RTHK: Japan's princess Mako marries university sweetheart

Japan's princess Mako married her university sweetheart on Tuesday, but it was a low-key union bereft of traditional rituals, with the couple voicing sadness over the controversy that haunted their engagement.

Under the rules of the imperial family, Emperor Naruhito's 30-year-old niece Mako gave up her royal title as she wed Kei Komuro, who is the same age and works for a US law firm.

"To me, Kei is irreplaceable. Our marriage is a necessary step for us to be able to protect our hearts," she told reporters after the marriage was registered.

"I have been scared, feeling sadness and pain whenever one-sided rumours turn into groundless stories," she added as the newlyweds read out rehearsed statements in a soberly decorated hotel function room.

Since announcing their engagement in 2017, the couple has faced tabloid scandals and vicious online sniping over allegations that Komuro's family had run into financial difficulties.

After much delay, they finally tied the knot with no wedding ceremony, reception banquet or any of the usual rites -- opting to do so privately, away from a public that has not always been kind.

Mako also turned down a large payment usually offered to royal women on their departure, reportedly up to 153 million yen (US$1.35 million), and they are now said to be planning a move to the United States.

Royals are held to exacting standards in Japan, and Mako has developed complex post-traumatic stress disorder because of the media attention, according to the Imperial Household Agency.

"I love Mako. We only get one life, and I want us to spend it with the one we love," Komuro said.

"I feel very sad that Mako has been in a bad condition, mentally and physically, because of the false accusations."

The couple did not answer questions from reporters verbally, to make the experience less stressful for Mako, the household said.

But in a document given to reporters, she said her condition was "not good".

Women in the imperial family cannot ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne, and lose their royal status when they marry a commoner. (AFP)

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South Africa: Parliament calls for improved balance of trade between SA and China

The Parliaments of South Africa and China have undertaken to strengthen their oversight role to ensure that democracy works to improve peoples lives in both countries.

Addressing the 5th Regular Exchange Mechanisms virtual session, National Assembly (NA) Speaker, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, praised the level of cooperation with which the two countries fought the COVID-19 pandemic.

The session was hosted by the National Peoples Congress (NPC) of China and led by Mapisa-Nqakula and the chairperson of the Standing Committee of the NPC, Li Zhanshu.

Mapisa-Nqakula said although trade improved significantly, more needs to be done to improve the balance of trade through heightening South Africas capacity for value addition and manufacturing, among others.

Both our countries have already recognised the current balance of trade between our two countries as untenable for the sustenance of mutually beneficial cooperation and agreed to address this, Mapisa-Nqakula said.

Mapisa-Nqakula called for more joint research and development, taking into account opportunities provided by the 4th Industrial Revolution (4IR), as well as greater efforts to address not just the COVID-19 pandemic, but other pandemics that were worsened by the pandemic, including poverty, inequality, and gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in South Africa.

Mapisa-Nqakula highlighted several areas where South Africa could learn from Chinas experiences. These include readiness to manage disasters beyond COVID-19, strengthening of public awareness, participation and outreach, including lessons in parliamentary broadcasting, as part of the broader communication strategy.

She further called for the review and improvement of the 15-year-old Memorandum of Understanding entered into in 2006 by the two Parliaments, enhancing the post-pandemic recovery strategies in a manner that eliminates the graphic inequalities exposed by COVID-19 pandemic, and strengthening performance-based oversight to accelerate the execution of the Bi-National Commissions Programme of Action.

Although the economies of China and South Africa are completely incomparable in size, the cooperation between the two countries recognises the current and untapped potential of each economy that can be developed for mutual and equal benefit, Mapisa-Nqakula said.

Li expressed his gratitude to South Africa for supporting China during the challenging times of the COVID-19 outbreak.

The two countries shared medical supplies and non-pharmaceutical products including masks, strategic collaboration in global development initiatives and multi-lateral platforms to ensure that changes made bring tangible results and a better quality of life to the people of both countries.

Zhanshu also highlighted various successes registered by China from which South Africa could learn lessons, including the elimination of absolute poverty within three decades.

The strategic partnership between the two countries resulted in China being the leading trading partner of South Africa for over a decade, while the two countries mutual trade relations and outcomes are leading in the African Continent, Zhanshu said.  SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa: Plans in place to address water woes in NW

North West Premier Bushy Maape says a number of steps have been taken to ensure that all residents of the province have access to water, both in the short and longer term.

Addressing the media on Monday, Maape, who was joined by Water and Sanitation Minister David Mahlobo, acknowledged that over the past week, the North West has experienced an escalation in challenges relating to the provision of water in certain areas of the province.

We recognise the impact that this has had on a number of communities, within the context that water is a basic right which is enshrined in the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, Maape said.

Mahlobo visited the province in order to provide leadership from the national department in tackling issues of water provision together with the provincial government and all role players.

Maape reported that a special meeting of the Inter-Departmental Water Task Team, which includes the provincial departments, National Water and Sanitation Department, Water Boards, and all municipalities in the province, was convened on Sunday.

This task team, which will serve as a War Room on Water, will ensure that the provincial government acts in the spirit of cooperative governance in tackling the issues of water provision in the province, Maape said.

The Premier said the short term approach is to firstly ensure that there is no community in any part of the province without immediate access to clean water, and in a number of instances, this will mean the provision of water through water tankering.

We do not see this as a long term solution but rather as a short term intervention while the necessary longer term sustainable provision of water is put in place. We recognise that there are a number of problems with water tinkering, and that is a water supply mechanism of last resort, the Premier said.

He said that a second element of approach is to ensure that the existing infrastructure is maintained and utilised to its full potential, while recognising that in certain areas, new infrastructure programmes are currently being implemented, particularly in the area of bulk water supply.

We are committed to ensuring that the current infrastructure for water provision is performing optimally and is well maintained and effectively operated.

Long term sustainability of water provision

While addressing the need for immediate access to water, the Premier said the provincial government is at the same time reviewing plans towards ensuring long term sustainability of water provision.

Mahlobo, together with several stakeholders at Ngaka Modiri Molema District Municipality, visited Mmabatho Water Treatment Plant on Monday, in order to gain first hand insight into the problems experienced by the facility over the past days.

Maape welcomed water restoration in Unit 3 and Unit 6, and Leopard Park within the Mahikeng area.

The provincial government has also instructed officials in the province, including the national departments, district and local municipalities, and the water board to come up with a plan which ensures sustainability and that water outages will be a thing of the past.

Some of the areas that were recently affected by inadequate water provision were being serviced by the Sedibeng Water Board, where there was a dispute with the municipalities over the payment of certain amounts. The MEC for Cooperative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs, Lena Miga had a session with municipalities, Sedibeng Water, Provincial Treasury and the Department of Water and Sanitation where a resolution was found to this issue, Maape said.

He said the province will continue to monitor the situation, in order to ensure that both short term interventions and longer term planning are on track.

Residents experiencing water problems should call the Water Hot Line at 0800 111 700.  SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa: Mpumalanga rapist, murderer handed three life sentences

Mpumalanga Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, has welcomed the triple life sentence and 53 years handed down to a rapist and murderer in Mbombela.

Mfanasibili Cornelius Mnisi, aged 29, was sentenced by the Mpumalanga Division of the High Court in Mbombela on Thursday.

Mnisi is said to have terrorised defenceless women between December 2011 and November 2015.

Provincial police spokesperson, Colonel Donald Mdhluli, said: The court heard how in December 2011, the accused took advantage of an 18-year-old woman after she lost contact with her friends at a certain tavern in Matsulu. Mnisi offered to take her home but detoured along the way and drove to his house with her and upon arrival, held her hostage and raped her at knifepoint.

He said the matter was reported to the police in Matsulu, where a case was opened and the docket was assigned to the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS) in Kanyamazane for further investigation.

Mnisi preyed on another woman, aged 29, in October 2014.

Mdhluli said the woman was on her way to catch a bus to work in the morning when Mnisi offered to give her a lift to the bus stop.

He instead took her to a secluded area where she was raped and strangled to death.

The accused then dumped her body in a river thereafter. Her body was later recovered by a member of the public, who alerted the police and a case was opened. [An] investigation [was] instituted, where a manhunt was launched for the suspect, he said.

In November 2015, the accused preyed on a 20-year-old woman when he invited her to visit him at Matsulu. Mnisi introduced the victim to one of his family members but later took her to a secluded area where he raped and strangled her until she was unconscious.

The accused thought that the woman was dead and as a result, dumped her in the Kruger National Park.

Mdhluli said the woman, however, later regained consciousness and found an opening in the fence where she got help from people at the nearby houses.

Police were informed about the incident and a case was opened, he said.

A team of detectives from the FCS Unit at Kanyamazane worked tirelessly to locate and arrest the suspect.

A breakthrough was made when they cornered Mnisi at Matsulu in November 2015, where he was charged accordingly.

Mnisi was given three life sentences on two counts of rape and on one count of murder. He was also sentenced to 10 years imprisonment for another separate count of rape. He was further handed 15 years imprisonment for robbery, plus an extra 15 years for another separate robbery.

For defeating the ends of justice, the accused was sentenced to three years imprisonment. Meanwhile, he received 10 years imprisonment for a count of attempted murder.

The accused was also found to be unfit to possess a firearm and his name will be entered into the Register of Sexual Offenders. The Provincial Commissioner further indicated that the police are elated with the collaborative effort made by the investigating team, the prosecution and the judiciary.  SAnews.gov.za

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Hong Kong: Alliance struck off from register

The Chief Executive-in-Council today ordered the Registrar of Companies to strike off the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China from the Companies Register pursuant to the Companies (Winding Up & Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance.

The order was made upon considering the matters set out in the Commissioner of Police's initial recommendation and relevant information, the Secretary for Security's views, as well as the representations submitted by the alliance and one of its directors.

According to the Constitution, the socialist system under the Communist Party of China's (CPC) leadership is the fundamental system of the People's Republic of China (PRC). The CPC exercises leadership over the body of central power and all state organs of the PRC.

Besides, Article 22 of the National Security Law prohibits subversion, which means organising, planning, committing or participating in, amongst others, the act of overthrowing or undermining the basic system of the PRC established by the Constitution and overthrowing its body of central power by force, threat of force or other unlawful means with the aim of subverting the state power.

The Chief Executive-in-Council said relevant evidence demonstrates that the alliance has always maintained and promoted its five operational goals, including "ending one-party dictatorship". The objective meaning of the goal, particularly when reading it in context against all relevant information, is to end the CPC's leadership.

The alliance has also been actively and persistently engaging in activities that promote its five operational goals, it noted.

The Chief Executive-in-Council agreed with the views of the Commissioner of Police and the Secretary for Security that the operation of the alliance which seeks to end the CPC's leadership amounts to seeking to overthrow the basic system of the PRC established by the Constitution with a view to subverting the PRC's state power.

This would inevitably threaten or undermine the PRC's ability to safeguard national security and to maintain public safety and order.

In all the circumstances, the Chief Executive-in-Council was satisfied that if the alliance was a society in respect of which the Societies Ordinance applied, it would be liable to have its operation or continued operation prohibited by the Secretary for Security under section 8 of the ordinance and that it is necessary in the interests of national security, public safety and order to prohibit the alliance's operation or continued operation.

The Government stressed that safeguarding national security is a matter of fundamental importance, adding the prohibition of the alliance's operation is a necessary and proportionate restriction on the rights to freedoms of association and of speech or expression.

It explained that there is a practical need to take speedy measures in accordance with the law to minimise the risks of endangering national security that the alliance may bring about, so as to effectively prevent and suppress the occurrence of relevant acts and activities as required under the National Security Law.

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South Africa: President launches first hybrid Toyota vehicle produced in SA

President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the launch of the local production of the Corolla Cross as an important step to South Africas path to transform the car-making business into a green industry success story.

It will take hard work but we must do it, the First Citizen told the delegates on Tuesday.

The President was speaking at the unveiling of the brand new Toyota South Africa production plant in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.

The President has since labelled the first-ever Toyota hybrid car made on home soil as a fine achievement and historic moment.

The Corolla Cross is the first generation of commercial-scale hybrid electric vehicles to come off a South African assembly line.

According to the President, this was more than simply a new model coming off a production line.

However, he said it was about the country embracing the opportunities of a greener economy, country and continent while ensuring that South Africa benefits.

South Africa is currently one of only seven global locations for the production of this hybrid car, which he believes is a testament to the skilled, productive workforce and competitive plant.

During the plant tour, I met workers who are passionate and committed and I saw the value of the skills programme the management has put in place.

The President announced that the Corolla Cross will be exported to 40 countries across Africa, which will boost the African Continental Free Trade Area.

I am advised that the company will seek to ramp up its projected 4 000 hybrid vehicles planned for next year if the availability of batteries improves.

Meanwhile, the President views the R2.6 billion investment by Japanese multinational automotive manufacturer as a vote of confidence.

In addition, he said Japan is a long-term and significant investor in the country, with about 130 companies operating locally, including Nissan, Isuzu and Sumitomo Rubber Industries.

He also thanked the company for the relentless support following the unrest in the province in July.

Companies who stand with the nation during difficult times are companies that we will support in the years to come.

He also acknowledged the unsung heroes of daily production, the workers, for making excellent, safe vehicles that the rest of the world can drive with confidence.

Jobs

Toyota has created 575 new jobs in the plant and a further 1 200 new jobs have been created in the supplier companies.

He said the auto industry is one of the drivers of our localisation programme and a significant contributor to gross domestic product, accounting for more than 100 000 jobs.

It is a big magnet for foreign direct investment.

He also revealed that the seven local light vehicle producers invested a record R9.2 billion in 2020, while the component sector invested R2.4 billion during the same period.

Masterplan

The President believes that these investments are made possible by an enabling policy regime in the form of the new version of the masterplan, the Automotive Production Development Programme, which came into effect in July 2021.

Through the masterplan, government aims to grow the industry over a 15-year period to reach 1% of global production.

In addition, the State is looking at increasing the local content of South African assembled vehicles to 60% from 40% and double employment to at least 224 000 jobs.

The plan seeks to transform the industry across the value chain to bring in Black South Africans and young people and to deepen value addition, said the President.

He added that Toyota was also looking at increasing the number of new local suppliers from the global supply chain, which is key in the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan.

I am advised that there are 56 local suppliers for this new model, of which 16 are Black-owned companies.

President Ramaphosa believes that these efforts will contribute to the common goal agreed to at the National Economic Development and Labour Council to reduce the countrys overall import bill by R200 billion over the next five years.

Climate action

The President said South Africa has identified three key priorities for climate action. These include Eskom reducing its carbon emissions, electric vehicles to be locally produced, and the green hydrogen economy to be fast-tracked.

Toyota South Africa CEO Andrew Kirby said the company has invested over R6.1 billion in the plant over the past five years.

So, we're therefore committed to further developing and strengthening our business in South Africa.

According to Kirby, Toyota South Africa also plans to change the New-Energy Vehicle (NEV) landscape in South Africa, from selling a few hundred to well over 10 000 units per year.  SAnews.gov.za

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South Africa: KZN Premier welcomes Tetra Pak's multi-million investment

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala has commended Swedish multinational food packaging and processing company, Tetra Pak, for its multi-million investment that will create new jobs in the wake of COVID-19 and related socio-economic challenges.

Tetra Pak South Africa announced the investment of approximately R500 million to upgrade the production capacity of its packaging material factory in Pinetown, Durban.

The investment will go towards upgrading and increasing the production capability of their packaging material factory located at the plant in Pinetown.

Speaking at the event, Zikalala said the announcement of the investment confirms a long-term commitment to KwaZulu-Natal, and showcases South Africa as a key manufacturing hub, with the capacity in infrastructure and skills to serve all the Southern Africa markets.

We welcome this injection of half a billion rand into our economy, which will certainly foster economic growth and boost much-needed jobs in the province. At a time when the global economy is hard-hit by the COVID-19 pandemic, the provincial government is pleased that Tetra Paks investment will safeguard approximately 120 jobs, with an additional minimum of 20 new technical professionals to be employed.

We are also excited about Tetra Paks long-term vision [and] from this current production location, the company is seeking to position itself as an export hub for South Africa and a platform for growth on our wider continent.

KwaZulu-Natal has mounted an energetic, diplomatic engagement to invite investment into our province to create jobs and safeguard livelihoods, Zikalala said.

The Premier said the Tetra Pak investment adds strength and vigour to the harmonious fraternal relations between Sweden and South Africa.

We located this investment within the objectives of the KwaZulu-Natal Economic Recovery and Transformation Plan, which is working to cushion the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the economy and livelihoods.

Operation Vula Fund

In order to bring the black majority in the mainstream economy and reduce race based and gender-based poverty and inequality, the Premier said the provincial government launched Operation Vula Fund as the cornerstone of the KwaZulu-Natal Economic Recovery and Transformation Plan.

In June 2021, equipment with a combined value of R300 million was disbursed to more than 1 000 Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), and no less than 42% of the successful applicants were youth-owned businesses.

Funding was also approved to 447 women-owned businesses, which represents 43% of the total successful applications lodged with Operation Vula Fund.

The provincial government is also implementing the policy of 30% set aside for women, youth and black-owned SMMEs. It is further implementing the targets on local procurement, with 35% allocated to the youth, 30% women, 5% people with disabilities, and 60% allocated to Africans.

Working with a country like Sweden and a company like Tetra Pak, we are confident that we can grow the provincial economy, create employment, and lift the living standards of all our people, black and white.

Our government has a carefully conceived programme of radical socio-economic transformation that is being implemented on a daily basis with demonstrable results. Our task is to help support skills development, attain policy certainty, remove red tape, fight crime and protect investments, Zikalala said.

Tetra Pak Southern Africa Managing Director, Stefan Fagerang, said the Pinetown investment is about increasing the local content of its manufactured product by 50% to 80%.

The investment also supports the company's commitment to be carbon neutral by 2030 and its ability to serve the Southern African market, Fagerang said.

Tetra Pak Pinetown factory director, Muhammad Waqas Ali, said with the new state of the art plant, if a customer needs to respond to market changes, we will be able to accommodate such changes with a quick turnaround.  SAnews.gov.za

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RTHK: Cambodia to reopen tourist spots to jabbed visitors

Foreign tourists will soon roam Cambodia's ancient Angkor Wat temples once again, after officials on Tuesday flagged a partial reopening to vaccinated travellers.

The coronavirus pandemic and travel restrictions put the brakes on Cambodia's burgeoning tourism industry  revenue plummeted to US$1 billion last year, down from nearly US$5 billion in 2019 when the country attracted 6.6 million visitors.

The Cambodian tourism ministry on Tuesday announced a November 30 reopening for popular beach spots Sihanoukville and the island of Koh Rong, as well as Dara Sakor  a Chinese-developed resort zone.

The northern city of Siem Reap  gateway to the world heritage-listed Angkor Wat complex  will be added to the kingdom's hotel quarantine-free travel scheme in January.

More than two million visitors wandered the archaeological park in 2019, but the world-famous attraction has been mostly deserted since the pandemic took hold.

Foreign travellers will require certificates showing they have been double-vaccinated, health insurance covering treatment for Covid-19, and negative swab tests prior to departure and upon arrival in the country, the tourism ministry said.

Tourists must remain for a minimum of five days at the pilot locations and undergo a further swab test before being allowed to explore other parts of Cambodia.

The kingdom was spared the worst of the pandemic in 2020 but has registered the lion's share of its 118,000 infections since April.

The Southeast Asian country won praise for its swift vaccination programme  96 per cent of the adult population is fully jabbed.

Cambodia's tourism reboot has taken some inspiration from neighbouring Thailand's "Phuket sandbox" hotel quarantine-free travel scheme which kicked off in July, attracting more than 56,000 international arrivals to the island. (AFP)

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RTHK: China's climate envoy to meet EU counterpart

China's top climate envoy Xie Zhenhua will meet European Union green policy chief Frans Timmermans face-to-face for the first time on Wednesday ahead of the COP26 summit, as pressure grows for tougher action to curb global warming.

A pledge from China to reduce emissions faster this decade is seen as crucial for the world to have a realistic shot at meeting the Paris Agreement's target to cap warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius and avert the worst impacts of climate change.

With President Xi Jinping not expected to attend, some climate watchers are concerned that the world's biggest CO2 producer does not plan on unveiling a new pledge at the United Nations event in Scotland.

But while Xi has not travelled outside China since before the pandemic, he has made three major climate announcements on the international stage, including a pledge at last month's UN general assembly to stop funding coal plants abroad.

At their meeting scheduled to take place in London on Wednesday, Xie and Timmermans will "go through the latest developments and see where we all stand in these last few days before the COP26 officially begins," an EU official said.

The 27 countries of the EU were among 143 to increase their climate pledges this year, out of the nearly 200 that signed the Paris accord. The EU has committed, in law, to cut net emissions at least 55 percent from 1990 levels by 2030 and hit net zero by 2050.

China is among the major emitters that has yet to submit a new climate target. It has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2060 and stop increasing its emissions before 2030, although it has not pinned down a date by which its emissions will peak.

"We hope that China would make an ambitious announcement on peaking out and we hope China would also make ambitious announcement on investing in renewables to replace, especially, coal," Timmermans said this month.

"It makes a huge difference, when they say 'before 2030', whether that's 2025 or 2029," Timmermans said, adding that faster emissions cuts from China would have a "huge positive impact" on the Paris Agreement targets. (Reuters)

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RTHK: Queen Elizabeth to stay away from climate summit

Britain's Queen Elizabeth has pulled out of the COP26 conference in Glasgow next week after she was advised by doctors to rest, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday, in a blow to the United Nations climate summit.

A palace source said the decision to not attend had been taken as a "sensible precaution" and to let everyone know in advance. The queen remains in good spirits and wants COP26 to be a success, the source added.

"Following advice to rest, The Queen has been undertaking light duties at Windsor Castle," Buckingham Palace said. "Her Majesty has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the Evening Reception of COP26 on Monday, 1st November."

The 95-year-old queen, the world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch, stayed overnight in hospital last Wednesday after undergoing "preliminary investigations" for an unspecified but not Covid-19 related ailment.

She carried out her first official engagement since the hospital stay earlier on Tuesday, holding two virtual audiences to welcome the new ambassadors to Britain from South Korea and Switzerland.

Elizabeth, who is queen of 15 other realms including Australia, Canada and New Zealand and next year celebrates 70 years on the throne, is known for her robust health and still carrying out many public duties.

News of the cancellation is likely to raise concerns about her health. She was recently overheard saying she was irritated by world leaders who talk about climate change but do nothing to tackle it.

The queen had been due to attend an evening event next Monday at the conference where world leaders will meet including US President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. (Reuters)

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Tropical depression heads toward

Tropical depression heads towards south-central Vietnam

A tropical depression moving towards south-central Vietnam is likely to increase its strength in the next 24 hours, the National Centre for Hydro Meteorological Forecasting (NCHMF) reported on October 26.

Tropical depression moving towards south-central Vietnam (Photo: VNA).

The tropical depression is forecast to dump heavy rain on coastal localities from Thua Thien Hue to Binh Thuan, plus the Central Highlands and Southeastern regions, the NCHMF said.

In the early morning on October 26, the depression was about 310km off the coast of south central Khanh Hoa province, packing winds of 50kph near its centre.

In the next 36 hours, it is forecast to move in the west-northwest direction at a speed of 10kph-15kph, hit south-central localities and weaken into a low pressure area.

Heavy downpours will be reported in the regions, with rainfall likely to climb as high as 300mm.

Weather experts warned coastal and mountainous localities of severe flooding and landslides when the tropical depression makes landfall.

On October 25, the Prime Minister ordered localities in the central region, ministries, and sectors to take swift actions to address flooding consequences and gear up for the approaching tropical depression.

An official dispatch issued by the PM noted that incessant rains have occurred in central provinces over the past days, especially from October 22 to 24 in Thua Thien - Hue, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, and Binh Dinh provinces, causing floods and landslides and isolating certain areas.

While some rivers in the region are still in full spate and several areas remain submerged, a tropical depression in the East Sea/South China Sea is moving towards the mainland, likely to intensify into a storm, and may continue triggering downpours in the areas from Da Nang city to Binh Thuan province, as well as the Central Highlands.

To cope with the tropical depression, protect peoples lives, and quickly address flood aftermath, the PM requested the administrations of the localities from Quang Tri to Binh Thuan and those in the Central Highlands to promptly make preparations for the depression, with a focus on ensuring safety for boats and vessels at sea and taking actions to guarantee peoples safety in case of serious flooding.

Meanwhile, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, and Thua Thien - Hue provinces were told to swiftly deal with flood aftermath.

The National Steering Committee for Natural Disaster Prevention and Control was asked to direct the timely implementation of appropriate response measures so as to minimise losses, according to the dispatch.

Source: NDO
News  Vietnam

Coffee exports record four-year high
Putin: Al-Assad open to Russian backing of Syrian rebels groups

Syrian President Bashar al-Assad would allow Russia to simultaneously support his embattled regime and the opposition groups fighting inside his country, President Vladimir Putin said Thursday.

GALLERY

A handout frame grab from a video footage made available on the official website of the Russian Defence Ministry on 21 October 2015 shows an aerial view of bomb explosion after airstrike carried out by a Russian warplane against what Russian Defence Minitry says a terrorist militant group position in Aleppo province in Syria. Russia in September began a bombing campaign against militant groups in Syria to support al-Assads government, one of Russias closest allies in the Middle East.

Moscow (dpa) - Putin said al-Assad was "positive" toward the prospect of Russia giving aid to Syrian rebels who are fighting the Islamic State militant group, which controls wide areas of the country."I asked him what his attitude will be if ... we support (rebel) efforts in the fight against terrorists like (Russia helps) the Syrian Army. He said he was positive about that," Putin said, according to Russias TASS news agency.Al-Assad flew to Moscow for talks Tuesday with his long-time ally, his first trip abroad in more than four years since the outbreak of insurgencies in Syria.Putins proposal comes as Moscow faces criticism that its recently launched military campaign in Syria serves mainly to bolster al-Assad by targeting moderate rebels groups - not extremist militias such as the Islamic State group.Russian Foreign Minister Segei Lavrov will meet Friday in Vienna with US Secretary of State John Kerry to discuss the Syria conflict.A US-led military coalition has been striking Islamic State forces and other extremists since September 2014.In comments made while meeting with political and business leaders at the Valdai International Discussion Club in the Black Sea resort city of Sochi, Russia, Putin said three weeks of Russian air and missile strikes in Syria are "bringing encouraging results," but much work was left to be done.The United States has repeatedly called for al-Assad to step down, arguing that his departure is key to ending four and a half years of armed conflict, which arose from peaceful anti-government protests in 2011. More than 250,000 people have died in the conflict, according to UN estimates.Putin once again rejected the US position. "How can we from the outside make decisions and raise questions on whether or not the leader of a foreign country should stay in power?" he asked.The emphasis should not be a political transition away from al-Assad but on battlefield success, Putin said.A military victory "does not eliminate all problems, but it can create conditions for a political process with the participation of all healthy, patriotic forces in Syrian society," Putin said in Sochi, the Interfax news agency reported.
Firs autumn rime falls on Shennongjia forest

Ecns.cn) 17:54, October 25, 2021

Rime decorates Shennongjia Nature Reserve in central China's Hubei Province.(Photo: China News Service/Lei Tao)

The high-altitude mountainous area of Shennongjia Nature Reserve recorded its first snow this autumn.

The reserve enjoys a forest coverage as high as 91 percent, making it one of 14 major regions in China for biodiversity protection of global significance. It is also one of the 25 biodiversity hot-spot regions globally.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Bianji)
Chinese painting renders cats on rice paper

(People's Daily App) 17:58, October 25, 2021

How wonderful is it to draw a cat on Chinese rice paper? The haloed ink perfectly depicts the fluffiness of the cat's fur, and the unique layering of the Chinese painting outlines the cat's colors.

With a few simple strokes of the brush, the ink blurs the moment the nib touches the paper, and a cat takes shape. Different shapes and sizes of brushes are dipped in various colors of ink to create the cat. The final stroke of white in the cat's eyes gives the cat an instantly recognizable charm.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Bianji)
Xi pledges enhanced coordination with UN for balanced, inclusive global development

Xinhua) 08:10, October 26, 2021

Chinese President Xi Jinping meets with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres via video link at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 25, 2021. (Xinhua/Zhai Jianlan)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres via video link, vowing to enhance coordination with the UN to work for a new stage of balanced, coordinated and inclusive global development.

Noting Monday marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat in the UN, Xi said the commemorative conference held by China is for reviewing the eventful course jointly covered by China and the UN and forging a better world together from a new historical starting point.

Xi said history has proven time and time again no matter how powerful a country is, it cannot dictate other countries by way of hegemony and, still less, dominate the world. In face of regional hotspot issues, we must abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, respect the people's will of the involved countries, and resort to a political settlement, he added.

Xi said there is only one system, one order and one set of rules in the world, and all countries should act within this framework, rather than do whatever suits them. For major countries, they should respect each other, coexist peacefully and work for mutual benefit on a win-win basis, which serves the common interests of the international community.

Noting the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted development and people's livelihoods in all countries, especially the developing countries, Xi pointed out we should attach importance to and get work well done in both the joint pandemic response and the economic recovery.

He urged stepping up anti-pandemic assistance to developing countries, as well as fair and reasonable distribution of vaccines globally to help make vaccines global public goods.

China is ready to enhance coordination with the UN to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, address development predicament in developing countries, help implement the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, and work for a new stage of balanced, coordinated and inclusive global development, Xi said.

He urged countries to actively implement the Paris Agreement, abide by the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, faithfully implement their respective responsibilities of emission reduction, and help developing countries accelerate economic transformation.

China will honor its words with deeds as it has announced nationally determined measures to respond to climate change, Xi said.

Noting the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Second UN Global Sustainable Transport Conference, jointly held by China and the UN, have rallied new consensus on sustainable development, Xi said China will support the biodiversity protection cause in developing countries.

Xi stressed an important experience from the 50 years of cooperation between China and the UN is that we should hold fast to the UN ideals, stay committed to multilateralism, and earnestly contribute to world peace and development. China is ready to work with all countries, united under the UN flag, to forge a community of a shared future for humanity, said Xi.

For his part, Guterres congratulated the People's Republic of China on the restoration of a lawful seat in the UN on Oct. 25 50 years ago, and thanked China for supporting the UN's work and playing a major role in promoting world peace and development, adding unilateralism is totally unacceptable.

He also voiced the UN's appreciation for China's key role in poverty reduction, climate change response, biodiversity protection and promoting COVID-19 vaccines as global public goods, adding the UN is willing to enhance cooperation with China on the Global Development Initiative.

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, attended the meeting.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Key insights into China's current economic situation

Xinhua) 08:27, October 26, 2021

Aerial photo shows the morning view of the Lujiazui area in Pudong, east China's Shanghai. (Xinhua/Ren Long)

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- As 2021 marks the beginning of China's 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), as well as the start of its journey to fully build itself into a modern socialist country, the nation's economic performance has come under the spotlight.

How is China's economy doing so far? Are there any new situations emerging, or existing issues left unresolved? With the pandemic and economic trend becoming more complicated, where is the world's second-largest economy heading?

In response to the significant attention to and concerns over the Chinese economy from both home and abroad, Xinhua has interviewed a number of authoritative departments and individuals, and the following are some of their opinions and judgments on 10 issues of China's economy.

GROWTH MOMENTUM

China's GDP grew 4.9 percent year on year in the third quarter, slower than its growth of 18.3 percent in the first quarter and 7.9 percent in the second quarter. In the first three quarters, the country logged a 9.8 percent GDP expansion, well above its annual growth target of over 6 percent, official data shows.

The growth slowdown was the result of challenges including a resurgence of COVID-19 cases and severe flooding in certain regions, as well as a higher comparison basis in the same period last year, according to authorities.

China is fully capable of achieving its social and economic development goals for the whole year, and the sound momentum of economic development for the long-run has remained unchanged, they told Xinhua

DOMESTIC DEMAND

China's retail sales of consumer goods jumped 16.4 percent year on year in the first three quarters of 2021, slower than the 23 percent seen in the first half. The country's fixed-asset investment increased 7.3 percent year on year, down from 12.6 percent in the first six months.

Despite the falling growth, China has staying power in domestic demand expansion supported by a super-scale market of over 1.4 billion people, effective policies to boost consumption, and has seen steady progress in the country's major projects set for the 14th Five-Year Plan period.

In the first three quarters, final consumption contributed 64.8 percent to China's economic growth, 3.1 percentage points higher than the level seen in the first half, according to official data.

FOREIGN TRADE

China's foreign trade staged a stellar performance in the first three quarters, with total imports and exports expanding 22.7 percent year on year to 28.33 trillion yuan (about 4.43 trillion U.S. dollars), beating market expectations and playing a bigger part in driving growth.

Considering factors including a high base in the second half of 2020, the country's foreign trade is likely to grow at a slower pace compared to a year ago, presenting a "high-to-low" curve.

But authorities estimate orders for key foreign trade enterprises will remain sufficient until the second quarter of next year. Imports and exports are therefore expected to sustain steady growth this year.

SUPPLY-SIDE STRUCTURAL REFORM

Since the start of this year, high-quality development has become a more distinctive hallmark of China's growth, with the country's economy seeing optimized structures, improved development quality and stronger growth momentum.

Structural reform has been pressing ahead in a sound manner, as manifested in the steady industrial capacity utilization rate, the declining asset-liability ratio of enterprises, and rapidly expanding investment in weak links such as education and healthcare.

Despite the progress achieved, authorities have cautioned that an excessive production capacity may occur, as other countries will gradually reopen their factories at home, leading to a pullback in China's exports.

Coping with the challenges faced by China's economic growth requires an unswerving focus on economic restructuring. At a key meeting held in July, China's policymakers pledged to tighten the power use limit on energy-intensive industries, saying that steps will be taken to refrain from using the property sector as a short-term economic stimulus and to speed up the development of affordable rental housing.

POWER SUPPLY

Since mid-September, power supply across the country has been tight, reflecting the unbalanced supply and demand of energy, especially coal. Power cuts occurred in certain areas from Sept. 23 to 26, causing widespread concern in society.

To cope with the situation, the National Development and Reform Commission said in a series of announcements that it would take necessary measures, including legal intervention in coal prices, to bring the coal market back to rationality and ensure a stable supply of energy.

The National Energy Administration recently announced that it will promote the integration of new energy power generation projects and further improve the power supply capacity.

An improved pricing mechanism for coal-fired power was also released to deepen market-oriented pricing reform in the sector.

GLOBAL INDUSTRIAL, SUPPLY CHAINS

As certain countries act against globalization and the COVID-19 pandemic sweeps across the world, the stability of the global industrial chain and the smooth flow of the global supply chain are confronted with unprecedented challenges.

Thanks to China's timely containment of COVID-19, the stable operations of industrial and supply chains have been secured, and the layouts of multinational companies have increased.

Statistics show that more than 90 percent of foreign companies in China operate mainly in the Chinese market. With a population of 1.4 billion and over 400 million middle-incomers, China has a consumer market of unparalleled size and growth potential.

In addition, the comprehensive advantages of complete industrial facilities, complete infrastructure and abundant human resources have become magnets for foreign investment.

The double-digit year-on-year growth in foreign direct investment into the Chinese mainland in actual use in the January-September period has also confirmed this trend, highlighting that China remains one of the best investment destinations in the world.

Making industrial and supply chains more autonomous and controllable does not require a closed and inward-looking mindset. Rather, it means opening up to a higher level and strengthening overall competitiveness through opening-up and cooperation.

COMMON PROSPERITY

Since the beginning of the year, China has taken a slew of measures to promote common prosperity. While attracting high attention, the term has been misinterpreted by some as "robbing the rich to help the poor."

Rather than having just a few prosperous people, common prosperity, which is an essential requirement of socialism, refers to affluence shared by everyone, physically and intellectually.

China has been gradually placing common prosperity in a more prominent position since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012. Now, having achieved victory in the anti-poverty fight and in the construction of a moderately prosperous society in all respects, the country has favorable conditions to promote common prosperity.

In pursuit of this goal, efforts will be made to properly deal with the relationship between efficiency and fairness, make basic institutional arrangements for income distribution, expand the size of the middle-income group, increase the earnings of low-income groups, adjust excessive incomes, and prohibit illicit incomes to promote social fairness and justice.

ANTI-MONOPOLY

China has unveiled a series of regulatory measures to rein in certain monopolized sectors and the disorderly expansion of capital. These are pragmatic and necessary efforts to promote the sound development of related industries as well as social fairness.

The anti-monopoly measures target illegal acts, rather than the private sector or companies of any specific ownership type.

Thanks to these moves, the flow of capital has seen new trends, with sci-tech innovation, high-tech manufacturing and the industrial internet being new fields that attract capital.

China has been widely recognized as one of the leading nations in the digital economy, meaning it needs more relevant regulations to promote the sound development of related sectors.

RURAL VITALIZATION

After a complete victory in eradicating absolute poverty, China's focus in work related to agriculture, rural areas and rural residents has shifted to comprehensively promoting rural vitalization.

How to prevent a large-scale return to poverty and deliver the rural vitalization strategy has attracted much attention at home and abroad.

The full implementation of the strategy requires stronger top-level design and measures, and more concerted efforts.

Efforts should be made to ensure the country's grain output remains above 650 million tonnes, solve the two key issues, namely seed and arable land, and secure a good start for rural and agricultural modernization, according to authorities.

FINANCIAL RISK PREVENTION

It is important to accurately judge the current financial risk situation as China has seen increased downward pressure in economy, risks and challenges at home and abroad, and debt risks in some enterprises since the second half of the year.

After years of hard work, the country has made great progress in preventing and defusing major financial risks, and has prevented systemic financial risks.

Authorities have noted that while there are individual issues in the real estate market, the risks are generally under control.

The country's top legislature has just adopted a decision to authorize the State Council to pilot property tax reforms in certain regions.

The move aims to advance property tax legislation and reform in an active and prudent manner, guide rational housing consumption and the economical and intensive use of land resources, and facilitate the steady and sound development of the country's property market, according to the decision.

The reasonable capital demand of the property market is being met and the overall trend of healthy development in the real estate market will not change, according to authorities.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
After solar conjunction, China's Mars rover Zhurong continues adventures

Xinhua) 08:36, October 26, 2021

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- China's first Mars rover Zhurong, which lost contact with Earth for about a month during the solar conjunction, has sent back a signal from a distance of 400 million km stating that it is in a normal condition.

During the solar conjunction, when Mars and Earth move to either side of the Sun and the three are almost perfectly aligned, the solar electromagnetic radiation increases, disrupting and even jamming the communications between the Mars probes and Earth.

ADVENTUROUS ROVER

The design team cared about Zhurong just like people care about a child who has gone away to summer camp, said Jin Shengyi, the deputy chief designer for teleoperation subsystem of Zhurong from the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST).

"We cared about Zhurong, but we have full confidence in it. When we designed it, we took all possible situations into account," said Jin.

Chen Baichao, the chief designer of Zhurong from CAST, said it would be very difficult to keep a spacecraft in a normal condition for such a long time without ground control. But Zhurong has autonomous systems designed to cope with the solar conjunction and winter on Mars.

According to Chen, the rover has traveled more than 1,000 meters since it landed on Mars at the southern part of Utopia Planitia in May 2021. After the solar conjunction, it will head south to find mud volcanoes, which scientists are interested in, located about 10 km away.

Before Zhurong, five American rovers had landed on Mars. Although a latecomer, Zhurong has a unique innovation: it is the first Mars rover equipped with active suspension.

The idea of active suspension came from Chen, who has a background in ground vehicle engineering.

"Mars has a complex terrain with soft sand and rocks all over it, and we are worried that the rover will sink in the sand. Active suspension allows the rover to crawl out of a trap like a worm. It can also walk sideways like a crab, flexibly avoid obstacles and climb slopes at steep angles," said Chen.

With a height of 1.85 meters and a weight of 240 kg, Zhurong can travel at a speed of 200 meters per hour on Mars, which is similar to that of China's lunar rover Yutu-2. But Zhurong has traveled more than 1,000 meters in over three months, faster than Yutu-2 has done in two years.

"Zhurong, with a good memory, is more capable and more reliable. It can endure both cold and hot environments, so it can travel faster and farther," said Chen.

Originally, ground control made a plan for Zhurong to conduct environment perception, scientific detection and movement tasks over a three-day cycle. However, this was later changed to a one-day cycle. Zhurong has so far remained stable and executed the orders well.

In the eyes of Jia Yang, deputy chief designer of the Tianwen-1 probe from CAST, the rover is like an adventurous boy who is working diligently to get more results before the Martian winter.

Mars is far away from Earth, and the one-way communication between the rover and ground control takes about 20 minutes. So ground control is not able to implement timely operation of the rover.

The designers gave Zhurong the ability to deal with complex problems autonomously. As a smart rover, it only communicates with Earth once or twice a day. It can plan its own path and avoid obstacles, and can decide when to sleep and wake up, depending on environmental changes.

"Communication between the rover and the orbiter starts when the orbiter flies over the rover, so timing is very important. If space particles cause malfunctions of the rover's onboard computer, it will disturb the rover's time system," said Jia.

"We designed a set of algorithms for Zhurong to calculate time based on the trajectory of sunlight, just like survival in the wild."

SURVIVING ON MARS

Strong winds, rocky surfaces and sand storms -- the environment on Mars is much harsher than that on Earth. However, the designers have optimized the rover's ability to survive in the Martian environment.

According to Jia, the accumulation of Martian dust on the solar wings of the rover can affect the efficiency of power generation. "Due to the special design of the solar wings, the dust falling on them will be easily blown away by the wind, just like drops of water blown from the leaves of a lotus," he said.

Chen Baichao said the initial design of Zhurong featured only two solar wings. The designers wanted larger solar panels and they brought out more than 10 solutions, such as bat-like folding wings and flexible solar wings.

Chen was inspired by the wings of blue morpho butterfly, and decided to design the rover's wings like those of a butterfly, unfolding in two stages.

The designers also installed a heat-collecting device on the top of Zhurong, the first of its kind used in a rover, to keep it warm at night.

The device uses a chemical called n-undecane to store heat energy. During the day, the substance absorbs heat and melts, and when the temperature drops at night, it releases heat in the process of solidification to keep the rover warm.

The light on Mars is another challenge. "The light is unstable on Mars, and there is scattered light. We had no idea how much it would contribute to solar-wing power generation," said Chen.

After a year of experimenting and research, the designers established a theoretical model of solar-power generation on Mars. Now they can infer weather conditions on the planet from this model.

CHINESE FOOTPRINTS

Zhurong has left Chinese footprints in the sand of the red planet. Inscribed on the surface of the rover's rear wheels is the Chinese character "Zhong" -- the first character of the word Zhongguo, which means China. The character "Zhong" is imprinted in the two ruts made by the rover as it travels across the surface of Mars.

"We carved Zhong on the wheel surfaces not just for symbolic purposes, but also for technical reasons. We can measure the slip ratio of the rover by the distance between the Zhong characters," said Jia.

The circumference of the wheel is one meter. If the distance between the Zhong characters is one meter, it indicates that the rover is running normally. If the distance is obviously shorter, it means that the rover is skidding and may sink in the sand.

"When we designed the rover, we did a lot of brainstorming to learn from every way of thinking. We want not only a powerful rover that can work normally on the surface of Mars, but also a beautiful rover that can represent the highest level of Chinese space engineering."

After the rover was completed, the designers wanted to use Chinese cultural elements to make it more beautiful. The artist Su Dabao created a pattern featuring the Chinese character "fire" using a combination of Chinese calligraphy and seal cutting. The decorative pattern was installed on the "head" of the rover before it was launched.

"Zhurong gives us a Martian view of our solar system, a deeper understanding of the universe, and has inspired us to ponder the old questions: Who am I? Where do I come from? Where will I go?" said Jia.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Online dialogue between Chinese, U.S. Gen-Zers held in SW China's Yunnan

09:01, October 26, 2021 By Zhang Mengxu ( People's Daily

The Generation Z China-U.S. Youth Dialogue was hosted in Malipo county, southwest China's Yunnan province on Oct. 18.

The online event, hosted by the China Public Diplomacy Association, offered an opportunity for Chinese and American youngsters to have a deeper understanding of each other.

The Generation Z China-U.S. Youth Dialogue is hosted, Oct. 18. (Photo courtesy of the Chinese Embassy to the U.S.)

Over 50 youngsters had a conversation covering a wide range of topics, such as China's national treasury, American cities that house pandas, as well as the host city of the 2028 Olympic Games.

Chinese Ambassador to the U.S. Qin Gang attended and delivered a speech via video. He noted that a bright future should be made with the capability of understanding and inclusiveness. China and the U.S. are two major countries whose total population adds up to 1.7 billion, and how the two peoples get along with each other concerns the future of the entire human race, he stressed.

Andrew Cap, a young man from the U.S., shared his experience of being an English tutorial in a remote mountainous village in southwest China's Guizhou province last year.

The young man, who went to the village on vacation from Shenzhen, a metropolis in south China's Guangdong province, became the most liked tutorial by the local students soon after he arrived there. To build a joyful environment of English learning for the local students was the aim of the optimistic and funny guy.

In order to understand what the students said, he learned Chinese every day and has built a profound relationship with them. After he returned to Shenzhen, he made the experience into a video clip and shared it on social media, which received over 500,000 "likes."

He said what he saw there were not only the diligence and curiosity of the students, but also the similarities of the youth from both the U.S. and China - optimism and the love for life.

" I honestly think conversations are the key to better relations, because when we really hear each other talk from the heart, we realize no matter what country you come from, we are all human." said Cap, adding that the young people can accomplish so much more working together.

American high school student Warner Hartnett said China's profound culture and long history impressed him very much. After learning Chinese, he made many Chinese friends, and he said he was glad to communicate with more Chinese youngsters on this platform. He hoped that the young people from both countries could visit each other after the pandemic.

Joe Cobb, a member of the Roanoke City Council in the U.S. State of Virginia, recalled his visit to China in 2018 when he held a pleasant conversation with the teachers and students in Yunnan province. He said the pandemic has brought challenges to international exchanges, hoping the young generations of the U.S. and China could be committed to their mutual friendship, overcome difficulties and continue developing the friendship between the two countries.

The two countries have different perspectives as they vary in history and culture, but they share many similarities, Qin said, explaining that both of the two peoples aspire for a better life and feel the same human emotions. He remarked that the Chinese and Americans should communicate with and listen to each other based on mutual respect and with an inclusive mindset calling on the youngsters to build a more solid bridge for the friendship between China and the U.S.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
Chinese miracle derives from the leadership of the CPC: Chief of Mexicos Labor Party

09:09, October 26, 2021 By Liu Xuxia ( People's Daily

Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC), the Chinese people have made a chain of remarkable achievements and the country has realized leapfrog development, said Alberto Anaya Gutierrez, president of the Labor Party of Mexico, in a recent interview with Peoples Daily.

Since the 1990s, Anaya has visited China for over 10 times. According to the political leader, he has been to many Chinese cities, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Wuhan, where he saw row upon row of skyscrapers, criss-cross roads as well as diversified application scenarios of digital technologies. Chinas tremendous development achievements prove that its reform and opening-up is indeed a scientific policy, he noted.

During his trips to China, Anaya paid visits to car factory, wind power equipment plant, and toy factory, among other facilities. He was really impressed by the widely used automatic production equipment at factories and considered it a mirror of Chinas strong manufacturing capacity and innovation vitality.

China has become a front runner in the world in cutting-edge technologies, especially such fields as 5G communication, robotics, biology, satellite communication, high-speed rail, network and computer information technology, and has opened up new prospects for development, Anaya said.

He believes that technologies have made life easier for the Chinese people. I once took a maglev train, which ran as fast as over 400 kilometers per hour, to the Shanghai Pudong International Airport. It was such a wonderful experience, he recalled, adding that the maglev train was fast and steady just like Chinas development.

The reason why the CPC, a century-old major party, has continuously achieved successes and maintained vitality is that it has always prioritized the interests of the people, empathized and worked with them, and strived for their well-being and better life, Anaya pointed out.

He has read carefully Chinese President Xi Jinpings book Xi Jinping: The Governance of China and found the Chinese leaders ideas, including upholding and strengthening the CPCs overall leadership, advancing high-quality economic development, promoting harmonious coexistence between man and Nature and jointly building a community with a shared future for mankind, really impressive.

The Chinese miracle derives from the leadership of the CPC, said Anaya, adding that China has achieved its poverty alleviation goals on schedule and built a moderately prosperous society in all respects, which provides precious experience in addressing the problem of poverty for other countries and political parties in the world.

Anaya believes that Xis ideas on governance are exerting a profound influence in the world.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) proposed by Xi, which involves not only economic cooperation but many other aspects for the purpose of achieving common development and prosperity, has facilitated trade and exchanges among countries, advanced infrastructure construction and manufacturing in countries participating in the initiative, and benefited the employment and well-being of peoples around the world, said Anaya, who noted that Latin American and Caribbean countries have actively participated in the BRI construction and reaped tangible fruits.

Noting that China has successfully curbed the COVID-19 pandemic and actively assisted other countries in fighting against the virus, Anaya said China shared its anti-pandemic experience with Mexico and airlifted medical supplies to the latter. Such actions demonstrated Chinas sense of responsibility as a major country, he said.

The Labor Party of Mexico and the CPC have maintained friendly relations and reached a consensus on respecting each other and strengthening dialogues and cooperation, said Anaya, adding that the Mexican political party is willing to deepen inter-party communication with the CPC to continuously drive forward the China-Mexico comprehensive strategic partnership.

The Labor Party should learn from the CPCs spirit of overcoming difficulties and working hard as well as its determination and efforts to combat corruption and build a clean government, and Mexico should learn from Chinas precious experience in formulating long-term plans for driving national development, according to him.

As an influential major party in the world, the CPC has always been committed to strengthening dialogues and cooperation with political parties in other countries and promoting the construction of a community with a shared future for mankind, Anaya pointed out.

It is believed that China, under the leadership of the CPC, will continue to play an important role in safeguarding world peace and advancing the development of humanity, he said.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Liang Jun)
71th anniv. of CPV army entering DPRK in War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea commemorated

Xinhua) 09:49, October 26, 2021

Li Man mourns for his brother Li Zhengming, who died during the 1950-53 Korean War, at the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) martyrs' cemetery in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province, Oct. 25, 2021. A commemoration ceremony was held on Monday in memory of the 71th anniversary of the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) army entering the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea. Representatives of CPV veterans and family members of CPV martyrs attended the ceremony. (Xinhua/Yang Qing)

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
Commentary: A staunch standard-bearer of true multilateralism

Xinhua) 10:01, October 26, 2021

Photo taken on Sept. 14, 2020 shows the United Nations (UN) flag flying outside the UN headquarters in New York, the United States. (Xinhua/Wang Ying)

Should modern history and contemporary reality be a guide, multilateralism is the only viable way forward.

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- "Both climate change and COVID-19 have shown us that we, as a species, as humanity, we can survive only through multilateralism."

This emphatic and shrewd observation was made by Abdulla Shahid, president of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), in an exclusive interview with Xinhua in the lead-up to the 50th anniversary of the restoration of China's lawful seat in the United Nations, which falls on Monday.

Indeed, those pressing planetary challenges, along with ongoing profound global changes unseen in a century, have led humanity to yet another crucial crossroads in history. Should modern history and contemporary reality be a guide, multilateralism is the only viable way forward.

No less important is the fact that multilateralism is effective only when put into action. In this regard, China sets a good example as a staunch standard-bearer of true multilateralism. Shahid spoke for all the clear-eyed around the world when he noted that "China has played a very, very important role in multilateralism."

For starters, China has been a firm champion of the cause of the United Nations, the banner of multilateralism, supporting it playing its due role as "the core institution for addressing international affairs through cooperation."

The restoration of China's lawful seat in the United Nations 50 years ago helped the world body truly become the most representative and authoritative international organization. Since then, China has been committed to advancing the UN cause and promoting world peace and development.

Now China is the second largest funding contributor to UN peacekeeping operations. Since 1990, the country has dispatched over 50,000 peacekeepers to nearly 30 UN peacekeeping missions, making it the largest troop contributor among the permanent members of the Security Council.

Members of China's peacekeeping infantry battalion line up for inspection by representatives of the Untied Nations at their camp in South Sudan on May 26, 2015. (Xinhua/Li Ziheng)

China's contribution to global growth has remained the highest for 15 years running. Its anti-poverty success, Belt and Road Initiative and Global Development Initiative, among many others, have provided enormous opportunities, impetus and confidence for world development.

China has also worked tirelessly to promote international cooperation in tackling the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and other threats to humanity's shared future. As of mid-October 2021, China has contributed over 1.5 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines to over 100 countries and international organizations. It has pledged to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.

Cargos containing the Sinopharm COVID-19 vaccines are seen upon arrival in Manila, the Philippines, Aug. 20, 2021. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali)

Meanwhile, China has been a genuine practitioner of the core principle of multilateralism, which is that world affairs should be handled through extensive consultation, and the future of the world should be decided by all countries working together.

Over the past five decades, China has joined almost all universal intergovernmental organizations, signed more than 600 international conventions, and earnestly fulfilled its international obligations.

It has always stood on the side of fairness and justice, upholding sovereign equality, opposing interference in other countries' internal affairs, power politics and hegemonic bullying, and pushing for political solutions to major regional and global disputes.

It has also spearheaded global efforts to foster a new type of international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness and justice, and win-win cooperation, and safeguard the common values of humanity, namely peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom.

Besides, China has been an untiring advocate of respect for diversity, the essence of multilateralism, promoting mutual learning among civilizations and the building of an open and inclusive world.

Diversity is a basic feature of the world, it is a reflection of the basic fact that each nation has its own unique history and culture, and it is what makes human civilization so rich and fascinating.

With that in mind, China has made it a fundamental tenet in its world outlook that all countries should respect each other's independent choice of social system and development path in light of their respective national conditions.

Acknowledging that differences and problems among countries are hardly avoidable, China always maintains that they need to be handled through dialogue and cooperation on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

Just as Chinese President Xi Jinping said in his address to the general debate of the 76th session of the UNGA in September, "a world of peace and development should embrace civilizations of various forms, and must accommodate diverse paths to modernization."

Furthermore, China has been a determined defender of true multilateralism, resolutely calling out and debunking various forms of pseudo-multilateralism in an open and aboveboard fashion.

Aerial photo taken on Oct. 13, 2021 shows the container ship Libra of China's COSCO Shipping at Shanghai Yangshan Port, east China. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe)

As the COVID-19 pandemic accelerates the transformation of the international landscape, the world has entered a period of new turbulence, with some countries resorting to group politics and small circles to sabotage the international order in the name of "returning to multilateralism."

They often claim to uphold the "rules-based international order," but refuse to clarify whether the rules they say mean the international law based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. That gives the lie to their lip service to multilateralism.

In fact, they are just scheming to impose their own will and standards on others and replace universally accepted international norms with rules tailor-made for their own selfish interests.

In stark contrast, China believes that in the world, there is only one international system, the one with the United Nations at its core, and only one international order, the one underpinned by international law.

Just as Xi stressed Monday at a conference marking the 50th anniversary of the restoration of China's lawful seat in the United Nations, "international rules can only be made by the 193 UN Member States together, and not decided by individual countries or blocs of countries. International rules should be observed by the 193 UN Member States, and there is and should be no exception."

That is a bedrock principle and a litmus test of the practice of multilateralism, as well as a guard rail for its future, which in turn matters a great deal to the shared future of humanity.

So it is high time that all members of the international community heeded the call of the times and held high the torch of true multilateralism so as to jointly build a better world for all.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
Xi congratulates Mirziyoyev on election as Uzbek president

Xinhua) 10:09, October 26, 2021

BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has congratulated Shavkat Mirziyoyev on his re-election as Uzbekistan's president.

In a congratulatory message sent on Monday, Xi pointed out that the construction of a "New Uzbekistan" has seen encouraging achievements since President Mirziyoyev took office, making important contributions to the stability and development of Central Asia.

Xi expressed his confidence that under Mirziyoyev's leadership, Uzbekistan will make new and greater achievements in various undertakings of national development.

Cooperation in various fields between China and Uzbekistan has been continuously deepened since the two countries established diplomatic relations, he stressed.

"I attach great importance to the development of China-Uzbekistan relations and stand ready to work with you to take the opportunity of celebrating the 30th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties next year to jointly write a new chapter in the development of the China-Uzbekistan comprehensive strategic partnership so as to benefit the two countries and their peoples," Xi said.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
Chinese FM meets with acting deputy PM of Afghan Taliban's interim gov't

Xinhua) 10:14, October 26, 2021

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) meets with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, acting deputy prime minister of the Afghan Taliban's interim government, in Doha, Qatar, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Photo by Nikku/Xinhua)

China promises to continue to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan, and work with the international community to help the country realize economic reconstruction as well as independent development.

DOHA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday met with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the acting deputy prime minister of the Afghan Taliban's interim government, in the Qatari capital of Doha.

During the meeting, Wang said that Afghanistan, now standing at a critical stage of transforming from chaos to governance, is currently facing a historic opportunity to truly master its own destiny, achieve reconciliation and tolerance, and advance national reconstruction.

At the same time, Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties, said Wang, adding that overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the international community.

Wang expressed his hope that the Afghan Taliban will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction, and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (5th L) poses for a photo with the Afghan Taliban delegation led by acting Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, in Doha, Qatar, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Photo by Nikku/Xinhua)

The Chinese official also urged the Taliban to adopt a friendly policy toward its neighboring countries, and build a modern country that conforms to the wishes of the people as well as the trend of the times.

China always respects Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and supports the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and choose the development path, said Wang.

China, which has never interfered in the internal affairs of Afghanistan and never sought selfish gains or a sphere of influence, firmly pursues a friendly policy toward all the people of Afghanistan, and supports the efforts to restore stability and rebuild the country, the Chinese diplomat said.

Attaching importance to the humanitarian difficulties facing Afghanistan at present, China urges the United States and the West as a whole to lift sanctions, and calls on all parties to engage with the Afghan Taliban in a rational and pragmatic manner to help Afghanistan embark on a path of healthy development, Wang noted.

He expressed China's willingness to continue to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan within its capacity and work with the international community to help Afghanistan alleviate temporary difficulties and realize economic reconstruction as well as independent development.

Wang emphasized that the "East Turkestan Islamic Movement" (ETIM), an international terrorist organization listed by the UN Security Council, not only poses a real threat to China's national security and territorial integrity, but also jeopardizes the domestic stability and long-term stability in Afghanistan.

The Chinese delegation led by State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi (3rd R) holds a meeting with a delegation led by Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, acting deputy prime minister of the Afghan Taliban's interim government, in Doha, Qatar, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Photo by Nikku/Xinhua)

He said that he hopes and believes that the Afghan Taliban will make a clean break with the ETIM and other terrorist organizations, and take effective measures to resolutely crack down on them.

For his part, Baradar briefed Wang on the current situation in Afghanistan, which he said is under control and improving, with the governments at all levels being gradually established and government decrees being carried out effectively.

The Afghan interim government is working hard to meet the needs of the people, and will learn from its historical experience to take a development path in line with its national conditions, said Baradar.

It has taken and will continue to take inclusive measures to expand the representation of the regime, he said, citing that most officials and technocrats of the former government have stayed in office, and more talents of all ethnic groups will be recruited to participate in the state governance in the future.

Meanwhile, Baradar said that the Afghan Taliban is willing to strengthen the efforts to protect the rights and interests of women and children, and will not deprive them of the rights to education and work.

For now, women in medical institutions, airports and other places have resumed their work, and girls in primary and secondary schools in many provinces have returned to school, but they still face difficulties such as lack of facilities and funds, the Taliban official said.

Baradar expressed the hope that China and the international community will increase assistance to Afghanistan to help it overcome the humanitarian crisis and return to the right track of development.

He also expressed thanks to China, an important neighbor of Afghanistan, for its respect and friendliness shown to Afghanistan during the difficult times.

Pursuing a friendly policy toward China is the firm choice by the Afghan Taliban, which hopes to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields, he said.

The Afghan Taliban, which attaches great importance to China's security concerns, will resolutely honor its promise and never allow anyone or any force to use the Afghan territory to harm China, Baradar added.

During his stay in Doha, Wang will also meet with Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
FDA advisors to rule on Pfizer vaccine in younger children as experts foresee "green light"

Xinhua) 10:31, October 26, 2021

Photo taken on Aug. 23, 2021 shows Pfizer signage at Pfizer's World Headquarters in New York, United States. (Photo by Michael Nagle/Xinhua)

If authorized, the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine would be the first COVID-19 vaccine for younger children.

WASHINGTON, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Advisors to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are set for a key meeting Tuesday on whether to recommend the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11, as experts predicted younger kids will be eligible for the vaccine in early November.

The FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday to discuss whether to approve the vaccine. If authorized, it would be the first COVID-19 vaccine for younger children.

Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert, said some 28 million children ages 5 to 11 in the United States may be able to receive their COVID-19 vaccine in the first two weeks of November.

"You never want to get ahead of the FDA in their regulatory decisions, nor do you want to get ahead of the CDC and their advisers on what the recommended would be," Fauci said in an interview with ABC News.

"But if you look at the data that's been made public and announced by the company, the data looked good as to the efficacy and the safety," he said.

Pfizer and its partner BioNTech said their COVID-19 vaccine is safe and 90.7 percent effective against symptomatic COVID-19 in children ages 5 to 11, according to a document posted on the FDA website ahead of the meeting.

Pfizer and BioNTech are applying FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) of a two-dose regimen of 10-microgram dose for children ages 5 to 11, which would be administered three weeks apart.

The most common side effects occurred after the second dose and included pain at the injection site, fatigue and headache.

Students attend an in-person class in a school in Los Angeles, California, the United States, on April 13, 2021. (Xinhua)

There were no serious adverse events associated with the vaccine, according to the FDA.

Moderna also announced Monday that a study in children ages 6 to 11 found two doses of its COVID-19 vaccine given 28 days apart produced a strong antibody response.

The Phase 2/3 study, called the KidCOVE study, gave over 4,700 participants two 50 microgram doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine mRNA-1273, half the dose authorized for adults.

The interim analysis showed a "robust neutralizing antibody response" after two doses given 28 days apart, according to Moderna.

The most common side effects were fatigue, headache, fever and pain at the site of injection. Moderna said the analysis showed a "favorable safety profile."

Nearly 6.3 million children have tested positive for COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic, according to latest data updated by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on Monday.

Almost 118,000 child COVID-19 cases were added over the past week. Over 1 million child cases were added over the past six weeks, according to the AAP.

Although weekly cases decreased from the peak of nearly 252,000 child cases on the week of Sept. 2, a total of 118,000 cases remains an "extremely high number" of newly diagnosed children, said the AAP.

Health experts stressed to get children eligible for COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible is key to curb the increase in child cases, and prevent the virus from spreading to other vulnerable groups.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
Xi reaffirms China's commitment to peace and cooperation, urges upholding UN authority

Xinhua) 10:38, October 26, 2021

-- Five decades ago, the 26th Session of the UN General Assembly adopted, with an overwhelming majority, Resolution 2758, and restored all rights of the People's Republic of China in the United Nations.

-- For these 50 years, the Chinese people have stood in solidarity and cooperation with people around the world and upheld international equity and justice, contributing significantly to world peace and development.

-- Addressing a conference marking the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat at the UN, Chinese President Xi Jinping said China would always be a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development and a defender of the international order.

BEIJING, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday reaffirmed China's commitment to the path of peaceful development and win-win cooperation, and called on the world to uphold the authority and standing of the United Nations (UN) and practice true multilateralism.

Addressing a commemorative meeting marking the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat at the United Nations, Xi said China would always be a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development and a defender of the international order.

Five decades ago, the 26th Session of the UN General Assembly adopted, with an overwhelming majority, Resolution 2758, and restored all rights of the People's Republic of China in the United Nations.

"It was a victory for the Chinese people and a victory for people of the world," Xi said, adding that the past 50 years have witnessed China's peaceful development and its commitment and dedication to the welfare of all humanity.

Combo photo taken between July and October 2020 shows villagers, who used to be registered as impoverished households in over 20 cities and counties of northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, smiling as they have benefited from the businesses under poverty alleviation program. (Xinhua)

CONTRIBUTING TO PEACE, DEVELOPMENT

The restoration of China's lawful seat at the United Nations marked a momentous event for the world and the United Nations. It came as the result of joint efforts of all peace-loving countries that stood up for justice in the world.

"It marked the return of the Chinese people, or one-fourth of the world's population, back to the UN stage," Xi said, stressing that the importance was significant and far-reaching for both China and the wider world.

Ruan Zongze, executive vice president of the China Institute of International Studies, said China's restoration of its legitimate seat at the United Nations means that the United Nations has truly become the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental international organization, which is a milestone of historic importance for both the development of the United Nations and China's diplomatic history.

For these 50 years, the Chinese people have stood in solidarity and cooperation with people around the world and upheld international equity and justice, contributing significantly to world peace and development.

Since 1990, China has dispatched over 50,000 peacekeepers to nearly 30 UN peacekeeping missions. It is the second largest funding contributor to UN peacekeeping operations and has contributed more peacekeepers than any other permanent member of the Security Council.

Members of a Chinese medical team to Algeria attend a ceremony at Jiangbei International Airport in southwest China's Chongqing, May 13, 2020. (Xinhua/Liu Chan)

China has also realized remarkable development and achieved a historic breakthrough of leaping from a country with relatively low productivity to the second largest economy in the world.

According to the World Bank's poverty line, poverty reduction in China represents 70 percent of the world's total, achieving the target set by the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years ahead of schedule.

"Peace and development are our common cause, equity and justice our common aspiration, and democracy and freedom our common pursuit," Xi said.

"We should vigorously advocate peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, which are the common values of humanity, and work together to provide the right guiding philosophy for building a better world."

"The more China develops, the better it will be for the United Nations. China can firmly support the United Nations to play a greater role in international affairs and continuously contribute to global peaceful development and progress," Ruan said.

DEVOTED TO WIN-WIN RESULTS

Nowadays, the world is facing accelerated changes unseen in a century, while the force for peace, development and progress has continued to grow. Under such circumstance, Xi called on the world to choose cooperation over confrontation, openness over seclusion, and mutual benefit over zero-sum games.

"We should stay committed to mutual benefit and win-win results, and work together to promote economic and social development for the greater benefit of our people," Xi said.

Noting that China is committed to achieving common development, he stressed that China has always helped other developing countries and offered the world new opportunities through its own development.

"China's remarkable development is not only a boon to itself, but also to the region, particularly the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the world," said Phay Siphan, Cambodian government chief spokesman.

Photo taken on Oct. 14, 2021 shows the opening ceremony of the Second United Nations Global Sustainable Transport Conference in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Li He)

At the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly held last month, China proposed a Global Development Initiative with the hope that countries will work together to overcome the impacts of COVID-19 on global development, accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and build a global community of development with a shared future.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailed the initiative as being of great positive significance to promoting global equality, and a balanced and sustainable development, saying that the United Nations fully supports the initiative and is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in this regard.

Liu Meng, head of the Asia Pacific Networks of the UN Global Compact, said the initiative coordinated the differences and characteristics of countries at different development stages, and focused on the common challenges and problems faced by all countries.

"It will drive countries to build consensus, make joint efforts, and help promote win-win cooperation among them," Liu said.

CHAMPIONING TRUE MULTILATERALISM

In the speech, Xi urged the upholding of the UN's authority and standing, and practicing true multilateralism, as the world is confronted by regional disputes and global challenges such as terrorism, climate change, cybersecurity and biosecurity.

"Only with more inclusive global governance, more effective multilateral mechanisms and more active regional cooperation, can these issues be addressed effectively," Xi said.

"International rules can only be made by the 193 UN Member States together, and not decided by individual countries or blocs of countries. International rules should be observed by the 193 UN Member States, and there is and should be no exception," Xi stressed.

An airport worker transports packages of Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine at Phnom Penh International Airport in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, on Oct. 14, 2021. (Photo by Phearum/Xinhua)

Natee Taweesrifuengfung, president of the Thailand-based Siam Think Tank, said as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has set a good example in improving the global governance system, staying true to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and upholding the central role of the United Nations in international affairs.

He added that China's commitment to working with the rest of the world toward a community with a shared future for mankind is a solid testament to how China endeavors to promote the improvement of the global governance system.

Xi also reaffirmed China's commitment to the United Nations and the world, saying China stands ready to work with all countries under the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits to explore new ideas and new models of cooperation and keep enriching the practice of multilateralism under new circumstances.

Guterres said China always persists in multilateralism and supports the UN course, and called on the international community to strengthen solidarity, uphold multilateralism, improve global governance, and achieve more fairness and justice.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
Xinjiang lady welcomes tourists to tranquil town in Altay for a taste of milk tea

People's Daily Online) 10:48, October 26, 2021

At the foot of the beautiful Altay Mountains in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region lies a tranquil town, home to the Kazakh people who are satisfied with their lives, including the family of Gulbahar. At the Altay bus station, Gulbahar runs a milk tea shop that has accumulated many regular customers as milk tea is part of local people's everyday life.

Gulbahar has two children and hopes for them to grow up to be healthy and make a contribution to society.

(Web editor: Xian Jiangnan, Liang Jun)
Feature: Turkish ceramic artist meets new opportunities in China's "porcelain capital"

Xinhua) 13:07, October 26, 2021

ISTANBUL, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- For the last 10 years in the Chinese city of Jingdezhen, Turkish ceramic artist Ekrem Yazici has been creating elegant porcelain artworks, reflecting the cultural integration of Turkey and China into his designs.

In 2009, Yazici paid his first visit to Jingdezhen, a small city in the mountains of east China's Jiangxi Province, and decided to pursue a master's degree in ceramic design at Jingdezhen Ceramics Institute.

"I have got abundant knowledge of porcelains in Western countries, while in China, I could fill gaps in knowledge about Chinese porcelain, the birthplace where porcelain has its roots," Yazici told Xinhua during a recent interview in the city, which is known as the porcelain capital of the world.

After his graduation, Yazici settled down in this city and opened his atelier.

"Almost everyone in the city is engaging in business related to porcelain," he said, noting that even in the early hours of the morning, he could see people carrying porcelain pieces.

Jingdezhen is an inclusive city where anyone, no matter whether an artist, designer, trader, or visitor, can produce porcelain with the help of craftsmen, he said.

"I am so lucky to be here, meet such a lot of opportunities, and be brave enough to take a step into an unfamiliar country," said Yazici, who is confident that he would realize his life-long dream of making porcelain in the city.

China's Jingdezhen porcelains greatly inspired Turkish tile masters since the Ottoman era and paved the way for the start of porcelain production in Turkey, a prominent Turkish porcelain expert said.

"Their value has increased manyfold due to their high quality and high artistic value and highly qualified raw material," Omur Tufan, manager of the Topkapi Palace Museum Porcelain Collection, told Xinhua, showing some unique examples of 14th-century Celadon pieces made in Jingdezhen.

The Topkapi Palace Museum in Istanbul possesses a 12,000-piece collection of Chinese porcelain, and Jingdezhen ceramics constitute 50 percent of this collection.

Tufan said the pieces from Jingdezhen have been frequently transported from China via the ancient Silk Road upon the requests of the Ottoman Sultans throughout history.

"Celadon pots of the second half of the 14th century and the beginning of the 15th century are among the rare and exquisite samples (of the collection) made in that region. The blue and white ceramic plates and bowls of the Yuan period created in the same area are also important pieces of the palace," Tufan said.

Iznik, a district of the northwestern Bursa province, "is Turkey's Jingdezhen," said Yazici, adding that the city's porcelain industry rapidly grew during the period from the 16th to 17th centuries.

"I am glad to be an envoy of Turkey-China porcelain culture and trade exchanges," he said.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
ASEAN kicks off series of virtural summits with COVID-19, economic recovery high on agenda

Xinhua) 13:11, October 26, 2021

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday kick-started its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said the ASEAN member states will take this opportunity to consider ASEAN's community building efforts in realizing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025.

He noted that ASEAN countries will also discuss other issues, including further strengthening the resilience towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and enhancing cooperation with dialogue partners.

Lim Jock Hoi, secretary general of the ASEAN, said in his greeting speech that despite the COVID-19 pandemic challenges, ASEAN's economic outlook remains resilient.

He said ASEAN's economic recovery from this pandemic will depend on a more even distribution of vaccination rollout across the region, which will ensure the continued fair and credible access to the vaccines for all people.

The ASEAN summits, with the theme "We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper," is scheduled to discuss a number of issues, including further strengthening the resilience of the ASEAN Community towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing the preparedness of the ASEAN in addressing common challenges; seizing new opportunities in pursuit of shared prosperity; and maintaining cooperation towards achieving the region's long-term goals.

As this year marks the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations, expectations are also high that the upcoming summits would herald a new chapter for the relationship, which has grown from strength to strength and weathered difficulties and challenges, including the pandemic.

Meanwhile, both ASEAN members and their dialogue partners hope the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a mega trade deal between 10 ASEAN member states plus China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand which was signed last November, will take effect soon to promote regional trade and investment, thus helping with the post-pandemic economic recovery in the region.

Scheduled for Tuesday to Thursday, the 38th and 39th ASEAN summits and related summits will also be joined by leaders from ASEAN's dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the United States, Australia and Russia, among others.

Established in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Brunei is the ASEAN chair for 2021.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
2021 Hunan International Green Development Expo held in Changsha

People's Daily Online) 13:27, October 26, 2021

The 2021 Hunan International Green Development Expo was held in Changsha, central Chinas Hunan province, from Oct. 22 to 24.

Visitors visit the 2021 Hunan International Green Development Expo held in Changsha, central Chinas Hunan province. (Photo/Jiang Ling)

With the theme of low carbon, circulation, and development, the three-day event serves as an important platform to showcase the latest technologies and achievements in the green industry while deepening international exchanges and cooperation in green development.

The expo covers an area of 40,000 square meters and is subdivided into individual exhibition areas, including the low carbon and new energy industry, the environmental protection industry, the circular economy, and energy conservation.

A total of 421 enterprises attended the event offline, while 1,721 enterprises chose to participate in the expo online. These exhibitors showcased their technologies and equipment for pollution prevention and control in water, air and soil, solid waste treatment and disposal, as well as the circular economy for industry and agriculture.

A summit on carbon peaking and carbon neutrality for the city clusters along the middle reaches of the Yangtze River was held alongside the expo. Meanwhile, a week-long virtual activity, which was a highlight of the expo, also kicked off on Oct. 18, displaying technologies and equipment in 15 categories, such as new energy transportation, green buildings, coal combustion efficiency, wind power, and hydropower.

The expo was co-organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Hunan Sub-Council, the Development and Reform Commission of Hunan Province, the Ecology and Environment Department of Hunan, and the Changsha Municipal Peoples Government.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Du Mingming)
PLA Western Theater Commands fighter jets engage in flight training

China Military Online) 13:44, October 26, 2021

A fighter jet attached to an aviation brigade of the air force under the PLA Western Theater Command takes off for a flight training exercise on October 10, 2021. (eng.chinamil.com.cn/Photo by Zhao Dian)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
Xi calls for building closer China-Pakistan community with shared future in new era

Xinhua) 14:01, October 26, 2021

Photo taken on Nov. 8, 2020 shows an Orange Line metro train leaving a station in Pakistan's eastern city of Lahore. As an early-harvest project under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the Orange Line will further strengthen bilateral traditional friendship and usher in new opportunities for locals heading to a better life. (Photo by Sajjad/Xinhua)

BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday urged China and Pakistan to build a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era in a phone conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

During the past 70 years since the establishment of China-Pakistan diplomatic ties, no matter how the international situation may change, the two sides have always stood side by side in weal and woe, Xi noted.

China and Pakistan have worked together to tackle risks and challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, through which strategic mutual trust has been consolidated and strategic cooperation deepened, he said, adding that history has fully proved that the two countries are each other's most reliable iron-clad brother.

The world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, with more sources of turbulence and risks around the world, he said.

Under the new circumstances, Xi called on the two countries to stand together even more firmly and push forward the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two sides, and build a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era.

Xi stressed that China supports Pakistan in exploring a development path suited to its own national conditions and is willing to share China's high-quality development opportunities with Pakistan.

The two sides should maintain close strategic communication, further synergize development strategies and enhance the sharing of experience on governance, Xi noted.

He said that China will continue to support Pakistan in its fight against COVID-19, jointly build the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor with high quality and strengthen their cooperation in such fields as agriculture, digital economy and people's livelihood.

We will continue to unleash the positive effects of the corridor in promoting growth and improving people's well-being, he said.

Xi noted that the two sides should strengthen counter-terrorism and security cooperation.

China is ready to work with Pakistan to enhance multilateral coordination, practice genuine multilateralism and promote international equity and justice, so as to safeguard common interests and safeguard world peace and stability, he said.

For his part, Khan extended his congratulations once again on the centenary of the Communist Party of China and the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Pakistan and China.

He also congratulated China on successfully holding activities to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat in the United Nations.

Noting that he fully agrees with Xi, the prime minister said the world is facing many major issues, which needs closer communication and cooperation between Pakistan and China.

Pakistan-China relations, he said, have gone through tests, and the two countries have shared weal and woe and supported each other.

China's support for Pakistan in fighting COVID-19 has safeguarded the lives of the Pakistani people, setting an example of a big country selflessly helping a small one, he added.

Pakistan firmly adheres to the one-China policy, firmly supports China's position on issues concerning its core interests, such as the issues related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and human rights, and firmly supports the Global Development Initiative proposed by Xi, said the prime minister.

Pakistan stands ready to work with China to promote the construction of the Pakistan-China Economic Corridor and pragmatic cooperation in various fields, he said, adding that his country attaches great importance to and will continue to take concrete measures to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions in Pakistan.

The two sides also exchanged views on Afghanistan and other issues.

(Web editor: Shi Xi, Liang Jun)
Over 80 pct of countries and regions receive investments from China as of 2020: report

People's Daily Online) 17:42, October 26, 2021

Aerial photo taken on Jan. 16, 2019 shows the Piraeus port in Greece. (Xinhua/Wu Lu)

Junhe Pumps Holding Co., Ltd. based in Ningbo, east Chinas Zhejiang province has opened two branch companies in North America and Europe in the past two years in a bid to better satisfy the needs of local clients with products that can adequately suit their preferences.

As we make more investments in foreign countries, we are full of confidence in kicking off new projects, said Zhang Junbo, general manager of the company.

We registered a compound annual growth rate of 16.7 percent over the course of three years in North America. We also built digital factories so as to increase the added value of our products, Zhang introduced, adding that their products have not only met the demand of foreign clients but also are indicative of a wider industry trend.

The enthusiasm seen at Chinese companies when investing in foreign countries epitomizes the rising quality and quantity of foreign investments that China has made. According to a government statistical bulletin released earlier this year, Chinas outbound direct investment (ODI) soared 12.3 percent on an annual basis to reach $153.71 billion in 2020, with the flow scale ranking first in the world for the first time.

Flows of Chinas ODI accounted for more than 10 percent of the worlds total for five consecutive years, reaching 20.2 percent of the globes total in 2020. The countrys ODI stock amounted to $2.58 trillion and ranked third among the largest investors in the global market by the end of 2020.

Last year, Chinas ODI mainly went to 18 industries, with nearly 70 percent of it going to leasing and commercial services, manufacturing, retail and wholesaling, and financial sectors. The flows of Chinas ODI into these four industries all exceeded $10 billion.

A lot of indicators mentioned in the bulletin, including reinvested earnings that remained at a high level, and the fact that the investment scale from the non-public sector of the economy surpassed that of the public sector in the economy, all indicated that Chinese enterprises have taken a stride forward in becoming involved in the global value chain and that their global competitiveness and ability to make investments have improved on a steady basis, said Ge Shunqi, a researcher with Nankai University focusing on international investment.

By the end of 2020, more than 80 percent of the countries and regions around the world had received some form of investment from China, with 28,000 Chinese enterprises having established 45,000 companies in 189 countries and regions around the world.

The bulletin further revealed that a total of $22.54 billion was invested in countries along the Belt and Road in 2020, which accounted for 14.7 percent of Chinas overall ODI and which also witnessed a year-on-year increase of 20.6 percent. By the end of 2020, the countrys ODI stock in countries along the Belt and Road stood at $200.79 billion, accounting for 7.8 percent of its total ODI stock.

Last year, Chinese companies completed 84 cross-border mergers and acquisition projects at a total combined worth of $3.15 billion in countries along the Belt and Road, accounting for 11.1 percent of the total value of foreign mergers and acquisitions carried out in the same year.

Chinas investment cooperation with other countries has delivered mutual benefits for both sides, which proves how significant financial interconnectivity is in pushing for high-quality co-construction of the Belt and Road, Ge explained.

Ten years since the Chinese company COSCO Shipping started managing the container terminals at Piraeus port, the image of Greeces largest port has changed dramatically. According to Tassos Vamvakidis, a manager of Piraeus Container Terminal S.A (PCT), COSCO Shippings subsidiary in Piraeus, it was the Chinese company that helped the port out of its difficulties, which has since seen a reversal in its fortunes.

In 2019, the port handled a total of 5.65 million 20-foot equivalent units (TEUs), compared with 880,000 in 2010, making it the top port in the Mediterranean. That year, it contributed 600 million euros to Greeces economy. The port plays a vital role in boosting local economic development and improving peoples livelihoods, said Vamvakidis. More than 3,000 people have been hired to do the services outsourced by COSCO, with thousands of more jobs having also been created in peripheral industries, he revealed.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Bianji)
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday met with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres via video link, vowing to enhance coordination with the UN to work for a new stage of balanced, coordinated and inclusive global development. Noting Monday marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat in the UN, Xi said the commemorative conference held by China is for reviewing the eventful course jointly covered by China and the UN and forging a better world together from a new historical starting point. Xi said history has proven time and time again no matter how powerful a country is, it cannot dictate other countries by way of hegemony and, still less, dominate the world. In face of regional hotspot issues, we must abide by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, respect the people's will of the involved countries, and resort to a political settlement, he added. Xi said there is only one system, one order and one set of rules in the world, and all countries should act within this framework, rather than do whatever suits them. For major countries, they should respect each other, coexist peacefully and work for mutual benefit on a win-win basis, which serves the common interests of the international community. Noting the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted development and people's livelihoods in all countries, especially the developing countries, Xi pointed out we should attach importance to and get work well done in both the joint pandemic response and the economic recovery. He urged stepping up anti-pandemic assistance to developing countries, as well as fair and reasonable distribution of vaccines globally to help make vaccines global public goods. China is ready to enhance coordination with the UN to promote the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, address development predicament in developing countries, help implement the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, and work for a new stage of balanced, coordinated and inclusive global development, Xi said. He urged countries to actively implement the Paris Agreement, abide by the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, faithfully implement their respective responsibilities of emission reduction, and help developing countries accelerate economic transformation. China will honor its words with deeds as it has announced nationally determined measures to respond to climate change, Xi said. Noting the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity and the Second UN Global Sustainable Transport Conference, jointly held by China and the UN, have rallied new consensus on sustainable development, Xi said China will support the biodiversity protection cause in developing countries. Xi stressed an important experience from the 50 years of cooperation between China and the UN is that we should hold fast to the UN ideals, stay committed to multilateralism, and earnestly contribute to world peace and development. China is ready to work with all countries, united under the UN flag, to forge a community of a shared future for humanity, said Xi. For his part, Guterres congratulated the People's Republic of China on the restoration of a lawful seat in the UN on Oct. 25 50 years ago, and thanked China for supporting the UN's work and playing a major role in promoting world peace and development, adding unilateralism is totally unacceptable. He also voiced the UN's appreciation for China's key role in poverty reduction, climate change response, biodiversity protection and promoting COVID-19 vaccines as global public goods, adding the UN is willing to enhance cooperation with China on the Global Development Initiative. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and a member of the Secretariat of the CPC Central Committee, attended the meeting.


Companies and developers specializing in artificial intelligence (AI) and speech technology gathered in Hefei, capital of east China's Anhui Province, on Monday for the 4th World Voice Expo and Global 1024 Developer Festival.

With the theme of "Symbiosis with AI, a New Journey," the expo features more than 1,000 cutting-edge AI products in fields such as manufacturing, education, medical care and smart city management. The event is mainly organized by iFLYTEK, an AI and speech-technology giant based in Anhui.

More than 2.65 million developers from home and abroad have joined an open AI innovation platform backed by iFLYTEK since its launch in 2010, churning out more than 1.26 million applications.

The platform was approved by China's Ministry of Science and Technology as one of the first batches of national open platforms for new-generation AI innovation in 2017.

"The number of developers on the platform has increased by 90,000 per month on average over the past year. People from all kinds of backgrounds are joining the platform to develop more and more products. We can feel a stronger momentum in the application of AI technology," said Liu Qingfeng, chairman of iFLYTEK.

Speaking at the expo's opening ceremony, Gao Wen, an academician with the Chinese Academy of Engineering, said that China has a large number of young talent, but the number it has at the top level is only about 20 percent of United States' figure. Therefore, China needs to do a better job in cultivating more leading AI talent, said Gao.

The Global 1024 Developer Festival was launched in 2017 and was combined with the World Voice Expo in 2018 to form a unified event. The four-day expo includes product-launch conferences, industry summits, AI developer contests and other events. Enditem




PYONGYANG -- Kim Jong-un, top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), has sent a wreath to the cemetery of the martyrs of the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) in Hoechang County, South Phyongan Province, the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported on Tuesday.

The wreath was sent on Monday by Kim on behalf of all Korean people and was laid before the cemetery of CPV martyrs on the occasion of the 71st anniversary of China's sending the CPV to the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea, the KCNA said.

The historic significance of the CPV's entry into the Korean front, which clearly manifested the friendship and great unity between the peoples of the two countries, remains unchanged as it is even after the lapse of more than 70 years, and it is immortal in the annals of bilateral friendship, the report said.

"The Chinese government made a strategic decision of dispatching the CPV to the Korean front under the banner of resisting America and aiding Korea, safeguarding the home and defending the motherland despite the very difficult situation," Kim was quoted as saying.

China also "rendered disinterested revolutionary assistance and won the great victory in the war, with the united forces of the peoples and armies of the two countries, and thus defended the security of the two countries," Kim said.
BEIJING, Oct. 26 -- Recently, some Japanese politicians have frequently made indiscreet remarks about the Taiwan question and hyped up China threat theory on maritime issues. This happened again at the 17th Beijing-Tokyo Forum held on October 25, where Chinese expert refuted some baseless remarks and doubts made by the Japanese side.

The first China-Russia joint maritime cruise wrapped up days ago, during which the Chinese and Russian navies, in strict accordance with relevant provisions of the international law, didnt enter the territorial sea of any country. However, when Katsutoshi Kawano, former Chief of Staff of the Japan Self-Defense Forces Joint Staff , mentioned this during the Q&A session of the forum. He said that the Chinese and Russian fleets sailing around Japan is something Japan doesnt want to see. As for the resolution of Taiwan question, if China decides to resort to force, Japan will react accordingly.

In face of the Japanese sides fallacies, Yao Yunzhu, senior advisor to the China Association of Military Science, pointed out that the US military has a permanent principle that as long as the international law permits, it would send its vessels to all oceans, aircraft to all airspace, and carry out military operations in all regions. Would Japan oppose this principle too? Besides, Chinese and Russian vessels have not entered the territorial sea of any other country during the recent joint cruise, strictly observing the international law.

According to Yao, China has explained many times that its naval strategy is inshore defense, offshore protection . China never wishes to seek maritime domination or control around the world, but is only performing inshore defense and protecting its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights.

On the Taiwan question, when the diplomatic relations between China and Japan were normalized in 1972, a joint statement signed by the two governments clearly stated that the Japanese government recognizes the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legal government of China. The Chinese government has always insisted that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the territory of the People's Republic of China. The Japanese government had promised to fully understand and respect this position of the Chinese government and adhere to the position of Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation.

In response to the present remarks made by the Japanese side, Yao stressed that China is always trying to realize the peaceful reunification of Taiwan, but it doesnt give up the right to use force  a policy that still holds today. When China and Japan forged diplomatic ties, Japan was very clear about Chinas stance on the Taiwan question.

As for Japans so-called reacting accordingly, Yao asked about the exact meaning of the Japanese sides statement. Does it mean that Japan would fight for Taiwan together with the US and provide logistic support for the US when it carried out military operations in the Taiwan region, or simply take unilateral actions?The Beijing-Tokyo Forum has been held for 17 years with the goal of preventing another war between China and Japan. If Japan changed its Taiwan policy and deviated from the original intention of forming diplomatic ties with China, Yao asked, How could we ensure the realization of the goal that weve been pursuing for 17 years?

Whats more, its also worth noting that the US had promised to provide nuclear-powered submarine technology to Australia under the new defense partnership, AUKUS, among Britain, the US and Australia. Yao asked what the Japanese side thought about this. Has Tokyo ever thought that such a move would be detrimental to regional peace and stability and threaten the international nuclear non-proliferation system?

It is learnt that the Beijing-Tokyo Forum was initiated in 2005 and is held alternately in Beijing and Tokyo every year. Having been held 17 times, the forum has become a comprehensive platform of official and public exchanges featuring a high level and a large scale. It has played an important role in promoting the healthy and stable development of China-Japan relations and deepening the mutual understanding and trust between the peoples of the two countries.
BEIJING, Oct. 26 -- The guided-missile destroyer Nanchang (Hull 101) of the Chinese PLA Navy successfully completed the China-Russia joint naval exercise Joint Sea-2021 and the first joint maritime cruise, returning to a military port in Qingdao on the afternoon of October 24. Rear Admiral Bai Yaoping , director of the Chinese side and deputy commander of the navy under the PLA Northern Theater Command, said that the successful practice of the China-Russia joint naval exercise Joint Sea-2021 fully embodies the high strategic mutual trust between the two countries, and the strong traditional friendship between the two militaries. It also marks that the capability of the two navies in jointly responding to maritime security threats has reached an unprecedented new height.

In his opinion, this mission has three distinctive new features compared with the past. The first is the high efficiency. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the two sides did not set up joint director department, joint command or other exercise commands ashore. The Chinese participating troops headed to the exercise site without assembly preparations. The second is close to actual combat. There has been no rehearsal before the exercise, and the operational instructions were issued completely according to the on-site conditions. These practices are more in line with the reality of the naval chain of command. The third is that breakthroughs have been made in many aspects. It is the first time for the PLA Navy to dispatch aircraft for the exercise in far ocean through Russia, as well as to send Type 055 destroyer and multi-type equipment for joint exercise abroad, which has led to a new mode of joint operations between the Chinese and Russian navies for the first time.

During the missions, the Chinese and Russian navies always grasped the positioning of the "China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era". The two sides have worked in tacit coordination and achieved plentiful achievements, Bai said.

The two navies capability in conducting joint operations in far seas and responding to maritime security threats, as well as their organization and implementation methods of the joint maritime exercises, has been fully optimized, he stressed. Besides, the two sides also explored and established a regular joint cruise organization and consultation mechanism, which would provide strong support for the subsequent improvement, added Bai.

As for the improvement of Chinese commanding officers, unprecedented proposition has placed higher demands on their combat techniques, since even a subtle movement of the naval fleet might lead to political and diplomatic issues, with the exercise themed on maintaining the security of strategic maritime channels. "This joint exercise has played a very good role in improving the strategic literacy of our commanders at all levels," said the Rear Admiral.

On the basis of the successful experience gained this time, the prospective China-Russia joint military exercises will inevitably be continuously adjusted according to the regional security situation and battlefield condition. However, there will be one thing that never changes, that is, the joint military exercise between China and Russia will always aim to maintain world peace and development, and maintain regional security and stability, he stressed.
By Jiang Yaping

PYONGYANG, Oct.26 -- The Chinese Ambassador to the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), Li Jinjun, and other Chinese diplomats, hosted a tomb-sweeping ceremony at China-DPRK Friendship Tower on October 25 to pay homage to the martyrs of the Chinese People's Volunteers (CPV) who died in the 1950-53 Korean War, as China commemorates the 71st anniversary of the CPV entering the DPRK to fight in the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea.

The ceremony began with the national anthems of the two countries. After that, the Chinese Embassy in DPRK presented flower baskets and those who participated in the ceremony paid silent tribute to the CPV martyrs.

In the name of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) , the Standing Committee of the Supreme Peoples Assembly , the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and many other units, the DPRK side presented flower baskets at the Friendship Tower to express condolences and respect to the CPV martyrs.

The China-DPRK Friendship Tower was built in 1959 and is located in Pyongyang. The tower is made of 1,025 pieces of granite and marble, symbolizing that the CPV entered the DPRK to fight in the war on October 25, 1950.
In particular, the government is concerned about the spread of the more contagious delta variant by travelers and about having a largely vaccinated public ahead of the Beijing Olympics in February. Overseas spectators already have been banned from the Games, and participants will have to stay in a bubble separating them from people outside.

China has employed lockdowns, quarantines and compulsory testing for the virus throughout the pandemic and has largely stamped out cases of local infection while fully vaccinating 1.07 billion people in its population of 1.4 billion.

The National Health Commission reported 35 new cases of local transmission had been detected over the past 24 hours, four of them in Gansu. Another 19 cases were found in the Inner Mongolia region, with others scattered around the country.

The expansion of the vaccination campaign comes as parts of China take new clampdown measures to try to stamp out small outbreaks. Gansu, a northwestern province heavily dependent on tourism, closed all tourist sites Monday after finding new COVID-19 cases. Residents in parts of Inner Mongolia have been ordered to stay indoors due to an outbreak there.

Local city and provincial level governments in at least five provinces issued notices in recent days announcing that children ages 3-11 will be required to get their vaccinations.

Children as young as 3 will start receiving COVID-19 vaccines in China, where 76 percent of the population has been fully vaccinated and authorities are maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward outbreaks.

China's most widely used vaccines, from Sinopharm and Sinovac, have shown efficacy in preventing severe disease and transmission of the virus, based on public data. But the protection they offer against the delta variant has not been answered definitively, although officials say they remain protective.

Hubei, Fujian and Hainan provinces all issued provincial level notices alerting new vaccination requirements, while individual cities in Zhejiang province and Hunan province have also issued similar announcements.

China in June had approved two vaccines -- Sinopharm's from the Beijing Institute of Biological Products and Sinovac -- for children age 3-17, but it has only been vaccinating those 12 and older. In August, regulators approved another, Sinopharm's from the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products.

After the vaccines received domestic approval for children in China, foreign governments began giving the shots to children in their own countries. Cambodia uses both Sinovac and Sinopharms shots in children 6-11. Regulators in Chile approved Sinovac for children as young as 6. In Argentina, regulators approved the Sinopharm vaccine for children as young as age 3.

Many developing countries left out of the race to get shots from Western pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and Moderna bought Chinese vaccines. China has shipped more than 1.2 billion doses as of September, according to its Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Even with widespread domestic and global use, not every parent is reassured about the vaccine, citing less publicly available data on the shots.

Wang Lu, who lives in the southern city of Fuzhou in Fujian province, said she isn't particularly rushing to get her 3-year-old son vaccinated. "I'm just not very clear on the vaccine's safety profile, so I don't really want to get him vaccinated, at the very least, I don't want to be the first," Wang said.

Sinovac started an efficacy trial with 14,000 child participants across multiple countries in September. Its approval in China was based on smaller phase 1 and phase 2 trials. Sinopharm's Beijing shot was also approved based on smaller phase 1 and phase 2 trials. These were published later in peer-reviewed journals.

Other parents said they weren't concerned, given that many other people had already gotten the shot. Wu Cong, a mom of a 7-year old, said her daughter's school in Shanghai hadn't yet notified them of any vaccinations. "I think this isn't too different from the flu vaccine, there's already been so many people vaccinated, so I dont have too many worries," said Wu.
Accepted vaccines only include the three approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration -- Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson.

The new rules take effect Nov. 8, and "only limited exceptions" will be allowed, senior Biden administration officials said during a background briefing with reporters. Those include vaccine exemptions for travelers from about 50 countries with exceptionally low vaccination rates, which include some of the world's poorest nations, many of those in Africa. Children under the age of 18 are also exempt from the vaccine requirement at this time, but will still have to present a negative test.

The United States will soon reopen its air borders for fully vaccinated foreign visitors who have one of three approved COVID-19 vaccines or who can present a negative COVID-19 test within 24 hours of travel, the White House announced Monday.

Exemptions will include "certain COVID-19 vaccine clinical trial participants, those with medical contraindications to the vaccines, and those who need to travel for emergency or humanitarian reasons," the White House said. Additionally, those who are granted an exception must agree to be vaccinated in the U.S. if they intend to stay for more than 60 days.

"The new system also includes enhanced testing requirements, strengthening contact tracing, as well as masking," a senior administration official said. "These are strict safety protocols that follow the science and public health to enhance the safety of Americans here at home, and the safety of international air travel."

In 2019, nearly 80 million international visitors came to the U.S., according to data from the U.S. Travel Association. That figure cratered in early 2020, when the pandemic hit and the administration of former President Donald Trump imposed restrictions that barred tens of thousands of travelers from most of the world.

Unvaccinated air passengers -- including unvaccinated U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents -- will now need to provide a negative test within one day of departure. Children under two years old will not need to test, and accommodations will be allowed for people who have documented their recovery from the virus within the last 90 days.
Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen told British lawmakers Monday that the social media giant "unquestionably" amplifies online hate.

In testimony to a parliamentary committee in London, the former Facebook employee echoed what she told U.S. senators earlier this month.

Haugen said the media giant fuels online hate and extremism and does not have any incentive to change its algorithm to promote less divisive content. She argued that as a result, Facebook may end up sparking more violent unrest around the world.

Haugen said the algorithm Facebook has designed to promote more engagement among users "prioritizes and amplifies divisive and polarizing extreme content" as well as concentrates it.
Husband-and-wife team Daryl Press and Jennifer Lind are both professors at Dartmouth College's Dickey Center for International Understanding. They made the unconventional suggestion in an op-ed for the Washington Post on Oct. 7.

A couple of U.S. academics believe South Korea should be encouraged to develop its own nuclear weapons to defend itself against the atomic threat from North Korea.

Lind and Press said it is legal for South Korea to bolt from the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons citing Article 10 and develop its own nuclear weapons. Article 10 of the NPT states, "Each Party shall, in exercising its national sovereignty, have the right to withdraw from the treaty if it decides that extraordinary events, related to the subject matter of this treaty, have jeopardized the supreme interests of its country."

 The nuclear threat from North Korea, they add, clearly qualifies as an "extraordinary event."

"When Jenny and I wrote this, we received a good number of communications from colleagues of ours, who are experts on the region, who say, I've been coming to the same conclusion as well," Press told the Chosun Ilbo. "But it didn't seem like the right time to say it. And so I do not think that we are the only people who have come to this conclusion. I think the contradictions in the alliance and questions about the nuclear deterrence issues are becoming apparent to many people. Because the logic of the U.S. keeping its deterrence commitments to South Korea becomes more and more difficult to explain in a world in which North Korea can destroy American cities."

 The U.S. government says it cannot condone South Korea arming itself with nuclear weapons, since that would threaten the very principle of non-proliferation.

"What we currently have is a situation where a country can violate the NPT and threaten the security of an NPT member in good standing," Lind says. "And that's a disastrous situation for an international institution. No institution could survive if its members found their security threatened by complying. But that's why the founders of the NPT were created article 10. They said, if you're a law-abiding member, and if you're facing... these extraordinary circumstances, you can legally withdraw... I think that denying compliant members the right to protect themselves, that would really harm the NPT."

 What made you to submit your op-ed to the Washing Post?

"One of the many triggers was the realization that if you asked which of the nine nuclear weapons countries in the world faces a greater external security threat than South Korea, I think the answer is none of them," Press explains. "None of the nine nuclear weapon states have a security threat, anything like South Korea, where South Korea has an adversary with military forces 60 km from its capital, who routinely threatens it, and who possesses nuclear weapons in violation of international law. None of the nuclear weapon states face that. No. 2 is I was on a phone call not very long ago, and a real expert in this area said, the reason South Korea won't get nuclear weapons is that it would prefer to have Samsung... And what he meant was that if South Korea were to acquire nuclear weapons, it would become a pariah to like the North Korea. I stopped him in the middle of the meeting. And I said, why would that be? South Korea's nuclear weapons would be legal, they would withdraw from the NPT. And they would be legitimate because they face routine threats from an illegal nuclear weapons state. So why would the world's countries possibly sanction South Korea? And he didn't have an answer. My point is, many South Koreans might think that this would isolate their country and there's no reason to believe that. As long as they have friends in the world, who will speak for them in the Security Council, there's no reason in the world for South Korea to suffer diplomatically or economically from this."

 Are you telling South Korea to convince the U.S. and EU to support its exit from the NPT?

"I'd say yes," Press replies. "But I think that conversation should probably take about an hour. From a South Korean standpoint, whether it's worth it to go nuclear, that's a complicated decision. But if South Korea decides to do this, to explain to the United States and to friendly countries in Europe why it requires to do so, it's the simplest thing in the world. How can Great Britain say no, you don't deserve them? And yet we in Great Britain do, when they don't face any kind of a threat like you? Can France say that? So I think yes, you should formally declare that you intend to withdraw from the NPT."

 Progressive experts in South Korea do not believe North Korea will use its nuclear weapons. And they seem to believe that the North is developing nuclear weapons only as a deterrent against the U.S. threat.

"The progressives in South Korea will be horrified to find out that we agree with them," laughs Press. "I believe that North Korea's nuclear weapons are for regime security and for defense principally. The North Korean military has eroded dramatically. It is a shell of its former self. And I believe that North Korea's nuclear weapons are a crucial regime security tool. Now, if that's true, people might say, well, then why do we think South Korea needs nuclear weapons if the North simply wants to defend itself? And the answer, I think, is, because war could still happen on the Korean Peninsula. It could happen in many different ways. That war could happen through mistake, through some sort of escalated crisis that gets out of control, or through the partial collapse" of North Korean regime.

"And the fact that North Korea has these regime-security weapons means that it will be very difficult to prevent a conventional war from going nuclear. And that's why it's essential that South Korea has whatever capability it needs to maximize its deterrent capability. If war comes, I pray that South Korea has the most powerful deterrent [possible], whether that's in South Korean hands or the United States hands. In my opinion South Korea would be better off if it had its own."

 Do you think if South Korea had nuclear weapons, this would result in formally recognizing North Korea as a nuclear power?

"North Korean nuclear weapons as decreed by international law are illegal," Lind says. "North Korea is in violation of several UN sanctions, and has been the recipient of sanctions because of that. So nothing has changed in that sense."

 North Korea's nuclear missiles are capable of striking targets in Japan. In that case, couldn't Japan cite Article 10 as well? And there are concerns that South Korea's possession of nuclear arms could trigger a domino effect in the region.

Lind disagrees. "Japan is in an extremely different situation in all aspects. It's not the direct adversary of North Korea. Also the U.S. and Japan are cooperating extremely closely, probably more closely than ever, with respect to managing China's rise. So that alliance is just not in trouble to the same degree that the U.S.-South Korea one is."

"Then the last point is the incredible difference in domestic attitudes toward nuclear technology. Something like 60-70 percent of South Koreans favor this move. But obviously, Japan has a history of first two nuclear strikes by the United States. And then the [Fukushima disaster] So the Japanese people are not supportive of this. There are several dominoes that didn't fall, for example, Soviet Union, China, North Korea. It's just very far from an automatic outcome."

 Once South Korea announces its exit from the NPT to the UN Security Council, how would China and Russia respond?

"To me, there's two issues, and I think they're both solvable," Press says. "Issue No. 1 is, would South Korea suffer any UN Security Council resolutions that sanction them or punish them? Three of the Security Council members who have vetoes I believe can all be brought along to be on South Korea's side on this. So there's not going to be a Security Council resolution against South Korea."

"The other question is, would South Korea suffer in some other manner, from bilateral economic sanctions from one country or another. There can be some concerns about the economic relationship with China. China will not like it at all. That's the big cost. It's going to harm the South Korean and Chinese relationship for some time. If I were South Korea, I would just explain to China that China has nuclear weapons. And we don't desire this, we're only doing this because your partner has got nuclear weapons. So if you want to solve the problem of nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula, our friends in Beijing, the way to do so is to sit down with your friends in Pyongyang."

"I think China, after an immediate angry reaction, can be brought along to see that South Korea is not the problem. The problem is North Korea. But if they can't, and if they decide that South Korea must be severely economically punished through bilateral sanctions, it's a strong signal that China does not have your interest to start with. That's a sign that they are not on your side," he adds.
Apple will launch Apple TV+ streaming services in Korea on Nov. 4 in partnership with SK Broadband on the back of the huge success of rival Netflix.

Recently, Disney+ teamed up with LG Uplus and KT to launch its streaming video services in Korea as well.

But unlike Netflix or Disney+, where customers can use their set-top boxes and simply download an app, Apple TV+ requires a separate set-top box. SK Broadband is selling the boxes as part of a 36-month installment plan for W6,600 a month (US$1=W1,169).

Users then have to pay a W6,500 monthly fee, though iPhone and Mac users can watch the service on their screens as well.

The combined cost of the set-top box and subscription boils down to around W13,000 a month, which is more or less the same as Netflix.

Apple TV+ will unveil the Korean-language original series "Dr. Brain" with the launch of the service here.


The United Nations and the African Union condemned the military takeover. The Norwegian Refugee Council issued a statement Monday appealing to Sudan's rulers to protect civilians and keep commitments to allow humanitarian aid to reach millions of people affected by war.

The coup in Sudan could also affect Ethiopia's ongoing crisis in the Tigray region, which is spreading and has seen a recent escalation. The Ethiopian government may have cause to worry if the Sudan military remains in power, Horner said. "The concern is that the military, if it is indeed in the ascendancy and there is no mediation from civilians, that they will more robustly perhaps support the Tigrayans as they fight against the central government in Addis Ababa," he said.

Egypt favors military rule in Sudan, while Ethiopia will likely back a civilian transition in hopes that the potential for improved relations will move the needle on the dam, Horner told VOA. "Egypt is very keen to see a military dispensation in Sudan because they believe that they will take care of their interests best when it comes to representing Egyptian concerns over the dam," Horner said.

"I would say key in today's considerations really are questions of the ongoing conflict between Egypt and Ethiopia and Sudan over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam," said Jonas Horner, a senior analyst and Sudan expert at the International Crisis Group. The longstanding dispute over Ethiopia's hydroelectric dam stems from Ethiopia's insistence on building and filling the dam to help alleviate poverty in the country, and Egypt and Sudan's opposition to it, Horner said.

Monday's military coup in Sudan crippled the nation's leadership and could have sweeping regional implications, including inflaming already bitter disputes among Sudan's neighbors, analysts say.

Monday's military takeover was triggered by a fear that the military was losing control over Sudan's Sovereign Council as the deadline for transfer to civilian rule was approaching, analysts said.

Khartoum was in political and social chaos after Sudan's military chief, Lieutenant General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, declared a state of emergency and dissolved the joint civilian-military council that has run the country for the past two years. Protesters took to the streets, derisively chanting Burhan's name and singing Sudan's national anthem.

Medical sources say dozens of people have been injured in the protests, and at least seven people died in clashes with security forces in Khartoum amid an internet and telecommunications shutdown. With Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other officials of the ruling Sovereign Council in detention, the future of the nation's leadership is in turmoil.

"I think the thing that the military was most fearful of losing [was] control of the Sovereignty Council  the executive authority in the country," said Cameron Hudson, a senior fellow at the U.S.-based Atlantic Council's Africa Center.

Internal pressure from hundreds of thousands of protesters who came out from different towns across Sudan in recent weeks demanding civilian rule made Sudan's top military leader feel "under siege," Hudson said. "This is a reaction internally to release the pressure that they were feeling," Hudson told VOA.

The coup seems to have the backing of the Sudan Armed Forces and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces under General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, some analysts said. But Hudson warned that the army might be divided on this. "What we don't know and what we should be fearful of is there are divisions within the military, especially in the younger ranks, the lower ranks of the military," he said. "We should not be surprised if we see a counter coup of some kind of younger military officers who push back against what happened."

The military takeover looks hurried and poorly planned, according to Hudson, and may have dangerous consequences, including street violence, which escalated Monday. "It's a very dangerous situation, because you have the military trying to assert its control, and now you have people taking to the streets in protest," he said.

Sudan's neighbors are watching closely, possibly fearing a spillover effect, Horner said. "There are plenty of autocratic governments that are in Sudan's immediate neighborhood and then even across the Red Sea and elsewhere, too, who will concern themselves with what inspiring effect a successful civilian transition might have to their own populations," he said.
Shanghai Disneyland fined for unqualified T-shirts

By:Wu Qiong | From:english.eastday.com | 2021-10-26 15:34

The Shanghai International Theme Park Company Limited affiliated with Disney has recently received an administrative penalty, due to unqualified T-shirts. It was fined 202,738.34 RMB, and 83,683.06 RMB of illegal income was also confiscated.

The enforcement was conducted by the Shanghai Pudong New Area Market Supervision and Administration Bureau.

The type of the long-sleeve T-shirt is 111Q120D275. A total of 610 pieces have already been sold through the companys sales terminals, while there were 382 pieces sold through another company.

Before this, the company had been punished several times because of manufacturing and selling substandard products.

Apart from that, since 2017, it has been fined over 700,000 RMB due to violation of customs regulations, food cases, and non-conforming fire-fighting facilities.
Yayoi Kusamas red Pumpkin sculpture awaits Chinese buyers

By:Wu Qiong | From:english.eastday.com | 2021-10-26 15:33

Valued at over one million dollars, Japanese artist Yayoi Kusamas iconic sculpture finally arrived in Shanghai on October 25, waiting for buyers attention at the upcoming import fair.

(Yayoi Kusamas red Pumpkin sculpture in Japan)

Among the first batch of bonded exhibits at the 4th China International Import Expo (CIIE), it was shipped out of the Waigaoqiao Bonded Area and transported to the main venue of the Expo.

The exhibit was wrapped in a wooden box (size: 3*3*3 meters). To avoid collisions with other exhibits, the box will be kept closed for several days, and the pumpkin sculptures veil will be lifted at the last minute before the opening of the Expo.

(The exhibit on its way to the main venue of CIIE)

(Photos/Shanghai Observer)
Exhibition recounts history of Modern French painting

By:Wu Qiong | From:english.eastday.com | 2021-10-26 15:32

Impressionism, which emerged in France, is undoubtedly of epoch-making significance in the history of Western art. Breaking the boundaries of the academic school, it changed people's aesthetic concepts, promoted a revolution in art concepts and painting techniques, and opened the door to modern art. After this art genre, what changes has the French art scene experienced?

80 authentic masterpieces of 29 world-renowned artists and founders of modern art schools have been gathered, thanks to an exhibition near the Bund.

Themed From Monet, Bonnard to MatisseMasterpieces of Modern French Painting, the exhibition at the Bund One Art Museum was opened last week.

(Pierrot and Harlequin, by Pablo Picasso)

(Portrait of Jean Monet Wearing a Hat with a Pompom, by Claude Monet)

From Boudin and Monet to Picasso and Dufy, the exhibition encompasses most of the French modern artists, an epitome of French modern painting trends.

Among the exhibited artworks, there are nearly 30 pieces by French painter Pierre Bonnard, who was famous for his use of colors and is described as one of the greatest colorists of the 20th century. He is also known for being one of the founding members of the group of symbolist painters called Les Nabis.

(Le Cannet, by Pierre Bonnard)

The exhibits are borrowed from the Fondation Bemberg and RMN, one of the famous French art collection foundations. As a well-known art institution in France, it has been dedicated to presenting the art collections of the late George Bemberg to the public.

(Portrait of a Little Boy, by Paul Gauguin)

(View of Antibes, by Henri Matisse)

Exhibition information:

Duration: Oct. 16, 2021Feb. 20, 2022

Opening hours: 10:00-18:00

Location: 2F, Bund One Art Museum, No. 2 East Yanan Road

Ticket price: 188 RMB
3E International Fair offers opportunities for job and startup seekers

By:Wu Qiong | From:english.eastday.com | 2021-10-26 15:27

My major is management science and engineering. I know some basic programming and have some PM experiences, Samuel, a fresh graduate from Jiangsu University, said to an employer at the 3E International Fair held Saturday.

After a brief talk with the French company, the young man from Ghana got an interview invitation, a good start for his job-hunting that day.

Like Samuel, over 1,000 people (including graduates from universities in the Yangtze River Delta region, overseas returnees and expats) took part in the 3E International Fair (3E means Entrepreneurship, Employment, Enterprise) on October 23.

(Samuel at the fair)

This is the second edition of the 3E International Fair since 2020. This year, the number of job positions offered increased from 200 to 550, with fresh graduates from universities in Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai participating, and registered expats were from more than 30 countries and regions, according to Linda Painan, chairperson of The Expatriate Center (TEC), a non-profit organization for expats in Shanghai and one of the organizers of the Fair.

(Launch ceremony)

(Group photo of VIPs)

124 companies gathered to seek talents. 13 seminars and workshops in total were also organized, as well as 1-to-1 consultations and the holding of the Social Entrepreneurship Competition finals. Hundreds of young people gathered here at Shanghai Mart (in Changning District) to pursue their dreams.

(1-to-1 consultations are provided to the participants.)

(Business leaders talk with a job seeker.)

Art Logics, a French company specializing in testing technology, set up a company here in Shanghai in 2009. It has recently moved to Changning District while planning to expand its market in China. The company is therefore looking for engineers. NYU Shanghai was also hiring people. Except for some foreign teachers, staff at NYU Shanghai are mainly Chinese employees. But as we are a Sino-US joint venture university, we want talents with foreign language abilities and cross-cultural communication skills to join us, said Ms. Zheng from the HR department.

The Fair also developed a bilingual online mini-program in WeChat for job seekers convenience. When the event concluded, there were 241 applications for jobs via both online and offline platforms and 45 people passed their first-round interviews on the spot.

(Group photo of the final teams of the Social Entrepreneurship Competition)

The Social Entrepreneurship Competition brings together innovation and international think-tanks to inspire more like-minded people and help to bring domestic entrepreneurship to another level. As a speaker, Colin from Canada took the responsibility of mentoring a Chinese team named JS Creative, who would then pitch their ideas to the judges about their products and services in child safety education. In Colins opinion, the team is very good as they take the social responsibility to help educate families about child safety and have protected thousands of children so far. Eventually, team JS Creative won the first prize in the adult category.

Shanghais entrepreneurial environment is big and rich, added Colin, and many people are willing to fund even small startups.

(Team JS Creative gives a speech at the final competition.)

(Colin [right] with an employer)

Colin joined the 3E International Fair for the second time, consulting for free for startup teams. He is also delighted that his own company got a better booth position this year. He enjoys being a speaker and mentor for others, as he always wants to give back and help the next generation to succeed by sharing his experiences with them.

The event was held by The Expatriate Center and the Global Shapers Community Shanghai Zizhu, with support from the local government and several foreign commerce chambers.

(Photos provided by TEC)
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Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Offers New Health Plan Designed to Empower and Reward Members for Health Engagement
(The Center Square)  Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita commended the National School Boards Association for backing down from their request the Biden administration use the FBI and Secret Service to investigate parents speaking out at school board meetings across the country, but says thats not enough.

The Biden administration, Rokita pointed out today in a press release, has still not apologized for its own threat against parents.

Most Hoosier educators are no doubt as appalled as anyone by Joe Bidens anti-parent bias, Rokita said in the statement Monday. Now is a time for Hoosiers to unite.

The attorney general specifically called on school boards in the state and also the Indiana Department of Education to renounce the memo issued by the U.S. Department of Justice, which directed the FBI, Secret Service and other federal law enforcement agencies to work with local law enforcement to monitor parents who are seen as a threat to school board members or school administrators.

On Oct. 18, Rokita led a group of 17 state attorneys general in penning a letter to President Joe Biden and Attorney General Merrick Garland asking them to cease making threats against parents and asserting the First Amendment rights of parents to speak their minds to teachers, administrators and school board members must be protected.

Last week, the president of the board of the Indiana School Boards Association, Tom Simpson, said the association had not formally asked for a retraction of the letter sent to the Biden administration by the National School Boards Association, to which it belongs. He also said they had not had any discussion about withdrawing from the national association, as Pennsylvania had said it was doing.

Simpson said that he was not aware of any specific threats to school board members in Indiana.

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The most recent incident of a heated school board meeting in the state actually involved the reverse scenario  a school board member in Henry County who went after a parent, walking around the dais in an aggressive manner toward a father, who was seated and calm, who had called him an idiot a few minutes earlier. The school board member had to be physically blocked by a school resource officer who was present, who then turned and asked the father to leave the meeting. The man complied and left without incident.

The most-cited heated school board meeting in Indiana was the one that took place in Carmel, north of Indianapolis, on July 26, when a gun fell out of the pocket of an elderly man and onto the floor. The man was immediately taken out of the room by a police officer who was present and saw what had happened.

In his statement Monday, Rokita called on the Indiana Department of Education to speak up on the Department of Justice memo released Oct. 4 that announced the FBI will work with local law enforcement agencies to prosecute parents viewed as a threat to school board members or administrators.

Indiana school boards as well as the Department of Education should denounce the DOJ memo, Rokita said. Sheriffs departments and other police agencies should consider declining any DOJ meetings aimed at repressing parental participation. And everyone involved should work together to facilitate free speech by protecting all participants at school board meetings.

Indiana's Secretary of Education, Katie Jenner, has not issued any public statement on the issue. Calls to the Indiana Department of Education on Monday afternoon were not returned.

The Indiana Sheriffs Association did not immediately return a call seeking comment.
Press Release

October 26, 2021 De Lima seeks probe into recent forceful takeover of BENECO Opposition Senator Leila M. de Lima urged Congress to investigate the recently reported takeover of the Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) by the National Electrification Administration (NEA) with the assistance of heavily armed police officers. De Lima, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare and Rural Development, filed Proposed Senate Resolution (SR) No. 937 seeking to determine whether the force and intrusion carried out by the police in the BENECO takeover is upon lawful order. "With the uproar that this incident has caused, there is a clear need to determine whether the NEA's takeover was valid and legal under our relevant laws," she said. "An inquiry into this incident is also necessary to ensure the regularity of police operations nationwide in order to guarantee the safety and protection of Filipinos," she added. Based on media reports, at the behest of the NEA, about 50 policemen deployed by the Cordillera Police Office at Camp Dangwa in Benguet province last Oct. 18 allegedly broke into the offices of BENECO along Baguio's South Drive to allow lawyer Omar Mayo, a NEA-appointed caretaker, to assume control over one of the country's top-performing rural electric cooperatives. The takeover also reportedly allowed lawyer Ana Maria Paz Rafael-Banaag to assume as the utility's general manager despite public outcry and protests over her alleged ineligibility to run BENECO. As a result, employees did not report for work and instead staged a sit-down protest because they were "scared by policemen in full battle gear who broke into their offices", according to Mark Anthony Amisola, Vice President of BENECO Employees Labor Union. While employees and member-consumer-owners (MCOs) managed to take back BENECO headquarters last Oct. 21, De Lima underscored the need to ascertain whether NEA exceeded its authority in taking over BENECO despite the absence of any indication that the latter is an ailing cooperative. "NEA's mandate should be reviewed to ascertain whether it provides sufficient safeguards against abuses that run contrary to the spirit of the Philippine Cooperative Code," she said. Moreover, the lady Senator from Bicol said the police's involvement in the takeover also casts further questions as it has become apparent that they cultivated a culture of fear among the citizenry owing to their excessive display of force, among other irregularities, in their conduct of police operations. "If the reports are any indication, the manner in which the police conducted their operations to carry out a relatively benign suspension order was not only excessive but also completely unnecessary in terms of the show and display of excessive force against unarmed civilians," she said. "Ang nakakagalit at kasuklam-suklam nga dito: Sa gitna ng pandemya, at sa panahon ng pagbangon sa katatapos lang na kalamidad, naaatim pa talaga na ipadanas sa mga nasalanta at naghihikahos ang ganitong walang pakundangang proseso para lamang mailuklok lang ang sarili sa poder," De Lima said in a separate statement.
Press Release

October 26, 2021 Data privacy law can't be used to defy subpoenas - Gordon Senator Richard J. Gordon today thanked National Privacy Commission (NPC) Commissioner Raymund Enriquez Liboro for his earlier pronouncement that the law on data privacy rights cannot be invoked as an excuse to evade legal proceedings. Gordon, who chairs the Senate blue ribbon committee, said Liboro's pronouncement has now cleared any dispute whether those invited to attend the Senate hearing can conveniently hide behind the law protecting data privacy rights. "We are glad that more people, both in the public and private sectors, and on their own initiative, speak up to uphold the rule of law," he said. "Liboro's initiative and insights are greatly appreciated by the Blue Ribbon Committee and, if I may speak for the whole, by the Senate," he added. Last Oct. 21, Liboro issued an official statement to clarify that the 2012 Data Privacy Act cannot be invoked in refusing to comply with subpoenas issued by government investigating bodies and evade legal proceedings. The law, he said, "does not prohibit the disclosure of personal or sensitive personal information (collectively, personal data) when necessary for purposes of complying with validly issued subpoenas by government investigating bodies." Liboro's pronouncement came as the Senate blue ribbon committee is investigating the alleged anomalous multi-billion transactions the government entered with Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation (Pharmally) for the purchase of medical supplies. Pharmally executives and other resource persons have been refusing to disclose information and documents on ostensibly legal grounds, such as those based on the Data Privacy Act of 2013. It may be recalled that Pharmally Pharmaceutical's corporate secretary Mohit Dargani, and president Twinkle Dargani have been cited in contempt and were ordered to be arrested for refusing to submit documents vital to the Senate investigation. Pharmally Pharmaceutical Director Linconn Ong has also repeatedly refused to divulge information, citing what he referred to as "trade secret" when his company was able to corner big contracts for the procurement of COVID-19-related supplies. The President's friend and former economic adviser Michael Yang has refused to disclose vital information about his alleged dealings with Pharmally Pharmaceutical which he purportedly financed to corner big government contracts. TigerPhil Marketing Corp. President Albert Sy has also refused to divulge vital information as to where he sourced the face masks he sold to Pharmally Pharmaceutical, citing that he merely got them from his "Chinese community." Based on the Commission on Audit report in 2020, the Procurement Service - Department of Budget and Management ordered 114.95 million pieces of surgical masks and 1.32 million pieces of face shields in April and May 2020. Pharmally sold these face masks at PhP27.72 per piece to PS-DBM, despite the availability of cheaper items from other suppliers. It also sold personal protective equipment at PhP1,910 each when the market price was PhP945 only. The Senate blue ribbon committee will scheduled to resume its 13th hearing on Thursday at 11 a.m.
QatarEnergy also known as Qatar Petroleum has signed an agreement with ExxonMobil Canada to take part in oil exploration Hampden, a town in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador, Zawya reports.

The state-run company will control 40 per cent of the exploration deal.

We are pleased to conclude this agreement which represents our first entry into offshore Canada, in an established producing basin with the leading producer in the area, said Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, Qatar Minister of State for Energy Affairs and president and CEO of QatarEnergy.

The transaction, Zawya notes, has already received all necessary approvals from the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB).

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the C-NLOPB for supporting the transaction, and to thank ExxonMobil, our strategic partner, for their cooperation and efforts to conclude this agreement, said Al-Kaabi. The deal is the first in the North American region the company which is one of the worlds top liquefied natural gas (LNG) suppliers.

The exploration side, approximately 1,100 meters deep, is located 450 kilometers east of the provinces capital city of St. Johns.

Written by: Jaber Ali on October 25, 2021. on October 26, 2021.
Arab Authority for Agricultural Investment and Development (AAAID), an investment institution based in Khartoum with focus on agriculture investment, has announced plans to inject $220 million in Egypts agriculture sector.

The funding will be allocated to the small farmers and accounts for a fifth of the institutions 2019 capital, which according to its website amounted to $1.1 billion, Arab Finance reports.

AAAID, established in 1976 and made of 21 Arab countries according to its website, contributes to the capital of 55 major agricultural companies across 12 Arab countries.

The institution also provides programs to support small farmers and develop the local communities in which it operates. AAAIDs corporate investments in both existing companies and companies under implementation fall under four main sectors; where 47% of these investments is in the agricultural manufacturing sector, 25% is in animal production, 24% is in plant production, and 4% is in the services sector.
The Biden Administration has suspended the disbursement of $700 million in aid to Sudan in the wake a military coup and arrest of several politicians including Prime Minister Abdulla Hamdok.

Ned Price, spokesman of the US State Department, said the dispersal of the entire aid package would be paused, because the funds were intended to support the countrys democratic transition.

Any change to the transitional government by force risks assistance in our bilateral relationship more broadly, Price warned, adding the US is evaluating the next step for Sudan aid.

Military officials should immediately release and ensure the safety of all detained political actors, fully restore the civilian-led transitional government, and refrain from any violence against protesters, including the use of live ammunition, he added.

Sudans ruling military council, running the country with civilians in the wake of Omar Bashirs ouster, arrested Hamdok and several other politicians.

Gen. Abdelfattah Al-Burhan, leader of the council also on Monday declared a state of emergency and dissolved the Sovereign Council.

At least seven people have been killed and more than 100 injured as people loyal to Hamdoktook to the streets to reject the coup, an official of the health ministry has said, Daily Sabah reports.

The army fired at protestors in front of the Sudanese army headquarters.
According to information published by Colombo Page on October 26, 2021, the visiting frigate HMS Kent engaged in a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with Sri Lanka Navy off Colombo and left the island on 24th October 2021, Sri Lanka Navy Media Unit said.

Follow Navy Recognition on Google News at this link

Medium endurance cutter SLNS Samudura (Picture source: Twitter account of paramilipic)

Subsequent to her port call in Colombo, its Commanding Officer, Commander Matthew Sykes met with Deputy Chief of Staff of the Navy and Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Upul De Silva at the Western Naval Command Headquarters on 23rd October.

After having conducted a successful Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with SLNS Samudura off Colombo, HMS Kent departed the island on 24th October 2021.

SLNS Samudura (P261) is a United States Coast Guard medium endurance cutter. She was built by the American Ship Building Company in Lorain, Ohio, and launched on 18 March 1967. She was commissioned on February 19, 2005.

The Medium Endurance Cutter or WMEC is a type of United States Coast Guard Cutter mainly consisting of the 270-foot (82 m) Famous- and 210-foot (64 m) Reliance-class cutters. These larger cutters are under control of Area Commands (Atlantic Area or Pacific Area). These cutters have adequate accommodations for crew to live onboard and can do 6 to 8-week patrols.
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[October 26, 2021] VMware Speeds Service Providers' Move to Multi-Cloud To bring innovative apps and services to customers more quickly, service providers are betting heavily on the cloud. And as apps and data continue to distribute across clouds and locations, service providers require flexibility to deploy and consistently manage workloads anywhere. That is why VMware (NYSE: VMW) is today unveiling enhancements to its Telco Cloud Platform designed to help service providers speed their multi-cloud transformation. "With network modernization efforts well underway, service providers are now focused on how to monetize 5G services. And how to do it fast. Thanks to cloud-native architectures, time to market for launching new services has moved from months and years to days and weeks," said Sanjay Uppal, senior vice president and general manager, Service Provider and Edge, VMware. "Over 150 CSPs around the world rely on VMware Telco Cloud Platform to accelerate time to revenue while providing automation and consistent operations across networks for 4G, 5G and beyond. The VMware Telco Cloud Platform provides multi-cloud capabilities from the core to the edge without locking the service provider into a single cloud architecture or deployment. It thereby delivers the agility and speed our customers need for their massive 5G deployments." The enhancements to VMware Telco Cloud Platform include: VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Public Cloud will let service providers seamlessly incorporate public clouds into their overall 5G architecture.

will let service providers seamlessly incorporate public clouds into their overall 5G architecture. VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Edge will provide the foundation for delivery of next-generation communications and compute services at the service provider and enterprise edge.

will provide the foundation for delivery of next-generation communications and compute services at the service provider and enterprise edge. New VMware Telco Cloud Automation capabilities will enable consistent, multi-cloud operations across the entire network. In addition, support for network slicing will be added through Project Lattice , now in tech preview.

capabilities will enable consistent, multi-cloud operations across the entire network. In addition, support for network slicing will be added through , now in tech preview. VMware's RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) platform will unlock app innovation and velocity across radio access networks (RAN). Introducing VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Public Cloud Service providers have started to embrace public clouds as a part of their network architecture. As network functions are deployed across on-premises telco clouds and public clouds, service providers require a platform that enables consistent multi-cloud operations and automation. Introduced today, VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Public Cloud, powered by VMware Cloud, offers service providers choice and flexibility to run their workloads in multi-cloud environments with ease. An extension of VMware Telco Cloud Platform, VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Public Cloud is comprised of the same field-proven virtualization solution, carrier-grade container-as-a-service (CaaS), and multi-layer automation, consistent across core, edge, RAN, and now with public cloud. VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Public Cloud will provide service providers with: The ability to migrate telco and IT workloads to public cloud infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), specifically VMware Cloud on AWS, quickly and cost efficiently while having the flexibility to bring them back to the on-premises telco clouds, if and when necessary.

A choice to deploy leading network functions, through VMware's partner ecosystem, on the best clouds to serve their functional purposes based on cost, availability, and performance.

Consistent operations with multi-layer automation across any telco cloud - from core, edge, RAN, to public cloud. VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Public Cloud is expected to be generally available in VMware's Q4 FY22, initially supporting service providers to deploy their network functions on VMware Cloud on AWS environments. Learn more about VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Public Cloud here. Announcing VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Edge At VMworld 2021, VMware introduced VMware Edge, a product portfolio that will enable organizations to run, manage and better secure edge-native apps. Service providers will play a key role in VMware's unified edge platform strategy. That's why today VMware is announcing VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Edge, a variation of Telco Cloud Platform adapted to host and manage multi-vendor network edge solutions. An open and multi-cloud platform, VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Edge will provide: A foundation for deploying next-generation communication services, including Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC), Private Mobile Networking (PMN) and Content Delivery Networks (CDNs), among others.

Ability to deploy edge-native app at the service provider edge or the enterprise edge.

Automation and operational consistency across edges and other network sites.

A bridge to VMware's extensive partner ecosystem spanning hyperscalers, network equipment providers, ISVs, edge-native app developers, and more. An example of a VMware Edge ecosystem partner is Lenovo (News - Alert) . Its comprehensive edge product portfolio coupled with VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Edge will enable automated edge services that will accelerate time to value. The combined solution will provide a strong foundation for edge deployments across different market segments. Learn more about VMware Telco Cloud Platform - Edge here. New Telco Cloud Automation Capabilities Will Enable Multi-Cloud Operations Spanning the entire network, Telco Cloud Automation is the orchestration and automation engine for Telco Cloud Platform. It enables consistent operations and cloud-first approach to management and orchestration by abstracting cloud complexities and exposing the new multi-cloud ecosystem through standard telco interfaces and unified resources. VMware today announced new capabilities for Telco Cloud Automation, including: Consistent Multi-Cloud Operations: Telco Cloud Automation customers will be able to leverage Amazon Web Services' (News - Alert) (AWS) public cloud resources through either VMware Cloud on AWS or Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS).

Telco Cloud Automation customers will be able to leverage Amazon Web Services' (News - Alert) (AWS) public cloud resources through either VMware Cloud on AWS or Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (EKS). Network Slicing: VMware today unveiled Project Lattice, a tech preview, that will extend Telco Cloud Automation capabilities with 3GPP standard-compliant network slicing management. This will enable service providers to plan, design, and instantiate end-to-end network slices across the RAN, edge, core and transport network domains. An add-on module to Telco Cloud Automation, the new network slicing capability will help service providers unify these domains and close the gap between the delivered services and required network resources from physical or cloud infrastructure.

VMware today unveiled Project Lattice, a tech preview, that will extend Telco Cloud Automation capabilities with 3GPP standard-compliant network slicing management. This will enable service providers to plan, design, and instantiate end-to-end network slices across the RAN, edge, core and transport network domains. An add-on module to Telco Cloud Automation, the new network slicing capability will help service providers unify these domains and close the gap between the delivered services and required network resources from physical or cloud infrastructure. Accelerate onboarding and instantiation of network functions: Telco Cloud Automation will offer new designer capabilities to support more lifecycle automation options and accelerate onboarding and instantiation of network functions through automated CaaS and infrastructure customizations.

Telco Cloud Automation will offer new designer capabilities to support more lifecycle automation options and accelerate onboarding and instantiation of network functions through automated CaaS and infrastructure customizations. Network operability improvements: Telco Cloud Automation will enable new automated Day 2 operations for CaaS operations, BIOS and firmware upgrades that reduce maintenance time while allowing greater management flexibility across data centers.

Telco Cloud Automation will enable new automated Day 2 operations for CaaS operations, BIOS and firmware upgrades that reduce maintenance time while allowing greater management flexibility across data centers. Augmented CI/CD automation: Updates will make it easier to integrate Telco Cloud Automation into existing CI/CD pipelines with new SDK and enable a service provider to decrease new app deployment and update time-reducing integration costs and OpEx.

Updates will make it easier to integrate Telco Cloud Automation into existing CI/CD pipelines with new SDK and enable a service provider to decrease new app deployment and update time-reducing integration costs and OpEx. Infrastructure Automation Enhancements: Telco Cloud Automation will also offer Mount Bryce driver support, and Precision Time Protocol (PTP) network function automation. These integrations will help automate away manual infrastructure-level operations that prove essential for running vRAN and other high-performance apps. New Telco Cloud Automation capabilities will be generally available in VMware's Q4 FY22 apart from Project Lattice, which is in tech preview. Learn more about VMware Telco Cloud Automation for multi-cloud operations here and Project Lattice for network slicing here. Introducing VMware RIC The RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) is a new function introduced by the O-RAN Alliance that enables service providers to deploy cloud-native control and management apps in the RAN. VMware is today introducing VMware RIC, a platform that abstracts the underlying RAN infrastructure and provides developer APIs for xApps and rApps to program the RAN. VMware RIC platform will consist of two RICs that can run independent of each other, or together: VMware Centralized RIC , an implementation of the non-real-time RAN Intelligent Controller (non-RT RIC) in the O-RAN Alliance reference architecture. It will manage and host rApps that have control functions with response timing greater than one second.

, an implementation of the non-real-time RAN Intelligent Controller (non-RT RIC) in the O-RAN Alliance reference architecture. It will manage and host rApps that have control functions with response timing greater than one second. VMware Distributed RIC, an implementation of the near-real-time RAN Intelligent Controller (near-RT RIC) in the O-RAN Alliance reference architecture. It will manage and host xApps that have control functions with response timing less than one second, typically on the order of 10's of milliseconds. Jump over to this press release to learn more about VMware RIC and how it will seamlessly integrate with traditional RAN, vRAN an O-RAN compliant infrastructure leveraging a large xApp and rApp ecosystem. Connect with Us at the Telco Innovation Summit Presented by VMware and Intel (News - Alert) , the Telco Innovation Summit will bring together leading service providers, technology partners, and industry experts to discuss strategic priorities for 5G, RAN and edge network modernization. Join the conversation on November 4. Additional Resources: Read a perspective on today's news from Stephen Spellicy, vice president of product marketing and business development, Service Provider and Edge, VMware

Visit telco.vmware.com.

Bookmark the VMware Telco Cloud blog

Get all VMware Telco Cloud updates on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn About VMware VMware is a leading provider of multi-cloud services for all apps, enabling digital innovation with enterprise control. As a trusted foundation to accelerate innovation, VMware software gives businesses the flexibility and choice they need to build the future. Headquartered in Palo Alto (News - Alert) , California, VMware is committed to building a better future through the company's 2030 Agenda. For more information, please visit www.vmware.com/company. VMware, Telco Cloud Platform, VMware Cloud and VMworld are registered trademarks or trademarks of VMware, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and other jurisdictions. VMware makes no guarantee that services announced in preview or beta will become available at a future date. The information in this press release is for informational purposes only and may not be incorporated into any contract. This article may contain hyperlinks to non-VMware websites that are created and maintained by third parties who are solely responsible for the content on such websites. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005717/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Postmedia and Narrowcontent Launch CanadianFamilyOffices.com Postmedia Network Inc. ("Postmedia") and Narrowcontent Inc. ("Narrowcontent") are proud to announce the official launch of CanadianFamilyOffices.com and the Canadian Family Offices newsletter - offering an in-depth, unbiased look at wealth management and Canada's family office industry. An explosion of wealth in Canada has many newly wealthy families and entrepreneurs looking for help to manage their holdings. Family offices are a way for ultra-high-net-worth individuals or families to manage a number of finance, investment and personal business matters all in one place. From investing to philanthropy and other administrative matters, a family office brings the management of clients' personal and family wealth into one place with access to a number of advisors and services. "We are pleased to bring together the high-quality journalism of the Financial Post, Postmedia's product innovation and Narrowcontent's expertise to launch a new resource for high net worth individuals," said Lucinda Chodan, senior vice-president, editorial, for Postmedia. Exceptional Content CanadianFamilyOffices.com and the Canadian Family Offices newsletter are powered by best-in-class journalism from the Financial Post as well as a network of xperienced financial writers from across Canada.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying's Regular Press Conference on September 27, 2021

2021-09-27 22:10

As agreed upon by the two sides, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Josep Borrell will hold the 11th China-EU High Level Strategic Dialogue on September 28. Against the backdrop of rising instability and uncertainty in international situations, it is necessary for China and the EU to conduct strategic communication and strengthen coordination and cooperation. The two sides will exchange views on China-EU relations, dialogues and cooperation in various areas, and international and regional issues to promote sound and steady development of China-EU relations and jointly respond to global challenges. This strategic dialogue will be convened via videoconference.

CCTV: Through unremitting efforts of the Chinese government, Ms. Meng Wanzhou returned to China on the night of September 25. This has heartened the Chinese people and drawn much attention from international media, which is widely believed as a victory for China. Do you have any comment?

Hua Chunying: The Meng Wanzhou incident is a political frame-up and persecution against a Chinese citizen, an act designed to hobble Chinese high-tech companies as represented by Huawei. Through unremitting efforts of the Chinese government, Ms. Meng Wanzhou has finally returned to her home country safe and sound. We are truly happy for this.

Since Meng was groundlessly detained in early December, 2018, our Party and the Chinese government have attached high importance and President Xi Jinping gave personal attention to this. The Foreign Ministry, together with the Chinese embassies in the US and Canada and the Chinese Consulate General in Vancouver, has worked at various levels and on multiple occasions, provided consular protection and assistance to Ms. Meng Wanzhou, and lodged solemn representations with the US and Canada, asking them to drop the erroneous charges against Meng and ensure her safe return to China as early as possible. Other departments concerned have also done a large amount of in-depth and careful work. The Chinese people have given their full support throughout this course, and an online petition demanding the immediate and unconditional release of Meng collected 15 million signatures within a short time. The news of Meng's return to China got 400 million thumbs-ups on the online platform of the China Media Group on the night of September 25, and that number is larger than the combined populations of the US and Canada. In these two days, some college students came to the Foreign Ministry to present flowers to thank the Chinese government for its efforts to rescue and help Meng return to China, saying that they are truly proud of their home country. This is so moving. Just as Ms. Meng said, "Without a powerful motherland, I would not have my freedom today." It is thanks to the relentless efforts of the Party and the Chinese government and the full support of all the Chinese people nationwide that Ms. Meng is able to come back to her home country safe and sound. Justice may be late, but never absent. This again fully proves that a strong China under the leadership of the CPC will always have the back of every single Chinese citizen. The Party and the Chinese government have the firm will and strong capability to firmly uphold the legitimate and legal rights and interests of Chinese citizens and companies as well as the interests and dignity of the Party and our nation. No force can hold back China's progress!

CNN: China stressed many times that the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor are completely different in essence from the Meng Wanzhou incident. On the same day when Meng Wanzhou regained freedom, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were allowed to return to Canada. Does China think the timing is purely coincidental? Some foreign individuals believe that the timing of the two Canadian citizens' release proves that China conducts "hostage diplomacy" and "coercive diplomacy". Some Chinese scholars say the arrest of the two Canadians, following Meng Wanzhou's arrest, is a common practice in major-power games, and is China's response to the US and its allies in a way that they can understand. How do you respond to that?

Hua Chunying: I noticed you said the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor are completely different in essence from the Meng Wanzhou incident. This is totally right. The Meng Wanzhou incident is completely different in essence from the two Canadians' cases. The Meng Wanzhou incident is a political frame-up and persecution against a Chinese citizen, an act designed to hobble Chinese high-tech companies. Now Ms. Meng Wanzhou has returned to China safe and sound. Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, suspected of committing crimes of endangering national security of China, applied for release on bail for medical reasons. After the confirmation from related departments and diagnosis of professional medical institutes of China and under the guarantee of the Canadian ambassador to China, the Chinese courts concerned decided to release them on bail in accordance with law and national security authorities enforced the decision.

We noticed that after relevant information came out on September 25, many Canadian media outlets pointed out that the Meng Wanzhou incident is full of politics and void of the rule of law, and that the Canadian side should not have done the dirty work for the US. Canada should draw lessons and act in ways that serve its own interests. As for the timing, I want to point out that the groundless detention of Meng Wanzhou is a serious mistake made by the US and Canada, which they should have corrected long ago.

You just cited some Chinese scholars' views. Chinese scholars can freely express their views on media platforms. Their points actually express the hope that the Chinese government and China's diplomacy can be more capable of better protecting the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and enterprises.

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi just had a phone call with the Foreign Minister of Venezuela. State Councilor Wang Yi stressed that China firmly defends the legitimate rights and interests of its people without any compromise. The practice of arbitrary detention of foreign nationals out of political motives and with made-up excuses of all forms is through-and-through coercion and bullying, and affronts international rules and human conscience. We believe that more countries will step forward as China did and defend all kinds of illegal unilateral sanctions, long-arm jurisdiction and political framing, jointly uphold international equity and justice and defend the basic norms governing international relations.

In these days, many young students came voluntarily to the foreign ministry to send flowers, and our Spokesperson's Office has been turned into a sea of rose blossoms. My colleagues and I are moved because the flowers represent Chinese people's sincere support and recognition for our Party and the government for their ability to firmly defend the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and businesses, and the public sentiment and opinion.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank all those who care for and support Ms. Meng, and my deep thanks also go to all friends who care for and support China's diplomacy. I hope Chinese people's aspiration can be shared through your reports to people of other countries.

Beijing Daily: According to reports, Canadian Foreign Minister Marc Garneau said in an interview on September 26 that Canada's "eyes are wide open", and the government is now following a fourfold approach to China: "coexist," "compete," "cooperate" and "challenge". What is China's response?

Hua Chunying: State-to-state relations can only be built on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefits. China-Canadian relations are no exception.

We hope Canada can keep its eyes wide open, have a clear understanding of the situations, and adopt rational and practical China policy.

MASTV: German media polls show that the Social Democratic Party (SPD) is currently leading in the election of the lower house of the parliament. As Chancellor Merkel is outgoing, how do you comment on China-Germany relations during her term in office? What is your expectation for the development of China-Germany relations going forward?

Hua Chunying: China-Germany relations have seen sound development overall in recent years. China attaches importance to developing relations with Germany, believing that the steady and sound development of China-Germany relations meets the shared interests of the two countries. China noticed that the preliminary results of the German general election have been released. We stand ready to work with the new German government to stay committed to upholding China-Germany relations and maintaining bilateral dialogue and cooperation, continue to advance practical cooperation between the two countries in the spirit of mutual benefits and openness, and promote sound and sustained progress of the bilateral relations in line with the principle of mutual respect and seeking common ground while shelving differences.

Chancellor Merkel attaches importance to developing relations with China. She visited China for 12 times during her term, and launched and co-chaired all six rounds of China-Germany inter-governmental consultations. She helped to deepen and substantiate practical cooperation and friendly interactions in various areas with China, which have brought tangible benefits to the two countries and the two peoples, and made contribution to China-Europe exchange and cooperation and world peace and stability. China highly appreciates this. Facts have shown that as long as China and Germany keep consolidating and deepening mutual trust and follow the approach that focuses on cooperation on an equal footing for mutual benefits, the bilateral relations can continue to achieve new development. We hope the new German government can carry on the practical and balanced China policy and consolidate the keynote of cooperation in China-Germany relations.

Bloomberg: To follow up on your comment on Meng Wanzhou. You listed a number of things that the Chinese government had done to secure her release. Does the government's involvement in securing her release from the Canadian detention, the Chinese ambassador accompanying her on her return to China, and the big display from state media when she landed over the weekend undercut the argument that Huawei is independent of the government of China?

Hua Chunying: The Party and the Chinese government attach great importance to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and enterprises. Chinese Ambassador to Canada Cong Peiwu accompanied Ms. Meng Wanzhou back to China.

You said these efforts seem to call into question Huawei's independence. As an American media outlet, you know that US leaders have mentioned to China on several occasions that they hope US companies can be provided with more convenience and a better environment in their operation in and cooperation with China. Does this mean that no American companies are independent? What is the relationship between US businesses and US government? The government of any country has the responsibility and obligation to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises and citizens.

The Paper: Some foreign media believe that Meng Wanzhou's smooth return to China marks a major victory in China's resolute diplomatic struggle on the Meng Wanzhou's case. Do you agree with that?

Hua Chunying: Thanks to the unremitting efforts of the Chinese government and the strong support of the Chinese people, Ms. Meng Wanzhou has returned to China safely after more than 1,000 days of groundless detention. If we are to use the word "victory", this is a victory of the Chinese people and the force of justice.

Hubei Media Group: We noticed that on September 26, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended and delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the Sustainable Development Forum 2021 via video link. Can you share more information?

Hua Chunying: Thank you for your attention to the Sustainable Development Forum hosted by China. As you said, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended and delivered a keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the Sustainable Development Forum 2021, where he further expounded on the profound connotation of the Global Development Initiative put forward by President Xi Jinping at the General Debate of the 76th UNGA, and proposed China's position and proposition on implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and promoting cooperation on international development.

The Global Development Initiative proposed by China calls on the international community to accelerate implementation of the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, pursue more robust, greener and more balanced global development and build a global community of development. This major initiative charts a course for global development cause and cooperation on international development. The world is facing the combined impacts of changes unseen in a century and the COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development faces new challenges. Against such a backdrop, the Global Development Initiative follows the core approach that puts people at the center, makes promoting people's well-being and achieving all-round development of the people the fundamental purpose and end goal, sets people's longing for a better life as the objective, adheres to the guideline of practical cooperation, and upholds the spirit of partnership featuring openness and inclusiveness. It holds tight development, the master key to solving all problems, and works to resolve difficulties in development and create more development opportunities in an effort to leave no country and no one behind. China calls on all to take the opportunity of implementing the Global Development Initiative, deepen anti-pandemic cooperation, step up coordination on macro policies, uphold a green and low-carbon approach, equity and justice and true multilateralism and drive forward international development.

China is ready to work with all parties to usher in bright prospects of international cooperation, and continue to make relentless efforts in building a community with a shared future for mankind.

Shenzhen TV: It is reported that after China's foreign ministry published the Fact Sheet: US Interference in Hong Kong Affairs and Support for Anti-China, Destabilizing Forces, the US State Department said in response that the actions of the US were fully consistent with international law and suggesting otherwise was simply an attempt by Beijing to divert attention from "its own bad conduct", and undermined the city's appeal as a hub of openness and free exchange. What is the ministry's response?

Hua Chunying: A question to the US. Among the 102 items listed in the Fact Sheet: US Interference in Hong Kong Affairs and Support for Anti-China, Destabilizing Forces, which is not based clear facts and solid evidence?

The remarks by the US once again prove that the so-called international law the US talks about is nothing but a cover for its wanton interference in others' internal affairs to pursue hegemony and bullying based on its own liking and self-interests in the name of freedom and democracy. The "emperor's new clothes" is being seen through by more and more people

Hong Kong is a society with the rule of law, where the residents have their legal rights and freedom fully protected in accordance with law. Hong Kong ranks the third in the Global Financial Centres Index report released recently. This again shows the degree of freedom and openness in Hong Kong as an international financial center is widely appreciated. However, if the US attempts to seek any freedom of wantonly interfering in China's internal affairs and undermining Hong Kong's security and stability, I can make it clear to the US: No way!

China Daily: On September 24, more than 60 countries made a joint statement at the UN Human Rights Council, supporting China's positions on issues related to Xinjiang, Hong Kong and Tibet, and opposing interference in China's internal affairs in the name of human rights. What is China's comment?

Hua Chunying: On September 24, at the 48th session of the Human Rights Council, Pakistan spoke on behalf of 65 countries. It stressed issues related to Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Tibet are China's internal affairs that allow no foreign interference and supported the implementation of One Country, Two Systems in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. It opposed politicization of and double standards on human rights issues, opposed groundless accusations against China out of political motives and based on disinformation and opposed interference in China's internal affairs in the name of human rights. More than 30 countries supported China's legitimate positions by making statements in national capacity or co-signing a letter. The fact that nearly 100 countries spoke for justice again at the Human Rights Council fully shows justice can always prevail.

A handful of Western countries, in total disregard of facts and truth, have fabricated lies and rumors and interfered in China's internal affairs, which is rejected by developing countries. They attempt to oppress and contain other countries under the pretext of human rights and trample upon international rule of law, which is met with a firm fightback. Facts have proven again that Chinese people will never allow any attempt to politicize human rights issues with double standards and harm the basic human rights of the people of other countries, nor will the countries and people who uphold fairness and justice in the world. We urge those Western countries to seriously reflect upon what they have done, change their course and return to the right track of dialogue and cooperation.

FSN: Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were released on bail for medical reasons and reports also said that China may resume the case against them if they violate the conditions of bails. So first of all, will the foreign ministry be able to elaborate on what those medical reasons are and also elaborate on what the conditions of bail are as well. Also ,would you be able to share whether or not the US or Canada set as a condition for the release of Meng Wanzhou that the two Michaels had to be returned to Canada as well?

Hua Chunying: You may have learned from media reports that Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor applied for release on bail for medical reasons. After the confirmation from related departments and diagnosis of professional medical institutes of China and under the guarantee of the Canadian ambassador to China, the Chinese courts concerned decided to release them on bail in accordance with law.

Relevant reports also listed facts in details that they were suspected of committing the crime of endangering China's national security. The two defendants confessed to their crimes, and they should strictly abide by the decision on bail made by relevant Chinese courts. In case of violation, China can resume, in accordance with law, the trial of the alleged criminal acts anytime while on bail. I would refer you to competent authorities for specific details.

As for your question on condition, I just said that the groundless detention of Meng Wanzhou is a serious mistake made by the US and Canada, which they should have corrected long ago.

China News Service: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov noted on September 25 that nuclear submarines use weapons-grade uranium. He added that if Australia acquires nuclear-powered submarines within the framework of the new AUKUS defense alliance, Russia will probably have to request IAEA oversight. What's your comment on that?

Hua Chunying: My colleague has made clear China's position on this issue before. We believe that the cooperation between the US, the UK and Australia on nuclear submarines poses a serious risk of nuclear proliferation and violates the spirit of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT). The concerns expressed by the Russian side are completely legitimate and reasonable.

The export of nuclear submarines to Australia, a non-nuclear weapon state, would involve the transfer of sensitive nuclear materials such as weapons-grade highly enriched uranium and related technology and equipment. There are gaps in the IAEA's safeguards system, which cannot effectively prevent Australia from using relevant nuclear materials to manufacture nuclear weapons. China is firmly opposed to the US, the UK and Australia's malicious exploitation of loopholes in the NPT and the IAEA safeguards mechanism, and will firmly safeguard the authority and effectiveness of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime.

At the same time, China would like to remind all parties of the serious harm of double standards on the non-proliferation issue adopted by the US, UK and Australia. The US and UK put geopolitical interests above international nuclear non-proliferation rules and help Australia become the first non-nuclear weapon state to introduce nuclear submarines, which will encourage other non-nuclear weapon states to do the same, and bring far-reaching negative impact to the resolving of non-proliferation hotspots in the region. Moreover, Australia's introduction of nuclear submarines will undercut the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty and ASEAN countries' efforts to build a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (NWFZ) in Southeast Asia, and severely sabotage regional peace and stability.

China again urges the three countries to heed the call from the international community, abandon outdated Cold War mentality and narrow-minded geopolitical concepts, revoke the wrong decision, faithfully fulfill international non-proliferation obligations and do more that benefits regional peace and stability.

Reuters: Can I clarify that China's position is that the release of Meng and the release of Kovrig and Spavor is entirely coincidental? And secondly, a British warship passed through the Taiwan Straits today. Do you have any comment on that?

Hua Chunying: We have stated many times that the Meng Wanzhou incident is completely different in essence from the cases of Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor. Many media outlets, including those in Canada, pointed out that the Canadian side should not have done the dirty work for the US and should draw lessons. The groundless detention of Meng Wanzhou is a serious mistake made by the US and Canada, which they should have corrected long ago.

As to your second question, China's position is very clear. We hope some country can do more that helps to build mutual trust and truly safeguards regional peace and stability.

Prasar Bharati: Last week, India's Ambassador to China Vikram Misri has said that India has continued to issue visas to Chinese businessmen to visit India despite current differences in the bilateral relations, but he expressed his disappointment over China's continued visa ban on Indian students, family members, businessmen, marine crew etc. and has termed it as unscientific approach. Do you have any comment or response to this, particularly to China's unscientific approach as mentioned?

Hua Chunying: Since the start of COVID-19, China has been following science-based prevention and control measures in accordance with law, and has done our utmost to protect people's health and safety, and safeguard their life and production. Given the ongoing spread of the coronavirus across the globe, the Chinese government has to adopt a series of management measures, which is timely adjusted in accordance with the evolving situation, in order to ensure the safe, healthy and orderly flow of Chinese and foreign travelers. China's prevention and control measures are scientific, professional and appropriate. I want to stress that China applies quarantine measures equally to all inbound travelers, including its own citizens.

With effective prevention and control measures in place, China is willing to work with all countries, India included, to make proper arrangement for the exchanges of personnel in the context of COVID-19.

Bloomberg: In your early answer about Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, you said they pleaded guilty and then they were released on bail. Is that a fact that they pleaded guilty? That's a statement I haven't heard before.

Hua Chunying: Maybe you missed those media reports on the matter. Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor made confession to their crimes and wrote materials of confession and repentance.

Beijing Youth Daily: On September 23, the US House of Representatives passed the amendment bill of the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which recommends the US administration to consider imposing sanctions against 35 Russian senior officials and businessmen under the "Global Magnitsky Act." Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov and Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova made strong response to that. Do you have any comment?

Hua Chunying: We noted relevant reports and strong response on the Russian side. China firmly rejects the US pointing fingers at other countries and imposing unilateral sanctions under the pretext of human rights. China believes that all countries should abide by international law, opposes wanton use or threat of unilateral sanctions, maintains that all countries should resolve differences through equal-footed negotiations and rejects willful issuance of ultimatum. The US totally disregards the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, international law and the basic norms governing international relations. Such hegemonic and bullying practices are just unpopular. They have been opposed by Russia and China, and will meet rejection and opposition from more and more countries.

Global Times: it is reported that Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov on September 26 said the recent US proposal for a "Summit for Democracy", was more in the spirit of a Cold War, as it declares a new crusade against all dissenters. What's your comment?

Hua Chunying: I fully agree with Foreign Minister Lavrov. By putting together this so-called "Summit for Democracy", the US is in essence drawing a ideological line for bloc politics. This will only lead to division and confrontation, which will find no support as it runs against the trend of the times.

A crucial criterion of democracy should be whether the people's expectations, needs and aspirations are met, and whether they enjoy tangible benefits. Whether it is good or not should not be judged by what we say, but what we do. In the US, the top one percent own, govern and have it all. Is this democracy? The US politics is split and polarized, and it's "America against America". The government doesn't have the support of half the people. Is this democracy? Fooling the people and abusing their trust and making empty promises without delivering on them, is this democracy? The US has waged wars overseas based on lies and rumors, in which people lost their lives and slipped into poverty, while arms dealers and big capitalists lined their pockets. Is this democracy? Callous to people like George Floyd who can't breathe and innocent people died by gun violence, the government just sits back. Is this democracy? Living a good life while resorting to all means to suppress other countries the right to development and deny their people a good life, is this democracy?

The US side should do some soul-searching, make a correct and objective assessment of itself. It should stop acting as "the spokesperson for democracy" at will and applying double or even multiple standards on the issue of democracy, let alone trying to use the issue of democracy as a tool to suppress other countries. We hope that the US will abandon the Cold War mentality, reject the wrong practice of seeking cliques and zero-sum game, and work with other countries to practice international relations featuring mutual respect, fairness, justice and win-win cooperation, and promote the common values of humanity of peace, development, fairness, justice, democracy and freedom.

TASS: The first-ever in-person Quad summit among the US, Japan. Australia and India was concluded in the White House yesterday. The themes of discussions reportedly focused on China. What does the foreign ministry have to say about this?

Hua Chunying: We are following the Quad summit held by the US, Japan, India and Australia.

For some time, these countries have been keen on insinuating China with the so-called "rules-based order", playing up and inciting the so-called "China threat" theory, and driving a wedge between regional countries and China. China is firmly opposed to this. In response to your question, I would like to emphasize three points.

First, facts have long proved that China is a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development, a defender of the international order and a provider of public goods. China's growth means a growing force for world peace and a blessing for regional prosperity and development. China cannot be accused of "coercion" or "disruption of order".

Second, what most countries in the world recognize and accept is the international system with the UN at its core, the international order based on international law and the basic norms governing international relations based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, rather than the so-called "order" unilaterally defined by one or few countries. Numerous facts have shown that the US wants an order in which it wantonly smears, coerces and interferes in other countries without paying any price. It is an order in which US hegemony and bullying prevail, while the whole world grovels to the US. This so-called "order" runs counter to the trend of peace, development and cooperation of the times and the common aspiration of people around the world. It is unpopular and will never succeed.

Third, China always believes that any multilateral mechanism should conform to the trend of the times for peace and development, help enhance mutual trust and cooperation among countries, and should not target or undermine the interests of any third party. Relevant countries should abandon the outdated Cold War zero-sum mentality and ideological bias, stop forming closed and exclusive "cliques", and do more to promote solidarity and cooperation among countries in the region as well as regional peace and stability.

RIA Novosti: Last week, the former United Nations Under-Secretary-General Sha Zukang called on Beijing to re-examine its no-first-use policy on nuclear weapon. I wonder what's China's comment on his suggestions in light of new security alliance among Australia, the UK and the US. Will China consider the change of this policy?

Hua Chunying: China's nuclear policy has been clear and consistent. China has been an active advocate for the comprehensive prohibition and complete elimination of nuclear weapons. We unequivocally made the pledge of not being the first to use nuclear weapons at any time or under any circumstances and unconditionally not using or threatening to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states or nuclear-weapon-free zones. China is the only nuclear weapon state to make and honor this commitment.

Every Chinese who loves his country is entitled to express his views on national security. Many of their views actually reveal the concern over the unilateral and hegemonic policies of the US in the field of strategic security. We hope the US government can heed the voice of ordinary Chinese people, earnestly reduce the role of nuclear weapons in national security policies, respect the legitimate security concerns of other countries, and play its due role in maintaining global strategic balance and stability.

Prasar Bharati: A follow-up. You just said that China is willing to have good arrangements for bilateral travel with India. But as I understand, China is not issuing any visas for travelers from India. So are you saying that China is planning to soon start bilateral travel with India? What did you mean? Can you kindly explain a little bit?

Hua Chunying: Maybe you didn't quite understand what I said. On the visa issue that you care about, the prevention and control measures that China has to adopt amid COVID-19 are not targeting India, but applied to everyone. China applies entry measures equally to all inbound travelers, including its own citizens. Like I said earlier, with effective prevention and control measures in place, China is willing to work with all countries, India included, to make proper arrangement for the exchanges of personnel in the context of COVID-19. China's prevention and control measures are scientific, professional and appropriate. We will make timely adjustments and proper arrangements in light of the changing situation and needs.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying's Regular Press Conference on September 28, 2021

2021-09-28 21:35

CCTV: On September 27, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi addressed a video conference on China's role at the United Nations. This year marks the 50th anniversary of China's restoration of its lawful seat at the UN. Could you brief us on China's role in upholding the status and role of the UN over the past 50 years?

Hua Chunying: This year is of great significance in China-UN relations as it marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the lawful seat of the People's Republic of China at the UN. Over the past 50 years, China has honored its solemn commitment to the UN Charter, firmly upheld the international system with the UN at its core, the basic norms governing international relations based on the UN Charter and the UN's central role in international affairs.

Over the past 50 years, China has continued to contribute its strength to the cause of the UN. As the largest troop contributor among the permanent members of the UN Security Council, China has participated in 29 UN peacekeeping missions, sending a total of more than 50,000 personnel. As the largest developing country, China has actively supported the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development and achieved the poverty reduction target set in the 2030 Agenda 10 years ahead of schedule, lifting more than 70 percent of the world's poor population out of poverty. In the face of the sudden outbreak of COVID-19, we launched the largest emergency humanitarian operation in the history of New China, fulfilling our commitment to make COVID-19 vaccines a global public good and supporting the relevant efforts of the UN.

Standing at a new historical starting point, China will actively build a community with shared future for mankind, and continue to do its best to participate in the UN affairs, defend the status of the UN, and promote the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. We will uphold the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, adhere to true multilateralism, and remain an advocate of world peace, contributor to global development, defender of international order and provider of public goods. We are ready to work with other countries to make new and greater contributions to peace and development for all mankind.

Xinhua News Agency: The HKSAR Government published the Report on Hong Kong's Business Environment: A Place with Unique Advantages and Unlimited Opportunities on September 27. Do you have any comment?

Hua Chunying: We welcome and support the HKSAR Government's issuance of the Report on Hong Kong's Business Environment. The report gives a systematic review of the negative impact of black-clad violence and the US strategy of suppressing China on the business environment of Hong Kong, makes in-depth explanations of the great significance of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the improvement of Hong Kong's electoral system to the city's socio-economic development, and looks into the broad prospects and precious business opportunities in the future. It has given a convincing response to international concerns over Hong Kong's business environment with accurate and detailed content and objective and unbiased observations. It is worth a careful reading for everyone that is interested in and cares about Hong Kong.

Since Hong Kong's return to the motherland, with the full support of the Central Government, its status as a global financial, shipping and trading hub has been consolidated and enhanced. Hong Kong has been one of the world's freest economies and best locations to do business for international investors, which fully demonstrates the advantage of the One Country, Two Systems. The Law on Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR and the new electoral system of the HKSAR have improved the rule of law in Hong Kong, led to a more secure and stable society and more efficient and smoother governance, and foreign enterprises and authoritative international institutions have more confidence in the Hong Kong's business environment. The Central Government has continued to roll out preferential policies to Hong Kong, which has brought great positive influence to Hong Kong's socio-economic development. We believe that with its integration into the general picture of China's development, Hong Kong's unique strength will be given better play with a stronger driving force. This Pearl of the Orient will become even more shiny.

I want to stress again that Hong Kong is China's Special Administrative Region and its affairs are an integral part of China's internal affairs, which brook no external interference. Facts have proven that certain countries' attempts to incite and embolden the anti-China, destabilizing forces, maliciously cast a pall over Hong Kong's business environment and mess up Hong Kong and contain China's development will never succeed. No external disruption and pressuring will hold back the historical trend of Hong Kong moving from chaos to stability and prosperity, nor will they block the steady and sustained implementation of the One Country, Two Systems toward a bright future.

Shenzhen TV: According to reports, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in an interview yesterday that there is no obstacle to direct China-Australia dialogue at the political level on the Australian side, but China is not interested in that opportunity. At the same time, Australian media commented that considering the enough space for turnaround between China and the US, and that Australia has run out of all "bullets" in the name of "principles of democracy" in recent years, Australia may end up in an awkward situation where it has no "card to play" against China. What is China's comment?

Hua Chunying: China always believes that state-to-state relations should and must be built on the basis of mutual respect and equal treatment, and that countries must respect each others' core interests, major concerns and legitimate rights to development. Whether Australia is sincere about improving and developing relations with China, or it does the opposite to what it says, or even goes so far as to blatantly stab China in the back, China has its own judgement.

The current difficulties in China-Australia relations are entirely of Australia's own making, which is not what China wishes to see and is what Australia knows well. It is imperative that Australia face up to the crux of the setbacks in bilateral relations, and earnestly think about whether China is seen as a partner or a threat. The Australian side should take an objective and correct look at China and its development, earnestly follow the principles of mutual respect and equality when handling the bilateral relations, and do more to enhance mutual trust and promote practical cooperation between the two countries. We hope Australia can redress its wrong remarks and moves on relations with China for some time, and take real actions to create conditions for recovering and improving the bilateral relations.

Global Times: We noticed that some American media said after Canadian citizens Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were released, Westerners working in China received notice that they may be arrested with "fabricated" charges and taken as "hostage" by China anytime in the future. This is the message from US humiliating surrender to China in the "hostage diplomacy" over the Meng Wanzhou incident. What is your comment?

Hua Chunying: The statements sound familiar. Just as some in the US and other Western countries are used to making and fanning up sensational and absurd rumors on China-related issues, those making such statements are simply like crying wolf when there is no wolf, and smearing China by spreading disinformation.

We have stated on multiple occasions that Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were suspected of committing crimes of endangering national security with conclusive evidence. The two individuals made confession to their crimes and wrote materials of confession and repentance.

It is a known fact that the US is the inventor of "hostage diplomacy" and "coercive diplomacy", whose birthplace and headquarters are in Washington D.C.. The US, through its own policies and actions, has provided the world with too many classic examples of coercive diplomacy. Alstom, the French company fell to US prey in a similar way, was among the victims.

I noticed that few days ago, Alstom's former executive Frederic Pierucci said in an interview with CGTN,"I didn't have the chance to have my company's support like she had, and I didn't have a chance to have my country's support like she had. [...] What I have seen in the Huawei case is that the whole company was behind her from beginning to the end. And also diplomatically, China probably did a lot of things to come to this kind of agreement. [...] At the end of the day, no European country will say this, but everybody deep down should feel grateful to what is happening here, because it's really one of the first time that a country is really standing up to the United States to stop this craziness of long-arm jurisdiction. In fact, this will benefit a lot of other countries providing they have the courage to do the same thing, stand up and fight back. Let's see what happened, but this is probably going to hopefully going to be a turning point".

TASS: First, overseas media report that the Czech Republic has signed a law that excludes the possibility of participation of companies from Russia and China in the tender for the construction of a new power unit of the Dukovany nuclear power plant. Do you have any comment? Second, on September 28, the French Foreign Minister called for a "P5 summit" to establish a joint action programme "to enable the Security Council to fully exercise its mandate and to embark upon a dialogue on the key issues of arms control and our collective security." Does the foreign ministry have any comment?

Hua Chunying: With regard to the first question, we believe that the cooperation between Chinese and Czech enterprises based on commercial and mutually beneficial principles serves the common interests of both sides. We hope that the Czech side will abide by the principle of fair competition and market economy, and provide an open, fair, transparent and non-discriminatory business environment for foreign enterprises to do business in the Czech Republic.

On your second question, China supports the proposal for a P5 summit. We believe that under the current circumstances, strengthening P5 leaders' coordination on the international situation, major issues and anti-epidemic cooperation is of important significance to upholding multilateralism and the post-war international order, maintaining the authority of the UN and the Security Council and safeguarding international peace and stability.

AFP: The NATO Secretary General has raised concerns over China's expanding nuclear arsenal and has called for arms control talks with China. Does the foreign ministry have any response?

Hua Chunying: China is gravely concerned about and firmly opposes the "China nuclear threat theory" NATO has been hyping up lately. China follows a self-defensive nuclear strategy. We are committed to no first use of nuclear weapons at any time or under any circumstances and pledge unconditionally not to use or threaten to use nuclear weapons against non-nuclear weapon states or nuclear-weapon-free zones. China has never taken part in any form of nuclear arms race, nor has it deployed nuclear weapons overseas. No country will be threatened or should feel threatened by China's national defense capability as long as it does not intend to threaten or undermine China's sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.

What the international community should be really concerned about is NATO's nuclear sharing policy. We hope NATO can urge the US to earnestly fulfill its special and primary responsibilities in nuclear disarmament, and further drastically and substantively reduce its nuclear stockpile, so as to create conditions for realizing comprehensive and complete nuclear disarmament.

Beijing Youth Daily: Prime Minister of Solomon Islands Manasseh Damukana Sogavare said in a statement at the 76th session of the UN General Assembly on September 26 that Solomon Islands is a party to the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty. He said, "we therefore would like to keep our region nuclear free and put the region's nuclear legacy behind us. The ocean remains the life blood for our survival." This reminds us of the recent nuclear submarine cooperation agreement struck by the US, UK and Australia, which may pose similar risks to the South Pacific. Do you have any comment?

Hua Chunying: The South Pacific is a victim and the worst inflicted region of nuclear pollution. Many of you may not know that between 1946 and 1958, the US conducted 67 nuclear tests in the Marshall Islands, causing irretrievable, irreversible and enormous damage to the life, health and safety of the local people and biological environment. The US has dumped nuclear waste into the Pacific for 63 times, the fallout of which takes a toll on people of the Marshall Islands, leading to hikes in the incidence rate of cancer, leukemia, birth defects and other diseases. The levels of plutonium-239 and -240 in the soil samples from the Bikini Atoll are more than 1,000 times higher than those of Fukushima and Chernobyl.

The nuclear submarine cooperation among the US, the UK and Australia undermines the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty and again casts a shadow of nuclear proliferation over the South Pacific, thus inevitably inviting concerns and doubts from countries in the region and beyond. The people of the South Pacific region should never be sacrificed again for the pursuit of bloc politics and military confrontation by a handful of countries. The US, UK and Australia should discard the outdated Cold War mentality, act with a sense of responsibility and revoke their wrong decision, and avoid scourging the innocent people of the South Pacific island countries.

Beijing Daily: According to reports, Kim Yo-jong, Deputy Department Director of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, said on September 25 that the DPRK and the ROK could have smooth communication and a leaders' summit could take place, if impartiality and mutual respect are guaranteed. What is China's comment?

Hua Chunying: The DPRK and the ROK share the same ethnic origin and kinship. As a close neighbor, China supports the DPRK and the ROK in improving relations through dialogue and consultation, and promoting reconciliation and cooperation. We hope the two sides can demonstrate goodwill to each other and work in joint hands, so as to create an atmosphere and conditions for advancing political settlement of the Peninsular issue.

CCTV: The Japanese government on September 27 adopted a draft cyber security strategy for the next three years, naming China, Russia and the DPRK as cyber-attack threats for the first time. The draft states the three countries are suspected of engaging in aggressive cyber activity, and that Japan will take firm countermeasures, including a diplomatic response and criminal prosecution. Do you have any response?

Hua Chunying: In disregard of basic facts, the Japanese side slandered and attacked China on the cyber security issue and maliciously played up the so-called threats from neighbors. China is firmly opposed to this.

I believe we are all very clear about which country is engaged in "cyber espionage", and which country is the biggest "hacking empire" that engages in all kinds of espionage and wiretapping, even targeting its own allies. In fact, the Japanese side also has a clear idea about this. Is Japan trying to help deflect attention by maliciously slamming China on the issue of cyber attacks at someone's behest?

We hope that the Japanese side could do some soul-searching, act in its own interests and do more to enhance political mutual trust with its neighbors, and contribute to regional peace and stability. China will continue to take necessary measures to safeguard its own cyber security and firmly respond to all kinds of wrong actions that politicize cyber security.

Associated Press of Pakistan: In a tweet Prime Minister Imran Khan has termed inclusion of Karachi coastal zone in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor as a game changer and hoped it will put Karachi at par with developed port cities. What is your comment?

Hua Chunying: At the recently-held 10th Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) meeting of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), China and Pakistan agreed to include the Karachi Comprehensive Coastal Development Zone in CPEC and list it as an outcome of the JCC meeting.

China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic partners of cooperation. CPEC is a flagship program under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China is ready to work with Pakistan to earnestly follow through on the common understanding of the leaders on the two sides and the outcomes of the JCC meeting, ensure sound construction and operation of existing projects, highlight cooperation in health, green economy and digitization, step up cooperation in industries, science and technology, agriculture and people's livelihood, and forge high-quality CPEC cooperation, so as to provide new impetus to the growth of bilateral ties, economic and social development of the two countries and the improvement of people's livelihood.

Prasar Bharati: Yesterday, Indian medical students gathered at the Chinese Embassy in New Delhi. These students are studying in Chinese universities and they are waiting for the return to China. Is there any consideration for the request?

Hua Chunying: I answered your question in details yesterday.

Given the ongoing spread of the coronavirus across the globe, the Chinese government has to adopt a series of management measures, which is timely adjusted in accordance with the evolving situation, in order to ensure the safe, healthy and orderly flow of Chinese and foreign travelers. I want to stress that China's entry prevention and control measures are applied to all inbound travelers, including its own citizens.

The Paper: The Security Council will hold a meeting today to mark the 25th anniversary of the conclusion of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). All parties will call for continued efforts to push for an early entry into force of the treaty and move toward the goal of a nuclear-weapon-free world at an early date. Meanwhile, the nuclear submarine agreement struck by the US, the UK and Australia does the opposite. What is your comment on that?

Hua Chunying: This year marks the 25th anniversary of the conclusion of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), which has become a key pillar of the international nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime and has played an important role in curbing arms race and maintaining global strategic stability. Banning nuclear tests has become an international consensus.

China firmly supports the purposes and objectives of the CTBT and was among the first countries to sign the treaty. Over the past 25 years, we have been committed to a moratorium on nuclear tests. China supports the treaty's early entry into force and will continue to contribute to that and make unremitting efforts to achieve the lofty goal of complete prohibition and thorough destruction of nuclear weapons.

The CTBT and the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) are important pillars of the international nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation regime. While pushing for the early entry into force of the CTBT, the international community should earnestly uphold the authority, universality and effectiveness of the NPT. The nuclear cooperation among the US, UK and Australia has a serious risk of nuclear proliferation and violates the spirit of the NPT. It will create a bad precedent and encourage other nations to follow suit, thus damaging the international non-proliferation regime and accelerate regional arms race. The international community should stand together against the trilateral nuclear submarines cooperation and never sits idly by.

NHK: The DPRK fired another missile this morning. The DPRK successfully test fired a long-range cruise missile around September 10, and fired additional two missiles on September 15. We wonder if China has any comment on such developments?

Hua Chunying: China has noted relevant reports. China calls on all parties to meet each other half way, follow the "dual-track" approach, and take phased and synchronized actions to discuss effective ways to address the concerns of all parties in a balanced manner, and jointly promote the political resolution of the Peninsula issue.

Beijing Youth Daily: White House spokesperson Psaki said yesterday that the presidents of China and the US raised the Meng Wanzhou incident in the phone call in early September. She said, there is not a change in its China policy. "We're not seeking conflict. It is a relationship of competition." What is China's response?

Hua Chunying: The Party and the Chinese government attach high importance to protecting the legitimate rights and interests of every Chinese citizen. Since Ms. Meng Wanzhou was groundlessly detained in early December, 2018, President Xi Jinping gave personal attention to this. The Chinese government has worked at various levels and on multiple occasions, provided consular protection and assistance to Ms. Meng Wanzhou, and lodged solemn representations with the US and Canada, asking them to drop the erroneous charges against Meng and ensure her safe return to China as early as possible. During the meeting in Tianjin not long ago, China put forward two lists to the US. One is a list of wrongdoings that the US must stop and the second is a list of key individual cases that China has concerns with. Both lists clearly request the US to drop the erroneous charges against Meng and ensure her safe return to China as soon as possible. During the leaders' phone call, the presidents of China and the US had candid, in-depth and extensive strategic communication and exchanges on China-US relations and issues of common concern. President Xi Jinping made the case of the Meng Wanzhou incident, expounded on China's position and asked the US to properly resolve it as soon as possible.

The proper resolution of the Meng Wanzhou incident is of positive significance. I noticed that some media commented that the resolution removed a thorn deeply inserted in China-US relations. But due to the wrong China policy the US has adopted for some time, other thorns that vary in length still remain in China-US relations. We hope the US can attach high importance and take concrete actions to empty the two lists. As President Xi Jinping pointed out, when China and the US cooperate, the two countries and the world will benefit; when China and the United States are in confrontation, the two countries and the world will suffer. We hope the US can work with China in the same direction, follow the spirit of the leaders' phone call, strengthen dialogue and cooperation, properly handle differences and bring China-US relations back onto the right track of steady development as soon as possible.

I also noted that in the recent videoconference, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres exchanged views on China-US relations. State Councilor Wang Yi briefed on the ins and outs of the current state of the relations and noted what the relations have gone through is plain to see. Facing unwarranted suppression, rumors and smears from the US, China has no choice but to make resolute response confidently to defend national sovereignty and dignity and safeguard people's legitimate rights to development. The US side recently said it does not want confrontation or Cold War, and hopes China-US relations can come back onto the right track. We hope the US can translate their words into actions, and bring its China policy back to a reasonable and pragmatic track. If the US follows through its commitments, then China is ready to work with it to provide a good answer to where China-US relations are heading, the question of the century, and get the relationship right, a must-answer question, to satisfy both Chinese and American people.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying's Regular Press Conference on September 29, 2021

2021-09-29 21:11

CCTV: On September 28, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi said the US-UK-Australia submarine cooperation is a "very tricky" issue in terms of inspections. It will be the first time that a non-nuclear-weapon state regulated by the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) introduces a nuclear submarine, and it means highly-enriched uranium used in power reactors of nuclear submarines will be excluded from IAEA supervision. The IAEA has to enter into a very complex, technical negotiation to see to it that there is no weakening of the nuclear non-proliferation regime. On the same day, the Philippine Presidential Spokesperson said that Philippine President Duterte is concerned that AUKUS could trigger a "nuclear arms race". What is China's comment?

Hua Chunying: The international community is closely following and is vigilant about AUKUS and the plan for nuclear submarine cooperation. Many countries have expressed concerns and doubts. China has taken note of the statements of Director General Grossi and President Duterte.

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi pointed out yesterday when co-chairing the China-EU High-Level Strategic Dialogue with Josep Borrell, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, that such move of the US, the UK and Australia will pose three potential dangers to regional peace and stability and the international order.

First, the danger of Cold War resurgence. The three countries, drawing lines along ideology, have built a new military bloc which will heighten geopolitical tensions. When the international community widely rejects Cold War and divisions, the US blatantly violates its political statement of not seeking a new Cold War and gangs up with others to create a small Anglo-Saxon "clique", putting geopolitical self-interests above international solidarity. This is typical Cold War mentality.

Second, the danger of arms race. The move will spur regional countries to accelerate the development of military capabilities, and even seek to break the nuclear threshold and increase the risk of military conflicts. The US, on the one hand, sanctions and suppresses some countries with the excuse of developing nuclear technologies, and flagrantly transfers nuclear technologies to non-nuclear states on the other. This is typical double-standard.

Third, the danger of nuclear proliferation. In the name of building nuclear-powered submarines, the provision of nuclear materials to a non-nuclear-weapon state will exclude weapons-grade highly-enriched uranium from necessary supervision and pose huge nuclear proliferation risks. The move will bring shocks to the non-proliferation system, undercut the South Pacific Nuclear Free Zone Treaty and ASEAN countries' efforts to build a Nuclear-Weapon-Free Zone (NWFZ) in Southeast Asia. This is typical contempt of rules.

It should draw special attention from the international community that the IAEA safeguards mechanism cannot verify whether Australia will use the highly enriched uranium in the power reactors of nuclear submarines for nuclear weapons. As Director General Grossi said, the nuclear submarine cooperation among the US, the UK and Australia will be the first time that a non-nuclear-weapon state introduces a nuclear submarine, which will exclude the highly-enriched uranium from IAEA's supervision. In brief, this is a malicious exploitation of loopholes in international rules for out-and-out proliferation activities. Supervisions on the Australian nuclear submarines will set a precedent, concerns the rights and obligations of all IAEA member states, especially signatories to the NPT, and will have far-reaching impact on the international non-proliferation system. This is not an issue between the IAEA Secretariat and the three countries; it shall be handled by all member states through joint consultation. China will stay in communication with the IAEA Secretariat and other member states to resolutely defend the authority and efficacy of the international non-proliferation system.

TASS News Agency: According to Reuters, the United States has reached out to China diplomatically about reducing its purchases of Iranian crude oil. It is said that this was one of the issues raised by US Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman when she visited China in late July. Do you have any comments on this information?

Hua Chunying: China's position is clear and consistent on normal economic and trade cooperation between China and Iran. China and Iran always conduct cooperation following the commercial principles with equality, mutual benefit and win-win results within the framework of international law. We firmly oppose any unilateral sanction, and urge the US to remove the so-called "long-arm jurisdiction" over third-party entities and individuals as soon as possible.

NHK: Today, Japan's former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida is elected as the head of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). He is set to succeed Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. Do you have any comment?

Hua Chunying: We have taken note of the election result. China is ready to work with Japan's new administration to observe the principles and spirit set out in the four political documents between China and Japan, deepen practical cooperation in various fields, and move forward China-Japan ties along the right track in a sound and steady manner.

Hubei Media Group: On September 27, permanent missions of China, Belarus, the DPRK and Venezuela held a videoconference in Geneva on the sidelines of the 48th session of the Human Rights Council with the theme of US, Canada and Australia's violation of indigenous people's human rights. Representatives of Canadian and Australian indigenous people as well as Chinese scholars disclosed the severe crimes committed by the US, Canada and Australia. Representatives from many countries urged the three countries to take practical measures to improve the human rights situation of indigenous people. Can you share more information and what is China's comment on the meeting?

Hua Chunying: The videoconference was co-hosted by the permanent missions of China and three other countries in Geneva, which saw active participation from permanent missions, NGO representatives and reporters from many countries.

The Chinese representative pointed out at the meeting that indigenous people's human rights in the US, Canada and Australia have become a "black hole." The meeting was held for indigenous people in the three countries because their voice should be heard and their rights valued by more people. The international community should devote more attention to the human rights problems of the indigenous people in the US, Canada, Australia, investigate violation of indigenous people's human rights and bring the perpetrators to justice. The three countries should reflect upon themselves, thoroughly investigate the history of indigenous residential schools, return justice to and reveal truth for indigenous people that they deserve and earnestly address their own severe human rights problems.

At the meeting, representatives of indigenous tribes and descendants in Canada and Australia said, for centuries, colonizers in pursuit of self-interests took control of lands that indigenous people had lived for generations and blatantly plundered all kinds of resources, leading to long-term racial discrimination and economic exploitation of indigenous people, and perils of genocide and culture elimination. Colonizers, under the banner of protection, forcibly took indigenous children from their parents and sent them to residential schools. Their real agenda was to wipe out indigenous languages and words, knowledge system and identity toward eventual assimilation. Centuries have passed, but discriminatory laws and policies against indigenous people are still effective, and indigenous people are still among the most oppressed and poverty-stricken in the three countries.

Diplomats from the countries at the meeting said the US, Canada and Australia claim themselves as "human rights pioneers", but their own human rights situations are "fraught with problems". The international community should condemn their gross violations of indigenous people's human rights. All participating parties expressed gratitude to China and other countries for organizing the event and paid their respect to those who are brave enough to speak out on behalf of indigenous people. They hoped the international community can take actions, and redress social and historical injustice, and urge the US, Canada and Australia to give an explanation to indigenous people.

Kyodo News Agency: As the resolution of the Meng Wanzhou incident removed a thorn inserted in China-US relations, will it be possible that President Xi Jinping meet with President Biden on the sidelines of the G20 summit to be held in Italy in November? Is the likelihood of a meeting increased?

Hua Chunying: I can feel from your question that you hope to see the China-US relationship improve as soon as possible and the remaining thorns that vary in size removed from the bilateral ties. We appreciate this. Engagement at the heads-of-state level needs to be discussed and agreed upon by the two sides. We don't have any information on that at present.

As I said yesterday, China put forward two lists to the US side in the Tianjin talks. We hope the US side can attach importance to China's concerns, take concrete actions and make concerted efforts to empty the two lists as soon as possible.

Associated Press of Pakistan: On September 27, China-Pakistan Media Forum was held via video link. Speakers at forum urged the media of China and Pakistan to enhance cooperation in countering fake news to promote regional peace, stability and development. What is your response?

Hua Chunying: Thank you for your attention on this forum. On September 27, the China-Pakistan Media Forum was held via video link by the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies of Pakistan. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Nong Rong attended and addressed the forum.

You mentioned that participants of the forum called on the media of the two countries to strengthen cooperation and jointly combat fake news. I think this is very necessary and urgent under the current circumstances because we can see that certain countries and individuals have fabricated and spread malicious disinformation with the political purpose of meddling in other countries' internal affairs, endangering their national security and smearing their image. Such malicious disinformation is the common enemy of mankind, as it causes confusion, undermines solidarity, undercuts mutual trust and hinders cooperation. Chinese and Pakistani media should cooperate in cracking down on disinformation. Moreover, we hope more and more countries will understand the harm of disinformation and join hands to combat it, and create a healthy, rational, objective and friendly environment for international public opinion, where people can have correct mutual understanding, friendly exchanges and mutually beneficial cooperation.

MASTV: Commander of the US Central Command Gen. Kenneth McKenzie said he took full responsibility for the August drone strike in Kabul which killed ten Afghan civilians. The Afghan Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid said the the US had sent drones in the airspace of Afghanistan, violating its sovereignty and international laws. He also warned the US of bad consequences if the US continues to operate drones over Afghan airspace illegally. Do you have any response to this?

Hua Chunying: For a start, Afghanistan is an independent sovereign state. The US should earnestly respect Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity.

In the past two decades of the US presence in Afghanistan, there were repeated tragedies of countless innocent civilian deaths and displacement. As you mentioned, on August 29, the US military staged an airstrike on a civilian residence in Kabul, killing 10 civilians, including many children. This is just the tip of the iceberg of all tragedies and misdeeds the US made in Afghanistan. According to reports, in 2008, US troops attacked a village in Herat province, which killed nearly a hundred civilians including 50 children and 19 women. Reports said during its military's presence Afghanistan, the US has implemented a project to create a drug laboratory on a global scale there. The production of opiates has increased more than 40 times. The International Criminal Court (ICC) also pointed out that the US troops may have committed war crimes and crime against humanity in Afghanistan through the "cruel or violent" interrogation of detainee and human rights violations including "torture and cruel treatment" between 2003 and 2014. You may all know that in response, the US government last year announced sanctions on the personnel of the ICC who participated in the investigations of relevant crimes, triggering opposition from the international community.

The US troops irresponsibly and hastily withdrew from Afghanistan, leaving behind misery and suffering as well as serious challenges in livelihood and the pandemic to the innocent Afghan people. The Afghan people now finally have a new window of opportunity for their country's peace and reconstruction. On the basis of respecting Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, the international community should support the Afghan people in taking the future in their own hands, and help Afghanistan to maintain stability, forestall turbulence, and achieve sound development.

In the face of widespread doubts and condemnation from the international community, the US, as the culprit of the Afghan issue, should show its responsibility as a major country, make sincere apologies, conduct thorough investigations, do some soul searching and make full reparations. More importantly, the US should stop habitually imposing wanton military intervention and forcing its own will on others, and avoid repeating the tragedies of plunging people into misery and suffering.

Yonhap News Agency: According to the report by Korean Central News Agency on September 29, the Academy of Defence Science of the DPRK successfully test-fired a newly-developed hypersonic missile on the morning of September 28. Do you have any comment?

Hua Chunying: China noted the relevant report and the latest moves of all parties related to the Korean Peninsula. We hope relevant sides can keep in mind the big picture of peace and stability on the Peninsula, stay cool-headed and exercise restraint, meet each other halfway, follow the "dual-track" approach and the principle of phased and synchronized actions, and find an feasible solution to address each other's concerns in a balanced manner, in order to jointly advance the political settlement of the Peninsula issue.

Since Yonhap News Agency pays much attention to the situation on the Korean Peninsula, I would like to elaborate a little bit. We also noticed that a senior official of the US State Department said recently that the US reached out directly to the DPRK to initiate dialogue and stands ready to meet without preconditions. The DPRK's Permanent Representative to the United Nations urged the US to permanently stop its joint military exercises and the deployment of strategic weapons in and around the Korean Peninsula, and give up its hostility toward the DPRK. No matter how the situation evolves, China holds that parties should exercise restraint, meet each other halfway, build mutual trust, and settle the issue through dialogue and consultation.

Under the current circumstances, the key to breaking the stalemate and restarting dialogue is taking seriously and resolving the DPRK's legitimate concerns. The US should avoid repeating empty slogans, but rather show its sincerity by presenting an appealing plan. It is imperative to invoke the rollback terms of the Security Council's DPRK-related resolutions as soon as possible and make necessary adjustments to relevant sanctions, especially those relating to provisions on the humanitarian and livelihood aspects. This is conducive to resuming the dialogue and maintaining peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, and is in line with the spirit of the resolutions.

TASS News Agency: According to Times of India, Indian army has deployed more sophisticated artillery to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in the Eastern Ladakh. It is said that three M777 howitzers regiments has been deployed on the border with China. Do you have any comments on this information?

Hua Chunying: The Indian side has long pursued the "forward policy" and illegally crossed the LAC to encroach on China's territory, which is the root cause of tension in the China-India border situation. China opposes any arms race in the disputed border areas for the purpose of competition over control. We have always been firm in safeguarding national territorial sovereignty and security, and committed to peace and stability in the China-India border areas.

Beijing Daily: It is reported that the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on September 27 said it would open a $1.9 billion program to reimburse mostly rural US telecom carriers for removing network equipment made by Chinese companies like Huawei. Do you have any comment?

Hua Chunying: Considering the grave pandemic and economic situations in the US, the $1.9 billion could be used better in areas in urgent need. The US has kept smearing and slandering Huawei and other Chinese companies, but is unable to present any solid evidence to support its accusations. The so-called "national security" is only a clumsy excuse of the US to impose "national bullying" and practice trade protectionism. We don't mind that the US is restless in making domestic policies. But the US should immediately correct its mistakes and stop abusing state power and trying all means to hobble Chinese companies. The Chinese government will continue to firmly defend the legal rights and interests of Chinese companies.

Beijing Youth Daily: Daniel Drezner, Professor of Tufts University of the US and a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, published an article on Foreign Affairs recently, criticizing US administrations for abusing economic coercion and economic violence. Sanctions have become the go-to solution for nearly every foreign policy problem, which do not work but exact a humanitarian toll. The United States of America has become "the United States of Sanctions". What is China's comment?

Hua Chunying: This professor of Tufts University is of great ingenuity. "The United States of Sanctions" is far and away a name tailored for the US. For a long time, the US has been abusing its financial hegemony and technical advantages to adopt frequent unilateral bullying practices, impose long-term sanctions on Cuba, the DPRK, Iran, Venezuela, among other countries, willfully wage "trade wars" with multiple countries and wantonly hobbles foreign high-tech companies in the name of national security. The US not only imposes sanctions on countries it sees as enemies or adversaries, but also adopts illegal, unilateral long-arm jurisdiction on third parties with exchanges with these countries, even without sparing entities and individuals of its allies.

The US abuse of sanctions severely undermines sovereignty and security of other countries, affects their national interests and people's livelihood of countries concerned, violates market economy principles and international trading rules, and disrupts security and stability of global industrial and supply chains. This, in turn, also harms the US own interests.

Some in the US are still talking about coercion. It must be pointed out that the birthplace and headquarters of economic coercion are Washington D.C.. Coercion has been a strength and feature of the US, whose government never shies away from using the expression "coercive diplomacy" but even takes pride in it. The US, through its policies and actions, has provided the world with textbook examples of coercive diplomacy, which means achieving one's strategic goals with military threats, political isolation, economic sanctions and technical blockade. The labels of "economic coercion" and "coercive diplomacy" fit the US better than anyone else.

As a member of the international community, the US government should listen to the advice of visionary people both at home and abroad, give up the old path of wanton sanctions and pressuring, and abandon hegemony and bullying. As a major country in the world, the US should truly play a constructive role in world peace, stability and development.

CCTV: Some panel buyers and solar-energy developers in the US said at an business briefing on September 27 that some Chinese solar-panel manufacturers have stopped sending panels to the United States, or are threatening to halt shipments, over regulatory concerns including a proposal for higher import tariffs. They said the freeze could derail the Biden administration's green-energy goals and lead to large layoffs among US panel installers. What is China's comment?

Hua Chunying: As you all know, the US cooked up the outrageous lie of "forced labor" in Xinjiang, and used it as an excuse for hobbling photovoltaic companies and sanctioning photovoltaic products in Xinjiang. What the US did lacks morality, violates market economy principles and international trading rules, and disrupts and undermines international industrial and supply chains. Both history and practice have proven time and again that those lifting stones up may end up hurting their own feet. Unilateral, illegal sanctions are like boomerangs that will eventually come back to harm the US own interests. We have seen many such examples. We hope the US can have a clear understanding of this and refrain from doing things that are no good to others as well as itself, because ultimately it is the American people that suffer.

The Paper: We noticed today, the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the US made remarks on the wanton repatriation of a Chinese student by the US. Can you share more information?

Hua Chunying: Recently, some cases of wanton interrogation and repatriation of Chinese students by US law enforcement have happened. The case disclosed by the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the US is one example. A Chinese student with a legal visa issued by the US government was recently wantonly interrogated by the US side at the border entrance. After being confined in a small room for more than 50 hours without proper food and rest, he was deported by the US side through a third country on trumped-up grounds. The US action seriously infringed upon the legitimate rights and interests of the student, and caused serious physical and mental damage to him and his family. This is not the only case. For example, not long ago, a Chinese student was groundlessly interrogated for nearly one hour by the US at the San Francisco airport before leaving the US for China, and thus nearly missed her trip back home. In addition, less than one month after three Chinese students were questioned upon entry into the US and then repatriated in August, other cases of US interrogation and repatriation of Chinese students have happened. The US groundless actions are illegal, unfair and immoral. Over every case, China lodged solemn representations to the US at the first instance and asked it to immediately correct the mistakes.

The current US administration claims that it welcomes Chinese students. In fact, however, it inherits the erroneous practice of the previous administration and restricted or suppressed the pursuit of education or research in the US by Chinese students. Lately it has gone from bad to worse. Under the guise of law enforcement, the US used untenable excuses to harass, interrogate or even repatriate Chinese students. To our knowledge, during their interrogation, the US repeatedly made an issue out of the students' membership of the Communist Party of China and whether or not they would serve the Chinese government. They insisted on looking at the issue through the ideological lens and linking people-to-people, cultural and academic exchange with politics. They even admitted themselves afterwards that there was not enough evidence to support the repatriation. In other words, this is typical presumption of guilt and political manipulation to artificially create confrontation. Given the fact that some in the US accuse China of mistreating foreign nationals in China for made-up charges, the hypocrisy and bullying of the US are laid bare.

People-to-people exchanges are the social foundation of China-US relations. Chinese students in the US play a positive role in promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries. Normal educational and cultural cooperation serves the interests of both sides. We urge the US side to honor its statement of welcoming Chinese students, immediately stop abusing the excuse of national security, stop repatriating, harassing and interrogating Chinese students, stop infringing upon the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese citizens and urge the US side to ensure that such incidents do not happen again. The Chinese side will continue to support Chinese students in safeguarding their legitimate rights and interests in accordance with law, and also reminds the students to raise their awareness of safety and guard against similar incidents.

Reuters: Yes, we spoke a lot about America today. The US Commerce Secretary said yesterday that the Chinese government has been preventing its domestic airlines from buying tens of billions of dollar of US manufactured Boeing airplanes. Has the Chinese government been blocking these purchases?

Hua Chunying: I would like to refer you to competent authorities for the specifics regarding trade between China and the US. But I want to stress that the China-US economic and trade relations are in essence mutually beneficial and win-win, and both sides stand to lose in a trade war. China has all along firmly upheld the WTO-centered multilateral trading system and do business in accordance with international trade rules. The international community sees very clearly who has been wielding the big stick of sanctions, and politicizing and weaponizing economic issues with ideological prejudice in the past few years. We hope the US will earnestly respect market economy principles and international trade rules, and work with China to strive for healthy and steady development of China-US trade and economic relations.

Follow-up: But just specifically about the Boeing airplanes, as far as you are concerned, is the US Commerce Secretary telling the truth?

Hua Chunying: The question you mentioned is whether China will buy Boeing aircraft. I think it's a matter that should be left to companies. The foreign ministry will not involve in such specific economic and trade issues. We hope that both sides will develop healthy, normal and mutually beneficial economic and trade relations based on the principle of respecting market economy and trade rules.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Hua Chunying's Remarks on Taiwan-related Statement Issued by US State Department Spokesperson

2021-10-04 22:34

Q: On October 3, US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price issued a statement saying that the US is very concerned by China's provocative military activity near Taiwan, which is destabilizing, risks miscalculations, and undermines regional peace and stability. The US urges China to cease its pressure and coercion against Taiwan. It will continue to assist Taiwan in maintaining a sufficient self-defense capability, and maintain the commitments as outlined in the Three Communiques, the Taiwan Relations Act, and the Six Assurances. What is China's comment on that?

A: Taiwan belongs to China and the US is in no position to make irresponsible remarks. The relevant remarks by the US side seriously violate the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-US joint communiques and send an extremely wrong and irresponsible signal.

For quite some time, the US has been making negative moves by selling arms to Taiwan and strengthening official and military ties with Taiwan, including the launch of a $750 million arms sale plan to Taiwan, the landing of US military aircraft in Taiwan and frequent sailing of US warships across the Taiwan Strait. These provocative moves undermine China-US relations and regional peace and stability. China is firmly opposed to them and has taken necessary countermeasures.

The one-China principle is the political foundation of China-US relations. On the Taiwan question, the US should abide by the one-China principle and the stipulations of the China-US joint communiques rather than something cooked up by itself unilaterally.

"Taiwan independence" leads nowhere. China will take all necessary measures to resolutely crush all attempts at "Taiwan independence". China has firm resolve and will to safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The US should correct its mistakes, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the stipulations of the three China-US joint communiques, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, stop supporting and emboldening separatist forces of "Taiwan independence", and take concrete actions to safeguard rather than undermine peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian's Regular Press Conference on October 8, 2021

2021-10-08 20:54

Premier Li Keqiang will attend the opening ceremony of the 130th China Import and Export Fair and the Pearl River International Trade Forum and deliver a keynote speech in Guangzhou on October 14.

CCTV: I wonder if you could provide any information on a possible meeting between the Chinese and US heads of state?

Zhao Lijian: Following the spirit of the phone call between Chinese and US heads of state on September 10, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs Yang Jiechi met with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Zurich, Switzerland. The two sides had a comprehensive, candid and in-depth exchange of views on China-US relations and international and regional issues of common concern.

During their phone call on September 10, the two heads of state agreed to maintain frequent contact by multiple means. To act on their consensus, Director Yang Jiechi and NSA Jake Sullivan discussed during the meeting a video conference between the two heads of state before the end of this year.

CRI: How does China see the recent meeting between Director Yang Jiechi and US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan? How do you envision China-US relations after the meeting?

Zhao Lijian: This high-level meeting was constructive, and conducive to enhancing mutual understanding.

Director Yang Jiechi pointed out that whether China and the United States can handle their relations well bears on the fundamental interests of the two countries and two peoples, as well as the future of the world. When China and the United States cooperate, the two countries and the world will benefit; when China and the United States are in confrontation, the two countries and the world will suffer severely. The US side needs to have a deep understanding of the mutually beneficial nature of China-US relations and correctly understand China's domestic and foreign policies and strategic intentions. China opposes defining China-US relations as "competitive".

China attaches importance to the positive remarks on China-US relations made recently by US President Joe Biden, and has noticed that the US side said it has no intention of containing China's development, and does not seek a "new Cold War". China hopes the US side could adopt a rational and pragmatic China policy, and, together with China, respect each other's core interests and major concerns, and follow a path of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation.

Director Yang Jiechi expounded China's solemn position on issues related to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, Xizang and human rights as well as maritime issues, urging the US side to truly respect China's sovereignty, security and development interests, and stop using the above issues to interfere in China's internal affairs.

The two sides agreed to take action, following the spirit of the phone call between Chinese and US heads of state on September 10, strengthen strategic communication, properly manage differences, avoid conflict and confrontation, seek mutual benefits and win-win results, and work together to bring China-US relations back on the right track of sound and steady development.

AFP: I have two questions. A Pentagon official has said that US Special Operations forces have been quietly training troops in Taiwan for months. How does Beijing react to this? The CIA has announced a new China-focused unit to counter alleged security threats from Beijing. How do you react to this?

Zhao Lijian: On your first question, the one-China principle is the political foundation of China-US relations. China and the US established diplomatic relations on the premise of the three principles, namely, the US should sever "diplomatic relations" and abrogate the "mutual defense treaty" with the Taiwan authorities and withdraw US military forces from Taiwan. The US explicitly pledges in the China-US Joint Communique on the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations that it will "maintain cultural, commercial, and other unofficial relations with the people of Taiwan". The US should fully recognize the highly sensitive nature of Taiwan-related issues and the gravely detrimental nature of relevant issues, abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, and stop arms sales to and military ties with Taiwan to avoid seriously damaging China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. China will take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

On your second question, this is a typical symptom of the Cold War mentality. Relevant US agency should view China's development and China-US relations in an objective and rational light and stop doing things detrimental to mutual trust and cooperation between China and the US and China's sovereignty, security and development interests.

TASS News Agency: According to the US Navy statement, on October 2, US Navy nuclear-powered submarine USS Connecticut was damaged after it struck an unknown object while submerged in the waters of the Indo-Pacific region. According to media reports, the incident occurred in the waters of the South China Sea. Do you have any comments on this?

Zhao Lijian: We are gravely concerned about the incident. As the party involved, the US should clarify in specific details what happened, including the exact location of the incident, the US side's navigation intention, the details of the incident, the object the submarine struck, whether the collision caused a nuclear leak or damaged local marine environment, etc.

I would also like to stress three points about the incident. First, the US has long been making trouble in the South China Sea in the name of "freedom of navigation", which poses a grave threat and major risks for regional peace and stability. This is the root cause of this incident. Second, the US deliberately stalled and concealed the specifics of the incident without transparency and due responsibility. China and other countries surrounding the South China Sea cannot help but ask what truly happened and what the US intention is. Third, we can also see the following from this incident. The US and the UK recently decided to conduct nuclear submarine cooperation with Australia, a non-nuclear weapon state, and flagrantly proliferate nuclear submarines in the Asia-Pacific. This is bound to create nuclear proliferation risks, spark an arms race and undermine efforts to establish a Southeast Asia nuclear-free-zone. The odds of a nuclear incident will also increase dramatically. The US should abandon the obsolete Cold War zero-sum mentality and narrow geopolitical notions, and stop such erroneous practice that undermine regional peace, stability and development.

Shenzhen TV: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov recently said that by putting forward an Indo-Pacific strategy and creating the Quad mechanism and the AUKUS security partnership, the US intends to undercut the decades-old ASEAN-centered cooperation model. Such a strategy towards handling regional politics is aimed at openly containing China and undermining the existing system. Does the Chinese side have a comment?

Zhao Lijian: That's very well-put indeed! Foreign Minister Lavrov's views reflect the shared concern of the vast majority of ASEAN countries. The US Indo-Pacific strategy, AUKUS and Quad are all closed and exclusive cliques informed by the Cold War zero-sum mentality with strong military security undertones. They will spur regional arms race, aggravate tension, and undermine regional unity and cooperation. The US practice of ganging up against a third party runs counter to regional countries' common aspiration to seek shared development through dialogue and cooperation and advance regional integration. It wins no hearts and has no future. Many ASEAN countries have questioned and opposed these moves to various degrees.

The ASEAN-centered regional cooperation architecture is consistent with East Asian tradition and realistic needs. It is of great significance for enhancing regional countries' solidarity, cooperation and common development, and should be cherished and consolidated. Regional countries should be on high alert for any attempt to weaken and hollow ASEAN centrality and jointly reject all erroneous practices that violate international fairness and justice, create division and stoke confrontation in the region.

CCTV: Yesterday, during the UNGA First Committee (Disarmament & International Security) meeting, China and Russia issued a foreign ministers' Joint Statement on Strengthening the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction. Could you offer more information about the statement and China's position?

Zhao Lijian: On October 7, during the general debate of the UNGA First Committee, the Chinese side, on behalf of China and Russia, read out the Joint Statement by State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov on Strengthening the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production and Stockpiling of Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weapons and on their Destruction (BWC). This is the first time that China and Russia have released a joint statement on this issue. It demonstrates the high level of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic coordination in a new era as well as the two countries' strong determination and responsible attitude towards safeguarding global biosecurity and defending multilateralism.

The Joint Statement mainly reiterates that the BWC is essential as a pillar of the international peace and security, and should be fully and effectively implemented with multilateral monitoring and verification mechanisms to be established as soon as possible. It also notes that military biological activities conducted by the US on and outside its national territory pose serious security risks for China, Russia, and other countries and relevant regions. The US has been the only one opposing the establishment of a verification regime for 20 years, which has led to growing international doubts. The statement urges the US to clarify its military biological activities at home and overseas and to stop obstructing the establishment of a verification regime.

I would like to stress that the above-mentioned position of China and Russia also demonstrates the wide consensus of the international community. At the recently-convened BWC conference, more than 100 countries called for the resumption of negotiations for a verification protocol so as to establish a verification regime at an early date. However, the US alone has continued to resist the call in stubborn opposition to the entire international community. This has caused greater suspicion and concern from various sides.

China and Russia, together with the international community, will remain committed to strengthening the BWC mechanism, work for substantive outcomes at next year's BWC Review Conference and constantly improve the global biosecurity governance system. The US should adopt a responsible attitude and earnestly address the international community's concerns to give the world confidence in its compliance with BWC obligations as a State Party.

Associated Press of Pakistan: On October 7, at least 20 people were killed and over 300 injured following a powerful earthquake in Balochistan Province of Pakistan. Do you have any comment on that?

Zhao Lijian: China has been following the situation closely in the aftermath of the earthquake in Pakistan. We mourn the victims, extend condolences to the bereaved families and express sympathy for the injured. China and Pakistan have a fine tradition of mutual assistance. We stand ready to provide Pakistan with timely assistance to the best of our ability based on its needs.

China Daily: Ethiopia's new parliament held its first meeting on October 4, and the incumbent Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was sworn in for a new term. Do you have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: China extends congratulations on Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's reelection. We believe that under his leadership, Ethiopia will continue to make new achievements in national development.

Ethiopia is China's comprehensive strategic cooperative partner in Africa and an important participant in China-Africa cooperation under the BRI. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties more than 50 years ago, China-Ethiopia relations have maintained sound development with deepening political mutual trust and fruitful cooperation outcomes in various sectors. The Chinese side looks forward to working together with the new Ethiopian government to continuously scale new heights in our relations.

Beijing Media Network: At the initiative of China and African countries, 78 countries made a statement at the general debate of the Third Committee of the 76th session of the UNGA. They called for accelerated implementation of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action and the elimination of racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance. Do you have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: This year marks the 20th anniversary of the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. Due to the inaction and botched performance of a few countries including the United States, the international community still has a long way to go to eliminate racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.

Although Americans hold the truth to be self-evident that all men are created equal, racism and white supremacy are still spreading in the US. The COVID-19 pandemic further underlines systemic discrimination against ethnic minorities like people of African, Latin American and Asian descent in the United States. Anthony Fauci, the Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, said frankly that the health disparities amid the COVID-19 epidemic have shone a bright light on the American society's failings. Besides, there have been widespread police brutality and hate crimes targeting ethnic minorities, and deep-seated social inequality faced by vulnerable groups including women, children and the elderly. This has again torn to pieces the US disguise of "equality" and "freedom".

A handful of countries, including the US, that are afflicted by chronic systemic racial discrimination, boycotted and were absent from the High-level Meeting of the UNGA to Commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action. This is irresponsible. If the US truly cares about human rights and is committed to realizing racial equality, it should redress its deplorable human rights record, eliminate the rampant racial discrimination at home, rather than sit idly by as radical ideas like white supremacy and hate towards ethnic minorities lead to new tragedies.

Bloomberg: The US Trade Representative Katherine Tai is set to speak with Vice Premier Liu He soon. And at that time, she is expected to mainly stress China's shortfalls in trade under the trade deal that was struck between the former President Donald Trump and China. My question is, does the foreign ministry have a comment on recent efforts to reengage on the trade issue between US and China? And specifically, the term "re-coupling" was mentioned by Tai. What's the foreign ministry's understanding and view of this term "re-coupling"?

Zhao Lijian: I'll refer you to the competent department for specific issues relating to China-US economic and trade relations. In principle, I'd like to stress that China-US economic and trade relations are essentially mutually-beneficial. There is no winner in a trade war. Issues in bilateral economic and trade relations should be properly dealt with in the spirit of mutual respect and equal-footed consultation. We hope the US will work together with China for the sound and steady development of the bilateral economic and trade ties.

The formation and development of global industrial and supply chains is the result of both market law and choices of the business community. Artificial industrial "transfer" and "decoupling" runs counter to the law of the economy and objective reality. It cannot solve domestic problems and will only seriously undermine the stability and security of global industrial and supply chains. Cooperation and dialogue instead of decoupling and confrontation is the strong aspiration of various sectors in both China and the US, including the business community. The US should heed these calls and do more things conducive to the sound and steady development of China-US economic and trade ties.

AFP: A French senator visiting Taipei has referred to Taiwan as a "country". How does Beijing view the visit by the French delegation to Taiwan?

Zhao Lijian: There is only one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. Referring to Taiwan as a "country" is a flagrant violation of the consensus of the international community, France included. People like Alain Richard either lack basic respect for and knowledge of norms governing international relations, or attempt to hijack state-to-state relations out of selfish agenda. China expresses strong condemnation and firm opposition to this. We hope France can earnestly abide by the one-China principle and avoid sending wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" forces.

CCTV: The Afghan Taliban said in a statement on the 20th anniversary of the US' invasion of Afghanistan issued on October 7 that the US invasion over the past 20 years has resulted in nothing but casualties and countless financial losses. They hope that the UN, the richest countries in the world and various other organizations will lend a helping hand to the Afghan people, and not use their aid and assistance as a tool of political pressure. Do you have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: US troops entered Afghanistan in the name of counter-terrorism 20 years ago, and started its two-decade-long military intervention and occupation. It undermined Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and socioeconomic development and also caused a humanitarian disaster there. According to academic assessment, the war in Afghanistan claimed an average of 250 lives on a daily basis. According to the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, from the start of the war, more than 100,000 Afghan civilians were killed by US troops, hundreds of thousands were injured, and tens of millions became refugees.

Historical records and facts have proven that what the US has done in Afghanistan is out of selfish interest. It is for selfish interest that the US waged the war. It is for selfish interest that the US kept its troops stationed in Afghanistan. It is also for selfish interest that the US initiated a reckless troops withdrawal. Now the Afghan people have a window of opportunity to realize peace and start reconstruction. The international community should, on the basis of respecting Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, support the Afghan people in taking control of their own destiny, and help Afghanistan maintain stability, prevent chaos and realize sound development.

As the culprit of the Afghan issue, the US cannot shirk its responsibility for peace and reconstruction in Afghanistan. It should be responsible for what it has done in the past two decades, and cannot simply walk away and shift the responsibility for reconstruction to the international community. More importantly, the US should change its misguided old habits of wantonly resorting to military interference in other countries and imposing its own will on others to avoid the repetition of the tragedy that has claimed and ruined so many lives.

RIA Novosti: Russian President's special representative on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov said yesterday that Moscow plans to hold international talks on Afghanistan on October 20. I wonder if China has received an invitation to this meeting and who will represent China there?

Zhao Lijian: China supports all international efforts that are conducive to promoting peace and stability and gathering consensus in Afghanistan. The Chinese side has received Russia's invitation. We stand ready to maintain communication and coordination with relevant sides including Russia.

Beijing Youth Daily: According to reports, Guinea's interim president Mamadi Doumbouya appointed Mohamed Beavogui the interim prime minister on October 6. Does China have any comment?

Zhao Lijian: We noted the recent important progress in advancing domestic political transition made by various sides in Guinea. It is China's hope that relevant sides in Guinea will keep up dialogue and consultation, and strive to maintain overall national stability and development with the support of regional and international organizations. China and Guinea have a traditional friendship. We stand ready to work together with Guinea to constantly develop our friendly cooperative relations.

Phoenix TV: US President Joe Biden said that he has spoken to Chinese President Xi Jinping about Taiwan and they agreed to abide by relevant agreement concerning the Taiwan question. Can you confirm that this was part of the conversation between the two sides?

Zhao Lijian: China's position on the Taiwan question is consistent and clear. The one-China principle is the political foundation of China-US relations. On the Taiwan question, the United States has made clear commitments to China. In his phone call with President Xi Jinping, President Biden made it clear that the United States has no intention to change the one-China policy. We urge the US side to earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, translate relevant commitments into concrete action, prudently and properly handle Taiwan-related issues, and avoid sending wrong signals to the "Taiwan independence" separatist forces, lest it should seriously damage China-US relations and peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

During his meeting with US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan in Zurich, Switzerland on October 6, Director Yang Jiechi once again expounded China's solemn position on issues related to Taiwan, urging the US side to truly respect China's sovereignty, security and development interests, abide by the one-China principle and the three China-US joint communiques, and stop using Taiwan-related issues to interfere in China's internal affairs. The US side expressed its adherence to the one-China policy.

NHK: First question, on October 10 the Tsai Ing-wen authorities will hold a military drill. Do you have any comment? Second question, a large number of Chinese military aircraft entered the Taiwan authorities' so-called "air defense identification zone" this month. What's the purpose of this?

Zhao Lijian: Neither of your questions is about foreign affairs. I would refer you to the competent departments.

Kyodo News Agency: Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida delivered his first policy speech on October 8, in which he said that building a stable relationship with China is important and that dialogue should be maintained to jointly address shared problems while urging China to take responsible actions. What is China's comment?

Zhao Lijian: China and Japan are each other's important and close neighbor and cooperative partner. As important countries in the region, the two countries share expansive interests and broad space for cooperation. We hope the Japanese side can work with China, abide by the principles set out in the four political documents, follow the spirit of learning lessons from history to embrace the future, step up dialogue and communication and boost mutual trust and cooperation, so as to jointly promote sound and steady development of China-Japan relations in the right direction.

Bloomberg: Just to go back to the President Biden-President Xi summit which you mentioned would happen before the end of the year. Do you have any more specific details in terms of the time frame? And what might be on the agenda and the format of that meeting? Do you have any more details about that?

Zhao Lijian: I just clearly elaborated on China's position and have no more information to share at the moment.

Reuters: US Secretary of State Blinken said that the US wants China to act responsibly when it comes to addressing the potential impact of China Evergrande Group's financial crisis. Do you have any comment on Blinken's remarks?

Zhao Lijian: I have noted relevant reports. I would refer you to competent authorities for your specific question. I want to stress that China has always adopted a responsible macroeconomic policy and is committed to promoting high-quality development. In recent years, the Chinese economy has become an important engine and stabilizer of world economic growth, contributing around 30 percent to global economic growth for years in a row.
Notice for 2021 China-Africa Video and Photo Competition

2021-05-25 15:55

I. Introduction of the Competition

In order to enhance mutual understanding between Chinese and African people and to tell the stories of China-Africa cooperation and affinity between our peoples, the 2021 China-Africa Video and Photo Competition, jointly sponsored by the Secretariat of the Chinese Follow-up Committee of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and China International Publishing Group (CIPG), was officially launched on May 21.

With the theme of "Friendship in Focus, Together for Future", the competition collects videos and photos from Chinese and African people and institutions. The winning works will be displayed at the award ceremony and promoted through mainstream media in China and Africa.

II. Entry Specifications

Video Group:

1. Entries are divided into two categories.

Micro videos: 30 seconds to 1 minute;

Short videos: 1 minute to 5 minutes

2. The works should reflect real people and events and convey positive energy.

3. Micro videos can be shot in either horizontal or vertical format. Short videos are preferred in horizontal format.

4. The video format should be high-definition MP4; the aspect ratio should be 16:9 or 9:16; the file size should not exceed 400MB; the video should be clean without corner labels, watermarks or logos.

Photo (Collection) Group:

1. The photo works should be clear, without corner labels, watermarks or logos; landscape mode is preferred.

2. Computer synthesis processing is not allowed, but the relevant software can be used to adjust the size and color of the picture.

3. The resolution should be no less than 300dpi.

4. Each collection of works is limited to 6 photos.

Other Requirements:

1. The content of the entries should be positive and must not involve pornography, violence, religious and racial discrimination and should not be placed in advertisements.

2. Video works should be accompanied by subtitles in Chinese, English or French. Works with bilingual subtitles will be given preference. Photo works should be submitted together with a description of the work in Chinese, English or French.

III. Entry Submission

Method 1:

Submit the relevant works to the registration email address contacts@chinafrica.cn, with "Country - Entrant's Name - Work Name" in the email title, and attach the entry form (need to download). The video works that meet the requirements can also be uploaded to a network drive and the link and password of the network drive can be sent by email. Baidu Netdisk is recommended in China and Google Drive is recommended in other countries.

Method 2:

African micro video participants can upload their works through the topic page in Vskit platform with hashtag #2021ChinaAfricaVideo&PhotoCompetition.

IV. Schedule of the Competition

May 21, 2021: Launch of the Competition

May 21  July 20, 2021: Collection of Works

August 1  August 20, 2021: Online voting and expert evaluation of shortlisted works

Early September 2021: Awards Ceremony

V. Dissemination of Works

Outstanding works will be promoted on the following platforms (not limited to):

1. Displayed at the award ceremony of the 2021 China-Africa Video and Photo Competition.

2. Promoted by Chinese embassy in Sierra Leone; released on the domestic and international media platforms under CIPG.

3. Broadcast by authoritative partners in China and Africa

4. Released on platforms such as Yangshipin, Vskit and Scooper.

VI. Award Setting

The competition will select 90 finalists from the collected works. Based on the results of expert review and online voting, the awards will be as follows:

1. One special prize for video group (including micro videos and short videos) and one special prize for photo group (collection), with a prize of RMB 10,000;

2. Micro video, short video, photo (collection) group: 2 first prize winners (6 in total), with a prize of 5,000 yuan each; 4 second prize winners (12 in total), with a prize of 3,000 yuan each; 6 third prize winners (18 in total), with a prize of 1,000 yuan each;

3. There will be one prize for the Highest Popularity Award, one for the Best Editing Award, one for the Best Creativity Award and one for the Best Visual Effect Award, with a prize of 2,000 yuan each.

4. For the relevant participating groups or organizations, there will be 10 awards for the organization of the event, with a prize of 2,000 yuan each.

5. There will be 50 Friendship Award winners from other shortlisted works, who will receive certificates and prizes.

VII. Copyright

1. The submitted works must be created by the participating people (organizations) and have full copyright.

2. If any dispute arises with regard to copyright, trademark right, reputation right and any other legal rights and interests related to the work, the consequences and losses shall be borne by the people (organizations) submitting the entry.

3. The right of dissemination, exhibition, and publication of the submitted works belongs to the organizing committee of the competition. The organizer and relevant units have the right to promote, display and publicize the submitted works. The organizer will indicate the name of the entrant and other relevant information when using the submitted works. The people (organizations) submitting the entry agree to transfer the intellectual property rights of their works (except the right of attribution) to the organizer when they submit their works.

4. The final right of interpretation of this competition belongs to China International Publish Group.

VIII. Selection Rules

The award-winning works of the competition shall be decided by the opinions of a jury and online voting. The jury is composed of the competition organizers, senior figures, experts and scholars, etc., and is responsible for the evaluation of the entries.

IX. Contact

Telephone: 010-68995807

Email: likzh@chinafrica.cn

For more information, please go to the official website of the competition:

http://www.chinafrica.cn/2021_CHINA_AFRICA_VIDEO_AND_PHOTO_COMPETITION/
As the Communist Party of China (CPC) is celebrating the 100th anniversary of her founding this year, the Chinese Embassy co-hosted an online symposium themed The Great Achievements of the Communist Party of China in the Past 100 Years with the Sierra Leone Peoples Party(SLPP) on June 22, 2021.

H.E. Chinese Ambassador Hu Zhangliang, Hon. National Secretary General of SLPP and Deputy Minister of Justice Mr. Umaru Napoleon Koroma, Hon. Acting Minister of MFAIC Mme. Mamadi Gobeh Kamara, high-ranking members of SLPP, representatives of China-Sierra Leone friendship associations as well as friends from media joined in the online symposium. Two Chinese scholars, Prof. Xie and Dr. Li respectively shared experience of the CPC in targeted poverty alleviation and party construction and development, which was warmly welcomed.

In his speech, Ambassador Hu expounded that always staying true to its original aspiration and mission of seeking happiness for the Chinese people and rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is why the CPC has been able to lead China from standing up, getting rich to becoming powerful in the past 100 years, grow from a party with only 50 plus members to the largest political party in the world with more than 91 million members today, and enjoy over 90% of approval among the Chinese people, ranking the first in the world for many years. He said that as this year also marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Sierra Leone, China stands ready to further strengthen cooperation with Sierra Leone in all fields and steadily push the relations between the two parties and two countries to new heights.

Hon. Secretary General Umaru Koroma and Hon. Acting Minister Mamadi Kamara congratulated the CPC on its 100th anniversary of founding on behalf of the ruling party SLPP and the Sierra Leonean government. They thanked the Chinese government under the leadership of the CPC for all the support to Sierra Leone in areas including socio-economic development, human capital development and health etc. They envisaged an ever-deepening China-Sierra Leone friendship and a closer China-Sierra Leone community with a shared future in the next half a century.

The other attendees offered their felicitations to the Chinese people and the CPC on the auspicious occasion and contributed to the symposium by giving their observations in poverty alleviation and promoting China-Sierra Leone practical cooperation.
News Bulletin

No.6, 2021

2021-07-02 18:47

Politicization of COVID-19 Should be Rejected

The past year and more have seen repeated resurgence of the coronavirus and the pandemic is still wreaking havoc. Since the very beginning, China has been joining hands with all other countries in an effort to pull through the tough time together. China has launched the largest emergency humanitarian operation since the founding of the People's Republic of China, and supported global economic recovery and post-pandemic reconstruction, contributing China's part to the building of a global community of health for all.

At the moment, staying united to fight the pandemic is still the pressing priority for the world. However, some countries have recently been renewing their efforts in politicizing on the COVID-19 origin tracing issue. Instead of upholding science, reason and objectivity in advancing the research of COVID-19 origins, they keep hyping up the "lab leak theory" and relentlessly attacking China.

China has made clear its serious and responsible attitude toward origin-tracing and has taken the lead in collaborating with WHO on global origin-tracing. Since last year, China has twice invited WHO experts (including those from the US, UK, Japan and Australia etc.) to China for joint study of origins. In March, 2021, the WHO released the origin-tracing study report of the China-WHO joint mission, drawing a clear conclusion that lab leak is extremely unlikely. The report was co-authored by more than 30 top global experts in various fields, which is widely representative and highly professional.

It's common understanding that the origin-tracing of COVID-19 must not be politicized and that it must be based on science, conducted through cooperation and proceeded with global collaboration. WHO experts also pointed out that future origin-tracing should be conducted in multiple countries and regions instead of bounding to one location.

Many scientists in the international community, including Dr. Danielle Anderson, a former Assistant Professor at Duke-NUS Medical School who once worked in the Wuhan Institute of Virology, have expressed unequivocal opposition to politicizing the origin-tracing by some in the US. Dr. Anderson said that she's dumbfounded by the portrayal of the lab by some media outside China, and the toxic attacks on scientists that have ensued. Dr. Anderson pointed out that there were strict protocols and requirements at the Wuhan Institute of Virology and entering and exiting the facility was a carefully choreographed endeavor. Responding to the Wall Street Journal report which claimed three researchers from the lab were hospitalized with flu-like symptoms in November 2019, she said no one she knew at the Wuhan institute was ill toward the end of 2019.

Besides, Massimo Galli, head of the Infectious Diseases Unit at the University of Milan-affiliated Luigi Sacco Hospital in Milan, Italy, said that the coronavirus is an unknown virus with no signs of genome engineering inside and the "lab-leak" theory has no scientific basis at all. Galli and three other Italian experts believe that the virus is 99% likely to be the result of natural spillover.

Facts have proved time and again that the accusation of "Wuhan laboratory leaking the novel coronavirus" has no factual basis. But some people in the US have been clamoring for intelligence-led investigation in disregard of science and facts. It is reported that the US experts on the coronavirus origins task force of the authoritative medical journal the Lancet are under "threat", and the chair of the task force is even "pressured" to ask the experts on the task force to renounce the "bat-spillover" theory, which is underpinned by ample scientific evidence, and turn to support the "lab leak" theory. Some experts may have to resign in order to uphold their scientific positions.

It violates the spirit of science, undermines global cooperation in origin tracing and defiles human justice for certain people and certain countries to sinisterly force scientists to bow to their hegemony, bullying and coercion. Relevant countries and people should immediately halt their politicization of origins study out of their hidden political agenda because such practices are immoral, unpopular and doomed to failure.

Origin-tracing is vital to the global fight against the pandemic, and concerns the well-being of the entire humanity. As a responsible major country, China will continue to, with a science-based, open and transparent attitude, actively support and participate in the global origin-tracing research, and steadily make new contributions to this endeavor.
Another Batch of COVID-19 Vaccines and Testing Kits Donated by China Handed Over to Sierra Leone

2021-08-19 19:13

On August 18, 2021, 200,000 vials of COVID-19 vaccine manufactured by Sino-pharm, 201,600 pieces of syringes, 40,000 Novel Coronavirus Nucleic Acid Diagnostic Kits and 50,000 Novel Coronavirus Antigen Detection Kits donated by the Chinese government to Sierra Leone were formally handed over to the government of Sierra Leone at the Ministry of Health and Sanitation. H.E. Chinese Ambassador Hu Zhangliang, Hon. Minister of Health and Sanitation Dr. Austin Demby, Hon. Chairman of NaCOVERC Dr. Sheku. F. Bangura and other dignitaries, friends and representatives graced the hand-over ceremony.

Ambassador Hu said that this donation is meant for further supporting Sierra Leones fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and it is one of Chinas concrete actions in implementing the solemn commitments made by H.E. President Xi Jinping.

Hon. Minister Demby and Hon. Chairman of NaCOVERC Bangura, on behalf of H.E. President Maada Bio, thanked China for the kind donation. Hon. Minister Demby highlighted that China is the most responsive country when Sierra Leone needs help and the vaccines provided by China are safe and efficacious.
H.E. Ambassador Hu Zhangliang's Statement on the Occasion of the 72nd Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China

2021-10-01 11:16

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear friends,

Today, with great joy and excitement, we are celebrating the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

72 years ago, on October 1st, 1949, the People's Republic of China was established, since then the course of Chinese history in modern times and the landscape of world development have been profoundly transformed.

Over the past 72 years, the Chinese nation has moved from standing up and getting prosperous to becoming strong. And the living standards of the Chinese people have been elevated from bare subsistence to moderate prosperity in all respects.

Over the past several decades, China has been following the path of peaceful development, practicing an independent foreign policy of peace and adopting a win-win strategy of opening-up. China has firmly upheld multilateralism, safeguarded the UN-centered international system, and promoted the international order underpinned by the international law. China has always maintained solidarity with developing countries in promoting world peace and common development.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear friends,

The year 2021 is of great significance for China. It marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China, the successful realization of the first centenary goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects and the start of a new journey toward realizing the great national rejuvenation. Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with President Xi Jinping at its core, China is marching toward the second centenary goal of building a great modern socialist country in an all round way.

In 2021, China's economic and social recovery from COVID-19 pandemic has been accelerated. In order to protect people's lives and health, China kept in place effective prevention and control measures with great courage, firm determination and exceptional resilience. China succeeded not only in bringing the pandemic under control but also boosting economic and social development. In the first half of this year, China's GDP exceeded 53 trillion RMB yuan, a year-on-year increase of 12.7%, injecting powerful impetus to the global recovery. For the second half of this year, China's economic growth continues to be robust and impressive.

In 2021, China registered complete victory in the fight against poverty. The eradication of absolute poverty in China represents another miraculous achievement. It is a concrete but strategic step taken by China in promoting human rights, especially the rights to subsistence and development. China has achieved the first target of the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals 10 years ahead of schedule. Since China's reform and opening up 43 year ago, the number of China's rural population raised out of poverty accounted for more than 70 percent of the global total over the period.

In 2021, China achieved new breakthroughs in scientific and technological advancement. China's Tianwen-1 probe successfully landed on Mars. A 62-qubit programmable superconducting quantum processor Zu Chongzhi was successfully designed. China's space station core module Tianhe was launched. Recently three Chinese astronauts returned to Earth after working in space for three months and another three astronauts are about to take the next ride very soon, hitting a new milestone in China's peaceful exploration of the space.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear friends,

The year 2021 also marks the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the legitimate seat of the PRC in the United Nations. China's relations with the world has been further enhanced. H.E. President Xi Jinping attended a series of major diplomatic events such as the Leaders' Climate Summit, the Global Health Summit and the General Debate of the 76th UN General Assembly etc.. President Xi repeatedly put forward China's proposals for the world to fight the pandemic together, strengthen international cooperation, and jointly create a better future for mankind. President Xi also solemnly announced a series of new measures and commitments on behalf of China towards those undertakings, including the provision of 2 billion doses of vaccine to the world throughout this year and 3 billion USD of assistance to the international community in 3 years.

In 2021, China firmly defended her sovereignty, security, development interests, national dignity and international justice. China continued making earnest contributions to the building of a new type of international relations, appropriately handled her relations with other major countries and cemented friendship with her neighbors and other developing countries.

In 2021, the implementation of the follow-up actions of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) entered the final stage. The eight major initiatives for China-Africa cooperation have been fully delivered and China-Africa cooperation on the Belt and Road Initiative has been carried out smoothly. Despite the pandemic, more than 1,100 cooperation projects were maintained in operation unimpeded and about 100,000 Chinese technical and engineering personnel stood by their posts, supporting the economic and social development of African countries. A new FOCAC conference is scheduled to be held in Senegal in November. It can be safely predicted that with the concerted efforts of all the FOCAC members, the conference will yield new tangible results and open up a new chapter for China-Africa mutual beneficial cooperation.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear friends,

In 2021, China and Sierra Leone warmly celebrated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. H.E. President Xi Jinping and H.E. President Julius Maada Bio held a telephone conversation in May this year and exchanged congratulatory messages on July 29. As can be seen, new progress has been made this year in China-Sierra Leone cooperation in a wide range of areas, especially the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, infrastructure building and human resources development etc..

Standing at the new starting point, under the guidance of the two heads of state, the Chinese side will continue to work hand in hand with the Sierra Leonean side in further deepening bilateral relationship and proactively seeking common development.

In conclusion, I would like to propose a toast,

to the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China,

to the prosperity of both China and Sierra Leone,

to the longevity of China-Sierra Leone friendship,

to the good health of all of you,

Cheers!
News Bulletin

No.5, 2021

2021-04-02 01:04

The Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China deliberated on and adopted the amendments to Annexes I and II to the Basic Law of the Hong Kong SAR

On March 30th, 2021, the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress of China deliberated on and adopted the amendments to Annexes I and II to the Basic Law of the Hong Kong SAR. This is a move to systemically revise and improve the methods for the selection of the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong SAR and for the formation of the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong SAR. It will provide strong institutional safeguards for the full and faithful implementation of the policy of One Country, Two Systems and the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong", and ensure the stability of Hong Kong in the long run. It embodies the common aspiration of the Chinese people, including the Hong Kong compatriots.

The move to improve the electoral system of the Hong Kong SAR aims to develop, in a gradual and orderly manner, a democratic system that is in line with the constitutional order of Hong Kong and suited to its actual situation. It will better ensure extensive and balanced political participation of Hong Kong residents and serve the interests of all social strata, all sectors and all parties of Hong Kong society. It will help improve the governance efficacy of the Hong Kong SAR, safeguard the fundamental interests of Hong Kong and promote its long-term development. The new electoral system will help foster a better political, social, legal and business environment and usher in brighter development prospects for Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China and Hong Kong affairs are China's internal affairs. The Chinese government has the resolve and confidence to safeguard the sovereignty, security and development interests of the country and the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. It has the resolve and confidence to ensure the continued success of the policy of One Country, Two Systems, under which the people of Hong Kong administer Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy. Any attempt to meddle in Hong Kong affairs and impose pressure on China is doomed to fail.

The full text of Annexes I and II to the Basic Law of the Hong Kong SAR can be accessed at:

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2021-03/30/c_139846350.htm

(End of Item)
H.E. President Xi Jinping and H.E. President Julius Maada Bio Speak on the Phone

2021-05-08 11:06

On May 7, 2021, H.E. Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation with H.E. Sierra Leonean President Julius Maada Bio.

Noting that this year marks the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between China and Sierra Leone, President Xi pointed out that over the half century, no matter how the international situation changes, the two countries have always supported each other on issues related to their respective core interests and major concerns, and have always stood firmly together at critical moments in the face of such major infectious diseases as Ebola and COVID-19.

The two sides, he added, have always maintained a high level of political mutual trust and are good brothers and good friends.

Chinese medical teams, expert teams, anti-epidemic supplies and vaccines have played a positive role in Sierra Leone's epidemic prevention and control, he said.

Stressing that this year is important to the two countries, their parties and their relations, President Xi suggested that the two sides join hands to hold 50th-anniversary celebrations, carry forward their traditional friendship, expand mutually beneficial cooperation and promote common development.

China will continue to provide as much support and assistance as its capacity allows for Sierra Leone's national economic development, he said, adding that as the world is undergoing transformations rarely seen in a century, the two sides should strengthen unity and cooperation, firmly support each other, and jointly safeguard international equity and justice as well as the common interests of developing countries.

The Chinese side, he said, is willing to work with Sierra Leone to strengthen coordination within the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the FOCAC.

For his part, President Bio expressed warm congratulations on the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic ties between Sierra Leone and China.

President Bio said that China, in the spirit of putting people first, has made remarkable achievements in getting rid of poverty and fighting the COVID-19 epidemic, which has not only made itself stronger, but also made important contributions to world peace, security and economic growth.

He thanked China for its concrete and practical assistance for Sierra Leone's economic and social development and the African country's fight against the pandemic, saying that China is a true and trustworthy good friend of Sierra Leone and the African people.

Sierra Leone firmly upholds the one-China policy and firmly supports China in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity, President Bio said.

Sierra Leone stands ready to work with China to deepen their friendship, strengthen cooperation in such areas as education, health and food security, and advance cooperation within the framework of the FOCAC, he added. Enditem

(Source: Xinhua News)
Working Together to Build a Global Community of Health for All

2021-05-21 21:44

Remarks by H.E. Xi Jinping

President of the People's Republic of China

At the Global Health Summit

21 May 2021

Your Excellency Prime Minister Mario Draghi,

Your Excellency President Ursula von der Leyen,

Dear Colleagues,

It gives me great pleasure to attend the Global Health Summit. Last year, the G20 successfully held an Extraordinary Leaders' Summit on COVID-19 and the Riyadh Summit. Many important common understandings were reached on promoting global solidarity against the virus and boosting world economic recovery.

The past year and more have seen repeated resurgence and frequent mutations of the coronavirus. The most serious pandemic in a century is still wreaking havoc. To clinch an early victory against COVID-19 and restore economic growth remains the top priority for the international community. G20 members need to shoulder responsibilities in global cooperation against the virus. In the meantime, we need to draw on experience both positive and otherwise, and lose no time in remedying deficiencies, closing loopholes and strengthening weak links in a bid to enhance preparedness and capacity for coping with major public health emergencies. Here, I want to make five points on what we need to do.

First, we must put people and their lives first. The battle with COVID-19 is one for the people and by the people. What has happened proves that to completely defeat the virus, we must put people's lives and health front and center, demonstrate a great sense of political responsibility and courage, and make extraordinary responses to an extraordinary challenge. No effort must be spared to attend every case, save every patient, and truly respect the value and dignity of every human life. Meanwhile, it is also important to minimize the potential impact on people's life and maintain general order in our society.

Second, we must follow science-based policies and ensure a coordinated and systemic response. Faced with this new infectious disease, we should advocate the spirit of science, adopt a science-based approach, and follow the law of science. The fight against COVID-19 is an all-out war that calls for a systemic response to coordinate pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, balance targeted routine COVID-19 protocols and emergency measures, and ensure both epidemic control and socio-economic development. G20 members need to adopt responsible macro-economic policies and step up coordination to keep the global industrial and supply chains safe and smooth. It is essential to give continued support by such means as debt suspension and development aid to developing countries, especially vulnerable countries facing exceptional difficulties.

Third, we must stick together and promote solidarity and cooperation. The pandemic is yet another reminder that we humanity rise and fall together with a shared future. Confronted by a pandemic like COVID-19, we must champion the vision of building a global community of health for all, tide over this trying time through solidarity and cooperation, and firmly reject any attempt to politicize, label or stigmatize the virus. Political manipulation would not serve COVID-19 response on the domestic front. It would only disrupt international cooperation against the virus and bring greater harm to people around the world.

Fourth, we must uphold fairness and equity as we strive to close the immunization gap. A year ago, I proposed that vaccines should be made a global public good. Today, the problem of uneven vaccination has become more acute. It is imperative for us to reject vaccine nationalism and find solutions to issues concerning the production capacity and distribution of vaccines, in order to make vaccines more accessible and affordable in developing countries. Major vaccine-developing and producing countries need to take up their responsibility to provide more vaccines to developing countries in urgent need, and they also need to support their businesses in joint research and authorized production with other countries having the relevant capacity. Multilateral financial institutions should provide inclusive financing support for vaccine procurement of developing countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) should speed up efforts under the COVID-19 Vaccine Global Access (COVAX) facility.

Fifth, we must address both the symptoms and root causes as we improve the governance system. The pandemic is an extensive test of the global health governance system. It is important that we strengthen and leverage the role of the UN and the WHO and improve the global disease prevention and control system to better prevent and respond to future pandemics. It is important that we uphold the spirit of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, fully heed the views of developing countries, and better reflect their legitimate concerns. It is also important that we enhance our capacity of monitoring, early-warning and emergency response, our capacity of treatment of major pandemics, of contingency reserve and logistics, of fighting disinformation, and of providing support to developing countries.

Colleagues,

In this unprecedented battle against the pandemic, China has, while receiving support and help from many countries, mounted a massive global humanitarian operation. At the 73rd World Health Assembly held in May last year, I announced five measures that China would take to support global anti-pandemic cooperation. Implementation of those measures is well underway. Notwithstanding the limited production capacity and enormous demand at home, China has honored its commitment by providing free vaccines to more than 80 developing countries in urgent need and exporting vaccines to 43 countries. We have provided 2 billion US dollars in assistance for the COVID-19 response and economic and social recovery in developing countries hit by the pandemic. We have sent medical supplies to more than 150 countries and 13 international organizations, providing more than 280 billion masks, 3.4 billion protective suits and 4 billion testing kits to the world. A cooperation mechanism has been established for Chinese hospitals to pair up with 41 African hospitals, and construction for the China-assisted project of the Africa CDC headquarters officially started at the end of last year. Important progress has also been made in the China-UN joint project to set up in China a global humanitarian response depot and hub. China is fully implementing the G20 Debt Service Suspension Initiative for Poorest Countries and has so far put off debt repayment exceeding 1.3 billion US dollars, the highest deferral amount among G20 members.

In continued support for global solidarity against COVID-19, I wish to announce the following:

- China will provide an additional 3 billion US dollars in international aid over the next three years to support COVID-19 response and economic and social recovery in other developing countries.

- Having already supplied 300 million doses of vaccines to the world, China will provide still more vaccines to the best of its ability.

- China supports its vaccine companies in transferring technologies to other developing countries and carrying out joint production with them.

- Having announced support for waiving intellectual property rights on COVID-19 vaccines, China also supports the World Trade Organization and other international institutions in making an early decision on this matter.

- China proposes setting up an international forum on vaccine cooperation for vaccine-developing and producing countries, companies and other stakeholders to explore ways of promoting fair and equitable distribution of vaccines around the world.

Colleagues,

The ancient Roman philosopher Seneca said, "We are all waves of the same sea." Let us join hands and stand shoulder to shoulder with each other to firmly advance international cooperation against COVID-19, build a global community of health for all, and work for a healthier and brighter future for humanity.
Life science and spacewalk preparations are just part of the busy schedule aboard the International Space Station today.

The seven-member Expedition 66 crew is also gearing up for a Russian cargo mission and a commercial crew swap taking place over the next two weeks.

NASA Flight Engineer Megan McArthur joined Commander Thomas Pesquet of ESA (European Space Agency) in the Columbus laboratory module for muscle scans and measurements. The duo started Monday morning taking turns using an ultrasound device scanning each other's neck, back and leg muscles. They got back together Monday afternoon after exercise sessions and measured each other's muscle tone, stiffness, and elasticity. The measurements are part of the Myotones study which may improve muscle rehabilitation on Earth and in space.

In the U.S. Quest airlock, NASA Flight Engineers Shane Kimbrough and Mark Vande Hei began configuring tools and organizing the module for an upcoming spacewalk. Kimbrough also collected and stowed his blood samples before moving on to light orbital plumbing work. Vande Hei checked carbon dioxide monitors then updated station inventory systems.

Kimbrough is also getting ready for his return to Earth next month with his SpaceX Crew-2 crewmates McArthur, Pesquet and Akihiko Hoshide of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). He and McArthur have started packing their spacecraft, Crew Dragon Endeavour, that will return the quartet to Earth for a splashdown off the coast of Florida ending their six-and-a-half month space mission.

However, the station will soon host eleven crew members just one day after the SpaceX Crew-3 mission launches from Florida on Oct. 31 at 2:21 a.m. EDT. Flying aboard the SpaceX Crew Dragon Endurance will be Commander Raja Chari, Pilot Thomas Marshburn, Mission Specialist Kayla Barron, all NASA astronauts, with Mission Specialist Matthias Maurer of ESA.

But first, there will be a cargo mission blasting off toward the station from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan. The Russian ISS Progress 79 resupply ship will launch on Wednesday at 8 p.m. and dock on Friday at 9:34 p.m. to replenish the orbital residents. Cosmonauts Pyotr Dubrov and Anton Shkaplerov are training for that mission today practicing for the unlikely event they would have to take remote command of the Progress 79. The pair from Roscosmos trained on the Zvezda service module's tele-robotically operated rendezvous unit, or TORU, that would take control during the Progress 79's automated approach and rendezvous.

On-Orbit Status Report

Payloads:

Muscle Tone in Space (Myotones): The crew located and marked measurement points on the body, performed an experiment session with the Myotones device, and performed the Myotones ultrasound scans. Myotones investigation observes the biochemical properties of muscles (e.g. muscle tone, stiffness, elasticity) during long-term exposure spaceflight environment. Results from this investigation can provide a better understanding of the principles of human resting muscle tone. This could lead to the development of new strategies for alternative treatments for rehabilitation on Earth, as well as for future space missions.

Plasma Kristall-4 (PK-4): The crew prepared for the science campaign by connecting the PK-4 chamber to a neon gas supply and configuring the video system. Plasma Krystall-4 (PK-4) is a scientific collaboration between the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos), performing research in the field of Complex Plasmas: low temperature gaseous mixtures composed of ionized gas, neutral gas, and micron-sized particles. The main feature of the PK-4 facility (in comparison with its predecessors onboard the ISS, such as PK-3 and PK-3+) is a new concept of its discharge chamber. Application of a combined discharge that consists of a direct current discharge, inductive HF discharge and capacitive HF discharge allows varying the topology of studied plasma-dust formations in a wide range.

Repository: The crew collected blood and urine samples in support of the Repository investigation. Repository supports scientific discovery that contributes to our fundamental knowledge in the area of human physiological changes and adaptation to a microgravity environment and provides unique opportunities to study longitudinal changes in human physiology spanning many missions. This investigation archives biosamples for use as a resource for future space flight related research.

Standard Measures: The crew collected blood samples in support of the Standard Measures investigation. The aim of the investigation is to ensure consistent capture of an optimized, minimal set of measures from crewmembers until the end of the ISS Program in order to characterize the adaptive responses to and risks of living in space. Among other things, the ground teams perform analyses for metabolic and chemistry panels, immune function, microbiome, etc. These measures populate a data repository to enable high-level monitoring of countermeasure effectiveness and meaningful interpretation of health and performance outcomes, and support future research on planetary missions.

Toilet: The crew verified adequate pretreat dosing from the Dose Pump, inspected the cover on the Toilet Conductivity Sensor inlet and outlet for any pretreated urine leaks, and then filled out a questionnaire. The Toilet System is an Exploration Tech Demo that has evolved into a permanent USOS system. The Toilet has the same basic design as the Orion Universal Waste Management System (UWMS). The Toilet System will be the primary WMS for USOS for up to 90-crew-days and interfaces with the Urine Transfer System (UTS) to allow concurrent WHC/Toilet operations.

Systems:

JSL 20-Port Switch Install: Today, the crew installed the Node 3 JSL 20-Port Switch in place of the previous 16-Port switch. This upgrade was completed to accommodate JSL connectivity for additional wired devices in the wake of the JSL v14 upgrades.

Waste and Hygiene Compartment (WHC) Urine Receptacle (UR) / Insert Filter (IF) R&R: Today, the crew completed routine maintenance to R&R the UR/IF. Following the R&R, the crew cleaned the WHC power supply grilles, reactivated WHC, and performed functionality test.

Completed Task List Activities:

None

Today's Ground Activities:

All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.

Mobile Transporter (MT) Pre-Translation Check Out and Survey

Mobile Transporter (MT) Translation

Mobile Servicing System (MSS) Survey of Crew Dragon

Photovoltaic Controller Unit (PVCU) R6 P4 Patch Load

Look Ahead Plan

Tuesday, October 26 (GMT 299)

Payloads:

Astrobee

CIR manifold bottle exchange

ELF sample holder exchange

FIR LMM remove

HRF urine setup

ManD print remove and stow

Myotones

Toilet

Systems:

CQ Port Cleaning

WHC Air Hose Liquid Indicator

Dragon Departure OBT

Dragon Deorbit Sim

Dragon Conference

ROBOT OBT

PMM Audit

Wednesday, October 27 (GMT 300)

Payloads:

Astrobee off

CAL GSC sample collect

EPO Touching Surfaces

FIR LMM remove (cont'd)

Food Acceptability

J-DMS1 cable reconnect

MELFI2 dewar clean

Myotones

Plasma Kristall-4

Repository

SABL act and c/o

Standard Measures

Toilet

Vascular Aging

Systems:

Cygnus Cargo Ops

Dragon Prepack

EVA PHA Cleaning

EMU CCT Initiation

Thursday, October 28 (GMT 301)

Payloads:

Airborne Particulate Monitor

FIR LMM/FBCE exchange (cont'd)

HRF blood/urine collection

ManD print remove

Plant Habitat-04 gather

Plasma Kristall-4

Repository

Standard Measures

Toilet

Vascular Aging

Systems:

Cygnus Cargo Ops

BPA Filter Installation

EMER Equipment Staging

Today's Planned Activities:

All activities are complete unless otherwise noted.

HRF Generic Urine Collection Male

HRF Generic MELFI Sample Retrieval and Insertion Operations

HRF Generic Urine Collection Stow

HRF Generic HRF Centrifuge Setup and Frozen Blood Collection Subject

HRF Generic HRF Centrifuge Frozen Blood Collection Operator

HRF Generic HRF Centrifuge Frozen Blood Collection Configure and Run

Photo documentation of the spare WOOV

Setup and connection of camcorder HDV Sony PMW-200 in SM for TV event TORU SIMULATION in MPEG2

XF705 Camcorder Setup

FROST Ice Pack Case Correction

HRF Generic HRF Centrifuge Frozen Blood Collection Spin Conclude

HRF Generic MELFI Sample Insertion

HRF Generic HRF Centrifuge Frozen Blood Collection Conclude and Stow

Myotones Kit Gathering

Urine Transfer System Backup EDV Swap for Toilet 2 Week Test

Myotones Device Setup with EPM Laptop

JEM Common Gas Support Equipment (CGSE) Upper Ar Gas Supply Stop.

NOD3 20-port Network Switch Installation

PERSONAL CO2 MONITOR - IPAD DATA COLLECTION AND STOW

Myotones Measurements

Radio Frequency Identification Label Application

Myotones Ultrasound scan using ECHO Unit

On MCC-M Go Deactivate camcorder, TV System monitoring equipment

Echo Unit Stowage

Toilet System Pretreat Dose Check

Crew Discretionary Event

Health Maintenance System (HMS) Profile of Mood States (POMS) Questionnaire

On-orbit Hearing Assessment (OOHA) with Kuduwave Software Setup and Test - Crew Medical Officer (CMO)

Adjustment and testing of Kuduwave software for onboard hearing assessment (OOHA)

NORS Recharge Tank Bag Relocate

Extravehicular Activity Battery Installation

EVA Battery Operations Terminal Charge Init

Dragon Prepack

In-Flight Maintenance Battery Stow

Environmental Health System (EHS) Total Organic Carbon Analyzer (TOCA) Water Recovery System (WRS) Sample Analysis

Public Affairs Office (PAO) Config JEM Setup

PAO Preparation

Public Affairs Office (PAO) Event in High Definition (HD) - JEM

Dragon Prepack

Public Affairs Office (PAO) Social Media Event

SSC (Station Support Computer) 7 (in airlock). Connect to Wired

Extravehicular Activity (EVA) Airlock Unstow

Crew Departure Preparations for Return to Earth

Long-duration Crew Compensation

Node 3 Toilet Leak Inspection

Crew Dragon Hand Held Gas Detector Battery Swap

Toilet System Weekly Questionnaire

Toilet System Daily Questionnaire

Echo Unit Setup for Myotones experiment

Environmental Health System (EHS) Total Organic Carbon Analyzer (TOCA) Sample Data Record

In Flight Maintenance (IFM) Waste and Hygiene Compartment (WHC) Urine Receptacle (UR) and Insert Filter (IF) Remove and Replace

Myotones Device Data Transfer

Myotones Device Charging using Multi-Port USB Charger

Echo Unit Stowage

Crew Dragon Hand Held Gas Detector Calibration

Deck 1 and 2 cargo restore

Myotones Device Stowage after charging

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Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance Files Suit Over Discrimination at University of Houston-Clear Lake

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance

Oct. 26, 2021

LAFAYETTE, Ind., Oct. 26, 2021 /Standard Newswire/ -- Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance files suit over discrimination at University of Houston-Clear Lake.

ADF represents Ratio Christi after university denied the group recognition based on its views.

University of Houston-Clear Lake excluded Ratio Christi because it requires its leaders to agree with its values and mission. Other organizations have leadership requirements but are recognized by the university. But when Ratio Christi applied for recognition as a registered student organization, the university rejected the application and revoked its invitation to the student organization fair because Ratio Christi's constitution requires its leaders to be Christians--not members of another faith or of no faith.

"College should be a time when students learn firsthand how the Constitution protects their right to express their opinion, as well as the opinions and views of those with whom they disagree, but that's not what's happening at the University of HoustonClear Lake," said ADF Legal Counsel Caleb Dalton. "Instead, the university singled out Ratio Christi and its members because of their Christian beliefs, denying them recognition and equal treatment among their peer groups. It's natural and expected that a Christian organization would require its leaders to be Christian; the university allows other organizations to have similar, commonsense leadership requirements. What we see here is university officials blatantly discriminating against Ratio Christi and banishing them from a fair, free exchange of ideas specifically because of their religious beliefs."

Unlike other groups at the university, the students of Ratio Christi cannot reserve space, invite speakers, or access the pool of funds they paid into that is reserved for student organizations, speakers, and events because the university has excluded Ratio Christi from Registered Student Organization status.

Dr. Corey Miller is President/CEO of Ratio Christi (RC), a Christian student ministry with chapters at many colleges and universities. RC exists to teach students how to explain and defend the Christian faith through history, science, and philosophy. Although the chapters allow access to all students, numerous schools have attempted to deny their chapter members the right to choose leaders in accordance with RC's Christian beliefs. Thus, protecting free speech and religious freedom on campus is vital to Ratio Christi.

Dr. Miller says, "It is astounding that so many universities fail to see their blatant discrimination in their unequal treatment of campus organizations. Universities have no right telling such organizations what their leaders can and cannot believe. For the pursuit of truth, universities should embrace rather than cancel viewpoint diversity."

ADF attorneys filed Ratio Christi at the University of HoustonClear Lake v. Khator in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Murphy Klasing of Weycer, Kaplan, Pulaski & Zuber, P.C. in Houston, one of nearly 3,500 attorneys allied with ADF, is serving as local counsel. Media representatives interested in the case may contact ADF Media Relations at (480) 444-0020 or media@adflegal.org. If interested in interviewing Dr. Corey Miller about Ratio Christi's ministry, reach him at 704-989-2752 or email info@ratiochristi.org.

SOURCE Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance

CONTACT: Dr. Corey Miller, 704-989-2752, info@ratiochristi.org

Related Links

https://ratiochristi.org
By Azernews





By Ayya Lmahamad

Azerbaijani Economy Minister Mikayil Jabbarov has said that the country's business and investment climate is constantly improving.

He made the remarks while speaking at the online panel session roundtable on sustainable investments at the 7th World Investment Forum.

Jabbarov added that the legislation, business registration, tax and customs systems are being improved.

The minister expressed confidence that the forum will contribute to the steps taken to improve the investment climate, and informed about the priorities of the country's investment policy.

He noted that the restoration of the countrys liberated territories created new challenges and realities for development and increased the investment attractiveness of the country's economy.

Speaking about the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the national economy, Jabbarov noted the relevant support measures from the Azerbaijani government, as well as priorities for the countrys socio-economic development until 2030.

Moreover, Jabbarov emphasized that attracting local and foreign investment, sustainable development of the non-oil sector are of particular importance to support a comprehensive recovery of the country's economy in the post-pandemic period. In this regard, he noted that industrial zones, the Alat FEZ, are favorable mechanisms for revitalizing investment activity.

The minister added that the Azerbaijan Center of the Network of Centers of the Fourth Industrial Revolution of the World Economic Forum, which started operating on April 1, 2021, has contributed to the development of the digital ecosystem in the country.

He underlined that the Fourth Industrial Revolution is an important platform for developing a green economy and attracting investments, giving impetus to the rapid implementation and application of technologies.

The forum was attended by the representatives of Turkey, Russia, China, Germany, Great Britain, Korea, Mexico, Thailand, Egypt and other countries. The participants discussed priorities of economy, industry, trade and investment in the formation of national and international investment policy for the coming years. In addition, speeches on accelerating investment in key sectors for sustainable recovery were heard and discussed.
By Trend

A delegation of representatives of small and medium businesses (SMEs) of Russias Yaroslav region has arrived in Azerbaijan, Ruslan Mirsayapov, Trade Representative of Russia in Azerbaijan told Trend.

According to him, as part of the business mission, the heads of seven companies of the Yaroslav region will hold business meetings with potential partners.

These companies plan to find partners in Azerbaijan to promote tanks for storage and transportation of liquid carbon dioxide, as well as to promote the sale of food and drinks, spare parts for vehicles in the local market, Mirsayapov said.

The Russian delegation also plans to discuss the supply of equipment for the construction industry to Azerbaijan, the trade representative said.

The delegation also included representatives of the company, who intend to establish cooperation in the supply of plywood of various brands and spherical tents for glamping [a type of camping] to Azerbaijan, Mirsayapov said.

The visit of the Russian delegation to Baku will last until October 28.
By Azernews





By Laman Ismayilova

Azerbaijani tar musician Humay Gadimova has filmed a music video in liberated Gubadli region.

The music video features a music piece "Separation" composed by People's Artist Emin Sabitoglu, Trend Life reported.

The musical composition personifies the end of separation and return of Gubadli to Azerbaijan.

October 25, 2020, Gubadli was liberated from almost 30 years of Armenian occupation. The region of Azerbaijan was occupied by the Armenian Armed Forces on August 31, 1993.

During the occupation, the Armenians destroyed religious, historical, cultural monuments and cemeteries in Gubadli. The invaders also committed terror against the region`s rich nature. Forests were cut down and burned there, rare species of trees and plants were destroyed.
By Azernews





By Laman Ismayilova

Azerbaijani artists have presented their art works in Art Shopping at Carrousel du Louvre.

Rovshan Nur, Sahib Asadli, Leyla Aliyeva, Farida Musaeva, Nihad Aliyev, Fidan Safarova, Zahra Gafarova, Zahra Mammadzadeh, Arzu Yusifova, Ailin Safarova (Azerbaijan), K. Muzaffer Gencher (Turkey) and Anael Sunny (France), Abdelkrim Benbelkasem (Algeria), Tamara Mindiashvili Adamia (Georgia) displayed their mastepieces at ASMAR Art pavilion.

The exhibition brought together talented artists from Azerbaijan, France, Algeria, Turkey, Georgia and other countries.

ASMAR Art stand aroused great interest among the exhibition visitors.

"The guests were delighted with the color scheme. , Urban motifs painted in the impressionistic manner by the Azerbaijani artist Rovshan Nur charmed the guests of the vernissage. Moreover, the exhibition visitors also joined art discussions with the artists," said Honored Artist Asmar Narimanbayova.

Asmar Narimanbayova was born in a family of eminent artists. Her father Togrul Narimanbayov, was world-famous Azerbaijani artist, while her mother Elmira Huseynova was a sculptor.

Asmar grew up in the atmosphere of love to art, music and literature. She is an artist full of light, wide and enthusiastic soul. While creating works in different styles starting from fauvism to impressionism, then from postimpressionism to cubism and expressionism, the artist has found her individual creative manner of the letter, the original color sensation acting as a composition dominant. She has been characterized for her bold and engaging style.

Colors in her artworks fill the form with dynamics and saturate her canvas with the strong energy. Narimanbayovas works are displayed in exhibitions, international festivals and symposiums all over the world.
By Azernews





By Vafa Ismayilova

On September 27, 2020, in response to a large-scale provocation of the Armenian armed forces along the frontline, the Azerbaijani army launched a counter-offensive operation, later called the "Iron Fist".

The 44-day war put an end to nearly 30 years of occupation, ensured the liberation of Azerbaijan's lands and the restoration of the country's territorial integrity.

Chronicle of 44-day Second Karabakh War: October 26, 2021

- President Ilham Aliyev addressed the nation.

- In his address to the nation, President Ilham Aliyev announced the names of the liberated villages of Zangilan, Gubadli and Jabrayil.

- First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva shared a post on her Instagram account about the liberation of several villages in Zangilan, Jabrayil, Gubadli regions and Gubadli city.

- President Aliyev was interviewed by the Italian Rai-1 TV channel.

- The Armenian armed forces shelled Azerbaijani units using artillery.

- Azerbaijans Tovuz, Gadabay and Dashkasan regions were shelled from Armenia.

- Armenia continued to violate the ceasefire.

- Aghjabadi region and Tartar city were subjected to shelling.

- An Armenian drone was destroyed.

- The Armenian armed forces shelled Tartar with Smerch missiles.

- A video of the liberated villages of Padar and Khanlig in Gubadli region was released.

- A video of the liberated city of Gubadli was released.

A Moscow-brokered ceasefire deal that Baku and Yerevan signed on November 10, 2020, brought an end to six weeks of fighting between Armenia and Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani army declared a victory against the Armenian troops. The signed agreement obliged Armenia to withdraw its troops from the Azerbaijani lands that it has occupied since the early 1990s.

The peace agreement stipulated the return of Azerbaijan's Armenian-occupied Kalbajar, Aghdam and Lachin regions and urged Armenia to withdraw its troops from the Azerbaijani lands that it has occupied since the early 1990s. Before the signing of the deal, the Azerbaijani army had liberated around 300 villages, settlements, city centres, and historic Shusha city.
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev was interviewed by the Italian Rai 1 TV channel on October 26, 2020.

Trend presents the interview.

- Mr. President, good afternoon. Please tell us if this new truce, this new ceasefire will hold. If I am not mistaken, this is the third ceasefire.

- Everything will depend on how Armenia behaves because the first two ceasefires were disrupted by Armenia. After the first ceasefire, which was declared for humanitarian considerations, Armenia violated the ceasefire within 24 hours and barbarically launched a ballistic missile at the city of Ganja at night. As a result of the first shelling, 10 people were killed and many were wounded. Then they hit Ganja again, and also at night. There were even more victims. So we had to answer. As for the second truce, we have a chronology of Armenia's violations of the ceasefire. They violated it literally two minutes after the appointed hour of the truce. Today, at 8 o'clock, a new truce came into force. Now it is 10 o'clock in the morning in Baku. At about 3-4 minutes after the ceasefire entered into force at 8 o'clock, several shells were fired at the city of Tartar again. We are not reacting to this. We hope this was an accident, but if this continues, we will be forced to respond adequately.

- Mr. President, what actually caused the outbreak of hostilities at the end of September? Why did this happen?

- There was a series of events of political and military nature. Armenia's main goal was to disrupt the process of negotiations in every possible way. The new government of Armenia has repeatedly stated that the fundamental principles are unacceptable for it, that it is not going to return a single centimeter of the occupied territories, which contradicts the fundamental principles. The prime minister stated that we should negotiate not with Armenia but with the so-called leaders of Nagorno-Karabakh, which is unacceptable both for us and for the OSCE Minsk Group. He also stated that 'Karabakh is Armenia, full stop', thereby completely undermining the negotiations. In the past year, there were practically no negotiations, and in order to shift the blame on us, Armenia made three sabotage attempts  in July on the border, in August when they sent a sabotage group, and in September when they shelled our cities. They probably thought that we would show restraint again, but that did not happen. We answered them in a manner that they are now regretting it.

- On what conditions will you agree to stop the hostilities then? You have repeatedly spoken about the need for a constructive approach on the part of Armenia. What should a constructive approach be like?

- A constructive approach should be that they must publicly declare, through the prime minister, that they accept the fundamental principles. The fundamental principles envisage the return of seven districts located around the Nagorno-Karabakh autonomous region to Azerbaijan and the return of Azerbaijani refugees to the territory of Nagorno-Karabakh, including the ancient Azerbaijani city of Shusha. These approaches are, in principle, based on four UN Security Council resolutions, which require practically the same. But when the Armenian prime minister says that not a single centimeter of land will be given to us, when the Armenian defense minister says that Armenia will start a new war for new territories and when aggression is carried out against us, this is not a constructive approach, of course. He must say that yes, the occupied territories will be returned to Azerbaijan, that the Azerbaijanis will return to Nagorno-Karabakh, including Shusha, and then, of course, we will come to an agreement very quickly.

-Mr. President, there is one very controversial issue. Some countries, not only Armenia, but also France, have somehow accused you and Turkey of sending thousands of mercenaries, jihadists from Syria to Karabakh via Turkey. How will you respond to such accusations, and how will you respond to the accusations that speak of the presence of Turkish troops and Turkish military aircraft on the territory of Azerbaijan?

- I have already answered this question many times and I will answer it again. First, such unfounded accusations were brought against us by only two countries  France and Russia. France said that through the President, Russia through the head of the Foreign Intelligence Service. These charges were brought against us immediately after the outbreak of hostilities. Although almost a month has already passed, not a single piece of evidence, no proof was provided to us. In fact, I will say this for the first time  I asked the French side for the heads of relevant agencies to meet, discuss the issue and provide us with evidence. Nothing was presented to us. Therefore, these are all insinuations. All this is an attempt to cast a shadow on Azerbaijan. I regret that such unfounded accusations come from the co-chair countries, which are supposed to be objective. After all, we do not talk every day about how many weapons are supplied from Russia to Armenia. We do not talk about the fact that Armenia would not have lasted a day in the occupied territories without external assistance. Political support, military support, moral support  all this comes from countries that are supposed to stay neutral. Therefore, we strongly reject these insinuations. It is not necessary. We have 100,000 soldiers of the regular army. If necessary, we will announce overall mobilization, which, by the way, we have not done unlike Armenia. Therefore, this is all lies and slander. As for the participation of Turkish troops in operations, this is also a lie. There is not a single piece of evidence. The fact that Turkish F-16s are on the territory of Azerbaijan was a result of our joint military exercises on the eve of the conflict. We do not talk about how many Russian MIG-29s and Su-30s are on the territory of Armenia. We do not talk about the fact that 5,000 Russian troops are located at the base in Armenia in Gumru and, according to our data, there are periodical supplies of the Armenian armed forces from there. These are facts, in contrast to what is being said about us. Therefore, I suggest that those who want to accuse us first deal with themselves and then make such hasty conclusions based on false information.

- Mr. President, my last question more or less also concerns our country, Italy. You probably know that in Europe there are many successful examples of a peaceful settlement of territorial disputes or separatism. We have one of such examples in Italy. It is Alto Adige/Sudtirol. Don't you think that Italy could help you with its experience in resolving the status of Karabakh? Moreover, Italy has very good, close and strong political and cultural relations with you and also with Armenia.

- Yes, I believe that Italy can play a very important role in the settlement of the conflict. I must say that when the Minsk Group was formed, a very long time ago, almost 30 years ago, it was the Italian representative, the Italian diplomat who was the leader of this Minsk Group. That was before the institution of co-chairs was established. After the institution of the co-chairs was created, the Minsk Group as a group of countries did not produce any results because the co-chairs took this activity into their monopoly. We know what this has led to. For 28 years, there has been no progress, no results, only promises, only bureaucratic procedures. In essence, it seems to us today that the activities of the co-chairs were aimed at freezing the conflict, not at resolving it. As for the model that exists in Italy, we have studied it. We also studied the model of the Aland Islands and other successful autonomy experiences. Azerbaijan, unlike Armenia, is a multiethnic state. In Armenia, as you probably know, 99 percent of the population are Armenians. Therefore, this is a very positive experience of self-government which could be applied in our case. In fact, as far as I know, such proposals were made in the mid-1990s. Even groups of representatives of non-governmental organizations and political scientists have visited your country, the region you are talking about, and the Aland Islands. But Armenia has always categorically rejected this. They believed that they would be able to occupy our territories forever relying on military, political and economic support from leading countries of the world, but they made a gross miscalculation. We are proving our case on the battlefield today. We are implementing UN Security Council resolutions and are restoring international law.

- Mr. President, the very last question: at what level will we be in this conflict in one year? Or will it already be resolved by then?

- You know, I communicate with representatives of foreign media almost every day during this month, and in my addresses to the Azerbaijani people I always clearly state our position. We see the future of the Karabakh region  not only the upper part of it but also the plain because Karabakh is a large part of Azerbaijan  as a prosperous and peaceful territory where Azerbaijanis, who must return there, and the Armenians who now live there will live in peace. Our position is this. I believe that this can be achieved with mutual goodwill of the parties. After all, thousands of Armenians live in Baku and other cities of Azerbaijan today. The Azerbaijanis and Armenians have joint businesses in Russia and Georgia. There are mixed families. Therefore, I think that reconciliation is possible. The Armenian leadership should simply abandon its aggressive policy. And if this happens, with our investments and our experience of rebuilding the country, we can turn this region into one of the most prosperous regions in the world. But for this to happen, the consequences of the war must be eliminated. The occupation must be eliminated, the Azerbaijanis must return to the lands where they have lived for centuries, and live in harmony with the Armenian population. It will not be easy and it will take time. But we know how countries were reconciled after World War II, when European countries were at war  the current neighbors, and many people were killed. But this should not sit in the memory all the time and produce hatred, which is what Armenian ideologists are doing today. Goodwill must be shown. If that happens, what I am saying will happen. If not, we will return these lands anyway. And the current state of affairs on the battlefield is showing that. We will return them at any cost. Either peacefully or war, but we will return them. Therefore, I think the Armenian leadership should seriously think about it and take the right step.

- Thank you very much, Mr. President, and as they say in Italian, Bono Fortuno!

- Thank you, all the best to you too. Thank you!

- Goodbye!

- Goodbye!
President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev has addressed the nation on October 26, 2020.

Trend presents the interview.

Address of President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev

- Dear fellow compatriots!

The second Karabakh war has been going on for about a month. This war is a patriotic war for our people. We are liberating our homeland from occupiers. During this time, the glorious Azerbaijani Army has liberated many settlements from the enemy. We are restoring historical justice on the battlefield because Nagorno-Karabakh is ancient and historical land of Azerbaijan. The Azerbaijani people have lived and built on these lands for centuries. We know the history of Karabakh perfectly well. A great deal of work has been done in recent years to convey this history to the world community. In general, the world did not have much of an idea about Azerbaijan in the early 1990s. Armenian lobbying organizations operating in many countries were able to create a distorted image in the world, in international public opinion by circulating false information both about the history of the region and the history of the conflict. This is why sanctions were imposed on us even though it was our lands that were occupied, and these sanctions are still in force. In the early stages of our independence, the US Congress imposed sanctions on Azerbaijan, claiming that Azerbaijan is engaged in aggression against Armenia, and these sanctions are still in force. Can you imagine that? At that time, Azerbaijani diplomacy could not counter Armenian lies with any arguments. As a result of consistent work in recent years, we have informed the world community about the history of Karabakh, the history of the conflict, and all this work helps us today. The world already has a more objective view on this issue, a more objective vision. It is thanks to our tireless efforts that we have been able to achieve this. I am absolutely right when I say that we are restoring historical justice. I was able to prove to the whole world during the live debates at the Munich Security Conference that this is our historical land. I provided information about the Kurakchay peace treaty signed at the beginning of the 19th century. There was no information about this treaty in the world at all. Unfortunately, there was no extensive information about the Kurakchay treaty in Azerbaijan either, The Kurakchay peace agreement was signed by the Khan of Karabakh and Shusha, Ibrahimkhalil khan, on the other side a general of Tsarist Russia. This agreement is available on the Internet and everyone can see it. I am sure that after my words, a large international audience keenly following the current situation on the battlefield will go to these sites and see that there is not a word about the Armenian people in that agreement. The Armenian people were not here at that time. The Armenian people were brought to our ancestral lands after the Kurakchay, Gulustan and Turkmenchay peace treaties. They were deliberately brought and placed in Karabakh, one of the most fascinating corners of our country, and conditions were created for them. The objective of this was obvious  to change the religious composition in the new lands of the empire, to expel Muslims from their ancestral lands, drive them away and create a new reality. Unfortunately, they achieved this goal.

After that, the Armenian population was brought en masse from neighboring countries, settled in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, in the ancestral lands of the Azerbaijanis, and demonstrating their typical character, gradually began to take possession of all our lands. After the Bolshevik revolution in the early 20th century, there was a great danger that the Bolshevik government would hand over Nagorno-Karabakh to Armenia. The Caucasus Bureau has protocols dated July 1921. It is enough to look at the protocols of the Caucasus Bureau to see that there was such a threat. But I think that due to the efforts of Nariman Narimanov and others who correctly assessed the reality, they could not achieve this goal. The protocols of the Caucasus Bureau state that Nagorno-Karabakh should be kept as part of Azerbaijan. During all these years, fake Armenian scholars and patrons have been trying to prove that Stalin separated Nagorno-Karabakh from Armenia and gave it to Azerbaijan. This is a lie! Open and look at the protocol of the Caucasus Bureau, which says that Nagorno-Karabakh should be kept as part of Azerbaijan! This once again confirms that this is our land. Unfortunately, after that, the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region was established, and the region was given a special status. But I must also say that this was not a republic, but a region. There was a lower level of self-government. It is enough to look at the history to see that the Armenians living there had great rights and opportunities.

In Soviet times, a few years before the conflict, separatist tendencies were widespread. However, there was no reason for that. Of the nine members of the bureau, the governing body of the Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region, eight were Armenians and one was Azerbaijani, and he was the first secretary of the Communist Party of Shusha district. The first secretary, the head of the government, the chairman of the parliament of Nagorno-Karabakh were Armenians. What did they want? Azerbaijan invested so much in that region, built a railway there in the 1970s, the Sarsang water reservoir, the Madagiz water reservoir  I have restored its name  the Sugovushan water reservoir were built. All these investments were made at the expense of the state budget of Azerbaijan. however, the Armenians were ungrateful, took advantage of the situation and of the presence of anti-Azerbaijani leadership in Moscow, and separatist tendencies emerged in the region. What did they do prior to that? The Armenians had been making preparations for that. Heydar Aliyev was the target of these preparations. They understood perfectly well that the presence of Heydar Aliyev, his great authority in the Soviet leadership ruined their plans. Therefore, unfortunately, national traitors from Armenia and other places, from Azerbaijan were sending numerous anonymous letters to Moscow and carrying out a smear campaign in order to eliminate the Heydar Aliyev factor. Less than two weeks after Heydar Aliyev had resigned from all posts, Armenian separatists rose up and demanded that Nagorno-Karabakh be separated from Azerbaijan and annexed to Armenia. This was when the troubles of our people began. An illegal special committee was set up in Nagorno-Karabakh and an ardent pro-Armenian man was appointed its head. This, in fact, laid the groundwork for the secession of Nagorno-Karabakh from Azerbaijan. Unfortunately, the then leaders of Azerbaijan simply observed all these dangerous events. They could not raise their voice, they did not have the courage, just kept their head down and did what they were told to do from Moscow. At that time, the people leading Azerbaijan did not have a gram of Azerbaijani blood. Although they were considered Azerbaijanis, they did not have a single gram of national spirit and were cosmopolitan people. They could not even speak the Azerbaijani language properly. This is the history of Nagorno-Karabakh. After that, large-scale military operations were launched against Azerbaijan and our lands were occupied.

The loss of Shusha and Lachin in May 1992 and the occupation of Kalbajar in April 1993 created a geographical link between Nagorno-Karabakh and Armenia. There was no such connection before. The Nagorno-Karabakh Autonomous Region had no border with the Republic of Armenia.

Those tragic events somewhat created a new reality. After that, the issue was taken over by international mediators and the Minsk Group was established in 1992. The activities of the Minsk Group are obvious. After some time, the co-chairs of the Minsk Group concentrated almost all power in their hands and virtually monopolized the issue. In fact, the Minsk Group as a group was paralyzed and the three co-chair countries began to deal with this issue. But was there a result of that? There was not! There was no result for us, but there was one for Armenia. Armenia wanted the negotiations to last forever, Armenia wanted to deceive us forever, this issue to remain in a frozen state, and our lands to stay under occupation forever. But what did the Minsk Group do? Was it able to put pressure on the occupier? No! Did it want to put pressure on it? No! I have repeatedly raised the issue with them: if you want to see a solution, impose sanctions on Armenia. All this is in your hands. You are permanent members of the UN Security Council and can resolve any issue. In particular, officials of these countries say that they agree on this issue. This is also an interesting issue. How is it possible that in all other matters  nuclear weapons, the situation in the Middle East, the situation in Asia, the situation in Europe  their interests are completely different? What other issue do their interests overlap on? None! Only in the issue of Nagorno-Karabakh. Why? Everyone understands that. This frozen state, of course, was in everyone's interests except ours  first of all, in Armenia's interests.

Armenia is conducting illegal settlement on these lands. Has anyone said a word? No! This crime, this international crime runs counter to the Geneva Conventions. Does anyone ask them why they are conducting illegal settlement? And even demonstrate it. You transfer and place Armenians from Arab countries in our cities, including Shusha. Nobody says a word. What does this mean? It means go on, bring them here and settle as many as you want, Armenianize these lands and erase the cultural heritage of Azerbaijan. That was the message. Didn't these three countries have the opportunity to show the aggressor its place? They didn't want to. This reality suited them.

Therefore, it is impossible to assess the activities of the Minsk Group otherwise. We were being pushed to accept this situation, as it were. We were being told that new realities had emerged and that we must reckon with them. We have created a new reality. Everyone has to reckon with the new reality now. But what do we see? Notice what is happening when we began to liberate our lands from the occupiers. Look at the strong pressure being put on Azerbaijan from all sides. They have started running around. What happened? For 28 years, this issue dragged on and they pretended to be addressing it. They kept coming and going, there were endless meetings and negotiations. We are fed up with these negotiations. How long can one negotiate with the enemy? In addition, the enemy becomes impudent, and they tell us, no, there is no military option and the issue must be resolved only peacefully. Who says there isn't? Isn't this a military solution now? What are we doing? We are single-handedly implementing UN Security Council resolutions although this is the responsibility of the UN Security Council. We are doing this alone. We have created a new reality. Reckon with it! But what do we see? There is a meeting here, a meeting there. What about the ceasefire? Who has violated the ceasefire? This means that all their activities are now aimed at saving Armenia, an aggressor that committed the Khojaly genocide, attacked Ganja with ballistic missiles from the territory of Armenia. This is their activity.

As far as the ceasefire is concerned, the first time the ceasefire entered into force on 10 October. My position was that this should be of a humanitarian nature, and we agreed to this in order to exchange the bodies of the dead, hostages and prisoners. However, less than a day later, Armenia flagrantly and insidiously violated the ceasefire by bombing Ganja at night. Then, on 17 October, a new ceasefire was declared. And again, Armenia violated it two minutes later. This morning, at 8 o'clock, a new proposal came in. But when I inquired about at 9 o'clock in the morning, Armenia violated the ceasefire a few minutes later by firing on Tartar district again. However, I have instructed the Azerbaijani army again to show restraint for the time being and not to succumb to provocations. My position is known to my people. This issue must be resolved either by military or by peaceful means. I suggested: if you want a peaceful solution, well, we will stop. But we must be told immediately that Armenia is leaving our lands. A timetable should be provided  after how many days they would leave a particular district, after how many days they would leave the next district and after how many days they would leave other districts. A timetable should be provided. Has Armenia provided this timetable? It has not. This being the case, if the ceasefire continues and the issue remains frozen again, this cannot suit us. This is the first thing.

Secondly, we have accurate information that Armenia is already on its knees on the battlefield and simply wants to take advantage of the ceasefire to mobilize its resources again, wants to re-arm and pursue a new policy of aggression against us. There is such information and, unfortunately, over the past month, weapons, various types of weapons have been supplied to Armenia in large quantities. We have all the lists. Some of them have been published in our media. There is a whole list of when and what plane arrived, where it arrived, what it brought, how it was offloaded and where the cargo was sent? Then why are those interested in a ceasefire sending weapons to Armenia? After all, Armenia is already on its knees. We have already hit it on the head so that it can hardly recover. The prime minister of Armenia, who danced in a drunken state on Jidirduzu and behaved like a great commander, now falls at everyone's feet asking for help, begging for assistance, humiliating himself and humiliating his people. Just don't give them weapons and it will be over. Don't give them weapons. Who gives anything to us? Nobody! Don't give them weapons. If you want this to end, don't give them weapons. He will surely come round in a couple of days. On the one hand, there is talk of a ceasefire, but on the other, weapons are being sent to them. What is this? Are we supposed to be silent about this?

The people of Azerbaijan should know everything. For 17 years in my capacity as President, I have always told the truth to the Azerbaijani people  always. I regularly report to the people on all the issues. And I am doing that to this day. This may not be complete information because there are certain diplomatic rules. However, whatever can be said, I say to the Azerbaijani people and the whole world. If you want to save Armenia, tell it to leave our lands, get away immediately! Let this jester, who danced in Shusha, on Jidirduzu, in a drunken state declare that he is leaving. Calling world leaders five or six times a day will not solve the problem. Our position remains unchanged, we are defending the truth and justice.

I would like to touch upon another issue. The legal framework for the settlement of the conflict is quite broad. We have expanded this framework. Today, there are not only UN Security Council resolutions, but also other documents. The UN General Assembly has adopted a resolution, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the European Parliament and other organizations. The document we have initialed with the European Union contains a special provision on the sovereignty of our country, the inviolability of our borders and territorial integrity. In other words, it is a legal framework that allows us the opportunity to teach the enemy a lesson on the battlefield, to drive them away, to remove them from our lands. But look at what is going on lately? The Minsk Group co-chairing countries have convened a meeting of the UN Security Council. They have done it once before. Apparently, the document adopted there did not satisfy them. This time, a few days ago, we heard about the appearance of a new document. We immediately took action and prevented the adoption of this document even though the three co-chair countries exerted great pressure on other members of the UN Security Council.

What was the purpose of this? The goal is very clear  to overshadow the resolutions adopted in 1993 demanding the withdrawal of the Armenian armed forces from our lands, to leave them in the past so that they lose their power and significance. This was the goal. How fair is this? We saw further attempts to provide support to the occupier. What is the result? It did not pass. How? The member countries of the Non-Aligned Movement stood up like real men and did not allow this to happen, they supported us  I say thank you to them. And this happened despite the fact that they came under pressure and may have even been threatened. But they stood up like men for us just as we stand up for them. This shows that nothing will work. My dear brother, the President of the Republic of Turkey has repeatedly said that the world is bigger than five countries. And he is absolutely right. This vote proved it. They joined their forces and put forward another document that meets the interests of Armenia, but it did not work out.

Because justice prevailed. No matter how hard they tried, justice prevailed. Justice and international law are on our side. Therefore, we will continue to go our own way. If they want a ceasefire, then let them tell the occupying state to go away, to leave our lands. Otherwise, we will go to the end, all the way. And we will continue to drive the enemy away, as we have been doing. They are already running away from us and we will continue to chase them. Because we are right and we are strong.

As I have been saying for the past few years, the world is not the same any longer. The force factor comes to the fore and this was not done by us. Take a look  do large states reckon with international law today? No! Do they reckon with the UN Security Council? No! Everyone does what they want in their places, one enters there, another one enters there, the third one divides some territories. There is no semblance of international law. So why should we defend it? We are defending it anyway and are not taking steps outside the law. We are not entering the territory of Armenia, we are restoring the territories recognized by the international community. If the permanent members of the UN Security Council, the co-chairs of the Minsk Group could not do this, then let them step aside and not interfere. Unlike Armenia, we do not ask anyone for help. Let them not interfere and test the patience of the Azerbaijani people. This war will end tomorrow and we will achieve our goal. What will our relationship be like? Will the Azerbaijani people forget this injustice? They will not. Let them give this a thought. Today, Azerbaijan is not a state the interests of which can be ignored. No! The day will come when they will come here with requests and proposals, including those on cooperation. How will they look in our eyes? They have mobilized all their forces against us today. I have been putting up with this for a month, a whole month. I was silent about it, but we are fed up. This is the first thing.

Second, the mediator must be neutral. If it is not impartial, then it should give up its candidacy. If a mediator is not neutral, then it cannot be a mediator. The mediating countries should now come up with new functions for themselves. What will they do? They can no longer talk about the liberation of five districts. Where are these five districts now? Four of them are already with us. This question is already in the past, it is over. We have taken them back ourselves  Fuzuli, Zangilan, Jabrayil, Gubadli. Most of these districts are with us. We also have a part of the former Hadrut and currently Khojavand district. So let them think.

We are not against negotiations. As a result of yesterday's talks in the United States, the decision was made to hold a meeting between the foreign ministers of Azerbaijan and Armenia in Geneva in a few days. I don't mind that, let them meet. Over the course of these 28 years, there have been so many useless meetings, so there is no difference. I do not mean to say that I regard this meeting as useless. No. We want it to make sense. And this should speed up the settlement of the conflict. The patrons of Armenia, I appeal to you: if you want to save this fake state, tell it to get out. One word of yours is enough for it to get out  just one word. If Armenia is not provided with financial, economic, military and political support, will it be able to stand on its feet? No! I will provide the Azerbaijani people with some data on their equipment we have destroyed. Everyone can count this, go online, see the cost of this equipment and ask a question. Where does this poor and impoverished country get all this? Where does this money come from in a country that is mired in problems? We have already destroyed so much of their equipment and they are still bringing more. Never mind, let them bring it, they know better.

This is our position at this stage, and we are ready to resolve this issue by military-political means. But it must be resolved. The ceasefire has been declared, alright, let there be a ceasefire. Armenia has violated it, we are recording every violation, every single one. I have given the instruction to record every violation. This information is immediately sent to the OSCE representative and other countries interested in the ceasefire, so that they can see how many times the Armenians have violated it. We have all the data. A military-political solution should resolve the issue of restoring the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan.

As for the future of the Armenians who were settled on our ancestral lands 200 years ago, I have said that they are our citizens too. They must also get rid of this junta. If they cannot save themselves, we will help them. Didn't the new government of Armenia represented by Pashinyan say that those who governed Armenia are criminals? I was saying exactly the same. What happens if those who governed the country before Pashinyan for 20 years were criminals? What is this country then? It is a criminal country. The two ex-presidents also headed the junta in Karabakh and then led Armenia. A criminal case has been opened against both. They are criminals who sucked the blood of the Armenians living in Karabakh. Where did they get so much property, wealth and fortune? Where? They got it by sucking the blood of the Armenian people. So I repeat: the people living in Nagorno-Karabakh are our citizens. The Azerbaijani people are tolerant. These people are not to blame. Whoever is to blame is being brought to account, and I said that the blood of the Azerbaijani people would not remain unavenged. The criminals who committed the Khojaly genocide have already been destroyed in the battles that have lasted for a month. Justice has prevailed. Therefore, I want to reiterate my position. We will definitely return to these lands by military-political means. The military stage may end today. We will resolve the issue politically. Azerbaijanis will return to Shusha, Azerbaijanis will return to Khankandi. They will return to all other places where they used to live. Conditions will be created for the Armenian population. We must gradually learn to live together, both them and us. I see it this way, and my approach is based both on the norms of morality and on the norms of international law. Armenia wants to drive us out of there, then to carry out ethnic cleansing, to Armenianize our sites, to settle Armenians from abroad. Pashinyan, you wanted to build a road to Jabrayil? So? Where is this road? You wanted to build a parliament building in Shusha? So? It all went to hell.

I want to say again that no force can make us deviate from our path. Successes on the battlefield have created a new reality at the negotiating table.

Now I want to share some information with my dear people. I am presenting a list of the enemy's equipment and military booty we have destroyed and taken over since 27 September. So 252 tanks have been destroyed, 53 tanks have been taken as booty  in total Armenia has lost 305 tanks. But they still have more. Look how many tanks they had. Fifty infantry fighting vehicles have been destroyed, 29 have been taken as booty  a total of 79 units. Then, 251 guns of various calibers have been destroyed, 24 have been taken as booty  275 in total. Sixty-one mortars have been destroyed, 45 were taken as booty  106 in total. Fifty-three anti-tank weapons have been destroyed, 82 Grad installations have been destroyed. Two units of "Hurricane" multiple launch rocket system have been destroyed. One "TOS" unit has been destroyed, four anti-aircraft missile systems "TOR", about 40 "OSA" installations, four "KUB" complexes, one "KRUG", two "S-125" have been destroyed. Six S-300 launchers, one of the most expensive launchers, have been destroyed. One detection station and one locator. The price is well known. Everyone can count this. We have destroyed two "Elbrus" and one "Tochka-U" operational-tactical missile systems. Trucks  231 trucks have been destroyed, including 20 with ammunition, 173 trucks have been taken as booty. In total, we have deprived the enemy of 404 trucks.

Now I will ask the question again. I will keep asking this question every time. I will keep asking it until there is an answer. Where does this money come from? Let the pro-Armenian observers, mediators, political scientists tell where it comes from. We have money and everything is transparent. The people of Azerbaijan know how much money we have, the world knows, everyone knows. We are buying it with our own money. We don't depend on anyone. How did this bankrupt country buy this? Armenia's external debt is about $8 billion. Foreign exchange reserves amount to $1.5 billion. In fact, these are not free funds. These are bank reserves. They cannot use them. If they use it, then their so-called currency will fly somersaults. Who gave you so many weapons? Why doesn't anyone ask? During this month, I give interviews every day. They ask me what Turkish F-16s are doing in Azerbaijan. I am tired of answering. Open up satellite images, can't you see what they are doing? Go and see what F-16s are doing. Are they in the air or on the ground? Everyone knows that they are on the ground. They arrived for exercises and stayed behind when the war broke out. Our Turkish brothers left them here to give us moral support. But if we are attacked from outside, they will see these F-16s. There are only five or six planes left at the airport and they ask about it every time. I answer these questions. But ask Armenia too, ask those who give them weapons. Ask these questions  why are you giving Armenia weapons? Have they been paid for? Do the citizens of the countries producing these weapons know how much of their goods was lost in a matter of one month? Do they know how much weaponry we have destroyed? No journalist asks me this question. Isn't this interesting? It is interesting. Never mind. We are already accustomed to the fact that for all these years, slander, lies and fabrications against Azerbaijan have shown no sign of abating. Both foreign media and the Azerbaijani people see that I am answering all these questions and answering them properly. And I do not stoop to their level. Never! I answer them properly and they are silenced. They cannot answer. I say  go look in the mirror. Did you come here to blame us? They don't ask questions, they act like a prosecutor, accuse us. Who are you? I respect journalists a lot. Therefore, they take advantage of that. I speak to them in a calm manner. But they should know that I can talk to them in any form. This is a reality. This reality is against us. But we have changed this reality. These new lists show again that we have changed this reality.

Now, it is with great satisfaction and pride that I will bring to the attention of my people the list the Azerbaijani people are looking forward to. So I am informing my dear people of the list of settlements liberated yesterday. The following villages have been liberated in Zangilan district: First Alibayli, Second Alibayli, Raband, Yenikand. Liberated villages of Jabrayil district: Govshudlu, Sofulu, Dagh Mashanli, Kurdlar, Hovuslu, Chalabilar. The settlements of Gubadli district liberated yesterday: Padar, Afandilar, Yusifbayli, Chaytumas, Khanlig, Sariyatag, Mollaburkhan and the city of Gubadli!

I already shared this good news with the Azerbaijani people yesterday. I want to convey this joyful news to the entire Azerbaijani people again. It is a great honor for me to bring joyful news to the residents of Zangilan, Jabrayil and Gubadli districts who lived in these villages. True, there is nothing left of these villages. But never mind, we will restore them. Both the Azerbaijani people and the state have enough strength to do that. If only our lands were free. If only our flag was raised in all the liberated lands. We are liberating these lands at the cost of the life and blood of our soldiers and officers. We have asserted ourselves both on the battlefield and on the political plane, we have asserted ourselves in the world. We have asserted the Azerbaijani people as a proud people, as a brave people, as an invincible people. No pressure can affect us. No threat can turn us off our path because we are on a fair path, we are united like a fist. This unity is eternal and will be eternal!

Dear compatriots, I promised you on the first days of the war that we would drive the enemy away from our lands, drive them away to the end. Karabakh is ours! Karabakh is Azerbaijan!
By Azernews





By Laman Ismayilova

Azerbaijan State Russian Drama Theater has staged Nizami Ganjavi`s "Seven Beauties".

The play was staged by Lithuanian director Jonas Vaitkus and his production team. The premiere took place on December 7, 2012.

It is incredibly difficult to translate the philosophical thought of Nizami Ganjavi into the language of dramatic theatrical action. However, the theater team together with a Lithuanian production team coped with this task brilliantly.

The staged version of classic's poem as interpreted by a European director and the actors' play made a great impression on the audience.

After performance, the Culture Minister Anar Kerimov stressed that he had witnessed the work of real professionals in their field.

The Culture Minister praised the new look on Nizami Ganjavi`s philosophy. He stressed the importance of the poet`s legacy that has a great value.

The State Russian Drama Theater named after Samad Vurgun plays an important role in the cultural life of the country. Charismatic and extraordinary talented theater actors always surprise the audience with wonderful performances.

Many works of Russian literary figures such as Tolstoy, Pushkin, Chekov, Gogol, Lermontov, Mayakovsky, Lavrenyov, as well as Azerbaijani literary figures such as Jafar Jabbarli, Mirza Fatali Akhundov, Ali bay Huseynzade, Najaf bay Vazirov, Huseyn Javid, works of world classics such as Shakespeare, Schiller, Moliere, Dumas, Hugo, Balzac are staged in the theater.

The theater team pays special attention to young viewers, and plays a significant role in introducing theater art to children.

Nowadays, Azerbaijan State Russian Drama Theater is one of the most popular theaters in the country.
Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has signed a decree on measures to draw up a master plan for the city of Gubadli, located in the East Zangezur economic region.

According to the decree, 500,000 manats ($294 204) are initially allocated from the funds provided in the state budget of Azerbaijan for 2021 for the restoration of the liberated territories for the State Committee for Urban Planning and Architecture for the preparation of the master plan of the city of Gubadli, located in the East Zangezur economic region.

It is noted that the Ministry of Finance was instructed to provide funding in the amount specified in this order, and the Cabinet of Ministers was instructed to resolve other issues arising from this order.
By Trend

The ceremony of opening the course on "National Security" was held at the International Anti-Terrorism Training Center under the State Security Service of Azerbaijan on October 25, Trend reports citing the services website.

The course has been organized with the assistance of the Service of the Secretary of the Security Council of Azerbaijan.

The event was attended by Secretary of the Security Council of Azerbaijan Colonel General Ramil Usubov, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmat Hajiyev, Head of the State Security Service Colonel General Ali Naghiyev, senior officials of state bodies and a representative of the Secretary General of the National Security Council of Turkey.

Within the framework of the course, which will continue until October 29, lectures are scheduled to be delivered on various aspects of national security by 54 representatives of 32 government agencies, practical exercises, and panel discussions will be held.

The course is aimed at assessing the situation in the field of national security, threats in this area, improving the joint work of the relevant structures in ensuring national security, and exchanging experience between government organizations.

The Secretary of the Security Council Ramil Usubov expressed gratitude to the head of the State Security Service for the conditions created for the course, and to the assistant to the President of Azerbaijan for participation in the event.

According to Usubov, thanks to the successful foreign and domestic policy pursued by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev, Azerbaijan is known in the world as stable country, and this factor has created the basis for comprehensive development of all spheres in the country.

"Today, without the direct participation of Azerbaijan, its impossible to implement transport, logistics and large-scale international energy projects, and to make important political decisions. Recently, especially after the victory achieved in the 2020 second Karabakh war, some forces, carrying out their insidious plans, are trying once again violate stability in the region, and resort to various provocations," he pointed out.

Speaking about the joint effective struggle of the special services and law enforcement agencies against these threats, he stressed that the necessary measures are constantly being taken to strengthen the military potential of the state, to increase its defense capability.

Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan - Head of the Foreign Policy Department of the Presidential Administration Hikmat Hajiyev spoke about the reliable provision of national security, which is a priority issue for each state, and noted the importance of the National Security Concept prepared under the leadership of President Ilham Aliyev.

He noted that for about 30 years, the main factor directed against the security of the state was the aggressive policy of Armenia, however, Armenian fascism was destroyed thanks to the victory achieved by the Azerbaijani army in the second Karabakh war.

For about 30 years, the main factor directed against the security of Azerbaijan was the aggressive policy of Armenia. However, Armenian fascism was destroyed thanks to the victory achieved by the Azerbaijani army in the second Karabakh war, Hajiyev said.

The head of the State Security Service Ali Naghiyev pointed out the importance of conducting the "National Security" course, stressed the importance of combining efforts against threats currently directed against the security of Azerbaijan, an effective and coordinated struggle of the relevant structures against possible threats.

According to him, despite Azerbaijan's calls for peace, the forces that live with revanchist ideas and are unable to accept the real situation in the region, are taking destructive steps.

"These destructive elements in Armenia, unable to accept the current situation, are constantly conducting anti-Azerbaijani propaganda, trying to sow discord between different peoples living in Azerbaijan, exacerbate relations between our country and neighboring states. Under the leadership of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, the relevant state bodies are monitoring possible provocations of Armenians against our country, they are taking adequate measures," Naghiyev said.

He also spoke about the measures taken to neutralize the sabotage and intelligence activities against Azerbaijan by the special services of certain countries.

The participation of some citizens in the activities of illegal armed groups abroad, in armed conflicts, and their military training is one of the disturbing issues. The focus is constantly on the issue of provocative and terrorist actions that the citizens may commit in the future on the territory of our country, he stressed.

The State Security Service will take decisive measures against all actions aimed at violating the existing stability, added Naghiyev.
By Azernews





By Ayya Lmahamad

President Ilham Aliyev has praised the crucial role of Gubadli's liberation from the Armenian occupation in the subsequent course of the 44-day war in 2020.

He made the remarks during his meeting with the Gubadli regions public on October 25.

25 October played an important role in the subsequent course of the war. Because after the liberation of Gubadli, our road in the direction of Lachin was clear, and a few days later we liberated the villages in the southern part of Lachin. Thus, we took control of the Lachin corridor and the outcome of the war was already decided, he said.

The president added that after Gubadli we continued our victory march, our victory mission with dignity, and raised the national flag in Shusha on 8 November.

Reconstruction

Aliyev noted that the practical work related to the future development of Gubadli region is underway. He stated that the new substation was opened, which is the seventh on the liberated lands.

This infrastructure project takes into account the future development of Gubadli until 2050... However, this substation is designed for 40 megawatts, and if necessary, this capacity can be doubled. In other words, this is how we see the future development of Gubadli, the president said.

He said that a four-lane road from Zangilan to Gubadli and Lachin is under construction, for the comfortable use of people and delivery of products to shops on time and without delays.

Zangilan airport

Aliyev stressed that the Zangilan airport will be commissioned next year.

Zangilan airport will be commissioned next year. Zangilan and Gubadli are actually one and the same zone  the distance is not very large. Therefore, the people of Gubadli will also use it, he said.

He noted that the economic development plan for the Gubadli region must be prepared separately, as infrastructure projects have been approved. He added that the master plan will cover all the issues related to social infrastructure - schools, hospitals and other social facilities, residential buildings.

Gubadli master plan

Speaking about the reconstruction process, Aliyev underlined that Gubadli city was razed to the ground, there is not a single building that has been preserved.

He noted that the master plan of Gubadli is being prepared and in the coming months it will be presented.

Of course, this master plan will meet the most modern requirements. The nature and historical past of Gubadli will be taken into account in planning the architecture. At the same time, specific work on the future development of Gubadli district is already underway," he said.

Aliyev emphasized that after the reconstruction is completed on all liberated territories, streets and schools there will be named after martyrs.

He added that that area has great potential, rich nature, and natural resources.

Two large rivers pass through the territory of Gubadli district  the Bazarchay passes right through the center of the city. The Hakari River is a great asset not only for Gubadli but for all of Azerbaijan Therefore, proper planning must be carried out of what economic development should be like and what areas will develop. Of course, we will attract local and foreign investors. So we have major plans and there is a conceptual approach, he said.
By Azernews





By Vugar Khalilov

Some 77 mines and unexploded ordnance were found and defused on Azerbaijan's liberated territories on October 18-23, Azerbaijans Mine Action Agency has reported on its official Twitter page.

The agency found and defused 10 anti-personnel, 37 anti-tank mines and 30 unexploded munitions in Tartar, Aghdam, Fuzuli, Shusha, Gubadli, Jabrayil and Zangilan regions during the reported period.

Overall, 93.7 hectares were cleared of mines and unexploded ordnance in this period.

Earlier, the agency made public the results of its operations from November 2020 to October 2021. It said that 48,411 mines and munitions were found and defused from November 10, 2020, to October 15, 2021, on territories liberated from Armenia's occupation in last year's war.

Armenia deliberately and constantly planted mines on Azerbaijani territories, in violation of the 1949 Geneva Convention, thereby being a major threat to regional peace, security and cooperation.

Some 160 Azerbaijanis have been killed or injured in the explosion of mines planted by Armenians in Azerbaijans formerly occupied regions since the end of the war in autumn 2020 that saw Azerbaijan liberate most of its territories in and around the Nagorno-Karabakh region.

On June 12, Azerbaijan handed over 15 Armenian prisoners in exchange for a map detailing the location of 97,000 mines in formerly-occupied Aghdam.

On July 3, Armenia submitted to Azerbaijan maps of about 92,000 anti-tank and anti-personnel mines planted during the occupation of Fuzuli and Zangilan regions.

In his interview to CNN Turk channel on August 14, President Ilham Aliyev said that the accuracy of the maps provided by Armenia at the latest stage is only 25 percent.

The scale of destruction in Azerbaijans formerly occupied territories suggests deep hatred and animosity against Azerbaijanis, with many experts describing these mass destructions as genocide.

Azerbaijan and Armenia resumed the second war after that latter started firing at Azerbaijani civilians and military positions starting September 27, 2020. The war ended on November 10 with the signing of a trilateral peace deal by the Azerbaijani, Russian and Armenian leaders.

The peace agreement stipulated the return of Azerbaijan's Armenian-occupied Kalbajar, Aghdam and Lachin regions. Before the signing of the deal, the Azerbaijani army had liberated around 300 villages, settlements, city centres and historic Shusha city. The Azerbaijani army declared a victory against the Armenian troops. The signed agreement obliged Armenia to withdraw its troops from the Azerbaijani lands that it has occupied since the early 1990s.
An opening ceremony of the Fuzuli International Airport has been held, Azertag reported on October 26.

Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan attended the opening ceremony.

The Azerbaijani and Turkish presidents cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the airport.

The symbolic keys of the Fuzuli International Airport were handed over to the presidents.

The heads of state viewed conditions created at the airport.

President of AZAL Jahangir Asgarov informed the heads of state of the works done.

It was noted that the Fuzuli International Airport, known as the air gateway to Karabakh, was built at the most modern level. The airport has the capacity to receive any type of aircraft. The runway is 3,000 meters long and 60 meters wide. Equipped with the state-of-the-art infrastructure, the airport's terminal can process at least 200 passengers per hour. All the work done here was carried out in accordance with international norms and standards. Extensive landscaping work has been carried out around the airport. An Air Traffic Control Tower equipped with automated systems has been built. This makes it possible to operate flights from Fuzuli International Airport in accordance with ICAO and IATA standards. Baggage conveyors, registration system, VIP lounges, shops, restaurants and other necessary facilities have been established at the airport. All the criteria for the convenience of passengers have been taken into account.

It was also noted that international airports are also under construction in Zangilan and Lachin, and their construction will further expand the region's transport capabilities.

Then the heads of state were informed about the activities of the Souvenir Production Enterprise to be opened in Jojuq Marjanli. Twenty-five residents of Jojuq Marjanli village will be provided with jobs at the enterprise to be established with the financial support of Jojuq Marjanli Development Foundation, TUIB and TIKA. It will produce gift pottery, small carpets, handicrafts and other products. The state also supported the construction of the plant. The company was established under the auspices of the Small and Medium Business Development Agency. Production equipment was purchased and specialists from Turkey were involved in the organization of production. In addition, 15 greenhouses have been established with the support of TIKA. Lavender and rosemary plants and vegetables will be grown in greenhouses run by 15 families.

The heads of state then had a conversation.

President Ilham Aliyev: Thank you. Take a close-up. My dear brother has given me these beautiful watches. The image of Kharibulbul is also on it.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan: We have been to Shusha. Shusha is close from here. Kharibulbul is also a symbol of Shusha.

President Ilham Aliyev: Yes, thank you very much, thank you.




By Azernews





By Vugar Khalilov

Azerbaijani Defence Minister Zakir Hasanov and Turkish National Defence University Rector Erhan Afyoncu have discussed bilateral cooperation in military education, the Defence Ministry reported on October 25.

The minister emphasized the importance of developing cooperation in the field of military education, as well as in other areas within the framework of the military alliance with Turkey, the report added.

Hasanov stressed the necessity of applying the Turkish army model in Azerbaijan and exchanging experience with the Turkish National Defence University in the military education sphere.

Hasanov thanked the delegation for Turkey's moral and political support during the 44-day war between Armenia and Azerbaijan in 2020.

Afyoncu congratulated Azerbaijan on the victory in the Second Karabakh War. He stressed that mutual exchange of experience in military education between the two countries has a positive impact on increasing servicemen's knowledge and skills.

He assured that military cooperation between the two countries will continue.

Azerbaijan and Turkey periodically hold joint drills to improve interaction and communication between their army units.

Military cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey first emerged in 1992, with an agreement signed between the Azerbaijani and Turkish governments on military education and weapon equipment and deals to help strengthen the bond between the two nations.

On June 15, the two countries signed a memorandum of alliance that cemented the existing military, political and economic cooperation.

The Shusha Declaration on Allied Relations that President Ilham Aliyev and his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed during the first official visit to Shusha eight months after Azerbaijans victory in the war with Armenia, also focuses on defence cooperation.

It affirms joint efforts by the two armies in the face of foreign threats. The declaration also pledges joint efforts for the restructuring and modernization of the armed forces. Moreover, the two nations affirm to encourage the execution of joint projects with the aim of developing capabilities in the field of sea, air, and space.

In an interview with Turkey's Anadolu Agency on September 27, President Ilham Aliyev said that the signing of the Shusha Declaration raised bilateral relations to an even higher level.
By Azernews





By Vugar Khalilov

Deputy Defence Minister Karim Valiyev and NATO Cooperative Security Division of the International Military Staff Director Francesco Diella have discussed cooperation within the Operational Capabilities Concept (OCC), the Defence Ministry reported on October 25.

Valiyev appreciated NATOs contribution to the training of the Azerbaijani army units, the report added.

He noted the Azerbaijani army's improving combat readiness following its victory in the 44-day war between Armenia and Azerbaijan in late 2020.

Diella highly appreciated Azerbaijans activities in all areas within the framework of partnership with NATO, including participation in peacekeeping operations.

The two officials also focused on the future development of cooperation with NATO in various fields.

The NATO delegation was received by Defence Minister Zakir Hasanov on October 25. The post-war regional situation was discussed at the meeting between Hasanov and Diella.

The country's relations with NATO started in 1992 when Azerbaijan joined the North Atlantic Cooperation Council. This forum for dialogue was succeeded in 1997 by the Euro-Atlantic Partnership Council, which brings together all allies and partner countries in the Euro-Atlantic area.

Bilateral cooperation began when Azerbaijan joined the Partnership for Peace (PfP) programme in 1994. Thanks to regular participation in PfP activities, Azerbaijan has been able to contribute actively to Euro-Atlantic security by supporting NATO-led peace-support operations.

Azerbaijans participation in the PfP Planning and Review Process (PARP) since 1997 has allowed NATO and individual Allies to assist Azerbaijan in developing selected units to improve interoperability with those of the Allies.

NATO and Azerbaijan started work on a jointly agreed Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) in 2008 to integrate NATO standards into the teaching methodologies and curricula of the countrys Professional Military Education (PME) institutions.

In 2018, Azerbaijan asked NATO to also involve the Military High School, a pre-commissioning school, in DEEP.

Cooperative activities, reform plans and political dialogue processes are detailed in Azerbaijans Individual Partnership Action Plan (IPAP), which is jointly agreed upon.
President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and President of the Republic of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan viewed works done under the smart village project implemented in Aghali village, Zangilan district, Azertag has reported.

Minister of Agriculture Inam Karimov informed the heads of state of the works done in the village.








By Azernews





By Ayya Lmahamad

Azerbaijans Yashat Foundation, which was set up to help families of soldiers killed and injured during last year's 44-day Karabakh war, continues to send seriously injured war veterans to Turkey for treatment.

Four more veterans - Taghiyev Ilkin, Ismayilov Seymur, Shiraliyev Mehman and Orucov Samir will receive treatment in Turkey.

The foundation will monitor the veterans' treatment until their full recovery.

To date, 144 war veterans have been sent to Turkey for treatment. The treatment of 98 of them has already been successfully completed and they have returned home. In addition, the foundation also provides medicines for the treatment of wounded war veterans.

Earlier, it was reported that the foundation allocated AZN 22.6 million ($13.2M) to improve living conditions of martyrs' families and wounded servicemen after receiving 5,667 appeals from them, as well as AZN 5.6 million ($3.2M) were allocated to pay for the medical and educational expenses of 2,357 such citizens. The foundation also repaid AZN 3.8 million ($2.2M) in loans following appeals by 1,152 martyrs' family members and disabled war veterans.

Set up by the presidential decree in December 2020, the foundations work covers the families of servicemen killed or disabled during the war and also the families of employees of state bodies (institutions) who became disabled or lost their lives while serving in the liberated lands or while removing the consequences of military operations in the liberated lands.

Yashat receives donations made through voluntary financial assistance provided by Azerbaijani citizens, Azerbaijanis living abroad, other individuals and legal entities, as well as other sources not prohibited by law.

As of October 26, the foundation has collected over AZN 63.5 million ($37.4M).
The World Alliance of International Financial Centres (WAIFC) leaders have convened in Dubai for the first time at DIFC and unanimously approved the membership of The Italian Banking, Insurance and Finance Federation (FeBAF).

FeBAF was an observer before, and all WAIFC members are very much looking forward to continue working closely together with FeBAF and exchanging best practices.

Eleven members of the board of directors and the managing director were re-elected for a second term. Furthermore, Jersey Finance has joined WAIFC as an observer.

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the leading global financial centre in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia region is hosting the meeting of WAIFC members in Dubai today for WAIFCs Annual General Meeting 2021. 35 member representatives took part in the meeting.

The delegates also discussed current issues, e.g., the joint activities in supporting the economic recovery from the current pandemic, the transition towards a sustainable financial industry, innovative trends in finance like artificial intelligence, financing of SMEs, and inclusive finance.

Further member events will take place during the next two days, including a roundtable for discussing the future of financial centres, a visit to DIFCs Innovation Hub and FinTech Hive, as well as a gathering at the Dubai Expo.

Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, commented: DIFC is delighted to be hosting the World Alliance of International Financial Centres Annual General Meeting. It is the first time leaders from financial centres across the globe have chosen to convene in Dubai. We are looking forward to leading important discussions with our fellow members, especially in the areas of the future of finance and innovation where we have made substantial progress, as well as highlighting the achievements DIFC has made which contribute to our reputation as the regions leading financial centre.

Commenting on the results of the Annual General Meeting, Jennifer Reynolds, Chairwoman of the WAIFC, stated: Today's Annual General Meeting of WAIFC was an opportunity to reflect on the important role financial centres play in supporting the recovery from the pandemic and the growth in the real economy. Our members all agree on the importance of collaborating on how best to accelerate sustainable economic growth and innovation in the delivery of global financial services. We were also delighted to welcome our newest member, the Italian Banking, Insurance and Finance Federation (FeBAF).

Dr Jochen Biedermann, Managing Director of the WAIFC, added: After a long pandemic-related break, our members met in Dubai today for our Annual General Meeting and had a very intensive exchange on current topics. The focus was on sustainable finance and the economic recovery from the pandemic. We would like to thank DIFC very much for the kind invitation to Dubai, the warm hospitality and the perfect organisation of our Annual General Meeting.

Appointed to the WAIFC Board on June 3, 2021, DIFC, through its recent achievements, is working with WAIFC to address key issues surrounding resilience and recovery from the pandemic, and planning for long-term success. Being a member of WAIFC reflects DIFCs commitment to share industry knowledge with other financial centres around the world. DIFC is focusing on driving the future of finance with WAIFC members in areas such as FinTech, Innovation, Sustainable Finance and developing Digital Economies.-- TradeArabia News Service
Dubai CommerCity, the first and leading e-commerce free zone in the region, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Mashreq, one of the leading financial institutions in the UAE.

The MoU aims to offer Small to Medium Enterprises (SME) with the ideal ecosystem for setting up their e-commerce business, through providing them with access to Application Programming Interfaces (API) integration and banking services through Mashreqs exclusively digital business banking platform, NEOBiz.

As part of the deal, e-commerce businesses will be able to utilise Mashreq's NEOBiz platform, enabling them to open bank accounts in a rapid and efficient manner, as well as receive assistance from Mashreqs dedicated team of experts.

It will also provide e-commerce businesses and SMEs with discounted access to accounting packages, cloud infrastructure, digital tools and a suite of mobile point-of-sale solutions, payment gateways and software systems such as ZohoBooks, Microsoft Office and AWS, to scale their business and propel its growth.

DeVere Forster, Chief Operating Officer at Dubai CommerCity, said: "We are proud to be signing a strategic MoU with Mashreq, who will be providing e-commerce businesses at Dubai CommerCity with access to their advanced digital banking platform, facilitating the process of setting up their business."

"This partnership contributes to establishing Dubai CommerCitys position as an innovation centre that supports entrepreneurs and SMEs to grow their business and expand their brands exposure in the region," he stated.

"At Dubai CommerCity, we always ensure providing our customers with a unique ecosystem where they can access advanced solutions, packages, and services that support their growth," added Forster.

Vikas Thapar, Head of Business Banking and NEOBiz at Mashreq Bank, said: "We are pleased to be a part of Dubai CommerCitys innovation ecosystem and support the growth of SMEs, who play an instrumental role in supporting the national economy and enabling job creation."

"As part of our strategic partnership, Mashreq will provide Dubai CommerCitys SMEs and e-commerce start-ups with a robust portfolio of banking and financial solutions, allowing them to focus on kick-starting and scaling up their businesses," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
As preparations get under way for the IDC Middle East CIO Summit 2022, International Data Corporation (IDC) has announce that Gulf Business Machines (GBM) has been appointed as the event's Strategic Partner.

The IDC Middle East CIO Summit is one of the most anticipated tech events in the region, and next year's 15th annual edition will serve as the platform of choice for prominent business leaders, influential IT heads, and respected industry analysts from around the world as they share their collective expertise and exchange valuable ideas.

"We are thrilled to welcome GBM on board as our Strategic Partner for next year's edition of the IDC Middle East CIO Summit," says Jyoti Lalchandani, IDC's group vice president and regional managing director for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa. "The journey to becoming a 'Future Enterprise' has accelerated, spurred by significant investments in new customer experiences, new digital ecosystem business models, digital supply chains, and 'Future of Work' models.

"This all needs to be supported by resilient, cloud-enabled digital infrastructure and applications, rapid app development, digital platforms, data-driven and AI-enabled intelligence, comprehensive security, and unwavering trust. Together with GBM and our partners, our aim is to help ICT leaders across the Middle East to develop the capabilities, performance metrics, and organisation structures required to thrive in the new digital economy."

With more than 30 years of experience, GBM is a leading end-to-end digital solutions provider, offering a broad portfolio that includes industry-leading digital infrastructure, digital business solutions, security, and services.

"The IDC Middle East CIO Summit has come to be known as one of the foremost events for thought-provoking insights on the future of the digital economy," says Amr Refaat, CEO of GBM.

"It has played a pivotal role in introducing industry best practices and helping organisations adapt and build resilient economies. Today, as the region stands at the threshold of growth and transformation, collaborative discussions are instrumental in helping accelerate digital adoption among regional businesses. The IDC Middle East CIO Summit is a crucial platform for the technology industry to share its vision for digital evolution and as the Strategic Partner of the summit we look forward to sharing GBMs global knowledge and local expertise with our industry partners."

The IDC Middle East CIO Summit 2022 will run under the theme 'Accelerating the Journey to a Digital First World' from February 22 to 24.

Taking place in a hybrid format, the IDC Middle East CIO Summit will incorporate a two-day in-person gathering at The Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Dubai International Financial Centre, followed by a one-day virtual event, hosting more than 500 CIOs and influential business leaders from across the region.

The annual IDC Middle East CIO Summit is the place to come for thought-provoking, in-depth discussions about cutting-edge tech solutions, emerging use cases, and proven strategies for driving success. For 15 straight years, it has served as the ICT world's premier source of learning about the industry's latest developments.-- TradeArabia News Service
Neom Tech & Digital Holding Company, the first holding company to be established as a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's futuristic $500-billion new city Neom, has signed a $200 million joint venture agreement with OneWeb, the global communications network powered from space, to bring high-speed satellite connectivity to Neom, Saudi Arabia and the wider Middle East and neighboring East African countries.

The partnership will see the deployment of OneWebs Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite constellation, which will not only provide the rapid and reliable connectivity to enable the Saudi citys ecosystem of cognitive technologies, but also transform businesses and rural communities in the region where access to fiber-like internet was previously unimaginable.

The agreement also includes a long-term strategic partnership regarding research and development of future connectivity systems, it stated.

It also builds on the relationship between OneWeb and the Ministry Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) and Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia (MISA).

Established in 2017, they are focused on unlocking Saudi Arabias nascent orbital space technology sector for private investors. In addition, it further strengthens ties between Saudi Arabia and the UK Government, which is a major strategic investor in OneWeb.

As per the JV deal, Neom Tech & Digital Hold Company and OneWeb, the second largest LEO operator with 358 satellites and the only licensed operator in Saudi Arabia, expect to complete ground infrastructure in 2022.

Neom Tech & Digital Hold Co. and the new JV entity will have exclusive rights to distribute OneWeb services in its target regions for seven years from the initiation of the LEO satellite network, which is expected to commence in 2023.

Neom Tech & Digital Hold Company CEO Joseph Bradley and Neil Masterson, CEO, OneWeb, formalised the agreement at a ceremony held on the sidelines of the kingdoms flagship Future Investment Initiative event in the presence of Khalid Al Falih, Minister of Investment, Abdullah Alswaha, Minister for Communications & Information Technology.

Lord Gerry Grimstone, Minister for Investment at Department for International Trade and Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy, UK; also took part along with Nadhmi Al Nasr, CEO, Neom and Sunil Bharti Mittal, Executive Chairman, OneWeb.

Al Falih said: "It is a great pleasure to witness the signing of the joint venture between Neom and OneWeb, which is a testament to Saudi Arabias promising future in the space technology sectors. Todays agreement will contribute to economic growth and accelerate digital and communications knowledge transfer to the kingdom through the transformative Neom vision."

"As the Ministry of Investment works to implement the National Investment Strategy recently launched by HRH the Crown Prince, we will continue to provide support to this and other differentiated initiatives and projects and look forward to seeing it come to fruition in the near future," he stated.

Al Swaha said: This ground-breaking joint venture shows the power of collaboration between nations, and with the private sector. By working together, we will bring digital connectivity to a region of more than a billion people, opening access to life-changing opportunities in education, healthcare and the job market. We are one step closer to ensuring that no child is left on the wrong side of the digital divide.

Grimstone pointed out that the JV has brought together two emerging space and digital technology champions to deliver connectivity for the Middle East.

It demonstrates that the UK Governments investment in OneWeb continues to be a catalyst for international collaboration, while securing jobs at home and driving investment into the UK space sector.

Bradley said: "We aim to connect 100% of Neoms territory yet we must also preserve the natural environment. This is what drives us to innovate with partners such as OneWeb to create sustainable ways to accelerate human progress. The partnership has the potential to transform the way governments, businesses and communities connect to the internet."

Currently, OneWeb uses the latest security protection employed in advanced mobile networks. Neom Tech & Digital Hold Co. will be trialing technologies to provide further security protection as well as testing new, more robust and resistant positioning and navigation solutions.

On the strategic deal, Mittal said "This will help realize our joint vision of boosting connectivity in Saudi Arabia, Middle-East and East Africa. It exemplifies the model through which OneWebs services will reach unconnected or poorly connected regions - through cooperation with international governments and local partners."

Masterson pointed out that the deal represents OneWebs global vision to help bridge the digital divide through its innovative LEO satellite network.

By working with Neom Tech & Digital Hold Company, OneWeb will support the ambitions of Neom, connecting businesses and communities and supporting the resilience of connectivity systems across the wider region.

The partnership supports Neom Tech & Digital Hold Co.s international connectivity strategy, which will use connections to sub-sea and terrestrial communications cables, the construction of 5G and fibre networks, and now Leo satellites to secure access to tens of terabytes of scalable capacity for both urban and rural businesses and communities in Neom by 2030.-TradeArabia News Service
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Space Centre (MBRSC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italys Thales Alenia Space Italia (TAS-I) and the Aerospace Logistics Technology Engineering Company (Altec). The MoU seeks to identify opportunities to study and develop solutions for space and planetary exploration systems.

The MoU was signed by Salem AlMarri, Deputy Director General, MBRSC, Massimo Claudio, Managing Director, TAS-I and Vincenzo Giorgo, CEO, Altec on the sidelines of the International Astronautical Congress, the worlds premier space event, being held at the World Trade Centre in Dubai.

The preliminary areas of cooperation identified include interplanetary missions development, rover system design and integration, advanced terrestrial analogous systems, higher education activities dedicated to space exploration and development systems, among others.

Yousuf Hamad AlShaibani, Director General, MBRSC said: We welcome this MoU which formalises and strengthens our partnership with Altec and TAS-I. We look forward to continuing to build on our constructive co-operation in the interest of enhancing space exploration projects.

Herve Derrey, President and CEO of Thales Alenia Space said: "This MoU marks a key achievement in our cooperation with MBRSC on exploration from Low Earth Orbit to Moon and Mars. Thales Alenia Space has a long-standing technological and industrial expertise in this field complemented by Altec capabilities in mission operations."-- TradeArabia News Service
Starting on November 8, non-citizen, non-immigrant air travellers to the US will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of Covid-19 vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to fly to the US, with only limited exceptions.



The updated travel guidelines also include new protocols around testing. To further strengthen protections, unvaccinated travellers  whether US Citizens, lawful permanent residents (LPRs), or the small number of excepted unvaccinated foreign nationals  will now need to test within one day of departure.



The Biden Administration is releasing the following documents to implement these requirements: 1) a Presidential Proclamation to Advance the Safe Resumption of Global Travel During the Covid-19 Pandemic; 2) three Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Orders on vaccination, testing, and contact tracing; and 3) technical instructions to provide implementation details to the airlines and their passengers.



The additional detail released today provides airlines and international air travellers with time to prepare for this new policy ahead of the November 8 implementation date. As previously announced, fully vaccinated foreign nationals will also be able to travel across the Northern and Southwest land borders for non-essential reasons, such as tourism, starting on November 8.



Summary of air travel announcement:



Fully Vaccinated Status:



 Starting on November 8, non-citizen, non-immigrant air travellers to the US will be required to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to fly to the US



Proof of Vaccination:



 For foreign nationals, proof of vaccination will be required  with very limited exceptions  to board the plane.

 Passengers will need to show their vaccination status, and the airlines will need to:

 Match the name and date of birth to confirm the passenger is the same person reflected on the proof of vaccination;

 Determine that the record was issued by an official source (e.g., public health agency, government agency) in the country where the vaccine was given;

 Review the essential information for determining if the passenger meets CDCs definition for fully vaccinated such as vaccine product, number of vaccine doses received, date(s) of administration, site (e.g., vaccination clinic, health care facility) of vaccination.

 The Biden Administration will work closely with the airlines to ensure that these new requirements are implemented successfully.



Accepted Vaccines:



 CDC has determined that for purposes of travel to the US, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and World Health Organization (WHO) emergency use listed (EUL) vaccines.

 Individuals can be considered fully vaccinated 2 weeks after receipt of the last dose if they have received any single dose of an FDA approved/authorized or WHO EUL approved single-dose series (i.e., Janssen), or any combination of two doses of an FDA approved/authorized or WHO emergency use listed Covid-19 two-dose series (i.e. mixing and matching).



Enhanced Testing:



 Previously, all travellers were required to produce a negative viral test result within three days of travel to the US.

 Both nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), such as a PCR test, and antigen tests qualify.

 As announced in September, the new system tightens those requirements, so that unvaccinated US Citizens and LPRs will need to provide a negative test taken within one day of travelling.

 That means that all fully vaccinated US Citizens and LPRs travelling to the US should be prepared to present documentation of their vaccination status alongside their negative test result.

 For those Americans who can show they are fully vaccinated, the same requirement currently in place will apply  they have to produce a negative test result within three days of travel.

 For anyone travelling to the US who cannot demonstrate proof of full vaccination, they will have to produce documentation of a negative test within one day of departure.



Requirements for Children:



 Children under 18 are excepted from the vaccination requirement for foreign national travellers, given both the ineligibility of some younger children for vaccination, as well as the global variability in access to vaccination for older children who are eligible to be vaccinated.

 Children between the ages of 2 and 17 are required to take a pre-departure test.

 If travelling with a fully vaccinated adult, an unvaccinated child can test three days prior to departure (consistent with the timeline for fully vaccinated adults). If an unvaccinated child is travelling alone or with unvaccinated adults, they will have to test within one day of departure.



Limited Exceptions from the Vaccination Requirement:



 There are a very limited set of exceptions from the vaccination requirement for foreign nationals. These include exceptions for children under 18, certain Covid-19 vaccine clinical trial participants, those with medical contraindications to the vaccines, those who need to travel for emergency or humanitarian reasons (with a US government-issued letter affirming the urgent need to travel), those who are travelling on non-tourist visas from countries with low-vaccine availability (as determined by the CDC), and other very narrow categories.

 Those who receive an exception will generally be required to attest they will comply with applicable public health requirements, including, with very limited exceptions, a requirement that they be vaccinated in the US if they intend to stay here for more than 60 days.



Contact Tracing:



 The CDC is also issuing a Contact Tracing Order that requires all airlines flying into the US to keep on hand  and promptly turn over to the CDC, when needed  contact information that will allow public health officials to follow up with inbound air travellers who are potentially infected or have been exposed to someone who is infected.

 This is a critical public health measure both to prevent the introduction, transmission, and spread of new variants of Covid-19 as well as to add a critical prevention tool to address other public health threats.  TradeArabia News Service
Cruise Saudi, the company facilitating the development of the cruise industry in Saudi Arabia, has confirmed that it has become a member of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC).

Launched in January 2021 at the Future Investment Initiative (FII), Cruise Saudi has made good progress in its mission to bring the global cruise industry to Saudi Arabia.

The company has worked together with stakeholders such as the Saudi Port Authority MAWANI to guide the construction of a new cruise terminal at Jeddah Islamic Port, Saudi Arabias largest port. It has signed agreements with leading global cruise operators to bring their ships to Saudi waters, a statement from the company said.

MSC Bellissima, owned by MSC Cruises, a privately owned cruise line, and luxury liner Scenic Eclipse, have both been sailing the Saudi coastline during the summer season.

Cruise Saudi Managing Director Fawaz Farooqui said: Our membership of WTTC is an important step in fulfilling Saudi Arabias plans to become a new pillar for the global cruise industry. We have an unparalleled blend of cultural, historical and natural attractions that will appeal to a wide range of travellers, and we have begun to develop world-class infrastructure that has enabled us to start welcoming them.

He added: Through WTTC, we seek to alert the global cruise industry not only to the attractions of our country but also to its ability to provide seamless and safe tourist services. Saudi Arabia is committed to building a sustainable, environmentally conscious tourism industry in line with the goals of Vision 2030, and we look forward to collaborating with the WTTC on these efforts.

The membership of WTTC, which advocates for the development of the travel and tourism sector as a driver of sustainable economic growth, will further establish the Saudi cruise industry just as international leisure travel begins to resume following the Covid-19 pandemic.

Joining the Council will allow Cruise Saudi to better shine a spotlight on the year-round potential of the Saudi market to tour operators, travel agents and cruise lines, in addition to sourcing key data on international travel trends and learning from the best practitioners in the global cruise sector.

WTTC President & CEO Julia Simpson said: We are delighted to be welcoming Cruise Saudi as a member of the council. The Saudi travel & tourism sector will be critical to powering the countrys economy once Covid-19 has been combatted, and we look forward to working closely with Cruise Saudi, and continuing our work with the government, to ensure a swift recovery of this fast-growing sector.-TradeArabia News Service
AlUla, home to Hegra, a Unesco World Heritage Site and one of the oldest cities in the Arabian Peninsula, is set to welcome its first signature fine-dining restaurant.

English Chef and restaurateur Jason Atherton, who owns and runs three-Michelin-star restaurants across the world, will open Maraya Social on October 27 at AlUla.

The restaurant is located on the rooftop of the iconic-mirrored building with 360-degree views of stunning rock-strewn valleys and canyons of the Ashar Valley, said a statement.

Atherton said, My team and I are so impressed by the natural beauty, history and culture of AlUla that I jumped at the chance to be one of the first permanent fine-dining venues in AlUla and be part of the exciting progress in the kingdom. The beauty of the Ashar Valley, the native produce and the iconic Maraya architecture are all the ingredients we need for what is sure to be a sought-after destination dining experience.

AlUla has an amazing diversity of produce unique to the region and an incredible history and culture which I am excited to explore both in the landscape and in the menu, said Chef Atherton.

Reflecting the architecture of Maraya and complementing the natural beautify of AlUla, the open-plan design puts comfort first featuring bespoke furniture and soft fabric materials including silk, cotton and rayon with colors that reflect its environment. The restaurant offers relaxing yet vibrant atmosphere during the day, and by nights, it will be low-lit to create an unforgettable dining experience under the bright stars.

The menu is sourced from seasonal fruits, vegetables and locally produced ingredients and features a selection of sharing plates, served with high-quality mocktails. The menu is designed to share and create a social environment for diners, said the statement.

Maraya Social will be the newest addition to Jasons portfolio of international restaurants and his first venture into Saudi Arabia. The restaurant will receive reservations through the website.

Phillip Jones, Chief Destination Management and Marketing Offices, Royal Commission for AlUla, welcomed the new addition to AlUlas dining scene.

Maraya Social is set to be a destination restaurant for Middle East and the world. We are delighted for AlUla to be the home of Chefs first restaurant in Saudi Arabia. AlUla presents a unique opportunity both in terms of the historical setting as well as the untapped pantry of produce and flavours.

With new international and home-grown food and beverage brands flocking to AlUla this winter, and an exciting calendar of events, the opening of the Maraya Social complements our strategic plans to boost AlUlas tourism infrastructure and become a favorite boutique cultural destination for visitors from the Kingdom and beyond, said Jones. -TradeArabia News Service
Help India!



US based advocacy group Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) said that India is Facebooks largest market, with 340 million active users, and yet the company allocates only scant time and resources towards monitoring India-specific hate speech and fake news. IAMC said that as a result, such content has resulted in real-life consequences for minorities in India, especially Muslims.

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WASHINGTON, D.C.  The Indian American Muslim Council (IAMC) Tuesday called on Facebook to take immediate action against Indias hate speech epidemic, which has directly led to violence in the past and will continue to have deadly consequences if left unchecked.

Whistleblower Frances Haugen, a former Facebook product manager, has exposed the companys failure to curb hate speech, which has led to societal division and violence against vulnerable populations in multiple countries, including India. Within Facebook groups and WhatsApp chats, most instances of fake news, fear-mongering propaganda, lynching videos, gory images, and hateful content are freely circulated with no pushback.

India is Facebooks largest market, with 340 million active users, and yet the company allocates only scant time and resources towards monitoring India-specific hate speech and fake news. As a result, such content has resulted in real-life consequences for minorities in India, especially Muslims. The Wall Street Journal reports that inflammatory content on Facebook spiked 300% above previous levels at times during the months following December 2019, a period in which religious protests swept India.

The sheer volume of anti-Muslim hate speech culminated in the 2020 Delhi pogroms, according to a report reviewed by the Wall Street Journal. Rumors and calls to violence were spread widely in the lead up to the clashes, which left 53 dead. The majority of the victims were Muslims, beaten and lynched at the hands of Hindu supremacist mobs.

According to Haugen, Indian Facebook is awash with dehumanizing posts comparing Muslims to pigs and dogs and misinformation claiming the Quran calls for men to rape their female family members. Rumours that Hindus are in danger are common, padded by unfounded claims that Muslims were responsible for the spread of Covid-19, that Muslim men have an agenda to seduce and convert Hindu women to Islam, and that Muslims are generally anti-nationals who hate all Hindus.

Facebooks continued dereliction of duty in the face of mounting evidence of how its platform is enabling violence and genocide, is an alarm bell for all who care about human rights and democracy, said Mr Rasheed Ahmed, Executive Editor of IAMC. As Facebook has failed to clean house despite multiple exposes, it is time for regulators to step in.

This report is consistent with criticisms human rights organizations have made of India since the election of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014. John Sifton, Asia Advocacy Director for Human Rights Watch, writes: This divisive political discourse has served to normalize violence against minorities, especially Muslims, in India. Prejudices embedded in the government have infiltrated independent institutions, such as the police, empowering nationalist groups to threaten, harass, and attack religious minorities with impunity.

This rhetoric trickles down from some of the most powerful figureheads of the Indian government, which in turn normalizes extremism among the general population. A leaked document shows that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the ideological offspring of the RSS and the party of Narendra Modi, encourages the use of multiple accounts under a single user, which aids in the spread of propaganda. The Bajrang Dal, a Hindu extremist group with links to the BJP, frequently posts anti-Muslim hate speech on the platform. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the umbrella organization of the Hindu supremacist movement, was specifically called out by Hagen for promoting fear-mongering and anti-Muslim narratives, and targeting propaganda towards pro-Hindu populations with V&I (violent and incendiary) intent.

Facebooks failures in India mirror its deadly role in the ethnic cleansing of Rohingya Muslims in Myanmar. If left unchecked, Indias hate speech problem could likely culminate in a similar genocide, IAMC said.
Help India!



After the spate of civilian killings in Kashmir, especially of members of the Kashmiri Pandit community and non-locals, the government has beefed security in the capital Srinagar, including seizing two-wheelers and shutting internet in some areas. The locals have resented these moves.

Auqib Javeed | TwoCircles.net

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SRINAGAR  The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, Srinagar is witnessing back to back encounters between security forces and militants following the targeted killing of local and non-local civilians in the past few weeks.

The encounters are taking place even after the district was declared militancy free in 2020. The city has witnessed over nine encounters in this year alone. Apart from the civilian killings, over half a dozen policemen have been killed in different militant attacks.

Even after the killing of thirteen militants following targeted civilian killings, the suspected militants shot dead two more non-locals in Srinagar.

In response, the authorities have beefed up security across the city.

According to reports, 50 companies of additional paramilitary force are being inducted to strengthen the security apparatus in the Valley, especially in Srinagar, in the wake of civilian killings.

Security bunkers are making a comeback on the city streets with additional deployment of paramilitary personnel.

Security bunkers operated by the Central Armed Paramilitary Forces (CAPFs) are being set up in several areas of Srinagar. These bunkers were removed between 2011 and 2014 after the overall improvement in the security situation in Kashmir.

Despite a strong robust anti-insurgency grid, the suspected militants managed to penetrate and carry out the attacks, sending the security forces in a tizzy.

For the first time in recent years, a team of female paramilitary troopers were deployed in Lal Chowk, the commercial centre of Srinagar, where female commuters and even children are being subjected to frisking, evoking anger from Kashmiris on social media.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police also launched a crackdown on bikers with hundreds of motorbikes seized in Srinagar ahead of Home Minister Amit Shahs visit.

The people alleged that their bikes were seized, even after possessing all the ownership and other documents.

The J&K police accepted that they seized some bikes and shut down the internet of some towers in Kashmir, maintaining these were purely related to terror violence.

However, the residents claim that the entire city has been turned into an open-air prison following the civilian killings.

You have new security checkpoints after every 3-4 kilometres in the city. Frisking, checking the vehicle documents and just like it used to be during the nineties bringing down people from the public transport rather than asking for the identification card are back to the city, Mohammad Sharik, a resident of Srinagar told TwoCircles.net.

Sharik said that even kids are not spared and are made to stand in queue for frisking.

The latest actions by the security forces have brought back memories of the nineties when security forces would stop and frisk anyone in Kashmir.

On October 21, a picture of a child while being frisked by freshly deployed women personnel of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in Srinagar city went viral on social media, prompting netizens to condemn the action.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former chief minister of the erstwhile state Mehbooba Mufti, while sharing different pictures of frisking and new bunkers on her Twitter handle said even the kids arent being spared by the government.

After taking such stringent, harsh & repressive measures like mass arrests, suspension of the internet at will, frisking people (not sparing even kids), seizing bikes plus two-wheelers & setting up new security bunkers all over what is left to do? Mufti tweeted.

Locals said that for the first time in the last thirty years, women were frisked by female CRPF constables in the Lal Chowk area of the city. The CRPF women checked the bags of female folk passing through the city centre Lal Chowk.

Many residents from the downtown area of Srinagar told TwoCircles.net that mobile internet services have also been restricted in some parts of the city for a week.

Our business, education and other things suffer because of the frequent internet shutdowns. Such harsh measures should be lifted, said Rumaisa Jaan, a resident of downtown Srinagar.

Sources told TwoCircles.net that the security agencies are under a lot of pressure from the Central government following the targeted killings of civilians, especially of members of the Kashmir Pandit community and non-locals.

On his visit to J&K, Home Minister Shah reviewed the security situation and steps taken to combat militancy in Kashmir Valley in the wake of recent killings. The meeting was attended by top civil administration officials, including Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and senior security officials from the Army, CRPF, police and other agencies.

Pertinently, nine civilians, including five non-local labourers and three minority community members, were killed by suspected militants in October.

Auqib Javeed is a journalist based in Kashmir. He tweets at @AuqibJaveed.
Parties Meet in UN-led Constitution Drafting Meetings for Syria

Gabriel Moushe. Geneva, Switzerland (AINA) -- The sixth round of the UN-led constitutional meetings between the delegations of the Syrian Government and Syrian Opposition and civil society representatives belonging to NGOs started Monday, October 18 in Geneva. The meetings are chaired by the UN Special Envoy Geir O. Pederson, with co-chairs from the Syrian Government and Opposition.

The aim of the meetings is to draft a new Syrian constitution.

International observers and regional powers expressed support and placed hopes that this session of the drafting-body of the Constitutional Committee would finally start real work, as the fifth round held in January remained focused on procedural issues and made insufficient progress (AINA 2021-02-24).

In a statement published ahead of the meeting on Sunday October 17, Mr. Pedersen said he "had the pleasure to meet already with the Co-Chair nominated by the government and the Co-Chair nominated by the opposition," and that he also "met with the so-called Middle Third or civil society 15 members. All very good meetings."

Prior the first day sessions, the delegations submitted their proposals to the U.N. concerning the basic principles of a new constitution that will determine the future of Syria.

The Assyrian Democratic Organization (ADO) was a founding member of the Syrian National Council and part of the opposition, the Syrian National Coalition, since its inception. As such, it is part of the larger constitutional opposition delegation to the UN. Gabriel Moushe, an executive member of the ADO who is responsible for external political relations, attended the conference.

Mr. Moushe headed the ADO from 2009 to 2018. He was arrested in Qamishly on December 2013 by the Syrian Secret Police and imprisoned in Damascus for alleged terrorism. Although ADO did not take up arms and only protested peacefully in the streets, the Syrian regime considered Gabriel Moushe an inconvenient opposition figure whom they wanted to intimidate. He was finally released in June 2016.

The following Interview was conducted with Mr. Moshe in Geneva.

Abdulmesih BarAbraham (AB): Welcome in Geneva. First, you are currently living in Qamishli, known as Syrian Jezira in northeastern Syria. How is the security situation there?

Gabriel Moushe (GM): Thank you. The security situation in the Qamishli region is relatively stable compared to the other Syrian regions, but it is fragile for fears of a renewed military conflict between the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) with Turkey and its allied militia, which could lead to a new cycle of violence, especially in areas where they are facing each other directly, like the western countryside of Tel Tamer -- unless the Russians and the Americans, who have agreements with Turkey stipulating SDF to be kept 30 km away from the Turkish border, can defuse the provocations

AB: How would you asses the health, humanitarian, and economical situation in the country? How is life of the population impacted in the region?

GM: The humanitarian situation is mainly impacted by the economic situation, as the vast majority of the Syrian population suffer from deteriorating economic conditions, high commodity prices, weak purchasing power due to the depreciation of the Syrian pound, and low wages of workers that averages about $20 per month, 20 000 SP (Syrian Pound); this is merely enough for a family to make living from for a few days. In comparison, a family of five people needs an estimated at 1,300,000 Syrian Pounds per month to secure basic needs.

This situation is exacerbated by the long hours of power shortages and the lack of fuel and gas. Most of the people depend on the aid provided by international humanitarian organizations, as well as Assyrian expatriates living in the countries of diaspora and supporting their families.

AB: Earlier you attended the UN-led constitutional meetings. According to a statement by the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Geir O. Pederson, there has been agreement on the meeting procedures between Syria's Opposition and Syrian Government representatives, which seemed to be the obstacle for earlier gathering in Geneva. Did the three blocks ultimately accepted each other, and real constitutional work can start?

GM: During the current round of meetings of the Constitutional Committee's drafting group, which began its work in Geneva on October 18, there was an agreement on a new process to speed the momentum, which required first holding a meeting of the two co-chairs of the Constitutional Committee with Special Envoy Mr. Geir Pedersen, in order to prepare for the first round of the meeting. It was also agreed that delegations would submit written proposals for constitutional context of principles for discussion.

AB: As understood, there exists a drafting sub-group or body of 45 people equally appointed from the three blocks of the larger Constitutional Committee of 150 people, the latter assembled of delegates from the Syrian Opposition, Syrian Government and civic society representatives. Would you briefly describe the course of the meetings?

GM: The course of the meetings in this round is characterized as calm, unlike the previous rounds, which witnessed a lot of quarrels and provocations, orchestrated by the government delegation because it was not serious [about the meetings] and did not believe in the political process as a solution for Syria, including negotiation on the constitution. But because of Russian pressure on the Syrian Government's delegation, in this meeting some discussions on constitutional issues took place. The atmosphere is not without occasional attempts to obstruct and raise issues unrelated to the constitution by government's delegation.

AB: What are the key issues under focus in the recent sessions? Are we talking about an amendment, change of the current Syrian constitution or is the aim to draft a totally new constitution?

GM: The delegations submitted four papers containing formulations of constitutional principles that were discussed by all members of the drafting-committee during the week. Where the government delegation presented a proposal entitled "The Sovereignty, Independence and Unity of the Syrian Arab Republic", the delegation of the opposition presented a proposal entitled "Army, Armed Forces, Security and Intelligence"; the civil society delegation close to the opposition presented a paper entitled "The Rule of Law".

On the fourth day, the government delegation presented a second proposal entitled "Terrorism and Extremism". On the fifth day, all proposals and amendments were discussed. Of course, the order and number of proposals in the next round of meetings -- not scheduled yet - will be maintained, as the opposition delegation will present two proposals, while the government delegation can present one. In the current rounds of discussion, it was noted that there is a significant difference between the vision of the opposition and the government, and despite the efforts of some international parties to spread an atmosphere of optimism, it is still too early to say "that the work has actually begun on the constitution that the Syrians people aspire to."

UN Resolution 2254 stipulates the drafting of a new constitution as it is adhered to by the Syrian Opposition delegation, and not a constitutional process to amend the current Syrian Constitution. According to the mandate of the Constitutional Committee, the purpose of constitutional reform is to implement Resolution 2254. Consequently, amending the Syrian Constitution of 2012 is not on the agenda, although the Constitutional Committee can benefit from previous Syrian constitutional models with the aim of drafting a new one.

AB: What is the role of the key players with military presence in the country -- USA, Russia, Turkey, and Iran? Are they just observers?

GM: The governments of Russia, the United States, the European Union and Turkey have shown their support for both the Constitutional Committee and for the efforts of the UN Special Envoy. These countries sent high-level envoys to accompany the work of this sixth session in Geneva, such as Russia for instance, where the special envoy of the Russian President met with the three delegations and urged them to continue and deal positively with the constitutional process. Representatives of the United States, the European Union and Britain also met with the opposition delegation.

AB: What are the Assyrian Democratic Organization's demands for a future Syrian constitution?

GM: I and my colleague, Abdelahad Astepho [1], were appointed representatives of the ADO, and as members of the (larger) Constitutional Committee by the Syrian Negotiating Committee. As you know, the meetings of the sixth round are limited to members of the [smaller] drafting-body, in which we are not represented. My presence in Geneva today is part of the Advisory Board (AINA 2021-02-24). formed by the European Center for Kurdish Studies, which includes representatives of the Kurdish National Council in Syria. Our presence in Geneva today is to keep pace with the work of the sixth round and to meet with representatives of the opposition and civil society in the Constitutional Committee, as well as to meet with representatives of countries in order to get support, mobilize and advance our demands.

The Assyrian Democratic Organization calls for building a secular democratic state that constitutionally recognizes the existence and national identity of the Assyrians as Syriac-Aramaic speaking people in Syria, as well as other nationalities, in order to guarantees all their national rights within the framework of the unity of Syria, a decentralized state that respects human rights, and is based on equal citizenship and full partnership among Syrians regardless of race, religion or gender.

AB: As observed, there are other Christians -- up to a dozen individuals - in the larger constitutional body, but ADO represents the Assyrians as an ethnic and indigenous group of the country. Are the various Assyrian churches represented in the constitutional body?

GM: It is true that the delegation of ADO represent a national cause specific to the Syriac-Aramaic speaking Assyrians, and there are other Christian members distributed among the three delegations, but they do not represent a national or ethnic cause other than Syrian, nor are they [dedicated] representatives of their churches.

AB: What kind of progress was expected from this sixth session and what have been actually achieved during this meetings?

GM: In this round, for the first time, we have moved from the stage of general discussions and exchange of accusations into the process of addressing constitutional contents and presenting a written framework pertinent to a new constitution. This meeting may not have produced expected outcomes, but this does not preclude the presentation of other constitutional contents and principles in the upcoming rounds. To achieve serious progress, we need time to converge views and build confidence building measures, and this cannot be achieved without international pressure and support.

AB: What are the points that are agreed upon? Is there any plan concerning further negotiations?

GM: Most likely, it will be agreed to hold two new drafting-committee rounds, before the end of 2021; we shall wait and see how things are progressing before we can judge whether there will be a move forward or not.

AB: Recently there have been reports that Assyrian villages in Khabur are experiencing repeated Turkish bombings. How is the situation there now?

GM: Some of the villages of Khabur valley, located west of Tel Tamar and close to the front lines between the Turkish-backed factions and the SDF, have been affected by the shelling, resulting from provocations from both sides, where the SDF are stationed in some of our people's villages in the valley.

The intensity of the bombardment escalated in the past two months, forcing the displacement of the rest of our people from these villages. The ADO condemned these attacks and called on all parties to safeguard civilians and not to turn our people's villages into a battle field. Recently, there have been attempts by Russia and USA to calm the situation in this region and other areas, in order to stop the escalation and the military build-up between forces loyal to Turkey and the SDF [2], which Turkey accuses of being an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party and a terrorist organization.

AB: Reports about the authoritarian actions of the Kurdish-led Self-Administration surface repeatedly. Two people were arrested very recently, you have twice been denied travel to Iraq. How are ADO relations with the Kurdish administration and how do the majority of Assyrians in the regions perceive it?

GM: The ADO deals with the Autonomous Administration as a de-facto authority. Unfortunately, this administration, in order to impose its control and hegemony, restricts public and political freedom, and uses repressive methods against its opponents, despite the existence of our parties [3] allied with it, the credibility of the administration is weak among our Assyrian people and other groups, as well as, the Kurds. In fact, ADO, through its peaceful approach, does not remain silent about these practices. On the contrary, it exposes them to the public and exerts political and media pressures to stop these practices.

[1] Abdelahad Astepho, a representative of the Assyrian Democratic Organization, is Vice President the Syrian Opposition groups.

[2] The People's Protection Units (Yekineyen Parastina Gel, or YPG) is the armed wing of the Democratic Union Party (Partiya Yekitiya Demokrat, or PYD), which Turkey accuses of being an extension of the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK). The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) are by setup as a multi-ethnic, multi-religious force, though dominated by Kurds.

[3] Syriac Union Party (SUP) and Assyrian Democratic Party (ADP)
by Paul Nguyen Hung

My priority will be to announce the Good News to indigenous villagers, educate children, and help people preserve their linguistic and cultural traditions, said Fr Guise Ma A Ca, 38.

Hanoi (AsiaNews)  Vietnams first ethnic Hmong priest was ordained in the Diocese of Hung Hoa on 13 October in a ceremony led by the dioceses apostolic administrator, Bishop Phero (Peter) Nguyen Van Vien.

The new priest, Giuse (Joseph) Ma A Ca, is 38 years old. Like him, 10 deacons from the Diocese of Hung Hoa were also ordained priests. The latter is the largest diocese in Vietnam, covering seven provinces and a part of metro Ha Noi (Hanoi).

Due to the pandemic, families and local authorities were unable to take part in the service.

Fr Ca was born in 1983 into a family that includes 11 brothers and sisters. He grew up in Sapa, a parish located in Lao Cai province, home to a large Hmong Christian community. The local parish priest, Fr Phero Pham Thanh Binh, accompanied him in his vocation.

In 2011 he entered the Saint Joseph Seminary in Ha Noi. In February 2020, after his ordination to the deaconate, Fr Ca said: My priority will be to announce the Good News to indigenous villagers, educate children, and help people preserve their linguistic and cultural traditions.

For Hmong people, the Church is not only a spiritual point of reference, but also a cultural one. The new priest has been assigned to ong Heo parish, where some 1,700 Hmong Catholics live.

Sister Maria Khu Thi Quynh Hoa, a Dominican nun from the Diocese of Bac Ninh, expressed joy for Fr Cas ordination. She is the first ethnic Hmong woman religious.

"We are happy and thank God, she said, noting that the presence of a priest of her own ethnic background will encourage many young people to follow their vocation and put themselves at the service of their communities.
by Nirmala Carvalho

A group of Hindu nationalists gave the principal of the Christ Jyoti Secondary School 15 days to install the statue of the goddess Saraswati. For Archbishop Machado, secretary general of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India, the constitutional guarantees of minorities should not be called into question.

New Delhi (AsiaNews)  Hindu nationalist activists yesterday targeted the Christ Jyoti Senior Secondary School, a Catholic school in Satna, a district in the northern Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, demanding that a statue of Saraswati, the Hindu goddess of knowledge, be placed within the school as soon as possible.

A group of young people from the Bajrang Dal[*] handed me a memorandum demanding that a statue of the goddess Saraswati be placed inside the school, principal Father Augustine Chittuparambil told AsiaNews.

According to the false accusations made against us, we allegedly removed the statue some months ago and now we have to remedy the situation, Fr Augustine said. These are absolutely false allegations. This is a Catholic school run by the Diocese of Satna. There have never been any altars or photos of Saraswati here, he added.

For the clergyman, certain vested political interests are behind the story. He noted that They gave me 15 days to install the statue. After that, they threatened to cause unrest and strikes.

Fr Augustine explained that the school has always served the community without caste or creed discrimination. Over 3,000 students are enrolled, most of them majority Hindu; only about 50 children are Christian, he said.

The Indian Catholic Church is standing by the school principal, and the principle of religious freedom in the school.

This type of action is aimed at intimidating minorities and putting political pressure, said Mgr Leo Cornelio, S.V.D., Archbishop emeritus of Bhopal. We must take a clear position and appeal to the country's authorities to respect the constitutional rights of minorities.

Archbishop Felix Machado of Vasai agrees. The image of our country must not be tarnished on the global stage by religious claims of this type, said the prelate, speaking to AsiaNews.

We live in the third millennium and there are constitutional guarantees that should not be called into question, added the prelate who is also general secretary of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India (CBCI).

The Catholic Church is providing exemplary service in the field of education and healthcare, serving the community, regardless of caste or creed, he said.

As a scholar of Hinduism, the prelate has deep respect for this religion. For this reason, he is saddened by the behaviour of certain militants who are misguided about their religion.

This is a time to talk and to listen to each other; dialogue is the only way to go forward.

[*] Hindu nationalist organisation.
Emperor Naruhito's granddaughter will renounce her imperial status and leave for the United States next month. The wedding, originally scheduled for 2018, had been postponed due to a financial issue involving the groom's mother.

Tokyo (AsiaNews/Agencies) - Princess Mako, granddaughter of Japanese Emperor Naruhito, today married her fiance Kei Komuro after years of controversy and discussions over the financial situation of the groom's mother.

As of tomorrow, the princess will no longer be a princess, as female members of the imperial family are not allowed to maintain royal status if they decide to marry an ordinary citizen. The soon-to-be ex-princess is finalizing preparations to move with her new groom to the United States, where Komuro works in a law firm. Since members of the royal family do not hold passports, the princess has applied for her own in recent days as an ordinary citizen; she is expected to leave for New York within the next month.

Crown Prince Fumihito, Mako's father, has banned the traditional ceremonies usually held for members of the royal household, pandering to the opinion of the majority of the Japanese population.

It was rumored that Komuro's mother had borrowed 4 million yen (30,250 euros) from her ex-boyfriend, which she then never repaid. In April, Komuro had submitted a 28-page report explaining the origin of the money (which was allegedly a donation) and proposing to pay his mother's ex-boyfriend to resolve the matter. The princess also waived the lump sum payment given to royal members when they leave the family.

The princess's relationship, since it was announced in 2017, immediately met with controversy from the Japanese population, to the point that Mako was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. Due to the "strong sense of anxiety" the princess did not welcome direct questions from journalists upon leaving the royal residence at 10 this morning. Mako, wearing a light green dress and clutching a bouquet of flowers, bowed several times before her parents, Fumihito and Princess Kiko, and hugged her sister Kako before leaving the residence for good.

The newlyweds saw each other for the first time last week, after separating in 2018, when Komuro had left to go study law at Fordham University in New York. Graduating in May this year, Komuro returned to Japan in September, but was criticized in the media for showing up with a ponytail, which he promptly cut off before meeting the princess' parents last week.

Komuro and Mako had met at International Christian University in Tokyo when they were still students in 2012. They were supposed to get married in November 2018, but the wedding had been postponed due to financial issues involving his mother.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

The two young women were found and returned to their families. They fled to escape the condition of submission imposed by their relatives. Tatar women are freer than Caucasian women, given in marriage at 16-17 and denied access to an education.

Moscow (AsiaNews) - The story of two 20-year-old girls who secretly fled from the Russian republic of Dagestan to Kazan, capital of Tatarstan, to escape the pressure of their relatives has sparked uproar throughout the country.

After discovering their hideout, the authorities handed them over to one of the two families. The two young women, as stated by some human rights activists on Idel.Realii, denounced "were not allowed to study and work, but had to sit at home under the control of a husband or parents."

The epsidoe dates to October 18 and has triggered a debate in the following days across Russia about the status of women in Muslim-majority federal territories, and whether an "Islamic feminism" is possible.

In Tatarstan, and in the nearby Ural republic of Bashkortostan (two areas with a population of Tatar-Mongolian origin) women are used to leading a very active lifestyle, participating freely in all dimensions of social life. Against the background of these realities, however, the situation in Dagestan, a North-Caucasian republic overlooking the Caspian Sea, where women are traditionally very submissive, is striking.

Between the Uralic and Caucasian areas there is not an excessive distance, less than a thousand kilometers, which for Russia is an almost proximity, yet they seem two different worlds in the conception of women and family relations. Several Russian intellectuals, Islamologists and writers have tried to answer this question.

Entrepreneur and blogger Naila Akhmadeeva, a native of Kazan, believes that the Tatar women's spirit of initiative comes from their history and upbringing. At the time of Tatar rule over the Russians, which ended in the mid-16th century with the very conquest of Kazan by Ivan the Terrible, Tatar women outnumbered the men and became accustomed to doing the heaviest jobs. Men had largely died in the fighting, and their children were raised by their mothers, creating a male dependence on women.

"In our country, men are not used to making decisions," Naila says. "I myself learned everything from my mother, and I raised my family by inculcating in females the sense of 'running ahead of the locomotive,' according to a Tatar saying. It was only later that I realized this was incorrect, and I urged my husband to take matters into his own hands."

In Chechnya, Dagestan, Azerbaijan, and other regions of the Caucasus, women are used to remaining under the protection of men, as Akhmadeeva explains, insisting that "it must be explained to men that their wives should not be passive and illiterate." When women in these areas behave too freely, husbands and parents are admonished in this way, "You see, your wife is walking around Kazan."

Writer Gulnara Ghinjatullina, who is of Dagestani origin but lives in Irkutsk, Siberia, recently published the book "My Salafist Sister," which recounts the many letters she received about the oppression of women in Dagestan. Visiting Kazan, Gulnara sees "how strong Muslim women are here, free and autonomous, I am encouraged by them." According to the author, it can be said that in Tatarstan the institution of women "abystaj" (in Tatar, the wives of mullahs, educated women) is placed at the same level as imams, when the woman can be the leader of the community.

Dagestani girls are normally given in marriage around the age of 16-17, without having received any education, and never having experienced independent life. Ghinjatullina urges, however, not to generalize too much: "Even in Dagestan [the situation] depends on the country and the family context, which is not always so oppressive." After all, in the Dagestan republic different ethnic groups live together, such as the avartsy, darghintsy, tabarasantsy and others.

Dagestani Islamologist and ethnologist Akhmet Jarlykanov, a member of the Academy of Historical Sciences, believes that the difference in the conception of women in Islam depends on several factors, from different "maskhab" (theological-legal schools) to historical development and various ethnic traditions. "Now the important thing is that the two girls brought back from Kazan remain alive," Jarlykanov comments. "Perhaps this story will be an important lesson for everyone. The state should not interfere, as long as no crimes are committed, but all of society must react."
Officially, the cleric was taken away on "vacation". He is often subjected to brainwashing to push him to join the "official" church, controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. Targeted on the eve of the month of the dead. Persecuted like Msgr Lin Xili, first bishop of Wenzhou.

Rome (AsiaNews) - Chinese authorities yesterday seized Msgr. Shao Zhumin, bishop of Wenzhou (Zhejiang). AsiaNews has learned this from sources on the ground who relay that the bishop was officially taken away "on vacation".

In a message, Chinese Catholics ask for prayers for the kidnapped bishop: "Pray that the Lord will give him confidence and courage, that he will not be demoralized by what happened; pray also that he will remain healthy and whole, under the guidance of Christ, so that he may return to us as soon as possible to shepherd his flock; let us pray together.

It is not the first time the police have arrested Msgr. Shao, making him disappear for months. The authorities regularly subject him to "brainwashing" sessions to make him accept the directives of the "patriotic" religious bodies, linked to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The Bishop of Wenzhou is recognized by the Pope, but not by the Party, which claims to exercise its control over all religious activities.

The kidnappings of Bishop Shao are almost scientific. They always occur on the eve of important periods in the life of the Catholic communities: Christmas, Easter, the Assumption and now November, the month of prayer for the dead (in Chinese tradition, Qingming, the remembrance of the ancestors, is instead celebrated in spring).

In November many masses are celebrated for the dead, accompanied by meetings, rosaries and prayers. In Zhejiang the percentage of Christians is over 10%. The faithful of Wenzhou are very zealous, and every year at this time they go to the cemetery where Msgr. James Lin Xili (), the first local bishop, rests. Ordained in 1992 by Pope John Paul II, Msgr. Lin was an "underground" bishop, not recognized by the Chinese regime. In 1999, the authorities arrested him and then kept him under control until his death in 2009.

In past years, authorities have blocked the entrance to Wenzhou's cemetery with iron barriers to prevent Catholic believers from gathering; this year they directly took Msgr. Shao away. The Party-mandated "New Regulations on Religious Activities," which went into effect in February 2018, only allow activities (including theological schools) that are held in places that are registered and controlled by the government. Religious personnel can only perform their functions if they adhere to the "official" Church and submit to the CCP.

The signing in 2018, and renewal in October 2020, of the Sino-Vatican Agreement on the Appointment of Bishops has not stopped the persecution of Chinese Catholics, especially unofficial ones. In addition to the case of Msgr. Shao, there is that of Msgr. Jia Zhiguo, placed under house arrest. Then there are bishops who have had water, electricity and gas cut off in their homes, such as Msgr. Guo Xijin; and bishops subjected to political sessions such as Msgr. Zhang Weizhu.
Opponents, such as two Baltimore County NAACP chapters and the ACLU, say the plan does not keep up with changing demographics  about half of the county electorate is now people of color and 30% are Black  and are asking for at least one additional district to have a majority Black population.
We celebrate Howard Countys RWJF Culture of Health Prize award, knowing how important it is that our community works together to honor and celebrate human diversity, the natural environment and each persons need to feel supported by and connected to the place they call home, Chiara DAmore, executive director of the Community Ecology Institute, wrote in an email.
There was his work, as a state senator and then as attorney general, against the cash bail system for criminal defendants. Maryland had thousands of people in jail because they were poor, not because they were dangerous or a flight risk. People would get charged with a minor crime, Frosh says, and a judge would say, OK, $2,500  which means you pay a bail bondsman $250  and youre out until trial. Problem was, there were thousands of people who couldnt scrape together $250 to get out of jail, go to work and take care of their family. The judiciary passed a new rule that said to every judge, If you are going to impose a financial condition for someones release before trial you must, as a matter of due process, determine if they can meet that condition. And then I had to fight off the bail bondsmen in the legislative session that followed.  There are thousands fewer people in jail [today] than there were four or five years ago.
Thats the real problem. No one wants to talk about racism and where it came from and how we as a nation could ever have arrived at a plea as desperate as asking to recognize that Black Lives Matter, because it doesnt feel good. No one wants to take a critical look because it would reveal their own responsibility  not for history, but for the current state of race relations, which makes me feel bad most days.
Whenever there are present or imminent vacancies, the governor will post listings online in search of applicants who will then be reviewed by the Appellate Courts Judicial Nominating Commission, an appointed team tasked with vetting the candidates. The commission then makes a recommendation to the governor, who will then choose who to appoint to the seat afterward.
Marie-Elena studied creative writing, art, and photography at University of Nebraska at Omaha, graduating with a BA in Studio Art -Visual Media. She moved to California from Nebraska in 2019 and is happy to call Calaveras County her home.

Comment Policy Calaveras Enterprise does not actively monitor comments. However, staff does read through to assess reader interest. When abusive or foul language is used or directed toward other commenters, those comments will be deleted. If a commenter continues to use such language, that person will be blocked from commenting. We wish to foster a community of communication and a sharing of ideas, and we truly value readers' input.
Elder Nana Anastasia Facebook

Elder Nana Anastasia, 77, congregational chairperson of Presbyterian Church Ntamulung and Mezam Presbytery Chairperson has regained her freedom after a night in separatist captivity, the PCC has said.

She was whisked into captivity Sunday, October 24, 2021, by militiamen fighting for an independent state they call Southern Cameroons or Ambazonia.

Early Tuesday morning, the PCC said Elder Anastasia Nana had been freed. It is not known if a ransom was paid to secure her release.

Elder Anastasia Nana the Mezam Presbytery Chairperson and PC Ntamulung Congregational Chairperson who was abducted on Sunday 24th October 2021 by Ambazonian fighters while on duty at the PC Ntamulung church compound was released yesterday Monday, the PCC said in a statement on its official Facebook page. She will regain her residence today. While such terror meted on the population and God's people are condemned, we want to thank all who stood by us at this difficult moment and went down on their knees to pray for her release. May God grant her the strength to heal from this traumatic experience. Never again should this happen to any of God's children!

Some Christians of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon (PCC) say the elder in Gods vineyard was dragged into captivity from the church compound on Sunday.

Elder Nana Anastasia had played a central role in the induction and institution into service of six church officials at a high-level church service celebrated by Rev. Massok Emmanuel, the Secretary Committee of the Ministry of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon.

After the service, the faithful had moved into the Multipurpose Hall next to the PC Ntamulung Church House. The congregational chairlady was in her car parked not far from the hall when five militiamen surrounded and whisked her away into captivity.

Reports suggest that the militiamen forced Elder Nana Anastasia at gunpoint to oblige to their orders.

Elder Nana Anastasia is said to be the Proprietor of Providence Bilingual Nursery and Primary School located in the Ndamukong Bamenda III Subdivision, Mezam Division of the North-West Region.

It is not known if the abduction is connected with the separatist school-boycott agenda that saw the light of day in November 2016.

An online campaign demanding the liberation of Elder Nana Anastasia was launched by Christians of the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon and other people of goodwill.

"This is unacceptable, release the Mezam Presbytery Chairperson! Release the PC Ntamulung Congregational Chair! Release this mother!" read one of the flyers making rounds on social media.

Calls for the liberation of Elder Nana have fortunately yielded.

Militiamen in Bali Subdivision, fighting for an independent state of Southern Cameroons or Ambazonia, had outlawed all activities of the PCC blaming the Moderator for failing to indict state forces following the August 22 incident at Presbyterian Church Ntanfoang that left Rev. Voma Simon Montoh injured and Grace Titalabit death.

The militia, named Buffalos of Bali, under the command of self-styled General Grand Pa, is said to have planted an improvised explosive device near Presbyterian Church Ntanfoang on August 22 targeting the military. When the IED exploded with the passage of state forces, a gunfire exchange with militiamen led to the death of a female Christian of the PCC by the name of Grace Titalabit. Rev. Voma Simon Montoh was injured.

The separatists had since lifted the ban on the PCC but the church and its Christians appear to be targeted by militiamen.
Francis-Gibson originally broached the idea of the finder in January. Her organization partnered with Forma Therapeutics in Boston. The finder was launched in October during the organizations national convention, held virtually. A marketing campaign will follow soon, she said. An app for IOS and Android also is scheduled to be launched later this year, she added.
At the BWI site, the initial cells for cell and gene therapies come frozen in vials, and more cells are grown in flasks and later in 2,000-liter bioreactors, which look a lot like the stainless steel fermenters used in breweries. When the concentration of cells is high enough, the cells are then merged into inactivated viruses, called viral vectors, that act as the delivery device into people.
But Snyders attorneys Arnold Weiner, Stuart Cherry and Devon Harman said in a new filing Monday that the cases are nothing alike. Avenatti had taken information from a client, which was damaging to that client, and tried to use it to get money from Nike. His client had no idea of the effort, and it did not advance the clients interests.
Baltimore Countys charter requires that council members live in the district that they represent for two years before and during their entire term in office. If any council member moves their residence outside the councilmanic district in which they lived during the time of their election, the charter says, their office shall be forthwith vacated.
Its not yet clear what the scope of the commissions work will be. The commission may assess how the county appoints members of other commissions, Antoine said. She pointed to the countys redistricting commission, which included just one Black male and one white female on a five-member board.
For three decades, Rick is one of the people who go to tell our story, and has shaped the way young reporters will tell the story, what will become the recorded history of Anne Arundel and Annapolis, Buckley said. Thank you for telling your stories and holding us  all of us  accountable.
The investigation is ongoing. Police encourage people to call the Anne Arundel County Police Homicide Unit at 410-222-4731. People who want to remain anonymous can call the Anne Arundel County Police Tip Line at 410-222-4700 or Metro Crime Stoppers at 1-866-7LOCKUP or Download P3Tips APP and Submit Your TIP or submit by web at www.metrocrimestoppers.org.
Defense attorneys said an undercover FBI agent who visited Lemley and Mathews at their Delaware apartment nine days before the rally tried to cajole them into developing a plan for Virginia. The defense lawyers said the two men decided instead to go meet other members of The Base in Michigan on the weekend before the Virginia rally.
Maryland lawmakers are expected to give serious consideration to marijuana legalization during their 2022 General Assembly session. Legalization has been considered before, but lawmakers havent yet sorted out the myriad details that would go along with it, such as who would get licenses to grow and sell it, what the tax rate would be and how to adjust criminal laws.
It actually is a lot more than we ever got in one go, Deputy Health Secretary Jinlene Chan said. So we believe that getting that amount early on in the state will actually help get those initial groups of kids and their parents who want to get their vaccinations as soon as possible.
Thousands of people who joined the anti-coup protest were fired upon by the Sudanese military resulting in the death of at least seven people while injuring 140 people.

Thousands took to the streets in protest in the capital, Khartoum, and its twin city of Omdurman after Sudan's military seized power from a transitional government. A health official said at least seven were killed by gunfire, reported Al Jazeera.

The Forces of Freedom and Change, Sudan's main opposition coalition, called for civil disobedience and protests across the country and demanded that the transitional military council transfer power back to the civilian government.

The security forces arrested interim Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other senior officials early on Monday morning.

The leader of the takeover, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, dissolved the military-civilian Sovereign Council that had been set up to guide the country to democracy following the overthrow of longtime leader Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising two years ago.

Al-Burhan, who is also the head of the power-sharing governing council, declared a state of emergency across the country, saying the armed forces needed to ensure safety. He promised to hold elections in July 2023 and hand over to an elected civilian government then, reported Al Jazeera.

"What the country is going through now is a real threat and danger to the dreams of the youth and the hopes of the nation," he said.

Meanwhile, the governments of the United States, the United Kingdom, and Norway on Monday night issued a statement expressing deep concern about the situation, condemning the suspension of democratic institutions and calling for the release of those arrested.

"The actions of the military represent a betrayal of the revolution, the transition, and the legitimate requests of the Sudanese people for peace, justice and economic development," the so-called Troika countries said in a joint statement.

Hamdok, an economist and former senior UN official who was appointed as a technocratic prime minister in 2019, was moved to an undisclosed location after he refused to issue a statement in support of the coup, the information ministry said.

Sudan's central bank employees said they went on an immediate strike in rejection of the military coup, the Sudanese information ministry wrote on its page on Facebook, reported Al Jazeera.

Speaking to Al Jazeera, Hala al-Karib, a Sudanese activist for women's rights in the Horn of Africa, said that Sudan was going through "very grim moments in its history" as it stands at "a crossroads".

She called on the international community to pressure the military to respect the Constitution and agreements with the civilian council.

"The military has dishonoured its agreement with the civilian government by detaining the prime minister and several cabinet ministers," said al-Karib. "The Sudanese people don't know if they are safe or not."

(ANI)

Also Read: Biden administration announces new COVID-19 international air travel rules
Clay Center, KS (67432)

Today

Intervals of clouds and sunshine in the morning with more clouds for later in the day. High near 60F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low 34F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
For all the tense and passionate debates that have surrounded Bidens agenda, how many Americans of either party know whats in the legislation? As Democrats should have learned from their prolonged battle to pass the Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare, all the benefits of BBB have been poll-tested as popular among voters. But first, they have to know thats whats in the bill.
We struggled through the pandemic, and we hope the pandemic is almost over, but this lawsuit is just driving me crazy, Lao told the Tribune. How can I handle hundreds of thousands of dollars that I may need to pay?
Sahl became famous in 1953 at San Franciscos hungry i (the i stood for intellectual), the perfect place for a comedian of his type. The city was a meeting ground for beatniks and college activists, and they crowded into the tiny club to hear someone who spoke to their disdain for the status quo. Word spread quickly about the young comedian with the distinctive style. Soon Sahl was earning $7,500 a week at nightclubs across the nation and appearing on television with Steve Allen and Jack Paar. He made the cover of Time magazine in 1960 and was profiled in The New Yorker.
The horror craft on display is shockingly gory, the dark and dim cinematography by Florian Hoffmeister almost punishingly creepy. Thomas, as Lucas, is astonishing in a role that makes you worry for his own well-being, and while Russell and Plemons are fantastically embodied actors, they remain in the same dour register for the entire film. But Antlers is such a slow burn that at times it grinds to a halt. This dark and dreary monster movie is indeed horrific, but its also undoubtedly a downer, for more reasons than it was likely intended.
When I last saw Butler, a Chicago star of the highest wattage, she was working on a stage on the back of a trailer in Abbott Park on Chicagos South Side in September 2020. In the middle of her performance, phones pinged with the news of the death of Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a justice on the Supreme Court of the United States. That made the message of the civil rights leader seem all the more imperative, especially when Butler came back out at the end of the show and led the audience in a prayer. Some weeks later, she took the touring version of the show to the banks of the Potomac River, finding large crowds.
Cheri Gypin, of Boise, was in the mall with a friend where they walk for an hour three or four times a week. She said she heard several large bangs, but thought something had fallen from the ceiling. Then about 60 people, including families pushing strollers, came running at them, some of them shouting that there was an active shooter.
Pentagon spokesman John Kirby declined to provide details when asked about the report during a news conference Monday. He called it a complex, coordinated and deliberate attack and said the U.S. has seen similar ones before from Shia militia groups that are backed by Iran. But he would not go into specifics and said he had no update on the munitions used in the attack.
The loss of so many people of color on the Atlanta schools staff has made many students feel less comfortable there, according to Katrina Callaway, 19, a senior. In the past, she said, she and her friends have confided in teachers who they can relate to about their problems, home lives and friends, but now students dont feel like theres anyone they can open up to, she said.
We took this job knowing the risks, said Edvie Boursiquot, 41, an officer with the rapid-reaction force who joined the police 14 years ago. But we need to go to work knowing that we have a government that supports us, that it is looking out for us. That we are given what we need to fight the gangs, better arms, better motorcycles.
Texas has had to defend redrawn district lines in court since the Voting Rights Act took effect, but this is the first time since a U.S. Supreme Court ruling said Texas and other states with a history of racial discrimination no longer need to have the Justice Department scrutinize the maps before they are approved.
The most updated guidance from the city advised that unvaccinated people get tested one to three days before leaving for their trip. Upon return, they should get a COVID-19 test within three to five days as well as quarantine for seven days. If they choose not to get tested, they should quarantine for 10 days.
When I did it in my former district, we had a year to ramp up. And to this day, theyre doing it every week. Here, what weve done is weve ramped up enough so that at least we can get the children that are now consented and then unvaccinated staff. Unfortunately, to try to do everybody, all staff, again, it just would take a lot more time.
Day, 25, was last seen Aug. 24. His family in Danville and a faculty member reported him missing after he did not show up for class for several days,. His car was found Aug. 26 concealed in a wooded area in Peru, in LaSalle County.
Asked why he didnt have the gun in a case or take it out the back door where he had gone in, OShea told police that he couldnt find the case, and that the front door was closer to the basement where he got the gun, police said. Asked why he had the dog in the car to go to the firing range, OShea told them that he was going to walk the dog, then bring it in before going to the range, police said.
I dont think any of us ever felt that he didnt want to not talk to us. I dont think that feeling ever hit any of us at all, she said. Its just something is preventing him from contacting us, we just didnt know what that something could be.
An Illinois House committee also has a hearing scheduled Tuesday afternoon on a proposal that would specify that the states Health Care Right of Conscience Act, cited in the federal lawsuit, does not apply to vaccine mandates and other measures aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus.
He cited one example in Nevada, where days after the November election, Trump campaign lawyers claimed that change of address information indicated 3,000 of the states voters had been ineligible. Reporters, though, found that many of those people were military members deployed away from home. (Ives said her tally stripped out voters with military or foreign service addresses.)
Spann testified Tuesday that he was in prison on a parole violation in 1998 when a war broke out between his faction of the gang and rivals who controlled territory a few blocks away. He said he decided to stay out of it because he had family on both sides. Later, he said he left the gang altogether and went on his own.
The economically secure can pump social and financial capital into new startups, fall back on savings and flit between opportunities  but do we all have this luxury? History shows us that freedom comes with new risks. Study after study has warned us of the decreased earnings and growing insecurity of gig work, as the most economically marginalized are barely earning a minimum wage.
The states Health Care Right of Conscience Act was intended for health care workers to be able to avoid certain health care issues and services for moral or religious reasons. But some courts have ruled in favor of employees who cited the right of conscience exemption to avoid testing, masking or vaccine mandates. The Pritzker administration has said the law is being interpreted incorrectly.
Our most vulnerable residents, such as those veterans who cant live . . . on their own and adults living with developmental disabilities, have no choice but to live among workers at these facilities, Pritzker said Monday during a news conference on pediatric coronavirus vaccinations. They deserve the safest possible homes that we can provide, and that includes the protection of a vaccinated community. It is the most effective infection control measure that we have.
The Zhuhai Traditional Chinese Orchestra, one of the youngest orchestras of the country, is performing in Beijing to showcase the beauty of Guangdong folk music.

According to Chen Weian, general manager of event organizer Zhuhai Performing Arts Group, the performances celebrate the 22nd anniversary of the return of Macao to the motherland as well as show the dynamic culture of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

The series of shows kicked off with a concert, titled The Music of the Greater Bay, performed under the baton of conductor Li Fubin, also a professor at the Xinghai Conservatory of Music in Guangzhou. The concert, held on Oct 20 at the Tianqiao Performing Arts Center in Beijing, offered audiences songs adapted from the folk music of Guangdong province as well as original songs with distinctive Lingnan (Southern China) regional culture, such as Cantonese opera, composed by Li.

According to Zhang Tianyu, president of Zhuhai Traditional Chinese Orchestra, young musicians with an average age of under 26 from all over China joined in the orchestra when it was launched two years ago as a main part of Zhuhai Performing Arts Group.

"Those young musicians have learned and fell in love with Guangdong music. 80 percent of them don't speak Cantonese but during the past two years, they've learned to sing Guangdong folk songs in Cantonese. With the shows in the capital, we want to introduce and showcase the beauty of Guangdong music," Zhang said, adding the concert, The Music of the Greater Bay, was first performed in Guangzhou in September 2020 and was warmly received by audiences.

He added with the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, the world's longest cross-sea bridge, having opened to the public in October 2018, people are more connected which allows culture like music to be enjoyed by a wider audience.

On Oct 24, pieces by renowned Chinese composer He Zhanhao were performed in a concert held at Peking University in Beijing to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the birth of the Communist Party of China. The composer, 88, is known for his Chinese violin concerto Butterfly Lover sand took the baton to perform with the orchestra in Zhuhai in July 2019. According to Zhang, Zhu is also invited to be the orchestra's artistic consultant.

On Oct 28 and 29 a symphonic suite titled Bougainvillea and Lotus Flowers featuring 14 individual music pieces will be performed at Shunyi Grand Theater in Beijing and the National Center for the Performing Arts in Beijing. With lyrics by Zhu Hai and music by Meng Weidong and Li Fubin, the symphonic suite combines traditional Cantonese folk music, Cantonese opera and Western music.
Editor's note: A drama commemorating China's pioneer of modern literature, an exhibition highlighting international printmaking, and a children's play featuring 28 masterpieces through a fascinating journey  these are the events you won't want to miss this week.

1. Drama: 'A Madman's Diary'

Lu Xun's former residence in Shaoxing, east China's Zhejiang province. [Photo/Chinanews.com]

A staging of the drama, "A Madman's Diary," will conclude the Fifth Laoshe Theatre Festival, which began at Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center, Aug. 20, 2021. Adapted from Lu Xun's novel of the same name, the performance is helmed by Polish director Krystian Lupa and features well-known Chinese performers Wang Xuebing and Mei Ting. This year marks the 140th anniversary of the birth of Lu Xun, pen name of Zhou Shuren, the pioneer of modern Chinese literature.

Dates: Oct. 30-31

Venue: Beijing Tianqiao Performing Arts Center

2. 'A Journey Through Printmaking  International Printmaking Art Exhibition'

More than 100 works will be showcased at "A Journey Through Printmaking  International Printmaking Art Exhibition," organized by China Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA) and supported by LeRoy Neiman Center for Print Studies, Columbia University.

Dates: Oct. 20-Nov. 13

Venue: CAFA Art Museum

3. Chinese adaptation of children's play 'One Starry Night Out of the Blue'

This stage work for kids and families gives children a taste of 28 masterpieces by nine iconic artists including Van Gogh, Monet and Da Vinci, accompanied by live piano compositions from Mozart, Chopin, Debussy and more. "One Starry Night Out of the Blue" tells the story of Lena, a little girl who falls asleep while reading a book on classical paintings. What follows is Lena's fantastical journey through the world of art.

Dates: Oct. 29-31

Venue: National Center for the Performing Arts

Cultural events of the week: Oct. 18-24
You are here: China

China Post issued a commemorative stamp Monday in honor of the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat at the United Nations.

The company plans to release 7 million stamps bearing the commemorative design, each with a face value of 1.2 yuan (about 19 U.S. cents).

The stamp's design features the image of China's national flag fluttering in front of the UN headquarters complex, with white doves symbolizing peace, friendship and unity.

Digital version of the stamp can be viewed via social media platform Weixin, with the help of augmented reality technology.
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The Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) has called for equal distribution of COVID-19 vaccines worldwide during a speech at the World Health Summit in Berlin.

"The triumph of the vaccines -- developed and brought to market in record speed -- is being undone by the tragedy of an unequal distribution. Three quarters of all vaccines have gone to high- and upper-middle-income countries. Vaccine nationalism and hoarding are putting us all at risk," Antonio Guterres said at the Summit, which opened on Sunday.

Health systems globally have been shattered by the COVID-19 pandemic, he said. "Our commitment to achieving health for all has never been more important."

Around 6,000 experts from around the world are expected to participate in the World Health Summit, which will continue until Tuesday. Due to the pandemic, it is also held as an online event. The main theme of the Summit is "lessons learnt from COVID-19," such as equal access to vaccines.

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), said that the pandemic could be controlled, but "requires far greater supply and sharing of vaccines by governments and manufacturers to the world's most vulnerable countries, driven by a commitment to equity and solidarity."

"The damage caused by COVID-19 has underscored the need for stronger global health architecture, and high-level political commitment, through a global compact or agreement to prevent and respond to pandemics," he said.

Germany's Minister of Health Jens Spahn stressed that COVID-19 had deeply shaped the lives of all citizens in the world over the last one and a half years. "Let us make use of the lessons we had to learn in a painful way," he said.
You are here: World

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Two people were killed on Monday in the central Ugandan district of Mpigi after an explosion on a bus traveling from the capital Kampala to the western district of Bushenyi, a police spokesperson said.

Faridah Nampiima, a traffic police spokesperson, told Xinhua by telephone that the two people died on the spot while several others were injured.

"We don't know the cause of the explosion but it happened at 5 p.m. local time. The bus was traveling from the capital Kampala toward the western region," Nampiima said.

"Our teams are on the scene of explosion investigating the cause of the incident," Nampiima added.

Fred Enanga, police spokesperson, said in a statement that a team of bomb experts has been dispatched to the bus explosion scene.

"The scene has been cordoned off pending a thorough assessment and investigation by the bomb experts," the statement said.

Ugandan police have confirmed that there was a bomb blast in the capital Kampala on Saturday, leaving two people dead and others injured.

Police on Monday urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious characters.
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During his visit to Qatar at the invitation of Qatari Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on October 25 and 26, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi will meet the delegation of the Afghan Taliban's interim government in Doha, foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said Monday.

Qatar is an important country in the Middle East and the Gulf region, as well as China's important energy and economic partner in the region, the spokesperson said, adding the nation plays a unique role in the Afghan issue and other regional hotspot issues.

"Wang's visit will further promote the implementation of the consensus reached by the two heads of state on developing bilateral relations, deepen mutual political trust, strengthen pragmatic cooperation, and advance the strategic partnership between China and Qatar," he said.

The meeting in Doha between China and the Afghan Taliban is a continuation of their past exchanges, including the Tianjin meeting in July. It is also their first high-level meeting since the Afghan group's formation of a caretaker government, and the two sides will exchange opinions on the Afghan situation and issues of common concern, the spokesperson said.

The situation in Afghanistan has undergone fundamental change since August this year, and the Afghan people have ushered in a historic opportunity of independently deciding the country's future. Meanwhile, Afghans are also facing many difficulties and challenges, and urgently need external support, he said.

As a traditional friendly neighbor and cooperation partner of Afghanistan, China always promotes the positive development of the Afghan situation through dialogue and engagement, and helps Afghans tide over difficulties, he added.
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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday reaffirmed China's commitment to the path of peaceful development and win-win cooperation, and called on the world to uphold the authority and standing of the United Nations (UN) and practice true multilateralism.

Addressing a commemorative meeting marking the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat at the United Nations, Xi said China would always be a builder of world peace, a contributor to global development and a defender of the international order.

Five decades ago, the 26th Session of the UN General Assembly adopted, with an overwhelming majority, Resolution 2758, and restored all rights of the People's Republic of China in the United Nations.

"It was a victory for the Chinese people and a victory for people of the world," Xi said, adding that the past 50 years have witnessed China's peaceful development and its commitment and dedication to the welfare of all humanity.

Contributing to peace, development

The restoration of China's lawful seat at the United Nations marked a momentous event for the world and the United Nations. It came as the result of joint efforts of all peace-loving countries that stood up for justice in the world.

"It marked the return of the Chinese people, or one-fourth of the world's population, back to the UN stage," Xi said, stressing that the importance was significant and far-reaching for both China and the wider world.

Ruan Zongze, executive vice president of the China Institute of International Studies, said China's restoration of its legitimate seat at the United Nations means that the United Nations has truly become the most universal, representative and authoritative intergovernmental international organization, which is a milestone of historic importance for both the development of the United Nations and China's diplomatic history.

For these 50 years, the Chinese people have stood in solidarity and cooperation with people around the world and upheld international equity and justice, contributing significantly to world peace and development.

Since 1990, China has dispatched over 50,000 peacekeepers to nearly 30 UN peacekeeping missions. It is the second largest funding contributor to UN peacekeeping operations and has contributed more peacekeepers than any other permanent member of the Security Council.

China has also realized remarkable development and achieved a historic breakthrough of leaping from a country with relatively low productivity to the second largest economy in the world.

According to the World Bank's poverty line, poverty reduction in China represents 70 percent of the world's total, achieving the target set by the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development 10 years ahead of schedule.

"Peace and development are our common cause, equity and justice our common aspiration, and democracy and freedom our common pursuit," Xi said.

"We should vigorously advocate peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, which are the common values of humanity, and work together to provide the right guiding philosophy for building a better world."

"The more China develops, the better it will be for the United Nations. China can firmly support the United Nations to play a greater role in international affairs and continuously contribute to global peaceful development and progress," Ruan said.

Devoted to win-win results

Nowadays, the world is facing accelerated changes unseen in a century, while the force for peace, development and progress has continued to grow. Under such circumstance, Xi called on the world to choose cooperation over confrontation, openness over seclusion, and mutual benefit over zero-sum games.

"We should stay committed to mutual benefit and win-win results, and work together to promote economic and social development for the greater benefit of our people," Xi said.

Noting that China is committed to achieving common development, he stressed that China has always helped other developing countries and offered the world new opportunities through its own development.

"China's remarkable development is not only a boon to itself, but also to the region, particularly the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the world," said Phay Siphan, Cambodian government chief spokesman.

At the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly held last month, China proposed a Global Development Initiative with the hope that countries will work together to overcome the impacts of COVID-19 on global development, accelerate the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and build a global community of development with a shared future.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailed the initiative as being of great positive significance to promoting global equality, and a balanced and sustainable development, saying that the United Nations fully supports the initiative and is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in this regard.

Liu Meng, head of the Asia Pacific Networks of the UN Global Compact, said the initiative coordinated the differences and characteristics of countries at different development stages, and focused on the common challenges and problems faced by all countries.

"It will drive countries to build consensus, make joint efforts, and help promote win-win cooperation among them," Liu said.

Championing true multilateralism

In the speech, Xi urged the upholding of the UN's authority and standing, and practicing true multilateralism, as the world is confronted by regional disputes and global challenges such as terrorism, climate change, cybersecurity and biosecurity.

"Only with more inclusive global governance, more effective multilateral mechanisms and more active regional cooperation, can these issues be addressed effectively," Xi said.

"International rules can only be made by the 193 UN Member States together, and not decided by individual countries or blocs of countries. International rules should be observed by the 193 UN Member States, and there is and should be no exception," Xi stressed.

Natee Taweesrifuengfung, president of the Thailand-based Siam Think Tank, said as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has set a good example in improving the global governance system, staying true to the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, and upholding the central role of the United Nations in international affairs.

He added that China's commitment to working with the rest of the world toward a community with a shared future for mankind is a solid testament to how China endeavors to promote the improvement of the global governance system.

Xi also reaffirmed China's commitment to the United Nations and the world, saying China stands ready to work with all countries under the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits to explore new ideas and new models of cooperation and keep enriching the practice of multilateralism under new circumstances.

Guterres said China always persists in multilateralism and supports the UN course, and called on the international community to strengthen solidarity, uphold multilateralism, improve global governance, and achieve more fairness and justice.
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Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday stepped back from the threat to declare 10 Western ambassadors as "persona non grata" over their joint call for the release of a jailed activist businessman.

Speaking after a cabinet meeting, Erdogan welcomed a new statement by several Western embassies in Ankara, which noted that they abide by a diplomatic convention that stipulates not to interfere in a host country's internal affairs.

"Our intention is never to cause a crisis but to protect our honor, our pride, our sovereign rights. The new statement shows they have taken a step back from the slander against our country. They will be more careful now," the Turkish president said.

"It is the duty of the head of state to give the necessary response to this disrespect towards our judicial members," he stated.

The United States and several other embassies on Monday issued similar statements, while some of them retweeted a U.S. embassy tweet, saying they respected a UN convention that required diplomats not to interfere in the host country's domestic affairs.

The diplomatic crises erupted last week after the embassies of the United States, Germany, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden in Ankara made a joint statement on Oct. 18 for the release of Osman Kavala.

Erdogan on Oct. 21 threatened to expel the ambassadors of these 10 countries on the grounds that they interfere with Turkey's judiciary.

Kavala was acquitted in 2020 of charges related to nationwide Gezi protests in 2013. But his ruling was overturned and was combined with a probe into a coup attempt in 2016 on the accusation of spying.
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Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday met with Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, the acting deputy prime minister of the Afghan Taliban's interim government, in the Qatari capital of Doha.

During the meeting, Wang said that Afghanistan, now standing at a critical stage of transforming from chaos to governance, is currently facing a historic opportunity to truly master its own destiny, achieve reconciliation and tolerance, and advance national reconstruction.

At the same time, Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties, said Wang, adding that overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the international community.

Wang expressed his hope that the Afghan Taliban will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction, and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children.

The Chinese official also urged the Taliban to adopt a friendly policy toward its neighboring countries, and build a modern country that conforms to the wishes of the people as well as the trend of the times.

China always respects Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and supports the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and choose the development path, said Wang.

China, which has never interfered in the internal affairs of Afghanistan and never sought selfish gains or a sphere of influence, firmly pursues a friendly policy toward all the people of Afghanistan, and supports the efforts to restore stability and rebuild the country, the Chinese diplomat said.

Attaching importance to the humanitarian difficulties facing Afghanistan at present, China urges the United States and the West as a whole to lift sanctions, and calls on all parties to engage with the Afghan Taliban in a rational and pragmatic manner to help Afghanistan embark on a path of healthy development, Wang noted.

He expressed China's willingness to continue to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan within its capacity and work with the international community to help Afghanistan alleviate temporary difficulties and realize economic reconstruction as well as independent development.

Wang emphasized that the "East Turkestan Islamic Movement" (ETIM), an international terrorist organization listed by the UN Security Council, not only poses a real threat to China's national security and territorial integrity, but also jeopardizes the domestic stability and long-term stability in Afghanistan.

He said that he hopes and believes that the Afghan Taliban will make a clean break with the ETIM and other terrorist organizations, and take effective measures to resolutely crack down on them.

For his part, Baradar briefed Wang on the current situation in Afghanistan, which he said is under control and improving, with the governments at all levels being gradually established and government decrees being carried out effectively.

The Afghan interim government is working hard to meet the needs of the people, and will learn from its historical experience to take a development path in line with its national conditions, said Baradar.

It has taken and will continue to take inclusive measures to expand the representation of the regime, he said, citing that most officials and technocrats of the former government have stayed in office, and more talents of all ethnic groups will be recruited to participate in the state governance in the future.

Meanwhile, Baradar said that the Afghan Taliban is willing to strengthen the efforts to protect the rights and interests of women and children, and will not deprive them of the rights to education and work.

For now, women in medical institutions, airports and other places have resumed their work, and girls in primary and secondary schools in many provinces have returned to school, but they still face difficulties such as lack of facilities and funds, the Taliban official said.

Baradar expressed the hope that China and the international community will increase assistance to Afghanistan to help it overcome the humanitarian crisis and return to the right track of development.

He also expressed thanks to China, an important neighbor of Afghanistan, for its respect and friendliness shown to Afghanistan during the difficult times.

Pursuing a friendly policy toward China is the firm choice by the Afghan Taliban, which hopes to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields, he said.

The Afghan Taliban, which attaches great importance to China's security concerns, will resolutely honor its promise and never allow anyone or any force to use the Afghan territory to harm China, Baradar added.

During his stay in Doha, Wang will also meet with Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.
You are here: World

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The United States on Monday suspended 700 million U.S. dollars in economic aid to Sudan after the country's military forces arrested civilian leaders and officials.

"The United States condemns the actions taken overnight by Sudanese military forces," State Department spokesperson Ned Price said during a press briefing. "The arrest of civilian government officials and other political leaders, including Prime Minister (Abdalla) Hamdok, undermines the country's transition to democratic civilian rule."

"In light of these developments, the United States is pausing assistance from the $700 million in emergency assistance appropriations of economic support funds for Sudan," he added.

Price urged the military to immediately release all detained political actors, fully restore the civilian-led transitional government, and refrain from violence against protesters.

Earlier on Monday, Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan declared a state of emergency across Sudan, and dissolved the transitional sovereign council and the government.

The decision was made hours after Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, members of the Transitional Sovereignty Council's civilian component and several ministers were arrested by joint military forces.
You are here: World

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Chinese Vice Premier Liu He, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chief of the Chinese side of the China-U.S. comprehensive economic dialogue, held a video conversation with U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen on Tuesday morning.

The two sides conducted practical, candid, and constructive exchanges on macroeconomic situation and bilateral and multilateral cooperation.

The two sides agreed that as the world economic recovery is at a critical juncture, it is important for China and the United States to strengthen macro policy communication and coordination.

The Chinese side expressed concern over issues including the lifting of additional tariffs and sanctions by the U.S. side and fair treatment of Chinese enterprises.

The two sides also agreed to maintain communication.
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Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Tuesday said that China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries should expedite the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea (COC) negotiations and strive for its early conclusion.

Li made the remarks when attending the 24th China-ASEAN Summit. He said that peace in the South China Sea serves the common interest of China and ASEAN countries. Regional development is the shared aspiration of the two sides, and regional tranquility requires joint efforts.

Li noted that, over the past year, China and ASEAN have substantively resumed negotiations of the Single Draft COC Negotiating Text and made positive progress, despite the impact of COVID-19.

"Next year is the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC). China wishes to work with ASEAN countries to mark the occasion with commemorative activities," said Li.

He added the two sides should use it as an opportunity to expand practical maritime cooperation, expedite COC negotiations, and strive for its early conclusion to make the South China Sea a sea of peace, friendship and collaboration.


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Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance Files Suit Over Discrimination at University of Houston-Clear Lake

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance

Oct. 26, 2021

LAFAYETTE, Ind., Oct. 26, 2021 /Christian Newswire/ -- Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance files suit over discrimination at University of Houston-Clear Lake.

ADF represents Ratio Christi after university denied the group recognition based on its views.

University of Houston-Clear Lake excluded Ratio Christi because it requires its leaders to agree with its values and mission. Other organizations have leadership requirements but are recognized by the university. But when Ratio Christi applied for recognition as a registered student organization, the university rejected the application and revoked its invitation to the student organization fair because Ratio Christi's constitution requires its leaders to be Christians--not members of another faith or of no faith.

"College should be a time when students learn firsthand how the Constitution protects their right to express their opinion, as well as the opinions and views of those with whom they disagree, but that's not what's happening at the University of HoustonClear Lake," said ADF Legal Counsel Caleb Dalton. "Instead, the university singled out Ratio Christi and its members because of their Christian beliefs, denying them recognition and equal treatment among their peer groups. It's natural and expected that a Christian organization would require its leaders to be Christian; the university allows other organizations to have similar, commonsense leadership requirements. What we see here is university officials blatantly discriminating against Ratio Christi and banishing them from a fair, free exchange of ideas specifically because of their religious beliefs."

Unlike other groups at the university, the students of Ratio Christi cannot reserve space, invite speakers, or access the pool of funds they paid into that is reserved for student organizations, speakers, and events because the university has excluded Ratio Christi from Registered Student Organization status.

Dr. Corey Miller is President/CEO of Ratio Christi (RC), a Christian student ministry with chapters at many colleges and universities. RC exists to teach students how to explain and defend the Christian faith through history, science, and philosophy. Although the chapters allow access to all students, numerous schools have attempted to deny their chapter members the right to choose leaders in accordance with RC's Christian beliefs. Thus, protecting free speech and religious freedom on campus is vital to Ratio Christi.

Dr. Miller says, "It is astounding that so many universities fail to see their blatant discrimination in their unequal treatment of campus organizations. Universities have no right telling such organizations what their leaders can and cannot believe. For the pursuit of truth, universities should embrace rather than cancel viewpoint diversity."

ADF attorneys filed Ratio Christi at the University of HoustonClear Lake v. Khator in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Murphy Klasing of Weycer, Kaplan, Pulaski & Zuber, P.C. in Houston, one of nearly 3,500 attorneys allied with ADF, is serving as local counsel. Media representatives interested in the case may contact ADF Media Relations at (480) 444-0020 or media@adflegal.org. If interested in interviewing Dr. Corey Miller about Ratio Christi's ministry, reach him at 704-989-2752 or email info@ratiochristi.org.

SOURCE Ratio Christi Campus Apologetics Alliance

CONTACT: Dr. Corey Miller, 704-989-2752, info@ratiochristi.org

Related Links

https://ratiochristi.org
The Global UV Stabilizer Market Report, in its latest update, highlights the significant impacts and the recent strategically changes under the present socio-economic scenario. The UV Stabilizer industry growth avenues are deeply supported by exhaustive research by the top analysts of the industry. The report starts with the executive summary, followed by a value chain and Marketing channels study. The report then estimates the CAGR and Market revenue of the global and regional segments.

Base Year: 2020

Estimated Year: 2021

Forecast Till: 2027

The report classifies the market into different segments based on type and product. These segments are studied in detail, incorporating the market estimates and forecasts at regional and country levels. The segment analysis is helpful in understanding the growth areas and potential opportunities of the market.

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A special section is dedicated to the analysis of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the growth of the UV Stabilizer market. The impact is closely studied in terms of production, import, export, and supply.

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(USA, Canada, and Mexico) Europe (Germany, UK, France, Italy, Russia, Spain, Rest of Europe)

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(China, India, Japan, South Korea, Australia, South-East Asia, Rest of Asia-Pacific) Latin America (Brazil, Argentina, Peru, Chile, Rest of Latin America)

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The report "Non-Woven Glass Fiber Prepreg Market by Application (Wind Energy, Electronics, Automotive, Aerospace & Defense, and Others), and by Region (Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, and Rest of the World) - Global Forecast to 2021 ", The global non-woven glass fiber prepreg market is projected to reach USD 834.5 Million by 2021, at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2016 to 2021. Leading players are focused on entering new markets by launching technologically advanced and innovative products for wind energy, automotive, and aerospace & defense applications which is expected to drive the growth of the market in near future.

Browse 65 market data Tables and 42 Figures spread through 113 Pages and in-depth TOC on "Non-Woven Glass Fiber Prepreg Market by Application (Wind Energy, Electronics, Automotive, Aerospace & Defense, and Others), and by Region (Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America, and Rest of the World)

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Wind energy application segment has the largest share of the global non-woven glass fiber prepreg market

The wind energy segment of the non-woven glass fiber prepreg market is expected to witness significant growth in coming years. Wind energy capacity is increasing throughout the world. This market will keep on growing due to exhaustion of non-renewable resources. Growing concerns about the environment, especially in countries such as China and India, will lead to the growth of wind energy segment in these countries in coming years. The governments of European countries are also supporting the development of renewable and energy-efficient systems, which is supporting the growth of wind energy application.

Asia-Pacific was the largest market for global Non-woven glass fiber prepreg market in 2015, globally

Asia-Pacific was the largest market for non-woven glass fiber prepregs in 2015, owing to the increasing demand of non-woven glass fiber prepregs in developing economies such as India and China. China is the leading consumer of prepregs in the Asia-Pacific region.

Companies in this region are investing to develop the cost-competitive non-woven glass fiber prepregs. The extensive growth and innovation, along with the industry consolidations, is expected to drive the growth of Asia-Pacific non-woven glass fiber prepreg market.

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Key players operational in the non-woven glass fiber prepreg market include Owens Corning (U.S.), Saint-Gobain Adfors (France), Jushi Group Co., Ltd (China), and others.

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The staff of the Litchfield Jazz Festival is presenting the fourth installment of their free virtual concert series for April.
The incident with the officer began at about 1:30 a.m. when she was on a directed patrol in her marked police cruiser in the parking lot of 1921 Main St., about a mile away from the scene of Hays death hours earlier, police said. A man approached her car and, believing he was intoxicated or in need of medical help, the officer requested an ambulance to the parking lot.
You see it at all age levels but this population, 18 to 25, has been profoundly impacted by the pandemic, Bronin said. Youve seen increased battles with addiction, youve sees all the effects of isolation and disruption as a result of this pandemic, and as Rob said, we are seeing seriously exacerbated mental health challenges.
Matt OConnor, a spokesman for the coalition of Middletown school unions, said Tuesday that the group has not shared any of the anonymous complaints with the media. We have not wavered from that position out of respect for those who shared their stories of harassment and intimidation and in the hope that an independent investigation will spur long overdue corrective actions.
Full-strength shots made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech already are recommended for everyone 12 and older but pediatricians and many parents are clamoring for protection for younger children. The extra-contagious delta variant has caused an alarming rise in pediatric infections -- and families are frustrated with school quarantines and having to say no to sleepovers and other rites of childhood to keep the virus at bay.
Often the development we have seen has come at great cost to New Britain taxpayers, either through public dollars spent on on street and sidewalk improvements or through tax breaks for big, out-of-state developers  usually both, he said during the campaign.
Beyond diplomacy and direct humanitarian assistance, there are other steps the president can take to support women and girls. At least 80% of those fleeing the country in recent months have been women and children. We already have a resettlement mechanism for Afghans who aided the U.S. government in the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program; however, most principal applicants are men. In parallel, we must also generously resettle women and girls, whether through the State Departments authorization of priority refugee status for Afghans, or through a special humanitarian parole category  an idea endorsed by dozens of senators from both parties.
Crime is certainly the most immediate issue, although fighting racist educational material pushed by the Virginia Department of Education is a close second. There are two ways we need to address crime: using proactive and reactive measures. We must be proactive in preventing crime from happening by supporting community initiatives like after-school programs and community centers which provide guidance and alternatives to at-risk individuals. We must also support reactive measures to address crime once it has happened, and that means supporting our law enforcement. I will vote to protect qualified immunity and provide our law enforcement with the resources they need to protect our communities. We must also protect students, so I will vote to make misdemeanors (e.g., sexual assault) harder to hide by mandating that schools report misdemeanors against students to law enforcement.
If re-elected, what would be your top priority and how would you get it done? My top priority would be legislation that constrains the power of the governor to issue executive orders for long periods of time. Take, for example, a Friday night order that says that restaurants have to go to cut capacity in half by the next Monday, creating and scrambling and panic for the restaurants. I dont want to see any governor, regardless of their political affiliation, have that level of sway over over the Commonwealth, Batten said. While shes not against executive orders, she said, there needs to be a time constraint on it, allowing the General Assembly to meet and vote on the issue.
The cocaine hippos are descendants of animals that Escobar illegally imported to his Colombian ranch in the 1980s when he reigned over the countrys drug trade. After his death in a 1993 shootout with authorities, the hippos were abandoned at the estate and left to thrive with no natural predators  their numbers have increased in the last eight years from 35 to somewhere between 65 and 80.
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the Property Crimes Unit at 7573938536 or to submit an anonymous tip through the Portsmouth Crime Line at 1888-LOCK-U-UP. Callers can also submit an anonymous tip through the Crime Lines P3 Tips app or visit the Portsmouth Crime Line Website at www.p3tips.com.
All through negotiations on the citys greens, Christy never divulged the name of the benefactor. Even with creation of two Virginia corporations, the Williamsburg Holding Co., for business purposes and the Colonial Williamsburg, Inc. (a nonprofit corporation) the secret was still maintained. Local Williamsburg men Goodwin, Geddy, Baskerville Bat Peachy II and John Garland Pollard  were actually dummy incorporators, and none, except Goodwin, knew who the benefactor was even though they were creating his corporations
Gifting is an art, and not everyone is an expert at it. And with the pandemic having done its part in reminding us of our mortality, sustainable and meaningful gifts and exchanges are thankfully back in fashion.

We speak to industry experts on how to think beyond the mithai and namkeen ka dabba this festive season, so you can give something meaningful and mindful to your family and friends. And all that without burning a hole in your pocket!

Thoughtful gestures

The whole essence of festive gifting is to express a heartfelt gesture and gratitude that leaves a lasting impression. Qismat Zaidi, an image and branding expert, says she always believes in adding a personal touch to all her gifts. It could be a hand-written note, which is much more meaningful, while keeping in mind the interests of your loved ones, she says.

As for choosing a good gift, she shares some simple tips. Ask yourself these 4 things before you put together a gift: Who the gift is for? How does the gift reflect your relationship and values? What is your budget? Is there an experience that the recipient would appreciate other than the actual present? says Qismat.

Its important to identify what the recipients interests and values are to help you pick out the ideal gift for the person. For most people, receiving a perfectly wrapped present wouldnt hold nearly as much meaning as offering to cook for somebody. Even helping them plan a party or a day out to pamper themselves would just make them appreciative.

The right etiquette

It is important to know the gifting etiquette. Itll help you give the right gift in the right way at the right time. In fact, try to avoid spending so much that it makes a statement about your wealth or generosity.

For those with tight finances, Zorawar Mann Singh, director of F&B at Le Meridien Gurgaon recommends a DIY gift or experiential gifting. One can curate a whole experience and give the joy of relaxation and tranquillity by planning a spa-cation or stay-cation for close family members or friends, says Zorawar. Arranging a special dinner with a cooking class or with a celebrity chef can also be an option.

As for the etiquette of gifting, Zorawar shares a tip. Dont make it about you; its about the recipient, he says. Also, not all cultures celebrate the holiday season in the same manner, so ensure you understand the traditions and norms of anyone you plan to gift something to so that you dont offend or embarrass their sensibilities. Instead, go for something that is meaningful and memorable, and not materialistic.

Zorawar points out some interesting and meaningful options one can choose from. Sustainable gifting options to wellness therapies, office stationery, handmade torans and diyas by NGOs, he adds.

Traditional with a twist

A thoughtful gift conveys a feeling of affection. In Indian culture, mithai and namkeen gifts are the conventional way of gifting as it revolves around the tradition of Muh Meetha Karo [Sweeten your palate] on festive and special occasions.

However, Sumit Gaddi, founder of the Occasionally Silly gifting platform, says hes been witnessing a shift towards more meaningful substitutes. While choosing a gift for someone, keep in mind their interests, your relationship with the person and the occasion for gifting, Sumit says.

The past couple of years have been tough on peoples mental well-being, so a practical and useful gift would be a good option. For example, a nice gifting option for someone who recently developed an interest in cooking could be a set of kitchen essentials and cooking equipment. For those attending a card party, a hamper with a bottle of wine, bar accessories and playing cards would be apt.

Sumit also points out that one can curate personal gifts to suit ones budget while thinking of the presents functionality for the recipient.

Corporate gifting

Outside personal spheres, young professionals especially are moving towards a more thoughtful gifting culture this year. Personalised memorabilia and nostalgic gifts like coffee mugs, bag tags, premium photo frames and canvas prints with pictures of the family, friends or colleagues are some bestsellers for festive occasions this year.

Sachin Katira, CEO at a gifting website Zoomin, suggests that one can customise and order online gifts starting at `149 while making it a memorable gift for the recipient. Companies also are customising gifts using their brand logos on such items. With the calendar season right around the corner, gifting associates a personalised calendar with brand recall is also a good option.
Mumbai: Bombay High Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing on the bail application of Aryan Khan, accused in the drugs on cruise case, till tomorrow.

Former Attorney General of India Mukul Rohatgi was appearing for Aryan Khan today.

A special court in Mumbai on Wednesday refused to grant bail to Aryan and two others in connection with the seizure of drugs. Following this, Aryan Khan moved a bail application in the Bombay High Court against the NDPS court order on his bail rejection.

Bombay High Court on October 21 said that it would hear Aryan Khan's bail application on October 26.

An NCB team busted an alleged drugs party on the Cordelia Cruise ship which was on its way to Goa at mid-sea on October 2. A total of 20 people, including two Nigerian nationals, have been arrested so far in the case.
New Delhi: The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has ordered a vigilance inquiry into the claims made by a witness in the cruise drugs case of an extortion bid of Rs 25 crore by some agency officials, including its Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede, and others for letting off accused Aryan Khan, son of actor Shah Rukh Khan.

The vigilance inquiry will be conducted by Gyaneshwar Singh, the NCB deputy director general (DDG) of northern region based at its headquarters here. Singh is also the chief vigilance officer (CVO) of the federal anti-narcotics agency.

Wankhede landed in the national capital late on Monday night. He told reporters outside the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport that he has come to Delhi for "some work" and has "not been summoned".

Dismissing all allegations against him as "baseless", he said he conducted a fair probe in the cruise drugs case and that he stands by it 100 per cent.

Prabhakar Sail, an independent witness in the cruise drugs case, had on Sunday claimed in an affidavit and in subsequent interactions with reporters in Mumbai that Rs 25 crore was demanded by an NCB official and some other people linked to the case to let off Aryan from this investigation.

Sail said he was the bodyguard of another witness in this case, K P Gosavi, who is absconding after the NCB raids, which were conducted on October 3 at the cruise terminal on Mumbai's coast leading to the arrest of as many as 20 people, including Aryan.

Sail also claimed that he saw Gosavi meeting Shah Rukh's manager and that he was asked to sign "9-10 blank pages" in the presence of Wankhede after the cruise raids.

"We have received the affidavit and a report from our DDG (south-west region) based in Mumbai and the NCB director general has taken cognisance of this report. He has marked it to the vigilance section for inquiry.

"We are a professional organisation and we are open for inquiry against any allegation against our staffers. The inquiry will be transparent and fair," Gyaneshwar Singh told PTI.

Asked if Wankhede will continue to probe the cruise case till this inquiry goes on, Singh said the question was "premature and we will take a call as the inquiry progresses and evidences are gathered".

Officials said the NCB inquiry will look at all aspects of the claims made by Sail and will also record the version of Wankhede, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer of 2008 batch Customs cadre, and other officers of the Mumbai zonal unit involved in this drugs bust case.

The inquiry team may also question Sail, they said.

A three-member team led by Singh may travel to Mumbai for "recording the evidence and taking submissions" in this case.

The report of the inquiry will be submitted to the NCB DG and based on the findings, he may take the next course of action.

Wankhede has constantly denied the allegations being made against him in this case.

After landing at the IGI airport here, Wankhede told media persons, "I am ready to face any inquiry... all allegations (against me) are baseless."

He said he is "absolutely" sure that he conducted a fair probe in the cruise drugs case and that he stands by it 100 per cent.

The officer on Sunday also wrote to Mumbai Police commissioner Hemant Nagrale, seeking protection from likely legal action "being planned" against him by unknown persons to falsely frame him concerning an alleged vigilance-related issue.
Reddy was earlier convicted for contempt of court by the Telangana High Court in March this year for wilful disobedience of the courts interim order on land acquisition pertaining to Mallannasagar project. Representational Image. (DC File Image)

Hyderabad: In an open defiance of the judiciary, Siddipet collector P. Venkatrama Reddy said he would not honour even the directions of the Supreme Court or the High Court against his decision to ban sale of paddy seeds in the district for the upcoming rabi season from November. The collector made these shocking comments in the meeting held with seed dealers and agriculture officials in Siddipet on Tuesday.

Reddy was earlier convicted for contempt of court by the Telangana High Court in March this year for wilful disobedience of the courts interim order on land acquisition pertaining to Mallannasagar project. The court sentenced him to simple imprisonment for three months and a fine of Rs 2,000 apart from paying costs of Rs 25,000 to the petitioners.

In the meeting, Reddy warned dealers of severe consequences and jail terms and agriculture officials of suspension, if they disobeyed his orders banning paddy seed sales. "I will not accept even one kilogram of paddy seeds sold by anyone. If you sell, you will be sent to jail. I will cancel your shop

licences and seize shops. Even if dealers move to the Supreme Court and get orders to reopen shops, I will not allow shops to reopen. Even if a Supreme Court judge or High Court judge or political leaders issue orders to reopen shops, the shops will not reopen as long as I remain the collector under any circumstances. If dealers sell paddy seeds, agriculture officials concerned will be suspended." Reddy said.

The collector held this meeting to discuss measures to encourage farmers to opt for alternate crops in the place of paddy for rabi. The meeting comes against the backdrop of the state government's decision to discourage paddy cultivation in rabi after the Centre's Food Corporation of India refused to purchase boiled rice stocks produced in Telangana during rabi for public distribution system (PDS).

When contacted, the collector tried to justify his comments saying that they were meant to warn only those dealers indulging in sale of spurious seeds.

The collector's fiat to dealers and officials evoked sharp protests from Opposition parties. The BJP and the Congress leaders demanded action against the collector. BJP senior leader Gudur Narayana Reddy said the collector had been acting as extra constitutional power.

He demanded that the government immediately dismiss him from the services as he made comments which amounted to contempt of court openly. He said the collector on the record declared that he would not care for orders of the High Court and the Supreme Court.

He said that the collector was bound by the Constitution and should respect the courts at any cost.

TPCC chief A. Revanth Reddy said the collector was talking like a dictator. "How can a collector openly make such comments which amount to contempt of courts? By threatening seed dealers, he is blackmailing farmers not to opt for paddy."

Congress MLA T. Jayaprakash Jagga Reddy threatened to lay siege to the Siddipet collectorate if the collector failed to tender unconditional apologies for his remarks.
Hyderabad: After jewellery brand Tanishq last year, and clothing brands Manyavar and FabIndia, along-with tyre manufacturing company CEAT this year, consumer goods company Dabur is the latest to join the bandwagon of giving in into online abuse and removing their advertisements from all platforms.

The 1.06-minute advertisement showed two women getting ready for the ritual of the festival in which traditionally, a woman is expected to maintain a day-long fast for her husband and break it after viewing the moon at night.

This eventually did not go down well with many Netizens and some political leaders as well.

The ad, which showed both the women applying bleach on their faces and getting ready for the event, received many negative responses, with Twitterati slamming the brand for "mocking Hindu religion and Hindu festivals."

The ad's tagline, "Glow with Pride" also did not go down well with many Twitter users, with users demanding a boycott on Dabur products.

The company, on Monday, had issued an apology and said that it "strives for diversity, inclusion, and equality" and added that the intention was "not to offend any beliefs, customs and traditions, religious or otherwise".

However, even after the company's apology statement, Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra on Monday said he has directed the state police chief to convey to Dabur India to withdraw the "objectionable" beauty product advertisement, and ordered them to take legal steps if the ad is not taken back.

"I consider this a serious matter. More so because such advertisements and clippings are made on the rituals of Hindu festivals only. They (the advertisement) showed lesbians celebrating Karva Chauth and seeing each other through a sieve. In future, they will show two men taking 'feras' (marrying each other according to Hindu rituals). This is objectionable," Mishra told reporters.

The company, on Wednesday, took down the ad from all its social media handles and issued an apology again.

"Fem's Karwachauth campaign has been withdrawn from all social media handles and we unconditionally apologise for unintentionally hurting peoples sentiments," the company said on its official Twitter handle.

The Supreme Court in 2018 decriminalised homosexuality, but same-sex marriages are still prohibited in India. The controversy comes at a time when there are a clutch of petitions seeking recognition of same-sex marriage before the Delhi and Kerala high courts.

Dabur India is not the first one to get embroiled in a controversy like this.

Last week, BJP MP Anantkumar Hegde objected to an advertisement of tyre manufacturing company CEAT that featured actor Aamir Khan. In the advertisement, Khan can be seen advising a group of people to burst firecrackers inside a housing society, and not on the streets. In a letter to CEAT Chief Executive Officer Anant Vardhan Goenka, Hegde claimed that the advertisement has "created unrest among Hindus".

Last week, Clothing brand FabIndia has removed a promotional capsule about its new festive line after a backlash from right-wing groups. While the brand was accused of "defacing" the Hindu festival of Diwali by naming its festive collection as Jashn-e-Riwaaz (celebration of tradition), the company insisted that it is not a Diwali collection, which will be soon launched under 'Jhilmil si Diwali' promo.
The Chief Minister specifically instructed the officials to act against cultivation and use of cannabis/ganja and directed the state's police force to develop a comprehensive action plan to completely eradicate ganja production. Representational Image. (DC File Image)

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad city police stepped up its drive against marijuana trade in the city. Bulk buyers, local retailers and drug transporters are on police radar to curb drug peddling in the city. On Sunday alone, 12 FIRs were registered and 18 persons were arrested in the city and on Monday, 13 more FIRs were registered and 21 individuals were placed under arrest.

Speaking to this newspaper, Hyderabad police commissioner Anjani Kumar said a special drive was launched after the state level review meeting was held at Pragathi Bhavan chaired by Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao who declared an all-out war against drug menace in the state, primarily marijuana.

The Chief Minister addressed all police commissioners, superintendents of police in the districts and excise officials among others to tackle the drug flow.

Accordingly, every zone in Hyderabad, including north, south, west, east and central, has two teams which will collect information on drug users and peddlers and share it with the law and order wing. Every ACP in the law and order wing has a team under him, which is sent to the said areas to tackle the issue.

Meanwhile, we also have seven teams from the special branch who coordinate with the task force teams with five inspectors, said the official.

The Chief Minister specifically instructed the officials to act against cultivation and use of cannabis/ganja and directed the state's police force to develop a comprehensive action plan to completely eradicate ganja production. The usage of cannabis is on the increase. There is an urgent need to declare an all-out war against drug abuse. Before the situation goes out of hand and becomes severe, one should be alert, the Chief Minister said.

We are establishing a link between those caught with drugs and their suppliers. We have identified a few men from outside the state who are involved in the trade. We will not stop this drive till we completely eliminate marijuana from the city. We also had four cases in which peddlers were caught possessing ecstasy pills, added the police commissioner.

Meanwhile, excise officials were also told to strengthen their squads, and the state's intelligence department was told to form a team to strengthen their communication network.
HYDERABAD: Although TRS chief K. Chandrashekar Rao and its working president K.T. Rama Rao are repeatedly claiming that the October 30 Huzurabad Assembly by-elections was a 'minor thing' and its outcome would not have any impact on the party or the government, the absence of several ministers and MLAs at the party plenary proved the amount of significance the party attaches to the by-election.

Ministers T. Harish Rao, Gangula Kamalakar, Koppula Eshwar and dozens of party MLAs, MLCs and senior party leaders skipped Mondays plenary as they are busy campaigning.

MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha was also conspicuous with her absence. She was in Dubai to showcase Bathukamma on Burj Khalifa on October 23. Ironically, legislators A. Jeevan Reddy, Bajireddy Govardhan and B. Ganesh Gupta, who accompanied her, attended the plenary.

The party leadership has camped three ministers, several MLAs and MLCs in Huzurabad since July with the sole target of defeating BJP nominee Etala Rajendar.

Never have ministers, MLAs and MLCs skipped the party plenary in such large numbers. This year's plenary assumed all the more significance as it marks the completion of two decades since inception and it was being held after a gap of three years.
Hyderabad: Allaying all fears that the state would run short, TRS president and Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao said that there was no dearth of funds for the Dalit Bandhu scheme, and all 17 lakh Dalit families in the state will be covered in the next seven years, till 2028.

Speaking after his re-election as party president at the TRS plenary here, Rao expressed confidence that the TRS will retain power for the third term from 2023 to 2028.

We still have two years left in this term till December 2023. The TRS will again come to power for a third term till December 2028. We will not only cover all the 17 lakh, Dalit families, till 2028 but also STs, BCs, minorities and the poor among the OCs till then," Rao added.

Dismissing Opposition parties criticism that no government could afford to implement Dalit Bandhu, Rao said, "All that it requires is Rs 1.7 lakh crore to extend Dalit Bandhu to all 17 lakh Dalit families in Telangana. Telangana's annual budget size will reach nearly Rs 4.28 lakh crore by 2028 from Rs 2.30 lakh crore now, according to economic experts, he said.

The government will spend over Rs 23 lakh crore by 2028 on schemes and projects. Of this, spending Rs 1.7 lakh crore is not a big thing. Moreover, this Rs 1.7 lakh crore spent on Dalit Bandhu will create wealth of Rs 10 lakh crore as Dalits will set up business units and contribute to economic growth and job creation.

He said people in Andhra Pradesh were asking him to launch the TRS after the Dalit Bandhu scheme was initiated. Rao claimed that people in AP were assuring him that they will ensure victory for TRS in AP if he launches the party.

He said people from five Assembly constituencies in Nanded district of Maharashtra and an MLA from Raichur in Karnataka were demanding that their respective state governments implement the TRS government's welfare schemes or merge their areas with Telangana.
Kolkata: To foil the plan of the BJP at the Centre on a separate statehood of Gorkhaland, West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday proposed to make a "permanent solution" for Darjeeling to keep the hills, Dooars and Terai region in North Bengal intact with the state.

Her offer came amid a tripartite talk initiated by union home minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on October 12 with the state government and various political parties including elected representatives of the BJP to sort out the issues of the Gorkhas.

The Trinamul Congress supremo, who is touring North Bengal, also expressed her anguish during her government's administrative review meeting of two districts, Darjeeling and Kalimpong, at Kurseong on the victory of the BJP at Darjeeling seat in the last three Lok Sabha Election with the promise of a separate statehood for the hills which, according to her, is unheard of in Himachal Pradesh.

Without taking the name of BJP, Ms Banerjee said, "Some political parties surface before the election with a promise to turn Darjeeling into a state but disappear later. Every time an MP belonging to them is getting elected here. Except one MLA, rest is ours. Their actual motto is to keep you divided. Now I ask you to give me a plan on how to reach a permanent solution. I will help you to keep Darjeeling with Bengal. Give me a chance. I will make a permanent solution for you."

She added, "I am ready to offer assistance so that your children can establish themselves. There are a lot of scopes. But a movement every ten years vandalises everything in the hills, forcing people not to visit here in fear. Such things do not happen in Himachal Pradesh. A government alone can not usher development in the hills. In Uttarakhand, BJP and many other parties exist. Still scores of people die there in natural disasters."

Ms Banerjee suggested a committee be set up to formulate the "plan" for a "permanent solution" for the hills. Anit Thapa, who recently launched a separate political outfit, Bharatiya Gorkha Prajatantrik Morcha, after leaving Gorkha Janmukti Morcha and who was also present at the government meeting, will be a member of the panel along with two other hill leaders, Roshan Giri and Amar Singh Rai and TMC leader Goutam Deb.

The CM also called for an eco-friendly infrastructure in the hills in wake of multiple landslides due to a heavy rainfall recently.
Hyderabad: Director General of Police M. Mahendar Reddy on Monday dismissed allegations by state Congress chief A. Revanth Reddy that the phones of the state police chief and Union minister G. Kishan Reddy are being tapped.

He called Revanth Reddys statements on tapping of phones and of groupism within the department as absolutely baseless and defamatory in nature.

The Central Government has issued regulations and guidelines with regard to interception of phones under the Indian Telegraph Act. The department has been strictly adhering to these guidelines, while taking measures for prevention of crime and maintenance of public order and peace in public interest, said an official statement from the DGPs office.

The statement said that the officers of all wings of the police had been working in absolute cohesion and there are no groups within the department as alleged. Making such baseless allegations has a serious impact on the morale and motivation of the police force which in turn will adversely affect public safety and security, it said.

The MP and TPCC President has expressed his view that it would have been better, had the Maoist problem continued. More than 350 personnel of Telangana Police have laid down their lives and made supreme sacrifices fighting left wing extremism. It is also a well-known fact that a large number of innocent citizens, public representatives including ministers and MLAs had lost their lives in the mindless violence perpetrated by Maoists. Making baseless allegations against police officers risking their lives day in and day out does not augur well for the safety and security of society at large, the statement further said.
Naidu demanded the recall of AP DGP Gautam Sawang and a thorough inquiry into the drug mafia in AP state. (DC Image)

Vijayawada: The Mission Delhi tour of former chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and other Telugu Desam leaders concluded on Tuesday after lodging a complaint against YSR Congress government with President Ram Nath Kovind. The TD team tried to get appointment of union home minister Amit Shah to lodge a complaint against the Jagan Mohan Reddy government for sponsoring attacks on its party offices, but could not meet Amit Shah as he was in Jammu and Kashmir on a three-day tour.

According to reports, the TDP team also tried to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi but could not get a chance due to prior schedules. Amit Shah met PM Modi on Tuesday afternoon after returning from Jammu and Kashmir to brief about the situation.

Naidu with the delegation met President Kovind on Monday, submitted a memorandum seeking imposition of Presidents rule in AP using Article 356 and further CBI investigation into the attacks on TD offices by YSRC activists. Naidu demanded the recall of AP DGP Gautam Sawang and a thorough inquiry into the drug mafia in AP state.

The party sources stated rebel MP from Narasapuram K. Raghurama Krishnam Raju who has cordial relations with Modi and Amit Shah tried to get an appointment for Naidu, but in vain. The party leaders said Naidu would once again visit Delhi in the coming days to meet Amit Shah after getting appointment.
Gandhi also expressed concern over the party's messages on key issues not percolating down to the grassroot cadres. (ANI file photo)

New Delhi: Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday emphasised on the need for discipline and unity, saying strengthening the organisation must override personal ambitions.

Chairing a meeting of top party leaders to evolve a strategy for assembly elections in five states early next year, she said the party must redouble its fight for the victims of the Union government's "worst excesses".

Gandhi also expressed concern over the party's messages on key issues not percolating down to the grassroot cadres, and said there is lack of clarity and cohesion even among state leaders.

Former party chief Rahul Gandhi also attended the meeting of party general secretaries, in-charges and Pradesh Congress presidents at the AICC headquarters here.

The leaders have also come together to chalk out a strategy for the party's new membership drive and finalise the modalities for it. The drive is starting from November 1 and will continue till March 31 next year.

"I would like to re-emphasise the paramount need for discipline and unity. What should matter to each and every one of us is the strengthening of the organisation. This must override personal ambitions. In this lies both collective and individual success," Sonia Gandhi said in her opening remarks.

Stressing on training programmes for party workers, the Congress chief said it should be taken up on priority.

"The fight to defend our democracy, our constitution and the Congress party's ideology begins with being fully prepared to identify and counter false propaganda.

"We must fight the diabolical campaign of BJP/RSS ideologically. We must do so with conviction and expose their lies before the people if we are to win this battle," she said.

Noting that AICC releases important and detailed statements almost every day on issues facing the nation, Sonia Gandhi said, "But it is my experience that they do not percolate down to our grass root cadres at the block and district level. There are policy issues on which I find a lack of clarity and cohesion even amongst our state-level leaders."

Attacking the Modi government, she said it has sought to erode our institutions so it may evade accountability and has sought to undermine the core values of our constitution so it can hold itself to a lower standard.

It has questioned the very fundamentals of our democracy, she said.

"We must redouble our fight for those who are the victims of this government's worst excesses: our farmers and farm labourers, our youth fighting for jobs and opportunities, small and medium scale businesses, our brothers, our sisters with particular focus on the deprived," she stressed.

On the elections to five states, the Congress leader said our campaign must be founded upon concrete policies and programmes emanating from widespread discussions with all sections of society.

Assembly elections in the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur are slated early next year.
Hyderabad: The more than five-month-long electioneering in Huzurabad will come to an end at 5 pm on Wednesday with the Election Commission of India (EC) prescribing a 72-hour period of silence before the polling begins on October 30.

The norm is to end the campaign 48 hours before polling, but the Election Commission had extended the period to three days in the last three phases of the West Bengal elections.

All major parties remain tense as they fail to gauge the pulse of voters even after the long campaign since May except that the main contest is between the TRS and the BJP. The parties are focused on door-to-door campaigning to meet every voter and seek votes for the past one week.

They are also occupied by micro-level booth management by appointing incharges for every ward whose job is to ensure voters reach polling booths and cast votes. The TRS has been receiving contradictory reports from ground-level from its leaders and cadre in Huzurabad.

While some point to BJP candidate Etala Rajendar leading by up to 15 per cent votes, some indicate the TRS candidate Gellu Srinivas Yadav has an edge by 10 per cent votes.

Delegates who attended the TRS plenary on Monday were seen discussing these ground reports extensively among themselves.

They said the situation had considerably improved for the TRS in the constituency at present than May when TRS president and Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao sacked Rajendar from his Cabinet in the first week of May. They said at that time Rajendar was leading by over 50 per cent votes, which had now come down to less than 10 per cent.

Although Rajendar quit the TRS and the MLA post on June 12 and joined the BJP on June 14, the election atmosphere had set in Huzurabad constituency in May itself with the TRS ministers and MLAs camping and campaigning in the constituency since then.

The TRS is facing Huzurabad bypoll without the public meeting of its star campaigner Chandrashekar Rao.

The Chief Minister cancelled his public meeting planned for October 27 following the EC imposing restrictions on public gatherings at 1,000 in Huzurabad and bordering areas covering the entire Karimnagar and Hanamkonda districts. The TRS had planned to hold a huge public meeting of the Chief Minister with one lakh people, but was forced to cancel.
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Relatives of the Groveland Four, from left, Vivian Shepherd, niece of Sam Shepherd, Gerald Threat, nephew of Walter Irvin; Carol Greenlee, daughter of Charles Greenlee, gather at the just-unveiled monument in front of the Old Lake County courthouse in Tavares, Fla., Friday, Feb. 21, 2020. Saying they were denied fundamental rights, local prosecutor Bill Gladson has filed a motion to clear the names of the four men who were wrongly accused of raping a white woman more than seven decades ago in what is considered one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in Jim Crow-era Florida. Gladson filed a motion on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021 to dismiss the indictments of Ernest Thomas and Samuel Shepherd and to set aside the judgments and sentences of Charles Greenlee and Walter Irvin.
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Written by ACM

*Strasbourg/EU Parliament/Angelo Marcopolo/- For the 1st Time reacting All Together to EU Citizens' initial Proposals, in the Conference on Europe's Future, the 3 Co-Chairs, Top Representatives of EU Council, Commission and Parliament, (Dovzan, Suica and Verhofstadt), in a Joint Press Conference at EU Parliament in Strasbourg,



Replying to a relevant "Eurofora"s Question on the Eventual Creation of fully-fledged Citizens' new "Right to Dialogue" with EU Decision-Makers, Before Measures Affecting their Lives and/or Society,



=> Welcomed, in Principle, "New Creativity" from EU Citizens, just After Warning for "Intensified" Moves asap, and/or suggested "to Put it into" Public "Debate(s)", in order "To See the Outcome".



----------------------





* -Eurofora" observed from the outset: : - "All of you Three, Stressed the Role of Citizens in the EU Decision-Making process : EU Commission's vice-President Suica speaking about an eventual role in the "Drafing" of EU Measures : EU Parliament's Coordinator, Vehofstadt, speaking about a "Permanent" dimension, in one way or another, and the EU Council's President-in-office, Slovenian Minister of European affairs, Dovzan, speaking about "Diversity".

=> But, Do you think that European People could legitimately Dream to join all the 3 points that You evoked, and More, in ordert to Invent a Mechanism of a kind of soft buit real "Dialogue" Between EU Citizens and EU Decision-Makers, Before important Decisions Affecting their Lives and/or Society at large, (naturaly in an Adequate way, Protecting the Efficiency of EU Decision-Making, whenever necessary) ?



Such a Proposal has Already been Registered at the Official Internet Platform of the Conference on Europe's Future on 2021 (Since the Day of CFE's 1st Plenary: http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euroforaprojectpublishedateuconference.html , at: https://futureu.europa.eu/processes/Democracy/f/6/proposals/32770 ), and, among others, has been Endorsed Also by a 2 Days-Long Public Conference of Citizens organized by the Euro-Metropole of Strasbourg, (in the framework of French President Macron's "Great Debate" 2019, as well as Included in the relevant Official Report to the French Government : See http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euroforaideasendorsedbystrasbourggreatdebate.html, etc), its Key Parts were Backed "also Elsewhere", f.ex. in Two 2021 Resolutions Adopted by EU Parliament (See: http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euparliamentoneuroforaproject.html), after CoE's Assembly (See: ..), and Discussed with Many EU or CoE Top Officials, (while it's even known that, according to Philosopher Platon, describing his famous "Socratic Dialogues", it's the Best Instrument for Finding the Truth).... There are Legal Tools, in this direction, in most EU Member States, and some Relevant Elements even in the existing EU "Lisbon" Treaty", we reminded, (See: http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euparliamentonombudsmanandeurofora.html, etc, in relation to which We Positively Discussed "Eurofora"s Project with EU Ombudswoman Emily O'Reilly and French President Emmanuel Macron, who Both Encouraged it : http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euombudsmanoneurofforaproject.html + http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/macronforcitizensdebatesalsoafter2019.html, etc.).

Inter alia, "Eurofora" has Also, more or less Discussed that Project with a lot of Key EU or CoE Top Politicians, during Many Years, including, practicaly including All EU Parliament's Presidents, as the current, David Sassoli, etc., both in Brussels and in Strasbourg, (See, f.ex. : http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euparliamentpresidentforstrongcitizenvoices.html + http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euparliamentoncitizensforeufuture.html).

------------------------------------------------------------------





**=> EUCouncil President in Office, Slovenian Minister of European affairs, Dovzan's reply, to "Eurofora"'s Question pppeared quite Dynamic, (particularly at its Concluding Suggestion) :



- "I think that EU is a Multi-Level Governance System, at a Local, Regional, National, and Supra-National levels, and in All Levels we have to Invest Efforts.



But in the EU Level, we have also a multiLingual Platform System, that Allows us to Integrate Ideas.



The (EU) Commission also has a practice to Discuss Ideas and the new Legislation proposed, with Stake-Holders and, let's say : Citizens.



But, We (CFE) can also put it on a Debate, and We shall See what the Final Outcome would be"...



=> There are, Certainly, Ways to Improve the Existing Mechanisms, that we (EU) Already have".

------------------------------------

*** Surprisingly, EUCommission Vice-President, in charge of Democracy, Suica's reply to "Eurofora" was quite Different:



- "We caN't preempt the Conclusions : As we said, We are Trying to Listen, to See what Citizens Ask from Us".

-"But, Also, as Mr Dovzan said, the EU Commission has Mechanisms, we have like "Citizens' Initiative", or "Have Your Say", different "Public Consultations", (etc),



- "So that "We are in Constant Dialogue with Citizens", she Claimed.



+ "Our MEPs are Also in Dialogue with their Constituents, also National Parliamentarians", etc. So, we have Contacts'.



=> "But, Now, we are Trying to EmPower outselves with the Ideas, the New Creativity of our Citizens. This is something Completely New".



- "But, Let's See What the End of these Deliberations show", (she apparently Reserved her Final appreciation for Later-on).

-------------------------------------------------- But if some had, eventualy, made Sucia claim that "Eurofora"s Project would not bring something realy New for Citizens' Rights, then, such a Misundesrstanding would be a series of Blatant Errors !



- First of all, Obviously, "Have Your Say", and "Citizens' Consultations", are Mere "Consultations", and Not at all a Real "Dialogue" !



F.ex., inter alia, they doN't include at all any EU Citizens' Right to ask a Judge to Control whether EU Commission really Replied to All their legitimate Critical Observations, if it did so Sufficiently, based on Real Facts, and/or Valid Legal Arguments, concerning a Proportionate Measure, aiming to reach a Legal Aim of General Interest, Oherwise Cancelling it, if it did Not. (While, on the Contrary, in accordance with "Eurofora"s published Proposal, An Affected EU Citizen would have been given such a Right to immediately Trigger such a Judicial Control, on any or All of those 7 Points)...



+ As for the UnFortunate "Citizens' Initiative", foreseen by EU's Lisbon Treaty, But Notoriously "Killed", in real Practice, until now, by an Excessively Restrictive and Heavy Reglementation by EU Commission, (initialy endorsed by a Majority in an Old EU Parliament, in the Past), ..



>>> Indeed, those EU Commission's Excessively Heavy PreConditions agains the ECI, had More Bureaucratic Obstacles than ...the Dust from a Big Icelandish Volcano which had Notoriously Downed almost all European Airplanes, by a Coincidence, that Same Day of 2010, (as "Eurofora" Timely and systematicaly had Reminded in All Questions we raised, then, to All Press-Conferences organized by EU Parliament's Political Parties :See ... + http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/lellouchvolcanoashclouds.html + ... , etc) !



Only an Original, Ground-Braking Cooperation between EU Citizens and MEPs, (practicaly giving to the latter a still Lacking "Legislative Initiative"), as Proposed by "Eurofora" already since 2020, (See: http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/mepdurandeuroforaonfutureconf.html + http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/mepdurandeuroforaonfutureconf.html, etc), might Help Bypass the current Deadlock of ECI.

=> The Inevitable Consequence was to Practicaly Undermine that "Citizens' Initiative" tool of Lisbon Treaty, Resulting in a Spectacular Deadlock, Often Denounced by Many People and EU Politicians, until recently, to the poin that such a Scandalous situation made Even the EU Parliament itself to lately Ask on 2021 for a Necessary Change, in order to Make, at last, the ECI more Accessible to real Citizens' concerns in the foreseable Future, (See : http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/euparliamentoneuroforaproject.html , etc)...



But, Until Now, the Only attempt to Ameliorate, a Little bit, that "Citizens' Initiative"'s Scandalously Restrictive regime, was a Concrete Proposal, (initialy made by "Eurofora"s co-Founder, to EU Parliament's Historic Rapporteur on that issue, French MEP and former EU Affairs Minister, Alain Lamassure, who had Accepted to finaly include it in his Draft Report then), to, at least, let the Authors Participate in a Debate with MEPs inside EU Parliament, (which does Not engage them in Anything, remaining a Simply "Moral" or Symbolic move, withOut Any Legislative or Other Consequence, at least for the Time being)... [See f.ex. Lamassoure's and EU Commissioner Cefcovic's relevant Replies to "Eurofora"s Questions at the Key Press-Conference on ECI's imminent, then, creation, Back on 2010, at : http://www.eurofora.net/newsflashes/news/debatesincitizensinitiatives.html ].



=> Therefore, many converging Crystal-clear and Verifiable Facts prove that, Obviously, Miss Suica's "Experts" on such kind of Issues, Failed her, and MisLed her too much, with False Appearances and Blatant Erroneous and Unsubstantiated Claims about a so-called "pre-existing" EU Citizens' Right of "Dialogue" with EU Decision-Makers Before Decisions affecting their Lives or Society (Comp. Supra), which, in fact, does Not Exist yet... >>> Such a Misunderstanding would, indeed, be considered as an illegal act, due to be Cancelled by a Judge, according to "Eurofora"s proposed Legal Mechanism, for at least ... Five (5) Reasons : (1)"InSufficient Motivation" : It doesN't take into account the Fact that Individual EU Citizens and Groups of Less than 1 Million (sic !), or Not meeting those Numerous Bureaucratic Conditions imposed by Brussels, (Comp. Supra), do Not have Yet, Nowadays, the Rights that "Eurofora"s Project would give them, for the 1st Time. (In this regard, the Blatant Censorship of "Eurofora"s registered Proposal, at those "Reports" prepared by some Anonymous Bureaucrats Misrepresenting what Really Exists in CoFoE's Web Platform - Contrary to Explicit Links at Many Other, even Caricatural, Hasty claims- speaks for itself for a blatant Discrimination by some, apparently AFraid of Ideas able to Bring Real and Far-Reaching Modern Democratic Changes)...

(2) "Non-Existent Fact" : Neither "Have your Say", "Consultations", nor "ECI", do Not include EU Institutions' Obligation to give to the Affected Citizens a full and Sufficient Motivation Justifying Why they might Refuse to Stop a planned Measure, by Replying, point by point, to All Citizens' relevant Arguments and Facts, cited in Support of their Opposition, (Contrary to what Suica's above-mentioned Claim obviously implies).

(3)"Legal Error" : Nothing in "Have Your Say", "Consultations", or "ECI" does Not Give, to each EU Citizen Affected by a planned EU Measure, a Legal Right Equal to that proposed by "Eurofora"s Project, (placed under the Control of a Judge, able to Cancel such an EU Institution's Act, for having followed an Irregular Process of Decision-Making).

(4) Neither a "Prportionality" Control, Nor for an eventual "Obvious Error of Appreciation", do Not Accompagny Miss Suica's cases of Simple "Consultations", "Have your Say", or "ECI" pre-existing Old Tools, while, on the Contrary, Judges usually Check such Issues in the cases concerned by "Eurofora" Project's Judicial Control of Public Administration Acts... (See, f.ex, "Eurofora" co-Founder's more than 1.000 pages relevant Original Legal Research on Comparative Law, proposed by Strasbourg's Faculty of Law for a Prize awarded to PhD Thesis, after a written proposal by Paris II University Professor Paul Amselek).

(5) "Detournement de Pouvoir" (French Legal term) : By Falsely Claiming that "Eurofora"s Project would Not Bring Anything really New (sic !), in fact, such a Misconception looks as an Attempt to Muzzle, on the Contrary, a very Far-Reaching Proposal, considerably Strengthening EU Citizens' Democratic Rights in Modern Society...



-------------------

>>> At any case, if there might be any kind of Doubt to anyone involved, Why Not Follow the Advise just Given by EU Council's President-in-office, European Affairs Minister Gasper Dovzan, in Conclusion of his Interesting Reply, against any eventual Attempt to Muzzle "Eurofora"'s above-mentioned Query, about the Creation of a brand New EU Citizens' Right to such a "Dialogue":



- I.e. to Simply Launch a specific EU "Debate" on that Issue, "and See What the Final Outcome would be" (Comp. Supra) ?

-----------------------------------------------



+ By the way, didn't EU Parliament's Coordinator on CFE, Guy Verhofstadt, just Stress, shortly Earlier, that he Expects for Action around EU Citizens' Proposals, (as Also that of "Eurofora"), to Soon "Intensify", during the Next few Months ?...



---------------------------------------

=> The overall and Sharp Tone of Several "Hot" Interventions, by Various Actors, (Participating Citizens' Ambassadors, MEPs, NGOs, Local-Regional Representatives, Social Partners, etc) during Today's Afternoon 2nd Plenary of the CFE, dealing with Citizens' Ideas at the Web Platform, (i.e. Including that of "Eurofora"s registered Proposal, with More than 750 Followers), gave a Vivid Impression that Many European People really Wished a Change towards such Novel and Modern Democratic Tools, in EU-Citizens relations Nowadays !



(../..)

("Draft-News")

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This blog covers software patent news and issues with a particular focus on wireless, mobile devices (smartphones, tablet computers, connected cars) as well as select antitrust matters surrounding those devices.
Russian Navy planners with military officials say that maritime operations will have drones as an integral part of military strategy. The development of drones for military use is getting developed by many forces around the world.

For Russia, this means having autonomous units for the military branches for any purpose needed. One aspect of these autonomous units is that they can do missions without losing human life and allow the most extreme operations to be done remotely.

Underwater, Aerial Drones of the Russia Navy

One particular unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV) is the Poseidon which can go deep and move fast if needed. Even NATO shudders at the thought of this nuclear torpedo which is Moscow's insurance policy against nuclear attack, reports The Nationalist Interest.

Poseidon is an unorthodox weapon for tactical use and custom-made to attack powerful US carrier strike groups.

It's only one of several technologies developed. Other than marine drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) will supplement naval modernization, said a top Russian defense industry executive, cited The Diplomat.

Oleg Savchenko spoke about how Russia's maritime modernization is going ahead, noted TakTikz.

He added that in the framework of the Armed Forces development in cooperation with different services and weapon systems. It is related to the approaches available in the new information space.

Savchenko says these approaches are more use of combat drones. One example is that manned ships in future combat will be of less use. Instead, more drones will be used in the front for naval warfare or operations based on Russian navy planners.

Read Also: Russian Federation Developing Underwater Aircraft Carrier Submarine Prototype to Increase Its Naval Advantage

Robot ships will be a different category to follow. But other complementary uncrewed autonomous systems from aerial, underwater, and even swarming drones as well, cited TASS.

Crewed ships will be less survivable in the age of hypersonic weapons, and the use of robot ships will be a countermeasure to consider. Employing all sorts of robotic or remote vessels will be the thrust, and even swarm drones, stated the Krylov State Research Center.

It is a race for major nations like Russia to establish a force based on drone technology to be part of the armed forces, hoping for domination in a power struggle.

Russia's UUV Could use Tsunami strategy

One of the craziest weapons to be devised by any nation is the Poseidon unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), with a nuclear warhead that will explode submerged deep underwater. This UUV will cause a radioactive tsunami that will rise and flood land areas.

It will be the ultimate revenge weapon to hit back at enemy coasts like the USA. Better yet, it is developed to travel and reach the coastal areas of any adversary nation and made for stealth attacks.

The fear of the power of a carrier strike group has made this weapon possible, and since the US has the most carriers, that are where its greatest strength lies.

But Russia has even fitted its new Belgorod special-purpose submarines to carry at least six of them for good measure. These are considered the best deterrents conceived by any nation on earth.

Like the US, the Russian Navy planners are moving from a sizeable brutish force to leaner and meaner, with drones to add to its systems in the future.

Related Article: Is the Poseidon Underwater Missile Worth the Trouble Compared to Hypersonic Missile That Gets to the Target Faster?

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The last letters penned from Hitler's bunker are revealed after getting lost in the final days of the Third Reich. It gave the personal thoughts of the Fuhrer as American and Soviet forces were hurtling to Berlin towards the end of the war.

After seventy-five years, they have been revealed to the public after a French soldier took it from his bunker. Written were his final thoughts that included killing himself and one saying 'everything is screwed.'

Letters taken from the Fuhrer's bunker were revealed 70 years later

These letters from the top-secret underground bunker were taken by a French soldier, kept for more than seventy years, and recently revealed to the public. Not knowing the value of his souvenirs, the soldier saved part of history.

In the final days, a collection of letters, telegrams, and documents are essential keepsakes, including the last order Hitler gave. Which was to send all forces left to save Berlin, reported the Daily Star.

One of the last letters written by Hitler is to commit suicide with his wife, Eva Braun. One telegram, by his private secretary Martin Bormann, says things weren't right.

These one-of-a-kind documents were saved by French soldier Captain Michel Leroy and kept for almost eighty years after stealing the letters from the Fuhrer's bunker in November 1945, nearly seven months after the ex-German chancellor died.

Leroy's son gave the packet of letters to the historian Xavier Aiolfi, which was kept by his father when alive, cited the Republic World.

Nazis were aware that evidence against them would be needed if the allies won. They embarked on a campaign to get rid of anything and burned them except the last letters penned from Hitler's bunker. Had it not been for the French soldier, they would be gone today.

Read Also: Hitler's Nazi Death Squads Massacred About 3,500 Women and Children As Discovered in a Russian Mass Grave

Historian reveals documents from Hitler's final days

Historians Xavier Aiolfi and Paul Villatoux have exhibited the documents publicly in their book, 'The Final Archives of the Fuhrerbunker' gleaned from seventy papers in all, noted Sputnik News.

The lack of actual documents from the Nazis has caused prosecutors to consider post-war testimonies and documents in Germany as the only source of documenting Adolf Hitler's last days alive.

It was revealed from the written sources of the collection, and it was torturous for Hitler and his entourage that Germany would fall. Everyone in the bunker feels paranoid and without hope as the Fuhrer himself.

Among the grim and dark letters, one item stood out: a drawing of brightly colored flowers and insects by Eike, Bormann's daughter. The soldier salvaged it from the wrecked bunker, including a telegram from Bormann that said Adolf Hitler would rather die than flee Berlin.

The Fuhrer was tied up in knots, and he would not leave. He made his mind as he gave the last command.

On April 25, 1945, Bormann received the last order from Hitler. Five days later, Hitler took his life with his wife dying as well.

The final command from Hitler for the German forces in Denmark, Norway, Latvia to leave for Berlin, but he was deluded and knew the enemies defeated them.

The historian hailed it as first-hand documents to the last days in Hitler's bunker. Fear of revenge from trial once the Red Army won caused this to be the complete batch of documents seen.

On May 2, 1945, Bormann killed himself to avoid capture, several days after Hitler's suicide. Soviets never admitted that they found the body.

Related Article: Vengeance Weapon Found? Nazi V-2 Superweapon Discovered Lying Underground for 77-years in Kent Field

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In a letter to President Joe Biden on Monday, relatives of more than two dozen American hostages and unjust prisoners detained abroad questioned his administration's commitment to bringing their loved ones home.

The family members complained in a letter obtained by The Associated Press that the administration looked to be "locked in burdensome processes or policy debates that prevent our loved ones from returning home and leave us in the dark about what you can and cannot do to aid us."

Biden administration accused of not prioritizing prisoner releaser

The letter underscores rising hostage community concerns that the Biden administration's foreign policy strategy does not prioritize prisoner release and that legal and political moves have hampered rather than improved attempts to free hostages. In some cases, the families believe they are in a "worse" circumstance now than they were eight months ago, according to the letter to Biden.

The United States left Afghanistan without returning Mark Frerichs, an American contractor, abducted there in early 2020. Following the extradition to the US on corruption charges of a businessman who authorities claim was a significant conduit for wrongdoing by President Nicolas Maduro's inner circle, six American oil executives who had been under house arrest in Venezuela were sent back to jail this month.

Per NY Post, families that signed the letter have relatives in Afghanistan, China, Cuba, Mali, Russia, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, Syria, and Venezuela who are jailed or held prisoner.

While the families expressed gratitude for being in a conversation with Secretary of State Antony Blinken in February, many of their situations remain unchanged, according to the letter.

The families complained that they have been unable to meet with Biden or National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan to discuss their various captivity situations. According to the families, this leads them to believe that "your administration is not emphasizing discussions and other strategies to secure their release," according to the families.

Read Also: Nancy Pelosi Dodges on Question if She Will Run for Speaker Again; Says Tax on Wealthy Assets Would Pay for Only 10% of The Spending Bill

President is pressured to do more for the detainees, hostages abroad

They include the mother of Trevor Reed, a Marine sentenced to nine years in prison after a Moscow court found him guilty of assaulting a police officer, and the family of Paul Rusesabagina, whose heroics during the Rwandan genocide inspired the movie 'Hotel Rwanda,' but who is now imprisoned in his home country on trumped-up charges, according to his supporters.

The James W. Foley Foundation, founded after journalist James Foley, who was held hostage for over two years before being murdered by ISIS, issued a letter describing their initial hope in Biden. Biden's predecessor used hostage negotiations to demonstrate his capacity to strike deals.

Last year, former President Trump invited six rescued hostages to the White House to record a video for the Republican National Convention to promote his unconventional approach to resettling Americans.

There was also a high-level expedition to Damascus in an attempt to locate journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted in Syria in 2012. Biden has been pressed to accomplish more.

This concern has only worsened in the last week, after 17 American and Canadian missionaries and their families were abducted after being pushed from a bus in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The head of the Haitian gang that kidnapped them has threatened to kill them unless he receives a $1 million ransom for each of them, Daily Mail reported.

Related Article: Joe Biden Ignores Afghanistan Questions During 90-Minute Town Hall; White House Cleans Up Multiple of President's Comments

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Microsoft claims the Russian hackers behind the successful 2020 breach of US federal agencies have penetrated as many as 14 technology businesses since May as part of a new spying effort.

Firms that acquire and sell software, as well as companies that handle cloud computing services, have been targeted by the hackers, as opposed to the 2020 breach. Microsoft did not name the firms that the claimed Russian spies targeted, nor did it disclose the final targets of the accused Russian spies.

The Microsoft revelation comes after CNN reported earlier this month that the Russian hacking group had been attempting to enter US and European government networks through hacked technology companies in previously unknown activity.

Microsoft warns Russia group continued intrusions

The hackers attempted to sneak into more than 140 software resellers and other computer organizations using typical approaches such as phishing. The ultimate objective is to "impersonate an organization's trusted technology partner to get access to downstream consumers," according to Tom Burt, Microsoft's corporate vice president, customer security and trust.

Per WLFI, it's the most recent information on a Russian group that has defied US government and industry defenses in the past two years.

The hackers are most known for hacking at least nine US agencies using modified software developed by federal contractor SolarWinds, which was discovered in December 2020. For months, the attackers remained unnoticed in the Departments of Justice, Homeland Security, and others' unclassified email networks.

In April, the Biden administration blamed Russia's foreign intelligence service, the SVR, for the spying operation and chastised Moscow for exposing thousands of SolarWinds clients to malicious codes. Moscow has denied any participation in the incident.

Microsoft has warned over 140 resellers and service providers that they were targets of Nobelium and that it may have hacked "as many as 14" of them.

Furthermore, the business informed 609 clients that Nobelium had attacked them 22,868 times between July 1 to October 19. In comparison to past years, the number of attacks has increased significantly.

Read Also: Taliban Offers Work-in-Trade Program for Wheat to Boost Employment Amid Afghanistan's Tumultuous Food Crisis

US sanctions have nothing to do to curb Russian-linked cyberattack

"Ultimately, the hacking group aims to piggyback on any direct access that resellers may have to their customers' IT systems and more easily mimic an organization's trusted technology partner to obtain access to its downstream customers," Burt said as per The Washington Examiner.

The hacker organization has not attempted to exploit software flaws in its latest attack targeting resellers and service providers. Instead, they've used "well-known techniques," including phishing attempts.

SolarWinds admitted in December that it had been hacked by hackers who used the company's Orion software upgrades to spread malware to its users' systems. Federal government agencies such as the Justice Department, State Department, and Treasury Department were among the 18,000 clients affected, according to the business.

The Biden administration has implemented sanctions, and Russia has been subjected to unprecedented international pressure to act against both government-linked hackers and cyber criminals operating within its borders.

However, given Microsoft's disclosure Monday that the same Russian hacker gang behind last year's SolarWinds attack is still targeting organizations, the efforts appear to have done nothing to curb the activity.

Despite President Joe Biden's sanctions and demands to take action against hackers within Russia's borders at an in-person meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, these hacking attempts occurred. Several federal agencies have prioritized improving cybersecurity, and the White House recently convened a meeting of more than 30 countries to tackle ransomware assaults, The Hill via MSN reported.

Related Article: Cyberattack: US State Department and Other Government Agencies Compromise

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Democrats believe they're moving closer to a settlement on their large social-spending plan, which aims to unite the party's feuding sections and help President Joe Biden carry out his two-part economic strategy.

White House and Lawmakers Finalizing Biden's Economic Plan

In a recently published article in MSN News, the White House and legislative leaders are working with two key Senate holdouts to finalize the final details and expenditure cutbacks, trying to achieve a framework that will satisfy both the progressive and moderate wings of the party.

Democrats must drastically reduce the amount of their measure, which may total $1.5 trillion to $1.9 trillion. While negotiating compromises on party goals have been difficult, Democrats think they are closer than ever to reaching legislation that would help parents, children, families, and seniors.

Furthermore, Democrats hope to vote on the trillion-dollar bipartisan infrastructure measure that has stalled in the House this week if they can agree on a framework this week. Progressives gathered together last month to withhold their support for the bipartisan bill unless Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona committed to a Democrat-only social safety net measure, according to a published report in Yahoo News.

Read Also: White House Scrambles After Biden's Remark To Defend Taiwan If China Attacks; Pentagon Makes an Apparent Error About the Critical Issue

Democrats are Now on the Track After Meeting Biden

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer of New York said Democrats are "on pace" to achieve a compromise after a weekend trip to Delaware, meeting Pres. Joe Biden, to resume discussions on the reconciliation bill, known as the Build Back Better Act.

On Sunday, he spoke with Biden and Manchin, and he continues to communicate with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi of California, as well as rank-and-file members. At the same time, Schumer told reporters at the Capitol that they still need to work on three or four problems. He highlighted that most of the reconciliation measures have already been prepared, according to a report published in Politico.

Schumer said Monday afternoon from the Senate floor that no one ever claimed that enacting transformative legislation would be simple, but they are on course to achieve so. Because it is vital, and it is what the American people want and desire.

Biden Wants To Secure the Deal Before His Trip Abroad

In a published article in Barrons, Biden said he wanted to achieve an agreement before traveling overseas to attend a United Nations climate change summit in Scotland beginning next week before leaving for New Jersey on Monday morning.

Meanwhile, the president has been touring the nation to promote both elements of his plan, the bipartisan bill and the reconciliation measure, particularly with two high-stakes governorship races coming up next Tuesday, notably in Virginia.

Despite Virginia's Democratic trend in recent elections, some Democrats have pushed the party to take up the bipartisan infrastructure bill right now to boost former Gov. Terry McAuliffe, who is seeking a second term but is locked in a close battle with Republican businessman Glenn Youngkin.

Some initiatives have been eliminated, such as tuition-free community college for two years, since Democrats' original $3.5 trillion packages would almost certainly be chopped in half. Others will be reduced, such as the child tax credit, which will only be extended for one year. And the status of key programs, such as paid family and medical leave and enhanced Medicare coverage, is still undetermined. Other crucial measures, such as universal pre-kindergarten, may be spared.

Related Article: Biden Invites in His House Top Democratic Lawmakers To Finalize His Proposed Spending Bill Before Departing for Europe; POTUS Pressing Democrats To Come to an Agreement

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Sudan is currently in turmoil after the country's military started a coup takeover, firing at crowds who have opposed the movement, resulting in the deaths of at least seven people and causing injuries to roughly 140 others.

The streets of Sudan were flooded with protesters after the region's armed forces dissolved civilian rule, arrested political leaders, and called a state of emergency on Monday. It was reported that soldiers had gone around visiting people's homes in the capital of Khartoum to arrest local protest organizers.

Sudan Military's Coup Attempt

Many nations worldwide have criticized the military's coup, and the United States has stopped sending aid to the region worth around $700 million. Gen. Abdel Fattah Burhan, the leader of the coup attempt, argued that military action was necessary due to the political infighting in Sudan.

Since longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir was overthrown two years ago, civilian leaders and their military counterparts have been at odds. On Monday night, a large gathering of protesters took to the streets of Khartoum and other cities to demand the military give back the government to civilians, the BBC reported.

The military was reported to have placed Sudanese Prime Minister Abdulla Hamdok under house arrest and urged him to support the coup takeover. The largest political party in Sudan, the Umma Party, has called on the country's people to protest against the military's takeover attempt.

Read Also: With Brian Laundrie Dead, Where Would Gabby Petito Slaying Probe Go Next? Fiance's Attorney Details Days of His Abduction

Amid the number of protests across the country, military troops opened fire on some of the crowds, killing two demonstrators and injuring 80 others. The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum urged Americans in Sudan to take shelter on Monday after indications of a military coup were sparked.

"The U.S. Embassy has received reports that armed forces are blocking certain areas in and around Khartoum. Internet in Khartoum is non-functional," the U.S. Embassy said in a statement, Fox News reported.

Thousands of Protesters

The Sudan military's coup takeover appears to have dealt a devastating blow to hopes for a democratic transition in one of the largest countries in Africa. Despite Gen. al-Burhan announcing the dissolution of the country's joint civilian-military government and imposition of a state of emergency, he vowed that elections scheduled for July 2023 would continue.

For weeks leading up to the coup takeover attempt, signs suggested the military was plotting a scheme. They have been unwilling to share power and intent on protecting their own interests fully.

In defense of the coup, Gen. al-Burhan argued that squabbling rival civilian political factions in the country were the primary reason for the coup. He said that what Sudan was experiencing due to the turmoil was the real threat to the region.

Thousands of people took to the streets soon after news of the coup attempt was released, flooding Khartoum. Television broadcasts showed people burning tires, causing plumes of smoke to rise into the city's sky. However, shortly after, the information ministry announced that internet service in the region had been halted, making it difficult to know what was happening in Sudan accurately, the New York Times reported.

Related Article: Russian Group Linked in SolarWinds Hacking Still Targeting Global Networks; New Efforts Prove Russia is Undeterred With US Sanctions

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A recently revealed court papers states that authorities in Alabama arrested a nurse practitioner suspected of abusing her 12-year-old adopted daughter with the intention of murdering her.

A grand jury in Jefferson County indicted Kala K. Blakely, 39, of Trussville, on counts of severe child abuse and attempted murder involving her adopted daughter on Friday.

Alabama nurse charged with child abuse

Blakely was taken into jail by officers from the Trussville Police Department on Friday night, following a multi-month investigation into claims that the nurse and assistant professor had been brutally abusing and neglecting the little child. According to the story, Blakely, who is married and has three other children, had only legally adopted the child.

Prosecutors accused Blakely of attempting to "intentionally cause the death" of her daughter through medical negligence, strangling, malnutrition, and beating her," according to the indictment obtained by AL.com.

Blakely's arrest was announced over the weekend by Trussville Police Chief Eric Rush, who said the investigation into the child began on January 21, when the child- whose name was not announced but who was described as Spanish-speaking- was taken to Children's of Alabama in Birmingham to be treated for a variety of medical conditions and ailments.

Hospital workers allegedly notified the Alabama Department of Human Resources, who subsequently reported the event to Trussville police, due to the severity of the child's condition, which physicians claimed was indicative of abuse.

The young girl was said to be thin, with bruises and lacerations on her back, legs, arms, and feet. Doctors allegedly gave Blakely precise instructions on how to care for her daughter after she was released from the hospital, but she disobeyed them all, according to police.

The investigation was a collaborative effort involving Trussville police, the Alabama Department of Human Resources, the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office, and the Birmingham-based Prescott House Child Advocacy Center.

Blakely's adoptive daughter is no longer under her care, according to reports. The Alabama nurse's lawyer is not listed in public records.

A request for comment from the Jefferson County District Attorney's Office was not immediately returned to Law&Crime. Blakely was the operator of Hometown Family Medicine until her arrest. In 2010 and 2013, she received her Master's and Doctorate of Science in Nursing from the University of Alabama in Birmingham, respectively.

Read Also: Fake COVID-19 Vaccine Card Selling On The Rise; What To Do When You Lost Your Proof of Vaccination?

An Opioid settlement aims to combat child abuse in Alabama

She also worked as an assistant professor at the University of Alabama in Birmingham's School of Nursing. Blakely was awarded the Nurse Practitioner State Award for Excellence by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners in 2018, according to UAB's website.

Online records revealed Blakely was booked into the Jefferson County Jail on Friday evening and remained there as of Monday afternoon. Her bail was set at $60,000 by a court.

More than $1 million - $1.5 million - from the McKinsey & Company opioid settlement will now go toward preventing child abuse in Alabama. The money was just given by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall to the Alabama Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention.

The investment might assist to lessen the negative consequences of opioid-addicted parents. According to the AG's office, a high majority of children in Alabama enter foster care as a result of parental substance misuse, and child abuse accounts for more than 60% of child removals from the family.

This is the third time the settlement payments have been allocated. It follows a February agreement between the state and McKinsey. According to the AGO, McKinsey aided the opioid problem "for more than a decade by promoting marketing strategies and consulting services to opioid producers, notably OxyContin maker Purdue Pharma."

According to the lawsuit, McKinsey advised Purdue on how to maximize earnings from their opioid product by focusing on opioid prescribers, using special terminology to persuade doctors to write more OxyContin prescriptions and circumventing pharmacy constraints to deliver high-dose prescriptions.

As part of the settlement, Alabama will get a total of $9 million. It's the first multistate opioid settlement in the US, and it will go a long way toward addressing the issue. To alleviate backlogs from opioid-related cases, some of the money will go to drug courts and the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, as per WAAY TV.

Related Article: Minnesota Shooting: 3 Suspects Arrested After Incident Leaves 1 Woman Dead, 14 Injured as Shootout Erupts in Crowded Bar



2YouTube

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China reveals a new anti-satellite weapon designed to knock out US satellites in orbit, causing a less effective US tough stance. Beijing's relentless development of various technologies has made it a superpower to watch, and even Russia, now considered pre-eminent superpowers.

Compared to the US, which is tapping its allies, both China and Russia have been actively deploying their military assets. China as a superpower has placed all its efforts to improve its military, while the US is divided, which allows the CCP to catch up.

China reveals new anti-satellite weapon

Chinese scientists have developed a less spectacular weapon than its alleged hyper glide vehicle (HPV), explosives designed to destroy satellites, reported the Express UK.

After Beijing showcased its new hypersonic missile, which surprised the US at its development, the American military also failed in its test.

Called an anti-satellite weapon which is placed in the probe exhaust nozzle and explodes like a time-controlled explosion, cite the SCMP.

The device will only damage the inner parts of the satellite after exploding, like an engine failure. Leaving the US, ground control was surprised their satellites had been knocked out. It leaves Washington and the Pentagon blind in space, with space capabilities canceled.

One catch is how the explosive is supposed to enter the space probe. For military planners, it is a novel way of destroying flashy lasers or missile launches. But it is a quiet attack, that's for sure, as China reveals its new anti-satellite weapon to be rolled out soon.

Read Also: China is Lining Up an Array of High-Tech Weapons To Overcome Taiwan When the Time Comes

Chinese spy-like weapon could sabotage US satellites in orbit

It is getting developed by scientists from Hunan Defence Industry Polytechnic in Xiangtan, by Professor Sun Yunzhong and his co-scientists. The basis of the weapons was published in a journal, and the device can be placed for delay explosions with a locking mechanism, noted the Swift Headline.

The scientists have designed it to detach as well remotely. This kind of tech will be a weapon-like spy action that includes sabotaging US satellites in orbit without the opposing military's knowledge.

But, such activities might escalate war brought into the confines of space if it goes wrong. But, it might not only be China causing it.

China is developing its space technology at a dizzying pace to have a deterrent to protect itself and not be at the mercy of any nation, not even the US.

It is no secret the United States is also planning its own set of space weapons, as the Pentagon is planning its specific development. Other American agencies feel that the government needs to speed up efforts to develop counter technologies and enable technologies that will ensure Washington's leadership.

Another is the need for more efforts to give NASA funding to keep up with China and Russia, having the weapons and means to reach Mars before the said two.

Increased activity in the realm of space which is now more active than ever. With a new for a new generation of space vehicles that are more powerful and reusable. One example is the Chinese Long March booster rocket. In planning, China reveals a new anti-satellite weapon that is determined to win the space race and make the US lag behind.

Related Article: US is Deeply Concerned About a Threat to its Vulnerable Defenses Despite the Chinese Denial of Launching Hypersonic Glide Missiles

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President Joe Biden's chief energy advisor has asked Russia to give Europe a greater natural gas supply before a new pipeline enters operating in order to reduce the possibility of gas shortages this winter.

Russia Asks To Provide More Gas in Europe

According to a recently published article in Newsweek, the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which would deliver gas over the Baltic Sea and straight into Europe, has yet to get final regulatory permission from the European Union and German authorities.

Meanwhile, regardless of whether the deal is approved, Amos Hochstein, Biden's senior advisor for global energy security, believes Russia has enough gas to expand deliveries to the EU and that it should do it "soon" most especially during the time of winter.

Hochisetin said to journalists via a briefing in Washington, "If Russia has the gas to supply Nord Stream 2, as they suggest, that means they have the gas to supply it through the Ukrainian GTS (gas transit system) or other pipelines as well, so they should do that," per Biztoc.

Read Also: German Chancellor Angela Merkel Warns Vladimir Putin Over Controversial Gas Pipeline That Might Be Used As Weapon Against Ukraine

Analysts Doubt That Russia Would Pump More Gas to Europe

Market analysts quickly deduced that the offer to boost supplies to Europe was likely made to put pressure on Germany to certify the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline, which will transport Russian gas supplies to Germany via the Baltic Sea. Russia is waiting for Germany's energy regulator to approve the $11 billion pipeline, which could take months.

Experts cautioned that Russia's offer showed how Europe is becoming more susceptible to Moscow's power to switch on and off, particularly gas supply, whenever it wants. While Russia's seeming generosity may have provided some relief to gas markets, experts have subsequently cautioned that Russia may not be able to keep its commitments to provide more, according to a report published in CNBC.

Furthermore, Mike Fulwood, a senior research fellow at the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, is skeptical that Russia will be able to send additional gas to Europe despite the fact that output is currently at record levels. For long years, authorities in the area and the United States have been concerned about Russia's dependability as an energy supplier to Europe.

Europe Imports About 90 Percent of Its Gas From Russia

About 90 percent of Europe's gas is imported from Russia. Natural gas prices have risen by up to five times since the beginning of the year. Even as gas prices have surged, Russia's state-controlled Gazprom has continued to deliver gas to European clients under long-term contracts but has not boosted supplies on the spot market.

Hochstein reiterated a September warning that if the approaching winter is harsher than normal, a shortage of gas and heat might cost lives in the most vulnerable towns. He said, " [The] problem that we are experiencing is not only about money and rising costs; it is really a life-threatening situation,"as reported in Nation World News

Needless to say, once it was nearly completed, the Biden administration abandoned attempts to stifle it with sanctions, instead of forging an agreement with Germany under which they would take action against Russia if it used gas as a weapon against Ukraine. Germany would assist Ukraine in its transition to green energy.

Related Article: US, Germany Reach Preliminary Agreement on Gas Pipeline Deal Amid Rising Tensions



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Following the death of her father King George VI in 1952, Queen Elizabeth II became the monarch of the United Kingdom. The Queen was only 25 years old when she took the throne over seven decades ago.

However, with her Platinum Jubilee coming up next year, the Queen has made no indication that she will stand down in favor of her son, Prince Charles. There has been talk in recent weeks about whether the Queen, who is now 95 years old, may ever choose to stand down from her royal duties, as per Express.co.

There is no sign Queen Elizabeth will step down as monarch

The Queen surprised the audience earlier this month when she politely declined to receive the Oldie of the Year award. However, following reports of the Queen's hospitalization last Wednesday, there has been widespread concern about her health in recent days.

The Queen's hectic schedule has been reduced as a result of her recent hospitalization, but she is expected to attend the COP26 summit in Glasgow next week. The Queen is still as committed to her royal position as ever with royal engagements on the horizon and a Platinum Jubilee weekend planned for next year.

So, why is it possible that the Queen will never quit her position as monarch? Abdication is uncommon in the Royal Family of the United Kingdom with the most recent incident causing a constitutional crisis.

In 1936, little than a year after assuming the throne, King Edward VIII elected to abdicate. Wallis Simpson, an American socialite who had been divorced twice, was Edward's dream wife.

The relationship, however, did not earn the approval of the church or large sections of the public since many people still opposed divorce at the time. Edward's withdrawal from royal life was precipitated by his failure to get consent for his love match, and the choice wreaked havoc on the Royal Family.

Following her recent hospitalization, Queen Elizabeth II will no longer attend official engagements alone in order to ensure that another royal is there in case she needs to cancel due to future health concerns, according to a source.

Last week, the 95-year-old queen had to "reluctantly" reschedule a trip to Northern Ireland in order to spend the night in a London hospital on Wednesday for "preliminary testing" on unidentified health issues, Page Six reported.

Read Also: Prince Charles "Reduced To Tears" After Hearing Prince William's Royal Inheritance Plan; What is the Duke's Bold Ambition?

Queen Elizabeth will no longer be allowed to attend events without companion

The royal family has established a new working model to ensure the aging queen is no longer scheduled to attend engagements on her own, insiders told The Telegraph, while she was back on "light duties" from her residence in Windsor Castle.

The fact that at least one other senior royal is already booked allows the queen, who is known for her stoicism, to cancel if necessary without disappointing the crowd with a full royal no-show.

The queen did not attend a church service on Sunday, and her participation at other scheduled engagements is doubtful since physicians have ordered her to rest.

Buckingham Palace has declined to comment on the Telegraph's article regarding the queen's new intention to have a second royal present at all of her engagements. "It's not uncommon for Her Majesty to be accompanied by family members," a source told The Times of London.

Related Article: Royal Fans Grow Worried About Queen Elizabeth's Health After Monarch Spotted in Public With Walking Stick



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Moderna revealed Monday that its COVID-19 vaccine elicited a significant immunological response in children and was well-tolerated.

Moderna's COVID-19 Vaccine Proves Higher Antibody Levels

In a recently published article in MSN News, Moderna discovered that children aged 6 to 11 years old who received two 50 microgram doses of the vaccine had 1.5 times greater antibody levels than immunized young adults in their trial.

The dose for the youngsters is half of the 100 micrograms used for the first two adult injections, but the booster shot is the same quantity approved. According to the pharmaceutical company, these youngsters had a "strong neutralizing antibody response" and a "favorable safety profile" with the vaccination, which is comparable with teenage and adult responses.

Meanwhile, the majority of adverse events were mild or severe, with tiredness, headache, fever, and injection site discomfort being the most common symptoms, according to a published report in Euro News. Additionally, more than 4,700 children between the ages of 6 and 11 were enrolled in the study, which will be followed for a year following the second injection.

Read Also: Moderna Claims Its Vaccine Shows a Robust Neutralizing Antibody Response for Children Between the Ages 6 and 11

Moderna Plans To Submit Data To the US FDA

Moderna said that it intends to submit data to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other agencies "in the near future," including in Europe. The data demonstrating efficacy and safety have "encouraged" Moderna CEO Stephane Bancel.

The CEO said, "We look forward to filing with regulators globally and remain committed to doing our part to help end the COVID-19 pandemic with a vaccine for adults and children of all ages," according to a recently published article in The Hill.

However, Moderna provided an executive summary of the findings, which have yet to be published in a peer-reviewed publication. The news comes only one day before an FDA advisory group will meet to evaluate data on Pfizer-COVID-19 BioNTech's vaccination for children aged 6 to 11.

Children Aged 12 to 15 Years Old Can Get Vaccinated

In May, the FDA approved the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children aged 12 to 15. Moderna said it is continuing to accept children aged 6 months to 5 years old for further studies, with roughly 5,700 youngsters registered in the United States and Canada.

In June, the vaccine producer asked that the FDA provide emergency use authorization for the vaccine to be given to 12-to-17-year-olds, but the FDA has yet to act on that request. Moderna's statistics showed that the COVID-19 vaccination was 100 percent effective against illnesses in that age range, prompting the submission.

Moreover, in a published article in Healthcare Finance, Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children aged 12 to 15 has been granted Emergency Use Authorization by the Food and Drug Administration, making it the first COVID-19 dose accessible for this age range.

The FDA's Emergency Use Authorization for the vaccination in people aged 16 and above, which was approved in December 2020, has now been extended. Adolescents still need two doses of the Pfizer vaccine, three weeks apart. The approval, according to Acting FDA Commissioner Dr. Janet Woodcock, is a "major milestone in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic."

Related Article: Kids Could Get Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine by October But Their Dosage Will Be Different From Adults; Here's Why



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Women and children in Haiti are at risk of dying if the country's fuel shortage problem is not addressed, according to the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF).

The lives of many pregnant women and newborns are in peril, according to UNICEF Deputy Representative for Haiti, Raoul de Torcy, who claimed on Sunday that hospitals responsible for providing them with life-saving treatment are unable to function, owing to a shortage of fuel.

They will die, he claims, if healthcare services fail to satisfy their demands. Because they don't have enough gasoline to power generators and keep emergency services functioning, several hospitals in Haiti have issued UNICEF distress alerts, Republic World reported.

Haiti fuel shortage risking lives, UNICEF warns

According to UNICEF, two major hospitals in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, are unable to function efficiently, endangering the lives of 300 children, 45 women in maternity hospitals, and 70 other individuals. The most vulnerable are about 150 COVID-19 patients in hospitals who require emergency care.

UNICEF secured a deal with a local firm to supply fuel to hospitals in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan region, but the supplier was unable to fulfill the contract. It has also aided in the construction of approximately 900 solar refrigerators in health institutions as a temporary alternative for keeping vaccinations in excellent condition.

A report released last week by a non-governmental organization said approximately 800 kidnappings have occurred in Haiti this year. Seventeen missionaries from the United States and Canada who were abducted by a gang while returning from a visit to an orphanage are still being held hostage, as per BBC.

The group has demanded a ransom of $1 million for each of them. Insecurity has risen dramatically in Haiti as criminal gangs have gained control of ever-larger swaths of land.

The gangs' power has risen even more as a result of the political unrest that has followed President Jovenel Mose's killing by mercenaries on July 7. Following a severe earthquake on August 14, several gangs declared a cease-fire to let humanitarian help reach the worst-affected communities, but they have subsequently resumed extorting, threatening, and in some cases kidnapping drivers.

Read Also: Russian Group Linked to SolarWinds Hacking Still Targeting Global Networks; New Efforts Prove Russia is Undeterred With US Sanctions

Haiti's companies' at risk of halting operations in the coming days

Due to frequent blackouts, many Haitian companies and organizations rely on diesel generators to provide electricity. Fuel deliveries are too perilous for truckers who are at risk of kidnapping or hijacking, according to transportation sector officials.

Per Global Times, UNICEF said it had an agreement with a local firm to supply fuel to hospitals in Port-au-Prince and Haiti's southern peninsula, which was hit by an earthquake in August, but the company backed out due to security concerns.

The inability to transport gasoline has prompted industry organizations, including the country's largest mobile service provider, to issue warnings that services may have to be halted in the coming days. A request for response from the government was not immediately returned.

"Many child-bearing mothers and newborn babies' lives are in jeopardy since hospitals that should provide them with life-saving treatment are unable to function regularly owing to a lack of fuel," said Raoul de Torcy, UNICEF Deputy Representative for Haiti.

Related Article: Taliban Offers Work-in-Trade Program for Wheat to Boost Employment Amid Afghanistan's Tumultuous Food Crisis



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Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell weighed in on Democrats' plan to fund their scaled-down social spending bill using a billionaires' tax, calling the proposal a "harebrained scheme."

In a statement on Monday, McConnell expressed his disagreement with the idea, arguing that having the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) penalize people who "invested wisely" and compensating people who "invested poorly" was poor judgment.

Mitch McConnell on Billionaires' Tax

The proposal that the official was criticizing was Senate Finance Committee Chair Ron Wyden's recent billionaires' tax that would impose annual taxes based on the increased value of assets of wealthy people. This includes assets that are not sold or "realized" because such things as stocks are only taxed when they are sold. This incentivizes people to keep them long-term and pass them onto the next generation.

It was previously reported that Wyden's proposal was different from Sen. Elizabeth Warren's ultramillionaire tax, which aimed to place a 2% on household net worth between $50 million and $1 billion. It also includes a 3% tax on household net worth over $1 billion. Previously, United States President Joe Biden indicated his support for Wyden's proposed bill, Business Insider reported.

McConnell's comments come as Democrats assert that they are getting closer to an agreement on the reconciliation measure that would address some of Biden's top priorities. The list includes climate change and the expansion of social programs. Democratic leaders are optimistic about seeing a vote on the not-yet-completed measure in the coming weeks.

Read Also: Families of Hostages, Detainees Abroad Question Joe Biden's Commitment to Their Release, Claims President Neglects Their Loved Ones

In his statement, the Senate minority leader said that the far left officials were controlling the entire country and are proposing a new "craziness" into the mix. He argued that Democrats were so desperate to raise taxes that they planned to tax money that U.S. residents have not even earned yet.

"Let me say that again. They're now proposing to tax money the American people haven't made yet. Yes, you heard me right. So much for the quaint idea that you had to actually make money first before the IRS could tax it, now Democrats want to tax money you haven't made yet," McConnell said, the New York Post reported.

Massive Spending Plan

U.S. President Biden and Democratic congressional leaders on Monday raced to strike a compromise regarding a domestic policy and climate package. The proposal would start its vote within days despite critical disagreements between lawmakers regarding health benefits, paid leave, environmental provisions, and how to pay for the plan remain.

Negotiators said they were nearing an agreement regarding the plan that could have a funding of $1.75 trillion over 10 years. The massive bill would be half the size of the blueprint that Democrats approved earlier this year. The plan includes an extension of monthly payments to families with children known as the Advanced Child Tax Credit.

The proposal would also establish generous tax incentives for clean energy use and provide federal support for child care, elder care, and universal prekindergarten. The bill also includes several tax increases, including the billionaires' tax, which would help pay for the initiatives, the New York Times reported.



Related Article: Biden Announces New COVID-19 Travel Requirements With Vaccine Mandates for Foreign Visitors, Restrictions for Unvaccinated Americans

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Joe Biden once again denied Donald Trump's request to cover up his involvement in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot.

On Monday, White House general counsel Dana Remus wrote a letter to archives director David Ferriero confirming that the POTUS did not change his stand regarding the release of the second batch of documents pertaining to the insurrection.

"President Biden has determined that an assertion of executive privilege is not in the best interests of the United States. Accordingly, President Biden does not uphold the former president's assertion of privilege," Remus wrote via the Huffington Post.

Joe Biden won't approve Trump's executive privilege request

Earlier this month, Remus released a statement saying that Biden denied Trump's request to assert executive privilege over the 47 documents that the House committee is looking into.

The White House general counsel added that executive privilege is only given to the current head of state. And it is also granted for the benefit of the country and its people.

However, not releasing the 47 documents to the public won't serve the public's interest because the Jan. 6 Capitol riot is regarded as the most serious attack on the government since the Civil War.

Despite Biden's decision not to grant Trump's request, Remus revealed that at least three out of the 47 documents might not be released to the public.

Remus said that the Select Committee had deferred its request for the following responsive records: Bates Numbers 000143-000179; 000398; 000879-000890.

Read Also: House Select Committee Issues 11 New Subpoenas Amid Capitol Riot Investigation; Trump Files Lawsuit To Protect Potential Evidence

Joe Biden, Donald Trump will butt heads in 2024

According to CNN, Biden's refusal to assert executive privilege over the second batch of documents may have profound political consequences now and during the 2024 election.

Since Biden already expressed his desire for re-election and Trump will also run in the 2024 election, the two leaders are in for an extraordinary and escalating clash.

The National Archives will start turning over documents to the White House committee by Nov. 12. The House select committee asked for all White House documents and communications on Jan. 6.

What happened during the Jan. 6 Capitol riot?

Trump's supporters broke into the US Capitol while lawmakers were counting Electoral College votes to confirm the victory of Biden.

The majority of the protesters came straight from Trump's "Save America Rally" rally.

While there, the ex-POTUS spoke to his supporters for approximately one hour and told them that the election had been stolen. He also declared himself as the rightful winner during the 2020 election.

During the rally, Trump also told his supporters that they could never take back the country with weakness.

"We fight like hell, and if you don't fight like hell, you're not going to have a country anymore. So we are going to walk down Pennsylvania Avenue - I love Pennsylvania Avenue - and we are going to the Capitol," Trump said via USA Today.

Shortly after, Trump's supporters flocked to the US Capitol to fight for their president.

Following the deadly attacks, Trump uploaded a lengthy video urging his supporters to go home and be peaceful. However, the harm had already been done.

Related Article: Joe Biden Approves Release of Documents Relating to Jan. 6 Capitol Riot; POTUS Could Remove Donald Trump's Executive Privilege

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Angelina Jolie recently graced the red-carpet premiere of her movie, the "Eternals" in Rome. The actress was joined by her two daughters, Zahara and Shiloh, at the event.

For the outing, Jolie donned a striking metal-mesh gown designed by Atelier Versace. Zahara, 16, wore a white and gold floor-length gown, while Shiloh, 15, wore a black sleeveless above-the-knee dress that she paired with her yellow sneakers.

According to USA Today, Shiloh stole the show with her black and yellow shoes, which she partnered with her black Versace dress.

Angelina Jolie's hair extensions looked uneven

However, it was Jolie's hair extensions that captured the attention of her supporters. After all, when the actress posed for a photo on the red carpet, eagle-eyed fans noticed that her hair extension wasn't appropriately clipped. As such, it looked as though Jolie's hair was cut in the middle.

"Her extensions literally look like a child clipped them in for her. I'm genuinely concerned as to why everyone in her entourage OK'd this and let her walk the red carpet? How many did she pass by on her way to the premiere who chose to stay silent? I'm mad for her!" one fan wrote via Yahoo! News.

Another Jolie fan said that whoever was responsible for putting the actress's hair extensions that night should be fired. A third fan said that Jolie didn't even need to wear any extensions.

Read Also: Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt Fight Over $164 Million Chateau Miraval Estate Amid Custody Battle

Angelina Jolie walked the red carpet with uneven makeup

However, this isn't the first fashion mishap that Jolie experienced on the red carpet. In 2014, Jolie and her ex-husband, Brad Pitt attended the premiere of "The Normal Heart." And Jolie's photos show that she had translucent makeup on her face and chest that had not appropriately blended.

But even if Jolie's makeup seemed off at the time, there was no denying how stunning the actress still looked in her all-black ensemble.

Shiloh Jolie-Pitt changed in recent years

Other than Jolie, her eldest biological daughter Shiloh has also made headlines since she joined her mom at the "Eternals" premiere.

Last week, Shiloh and her siblings accompanied their mom at the premiere in the United States. For the outing, the 15-year-old shocked everyone when she wore a stunning beige sleeveless dress. A week later, Shiloh rocked a black dress for the movie premiere in Rome.

While wearing a dress is not usually a big deal among teenagers, Jolie and Pitt's fans were shocked when Shiloh seemingly changed her wardrobe. After all, the teenager always went out in public wearing oversized sweaters, jeans, and shorts.

When Shiloh was much younger, fans thought that the young girl was androgynous, especially after Pitt shared a shocking detail about her.

During his interview with Oprah Winfrey, Pitt said that Shiloh wanted to be called John or Peter at home.

"She only wants to be called John. John or Peter. It's a Peter Pan thing. And then I'll say, 'John, would you like some orange juice?' And she goes, 'No!'" Pitt said via SCMP.

Jolie also said that Shiloh loves wearing tracksuits and suits, revealing that her daughter dresses like a boy because she wants to be a boy. And this is why they decided to cut Shiloh's hair while she was growing up.

Related Article: Angelina Jolie, The Weeknd Dating Rumors Continue To Fuel After Being Spotted in Second Dinner Date In Los Angeles

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Brian Laundrie's parents may face legal consequences after investigators have discovered the body of their 23-year-old son at a nearby park, according to experts.

Mark Geragos, a famed criminal defense lawyer, said he believes the Laundrie family could face legal liabilities if they assisted their son while he was on the run.

Geragos said that based on currently available evidence and information, the only exposure, potential liability, would come either after the issuance of the federal warrant or if Laundrie's parents assisted their son while he was considered a fugitive, Fox News reported.

Legal Consequences

Should investigators decide to pursue legal action against Laundrie's family, they can only accuse Chris and Robert Laundrie, the deceased fugitive's parents, of the crimes or actions he committed after the U.S. District Court of Wyoming issued a federal warrant for his arrest.

Prior to the discovery of his body on Thursday, Oct. 21, Brian was facing charges for allegedly using the credit card of his 22-year-old fiancee Gabby Petito to make purchases worth more than $1,000 between Aug. 30 and Sept. 1.

Petito's body was discovered near an underdeveloped camping site along the border of the Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming on Sept. 19. An autopsy report stated her cause of death as homicide by manual strangulation. The report also said Petito was likely killed at least three to four weeks before the discovery of her body, according to the Associated Press.

Read Also: Families of Hostages, Detainees Abroad Question Joe Biden's Commitment to Their Release, Claims President Neglects Their Loved Ones

Other experts have also questioned the timeline of events that occured on Wednesday last week, the day in which authorities discovered Brian's body in an area said to be previously submerged underwater.

During a search at the Myakkahatchee nature reserve last week, Chris-who, along with Roberta, joined investigators in the search-was the first to spot a dry bag belonging to his son. According to the account of their family lawyer Steven Bertolino, Chris, who took a path away from investigators, found the bag and did not want to leave it. This led him to pick up the dry bag and give it to investigators.

Mystery of Brian's Death

"He did meet up shortly with law enforcement, they looked at the contents of the bag. At that time, law enforcement officers showed him a picture on the phone of a backpack that law enforcement had located also nearby and also some distance off the trail," Bertolino told CNN.

While Bertolino insisted that a news camera crew and reporter were within view of Chris at the time of his discovery, former FBI profiler Mary Ellen O'Toole noted that it was unusual that family members would discover the evidence and give it to investigators during the search.

It is still unclear how Brian died. An initial autopsy of his skeletal remains came back inconclusive. Authorities have since sent his body to an anthropologist to determine the time and manner of his death.

Laundrie was last seen alive by his parents on Sept. 13 before he took off from their North Port, Florida home to go on a hike at nearby Carlton Reserve.



Related Article: Alabama Nurse Arrested After Abusing, Neglecting Adopted Daughter by Repeatedly Stomping, Starving Her

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Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey won't be imposing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate in the state. She recently released a statement saying that no one can be penalized for not getting vaccinated.

"I am adamantly opposed to federal mandates related to the Covid-19 vaccine and adamantly opposed to state mandates related to the Covid-19 vaccine, plain and simple. As long as I am your governor, the state of Alabama will not force anyone to take a Covid-19 vaccine," she said via CNN.

Gov. Kay Ivey vows never to impose vaccine mandates

In her statement, Ivey also said that if a penalty is given due to federal law, they will make sure to take the necessary steps to notify affected businesses or persons in Alabama. After all, the state doesn't approve, condone, or even endorse the imposition of such penalties. Employees and employers cannot also be penalized for refusing to comply with Biden's administration's mandate.

In September, the POTUS imposed new vaccine rules on federal workers, large employees, and healthcare staff to prevent the further spread of the virus. However, some Republican-run states have been opposing Biden's COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas and Gov. Ron DeSantis of Florida have also pushed back against the federal mandate. Earlier this month, Abbott released a statement banning all state entities from enforcing vaccine mandates. Last week, DeSantis said that he would be calling for a special session with the State legislature to discuss protections related to the vaccine mandates.

Read Also: NYC Mayor Bill de Blasio Announces New Vaccine Mandate With $500 Incentive For Municipal Workers

Joe Biden could exercise power to impose vaccine mandates

In September, Biden said he would use his power as the country's president to impose the COVID-19 vaccine mandate if the governors didn't help him out.

"I am so disappointed, particularly that some of the Republican governors have been so cavalier with the health of these kids, so cavalier with the health of their communities," he said via Fortune.

Gov. Kay Ivey vowed to stay in Joe Biden's way

At the time, Ivey fired back by saying that she would certainly stand in Biden's way. She also said that the POTUS could not move her out of the way because she would be standing as strong as a bull for Alabama.

Later that day, Ivey revealed that she had a conversation with Republican governors and said they are united in fighting back, according to Dothan Eagle.

Ivey also clarified that she has been encouraging residents of Alabama to get vaccinated against the deadly virus. However, she will never mandate it because the people should have the right to decide on whether they want to get the jab or not.

Governors opposing vaccine mandates have lower approval ratings

According to Politico, Republican governors crusading against the vaccine mandates are receiving lower approval ratings on their handling of the pandemic. However, none of these governors are worried.

The latest survey conducted by Covid States Project revealed that governors in states with COVID-19 vaccine mandates have a 52 percent approval rating.

However, governors in states without COVID-19 vaccine mandate only have between 36 to 42 percent approval rating.

Related Article: Biden Announces New COVID-19 Travel Requirements With Vaccine Mandates for Foreign Visitors, Restrictions for Unvaccinated Americans

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A 6-year-old boy who happens to be the only survivor of a cable car accident in Italy is caught in between his relatives' custody battle.

According to CNN, Eitan Biran's parents, two great-grandparents, and brother were killed after a cable snapped during a ride at the Stresa-Mottarone in May.

Biran, 6, is the only survivor of the crash but suffered some serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital to undergo surgery.

Eitan Biran's grandfather accused of abducting him

Shortly after he recovered, his grandfather, Shmulik Peleg, visited Biran in Italy and drove him across the border into Switzerland before they flew to Israel on a private jet.

Days later, Biran's aunt, who serves as his guardian in Italy, filed a complaint about the abduction of her nephew. However, Peleg insisted that Biran's parents wanted him to grow up in Israel.

The Court of Tel Aviv ruled that the 6-year-old boy should be with his aunt despite the grandfather's claims that keeping Biran in Israel is in his best interests.

Tel Aviv court sides with Eitan Biran's aunt, orders family to reconcile

According to the court, Biran should stay in Italy because this has been his home since he was two months old. They also said that the grandfather's actions were unlawful and violated Biran's aunt's custodial rights. Peleg was also ordered to pay $21 835 in court expenses.

Read Also: Two Express Trains in Pakistan Collide, Killing 51 and Injuring 100

Judge Iris Ilotovich-Segal urged Peleg and Biran's aunt to mend their differences for the young boy's sake.

"At the stage, we are at, it is of paramount importance to focus on the minor's medical and emotional condition and give him the support, care, and embrace he needs due to the tragedy that befell him and his family. Hope has not yet been lost in mending the rupture of the families, which was torn apart all at once in the shadow of the tragedy," Ilotovich-Segal said via the Times of Israel.

Cable car accident in Italy killed 14 people

In May, three men were arrested on manslaughter charges over northern Italy's fatal cable car accident. At the time, Carabiniere Lieutenant Colonel Alberto Cicognani confirmed that the three men admitted to what happened.

Prior to the accident, the three men revealed that the emergency brakes of the cable car were already malfunctioning. Since the brakes weren't working properly, it sometimes activates when it shouldn't, and it also stops the car while passengers are on board.

Two months after the tragic incident, Italy's public broadcaster Rai released footage of the cable car crashing to the ground. The clip shows the car nearing its final stop before it suddenly reared up and sped back down the mountain before crashing to the ground. Those that saw the clip slammed Rai TV for releasing the footage due to its inappropriate nature.

Prosecutor Olimpia Bossi confirmed that the families of those that died in the cable car crash were not informed that the footage would be released on television. Following the incident, the Italian Data Protection Authority urged media entities and individuals to stop sharing the clips out of respect to the victims' families, according to the BBC.

Related Article: Italy Cable Car Accident Deaths Rise to 14 People, Car Plunged Into the Wooded Area

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Evidence of a possible planet orbiting a star beyond the Milky Way galaxy has been spotted, NASA revealed.

NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory made the discovery, allowing further studies into exoplanets that are located farther than ever been detected, a statement on the U.S. space agency's website said. This possible candidate exoplanet is situated in the Messier 51 (M51) spiral galaxy, which is also known as the Whirlpool Galaxy. It is around 28 million light-years away from Earth.

These exoplanets are called as such since they are positioned outside of our Solar System. Most of the discovered and candidate exoplanets have been found just within the Milky Way galaxy that are less than around 3,000 light-years from Earth. This exoplanet in M51 could be thousands of times farther than similar planets in the Milky Way.

NASA Chandra X-Ray Images: Detection of Exoplanet Done at X-ray Wavelengths

Harvard and Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics scientist Rosanne Di Stefano, who led the study published in Nature Astronomy, disclosed that the search for exoplanets are being done at X-ray wavelengths, which makes it possible to find planets farther from our galaxy.

The NASA statement said the findings were based on transits, which is observed when planet in front of a star obstructs some of the star's light and generates that drop in optical light. Astronomers using Earth-based or space-borne telescopes, such as those on NASA's Kepler and TESS missions, have also sought for such dips in optical light or electromagnetic radiation that humans can observe, which makes the discovery of thousands of exoplanets possible.

Read Also: NASA Hubble Images: Space Telescope Captures Stunning Photo of Spiral Starburst Galaxy

Di Stefano told BBC News that her team's approach is the "only presently implementable method to discover planetary systems in other galaxies." She added it is a "unique method" that can find "planets around X-ray binaries at any distance from which we can measure a light curve."

Di Stefano's team scoured for optical light dips using the brightness of X-rays obtained from X-ray bright binaries, NASA further said. Such luminous systems characteristically encompass a neutron star or a black hole that draws in gas from a neighboring star. Material close to the neutron star or black hole would turn superheated, thereby emitting glows in X-rays.

Method Revealed in Spotting M51 Exoplanet

Since the area generating bright X-rays is small, a planet crossing in front of this region may obstruct most if not all of the X-rays, making the transit easier to detect as the X-rays can fully vanish from sight. This allows the detection of exoplanets at greater distances than present optical light transit analysis, which must spot small dips in light since the planet only obstructs a tiny fraction of the star.

NEW: Scientists may have detected evidence of a planet candidate orbiting a star outside our Milky Way galaxy for the first time. The exoplanet could be about the size of Saturn: https://t.co/yoeFcGn2RK



Have questions? Head over to @ChandraXRay for a Q&A. pic.twitter.com/TWNWKqnoMb  NASA (@NASA) October 25, 2021

Di Stefano's team utilized this approach in spotting the M51 exoplanet candidate in the binary system named M51-ULS-1. This binary system comprises a neutron star or black hole that is orbiting a nearby star having a mass of around 20 times our Sun. The X-ray transit the team discovered using Chandra went on for three hours, as the X-ray emission turned to zero.

Based on the study, the scientists approximate the exoplanet candidate to be around the size of Saturn, which is orbiting the neutron star or black hole around twice the distance of Saturn from the Sun.

Related Article: Deepest X-Ray Image Shows Thousands Of Massive Black Holes
In partnership with Disney, Diamond Select Toys has announced the release of the "Star Wars" Imperial Stormtrooper 7-inch action figure.

Aside from this, there are also other action figures available to order this coming holiday season, including Boba Fett and Darth Maul.

'Star Wars' Imperial Stormtrooper Price and Availability

According to Comic Book, the toys and collectibles company Diamond Select Toys will release a third action figure under their "Star Wars" and Disney partnership. The action figure is a 7-inch classic Stormtrooper character that features five interchangeable hands, three weapons, detachable blast effects, as well as 17 points of articulation.

Moreover, the "Star Wars" Imperial Stormtrooper action figure has an in-scale MSE or Mouse droid intended to have a good measure.

For a detailed definition, a mouse droid is a small box-shaped with wheels used for delivery and maintenance purposes.

"Nicknamed the mouse droid, the MSE is a nimble courier that delivers secure point-to-point communiques. MSEs are also used for simple maintenance tasks, including floor polishing and spot welding. If you see these droids zip by, give them a wide berth. It is best not to interfere with its high-priority delivery," Admiral Conan Antonio Motti explained in Imperial Handbook, per Fandom.

Furthermore, Diamond Select's 7-inch Imperial Stormtrooper Deluxe action figure is available to order at the shopDisney's site for $34.99. Comic Book added that the shop offers free shipping for a total purchase of $75 above using the voucher code SHIPMAGIC upon checking out.

Aside from the 7-inch Imperial Stormtrooper action figure, the Darth Maul figures and the 7-inch Boba Fett are also available to order on this site, which are both worth $24.99 each.

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George Lucas' Stormtrooper Action Figure

In a previous report by The Hollywood Reporter, Hasbro released a George Lucas Stormtrooper action figure last month. For those not in the know, George Lucas is the creator of the movie "Star Wars," and his action figure is part of the Black Series toy line.

The senior director of product design at Hasbro Vickie Stratford said that she is honored to bring the "Star Wars" characters to life in product form.

"When the opportunity came to design the George Lucas figure, we were especially excited for this project. This figure is just one of the many ways we can honor his legacy for years to come, and we hope fans cherish it as much as we did," Stratford furthered, per THR.

Unfortunately, the George Lucas Stormtrooper in disguise action figure is currently sold out at the Hasbro Pulse website.

For those who want it but not in a rush, the Big Bad Toy Store pre-orders the said action figure for $27.99. It is expected it to arrive by December 2021. Pre-orders are available on this site.

On the other hand, "Star Wars" wrote that the new George Lucas action figure is not the first time that the film icon has been brought to life in action figure form. In 2002, Hasbro also released a 3.75-inch rebel pilot Jorg Sacul which features the likeness of Lucas. While in 2006, Lucas also appeared as the 3.75-inch Stormtrooper as part of the Saga collection.

Related Article: 'Lego Star Wars' Halloween Special Trailer, Storyline: How to Watch Terrifying Tales
Facebook is finally taking legal action against one of its hackers. The company is suing a Ukrainian national for violating its terms of service and allegedly harvesting data of 178 million users on the platform. The complaint also asks for paid reparations for unspecified damages.

Sometime in December last year, 178 million Facebook users had their phone numbers and user IDs sold on the popular hacking forum RaidForums. The data was listed under the username "Solomame" and Barak_Obama." After an extensive investigation that spanned closed to a year, Facebook accused Alexander Alexandrovich Solonchenko as the cybercriminal responsible for the hack, per Techaeris.

Facebook Data Breach: Cybercriminal Brought to Court

According to Techxplore, Facebook filed the lawsuit last Thursday on the Northern District of California federal court. The lawsuit accuses the freelance programmer of using automated means to scrape phone numbers and Facebook user ID accounts between 2018 to 2019.

Allegedly, Solonchenko spent 21 months taking advantage of Facebook Messenger's now-defunct Contact Importer feature. He created millions of virtual Android devices that each had a different number and used them to automate requests on the Messenger app. The hacker performed phone number enumeration scraping and harvested publicly accessible user IDs and phone numbers.

Solonchenko eventually posted it on the hacker market palace with a caption: "I collected this database [of Facebook user IDs and phone numbers] during 2018y (sic), it's unique and nobody sales exact that leak (sic), I collected it by myself scanning [Facebook] day-by-day during a year (sic)," per techaeris.

It is also worth noting that Solonchenko allegedly sold data from a Ukrainian bank, private delivery service, and French data analytics company in the RaidForums.

Read Also: Fourth Stimulus Checks Update: $2000 Online Petition Grows, $600 Golden State Checks Delayed, New Mexico Payments Close

Facebook Leak and Security Protocols

In a report by TechRadar, Facebook emphasized that they strictly prohibit collecting data from its products through automated means. The company also prohibits selling data from its platform without written consent.

Since Solonchenko had at least two Facebook accounts, two Facebook apps, one Facebook page and five Instagram accounts, the cybercriminal must have agreed and breached the company's Terms of Service.

The lawsuit ended with a request for a restraining order on Solonchenko. He will be forbidden from accessing the company's products, services and websites on any of its platforms. Solonchenko was also asked to compensate Facebook for the cost of investigation, remediation and other related expenses. The exact amount was not specified.

The case is currently progressing, and both Solonchenko and the U.S. District Court have yet to make their response. More updates should be made available on the case later this year.

Although hacks and cybercriminal activities have continued to run rampant in the last few months, the company hopes this development will protect its users from falling into identity theft. Users are warned to be conscious of their information posted on the public on most social media platforms.



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A 16-year-old South Korean violinist finished second at a prestigious international competition in Italy earlier this week, his school announced Tuesday.







Chung Nurie took the second prize at the 56th International Paganini Prize Competition in Genova that ended Sunday, according to the Korea National University of Arts. He also has two other awards, including the prize for the youngest competitor.







Giuseppe Gibboni of Italy won the top prize, while Ava Bahari of Sweden and Lara Boschklor of Germany share third place.







The competition, named after Italian violinist and composer Niccolo Paganini (1782-1840), was founded in 1954 as a contest to discover new young talents.







It is regarded as one of the most respected competitions for young violinists, along with Queen Elisabeth Competition in Brussels. (Yonhap)






Participants in a memorandum of understanding signing ceremony for the construction of Sookmyung Women's University's "metaverse" campus pose at the university in Seoul, Monday. From the right are Shinhan Bank's digital group chief Jun Pil-hwan, Sookmyung Women's University President Chang Yun-keum, LG Uplus CEO Hwang Hyeon-sik and Mammo6 CEO Yoo Chul-ho. Shinhan Bank said Tuesday that the three companies agreed to help the university hold its campus festival next month via virtual reality. Courtesy of Shinhan Bank
Financial Services Commission Chairman Koh Seung-beom announces supplementary countermeasures against household debts at the Government Complex Seoul, Tuesday. Yonhap



FSC dismisses impact of tightened lending rules on low-income households



By Park Jae-hyuk



Concerns have emerged over the government's announcement on Tuesday that tightened lending rules will take effect six months earlier than initially planned.



The forthcoming regulations are intended to prevent the nation's snowballing level of household debt from dealing a blow to the domestic economy, but borrowers and financial experts have criticized the plan especially for stymieing housing purchases by lower-income households.



According to the Financial Services Commission (FSC), individual borrowers who have outstanding loans of more than 200 million won ($172,000) will be subject to stricter debt service ratio (DSR) rules starting in January. Those having outstanding loans of more than 100 million won will be subject to the regulations starting in July of next year.



Those who borrow money from nonbanking lenders, such as credit card issuers, savings banks and insurers, will also face stricter loan regulations starting in January.



The DSR is used to enable a household to take out a certain amount in loans in proportion to its annual income. The tightened rules will lower the maximum amount of money that each household can borrow.



"We will lower the household debt growth rate next year to around 4 percent to 5 percent, similar to the nominal GDP growth rate," FSC Chairman Koh Seung-beom said at a press conference.



Data from the FSC showed that the country's annual household debt growth rate had decreased from 8.1 percent in 2017, to 5.9 percent in 2018 and 4.1 percent in 2019. However, following the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise in asset prices, the household debt growth rate rose to 7.9 percent last year.



The government views this trend as the most serious threat to the Korean economy, amid the growing possibility of the imminent normalization of monetary policies in the U.S., including the Fed's "tapering."



From that standpoint, the FSC also asked financial firms to make more efforts to manage potential risks from household debts by drawing up plans on their lending every quarter.



"We will make financial firms lend their money more systematically, so that they do not stop extending their loans abruptly," the FSC chairman said.



The financial regulator did not rule out the possibility of tightening loan regulations further, if the upcoming rules fail to curb the excessive rise of household debts.



Some borrowers were confused with the government's announcement.



Internet forums on real estate and social media were flooded with questions from potential homebuyers, who asked whether they will be able to borrow money from banks.



Banking industry officials expect the new regulations will make it more difficult for low-income families to borrow money for housing purchases, increasing income inequality.



Real estate experts warned that stricter rules could reduce the trading volume of apartments, forcing low-income families to continue living in rental housing, instead of owning their own homes.



"Except for those who have a large amount of cash or rich parents, it will be more difficult for people to buy housing," KB Kookmin Bank real estate team head Park Won-kab said.



The FSC denied such concerns, citing that individual borrowers having outstanding loans of more than 200 million won account for only 13.2 percent of all borrowers.



In addition, loans for home rentals will not be subject to the tightened lending rules until the end of this year. Borrowers will also be able to take out unsecured loans in excess of their annual incomes if they plan to spend the money for weddings, funerals or surgery.


By Kang Seung-woo



The Moon Jae-in administration has refrained from firmly condemning North Korea's military provocations, a lawmaker said, Tuesday.





President Moon Jae-in / Yonhap




North Korea on Tuesday rebuked the U.N. special rapporteur on its human rights situation for "distorting our reality" and acting "at the urging of the United States" as the country responded to his recent criticism of the regime.







In the remarks carried by the North's official Korean Central News Agency, the spokesperson for the Korea Association for Human Rights Studies berated Tomas Ojea Quintana for having accused the North of rights violations during a recent U.N. General Assembly session.







"Recently, so-called 'special rapporteur' on the human rights situation in the DPRK has maliciously slandered our state at the United Nations, reeling off reckless remarks such as 'systematic human rights violation,' 'oppression of freedom of expression,'" the spokesman said.







DPRK stands for the North's official name, Democratic People's Republic of Korea.







"The 'special rapporteur,' not being content with distorting our reality, has pointed a finger at our 'people's livelihood' and viciously picked on the most realistic and appropriate anti-epidemic measures taken by our state for our own specific need," the spokesperson added.







The official also raised suspicion that the remarks by the special rapporteur could be a "scheme worked out at the urging of the United States."







In addition, the spokesperson requested the United Nations take an immediate step to create a new special rapporteur post mandated to oversee the human rights situation in the United States, which the official claims is suffering from "chronic human rights complications." (Yonhap)






Korea will provide an additional $5 million to a regional fund to help Southeast Asian nations increase their COVID-19 vaccination rates, President Moon Jae-in said Tuesday.







Moon made the pledge as he attended South Korea's annual group summit, held via video links, with leaders of member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) earlier in the day.







During the summit, Moon voiced concerns that a global economic recovery is being hampered by the rapid spread of the highly-contagious delta variant.







"Eventually, solidarity and cooperation are the only way to overcome the coronavirus crisis," Moon told the summit.







South Korea has actively participated in the COVID-19 ASEAN Response Fund and the regional reserve of essential medical supplies.







Moon also asked ASEAN leaders to support efforts to swiftly resume talks between South Korea and North Korea, as well as between North Korea and the United States for the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.







Talks with North Korea have largely stalled since February 2019, when a summit between then U.S. President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un ended without a deal.







In a joint statement, Moon and ASEAN leaders reaffirmed efforts to deepen their ties under Seoul's New Southern Policy, which aims to reduce South Korea's economic reliance on China.







They also recognized "the socio-economic challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic to the region and the need to undertake stronger regional cooperation to jointly address these challenges and establish a more resilient and sustainable future," according to the statement. (Yonhap)






President Moon Jae-in's security adviser said Tuesday it is difficult to predict whether another summit between Moon and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un can take place, citing "many uncertainties."







Suh Hoon, director of the National Security Office at the presidential office Cheong Wa Dae, made the remarks during a parliamentary audit, amid speculation Moon is pushing for another inter-Korean summit to help salvage his drive for lasting peace on the Korean Peninsula.







"We have just restored inter-Korean communication lines," Suh said. "Due to many uncertainties, it is difficult to make a prediction."







He was referring to the restoration of inter-Korean communication lines earlier this month in what is seen as an initial, symbolic step for cross-border reconciliation.







Suh stressed the government would not push for a summit as a "political event," as critics have said the Moon administration may be seeking to create a mood for peace ahead of the presidential election slated for March.







During the session, Suh said it is difficult to "conclusively" say whether North Korea can mount nuclear warheads on its short-range missiles amid security concerns triggered by a recent series of Pyongyang's missile tests.







The top security official also stressed South Korea's military has "sufficient" capabilities to respond to a series of new North Korean missiles under development.







The North has recently fired a series of missiles, including a submarine-launched ballistic missile earlier this month and a new hypersonic missile late last month  a show of force that raised questions of whether the South is ready to counter the evolving threats. (Yonhap)


Former President Roh Tae-woo takes the oaths of office during his inauguration ceremony at the National Assembly on Feb. 25, 1988. Yonhap



By Nam Hyun-woo



Former President Roh Tae-woo died Tuesday at the age of 88, leaving behind a checkered political career. He was the first Korean president sworn in through a direct election since 1971 and made efforts to broaden the country's international ties as well as introducing the country's National Health Insurance plan.



According to his aides, Roh was being treated at Seoul National University Hospital for a chronic illness, but failed to recover. He had not made any public appearance for nearly two decades after his health weakened following surgery for prostate cancer in 2002.



Roh was the 13th president of Korea serving from 1988 to 1993. Before taking office, he led the Democratic Justice Party, was a member of the 12th National Assembly, an interior minister and defense security commander.



Born in Dec. 4, 1932, in a rural area of Daegu, Roh entered the Korea Military Academy  after graduating high school  where he met Chun Doo-hwan, who was president before Roh.



During the early stages of the Park Chung-hee dictatorship (1963 to 1971), Roh and Chun founded a "private military group" called Hanahoe, whose members spearheaded a 1979 military coup, allowing Chun to seize power in the wake of Park's death.









Roh was given a number of key jobs in Chun's authoritarian administration, and named to succeed him during a June 10 "primary" of the Democratic Justice Party.





Former President Roh Tae-woo announces the June 29 Declaration, in which he accepted calls for a direct presidential election system, June 29, 1987. Yonhap



However, as pro-democracy demonstrations spread across the country, Roh accepted demands for a direct presidential election system through the June 29 Declaration, and the country's Constitution was amended to introduce this.



Despite the pro-democracy movement, the opposition were divided into multiple factions, thus allowing Roh to become president.



He is remembered by some for his election catchphrase "Ordinary man's era," which he used to dilute his image as a former general and successor to Chun.



During his tenure, he formed ties with socialist states and promoted inter-Korean exchanges. He also introduced a nationalized health service, which these days is regarded as one of the most advanced public healthcare systems in the world for its wide coverage.





Former Presidents Roh Tae-woo, second from left, and Chun Doo-hwan, right, hold hands as they stand trial for their role in the 1979 military coup and brutal crackdown on a 1980 pro-democracy movement in Gwangju, Aug. 26, 1996. Korea Times file
Shavkat Mirziyoyev poses after being declared the winner of the presidential election of Uzbekistan, Monday. Courtesy of Embassy of Uzbekistan in Korea



On Oct. 25, 2021, the Central Election Commission announced the preliminary results of the election of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.



In this regard, the Movement of Entrepreneurs and Businessmen  the Liberal Democratic Party of Uzbekistan held an event at the Humo Arena complex. It was attended by party activists and supporters.



The Central Election Commission's press conference on the preliminary results of the elections was broadcasted online. According to preliminary results, Shavkat Miromonovich Mirziyoyev won the election of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan with 80.1 percent of the total number of voters. Those present at the event greeted the news with joy and applause.



It can be said that this result was a reflection of strong support of the nation for the course of reforms and transformations, the results of which are clearly felt in the lives of Uzbek people and their confidence in the future. Over the past five years, an unprecedented large-scale work has been done under the leadership of Mirziyoyev. The spirit of renewal has reached every area. In accordance with the Action Strategy for five priority areas of development of the Republic of Uzbekistan in 2017-2021, the most important administrative, legal and economic reforms have been implemented.



During this period, the country's economy grew by 24 percent, industry by 34 percent, exports increased 1.5 times and the volume of foreign investments three times. The country's gross domestic product has reached $60 billion. Average monthly wages increased 2.2 times.



Extensive opportunities have been created for the development of regions, the expansion of industry and services. Hundreds of enterprises and factories and thousands of new jobs have appeared. Great innovative work has been done.



Practical effectiveness and human interests are at the forefront of reforms. Social-oriented programs have been implemented. Much attention was paid to the development of science, education, healthcare, culture and art, media and sports.



On the eve of the elections, the "New Uzbekistan" Strategy has been developed to continue this work, designed to consistently continue this work, to bring the development of the country and the life of Uzbek people to a new level. The objectives and content of the program were widely communicated to voters during the campaign meetings, and citizens believed in the success of the strategy.



Speaking at the event, Mirziyoyev thanked Uzbek people for the high level of trust placed in him.



"The trust of such a great nation is a great happiness for me! I express my deep gratitude to all my party members, our young men and women, dear mothers and fathers for the high trust and support shown to me. This trust gives me strength. And at the same time with all my heart I feel how huge this responsibility is," Mirziyoyev said.



It was noted that in the present alarming times many difficult trials have to be overcome, and the Uzbek people, having united, with their inherent diligence and dedication, achieved colossal successes.



"What kind of trials we have not passed over the past five years! They made us stronger. They brought us closer. We united. Today the world has seen again what a united people is capable of," the President said.



It was noted that this year's elections were held for the first time on the basis of the Electoral Code, in the spirit of democracy, openly and publicly.



"Observers came from many countries, major international organizations. They went to the polling station of their choice and saw the conditions created, that Uzbek people are not indifferent to tomorrow, that they actively participated in the elections, and that they came with their families to vote. This testifies to the spirit, mood and political culture of our people. In the meetings on the field, make relevant proposals for the improvement of each sphere of their city and district. There is also criticism. It is also the result of our life-changing, democratic reforms. I want to say it again: there is no going back. Now Uzbekistan is only moving forward," said Mirziyoyev.



The head of state thanked all foreign and local observers, members of the Central Election Commission, district and precinct election commissions and members of the media.



He also expressed gratitude to the candidates who participated in the presidential elections from other political parties.



"They also strive to develop Uzbekistan. Therefore, we will definitely incorporate their proposals that our people favor. Yesterday we were competitors, but now we need to act as one fist. I promise to make every effort and potential to justify the high trust of our people, to fulfill their dreams and aspirations, to ensure a prosperous life. We will all build a new Uzbekistan together," Mirziyoyev said.





This article is provided by the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Korea.


Former President Roh Tae-woo, left, stands with former President Chun Doo-hwan, at a court after being convicted of mutiny and corruption for their role in the 1979 military coup and in the crackdown on the 1980 Gwangju uprising, in this Dec. 1996, file photo. Korea Times file
Domestic airplanes are parked on the tarmac of Gimhae International Airport in this file photo taken Nov. 17, 2020. Yonhap



By Lee Hae-rin



Starting next month, the nation's regional airports, which have been dormant since the COVID-19 pandemic began early last year, will resume international flights, as more people are getting fully vaccinated.



According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, it will gradually ease restrictions on international flights, which were imposed in April last year, and resume international flight services on a regular basis next month for fully vaccinated people and those with a quarantine exemption certificate.



International flights will be available for foreign and Korean nationals abroad who have been fully vaccinated with Pfizer, Moderna, AstraZeneca or Janssen, two weeks prior to entry to the country.



Those granted quarantine exemptions can also board planes here after receiving quarantine exemption certificates issued by diplomatic establishments abroad for urgent and inevitable entry for business, academic, public or humanitarian reasons.










President Moon Jae-in held a meeting with presidential nominee Lee Jae-myung of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) on Tuesday in a move that could help solidify Lee's standing within the party after a bitter primary.







The tea meeting at Cheong Wa Dae came 16 days after Lee was nominated as the DP's presidential candidate on Oct. 10. It also came a day after Lee announced his resignation as Gyeonggi Province governor to focus on the presidential election scheduled for March 9.







Political parties are closely watching the meeting as to whether Moon and Lee will discuss sensitive issues like the corruption scandal surrounding a land development project undertaken in the city of Seongnam when Lee was its mayor.







The opposition party accuses Lee of wrongdoing and is calling for an independent counsel investigation.







Presidential officials said, however, that the two are unlikely to discuss any political or election issues because the president is required to remain politically neutral ahead of elections regardless of party affiliation.







Tuesday's meeting with Moon is expected to help Lee gain united support from the ruling party as the presidential nominee seeks to form an integrated team for his campaign in the wake of intense competition during the primary.







On Sunday, Lee met with former Prime Minister Lee Nak-yon, the runner-up in the DP presidential primary, and secured the former prime minister's promise to help Lee's campaign as an adviser.







Lee's campaign hopes to use the series of symbolic steps as a springboard to launch the nominee's election committee before the main opposition People Power Party picks its standard-bearer on Nov. 5.







Lee, however, continues to be dogged by questions about his possible involvement in the snowballing corruption scandal surrounding an apartment development project conducted in Seongnam in 2015 when he was the city's mayor.







Lee, a vocal supporter of a universal basic income and reconciliation with North Korea, was nominated as the ruling party's presidential candidate on Oct. 10.







Moon's single five-year term is to end in May next year and by law, he cannot seek reelection. (Yonhap)


President Moon Jae-in and ruling Democratic Party of Korea presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung pose before their tea meeting at Cheong Wa Dae, Tuesday. Yonhap



By Nam Hyun-woo



Ruling Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung met President Moon Jae-in, Tuesday, and promised to spare no effort in establishing the Moon administration "place in history."



This was seen as Lee attempting to style himself as a "rightful" successor to Moon, who is still enjoying a relatively high job approval rate though his presidency will end in less than 200 days, and pursuing unity in the ruling party, which was torn apart after a heated competition between presidential hopefuls during its primaries.



According to Cheong Wa Dae, Lee visited the presidential office and had a 50-minute meeting with the President over tea. During their conversation, Moon congratulated Lee on his victory in the primaries, saying "when you finish a competition, it is important to patch up all the wounds inflicted on each other to become one team."



Lee replied that the President had successfully pursued "the DPK's core values of caring for the people's livelihood, reform and peace so far," noting that he was also "a member of the Moon administration as the governor of Gyeonggi Province." Lee stepped down from this post Monday to run in the presidential election slated for March next year.



"I have been doing my best so far, but will go further so the success of the Moon administration and its legacy will go down in history," Lee said.



According to senior presidential secretary for political affairs Lee Chul-hee, who attended the meeting, Lee also apologized for his harsh criticism of Moon during the previous DPK primaries in 2017.



"I really wanted to apologize for being so harsh during the previous presidential election," he was quoted as saying. Secretary Lee said Moon replied in a relaxed manner: "Now you know how I felt back then as you have become the number one candidate."





President Moon Jae-in speaks to ruling Democratic Party of Korea presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung during their meeting at Cheong Wa Dae, Tuesday. Yonhap
By Bahk Eun-ji



Debate has resurfaced over the existence of the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, as leading conservative main opposition party presidential contender Yoon Seok-youl brought up the ministry's existence when he announced his election pledges last week.





Yoon Seok-youl /Yonhap
At stake is how to be reborn as EV maker



A consortium led by electric bus maker Edison Motors has been selected as the preferred bidder to acquire SsangYong Motor. If Edison and its auditor, EY Hanyoung, complete two weeks of due diligence on SsangYong and sign a formal contract next month, it will become the fifth owner of the debt-ridden carmaker. SsangYong has taken a uniquely tumultuous path, even in Korea's industrial scene full of corporate ups and downs. The company is living proof of all the economic turbulence this country has experienced in recent decades, such as the 1997-98 Asian financial crisis, takeovers by foreign capital and intense labor-management conflicts.



Since its founding in 1954 as a small car shop, several managers, both Korean and foreign, have taken over the company. Finally, in 2009, SsangYong's unionized workers seized the plant in Pyeongtaek, some 80 kilometers south of Seoul, protesting scheduled mass layoffs. The 77 days of desperate resistance and the consequent brutal crackdown that ended with several deaths left a big social scar. The incident's aftereffects continued so long that it even became the motive of "Squid Game," an original Korean drama on Netflix emerging as a global hit.



Most Koreans might be wishing Edison Motors' acquisition of SsangYong Motor will provide the troubled carmaker with an opportunity for a restart. The upcoming acquisition will likely be SsangYong's last chance for transformation from a combustion engine carmaker to an electric vehicle manufacturer. SsangYong's possible revival under a Korean consortium also comes as good news for the nation's auto industry and job market. Had the debt-ridden carmaker failed to find a new owner, it would have led to the loss of 200,000 jobs.



However, the company and its potential new manager have a long way to go before returning to normalcy. SsangYong recorded an operating loss of 177.9 billion won ($151.9 million) in the first half of the year, forcing its accounting firm to give a disclaimer audit opinion. It also needs massive investment for normalization. When global carmakers turn to EVs, concerns are mounting whether an electric bus maker with annual sales of 90 billion won can meet the financing necessary. Nevertheless, we hope SsangYong, an excellent SUV maker, will retrofit itself with innovation for EVs.


KT should go all-out to prevent recurrence



The sudden disruption of KT's wired and wireless communication network Monday is a reminder of how vulnerable a super-connected society is to an internet blackout. A large number of people suffered considerable inconvenience nationwide due to the disruption, which started around 11:20 a.m. and lasted 37 minutes. The outage hit almost all places including government offices, companies, schools, hospitals and restaurants.



KT, one of the country's leading telecom operators, cited a "routing error" as the reason for the incident. But the company caused confusion because it initially said the service stoppage was triggered by a large-scale distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attack on its network. KT should conduct a thorough probe in cooperation with the Ministry of Science and ICT to find out the exact cause of the service stoppage.



The network disruption is a cause for serious concern. That's why the ministry issued a Level 3 warning on its five-tier alert system. No one can overemphasize the importance of the stable operation of telecommunication networks which are essential to daily life and crucial to the nation's security. It was unprecedented to see the blackout paralyzing the internet, payment systems, banking operations, stock trading, video conferencing, online classes and many other services throughout the country.



Such a large-scale disruption usually causes not only inconvenience and chaos, but also inflicts massive damage on users. It could also pose a serious security threat to the country. Thus both the telecom operator and the government should make strenuous efforts to prevent a recurrence. The more we become dependent on internet connectivity, the greater risks we face from network outages. For this reason, the country must establish comprehensive preventive measures.



Now we have to ask: What have telecom operators and the government done so far to ensure the stability and security of the country's communication networks? The answer might be that they have failed to do their best to provide services without any glitches. If that is true, not only KT but also the regulators and policymakers should be held accountable for the mishap. In addition, KT must pay compensation to its network users for their losses.



The service disruption came almost three years after KT saw a similar blackout due to a fire at an underground network center in Ahyeon-dong, western Seoul, in November 2018. KT appears to have failed to learn a lesson from that incident. The company cannot avoid criticism for neglecting to fix its structural problems, let alone technical glitches, to provide better services.



Monday's internet blackout should be a wakeup call to our wired society. It also must serve as an opportunity to set up a safer, flawless telecommunication network in this digital age. Otherwise, we have to pay the price for technical glitches, human errors or cyberattacks.


By Lee Seong-hyon





With President Moon Jae-in's term winding down, and with Seoul and Beijing's relationship to mark their 30th anniversary next year, now may be an appropriate time to pause and ask some questions about the quality of Moon's diplomatic outreach to China  from the Chinese perspective.



One of the interesting questions is this: Moon is known to be the most "pro-China" South Korean leader in recent decades. Then, why hasn't Chinese leader Xi Jinping attempted a single visit to South Korea during Moon's term, despite Moon's repeated invitations?



COVID-19 serves as a convenient diplomatic cover. Both Seoul and Beijing officials often cite it as the primary reason. But interviews with Chinese interlocutors reveal a more nuanced picture.



Even during the pandemic period, for instance, Xi has fielded numerous virtual summits with many state leaders. Xi has one scheduled with President Biden next month too. But there are none scheduled with Moon. There have been no announcements of a summit scheduled with Moon in the near future.



This situation warrants further probing. This author's preliminary research reveals that the Chinese side doesn't see the necessity of holding a summit with Moon.



From China's perspective, there are two occasions that warrant a summit: one, when its relationship with another nation is supremely good (this condition includes the compatibility of their state ideology, say, North Korea), and two, when the relationship is not necessarily good, but the other nation is important enough that they feel the need to sort out their issues at the top leadership level (in the case of, say, the U.S.).



"South Korea belongs to neither category," one interlocutor told me.



It all started with THAAD. It sowed discord in bilateral relations between the two countries, as we know. The THAAD issue has as its substance the issue of security, but from the Chinese view, it also has a problem of style in the way that the Moon government conveyed the matter with China. And that boils down to inconsistency in messaging.



Back in January 2017 when Moon was a presidential candidate, he took the position that the THAAD deployment decision should be postponed for the next president to decide. China saw this strategic ambiguity posture as favoring China. China came to have such a view because Moon's interlocutors hinted that Moon, once elected, would not approve of the deployment of THAAD.



When the incumbent President Park Geun-hye in 2016 made a public announcement about the deployment of THAAD, Moon's interlocutors still assured the Chinese side that Moon would reverse the move. He did not.



After getting elected, Moon referred to the THAAD deployment as something "temporary," leaving leeway. For a while, such messaging gave hope to the Chinese side. However, the Chinese side got frustrated when the "temporary" deployment actually become a "permanent" one through the course of Moon's presidency until today.



When the Chinese side took issue with the THAAD's powerful radar facing China, Moon's interlocutors told them that the direction of the radar could be reoriented, so that it would not face the Chinese side. But at that time they weren't sure whether the South Korean side has authority over the U.S. military asset operated by the U.S. military personnel inside a U.S. military base in South Korea. South Korea doesn't.



The ritual of Seoul sending mixed messages, stretched over a year, really frustrated the Chinese interlocutors, who also felt heat when they reported it to the senior Chinese leadership, who got angry and also felt humiliated.



Slowly and gradually, the Chinese side developed distrust toward the Moon administration and its wordings. Recently, the Chinese side reportedly also concluded that the Moon administration's so-called "3-No Promise" doesn't hold water.



"The Moon government says one thing and does another," said a Chinese scholar who advises the government. "We have a trust problem with the Moon administration."



The "3-No Promise" refers to the Moon government's assurance to China that there will be no additional THAAD, no joining the U.S. missile defense network and no Korea-U.S.-Japan trilateral military alliance. The South Korean government officially calls it "positions," not "promises." However, Moon's critics called it "humiliating diplomacy."



China's distrust toward Moon deepened after Moon held a summit with Biden in Washington. The joint statement mentioned not only the "South China Sea," but also "Taiwan." The latter's inclusion really upset the Chinese side, prompting the Chinese side to embark on a "fact-finding" mission via Zoom conferences with South Koreans.



"Let's say that China and South Korea hold a summit. That will help Moon's political party in the upcoming election. But how can it help China?" posed a Chinese interlocutor.





Lee Seong-hyon, Ph.D. (sunnybbsfs@gmail.com), is a visiting scholar at Harvard University's Fairbank Center for Chinese Studies.


In this Oct. 23, 2019, file photo, a Facebook employee walks by a sign displaying the "like" sign at Facebook's corporate headquarters campus in Menlo Park, Calif. AFP-Yonhap



Amid fallout from the Facebook Papers documents supporting claims that the social network has valued financial success over user safety, Facebook on Monday reported higher profit for the latest quarter.



The company's latest show of financial strength followed an avalanche of reports on the Facebook Papers  a vast trove of redacted internal documents obtained by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press  as well as Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen's Monday testimony to British lawmakers.



Facebook said its net income grew 17 percent in the July-September period to $9.19 billion, buoyed by strong advertising revenue. That's up from $7.85 billion a year earlier. Revenue grew 35 percent to $29.01 billion. The results exceeded analyst expectations for Facebook's results.



The company's shares rose 2.5 percent in after-hours trading after closing up 1 percent for the day.



''For now, the revenue picture for Facebook looks as good as can be expected,'' said eMarketer analyst Debra Aho Williamson. But she predicted more revelations and described the findings so far as ''unsettling and stomach-churning.''



CEO Mark Zuckerberg made only a brief mention of what he called the ''recent debate around our company.'' Largely repeating statements he made after Haugen's Oct. 5 testimony before a U.S. Senate subcommittee, he insisted that he welcomes ''good faith criticism'' but considers the current storm a ''coordinated effort'' to paint a ''false picture'' of the company based on leaked documents.



''It makes a good soundbite to say that we don't solve these impossible tradeoffs because we're just focused on making money, but the reality is these questions are not primarily about our business, but about balancing difficult social values,'' Zuckerberg said.





Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen leaves after giving evidence to the joint committee for the Draft Online Safety Bill, as part of British government plans for social media regulation, at the Houses of Parliament, London, Oct. 25. AP-Yonhap



Haugen, meanwhile, told a British parliamentary committee Monday that the social media giant stokes online hate and extremism, fails to protect children from harmful content and lacks any incentive to fix the problems, providing momentum for efforts by European governments working on stricter regulation of tech companies.



While her testimony echoed much of what she told the U.S. Senate this month, her in-person appearance drew intense interest from a British parliamentary committee that is much further along in drawing up legislation to rein in the power of social media companies.



Haugen told the committee of United Kingdom lawmakers that Facebook Groups amplifies online hate, saying algorithms that prioritize engagement take people with mainstream interests and push them to the extremes. The former Facebook data scientist said the company could add moderators to prevent groups over a certain size from being used to spread extremist views.



''Unquestionably, it's making hate worse,'' she said.



Haugen said she was ''shocked'' to hear that Facebook wants to double down on what Zuckerberg calls ''the metaverse,'' the company's plan for an immersive online world it believes will be the next big internet trend.



''They're gonna hire 10,000 engineers in Europe to work on the metaverse,'' Haugen said. ''I was like, 'Wow, do you know what we could have done with safety if we had 10,000 more engineers?''' she said.





In this Oct. 23, 2019, file photo, Facebook Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg testifies before the House Financial Services Committee on "An Examination of Facebook and Its Impact on the Financial Services and Housing Sectors" in the Rayburn House Office Building in Washington. AFP-Yonhap


Telecom firm to compensate for damage



By Kim Bo-eun



Routing errors by KT employees caused the company's nationwide network services disruption a day earlier, the telecommunications firm said Tuesday, pledging to compensate customers for any losses caused by the incident.



"We confirmed that the disruption was caused by errors in designating network routes, which took place while switching to the latest equipment to upgrade services," said a statement issued by KT CEO Ku Hyeon-mo.



"We will take this as an opportunity to thoroughly examine the entirety of our wired and wireless networks. We will also swiftly come up with a compensation plan."



A KT official said details of the compensation plan will be decided after looking into the damage caused. KT's contracts state the company is required to provide compensation when subscribers of mobile phone plans, high-speed internet and IPTV are denied access to services for at least three consecutive hours.



KT's internet network error disabled both wired and wireless services from around 11:20 a.m. to noon, leaving some service users unable to make calls. Most services were back by noon, but some disruptions lasted longer.



Service disruptions impacted operations at restaurants, where card payments were disabled, and orders via ordering platforms failed to be registered. Taxi drivers experienced disruptions in navigation services and incoming calls.



Hospitals experienced delays in checking patients' personal records. The education ministry said a total of 7,742 schools, kindergartens and other institutions nationwide experienced disruptions. Schools became exposed to greater disruptions, as classes have been held online amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Classes were canceled and some schools had to postpone exams.





A medical center in the southwestern city of Gwangju affected by KT's network disruption is crowded with people seeking health checkups and flu shots, Monday. Yonhap
Tesla CEO Elon Musk gestures as he visits the construction site of Tesla's Gigafactory in Gruenheide near Berlin, Aug. 13. Reuters-Yonhap



Hertz announced Monday that it will buy 100,000 electric vehicles from Tesla, one of the largest purchases of battery-powered cars in history and the latest evidence of the nation's increasing commitment to EV technology.



The news of the deal triggered a rally in Tesla's stock, driving the carmaker's market value over the $1 trillion mark for the first time.



The purchase by one of the world's leading rental car companies reflects its confidence that electric vehicles are gaining acceptance with environmentally minded consumers as an alternative to vehicles powered by petroleum-burning internal combustion engines.



In an interview with The Associated Press, Mark Fields, Hertz' interim CEO, said that Teslas are already arriving at the company's sites and should be available for rental starting in November.



Hertz said in its announcement that it will complete its purchases of the Tesla Model 3 small cars by the end of 2022. It also said it will establish its own electric vehicle charging network as it strives to produce the largest rental fleet of electric vehicles in North America.



Fields wouldn't say how much Hertz is spending for the order. But he said the company has sufficient capital and a healthy balance sheet after having emerged from bankruptcy protection in June.



The deal likely is worth around $4 billion because each Model 3 has a base price of about $40,000. It also ranks at the top of the list of electric vehicle orders by a single company. In 2019, Amazon ordered 100,000 electric delivery vans from Rivian, a startup manufacturer of electric van, pickup trucks and SUVs. Amazon is an investor in Rivian.





A general view of construction site of the Tesla Gigafactory in Austin, Texas, Oct. 25. Reuters-Yonhap




The first batch of 2.43 million doses of Moderna vaccines manufactured by South Korean biopharmaceutical firm Samsung Biologics Co. will be provided here this week, health authorities said Tuesday.







In May, the biotech unit of Samsung Group signed a contract with the U.S. drugmaker to provide contract manufacturing organization (CMO) services for its mRNA vaccine at its local plant.







The contract was signed during a South Korea-U.S. vaccine partnership event held in Washington, D.C., in May this year, with President Moon Jae-in attendance.







The authorities said the Moderna vaccines will be used to administer both first and second shots, as well as for booster shots.







It marks the second time that COVID-19 vaccines manufactured in the country are used for inoculating South Koreans.







SK Bioscience Co., a vaccine development subsidiary of South Korea's SK Group, also has been producing COVID-19 vaccine by British-Swedish pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca and Oxford University here.







As of Tuesday, a total of 40.84 million people, or 79.5 percent of the country's 52 million population, have received their first shots of COVID-19 vaccines since February when the country began its inoculation campaign. The number of fully vaccinated people reached 36.42 million, or 70.9 percent. (Yonhap)


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By Yoon Ja-young



Online secondhand markets were typically places to buy and sell small, miscellaneous items, but they are expanding quickly in terms of the range of products. An increasing number of people in the country are putting luxurious goods and even gold bars up for sale and such transactions are raising suspicion of attempting to avoid taxes.



According to Rep. Park Hong-keun of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea, luxury watches and gold bars were traded on the secondhand marketplace application, Danggeun Market. There were a number of Rolex watches, priced between 56 million won ($48,000) and 93.5 million won, as well as a 30 million won gold bar up for sale.



Recently, a Danggeun Market user in Seocho District, southern Seoul, made headlines after she was found to have posted around 13 billion won ($11.13 million) worth of luxury goods for sale on the app. Among the items she uploaded for sale was a Rolex GMT Master 2 watch with a 165 million won price tag, two Piaget watches costing 89.99 million won and 82 million won, respectively, and a Rolex Day Date with a 48 million won price tag. A 6.55 million won Van Cleef bracelet and a 17 million won Sapphire ring were also among the items on her list and the app showed that many of the items she put up for sale were sold as they were priced "reasonably low" according to those who purchased her goods.





Rolex watches traded on Danggeun Market




POSCO Group Chairman Choi Jeong-woo gives the opening speech at the Hydrogen Iron & Steel Making Forum 2021, at the Grand InterContinental Seoul Parnas, Oct. 6. Courtesy of POSCO Group
Japan's former Princess Mako, right, the elder daughter of Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, and her husband Kei Komuro, look at each other during a press conference to announce their wedding at a hotel in Tokyo, Oct. 26. AP-Yonhap



Japan's Princess Mako, the emperor's niece, has married her commoner college sweetheart on Tuesday and left the royal family after a years-long engagement beset by scrutiny that has left the princess with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).



Mako and fiance Kei Komuro, both 30, announced their engagement four years ago, a move initially cheered by the country. But things soon turned sour as tabloids reported on a money scandal involving Komuro's mother, prompting the press to turn on him. The marriage was postponed, and he left Japan for law studies in New York in 2018 only to return in September.



Their marriage consisted of an official from the Imperial Household Agency (IHA), which runs the family's lives, submitting paperwork to a local office in the morning, foregoing the numerous rituals and ceremonies usual to royal weddings, including a reception.



Mako also refused to receive a one-off payment of about $1.3 million typically made to royal women who marry commoners and become ordinary citizens, in line with Japanese law.



Television footage showed Mako, wearing a pastel dress and pearls, saying goodbye to her parents and 26-year-old sister, Kako, at the entrance to their home. Though all wore masks in line with Japan's coronavirus protocol, her mother could be seen blinking rapidly, as if to fight off tears.





Japan's Princess Mako, right, hugs her sister Princess Kako, watched by her parents Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, before leaving her home in Akasaka Estate in Tokyo, Oct. 26. AP-Yonhap



Though Mako bowed formally to her parents, her sister grabbed her shoulders and the two shared a long embrace.



In the afternoon, Mako and her new husband will hold a news conference, which will also depart from custom. While royals typically answer pre-submitted questions at such events, the couple will make a brief statement and hand out written replies to the questions instead.



"Some of the questions took mistaken information as fact and upset the princess," said officials at the IHA, according to NHK public television.



Komuro, dressed in a crisp dark suit and tie, bowed briefly to camera crews gathered outside his home as he left in the morning but said nothing. His casual demeanor on returning to Japan, including long hair tied back in a ponytail, had sent tabloids into a frenzy.





Protesters hold banners during a march against the marriage between Japan's Princess Mako and her fiance Kei Komuro, Tokyo, Oct. 26. Reuters-Yonhap
Sudanese people protest against a military coup that overthrew the transition to civilian rule, in the al-Shajara district, southern Khartoum, Oct. 25. AFP-Yonhap



Sudan's military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the prime minister, and thousands flooded the streets to protest the coup that threatened the country's shaky progress toward democracy.



Security forces opened fire on some of them, and three protesters were killed, according to the Sudan Doctors' Committee, which also said 80 people were wounded.



The takeover, which drew condemnation from the United Nations, the United States and the European Union, comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was supposed to hand the leadership of the council that runs the country over to civilians.



The U.N. Security Council scheduled an emergency closed meeting on the Sudan coup late Tuesday afternoon. The United States, United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Norway and Estonia requested the emergency consultations.





Prime Minister of Sudan Abdalla Hamdok delivers a statement at the German federal chancellery in Berlin, Feb. 14, 2020. Hamdok was placed under house arrest by a military unit after he refused to support an ongoing coup, according to Sudan's information ministry. EPA-Yonhap



After the early morning arrests of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other senior officials, thousands demonstrated in the streets of the capital, Khartoum, and its twin city of Omdurman. They blocked streets and set fire to tires as security forces used tear gas to disperse them.



As plumes of smoke rose, protesters could be heard chanting, ''The people are stronger, stronger!'' and ''Retreat is not an option!'' Social media video showed crowds crossing bridges over the Nile to the center of the capital. The U.S. Embassy warned that troops were blocking parts of the city and urged the military ''to immediately cease violence.''



Pro-democracy activist Dura Gambo said paramilitary forces chased protesters through some Khartoum neighborhoods.



Records from a Khartoum hospital obtained by The Associated Press showed some people admitted with gunshot wounds.





In this frame taken from a video, the head of the military, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, announced in a televised address that he was dissolving the country's ruling Sovereign Council, as well as the government led by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, in Khartoum, Sudan, Oct. 25. AP-Yonhap



The head of the military, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, announced on national TV that he was dissolving the government and the Sovereign Council, a joint military and civilian body created soon after al-Bashir's ouster to run the country.



Burhan said quarrels among political factions prompted the military intervention. Tensions have been rising for weeks over the course and the pace of the transition to democracy in Sudan, a nation in Africa linked by language and culture to the Arab world.



The general declared a state of emergency and said the military will appoint a technocratic government to lead the country to elections, set for July 2023. But he made clear the military will remain in charge.



''The Armed Forces will continue completing the democratic transition until the handover of the country's leadership to a civilian, elected government,'' he said. He added that the constitution would be rewritten and a legislative body would be formed with the participation of ''young men and women who made this revolution.''



The Information Ministry, still loyal to the dissolved government, called his speech an ''announcement of a seizure of power by military coup.''



As darkness fell in Khartoum, barricades were still burning and occasional gunshots could be heard, said Volker Perthes, the U.N. special envoy for Sudan, at a briefing in New York.





Sudanese protesters use bricks and burning tires to block 60th Street in the capital Khartoum, to denounce overnight detentions by the army of members of Sudan's government, Oct. 25. AFP-Yonhap



President Joe Biden was briefed on Sudan in the morning, said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre. She added that the U.S. was ''deeply alarmed at reports of a military takeover'' and called for the immediate release of the prime minister and other officials.



''The actions today are in stark opposition to the will of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace, liberty and justice,'' Jean-Pierre said.



The Biden administration is suspending $700 million in emergency economic aid to Sudan that had been allocated to help the transition, said State Department spokesman Ned Price. He called it a ''pause,'' and urged the civilian-led government be immediately restored.



U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres ''strongly condemns the ongoing military coup d'etat in Khartoum and all actions that could jeopardize Sudan's political transition and stability,'' said his spokesman, spokesman Stephane Dujarric.



Guterres also called for the release of the government officials, the spokesman said, as did the African Union. EU foreign affairs chief Joseph Borrell tweeted that he was following the events with the ''utmost concern.''



Michelle Bachelet, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, warned that Sudan could slip backward, urging the military to free the officials, withdraw from the streets and settle differences with the transitional government through dialogue.





Thousands of pro-democracy protesters take to the streets to condemn a takeover by military officials in Khartoum, Sudan, Oct. 25. AP-Yonhap
Anti-gun violence advocate LaWanda Hawkins, whose son and sister were killed by guns, shows her T-shirt adorned with the faces of 40 children who died, 39 of them by gun violence.


Product Manager, Payments Santa Clara Valley (Cupertino) , California , United States Marketing Summary

Posted: Oct 22, 2021 Weekly Hours: 40 Role Number: 200303650 Do you love to create groundbreaking ideas? Do you enjoy collaborating with coworkers and making lasting connections with others? As part of our Retail Commerce and Digital Experience Product team, you'll help craft a seamless, high-quality digital retail experience for our customers. Join our team, and you'll help Apple make sure our customers experience an online shopping experience like no other! Apple is looking for a talented Product Manager to help define and execute payment experiences for the Apple Online store. You will be responsible for enhancing the online store offerings. You will collaborate with key business partners to define the payments initiatives and lead cross functional teams to ensure successful execution of these initiatives. Key Qualifications Singular focus on customer experience and a demonstrated experience in monthly payments (buy now pay later) and consumer financing

Ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization to keep them engaged in making key decisions and apprised of progress.

Ability to challenge and debate issues of importance to identify the best possible outcome for the customer.

Strong verbal/presentation and written communication skills.

Operates independently. Possess strong decision-making, problem solving and prioritization skills; ability to manage multiple projects with competing priorities.

Confident in ability to listen, and build consensus across a large matrixed organization to handle user problems, achieve objectives and deliver results.

Strong organization skills and program/project management capabilities

Ability to simplify complex problems and issues in an easy to understand manner.

Ability to understand technical matters outside personal area of expertise, and synthesize for broad discussions

7+ years Product Management leading consumer products experiences Experience with designing front-end eCommerce experiences, preferred transactional experience. Description In this role you define scope that is critical for a successful launch of experiences on Apple Online Store. You will demonstrate the desire to deliver an ideal customer experience to push for the resolution of various business, regulatory and technical constraints. In the process you will collaborate with disparate cross functional teams including marketing, sales and service, engineering, tax, operations, finance, legal and many more to structure business models, define scope and communicate final recommendations. You know and understand the payments and financing ecosystem, trends in the space and have developed seamless payments experiences. You will develop a broad knowledge of the systems involved and use that to inform creative solutions when roadblocks occur. You will work closely with the business teams on launch strategy and execution. The successful candidate will be skilled at seeking, filtering and incorporating information from subject matter experts and thrives in a fast-paced, customer focused e-commerce environment. This person should have proven success as a product leader, and be able to provide examples of delivering complex large scale, initiatives to market as well as successfully working, navigating and aligning cross-functional teams. Education & Experience




WSU Tri-Cities is seeking an Office Assistant with a work location in Richland, WA. Position will perform a variety of complex clerical and administrative duties in support of the GEAR UP Programs department. Responsibilities include processing purchase requests, travel documents and property inventory; supporting administration staff with data entry, spreadsheet maintenance, and record keeping systems; and responding to inquiries regarding programs. High School graduation or equivalent and two (2) years of clerical experience; OR equivalent education/experience is required. Additional Requirements: Strong written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

Strong organizational skills; ability to respond to a variety of issues and daily changes.

Proficiency in the use of computers and MS Office software and Outlook, Internet, email, and Google apps.

Experience in developing, maintaining, and/or using computerized record systems and information management Preferred Qualifications: Two (2) years of customer service experience.

Professional working experience in a higher education environment.

Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team. Apply online by November 4, 2021 WSU is an EO/AA educator and employer.

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Salary See Position Description Location Arlington *METRO-accessible*, VA Job Type Full-Time Department Commonwealth's Attorney Job Number 9603-22A-CWA-HQ Closing 11/8/2021 11:59 PM Eastern Position Information A career in prosecution is designed for attorneys dedicated to public service and who are committed to the ideals of public safety and justice. The Commonwealth Attorney's Office is committed to transformative justice in the promotion of effective and evidence-based diversion programs, racial justice, and victim services. Working in a major metropolitan area's prosecutor's office offers an attorney a broad spectrum of experience, while working in an office of 20 attorneys and about 20 support staff (including victim witness professionals) provides ample opportunities for collaboration, discussion, and comradery. The crimes prosecuted range from DUI to aggravated assaults, complex fraud investigations, rapes, and murders. The Office is responsible for both adult and juvenile prosecutions.



The Commonwealth Attorney's Office for Arlington County is seeking to fill multiple Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney vacancies at various levels depending upon experience. These positions perform a wide range of prosecutorial duties, including: evaluating the merits of criminal cases, preparing them for trial, and advocating in the best interests of the Commonwealth.



There are three levels for the Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney positions and the main duties for all three include: Preparing for and prosecuting misdemeanor and felony cases;

Identifying appropriate cases for diversion programs and specialty courts;

Establishing and maintaining relationships with multiple law enforcement agencies, the community and non-profits by attending in community events and participating in Community Advisory Board;

Acting as liaison between Office and law enforcement and system partners by providing support role to law enforcement in investigation of crimes;

by providing support role to law enforcement in investigation of crimes; Preparing and providing discovery;

Reviewing and redacting body worn camera footage;

Preparing and arguing bond motions;

Researching, preparing, and litigating various pre-trial motions;

Conducting preliminary hearings;

Negotiating case dispositions;

Conducting both bench and jury trials;

Providing victim support and coordinating with the victim witness team; and

Participating in development of intern programs



In addition to the duties listed above an Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney II specific duties include: Participating in training programs for less experienced attorneys;

Assisting in training of law enforcement on legal issues; and

Preparing legislative updates for Office and law enforcement agencies.

The Assistant Commonwealth Attorney III is a senior level trial lawyer responsible for independently prosecuting complex, serious, and/or sensitive criminal cases. The employee determines the method of prosecution including potential case negotiations, plea agreements, and sentencing requests; prepares for court by researching legal issues, reviewing facts, studying scientific reports, and interviewing witnesses; prepares related papers including appellate briefs; maintains contact with the public, and with those involved in the case. In addition, an employee at this level may have collateral duties which may include administering a specialized program, providing primary liaison to a particular County, State or Federal program/agency, or being assigned to a specialized area of law. Extensive training and mentoring duties are included.

Selection Criteria Minimum for the Assistant Commonwealth Attorney I, II and III: Completion of the requirements for graduation with a JD in law from an accredited college or university, and membership in the Virginia State Bar; and

One to three years' experience in law enforcement or courtroom experience, including legal research and writing. Experience prosecuting complex felony trials is helpful.

Additional requirements for the Assistant Commonwealth Attorney II: Three years' experience in law enforcement or courtroom experience including trial, legal research, and clerk experience. Experience prosecuting complex felony trials is helpful; and

Extensive knowledge of Virginia law, including knowledge needed for and membership in the Virginia State Bar.

Additional requirements for the Assistant Commonwealth Attorney III: Three years progressively responsible experience as a practicing attorney including trial experience with complex felony cases, legal research and legal writing; and

Extensive knowledge of Virginia law, including knowledge needed for and membership to the Virginia State Bar.

The ideal candidate for Assistant Commonwealth Attorney I, II and III must have the following; Reading comprehension to read complex legal materials;

Writing skills to compose and edit reports, proposals, procedures, policies, recommendations, etc.;

Interpersonal skills to resolve complaints, maintain liaison, and speak in public;

Problem solving skill to define problems and collect relevant information to prosecute cases successfully, including capacity to analyze and resolve complex issues; and

Extensive knowledge of Virginia law, rules of evidence, court rules and procedure, and U.S. Supreme Court rulings regarding criminal law and procedure.

Special Requirements Please attach a resume to the on-line application and a cover letter (or provide your response in the supplemental question) that describes why you are interested in the position in Arlington. Be sure to detail your accomplishments in the areas outlined in the minimum and desirable qualifications to include: (a) your professional level experience as a practicing trial lawyer working in a courtroom setting or as a judicial clerk; (b) criminal trial prosecution experience; and/or (c) prosecuting complex, serious, and/or sensitive criminal misdemeanor and/or felony cases or other cases.



A pre-hire background check will be made on all candidates who are selected for employment. It may include checks of the following: criminal record, driving record, education, professional licensure, and credit history. You may be required to sign a release authorizing the County to obtain your background information.



Applicant must possess, or obtain by time of appointment, a valid motor vehicle operator's license from the applicant's place of residence or willingness to use alternative modes of transportation. The applicant must authorize Arlington County to obtain, or the applicant must provide a copy of the applicant's official state/district driving record. An offer of employment may be contingent upon a favorable review of the applicant's driving record.

Additional Information Work Hours : 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday with flexibility for occasional evening and weekend hours as needed.



This position is part of a broad band, competency-based pay system. Starting salary within the band is based on a review of qualifications and experience. The pay band encompasses entry through senior-level work. Pay potential will be based on performance and employee development.



Salary range will depend on the level of qualifications and experience:



Full performance salary range for a Commonwealth Attorney III (senior level): $105,539.20 - $161,179.20 annually.

Salary range for a Commonwealth Attorney II (journey level): $91,479,40 - $139,672.00 annually

Salary range for a Commonwealth Attorney I (entry-level): $71,739.20 - $109,553.60 annually



THE OFFICE OF THE COMMONWEALTH'S ATTORNEY IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER THAT IS COMMITTED TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION IN THE WORKPLACE. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our agency. We encourage all to apply and make hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time.



Please complete each section of the application. A resume may be attached; however, it will not substitute for the completed application. Your responses to the supplemental questionnaire are considered part of the selection process and are required for this position. Please do not give "see resume" as a response to the questions. Arlington County Government employee benefits depend on whether a position is permanent, the number of hours worked, and the number of months the position is scheduled.



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



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



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



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



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



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


Magnolia, AR (71754)

Today

A few clouds early, otherwise mostly sunny. High near 70F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies in the evening, then becoming cloudy overnight. Low around 55F. Winds light and variable.
We here republish an article written by Hamid Alizadeh in July 2019, which predicted the events of the Sudan coup on Monday almost to the letter. For our latest report on the October 2021 coup, click here.

Last night, a power sharing agreement was reached between the Transitional Military Council (TMC), the military junta currently in power, and the Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC), which includes the main leaders of the revolutionary movement that erupted last December.

The agreement sets up a sovereign council composed of 11 people, five military, five civilians and one compromise member agreed by both sides. Initially the last compromise member was presented as a civilian, but it has since been revealed that this civilian is a retired military officer. Thus the majority on the council will be loyal to the TMC and all members of the old regime of the now deposed dictator, Omar Bashir.

Furthermore, for the first 21 months, the head of this sovereign council will be appointed by the TMC. This will be followed, in theory, by 18 months of a head of state appointed by the FFC. And only then, according to the deal, after more than 3 years, will elections be organised - if they are organised at all!

According to some rumours, the TMC will appoint its head Abdel Fattah al-Burhan to head of state. This is the same man who, along with Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo Hemeti, has been waging a campaign of terror against the Sudanese people in the past month.

After 3 June, Janjaweed soldiers started roaming the streets and hunting down revolutionaries. Image: Flickr publik15

The agreement also includes the launch of a "transparent and independent investigation" into the violence that began on June 3. On that day, Rapid Support Forces (a Janjaweed militia led by Hemeti), began a campaign of terror starting by attacking the main revolutionary encampment in Khartoum followed by the terrorisation of the revolutionary masses ever since. The total number of deaths are in the hundreds, while thousands have been beaten up or brutalised in one way or another. Many of the victims were women who were raped by the rabid Janjaweeds. How can an investigation into these events be independent and transparent when the main perpetrators are heading the state and in control of all police, military and intelligence agencies? If the police and armed forces were in any way independent, there would never have been the bloodbath that we have experienced in the past month. To prove the point, the agreement bears no mention of the withdrawal of Janjaweed forces from the streets.

The TMC is a direct descendant of the old regime. At every turn of events it has proven without doubt, that it will not compromise with the revolutionary masses whom it sees as a threat to the position of the ruling class. Spearheaded by their Janjaweed shock troops, they have been terrorising the masses throughout the revolution. At all steps, their aim has been to drag out time to disorient and tire the movement, in order to launch new counter-attacks. The present agreement is a continuation of the same methods. The agreement does nothing to touch the power of the TMC and the rest of the old regime which is left fully intact. But under its guise, the TMC will attempt to demobilise the masses and create the conditions of restoring order - ie. the total submission of the masses to the regime. If elections are ever organised (and that is a big if!) by the present regime, the ruling class will make sure that it is carried out in a manner so as not to be any threat to its privileges.

It is a tragedy that the leaders of the revolution are now supporting this sham and assisting this government as a minority partner to the counter revolution! They will prop up a government of the Burhans and the Hemetis, the butchers of the revolution who are merely waiting for new opportunities to unleash their terror. We have to say things as they are. This agreement is a complete betrayal of the revolutionary masses. It is a betrayal of all those who risked their lives and lost it fighting for justice and a better society. For all of those millions who in the past 8 months, in conditions of extreme economic hardships, have sacrificed their today for a better tomorrow.

Since last December the revolution could have taken power on several occasions. Firstly in the run up to the removal of Omar Bashir in April. Then during the two general strikes in May and in June. And even over the past weeks leading up to and following last Sundays Million Man March the movement has had momentum and is still present to organise to take over power.

Even after 3 June when Janjaweed soldiers started roaming the streets and hunting down revolutionaries, the masses launched an impressive counter attack which resulted in probably the biggest protest in Sudanese history last week. On all of these occasions, power has been within the grasp of the movement. But the leaders of the Sudanese Professionals Association (SPA) which is the real leadership of the revolution, has hesitated and refused to take the necessary steps.

In spite of the fact that the majority of soldiers are against the TMC, the SPA has refused to call for the army ranks to break with their counter-revolutionary generals. On the basis of keeping matters peaceful, it has refused to organise self-defence committees or presented any form of plan to disarm the RSF and other counter-revolutionary militias who now control major parts of Sudan. Instead they have launched round after round of negotiations. We must ask honestly, have the results been peaceful?

Now, the SPA has joined a government with the junta. Do they really believe that this will lead to a more peaceful course of events? And how will this agreement satisfy any of the aspirations of the masses?

The Sudanese people rose up against the military dictatorship of Omar Bashir.

The Sudanese people rose up against the military dictatorship of Omar Bashir, against decades of repression and humiliation. Against a ruling class, which in spite of all the wealth of the country has only managed to plunge it deeper and deeper into backwardness. It is a revolution for bread and justice for the poor and against the enormous concentration of wealth amongst a tiny minority. But none of these problems have been solved. All the main levers of power in society - the state and the economy - are still under the control of the old regime.

At the moment there appears to be a lot of confusion in the streets around the agreement, it would be natural that many people would be relieved. After eight months of relentless struggle without any specific plan presented by the leadership for how to achieve victory, some layers would be tired and disoriented. In the absence of any alternative proposals they would see the agreement as a partial victory for the revolution. But sooner or later the deceit will become clear.

The masses have shown their enormous potential and creativity again and again during the course of this revolution. In conditions of extreme hardship, they have built an impressive movement organised in committees throughout the country and with an unstoppable power. These must be expanded into the armed forces and appended by local defence committees as a means of defence against Janjaweed violence. At the same time they must be connected on a national level to prepare for the inevitable future clashes with the counter-revolution.

The interests of the workers, the peasants and the poor cannot be reconciled with those of the generals and the rich. The masses can only trust their own power. No amount of negotiation or street protests can convince these counter-revolutionaries to act in the interest of the masses. The only solution is for the revolution is to take power and remove these parasites from all strategic positions within the state apparatus, the armed forces and the economy.

No to the rotten compromise!

No to a coalition with Burhan and Hemeti, the butchers of the revolution!

Down with the TMC!

Down with the counter-revolutionary regime!
Millions of workers and youth in the US are fed up with the two parties of the capitalist class: the Republicans and the Democrats. The lack of a mass working-class party leaves voters with little real choice: either vote for one of the ruling classs parties; cast a protest vote for a tiny third party; or abstain altogether. But why is there no mass workers party in the US? Why have past attempts to build one failed? What lessons can we learn from history to change this in the future?

By reviewing the major political battles in the history of the US class struggle, Tom Trottier shows that workers in this country have taken the road of class independence many times beforeonly to be held back and betrayed by leaders and organizations that were not up to the tasks before them. By drawing out the lessons from these struggles and learning from the mistakes that were made, a new generation of revolutionaries can prepare for the turbulent times ahead.

I believe that the consistency and continuity of our program are unquestionable. Events have vindicated us time and again and continue to do so. If our program obliges us to maneuver energetically in a constantly changing environment, among unparalleled difficulties, that is not our fault. We do not choose the conditions under which we must function any more than we choose our own parents.  Leon Trotsky The first task of the Marxists is to work out correct ideas, policies, program, and perspectives. The second task, even more complicated and difficult than the first, is to find the way to link up the scientific program of Marxism with the necessarily unfinished, confused and contradictory movement of the masses. If we fail to establish this link, we become a sect, neither more nor less.  Alan Woods

Every election year, and especially when the presidency is at stake, millions of Americans are dissatisfied with the choice between the Republicans and the Democrats. Although these parties may have different policies on a number of issues, they are united on the following fundamentals:

They are both staunch defenders of the declining capitalist system, a system based on private ownership of the key levers of production, distribution, and exchange. This does not include personal property and consumer goods like cars, clothes, a family home, etc. They both defend the domestic and international interests of the American capitalist class. Although they may at times favor this or that sector of the capitalists at the expense of other parts of that class, their ultimate aim is to represent the long-term interests of the capitalists as a whole. They demagogically appeal to different layers of the workers, but do not represent or defend the interests of the working classeven though it is our class that makes up the overwhelming majority of society.

Some people complain about the two-party system, but we dont think this is the main issue. The real issue is that the working class does not yet have its own party and this should be one of the main partieswhether there are two political parties or ten.

The dominance of the two bourgeois parties is a feature of the rule of the US capitalist class. Frederick Engels commented about this in 1891:

Nowhere do politicians form a more separate and powerful section of the nation than precisely in North America. There, each of the two major parties which alternately succeed each other in power is itself in turn controlled by people who make a business of politics, who speculate on seats in the legislative assemblies of the Union as well as of the separate states, or who make a living by carrying on agitation for their party and on its victory are rewarded with positions (Engels, Introduction to the Civil War in France).

As Engelss comment explains, this includes not only party functionaries, but also lobbyists and those who receive government contacts and funds, including in todays world, many so-called NGOs. The frustration felt by many workers due to the lack of a mass party representing them grows even greater when there are big protest movements. The massive movement against police brutality that developed in 2020 around the murders of George Floyd and Breonna Taylor, led many to search for a viable political expressionbut there is none. The lack of a mass workers party leaves people with little real choice: vote for one of the ruling classs parties, cast a protest vote for a tiny third party, or abstain altogether.

So why is there no mass workers party in the US? Why have past attempts to build one failed? What lessons can we learn from history to change this in the future?

The class struggle: political, economic, and theoretical battles

The working class develops class consciousness through its experience in the class struggle. The history of the class struggle includes the innumerable fights by workers to build unions and other mass organizations such as tenants organizations. However, the class struggle also includes political struggle, and the building of a working-class party is part of that battle.

The establishment of a mass working-class party represents a qualitative stage in the development of the class struggle, whereby a large section of workers see themselves as a class with their own interests opposed to the bosses. A political party generalizes the collective struggle of all the workers against the concerted interests of all the capitalists. In countries where mass workers parties exist, the working class has alternated its struggles in the workplace and on the streets with battles on the electoral front.

In the 1890s, Engels advised German-American workers to unite with English speakers in the fight for a mass socialist party / Image: Artistosteles, Wikimedia Commons

The establishment of a mass workers party means that workers are no longer forced to place demands on the ruling class, but rather, can work to support their party coming to power against the capitalist parties. The program of such a party would be what the workers want implemented as the policies of a workers government. Even if they are not politically clear on many issues or points, when a mass workers party exists, those workers who vote for it and support it begin to see themselves as a class fighting for power. The building of such a party is a process that includes objective factors and the subjective decisions of the leading figures in the movement. The leaders decisions and actions can make or break a party at certain historical moments. This is why theoretical struggle is just as important as political and economic struggle, and is absolutely key to the victory of the workers.

What is a mass workers party?

The Old Bolshevik Gregory Zinoviev wrote: For us a party is, I repeat, a party of a particular class, which has arisen from its depths and has linked its fate with it. To Zinovievs definition we would add that a mass workers party would have substantial support in the class as a whole. Today, 11% of the labor force is organized in trade unions. While that is not a majority, it still includes many millions, so we identify the unions as mass organizations.

As another example, we would not call the Green Party in the US a mass party, as it does not have substantial support in the population. We would also not call it a small workers party, as it is not a part of and did not arise from the working class. This is not to say that there are no workers in it. However, it is primarily a party reflecting the interests of a segment of the petty bourgeoisie, not the expression of any significant part of the working class.

Tommy Douglas was the first leader of the Canadian NDP. Under pressure from the party, the Canadian ruling class conceded reforms like universal healthcare / Image: Themightyquill, Wikimedia Commons

In short, mass parties emerge from mass forces, and the class character of a party is a reflection of the class forces that control and lead it. A workers party can arise in different ways. In much of the English-speaking world, trade unions were built which, in turn, eventually formed a labor partysuch as the Labour Party in Britain or the New Democratic Party in Canada, as well as other examples in Australia and New Zealand. In other countries, like France and Germany, Socialist and Communist Parties were built in advance of, or in conjunction with, the building of the unions and became mass forces.

Canada provides an instructive example. In Canada, there was a reformist socialist organization known as the Cooperative Commonwealth Federation (CCF) which was founded in 1932. In the late 1950s, the CCF began to negotiate with the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), the Canadian version of the AFL-CIO. The result of the negotiations was the establishment of the NDP in 1961, with Tommy Douglas as its first leader.

Up to this point, the Canadian ruling class had two parties: the Liberals and the Tories. The fact that the CLC decided it wanted to have its own political party rather than support the lesser-evil Liberals or Tories was a giant step forward. The NDP became the political arm of the organized working class.

The capitalists then had to take this party into account in their governing policies. Their attempt to keep the NDP in third place in elections meant conceding reforms like universal healthcare during the postwar boom. However, the leaders of the NDP always had a reformist outlook. The crisis of capitalism is also the crisis of reformism, and the NDP leadership has accommodated their policies to the limitations of a declining system. Therefore, it is no mystery that, for now, the NDP is not attracting radical youth and advanced workers to its banner, and has lost support. They would need a major move to the left to change this trajectory.

The historic interests of the working class

As Marxists, we would argue that to fully and truly represent the interests of the workers, a labor party must represent the historic interests of the working class. That is, it must be committed to advancing the class struggle, to leading the working class to power internationally as well as at home, bringing an end to capitalism, and opening the path to world socialism. To be true to the working class, it must be armed with the ideas of Marxism, which represent the interests of the only historically progressive class in society.

To fully and truly represent the interests of the workers, a labor party must represent the historic interests of the working class. It must be committed to advancing the class struggle and to leading the working class to power / Image: picryl.com

However, we recognize that such a party will not emerge ready-made, complete with a revolutionary Marxist program. Nonetheless, in the context of the US, any mass workers party, even without a Marxist leadership, would be a giant step forward compared with the present situation. Marxists would support the creation of such a party and be an enthusiastic part of it.

We should also be clear that a mass workers party with a reformist leadership would contain within it an internal battle between those who fight for the class interests of the workers, and those who reflect the pressure of the big bourgeois and the petty bourgeoisi.e., a battle between revolution and reformism; between class independence and class collaboration.

Even if elements within the party have illusions in alien class ideas and interests, a mass workers party would still be qualitatively different from bourgeois parties like the Democrats and Republicans. Parties, and especially workers parties, are not static entities but are in continual flux and change. The balance of forces in such parties changes over time depending on events and whether a strong Marxist current exists in the party and the working class.

Past efforts to build a mass workers party in the US

There have been a number of attempts throughout history to build a mass workers party in the US, but even the more successful efforts have always been cut across before the task was completed and consolidated. These movements faced both objective and subjective obstacles, as will future efforts in this direction. However, if we study these past examples, it can help us overcome these obstacles in the future.

There have been times when the American working class seemed to follow in the footsteps of the workers in the English-speaking world: build unions first, followed by the unions forming a labor party. There have also been historical trends where there was the potential for the development of a mass socialist and even a mass communist party.

Before examining these experiences, it is important to understand that three main objective factors have proven consistent obstacles to the construction of a mass party of the working class:

The role of the petty bourgeoisie and of populism Systemic racism The vagaries of the economic cycle

Until the late 1800s, the class balance of forces was not as favorable to the working class. The large population of small farmers, business owners, and artisan producersparticularly in the expansive Westwas fertile ground for the amorphous cross-class confusion of populism from both the left and the right. Due to its place in society, the petty bourgeoisie is known for its erratic political confusion and vacillation. Squeezed in a class vice between the workers and big capital, it tails either the workers or the bourgeoisie but cannot play a consistent, independent role.

In 1860 roughly 53% of the labor force was engaged in agriculture. By 1900, just under 40% of the US population lived on farms. / Image: Russell Lee, New York Public Library

In 1860, on the eve of the Civil War, roughly 53% of the labor force was engaged in agriculture. By the early 1900s, the end of slavery and the countrys rapid industrialization created a much larger working class, and it became the economically dominant part of the population. In 1900, just under 40% of the US population lived on farms and 60% lived in rural areas. Today, the respective figures are only about 1% and 20%. The class balance of forces is overwhelmingly in favor of the urban working class. Nonetheless, due to the lack of a mass workers party and the role of the labor leaders, the petty bourgeoisie makes more noise than their real weight in society, and there is plenty of scope for the confusion of both left and right populism.

Racism has always played a pernicious role in dividing the working class and the labor movement, and it has been consciously fomented by the ruling class. Racial divisions have hamstrung the development of organized labor and cut across the development of class consciousness. Generally speaking, however, when the working class is on the offensive, racism tends to weaken. And although racism continues to be a serious problem, past struggles like the Civil Rights Movement and present struggles like Black Lives Matter have made inroads against this poison dividing the working class.

As for the economic cycle, the overall growth and development of US capitalism from the late 1700s until the early 1970s helped to provide a relatively acceptable standard of living for a large section of the working class, at least when compared to workers in other countries. Several historical efforts to build a labor party were cut across by booms in the economic cycle. However, we live in a very different situation today, with capitalism in the midst of a long and painful decline and the workers made to bear the brunt of the systems crisis.

The above three objective factors are significant but do not exhaust the question. Other obstacles play a role; for example, the social weight of the two dominant parties, their skill at co-opting social movements, and the issue of ballot access. However, with their system in a severe crisis, there are limits to how long the capitalists can use these parties to dupe the masses. As for ballot access, you dont need a mass party to get on the ballot, although you do need a solid core of organizers and a solid base of support around them.

Some argue that because the US does not have proportional representation, this also prevents us from building a workers party. Although proportional representation would make it easier to start such a party, neither Canada nor Great Britain have proportional elections and workers in both countries succeeded in building mass labor parties.

There were also subjective factorsthe question of working-class leadershipthat served as obstacles at key historical moments. Examples of this will be examined later. However, let us first examine where the main objective factors stand today.

Majority rule?

As seen above, the class balance of forces is overwhelmingly on the side of the working class. The working class has been the majority of American society since the early 1900s, but as capitalism has continued for another 100-plus years, it has created even more of its gravediggers.

The US Department of Labor reports that in August 2020, there were roughly 2,259,000 people employed in agriculture, which included 1,457,000 wage and salary workers, 788,000 self-employed, and 14,000 unpaid family workers. Contrast this with the 144,965,000 who were employed in non-agricultural industries, with 136,073,000 of them wage and salary workers, while only 8,815,000 were self-employed and 77,000 were unpaid family workers.

The working class has been the majority of American society since the early 1900s. In August 2020 there were 136,073,000 wage and salary workers in non-agricultural industries / Image: Washington State Department of Transportation, Flickr

These statistics indicate that even in agriculture, the working class is the majority. In addition, among wage and salary workers only a small minority are top management or highly compensated professionals, and the vast majority are non-supervisory workers. Professions such as teaching are heavily unionized, and unions are growing among sections of doctors and lawyers, who are much less likely to be self-employed than they were in the past.

A petty-bourgeois academic might object that, Yes, there are many workers in the US, but they are not class conscious. It is true that thanks to the current crop of labor leaders, class consciousness has been thrown back as compared to the past. And yet, a Gallup poll from the summer of 2020 found that 65% of Americans approve of labor unions, while just 30% disapprove. The further development of class consciousness is a function of the class struggle, including the political struggle. The fight for a mass workers party will consolidate class consciousness, and the party itself will expand such an understanding by turning bourgeois elections into a contest between the two principal social classes.

The struggle against racism

The capitalist class needed slaves and immigrant labor to build their system in North America and Europe. This was true in the early Colonial period and continued after the American Revolution. Racism and white supremacy were nurtured and fomented by the ruling class to justify slavery as well as wage labor, and to keep the masses divided.

The American Revolution ended with the uneasy sharing of power between the rising bourgeois in the North and the slave plantation owners in the South. But capitalisms inexorable drive to expand its profits and territory on the basis of wage labor conflicted with the competing interests of the Southern slavocracy. The result was the Civil War and Reconstruction, which represented a continuation of the American Revolution. This destroyed chattel slavery and established legal equality, but did not lead to equality of life and prosperity for the former slaves. The counterrevolutionary betrayal of Radical Reconstruction led to the long nightmare of Jim Crow. Racism was used to divide the working class and to find scapegoats for the miseries of capitalism.

The huge Black Lives Matter demonstrations in 2020 united many workers and youth across racial lines / Image: Lorie Shaull, Flickr

The ruling classes of the world have long understood that if they can successfully pit one section of the exploited against another, the masses will be powerless to unite against their common enemythe exploiters. The American ruling class knew that if they could get workers to define themselves as white instead of worker, they would identify more with their boss than with non-white workersor that at the very least it would frustrate united class action. Black workers were excluded from many jobs by the capitalists, except when there was a strikein which case they were brought in as scabs to keep production moving and sow even more division. While arguing for solidarity, many unions excluded Black workers and did nothing to fight racism, playing right into the hands of the capitalists.

Black workers were excluded from many unions until the 1930s. In that decade, the movement to organize the unorganized and build the CIO began to break down racial divisions in the workforce. The Civil Rights movement in the 1960s also played a huge role in further integrating unions and workplaces. In the 1960s, unions like the teachers, UAW, and 1199 healthcare workers supported the movement.

History shows that when the working class does not struggle, the poison of racism can rise, but when the battles begin, there is a tendency towards unity and a decline in this prejudice. The huge Black Lives Matter demonstrations in 2020 united many workers and youth across racial lines.

Racism continues to be a major problem and will not be defeated until capitalism is completely eradicated. However, past and present movements have weakened racism. It is not as strong as it was in the 1920s or even in the early 1950s. In the 1920s, the KKK could march unopposed through Washington, DC. Let them try that today!

Though its poison remains, and can become even more virulent in the aftermath of defeats or betrayals, racism is less of an impediment to the building of a mass workers party now than it was in the past. The movement to build such a party will have to make it clear that unity of the working class can only be achieved by fighting against this hideous tool of the bosses.

Marxists must be at the forefront of the struggle against racism and for unity of the working class. We oppose all attempts to divide workers, including the confused and reactionary tool of identity politics, which the ruling class has used since long before it was given that label.

To strike at the heart of racism, a mass workers party must at the very least demand a $1,000 per week guaranteed minimum wage, full employment, and a 20-hour workweek / Image: Joe Piette, Flickr

Identity politics aims to make people think that a particular groupwhether based on ethnicity, race, gender, or sexual identityhave more in common with each other across class lines than they do with those in their own class. This leads to divisions in the working class and to workers following the lead of capitalist politicians.

The working class must stand for unity based on a class-based fight against all forms of discrimination. To win a workers government and a new basis for society, the question of the program is key.

To strike at the heart of racism, a mass workers party worthy of the name must at the very least demand a $1,000 per week guaranteed minimum wage, full employment, and a 20-hour workweek. It must fight for massive investment to repair and expand infrastructure, public transit, housing, schools, hospitals, parks, and recreation centers, beginning in those neighborhoods with the highest unemployment. Union hiring halls should be opened in these neighborhoods and workers should be paid at union scale with union working conditions and protections. Free universal health care, education, and a cap on rent at 10% of wages would benefit all workers, but it would have its greatest impact on the lowest-paid layers of the working class. And to pay for all of this, the Fortune 500 should be expropriated without compensation and operated under democratic workers control.

The period of capitalist prosperity and American Exceptionalism

After the American Revolution, and especially after the Civil War, the US grew into the worlds most powerful imperialist country. This domination reached its pinnacle after World War II, with the postwar boom stretching into the early 1970s. The upward trajectory of US capitalism for more than 180 years, topped off with superprofits from foreign plunder, allowed the ruling class to provide some concessions and a higher standard of living to some sections of the working class. This was used to reinforce support for the two main capitalist parties and cut across the development of a mass workers party. The American bourgeoisalong with many on the leftbelieved in and fomented the idea of American Exceptionalism.

The devastating Great Depression of the 1930s, and the destruction and slaughter of 70 million people worldwide in World War II served to reset the system, allowing the capitalists to temporarily overcome the inherent contradiction of overproduction. But the shores of North America are not exempt from the laws of capitalism, and as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. The postwar boom was an exception, not the ruleand it inevitably led to overcapacity and overproduction. Beginning in the 1970s and continuing to today, the era of concessions and reforms was over, and the bosses went on the offensive to attack wages, benefits, working conditions, and labor unions.

The worldwide slump of 197376 signaled the end of the postwar boom, but the dramatic expansion of debt over the following three decades postponed a further massive decline. But this, too, came to an end with the crisis of 200809.

The period that has opened up since then is one in which the relative stability and prosperity of capitalism is over. The new normal of capitalism is the old normalcrisis, instability, and open clashes of the class struggle in a world more interconnected than ever. All workers are under attack, but this is particularly true for working-class youth. Young people are forced into enormous debt to pay for their education and end up with low-paying jobsif they are lucky enough to find work at all. Many are forced to live with their parents well into their 30s.

The organic crisis of the system means that the Republicans and Democrats can no longer provide the kinds of reforms that cut across the development of a mass workers party in the past. At the moment, there is no serious movement in the direction of such a party, but the need for one will come roaring to the forefront on the basis of the crises and struggles that will unfold over the coming period.

The 1880s and the running of labor candidates

The betrayal of millions of former slaves in a dirty deal between the Republicans and Democrats over the 1876 presidential election coincided with a major economic crisis. The Panic of 1873 triggered a depression that lasted half a decade. Approximately one out of every five workers was unemployed in 1877. It should be remembered that unions at this time functioned as underground organizations, given the vicious hostility of the employers and their government.

The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 involved thousands of workers around the country. In St. Louis, the movement evolved into a general strike / Image: G.J. Nebinger, picryl.com

Yet conditions forced the working class to take action, despite the unfavorable legal situation. The Great Railroad Strike of 1877 started in July of that year in West Virginia, but it quickly spread beyond that state and involved thousands of workers around the country. In St. Louis, the movement evolved into a general strike. The strike was defeated with repression, particularly with the use of federal troops. However, the defeat eventually pushed the working class from industrial action to political action. The labor movement at this time was mainly made up of revolutionary socialists and an organization called the Knights of Labor. Soon, farmers struggling against big business joined with labor in the Greenback Party.

As explained in Labors Untold Story:

In the fall of 1878 some 1,000,000 votes were cast for Greenback-Labor candidates for Congress, fifteen of whom were elected, six from the East, six from the Midwest, and three from the South. The Congressional vote for the Greenback-Labor candidates in Pennsylvania was almost 14% of the total vote, and the largest part of it came from the so-called Molly Maguire counties in anthracite [coal].

There was yet another depression from 1883 to 1885. This was followed by more strikes and the movement for the eight-hour day, culminating with the 1886 May Day demonstration at Haymarket, Chicago. The repression against the demonstratorswith four leaders hanged by the state, one driven to suicide, and others imprisonedled to a series of labor candidates running for office that year.

The 1886 elections

The young labor movement decided to stand independent candidates in the midterm elections across the US that year. There were independent labor candidates for Congress in 13 states: Maine, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Kansas, and Washington State. In addition, many other labor candidates ran as independents for state legislature and city government.

One of the most interesting campaigns that year took place in the NYC mayoral election. Today, the NYC Central Labor Council has 1.3 million members and more than 400 different union locals affiliated to it. In 1886, the forerunner to the Central Labor Council was much smaller in numbers, but the leadership had a more courageous and class-conscious approach to politics. The election would be in November, but as late as August 1886, they brought the unions together to form the United Labor Party (ULP) in NYC. The labor movement decided to run socialist Henry George for NYC Mayor. George was not a Marxist, but he had proposed a land tax as a solution to poverty.[1]

The ULP ran socialist Henry George for NYC Mayor in 1886 / Image: New York Public Library

Despite the last-minute establishment of the ULP, it came in second place. The Tammany Hall Democrats, who had tight control over the city and government patronage, won with 41%. But Henry George received 31%, and the Republican candidate and future president Teddy Roosevelt came in third with less than 28%.

Unfortunately, the ULP disappeared due to infighting and factionalism, as there were battles between Marxists, Georgeists, and workers influenced by the Catholic Church. The fundamental reason that the labor candidates of 1886 did not solidify into a national party was the general weakness of the labor movement and of the Marxists at the time, coupled with the fact that capitalism was still growing and in its historically progressive phase.

It bears noting that the forces of Marxism were concentrated among German immigrants, many of whom were very sectarian, reflecting their insular approach. They wanted to organize only among German workers in the US, without connecting with other American workers. Frederick Engels even suggested that they should translate some of their publications into English, which would allow other workers to understand them. Though he tried, Frederick Engels failed to convince them to break with this approach.

When the capitalists parties were faced with workers struggles or competition in the elections, they had room for small reforms to win over sections of the working class and this would cut across the movement toward class-independent parties. In addition, large parts of the working class were first-generation immigrants, and the capitalists used these differences to stifle class organization.

Especially in the large cities of the East and Midwest, the capitalists relied on ethnic politics, similar to todays identity politics. This is the idea that German immigrants must stick together and elect German-American politicians, with the Irish doing the same, and so on. These ideas divide the working class by inviting workers to unite with the bourgeois and petty bourgeois of their ethnic group. This, of course, was augmented by a large dose of racism against Black workers.

The 1890s also saw the development of the Populist Party, also called the Peoples Party. This party was mainly based on farmers, who still made up a large part of the US population. It also won support from the United Mine Workers of America and the Knights of Labor.

But since the Populist Party was based on the rural, small-holding petty bourgeois, its ideology was necessarily reformist and did not challenge capitalism per se. This meant that the growth of the Populist Party could be accommodated by the Democrats. In 1896, the Democrats nominated Williams Jennings Bryan, who successfully absorbed the Populists, and they gradually disappeared.

The Socialist Party of America

In 1889, Frederick Engels and other leading socialists founded the Second International, also known as the Socialist International. This grouping brought together socialist parties from 24 countries, mostly concentrated in Europe but also including the Socialist Labor Party (SLP) in the US.

The SLP and its main leader, Daniel DeLeon, tended to be sectarian in their approach. This party had originated among the German immigrants, of whom Engels had been critical. In a letter to a US comrade Florence Kelly, Engels wrote:

What the Germans [German-American socialists] ought to do is to act up to their own theoryif they understand it, as we did in 1845 and 1848to go in for any real general working-class movement, accept its faktische [actual] starting points as such and work it gradually up to the theoretical level by pointing out how every mistake made, every reverse suffered, was a necessary consequence of mistaken theoretical views in the original program; they ought, in the words of The Communist Manifesto, to represent the movement of the future in the movement of the present.

This was an impediment to building a larger and more influential socialist party in the United States. In 1901, a split from the SLP that wanted to connect with the broader working class merged with another group, called the Social Democratic Party, and founded the Socialist Party of America (SP). The SP linked up with the Second International and its mass parties in Europe, which helped to build up its forces.

Victor Berger, a leading right-wing reformist, was elected to congress on the SP line / Image: Harris & Ewing, Library of Congress

The Socialist Party of America included Marxists, as well as other tendencies in the movement. When it began, the SP had more than 7,000 members in 226 branches in 25 states, out of a total US population of around 76 million. Eight years later, the party grew to 40,000 members in 46 states. By the start of 1918, after the Bolshevik Revolution and in the midst of the terrible world imperialist war, membership had increased to 81,000 and then to 108,000 in 1919.

The SP also had some measure of electoral success. It was able to elect two congressmen on its partys line: Victor Berger from Wisconsin and Meyer London from New York. The SP also elected many mayors, city councilors, and state legislators around the country, including the five New York State assemblymen who were expelled from the legislature in 1920 during the Red Scare.

The SP ran Eugene Debs for president four times, and in 1912, he received 6% of the national vote, his highest percentage. This was at a time when women, men below the age of 21, Native Americans, and most Black men could not vote. Also, many SP supporters were immigrants who were not yet US citizens and therefore could not vote. In 1920, Debs won nearly one million votes even though he could not campaign, as he was in federal prison for the crime of speaking against the US governments participation in World War I. It should also be noted that the socialist newspaper, Appeal to Reason, which was not owned by the SP but was aligned with it, had a circulation of an astonishing 550,000 copies per week at its height in 1910.

In addition to the elections won by SP candidates, the party also contested many other elections. Even when they lost, these campaigns provided a platform for spreading the ideas of socialism. This helped attract new members and educated the working class as a whole, particularly when the candidates were from the partys left wing, like Debs himself. This was an important factor in their growth from 7,000 to more than 100,000 members. Even if they lost the election, the vote for the SP was a way to measure the growing political consciousness of the working class, which does not develop in a straight line..

Could the Socialist Party of America have developed into a mass party?

In retrospect it is clear that, with a correct approach, the SP could have developed into a mass party. If it had held itself together on a principled basis, it could have built up its core membership and influence in the trade unions, and when the events of the 1930s unfolded, it would have been poised to become a mass party. This, along with correct policies, could have put it in a position to lead the working class to victory. This did not happen. What went wrong?

A working-class political party should be democratic and open to orderly internal debate. The point of a political party is not to have constant discussion and debate for its own sake, but to use debates to educate the membership, clarify the partys perspectives and program, and show the broader working class the way forward. It should use debate to raise the theoretical understanding of the membership. When the party makes mistakes, debates should allow it to correct them and reorient itself.

Eugene Debs led the SPs revolutionary wing and ran for president four times / Image: Wikimedia Commons

Unfortunately, the SP had different factions, but it did not have the kind of internal life required to attain principled unity. In the period from 1901 to 1919, it could be described as unprincipled unity or a big tent. Although alliances of different tendencies can exist for a period, eventually real events will break this type of party into pieces. World War I and the Bolshevik Revolution were two big events that led to splits in the SP and sent its remains to the land of sectarianism.

There was always a right-wing reformist faction in the SP, as well as a revolutionary wing. Victor Berger, a friend of German socialist renegade Karl Kautsky, was a leading right-wing reformist. Debs was a leader in the revolutionary wing. In a 1908 newspaper interview, Debs explained that an SP government would take over the big-business trusts without compensation, while Victor Berger stated that the SP would pay for any industries that the government takes over.

There were other important issues that highlighted the divisions in the party. The partys policy on fighting racism was not what it should have been and what was needed. The SP essentially said that racism would fade away after the revolution, putting the present struggle against racism to one side. They failed to put forward a specific program and strategy to eliminate Jim Crow, and did not understand that the only way to achieve working-class unity and win power is to be at the forefront in the active fight against racist terror and segregation.

There were also divisions on party policy and the orientation to the AFL and IWW. Some SP members were fighting for socialist ideas among the AFLs rank-and-file members. Others would have nothing to do with the AFL and only wanted to build the left-wing IWW, which had only a fraction of the AFL membership. This reflected an ultraleft approach, because most American workers were not members of the IWW. Additionally, as of April 1917, there were serious differences on what the SP policy should be on the question of the US participation in the imperialist war. The left wing and those connected with German-Americans were against US intervention. The right wing supported intervention once the US ruling class decided to enter the war.

Eugene Debs was without a doubt one of the most outstanding socialist and labor leaders in US history. But he did not play the leadership role in the SP that history demanded of him. When there were contentious debates in the party, Debs would recuse himself and let the various members fight it out. Nothing would really get resolved. Contrast this to Lenin, who always used political and organizational debates to raise the theoretical level of the party members and clarify the issues at hand. Even when this led to splits, those who remained emerged stronger. Engels explained that the party strengthens itself through splitsprovided they are carried out in a way that raises the political understanding of the membership. Unfortunately, the SPs approach reflected the narrow pragmatism of the US ruling class, and Marxist theory was not treated as a priority within the party.

It should also be noted that the break up of the Socialist International in 1914 had its reflection in the SP, but these splits mainly occurred in the US in 1919. In that year, there were two major splits of the left wing from the SP, followed by another split in 1921. From that point on, the SP lost membership rapidly, and by 1923, it had just 23,000 members.

The three splits from the SP eventually came together to form the Communist Party (CP).[2] Eugene Debs never joined the CPboth due to his own political limitations and because of mistakes made by the early CPbut he did lend some support to the CPs International Labor Defense campaign. Debs died in October 1926.

The SP never regained its former strength. But in the 1930s, it started to attract a layer of workers and young people who were radicalizing and did not want to join the Stalinized CP. The American Trotskyists then joined the SP and were able to connect with them. But after the SP leaders expelled the left wing, the party became a tiny sect. It formally died in 1972, after another three-way split.[3]

The Communist Party in the 1920s

As was mentioned above, the left wing in the Socialist Party of America split away in 1919, which led to the formation of two Communist Parties. They eventually merged into one party with help from the Communist International (Comintern). Yet another split from the SP joined with the Communists in 1921.

The early CP was up to its neck in ultraleftism, which itself was a reaction against the pro-capitalist policies of the AFL leadership and the opportunism of the right wing of the Socialist Party. Their ultraleftism can be seen in how they split away from the SP. If they had a correct approach, the left wing of the SP would have organized as a tendency within the party, fighting politically to win a majority. They might have won, but even if they had lost this battle and been expelled, they could have won over more people in and around the SP by maintaining an orientation to it.

In its early years, the Comintern was a school to educate the young leadership of the Communist Parties around the world / Image: Wikimedia Commons

Instead, one of the left factions was in a rush to split from the SP and the other one followed them shortly thereafter. They then took a sectarian position toward the Socialists. As an example, when Debs ran for president in 1920, the CP did not support him, even though they did not have a candidate in the election. It should be understood that from 1917 to the day that he died, Debs was an enthusiastic supporter of the October Revolution. The mistaken approach to the 1920 elections led to bitter feelings and undermined the Communist effort to recruit Debs, who would have been a giant addition to the early Communist movement in the US.

There were many obstacles that the early Communist Party needed to overcome, but the root of the problem was that the leadership needed to be trained in Marxist theory and apply this to the question of party building. They needed to build a leadership team at the top, united on a principled basis. Instead, they had a leadership divided into three main factions and, as we will see, none of them really understood the Marxist methodalthough the factions around James Cannon and William Z. Foster were healthier in some respects than the other main faction, the Ruthenberg-Lovestone-Pepper faction.[4]

In its early years, the Comintern was a school to educate the young leadership of all the Communist Parties around the world. Lenin and Trotsky were excellent and patient teachers, and the resolutions, speeches, and debates of the first four Congresses of the Communist International remain a treasure trove of material that can be used to educate Marxists today. However, the beginnings of the bureaucratic degeneration of the Soviet state and the Bolshevik Party, combined with the role of Zinoviev, Bukharin, and Stalin in this period, cut across the development of the CP.

Communists and the Farmer-Labor Party movement in the early 1920s

After World War I, the unions started to grow. There was an increase in strikes and some major organizing drives, particularly in the steel industry. There were also important political developments in the labor movement. The Conference for Progressive Political Action (CPPA) was founded in 1922. It was an initiative of the railway worker unions to reach out to other workers and farmers. The SP and the CP also got involved in this effort. The majority of the CPPA did not favor creating a workers party. They had a strategy of supporting a labor bloc of progressive Democrats and Republicans such as the Republican Senator Robert La Follette from Wisconsin. The initiative also permitted other candidates in the bloc to run independently of the two bourgeois parties, and in Minnesota they could run on the Farmer-Labor Party (FLP) ticket.

In the CPPA, contradictory pressures were at work. There was pressure from the working class to develop its own party reflecting its class interests. This was in the context of the aftermath of the world war and the viciousness of capitalism. It also reflected the various revolutions that unfolded worldwide after the war, with the October Revolution as the glowing example of the first workers state. On the other hand, there was constant pressure from the American ruling class, through its various institutions, for labor leaders to think and conduct labor politics within the framework of American capitalism and its established political system and parties.

The majority of the CPPA supported progressive Democrats and Republicans such as GOP Senator Robert La Follette / Image: Harris & Ewing, Wikimedia Commons

In early 1923, the left wing of the CPPA split away, grouped around the Chicago Federation of Labor (CFL) and those advocating for a national Farmer-Labor Party. The CP had ties to both of these groupings. The plan was to form this new party at a Chicago convention in July 1923. The Amalgamated Clothing Workers and three other national unions sent delegates. The CFL and several other central labor councils also joined this initiative, along with the West Virginia Federation of Labor. There were also nearly 250 trade union locals and farmers organizations represented, as well as 125 fraternal societies.

We must clarify the issue of a Farmer-Labor Party versus a genuine labor party. Any political party that is multi-class is, in fact, not a workers party. A workers party must be structured such that it is controlled democratically by its members, who would be overwhelmingly working class. A workers party would absolutely want to win over support from poor farmers and other sections of the middle class that were struggling against capital and wanted to join with the working class to fight big business.

But from a Marxist point of view, the key is this: the petty-bourgeois elements must not predominate or have disproportionate power in the party in terms of its structure and program. This being the case, we must view the Farmer-Labor Party at this stage as a new party in transition. It then becomes a question of the struggle of living political forces in the organization to determine over time whether or not it is consolidated as a workers party. It could also end up as yet another bourgeois party or disappear altogether. In the absence of a mass workers party, Marxists should, in most circumstances, work in these transitional parties, pushing forward the progressive elements and fighting against the class-collaborationist opportunist wing.

In the state of Minnesota, the movement successfully formed a Farmer-Labor Party in the early 1920s. Unfortunately, the program of the party was deficient and its structure allowed a disproportionate amount of power to petty-bourgeois elements. In some cases, cultural societies of 70 people could out vote unions with a few thousand members. Marxists should have and did work in the Minnesota FLP. But although the Minnesota FLP won elections and lasted a little more than 20 years, it never successfully became a genuine labor party. In 1944, with the help of the Stalinists, it merged with the Democratic Party. To this day, the Minnesota Democrats are officially known as the Democratic Farmer-Labor Party (DFL).

If the 1923 convention had formed a national Farmer-Labor Party, it would not have immediately been a mass party, but it could have established itself as a force and built mass support over time, eventually winning over larger sections of the labor movement. Even if this did not happen in a linear way, it could have also played a role similar to the Independent Labour Party in Britain, which eventually helped to give birth to the mass British Labour Party. This is why analyzing perspectives is an important part of party building. At the time, a historic crisis of capitalism was imminent, and certainly, this party could have become a mass force in the 1930s as the Great Depression unfolded. However, as things actually turned out, the convention ended in a miscarriage.

Left labor leaders move to the right

Objective conditions were cutting across efforts to establish and build a workers party. The Red Scare and the defeat of several revolutions from 1918 to 1923including Finland, Germany, Italy, Hungary, Austria, Bavaria, Bulgariawere two important factors in the situation. The temporary stabilization of capitalism referred to as the Roaring 20s was another. There were also major trade-union defeats, such as the failed attempt to organize the steel industry in 1919 and the miners in the Battle for Blair Mountain. All of this put enormous pressure on the labor leaders and they shifted once again to the right.

John Fitzpatrick, leader of the Chicago Federation of Labor, was another factor. Fitzpatrick had been working with the Communists and faced sanctions from the AFL as a result. In April 1923, Samuel Gompers, head of the AFL, ended the subsidy to the CFL, which accounted for roughly half of its budget.

John Pepper arrived in the US in 1922 and created a lot of problems in the heavily factionalized CP / Image: Pal Vajda, Wikimedia Commons

In addition, the Communists made some mistakes which aggravated the situation. The CP was to be given ten delegates out of approximately 500 to the 1923 Chicago convention. The Communists could have also legitimately won delegate positions from union locals and other labor groups. Instead, they used various fraternal organizations to pad their numbers and increase their representation in the convention as a whole. As a result, they ended up with a disproportionately large number of delegates that did not correspond to their real influence in the labor movement at that point in time.

Fitzpatrick and the forces around the CFL ended up deciding that they did not want to move forward with setting up a party at the convention. Once the convention started, however, the Communist delegates, along with other left-wing delegates, simply plowed ahead and pushed the convention to found a party. Fitzpatrick and most of the other unions used this as an excuse to break from the Farmer-Labor movement and to stop working with Communists in the unions altogether. The Farmer-Labor Party that was founded was basically the CP and the small forces around them.

The CP leadership was split into factions, and the leading faction around John Pepper refused to understand that since Fitzpatrick was stepping back, the Communists needed to adjust their strategy. A political ally of Zinoviev, John Pepper (Joseph Pogany) had arrived in the US in the summer of 1922 and created a lot of problems in the party for several years. The CP moved dogmatically forward under the notion that if the Farmer-Labor Party was not set up immediately, it amounted to a betrayal of the working class. But the national party they set up collapsed soon after, and by 1924 the Communists were running their own candidates, having abandoned the Farmer-Labor Party initiative.

What should the CP have done in this situation? With their many delegates, the CP could have played a key role arguing for the need for working-class independence. It should have supported steps forward and argued against steps in the wrong direction. It should have expressed disappointment with the decision of the trade-union leaders to postpone the founding of the party while acknowledging that more work could be done to increase support for a future launch. Those layers that wanted to move forward and were disappointed with the labor leaders would have been brought closer to the Communists, and the Communists could have kept lines of communication open with the other trade-union leaders. Due to rightward pressure from Gompers and his ilk, the CP would have gained from this, and the labor leaders would have been more exposed.

The forces of American Communism were small at this time, but its layer of cadre was larger than anything that exists on the US left in 2021. The CP could have publicly stated that, although it was disappointed by the results of the Chicago convention, it would continue working with these forces, patiently arguing for the way forward. It could have also launched concrete united front campaigns with any and all forces willing to do so. Those forces could have supported Communist candidates, or they could have joined together to run independent working-class candidates in some areas. They could have used all this to popularize the idea that workers need their own party and government. These campaigns may have been modest, but they could have won over the advanced layers and laid a more solid foundation for when the objective situation pushed the movement to the left again. While that was not necessarily an immediate perspective, it was ultimately only a matter of time.

Steps forward and backward and the Great Depression

In spite of its weaknesses, the CP was able to build a foundation for itself in the 1920s and become the premier organization on the left. The CP established a daily paper in English, the Daily Worker, along with other publications, and it had newspapers in other languages as well. In particular, its work in the labor movement, including the Trade Union Education League and the International Labor Defense, allowed it to build a network of support in and around the trade unions. Unfortunately, much of this was destroyed in 1928 when, in deference to Stalin, the CP expelled the Trotskyist Left Opposition, and then the right wing of the party grouped around Jay Lovestone. The Communists then went on an ultraleft binge and went about building independent Red Trade UnionsCommunist unions separate from the already existing mass organizations.

This destructive policy finally came to an end around the time of the 1934 San Francisco Longshoremen strike. By that time, some of the ultraleft policies of the Stalinist Third Period were abandoned. Still, the CP had become a thoroughly Stalinized party as of 1928. Serious internal discussions and debates would not be tolerated any longer, and the party line would be dictated by Moscow. The party leaders and members would follow the line. This was not based on explanation and political conviction but simply on orders from above.

Despite its opportunism from 1935 onward, the CP grew rapidly during the Great Depression, reaching 100,000 members in 1938 / Image: US National Archives

The 1929 stock market crash and the international trade war following the Smoot-Hawley Tariffs devastated US capitalism. Industrial production declined 48.7% from 1929 to 1933. Unemployment soared and long lines formed at soup kitchens. In this context, the AFL leaders, for the most part, continued to oppose organizing industrial unions and to base their policies on what was acceptable within the limits of the capitalist system. In this context, the main alternative on the left was the CP. It was the largest force, it was part of the Communist International, and it was connected with the USSR, the worlds only workers statewhich, although ruled by a degenerate bureaucracy, had understandable prestige among the advanced layers of the working class.

After burning his fingers with ultraleft policies, which facilitated Hitlers rise to power in Germany, Stalin had the Comintern turn to opportunist Popular Front and Peoples Front programs. This new line encouraged class collaboration as opposed to working-class political independence. These policies blended nicely with the pressures from the American ruling class on the CP, and the party began to adapt accordingly. The CP, correctly, had never supported Republicans or Democrats from 1919 to 1934. This began to change for the worse.

Despite its opportunism from 1935 onward, the CP continued to grow. It was growing not because of its opportunism but in spite of it. Most of its recruits saw it as the party of the working class and socialism. The Trotskyists also grew from just over 100 in 1929 to more than 2,000 members by 1938but they remained much smaller than the CP, which went from about 9,000 to 100,000 members in the same period. Both the CP and the Trotskyists had even larger layers of sympathizers around them.

Important strikes led by the Trotskyists, the Musteites, and the CP in 1934 lead to a split in the AFL leadership and the creation of the Congress of Industrial Organizations (CIO). The CP played a big role in the new CIO unions, eventually leading unions with over 800,000 members, including the Transport Workers Union, United Electrical workers, the Distributive Workers union, and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union on the Pacific Coast. They also had important influence in other CIO unions, such as the UAW and the Steelworkers. We will examine the CIO in more detail later on.

In the 1930s, with correct policies, the CP could have become a mass party. Arguably, at its height, it was more of a factor in the working class and society as a whole than the Socialist Party of America ever was. The CP could have put organized pressure from the left on John L. Lewis, and other CIO leaderswho would be forced to shift left or face a major loss of support. The CIO leaders would have needed to form a labor party to cut across the growth of the CP. But this was not done. This was a major lost opportunity for the working class. Stalinism squandered it and instead supported Roosevelt and the Democrats for the majority of his presidency.

In September 1939, World War II began in Europe with Hitlers invasion of Poland. Just a few days earlier, the Hitler-Stalin Pact had been announced. Shortly after this treaty became public, the CP adjusted its policies, reducing its attacks against fascism and German militarism and modifying its supportive policies toward the Democrats. There was an estimated loss of one out of every seven members between 1939 and 1940.

During the war, the CP followed the Cominterns political line of class collaboration with US and British imperialism / Image: Milner Library, Illinois State University

However, in June 1941, Hitler invaded the USSR. The Comintern and the CP once again changed their policies, now supporting US imperialism as part of the popular front against fascism. Stalin had the Comintern dissolved in 1943, without even calling an international Congress or conducting any internal discussion and debate in the various Communist Parties. Earl Browder, the head of the American CP at the time, took these policies to their logical conclusion and the Communist Party dissolved itself in 1944. It became the Communist Political Associationjust another pressure group on the Democrats. Neither Stalin nor any of his top people took any action until the war in Europe was close to an end, at which point they anticipated that US imperialism would start a more aggressive policy toward the Soviet Union, especially under Truman. In June and July 1945, Browder was removed from leadership and the CP was reconstituted. Browder was eventually expelled in 1946.

World War II was an inter-imperialist war, like World War I, with the important exception that the USSR was a factor in the wara workers state to be defended unconditionally against imperialism, in spite of the Stalinist bureaucracy. Marxists should have used the contradictions and opportunities of the war as a way to build a leadership and lead the working class to power. A workers government in the US with internationalist and socialist policies would defeat not only fascism, but also imperialist militarism and capitalism itself.

During the war, the CP followed the Cominterns political line. This meant class collaboration with US and British imperialism against the Axis. In practice, the CPs heavy influence in the labor movement meant they opposed strikes and other job actions, helping the bosses profit from the war while the working class paid the bill. In contrast, John L. Lewis, who was not at all a radical, led his members in the UMW on illegal strikes during the war. The CPs policies undermined the way the workers looked at the Communists and the union leaders under their influence. When the new postwar Red Scare began in the labor movement, the CPs policies during the war made it more difficult to rally workers support. The way they struggled against the repressions of the late 1940s and 1950s also weakened their position.

The CP politically tailed Henry Wallaceone of FDRs former vice presidentswhen he split from the Democrats in 1948 and ran as the Progressive Party candidate for president. This was not a step toward a workers party. Wallace was diverting workers to popular-front politics that would only temporarily be independent of the Democrats.

Then, in 1956, workers rose up in the Hungarian Revolution seeking not a return to capitalism, but the overthrow of the Stalinist bureaucracy. The Stalinist bureaucracy sent in the tanks and crushed this attempt at political revolution. This, along with the Khrushchev revelations in his Secret Speech against Stalin at the 20th Congress of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, led to the American CP losing a large part of its membership and periphery. Since the 1950s, the CPUSA has basically had a policy of working with the left wing of the Democratic Party. The CP, which could have become a mass party in the 1930s, became a sect. They had a daily paper until the late 1980s, a weekly paper after that, and since 2009, they simply have a website, with no regular printed publication.

The lesson here is that without theory, without the method of dialectical materialism applied to the questions of party building, the results are always a disaster. If applied in a balanced way, the Marxist method will keep us from the mistakes of opportunism and sectarianism and ensure we focus on processes as they unfold and develop over time. We cannot necessarily expect immediate success, but the work we do today can lead to a transformation tomorrow. If new people are joining the CPUSA today and trying to revive it, they should take a serious approach. They should really study Marxist theory and history and seek to learn what went wrong. These past mistakes explain the state of the CPUSA today.

The CIO and the possibility of a mass labor party

As we have seen, the path to an American mass workers party seemed likely to come via the Socialist Party or Communist Party becoming a mass force over time. In both cases, it was not so much objective obstacles as serious weaknesses in the leadership that were decisive in the failure to achieve this.

We also explained that there were other times when the path to a mass workers party in the US more or less followed the pattern in the English-speaking world: build labor unions first, and then the unions build a labor party. We noted that there were possibilities for a labor party emerging in this way in the late 1800s and in the early 1920s.

The Communist League of America led the 1934 Minneapolis Teamsters strike. It was the most successful of four major strikes which pressured union leaders to form the CIO in 1935 / Image: WBUR Bostons NPR News Station, Flickr

In addition to those past opportunities, the massive growth of unions in the 1930sespecially industrial unionsand the mass movement of plant occupations and sit-down strikes, along with mass picketing and militant struggle, provided a perfect opportunity for the formation of a mass labor party in the US.

The devastation of the Great Depression sharpened the class struggle. At first, the working class was stunned and the number of strikes and other job actions decreased, as workers feared losing their jobs. There were movements of unemployed workers fighting for jobs or income, a related movement by World War I veterans to get relief, and struggles by tenants against evictions.

All of this, along with a weak economic recovery from the trough of the first slump, gave the workers more confidence to fight back. In 1934, there were four major strikes, three of them successful while the fourth was defeated with vicious measures by the ruling class.

The successful strikes took place in Minneapolis, Toledo, and San Francisco. The Minneapolis Teamsters strike was led by the Communist League of America, part of Trotskys International Left Opposition. The Toledo Auto-Lite strike was led by followers of A.J. Muste, who at that time were centrists moving toward revolutionary and Marxist conclusions. The San Francisco longshoremen strike was led by the Stalinists, who were starting to move away from their ultraleft policies of the Red Trade Unions. The fourth strike was a massive textile strike involving 400,000 workers from New England to the South. The police and National Guard killed and injured some of the workers, and in Georgia, some strikers were placed in a former POW concentration camp facility.

Up until 1935, the AFL had some three million members, and there were another 600,000 workers organized in independent unions. The AFL unions were mostly organized on a craft basis, although some of their unions, like the mineworkers and the clothing and textile workers, were industrialmeaning that all of the workers in the industry, regardless of title, were organized into one union. There were also some AFL Localsunion locals directly affiliated to the federationwhich had a more industrial structure. There was a clear need for a massive organizing drive to build industrial unions in industries like steel, automobile, rubber, farm equipment, electrical appliances, and related parts. There was also demand for unions for retail workers, warehouse workers, telephone operators, public workers, and numerous other occupations.

As was mentioned above, a split began in 1935 with the formation of the Committee on Industrial Organization within the AFL. The split, which was led by John L. Lewis of the United Mine Workers, was finally completed in 1938, and the name was changed to the Congress of Industrial Organizations. Lewis and some of the other labor leaders saw the pressure that was building up in the working class. They noticed that this pressure was finding an expression in the political left. Lewis and the CIO leaders worked with the CP organizing the new unions. This was the same Lewis who had fought the CP so diligently in the 1920s. One lesson here is that formerly right-wing labor leaders can move to the left if they feel that they need to get ahead of and contain the struggle of the working class.

A large part of CIO organizing came as a result of the sit-down strikes. The Flint Michigan General Motors strike lasted 43 days from December 1936 to February 1937 / Image: Sheldon Dick, Wikimedia Commons

In 1935, the CIO unions had about one million members, and the remaining AFL unions had around two million. Five years later, after some CIO unions left and rejoined the AFL, the AFL membership had reached 4.2 million, the CIO had 3.8 million, and there were another two million workers in independent unions. In other words, over the course of just five years, labor rocketed from 3.6 million to 10 million, nearly tripling its membership!

We must be clear that a large part of the CIO organizing came as a result of the sit-down strikes. In his book Labors Giant Step, Art Preis writes: Of the 484,711 sitdowners between September 1936 and June 1937, some 278,000 belonged to new unions and 182,000 to unions formed since the start of the NRA[5] in 1933. These were strikes where the workers challenged private property itself. A plant occupation poses the question: who is really in charge of the workplace?

As part of this wave of sitdowns, the Flint Michigan General Motors strike lasted 43 days from December 30, 1936 to February 11, 1937. These strikes were mostly successful in forcing the bosses to recognize the union, and they created a situation where union organizing implicitly threatened this kind of action. Many employers were less willing to fight so hard against the union when they feared they might have to deal with their facilities being occupied and placed under workers control. In this way, the AFL was also able to grow. Some employers sought to have their workers organized by the AFL rather than by the Communist CIO.

Movements toward a labor party

In the middle and late 1930s, there was a lot of sentiment for a labor party. Some unions, like the Amalgamated Clothing Workers, were on record as calling for a labor party. Some of the new CIO unions also passed resolutions along these lines, or at least debated them. A debate over whether a labor party should be established even took place at the AFL convention of 1935.

However, the AFL leaders were dead set against it, as were John L. Lewis and his supporters in the CIO. All of the labor leaders were in alliance with FDR and his so-called New Deal, even though it actually did very little for the working class. Still, given the sentiment for a labor party, there were three organized, though contradictory, expressions in this direction. However, these were used by the leadership to hold the working class back.

The first expression was the Minnesota Farmer-Labor Party, mentioned in the earlier section. This could best be seen as a party in transition. Would it become a genuine labor party? Would the petty bourgeoisie predominate and eliminate it? The structure of the FLP allowed various kinds of fraternal organizations to dominate the party and outvote the workers. As Vincent R. Dunne explained to Trotsky in 1938:

The FLP is based upon workers economic organizationstrade unions, cooperatives, etc., farmers cooperative organizations; also upon territorial unitstownship clubs, etc. It also allows for the affiliation of cultural organizations, sick-and-death-benefit organizations, etc., also through ward clubs. The Stalinists and intellectuals join through these clubs; they have more control than the drivers local of 4,000 members. We are fighting against thatwe are demanding that the trade unions be given their real representationwe have the support of the trade unions on this.

Through their control of these clubs, the petty bourgeoisie, led by the Stalinists, would make sure the FLP endorsed FDR for president and, in other instances, make deals to support capitalist candidates for certain offices. The clear battle here was on three fronts: changing the structure of the party so the working class labor unions could exercise democratic control through its labor unions; standing against the capitalist parties everywhere they could, opposing lesser-evilism and popular frontism; and fighting for a program that called for a workers government with socialist policies. Due to the continued domination by the alien class layers, the FLP was folded into the Democratic Party in 1944.

The second contradictory expression toward a labor party was the establishment of Labors Non-Partisan League (LNPL) on April 2, 1936. This was an attempt by Lewis and other CIO leaders to tap into the mood for a labor party, while diverting it into safe, pro-FDR channels. The idea was that the LNPL would be the political arm of the CIO. It could help elect labor candidates by raising money and providing foot soldiers. The name, Non-Partisan, seemed to imply that labor was not going to be tied to any one political party, yet right from the start, the leaders used this to support FDR in his 1936 reelection.

ILGWU leader Dubinsky, pictured here with Eleanor Roosevelt and Rose Schneiderman, used the ALP to get his members who voted Socialist or Communist to vote for Democrats and Republicans / Image: Kheel Center, Wikimedia Commons

The key task for Marxists was to support the positive aspects of this initiative, while exposing its contradictory and negative aspects. Marxists could have said to the workers: We, the working class, need our own party. The LNPL could be a step forward in this direction, but only if it directs its efforts toward independent labor candidates, or better yet, toward establishing a labor party. The Marxists could have provided facts, figures, and arguments to expose Roosevelt and the Democrats. In 1936, there were hardly any workers, especially in the CIO, that would support a Republican. If the Marxists had been in the vanguard on this, they could have gained a lot of support. It would have created real difficulties for the labor leaders. The Trotskyists were small. They were in the SP at this time, but they were not on point on this question, although this was later corrected in 1938.

The third contradictory expression was the New York State affiliate of the LNPL, the American Labor Party (ALP). In New York State, the capitalists electoral laws allow fusion voting. This means that a candidate can appear on the ballot under two or more parties, and all of the votes for the candidate on the different party lines are totaled up to determine the winner.

The labor leaders, especially the ILGWUs leader Dubinsky, wanted their members who voted Socialist and/or Communist to vote for some Democrats and liberal Republicans, like NYC Mayor LaGuardia. By setting up the ALP, there would be class-independent candidates running on the ALP ballot line, but for some offices, like president or mayor, they would endorse FDR or others from the bosses parties. Mike Quill, founder of the New York Transport Workers Union who at the time was around the CP, was elected to the New York City Council on the ALP line.

The correct position for Marxists was to explain that, from the perspective of class independence, fusion means confusion. Genuine socialists should join the ALP, build the ALP, and campaign for the partys candidates. But they should make two things clear: 1) the party should not support capitalist candidates like FDR and LaGuardia; 2) the partys own candidates should never run on the Democratic or Republican Party lines.

There is no question that if Lewis, Hillman, Dubinsky, and the CIO leaders had built a labor party in the 1930s, this party would have changed US politics. The labor leaders did not do this because of their ties with FDR and the ruling class. Even though the US was in a massive slump, US imperialism was still growing in power compared to its rivals. Also, World War II cut across the process, with millions of young workers drafted into the armed forces and away from home. On the basis of wartime production, unemployment dropped to 2%.

Given the circumstances, the labor leaders would only have taken this road if there was a sizable threat from the left. Unfortunately, the Trotskyists were too small to play this role, and, as was explained earlier, the CP only became another obstacle to the formation of a workers party.

The sacrifices that the workers made during the Great Depression and the war years, coupled with the huge profits the capitalists raked in, led to a big wave of strikes throughout the US in late 1945 and into 1946. There were strikes of auto, steel, and electrical workers, meatpackers, and others. There were several citywide general strikes including in Oakland, Stamford, and Lancaster.

This led to the continued pressure for a labor party, which was expressed in some debates at various union conventions and occasionally in some elections. However, the one-two punch of the postwar boom and the second coming of the Red Scare, which began in the late 1940s and extended to the 1950s, ended serious discussion on the question of the labor party.

The boom came to an end with the slump in the middle 1970s. And the labor party question did come back in the late 1980s and the 1990s, as we analyze in our 2018 article The Fight for Socialism and the Lessons of the Labor Party.

Perspectives for a mass working-class socialist party

Nobody has a crystal ball with which to see future developments. But it is clear that the crisis of American and world capitalism will sharpen the class struggle in the years to come. Marxists argue that the American working class will eventually find a way forward out of its current impasse, overcome the objective and subjective obstacles in its wayincluding the present leadershipand build its own party. It is impossible to know precisely what path this will take. But one thing is clear: the more socialist activists there are fighting for class independence, the less protracted the process will be and the sooner humanity can get out of the nightmare of capitalism.

We believe three main developments will coalesce in some form towards the establishment of a mass workers party:

An increase in strikes and fights to organize the unorganized, along with other similar struggles, will create militant left oppositions in the unions. This would push forward a tendency for the unions to establish a labor party which would eventually gain mass support. The present labor leadership, with almost no exceptions, will not support a mass labor party. In fact, it will fight tooth and nail against it, so a left opposition in the labor movement would have to gain a lot of strength to break through the logjam. Up to this point, mass movements such as Black Lives Matter and Occupy have not tried to express themselves by establishing a political organization and running candidates independently from the two major parties. However, as we have seen in other countries recently, future expressions of these or other movements may challenge the political structure in a more conscious way. If this were to occur, it might establish a transitional form of party from which a workers party could eventually be born. This would necessarily be a complicated process and would not unfold in a straight line. Hegel explained that historical necessity expresses itself through accident. In todays conditions, an accidental figurean AOC, Colin Kaepernick, or someone as yet completely unknown (as was the case with Ralph Nader or Bernie Sanders)could change course, run for office independently of the two parties, and channel the anger and hopes of the working class. This also would be a complicated and contradictory development. Marxists would need to accompany these experiences and skillfully push forward the ideas of working-class independence, while patiently explaining the need for a revolutionary program.

The building of a workers party will be an uneven process. It may also start in a particular region or in a few states before becoming a truly national party. Whatever the specifics may be, there will be enormous pressure from the whole of bourgeois society against the formation of a mass workers party, which would sound the death knell of the Democrats and would also seriously compromise the Republicans.

When a mass workers party is eventually established, it needs to be armed with Marxism or it will not be up to the tasks posed to it by history. A reformist labor party will simply try to manage the calamity of capitalism. What is needed is its overthrow. At this stage, the IMT has no control over the broad strokes of this process. What we can control is whether or not we build a large and strong Marxist tendency, with growing influence in a section of the working class that can intervene in such a party. With sufficient forces, we can play a role in resisting the pressure of the ruling class and win larger layers of the party to a revolutionary socialist program and perspective.

We need a sense of urgency now, even though a mass workers party might seem like a distant prospect / Image: Socialist Revolution

In the present political vacuum, socialist or worker candidates running independently of the two major parties are a step forward. The aim of such campaigns is not so much to win, but to use elections as a platform for presenting socialist ideas, to recruit and build a larger foundation of socialists around the country. Such campaigns may not lead to a full-on workers party in the short term, but they could help to pave the way for such a development in the future.

In this context we have argued that although groups like DSA do not have the resources to build a mass workers party immediately, they could point the way forward for the working class and help burn away illusions in the two parties. Nobody is saying this is easy, but the path of lesser-evil politics and running on the Democratic Party line has been the main tactic employed by the labor movement and the left since the 1940s and has led only to disaster for working people.

Independent electoral campaigns at this stage will likely not win office and may not even get many votes, but they can be brought to unions, workplaces, tenants associations, schools, and working-class neighborhoods. They could help to establish groups of socialists in all of these locations. Five socialists in a workplace or a union local can build wide support, but this takes time. The main message they should be putting forward is that under capitalism, what is produced from the workers labor ends up in the pockets of the rich. A workers government with socialist policies could bring an end to this. When this happens, problems like unemployment, debt, poverty, and more could be eliminated, dramatically improving living standards for everyone.

We must keep our eyes open when political opportunities and movements in the direction of a mass workers party open up, supporting the progressive aspects and constructively criticizing any political errors. If we arm ourselves with these important historical lessons, we can change the future and help usher in a new world.

There are no shortcuts to this goal, and sitting on the sidelines waiting for better times will only delay the process further. Those who recognize the need for an independent working-class political party and who want to help build the necessary foundation should seriously consider joining the IMT today. We need a sense of urgency now, even though a mass workers party might seem like a distant prospect. It is one thing to work within a mass workers party with 500 trained Bolshevik cadresbut quite another to do this with 5,000 or 10,000. The clock is ticking and history is accelerating. We must do our utmost not to be caught unprepared.

Footnotes

[1] Followers of Henry George were known as Georgists. Henry George believed the evils of society were caused by monopoly ownership of the land. He thought a land tax could solve this, without eradicating capitalism per se.

[2] The CP was known as the Workers Party as of December 1921 and later as the Workers (Communist) Party. After 1929 it became known as the Communist Party USA or CPUSA. For clarity, we will refer to them as Communist Party or CP throughout.

[3] The main section became the Social Democrats, an anti-Communist organization that supported Democrats who were Hawks on Vietnam. Another section formed a small sect, the SP-USA. The remaining piece formed the Democratic Socialist Organizing Committee, which later evolved into the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA).

[4] To learn more about the early CP factions, see our articles on the CPUSA as well as James Cannons History of American Trotskyism and First Ten Years of American Communism.

[5] The NRA was the National Recovery Administration, part of FDRs New Deal. It had a component which supported the right of workers to organize, but when push came to shove, the state was on the side of the employers, although it could require some concessions from them from time to time.

Originally published 21 October at socialistrevolution.org |
In their attempts to block the new left-wing leadership in Unison, the right-wing bureaucracy are looking to tie the left up in legal wrangles. The only way forward is to mobilise the rank and file. Defend the union! Let the members decide!

The law is like a spiders web. The weak get caught, and the powerful simply rip it up. (Solon of Athens)

The struggle in Unison between the elected left-wing leadership and the right-wing bureaucracy has reached new heights, with threats of legal action. The time has come for the left to grasp the nettle.

As we have reported previously, the bureaucracy has now stepped up its attacks, in the face of a series of bold resolutions passed by the NEC, which served to clearly define its powers against the constant obstructions of the Unison officialdom.

Leaning on its legal department, the right wing contemptuously declared the NEC resolutions to be illegal and ultra vires. These assertions were then used to intimidate NEC members.

This declaration of illegality was endorsed by a junior barrister, Stuart Brittenden. And in a circular to all branches, the general secretary upped the ante by publicly denouncing the NEC.

This was nothing more than a declaration of open war by the right-wing cabal controlling the union machinery.

Sabotage

The full-time officials are clearly acting as a party within a party  or more like a state within a state, with the general secretary acting as a law unto herself. This in a union that is supposed to be membership-led! What a travesty!

The newly-elected leadership  although backed by the membership  is in office, but not in power. All the decisions are taken by unelected officials, behind the backs of the members.

Whenever the left NEC has attempted to use the internal communications of the union, for instance, they have been blocked. The right wing is trying to silence the elected leadership.

We must put a stop to this outrage! This means openly appealing to the rank and file of the union and exposing this sabotage.

Privileges

The new left-wing NEC poses a dire threat to the ruling bureaucracy, which fears losing the power and privileges that it has enjoyed under right-wing patronage for the last two decades.

While the left should not rule out going to court, it should not hold much confidence in this process. The courts are not friends of the labour movement / Image: Lonpicman, Wikimedia Commons

A big part of this is the cosy relationship that they have built up with right-wing Labour councils and employers. This has allowed these councillors to get away with cuts and privatisation, resulting in tens of thousands of job losses, with the union right wing turning a blind eye.

That is why  in order to protect their wages and conditions  the members need to get rid of this reactionary bureaucracy.

Of course, behind the Unison right wing is the ruling-class establishment, who are very interested in keeping the union  the biggest in the country  in safe hands.

They lost control of Unite to the left, and are determined not to lose Unison with its 1.3 million members. There is too much at stake. This explains their determination and aggression.

Resolutions

To counter the right wings attacks, left NEC members hit back by seeking legal opinion from Lord Hendy QC about the status of their resolutions.

Hendy is a leading expert on trade union law. His opinion contrasted in every possible way the legal advice obtained by the general secretary. Lord Hendy stated explicitly that all the resolutions passed at the last NEC were perfectly lawful.

When the general secretary was sent this legal opinion, the right wing immediately sought a further legal opinion from Michael Forde QC, in order to bolster their case.

While Brittenden  a junior council  ruled four of the six NEC resolutions to be unlawful, Forde instead decided that two of these were probably unlawful and ultra vires; another was definitely unlawful; while a further motion was considered perfectly lawful.

The lawful one (resolution 5) gave powers to the NEC to consider any members suspension of over four weeks duration; and, as thought appropriate, to be able to remove or continue the suspension.

In this case, both QCs Hendy and Forde both agreed, in opposition to the junior council, that the NEC resolution on suspensions was in order.

Victimisation

Notwithstanding the others, the NEC should now proceed to immediately use the powers vested in it by this resolution to promptly raise the unjust suspension of Paul Holmes, the democratically-elected President of Unison, who has clearly been victimised.

The NEC should promptly raise the unjust suspension of Paul Holmes, the democratically-elected President of Unison, who has clearly been victimised / Image: Socialist Appeal

This move would be regarded as a great victory under the circumstances, and would also send a signal to Pauls employers to back off in their attempts to frame a union activist.

Pauls final disciplinary hearing in front of the employers is scheduled for 5 November. The maximum pressure must be brought to bear on his bosses in the next two weeks. They must be forced to realise that all hell will break loose if they threaten to sack him, including industrial action.

It is clear that the union bureaucracy is in league with Pauls employers to dismiss him. They believe that, in doing so, he will lose his seat on the NEC.

If they try this manoeuvre, a battle royale will open up, the likes of which they have never seen. This must include a national recall Unison conference.

Entangled

Opining on the aforementioned resolutions, Michael Forde QC concluded:

I do not see any prospect of the legal representatives of the various interested parties agreeing what is the correct legal analysis, even if all parties were represented, as the divergent analyses to date illustrate. I regret that, for the moment, the only prospect I see of resolving the matter is through a court hearing.

The left should tread very carefully on this question. The law is certainly a spiders web that can tangle you up.

While the left should not rule out going to court, it should not hold much confidence in this process. The left certainly cannot rely on a fair and just outcome.

The courts are not friends of the labour movement. We have seen this in the way they have been used by the employers to prevent workers striking. Similarly, Corbyn recently tried to get justice in the courts but failed.

These institutions are part of the establishment. Sometimes, it is true, they can come down on the side of the left, so as to maintain an air of impartiality. But it is not always the case. As far as Unison is concerned, the establishment has a vested interest in supporting the bureaucracy.

Incidentally, it would suit the right wing if the left were tied up in the courts. Hypocritically, they would accuse the left of wasting time and resources while members were preparing to strike.

Lessons

The main overriding task of the left must be get its message out to the rank and file of the union. In fact, the tactic of the right wing is to bog down the NEC in all sorts of wrangles; tie the left in knots, so to speak; and wear them down. In doing so, they hope to split the left and demoralise activists.

Corbyns key mistake was to try to placate the right wing, instead of mobilising the membership to introduce mandatory reselection for MPs and councillors / Image: Socialist Appeal

The parallels with the Corbyn movement are clear. Despite holding the leadership of the party and having a majority amongst the membership, the left faced constant sabotage from the right-wing dominated PLP and the Labour bureaucracy. In fact, Unison supplied a number of these Labour bureaucrats.

Corbyns key mistake was to try to placate the right wing, instead of mobilising the membership to introduce mandatory reselection for MPs and councillors. This weakness cost the movement dearly. This must not be allowed to happen in Unison.

Defence

The idea has been raised about calling a national meeting of left Unison activists. This should be done as soon as possible, under the banner of defend the union.

Furthermore, a national meeting of union reps should be called over the issue of pay, and the looming possibility of industrial action. If pay demands and campaigns are coordinated between the health and local government sectors of the union, this could see 90% of the membership taking action at the same time.

The bureaucracy has been calling regional council meetings to pass resolutions against the left NEC. The left should therefore respond by organising its own regional meetings, with the aim of establishing defend the union committees in every area. This will be an important way of circumventing the bureaucratic impasse and giving a voice to the membership.

Such an initiative should be linked to the strike ballots currently taking place. Action by large sections of the Unison membership would draw new layers into activity. This would help to strengthen the left and weaken the right, and to further shake up the union.

Fightback

If the bureaucracy continues its offensive, which it certainly will, the left should say: enough is enough!

The left should call a special national recall Unison conference  the highest body of the union  as soon as possible, to put everything on the table. This should include any rules changes that are deemed necessary.

If the bureaucracy continues its offensive, which it certainly will, the left should say: enough is enough! / Image: Socialist Appeal

Let the rank and file decide! This is far more preferable than going to the courts and putting matters in the hands of a judge.

The right-wing bureaucracy has held the membership in contempt for years, blocking any attempt to launch a real fightback over pay, pensions, and jobs. Instead, they have placed their faith in rotten deals with the employers, while witch-hunting activists. This was the picture during the Prentis years.

The election of a new left leadership must signal a complete break with that discredited past. As is the intention, Unison must be transformed into a member-led fighting union.

With a clear strategy aimed at mobilising the membership, and an iron determination to win, the right-wing Unison bureaucracy can be defeated. Such a victory would not only be a gain for the members, but constitute a historic win for the entire labour and trade union movement.


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Professor Ameenah Gurib-Fakim, the former President of Mauritius and Laureate of the 2007 LOreal-UNESCO Prize for Women in Science, delivered a trenchant address at the African Export-Import Banks (Afreximbank) fifth annual Babacar Ndiaye Lecture on the importance of science, technology and innovation in the transformation of African economies. She called on African leaders to close the regions science and technology gap to take full advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Professor Gurib-Fakim, delivered the keynote speech at the Banks annual flagship event and laid bare a raft of statistics that showed that Africa is falling well behind the rest of the world in science, technology, and innovation (STI). Only 0.1% of all patent applications are registered in Africa, compared to 65% in Asia and 25% in North America. Africa is also responsible for only 2% of the worlds research output and 1% of research spending. Furthermore, the laggards in Africa have 11 researchers per million people whilst the best performing countries in the world, such as South Korea and Denmark had between 7,000-8,000 scientists and researchers per million people.

How can a continent with the largest share of arable land, a continent with the youngest population, a continent that has fueled all of the worlds industrial revolution, a continent that has helped drive the mobile phone industry, a continent that is at the cusp of supporting the worlds energy transition to greener technology with a large store of rare earth deposits accept such dismal statistics? she asked.

Professor Gurib-Fakim, delivered the keynote speech at the Banks annual flagship event and laid bare a raft of statistics that showed that Africa is falling well behind the rest of the world in science, technology, and innovation (STI). Only 0.1% of all patent applications are registered in Africa, compared to 65% in Asia and 25% in North America. Africa is also responsible for only 2% of the worlds research output and 1% of research spending. Furthermore, the laggards in Africa have 11 researchers per million people whilst the best performing countries in the world, such as South Korea and Denmark had between 7,000-8,000 scientists and researchers per million people.

How can a continent with the largest share of arable land, a continent with the youngest population, a continent that has fueled all of the worlds industrial revolution, a continent that has helped drive the mobile phone industry, a continent that is at the cusp of supporting the worlds energy transition to greener technology with a large store of rare earth deposits accept such dismal statistics? she asked.

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In October 2021, Dale Carnegie Training will commemorate its 109th anniversary with this annual program: The Dale Carnegie Global Day of Giving.

The event will unite Dale Carnegie offices around the world as they deliver special training programs to local schools, non-profits and other charitable agencies that provide services to young people.

For more than a century, Dale Carnegie has supported global communities by transforming the lives and career potential of people through human relationship skill building. Dale Carnegies thriving franchise network, spanning 90 countries, is committed to helping its local communities prosper.



The Global Day of Giving will focus on providing leadership and life skills to youth and the agency staff workers who support young people. With over 100 Dale Carnegie offices worldwide participating  including centers in Mauritius, Argentina, Austria, Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, England, France, Hong Kong, India, Japan, Kuwait, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Romania, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Vietnam and many others  several thousand young people are expected to benefit from this event.

Over the years, Dale Carnegie Franchisees have dedicated immense time and resources to enriching their communities, continuing our founders legacy through deep and longstanding local relationships, says Joe Hart, CEO of Dale Carnegie Training. We are thrilled to mobilize our unsurpassed global network as a single unit in October.

In the local context Dale Carnegie Mauritius has reached out to its loyal partners who have selected and nominated some of the NGOs and foundations they collaborate with through their various CSR programmes and invited them to participate in the workshop.

The 2-3 hour Global Day of Giving workshop is personalized to suit the needs of each individual local agency, and will focus on one of three themes: Leadership Development, Stress Management, and/or Intentional Living. The goal is to provide underserved youth and agency staff workers with techniques that will improve their communication skills, strengthen their people skills, and enhance their success at work and in daily life.

For over 100 years, Dale Carnegie has been a part of the local landscape, helping leaders at every level achieve greater influence and be more effective. We believe the human relationship principles this company is built on need to be shared widely. This initiative is a great way to provide transformational skills development to people who might not otherwise have a chance to attend one of our courses, says Hart.

We want to be sure that our young people, especially our at-risk populations, have the skills they need to succeed in life. I cant think of a better way to celebrate our founding than by helping others make a change for the better.

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The lawsuit also claims the use of Red 40, a synthetic food dye, makes the Pop-Tarts filing look bright red, like it is only strawberries or has more strawberries than it does. Other similar products from Walmarts Great Value brand and Dollar Trees Clover Valley include a disclaimer that the breakfast pastries are Naturally & Artificially Flavored, according to the lawsuit, and are therefore more honest with customers.
Another Republican who voted against the amendment, Rep. Mark Gillen of Berks County, said he didnt like customized legislation that appeared to favor certain entities. Nonetheless, he said he favored the larger bill because  saddled as the state is with a complex alcohol-sales system  it has got to have a level playing field.
The bill also calls for interview protocols to be developed by teams that choose to contact family members or caregivers. The protocols, according to the bill, would address collection and use of data, providing notice to the family that the interview is voluntary, and making sure the information is kept confidential.
The Nov. 2 election to replace outgoing Justice Thomas Saylor, a Republican, will not change the balance of power on the bench, where Democrats currently hold five of seven seats. But the new justice will have a hand in what cases the court accepts and will weigh in on significant matters in the coming months, including one that could change how the state funds its poorest school districts.
Nugent is charged with vehicular homicide while DUI, vehicular homicide and causing death or personal injury while not properly licensed and causing serious bodily injury or death, all felonies, along with unauthorized use of a vehicle, DUI, simple possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia possession, all misdemeanors. Hes also charged with citations including reckless driving, careless driving causing an unintentional death, crossing lanes and driving with a license suspended or revoked due to DUI.
Burley, ID (83318)

Today

Intervals of clouds and sunshine. High around 45F. Winds W at 15 to 25 mph..

Tonight

A mostly clear sky. Low 24F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph.
Its time for Americans to buy less stu [:][daemonself] , 2021102509:05:16 ,429,2 APP   0  [:1 ] daemonself   board=USANews&u=daemonself [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [ 1 ] : daemonself (), : USANews

 : Its time for Americans to buy less stuff

: BBS  (Mon Oct 25 09:05:16 2021, )



ate less, now  shit less



https://www.vox.com/the-goods/22725031/buying-less-supply-chain-holiday-

shopping



Thanks to the supply chain crisis, holiday shopping wont be easy this year

 even if you buy early.



By Terry Nguyen Oct 21, 2021, 8:30am EDT





In September, I started getting pesky emails from brands hinting that I

should get a head start on my holiday shopping. Next came the headlines, and

then the reminders from social media users dishing out the same advice.

Holiday shopping starts a little earlier every year, but this isnt just

the typical push. People are encouraged to order their gifts as soon as

possible or risk having packages arrive late, due to rampant supply chain

disruptions and mailing delays. Even books (yes, books!) arent safe from

the impending shortages.



The holiday shopping industrial complex feels especially unavoidable in 2021

, with Halloween still more than a week away. Amazon, Macys, Target, and

Walmart have launched early-bird sales, and retailers are preparing to dish

out millions of dollars on ads for strong fourth-quarter sales.





The pandemic briefly curbed consumer spending, but not for very long: As the

country opened back up, Americans felt the urge to get out and shop, an

impulse that retailers and marketers happily indulged. The early fall

holiday shopping schedule is billed to benefit customers by reducing their

annual holiday stress, which will likely be compounded by supply chain

delays. But when the early bird catches the worm (and the sales), the

retailers rake in all the profits.



Early holiday shopping sprees are good news for retail corporations,

logistics companies, and the US economy, but bad, ultimately, for millions

of workers (manufacturing, retail, logistics, warehouse) and the planet.

Instead of opting to order our Christmas presents early, perhaps now is the

time to reconsider Americas great shopping addiction.





When the stuff we want is so hard to get ahold of, why go to such great

lengths to buy it? Consumers have the option to not order items manufactured

overseas, to source things locally from small businesses or artisans. We

also have a choice that eliminates the potential for shipping or supply

chain mishaps: We can just buy less.





We know that our collective consumption of consumer goods, from the creation

of plastic toys to the fossil fuels that ship them to our homes, isnt

good for the environment. Yes, on a consumer level, our ability to control

resource consumption is minimal, but that doesnt mean theres no good in

a holiday season where gift exchanges dont require an Amazon Prime account

or transit via multiple shipping containers. Mindfulness has its own

benefits, especially for affluent consumers, which includes Americas upper

-middle class. The higher-income consumers among us use far more resources

than the less well-off and are responsible for influencing shopping norms at

large.



Americans are now more aware than ever of the global supply chain and its

vulnerability to unexpected snarls (like the Suez Canal blockage), raw-

material shortages, and shipping delays. Experts predict that these problems

, set off by the pandemic, wont let up until 2022 or 2023. To help reduce

supply chain backlogs, the Biden administration has ordered major ports and

shipping companies, including Walmart, UPS, and FedEx, to increase their

working hours. These domestic efforts, while heartening for consumers, are

unlikely to assuage existing supply and demand issues across the world.



Meanwhile, the growing severity of climate disasters threatens to impact how

we produce, source, and ship these goods, raw materials, and the food we

eat. Product shortages and delays, it seems, are the new normal. At the end

of this logistic maze is the shopper, whose buying tendencies are cultivated

and incentivized from a young age. The entire consumer enterprise could be

summed up in one Ariana Grande lyric: I see it, I like it, I want it, I

got it.



If these supply chain problems are expected to persist, however, we must be

prepared to curb our shopping habits. Conscious or decreased consumption

might not move the needle much on climate change or improve the exploitative

working conditions faced by those who produce and ship our goods, but that

doesnt mean we have to be trapped in a cycle of thoughtless buying. The

alternative isnt a moral neutral. Must we continue to drown in our

unlimited and unfettered need for more stuff, or could we start buying less?



In his book The Uninhabitable Earth, journalist David Wallace-Wells wrote

that there is something of a moral crime in how much you and I and

everyone we know consume, given how little is available to consume for so

many other people on the planet.



Shopping, by this logic, is a sin, one that Americans cant live without.

Well-intentioned consumers have tried to do the next-best thing: Shop

sustainably. But sustainable shopping is still ... shopping. Its an

oxymoronic act that makes us feel good about the things we buy. True

sustainability requires reducing our consumption (and, likely, the country

s economic growth), not through buying greener products.





In an exploitative consumer market, the answer is not buying more. Its

buying less, argues fashion journalist and activist Aja Barber. We can

t buy our way to an ethical world.



Still, most consumers are swayed by the hope of voting with ones wallet.

 Shopping and boycotting became a means to perform politics in the Trump

era and beyond. But consumer activism, or conscious consumerism, does little

to impact legislation or corporate policy. The fossil fuel industries, to

that end, have weaponized the fallacy of personal responsibility to

avoid talking about corporate carbon emissions. (An infuriating, oft-

repeated statistic from the Carbon Majors Database is that 100 major fossil

fuel companies have produced 71 percent of total carbon emissions since 1988

.)



ITS NOT ABOUT RENUNCIATION, BUT CHOICE

As born consumers, were faced with a tricky, paralyzing conundrum: Any

collective effort will be futile against the scale of climate change, so why

should regular people be tasked with modifying their behaviors when the

system that runs global commerce is so ubiquitous?



According to one sustainability researcher, intent matters. Making the

active choice to think twice before we buy could improve both our happiness

and quality of life. It could help shape social norms and influence others

toward more-sustainable choices.



Daniel Fischer, an assistant professor at the School of Sustainability at

Arizona State University, wants to reframe the conversation around

sustainable living. People, he told me, often assume theyre adopting a

lower quality of life by owning and buying less. We need to flip this

narrative around and emphasize how sustainability allows you to have a

better quality of life, Fischer said. Its not about renunciation, but

choice.



His sustainability philosophy centers human needs, or how people can meet

their needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet

theirs. In a consumer society, Fischer explained, our base impulse is to

desire material goods that satisfy our needs. People have fundamental needs

 food, shelter, safety  and more advanced, self-actualized wants. Most

people arent fully aware of how to discern these motivations, Fischer

added. They buy simply because they feel like it, without thinking

deeply about the lasting purpose of the purchase. Americans, on average, buy

more than one item of clothing each week.





Fischer believes people can be trained to break out of this cycle of

consumption. They can choose to replace certain shopping satisfiers with

more sustainable options: buying vintage and used goods instead of new;

seeking out hearty, plant-based meat substitutes; purchasing an experiential

gift for their loved ones instead of something material. Fischer calls this

process social innovation.



Our basic needs have always been the same and will always be the same,

he said. The idea that we have to own every single thing in our household

is a recent phenomenon, historically speaking. With social innovation,

people can improve their level of satisfaction by still meeting their basic

needs while [also] reducing environmental harms.





Fischers work examines how practices such as mindfulness and intention-

setting can help a person reflect on their needs. It allows them to consider

whether a purchase will bring long-term satisfaction  or, as Marie Kondo

puts it, spark joy in their lives.



For some shoppers, the pandemic was an opportunity to reassess their

consumption habits and relationship to material goods. Many buy nothing

groups proliferated in quarantine as people sought to trade or give away

things they no longer needed. Reddit communities like r/frugal, r/

anticonsumption, and r/nobuy, where thousands of members discussed ways to

reduce unnecessary spending while stuck at home and shared tips on how to

shop intentionally, similarly thrived.



Steph, a 30-year-old corporate lawyer in New York, has gone an entire year

without buying a new item of clothing. Its a commitment that may seem

antithetical to fashion, but Steph cares about clothes and appearing stylish

 she has an entire Instagram account dedicated to slow fashion and

styling. Her intent isnt to be anti-fashion; she just thinks its

possible to make do with less.





During the pandemic, I started a challenge called Project 33, where I

could only wear the same 33 items of clothing for the next three months,

Steph told me. That made me curious about how I could maximize the number

of wears I get out of the clothes I already own. Eventually, I committed to

not buying anything for an entire year.



She said she felt freed by the challenge, not restricted: I have more

space in my mind to think about other parts of my life, she said, rather

than just the things I want.



Social norms are shifting, and some people are starting to push back against

thoughtless, unlimited consumption. Consumers are not only aware of the

forces that influence them to buy things but are also, like Steph, actively

working to combat them. I like to believe that everything we do, no matter

how small it is, has some sort of impact, Steph said. You can demand

corporate responsibility while making better individual choices. I dont

think theyre mutually exclusive.



Individual choice has had an outsized role in climate change discussions,

even when its clear that federal regulation is the best and most direct

way to curb global carbon emissions. The personal responsibility debate

has trapped American consumers in a cycle of cynicism. Its easy to shrug

our shoulders and continue to order from Amazon while we mutter under our

breath that there is no ethical consumption under capitalism.



As citizens of the wealthiest country in the world, Americans personal

choices do carry some weight. The problem is, its hard to quantify the

environmental impact of individual actions and lifestyles. Plus, structural

systems and social norms make it nearly impossible for people to break

shopping habits. About 70 percent of the US economy, after all, stems from

consumer spending.



Research has found that a persons carbon footprint is closely tied to how

much wealth they have, even if theyre a supposedly green consumer.

Wealthy people travel more, buy more stuff, and live in larger, energy-

intensive homes. Most middle class Americans, according to a 2020 report

from Oxfam and the Stockholm Environment Institute, fall in the global top

1 or 10 percent of individuals responsible for blowing through the worlds

carbon budget. (For context, anyone earning over $109,000 is categorized in

the richest 1 percent of the world, and over $38,000 as within the top 10

percent.) These choices add up over a persons lifetime, and our tendency

to overconsume carries lasting consequences.



On a recent podcast, New York Times opinion writer (and Vox co-founder) Ezra

Klein encouraged listeners not to think of their consumption decisions as

individual or as only affecting themselves. Rather, they serve as mechanisms

for social, political, and moral contagion. Its a mindset that

Fischer, the ASU professor and sustainability expert, also champions.



For instance, while Klein admitted his decision to not eat meat is 

meaningless in the context of the global animal trade, it did carry some

influence in other peoples choice to go vegetarian or vegan:



Its in that way that individual attitudes ladder up to social attitudes,

and then to social and political change. ... So taking seriously the ideas

and morals and views of individuals, thats not a different sphere than

what ends up happening in politics. And its not just individual. All of

the stuff catches.  I think that a lot of the value of the choices we make

is in our willingness to try to use those to change the choices other

people see as normal for them to make.



Reducing ones carbon footprint requires more frugal sacrifices than buying

less stuff (such as flying less, eating less meat, using more public

transportation), but its a good place to start. This holiday season offers

a bizarre, supply-chain-induced opportunity to change our shopping habits,

to give more thoughtfully, to buy more locally and less overall. Most

households are hard-wired to splurge on end-of-year gifts, and its

unlikely people will ever stop even if the crisis worsens. The supply chain

issues can, though, lead us to buy more conscientiously.



The mission to buy less with more intention is achievable for everyone,

especially affluent shoppers. Its incumbent on Americans, the wealthiest

people in the world, to cut back on and be critical of their consumption.

Plus, if you havent ordered that Xbox Series X for the lucky gamer in your

life, you might already be out of luck.

--

 :WWW  mitbbs.com [FROM: 2601:2c2:a00:29]

zhaojing36   board=USANews&u=zhaojing36 [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [ 2 ] : zhaojing36 (), : USANews

 : Its time for Americans to buy

: BBS  (Mon Oct 25 09:53:22 2021, )



less





--

 :  mitbbs.com [FROM: 173.]

newsguy   board=USANews&u=newsguy [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [] [ 3 ] : newsguy (newsguy), : USANews

 : Re: Its time for Americans to buy less stuff

: BBS  (Mon Oct 25 12:16:49 2021, )



buy less save more







  daemonself () : 

: ate less, now  shit less

:

: https://www.vox.com/the-goods/22725031/buying-less-supply-chain-holiday-

: shopping

:

: Thanks to the supply chain crisis, holiday shopping wont be easy this

year

:  even if you buy early.

:

: By Terry Nguyen Oct 21, 2021, 8:30am EDT

:

:

: In September, I started getting pesky emails from brands hinting that I

: should get a head start on my holiday shopping. Next came the headlines,

and

: then the reminders from social media users dishing out the same advice.

: Holiday shopping starts a little earlier every year, but this isnt just

: the typical push. People are encouraged to order their gifts as soon as

: possible or risk having packages arrive late, due to rampant supply chain

: disruptions and mailing delays. Even books (yes, books!) arent safe from

: the impending shortages.

:

: The holiday shopping industrial complex feels especially unavoidable in

2021

: , with Halloween still more than a week away. Amazon, Macys, Target, and

: Walmart have launched early-bird sales, and retailers are preparing to

dish

: out millions of dollars on ads for strong fourth-quarter sales.

:

:

: The pandemic briefly curbed consumer spending, but not for very long: As

the

: country opened back up, Americans felt the urge to get out and shop, an

: impulse that retailers and marketers happily indulged. The early fall

: holiday shopping schedule is billed to benefit customers by reducing their

: annual holiday stress, which will likely be compounded by supply chain

: delays. But when the early bird catches the worm (and the sales), the

: retailers rake in all the profits.

:

: Early holiday shopping sprees are good news for retail corporations,

: logistics companies, and the US economy, but bad, ultimately, for millions

: of workers (manufacturing, retail, logistics, warehouse) and the planet.

: Instead of opting to order our Christmas presents early, perhaps now is

the

: time to reconsider Americas great shopping addiction.

:

:

: When the stuff we want is so hard to get ahold of, why go to such great

: lengths to buy it? Consumers have the option to not order items

manufactured

: overseas, to source things locally from small businesses or artisans. We

: also have a choice that eliminates the potential for shipping or supply

: chain mishaps: We can just buy less.

:

:

: We know that our collective consumption of consumer goods, from the

creation

: of plastic toys to the fossil fuels that ship them to our homes, isnt

: good for the environment. Yes, on a consumer level, our ability to control

: resource consumption is minimal, but that doesnt mean theres no good

in

: a holiday season where gift exchanges dont require an Amazon Prime

account

: or transit via multiple shipping containers. Mindfulness has its own

: benefits, especially for affluent consumers, which includes Americas

upper

: -middle class. The higher-income consumers among us use far more resources

: than the less well-off and are responsible for influencing shopping norms

at

: large.

:

: Americans are now more aware than ever of the global supply chain and its

: vulnerability to unexpected snarls (like the Suez Canal blockage), raw-

: material shortages, and shipping delays. Experts predict that these

problems

: , set off by the pandemic, wont let up until 2022 or 2023. To help

reduce

: supply chain backlogs, the Biden administration has ordered major ports

and

: shipping companies, including Walmart, UPS, and FedEx, to increase their

: working hours. These domestic efforts, while heartening for consumers, are

: unlikely to assuage existing supply and demand issues across the world.

:

: Meanwhile, the growing severity of climate disasters threatens to impact

how

: we produce, source, and ship these goods, raw materials, and the food we

: eat. Product shortages and delays, it seems, are the new normal. At the

end

: of this logistic maze is the shopper, whose buying tendencies are

cultivated

: and incentivized from a young age. The entire consumer enterprise could

be

: summed up in one Ariana Grande lyric: I see it, I like it, I want it, I

: got it.

:

: If these supply chain problems are expected to persist, however, we must

be

: prepared to curb our shopping habits. Conscious or decreased consumption

: might not move the needle much on climate change or improve the

exploitative

: working conditions faced by those who produce and ship our goods, but

that

: doesnt mean we have to be trapped in a cycle of thoughtless buying. The

: alternative isnt a moral neutral. Must we continue to drown in our

: unlimited and unfettered need for more stuff, or could we start buying

less?

:

: In his book The Uninhabitable Earth, journalist David Wallace-Wells wrote

: that there is something of a moral crime in how much you and I and

: everyone we know consume, given how little is available to consume for so

: many other people on the planet.

:

: Shopping, by this logic, is a sin, one that Americans cant live without.

: Well-intentioned consumers have tried to do the next-best thing: Shop

: sustainably. But sustainable shopping is still ... shopping. Its an

: oxymoronic act that makes us feel good about the things we buy. True

: sustainability requires reducing our consumption (and, likely, the country

: s economic growth), not through buying greener products.

:

:

: In an exploitative consumer market, the answer is not buying more. Its

: buying less, argues fashion journalist and activist Aja Barber. We can

: t buy our way to an ethical world.

:

: Still, most consumers are swayed by the hope of voting with ones

wallet.

:  Shopping and boycotting became a means to perform politics in the Trump

: era and beyond. But consumer activism, or conscious consumerism, does

little

: to impact legislation or corporate policy. The fossil fuel industries, to

: that end, have weaponized the fallacy of personal responsibility to

: avoid talking about corporate carbon emissions. (An infuriating, oft-

: repeated statistic from the Carbon Majors Database is that 100 major

fossil

: fuel companies have produced 71 percent of total carbon emissions since

1988

: .)

:

: ITS NOT ABOUT RENUNCIATION, BUT CHOICE

: As born consumers, were faced with a tricky, paralyzing conundrum: Any

: collective effort will be futile against the scale of climate change, so

why

: should regular people be tasked with modifying their behaviors when the

: system that runs global commerce is so ubiquitous?

:

: According to one sustainability researcher, intent matters. Making the

: active choice to think twice before we buy could improve both our

happiness

: and quality of life. It could help shape social norms and influence others

: toward more-sustainable choices.

:

: Daniel Fischer, an assistant professor at the School of Sustainability at

: Arizona State University, wants to reframe the conversation around

: sustainable living. People, he told me, often assume theyre adopting a

: lower quality of life by owning and buying less. We need to flip this

: narrative around and emphasize how sustainability allows you to have a

: better quality of life, Fischer said. Its not about renunciation,

but

: choice.

:

: His sustainability philosophy centers human needs, or how people can meet

: their needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet

: theirs. In a consumer society, Fischer explained, our base impulse is to

: desire material goods that satisfy our needs. People have fundamental

needs

:  food, shelter, safety  and more advanced, self-actualized wants. Most

: people arent fully aware of how to discern these motivations, Fischer

: added. They buy simply because they feel like it, without thinking

: deeply about the lasting purpose of the purchase. Americans, on average,

buy

: more than one item of clothing each week.

:

:

: Fischer believes people can be trained to break out of this cycle of

: consumption. They can choose to replace certain shopping satisfiers

with

: more sustainable options: buying vintage and used goods instead of new;

: seeking out hearty, plant-based meat substitutes; purchasing an

experiential

: gift for their loved ones instead of something material. Fischer calls

this

: process social innovation.

:

: Our basic needs have always been the same and will always be the same,

: he said. The idea that we have to own every single thing in our

household

: is a recent phenomenon, historically speaking. With social innovation,

: people can improve their level of satisfaction by still meeting their

basic

: needs while [also] reducing environmental harms.

:

:

: Fischers work examines how practices such as mindfulness and intention-

: setting can help a person reflect on their needs. It allows them to

consider

: whether a purchase will bring long-term satisfaction  or, as Marie

Kondo

: puts it, spark joy in their lives.

:

: For some shoppers, the pandemic was an opportunity to reassess their

: consumption habits and relationship to material goods. Many buy nothing



: groups proliferated in quarantine as people sought to trade or give away

: things they no longer needed. Reddit communities like r/frugal, r/

: anticonsumption, and r/nobuy, where thousands of members discussed ways to

: reduce unnecessary spending while stuck at home and shared tips on how to

: shop intentionally, similarly thrived.

:

: Steph, a 30-year-old corporate lawyer in New York, has gone an entire year

: without buying a new item of clothing. Its a commitment that may seem

: antithetical to fashion, but Steph cares about clothes and appearing

stylish

:  she has an entire Instagram account dedicated to slow fashion and

: styling. Her intent isnt to be anti-fashion; she just thinks its

: possible to make do with less.

:

:

: During the pandemic, I started a challenge called Project 33, where I

: could only wear the same 33 items of clothing for the next three months,

: Steph told me. That made me curious about how I could maximize the

number

: of wears I get out of the clothes I already own. Eventually, I committed

to

: not buying anything for an entire year.

:

: She said she felt freed by the challenge, not restricted: I have more

: space in my mind to think about other parts of my life, she said, 

rather

: than just the things I want.

:

: Social norms are shifting, and some people are starting to push back

against

: thoughtless, unlimited consumption. Consumers are not only aware of the

: forces that influence them to buy things but are also, like Steph,

actively

: working to combat them. I like to believe that everything we do, no

matter

: how small it is, has some sort of impact, Steph said. You can demand

: corporate responsibility while making better individual choices. I dont

: think theyre mutually exclusive.

:

: Individual choice has had an outsized role in climate change discussions,

: even when its clear that federal regulation is the best and most direct

: way to curb global carbon emissions. The personal responsibility

debate

: has trapped American consumers in a cycle of cynicism. Its easy to shrug

: our shoulders and continue to order from Amazon while we mutter under our

: breath that there is no ethical consumption under capitalism.

:

: As citizens of the wealthiest country in the world, Americans personal

: choices do carry some weight. The problem is, its hard to quantify the

: environmental impact of individual actions and lifestyles. Plus,

structural

: systems and social norms make it nearly impossible for people to break

: shopping habits. About 70 percent of the US economy, after all, stems from

: consumer spending.

:

: Research has found that a persons carbon footprint is closely tied to

how

: much wealth they have, even if theyre a supposedly green consumer.

: Wealthy people travel more, buy more stuff, and live in larger, energy-

: intensive homes. Most middle class Americans, according to a 2020

report

: from Oxfam and the Stockholm Environment Institute, fall in the global

top

: 1 or 10 percent of individuals responsible for blowing through the world

s

: carbon budget. (For context, anyone earning over $109,000 is categorized

in

: the richest 1 percent of the world, and over $38,000 as within the top 10

: percent.) These choices add up over a persons lifetime, and our tendency

: to overconsume carries lasting consequences.

:

: On a recent podcast, New York Times opinion writer (and Vox co-founder)

Ezra

: Klein encouraged listeners not to think of their consumption decisions as

: individual or as only affecting themselves. Rather, they serve as

mechanisms

: for social, political, and moral contagion. Its a mindset that

: Fischer, the ASU professor and sustainability expert, also champions.

:

: For instance, while Klein admitted his decision to not eat meat is 

: meaningless in the context of the global animal trade, it did carry some

: influence in other peoples choice to go vegetarian or vegan:

:

: Its in that way that individual attitudes ladder up to social attitudes,

: and then to social and political change. ... So taking seriously the ideas

: and morals and views of individuals, thats not a different sphere than

: what ends up happening in politics. And its not just individual. All of

: the stuff catches.  I think that a lot of the value of the choices we

make

: is in our willingness to try to use those to change the choices other

: people see as normal for them to make.

:

: Reducing ones carbon footprint requires more frugal sacrifices than

buying

: less stuff (such as flying less, eating less meat, using more public

: transportation), but its a good place to start. This holiday season

offers

: a bizarre, supply-chain-induced opportunity to change our shopping habits

,

: to give more thoughtfully, to buy more locally and less overall. Most

: households are hard-wired to splurge on end-of-year gifts, and its

: unlikely people will ever stop even if the crisis worsens. The supply

chain

: issues can, though, lead us to buy more conscientiously.

:

: The mission to buy less with more intention is achievable for everyone,

: especially affluent shoppers. Its incumbent on Americans, the wealthiest

: people in the world, to cut back on and be critical of their consumption.

: Plus, if you havent ordered that Xbox Series X for the lucky gamer in

your

: life, you might already be out of luck.

--

  Android  20.11.08

--

 :WWW  mitbbs.com [FROM: 73.]

[:1 ]  0  [] [ ] []    








Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 03:46:17|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

People participate in a workshop on Chinese traditional medicine in Cape Town, South Africa, Oct. 25, 2021. A four-day workshop aimed at bridging communication between sectors of the African and Chinese traditional medicine for their innovation kicked off Monday in Cape Town, the legislative capital of South Africa. (Xinhua/Lyu Tianran)

CAPE TOWN, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A four-day workshop aimed at bridging communication between sectors of the African and Chinese traditional medicine for their innovation kicked off Monday in Cape Town, the legislative capital of South Africa.

The workshop, jointly hosted by the Chinese Embassy in South Africa, the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of China and the University of the Western Cape, covered various topics including systematization and innovation, practice and training, traditional herb usage and regulating, research for poverty reduction and COVID-19 pandemic.

South Africa and China have a long-term cooperation in traditional medicine, and the two countries enjoy collaboration in this sector through research between universities of the two countries, said Aunkh Chabalala, director of indigenous knowledge-based technology innovation at South Africa's Department of Science and Innovation, at the opening session.

"We will be learning a lot from Chinese (experts), we will be also looking into what things that we can learn in order to achieve our roadmap (for including traditional medicine in the national healthcare system)," Bruce Mbedzi, director for traditional medicine in South Africa's Department of Health, said at the opening.

Provincial coordinators of South African traditional medicine will be developing an idea of how they are going to implement South Africa's roadmap, and the country's traditional health practitioners will observe and learn from Chinese experience to improve their practices, he said, adding that the event will also share experience on commercializing and industrializing tractional medicine.

This event will not only increase South African practitioners' understanding of traditional Chinese medicine, but also promote cooperation in the field of tradition medicine between China and South Africa in the future, according to the Minister-Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in South Africa Shen Long.

By the establishment of an integrative system combining both traditional Chinese medicine and western medicine, China has achieved good clinical efficacy in the prevention and control of the pandemic. The advantages of traditional Chinese medicine in the treatment of COVID-19 include effective relief of symptoms, improvement of cure rate, reducing death rates, and promoting rehabilitation, he said.

Zhu Haidong, Deputy Director General of International Cooperation Department at National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of China, said he hopes the workshop will enhance understanding of African traditional medicine and traditional Chinese medicine with a view of contributing to people's health in South Africa.

South African participants will also observe medical diagnoses and treatments of traditional Chinese medicine.

The workshop will be followed by a South African and Chinese traditional medicine forum, held by the Department of Science and Innovation of South Africa and the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of China. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 04:04:18|Editor: huaxia

Video Player Close

A man pushes a stroller on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Oct. 25, 2021. Advisers to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are set for a key meeting Tuesday on whether to recommend the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11, as experts predicted younger children will be eligible for the vaccine in early November. (Photo by Ting Shen/Xinhua)

WASHINGTON, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Advisors to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are set for a key meeting Tuesday on whether to recommend the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11, as experts predicted younger kids will be eligible for the vaccine in early November.

The FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee is scheduled to meet on Tuesday to discuss whether to approve the vaccine. If authorized, it would be the first COVID-19 vaccine for younger children.

Anthony Fauci, the nation's top infectious disease expert, said some 28 million children ages 5 to 11 in the United States may be able to receive their COVID-19 vaccine in the first two weeks of November.

"You never want to get ahead of the FDA in their regulatory decisions, nor do you want to get ahead of the CDC and their advisers on what the recommended would be," Fauci said in an interview with ABC News.

"But if you look at the data that's been made public and announced by the company, the data looked good as to the efficacy and the safety," he said.

Pfizer and its partner BioNTech said their COVID-19 vaccine is safe and 90.7 percent effective against symptomatic COVID-19 in children ages 5 to 11, according to a document posted on the FDA website ahead of the meeting.

Pfizer and BioNTech are applying FDA emergency use authorization (EUA) of a two-dose regimen of 10-microgram dose for children ages 5 to 11, which would be administered three weeks apart.

The most common side effects occurred after the second dose and included pain at the injection site, fatigue and headache.

There were no serious adverse events associated with the vaccine, according to the FDA.

Moderna also announced Monday that a study in children ages 6 to 11 found two doses of its COVID-19 vaccine given 28 days apart produced a strong antibody response.

The Phase 2/3 study, called the KidCOVE study, gave over 4,700 participants two 50 microgram doses of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine mRNA-1273, half the dose authorized for adults.

The interim analysis showed a "robust neutralizing antibody response" after two doses given 28 days apart, according to Moderna.

The most common side effects were fatigue, headache, fever and pain at the site of injection. Moderna said the analysis showed a "favorable safety profile."

Nearly 6.3 million children have tested positive for COVID-19 since the onset of the pandemic, according to latest data updated by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) on Monday.

Almost 118,000 child COVID-19 cases were added over the past week. Over 1 million child cases were added over the past six weeks, according to the AAP.

Although weekly cases decreased from the peak of nearly 252,000 child cases on the week of Sept. 2, a total of 118,000 cases remains an "extremely high number" of newly diagnosed children, said the AAP.

Health experts stressed to get children eligible for COVID-19 vaccine as soon as possible is key to curb the increase in child cases, and prevent the virus from spreading to other vulnerable groups. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 11:31:37|Editor: huaxia

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Workers are seen at the construction site of Nanningbei Railway Station in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 25, 2021. Construction is in full swing at the railway station as part of the Guiyang-Nanning high-speed railway project. With a length of 482 km, the railway line will cut travel time from Nanning to Guiyang from over 10 hours to 2 and a half hours. (Xinhua/Lu Boan)
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 13:53:33|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday urged China and Pakistan to build a closer China-Pakistan community with a shared future in the new era.

In his phone conversation with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, Xi also called on the two sides to stand together even more firmly and push forward the all-weather strategic cooperative partnership between the two sides under the new circumstances. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 19:39:20|Editor: huaxia

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Military aircraft fly in echelons ahead of a grand gathering celebrating the Communist Party of China (CPC) centenary in Beijing, capital of China, July 1, 2021. (Xinhua/Han Mingkun)

BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged efforts to break new ground in the development of the country's military weaponry and equipment, and contribute to the realization of the goals set for the centenary of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), made the remarks at a military-wide conference on weaponry and equipment-related work, which was held on Monday and Tuesday.

Xi extended sincere greetings to the participants of the conference and those working on the relevant front.

Hailing the historic achievements in weaponry and equipment development over the past five years, Xi said such progress has served as the material and technological underpinning for the country's strategic capabilities, military strength in particular.

He called for efforts to accelerate the implementation of tasks for the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025) and advance the building of a modernized management system for weaponry and equipment.

CMC Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia also attended the conference. Speaking at the event, he stressed efforts to create strong synergy in weaponry and equipment development, focus on the needs of national security, boost sci-tech self-reliance and self-improvement, aim for the world's top class, and speed up the modernization of weaponry and equipment. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 20:20:57|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has called on the People's Publishing House to sustain revolutionary legacy and make greater contributions to developing a great socialist culture in China.

Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in a congratulatory letter on the 100th anniversary of the founding of the publishing house. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 20:26:07|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, on Tuesday called on the country's scientific and technological workers to continue striving to build China's strength in science and technology.

Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks when visiting an exhibition of China's achievements in scientific and technological innovation during the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020) in Beijing. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 22:12:27|Editor: huaxia

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The China-Europe cagro train arrives at Paris, France, June 23, 2020. (Xinhua/Xu Yongchun)

BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday held a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Xi stressed that China and France, on condition of effective epidemic prevention and control, should advance relevant cooperation, consolidate cooperation in such traditional areas as civil nuclear energy, aviation and aerospace, and expand cooperation in such new fields as artificial intelligence, biopharmacy and ocean affairs.

Visitors taste wine from France at the Food and Agricultural Products exhibition area during the third China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, east China, Nov. 7, 2020. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan)

China, he said, is ready to work with France to continue cooperation on biodiversity conservation, deepen green cooperation, implement the Global Development Initiative, and carry out tripartite cooperation in Africa and other regions.

China and France also need to support each other in hosting the Beijing Winter Olympics and the Paris Olympics, he added. 
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 22:49:30|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday held a phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Xi stressed that China and France, on condition of effective epidemic prevention and control, should advance relevant cooperation, consolidate cooperation in such traditional areas as civil nuclear energy, aviation and aerospace, and expand cooperation in such new fields as artificial intelligence, biopharmacy and ocean affairs.

China, he said, is ready to work with France to continue cooperation on biodiversity conservation, deepen green cooperation, implement the Global Development Initiative, and carry out tripartite cooperation in Africa and other regions.

China and France also need to support each other in hosting the Beijing Winter Olympics and the Paris Olympics, he added.

Xi pointed out that China attaches great importance to developing relations with France.

He added that since last year, he and Macron have maintained contact in various ways, and the important consensuses they reached on bilateral relations are being effectively implemented with important progress already made.

Noting that the international situation is changing rapidly, he said he and Macron maintaining timely communication and coordination on major issues will help maintain the direction of the China-France relationship and inject more stability into the world.

Meanwhile, Xi stressed that the multiple major international events of late have once again demonstrated that France is correct in advocating the strategic autonomy of the European Union (EU).

China and the EU, he said, need to continue high-level communication and dialogue, enhance mutual understanding and trust, and reduce misunderstandings and misjudgments.

The two sides also should properly manage differences, and strengthen political guidance for China-EU ties, so as to ensure steady and sustained development of bilateral relations, he added.

He suggested that the two sides focus on the needs of their enterprises and people, further tap their cooperation potential in such areas as connectivity, digital technology, environmental protection, scientific and technological innovation and health care, and expand the scope of China-EU cooperation.

China, he added, hopes that France will play a positive role in promoting the healthy and stable development of China-EU relations.

For his part, Macron congratulated China on successfully hosting the leaders' summit of the 15th meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in Kunming.

France, he said, is firmly committed to promoting the development of EU-China relations in a constructive manner, and dedicated to properly managing and resolving differences as well as deepening EU-China cooperation in such areas as economy, trade, climate change and biodiversity conservation by strengthening dialogue at all levels.

France hopes to strengthen coordination with China on the Group of 20 Leaders' Summit in Italy and the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties in Glasgow, he added.

He said his country is ready to work with China to push for more results in bilateral practical cooperation in relevant areas and hopes that the EU-China investment agreement will come into force at an early date.

France supports China in successfully hosting the Beijing Winter Olympics, Macron said, adding that he looks forward to maintaining close communication with Xi on France-China and EU-China relations as well as important issues of common concern. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 23:22:49|Editor: huaxia

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Chinese President Xi Jinping, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, visits an exhibition of China's achievements in scientific and technological innovation during the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020) in Beijing, capital of China, Oct. 26, 2021. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Tuesday called on the country's scientific and technological workers to continue striving to build China's strength in science and technology.

Xi, also Chinese president and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks when visiting an exhibition of China's achievements in scientific and technological innovation during the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020) in Beijing.

Xi noted that China had made significant scientific and technological advances during the period. As China embarks on a new journey to build a modern socialist country in all respects, scientific and technological innovation will play a vital role in promoting the country's overall development, he said.

Xi called on the scientific and technological workers to develop confidence, seize opportunities, and scale new scientific and technological heights, so as to help accelerate the development of science and technology toward greater self-reliance and self-strengthening.

Xi encouraged them to make greater contributions so that China will be a leading country in science and technology.

The exhibition features more than 1,500 pieces of equipment and models. Among them are the Chang'e-5 lunar probe, the Mars rover, the quantum computer prototype Jiuzhang, and the deep-sea manned submersible Fendouzhe.

Li Keqiang, Li Zhanshu, Wang Yang, Wang Huning, Zhao Leji, and Han Zheng, who are members of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, and Vice President Wang Qishan also visited the exhibition. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 12:52:48|Editor: huaxia

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KHARTOUM, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Sudan's Information Ministry said on Monday that the civilian government, led by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, is still the legal transitional authority in the country and denied the dissolution of the cabinet.

The constitutional document grants the right of declaring the state of emergency in the country only to the prime minister, and does not give the right of dissolving the transitional institutions to any party other than the legislative council, the ministry said in a statement.

The ministry demanded that the leaders of the Sudanese army release the prime minister and other arrested officials.

Earlier in the day, Commander General of the Sudanese Armed Forces and Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan announced a state of emergency, dissolution of the sovereign council and the cabinet and dismissal of the state governors.

Al-Burhan made the announcement in a speech broadcast by the official Sudan TV, saying the differences among the partners of the transitional period in Sudan pushed the armed forces to intervene to prevent the country from sliding to chaos.

Al-Burhan further voiced commitment to the constitutional document with suspension of some of its items relating to the coalition with the Forces of Freedom and Change Alliance (the civilian component in the ruling coalition).

Meanwhile, since early Monday, the capital Khartoum has witnessed a campaign of arrests that included the Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and some of his ministers together with civilian members in the sovereign council.

To this end, the prime minister's office said in a statement that a security force took Hamdok and his wife to an unknown place.

The Forces of Freedom and Change Alliance, for its part, accused Al-Burhan of carrying out a military coup.

Demonstrators have taken to the street in Khartoum, rejecting the measures announced by Al-Burhan and demanding a civilian government.

Since an attempted coup on Sept. 21, the disputes between the military and civilian partners in the transitional government have continued to escalate.

Sudan is ruled amid a 39-month transitional period under a traditional government of military and civilian elements, established after the ouster of former President Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. The transitional period is set to be followed by elections to form a new government. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 13:43:41|Editor: huaxia

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JUBA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- In some parts of South Sudan, surface temperatures can reach 50 degree Celsius on a regular day. It is too hot for natives and foreigners alike.

The harsh climatic conditions are the backdrop of the stories of 700 soldiers and military officers of China's seventh batch of peacekeeping infantry battalion, who come from afar to promote peace and stability in the world's youngest republic.

"Reporting. A camouflage truck was found on Ye'i Road, some 300 meters away from my observation area. All the five people in the vehicle were in military uniform and carrying a heavy machine gun," blared a loudspeaker from the intercom.

The report in the middle of the night came from sentinel No. 2 behind the Ye'i Road. The road is the only one leading to the city of Juba from the outside, where more than 60 local armed vehicles and 80 weapons pass by every day.

Not far from that post is shelter No. 1, where the Chinese peacekeeping infantry battalion guarded the safety of over 5,000 civilians and all personnel in the UN camp round the clock.

Since the deployment of the first batch in 2015, enhanced security has averted several attacks targeting the vulnerable including children. Every weekend, battalion Commander Yang Zhongju visited the surrounding villages and shelters to check the security situation and became acquainted with the kids.

In February, when the peacekeeping infantry battalion carried out its first long-distance patrol, Yang was notified that two armed forces were exchanging fire 25 km away from the base.

After an emergency meeting with the base over the phone, the battalion decided to carry forward the task as planned. At night, the detachment of more than 90 officers and soldiers were standing by in the field tent with first-level combat alarm. They conducted free consultations and offered condolences to the local civilians the following day before returning to the camp.

"I thought you would leave, but I didn't expect you to help us under such pressure. I thank you on behalf of all the villagers," a local elder told Zhao Yanjun, the team leader.

When the mission was over and the convoy left, many children ran after it on bare feet, waving goodbye and shouting "China."

Since the seventh batch of China's peacekeeping infantry battalion to South Sudan (Juba) was deployed in December 2020, 49 officers and soldiers of the entire battalion were awarded the "Personal Commendation" by the commander of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), and 110 officers and soldiers were awarded "Personal Commendation" by the commander of Juba war zone, and the Infantry Battalion was awarded "Collective Commendation" respectively by UNMISS and the Juba war zone.

As China celebrates the 50th anniversary of the restoration of its lawful seat in the United Nations, Chinese peacekeeping troops will continue their core mission, with bravery and valor to bring peace and hope in South Sudan. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 18:18:17|Editor: huaxia

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WINDHOEK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Namibia plans to set up a sovereign wealth fund (SWF) before the end of the year to secure the country's future savings and transform the economy, Finance Minister Iipumbu Shiimi said Monday evening.

According to Shiimi, the country will invest in equities as well as overseas shares.

"The investment return that you can get on shares and equities are much higher than from other money market instruments," Shiimi said.

The SWF will have a short-term and a long-term fund.

"The objective for the (short-term) stabilization fund will be liquidity. The risks we take will be very low," Shiimi said, adding that the underlying assets will be interest bearing assets, treasuries, bonds and similar money market investments.

According to him, the intergenerational wealth fund will have a balanced mandate where 70 percent of the assets bought are risky assets such as equities while the rest are fixed income assets, real estate and private equity.

Shiimi said about 2.5 percent of the intergenerational fund will be invested in infrastructure projects with socio-economic benefits for future generations.

Shiimi said the fund will be set up with financing from savings, proceeds from the green renewable sector, mining royalties, fishing quotas, divestiture of state-owned enterprises as well as Southern African Customs Union receipts. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 20:50:44|Editor: huaxia

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Wilbert Twinomujuni, a teacher, removes briquettes from the compressor machine at a workshop in St. Kizito High School in Namugongo, Wakiso District, Uganda, Oct. 14, 2021. (Photo by Hajarah Nalwadda/Xinhua)

WAKISO, Uganda, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- For the past 18 months, schools in Uganda have remained closed as government strives to contain the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. The closure rendered many teachers in the East African country jobless.

As the country awaits the reopening of schools, a group of teachers in the central Ugandan district of Wakiso have come up with innovating ways of taking care of their families.

At St. Kizito High School, Namugongo, there is a beehive of activities as the teachers at the school have resorted to converting their theoretical skills into practice.

According to Ezekiel Kazibwe, who is the director of the school and project manager, the impact of COVID-19 forced him to find ways of making teachers survive since he had no money to continue paying their salaries.

"The teachers had families to feed and rent to pay. I could not sustain them since the pandemic forced us to close business. There was a need to deploy Plan B," Kazibwe told Xinhua.

He said the teachers started using the school compound to make various products which are then supplied to various stores around the district and beyond.

The switch from classroom to practical work was not a difficult task for the teachers since they used to train learners in various income generating activities.

"We for instance make briquettes out of rubbish. We don't need capital to get rubbish and in the end we promote clean cooking and environmental protection," Kazibwe said.

According to him, each teacher earns some 100 U.S. dollars every month from selling the various products.

"We also teach the youth around the area how to make products that they can sell and earn an income. Parents and other organized women groups come to seek skills from us too," Kazibwe said.

He urged other teachers in the country to use the COVID-19 lockdown time to learn new practical skills that they can use and become self-employed.

Sunday Ochaya, one of the teachers taking part in the making of briquettes, said the project came a blessing at the right time.

"I was able to get some money to put food on the table and pay rent," Ochaya said.

He added that even if he lost his teaching job for one reason or the other, the skills he had already acquired were enough to enable him start a new life.

"They should try their best to venture into projects. We need to look for alternative sources of income," Ochaya said to fellow teachers who remain jobless because of the COVID-19 lockdown.

Wilbert Twinomujuni, who was formerly an entrepreneurship teacher, said the project had helped him to survive for almost two years even as other teachers cried out to government for a bailout.

"I have not slept on an empty stomach and the landlord is not demanding rent arrears from me. If I fall sick, I can afford medical bills," Twinomujuni said.

"We are not saving, but the little we get from those projects is pushing us through," he added.

He called on other schools to equip their students with survival skills now that the world was changing.

"We should always teach them practical skills. By the time our students finish Form Four, they know how to make liquid soap, bake or make pavers. In the future they could decide to turn one of those into business," Twinomujuni advised.

The teachers at this school are proud that they are contributing to the fight against environmental degradation.

"You don't have to be a teacher to learn to make briquettes which can substitute charcoal and firewood. If we join hands, global warming will be history," Twinomujuni said. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 21:46:32|Editor: huaxia

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KAMPALA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Uganda on Tuesday said the recent bombing in the central part of the country was planted by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a rebel group holed up in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni in a statement issued by the State House said the bomb that went off on a bus traveling to western Uganda was planted by the ADF.

Museveni said security identified a person who died in the blast as the bomber. Museveni said the bomber identified as Muzafala, sometimes called Isaac Matovu, was part of a group of ADF terrorists that were being trailed by the Ugandan security agencies.

The president said it is not clear whether Muzafala blew up himself accidentally or deliberately in the Monday incident.

ADF is an armed group of Ugandan origin. It is reported to be based in the jungles of eastern DRC. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 22:08:50|Editor: huaxia

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MOGADISHU, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) said Tuesday it has introduced a new cycle of radio programs mainly focusing on the impact of climate change on food security in Somalia.

Etienne Peterschmitt, FAO Representative in Somalia said the programs which will focus on climate-smart agriculture, will be an extension of the radio training modules which the FAO launched in 2020 to adapt to COVID-19 constraints.

Peterschmitt said there is a need to highlight the impact of climate change on food production and educate stakeholders on the same.

"Since COVID-19 measures are still in place, FAO will make use of the ongoing radio training programs to carry out remote extension focusing on the impact of climate change," he said in a statement issued in Mogadishu.

Climate-smart agriculture is an approach that helps to guide actions needed to transform and reorient agricultural systems to effectively support the development and ensure food security in a changing climate.

The FAO said the new cycle of programs is launched at a time when the impacts of climate change are being felt globally, including in Somalia which has faced droughts, flood, and desert locust upsurge over the last two years.

This, the UN food agency said, has significantly reduced crop yield and lowered livestock productivity leading to major gaps in food consumption.

Francesco Diasio, International Communication for Development expert, coordinating the radio initiative said the distance radio learning modules are cost-effective and have already demonstrated an important impact, reaching between 700,000 to 900,000 persons on a weekly basis.

The FAO said the new climate-smart programs will be produced and broadcast by selected major radio stations across Somalia. A total of six episodes will be aired across the country on key topics like conservation agriculture, crop intensification, water management, and harvesting and post-harvesting management.

Ezana Kassa, head of the program at FAO Somalia said the radio programs will contribute to reducing rural communities' vulnerability to food insecurity through adaptation of Climate-Smart practices. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 12:48:28|Editor: huaxia

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by Burak Akinci

ANKARA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Turkey and a group of Western countries are trying to avert a diplomatic crisis after Western embassies in Ankara called for the release of an imprisoned businessman.

Embassies of ten countries -- the United States, Germany, France, Denmark, Finland, the Netherlands, Sweden, Canada, Norway and New Zealand -- announced on Monday that they will abide by Article 41 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which asks foreign envoys not to interfere in the internal affairs of their receiving states.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan welcomes the announcement of the embassies, according to the state-run Anadolu Agency, days after he said he wants the ambassadors of the countries banished from Turkey.

In a joint statement last week, ambassadors of the Western countries urged the release of Osman Kavala, a Turkish businessman and activist who was detained by the country's authorities in 2017.

"Parties have shown that they don't want an escalation in this affair. The message from embassies means that they will refrain from meddling in Turkey's internal affairs in the future," former Turkish ambassador Oguz Celikkol said on private broadcaster NTV.

Kavala, 64, was acquitted last year of charges linked to Turkey's nationwide anti-government protests in 2013, but the ruling was overturned and joined to charges relating to a 2016 coup attempt. The detention of Kavala has drawn criticism from the West.

"If Turkey had gone forward with these expulsions, this would cause a very serious escalation between Turkey and its mostly NATO allies, and also create a rift with the West in general," Selcuk Colakoglu, professor of international relations and director of Turkish Center for Asia-Pacific Studies, told Xinhua.

"If so, Turkey's relations with those ten countries will enter a period of uncertain future," Colakoglu added.

The ten countries are among Turkey's biggest trading partners and foreign investors. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 19:04:32|Editor: huaxia

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BRUSSELS, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- An online and offline exhibition called "Towards Win-Win Cooperation and Friendly Relations" kicked off in Brussels on Tuesday to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and China.

"The 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations is an important milestone in the history of China-Belgium relations," Chinese Ambassador to Belgium Cao Zhongming wrote in the foreword of the exhibition.

"At this new starting point, China and Belgium will surely sum up their historical experience, make unremitting efforts to promote the development of bilateral relations, and explore new ways and new areas of bilateral cooperation in the future," he wrote.

The exhibition, which is being held at the Chinese Cultural Center in Belgium's EU district, features 50 historical pictures and 50 heart-warming stories to reflect the deepening of relations between both countries, whether it is in the field of politics, economy and trade, culture, education, science or technology.

The exhibition is presented by the Chinese Embassy in Belgium, produced by the China Image Group of Xinhua News Agency and the Chinese Cultural Center in Brussels, and supported by the Sino-foreign Cultural Exchange Center.

While the Chinese Embassy in Belgium launched online exhibitions on Facebook, WeChat and other platforms, offline physical exhibitions opened at the Chinese Cultural Center in Brussels. This is the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic started that the Chinese Cultural Center has opened its doors to visitors. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 19:38:59|Editor: huaxia

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ISTANBUL, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Turkey has so far built a 1,005-km-long border wall along eastern and southern borderlines to curb illegal entries into its territories, the state-run Anadolu agency said on Tuesday.

The figure indicated that 34 percent of the country's borderlines with Iraq, Iran, and Syria were covered with the wall as of September, according to the news agency.

The border wall and fence constructions reportedly continue in the 238-km-long section on the Iranian border and the 33-km-long part of the Iraqi border.

Turkey, a key transit point for illegal immigrants seeking to reach Europe, hosts more than 4 million refugees, including 3.7 million Syrians and around half a million migrants of other nationalities, such as Iraqis and Iranians.

Additionally, the country has been witnessing an increased influx of Afghan refugees from its Iranian border after the Taliban took over Afghanistan. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan earlier said there are 300,000 undocumented Afghan migrants in the country. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-27 05:53:51|Editor: huaxia

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Advisors to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Tuesday voted in favor of authorizing the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11.

The decision came after a whole-day meeting of the FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee, which was held to discuss whether, based on the totality of scientific evidence available, the benefits of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine outweigh its risks for use in children 5 to 11 years of age.

The vaccine would be administered to younger kids as a 2-dose series, 3 weeks apart, according to the FDA.

While children are far less likely than adults to get severely ill or die from COVID-19, data presented to the FDA advisors on Tuesday suggest that they can be as likely to catch and spread the disease.

Results from the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine clinical trials show the vaccine is safe and 90.7 percent effective against symptomatic COVID-19 in children ages 5 to 11.

The most common side effects occurred after the second dose and included pain at the injection site, fatigue and headache.

There were no serious adverse events associated with the vaccine, according to the FDA.

The FDA will consider formal authorization of the vaccine based on its advisors' recommendation. If authorized, it would be the first COVID-19 vaccine for younger children.

Once the FDA makes its authorization, the vaccine advisory group of U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is set to meet on Nov. 2 to 3 on recommendations for the use of the vaccine for younger kids.

The Joe Biden administration said up to 15 million child-sized doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine could be shipped out to providers soon.

Health officials expected first doses could start as early as the first week of November, pending final sign-off from the FDA and the CDC.

The decision came as the country has added almost 118,000 child COVID-19 cases over the past week, according to the latest data of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP).

Nearly 6.3 million children have tested positive for COVID-19 in the United States since the onset of the pandemic. Over 1 million child cases were added over the past six weeks, according to the AAP.

Zhang Zuofeng, chair of the Department of Epidemiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, told Xinhua that to vaccinate younger children will help add immunity to broader population and curb the pandemic in the country.

"Getting younger kids vaccinated will not only better protect this group of population, but also prevent the virus from spreading to other vulnerable groups," Zhang said.

It will be another "significant step forward", he noted. Enditem
THE Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc) is investigating High Court Sherriff McDuff Madega for suspected criminal abuse of office and the illegal sale of more than 10 properties attached by the courts.

This comes after several people have claimed to have lost houses on account of Madegas actions.

According to reports, he is accused of working with a cartel of officials in his office, lawyers, auctioneers and officials at the Deeds Office to target people whose properties would have been attached by the courts. At least 10 cases that l involve improper sale of the seized properties have been reported to Zacc.

Some of the complainants are Mr John Amon Chinyanganya who is accusing Madega of selling his Harare house with a fake deed at an auction (under case number HCR 58/07/21), Green Energy Company for illegally authorising the sale of goods and motor vehicle by a public auction (HCR 25/08/2021, Abigail Mutize for unlawfully and corruptly selling their Mabelreign house and changing title deed before full payment (HCR 89/06/2020), Piwayi Chiutsi for fraudulently attaching his property and declaring a local company Baridie Investments as highest bidder but had never participated during the auction (HCR 31/07/ 2021) and Francis Masawi who is accusing Madega for abusing his power to sell his property (HCR 18/05/2020).

Others are Bryn Michael Baxter who is accusing him of conniving with a relative to fraudulently register an estate (HCR 116/09/21), Rufaro Shiri is accusing him of colluding with a company that is not registered (HCR 126/09/21), Tendai Matanga alleged that he won three civil suits which he handed over to Madega who failed to act (HCR 36/10/18), Gunike Makwira who is claiming that his properties were sold without following the procedures (HCR 18/05/21) and Hilton Tserayi who is accusing him of fraudulently auctioning his vehicle worth US$15 000 for US$100.

When contacted for comment, Zacc spokesperson Commissioner Mr John Makamure said he would only be able to provide the details of the developments once provided with the reference numbers of the cases.

However, in June this year, Mr Makamure once confirmed that the anti-graft body was indeed undertaking a probe into Mr Madegas conduct.

The matter is under investigation and we will make details available once we have completed the investigations, he was quoted saying. These developments also come after Bariadie Investments, is still trying to gain ownership of the Highlands property despite having lost in the High Court.

High Court Judge, Justice Tawanda Chitapi found that Mr Mashamhanda was the legal owner of the 4 377 square metre property worth over US$230 000 after buying it in 2019 through an auction.

It had been attached from Harare lawyer Mr Puwayi Chiutsi following a wrangle with his former client Mr Elliot Rodgers over US$70 000 trust money.

Justice Chitapi accepted that Mr Mashamhanda bought it through an estate agent and took all the necessary precautions to ensure the title was unencumbered and secure.

Bariadie has made applications through the High Court on several occasions, saying it bought the same property in a 2017 auction through the Sheriff of the High Court and asserts that the Sheriff of Zimbabwe once instructed lawyer Mr Tendai Biti to process the transfer of the property into Bariadie Investments name.

The company has also approached the Supreme Court over the same matter to appeal against the High Court judgment.

In one of the cases reported in June also under reference number RR 30/07/19, Mr Madega is accused of selling a Bluffhill house in Harare under CBZ mortgage without transferring the proceeds of the sale to the bank and other beneficiaries.

According to the owner Mr Nobert Njazi, the Sherriff sold the property after misrepresenting to the court that he had failed to locate the original title deed no 71S9/200S.

He did not advise CBZ Bank of the attachment and sale of my house. He did not check or examine bonds, caveats and encumbrances to the holding deed otherwise he would have noticed the interest of CBZ Bank.

Mr Njazi argued that by holding a mortgage bond over the property, CBZ Bank had the right and was supposed to be given first preference when the time to pay arrived.

In another case reported to Zacc by then, a complainant said Mr Madega facilitated the sale of his house within a day of processing the deeds, while summons had been sent to a wrong address.

A property was sold below the evaluation reports from private estate agents. In terms of the law after the sale of the property, the Sheriff is supposed to ask the owner of the property to file an objection to the sale within 15 days before the Sheriff can confirm the sale.

Instead the Sheriff sent the letter to the property owners farm in Shurugwi and yet all other letters were being sent to his lawyers. The owner of this property received this letter a day before the expiry of the window period to file his objection. He was unable to file on time resulting in the house being confirmed sold. The Sheriff then ordered the registrar of deeds to process the title deeds for the new buyer. The deeds were processed within a day. Newsday


DISGRUNTLED war veterans yesterday withdrew their affiliation to the ruling Zanu PF party after they were arrested, for the second time in as many months, for protesting against poor pension stipends.

Some 40 ex-combatants were detained at Harare Central Police Station after they gathered at the Africa Unity Square to protest over the $16 000 monthly allowance they are getting from government.

Others were detained at Rhodesville and Borrowdale police stations.

Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said he was yet to get a briefing on the charges being laid against the war veterans, who are being represented by Tinashe Chinopfukutwa, Paida Saurombe and Blessing Nyamaropa of the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights.

This is the second time the former freedom fighters have been arrested this year. In August, nine of them were arrested for protesting at Finance minister Mthuli Ncubes offices, demanding a review of their pension benefits.

They were, however, released at night without charge, allegedly following instructions from the top.

But Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA) chairman Christopher Mutsvangwa immediately accused a Zanu PF faction, G40, and the MDC Alliance of inciting war veterans to protest against government.

Yesterday, the protesting ex-combatants, who are members of the War Veterans Welfare Pressure Group (WVWPG) and drawn from across the countrys provinces, accused President Emmerson Mnangagwas government of neglecting them.

Police in riot gear stormed Africa Unity Square, where the war veterans were gathered and blocked them from submitting a petition to Mnangagwa for review of their pension earnings.

Some ex-combatants fled from the scene before arrests following a violent confrontation with the police.

WVWPG chairperson Amos Sigauke said the heroes of the armed liberation struggle were disappointed with Zanu PF as he announced the end of their political marriage with the ruling party.

We are not attending (the conference) because we are not Zanu PF, Sigauke said in reference to the ruling partys national conference taking place in Bindura.

We have nothing to do with Zanu PF. We are not involved in Zanu PF politics. We are not even a Zanu PF faction. Zanu PF has its own problems, which we are not concerned with.

If there is anyone among us who wants to attend the Zanu PF rally, they can go in their own capacity.

We are not concerned about their affairs. What we are concerned with is for government to consider our plight and review our monthly earnings. If government addresses our concerns, then you will not see us here.

Zanu PF acting spokesperson Mike Bimha said members of the ZNLWVA were part of the party conference underway in Bindura.

The war veterans that were allegedly protesting in town are just a few individuals with their own views detached from the position of the association which is affiliated to our party, he said.

The ZNLWVA is the latest wing which joined to form our party and we are working well with them. If there were issues with regards to the members affiliation to the party, the chairperson Comrade Mutsvangwa would have notified us.

So far, there are no complaints as far as membership of the war veterans in Zanu PF is concerned. War veterans are part of the proceedings of the conference underway.

Mutsvangwa yesterday refused to comment, referring questions to Defence minister Oppah Muchinguri, who was not picking calls.

ZNLWVA spokesperson Douglas Mahiya was also not reachable for comment.

Another war veteran, Obert Hazvinei Machingura from Mvurwi, however, said the former combatants were holding protests because of false promises made by Mnangagwas government.

We have seen other groups, including the ruling party itself, being permitted to conduct protests, but we are being blocked, Machingura said.

We have gone back to the (late former Rhodesia Prime Minister Ian) Smith regime. We are not allowed to speak. Why is it so hard for the authorities to allow us to submit our petition to the President?

We are wallowing in poverty, but we contributed immensely to the liberation of the country. Some of us lost limbs, relatives and homes to free the country, but what is the reward for that?Nothing.

Mildred Chimurenga, who came all the way from Kwekwe, said the arrests were an indication that there was limited freedom of expression in the country under Mnangagwa.

Government should be committed to improving our welfare the same way we dedicated our lives to the liberation of this country, she said. We have been reduced to beggars when we deprived ourselves of some freedoms and opportunities to enrich ourselves and chose to go to war. However, only a few are enjoying the benefits.

MDC Alliance leader Nelson Chamisa said war veterans deserved respect. One thing I will never do as president of Zimbabwe, I will never harass, terrorise, disrespect, victimise, disregard and forget our war veterans and liberation heroes, he said.

Their welfare is and shall be our top priority. All their grievances must be addressed. Stop harassing or arresting our liberation heroes.

The ex-combatants have been a key cog in Zanu PFs election campaigns since independence. Newsday
We have some possibility of looking at that in the future, but we dont have that data today, said Gruber, adding that the data likely wont be in until the end of the pandemic. The key goal right now is obviously providing protection with a safe and effective vaccine to get ahead of the pandemic.
United has said it is unlikely it will be able to recoup the funds, even if they win the lawsuit brought against them by its six workers, who have alleged the companys vaccine mandate is discriminatory. U.S. District Judge Mark Pittman last month ruled on the side of the employees, requiring the airline continue paying unvaccinated pilots if they request a medical or religious exemption.
The United States is known as "the land of the free," and many Americans are proud of the freedoms our country grants. But even though Americans are given the right to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," there are some small, surprising things that citizens can't do in the U.S. At both the national and state levels, there are certain laws that are petty or peculiar, especially compared to the rest of the world. Whether it's a food the government has deemed "dangerous" or a weird law on the books because of one wild person, here are 20 wacky things that are surprisingly illegal in the United States. (This story originally appeared on The Active Times.)

(Kaitlin Miller, The Active Times)
After his death, Garner was found to possess four sealed packs of cigarettes, and a fifth pack that was opened and contained 15 cigarettes. That quantity of cigarettes was far fewer than required by the felony statute DAmico cited in his report. Under state law, Garner could not have been guilty of more than a misdemeanor.
The former top executive of the state, whose career imploded in 2008 after he was linked to a prostitution scandal just a year into his first term as governor, was back in the spotlight in 2016 when Travis, 31, accused him of choking her at The Plaza hotel the day before Valentines Day.
The nine workers allegedly engaged in the schemes between 2015 and 2019. The city discovered them by simply looking for unusually high-billing therapists and then checking if they actually did the work they claimed to have done, according to a declaration filed in court by an FBI agent.
The 44-year-old Atlas, whose firehouse stands a stones throw from the spot where the twin towers once rose, was last seen alive heading up the stairwell in the North Tower before the buildings toppled. His name, along with those of his five lost colleagues, remains prominently displayed in the lower Manhattan house.
Anyone at this point in time, unless something changes, will be put into a leave-without-pay status, Shea said. What I would urge is for people not to wait to the last moment to see what happens with the lawsuit or anything else. Get the vaccine.
Samerson played a hunch that the robber would come out of the station on the west side of Union Square, so she headed that way. I went to the conductor, directed him to hold the train and we canvassed each train car, she said.
Midwood, which enrolls roughly 4,500 kids, does not have metal detectors. Officials from the union representing school safety agents said the school had seven agents and one supervisor on duty Monday, down from 13 agents and one supervisor in 2019.
There was no exit wound. My partner gave me his tourniquet and I applied it, Pardieu said. The last thing we need is for someone to die. Hes in the hospital right now. Hes going to be OK.
It is hard, even 45 years later, to know the fate of our beloved Wayne, Sanders wrote in a statement. He was killed at the hands of a vile and evil man. Our hearts are heavy, and our sympathies go out to the other victims families. We can now lay to rest what happened and move forward by honoring Wayne.
These arent just bad campuses or the worst campuses  these campuses fundamentally are unsafe for LGBTQ students, and, as a result, theyre fundamentally unsafe for all students to go to, Shane Windmeyer, founder and executive director of Campus Pride, told NBC News. They promote an environment of hostility, of discrimination, harassment, toward a group of people, and who wants  when youre trying to be educated  to have that type of negative learning environment?
My friend was trying to process it, said Gypin, 60. I just looked at her and said, Weve got to run. So we just ran, and kept running until we got to the outer perimeter of the parking lot.
On the present record, this Court cannot assay any strong reason to believe the jurors continue to need protection from any external threats to their safety at this point, four months after this Courts sentencing of Chauvin, or that there is a substantial likelihood that making the prospective and impaneled jurors names public information will interfere with the fair and impartial administration of justice, Cahill wrote.
We are 100% excited about saying anyone thats being mistreated, if the morale is low, if you cant take that environment  and we have openings here  you are going to get an environment where people are going to support you, DeSantis said.
And Schroeder allowed the defense team to use video of police officers supporting Rittenhouse and other armed men who arrived in Kenosha to protect property after the earlier protests in the city about 50 miles north of Chicago.
One former student, who did not wish to be named, told the outlet that they were penalized for reporting an assault with a $500 fine for underage drinking and required counseling. Others said they were discouraged from reporting incidents of rape altogether, while at least three students, including Elizabeth Axley, recalled being made to sign a so-called Victim Notice acknowledging possible violations of the ethics code after they sought to file complaints about sexual assaults.
In order to make the battery last longer, turn off everything you do not need, Alpine SAR said. Close all apps. Turn off WiFi and Bluetooth. Dont use your cell phone as a GPS/map device and especially do not use the compass if your phone has one  the compass feature in some phones is a serious battery drain. Pull out your map and compass and/or use a dedicated GPS unit. You may be instructed, by text, to turn your phone off and text back at a specific time. Also, keep your phone just a little warm with some body heat or a handwarmer.
Stanley Ford, 62, of Akron, was ordered to serve the sentences consecutively. According to the mans attorney, he plans to appeal the sentence. He was found guilty last month of 26 of the 29 counts against him, including aggravated murder and aggravated arson.
Hed been alone for months with two brothers, aged 7 and 10, and the brother whose remains were in a bedroom. Neighbors told KTRK that they have him packaged snacks, fruit and pizza. The house had no power, and one neighbor let the teen charge his phone.
These corporations that we call hospitals have chosen to make money out of health care, have chosen to make money out of allegedly saving lives, Cruz said at the time. And yes, theyre saving the lives, but I say allegedly because when you get a $200,000 bill that you have to pay, or when you have to choose between a world-renowned doctor at one hospital versus a decent doctor at another one, youre playing with your health care. Youre playing with your life.
Eric isnt waiting until hes elected the next mayor of New York to find the best candidate to run the NYPD. He launched a national search so that he and his transition team can begin interviewing just days after the November 2 election if he is elected mayor, Thies said. Eric tapped dozens of law enforcement, police reform and criminal justice experts and advocates to put together a battery of questions for each candidate to answer in order to qualify for a formal review.
Shaun Donovan, Ray McGuire, Dianne Morales  these were just smart people, Adams said with a laugh, referencing three hopefuls in the June primary, as he spoke with reporters in Sunset Park, Brooklyn. You had to be ready to answer very tough questions and roll out a policy and plan. There were no antics. We didnt see any showmanship.
In the first TV tilt between the two rivals, held last Wednesday, Sliwa sprayed Adams with attack lines, sometimes interrupting. At one point, Sliwa said the Democrat has spent the campaign with elites in the suites, the TikTok girls, trying to sort of live up to the Kardashians.
The victims were a man whose surname was Zhang, who was reportedly well-liked and acting as a nearby villages temporary Communist Party secretary, his wife, the couples daughter-in-law and two grandchildren, as well as a passerby and driver. Another child found at the scene of the familys murder was reportedly transported to the hospital.
Just a quick look at the current conditions on Rikers Island supports the conclusion that decarceration is the only immediate solution. The jail population has increased by nearly 50% since the beginning of the pandemic, despite COVID-19 still raging behind bars at an infection rate five times higher than the community average. This month, Victor Mercado, age 64 and in a wheelchair, died from COVID-19 just an hour after he was finally granted release following months of incarceration.
The bill is modeled after successful legislative efforts in other cities like Boston, Santa Monica and Barcelona, and is targeted at the persistent lawbreakers rather than everyday New Yorkers who might be trying to squeeze a little extra income out of an extra bedroom. Consider that the top 20% of hosts on Airbnb earned more than two thirds (68%) of the revenue. These are the bad actors a registry would help to weed out: Illegal short-term rentals are not eligible for a registration number, and platforms such as Airbnb or HomeAway risk fines if they continue to profit from illegal rentals and accept transactions from unregistered hosts. Registration in no way interferes with hosts who are now legally renting space in their primary residence while they are present.
The corporations that profit off our suffering would like us to believe that there isnt more that can be done. But the cruelty of our for-profit system is by design, and it has failed all of us, except the CEOs it is set up to enrich. In the wealthiest nation in the world, we allow people to die and go bankrupt because of the lack of affordable health care. If Congress can afford to provide tax cuts for billionaires, we can surely find the money to keep our seniors and disabled Americans safe.
Why then did the CCRB have to initiate discipline charges instead of the NYPD, and why did it take more than five years for Pantaleo to be fired? The answer is simple, and its one that every family who has lost a loved one to NYPD violence knows too well: The NYPDs disciplinary system protects its officers, not the people who have been wronged by the NYPD.
Later, directly addressing the transgender community, Chappelle said that he would be more than willing to give you an audience, but you will not summon me. I am not bending to anybodys demands. And if you want to meet with me, Id be more than willing to, but I have some demands, he said over the crowds loud cheers.
The fiancee of late actor Brandon Lee described the shock and grief she felt following his death on a movie set in 1993, and called for change after a cinematographer was fatally wounded last week while making Rust.
The sneak peek of GAC Family networks When Hope Calls Christmas, which dropped over the weekend, sees the formerly beloved actress, 57, reprising her role as Abigail Stanton from Hallmarks When Calls the Heart, according to GMA. The GAC series is its spinoff and Loughlin is currently only credited for the A Country Christmas episode, airing Dec. 18.
I want to get my degree because I really want my mom to be proud, the three-time Grammy winner told People. She saw me going to school before she passed.
The world is a whole lot cooler because Prince was in it  he touched our hearts, opened our minds, and made us want to dance. With this legislation, we honor his memory and contributions as a composer, performer, and music innovator. Purple reigns in Minnesota today and every day because of him, Klobuchar added.
Her Majesty is in good spirits and is disappointed that she will no longer be able to visit Northern Ireland, where she had been due to undertake a series of engagements today and tomorrow, Buckingham Palace said last week.
The state has appealed that ruling, but a spokesperson for the governors office said it would not pursue fines of other cruise lines citing that they could just go to the same South Florida judge and also get the injunction. That said, the state included Norwegian, Disney Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line among businesses it has been tracking that it says have violated the law.
As Seminole County continues to lead the state in prosecuting overdose deaths as murder cases, pinning a possible life in prison sentence on the person who provided or sold the fatal drugs, some have started to question the effect on the community. Public defenders and drug policy experts say the charges have not targeted high-level drug dealers, often low level sellers who are addicts themselves, or friends who happened to provide the fentanyl-laced heroin, unbeknownst to them. They also say these prosecutions encourage people not to call 911 during an overdose, fearing a murder charge, and don't stop the flow of drugs into the community. But Seminole County prosecutors and law enforcement -- who are now helping steer other regions policy on overdose investigations, like in Orlando --have said this is just one aspect of their response to the opioid epidemic
The fire briefly threatened to spread to a neighboring building and briefly shut down part of Hiawassee Road near Silver Star Road before firefighters were able to get the flames under control around 9:30 p.m., about 30 minutes after the blaze was first reported. No injuries were reported, according to Lisa McDonald, OCFR spokesperson.
Even a casual review of the record reveals that these four men were deprived of the fundamental due process rights that are afforded to all Americans, Gladson wrote. Given these facts today, no fair-minded prosecutor would even consider filing these charges and no reasonable jury would convict. The evidence strongly suggests that a sheriff, a judge, and prosecutor all but guaranteed guilty verdicts in this case.
Prior to the February memo, Leafly has contracts with 277 medical marijuana retail locations throughout the state. After the letter, some of those dispensaries canceled their subscriptions and all have stopped doing online ordering, Leafly COO Ross Moulton said during last months hearing. Moulton estimated the loss to Leafly from the canceled contracts was at least $300,000.
A sea of about 100 people, many wearing Grants favorite colors of purple and white, gathered at Building B of New Park Towers in Miramar to honor the teen who police say was beaten and stabbed to death by three schoolmates outside of his apartment on Oct. 17 after he was lured by the promise of sex into the stairwell at his apartment complex. Grant, 18, was a senior at Miramar High School.
This cruel procedure ... seems to have been performed so that the experimenters would not have to listen to the pained cries of the beagle puppies, Gimenez and Salazar wrote in a letter that was organized by South Carolina Republican Rep. Nancy Mace and signed by Republicans and Democrats. This is a reprehensible misuse of taxpayer funds.
I get that there are people who like Ron DeSantis. What I dont understand is why these people cant like DeSantis and also summon the courage to say: Its not OK to call someone who wears a mask a retard. Or hire someone who questions vaccines as the chief medical officer. Or to refuse to wear a mask around someone with a cancer diagnosis who requested you do so.
I dont want to see him sitting there as surgeon general this whole time without a proper nomination process, or his nomination should just be pulled, Polsky told MSNBC on Monday. This man is not fit to serve as our Surgeon General. He certainly didnt care about my health so I dont know how hes going to care about the public health of 21 million Floridians.
Oswego, NY (13126)

Today

Cloudy. High near 45F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Overcast. A shower of rain or wet snow possible. Low 39F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph.
Brussels, Belgium (PANA) - The European Union (EU) on Tuesday strongly condemned the military coup in Sudan on Monday and the unlawful detention of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, several ministers, leaders of the Forces of the Freedom and Change and other civil society representatives
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The deputy chairman of the Libyan Presidential Council, Abdallah al-Lafi, said that the Council relies on the forums of Libyan elites who use a "determined and calm" dialogue to manage differences of opinion and strive to unify visions and objectives
Geneva, Switzerland (PANA) - The UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), has restarted an operation to help thousands of people who fled as refugees from the Central African Republic (CAR) to the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), return voluntarily to their home country
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





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Fourth jury selection attempt in Arashukovs case failed

 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov

13:13 26/10/2021

MOSCOW, October 26 (RAPSI)  The fourth attempt to select jurors in a case against Raul Arashukov, a former adviser to the head of a Gazprom subsidiary, and his son Rauf Arashukov, has failed, attorney Vladimir Postanyuk has told RAPSI.

The Moscow City Court adjourned the hearing until November 17 due to the illness of one of the defendants, the lawyer said.

A case against 14 other defendants has been sent to the Preobrazhensky District Court of Moscow for consideration.

A probe into the Arashukovs, according to the Prosecutor Generals Office, revealed that although Raul Arashukovs total salary made only 65.9 million rubles in 2007 through 2017, whereas Rauf Arashukov received 15.6 million rubles in 2009 through 2018, they could purchase properties worth 1.469 billion rubles. Among the real estate the father and son Arashukovs purchased when holding state and local governmental posts are 75 real estate units, including apartments, apartment blocks, a hotel, a restaurant, a bathing facility, plots of land, vehicles, and luxury articles they, as claimed by the prosecutors, registered in the names of their relatives and employees. The Arashukovs together with other defendants in a 31-billion-ruble (about $431 million at the current exchange rate) gas embezzlement criminal case are in detention at this time.

Investigators claim that Raul Arashukov together with other defendants in the case were involved in gas embezzlement from Gazprom company. This April, Raul Arashukov was also charged with abuse of office and presenting a knowingly false denunciation.

Raul Arashukov pleads not guilty and calls the case against him fabricated.

Rauf Arashukov was arrested and detained in late January 2019. The upper house of parliament stripped him of immunity and gave consent to his prosecution upon an application by the Prosecutor General. He stands charged with murder, participation in a gang and witness tampering.

According to investigators, ex-Federation Council member was involved in the murder of a Karachay-Cherkessia public youth movements deputy chairman Aslan Zhukov and the republican presidents advisor Fral Shebzukhov in 2010. Moreover, investigators believe that the former senator is implicated to the natural gas embezzlement from Gazprom company, where his father is among the defendants.
Lawyer Khasavov loses cassation appeal against jail sentence for compulsion of evidence

 RAPSI, Vladimir Burnov

14:59 26/10/2021

MOSCOW, October 26 (RAPSI)  The Second Cassation Court of General Jurisdiction on Tuesday rejected an appeal filed by attorney Dagir Khasavov against his 6-year prison sentence for compulsion of evidence, RAPSI was told in the courts press service.

The court also upheld sentence passed on two other defendants in the case.

In November 2020, Moscows Izmailovsky District Court convicted and sentenced the attorney and his accomplices. Ex-advisor of Dagestans government chair Abdusalam Dzhamalutdinov and chief inspector of the republican Account Chamber Vadim Yusufov received 4.5 and 3 years in penal colony respectively.

The lawyer's prosecution was related to a case against Deputy prime minister of Russia's Republic of Dagestan Rayudin Yusufov. According to investigators, Khasavov threatened a witness of prosecution via social media inducing him to change his testimony in court.

The lawyer was arrested in September 2019. He pleaded not guilty.
A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind.
Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede, who is heading the probe into Mumbai's high profile drugs case, on Tuesday reached the head office here to meet chief S.N. Pradhan.

Mumbai NCB arrested Aryan Khan, son of actor Shah Rukh Khan in the cruise drug case investigation on October 2.

The official reached Delhi Monday night to meet the Director General of NCB in connection with bribery allegations.

According to reports, he may be questioned on the bribery allegations. When Wankhede reached the NCB office from second gate, some people had gathered there in his support.

However, while interacting with the media after reaching Delhi late on Monday night, Wankhede refuted the allegations against him as "baseless."
Four members of a family died on Tuesday after a fire erupted in a multi-storey building in Delhi's Old Seemapuri area, fire officials said.

According to the officials, fire authorities received a PCR call about the fire at around 4 a.m.

Immediately, a Police Team and Delhi Fire Services personnel reached the spot and doused the blaze.

The victims have been identified as Hori Lal (59) his wife Reena (55), Aasu (24), Roshni (18). They were hfound dead with burn injuries in a room situated on the third floor of the building, the officials said.

The family members were sleeping on the floor of their house when the fire broke out due to a short circuit, the police said.

The spot was inspected by DFS, Crime Team, FSL Team, and senior officers.

Night GO ACP Vivekvihar, DCP Shahadra, and Adl DCP-2 also visited the scene of the incident.

The bodies of the victims have been shifted to GTB Hospital Mortuary and a post-mortem examination will be carried out to ascertain the exact cause of death.

"Appropriate legal action is being taken under sections 436,304A of the Indian Penal Code against unknown persons," Delhi Police said.
An Indian armed forces contingent and bands of both army and navy will participate in "Bangladesh Victory Day Celebrations" in Dhaka on December 16, it was announced on Monday.

The decision was taken as visiting Bangladesh Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M. Shaheen met his Indian counterpart, Admiral Karambir Singh, in New Delhi.

The participation is seen as a reciprocal move as 122-member strong contingent of the Bangladesh armed forces had participated in the Republic Day parade of India this year on January 26.

The contingent comprised the personnel of the Bangladesh Army, Navy, and Air Force.

A majority of contingent hailed from the most distinguished units of the Bangladesh Army which have the distinct honour of fighting and winning the 1971 liberation war with Pakistan.

A statement issued by the Indian Defence Ministry said: "India and Bangladesh share bonds of history, language, culture and multitudes of other commonalities. The excellent bilateral ties reflect an all-encompassing partnership based on sovereignty, equality, trust and understanding that goes beyond strategic ties."

Iqbal is on an official visit to India from October 23 to 29. He has already met Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat and other high-ranking officials.

During the interactions of the two navy chiefs, issues relating to joint cooperative efforts like coordinated patrol along international maritime boundary line, bilateral exercise BONGOSAGAR, conduct of naval training and reciprocal visits of delegations was discussed. The aim was to promote interoperability and joint operation skills by conducting a wide range of maritime exercise and operations.

The second edition of Exercise BONGOSAGAR took place in northern Bay of Bengal on October 3, 2020. The first edition took place in 2019.

This year's edition will be of greater significance as it is the Mujib Borsho and 50th year of the Liberation War.

On completion of engagements in Delhi, Admiral Iqbal will be visiting Mumbai where he will meet Western Naval Command chief, Vice Admiral R. Hari Kumar, and visit the flagship of the command.

On completion of his Mumbai visit, the Admiral would proceed to Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, to witness training activities and interact with the Commandant.
Israel has lifted an official travel warning for trips to Morocco which has been in effect for the past 10 years.

"It has been decided to cancel the travel warning for Morocco that has been in place for over a decade," Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's office said in a statement.

The move came following a recommendation by the National Security Council to cancel the official warning, reports Xinhua news agency.

"This decision was made in light of an assessment of the situation according to which the estimated threat level in Morocco has declined," the office said.

However, the office recommended Israelis to "continue showing increased alert" while travelling in Morocco.

The shift came as ties between the two counties have been warming up in the wake of the signing of the US-brokered normalization deal in December 2020.
Singapore -- (SBWIRE) -- 10/25/2021 -- A leading talent management company, Volt Singapore offers global outsourcing solutions for businesses to deliver excellent results on their critical projects. Their services help clients drive projects in the right direction to meet business objectives that are strategic to their growth. The company assists clients on a global scale by providing innovative solutions, which are specially prepared according to their needs, and enables them to tackle complex market challenges. Their services allow clients to leverage their brand and attract the best-fit candidates across the globe to improve their talent quality.



With dynamic partnerships and advanced screening and sourcing methods, they identify the most suitable candidates for complex and unique roles and responsibilities. They provide clients with workforce management, consulting and other essential services and solutions that help them in making business critical decisions efficiently, overcoming initial constraints and challenges. Their services enhance the capabilities of an organisation's workforce and enable them to improve the quality and efficiency of their performance, allowing them to deliver better results.



Volt Singapore is a well renowned global talent acquisition and recruitment agency that has a massive customer base in Asia and the UK. With an experienced team of professional recruiters, they can provide the best-fit talent to their clients for a wide range of vacancies, and open positions. In addition to global outsourcing solutions, they provide services across life science recruitment, engineering recruitment, total talent management, recruitment process outsourcing and much more.



Talking further about their global outsourcing solutions, a representative of the company stated, "We have partnered with leading companies around the world to successfully implement global outsourcing solutions. Our team has 697 years of combined experience in helping our clients access their complex challenges and formulating innovative solutions. Through this process, our clients are able to move their project forward driving results for their company and overcoming initial constraints."



About Volt Singapore

An award-winning global workforce solution provider, listed on the NYSE and a Fortune 1000 organization, Volt Singapore propels businesses and careers forward with expert momentum. The company provides workforce management and talent acquisition solutions to businesses and job placement services. With many years of industry leadership and a growing global team of employment strategists, Volt strives to maintain an innovative and highly relevant sector-based portfolio globally. Volt's core values of Integrity, Respect, Innovation, Success, and Excellence are embedded in the company's code of conduct. More than a marketing slogan, Volt's values are reflected in the daily behaviour of the company's staff, its business practices, and its approach to client and candidate management.



For more information, please visit: https://www.voltinternational.com.sg



Contact Details



6 Temasek Boulevard, #25-05, Suntec Tower 4, Singapore 038986

E-mail: singapore@voltasia.com.sg

Phone: +65 6701 1500
In 2019, astronomers with the Breakthrough Listen project observed Proxima Centauri using CSIROs Parkes Murriyang radio telescope. They detected an intriguing narrowband signal with characteristics consistent with a extraterrestrial technosignature near 982 MHz. Using a new procedure for the analysis of potential engineered signals, they have now found that the signal is not an extraterrestrial technosignature, but rather an artifact of Earth-based interference from human technologies.

The significance of this result is that the search for civilizations beyond our planet is now a mature, rigorous field of experimental science, said Yuri Milner, founder of Breakthrough Inititatives.

Proxima Centauri is an astrobiologically fascinating target due to its proximity: (i) it is the closest star to the Sun at 4.22 light-years; (ii) it hosts at least two exoplanets, Proxima b and c; and (iii) it has even featured as the target of a proposed in situ search of extraterrestrial life via the Breakthrough Starshot Initiative.

Despite being our nearest stellar neighbor, few technosignature searches have been conducted towards Proxima Centauri.

In the 1990s, two SETI programs were conducted in the southern hemisphere towards nearby stars: the Project Phoenix search of 202 solar-like stars and a search for technosignatures from 176 of the brightest stars.

From April 29 to May 4, 2019, the Breakthrough Listen astronomers conducted a search for signs of technologically advanced life from the direction of Proxima Centauri using the Parkes Murriyang radio telescope.

They scanned the planetary system across a frequency range of 700 MHz to 4 GHz, with a resolution of 3.81 Hz  in other words, performing the equivalent of tuning to over 800 million radio channels at a time, with exquisite detection sensitivity.

They detected a total of 4,172,702 hits  that is, narrowband signals detected above a signal-to-noise threshold.

Of these, only one signal  at 982 MHz  passed all rounds of filtering and visual inspection and didnt lie within the frequency range of any known local radiofrequency interference.

Dubbed BLC1 (short for Breakthrough Listen Candidate 1), it had many characteristics consistent with a putative transmitter located in another stellar system.

The original signal is not obviously detected when the telescope is pointed away from Proxima Centauri  but given a haystack of millions of signals, the most likely explanation is still that it is a transmission from human technology that happens to be weird in just the right way to fool our filters, said Dr. Sofia Sheikh, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley, and a member of the Breakthrough Listen team.

Dr. Sheikh and colleagues found that BLC1 is not an extraterrestrial technosignature, but rather an electronically drifting intermodulation product of local, time-varying interferers.

They also identified dozens of instances of radio interference with similar morphologies to the BLC1 signal at frequencies harmonically related to common clock oscillators.

In the case of this particular candidate, our analysis suggests that its highly unlikely that it is really from a transmitter out at Proxima Centauri, said Dr. Andrew Siemion, an astronomer in the Department of Astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley, SETI Institute, the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Manchester, and a member of the Breakthrough Listen team.

However, this is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing signals weve seen to date.

While we were unable to conclude a genuine technosignature, we are increasingly confident that we have the necessary tools to detect and validate such signatures if they exist, said Dr. S. Pete Worden, executive director of the Breakthrough Initiatives.

The teams results appear in two papers in the journal Nature Astronomy.

_____

S. Smith et al. A radio technosignature search towards Proxima Centauri resulting in a signal of interest. Nat Astron, published online October 25, 2021; doi: 10.1038/s41550-021-01479-w

S.Z. Sheikh et al. Analysis of the Breakthrough Listen signal of interest blc1 with a technosignature verification framework. Nat Astron, published online October 25, 2021; doi: 10.1038/s41550-021-01508-8
I wonder how Mother Lanka would recognise and praise someone like Dingiriamma.

by Capt Elmo Jayawardena

The journey has been long, very very long. It started in a little village called Dandu Bendi Ruppa in Nuwara Kalaviya when Dingiriamma rolled Jayathilaka in a borrowed wheel chair for his first day in the village school. Hodatama Wahinawa Mahaththayo she told me, the skies were gray and raining and the distant clouds were coughing thunder. She had covered her 10 year old handicapped son with a plastic sheet and pushed him on rickety old wheels which were gifted to them when some old man died in the next village. Such was the beginning....

That was then, twenty five years ago.

The ceremony was solemn, opulent and almost sacred. The National University of Singapore does not spare anything when it comes to their lime light events. The Class of 2011 all gathered in their robes of black and flat hats, mostly young, this medal winner and that medal winner of Singapores best brains in youth. The recipients of the prestigious degrees totalled more the 400. Then there were the chosen few representing the elite in education, the ones who had read and completed their PhDs in this world renowned institution. The audience gathered was the whos who of Singapore in their Saville Row suits and Bally feet. Pahalagedara Jayathilaka too was there, sitting among the Doctors of Philosophy, his crutches folded across his knees waiting to be called to end his unbelievable journey.

I sat with Dingiriamma, Jayathilakas mother along with his brother and sister-in-law whom he had brought down from Sri Lanka to witness the final walk. This sure was a different planet to these rural people and they sat in their village innocence, making feeble attempts to come to terms with the grandeur of it all. If anybody had a right to be there, it sure was Dingiriamma. The name was announced, Pahalagedara Jayathilaka and I glanced at the 70 year old mother and saw her staring blink-less as her beloved son walked on to the stage. Eyes glued and tears pouring down a mottled skinned cheek she celebrated with absolute awe each step Jayathilaka was taking, crawling the final crawl in crutches to receive his PhD.

What enormous battles she had fought along with him? What roads they had walked together, poor pilgrims in an unknown odyssey? Hand in hand and crutches clinched, they trudged the unimaginable tortuous steps of a very long journey that had impossible mountains to climb. What wringing they would have done to squeeze out the drops of courage from their dented and battered lives to see the far distant light and to be where they are today?

How many roads must a man walk down, before you can call him a man? the immortal words of Dylan come to my mind. The answer is not in the wind, but in the unbelievable achievement of Jayathilaka who had surmounted all obstacles to stand tall today with his Fluid Dynamics doctorate. The other side of the coin of course is Dingiriamma, the simple uneducated mother who cultivated vegetables and raised him with 8 other siblings as a single parent in an obscure village. What visions would she know of education? What ambitions would she have hoarded as all other mothers do for their sons? What hopes? What ways to even think of him attending school let alone entering a university? She had only the purest of love, in a cruel world of cripple-look-down. Mata dukai Mahaththayo, abbagathayekne, she just wanted to make the little disabled boy play some little part in life other than to be an intrinsic failure with lame legs. That was her call, to give her son some normalcy. Dingiriamma, when she pushed the wheel chair to school on the first day, in the pouring rain, would never have thought in her wildest dreams how far this magnificent young man would travel in his long and gruelling trail.

Dr.Jayathilake,Dil and Elmo at Oxford

Yes, the old unheralded mother sat among the elite of Singapore, a poor vegetable seller from a village near Dambulla, dressed in a pale brownish white sari, a long necklace of metal and some coloured beads around her neck and a hanky to constantly wipe her eyes, watching a very rare impossible dream take form and shape in reality.

The bravest battle that ever was fought

Shall I tell you where and when?

In the maps of the world you would find it not

It was fought by the mothers of men.

I am sure all you mothers who read me in this article would silently cheer Dingiriamma, applaud her in your hearts and sing her praises to those you meet. She certainly deserves that and more, the unknown and unsung optimum of motherhood which she in her own simple way had displayed in almost unparalleled achievements of emotion filled courage and has unknowingly laid bare for others to emulate.

It was Jayathilaka who told me how he heard on his first day in school one teacher telling the other Why is this cripple allowed here? He is going to be a problem, and the other teacher saying May be he can at least learn to write his name. That he remembers well along with the other almost fairy tales he told me of his childhood and the way he scrabbled to where he is today.

Jayathilaka received repeated double-promotions and he went from the village school to Kurunegala to do his A levels where he scored the highest marks in the district and entered Katubedde University to study Mechanical Engineering.

That part had been extremely difficult, Dingiriammas meagre earnings from selling vegetables was hardly adequate to support young Jayathilaka. His best eating had been a banis or a malu paan at Mallika Bakery and the food-festivals they laid out on campus to those who survived on subsidised meals.

Jayathilake and mother Dingiriamma

I had very close interactions with him at this time. By then he had joined CandleAid Lanka as a sponsored student. I do remember asking him in his last year how he was faring in his Uni work and how he answered in a humble tone Captain, I am sure of a First Class. That bowled me completely. Here was a handicapped student crawling in crutches and broke as the ten commandments and yet dead-certain of his unamplified ability to obtain a First Class Honours degree in the subject he was reading.

Jayathilaka did not get a First Class, what he received was a Super First Class. I did not even know what that meant, but my basic English told me it was better than a First Class.

The journey is now over; Dingiriamma has done her part as a mother to bring her little handicapped boy to where he is today. He too has done more than his share, where much more able people would have given up even before they began, Pahalagedara Jayathilaka plodded on to a golden finish line.

Dr. Jayathilaka has been offered employment at the National University of Singapore as a postdoctoral researcher. He will continue there for two more years.

I want to go back, I like to teach in Sri Lanka, I owe that to my homeland that gave me a free education, such were his words after the ceremony, spoken in true patriotic vein, sincere and laced with gratitude.

That night we gathered and shared a simple meal to celebrate. They had brought kalu dodol from home, just the right Nuwara Kalaviya touch. There was no one to interview them nor flashing lights and TV cameras to record their fable. Dingiriamma recalled some of the stories of Jayathilakas childhood, how he used to crawl around the table when the others were studying and how his brother taught him to write. And how he went to school pushed in his ramshackle wheel-chair and how he painfully walked small distances bending and lifting his bad leg with his hand to take a few steps. The conversation was all about the road they travelled, and the stories sounded unbelievable, almost mythological. I wish I had space to write, but then my words would be superfluous and colourless, totally incapable of capturing the full essence of their journey, let alone the accompanying emotions of the mother and son.

I wonder how Mother Lanka would recognise and praise someone like Dingiriamma. It matters not to her and it certainly matters not to Jayathilaka, they have already won their race in super splendid fashion. These are stories that should not be forgotten. They are rare, of how a mother and son walked an extremely demanding trail from the village of Dandu Bendi Ruppa to the National University of Singapore and a PhD in Fluid Dynamics.

The shine is on them, it is for others like you and me to see and recognise the simplicity and the greatness. Pale brownish white sari, long chain with beads and hanky in hand to wipe her tears, Dingiriamma stood the tallest at the Class of 2011 celebration. As for Dr. Pahalagedara Jayathilaka in his black and green gown, clutching his crutches, he walked the proudest, yet the humblest at the ceremony, to the loudest possible ovation.

I was so privileged to be there to share that rare moment.
As we all know, there is a global shortage of fertilizer, soaring prices and insufficient supply of raw materials now. In this situation, the supplier has delivered high-quality organic fertilizer to Sri Lanka according to the contract agreement, but the buyer and relevant parties have been trying to create obstacles to contract performance in various ways to prevent organic fertilizer from entering Sri Lanka

.

by Song Hai

Background of the event

In May 2021, Sri Lankan government formulated the green agriculture development strategy of replacing chemical fertilizer with organic fertilizer. In June, the Ministry of Agriculture released the global bidding announcement for organic fertilizer procurement on their official website. Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group Co., Ltd. participated in the bidding and won the bid successfully. It was officially listed as a qualified supplier for Tender No. IFB No.SMOF/OFPR/2021/1 on August 11, to supply 99000 tons of organic fertilizer to Sri Lanka.

Course of this event

After awarded the tender, Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group signed contracts with the buyers through a local biding agent in Sri Lanka, and strictly fulfilled the contract. It overcame many difficulties, such as busy international and domestic orders, soaring global raw material prices, tight shipping schedules and berthing space, high sea freight cost and so on, and gave priority to ensure the production and delivery of the tender contract for Sri Lanka. After the buyer issued Letter of Credit (L/C), Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group shipped the organic fertilizer which comply with the quality requirements on September 23rd according to the time schedule required by L/C (before September 25th).

While the goods were on the way by sea, CFC informed that "the import permit has not been obtained" and "the goods will be rejected". However, according to international trade practices, it is the buyer's obligation to obtain the import permit. The failure to obtain the import permit is caused by the buyer's mistakes and negative inaction.

On September 23rd, Sri Lanka NPQ received the seller's product samples. On September 27th, the seller received an oral notice from the buyer and was informed that Sri Lanka Plant Quarantine Center (NPQ) issued a conclusion of "suspecting that the samples contain Erwinia", but did not provide the test report, test method and standards. According to ISPM27 rule in IPPC (International Plant Protection Convention), it will take more than 6 days to identify Erwinia, but NPQ only takes 3 days to draw a "suspicious" conclusion. After the supplier raised doubts, NPQ Sri Lanka updated the report on October 11th. 7 days was used to test, but it still did not indicate the test standards and methods. Testing temperature of Erwinia shown in the report is 37 , and carrot slices at 37  are used for pathogenicity test. According to the relevant agreement of IPPC, the testing temperature of Erwinia is 25 , and healthy plants should be used for pathogenicity test. At least 13~14 days should be used to confirm Erwinia through pathogenicity. The unscientific detection method and conclusion of NPQ in Sri Lanka obviously do not comply with international animal and plant quarantine convention.

In fact, the supplier's product samples have passed the test of Schutter group, a third-party international testing organization designated by the buyer (SLSI) and passed the export plant quarantine of China Customs before shipment on September 23. On October 5, according to the requirements of Sri Lanka NPQ, Testing Center of China Customs made a supplementary statement on the samples that the products do not contain Erwinia. However, Sri Lanka NPQ and the buyer openly denied the above test results and unilaterally used the test report issued by

NPQ laboratory as the basis for judging the product quality, which is inconsistent with the contract agreement, international trade rules and the test result of their own designated third-party.

After the seller received the buyer's letter of credit, the buyer repeatedly violated the principle of independence of letter of credit, and obstructed the bank from paying the payment to the seller by arbitrarily changing the negotiation conditions of L/C, changing the settlement method from letter of credit to collection, applying to the court for a stop payment order of letter of credit, etc.

In the case of major differences between the two parties on the facts of contract performance and major disputes over the product quality test results, the buyer and NPQ Sri Lanka have irresponsibly conveyed false and even controversial remarks to the media for many times. The media that do not know the truth have made negative reports on the quality of Chinese enterprise and Chinese products, and even used "Toxic, garbage, pollution" and other derogatory words that seriously slander the image of Chinese enterprise and the Chinese government. Such unilateral, untrue, and irresponsible remarks mislead the public and undermine the credibility of the media.

The above "deliberately creating difficulties", "unreasonable" and even "malicious" acts of Sri Lanka NPQ, the buyer and some medias give people reason to suspect that the buyer is creating various obstacles to obstruct the performance of the contract, and even has bad commercial intentions.

What is the so-called "toxic" fertilizer?

The seller Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group is a national high-tech enterprise specializing in the R & D, production and sales of new organic fertilizers. Its products have won a number of national, provincial and municipal awards in China, and its product technology, production capacity and sales value are in the forefront of similar products in the world. The products have entered the international market for nearly 20 years and have been sold in more than 50 countries and regions around the world. The series of products have passed the "EU Ecocert organic certification", "reach certification", "American OMRI certification" and China's "COFCC organic production input certification". They have a stable business growth in the international market, have been highly praised by international users for a long time, and have no bad quality record, nor has it been rejected or punished by the customs of any country.

The organic fertilizer exported to Sri Lanka this time is different from the traditional compost. It uses commercial raw materials. The manufacturing process has been sterilized at 600 , while the resistance temperature of Erwinia is 40 ~ 45 . Under the high temperature of 600 , all harmful microorganisms have been killed, and Erwinia cannot exist. Among them, the surviving bacillus are beneficial microorganisms. Because of their functions of decomposing organic matter, releasing fixed phosphorus and potassium, these strains are vigorously promoted and used in China, Philippines, and many countries in Africa and the European Union.

The seller has never used the "feces" reported by Sri Lankan media in their products production process for more than 20 years, but uses humic acid, amino acids, natural seaweed and other raw materials, which do not contain Erwinia. China's plant inspection and quarantine department also conducted a careful investigation into the matter. The investigation confirmed that the seller's products did not contain Erwinia, and made a formal explanation and reply to the Sri Lankan official on October 21.

Who is really irresponsible to the planting industry in Sri Lanka?

As we all know, there is a global shortage of fertilizer, soaring prices and insufficient supply of raw materials now. In this situation, the supplier has delivered high-quality organic fertilizer to Sri Lanka according to the contract agreement, but the buyer and relevant parties have been trying to create obstacles to contract performance in various ways to prevent organic fertilizer from entering Sri Lanka.

Even has been facing various unconfirmed "suspicious" and "single mode" test results, the seller still insists on transporting organic fertilizer to the port of Sri Lanka, which fully shows that the seller has confidence in its products and believes that the quality of products is reliable, trust worthy, and can withstand the inspection of professional institutions with international inspection qualification certification; While the buyer and relevant institutions blindly adhere to unscientific test results, deny the test results made by professional institutions, avoid re selecting a third-party testing institution for testing, and refuse to accept qualified organic fertilizer. This is extremely irresponsible to Sri Lanka's planting industry and is not in line with the president's strategy for the sustainable development of green agriculture.

Sri Lanka is now in the fertilization season, but the high-quality organic fertilizer in front of us can not be transported to farmers. By contrast, who concerns about planting industry in Sri Lanka? Who cares about Sri Lankan farmers? Who is obstructing the sustainable development of green agriculture?

Therefore,

1. The Supplier strongly requests both parties to entrust the world's most authoritative and the top third-party testing organization (Swiss SGS group) to re-sampling as soon as possible to test whether the samples are contaminated by Erwinia. Both parties should unconditionally accept the test results of the third party. If Erwinia contamination is confirmed, the supplier shall unconditionally transport the goods back to China. If there is no Erwinia contamination, the buyer shall unconditionally accept the goods and arrange payment

2. The Supplier reserve the right to investigate the legal responsibility of relevant parties for the "untrue" or even "slander" reports and comments made by some media.

Song Hai is Director, Qingdao Seawin Biotech Group Co., Ltd
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EQS Group-Ad-hoc: Kuros Biosciences AG / Key word(s): Miscellaneous

Kuros Biosciences reports continued increase in MagnetOs U.S. sales



26-Oct-2021 / 07:00 CET/CEST

Release of an ad hoc announcement pursuant to Art. 53 LR

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.



Ad hoc announcement pursuant to Article 53 of the SIX listing rules MagnetOs U.S. YTD sales increase 119% in 2021 compared to 2020

Kuros expanding MagnetOs range to increase perioperative solutions for surgeons Schlieren (Zurich), Switzerland, 26 October 2021 - Kuros Biosciences ('Kuros' or the 'Company'), a leader in next generation bone graft technologies, today provided an update on its commercial activities. Direct sales of MagnetOs in the U.S. continued to accelerate in Q3 2021, with a year-to-date increase of 119% over the same period in 2020. Kuros recently showcased new products in the MagnetOs range, including a new 2.5cc unit that is ideal for filling gaps in the spine during posterior cervical fusion procedures, a new formulation of MagnetOs that includes a collagen carrier, and MagnetOs Easypack Putty, a soft and moldable formulation ideal for packing into voids of the skeletal system, which has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug and Administration. The addition of new pack sizes, new formulations and new products to the MagnetOs range allows Kuros to offer a more complete portfolio of perioperative solutions to surgeons wanting the therapeutic benefits of MagnetOs bone graft. The company has also made progress with MagnetOs in Europe this year, signing third-party stocking distributor agreements in nine new territories, including Greece which was signed this week. These agreements add to existing distributor arrangements in the UK and the Netherlands. Clinical cases have already successfully taken place in Spain, Italy, France, Switzerland, Austria, and Denmark. In the UK, the company was recently awarded a major tender to supply biologics under the 'All Wales Orthopaedic, Trauma and Joint Replacement Framework', through its UK stocking distributor, Axis Spine Limited. This adds to the existing framework in Scotland which was announced in June. In addition, MagnetOs was also successfully commercially launched in Australia in Q2. Kuros believes it is well placed to grow its revenues and expects product sales for the full year 2021 to be well above CHF 8.0 million. Cash inflow from collaborations for the full year are expected to be up to CHF 12.0 million. For further information, please contact: Kuros Biosciences AG

Michael Grau

Chief Financial Officer

T: +41 44 733 47 47

E: michael.grau@kurosbio.com LifeSci Advisors

Hans Herklots

Investors

T: +41 79 598 7149

E: hherklots@lifesciadvisors.com About MagnetOs

MagnetOs isn't like other bone grafts. It grows bone even in soft tissue thanks to its unique NeedleGrip surface technology which provides traction for our body's vitally important 'pro-healing' immune cells (M2 macrophages). This in turn, unlocks previously untapped potential to stimulate stem cells - and form new bone throughout the graft. The growing body of science behind NeedleGrip is called osteoimmunology. But for surgeons and their patients it means one thing: a more efficient and predictable fusion. US indications statement

MagnetOs is an implant intended to fill bony voids or gaps of the skeletal system, i.e., posterolateral spine. MagnetOs must be used with autograft as a bone graft extender in the posterolateral spine. These osseous defects may be surgically created or the result of traumatic injury to the bone and are not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure. EU indications statement

MagnetOs is intended for use as bone void filler for voids and gaps that are not intrinsic to the stability of the bony structure. MagnetOs is indicated for use in the treatment of surgically created osseous defects or osseous defects resulting from traumatic injury to the bone. MagnetOs is intended to be packed into bony voids or gaps of the skeletal system (i.e., extremities, spine, cranial, mandible, maxilla and pelvis) and may be combined with autogenous bone. MagnetOs should not be used to treat large defects that in the surgeon's opinion would fail to heal spontaneously. In load bearing situations, MagnetOs is to be used in conjunction with internal or external fixation devices. About Kuros Biosciences AG

Kuros Biosciences is a fast-growing leader in the development of spinal fusion biologics that ease the burden of back pain. With locations in the United States, Switzerland and the Netherlands, the company is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. The company's first commercial product, MagnetOs, is a unique synthetic bone graft that has already been used successfully across three continents and in some 4,000 spinal fusion surgeries. The next candidate in the Kuros pipeline is Fibrin-PTH - the first drug-biologic combination for interbody spinal fusions, currently undergoing a Phase 2 clinical trial in the US. For more information on the company, its products and pipeline, visit kurosbio.com. Forward Looking Statements

This media release contains certain forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to be materially different from historical results or from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. You are urged to consider statements that include the words 'will' or 'expect' or the negative of those words or other similar words to be uncertain and forward-looking. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by any forward-looking statements include scientific, business, economic and financial factors, Against the background of these uncertainties, readers should not rely on forward-looking statements. The Company assumes no responsibility for updating forward-looking statements or adapting them to future events or developments.

End of ad hoc announcement
There will be plenty on display at the shows revived Super Yacht Village. Two new yachts from an overseas boatyard  ranging between 125 and 130 feet in length  were offloaded from a ship two days ago, joining several others due to debut at the show this week. Visitors also will get to peruse smaller boats and accessories at the refurbished Greater Fort Lauderdale / Broward County Convention Center.
As of now, we dont really recommend antibody testing as a way of directing your care because even if you have some antibodies after vaccination or disease, you should still get vaccinated or receive the booster, she said. This is because you dont know when the level will wane low enough to not really be protective anymore for you as an individual. Most labs will give you a reference number, above which you are considered to be protected but the number per se is not very indicative of what would happen should you become re-infected.
When deciding to mix or match a booster, you should weigh the benefits with the risks depending on your age, sex and vaccine type, says Katelyn Jetelina, an epidemiology researcher and professor at UTHealth School of Public Health, on her blog. For example, younger men under 30 have a higher risk of rare heart inflammation with mRNA vaccines. And younger women who are at higher risk of rare blood clots from the Johnson & Johnson vaccine can now opt for an mRNA booster.
I love everything thats going on in Miami, but I want to prove that were at least a state-of-Florida brand, if not maybe have the opportunity to be something much bigger. Moving up to Broward County is the first step, he says.
Sheehan was due to be married two months after the crash, prosecutors said. He was the son and nephew of two retired members of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue and had been on the police force for seven years.
Marcus Lumsdon, 36, pleaded no contest to two counts of murder in the deaths of Sabri Khaleq, 63, and Adnan Khalil, 48, clerks at the Port Five Star Food Mart on the corner of Blanche Ely Avenue and Northwest 15th Street. He also pleaded no contest to one count of possession of a weapon by a convicted felon and one count of bringing prohibited items into the Broward main jail, charges that were added to his record in 2016 when he was accused of hiding a shank, an improvised knife, in his socks while in custody.
The state has levied more than $520,000 in fines against the district, including the value of a $421,000 grant from the Biden administration designed to offset state cuts. Board Chairwoman Rosalind Osgood said she believes the School Board has the right under the state constitution to make health decisions for students. The district has joined five other counties in challenging the state rule, and an administrative judge is expected to make a decision next week.
The plan also calls for them to be sterilized. Williams said thats not ideal, and some members of her group arent happy at the impending decline of the colony. But she said it would be impossible to find home for any additional monkeys, since its illegal to release them into the wild and zoos arent interested in such a common species.
Ladapo has questioned the effectiveness of masks at slowing the spread of COVID-19, the deadly virus that has taken more than 58,000 lives in Florida, and downplayed the effectiveness of the vaccines. His outlook aligns with DeSantis, who has touted his moves to reopen Florida earlier than other states and prevent local governments and school boards from enacting their own mask and vaccine requirements.
Can we get back to this idea of a state guided by Jewish ethics? Of an imperative to do justly even if it feels risky? I honestly have no idea whether the Jewish establishment even has the courage to speak the truth to and for the broad swath of the Jewish people in this way. But surely we can have the decency to address these questions among ourselves without dragging a talented young politician like Omari Hardy down with us.
This action, the EPA said, allows the state to more effectively and efficiently evaluate and issue permits under the (Clean Water Act) to support the health of Floridas waters, residents, and economy. Two months later, Nestle got approval to quadruple the amount of water it pumps from Ginnie Springs, northwest of Gainesville.
Simpson should schedule confirmation votes during the opening week of the 2022 session, restate his personal displeasure and urge all other senators to use their best judgment in deciding the surgeon generals fate. Thats all Simpson has to do, and it would signal to DeSantis that senators view Ladapo as unacceptable and unfit to serve. Such is the power of the Senate presidency, about which Ladapo is clueless. (An ominous sign is that DeSantis has not publicly defended him.)
The late Chief Madzanga Ndwandwe once sat me down and gave me a very interesting advice.

He said, never try to be close friends with His Majesty, he can never be your friend but your King because he is libhubesi (lion). When a lion tries to play and its razor sharp claws come out, you will get hurt by mistake. When old friends fight they can forgive each other but with a King thats not possible because the damage is too great. His friends are only his emakhosikati who also endure pain from time-to-time. Do your duty and leave until you are called again.

When you are appointed to any position, in our language it is said ubulewe (you have been killed) because your ordinary life dies. You do as you are told to defend the system (wagana inkhosi). This is the mindset of a conservative leader. Generally, most emaSwati are conservative with strong traditional and cultural values. There are many conservative emaSwati who are presently lost and are having serious mental debates and some are in leadership positions and find themselves having to defend the system. Events have moved so fast that most have not had time to catch their breath and internalise a democratic future where a multi-party government would be in power, not labadzala.

Not knowing political parties leadership but just party names has made it even more difficult to jump ship and abandon the King you know. The fact that all these changes have come via previously unknown violence and intimidation has not helped. The silence by the King has not helped also as the instinctive nature of conservatives is to wait for the King to give direction.

Unfortunately, the last few times His Majesty addressed the nation they were left more confused because these are emaSwati who are generally not confrontational by nature. The Sibaya address had played out differently in their minds, they were expecting the King to first extend condolences to those who lost their loved ones, express sympathy for the loss of property and announce the Reconstruction Fund. And in a strong dignified manner issue strong words of rebuke to the perpetrators. They expected a response more in line with the response given by Princess Sikhanyisos sesivile maSwati speech. But no, as every speech that followed left this conservative group stunned.

Biblical prophets

Conservative emaSwati have remained silent because their perception of the monarchy has almost biblical connotations. They consider the King to be anointed by God. 1 Samuel 24 verses 5 to 7 says David spared the life of King Saul, which was given to his hand but just cut the corner of his robe saying; I cannot kill the anointed of God. For many emaSwati listening to the direct attacks on the King has been difficult. Their drive for democracy is motivated by moving the King out of political fire into a safe zone as a constitutional Monarch.

Since prophets have entered the scene it is important as conservatives that we ask the Bible for direction. Matthew 7:16-20 basically gives guidelines of how to see a true prophet and a false one through the fruit their produce. Their language, character even dress code will tell you who they are. If the man of God curses and uses bad language, know immediately that he is a false prophet.

Sibaya

The past week must have been a great relief to many conservatives as His Majesty finally extended sympathy and condolences to the victims of the unrest even though it was not from him personally. Traditionally and according to the Constitution (Chapter xiv Traditional Institutions 232) Sibaya, the Peoples Parliament, is the correct place to make major political changes. This has brought some hope of normality to a lot of conservatives, however, the biggest concern is placing the Incwala ceremony at great risk of possible bloodshed as emabufto might clash with political party formations. That is if nothing is done between now and the Incwala ceremony. Some form of dialogue, maybe through Parliament, can minimise the risk. The threats against traditionalists and loyalists from progressive forces are too much. To dress up in traditional attire is risky these days.

Fear

The average conservative liSwati clearly knows that there has to be political change. The royal family cannot continue like this if it is to remain relevant and the progressive forces have presented a formula of getting the democracy they are comfortable with. The narrative is that if you still have any sympathy towards the monarchy you also agree with alleged killing of innocent protesters. This is where the fear is coming from within conservative emaSwati.

My brother, a policeman, was recently accused of killing a student and his picture plastered on social media putting his life and that of his family in danger and when the error was brought to the attention of the media house there was no apology or retraction. The child he is accused of killing is still alive today. The fear of victimisation is so real to all conservatives. A list posted on Facebook claiming to be the list of killer army officers, with their force numbers turned out to be a list licked from a government department which is preparing things for the water party (bemanti) and these officers had nothing to do with any killings. This also means police officers who will be escorting the water party are at risk.

Democracy, the rule of law

We say we are fighting for democracy and the rule of law but presently two Members of Parliament are unjustly imprisoned without bail. The conservative liSwati who is not part of any political party is asking himself; if they (MPs) can be locked up what will happen to them if they dare challenge the system.

Most conservatives dont like to challenge authority and would rather endure injustice which is not part of the progressives spirit which says if they cant do it legally they do it anyhow.

The conservatives find themselves caught between a rock and a hard place. The way the progressives are moving gives the conservatives fear that when this is over the rule of law will be compromised through kangaroo courts as the present system is breaking the rule of law and locking up Members of Parliament with flimsy charges.

I have received a lot of emails from conservatives who are frustrated, saying they wish to be part of the democratic movement for change, but when asked to publish their responses with their names they refuse. Some say we must come together but soon disappear. History will always remember the every action taken or not taken. Dont think too much just follow the path that feels right, God is with you. septermbereswatini@gmail.com
MANZINI - Some textile workers claim they survive on only E50 on a monthly basis.

The workers revealed this as they were preparing for their strike action, which was supposed to start yesterday and led by the Amalgamated Trade Union of Swaziland (ATUSWA). The strike action was stopped by the court after some of the textile and apparel sector employers approached the Industrial Court last Friday and as a result, the industry operated without any disturbances yesterday.

The workers are demanding a minimum wage of at least E15 per hour, which would take their salaries to an average of E3 500 per month, which is the national minimum wage demanded by the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA). They also demand the release of the incarcerated Members of Parliament (MPs)  Hosea MP Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Ngwempisi MP Mthandeni Dube, among other things.

Average

In their claims, the workers said they earned about E2 000 per month, on average. They said they used about E550 for rent, E250 for transport and E200 for electricity. Most of us have children, so we pay at least E250 at daycare centres. We also spend about E340 on disposable nappies and E360 on formula, the workers said. They said the above expenses amounted to E1 955, which meant that they would have only E50 to buy food for themselves and their families. They added that with the remaining E50, they were expected to also buy clothes for themselves and their children and save some for medical expenses and emergencies. In that regard, they said their only option was to fight for better wages.

Again, the workers claimed that aspiring Members of Parliament (MPs), who usually promised them the world when campaigning, forgot about them the moment they were elected into Parliament. They only appreciate our value when campaigning, they said. Last week, ATUSWA served six textile factories and government with notices of a strike action, which was scheduled to start yesterday. The companies which were served with the notices were Fashion International, FTM Garments and Juries Manufacturers.

The others were Kasumi Apparels Swaziland, Zheng Yong Swaziland and Hos Enterprises. In the notice, ATUSWA said as a result of companies alleged refusal to cooperate with the Conciliation Mediation and Arbitration Commission (CMAC) for purposes of conducting the secret ballot in terms of Section 86 (2) of the Industrial Relations Act 2000, as amended, it invoked Section 86 (5) of the Act. The section reads; Failure by the commission to organise a ballot in conformity with this section shall not deprive an otherwise lawful strike of the protection under this Act.

Again, the union said in furtherance of the demands from workers as represented by ATUSWA, the notice was given to notify the companies about the commencement of a strike action in terms of Section 86 (8) of the Industrial Relations Act No.1, 2000 as amended. The strike action will commence on Monday October 25, 2021 at or around 7am, read part of the notice.

Resolution

Thereafter, the union re-affirmed its willingness and commitment to finding an amicable resolution to the issues at hand. However, after the textile companies approached the court, they were granted an order which interdicted and restrained ATUSWA and its members from engaging in the strike action, pending a determination of a matter which was in court. The court also said the strike action notices which were issued by ATUSWA last Wednesday, were irregular and unlawful.

Meanwhile, ATUSWA Secretary General Wonder Mkhonza said after the court order which restrained them from engaging in the strike action, they advised their members to report for duty, pending the finalisation of the matter which was in court.
MBABANE - Minister of Public Service Mabulala Maseko has made it clear that government will apply the no-work, no-pay rule and further take disciplinary action against civil servants who will participate in the march slated for later this week.

The minister was speaking on national radio yesterday morning. Maseko said in as much as workers had a right to voice out their grievances, they should consider sticking to the confines of the law. The minister stated that workers who would participate in an unlawful march risked being marked absent from work. He said the ministry would take disciplinary action against absent employees.

Disciplinary

Maseko stated that part of the disciplinary measures included the no-work, no-pay rule and disciplinary hearing which might result in some losing their jobs if found guilty. Asked during an interview if the ministry had a monitoring tool in place, Maseko stated that each ministry had human resources managers and under secretaries to monitor the attendance lists of employees.

He said those lists would be used to ascertain those who decided to absent themselves from work. At the time, the minister had heard that TUCOSWA would engage in a three-day march, meaning civil servants might be absent from work for three days. The minister stated that he had an open door policy where civil servants were expected to discuss their issues as opposed to marches. Maseko also warned health workers who were reportedly neglecting patients in hospitals. He stated that health workers had no right to neglected patients in hospitals. In vernacular, he said; Nalo lilahle emhlane kulabo labagodla emandla emsebentini, meaning those who neglect patients will suffer the consequences.

Intimidation

Responding to the minister, Acting TUCOSWA Secretary General Mduduzi Gina said workers were used to intimidation. Let us warn those who think they can stand on the rights of workers individually. Once workers are provoked, they will retaliate, he said. He added that the union had appealed to government to cooperate during the one day march. When asked if TUCOSWA had money to compensate the workers should government decide to invoke the no-work no-pay rule, Gina did not give a direct response. Instead, he asked this reporter if he was aware that some employers could fire their employees without a reason. He then stated that the union would have to defend the unfair labour practice.

Gina had been asked how they intended to march in the countrys major towns following the ban of granting of permits by municipalities. The ban was announced by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development Prince Simelane in a press conference last week. This was after the National Commissioner of Police William Tsitsibala Dlamini had stopped a march which was proposed by publi sector associations (PSAs). Prince Simelane announced the ban after the Municipal Council of Mbabane had granted the permission.

Worth noting was that the ministers decision attracted criticisms from several sectors of society, including some Members of Parliament. Gina said following the decision by Prince Simelane, TUCOSWA had decided to write a letter to him. We have decided to write to the minister personally because he banned the municipalities from issuing the permits. What should be noted is that we were not obliged to write to him. We believe he will call us if he sees a need, otherwise we will deliver our petitions in the entire major towns on Thursday, Gina said. The major towns are Mbabane Manzini, Nhlangano, Siteki, Piggs Peak, Hluti, according to Gina.

He mentioned that the union would deliver petitions to the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology and that of Housing and Urban Development. Gina said they would also foster the proposed dialogue as the frustration of workers could be dealt with through the dialogue.

Intention

He stated that the Public Order Act was clear that the people should notify the municipality about their intention to march in towns. He emphasised that the Public Order Act did not speak about seeking the permission but spoke about notifying the municipality about the intention to march. The Public Order Act is clear that the municipality can meet us if it sees a need to discuss certain issues ahead of the march. If the municipality sees no need for a discussion, it can grant the permit without even meeting us. There is nowhere that the Public Order Act speaks about the minister, he said. However, the minister could not be reached for a comment as his cellphone rang unanswered. He was called to confirm if he had really received the letter from TUCOSWA.
MBABANE  Bertram Stewart, the former Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Training, has been redeployed to the office of the Prime Minister.

He is one of eight others who have either been redeployed or appointed to the position of principal secretaries. Prime Minister Cleopas Sipho Dlamini announced the changes yesterday at Cabinet during a press briefing. This happens at a time when the country has been marred by protest actions, some involving the burning of schools by pupils who have been presenting demands to head teachers which include the release of incarcerated Members of Parliament (MPs) Mduduzi Bacede Mabuza and Mthandeni Dube.

Such actions by the pupils, coupled with political unrest in the country, resulted in the PM closing schools indefinitely. When asked about his redeployment to the PMs Office, Stewart said as a civil servant, he was available to be posted to any ministry and was looking forward to the new challenge. He wished his successor, Bheki Gama, well. Gama is the new PS in the Ministry of Education and Training.

Confident

Stewart said he worked closely with Gama, hence he was confident that he would be competent at his new job. However, Swaziland National Association of Teachers (SNAT) Secretary General Sikelela Dlamini said as the leadership, they learnt many things from Stewart, who came with a completely different dimension. Dlamini said Stewart did not take things seriously even those that needed serious attention. I can say he was too casual even on matters of great importance, said the SG.

Also he said Stewart would at times show less respect for the next person, something they said, as SNAT executive, learnt to live with. Bad as our relationship was with him, we have been able to learn a few lessons out of it, he stated. Dlamini said Stewart also had a good side to him. He added that they were hoping to see change for the better in him in the future. Further, he stated that the new PS, Gama had always been welcoming such that they used him as an entry point in the ministry and he received their letters of demand. The SG expressed hope that they would continue to have a great relationship with Gama. This, he said was not meant to patronise him as they were aware that while working together, there would be instances where they would disagree. He said they were also open to that.

When questioned about the SNAT comments, especially on the respect for others, Stewart said it was their perception. Also being redeployed was former PS in the Ministry of Public Works and Transport Khangeziwe Mabuza, who was sent to the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs. Mabuza was replaced by Thulani Mkhaliphi from the Ministry of Labour and Social Security.

Redeployed

The former PS in the Ministry of Tourism and Environmental Affairs John Hlophe was redeployed to that of Labour and Lindiwe Mbingo, who worked at the PMs Office, was sent to the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs. Further, the PM announced the appointment of Thabsile Mlangeni to the Ministry of Economic Planning and Development. Meanwhile, the appointment of Lorraine Hlophe, who was the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs principal secretary and Bheki Bhembe from Ministry of Economic Planning and Development was revoked.
LOBAMBA - If government does not do anything about police brutality, the public will direct its anger at Members of Parliament (MPs).

This is the fear that was relayed by the MPs as they condemned the silence of Prime Minister (PM), Cleopas Sipho Dlamini, and his Cabinet on the many incidents of alleged police brutality. The MPs made this known during the debate of a motion moved by Lobamba Lomdzala MP Marwick Khumalo, who asked the PM, in his capacity as the minister responsible for the Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), to stop being silent on the reported incidents of police brutality.

Using Standing Order Number 58, the MP said as legislators, they had to make sure their privileges were respected.

He said as legislators, it was not good for them to not provide answers when people were getting injured and dying allegedly at the hands of police officers.

He said if the silence continued, it would cause trouble for the MPs. The MP said one of his colleagues had relayed receiving threatening messages for being silent on the issue. Khumalo mentioned that police officers were using guns known as R5s, which he said were condemned even in neighbouring South Africa during the Marikana era.

After moving the motion, Speaker Petros Mavimbela explained that the PM, who was also present, was meant to present a ministerial statement which would include condemning the police brutality. The Speaker also mentioned that government had already condemned police brutality.

Understand

However, this was not taken kindly by Motshane MP Robert Magongo, who stood up on a point of order. Magongo, said he did not understand what the speaker meant when he said the actions by the police had been condemned. We live in the same country, we see everything. The actions by the police have not been condemned. Unless they were condemned at Mhlambanyatsi, said Magongo, to which the Speaker warned that members of the House should be serious. Proceeding with his submission, Magongo said he was worried that the Speaker and others were provided with security while MPs were not. He said it was concerning that unarmed civilians were shot for nothing.

The shooting is not justified at all. We saw during a march to the US Embassy, there were over 20 000 people, but still it was peaceful, submitted Magongo.

At that moment, Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg stood up on a point of order and asked what exactly the House was debating as there was no motion written down. The minister requested clarity, saying the Standing Order was being infringed upon. He said he was worried that the House would lose order. His submission prompted MP Khumalo to stand up and explain the purpose of the motion. Despite the clarity by Khumalo, Ndzingeni MP Lutfo mentioned that saying there was no order in the House would send a wrong message.

After clarity was offered by the Speaker, Hhukwini MP Nkhanyeti Ngwenya submitted how his own son was shot, allegedly by police officers, outside his home.

He condemned the brutality and pleaded with government to act. Also debating the motion was Mangcongco MP Oneboy Zikalala, who said it was a serious concern that government was silent on the police brutality. If government comes out and condenms it strongly, we will then support it and relay the message to the constituents. The brutality is such that if as a man you steal a woman from a police officer, you will be shot. We have buried many people already, all because guns have been given to the wrong people, he submitted.

Examined

Furthermore, he said at times he wondered if police officers were examined mentally to ascertain if they were still in their right senses to continue with their duties. The MP also asked if police officers were not having financial challenges as a result of debts. Meanwhile, Ndzingeni MP Lutfo submitted that the death of a person brought nothing but sadness and misery. That is why the death sentence was abolished in the country. The deputy prime minister (DPM) went to Geneva where he reported that 37 civilians were killed. But he has never told us who killed them. I would be happy if in his ministerial statement, the PM would include that so that the nation can know and the matter can be put to rest, he submitted.

The Ndzingeni MP said his wish was to have government dedicate time to mourn for the families who either lost their loved ones or had their relatives injured during the political unrest. Mourning is our culture as emaSwati, he said. MP Lutfo posed a question why government was running away from the need to dialogue in the country. Meanwhile, Lubombo Regional MP Lorraine Nxumalo asked if there was an order for police officers to shoot willy-nilly and kill citizens.

The MP said she was asking since on many instances where there were protest marches, marchers were usually shot at.

She also accused members of the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) of allegedly torturing people at their homesteads. The soldiers do as they please at times. You hear stories that they get to a homestead and order both the husband and wife to lie down and then assault them in front of their children just for breaking the curfew, she submitted. Gilgal MP Sandla Fakudze said the shooting of innocent civilians, which included protesters, had caused disabilities.

The retreat which was scheduled to be held at Piggs Peak Hotel was moved to a different venue after part of the hotel was torched and the PM requested each MP to condemn the behaviour of constituents because things had gotten out of hand yet now government was not condemning the behaviour of security forces, yet people were dying, he said.

The MP also mentioned that the police should have an independent body investigating them because it was counterproductive for the national commissioner to be the one who investigates the same officers he was in charge of. We cannot keep allowing forces to beat people and harass them and expect them to not retaliate. If we treat people like animals, they will react like animals, said the MP. Maseyisini MP Mduduzi Dlamini highlighted that a person now had to choose their words wisely simply because once they spoke, they might find themselves in trouble.

Those who have been affected by the political unrest should be duly compensated and the political situation in the country should be discussed at length and everyone should be involved, said the Maseyisini MP. Police are our neighbours and relatives. They should also be included in the talks and voice out how they got to a point of using force to retaliate on unarmed citizens, he further said. The Maseyisini MP also decried the division within Parliament and how legislators were categorised once they made submissions.

Hope

We need to unite and speak in one voice and the Kings announcement of dialogue brings hope because peace needs to be restored in the country, said the MP.

Siphocosini MP Mduduzi Matsebula wondered why the use of ammunition and force was the only strategy to disperse crowds by security forces. What happened to the use of water cannons, like we see in other countries? How did we get to a point where the shooting of people is the first response? asked the MP. After the MPs had passed the motion, MP Khumalo applauded them for taking their time to debate it.

He then made reference to an incident where a police officer had his gun taken from him by protesters and said they did not harm him in any way.

He said despite that the protesters had all the time to shoot the officer, they did not do so. We have not heard of incidents where police have been killed by protesters, but they continue to shoot people willy-nilly. I am happy that we debated this issue today, it was hard. Some people want us to be conformists and keep quiet, but I am not going to allow that, said Khumalo. He highlighted that one life lost was one too many and that government needed to take care of the people by showing compassion the families of those who lost their lives or were injured during the political unrest.
LOBAMBA - Who got the money?

There was drama in the House of Assembly yesterday as Members of Parliament (MPs) demanded that a list of those who allegedly benefitted financially from foreign agencies amid the political unrest should be revealed. This was after Kwaluseni MP Mabhanisi Dlamini had made a submission that as the country was trying to deal with the political unrest, there was a need for MPs to do an introspection. Even though the MP did not share details of who exactly allegedly gave some of his colleagues money, the issue seemingly stirred the hornets nest as there was mumbling inside the House.

It should be noted that there have been circulating claims that some MPs were benefitting financially to push a political agenda. At some point, there were claims that some MPs were promised millions if they masterminded the termination of diplomatic ties between Eswatini and The Republic of China (Taiwan). Also, there have been claims that there are various factions that have been paid to push the struggle for change in the country. Dlamini said the MPs were the reason why the country found itself in the situation it was in. In fact, MP Mabhanisi stated that the MPs had actually misled the nation.

Withdraw

After his submission, Motshane MP Robert Magongo stood up on a point of order and asked the Kwaluseni MP to withdraw his submission. He must not say that we misled the nation. He must count us out. This thing is a thorn of an issue, said Magongo and had his colleagues laughing at how he phrased his statement.

Again, the Kwaluseni MP continued with his submission, saying the unrest started inside the House. We did not tell the citizens out there that there were proper procedures they had to follow in order to achieve the change they want. We made it sound like change could be achieved overnight yet we know that the Constitution details all the steps that need to be followed, said the MP.

He said the police and the citizens were fighting because the MPs did not tell them the correct procedures. At that point, Lobamba Lomdzala MP Marwick, who had moved a motion calling for police brutality to be condemned, stood up and submitted that there was an issue with the submission made by the Kwaluseni MP.

MP Khumalo said he did not want to associate himself with the assertion made by the Kwaluseni MP and advised that he should express an opinion about himself instead of involving the rest of the MPs.

Nkilongo MP Timothy Myeni also stood up to submit that the statement that MPs had caused the chaos should be withdrawn. At that point, some of the MPs burst into laughter as MP Myeni had earlier refused to withdraw a statement he had made. More MPs stood up to request that their colleague from Kwaluseni should withdraw the statement as they said it put them in a bad light as they were debating a serious issue of implicated police brutality. In response, the MP said he did not say that the MPs caused the police to shoot unarmed civillians, but that he called for them to advise the people to follow the right steps in their aspirations to achieve change.

After saying that, he posed a question to the MPs on whether they were clean themselves. Kute yini timali letishintje tandla la? he asked in vernacular which means, Has there not been any exchange of cash here? At that point, Manzini South MP Thandi Nxumalo said she was concerned that the MP had involved all of them instead of using the word some. Ndzingeni MP Lutfo Dlamini also stood up on a point of order, saying he was disturbed by the submission.

If there is an allegation that some of us were paid some money, we will start giving each other strange looks. This cannot just be a blanket statement, let us not ignore it, submitted the Ndzingeni MP.

Speaker Petros Mavimbela intervened by asking the Kwaluseni MP to withdraw the statement for the sake of progress. This was after some of the MPs said their colleague should reveal the list of the MPs who had allegedly benefitted financially. The Speaker said he should just withdraw so that the issue of the list could not drag on. Sithobelweni MP Bhekitje Dlamini, speaking in jest said: Sesivele sibhocekile which means: We have already been implicated. MP Mabhanisi withdrew the statement and the Speaker insisted that the proceedings should continue. However, there was mumbling among the MPs. When given the chance to continue with his submission, the Kwaluseni MP made reference to a statement earlier made by another MP, to the effect that the legislators were now divided and made of groups which had different views.

Importance

He said it was, therefore, of paramount importance that they did an introspection and checked if they themselves were clean. Kuko konkhe loku lokwentekako laveni, asitihlole kutsi sihlobe kangangani, he said in vernacular which means, In all that is happening in the country, we need to check if our hands are clean.

Lomahasha MP Ndumiso Masimula also made a submission where he raised that the MPs were debating a sensitive issue. He then posed a question on why the list of MPs who had allegedly benefitted financially to push a certain agenda was not revealed. Ifihlwe lani le list ngoba tintfo letinjena ngito letibanga kungevani? he asked in vernacular.

At that point, MP Mabhanisi stood up and spoke in jest, saying he was surprised that another MP was given a chance to raise the issue yet he was ordered to withdraw it. After that, Masimula then said he was withdrawing the submission on the list, but still wanted the House to be furnished with the names of MPs who allegedly benefitted financially.
QatarEnergy and Koreas Hydrogen Convergence Alliance (H2Korea) signed an agreement for cooperation in the field of hydrogen energy.



The agreement provides a framework of cooperation in the development of the hydrogen sector in both countries, encouraging growth of the hydrogen industry and expansion of the hydrogen supply chain, in addition to supporting efforts within multilateral fora to accelerate cooperation for hydrogen related technologies worldwide.



Saad Sherida Al-Kaabi, the Minister of State for Energy Affairs, the President and CEO of QatarEnergy, and Sung-Wook Moon, the Minister for Trade, Industry and Energy in Korea witnessed the signing of the agreement, during their meeting in Doha.



Al-Kaabi hailed the solid ties and historical long-term partnership between Qatar and Korea in the field of energy and expressed the mutual desire of the two countries to further build and expand on this partnership for many decades to come.



Al-Kaabi said: We are pleased to sign this agreement on hydrogen to expand our strong relations into new horizons of cleaner energy including our long-established strategic partnership in the field of liquefied natural gas. We believe hydrogen has an important role to play in the energy transition towards an affordable, reliable and clean energy system, but only if relevant competent entities, such as QatarEnergy and H2Korea, join hands to achieve this goal.



The Hydrogen Convergence Alliance (H2Korea) is a public-private consultative body established by the Korean government in 2017 to promote and develop the hydrogen industry with the aim of achieving an early hydrogen economy society in the Republic of Korea and to act as a bridge between the public and the private sector by exploring policy tasks, supporting businesses, international cooperation projects, and public relations projects.  TradeArabia News Service
The World Future Energy Summit will host innovations from around the world, as well as international technology pavilions from Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Netherlands, France, Austria, Nigeria, India, Japan, Korea and China.

To be held from January 17 to 19, 2022 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) as part of Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, the prestigious, sustainability-focused global platform hosted by Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company Masdar, will bring together world leaders from government, technology, energy to showcase clean energy solutions.

World Future Energy Summit is the worlds leading business event on the renewable energy industrys annual calendar, and its more relevant now than ever.

Following COP26, where global economies are expected to layout plans for decarbonisation the World Future Energy Summit will enable the brightest minds in the business to meet, exchanging ideas and showcasing new innovations that will support the development of a sustainable future.

World Future Energy Summit is perfectly timed, especially as the GCC begins to diversify its energy mix and a regional charge on use of renewable energy sources. In the region, more countries have committed to building major infrastructure projects that significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, with green hydrogen generation projects emerging as the crown jewel of these efforts.

In Oman, plans are under way to build a $30 billion plant that will be the world's largest green hydrogen production facility at its completion. The plant is expected to be at full capacity in 2038, powered by 25GW of wind and solar energy.

Further north, Saudi Arabia's high-tech coastal city of Neom is the site to an equally proactive effort in the race for green hydrogen production, as Air Products and its partners work to deliver a $7 billion renewable energy-powered green hydrogen-based ammonia production facility by 2025.

Furthermore, the United States plans to investment an additional $550 billion in clean energy, with China having already issued green bonds with a value of $154.7 billion.

In the UAE, Masdar aims to develop with its partners Siemens Energy and Marubeni a green hydrogen demonstrator plant at Masdar City.

Masdar's parent company Mubadala, alongside Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc) and holding company ADQ, also agreed earlier this year to form a hydrogen alliance to produce green and blue variants of the fuel.

In Dubai, the first solar-driven green hydrogen production facility in the Mena region has already been inaugurated, with a total investment of $11 million.

The pilot project will produce 20.5kg/hour of hydrogen at 1.25MWe of peak power, in line with the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and epitomising the public-private partnerships widely viewed in the industry as the most efficient way to move forward.

As the centrepiece of World Future Energy Summit 2021, the Energy Expo will be vital in accelerating this already fast-paced industry. The Energy Expo will host some of biggest names in renewable energy, including Taqa, EDF, Engie and EWEC as exhibitors. The Solar & Clean Energy Forum will host industry leaders as speakers and panellists, including: Bruce Stedall, Asset Management Director, Transco; Dr Emmanouil Kakaras, Executive Vice President Next Energy Business at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries EMEA; Mothana Bahjeat Qteisha, Senior Managing Director, MEA & APAC, Jinko Solar amongst others.

Capitalising on this undeniable momentum is extremely important for bold, forward-thinking investors, and Grant Tuchten, Group Event Director for World Future Energy Summit, said the Energy Expo & Forum will be beneficial for anyone in attendance. Renewable energy is the central focus of the exhibition he remarked, where government officials and decision makers are together with the engineers and scientists who are developing exciting new technologies to facilitate business discussions resulting in beneficial partnerships.

Mohamed AlNowais, Managing Director of AMEA Power, a key exhibitor at the World Future Energy Summit, added: The future of energy is no longer an ambition: it is an urgent imperative. As a pure-play renewable power developer AMEA Power is working relentlessly on that imperative. As we look for all opportunities to speed up our green growth, we very much look forward to being at the 2022 World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi  finally meeting in one place with many key stakeholders. WFES Abu Dhabi has been for years the venue of choice for top industry professionals, and we are exceptionally excited to be there in person again.

On a similar note, Energy Systems CEO of DNV, Ditlev Engel, said: "The world needs to make this a decade of deep decarbonisation, overcoming the urgent and complex challenge of transitioning to a clean-energy system. The scale and pace required is framed by the Paris Agreement  limiting global warming to well below 2C, striving towards a limit of 1.5C above pre-industrial temperatures by the end of the century  but to achieve that the right decisions have to be made today. Our 12,000 colleagues globally are prepared to help organisations in tackling the energy transition so we can all do our part to deliver. The World Future Energy Summit brings an opportunity to gather and keep moving forward the transformation.-- TradeArabia News Service
President of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdymukhamedov held talks in Ashgabat with President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kasym-Zhomart Tokayev, who arrived in the country on a state visit.

During the one-on-one meeting and talks with participation of the two delegations, the sides discussed a wide range of issues relating to the Turkmen-Kazakh cooperation and exchanged views on a number of topical regional and global issues of mutual interest.

The talks finished with a ceremony of signing bilateral documents. To the applause of the audience, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov and President Kassym-Zhomart Tokayev signed the Joint Statement and the Treaty between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan on the delimitation of the Turkmen-Kazakh state border and delimitation of adjacent fishing areas in the Caspian Sea.

In the second half of the day, the President of Kazakhstan visited the Memorial Complex People's Memory, where he laid flowers at the monument Eternal Glory and viewed the exhibits of the Museum Sanctity of Motherland located nearby, leaving a memorable entry in the Book of Honorary Guests. Then, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev laid flowers at the Monument of Independence of Turkmenistan.

In the evening, President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov hosted an official dinner in honor of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, at which the leaders of the two countries exchanged speeches. Later, the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan proceeded to the Ashgabat international airport and departed from Ashgabat.

 TURKMENISTAN.RU, 2021
Tehran, Oct 26 (UNI) Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi will inaugurate a multilateral meeting of Afghanistans neighbours, plus Russia, tomorrow.

The meeting will see the participation of foreign ministers of six neighbours of Afghanistan, foreign ministry spokesperson Saeed Khatibzadeh told reporters at his weekly press briefing in Tehran.

While the Uzbek, Tajik, Turkmen and Pakistani foreign ministers will take part in person, the Chinese and Russian foreign ministers will attend the meeting virtually. Representatives from Beijing and Moscow will be present at the meeting.
Unicef 'goes dark' in Afghanistan on World Childrens Day 20 Nov 2021 | 1:01 PM Kabul, Nov 20 (UNI) UNICEF Afghanistan on Saturday closed its digital channels, and went dark to reflect the challenges that Afghan children have been facing, said the UN body's press note adding the United Nations Children Fund will not celebrate the World Childrens Day in the Taliban-captured South-Asian nation this year. see more..

Australians' fear of Covid-19 infection hits all-time high 20 Nov 2021 | 11:23 AM Canberra, Nov 20 (UNI/Xinhua) More Australians than ever think that they may contract Covid-19 in the short-term future despite the high vaccination rate, a survey has found. see more..

Former PM Khaleda Zia's physical illness 'Bangladesh politics is heating up' 20 Nov 2021 | 10:34 AM Dhaka, Nov 20 (UNI) BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia has suddenly become 'hot' Politics of Bangladesh. BNP leaders are speaking at various places, including the National Assembly, demanding permission to take Khaleda Zia abroad. see more..

New Zealand reports 174 new cases of COVID-19 20 Nov 2021 | 9:51 AM Wellington, Nov 20 (UNI/Xinhua) New Zealand reported 174 new cases of COVID-19, said the country's Ministry of Health in a statement on Saturday. see more..
Lee Jae-yong heir to the Samsung empire convicted and fined on drug charges

Seoul, Oct 26(UNI) Lee Jae-yong the heir to the Samsung empire was on Tuesday convicted and fined for illegally using the sedative propofol.

According to reports the embattled businessman had apparently taken the drug, commonly used as anaesthesia, dozens of times in recent years, the BBC reported.

Under South Korean law, recipients of a controlled drug can be prosecuted along with those who administer it.
Islamabad, Oct 26 (UNI) Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday said that she her governments wants stronger trade ties and economic collaboration with Pakistan, Dawn reported on Tuesday.

Hasina said this while talking to Pakistans High Commissioner to Bangladesh Imran Ahmed Siddiqui during their meeting in Dhaka.

According to a statement by the foreign office the two sides agreed to promote trade relations between the two countries.

This was the second meeting between Ms Hasina and Mr Siddiqui in nearly eleven months and took place at a time when there is a growing feeling on both sides that the ties between the two countries have remained in deep freeze for over a decade now.

Ms Hasina is scheduled to make her first visit to Pakistan soon.

UNI XC ACL0926
An international operation aimed at strengthening passenger controls at a number of seaports and airports linking North Africa to Southern Europe has yielded 29 arrests for a variety of offences, including one on terrorism charges.

The individual concerned, arrested in Algeria, was subject to an INTERPOL Red Notice for terrorism activities. An additional 24 terrorism-related hits based on checks in INTERPOL and national law enforcement databases were identified throughout the operation. The operation, code-named Neptune III, also saw seizures of illicit drugs, luxury vehicles, firearms and cash.

Led by INTERPOL with the support of the World Customs Organization (WCO) and Frontex, Neptune III involved law enforcement in five countries  Algeria, France, Italy, Spain and Tunisia  and was carried out during the summer 2021 tourist season.

In parallel to NEPTUNE III and with similar objectives, a special operation led by the WCO and called Operation TENTACLE-Mediterranea involved the Spanish Guardia Civil and the Moroccan Customs Service.

INTERPOL deployed officers to assist local authorities in screening travellers, cross-checking their data against INTERPOL and national databases. The WCO deployed two officers in Italy and France to assist local Custom services, collected information on all Customs seizures and ensured that data were effectively shared between Customs services through its secure communication platform, CENcomm. Frontex, the European Unions Border and Coast Guard Agency, deployed officers in Italy and France to assist local authorities in profiling passengers, identifying document fraud and detecting illicit activities.

Alarming results

Tens of thousands of vehicles and passengers cross international borders via maritime routes every year. Traffickers and terrorists regularly take these routes, compromising regional security across Europe and Africa. Operation Neptune III produced the following results:

Arrests : 29 individuals were arrested on charges of terrorism, drug trafficking, vehicle theft, crimes against children, sexual violence, fraud and human trafficking, among other crimes.

: 29 individuals were arrested on charges of terrorism, drug trafficking, vehicle theft, crimes against children, sexual violence, fraud and human trafficking, among other crimes. Seizures: 17.5 kg of cocaine, with an estimated street value of EUR 1.2 million; More than 20,000 ecstasy pills; 189 kg of tobacco products; Five vehicles (three luxury cars and two motorcycles); One handgun and 29 hunting rifles; Over EUR 260,000 in cash.



Sharing information to save lives

INTERPOLs databases contain details of around 135,000 individuals suspected of terrorist activity, making the Organization the largest repository of such information. Data are collected from and shared with law enforcement in INTERPOLs 194 member countries.

Operation Neptune III saw officers from participating member countries conduct systematic screenings of individuals and their passports at selected seaports and maritime operational zones.

Terrorism and organized crime are often transnational by nature, making cross-border information sharing between law enforcement agencies critical to ensuring front-line border officers can screen individuals using the most complete information available. While the screening of passengers constitutes a routine procedure, the potential consequences of border officers decisions can sometimes be a matter of life and death.

Hunting rifles bound for Tunisia

Customs administrations participating in the operation strengthened controls on passengers and their belongings, targeting especially the smuggling of currency and weapons. They shared information with each other on any seizures made during inspections of passenger baggage, vessels and vehicles.

The Tunisia Customs Service seized 29 hunting rifles that had been concealed inside a vehicle that had departed from Genoa, Italy, on a ferry bound for Zarzis, on Tunisias southeastern coast. Italian Customs and the Guardia di Finanza made numerous seizures of tobacco products, stolen electronic goods and over 2,000 items of counterfeit designer clothing, while French Customs seized 93 kg of tobacco from a single individual.

Operation Neptune was supported by funding from the INTERPOL Foundation for a Safer World and by the WCO.

Operation TENTACLE-Mediterranea

In parallel to NEPTUNE III and with similar objectives, a special operation, involving the Spanish Guardia Civil and the Moroccan Customs Service only, was organized by the WCO at the Moroccan ports of Nador and Tanger Med and at the international airports of Madrid and Barcelona.

The passenger and cargo inspections conducted by the Guardia Civil of Spain resulted in the identification of seven individuals of interest and in the seizure of jewellery from one passenger, with an estimated total value of 21,540 EUR. The Moroccan Customs Service seized more than 200,000 EUR in undeclared currency, including 96,480.00 EUR that one passenger attempted to smuggle from Morocco to Europe. The Administration also seized more than 1 kg of cocaine and 267 kg of cannabis.
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Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 09:08:45|Editor: huaxia

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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday kick-started their 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

The ASEAN summits, with the theme "We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper," is expected to discuss a number of issues including further strengthening the resilience of the ASEAN Community towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing the preparedness of ASEAN in addressing common challenges; seizing new opportunities in pursuit of shared prosperity; and maintaining cooperation towards achieving the region's long-term goals.

Scheduled for Tuesday to Thursday, the 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits and related summits will also be joined by leaders from ASEAN's dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, United States, Australia and Russia, among others.

Established in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Brunei is the ASEAN chair for 2021. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 11:45:21|Editor: huaxia

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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday kick-started its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said the ASEAN member states will take this opportunity to consider ASEAN's community building efforts in realizing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025.

He noted that ASEAN countries will also discuss other issues, including further strengthening the resilience towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and enhancing cooperation with dialogue partners.

Lim Jock Hoi, secretary general of the ASEAN, said in his greeting speech that despite the COVID-19 pandemic challenges, ASEAN's economic outlook remains resilient.

He said ASEAN's economic recovery from this pandemic will depend on a more even distribution of vaccination rollout across the region, which will ensure the continued fair and credible access to the vaccines for all people.

The ASEAN summits, with the theme "We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper," is scheduled to discuss a number of issues, including further strengthening the resilience of the ASEAN Community towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing the preparedness of the ASEAN in addressing common challenges; seizing new opportunities in pursuit of shared prosperity; and maintaining cooperation towards achieving the region's long-term goals.

Scheduled for Tuesday to Thursday, the 38th and 39th ASEAN summits and related summits will also be joined by leaders from ASEAN's dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the United States, Australia and Russia, among others.

Established in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Brunei is the ASEAN chair for 2021. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 11:57:19|Editor: huaxia

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Photo taken on Oct. 26, 2021 shows a scene of the 38th and 39th summits of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) held via virtual conference in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei. The ASEAN on Tuesday kick-started its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda. (Xinhua/Xue Fei)

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday kick-started its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said the ASEAN member states will take this opportunity to consider ASEAN's community building efforts in realizing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025.

He noted that ASEAN countries will also discuss other issues, including further strengthening the resilience towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and enhancing cooperation with dialogue partners.

Lim Jock Hoi, secretary general of the ASEAN, said in his greeting speech that despite the COVID-19 pandemic challenges, ASEAN's economic outlook remains resilient.

He said ASEAN's economic recovery from this pandemic will depend on a more even distribution of vaccination rollout across the region, which will ensure the continued fair and credible access to the vaccines for all people.

The ASEAN summits, with the theme "We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper," is scheduled to discuss a number of issues, including further strengthening the resilience of the ASEAN Community towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing the preparedness of the ASEAN in addressing common challenges; seizing new opportunities in pursuit of shared prosperity; and maintaining cooperation towards achieving the region's long-term goals.

As this year marks the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations, expectations are also high that the upcoming summits would herald a new chapter for the relationship, which has grown from strength to strength and weathered difficulties and challenges, including the pandemic.

Meanwhile, both ASEAN members and their dialogue partners hope the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a mega trade deal between 10 ASEAN member states plus China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand which was signed last November, will take effect soon to promote regional trade and investment, thus helping with the post-pandemic economic recovery in the region.

Scheduled for Tuesday to Thursday, the 38th and 39th ASEAN summits and related summits will also be joined by leaders from ASEAN's dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the United States, Australia and Russia, among others.

Established in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Brunei is the ASEAN chair for 2021. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 15:09:05|Editor: huaxia

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BEIJING, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping said Tuesday that the Chinese side stands ready to work with Papua New Guinea (PNG) to build a community with a shared future for China and Pacific island nations.

During a telephone conversation with PNG's Prime Minister James Marape, Xi noted that the country has important influence in the Pacific islands region, and China would like to join hands with PNG to maintain the general direction of bilateral friendly cooperation.

He pointed out that since the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and PNG 45 years ago, the two sides have always treated each other equally and with respect, and supported each other on issues involving their respective core interests and major concerns, maintained peace and stability in the South Pacific region, and promoted regional development and prosperity.

The relationship between China and Papua New Guinea has become a role model of peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation among countries of different sizes and different social systems, Xi said.

China firmly supports PNG in taking a development path that suits its national conditions and is willing to work with PNG to push bilateral relations to a higher level, he added.

The Chinese side is willing to continue to provide PNG with economic and technical assistance with no political conditions attached, and provide various support for PNG in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, he said.

The two sides should work together to strengthen exchanges and cooperation in areas such as poverty reduction, resource protection and utilization, and promote cooperation in the joint construction of the Belt and Road to reap more fruits, Xi noted.

Xi also said that the two sides should strengthen coordination and cooperation on international and multilateral occasions, deal with challenges such as climate change, actively carry out the Global Development Initiative, stick to true multilateralism, and safeguard international equity and justice, as well as the common interests of developing countries. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 15:24:27|Editor: huaxia

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MALE, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Over 100,000 tourists have visited the Maldives in the month of October, the state-owned PSM News citing data from the Ministry of Tourism reported here Tuesday.

Tourism ministry data showed that 102,434 tourists visited the Maldives from Oct. 1 to 24, a 599 percent increase from the same period in 2020 but a 2 percent decrease compared to 2019.

The Maldives has recorded a total of 973,269 tourist arrivals so far this year, or a daily average of 4,454.

According to the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), the country will this year cross the mark of a million tourist arrivals by the end of October.

India and Russia were the biggest sources of tourist arrivals for the Maldives, accounting for 23 percent and 19 percent of all arrivals, respectively. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 17:07:34|Editor: huaxia

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COLOMBO. Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The China International Import Expo (CIIE) provides Sri Lankan tea exporters with an opportunity to enter the Chinese market while encouraging producers to step up quality, Sri Lankan business leaders have said.

In an exclusive interview to Xinhua, CEO of Dilmah Tea Dilhan Fernando said that the CIIE was very helpful for tea companies like Dilmah because it provided opportunities to learn about Chinese consumer preferences.

"One thing we learned from several previous participations at CIIE was to respect the Chinese tea culture while finding ways to differentiate ourselves. So we pitch Ceylon tea as being fundamentally different and not a substitute for Chinese tea," Fernando explained.

Fernando said that young Chinese consumers are adventurous and willing to try new products, Sri Lankan tea producers would therefore educate Chinese consumers on the proper way to prepare and enjoy Ceylon tea.

Kosala Wickramanayake, president of the International Business Council in Sri Lanka, said that even though China's tea culture spans thousands of years, Chinese consumers are not familiar with English-style tea culture which is prevalent in Sri Lanka and other Ceylon tea drinking countries.

"We must study the Chinese way of serving tea and adapt it to suit the particular qualities of Ceylon tea. Chinese people like to talk about the qualities of tea and are interested in details including even the history of a particular tea bush," he said.

Wickramanayake said that the CIIE could therefore incentivize Sri Lankan tea exporters to increase product specialization and value addition in order to adapt to the conditions of the China market.

This year will be the fourth time for Sri Lanka to participate in the CIIE.

Tea made up 12 percent of Sri Lanka's export revenue in 2020 and China was the country's fifth-largest tea export destination. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 21:08:33|Editor: huaxia

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BANGKOK, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Thailand's exports continued the expansion streak for the seventh month in a row, rising 17.1 percent year on year in September, amid continuous recovery of global demand, official data showed Tuesday.

The strong export growth was led by the rising shipment of agricultural and agro-industrial products, as well as manufacturing products, which was also lifted by a weakening Thai baht that has increased the competitiveness of Thailand's goods in the global market, according to the Ministry of Commerce.

The Southeast Asian country's imports climbed 30.3 percent from one year earlier last month, leading to a trade surplus of 609.84 million U.S. dollars, the ministry data showed.

In the first nine months of the year, the country's exports rose 15.5 percent year on year, while that of imports surged 30.9 percent compared with one year earlier. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 21:36:29|Editor: huaxia

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BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to upholding regionalism and multilateralism on the occasion of the 38th ASEAN Summit.

According to the "ASEAN Leaders' Declaration on Upholding Multilateralism," the 10 member countries believed that regionalism and multilateralism are important principles and frameworks of cooperation, and that their strength and value lie in their rules-based nature, inclusivity, transparency and openness, based on mutual benefit and respect.

The leaders further recognized "the interconnectedness and vulnerabilities brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has reaffirmed the critical importance of staying united in our shared community and the urgent need to have a coherent, people-centered, multi-sectoral, multi-stakeholder and whole-of-ASEAN community approach in ensuring ASEAN's timely and effective response to any global and regional threats and crises."

They reiterated the need for ASEAN to remain united, cohesive, and resilient in promoting its purposes and principles as enshrined in the ASEAN Charter and the commitment to support multilateralism founded on the principles stipulated in the Charter of the United Nations and on the basis of international law, which is the indispensable foundation of a more peaceful, prosperous and just world.

They also emphasized a committed multilateral approach in responding to emerging opportunities and challenges and actively shaping a rules-based regional architecture that is capable of tackling pressing regional and global issues.

The leaders also stressed ASEAN's centrality and unity in its constructive engagement with external partners through ASEAN-led mechanisms.

The ASEAN leaders also issued a declaration on blue economy after Tuesday's summit, noting that the ocean and seas are key drivers of economic growth and innovation, while taking into account the need to ensure ocean sustainability and rules-based ocean governance.

The leaders welcomed ASEAN's external partners to support ASEAN's development of blue economy, with ASEAN as the driving force.

ASEAN on Tuesday kicked off its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via video conferencing, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

Scheduled from Tuesday to Thursday, the 38th and 39th summits and related summits will also be joined by ASEAN's dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the United States, Australia and Russia, among others.

Established in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Brunei is the ASEAN chair for 2021. Enditem
Source: Xinhua| 2021-10-26 22:39:59|Editor: huaxia

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MANILA, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Philippines and South Korea concluded their free trade agreement (FTA) negotiations on Tuesday, the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said.

In a statement, the DTI said Philippine Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez and South Korean Trade Minister Yeo Han-Koo signed and issued a joint statement announcing the conclusion of the FTA negotiations between the two countries.

The announcement came ahead of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-South Korea summit held Tuesday.

The 38th and 39th ASEAN summits and related summits kick-started on Tuesday under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

"The FTA will help contribute to the economic recovery efforts of the Philippines and South Korea," the statement said, adding that the FTA paves the way for "a wider economic cooperation" between the two countries.

The Philippines-South Korea FTA talks started in June 2019. The Philippine trade secretary said the FTA, once enforced, "will be an important vehicle for enhancing trade flows, and generating more investment and employment opportunities in the process." Enditem
Blog

The coup in Sudan shows that the military members of the transitional government were never truly committed to implementing democracy in the manner sought by protesters who forced Omar al-Bashir from power in 2019.

Monday's coup in Sudan represents an attempt by forces who were never interested reform or democracy to derail the country's transition and protect their own interests at the expense of the rest of the country. No amount of misleading rhetoric or manipulated shows of support can disguise this agenda. But Sudan's people have forced the hand of these self-serving securocrats before, and with strong and committed international support, they could severely constrain the options of the those responsible for dissolving the transitional government and arresting civilian leaders, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok.

While General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan claims that "the Armed Forces will continue completing the democratic transition," his actions and those of the military leadership reveal the undeniable reality--they will forcefully resist any attempt to finish the work of the revolution, reform the security services, and establish real lines of accountability between the people and their leaders. It is no accident that the agreed-upon transfer of Sovereign Council leadership from military to civilian leadership was postponed once and then averted by today's coup, or that efforts to retrieve stolen assets and unwind illicit deals have been a flashpoint for tension. These senior security officials have consistently worked to manipulate transitional arrangements to avoid losing their privileged status, which entails not just access to political power, but also to lucrative economic opportunities, and to freedom from accountability. They have no intention of allowing an election to occur unless they have complete control of the playing field, and they have found support among actors who were brought into the transitional government through peace deals but are unlikely to retain power if citizens are permitted to choose their own leaders.

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The military's disingenuous justifications are particularly galling in light of the hundreds of thousands of pro-democracy protesters who poured into the streets last week, defying attempts to paint a picture of mass popular support for military rule. The pro-democracy coalition, which is vast and diverse, should expect continued efforts to compromise and divide them; this is a familiar playbook in Sudan.

The United States has been warning military leaders against exactly the type of action they took today, making it plain that support for Sudan's ailing economy is contingent on fidelity to the transitional agreement between military and civilian leaders, and it has been heartening to see strong Congressional statements buttressing this message. The Biden administration should go further, working at the highest levels to ensure as much multilateral solidarity as possible in opposition to the military power-grab, and signaling to Egypt and Gulf powers that support for the coup plotters will have concrete costs. External powers cannot control events on the ground in Sudan. But they can constrain the options of those who would hijack the Sudanese revolution to protect their own status and wealth.

This publication is part of the Diamonstein-Spielvogel Project on the Future of Democracy.
An estimated two hundred people have died and 600,000 have been displaced due to floods in Nigeria this year.

analysis

One of the most prevalent natural disasters in Nigeria is perennial flooding. Some states are increasingly experiencing annual flooding during the rainy season.

Increasingly, a link is being made between increasing flood incidences and climate change.

Unlike some natural disasters, rainfall flooding can be controlled with proper planning and provision of necessary infrastructure. Nigeria's flooding is mainly human induced with poor urban planning practices and inadequate environmental infrastructure being contributing factors.

In 2012, Nigeria experienced its worst flooding recorded in recent history. Total losses were put at US$16.9 billion.

The extent and nature of Nigeria's flooding are such that the actual figures for displacements, losses and fatalities cannot be truly ascertained due to poor records and reporting.

But flooding threatens sustainability because it negatively affects the economy, health, social life and environment. Flooding constitutes a threat to Nigeria achieving the global sustainable development goals.

My recent paper highlights why. As part of my PhD research, I study flooding within the context of sustainable development, environmental justice and flood risk management.

The sustainable development goals are global goals for achieving environmental and human development by 2030. Of the 17 development goals, nine are directly affected by flooding. These include eradicating poverty and hunger as well as providing clean water and sanitation.

In the case of Nigeria, flooding has had a major impact on the country's development goals in relation to the social, economic and environmental targets.

Drivers of flooding in Nigeria

Nigeria's flooding is mostly human induced and exacerbated by human-nature interactions. Poor or non-existent drainage systems are a major cause of flooding.

Many residential areas have no drainage system and rely on natural drainage channels. Increasing urbanisation also means more areas are built with concrete and cannot absorb water, increasing runoff.

Poor waste management is another recognised factor. Citizens' poor attitude to waste disposal and non-provision of waste disposal services by municipal authorities contributes to flooding. It is not uncommon to have drains blocked by refuse in urban areas.

Other factors are unregulated urban expansion - Nigeria is experiencing high urbanisation rates without commensurate provision of urban infrastructure and amenities. Agricultural lands are increasingly being converted to residential areas to accommodate housing needs.

But there's lax implementation of planning laws. One consequence of this is the there have been construction projects on natural floodplains and storm water paths. This has exacerbated flooding.

Corruption is also a factor. It is not uncommon for town planning officials to accept bribes and overlook issues. These may include unauthorised use of land and alteration of approved construction plans.

Some citizens also capitalise on the loophole of ineffective development control and extend their buildings over the approved areas. Sometimes they go as far as building over drains.

What needs to be done

Nigeria's president Muhammadu Buhari recently blamed flooding for the rising food insecurity in the country.

But what is missing is appropriate action to mitigate the flooding. Currently, there is no flood management policy in Nigeria. The lack of relevant legal and policy frameworks is an indication of the low importance given to controlling and managing flooding in Nigeria.

Integration of flood risk management with spatial planning is the way to go.

Historically, Nigeria has been more focused on post-disaster flood response than control. Reducing and addressing exposure to flood risk is now a national priority in the Nigerian government's disaster risk management agenda.

However, nothing concrete has been achieved. This is not encouraging despite the comprehensive post-disaster needs assessment conducted in 2012 by the federal government with international collaboration.

This raises questions on the political will to achieve this goal.

The government is not lacking research institutions and agencies with the skills to design a flood risk management strategy. For instance, the National Emergency Management Agency has a department of planning utilising geographical information system to work on flood data. Still, there are no effective national early warning system in place for floods at the federal, state, and local governments.

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The Nigerian Meteorological Agency, on its part provides seasonal rainfall predictions, but communication remains a problem. Integration and coordination are lacking among the existing government bodies who sometimes carry out flood control projects without liaising with each other.

Sustainable urban planning and green infrastructure could also be combined with information and communication technology tools. Citizens can use these to communicate with the relevant authorities at the onset of flooding.

Addressing Nigeria's perennial flooding is important for the country to make progress. The human-induced causes of flooding should be addressed urgently. Not doing this will delay its journey to sustainable development.

Adaku Jane Echendu, Graduate Teaching Assistant, Queen's University, Ontario
analysis

The Nigerian government recently threatened to declare a state of emergency in Anambra, a state in the south-east of the country, because of rising insecurity. This generated heated debate about the legitimacy of declaring a state of emergency. The Conversation Africa's Ogechi Ekeanyanwu asked political science lecturer Uchenna Simeon to explain the circumstances under which a state of emergency can be declared.

What are the criteria for declaring a state of emergency?

The conditions are set out in Nigeria's 1999 constitution. A state of emergency can be declared when:

Nigeria is at war

the country is in imminent danger of invasion or involvement in a state of war

there is a breakdown of public order and public safety in any part of the country

there is a clear and present danger of an actual breakdown of public order and public safety

there is an occurrence or imminent danger of the occurrence of any disaster or natural calamity

there is any danger which clearly constitutes a threat to the existence of Nigeria

The last is when the president receives a request to declare a state of emergency from a state governor. The president can also make the decision in a situation in which the governor of the state fails within a reasonable time to make a request.

The constitutional powers to declare a state of emergency rests with the president. The president has the power to proclaim a state of emergency in any part of Nigeria by publishing the order in the official government gazette. The proclamation must be ratified by the National Assembly made up of the Senate and House of Representatives.

A resolution must also be passed by two-thirds of the members of both houses.

Does the situation in Anambra State warrant such a declaration?

No. The security challenges in Anambra State over the past weeks do not in any way qualify for the proclamation of a state of emergency. The isolated cases of arson, killings and destruction of public and private properties do not threaten the survival or national security of Nigeria.

Nigeria ratified the Siracusa Principles. This is an internationally recognised set of rules which set out limits to restrictions on rights during emergencies. One of the general principles is that any decision about an emergency must be done in good faith. It must also be done on the basis of an objective assessment of the situation.

The principles state:

National security cannot be invoked as a reason for imposing limitations to prevent merely local or relatively isolated threats to law and order.

The situation in Anambra State can be described as "merely local or relatively isolated threats to law and order".

What additional powers does a state of emergency give to the government?

Normally, the official gazette will specify the extent and scope of the emergency powers. The following additional powers can be exercised under emergency rule:

massive deployment of the armed forces to take charge of security in place of the policy

invasion of people's privacy (including homes and offices). Searches can be conducted without a warrant

suspects can be arrested and detained without being charged

special laws can be enacted to punish those who flout the emergency rules

quasi-judicial bodies can be set up to try offenders

rights to lawful assembly and freedom of expression and communication can be restricted

the Nigerian government can decide to take over the executive and legislative functions of the affected state

destruction and confiscation of private property without compensation to the victims

restrictions on the conduct of private businesses including financial transactions.

Under emergency rule, the government enjoys wide powers which infringe on human rights and fundamental freedoms. The Siracusa Principles limit which rights can be infringed. During the enforcement of emergency rule, however, these principles might not be adhered to.

What are the dangers of declaring a state of emergency?

The government can abuse the emergency powers. In fact, dictators around the world abuse emergency rule. They impose restrictions on people's rights and freedoms.

It can also lead to temporary suspension of the democratic order and pave the way for the ascendancy of anti-democratic forces. Nigeria runs a federal system - a situation where the federating units are expected to enjoy autonomy. But the country's federal system is deeply flawed with power and resources inordinately in control of the central government.

In this situation, a state of emergency can deepen the unitary structure. The federal government can use the power at its disposal to encroach on the powers vested in the states by the Nigerian constitution. The possibility of federal government taking over the affairs of the state explains why no state governor has ever requested the president to proclaim a state of emergency in their state.

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So what should happen?

A state of emergency is not an aberration. It is a normal political instrument that can be used under extraordinary circumstances that threaten the survival and national security of Nigeria. It is, however, subject to abuse. This is particularly true in Nigeria where the role of the legislature and judiciary are constantly undermined and influenced by the executive.

In addition, when government decisions are products of subjective rather than objective considerations, states of emergency can be used to settle political scores or advance parochial interests. This is the case in Nigeria quite often.

Lastly, a state of emergency can be abused unless both the legislature and judiciary can assert their independence in practice, and rule of law is made the cardinal principle of governance.

Uchenna Simeon, Lecturer, Political Science, Federal University Lafia
Sudan's top general declared a state of emergency, dissolved the authorities leading country's democratic transition, and announced the formation of a new government after soldiers detained civilian leaders Monday in what activists denounced as a "coup".

General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's announcement in a televised address came after armed forces detained figures of the government in charge of leading the transition to democracy since the April 2019 ouster of autocratic president Omar al-Bashir.

"To rectify the revolution's course, we have decided to declare a state of emergency nationwide... dissolve the transitional sovereign council, and dissolve the cabinet," Burhan said.

His statement came as clashes erupted in the capital Khartoum, with soldiers firing live rounds at people who took to the streets to protest against the power grab.

The violence was largely centred outside the army headquarters in the capital hours after soldiers detained Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, ministers in his government and civilian members of Sudan's ruling council, the information ministry said.

Internet services were cut across the country around dawn and the main roads and bridges into Khartoum shut, before soldiers stormed the headquarters of Sudan's state broadcaster in the capital's twin city of Omdurman, the ministry said.

"Military forces have fired live bullets on protesters rejecting the military coup outside the army headquarters," the information ministry said.

Around a dozen people have so far been wounded in the clashes, according to the Central Committee of Sudan Doctors, an independent medics union.

Power grab

The power grab, which comes after weeks of tensions between the military and civilian figures sharing power since Bashir's ouster, was condemned by the international community.

The European Union called for the release of the civilian leadership and insisted "violence and bloodshed must be avoided".

"The EU is very concerned about Sudan's military forces reportedly putting Prime Minister Hamdok under house arrest, as well as detaining other members of the civilian leadership, and we urge for their fast release," said European Commission spokeswoman Nabila Massrali.

America's Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman said "the US is deeply alarmed at reports of a military takeover of the transitional government".

"Any changes to the transitional government by force puts at risk US assistance," he said on Twitter.

International reaction

The UN described the detentions as "unacceptable".

"I call on the security forces to immediately release those who have been unlawfully detained or placed under house arrest," said Volker Perthes, its special representative to Sudan.

Germany condemned the reports, calling for an "immediate end" to the action.

African Union Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat on Monday called for the "immediate resumption" of dialogue between Sudan's military and civilians, while the Arab League urged all sides to adhere to an August 2019 power-sharing deal.

The Sudanese Professionals Association, an umbrella group of trade unions which were key in leading the 2019 anti-Bashir protests, denounced what it called a "military coup" and urged demonstrators "to fiercely resist" it.

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Bashir, who ruled Sudan with an iron fist for three decades, is behind bars in Khartoum's high security Kober prison.

The ex-president is wanted by the International Criminal Court over charges of genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity in Sudan's Darfur region.

Split opposition

Since August 2019, Sudan has been led by a civilian-military administration tasked with overseeing the transition to full civilian rule.

Sudan military and civilian leaders sign historic power-sharing deal

But the main civilian bloc -- the Forces for Freedom and Change -- which led the anti-Bashir protests in 2019, has splintered into two opposing factions.

Tensions between the two sides have long simmered, but divisions ratcheted up after a failed coup on September 21 this year.

(with AFP)
UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres on Monday condemned the "ongoing military coup" in Sudan, saying Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and all other officials, "must be released immediately."

Long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was overthrown by the military following months of popular protest in April 2019, and a transitional government was set up comprising both military and civilian leadership, after a power-sharing agreement, that was due to lead to full democratic elections in 2023.

Now, according to news agencies, Sudan's military has dissolved civilian rule, arrested political leaders and declared a state of emergency. Protesters have reportedly taken to the streets of the capital, Khartoum, and there are reports of gunfire.

In a statement posted on Twitter, the Secretary-General said that "there must be full respect for the constitutional charter to protect the hard-won political transition."

"The UN will continue to stand with the people of Sudan", Mr. Guterres assured.

Progress in jeopardy

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights also condemned the attempted coup.

"These actions threaten the Juba Peace Agreement and jeopardize the important progress made towards democracy and respect for human rights", Michelle Bachelet said.

She called on military authorities to abide by the constitutional order and international law, withdraw from the streets, and resolve any differences with civilian leaders serving on the Transitional Council through dialogue and negotiation.

"I utterly deplore the reported arrest of the Prime Minister, several Ministers, leaders of the Forces of the Freedom and Change and other civil society representatives, and call for their immediate release", she continued.

Communication systems down

Ms. Bachelet also pointed out reports that the internet is down in the country and other means of communication are suspended.

"Blanket internet shutdowns contravene international law, and Internet and mobile services must be restored, as they are essential for people to seek and receive information, particularly in these unsettling circumstances", she explained.

She asked military and security forces to refrain from unnecessary and disproportionate use of force, to respect people's freedom of expression, as well as the right of peaceful assembly.

According to her, "it would be disastrous if Sudan goes backwards after finally bringing an end to decades of repressive dictatorship."

"The country needs to move forward to consolidate democracy, a wish expressed countless times by the Sudanese people, including loudly and clearly on the streets last week and today", she added.

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UN Mission

The head of the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission Sudan (UNITAMS), also released a statement, declaring that the arrests of the Prime Minister, government officials and other politicians are "unacceptable."

"I call on the security forces to immediately release those who have been unlawfully detained or placed under house arrest", Volker Perthes said. "It is the responsibility of these forces to ensure the security and wellbeing of people in their custody."

The UNITAMS chief, who acts as a Special Representative of the Secretary-General, also urged everyone involved to exercise the utmost restraint.

"All parties must immediately return to dialogue and engage in good faith to restore the constitutional order", Mr. Perthes concluded.

More to come on this breaking news story...
document

The text of the following statement was released by the Troika: Governments of the United States of America, the United Kingdom, and Norway.

The Troika is deeply concerned about the situation in Sudan and condemns the suspension of the institutions of state, the declaration of state of emergency, and the military forces detaining Prime Minister Hamdok as well as other members of the civilian leadership. We call on the security forces to immediately release those they have unlawfully detained. The actions of the military represent a betrayal of the revolution, the transition, and the legitimate requests of the Sudanese people for peace, justice and economic development.

The rights of freedom of expression and peaceful assembly must be respected; violence and bloodshed must be avoided; and communication networks must be restored.

The Troika will continue to support those working for a democratic Sudan with a fully legitimate civilian government. This remains the best guarantee for the long-term stability of the country and the broader region. We reject this attempt to derail the transition toward democratic elections and call for the immediate restoration of the civilian-led government on the basis of the Constitutional Declaration and other foundational documents of the transition.
press release

"The human rights violations today amount to a betrayal of the hopes and sacrifices of hundreds of thousands of Sudanese people" - Deprose Muchena

The Sudanese military leaders must immediately and unconditionally release Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and all others who were arbitrarily detained this morning, Amnesty International said.

At least seven other civilian government leaders are reportedly in detention. Military leaders have also restricted access to the internet and imposed a state of emergency.

Deprose Muchena, Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, said:

"The arbitrary detentions and human rights violations today amount to a betrayal of the hopes and sacrifices of hundreds of thousands of Sudanese people. Political differences must be resolved with recourse to human rights, not through high-handed and abusive military means.

"We call on the military leaders, led by General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, to adhere to Sudan's human rights obligations. This includes ensuring protection of the right to life and ensuring that the peaceful protesters now massing in response to today's events can demonstrate unhindered and unharmed. We also call on the authorities to restore full access to the internet, to facilitate freedom of information, association and peaceful assembly."
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres has called for the "immediate" release of Sudan's detained leaders following an apparent military coup.

"There must be full respect for the constitutional charter to protect the hard-won political transition," Guterres wrote on Twitter, referencing the landmark power-sharing agreement that Sudan's military and civilian leaders signed in 2019 after months of deadly protests.

His remarks came as military forces Monday arrested Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other officials. Lt. General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan also declared a state of emergency and announced the dissolution of a joint civilian-military council, known as the Sovereign Council, that has run the country for the past two years.

In a lengthier statement issued through a spokesperson, U.N chief Guterres said, "Sudanese stakeholders must immediately return to dialogue, and engage in good faith to restore the constitutional order and Sudan's transitional process."

White House deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, speaking on Air Force One, said the United States is deeply alarmed at the reports of the military takeover.

"We reject the actions by the military and call for the immediate release of the prime minister and others who have been placed under house arrest. The actions today are in stark opposition to the will of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace, liberty and justice," she said.

"The United States continues to strongly support the Sudanese people's demand for a democratic transition in Sudan and will continue to evaluate how best to help the Sudanese people achieve this goal," Jean-Pierre added.

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The Sudanese Professionals Association, a group consisting of trade unions, called on the public Monday to occupy the streets to protect the transitional government. The association was instrumental in organizing protests that led to the 2019 deal.

Separately, the Arab League and Egypt echoed remarks calling for political agreements to be upheld, as did the African Union.

"The Chairperson calls for the immediate resumption of consultations between civilians and military ... The Chairperson reaffirms that dialogue and consensus is the only relevant path to save the country and its democratic transition," African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat said in a statement.

Detained Prime Minister Hamdok, an economist and diplomat who has worked for the U.N., was named the transitional prime minister in August 2019. The interim government took power following the ouster of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir, who was arrested during widespread street protests. The country is preparing for elections late next year and, under the constitution, Hamdok is forbidden from running.
analysis

Washington  Monday's military coup in Sudan crippled the nation's leadership and could have sweeping regional implications, including inflaming already bitter disputes among Sudan's neighbors, analysts say.

"I would say key in today's considerations really are questions of the ongoing conflict between Egypt and Ethiopia and Sudan over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam," said Jonas Horner, a senior analyst and Sudan expert at the International Crisis Group.

The longstanding dispute over Ethiopia's hydroelectric dam stems from Ethiopia's insistence on building and filling the dam to help alleviate poverty in the country, and Egypt and Sudan's opposition to it, Horner said.

Egypt favors military rule in Sudan, while Ethiopia will likely back a civilian transition in hopes that the potential for improved relations will move the needle on the dam, Horner told VOA.

"Egypt is very keen to see a military dispensation in Sudan because they believe that they will take care of their interests best when it comes to representing Egyptian concerns over the dam," Horner said.

The coup in Sudan could also affect Ethiopia's ongoing crisis in the Tigray region, which is spreading and has seen a recent escalation. The Ethiopian government may have cause to worry if the Sudan military remains in power, Horner said.

"The concern is that the military, if it is indeed in the ascendancy and there is no mediation from civilians, that they will more robustly perhaps support the Tigrayans as they fight against the central government in Addis Ababa," he said.

The United Nations and the African Union condemned the military takeover. The Norwegian Refugee Council issued a statement Monday appealing to Sudan's rulers to protect civilians and keep commitments to allow humanitarian aid to reach millions of people affected by war.

Monday's military takeover was triggered by a fear that the military was losing control over Sudan's Sovereign Council as the deadline for transfer to civilian rule was approaching, analysts said.

Khartoum was in political and social chaos after Sudan's military chief, Lieutenant General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, declared a state of emergency and dissolved the joint civilian-military council that has run the country for the past two years.

Protesters took to the streets, derisively chanting Burhan's name and singing Sudan's national anthem.

Medical sources say dozens of people have been injured in the protests, and at least seven people died in clashes with security forces in Khartoum amid an internet and telecommunications shutdown.

With Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other officials of the ruling Sovereign Council in detention, the future of the nation's leadership is in turmoil.

"I think the thing that the military was most fearful of losing (was) control of the Sovereignty Council -- the executive authority in the country," said Cameron Hudson, a senior fellow at the U.S.-based Atlantic Council's Africa Center.

Internal pressure from hundreds of thousands of protesters who came out from different towns across Sudan in recent weeks demanding civilian rule made Sudan's top military leader feel "under siege," Hudson said.

"This is a reaction internally to release the pressure that they were feeling," Hudson told VOA.

The coup seems to have the backing of the Sudan Armed Forces and a paramilitary group known as the Rapid Support Forces under General Mohamed Hamdan Dagalo, some analysts said.

But Hudson warned that the army might be divided on this.

"What we don't know and what we should be fearful of is there are divisions within the military, especially in the younger ranks, the lower ranks of the military," he said. "We should not be surprised if we see a counter coup of some kind of younger military officers who push back against what happened."

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The military takeover looks hurried and poorly planned, according to Hudson, and may have dangerous consequences, including street violence, which escalated Monday.

"It's a very dangerous situation, because you have the military trying to assert its control, and now you have people taking to the streets in protest," he said.

Sudan's neighbors are watching closely, possibly fearing a spillover effect, Horner said.

"There are plenty of autocratic governments that are in Sudan's immediate neighborhood and then even across the Red Sea and elsewhere, too, who will concern themselves with what inspiring effect a successful civilian transition might have to their own populations," he said.

VOA's Kathleen Dawson contributed to this report.
Military fighter jets deployed for Operation Hadin Kai destroyed 20 boats carrying over 100 Boko Haram Terrorists/Islamic State West African Province (ISWAP) in the Lake Chad region at the weekend.

The air component of OPHK following credible intelligence on October 20, 2021 said about 20 boats with suspected Boko Haram /ISWAP terrorists were converging for a meeting on an Island in the Tumbuns on the Lake Chad and at Malam Fatori, deployed three NAF aircraft to carry out strikes.

The NAF director, public relations and information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet said overhead the targets, the pilots observed a gathering of about 20 boats consisting of five to seven suspected terrorists in each boat.

"Using a mix of bombs and rockets, the three aircraft carried out series of strikes and scored devastating hits on the targets leaving some survivors scrambling for their lives," he said.

He added that the operation by the air component of Operation Hadin Kai yet again confirmed the high concentration of terrorists and insurgent elements hibernating in the Lake Chad general area.

He said the air component working alongside the army and naval components as well as other security agencies would continue to sustain its operations until the area is rid of all terrorists and insurgents.
Khartoum, Sudan / Washington  Sudanese protesters demonstrated into the night Monday after the military seized power in an apparent coup.

Security forces opened fire on protesters earlier Monday, killing three demonstrators, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee. The group said at least 80 people have been injured.

Sudan's military chief, General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, declared a nationwide state of emergency Monday and announced the end of a joint civilian-military council that ran the country for the past two years.

The general made a televised address after military forces arrested Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other officials of the Sovereign Council.

Burhan said he dissolved the council and the government due to "political quarrels that were threatening the security of the country" and announced that a "new government of technocrats will soon be appointed."

Journalist Michael Atit, who is in the Sudanese capital, told VOA's South Sudan in Focus that thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Khartoum following reports of Hamdok's arrest. Atit reported hearing gunfire and seeing tires burned in the streets.

Atit said most telecommunications in Khartoum have shut down, including the internet and radio stations. Only a state-owned television station was on the air, broadcasting patriotic music.

U.N. Special Representative for Sudan, Volker Perthes, said the military "took control of Khartoum, closing the entrances and the bridges, and closing down the airport and also taking control of state TV."

He briefed reporters in New York virtually from Khartoum, saying that as night fell in the city, he could see from his location barricades still burning and could hear occasional gunshots. He described the situation as "fluid."

The events were a sharp turnaround from what many had hoped would be a transition toward a civilian-led, democratic government in Sudan, where former President Omar al-Bashir ruled with an iron fist during 30 years of rule that ended with his ouster by the military in April 2019.

"Those in support of a military takeover will argue that this is a 'correcting' of the path of the revolution, but I think many who have had their hearts set on a transfer of power to a full civilian rule will see this definitely as a setback," said Isma'il Kushkush, an independent journalist and former East Africa reporter for The New York Times.

"I see this as a setback for the transition into a democracy," Kushkush told VOA.

Hamdok, an economist and diplomat who has worked for the U.N., was named the country's transitional prime minister in August 2019. The transition won strong support from Western countries, including the United States, which removed Sudan from its state sponsors of terrorism list.

But Hamdok faced stiff resistance from elements of Sudan's military. On September 21, forces still loyal to al-Bashir used tanks to block a key bridge and attempted to seize power. The coup was put down, and dozens of soldiers were arrested.

U.S. embassy, AU Commission react

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the African Union, and the Arab League were among those expressing alarm and dismay Monday at the latest events in Sudan and called for the country to stay on a path toward civilian rule.

The White House said it was "alarmed" by the developments, while the U.S. State Department said it was suspending $700 million in financial assistance to the country.

"In light of these developments, the United States is pausing assistance from the $700 million in emergency assistance appropriations of economic support funds for Sudan," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.

"We reject the actions by the military and call for the immediate release of the prime minister and others who have been placed under house arrest. The actions today are in stark opposition to the will of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace, liberty and justice," said principal deputy White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum warned Americans in the city to shelter in place.

The U.N. Security Council is set to meet Tuesday to discuss the situation.

Last week, thousands of protesters took to the streets to voice concern about the prospect of a return to military rule.

"This country is ours, and our government is civilian," protesters chanted.

'Major blow' to democracy in Sudan

The Sudanese Professionals Association, an organization made up of trade unions instrumental in organizing the protests, called on the public Monday to go out and occupy the streets to protect the transitional government.

"It is a major blow to the democratic experiment in Sudan," said Cameron Hudson, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Africa Center, an expert on Sudan and a former White House Africa director.

The apparent coup comes a day after U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman concluded two days of meetings in Sudan to underscore U.S. support for Sudanese democracy.

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Hudson said Feltman received assurances from military leaders that they were committed to the work of the transitional government.

"The U.S. has invested more diplomatically in Sudan than almost anywhere else in the world in trying to prove that countries can move from autocracy to democracy," Hudson told VOA. "This is a setback to transitions in Chad, Mali and Guinea where the stakes are high, but which had not received nearly as much U.S. diplomatic attention as Sudan."

Kushkush said there had been other attempts at military intervention leading up to the coup Monday. However, despite earlier coup attempts and support for a military takeover, Kushkush said, there were also thousands of Sudanese in several cities and throughout the diaspora voicing support of the democratization process.

"From Day One of [the ousting of] al-Bashir, the greatest fear that many Sudanese had was that the fate of the Sudanese revolution will be similar to that of the similar uprisings in the region and perhaps that the greatest fear is unfolding as we speak," Kushkush said.

U.N. correspondent Margaret Besheer, Michael Atit of VOA English to Africa's South Sudan in Focus radio program, and Salem Solomon contributed to this report. Some information in this report also came from Agence-France Presse.
Khartoum  At least four people were killed, and 80 injured, as Sudanese military forces fired tear gas and live ammunition at civilians today. Tens of thousands of Sudanese answered a call by the Sudanese Professionals Association and the Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC) - the main civilian drivers of the revolution that overthrew the 30-year Al Bashir dictatorship in 2019 - to take to the streets in a mass campaign of civil disobedience and deny any cooperation to the military coup.

The streets in Khartoum and a number of cities across Sudan including El Gezira, were filled with tens of thousands of protesters rejecting the coup. The Sudan Central Doctors Committee and medical sources say that at least four people have been killed and more than 80 injured when tear gas and live ammunition was used against civilians. The doctors say that some of the demonstrators have critical injuries that required surgery.

A large number of demonstrators gathered in front of the Sudanese Parliament in parliament in Omdurman, and protesters continued to cross the bridges from Bahri and Omdurman to Khartoum, which had been blocked to vehicles, on foot, to participate in the rally in front of the General Command of the armed forces in central Khartoum.

Witnesses told Radio Dabanga that a large number of vehicles carrying military forces pursued the demonstrators and tried to remove barricades erected by protestors. Video footage showed military attacks on civilians in various neighbourhoods.

Coup

The head of Sudan's Transitional Sovereignty Council, Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan, has declared a State of Emergency in the country after the military seized power in a dawn coup in Khartoum today. Minister Abdallah Hamdok, as well as several civilian members of the Sovereignty Council have been placed under arrest and all organs of civilian government have been suspended.
About 18 worshipers have been killed by armed gunmen in Mashegu town of Mashegu local government area of Niger state.

The gunmen reportedly rounded up the worshipers who assembled for the 5.30am prayer on Monday killing them in cold blood.

The attackers who stormed the mosque shot sporadically at their victims, leaving several of them injured.

It was gathered that the armed men raided the community riding on motorcycles and wielding AK47 rifles and other dangerous weapons and in the process several of the worshipers and villagers managed to escape into the bush.

An eyewitness claimed that the death toll from the attack could be over 18 because the whereabouts of many people had not been known to enable them know if they were alive or dead.

However the eyewitness said he and others counted 18 corpses.

When contacted, the Niger State Police Commissioner Mr Monday Bala Kuyars confirmed the incident, which he described as sad and unfortunate.

Kuyars told THISDAY that he had not received details of the incident but added that the number of casualties cannot be up to the figure being claimed.

He said reinforcement of armed security men had been dispatched to the area to restore law and order.
Blog

"A child that doesn't feed well cannot learn well". Isaac Success, Dreams from the Slum.

Isaac Success is the founder of Dreams from the Slum, a community-based organisation operating out of Ajegunle in Lagos State. Success went to school without food and his experience inspired him to add a school feeding program to the tuition-free school supported by his organisation in the community. "I understand how it feels. Sometimes we think that some kids are dull. They are not dull, but can't learn without food," he said.

Poor nutrition in children is a global problem that affects Nigeria. Additionally, Nigeria struggles with poor school attendance, with an estimated 10.5 million of the country's children aged 5-14 years out-of-school. Insecurity and attacks on educational institutions, especially in northern Nigeria are possible causes, but lack of access to good nutrition is also a contributing factor. Some children are unable to attend school because they have no access to a meal or cannot get all the meals required in a day for their healthy growth. Some of them are forced to do odd jobs to earn just one meal.

School feeding programs to the rescue

There are many strategies to combating poor nutrition in children such as infant and young child feeding (IYCF) interventions, micronutrient supplementation and in situations where children become acutely malnourished, Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM). The school feeding strategy is however unique as the benefits are two-sided -- it addresses malnutrition while encouraging school attendance and good education outcomes. Both are important for a country's development.

School Feeding programs are a global practice. The National Food Lunch Program in the United States for instance served over 4.8 billion lunches to children nationwide. The Ghana School Feeding Programme aims to reduce hunger and malnutrition, increase school enrolment, attendance and retention, and boost domestic food production in deprived communities in the country. The Kenyan government started a national home-grown school feeding programme to provide meals to children at school in 2009. This helped support academic achievements as well as stimulate local agricultural production through purchase of food from smallholder farmers and local food suppliers. As of 2016, the programme, with support from the World Food Programme, has provided hot lunches, every day of the school term to 1.5 million school children across the country. South Africa has the National School Nutrition Programme initiated by the government. The objective is to provide nutritious meals to children in primary and secondary schools in poor communities to improve their ability to learn.

In Nigeria, the TY Danjuma Foundation has supported local organisations to design and implement similar programs. The federal government's home-grown school feeding program (HGSFP) that started as a social investment intervention also set out to achieve similar objectives. It is now managed under the aegis of the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development.

Success' program employs a different approach. His team depends on community members who believe in their vision "because they see what we do so the support just comes". While the model raises concerns around sustainability, he said they have run it for two years. With the donations that come into their food bank, they are able to plan a schedule of feeding for the students to ensure they have balanced meals. Trust and transparency are key factors that ensure they continue receiving support. One of such support is from the council manager of Ajegunle local government who provides continuing support for all meals served, one day a week, on a Monday in the school.

A subtle difference that makes a difference

Unlike other school feeding programmes, home-grown school feeding models add an additional benefit of promoting 'local' economic growth and social protection or poverty reduction objectives. Emphasis is put on using crops from local farmers to prepare meals thereby giving them enhanced access to more stable markets for their products.

Recognising its importance, every year since 2016, the African Union (AU) commemorates the African Day of School Feeding to reinforce and strengthen political will for school feeding on the continent. The 2021 edition held on March 1 focused on "Harnessing Africa's Traditional Knowledge and Food to Support Home-Grown School Feeding Programmes and Systems During COVID-19 Response and Beyond". It recognises the importance of using locally available alternatives to address malnutrition in the continent. According to a statement by the AU, the event helps convene stakeholders across the public, private, civil society, and multilateral sectors to raise awareness and knowledge on school feeding. Such high-level events provide an opportunity to take stock of progress made and galvanise political support for adoption, implementation and sustaining of school feeding policies and resources across the continent.

Beyond a meal

Sustaining school feeding programs can be threatened by lack of funds. But its benefits to both citizens and the nation should inspire the public and private sectors to be deliberate about funding it. Mrs Onyinyechi Uzoma was recruited under the government's home-grown school feeding program in Imo State. In 2019, she cooked the meals for the participating schools in her community until they stopped receiving funds. The opportunity helped her support her family, but now, she has resorted to petty trading, a venture that is cumbersome and less rewarding.

Mrs Francisca Chika, a headmistress in Owerri, Imo State recounted the story of a family with five children who were pupils in a school where she previously taught. "They were always looking malnourished and always happy to attend school to receive the meals even from a few other pupils whose parents instructed not to accept". Mrs Chika said she noticed an increase in attendance as the pupils who usually skipped some days became consistent. "Some of them come to school without eating so the meals encouraged them to come, and it was a welcome relief for their parents too". She said there are indications that the program will be continued again as adhoc staff from the ministry visited her school to capture data of her pupils. However, she wants the government to ensure that all students in all the classes receive the meals, as during the last phase, only pupils in junior classes received meals.

Sustaining the gains of the home-grown school feeding program requires putting in place structures that will entrench quality, build community trust and encourage ownership. This was what Action Health Incorporated (AHI) in Ogun State across 60 public schools in four local government areas. They monitored the implementation of the HGSFP to ensure that the food got to the children and funds disbursed to the cooks from the communities were well utilised. "We ensured there were limited leakages in the system, the agreed menus were delivered and in the right quality and quantity," said the Executive Director, Adenike Esiet, adding that they scaled up monitoring from the initial 60 pilot schools to 320 public primary schools in the four LGAs.

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AHI also set up structures that improved accountability in the system because according to Essiet, findings at the onset of their involvement showed community members were not engaged in the process. They brokered direct linkages between the communities benefiting from the programme and the government, making it easier for communities to demand accountability and report inconsistencies. The community watch group they set up empowered community members to participate in the program and provide oversight duties. To ease direct data sharing between the watch group and the state team overseeing the project, AHI developed a web portal for the state.

With accountability mechanisms like this replicated across the country, the gains of the HGSFP can be sustained. Members of the benefiting communities in the diaspora can keep track of what is happening in their communities and possibly provide the necessary support.

With ongoing conversations around the 2022 budget and as the government thinks of areas of human capital development, it is important that we put our money where our mouth is. One strategy to scale school feeding programs is to work with organisations such as Dreams from the Slum who have shown capacity and have an already established structure. This way, the work they are doing is scaled and duplication of efforts is prevented. Doing this also means that the government will focus more on providing policy and legal frameworks, while leaving implementation to local organisations.
New York / Khartoum  United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned today's military coup in Sudan, and called for the immediate release of Prime Minister Hamdok and other officials arrested after the military seized power this morning. The head of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) has called for restraint.

In a statement via Twitter, Secretary-General Guterres said that "there must be full respect for the constitutional charter to protect the hard-won political transition."

He assured that "the UN will continue to stand with the people of Sudan".

In his own statement, the head of the United Nations Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS), Special Representative Volker Perthes, called for restraint.

"I am deeply concerned about reports of an ongoing coup and attempts to undermine Sudan's political transition. The reported detentions of the Prime Minister, government officials, and politicians are unacceptable," Perthes tweeted.

"I call on the security forces to immediately release those who have been unlawfully detained or placed under house arrest. It is the responsibility of these forces to ensure the security and wellbeing of people in their custody.

"I urge all parties to exercise utmost restraint. All parties must immediately return to dialogue and engage in good faith to restore the constitutional order," Perthes tweeted.

Coup

The head of Sudan's Transitional Sovereignty Council, Lt Gen Abdelfattah El Burhan, has declared a State of Emergency in the country after the military seized power in a dawn coup in Khartoum today. Minister Abdallah Hamdok, as well as several civilian members of the Sovereignty Council have been placed under arrest and all organs of civilian government have been suspended.
Kisumu  Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) party leader Raila Odinga made a tour of Kisumu County on Monday, as he seeks to solidify support in his backyard ahead of next year's elections.

Odinga who is making a fifth stab at the presidency has been touring various parts of the country in recent weeks even though he is yet to formally declare that he is in the race to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta whose second and final term ends next year.

Those in the race so far include Deputy President William Ruto, Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi, Wiper Party leader Kaonzo Musyoka, KANU's Gideon Moi and Ford Kenya's Moses Wetangula.

Others are Governors Alfred Mutua (Machakos) Mwangi Wa Iria (Murang'a), businessman Jimi Wanjigi among others.

On Monday, flew to Kisumu from Mbita in Homa Bay and addressed a series of roadside rallies Ahero trading centre in Nyando, Korowe, Rabuor, Mowlem, Nyamasaria before winding up in Kondele.

His key message was for Kenyans especially the youth to register as voters.

"The election is coming and you can only participate if you are registered," Odinga said, urging the youth to get listed, "Other parts [of the country] are doing well and my area which should lead by example is lagging behind."

The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) has decried a low turn out in the new registrations that started last month.

Like many politicians, Odinga is banking on support from the youth whom he enticed with projects that can benefit them.

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At Kondele, Odinga said that Parliament is in the process of drafting a supplementary budget that will allow the National Treasury to inject Sh20 billion in the 3rd phase of the Kazi Mtaani project.

"The decision to implement a 3rd phase of Kazi Mtaani was reached after consulting President Uhuru Kenyatta as a mitigating factor against the ravaging effects of Covid 19," he said.

Raila further reiterated his commitment to cushion vulnerable families through a monthly cash out of Sh6, 000 which has been criticised by his main competitor Ruto as "unrealistic."

He dismissed his opponents castigating the program saying his administration will seal corruption loopholes to fund the ambitious project targeting wastage.

"I was a Prime Minister in this country for five years, I know how money is stolen, I will seal all loopholes and channel those funds to the poor," he said.

He said the youth and the vulnerable groups remains his priority if elected the 5th President.

"I am tagging along young people and I will engage them further to be part of my government," he said.
Nairobi  At least five political parties have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together ahead of the 2022 General Elections set for August next year.

They include Muungano Party, Agano Party, Daraja Party, Empowerment & Liberation Party (ELP) and Justice and Freedom Party which will work under The Eagles National Alliance.

"The Eagle alliance welcomes political parties civil society groups and all other like-minded organizations, including religious groups led by the church, to join us in this momentous journey," said Bishop Daniel Kwesi, the Director-General at Grace Ministers Alliance when they made the announcement on Monday.

Agano party leader and presidential aspirant Mwaure Waihiga expressed confidence in the alliance stating that they are committed to have leaders who will help fight corruption in the country.

"We are presenting ourselves to Kenyans as the first horse, we are re not the second or third. We are presenting ourselves and our presidential candidates because we have heard the cry of Kenyans," said Wahiga, "We want leaders and a presidential candidates who will deal with corruption at its root. Not just the present and future but the past."

Empowerment & Liberation Party leader Rose Mulwa urged women to come together and register as voters in order to have a say in the distribution of resources in the country.

"I want women to register, join me in the party so that we can participate and take positions in politics and we will have a say in the distribution of resources," she said and assured that the alliance will provide opportunities to the youth.

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"With this alliance, we will make sure the youth get all the opportunities available," she added

The alliance also urged the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) to extend the voter registration exercise to enable more Kenyans take part in the election.

"We cannot also forget to remind all who are eligible to continue to register as voters for the upcoming elections. In this regard, we urge the IEBC to extend the voter registration period, to enable Kenyans to exercise their right to vote," she said.

Political activities have intensified in the country as it gears up for elections in August next year.

At least 5 aspirants have declared interest to vie for the presidency to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta who is serving his second and final term.

Those in the race so far include Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader Raila Odinga, Deputy President William Ruto, Amani National Congress (ANC) leader Musalia Mudavadi, Wiper Party leader Kaonzo Musyoka, KANU's Gideon Moi and Ford Kenya's Moses Wetangula.

Others are Governors Alfred Mutua (Machakos) Mwangi Wa Iria (Murang'a), businessman Jimi Wanjigi among others.
A group of children are requesting that world leaders should deny armies access to schools and ensure paths to schools are free of mines and explosives, in a Children's Manifesto launched on Monday in Abuja.

The Children's Manifesto, authored by 300 children across 10 countries, is being launched as world leaders meet for the 4th International Conference on the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria.

The Director of Advocacy and Campaigns, Save the Children International Nigeria (SCI-Nigeria), Amanuel Mamo, said that for the first time, the conference is being held in Africa, a continent that has some of the highest rates of attacks on education in the world.

The conference is being co-hosted by the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA), of which Save the Children is a member, in cooperation with the African Union and the governments of Norway, Spain and Argentina.

The Children's Manifesto paints a grim picture of how children face threats and violence while at school and focuses on the intense fears felt by children in response to these attacks.

In the Manifesto, the children write: "Children are scared -when armies come to schools, arrest children or fire life or rubber bullets at them and when tear gas is used; children are scared -when there are no shelters in their schools or when they are not big enough to protect everyone; and children are scared - when military equipment passes outside the windows of their schools or houses, and when they hear the sounds of explosions and gunfire, among others.

"Attacks on education and the military use of schools and universities increased by a third globally in 2020, according to data released by the GCPEA last month," Mamo said.

In the same vein, Birgitte Lange, CEO of Save the Children Norway, said, "The Children's Manifesto shows that not only are children being harmed physically, they are also being harmed mentally by these brutal and prolonged attacks.

"It is unthinkable that for many children, schools have changed from a safe place to learn to a terrifying place of violence.

"Save the Children's new report from the Sahel also shows that recruitment to armed groups is a growing and alarming trend in the region and we see a clear link between this trend and closed schools and attacks on schools and teachers."
Nairobi  Kenya had vaccinated 4.9 million people for COVID-19 by October 24 as it races against time to beat the December deadline of 10 million people.

Health Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe said 4,944, 441 vaccines have so far been administered to Kenyans across the country, urging more people to turn up for the jab.

3,513,683 have been partially vaccinated while those fully vaccinated are 1,430,758 a low number given the target set by the government.

Kenya is deploying Astrazenecca, Johnson & Johnson, Sinopharm, Moderna and Pfizer vaccines in the vaccination drive.

Nairobi County is the highest with 16.4% of its population having been fully vaccinated.

The Health Ministry said that in a target population of 3,052,494 above 18 years, 500,949 had been fully inoculated.

Nyeri county ranks second with 71,811 out of the 510,028 targeted population having been fully vaccinated, amounting to 14.1 percent.

However, Lamu, Mandera, Wajir, Garissa, and Marsabit are trailing in the vaccination numbers with less than 1% of their population fully vaccinated.

President Uhuru Kenyatta on Wednesday last week ordered the immediate lifting of a coronavirus curfew in force since March 2020 and unveiled a stimulus package to try to revitalise the battered economy.

The Covid-19 pandemic has hit the East African powerhouse hard, particularly in the vital tourism sector, and led to the loss of hundreds of thousands of jobs.

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Kenyatta announced his decision to end the dusk-to-dawn curfew to cheers and applause at an event to mark Mashujaa Day, a public holiday to honour those who contributed to the country's independence struggle.

"With significant progress registered in the containment of Covid-19, it is now time to shift our focus from survival to co-existing with the disease," he said.

Kenya has reported more than 250,000 cases of the new coronavirus, including over 5,000 deaths, since the start of the pandemic.

But inoculation rates remain low, with only 4.6 percent of the adult population fully vaccinated, according to the latest government data.

However Kenyatta said the country was on target to meet his goal of vaccinating 10 million people by Christmas, out of a population of almost 54 million.

Kenya's economy contracted by 0.3 percent in 2020 -- the first contraction in three decades -- but the government has forecast a swing back to growth of about six percent this year.

Kenyatta announced a 25-billion shilling ($225 million, 193 million euro) financial stimulus programme from November 1 "designed to accelerate the pace of our economic growth and to sustain the gains already made".

He said a variety of sectors would be targeted, including agriculture -- long the backbone of the economy -- as well as health, education, drought response, infrastructure, energy and environmental conservation.
Makueni  Deputy President William Ruto has asked Kenyans not to be duped by what he described as unrealistic campaign promises by politicians "who have run out of ideas".

He said some leaders were making "populist pledges" that will not address the country's problems.

Ruto said the country needed a well thought-out plan, like his Bottom-Up Economic Model, that will offer solid solutions to the country's challenges. His model has also been criticised by his competitors including former Prime Minister Raila Odinga and Musalia Mudavadi of Amani National Congress (ANC) who describe it as "unrealistic."

"Kenya cannot be built by stipends. We need jobs and business opportunities that will make them economically independent," he said of Raila's Sh6,000 pledge to poor families monthly if elected to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta in next year's election. Kenyatta is serving his second and final term.

Ruto spoke on Monday in Makueni County where he held a grassroots leaders meeting from Kibwezi East and Kibwezi West before addressing the public in Mtito Andei, Kambu, Kinyambu, Kibwezi, Mbuinzau, Kiundwani and Makindu.

The Deputy President said the Sh720 billion his opponent was promising youth was "outright conmanship".

He explained that youth unemployment was a serious issue that needed practical and sustainable solutions.

The Deputy President said the Hustler Movement will deliberately implement programmes that will create jobs for the youth.

Ruto said he will invest in programmes that will create employment for the four million unemployed youth.

He said he will focus on empowering SMEs through SACCOs and transforming agriculture to make farming profitable.

He said the revolutionary economic plan will ensure Government resources are distributed equitably and fairly across the country.

"It is only by changing the economy that we will be able to employ more youth, and empower small businesses," he added.

Ruto appealed to Kenyans to embrace national political parties that will champion for a national agenda.

He added: "A tribal political party cannot form a government; the next government will be formed by a party that has the backing of the majority of Kenyans."

Leaders present were Turkana Governor Josphat Nanok, MPs Victor Munyaka (Machakos), Katoo Ole Metito (Kajiado South), Ndindi Nyoro(Kiharu), and Nimrod Mbai (Kitui East), former Machakos Senator Johnstone Muthama and former Kilome MP Regina Ndambuki.

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Muthama said it was only Dr Ruto who has a development track-record of uniting and transforming the country.

On his part, Munyaka said Mr Odinga neglected the people of Ukambani to pursue his selfish political agenda.

He said: "He forgot that the people of UKambani overwhelmingly voted for him and enjoyed the benefits of the handshake alone."

Nanok urged Ruto to continue interacting with ordinary citizens and listening to their needs saying it will help him form a people-centred government.

"We want a leader who will listen and address issues affecting Kenyans," said Nanok.

Katoo said all Kenyans were united and behind Ruto who has a clear plan on what he wants to do for the country

Nyoro asked the youth to maintain peace and shun politicians seeking to use them to cause violence.
President Muhammadu Buhari has said that the adoption of the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) and its underlying technology, blockchain, will increase Nigeria's GDP by $29 billion (about N11.9 tr) over the next 10 years.

The president said this Monday in Abuja at the official launch of the eNaira.

He said the introduction of the eNaira will enable the government to send direct payments to citizens eligible for specific welfare programmes as well as foster cross border trade.

The president said with the launch of eNaira, Nigeria has become the first country in Africa and one of the first in the world to introduce a digital currency to her citizens.

The president, in a statement issued by his spokesman, Femi Adesina, who assured Nigerians of the safety and scalability of the CBDC system, said the journey to create a digital currency for Nigeria began sometime in 2017.

Buhari revealed that some countries, including China, Bahamas and Cambodia have already issued their CBDCs while other countries are in a research process.

"Needless to add, close monitoring and close supervision will be necessary for the early stages of implementation to study the effect of the eNaira on the economy as a whole.

"It is based on this that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sought and received my approval to explore issuing Nigeria's own Central Bank Digital Currency, named the eNaira," he said.

eNaira

Explainer: What you need to know about eNaira

The rise of digital currencies is also driving new forms of digital money assets like Blockchain technology, which is driving cryptocurrencies with all the associated risks.

The CBN had warned against the investments in cryptos since they are not bound by any known regulator.

However, the eNaira is not a cryptocurrency and thus cannot be traded like cryptos. The eNaira is the same as the physical currency but in a digital form thus can be used for payments and purchases only.

At the launch, Emefiele said Nigerians are already excited about the eNaira as transactions are already taking place.

He also said there are security measures to protect the digital currency.

"Specifically, there will be strict adherence to the anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) standards to preserve the integrity and stability of Nigeria's payment system," Emefiele said.

With the activation of the eNaira platform on Monday, Nigerians and other residents in Nigeria wishing to transact businesses or make payments using the eNaira can now download the eNaira Speed Wallet App on iOS or Play Store and be able to perform the following:

Onboard and create their wallet

Fund their eNaira wallet from their bank accounts

Transfer eNaira from their wallet to another wallet

Make payment for purchases at registered merchant locations.

Prospective users can also approach their banks for support or any of the eNaira accredited vendors.

Your eNaira transaction volume

The apex bank has also set the limit of transactions in the framework. For instance, in the Tier 0 category or phone number without verified National Identity Number (NIN), the daily transaction is limited to N20, 000 with a balance or e-wallet limit set at N120, 000.

For the Tier 1 category with verified NIN, the daily transaction reaches N50, 000 with N300, 000 e-Naira wallet balance. Those in the Tier 2 category can do N200,000 daily and N500,000 e-wallet balance while for Tier 3, they can do N1 million daily transactions and hold N5m via e-wallet.

CBN further said merchants or individuals that have full clearance have no limit as to the e-Naira transaction they can do.

How eNaira differs from physical currency

Unlike the physical currency, the eNaira ledger will not be warehoused in a bank but at CBN. Thus, it is not interest-yielding and doesn't function as a savings account. It enables the account holder to keep floating cash that he or she can use for basic transactions. The money in the eNaira wallet isn't also insured thus cyber theft of the money might not be compensated.

Why eNaira?

One key attraction of the eNaira is that you don't have to be tech-savvy to leverage it. Users can also access it for payments and transactions using the short text codes or USSD. The USSD code hasn't been promoted yet.

It provides a unified payment system by enabling customers to transfer money from their main account to their e-wallet.

Digital currency enables contactless payment by making payment without any hand-to-hand encounter which is a preventive measure in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Customers can make in-store payments using their eNaira wallet by scanning Quick Response (QR) codes.

The new digital currency also enables peer-to-peer payment as customers can send money to one another through a linked bank account or transaction.

You can also manage your bank account on the eNaira platform, so you can check your account balance and monitor transactions.

What new guideline says

According to the eNaira guideline released on Monday by the Director, Financial Policy and Regulatory Department, Chibuzo Efobi, for self-enrollment into the eNaira Speed App, one must have Bank Verification Number (BVN) particulars that include an email address.

Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) are also empowered to receive revenue and make payments in eNaira.

While onboarding, users will have to disclose on the app if they are using it for themselves or for trustees, in which case they will have to disclose further details.

To encourage more people to join the platform, CBN in the latest guideline said all charges shall be free in the next 90 days (three months) from the launch date yesterday. The charges are similar to existing online charges for bank transactions.

Can eNaira raise naira-dollar value?

The eNaira will not necessarily have an impact on the value of the Naira against major currencies like the US Dollar. This is because the currency cannot be traded for profits just like the physical Naira cannot be traded. It can only be used to make payments.

Emefiele said the CBN will continue to refine, fine-tune and upgrade it. Therefore, Nigerians should expect to see additional functionalities in the coming months, including:

- Accessibility and onboarding of customers without BVN and the use of the eNaira on the phone without the internet will further drive financial inclusion, making Nigeria one of the first countries in the world to deploy the CBDC via USSD on phones without relying on internet connectivity.

- Onboarding of revenue collection agencies to increase and simplify collections

- Creation of sector-specific tokens to support the federal government's social programmes and distribution of targeted welfare schemes in a bid to lift millions out of poverty by 2025.

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The bank has also clarified that the eNaira is not an investment platform but a version of the physical currency, as it had held extensive engagements with stakeholders in the banking community, merchants and financial technology (fintech) operators and users.

The apex bank has themed the eNaira as: 'Same Naira, more possibilities and it can be used by creating an eNaira wallet.

The CBN has also urged Deposit Money Banks (DMBs) to facilitate prompt placement of restrictions on eNaira wallets in the event of a valid report of loss, theft of device or compromise and a hack of a user eNaira wallet.

CBN had launched the eNaira Regulatory Guidelines earlier this month, which empowers customers to report compromises of the eNaira wallet via USSD channels, internet banking platforms, customer care phone lines, and in-branch customer care.

CBN integrates 33 banks, mints N500m for eNaira

The CBN Governor, Godwin Emefiele, said 33 banks have integrated into transacting in the digital currency of which it has minted N500 million for that and has released N200m to the banks.

"The eNaira and Naira will have the same value and will always be exchanged at one naira to one eNaira," he said.

According to Emefiele, since the eNaira platform went live, there has been overwhelming interest and encouraging response from Nigerians and other parties across the world with over 2.5 million daily visits to the website.

On the milestones achieved with the launch of the digital currency, he said: "33 banks are fully integrated and live on the platform, N500m has been successfully minted by the bank, N200m has been issued to financial institutions, over 2,000 customers have been onboarded and over 120 merchants have successfully registered on the eNaira platform".
The African Union Mission in Somalia (Amisom) has launched a sensitisation campaign on the need for fair coverage of elections, raising the role of the media in the country's political set-up.

The programme, a collaboration between Amisom, the National Union of Somalia Journalists (Nusoj) and the main electoral management body (FEIT), seeks to place journalists at the fore of informing the public about politics without inciting them.

It was launched on Saturday and will initially include dozens of journalists from all five federal states, where indirect elections for the Lower House are due to begin.

Gradually, officials say, the network of trained journalists should increase, signalling an expansion of focus by a mission that was initially only involved in security, not governance.

Amisom said in a statement that the workshops will push "objective election coverage" and be supported by Nusoj and the African Union Commission's Electoral Assistance Mission in Somalia.

"It is intended for Somali journalists and aims to promote fair coverage of the ongoing elections," Amisom said on Saturday.

And according to Simon Mulongo, the deputy head of Amisom, the media will now be key in promoting peaceful, free and fair elections for Somalia and that the "AU is keen to promote a conducive working environment for journalists before, during and after the elections for them to discharge their professional responsibilities".

Somalia has been holding its much-delayed elections since August. It began with indirect elections for the Upper House (Senate). Some 52 of the 54 seats have been filled and Galmudug state was expected to elect its final two slots this week.

The country will then begin filling the 275 slots for MPs in the Lower House (House of the People). The posts will be filled according to slots allocated for each of the five federal states, and the capital region of Benadir. The regions are Puntland, Jubbaland, South West, Galmudug and Hirshabelle.

Nusoj said the awareness campaign will provide a much-needed "essential skills and fundamentals journalists need to professionally cover elections".

The lobby's organising secretary, Nima Hassan Abdi, admitted that Somalia's journalists have always needed professional support, arguing that while the union has seen more than 200 journalists trained on elections, more will need the support to ensure accurate reporting.

The programme is the AU's first inclusion of the media in a political season where their role was curtailed in the past. Somalia is also one of the most dangerous places in Africa to work as a journalist and Nusoj had in the past urged reforms, including amendments to media laws, protection of their work and improvements in their welfare.

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FEIT chairman Mohamed Hassan Irro pledged to ensure journalists "report on what citizens hope and expect from their future reps and to inform them independently".

The programme marks the second time in a year that the AU is collaborating with local lobbies to ensure balanced coverage of news and prevention of hate speech.

In December last year, Amisom, Nusoj and the Electoral Institute for Sustainable Democracy in Africa teamed up with the Somalia government in a campaign against hate speech and incitement.

It came after a series of hate messages on mainstream and social media.
Edith Kithei Musomba had to raise money from well-wishers to join the University of Nairobi following the recent fee increment.

Ms Musomba, who was the best Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination candidate in Machakos county and 10th nationally in 2020, is among the new students affected by the decision to increase fees by Kenya's premier university.

After excelling in the national tests at Machakos Girls High School, Ms Musomba's academic journey appeared to have ended abruptly as her could not raise the amount indicated in the fee structure.

She was required to pay Sh59,000 as tuition fee, Sh38, 000 for accommodation and buy a laptop valued at Sh40, 000.

The figure was a sharp increment from the Sh26,500 annual fee, inclusive of Sh16,000 tuition fees.

"We had to call a harambee for her to join the university," the girl's mother, Florence Ndanu, told the Daily Nation.

Ms Musomba's secondary school education was sponsored by Kenya Connect, a non-governmental organisation.

She was among students whose efforts were recognised by Education Cabinet Secretary George Magoha when he announced the results in May.

Ms Ndanu said she would need more help if her daughter is to complete the course.

Many First Year students at the University interviewed said they are not sure they will complete their academic programmes.

Self-sponsored students

University of Nairobi Director of Corporate Affairs, John Orindi, said 1,971 government-sponsored students have not reported four weeks since the admissions began.

The institution hopes they would have made it by Friday, the deadline for First Year students to report for the September-December semester.

Of the 6,407 students who received letters from the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (Kuccps) to join the university, some 4,436 have made it.

"The university usually gives new students a reporting window of five weeks. Those who will not have reported by Friday will have to wait until next year," Mr Orindi said.

Thousands of self-sponsored undergraduate, masters and doctorate students are also yet to join the university following the increase in fees.

Mr Orindi said out of 10,971 students called for government and privately sponsored programmes, a total of 6,835 have already reported.

From the 4,564 students who received letters for self-sponsored programmes, some 2,399 have reported to the university.

The high number of students yet to report is believed to be as a result of the increased fees announced by the University of Nairobi recently as it attempts to address its financial crisis.

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Last month, the University of Nairobi announced that undergraduate annual tuition and administrative fees had been increased from Sh26,500 to Sh59,000 for first year government-sponsored students.

A student will pay Sh54,000 in the second semester.

Financial problems

While the university maintained the regulated tuition fee of Sh16, 000 charged by the public institutions, it increased administrative fees.

Self-sponsored degree programmes, which cost an average of Sh300,000, are now more than Sh600,000.

The fee for self-sponsored students taking medicine was increased from Sh445,000 to Sh640,000.

Those pursuing Ear, Nose and Throat surgery will pay Sh480,000 up from Sh324, 000.

The revised administrative and academic fees have, however, not been implemented for continuing students.

The fee for master's courses in art programmes, which used to be Sh275,000 has been increased by 147 per cent to Sh680,000.

The University of Nairobi, alongside Kenyatta and Moi are among the institutions in serious financial problems.

Several reports have recommended that these universities need to come up with ways of boosting their revenues.

The International Monetary Fund identified the University of Nairobi as being among the State institutions with huge financial deficits and proposed job cuts and other reforms.

The university is also not paying pension and remitting workers' statutory deductions, according to the Kenya Revenue Authority.
Chief executive officers face Sh1 million fine or 10 years in jail if they fail to set up internal code of conduct for battling bribery and corruption as the State extends the fight against graft to the private sector.

The new guidelines will require firms to have a written code mapping out corruption risks and ways to combat graft.

Firms will be expected to hire a senior executive to drive their anti-corruption agenda, including enforcement actions and back the manager with a budget, an additional cost burden to corporates.

The companies must show proof of internal channels established to report graft and state of confidentiality in reporting and handling unethical practices.

Top executives will be required to report cases of bribery or corruption to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) within 24 hours.

Read more here
Pending bills remain a headache for county governments, eroding resources for development and increasing the number of stalled projects.

According to the latest report by Controller of Budget, Margaret Nyakang'o, devolved governments owe suppliers and contractors up to Sh96 billion, despite pressure by the National Treasury, to clear the bills.

As of June 2021, the 47 county governments reported accumulated pending bills of Sh96 billion, the report says.

Nairobi county leads with Sh54.3 billion, accounts for 56.6 per cent of the pending bills that date back several years.

The amounts include payment to the Kenya Medical Supplies Authority (Kemsa), goods delivered and projects completed as well as legal fees, electricity and water bills.

Other counties that have huge pending bills are Mombasa (Sh4.47 billion), Kiambu (Sh3.5 billion), Kwale (Sh2.29 billion), Kilifi (Sh1.9 billion), Murang'a (Sh1.8 billion), Embu (Sh1.8 billion), Migori (Sh1.8 billion), Turkana (Sh1. 7 billion) and Wajir with Sh1.4 billion.

Outstanding bills

The Mandera county government did not have outstanding bills at the time the report was being drafted.

The Controller of Budget attributes the high bills on over-commitment of spending by county authorities, failure to follow approved work plans, under-performance of own-source revenue, weak internal control mechanisms, among other reasons.

Ms Nyakang'o's team recommends that pending bills be budgeted as a first charge in the 2021/22 financial year in line with the law.

"It is prudent that county governments prioritise pending bills before embarking on other expenditure," the new report advises.

It identifies hurdles to effective budget execution.

The challenges include high expenditure on personnel emoluments which translated to 44.2 per cent of total expenditure, under- performance of own-source revenue, which was 64.2 per cent of the annual target, low expenditure on development, which translated to an absorption rate of 62.1 per cent, delay in submission of financial and non-financial reports, weak budgetary control and use of revenue and high expenditure on local travel.
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) has warned of a likelihood of Covid-19 infections surge after easing of containment measures amid deteriorating health sector in the country.

KMPDU officials have raised concern over deteriorating health sector because of lack of commitment by respective County governments to address issues affecting the sector, as members of the public continue to ignore various Ministry of Health protocols to contain Covid-19 virus.

KMPDU Secretary General Dr Davji Atella and union's chairman Dr Abidan Mwachi urged national and county governments to be on the lookout of a possible outbreak of another wave.

"We are concerned that County governments are disregarding health workers agreements, ignoring to address their plights even through court orders. This is a serious issue considering that the governments should embrace health personnel this time when most of the people have dropped the guard after President Uhuru Kenyatta lifted dawn to dusk curfew in the last few days," said Dr Atella.

Addressing the media during the ad hoc Union's national delegates meeting at English Point in Mombasa, Mr Atella said there is need for the two governments to take health sector serious by addressing issues of salaries and provision of medical supplies.

"We cannot separate health sector and economy progression hence there's need to check our health systems at this time when the national government has eased a number of Covid-19 containment measures," said Dr Atella.

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He added, "If the departments concerned will not deal with issues affecting health workers, soon will be supervising deaths in our hospitals since there is no motivation of work as we anticipate increase of virus infections."

The union singled out Nairobi, Kitui, Mombasa, Taita-Taveta, Kirinyaga among counties which have persistently disregard welfare of the health workers.

Early this month, the Employment and Labour Relations court ordered Kitui County government to release salaries of 20 doctors whose pay had been withheld since July because they have refused to cut short their study leave.

Mr Mwachi on his part said the union is pushing for a centralized coordination of health activities through the formation of Health Service Commission.

"We have been pushing to have one commission to address issues affecting health workers where all 47 counties will be coordinating how to deal with staff statutory deductions and their salaries," said the chairperson.

He also urged the government to allocate more funds to vaccinate more people in the next few weeks to avert any possible virus infections surge.

"With only less than 5 million people fully vaccinated against as population of 50 million, this is a danger in the waiting thus government should not concentrate on opening the economy without addressing health issues and this can be done through increasing availability of vaccines," said KMPDU chairperson.
Lamu Senator Anwar Loitiptip was caught up in a shooting drama in Nanyuki, days after he was accused of attempting to throw a man into the Indian Ocean.

The Senator surrendered at Nanyuki police station last evening for allegedly shooting a woman in Nanyuki town at dawn Sunday.

His gun was also seized.

Laikipia County Criminal Investigations Officer Onesmus Towett on Sunday confirmed Ms Joy Makena, 32, was shot at 2am at Kanu grounds.

According to Mr Towett, the Senator claims he was attacked by three individuals and he shot the woman during the scuffle.

"It is true there was a shooting incident involving the Senator but he claims he acted in self defence," Mr Towett told Nation yesterday.

"The Senator is receiving treatment at a hospital in Nairobi claiming he was injured. Our officers are pursuing the matter," he added.

Police reports indicate that the matter was reported at Nanyuki police station at 2:20 am.

Shot in a scuffle

Upon arrival at the scene, police found Ms Makena who had been shot in her right leg above the ankle.

It was reported that the shooting occurred after a quarrel with Mr Anwar. Ms Makena was rushed to Nanyuki Teaching and Referral Hospital.

"The scene was processed and two spent cartridges of 9mm recovered. The firearm with 13 rounds of ammunitions was recovered from his security detail Manoah Omale," the report read in part.

In May last year, Mr Anwar's father was shot in a scuffle involving police officers at Kiwanja Ndege area in Laikipia North Sub County.

Last week, the Senator was accused of assaulting a politician Francis Mugo at the Manda Airport Jetty on Tuesday evening, just minutes after Deputy President William Ruto left the county for Nairobi.

In the altercation, Mr Mugo, 32, who has declared interest in vying for the Lamu senatorial seat on a UDA ticket, was injured in the right hand, left eye and hip.

Mr Anwar is alleged to have broken Mr Mugo's eyeglasses, snatched his mobile phone and tried to throw him into the Indian Ocean.

"I am disappointed by Senator Loitiptip's behaviour. He attacked me immediately after DP Ruto boarded his flight and left Manda Airport," Mr Mugo said.

Nightclub attack

"He forcefully took my phone, which I was using. In the process, he broke my eyeglasses and injured me in the right hand and left eye."

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He added, "He further harassed me by trying to throw me into the ocean at the jetty but I was lucky he didn't succeed."

The matter was reported at the Lamu Central Police Station and recorded under OB number 26/19/10/2021.

But the Senator dismissed the allegation that he harassed, beat and injured Mr Mugo.

He described the information as fake, malicious and incorrect.

"That man is just looking for sympathy and to tarnish my name but I will just (ignore) him. You can imagine how unfair it is for someone to come and gate-crash my function, then try to frame me," he said.

In June 2019, the Senator was seriously injured in his head when he was attacked at a popular nightclub on Thika Road after watching the European Champions League finals in the company of former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko's daughter, Saumu Mbuvi.

The Senator is alleged to have just rescued Ms Mbuvi from a man who had attacked her in the washrooms, only for the assailant to come back with reinforcements and beat him using clubs and other crude weapons.
A court in Nanyuki has released Lamu Senator Anwar Loitiptip on Sh500,000 cash bail or a bond of Sh1 million.

This comes after he surrendered at Nanyuki police station last evening for allegedly shooting a woman in Nanyuki town at dawn Sunday.

Police reports indicate that the matter was reported at Nanyuki police station at 2:20 am.

On Monday, after freeing him on bail, Nanyuki resident magistrate Vincent Masivo ordered the legislator to report to DCI offices every two days until mention of his case on November 1, 2021.

"The respondent is hereby barred from visiting or staying in Laikipia County for the next five days. The respondent shall report to the sub-county criminal investigations office every two days and is barred from interfering with the witnesses," Mr Masivo said.

He was charged with causing grievous harm and unlawful use of firearm.

His gun was seized after he surrendered to the police.

Prosecutors Jackson Motende and Susan Keli had argued that Mr Loitiptip was an influential person in society and is likely to interfere with witnesses if released on bail.

"The law is very clear that in such a case as this. He should be detained for investigations to be completed," Ms Keli told the court.

She said the legislator should be detained at the station to allow detectives retrieve CCTV footage and give guidance on how the matter should proceed.

Mr Loitiptip, through his lawyer Mr J.M Mwangi, adduced a Covid-19 report from hospital, arguing that he was not fit for police custody.

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But Ms Keli said: "The senator, through his lawyer, has presented a Covid-19 report from a laboratory dated September 25, 2021. As per now, his condition cannot be ascertained."

But the magistrate dismissed the application by the prosecution, noting that it had not presented enough reasons to have the lawmaker detained.

"It has not been demonstrated how his presence in police custody would allow the DCI to retrieve CCTV footage at Ibis Hotel in Nanyuki town. Considering my analysis, I find no compelling reasons why he should be detained. Investigating officer has failed to justify the detention of the respondent for five days," Mr Masivo said.

Laikipia County Criminal Investigations Officer Onesmus Towett confirmed Ms Joy Makena, 32, was shot at 2am at Kanu grounds.

Police reports indicated that the matter was reported at Nanyuki police station at 2:20 am.

Upon arrival at the scene, officers found Ms Makena was shot on her right leg above the ankle. It was reported that the shooting incident occurred after a quarrel with Mr Anwar.

Ms Makena was rushed to Nanyuki Teaching and Referral Hospital.

"The scene was processed and two spent cartridges of 9mm recovered from the scene. The firearm with 13 rounds of ammunition was recovered from his security detail named Manoah Omale," the report read in part.

The matter will come up for mention on November 1, 2021.
Only 760,000 Kenyans have registered as new voters against a target of 4.5 million by this week, Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) chairperson Wafula Chebukati has revealed.

He said the agency is concerned about the low voter registration trend as the mass listing drive is planned to end on Tuesday, November 2.

"A report will be going out soon for all the counties, but we have only done 760,000 plus, out of an expected 4.5 million. It is a very low turnout; I know Kenyans will wait until the last minute to come out. Last minute is now because we are closing on November 2," he said.

He revealed this at a meeting in Nairobi of senior officials from the Judiciary, Ministry of Interior, IEBC and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission to discuss the country's state of election preparedness.

"My appeal to Kenyans is to come out in large numbers and register because this is the only chance where the commission will be coming near you," Mr Chebukati said.

Despite the low turnout, the IEBC boss assured Kenyans that the next General Election would be free, fair and credible as they are working with the other agencies to ensure everything is in place for the 2022 polls.

Elections

"IEBC as a commission is in charge of elections and referendums. That is what the Constitution says and we are an independent commission, but each of these agencies here have something to do with elections within their mandate and we will work together to be able to deliver to Kenyans free and fair elections," he said.

Voter registration apathy is a growing concern, with key politicians eyeing political seats campaigning across the country and urging the masses, mostly young people, to register and take part in the next polls.

IEBC is now in a tight spot as it seeks to push up the numbers of new registered voters.

The agency had targeted at least six million new voters, but an analysis of the number of eligible voters as shown by the latest population data - unregistered ones and young people who have attained voting age - shows a figure of about nine million potential new voters.
Chief Justice Martha Koome has ordered that all pending election-related cases be heard and determined within the next 90 days.

She was speaking during a multi-agency meeting of senior officials from the Judiciary, Ministry of Interior, the Independent Elections and Boundaries Commission and the National Cohesion and Integration Commission.

CJ Koome noted during the event at the Kenya School of Government that the pending election cases impacted the process of free and fair elections and should therefore be completed to pave the way for the next polls in 2022.

"All these cases will be collated, given to us as the Judiciary and we will ask that our judges and magistrates under whose dockets those cases fall (determine them) as soon as possible and in any event, within 90 days," she said.

The fast-tracking of the cases, CJ Koome explained, was in line with the Judiciary's vision that all election-related cases be decided within the framework given by the law.

"I assure Kenyans that we are carrying our mandate to ensure there is protection under the rule of law and that you have somewhere to go if you have any problem," the Judiciary boss said.

She also revealed that the courts had noted the vice of hate speech with rising concern and that plans are underway to set up a specialised court to deal with hate-speech cases.

The first five courts dealing with hate speech will be set up in areas that have been noted as hotspots of the crime, including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru and Eldoret.

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The CJ also expressed her concerns about the increase in gender-based violence cases, noting that election cycles that often come with tension and violence only make the incidents rise even more.

She called on Kenyans to check their behaviour and take responsibility for their actions.

"We should now be focused on how we reduce conflict and coexist, because elections ... come and go and leave us as Kenyans. Let us treat elections like religion - you practise yours and I practice mine. We should coexist peacefully," she said before urging the NCIC to roll out thorough civic education across the country.

Political parties were also asked to comply with the law during campaigns and meetings and take responsibility for any occurrence that might arise.

"Have a code of conduct, some ground rules. When you have a meeting and there is violence, people fight, some people even die and some are hurt, property is destroyed. They (political parties) must take responsibility for that," she said.
The Supreme Court has put on hold plans to swear in acting Nairobi Governor Ann Kananu as the city county boss.

This was after former governor Mike Sonko rushed to the apex court saying he was about to be deprived of his seat unconstitutionally.

Justice Mohammed Ibrahim, sitting a single judge, suspended the plans for two weeks, to allow Mr Sonko argue his case before the top court.

The former governor, who was impeached last year, rushed to the Supreme Court after the Court of Appeal rejected his application to stop Ms Kananu from assuming the office.

Impugned judgment

Last Friday, the Court of Appeal cleared the way for Ms Kananu to be sworn in as the substantive county boss after the judges ruled that Mr Sonko's application, to suspend the process, did not meet the threshold to be granted the order.

The judges also noted that the issue of the swearing in of Ms Kananu was not among the grounds raised by Mr Sonko in his appeal.

"We find that the issue of the swearing in of the 11th respondent was not raised in the High Court and the impugned judgment did not address or determine that issue," Justices Wanjiru Karanja, Jamila Mohammed and Jessie Lesiit said.

The court noted as submitted by the Attorney General that Mr Sonko has been out of office for more than 10 months and is effectively no longer the governor of Nairobi.

Apex court

But Mr Sonko rushed to the apex court arguing that he stands to unfairly and unlawfully being deprived of his lawfully contested and won Nairobi gubernatorial elective position, unless the court intervenes.

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The former governor has maintained that his impeachment was illegal and the court should determine whether it was done as required by the law.

He has further argued that Ms Kananu unconstitutionally assumed the position of the deputy governor, and there were plans to have her become the substantive governor against the law.

"If the intervention sought herein is not granted the jeopardy suffered by the Appellant herein is double - both the Court of Appeal in the 2 Appeals alluded to above and this Honourable Supreme Court will be left with Appeals and a Petition of Appeal respectively that are merely academic as the Nairobi City County Governor position which has been preserved so far will have been unlawfully taken by the 11th respondent (Ms Kananu) herein," he said in an affidavit.
A British soldier (right) gives instructions during a joint training with Kenya Defence Forces at Archers Post in Samburu County on October 7, 2020 (file photo).

In the Majengo slums of Nanyuki town, the family of Agnes Wanjiru, whose body was found in a septic tank in 2012, is still seeking answers about her murder.

Wanjiru's body was found in the tank two months after she disappeared on March 31, 2012 while out with British soldiers at the Lions Court hotel.

Wanjiru's elder sister Rose Wanyua was reluctant to grant Nation.Africa an interview.

But Ms Wanyua and her husband Mr John Muchiri later relented and opened up about what the family has gone through since Wanjiru died.

The couple says they helped raise Wanjiru since she was in Standard Three and lived with her until she joined Form Three. She dropped out of school after becoming pregnant.

Nine months old

On the day Wanjiru disappeared, Ms Wanyua said that upon enquiring, she was informed that she had gone out with a friend.

"I returned home but I did not find my sister. I was told that she had left with a friend called Florence. Days turned to months and efforts to find her were futile," Ms Wanyua said.

Wanjiru's daughter was nine months old when her 21-year-old mother was killed.

"The baby cried uncontrollably but she was too young to understand what had happened to her mother. We couldn't imagine that we had lost Wanjiru in such a heinous manner. However, there is a ray of hope," Ms Wanyua said.

Now, that child is 10 years old and in Grade Four at a school in Nanyuki.

Ms Wanyua said the girl's education was paid for by a charitable organisation, until recently when the sponsorship was withdrawn.

Speed up investigations

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"We do not have money to pay for her schooling. We are appealing for assistance," she said.

Mr Muchiri, for his part, urged the government to speed up the investigations into the matter and unearth what transpired on March 31, 2012.

"We do not have money to hire a lawyer who can help us in seeking justice. We still don't know whether there has been progress in the case," Mr Muchiri said.

Wanjiru's badly mutilated body was discovered more than two months after she went missing, reportedly after an encounter with a British army soldier.

Ms Florence Nyaguthii and Ms Susan Nyambura told the media at the time that they met Wanjiru on that fateful night at the hotel, where she was accompanied by two white men that they thought were British soldiers.

"Wanjiru joined us at the bar at around 11pm and we started dancing. Moments later, I found her with a bottle of beer and I asked her to buy me some water and she told me that the beer was bought by a potential client who accompanied her," Ms Nyaguthii said then.

That was the last day the mother of one was spotted alive.
The Interim Administrator, Presidential Amnesty Programme, PAP, Col. Milland Dixon Dikio (retd) has expressed regrets over perceived emerging new wave of militancy in the Niger Delta, adding that the ill is fuelled by abuse of substances by youths in the region.

Dikio, however, called for urgent steps by stakeholders to curb the emerging threat in the region.

The amnesty boss spoke when he paid a visit on the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Muhammad Buba Marwa (rtd), in Abuja, according to a statement signed Monday by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Nneotaobase Egbe.

He said that the partnership between NDLEA and PAP would drastically reduce cases of drug abuse and reposition the minds of youths of the region for more productive ventures.

Dikio said: "We have a unique challenge in the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) that of managing ex-militants; we call them ex-agitators. We want to take active measures to not only manage the present ex-agitators, but to pre-empt and stop the pipeline that leads to deviant behaviour and militancy.

"It goes without saying that some of these people get their motivation by using or abusing substances, so we want to key into what you are doing on the arrest side and learn what we can do on the prevention side".

Meanwhile, the NDLEA boss, Marwa, in his remark, promised that the NDLEA would partner PAP to curb the intake of hard drugs and other substances by youths in the Niger Delta.

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Marwa decried the wave of drug-induced crime in the country, especially among youths noting that the collaboration between PAP and his agency would focus on sensitisation and counseling programmes as a major preventive measure to curb the menace.

He said 80% of drug users in the country need counseling, saying that records corroborated by a United Nation's study showed that in Nigeria, one in seven persons between ages 23 to 64 abused drugs.

Marwa said: "We have also found that the students, bandits, kidnappers, rapists, down the line youths, militants, use drugs and we will be very happy to collaborate with the Amnesty Programme.

"We don't need to wait for people to become drug addicts first; the majority have not used drugs, others have tasted but are not addicted to it. The ex-agitators are also normal human beings that will like to marry and raise families.

"The advice we give that will deal with the drug problem is to find some source of income for them through skills acquisition and if it is affordable, some kind of wage structure."

Vanguard News Nigeria
President Muhammadu Buhari has launched the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) digital currency, the e-Naira.

While launching the digital currency, at the State House,Abuja, this afternoon, the president commended the CBN Governor, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, for his efforts towards ensuring a more efficient payment system in the country.

In his address, Mr. Emefiele announced a new financial instrument titled "The 100 for 100 PPP - Policy on Production and Productivity," to reduce the nation's overdependence on imports.

According to the governor, the instrument "will be anchored in our Development Finance Department under my direct supervision.

"Under this policy the CBN will advertise, screen, scrutinize and financially support 100 targeted private sector companies in 100 days, beginning from 01 November 2021, and rolling over every 100 days with a new set of 100 companies, whose names will be published in National Dailies for Nigerians to verify and confirm.

"The purpose of this instrument is to take further steps to reverse our over reliance on imports."

According to Mr. Emefiele, working through banks, the financial instrument would be available to their customers in critical areas to boost the production and productivity, with a view to immediately transforming and jumpstarting the productive base of the economy.

He explained, "After these 100 projects by companies in the first hundred days from November 1, we will take the next 100 companies/projects for another 100 days beginning February 1, 2022, and then another 100 companies for another 100 days beginning from May 1, 2022.

"We believe that if we target and support the right companies and projects, we will see a significant, 14 measurable and verifiable increase in local production and productivity, reduction in certain imports, increase in non-oil exports, and improvements in the FX-generating capacity of the economy.

"This, in my view, is the best and most sustainable way to address the Naira's value - whether in hard currency or digital eNaira - through production, production and more production."

How SAP in 1986 started Naira's free fall

The CBN boss lamented that the Structural Adjustment Programme of the then government administration in 1986, under the International Monetary Fund, plunged the Naira into a free fall from which it has not recovered.

Mr. Emefiele's words, "Mr. President, as you make ground breaking reforms, there have been continuing debates on the true value of the Naira.

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"Rather than worry today on the direction of the exchange rate, let us take a step back and analyze how we got here in the first place.

"Please recall that since the advent of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) led Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) in 1986, and the introduction of the Second Tier Foreign Exchange (SFEM) market, the Naira has been on a one-way free fall from parity to the US Dollar in 1984 to over N410/USD today.

"Some 35 years later, we have not been able to achieve the many promises and objectives of that programme. Instead, what we have seen is widespread import dependency, which has wiped out most of our production and manufacturing bases and exported all our jobs in the process.

"What has happened to the massive textile factories across our nation such that we import almost all cotton products when we are rich in cotton?

"What has happened to our vehicle assembly plants across the nation such that we import most vehicles and have become a massive dumping ground for dying second-hand vehicles?

"What has happened to our rubber plantations through which we made the best tyres and rubber products in the world?

"What has happened to our groundnut pyramids? What has happened to our Cocoa farms? What has happened to our palm oil mills?

"Under your leadership, Mr. President, we must stop this decline for good! We must return to massive homemade production; we must get our people working again. We must create the economic environment for massive domestic production and significant non-oil exports."

Vanguard News Nigeria
The leadership of organised labour under the auspices of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has appealed to the government to use the tool of persuasion and conviction rather than force to get workers and the general public to take COVID-19 vaccination.

It however encouraged Nigerian workers and eligible members of the public to take the COVID-19 vaccine as an effective remedy to avoid the associated sickness and hospitalization.

NLC urged the government and other employers of labour to adopt the strategy of persuasion and to make special arrangement for workers to access the vaccine at theit workplace.

Speaking at a media briefing to unveil the COVID-19 vaccination advisory for the federal civil servants in Abuja on Monday, the NLC President, Ayuba Wabba, said that though the efficacy of vaccines for the control of COVID-19 has been scientifically proven, "the tool of persuasion and conviction be used rather than force to get workers and the general populace to take the vaccine".

Against the background of the move by the federal government to enforce vaccination amongst its workers by setting December deadline, the NLC boss said that the congress would rather suggest the use of persuasion to attract greater patronage of the COVID-19 vaccination.

"The truth is that despite being imperfect, the COVID-19 vaccine has given all of us a better chance of fighting the virus and staying alive. I urge workers all over the world to take advantage of the COVID-19 vaccines and keep themselves, their families and their colleagues at work safe and free from the morbid threats of the coronavirus pandemic.

"We urge government and other employers of labour to make special arrangement for workers to access the vaccine at the workplace. We urge that the tool of persuasion and conviction be used rather than force to get workers and the general populace to take the vaccine," he said.

Wabba said that COVID-19 pandemic has brought some of the biggest strains, stress and squeeze to the workplace, adding that housands of workers have died from the disease.

Wabba said: "Many of the dead from the global workforce were frontline workers. As at the third week of October 2021, more than 180,000 health workers world over had lost their lives to COVID-19.

"The high rate of fatality is unfortunate but also highlights the sacrifice that workers have made in combating and containing this deadly virus. Many more workers have their jobs and means of livelihood to COVID-19."

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Wabba said the biggest lesson of the pandemic is that amidst the worst crisis, the human race can rise to the challenge with great resourcefulness and resilience.

According to him, apart from accelerated scientific efforts at understanding the epidemiology of the virus, science has raised the bar with the breakthrough discovery of the vaccine for COVID-19 which has helped reduce the death rate and hospital admissions.

He said that a study conducted by the United States Centre for Disease Control at the end of May 2021 showed that there was about 63% drop in hospital visitations after the introduction of the COVID-19 vaccine.

"There was also a 63% drop in hospital admissions post vaccination and 66% drop in mortality for those aged 18 - 49 after the vaccination.

"I understand some people prefer to view COVID-19 vaccination with caution. Yes, it is important to proceed on issues of public health with great caution. Yet, it would be foolhardy to elevate caution above scientific evidence and facts from public health records," he said.
The Interim Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), Col. Milland Dixon Dikio (retd), has ascribed the resurgence of militancy in the Niger Delta region to drug abuse.

Dikio, while speaking during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig.-Gen. Muhammad Buba Marwa (rtd), urged the agency to take urgent steps to curb the emerging threat in the region.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Nneotaobase Egbe, on Monday, Dikio said the partnership between NDLEA and PAP would drastically reduce cases of drug abuse and reposition minds of the youths for more productive ventures to sustain the peace and development in the region.

He said: "We have a unique challenge in the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP) that of managing ex-militants; we call them ex-agitators. We want to take active measures to not only manage the present ex-agitators, but to pre-empt and stop the pipeline vandalism that leads to deviant behaviour and militancy.

"It goes without saying that some of these people get their motivation by using or abusing substances, so we want to key into what you are doing on the arrest side and learn what we can do on the prevention side."

Responding, Marwa promised that the NDLEA would partner with PAP to curb the intake of hard drugs and other banned substances by youths in the Niger Delta.

He decried the wave of drug-induced crime in the country, especially among youths noting that the collaboration between PAP and his agency would focus on sensitisation and counselling programmes as a major preventive measure to curb the menace.

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While identifying poverty as the main cause of drug abuse in Nigeria, the NDLEA boss explained that criminals used drugs to embolden themselves before embarking on any criminal activity.

He said: " We have also found that the students, bandits, kidnappers, rapists, down the line youths, militants, use drugs and we will be very happy to collaborate with the Amnesty Programme.

"We don't need to wait for people to become drug addicts first; the majority have not used drugs, others have tasted but are not addicted to it. The ex-agitators are also normal human beings that will like to marry and raise families.

"The advice we give that will deal with the drug problem is to find some source of income for them through skills acquisition and if it is affordable, some kind of wage structure," he said.
Blog

Malagi is a rural community in Gbako Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State with a population of about two thousand people. However, the only Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in the community has been in a deplorable condition for over ten years. According to Muhammad Abdullahi, the in charge of the PHC, the facility lacks all the basic needs to function. "There is no toilet, when there is need, health workers and patients make use of the bush" he said. He added that the PHC has only one bed with no mattress. In addition, there is no source of water in the PHC, and there is no electricity either. "The worse situation is that the floor of the facility is not cemented. So, we provide healthcare on sandy ground"

Usman Yunusa is a resident of Malagi. He narrated that the PHC is not meeting the healthcare needs of the community members. According to Yunusa, the condition of the PHC is leaving them with no option but to seek healthcare from traditional medicine healers. "Most of our women do not go for antenatal due to the condition of the facility. When they are to deliver, they are attended to by traditional birth attendants except when the condition is serious then we take them to the hospital in Lemu or Wushishi General Hospital", Yunusa further narrated.

Amina Usman, another resident of the community said most women do not go to the PHC for antenatal because their needs are not provided for at the facility. "No drugs, no toilet, nothing. It is not a health facility".

Malagi PHC could best be described as a mere broken structure. It does not only lack almost every need of a health facility; it also doesn't have the confidence of the community it is meant to serve. Gbako LGA and Niger State government should carry out a complete rehabilitation of the PHC and equip it with necessary facilities, equipment, medications, and manpower. Through that, the confidence of the community in the PHC will be restored and they will perhaps start seeking healthcare from the facility instead of resorting to traditional medicine healers and traditional birth attendants.
The family of the detained Leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra IPOB, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has declared that resolution of the growing agitation for Biafra can only come through negotiations and not by the use of force against agitators.

Prince Emmanuel Kanu who spoke in a media interview urged the federal government to release the IPOB leader and engage him in dialogue, arguing that the issues he raised are germane.

His words:" Nnamdi Kanu is only asking for three things - justice, equity and fairness. You can't achieve peace with guns and bullets. It's impossible!

" Dialogue is the only way out. We are Biafrans. You can't take that away from us. Nnamdi Kanu is the face of agitation because the issues he is raising are genuine.

" People are no longer happy. The only person they can listen to is Nnamdi Kanu. If they are telling you to release him so that they can stop what they are doing, why can't you harken to the voice of the people?

" What I want is fairness, equity and justice. If Biafra will bring me that, that's what I stand for. But make no mistakes, where my brother stands, that is where I stand!"

According to Kanu's family some selfish politicians who see the IPOB Leader as a threat want him to be held perpetually behind bars.

"Some of the politicians are not being truthful to the powers in Abuja. They are working hard to make sure Nnamdi Kanu is not released."

" So, what is playing out is that those who were benefiting from what was happening before now are the people selling the wrong narrative about Nnamdi Kanu."

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He said that contrary to blackmails in some quarters, the Eastern Security Network ESN established by Kanu was inuagurated to contain attacks by killer herdsmen and bandits.

" ESN is designed to remain in our bushes and protect our farm lands and boundaries against invading terrorsists. That's why ESN was established."

Kanu's family further said that some fifth columnists are behind the insecurity in South East in their desperation to implicate IPOB.

" How about what happened in Owerri where a police officer shot a security personnel thinking he was an unknown gunman? How do you reconcile that?

"We play very dirty politics in Nigeria. You see a political party killing members of another political party and at the end of the day they tag in on IPOB. But we are not buying into that.

The family also said that IPOB founded by Kanu remains a non violent movement seeking the restoration of Biafra contrary to blackmails by those against the movement.

"When you want to hang a dog you give it a bad name. IPOB is not a violent group but a peaceful movement.

" When people choose to stay at home and some others take a walk to their business centres, what happens is that one or two politicians will send people to go and kill them and tag it on IPOB."

Vanguard News Nigeria
Mr Fashola also called for the audit of all the assets that have been concessioned or privatised in the country.

The Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, has said the current administration abandoned the Public Private Partnership (PPP) on major infrastructure projects, including the Second Niger Bridge, and the Lagos-Ibadan expressway because investors could not secure needed funding from banks.

Mr Fashola, a former Lagos State governor, called for the audit of the existing concession agreements between the federal government and investors.

The minister spoke on Monday at the public hearing by the House of Representatives Committee on Privatisation in Abuja..

This disclosure by Mr Fashola is coming in the wake of the planned concessioning of major highways in the country.

PREMIUM TIMES had reported that the government plans to concession the National Arts Theatre, Tafawa Balewa Square, and all the River Basin Development Authorities at N836 million while the National Stadium in Lagos, the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja, and two others were pegged for concessioning at N100 million, to fund 2021 budget deficit.

In the 2022 Appropriation Bill, the federal government is planning to get N90.3 billion from privatisation proceeds.

"We cannot do and discuss PPPs in isolation of our economy, whether at the national, state, regional or global," he said.

"Let us take two highways that we offered for PPP. The second Niger bridge was conceived as a PPP. The Lagos-Ibadan expressway was conceived as a PPP. But if we had asked a very basic question at the time - N200 billion plus projects -- which bank in Nigeria has ever lent N200 billion to any individual? We asked that question and we knew that it was not the way to go. They might have lent it but inevitably, it was more likely that they would have come back for a sovereign guarantee.

"If you are guaranteeing something, you might as well do it yourself. So, in the end, what happened? The Lagos-Ibadan expressway in 2006 and the second Niger bridge in 2010, nothing significantly happened on those projects until 2016. So, we lost like 10 years before this administration now started funding directly," the minister said.

He also raised questions on the concession done so far by the government, noting that there is a need to probe if the efforts have achieved the desired outcomes.

"The first thing I want to ask is that, of all the assets that we have disposed of and the reasons for disposing them or for commercialising them or for privatising them, have we achieved the objective that we set out to achieve? I think we should ask that question," he said.

"And I think apart from making this law, that undertaking would be a profound service to Nigeria, so that all of us will have a very clear understanding of the capacity, ability and what is realistic to expect of the private sector.

"Indeed, in our last (ministerial) retreat, this subject came up and I admitted to it that, 'where is the private sector?' I came from there; the vice-president (Yemi Osinbajo) came from there; the president came from there; many of us came from there. We are all here (in public service) now. So, who are we handing it back to?

"But I think that it would be helpful to have an audit of all the assets that have been concessioned or privatised in the name of improved efficiency and then to ask, 'have we achieved that objective?' I think if we do that and interrogate very honestly, some of the things that would begin to become obvious to us is that we need to be more circumspect about certain types of assets.

"There are certain types of assets that the private sector is just unable to deal with. For example, when you look at roads, not many people who claim to want to do it have the capacity or the experience to do it.

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"Let us start with the Lekki-Epe expressway which was concessioned. The concession agreement -- members of this committee might want to know --was signed in 2005. I was chief of staff (to Governor Bola Tinubu) then.

"They did not reach financial close until 2010 -- that was five years. So, between 2007 when I became governor and 2010, the road had to start. So, for an asset we had concessioned, the Lagos State Government had to first go and borrow money to start the work meant to be concessioned.

"In terms of political arrangement, you never have five years; you have (a tenure of) four years. And within the first three years, if you are not showing results, you are going to meet the electorate. So, these are some of the real challenges when we have these expectations."
Drive program presenter Geoff Hutchison said on ABC Radio Perth the news had come as a huge shock.

Russell Woolf has died. ABC

Since 1994, Mr Woolf worked on radio, television, as an MC at big events in Perth, as a host, guest speaker, conference convenor and voiceover artist.

Mr Woolfs former co-host Nadia Mitsopolous took over Mr Woolfs regular breakfast slot but it wasnt until 8.45am that his death was announced.

Hutchison said Mr Woolf, who was on air as late as yesterday morning, died early on Tuesday and described him as a wonderful, funny and loving man.

Its come as a huge shock to us. Weve only just learned of his passing in the last few hours and its still sinking in, he said.

Everyone here at ABC Radio Perth, as you can imagine is in shock, trying to make sense of it.

Russell, as you know, was a much loved and much-cherished part of our ABC Family, and were going to battle to find words for a little while this morning.

His death prompted an outpouring of grief from listeners and former colleagues on ABCs Mornings program.

Edith Cowan University journalism lecturer and fellow broadcaster Andrea Burns said Mr Woolfs death was devastating

Russ was only here at ECU last week to do something with one of our students, he was kind and generous and hilarious and gosh we loved him, he said.

He would rock in to do what he called his annual lecture to my students. This year, he came with his good thongs on, his shorts, and a gingham shirt.

He had the students enthralled for the better part of about two hours.

The veteran broadcaster spent more than two decades with the national broadcaster and was the weather presenter for its WA newsroom from 2007 to 2011.

He also hosted the Drive program before moving to Minneapolis, USA in 2015.

In 2019, he returned to the ABC to take on the breakfast shift with Mitsopolous.

The duo split to take on back-to-back shows this year.

Mr Woolf had a passion for encouraging regular people to tell their own unique stories.

Famous people can tell famously good stories, and theyre great, but do you know whats even better? Its regular people being encouraged to tell their own unique stories, he wrote on his LinkedIn profile.

I know how to extract those stories, how to engage with an audience and to ease people into sharing their own remarkable stories.

WA Premier Mark McGowan said in a tweet that for many West Australians, Mr Woolfs death would feel like the loss of a friend.

His unique and iconic voice, wit and personality made him beloved by countless Western Australians. For many of us, whether we knew him personally or not, it will feel like weve lost a friend today, he said.

Mr Woolf is survived by his wife Kylie and daughter Bronte.
"Public investment will grow 20% in 2021, and we expect that it will grow 4.5% next year," he stated during the 2021 Economic Forum: "Confidence for economic development: managing change" organized by the American Chamber of Commerce of Peru (Amcham).





Likewise, the expert highlighted the dynamism of Peru's economy last August as it stood above the pre-pandemic level.





"In August, we were already above (the levels of) 2019. To a large extent, it has recovered from a sharp fall. We have witnessed an extremely fast recovery," he pointed out.





"Last week, the (International) Monetary Fund released a (2021) growth projection of 11% for Peru," he stressed.





Furthermore, the BCR governor indicated that private investment will expand 24.5% in 2021. However, a growth of 0% is expected for next year.





"Private investment this year is coming extremely strong, expanding 24.5%, with non-mining investment growing almost 26%," he indicated.





Recovered employment





Concerning employment, the BCR governor pointed out that the amount of formal jobs in August 2021 is above that corresponding to August 2019.





"(...) We can see that we are already, in terms of formal jobs (public and private sectors), above pre-pandemic levels," Velarde commented.




15:10 | Lima, Oct. 25.

"We will act in terms of reducing supply and demand, but in a sustainable way over time. We are fed up with the permanent cycle of eradicated crops/replanted crops that has been occurring in the high jungle," she expressed during a Congress' plenary session.





According to the Cabinet Chief, the Executive Branch wants to achieve under the leadership of a strengthened National Commission for Development and Life without Drugs (Devida)  binding agreements with producers for a new registration and the adoption of a social control which helps to comply with the law, as well as reduce coca areas and its production, promoting the alternative crops policy.





"In coordination with the rest of sectors, we will prioritize what can do the most harm to drug trafficking: identifying illicit money, as well as external signs of wealth, and large drug shipments," the high-ranking official indicated.





"We cannot rule out any public policy option to improve on the 30-year record of past policies which had been unsuccessful," she said.





In this sense, "we are going to review the control and supervision regimen for coca crops, which began in 1978."





"Eradication will always be an available strategy," she concluded.



As is known, Mirtha Vasquez officially became Prime Minister on October 6 to lead the Cabinet under the administration of President Pedro Castillo.

According to Article 130 of the Constitution, the Prime Minister must attend Congress joined by the Cabinet to present and debate the Government's General Policy within 30 days after having been sworn in to office.



(END) VVS/CVC/MVB
" " A captive tiger at the Walter Zoo in Gossau, Switzerland. Tigers are perilously close to extinction in the wild. Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-ND 2.0)

A subspecies is an isolated group of one organism on a slow path to becoming a new, distinct species. For instance, the world is currently home to only one species of tiger, Panthera tigris, which has existed for between 1 and 2 million years. Any tiger alive today could mate with any other tiger and produce viable offspring  that's essentially the definition of a species. However, the tigers on the Indonesian island of Sumatra have been isolated on an island for over 12,000 years, where they have become around 10 percent smaller than tigers on the mainland of Asia. They're the same, but different.

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From 100,000 to 4,000 in 100 Years

This time last century, an estimated 100,000 tigers roamed their vast historical range, from the Caspian Sea, up to Siberia, all the way down to India and into the islands of Indonesia. Only 4,000 tigers remain in the wild today, covering just about 7 percent of their historical range. But a report published Oct. 25, 2018, in the journal Current Biology suggests that we're not only losing tigers, we're losing six distinct subspecies of tiger in Asia. Yes, it's depressing, but this information might also be key to conserving them.

If left to their own devices, tigers are hearty animals. Females have a litter of cubs every two to three years, and under good conditions, two to four cubs will survive. When you do that math, you find 10 tigers can pretty easily become 100 tigers over the course of a decade. The problem is, these big cats don't particularly like each other.

"They're solitary animals  the males retain huge territories of up to 150 square miles (400 square km), and they'll try to kill each other if they meet," says Dr. Matthew Luskin, a tiger researcher in the Asian School of the Environment at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, who was not involved in the study. "The females within these territories compete for resources, too."

According to Luskin, tigers move astoundingly quickly through jungle habitat  you, frail human, could probably only walk about 6 miles (10 kilometers) a day through Sumatran rainforest, where a tiger can cover between 18 and 30 miles (30 and 50 kilometers) in the same amount of time. Point being, tigers do pretty well for themselves if they have enough space (and if they aren't killed by poachers, which is another tiger problem).

So, if tigers do well by themselves without human meddling, it follows there must be a way to convince governments that they need to give tigers more space, right? And though the world is currently home to only one species of tiger, the authors show there are six unique subspecies occupying the farflung reaches of Asia. It's one thing to lose Panthera tigris from Russia, but it's quite another when you frame it in terms of losing the Amur tiger, which is different from the Bengal, the Sumatran, the Indochinese, the Malayan, and the South China tigers. When you look at it this way, you'll notice that the Caspian, Javan and Bali tigers have already disappeared.

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The Numbers Controversy

Although researchers and conservationists have talked about the distinct populations of tigers for years, there has been controversy about how many tiger subspecies there actually are.

"The tiger subspecies controversy traces back to the PLoS [Public Library of Science] Biology paper we published in 2004 that showed, based on partial genomic analyses, that tigers constitute six living subspecies," writes lead author Dr. Shu-Jin Luo, a geneticist in the School of Life Sciences at Peking University, in an email. "Other researchers challenged the findings, countering that morphological and ecological evidence pointed to fewer subspecies distinctions. Now, more affordable and robust genomic technologies allowed us to greatly strengthen the evidence affirming six living subspecies."

According to Luo and her co-authors, the proliferation of tiger subspecies in Asia has a lot to do with glaciation and good, old fashioned climate change. As the climate changes  and it's constantly going through these cycles of warming and cooling  animals are able to travel in different ways and occupy different spots on the globe. For instance, about 12,000 to 50,000 years ago during the last glacial maximum, the temperatures were so cool, there wasn't as much great tiger habitat as there had been during warmer times.

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How the Species Subdivided

However, as sea levels dropped because more water was locked up in ice, the tigers walked from the mainland of Asia, to the islands of Sumatra, all the way to Java because they were all connected at the time. At the end of the glacial period, those groups of tigers that had founded separate populations got stuck on these islands, or way up in Siberia, or down in India. They started changing as a result  the populations become distinct over the course of thousands of generations.

"That's interesting, but not really surprising," says Luskin. "But what this research does is bring a lot more data to bear on this issue of tiger subspecies."

Which will hopefully help scientists and governments understand the ways in which these animals can best be protected.

"Tigers are not all alike," writes Luo. "Tigers from Russia are evolutionarily distinct from those from India  even tigers from Malaysia and Thailand are different. We should respect such uniqueness if possible and avoid admixing across different subspecies, because they represent the wonder of nature derived from long-term evolution, divergence and adaptation. However, when it comes to an extreme conservation dilemma in which reintroduction of tigers from elsewhere is required in order to restore a landscape, then we would advocate selecting candidate source individuals for cross-breeding or release, from an evolutionarily close lineage."

Now That's Interesting More money is spent on tiger conservation than on any other threatened species in the world.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. The tactical military exercises of the Armenian-Russian Joint Troops Formation show that the Armenian-Russian military alliance is still active and continues strengthening, military analyst and Deputy Director of the Moscow Institute for Political and Military Analysis Alexander Khramchikhin told ARMENPRESS in an interview.

The unified formation of the Armenian and Russian militaries is holding the drills since October 22.

There cant be troops without exercises, training and improvement, he said. If there are armed forces, then they must continuously train, or else get disbanded. Therefore, from a military perspective alone this is absolutely a normal occurrence. But if we are talking about not one but the cooperation of armed forces of two countries, then moreover there is the need to develop joint military actions with practical training, Khramchikhin said.

Speaking about the political aspect of the exercises, the analyst noted that even if the drills dont have any political subtexts all neighboring countries will nevertheless perceive them as the strengthening of the Armenia-Russia military alliance.

In this case, nevertheless the principle matter is the political aspect. If a unified formation of troops exists, then who is the commander of the formation and what happens during wartime? I dont know what the specific scenario of the exercises is, but it is obvious that there are no adversaries other than Azerbaijan and Turkey. Its clear isnt it that Georgia cant be Armenia and Russias adversary, thats not serious. Therefore, theres no one left other than Azerbaijan and Turkey, Khramchikhin added.

In a broader sense the Armenia-Azerbaijan confrontation  which the allies of Armenia and Azerbaijan touch upon in various ways, fits into a broader regional and geopolitical competition picture where the main actors are the three active parties of the Syrian crisis resolution  Russia, Turkey and Iran, according to Khramchikhin.

According to Khramchikhin, after the 2020 Artsakh war the three abovementioned countries are fighting  overtly or sometimes covertly  for a new alignment of forces in the region, a so-called new status-quo. Thats why, he said, albeit the cessation of hostilities in Nagorno Karabakh the situation in Southern Caucasus remains tense.

Meanwhile, the Turkish-Azerbaijani aggressive alliance doesnt stop it destructive actions in the region by regularly holding military exercises in occupied territories of Artsakh or in Nakhijevan.

The military analyst further noted that two of the mentioned Syrian troika  Russia and Iran, are essentially opposing Turkey particularly in terms of their attitude for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But at the same time, Moscow has to maintain good relations with Ankara due to the Syrian conflict, energy issues and overall general geopolitical processes.

Nevertheless, Russia categorically doesnt want to allow the presence of Turkish troops in Azerbaijan, he added. But on the other hand, Azerbaijan is playing its own game and during the Aliyev presidency Azerbaijan wont be a 100% puppet of Turkey, Khramchikhin stressed.

This is a very big game which has multiple nuances. Moreover, Russia doesnt want to see Turkish troops in Azerbaijan in any case, but at the same time doesnt want to completely ruin its relations with Turkey. Although in my opinion eventually this wont be possible to avoid, but for now Russia is doing everything to maximally delay that moment, Khramchikhin said.

Interview by Aram Sargsyan

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. President of Lebanon Michel Aoun received new Patriarch of the Armenian Catholic House of Cilicia, Raphael Minassian at Baabda Palace, discussing the domestic situation in Lebanon, the National News Agency of Lebanon reports citing the Presidential Press Office.

The Armenian Patriarch was accompanied by a delegation of bishops and fathers, in a visit of thanks.

President Aoun also congratulated Patriarch Minassian on his inauguration, wishing him success in his new ecclesiastical responsibilities.

In his remarks the President of Lebanon stressed that the repercussions of the recent security incidents have ended, and that there is no return to the civil war in Lebanon, despite the existence of a permanent disturbance of the general atmosphere in the country.

The President also emphasized the need to establish a megacenter to facilitate the voting process in the upcoming parliamentary elections, in light of the current financial hardship which may prevent many from reaching their areas to vote, which leads to the election of a parliament with a very low voter turnout.

Regarding ongoing investigations into the explosion in the port of Beirut, the President stressed the independence of the judiciary in this regard, and the need for politicians not to interfere in its course.

For his side, Patriarch Minassian thanked President Aoun for his kind gesture, hoping that God would help him at this stage to carry out his responsibilities, bring hearts closer and awaken the consciences of all officials, to cross Lebanon to the shore of safety.

Minassian also stressed that members of the Armenian Catholic community in Lebanon are always ready to serve their country, in a way that enhances the unity of the people and builds the state


YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. On October 26, the delegation led by Speaker of Parliament of Armenia Alen Simonyan met with Chair of Cyprus-Armenia Inter-Parliamentary Committee on Cooperation Harris Georgiades, the Armenian Parliaments press service said.

At the meeting the political dialogue of high level between Armenia-Cyprus friendly countries was highlighted. The sides affirmed the priority of the parliamentary diplomacy reserved in the inter-state relations, highly assessing the cooperation between parliaments. In this context the activity of the Inter-Parliamentary Committees on Cooperation functioning in parliaments of the two countries was especially underlined. Alen Simonyan has informed about the formation of Armenia-Cyprus Inter-Parliamentary Committee on Cooperation in the near future, which is a perspective direction for the advancement of the united agendas.

The interlocutors underlined the effective cooperation of the two countries parliamentarians on the international platforms to reach the favourable solution of special importance issues. The Parliament Speaker stressed the cooperation with Cyprus in the context of the development of Armenia-European Union relations.

At the meeting the necessity of the use of Cyprus-Armenia-Greece parliamentary cooperation format was emphasized. The Chair of Cyprus-Armenia Inter-Parliamentary Committee on Cooperation underscored that Alen Simonyans official visit would promote the further deepening and development of the inter-parliamentary and inter-state relations of the friendly countries.
YEREVAN, 26 OCTOBER, ARMENPRESS. The Central Bank of Armenia informs Armenpress that today, 26 October, USD exchange rate up by 0.46 drams to 476.94 drams. EUR exchange rate down by 0.76 drams to 554.01 drams. Russian Ruble exchange rate up by 0.13 drams to 6.88 drams. GBP exchange rate up by 0.20 drams to 657.89 drams.

The Central Bank has set the following prices for precious metals.

Gold price up by 424.23 drams to 27681.66 drams. Silver price up by 2.59 drams to 373.77 drams. Platinum price up by 61.43 drams to 16039.34 drams.
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian paid a working visit to Saudi Arabia, ARMENPRESS reports the Presidents administration informed, noting that October 26, 2021 will become a unique page in the history of Armenian-Arabic and particularly Armenia-Saudi Arabia relations.

This unprecedented event will definitely be a turning point in Armenias international relations. Under the condition of absence of diplomatic relations between Armenia and Saudi Arabia, when no Armenian official had ever visited that country since Armenias independence, the President of Armenia made a historical step, for the first time visiting that country, which has an exclusive importance in the Arabic and Islamic world, reads the message released by the Presidents Office.

At the airport in the capital of Saudi Arabia, Armenian President Armen Sarkissian was welcomed at the highest state level in the person of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia Adel al-Jubeir, and according to the official protocol, the state flag of the Republic of Armenia was raised at the airport.
The tactical military exercises of the Armenian-Russian Joint Troops Formation show that the Armenian-Russian military alliance is still active and continues strengthening, military analyst and Deputy Director of the Moscow Institute for Political and Military Analysis Alexander Khramchikhin told ARMENPRESS in an interview.

October 26, 2021, 09:31 Armenian-Russian alliance has no adversaries in the region other than Azerbaijan and Turkey  military expert on drills

STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 26, ARTSAKHPRESS-ARMENPRESS: The unified formation of the Armenian and Russian militaries is holding the drills since October 22.

There cant be troops without exercises, training and improvement, he said. If there are armed forces, then they must continuously train, or else get disbanded. Therefore, from a military perspective alone this is absolutely a normal occurrence. But if we are talking about not one but the cooperation of armed forces of two countries, then moreover there is the need to develop joint military actions with practical training, Khramchikhin said.

Speaking about the political aspect of the exercises, the analyst noted that even if the drills dont have any political subtexts all neighboring countries will nevertheless perceive them as the strengthening of the Armenia-Russia military alliance.

In this case, nevertheless the principle matter is the political aspect. If a unified formation of troops exists, then who is the commander of the formation and what happens during wartime? I dont know what the specific scenario of the exercises is, but it is obvious that there are no adversaries other than Azerbaijan and Turkey. Its clear isnt it that Georgia cant be Armenia and Russias adversary, thats not serious. Therefore, theres no one left other than Azerbaijan and Turkey, Khramchikhin added.

In a broader sense the Armenia-Azerbaijan confrontation  which the allies of Armenia and Azerbaijan touch upon in various ways, fits into a broader regional and geopolitical competition picture where the main actors are the three active parties of the Syrian crisis resolution  Russia, Turkey and Iran, according to Khramchikhin.

According to Khramchikhin, after the 2020 Artsakh war the three abovementioned countries are fighting  overtly or sometimes covertly  for a new alignment of forces in the region, a so-called new status-quo. Thats why, he said, albeit the cessation of hostilities in Nagorno Karabakh the situation in Southern Caucasus remains tense.

Meanwhile, the Turkish-Azerbaijani aggressive alliance doesnt stop it destructive actions in the region by regularly holding military exercises in occupied territories of Artsakh or in Nakhijevan.

The military analyst further noted that two of the mentioned Syrian troika  Russia and Iran, are essentially opposing Turkey particularly in terms of their attitude for Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But at the same time, Moscow has to maintain good relations with Ankara due to the Syrian conflict, energy issues and overall general geopolitical processes.

Nevertheless, Russia categorically doesnt want to allow the presence of Turkish troops in Azerbaijan, he added. But on the other hand, Azerbaijan is playing its own game and during the Aliyev presidency Azerbaijan wont be a 100% puppet of Turkey, Khramchikhin stressed.

This is a very big game which has multiple nuances. Moreover, Russia doesnt want to see Turkish troops in Azerbaijan in any case, but at the same time doesnt want to completely ruin its relations with Turkey. Although in my opinion eventually this wont be possible to avoid, but for now Russia is doing everything to maximally delay that moment, Khramchikhin said.
The United Kingdoms current relations with Russia are not the way London would like to see, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said during a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday, Tass informs.

October 26, 2021, 09:50 British PM tells Putin Russia-UK relationship "is not the one" London wants

STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 26, ARTSAKHPRESS: "The Prime Minister was clear that the UKs current relationship with Russia is not the one we want. He said significant bilateral difficulties remain, including the poisonings in Salisbury in 2018. The Prime Minister also underscored the importance of Ukrainian sovereignty," a Downing Street spokesperson said after their telephone call.

The Kremlin said after the conversation that the two leaders exchanged views on the current situation in bilateral relations and "expressed a common opinion that despite the existing problems Moscow and London should establish cooperation in a number of areas." According to the Kremlin, the sides agreed to "maintain necessary contacts on the issues touched upon during the conversation."

Putins previous telephone conversation with Johnson took place on May 8, 2020. Back then, the sides also expressed readiness to establish dialogue and cooperate on issues on the agenda of Russian-British relations and on current international problems.

The Russian president and the British prime minister met in January 2020 on the sidelines of the international conference on Libya in Berlin. It was their first and only personal meeting.

If the British version of the affair is to be believed, former Russian military intelligence (GRU) Colonel Sergey Skripal, 66, who had been convicted in Russia of spying for Great Britain and later swapped for Russian intelligence officers, and his daughter Yulia, 33, suffered the effects of a nerve agent in the British city of Salisbury on March 4, 2018. Claiming that the substance used in the attack had been a Novichok-class nerve agent developed in the Soviet Union, London rushed to accuse Russia of being involved in the incident. Moscow rejected all of the United Kingdoms accusations, saying that neither the Soviet Union nor Russia ever had any program aimed at developing such an agent. Notably, Britains military chemical laboratory at Porton Down near Salisbury said it failed to trace the origin of the substance that poisoned Sergey and Yulia Skripals.
Moscow is optimistic about the prospects of investing in Armenia's economy. This opinion was expressed by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko in an interview with RIA Novosti, news.am informs.

October 26, 2021, 11:04 Russia MFA: Moscow is optimistic about prospects of investing in Armenia

STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 26, ARTSAKHPRESS: "The prospects of our economic cooperation are not bad. We are quite optimistic about these prospects, and believe that Armenia truly has a number of domains that would be appealing to Russian investors, including large investors," Rudenko said.

Earlier, Russian Deputy Minister of Economic Development Dmitry Volvach had said that Russia's $2.2 billion in investments in Armenia would soon increase by another $1 billion. He had added that these funds will be directed to energy, infrastructure, and transport.
President of Lebanon Michel Aoun received new Patriarch of the Armenian Catholic House of Cilicia, Raphael Minassian at Baabda Palace, discussing the domestic situation in Lebanon, the National News Agency of Lebanon reports citing the Presidential Press Office.

October 26, 2021, 15:52 Lebanese President discusses domestic situation with new Armenian Catholic Patriarch

STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 26, ARTSAKHPRESS: The Armenian Patriarch was accompanied by a delegation of bishops and fathers, in a visit of thanks.

President Aoun also congratulated Patriarch Minassian on his inauguration, wishing him success in his new ecclesiastical responsibilities.

In his remarks the President of Lebanon stressed that the repercussions of the recent security incidents have ended, and that there is no return to the civil war in Lebanon, despite the existence of a permanent disturbance of the general atmosphere in the country.

The President also emphasized the need to establish a megacenter to facilitate the voting process in the upcoming parliamentary elections, in light of the current financial hardship which may prevent many from reaching their areas to vote, which leads to the election of a parliament with a very low voter turnout.

Regarding ongoing investigations into the explosion in the port of Beirut, the President stressed the independence of the judiciary in this regard, and the need for politicians not to interfere in its course.

For his side, Patriarch Minassian thanked President Aoun for his kind gesture, hoping that God would help him at this stage to carry out his responsibilities, bring hearts closer and awaken the consciences of all officials, to cross Lebanon to the shore of safety.

Minassian also stressed that members of the Armenian Catholic community in Lebanon are always ready to serve their country, in a way that enhances the unity of the people and builds the state
During a meeting with Abdul Ghani Baradar (appointed Vice-President of the ad-hoc Cabinet of Afghanistan by the radical Taliban) in Doha, Qatar, Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on the U.S. and Western countries to lift the sanctions imposed against Afghanistan, news.am informs, citing TASS.

October 26, 2021, 16:59 China FM calls on US to lift sanctions against Afghanistan

STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 26, ARTSAKHPRESS: China attaches great importance to the humanitarian hardships that Afghanistan is currently facing, and calls on the U.S. and Western countries to lift the sanctions, the website of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reports. The minister stated that all the parties need to cooperate reasonably and pragmatically with the Taliban of Afghanistan to help Afghanistan move on the path to favorable development.

According to him, China has never interfered in the domestic affairs of Afghanistan and has never sought to have personal interest and an influence zone. He added that China supports the Afghan peoples efforts for stabilization and reconstruction.

The Chinese foreign minister also voiced hope that the Taliban will be open and in solidarity with all the fractions and ethnic groups in the country for the sake of peaceful recovery, protection of the lawful rights and interests of women and children and will stay true to the friendly-neighborly policy and help build a modern country.
Rhinoceros beetles are one of the greatest threats to oil palm crops, attacking plants while they are young and potentially lowering a farms yield for years. They also affect workers health, since pesticides need to be sprayed frequently. Based in Kuala Lumpur, Poladrone wants to change the way farms use pesticides with a combination of drones and automation and analytics software.

The company announced today it has raised a $4.29 million seed round led by Wavemaker Partners, which it says is the largest seed round ever raised in Malaysia, based on data from Crunchbase. Other participants include the Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC), which is wholly owned by Khazanah Nasional Berhad, the Malaysian governments sovereign wealth fund; ZB Capital Limited; and angel investors.

Founded in 2016 by Cheong Jin Xi, Poladrone now operates in Malaysia and Thailand and plans to expand into Indonesia, the worlds largest oil palm producer. Cheong told TechCrunch that Poladrone is profitable, but decided to seek funding after the COVID-19 pandemic hit and highlighted the positive impact our technology has on agriculture communities by creating jobs and upskilling opportunities.

Adoption of Poladrones drones also increased during labor shortages caused by the pandemic, and the startup grew its team from 20 people to over 80 in less than a year to meet demand. Its seed round will be used for more hiring and to scale operations and to build more service centers in agricultural areas, where clients can buy equipment and spare parts.

Cheong first became interested in drones when he was a high school student in Melbourne, Australia, and it led to him pursuing an aerospace engineering degree at university.

After Cheong returned to Malaysia, he began looking at potential applications for drone technology and realized the agriculture industry made perfect sense, because drones can fly over large terrain to perform repetitive tasks autonomously, and their cameras also capture a large amount of data.

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Cheongs interest in agritech was also inspired by growing up in Kuala Lipis, an agricultural town in the state of Pahang. Many of his family members and relatives are involved in farming, and his early insights went into the development of Poladrones products.

Rhinoceros beetles are a serious problem during the first three years of an oil palms 25-year lifecycle, he said, because attacks hurt trees growth, delaying them from reaching maturity -- and sometimes killing plants.

The issue is that once the surrounding oil palms matures, replanting is no longer possible which means that any space wasted on a dead palm would be wasted for the next 22 years, Cheong said. As a result, oil palm farms usually need to perform preventative pesticide spraying every two weeks for the first two years after oil palms are planted, then every month until they mature. This is often done by workers with knapsack sprayers or on tractors.

One of Poladrone's Service Centers

One of Poladrone's Service Centers. Image Credits: Poladrone

In 2020, the company launched Oryctes, developed with support from Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, for precision spot spraying of rhinoceros beetles and other pests. It also recently launched Mist Drone, which blanket sprays open field crops, like paddies, corn and bananas.

Most of the oil palm farms Poladrone works with are mid-to-large size, or about 5,000 hectares and above. Data analytics and automation becomes extremely important for farms once they reach this scale, Cheong said. He added that oil palm farms cover 18.7 million hectares around the world, and Poladrone sees a serviceable addressable market of 4.2 million hectares in Malaysia alone, worth over $1.3 billion per year. The company is also planning to expand its reach to other types of crops, like rice, corn and sugarcane.

In addition to selling its products, Poladrones Service Centers also provide repairs, training and workshops, with the goal of increasing drone adoption. Cheong said it typically takes one week of training before workers start using Poladrones equipment, which can be operated from smartphones.

In statement about investment, Wavemaker Partners general partner Gavin Lee said, Poladrone now works with eight out of 10 of the biggest palm oil farms in Malaysia  an impressive feat that gives us confidence to back the team and their vision of propelling Southeast Asias agriculture industry.
Due to the high number of responses I received from last months column, "Pet abandonment and overpopulation in Auburn," I thought it best to follow up with some controversial spay-and-neuter stats and some local support for the prevention of unwanted litters and animals in Auburn. Unfortunately, this does not directly address issues of why humans do these things to innocent animals. It does address overpopulation prevention and overpopulation's effect on the increased potential for abandonment, abuse, neglect, unwanted litters and the feral population. Euthanasia has not worked to limit or control pet overpopulation, diminish kill shelters or reduce homelessness. Spaying and neutering does.

A controversial topic: When is it safe to spay or neuter pets?

Many animal shelters and humane associations see the gruesome facts of abandoned, abused, neglected and unwanted animals firsthand. As a previous animal cruelty investigator, I can relate to you that these animals suffer tremendously, and these are only the animals we see. Because of this, animal shelters, humane associations and their employees generally recommend:

 Female cats to be spayed at eight weeks.

 Male cats to be neutered at 12 weeks.

 Female dogs to be spayed at 10 weeks.

 Male dogs to be neutered at 14 weeks.

Animal shelters and humane associations often perform these surgeries at these ages, so that the animals can be sterilized before being adopted.

Many veterinarians recommend:

 Female cats to be spayed at 10 weeks.

 Male cats to be neutered at 12 weeks.

 Female dogs to be spayed at 24 weeks.

 Male dogs to be neutered at 20 weeks.

All agree that the benefits of spaying and neutering pets include:

 Healthier life expectancy.

 Prevention of uterine infections (e.g. pyometra)

 Lower risk of breast tumors, testicular cancer, prostrate issues.

 Prevention of spraying, howling, yowling, wandering.

 Eliminates mounting/humping behavior.

 Decreases the likeliness of aggressive behavior.

 Eliminates the financial and responsibility burden of raising and finding homes for litters.

 Less pregnancies, homelessness, abandonment, abuse, neglect and injury.

Talk to your veterinarian about the pros and cons to determine the best time to spay and neuter your pet, but do not hesitate to adopt a shelter pet that has already been spayed or neutered. The benefits of spaying and neutering, at a young or an older age, far outweigh the issues and concerns of overpopulation, homelessness and health issues.

Auburn is fortunate to have the Finger Lakes SPCA of CNY and a new community cat (feral/stray cat) group called TNR (Trap/Neuter/Release) to support these feral/stray animals.

The Finger Lakes SPCA has been on the front lines of fighting the feral/stray cat issues, as well as canine concerns. They are located at 41 York St. and provide regular clinics for feral/stray cats on the first, second and fourth Fridays of each month.

The Finger Lakes SPCA has a Facebook page that provides current information and updates on all its activities. Contact the SPCA to request a list of all the ways you can assist the shelter (supplies, donations, your time and/or your talents, etc.).

TNR is very new to the area and is just beginning to attack the issue of spaying and neutering feral/stray cats here in Auburn. They are looking into the trapping, spay and neuter surgery, vaccinating and post-surgical requirement needs for feral/stray cats. They need: semi-heated sheds for post-surgical recovery, metal crates, wet (strong-smelling) cat food, urinary pads, volunteers on clinic days and donations ($1,100 spays/neuters approximately 25 cats). Donations of your time and talents are also greatly appreciated. TNR has a Facebook page titled "Auburn NY Community Cats." TNR can also be reached at auburnny.tnr@gmail.com.

Both of these organizations are already or soon will be overwhelmed by the unfortunate large amount of community cats (feral/stray cats) in Auburn. It is getting colder and our winters are brutal on these innocent creatures. We all need to assist them in their efforts and provide much-needed support.

Robin Maurillo, of Auburn, has worked as a veterinary technician and animal cruelty investigator for several years in central New York.

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President Joe Biden has approved a disaster declaration for upstate New York counties, including Cayuga, affected by the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred in August.

The major disaster declaration allows state and local governments to receive federal funding to repair infrastructure damage caused by the storms. Funding is also available for hazard mitigation, according to the White House.

In addition to Cayuga, Allegany, Cortland, Lewis, Oneida, Steuben, Tioga and Yates counties are covered by the declaration.

Im pleased the president has heeded our call to approve a major disaster declaration for Cayuga County and other local communities impacted by Tropical Storm Fred, said U.S. Rep John Katko, who represents Cayuga County.

In Cayuga County, we saw severe rainfall lead to dangerous flash flooding and costly damage to homes and businesses. The approval of this declaration will allow federal aid to be made available through the Federal Emergency Management Agency and ensure our local communities can fully recover from this storm.

Gov. Kathy Hochul requested disaster aid in September. An assessment conducted by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, along with state and local agencies, found the storms and subsequent flooding caused $36.2 million in damage.

For Cayuga County to be eligible for inclusion, it needed to have at least $311,101 in damages. Dale Currier, Cayuga County's director of emergency services, told The Citizen in September that the county met the threshold.

When the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred moved through the region, there was heavy rainfall and significant flooding. Flooding was reported in Auburn and the southern part of Cayuga County. The rainfall in Auburn topped seven inches, according to the National Weather Service. Owasco Lake nearly reached its flood stage.

The floods caused damage to businesses, homes and infrastructure. Some roads were washed out because of the high water levels.

Politics reporter Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding.

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AUBURN  New York Republican Chairman Nick Langworthy has a message for voters reviewing the five questions on the reverse side of the general election ballot: "Just say no."

Langworthy stopped at the Cayuga County Republican Committee's headquarters on Monday to rail against the ballot questions, specifically the election-related amendments that would alter the independent redistricting process and allow for no-excuse absentee voting and same-day voter registration.

One criticism levied by Langworthy against the first ballot proposal is that the independent redistricting commission is in the midst of its work. After the release of 2020 census data over the summer, the commission is in the process of redrawing congressional and state legislative district maps.

The proposed amendment has divided good government groups, some of whom think it would reintroduce partisanship into the redistricting process. The proposal would make it easier for Democrats to sign off on the maps and influence the process.

Langworthy urged voters to vote no on the first question and "keep the process independent."

"It hasn't even gotten a chance to do its job one time yet and they're changing the rules as we go," he added.

The state GOP chair also blasted two other proposals that would make it easier to vote in New York. The third ballot question would clear the way for same-day voter registration by ending the 10-day advance voter registration requirement.

Langworthy argues that same-day voter registration, which has been implemented in 20 states and the District of Columbia, is a "red carpet for voter fraud in this state." He also thinks it would overburden local election boards.

"To create same-day voter registration in this state would be an unmitigated disaster," he said.

He also opposes no-excuse absentee voting. In New York, an excuse is required to obtain an absentee ballot. The possible excuses could include an illness or if you will be out of your county of residence on Election Day.

The fourth question on the ballot would allow voters to request a ballot without needing to provide an excuse. According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, 34 states and D.C. do not require an excuse to vote by absentee ballot.

Langworthy says, with the proposed amendment, Democrats want to "flood the process with mail-in vote."

New York voters will consider two other ballot questions  one that would grant residents the right to clean air, water and a "healthful" environment and another that would increase the New York City Civil Court's jurisdiction to hear cases involving claims of up to $50,000.

While Langworthy's main focus was on the election-related measures, he urged voters to reject the two other questions.

Voters can cast an absentee ballot or vote during the nine-day early voting period, which concludes Sunday. The last chance to vote in the general election is on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 2.

Online producer Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 282-2220 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on Twitter @robertharding.

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Shanghai (Gasgoo)- T3 Mobility, the mobility service platform co-built by FAW Group, Dongfeng Motor, and Changan Automobile, said on Oct. 26 it has nabbed 7.7 billion yuan ($1.206 billion) in the Series A funding, the largest volume ever raised by a ride-hailing service company in China since 2018.



Photo credit: T3 Mobility

The fresh round was led by a CITIC-led consortium, with participation from Yingtong Technology, TravelGo, Redview Capital, Virtue Capital, as well as the returning investors FAW Group, Dongfeng Motor, Changan Automobile, Alibaba Group, and Tencent.

While announcing the close of the new round, T3 Mobility signed a strategic cooperation agreement with CITIC Investment Holdings Ltd. to jointly build a new ecosystem of smart mobility.

As publicly disclosed, since its inception in July 2019, T3 Mobility has to-day launched operations in 41 cities in China with over 54 million registered users, and completed about 370 million safe rides.

The mobility service platform saw its daily order volume exceed 2 million on Sept. 30, representing a hike of over 100% compared to the peak daily level for this year's second quarter.

Under the "4833 Strategy" T3 Mobility released in late December, 2020, the platform aims to expand businesses into 48 cities across China and hit the target of 3 million daily orders by the end of 2021.


Beijing (Gasgoo)- Chinas autonomous driving solutions developer QCraft has recently started the normal operation of three bus routes using its 5G autonomous Robobus that are open to the public in the CBD area of Wuxi City.

The launch ceremony; photo credit: QCraft



QCraft adopted a ride-hailing manner on the newly established urban bus routes, successfully branching out from Robobus to the Robotaxi market. The 5G connected autonomous busses integrated the microcirculation pattern, fixed point pick-up, and ride-hailing model together, creating a brand-new business model for Robobus, said the CEO of QCraft, Yu Qian.

The CEO believed they had shattered the bound between Robotaxi and Robobus, providing a new solution for the last 2-mile challenge.

Photo credit: QCraft

As an emerging public transportation model, manual ride-hailing buses have been tested in several Chinese cities and received positive feedback. QCraft believes the autonomous ride-hailing buses will involve more vehicles and passengers into the city transportation big data, promoting an orderly and efficient interactive city transportation system.

Photo credit: QCraft



The company was permitted to operate the said buses on three microcirculation routes totaling 15 kilometers. The routes cover multiple complex urban scenarios such as office areas, residential areas, schools, and shopping centers, connecting bus and subway hubs. Users can call for the bus by typing in their destinations via a mobile application.

The newly launched automated ride-hailing buses were built on QCrafts self-developed Robobus, the Longzhou ONE, powered by its Driven-by-QCraft autonomous driving solution. The buses operate under a safe 20 to 50 km/h speed limit on open city roads.
STOCKHOLM, SWEDEN  LELO, a leading designer of intimate lifestyle products, has announced it is partnering with intimacy expert Shan Boodram to discuss how to confidently reenter dating as the world slowly reopens and people are more comfortable venturing out on dates.

LELO wants to highlight conversations related to self-care and pleasure, making partnering with Boodram a natural. She has spent the past 15 years discussing sex, relationships, and attachment, has a Youtube channel where she discusses relationships, is a best-selling author and was a host and Executive Producer of Quibis dating show Sexology.

Where to start? Tip number one is to feel body confident. Invest into yourself; this can be getting new underwear, putting on moisturizer daily head to toe, making your favorite body part visible to you all day long or practicing positive self-talk. Masturbation may lend itself well here as knowing what you like can make you more confident in the bedroom.

According to LELO and SWNS 2021 Masturbation Survey, 71% of participants credited masturbation for helping them communicate with partners about their preferences in the bedroom. Plus, pleasuring yourself prior to going on a date can help with issues like premature ejaculation in addition to helping calm your nerves. For people with vulvas, LELO said its SILA is an ideal choice because the wider mouth and extra-soft silicone is made to accommodate a range of body types while providing slow, gentle stimulation. For people with penises, Boodram recommends LELOs newest product F1SV2 which uses customizable sensonic technology for an intense finish.

Next? The talk - in 2019, the talk consisted of making sure there is consent, mutual intent and then asking someone for their sexual health information before engaging in sexual acts. In 2021 it's important to know that, their COVID vaccination status, social distancing practices and risk factors of contracting COVID-19.

Make it fun! After a year of heavy news and fear what people are most looking out of dating right now is someone to smile, laugh and be light with. Avoid the heavy small talk topics (like asking someone how their pandemic experiences were) and instead discuss guilty pleasures: food, vacations, financial splurges, fantasy and of course sex.

Bring up sex. If you are single, Boodram recommends using this line, "did you know that during the pandemic over half of sexually active Americans tried something new sexually? Which half are you apart of?" If someone is uncomfortable with the topic they will say theyre a part of the population who didnt do anything different and then they might switch the topic. If they are comfortable they will tell you what new thing they did, which allows you to easily transition into asking what new things theyd like to do.

Prioritize novelty. 2021 is a year where people are craving new experiences. After a year of heavy restrictions, many people want to feel alive, free and adventurous again (but also they want to feel safe which is why The Talk 2.0 is so important). So try to lean into creating first times even with first-time sexual partners. Remote-controlled couples play can be an exciting way to tease your partner in both private and public, which can pave the way for a steamy encounter later on. For this, Shan recommends LELOs prostate massager, HUGO, and the whisper-quiet clip-on vibrator, Tiani 3, which are both Bluetooth enabled with a range of up to 20 meters. The creative possibilities for exploration are endless.

For more information on LELO and to explore the full roster of pleasure products visit lelo.com. To learn more about Shan visit shanboodram.com.
NAPA, Calif.  Vibratex, the sole North American importer of the Magic Wand brand, is taking visibility to new heights with a pair of prominent, cheeky billboards. The clever new ad spots, which are part of a cooperative campaign with Pink Cherry, ask You up? The reply quips Not for long! followed by an emoji-like rendering of Magic Wand.

The billboards are designed to mimic a flirtatious text exchange or sliding into ones DMs. Rather than heading out though, the return implies that Magic Wand is worth staying in for...

Magic Wand is a larger-than-life brand, and sometimes it takes a billboard to properly show it off, Vibratex CEO Ken Herskovitz said. Pink Cherry has really mastered the art of going big in a fun and engaging way, and were so excited to team up with them again on another campaign.

Each billboard, currently visible in Las Vegas and Toronto, is strategically located for maximum impact, the company said.

The Las Vegas ad is located at the Tropicana/Paradise intersection near the McCarran Airport and UNLVs Thomas Mack Center. Weekly impressions are reported at 900,000. The Toronto ad is located on the Gardiner Expressway. Weekly impressions are reported at an equally impressive 800,000. The billboards will stand from now through mid-December.

Magic Wand and Vibratex are inviting everyone in the industry to engage with the campaign on social media. If you happen to see one of the billboards, snap a selfie and tag #truemagicwand on social.

For all Vibratex and Magic Wand sales questions and inquiries, contact Eddie Romero, director of business development, via [email protected].

To learn more about Magic Wand, visit magicwandoriginal.com. Join Magic Wand on Instagram at @truemagicwand.
LONDON (AP)  Queen Elizabeth II has canceled her planned appearance at the U.N. climate conference in Glasgow, accepting doctors' advice to rest just days after spending the night in a hospital for tests.

The 95-year-old monarch announced Tuesday that she has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the reception on Nov. 1  a move that will dash the hopes of Britain's Conservative government, which is anxious to show the importance of the session to the fate of the planet. The climate conference runs from Oct. 31 to Nov. 12 and her attendance was meant to kick it off in style and splendor.

Her Majesty is disappointed not to attend the reception but will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded video message, Buckingham Palace said.

The news came after the sovereign held virtual audiences Tuesday at Windsor Castle  the first since revelations that her doctors ordered her to rest last week.

The sovereign greeted the ambassadors from South Korea and Switzerland during her first technology-aided appearance since she was driven to Londons King Edward VIIs Hospital on Oct. 20 for preliminary investigations. She returned to her Windsor Castle home at lunchtime the next day and has been taking on light duties since.

The queen underwent the medical tests after she canceled a scheduled trip to mark 100 years since the creation of Northern Ireland, and the palace said she had reluctantly accepted advice to rest for a few days. The matter was not related to COVID-19.

Her doctors ordered rest last week after the monarch who likes to be seen by the people carried out a hectic series of events. She held audiences with diplomats, had a reception at Windsor Castle for global business leaders and attended the horse races at Ascot.

Her hospital visit last week came amid general disquiet about Elizabeths health. Days earlier, she was seen using a walking stick at a Westminster Abbey service marking the centenary of the Royal British Legion, an armed forces charity. Although she had used a cane in 2003, it was after she underwent knee surgery.

The queens husband, Prince Philip, died in April 2021 at 99. Elizabeth has enjoyed robust health throughout her life, becoming Britains longest-lived and longest-reigning monarch. She is due to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee  70 years on the throne  next year.

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

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At a recent meeting, the Bureau of Reclamation explained why there would be no High Flow Experiment (HFE) on the Colorado River in Grand Canyon this fall. An HFE would move sand from the bottom of the river in Marble Canyon to the tops of beaches along the length of Grand Canyon. The sediment load in Marble Canyon is the best its been since monitoring began, and a model shows sandbars throughout the Canyon are at their lowest volume in more than a decade. River runners note that several beaches were severely eroded after this years intense monsoon rains.

So, with optimal conditions for an HFE and a great need for one, why wont it occur?

The floods would cause Lake Powell to be below a certain level for too many hours, causing diminished power production, and it would take too much money out of the Basin Fund, which does things like fund operations and maintenance of Colorado River Storage Project facilities and pay for environmental programs aimed at studying and remediating the negative impacts of those facilities.

We must recognize the conflict weve created. It is time to admit that Glen Canyon Dam cant pay for itself, and we are subsidizing it by sacrificing our nationally treasured Grand Canyon, the much beloved Glen Canyon, and the survival of Colorado River species such as the humpback chub.

The Grand Canyon Protection Act of 1992 states:

The Secretary shall operate Glen Canyon Dam in such a manner as to protect, mitigate adverse impacts to, and improve the values for which Grand Canyon National Park and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area were established

Glen Canyon Dam is operated according to a flawed document called the Long Term Experimental and Monitoring Plan (LTEMP), approved in 2016. LTEMP aims to minimize impacts on resources within the area impacted by dam operations.

To minimize impacts is not to protect, mitigate adverse impacts to, and improve.

This recent HFE decision is, perhaps, an admission that we as a nation are unable  or unwilling  to meet the purposes of the Grand Canyon Protection Act of 1992. As drought intensifies, there is a strong focus on protecting Powell and Mead reservoirs, and the dams that create them, to the detriment of the Colorado River. We must realize that the river is more than a pipeline; it is lifegiving for humans and wildlife. It should be seen as a living entity that is showing signs of abuse, and it is upon us to recognize what needs to change so we can restore the river to health. Its actually the law that we do so.

LTEMP does not plan for uncertainty in future water supply in the Colorado River system.

Sierra Club and other organizations urged decision makers to consider longterm climatic trends because climate could cause reservoir levels to fluctuate beyond the levels anticipated at the time of dam construction. We warned about ongoing and future droughts and a regional warming trend. These urgings were ignored.

We said that LTEMP must specifically create a plan for providing water to the Colorado River in Grand Canyon during extended drought periods. We asked for a plan for releasing water through Glen Canyon Dam if levels fell below the dams intakes, and predictions for what the water quality and temperature would be when reservoir levels dropped.

Now, government officials are struggling to come up with plans for how to deliver water through Grand Canyon but Grand Canyon is being seen as merely the conduit between Glen Canyon and Hoover Dams. This is unacceptable.

Its time to ask what we are willing to sacrifice and subsidize. Glen Canyon is not providing cheap or sustainable power, and its water storage functions can be replaced downstream in Lake Mead. We need a better plan to protect, mitigate adverse impacts to, and improve the values of Grand and Glen Canyons.

The Colorado River is over allocated and we must protect the river  not just the reservoirs. Grand Canyon is a natural wonder and not a pipeline.

Alicyn Gitlin is with the Restore & Protect the Greater Grand Canyon Campaign and the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter.

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FAIRBURY  Attorneys made their final pitches here Monday in a weeklong trial where a 19-year-old Fairbury man was accused of beating a 2-year-old boy, leaving him barely breathing in a closet of a third-floor apartment less than a mile from the courthouse.

The boy, Hollen Siedschlag, died the next day, his liver damaged beyond repair by the time his mother could get him help.

Prosecutors said the man on trial, Jake Gonzalez, was guilty of child abuse resulting in death and terroristic threats.

In closing arguments, Assistant Nebraska Attorney General Bill Tangeman called it a case about a little boy and his mom "who were in a really, really bad situation."

He said Bailey Siedschlag was trying to get them out.

"But the evidence in this case shows that she was just a little bit too late on that," Tangeman said.

On Feb. 26, shortly before 6:30 p.m., Jefferson County Sheriff's deputies were called to a Fairbury apartment to check on a woman who had used a code word to let safety workers know there was trouble.

When they got there, Bailey Siedschlag started crying and told them to call an ambulance for her son.

Gonzalez ran from the apartment, but was caught less than an hour later.

Deputies found Hollen face-down in a closed closet with bruising on the back of his head, arms, back and legs and two black eyes, Deputy Thomas Osienger wrote in an affidavit for a search warrant.

The boy was taken to a local hospital and later flown to Children's Hospital in Omaha, where he died the next day.

"The evidence that has been presented to you in this case during the last week shows beyond a reasonable doubt that Jake Gonzalez ... got angry and literally beat Hollen Siedschlag to death," Tangeman said. "I tried to think of a nicer way to say that, but there really isn't any. That's exactly what happened."

He said there was nothing the doctors could do.

Tangeman said Bailey Siedschlag had just picked up Hollen from child care at about 4:45 p.m. He'd been fine there all day. But she dropped him off at home with Gonzalez to change a dirty diaper while she and her daughter headed to Walmart.

It was in that brief window that Gonzalez grew frustrated at Hollen and snapped, Tangeman said.

"You don't bust a kid's lip or cause knuckle or hand marks on their head and cause literally dozens of injuries on the abdomen, on the face, all over the kid's body. You don't do that on accident," Tangeman said.

He said the only two who could have done it were his mother or Gonzalez.

"So which one of them did it? The evidence of that is crystal-clear," the prosecutor said.

On the other side, attorney Kelly Breen of the Nebraska Commission on Public Advocacy said if there's any history here, it's that Hollen wasn't getting appropriate care from his mother and that she may have been disciplining him excessively.

"Why didn't social services intervene for this battered child who was living in a filthy, dirty apartment? I don't know," he said.

Bailey Siedschlag said Hollen had fallen down the stairs, telling them she'd turned around, accidentally hitting him with a bag of groceries, causing him to tumble down a nearly full flight of steps.

It was only after she was being questioned about the fall that she went to the police and said Gonzalez was abusive, Breen said.

"It's pure deflection," he said.

He said when law enforcement got there, Bailey Siedschlag didn't tell them what she later testified to on the stand: that she had found Hollen in the bedroom and that Gonzalez had dragged him by the arm to the closet and threw him in it, slamming his head against the wall.

She said Gonzalez threatened to make it worse if she tried to help Hollen.

"She's making up this story because she knows she's being implicated in the death of her child," Breen said.

"This is about what happened to Hollen on Feb. 26," he said.

Outside, as deputies loaded Gonzalez up to take him to jail, the jury forewoman said she has a 3-year-old and an in-home child care, but that didn't weigh in her decision. The state had to prove he was guilty. And it did, she said.

The woman, who asked not to be identified, said the photos jurors had to look at were the hardest part of the trial, and she's trying to forget some of that.

"But maybe for Hollen, and for others out there, maybe it's good not to forget," she said.

Reach the writer at 402-473-7237 or lpilger@journalstar.com. On Twitter @LJSpilger

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A Nebraska State Patrol trooper arrested two people after finding more than 130 pounds of marijuana and a loaded handgun during a traffic stop on Interstate 80.

At about 1:50 p.m. Friday, a trooper saw an eastbound Mitsubishi Outlander following another vehicle too closely on Interstate 80 near Aurora, the patrol said Monday. During the traffic stop, the trooper detected the odor of marijuana coming from inside the SUV.

The trooper searched the vehicle and found 132 pounds of marijuana in several duffel bags. The trooper also found a loaded handgun in a compartment in the passenger door.

The 24-year-old driver and 21-year-old passenger, both of Columbia, South Carolina, were arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana  more than a pound, possession with intent to deliver and possession of a firearm during a drug violation. Both men were taken to the Hamilton County Jail.

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A key figure in the indictment of U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry for allegedly lying to federal investigators has resigned his position with a Washington, D.C.-based Christian group.

Toufic Baaklini, who resigned on Sunday, had served as president and a board member for several years for In Defense of Christians, an organization that fights persecution of Christians in the Middle East.

Baaklini told federal investigators that in January 2016, he was given $30,000 by Gilbert Chagoury, a Nigerian billionaire now living in Paris, for distribution as political contributions to Fortenberry. Baaklini said he gave the money to a California man who was hosting a fundraiser for Fortenberry at a Los Angeles restaurant. A group of people  with five of the donors having the last name Ayoub  were recruited to eventually donate the money.

It is illegal for foreigners to contribute to American political campaigns, including through third parties, a practice known as "conduit" contributions.

Fortenberry ran into Baaklini in Washington sometime after the fundraiser, according to federal court documents, and asked him something to the effect of: Do you think anything was wrong with the fundraiser?

Baaklini replied by falsely saying no and then asked why. Fortenberry reportedly responded because it all came from the same family.

Fortenberry has pleaded not guilty, and his attorney has said he was "misled" by federal investigators and didn't recall all of the details of a 2018 phone call in which federal prosecutors said he was told the donations were illegal. After two interviews with FBI investigators in 2019, Fortenberry gave the $30,000 to two charities.

Several phone calls and messages to Baaklini over the past week by the World-Herald have gone unanswered.

Chagoury and Baaklini admitted making illegal campaign contributions to Fortenberry and three other politicians, including former U.S. Rep. Lee Terry of Omaha and the 2012 presidential campaign of Mitt Romney. Chagoury and Baaklini agreed to cooperate with the federal investigation and paid fines of $1.8 million and $90,000, respectively.

Baaklini, who was born in Lebanon, had given campaign donations to more than a dozen Republican candidates for office in recent years, according to federal campaign reports.

In Defense of Christians, in a press release on Sunday, thanked Baaklini for his service, adding that any campaign contributions made by, or through, Baaklini were in his "personal capacity."

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What do you think about when you hear or read the word weather? In my role as an agronomist or more specifically as the Water and Integrated Cropping Systems Extension Educator for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, I think of complexity and integration. Of the over 500 stakeholder calls I have received this year, weather or climate was something that I had to consider when answering most of them.

The Nebraska Mesonet (https://mesonet.unl.edu) is a statewide weather monitoring network with 64 stations located in 47 counties. The network started in 1981 focused on servicing data to the ag community, but has expanded to also include environmental monitoring too. Mesonet stations are equipped to observe hourly conditions for the following variables: Air temperature, humidity, liquid precipitation, wind speed and direction, solar radiation, barometric pressure, soil temperature and soil moisture. I make use of the daily maps including potential evapotranspiration, winter wheat growing degree days, 2 and 4-inch soil temperatures, and soil moisture at depths of 2, 4, 8, 20, and 40-inches. I have used this information along with other weather data resources like the National Weather Service to aid clients in making data-driven agronomic decisions.

The network is supported by the State of Nebraska in collaboration with the Department of Natural Resources and the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Many agencies and individuals contribute to network operations through service agreements (including funding) for specific stations. For example, as the local Water & Integrated Cropping Systems Extension Educator, I allocated some of my local UNL Extension funds to get a new 10-meter weather station that is currently being installed at the old Wilber airport in cooperation with the City of Wilber. I am looking for area partners to help cost share the annual maintenance and upkeep cost. Please contact me if you are interested in being a local funding partner (such as a Bank, Ag retailer, etc.) with Nebraska Extension for the new weather station near Wilber. Also, please contact the Nebraska Mesonet staff if you would like to inquire about a new station in your area at 402-472-5206.

I encourage you to visit the Mesonet (https://mesonet.unl.edu) and check out the interactive Mesonet station map which includes images of the weather station and surrounding area. There are real-time maps, current weather variables table, and other daily maps accessible via the main header tabs on the website. For more information about using the Mesonet (https://mesonet.unl.edu) and other general inquiries about agronomic resources from Nebraska Extension, feel free to contact me at nathan.mueller@unl.edu or 402-821-1722. Know your crop, know your tech, know your bottom line at croptechcafe.org.

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"We're happy that the Speaker and the President took this up," Abbott said. "We feel like its the first step and the next stop for accountability for a very troubling incident of harassment of frontline workers and the potential abuse of power by the attorney general."

A spokesperson for the Attorney General's Office on Monday was dismissive of the investigation.

"Not a single Montana Democrat legislator reached out to our agency with any questions about the incident before this partisan political stunt," spokesperson Kyler Nerison said. "As weve said from the beginning, no one was threatened or had their clinical judgment questioned while the Department of Justice was trying to get to the bottom of the allegations made against the hospital."

The special investigative counsel is one of several positions created by the Legislature to fill a more active role during the interim. Abra Belke, who served as chief of staff for Senate Republicans during the 2021 session, was hired into the new position this summer.
Democrats seemed content to have one congressional district with a partisan lean favoring Republicans by 4.75%, this after spending 26 years in the political dunk tank that Montanas at-large congressional district became for Democratic candidates. Montana was demoted to at-large status after a poor showing in the 1990 Census. Williams won the at-large seat twice but chose not to run for reelection in 1996.

The commissions goal Oct. 21 was to settle on one map to offer for public comment Oct. 30, after which there could be minor adjustments, but the congressional districts would be almost baked in.

But disagreement between the two Republicans and two Democrats on the commission derailed those plans. Both groups produced maps on the fly Oct. 21 that the other wouldnt support. Then, Commission Chairwoman Maylinn Smith, the likely tiebreaker in deciding what Montanas congressional map will be, announced that if the other commissioners couldnt agree on a single map, she would rely heavily on public opinion and make the final decision.

I would strongly encourage people to do written comments on the maps so we have as many of the comments on those beforehand, Smith said. That will certainly help me in making a decision as to which of these two maps, if it comes down to me, which of these two maps would go forward.
BOISE  A suspect is in custody after two people were killed and four injured  including a police officer  in a shooting at a shopping mall Monday in Boise, Idaho, police said.

At a news conference, authorities said officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect. The majority of the mall has been cleared but police were still looking for any additional victims.

Police didn't release any other information, saying the investigation was ongoing.

Police are asking people to avoid the area. Police also said they were notifying the families of those involved.

The Boise Towne Square shopping mall is located in Idaho's largest city and is the city's largest mall.

Police were interviewing dozens of people outside the entrance to Macy's, one of five large department stores at the mall that has 153 stores in all.

Police are also investigating what appears to be another crime scene at a restaurant near the mall.
"It's the only case that really takes on the leadership and organization of the white supremacist movement," said Karen Dunn, one of the lead attorneys in the lawsuit.

The plaintiffs' attorneys say they've amassed 5.3 terabytes of digital communications by the defendants, including many on the online platform Discord initially leaked by Unicorn Riot, a left-leaning media collective.

The lawsuit alleges there were "countless exhortations to violence" on Discord, including one by a defendant who allegedly wrote: "I'm ready to crack skulls," and another who wrote: "It's going to get wild. Bring your boots."

A third allegedly wrote: "There is rapidly approaching a time when in every white western city, corpses will be stacked in the streets as high as men can stack them."

But the white nationalists named as defendants claim talk of weapons and combat was meant only in the event they had to defend themselves from counterprotesters. They argue their communications are protected by the First Amendment.
During the last week, at least 47 more Montanans died from COVID-19, bringing the total to 2,259 deaths since the start of the pandemic.

Since last Monday, 6,040 new cases were added to the state dashboard. Active cases decreased by 370, but its too soon to tell if the state is seeing the decline in the most recent surge.

A longer period of decreased case numbers and hospitalization is needed before experts can safely call it the decline, said Billings Clinic infectious disease expert Dr. Neil Ku.

Oct. 21 also brought the highest number of deaths in a single day since the start of the pandemic with 17 deaths recorded.

Hospitalizations remain high with 447 active hospitalizations in the state and 86% of ICU beds filled mostly with COVID patients.

The intensive care unit has seen higher patient volumes in the last week than in the past, said Ku.

On Monday morning, St. Vincent Healthcare had 63 COVID positive inpatients and 15 COVID patients in the ICU where 14 are intubated. Billings Clinic cared for 76 COVID positive patients Monday, 32 ICU level COVID patients with 21 patients on ventilators.

In all, 107 were not vaccinated, according to RiverStone Health.
Two people accused of transporting marijuana through North Dakota in a van loaded with ramen noodles have been scheduled for trial next year.

Tariq Alexander, 28, on Monday pleaded not guilty to drug possession with intent to deliver. His trial is set for Feb. 22. Latifah Rivers, 24, pleaded not guilty last week. Her trial is April 26.

The two Philadelphia residents were arrested Aug. 28 after a North Dakota Highway Patrol trooper stopped the van for speeding on Interstate 94 in Mandan. The trooper smelled burned marijuana, and a search of the vehicle produced two 5-pound bags of pot inside boxes of ramen noodles, according to an affidavit. Authorities said troopers also found a tracking device that's commonly used by drug traffickers.

Alexander said he was driving from Tacoma, Washington, to New York with a delivery of noodles that another company worker had loaded onto the van, the affidavit states. His attorney, Robert Quick, did not immediately respond to a Tribune request for comment.

Both suspects told authorities they were unaware that the boxes contained marijuana. The two voluntarily gave troopers the passcodes for cellphones and a tablet in the van, according to the affidavit.

Reach Travis Svihovec at 701-250-8260 or Travis.Svihovec@bismarcktribune.com

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North Dakota's Health Department has confirmed 17 more coronavirus-related deaths.

The new deaths reflected on the agency's coronavirus dashboard Tuesday brought the state's pandemic toll to 1,735. The state no longer publicly reports the county, sex and age range of newly confirmed deaths. The dashboard death total for Burleigh County increased by five, to 236, and the total for Morton County rose by one, to 115.

The 17 deaths were the most reported in one day since January, but there have been days in October with reports of 10 and 11 deaths. The increase Tuesday was due to normal fluctuation," and not because of any sort of backlog in reporting, the Health Department told the Tribune.

"We receive reports of deaths daily from multiple sources and there was no one source that attributed to the majority of deaths reported on Monday and reflected on Tuesday's dashboard, the department said.

October is the deadliest COVID-19 month in North Dakota in 2021, and the fifth-deadliest during the pandemic, at 109 deaths with five days still to go. The pandemic began 20 months ago, in March 2020. Deaths spiked late last year, with a total of 1,079 occurring in October, November and December. They've surged again with the onset of the highly contagious delta variant of the coronavirus in late summer and early fall.

Virus cases have begun to trend downward, though active cases rose slightly statewide on Tuesday, to 3,279. Burleigh-Morton's total was stable, at 586.

The state reported 747 newly confirmed COVID-19 cases, and calculated a positivity rate of 9.73%. The 14-day rolling average test positivity rate ticked above 7% again, at 7.03%, after dropping below that mark Monday for the first time in a month. The state target is less than 5%. The reported rate hasn't met that threshold since mid-August.

COVID-19 hospitalizations dropped by four from Monday, to 169, the lowest reported total since Oct. 5. Still, fewer than 9% of staffed inpatient beds statewide were available, and fewer than 6% of intensive care unit beds were available.

The most recent state data showed 182 available staffed inpatient beds and 14 available ICU beds statewide. In Bismarck, neither Sanford Health nor CHI St. Alexius Health had any available general care beds. Sanford had one available ICU bed; CHI St. Alexius had none.

The Health Department has confirmed 145,744 COVID-19 cases in North Dakota during the pandemic, with 140,730 recoveries and 5,853 hospitalizations.

More information

The state's vaccine dashboard shows 55% of eligible North Dakota adults and 33% of adolescents in the 12-18 age group are considered fully vaccinated. North Dakota has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the U.S., according to the CDC. People can go to https://www.ndvax.org or call 866-207-2880 to see where COVID-19 vaccine is available near them.

The coronavirus transmission risk is considered substantial or high in all of North Dakota's 53 counties but Cavalier and Slope, according to the CDC's COVID-19 data tracker website. The CDC recommends people in those risk categories wear masks in public indoor settings. The transmission risk in the Bismarck-Mandan region is considered high.

A list of free COVID-19 testing offered by local public health units is at health.nd.gov/covidtesting. For more detailed information on coronavirus in North Dakota, go to www.health.nd.gov/coronavirus. For more information on coronavirus variants, go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/transmission/variant.html.

Reach Blake Nicholson at 701-250-8266 or blake.nicholson@bismarcktribune.com.

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HINSDALE, Mont.  A 76 million year old animal rose from a sandstone coulee on Oct. 16 through a curtain of dust kicked up by the two thundering propellers of a Chinook helicopter.

A 9,000-pound chunk of rock dangled from the helicopter. The fossilized remains of a tyrannosaur were curled inside the rock, frozen in a geological snapshot of the late Cretaceous Period. The Chinook guided the fossil to a flatbed truck, finishing the first part of its journey to the Badlands Dinosaur Museum in Dickinson.

Its a big one, said paleontologist Denver Fowler, curator for the museum, as he stood next to the flatbed. Fowler, along with his wife and fellow researcher Liz Fowler, spent four years uprooting the dinosaur from the prehistoric sediment in Valley County.

Inside the badlands that carve through the prairie of northeastern Montana is a layer of mudstone and sandstone known as the Judith River Formation. The ranches and farmland around Hinsdale were part of a delta on the edge of a great inland sea that split North America in two, stretching from the Arctic Sea to the Gulf of Mexico.

A human walking along the delta 76 million years ago, hypothetically, would see many familiar animals in the water, Liz Fowler said, such as turtles, frogs, salamanders and crocodiles. On land, however, the 7-ton duck-billed Brachylophosaurus would be munching on ferns and conifers. The apex predator Daspletosaurus, a relative of Tyrannosaurus rex, would be munching on Brachylophosaurus.

It was probably a half-grown Daspletosaurus, Denver Fowler said, that washed up on the ancient delta. Decomposition set into its curled body, causing its belly to swell with gases. Then, like a whale, its gut exploded. Other than its scattered ribs, the rest of the animal was encased in the sediment that washed over it.

Nature kept the animal buried and preserved while the inland ocean receded, only to slowly unearth it through erosion. Wind and water chipped away at the hill where the tyrannosaur lay, eventually exposing its feet. It was these two feet spotted by Denver Fowler that launched the excavation.

To find one foot is awesome but its not all that uncommon. If youve got both feet together and theyre both articulated, then youve got to have the legs together. If youve got the legs together, then theyre probably attached to the hips, and if youve got the hips, then why not the rest of the skeleton? he said.

Denver and Liz Fowler, both of whom earned a Ph.D. in paleontology from Montana State University, first came to Valley County in 2016. Their visit to the rugged formations about 60 miles south of the Canadian border came after an error that Liz Fowler spotted at a Bureau of Land Management office in Havre.

In their lobby they have the jaw of a dinosaur with some nice teeth in it, and it was labeled duckbill. Liz said, Thats not duck bill, thats a horned dinosaur.

They asked BLM HiLine District Archaeologist Josh Chase where he found the jaw, and he brought them out to Hinsdale. Chase has helped facilitate excavations and research in Montana conducted by the Museum of the Rockies, the Cleveland Museum of Natural History and most recently the Dickinson Museum Center, which houses the Badlands Dinosaur Museum.

The real effort of digging around the tyrannosaurs feet began in 2018. Over the next two summers, they dug about 10 feet deep into a hillside, and into the soft sandstone beneath the dinosaurs feet, planting jacks along the way. As they neared the point where the bones lay, their progress came to a halt. Limestone had mixed in with the sediment surrounding the dinosaur, making it close to impossible to break apart into manageable pieces.

In 2019, the excavation team of volunteers and students returned with cement saws. Their diamond blades tore through the thick parts of the rock, leaving a checkerboard pattern over the top of the fossil. Even with the help of the saws, the slab containing the bones still weighed 4.5 tons, and the rough landscape meant that if the dinosaur was going anywhere, it would have to be by helicopter.

The Fowlers, whose experience in excavating ancient animals spans continents, had overseen helicopter extractions before, but never one this large. With wildfires taking priority, they had to wait until late this year to get a Chinook recently acquired by the Billings Flying Service at the site.

To prepare the fossil for the trip to North Dakota, the Dickinson Museum Center commissioned a custom iron frame. A portion of the frame wrapped around the slab containing the dinosaur, and another sat on the truck. On the day of the extraction, the Chinook pilots hovered over the flatbed while a small team on the ground held onto ropes that dangled from the framed Daspletosaurus. After a few corrections, the rock fell into place as snug as a 10,000-pound puzzle piece.

Over the next two to three years, experts will break away the stone with air chisels, and scans of the fossilized bones will reveals its age and give paleontologists insights into its evolution. Because Denver Fowler spotted the tyrannosaur on public BLM land, there will be no dispute over where it will go or who will get to see it.

Theres a lot of interest in paleontology on public land at the moment, because this allows us to have dinosaurs in local museums. This allows us to have dinosaurs on display. Stan the T-Rex from South Dakota, nobody knows where it is, said Fowler, who is also the curator of the Badlands Dinosaur Museum.

Stan, a 39-foot-long Tyrannosaurus rex was found in 1987 and excavated outside of Buffalo, South Dakota, in 1992. At nearly 70% complete, dozens of casts have been made of Stan that fill museums worldwide. The fossil remained the property of the Black Hills Institute, a private corporation, until 2020. Stan was sold to an anonymous buyer for roughly $32 million, making it the most expensive fossil ever sold and potentially closing off any future research that paleontologists had planned for the 66 million-year-old T-Rex.

In the United States, all fossils on public lands have to be excavated through permit. Once theyre out of the ground, they have to remain in the public trust by going to federal repositories, such as the Museum of the Rockies or the Dickinson Museum Center.

BLM lands in Montana contain both paleontological sites that date back to the Cretaceous Period, and culturally significant Indigenous sites like buffalo jumps that date back more than 20,000 years. Fowler said digs on public lands act as a kind of buffer against commercial paleontology, which drives private landowners to take fossils found on their property to the auction block.

Theres no real substitute for people who really know what theyre doing, like being able to identify fragments and tell species from a tiny fragment. Being able to tell the rib bone of a giant animal from the leg bone of a tiny animal, he said.

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Secretary of State Al Jaeger on Tuesday unveiled the 34th edition of the North Dakota Blue Book, a compendium of state facts and history.

The book, published every two years since 1995 and written by volunteers, has a featured chapter of more than 50 pages on state parks, which have seen record visitation amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Blue Book also highlights presidential visits to North Dakota, the centennial of the state-owned Mill and Elevator, and beekeeping.

"I think we can pull a word from our Scandinavian heritage, that it's a smorgasbord of information in there," Gov. Doug Burgum said at a ceremony Tuesday, where Jaeger presented him with a copy of the new edition.

The governor and the secretary recognized the dozens of volunteers from state agencies, libraries and the public who contributed to the Blue Book.

"What I find so amazing about this particular book is that there isn't one single author. There are 40, 50, 60, 70 people for each of these books, that put time and do the research and writing," said Jaeger, the book's publisher.

The book also records numerous impacts of the pandemic on North Dakota K-12 education, state parks and vital statistics.

The Blue Book is available for $20 from the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum store. The store sold 168 print copies of the previous edition, published in 2019.

Digitized Blue Book editions are available online at history.nd.gov/bluebook/index.html.

Reach Jack Dura at 701-250-8225 or jack.dura@bismarcktribune.com.

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A landowners group says cleanup of some abandoned oil wells the state sought to plug using federal coronavirus relief money is incomplete, and costs at times far exceeded what's considered typical.

The Northwest Landowners Association released a report on the abandoned well plugging program Tuesday after sifting through numerous publicly available documents and other records obtained from the state.

While well-intentioned, this program mostly leaves the landowner and North Dakota taxpayers holding the bag, Chairman Troy Coons said.

The North Dakota Oil and Gas Division set out last year to plug hundreds of abandoned wells and reclaim the sites, aiming to put them back into agricultural use and employ hundreds, if not thousands, of oil workers. Numerous workers in the oil patch lost jobs last year or had their hours cut after the coronavirus pandemic hit and sent oil prices plummeting.

State leaders designated $66 million in federal CARES Act funding for plugging abandoned wells, $16 million of which appeared unlikely to be spent by the deadline so was ultimately redirected to reimburse companies for the cost of acquiring water used in the fracking process. Officials authorized another $6 million to finish cleanup work this year. Those efforts are ongoing.

The program has paid for the plugging of 339 wells in 2020 and 2021, Oil and Gas Division spokeswoman Katie Haarsager said. She added that the money kept 3,305 workers employed.

The goal was to keep our service companies employed, especially after other federal aid for businesses ran out, she said in a statement. State leaders also sought to protect North Dakota from future liabilities surrounding abandoned wells, she said.

The state says the wells included in the program were uneconomic. Many had sat idle for years.

The landowners association says the program revealed shortcomings in how the state handles abandoned wells.

Landowners have told the group that cleanup was at times incomplete. A contractor might remove a gravel well pad, for example, but not address contamination apparent within the surrounding land.

Some of those landowners were told were not dealing with all the problems here, were just getting the surface off, Coons said.

The state has long intended to ensure the sites are properly reclaimed, but it could not address any contamination outside of a well pad before the deadline to spend the CARES Act money, Haarsager said. Those funds needed to be used by the end of 2020.

We of course plan to work with the landowners on the reclamation of these properties, she said. The timeline of when the rest of the work will take place isn't clear.

Landowners for years have complained about salt contamination in the states oil fields. Saltwater, a byproduct of oil production, sometimes spills and renders land infertile. Decades ago, it was dumped into open pits to evaporate. Barren patches are common in parts of the state affected by saltwater, especially in the older oil fields of north-central North Dakota.

The landowners association says the state could better communicate with property owners in the future, allowing them a say in which wells are plugged and informing them of plans to address lingering reclamation needs. Many landowners did not realize that a well on their land was going to be plugged until a contractor approached them after the state authorized the well for the program, according to the group. The association adds that some landowners received thousands of dollars a year from surface agreements for wells on their land, but the money is no longer coming their way.

The group says the state should further strengthen bonding requirements to ensure enough money is available to plug wells once they stop operating for good. The issue is something they have raised on many occasions.

Before the well-plugging program, state officials estimated the cost of plugging and reclaiming a well site was $150,000. Coons acknowledged some wells can be taken care of for that amount but said others cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to plug and clean up through the program.

Figures provided to the Tribune by the Oil and Gas Division on Tuesday show that the program's average cost for plugging and reclaiming a well is $283,000. Plugging ranged from $51,000 to $523,000 per well. Reclamation ranged from $8,000 to $1.9 million per well.

State policies meant to ensure adequate money is available to plug a well are woefully inadequate, Coons said. Bonding requirements vary depending on the status of wells and how many wells a company seeks to bond. The state requires a $50,000 bond for a single well. A blanket bond of $100,000 can include multiple wells.

The group wants the state to do away with blanket bonds, especially given the high volume of active wells in North Dakota today. Nearly 17,000 are producing oil.

Without a plan moving forward, our concern is for the landowners, our concern is for the taxpayers of North Dakota, said Kenton Onstad, a board member with the landowners group. We so appreciate having the oil development come, (but) are we going to be responsible for the cleanup?

The state strengthened its policies surrounding abandoned wells in rules that took effect last year. Among the changes is that the state can require a company to put up a higher bond if a well remains classified as temporarily abandoned for more than seven years. The rules also require that abandoned wells sold by one company to another must be fully bonded by the purchaser. The Oil and Gas Division suggested the changes to the North Dakota Industrial Commission, which authorized them.

Congress, meanwhile, is weighing whether to designate money to plug abandoned oil wells across a number of states. Helms has been involved in efforts at the federal level, and members of North Dakotas congressional delegation have introduced legislation to establish such a program.

Some states where oil development began decades before it did in North Dakota during the 1950s have tens of thousands of abandoned wells. The landowners group hopes other states can learn from North Dakotas plugging experience.

Were not looking to cast stones here," Coons said. Were making everybody aware of the looming, large issue. Its a devastating size of liability.

Reach Amy R. Sisk at 701-250-8252 or amy.sisk@bismarcktribune.com.

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Do not consider WebMD Blogs as medical advice. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your care plan or treatment. WebMD understands that reading individual, real-life experiences can be a helpful resource, but it is never a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified health care provider. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or dial 911 immediately.
Anne Chappelle is a board certified toxicologist with two decades of experience studying the chemicals that can kill people. In this video, Dr. Chappelle explains how eyedrops have been used to kill someone, why it's not true that pencils can give you lead poisoning, and other curious facts about poisons.

And if you're seeking more detail on Visine as a weapon, the following is from a 2013 Wired article on the matter:

Eye-drop poisoning is more routine you might think. Remember the Ohio man arrested last year for sending his father to the hospital by putting two bottles of Visine into his milk? The Pennsylvania woman who'd been sneaking Visine into her boyfriend's drinking water for three years? (The poor man suffered all that time with nausea, breathing and blood pressure problems). Oh, and let's not forget the Wyoming teenager who was angry with her step-mother; the girl just pleaded no contest to aggravated assault the active ingredient in these products is a compound called tetrahydrozoline, which turns to be a neat little arrangement of carbon, hydrogen, plus a little nitrogen. Or to be more specific it has the chemical formula: C 13 H 16 N 2 . It belongs to a family of compounds known for their ability to induce chemical reactions that either relax or constrict blood vessels. The former tend to end up in medications used to reduce blood pressure. The latter, which includes tetrahydrozoline, often go into nasal sprays or in eye drop formulas that are designed to "get the red out." This is not, by the way, a simple blood vessel squeeze. It derives from the way these compounds bind to receptors in the sympathetic nervous system, altering signals to the vascular system, triggering the change. It's this action on the nervous system which puts tetrahydrozoline in the "neurotoxic" category on the Material Safety Data Sheet required of all manufactured chemical compounds.
Last week, Mohammed Zubi, a Mulsim-American senior at New Jersey's Ridgefield Memorial High School, asked the assistant teacher in his class if he could have additional time to complete an in-class assignment. The teacher's reported response? "We don't negotiate with terrorists."

From CNN:

Zubi, 17, said the assistant teacher came up to him a few minutes later, patted him on the back, and said he didn't mean it like that. "In my head I'm just like, what other way could he have meant that?" Zubi said.

The Ridgefield School District released a statement Sunday saying that the district "has absolutely no tolerance for any sort of discrimination against any student or staff member"

Zubi said he didn't return to school for nearly a week after the incident. "I went to school today for the first time," Zubi said Monday. "I want a public apology to me and my family."
Mike Graham is hose of The Independent Republic of Mike Graham on TalkRADIO. I don't know much about him, but judging by this clip alone, doesn't even have two neurons to run together. Watch him argue with Cameron Ford from Insulate Britain, an environmental activist group. When Ford tells Graham he is a carpenter, Graham sees it as his chance to attack Ford as a tree-killer. Ford tells Graham trees are renewable, unlike concrete.

Graham asked, "You can grow all sorts of things, can't you?"

"You can't grow concrete," said Ford.

Graham's reply: "Yeah, you can."

Ford wisely responded with silence. The interview ended shortly after that.

Our own Rob Beschizza, who was born in England, told me after watching this, "I had acquaintances on the right wing of UK media in the 1990s and what you're seeing there is real, not an act. Just absolutely dumb as shit, so stupid that it's immediately obvious there's just no point talking to them."
"Mommy Mommy, Where's My Brain?" is a 10-minute short from 1986 directed by Jon Moritsugu. It's part of the "Cinema of Transgression", a term coined by Nick Zedd in 1985 to describe an underground film movement, then at work in New York City, of artists who used humor and shock value in their art. Notable in the Cinema of Transgression were Zedd, Kembra Pfahler, Tessa Hughes-Freeland, Casandra Stark, Beth B, Tommy Turner, Richard Kern, and Lydia Lunch, who in the late 1970s and mid-1980s made very low-budget films using cheap 8 mm cameras.

Mommy Mommy, Where's My Brain? has a hardore energy and old-school, punk aesthetic. I had a lot of fun watching this early in the morning- it made me feel ready to take on the day.

If it's not transgressive, it's not underground. It has to be threatening the status quo by doing something surprising, not just imitating what's been done before.  Nick Zedd New York City's Lower East Side in the early Eighties saw an explosion of the downtown film scene, as a variety of film-makers, photographers, performers and artists, inspired by the post-punk No Wave music scene, began to explore new, direct, and confrontational cinematic forms. In 1984 the manifesto for the Cinema of Transgression was announced, a movement looking to transform values by breaking all taboos of cinematic expression, conservative religion, politics and aesthetics.

Following below, Nick Zedd's Cinema of Transgression Manifesto:
"We realize you may not be in favor of this decision, but unfortunately it is non-negotiable if we want to continue to work with the federal government," said John Scannell, Moog's chairman and CEO, in a memo to employees dated last Thursday.

Moog said the requirement applies to all of its U.S. employees, regardless of whether they work on government contracts, or work on-site or remotely.

"This is not a comfortable decision, nor a path we would have chosen so abruptly," Scannell said in the memo.

It wasn't know exactly how many Moog workers walked off the job on Monday. Over 200 people attended a rally outside of a building on Moog's campus along Jamison Road, a mix of employees and supporters.

The workers who walked out planned to return to their jobs after three hours, said Matt Schieber, a manager at Moog who served as a spokesman for the walkout.

"We are not here to fight against Moog," Schieber told the rally from the bed of a Toyota Tundra that served as a makeshift stage. "We are here to fight on behalf of Moog. After all, we are all in this together."
Then Jemal will proceed with 288 regular apartments on the fifth through eighth and 12th through 16th floors, plus 46 larger penthouse apartments on the top two floors. In between, he'll create a three-story hotel with 61 historic hotel rooms on each floor.

But it's the parking that's the most unique feature  and the aspect that the Planning Board had sought more information about when Jemal first brought the project for approval last month.

"I won't say it's weird, but it's different," said board chair James Morrell.

Cars will access the building from a pair of ramps on the north side of the building, along Mohawk Street, with one leading down to the basement and the other leading upstairs. Vehicles will wind a convoluted path through portions or all of the next five floors, including an exterior rooftop section on the third floor in back.

That's where the developer will install extra railings and wheel stops at least a foot in front of the 42-inch historic parapet, "so that cars don't go 'ploop' over the edge," said Jemal's attorney, Lindsey Haubenreich of Phillips Lytle LLP.

61 Terrace
"After Pfanner died, they cracked down on it," said Adamczyk, using the alternate spelling of Pfonner's last name that shows up in some records.

Pfonner's motorcycle was involved in three previous accidents, under Schultz's operation, in the weeks leading up to his death. The Buffalo Evening News wondered whether the motorcycle was "hoodoo," or bad luck, and the police chief had it replaced.

Pfonner was buried in the family plot in the cemetery at the St. Peter's German Evangelical Church, which now hosts the town's history museum.

Survivors included two sisters and a brother, Elmer, who joined the town police in 1924. Elmer Pfonner had his own close call one year after his brother's death when, while pursuing a speeding car, he crashed into the guardrail of a bridge over Ellicott Creek and plunged into the water.

Stauffiger said the distraught family, including George Pfonner, the brothers' father, pressured Elmer to leave the force over fears for his safety. He resigned in 1925.

"The family pulled the plug on that," he said.
Nonprofit leaders said those sessions formed bonds that helped various Buffalo nonprofits work together. And four of those nonprofits  PPG, PUSH Buffalo, VOICE-Buffalo and the Coalition for Economic Justice  in 2013 won the first of a series of grants from the Open Society Foundations, founded by Soros, one of the world's wealthiest progressive philanthropists.

Open Society, which did not respond to a request for comment, ended up investing more than $5 million in Buffalo over several years. Among its achievements was the creation of Open Buffalo, formed with the goal to "advance racial, economic, and ecological justice."

In addition to running the leadership training program that Walton graduated from, Open Buffalo and the other groups that applied for the grants shared some of it with other nonprofits such as Buffalo Peacemakers, the Public Accountability Initiative and Prisoners Are People, Too.

"I think it made a tremendous difference," said Franchelle C.H. Parker, Open Buffalo's executive director. "For some organizations, this was their very first funding."

+3 2021 election issues: Does Byron Brown deserve credit for Buffalo's population increase? Brown's supporters in Buffalo's immigrant communities say he is doing the right things to make newcomers feel welcome in the city, but India Walton says she will do even more for them.

Lining up behind Walton

Coincidentally or not, plenty of people who work at or serve on the boards of Buffalo's progressive nonprofits are putting their money behind Walton.
Loraine Steingasser testified that she told Mandy to be home by midnight that night. That was in part because she had spent an entire night seven to 10 days earlier with Christopher Palesh, a boyfriend who testified Monday he left town for Florida on Sept. 17.

"Anytime she went anywhere, she had to call me and when she came home, she had to wake me up," the mother said.

But the only calls she received on the night of Sept. 18-19, 1993, were a hang-up call from an unknown source and then one from a male who asked if Mandy was home.

Loraine Steingasser said she recognized Blazynski's voice in the background urging, "Ask if Mandy's home."

Blazynski said she made the hang-up call and Mielcarek made the second call. Frank said Mielcarek made both calls. Mielcarek said he doesn't remember making any calls.

But he did remember Belstadt, whom he said he barely knew, coming to his house on the morning of Sept. 19 to ask if he knew where Mandy was.

"He said she was missing," testified Mielcarek, who said he hadn't heard that before Belstadt told him.

"I said, 'How do you know she's missing?' " Mielcarek testified. "He said he gave her a ride."
Belstadt, who was 18 at the time, told police he made no sexual advances toward Steingasser.

"Yet the evidence will show that two of her pubic hairs were found in his car  not in the seat she was seen getting into," Granchelli said during his 25-minute statement.

"You're not going to hear any evidence that Joe Belstadt even touched her, let alone killed her," Bergevin, who spoke for almost twice as long as Granchelli, told the jury.

She detailed DNA findings from the victim's jacket and underwear, all of which excluded Belstadt as a possible source of the genetic material. She said there were pubic hairs on the outside of the young woman's jeans, and they belonged to neither Belstadt nor Steingasser.

"There is only one reasonable, logical answer to the question 'What happened to Mandy?' " Granchelli said. "The evidence proves that the defendant, Joseph Belstadt, knows the answer to that question, because he murdered her."

"All the science in this case, all the logic in this case, points away" from Belstadt, Bergevin told the jury. "Since the evidence points away from Joe, they're going to try to distract you with words like 'false alibi.' "
Wilkinson, 44, is a newcomer to politics who is running on a platform of fiscal accountability and spending control. He holds both the Republican and Conservative party lines. He has received the endorsement of the Erie County Sheriff's union.

"When I look at how the county spends money on patronage jobs and things like that, I wanted to look at ways to save money and be more involved in the community," Wilkinson said.

Vinal questioned his base of support, pointing out that he has lived in the district only a few years, and many of his contributions come from outside the largely Democratic district.

Vinal, 57, a longtime Amherst resident, is heavily endorsed and touts her support for Covid-19 response efforts, making changes to the county's purchasing efforts to extend opportunities to more small businesses, and directing county funds to local nonprofit and cultural organizations.

"I think I've worked extremely hard and gotten so many things done because I'm able to work with people," Vinal said of her ability to work with both Democrats and Republicans in her district.
Realtors have been regular spenders on trying to affect the outcome of state and local races; over the past decade or so, according to state election board records, the state group, local boards and associations and individual realtor firms have spent in excess of $8 million on New York races.

In the case of the money spent to help Browns campaign, the Realtors Fund was contacted earlier this summer by the Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors, according to Michael Kelly, the treasurer of the independent expenditure group and director of government affairs at the realtors trade group in Albany.

We support Mayor Browns economic policies that we believe have led to tremendous progress over the last 10 to 15 years in the City of Buffalo," Kelly said Tuesday. He added that the group believes Browns leadership and experience is needed to help the city in pandemic recovery efforts.

The head of the Buffalo Niagara Association of Realtors did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The groups members include real estate brokers, bankers, attorneys, appraisers, property managers and salespeople.

The Brown campaign did not have an immediate comment.
In all the years that Mayor Byron W. Brown has run for office in Buffalo, all sorts of political organizations have pitched in with help.

But never has the lifelong Democrat  in fact, the former state Democratic chairman  ever benefited from the Republican State Committee.

Until now.

In this most unique of Buffalo mayoral elections, mailers from state Republicans have arrived at city homes over the past few days urging voters to write in Brown's name on the ballot and lauding his "proven, common sense leadership." They also note his support for police, protection for neighborhoods and that he is "fiscally responsible."

Election 2021: Buffalo mayor Early voting begins Oct. 23, and Election Day is Nov. 2. Buffalo voters will either write down Byron Brown's name and vote him in for an unpre

Other mailers aim directly at his opponent, India B. Walton. The winner of the June Democratic primary, the mailers say, embraces a "radical agenda that will destroy Buffalo." They picture her shouting into a bullhorn and claim Walton's "destructive agenda will hurt Buffalo's economy, raise taxes, increase rents and harm property values."
It's possible that Buffalo voters will know who won the race for mayor by the time they go to bed on election night.

But the result of the hotly contested fight between Democratic nominee India B. Walton and four-term incumbent Mayor Byron W. Brown may be in doubt for weeks, Erie County's top election officials said Tuesday.

The uncertainty stems from the nature of the write-in candidacy of Brown, who lost the Democratic primary to Walton, as well as the fact that Erie County won't examine and award a single write-in vote until Nov. 16.

"This scale of write-in has never been done in New York State as far as I know," said Jeremy J. Zellner, the Democratic elections commissioner who also serves as chairman of the Erie County Democratic Party.

Zellner and Republican Elections Commissioner Ralph M. Mohr are preparing for a scenario where thousands of write-in ballots  with most likely to be cast for Brown  are counted by hand in the weeks after Election Day, with the outcome still in doubt.

"It's possible," Mohr said. "Well have a clearer picture and we will know whether its probable or not, as opposed to definitively saying this person won or this person won.

On election night, the results will fall into one of three categories: those who cast their vote for Walton, whose name is the only one on the ballot; those who cast write-in votes correctly; and those who cast write-in votes without filling in the bubble on the ballot.

That means that if Walton's votes outnumber the write-ins overwhelmingly  if, for instance, Walton receives 45,000 of 70,000 total votes  in Zellner's words, "it's over" and she will be Buffalo's 63rd mayor.

If she obviously has more than those two totals ... then shes the winner of the race, and we would be able to say unofficially that shes leading," Mohr said.

The reverse would also be true.

If the number of write-in votes clearly outnumber Walton's tally  if, for example, she gets only 20,000 votes and there are 50,000 write-ins  "most likely well know that the mayor is going to get re-elected," Zellner said. "If its a blowout one way or another, we should know who the mayor is on election night."

But there's a catch: anything resembling a close race will probably delay the outcome by weeks, they said.

There is the potential even if India Walton is leading by a slight margin on election night, that there still may be enough absentee ballots out there that have write-in votes for Brown that he can overtake that lead, Mohr said.

The delay is due to the way Erie County elections officials count the votes. They wait until 10 business days after the election  until all absentee and military ballots have been returned  before counting any write-in votes.

We do it all at once at that point," Mohr said. "Just for economys sake.

That means that while the board will know how many write-ins were cast  and whether they were cast correctly  on election night, election officials will not even begin counting the actual write-in votes until Nov. 16.

Its basically going to be the same exact process as it always is," Zellner said. "We will be hand-counting the ballots for mayor, and well be doing it in a bipartisan fashion. We dont want to get started counting without everything in. Its just not a good practice.

Asked why the write-in count could not begin earlier, Mohr said, Because were doing other stuff. Were not sitting on our hands for two weeks. What were doing is were researching the provisional ballots. Why didnt this persons name appear in the book and why did they cast a vote? Do they live in Sardinia and are trying to vote in the City of Buffalo, or did they move? So that takes time. Were making sure that people arent voting twice. Believe me, were very busy.

Jesse Myerson, spokesperson for the Walton campaign, said Walton is "fully prepared to respect the rules as stated by the commissioners."

The Brown campaign did not respond to a message seeking comment.

The commissioners said they have met with both campaigns and their lawyers to go over schedules and set ground rules. They say that any ballot disputes may end up in court.

This will all probably be litigated if its really close, Zellner said.

How supporters of Brown or lesser-known candidates cast their write-in votes may add to the confusion. The Buffalo News asked the elections commissioners to answer likely questions about casting votes for either candidate.

Is it necessary to fill in the write-in bubble on the ballot for the vote to count?

Not necessary, but recommended. Elections officials are instructing voters to fill in the bubble, but a legible write-in without the bubble should still count.

Do you have to spell Byron Brown exactly right? What if voter just writes "Brown?" What if voter writes "Brian Brown?"

Elections officials say they try to discern the voter's "intent." The variations above would "probably" count, the commissioners said, though they caution that in a close election, anything in dispute is likely to be challenged by the opposing campaign.

What would disqualify a write-in vote?

Filling in the bubble for Walton on the Democratic line and also writing in her name will likely disqualify the vote, Mohr said. Writing in Brown's name in the wrong column would disqualify that vote, Zellner said.

Can a stamp be used to cast a write-in vote?

Stamps are OK, stickers are not.

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A federal judge in March ordered Sibick held without bond until his trial. He has pleaded not guilty.

Jackson earlier this month denied Sibick's motion to reopen the detention hearing. Defense lawyer Stephen F. Brennwald sought to reopen the hearing after watching a video recording that he said had not been previously shown to any court and that he said "seriously undercuts" the governments case against Sibick. While denying the motion Oct. 1, the judge told Sibick that he could file a motion to review the detention order on other grounds if he chose to do so. Sibick's letter to the judge was filed Oct. 18.

"In an attempt to provide an understanding of who I am I felt compelled to write, because my conduct on January 6th was unequivocally an aberration of the high moral standards I hold myself to," Sibick wrote. "What happened at the United States Capitol that day does not provide an adequate representation of my character.

"Although I strive for excellence I will be the first to admit that I am not perfect," he added. "My life has been full of joyful times, however there has been a fair share of growing pains, none more significant than what I am currently experiencing. The shame, dishonor, and regret endured are without question the worst emotions ever experienced."
Court records provided some details about the death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of "Rust" near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Authorities have said that the assistant director, Dave Halls, handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced "cold gun," indicating that the weapon was safe to use.

In an affidavit released Sunday night, the film's director, Joel Souza, said Baldwin was rehearsing a scene in which he drew a revolver from his holster and pointed it toward the camera, which Hutchins and Souza were behind. Souza, who was wounded by the shot, said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds.

It's not clear yet where the gun-handling protocol failed. Souza said the movie's guns were usually checked by armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and then again by Halls.

At least two people have aired doubts about Halls' safety record.

In an email statement to The Associated Press, a producer for the movie "Freedom's Path" confirmed Monday that Halls was fired from the 2019 production after a crew member suffered a minor injury "when a gun was unexpectedly discharged." The producer, who asked not to be identified by name, wrote that Halls "was removed from the set immediately." Production did not resume until Halls was gone.
While ASEAN took a major step in excluding Min Aung Hlaing from the summit, a group of lawmakers working to improve rights in the region, ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights, urged the bloc on Tuesday to engage with Myanmars opposition National Unity Government. NUG views itself as a shadow government and had sought to attend the ASEAN summit.

ASEAN must discontinue inviting any other junta representatives to all ASEAN official meetings until there is an end to violence, all political prisoners are freed, and the will of the people for fully fledged democracy has been heard," the group said in a statement.

On Monday, a senior U.S. official held a virtual meeting with two NUG representatives. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan underscored U.S. continued support for the pro-democracy movement and expressed concern over the militarys violence.

Sullivan said Washington will continue to seek the release of all those unjustly detained, including prominent pro-democracy activist Ko Jimmy, who was arrested in a raid on Saturday.

Meanwhile, the United Nations on Monday appointed former U.N. undersecretary-general Noeleen Heyzer of Singapore as its new special envoy for Myanmar. She will succeed Christine Schraner Burgener of Switzerland, whose term ends Sunday.
On June 22, New York City residents voted in their first ranked choice voting (RCV) election. They chose to embrace ranked choice voting by ballot initiative in 2019.

While New York was not the first city to embrace RCV, it was the largest city to use it. RCV is not a new concept  it simply asks the voters to rank the candidates on the ballot instead of just choosing their favorite.

There are several benefits that come with ranked choice voting. First, being able to rank candidates helps voters better express their opinions. This helps them feel more connected with the election process, increasing feelings of political efficacy and trust in government. In fact, in New York City, nearly 40% of voters believed that ranking allowed them to better vote their values while also giving them more of a say in who was ultimately elected.

Additionally, RCV should reduce the negativity of political campaigns and make them more civil. Since voters can rank the candidates, the candidates are incentivized to compete for a second- or third-place vote if they are not a voters first choice. That means they are also incentivized to campaign civilly against their opponents.
The attack ad put out by her campaign seems beneath Dixon, a former TV news reporter and member of the Erie County Legislature. She should renounce the ad and apologize to Hardwick and the voters of Erie County.

In a meeting with The News Editorial Board this month, Dixon complained that her political opponents have linked her to Chris Collins and Mychajliw in an effort to run campaigns against somebody other than me.

I am my own person, she said, and it would be nice if they had the courage to run against me and debate the issues rather than run against somebody other than me.

And yet, that is exactly what the fake Hardwick ad does, portraying her opponent as being a supporter of the former Republican president.

With early voting underway and Election Day approaching, negative political ads are no surprise. Many of them distort facts or bend the truth, but the fake Hardwick mailer goes beyond the usual gamesmanship.
FILE PHOTO: The U.S. Capitol Building is stormed by a pro-Trump mob on Jan. 6, 2021

By Mark Hosenball

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A former National Guard member who served in Iraq pleaded guilty on Tuesday to a felony charge of assaulting a U.S. Capitol police officer during the Jan. 6 riot at the Capitol by supporters of then-President Donald Trump.

Mark Leffingwell, 52, of Seattle, was arrested on federal riot-related charges shortly after Jan. 6, but was released on bail after a brief period in detention.

Leffingwell pleaded guilty to attacking Capitol Police officer Daniel Amendola during the assault on the U.S. seat of government, although he said at Tuesday's hearing before U.S. District Judge Amy Berman Jackson that he pushed two police officers after they pushed him and then pushed one of them again.

Defense lawyer Mark Carroll confirmed to the court that Leffingwell pushed two policemen during the riot and "he shouldn't have done it."

Leffingwell told the court: "I shouldn't have gone in (to the Capitol) . ... I was not trying to attack."

Jackson said the charge to which Leffingwell pleaded guilty carried a prison term of up to eight years and a fine of up to $250,000. But the judge said federal sentencing guidelines recommended Leffingwell serve a prison term of 24 to 30 months and pay a fine of between $10,000 and $95,000.

The judge tentatively set Feb. 10 for sentencing.

More than 660 defendants face charges for the Capitol assault in which supporters of Trump attempted to stop Congress from certifying Democrat Joe Biden's November 2020 election victory. Trump has falsely claimed he lost because of widespread voter fraud.

Later on Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Trevor McFadden set June 13, 2022, for the trial of Kevin and Hunter Seefried, a father and son from Delaware who face felony riot charges.

Prosecutors say that shortly after entering the Senate side of the Capitol, Kevin Seefried was photographed holding a Confederate flag. Prosecutors also cited video posted on Twitter that they said shows Hunter Seefried punching out glass in a Capitol complex window. The Seefrieds have pleaded not guilty to all charges.

(Reporting by Mark Hosenball; Editing by Peter Cooney)
(CNN)  Facebook has for years struggled to crack down on content related to what it calls domestic servitude: "a form of trafficking of people for the purpose of working inside private homes through the use of force, fraud, coercion or deception," according to internal Facebook documents reviewed by CNN.

The company has known about human traffickers using its platforms in this way since at least 2018, the documents show. It got so bad that in 2019, Apple threatened to pull Facebook and Instagram's access to the App Store, a platform the social media giant relies on to reach hundreds of millions of users each year. Internally, Facebook employees rushed to take down problematic content and make emergency policy changes avoid what they described as a "potentially severe" consequence for the business.

But while Facebook managed to assuage Apple's concerns at the time and avoid removal from the app store, issues persist. The stakes are significant: Facebook documents describe women trafficked in this way being subjected to physical and sexual abuse, being deprived of food and pay, and having their travel documents confiscated so they can't escape. Earlier this year, an internal Facebook report noted that "gaps still exist in our detection of on-platform entities engaged in domestic servitude" and detailed how the company's platforms are used to recruit, buy and sell what Facebook's documents call "domestic servants."

Last week, using search terms listed in Facebook's internal research on the subject, CNN located active Instagram accounts purporting to offer domestic workers for sale, similar to accounts that Facebook researchers had flagged and removed. Facebook removed the accounts and posts after CNN asked about them, and spokesperson Andy Stone confirmed that they violated its policies.

"We prohibit human exploitation in no uncertain terms," Stone said. "We've been combatting human trafficking on our platform for many years and our goal remains to prevent anyone who seeks to exploit others from having a home on our platform."

CNN has reviewed internal Facebook documents included in disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugen's legal counsel. The redacted versions were obtained by a consortium of 17 US news organizations, including CNN. In addition to information about human trafficking content on Facebook's apps, the documents provide deep insights into the company's approach to misinformation and hate speech moderation, internal research on its newsfeed algorithm, communications related to the Capitol Riot and more.

The Apple threat, first reported by The Wall Street Journal last month, represents the potentially dire consequences of Facebook's continued challenges with moderating problematic content on its platforms, especially in non-English-speaking countries. In one SEC complaint related to the issue, representatives for Haugen wrote: "Investors would have been very interested to learn the truth about Facebook almost losing access to the Apple App Store because of its failure to stop human trafficking on its products." The revelation also comes as tensions between Facebook and Apple have risen in recent months over user privacy issues.

Stone directed CNN to a letter Facebook sent last summer to several United Nations representatives about its efforts to combat human trafficking on its platform. In the letter, the company notes that domestic servitude content is "rarely reported to us by users."

"To counter these challenges ... we have also developed technology that can proactively find and take action on content related to domestic servitude," Facebook said in the letter. "By using it, we have been able to detect and remove over 4,000 pieces of violating organic content in Arabic and English from January 2020 to date."

Facebook has tried to discredit some earlier reporting by the Wall Street Journal and Haugen's testimony to a Senate subcommittee earlier this month. In a tweet last week ahead of "The Facebook Papers" publication, Facebook Vice President of Communications John Pinette said: "A curated selection out of millions of documents at Facebook can in no way be used to draw fair conclusions about us."

A 'severe' risk to Facebook's business

In the fall of 2019, the BBC approached Facebook about an investigation it was soon to publish about an illegal online marketplace for domestic workers  which operated in part using Instagram  and shared the hashtags it had used to locate the content, according to an internal Facebook report. In response, Facebook removed 703 Instagram profiles promoting domestic servitude, but "due to the underreporting of this behavior and absence of proactive detection," other domestic servitude remained on the platform, the report states.

Following the publication of the BBC investigation, Apple contacted Facebook on October 23, 2019, threatening to remove its apps from the App Store for hosting content that facilitated human trafficking. In a November 2019 internal document titled "Apple Escalation on Domestic Servitude -- how we made it through this [Site Event]" a Facebook employee detailed the actions the company took over the course of a week to mitigate the threat, including taking action against more than 130,000 pieces of domestic servitude-related content in Arabic on Facebook and Instagram, expanding the scope of its policy against domestic servitude content and launching proactive detection tools in Arabic and English.

"Removing our applications from Apple platforms would have had potentially severe consequences to the business, including depriving millions of users of access to IG & FB," the document states. "To mitigate against this risk, we formed part of a large working group operating around the clock to develop and implement our response strategy."

Despite the scramble during that week, Facebook had been well aware of such content before the BBC reached out. "Was this issue known to Facbeook before the BBC enquiry and Apple escalation?" the internal report states, "Yes."

In March 2018, Facebook workers assigned to the Middle East and North Africa market flagged reports of Instagram profiles dedicated to selling domestic laborers, internal documents show. At the time, these reports "were not actioned as our policies did not acknowledge the violation," a September 2019 internal report on domestic servitude content states.

Stone, the Facebook spokesperson, said the company did have a policy prohibiting human exploitation abuses at the time. "We have had such a policy for a long time. It was strengthened after that point," he added.

Internal Facebook documents show that Facebook launched an expanded "Human Exploitation Policy" on May 29, 2019 that included a prohibition on domestic servitude content related to recruitment, facilitation and exploitation.

In September 2019, a Facebook employee posted to the company's internal site a summary of an investigation into a trans-national human trafficking network that used Facebook apps to facilitate the sale and sexual exploitation of at least 20 potential victims. The criminal network used more than 100 fake Facebook and Instagram accounts to recruit female victims from various countries, and used Messenger and WhatsApp to coordinate transportation of the women to Dubai, where they were forced to work in facilities disguised as "massage parlors," the summary said.

The investigation identified $152,000 spent to buy advertisements on its platforms related to the scheme, including ads targeting men in Dubai. The company removed all pages and accounts related to the trafficking ring, according to the report. Among the recommended "action items" listed for response to the investigation is a request that Facebook clarify policies for how it handles ad revenue associated with human trafficking to "prevent reputational risk for the company (not to profit from ads spent for HT)."

About a week later, a subsequent report outlined more broadly the issue of domestic servitude abuse on Facebook's platforms. The document includes samples of advertisements for workers posted to Instagram; one describes a 38-year-old Indian woman for sale for the equivalent of around $350 (the company says it removed the related accounts).

Ongoing challenges

More recent documents show that despite efforts Facebook took to remove such content immediately and in the weeks and months following the Apple threat, it has still struggled to regulate domestic servitude content.

A report distributed internally in January 2020 found that "our platform enables all three stages of the human exploitation lifecycle (recruitment, facilitation, exploitation) via complex real-world networks," and identified some commonly-used naming conventions for domestic servitude accounts to help with detection. Traffickers from labor "recruitment agencies" used "FB profiles, IG Profiles, Pages, Messenger and WhatsApp to exchange victims' documentation ... promote the victims for sale, and arrange buying, selling and other fees," the document said of one trafficking network the company identified.

In a February 2021 report, researchers found that often labor recruitment agencies communicated with victims via direct messages but rarely posted post public content violations, making them difficult to detect. The report also said Facebook lacks "robust proactive detection methods ... of Domestic Servitude in English and Tagalog to prevent recruitment," although the Philippines is a top source country for victims, and that it didn't have detection capabilities turned on for Facebook stories. The report laid out plans for a preventative educational campaign for workers, and said researchers identified at least 1.7 million users who could benefit from information about workers' rights.

"While our previous efforts are a start to addressing the off-platform harm that results from domestic servitude, opportunities remain to improve prevention, detection, and enforcement," the February report stated. The company has implemented on-platform interventions to remind people seeking employment of their rights, and has information on its Help Center for users who encounter human trafficking content, Stone said.

And although Facebook researchers have heavily investigated the issue, domestic servitude content appears to still be active and easily found on Instagram. Using several common account naming trends highlighted in one domestic servitude internal research document, CNN last week identified multiple Instagram accounts purporting to offer domestic workers for sale, including one whose account name translates to "Offering domestic workers" that features photos and descriptions of women, including their age, height, weight, length of available contract and other personal information. Facebook confirmed these posts violated its policies and removed them after CNN asked about them.

In early 2021, Facebook launched "search interventions" in English, Spanish and Arabic that create "friction" in search when users "type in certain keywords related to certain topics (that we have vetted with academic experts)," according to Stone. He added that the company launched these search interventions for sex trafficking, sexual solicitation and prostitution in English, and for domestic servitude and labor exploitation in Arabic

"Our goal is to help deter people from searching for this type of content," Stone said. "We're continuing to refine this experience to include links to helpful resources and expert organizations."

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Facebook has known it has a human trafficking problem for years. It still hasn't fully fixed it"
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 25)  The Department of Environment and Natural Resources announced on Monday the closure of Manila Baywalks dolomite beach for six days in observance of the All Saints' Day and All Souls Day.

The controversial beach area will be closed from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3.

The DENR also said children aged 12 years old and below will not be allowed to enter the site in compliance with the national government's COVID-19 health and safety guidelines.

"We would like to strongly remind everyone that the National Capital Region is under Alert Level No. 3, we are still in a pandemic, and the virus is still present," the DENR said in its statement.

About 65,000 people flocked to the artificial beach on Sunday alone, according to the police.

Manila Baywalk Coordinating Office deputy executive director Jacob Meimban said his office had no complete control over the crowd since anyone can simply enter the premises, adding the crowding could get worse if they restrict entry because people will gather in a tighter space.

The Department of Health reminded the local government of Manila and concerned national agencies to regulate and even revise the process if they cannot control the crowd.

Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire noted that the officials overseeing the dolomite beach violated the capacity allowed for outdoor spaces.

"Sinabi kapag Alert Level 3, ang outdoors natin 50% capacity. 'Yung nakita natin nung weekend, hindi po 'yun 50% capacity," she said.

[Translation: If it's Alert Level 3, outdoor spaces should be at 50% capacity. What we saw over the weekend was not 50% capacity.]

Several doctors also sounded the alarm. Infectious diseases expert Dr. Benjamin Co called for the permanent closure of the dolomite beach.

"First of all, its such a super spreader event. Even if it is outdoors, there is no distancing anymore. And children are allowed! Children are currently allowed only for essential travel. The government needs to make sure that local government units implement what the guidelines allow. Otherwise, this double standard on allowing events according to their standards will end up badly," he said.

The national government pushed for the opening of the Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach in September 2020. Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said the white sand would help Filipinos' mental health amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  The Office of the Ombudsman will soon release the result of its investigation into supposed irregularities in the government's pandemic response.

"We are now almost finished in the investigation on the delayed payment of benefits to fallen health workers," Ombudsman Samuel Martires told CNN Philippines' The Source on Tuesday, referring to the probe his office launched in June 2020.

"Lalabas na ho yung isang aspeto ng (We will release one aspect of the) investigation last year. I hope the investigators will complete the resolution within the month," he said.

In June last year, the Office of the Ombudsman launched a probe into the following issues:

- the delayed procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE), and other medical gear necessary for the protection of healthcare workers

- alleged lapses and irregularities that led to the death of medical workers and the rising number of deaths and infected medical frontliners

- inaction in the release and processing of benefits and financial assistance of fallen and infected medical frontliners

- the confusing and delayed reporting of Covid 19 related deaths and confirmed cases.

"Why was I so passionate about these things last year? Because I was so affected. And I was thinking, had the PPEs been purchased prior to the declaration of the lockdown, siguro we could have avoided the death of medical practitioners or health workers," he said.

Martires said they are also looking into issues surrounding the Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corp., which bagged billions of pesos in state deals in COVID-19 equipment.

"While the Senate and House are investigating, we are also investigating," Maritres said.

Meanwhile, he clarified that the Office of the Ombudsman has not launched any investigation against Senate Blue Ribbon Committee Chair Richard Gordon, whom President Rodrigo Duterte accused of failing to settle misused public funds when the lawmaker was the chairperson of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority.

READ: Duterte threatens to file case against Gordon for alleged malversation of 86-M fund

Martires said Duterte neither filed a formal complaint nor followed up on the issue with his office.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines)  The University of the Philippines - International Center for Authorities and Leaders Philippines (UP-CIFAL Philippines), together with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research and the Department of Foreign Affairs, hosted the International Conference on Human Mobility and Climate Action on October 18 to 20.

The conference provided a venue for discourse on how leaders, communities and agencies could respond to the complex challenges of human mobility and climate change, and explore possible ways forward with timely, scientific and rights-based adaptive responses.

According to the 2020 World Migration Report, millions of people globally move in anticipation or as a response to environmental stresses. Climate factors and their complex interaction with various drivers of migration, including economic, political, cultural and demographic factors, shape the intention and decision-making process.

The conference brought in more than 30 local and international experts on human mobility, climate change, environmental migration, disaster risk reduction, urban planning and development, and human rights and social protection.

It was also attended by around 200 participants composed of climate and environmental scientists, migration and development experts, disaster risk reduction specialists, representatives of international organizations, public servants and leaders of national government agencies and local government, members of the legislature, representatives of the industry, academic institutions, and civil society organizations.

The three-day conference consisted of four plenary and eight parallel sessions, each discussing a topic relating to the nexus between human mobility and climate change.

Photo from UP-CIFAL

The participants discussed and debated on disaster risk reduction and resilience, safe and dignified resettlement and planned relocation, sustainable urban development for smart and liveable cities, upskilling environmental migrants, social protection for migrants, and emergency response.

Discussions last October 18 centered on urban governance. The topics were human mobility, environment and climate change nexus; harnessing neighborhood studies for sustainable communities; sustainable urban development and management for livable and resilient cities; disaster risk reduction and resilience for sustainable development; and e-governance and urban planning for smart cities.

On October 19, the conference focused on social inclusion. The topics were human mobility, climate change, and emergency response; policy roadmap; social protection of migrants experiencing climate risks; human rights-based approaches to address human mobility and climate risks; upskilling environmental migrants for climate resiliency and sustainable development in local communities; women and indigenous people in the context of migration and climate change.

Environmental sustainability was the focus of the conference on October 20. The discourse centered on human mobility and climate risk management.

The conference ended with a declaration of unity crafted from the insights on existing gaps, entry points, and possible areas for collective action in addressing the issues surrounding the migration, environment, and climate change nexus.

Photo from UP-CIFAL

The declaration of unity calls for a whole-of-society approach in adaptation, mitigation, and resilience-building as the response to the climate crisis.

It also demands a comprehensive, holistic, and inclusive green migration governance that recognizes migration as a last resort. It aims that in the event of migration, the dignity, safety, and human rights of climate migrants are ensured. The declaration will then be signed by the conference partners.

The International Conference on Human Mobility and Climate Action is in partnership with CIFAL Jeju, CIFAL Newcastle, CIFAL Shanghai, International Organization for Migration, Centre for Neighbourhood Studies, and UP Resilience Institute.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Local government units will be held responsible for wasted COVID-19 vaccines, Interior Secretary Eduardo Ano warned on Monday.

Atin pong kakasuhan ang mga concerned LGUs kapag meron pong nasayang o nag-expire na mga bakuna, the DILG chief said during a meeting with President Rodrigo Duterte and other Cabinet officials.

[Translation: We will file cases against concerned LGUs if their vaccines go to waste or expire.]

The Department of Health on Oct. 18 reported that nearly 13,000 doses have been discarded or damaged since the national COVID-19 immunization drive started in March.

In an Oct. 13 Senate budget hearing, Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje said inappropriate storage conditions are the most common reason behind the wastage. There were also incidents of fire in storage facilities, while some vials were accidentally dropped, she said.

Cabotaje added that a number of vials had no label and cannot be administered, while others were considered spoiled after some particulate matter were discovered.

Based on DOH figures, over half of the cases of wastage were recorded in Metro Manila, where the bulk of the country's vaccine supply has been allocated.

Government data show that over 97 million doses have so far been delivered to the Philippines, with 55 million already administered.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26) President Rodrigo Duterte highlighted regional issues  including the crisis in Myanmar and the situation in contested waters  during his speech at the 38th and 39th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summits and Related Summits on Tuesday.

"I am deeply concerned that the ongoing situation in Myanmar may further exacerbate the effects of the pandemic," Duterte said in his intervention.

"While focusing on comprehensive recovery efforts, we must stand with Myanmar in resolving issues peacefully and in a manner that prioritizes the welfare of its people," he added.

Duterte urged camps in Myanmar to "engage in constructive dialogue," adding that the ASEAN Special Envoy must be allowed to visit the country "to meet all relevant parties."

He also said the Philippines will have open doors for those seeking refuge from Myanmar.

Peace in South China Sea

The President likewise reiterated the call for peace and stability in the South China Sea  highlighting the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and the 2016 arbitral award in favor of the Philippines.

"We have come a long way in keeping the peace and promoting prosperity in our region. We must not allow those with diverging interests to make our efforts fail," Duterte said.

"Talks should not remain empty rhetoric. They should be translated into action to fortify the trust and confidence we have cultivated through the years. Acta non verba. Deeds, not words," he added.

Duterte also reaffirmed the Philippines' commitment to help finalize an "effective and substantive" Code of Conduct in the disputed waters, with the parties already provisionally agreeing on the preamble of the text.

He also touched on the COVID-19 pandemic, and highlighted measures that will help the region recover from the crisis.

The chief executive also stressed the need for urgent climate action, and pointed out the consequences of a warming climate for developing coastal countries like the Philippines.

The summits  chaired by Brunei  will run until October 28th.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Manila Mayor Isko Moreno on Tuesday challenged the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases (IATF) to file charges against Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) officials, as crowds swelled at the Manila Bay dolomite beach  which can be a "superspreader event."

"I am calling the IATF. Charge those people in DENR of violating our rules. If we cannot implement it within their offices, then there is no point to implement this sa mga taong bayan (on our people)," Moreno said in an interview with ANC's Headstart.

Moreno, who is seeking the presidency in 2022, said the DENR did not coordinate with the city government on the reopening of the dolomite beach.

"Dapat yung mga nagpapatupad din sa national government ay may kusang palo din na sumunod. Binuksan nila, eh hindi naman kami in-inform," he said.

[Translation: National government officials implementing the health protocols should also follow them. They opened it, but they did not inform us.]

The Department of Health earlier said officials overseeing the artificial beach violated the capacity allowed for outdoor spaces after thousands of people visited the area on Sunday.

In areas under Alert Level 3 - which includes Metro Manila - outdoor spaces should only allow 50% capacity.

"Due diligence must be observed, especially in this situation wherein it can be a superspreader," Moreno said.

DENR's side

DENR Undersecretary Benny Antiporda said they received a letter from the city government expressing its support for the Manila Bay rehabilitation, and asking guidelines on the safety protocols being implemented in the dolomite beach.

"The documents that we received last night is asking us on our plans and what are the strategies that we're using in trying to control the crowd," Antiporda said during a Palace briefing.

"So very ano pa nga, very supportive pa ho 'yung letter niya [The letter is even very supportive] and the letter started with...'We are in full support of the project of the DENR.'"

Antiporda added that the issue on social distancing was addressed by allowing only 400 people at a time, and reminding them after five minutes to give way to the next batch of visitors.

In an interview with CNN Philippines' News.PH, Antiporda also offered an explanation to the overcrowding - which was evident on social media.

"'Yung nakunan po kasi ng litrato at video nung umaga, 'yan po 'yung umulan," he explained. "Nung umulan, biglang umalis 'yung mga tao, then biglang bumalik nung tumigil 'yung ulan. Ang daming dumating, so immediately inaksyunan naman po so hindi naman siya napabayaan talaga."

[Translation: The photos and videos were taken in the morning when it rained. People left the area because of the downpour, but then abruptly returned when the rain stopped. There were suddenly a lot of people, but we immediately addressed that, so it isn't true that we didn't do our job.]

Maintaining authorities have "done their best" in implementing rules, Antiporda said he believes there is no reason for a case to be filed against the DENR.

He added he is puzzled over Moreno's statement, noting the city government is also part of the Manila Bay Task Force.

"Kaya I don't know how did the mayor come up with such a statement when iisa po kami sa inter-agency task force. So, just hoping na hindi po ganun, he didn't mean what he's saying," he said.

[Translation: I don't know how the mayor came up with such a statement when we are part of the same inter-agency task force. So, just hoping he didn't mean what he's saying.]

In a separate briefing on Tuesday, the DENR also said only children aged 12 and above are allowed to visit the dolomite beach.

It also said it is eyeing to develop the artificial beach into a tourist spot.

For its part, Malacanang said it is leaving the possible filing of charges to the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the police, and the Manila city government.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Ombudsman Samuel Martires maintained the validity of his proposal to amend Republic Act 6713, noting that commentaries on the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth may unduly cast aspersions against government officials.

Speaking to CNN Philippines' The Source on Tuesday, Martires explained that RA 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, has long included jail time for violators.

"Liwanagin ko [I just want to clarify]. I am not proposing jail term for those who violate the SALN, or for the media, no. It is already in the law," he said.

Under Section 8 of RA 6713, 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.

Section 11 states that violation of the law "shall be punishable with imprisonment not exceeding five (5) years, or a fine not exceeding five thousand pesos (P5,000.00), or both, and, in the discretion of the court of competent jurisdiction, disqualification to hold public office."

But Martires earlier sought to amend it to include commentaries on the SALN of public officials as another form of violation. According to him, it should be clarified whether "news and communications" disseminated by the media should include commentaries in the first place.

"Ang gusto lang namin liwanagin [What we want to be clear about] is to define the word 'news,' not pursuant to the journalistic standards definition, but for the purposes of this law. Should news be defined to include commentaries or comparison of present SALN with previous SALNs?" he said.

Martires reasoned that his proposed amendment is meant to harmonize with the provisions of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act. He also said that his proposal is in fact, intended to protect members of the media. But the public may tend to believe in insinuations of wrongdoing by comparing SALNs or commentaries alone, especially since some people tend to believe in "chismis" or gossip.

"If you compare now a previous SALN with the present SALN and say it increased by so much, if (for example), the SALN of former President Noynoy (Aquino) increased by 300%, you created an innuendo that a government official committed something wrong," he said. "You insinuated that the government official must have been bribed during his term of office."

RELATED: 'Why blame me?' Ombudsman defends decision to restrict access to SALN anew

All public officials and employees, whether regular or under temporary status, are required to file a SALN annually under the 1987 Philippine Constitution and Republic Act No. 6713.

Martires, however, remained firm with his order that releasing a SALN must also require consent from the owner of such document.

RELATED: Ombudsman tightens rules on access to SALNs of government officials

"Marami hong nabibiktima sa SALN. At ayaw kong during my term na ma-victimize itong government officials [So many people are victimized by the SALN. And I don't want government officials to be victimized under my term]," Martires said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Ombudsman Samuel Martires again defended his decision to restrict access to the statement of assets, liabilities, and net worth of public officials, saying other offices also have guidelines for the release of SALNs.

"Bakit ako lang ang sinisisi? Why are fingers pointed at me, blaming me for violating transparency? Hindi lang ako ang mayroong ganito eh," Martires told CNN Philippines' The Source on Tuesday.

[Translation: Why am I the only one being blamed? Why are fingers pointed at me, blaming me for violating transparency? I am not the only one with such guidelines.]

He pointed out that other agencies like the Supreme Court also imposed restrictions on the release of SALNs of justices and judges, while the House of Representatives has its own rules on accessing the SALNs of congressmen.

The SALNs under the custody of the Office of the Ombudsman are of the president, vice president, heads of constitutional commissions, deputy ombudsman, local officials, select uniformed personnel, and presidents of state universities.

Martires asked why the public seems to be only interested in the SALN of President Rodrigo Duterte.

Why are we so interested only in the SALN of the President? Why are we not interested in the SALN of the Vice President, in the SALN of senators and congressmen, and other constitutional officers? What is wrong? Are we selective? he said.

Under the Ombudsman's Memorandum Circular 1, a copy of the SALN will only be provided to the requester if she/he is the declarant or the duly authorized representative of the declarant, the request is upon lawful order of the court in relation to a pending case, and the request is made by this agencys field investigation office/bureau/unit for the purpose of conducting fact-finding investigation.

RELATED: Ombudsman tightens rules on access to SALNs of government officials

The Ombudsman reiterated that his decision to limit access to SALNs was triggered by reports from intelligence officers and field investigators that SALNs are allegedly being used for "extortion, harassment, and for some illegal activities."

"I studied the SALN law and I found out that while the law expressly states that the public has the right of access to information, the law did not provide a provision restricting the issuance of a regulation," he said.

He also pointed out that Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, already 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.

The Office of the Ombudsman earlier proposed amendments that would limit the media's use of the SALNs only to "reporting of facts provided in the statement and no further commentaries could be made thereon."

Martires remained firm about his decision not to release the documents under his jurisdiction without authorization from the declarants themselves.

"If fools say, don't change their mind, I will not also change my mind, so you can call me a fool," he said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Sen. Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa is still the PDP-Laban Cusi wing's standard bearer for the 2022 presidential race.

Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, the president of the ruling political party's faction, gave the assurance amid the still prevailing talks of substitution among their fielded candidates.

"Si Bato ang aming pambato, siya ang aming kandidato sa pagka-pangulo. Unless if something happened, siya po ang aming kandidato (Bato is still our bet, our candidate for president. Unless if something happened, he is stiil our candidate) for 2022," Cusi said during the party's coalition signing with Reporma Party on Tuesday.

Cusi expressed confidence that Dela Rosa will catch up in presidential surveys and people will know his platforms better in the coming days.

"I believe he's getting mileage, he's getting traction," he said.

Cusi added he's not privy to the meeting of Dela Rosa and Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte on Monday. Dela Rosa admitted he reminded the presidential daughter of the Nov. 15 substitution deadline for candidates running in the 2022 elections.

RELATED: Bato also meets with Sara, says it's 'in relation to' substitution

"Wala kaming communication kay Mayor Inday. Sabi niya, hindi siya tatakbo sa 2022. Kung magpapalit ang kanyang isip, igagalang namin ang desisyon niyang yan (We don't have any communication with Mayor Inday. She said that she will not run for president in 2022. If ever she changes her mind, we will respect her decision)," said Cusi.

Dela Rosa has said he would give way if Mayor Duterte eventually seeks the presidency instead of reelection.

Cusi added the party's original plan was to field Sen. Bong Go as president and Pres. Rodrigo Duterte as vice president for the 2022 elections.

However, Go slid down to PDP-Laban's vice presidential bet after Duterte announced his retirement from politics.

"Kung magbabago ang isip ni Pangulong Duterte (If President Duterte will change his mind), we will go back to original plan," Cusi said.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  Manila Mayor Isko Moreno said he is willing to unite with fellow presidential aspirants Vice President Leni Robredo and senators Panfilo Lacson and Manny Pacquiao if it means discussing how to address the country's problems, not just how to win the elections.

This comes amid speculations on Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte joining forces with presidential aspirant and former senator Bongbong Marcos.

"If we are going to unite on the issues at hand and challenges of our people, then I'm willing, but if we're going to unite just to win because they wanted to win, medyo hindi ako masyadong ano dun, eh (I'm not sure)," Moreno told CNN Philippines' Politics As Usual on Tuesday, when asked if he would unite Robredo, Lacson and Pacquiao.

"Kasi ang kailangan, 'yung pag-usapan natin, 'yung problema ng tao, eh," he added.

[Translation: Because what we need to talk about are the problems of the people.]

He also addressed his previous spat with Robredo's supporters, which erupted after he criticized the Vice President for mentioning that she's running for president partly because of Moreno's stance on the Marcos family.

"I have moved on," he said. "If they're offended, I'm no angel, but definitely, I'm not the devil. I'm just trying to stress some points."

Moreno reiterated that if elected, he will hold people accountable for their atrocities. He said this sentiment also applies to those behind alleged extrajudicial killings under the Duterte administrations war on drugs.

"Let's pursue it if there is liability on anybody, that includes former president, whether the family benefited from it, whoever, especially 'yung what we call na nag-abuso sa pandemya (who took advantage of the pandemic), and the EJK," he said.

Moreno also rejected rumors branding him as a "Duterte candidate" or a secret presidential bet allied with the administration.

"That's a no, but definitely, I'm a president of a party, and I ran under my party," he said.
(CNN)  Joe Biden and Donald Trump are locked in an extraordinary and escalating clash that has profound political consequences now and into 2024.

Biden took the showdown, which was triggered by the fallout over the US Capitol insurrection, up another notch on Monday by refusing to assert executive privilege over a second batch of documents that Trump wants to prevent the National Archives from turning over to the House select committing probing the January 6 attack. The development was first reported by CNN.

There have been occasions in US history when former presidents have sniped at and tried to undermine their successors. Many presidents have expressed private frustration with the antics of their predecessors. But nothing in the modern era matches the confrontation between the 45th and 46th Presidents.

Trump is mostly responsible for that. He has convinced tens of millions of his voters that Biden is an illegitimate president through lies about voter fraud. The twice-impeached former President's attempt to hamstring the January 6 committee is also in line with his repeated efforts to avoid consequences for his anti-democratic behavior.

Trump's claims that he alone has the right to assert executive privilege also appear designed to obstruct the committee's work with interminable legal suits and appeals through multiple courts.

Paradoxically, efforts to hold the former President to account may offer him the kind of oxygen he craves for his politics of insurrection. Trump had already filed a lawsuit to try to prevent an earlier batch of documents reaching the committee after Biden refused to intervene. He is all but certain to add the latest material to his suit as he seeks to disrupt the effort to investigate the origins of the mob riot he incited on January 6 and to run down the clock in the hope Republicans win the House next fall and shutter the probe.

The showdown with Biden will only fuel Trump's attempts to turn efforts to investigate the tumultuous end to his presidency into fodder for a political comeback. He's already making the midterms and the 2024 presidential election into a platform for his falsehoods that power was stolen from him in a rigged election. Trump and his allies have branded Biden's refusal to cooperate with his political power grabs as evidence of a political vendetta against the ex-President.

The last thing that Biden wants, however, is yet more confrontations with his once and potentially future rival. Since winning election last year, Biden has tried to bring a fractured country together -- even as Trump's lies about election fraud and misinformation spewed by his media propagandists have only exacerbated the mood of fury among "Make America Great Again" devotees. Sometimes, the current President has referred to his predecessor as "the former guy," not even wishing to mention his name. And the continuing tussle between Biden and Trump over documents is just one of the unfinished disputes that ensures that the poisoned legacy of the Trump presidency will linger in the United States for months and years to come.

No president since Gerald Ford  who ended up pardoning Richard Nixon after the Watergate scandal that led to his resignation  has been handed such a tortured legacy from an immediate predecessor. And Trump is only fanning the febrile mood of his supporters by almost every day challenging Biden's right to be president and inciting deeper national divides on the basis of a lie that he won the election.

But much as he wants to consign Trump to the past, Biden has little incentive to obstruct the work of the committee on the basis of a procedural matter like executive privilege. Accepting Trump's claims that he is protecting the integrity of the office of the presidency would require Biden to junk his own argument that he was elected to save American democracy, which prevailed despite a severe test in the Trump years and during the presidential transition in January. And Trump, who regularly trashed decorum and the traditions of the presidency, didn't appear too worried about protecting it in four years in the Oval Office.

But the latest escalation between Trump and Biden is also likely to further inflame the political conflagration raging ahead of Trump's potential political comeback and even a possible 2024 presidential rematch with his successor.

Committee seeks wide range of White House documentation

The National Archives is set to start turning over documents to the House committee by November 12  unless Trump gets a court order to halt the process. According to a letter from White House Counsel Dana Remus, "President Biden has determined that an assertion of executive privilege is not in the best interests of the United States, and therefore is not justified."

"Accordingly, President Biden does not uphold the former President's assertion of privilege," Remus wrote. The House select committee has specifically asked for all White House documents and communications on January 6, such as call logs, schedules and meetings of top officials and outside advisers, including Rudy Giuliani.

The showdown over the documents is not the only dispute in which Trump is trying to assert executive privilege  a doctrine under which presidents expect that their advice and internal communications from advisers is confidential. Trump has asked several senior former associates, including former White House chief of staff Mark Meadows, to also claim that they are unable to comply with subpoenas from the committee on the same grounds.

The most controversial of these cases involves Steve Bannon, who was last week cited by the House for criminal contempt of Congress. The former Trump political guru's claims are regarded by legal experts as especially thin since he was not a government official at the time of the Capitol insurrection. And apart from his conversations with Trump, the committee wants to question him over any contacts with organizers of the Trump rally that preceded the march on the Capitol on January 6.

According to Washington Post journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa in their book "Peril," Bannon was a key figure in a "war room" at Washington, DC's, Willard Hotel, that also included Giuliani, and had multiple contacts with the then-President and attempted to pressure then-Vice President Mike Pence to refuse to certify Biden's election in Congress. A decision on whether to prosecute Bannon in yet another legal proceeding that could delay the work of the committee now rests with the Justice Department.

The question of how far ex-presidents can assert executive privilege has not been definitively tested in the courts, which is one reason why Trump's claims could lead to prolonged litigation and a potentially historic moment. Presidents have sometimes been open to executive privilege claims from predecessors in the apparent hope that they can expect similar courtesy when they leave office.

General practice has been that past presidents consult with the legal team in the current White House and the sitting president makes a final adjudication on the privilege claim. The privilege is considered to reside with the sitting president  not any individual who has held the post; hence Biden's final say on Trump's claims.

And few modern presidents have lodged such high-profile and controversial claims of privilege as Trump, who is trying to prevent the truth about the worst attack on US democracy in generations from coming out.

This story was first published on CNN.com "Biden's refusal of executive privilege claim ignites new firestorm with Trump"
(CNN)  Francis Wayne Alexander's remains were found more than 40 years ago in the crawl space of infamous serial killer John Wayne Gacy's home.

For decades their identity was a mystery, but through the work of a non-profit group called the DNA Doe Project (DDP) and police in the Chicago area, genetic genealogy helped solve the case.

According to the group's website, a tooth from the victim was sent to a lab in California for DNA extraction. A sample of the DNA was sent to a lab in Alabama for sequencing.

The data file went to a genetics investigations company in Texas that uploaded the information to GEDmatch.

"DNA matches in the second cousin range were found, enabling DDP's team of volunteer genetic genealogists to construct family trees and identify Francis Wayne Alexander as a candidate for Gacy Victim #5," the DNA Doe Project said.

Alexander's remains were found December 26, 1978, under Gacy's home in Norwood Park Township northwest of Chicago. Alexander likely was killed between early 1976 and early 1977.

"He had both the misfortune of living in the area where John Wayne Gacy did most of his killing, where he targeted most of his victims. He also had the misfortune of also operating in an area where John Gacy targeted specific people and specific groups as well," Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said, according to CNN affiliate WLS.

Police said Alexander, who was born in North Carolina and went to Chicago after living in New York, was 21 or 22 when he was killed.

After being given the DNA information by the DDP, the sheriff's office got DNA samples from Alexander's mother and a half-brother. Their DNA had a "a strong genetic association" to the victim found at Gacy's home, the sheriff's office said.

"Sheriff's Police also combed through financial records, public records, post-mortem reports, and other data to confirm that Victim #5 and Alexander were the same person," the office said in the news release.

The sheriff's office formally told Alexander's family about the discovery Friday.

Family says learning of death is still hard

The sheriff's news release included a statement from the family.

"It is hard, even 45 years later, to know the fate of our beloved Wayne. He was killed at the hands of a vile and evil man. Our hearts are heavy, and our sympathies go out to the other victims' families. Our only comfort is knowing this killer no longer breathes the same air as we do," the family said.

Gacy was arrested in December 1978. Authorities said he had lured his victims into his home over six years. To get them there, he had promised construction jobs, drugs and alcohol, or by posing as a police officer or by offering money for sex. Police said he often targeted hitchhikers and people at bus stations.

Twenty-seven victims were excavated from the crawl space. Another was under his garage, and there was one more in his back yard. Four others had been thrown into the Des Plaines River after, Gacy told investigators, he ran out of room in the crawl space.

Gacy was convicted in 1980 of murdering 33 boys and young men, making him, at the time, the most prolific serial killer in US history. He was executed in 1994.

In 2011, the Cook County Sheriff's Office launched an effort to identify the eight unidentified victims.

William Bundy and Jimmy Haakenson were ID'd in 2011 and 2017, respectively, using DNA. Five of Gacy's victims have yet to be identified.

This story was first published on CNN.com, "John Wayne Gacy victim identified through DNA from tooth."
(CNN)  Sudan's military dissolved its power-sharing government and declared a state of emergency Monday, catapulting the country into its biggest political crisis in its two-year-old transition.

The coup comes after months of rising tensions in the country, where military and civilian groups have shared power in a shaky transitional coalition, called the Sovereign Council, since former president Omar al-Bashir was ousted from power in 2019.

Last week, Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok said a full transition to civilian rule should be in place by November 17, echoing the voices of thousands of Sudanese protesters who took to the streets to demand that the promise of Sudan's pro-democracy movement be honored.

But on Monday the PM and multiple government ministers and officials were arrested.

Hamdok and his wife Muna Abdallah, who had been placed under house arrest earlier in the day, have been detained in an undisclosed location, his economic adviser Adam Hireka told CNN.

Hours later, the head of Sudan's armed forces dashed hopes that an elected government would be in place anytime soon.

In a televised address, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said an "independent and fair representative government" would assume power until one is elected in 2023. Several articles of the constitution have been suspended and state governors removed, he said.

Sudan's Information Ministry said in a Facebook post Hamdok "is still the legitimate transitional authority in the country" and claimed the Prime Minister was "kidnapped" along with a number of his ministers.

On Monday morning, military forces stormed Sudan's state broadcaster and detained workers in the city of Omdurman, near the capital, Khartoum, according to the Ministry of Information.

As reports of an apparent military takeover began to spread across the country, protestors were seen gathering in Khartoum, lighting bonfires and setting up roadblocks.

Hamdok had been under pressure to release a statement "in support of the takeover," a statement from the Information Ministry read, but instead he called on pro-democracy protestors take to the streets in peaceful protest.

"Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, in a message from his house arrest, asks the Sudanese to adhere to peaceful (means of protest) and occupy the streets to defend their revolution," the ministry said.

'Worry in our hearts'

Multiple videos posted to social media on Monday showed hundreds of demonstrators walking towards army headquarters, chanting: "We are walking holding worry in our hearts  and worry sleeps in people's chests."

Some videos showed protestors removing razor wire that had been placed across a road amid reports of street closures in several parts of the city.

Bullets were fired at protesters demonstrating against the coup outside Sudan's General Command in the city, the Ministry of Information said in another statement. The ministry said there were casualties, but did not clarify how many shots were fired, or who was shooting at demonstrators.

The Central Committee of Sudan Doctors, who are aligned with the civil component of the now-dissolved Sovereign Council, said that three people were killed and more than 80 were injured in the incident. Earlier, the group said at least two people were killed.

Earlier Monday, one eyewitness told CNN demonstrators had blocked three main bridges in Khartoum, including one that connects Omdurman to the capital and leads to the presidential palace. Security forces briefly fired tear gas near that bridge to disperse protesters, the eyewitness said, explaining that the security forces patrolling the streets are mainly military and paramilitary Rapid Support Forces. There was minimal police presence on the streets, the eyewitness added.

As chaotic scenes played out across the capital, flights from Khartoum International Airport were canceled, and mobile phone networks and internet access were disrupted.

Internet monitoring site NetBlocks confirmed internet connectivity was "severely disrupted" in Sudan on Monday, "manifesting in a telecommunications blackout for many."

Political crisis

Military and civilian groups have been sharing power since Bashir was ousted in 2019.

But following a failed coup attempt in September, attributed to forces loyal to Bashir, military leaders have been demanding reforms to the Forces of Freedom and Change (FFC) coalition and the replacement of the cabinet.

Civilian leaders, however, had accused them of aiming for a power grab.

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in front of the presidential palace in Khartoum on October 17 calling for the military to seize power. They were organized by a military-aligned faction of the FFC, and called for Burhan to initiate a coup and overthrow the government.

Days later, thousands of protesters took to the streets in a number of cities in support of civilian rule within the country's power-sharing government.

Global leaders were watching the unfolding events in Sudan with concern on Monday; the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the African Union and the United Nations all urged stakeholders to return to the country's democratic transition process.

The US said it is pausing $700 million in emergency assistance to Sudan in the wake of a military takeover, State Department spokesperson Ned Price announced Monday. The funds were "intended to support the country's democratic transition," Price said at a press briefing.

"Our entire relationship with this entity in Sudan will be evaluated in light of what has transpired, unless Sudan is returned to the transitional path," Price added. "The civilian-led transitional government should be immediately restored."

Special Envoy Jeffrey Feltman, who visited Sudan over the weekend, said in a tweet on the official account of the US State Department's Africa Bureau the military takeover "is utterly unacceptable" and "would contravene the Constitutional Declaration and the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people."

The British government also lambasted the coup, with Minister for Africa Vicky Ford calling it an "unacceptable betrayal of the Sudanese people."

The UN's Special Representative for Sudan Volker Perthes said "the reported detentions of the Prime Minister, government officials, and politicians are unacceptable," and asked all parties to "exercise utmost restraint" and called for them to "return to dialogue" in order to "restore the constitutional order."

This story was first published on CNN.com, "Sudan's military dissolves transitional government in coup."
For most of the time Pam Valdez was in the hospital with COVID-19, friends and family gathered outside each night, praying for the Grand Island woman.

Valdezs niece, Jenny Champion, prayed outside Grand Island Regional Medical Center 26 straight nights. For 24 of those nights, she was joined by her husband, Eddy.

Valdez, 51, drove herself to the hospital on Saturday, Sept. 18, with serious problems breathing. She had tested positive for COVID two days earlier.

She was intubated on Monday, Sept. 20.

When we knew it was getting serious with Pam, when the intubation happened, thats when I knew prayer needed to start, Jenny said.

The prayer group began Sept. 24, six days after Valdez went into the hospital. The supporters gathered in the hospital parking lot.

She was out there, every single night at 8 oclock, Eddy said.

The first night, the group totaled 17 people. From then on, the average was two to five people.

On the 15th day she was in the hospital, doctors performed a tracheotomy on Valdez. She was intubated for three weeks.

Jenny felt helpless because she was unable to help her aunt.

But then a friend suggested the prayer effort.

Jenny could have just prayed from home. But I think that God calls us to step out and do the work  not just sit comfortable at home and do it, she said.

On the fourth floor of the hospital, Valdez couldnt see the prayer warriors outside.

Were hoping she felt us, Eddy said.

The group members read Scripture, prayed together and listened to worship music. They would then separately walk the ground and just worship and pray, Jenny said.

Valdez was discharged this past Monday  a month and a day after she entered the hospital. She has beaten COVID and is now undergoing rehab at Madonna in Lincoln.

The Champions both believe the prayers helped Valdez. Without a doubt, Jenny said.

It's a story, Eddy says, of Gods grace.

God changes everything, Jenny said.

The people outside werent the only ones praying. Jenny spread the word on Facebook. Eighty-eight people signed up for a page called Praying for Pam.

But others joined in. People prayed in other states, other towns  everywhere, Jenny said.

Valdezs daughter, Grace, feels that the prayer benefited her mother a lot.

Grace, 14, says her mother is outgoing, funny and very caring. She always puts people before herself, she said.

The Champions 11-year-old son, Malykai, says Valdez is nice and has a huge heart. Shes pretty sweet, too.

When the Champions were finally able to speak to Valdez in person, they told her how much theyd missed her, how much they loved her and how much she was covered in prayer.

They told her how proud of her we were, Eddy said.

They informed Valdez that shes a miracle right now, and that weve got a ways to go, but were going to get there, Jenny said.

Standing outside the hospital, the group prayed not just for Valdez, but for other people battling COVID, as well as doctors, nurses and staff members.

This thing has been horrible, and we wanted to cover anybody we could in prayer, Eddy said. They also prayed for all those who were sick.

Valdez and members of the Champion family attend New Life Community Church. She has a very strong faith, Jenny said of Valdez.

Jenny said its been awesome to see Gods work.

I like to use the word radical. Its a radical miracle, Jenny said.

As Valdez left the hospital Monday, staff members celebrated her recovery and sent her off to Lincoln with their good wishes.

Family members hope Valdez will be back in Grand Island in December.

Valdezs story will be her testimony, which she will spread to others, Eddy said. Shell tell people that God brought me back. God put me back here, he said.

And with her testimony, shes going to be able to draw more people to God and build peoples faith up.
The Columbus Public Schools is looking to hire staff in part to help support its ever-expanding district.

Last week, the Columbus Public Schools Board of Education took a step towards addressing the district's growth by approving the hire of a third Student Information System (SIS) specialist. The district will use the specialist to ensure functionality to support classrooms, administration and student records, said CPS Director of Finance and Human Resources Chip Kay on Monday.

We obviously rely on accurate student information to make decisions about staffing and whats being uploaded to the state for funding, said Kay. That is what is also relayed to parents as far as the performance of their child.

SIS is a software that can collect data like a students grades and classes, Kay said. Currently the two SIS department employees are not enough to support the district, which has over 650 staff members and 4,000 students, he added.

As the data needs have grown for the district, weve kind of grown to need another person in that position to coordinate and work with the buildings, Kay said.

CPS Board President Doug Molczyk said the board members believed it was best to hire another SIS worker because the school district wont stop growing anytime soon.

We felt like having a worker in that system could better serve the needs of the teachers and parents, Molczyk said.  When you have a student body that is quite as large as ours, you have to have the staff to effectively teach those individuals and support them in their endeavors.

The SIS specialist will be tasked with helping configure the school's system to ensure its easier for students, staff and parents to access, troubleshooting problems that may interfere with daily operations of CPS, providing training to new and existing staff, giving support for state reporting and carrying out the vision and mission of the district, Kay said.

Additionally, the new worker will have day-to-day functions like problem-solving with teachers and staff, helping with reports for staff and educators, configuring CPS SIS, completing state reports and managing student data.

The incoming SIS specialist will essentially be a mix between system analyst and registrar, Kay said. CPS currently has a person that covers each field but the new worker will help cover both the roles, he added.

The thing that has really changed is the amount of communication that we need between the buildings with student reporting and the increased amount of data the state is drawing from schools, Kay said. Having accurate data and having students enrolled properly and coordinating how we are performing have all been a growing part of the district.

Kay said though the job position is now advertised, he believes the new staff will start sometime next summer.

Andrew Kiser is a reporter for The Columbus Telegram. Reach him via email at andrew.kiser@lee.net.

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Today I want to celebrate or preview three exciting examples of Active Hope being put to work in our region through the Nebraska Community Foundation network.

Put simply, Boone County and the Boone County Foundation Fund are working hard and awesomeness is happening around the county as a result. They get to celebrate a tremendous milestone early next month!

The Boone County Foundation Fund hopes you can be with them for the grand opening celebration of Boone Beginnings early childhood education center Nov. 7 in Albion. Boone Beginnings is a monumental achievement for a community of any size, and really quite extraordinary for Boone County. It is a fantastic example of the magnitude of assets available in rural Nebraska!

On Nov. 7, you are invited for a tour of the Boone Beginnings Center at 2 p.m. At 2:30 p.m., they will have the official dedication and reveal of the Donor Recognition Wall. Following the brief ceremony, you are invited to a reception in the Boone Beginnings Multi-Purpose Room.

I guarantee if you come, youll walk away inspired!

The next two items arent quite as concrete so Im going to provide more of a sneak peek of goodness coming to Columbus and Butler County.

In the days to come, youll see information from the Columbus Area Future Fund about a new effort to encourage Columbus to be an even more welcoming community. Building on past success in welcoming a more diverse population to their place, this effort is going to raise the bar and put CAFFs money where their mouth is in welcoming new residents to the Columbus area.

It seems eminently clear that more talented, hard-working people are needed in the Columbus region. The last number I heard from the Columbus Area Chamber was 1,400 open jobs. 1,400! That number is impacting not just employers, but really everyone in the community. As such, Im really grateful and excited that CAFF recognized the opportunity and has spent several months planning for a unique effort to try to help.

Again, not everything is set but I will encourage you to start thinking about how you, your family, your friends, and organizations you belong to would make Columbus a more welcoming place if you had some dollars to use.

Finally, Ill close for today with more inspiration from Butler County. This is building on the amazing success story from the Butler County Area Foundation Fund successfully raising more than the required $200,000 for their unrestricted endowment to receive a $100,000 matching challenge from the Sherwood Foundation. As that has significantly grown their grantmaking capacity in Butler County (and will continue to do so), the local committee has been intentional about thinking strategically about how to impact the future of Butler County through these gifts.

Through that strategic approach, BCAFF has landed on an investment that builds on a Butler County asset to help make a truly significant step forward in their place. It is truly inspiring to see these volunteers dream bigger about what they can do and the change they can support in Butler County!

Put simply, BCAFF is thinking big! This new investment will build on a strong legacy for the Fund as they mark their 40th year of existence and have already invested nearly $1 million back into in Butler County. Watch for this exciting news coming soon!

Just three more examples today of how local volunteers are using the power and flexibility of charitable dollars to create change in their hometowns that would otherwise not occur. Its why Im grateful to be part of the NCF network that is the platform from which these dreams launch!

K.C. Belitz is the chief operating officer of the Nebraska Community Foundation.

K.C. Belitz is the chief operating officer of the Nebraska Community Foundation.

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According to a press release, Columbus police had been investigating a matter in which Dustin S. Henggeler, 22, a convicted felon, was allegedly trying to sell a handgun.

On Oct. 22 at the Off Campus convenience store, 3208 42nd St. in Columbus, Henggeler was charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. A 17-year-old man was charged with possession of a firearm by a minor and carrying a concealed weapon. CPD recovered a second firearm from the vehicle that had been reported as stolen, according to the press release.
WASHINGTON  The U.S. House passed bipartisan legislation by voice vote Monday evening that would posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to the 13 American service members killed in the August suicide bomb attack in Kabul.

The measure has 323 co-sponsors in the House.

McClain said in an interview that seeing the bill on its way to adoption is "bittersweet," but she's grateful the House is taking it up so swiftly.

"We wanted to do something to honor the fallen men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice  something to keep their memory alive," McClain said. "With all the ugliness sometimes that goes on in politics, I just thought this would be a positive thing to do."

McClain said she hopes the measure quickly passes the Senate on a unanimous basis and that President Joe Biden will sign it.

Her bill notes that Aug. 26 was the highest single-day death toll of the war in Afghanistan for the United States in more than a decade.

In total, the attack by the Islamic State affiliate ISIS-K at the gates of Hamid Karzai International Airport killed as many as 200 people and wounded hundreds of others, including 13 American troops.

More than 5,000 U.S. troops were deployed to help with the evacuation of more than 100,000 people after the Taliban swiftly took control of Afghanistan in August amid the U.S. military's withdraw.

McClain said she's met with some of the fallen service members' parents and families.

"It makes them feel good, for lack of better words. It's a nice way to honor them," she said. "Quite honestly, it's hard. It's still fresh in their hearts. To know their memory and legacy will live on, they're extremely grateful to know that their loved ones didn't pass in vain, and that they're appreciated.

"In a time when there's so much partisanship, it really makes you feel good to know that not everything is partisan," she added.

The day before the attack, the U.S. State Department had warned of a "credible" threat at the Kabul airport, urging people to leave the area. Those gathered at the gates were hoping to make one of the last evacuation flights out of the country.

"The American service members went above and beyond the call of duty to protect citizens of the United States and our allies to ensure they are brought to safety in an extremely dangerous situation as the Taliban regained control over Afghanistan," the bill says.

"The American service members exemplified extreme bravery and valor against armed enemy combatants. The American service members dedicated their lives and their heroism deserves great honor."

McClain's measure also names each of the 13 dead, which included 11 Marines, one soldier and one sailor:

* Navy Corpsman Maxton Soviak, 22, of Berlin Heights, Ohio

* Lance Cpl. Kareem Nikoui, 20, of Norco, California

* Lance Cpl. David Espinoza, 20, of Rio Bravo, Texas

* Lance Cpl. Rylee McCollum, 20, Jackson, Wyoming

* Lance Cpl. Jared Schmitz, 20, of Wentzville, Missouri

* Cpl. Hunter Lopez, 22, of Indio, California

* Staff Sgt. Darin Taylor Hoover, 31, of Salt Lake City, Utah

* Cpl. Daegan William-Tyeler Page, 23, of Omaha

* Sgt. Nicole Gee, 23, of Roseville, California

* Cpl. Humberto Sanchez, 22, Logansport, Indiana

* Lance Cpl. Dylan Merola, 20, of Rancho Cucamonga, California

* Sgt. Johanny Rosario Pichardo, 25, Lawrence, Massachusetts

* Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss, 23, of Corryton, Tennessee

They were the first U.S. service members killed in Afghanistan since February 2020.

Biden announced his decision in April to pull all U.S. troops out of Afghanistan and end the "forever war" that was launched after the Sept. 11 terror attacks by al-Qaida in 2001.

Biden said he wanted to see no more U.S. troops sacrifice themselves for a war that he no longer believed to be in the best interest of the United States or its allies.

If McClain's measure is enacted, the gold medal would be given to the Smithsonian Institution for display, with the intent that it would be displayed outside of Washington at times in locations associated with the 13 service members killed Aug. 26, according to the text.

U.S. Sens. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, and Steve Daines, R-Montana, introduced a Senate companion to the bill in September.

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After a year away from in-person racing, the notes helped him remember all the details that make the race a success  race bibs, porta potties, marketing materials, sponsors and more.

Were happy to come back live, he said.

Registration for the race is underway at carlislefamilyymca.org with a deadline coming up this weekend. Prices increase after 11:45 p.m. Oct. 31 and some race registration options will no longer be offered.

Details are still being worked out about where the crowd will gather prior to the start of the race due to the renovation and construction project at the YMCA, but Cattron said the start/finish line will be at the same location and the race will follow the traditional route.

As of Monday, registrations for the event were only about 30 shy of where race registrations stood on the same date for the last live event in 2019.

Were right on target, Cattron said. We fully expect that this week thats when a large majority of our registrations come in.

Last year, the YMCA held a virtual race due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Cattron said they had no idea what to expect, but it turned out that people wanted to support the organization so many made additional donations on top of their race registration fees. Cattron said it was the highest year for such donations in the years that theyve given registrants that option.

The virtual race will again be an option for those who may not be in the area or who are not comfortable being in a crowd yet.

You just have to do whats best for you and your family. Its your choice on how you would prefer to support the YMCA, Cattron said. Were happy for all of those folks that decide to support us in whatever way works best for them.

The Y also brought back a piece of last years virtual event for all participants. Anyone registering for the live event or the virtual event can go to a special website to order additional race swag including items such as knit hats, running hats, short sleeved shirts, sweat shirts and yoga pants.

Those who register before Nov. 1 and purchase additional items will receive their items at their homes before race day. To have items by Christmas, orders would need to be made by Dec. 1.

Cattron said he looks forward to the energy and community the race creates, even though he doesnt get to see much of it as hes busy troubleshooting problems and leading the volunteers who are setting things up, tearing things down and moving things about. If hes lucky, he might see about a minute of the race at the start.

But, Cattron said, its his favorite part of the race. Announcements are made, the disc jockey plays YMCA and theres 3,100 people standing on South West Street. Theyre neighbors, friends and families with little kids in strollers. Some are in costume and some arent.

Seeing everybodys enjoyment and fun regardless if theyre here for first place, or just to get the family out, or just to start a new tradition, or just to continue an old tradition that theyre coming back to  thats my favorite part of this, watching all the folks reconnect, he said.

It takes upwards of 100 people to pull off the race, Cattron said, and there are two areas in which people can volunteer. One is helping with packet pick-up on the Tuesday and Wednesday before the race when participants come by the YMCA to pick up their shirts, race bibs and other items. Those interested in helping in that area can contact Tara Young at the YMCA.

Volunteers also help on the day of the race at stations throughout the course to give direction and encouragement to runners while watching out for the safety of the participants. Those interested in that role can contact Justin Rose at the YMCA.

It would never be able to be done without the rest of the Y staff that are also volunteering, giving up their Thanksgiving to help us put this on, Cattron said.

Email Tammie at tgitt@cumberlink.com. Follow her on Twitter @TammieGitt.

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Information is from police reports and may be incomplete depending on the status of an investigation. Phone numbers are nonemergency.
The state Department of Health reported 51 cases of COVID-19 and one death for Cumberland County Tuesday.

The county has reported 45 deaths in October, the highest total since 113 in January. The county reported 21 COVID-related deaths in September.

The number of patients hospitalized with COVID-19 increased to 101 in Tuesday's report, up one from Monday. There are 26 adults in intensive care (up five from Monday) and 19 on ventilators (up two from Monday). Nine adult ICU beds remain open of the 114 currently staffed across the county, and 32 of 95 ventilators in the county are in use.

Tuesday's report included 151 test results, with 22 probable cases. Comparing just the number of negative tests (100) and confirmed positive tests (29), the county saw 22.5% of its tests come back positive.

The southcentral region reported 590 cases and 13 new deaths Tuesday, with 139 cases in York County, 97 cases in Dauphin County and 84 cases in Franklin County.

Franklin County reports 63 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 Tuesday (down one from Monday), with two of 30 currently staffed ICU beds available in the county and 13 of 35 available ventilators in use. There are eight adults in intensive care and seven on ventilators.

Dauphin County reports 108 patients hospitalized with COVID-19 Tuesday (up one from Monday), with 35 of 198 currently staffed ICU beds available in the county and 75 of 177 available ventilators in use. There are 33 adults in intensive care and 18 on ventilators.

School-age children

In its weekly update for the eighth week of the school year, the department reported another 118 cases among children aged 5-18 in Cumberland County during the week of Oct. 13-19, the same number of cases as was reported last week. That brings the total number of cases in Cumberland County for this school year to 1,189.

Statewide, the number of cases among 5- to 18-year-olds decreased for the fourth week in a row with 5,877 cases reported. The state said the total number of cases in that age group for the school year is 54,503.

Early Warning Dashboard

Cumberland County saw a decrease in its in percent positivity and its incidence rate per 100,000 people in the Health Department's weekly update to its Early Warning Monitoring System Dashboard Friday. Its percent positivity decreased to 11.1% for the week of Oct. 15-21, down from 11.8% the previous week. The incidence rate per 100,000 people decreased to 158.3, down from 213.1 the previous week.

Philadelphia County, which includes the city of Philadelphia, had the second lowest percent positivity in the state for the week of Oct. 15-21 at 4.5% and the lowest incidence rate per 100,000 people at 89.5.

Forest County has the lowest percent positivity for the week at 3.1%.

Penn State Health update (Oct. 25)

Penn State Health lists a COVID-19 dashboard on its website tracking cases at each of its acute care hospitals  Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center, Hampden Medical Center and Penn State Health St. Joseph Medical Center. The dashboard will be updated every Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

Monday's update shows 102 total cases (99 adults, 3 pediatrics) in the health system's four hospitals  20 are fully vaccinated (19.6%) with no one in an ICU and no one on a ventilator, 72 are nonvaccinated (70.6%) with 27 adults in an ICU and 13 adults on a ventilator, and 10 are unknown status patients. All three children hospitalized are unvaccinated, with one in an ICU and one on a ventilator.

Holy Spirit Medical Center in Camp Hill has 19 COVID patients. Seven are fully vaccinated adults (no one in ICU and no one on a ventilator) and 12 unvaccinated adults (three in an ICU and two on a ventilator).

Hampden Medical Center has seven COVID patients. Five are not fully vaccinated (two in an ICU, two on a ventilator) and two are fully vaccinated.

Vaccinations

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention labels Cumberland County as having "high" transmission of the virus  the highest level, which is the transmission level for every county in the state. Community transmission is determined by the number of new cases per 100,000 people in the last seven days and the positivity rate over the last seven days, so the classification could vary from day to day based on those numbers.

In data updated Monday evening, the CDC says Cumberland County has seen 62.3% of its total population of 253,370 become fully vaccinated. For the county's vaccine eligible population of people ages 12 and older, 71.8% have been fully vaccinated.

County numbers in the southcentral region (for Oct. 26):

Adams County (pop. 103,009): 29 new cases; 13,165 total cases (10,789 confirmed, 2,376 probable); 43,925 negatives; 219 deaths; 49.7% of county population vaccinated

29 new cases; 13,165 total cases (10,789 confirmed, 2,376 probable); 43,925 negatives; 219 deaths; 49.7% of county population vaccinated Bedford County (pop. 47,888): 17 new cases; 6,725 total cases (4,567 confirmed, 2,158 probable); 12,385 negatives; 169 deaths; 34.5% of county population vaccinated

17 new cases; 6,725 total cases (4,567 confirmed, 2,158 probable); 12,385 negatives; 169 deaths; 34.5% of county population vaccinated Blair County (pop. 121,829): 71 new cases; 17,231 total cases (13,597 confirmed, 3,634 probable); 46,943 negatives; 379 deaths; 46% of county population vaccinated

71 new cases; 17,231 total cases (13,597 confirmed, 3,634 probable); 46,943 negatives; 379 deaths; 46% of county population vaccinated Cumberland County (pop. 253,370): 51 new cases; 27,961 total cases (21,890 confirmed, 6,071 probable); 101,077 negatives; 612 deaths (+1); 62.3% of county population vaccinated

51 new cases; 27,961 total cases (21,890 confirmed, 6,071 probable); 101,077 negatives; 612 deaths (+1); 62.3% of county population vaccinated Dauphin County (pop. 278,299): 97 new cases; 34,571 total cases (29,681 confirmed, 4,890 probable); 127,522 negatives; 639 deaths (+3); 58.2% of county population vaccinated

97 new cases; 34,571 total cases (29,681 confirmed, 4,890 probable); 127,522 negatives; 639 deaths (+3); 58.2% of county population vaccinated Franklin County (pop. 155,027): 84 new cases; 21,623 total cases (17,676 confirmed, 3,947 probable); 64,131 negatives; 451 deaths (+1); 45.2% of county population vaccinated

84 new cases; 21,623 total cases (17,676 confirmed, 3,947 probable); 64,131 negatives; 451 deaths (+1); 45.2% of county population vaccinated Fulton County (pop. 14,530): 13 new cases; 2,223 total cases (1,105 confirmed, 1,118 probable); 4,973 negatives; 29 deaths (+1); 30.7% of county population vaccinated

13 new cases; 2,223 total cases (1,105 confirmed, 1,118 probable); 4,973 negatives; 29 deaths (+1); 30.7% of county population vaccinated Huntingdon County (pop. 45,144): 15 new cases; 6,787 total cases (5,595 confirmed, 1,192 probable); 20,467 negatives; 156 deaths; 46.4% of county population vaccinated

15 new cases; 6,787 total cases (5,595 confirmed, 1,192 probable); 20,467 negatives; 156 deaths; 46.4% of county population vaccinated Juniata County (pop. 24,763): 8 new cases; 2,862 total cases (2,602 confirmed, 260 probable); 6,601 negatives; 115 deaths; 39.7% of county population vaccinated

8 new cases; 2,862 total cases (2,602 confirmed, 260 probable); 6,601 negatives; 115 deaths; 39.7% of county population vaccinated Lebanon County (pop. 141,793): 45 new cases; 20,469 total cases (17,505 confirmed, 2,964 probable); 62,743 negatives; 327 deaths; 50.4% of county population vaccinated

45 new cases; 20,469 total cases (17,505 confirmed, 2,964 probable); 62,743 negatives; 327 deaths; 50.4% of county population vaccinated Mifflin County (pop. 46,138): 11 new cases; 7,183 total cases (6,790 confirmed, 393 probable); 17,492 negatives; 195 deaths (+3); 48.5% of county population vaccinated

11 new cases; 7,183 total cases (6,790 confirmed, 393 probable); 17,492 negatives; 195 deaths (+3); 48.5% of county population vaccinated Perry County (pop. 46,272): 10 new cases; 5,256 total cases (4,057 confirmed, 1,199 probable); 13,155 negatives; 120 deaths (+1); 46.6% of county population vaccinated

10 new cases; 5,256 total cases (4,057 confirmed, 1,199 probable); 13,155 negatives; 120 deaths (+1); 46.6% of county population vaccinated York County (pop. 449,058): 139 new cases; 61,846 total cases (50,378 confirmed; 11,468 probable); 193,194 negatives; 957 deaths (+3); 54.8% of county population vaccinated

ZIP code-level counts (updated Oct. 26):

17013: 3,354 positives, 15,617 negatives - +15 since Oct. 22

17015: 2,012 positives, 7,641 negatives - +14 since Oct. 22

17050: 3,188 positives, 15,962 negatives - +22 since Oct. 22

17055: 3,576 positives, 18,168 negatives - +32 since Oct. 22

17011: 3,307 positives, 15,209 negatives - +26 since Oct. 22

17007: 480 positives, 1,946 negatives - +3 since Oct. 22

17065: 345 positives, 1,351 negatives - +2 since Oct. 22

17324: 383 positives, 1,404 negatives - +6 since Oct. 22

17241: 901 positives, 3,419 negatives - +7 since Oct. 22

17257: 2,314 positives, 7,705 negatives - +16 since Oct. 22

17240: 218 positives, 690 negatives - +2 since Oct. 22

17025: 1,533 positives, 6,159 negatives - +22 since Oct. 22

17070: 1,420 positives, 5,866 negatives - +11 since Oct. 22

17043: 488 positives, 2,226 negatives - +4 since Oct. 22

17019: 1,677 positives, 5,997 negatives - +24 since Oct. 22

17266: 28 positives, 136 negatives - +1 since Oct. 22

School district and college case counts (updated Oct. 22)

The Sentinel's case counts for Cumberland County school districts and colleges or universities are updated Fridays. The policy for each school districts reporting is noted in the list below.

Big Spring School District (reports active cases in past 14 days with school exposure): 14 student cases and 5 staff cases as of the sites last update on Oct. 20.

(reports active cases in past 14 days with school exposure): 14 student cases and 5 staff cases as of the sites last update on Oct. 20. Carlisle Area School District (reports cases as they occur and updates a chart): 13 new cases since Oct. 14; 154 cases this school year (started Aug. 25) according to the charts last update on Oct. 18.

(reports cases as they occur and updates a chart): 13 new cases since Oct. 14; 154 cases this school year (started Aug. 25) according to the charts last update on Oct. 18. Camp Hill School District (posts chart that includes total case count): 7 student cases and no new staff cases since Oct. 18; 61 student cases and 7 staff cases this school year (started Aug. 25.)

(posts chart that includes total case count): 7 student cases and no new staff cases since Oct. 18; 61 student cases and 7 staff cases this school year (started Aug. 25.) Cumberland Valley School District (reports weekly and total number of cases with school exposure): 13 cases since Oct. 18; 180 cases this school year (started Aug. 31.)

(reports weekly and total number of cases with school exposure): 13 cases since Oct. 18; 180 cases this school year (started Aug. 31.) Mechanicsburg Area School District (chart lists total cases actively being monitored, updated Tuesday and Friday): 13 positive and presumed positive cases being monitored as of Oct. 22.

(chart lists total cases actively being monitored, updated Tuesday and Friday): 13 positive and presumed positive cases being monitored as of Oct. 22. Shippensburg Area School District (reports weekly and total confirmed case counts involving school exposure): 6 new cases since Oct. 18; 145 cases this school year (started Aug. 19.)

(reports weekly and total confirmed case counts involving school exposure): 6 new cases since Oct. 18; 145 cases this school year (started Aug. 19.) South Middleton School District (posts notices as cases occur, updates table of case counts weekly on Fridays): 68 cases this school year (started Aug. 25) as of the charts last update on Oct. 15.

(posts notices as cases occur, updates table of case counts weekly on Fridays): 68 cases this school year (started Aug. 25) as of the charts last update on Oct. 15. West Shore School District (reports active cases with school exposure within past 14 days): 35 student cases and 5 staff cases as of Oct. 22.

(reports active cases with school exposure within past 14 days): 35 student cases and 5 staff cases as of Oct. 22. Dickinson College : 3 student cases and 1 employee cases since Oct. 18; 32 student cases and 23 employee cases this semester (started Aug. 30.)

: 3 student cases and 1 employee cases since Oct. 18; 32 student cases and 23 employee cases this semester (started Aug. 30.) Messiah University : 4 new student cases and 1 new staff case since Oct. 18; 50 student cases and 17 employee cases this semester (started Aug. 7.)

: 4 new student cases and 1 new staff case since Oct. 18; 50 student cases and 17 employee cases this semester (started Aug. 7.) Shippensburg University: 6 new student cases and 1 new staff case since Oct. 18; 150 student cases and 17 employee cases this semester (started Aug. 1.)

(Counties with a percent positivity above 5% in a week go on the Department of Health's watch list)

Pennsylvania: Percent Positivity - 9.4% last 7 days (9.7% previous 7 days) Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 173.4 (202.6 previous 7 days)

Adams County: Percent Positivity - 15.8% last 7 days (16.6% previous 7 days) Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 241.7 (220.4 previous 7 days)

Cumberland County: Percent Positivity - 11.1% last 7 days (11.8% previous 7 days) Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 158.3 (213.1 previous 7 days)

Dauphin County: Percent Positivity - 12.7% last 7 days (12.8% previous 7 days) Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 204.5 (226.7 previous 7 days)

Franklin County: Percent Positivity - 12.4% last 7 days (14.1% previous 7 days) Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 162.6 (176.7 previous 7 days)

Lebanon County: Percent Positivity - 13.1% last 7 days (14.4% previous 7 days) Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 200.3 (249.7 previous 7 days)

Perry County: Percent Positivity - 15.8% last 7 days (20.0% previous 7 days) Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 175.1 (237.7 previous 7 days)

York County:

Percent Positivity - 14.7% last 7 days (16.5% previous 7 days)

last 7 days (16.5% previous 7 days)

Incidence Rate per 100,000 people last 7 days - 247.4 (289.5 previous 7 days)
This has been a long process with many twists, turns and compromises, but in the end, we hope it will serve as an example of how community and government can come together for the sake of preserving what is important, our history, said project organizer Janice Lynx, executive director of the West Shore Historical Society.

The single-lane 1887 truss bridge that spans 114 feet over Yellow Breeches Creek between Lower Allen Township and Fairview Township in York County was closed by the state Department of Transportation in early 2020 due to structural deterioration.

Initially, the community landmark faced possible demotion until Lynx, who lives near the bridge in Fairview Township, founded the Friends of Sheepford Road Bridge group in 2019. The grassroots effort to save and preserve the structure has since transformed into a committee of the West Shore Historical Society Committee.

Last month, York County commissioners authorized the York County Planning Commission and HRG engineers to work with the Cumberland County Planning Department and the West Shore Historic Society to submit a final grant application for $1.3 million to PennDOTs 2021 Transportation Alternative Set-aside, or TASA program, for rehabilitation of the bridge.

Cumberland County commissioners authorized a similar action at their September board meeting, said Kirk Stoner, director of the Cumberland County Planning Department. Both counties agreed to the move after authorizing engineers to evaluate the bridges condition in July.

The state grant application was submitted by York County on behalf of all parties on Oct. 13.

We look at everything for this as both counties. Weve worked together jointly and very closely with Cumberland County. We also give applause to the West Shore Historical Society, as were working very closely with them, also, said Heather Bitner, senior transportation planner at York County Planning Commission.

Project construction is estimated to take around a year to complete, but a definitive start date is pending notification of state TASA funds early next year.

The TASA program provides funding for projects and activities defined as transportation alternatives, according to PennDOTs website. This definition includes on- and off-road pedestrian and bicycle facilities, infrastructure projects for improving nondriver access to public transportation and enhanced mobility, community improvement activities, environmental mitigation, trails purposed for transportation, and safe routes to school projects.

Stoner said local planners have rejected restoring Sheepford Road Bridge to accommodate motor vehicles due to prohibitive estimated costs and low traffic volumes. Instead, the structure is slated to reopen to foot and bicycle traffic only.

Todays heavy vehicles arent comparable to the weight of the type vehicles that were used when the bridge originally was built (in 1887), Bitner said.

The metal truss Sheepford Road Bridge was fabricated 134 years ago by the Phoenix Bridge Co. of Phoenixville and erected onsite by company agents Dean & Westbrook. Its existing Phoenix column, patented by the bridge company in 1861, further increases the local landmarks historical significance, project organizers said. The Eiffel Tower was built using Phoenix columns in 1889 after its architect spotted the multiple-welded design in Philadelphia.

In October 2020, commissioner boards representing each of the two counties approved a motion allowing the group until October 2022 to find a new owner for the bridge and raise funds needed for restoration before permanent closure and possible demolition. The bridge is owned by Cumberland and York counties with plans to transfer ownership to West Shore Historical Society once the restoration project is completed.

In June 2021, the bridge was placed on Cumberland Countys Register of Historic Places, with a commemorative plaque placed on its Upper Allen side.

Friends of the Sheepford Road Bridge has worked for over two years to bring public awareness to the potential loss of the historic Sheepford Road Bridge. We are very pleased that York and Cumberland county commissioners have recognized the importance of this rare Phoenix column bridge as a link to our past, an important part of our community, and have submitted an application for PennDOT TASA funding to preserve the bridge for pedestrian use, Lynx said this week.

Donations can be made online through the West Shore Historical Societys website, https://westshorehistoricalsociety.org. The organization is collecting funds for the bridges long-term maintenance and insurance, as well as its ongoing operations.

In a related item, the Cumberland County Historical Society is presenting Friends of Sheepford Road Bridge with its 2021 William Foshag Preservation Award at the Historical Societys annual dinner Tuesday night.

Cumberland County Historical Society is excited to chose the Friends of the Sheepford Road Bridge for our William Foshag Award. Janice (Lynx) and the Friends of the Sheepford Road Bridge have had amazing momentum with their project and can show others working on preservation projects what hard work and dedication can do, Cumberland County Historical Society Director Tristan Milazzo said this week.

Foshag was an area resident interested in historic preservation whose estate included a monetary gift to Cumberland County Historical Society. Funds are used for the annual Foshag Award, preservation initiatives and workshops in the county, Milazzo said.

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The American Red Cross is warning that there continues to be a blood shortage, with the blood supply currently at the lowest level in more than a decade.

With Thanksgiving and the holidays approaching  which the Red Cross notes is a difficult season for blood donations  it is urging donors to make and keep appointments to help overcome the emergency blood and platelet shortage that is affecting the nations blood supply.

The Red Cross said that since declaring an emergency need last month, thousands of people have donated blood, but hospital demands have remained strong. At least 10,000 more donations are needed each week in the coming weeks to meet patient needs, according to the Red Cross.

In honor of the new series I Know What You Did Last Summer, the Red Cross is offering those who donate blood from Nov. 1 to Nov. 12 an entry into a contest to win a trip for two to Hawaii, courtesy of Amazon Prime Video. The trip will transport the winner and guest to where the series was filmed and includes round-trip airfare for two, hotel accommodations for nine nights, meals, $1,000 gift card for expenses and on-trip transportation with tour stops from Honolulu to Maui.

In addition, those who donate from Nov. 1 to Nov. 23 will receive a $10 Amazon.com gift card by email.

Donors can schedule an appointment by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-733-2767.

There will also be local opportunities to donate blood through blood drives. Here is a look at the blood drives in Cumberland and Perry counties:

1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Nov. 2 at American Legion Post #264, 400 Union St., Liverpool

12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 4 at Courtyard by Marriott Harrisburg West/Mechanicsburg, 4921 Gettysburg Road, Mechanicsburg

9 a.m. to 2 p.m. First Evangelical Lutheran Church, 21 S. Bedford St., Carlisle

10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 19 at Dickinson Colleges Holland Union Building, 28 N. College St., Carlisle

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WASHINGTON (AP)  The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol deferred its requests for several dozen pages of records from former President Donald Trump's administration at the White House's urging, but President Joe Biden again rejected the former president's invocation of executive privilege on hundreds of additional pages.

In a letter to the National Archives and Records Administration, Biden counsel Dana Remus repeated that the president has determined that an assertion of executive privilege is not in the best interests of the United States, and therefore is not justified for two tranches of documents sent to the White House for review last month.

The panel is investigating the violent Capitol siege by Trump's supporters that day and has sought documents connected to the former president, who has falsely said he won the presidential election and that morning urged his crowd of followers to fight like hell."

Obtained Monday by The Associated Press, the letter from Remus reveals that the committee deferred its request for nearly 50 pages of documents as a result of an accommodation process with the Biden White House. That process allows the White House to protect some records that may be privileged without formally blocking their release.

The letter from Remus came two weeks after the White House said it would not block an earlier, more sweeping tranche of documents after Trump sought to shield them. Biden has made clear that he does not want to block the committee's work, and Remus wrote in both letters that the documents could shed light on events within the White House on and about January 6 and bear on the Select Committees need to understand the facts underlying the most serious attack on the operations of the Federal Government since the Civil War.

Still, the White House's desire to shield some documents shows that the process of approving releases to the Jan. 6 committee won't always be simple, as presidents have long relied on their ability to assert executive privilege to protect their internal communications and deliberations. Biden's decisions to release certain documents could set precedents for future administrations and could eventually apply to his own records when he is out of office.

In a statement, a spokesman for the Jan. 6 panel said that lawmakers welcomed Biden's decision to allow the production of the two additional sets of records and that the committee had agreed to defer action on certain records.

The Select Committee has not withdrawn its request for those records and will continue to engage with the executive branch to ensure we get access to all the information relevant to our probe, said spokesman Tim Mulvey.

Even though Biden has approved the release of most of the documents, their ultimate fate will now be decided by the courts. Trump filed suit earlier this month to try to block the archives from releasing his records.

In the lawsuit, Trump called the document requests a vexatious, illegal fishing expedition that was untethered from any legitimate legislative purpose, according to the papers filed in federal court in the District of Columbia.

The former president's lawyer has also sought to block testimony from some of his former aides, including longtime ally Steve Bannon. The House voted to hold Bannon in contempt last week after he defied the panel's subpoena and his lawyer said that Trump would assert privilege over his testimony.

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

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Democratic Sen. Byron P. Harrison of Mississippi called the remarks "unfortunate in the extreme." Sen. Thomas E. Watson of Georgia wondered why it was necessary for the speaker to travel to the South "to lecture their people." Today's historians regard the address as surprising. And even a cursory examination of the speech  its comments much commented upon when they were delivered, much ignored by its audience and then much forgotten over the century that followed  will prompt a reevaluation by modern Americans of a much-maligned president.

This week marks the 100th anniversary of one of the most remarkable speeches given by one of the most discredited presidents, a stemwinder by the redoubtable Warren G. Harding that was delivered in the Deep South and that chastised the region's residents for their racial views. But with little provocation for it, and surely no reward for it, the 28th president urged his listeners in Birmingham, Alabama, to change their ways and to heed his words "whether you like it or not."

There are few examples of an American president taking his listeners to task  criticizing them in uncompromising language  for so fundamental and deeply held views as Harding did when he told a gathering in a segregated parkland audience of 100,000 that their traditions were unsustainable, their practices unacceptable and their attitudes un-American. And yet that is what a president ranked eighth from the bottom in this year's historians' assessments of American chief executives did  and he did it amid Birmingham's pride-filled celebration of its 50th anniversary.

"I can say to you people of the South, both white and Black, that the time has passed when you are entitled to assume that the problem of races is peculiarly and particularly your problem," he said, adding, "It is the problem of democracy everywhere, if we mean the things we say about democracy as the ideal political state. Whether you like it or not, our democracy is a lie unless you stand for that equality."

Whites in the audience were horrified. Blacks were exultant.

The speech was given in a onetime Confederate state the Republican president lost in the 1920 election by a landslide margin greater than 2-to-1. The remarks came four days after Harding condemned lynching at a time when NAACP reports said that two Blacks a week were being killed in the signature method of the time. They came five months after a mob rampage 650 miles away in Tulsa, Oklahoma  also largely forgotten in history until recent days  left as many as 300 Blacks dead and 35 square blocks of a prosperous Black neighborhood in ruins.

"The Birmingham speech put the question of race on the nation's table a lot sooner than people realize," said Sherry Hall, manager of the Harding Presidential Site in Marion, Ohio.

"He went to Birmingham to congratulate it on its 50 years of existence and to say it was the face of the new South, but he had some other things on his mind that shocked a lot of people."

There were, to be sure, several cringeworthy passages in the president's address, reflecting adamantine and paternal racial views of the time, especially in expressions of skepticism of "racial amalgamation" and his assertion that his views were "not a question of social equality." He also referred to "natural segregations, without narrowing any rights [that are] satisfying natural inclinations and adding notably to happiness and contentment."

But he also anticipated Black views of the 1960s and our own time when he said that the "Black man cannot be a white man, and that he does not need and should not aspire to be as much like a white man as possible in order to accomplish the best that is possible for him," adding, "He should seek to be, and he should be encouraged to be, the best possible Black man, and not the best possible imitation of a white man."

The president arrived in Birmingham by train, greeted by flag-waving throngs along streets full of flowers. He gave seven speeches that day, one to the "67 girls who had been voted the best-looking in Alabama." The remarks he made in the Birmingham park should have made history, but didn't.

"Partnership of the races in developing the highest aims of all humanity there must be if humanity, not only here but everywhere, is to achieve the ends which we have set for it," he told the audience, full of veterans of both the Civil War and World War I. "Is it not possible, then, that in the long era of readjustment upon which we are entering for the Nation to lay aside old prejudices and old antagonisms and in the broad, clear light of nationalism enter upon a constructive policy in dealing with these intricate issues?"

In recent years, there have been faint signs of rehabilitation, reevaluation and revisionism for Harding.

"Harding was far ahead of his time in seeing the problems of racism," John Dean, the Watergate figure who wrote a Harding biography, said in an interview. "He looked to the white people and told them we are one people. People are starting to realize that in his short tenure he was a remarkable president, especially when it came to race."

David Kennedy, the Stanford historian, pointed out that Harding's Republicans had the Black vote in the South locked up because the GOP was "talking about itself as the party of Lincoln." But that Black vote was infinitesimal, and in any case, the president was talking to a group of people whose party loyalties rested comfortably with the Democrats, who accounted for every Alabama senator for more than a century between 1879 and 1981. "Harding sounded like Stacey Abrams," Kennedy said in a reference to the unsuccessful Georgia gubernatorial candidate who has emerged as a leader of the effort to fight voter suppression and to bring Blacks to the polls.

In his speech, Harding said he hoped "that we shall find an adjustment of relations between the two races, in which both can enjoy full citizenship, the full measure of usefulness to the country and of opportunity for themselves, and in which recognition and reward shall at last be distributed in proportion to individual deserts, regardless of race or color." A century later, the hope persists.

David M. Shribman is the former executive editor of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Follow him on Twitter at ShribmanPG.

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Full-strength shots made by Pfizer and its partner BioNTech already are recommended for everyone 12 and older but pediatricians and many parents are clamoring for protection for younger children. The extra-contagious delta variant has caused an alarming rise in pediatric infections -- and families are frustrated with school quarantines and having to say no to sleepovers and other rites of childhood to keep the virus at bay.

In the 5- to 11-year-old age group, there have been over 8,300 hospitalizations reported, about a third requiring intensive care, and nearly 100 deaths.

States are getting ready to roll out the shots  just a third of the amount given to teens and adults  that will come in special orange-capped vials to avoid dosage mix-ups. More than 25,000 pediatricians and other primary care providers have signed up so far to offer vaccination, which will also be available at pharmacies and other locations.

But for all that anticipation, there also are people who strongly oppose vaccinating younger children, and both FDA and its advisers were inundated with an email campaign seeking to block the Pfizer shot.
Ultimately, a panel of 12 jurors will need to be seated in order for the trial to formally begin. This 12-juror panel will be the result of various questioning that is partially based on pre-trial questionnaire answers and six perfunctory strikes from both the defendants and the plaintiffs.

Many of the questions that attorneys asked Monday revolved around whether jurors would be unduly burdened by serving as a juror over the course of the four-week trial and whether the potential jurors would be able to set aside their preconceived opinions about the rally and defendants.

Several potential jurors were struck early on due to health or work reasons. One of the early jurors to be struck said that he was a news junkie and that, though opinionated, he thought he could separate his opinion from the facts of the case.

This whole town was turned on its head by the whole affair, I mean, just look at what happened over the last couple years, the juror said before being questioned what he meant by Moon. I think as a community we want to get it behind us and see justice done.

However, the juror was still struck due to his belief that several of the defendants were terrorists.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Senate confirmed two prominent anti-Trump Republicans to serve in the Biden administration on Tuesday with former Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona approved to serve as the ambassador to Turkey and Cindy McCain, the wife of the late Sen. John McCain, approved to serve as the ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture.

The Senate also voted to confirm former Democratic Sen. Tom Udall of New Mexico to serve as ambassador to New Zealand and Victoria Reggie Kennedy of Massachusetts, the widow of former Sen. Ted Kennedy, to serve as ambassador to Austria.

The nominations were approved through voice vote, a process taking only minutes that can be used so long as no senators object. Republicans, led by Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, are requiring the vast majority of Biden's other State Department nominees to go through a much more extensive and time-consuming process.

Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., thanked senators for acting quickly on the four nominations, but said he remains concerned about the overall pace of confirmations for the president's diplomatic corps.
Piedmont Virginia Community College students are eligible to get all of their tuition paid for the spring term as the school will continue its PVCC4U100%! assistance program, college officials announced on Tuesday.

The program paid the way for 430 students in the fall term and officials are expecting similar totals for spring term. The program is available to all new and returning students who enroll in the spring 2022 semester, providing they meet eligibility requirements.

PVCC is 100% committed to helping ensure access to quality education. We are thrilled to be able to extend our commitment to fully cover tuition and fees for as many students as possible for the upcoming spring semester, said PVCC President Frank Friedman, in a prepared statement. We know that over 430 students have benefitted from the program, many of whom would be unable to attend our college without this assistance.

The school launched the program in May 2021. It covers tuition and fees for eligible students with eligibility standards in reach of most of those who apply. To be eligible, a student must be a Virginia resident, have a family income of $100,000 or less or have been laid off or furloughed due to COVID-19, complete the financial aid application process and enroll in 6 credit hours or more for spring semester.
A Charlottesville-based, African-American led nonprofit has scored a state grant to support a business incubation project for assisting Black entrepreneurs interested in starting up food and beverage businesses.

New Hill Development Corporation received the $150,000 grant to help fund the Black Entrepreneurial Advancement and Community Opportunity Network, or BEACON. The project will help with critical skills needed to start, stabilize, sustain and expand a business.

We are so pleased to have this support from the state of Virginia to kick off such a vital program, said Yolunda Harrell, co-founder and CEO of New Hill Development, in a prepared statement. We hope that this grant will help encourage the wider community to contribute time and resources to the hard work we are doing to support the economic stability of Charlottesvilles Black community.

A six-week pilot program in January and February will include a training program with in-person and online modules, as well as business support services including marketing, bookkeeping, and payroll management, New Hill officials said.
Everyone eligible should be vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel or employment.

Vaccination should be voluntary but those who don't get vaccinated should be frequently tested for COVID-19 as a condition of long-distance travel and employment.

Both vaccination and testing should be voluntary and not required as a condition of long-distance travel or employment.

I defer to the judgment of lawmakers as long as they base their decisions on a consensus of medical professionals.

Vote

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I moved to Soap Creek Valley in 1979; its been my home for 42 years. The Coffin Butte Landfill is 4 miles north.

Soap Creek residents have had the landfill in our backyard for decades. We have cleaned up roadside trash and illegal dumps. We have lived with the smells, sights, sounds and opportunistic wildlife that go with that industry.

In 2020, Coffin Butte Landfill accepted waste from 22 Oregon counties and Washington State. The landfill is growing exponentially; at todays tip rate, the current cell will be filled in four years. Rather than moving operations to another permitted site, cell 6, the Coffin Butte quarry, Valley Landfills/Republic Services has applied for a conditional use permit to expand the landfill south of Coffin Butte Road.

The CUP application also calls for vacating Coffin Butte Road, a publicly owned and maintained road, and filling that access with waste. This raises safety concerns for local residents, as an evacuation route is permanently sealed off.

Benton County contributes about 12% of the total annual tonnage. How long would the current permitted site last if some of those loads were redirected to fill sites closer to where the trash originated?

As a community, it is time to reevaluate the future of this site and act. On Nov. 2, the Benton County Planning Commission will be meeting to review LU-21-047, Conditional Use Permit application for expansion of Coffin Butte Landfill. Anyone can write in, testify or contact your county commissioners.

Becky Merja

Corvallis

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India's Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has notified the amendment to the Unified Licence (UL) Agreement for calculation of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) for computation of licence fee.

According to a circular from DoT, the new amendment takes Applicable Gross Revenue as equal to Gross Revenue minus revenue from operations other than telecom activities. Income from receipts from the USO fund, bad debts, excess provisions, interest, dividend, capital gains, income from property rent, and an insurance claim will be excluded from Gross Revenue.

The move, applicable from October 1, would reduce future payment obligations of carriers to the government in the form of levies such as licence fees, thus helping improve the finances of the debt-laden sector.

The old definition of adjusted gross revenue (AGR) upheld by the Supreme Court had led to a burden of around INR 1.47 lakh crore (USD 20 billion) on operating telecom service providers, including Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea, and pushed the sector into a deep financial crisis.

The definition of AGR, which had been a major bone of contention for the sector has been rationalised by excluding non-telecom revenue of telecom companies on a prospective basis in a Cabinet meeting in September.

The new amendments would definitely make the private operators in the country very happy. This is what Bharti Airtel and Vodafone Idea were fighting with the government about in the Supreme Court last year (2020). The private telcos wanted the AGR to exclude all the non-telecom revenues.
American multinational investment bank Goldman Sachs, through its Goldman Sachs Asset Management unit, signed a credit agreement with Elea Digital, the digital infrastructure unit of Brazilian group Piemonte Holding, to expand data centers.

According to a press release from Rio de Janeiro-headquartered financial group Piemonte Holding, the consummation of the transaction remains subject to regulatory and other approvals, including that of the Brazilian antitrust authority (Cade).

The investment in Elea Digital will allow the Brazilian company to boost the standardization of a platform of five scale data centers, spread across five Brazilian metro areas (Porto Alegre, Curitiba, Brasilia, and Sao Paulo), and to further increase geographical footprint around Latin America, it said.

"Elea Digital's primary focus is to support the development of cloud computing and 5G technologies, by upgrading and building a digital infrastructure that sits at the edge and extends the central cloud within various regions of Brazil," said the release.

Elea Digital's five data centers are at the edge of the central Latam cloud region in key Brazilian metro areas: Porto Alegre, Curitiba, Brasilia, and Sao Paulo.

Currently, Elea Digital's core revenues derive from colocation and cross-connectivity infrastructure services provided to a wide range of customers, mainly concentrated in the information technology, telecom, banking, media, and public sectors.
Veon has signed a seven-year agreement with Amdocs to enable innovative digital services for its customers in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan.

The agreement aims to help Veons Beeline mobile operators in Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan to launch transformational digital services and personalised experiences. To achieve this, they will deploy Amdocss microservices-based monetisation and commerce suites using technology based on cloud-ready architecture.

Kaan Terzioglu, CEO of Veon Group, said: This agreement will give us the business agility and IT velocity we need in our digital operator transformation. Shuky Sheffer, President and CEO of Amdocs Management Limited, added: The seamless introduction of new digital services, with fast time to market and personalised experiences, will enable consumers in these markets to take advantage of the next-generation of communication and media experiences, as well as lay the foundations for future growth and innovation.

Under the agreement, Amdocs will provide new monetisation, service and network automation solutions, catalogue management, commerce and care systems, as well as enable new multi-channel front ends for digital services. Veon has 6.7 million in Uzbekistan, of which 56% are 4G subscribers with access to digital services, while in Kazakhstan over 58% of its 10 million customers use 4G services.
JioPhone Next, the smartphone jointly developed by India's largest 4G network Reliance Jio and global internet major Google, will run on a new operating system called Pragati OS. The Pragati OS, powered by Android, has been built specifically for the country.

Ahead of the great Indian festival of Diwali, Jio has released the Making of JioPhone Next film. According to the short video, the new phone is designed with India at its heart and has already started receiving global attention.

Pragati OS has been engineered by the Jio and Google to bring Pragati (progress) for all while offering a truly seamless experience at an affordable cost, said the video.

"I am so proud of this new OS. All of us are. It has some of the coolest new features specially translated now. I can speak in one language, and the phone will translate that into another language," JioPhone Next product management Binish Parangodath said. JioPhone Next will have a translation feature working in 10 Indian languages.

The new name- Pragati OS- is to be a software skin on top of the Android Go operating system. For those unaware, Android Go is a stripped-down version of Android that is meant to support low-end phones with limited hardware capabilities.

JioPhone Next is built with features like the Google Assistant, automatic read-aloud and language translation for any on-screen text, a smart camera with India-centric filters, and much more.

JioPhone Nexts processor comes from Qualcomm and focuses on delivering optimised connectivity and location technologies, along with optimisations in device performance, audio, and battery, it said.

Though the company has not disclosed its pricing, RIL Chairman Mukesh Ambani has earlier said JioPhone Next will be among the most affordable phones in the world.

The affordable smartphone is being manufactured at facilities in Tirupati and Sriperumbudur through a partnership with Neolync Solutions Private Limited.

According to the market observers, the smartphone is expected to be priced between INR 3,500 - 4,000 (GBP 34 to 39). The phone is crucial to the companys strategy to win over 300 million 2G customers.
Two tower-related stories from Malaysia indicate the continuing need for reliable infrastructure to meet the requirements of underserved rural areas.

First the operator Telekom Malaysia (TM), via its wholesale domestic and international business arm TM Wholesale, has collaborated with nine tower providers, giving it access to the nine companies tower site facilities.

This collaboration will allow the high-speed fibre optic network to connect to the towers, enabling high-quality network performance and capability.

Local media reports add that the partnership also underlines TMs role as an enabler of Digital Malaysia in supporting the countrys digital aspirations, which include the Jalinan Digital Negara (Jendela).

And Jendela is part of another recent tower story, in which integrated telecommunications infrastructure services company edotco Malaysia has handed over 113 new telecommunications towers for Phase 1 of Jendela. The new infrastructure was built across seven states.

The Jendela project, driven by regulator the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), aims to help mobile network operators expand and expedite mobile coverage availability in underserved rural areas. The telecommunications infrastructure will, it is hoped, bridge the digital divide by enabling public cellular services in areas with limited or no coverage.

Infrastructure company edotco specialises in end-to-end solutions in the tower services sector including co-locations, build-to-suit, energy, transmission and operations and maintenance.

The company says it began the tower installations in February 2020 simultaneously in all seven states. The tower installation includes radio equipment and other ancillaries at all 113 sites.

Phase 1 of the Jendela project encompasses 152 sites in eight states.
Ireland Statement at UNGA 6th Committee on UN Programme of Assistance

Statement

Madam Chair,

Ireland aligns with the statement made by the European Union and makes some additional comments in its national capacity.

Ireland extends its thanks to the Secretary General for his informative report on the operation of the Programme of Assistance.

Ireland acknowledges the importance of the aim of the Programme, to contribute to a better knowledge of international law. This plays a crucial role in achieving the principles and purposes of the United Nations in accordance with the Charter, most notably the maintenance of international peace and security and the development of friendly relations among nations. A better knowledge of international law helps to promote the rule of law at the international level in accordance with Goal 16 of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Ireland recognises the essential function which the Codification Division of the Office of Legal Affairs of the United Nations has in implementing the Programme and also thanks the Advisory Committee for its work in this regard. In particular, Ireland acknowledges the steps which all those involved in the operation of the Programme took to continue to deliver its aims, notwithstanding the Covid-19 pandemic, which clearly had a significant impact on the organisation of activities over the period in question.

While the pandemic presented various, unprecedented challenges, Ireland welcomes the initiatives by the Codification Division to avail of opportunities to organise online educational activities and online lectures. Ireland appreciates the value of the Regional Training Courses, which help to ensure training in international law for participants from developing countries. We also recognise the importance of the International Law Fellowship Programme. Ireland welcomes the information in the report on the numbers of persons applying to and participating in these programmes, broken down into regions and genders. We are pleased to make annual contributions to support these important initiatives.

Ireland especially commends the Codification Division for establishing the alumni network of participants of the training programmes, organised under the Programme of Assistance. As has been referred to by other delegations, the aspect of the Programme with the widest potential reach is the UNs Audiovisual Library of International Law. This is an important resource for both students and practitioners. The broad range of high quality lectures, in audio and video format, on the Librarys website provides a comprehensive resource of international law topics.

Ireland praises recent efforts to facilitate access and promote awareness of the lectures through social media and the Library podcast. Ireland would also encourage further reflection on how to make the presentations more accessible and user friendly, in a search-friendly format. Such a development would facilitate quicker and easier access to this important resource. Ireland is glad to support the work of the Audiovisual Library through annual contributions to its work.

We welcome the news of the most recent award of the Hamilton Shirley Amerasinghe Memorial Fellowship on the Law of the Sea. Given the relatively high cost of each fellowship, we encourage all member states in a position to do so to consider contributing to the relevant voluntary trust fund so that it can continue to be awarded regularly to deserving candidates.

Madam Chair,

Ireland is proud to continue to support the Programme of Assistance across its different areas of activities in the teaching, study and promotion of international law. The work carried out by the UN Programme of Assistance is very important to broaden awareness and promote a greater understanding of international law and in this regard, Ireland encourages other States to also consider supporting its worthy initiatives.

I thank you, Madam Chair.

 Previous Item | Next Item 
Statement by Ambassador Flynn at the UNGA 6th Committee on Crimes Against Humanity

Statement

Thank you, Madam Chair,

Ireland aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union.

Ireland strongly supports the recommendation of the International Law Commission to elaborate a Convention on the basis of the Crimes against Humanity draft articles. It is time for the international community to address this significant gap in the international treaty law framework and contribute, in a meaningful way, to the fight against impunity.

This is the third occasion on which the draft articles concluded by the International Law Commission are before the Sixth Committee, and we must now take action on them. The admirable work by the International Law Commission deserves appropriate recognition and consideration by the Sixth Committee. The draft articles reflect the Commissions balanced and nuanced approach to this topic, and are the proper starting point to codify the law in this area.

Madam Chair,

It is imperative that we bear in mind that our end goal is not just the elaboration of an international convention. Rather, it is the creation of a national and international framework that prevents crimes against humanity, and effectively punishes the perpetrators of such crimes, where they occur.

Ireland also remains committed to the successful conclusion of the International initiative towards the development of a Multilateral Treaty for Mutual Legal Assistance and Extradition in Domestic Prosecution of Atrocity Crimes. Ireland is supportive of both initiatives and continues to view them as complementary.

Madam Chair,

While Ireland still believes that an international conference of plenipotentiaries would be the preferred next step, we have reflected on the discussions over the last number of years and appreciate that some Member States are not yet ready for that next phase.

In order to address the concerns of such States, and to ensure that the momentum achieved by the Commission on this important topic is not lost, Ireland can support the proposal for the creation of an Ad Hoc Committee. This will allow for time for a detailed debate and discussion and allow for reflection on the next steps towards the elaboration of a Convention. However, for such an Ad Hoc Committee to be effective, its terms of reference must be clear and it must operate under a precise timeframe for the completion of its work.

Ireland urges other Member States to look constructively and flexibly on this approach in order to advance the Sixth Committees consideration of this important topic.

Madam Chair,

Crimes against humanity threaten the peace, security and well-being of the world. In accordance with the Charter of the United Nations, the Sixth Committee has an obligation to promote and maintain international peace and security, as well as justice and accountability. The elaboration of a convention on the prevention and punishment of crimes against humanity is one concrete step which the Sixth Committee can take towards this goal.

The international community must now take steps to fill this gap and elaborate such a treaty, in order to reflect the most abhorrent nature of such crimes and to express the universal revulsion which we, the peoples of the United Nations, experience when such crimes occur.

Progress proved elusive last year, owing in part to the difficult circumstances surrounding the pandemic. Lets seize the moment, commit to a clear timeline and work together to avoid any prolonged delays.

Ireland is ready to engage and to actively participate in the next steps on the path to a convention.

I thank you, Madam Chair.

ENDS.

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Moscow, ID (83843)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. High around 40F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 28F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.
Candidate bios

Ken Faunce

Running for: Moscow School District, Zone 2

Age: 59

Education: Doctorate in history/historical archaeology

Experience: Four years on the Moscow School Board, with the last year as chair. Twenty years teaching at Washington State University focusing on undergraduate education and first-year students.

Family: Spouse and four children

Statement: I am engaged and passionate about education. A quality education in a safe and secure environment is extremely important for our children. I work hard to improve education on all levels. I will continue to bring this engagement and passion to my work with the Moscow School District.

Kendra Pickard

Running for: Moscow School District, Zone 2

Age: 56

Education: Masters degree in marketing; bachelors degree in international relations, economics

Experience: Mother of four boys, early morning seminary teacher, business manager at Pickard Orthodontics, Readers as Leaders coordinator, president of married student housing UCLA, internal auditor Entergy Corporation and marketing analyst at Intel Corporation.

Family: Spouse and four children

Statement: Benjamin Franklin said, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." We need a long-term plan. I would love the opportunity to serve on the school board to help get Moscow schools ready for the future.

Brian P. Kennedy

Running for: Moscow School District, Zone 5

Age: 52

Education: Bachelors degree from Colgate in biological sciences; doctorate from Dartmouth in ecology and evolutionary biology

Experience: I have been in higher education for my entire adult life and have served on the Moscow School Board for the last three years. I am a professor at the University of Idaho and have served in leadership positions for the UIs Federation of Teachers, Local 3215 of the AFT. I have taught in Moscow since 2005, managed large, federally funded research projects, advised students, collaborated with Moscow School Districts teachers and served on university committees that resolve disputes and oversee faculty appeals. I have my own school-aged children that have been raised in the Moscow School District and try my best to stay connected with the successes, concerns and frustrations of other Moscow families as well as their teachers.

Family: Spouse and two children

Statement: I believe the Moscow School District embodies all that is best about our community.  Three years ago, I joined the board to contribute to that process and to give back to the community that has meant so much to my family. My experiences in these three years have made me appreciate the significant role and responsibilities of the board as well as the importance of maintaining effective communication, focusing on a student-centered ethic and constantly anticipating future challenges.  As a board member, I can promise to advocate for the district and build partnerships that help us make positive steps toward progress on these challenges to serve the best interests of all our students.

Tim Halvorson

Age: NA

Education: Oregon Institute of Technology

Experience: Staff design engineer at Comtech Telecommunications. Co-owner of Garnet Property Management. I would bring problem solving skills and data-driven decision-making skills learned throughout my career as an electrical engineer. I am also a small business owner and would like to see concepts, such as return on investment analysis, applied to running the districts finances. I am also a parent who has had children in the district for the past 20 years. Lastly, I have experienced firsthand the value of education and the impact that it has had on my life.

Statement: I decided to run after the district adopted Mastery Based Learning in 2019. The methods utilized in MBL were overwhelmingly rejected by parents, students and teachers and resulted in our middle school students organizing a protest and walking out of class. Going back further, an experimental math curriculum was adopted in 2008. The concerns of parents, students and teachers were ignored. There is a pattern of decision making that indicates a disconnect between the school board and people it is intended to serve. We need to stop chasing the latest educational fad. We need to listen to students, parents and teachers.  We need to elect leaders into school board positions that are not only thinkers, but also do-ers. I will actively represent the constituents of Zone 5 by listening to their input and following up with a response.
BRUNSWICK, Ga. (AP)  The final giant chunk of an overturned cargo ship was removed from waters along the coast of Georgia on Monday, almost a year after demolition began on the wreck that tipped over with 4,200 automobiles in its cargo decks.

Weighing more than 4,000 metric tons (4,410 U.S. tons), the eighth and last section of the South Korean freighter Golden Ray left the wreck site off St. Simons Island after a crane lowered it onto a big barge outfitted with a special cradle to hold the wreckage.

This is the end of the wreck removal phase," said Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael Himes, a spokesman for the multiagency command in charge of the demolition.

But the salvage job isn't over. Big pieces of the ship's side and other debris were left behind after the ship's center, the most damaged part of the vessel, was cut in two, Himes said. Those were the final two sections removed.

Cleanup of that debris and stray wreckage that fell from the other larger sections, including some cars, will take two weeks or longer, Himes said. Then crews will 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.
The administration's reversal of both rules came as political and legal battles over abortion are growing sharper amid burgeoning efforts by Republicans to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade at the U.S. Supreme Court.

Yost emphasized that his lawsuit does not challenge the right to an abortion as guaranteed under Roe. The litigation follows a letter he and 20 other states sent to Health and Human Services in May warning the Biden administration against reversing the rules.

The prohibition against family planning clinics funded under Title X using public funds for abortions was contained in the Family Planning Services and Population Research Act of 1970, Yost said.

States joining the challenge are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and West Virginia. Not all states participate in Title X.

Groups representing the clinics said they hoped this month's reversal would lead some 1,300 local facilities that left in protest to return.
PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  A type of whale that is one of the rarest marine mammals in the world lost nearly 10% of its population last year, a group of scientists and ocean life advocates said on Monday.

The North Atlantic right whale numbered only 366 in 2019, and its population fell to 336 in 2020, the North Atlantic Right Whale Consortium said. The estimate is the lowest number in nearly two decades.

Right whales were once abundant in the waters off New England, but were decimated during the commercial whaling era due to their high concentrations of oil. They have been listed as endangered by the U.S. government for more than half a century.

The whales have suffered high mortality and poor reproduction in some recent years. There were more than 480 of the animals as recently as 2011. They're vulnerable to fatal entanglement in fishing gear and collisions with large ships, and even when they survive, they often emerge less fit and less able to feed and mate, said Scott Kraus, chair of the consortium.

"No one engaged in right whale work believes that the species cannot recover from this. They absolutely can, if we stop killing them and allow them to allocate energy to finding food, mates and habitats that arent marred with deadly obstacles, Kraus said.
The use of the defendants private lawyer/friend (not law enforcement or the DAs investigator) to find and persuade a witness is unheard of and fraught with ethical problems, the judge wrote.

Lumsden also ruled in favor of prosecutors on several other issued. She says prosecutors can use police body camera footage from outside a bar where Jones is accused of trying to influence an officer's testimony. Lumsden ruled Jones can't tell jurors he was suspended from office or would be removed if convicted.

Jones also can't claim he was singled out for prosecution, the judge ruled, or tell jurors about a September trial where he was accused of damaging government property in a May 2020 campaign video. The video included stunt driving moves, including cars driving in doughnuts with smoking tires in the parking lot of the Columbus Civic Center.

After a mistrial, the prosecutor dismissed the charges.

Jones is charged in another unrelated case with DUI, reckless driving and causing injury following a November 2019 crash in which police said Jones was driving drunk. That case remains pending.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
With an appointment still pending, Houston County Commissioner Ricky Herring said he looks forward to resolving his concerns over the process to appoint members to the Houston County Health Care Authority.

Herring said he planned to meet with representatives from the Houston County Health Care Authority and attorneys for Southeast Health on Monday afternoon. The District 3 commissioner first publicly questioned how appointments to the authority are made several weeks ago.

In the meantime, Herring has still not made his District 3 appointment. The current authority member continues to serve until an appointment is made.

The Houston County Health Care Authority  the governing board for Southeast Health  has 13 members. One is the president of the hospitals medical staff, and the remaining 12 are appointed by the Houston County Commission. The county commissions four district commissioners each appoint three members to the health care authority. The county commission chairman does not make any appointments.

Health care authority members serve six-year terms with appointments made every two years.

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Wiregrass cities are ready for trick-or-treating activities this week as the Halloween holiday approaches.

Local municipalities set different official hours for trick-or-treating this year as the Oct. 31 holiday falls on a Sunday:

Dothan: Saturday, 5:30-8 p.m.

Enterprise: Saturday, 5-7 p.m.

Headland: Saturday, 6-7:30 p.m.

Abbeville: Thursday, 4-7 p.m.

Ashford: Saturday, 5-7 p.m.

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Slocomb: Saturday, 5:30-8:30 p.m.

Ozark: Saturday, 6-8 p.m.

Geneva: Friday, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Several cities are sponsoring events as an alternative, or addition, to traditional door-to-door activities.

The City of Dothans Leisure Services Department will host its second annual Drive-Thru Trick-or-Treat event on Thursday at James Oates Park from 5:30-8 p.m. Participants are asked to remain in their cars while vendors will bring treats to each vehicle.
But the department is still plagued with other problems. When people apply for unemployment benefits, sometimes the information they file with the state is different than what their former employer filed. When this happens, state officials have to interview these people to resolve those issues.

But people are having to wait up to six months for these interviews. Saenz called this delay unacceptable. But she said the state has a new policy that pays people their benefits while they wait, as long as they pass the state's fraud filters. Saenz said about half of the people waiting for interviews are being paid.

Things are not improving fast enough for some. There are still some challenges ahead, she said.

California has paid out more than $178 billion in unemployment benefits since the start of the pandemic based on 25.5 million total claims. Saenz said that's four times as much as the combined worst two years of the Great Recession a decade ago.
Both Greenlee and Irvin were eventually paroled after serving prison sentences. None of the men are still alive.

The Groveland Fours story was recounted in the Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Devil in the Grove" by Gilbert King, who was interviewed by the prosecutor as part of his review of the case.

The Florida Legislature in 2017 formally apologized for what happened, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and the states three-member Cabinet granted posthumous pardons more than two years ago. In 2018, then-Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi directed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to conduct a review of the case. Earlier this year, the state police agency referred the case to Gladson's office.

As part of his review of the case, Gladson and an investigator interviewed the grandson of Jesse Hunter, the now-deceased prosecutor of two of the Groveland Four defendants. According to the grandson, Broward Hunter, his grandfather and a judge in the case knew there was no rape.
Also present was famed civil rights attorney Fred Gray, now 90, whos not currently involved in her case.

Recalling her arrest, Colvin told the crowd: My mindset was on freedom.

So I was not going to move that day, she said. I told them that history had me glued to the seat.

Colvin left Alabama at age 20 and spent decades in New York, but relatives always worried what might happen when she returned for visits since no court official ever said she had finished probation, according to Ensler.

Her family has lived with this tremendous fear ever since then, he said. For all the recognition of recent years and the attempts to tell her story, there wasnt anything done to clear her record.

Currently living in Birmingham before a move to stay with relatives in Texas, the octogenarian Colvin made her request to a juvenile court judge oddly enough since thats where she was judged delinquent and placed on what, for all practical purposes, amounted to a lifetime of probation, Ensler said.
The lawsuit stemmed not from the charges Beck was indicted on, but a story from Fox affiliate WAGA-TV about a 2017 arson that burned down a Carrollton rental property that Beck owned. The television station obtained a copy of Becks insurance application that showed two weeks before the fire, Beck nearly doubled his insurance coverage, from $95,000 to $186,000. Beck said he increased the insured value because of renovations. No one was ever charged with arson.

The television station also reported that Beck was managing the Georgia Underwriting Association at the same time that he had a full-time state job as a victim-witness advocate for a district attorneys office.

The lawsuit alleged that Beck told another department employee that he blamed the women for providing the information for the reporting by Fox News. and said he was going to clean the place up and get rid of the three women after taking office in 2019.

People shouldnt be damaged financially or otherwise, for just doing their jobs. And, doing them well, said Ed Tarver, a lawyer for the women.
The executive order comes three days after the state's largest universities announced employees must get vaccinated because of the federal mandate.

However, Ivey's executive order would not impact those plans announced by the University of Alabama System and Auburn University to require employees to be vaccinated for COVID-19 by Dec. 8. The universities were created by the Alabama Constitution and are under the management and control of a board of trustees.

The schools said the Alabama campuses in Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Huntsville and Auburn all are federal contractors, so they have to comply with an executive order signed last month by President Joe Biden.

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Ryan Easterling, a spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Public Health said that agency is still investigating how it is affected by the federal mandate, but wrote in an email that, "we intend to comply with (the) Governor's order."

Biden in September ordered sweeping new federal vaccine requirements for as many as 100 million Americans.
Mark Colson, president of the Alabama Trucking Association  which also opposes HB31 and similar measures  said Iveys executive order was spot on and argued that businesses should be making their own decisions and not the government.

In the end, government has a responsibility to create clarity, consistency and confidence for the private sector and let the job creators do their job, said Colson.

Colson called HB31, a government overreach that would create a flurry of lawsuits against businesses and provide another pay day for trial lawyers.

He added, We stand united in our opposition to HB31 and the Biden vaccine mandate.

A reported two dozen states run by GOP governors, including Alabama, are expected to challenge the federal vaccine mandates through the legal system. Iveys executive order issued on Monday begins to prepare for the legal battles ahead by requiring all state agencies to support efforts by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshalls Office to overturn the requirements.

Asked about a legal strategy, Ivey said, I think (Marshall) is waiting on orders to be sent out by President Biden. We havent seen them yet. We dont know what were fighting.
U.S. Rep. Mo Brooks said he was not involved in the planning of the Jan. 6 Save America rally at the Capitol where he made a speech shortly before rioters breached the building.

I had no intentions of going to that rally until Jan. 5, when the White House asked me to speak, Brooks said, adding that the date marked the beginning of his involvement in the rally.

The congressman said he could not say whether his staff interacted with two anonymous Rolling Stone sources  only identified as an organizer and a planner of the Jan. 6 rally and other protests  because he had not spoken to them about it.

Quite frankly, Id be proud of them if they did help organize a First Amendment rally to protest voter fraud and election theft, Brooks said of his staff.
"We have been horrified, scared and saddened ... as false information has been taken as fact and that unfounded stories have spread," Mako said in a written answer to one of the questions.

The dispute involves whether money his mother received from her former fiance was a loan or a gift. Mako's father asked Komuro to clarify, and he wrote a statement defending himself, but it is still unclear if the dispute has been fully resolved.

Komuro, 30, left for New York in 2018 to study law and only returned to Japan last month. His hair was tied in a ponytail at the time and the look drew attention as a bold statement for someone marrying a princess in the tradition-bound imperial family and only added to the criticism.

The couple will move together to New York to start a new life.

Many in Tokyo wished them good luck.

"Congratulations," said office worker Yasuhiro Suzuki. "I hope people in America will welcome them."

Retiree Kenko Suzuki said he expects life in New York will be challenging because they will have to live without people taking care of them. "So I'm rooting for them," he said.
Passengers check in at Cat Bi International Airport in Hai Phong. Photo by Shutterstock/huntergol hp

Hai Phong has approved the construction of a new cargo terminal at its Cat Bi International Airport at a cost of VND390 billion ($17.11 million).

The Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV) would be the developer and fund the construction, city authorities said in a statement.

The 64,000-square-meter terminal will be able to handle 100,000 tons of goods a year.

Construction is set to begin in the first quarter of 2022.

Hai Phong, two hours east of Hanoi by road, is home to a key port for both domestic and international trade.

The city administration wants to build an airport in Tien Lang District to reduce the overload on Hanoi's Noi Bai International Airport.
A medic holds a vial of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in Hanoi, September 11, 2021. Photo by VnExpress/Giang Huy

The Health Ministry announced Tuesday that a nationwide campaign to immunize children and teens against Covid-19 with start next month with the Pfizer vaccine.

"The vaccine is safe for children," Health Minister Nguyen Thanh Long said at a meeting.

The vaccine, produced by American corporation called Pfizer in New York and BioNTech, a German biotechnology company based in Germany, has been recommended for children by the World Health Organization.

The national campaign will start with those aged 16 and 17 and work its way down.

Only those having the written consent of parents and guardians can be vaccinated. They will have their health checked prior to the inoculation in line with the ministrys Covid-19 vaccination guidelines.

The ministry had on Oct. 14 approved the administration of vaccines for children aged 12-17, prioritizing the 16-17 age group. Tuesdays meeting and announcement was the first instance that specified the kind of vaccine to be used for the age group.

The nations two biggest cities, Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, have already prepared plans to vaccinate teenagers and children.

The HCMC Health Department plans to begin vaccinating 780,000 children against Covid-19 starting Wednesday, first in the downtown District 1 and the outlying Cu Chi District. Cu Chi is set to vaccinate around 1,500 children aged 16-17 on the first day, while District 1 will start with 310 12th graders.

Hanois vaccination campaign for children aged 12-17 is expected to commence in 2022.

The Pfizer vaccine has been administered to the12-17 age group in about 30 countries.

On October 23, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recognized the vaccine as suited for administration to the 5-11 age group.

Vietnam has so far vaccinated 52.6 million adults with at least one Covid-19 vaccine shot and 21.5 million people have been fully vaccinated.
Experts said aviation authorities plans to resume commercial flights carrying foreign tourists into Vietnam from later this year would be unfeasible if the seven-day quarantine rule remains unchanged.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam last week proposed the launching of pilot flights to carry foreign tourists to several tourist destinations like Phu Quoc, Khanh Hoa and Quang Ninh from this quarter onwards. Passengers would be quarantined at a designated hotel for seven days upon arrival in Vietnam.

In the first month, there would be one international flight a day, with around 4,000 to 6,000 foreign tourists allowed to visit the country. The flight frequency would be increased to two per day in the next months.

Dr. Bui Doan Ne, general secretary of Vietnam Aviation Business Association, said the plan would not be feasible with the seven-day centralized quarantine rule.

"No foreign tourist would sacrifice seven days of a holiday to be isolated in a hotel," he said.

From October 10-20, when some domestic routes were resumed under a trial phase, the seat occupancy rate was just 30-50 percent. Several flights were nearly empty, forcing carriers to cancel flights and avoid losses. Strict quarantine regulations imposed by localities were blamed.

After the quarantine requirement was eased, the number of domestic passengers has increased sharply, Ne noted.

He also said Vietnam has committed to accepting "vaccine passports" of many countries and territories where the pandemic situation is under control. Therefore, with the key markets of aviation and tourism, it was necessary to exempt foreign passengers with vaccine passports from centralized quarantine, he argued.

Economist Ngo Tri Long said CAAVs plan has not yet drawn from the experiences of regional countries like Thailand and Singapore in reopening aviation and tourism.

Aviation is a driving force of economic development and tourism a key economic sector with a turnover of $35 billion per year, he noted, adding that the quarantine rule would prevent foreign tourists from returning to Vietnam.

Only Vietnamese repatriates or foreigners who need to enter the country to do business need to accept such a quarantine regulation, Long said.

"A large number of fully vaccinated foreign tourists wish to return to Vietnam for their vacations. We need to consider this as a chance to boost economic recovery and create jobs for locals."

Long proposed that international commercial flights resume in November and fully vaccinated foreigners with a valid Covid negative certificate be exempt from the current quarantine rule.

A representative of national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines who did not wish to be named also proposed a quarantine exemption for fully vaccinated foreign tourists arriving from green zones that are deemed to carry low Covid infection risk.

If visitors are not fully vaccinated; or if they are coming from high-risk areas, they can be isolated at designated accommodations for seven days. If the test results are negative, they can be allowed to travel within Vietnam. Vietnamese citizens returning home, meanwhile, can self-monitor their health at home and avoid being quarantined at hotels.

"If the quarantine period is too long, foreign tourists will not want to fly to Vietnam. Instead, they will opt to go to Thailand and Singapore that offer easier entry," said the Vietnam Airlines representative.

Many countries have reopened their doors and do not even require passengers to be fully vaccinated. All visitors need is a negative PCR test result to be allowed entry.

Nguyen Tien Dat, general director of Hanoi-based AZA travel company, said foreign tourists with vaccine passports can be isolated for one to two days at isolated resorts in Nha Trang, Phu Quoc and Da Nang. After they show negative Covid results, they can travel to other places within the country, he proposed.

The Vietnamese government has announced tentative plans to reopen doors to foreign tourists after over two years of border closures.

Kien Giang, Khanh Hoa, Quang Nam, Da Nang and Quang Ninh, home to a number of tourist hotspots, will be allowed to welcome foreign tourists starting November as part of the nations roadmap to gradually resume international tourism.

Under the current vaccine passport policy, even fully vaccinated visitors to Vietnam have to undergo centralized quarantine for seven days.

Vietnam currently accepts Covid-19 vaccine passports from 72 countries and territories, and is discussing the issue with 80 others, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced last week.

The nation closed its doors to foreign tourists and canceled all international flights in March last year to contain Covid, allowing only Vietnamese repatriates and foreign experts and highly-skilled workers to enter.

Vietnam recorded a 79 percent decline year-on-year in the number of foreign visitors in 2020 due to travel restrictions related to the pandemic.

The nation welcomed just 3.83 million foreign visitors against a record 18 million in 2019, according to official data.
The extraordinary U.S. travel restrictions were first imposed in early 2020 to address the spread of Covid-19. The rules bar most non-U.S. citizens who within the last 14 days have been in Britain, the 26 Schengen countries in Europe without border controls, Ireland, China, India, South Africa, Iran and Brazil.

"It is in the interests of the United States to move away from the country-by-country restrictions previously applied during the Covid-19 pandemic and to adopt an air travel policy that relies primarily on vaccination to advance the safe resumption of international air travel to the United States," Biden's proclamation says.

The White House confirmed that children under 18 are exempt from the new vaccine requirements as are people with some medical issues. Non-tourist travelers from nearly 50 countries with nationwide vaccination rates of less than 10 percent will also be eligible for exemption from the rules. Those receiving an exemption will generally need to be vaccinated within 60 days after arriving in the U.S.

Those countries include Nigeria, Egypt, Algeria, Armenia, Myanmar, Iraq, Nicaragua, Senegal, Uganda, Libya, Ethiopia, Zambia, Congo, Kenya, Yemen, Haiti, Chad and Madagascar.

The White House first disclosed on Sept. 20 it would remove restrictions in early November for fully vaccinated air travelers from 33 countries.

"Families and friends can see each other again, tourists can visit our amazing landmarks. This policy will further boost economic recovery," State Department spokesman Ned Price said.

The Biden administration also detailed requirements airlines must follow to confirm foreign travelers have been vaccinated before boarding U.S.-bound flights.

One concern among U.S. officials and airlines is making sure foreign travelers are aware of the new vaccine rules that will take effect in just two weeks as well unvaccinated Americans who will face stricter testing rules.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued on Monday new contact tracing rules requiring airlines to collect information from international air passengers like phone numbers, email and U.S. addresses and retain it for 30 days in case it needed "to follow up with travelers who have been exposed to Covid-19 variants or other pathogens."

The CDC said this month it would accept any vaccine authorized for use by U.S. regulators or the World Health Organization and will accept mixed-dose coronavirus vaccines from travelers.

That list leaves off the Sputnik vaccine that has been used by Latin American countries extensively.

In Mexico, the government has said it plans to use its 24 million doses of Sputnik to inoculate nearly 9 percent of the population. A Biden administration official said Monday that some other major vaccines "are going to be under review as the data on performance of those vaccines becomes available in a regulatory process."

The Transportation Security Administration plans to issue a security directive that provides the legal basis for airlines implementing the vaccine requirements. The attestation form notes it is a crime for air travelers lie about vaccination status.

The CDC said there are no religious exemptions for international travelers seeking to avoid Covid-19 requirements.

Foreign air travelers will need to provide vaccination documentation from an "official source" and airlines must confirm the last dose was at least two weeks earlier than the travel date.

International air travelers will need to provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test taken within three days prior to departure. The White House said unvaccinated Americans and foreign nationals receiving exemptions will need to provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test within one day of departing.

The Biden administration plans to issue details later this week of its parallel plans to lift restrictions to land border crossings on Nov. 8 for vaccinated foreign nationals.
In a recent speech to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, or OECD, Secretary of State Blinken outlined four significant challenges that member nations must work together to solve.

The first, not surprisingly, said Secretary Blinken is the COVID-19 pandemic.

The OECD has provided us with critical data forecasting the economic impact of this crisis. The OECD was among the first organizations to push for groups of countries to make advance purchases of vaccines, which allowed companies to double down on production. This is the approach that will help the U.S. meet the commitment made by President Biden to fully vaccinate at least 70 percent of the population in 2022.

The second challenge is the climate crisis, said Secretary Blinken:

Our member states must model the behavior that we expect from others. That means adopting ambitious, nationally determined contributions to reduce emissions and invest in climate adaptation, moving swiftly to stop unabated coal emissions, ending investments in coal at home and abroad, and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies.

The third challenge deals with inequity. Minority communities have suffered a much higher proportion of deaths from COVID-19, as well as greater harm from the accelerating impacts of climate change.

One means of advancing equity is through a global corporate minimum tax rate. This will allow us to avoid a self-defeating race to the bottom in which all of our countries have lowered our corporate tax rates, only to see others lower theirs in response, said Secretary Blinken.

Finally, OECD countries need to establish a new set of rules for emerging technologies, said Secretary Blinken:

We must ensure that advances in technology are used to lift people up and advance human freedom  not suppress dissent, further entrench inequities, or target minority communities. Together, we can help ensure our values and interests help shape the new digital rules of the road.

The work of the OECD has never been so important, declared Secretary Blinken. Weve got to prove that our approach can make life better for people  in our countries and in all countries. And in a way thats more equitable than its been in the past.

If we continue to work together to find the best policies  while staying rooted in the shared values that have guided us for the last 60 years, said Secretary Blinken, there is no limit to what we can achieve.
The World Health Organization has started shipping COVID-19-related medical supplies to North Korea. Although no formal change to the DPRKs severe closed border policy has been announced, the WHO said it has begun to transport emergency health kits, medicines, and medical supplies through the Chinese port of Dalian to the North Korean port of Nampo.

The United States welcomed the news. We continue to support international efforts aimed at the provision of critical humanitarian aid to the DPRK, said State Department Spokesperson Ned Price. In particular, he pointed to the ongoing efforts by the United States to expedite approvals in the UN 1718 Committee for organizations from around the world to deliver lifesaving aid to the DPRK. The 1718 Committee is responsible for overseeing the sanctions measures imposed by the UN Security Council on North Korea, including consideration of cases for humanitarian exceptions.

We do support efforts to alleviate the suffering of the North Korean people, Spokesperson Price declared. Its important to emphasize, at the same time, that the DPRK regime itself is primarily responsible for the humanitarian situation in the country. The regime continues to exploit its own citizens, to violate their human rights, to divert resources from the countrys people to build up its unlawful WMD and ballistic missiles program.

Spokesperson Price described U.S. policy toward the DPRK as a calibrated, practical approach that seeks serious and sustained diplomacy with the DPRK to make tangible progress that increases the security of the United States, our allies, and our deployed forces. Our goal remains complete denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, and to that end we remain prepared to meet with the DPRK without preconditions.

State Department Spokesperson Price said the United States has made specific proposals for discussions with the DPRK in our messages to them, and we hope that they respond positively to our outreach.

Meanwhile, regarding the sanctions against the DPRK, Mr. Price noted the existence of humanitarian carveouts, exemptions, or authorizations to ensure in the first instance we are not doing anything that would compoundthe deprivation of the North Korean people.

Even when we disagree with a particular regime, he declared, we believe we must work to the best of our ability to do all we can to alleviate the suffering of the people.
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"We do support efforts to alleviate the suffering of the North Korean people. We are involved in efforts to facilitate the provision of humanitarian aid to the neediest in North Korea.
Barrick CEO Mark Bristow was back in Elko in late October to visit some of the Nevada Gold Mines sites and to talk about the gold mining joint ventures progress, challenges, and also some of the community partnerships they are working on.

NGM Executive Managing Director Greg Walker said a key community focus for NGM is to invest in Nevadas youth through educational initiatives and career development.

We did some special things this last year, Bristow said. Not only did Nevada Gold Mines contribute some $290 million in taxes to the state treasury, but also we invested in what I would call amazing initiatives on education.

At a meeting Monday morning, Federico Zaragoza, president of the College of Southern Nevada, said the college is working with Nevada Gold Mines and the Clark County School District on a pilot program to offer high school students the opportunity to earn a certificate in diesel technology or industrial maintenance. NGM has invested $110,000 in the initiative.

Zaragoza said the education model in the U.S. is lagging behind other countries in developing people skilled in some of the much-needed technical trades.

The beauty of this is that as we speak, the pilot has already begun, Zaragoza said. Weve already begun to introduce a model with Nevada Gold Mines that we believe is going to stimulate adoption of this type of model statewide.

Great Basin College President Joyce Helens talked about some of the collaborative programs being worked on by NGM and GBC. NGM is providing $5,000 scholarships to students in the colleges Maintenance Training Cooperative program, which gives young people the opportunity of a career in diesel, welding, electrical systems, instrumentation, or industrial millwright. NGM is supporting the colleges Commercial Driver License program, a six-week course to qualify for a Class A driving license. Also, NGM has allocated $300,000 to assist the college with GBCs new Welding Lab expansion.

Bristow said NGM has talked with the Nevada governor and legislature and has agreed to provide additional tax revenue for Nevadas education system.

Were really pleased about the outcome of those negotiations, Bristow said. Its one of the few approved legislations out of Carson City that was so broadly supported. It just shows you how much education is needed in this state.

Walker said some of the additional programs NGM has supported to promote education and career development include bringing reliable high-speed internet services to Elko, Spring Creek and Lamoille, providing Chromebooks for long-distance learning, investing in teacher training and leadership initiatives, and promoting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and its inclusion of women and communities of color.

Bristow said NGM is putting about $30 million into Nevadas broadband project.

Its a significant investment, he said. Were very excited about that project.

In addition to the focus on the importance of education, Bristows update on Nevada Gold Mines covered many other topics.

Covid and vaccines

Bristow talked about his concerns about the effects of the Covid pandemic, but indicated that NGM wont be pursuing a vaccine mandate.

I think a lot of it is education and mature conversation rather than banging the table and demanding obedience, Bristow said.

He said Barrick Gold has operations in some very poor parts of the world  including places where the vaccine is still not readily available  and some of these areas now have higher vaccination rates than northern Nevada.

We are so privileged to have access to unlimited amounts of vaccine, Bristow said. The vaccines that we administer here are FDA approved; theres no better institution in the world to opine on the safety of the vaccine.

He asked area mayors and community leaders to help encourage people to get the vaccine.

This pandemic can be managed, Bristow said. Weve demonstrated that within Nevada Gold Mines and also across the northern part of Nevada, where we led the nation in our response when it arrived, adhering to protocols and making sure that we were responsible not only to our work colleagues but our own families. For us now the challenge is how do we deal with this and how do we get rid of these masks. Because we need to get back to normality.

Bristow said it was a terrible tragedy that six people in the NGM workforce have passed away from Covid complications. They ranged in age from 23 to 68.

Those are very clearly preventable if we take the vaccine, Bristow said.

If you are in doubt about the importance of vaccines, reach out to your medical doctor to get advice, he added.

In response to Covid, Bristow said, NGM initiated a fund to support small businesses impacted by the pandemic.

We put in a $5 million commitment, Bristow said. We challenged our partners and other business members of this community to contribute, and we have I think another $282,000.

The key thing was, we were able to preserve about 142 jobs and create, during this process, an extra 63 jobs. Weve been able to support some 33 small businesses.

You cant put a value on that.

Bristow said that although this program was created to help during the Covid crisis, NGM is looking at continuing a program like this to help support the creation of new businesses.

Exploring for gold

He said NGM has some very significant projects in the permitting phase, and some exciting explorations.

We have a horizon of more than 10 years ahead of us, and were working very hard to extend that, Bristow said. Were all about investing in our future. We see huge opportunities to continue to make discoveries, whether extensions or brand new discoveries. I really believe when they are made, they will make a significant contribution to our local economy.

One of the significant challenges this quarter, Bristow said, was a giant bearing that had been running for about 33 years at Goldstrike began to leak. He said it took almost four months to repair, and during this time the production at the processing facility was reduced by about 40%. He said, however, that they have still gotten close to their guidance for the year, which is an exceptional achievement for the Nevada team.

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Oct. 25

Taylor M. Brummet, 28, of Spring Creek was arrested at Elko County Jail on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a misdemeanor crime. Bail: $1,140

Francia Figueroa Franco V, 25, of Ogden, Utah was arrested on U.S. Highway 93 for domestic battery. Bail: $3,140

Juan J. Flores Alcazar, 22, of Ogden, Utah was arrested on U.S. Highway 93 for carrying a concealed weapon without a permit and domestic battery. Bail: $8,140

Michael M. Johnson, 22, of Elko was arrested at 438 S. Fifth St. for driver disobeying peace officer, reckless driving disregarding personal property or safety, and violation of probation.

Jose Sarat Baten, 34, was arrested at 2065 Idaho St. for battery on a protected person and two counts of battery. Bail: $4,780

Leonard M. Treis Jr., 37, of Spring Creek was arrested at Elko County Courthouse on a state prison hold.

Breann L. Williams, 25, of Elko was arrested at 650 W. Idaho St. on a warrant for failure to appear after bail on a felony crime. Bail: $25,000

The charges above do not imply guilt. Under the law, everyone is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

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ELKO  A juvenile is facing felony charges after a school shooting threat was posted via social media.

A 14-year-old female high school student was arrested Monday night, hours after an investigation was launched by Elko Police, Elko County Sheriffs Office, School Resource Officers and the FBI.

At around 4 p.m., local law enforcement began receiving reports that someone was threatening to commit a school shooting at Elko or Spring Creek High School, police said. The threat came via the social media site Snapchat.

Schools opened as scheduled on Tuesday, according to the school district, but with a visible presence of SROs at each campus.

Patrol officers will spend more time patrolling near schools located in their assigned areas, the school district said in a statement release early Tuesday.

Police said they made the arrest at 10 p.m. at the teens home and she was booked into the Elko County Juvenile Detention Center.

Currently, police are not searching for any other suspects, but they called the investigation ongoing as law enforcement analyzes electronic evidence collected from the suspect.

In a screenshot provided by police, the threat, allegedly made by the suspect, alludes to recent acts of vandalism committed at Elko High School and states the poster and her friend are tired of Elko and Spring Creek High Schools.

A second school shooting threat circulating on social media Tuesday was determined not to be connected to Elko County, according to law enforcement and the school district.

Schools are scheduled to open Wednesday, the district added.

Earlier on Monday, four juveniles were identified by police as suspects in multiple acts of vandalism over the past week, including the EHS building, restrooms at Lamoille Canyon, Johnny Appleseed Park, Elko Skate Park and numerous vehicles and businesses.

The Elko County School District responded to news of the arrest and thanked law enforcement.

The school district wants to thank the school resource officers involved in the case, the Elko Police Department, the FBI and the Elko County Sheriffs Office for their quick response to address this threat, the district said.

Counselors and others are on hand at both Elko and Spring Creek high schools for students who may need to talk to someone about these events, the district added.

We know this information may be unsettling, the district said. If your student wants to talk with someone, they may connect with a mental health professional at their school, including school counselors, social workers and SROs.

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SANTA FE, N.M. (AP)  The assistant director who handed Alec Baldwin the gun that killed a cinematographer last week had been fired from a previous job after a gun went off on a set and wounded a member of the film crew, a producer said Monday.

The disclosure emerged as producers of Baldwin's movie officially halted filming, and court records showed that investigators seized more than two dozen items from the set on the day after the shooting.

In an email statement to The Associated Press, a producer for the movie Freedoms Path confirmed that Dave Halls was fired from the 2019 production after a crew member suffered a minor injury "when a gun was unexpectedly discharged. The producer, who asked not to be identified by name, wrote that Halls was removed from the set immediately." Production did not resume until Halls was gone.

His firing from Freedoms Path was first reported by CNN. Halls has not returned phone calls and email messages seeking comment.

The producer is the second person to air doubts about Halls' safety record. On Sunday, another crew member who worked with Halls said she raised concerns about him in 2019.

Maggie Goll, a prop maker and licensed pyrotechnician, said in a statement that she filed an internal complaint with the executive producers of Hulus Into the Dark series over Halls behavior. Goll said in a phone interview that Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician, who was diabetic, lost consciousness on set.

The fatal shooting and previous experiences point to larger safety issues, Goll said, adding that crew safety was a top issue in recent contract negotiations between a union that represents film and TV workers and a major producers group.

This situation is not about Dave Halls. ... Its in no way one persons fault, she said. Its a bigger conversation about safety on set and what we are trying to achieve with that culture.

In an email sent to Rust crew members over the weekend, the movie's production team confirmed that work on the Western has been suspended at least until the investigation is complete. The team said it is working with law enforcement and conducting its own internal safety review. The production company is also offering grief counseling.

The email suggested that work on the film could resume at some point.

Although our hearts are broken, and it is hard to see beyond the horizon, this is, at the moment, a pause rather than an end, the email read.

The sheriff's investigation continued Monday, and new court documents showed that authorities seized three black revolvers, ammunition boxes, a fanny pack with ammunition, several spent casings, two leather gun belts with holsters, articles of clothing and swabs of what were believed to be blood.

No charges have been filed. Prosecutors and law enforcement officers were expected to provide an update on the investigation Wednesday.

Moments before the shooting, Baldwin was explaining how he was going to draw the revolver from his holster and where his arm would be positioned, court records show.

The actor had been told that the gun was safe to use for the rehearsal of a scene in which he was supposed to pull out the weapon while sitting in a church pew and point it at the camera, the records said.

Cameraman Reid Russell told a detective that he was unsure whether the weapon was checked before it was handed to Baldwin, and he did not know why the gun was fired.

The camera was not rolling when the gun went off and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, Russell told authorities, according a search warrant affidavit released Sunday.

Authorities have said that Halls had handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced cold gun, indicating it was safe.

When asked about how Baldwin treated firearms on the set, Russell said the actor was safe, citing a previous instance when Baldwin made sure a child actor was not near him when a gun was being discharged.

The affidavit released Sunday also included statements by director Joel Souza, who was standing behind Hutchins and was wounded.

It detailed the moments before the shooting and showed that there was turmoil on the set the day of the shooting. Several members of the camera crew walked off the production in a dispute over payment and lodging, Russell said, and he was left with a lot of work to do. Only one camera was available to shoot, and it had to be moved because the light had shifted and there was a shadow.

Souza said he was focused on how the scene would appear on camera. He said he recalled hearing the phrase cold gun before the shooting, the affidavit said.

He said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds. After a lunch break, Souza said he was not sure if the firearm had been checked again. Souza was looking over Hutchins' shoulder when he heard the gunshot, according to the affidavit.

The films chief electrician, Serge Svetnoy, blamed producers for Hutchins death in an emotional Facebook post on Sunday. Svetnoy said he had worked with Hutchins on multiple films and faulted negligence and unprofessionalism among those handling weapons on the set. He said producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

Baldwin, who is known for his roles in 30 Rock and The Hunt for Red October and his impression of former President Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live, has described the killing as a tragic accident.



Italie reported from New York. Associated Press writers Ryan Pearson in Los Angeles, Gillian Flaccus in Portland, Oregon, and Michelle Eaton in Newport Beach, California, contributed to this report.

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

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Voters in New Jersey have a choice of five candidates, and their running mates, to lead the state for the next four years. However, the two main contenders are the incumbent Democratic Governor Phil Murphy and Republican Jack Ciattarelli.

Governor Murphy will be defending his record in a state that rarely re-elects Democratic governors. His main challenger former state Assemblyman Ciattarelli is hoping that voters wont associate him with former President Trump who lost the state by almost 16 points.

Election Day is 2 November 2021 but for the first time, voters can cast their ballot early. Legislation enacted in March opened a nine-day early voting period for the New Jersey electorate at locations across the state until 31 October.

Who are the candidates for New Jersey Governor in 2021?

New Jerseyites can choose one of the five joint tickets, governor and lieutenant governor, from the Democratic, Republican, Green, Libertarian or Socialist Workers Party. The latest poll from Emerson College puts the distance between the two major party candidates at just four points.

Democratic ticket

Governor Phil Murphy is running again with his Lt. Governor Sheila Oliver in 2021. During his first term New Jersey has taken a more progressive turn with tax hikes on the wealthy which were directed toward K-12 education, childcare, tuition-free college, and government-employee pensions. He has promised that he will not raise taxes again in his second term should he win re-election.

Some of Murphys major accomplishments during the past four years include increasing the minimum wage which will gradually rise to $15 in 2024. He expanded voting access, this year New Jersey will have early voting for the first time. Those with limited means can now attend community colleges tuition free.

He is attacked by some of his opponents for his handling of the covid-19 pandemic, albeit a majority of New Jerseyites have a favorable opinion of the measures taken to tackle the pandemic. Currently the school and daycare center mask mandate in effect for children as young as two is drawing much of the criticism.

Republican ticket

Jack Ciattarelli, a former state Assemblyman for six years, shares the GOP ticket with former state Senator Diane Allen. Ciattarelli has focused much of his campaign on the high taxes in New Jersey, one of the biggest issues for the states residents. If elected, he says that he would lower a number of taxes, primarily the state property tax. He would achieve this through reforming the states school funding formula and how the state allocates aid to districts.

He would also make cuts to income taxes for the poorest and the wealthiest, exempting those who earn less than $20,000 and cutting how much top earners pay by 30 percent. Ciattarelli would also reduce the tax burden for small businesses and corporations.

Ciattarelli would take a tougher stand on immigration pledging to end the states so-called sanctuary policies for undocumented immigrants. He says he supports abortion rights but would prohibit abortions after 20 weeks. He backs vaccination but opposes mask and vaccination mandates.

For a rundown on how the two main candidates differ on a range of issues, NJ.com looks at the issues one-by-one.

Green Party ticket

Madelyn R Hoffman, is an adjunct professor of political science and public speaking at Hudson County Community College. She is running for governor with Heather Warburton as the candidate for lt. governor. They support adoption of a Green New Deal in New Jersey. Furthermore they support tuition-free public college for New Jersey students and ending youth incarceration in the state.

Libertarian ticket

The top plank on the Gregg Mele for governor website is ending lockdowns even though New Jersey has largely ended covid-19 restrictions. However, the Libertarian candidate takes issue with Governor Murphys mask mandate in daycare centers and schools which is in place since children under 12 cannot yet get vaccinated. Joining him on the Libertarian ticket is Eveline Brownstein, a human resources professional.

Mele also calls for the tax burden to be reduced for residents and business which is causing a mass exodus from the state. His platform includes calls for freedom of choice in education, healthcare and tackling climate change by unleashing American innovation. Additionally, he calls for releasing all prisoners currently being held on marijuana possession.

Socialist Workers Party ticket

The candidate from the Socialist Workers Party, Joanne Kunian, is currently working as a deli worker at Walmart but has worked at oil refineries and in the meat packing industry. Her running mate Vivian Sahner also works at Walmart but previously worked at a union auto plant as reported by Patch. Their main platform is labor equality and workers rights, including cutting the work week without cutting pay and more safety for workers . They also support women's rights to family planning services as well as end police brutality and anti-Semitic assaults.
Progressives may still tank infrastructure bill despite framework agreement

Dealmakers in the Democratic party have been working out details of the Build Back Better bill which members of the Progressive Caucus want to see passed before they will agree to vote "Yes" on the infrastructure bill languishing in the House.

According to reports Speaker Nancy Pelosi has said 90 percent of the "care economy" bill is nailed down, but there is no expectation that a written bill could be drawn up for a vote before the end of the week. Instead negotiators hope to have a framework which they can work with.

Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal is saying that won't be enough for at least a dozen of her members. Pelosi can only lose a few votes from her side of the aisle if the infrastructure bill is to pass without GOP support. Despite the bill getting a bipartisan vote in the Senate, Republican leaders in the House have been whipping votes against the infrastructure bill.

Pelosi wants to bring the infrastructure bill up for a vote before the end of the week to send President Biden off to the Climate Summit in Glasgow with something to show. Additionally, the Highway Fund will run out of money 31 October if the infrastructure bill is not passed.
Photo for illustration. (Source: VOV)

This figure represents a year-on-year fall of 5.4% in volume and a rise of 3.4% in value compared to the same period from last year.

Most notably, the nations coffee export price reached the highest level since December 2017, with the average export price in September alone increasing by 4% to 2,093 USD per tonne from August and a rise of 11% compared to September, 2020.

During the nine-month period, the average export price of Vietnamese coffee surged by 9.2% to 1,884 USD per tonne, an increase of 9.2% against the same period from last year.

Furthermore, Vietnamese coffee exports to almost all major markets soared, with the exception of the United States, Spain, Belgium, and the Philippines.

These results indicate positive signs for the local coffee sector amid the complicated developments of the COVID-19 pandemic and high transportation costs.

The Import-Export Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade forecasts that local coffee exports will continue to increase due to a global rise in the consumption demand and social distancing measures gradually being eased.

According to the Vietnamese Trade Office in Sweden, despite Nordic countries mainly importing Arabica coffee, Vietnamese unroasted or decaffeinated coffee has plenty of room for development in the potential market.

Moreover, the enforcement of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) will serve to help local coffee enjoy competitive advantages in the Nordic market, with tariffs being slashed to 0%.

Thanks to these prospects, domestic firms are advised to devise proper marketing strategies and develop brands for specialty coffee and other coffee products, as well as investing in designing their websites, company brochures, and product specifications to make further inroads into the demanding market./.
According to the Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister, ASEAN leaders will discuss how to adapt safely, flexibly and control the COVID-19 pandemic; while ensuring the gradual restoration of socio-economic activities under new normal conditions.

At the same time, it is necessary to ensure the progress of the implementation of plans to build the ASEAN Community and ASEAN cooperation activities in the new normal, such as institutional reform, promotion of advantages of the results of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, digital transformation, and coordination to handle non-traditional security issues.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyen Quoc Dung (Photo: baoquocte.vn)

The leaders will also discuss the relationship between ASEAN and its partners, especially the relationship between ASEAN and its dialogue partners, maintaining ASEAN's central role in regional issues; while discussing ASEAN's stance and views of point on developments happening in the region that affect the overall situation of the region, and discussing current hot spots such as Myanmar and East Sea and Korean Peninsula issues.

Noting Vietnams role in preparation for the Summits, Deputy Minister Dung said that Vietnam - ASEAN Chair in 2020, has put forth many proposals and initiatives and needs to coordinate with Brunei, the ASEAN Chair in 2021, and other ASEAN members, to continue to maintain and promote the momentum of implementation.

Vietnam has actively coordinated with other countries in the process of preparing, drafting and negotiating some 100 documents to be submitted to the senior leaders during the Summits.

Throughout this year, many problems have arisen, and Vietnam has played a very active and proactive role, contributing to ASEAN countries overcoming difficulties and obstacles, he said. For example, in Myanmar, we have coordinated with other countries to actively promote the implementation of the Five-Point Consensus of ASEAN leaders and sent a Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chairman on this issue.

Talking about the results of COVID-19 prevention and economic recovery initiatives, Deputy Minister Dung said that there were many COVID-19 prevention efforts proposed last year and actively implemented such as experience sharing, mutual support, the ASEAN COVID-19 Response Fund, regional medical supplies, and the ASEAN Overall Recovery Framework.

As a result, ASEAN countries have closely coordinated and supported each other in responding to COVID-19, supporting each other's citizens' protection, facilitating repatriation, and providing vaccination support for each other's citizens, ensuring the circulation of goods, especially essential goods, and ensuring the smooth operation of the supply chain.

Assessing Vietnams recent initiatives in ASEAN, Deputy Minister Dung went on to say that Vietnam had put forth initiatives in COVID-19 prevention, building the ASEAN Community, the foundation of ASEAN COVID-19 Response Fund, regional medical supplies, and the ASEAN Overall Recovery Framework.

It also contributed to the Community building effort, including developing the ASEAN Post-2025 Vision, reviewing the implementation of the ASEAN Charter, narrowing the development gap as well as sustainable development in the sub-regions, promoting sub-regional cooperation linked to the common cooperation process of ASEAN joint cooperation, he said. All of these initiatives are being implemented well.
Vietnamese Vice State President Vo Thi Anh Xuan on Baricada.org (Photo: Baricada)



According to the website, this is the first foreign visit of the Vice President of Vietnam since she was elected to this position in April 2021. On October 25, the Vietnamese Vice State President had a working session at the Vietnamese Embassy in Sofia with representatives of the Bulgaria-Vietnam Friendship Association. Her official meeting with the Vice President of the Republic of Bulgaria, Ms. Iliana Yotova, took place on October 26.

Answering the website reporters question, she said that she chose Bulgaria as the first country to visit officially in the new term to affirm Vietnam's importance and desire in further developing the good traditional friendship between the two countries.

Within the framework of the visit, I will join Vice President Iliana Lotova and Bulgarian leaders to discuss and evaluate the effectiveness of cooperation activities over the past time, including reviewing the implementation of high-level agreements, cooperation in the prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic, and exchange of specific directions and measures to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries in all aspects from politics to economy - trade, investment, education, culture, local cooperation and other fields, she said.

According to the Vietnamese Vice State President, Bulgaria is one of the first 10 countries in the world to recognize and establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam. Over the past 70 years, the relationship between the two countries has been constantly developing. The State and people of Vietnam highly appreciate and always remember the valuable support and assistance, both spiritual and material, that the Bulgarian people have given Vietnam in the struggle for national liberation and development.

Over the past time, the two countries have had favorable conditions to enhance high-level political contacts and exchange delegations between the ministries and branches of the two sides, creating a driving force for bilateral cooperation in the new period.

Noting that the cooperation in economic - trade and in a number of other fields is still modest and not commensurate with the relationship, potential or desire of both sides, she asserted that the two countries should take advantage of the Europe  Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to boost goods export, service and investment. In fact, the bilateral trade turnover saw strong growth in the 8 first months of this year, at USD124 million, an increase of over 55% compared to the same period last year, she said.

Vietnam wants Bulgaria to become a gateway for Vietnamese goods to penetrate Central Eastern Europe in particular and the EU in general, and in the opposite direction, Vietnam will be a bridge for Bulgaria to promote economic, trade and investment relations with Southeast Asian countries and ASEAN, according to the Vice State President.

Science, education - training and health care are fields with great potential and room for cooperation between the two countries. Particularly, education and training is a traditional field of cooperation between the two countries.

In previous years, Bulgaria has trained tens of thousands of officials, experts and skilled workers for Vietnam. This is an extremely valuable asset in the relationship between the two countries, as well as a bridge to promote cooperation in the above fields.

The two sides need to discuss and propose specific cooperation programs suitable to each country's resources, market needs and development level; strengthen meetings and consultations among ministries, sectors and businesses, especially within the framework of the Intergovernmental Committee on Vietnam-Bulgaria economic and trade cooperation to review the implementation of high-level agreements, remove difficulties and obstacles, thereby more comprehensively and effectively promoting the implementation of cooperation in all fields.

In the interview, she also appreciated the active contribution of the Bulgaria  Vietnam Friendship Association in consolidating and deepening the friendship between the two peoples./.
Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Vinh (R) and Governor Messaoud Djari (Photo: VNA)

Constantine province is the third largest economic center of Algeria, nearly 500km southeast of the capital Algiers, with strengths in tourism, farming, animal husbandry and the pharmaceutical industry.

According to the Vietnam News Agency correspondent in Algiers, within the framework of this working visit, the delegation had a working session with Governor of Constantine province Messaoud Djari.

At the meeting, Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Vinh congratulated Mr. Djari on the occasion of his appointment as Governor of Constantine province, and emphasized the good traditional friendship and similarities between Vietnam and Algeria. It is the foundation and driving force for the development of relations between the two countries.

According to Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Vinh, Algeria is one of Vietnam's leading partners in Africa, and the two countries are now promoting relations in many fields such as politics, economy, trade, investment and labor export.

On this occasion, the Ambassador also expressed his impression of Constantines great potential and affirmed that the Embassy is ready to act as a bridge between the province's businesses and those of Vietnam.

For his part, Governor Djari highly appreciated the Ambassador's visit to Constantine and affirmed his willingness to coordinate with the Vietnamese side to develop areas of mutual interest.

At the meeting, he also shared about the economic development strategy of Algeria in general and Constantine in particular, emphasizing that economic recovery is the current top priority, towards a diversified economy, reducing dependence on oil.

According to Mr. Djari, Constantine province has strengths and potential in tourism, agriculture and the pharmaceutical industry, so he suggested that the two sides can cooperate in these fields.

On this occasion, the Vietnamese Ambassador and Governor Djari expressed their joy that 2022 will mark important events of both countries: the 60th anniversary of Algeria's independence and the 60th anniversary of the establishment of Vietnam-Algeria diplomatic relations.

During this visit, the Ambassador had a meeting with President of Constantines Chamber of Commerce and Industry Souici Larbi. The two sides introduced the economic situation and potential of each other, discussed measures to promote bilateral cooperation in various fields, especially in economy and trade to exploit the strengths and bring economic relations to match the good political-diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Mr. Larbi emphasized that the pharmaceutical industry, agriculture and construction are the focus of Constantine's development. The province has been building many industrial parks to more effectively exploit the potential of the province.

Mr. Larbi also highly appreciated Vietnam's development achievements, and expressed his wish that Vietnam would share experiences in socio-economic development with Algeria in general and Constantine in particular. The meeting was also attended by leaders of a number of large businesses operating in Constantine.

Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Vinh also attended the opening ceremony of "Bati-Est-Expo 2021" on real estate, construction and public works in Eastern Algeria. This is the 4th time the fair has been held in Constantine, attracting the participation of hundreds of businesses operating in the field of construction and real estate.

The Ambassador and the honored guests cut the ribbon to open the fair, visited the booths introducing products of businesses.

In addition, the Embassy's delegation also contacted and discussed with Algerian businesses about the cooperation possibilities between the two sides, as well as provided and introduced the Handbook of prestigious Vietnamese enterprises in the fields./.
File photo shows Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok (5th L, front) and members of his cabinet posing for a group photo following a swearing-in ceremony in Khartoum, Sudan, Sept. 8, 2019. Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, members of the Transitional Sovereignty Council's civilian component and several ministers have been arrested by joint military forces, Sudan's Ministry of Information and Communications said on Monday. (Photo by Mohamed Khidir/Xinhua)

KHARTOUM, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, members of the Transitional Sovereignty Council's civilian component and several ministers have been arrested by joint military forces, Sudan's Ministry of Information and Communications said on Monday.

"Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, in a message from his house arrest, asks Sudanese to hold on to peace and occupy streets to defend their revolution," the ministry said on its Facebook account.

"Internet service cut off mobile phone networks, and bridges closed by military forces," it said. "The joint military forces storm the radio and television headquarters in Omdurman, and detain a number of employees."

Since the announcement of foiling a coup attempt on Sept. 21, the tensions between the military and their civilian partners in the transitional government have continued to escalate.

Sudan is ruled amid a 39-month transitional period under a transitional government of military and civilian elements, which was established after the ouster of former President Omar al-Bashir in April 2019. The transitional period is set to be followed by elections to form a new government. Enditem

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Editor: GSY
Chief of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) Stefano Del Col (C) salutes the UN peacekeepers on the occasion of the United Nations Day in Naqoura, southern Lebanon, on Oct. 25, 2021. Del Col urged on Monday the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Israeli Defense Forces to respect the sanctity of the Blue Line in furtherance of peace and stability. Del Col's remarks came during a celebration held at the UNIFIL's headquarters in Naqoura in southern Lebanon on the occasion of the United Nations Day. (UNIFIL/Handout via Xinhua)

BEIRUT, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chief of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), Stefano Del Col, urged on Monday the Lebanese Armed Forces and the Israeli Defense Forces to respect the sanctity of the Blue Line in furtherance of peace and stability.

Del Col's remarks came during a celebration held at the UNIFIL's headquarters in Naqoura in southern Lebanon on the occasion of the United Nations Day.

"For over a decade now, the iconic blue barrels have helped avoid incidents that could become flashpoints for misunderstanding and conflict," Del Col was quoted as saying by a statement released by the UNIFIL.

"By setting aside differences to engage constructively on resolving contentions, marking the remaining parts of the Blue Line and avoiding unilateral action, we can avoid this risk," he added.

The Blue Line is a border demarcation between Lebanon and Israel published by the United Nations in 2000.

Del Col stressed the importance of peacekeeping for creating a space in which political and diplomatic solutions can take root, while working independently and impartially.

"We have to redouble our efforts to create space for a political and diplomatic solution, and a permanent ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel," he said, adding that "in the meantime, and as a step in that direction, we should firm up the Blue Line arrangement as the essential deconfliction tool."

Del Col praised the dedication of peacekeepers and the commitment of the parties who contributed to 15 years of relative stability on the borders. Enditem

4

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Editor: GSY
Couples enter the venue of a group wedding at an express railway construction site in Nanning, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Oct. 25, 2021. Sixty-four couples, all of them first-line staff members of the China Railway Shanghai Bureau Group Co., Ltd., attended their group wedding in a reformed traditional style here on Monday. (Xinhua/Lu Boan)

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's, GMW.cn makes no representations as to accuracy, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information.
ACCRA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- Chinese doctors, together with their Ghanaian counterparts, have successfully removed a lipoma more than 20 centimeters in diameter from a Ghanaian patient, the Chinese medical team to Ghana told Xinhua Monday.

The male patient, 61, who had the lipoma on his back and also suffered from overweight, high blood pressure, respiratory obstruction, and some other illnesses, had delayed his treatment for a long time due to a high risk of failure in the operation, which made it a complicated case of the kind in the country.

Zhuang Shaohui, chief of the team, said that since the patient's respiratory tract had been obstructed by a lipoma on his neck, making it extremely difficult to apply anesthesia, not to mention other possible complications during and after the surgery.

"We felt very stressed after being told we were his last hope, but we were resolute in saving his life despite the enormity of the task, "said Zhuang, noting that the team later worked around the clock to come up with a comprehensive treatment plan after consultations with Ghanaian counterparts.

The surgery was carried out on Oct. 16. "People watching the surgery cheered at every major step we have accomplished in the process, and it went smoothly. We felt blessed when he woke up with a word of thanks," she said.

The patient recovered well and has been discharged from the hospital, said Zhuang, adding that the surgery is another indication of effective cooperation between Chinese doctors and their Ghanaian counterparts.

As of now, China has dispatched 10 medical teams to Ghana, which significantly contributed to the West African country's health sector.

Editor: WPY
Teruneh Zenna, Ethiopia's former ambassador to the United Nations, speaks during an interview with Xinhua in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Oct. 19, 2021. (Xinhua/Michael Tewelde)

ADDIS ABABA, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- The restoration of China's lawful seat in the United Nations in 1971 was a milestone moment that injected momentum in propelling global development, said Teruneh Zenna, Ethiopia's former ambassador to the United Nations.

China, as a responsible major country, "has played an active role in the UN peacekeeping operations and influenced the organization to adhere to its guiding principles," Zenna told Xinhua recently.

Sharing his memory about China's restoration of its lawful seat in the United Nations, Zenna said there was unparalleled jubilation during that historic moment.

"It was a great victory for the People's Republic of China when the resolution was presented and passed," he said.

According to Zenna, China's engagement with the United Nations has been paramount to global development, including its involvement in the UN peacekeeping mission as China became one of the top ten UN personnel contributors.

"China is now engaging in world peace and security issues through the United Nations and its voluntary contribution has increased over time with many Chinese peacekeeping troops largely deployed in Africa," he added.

Zenna underscored that China's fast economic development has made great contributions to the development and prosperity of the world, particularly to African economies.

"China has been doing a lot in the economic area and its projects, including the Belt and Road Initiative which is expected to help over 150 world nations interconnect," the diplomat said.

The veteran diplomat spoke highly of China's support to African countries in various fields of development, including the infrastructure sector.

"During the past 10 to 15 years, China has invested in Africa significantly and assisted African countries in building their infrastructures," Zenna said.

He noted that Ethiopia has achieved growth miracle during the past decade because of the Chinese assistance and investment, "to which we are very thankful."

The diplomat further stressed that China's support to multilateralism is a positive imperative to global cooperation on the fight against terrorism, inequality and global pandemic.

China's development vision of building a community with a shared future for mankind, which is based on respect and understanding of one's culture, civilization, motto and principles, is also very critical, he stressed.

"I appreciate this principle of mutual development and building a global community, which also builds a new future for humanity. It is very important," he said.

Editor: WPY
Aerial photo taken on Oct. 20, 2021 shows tourists visiting the forest in Yijing Town, Handan City of north Chinas Hebei Province. During the golden autumn season, around 50,000 red maples in Yijing Town turn from green to red, the colorful maple leaves attract many tourists to take pictures. (Hao Qunying/Guangming Picture)

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Photo taken on Oct. 13, 2021 shows the scenic spot of Sun Island in Harbin City of northeast Chinas Heilongjiang Province. Under the sunshine, patches of maple and birch trees showoff red and golden leaves, which decorate the northern Ice city of Harbin City. (Wu Hutu/Guangming Picture)

Disclaimer

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author's, GMW.cn makes no representations as to accuracy, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information.
Photo taken on Oct. 24, 2021 shows a press conference held by the joint prevention and control mechanism of the State Council in Beijing, capital of China. (Xinhua/Zhang Yuwei)

BEIJING, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- A total of 11 provincial-level regions have been affected within a week as a fresh outbreak of COVID-19 emerged in China, a spokesperson with the National Health Commission (NHC) said Sunday.

Sporadic cases reported in various regions have been increasing ever since Oct. 17, Mi Feng, spokesperson for the NHC, told a press conference.

Most of the cases have inter-region travel histories, increasing the risk of virus transmission to other regions, Mi said.

The spokesperson called for tightened anti-epidemic response against the new outbreak. Enditem

Editor: Zhang Zhou
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Oct. 26 (Xinhua) -- The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday kick-started its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei via virtual conference, with fighting the COVID-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said the ASEAN member states will take this opportunity to consider ASEAN's community building efforts in realizing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025.

He noted that ASEAN countries will also discuss other issues, including further strengthening the resilience towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and enhancing cooperation with dialogue partners.

Lim Jock Hoi, secretary general of the ASEAN, said in his greeting speech that despite the COVID-19 pandemic challenges, ASEAN's economic outlook remains resilient.

He said ASEAN's economic recovery from this pandemic will depend on a more even distribution of vaccination rollout across the region, which will ensure the continued fair and credible access to the vaccines for all people.

The ASEAN summits, with the theme "We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper," is scheduled to discuss a number of issues, including further strengthening the resilience of the ASEAN Community towards regional recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, enhancing the preparedness of the ASEAN in addressing common challenges; seizing new opportunities in pursuit of shared prosperity; and maintaining cooperation towards achieving the region's long-term goals.

As this year marks the 30th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations, expectations are also high that the upcoming summits would herald a new chapter for the relationship, which has grown from strength to strength and weathered difficulties and challenges, including the pandemic.

Meanwhile, both ASEAN members and their dialogue partners hope the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a mega trade deal between 10 ASEAN member states plus China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand which was signed last November, will take effect soon to promote regional trade and investment, thus helping with the post-pandemic economic recovery in the region.

Scheduled for Tuesday to Thursday, the 38th and 39th ASEAN summits and related summits will also be joined by leaders from ASEAN's dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the United States, Australia and Russia, among others.

Established in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Brunei is the ASEAN chair for 2021.

Editor: WPY
Naftogaz to supply gas to household customers of SoLR at UAH 7.96 per cubic m, budget-funded entities at UAH 16.8 in Oct-Nov

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine obliged the winner of the bidding on the supplier of last resort (SoLR), which is Naftogaz Ukrainy, to supply natural gas to household consumers at a price not exceeding UAH 7.96 per cubic meters, budget-funded entity not exceeding UAH 16.8 per cubic meters (including VAT and excluding delivery) in October and November 2021.

The decision to equalize the prices of the supplier of last resort with the current gas prices of Naftogaz Ukrainy for the population and budget-funded entities was enshrined in Cabinet of Ministers Resolution No.1102 dated October 25, 2021, the text of which was made public on the government portal.

In addition to amending Resolution No.809 dated September 30, 2015 on the supplier of last resort, by which the winning bidder agrees with such delivery prices for two months, these cut-off prices for SoLD are also enshrined in "quarantine" Resolution No.1236 dated December 9, 2020.

The gas price for SoLD customers, previously announced by Naftogaz, was UAH 16.56 per cubic meter in October (including VAT and excluding delivery), which is 38% higher than the September price (UAH 12 per cubic meter).

In addition, the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has changed the formula by which SoLD supplies natural gas. The formula previously prescribed in Resolution No.809 is limited to the period until September 30, 2021, and the new one is valid from October 1, 2021.

The government of Ukraine also introduced into the "quarantine" resolution a requirement for the Ukrainian GTS Operator with the participation of the Gas Transmission System Operators to automatically include in the SoLD portfolio the volumes of natural gas consumed by budget-funded entities (including municipal and state-owned medical facilities), which were not supplied from October 1, 2021 by any suppliers.

The GTS Operators were instructed to enter data on all protected consumers into the GTSOU information platform: the population, budget-funded entities, municipal and state-owned medical facilities, as well as heat producers for the above consumers.
State-controlled Oschadbank (Kyiv) has filed an appeal with the French Court of Cassation against the decision of the Paris Court of Appeal that the arbitration tribunal has no jurisdiction over the case regarding compensation to the Ukrainian bank for $1.3 billion in losses from the temporary occupation of Crimea, the bank's press service said.

"The consideration of the case on obtaining fair compensation for the assets of Oschadbank expropriated by the Russian Federation in the occupied Crimea is constantly in the center of attention of the bank's management. Despite the difficult course and unprecedented nature of this case, Oschadbank will use all available opportunities to fully satisfy its fair demands," head of the bank's board Serhiy Naumov said.

As reported, the Paris Court of Appeal on March 30 upheld the position of the Ministry of Justice of the Russian Federation on the absence of jurisdiction in the arbitration in the claim of Ukraine's Oschadbank for $1.3 billion.

"In particular, the Russian Federation managed to prove that the so-called investments, namely the Crimean branch of Oschadbank, were created before January 1, 1992, that is, back in the Soviet period, and therefore they are not subject to the agreement on the encouragement and mutual protection of investments," the Russian Ministry of Justice said.

Oschadbank was founded in 1991. Its sole owner is the state.

According to the statistics of the National Bank, as of June 1, 2021, in terms of total assets (UAH 290.783 billion) Oschadbank ranked second in the rating among 73 banks operating in the country.
The agreement signed between NJSC Naftogaz Ukrainy and the Moldovan state-owned company Energocom is a framework agreement, no natural gas supplies are foreseen under it, Director for Integrated Communications of NJSC Naftogaz Ukrainy Maksym Beliavsky has told reporters.

"The signing of a framework agreement does not oblige us to buy or sell. The framework agreement contains an approximate volume, but it is much less than 700 million cubic meters [as reported in the media], and we are writing it only to determine the approximate cost of the contract. I would like to emphasize that the framework does not oblige us to buy or sell at all," he said.

Beliavsky said that if Naftogaz wins the Energocom tender for the supply of gas, the companies will sign an individual agreement. "If there is a deal, we will sign an individual agreement in addition to the framework. As of today, we are participating in all Energocom tenders, but we have not been awarded a contract yet. That is, there are no deals with Energocom as of now," he said.

Earlier, Moldovan Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita denied the Ukrainian media report that the framework agreement signed between Naftogaz and Energocom provides for the supply of 700 million cubic meters of gas.
The majority of cement producers in Ukraine are forced to work with minimum margins due to the rise in coal prices by more than two times, the Ukrcement association has reported.

"The price swing for coal this year did not pass us by. The supply contracts were signed last year at an average price of $60 per tonne, and in August, suppliers agreed to ship coal at a price of at least $175 per tonne. This creates significant pressure on the pricing policy. It is impossible to make cheap goods out of expensive components," Chairman of the Ukrcement association Pavlo Kachur said in an interview with Interfax-Ukraine.

According to him, the cost of energy is 52-55% of the cost of clinker required for cement production. At the same time, all Ukrainian cement plants have previously been modernized and switched to coal due to the high price of gas.

The situation with the rise in prices for cement in Ukraine due to the rise in prices for coal is not unique and is observed in the markets of other countries, Kachur said.

"For example, Turkish cement producers sharply raised cement prices in July due to the rise in the cost of coal. We proceeded from the fact that we must take into account the needs of consumers. Therefore, some companies significantly minimized margins in order to go through this difficult period with minimal costs for cement plants and the construction market as a whole," he said.
Federal Councillor and Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland Ignazio Cassis will visit Ukraine, where he will meet with Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal and Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba.

According to the press service of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, within the visit, Cassis will visit Odesa on October 27 and leave for Kyiv on October 28, where he will hold bilateral talks with the Ukrainian Foreign Minister.

On October 29, Cassis and the Prime Minister of Ukraine will launch the preparatory process for the Fifth Ukraine Reform Conference (URC, 2022), which will be held on July 4 and 5, 2022 in Lugano.

"The conference will support Ukraine's reform efforts in 2022 with a focus on stability and prosperity, which are also key priorities of Switzerland's Foreign Policy Strategy 2021-2023," the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs said in the statement.

It is noted that two members of the National Council, Christine Badertscher (member of the Finance and Foreign Policy Committee) and Lars Guggisberg (member of the Finance Committee and President of its FDFA/EAER Subcommittee) will accompany Mr. Cassis on his trip to Ukraine.
The Court of Appeal in Amsterdam ruled to return the "Scythian gold" to Ukraine, first we will return the "Scythian gold," and then the Crimea," the head of state Volodymyr Zelensky said.

"The long-awaited victory in the Amsterdam Court of Appeal! 'Scythian gold' returns to Ukraine. Grateful to the court for a fair decision, and to the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Culture and Information Policy of Ukraine for the result. We always regain what is ours. After the 'Scythian gold,' we will return Crimea," Zelensky said on Twitter on Tuesday.

The Amsterdam Court of Appeal ruled on an appeal against a ruling by the Amsterdam District Court in December 2016 that the Allard Pierson Museum was to transfer the Crimean treasures to the Ukrainian state. This is a collection of artifacts from four Crimean museums.
If Russia cuts gas supplies, Ukraine will take retaliatory measures, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba has said.

"Russia has not yet cut off gas supplies to Ukraine. If the Kremlin decides to do so and destroy the remnants of its reputation as an energy supplier to Europe, we have a number of asymmetric retaliatory steps," Kuleba wrote on Twitter on Tuesday.
One serviceman of the Joint Forces Operation (JFO) has received fatal injuries, another received a shrapnel wound as a result of shelling of positions of Ukrainian defenders by Russia-occupation forces in the zone of responsibility of the operational-tactical group Skhid (East) on Tuesday.

"After providing first aid, the wounded was transported to a hospital. The serviceman's health is satisfactory," the 93rd Independent Mechanized Brigade Kholodny Yar said on its Facebook page on Tuesday.
Minister for Reintegration of the Temporarily Occupied Territories, First Deputy Head of the Ukrainian Delegation to the TCG Oleksiy Reznikov has denied information that appeared in the media about the possible replacement of current head of the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG Leonid Kravchuk with Serhiy Liovochkin, former head of the presidential administration during the times of Viktor Yanukovych.

"This information does not correspond to reality. No changes in the composition of the delegation in the TCG have been and they are not planned. This is someone's violent fantasy, which has nothing to do with reality and is not supported by any facts ... The decision to change the composition of the delegation both in 'Minsk' and in the Normandy Four is taken by the president and there was no talk of any rotations including in the context of a specific person. So, all these are ridiculous rumors," Reznikov said in a comment to the Interfax-Ukraine news agency.

He added that currently Leonid Kravchuk is temporarily replaced by his deputy Oleksandr Merezhko.

"The work continues. There are no special expectations, we have no illusions, but this does not negate the need to continue consultations and make every effort to hold the Normandy Four summit," Reznikov said.

As reported, at the end of June, the first president of Ukraine, head of the Ukrainian delegation to the TCG Leonid Kravchuk underwent heart surgery.

According to spokesperson of the Ukrainian delegation Oleksiy Arestovych, Kravchuk is currently undergoing rehabilitation in Germany. However, it is not yet known whether he will be able to return to acting as head of the Ukrainian delegation by the end of the year.
The Israeli city of Netanya may establish twinning relations with one of the Ukrainian cities - The Embassy

Getting acquainted with the potential of the city of Netanya and launching the Israeli-Ukainian Startup / Business Accelerator Program were the subject of a meeting between the Ambassador of Ukraine to the State of Israel Yevhen Korniychuk and the Mayor of Netanya Miriam Fireberg. The Embassy reported this at Facebook.

There was an acquaintance with the industrial, scientific, investment, innovation, resort and tourist potential of the city. As part of the event, much attention was paid to the establishment of the Israeli-Ukrainian Startup / Business Accelerator Program on the basis of the city. To this end, the establishment of a joint working group has been agreed. Given the potential of the city, as well as its dynamic development, it was agreed to work out the issue of establishing twinning relations between Netanya and the Dnipro, - the statement reads.

The delegation of the municipality is invited to take part in the Ukrainian-Israeli Innovation Summit, which will be held on December 15, in Kyiv under the slogan Ukraine-Israel: 30 years of friendship and cooperation.

The event was supported by the Global Israeli Initiative.
UkraineInvest gets 27 applications for state support under 'investment nanny' law for over $2 bln

The office for attracting and supporting investments (UkraineInvest) has received 27 requests from potential investors for a total of over $2 billion under the adopted law on "investment nannies," Serhiy Tsivkach, the executive director of UkraineInvest, said.

"As of today, we have received 27 applications for more than $2 billion, of which we see 7-8 priority projects ... totaling about $500 million," Tsivkach said during a meeting with Polish investors in Kyiv.

According to him, the projects will be submitted by the end of this year.

"We are actively working on this," he said.

Serhiy Tsivkach also added that the matter concerns projects in various fields, in particular in mechanical engineering and logistics.
On Wednesday, November 3, at 11.00, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine news agency will host press conference entitled "Twenty years of commercial and residential real estate evolution. Retrospective and trends." Participants include Director of UTG Yevhenia Loktionova, Head of the Strategic Consulting Department Kostiantyn Oliynyk (8/5a Reitarska Street). The broadcast will be available on the YouTube channel of Interfax-Ukraine. Due to quarantine restrictions, the number of seats in the press center is limited. Admission of journalists requires registration on the spot. Media accreditation by phone: (099) 067 0636 or at: pr@utg.kiev.ua.
In a letter to the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the Sunni Friday Imam of Zahedan, Mawlana Abdul Hamid, his claiming that Sunni citizens in Iran are still considered "second-class citizens."

The letter published on Tuesday, January 5, on the high-ranking Sunni cleric's official information site, is explicitly addressed to Khamenei.

"Forty-two years after the victory of the Islamic Revolution, the Sunnis of Iran still face many problems and concerns about civil rights, to the extent that they feel as lower-class citizens in the Islamic Iran," Abdul Hamid wrote.

He referred to issues such as the "non-appointment of Sunni dignitaries" as ministers, governors, advisers or deputy presidents, representatives of the Supreme Leader and advisers to the Supreme Leader, and their "limited use" in ministries, the armed forces, and Sunni provincial centers as examples of Sunni citizens' problems.

In an interview with Radio Farda, Abdul Hamid previously criticized the "discrimination" against Sunnis and the "lack of equality" between ethnicities and denominations in Iran.

Abdul Hamid wrote in his new letter that the "main problem" is that "decisions for Sunnis are made in certain places, and most of them are extralegal and arbitrary."

Abdul Hamid further cautioned Irans Supreme Leader that the "collection of problems and concerns" of the Sunnis had "gradually forced" them to lose their morale despite being "very much in love with their homeland," and utterly lose hope in the improvement of the situation.

He has also criticized the "efforts" of a newly founded organization called the "Sunni Religion Science Schools Planning Council." He said the council wanted to "dominate all Sunni religious affairs with the help and pressure of intelligence services and judicial institutions in different parts of the country, in cities and villages, and present itself the patron of all Sunni religious affairs."

He also shared that "Article 12 of the Islamic Republic Constitution has given the followers of Islamic denominations complete freedom in their religious affairs."

Abdul Hamid stressed that Khamenei's order to eliminate discrimination against Sunnis in Iran (issued in response to the Sunni Leader's 2017 letter) was "considered a formality" and "has not yet been implemented by the country's executive directors."

In August 2017, Abdul Hamid wrote a letter to Khamenei urging him to end discrimination and inequality against Sunnis in Iran.

Khamenei, who had ignored Abdul Hamid's previous letters, chose to respond by saying, "All elements of the Islamic Republic are duty-bound, by the religious teachings and the Constitution, to refrain from allowing any discrimination and inequality among Iranians from any ethnicity, race or faith."

The letter, dated ten days after Abdul Hamid's, was published three weeks later by his Chief of Staff.

However, according to Article 12 of the Islamic Republic's constitution, the country's official denomination is Twelver Imams' Shi'ite.

Furthermore, Article 115 stipulates that high positions in the Islamic Republic ruling system, i.e., the Supreme Leadership and Presidency are exclusive to the Shi'ites. Therefore, Sunnis and followers of other "official" religions and denominations cannot take such high positions.

Discriminations deeply institutionalized in Iran's laws, rules, and regulations have eliminated religious, ethnic, and non-believer minorities from electoral competitions.
Experts Argue That Prince Harry's Decision to Move to Hollywood (Photo : REUTERS )

As per illustrious biographer Andrew Morton, it was Prince Harry who drove the choice to leave the UK and the Royal Family for a daily existence in the United States. In the most recent version of his book 'Meghan: A Hollywood Princess', Morton asserts that "Hollywood insiders" have uncovered that it was the Duke of Sussex who pushed for himself and Meghan Markle to get away from the government. The Sussexes right now dwell in Montecito, California, with their two little youngsters.



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Addressing Us Weekly, Andrew Morton said: "Something I've found addressing Hollywood insiders, they've made it clear to me that Harry was the person who made the hurrying to go to Hollywood."



Sovereign Harry and Meghan Markle moved to the US in 2020 after their takeoff from the Royal Family.



Before their turn, they had been living in Frogmore Cottage in the Windsor Castle grounds, and filling in as all day individuals from the Royal Family.



Nonetheless, after under two years as an illustrious couple, they reported in January 2020 that they would venture down from their jobs and would split their time among London and North America.



Reports of a break among them and different individuals from the Royal Family had started to arise as right on time as October 2018, five months after their imperial wedding in St George's Chapel.



The Sussexes split from the Royal Foundation that they imparted to Prince William and Kate, and moved out of Kensington Palace.



During their sensation meet with Oprah Winfrey recently, Prince Harry suggested that it was desire following their fruitful visit through the South Pacific which propelled the turn in relations.



He said: "My dad and my sibling, Kate and the remainder of the family, they were truly inviting. Be that as it may, it truly changed after the Australia visit, after our South Pacific visit."



When asked by Ms Winfrey in case this was down to desire, he answered: "I simply wish that we would all gain from an earlier time."



He was referring to the excursions abroad his mom Princess Diana used to take with Prince Charles, which fuelled his envy over her famous status with the general population and the press.



The connection between the Sussexes and the Royal Family likewise demolished after the introduction of their child, Archie Harrison.



Both Harry and Meghan revealed to Oprah that they had been stunned to hear their child would not be given either a title or illustrious security.


Amazon and Blue Origin founder Jeff Bezos addresses the media about the New Shepard rocket booster and Crew Capsule mockup at the 33rd Space Symposium in Colorado Springs, Colorado, United States (Photo : REUTERS/Isaiah J. Downing/File Photo)

Billionaire Jeff Bezos-owned Blue Origin on Monday unveiled plans to develop a commercial space station called "Orbital Reef" with Boeing, aiming to launch the spacecraft in the second half of this decade.



The venture will be built in partnership with Sierra Space, the spaceflight wing of defense contractor Sierra Nevada Corp, and will be backed by Redwire Space, Genesis Engineering Solutions and Arizona State University.



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Orbital Reef will be operated as a "mixed use business park", and plans to provide the infrastructure needed to scale economic activity and open new markets in space, Blue Origin and Sierra Space said.



"Seasoned space agencies, high-tech consortia, sovereign nations without space programs, media and travel companies, funded entrepreneurs and sponsored inventors, and future-minded investors all have a place on Orbital Reef," the companies said in a statement.



Sierra in April announced plans to offer the first free-flying commercial space station. (https://bit.ly/2ZlJ8g3)



In July, Blue Origin had a successful debut space tourism flight, with Bezos and three others aboard. Earlier this month, 90-year-old U.S. actor William Shatner - Captain James Kirk of "Star Trek" fame - became the oldest person in space aboard a rocketship flown by Blue Origin.


A row of Tesla Model S sedans are seen outside the company's headquarters in Palo Alto, (Photo : REUTERS/Elijah Nouvelage/File Photo)

The head of the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board on Monday criticized electric carmaker Tesla Inc's decision to provide new self-driving software to vehicle owners without addressing safety concerns that the agency raised after a series of fatal accidents.



NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy wrote a letter to Tesla Chief Executive Elon Musk about his decision to let drivers request access to "Full Self-Driving Beta technology" before the automaker addressed "the very design shortcomings" implicated in fatal crashes in Florida and California involving its Autopilot driver-assistance system. Beta refers to a trial version of a product.



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"If you are serious about putting safety front and center in Tesla vehicle design, I invite you to complete action on the safety recommendations we issued to you four years ago," Homendy wrote.



The Full Self-Driving technology expands on the Autopilot software that helps with vehicle steering, accelerating and braking.



Tesla did not immediately respond to a request for comment.



The NTSB previously urged Tesla to add system safeguards to limit the use of automated vehicle-control systems to designated conditions and to develop applications to "more effectively sense the driver's level of engagement." The agency makes safety recommendations and has no regulatory authority.



Tesla has never officially responded to those recommendations.



Also on Monday, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which regulates auto safety, disclosed that Tesla has given the agency a partial response https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/inv/2021/INME-PE21020-1022.pdf to an information request issued as part of NHTSA's formal safety investigation into the automaker's Autopilot technology.



NHTSA said in an memo written last Friday and released on Monday that Tesla's response "has been received and is being reviewed." Tesla has asked NHTSA to keep its entire response confidential.



The agency in August sent Tesla an 11-page letter with questions it was required to answer by last Friday. NHTSA this month asked Tesla why it had not issued a recall to address software updates made to Autopilot to improve the vehicles' ability to detect emergency vehicles.



NHTSA's investigation into 765,000 U.S. vehicles came after a series of crashes involving Tesla models and emergency vehicles. NHTSA has identified 12 crashes that involved Tesla vehicles using the advanced driver-assistance systems and emergency vehicles, with most of the incidents occurring after dark.



In a separate letter this month, NHTSA asked Tesla to provide answers by Nov. 1 on its semi-autonomous driving technology called "Autosteer on City Streets" that the company made available to vehicle owners last year. Tesla refers to this technology as FSD.



"Despite Tesla's characterization of FSD as 'beta,' it is capable of and is being used on public roads," NHTSA said.



Tesla on Sunday rolled back the latest version of this software, less than a day after its release, after users complained of false collision warnings and other issues.



NHTSA also raised concerns about limits that Tesla has compelled vehicle owners to accept on disclosure to the public of safety issues.


U.S. climate envoy Kerry says the private sector should help achieve emission targets

John Kerry, Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, delivers remarks during a press briefing at the White House in Washington, U.S. (Photo : REUTERS/Tom Brenner)

U.S. climate envoy John Kerry said on Monday the private sector has to step in to help governments achieve emission targets, adding carbon emissions are not about politics or ideologies, but "about science".



Kerry was speaking in Riyadh where he attended the Middle East Green Initiative summit launched by Saudi Arabia.


Reality TV personality Kim Kardashian attends an interview with Reuters at the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT) in Yerevan, Armenia (Photo : Vahram Baghdasaryan/Photolure via REUTERS)

Kim Kardashian West's shapewear brand, Skims, is collaborating with Fendi on a new clothing collection, the companies said on Monday.



The new collection of body-hugging apparel is slated to be launched on Nov. 9 and was jointly designed by Kardashian West and British fashion designer Kim Jones, said Fendi, LVMH's Italian luxury fashion house.



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The move comes as luxury labels seek to generate buzz in a crowded media landscape by signing on celebrities including rappers and K-pop stars, with an eye to tapping into their broad fan bases.



Skims, which in April was valued at $1.6 billion, has gained popularity with younger shoppers since its launch in 2019 by Kardashian West, helped by the reality star and businesswoman's huge social media following.



Fendi has previously worked with rapper Nicki Minaj and artist Joshua Vides.



Kim Jones, who is also artistic director of menswear collections for Dior, another LVMH-owned label, is known for his flair for building brand heat in the luxury sphere through tie-ups with artists, popular culture figures and labels.



Jones brought on rapper Travis Scott to co-design the spring men's collection for Dior, for example, and teamed up with Donatella Versace on a "Fendace" collection that brought together Fendi and Versace designs.



The Italian labels closed Milan fashion week last month with styles that mixed Versace's Greek key motif with the Fendi monogram.


The Cisco Systems logo is seen as part of a display at the Microsoft Ignite technology conference in Chicago, Illinois, U.S. (Photo : REUTERS/Jim Young)

Cisco Systems Inc has created a team dedicated to developing its Webex collaboration software for Apple Inc products, the two companies said Tuesday as Cisco rolled out a new version of Webex for iPads.



Once known for its networking hardware, Cisco has set a goal to derive half of its sales from subscriptions https://www.reuters.com/technology/cisco-forecasts-growth-software-shift-chip-prices-pressure-profits-2021-09-15, including for paid software such as Webex, by 2025. It has been revamping the video meeting software with new features as it competes for users with Microsoft Corp's Teams, Zoom Video Communications Inc and Salesforce.com's Slack for users for remote and hybrid workers and had about 600 million monthly meeting participants https://www.reuters.com/article/us-cisco-systems-webex/ciscos-webex-participants-near-600-million-as-pandemic-flares-again-idUSKBN278018 last year.



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For its part, Apple has been working to deepen its market share with corporate IT departments by positioning its iPad tablets and Mac computers as productivity devices.



The new Cisco team is working to build features that use Apple's newest technologies quickly after they are released, such as an iPad technology introduced this year that uses artificial intelligence to focus in on whoever is talking when multiple people use an iPad to hold a video call, which will show up in the Webex app next month.



"The way that we think about software is that it's perpetually incomplete because there are always new ideas on how we can make it better. So the team will be focused on continuing to improve and continuing to work with the Apple ecosystem," Jeetu Patel, executive vice president of the security and collaboration units at Cisco, told Reuters.



Cisco is also using new tools from Apple to create separate Apple ID accounts for business and personal use.



"We think our security and our privacy story has never resonated more than it is in businesses today, with privacy being equally important for business data and for people concerned about their own data," Susan Prescott, Apple's vice president of enterprise and education marketing, told Reuters.


Customers wearing face masks are seen inside a Luckin Coffee store in Beijing, following the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, China (Photo : REUTERS/Tingshu Wang)

Luckin Coffee Inc reached a $175 million settlement of shareholder class-action claims that the Chinese rival to Starbucks fraudulently inflated its share price by falsifying revenue.



Lawyers for the shareholders called the all-cash settlement, filed on Monday night, an "excellent result," citing Luckin's liquidation proceeding in the Cayman Islands and its related filing for protection under the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.



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The accord also covers Luckin officials, and underwriters of the Xiamen, China-based company's $645 million initial public offering in 2019 and a later offering of American depositary shares.



U.S. District Judge John Cronan in Manhattan approved the preliminary settlement on Tuesday, and scheduled a Jan. 31, 2022 hearing to consider final approval. The settlement also requires approval by a Cayman Islands court.



Luckin denied wrongdoing. Its U.S.-based lawyers did not immediately respond to requests for comment.



Founded in 2017, Luckin ended March with about 5,000 stores.



Shareholders sued Luckin in February 2020, two weeks after short-seller Muddy Waters Research accused it of inflating revenue.



Two months later, Luckin's share price sank 81% after the company said an internal probe found that its chief operating officer and other staff fabricated about $310 million of sales in 2019, or about 40% of annual sales projected by analysts.



Luckin agreed last December to pay a $180 million fine to settle U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission accounting fraud civil charges.



The SEC said Luckin raised more than $864 million from equity and debt investors while the fraud was taking place.



Shareholders in the class action are led by Swedish pension fund Sjunde AP-Fonden and the Louisiana Sheriffs' Pension & Relief Fund.



Their lawyers, led by Kessler Topaz Meltzer & Check and Bernstein Litowitz Berger & Grossmann, may seek fees of up to 25% of the settlement fund.


A view shows virtual 38th ASEAN Summit, in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei (Photo : REUTERS/Ain Bandial)

U.S. President Joe Biden joined Southeast Asian leaders in rebuking Myanmar's junta on Tuesday, as a regional summit opened without a representative from the country following its top general's exclusion for ignoring peace proposals.



The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) had said it would accept a non-political figure from Myanmar at the virtual meeting, but the junta rejected that, saying it would only agree to its leader or a minister attending.



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In an unprecedented snub to the leader of a member state, ASEAN had decided to sideline junta chief Min Aung Hlaing, who led a Feb. 1 coup that spiralled into violence and chaos, for his failure to cease hostilities, allow humanitarian access and start dialogue, as agreed with ASEAN.



The decision was a huge rebuke to Myanmar's military and a rare, bold step by a regional bloc known for its code of consensus, non-interference and engagement.



"Today, ASEAN did not expel Myanmar from ASEAN's framework. Myanmar abandoned its right," said Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen, who will be the group's chairman next year.



"Now we are in the situation of ASEAN minus one. It is not because of ASEAN, but because of Myanmar."



Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi said ASEAN had a slot ready for Myanmar, but it chose not to join.



At the virtual summit, Biden voiced "grave concerns" over the violence in Myanmar and called on its military to release people who have been unjustly detained, the White House said.



Myanmar said its absence was "due to denial for the Head of State or Head of Government or his Ministerial level representation." A foreign ministry statement said it "does not intend to show its protest against ASEAN or to boycott ASEAN."



Addressing leaders, Indonesian President Joko Widodo lamented Myanmar's "unwelcome attitude" towards ASEAN's diplomatic efforts, Retno said.



"It's important for us to honour the principles of non-interference. But on the other hand, we're obligated to uphold other principles ... like democracy, good governance, respect for human rights, and a constitutional government," she said, quoting the president.



Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of ASEAN chair Brunei said Myanmar should be given space to return to normalcy in line with ASEAN's principle of non-interference.



The region's leaders urged "the mediation of the situation in Myanmar to uphold ASEAN's credibility", he said in a statement.



It was Brunei, with majority backing, that had decided to exclude the junta leader.



Myanmar's military, which has ruled the country for 49 of the past 60 years, has accusing ASEAN of departing from its norms and of allowing itself to be influenced by other countries, including the United States.



Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha, a retired general considered the ASEAN leader closest to Myanmar's coup-makers, urged the country to implement a five-point roadmap it agreed with ASEAN.



CREDIBILITY AT STAKE



"ASEAN's constructive role in addressing this situation is of paramount importance and our action on this matter shall have a bearing on ASEAN's credibility in the eyes of the international community," said Prayuth, who first came to power in a 2014 coup before his party won elections five years later.



ASEAN acted days after its special envoy, Erywan Yusof, said the junta denied him sufficient access https://reut.rs/3vdCjIW, including to ousted elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who is charged with multiple crimes.



Suu Kyi, 76, appeared in court on Tuesday and denied one of the charges, incitement to cause public alarm, media reported.



Prayuth said he was hopeful the junta would trust ASEAN's intentions and that Erywan could visit Myanmar soon and make an "important first step in the process of confidence-building".



U.N. envoys say that since the coup, Myanmar security forces have killed more than 1,000 people and detained thousands, many tortured and beaten.



Myanmar has rejected this as biased and exaggerated by unreliable sources and blames "terrorists" loyal to a shadow National Unity Government (NUG), an alliance of anti-coup groups, militias and ethnic minority rebels.



U.S. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met NUG representatives on Monday.



Sullivan told a White House briefing on Tuesday he had praised their "courage and commitment" and discussed humanitarian aid and "diplomacy with the key countries in the region and those with influence on the military junta, and how the United States could send strong messages to those countries."



Biden attended a joint session with ASEAN, the first time in four years Washington has engaged at the top level with a bloc it sees as key to countering an increasingly assertive China.



Biden said ASEAN nations can expect him to personally show up in the region in future.



"Our partnership is essential to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, which has been the foundation of our shared security and prosperity for many decades," he said.


Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and First Lady Entissar El-Sisi received on Thursday the British Crown Prince Charles and his wife Camilla Parker  the Duchess of Cornwall  at the Ittihadiya Presidential Palace.
Health officials warn that precautions must be heeded in the face of a fourth wave of infections

Daily rates of Covid-19 infections are creeping up. They reached their lowest levels in March, when an average of 31 infections and four deaths were recorded. On Monday the figure had increased to 106 infections and six deaths, and the Ministry of Health has warned that a fourth wave of Covid-19 infections is expected in late September or early October, coinciding with the beginning of the academic year.

Students at public schools and universities are scheduled to return on 9 October, and international schools will start on 12 September. A handful of private universities say they will begin the new term in late September.

Noha Assem, an advisor to the Ministry of Health and Population, says health officials are increasingly concerned by the publics failure to take precautionary measures. Many people have abandoned the wearing of face masks, and basic precautions such as washing hands regularly and using hand sanitisers. People are acting as there is no coronavirus in the country, she said.

According to Assem, a programme to vaccinate school staff is already underway and will be complete before the beginning of the new academic year.

Egypt has been preparing for the arrival of the Delta variant, which has been recorded in 15 neighbouring countries, Tunisia among them. The Scientific Committee to Combat Coronavirus is updating the treatment protocol for people infected with coronavirus with the arrival of the new variant in mind, she said.

Unfortunately, the Delta variant spreads faster than other variants, and children are susceptible. Vaccination is essential. Assem added that while no drug has been removed from existing Covid-19 protocols, immunity stimulant drugs have been added.

Health officials continue to beseech the public to wear face masks, maintain social distance and regularly wash their hands or use sanitiser.

Professor of chest diseases Khaireya Ebeid cautions that Egyptians returning from abroad, and from crowded local resorts, are already pushing the Covid-19 curve upwards. We are already seeing an increase in infections, mostly among those who have not been vaccinated. Yet people still ask whether they should take the vaccine or not, she says.

Only 2.7 per cent of Egypts population of 100+ million have been fully vaccinated, while 3.8 per cent have received one dose. The governments target is to fully vaccinate 40 per cent of Egypts population by the end of the year, Khaled Megahed, official spokesman at the Ministry of Health said.

Minister of Finance Mohamed Maait revealed that, in order to fulfil the presidential instructions to prioritise the health of citizens, especially those suffering from coronavirus, the health sector budget for 2021-22 has been set at LE275.6 billion of which LE3 billion has been spent on buying vaccines.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 19 August, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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The new board of the National Council for Human Rights gets a thumbs-up from MPs.

The House of Representatives General Committee has ratified the new list of members of the National Council for Human Rights (NCHR).

The 27-member NCHR will be led by Moushira Khattab as chairman, and Mahmoud Karim Mahmoud as deputy chairman.

Khattab, 77, served as minister for family and population between 2009 and 2011, and secretary-general of the National Council for Childhood and Motherhood between 1999 and 2009. She has held many diplomatic posts, including serving as assistant minister of foreign affairs, and ambassador to Czechoslovakia and South Africa.

In a statement on Monday, Khattab said the reconstitution of the NCHR comes at a very critical time, when Egypt is moving towards building a new republic.

The new republic requires a system for improving human rights that integrates the Egyptian Constitution, the implementation of international conventions on human rights and Egypts 2030 vision on sustainable development, said Khattab.

NCHR Deputy Chairman Mahmoud Karem is a former ambassador to Belgium and Japan (2000-2009). Karem served as NCHR secretary-general between 2010 and 2012, and was the coordinator of President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisis presidential election campaign in 2014.

The councils new board includes a mix of public figures, and includes prominent human rights and political activists; George Ishak and Nehad Abul-Qomsan.

Ishak was a founder of the Kefaya Enough movement which ptotested against the re-election of Hosni Mubarak in 2005.

In a recent article in El-Shorouk newspaper, Ishak called for a national dialogue on human rights and political freedoms in Egypt and argued there is an urgent need to amend laws on pre-trial detention.

Abul-Qomsan, who founded the Egyptian Organisation for Human Rights (EOHR) with her late husband Hafez Abu Seada, is currently president of the Egyptian Centre for Womens Rights. She joins the NCHR along with Cairo University political science professor Nevine Mosaad; Editor-in-Chief of Al-Ahram Weekly and Ahram Online Ezzat Ibrahim; journalist Mahmoud Bassiouni; lawyer and human rights activist Essam Shiha and Chairman of the Reform and Development Party Mohamed Esmat Al-Sadat.

Al-Sadat, a nephew of late president Anwar Al-Sadat and a former MP, is the coordinator of a national campaign that seeks the release of activists remanded in custody pending trial. He revealed that the speaker of the Senate had promised him that hearing sessions will soon be held with civil society organisations to address the human rights and media freedom files.

The appointment of the NCHR comes three weeks after Egypt declared a new National Strategy for Human Rights, launched on 11 September in the New Administrative Capital, in the presence of President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi. The strategy runs until 2026 and addresses political, economic, social and cultural rights; the rights of marginalised groups (women, children, disabled people, youth and the elderly), and education and capacity building in the human rights field. The strategy, prepared by the Foreign Ministry and a number of civil society organisations, also aims to amend laws on human rights.

MP Amr Al-Sonbati said the reconstitution of the NCHR represents the first step towards turning the new Strategy into fact on the ground. The council is entrusted with supervising the human rights situation in Egypt, releasing periodical reports, and recommending new legislation that can push the human rights agenda forward, he said.

MP Ayman Abul-Ela, deputy chairman of parliaments Human Rights Committee, argued that the declaration of the new National Human Rights Strategy and the reconstitution of NCHR reflects serious political will to draw up a new roadmap for political rights in Egypt.

The new make-up of the NCHR includes prominent figures with a proven record in defending human rights and freedom of speech.

Khaled Qandil, a member of the Senates Human Rights Committee, said the reconstitution of NCHR sends a message that Egypt is serious about respecting human rights and is taking concrete steps in this direction. While Egypt has been under pressure in recent months, and since Joe Biden became US president, to implement the agenda of radical Western human rights organisations like Human Rights Watch, the new Human Rights Strategy implements an exclusively national agenda.

MP Sanaa Al-Said, a member of the Egyptian Socialist Democratic Party, said the NCHR now includes a mix of professional human rights experts, opposition figures, journalists, lawyers and political science professors. The most notable thing about the NCHR board, however, is that it will be led by a woman who has extensive experience in the field and who maintains good relations with most international organisations.

The fact that new members of the NCHR come from different political backgrounds shows the state is serious about pushing the human rights agenda, continued Al-Said. She added that she is optimistic that the law on pre-trial detention will soon be amended.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 7 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Egypt has administered more than 23.3 million COVID-19 vaccine shots out of over 60 million doses delivered to the country so far, Health Minister Hala Zayed told a cabinet meeting on Wednesday.

Over 8.2 million people have been fully vaccinated with the two recommended jabs.

Minister Zayed explained that the total administered doses include 15.1 million initial doses and 8.2 million second doses since the start of the country's vaccination campaign earlier this year.

Vaccination providers have inoculated around 3.3 million public employees, in addition to 2.1 million in the pre-university education sector, and 1 million in the university sector.

The minister said that all but 1.2 million eligible registered employees and students at educational institutions have been inoculated, and that the ministry aims to vaccinate the remaining employees and students within one week.

The government has mandated coronavirus vaccination for all public employees, in addition to teaching staff, employees, and workers, as well as students who are 18 years or older at lower and higher education institutions.

Unvaccinated workers and students are not allowed into workplaces, schools, and universities, starting Saturday, unless they are jabbed with at least one dose of a vaccine or provide proof of negative COVID-19 testing more than once a week.

Also, public employees who are not vaccinated must provide proof of negative COVID-19 testing more than once a week at their expense or they will not be allowed into workplaces as of 22 November, according to a government decree.

As the country seeks to ramp vaccinations, Zayed said the health ministry is planning to increase the number of the vaccination centres from 1,100 to 2,002 by installing new camps at all public hospitals countrywide.

Egypt to produce 250 mln Sinovac doses

The minister also said that a deal was reached with China to increase the amount of locally-manufactured Sinovac vaccines to 250 million doses by 2023.

Egypt is locally producing around 40 million doses of the Sinovac vaccine under an agreement reached between Egypt's Holding Company for Biological Products and Vaccines (VACSERA) and Chinas Sinovac biopharmaceutical company in April 2020.

The Chinese company agreed to increase the supply of raw materials to Egypt by 2023, enough to produce about 250 million doses, Zayed said at todays meeting.

Zayed said the country has thus far received nearly 60 million doses of the Chinese Sinopharm and Sinovac vaccines, the British-Swedish AstraZeneca, the Russian Sputnik V, and the American Johnson & Johnson and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines.

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Egypts President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi affirmed on Thursday during a phone call with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson the need for the international community to continue to play a serious role in resolving the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) issue.

Egypt and Sudan have expressed the desire to continue the GERD talks under the auspices of the African Union to reach a legally-binding agreement, a demand endorsed last month by a UN Security Council presidential statement.

Egypt and Sudan have called for maximising the international role in endorsing the AU-sponsored negotiations on the GERD dispute, with Egypt calling such a role indispensable.

In his phone call with Johnson, El-Sisi highlighted the importance of reaching a balanced, fair, and legal agreement on the filling and operation of the dam, a statement by Egyptian presidencys spokesman Bassam Rady read.

This, El-Sisi said, should be achieved in a way that protects Egypts water security, ensures the interests of all parties, and preserves regional stability.

The president also underlined the need for all parties to show good faith and the necessary political will during the negotiations in line with the UN Security Councils presidential statement.

UN Climate change summit

During the phone call, El-Sisi and Johnson agreed on intensifying coordination between the two countries to ensure a positive outcome from the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).

The conference is scheduled to take place from 31 October to 12 November in Glasgow, Scotland.

This comes in light of the importance of the Egyptian role in addressing the climate issues on the regional level as well as Egypts endeavour to host the next round of the conference in 2022, Rady said.

Egypt has been selected as a nominee to host the COP 27, scheduled for November next year, as it is Africas turn to host the conference.

El-Sisi and Johnson also discussed a number of regional issues of mutual concern, Rady said.

They agreed on supporting the ongoing political path in Libya and the holding of elections by the end of the year, as well as the exit of all foreign forces and mercenaries from the country.

The two leaders also discussed encouraging British tourism to Egypt, which is attempting to attract foreign tourists to its resorts in the Red Sea and South Sinai.

Two million people work in Egypts tourism sector, which represents a big part of the national economy and is a main source of hard currency for the country.

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Egypts Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and Jeffrey Feltman, the US special envoy to the Horn of Africa, discussed in a telephone call on Monday the latest developments taking place in Sudan, the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.

According to the ministrys readout of the call, Feltman discussed with Shoukry the results of his visit to Khartoum  which ended on Sunday  following his meetings with Sudanese officials, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and Chairman of the Sudanese Transitional Council Abdel-Fattah Al-Burhan.

During the call, Shoukry stated that Egypt was closely following the latest developments in Sudan, adding that it is necessary to preserve the security and stability of the southern neighbour.

Earlier on Monday, a state of emergency was announced in Sudan as protesters took to the streets of Khartoum following the dissolution of the countrys ruling Sovereign Council and the government led by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok over political differences.

Feltman described what happened as a military takeover and said that the US is deeply alarmed by the situation and that any changes imposed on the transitional government by force may affect future assistance from the US.

Egypt has officially urged all Sudanese parties to exercise restraint and to prioritise national consensus, according to a statement released by the ministry. The Ministry added in its statement that it was following closely the developments in the neighbouring country.

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Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi announced on Monday that he will not be extending a national state of emergency that has been in place for the past several years.

"Egypt has become, thanks to its great people and loyal men, an oasis for security and stability in region. So, I have decided for the first time in years not to extend the state of emergency nationwide," the Egyptian president announced on Monday evening in a short statement on his social media accounts.

"This decision was in fact made by the Egyptian people over the past years through their honest and loyal participation in all development efforts," he added.

"As I declare this decision, I remember with all respect and appreciation our heroic martyrs, without whom we could not have achieved stability or security," El-Sisi said.

A nationwide state of emergency was imposed in April 2017 after two church bombings killed 47 people in Alexandria and Tanta. It has since been continually renewed for three months at a time in accordance with the constitution.

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Minister of Health and Population Hala Zayed on Tuesday suffered a heart attack in Cairo, Health Ministry Spokesman Khaled Megahed said

In statements to MENA, Megahed added that Zayed was moved to Cairo hospital to receive the necessary medical care.

The minister's health condition is stable, the spokesman noted.

1967-born Zayed was appointed as the Minister of Health in 2018.

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The passing of Hassan Hanafi a few days ago signalled the end of the life of one of the most important and influential philosophers in Egypt, the Arab region, the Muslim World, and I would even say of humanity at large, in contemporary times. However, his intellectual legacy will remain with us for many years and decades to come.

All over the world, many books, let alone articles and papers on various aspects Hanafis vast, deep and rich contribution were published during his lifetime, and many more are still expected. In this light I will confine this article to only one topic, namely his role in nurturing the culture of dialogue in diverse contexts, as well as his constructive endeavour to suggest parameters and shared assumptions on the basis of which dialogue might take place. I have in mind three examples of this, spanning more than half a century.

Starting in the early 1970s, in many writings including his book Religious Dialogue and Revolution, Hanafi called for a inter-faith dialogue aimed at rediscovering the progressive and humanistic dimensions in all religions, and thereby seeking to arrive at the common denominator among them  based on his comprehensive understanding of both Islam and Christianity, including hiswork for his PhD at the Sorbonne in Paris in the 1960s.

His argument is that, from such a perspective, believers in all religions would discover common ground. Justice and freedom constitute the main objectives of all religions. This exercise necessitates dialogue based on mutual respect and equality.

Such a stand was very progressive at that early stage, preceded only by the initiatives and efforts of the then Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Mahmoud Shaltout, on two parallel tracks, namely to bridge differences and create better understanding among Muslim sects, and simultaneously to seek common grounds with Christianity, based on an enlightened, open-minded and modern approach to religions in general and Islam in particular.

Towards the end of the 1970s and the beginnings of 1980s, Hanafi further developed his perception of the culture of dialogue and worked to promote it, this time among various philosophical and intellectual trends within the Arab and Muslim worlds. This vision was clearly embodied in several of his books at that stage, including The Islamic Left: A Project for Renaissance and Heritage and Modernization. Beside calling, in the framework of Islamic civilisation, for a synthesis between various schools of thought, each with its own points of strength and weakness, he argued for dialogue among conflicting ideological perspectives in the Arab and Muslim worlds at the time. He specified four intellectual positions, acknowledging that within each there were sub-ideologies with their own differences: Arab nationalist, Islamist, leftist, and liberal.

He called for dialogue aimed at finding what is common among them and focusing on points of strength. For him, Islamists had a claim to authenticity and speaking a language comprehensible to ordinary citizens, while Arab nationalists enjoyed the experience of post-WWII popular support; leftists were, directly or indirectly, behind the major socio-economic transformations in the Arab and Muslim worlds for their quest for equity and justice, and finally liberals were the champions of the post-WWI liberal era, with all its achievements in the way of tolerance, pluralism and diversity, the golden age for human rights and individual liberties.

Hanafis idea was that, in order for it to be fruitful, positive and constructive, the dialogue among those positions should start without any prior conditions, restrictions or exclusions. This call, at the time, corresponded to attempts in the 1970s to introduce some forms of political and cultural pluralism and expand the margins of individual freedoms in several Arab countries such as Egypt, Morocco and Tunisia, while other countries were already flourishing, whether in freedom of expression (Kuwait) or tolerating difference (Lebanon).

The third case in which Hanafi demonstrated his commitment to elaborating a culture of dialogue was the aftermath of the emergence of Samuel Huntingtons notion of a clash of civilisations and conflict of cultures. In response to that thesis, Hanafi published a number of books, studies and articles, including the famous two volume Dialogue among Civilisations and Cultures.

He was at the forefront of the call to deny the logic of threat and danger put forward by the proponents of the confrontationist and conflictual thesis. He also tried to undermine the arguments for superiority of one culture over others, arguing for one human civilisation throughout history, where at each stage of its development, a different culture had greater contributions, whether at the material or moral level, than others.

His efforts in this respect, in addition to roles of other Arab, Muslim and even progressive Western thinkers at the time, contributed substantially to a relative retreat and recess in the expansion of the thesis of conflict and confrontation, whether in the West or elsewhere, including in some cases the Arab and Muslim world, which came as an antithesis to Huntingtons argument. Hanafi proposed a synthesis, calling for dialogue based on reason, balance, mutual understanding and respect for what is common and what is specific. The other component of such proposal was the rejection of all campaigns mobilising hatred of the other and of difference.

Such a legacy will continue to enrich Muslim, Arab, Egyptian and human thought for a long time to come.

* The writer is a commentator.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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All nations pass through critical junctures when their fates hinge on vital decisions taken by their leaders. Unfortunately, the people inevitably bear the brunt of any mistakes, whether the decisions were informed and full of foresight or whether they were precipitous and narrow-minded.

The intransigent, short-sighted, and self-serving behaviour of the Ethiopian government has caused negotiations over its Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) project to fail for over two years running.

During that period, two major rounds of negotiations were sponsored by the African Union (AU), first under the chair of South Africa and then under the chair of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Before that, Ethiopia jettisoned the opportunity to find a solution made possible by the US under former president Donald Trump. A nearly final agreement was ready for initialling after 12 rounds of negotiations hosted by Washington from October 2019 to mid-February 2010, but then Addis Ababa failed to turn up for the last round.

Not only has the Ethiopian behaviour pushed bilateral relations with Egypt into the danger zone, but it also threatens regional security in the Nile Basin and East Africa, jeopardising maritime traffic in the strategic corridor for the movement of oil, commercial shipping, and naval vessels from the Gulf of Aden through the Bab Al-Mandeb, the Red Sea, and Suez Canal to the Mediterranean.

On top of this looms the spectre of spreading turmoil and its detrimental impacts on the Nilotic environment and its ecological equilibrium.

Cooperation between the three parties to the dispute over the GERD, Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia, is the solution, but the prospects should be as attractive as possible. Towards this end, I propose a collective and comprehensive regional development project called the Eastern Development Corridor (EDC) as a way of solving the conflict over the GERD.

In addition to its purpose of enabling the cause of collaboration to prevail over the sources of conflict, the project could serve as a model for the optimal management of a transboundary river in a manner that observes its geographical and ecological unity, conserves the riparian ecosystem, maximises the rivers potential, and makes its resources available for the benefit of all countries that share its banks.

This institutional mechanism would be an output of the trilateral contractual agreement on the GERD. Its first section would deal with the technical aspects of water-resource management, coordinating the operations of the various dams in the three countries, the system for the joint supervision of their operations, the composition and duties of resident observation teams at the various dams, the reservoir levels, the scheduling of refilling and discharge, the management of silt and run-off, and other concerns and arrangements. The second section would address joint development projects.

The EDC, which would be governed by the Blue Nile Basin Authority, could achieve major economic benefits for the three riparian states and also eliminate the sources of acrimony, alleviate tensions, reduce the risks of recurrent disputes, and promote peace and stability in the region as a whole. Ethiopia, a landlocked country, would have the additional advantage of a maritime outlet through Egyptian ports on the Mediterranean. Sudan, too, would gain. With the Nile at its heart, the multifaceted EDC would foster cooperation in energy production, overland and maritime shipping, passenger transport and communications, and other areas.

This broader framework for collective benefit would further the cause of collaboration and integration over the forces of division and discord. Indeed, the nature of this project is organically suited to its environment. River basins are complete, integrated ecosystems, and they should be treated as distinct geographical entities. It therefore makes sense to manage the Niles water resources collectively and to pursue holistic approaches to the development of this Basins agricultural, industrial, social, human and cultural resources and potentials.

The three countries that share the Blue Nile, namely Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia, stand at a precarious historical juncture. A solution to the GERD dilemma is now of the essence, and it involves reaching a mutually satisfactory arrangement based on a comprehensive vision of equitable development in conformity with established international law. Such a vision would guarantee Ethiopias right to development and Egypts right to its share of Nile water, which is to say its right to life.

Most immediately, the focus should be on the crucial question of the standards of construction of the body of the GERD and its water storage in coordination with the downstream dams in Sudan and Egypt. The scheduling of these operations should take into account the rivers hydrology, variations in flow, and cycle of drought seasons so as to safeguard the structural and operational wellbeing of the hydraulic installations and operations in Sudan and Egypt.

The tripartite technical teams that met in the negotiation rounds on the GERD in Washington came close to meeting these conditions. Moreover, the technology exists to develop the required formulas. Engineers are now able to test diverse scenarios and solutions using computer simulations to arrive at workable schedules and ratios for reservoir filling and discharge rates that ensure no country is harmed.

It is also not too soon to look ahead to the types of projects that the EDC could generate. The EDC infrastructure fund and its scientific research and development mechanisms would be the organisational and intellectual hubs for establishing and broadening the scope of regional cooperation. Already planners have envisioned an extensive electricity grid linking the three countries, making clean energy available to Sudan and Egypt for use in their industries or for export to Europe or the Gulf. Then there is the transportation and shipping grid: highways stretching from Ethiopia through Sudan to the Mediterranean and the Suez Canal Economic Corridor, and a 940 km railway from Ethiopia through Khartoum to Aswan, linking up to the Egyptian railway system.

The EDC and its subsidiary projects would not be short of potential funders. In addition to international financial institutions and donor agencies, China, for example, would most likely be interested in the framework of its Belt and Road Initiative, especially given how Beijing has been keen to strengthen its bonds with pivotal countries along its routes.

The Blue Nile Basin Authority could also look eastward for inspiration on multilateral cooperation projects linking countries in a transboundary river basin. One of these is the Mekong River Commission (MRC), which was formed to promote and coordinate the sustainable management and development of water and related resources for the mutual benefits of the lower Mekong countries and the peoples well-being, according to its Website. The MRC has initiated joint projects worth more than US$22 billion to serve the sustainable development of its member countries, which, in addition to China, include Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Thailand and Myanmar.

The proposed EDC for the Eastern Nile Basin countries conforms to the international trend to finance multipurpose projects that benefit more than one country. Moreover, the project could also expand to include all the Nile Basin countries.

Since the announcement of the Nile Basin Initiative, donor nations have been waiting for all the Nile Basin countries to come together in the Cooperative Framework Agreement, more familiarly known as the Entebbe Agreement. Unfortunately, only the upper riparian nations signed the agreement, preventing the emergence of a comprehensive agreement for Nile Basin water-resource management that would serve both upstream and downstream nations. As a result, potential donors have shied away. However, the EDC may inspire a solution from another direction and induce upper and lower Nilotic countries to bridge their differences.

However, Egypt and Sudan, on the one hand, and Ethiopia, on the other, must first bridge theirs. Now, at least, they have a good amount of time until the next flooding season in July to reassess their positions in the light of the experiences of previous negotiating rounds over the GERD. Hopefully, with the help of their international partners, they will then be able to put forward new proposals that will end the current stalemate and achieve the much-needed breakthrough.

A solution is possible as long as the parties concerned summon the necessary will and Ethiopia begins to act in good faith. Ethiopia must understand that it will not be able to reap the fruits of the development it expects from the GERD unless it considers the welfare of its downstream neighbours, Sudan and Egypt, and resolves to work together with them for the benefit of all.

It needs to shed its narrow, short-term blinkers and open its mind up to the vast horizons of possibility that would become available through cooperation. With resolve and perseverance, an Eastern Development Corridor could become a reality, ensuring the sound management of the Blue Nile and its resources for the benefit of all its countries and sustaining the River Nile as a source of life and growth for all.

* The writer is former assistant foreign minister.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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The focus was primarily on questions of national sovereignty, the forthcoming elections, removing foreign mercenaries from the country and other matters critical to the success of the current interim period. However, there is no denying that the conference was of symbolic importance. It was the first international conference on the Libya crisis to be held in Libya and it drew a high level of regional and international attendance.

A noticeable exception to this were Russia and Turkey, whose presence was weak to non-existent. Perhaps this was to be expected, as these two countries were mainly responsible for introducing the foreign mercenaries in question and have since ignored their responsibilities in this regard. In the Berlin-2 Conference on Libya, in June 2021, Ankara lodged a reservation on the fifth point of the conferences conclusions which stated, All foreign forces and mercenaries need to be withdrawn from Libya without delay, and the security sector reformed and placed firmly under unified, civilian authority and oversight. Moscow at the time voiced no objections in principle but it was concerned that the withdrawal of foreign forces should be coordinated to ensure reciprocal reductions. The Russian and Turkish presidents met subsequently in Sochi, on 29 September 2021, to discuss coordinating on Libya, where they support opposing sides.

Nevertheless, Turkey and Russia have made little if any practical progress on this matter, although pressure is building up on them. Evidence of this can be found in the strongly worded point of the conferences final communique rejecting foreign interference in Libya and attempts to violate the arms embargo and foment chaos. In addition, Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary Dicarlo told conference participants that the first group of the UN team to support the Libyan ceasefire monitoring mechanism had arrived. The team is also there to help support 5+5 Joint Military Commission (JMC) in implementing the plan for the withdrawal of foreign fighters. In her speech, Dicarlo alluded to the JMCs Action Plan for the gradual, balanced, sequenced and synchronised withdrawal of all mercenaries, foreign fighters, and foreign forces. The actual processes and mechanisms have yet to be finalised. The JMC met in Geneva on 6-7 October and then met with the Chairman of the Presidency Council Mohammed Al-Manfi and Prime Minister Abdel-Hamid Dbeibah on the fringe of last weeks conference.

Some of Libyas neighbours have voiced reservations regarding the removal of foreign fighters and mercenaries from Libya. Chad, in particular, is worried because Chadian rebels have been operating on Libyan territory and NDjamena does not want them back in Chad. Chads as well as Nigers concerns draw attention to other dimensions of the question of foreign fighters in Libya. Perhaps one such concern that has more directly to do with the east versus west aspect of the Libyan crisis is the relationship of this question to the Libyan militias which most foreign fighters were introduced to support.

Given the need to support stabilisation and security ahead of the elections, it is surprising that the 5+5 commission has focused so exclusively on foreign fighters and mercenaries, opting to defer the question of the local militias until after elections in the framework of reform of the military and security apparatus. Apart from the choice of terminology reform, which seems an attempt to tiptoe around the actual Libyan need to unify the military establishment, there are genuine concerns over how the militias might try to influence the elections. Some observers have argued that the militias could pose more of a threat to the electoral process than the foreign fighters. After all, the militias are governed by domestic political and economic factors and considerations of the domestic balance of power. In some scenarios, they could serve as a potential powder keg for factions fearful that the elections would not work in their favour.

The Libya Stabilisation Initiative Conference met with some scepticism among politicians in eastern Libya. Many saw the event as a propaganda tool for Prime Minister Dbeibah who is a possible contender in the forthcoming presidential elections. Others remarked on the absence of prominent representatives from Cyrenaica while yet others worried that political forces in western Tripolitania were scheming to side-line the eastern based House of Representatives on crucial issues, like the foreign fighters and mercenaries.

Interestingly, the day before the conference convened, there were reports of a dispute among organisers over whether or not to mention the date of elections which the interim roadmap has scheduled for 24 December. Critics of the conference cited this as the sign of an attempt to postpone the polls. In the end, the communique stressed the importance of taking the necessary measures to build confidence and create an appropriate environment for holding the Libyan national elections in a fair, transparent and inclusive manner on 24 December. Some believe that the rubric on confidence building measures and an appropriate environment were added as a kind of compromise solution. Others suggest that the date was included in the final draft of the communique under pressure of conference participants. It is believed that Al-Manfi played a central role in resolving the dispute after having met with the High National Election Commission (HNEC) and discussed various technical aspects with it. Al-Manfi has been described as the weight that keeps the scales balanced at this crucial juncture.

It should be noted in this regard that the controversy over the constitutional basis for the elections and the debate over whether or not to hold a referendum on the constitution before the elections have now been overshadowed by the High Council of States opposition to the electoral law adopted by the House of Representatives. For months, the Libyan Political Dialogue Forum (LPDF) had been deadlocked on the question of the constitutional basis of the elections, despite the attempts of the bridging committee to promote a compromise solution. Eventually, the House of Representatives acted resolutely and passed the necessary legislation so that the HNEC could proceed with preparations for the polls. The UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) breathed a sigh of relief at the Houses resolve and was disinclined to indulge more cycles of controversy when the Tripoli based High Council of State (HCS) and its representatives on the LPDF raised objections to the law on assorted procedural grounds. Like most other international and regional stakeholders, UNSMIL is determined that the elections should proceed on schedule. While it has been the first to foster dialogue, it is also aware there must come a time when debate needs to give way to action.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian took advantage of the Libyan conference to promote the Paris Conference in November. It is unclear what difference the conference is intended to make, apart from building up further momentum behind the aims of Berlin 1 and 2 and, now, the Stabilisation Initiative Conference. Perhaps it will focus on problems that might hamper the successful completion of the interim phase, such as lack of substantial progress in the withdrawal of mercenaries and foreign fighters. Or perhaps it will work on staging: smoothing over certain problems and ensure elections proceed on schedule so as to produce a new governmental authority and formally end the interim phase, even if the hope for stability remains elusive.

Ultimately, the Libya Stabilisation Initiative Conference was probably given a title bigger than it could live up to. In all events, the test will start soon, when registration for presidential and parliamentary elections opens next month.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Morocco will spend a record 23 billion euros ($27 billion) on public investment in the coming year to right an economy shaken by the coronavirus pandemic, the economy minister announced on Tuesday.

The government is planning to "mobilise public investment of 245 billion dirhams" (23 billion euros) during the 2022 financial year, Nadia Fettah Alaoui told reporters.

"It is a record figure -- crucial to put the economy back on track," she added.

That is a jump from 230 billion dinars in 2021.

Morocco fell into its worst recession in a quarter-century last year when the economy contracted by around seven percent because of effects from the pandemic.

But gross domestic product is set to grow this year by 5.2 percent, according to the budget plans, which project a 3.2 percent expansion in 2022.

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If there is a single message that the reader could come out with from reading Ahmed Al-Sayed Al-Naggars more than 300-page volume The Nile River: Myths, Rights, and the Egyptian-Ethiopian Struggle it would be the need for caution.

Al-Naggar, an economist with an interest in development issues, prescribes caution in managing Egypts increasingly scarce water resources, especially as they are getting scarcer.

He also calls for caution in managing the so far open-ended negotiations with Ethiopia on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), the mega-dam that Addis Ababa is building on the Blue Nile that provides Egypt with the best part of its annual water quota.

Al-Naggars book was published in Cairo by Al-Maraya earlier this year, as the negotiations that Egypt and Sudan, the Niles two downstream countries, have been following were entering into deadlock.

It contains few reasons for optimism over the negotiations on the dam, pointing out that they have got nowhere in the over five years since the three countries signed a Declaration of Principles in Khartoum in March 2015.

What Al-Naggar suggests in his book is in line with what several officials have been saying, either implicitly or explicitly, namely that Ethiopia does not seem likely to commit to an agreement with the downstream countries about the filling and operation of this mega-dam, whose operation is bound to have a negative impact on Egypts limited resources of freshwater.

This negative impact, he says, is not just a function of the amount of water needed to fill the dams reservoir, but is also the result of the inevitable waste that will come with evaporation from the surface of the reservoir and leakage from the body of the dam.

Al-Naggar explains at length his concerns regarding the Ethiopian position on the dam, especially in the third chapter of the book that discusses the GERD and Egypts options in managing its impact on its water resources.

He argues that Ethiopias style of crisis-management has been based on imposing its will on its neighbours, as it has done with Somalia. It has been trying to consolidate its regional alliances in case of a possible political showdown with the Niles downstream countries.

He also says that Ethiopias public position on the reason for building the GERD has changed repeatedly since the construction started in 2011. It is no longer talking just about a hydrological scheme or about one helping the country to overcome its energy shortage. Instead, it is now talking about agricultural schemes and more.

Egypt, Al-Naggar says, needs to revisit the attitude of accommodation it has shown to Ethiopia since the latter started to build the dam 10 years ago without an agreement with the downstream countries. Such an agreement should have been in place, he says, since Ethiopia is an upstream country on a transboundary river. Egypt should not now take options off the table, including the possible use of force, to protect its own survival, given the fact that its access to the Niles water is a matter of life and death.

Egypt should also reconsider its future plans to manage its scarce water resources, first by upgrading rationalisation measures, especially on the agricultural front, given that most of Egypts freshwater resources are used for agricultural purposes. Reconsidering the choice of crops grown, expanding agriculture towards the north of the country where water loss as a result of evaporation is less, and upgrading irrigation methods are among the ideas that Al-Naggar offers in his book.

He also offers ideas for regional cooperation with the other countries along the Nile River, especially Uganda, Sudan, and South Sudan in order to maximise the volume of water available. Cutting down on water losses upstream, he says, should be a priority for Egypt. Another priority should be for Egypt to work with Nile partners on joint agricultural projects.

However, he warns against too ambitious and overly costly schemes, including one that proposes diverting some of the water from the Congo River into the Nile, given their highly complicated technical nature.

In sum, Al-Naggars book is not just the work of an informed economist. It also contains a wealth of facts and figures to support the arguments presented. The book sums up the concerns felt by many people in Egypt over the future of the countrys water security.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Prince of Wales, Charles, and the Duchess of Cornwall, Camilla, will be visiting Egypt from 18 to 19 November at the request of the British government and will be received by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and First Lady Entissar El-Sisi on arrival.

The visit, the first overseas tour by a senior member of the royal family during the pandemic, will also include a visit to Jordan, a statement by Prince Charles office read.

During their visit to Egypt, the royals will also hold discussions with Al-Azhars Grand Imam Ahmed El-Tayyeb on religious harmony and the role of faith in protecting the environment.

This will serve to further strengthen religious ties between the UK and Egypt, the statement added.

Meanwhile, British Ambassador to Egypt Gareth Bayley explained on Monday that the royals will visit the sites of ancient and modern Egypt.

This visit is a strong proof of the importance of the relations between the UK and Egypt and consolidates our humanitarian links, Bayley said in a recorded video that the embassy posted on Facebook.

He stressed that the visit will be "historic" and will demonstrate our joint friendship and commitment.

The visit will review Egypts commitment to protecting the environment as Cairo bids for the presidency of the UN Climate Change Conference, which is set to be held in November 2022.

The prince has a deep and longstanding interest in these issues and will be taking the opportunity to discuss how we best work together to combat climate change, the statement added.

Egypt has recently announced plans to allocate 50 percent of the states new investments to green projects by 2024 as part of the country's vision to integrate environmental considerations and combat climate change into the overall development plans.

The visit, which will be Prince Charles and Duchess Camilla's first visit to Egypt since 2006, also underlines the countrys close relationship with the UK and highlight religious tolerance across Egyptian society as well as efforts to preserve cultural heritage.

Additionally, the Duchess of Cornwall will focus on womens empowerment in the country and will be briefed on the stories of Egyptian female leaders as well as matriarchs supporting their families.

Moreover, Prince Charles will celebrate the UKs support for efforts to protect cultural heritage by meeting a number of craftspeople and conservationists.

The prince will also meet with young entrepreneurs in Egypts private sector to discuss innovative businesses in the country and opportunities for adopting environmentally friendly practices.

The royal couple will then visit Alexandria to celebrate Egypts ancient culture, according to the statement.

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Egypt has recently adopted a series of procedures and policies to protect women against violence and allow them to take over top posts, the country's chairwoman for the National Council for Women (NCW) said on Tuesday.

In a speech before the United Nations Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) in Geneva, Maya Morsy reviewed the progress Egypt made to implement the articles of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW) in the past 10 years.

The NCW chief pointed to the prime minister's decision to establish the first unit to combat violence against women nationwide.

Egypt was the first Arab country to conduct the Economic Cost of Gender-based Violence Survey, which showed an increase in the rates of domestic violence by 19% and an increase in the rate of wives being subject to violence from their husbands by 7%, Morsy said.

She added that the 2014 constitution included more than 20 articles regulating the issues of citizenship, equality and criminalising violence and non-discrimination.

Since 2014, the representation of women in parliament has increased to 28%, in the Senate to 14%, in ministerial posts to 25%, and in the diplomatic posts to 56%, she said.

A woman, Faiza Abu El-Naga, was appointed as a presidential adviser for national security in 2014 for the first time in Egypt, Morsy said. Two women have been appointed as governors, a female has been named president of an economic court, and a woman was appointed as first deputy governor of the Central Bank.

She added that, for the first time, 109 female judges and prosecutors have been appointed in the State Council and the Public Prosecution last week.

The unemployment rate among women decreased from to 17.7% from 24% in 2020.

On women health, the chairman of the NCW said presidential health initiatives were launched for women, including one for the early detection of breast cancer and other diseases which reached 19 million women, leading to a decrease in the percentage of women suffering from the disease.

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Sudan has suspended all inbound and outbound flights until October 30, the country's civil aviation authority said Tuesday, following the unrest.

"All incoming and outgoing flights from Khartoum Airport have been suspended until October 30 due to the situation in the country," said Civil Aviation Authority Director General Ibrahim Adlan.

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Israel is sending an envoy to Washington amid a deepening rift with the Biden administration over six outlawed Palestinian rights groups, a Foreign Ministry official said Tuesday.

Israel last week designated the prominent Palestinian human rights groups as terrorist organizations, sparking international criticism and repeated assertions by Israel's top strategic partner, the United States, that there had been no advance warning of the move.

Israel's move marked what critics say was a major escalation of its decades-long crackdown on political activism in the occupied territories. The U.S. State Department has said it would seek more information on the decision.

Joshua Zarka, a senior Israeli Foreign Ministry official, told Israeli Army Radio the envoy would give them all the details and to present them all the intelligence during his visit in the coming days.

Zarka said he personally updated U.S. officials on Israel's intention to outlaw the groups last week, and said he believed Washington wanted a more thorough explanation of the decision.

The rights groups decision is emerging as a test of the relationship between the Biden administration and Israel's new government, which was formed in June by eight politically disparate parties. The coalition ended the 12-year rule of former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu's hardline government enjoyed broad support from the Trump administration, which moved the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, largely allowed settlement building to continue unfettered, cut funding to the Palestinians and presented a vision for the Mideast that sided with Israel's positions.

The Biden administration has mostly restored traditional foreign policy toward Israel and the Palestinians. But with the U.S. focused on other pressing domestic and foreign issues, the conflict was expected to take a backseat.

The fractious coalition government has also sought to minimize the Palestinian issue, agreeing not to make major moves that might threaten its stability. But in recent weeks, it has ramped up focus on the conflict, offering a number of goodwill gestures to Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and also pushing forward on building thousands of new homes for Jewish settlers.

Most dramatic was the decision on the civil society groups, which has rattled the coalition and returned focus to the conflict and Israel's decades-long occupation of territories the Palestinians seek for a future state.

Israel has for years alleged the groups' links to a Palestinian militant group but even under Netanyahu's hardline government, stopped short of labeling them terrorist organizations.

The announcement has outraged the activist community in Israel, which in recent years has also faced pushback from hardline Israeli governments. In a joint statement Monday, more than 20 Israeli human rights groups, including some of the country's leading, most established organizations, condemned the step, calling it a draconian measure that criminalizes critical human rights work.

The declaration against the Palestinian rights groups appeared to pave the way for Israel to raid their offices, seize assets, arrest staff and criminalize any public expressions of support for the groups. Most of the targeted organizations document alleged human rights violations by Israel as well as the Palestinian Authority, both of which routinely detain Palestinian activists.

The designated groups are Al-Haq, a human rights group founded in 1979, as well as the Addameer rights group, Defense for Children International-Palestine, the Bisan Center for Research and Development, the Union of Palestinian Women's Committees and the Union of Agricultural Work Committees.

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Protesters blocked roads in Sudan's capital with makeshift barricades and burning tires Tuesday as political crisis continues to grip the country.

The prodemocracy protests come a day after the military seized power in a swift coup widely denounced by the international community.

The takeover came after weeks of mounting tensions between military and civilian leaders over the course and the pace of Sudan's transition to democracy. It threatened to derail that process, which has progressed in fits and starts since the overthrow of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising two years ago.

The United Nations Security Council was to discuss the situation in a closed-door meeting later in the day.

Western governments and the U.N. condemned the coup and called for the release of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other senior officials, who were arrested Monday.

U.S. President Joe Biden's administration announced the suspension of $700 million in emergency assistance to Sudan.

Mariam al-Mahdi, the foreign minister in the government that the military dissolved, was defiant Tuesday, declaring that she and other members of Hamdok's administration remained the legitimate authority in Sudan.

``We are still in our positions. We reject such coup and such unconstitutional measures,'' she told The Associated Press over the phone from her home in Khartoum. ``We will continue our peaceful disobedience and resistance.''

Hours after the military arrested Hamdok, Sudanese flooded the streets of the capital, Khartoum, and other cities in protest. At least four people were killed and over 80 wounded when security forces opened fire on protesters, according to the Sudan Doctors' Committee.

The country and the world are now braced to see if more violence will unfold in the nation, which saw a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2019.

Some protesters remained in the streets of Khartoum and its twin city of Omdurman on Tuesday morning, with many roads blocked.

A bigger test of how the military will respond to the resistance could come Saturday when protesters plan a mass march to demand a return to civilian rule.

Troops from the military and the feared Rapid Support Forces patrolled Khartoum neighborhoods overnight, chasing protesters. The international group Human Rights Watch said forces used live ammunition against demonstrators.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken called for an immediate halt to violence against protesters and for the restoration of internet services. He said the U.S. was coordinating with partners to ``chart a common diplomatic approach to address these actions and to prevent them from leading to further instability in Sudan and the region.''

On Monday, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, the top military official in Sudan, dissolved the Hamdok government and the Sovereign Council, a joint military and civilian body created soon after al-Bashir's ouster to run the country. He now heads a military council that he said would rule Sudan until elections in July 2023.

Burhan blamed quarrels and divisions among political factions for the military takeover. However, the coup comes less than a month before Burhan was supposed to hand the leadership of the Sovereign Council to a civilian, a step that would have decreased the military's hold on power. In recent weeks, he repeatedly indicated he might not go through with that.

The general said he is serious about holding elections on schedule. But much could happen in the coming 19 months, and it is not clear if the military will be willing to release the grip it has had for decades.

Hamdok and others in the transitional government are still being held at a military camp outside Khartoum. Al-Mahdi spoke to the wife of one of those detained, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Khalid Omar, and said he was humiliated and mistreated during his arrest.

``They (military forces) took Khalid barefoot, wearing only his nightclothes,'' she said.

The Sudanese Professionals Association, a group of unions that was behind the uprising against al-Bashir, urged people to go on strike and engage in civil disobedience. Separately, the Sudan Popular Liberation Movement-North, the country's main rebel group, denounced the coup and called for people to take to the streets.

*This story was edited by Ahram Online

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Iraqi officials warned Tuesday of a drastic drop in the flow of water in a river from Iran due to low rainfall and dam-building in the neighbouring Islamic republic.

The Sirwan river begins in Iran, flowing to Darbandikhan Dam in northeastern Iraq before going through the rural province of Diyala and joining the Tigris.

"There has been an unprecedented decline," said Rahman Khani, the director of Darbandikhan Dam. "The water level has fallen by 7.5 metres in one year."

The drop was attributed both to low levels of precipitation and "the building of more dams in Iran which retain water", he told AFP.

Khani said the dam had this year received 900 million cubic metres of water -- a fraction of the annual average of 4.7 billion cubic metres.

The decline had led to a 30 percent fall in electricity production from the dam, he added, warning against the impact on agriculture in Diyala province.

The situation has prompted Iraq's Water Resources Minister Mahdi al-Hamdani to call on his government to file a complaint against Iran at the International Court of Justice in The Hague.

A foreign ministry spokesperson refused to comment on the matter.

Aoun Thiab, a senior adviser at the water ministry, said Iran was "violating international law by diverting a river flow" based on the 1997 UN Watercourses Convention on the use of water that cross international borders.

Thiab acknowledged however that seeking justice would be "a political decision and not a technical one".

"The waters of the Sirwan river have been completely cut off," he told AFP.

Iraq -- which relies on Iran for much of its electricity -- has suffered extreme water shortages in many areas in recent years.

This is owing in large part to upstream dam-building in Iran and Turkey, but also to factors relating to climate change and droughts, which have affected the wider region.

Iran has also suffered due to low rainfall, experiencing its own decline in water levels due to droughts, according to a report from the Iranian space agency cited by Mehr news agency.

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Queen Elizabeth II resumed public duties on Tuesday for the first time since spending a night in hospital last week, holding video calls with incoming ambassadors.

The 95-year-old monarch's overnight hospital stay, which royal officials said was for practical reasons following "some preliminary investigations", has raised fears over her health, given her age.

She has also been seen using a walking stick for the first time at a major public event.

The Queen, who is currently living at Windsor Castle, held video calls to receive new ambassadors from South Korea and Switzerland, Buckingham Palace said in a statement Tuesday.

She was shown smiling as she spoke on a screen, wearing a yellow dress and pearls.

Her last public event before that was a busy Windsor Castle evening reception for attendees of the government's global investment summit on October 19.

Doctors subsequently ordered her to rest and she cancelled a visit to Northern Ireland later in the week. She then went to hospital for tests and stayed overnight.

The head of state, who has been on the throne since 1952 and is Britain's longest-serving monarch, was said to be back at her desk on the afternoon of October 21, undertaking some light work.

She is due to attend events in Scotland next week for the COP26 international climate summit.

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Total investments by the European Investment Bank (EIB) in Egypt in 2021 are expected to reach 1 billion euros, according to the head of the EIB's Regional Representation to the Near East Alfredo Abad.

Abad spoke to Ahram Online on Tuesday on the sidelines of an event organised by the EIB as a part of the Cairo Water Week event, which kicked off on Sunday.

Abad said that Egypts government has a clear agenda on the development of projects in the water sector, especially in water management, sanitation and desalination in order to meet the needs of its growing population.

Water resource management is a critical objective of the UNs global sustainable development goals (SDGs) because it has a direct impact on all human activities, Abad said.

Clearly, Egypts government puts achieving the SDGs as a top priority, and Cairo Water Week is a reflection of that. The event is really an opportunity to raise awareness about the countrys efforts in this sector. The government has ambitious plans to continue its efforts in this regard and we support Egypt in all these efforts, Abad said.

Under Team Europe activities, Abad said that Egypt will benefit from two initiatives.

One of the two initiatives concentrates on integrated water resource management, and this is a key sector where we have financed more than 13 projects with funds amounting to 1 billion euros," Abad said, adding that "there are other six projects that are underway, particularly in wastewater management.

The other initiative touches on digital transformation and connectivity, including supporting clean transportation in Cairo and Alexandria, Abad said.

The EIBs current total portfolio in Egypt amounts to 7.5 billion euros in various sectors, including energy, transport, water, and the private sector.

During the event, the EUs Ambassador to Egypt Christian Berger said that Egypt is serious in addressing water challenges and asserted the EUs support for Egypts efforts in this regard.

Berger also referred to a flagship initiative that is currently under discussions with the Egyptian government to support the development process in the country.

Director of Lending Operations in the EU Neighbouring Countries at the EIB Flavia Palanza asserted the EIBs commitment to supporting strategic investments in Egypt in line with the EU New Agenda for the Mediterranean and the EUs Economic and Investment Plan, in coordination with national and European Partners.

Palanza also hailed Egypts first green bond issuance in 2020 followed by the second issuance in 2021, adding that this is an excellent example of spreading best practices and mobilising private funding, targeting in particular water consumption and coastal protection.

Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Housing, Utilities and Urban Communities Sayed Ismail highlighted Egypts efforts in water resource management.

Ismail noted that Egypt has made significant progress in providing access to both safe drinking water and sanitation services. The current coverage of safely managed drinking water sources in Egypt is about 98.7 percent (100 percent for urban areas and 97.4 percent for rural areas), while the coverage of safely managed sanitation services is at 66.7 percent (96 percent for urban areas, and 40 percent for rural areas).

On desalination, Ismail said that the government is currently implementing the first phase of a desalination plan launched in 2017 with the aim of producing 1.3 million cubic meters of desalinated water per day.

We have already completed 81 desalination plants with a total capacity of about 914,000 cubic meters per day, and there are 11 desalination plants with a total capacity of 465,000 cubic meters per day that are under construction. This is a total production capacity of 1.38 million cubic meters of desalinated seawater per day, he explained.

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The president canceled the extension of the state of emergency this week; an important step for Egyptians to be able to exercise the full range of civil and political rights. This was not only a demand of the January 25 Revolution, but it has been a top recommendation by many experts and advocates.

Some will still condemn this as a PR stunt to reduce pressure by the US and Europe for Egypt to improve its human rights record. They will say these are cosmetic changes.

Otto von Bismarck put it best, Politics is the art of the possible, the attainable  the art of the next best. This is how peace is made and how modern states are built.

In a world where compromise has become a bad word and finding common ground has become all but impossible, polarisation and political obstructionism have become the favourite tactic of many with "just causes" on all sides of most public debates across the word.

There are many root causes for the ever growing chasm. Social Media algorithms being a huge culprit as was pointed out by Frances Haugena, a Facebook whistleblower who recently testified in front of the US Congress. But putting the blame only on the shoulders of private companies absolves us from putting in the work needed to begin to build common ground in our public discourse.

The launch of the National Strategy for Human Right (NSHR) has been received with widespread praise in Egypt and viewed by many outside of Egypt with scepticism. Scepticism is healthy, but we have moved far past healthy scepticism. It has become a shibboleth to either criticise or praise every action by the Egyptian government, leading to two realities and two distinct narratives that are very antagonistic to each other.

Political polarisation is detrimental to democracy, both for developing and established democracies, and to any political reform agenda. In Egypt, one reality calls for a patient slow measured development process and views all calls for change and protest as irresponsible and dangerous. They value stability and maintaining the status quo over progress.

The other view believes any engagement with official channels is a betrayal of the cause and that any political demand can only be fulfilled with mass protests. The chants for revolution have become a drug for the masses. Like addicts they are always chasing the next high. They believe a dismantling of the status quo is only the acceptable way forward.

And in the middle a lot of people are left behind trying to get things done on the ground in Egypt, having to navigate a political minefield of a battle fought and decided years ago. They are viewed with suspicion by both sides, and constantly attacked as being both too progressive and not progressive enough. They knowingly embrace the art of the next best thing.

In 2016, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi launched Sustainable Development Strategy (SDS): Egypt Vision 2030. While the strategy mentions economic, social, and political rights under the fifth pillar for social justice, there were no clear key performance indicators (KPI) listed that reference human rights. With the launch of the NSHR, the Egyptian government has brought civil and political rights to the forefront of national discourse.

Since the launch of the NSHR, most comments have revolved around the public relations angle as part of Egypt's international relations strategy. Very few pundits, however, have deconstructed the strategy or commented about its specific targets.

The strategy in itself is not the end, but simply a means. It is a political document that needs to be viewed within a greater context. It may not meet lofty goals for our beloved Egypt, but it does expand what is possible and attainable.

This month, Moshira Khattab and Mohamed Anwar El-Sadat, nominees for the National Council for Human Rights, visited Washington DC and met with US officials, civil society, and Egyptian expats. Many people condemned the visit as an attempt by the Egyptian government to put lipstick on a pig, going as far as condemning those who met with the delegation. But in politics, optics are an important motivator for action. Viewed within this context, this mission could be a way to raise the bar for what is possible by providing the right optics for the implementation of the NSHR.

Since the launch of the NSHR, the government has taken steps to demonstrate that the implementation of the strategy is not only possible, but attainable. It has released more detainees without imposing new charges. The courts have dropped charges against some NGOs in Case 173 of 2011, lifting travel bans and unfreezing assets on some individuals. While many of these actions took place prior to the launch of the strategy, the pace of this activity has increased.

More importantly, human rights is no longer a taboo topic. Improving the human rights situation has become a topic for discussion not only by the president, but by officials and Egyptian media. This change should not be undersold. In a recent comments on Egyptian TV, the president clearly stated that all Egyptians deserve human rights and admitted that there have been violations in this regard. This is a significant shift in the tone of the discourse around human rights. Most significant is the public recognition that we need to improve the human rights situation.

The end of the state of emergency is not an inconsequential step in improving the rule of law in Egypt. The legal implication of this is yet to be fully understood, but the optics of this step is a foundation for shifting the rights discourse away from a national security framework.

It is the role of watchdog groups to call for greater reforms and protections, and as such they are an important component of society. However, we need more people willing to work in the middle ground, more people willing to work on the next best thing.

Nadine Wahab is a human rights advocate and former director of the Arab Centre for the Promotion of Human Rights.

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The management of the 28th Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre (CIFET) revealed a list of plays to be performed within its upcoming edition scheduled to take place between 14 and 19 December.

The official competition will showcase 16 performances, two from Egypt and 14 international plays. They include Antigone (Greece), Mami Wata (UK), An Ordinary Day in the Life of the Dancer Gregor Samsa (Italy-Denmark), Caligula (Ukraine), Deals With God (Germany), Maria Zaitun (Indonesia), 970 (Palestine), The Last Comedy (UAE), Complete Silence (Bahrain), The Pig (Saudi Arabia), The City Is Mine (Morocco), The Eagle Regains His Wings (Sudan), The Birds Logic (Tunisia), Amedia (Kuwait), in addition to Egyptian entries: Defile by the Egyptian Modern Theatre Dance Company and Gemini produced by the General Authority of Cultural Palaces.

The out-of-competition segment will present Love Tronics produced by Ezzat Ezzat Contemporary Dance Studio and The Guaranteed Way to Get Rid of Stains by the Black and White art troupe.

CIFET's door for plays submissions from Egyptian, regional and international troupes was open until 30 August and a total of 285 performances  118 from Egypt and 167 from international troupes  showed their interest to participate.

The committee in charge of choosing the international plays was chaired by Dina Amin, a stage director and Associate Professor of Theatre at American University in Cairo, joined by the Egyptian artists, Latifa Fahmy and Ahmed Mokhtar, and the American scenographer John Howe.

The Egyptian plays were viewed by theatre critics and directors, such as Aida Allam, Rania Fathallah, Mohamed Samir Elkhatib, Ayman El-Khashab, Bassem Sadek, Mohamed Al-Ruby and Hisham Atwa.

Founded in 1988, the Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre was taking place annually on the first days of September. However, it was interrupted by the January 2011 Revolution and the many changes that took place in Egypt's artistic scene in the following years.

After a five-year hiatus, the festival was back in 2016 with its 23rd edition and a new name: the Cairo International Festival for Contemporary and Experimental Theatre (CIFCET) and continued until 2019, a period that saw the festival drop its competitive character and focus on presenting a limited number of local and international plays.

In its 27th edition (2020), the CIFET's president Alaa Abdel Aziz reinstated the event's competitive character and its original name: Cairo International Festival for Experimental Theatre.

Due to the global pandemic, the 27th CIFET was limited to local live performances by Egyptian troupes and international online plays.

The festival's 28th edition to take place in December is presided over by Gamal Yakout. The artistic directors are Mohamed Abdelrahman El-Shafei and Saeed Kabeel.

For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture

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Death penalty to aide

AN EGYPTIAN criminal court on Monday sentenced Bahaa Kishk to death for terrorism crimes. Two other defendants, Mohamed Fathi and Mohamed Morgan, also received death sentences.

The ruling was passed after Grand Mufti Shawki Allam gave his approval for the death sentences. The opinion of the mufti should be given in such cases although it is not binding.

Kishk, a top aide to Hisham Ashmawi, was handed over to Egypt, along with Ashmawi by the Libyan army in May 2019.

Ashmawi, a former army officer who joined Al-Qaeda, was handed two death sentences after being convicted of orchestrating several deadly high-profile attacks against security forces and was executed by hanging in March 2020.

The prosecution charged Kishk and the two other defendants with leading the Al-Qaeda-aligned Al-Murabitoun group along with Ashmawi and financing a terrorist organisation with arms, ammunition, and explosives.

The ruling is not final and can be appealed.

Name the new capital

THE ARMED Forces Engineering Authority announced on Sunday a contest proposing names, logos, and slogans for the New Administrative Capital with all citizens eligible to participate. The new capital, which started being built in 2015 over 170,000 feddans, is scheduled to open by the end of this year.

More than 50,000 government officials and employees are due to be relocated there. The New Capital, located 50 kilometres east of Cairo, is set to host all ministries, parliament, and governmental institutions as well as residential units and services for 6.5 million people.

Initially, the cost was estimated at $45 billion. The Engineering Authority invited Egyptians to send their proposals to choose a name and a slogan for the new capital, as well as an innovative logo and visual identity, according to a statement by the Ministry of Defence.

The deadline for submitting proposals is 18 November.

A jury of renowned experts, intellectuals, and writers will study the proposals. Winners are promised a cash prize.

Arab interconnection

MINISTER of Electricity and Renewable Energy Mohamed Shaker announced on Friday that Egypt seeks to become a central hub for electrical interconnection between Arab countries.

Shakers statements came during a high-level meeting with Arab ministers of electricity and energy and senior officials from the World Bank Group.

During the meeting, the Egyptian delegation reviewed governmental steps taken in this regard and efforts made to promote investment in energy.

Shaker explained that Egypt was greatly interested in serving as a pivotal centre for energy exchange between Arab countries given the great production of electricity and the inauguration of giant transformer stations.

According to Shaker, the state has succeeded in electrical interconnection with Jordan, Libya and Sudan and has signed award contracts with Saudi Arabia.

Egypt is currently working to take steps towards interconnection with Europe through Cyprus and Greece.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Gearing up to host COP27 next year, Egypt will participate in the UKs 26th Climate Change Conference armed with initiatives and success stories.

Glasgow is preparing to host 197 countries in the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in November amid international fears of the devastating repercussions of climate change. It is imperative, the world agrees, the conference comes up with decisive recommendations.

Meanwhile, Egypt is gearing up to host COP27 next year.

One of the current challenges is to hold global warming to below 1.5C, said the UK governments climate chief Alok Sharma, who is leading COP26. Sharma told the media that carbon emissions should be reduced by 45 per cent by 2030. The $100 billion industrial countries pledged to pay towards this end are no longer enough, he added, pointing out that trillions of dollars are needed annually for this purpose.

In any case, the industrial countries paid only $79 billion. Three-quarters of the sum in 2018 was paid in the form of repayable loans, which puts more chips on the shoulders of poor countries.

The world is pinning high hopes on COP26, especially amid the coronavirus challenges and countries demands to work on zero-emission measures, said Yasmine Fouad, the Egyptian minister of environment. Egypt and the UK co-chaired a coalition on climate adaptation and resilience at the 2019 Climate Change Summit, called for by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly meetings in New York.

The issue of resilience and adaptation is of utmost importance for developing countries, given that they are the most affected by the impact of climate change. Seven initiatives on resilience and adaptation have been prepared and they are ready to be implemented once the funding is available. The most important of these is the African Energy Initiative announced by President Abdel-Fattah Al-Sisi, Fouad said.

She stated that Egypt had taken several steps to mitigate the effects of climate change, such as the interactive map that identifies the areas most vulnerable to climate change threats to prevent urban expansion. The minister of water resources and irrigation is also working on the same path, she added. Egypt acquired a $34 million grant to build dams in Rosetta, Kafr Al-Sheikh, and the North Coast to meet the challenge of increases in sea levels. Fouad said COP27 will be a good opportunity to receive more funds to counter the dangers of climate change.

Egypt has put in place criteria to choose the COP27 Climate Action Champion, a person who is responsible for mobilising stronger and more ambitious climate action, Fouad stated. The country is also encouraging the business community to do more for the environment while incentivising investment in the field. It is also applying mechanisms to attract the private sector to chip in. The prime minister is the head of the National Council of Climate Change, she noted.

A national strategy for climate change and another for adaptation have been drafted, the private sector, youth, and civil society are taking part and innovative measures to confront climate change repercussions have been taken, she added. The link between climate change, biodiversity, and desertification was one of the important points that Egypt was keen to highlight during its presidency of the COP14 of the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Furthermore, Egypt is pursuing its efforts to support the African continent in climate negotiations and the Paris Agreement, and to come up with the two African initiatives for adaptation and renewable energy, Fouad said, noting that the African initiative for renewable energy is an ongoing project.

The minister stated that Egypt is expressing its appreciation for the African Union and African Commission for their support of Egypt in holding COP27  Egypt being the representative of Africa. The country is well aware of the challenges Africa is facing to reduce carbon emission, she said, pointing out that COP27 is a chance to support African demands and to help the continent acquire the needed funds to implement adaptation plans.

At COP26, Egypt will present its success story in expanding in renewable energy, Fouad continued.

Emadeddin Adli, head of the Egyptian Forum for Sustainable Development, said civil society organisations always seek to partner with the government in efforts to combat climate change. There are many models, activities, and initiatives that are implemented in cooperation with the government to protect the environment and avoid the negative effects of climate change, he added, stressing that Egypt is determined to effect radical transformation on the issue of climate change.

Egypt and Africas carbon emissions are estimated at less than five per cent of global emissions, the majority of which are produced by the US, Japan, and Europe, Adli said. Emissions affect the worlds water and food security so Egypt places great priority in adapting to climate change, which may cause a number of challenges, such as drought as a result of the lack of rain  and water in general with the increase in population  the increase in the salinity of the earth, and the rise in sea level, which affects a large part of the Delta and agricultural lands, he explained.

Magdi Allam, advisor to the World Climate Programme and secretary-general of the Union of Arab Environmental Experts, said temperatures are expected to rise by 1.5C by 2025. Developing countries are paying the price of Europes industrial progress, Allam said, adding that the periodic meetings on the climate change agreement, to which Egypt and a large number of countries are signatory, submit annual reports on climate change.

River deltas are witnessing a rise in sea water levels following the melting of ice in the Arctic, which increases the salinity of agricultural lands and water, resulting in water logging, Allam said, explaining that 20 per cent of Egypts Delta coasts have been affected by the rise in sea level and the increase of water salinity. A $300 million project by the Coast Protection Authority and the Ministry of Irrigation is being implemented to counter erosion and the rise of Mediterranean Sea water above the Delta surface.

It is expected that sea levels will rise above ground level by 50cm the world over in the near future, Allam warned.

It is taking Egypt $30 billion to fix the irrigation system in Egypt and counter climate change repercussions, he stated, pointing out that Egypt spent $750 million to deal with the effects of climate change.

Industrial countries heated the surface of the earth and the atmosphere and created a hole in the atmosphere that is difficult to mend, Allam stated. The only solution is to reduce carbon emissions that are produced by 20 leading industrial countries. The European Union is the only committed bloc. The US, China, India, and Russia are still producing emissions that increase global warming.

Ahmed Kamal Abdel-Moneim, executive director of the Environmental Compliance and Sustainable Development Office at the Egyptian Federation of Industries, said the office and federation are taking part in COP26. The office will hold an event on 3 November, on the sidelines of the summit, with representatives of the private sector, to present their success stories.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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After US President Joe Bidens remarks on the US commitment to Taiwan earlier this month, the administrations reassurances to China have been very welcome

In a CNN town hall meeting on 21 October hosted by the US networks correspondent Anderson Cooper, US President Joe Biden said that the US has a commitment to do that in answer to a question on whether Washington would come to the defence of Taiwan if China attacked it.

China, Russia, and the rest of the world know that we have the most powerful military of the worldWhat you have to worry about is whether or not they are going to engage in activities that will put them in a position where they make a serious mistake, Biden said.

The following day, on 22 October, Spokesperson of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Wang Wenbin invited the US to be cautious with words and actions on the question of Taiwan.

When it comes to issues related to Chinas sovereignty and other core interests, there is no room for China to compromise or make concessions, and no one should underestimate the strong determination, firm will, and strong ability of the Chinese people to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, he said.

He reaffirmed the Chinese position that Taiwan is an inalienable part of Chinas territory and described the issue of Taiwan as a purely domestic Chinese affair that allows no foreign intervention.

In an exercise of damage control White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters on 22 October that there had been no shift in the official US position regarding Taiwan and that the US president in his answer to Coopers question the previous day was not announcing any change in [US] policy. She added that nor has he made a decision to change our policy.

On the same day, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin attending a NATO ministerial meeting in Brussels told reporters that nobody wants to see cross-strait issues come to blows, certainly not President Biden, and there is no reason that it should. He also signaled US solidarity with Taiwan by affirming that the US would continue to help Taiwan with the sorts of capabilities that it needs to defend itself, and so will stay focused on those things.

The most reassuring US statement intended to calm Chinese concerns came from State Department Spokesperson Ned Price in his press briefing on 22 October, when he said that the president was not announcing any change in our policy, and there is no change in our policy. The United States defence relationship with Taiwan is guided by the Taiwan Relations Act. We will uphold our commitment under the Act, we will continue to support Taiwan self-defence, and we will continue to oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo.

He reiterated the official US position in the context of its four-decade-old One-China Policy, namely that the US would consider any effort to determine the future of Taiwan by other than peaceful means as a threat to the peace and security of the Western Pacific and of grave concern to the United States.

The Taiwan Relations Act was passed by the 96th Congress in March 1979 and enacted as Law 96-8 by former president Jimmy Carter on 10 April 1979. It declares that the policy of the US is to preserve and promote extensive, close, and friendly commercial, cultural, and other relations between the people of the US and the people of Taiwan, as well as the people of the China mainland and all other peoples of the Western Pacific region.

It further states that the decision to establish diplomatic relations between the US and China rests upon the expectation that the future of Taiwan will be determined by peaceful means and that any effort to determine the future of Taiwan by other than peaceful means, including boycott or embargoes, is considered a threat to the peace and security of the Western Pacific area and of grave concern to the United States.

It stipulates that the US shall provide Taiwan with arms of a defensive nature and shall maintain the capacity of the US to resist any resort to force or other forms of coercion that would jeopardise the security or social or economic system of the people of Taiwan.

Since the law was enacted in 1979, successive US administrations have adhered to what has come to be known among strategists and military planners as a policy of strategic ambiguity. But the answer given by Biden at last Thursdays town hall meeting concerning the US reaction were China to attack Taiwan has raised doubts about the continuing validity of the Taiwan Relations Act to the changing strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific region in general and in the context of the increasingly adversarial relationship between the US and China.

The damage control that the Biden administration quickly initiated was meant to reassure the Chinese.

Such reassurance came at the right time. On 12 October, the Chinese military warned of its determination to crush any attempt to separate Taiwan from mainland China after it carried out beach landings and assault drills in Chinas Fujian Province, which is directly across the Taiwan Strait from Taiwan.

Military analysts believe that recent flyovers by the Chinese Air Force indicate that the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) could easily send warplanes to the southern and eastern parts of Taiwan. It is interesting to note in this context that the Chinese Air Force has flown nearly 150 warplanes into Taiwans air identification zone this month.

The Wall Street Journal reported earlier this month that the Pentagon has sent two dozen personnel from special operations forces to Taiwan to conduct secret training operations. According to the US newspaper, these forces have been on the island for at least a year. Taiwanese Defence Minister Chin Kuocheng told his nations parliament this month that China could be ready for a full-scale invasion of Taiwan by 2025.

Such sabre-rattling from all parties does not serve peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region. The keys to maintaining security in this region are that no unilateral actions should be taken to reunify Taiwan with the mainland and there should be no use of force to bring about such reunification. It was reassuring to hear Chinese President Xi Jinping expressing his wish for the peaceful reunification of mainland China and Taiwan on 11 October during the commemoration of the 110th anniversary of the fall of the last dynasty to rule China.

The re-affirmation by senior US officials of the US commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act is more than welcome. A strategic miscalculation in the Strait of Taiwan would not serve the national interests of the powers vying for influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

* The writer is former assistant foreign minister.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Our media sometimes truly amazes. A case in point was how reporters outraced each other to present the outfits worn by the actresses participating in El Gouna Film Festival, enthusing in exhaustive detail over the couture and couturiers, while ignoring the activities of the festival itself. There was no coverage of the films being screened, the seminars and exhibits organised, or even the presentation of awards. Then, after it was over, the press criticised the event for having more in common with a fashion show than an international film festival. This seemed indicative of something pathological, perhaps a form of schizophrenia. Was this not a case of a split personality: a press that raves over the texture, cut and drape of the actresses dresses one minute, then rails against fashion the next?

El Gouna Film Festival (14-22 October) screened dozens of Arab and foreign films. Some were premiers while others had taken part in international film festivals abroad. I scoured our press in search of reviews but could find practically nothing. True, some articles gave pause to the Egyptian film, Feathers, which won the critics award in Cannes and was screened for the first time in Egypt at Gouna. But what sparked interest was not its plot or artistic merit nor, indeed, anything about the film at all, but rather that Inji Kiwan turned heads with her appearance in the movie theatre in a short dress and a scarf on her head  besides the fact that some actors apparently did not like the film and walked out before it was over.

There is nothing wrong, of course, about informing the public that such and such an actress had attended the film, regardless of whether or not we had heard of her before, or how long her dress was, or else that some audience members walked out. After all, the job of the media is to inform, is it not? But what of the film itself? What about the subject matter that some audience members seemed to have disapproved of? Why did it receive an award at Cannes? What was the artistic vision of the films director, Omar Al-Zohairy, with whom no reporter conducted an interview that I could find? Why was our media so reluctant to give space to such well known film critics as Tarek Al-Shinawi, Magda Moris or Khairiya Al-Bishlawi? At least film lovers and general audiences would have access to some professional insights into Al-Zohairys or other films in the festival besides knowledge about this or that actors appearance and fashion statement.

The festival featured a very important exhibit on the famous Polish director Krzysztof Kieslowski. It included posters inspired by his works on loan from the Museum of Film in Lodz, 50 photographs documenting his films, plus a documentary about his life and work. But if our media touched on this exhibit at all, it was only in passing. Kieslowski (1941-1996) acquired international renown for The Double Life of Veronique and his Three Colours trilogy. The British Film Institute ranked him at number two on its list of the top ten film directors of modern times. Surely, here was an opportunity for our media to introduce the Egyptian cinema going audience to the world of that director who won an Academy Award for best director and best screenwriter in 1995. Sadly, this was not to be. Our media opted to let dress length overshadow a director who was unknown to the general Egyptian public before the festival and remains so afterwards.

Instead of restricting its focus to American cinema, which has long dominated world cinema, the GFFs selection committee broadened its scope in order to bring the audience some of the best films world of cinema has to offer. Perhaps it was in this spirit that the festival brought us the Finnish film, The Blind Man Who Did Not Want to See Titanic. The film, Titanic, is one of the icons of American cinema. Might our media have found something of symbolic significance to discuss here? The film itself won the Audience Award at the 2021 Venice Film Festival, but that was not enough to spark the journalists attention.

What a relief it was, after a long and arduous search, to find a single article on one of the seminars arranged by the festival organisers. It was on Film as an Instrument of Social Change and brought together filmmakers from Egypt and abroad. But what about the festivals other diverse activities?

The Egyptian media coverage of GFF was not up to standard, to say the least. Readers and viewers learned almost nothing about the festival, its purpose and its activities apart from trivial superficialities. Though sad, this comes as no surprise given the above-mentioned schizophrenia that has afflicted our media recently, an ailment that drives it to cover things that normal media would not deem newsworthy while in the same breath pushing it to the opposite extreme  to the degree of appealing to the authorities to put a stop to it. Hopefully our media will manage to remedy this contradictory behaviour which hampers its performance before it covers major artistic and cultural events that have proven successful. With our respects to the participant artists and to their attire, maxi or mini.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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During a visit to Beirut in the aftermath of the 16-year civil war, I suggested to my Lebanese friends and colleagues that they should preserve some of the ruins along what they called the green line as a reminder for future generations of that devastating conflict. But the Lebanese on both sides of the line were eager to remove the remnants of warfare and return to normalcy.

In this way they inherited one situation they had grown used to, namely the confessional quota system of government, and another situation they were not yet familiar with, namely the state within the state consisting of Hizbullah and its allies. The latter has its own army and its own foreign relations, and takes its cues from Iran on matters of war and peace and obstructing government. Such were the recipes for uncalculated wars and involvement in other peoples civil wars. Then the Covid-19 pandemic struck, followed by a grassroots uprising demanding the establishment of a non-sectarian state. On top of these came the explosion in the Port of Beirut and the demands for accountability which could not be pursued through judicial channels because of Hizbullahs determination to use its blocking power to hijack the courts. The upshot is that Lebanon finds itself on the verge of yet another civil war, as well as on the brink of an economic crisis of drastic proportions.

All this, moreover, is unfolding against a volatile regional backdrop, not just in the Levant. Not far away, the situation has flared up again in Sudan, which has its own considerable experience with civil war, to the extent that the country was partitioned into two. While the confessional quota concept would not apply to a government system in Sudan, the countrys regions and various ethnic groups frequently complained of an insufficient share in power and the determination of their own fate.

There, too, an intifada erupted. It concluded with a historic power sharing agreement between the military and civilians, giving the former sovereignty and the latter governmental power. Two years later, the new status quo is being challenged. This development is consistent with the Sudanese cycle whereby civilians fail to satisfy the people because of their lack of means and resources, so much so that the military steps in to save the state, and some years later, civilians rebel again. This time, the process is being led by a pro-military group that wants to be rid of the civilians in power and by another group that wants to complete the revolution and be rid of the military in power. Much has changed in Sudan during the past two years. More regions, from Darfur to other states in the east and the south, are ready to secede while relations between Sudan, as a whole, and Ethiopia are very fraught. Meanwhile, the rest of the world is preoccupied with other concerns, so events in Sudan and Lebanon do not take up much media space.

Perhaps Tunisia and Libya draw greater attention, if only because they are portals to the Mediterranean and therefore closer to the European sphere. In Tunisia, the tensions are kept under control thanks to a popular will, a sense of national identity and a president who has so far succeeded in striking a balance in the political management of the crisis. The Libyan situation is governed by an international and regional consensus on the need to hold presidential and legislative elections before the end of the year, which is not so far away. This does not mean that there are no hidden explosives in Tunisia in the form of the Islamist Ennahda Party which has been prodding the labour syndicates to mobilise in defence of a democracy that was unable to bring Covid-19 under control, to make the economy work or to keep terrorism at bay.

In like manner, the consensus over holding elections in Libya does not mean that the mercenaries and militias no longer present a danger or even that Libyan politicians themselves are fully committed to holding elections. Everyone smells gunpowder everywhere.

Iraq looks more positive. The national concord seems to have repelled the spectre of violence and the results of the recent elections have restored some balance that could pave the way to the emergence of a civil state. However, Iran still lurks next door and the pro-Iranian counterparts of the Hizbullah alliance in Lebanon want to retain similar veto powers in Baghdad.

The foregoing manifestations of tension and anxiety are in contrast to the climate emanating from the Al-Ula Declaration adopted by the last Gulf Cooperation Council, leading to the resumption of relations between Qatar on the one hand, and Egypt and the UAE on the other, and the rapprochement between the latter two countries and Turkey. As diplomacy melted the ice, embassies reopened, direct flights resumed and economic relations eased.

In addition, a decade after Syrias membership in the Arab League was suspended, there are signs it will soon be welcomed back. The Egyptian foreign minister met his Syrian counterpart on the fringe of the UN General Assembly inaugural meeting in September and pledged to help restore Syria to its place in the Arab world. On Sunday, the UAE announced that it would strengthen economic cooperation with Syria. These steps appear to have received considerable international encouragement, especially from the US. In 2019, Congress passed the Caesar Act requiring the US government to punish Syrian officials and entities responsible for human rights atrocities.

Yet the Biden administration does not seem so keen on enforcing it. After a single set of sanctions, it looked the other way when Abu Dhabi announced that the UAE was Syrias largest trading partner. Washington also supported the agreement Egypt recently entered into in order to supply Lebanon with natural gas even though the supply line passes through Syria. The State Department spokesperson said that the Caesar Act was an important tool, but that its use must be weighed against humanitarian concerns.

The most salient Arab initiative brought together Egypt, Jordan and Iraq. Their trilateral mechanism has progressed steadily primarily in two areas of activity. One has engaged Egyptian-Jordanian coordination in the management of the Palestinian question and the question of peace with Israel. The second involves multilateral coordination aimed at leading Iraq back to Arab ranks.

As we approach the second year of the third decade of this century, international think tanks see this region moving towards a reduction in violence, alleviation of tensions and a general trend towards reconciliation. The question, of course, is whether this is temporary or a more durable phenomenon indicative of a radical shift in the region as a whole.

Still, the states of tension in Lebanon, Sudan and Tunisia, the uncertainty surrounding Iraq, the perpetual powder keg of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, not to mention ongoing civil wars in Yemen and Syria all tell us to be cautious in our optimism. They suggest that the historical dialectic in this region is building up to a climax that could lead the region in one of two directions. The first is to further progress in favour of the profound reform processes in progress in several Arab countries striving to promote prerequisite regional stability. The other is backwards to spiralling tensions, reignited conflicts, the flying sparks and spreading flames that cannot be contained by borders or reconciliations. Without a doubt, extra vigilance, political acumen and wisdom will be of the essence.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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Egypt hosted the fourth round of the Cairo Water Week (CWW 24-28 October), which brought together a significant number of regional and world ministers, international non-governmental organisations with the aim of spreading awareness of water issues and promoting innovation to face water-related challenges.

While Egypt and Sudan, on one side, and Ethiopia, on the other side, have been engaged in fruitless negotiations for nearly a decade over the means to contain the damaging effects of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on the two downstream countries share of Nile water, Cairo has decided to introduce this dispute within the challenges facing the world in terms of water scarcity.

The regular convention of the CCW is Cairos way of warning against the dangerous consequences if the world does not pool efforts to deal with the challenges related to the most scarce and most important resource.

Egypt is located in one of the worlds most arid spots, and 97 per cent of its water resources come from the Nile. Over 100 million Egyptians also suffer from a wide gap between water resources and consumption. Egypts annual share of water per capita does not exceed 650 cubic m, which is well below the international threshold for water poverty specified by the United Nations at 1,000 cubic m. Meanwhile, Egyptians reuse 35 per cent of the water they consume to help narrow this gap.

While repeatedly stressing that all options remain open to ensure Egypts water rights, and Egyptians are united in their determination not to compromise a single drop of their share of Nile water, President Abdel-Fatah Al-Sisi confirmed Cairos intention to achieve that through diplomatic means, while maintaining the highest level of restraint and understanding of Ethiopias right to use its resources for development.

At the same time, and equal to all other strategic infrastructure projects the government has been building, Cairo has drawn up a four-pronged strategy to manage its water resources through 2037 at an initial cost of up to $50 billion. The strategy aims to regulate water use, improve water quality, provide additional water resources via establishing water treatment plants, and create a climate suitable for optimal water management.

In his recorded speech at the opening of CWW on Sunday, President Al-Sisi called for upholding the principles of international cooperation and solidarity in order for the world to overcome all water-related challenges. He called on the participants in the CWWs discussions to encourage riparian states to uphold the values of integration and participation, activate the rules of justice and equity, and not compromise the interests of their neighbours.

Mincing no words, Al-Sisi reconfirmed Egypts keenness to reach a legally binding and balanced agreement as soon as possible and without further delay on the long-standing dispute with Ethiopia on the GERD. The Egyptian people, he said, are closely following the developments of the GERD issue. And I would like to stress our aspiration to reach  as soon as possible and without further delay  a balanced and legally binding agreement in line with the presidential statement issued by the Security Council on 15 September 2021.

The agreement Egypt is seeking would guarantee Ethiopias development goals as well as limit the water, environmental, social, and economic damages of the dam to Egypt and Sudan.

The Security Council presidential statement, encouraging Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia to resume negotiations to swiftly reach a mutually acceptable and binding agreement on the filling and operation of the GERD, was not the best outcome Egypt and Sudan have been looking for. The two countries strongly pushed for a Tunisian-proposed binding resolution calling for an official agreement among the three countries, reached through the mediation of the African Union. Yet the presidential statement remained to be a united world message that the GERD dispute is no simple cross-border water issue, and could definitely pose a threat to international peace and security.

When the lives of more than 100 million people are at stake, the world cannot stand by watching only because one or two key world powers are worried that the Security Council should not turn into a body aimed at settling international water disputes. In the case of GERD, Egypt and Sudan have been negotiating in good faith for 10 years, and agreed on guiding principles with Ethiopia in 2015 to provide assurances that the dam project would not cause massive harm.

However, consecutive Ethiopian governments spared no effort to buy time without reaching agreement, while continuing on the ground the building and storage of water behind the GERD. Diplomatic talks, mediated by the AU, the United States, the European Union or the UN have all failed due to Ethiopias intransigence and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmeds domestic considerations. Ethiopia has repeatedly refused to sign such a deal and, instead, insists on mere guidelines that can be modified at any time at its discretion.

Egypt is ready to resume the tripartite GERD negotiations, but with international guarantees and in the presence of international observers. Relatively positive statements came out of Addis Ababa this week, stating that Ethiopia would not attempt to affect water flow to Egypt through the GERD. However, intentions are not enough, and no positive statements have meaning before they are translated into an agreement.

*A version of this article appears in print in the 28 October, 2021 edition of Al-Ahram Weekly

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The House voted Thursday to hold Steve Bannon, a longtime ally and aide to former President Donald Trump, in contempt of Congress for defying a subpoena from the committee investigating the violent Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection.

Steve Bannon talks about the approaching midterm election during an interview with The Associated Press, in Washington, Aug. 19, 2018. [File Photo: AP/J. Scott Applewhite]

In a rare show of bipartisanship on the House floor, the committee's Democratic chairman, Mississippi Rep. Bennie Thompson, led the floor debate along with Republican Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, one of two Republicans on the panel. Still, the vote was 229-202 with all but nine GOP lawmakers who voted saying no."

The House vote sends the matter to the U.S. attorneys office in Washington, where it will now be up to prosecutors in that office to decide whether to present the case to a grand jury for possible criminal charges. It's still uncertain whether they will pursue the case  Attorney General Merrick Garland would only say at a House hearing on Thursday that they plan to make a decision consistent with the principles of prosecution.

The partisan split over Bannon's subpoena  and over the committee's investigation in general  is emblematic of the raw tensions that still grip Congress nine months after the Capitol attack.

Democrats have vowed to comprehensively probe the assault in which hundreds of Trump's supporters battered their way past police, injured dozens of officers and interrupted the electoral count certifying President Joe Biden's November victory. Lawmakers on the panel say they will move swiftly and forcefully to punish anyone who wont cooperate with the probe.

We will not allow anyone to derail our work, because our work is too important, Thompson said ahead of the vote.

Republicans call it a witch hunt, say it is a waste of time and argue that Congress should be focusing on more important matters.

Indiana Rep. Jim Banks, leading the GOP opposition on the floor, called the probe an illicit criminal investigation into American citizens and said Bannon is a Democrat party boogeyman.

Cheney and Illinois Rep. Adam Kinzinger are the only two Republicans on the Jan. 6 panel, and both have openly criticized Trump and his role in fomenting the insurrection while the majority of House Republicans have remained silent in the face of Trump's falsehoods about massive fraud in the election. Trump's claims were rejected by election officials, courts across the country and by his own attorney general.

The Jan. 6 committee voted 9-0 Tuesday to recommend the contempt charges after Bannon missed a scheduled interview with the panel last week, citing a letter from Trumps lawyer that directed him not to answer questions. The committee noted that Bannon did not work at the White House at the time of the attack, and that he not only spoke with Trump before it but also promoted the protests on his podcast and predicted there would be unrest. On Jan. 5, Bannon said that all hell is going to break loose."

Lawmakers on the panel said Bannon was alone in completely defying its subpoena, while more than a dozen other subpoenaed witnesses were at least negotiating with them.

Mr. Bannons own public statements make clear he knew what was going to happen before it did, and thus he must have been aware of -- and may well have been involved in -- the planning of everything that played out on that day, Cheney said ahead of the vote. The American people deserve to know what he knew and what he did.

Joining Cheney and Kinzinger in voting to hold Bannon in contempt were Republican Reps. Peter Meijer and Fred Upton of Michigan, Brian Fitzpatrick of Pennsylvania, Anthony Gonzalez of Ohio, John Katko of New York, Nancy Mace of South Carolina and Jaime Herrera Beutler of Washington.
A suspect is in custody after two people were killed and four injured  including a police officer  in a shooting at a shopping mall Monday in Boise, Idaho, police said.

At a news conference, authorities said officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect. The majority of the mall has been cleared, but police were still looking for any additional victims.

Police close off a street outside a shopping mall after a shooting in Boise, Idaho on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Police said there are reports of multiple injuries and one person is in custody. [Photo: AP/Rebecca Boone]

Police didn't release any other information about the victims or the suspect, saying the investigation was ongoing.

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee said the shooting was reported to law enforcement about 1:50 p.m. on Monday  including a report that one person was shot and down at that time.

When the officers arrived, they spotted someone who matched the description of the suspect.

There was an exchange of gunfire that ensued shortly thereafter, resulting in the officer's injury, as well as the suspect being taken into custody, Lee said. He said investigators believe there was only one shooter, and there is no ongoing danger to the public.

We really cannot at this time speak to any motivation behind it, Lee said, calling any speculation premature.

I cannot stress enough how traumatic this event is for the community at large, as well as for those that were witnesses, or are the families of those involved or involved themselves, Lee said.

After the shooting, several witnesses stood in the rain outside the entrance to Macys  one of five large department stores at the mall  waiting to be interviewed by police or told they could leave. Patrol cars from several agencies, ambulances and fire trucks filled a section of the mall parking lot. Officers from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were assisting in the investigation.

About a quarter of a mile away, officers closed part of a road near a busy intersection so they could investigate a second crime scene related to the shooting incident. Officers at the second crime scene declined to answer questions about the investigation other than to confirm it was related to the shooting investigation.

Cheri Gypin, of Boise, was in the mall with a friend where they walk for an hour three or four times a week. She said she heard several large bangs, but thought something had fallen from the ceiling. Then about 60 people, including families pushing strollers, came running at them, some of them shouting that there was an active shooter.

My friend was trying to process it, said Gypin, 60. I just looked at her and said, Weve got to run. So we just ran and kept running until we got to the outer perimeter of the parking lot.

They made their way back to their car, where police told the crowd of people who had fled the mall to leave the parking area.

Investigators were working with hospital officials to notify family members of those injured and killed in the shooting, Lee said.

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean asked members of the public and the news media to give the victims and their families privacy as they deal with the trauma of the shooting. She thanked the law enforcement officers, first responders and others she said worked to keep the community safe.

Countless people found themselves in a situation they never would have or should have expected, McLean said, lauding the shopkeepers and others in the mall for reacting so quickly to take care of folks that were there. You showed in a tough and chaotic moment how much you care and what you're willing to do to support and care for strangers.
Smiling Brick Field Worker, a work by Ziaul Huque from Bangladesh, takes the 1st prize in the photography contest at the 4th Silk Road & Young Dreams event. [Photo Provided to China Plus]

Joy Of Harvest, a work by Guo Jiangtao from China, claims the 2nd prize in the photography contest at the 4th Silk Road & Young Dreams event. [Photo Provided to China Plus]

The Economy, a work by Mithail Afrige Chowdhury from Bangladesh, collects the 2nd prize in the photography contest at the 4th Silk Road & Young Dreams events. [Photo Provided to China Plus]

The Oasis, a work by Liu Lin from China, grabs the 3rd prize in the photography contest at the 4th Silk Road & Young Dreams event. [Photo Provided to China Plus]
KYODO NEWS - Oct 26, 2021 - 18:45 | All, Japan, Coronavirus

Over 70 percent of Japan's population has been fully inoculated against COVID-19, government data showed Tuesday, ranking the country among the top three in the Group of Seven nations after an initially slow vaccine rollout.

Of Japan's population of 125 million, 70.1 percent had received two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, according to the government.

The inoculation rate is now almost on par with Italy, which is second only to Canada, where 72.65 percent of the total population had been vaccinated as of Oct. 16.

G-7 members the United States and Britain, which were initially far ahead of Japan in inoculating their populations, have seen their vaccination rates slow after reaching 60 percent.

Among people aged 65 and over in Japan, 90.4 percent had been fully vaccinated as of Monday, compared with 60.8 percent of people in their 30s, 57.0 percent in their 20s and 47.7 percent of those aged between 12 and 19.

A total of 185.98 million doses have been administered in the country, with 76.7 percent of the population having received at least one dose, the data showed.
The request comes as a debate over economic stimulus has been heating up among political parties vying for support in Sunday's general election.

Economic and fiscal policy minister Daishiro Yamagiwa told a press conference after the meeting that the proposals will be reflected in an economic package that Kishida plans to compile if his party, as expected, wins a majority in the election for the House of Representatives, the powerful lower chamber of parliament.

The prime minister has vowed an economic package worth "tens of trillions of yen," or hundreds of billion dollars, to support the coronavirus pandemic-hit economy.

As the head of the panel, Kishida, along with 15 business leaders, researchers and his Cabinet, will discuss policy measures for economic growth and redistribution of wealth under his "new capitalism" policy.

The panel will focus on issues such as expanding the middle-class through wage hikes and improving working conditions for nonregular employees and freelancers, as Kishida pledged when being inaugurated as prime minister on Oct. 4.

The 15 members include seven women, differentiating it from the now-defunct growth strategy panel set up by Kishida's predecessor Yoshihide Suga, where just two women out of eight private sector experts were included.

Among the seven are Tomoko Yoshino, the first-ever female chief of the nation's largest labor organization Rengo, who took the post early this month, and Yumiko Murakami, former head of the Tokyo office of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

The panel aims to conclude discussions by June next year, in time for them to be reflected in its annual economic policy guideline for the next fiscal year, a government official told reporters.
By Ken Endo, KYODO NEWS - Oct 26, 2021 - 20:55 | All, World, Japan

Diplomatic bargaining over interests in the Pacific Rim has been intensifying of late.

Japan must make sure the country is heading in the right direction, when politics in the country are overwhelmingly occupied by the upcoming general election.

The Trans-Pacific Partnership free trade agreement, or CPTPP, recently relaunched with 11 members led by Japan, after the United States withdrew from the pact under the previous administration of former President Donald Trump.

The pact has been ratified by eight nations so far and entered into force in December 2018.

In Japan, the issue of deregulation in the agricultural sector was one of the major concerns when the country applied for membership. But since then, there has been little discussion on how to operate this forum.

The recent developments have changed the posture. In September, China and Taiwan filed applications to join the regional framework, and their actions are significant in terms of forecasting the regional order for coming generations.

As far as China is concerned, some commentators say the move will help preserve smooth economic activity, while others point at the political risks for Japan, which might be drawn into conflicts as it could be caught in the middle of U.S.-China and China-Taiwan standoffs.

At the same time, the situation can be considered a great opportunity for Japan to become the major player in shaping the Pacific Rim politics and economy.

Since Japan relies on the United States for security and has close economic ties with China, it hopes to have a good relationship with both countries.

Under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, however, China has been stepping up its oppression of human rights and cracking down on political dissent across the country, from the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region to Hong Kong.

The country's domestic policies, which violate people's rights, are also reflected in its conduct overseas in changing the status quo, such as its maritime expansion activities in the South China Sea.

It was only two years ago that a Japanese professor of Hokkaido University was detained in China while being invited to an academic exchange event in the country. It is not easy to build good relations with such a country.

Even after such changes, there may be many who argue politics and economics are different.

Since Japan's trade with China accounts for roughly 20 percent of the country's imports and exports, it is not wise to disregard the major growing market from the perspective of Japan's accumulation of its own wealth.

But China sometimes weaponizes mutual economic dependence, although the country benefits the most from the global free trade systems.

Australia's coal and wine as well as Taiwan's pineapples are effectively banned from the Chinese market just because their political stance is different from that of China.

Japan also faced the import suspension of rare earths, vital for advanced-technology products, from China in 2010, in a move of so-called coercive economic diplomacy.

Despite attempts by Japan and other parties to separate economics from politics, China itself combines the two.

Amid the Sino-American rivalry for supremacy, the United States has also reviewed its policy of separating economics and politics, which covers a range of fields including tariffs, technologies, and study abroad programs, bringing political conflict even into the world of culture.

On the backdrop of these contexts, the CPTPP ought to be re-evaluated as a framework to deal with some present-day issues.

The first is to stabilize free trade, which has often been obstructed these days. Considering China's history of blending economics and politics, it may be difficult to completely relinquish its coercive economic diplomacy. But we must at least make China aware that the practice is a problem and keep it at a minimum level in exchange for granting CPTPP accession.

Secondly, it may contribute to deflating U.S.-China tensions. The administration of U.S. President Joe Biden has already begun searching for ways to manage conflicts with China and cooperate in some fields including environmental issues.

Having the United States and China join the CPTPP at the same time is not a fairy tale. Beijing at times appears to long for an easing of tensions through the framework, while Washington was originally eager to lead it.

The United States apparently does not want the trade agreement to be dyed into the color of China, the world's second largest economy.

It is a wise policy for Japan to encourage the United States to return to the CPTPP, by looking at the U.S. political schedule, including the midterm elections in the fall of next year.

Thirdly, Japan would like to use this as a leverage to create the regional order it desires. Allowing a free and democratic Taiwan to peacefully coexist with China would be a matter of extreme importance to Japan, given the proximity of Okinawa and the Senkaku Islands.

Japan possesses political capital as it led CPTPP negotiations. China is on the side which needs to be admitted. It will not be able to join the pact if any member, including Japan, opposes it, and thus, Japan is in an overwhelmingly advantageous position from a political standpoint.

Japan has not much to lose either. Since Japan and China already signed another looser major free trade deal, called the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, or RCEP, their economic relationship will not likely hit rock bottom even if something goes wrong.

On the occasion of China's submission of application to join the CPTPP, Japan should encourage the United States to join the deal as well, and make efforts to include Taiwan in the regional economic order in cooperation with the United States.

I hope such seasons of diplomacy will arrive after the general election in Japan.

(Ken Endo is a professor at Hokkaido University's Graduate School of Public Policy. Born in Tokyo in 1966, he earned a doctorate in politics at the University of Oxford and was a researcher at Harvard Law School, and a visiting professor at Institut d'etudes politiques de Paris as well as at National Chengchi University in Taipei. He is also the author of numerous books, including "Togo No Shuen" (The End of Integration), and a commissioning editor of eight volumes on Japan's security.)
KYODO NEWS - Oct 26, 2021 - 21:39 | All, Japan

Japan's Princess Mako married her commoner boyfriend Kei Komuro on Tuesday, the Imperial Household Agency said, the union coming after years of controversy over a financial dispute involving his mother that led the couple to forgo traditional ceremonies associated with a royal marriage.

Princess Mako, a niece of Emperor Naruhito, abandoned her royal status and became Mako Komuro under a family registry with her university sweetheart as the agency submitted legal paperwork to register the couple's marriage on their behalf Tuesday morning, four years since their relationship was made public.

The newlyweds, both 30, appeared together in front of the press in the afternoon for the first time in about four years but only gave opening remarks and distributed written answers to five selected questions submitted by the media, instead of the usual press conference.

<READ GALLERY HERE: Portrait of lives of Princess Mako, her fiance Kei Komuro>

The decision was made as the princess, who has been suffering from a mental health condition following a string of media reports about the financial dispute, "feels a strong sense of anxiety" imagining having to answer questions verbally, the agency said in a sudden announcement on Monday night.

The princess said Komuro is an "irreplaceable" person and that their marriage was "a necessary choice," in her opening remarks to the press.

Amid accusations on social media that they are wasting taxpayers' money, the couple paid the cost of a hotel room for the press event themselves.

Many people remain unconvinced by Komuro's explanations about the money dispute between his mother and her former fiance, and feel uncomfortable about negative reports regarding the Komuro family, believing they are unfit to become relatives of the royals including Prince Hisahito, 15, the princess's younger brother who is second in line to the throne.

"If I have to pick the biggest concern, it would be continued libel" against the couple and their families, the princess said in a statement in answering one of the questions about possible worries for the future.

Princess Mako declined to elaborate on her new life with Komuro in New York, where she is expected to relocate. "What I would like is just to lead a peaceful life in my new environment," she said in the statement. Komuro works at a law firm in the city.

She forfeited her royal status as the Imperial House Law stipulates that a female imperial member must abandon her title if she marries a commoner. The agency will register her departure on the record of imperial lineage on Wednesday.

Following the couple' marriage, Princess Mako's parents -- Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko -- said in a statement that their eldest daughter's marriage was "unprecedented for the imperial family," adding they hope she will cherish the feelings she has built up over time and make a happy family.

The princess, who left her family's imperial residence Tuesday morning, and Komuro arrived in a Tokyo condominium after the press conference. They are expected to stay there while preparing for a new life in New York.

Wearing a light green dress and holding a bouquet of flowers, Princess Mako bowed several times to her parents and her younger sister Princess Kako as she left the residence in Tokyo at around 10 a.m.

The sisters hugged each other before Princess Mako entered a car and left for a Tokyo hotel to meet the press with her husband, while her family waved until she was out of sight. Some 10 agency officials were also there to send her off.

Prince Hisahito was not at the residence at that time as he attended classes at his junior high school.

Since Japanese imperial family members do not have passports, the princess needs to apply for hers as an ordinary citizen. She is expected to leave for the United States next month at the earliest.

In light of the controversy over the marriage due to the still-unresolved money dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance, a series of traditional ceremonies associated with imperial members' weddings were not held.

While female royal family members traditionally receive a lump-sum payment of up to around 150 million yen ($1.3 million) drawn from the country's tax coffers upon their departure from the imperial household, the agency said it has accepted Princess Mako's request to decline the payment.

Related coverage:

PROFILE: Princess Mako's groom Kei Komuro pursuing legal career in U.S.

PROFILE: Princess Mako known as independent, with in-depth knowledge of art

Chronology of major events related to Princess Mako's marriage

The unprecedented decisions came as Crown Prince Fumihito maintains the view that many Japanese people remain unconvinced by the marriage and therefore the traditional ceremonies should not have been held, according to the agency.

The couple's marriage has come under intense public scrutiny as Komuro has so far failed to convince a vocal section of the Japanese population how his family would resolve the dispute over 4 million yen, which includes money spent on his education.

Komuro said in a 28-page statement in April that he and his mother believe the money they received was a gift, but proposed making a settlement payment to the former fiance shortly afterward.

He said at the press conference Tuesday he will do "whatever possible" to resolve the matter and that he hopes the former fiance will receive the settlement money. Komuro's mother cannot accept the man's request for a meeting because of her mental health condition, Komuro added.

With tabloid magazines and TV talk shows obsessing over the issue, the couple and their families have been the target of constant criticism on social media.

The agency revealed earlier this month that Princess Mako has been diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder caused by what she described as psychological abuse the couple and their families received.

The couple met each other in person last week for the first time since Komuro left for New York in August 2018 to study at Fordham University's law school. He graduated with a Juris Doctor degree in May this year.

Komuro's return to Japan caused a media frenzy in late September, with his ponytail hairdo making headlines. Following further public criticism, he cut his ponytail off before visiting Princess Mako's parents at the Akasaka Estate last week.

Komuro and the princess met in 2012 as students at International Christian University in Tokyo and were unofficially engaged in September 2017.

Their wedding was initially scheduled to take place on Nov. 4, 2018, but the agency announced in February of the same year the postponement of ritual ceremonies following reports about the financial dispute.

Related coverage:

FOCUS: Princess Mako's marriage casts shadow on imperial succession debate
KYODO NEWS - Oct 26, 2021 - 15:53 | All, Japan, World

Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi said Tuesday a joint Chinese and Russian naval flotilla seen recently around Japan displays an unprecedented "show of force" that underscores the growing list of security challenges in the region.

Five Chinese ships and five Russian ships on Monday last week sailed together through the Tsugaru Strait between Hokkaido and Japan's main island of Honshu into the Pacific Ocean. On Saturday, they passed through the Osumi Strait south of Kyushu before continuing into the East China Sea.

"This is the first time we have confirmed activity on such a large scale and over such a long period," Kishi said at a press conference. "We believe this was a show of force toward Japan."

The flotilla is believed to have included ships that took part in a joint drill conducted by China and Russia in the Sea of Japan in mid-October.

Both straits are international waters and foreign ships are allowed to pass through freely.

But Kishi said the passage of the Chinese and Russian naval vessels "clearly demonstrates the increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan" and that "such developments must be closely monitored from the viewpoint of regional peace and stability."

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said at a separate press conference that Japan told the two countries through diplomatic channels it has a "strong interest" in such activity in surrounding waters.

Related coverage:

5 Russian navy ships enter Sea of Japan after circling around Japan

Chinese, Russian warships pass through Osumi Strait for 1st time

Chinese, Russian warships pass through Tsugaru Strait for 1st time
KYODO NEWS - Oct 27, 2021 - 04:22 | World, All

ASEAN leaders voiced concerns regarding Myanmar at their annual summit meeting Tuesday, held without a representative from the country after its military leader was excluded by the group, and explored a balanced approach for addressing the political turmoil in the member state.

The Association of Southeast Asian Nations had invited a senior Foreign Ministry official from Myanmar as a "nonpolitical representative," but the country's military authorities boycotted the summit altogether.

"While respecting the principle of noninterference, we reaffirmed our adherence to the rule of law, good governance, the principles of democracy and constitutional government as well as the need to strike an appropriate balance to the application of ASEAN principles on the situation in Myanmar," said a statement issued by Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, who chaired the meeting.

"We expressed the view that Myanmar's national preoccupation should not affect ASEAN Community building process and decision making," it said.

The statement appeared to suggest a shift among ASEAN countries on their long-standing principle of noninterference in the domestic affairs of member countries.

The ASEAN leaders urged Myanmar to allow a visit by the ASEAN special envoy, Brunei's Second Foreign Minister Erywan Yusof, to access all sides of the conflict and try to find ways to resolve issues through mediation, in line with a peace plan adopted by the ASEAN leaders in April.

"We welcomed the efforts by the Special Envoy of the ASEAN Chair on Myanmar and called on all parties concerned in Myanmar to swiftly and fully implement the Five-Point Consensus, including by facilitating the visit of the Special Envoy to Myanmar to build trust and confidence with full access to all parties concerned," the statement said.

At the same time, the statement emphasized that "Myanmar remains a member of the ASEAN family" and ASEAN recognizes that "Myanmar needs both time and political space to deal with its many and complex challenges."

The statement said the ASEAN leaders voiced their concerns over Myanmar at the annual summit meeting, which was held via videoconference under Brunei's chairmanship due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

At the summit, Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said he was deeply saddened by recent developments in Myanmar.

"Myanmar remains a valued member of the ASEAN family. Malaysia looks forward to the return to democracy in Myanmar and participation of Myanmar at the highest level in future summits," he said.

Indonesia's Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi told reporters that at the meeting, President Joko Widodo regretted the uncooperative stance of Myanmar, while stressing that Indonesia continues to provide humanitarian assistance to the country.

Meanwhile, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha said the situation in Myanmar tests the capability of ASEAN to handle issues and solve problems in the bloc.

"Thailand believes in the intellect of all ASEAN members to jointly overcome the challenges on the ground...and return to the democratic process for the interests of Myanmar people for regional peace, stability and prosperity," Prayut said.

A photo of the videoconference released by the Thai government showed a blank space where a Myanmar representative was supposed to appear during the chair's opening remarks.

ASEAN foreign ministers decided earlier not to invite Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, who in February led the coup toppling a civilian Myanmar government led by Aung San Suu Kyi, due to a lack of progress in implementing a five-point consensus that had been agreed among ASEAN leaders to find a solution to the crisis.

After the summit, Myanmar's Foreign Ministry said in a statement that its absence "does not intend to show its protest against ASEAN or to boycott ASEAN."

It said the proposed downgrading of its level of participation and limiting its role in discussions and decisions made at the summit would be "contrary to the principles, procedures of the ASEAN Charter and precedent of ASEAN."

The extraordinary development for ASEAN at its summit comes as the regional group, led by member countries Indonesia and Malaysia, puts pressure on Myanmar's junta to cooperate with it in implementing the five-point consensus.

The consensus includes sending a special envoy to Myanmar to mediate dialogue between all sides in the country's political turmoil. But a visit by the envoy has not been approved by the military authorities.

Apart from the summit involving the group's 10 member countries, related meetings with non-ASEAN countries that are also major ASEAN trading partners, such as the United States, China and Japan, will be held virtually over three days through Thursday.

A summit between ASEAN and the United States was held later Tuesday, with President Joe Biden taking part. His predecessor Donald Trump only attended one U.S.-ASEAN summit, in 2017.

Biden will also join the East Asia Summit on Wednesday, in contrast with Trump, who skipped every East Asia Summit meeting held during his tenure and drew criticism for his perceived lack of interest in Southeast Asia.

ASEAN consists of Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Related coverage:

ASEAN invites senior Myanmar Foreign Ministry official to summit

ASEAN leaders to urge Myanmar to allow envoy visit for mediation

ASEAN to exclude Myanmar's military leader from Oct. summit
New Delhi:

TN ESLC Result 2019: The Directorate of Government Examinations, Tamil Nadu has announced the Tamil Nadu ESLC Result 2019 today at 4:15 pm. The Tamil Nadu Board class 8 students who have appeared for the examination can now check their results. The board has published results on the official website of the board i.e. dge1.tn.nic.in. The exams of the students were held from January 21 to 25, 2019.

For the convenience of the students, we have mentioned the steps through which the candidates can check the results:

Visit the official website of the board i.e. dge1.tn.nic.in

On the homepage, the candidates can see the link of the result.

Click on the link and then a new page will appear.

On that page, enter the details such as the registration number of the candidates and also his/ her date of birth.

The result is available in the pdf format. The candidates can get the details such as the name of the student, roll number, registration number, enrollment number, date of birth of the students, class name, exam name, exam type, subject name, marks in the subjects, result status and some other useful information.

For SSLC, the board has released the result declaration date. It is expected that the students of class 10 will get the result on April 29, 2019. The candidates will be able to search the result online at tnresults.nic.in. The candidates will have to submit the registration number and the date of birth to get the result.
New Delhi :

Unfazed by the ban on TikTok in India, the popular Chinese short video apps parent ByteDance remains very optimistic and plans to invest USD 1 billion in the country over the next three years. ByteDancetouted to be among the worlds most valuable startups with investors like SoftBank, General Atlantic, KKR and Sequoia on boardalso offers platforms like Helo and Vigo Video in India.

Speaking to PTI, ByteDance Director (International Public Policy) Helena Lersch said the company has been strengthening its content moderation policies over the last many months.

We are obviously disappointed by the current developments, but we are also very optimistic that we will resolve this issue. We remain committed to our Indian users. As a company, we are looking to invest USD 1 billion over the next three years in India, that is how bullish we will remain to be here, she said.

The company would also be increasing the number of employees in India to 1,000 people by the end of this year. TikTok, which allows users to create short videos and share them, has more than 120 million users in India and is popular among youngsters.

The Madras High Court on April 3 had directed the Centre to ban TikTok app, saying it was evident from media reports that pornography and inappropriate content were made available through such mobile apps.

Following the Supreme Courts refusal to stay the Madras High Court order, tech giants Google and Apple removed TikTok from their app stores in India to prohibit further downloads of the app.

Those who have already downloaded the app would be able to continue using it on their phones. Lersch declined to comment on court proceedings as the matter is subjudice. The hearing of the matter is scheduled for April 22 in the Supreme Court and for April 24 in the Madras High Court.

India is a critical market for social media platforms given the large population of 1.3 billion people. With increasing availability of affordable smartphones and cheap data plans, the country is also the largest mobile data consumer market globallyan opportunity that global tech companies are vying to tap into.

We, as a company, abide by local laws, but we also want to be culturally appropriate. We have a content moderation team in India. We increased the capacity of our content moderation team globally by 400 per cent last year because we were prepared for the growth, she added. According to her, the company has a a two-step approach for content moderation.

First is a tech approacha machine learning tool that filters content and then it goes to a content moderation team. In India, the team speaks 14 languages. I think, it is fundamentally important that the team is based in the country and speaks local languages to make culturally relevant decisions, she said.

Around six million videos have been taken off the platform for violating its community guidelines, she added. Besides planned USD 1 billion investment, Lersche said the company would be ramping up headcount to 1,000 people by December 2019.

(About) 25 per cent of that will be just content moderation, which means there is full-time moderation staff based in India...We have around 250 full-time staff (right now) but we are very growing that rapidly, she added.

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New Delhi:

Urmila Matondkar on Thursday said the biopic made on Prime Minister Narendra Modi was a joke as he has failed to fulfil his promises. Urmila is contesting the Lok Sabha election as a Congress candidate from Mumbai North. The biopic on Modi, starring Vivek Oberoi, was set to hit the screens on April 11. However, the Election Commission ordered a stay on its release during the poll period.

The biopic made on his (Modis) life is nothing but a joke as the prime minister, who claims to have a 56-inch-chest, has miserably failed to deliver anything. The movie made on his life is a joke on the democracy, poverty and diversity of India, which has been damaged, news agency PTI quoted him as saying.

What can be worse than a prime minister of a democratic country not holding even a single press conference in the last five years, she said.

Earlier, officials of the Election Commission, drawn from its model code and legal divisions, Wednesday watched the biopic on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the directions of the Supreme Court. The EC had asked the producers of the film to arrange for a screening for its committee.

The screening was "longish" as officials also discussed various aspects, sources said. Now the EC will take a considered view on whether the ban should continue and submit its decision to the Supreme Court by April 19 in a sealed cover.

The Supreme Court had on Monday directed the EC to watch the full biopic on Modi and take an informed decision on banning its pan-India release. A bench of Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices Deepak Gupta and Sanjiv Khanna had said it will consider the EC report and hear the matter on April 22.

The Modi biopic, starring Vivek Oberoi in the lead, has been the most-talked about movie in this election season. Directed by Omung Kumar, it tells the story of Modi's rise to power from his humble beginnings.
New Delhi:

Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that Shiv Sena formed alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) because his party wanted a prime minister who can dare to attack Pakistan. Shiv Sena formed an alliance with the saffron party again ahead of the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections. We wanted a prime minister who could attack Pakistan by entering its home. That is why we formed this alliance. I have formed alliance with the BJP (also) for the welfare of Marathwada and Maharashtra, he added. Thackeray was addressing a campaign rally here for Sena candidate Chandrakant Khaire.



The Congress does not want abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution which gives a special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Thackeray said, and added that his party wants that every law applicable to rest of India should also apply in Jammu and Kashmir, he said.



Thackeray also came down heavily on former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar who is contesting on a CPI ticket from Begusarai in Bihar."People like Kanhaiya Kumar preparing to enter Lok Sabha is very sad, he is a separatist," he said.

On Friday, Priyanka Chaturvedi joined the Shiv Sena. Earlier, she had tweeted her resignation letter expressing her anguish with the Congress party after it reinstated leaders who misbehaved with her. She was also the convenor of Congress party's media cell. What saddens me is that despite the safety, dignity, empowerment of women being promoted by the party...the same is not reflected in the action of some of the members of the party, she wrote. She also in a tweet said that she was deeply saddened that lumpen goons, who threatened her within the party.



Several Uttar Pradesh Congress leaders allegedly misbehaved with Priyanka Chaturvedi during a press conference in Mathura on the issue of Rafale deal. On Chaturvedi's complaint, the Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee (UPCC) suspended them for their unruly behaviour. However, after Congress general secretary Jyotiraditya Scindias intervention, their suspension was revoked.
Jammu/Srinagar:

Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday recorded a total of 45.64 per cent polling in second phase of Lok Sabha Elections. While seventy per cent voting was recorded in Udhampur Lok Sabha seat, the trend of low turnout continued in Srinagar with 14.8 per cent voters exercising their franchise in the constituency where polling was held in tight security amid militant threats and boycott call by separatists. The polling for the second phase of Lok Sabha elections in Jammu and Kashmir remained peaceful and incident-free, Chief Electoral Officer Shailendra Kumar told reporters.

In the 2014 general election, Srinagar had witnessed a turnout of 25.86 per cent which fell to 7.2 per cent in the 2017 Lok Sabha bypoll. Udhampur had witnessed 70.9 per cent polling in 2014. Kumar said Srinagar district recorded the lowest turnout of 7.69 per cent while Reasi district in Udhampur constituency recorded the highest of 73 per cent among the nine districts where polling was conducted Thursday in the state.

According to sources, as many as 90 polling booths, mostly in downtown Srinagar, saw no voting. Srinagar constituency had 1,716 polling stations. Ganderbal district recorded 16.7 per cent while in Budgam district, the turnout was 21.5 per cent, the CEO said.

Udhampur district recorded 69.8 per cent, followed by Kathua (69.7 per cent), Doda (61.5 per cent), Kishtwar (61 per cent) and Ramban (57.6 per cent). Kumar said there were no reports of any violence during the day. "The polling remained peaceful."

However, there was protest by a group of displaced Kashmiri migrants in Jammu after some of the members found their names missing in the voters list at a special polling station.

Over 29.6 lakh people in the two seats were eligible to vote to decide the fate of 24 candidates, including former Chief Minister and National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah and Union Minister Jitendra Singh who were contesting for Srinagar and Udhampur Parliamentary constituencies respectively.

For migrant voters of Srinagar constituency, 26 polling stations were set up with 21 in Jammu, one in Udhampur and four in New Delhi. Out of 4,700 eligible to vote, 2,100 voters exercised their franchise.

Kashmiri migrants demanded a probe into missing of names in the voters list at a special polling station here. A group of people also staged protest for not setting up polling station at Talwara (Reasi) for over 600 migrant voters.

"No polling station was setup at Talwara migrant camp for voting. We have 673 votes here. DC Reasi first promised us polling station but later refused. We were told that buses will be given to us for ensuring voting at our places, but no vehicles were sent," a migrant leader told reporters.

The protesters raised slogans against district authorities of Reasi and the Election Commission. There was a problem with EVM at a polling station in Ramban district but it was later rectified.

Police and paramilitary personnel were deployed in strength in and around polling stations in all three districts -- Srinagar, Budgam and Ganderbal -- of Srinagar constituency, the officials said.

Separatists had called for a shutdown in the three districts against the Lok Sabha polls. Meanwhile, authorities snapped mobile internet services in these districts as a precautionary measure. "The mobile internet service has been suspended as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order," an official said. The BSNL's broadband service was working, but its speed has been decreased.

Voters in border district of Kathua and Udhampur turned up in large numbers at polling booths this morning, officials said. Udhampur parliamentary seat had 2,710 polling stations. The family members of senior RSS functionary Chanderkant Sharma, who was killed along with his PSO by terrorists in Kishtwar last Tuesday, cast their votes at Kishtwar after performing the post-death rituals on 10th day.

A newly-married couple was seen in their wedding finery at a polling station in Udhampur town. The enthusiastic couple said youths should come out to vote. Raj Devi, 95, voted at a polling station in Chenani in Udhampur district. Authorities on Thursday order suspension of two poll officials including a presiding officer for dereliction of duty in Kishtwar.

In Srinagar, Abdullah is pitched against political greenhorns Aga Moshin of the PDP, Irfan Ansari of the People's Conference and Khalid Jehangir of the BJP. In Udhampur, prominent contestants include four Rajputs: Union minister Jitendra Singh seeking reelection on a BJP ticket, Dogra dynasty scion Vikramaditya Singh fighting as a Congress candidate, Dogra Swabhiman Sangathan founder Choudhary Lal Singh and National Panthers party chairman Harsh Dev Singh.

"We made an attempt to have all women polling stations during this election. There were 25 such polling stations in total in both the constituencies. Other than that, we had 149 model polling stations as well," Kumar said.

The CEO said there were 1.5 lakh first time voters which included 1.2 lakh voters who were between the age of 18 years and 21 years. "95 per cent voters had photo-identity cards while 97 per cent voters had photographs on electoral rolls," he added.

Asked if the election authorities were mulling to prepone the ending time for polling in Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency in view of violence that led to death of one youth in Langate during the first phase, Kumar said they had received a request from police to this effect. "We are examining it," the CEO said.
New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address a thanksgiving convention at Talkatora stadium in Delhi on Friday organised by traders supporting the BJP to express "gratitude" for various measures promised in the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls, Delhi BJP leaders said Tuesday. Delhi BJP president Manoj Tiwari said the party manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls has raised hopes of the people including traders in the country who want to bring Modi back as prime minister.

Union minister Vijay Goel earlier said prominent business leaders and office-bearers of all market associations in Delhi have been invited to Rashtriye Vyapari Dhanyawad Mahasammelan.

Crores of traders want to express their gratitude to the Prime Minister for the BJPs Sankalp Patra promising measures like accident insurance of Rs 10 lakh, pension after 60 years, traders credit card, simplification of GST and also exemption from income tax up to Rs 5 lakhs, Goel said Tuesday.

Delhi BJP chief Tiwari claimed only the saffron party can permanently solve the problems of traders.

The traders of Delhi are wise and very well understand the falsehood of the Kejriwal government. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has never raised his voice in the interest of the traders. If any party can solve the problems of traders on a permanent basis, it is the BJP, Tiwari asserted.

AAP leaders, including party chief Kejriwal, have been at the forefront of charging the Modi government of destroying small and medium businesses through its twin decisions of demonetisation and goods and services tax.
New Delhi:

HD Deve Gowda, Janata Dal (Secular) chief and former prime minister, said that he will stand by Rahul Gandhi if the later becomes the prime minister of the country. He thinks JD(S) ought to support the Congress and move forward with it. "Madam Sonia Gandhi has taken the decision to support Deve Gowda even though we are a small party. Now it is my responsibility to move forward with the Congress, though I do agree in some states there is no question of any coalition. But in Tamil Nadu, there is a coalition between Congress and DMK and with Sharad Pawar's party in Maharashtra," Deve Gowda said as quoted by news agency ANI.

Though the former prime minister had three years ago announced that he would not contest the elections, this time around he is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Karnataka's Tumkur parliamentary constituency against GS Basvaraj of the BJP.

On this, Deve Gowda said, I announced three years ago that I will not contest elections. There are circumstances now in which I have been forced to contest. There is nothing to hide. I have no ambition of anything but what I always said is that I am not going to retire from active politics."

When asked if he wants to retire like LK Advani, he replied with an emphatic ''no'', adding, "I want to save my party first and last the office building."

Commenting on his son and Karnataka Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy's statement that there is a possibility that Deve Gowda might become the prime minister as a consensus candidate after the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, he replied: "I am not bothered about this. My concern is (Narendra) Modi will come to Parliament. I have got the guts and conviction to tell it to the face of the PM. I have the courage. If Rahul Gandhi becomes the prime minister, I will sit by his side. It is not necessary to become the prime minister."

When asked on allegations of saving the family rather than the party, the JD(S) chief said: "Several leaders who worked with me collectively, have left. Some people are in Congress, some in BJP. I was able to keep the party intact but suffered. I have not allowed my family members to become president of the party."
Bengaluru:

An estimated 67.79 per cent voter turnout was reported in the elections to 14 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka in the first phase on Thursday with the polls being by and large peaceful with no major incident reported. The main contest is between the ruling Congress-JD(S) alliance and the BJP. The key constituency of Mandya, where Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamys son Nikhil is pitted against actress Sumalatha Ambareesh, recorded the highest voter turnout of about 80.23 per cent.

The lowest turnout was reported in Bangalore Central constituency with 49.75 per cent, election officials said. In other constituencies of the city that has a history of low voter turnout, Bangalore North recorded 50.51 per cent, Bangalore South 54.12 per cent and Bangalore Rural 64.09 per cent.

"These are tentative final figures....it may go up. it is better than last election," a senior poll official said, adding that the election was by and large peaceful, with no major incident reported.

Voter turnout was at 68.68 per cent in these 14 Lok Sabha constituencies during the 2014 Parliamentary election. Polling began at 7 am in 30,164 polling stations of 14 constituencies that are in the southern part of the state, covering almost the entire old Mysuru region and few coastal districts.

In Tumkur, where former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda is locked in a tough contest with G S Basavaraj of BJP, 77.01 per cent turnout was reported. Hassan where Gowdas other grandson Prajwal Revanna is contesting against A Manju of BJP, reported 77.28 per cent polling. Former Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs home turf of Mysore where sitting MP Prathap Simha of BJP is fighting against Vijayshankar of Congress saw 68.85 per cent polling.

Mandya, Mysore, Tumkur and Hassan are the constituencies where the ruling Congress-JD(S) faced dissidence among grassroot party workers as they were upset with the seat sharing arrangement. Both parties, which have been fighting against each other for decades, joined hands to form the government after the assembly polls last year as the election threw up a hung verdict.

As per the alliance arrangement, both parties decided to fight the Lok Sabha polls together which is something that the leadership of the Congress and JD(S) has not been able to convince their party men. In Mandya, the rebellion within Congress came out in the open as many of them supported Sumalatha.

With transfer of votes between Congress and JD(S) crucial for the alliance partners, especially in the old Mysuru region to defeat the BJP, the palpable dissidence and mistrust among workers of both parties in constituencies like Mandya, Mysore, Hassan, Tumkur are causing worry for the leadership.

Any adverse result is likely to have its impact on the longevity of the coalition government in the state. The BJP, which has set a target of bagging at least 22 out of the total 28 seats, is hoping to win the maximum number of seats in the first phase riding on the Modi wave.

Of the 14 constituencies that went to the polls, the BJP and Congress had won six each in 2014 Lok Sabha elections, and JD(S) in two. While the BJP is contesting in 13 constituencies and supporting Sumalatha, Congress and JD(S) have fielded candidates in 10 and four constituencies respectively.

Dakshina Kannada recorded 77.70 per cent polling, Udupi-Chikmagalur 75.26 per cent, Chitradurga 70.59 per cent, Chamarajnagar 73.45 per cent, Chikkaballapur 76.14 per cent and Kolar 75.94 per cent. Voting began at 7 am in 30,164 polling stations that are mostly in the southern parts of the state covering almost the entire old Mysuru region and a few coastal districts.

A total of 2,67,51,893 voters were eligible to exercise their franchise in the first phase with 241 candidates in the fray.

Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda along with wife Chennamma, Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy along with wife Anita and son Nikhil, former Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, the scion of Mysuru royal family Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar along with wife Trishika, pontiffs Siddalinga Swamiji of Siddaganga mutt and Shivarathri Deshikendra Mahaswamiji of Suttur mutt were among prominent personalities who cast their vote.

Also exercising their franchise were Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, RSS Joint General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale, former External Affairs Minister S M Krishna, Infosys founder N R Narayana Murthy along with wife Sudha, IT czar Nandan Nilekani, Kannada actors Ramesh Arvind and Sudeep.

In Mangaluru and Udupi, two brides cast their votes ahead of their marriage Thursday, while in Madikeri a bridegroom was seen entering the poll booth to cast his vote in traditional attire.

According to reports, two centenarians, one each in Dakshina Kannada district and Bengaluru, cast their vote. A poll officer on reserve duty died of heart attack in Chamaraja assembly segment under Mysore Lok Sabha constituency, officials said.

The remaining 14 constituencies, mostly in northern districts, will go to polls in the second phase on April 23.
New Delhi:

Dolphins can use hundreds of different sounds to talk to each other. A rare footage obtained by biologists reveals how dolphins have more than 230 noises for communication. This is an important clue in our understanding of how and why dolphins evolved the capacity for communication. The river dolphin species commonly referred to as "botos" were first discovered in 2014. Scientists have been eager to learn more about the mysterious creatures. Botos are notoriously difficult to track down, but researchers found a fish market in a Brazilian town called Mocajuba where the dolphins visit regularly to be fed by locals.



Only 600 to 1,500 are estimated to be in existence in the South American country's Araguaia-Tocantins River system, per a 2014 study published in PLOS One Journal.



The research suggests that the botos sounds fall between low-frequency calls by baleen whales for long-distance communication and high-frequency calls from marine dolphins for short distances.



We found that they do interact socially and are making more sounds than previously thought, said Laura May Collado, a biologist at the University of Vermont, who worked on the study published in PeerJ.



"It's exciting. Marine dolphins like the bottlenose use signature whistles for contact, and here we have a different sound used by river dolphins for the same purpose. There are a lot of obstacles, like flooded forests and vegetation, in their habitat, so this signal could have evolved to avoid echoes from vegetation and improve the communication range of mothers and their calves," Collado said.

Collado asserted the work could help researchers gain a clearer understanding of how communication evolved in marine mammals. Similar calls have been reported in pilot whales and killer whales, for example, and the similarities and differences between different species could help tease out which signals evolved first, and why.

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Patna:

A total of 62.52 per cent of 86.01 lakh voters exercised their franchise in five Lok Sabha seats in Bihar in the second phase on Thursday, amid incidents of police firing and poll boycotts. Katihar Lok Sabha constituency witnessed the highest voter turnout of 68.20 per cent, followed by Purnea (64.50 pc), Kishanganj (64.10 pc), Bhagalpur (58.2 pc) and Banka (58.0 pc), Chief Electoral Officer Bihar H R Srinivasa said.

The poll percentage of the five constituencies may increase once the final figures reach the state election office here. Polling passed off "peacefully" with one exception of a police firing at a village in Shambhuganj area under Banka Lok Sabha constituency in order to control a mob that wanted to carry out bogus voting, he said.

When the attempt was foiled by the paramilitary forces, the mob started brick batting them using women as shield, forcing the security personnel to fire four rounds in the air, the CEO said.

Six persons were arrested during the polling but Srinivasa did not explain whether all of them were involved in the incident at Banka. Re-poll has been ordered in a single polling station in Jamui assembly segment of Banka Lok Sabha constituency after some anti-social elements damaged the ballot unit of the EVM, the CEO said.

Re-poll will be conducted on April 20. People of Naugachhia in Bhagalpur Lok Sabha seat and Banka in Banka Lok Sabha constituency boycotted the election for lack of road and water facilities in their areas, he said.

There were some minor incidents of EVM malfunctioning, the CEO said. Fates of 68 candidates will be decided in the second phase of polling.
New Delhi:

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) general secretary Ram Madhav on Thursday said it would be ff Pakistan Prime Minister keeps way from the ongoing Lok Sabha elections in India. "It would be better if Imran Khan keeps off Indian elections," he said. He was backing Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's theory that Congress might be plotting with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to influence elections.

"People of India will decide who will be the prime minister of India. We are wise enough; we don't need advisers from across the border. When we (BJP) come back to power, we will see how to deal with our neighbours," news agency ANI quoted him as saying.



"It is the Opposition which is trying to gain political or electoral mileage by invoking the Balakot issue and raising doubts about our Army's actions. They are not questioning the government but the very credentials of the Army itself," he said.

Earlier, Nirmala Sitharaman had said that Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan's statement endorsing another term for Narendra Modi as Indias PM could be a ploy by the Congress party to oust him from power. "Such statements come around elections in India and also there have been eminent Congress leaders who've gone there to seek help 'Modi hatane ke liye madad karo business'. I wonder if this is also part of scheme of things which have been put forth by the Congress' side," Sitharaman said.



The Opposition parties led by the Congress alleged a secret understanding between Modi and his Pakistani counterpart after the latters open endorsement for his victory in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

"Pak has officially allied with Modi! A vote for Modi is a vote for Pakistan, says Pak PM Imran Khan. Modiji, first affection with Nawaz Sharif and now Imran Khan has become your loving friend. He has called your bluff," the Congress had said.



Following Imran Khans statement, Opposition leaders also started questioning the timing of Pulwama terror attack and Balakot strike, with some alleging that the attack was planned by PM Modi to swing the voters in his favour. Several pre-poll surveys conducted after the Pulwama attack and Balakot strike showed BJP gained from these incidents. The saffron party, that fought the 2014 elections on the issue of development, planned its 2019 Lok Sabha elections campaign around nationalism.
Tokyo:

Japanese car giant Toyota and investment fund SoftBank Vision Fund on Friday unveiled an investment of $1 billion in US company Uber to drive forward the development of driverless ridesharing services. The latest cash injection, expected to close in the third quarter this year, came amid fevered anticipation of Ubers public share offering which is expected to be the largest in the tech sector for years.

Toyota has already invested $500 million in Uber as the firm races Google-owned Waymo and a host of other companies, including major automakers, to develop self-driving vehicles.

The latest investment, which also involves Japanese parts maker DENSO, will go to Ubers Advanced Technologies Group in a bid to accelerate the development and commercialisation of automated ridesharing, the firms said in a statement.

Toyota and DENSO are stumping up $667 million and SoftBank Vision Fund, the investment arm of Japanese tycoon Masayoshi Sons SoftBank, will pour $333 million into the venture.

It is already the top shareholder in Uber, holding 16 per cent.

The Japanese car firm said it would also contribute an additional $300 million over the next three years to help cover the costs related to these activities.

Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi said driverless cars would transform transportation as we know it, making our streets safer and our cities more liveable.

His firm is aiming to go beyond car rides to becoming the Amazon of transportation in a future where people share, instead of own, vehicles.

If all goes to plan, commuters could ride an e-scooter to a transit station, take a train, then grab an e-bike, share a ride or take an e-scooter at the arriving station to complete a journeyall using an Uber app on a smartphone.

Uber is also seeing growing success with an Eats service that lets drivers make money delivering meals ordered from restaurants.

Last week, Uber filed official documents for its much-anticipated public share offering.

The filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission said it operates on six continents with some 14 million trips per day and has totalled more than 10 billion rides since it was founded in 2010.

The filing contained a placeholder amount of $1 billion to be raised but that figure is expected to increase ahead of the initial public offering (IPO) expected in May.

The Wall Street Journal said earlier this month that Uber was seeking to raise $10 billion in what would be the largest stock offering of the year.

Media reports said the ride-hailing giant was likely to seek a market value of close to USD 100 billion.

Uber is the largest of the unicorns or venture-backed firms worth at least USD 1 billion to list on Wall Street, and is one of the key companies in the sharing economy based on offering services to replace ownership of cars, homes and other commodities.

Its revenue grew 42 per cent last year to $11.2 billion but it continued to lose money from its operations. A net profit was reported for the year from a large asset sale, but operational losses were more than $3 billion.

And some analysts have voiced caution over the forthcoming IPO given a relative lacklustre debut for Lyft, the main US rival.

Khosrowshahi has promised greater transparency as he seeks to restore confidence in the global ridesharing leader hit by a wave of misconduct scandals.

In October, Toyota and SoftBank announced the creation of a joint venture to create new mobility service including driverless vehicles for services such as meal deliveries.

The new companycalled Monet, short for mobility networkis majority owned by SoftBank.

SoftBank started as a software firm but has increasingly been pushing into investments under tycoon Son, one of Japans richest men.

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Imphal:

Over 80 per cent turnout was reported from one Lok Sabha constituency where polling was held Thursday in the second phase amid violence in two booths were voting was stalled for sometime, officials said here.

State Chief Electoral Officer PK Singh said 80.47 per cent of the over 9 lakh voters exercised their franchise in the Inner Manipur Lok Sabha constituency.

"This is not the final figure as report from all the centres are yet to reach here," Singh said.

The turnout for the 19 polling stations where re-poll was held on Thursday is 84.80 per cent, he said.

However, this figure does not include record of one polling station ub Churanchandpur district.

The Election Commission on Tuesday ordered re-poll in 19 polling stations of Outer Manipur, the second parliamentary seat of the state, following complaints of voter intimidation by militants and destruction of EVMs and VVPATs during the first phase voting on April 11.

Violence was reported in this phase too. Voting was stalled in two polling booths of Inner Manipur constituency on Thursday after violence broke out over alleged proxy voting and dispute among the election agents, the CEO said.

A group of men stormed into a polling station at Kiyamgei Muslim Makha locality in Imphal East district around 11.30 am and broke EVMs and VVPATs, claiming that "proxy voting" was being carried out in the station, Singh told PTI.

It was only after the security personnel opened fire in the air, the mob dispersed, Singh said.

In another booth in the same area, a scuffle broke out between the polling agents of opposing political parties around 3 pm, derailing the voting process.

The reason behind the skirmish between the agents was not clear as yet, the CEO said. Sources in the election office said that re-polling was likely in the two booths of East Imphal district. Manipur Governor Najma Heptulla cast her vote in the day at T G Higher Secondary School in Imphal West district.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el Sisi has ended the state of emergency in the country for the first time in years. "I decided for the first time in years to withdraw the extension of the state of emergency throughout the country," Sisi said on social media late on Monday.

"I am glad that we share together the moment that we have long sought with struggle and hard work. Egypt has become, thanks to its great people and loyal men, an oasis of security and stability in the region," he added. He said, the Egyptians are "the real makers" of this decision through their sincere participation in all development and construction efforts, reports Xinhua news agency. "As I announce this decision, I remember with all honor and appreciation our heroic martyrs, without whom we would not have reached security and stability," Sisi said.

Notably, Egypt imposed a state of emergency in 2017 after two church bombings killed at least 45 people. It has been constantly renewed in accordance with the constitution.

Since the military ouster of former President Mohamed Morsi in 2013, Egypt has been suffering terrorist attacks, which killed 100s of policemen and soldiers in North Sinai Province and later spread to big cities including Cairo and Alexandria. Most of the attacks were claimed responsible by the Wilayat Sinai, a Sinai-based group affiliated with the extremist Islamic State (IS) group.

Israel cancels ten-Years-long travel warning for Morocco

UN Interim Force chief urges Lebanon, Israel to respect Blue Line

Iran Nuclear Negotiator Announces Meeting With European Union Diplomat
Almost a year back, a video of a popular TikToker (name not disclosed due to privacy reasons), who identifies herself as a transwoman, got viral in which she was being harassed by two bike riders. The video shared across social media showed her in one of her most vulnerable states where she was hiding her face and later approaching the harasser defensively.

The video originally posted with intentions to humiliate later got circulated around by a wide range of social media users to explain why it was wrong. People shared it for advocacy, talked of the atrociousness of the act, of the levels of impact that can make on the person and the LGBTQIA++ community to which she belongs, and the need for more awareness and discourses on the topics, with all positive intentions. Criticisms and comments poured, actions were taken, and the harassers along with the owner of the social media handle from which it was originally posted were taken into custody within a few days.

The day the video was out, a heated discussion took place among my group of friends. Considering how the video captured her in some of her vulnerable moments which she may or may not have been comfortable sharing widely, it can be assumed that the video would have impacted her at multiple levels, shared for advocacy or otherwise.

The confusions were  but she is a public figure, so her videos are likely to be widely shared, right? and  but her video is used to provide a message, to make the society aware of the wrongfulness of the act, and to take action against it. So she might appreciate the support she is gaining, right?

After an hourlong discussion back and forth, we came to realise that during a short span when all the events unfolded, it was not clear whether or not she had consented for the video to be shared once it was made outspread by the harasser. The greater purpose of advocacy also involved the uninformed and unconsented sharing of the video of one of her most vulnerable moments, which is ethically questionable. Hence, they should make efforts to ensure the advocacy campaigns are ethical, digitally too, by promoting informed consent.

What is informed consent?

Photo: Pexels/ ready made

Informed consent is a popular term in development and gender-based advocacy programme that refers to ensuring subjects of advocacyin most cases, women, indigenous people and marginalised communitieshave understood all stages of programmes and have given permission to use and publish their information freely.

The pre-requisition of taking consent falls in line with the Privacy Act of Nepal that has specified that No person shall publish, or cause to be published, any matter which is related to any person so as to affect, inflict or insult in the personal life of such a person, by writing, speaking, publishing or using electronic means or any other manner. Furthermore, article 16, sub-section 1 of the act also prohibits publishing and disseminating photographs without obtaining his or her consent with the intention to annoy, distress or take any improper advantage.

Various bilateral and multilateral agencies have also developed ethical guidelines highlighting the need for informed consent as their safeguard policy. The United Nations ethical guidelines mandate, Specific cases of violence against women and girls must not be exposed to the public unless the survivors are fully informed of potential consequences, and have given their explicit, possibly written, consent. Likewise, the World Bank and Asian Development Bank, the two major donor agencies in Nepals developmental sector, follow their Free, Prior, Informed Consent provision that mandates prior consent of Indigenous and marginalised communities for certain project activities.

Problems and concerns

Limited within the agency-led interventions, the concept of informed consent lags behind in new-age social media advocacy.

With the digital world taking over means of all communication, social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Clubhouse have provided the public with wide space at their fingertips to voice their opinions about any current affairs.

Social media advocacy has undoubtedly contributed a lot to bringing much-needed changes in the socio-political sphere. The most popular example is the #Metoo campaign, that spiked a global movement against workplace harassment. However, it also has its drawbacks. Since people have instant access to receiving and sharing information, ethical considerations get avoided sometimes.

With the larger scope of sharing information, there is an equal risk and tendency of spreading misinformation with a lack of evidence and researched data. The users who use social media for advocacy are also at greater risk of cyberbullying and online sexual harassment that has evidently led to increased mental health impacts among teens and youth. As per the Cyber Bureau of Nepal Police, there were 5,574 cases of online harassment reported within the period of 2016 to 2020, and yet that is still the most minimal representation of reality.

The cases of photos and profiles being used without the consent of the original user is also extensive. Facebook reports an estimated 16% of profiles on the platform being duplicate or fake that signifies unconsented profiles and information.

While many studies have explored ethical measures for undertaking research using social media, ethical measurement in social media advocacy is still a concept under-explored. There has been growing conversation regarding ethical travel reporting and representation of marginalised communities on platforms like Instagram, but conversations regarding consent-based gender-based advocacy on social media still need more discussions and actions.

How to ensure ethical social media advocacy

Photo by Solen Feyissa on Unsplash

A paper published jointly by the UN agencies provides some guidance to ensuring ethical measures during social media advocacy.

Putting survivors best interest above everything: The survivors right to dignity, privacy, confidentiality, safety, security and protection from harm should be prioritised foremost and it should be considered how a story could potentially violate these core principles.

Avoiding judgmental language: Social media advocates should be careful about the choice of words and avoid referring to survivors history, sexual preferences, clothes, activities they were doing or time of abuse as they could connotate victim-blaming. Also, using the terms like accuser or alleged violence should be avoided as they reinforce disbelief in event occurrence.

Consent of survivors: Any identifiable content of the survivors should not be published without the explicit consent of the survivors. Any use of images should present the subject in a way that upholds their dignity. Photos of child and minority survivors should never be used.

Protection from harm: Even though consent is received, survivors should be prevented from further harm. The details that put survivors at risk such as their name, address, family information should be avoided.

Avoiding questions, attitudes or comments that are insensitive: Insensitive questions, attitudes or comments such as their feeling at the time of event, questioning their ability or inability to respond in the situation should be avoided. The journalists/advocates should only report the information the survivor is comfortable sharing with and if possible, consult with GBV experts to form the questions and conduct the interviews.
Generalizing to what you want may be easier than optimizing directly for what you want. We might even ask for "consciousness".

This blog post outlines a key engineering principle Ive come to believe strongly in for building general AI systems with deep learning. This principle guides my present-day research tastes and day-to-day design choices in building large-scale, general-purpose ML systems.

Discoveries around Neural Scaling Laws, unsupervised pretraining on Internet-scale datasets, and other work on Foundation Models have pointed to a simple yet exciting narrative for making progress in Machine Learning:

Large amounts of diverse data are more important to generalization than clever model biases. If you believe (1), then how much your model generalizes is directly proportional to how fast you can push diverse data into a sufficiently high-capacity model.

To that end, Deep Neural nets trained with supervised learning are excellent data sponges - they can memorize vast amounts of data and can do this quickly by training with batch sizes in the tens of thousands. Modern architectures like ResNets and Transformers seem to have no trouble absorbing increasingly large datasets when trained via supervised learning.

When a model has minimized training loss (a.k.a empirical risk), it can be said to have memorized the training set. Classically one would think that minimizing training loss to zero is shortly followed by overfitting, but overparameterized deep networks seem to generalize well even in this regime. Here is an illustration of the double descent phenomena from Patterns, Predictions, and Actions, which illustrates that in some problems, overparameterized models can continue to reduce test error (risk) even as training loss is fully minimized.

A recent ICLR workshop paper investigates this phenomenon on synthetic datasets, showing that if you train long enough in this zero-training-loss regime, the model can suddenly have an epiphany and generalize much later on (the authors call this Grokking). Furthermore, the paper also presents evidence that increasing training data actually decreases the amount of optimization required to generalize.

Its as my colleague Chelsea Finn once told me: Memorization is the first step towards generalization!

State-of-then-art neural networks trained this way can do really impressive things. Here is a DALL-E model that, when prompted with A banana performing stand-up comedy, draws the following picture:

Here is another DALL-E output, prompted with an illstration of a baby panda with headphones staring at its reflection in a mirror.

Note that there are no such images of pandas looking into mirrors or banana comedians in the training data (I think), so these results suggest that the DALL-E model has learned to interpret distinct concepts from text, render the corresponding visual parts in an image and have them interact with each other somewhat coherently.

The ability to just ask language-conditioned deep learning models for what you want has led to prompt engineering as a viable space for improving our ML models. Here is a Tweet discussing how priming a VQGAN + CLIP model with the words Unreal Engine leads to drastically higher-quality images.

What if we could extend this principle - just asking generalization - to other challenging problems that have eluded analytical algorithmic improvements?

Reinforcement Learning: Not a Great Data Sponge

In contrast to supervised learning, reinforcement learning algorithms are much less computationally efficient when it comes to absorbing vast quantities of diverse data needed for generalization. To see why this is the case, lets consider a thought experiment where we train a general-purpose robot to do millions of tasks in unstructured environments.

The standard Markov Decision Process is set up as follows: a policy is represented as a state-conditioned distribution over actions, \(p(a \vert s)\), and the environment as consisting of a reward function \(r(s_t, a_t)\) and transition dynamics \(p(s_{t+1} \vert s_t, a_t)\). Initial states and task objectives are encoded in the initial state \(s_0\), which is sampled from a distribution \(p(s_0)\). The goal is to maximize the sum of rewards across the episode, averaged across different starting states sampled from \(p(s_0)\):

\[\DeclareMathOperator*{\argmax}{arg\,max} \DeclareMathOperator*{\argmin}{arg\,min} \text{Solve}~\theta^*\ = \argmax_\theta~R(\theta)\] \[\text{where}~R(\theta)=E_{p(s_0)}[\sum_{t=1}^{T}{r(s_t, a_t)}]~\text{and}~a_t \sim p_\theta(\cdot|s_t)~\text{and}~s_{t+1} \sim p(\cdot|s_t, a_t)~\text{and}~s_0 \sim p(s_0)\]

Lets assume the existence of some optimal policy which we call \(p^\star(a \vert s)\), that achieves the maximum reward \(\max_\theta R(\theta)\). Supremum would be more accurate, but I use the \(\max\) operator for notational simplicity. We want to bring our model, \(p_\theta(a \vert s)\), as close as possible to \(p^\star(a \vert s)\).

If we had access to the optimal policy \(p^\star(a \vert s)\) as an oracle, we could simply query the oracle action and use it like a supervised learning label. We could then train a feedforward policy that maps the states to the oracle actions, and benefit from all the nice properties that supervised learning methods enjoy: stable training, large batches, diverse offline datasets, no need to interact with the environment.

while not converged : batch_states = replay_buffer . sample ( batch_size ) oracle_actions = [ oracle_policy . sample_action ( s ) for s in batch_states ] model . fit ( batch_states , oracle_actions )

However, in reinforcement learning we often dont have an expert policy to query, so we must improve the policy from its own collected experience. To do this, estimating the gradient that takes the model policy closer to the optimal policy requires evaluating the average episodic return of the current policy in the environment, and then estimating a gradient of that return with respect to parameters. If you treat the environment returns as a black-box with respect to some parameter \(\theta\) you can use the log-derivative trick to estimate its gradients:

\[

abla_\theta E_{p(\theta)} [R(\theta)] = \int_\Theta d\theta

abla_\theta p(\theta) R(\theta) \\ \\ = \int_\Theta d\theta p(\theta)

abla_\theta \log p(\theta) R(\theta) = E_{p(\theta)} [

abla_\theta \log p(\theta) R(\theta)]\]

This gradient estimator contains two expectations that we need to numerically approximate. First is computing \(R(\theta)\) itself, which is an expectation over starting states \(p(s_0)\). In my previous blog post I mentioned that accurate evaluation of a Binomial variable (e.g. the success rate of a robot on a single task) could require thousands of trials in order to achieve statistical certainty within a couple percent. For our hypothetical generalist robot, \(p(s_0)\) could encompass millions of unique tasks and scenarios, which makes accuate evaluation prohibitively expensive.

The second expectation is encountered in the estimation of the policy gradient, over \(p(\theta)\). Some algorithms like CMA-ES draw samples directly from the policy parameter distribution \(p(\theta)\), while other RL algorithms like PPO sample from the policy distribution \(p_\theta(a\vert s)\) and use the backpropagation rule to compute the gradient of the return with respect to the parameters: \(\frac{\partial R}{\partial \theta} = \frac{\partial R}{\partial \mu_a} \cdot \frac{\partial \mu_a}{\partial \theta}\). The latter is typically preferred because the search space on action parameters is thought to be smaller than the search space on policy parameters (and therefore requires fewer environment interactions to estimate a gradient for).

If supervised behavior cloning on a single oracle label \(a \sim p^\star(a\vert s)\) gives you some gradient vector \(g^\star\), estimating the same gradient vector \(\bar{g} \approx g^\star\) with reinforcement learning requires something on the order of \(O(H(s_0) \cdot H(a))\) times as many episode rollouts to get a comparably low-variance estimate. This is a hand-wavy estimate that assumes that there is a multiplicative factor of the entropy of the initial state distribution \(O(H(s_0))\) for estimating \(R(\theta)\) and a multiplicative factor of the entropy of the action distribution \(O(H(a))\) for estimating \(

abla_\theta R(\theta)\) itself.

Consequently, online reinforcement learning on sparse rewards and diverse, possibly multi-task environments require enormous numbers of rollouts to estimate returns and their gradients accurately. You have to pay this cost on every minibatch update! When the environment requires handling a wide variety of scenarios and demands generalization to unseen situations, it further increases the number of minibatch elements needed. The OpenAI DOTA team found that having millions of examples in their minibatch was required to bring down gradient noise to an acceptable level. This intuitively makes sense: if your objective \(R(\theta)\) has a minimum minibatch size needed to generalize well across many \(s_0\) without excessive catastrophic forgetting, then switching from supervised learning to online reinforcement learning will probably require a larger batch size by some multiplicative factor.

What about Offline RL?

What about offline RL methods like Deep Q-Learning on large datasets of \((S,A,R,S)\) transitions? These methods work by bootstrapping, where the target values that we regress value functions to are computed using a copy of the same networks best action-value estimate on the next state. The appeal of these offline reinforcement learning methods is that you can get optimal policies from diverse, off-policy data without having to interact with the environment. Modified versions of Q-learning like CQL work even better on offline datasets, and have shown promise on smaller-scale simulated control environments.

Unfortunately, bootstrapping does not mix well with generalization. It is folk knowledge that the deadly triad of function approximation, bootstrapping, and off-policy data make training unstable. I think this problem will only get worse as we scale up models and expect to train them on increasingly general tasks. This work shows that repeated bootstrapping iteratively decreases the capacity of the neural network. If you believe the claim that overparameterization of deep neural networks is key to generalization, then it would appear that for the same neural net architecture, offline RL is not quite as data absorbent as supervised learning.

In practice, even algorithms like CQL are still challenging to scale and debug on larger, real-world datasets; colleagues of mine tried several variations of AWAC and CQL on large-scale robotics problems and found them to be trickier to get them to work than naive methods like Behavior Cloning.

Instead of going through all this trouble, what if we lean into what deep nets excel at - sponging up data quickly with supervised learning and generalizing to massive datasets? Can we accomplish what RL sets out to do using the tools of generalization, rather than direct optimization?

Learn the Distribution instead of the Optimum

What if we make generalization the first-class citizen in algorithmic design, and tailor everything else in service of it? What if we could simply learn all the policies with supervised learning, and just ask nicely for the best one?

Consider the recent work on Decision Transformer (DT), whereby instead of modeling a single policy and iteratively improving it with reinforcement learning, the authors simply use supervised learning coupled with a sequential model to predict trajectories of many different policies. The model is conditioned with the Return-to-Go so that it may predict actions consistent with a policy that would achieve those returns. The DT simply models all policies - good and bad - with supervised learning, and then use the magic of deep learning generalization to infer from the expert-conditioned policy.

This phenomenon has been observed and developed in several prior and concurrent works, such as Reward-Conditioned Policies, Upside Down Reinforcement Learning and Reinforcement Learning as One Big Sequence Modeling Problem. The AlphaStar team also found that conditioning a model on human player skill level (e.g. future units they ended up build order, MMR, ELO scores) and using it to imitate all player data was superior to only imitating expert-level build orders. This technique is also commonly used in the Autonomous Vehicle space to model both good drivers and bad drivers jointly, even though the autonomous policy is only ever deployed to imitate good driving behavior.

Hindsight Language Relabeling

At a high level, DTs condition the supervised learning objective on some high level description \(g\) that partitions what the policy will do in the future based on that value of \(g\). The return-to-go is an especially salient quantity for a reinforcement learning task, but you can also express the future outcomes via a goal state or StarCraft build order or even a natural language description of what was accomplished.

In Learning Latent Plans from Play, the authors pair arbitrary trajectories with post-hoc natural language descriptions, and then train a model to clone those behaviors conditioned on language. At test time, they simply ask the policy to do a novel task in a zero-shot manner. The nice thing about these techniques is that they are indispensable for reaching sparse goals on RL tasks like Ant-Maze. This lends support to the claim that generalization and inference across goal-conditioning can do far better than brute force search for a single sparse goal in a long-horizon task.

Language is a particularly nice choice for conditioning because it can be used to partition a trajectory not just on skill level, but also by task, by how much the policy explores, how animal-like it is, and any other observations a human might make about the trajectory. Clauses can be composed ad-hoc without developing a formal grammar for all outcomes that the robot might accomplish. Language is an ideal fuzzy representation for the diversity of real-world outcomes and behaviors, which will become increasingly important as we want to partition increasingly diverse datasets.

Generalizing From Imperfect Demonstrations

A recent work I am quite inspired is D-REX, which tackles the problem of inferring the environments reward function from the demonstrations of a suboptimal policy. Classically, one requires making an assumption that the demonstrator is the optimal policy, from which you can use off-policy algorithms (e.g. Q-learning) to estimate the value function. Offline value estimation with deep neural nets can suffer from poor generalization to state-action pairs not in the demonstrator trajectory, and thus requires careful algorithmic tuning to make sure that the value function converges. An algorithm with poor convergence properties makes the propsects of minimizing training loss - and therefore generalization - tenuous. D-REX proposes a really clever trick to get around not having any reward labels at all, even when the demonstrator is suboptimal:

Given a suboptimal policy \(\pi_\theta\), generate trajectory rollouts \(\tau_1, \tau_2, ... \tau_N\) by having the policy interact with the environment. On each rollout, add variable amounts of noise \(\epsilon\) to its actions. Assume that adding noise to a suboptimal policy makes it even more suboptimal, i.e. \(R(\tau) \geq R(\tau + \epsilon)\). Train a ranking model \(f_\theta(\tau_i, \tau_j)\) to predict which of two trajectories \(\tau_i, \tau_j\) has a higher return. The ranking model magically extrapolates to trajectories that are better than what \(\pi_\theta\) can generate, even though the ranking model has never been trained on trajectories better than \(\pi_\theta\) itself.

I like this approach because ranking models are stable to train (they are just classifiers), and this method is able to achieve better-than-demonstrator behavior not through the explicit construction of the Bellman inequality or implicit planning through a learned model, but rather via extrapolation on a family of perturbations.

Do You Even Need RL to Improve from Experience?

In the above sections Ive described how you can generalize and infer to get around exploration and even inverse reinforcement learning from sparse rewards. But what about improving from a policys own experience, tabular rasa? This is the main reason why people put up with the pain of implementing RL algorithms. Can we replace this with supervised learning algorithms and a bit of generalization as well?

The goal of RL is to go from the current set of parameters \(\theta^{n}\) and some collected policy experience \(\tau\) to a new set of parameters \(\theta^{n+1}\) that achieves a higher episode return. Instead of using a proper RL algorithm to update the agent, could we just learn this mapping \(f: (\theta^{n}, \tau) \to \theta^{n+1}\) via supervised deep learning?

This idea is sometimes referred to as meta-reinforcement learning, because it involves learning a better reinforcement learning function than off-the-shelf RL algorithms. My colleagues and I applied this idea to a project where we trained a neural network to predict improved policy behavior from a video of a lesser policys experience. I could imagine this idea being combined with ranking and trajectory augmentation ideas from D-REX to further generalize the policy improvement behavior. Even if we never train on optimal policy trajectories, perhaps sufficient data augmentation can also lead to a general improvement operator that extrapolates to the optimal policy regime of parameters.

People often conflate this policy improvement behavior with reinforcement learning algorithms like DQN and PPO, but behavior is distinct from implementation. The policy improvement operator \(f: (\theta^{n}, \tau) \to \theta^{n+1}\) can be learned via your choice of reinforcement learning or supervised learning, but is deployed in a RL-like manner for interacting with the environment.

The Just-Ask-Generalization Recipe

Here is a table summarizing the previously mentioned RL problems, and comparing how each of them can be tackled with a generalize-and-infer approach instead of direct optimization.

Goal Direct Optimization Approach Generalize + Inference Approach Reinforcement Learning with Sparse Rewards Find \(p^\star(a_t\vert s_t)\) s.t. \(R_t=1\), brute force exploration DT: Learn \(p(a_t\vert s_t,R_t)\) from many policies, infer \(p(a_t\vert s_t, R_t=1)\). H.E.R - Infer tasks for which gathered trajectories are optimal, then learn \(p(\text{trajectory}\vert \text{task})\). Then infer optimal trajectory for desired task. Learn a Reward Function from Suboptimal Trajectories Offline Inverse RL D-REX: Trajectory augmentation + Extrapolate to better trajectories. Improve the policy from experience Q-Learning, Policy Gradient Watch-Try-Learn: Learn \(p(\theta^{n+1} \vert \theta^n , \tau, \text{task})\) Fine-tune a simulated policy in a real-world environment Sample-efficient RL fine-tuning Domain Randomization: train on a distribution of simulators, and the policy infers which world it is in at test time.

The high-level recipe is simple. If you want to find the solution \(y_i\) for a problem \(x_i\), consider setting up a dataset of paired problems and solutions \((x_1, y_1), ..., (x_N, y_N)\) and then training a deep network \(y = f_\theta(x)\) that simply maps your problems to solutions. Then substitute your desired \(x_i\) and have the deep network infer the solution \(y_i\) via generalization. Problem is meant in the most abstract of terms and can refer to a RL environment, a dataset, or even a single example. Solutions could be represented as the optimal parameters of a policy or a neural network, or a single prediction.

Techniques like goal relabeling help generate post-hoc problems from solutions, but building such a dataset can also be achieved via data augmentation techniques. At its core, we are transforming a difficult optimization problem into an inference problem, and training a supervised learning model on a distribution of problems for which its comparatively cheap to obtain solutions.

To summarize the recommendations in a three-step recipe:

Choose a method capable of minimizing training loss on massive datasets, i.e. supervised learning with maximum likelihood. This will facilitate scaling to complex, diverse datasets and getting the most generalization mileage out of your compute budget. If you want to learn \(p(y\vert x, \text{task}=g^\star)\) for some prediction task \(g^\star\), try learning \(p(y\vert x, \text{task})\) for many related but different tasks \(g \sim p(g), g

eq g^\star\) Then at test time just condition on \(g^\star\). Formulate conditioning variables that help partition the data distribution while still admitting generalization on held-out samples from \(p(g)\). Natural language encoding is a good choice.

The insight that we can cast optimization problems into inference problems is not new. For example, the SGD optimizer can be cast as approximate Bayesian inference and so can optimal control via AICO. These works present a theoretical justification as to why inference can be a suitable replacement for optimization, since the problems and algorithms can be translated back and forth.

Im suggesting something slightly different here. Instead of casting a sequential decision making problem into an equivalent sequential inference problem, we construct the meta-problem: a distribution of similar problems for which its easy to obtain the solutions. We then solve the meta-problem with supervised learning by mapping problems directly to solutions. Dont overthink it, just train the deep net in the simplest way possible and ask it for generalization!

Perhaps in the near future we will be able to prompt-engineer such language-conditioned models with the hint Generalize to unseen .

Just ask for  Consciousness?

How far can we stretch the principle of generalize-and-infer as an alternative to direct optimization? Here is a recipe for consciousness which would probably be better pondered over some strong drinks:

Train a language-conditioned multi-policy model \(p_\theta(a\vert s, g)\) (implemented via a Decision Transformer or equivalent) to imitate a variety of policies \(\pi_1, ..., \pi_N\) conditioned on natural language descriptions \(g\) of those agents. At test time, some default policy \(p(a\vert s, g=\text{Behave as myself})\) interacts with another agent \(\pi_\text{test}\) for a number of steps, after which we instruct the model to behave as if you were \(\pi_\text{test}\). The model would require a sort of meta-cognition of others capability, since it would have to infer what policy \(\pi_\text{test}\) would do in a particular situation. We make a copy of the multi-policy model \(p_\phi \sim p_\theta\), and embed multiple test-time iterations of step (1) within a single episode, with dozens of agents. Two of these agents are initially conditioned as \(p_\theta(a\vert s, g=\text{Behave as myself})\) and \(p_\phi(a\vert s, g=\text{Behave as myself})\). This generates episodes where some agents imitate other agents, and all agents observe this behavior. Then we ask \(p_\phi\) to emit actions with the conditioning context behave as if you were \(\pi_\theta\) pretending to be you. This would require \(\pi_\phi\) to model \(\pi_\theta\)s imitation capabilities, as well as what information \(\pi_\theta\) knows about \(\pi_\phi\), on the fly.

Researchers like Jurgen Schmidhuber have previously discussed how dynamics models (aka World Models) of embodied agents are already conscious, because successful modeling the dynamics of the environment around oneself necessitates a representation of the self as an embodied participant in the environment.

While I think that self-representation is a necessity in planning and dynamics prediction problems, I think the framework is too vacuous to be of use in reproducing a convincing imitation of consciousness. After all, any planning algorithm that represents the self explicitly within each imagined trajectory rollout would be conscious under this definition. An A* maze-planner would satisfy this definition of consciousness.

What Im proposing is implementing a more convincing form of consciousness, not based on a necessary representation of the self for planning, but rather an understanding of the self that can be transmitted through language and behavior unrelated to any particular objective. For instance, the model needs to not only understand not only how a given policy regards itself, but how a variety of other policies might interpret the behavior of a that policy, much like funhouse mirrors that distort ones reflection. The hypothesis is that through demonstrating this understanding of distorted self-reflection, the policy will learn to recognize itself and model the internal motivations and beliefs of other agents in agent-agent interactions.

There are some important implementation details that I havent fleshed out yet, but at high level, I do think that supervised learning and natural language conditioning with enormous agent-interaction datasets are sufficiently powerful tools to learn interesting behaviors. Imbuing agents with some kind of meta-cogition ability of the self and other agents is an important step towards a convincing imitation of consciousness.

Acknowledgements

Thanks to Daniel Freeman, David Ha, Karol Hausman, Irwan Bello, Igor Mordatch, and Vincent Vanhoucke for feedback and discussion on earlier drafts of this work.

References

Generalization and scaling:

RL challenges:

Hindsight Imitation

Replacing RL with Supervised Learning

Q/A

Igor Mordatch supplied interesting questions and comments in reviewing this blog post. I have paraphrased his questions here and added responses in this section.

1. You discussed Supervised Learning and Reinforcement Learning. What do you think about Unsupervised Learning and The Cake Analogy?

I consider unsupervised learning to be simply supervised learning for a different task, with comparable gradient variance, since targets are not usually noisly estimated beyond augmentation. Maximum likelihood estimation and contrastive algorithms like InfoNCE seem to be both useful for facilitating generalization in large models.

2. For the first difficulty of RL (evaluating success), arent there parallels to current generative models too? Success evaluation is hard for language models, as evidenced by dissatisfaction with BLEU scores and difficulty of evaluating likelihoods with non-likelihood based generative image models.

There are parallels to likelihood-free generative models which require extensive compute for either training or sampling or likelihood evaluation. In practice, however, I think the burdens of evaluation are not directly comparable, since the computational expense of marginalization over observations for such models is dwarfed by the marginalization of success rate estimation in RL. In RL, you have to roll out the environment over O(coin flips) x O(initial state distribution) x O(action distribution) in order to get a low-variance policy gradient for improved success across all states and tasks. O(coin flips) is O(1000) samples for local improvement of a couple percent with statistical certainty, wheras I think that typically the marginalization costs of implicit likelihood tends to be cheaper with tricks like Langevin sampling O(minibatch=32). Also, the backprop passes used in Langevin dynamics are usually cheaper than running full environment simulations with a forward pass of the neural net on every step.

3. One of the findings of current language model work is that proxy objectives for what you really want are good enough. Simple next-token prediction induces generalization. But alignment to what you really want is still a hard problem in large model field and we dont have good answers there yet (and ironically many attempts so far relied on incorporation of RL algorithms).

Alignment objectives may lack a per-example surrogate loss. But under the generalize-then-infer school of thought, I would simply recommend learning \(p(y\vert x, \text{alignment objective})\) with max likelihood over numerous hindsight alignment objectives, and then simply condition on the desired alignment object at test time. One could obtain a distribution of alignment descriptions by simply running the model live, and then hindsight labeling with the corresponding alignment realized by the model. Then we simply invoke this meme by Connor Leahy:

Just asking the AI to be nice sounds flippant, but after seeing DALL-E and other large-scale multi-modal models that seem to generalize better as they get bigger, I think we should take these simple, borderline-naive ideas more seriously.

4. For the second difficulty of RL (gradient estimation), we know that for settings where you can backprop through environment dynamics to get exact policy gradient, doing so often leads to worse results.

This reminds me of an old FB comment by Yann Lecun that a better way to estimate Hessian-vector products with ReLU activations is to use a stochastic estimator rather than computing the analytical hessian, since the 2nd-order curvature of ReLU is 0 and what you actually want is the Hessian-vector product of the smoothed version of the function.

If you need to relax the dynamics or use an unbiased stochastic estimator to train through a differentiable simulator, then I think youre back to where youre starting with expensive evaluation, since presumably you need many rollouts to smooth out the simulator function and reduce variance. However, maybe the number of samples you need to estimate a smoothed policy gradient is a reasonable tradeoff here and this is a nice way to obtain gradients.

5. Why hasnt something as simple as what you propose (generalize-then-infer) been done already?

Some researchers out there are probably pursuing this already. My guess is that the research community tends to reward narratives that increase intellectual complexity and argue that we need better algorithms. People pay lip service to simple ideas but few are willing to truly pursue simplicity to its limit and simply scale up existing ideas.

Another reason would be that researchers often dont take generalization for granted, so its often quicker to think about adding explicit inductive biases rather than thinking about generalization as a first-class citizen and then tailoring all other design decisions in support of it.

6. How does your consciousness proposal relate to ideas from Schmidhubers consciousness in world models ideas, Fristons Free Energy Principle, and Hawkins memory of thoughts?

I consider Schmidhuber and Fristons unified theories as more or less stating optimal control requires good future prediction and future prediction with me in it requires self-representation. If we draw an analogy to next-word prediction in large language models, maybe optimizing next state prediction perfectly is sufficient for subsuming all consciousness-type behaviors like theory-of-mind and the funhouse self-reflections I mentioned above. However, this would require an environment where predicting such dynamics accurately has an outsized impact on observation likelihoods. One critique I have about Schmidhuber and Fristons frameworks is that they are too general, and can be universally applied to sea slugs and humans. If a certain environmental complexity is needed for future prediction to give rise to something humans would accept as conscious, then the main challenge is declaring what the minimum complexity would be.

Hawkins consciousness as memory of perception seems to be more related to the subjective qualia aspect of consciousness rather than theory of mind. Note that most people do not consider a program that concatenates numpy arrays to be capable of experiencing qualia in the way humans do. Perhaps what is missing is the meta-cognition aspect - the policy needs to exhibit behaviors suggesting that it contemplates the fact that it experiences things. Again, this requires a carefully designed environment that demands such meta-cognition behavior.

I think this could emerge from training for the theory-of-mind imitation problems I described above, since the agent would need to access a consistent representation about how it perceives things and transform it through a variety of other agents lenses. The flexibility of being able to project ones own representation of sensory observations through ones representation of other agents sensory capabilities is what would convince me that the agent understands that it can do sufficient meta-cognition about qualia.

7. Your formulation of consciousness only concerns itself with theory-of-mind behavior. What about attention behavior?

See the second paragraph of the response to #6.

Update 20211025: Updated with a paraphrased question from Alexander Terenin

8. In Rich Suttons Bitter Lesson Essay, he argues that search and learning are both important. Do you really think that search can be completely replaced by a learned approach?

I agree that having a bit of light search in your program can be immensely helpful to learning and overall performance. Its a bit of a chicken/egg though. Does AlphaGo work because MCTS uses a learned value function to make search tractable? Or does the policy distillation only work because of search? Im suggesting that when search becomes too hard (most RL tasks), its time to use more learning. Youre still doing search when performing supervised learning - you just get a lot more gradient signal per flop of computation.
Acquisition

State Department offers glimpse of $8B IT services contract

Industry is got a more detailed glimpse at a five-year, $8 billion contract for IT services to the State Department ahead of an event held Oct. 25 to discuss the procurement.

With this draft request for proposals released Thursday, the departments office of information resource management also known as IRM indicates it intends to double the ceiling value from the previously-indicated $4 billion figure.

This multiple-award contract called "Evolve" is the successor to the Vanguard contract held by Science Applications International Corp. since 2010, according to Deltek data.

Awards will be broken out into these five pools or service areas: IT management, network and telecommunications, cloud computing and data centers, application development, and customer and end user services.

Pool 3 covering cloud and data center services is reserved for small businesses only, while the other four pools are full-and-open for all to bid as a prime contractor.

Companies should pay attention to this first rule of the road for EVOLVE: vendors in the IT management pool may not deliver services in the other four pools, or have partnerships or subcontracts with vendors providing services in said four pools.

Rule number two to take heed of is a vendor can only provide services as a prime contractor across no more than two pools.

This article was originally published in Washington Technology.
Young civic tech star featured in Boston Globe

It was a nice day for the civic tech movement and a nice day for government when the Boston Globe ran an entire article on 2020 Harvard grad Chris Kuang, head of the newly established U.S. Digital Corps, which plans to recruit technologists for two-year stints in the government. Most blog readers are probably familiar with the U.S. Digital Service, an Obama-era innovation that survived into the Trump administration and is continuing under Biden, which brought senior technologists, often from the Silicon Valley, into government to top up government tech talent. The newly create Digital Corps is aimed at new grads and early career professionals.

The Globe article is called This local Harvard grad is helping the Biden administration tackle tech problems, and is pegged around Kuangs Harvard background and his having grown up in a Boston suburb. I have featured Kuang and the student organization he founded as a sophomore with a few other students, called Coding it Forward, in earlier blog posts.

Kuang was a math and economics major who was also interested in politics and public service. As a freshman, he took a course with Nick Sinai, an Obama-era deputy CTO and tech entrepreneur. After that course, he got the idea to recruit students for summer tech internships (they carefully referred to them as fellowships rather than internships, because the latter word suggested to students doing grunt-like work installing SharePoint over the summer). Coding it Forward started with only six fellowships, and expanded each year Kuang was in college.

The idea for a Digital Corps was presented in a memo by Kuang and Sinai. It was circulated among Biden administration tech leaders, and they bought on and agreed to launch it. It was announced in late August.

The first group of 30 fellows, currently scheduled to work in five agencies, is planned for 2022. They will work in five agencies, including two  the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services -- that have been major sponsors of the Coding it Forward summer college fellowships. Also among the Corp sponsors is the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, important given the huge need for cyber talent in government.

Meanwhile, Kuang himself is now housed at GSAs Technology Transformation Service under an Intergovernmental Personnel Act arrangement that makes it possible for people from academia to work for government. (When I first worked in government at the Federal Trade Commission as an assistant professor many years ago, I did so under the auspices of this legislation.) So Kuang has sort of become a fed. I am guessing that when he was younger Kuang never expected to end up in that situation, so his path is great news that the government can be attractive for some very smart, very committed young people.

The projects the Digital Corps will work on have yet to be defined, but will revolve Biden administration priorities, including the coronavirus, economic recovery, cybersecurity and racial equality. If this works, Kuang hopes to expand the number of participants to hundreds each year.

The mission and the scope of the work thats found in the public sector is really second to none, he said. The sense of being a part of something more meaningful, and bigger than yourself, is really a huge appeal.

I have encouraged Kuang over the years to put an emphasis on trying to persuade some of the students to stay in the government after their fellowships were done. The new Digital Corps has greater prospects to do that, because it hopefully will bring some students into civic tech work before they have started down and become committed to another tech path in the private sector. This is an advantage over the U.S. Digital Service, which is more oriented toward taking people already in a track and have them do a short government detour. Another advantage of recruiting recent grads is that their tech skills will be more up-to-date than older techies in the private sector. On the other hand, the digital fellows will be less experienced than the older folks at USDS.

It will be very interesting to see how Kuangs idea works. The Digital Corps has not even started accepting applications yet (check their website for more information about how to apply). Kuang, meanwhile, has emerged as a rock star in the civic tech space.
New round will accelerate growth in providing students and teachers with the high-quality, digital-forward programs they need during the pandemic and beyond

BROOKLYN, N.Y., October 26, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Amplify, a publisher of next-generation curriculum and assessment programs, announced today it has raised $215 million in a growth funding round with Learn Capital and A-Street Ventures, joining current investor Emerson Collective in this round. The funding will accelerate Amplifys remarkable growth in providing students and teachers with high-quality, digital-forward instructional programs and helping districts address unfinished learning from the pandemic. Rob Hutter from Learn Capital and Marc Sternberg from A-Street Ventures have joined the companys board, currently made up of Emerson Collective Managing Director and XQ Institute CEO Russlynn Ali, Amplify CEO Larry Berger, Monarch Global Strategies President and CEO Michael Camunez, Emerson Collective Managing Director Brad Powell, and former Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings.

Amplify currently reaches more than 10 million students in 4,000 districts across all 50 states, with a growing international presence. All three of Amplifys existing core programs have garnered top ratings on third-party curriculum evaluation site EdReports.org, resulting in strong demand across the country, including in California, where Amplify Science was the lead publisher and won approximately 35 percent of the market in the most recent adoption. Digital supplemental program Amplify Reading also continues to gain traction, as does Amplifys gold-standard early reading assessment, mCLASS, which was recently selected as the K-3 formative and diagnostic assessment for North Carolinas Read to Achieve program. By meeting the demand for research-based, technology-enabled programs, Amplifys bookings have grown by 50 percent year-over-year for the last four years (2017-2020).

"Our educators and our students have been hit hard by the events of the last two years, which have only exacerbated existing gaps in reading and math skills. Amplify is working to provide the best resources possible to schools and districts while they work to recover and support all students in achieving at high levels," said board member and former secretary of education Margaret Spellings. "We are deeply grateful for our new partners, their K-12 expertise, and their ongoing commitment to investing in the high-quality, digital-forward learning our students need now and in the future."

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Amplify plans to use the funds to make strategic acquisitions in best-of-breed education companies and to accelerate product development across its portfolio, with a focus on its digital supplemental programs.

"Amplify has experienced remarkable growth for six years in a row, is profitable, and is earning the trust of teachers and students. This moment is urgent for accelerating our ability to serve the needs of schools and districts. The magnitude of learning loss and the range of hybrid models for delivering instruction call for the kinds of products that Amplify builds," said Larry Berger, chief executive officer of Amplify. "As impact-oriented investors, Emerson, Learn Capital, and A-Street Ventures raised a significant round in order to help us address these urgent needs by being a rapid reaction partner for districts across the country."

Learn Capital, based in Silicon Valley, is one of the worlds leading venture capital funds with a dedicated focus on education technology and companies that leverage technology for better and smarter learning worldwide.

"We focus on finding the most extraordinary teams working in education, and Amplify is a natural fit," said Rob Hutter, head of Learn Capital. "Amplify stands at the center of a profound shift in K12 curriculum delivery that pairs an acceleration of digital learning with an unprecedented emphasis on quality in core instructional materials design. Amplify is uniquely positioned to benefit from both of these trends, and were thrilled to have this opportunity to participate in the companys journey. "

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 with a current focus on digital-first instructional materials in curriculum and new paradigms for student assessment.

"At A-Street, we believe education can serve as a powerful engine of mobility, and now is the time for big leaps forward in transforming how students learn and how teachers teach," said Marc Sternberg, Founder and Managing Director of A-Street Ventures. "Thats why we are excited to partner with Amplify, a company that is lifting up the quality of daily instruction and leaning into digital-forward tools to accelerate learning."

"We could not be happier to have Rob Hutter and Marc Sternberg join the team," said Brad Powell, board member and managing director of Emerson Collective. "Rob and Marc each bring deep knowledge about K-12 education and share a long-term, impact-oriented vision to investment in this industry. They, along with their firms, will bring important new expertise to our governance, our network, and our brain trust. We are grateful to have such strong partners supporting Amplifys future growth."

About Amplify

A pioneer in K12 education since 2000, Amplify is leading the way in next-generation curriculum and assessment. Our captivating core and supplemental programs in ELA, math, and science engage all students in rigorous learning and inspire them to think deeply, creatively, and for themselves. Our formative assessment products turn data into practical instructional support to help all students build a strong foundation in early reading and math. All of our programs provide teachers with powerful tools that help them understand and respond to the needs of every student. Today, Amplify reaches more than ten million students in all 50 states. To learn more, visit https://amplify.com/.

About Emerson Collective

Emerson Collective deploys a wide range of toolsfrom impact investing to philanthropy to advocacyin pursuit of a more equal and just America. Emerson focuses on creating systemic change in education, immigration, climate, and cancer research and treatment. To learn more, visit https://www.emersoncollective.com/.

About Learn Capital

Learn Capital, based in Silicon Valley, is one of the worlds leading venture capital funds with a dedicated focus on education technology and companies that leverage technology for better and smarter learning worldwide. Since 2009, Learn Capital has backed extraordinary teams building market transforming services for every age and stage of learning, on nearly every continent. The company's practice spans seed, early stage and emerging growth companies that are committed to the improvement of individual and societal capacities at scale, propelling the generation of inclusive prosperity worldwide. For more information and to view the funds portfolio, please visit http://www.learncapital.com.

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.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005866/en/

Contacts

Kay Moffett

Chief Marketing Officer

kmoffett@amplify.com
These Reg Tech Innovators Now Offer A Comprehensive Cryptocurrency Payments Compliance Solution Designed For Fast Growing Crypto Businesses

NEW YORK & LONDON, October 26, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ComplyAdvantage, a global data technology company transforming financial crime detection, and Elliptic, the global leader in cryptoasset risk management solutions, today announced a new blockchain analysis and transaction monitoring tool that will help crypto firms detect and avoid financial crime.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005582/en/

Charles Delingpole, CEO of ComplyAdvantage (Photo: Business Wire)

The industry-first solution is powered by Elliptic Navigator, a crypto anti-money laundering (AML) monitoring platform. It allows fast-growing crypto firms to undertake continual AML monitoring, fraud and sanctions strategies that will help the industry avoid customers and clients who present a risk of involvement in financial crime, including the financing of terrorism.

The partnership comes at a critical time for the industry, as the ability to monitor crypto transactions has become considerably more challenging with the introduction of new services such as NFTs (non fungible tokens), privacy wallets, and decentralized finance (DeFi) networks. In response, more regulations have been published by the FATF (Financial Action Task Force) and the European Commission to provide greater certainty for any crypto assets that are not covered by existing financial services legislation.

By combining the two worlds of fiat and crypto risk assessment by integrating Elliptics blockchain analytics into the ComplyAdvantage platform, users will be able to consolidate their risk management processes, deep dive into blockchain transaction history and risk scoring, and reduce the time and cost spent on integrating compliance workflows between fiat and crypto.

New capabilities within the ComplyAdvantage platform include:

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 Detect High-Risk Crypto Transactions  Speed up compliance checks, minimize manual intervention, and reduce costs with automated transaction risk scoring based on Elliptics blockchain analytics.

 Identify High-Risk Customers  Monitor your customers crypto activity across all of their crypto transactions. Detect suspicious activity early, using sophisticated analytics and risk indicators from Elliptics dataset.

 Trace Source and Destination Funds  Review where a transaction came from, or where it is being sent, by leveraging Elliptic Navigators blockchain tracing capabilities to determine the ultimate source or destination of funds.

 Simplify SARS Submissions  Maintain a full audit trail of crypto transactions and export complete, accurate records to submit Suspicious Activity Reports (SARs) with ease.

"Empowering businesses with bank-grade payments risk solutions that integrate fiat and crypto capabilities is a critical step towards shaping a future of finance that includes virtual assets in a secure and trusted way," said Simone Maini, CEO, Elliptic. "Our partnership with ComplyAdvantage is an exciting opportunity to develop robust solutions that provide businesses with deep insight into a broad range of cryptoassets."

Elliptic Navigator is powered by Elliptics comprehensive data engine that has collected, labelled, analyzed, and risk scored blockchain data since as early as 2013. With 98% of daily crypto transactions monitored, the worlds largest crypto businesses and financial institutions such as Coinbase, Revolut, and Santander rely on Elliptic to understand and act on risk exposure to crypto by applying the highest levels of regulatory compliance rigour.

ComplyAdvantages unique hyperscale approach to risk management helps to detect transaction monitoring events while uncovering hidden risks throughout the customer lifecycle, helping fintechs like Paxos maintain the highest level of compliance oversight and integrity. This reduces dependence on manual review processes and legacy databases by up to 80% and improves how businesses like Paxos screen and monitor clients and transactions.

"By working with Elliptic we now offer a more comprehensive blockchain analysis transaction monitoring solution for our rapidly growing base of crypto customers," said Charlie Delingpole, founder and CEO of ComplyAdvantage. "Data is key to preventing financial crime and our hyperscale approach to risk management is enhanced through valuable partners like Elliptic."

Already the preferred choice of some of the worlds largest banks, enterprises, and high-growth fintechs, ComplyAdvantage uses machine learning to help regulated organizations manage their risk obligations and prevent financial crime. ComplyAdvantage was recently named as one of the world's most innovative companies by Fintech Global.

About ComplyAdvantage

ComplyAdvantage is the financial industrys leading source of AI-driven financial crime risk data and detection technology. ComplyAdvantages mission is to neutralize the risk of money laundering, terrorist financing, corruption, and other financial crime. More than 700 enterprises in 69 countries rely on ComplyAdvantage to understand the risk of who theyre doing business with through the world's only global, real-time database of people and companies. The company actively identifies tens of thousands of risk events from millions of structured and unstructured data points every single day.

ComplyAdvantage has four global hubs located in New York, London, Singapore and Cluj-Napoca and is backed by Goldman Sachs, Ontario Teachers, Index Ventures and Balderton Capital. Learn more at complyadvantage.com or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.

About Elliptic

Elliptic is the global leader in cryptoasset risk management for crypto businesses and financial institutions worldwide. Recognized as a WEF Technology Pioneer and backed by investors including Wells Fargo Strategic Capital, SBI Group, and Santander Innoventures, Elliptic has assessed risk on transactions worth several trillion dollars, uncovering activities related to money laundering, terrorist fundraising, fraud, and other financial crimes. Elliptic is headquartered in London with offices in New York, Singapore, and Tokyo. To learn more, visit www.elliptic.co and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005582/en/

Contacts

For ComplyAdvantage:

North America

Tim Donovan

+1.510.593.0064

Tim.Donovan@ComplyAdvantage.com



EMEA

Ben Goldsmith

+44.0.7788.295321

ben@goldsmithcomms.com



For Elliptic

press@elliptic.co
Laura Evans

WHIO-TV News Director

WHIO-TV News Director

DAYTON, Ohio, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cox Media Group (CMG) has announced that Laura Evans has been named News Director effective November 8. In this role, she will lead news operations for CMGs legendary WHIO-TV brand in Dayton, Ohio.



Evans joins CMG from KING 5 Media Group in Seattle where she served as interim news director. With twenty-three years of tv news and video production experience spanning six markets, five states, three countries and one province, Evans began her career as a producer for KRDO in Colorado, followed by producer roles at KVOA in Tucson, Ariz., KOAT in Albuquerque, N.M., KOMO in Seattle, Wash., KTXL in Sacramento, Calif., and CTV News in Vancouver, British Columbia.



Laura is a proven news leader with a passion for serving viewers with the highest quality journalism, said Rob Rohr, CMG Ohio Vice President/General Manager. The combination of her skills and leadership along with the incredibly passionate and talented news team at WHIO will enhance our product strategies and accelerate our regional news leadership to unprecedented levels across more platforms than ever before.



An Emmy winning journalist, Evanss tenure at KING 5 was underscored by the station receiving of some of the most coveted news awards in 2020 including the Peabody Award, Scripps Award, and Regional Murrow Award for outstanding community journalism.



I am honored to join the journalism legacy created at WHIO-TV, said Evans. Even more exciting, is the future of news and how distribution platforms will continue to evolve. I look forward to leading and working with the phenomenal WHIO-TV staff as we set the bar for journalism excellence, maintain a collaborative, innovative and inclusive environment while upholding WHIOs long-standing brand integrity and legacy.



Evans received a masters degree in Digital Audience Strategy from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism at Arizona State University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration.



About Cox Media Group

Cox Media Group, Inc. (CMG) is an industry-leading media company with dominant brands, award-winning content, and exceptional people. CMG provides valuable local content to viewers in the communities in which it serves. The company's operations primarily include 33 high-quality, market-leading television stations in 20 markets, 54 top-performing radio stations delivering all genres of content in 11 markets, and numerous streaming and digital platforms. CMG's portfolio includes primary affiliates of ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and MyNetworkTV, as well as several valuable news and independent stations. Additionally, the company also offers a full suite of national, regional, local and digital advertising services with CMG Local Solutions, CoxReps and Gamut. For more information about CMG, visit www.coxmediagroup.com.

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A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/069533e1-d845-49b4-ad64-77ccd98ecd4e

CONTACT: Media Inquiries: CMGMediaRelations@cmg.com




Exclusive program offers patients easy-to-secure appointments with more time, support and service

ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Concierge Choice Physicians (CCP), the nation's leading full-service concierge medical service provider, today announced that Maryam Zamanian, MD, one of Dallas and Plano's leading endocrinology and diabetes specialists, has enrolled in the company's Hybrid Choice program - an enhanced service that provides patients with more time for preventive wellness, medical support, and greater connectivity between doctor and patient. By enrolling in CCP's Hybrid Choice, Dr. Zamanian can now offer her patients the choice of joining a concierge programthe latest, most personal trend in the healthcare industryor continuing with a traditional model of care.

Dedicated to providing real options for patients and physicians, Concierge Choice Physicians (CCP) is the largest private provider of the full range of concierge programs available. CCP announced today the addition of 10 new practices, highlighting that in an uncertain healthcare marketplace, both physicians and patients want practice models that assure and protect provider choice and relationships. For more information visit www.choice.md. (PRNewsfoto/Concierge Choice Physicians)

For specialists like Dr. Zamanian, this blended approach to membership medicine offers significant advantages. Unlike traditional concierge programs, with CCP's Hybrid Choice, doctors are able to maintain their full medical practiceseeing all of patients and accepting insurance plans as beforewhile adding a new, private and stable revenue source. Patients who want more personalized support and attention can chose to join the concierge program, or remain a traditional patient. No patients are dismissed and referral networks remain intact.

"I saw there was a need for some of my patients to spend more time with me," said Dr. Zamanian, "but there is a high need for medical services in this area and I didn't want to do anything that would limit my ability to care for all my patients. The Hybrid Choice program offers the best solution for my patients and for my practice."

Dr. Zamanian is passionate about helping patients achieve better overall wellness and long-term health. However, the pressure that physicians like her now practice under can make it challenging to schedule prompt appointments or spend extended time on coaching and counseling. "Many of my patients are diabetic, dealing with metabolic or hormonal disorders, or managing other chronic conditions, and they often feel the need to see me right away when they have a health concern," says Dr. Zamanian. "Unfortunately, I can't always accommodate them. My Hybrid Choice program gives me the time in my schedule to support those patients who want that prompt and personalized attention. I am glad I can now offer my patients this choice."

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Patients who enroll in the Hybrid Choice program pay an annual fee that allows Dr. Zamanian to provide benefits such as: more time together in easy-to-secure appointments that generally start on time; easy ways to reach Dr. Zamanian directly, even after hours; enhanced care coordination with other health care professionals and Medical City Plano hospital; and a greater emphasis on preventive health and lifestyle coaching, including an extended annual examination with supplemental tests and services, and complimentary enrollment in Cleveland Heart Lab's exclusive "4myheart" program, a virtual health coaching program.

Dr. Zamanian's Hybrid Choice program is available for a membership fee. For more information, patients can call (877) 888-5590 or email members@choice.md

About Maryam Zamanian, MD

Dr. Zamanian's practice is located at 1600 Coit Road, Suite 208C in Plano, TX. She earned her medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School in Dallas, TX. She completed her internal medicine training at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas and her Endocrinology training at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. Shortly after her residency training, she engaged in private practice of internal medicine at Presbyterian Hospital of Dallas for a few years before pursuing a fellowship in Endocrinology. Double board-certified in Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism by the American Board of Internal Medicine, Dr. Zamanian uses her experience in internal medicine to provide the best possible treatment and care for Diabetes.

About Concierge Choice Physicians (CCP)

Dedicated to providing real options for patients and physicians, Concierge Choice Physicians is the largest private provider of the full range of concierge programs available todayHybrid and FullFlex. For nearly 20 years, the company has provided innovative, flexible and affordable models proven to work in medical practices of any sizefrom solo physicians to large medical practice corporationsboth independent and affiliated with hospitals or health systems. Headquartered in Rockville Centre, NY, the company has worked with over 500 physicians in 26 states. For more information, please visit www.choice.md.

Cision

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SOURCE CONCIERGE CHOICE PHYSICIANS
Words by Kate Zerrenner

Northampton, MA --News Direct-- TriplePundit

When Derek Ferguson was growing up in the Bronx, his parents saw the value of education, despite his mother never finishing college and his father never attending. They sent him to four different elementary schools in search of the best education possible, and he excelled in his studies. I had academic success, but I didn't see that I was different from the kid to the left of me or the right of me, he told TriplePundit. It was circumstance that changed our trajectories.

Now a successful businessman with two Ivy League degrees, Ferguson parlayed his business acumen into a leadership role at Robin Hood, a social venture philanthropy that funds poverty-fighting nonprofit organizations across New York City. Its Power Fund initiative, launched in June of last year, focuses on building up a network of nonprofit leaders of color who are measurably and sustainably lifting New Yorkers out of poverty to enjoy productive lives, Ferguson said.

As the interim CEO of Robin Hood, Ferguson sees the Power Fund as a new resource to clear roadblocks for the more than 1.5 million New Yorkers who live near or below the poverty line, 80 percent of whom are people of color.

Lifting up nonprofit leaders of color to fight poverty

Although philanthropic giving has increased by 400 percent over the past two decades, only 10 percent of those dollars went to organizations led by people of color. Organizations led by women of color receive even less investment. The Power Fund aims to address this disparity by investing in the most impactful nonprofit organizations led by people of color across the five boroughs.

The work of these leaders is informed by both professional expertise and personal experience, Ferguson said. Typically, philanthropic dollars havent been going to leaders of color, he told us. But were seeing better outcomes with leaders of color who are driving the organizations in the neighborhoods where they grew up. We call it proximity: If youre closer to the problem, youre closer to the solution.

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Its common sense to invest in solutions by people who understand the problem, but by funding these organizations, Robin Hood also seeks opportunities that other funders have likely overlooked. The mere fact that youre missing access to a whole group of people means youre missing the most effective ways to combat issues, Ferguson said. We cant say were addressing it unless weve expanded the net to consider everyone in our grant-making.

How the Power Fund works

The Power Funds approach to investment is to finance the vision and human capital that already exists. Robin Hood aims to be a supporter, rather than trying to change the approach grantees take. These organizations have long track records of success, Ferguson explained. The ultimate goal of the Power Fund is to influence our entire grantmaking portfolio, using proximity and lived experiences as thresholds for future grantmaking in our fight against poverty.

Case in point: Once a nonprofit organization becomes a grantee or community partner, they get access to Robin Hoods management assistance services  including everything from support with strategy and technology to board development  which bridge any gaps for more effective management and greater impact. Were very cognizant that philanthropy alone wont solve all the issues, but through the Power Fund we are building partnerships across sectors that can help make a difference, Ferguson said.

Robin Hoods more than 30 years of experience in funding nonprofit leaders is beneficial for attracting other investors as well. Initial investment in the Power Fund Initiative came from Capital One, BlackRock, Macquarie Investment Management Foundation and others. It was an organic process to become partners with the Power Fund initiative, said LaKia Williams, director of community impact and investment and Northeast market lead for Capital One. In the first cohort of grantees, a few were already partners with us.

Several elements came together at the right time for the Power Fund. Our nation is experiencing a moment of reckoning, Williams said, and the Power Fund elevates the influence of leaders of color. Racial injustice interplays with every part of our lives and impedes progress. Leaders of color bring strategies that intimately understand racialized experiences and solutions.

Further, historically, nonprofit leaders of color have had barriers in obtaining access to capital. The Power Fund leaders are solid and strong and should be on an equal playing field with other organizations, Williams said. To that end, Capital One has gone beyond funding the initiative to seek out additional ways to partner: The company is looking at a platform of resources, including networking opportunities and pitch competitions for nonprofit leaders of color.

Power Fund grantees tackle poverty in New York City

Robin Hood and the Power Fund prioritize creating opportunities to put New Yorkers on pathways out of poverty. We focus on each stage of life, from prenatal to adult, Ferguson said, and think about the interventions needed at each stage to help move people out of poverty  for good.

For example, one Power Fund grantee, LaRay Brown, executive director and CEO of One Brooklyn Health System (OBHS), is a leader in narrowing the disparities in maternal health. In the U.S., Black women have pregnancy-related mortality rates that are three times higher than white women, most of which are preventable with appropriate prenatal care. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, factors that contribute to these disparities include variations in quality healthcare, structural racism and implicit bias.

OBHS has three hospitals with historical ties to the neighborhoods they serve in central Brooklyn. The American Medical Association notes that meeting people where they are is a significant factor in improving health outcomes for Black Americans. Knowing the people in your community and fostering trust is critical to be able to provide adequate knowledge and health care, and groups like OBHS are well positioned to do just that.

For a different life inflection point, grantees such as Jessica Santana and Evin Robinson, co-founders of America On Tech, help train young people to prepare them for jobs in the technology industry. Both founders are Bronx natives who left successful tech careers to elevate students from their own neighborhoods.

With America On Tech, high schoolers in New York City and Los Angeles have the opportunity to learn skills including coding, web development and digital marketing. Thats important in an increasingly digital world in which only 5 percent of tech jobs are held by Black, Indigenous or Latinx people. In information technology, the number rises to just 14 percent, and the ratios are even starker for women of color. Training people for those jobs is critical, but having role models who look like the students and understand the obstacles they face is just as important.

The bottom line

Derek Ferguson was fortunate to have a family who pushed him academically and made sure he had opportunities to excel. He was also fortunate that he did not have a life-altering event to knock him off course. But he recognizes that because of this, he can play a role in seeing that kids who grew up in neighborhoods similar to his own in the Bronx also have access to those opportunities.

There was nothing about most of my peers that said they couldnt do the same as me, he told 3p. Given the opportunity, theres so much productivity and impact that can be gained if we give people who are resourceful, clever and capable the resources. If you give them the resources, theyll have extraordinary success. The Power Fund can continue building on that vision proves that to be true.

This article series is sponsored by Capital One and produced by the TriplePundit editorial team.

Image credit:

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from TriplePundit on 3blmedia.com

View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/this-fund-aims-to-boost-racial-representation-in-the-nonprofit-c-suite-178291542
Shreveport, Louisiana, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana (the Company) (Nasdaq: HFBL), the holding company of Home Federal Bank, reported net income for the three months ended September 30, 2021 of $1.4 million compared to net income of $1.2 million reported for the three months ended September 30, 2020. The Companys basic and diluted earnings per share were $0.42 and $0.38, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to basic and diluted earnings per share (split adjusted) of $0.38 and $0.37, respectively, for the three months ended September 30, 2020.

The Company reported the following key achievements during the three months ended September 30, 2021:

Total deposits increased $987,000 or 0.2% to $507.6 million at September 30, 2021, compared to $506.6 million at June 30, 2021, however time deposits decreased $14.2 million, or 13.0%, to $94.8 million at September 30, 2021, compared to $109.0 million at June 30, 2021.

Total mortgage loans originated for sale were $28.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021. The pipeline for mortgage originations remains strong going into our second fiscal quarter.

In July 2021, we announced plans to enter the Minden, Louisiana market area. In September 2021, we opened a loan production office with a team of five seasoned local bankers.

Core loans for the three months ended September 30, 2021 increased $21.2 million, or 6.9%, from $308.6 million at September 30, 2021, compared to $329.8 million at June 30, 2021. Core loans are total gross loans less the PPP loans. The pipeline for our commercial loan originations remains strong.

In light of the events surrounding the COVID-19 epidemic, the Company is continually assessing the effects of the pandemic on its employees, customers and communities. In March 2020, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the CARES Act) was enacted. The CARES Act contains many provisions related to banking, lending, mortgage forbearance and taxation. The Company has worked diligently to help support its customers through the SBA Paycheck Protection Program (SBA PPP), loan modifications and loan deferrals. On December 27, 2020, the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Nonprofits, and Venues Act (the Economic Aid Act) became law. The Economic Aid Act extended the authority to make SBA PPP loans through May 31, 2021. As of September 30, 2021, Home Federal Bank has funded 597 SBA PPP loans totaling approximately $68.8 million to existing customers and key prospects located primarily in our trade area of NW Louisiana. Our commercial lenders and operational support staff have worked diligently to accomplish what seemed to be an insurmountable task in providing a lifeline to our small community businesses. We believe the customer interaction during this time provides a real opportunity to broaden and deepen our customer relationships while benefiting our community. We have had $55.4 million of SBA PPP loans that have been forgiven which represents 80.5% of the total amount of loans funded. The provision for loan losses for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was none compared to $700,000 for the three months ended September 30, 2020. The decrease is mainly due to improved economic quality factors along with an improvement in our overall credit quality.

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The increase in net income for the three months ended September 30, 2021, as compared to the prior year quarter resulted primarily from a $700,000, or 100.0%, decrease in provision for loan losses, and an increase of $237,000, or 5.9%, in net interest income, partially offset by a decrease of $690,000, or 40.4%, in non-interest income, an increase of $112,000, or 3.3%, in non-interest expense, and a $29,000, or 9.0%, increase in provision for income taxes. The increase in net interest income for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was primarily due to a $447,000, or 44.8%, decrease in total interest expense, partially offset by a $210,000, or 4.2%, decrease in total interest income. The decrease in total interest expense was primarily due to a decrease of 50 basis points in the average rate on total interest-bearing deposits. The Companys average interest rate spread was 2.98% for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to 2.92% for the three months ended September 30, 2020. The Companys net interest margin was 3.16% for the three months ended September 30, 2021 compared to 3.21% for the three months ended September 30, 2020.

The following table sets forth the Companys average balances and average yields earned and rates paid on its interest-earning assets and interest-bearing liabilities for the periods indicated.

For the Three Months Ended September 30, 2021 2020 Average Average Average Average Balance Yield/Rate Balance Yield/Rate (Dollars in thousands) Interest-earning assets: Loans receivable $ 342,942 5.09 % $ 373,311 4.94 % Investment securities 86,350 1.57 58,881 2.15 Interest-earning deposit 101,732 0.14 60,651 0.12 Total interest-earning assets $ 531,024 3.57 % $ 492,843 4.01 % Interest-bearing liabilities: Savings accounts $ 133,140 0.32 % $ 90,621 0.69 % NOW accounts 48,389 0.11 40,611 0.32 Money market accounts 86,991 0.12 73,180 0.41 Certificates of deposit 101,364 1.50 156,320 1.79 Total interest-bearing deposits 369,884 0.57 360,732 1.07 Other bank borrowings 1,376 3.17 1,752 3.17 FHLB advances 861 4.61 1,010 4.71 Total interest-bearing liabilities $ 372,121 0.59 % $ 363,494 1.09 %

The $690,000 decrease in non-interest income for the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the prior year quarterly period, was primarily due to a decrease of $702,000 in gain on sale of loans, a $7,000 decrease in income from bank owned life insurance, and a $1,000 decrease in other income, partially offset by a $20,000 increase in service charges on deposit accounts. The Company sells most of its long-term fixed rate residential mortgage loan originations primarily in order to manage interest rate risk.

The $112,000 increase in non-interest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to the same period in 2020, is primarily attributable to increases of $53,000 in occupancy and equipment expense, $48,000 in advertising expense, $22,000 in franchise and bank shares tax expense, $19,000 in other non-interest expenses, $13,000 in data processing expense, $8,000 in deposit insurance premiums expense, and $6,000 in audit and examination fees. The increases were partially offset by decreases of $31,000 in legal fees, $22,000 in loan and collection expense, and $4,000 in compensation and benefits expense.

At September 30, 2021, the Company reported total assets of $566.8 million, an increase of $1.1 million, or 0.2%, compared to total assets of $565.7 million at June 30, 2021. The increase in assets was comprised primarily of increases in investment securities of $4.7 million, or 5.6%, from $84.3 million at June 30, 2021 to $88.9 million at September 30, 2021, loans receivable, net of $3.0 million, or 0.9%, from $336.4 million at June 30, 2021 to $339.4 million at September 30, 2021, and premises and equipment of $896,000, or 6.0%, from $14.9 million at June 30, 2021 to $15.8 million at September 30, 2021. These increases were partially offset by decreases in loans held-for-sale of $3.9, or 26.7%, from $14.9 million at June 30, 2021 to $10.6 million at September 30, 2021, cash and cash equivalents of $3.1 million, or 3.0%, from $104.4 million at June 30, 2021 to $101.3 million at September 30, 2021, deferred tax assets of $265,000, or 32.4%, from $819,000 at June 30, 2021 to $554,000 at September 30, 2021, and other assets of $261,000, or 2.6%, from $10.1 million at June 30, 2021 to $9.9 million at September 30, 2021. The increase in investment securities was primarily due to security purchases of $9.9 million offset by principal repayments on mortgage backed securities of $5.2 million.

Total liabilities increased $125,000, or 0.02%, from $513.0 million at June 30, 2021 to $513.1 million at September 30, 2021 primarily due to increases in total deposits of $987,000, or 0.2%, to $507.6 million at September 30, 2021 compared to $506.6 million at June 30, 2021, and $446,000, or 14.2%, in other liabilities from $3.1 million at June 30, 2021 to $3.6 million at September 30, 2021, partially offset by a decrease of $1.3 million, or 54.2%, in other borrowings from $2.4 million at June 30, 2021 to $1.1 million at September 30, 2021, and a decrease of $8,000, or 0.9%, in advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank from $867,000 at June 30, 2021 to $859,000 at September 30, 2021. The increase in deposits was primarily due to a $14.2 million, or 10.8%, increase in non-interest bearing deposits from $131.0 million at June 30, 2021 to $145.2 million at September 30, 2021, and a $5.6 million, or 4.3%, increase in savings deposits from $129.1 million at June 30, 2021 to $134.7 million at September 30, 2021, partially offset by a decrease of $14.2 million, or 13.0%, in certificates of deposit from $109.0 million at June 30, 2021 to $94.8 million at September 30, 2021, a $3.1 million, or 3.5%, decrease in money market deposits from $88.2 million at June 30, 2021 to $85.1 million at September 30, 2021, and a decrease in NOW accounts of $1.6 million, or 3.2%, from $49.3 million at June 30, 2021 to $47.7 million at September 30, 2021. The Company had $9.1 million in brokered deposits at September 30, 2021 compared to $10.7 million at June 30, 2021. The decrease in advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank was primarily due to principal paydowns on amortizing advances.

At both September 30, 2021 and June 30, 2021, the Company had $1.4 million of non-performing assets (defined as non-accruing loans, accruing loans 90 days or more past due, and other real estate owned), consisting of six commercial real estate loans to one borrower, two single-family residential loans, and one commercial real estate property and one single family residence in other real estate owned at September 30, 2021, compared to six commercial real estate loans to one borrower, three single-family residential loans, and one commercial real estate property and one single family residence in other real estate owned at June 30, 2021. At September 30, 2021, the Company had one single family residential loan and eight commercial real estate loans classified as substandard compared to two single family residential loans and eight commercial real estate loans classified as substandard at June 30, 2021. There were no loans classified as doubtful at September 30, 2021 or June 30, 2021.

Shareholders equity increased $959,000, or 1.8%, to $53.7 million at September 30, 2021 from $52.7 million at June 30, 2021. The primary reasons for the changes in shareholders equity from June 30, 2021 were net income of $1.4 million, the vesting of restricted stock awards, stock options, and the release of employee stock ownership plan shares totaling $136,000, and proceeds from the issuance of common stock from the exercise of stock options of $166,000, partially offset by the repurchase of Company stock of $334,000, dividends paid totaling $335,000, and a decrease in the Companys accumulated other comprehensive income of $27,000.

The Company repurchased 6,000 shares of its common stock during the three months ended September 30, 2021 at an average price per share of $18.78. On November 18, 2020, the Company announced that its Board of Directors approved a tenth stock repurchase program for the repurchase of up to 170,000 shares (split adjusted). As of September 30, 2021, there were 128,600 shares remaining for repurchase under the tenth stock repurchase program.

Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana is the holding company for Home Federal Bank which conducts business from its seven full-service banking offices and home office in northwest Louisiana.

Statements contained in this news release which are not historical facts may be forward-looking statements as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. They often include words like believe, expect, anticipate, estimate, and intend, or future or conditional verbs such as will, would, should, could, or may. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

In addition to factors previously disclosed in the reports filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission and those identified elsewhere in this press release, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking statements or historical performance: the strength of the United States economy in general and the strength of the local economies in which the Company conducts its operations; general economic conditions; the scope and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic; the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, including on the Companys credit quality and operations as well as its impact on general economic conditions; legislative and regulatory changes including actions taken by governmental authorities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic; monetary and fiscal policies of the federal government; changes in tax policies, rates and regulations of federal, state and local tax authorities including the effects of the Tax Reform Act; changes in interest rates, deposit flows, the cost of funds, demand for loan products and the demand for financial services, in each case as may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, competition, changes in the quality or composition of the Companys loans, investment and mortgage-backed securities portfolios; geographic concentration of the Companys business; fluctuations in real estate values; the adequacy of loan loss reserves; the risk that goodwill and intangibles recorded in the Companys financial statements will become impaired; changes in accounting principles, policies or guidelines and other economic, competitive, governmental and technological factors affecting the Companys operations, markets, products, services and fees.

Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION (In thousands) September 30, 2021 June 30, 2021 (Unaudited) ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents $ 101,256 $ 104,405 Securities available-for-sale at fair value 26,974 29,550 Securities held-to-maturity (fair value September 30, 2021: $61,775; June 30, 2021: $54,608) 61,969 54,706 Loans held-for-sale 10,573 14,427 Loans receivable, net of allowance for loan losses (September 30, 2021: $4,127; June 30, 2021: $4,121) 339,424 336,394 Premises and equipment, net 15,811 14,915 Deferred tax asset 554 819 Real estate owned 383 383 Other assets 9,871 10,132 Total assets $ 566,815 $ 565,731 LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS EQUITY Deposits $ 507,583 $ 506,596 Advances from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Dallas 859 867 Other Borrowings 1,100 2,400 Other liabilities 3,589 3,143 Total liabilities 513,131 513,006 Shareholders equity 53,684 52,725 Total liabilities and shareholders equity $ 566,815 $ 565,731





Home Federal Bancorp, Inc. of Louisiana CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME (In thousands, except per share data) Three Months Ended September 30, 2021 2020 (Unaudited) Interest income Loans, including fees $ 4,397 $ 4,647 Other investment securities -- 2 Mortgage-backed securities 341 317 Other interest-earning assets 36 18 Total interest income 4,774 4,984 Interest expense Deposits 529 971 Federal Home Loan Bank borrowings 10 14 Other bank borrowings 11 12 Total interest expense 550 997 Net interest income 4,224 3,987 Provision for loan losses -- 700 Net interest income after provision for loan losses 4,224 3,287 Non-interest income Gain on sale of loans 709 1,411 Income on bank owned life insurance 27 34 Service charges on deposit accounts 268 248 Other income 12 13 Total non-interest income 1,016 1,706 Non-interest expense Compensation and benefits 2,210 2,214 Occupancy and equipment 429 376 Data processing 207 194 Audit and examination fees 72 66 Franchise and bank shares tax 130 108 Advertising 74 26 Legal fees 100 131 Loan and collection 72 94 Deposit insurance premium 38 30 Other expenses 203 184 Total non-interest expense 3,535 3,423

Income before income taxes 1,705 1,570

Provision for income tax expense 352

323 NET INCOME $ 1,353

$

1,247

EARNINGS PER SHARE Basic $ 0.42

$

0.38

Diluted $

0.38

$

0.37







Three Months Ended September 30, 2021 2020 Selected Operating Ratios(1): Average interest rate spread 2.98 % 2.92 % Net interest margin 3.16 % 3.21 % Return on average assets 0.95 % 0.94 % Return on average equity 10.29 % 9.97 % Asset Quality Ratios(2): Non-performing assets as a percent of total assets 0.24 % 1.15 % Allowance for loan losses as a percent of non-performing loans 422.81 % 86.08 % Allowance for loan losses as a percent of total loans receivable 1.20 % 1.27 % Per Share Data: Shares outstanding at period end 3,359,856 3,433,684 Weighted average shares outstanding: Basic 3,203,530 3,261,938 Diluted 3,514,082 3,389,702 Book value at period end $ 15.98 $ 14.87 (1) Ratios for the three month periods are annualized. (2) Asset quality ratios are end of period ratios.









CONTACT: James R. Barlow Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer (318) 222-1145




FILE PHOTO: The entrance of Monte dei Paschi bank headquarters is seen in downtown Siena

By Giuseppe Fonte

ROME (Reuters) -Italy plans to negotiate with the European Commission a "long extension" of the deadline to cut Rome's 64% stake in ailing bank Monte dei Paschi di Siena (MPS), a source close to the matter told Reuters.

The extension to be requested by the Treasury to Brussels will amount to "years," the source said, without elaborating.

The development comes after talks with Italy's No.2 bank UniCredit over a potential merger deal with the Tuscan lender collapsed on Sunday.

Rome believes the European Commission has no interest in putting Italy in a difficult negotiating position, the source added, who declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter.

Under the terms of a state bailout agreed with Brussels in 2017 at a cost of 5.4 billion euros ($6.28 billion), the Treasury was due to cut its 64% stake in MPS no later than the approval of its 2021 results, meaning mid-2022 at the latest.

After deeming UniCredit's 6.3 billion euro capital demand too high a price to pay to offload MPS, Italy's Treasury now needs to address the bank's capital requirements which MPS has put at 2.5 billion euros.

A cash injection is now likely to exceed that figure, two sources close to the matter told Reuters on Monday. One of the sources said it could total 3.5 billion - or 3.5 times the bank's current market value.

Italy has so far set aside 1.5 billion euros to recapitalise Monte Paschi. Developments on this could come in Rome's 2022 budget expected to be unveiled by Prime Minister Mario Draghi's government this week.

The capital increase would take place as a market transaction to avoid any 'burden sharing' with junior bondholders. These investors must bear losses under EU rules if cash calls are classed as state aid.

Private investors contributed 2.8 billion euros to MPS' 2017 rescue through a debt-to-equity swap.

Italy also plans to implement some of the measures it had offered to UniCredit as part of a new stand-alone plan for MPS.

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The bank's residual problem debts, worth around 4 billion euros, will go to state-owned bad loan manager AMCO, while state agency Fintenca is expected to take on up to 5 billion euros in legal claims stemming from MPS' pending lawsuits.

($1 = 0.8593 euros)

(Reporting by Giuseppe Fonte; Editing by Gavin Jones and Mike Harrison)
Conference Call Scheduled at 9am ET

AZOUR, Israel, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Ituran Location and Control Ltd. (NASDAQ: ITRN) announced that it will be releasing its third quarter 2021 results on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.

The Company will also be hosting a conference that day at 9am Eastern Time. On the call, management will review and discuss the results, and will be available to answer investor questions.

To participate, call one of the following teleconferencing numbers. Please begin placing your calls a few minutes before the conference call commences. If you are unable to connect using the toll-free numbers, please try the international dial-in number.

US Dial-in Number: 1 866 860 9642

ISRAEL Dial-in Number: 03 918 0609

INTERNATIONAL Dial-in Number: +972 3 918 0609

at:

9:00am Eastern Time, 6:00am Pacific Time, 4:00pm Israel Time

For those unable to listen to the live call, a replay of the call will be available from the day after the call in the investor relations section of Ituran's website.

About Ituran

Ituran is a leader in the emerging mobility technology field, providing value-added location-based services, including a full suite of services for the connected-car. Ituran offers Stolen Vehicle Recovery, fleet management as well as mobile asset location, management & control services for vehicles, cargo and personal security for the retail, insurance industry and car manufacturers. Ituran is the largest OEM telematics provider in Latin America. Its products and applications are used by customers in over 20 countries. Ituran is also the founder of the Tel-Aviv based DRIVE startup incubator to promote the development of smart mobility technology.

Ituran's subscriber base has been growing significantly since the Company's inception to approaching 2 million subscribers using its location-based services with a market leading position in Israel and Latin America. Established in 1995, Ituran has approximately 3,000 employees worldwide, with offices in Israel, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, Ecuador, Columbia, India, Canada and the United States.

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For more information, please visit Ituran's website, at: www.ituran.com

Company Contact Udi Mizrahi udi_m@ituran.com Deputy CEO and VP Finance, Ituran (Israel) +972 3 557 1348 International Investor Relations Ehud Helft ituran@gkir.com GK Investor & Public Relations (US) +1 212 378 8040

Cision

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ituran-location-and-control-ltd-schedules-third-quarter-2021-results-release-and-conference-call-for-tuesday-november-16-2021-301408456.html

SOURCE Ituran Location and Control Ltd.
Growth is everything. And as long as youre open to learning, youll continue to grow, clarifies Alabama native Lance Keeth when queried about his personal improvements as a photographer. He doesnt feel an emotional connection with the instant images digital photography produces. Making an effort to shoot film at every possible opportunity, he prefers the intuitive and personal feeling this format gives him.

Want to get your work featured? Heres how to do it!

I do love my film photography cameras. Lance would agree when I say that most photographers feel a more profound connection with analog cameras than with any of their digital counterparts. Its not just in the look and feel of the cameras themselves. Its also not just in the eager anticipation of the results of the development process. Its the way they make you think more carefully without second-guessing your inner talent. The way they make you value your time and in how they make you more aware of your surroundings. In this never-ending race called life, isnt it good to slow down occasionally and value what you have? Film gives photographers like Lance and I that same feeling.

The Essential Photo Gear Used by Lance Keeth

Lance told us:

Pentax 645N

Pentax 67

Leica M3

Pentax 105 2.4 lens

I use each of these independently or in conjunction with each other to fulfill a vision. Most of the time I end up using the Pentax 67 for portraits, night scenes, or landscapes. Even when paired solely with the infamous Pentax 105 2.4 lens, the Pentax 67 is an extremely versatile combination.

The Phoblographer: Please tell us about yourself and how you got into photography, more specifically film photography.

Lance Keeth: Ive always been interested in art, even at a very young age. Drawing was originally my creative avenue back then, and that eventually transpired into taking photos. When I was younger, film photography was our only source for how we captured day-to-day life. As a kid, I remember occasionally grabbing one of my moms 35mm point and shoot cameras at random and snapping away what remaining frames were left unexposed in the camera. Oftentimes, I would even seek out the affordable 35mm disposable cameras for a trip with family or friends, or even just at random to play around with, only to hang onto it for a few months before returning it to the store in exchange for a set of prints. I believe its that era that gives many of us a sense of nostalgia when we look at how film photography has evolved back into where we stand today. Even as digital trends grew rapidly, nothing has quite felt the same for me as film.



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I began my leap into photography, taking it seriously around 2007, buying my first DSLR and quickly drew closer to it. For years, I explored many of the technical aspects and instant gratifications you get with chimping, trial and error, and different subjects to shoot. But it wasnt until I came back to something as familiar and tangible as film that I really began to grasp a feeling associated with photography. In 2016, I bought a 35mm Canon AE-1 and shortly after, a Ciroflex. It was as if photography was all so familiar and unfamiliar at the same time. Everything felt new again.



I began shooting portraits around this time, which is something that I didnt attempt much of prior, it was outside of my comfort zone but wasnt going to hinder me any longer. I slowly began shooting more film and bringing my digital camera to shoots less and less, eventually leaving my DSLR at home altogether. Trusting in myself and the ability of my age-old cameras. I quickly wanted a deeper understanding about film and its process, so I started researching. Not long after, I ordered some supplies to begin developing my own B&W. I was hooked.

Since then, I delved into different processes and emulsions, allowing me to self-sustain my curiosities without the added expense or dependence of a lab. Doing so also allows me to deeply appreciate slowing down and the intent behind each frame, reverting back into the shooting process.



The Phoblographer: Why go back to shooting film stock when pretty much every one of these is available as a digital preset or in-camera filter now?

Lance Keeth: For me, its all about the process and final result. Im a very analytical thinker, so film is fun for me. I love being able to take an idea or a thought and turn that into fruition by what camera I want to use, what lens, which emulsion and format, etc.. it all plays a part in the final product. I find my creativity and enthusiasm amplified when it comes to shooting film vs digital. Film just compels me to be fully present and intent with where Im at or who Im shooting with.

The Phoblographer: 35mm or 120. Which one grabs your fancy more often?

Lance Keeth: 120 has been my go-to format since I first picked it up. The rendition from different film stocks, cameras, and lenses vary so much. It really keeps things interesting.

For portraits, documentary, and simple daily use, Ill likely carry a Leica M3 that I sourced at the beginning of this year. Having wanted one since my return to film, I finally found an excellent deal/ opportunity to make the dive and adopt this daily shooter. While it had a very fair amount of closet time in its life, this one-owner 1955 Leica M3 was still very functional, but needed revival to bring it back to the dependable beast theyre known to be.

The Phoblographer: According to your bio, your work is mainly lifestyle portraits but you also shoot adventure. Does the preparation for these kinds of images differ from each other much?

Lance Keeth: Depends on the situation honestly. I try to approach everything I photograph with an open mindset, but Im also very much a planner. So much that the two of these can collide at times. I typically have an idea where to begin based on the subject as to what camera I plan to use, what film to shoot, and how much to bring. Portrait sessions tend to be a bit more thought out, while other times, it can be purely inspirational based on where Im at. This approach resonates with more of my recent work since Covid began. Ill find myself drawn to places of interest or liminal space. For this, I usually prepare by grabbing a few various rolls of film, a tripod, and a full tank of gas. Sometimes it can be a short and fruitful venture, while other times, I might drive around for hours of the day or night and return without shooting a single frame.

The Phoblographer: I believe you once snagged a Canon EOS for just $3? How did you stumble upon this fantastic deal?

Lance Keeth: Yes! That camera was an excellent find. I came across it at a local thrift store in town, and to my surprise, it was fully functional. Its such a great camera since youre able to adapt very common Canon EF mount lenses to it and shoot in manual mode. It has a built-in meter thats also functional, but I still use an external light meter most of the time for accuracy. I have a few other cameras that take precedence, but this one definitely has its time and place.

The Phoblographer: Theres a cinematic vibe to your black and white portraits. Are there any films or filmmakers that influence your style?

Lance Keeth: I just love and have such an appreciation for lighting; it makes all of the difference for what youre trying to portray. I would definitely say theres some subconscious play in how I see a scene in comparison to films Ive watched. Pulp Fiction comes to mind particularly; the lighting setup was on point and has the potential to add so much drama to a scene.



The Phoblographer: Do you believe that a good portrait needs the subjects eyes to connect with the lens? If not, please show us some examples to debunk this idea.

Lance Keeth: I think most rules are subject to being broken; this one is no different. You can certainly incite a feeling in an image without having the subject staring into the camera. Not going to lie though, eyes can tell an entire story on their own.

After much research, I decided to send it off for a CLA along with a few Leica lenses included in my deal to the very reputable, Youxin Ye. While there are a few common names that get tossed around in the world of Leica repair, Youxin was my choice for this task and he did a phenomenal job. Although a seemingly painful wait, it was well worth it. Now, I finally own a Leica M3 that looks and functions as good as new and inspires me to use from everything daily life to 35mm portraits.

The Phoblographer: Whats more important for you  emotionally understanding the subject of your portraits and then adjusting your frame before clicking, or allowing them to express themselves freely while staying with the overall feel of the image you want?

Lance Keeth: I believe its a joint effort here, at least for me personally. My objective is to allow my subject to simply be themselves. And for that to happen, they need to feel completely comfortable. I dont want anything to feel forced. This is especially important when youre working with someone new, as youve yet to build that level of trust with each other.

All of these things translate through the camera to the viewer, so having that experience and vulnerability helps build the foundation for the images youre about to create.

The Phoblographer: Whats been the evolution of your film photography since you first picked up a camera in 2007? What rules have you broken to improve your style?

Lance Keeth: I feel as if things are way different now than when I started. Not that Ive had some sudden aha moment along the way, but that Ive slowly shifted to where Im at currently through trial and error and not being afraid to attempt something new. Growth is everything. And as long as youre open to learning, youll continue to grow. With film in particular, things really took a turn in my experience with photography.

Film has encouraged me to slow down a lot and really consider what Im shooting. The process itself is just more personal and intuitive, which is important to me and the work I make. I like doing things with purpose. Its also easier to make mistakes but quicker to learn from them.

The Phoblographer: If you could go back to 2007 and tell yourself something, what would it be?

Lance Keeth: I would tell myself to sell the DSLR I just bought, get a film body, and really begin learning. I know it sounds cheesy, but film itself has really changed the trajectory for me just because of how I resonate with it. I enjoy and appreciate things that are complex and take time and effort. Digital just doesnt do it for me, personally. Plus, I think many of us are tired of instant everything and living in a microwave society. I believe were missing the idea of simplicity when we center our lives around comfort.

All images by Lance Keeth. Used with permission. Visit his Instagram, Tumblr, Flickr and Reddit pages to check out more of his work.
CEO Darrell of Logitech is seen during an interview with Reuters in Zurich

ZURICH (Reuters) - Logitech International Chief Executive Bracken Darrell expects logistics problems and component shortages to continue at least into early next year, he told Reuters on Tuesday.

"This supply chain challenge will continue throughout the rest of this year," said Darrell, referring to the mouse and keyboard maker's financial year which runs to March 2022.

"We will have some issues delivering at the levels of demand that are out there. But we have strong levels of inventory," he said after Logitech posted its second quarter earnings..

The company was also adding new suppliers, as well as relying on its long term relationships with some manufacturers to deal with shortage of semi-conductor chips, he said.

(Reporting by John Revill; Editing by Kirsten Donovan)
SINGAPORE, October 26, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Recently, Mars Ecosystem won the September Monthly Star of MVBIII in September. Community-first is how the Mars Ecosystem team is approaching the future. This write-up will deep dive into stablecoins and what Mars Ecosystem means for the future of DeFi and crypto as a whole.

Stablecoins were first introduced as a blend of stability of fiat currency and mobility of cryptocurrencies. Generally, they are backed by underlying assets or algorithms. However, with time and usage, specific attributes of stablecoins have turned them into the antithesis of decentralization.

Mars ecosystem aims to combat this directly by reinventing stablecoins with decentralization and scalability intact. Currently, every stablecoin protocol has its share of tradeoffs concerning the three properties. However, all of the issues can be boiled down to the positive externality problem and the integration problem.

To resolve these, Mars Ecosystem stands apart as a decentralized stablecoin paradigm, incorporating an all-inclusive system designed to capture the actual utility of stablecoins, presenting a three-part system concentrated on producing a stablecoin ecosystem with high price stability, high decentralization, and scalability potential.

These efforts have been recognized by the Most Valuable Builder (MVB) program, an initiative formed by Binance smart chain to support innovative projects. The Mars Ecosystem was one of the winners of the MVBIII - September Monthly Stars.

With BSC supporting Mars products and technology, it adds an additional layer of credibility to the growth of the Mars Ecosystem. Alongside this, the Mars Ecosystem will receive critical support from BSC.

The foundation on which the Mars Ecosystem resides and grows is the Mars Treasury.

The treasury is built to support multiple types of cryptos, from the likes of BTC to DeFi blue chips. $ USDM stablecoin can be minted with $1 worth of any of the Mars Treasury white-listed assets. The maximum supply of $USDM is relative to the market cap of $XMS. This cap in supply is part of their mintage control mechanism, which ensures the $USDM is consistently stable.

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Mars DeFi Protocols are a series of functionalities being added to the Mars Ecosystem to facilitate transactions, improve liquidity, and enhance $USDMs utility as a medium of exchange and store of value. Mars Swap is first in the series of DeFi protocols, an automated market maker-powered DEX similar to Uniswap.

This DEX is designed to provide 24/7 liquidity for $USDM and other DeFi protocols that adopt $USDM as a token of exchange.

The transaction fees generated on Mars Swap are pushed back into the Mars Treasury, where liquidity providers and $XMS holders and stakers are rewarded.

Everyone holding $XMS tokens can participate in the MarsDAO and contribute to the evolution of the Mars Ecosystem. Also, Mars Ecosystem will be opening its NFT collection to the community to purchase alongside a few airdrops for lucky winners. The Boarding Pass NFT and the Captain NFT have been designed to reward those contributing to the initial MarsDAO community.

Mars Ecosystem believes that To Mars will be the new to the moon in the crypto and DeFi community. However, in place of the volatility, it will see the stablecoin $USDM grow into the DeFi worlds reserve currency!

Hitchhike with Mars Ecosystem, and secure the place on Mars.

Source link: https://www.newsbtc.com/news/company/reinventing-stablecoins/

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005862/en/

Contacts

Media

Company Name: MarsEcosystem

Contact: Dr.Marvin

Email: marketing@marsecosystem.com

Telegram: https://t.me/mars_ecosystem

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarsEcosystem

DAPP: https://app.marsecosystem.com/

Contact number: 34 688032481

Website: https://marsecosystem.com/home
File: Mastercard will tie up with digital asset platform Bakkt, allowing partners in the US to enable their customers to buy, sell and hold cryptocurrency (AFP via Getty Images)

Mastercard will soon allow merchants, banks, and fintech operators in the US to offer cryptocurrency services and products on its network.

The global payments giant will tie up with digital asset platform Bakkt, allowing partners in the US to enable their customers to buy, sell and hold cryptocurrency and streamline the issuance of branded crypto debit and credit cards, the company said on Monday.

This means that consumers can earn and spend rewards in cryptocurrency instead of traditional loyalty points and seamlessly convert their crypto holdings to pay for purchases, the companies noted in a joint statement.

Together with Bakkt and grounded by our principled approach to innovation, well not only empower our partners to offer a dynamic mix of digital assets options but also deliver differentiated and relevant consumer experiences, Sherri Haymond, executive vice president of digital partnerships at Mastercard, said in a statement.

The partnership between Bakkt and Mastercard reflects a growing trend among consumers to seek out crypto assets as an option for daily purchases.

A consumer survey of 2,000 US consumers by Bakkt found nearly half of the respondents reported purchasing crypto in the first half of 2021, while 32 per cent of those who didnt said they were either very or somewhat interested in doing so by year end.

Today, @Mastercard announced a partnership with Bakkt to make it easier for #merchants, #fintechs and #banks in the U.S. to embrace and open access to a broad set of cryptocurrency solutions and services. Learn more: https://t.co/BAI6pS834Z #cryptocurrency #loyalty #rewards  Bakkt (@Bakkt) October 25, 2021

Another survey by Mastercard, called the Mastercard New Payments Index, also pointed out that 77 per cent of millennial respondents were interested in learning more about cryptocurrency, while about three-fourths said they would use cryptocurrency if they understood it better.

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Interviews of 15,000 consumers in 18 countries, including Australia, India, Thailand, US and Canada, were conducted.

As brands and merchants look to appeal to younger consumers and their transaction preferences, these new offerings represent a unique opportunity to satisfy increasing demand for crypto, payment and rewards flexibility, Nancy Gordon, executive vice president of loyalty rewards and payments at Bakkt, said in a statement.

Both the companies, however, have not revealed which cryptocurrencies would be allowed for use on the Mastercard network.

Read More

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Could China be about to unban bitcoin?

Nasa finds first ever planet outside our galaxy
TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /CNW/ - Media are invited to attend a virtual news conference today, where the Ontario Medical Association will release new information about the pandemic backlog of care and a sweeping new report recommending solutions to the province's most pressing health-care challenges.

Ontario Medical Association Logo (CNW Group/Ontario Medical Association)

Prescription for Ontario: Doctors' Five-Point Plan for Better Health Care is the result of the broadest consultation in the OMA's 140-year history. Thousands of Ontarians from around the province shared their advice on what health-care issues were most important to them. We combined that with the advice of doctors and more than 110 health-care organizations, social service agencies and community leaders.

With a provincial election less than a year away, the OMA is urging all political parties to adopt its recommendations as part of their platforms.

When: 11 a.m.-noon TODAY. Interviews can be arranged separately.

Where: Zoom webinar. Register here.

Who: OMA CEO Allan O'Dette and President Dr. Adam Kassam

PLEASE NOTE: You must register in advance for the Zoom news conference. You can register at any time, including while the event is taking place, but you need to register to gain access.

SOURCE Ontario Medical Association

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View original content to download multimedia: http://www.newswire.ca/en/releases/archive/October2021/26/c0264.html
Reporters can register to attend a news conference on Tuesday, Oct. 26, from 11 a.m.-noon.

TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /CNW/ - A new analysis by the Ontario Medical Association found the COVID-19 pandemic created a staggering backlog of almost 20 million health-care services, including doctors' visits, diagnostic tests, treatments and surgeries.

Ontario Medical Association (CNW Group/Ontario Medical Association)

This backlog is based on OHIP data from the start of the pandemic in March 2020 to September 2021. It will take years to clear, even if doctors and other health-care professionals worked even more days and longer hours and there were more ORs, hospital beds and other resources to support them.

It's in addition to pre-pandemic wait times that were well above recommended timelines for many procedures. And it doesn't address the other cracks in the health-care system that widened during the pandemic. It doesn't include the looming mental health tsunami or the patients who were not diagnosed or treated during the pandemic and now are showing up sicker and requiring more aggressive treatment.

The OMA offers solutions for all these issues in a sweeping new report that aims to reverse the decline in Ontario's health-care system over the next four years and make the province a national and global leader.

Prescription for Ontario: Doctors' Five-Point Plan for Better Health Care is the result of the broadest consultation in the OMA's 140-year history. More than 110 health-care organizations, social service agencies and community leaders provided input. Almost 8,000 Ontarians from 600 communities across the province shared their views through an online survey. Doctors representing a wide range of specialties and regions gave their expert advice.

"The urgent need to focus on solutions to improve patient care is a top priority for the profession," said OMA President Dr. Adam Kassam. "Physicians have a prescription for the future of health care and a roadmap to transformation for Ontario."

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Fixing Ontario's health-care system will not be quick or easy, said OMA CEO Allan O'Dette, and neither doctors nor the provincial government can do it alone.

"It requires collaboration among health providers, support from the public, and political will, including significant investment from the federal government, including increased spending through the Canada Health Transfer to the provinces to cover 35 per cent of all health-care costs, up from the current 22 per cent," O'Dette said.





The new analysis of 20 million backlogged health-care services is the first time the OMA has reported on the full impact of the pandemic from its official start in March 2020 until September.

The backlog and estimated time to catch up on five of the most common medical procedures  assuming doctors worked 120 per cent more hours than they did before the pandemic is as follows:

30 months for knee replacements (52,492 people waiting)

25 months for cataract surgeries (108,736)

19 months for hip replacements (22,308)

14 months for heart bypass surgery (4,296)

11 months for MRIs (502,476)

Compounding the backlog is the fact that Ontario spends less on health care per capita than any other province in Canada except British Columbia, according to data from the Canadian Institute for Health Information. This is a situation that has been 30 years in the making, due to a decrease in per capita spending in the 1990s, flat spending between 2012 and 2016 and spending below the minimum required to keep pace with demand in other years. Ontario's per capita health-care spending is about 8 per cent lower than the average of other provinces, according to CIHI.

The province also needs more doctors, personal support workers and other health-care professionals at a time when many are retiring or leaving the profession because of burnout exacerbated by working on the front lines of the pandemic.

Ontario ranks seventh among Canadian provinces in number of family doctors per 100,000 patients (2.3) and, if it were a country, would have one of the lowest doctor-to-population rankings among OECD countries (29 out of 33). The shortage is especially acute in northern and rural areas.

The OMA, which represents Ontario's 43,000 physicians, has developed recommendations in five key areas to fix the gap in the health-care system:

Reduce the backlog of services and reduce wait times

Expand mental health and addiction programs in the community

Improve and expand home care and other community care

Strengthen public health and pandemic preparedness

Give every patient a team of health-care providers, and link them digitally

The OMA plan also addresses the unique health-care challenges in northern Ontario. Ontario's doctors are also calling for immediate action on climate change to mitigate its severe consequences on human health and well-being.

Note: A full media kit with an infographic and audiovisual clips is available.

About the OMA

The Ontario Medical Association represents Ontario's 43,000 plus physicians, medical students and retired physicians, advocating for and supporting doctors while strengthening the leadership role of doctors in caring for patients. Our vision is to be the trusted voice in transforming Ontario's health-care system.

SOURCE Ontario Medical Association

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Rob Honeycutt

Rob Honeycutt

Rob Honeycutt

ANDREWS, S.C., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SixAxis LLC (the "Company") announced today that Rob Honeycutt, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, plans to step down from his current role as CEO at the end of 2021. The Board of Directors has appointed Jeff Reichert to succeed Honeycutt as Chief Executive Officer on Jan. 1, 2022. Honeycutt will remain a key member of the Board of Directors, providing unparalleled insight and guidance to the company

"On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Executive Management Team, and the SixAxis ~500 employees, we want to thank Rob for his leadership, vision and impact on the organization in creating a world-class operation, from inception to what it is today," said Ken Walker, Chairperson. "The Board is sincerely grateful to Rob for his dedication to SixAxis as CEO and are looking forward to his continuing input and oversight at Board level."

Jeff's selection is the culmination of a robust, multi-year leadership development and succession planning process that has helped create a great management team with depth in all functions that will ensure a seamless transition.

"The combination of the talented SixAxis leadership team, the customer-driven durable end-market commercial portfolio that has been created, as well as a strong balance sheet, has positioned SixAxis for continued success through this transition and beyond," added Walker.

"It has been an honor to be the Co-Founder & CEO of SixAxis LLC since its inception. I want to offer my sincere thanks to Fred Harmon, my partner and friend - and to our employees whose hard work and dedication have allowed us to achieve so much over the last 20 years. I also want to thank our customers, shareholders, and the Board of Directors for their ongoing support. I have worked with Jeff for many years and know first-hand that he will be an excellent leader for SixAxis. I look forward to working closely with Jeff and the Board to execute the exciting plans that we have in place."

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SafeRack President Jeff Reichert will take over the reins as SixAxis CEO. "I want to thank Rob for his visionary leadership and guidance at SixAxis, as well as the Board for its confidence in me, as I step into this role," said Reichert. "I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to work with our talented leadership team and employees around the world to advance the SixAxis growth strategy."

Honeycutt's humble beginnings began with a childhood filled with adversity and relocating dozens of times around the southeast. He did not complete college, and instead became a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman in rural South Carolina, before finally finding his spiritual home in industrial sales with an equipment company located in Florence, SC. He quickly rose to become one of the company's top salesmen while still in his early 20s.

It was during this time that Honeycutt met his future business partner, Fred Harmon. Between them, they founded SafeRack LLC, launched their first brand of products in 2002/2003, and started growing a company while facing almost impossible odds. The passionate vision involved investing nearly everything they had into a catalog of products, all the while embracing customers with unparalleled care, and solving complicated safety and productivity problems.

Rob and Fred assembled a small group of believers, and they overcame startup and unpredictable growing pains. SafeRack opened its dedicated manufacturing facility in Andrews, South Carolina, in 2005. With limited cash flow, they began operations on mostly dirt floors and began to carve out a reputation for providing innovative safety solutions for the truck and railcar loading industry - with unmatched customer service.

Their customer-centric philosophy and persistence prevailed. They began to dominate the marketplace and build the SafeRack brand into the world's premier provider for loading terminal safety equipment. During this time, Honeycutt succeeded at bringing to life a world-class manufacturing facility to support the continued growth of the company. As an out-of-the-box thinker with no preconceptions, he was able to secure dozens of patents that would enjoy double-digit annual growth still to this day.

Over the past two decades, Honeycutt and Harmon oversaw the development of many successful additional brands and products within the industrial safety space. Many are used in facilities around the world today, such as ErectaStep (the patented modular access platform and stairs system) and YellowGate (the patented industrial safety gate line of products).

During this journey, Rob and Fred also founded a unique software company, creating sales and CRM tools to enable customers to visualize their proposed solution ahead of receiving the quote for the product. This dramatically helped improve the collaborative and consultative sales process, about which Harmon and Honeycutt are both so passionate. While neither are involved in the software business today, the company still operates in Charleston, South Carolina, and the solutions developed for (and with) SixAxis are still being used to support continued growth in many industries.

The company's main offices remain in their Andrews (SC) manufacturing plant. Other teams such as Engineering and Customer Service work out of a Sumter office, while an office in England supports international sales. More than 60 Sales professionals are located across the U.S. for North American customers.

In June of 2021, SixAxis acquired Upside Innovations (located in West Chester, Ohio), and further expanded the SixAxis product family to include ADA compliant ramps and stairs. While the markets served marginally overlap those already enjoyed by SixAxis, the complementary products present further growth opportunities and strong penetration points into the modular building industry.

The dirt floor days are gone, and SixAxis employs nearly 500 employees. The company has expanded to over 300,000 square feet of high-tech manufacturing space and enjoys a multi-national sales footprint in over 50 countries. Over 11,000 customers have worked with SixAxis, and over the last 20 years. More than $1 billion (dollars) worth of equipment has been supplied around the world, improving safety and productivity for our workforce. And the company is less than 20 years old...

Rob Honeycutt resides in Pawleys Island, SC, along with his wife Julie, and their daughters Elizabeth and Mary.

About Reichert:

Jeff Reichert is a member of the SixAxis executive leadership team and currently serves as the president of SafeRack and SixAxis. He manages the day-to-day operations of the company, in addition to overseeing business strategy for the company.

Prior to SafeRack, Reichert served as the vice president of a chemical and industrial business unit of a large loading arm manufacturing company and spent the previous 15 years at a major aircraft engine manufacturer and a Japanese machine tool company.

Reichert attended Bowling Green State University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Operations and Materials Management and a Masters of Business Administration in Operations Management.

Pawleys, SC, is home for Reichert and his wife Cindy. They have four children: Aaron, Andrew, Adam and Annie.

About FCP:

Falfurrias Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm focused on acquiring or investing in a diverse portfolio of growth-oriented middle-market companies.

As a team of operators, we leverage our significant, real-world experience to bring measurable contributions and create lasting value for both our portfolio companies and limited partners.

By partnering with the most respected experts in their fields, we immerse ourselves in the industries which we invest in, identify the strongest growth opportunities, and rigorously test and learn using our expertise, data and tireless investigation.

For more information, visit www.falfurriascapital.com

Related Images













Image 1: Rob Honeycutt





Rob Honeycutt, Co-founder & CEO of SixAxis Manufacturing



















Image 2: Jeff Reichert





Jeff Reichert, CEO of SixAxis Manufacturing



















Image 3: SixAxis Manufacturing





SixAxis Manufacturing Facility in Andrews, South Carolina









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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 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.

Eargo, Inc. (NASDAQ:EAR)

If you suffered a loss, contact us at:https://www.wongesq.com/pslra-1/eargo-inc-loss-submission-form?prid=20681&wire=1

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: December 6, 2021

Class Period: October 16, 2020 - September 22, 2021

Allegations against EAR include that: (1) Eargo had improperly sought reimbursements from certain third-party payors; (2) the foregoing was reasonably likely to lead to regulatory scrutiny; (3) as a result and because the reimbursements at issue involved the Company's largest third-party payor, Eargo's financial results would be adversely impacted; and (4) 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.

Nano-X Imaging Ltd. (NASDAQ:NNOX)

If you suffered a loss, contact us at:https://www.wongesq.com/pslra-1/nano-x-imaging-ltd-loss-submission-form-2?prid=20681&wire=1

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: December 6, 2021

Class Period: June 17, 2021 - August 18, 2021

Allegations against NNOX include that: (i) Nano-X's 510(k) application for the Nanox.ARC was deficient; (ii) accordingly, it was unlikely that the Food and Drug Administration would approve the 510(k) application for the Nanox.ARC in its current form; (iii) as a result, NanoX had overstated the Nanox.ARC's regulatory and commercial prospects; and (iv) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

InnovAge Holding Inc. (NASDAQ:INNV)

If you suffered a loss, contact us at:https://www.wongesq.com/pslra-1/innovage-holding-inc-loss-submission-form?prid=20681&wire=1

Lead Plaintiff Deadline: December 13, 2021

This lawsuit is on behalf of persons and entities that purchased or otherwise acquired InnovAge common stock pursuant and/or traceable to the registration statement and prospectus issued in connection with the Company's March 2021 initial public offering.

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Allegations against INNV include that: (1) certain of InnovAge's facilities failed to provide covered services, provide accessible and adequate services, manage participants' medical situations, and oversee use of specialists; (2) as a result, the Company was reasonably likely to be subject to regulatory scrutiny, including by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; (3) as a result, there as a significant risk that CMS would suspend new enrollments pending an audit of the Company's services; and (4) 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





View source version on accesswire.com:

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NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of HyreCar, Inc. ("HyreCar" or the "Company") (NASDAQ: HYRE). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

Fighting for victims of securities fraud for more than 85 years (PRNewsfoto/Pomerantz LLP)

The investigation concerns whether HyreCar and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On August 10, 2021, after the market had closed, HyreCar issued a press release announcing deeply disappointing results for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2021 ("Q2 2021"), including net losses of $9.3 million compared to losses of $3.8 million in the same period the prior year. Furthermore, the Company's adjusted EBITDA loss for Q2 2021 was $7.1 million (four times higher than the $1.7 million adjusted EBITDA loss experienced in the second quarter of 2020) and its gross profit for Q2 2021 was just $0.8 million (less than one third the Company's gross profit in the second quarter of 2020), with a gross profit margin of just 24%. Contemporaneously with the release, HyreCar filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission a Form 10-Q which disclosed that the Company had incurred skyrocketing costs of revenue during the quarter primarily as a result of significantly higher insurance claims incidenceincluding claims before March 31, 2021 "in excess of the reserves." On an earnings call, when asked whether HyreCar was actually on track to achieve 45% to 50% gross margins in the near term as previously represented, the Company's Chief Financial Officer essentially withdrew this goal, calling it a "shoot for the sky" aim and stating that "shooting for margin upwards of 40%" was more realistic.

On this news, HyreCar's stock price fell $9.27 per share, or 48.5%, to close at $9.85 per share on August 11, 2021.

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Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

rswilloughby@pomlaw.com

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

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SOURCE Pomerantz LLP
NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Snap, Inc. (Snap or the Company) (NYSE: SNAP). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at newaction@pomlaw.com or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.



The investigation concerns whether Snap and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On October 21, 2021, Snap reported its third-quarter 2021 earnings, which missed revenue expectations. Snap cited Apples iPhone privacy changes as the source of disruptions to the Companys advertising business and warned that global supply chain interruptions and labor shortages had reduced the short-term appetite to generate additional customer demand through advertising.

On this news, Snaps stock price fell $19.97 per share, or nearly 27%, to close at $55.14 per share on October 22, 2021.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com .

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

rswilloughby@pomlaw.com

888-476-6529 ext. 7980




TORONTO, Oct. 25, 2021 /CNW/ - University of Toronto Asset Management Corporation ("UTAM") joins more than 35 other institutional investors, managing a total of more than $5.5 trillion in assets, in signing a new Canadian Investor Statement on Climate Change, released today.

University of Toronto Asset Management Corporation Logo (CNW Group/University of Toronto Asset Management Corporation (UTAM))

Coordinated by the Responsible Investment Association (RIA), the Statement is the first of its kind in Canada, bringing together institutional investors to call for increased climate accountability in the corporate sector. It urges companies to act on material climate risks, including through their lobbying activities and industry associations. Signatories include four of Canada's largest banks, several large investment firms and other major institutional investors. UTAM represents the University of Toronto, one of only two university signatories.

The Statement outlines the actions major Canadian investors and financial institutions will take to advance the global pursuit of net zero, such as disclosing financed emissions and setting an expectation that investee companies will establish emissions reduction targets and report on their progress.

The Statement's release comes in advance of COP26, the UN Climate Change Conference, which takes place from October 31 to November 12 in Glasgow, Scotland.

"We're pleased to collaborate with like-minded investors in calling for companies to take action on climate change and make meaningful progress towards net zero," says Chuck O'Reilly, UTAM's President and Chief Investment Officer. "The Statement is a clear message to investees that they need to assess and manage their climate-related risks."

RIA worked closely with the Reconciliation and Responsible Investment Initiative in the development of the Statement to ensure Indigenous perspectives were incorporated into the Statement. "By centering reconciliation and a just transition, this statement adds a Canadian perspective that is missing from the global conversation," says Dustyn Lanz, CEO of RIA. "The signatories recognize that Canada's path to net zero depends on a transition that leaves no one behind and supports the transformation of every sector, while aligning itself with Indigenous rights for self-determination."

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The RIA is Canada's industry association for responsible investment. It brings together asset managers, asset owners, advisors and service providers who support its mandate of promoting responsible investment in Canada's retail and institutional markets. UTAM has been a member of the RIA since 2016. Lisa Becker, our Chief Operating Officer, serves on the RIA's board as Treasurer and the Chair of the Finance and Audit Committee.

Signing the Statement is consistent with and reinforces UTAM's commitment to other collaborative investor initiatives, including the 2021 Global Investor Statement to Governments on the Climate Crisis and the University Network for Investor Engagement (UNIE), as well as our promotion of sustainability-focused investment strategies such as the Impax Global Opportunities Strategy.

About UTAM

UTAM is the investment manager of the University of Toronto's Pension, Endowment and short-term working capital assets. UTAM's Board of Directors delegates day-to-day investment management activities to UTAM. Our team of almost 30 professionals works closely with the Board, the expert Investment Committee, the university administration and various governance bodies in our management of the university's assets.

Related Links

Canadian Investor Statement on Climate Change

SOURCE University of Toronto Asset Management Corporation (UTAM)

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- The 25 Mile Creek wind project in Ellis County will be Enel Green Power's 12th wind farm in Oklahoma, where the company's portfolio now represents over $3 billion in investment

- Enel Green Power now has over 2.5 GW of new wind and solar capacity under construction in the United States

GAGE, Okla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Enel Green Power North America has started construction of the 250 MW 25 Mile Creek wind project in Ellis County, Okla., the company's 12th wind farm in the state. With this new construction, Enel Green Power's Oklahoma wind portfolio now exceeds $3 billion in investment. The company now has over 2.5 GW of new wind and solar capacity under construction across the United States, including the 140 MW Rockhaven wind farm in Oklahoma.

Pictured is Enel Green Power's Chisholm View wind farm, one of the company's now 12 wind farms in the state of Oklahoma.

Oklahoma's leaders know that a responsible, sustainable energy policy strengthens rural communities.

"As we continue celebrating 10 years after Enel Green Power first broke ground in Oklahoma, we're excited to reach a major milestone of investment in the Sooner State," said Georgios Papadimitriou, Head of Enel Green Power in the US and Canada. "Oklahoma's leaders know that a responsible, sustainable energy policy strengthens rural communities and attracts top-tier businesses  that's why the state is one of America's leaders for renewables. We look forward to deepening our relationships in Oklahoma, a state that is home to many of our employees and their families."

Enel Green Power started construction on its first Oklahoma wind farm, Rocky Ridge, in 2011. Since then, the company has built or started construction on 12 wind farms representing over 1.7 GW of operating capacity, establishing it as Oklahoma's second-largest wind operator. Enel's impact in Oklahoma includes the creation of over 130 long-term jobs and over $2 million in support for community initiatives.

25 Mile Creek's 60 turbines are expected to generate over 1.1 TWh of energy each year, equivalent to the electricity needs of over 100,000 US households and the avoidance of over 676,000 tons of CO 2 emissions each year. The project is expected to generate over $34 million in new local tax revenue for schools and public services, along with over $56 million in payments to landowners, over its lifetime. Construction will involve around 350 construction jobs, and the site will employ around 10 permanent positions. Operations are expected to begin by the end of 2022.

Story continues

Enel Green Power invests in the long-term sustainability of its host communities, identifying opportunities to support local partners in creating shared value. As part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company provided $160,000 in relief funds to support food security, education, health services and first responders in Oklahoma.

Enel Green Power North America is a leading developer, long-term owner and operator of renewable energy plants in North America, with a presence in 14 US states and one Canadian province. The company operates 60 plants with a managed capacity of over 6.7 GW powered by renewable wind, geothermal and solar energy.

https://www.enelgreenpower.com/countries/north-america/united-states

Media Relations

NorthAmericaMedia@enel.com

enelgreenpower.com

(PRNewsfoto/Enel Green Power North America)

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SOURCE Enel Green Power North America
Following are the main services being provided by FNCCI:

 Representing the entire business community of the country in national and international forums

 Preparing recommendations for promoting exports and investment

 Promoting joint ventures

 Providing expertise service to exporters, importers and investors

 Facilitating participation in national and international trade fairs and exhibitions

 Promoting better industrial relations

 Providing business information and research services

 Strengthening local chambers and associations

 Promoting entrepreneurship

 Conducting, on a regular basis, trainings, workshops, seminars on chamber management, publication, information exchange, documentation, industrial relation, productivity, entrepreneurship, quality management, environment etc.

 Providing "One Stop" service to its members
King George will use the recently announced grant for a drinking water project to look at our own resources because it makes sense to do that, Miller said.

The money is part of American Rescue Plan Act funding from the federal government to provide relief from COVID-19 hardships to state governments. The Virginia General Assembly allocated $50 million to the state health departments Office of Drinking Water for projects to help small and disadvantaged communities, said James Reynolds, director of the Richmond Office of Drinking Water.

The office started making a list of localities that might benefit from the water grants in June and King George immediately came to mind, Reynolds said. His co-worker, District Engineer Doug Meyer, has been working with the Service Authority and knew all about its recent history, both good and bad.

Past mismanagement resulted in heavy fines from the state and left many of the Service Authoritys plants, pipes and structures in disrepair. However, as county officials realized the extent of the problem, new managementand a new focusbrought the Service Authority into compliance, but it still faced another concern that was fast approaching, Reynolds said.

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On its fourth day of operation, a new vaccination clinic in Fredericksburgs Central Park had to boost up the number of COVID-19 boosters it was giving out.

Chuck Boyer was among those who wanted a shot to boost his waning immunity, but he didnt look forward to repeating the frustrating experience from earlier this year, when trying to snag an appointment was akin to winning the lottery.

When he learned last week that the Moderna booster had been approved, the King George County man looked up the registration link for a new community vaccination clinic in Fredericksburgs Central Park. That was about 9:30 a.m. Friday, and he was getting ready to head into the city for another appointment.

Boyer, 75, managed to combine appointments. He got his hearing aids checked, a COVID-19 booster in the arm and was back home in time for a late lunch.

If someone was watching the front door of the clinic, they might have concluded it was the entrance to a senior citizen center [and] that all the inhabitants were very happy being there, he said in an email. Furthermore, I was one of the very happy seniors.
Del. Cole is an environmental champion

Thanks to the support of Delegate Joshua Cole and the majority in the General Assembly, Virginia successfully passed keystone environmental bills in the past two years that will result in cleaner air and water, reductions in greenhouse gases and address environmental injustices. Bills that passed with Del. Coles support include:

The Virginia Clean Economy Act established the first mandatory energy efficiency standards and renewable portfolio goals, plus sets targets for battery storage, solar and wind energy.

Joining the Regional Green House Gas Initiative, which provides a market-based cap and trade program to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Profits generated from RGGI will go to Virginia Community Flood Preparedness Fund and energy efficiency programs for low-income households.

Prohibition on hydraulic fracturing in the Eastern Virginia Groundwater Management Area (Taylorsville Basin).

Established the Virginia Council on Environmental Justice.

Clean Cars bill, which would implement a low-emissions and zero-emissions vehicle program for motor vehicles with a model year of 2025 and later.
Unidentified gunmen have kidnapped four government employees, including a woman, in northwestern Pakistan, police and local officials said on October 26.

The four were kidnapped while inspecting a dam project on October 25, local police officer Sher Akbar told RFE/RL.

The four people were on a monitoring team from the Forest Department that was visiting the Mohmand Khel Baran Dam site in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Akbar said, adding that a search operation was under way in the area.

A senior officer of the Forest Department, who wished not to be named because he is not authorized to speak to media, told Radio Mashaal that the kidnapped employees included a female officer named Shaista.

The area where the kidnapping occurred borders Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's North Waziristan tribal district, where armed men abducted six people in February, including two government health officials. The group was released earlier this month after eight months in captivity.
The leaders of Pakistan and China on October 26 launched a joint appeal to the international community calling for urgent humanitarian and economic aid to Afghanistan, where people are facing food and medicine shortages in the coming winter.

A statement said Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the situation in Afghanistan in a telephone conversation, saying afterward that people there are in need of international help to alleviate their suffering, prevent instability," and rebuild following the withdrawal of the U.S.-led forces and the Taliban's takeover in August.

The joint appeal came as Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has been holding two days of talks with Taliban representatives in Qatar to discuss a range of issues.

China has urged the Taliban to keep border crossings open, while offering $31 million in humanitarian assistance along with 3 million doses of Chinese-made COVID-19 vaccines.

Beijing long opposed operations by U.S. and NATO forces in Afghanistan. Since the Taliban seized power in August, it has kept its embassy open in Kabul but has not recognized the Taliban-led government.

Chinese officials have called for an inclusive government in Afghanistan but said virtually nothing about the Talibans restrictions on womens access to work and education and other human rights issues.

Pakistan wants the world community to unfreeze Afghanistans assets to enable Kabul use its own money to avert the deepening crisis.

Currently, the Taliban rulers do not have access to the Afghan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve.

Based on reporting by Reuters and AFP
The Taliban has been criticized for including some notoriously shady characters in Afghanistan's acting government, perhaps none more than Sirajuddin Haqqani, a designated terrorist last photographed hiding behind a plant.

In his first public appearance since he was named the Taliban's interior minister in early September, Haqqani on October 19 praised suicide bombers and promised money and land to a packed house of their surviving family members.

In an official photo of the event at Kabul's Intercontinental Hotel, the target of deadly Taliban attacks in 2011 and 2018, Haqqani can barely be seen sitting behind a strategically placed floral arrangement onstage.

Despite the obvious effort to shroud Haqqani's appearance, closer inspection reveals the most distinct image of Haqqani's face seen in recent years.

Another camera angle shows the events' decorations, VIPs, and Taliban special-forces troops brandishing recently pilfered U.S. military gear much more clearly. That is, except for Haqqani, whose body is shown but whose face has been completely photoshopped out of the scene.

Other photos show every wrinkle and fold on Haqqani's beige shirt, brown vest, and black turban. But aside from his hands, a glimpse of an ear, and traces of his trademark dark beard, Haqqani's face is again either blurred or artfully hidden behind warm embraces with attendees of the event.

The photos mark the second attempt by the Taliban to keep Haqqani's face out of the camera's view since the extremist group seized power on August 15.

During an introductory meeting of the Interior Ministry on September 10, only the back of Haqqani's head can be seen as he addressed his new staff wearing a similar outfit.

The obscured images have blurred the Taliban's attempts to cast itself as a more moderate and transparent version than when it was last in power from 1996 until the U.S.-led invasion of Afghanistan in 2001.

Since regaining power amid the withdrawal of U.S.-led forces, the Taliban has waged a public-relations offensive to convince the international community to recognize the group as the legitimate ruler of Afghanistan.

But the involvement of Haqqani -- who heads the Haqqani network -- has raised serious questions as to the Taliban's commitment to its claims of reform.

The acting interior minister, who is the son of the deceased Haqqani network founder Jalaluddin Haqqani -- is among the FBI's most-wanted fugitives.

The Haqqani network was designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. State Department in 2012. The network, the most powerful faction of the Taliban, was blamed for some of the deadliest attacks on foreign troops and Afghan civilians.

Haqqani is sought for questioning in connection with a suicide attack on Kabul's Serena Hotel -- frequented by foreign diplomats, politicians, and journalists in the past -- that killed six people and injured six others in January 2008.

He is also wanted for his alleged involvement in a failed assassination attempt in April 2008 on then Afghan President Hamid Karzai. Three people -- including a tribal chief, an Afghan lawmaker, and a 10-year-old girl -- were killed in the well-coordinated attack on a national-day military parade attended by foreign diplomats.

The attack on the event, held to commemorate the victory of the mujahedin over the Soviet occupation in the 1980s -- was seen as a national embarrassment at a time when the Afghan government was pushing to take responsibility for Kabul's security from foreign troops.

As a result of Haqqani's involvement in those attacks, as well as cross-border attacks emanating from Pakistan on U.S. and coalition forces in Afghanistan, the United States placed a $10 million bounty on Haqqani's head that remains in effect.

The FBI continues to distribute an old, grainy image of Haqqani, whose age is unknown.

Some on Twitter have speculated that Haqqani's current appearance is being obscured to protect him from those who might want to cash in on the reward money.

Multiple sources in Kabul have told RFE/RL that Haqqani frequently changes location and keeps his movements secret out of fear that Washington will target him using remotely piloted drones.

Others on Twitter have suggested that the Taliban is attempting to portray Haqqani as a divine leader or that the images are being blurred in keeping with the group's previous stance that photography was forbidden under its strict interpretation of Islamic law.

Torek Farhadi, a former Afghan government consultant and prominent analyst on the situation in Afghanistan, listed several reasons in comments to RFE/RL.

"The religious reason is that in their previous regime they were opposed to photography," he said, noting that the decision was inspired by Taliban founder Mullah Mohammad Omar. "Another issue is that some of them do not want to be targeted, given the increased threats by Islamic State affiliates in Afghanistan at the moment."

Finally, Farhadi said, "Haqqani's problem with the United States has not been resolved and he still has a bounty of several million dollars on his head."

Asra Nomani, cofounder of the Pearl Project that investigated the beheading of U.S. journalist Daniel Pearl in Pakistan in 2002, was blunt as to why Haqqani's image is being blurred.

"Sirajuddin Haqqani is a coward," she said in written comments to RFE/RL.

Haqqani is not the only Taliban official working in the shadows. The militant group's newly named supreme leader, Mullah Haibatullah Akhundzada, has only been seen on posters even as government appointments are attributed to him amid reports that he died a year ago.

And the whereabouts of Mullah Yaqoob Omar, the 30-something son of Mullah Omar who has been named the militant group's caretaker defense minister, is essentially a mystery.

Haqqani's purported appearance in Taliban-issued photographs during a public event honoring "martyrs" makes him appear approachable by comparison.

But his depiction of suicide bombers as "heroes of Islam and the country" during the October 19 event at the Intercontinental Hotel -- where 42 people were killed by Taliban gunmen in 2018 -- fell on deaf ears to those outside the venue.

Reactions to Haqqani's appearance -- however blurred -- were harsh among Afghans who have been victimized by suicide attacks.

"Thousands of young people and families were killed, Ibrahim, whose brother Khajeh Isa was killed in a suicide attack in the northwestern Herat Province in 2009, told RFE/RL. Children, the young, and the old were martyred.

"We see that today those who committed suicide [bombings] are being honored in the name of martyrdom," said Ibrahim, whose full name has been withheld out of concerns of possible retribution against him. "Unfortunately, this is far from humanity and religion... No conscience accepts that suicide is a part of Islamic law."

Written by Michael Scollon with additional reporting by Mustafa Sarwar of RFE/RL's Radio Azadi. The names of contributing Radio Azadi correspondents in Afghanistan are being withheld for their safety.
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Most people think of yoga as a serene, soft way to commune with your soul and get more flexible.

Theres no screaming, no cursing, no aggressive rock music and certainly no middle fingers.

Clearly, they havent met rage yoga yet.

Canadian Lindsay Istace is the founder behind one of the latest twists on the ancient practice. It came to her around 2015, when a bad breakup sent her spiraling. At first, she went to traditional yoga classes, where many a broken-hearted person has turned to wring, arc and bend the fraught feelings out of their bones. But the calm, staid environment wasnt really cutting it for her.

Thats when she retreated to her basement, where she could really feel into and express all her emotions  anger, rage, sadness, frustration  in such a way that wasnt appropriate for a typical class setting.

More often than not, we can end up with a narrow view of what yoga is supposed to be, said Istace from her home in Edmonton, Alberta.

Some of us need to take a different route to quiet and calm. Youve got to let some stuff go. Take an alternative route to get there. For me, that was a problem in a lot of classes  walking in and being quiet right away. I had some stuff to work through right away.

She told a friend about her new spin on her yoga practice, and they said it sounded like a class theyd like to take. So Istace did a rage yoga workshop at a festival. It was a hit. She taught another one, and soon enough she was leading weekly classes.

Nowadays she leads rage yoga teacher trainings, both in-person and online, and her instructors teach across Canada and the U.S. There are no classes in Colorado, but you can sign up for her six-week online programs at rageyoga.com.

Istace also has a new book, Rage Yoga, set to debut Nov. 2. A book tour will bring her to Denver Jan. 15, where shell do a book signing and daylong rage yoga retreat at Woods Boss Brewing Co. Shell also be in Boulder Jan. 16 and Fort Collins Jan. 17.

Maybe surprisingly, her classes dont look a whole lot different from a traditional class. Yogis often begin in a seated position, where they practice breathwork, before moving into standing postures. And classes wind down in the same way, with guided meditation and corpse pose, or savasana, which Istace likes to call happy adult nap time.

The rage is sprinkled throughout, with a less peaceful environment and music, depending on whos teaching. Some of her instructors like to bring the funk, including party lights and classic rock and metal music. And then there are the out of the yoga box exercises, such as fists of fire and let that (expletive) go, where attendees are guided to stand and breathe and take in the (expletive) as they reach their arms high, and fold forward with a loud exhale and vocalization and instructed to let go of the (expletive).

For some, that means screaming, Istace said. For some that means saying things. My favorite one, which has become a legend, was somebody in Calgary who said, I asked you to wash the dishes yesterday.

Istace first found yoga through an unusual avenue: contortionism. As a teen, she learned to juggle and fell in love with the idea of becoming a full-time entertainer. She expanded her repertoire to include fire eating and fire dance, before moving to China and training for three months at the Beijing International Acrobatic School. From there, she went to Las Vegas to train under a former Cirque Du Soleil contortionist. She still does circus work today.

Learning contortion helped her cross over into the yoga world, when she had no choice but to embrace finding peace in moments of extreme discomfort, such as when trainers would stand on her legs for 40 long seconds while she practiced her splits. Learning to be comfortable in uncomfortable physical, emotional and spiritual realms is a backbone of yoga.

Its why the rage yoga approach to yoga is necessary, Istace said. Not everybody can be chill right away. Right now Im serene. Its what I found there. But in order to do the things I wanted to do and see the results and have the experiences I wanted, I wouldnt be perfect right away. I had to breathe and accept.

While some more traditional yogis might take offense to rage yoga, she doesnt see much difference between the two styles.

Anger and the not so happy emotions arent inherently un-yogic, she said. Yoga is about everything, the whole picture, the holistic view of a person. Those feelings are part of it. Denying them is not helpful. Anger is really important. We need to have it and digest it and use it in a healthy way, and not let it fester. Rage yoga isnt about working up into a tantrum. You can come and say you had the best day, like you got to pet 10 kittens, and have an awesome class.

Contact the writer: 636-0270
A feared large-scale protest outside of Chinook Trail Middle School failed to materialize Tuesday.

Academy School District 20's Chinook Trail Elementary School shut down and Chinook Trail middle schoolers learned remotely Tuesday after the Colorado Springs Police Department received an inquiry about a permit to allow 1,600 protesters to demonstrate outside the middle school.

While police did not issue a special events permit, which would only be required for a large-scale protest that closes off streets, the district elected to cancel elementary school classes and hold middle school classes remotely out of "an abundance of caution" to keep students safe and try to mitigate the disruption to the student's learning environment, Allison Cortez, spokeswoman for the district, said. The elementary school is next door to the middle school.

Colorado Springs' largest district made local and regional headlines after investigating an allegation that Chinook Trail Middle School staff members were securing masks to students faces with tape. At last Thursdays school board meeting, several parents and local residents showed up wearing blue tape on their faces and clothes in protest. The district has interviewed dozens of students and employees and is in the process of analyzing statements, officials said.

The school district issued a mask mandate last month, citing a spike in positive COVID-19 cases and quarantines.

Shortly after Chinook Trail Middle School's first and second bells rang out across the school grounds Tuesday, a cluster of about 10 concerned parents and community members gathered on a sidewalk corner across the street from the school with signs and American flags in hand.

When Rob Rogers, a District 20 parent, heard protesters might show up to the school, he was outraged.

"We're basically a counterprotest of sorts just to let them know they can try as hard as they want, but we're just moms and dads in the district that care about the students and we're not going to be intimated by them."

Rogers carried a sign that read "Kids First!"

"We're out here to show support for the teachers and administrators here that have had their day disrupted," Rogers said.

Other parents waved signs that read "Stop the Hate" and "Let Teachers Teach." Cars and trucks drove past honking their horns in solidarity while others gave thumbs down as they rode past.

Cari Karns, another District 20 parent, stopped by before heading to work Tuesday and waved a sign that read "Kids 1st Not Politics." Karns said she was worried about the people who might come to the school and protest.

"They (students) just want to be in school," Karns said. "They want to be around their friends. They want to be in-person for their lessons and anything we do that promotes that is great. When we have disruptions like this that pull kids out of school, it just breaks my heart."

O'Dell Isaac contributed to this report.
A public memorial service for legendary Colorado Springs artist Michael Charles Garman will be held at Bancroft Park on Nov. 7, a news release from Michael Garman Museum & Gallery announced.

Garman, a famed local sculptor and businessman, died Oct. 8 at age 83. He lived in the Pikes Peak region for over 50 years, sculpting thousands of pieces including cowboys, firefighters and others "capturing the great American spirit."

Garman's studio lies in the center of Old Colorado City and displays one of Garman's crowning achievements, Magic Town, a 3,000-square-foot cityscape of miniature people and buildings.

Garman "decided to end his life as he had lived, on his terms," after years of deteriorating health and suffering a stroke in September that posed a difficult recovery, the release said. He turned over the operation of his company, Michael Garman Productions, to his daughter, Vanessa, when he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure in 2008.

Before his death, he told of living a bold life with no regrets, the release said: "Along the way, Ive made some beautiful mistakes, but I learned from each one of them. "Ive never been frightened of life or, for that matter, of death. Thats probably why Ive been able to live  to really live. And it has been a hell of a ride.

The memorial service for Garman will start at 1 p.m. The Michael Garman Museum & Gallery will remain closed during the ceremony to give the facility's staff a chance to attend the service, the release said.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife is reminding dog owners to keep their furry companions away from wildlife after two deer were fatally wounded by dogs in Jefferson County.

The two incidents in Jefferson County involved dogs mortally wounding doe deer. One of the incidents happened on Oct. 20 in Evergreen, and the dog owner was cited for illegal take of the deer and for negligently allowing their dog to harass wildlife, officials said.

The second incident also involved a dog mortally wounding a deer, but the dog and its owner have not been identified.

"People may forget that their pet dog is a predator and they can injure and kill wildlife if not properly controlled," CPW wildlife officer Joe Nicholson said in a release. "Dog owners are liable for the damage they cause to wildlife."

Officials said whether the dog is attacking wildlife, chasing, or both, these actions are illegal and can carry hefty fines.

Dog owners could be cited for negligently allowing their dog to harass wildlife, which carries a $274 fine. If a dog attack leads to the death of wildlife, the owner can be cited for illegal take, which carries a $959 fine for deer and more than $1,300 for elk, officials said.

Canines who chase wild animals can cause extreme stress and injuries from bites. If this happens during the late winter months, many big-game animals who are susceptible to dog harassment are pregnant, officials said.

As they run to try to escape, deer and elk expend crucial energy that can lead to an increase in the mortality rate of the animals or unborn calves and fawns.

"By winter, deer and elk are just trying to survive the snow and lack of forage," Nicholson said. "If dogs chase them, they quickly expend their already limited fat stores, leading to poor health and eventual death from starvation. That is what we are trying to prevent."

While it might be legal to allow dogs to run free in some recreation areas across the state, wildlife managers strongly encourage keeping pets on a leash whenever encounters with animals are possible.

"The stress and injuries caused by dogs are concerns, but so are conflicts," said area wildlife manager Mark Lamb. "Each year, we investigate numerous incidents in which a person is injured by a wild animal. A common factor in many of these situations is that the victim's dog approached or harassed the animal."

Lamb added that animals such as a moose see dogs as a threat and will aggressively try to stomp any dog that approaches it. In many instances, the dog then runs back to its owner, who then becomes a target of the moose.

In 2021, there have been four moose attacks in Colorado, three of which involved dogs and resulted in injuries to humans, according to Colorado Parks and Wildlife.

Wildlife officers encourage anyone who witnesses a dog chasing wildlife to contact their local wildlife officer or the Colorado State Patrol. Denver's office can be reached at 303-291-7227 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
That color you see in the woods represents careful management of wildlife | Wildlife Matters
Mark Hillman served as Senate Majority Leader and State Treasurer. To read more or comment, go to www.MarkHillman.com.
Attorneys sparred Tuesday before the Colorado Supreme Court, debating how far the state's new redistricting commission must go to empower minority voters and whether its congressional map should be used for the next decade.

Debate centered on a key passage from the voter-approved amendments that created the new independent redistricting process in Colorado in 2018, which prohibits "diluting the impact of ... racial or language minority group's electoral influence."

The commission's attorneys have said the phrase is a restatement of federal voting rights laws that apply to district maps where it's possible to draw "minority-majority" districts, where a non-white voting bloc makes up the majority of the district, and unlike any districts in the map adopted by the commission in late September.

But civil rights groups and minority advocacy organizations argue the provision requires special considerations, even in districts where minority voters don't comprise a majority, but could be empowered to influence election outcomes, like they claim is the case in some parts of the state. The groups challenging the commission's map say the panel needed a more thorough analysis of minority voting patterns to draw a map avoiding avoid the dilution described in the state constitution.

Congressional redistricting commissioners discussed their approach to minority voting protections at public hearings, but they received legal advice about the issue in closed-door sessions, designed to maintain attorney-client privilege. The congressional redistricting commission didn't conduct a "racially polarized voting analysis," which has become a routine in redistricting, when facing these questions.

Because Colorado has a dispersed Hispanic population that can't be drawn into a single "minority-majority" district, the critics argue, upholding the commission's process would mean the influence of minority voters in the state would be practically off-limits for any redistricting under the new system.

"If the court agrees with the commission, we will have made race a forbidden topic in this state," said Kendra Beckwith, an attorney with the Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy & Research Organization.

Justice Monica Marquez said she struggled with how the court could establish a standard to use to determine whether minority voter dilution occurred: "How much is constitutionally sufficient?" she asked.

Beckwith argued for an analysis that explores the effect of district options on minority voting blocs, which the commission did not perform.

Some of the justices questioned the commission's position, as well as what the commission is permitted to decide.

Justice Melissa Hart, in questions to the commission's attorneys remarked, "the inclusion of that language, 'electoral influence,' seems to be doing something beyond the VRA (federal Voting Rights Act of 1965)," contradicting the commission's legal position.

"It feels like the commission has decided, 'well, we think that's unconstitutional, so we're not going to apply it,'" Justice Richard Gabriel said, "and I'm not sure, with all great due respect, that the commission has that authority."

The justices also wondered, during the hearing, how rejecting the adopted map would play out, if they agree with the challengers to the map, but the exact process, everyone involved has said, is unclear, as this is the first time for the new system.

The state Supreme Court will decide what to do with the adopted map by Nov. 1. It could approve the map, which would lead to its implementation for the next decade. Or the court could reject it, and send it back to the commission for alterations.
The state Capitol building is seen on the final day of the legislative session.
SALIDA -- Accused of murder, Barry Morphew walked into a Chaffee County courtroom flanked by his two adult daughters Tuesday for a three and a half hour hearing which had the judge exasperated over time spent over defense motions, which he called "old and a bit broad."
The owners of Colorado's largest gold mine near Cripple Creek have taken the first step to begin underground mining just north of the mountain town, but there are many more hurdles to clear before the first ounce of gold is recovered, according to a mine spokesman. Cripple Creek & Victor Gold Mining Co., acquired in August by Greenwood Village-based Newmont Mining Corp., is seeking approval from Colorado regulators to expand the boundaries of its mining operation to include the site a half-mile south of the Cripple Creek Heritage and Information Center and the Molly Kathleen Mine tourist attraction.
Attorneys for the man from Indian Hills charged in connection with the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol have asked a judge to allow him to live at the home of his partner in New York while he awaits trial, according to a court filing made Friday.
St. Paul Lutheran Church, located in Garner, will be hold its 14th annual Ethnic Bake Sale Saturday, Nov. 13 and on Saturday, Dec. 11.

Due to COVID-19, St. Paul Lutheran Church will follow the same advance ordering guidelines as last year. The sale will require advance ordering and there will be no extra items available on sale day. Pick-up times will be between 9 a.m. and noon on sale day.

Lefse, kolaches and Dutch letters will be available to purchase. In addition, there will be a wide variety of ethnic breads, cookies and other holiday goodies.

Enter using either the east or west door into the bell tower or use the guided drive-up service by entering the north drive of the west parking lot. Handicap accessibility can be requested by calling (641)-923-3010.

Orders for the November sales must be called in on or before Nov. 7. Orders for the Dec. sale must be called in on or before Dec. 5. To see a listing of the items for sale, go to www.stpaulgarner.org and look under Announcements or go to St. Paul Lutherans Facebook page for the complete listing.

Half of the profits will be put towards missions and the other half will go to Lutheran Womens Missionary League.

Abby covers education and public safety for the Globe Gazette. Follow her on Twitter at @MkayAbby. Email her at Abby.Koch@GlobeGazette.com

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Melissa Fabian loves to know the stories behind the items she salvages for reuse.

It was that way with the inner-city Detroit home she rehabilitated, and it's that way with many of the architectural features of her new Mason City store, Simply Nourished.

Fabian can tell you not only the full history of her building, 13-15 Federal Ave. S., but also why it has two numbers (the bank that formerly inhabited one of the buildings knocked down the shared wall that separated the lower part of the two), and that one corner in the back of her store was once the denim department of Bergo's.

And it will be that way with the four apartments Fabian will build from the historic debris of the upper floor of her building.

"It was always my plan, from the time I first toured the building," Fabian said of her vision to turn the upper level of the building into housing. But even the most humble of rehabbing dreams require money, and Fabian was thinking big.

Her plan was to rehab each of the four roughly 1,200-square-foot apartments one by one, using the proceeds from each to begin work on the next. The project is expected to cost about $1 million. But last year, when Congress passed the CARES Act, a bill providing federal pandemic-related relief funding, a new source of money became available through the state's economic development authority.

The state received $21 million in Community Development Block Grant money to award to projects that met one of three national objectives: prevention and elimination of slum and blight, benefiting low to moderate income persons or meeting an urgent need.

Steven Van Steenhuyse, the city's director of development services, said while he doesn't have exact numbers, anecdotally there's little question the city is in dire need of rental housing. Van Steenhuyse pointed to a recent project by local dentist Jay Lala, who renovated the upper floor of the Northwestern Hall building on North Federal Avenue with the aid of Main Street Mason City, which applied for and received a Main Street Iowa grant on Lala's behalf. Seven new apartments came from that project.

How to get started Interested in seeing what money is available for housing conversion downtown? Reach out to Emily Ginneberge at Main Street Mason City, 641-494-0003, or Mason City Director of Development Services Steven Van Steenhuyse at 641-421-3626. For general information about development grants that may be available visit the Iowa Economic Development Authority at Iowaeda.com

Back in 2013, Lala did the same with the upper floors of the building where his business, Central Park Dentistry, is housed, creating 13 apartments there.

They are all always full with a waiting list, Van Steenhuyse said.

Emily Ginneberge, executive director of Main Street Mason City, agrees. And Ginneberge says it's not just young professionals seeking out this housing.

"We have an abundance of spaces downtown that could be turned into housing," she said. "And we and the city can help." Ginneberge cited as an example a Mason Street Iowa program that provides initial planning expertise to someone looking to convert space into housing.

There is also an unprecedented amount of federal money available for projects like Lala's and Fabian's right now, according Van Steenhuyse.

"There's probably no better time than now to do something like this," Van Steenhuyse said. "I don't see this happening again in my lifetime."

Under the CDBG program, the city is required to apply for the money on behalf of the developer, and the Mason City City Council gave its OK to apply for Fabian in September. She was awarded a $500,000 grant. Three of the four apartments Fabian will create must be rented to applicants within a certain income level - for example, a couple applying to live there cannot earn more than $47,000 annually. That's roughly 80% of area's median income.

"This is housing for workforce that's all throughout our downtown and it's an important aspect to making sure we're able to house those individuals," Mason City City Administrator Aaron Burnett told the city council before it approved applying for the grant.

Fabian's passion for the project is on clear display as she walks the upper floors of her building. Amid the broken vintage '50s ceiling tiles and green-colored walls, her vision comes to life.

The wall of windows that once were part of the bank president's office will now bring light into a new bedroom space. A blank wall will get sliding glass doors so the new resident can walk out onto the roof onto a private patio. Another apartment will take advantage of the building's pitched roof and feature exposed beams. A mid-century cast iron kitchen sink with attached workspace and drawers waits for cleaning up and installation in its new home.

Each apartment will tell its own story of the people and businesses that came there before.

"I'm not really the owner [of the building]," Fabian said. "I'm really just the caretaker of its history. My hope is that more people will do that."

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Around 30 people attended an Iowa Workforce Development round-table workshop, Monday morning, which was presented to provide employers experiencing staff shortages with resources, including a guide to Gov. Kim Reynolds' Economic Recovery Advisory Board recommendations.

The pandemic kind of caught everybody flat-footed," said Iowa Workforce Development Director Beth Townsend. "The employers were not quite ready for anything that changed in the way that you work and the way that you produce things and the way that you manage your workforce."

Recommendations included employers increasing short-term credit and non-credit training programs, providing wrap-around benefits, and expanding work-based learning initiatives that forge school-business partnerships.

According to Townsend, another employment obstacle being confronted by Gov. Reynolds is the availability of child care. A task force initiated by the governor is slated to soon release a strategic plan to address eligibility expansion for child care assistance, child care workforce issues, and increasing employer investment and engagement opportunities in child care.

We want to make sure that we do our best to get employers more engaged in creating childcare facilities, investing in childcare facilities, and just even being aware of putting their resources into creating childcare facilities that are going to help their workforce," Townsend said.

Future Ready Iowa Policy Advisor Kathy Leggett presented attendees with the idea of developing their workforce through work-based learning like apprenticeships and internships for high schoolers. Leggett added that providing students with the opportunity to explore post-secondary education paths outside of four-year schools is a good move.

Clear Lake High School Counselor Deb Sharar highlighted the schools growing apprenticeship program. The program has apprenticeships in welding and construction and has gone from 16 students to, now, 50 interested students.

Sharar said students are able to earn money while taking part in these apprenticeship programs, working with area businesses Dean Snyder Construction and with Iowa Mold Tooling in Garner.

Director of Emerging Workforce Solutions for NIACC Melinda McGregor discussed connecting with students through online and in-person informational events which allowed students to explore career possibilities and ask questions of employers.

Employers also learned of several resources accessible through Iowa Works, including grants available for employers who allow youth to receive work-based learning.

For information on the next round-table event, visit futurereadyiowa.gov/workforce-roundtables-2021.

Abby covers education and public safety for the Globe Gazette. Follow her on Twitter at @MkayAbby. Email her at Abby.Koch@GlobeGazette.com

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A Des Moines-based church that uses a hallucinogenic drug in religious ceremonies is challenging the Internal Revenue Services decision to deny it tax-exempt status.

According to the lawsuit, filed recently in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, the Iowaska Church of Healing was formed in Iowa as a non-profit corporation in September 2018.

Corporate records indicate the church is run by Admir Dado Kantarevic, along with Billy Benskin and Merzuk Ramic, and its official location is Kantarevics home, located at 4114 27th St., Des Moines. The lawsuit makes references to the church having 20 members at one point in time.

The churchs teachings are built around the use of ayahuasca, which is brewed from the leaves of the shrubs and vines found in the Amazon. Elements of those plants have powerful hallucinogenic properties, which the church says can be used to awaken the Third Eye of its followers.

The Third Eye is described by the church on its website as an organ that no one speaks about at school or in private and which is secretly protected in the geometric center of your skull.

In court filings, the church says that in January 2019 it filed an application with the IRS seeking tax-exempt status and was denied. With the assistance of U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassleys office, the lawsuit alleges, the appeals process at the IRS was expedited and an appeal conference was held in April of this year.

A final determination letter denying tax-exempt status was issued in June of this year, stating that the churchs use of the Sacrament of Ayahuasca in its religious practices was illegal, the lawsuit claims.

In court filings, the church acknowledges that under the federal Controlled Substances Act, an ingredient of ayahuasca called dimethyltryptamine or DMT, is a Schedule I drug and a hallucinogenic alkaloid, and that there is no statutory exemption allowing for its use in religious ceremonies.

According to the church, however, the IRS decision to withhold tax-exempt status directly contradicts a past U.S. Supreme Court ruling and also violates the Religious Freedom Restoration Act of 1993.

The case that was heard by the Supreme Court involves a different church whose members received communion by drinking ayahuasca in the form of a tea brewed from plants found in the Amazon rainforest. After U.S. Customs seized a shipment of ayahuasca that was being shipped to the church, federal authorities threatened criminal prosecution and the church filed a lawsuit for injunctive relief.

The government conceded that while the sacramental use of ayahuasca was an exercise of religion, the sacramental use of the substance was still prohibited by law. The Supreme Court ruled the governments actions violated the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and it affirmed a lower courts preliminary injunction in favor of the church.

According to the lawsuit, the IRS has stated the Des Moines church has been formed for an illegal purpose  the distribution of a controlled substance.

The Iowaska Church of Healing disputes that and says its mission is to help individuals attain healing of the mind, body and spirit through the sacred Sacrament of Ayahuasca under the guidelines of North and South American indigenous traditions and cultural values.

Church leader convicted in high-profile drug case

The lawsuit states that ayahuasca is consumed in the form of a tea during the churchs religious ceremonies and that its services also involve prayers, smudging and spiritual music. The basis of its doctrine emanates from the Ayahuasca Manifesto, a document that details the role of ayahuasca in the expansion of consciousness, the church says.

In February 2019, the church filed a request with the Drug Enforcement Administration, seeking a religious exemption from the Controlled Substance Act. To date, the church alleges, the DEA has delivered no substantive response to the request, despite repeated follow-up inquiries, including one sent by Grassleys office.

The IRS has yet to file a response to the lawsuit.

Court records indicate that in December 2005, Kantarevic, then a personal trainer, was convicted of possession of anabolic steroids and sentenced to one year of probation. He was charged in connection with a federal investigation into the illegal importation of steroids for bodybuilders.

In his written guilty plea, Kantarevic acknowledged having received more than 3,500 grams of anabolic steroids through the mail in Des Moines, from both Thailand and California, with the intent of keeping some of the drug and mailing the rest to others.

As part of his plea, he acknowledged that it was his understanding the drugs came from Milos Sarcev and were to be paid for by Dennis James.

At the time, Sarcev and James were internationally known, competitive bodybuilders. Sarcev was a two-time holder of the title Mr. Yugoslavia, and James was a top competitor in the 2004 Mr. Universe contest.

Both men later pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess anabolic steroids.

Iowa Capital Dispatch is part of States Newsroom, a network of news outlets supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Iowa Capital Dispatch maintains editorial independence.

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Steven Springer, 54, of Hampton, pleaded guilty on Oct. 21 to conspiracy to distribute heroin while possessing a firearm in furtherance of that crime.

Springer was previously convicted on May 22, 2002 of the manufacturing of methamphetamine in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Iowa.

During his plea hearing in federal court in Sioux City, Springer admitted to being involved with a distribution scheme for heroin and methamphetamine between December 2020 and February 2021.

Springer admitted to getting paid to receive packages of meth and heroin from sources in Mexico, redistribute the drugs as directed and wire the proceeds back to the source.

On Feb. 4, Springer received over "920 grams of heroin, hidden inside footwear, sent from Mexico to Iowa through the United States Postal Service," a release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Iowa said.

At the time he was arrested, Springer was also in possession of "more than 14 grams of pure methamphetamine, a .380 caliber handgun, with loaded magazine, a small quantity of marijuana, and a quantity of psilocybin (mushrooms)," the release said.

About a month prior to his receipt of the heroin, Springer received approximately half a pound of methamphetamine from the same source, which he redistributed in central Iowa, according to the release.

Sentencing will be set following the preparation of a presentence report. He remains in custody of the United States Marshal and will remain so pending sentencing.

Springer faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years' imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, an $8,000,000 fine and eight years to life of supervised release following any imprisonment.

Melanie Mergen is Local News Editor for the Globe Gazette. You can reach her at melanie.mergen@globegazette.com.

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Six Franklin County landowners whose property was swamped by muddy runoff from the Mountain Valley Pipeline three years ago have settled their lawsuit against the company.

Terms of the settlement were not disclosed in a brief order filed in Roanokes federal court.

Brought in May 2018, the lawsuit sought damages for three couples who live a short distance from Cahas Mountain Road, which was buried in about eight inches of mud that washed from a construction site during heavy rains.

The runoff continued downhill to land owned by Wendell and Mary Flora, leaving a blanket of sediment and muddy water that covered hayfields and made its way into nearly streams, the lawsuit alleged.

Glenn and Linda Frith and Michael and Frances Hurt, who live less than half a mile away, claimed they suffered similar harm from erosion caused by a several-day storm that started May 15, 2018.

The lawsuit accused Mountain Valley of creating a nuisance, damaging property that it had not acquired through eminent domain and trespassing by virtue of the soil, water and mud that it allowed to invade its neighbors land.
I am a firewall for reproductive health care, and empowering individuals to make their own choices about their own bodies, she said.

Asked whether she believes abortion rights need to be expanded, she said she supports enshrining Roe v. Wade in the state Constitution. But she declined to say whether she would vote to eliminate Virginias requirement for minors to obtain parental consent to get an abortion.

Sears campaign declined to make her available for an interview, responding instead with requests for a list of written questions in advance. She has also refused to answer questions about whether she has gotten the coronavirus vaccine, something for which Ayala has criticized her.

Ayala supports vaccine mandates for state workers and mask mandates in schools, her campaign said.

During the primary, Sears ridiculed mask mandates put in place by Democratic Gov. Ralph Northam, posting a video in which she pulled a mask off a cardboard cutout of Northam and stomped it into the sand, with the Virginia Beach boardwalk in the background.
It was New Years Eve. Devin Lyall sat in the back bedroom of her drug dealers house.

Her thin fingers fumbled with the syringe. Her fingers werent the only frail thing about her  in the past few months she had lost about 40 pounds, leaving her practically skin and bones.

She was using Opana, a strong narcotic, melting the small, circular pills into a liquid that she could inject.

As the dregs of 2012 trickled into the New Year, Lyall didnt have much hope. It was as if her life was ticking away as quickly as the seconds remaining before midnight.

She was shaking, chills running through her body, yet she was so hot she felt like she was on fire. She kept injecting, hoping it was the relief her body needed.

She woke up later, lying in a hospital bed. Her mother and father stood over her. She wasnt sure when or how she had gotten there.

Lyall had overdosed.

The drug dealer had called her mother, who rushed her to Wilkes Medical Center. They made it in time for doctors to give Lyall the reversal drug naloxone, saving her life.
STONEVILLE  Gregory Pallet and Lumber Co. plans to make a $3.4 million capital investment in its first North Carolina operation here, economic development officials announced Tuesday.

The corporation plans to offer 25 full-time jobs at the facility, which will be located in the NorthStar Business Park shell building. Pay will average around $36,500, county officials said, though county economic development officials did not know exactly when the plant will begin hiring or operations.

The N.C. Department of Commerce's Rural Infrastructure Authority helped the county win the commitment from the pallet manufacturer on Oct. 21 with the approval of Rockingham Countys request for $100,000 to assist the company with the upfit of the building, according to a news release.

North Carolinas Building Reuse Program provides grant funding to support a variety of activities, including infrastructure development, building renovation, expansion, demolition, and site improvements. Such funds allotted to the county will help remodel the 63,000-square-foot North Star building, according to the release.

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We are excited to expand into North Carolina where our business is growing, said Mike Gregory, company owner, thanking the county, the state and Stoneville for their support.
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Kattya Castellon, who co-owns the store with Sanchez, was not charged by police, Aberle said. The store at 529 S. Elm St. remains open.

THC, the main ingredient in cannabis, comes in different forms, including delta-8, which is legal in North Carolina. Delta-8 products are among hemp stores bestsellers.

Its delta-9  the more potent, largely illegal THC  that is only permitted in hemp products if 0.3% or less is present. Delta-8 products are made from legal hemp that do not exceed the delta-9 THC limit.

Just last week, Greensboro police spokesman Ron Glenn said the investigation into Essential Hemp was active, indicating no more information about their investigation would be shared.

After more than a month had passed with no word from police, Sanchez began to suspect the testing done by police was faulty. Aberle expressed the same concerns.

Sanchez said he received his products from reputable supply companies, along with certifications that list the amount of delta-8, delta-9 and other compounds present in each product.

His products even arrive to him in packaging marked with QR codes. When scanned by a phone, test results of that particular batch are displayed.
Winters, however, have not been normal lately.

Last April 1, the date when the snowpack is typically at its deepest and contains the greatest amount of water, the state Department of Water Resources' system of electronic monitors found it was only 59% of average.

Then, in a stunning development, about 80% of the predicted runoff never appeared. Soils were so dry and temperatures so warm that the water instead was soaked up or evaporated, and reservoir water storage fell to shocking levels.

One of those huge reservoirs, Lake Oroville, has risen more than 20 feet (6 meters) since the series of storms began last week, but the Department of Water Resources website showed it was at just 27% of capacity Tuesday.

The early season storms were beneficial but officials say much more rain is needed.

We have much less accumulated precipitation over the past few years than we should normally receive and the soils are particularly dry  we cannot fix this condition with one storm, Anderson said.
GOP support for maps

Yet while Ramsey found some common ground with the liberal-leaning speakers at the public hearing, she also warned GOP lawmakers not to draw an even 7-7 split, as many others asked for. She predicted it would be just as likely to lead to lawsuits as a map that creates a GOP advantage.

The only way theres not going to be a court battle is if you give the Democrats all the seats, she said.

Another conservative commentator, Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation think tank, similarly told GOP lawmakers not to be swayed by the almost unanimously critical comments they received Monday.

Lets not pretend that the comments we hear at these hearings are representative of the general public, he said.

2019 deja vu?

The back-and-forth over outside consultants and map-making skulduggery may sound familiar to those who followed the states most recent gerrymandering lawsuit, in 2019.

In that case, a bipartisan panel of judges ruled that Republican legislators had potentially lied about an outside consultant who drew the maps, and how he drew them.
RALEIGH  The NC State Fair finished with its lowest attendance total in more than a decade, though organizers celebrated the numbers as higher-than-expected for the lingering pandemic.

With preliminary totals tallied through Sunday, the fair drew 821,463 people, down 12% from 2019  its last year before COVID-19.

Though the Raleigh fair shut its gates completely in 2020, before anyone in the state had been vaccinated, its attendance this year dropped lower than any year since 2008, when 765,067 people came.

The 2021 State Fair was absolutely wonderful and exceeded expectations, NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler said in a news release. It took a lot of hard work by a lot of people to put this on, but it was absolutely worth it. Seeing people enjoying themselves and experiencing a bit of normalcy was a great feeling.

Unlike some states, North Carolina opted against requiring masks or vaccinations for fair-goers this year, though it urged both as COVID-19 precautions.

As of early last week, Wake County announced it had vaccinated nearly 100 people at the fairgrounds.
Tucked into an easy-to-miss corner off an especially busy stretch of West Wendover Avenue, the Guilford County animal shelter all too often has been treated like the poor animals that wind up there: somebody elses problem.

So, for far too many years the facility had been out of sight and out of mind, entrusted to third-party caretakers for whom meaning well did not always translate to doing good.

In 2015, worst came to worst. The N.C. Department of Agriculture fined the shelters nonprofit operator, the United Animal Coalition, $300,000 for animal abuse and neglect in not only the Guilford shelter, but in a facility in Davidson County as well.

The civil penalties were the highest ever issued against an animal shelter in North Carolina and the shelters director, who was employed by UAC, was arrested on charges of animal cruelty.

Since that episode, the county has done what it should have all along, and taken full responsibility for the facility. First, it stabilized leadership and added resources.

Now it has invested in a new building at a new location.
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Jorgensons Inn and Suites, a Helena business with more than a half-century history of being a political hotspot and gathering spot where deals were made, has entered into a franchise agreement and will be known as Ramada by Wyndham, an employee said Monday.

Ann Marie Bowers, Jorgenson's general manager, said the restaurant, bar and apartments will retain the Jorgenson name. However, the 112-room hotel will be part of the Ramada chain.

We are just franchising, Bowers said. We are the same owners.

She said staff is staying the same and the property will retain its core values. Bowers said the deal was reached a couple weeks ago.

She said it is the first time Jorgenson's has entered into a franchise agreement. She said the 10 Montana-based owners include a couple members of the original family.

Employees were answering the phone by the new name on Monday.

Bowers said there are hopes the Ramada name will attract more people and that the marketing of the hotel played a primary role in the decision.

Ramada has assured (the owners) that occupancy will increase, she said.

Ramada officials did not return an email seeking comment.

The Facebook page for Jorgensons says it has been a Montana tradition for nearly 50 years.

The inn at 1714 11th Ave. was where many lawmakers would stay during legislative sessions.

Good gracious for 40 years it was THE place, said Dave Lewis, a former state lawmaker and budget director. During the legislative session it was where the legislators went to visit and cut their deals.

Lewis said when he served as budget director in the 80s he would often attend a 7 a.m. breakfast held by the House and Senate leadership to discuss how to proceed with the budget.

Lewis said that in the past few years there were other places that surfaced where lawmakers would stay.

Bowers said she was sure the hotel would continue to be a popular place during the legislative session. She also added development on the site of the former Capital Hill Mall -- which will include a Benefis Health System medical facility and other businesses -- will help.

According to a history posted on the Jorgensons website, Fred Jorgenson, a young Danish immigrant, was traveling through Montana on his way to California in 1912 when the train broke down in Helena. By the time it was repaired several days later, Jorgenson decided he would make his home in Helena instead.

The family built Jorgensons Restaurant, adjacent to a 37-unit motel near the state Capitol in 1958. The motel was later purchased by the Jorgenson family and was expanded into a 102-room complex.

Jorgensons became a landmark in Helena, the convenience and quality of the restaurant and lounge, not only drew the family trade, but because of its proximity to the Capitol, many businessmen, state officials, legislators and lobbyists found Jorgensons their in town home, the website states.

Assistant editor Phil Drake can be reached at 406-231-9021.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  A lawyer for a Guantanamo Bay detainee says the Supreme Court should wait to decide a case involving his client until it's clear what the Biden administration will let the man say about his torture abroad by the CIA.

The lawyer for Abu Zubaydah told the Supreme Court in a letter Monday that a case involving his client argued at the high court earlier this month should be put on hold for the time being. An agreement by the government to let Zubaydah provide information could mean the Supreme Court doesn't need to issue a ruling on when the government can shield information by saying it's a state secret.

Zubaydah was captured in Pakistan in 2002 and thought to be a high-ranking member of al-Qaida, the terrorist group that carried out the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington. He was tortured while being held at so-called CIA black sites abroad before being transferred to Guantanamo Bay in 2006.

According to a Senate report, among other things Zubaydah was waterboarded more than 80 times and spent over 11 days in a coffin-size confinement box.

It's been widely reported that Zubaydah was held at black sites in Thailand and Poland, but the U.S. government has not confirmed that. Polish officials, meanwhile, are investigating his treatment there. As part of that investigation, Zubaydah wants the testimony of two former CIA contractors who developed the CIA's interrogation program.

The Biden administration, like the Trump administration before it, has opposed the questioning, arguing that confirming where Zubaydah was held could damage national security. That's even as the two former contractors have testified publicly on other occasions.

At arguments in the case earlier this month, Justice Neil Gorsuch asked if the government would allow Zubaydah, rather than the contractors, to provide the information to Polish officials about his treatment. Zubaydah's lawyers had said the government was preventing him from doing so.

The Biden administration's top Supreme Court lawyer, acting Solicitor General Brian H. Fletcher, said he'd get back to the justices. In a letter filed a little over a week ago the administration said it would let Zubaydah provide information to Polish officials.

Any declaration written for Polish officials would still be subject to a security review, the government said, meaning it could be redacted. The government noted that a court case in the United States involving Zubaydah already includes a public declaration from him with redactions describing his treatment in CIA custody.

Zubaydahs lawyer David F. Klein, for his part, sounded a skeptical note in his own letter to the court Monday. He wrote it's theoretically possible the Governments new position will lead to a declaration that can help Polish officials. But he said that when Guantanamo prisoners have attempted in the past to describe their torture to the outside world ... the Government has sometimes redacted virtually every word.

Klein said it will take some time to learn whether a statement from Zubaydah would be treated similarly. He said lawyers would need to meet with Zubaydah, prepare a declaration and have it go through the redaction process. He urged the court to set a reasonable deadline for that review to be complete. When it is, he said, "the parties would return to the Court and address the impact of the declaration, if any, on the issues before the Court."

The government claims Zubaydah was an associate and longtime terrorist ally of Osama bin Laden. But Zubaydahs lawyers say the CIA was mistaken in believing he was a high-ranking member of al-Qaida.

The Biden administration has said it will seek to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility.

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

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NEW YORK (AP)  Details are still emerging about how Alec Baldwin accidentally shot and killed a cinematographer on a New Mexico film set, but some political onlookers swiftly assigned guilt to one of Hollywood's most prominent liberals.

Right-wing pundits and politicians have long chafed at Baldwin's criticism of former President Donald Trump and his Trump parody on "Saturday Night Live." They wasted little time zeroing in on the actor who pulled the trigger. The hashtag #AlecForPrison ricocheted around Twitter.

Within hours of the shooting, Ohio Republican Senate candidate J.D. Vance asked Twitter to let Trump back on the social media platform that banned him after the Capitol insurrection. "We need Alec Baldwin tweets," Vance wrote.

By Monday, Trump's oldest son was selling $28 T-shirts on his official website with the slogan "Guns don't kill people, Alec Baldwin kills people." The post was later removed.

Gun violence has long divided the country, but the fact that some observers seemed to revel in Baldwin's role in the shooting added a political dimension to the tragedy. CNN host Jake Tapper on Sunday called Hutchins' death "heartbreaking for normal people."

"But there's something about our politics right now that is driving people away from our shared humanity," Tapper said.

Court records provided some details about the death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of "Rust" near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Authorities have said that the assistant director, Dave Halls, handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced "cold gun," indicating that the weapon was safe to use.

In an affidavit released Sunday night, the film's director, Joel Souza, said Baldwin was rehearsing a scene in which he drew a revolver from his holster and pointed it toward the camera, which Hutchins and Souza were behind. Souza, who was wounded by the shot, said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds.

It's not clear yet where the gun-handling protocol failed. Souza said the movie's guns were usually checked by armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and then again by Halls.

At least two people have aired doubts about Halls' safety record.

In an email statement to The Associated Press, a producer for the movie "Freedom's Path" confirmed Monday that Halls was fired from the 2019 production after a crew member suffered a minor injury "when a gun was unexpectedly discharged." The producer, who asked not to be identified by name, wrote that Halls "was removed from the set immediately." Production did not resume until Halls was gone.

Prop maker Maggie Goll on Sunday said she filed an internal complaint in 2019 over concerns about Halls' behavior on the set of Hulu's "Into the Dark" series. Goll said Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician, who was diabetic, lost consciousness on set.

Neither Gutierrez-Reed nor Halls have responded to requests for comment on the shooting.

In the affidavit, cameraman Reid Russell said Baldwin had been careful with weapons. Russell was unsure whether the weapon was checked before it was handed to Baldwin.

In the aftermath of Hutchins' death, many in the film industry have argued that real guns should be replaced entirely by computer-generated effects.

"There should not have been a loaded gun on set," actor Riley Keough wrote on Instagram. "We don't need real guns, we can make replicas, and we have CGI. In my opinion, that is the issue here. Not Alec Baldwin."

And yet, as director Gigi Saul Guerrero observed, Baldwin has been the "face to this tragic story." The 63-year-old actor, a vocal advocate of gun-law reforms, has been widely mocked by the far-right on social media.

"Literally not one single thing that Alec Baldwin has said about Donald Trump and his supporters is going to age well," tweeted conservative commentator Candace Owens.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Colorado Republican, cited a tweet of Baldwin's last year supporting Black Lives Matter protesters in which Baldwin said he was going to make T-shirts that read: "My hands are up. Please don't shoot me!" Wrote Boebert: "Alec Baldwin, are these still available? Asking for a movie producer."

Boebert received widespread criticism. Actor George Takei said Boebert had "no soul." Actress Rosanna Arquette wrote: "This was a tragic and horrible accident. Ms. Boebart and you should be ashamed of yourself politicizing it." But Boebert stood by her tweet.

"You crazy Blue Checks want to take away our right to defend ourselves with a firearm, and know NOTHING about basic gun safety!" Boebert wrote. "If this was a conservative celebrity you'd be calling for his head."

The film's chief electrician, Serge Svetnoy, blamed producers for Hutchins' death in an emotional Facebook post Sunday. Svetnoy faulted "negligence and unprofessionalism" among those handling weapons on the set, and claimed producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

"I'm sure that we had the professionals in every department, but one  the department that was responsible for the weapons," Svetnoy wrote. "The person who should have checked this weapon before bringing it to the set did not do it. And the DEATH OF THE HUMAN IS THE RESULT!"

A spokesman for the film's production company, Rust Movie Productions LLC, has said it is cooperating with authorities and conducting an internal review. The company said it was halting production on the film but signaled it may resume in the future.

Baldwin has said he is cooperating with the law enforcement investigation and described the shooting as a "tragic accident."

***

Associated Press writers Hillel Italie in New York and Lindsey Bahr in Pittsburgh contributed to this report.

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The House speaker and Senate president of the Montana Legislature on Monday set in motion an investigation into the state attorney general's dispute with St. Peter's Health in Helena.

House and Senate minority leaders requested last week that the Legislature's newly created special counsel investigate St. Peter's reports that three public officials "harassed and threatened" its doctors who refused to administer ivermectin, a drug not approved to treat COVID-19, to a patient who requested it. The Department of Justice confirmed Attorney General Austin Knudsen was one of the officials who spoke with hospital leaders.

The two other officials have not yet been named, and the Department of Justice has not responded to questions by the Montana State News Bureau seeking clarification.

Days before Knudsen spoke with the hospital, the Department of Justice dispatched a Montana Highway Patrol trooper to the hospital on Oct. 12 to gather statements about the dispute after taking a complaint from the patient's family. That trooper then submitted a report to the Lewis and Clark County Attorney's Office, which concluded no criminal offense needed investigating.

The Attorney General's Office has disputed the hospital's version of events, and has claimed it had jurisdiction to investigate "serious allegations" by the family of patient abuse and neglect, pointing to its Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

After receiving additional information Monday on the parameters of the proposed investigation, Senate President Mark Blasdel, R-Kalispell, and House Speaker Wylie Galt, R-Martinsdale, approved the request.

"Speaker Galt and I strongly believe in government transparency and accountability. Serious allegations have been made by St. Peter's Hospital and the media's reporting on several key facts has been unclear," Blasdel said in a statement Monday. "We've agreed to the minority's request and have authorized the Legislature's special counsel to examine any relevant government records in accordance with the law."

A spokesperson for the Senate majority clarified late Monday that the "unclear" items are those sought by lawmakers.

House Minority Leader Kim Abbott, D-Helena, who made the request last week with Senate Minority Leader Jill Cohenour, D-East Helena, said she appreciated GOP leaders sharing the minority party's concerns.

"We're happy that the Speaker and the President took this up," Abbott said. "We feel like its the first step and the next stop for accountability for a very troubling incident of harassment of frontline workers and the potential abuse of power by the attorney general."

A spokesperson for the Attorney General's Office on Monday was dismissive of the investigation.

"Not a single Montana Democrat legislator reached out to our agency with any questions about the incident before this partisan political stunt," spokesperson Kyler Nerison said. "As weve said from the beginning, no one was threatened or had their clinical judgment questioned while the Department of Justice was trying to get to the bottom of the allegations made against the hospital."

The special investigative counsel is one of several positions created by the Legislature to fill a more active role during the interim. Abra Belke, who served as chief of staff for Senate Republicans during the 2021 session, was hired into the new position this summer.

As the Legislature's special counsel, Belke has authority under state law to examine state government records, books and files of any department, agency, commission, board or institution of the state of Montana. Belke does not have the power to subpoena witnesses.

The Legislature's authority to investigate matters has certainly become more defined in the months since the session ended. The Montana Supreme Court ruled in July that lawmakers overstepped their constitutional authority when they subpoenaed the judicial branch for internal records without a legislative purpose. And earlier this month, a legislative attorney advised Republican leaders they lack the authority to appoint a joint committee to probe election security during the interim, although the Senate could go it alone.

The Law and Justice Interim Committee, however, has oversight over the Montana Department of Justice. That committee meets Thursday.

The specific questions Democratic leaders put to Galt and Blasdel on Monday include determining which public officials were involved in the incident, and the extent of their involvement; unearthing any records, notes and internal communications in the Attorney General's Office and, more broadly, Department of Justice related to the dispute; and whether internal policies and practices were followed when the Department of Justice and Montana Highway Patrol became involved in the matter.

The legislative purpose to ground the investigation within the Legislature's authority, as described by Abbott and Cohenour, include determining whether legislation is necessary to enhance the Legislature's oversight over the use and activities of state law enforcement; to clarify the jurisdiction of the Montana Highway Patrol; to clarify when the Department of Justice may intervene in local law enforcement and whether legislation is necessary to prevent "future such abuses of power," among other matters.

"We understand the parameters of our investigatory power outside of being in session and we think all the requests for information are in line with that authority," Abbott said Monday.

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The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has impacted millions across the country, and Montana has not been spared.

After the pandemic ravaged the state, President Bidens executive order to reopen the federal health care exchange allowed approximately 80% of Montanans to receive help paying their premiums and access testing and treatment for COVID-19.

Even before the pandemic, research showed that more than half of Americans with employer-sponsored health insurance had delayed or postponed recommended treatment for themselves or a family member in 2020 due to cost. Now, as insurers continue to make billions while rolling back services like COVID-19 coverage, it has never been more crucial for Montanans to take the time and examine what different health plans do and do not cover. Health insurance practices are changing, and Montanans need to be prepared.

With Open Enrollment beginning Nov. 1 for many Montanans, it is vital that consumers be aware of the potential pitfalls that exist, including changes to COVID-19 coverage, surprise medical bills and junk health plans that fail to cover preexisting conditions. October marks Health Literacy Month, and Consumers for Quality Care (CQC) is helping Americans to understand their options for selecting health insurance coverage and making sure they know the details of the health care plans they are selecting.

Already, insurance companies are changing their policies when it comes to COVID-19. Nearly three-quarters of the largest health plans across the country are ending their COVID-19 cost-sharing waivers, a move that will only harm patients. Health care costs are continuing to rise for Montanans, and CQC research has shown that Montanans overwhelmingly favor policies to lower deductibles and prevent insurance companies from selling junk plans and requiring pre-authorization for life-threatening diseases. It has never been more important to weigh the options and take considerable care when choosing a health plan.

Telehealth has become a lifeline for many Americans during COVID-19, including those in Montana, where the rural makeup of the state often presents a barrier in access to care as many need to drive miles away to the nearest provider. According to a report from KPAX-TV, telehealth options remain extremely important to Montanans, and studies show they will continue to use the service even after the pandemic. Unfortunately, some insurers are already rolling back coverage for this essential tool, which has proven to have profound benefits even beyond the pandemic, particularly in rural and underserved communities who often lack easy access to health care services. When selecting a health plan, consumers should understand how services like telehealth will be covered, and if they will be covered at all.

Surprise medical bills continue to be a major problem for Montanans. According to CQC research, over 70% of Montanans strongly agree that insurance companies should not be allowed to sell plans that cover so little that going to the doctor isnt affordable. Even when they do their due diligence, consumers are still getting stuck with large, unexpected bills. Legislation passed by the U.S. Congress last year will protect many Americans from surprise billing starting next year, but details of the law are still being developed. With many uninformed or in the dark about this ongoing legislative battle, consumers should always check if a provider is in-network and closely examine all medical bills before paying them.

With an estimated one-third of COVID-19 survivors identifying as having lasting effects from the virus, consumers in Montana must be wary of junk health plans like short-term limited-duration insurance plans (STLDIs) that often exclude coverage of preexisting conditions. Montanans looking to save on health care costs should avoid STLDIs, which entice consumers with lower premiums but often leave them without adequate coverage when they need it most.

With a heavy reliance on telehealth services due to Montanas rural makeup and a fear of predatory insurers peddling junk plans with high deductibles, now more than ever, lawmakers, state insurance commissioners, insurers and hospitals need to address rising health care costs and ensure all Americans can access the quality, affordable care they need and deserve. In the meantime, CQC urges Montanans to carefully examine their health insurance options during 2021s Open Enrollment so they can make the best possible decision for themselves and their families.

Donna M. Christensen served nine terms in the U.S. House of Representatives and was the first female physician elected to serve as a House member. She now serves on the board of directors of Consumers for Quality Care.

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Todays Highlight in History:

On October 26th, 2001, President George W. Bush signed the USA Patriot Act, giving authorities unprecedented ability to search, seize, detain or eavesdrop in their pursuit of possible terrorists.

On Oct. 26:

In 1774, the First Continental Congress adjourned in Philadelphia.

In 1825, the Erie Canal opened in upstate New York, connecting Lake Erie and the Hudson River.

In 1861, the legendary Pony Express officially ceased operations, giving way to the transcontinental telegraph. (The last run of the Pony Express was completed the following month.)

In 1881, the Gunfight at the O.K. Corral took place in Tombstone, Arizona, as Wyatt Earp, his two brothers and Doc Holliday confronted Ike Clantons gang. Three members of Clantons gang were killed; Earps brothers and Holliday were wounded.

In 1944, the World War II Battle of Leyte Gulf ended in a major Allied victory over Japanese forces, whose naval capabilities were badly crippled.

In 1965, the Beatles received MBE medals as Members of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire from Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.

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In 1975, Anwar Sadat became the first Egyptian president to pay an official visit to the United States.

In 1979, South Korean President Park Chung-hee was shot to death by the head of the Korean Central Intelligence Agency, Kim Jae-kyu.

In 1984, Baby Fae, a newborn with a severe heart defect, was given the heart of a baboon in an experimental transplant in Loma Linda, California. (Baby Fae lived 21 days with the animal heart.)

In 2002, a hostage siege by Chechen rebels at a Moscow theater ended with 129 of the 800-plus captives dead, most from a knockout gas used by Russian special forces who stormed the theater; 41 rebels also died.

In 2010, Iran began loading fuel into the core of its first nuclear power plant.

In 2011, President Barack Obama recalled his struggles with student loan debt as he unveiled a plan at the University of Colorado Denver aimed at giving millions of young people some relief on their payments. In a verdict that disappointed pro-democracy activists, two Egyptian policemen who beat a man to death were convicted of the lesser charge of manslaughter and given a relatively light sentence in a case that helped spark Egypts uprising.

In 2016, the Pentagon worked to stave off a public relations nightmare, suspending efforts to force California National Guard troops who served in Iraq and Afghanistan to repay enlistment bonuses that might have been improperly awarded. The Chicago Cubs beat Cleveland 5-1 in Game 2 for their first victory during a World Series since 1945.

In 2018, former Fox News Channel personality Megyn Kelly was fired from her NBC morning show after triggering an uproar by suggesting it was OK for white people to wear blackface at Halloween.

In 2020, Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed to the Supreme Court by a deeply divided Senate, with Republicans overpowering Democrats to install President Donald Trumps nominee days before the election and secure a likely conservative court majority for years to come. Police in Philadelphia shot and killed Walter Wallace, a 27-year-old Black man with a history of mental health problems, after yelling at him to drop his knife; the shooting, which brought the issues of policing and racism back into the presidential campaign in its closing days, was followed by days of civil unrest and store break-ins that led the mayor to impose an overnight curfew the following night.

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DECATUR  Technology became a necessity for Linda Brandon while she owned Linda's Music in Decatur.

Back in the mid to late '90s, we thought, 'OK, we've got to do this, we've got to get a computer,' and we had one built, said Brandon, who closed her store in 2020 and retired. You couldn't just go to Best Buy and buy one like you do today."

She remembers how store manager Hugh Reeves and her were "were kind of halfway lost." But through trial and error, they figured it out.

Educators often refer to students today as digital natives because they've never known a world without computers, cell phones and iPads. Even a small child seems to instinctively know how to use them.

But people who grew up with rotary dial phones, no cable TV, and before computers were in every home and office had to learn to use them, and some still aren't comfortable. In a world where even ordering at a fast food restaurant might require using a kiosk, and making changes to your cable TV lineup requires a visit to the company website, not being comfortable with technology can really hamper daily life.

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I'm passionate about information literacy, said Steven Ward, library director at Forsyth Public Library. He offers computer classes at the library for all ages.

When I got out of library school, my library school was geared toward instruction and reference," he said. "My first two jobs were at academic libraries  Murray College and the University of Illinois at Springfield  and I was instructional librarian. That just helped just fuel a passion for instruction and basically creating lifelong learning opportunities and skills for people of all ages, especially seniors who might be picking up skills later in life.

'So many different opportunities'

Ward teaches the use of social media and email, and basic computer skills that are a necessity nowadays. Without those skills, navigating even simple tasks like paying bills or signing up for Social Security might be insurmountable. He's new to the Forsyth library and once he's settled in, he said, he will start writing lesson plans and scheduling computer skills classes to offer.

I'm teaching information literacy to help people in all facets of life, academically, professionally or even through learning social media and email, he said. There are so many different opportunities to learn and grow. I'm just trying to help them pick up and learn skills that help make life easier in this digital world we live in.

Julie O'Laughlin teaches a computer skills class for adults at Richland Community College and said seniors are often apprehensive about technology, but practice and step-by-step instructions help them get over the hump.

In her experience, she said, "some people jumped on board, while others were kicking and screaming and others were so intimidated that they felt that by avoiding technology they didn't have to learn how to use it.

Said O'Laughlin: "The amount of exposure a person has had to the computer before entering a class is the deciding factor on what obstacles they will have during our time together. Information that is considered to be most helpful is opening multiple tabs, browsing the internet, creating word documents and files and how to look (and) show their families pictures."

Brandon remembers ordering merchandise for her store via fax, and when companies like Peavey started requiring merchants to order through their website. Along the way she has become comfortable with technology and paying bills online, but she knows not everyone is.

Last year learned to use my hot spot on my phone, she said. Now if I'm somewhere that doesn't have internet, if my iPad it doesn't connect automatically, I use my hot spot off my phone.

Clinton High School junior Jake Kalmer realizes that technology is more natural to his age group than his grandparents'.

I make YouTube videos and edit on my phone, using video software, and that is completely unknown to my grandparents, Jake said. I used to have to be in position to teach my step-grandpa how to do things on his phone, just kind of setting up the phone, that's a big one. They don't know how to do that, and they would need somebody to show them.

'You can't just shut it off'

Jake uses his phone for so many things, and is not afraid to try new things and play with it, while they are less confident, he said. He can show them how to change settings in one app, but they don't know how to apply that skill in a different app.

I feel like they just get the one thing I'm showing them, he said. They need to be able to branch out from that, and they need help with that (branching out), obviously.

LSA High School junior Michael Disney has helped his older relatives navigate new technology, too, and said he thinks young people's brains are just more adaptable to learning something new.

"When you're young, your mind is still in the process of developing," he said. "(Technology) just became part of the things that you learn growing up."

What's that pipe along the road in South Shores? Residents and commuters should be aware of a new sewer line project that will repair sewer pipes and enhance waste water flow in Decatur and Mount Zion.

Brandon has learned to be comfortable with technology by now and it has opened up some opportunities she didn't have before. She reconnected with an old friend over social media. And she said she hasn't written a check to pay a bill for a long time; it's all automatically deducted from her account.

Adults have to learn to operate phones and computers, but it's as if kids are just born knowing how to use technology, Brandon said.

My granddaughter, when she was 2 or 3 years old, her mom would let her play some of these learning games and one day she was all done, went in the room and she said, 'I'm done, I shut it off,' and her mom said, 'You can't just shut it off. You have to walk through different processes,' and she said, 'I know, Mom,' and (the mom) said, 'How do you know that?' And she walked Angie through every process, Brandon said, laughing.

Contact Valerie Wells at (217) 421-7982. Follow her on Twitter: @modgirlreporter

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CHICAGO  A North Carolina man who moved to Chicago was one of the victims of John Wayne Gacy, who was convicted of killing 33 young men and boys in the 1970s, authorities said Monday.

Francis Wayne Alexander would have been 21 or 22 years old when Gacy killed him sometime between early 1976 and early 1977, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said at a news conference in announcing the identification of Alexander's remains.

In a statement, Alexanders sister, Carolyn Sanders, thanked the sheriffs office for giving the family some level of closure.

It is hard, even 45 years later, to know the fate of our beloved Wayne, Sanders wrote. He was killed at the hands of a vile and evil man. Our hearts are heavy, and our sympathies go out to the other victims families. ... We can now lay to rest what happened and move forward by honoring Wayne.

Alexanders remains were among 26 sets that police found in the crawl space under Gacy's home just outside the city. Three victims, meanwhile, were found buried on Gacy's property and four others whom Gacy admitted killing were found in waterways south of Chicago.

In 2011, Dart's office exhumed the remains of eight victims, including Alexander, who had been buried without police knowing who they were. Dart called on anyone who had a male relative disappear in the Chicago area in the 1970s to submit DNA. That was the time when Gacy was luring young men and boys to his home to eventually kill them.

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Within weeks, the sheriff's office announced that it had identified one set of remains as those of William Bundy, a 19-year-old construction worker.

In 2017, the office identified a second set as those of 16-year-old Jimmy Haakenson, who disappeared after he phoned his mother in Minnesota and told her that he was in Chicago.

The details of Alexanders life in Chicago are sketchy. Born in North Carolina, he moved to New York and then on to Chicago, where he was married for approximately three months before he was divorced in 1975.

According to the sheriffs offices news release, the last known record of Alexanders life was a traffic ticket he received in Chicago in January of 1976  a year in which he earned little money. How he crossed paths with one of the most notorious serial killers in American history is a mystery, as authorities say all they know is that Alexander lived in an area that was frequented by Gacy and where other identified victims had previously lived."

The identification of Alexander came together when the sheriff's department teamed up with a nonprofit called the DNA Doe Project, which uses genetic information to locate relatives of dead people who have not been identified. The organization compared the DNA profile from the unidentified victim's remains to profiles on a genealogy website to find potential relatives. That led it to Alexander's family, and Alexander's mother and half-brother provided their DNA for comparison.

Between the genetic testing, financial records, post-mortem reports and other information, investigators were able to confirm that the remains were Alexander's.

The submission of DNA from people who suspected Gacy might have killed their loved ones has helped police solve at least 11 cold cases of homicides that had nothing to do with Gacy, who was executed in 1994. It has also helped families find loved ones who while missing, were alive, including a man in Oregon who had no idea his family was looking for him.

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Negotiations between Illinois largest public employee union and Gov. J.B. Pritzkers administration will resume through an outside arbitrator after the two sides couldnt come to terms on an order requiring workers at congregate care facilities to either get vaccinated against COVID-19 or be tested regularly, Pritzkers office said Monday.

The impasse affects more than 10,000 employees who work in state prisons and juvenile justice facilities and are represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31. An independent arbitrator has been brought in to decide on labor issues stemming from Pritzkers mandate.

Pritzker has twice extended the deadline for state workers at congregate facilities to be fully vaccinated since issuing his order in early August, most recently pushing it back to Nov. 30  nearly two months after the original target.

AFSCME, which hasnt previously responded to requests for comment on negotiations over the vaccine mandate, on Monday said in a statement that it has secured paid time off for employees who contract the virus, must quarantine due to exposure, or have to care for a dependent who is sick or quarantined, as well as an added personal day off for employees who are fully vaccinated.

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Pritkzers administration said Monday it has reached an agreement on the vaccine order with about 7,800 workers represented by AFSCME who work in the states Department of Human Services and in Veterans Affairs.

With those agreements, almost 10,000 state employees who work in congregate facilities are now in line with Pritzkers vaccination order, the governors office said.

Our most vulnerable residents, such as those veterans who cant live . . . on their own and adults living with developmental disabilities, have no choice but to live among workers at these facilities, Pritzker said Monday during a news conference on pediatric coronavirus vaccinations. They deserve the safest possible homes that we can provide, and that includes the protection of a vaccinated community. It is the most effective infection control measure that we have.

During last years massive fall surge, Pritzker came under fire for his administrations handling of a coronavirus outbreak at the state-run veterans home in LaSalle County that killed 36 residents. Those deaths came before vaccines were widely available.

Pritzker on Friday issued an executive order requiring workers in state-licensed day care centers to be vaccinated or undergo weekly testing. The state estimated the order applies to about 55,000 workers at nearly 2,900 day care centers licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

The Dec. 3 deadline for day care workers to get their first shot is followed by a requirement that they get their second dose of the two-shot Pfizer or Moderna vaccines by Jan. 3. Any worker who is not fully vaccinated  having received both doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or a single dose of Johnson & Johnsons vaccine  by Dec. 3 will have to undergo weekly testing.

Pritzker has continued to face pushback from the Legislatures Republican minority, who criticize the Democratic governor for acting unilaterally in response to the pandemic. A group of Republican women in the state Senate last week called the vaccine mandate for day care workers an attack on working mothers as they resume a more normal work schedule.

While hospital systems in the state have seen hundreds of workers quit over vaccine requirements, which in many cases are stricter than Pritzkers order, hospitals say the overwhelming majority of employees complied.

A federal judge has scheduled a Tuesday hearing on a request for a temporary restraining order blocking Pritzkers vaccine mandate for health care workers, along with Chicagos mandate for city workers.

Dan Petrella reported from Chicago.
BLOOMINGTON  Two months after 25-year-old Jelani Day was reported missing, authorities said Monday he died by drowning.

After consideration of the currently known circumstances surrounding his death, based upon review of the extensive available investigation, medical and dental information, and after postmortem examination with multiple ancillary and special studies, the cause of death of this positively identified 25-year-old male, Jelani Jesse Javonte Day, is drowning, LaSalle County Coroner Richard Ploch wrote as the cause of death opinion released Monday, which is part of the forensic autopsy report for this case.

Day, a Danville native and graduate student at Illinois State University, was reported missing from Bloomington on Aug. 25. His body was found Sept. 4 in the Illinois River near Peru and identified Sept. 23. Law enforcement agencies had said the cause of death was pending further investigation and toxicology results.

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Toxicology results were released Oct. 13 but did not denote cause of death.

Unfortunately, there is no specific positive test at autopsy for drowning, Ploch wrote. Although the examination was suboptimal based upon the degree of decomposition and predation activity while the body was within the river during a period of warm water, there was no evidence of antemortem injury, such as manual strangulation, an assault or altercation, sharp, blunt or gunshot injury, infection, tumor, natural disease, congenital abnormality, or significant drug intoxication.

The manner in which Mr. Day went into the Illinois River is currently unknown.

Ploch said the coroner's office will make no further statements "out of respect for the family and the continuing investigation."

The family's attorney was not immediately available for comment Monday evening.

Days disappearance and death has gained national attention and his family has spent the last several weeks mounting efforts to bring FBI investigators to the lead on his case.

Peru police Chief Robert Pyszka told The Pantagraph he had requested the FBI take the lead on the investigation.

The FBI is assisting on this case, but will not take over the lead of this investigation. They will assist us in any possible way they can, but they will not take over the lead in this case, he said. The family numerous times asked us to pass this investigation off, and we have attempted to do such.

Days family will be joined by the Rev. Jesse Jackson and the Rainbow PUSH Coalition on Tuesday for a march from the Peru Police Department to Illinois YMCA, near the location where his car was found on Aug. 26.

A multi-jurisdictional task force including the Illinois State Police, the Bloomington and Peru police departments, LaSalle County Sheriffs Office, and the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit continue to investigate Days death.

Contact Kelsey Watznauer at (309) 820-3254. Follow her on Twitter: @kwatznauer.

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Its not exactly Sophies Choice, but its still painful for Democrats. Their big spending bill includes three programs for children: a subsidy for child care, monthly checks to parents and a paid family leave program. But they need the vote of Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and he says they can have only one of the three. They should go with the checks.

Each idea has its advocates, as a New York Times survey of experts in family policy demonstrated. Deciding among them requires picking which of multiple goals is most important.

The Times quoted a sociologist who argued that paid leave was necessary for changing gender norms both at work and at home. Another sociologist backed making child care cheaper for parents because it would likely pull more women in the workforce.

Sending checks to parents, as the proposal to expand the tax credit for children would do, does not directly advance those objectives. Families could use the extra money to allow new mothers to take a few months off from paid employment with an eye toward resuming it. Fathers, too, for that matter.

But families with mothers who work for money only part-time, or not at all, would also get the checks. They might even use the money to help finance a reduction in paid work.

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That flexibility ought to be considered one of the tax credits virtues. Families vary in their needs and desires. We generally, and rightly, leave it to parents to make judgments about whats best for their children.

If a policy aims to send resources to help families with children, then why not give them the money and let them do what they want with it? The federal government should not put its thumb on the scale to encourage more mothers to stay at home or to earn an income.

Some readers, especially those of a libertarian bent, would go further and say that the government should be neutral between households with and without children  and not transfer resources from the childless to parents in the first place.

There is also a more technical economic argument for helping two-income families that need to pay for child care. Since we tax peoples pay, we should give tax breaks for incurring the costs associated with paid work. Thats not a special favor for two-income families, the argument continues. The only reason we dont give a corresponding tax break to couples with a stay-at-home parent is that were not taxing the second parents work in the first place.

Both the principled objection to helping parents at all and the technical case for helping two-earners in particular are, however, blinkered. Aid to parents is not, in the first place, a way of favoring them over non-parents: Its a way of helping children. Some households dont have children, yes, but all future households are run by former children. Governments need not be indifferent to the welfare and even the existence of future citizens.

We also have a large implicit tax on parents, and especially on parents of large families. As Ive argued elsewhere, one hidden effect of the federal governments programs for the elderly is to transfer resources from large families to small ones.

Giving money to parents based on how many children they are raising, and without regard to how they divide paid and unpaid work, offsets an existing bias in federal policy against children without creating any new one among different households with children. So thats what pro-family legislation should do.

Picking the child credit and dropping the other proposals would begin to address Senator Manchins conditions. But he has others. He thinks that households that receive the credit should have to work. (Presumably, he means at least one parent in each household.)

The way forward for Democrats on this piece of their spending bill, then, ought to be clear: Stick with the child credit, include a work requirement  and get Manchins sign-off.

Ramesh Ponnuru is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist.

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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn.  Ballad Health has invested $10 million to create the Appalachian Highlands Center for Nursing Advancement at East Tennessee State University, the health system announced Monday.

As the pandemic continues to exacerbate the national nurse shortage, the partnership seeks to provide a long-term solution to bolster the nursing supply and support, according to a Ballad news release.

The center will be dedicated to bringing nursing, business, liberal arts, education and other academic and support programs together to increase the pipeline of opportunity and augment the supply of nurses and nursing support in the region, the release states.

The center will develop partnerships with other colleges and universities, such as Emory & Henry College, Northeast State Community College and the University of Virginias College at Wise, among others, to advance the clinical practice of nursing, enhance interprofessional collaboration, contribute to knowledge about nursing workflow and generate nursing scholarship, according to the release.

Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the nation faced a shortage of nurses. Combining this with the recent historically high number of hospitalized patients creates stress for practicing nurses, leading to burnout and higher turnover rates, Ballad officials said.
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In the statement, Eads noted there have been conversations between the two cities and that Bristol Tennessee City Council members and Sorah have regularly attended and spoken during public meetings regarding the landfill.

The city of Bristol, Virginia has discussed the landfill issues since January 2021 in council meetings, with the media, privately with concerned citizens and at city sponsored meetings prior to council meetings. Bristol, Virginia has never denied a discussion with any person who wants information about the landfill, Eads wrote in the statement. The city of Bristol Virginia welcomes the opportunity to discuss the landfill, in detail, with members of the Bristol Tennessee City Council if they so desire. Otherwise, we will be prepared for any litigation that arises with Bristol Tennessee.

Bristol, Tennessees meeting will occur in the conference room of the Easley municipal annex.

Bristol Virginia City Council convenes a regular bimonthly meeting at 6 p.m., which includes a vote to award a contract to SCS Field Services for the next phase of the landfill gas project, which includes connecting new gas wells recently drilled at the landfill and installation of 21 pumps to remove water.
The Environmental Protection Agency is again monitoring the Twin Citys air but, as before, hasnt recorded any readings of concern, on-scene coordinator Myles Bartos said Monday.

The EPA returned last week and expects to remain through this week monitoring air quality in response to public complaints about offensive odors from the Bristol, Virginia landfill. The EPA collected six weeks of readings in June and July, documenting the presence of some chemicals, but not in high concentrations or exceeding any thresholds for safety, according to its previous report.

Bristol councils to mull different landfill actions The Twin Citys two city councils have different agendas when they meet today, but both will focus on the odor problems at the Bristol, Virginia landfill.

We are continuing an evaluation, looking at the air in the residential neighborhoods of Bristol, Virginia and Tennessee to see what is in the air, if there are hazardous constituents that may be at levels of a public health concern, Bartos told the Bristol Herald Courier on Monday.

Asked about preliminary findings, Bartos said there have been no surprises.
And while Democrats are more likely than Republicans to say climate change is happening, majorities of both parties agree that it is. That breaks down to 89% of Democrats and and 57% of Republicans.

The poll also gauged Americans' willingness to pay for the cost of cutting climate-wrecking pollution as well as mitigating its consequences.

Fifty-two percent said they would support a $1 a month carbon fee on their energy bill to fight climate change, but support dwindles as the fee increases.

I would say, like 5, 10 dollars, as long as it's really being used for what it should be, said Krystal Chivington, a 46-year-old Republican in Delaware who credits her 17-year-old daughter for reviving her own passion for fighting climate change and pollution.

It's not ordinary consumers who should bear the brunt of paying to stave off the worst scenarios of climate change, said Mark Sembach, a 59-year-old Montana Democrat who works in environmental remediation.

"I think it needs to fall a great deal on responsible corporations thats  and unfortunately ... most corporations arent responsible," Sembach said. And I think there needs to be a lot of pushback as to who ultimately pays for that.



The AP-NORC poll of 5,468 adults was conducted Sept. 8-24 using a combined sample of interviews from NORCs probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population, and interviews from opt-in online panels. The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 1.7 percentage points. The AmeriSpeak panel is recruited randomly using address-based sampling methods, and respondents later were interviewed online or by phone.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
In August alone, 208,887 illegal immigrants were apprehended. That number was 317% higher than in the same month last year. That month was the second straight with more than 200,000 apprehensions.

Further, there are not necessarily consequences for breaking our laws thanks to the Biden Administrations catch and release policies. Illegal immigrants are most often released after apprehension and told to appear for a hearing in the future, sometimes years later. Predictably, many do not show up.

Because our Border Patrol agents are dealing with the tens of thousands who submit to arrest voluntarily in order to be caught and released, the really bad actors involved in human trafficking, drug smuggling or crossing the border again after being deported for committing crimes find it easier to infiltrate the country.

In an insult to law-abiding American citizens, the Biden Administration does not even require COVID-19 testing for illegal immigrants before they are released into our country. This stands in sharp contrast to the vaccine mandates it intends to impose on Americans and the requirements that legal travelers show proof of vaccination. This double standard is an injustice to the people the Biden Administration is obligated to serve, as well as a threat to the health of the migrants themselves and the communities into which they are released.
" " Shays' Rebellion pit farmers against tax collectors in the hills of Western Massachusetts just after the Revolutionary War. Wikimedia/(CC BY-SA 4.0)

In the late months of 1786, only a few years after the spanking-new United States won its independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain with a victory in the Revolutionary War, another battle erupted in the hills of Western Massachusetts. This one was a homegrown uprising, loosely led by a farmer and war veteran who, along with thousands of others, quickly had tired of the unforgiving and heavy-handed state government in Boston.

Daniel Shays was the reluctant leader of the insurrection that came to bear his name. He is recognized today as every bit the New England patriot that Paul Revere or John Hancock was.

And Shays' Rebellion is remembered as a critical (if not entirely successful) touchstone in the formation of America's current system of government.

"One of the things about historical events is that you [usually] have a place where an important event takes place. Shays' Rebellion doesn't necessarily have that focal point that we associate with others, so it maybe makes it a little harder," says Massachusetts Historical Society librarian Peter Drummey.

"But it's certainly very hard to think about the founding of the United States under the federal Constitution without thinking of this as something of substantial concern; people really got behind the idea of reforming this revolutionary confederation into a new federal government."

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How Shays' Rebellion Began

After the Revolutionary War, Massachusetts (like many other states) was in a huge financial hole. The war was expensive. The rich people that ran the state needed to make some of that money back. So they did something that governments often do: tax their citizens. Heavily.

That didn't go over well in rural Western Massachusetts, where subsistence farming was the way of life, and bartering for goods and services was common. Tax collectors from the big city weren't about to take chickens for payment, and so showdowns between the government and farmers soon broke out.

Land was seized. Farmers were jailed. Protests were waged. Petitions were thrown about and ignored. Farmers and their families sometimes physically kept tax collectors from their appointed rounds. And then, late in 1786, angry protesters who called themselves Regulators shut down courthouses that they felt weren't sympathetic to their plight.

When the state responded with government-backed militia, tensions ratcheted up, quickly.

The situation became a mirror of the Revolutionary War. It was a revolt against a tax-happy distant government, one in which the people felt they weren't properly represented.

"They were seeing the same things play out," Drummey says. "This was about taxation without effective representation, and the other thing was, it was just very, very severe taxation relative to the income you have as a small farmer in the interior of New England. So many of the people who participated in this were former soldiers, people who had fought in the American Revolution, and now found themselves taking up arms against their state government, not a long time thereafter. It's very striking."

Into this fray (and sometimes in the middle of it) was Shays. His experience fighting in the war elevated him in the eyes of his fellow rebels, though he insisted he was not their leader. Like many, he felt his only way of living would be in danger if he didn't fight back.

Eventually, the Regulators  who came to be known as Shaysites  plotted to overthrow the unyielding state government. Their big plan was to seize weapons at the federal armory in the western Massachusetts town of Springfield, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) west of Boston.

The rebels tried to take the armory, in late January 1787, though Shays first looked for a way out in a letter to Continental Army General Benjamin Lincoln, who was hot on his trail. From the letter:

[U]nwilling to be any way accessary to the Shedding of Blood and Greatly Desirous of Restoring Peace and Harmony to this Convulsed Commonwealth We Propose that all the troops on the Part of Government, be Disbanded immediately, and that all and Every Person who has been acting or any way Aiding or Assisting in any of the Late Risings of the People May be Indemnified in their Persons and Properties untill the Seting of the Next General Court ...

A local militia, anticipating the rebels' strategy, already controlled the armory and quickly repelled the disjointed Shaysites. A few of the rebels were killed and wounded. Many more fled. The 3,000-strong government force led by Lincoln, made up of troops from Eastern Massachusetts, soon gave chase to the retreating Shaysites and, through brutal New England winter weather, routed the rest of Shays' men, capturing them or chasing them into neighboring states

By the end of February, Shays' Rebellion was quashed.

" " This pillar of marble along the Appalachian Trail marks the last battle of Shays' Rebellion, Feb. 27, 1787. Wikimedia/(CC BY-SA 4.0)

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The Fallout and What Came Next

Some 4,000 rebels confessed to a role in the insurrection in exchange for amnesty. Many others were tried, convicted and then pardoned under the more-lenient new governor of Massachusetts, John Hancock.

Two men were hanged for their part in the uprising, but Shays escaped, was pardoned and eventually settled into obscurity on a farm in New York.

The rebellion, though, was at least partially successful in one important way.

In the months during which the Shaysites were fighting and later scattering, Massachusetts and the rest of the states were engaging in another wider political debate on the very structure of the new United States. It was a debate between the federalists, who favored a stronger national government and believed that the Articles of Confederation were too weak for the new country, and the anti-federalists, who did not.

Famously during the rebellion, the retired general George Washington fretted that no mechanism existed in the country to protect Massachusetts if its government was facing overthrow.

Later in 1787 the states would meet in Philadelphia to draw up the U.S. Constitution, whose preamble "provides for the common defence" and which grants the federal government, in Section 8, "Power To lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Debts and provide for the common Defence and general Welfare of the United States."

Two years later, Washington would be elected the country's first president.

Historians still debate the exact role that Shays' Rebellion played in the forming of the Constitution. But the grassroots agrarian uprising, as it's often described, against a powerful government is still a source of pride in large swaths of Massachusetts. Especially outside of Boston.

"I lived out in Western Massachusetts for a while," Drummey says, "and I thought that people in the western part of the state of Massachusetts have never, in some respect, gotten over Shays' Rebellion."

NOW THAT'S INTERESTING A worn pillar of marble along the Appalachian Trail in Sheffield, Massachusetts, marks the last and perhaps bloodiest battle of Shays' Rebellion, where brigadier John Ashley and his troops overcame the retreating Shaysites Feb. 27, 1787.
The information below has been supplied by dairy marketers and other industry organizations. It has not been edited, verified or endorsed by Hoards Dairyman.



The Dairy Ambassador Programs are educational and leadership opportunities for those who are passionate about dairy. Dairy Ambassadors will have the opportunity to connect with consumers and share dairys story while networking with their peers and industry professionals. The Dairy Ambassador Program for college students (enrolled full-time in a Nebraska post-secondary school) remains a strong part of the program. Additionally, Nebraska is excited to announce the addition of the Junior Dairy Ambassadors as a new opportunity for high school junior (11th grade) and senior (12th grade) students.

Dairy Ambassadors will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, including interacting with consumers at regional events, state fair, youth educational presentations and attend dairy industry meetings. Junior Dairy Ambassadors will also connect with consumers and peers to share dairy's story with their focus will be more on their local communities. The program is designed to shape future dairy champions who will promote the dairy community and support Midwest Dairys mission to give consumers an excellent dairy experience.

Education is a cornerstone of our industry and is an important piece of mission to enrich the education of our future leaders and ultimately, our entire dairy industry, says Tracy J. Behnken, Farmer Relations and Communications Manager. Our Dairy Ambassador program has been very effective in encouraging growth, innovation and excellence in our industry and were looking forward to reviewing the applications of the many bright, young college, and now high school, students across our state.



To be considered for the Dairy Ambassador Program, applicants must be enrolled in a Nebraska post-secondary school yet do not have to be majoring in agriculture or raised on a dairy farm. Applicants for the Junior Ambassador Program must be enrolled in a Nebraska High School as a Junior (11th grade) or Senior (12th grade). All applicants must be able to communicate effectively through writing and speaking and possess a passion for dairy. Ambassadors of both programs are expected to serve an 11-month term, starting January 10, 2022 and ending November 30, 2022. During their service, ambassadors will receive per diems and have approved expenses covered upon participation. After successful completion of the one-year program, Dairy Ambassadors are eligible to apply for a $1,000 scholarship while the Junior Dairy Ambassadors are eligible to apply for a $500 scholarship.



Students can apply at www.MidwestDairy.com, in the For Young Dairy Leaders tab/section, under Ambassador Programs then select Nebraska. More details can be found on the webpage plus the online application will be at the bottom of each program page. Be sure to select state as Nebraska for the Dairy Ambassadors and Nebraska-JUNIOR for the Junior Dairy Ambassador applications. Online applications are due DECEMBER 1, 2021 . Selected ambassadors will be notified by JANUARY 10, 2022.

If you have questions, please contact Tracy J. Behnken at tbehnken@midwestdairy.com or 531-207-4291.
The Inspace XR team with founder and CEO, Justin Liang second from right.

Real-estate virtual reality startup, Inspace has raised $4 million to support its international expansion to the US and UK.

The service, based at ACS Harbour City Labs, is aimed at Architects, civil engineers and property owners with an annual subscription allowing users to create as many VR experiences as they need.

Inspaces investment round comes after the service saw an upswing in virtual services in the wake of the Covid lockdowns which saw the business subscriber base grow by 1300% over the past year.

Siobhan Casey, ACS Director of Scaleups and Innovation Labs congratulated the company on the investment, saying Inspace joined Harbour City Labs in 2019 with only two desks, to help scale their business and it is great to see the successful close of their pre-series A of $4m, 20 months after joining now boasting 20 employees.

Andrew Corbett-Jones, Head of Growth at Harbour City Labs and the ACS Labs team are passionate about creating sustainable tech businesses to tech savvy founders.

Inspace founder and CEO, Justin Liang said From Day One we had the vision to host the digital replica of every commercial building in the world and Covid has materially accelerated the adoption of our thesis in the industry.

Were focused on helping our real estate customers navigate the Covid-enforced shift from physical inspections to digital walkthroughs.

Inspace moved into ACS Harbour City Labs in 2019 after a stint at The Studio in the Sydney Startup Hub.

The company raised the funds in a Pre-Series A round led by Our Innovation Fund (OIF). The capital raising also included participation from Aconexs Leigh Jasper, Investible and Artesian. As part of the round, OIF Partner Geoff Levy AO will join Inspaces Board of Directors. Geoff was previously the Chairman of Cromwell Property Group and a Director of Mirvac.

Inspaces existing customers include Dexus, Mirvac, JLL, CBRE, Blackstone, Brookfield, ESR and Lendlease. The service claims its Stack platform has enabled over $1 billion in real estate deals in the past month.

The capital raise enables Inspace to build on the rapid growth in adoption of its Stack virtual property visualisation platform in Asia-Pacific markets, including Australia, Singapore and Japan. It also allows the company to help property firms worldwide to complete sales and leasing deals despite Covid-related travel restrictions.

Laurence Schwartz, Partner at OIF comments, Justin is an exceptional founder building a world class team, product and company in an industry that is going through massive digitisation.

Inspace is being used by leading real estate companies  Dexus, Mirvac, JLL, CBRE, among many others  and we believe our deep software background and experience in PropTech, as well as scaling businesses from Australia to the US will be very value-adding on Inspaces journey ahead. As engagement with physical real estate becomes more digital, Inspace will be leading the way and were very proud to be partnering with Justin and the team to achieve this globally.

We have strong interest from the US market and our customers are taking us global. In twelve months wed like to have a strong presence in the US and UK markets and host the portfolios of the largest real estate companies on our platform, said Justin.

Australia has an incredible property and technology reputation globally and we want to build on that and build a business we can all be incredibly proud of.
Can vodka be made from honey? Does brandy have to involve fruit? Is bourbon only made in the American south?

From aquavit to vodka, alcoholic beverages can be broken down into categories based on distillation and fermentation. The magic comes in their processes and ingredients, and each spirit is completely unique. This glossary explains the primary characteristics of the most popular spirits to help you become a mixology maven.

Vodka  For years, the U.S. governments Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau defined vodka as neutral, with no odor, taste or color. And because distillers are required to start with pure, near-flavorless alcohol at 190 proof, vodka can begin its life as many things. A common base is grain, like wheat, but vodka can derive from potatoes, corn, grapes or honey.

In 2020, the U.S. dropped the flavorless requirement and now allows sugar and citric acid, though the proof requirement stands and theres still no aging. Producers like Richard Patrick at Cathead Distillery hope this means an evolution of different, more flavorful vodkas that express what theyre made of.

Gin  Start with vodka, add botanicals. The word gin comes from genever, a Dutch word that means juniper. Thats the only botanical gin must have in order to be called gin, though most have many more.

Juniper flavors are often interpreted as tasting piney, green, waxy or herbaceous. Other common botanicals include citrus peel, coriander, cardamom, black pepper and sage, as well as more esoteric angelica root and orris root. London dry gins often have a bright, citrus flavor. Older styles, like genever or Plymouth gin, can add robust or spice flavors to a cocktail.

Brandy  Brandy is made from the juice of grapes, ripe berries and tree fruit like plums, pears and apples. Its roots are in Europe, where the French famously produce cognac and Armagnac as well as Calvados, an apple brandy.

Pisco, made in Peru and Chile, is a brandy. Eau de vie is brandy that has not been aged in barrels, which give the spirit flavor and color. Schnapps in Europe often refers to a brandy, though in the U.S. its usually a fruit liqueur.

Rum  Sugar, either in the form of molasses or sugar cane juice, is necessary to make rum, so its strongly associated with the Caribbean. According to Meehans Bartenders Manual by Jim Meehan, the color of rum tells you little about its age: caramel coloring is often added to young gold rums as well as mature rums, he says, while the inky color and bold character of molasses obscure age.

Variations of rum include rhum agricole, a funky, earthy style made directly from sugar cane instead of fermented molasses, and cachaca, which is made in Brazil and associated with the caipirinha cocktail.

Whiskey  Whiskey is made from corn, wheat, malted barley and/or rye, and is generally aged for at least two years to add its nuance of flavor. White whiskey is sometimes called moonshine. Many classic cocktails, including the mint julep, Sazerac, Old Fashioned and Manhattan, call for whiskey as their base.

Bourbon, made predominantly in the southern United States, must have a mash bill, or recipe, thats at least 51% corn. It is usually sweeter than rye whiskey, which must be at least 51% rye and has more spice flavors.

Japanese, Canadian and Scotch whiskies drop the e in their name. Each whisky has its own parameters for blending, but all must be aged in wooden barrels for at least three years.

Tequila  Made in Mexico from blue agave, tequila has three main types: blanco, unaged; reposado, aged two to 12 months; and anejo, aged at least a year in oak barrels. Tequila is technically mezcal, which is a broader category that encompasses all agave-based spirits. Order mezcal in a U.S. bar, though, and youll get a smoky, traditional Mexican spirit.

Other terms to know:

An aperitif is served before dinner to awaken the palate. A digestif comes after dinner to help digestion. There are no strict rules for either.

Sherry, vermouth, port and Madeira are fortified wines, meaning a distilled spirit is added to the wine. They can be sweet or dry and may be very complex. These are usually served as aperitifs or digestifs.

Aquavit, popular in Scandinavia, is a grain spirit flavored with spices such as caraway, anise, fennel, cardamom or dill.

Liqueurs are often made by macerating fruit, herbs, spices or coffee in a neutral grain spirit. They tend to be lower in alcohol and may be sweetened with sugar.

Sake is a brewed Japanese beverage made from rice, with an alcohol level similar to wine. Shochu in Japan and soju in Korea are both distilled, clear spirits made from rice, barley or sweet potatoes.
The executive order comes three days after the state's largest universities announced employees must get vaccinated because of the federal mandate.

However, Ivey's executive order would not impact those plans announced by the University of Alabama System and Auburn University to require employees to be vaccinated for COVID-19 by Dec. 8. The universities were created by the Alabama Constitution and are under the management and control of a board of trustees.

The schools said the Alabama campuses in Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Huntsville and Auburn all are federal contractors, so they have to comply with an executive order signed last month by President Joe Biden.

Ryan Easterling, a spokesperson for the Alabama Department of Public Health said that agency is still investigating how it is affected by the federal mandate, but wrote in an email that, we intend to comply with (the) Governor's order.

Biden in September ordered sweeping new federal vaccine requirements for as many as 100 million Americans.
Alla vigilia delludienza contro la decisione di un tribunale del Regno Unito di non estradare Julian Assange negli Usa, la segretaria generale di Amnesty International, Agnes Callamard, ha chiesto alle autorita statunitensi di annullare le accuse nei confronti dellimputato e alle autorita britanniche di non estradarlo e scarcerarlo immediatamente.

Callamard ha reiterato queste richieste dopo che unindagine di Yahoo News ha rivelato che i servizi statunitensi avevano valutato di rapire o uccidere Assange mentre si trovava allinterno dellambasciata dellEcuador di Londra. Queste rivelazioni indeboliscono ancora di piu le gia inaffidabili assicurazioni diplomatiche fornite dagli Usa che, se estradato, Assange non sarebbe posto in condizioni equivalenti a maltrattamento.

"Le assicurazioni che il governo Usa non porrebbe Assange in una prigione di massima sicurezza ne lo sottoporrebbe alle Misure amministrative speciali, sono state contraddette dallammissione, sempre da parte degli Usa, che queste garanzie potrebbero venir meno -ha dichiarato Callamard- Il fatto che la Cia abbia preso in considerazione di rapire o uccidere Assange solleva ancora maggiori dubbi sulla credibilita delle promesse statunitensi e mette ulteriormente in evidenza le motivazioni politiche che si celano dietro questa vicenda".

"A quasi 20 anni di distanza -ricorda Callamard- nessuna delle persone sospettate di crimini di guerra commessi dagli Usa nelle guerre dellAfghanistan e dellIraq e stata incriminata, ne tantomeno condannata, mentre colui che ha rivelato tali crimini rischia di trascorrere il resto della sua vita in carcere".

Nelle udienze di domani e dopodomani, 27 e del 28 ottobre, si dovranno esaminare le cinque motivazioni su cui si basa lappello presentato dagli Usa contro la decisione presa a gennaio -da una corte di grado inferiore - di non estradare Assange. Soprattutto, dovra giudicare la credibilita delle assicurazioni fornite dagli Usa sul trattamento applicato ai prigioniero Assange, che Amnesty International giudica inaffidabili.

Continua a leggere

L'America accusa il fondatore di Wikileaks di aver cospirato, insieme allanalista delle forze armate Chelsea Manning, per ottenere illegalmente informazioni riservate. Ai sensi dellAtto sullo spionaggio e dellAtto sulle frodi informatiche, rischia fino a 175 anni di carcere.

Lincriminazione di Assange costituisce una grave minaccia per la liberta di stampa, tanto negli Usa quanto altrove: il giornalista australiano ha svolto attivita professionali "proprie dellesperienza quotidiana del giornalismo investigativo".

Leventuale estradizione di Assange criminalizzerebbe comuni prassi giornalistiche e permetterebbe a quello degli Usa e ad altri governi di prendere di mira giornalisti e scrittori al di fuori delle loro giurisdizioni per aver denunciato le loro malefatte.

Lincessante caccia ad Assange da parte del governo degli Usa e evidentemente una misura punitiva, ma in gioco non e solo la sorte di una persona -ha concluso Callamard. In pericolo sono la liberta di stampa e despressione. Il giornalismo e leditoria dinvestigazione sono di fondamentale importanza per tenere sotto controllo e denunciare loperato dei governi e chiamare a rispondere chi viola i diritti umani. Per questo, lappello degli Usa va respinto, le accuse devono essere annullate e Assange devessere scarcerato".
A News Corp reporter has resorted to weasel words in a bid to again push the falsehood that the Chinese telecommunications equipment vendor Huawei Technologies is pulling out of Australia.

David Swan, the technology editor for The Australian, wrote: "It follows revelations that Huawei is effectively pulling out of Australia, with its local workforce down to just 145 from a peak of about 1200." [Emphasis mine].

The "It" referred to was a marketing push by Michael Dell, the owner of the computer firm of the same name, to advocate for OpenRAN, a technology that aims to be a substitute for the end-to-end 5G network equipment that is supplied by Huawei, ZTE, Ericsson and Nokia.

Swan quoted Dell as saying Australia was right to ban the use of Huawei gear because of security concerns. However, he did not provide any proof to back up this claim.

As to the OpenRAN coalition, Dr Henry Kressel, a pioneer of the modern semiconductor laser device that enables modern communications systems, hasany notion that it could produce anything in the short term to replace products from existing companies.

American economist David P. Goldman, writing under the pen name Spengler in the same publication, said it would take about five years for anything that could be tested to emerge. "...the debugging and testing of billions of lines of code probably would take another two years," he added.

Swan wrote there were "new claims the China tech giant poses a national security risk", but again did not say when these claims surfaced.

As iTWire pointed out, when another News Corp reporter, Jennifer Dudley-Nicholson, made similar absurd claims, the last time any allegations were levelled at Huawei was in September.

Those claims were made by Lithuanian officials  after a tiff with Beijing. According to The Guardian: "China demanded last month [August] that Lithuania withdraw its ambassador in Beijing and said it would recall its envoy to Vilnius, after Taiwan announced that its mission in Lithuania would be called the Taiwanese Representative Office."

Swan made a reference to an European defence agency  presumably the same Lithuanian claims  having said the Huawei P40 5G smartphone poses unspecified security risks, "including the potential for malware".

He forgot that every smartphone has the potential to be infected with malware. Or maybe it would not have served his argument had he mentioned it. Or maybe he is simply ignorant about it.

Swan said Huawei had "closed research labs and retrenched hundreds of employees after its revenue plunged following bans on its involvement in the countrys broadband and 5G networks".

All this is old hat and every time Huawei has made major staff cuts in Australia it has been nothing but open about it.

Swan also had the chutzpah to write: "Huawei was contacted for comment." But which company would react to a request for comment when the same falsehoods are repeated ad infinitum?
The Federal Government has proposed stricter rules for social media services, data brokers and other large online platforms operating in Australia.

The government has given industry first option to draft the code, failing which it will take on the task itself.

Attorney-General Michaelia Cash on Monday released an exposure draft of the Privacy Legislation Amendment (Enhancing Online Privacy and Other Measures) Bill 2021.

It would lead to creation of a binding Online Privacy code. Platforms covered by the code would need to have stronger protections for children on social media, and take all reasonable steps to verify their users' age.

The platforms will also have to put the child first when handling children's personal information. Parental consent will be required for users under the age of 16.

Also proposed are tougher penalties and enforcement powers to enable the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner to resolve matters more effectively.

"We know that Australians are wary about what personal information they give over to large tech companies," said Cash.

"We are ensuring their data and privacy will protected and handled with care. Our draft legislation means that these companies will be punished heavily if they don't meet that standard."

Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention David Coleman said: "In Australia, even before the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a consistent increase in signs of distress and mental ill-health among young people. While the reasons for this are varied and complex, we know that social media is part of the problem.

"Young people have told us this themselves. In a 2018 headspace survey of over 4000 young people aged 12 to 25, social media was nominated as the main reason youth mental health is getting worse. And the recent leak of Facebook's own internal research demonstrates the impact social media platforms can have on body image and the mental health of young people.

"That's why this legislation is so important. It will provide families with powerful protections, and require fundamental changes to the way that social media platforms operate in Australia."

Cash's department also also released a discussion paper as part of the broader review of the Privacy Act 1988 (Privacy Act).

Written submissions on the code can be sent in by 3 December while submissions to the discussion paper must be sent by 7 January 2022.
MATTOON  Each succeeding meeting of the Mattoon City Council is confronted with a new report of the finance committee with available finances for the remainder of the fiscal year. The current balance of cash on hand and possible anticipations in the fire fund is $2,609.01, against which there is a monthly drag of $1,375. That is income for less than two months while there are six months before the beginning of the next fiscal year in May 1922. The building and grounds fund has a balance of $1.07. There is little more than three months rations in the police fund. At each meeting, some member of the council insists the time has come to do something MATTOON  Any fine days in autumn are called Indian Summer by those who do not know when that season really comes. In reality, Indian Summer is in November. One of the best descriptions is given in the National Intelligencer of Nov. 26, 1857. It says pleasant weather usually occurring about the middle of November is called Indian Summer from the custom of the Indians using this delightful time for harvesting their crops. Tradition is the Indians had the custom to say they always had a second summer of nine days to get the crops in MATTOON  With the death of about 2,000 hogs from cholera in the west half of Coles County in the last 30 days, and an average of 100 new cases reported daily, the situation has assumed rather serious aspects, according to a local veterinarian. One prominent farmer near Mattoon is reported to have lost 60 hogs from a field of 75. The situation was allowed to reach its current serious proportions due to the failure of manufacturers of cholera serum to get their product on the market in sufficient quantities. It is now possible, however, local veterinarians to secure all the serum needed.
The head of Chicagos police union came to City Council chambers Monday and called on aldermen to take back from Mayor Lori Lightfoot the power to decide whether city workers should be required to report their vaccine status.

With Lightfoot looking on, local Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara told aldermen to stand up to the mayor.

It is not a queen on that throne, it is a mayor, said Catanzara, who has engaged in a public fight with the mayor over the mandate in recent weeks.

Aldermen introduced an ordinance calling for Lightfoots vaccine mandate to be voided and requiring City Council approval for all policies, rules and regulations governing discipline of city employees. Sixteen of the councils 50 aldermen had signed on as co-sponsors by 10:30 a.m.

Catanzara predicted Lightfoot officials will try to quash the ordinance, introduced by Southwest Side Ald. Silvana Tabares and Northwest Side Ald. Anthony Napolitano, but said the union hopes to force aldermen to take a roll call vote on it so we know who were going after in 2023, referring to the next city elections.

The city cannot be run by one dictator on the fifth floor anymore, Catanzara said.

After calling on City Council supporters of the ordinance to raise their hands, Catanzara said the union is taking a report card, and anybody who does not raise their hand, you will be challenged in 2023. We are coming for every one of your damn seats.

Aldermen in chambers, meanwhile, generally milled around in conversation with one another or sat there passively. Reporters did not see anyone raising their hand during Catanzaras remarks.

Also Monday, several dozen FOP protesters lined up outside City Hall to push against Lightfoots vaccine mandate for city workers and advocate for an ordinance that would give aldermen approval powers over future vaccine rules.

One counter protester walked among the FOP supporters while carrying a sign that said, Opposing vaccines? Support and protect, my ass. FOP backers responded by chanting, Screw your mandate!

And Southwest Side Ald. Ed Burke, 14th, introduced a resolution calling on the city to ensure that dependents of any city employees placed on no-pay status for failing to report their vaccine status do not lose health care benefits.

That resolution and the proposed ordinance to give aldermen power over the vaccine mandate were sent to the councils Rules Committee.

At least 21 Chicago police officers were placed on no-pay status last week for refusing to comply with the citys order. That requirement said all city employees had to submit their vaccination status by Oct. 15, and those who are unvaccinated can instead undergo regular COVID-19 testing for the rest of the year.

Almost 68% of more than 12,000 Chicago police employees have met the vaccination reporting requirement, Chicago police Superintendent David Brown said last week. He maintained many staffers are choosing to comply after speaking with higher-ups about how the mandate works.

The Chicago FOP has refused to cooperate, with Catanzara repeatedly urging members to disobey the city until a Cook County judge issued a temporary restraining order last week barring him from such public statements.

In a hearing Monday morning in Cook County Circuit Court, an attorney for the city, Michael Warner, reiterated that it wants to extend the restraining order against Catanzara, which is due to expire at midnight Monday night, and expand it to other FOP officials, who Warner said have been speaking out instead of Catanzara as a way of getting around the order.

FOP attorney Joel DAlba indicated he would not support such a measure. He again is seeking to transfer the case from Cecilia Horan to another judge.
PONTOON BEACH  A Metro East police officer has died after being shot Tuesday morning at a gas station in Madison County.

Pontoon Beach Officer Tyler Timmons died at Saint Louis University hospital of his injuries, said Trooper Jayme Bufford of the Illinois State Police.

The officer's body was transported to the St. Louis medical examiner's office in a long police procession Tuesday afternoon.

Timmons was shot about 7:50 a.m. Tuesday on the parking lot of a Speedway gas station, at Highway 111 and Chain of Rocks Road. As the officer walked toward a vehicle he suspected had been stolen, a man began firing, Bufford said.

State Police said a man was arrested on the scene immediately after the shooting. Police had not publicly identified the suspect.

The vehicle that apparently sparked the officer's interest was a stolen Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with Missouri license plates.

The injured officer was rushed to a hospital in Granite City with life-threatening injuries, then transferred to the St. Louis hospital, which specializes in the most critical cases. Officers from numerous departments were congregating outside in support.

Edwardsville police Chief Michael Fillback said some of his officers and other officers throughout the Metro East are filling in on patrol for Pontoon Beach officers now because their officers were so shaken by the shooting.

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EDWARDSVILLE  An Edwardsville man accused of killing his 6-month-old daughter by shaking her has been indicted by a Madison County grand jury.

Thomas R. Dellamano, 38, of Edwardsville, was indicted on two counts of first-degree murder, both Class M felonies.

According to court documents, on Sept. 28 Dellamano allegedly shook Clara Dellamano, who had turned 6 months old the day before. Emergency personnel were dispatched to the residence and the child was taken to a St. Louis area hospital where she died Oct. 4.

The separate charges each detail a different theory of the incident.

One states Dellamano shook the child "with the intent to kill or do great bodily harm" to the child. The other states he shook her "knowing such act created a strong probability of death or great bodily harm" to the infant.

Charges were originally filed Oct. 6 when his bond was set at $1 million. He faces 20-60 years in prison if convicted.

Two other people were indicted Oct. 21 on attempted murder charges in unrelated cases.

Steven Foster, 25, of Alton, faces multiple charges stemming from the alleged shooting of three people on Sept. 8 in the 700 block of Oakwood Estates.

He was indicted on three counts of attempted first-degree murder, three counts of aggravated battery with a firearm, and being an armed habitual criminal, all Class X felonies; aggravated discharge of a firearm, a Class 1 felony; and unlawful possession of weapons by a felon, a Class 3 felony.

He was also indicted for unlawful possession of weapons by a felon, an enhanced Class 2 non-probational felony. That charge stems from his alleged possession of a firearm at the time of his arrest on Oct. 5.

The original incident began at about 11:20 p.m. Sept. 8 when Alton Police responded to the 700 block of Oakwood Estates in reference to a shooting.

They found three adult gunshot victims who were taken to area hospitals then transferred to a St. Louis area hospital.

Foster was arrested by Alton police and U.S. Marshals a few days later in the 2200 block of Bostwick Street, Alton.

Bail in the shooting was set at $1 million, with an additional $75,000 for the weapons charge.

Also charged with unlawful possession of weapons by a felon in that incident was Montreal D. Holmes, 45, of Alton.

In an unrelated case, George Garcia, 18, of Granite City, was indicted for setting a fire with the intention of killing three occupants of a mobile home.

Garcia was indicted on three counts of attempted first degree murder, and aggravated arson, all Class X felonies. According to court documents and information from the Madison County Sheriff's Department, on Oct. 4 he allegedly barricaded two adults and one juvenile into a mobile home in Lakeshore Estates Mobile Home Park and set it on fire.

The three escaped with minor injuries.

Capt. Dave Vucich of the Madison County Sheriff's Department said Garcia had apparently been living there for several weeks.

"There were clear attempts to not allow them out of the residence, and attempts to barricade them into the residence," Vucich said.

The sheriff's department responded to a 911 call at about 9:33 p.m. Oct. 4. By the time deputies arrived the three victims had escaped the fire.

According to initial statements from witnesses and the victims the fire was intentionally set and the victims had been "barricaded in the residence."

Garcia was apprehended soon after the incident, with bail set at $750,000.

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With the backing of the legislatures Democratic majority, Illinois has been at the forefront of expanding abortion access in recent years, even enshrining a fundamental right to the procedure in state statute.

Legislative efforts backed by Gov. J.B. Pritzker to repeal a quarter-century-old Republican-sponsored law requiring parents to be notified when a minor seeks an abortion, however, have not been an easy sell. Even some Democrats question whether such a move goes too far in pitting abortion rights against parental rights.

The issue could be taken up this week when lawmakers return to Springfield for the second half of their fall session. But Democrats, who by and large supported legislation over the past four years to expand and protect access to abortion, are still working to line up votes to do away with the parental notification law.

Supporters are eager to affirm Illinois position as a bastion of abortion rights in light of a Texas law enacted earlier this year that essentially bans the procedure after six weeks of pregnancy and as the U.S. Supreme Court prepares to hear a Mississippi case later this year that could undermine the landmark 1973 decision in Roe v. Wade.

The Illinois parental notification law is a particularly challenging subject for politicians, as parental rights have become a flashpoint in fights over the governments role in implementing mask mandates and other restrictions in schools during the coronavirus pandemic.

Another complicating factor is that all 177 seats in the legislature will be up for election next year under new boundaries drawn during the once-a-decade redistricting process. That leaves some incumbents potentially wary of taking on a highly polarizing issue before having to court voters in unfamiliar territory, especially in suburban areas where Democrats have picked up seats from the GOP in recent elections.

Those in favor of the notification law believe parents shouldnt be kept in the dark about their childrens well-being, particularly when they make a decision to have an abortion. Those pushing for repeal believe the law does nothing to protect the most vulnerable young people  those who come from unsafe and unstable households.

Several Democratic lawmakers either declined to discuss the issue during the first half of the legislatures two-week fall session, didnt return calls seeking comment or said they were undecided on how theyd vote if the matter is taken up.

One undecided legislator was state Rep. Lawrence Walsh Jr., an Elwood Democrat who voted against the 2019 Reproductive Health Act, which codified into state law the fundamental right to an abortion. He questioned whether a vote to repeal parental notification was ready for consideration.

Im weighing the arguments, pro and con, said Walsh, a father of three, including an adult daughter. My district has reached out to me over the last three weeks. I have not heard from one proponent of the bill over the last three weeks. I have had numerous opponents, and at the end of the day, I honestly dont know if this bill is ready for prime time, if its ready to be called.

But proponents say now is the time for Illinois to take a stand.

We want to make it clear that were committed to protecting a womans right to reproductive health, said state Sen. Melinda Bush, a Grayslake Democrat who sponsored the 2019 law. And that includes young women who have been raped or sexually abused by a family member.

The repeal measure is expected to be taken up first in the Senate, where Bush said shes confident theres enough support among the Democratic supermajority to send it to the House.

I can tell you the votes are there in the Senate, she said. They have been there since the spring.

The Illinois Parental Notice of Abortion Act has been on the books since 1995, when Republicans controlled the governors office and both chambers of the General Assembly. It didnt go into effect, however, until 2013, when the state Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the law was constitutional after years of legal challenges.

Illinois is one of 38 states requiring some form of parental notification or consent. The law requires a parent or adult family member in the same household to be notified at least 48 hours in advance of a minor receiving a surgical or medication abortion. Parental permission is not required for an abortion to be performed.

The number of abortions has gone down in Illinois since the notification law was passed by state legislators. In 1995, 48,529 Illinois residents had abortions, 4,853 of whom were under 18, according to the state Department of Public Health. In 2018, 36,713 Illinois residents had abortions, of whom 1,092 were minors, statistics show.

Abortion rights groups have argued that keeping the law in place is harmful to teens who feel they cant turn to a parent for guidance after getting pregnant, especially in situations where that parent has been abusive in the past.

With the law in place, minors are allowed to go through so-called judicial bypass proceedings, closed-door hearings where pregnant teens appear before judges who will decide whether their parents need to be notified about them wanting an abortion.

Since 2013, judges granted more than 99.5 percent of bypass requests throughout Illinois, according to the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, which has argued the notification law serves no public policy purpose.

While the judicial proceedings usually allow those seeking them to get abortions without informing their parents, they can be emotionally trying, said Brigid Leahy, senior director of public policy for Planned Parenthood of Illinois.

You have to go in and be prepared to share some of your most personal information about a very personal decision with a complete stranger who is not necessarily trained in counseling or health care, Leahy said. Where you really should be is sitting down with a counselor, sitting down with a health care provider, and getting the information you need to be able to make the best decision that you can for yourself.

State Rep. Margaret Croke, a Chicago Democrat, said she supports the repeal and believes judicial bypass is a barrier for a woman to seek necessary health care.

Asked how a repeal could be a challenging vote for some Democratic colleagues, she acknowledged how difficult it could be for a parent to not think of their own child or not be involved in their medical decisions. But not every family is the same, she said.

Were talking about all of young women under the age of 18. So, you have think about it in a much more holistic way than your own family structure, said Croke, the mother of a young child. My son doesnt have any parental notification requirements if he were to get a young woman pregnant. So, this law is very much targeting young women and their bodies and their decisions.

Another Chicago Democrat who supports the repeal, state Rep. Will Guzzardi, is optimistic of its chances passing through the House, especially with the states track record for strengthening abortion rights.

Many of us in the caucus, myself included, are gravely concerned about the new law in Texas and the other abortion restrictions being proposed around the country, he said. We want Illinois to be (a) safe harbor for young people, both young people in Illinois and young people in states that are more repressive on these issues.

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But Republicans in the General Assembly stood firm in their opposition to the repeal. Several female members of the Senate GOP, the superminority in the legislature, insisted that the issue is not about abortion but preserving parental rights.

This issue goes beyond the typical pro-life versus pro-choice debate, state Sen. Sue Rezin, a Republican from Morris, said during a news conference this week at the state Capitol. Were way past just discussing our views on abortion. We are literally now discussing if a parent has a right to know about their childs pregnancy and abortion.

Repealing this law is a clear and deliberate act on parental rights, Rezin said.

She also said abortion rights advocates are making a false equivalence to the Texas law in their support for repealing parental notification because it has no bearing on what happens with Illinois law.

As mothers, we strongly believe its a parents right to be made aware of daughters health and their health care decisions, Rezin said. And we intend to stand up and fight any attempt to erode this right.

Republican Sen. Terri Bryant of Murphysboro noted that the 1995 parental notification law allows doctors to perform abortions on minors without having to notify their parents of the procedure if the minors show that they were victims of sexual abuse or neglect in their households.

This is yet another attack on the rights of Illinois parents at the hands of the majority party, Bryant said. Parental notification is in place because adolescents are not mentally or emotionally prepared to fully grasp or understand the consequences of these actions.

It isnt just Downstate Republican lawmakers who are defending the current law.

In heavily Democratic Chicago, a group of pastors from Latino, African American and other ethnic congregations is calling on lawmakers to keep parental notification in place, arguing that the rightful role of parents is to be involved in major decisions in their childrens lives. The group joins Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich and the bishops of the states five other Roman Catholic dioceses in opposing the repeal of parental notification.

The Rev. Jose Acevedo, pastor of Mount Zion Church in Portage Park, said during a news conference Thursday in the Belmont Cragin community that parents have a God-given right to be the ones that influence our children. Acevedo had a message for lawmakers considering repeal.

Youre not just messing with us; youre messing with God, Acevedo said. I need to let you know that you are one day going to be accountable to God for your actions.

The Rev. Daniel Matos, pastor of Agape Christian Church in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago, said religious leaders also are prepared to hold elected officials accountable at the ballot box.

We, the believers of Christ, not only pray, we vote, Matos said.

Like the GOP lawmakers, the pastors largely framed the argument as one about the rights of parents rather than abortion itself, though some present acknowledged that they oppose abortion in any instance, even in cases where a pregnancy results from sexual abuse.

For Bush, the Grayslake state senator, the fact that many of those who want to preserve the parental notification requirement oppose abortion regardless of the circumstances makes their arguments about parental rights ring hollow.

She pointed to a 2017 statement from the American Academy of Pediatrics that reaffirmed the medical organizations position that the rights of adolescents to confidential care when considering abortion should be protected.

While the majority of adolescents voluntarily involve at least one parent in their decisions about terminating a pregnancy, according to the group, legislation mandating parental involvement does not achieve the intended benefit of promoting family communication, and it increases the risk of harm to the adolescent by delaying access to appropriate medical care.

Bushs question to those arguing in favor of preserving parental notification is whether they are OK with a teen receiving an abortion after discussing the decision with a parent.

Theyre not, Bush said. They are never OK. They are never OK, not in cases of rape or incest. They are never OK with a young woman or any woman being able to make this decision.

Dan Petrella reported from Chicago. Tribune reporter Rick Pearson contributed from Springfield.

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Former Big Kmart in Clemmons gains new life as multi-tenant shopping center to be anchored by Aldi grocery store chain

Aldi confirmed in March it would take 25,260 square feet in the 94,841-square-foot building, dedicating about 12,000 square feet to retail space. The property has been renamed Clemmons Market.

The stores operating hours will be 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. For information about applying to work at Aldi, go to careers.aldi.us.

What local shoppers will notice is high-quality, fresh foods and low prices in every aisle of the store, every day, Krysta Cearly, Salisbury regional vice president for Aldi, said Monday.

The Aldi store in Clemmons features a curbside pickup lane and a critical access road circling the building.

Aldi operates more than 2,000 stores in 37 states. It claims to be on track to become the third-largest U.S. grocery retailer by store count by the end of 2022.

The former Big Kmart  the largest single retail site in the village since it opened in 1992  had been dormant since December 2019.

Aldi chose not to wait on other retail tenants before opening. The remaining space is in various redevelopment stages that could leave room for four to six tenants.
While the global business setting is still dynamic, these strong results, along with the dedication of our employees and our diverse global strategy, provide us with a solid starting point to achieve our fiscal 2022 targets, Ingle said.

Unifi recently split its international revenue reporting.

The first-quarter sales breakdown was: a 29.5% increase in polyester to $89.5 million; a 36.3% increase in sales in Asia to $51.4 million; a 49.2% increase in sales in Brazil to $33.7 million; and an 82.8% increase in nylon to $20.2 million.

Ingle said Unifi achieved our highest quarterly net sales since the June 2013 quarter.

Strong performance in Brazil and Asia contributed to the favorable results, while the polyester and nylon segments continue to demonstrate recovery from the pandemic.

Revenue from its Repreve fibers represented 37% of net sales.

Repreve, introduced in 2006, is polyester yarn made from chips that come mainly from recycled bottles. Sorbtek is its moisture management yarn. Repreve-based yarns are used to make products for the apparel, outdoor, home textiles and automotive sectors.
Q: Ive noticed a couple of parks in Winston-Salem seem to have have new names. Who was Jerry King? Also Quarry Park has a new name. Who is Tim Grant?

R.D.

Answer: Jerry King Park on Ogburn Avenue was formerly Mineral Springs Park, said William Royston, the director of the Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks Department.

It was renamed in memory of PFC Jerry King, the only known Winston-Salem resident killed in the Persian Gulf War. He lived in the neighborhood where the park is located,

According to a 2008 story by Journal reporter Jim Sparks, King was born in Mount Airy. He and his family moved to Winston-Salem when he was 10 years old.

He graduated from West Forsyth High School in 1989 and joined the U.S. Army during his senior year in high school. After graduation he reported to Fort Bragg and was assigned to the 20th Engineer Brigade of the 82nd Airborne Division.

In August of 1990, Kings unit was sent to the Persian Gulf. He was killed Feb. 26, 1991, at the age of 20.

King is buried in the National Cemetery in Salisbury.
A 23-year-old man was shot in the chest at Rolling Hills apartments off New Walkertown Road on Monday but died before a relative trying to drive him to the hospital could get more than a mile away from the complex, reports show.

Police identified the shooting victim as Kelvin Rayvon James Jr., who lived on Cayuga Street. Two other people were shot during the attack and were in stable condition. Police said they believe the injured people were bystanders struck by gunfire and not targets.

The victims uncle said James had driven to the apartment complex on Ferrell Court in response to a dispute involving other members of his extended family. The report of the shooting came in to authorities just before 7 p.m.

Darryl Scales, the uncle, said his sister drove James away from the complex after another man shot him but that she got only as far as the parking lot of the Wells Fargo bank at the corner of New Walkertown Road and Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

My sister tried to take my nephew to the hospital, and then when he passed away she pulled in right here, Scales said, as he stood across the street from the bank parking lot Monday night. The shooter was not a member of the family, Scales said.
I do expect a pretty high peak (for booster shots), and then for it to plateau out much as we saw with the Pfizer (booster), said Nikki Nissen, Novants chief nursing officer.

Well shift operations to meet what the community demand is.

Priest cautioned that for those under age 65 and not immunocompromised, theres not a huge rush to get the third dose.

If you have had two (vaccine) doses and youve had COVID, youve essentially had three doses, Priest said. He recommended waiting at least two weeks from now before getting a third dose in any case.

Eligible people can get their booster shots from participating health care providers, including local pharmacies, and do not need to get it from the same provider as their initial doses.

Although Priest advises getting the same booster as the initial vaccine doses, he said it is safe to get the booster from another vaccine manufacturer.

The J&J booster shot is recommended for anyone 18 and older who received that vaccine at least two months ago.
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An Indiana company wants to build a 192-unit apartment complex near Southwest 27th and West B streets  an affordable housing project financed by low-income housing credits.

On Monday, the City Council unanimously approved two resolutions that will allow the project to move forward: a blight designation for the area and a resolution signaling the council's intent to issue $18 million in housing development bonds for the project.

The financing mechanism will allow the developer, The Annex Group, to take advantage of the low-income tax credits to pay back the bonds, said Urban Development Director Dan Marvin.

This is the second project to use that financing mechanism for affordable housing since the city adopted its Coordinated Affordable Housing Action Plan.

The first was Gatehouse Rows, a 98-unit apartment complex planned on nearly nine acres at 36th and R streets on land just west of Wyuka Cemetery.

A third planned project expected to be financed in part by low-income housing credits is affordable housing at the Veterans Administration campus, where a new clinic recently opened. It has not yet come before the council.
Residents of an area east of Lincoln are prepared to pitch a last-ditch battle to keep thousands of solar panels from going up near their backyards.

Ranger Power wants to build a solar farm of up to 250 megawatts, which would be the largest ever built in the state. It would be spread out over about 2,800 acres in an area stretching roughly from 120th to 190th streets and from O Street to Havelock Avenue.

About half the land is in the three-mile zoning jurisdiction controlled by the city, and the rest is in the county's jurisdiction. That has led to a more than two-year process of seeking a permit for the portion in the city's jurisdiction and working to change county zoning laws to accommodate the project.

Ranger Power is now looking to amend its city special permit to add more land, while at the same time seeking approval of a county special permit to accommodate that part of the project. Public hearings on both applications are scheduled Wednesday before the Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Commission.

Sean Harris, vice president of development for Ranger Power, said the company is "really excited about the project, the only project we're developing in Nebraska."
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Nebraska's largest solar farm planned east of Lincoln is looking to clear final zoning hurdles

Residents of an area east of Lincoln are prepared to pitch a last-ditch battle to keep thousands of solar panels from going up near their backyards.

Ranger Power wants to build a solar farm of up to 250 megawatts, which would be the largest ever built in the state. It would be spread out over about 2,800 acres in an area stretching roughly from 120th to 190th streets and from O Street to Havelock Avenue.

About half the land is in the three-mile zoning jurisdiction controlled by the city, and the rest is in the county's jurisdiction. That has led to a more than two-year process of seeking a permit for the portion in the city's jurisdiction and working to change county zoning laws to accommodate the project.

Ranger's proposed solar farm would be spread out over about 2,800 acres in an area stretching roughly from 120th to 190th streets and from O Street to Havelock Avenue.

Ranger Power is now looking to amend its city special permit to add more land, while at the same time seeking approval of a county special permit to accommodate that part of the project. Public hearings on both applications are scheduled Wednesday before the Lincoln-Lancaster County Planning Commission.

Sean Harris, vice president of development for Ranger Power, said the company is "really excited about the project, the only project we're developing in Nebraska."

Harris said Ranger Power chose the spot outside of Lincoln for several reasons. Among them are that it's close to an existing substation, which means any power generated can easily be transported to the electrical grid, and that it's also close to the large population centers of Lincoln and Omaha.

Compromise zoning change a win for homeowners near planned solar project east of Lincoln The proposal approved by the Planning Commission would allow solar farms on agriculturally zoned outlots, but only in future developments, not existing ones.

The interest is also driven because the city of Lincoln and Lancaster County have shown a willingness and interest in hosting the project, he said.

But that interest and willingness does not extend to many of the residents of the areas where the solar panels would be located.

Dozens of residents have sent emails opposing the project to the Planning Commission, Lincoln City Council and Lancaster County Board. Many of them also have testified in front of those boards during public hearings on various applications related to the project.

Mick Von Busch, who has been one of the most vocal opponents, said he believes the main reason Ranger Power targeted Lancaster County is because of its lack of regulations.

"There is no regulation on any of this, honest to God," Von Busch said during an Oct. 13 Planning Commission hearing. "That's why they're here. It's easy to put in."

Ranger Power's application is the first "industrial-scale" solar project proposed in the county.

Courtesy photo A rendering shows a series of solar panels planned as part of a project east of Lincoln.

The largest current facility in the county is Lincoln Electric System's 5-megawatt solar farm near Northwest 75th and West Holdrege streets. Other solar arrays in the county are much smaller.

Much like with wind farms, which have caused controversy, the county's zoning code had very few rules pertaining to solar farms.

The city's zoning code did have a provision allowing them with a special permit, but the county's zoning code had to be rewritten to accommodate them.

The zoning code changes that were approved allow large commercial solar farms in the county jurisdiction on industrial-zoned land and on agricultural-zoned land with a special permit.

However, opponents found one specific change particularly galling.

Ranger Power had proposed allowing solar panels on outlots that are part of acreage developments in what are known as community unit plans.

The Planning Commission recommended allowing the change only on future community unit plans, not existing ones, but the County Board did not follow that recommendation and voted to allow solar panels on existing outlots in community unit plans.

Lancaster County Board will allow solar panels on acreage 'outlots' despite homeowners' objections The Lancaster County Board approved a change sought by a company wanting to expand its planned solar farm farther east. In doing so, the board rejected a recommendation that the change apply only to future outlots.

That means people who bought acreages believing that land next to them would be either open space or land that's farmed could now have solar panels within 300 feet of their homes. Property owners not in a community unit plan could have panels within 100 feet of their homes.

David Bargen, an attorney representing several homeowners who would be affected by the change, said at the Oct. 13 Planning Commission hearing that the decision by the County Board "has fundamentally altered community unit plans" in Lancaster County.

Besides the worry about the aesthetics of having solar panels so close to their homes and fears about a potential decline in property values, neighbors also have expressed concerns about the potential fire hazard the panels will present, possible environmental damage they might cause and future decommissioning procedures.

Von Busch and other neighbors represented by Bargen proposed their own changes to the county zoning code. They include lower sound limits on privately owned electrical substations, requiring fire protection and environmental plans, and increasing setback and screening requirements.

The Planning Commission recommended denial of all of those changes, but the final decision will be up to the City Council and County Board.

The proposed solar farm does have plenty of supporters. They include environmental groups, agricultural and business groups, as well as landowners who have signed leases to place solar panels on their land.

Solar company seeking zoning change to aid expansion Ranger Power wants to expand the physical size of a proposed solar farm east of Lincoln, though some neighbors protested at the proposal at Wednesday's meeting.

They have pointed to the fact that the solar farm will pay hundreds of thousands of dollars in property taxes each year and also will help produce more clean energy and reduce emissions.

Harris said the objections the company has heard on this project are the same ones it has heard from opponents of projects it has worked on elsewhere.

He said the company strives to be a good neighbor and has not had any issues with fires, storm damage or environmental contamination.

Ranger Power, which is based in Chicago, is a relatively new company and has only one solar farm that's currently operating, in Michigan. But it has a number of projects in development across the Midwest.

Harris said there is a huge appetite for renewable energy from large corporate users, including ones such as Facebook that have built data centers in the Omaha area.

It's widely believed that Ranger may be hoping to sell power to the Google data center that's planned near the 56th Street exit off of Interstate 80 north of Lincoln. Power from Ranger's solar farm in Lancaster County is also likely to be attractive to utilities such as LES, Omaha Public Power District and Nebraska Public Power District, which have renewable energy goals to meet.

Planners OK allowing solar farms across Lancaster County While solar facilities are allowed inside the Lincoln city limits and in a 3-mile ring around the city that's under its zoning jurisdiction, they are not currently allowed in areas covered by the county's zoning code.

Harris said the company does not have any power purchase agreements in place yet, but he said it has talked to all of the state's major utilities.

Ranger has not spoken to any out-of-state utilities, as officials believe there will be a market for all of the power generated to stay in the state.

Once the project moves on from the Planning Commission, its special permit applications will need approval from both the City Council and County Board. Assuming that occurs, Harris said the company will need several months to get power purchase agreements in place and secure financing for the project, which has an estimated cost of more than $230 million.

He said construction likely would not start until late next year or in early 2023, and the project would take 12-15 months to build, meaning it wouldn't come online until the end of 2024.
Not all patients need all three components, Kemp said. A cancer patient with low platelet levels just needs platelets. An anemic patient needs red blood cells.

But people who are bleeding heavily, he said, need all three. A key reason people bleed to death is that their blood doesnt clot. To mitigate that, doctors give them back what theyre missing. Doctors can give all three separate products. But giving whole blood can streamline the process. The aim is to buy patients time until doctors can fix the source of bleeding, which often involves surgery.

Whole blood is the closest thing we have to what patients are losing, Kemp said.

Wendy Capetz, the blood banks marketing director, said the organization has been involved in clinical trials of whole blood with researchers at the Cleveland Clinic and other centers. The results support those of the military studies indicating that the use of whole blood in people who were bleeding heavily helped improve survival.

Kemp said not a lot of hospitals use whole blood. He and Dr. Aleh Bobr, medical director of the Nebraska Medicine Blood Bank, were familiar with the practice when they trained at the Mayo Clinic, which uses whole blood.
ST. LOUIS  One mans dreams of sailing to the Gulf of Mexico likely came to an end overnight Sunday at the bottom of the Mississippi River.

Michael Webers 44-foot sailboat, the White Widow, had been stuck on the Chain of Rocks since Oct. 5 after he missed the exit for a navigation canal and ended up lodged on the dam north of downtown St. Louis.

While insurance companies haggled over how to remove the vessel, rising water from weekend storms apparently dislodged it. Dustin Witt, parts manager for Port Charles Harbor in St. Charles County, said he assumed it sank. Harbor workers were out about 8 a.m. Monday to hunt for the boat but found nothing, Witt said.

The only thing found at the surface after hours of searching Monday was the boats dinghy floating downstream, a Coast Guard official said.

Weber, who lives near Hell, Michigan, told the Post-Dispatch last week that he and his girlfriend began their trip Sept. 28 from Chicago. The former Marine and retired businessman said hes been boating and sailing for years, mostly in Lake Michigan or an ocean.
Deputies found Hollen face-down in a closed closet with bruising on the back of his head, arms, back and legs and two black eyes, Deputy Thomas Osienger wrote in an affidavit for a search warrant.

The boy was taken to a local hospital and later flown to Children's Hospital in Omaha, where he died the next day.

"The evidence that has been presented to you in this case during the last week shows beyond a reasonable doubt that Jake Gonzalez ... got angry and literally beat Hollen Siedschlag to death," Tangeman said. "I tried to think of a nicer way to say that, but there really isn't any. That's exactly what happened."

He said there was nothing the doctors could do.

Tangeman said Bailey Siedschlag had just picked up Hollen from child care at about 4:45 p.m. He'd been fine there all day. But she dropped him off at home with Gonzalez to change a dirty diaper while she and her daughter headed to Walmart.

It was in that brief window that Gonzalez grew frustrated at Hollen and snapped, Tangeman said.

"You don't bust a kid's lip or cause knuckle or hand marks on their head and cause literally dozens of injuries on the abdomen, on the face, all over the kid's body. You don't do that on accident," Tangeman said.
A strong advocate for rural development, who was known for getting things done during his long tenure in the Nebraska Legislature, has died.

Former Sen. Merton "Cap" Dierks, 89, died Friday from complications following a stroke. He was known as a state senator who preserved relationships as he advocated for issues important to him.

"Rural America lost one of its very best champions," said John Hansen, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, describing Dierks as "one of the most influential and respected state senators" in the Legislature in the last 35-plus years. "He argued things from a moral and ethical and policy perspective, so he raised the level of debate on a lot of discussions."

Former U.S. Sen. and Nebraska Gov. Bob Kerrey and current Sen. Deb Fischer offered similar praise.

"Cap was a man whose faith and love of Nebraska combined with the virtue of caring about the opinions of everyone made him a model of what public service is at its best," Kerrey posted in a tribute on Facebook. "I trusted and loved this man completely. Young Nebraskans: Remember him. Be like him. You cannot do better."
The Cheney campaign has now collected over $5 million this year and ended the third fundraising quarter with nearly $3.7 million to spend. The $5 million is already millions more than Cheney raised over the entire 2019-2020 campaign cycle.

Cheneys unitemized donations account for about 22.5% of her donations from individuals, which excludes political action committees or PACs. The proportion of money that comes from individual unitemized donors is a good pulse on the grassroots support for the candidate, as they must be under $200. The Cheney campaign said it had not yet calculated the proportion of unitemized donors who listed Wyoming addresses.

State Sen. Anthony Bouchard was the first Republican to announce he would challenge Cheney, and he has remained in the race even after Trump endorsed another candidate, lawyer Harriet Hageman, to unseat Wyomings congresswoman. Although Bouchard has raised far less than Cheney, almost 70% of his total money raised came from unitemized donations. He also has yet to take any PAC money.

The percentage of PAC money that Cheney has been relying on has been steadily declining over the past three quarters.
LONDON (AP)  Londons police force has apologized to the family of two murdered sisters, saying its initial response to the crime was below the standard that it should have been.
Nebraska currently has 15,348 bridges, including 1,302 classified as structurally deficient. These bridges are paramount to our farmers, allowing them to remain competitive and supply their products on the open market. Thankfully, the infrastructure package provides Nebraska  directly  with $225 million for bridge replacement and repairs and allows for additional bids within the $12.5 billion Bridge Investment Program for our economically significant bridges. We know that most of these bridges are economically significant to many people  whether rural, urban or suburban.

Perhaps most importantly, Nebraska could receive more than $2 billion in federal-aid highway apportioned programs, upgrading and repairing nearly 1,125 miles of highway currently in poor condition. These roads and highways are the lifeline of our rural economy and will save consumers almost $461 per year in costs due to driving on roads in need of repair.

This may not seem like much, but over time, it adds up. What would you buy with an extra $461? Every penny counts in this economy, especially with the pandemic still making life hard for our families and small businesses. Its especially tough in our rural enclaves.
"This is a great place to find jobs. Nebraska offers an unmatched quality of life. Nebraska is one big small town." -- Gov. Pete Ricketts, announcing a $10 million campaign, funded by federal CARES Act money, to attract people from out of state to find jobs and build a lives in Nebraska.

We will fight these charges. I did not lie to them." -- Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, in a video recorded before his federal indictment on three felonies related to an FBI investigation of illegal contributions made to his 2016 re-election campaign.

"This is a situation we've seen before  a surge, then a decline, then a plateau before case numbers drop again." -- Pat Lopez, Lincoln-Lancaster County Health director, addressing COVID numbers and the concern that cases could climb with colder weather and people spending more time indoors.
RACINE  During a visit to Gateway Technical Colleges Racine Campus on Friday, U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., said she had not given up on her efforts to include Americas College Promise Act in the Build Back Better budget, despite setbacks.

The act would provide two years of tuition-free community or technical college education that would lead to a degree or industry-recognized credentials and was originally included in the budget. The original Build Back Better budget came in at $3.5 trillion and also included measures to lower child care costs, cut taxes for working families while raising taxes for those who made more than $400,000 a year and corporations, expanded Medicare and Medicaid, and environmental measures.

But, in order for budget reconciliation to pass, the budget needs approval from all 50 Democrats in the Senate or to lure a defector or two from the Republicans.

Two key votes remain in the balance from moderate Democrats: those of Sen. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona and Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. Senate Democrats have been working to reach an agreement and have cut the budget to a reported $1.7 trillion, but Baldwin told those attending the roundtable discussion Friday, with Wisconsin Regional Training Partnership/BIG STEP at Gateway, she would continue her efforts.

We need to hold all of our members together in order to pass the Build Back Better budget, Baldwin told a Journal Times reporter in an interview after the discussion. Ive been tracking closely the concerns that have been raised, and have been proposing modifications to hopefully get everyone on board.

Can you do the work?

The roundtable discussion focused on growing and improving Wisconsins workforce.

WTRG/BIG STEP and Gateway partnered in 2018 to offer a job training program in Racine County, which also works with industry professionals to determine workforce needs.

A key focus of the original infrastructure plan was replacing lead pipes. With around 11,000 lead pipes still being used in the City of Racine, Mayor Cory Mason said the funding to get them replaced was helpful, to a point. Mason expressed frustration with how, in the midst of the pandemic, supply chain shortages became abundant in-part due to worker shortages; with the money to get the lead pipes removed, there needs to be men and women who are trained  at institutions like Gateway  to do the work.

Its frustrating sometimes to hear the debate in D.C. as though the humans that would need to do the infrastructure work are somehow separate and not as important as the concrete or the equipment used to be built that infrastructure, the mayor said.

The BIG STEP program serves typically underserved members of the community, who are often living in poverty and make less than $9,000 a year. Charnele Evans was one of those people. After completing the program, Evans has been working with Current Electric Co. for a year and is currently working at the Horlick Lofts job site, supporting her daughters.

I thought I was going to apply to live at those apartments but I cant now because I make too much, Evans said.

Evans said that she and her daughters live in different worlds and while she said she didnt have many opportunities growing up, she is now able to boost her daughters toward a different life.

Im definitely telling my kids: We can do it, and were going to do it, Evans said. And Im doing it.

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The defense in the Kyle Rittenhouse case hopes to bring in testimony about their clients interactions with police in the hours before he is alleged to have shot three people, saying those encounters shed light on whether Rittenhouses actions were reckless.

At a hearing Monday in Kenosha County Circuit Court, Rittenhouses attorneys addressed a state motion seeking to block testimony about those encounters. Defense attorney Corey Chirafisi said Rittenhouses encounters and conversations with police on the day of Aug. 25, 2020, are relevant to the charges against Rittenhouse, which include reckless homicide and recklessly endangering safety.

Among those encounters with police was one captured on video, with an anonymous police officer addressing Rittenhouse and others carrying AR-15 rifles at the Car Source car lot, the officer saying we appreciate you guys, we really do.

The defense also hopes to call as a witness a Kenosha Police officer who, the day of the shootings, recognized Rittenhouse from an earlier police call when Rittenhouse was in a fight, and had what Kenosha County Assistant District Attorney Tom Binger called a cordial interaction.

Chirafisi said that Rittenhouses interactions with police earlier in the night are relevant because the jury instructions for the reckless charges ask the jury to consider whether his actions were reckless or not.

Prosecution objects

Binger wants to block the testimony about those police interactions.

I appreciate attorney Chirafisi making explicit what I have long suspected, that this is going to be a trial over the Police Departments activity that night, Binger said. I think the defense argument here is pretty clear, they want to say that because police officers saw him and didnt stop him, then somehow his actions are lawful.

The prosecutor argued that interactions Rittenhouse had with police earlier in the night are not relevant to his actions later.

Rittenhouse is charged with first-degree attempted homicide, first-degree attempted homicide and first degree reckless homicide for shooting three men, killing two: Anthony Huber of Silver Lake and Joseph Rosenbaum of Kenosha. Gaige Grosskreutz of West Allis was injured. Rittenhouse and his supporters have maintained he was acting in self defense.

Kenosha County Circuit Court Judge Bruce Schroeder said he would leave the door open to allow testimony about the police interactions. It seems to me, my bias at this point, was toward allowing that evidence in, Schroeder said, noting that he typically waits to make final decisions about what would be allowed until he sees evidence coming at trial.

Motions denied

Schroeder shot down several state motions at Monday's hearing, including a motion asking to block the defense from referring to the men who were shot as looters or rioters, and indicated he was open to the defense bringing in evidence about their actions earlier in the night of the shooting.

The judge told Binger that in the state's closing arguments he would be able to argue that Rittenhouse "is a cold-blooded killer, then why couldn't (an attorney) call someone a rioter?"

Schroeder also did not look favorably on the state motion that would have blocked the defense from bringing in evidence of actions by the men who were shot that Rittenhouse did not witness himself. Chirafisi and Richards argued that those actions were relevant because they showed that Rosenbaum was the likely aggressor in his encounter with Rittenhouse.

"To say this is coming down to those three minutes in a vacuum, thats illogical," Chirafisi argued. "If I attack you and you use self defense the jury gets to hear that because it goes to the reasonableness of your actions. If Rosenbaum is the aggressor, it goes directly to the issue of whether the jury would believe (Rittenhouse's) actions were reasonable."

Schroeder said case law supported the defense position.

After a lengthy discussion at hearing, Schroeder said that he would allow the defense's use-of-force expert John Black to testify at the trial, but said he would not be allowed to testify to his opinion about whether Rittenhouse's actions were justified or about his conclusions about the motivations of the men who were shot.

Defense attorney Mark Richards said Black would use video analysis to explain the timing of the events around the shootings.

Rittenhouse is scheduled to go to trial Nov. 1.

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RACINE COUNTY  At least three grandparent scams have been reported within the past two weeks  and one Union Grove man helped stop two of them before it was too late.

The three reported scams occurred Oct. 18, Oct. 20 and Oct. 22 and happened on the western side of Racine County. The man who helped stop the first two, David Labrie, owner of Postal Xpress in Union Grove, said he was just doing what he can to help the community.

I just hope I can help more people, Labrie said. The expressions on (the victims) faces when they found out, its terrible. Im watching for it every day.

According to information from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, a grandparent scam is when scammers contact elderly people and impersonate a family member or friend desperately in need of money due to a supposed emergency and convince the victim to send money quickly.

This is a fairly well-known type of scam, DATCP Public Information Officer Ti Gauger said in an email.

The scams

An elderly woman came into Postal Xpress, the shipping and mailing service business located at 4380 67th Drive, on Oct. 18 and requested to mail a package. Labrie could tell something was up with it.

She claimed to be shipping photographs wrapped in a bubble mailer to Florida, and was asking for an overnight shipment which was going to cost her $130.

Labrie asked a few more questions and found out what she was really mailing was $7,000 cash. She had been told by a scammer over the phone that her grandson was in jail and she needed to bail him out.

Labrie alerted her to the scam and helped stop it from continuing, but the issues didnt stop there.

On Oct. 20, another customer came into the store with a bubble mailer and was claiming to be sending photographs. Next, it was documents.

She said it was just documents. She couldnt really verbalize who it was for or why, Labrie said. He did not wish to identify either of the victims.

He gave both customers the famous Clint Eastwood stare, the look where he squints and lifts his lip up, to let them know this was serious, he said, laughing.

Labrie found that once again the customer was sending cash, specifically $8,000, to California to supposedly pay for someones medical bills. Her grandson was allegedly in a car crash and caused a supposed injury to someone else.

The day prior, someone had come to the womans door and asked for cash on the spot. She gave the individual $10,000  a loss she most likely cant ever get back.

Labrie said if she had gone through with the mail scam, and lost a total of $18,000, that wouldve equated to pretty much her life savings going to them. The first lady, shes lucky she didnt lose anything.

Labrie got the Racine County Sheriffs Office involved after the second incident.

The two women were thankful Labrie caught the scam in action, he said.

I think they just really wanted to believe they were talking to their grandson. They said it sounded just like them, Labrie said.

The third recent known grandparent scam occurred in the Town of Norway, according to information from the Sheriffs Office.

The Sheriffs Office would like to caution people against phone scams that have been used to victimize people in the area, the Sheriffs Office wrote in a social media post Monday. The Sheriffs Office requests people be suspicious of these types of telephone calls.

The grandchild on the phone during the scam gives the phone to another person posing as an attorney. The attorney demands a large sum of cash to get the grandchild out of jail. The attorney makes statements about a gag order so that the elderly people are told to not discuss the matter with anyone. The attorney instructs the victims to go to their bank and withdraw cash, then arranges for a courier to come to the homes and picks up money.

One of the couriers was described as a black woman in her early- to mid-20s. Another courier was described as a younger black man.

Sgt. Michael Luell, public information officer with the Sheriffs Office, told The Journal Times there are no arrests in this case and its an ongoing investigation.

Avoiding scams In order to avoid such a scam, be suspicious of anyone who calls unexpectedly asking for money. Ask for the callers name or contact information. Call family members, loved ones or friends and ask their opinion or ask questions about the situation  see if you can verify by calling the grandchild directly with a known correct phone number to see if he/she is really in need of help. If you receive a similar call, research the situation by contacting law enforcement or the hospital to verify the family member is there. If they are not, report the situation. The non-emergency number for the Racine County Communication Center is 262-886-2300. The DATCP has more tips and information about these scams at datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Publications/Senior-GrandparentsScam464.aspx.

Here to help

Labrie is used to catching these types of issues. He was in the U.S. Navy where he worked as a chief warrant officer cryptologist for 21 years, then was a federal investigator for 16 years. Hes owned Postal Xpress for four years.

He said he typically asks customers what theyre shipping without being too intrusive. A few red flags alerting him to potential scams include the age of the person and their vulnerability to scams, the amount of money they want to pay and the type of package theyre using.

Labrie keeps pamphlets on hand for customers with information on common scams. He said because he owns the store, he takes the time to take care of his customers, but acknowledges not every shipping or mailing service will do that.

He said finding one of his customers is about to be a victim of a scam only happens once in a while, but this was a unique situation where he found two in a week.

(Scammers) must be out there looking harder, he said. Its just good to help the community.

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BUFFALO GROVE, Ill.  Kenosha County Sheriffs Deputy Terry Tifft and his K9 Riggs received a heros welcome when the police dog was released from a veterinary hospital in Illinois on Sunday.

Dozens of human officers and their police dogs, along with Kenosha deputies, local first responders and family members turned out to honor the dog Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth called a hero for stopping an armed homicide suspect who was running toward Highway 50 Thursday in Bristol.

The man  33-year-old Allen Brown of Countryside, Ill.  shot Riggs in the head after the dog tackled Brown to the ground as he fled. Brown was then shot and wounded by deputies.

The dog did his job, he saved my life and those of my fellow officers, Tifft said. The man the dog tackled is suspected of killing two people earlier that day.

Tifft was emotional when Riggs was walked out of the Veterinary Specialty Center in Buffalo Grove, Ill. Sunday, kneeling and hugging the 8-year-old German shepherd who has been his partner since 2014.

Its very emotional, very emotional, I couldnt be happier right now, Tifft said before loading Riggs into his squad car to bring him back to Kenosha.

He was going to be followed on his trip by a procession of law enforcement vehicles, the deputy and his dog then honored again at a ceremony in a park before heading home. I cant believe how good he looks ... I thought it was bad, I thought I was going to lose him, Tifft said.

Chicago Police had asked sheriffs deputies to go to the Benson Corners Shell Station, 20000 75th St., Bristol on Thursday morning to search for a man suspected of killing two people and stealing one victims vehicle during a violent spree earlier the same day, according to Chicago media reports.

Three deputies, including Tifft, arrived at the station and the vehicle that had been stolen during the Chicago carjacking was in the station lot. They ordered Brown out of the vehicle. But, according to Beth, Brown got out of the car and began running toward Highway 50. Tifft released Riggs, who brought Brown to the ground just before he ran onto the road. Brown then shot the dog.

Very lucky dog

On Sunday, the healing bullet wound was visible in the center of Riggs forehead just above his eyes.

He is a very, very lucky dog, said veterinarian Jennifer Herring. She said the bullet entered Riggs forehead then skirted through the muscle along his skull, exiting through the back of his head near the base of his skull. She said the path of the bullet was visible through the muscle, and there was some bruising to his brain, but said Harris escaped serious injury and should recover well.

Hes a very strong dog, Herring said.

Riggs was first treated by staff of Harris Veterinary Hospital in Paddock Lake, with staff riding in the Salem Lakes Fire Department ambulance that brought him to the hospital in Buffalo Grove. Paramedics Kyle Tobias and Eric Epstein, who were in the ambulance that transported the dog, came to see his release from the hospital.

Epstein said Riggs was unusually calm in the ambulance despite his injury. I was just trying to keep him calm, Epstein said, as a veterinary technician from Harris handled his care. He was very relaxed, and kind of acting like a regular dog (in the ambulance). I was petting him and he was leaning up against me.

Shooter was suspect in two killings

Brown was shot in the leg and abdomen. He had surgery at a local hospital and is expected to survive. He is likely to face felony charges in Kenosha for the shooting.

According to WBBM-TV, Brown is suspected of shooting and killing a 25-year-old man during an argument at a bus stop in Chicago at about 1 a.m. Thursday. He then ran from that shooting and carjacked a 41-year-old man, shooting that man in the chest and stealing his vehicle. The second victim died at an area hospital. Brown has two previous felony convictions, the most recent in 2009 for aggravated battery to a police officer.

On Sunday, many of the canine officers and police dogs that turned out to welcome Riggs as he left the hospital also train at Tops Kennel in Grayslake, Ill. The Kenosha County Sheriffs Department K9 officers and their dogs regularly train at the kennel, which also provides the department their dogs.

Trainer Alex Rothacker was also at the veterinary hospital to greet Riggs and Tifft.

The dog did what he was supposed to do, he did his job, which is to protect his family  and for these dogs, all people are their family, Rothacker said. Emotionally, he is fine. They told me that when he got shot he never let go, which is remarkable  I pray that the sheriff lets him go back to work.

For now, though, Tifft said he was anxious to get Riggs home. We just want to go home and get some rest, he said.

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NEW YORK (AP)  Details are still emerging about how Alec Baldwin accidentally shot and killed a cinematographer on a New Mexico film set, but some political onlookers swiftly assigned guilt to one of Hollywood's most prominent liberals.

Right-wing pundits and politicians have long chafed at Baldwins criticism of former President Donald Trump and his Trump parody on Saturday Night Live." They wasted little time zeroing in on the actor who pulled the trigger. The hashtag #AlecForPrison ricocheted around Twitter.

Within hours of the shooting, Ohio Republican Senate candidate J.D. Vance asked Twitter to let Trump back on the social media platform that banned him after the Capitol insurrection. We need Alec Baldwin tweets, Vance wrote.

By Monday, Trumps oldest son was selling $28 T-shirts on his official website with the slogan Guns dont kill people, Alec Baldwin kills people. The post was later removed.

Gun violence has long divided the country, but the fact that some observers seemed to revel in Baldwins role in the shooting added a political dimension to the tragedy. CNN host Jake Tapper on Sunday called Hutchins death heartbreaking for normal people.

But theres something about our politics right now that is driving people away from our shared humanity, Tapper said.

Court records provided some details about the death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of Rust near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Authorities have said that the assistant director, Dave Halls, handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced cold gun, indicating that the weapon was safe to use.

In an affidavit released Sunday night, the films director, Joel Souza, said Baldwin was rehearsing a scene in which he drew a revolver from his holster and pointed it toward the camera, which Hutchins and Souza were behind. Souza, who was wounded by the shot, said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds.

Its not clear yet where the gun-handling protocol failed. Souza said the movies guns were usually checked by armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and then again by Halls.

At least two people have aired doubts about Halls safety record.

In an email statement to The Associated Press, a producer for the movie Freedoms Path confirmed Monday that Halls was fired from the 2019 production after a crew member suffered a minor injury when a gun was unexpectedly discharged. The producer, who asked not to be identified by name, wrote that Halls was removed from the set immediately. Production did not resume until Halls was gone.

Prop maker Maggie Goll on Sunday said she filed an internal complaint in 2019 over concerns about Halls behavior on the set of Hulus Into the Dark series. Goll said Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician, who was diabetic, lost consciousness on set.

Neither Gutierrez-Reed nor Halls have responded to requests for comment on the shooting.

In the affidavit, cameraman Reid Russell said Baldwin had been careful with weapons. Russell was unsure whether the weapon was checked before it was handed to Baldwin.

In the aftermath of Hutchins death, many in the film industry have argued that real guns should be replaced entirely by computer-generated effects.

There should not have been a loaded gun on set, actor Riley Keough wrote on Instagram. We dont need real guns, we can make replicas, and we have CGI. In my opinion, that is the issue here. Not Alec Baldwin.

And yet, as director Gigi Saul Guerrero observed, Baldwin has been the face to this tragic story. The 63-year-old actor, a vocal advocate of gun-law reforms, has been widely mocked by the far-right on social media.

Literally not one single thing that Alec Baldwin has said about Donald Trump and his supporters is going to age well, tweeted conservative commentator Candace Owens.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Colorado Republican, cited a tweet of Baldwins last year supporting Black Lives Matter protesters in which Baldwin said he was going to make T-shirts that read: My hands are up. Please dont shoot me! Wrote Boebert: Alec Baldwin, are these still available? Asking for a movie producer.

Boebert received widespread criticism. Actor George Takei said Boebert had no soul." Actress Rosanna Arquette wrote: This was a tragic and horrible accident. Ms. Boebart and you should be ashamed of yourself politicizing it. But Boebert stood by her tweet.

"You crazy Blue Checks want to take away our right to defend ourselves with a firearm, and know NOTHING about basic gun safety!" Boebert wrote. If this was a conservative celebrity youd be calling for his head.

The films chief electrician, Serge Svetnoy, blamed producers for Hutchins death in an emotional Facebook post Sunday. Svetnoy faulted negligence and unprofessionalism among those handling weapons on the set, and claimed producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

Im sure that we had the professionals in every department, but one  the department that was responsible for the weapons, Svetnoy wrote. The person who should have checked this weapon before bringing it to the set did not do it. And the DEATH OF THE HUMAN IS THE RESULT!

A spokesman for the films production company, Rust Movie Productions LLC, has said it is cooperating with authorities and conducting an internal review. The company said it was halting production on the film but signaled it may resume in the future.

Baldwin has said he is cooperating with the law enforcement investigation and described the shooting as a tragic accident.



Associated Press writers Hillel Italie in New York and Lindsey Bahr in Pittsburgh contributed to this report.

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

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A campaign that began with ordinary people donating frequent-flyer miles has raised enough in two months to provide 40,000 flights for refugees from Afghanistan, and organizers and the White House are looking to nearly double that figure.

About 3,200 flights with donated miles have already carried Afghans from temporary housing at military bases in the U.S. to new homes around the United States, according to organizers.

Corporations have made half of the contributions so far, mostly in tickets donated by airlines.

The campaign is being organized by Welcome.US and Miles4Migrants, a group that was founded in 2016 and uses donated miles and credit card points to help refugees. The group saw support for refugees fleeing Afghanistan in August, as the U.S. military withdrew and turned the country over to the Taliban, and began talking to other nonprofits about helping.

Government resources are limited, and we knew that the American people wanted to support Afghans who were arriving and help them find safe homes, said the miles groups co-founder, Andy Freedman. Thats when we turned to the airlines.

United Airlines has contributed 7,000 flights and American Airlines donated 6,000. Smaller contributions have come in from Delta, JetBlue, Alaska, Frontier, Air Canada, aircraft maker Boeing and the Tripadvisor Charitable Foundation, organizers say.

Individuals have donated enough miles and credit card points to cover 20,000 flights, according to the organizers.

It is incredibly inspiring to see the American people and American companies coming together to welcome our new Afghan neighbors in this way, said Nazanin Ash, a former State Department official during the Bush and Obama administrations and now the CEO of Welcome.US, a new not-for-profit coalition that is trying to generate private-sector support for arriving Afghans.

The organizers are looking to raise enough additional donations to pay for another 30,000 flights. Using donated miles and cash to pay for travel will free up government refugee aid for housing and other services, organizers say.

Historically, the evacuees typically pay for their own travel. That is quite a burden to be putting on people who come (to the U.S.) with very little, said former Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, who is President Joe Bidens point person on aiding the Afghan refugees and is also Bidens nominee for ambassador to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

According to Markell, about 9,000 Afghans have been resettled in the U.S., about 53,000 are living in temporary housing at military bases in the U.S., another 3,700 are coming in next 10 days from bases in Europe and the Middle East, and up to 30,000 more are projected to arrive over the next year or so, a figure that includes people still in Afghanistan.

Military planes were used to evacuate Afghans from a chaotic scene at Kabul's main airport. Airlines then carried them from bases in Europe and the Middle East to the U.S. under contracts with the federal government

Veterans groups and others have scrambled to get Afghan allies such as interpreters who served the U.S. military on flights out of Kabul since the capital fell to the Taliban. Some don't have the special immigrant visas that were intended for Afghans who helped Americans during the 20-year U.S. military presence, and the U.S. abandoned its embassy in August.

Some former Trump administration officials are working to build opposition to the U.S. resettlement of Afghan refugees, saying they are a security threat. How many terrorists are among them? Trump said in a recent statement. The Biden administration says they were vetted before entering the U.S.

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

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Health officials are offering more lenient advice for this Sundays annual Halloween festivities, saying trick-or-treating outdoors is fine while recommending face masks and distancing.

I would say, Put on those costumes, stay outside and enjoy your trick-or-treating, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said on Fox News Sunday.

Walensky said she wouldnt gather in large settings outside and do screaming like you are seeing in those football games, if you are unvaccinated  those kids that are unvaccinated. But, if you are spread out doing your trick-or-treating, that should be very safe for your children, she said.

Last year, Wisconsin and most states were seeing a significant surge in COVID-19 activity in late October, nearly two months before vaccines became available to high-priority groups. The state Department of Health Services recommended against going house-to-house or having in-person contact on Halloween.

This year, the delta variant wave of the coronavirus appears to be receding after peaking in the state more than a month ago. Activity is still considered very high, but the daily average of new cases as of Tuesday was 1,865, less than half the level from a year ago. COVID-19 hospitalizations are lower than a year ago and declining, though still relatively high.

Nearly 57% of state residents, including nearly 69% of adults, have received at least one dose of vaccine. About half of those ages 12 to 17 have had at least one dose. The Pfizer vaccine could be available for children ages 5 to 11 as early as next week, following reviews by federal officials beginning Tuesday.

The state health departments website suggests safe Halloween celebrations, such as gathering within households, doing virtual events, watching online scary movies or visiting drive-thru haunted houses.

The agency also offers advice for no-contact trick-or-treating, including wearing costumes with well-fitting masks, staying 6 feet apart from people outside households, leaving treats or goody bags outside doors or at the end of driveways, using hand sanitizer and washing hands before eating treats. People who feel sick or have COVID-19 symptoms should stay home.

Public Health Madison and Dane County last year issued Halloween tips, saying trick-or-treaters should be only with people they live with, wear masks, stay 6 feet from others and remain in their neighborhoods.

Last year, the CDC considered trick-or-treating where treats are handed to children who go door to door to be a higher-risk activity. It recommended lower-risk activities such as decorating pumpkins or having virtual costume contests.

Walenskys more permissive guidance this year was preceded by similar advice from Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nations top infectious disease expert. Particularly if youre vaccinated, you can get out there. Youre outdoors for the most part, Fauci said in an Oct. 10 interview on CNN. I mean, this is a time that children love.
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP)  French far-right leader Marine Le Pen held talks Tuesday with populist Hungarian Prime Minster Viktor Orban in Budapest, a meeting the two politicians said advanced the cooperation of Europe's nationalist forces.

At a news conference in Hungary's capital following the meeting, Le Pen lambasted what she said was emerging ideological hegemony in the European Union, and she urged deeper cooperation among nationalist political parties that favor diminishing the EU's power over its member nations.

We have to have convergence, and this has to be our mode of existence, Le Pen said.

The visit reflected growing efforts by both Orban and Le Pen to consolidate the European right, including politicians and parties that share their anti-immigration views and opposition to the EU exercising certain legal powers over the bloc's 27 national governments.

Le Pen offered support to Orban in his governments conflict with the EU, which has accused Hungary of backsliding on essential rule of law commitments like media freedom and the independence of the judiciary. The EU has initiated legal action against Hungary and has yet to approve billions in post-pandemic recovery funds.

My message to the Hungarians is hold on and keep up, said Le Pen, who is expected to run in France's presidential election next year. You are projecting bravery to the nations of Europe and to freedom fighters.

Le Pen has also extended her support to Poland, which has a similar battle with the bloc. Last week, she met with Polish President Mateusz Morawiecki, a key Orban ally, on the sidelines of an EU summit in Brussels.

After that meeting, Le Pen tweeted that she and the Polish president had discussed the unacceptable blackmail of Poland by the EUs executive commission.

The bloc has accused Warsaw of undermining the independence of the judiciary and is threatening sanctions over Morawieckis insistence that Polish law trumps EU law.

But Le Pen on Tuesday emphasized the primacy of national laws, whether they comply with EU rules or not.

When sanctions are used to threaten people, especially Hungary and Poland, these are all efforts for new types of European hegemony," she said.

Le Pen's meeting last week with Morawiecki shocked many in Poland since the countrys ruling Law and Justice party has long refused to cooperate with the far-right politician over her warm relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin  a sensitive topic in the country that was long dominated by Russian and Soviet rule.

Orban receiving Le Pen in Hungary's capital also represented a pivot from the prime minister's earlier reluctance to be associated with the European far-right. In a 2019 interview for American magazine The Atlantic, Orban firmly ruled out any cooperation with the French politician, saying she was a red line."

"I have nothing at all to do with Madame Le Pen, Orban said in the interview.

But at the Tuesday news conference, Orban called Le Pen a sovereigntist and praised her for extending support to Hungary in its conflicts with the EU.

He said that Le Pen would be a partner in renewing the European right, and that this renewal can only happen if we enter into alliances with one another.

Both politicians are preparing for key elections next spring, with Orban facing the most serious challenge to his power since he took office in 2010.

Le Pen is aiming to unseat French President Emmanuel Macron but facing a potential challenge from rabble-rousing television pundit and author Eric Zemmour, whose anti-Islam and anti-immigration rhetoric has won over some of Le Pens base, according to polls.

Orban met Zemmour in Budapest last month, part of a series of meetings with right-wing nationalist politicians since his ruling Fidesz party left its center-right European political group, the European People's Party, in March.

Orban declined Tuesday to endorse either Le Pen or Zemmour, saying it was a decision for the French people.



Angela Charlton in Paris and Vanessa Gera in Warsaw contributed.

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

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1. Yes. Council members appear to have taken time to review each section carefully.

2. Yes. The council has set up town halls and a public hearing to inform the residents.

3. No. The council should have set up a charter review committee, including residents.

4. No. Some of the items proposed so far benefit the council more than the community.

5. Unsure. Its hard to say until after the public has had more opportunities to weigh in.

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Archer Daniels Midland's Columbus dry mill is part of a plan the company announced Monday to turn ethanol into sustainable jet fuel.

ADM said it has signed a memorandum of understanding with a company called Gevo Inc. to transform ethanol into sustainable jet fuel and other renewable hydrocarbon fuels.

According to terms of the deal, Colorado-based Gevo would use its processing technology to turn about 900 million gallons of ethanol produced at ADMs dry mills in Columbus and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, as well as its Decatur, Illinois, complex into about 500 million gallons of sustainable, low-carbon fuels for aviation and other industries.

The Columbus and Cedar Rapids facilities both have production capacities of about 300 million gallons a year, so it appears the plan is to dedicate all their capacity to the sustainable fuels effort.

Gevo CEO Patrick Gruber said in a news release that it has potential demand from customers for more than 1 billion gallons of sustainable fuels.
Sheriff's deputies in Houston made a horrifying discovery in an apartment Sunday: three children who they say were abandoned with the decaying body of another child inside.

"I had never heard of a scenario like this. It really caught me by surprise," Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said in a news conference Sunday.

The sheriff's office says the children are 15, 10 and 7 years old and are siblings.

In a news release, the sheriff's office said the 15-year-old called authorities and said his 9-year-old brother has been dead for a year and that his body was in the room next to his. The teen said his parents had not lived in the apartment for several months.

"It seems that they were in there while the body was deteriorating," Gonzalez said.

Investigators found the body unconcealed in the apartment, Gonzalez said. He didn't know how or when the child died.

"It appears the remains had been there for an extended period of time, and I emphasize extended," he said. When asked if he meant for weeks, he said "much longer than that."
I remember him as a jokester and yet sensitive, she said. We were seven years apart and he would have tea parties with me. He loved me. He loved us all.

Investigators don't know how Gacy came to know and target Alexander, who was born in North Carolina and lived in New York before moving to Chicago in the mid-1970s. They said he lived in an area Gacy that frequented and where some of his other victims had lived.

Alexanders remains were among 26 sets that police found in the crawl space under Gacys home just outside Chicago in 1978. Eight victims, including Alexander, were buried before police could determine who they were.

Sheriff Tom Darts office exhumed the remains in 2011 and called on anyone who had a male relative disappear in the Chicago area in the 1970s to submit DNA. Moran said the sheriff's office also partnered with the DNA Doe Project, a nonprofit that compares DNA from unidentified crime victims to genealogical databases.

They found potential relatives for the individual known as Victim #5  distant cousins of Alexander  and the sheriff's office then asked Alexander's mother for immediate family members' DNA samples.
Vice President Kamala Harris visited the afternoon meeting with the leaders of some of the nation's leading environmental and justice organizations and reiterated the president's commitment to the goals of the package  even as she acknowledged the sometimes grueling process to achieve consensus in the party.

The president and I and our administration are unwavering in our commitment to these issues. Absolutely unwavering," she said. But you know, theres an old saying, you dont want to watch sausage be made and you dont want to watch a bill being made.

A cornerstone of Bidens climate change strategy had been a clean energy plan that would have rewarded power providers that use clean sources and penalized those that dont.

But that approach had to be scrapped when Manchin objected. With Republicans fully opposed to Biden's big package, the president needs the support of all Democrats in the 50-50 split Senate, with no votes to spare.

The senior administration official said the administration was not wedded to one clean-energy strategy as a silver bullet.

Instead, officials are coalescing around a new package of strategies that could potentially achieve similar emission reduction goals without adding new costs to the overall package.
I cannot stress enough how traumatic this event is for the community at large, as well as for those that were witnesses, or are the families of those involved or involved themselves, Lee said.

After the shooting, several witnesses stood in the rain outside the entrance to Macys  one of five large department stores at the mall  waiting to be interviewed by police or told they could leave. Patrol cars from several agencies, ambulances and fire trucks filled a section of the mall parking lot. Officers from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were assisting in the investigation.

About a quarter of a mile away, officers closed part of a road near a busy intersection so they could investigate a second crime scene related to the shooting incident. Officers at the second crime scene declined to answer questions about the investigation other than to confirm it was related to the shooting investigation.

Cheri Gypin, of Boise, was in the mall with a friend where they walk for an hour three or four times a week. She said she heard several large bangs, but thought something had fallen from the ceiling. Then about 60 people, including families pushing strollers, came running at them, some of them shouting that there was an active shooter.
A key figure in the indictment of U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry for allegedly lying to federal investigators has resigned his position with a Washington, D.C.-based Christian group.

Toufic Baaklini, who resigned on Sunday, had served as president and a board member for several years for In Defense of Christians, an organization that fights persecution of Christians in the Middle East.

Baaklini told federal investigators that in January 2016, he was given $30,000 by Gilbert Chagoury, a Nigerian billionaire now living in Paris, for distribution as political contributions to Fortenberry. Baaklini said he gave the money to a California man who was hosting a fundraiser for Fortenberry at a Los Angeles restaurant. A group of people  with five of the donors having the last name Ayoub  were recruited to eventually donate the money.

It is illegal for foreigners to contribute to American political campaigns, including through third parties, a practice known as "conduit" contributions.
NORTH PLATTE Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested a Kansas man following multiple pursuits with the same motorcycle in Lincoln and Dawson Counties.

At approximately 12:45 p.m. Monday, a trooper observed a motorcycle speeding as it was traveling eastbound on Interstate 80 near North Platte. The rider refused to stop and fled southbound on Highway 83 in excess of 100 miles per hour. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

The motorcycle eventually turned around and began traveling northbound into North Platte, at which time the trooper discontinued the pursuit out of concern for public safety.

Approximately 45 minutes later, the North Platte Police Department received a report that the same motorcycle was traveling eastbound on Highway 30. Troopers were able to locate the motorcycle near Brady and attempted another traffic stop. The rider again refused to stop and fled eastbound at a high rate of speed.

The motorcycle eventually cut in front of a moving train and came to a stop in a pasture near Gothenburg. As troopers approached the area, a citizen parked a farm implement in an area to block the entrance from the field back onto the highway. Troopers were then able to take the motorcycle rider into custody without further incident.
With a national shortage in blood, donation drives are ramping up and Mayo Clinic Health System is partaking in the action, with its upcoming three-day event honoring a community member with multiple myeloma.

Tara Molling was diagnosed with the cancer in May 2021, and during her treatment relied on blood transfusions. This week, she will undergo a stem cell transplant, and may again be the beneficiary of donor blood.

Mayo staff and community members are invited to donate blood to aid patients like Tara this week and next. Turn a new leaf, fall into giving blood drives will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Friday in the Marycrest Auditorium at Mayo, 700 West Ave. A third drive will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 2, at Mayo in Onalaska, 191 Theater Road. Blood draws will be conducted by Versiti, and all donations will stay local to benefit area patients.

There is a need, and there are so many people willing  they just have to be asked and have a little push, Tara says.

Taras diagnosis of multiple myeloma, a cancer that forms in the plasma cells, was a shock, with the hardest part, she says, bringing her teen daughter and son into the room to tell them she had cancer. At diagnosis, Taras hemoglobin was six grams per deciliter  for woman, a normal number is 12 to 15.5 grams  and she required two units of donor blood.

Tara has been undergoing her cancer treatment at Mayo in La Crosse, and, following collection of her own blood-forming stem cells last week was scheduled to undergo an autologous stem cell transplant at Mayo in Rochester on Oct. 26. If her hemoglobin drops below seven, she will require additional donor blood.

During her cancer journey, people have asked the Molling family how they can help. While the prayers are greatly appreciated, Tara wanted any assistance to go towards patients community wide.

There is a need for blood. Ive benefited from it, and there are many, many others that need blood, Tara says. Thats why Im hoping to get people out to help many, not just me.

Tara says she has been overwhelmed by the support from friends, family, neighbors and healthcare staff during the last six months, and is hopeful for a large turnout at the blood drives.

Between the letters, the cards, the gifts, prayers  I just feel so very blessed. Im so very thankful, Tara says.

For those newly diagnosed or coping with cancer themselves, Tara urges seeking out support and asking questions.

Tara, an executive oncology specialist at Janssen Biotech, and her husband, Mayo family medicine physician Dr. Paul Molling, both work in health but she recognizes not everyone is so fortunate to have knowledge of and access to medical terminology and information.

Find people who understand the verbage or a patient advocate who can help explain what they are telling you and absorb it all and put all the pieces together (so you can) give it a great fight, Tara says.

To register for the Turn a new leaf, fall into giving blood drives, call 877-232-4376 or visit https://bit.ly/mayooct28 for a Thursday appointment; https://bit.ly/mayooct29 for a Friday appointment; or https://bit.ly/mayonov2 for a Tuesday appointment.

Emily Pyrek can be reached at emily.pyrek@lee.net.

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U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) joined Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and several of their Republican colleagues to introduce the "Keeping Our Covid-19 Heroes Employed Act" to save essential workers from being fired due to President Bidens sweeping vaccine mandate.

In August 2021, the U.S. economy had 10.4 million open jobs. As shortages hit stores and communities struggle to recover, the Biden administration announced his plan.

Joining Johnson and Blackburn in introducing the legislation were Sens. Jim Inhofe (R-Okla.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.).

Well before President Bidens ill-advised and divisive vaccine mandate, I had been hearing from doctors, nurses, first responders, and others facing the life-altering decision of having to choose between losing their job or being coerced into taking a vaccine. We are already suffering severe worker shortages throughout our economy, especially in health care. Vaccine mandates will increase these shortages and degrade our health care system. I support any effort, and am happy to co-sponsor Sen. Blackburns Keeping Our COVID-19 Heroes Employed Act, to mitigate the very real harms these mandates are causing and will continue to cause. No one should be pressured, coerced, or fear reprisal for refusing treatment, especially essential workers, said Johnson.

Our essential workers are true heroes, said Blackburn. For over 18 months, essential workers showed up to serve and protect their communities. Businesses across the country are desperate for workers and we are in the midst of a supply chain crisis. There are more than 10.4 million open jobs across the country, and now President Biden wants to fire even more workers. Getting vaccinated is a choice that should be made between a patient and their doctor. No one should be forced by Joe Biden to be fired or get jabbed.

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INDEPENDENCE, Wis.  A labor of love; its great to see that, said Randy Romanski, secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection; he was describing the work Wisconsin farmers do. They live here. They understand their important role.

In celebration of National Farmers Day, he stopped at the farm of Joe and Noel Bragger to learn about conservation efforts the Bragger family have made on their diversified operation. The farm tour started with a view of the Bragger goat prairie and an explanation of their newest project  4 acres of pheasant habitat.

Joe Bragger said if the habitat is improved, the creatures come. As an example he gave the year he grew canola; goldfinches arrived. When he grew flax, he increased the honeybee population.

Its not unique to me, he said. Farmers all over are doing this.

He pointed out the edges of his woodland where hes quit planting crops. Instead he leaves a grassy 30-foot buffer strip, allowing sunshine into the fields and increasing yields. It also keeps the woods from creeping into the cropland because it can be mowed. Hay is made on the buffers, although he said round bales arent always moved before fall.

Something else that was new for Bragger this summer was growing brown-mid-rib millet after removing a crop of forage rye. He was able to harvest two crops of millet, which is a warm-weather crop with excellent palatability.

Tim Miland is a resource scientist for the U.S. Department of Agricultures Natural Resource Conservation Service. After looking at Braggers ridge fields, he did a demonstration for Romanski using a rainfall simulator. With samples of silt loam  which is good soil but extremely erosive  Miland poured water over five trays of dirt. Each tray bottom was perforated, with a gallon jug underneath to catch any water that filtered through the soil. Each end of each tray had a funnel to divert run-off water to another gallon jug.

Five samples were used to simulate different conditions.

conventional tillage, no cover crop, corn-soybean

no-till with cover crop

forest

conventional tillage, spring

rotational grazing

The conventional-tillage samples showed distinct run-off with very little saturation.

After the demonstration each soil sample was tipped onto a tarp to show if the soil underneath the samples surface was still dry. The cover-crop, forest and rotational-grazing samples showed very little runoff of water, with most of the rainfall going into the soil. Miland explained the type of conservation works like a sponge for the water and the soil is porous, giving a place for water to go. Soil roots and good earthworm populations along with warmer soil temperatures make a soil that holds together yet crumbles apart. Bragger said he has seen this demonstration using different soils from other areas of the country and the results are the same.

Chemicals cause the most common soil disturbance and tillage is the second-largest culprit, Miland said. He suggested adding legumes and grasses for diversity to help soil hold together. The Natural Resource Conservation Service recommends four conservation points.

Minimize disturbance.

Use cover crops.

Maximize living roots.

Maintain residues.

Using those four principles, Bragger said with his 880 acres and a diversity of crops hes moving constantly. He pointed out farming isnt like it was in the past when corn and beans ruled. As for the future of agriculture, he sees an increase in the use of drones. And hes planning to plant hazelnuts on his farm.

There is so much to get excited about, he said.

At the end of the tour Romanski said, I learned a lot. We have hard-working innovative farmers. Every day should be National Farmers Day in our state.

He added that agriculture continues to be the bedrock of Wisconsins economy. No matter where people drive, they can see agricultural products being grown or being processed.

LeeAnne Bulman writes about agriculture from her farm overlooking the beautiful Danuser Valley on Wisconsins west coast. When not writing she helps her husband on their small grain and beef farm. Email genwim2@gmail.com to reach her.

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Crews with several neighboring agencies worked Tuesday to remove invasive carp from a segment of the Mississippi River in La Crosse, using a new innovative method that combines electricity and sound to attract the fish.

The removal process will continue throughout the week, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has teamed up with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Geological Survey and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, hoping to stay proactive in removing the invasive fish from the regions waters.

The crews are specifically working in Pool 8 of the Mississippi River, where some of the invasive carp have been located and 34 were removed in the spring. On Tuesday, the removal was done on a roughly 50-yard segment just off of Bayside Court, though none were caught that morning or on Monday, officials said.

The targeted carp are not native to the area and are believed to be migrating from the south, specifically from aquaculture ponds where flooding and high water events have allowed them to escape. From there, the fish have moved up the Mississippi River and into the region.

They outcompete our native species for food sources, said Rebecca Neeley with the USFWS, who described the carp as hungry and resilient creatures. They change the dynamics of the fisheries. If you look at areas where theyre more established and you look at the fish communities in those areas, theyve changed the fish communities.

According to the Wisconsin DNR, some of the invasive carp can consume 20% of their own body weight in food each day, and the fish can spawn multiple times each season.

In addition, the carp have the potential to be dangerous for boaters because of their jumping nature, but Neeley said the area hasnt seen a large enough population for this to be a concern quite yet.

The crews Tuesday used whats known as the Modified Unified Method or MUM. Its a technique that herds the fish into a central netting area so that they can be collected and processed in mass quantities.

The method originates from China, said Randy Hines with the USGS, where communities use the Unified Method of only a large net to collect mass amounts of fish to commercially harvest over a long period of time, with no help from electricity.

That strategy has now been modified for its use in the region, still using a series of large nets that help corral the fish to shore, but instead of allowing the collection to take place over a period of weeks or months, crews use a specially created noise to attract the carp to the netted area quickly.

Invasive carp have a very specific hearing range that is different and unique from most native fish, Hines said.

Specifically, block nets are put into place to form cells throughout the segment. Electrofishing boats and boats fixed with underwater speakers then help herd the fish out of these outer nets into the next cell until they are all concentrated into a central harvest net. A seine net is then dropped, a vertical net with weights at the bottom that essentially form a wall in the water. Crews then constrict this net slowly, bring all the fish inside to a central collection pool towards the shore.

The noise that helps herd the fish was specially crafted in a lab for the invasive carp species. Its not nearly as attractive to native fish species, Hines said, and it is also used as a deterrent to potentially drive the invasive carp away, and speakers emitting the sound have been placed at lock and dams in southern spots along the river.

Officials had an early indication on Tuesday that there were none of the invasive species of carp  silver, bighead, black and grass  because they didnt see any of their giveaway jumping as the net was pulled in tighter.

Crews knew to search in Pool 8 because of GPS tags attached to some of the invasive fish last fall that they have been tracking. One of those tags was picked up in the region on Monday, but officials said the fish may be moving in and out of the location.

Additionally, a hydroacoustic survey was done of the location the day before that gave an indication size and quantity of fish in the area, and the survey will be conducted after the MUM process as well.

Theyll search and net a total of eight locations in Pool 8 throughout the week, which spreads across La Crosse and Vernon counties.

The native fish that were captured in the net were measured, weighed and released back into the water. Crews handled a diverse group of the native fish, including large northern pikes, freshwater drums, mooneyes, bigmouth buffalo and a handful of the ancient paddlefish.

If an invasive carp was captured, crews would remove it from the water, weigh and measure it, and Neeleys team would then process it. They specifically would remove the fishs otolith, sometimes referred to as an ear stone, which can help understand the fish more.

You can look at it as kind of like rings on tree, Neeley said. You can actually get a determination of the age of the fish by looking at the rings of the otolith. So well age them, well get a sex of them and determine if theyre ready to spawn or not.

The partnership between the Wisconsin DNR and other agencies is part of a way to stay on top of the migration of the invasive fish, officials said.

The Mississippi River is a really important ecosystem and as a shared border water we have to partner together to manage and respond to emerging issues, said Carli Wagner with the Minnesota DNR.

Even though a lot of these Modified-Unified Methods are in the Wisconsin side of the river, Minnesota has just as much stake and were interested in just managing the ecosystem as a whole, not necessarily by borders, she said.

Crews said the section of the pool on Tuesday that was netted was about 30-40 feet deep and that conducting the removal during colder temperatures rather than over the summer is easier on the native species who get caught up in the process.

The Wisconsin DNR advises that invasive carp captures must be reported immediately, and encourages the fishing community should learn to identify the invasive carp, including at its minnow stage. If one is caught, photos can be sent directly to DNR Mississippi River Fisheries biologist Jordan Weeks at Jordan.Weeks@wisconsin.gov or 608-386-0970, and the fish should be put on ice and brought to the local DNR office.

Officials said there will be no impacts to commercial or recreational boat traffic on the main channel of the river while the removal process is underway.

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A 12-year-old girl died after crashing a UTV she was driving at a residence in the town of Leeds in Columbia County on Sunday night, Sheriff Roger Brandner reported.

Brandner said in a press release Monday that the initial 911 call at 6:08 p.m. went to the Dane County Sheriffs Office and the information was relayed to Columbia County. Responders were on scene by 6:19 p.m.

Initial information was provided that the operator was a 12-year-old female and that she was unresponsive, Brandner said. It was reported that the 12-year-old female was trapped under the UTV and that family members had already extricated her from the UTV.

Family members started performing CPR on the 12-year-old. Officers from Dane County, Columbia County and the DeForest Police Department were dispatched to the scene, along with fire and EMS personnel.

The girl was transported to University Hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Brandner said the name of the juvenile will not be released to the public.

This is a very tragic and traumatic accident and an extremely emotional time for family, friends, and the first responders who tried to save her life, Brandner said. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends that are mourning her death.

Brandner said the investigation was turned over to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
BUFFALO GROVE, Ill.  Kenosha County Sheriffs Deputy Terry Tifft and his K-9 Riggs received a heros welcome when the police dog was released from a veterinary hospital in Illinois Sunday.

Dozens of canine officers and their police dogs, along with Kenosha deputies, local first responders and family members turned out to honor the dog Kenosha County Sheriff David Beth called a hero for stopping an armed homicide suspect who was running toward Highway 50 Thursday in Bristol.

The man  33-year-old Allen Brown of Countryside, Ill.  shot Riggs in the head after the dog tackled Brown to the ground as he fled, authorities said. Brown was then shot and wounded by deputies.

The dog did his job, he saved my life and those of my fellow officers, Tifft said. The man the dog tackled is suspected of killing two people earlier that day.

Tifft was emotional when Riggs was walked out of the Veterinary Specialty Center in Buffalo Grove, Ill. Sunday, kneeling and hugging the 8-year-old German Shepherd who has been his partner since 2014.

Its very emotional, very emotional, I couldnt be happier right now, Tifft said before loading Riggs into his squad car to bring him back to Kenosha.

He was going to be followed on his trip by a procession of law enforcement vehicles, the deputy and his dog then honored again at a ceremony in a park before heading home. I cant believe how good he looks ... I thought it was bad, I thought I was going to lose him.

Chicago Police had asked sheriffs deputies to go to the Benson Corners Shell Station, 20000 75th St. in Bristol Thursday morning to search for a man suspected of killing two people and stealing one of the victims vehicles during a violent spree earlier the same day, according to Chicago media reports.

Three deputies, including Tifft, arrived at the station and the vehicle that had been stolen during the Chicago carjacking was in the station lot. They ordered Brown out of the vehicle. But, according to Beth, Brown got out of the car and began running toward Highway 50. Tifft released Riggs, who brought Brown to the ground just before he ran onto the road. Brown then shot the dog.

Very lucky dog

On Sunday, the healing bullet wound was visible in the center of Riggs forehead just above his eyes.

He is a very, very lucky dog, said veterinarian Herring. She said the bullet entered Riggs forehead then skirted through the muscle along his skull, exiting through the back of his head near the base of his skull. She said the path of the bullet was visible through the muscle, and there was some bruising to his brain, but said Harris escaped serious injury and should recover well.

Hes a very strong dog, Herring said.

Riggs was first treated by staff of Harris Veterinary Hospital in Paddock Lake, with staff riding in the Salem Lakes Fire Department ambulance that brought him to the hospital in Buffalo Grove. Paramedics Kyle Tobias and Eric Epstein, who were in the ambulance that transported the dog, came to see his release from the hospital.

Epstein said Riggs was unusually calm in the ambulance despite his injury. I was just trying to keep him calm, Epstein said, as a veterinary technician from Harris handled his care. He was very relaxed, and kind of acting like a regular dog (in the ambulance). I was petting him and he was leaning up against me.

Shooter was suspect in two killings

Brown was shot in the leg and abdomen. He had surgery at a local hospital and is expected to survive. He is likely to face felony charges in Kenosha for the shooting.

According to CBS Chicago, Brown is suspected of shooting and killing a 25-year-old man during an argument at a bus stop in Chicago at about 1 a.m. Thursday. He then ran from that shooting and carjacked a 41-year-old man, shooting that man in the chest and stealing his vehicle. The second victim died at an area hospital. Brown has two previous felony convictions, the most recent in 2009 for aggravated battery to a police officer.

On Sunday, many of the canine officers and police dogs that turned out to welcome Riggs as he left the hospital also train at Tops Kennel in Grayslake, Ill. The Kenosha County Sheriffs Department K-9 officers and their dogs regularly train at the kennel, which also provides the department their dogs.

Trainer Alex Rothacker was also at the veterinary hospital to greet Riggs and Tifft.

The dog did what he was supposed to do, he did his job, which is to protect his family  and for these dogs, all people are their family, Rothacker said. Emotionally, he is fine. They told me that when he got shot he never let go, which is remarkable  I pray that the sheriff lets him go back to work.

For now, though, Tifft said he was anxious to get Riggs home. We just want to go home and get some rest, he said.

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CAIRO (AP)  Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the prime minister, and thousands flooded the streets to protest the coup that threatened the countrys shaky progress toward democracy.
Ephrata National Bank continues to extend its branch network across Lancaster County, opening a community lending office in Elizabethtown on Monday and a full-service branch in Quarryville in February.

The Elizabethtown location at 222 S. Market St., in space previously occupied by Christian-based marriage counselors, will be the banks western-most office and its Quarryville location at 101 E. State St., previously a PNC branch, will be its southern-most office.

A spokesman for the $1.6 billion institution acknowledged Monday that Ephrata Nationals strategy runs counter to the trend of cutting branch numbers, both nationally and locally, as more customers bank online. But there are good reasons for that, the spokesman indicated.

Although much has been made of the decline in branch banking and the increased use of digital banking services as a result of COVID-19, we are still seeing a need for physical locations to enter new markets, said Craig Rodenberger, senior vice president and marketing officer.

Our research indicates that consumers still consider a physical location in proximity to them as an important factor in where they decide to bank, Rodenberger said. At the same time, branch transactions have recovered to near pre-pandemic volumes, he said.

With the additions, Ephrata National will have 13 full-service branches, two drive-thru-only locations and the one community lending office.

Quarryville, where the bank will staff a leased 3,000-square-foot office with five or six employees, is appealing on several levels, Rodenberger said.

Its a growing market with demographics similar to other markets where the bank has found success, he said. Its proximity to Chester County will give the bank a base from which it can grow its ag-industry business there. And for customers who prefer dealing with smaller banks, Ephrata National is the only institution in that market with less than $2 billion in assets, he said.

In Elizabethtown, Ephrata National opted to open a loan office with four or five employees focused on originating residential mortgages and commercial loans, rather than a full-service office that would do both lending and take deposits. Thats because the bank already is flush with deposits and wants to build loan volume, Rodenberger said.

Ephrata National would like to expand its physical presence into other parts of the county and into adjacent counties too, Rodenberger said.
A woman rescued a man whose East Lampeter Township home was destroyed in a fire Monday morning, according to the Lafayette Fire Company.

Firefighters were dispatched to a single-story home in the first block of Hickory Drive, a dead-end street off of Pitney Road, at 8:56 a.m., arriving to find oxygen tanks on fire in the living room and smoke spread throughout the home, said Fire Chief David Keens.

A man inside the home had called 911 to report the fire, but was unable to leave the residences front porch due to his limited mobility. Keens said the man's neighbor, Katrina Aviles, was driving up the street and saw smoke coming from the home.

Aviles ditched her vehicle and carried the man away from the blaze on her back.

Keens said the Lafayette Fire Company may present Aviles with a commendation for her efforts in saving the man.

"She basically facilitated this rescue," he said.

The man, who was described as elderly, was transported to a hospital to be treated for smoke inhalation. No one else was injured in the blaze.

Attempts to reach Aviles were not immediately successful.

Firefighters had the blaze under control by 9:22 a.m. Firefighters did not depart the scene until 11:36 a.m.

While not totally destroyed, the home is no longer habitable, the fire having caused an estimated $185,000 in property damage, Keens said.

It looked like it had sustained some pretty good fire damage, he said.

Keens said the property had already been condemned by township authorities by Monday afternoon.

The blaze began after the man's oxygen machine caught fire, though it was not clear how that happened, Keens said.

A state police fire marshal has been notified.
Attorneys for a disbarred Ephrata lawyer charged with driving to Washington, D.C., with guns, ammunition and a plan to kill Democratic U.S. senators want a federal judge to let him out of jail while he awaits trial.

A court filing earlier this month seeking Kenelm Shirks release suggests alcohol was partly to blame.

According to police and charging documents, Shirk, 72, had been arguing about the presidential election with his wife and left his home in Cornwall, Lebanon County, on Jan. 21  the day after President Joe Bidens inauguration. His wife sought an involuntary commitment and the police put out a bulletin.

Pennsylvania State Police arrested Shirk at a gas station near Shippensburg as he was on his way to Washington. Police said they found an AR-15 rifle, two handguns, ammunition, rope, gloves and about $5,000 in his Subaru Forester and briefcase.

Shortly after his arrest, Shirks attorney, John Abom, said that despite appearances, Shirk had no intention of killing anyone and wasnt a member of any group seeking to overthrow the government.

Shirk had not previously sought release; Hes been incarcerated since Jan. 22. Abom said Tuesday that a variety of factors prompted him to seek Shirks release now on conditions that would ensure his and the communitys safety pending trial.

Federal prosecutors oppose his release.

A psychologist who evaluated Shirk in April found him to be a low risk of harming himself or others and reasoned the alleged events leading to Kenelms arrest represent an isolated incident of behavior for Mr. Shirk made worse by drinking, according to the filing.

The request also laid out a half-dozen of Shirks health problems, including a heart condition, gastrointestinal bleeding and arthritis, and suggested he hasnt been getting adequate care while in jail.

Finally, the request noted that even if convicted, Shirk could potentially be sentenced to as few as 10 to 16 months in prison.

Federal Judge Jennifer Wilson of the Middle District of Pennsylvania scheduled a hearing on the release request for Friday. Shirks trial on one count of threatening to murder Democratic U.S. senators has been scheduled to begin Monday, but Abom said that wont happen because there are still pretrial issues to be resolved.

Shirk's former firm, Shirk Law Associates in Ephrata, had been the longtime solicitor for Akron Borough, but Akron dropped him shortly after his arrest. The state Supreme Court disbarred him in May.

Shirk comes from a family with a history of community service and political involvement. His father, K.L. Shirk, who died in 2006, was an attorney and long active in the countys Republican party, serving as chairman of the party from 1964-71. Shirks grandfather was Lancaster Countys district attorney.
A Lancaster Township man has been charged with more than a dozen felonies after repeatedly raping and assaulting two juvenile girls over the course of seven years, according to Lancaster city police.

Robert Harry Austin, 30, was charged with rape of a child, statutory sexual assault, two counts of involuntary deviate sexual intercourse with a child, two counts of unlawful contact with a minor, sexual assault, criminal solicitation, two counts of child pornography, two counts of indecent assault on a person less than 13 years of age, photographing child sex acts, corruption of minors and three related misdemeanor offenses.

Austin assaulted the girls in several locations in Lancaster city between 2013 and 2020, according to an affidavit of probable cause. Investigators became aware of the allegations in late August, after they were approached by the girls, who are now teenagers.

One of the girls told investigators the assaults started when she was as young as 6 years old and continued until she was a teenager, police said. On at least one occasion, police said Austin took a picture of one of the assaults.

The second girl told investigators Austin began fondling her when she was about 12 years old, on one occasion pulling down her pants and attempting to take a picture of her genitals, police said. Austin also asked the girl to send him nude pictures of herself when she was even younger, offering to send a nude picture of himself as well, police said.

Austin later spoke with the girls on social media in June, asking them to meet him in person, saying he aint here for any of that or the past and that  is it really that hard to believe in people changing? according to the affidavit. Austin repeatedly asked the girls to come meet him, writing that Im not here to do ANYTHING THAT HAPPENED BEFORE.. but ok sorry and that you can sit in the blue chair and leave the door open.

It is not clear if Austin has been arrested. A request for clarification from Lancaster city police was not immediately returned.

A preliminary hearing has not been scheduled.

Austin has previously pleaded guilty to two counts of terroristic threats and two counts of simple assault in 2016, to which he was sentenced to three years of probation, court records show.
EAST LAMPETER TWP. SUPERVISORS

The East Lampeter Township Board of Supervisors budget workshop will meet at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 2250 Old Philadelphia Pike. Public may attend via Zoom. More info: www.eastlampetertownship.org. Among the agenda items:

- What: 2022 Budget workshop.

- Next meeting: Monday, Nov. 15, at 7:30 p.m.

LANCASTER CITY COUNCIL

The Lancaster City Council will meet at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 26, in Council Chambers, City Hall Annex, 120 North Duke St. Among the agenda items:

- Report: Requested by Council, Central Market Trust annual report.

- Legislative agenda: (a) Legislative budget transfer; (b) Heritage Conservation District - consider the following applications and recommendations from the Historical Commission for improvements to properties within the Heritage Conservation District (1) Heather Hoffman, owner of 539 E. Orange St., proposes demolition of a brick garage at the rear of the parcel facing East Marion Street to create off-street parking space; (2) WY Enterprises, LLC, owner of 210 W. Grant St., propose installation of stacked shipping containers between existing buildings at 210 and 214 W. Grant St.; (c) ordinances for final passage - Administration Bill No. 21-2021, amending the Code of the City of Lancaster, Chapter 262, Streets and Sidewalks, and Chapter 285, Vehicles and Traffic; Administration Bill No. 22-2021, authorizing appropriation of American Rescue Plan Act funds for affordable housing projects.

LANCASTER CITY CRIZ

The Lancaster City CRIZ Authority Board of Directors will meet via Zoom at 4 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26. The public can join the Zoom Board meeting using the following link: https://zoom.us/j/92300657171; meeting ID: 92300657171. No password is required. More information available: www.cityoflancasterpa.com/boards-commissions-and-authorities/criz-authority/. Among the agenda items:

n Approval of June 22 and Aug. 3 board meeting minutes and approval of June through September 2021 financial reports, prepared by Simon Lever.

n New business: (a) Resolution No. 10-2021 approving request by Lancaster County Redevelopment Authority and owner of Clipper Magazine Stadium, for assistance for Capital improvements at the stadium; (b) COVID-19 grants close-out report.

LANCASTER COUNTY CTC JOINT OPERATING

The Lancaster County Career & Technology Center Joint Operating Committee will meet at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 28, at the Willow Street Campus, 1730 Hans Herr Dr., Willow Street. Among the agenda items:

- Committee meetings will be held prior to the JOC meeting. The finance committee meeting will be held by conference call on Wednesday, Oct. 27, at 2 p.m. Executive session will be held at 6:45 p.m. for personnel and contracts.

- Directors report: Committee minutes; local, state and federal projects; health and safety plan update; MOU; GAC meeting update; students of the month.

- Personnel committee: Recommendations for approval of resignations, appointments, and transfers; approval of column movement, mentor, job descriptions, FMLA leave, and permission to hire in absence of a November JOC meeting; approval of personnel committee report.

- Building and property committee: Approval of appointment of integrated pest management coordinator; updates on facility projects.

- Planning and development committee: Approval of calendar update and Mission/Vision with Why; informational items: enrollment 2021-22; articulation agreement; virtual tours; program review and planning; Root Cause Analysis update, APE Review update.

- Finance committee: Financial reports, permission to purchase/bid; approval of: adjunct instructor agreement; transfer to general fund, reconciliation of 2020-21 funds; permission to purchase and pay November expenses due to no November JOC meeting; addition of transgender benefits to medical iInsurance as recommended by Stoudt; change in transportation contractor.

- Policy Committee: First read for Policies 006, 903, 700, 701, 702, 703, 704, 705, 706, 706.1, 707.1, 708, 709, 711, 713.

- The next scheduled meeting of the Lancaster County Career & Technology Center Joint Operating Committee will be held Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. at the Willow Street campus.

LANCASTER COUNTY HOUSING

The Lancaster County Housing Authority will meet at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 28 Penn Square, 2nd floor, Suite 200. Public may attend via Zoom, email mjoyce@lchra.com. Among the agenda items:

- New business: (1) Resolution approving an amendment to a lease agreement with Penn Square Associates, LLC; (2) resolution adopting a schedule of meetings for 2022.

- Other business: The next meeting of the Board of the Lancaster County Housing Authority will be held Nov. 23 at approximately 4:30 p.m. via Zoom or at the offices of the Lancaster County Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, 28 Penn Square, Suite 200.

LANCASTER COUNTY LAND BANK

The Lancaster County Land Bank Authority will meet at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 28 Penn Square, 2nd floor, Suite 200. Public may attenda via Zoom, email mjoyce@lchra.com. Among the agenda items:

- New business: (1) Resolution approving submission of grant application to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agencys PHARE program to support housing rehabilitation efforts in Denver Borough; (2) resolution approving submission of grant application to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agencys PHARE program to support housing rehabilitation efforts in Manheim Borough; (3) resolution adopting schedule of meetings for 2022.

- Other business: The next meeting of the Board of the Lancaster County Land Bank Authority will be held Nov. 23 at 4 p.m. via Zoom or at the offices of Lancaster County Housing and Redevelopment Authorities, 28 Penn Square, 2nd floor, Suite 200.

LANCASTER COUNTY PLANNING

The Lancaster County Planning Commission will meet at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 25, at 150 N. Queen St., Rooms 102/104. Online at call.lifesizecloud.com/1696302; or call 312-584-2401, code 1696302#. Among the agenda items:

- Appointments, presentations, and reports: (a) Staff report: Scott Standish, executive director; (b) update on fall 2021 places 2040 workshops, Laura DeMatteo, senior Planner.

- Planning matters: (a) Summary, Dean Severson, director for planning services; (b) community planning reviews - (1) No. 1-52, Adamstown Borough, proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance to revise regulations governing accessory uses and structures; (2) No. 34-61, Lancaster Township and Lancaster city, proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance and the official zoning map to change the zoning classification of Lancaster County tax parcel ID NOS 340-31394-0-0000, 340-16454-0-0000 and a portion of parcel ID No. 337-13610-0-0000 from the R-1 Residential Zoning District to the Industrial Zoning District; to change the zoning classification of Lancaster County tax parcel ID No. 340-03297-0-0000 from R-3 Residential Zoning District to the Industrial Zoning District; to permit correctional facilities in the Industrial Zoning District; to establish minimum off-street parking requirements for correctional facilities; and to establish specific criteria and performance regulations governing the operation of correctional facilities; (c) subdivision and land development items - (1) No. 74-148-1, 1215 Reading Road, East Cocalico Township; (2) No. 76-125-4D, Westminster Presbyertian Church maintenance addition, Manheim Township; (3) No. 79-33-3, Dean M. Stoltzfus, Salisbury Township; (4) No. 85-172-1, Martin Motors, West Earl Township; (5) No. 86-53-2, Daryl M. and Andrea D. Martin (Brecknock Orchard), Brecknock Township; (6) No. 86-297-2, Richard L. and Denise M. Bruckhart, Rapho Township; (7) No. 90-302-2, Austin Dwight and Stacy Marie Zimmerman, Fulton Township; (8) No. 14-27-1, John R. Zimmerman Poultry Operation, Brecknock Township; (9) No. 21-38, Bruce L. and Lois M. Olney, Lancaster city; (10) No. 21-39, Walton Hill, Warwick Township.

- Next scheduled meeting: Monday, Nov. 8 at 2:30 p.m.

LANCASTER COUNTY REDEVELOPMENT

The Redevelopment Authority of the County of Lancaster will meet at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 26, at 28 Penn Square, Suite 200. Public may attend via Zoom, email mjoyce@lchra.com. Among the agenda items:

- New business: (1) Resolution authorizing a rental house rehabilitation program reservation of funds letter for 121-123 North Fifth St., Columbia; (2) resolution approving a grant application to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agencys PHARE program to support expansion of the existing Community Development Block Grant-funded home repair program; (3) resolution approving a grant application to the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agencys PHARE program to support expansion of the existing manufactured housing repair program; (4) resolution adopting a schedule of meeting for 2022; (5) resolution approving an amendment to a lease agreement with Penn Square Associates LLC; (6) resolution honoring Aimee Tyson.

- Other business: The next meeting of the Board of the Redevelopment Authority of the County of Lancaster will be held Nov. 23 immediately following the meeting of the Lancaster County Housing Authority which follows the 4 p.m. meeting of the Lancaster County Land Bank Authority.

LANCASTER TWP. ZONING

The Lancaster Township Zoning Hearing Board will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 26, at the townships municipal building, 1240 Maple St. For more information: www.lancastertownship.org. Among the agenda items:

- New business: ZHB2021-0005-1608 Marietta Ave. - special exception, variance, and appeal from zoning officer, continued from Aug. 24 meeting. Ecklin Properties, LLC has appealed an enforcement notice issued by the township dated May 21, 2021 for violation of Chapter 280-403.2.A. A decision for this appeal is to be provided at this meeting. The previously advertised special exception and variance which were part of this application have been withdrawn by the applicant in a letter dated Sept. 24, 2021.

- The next Lancaster Township Zoning Hearing Board meeting will be Nov. 23 at 7 p.m.

MANHEIM TWP. COMMISSIONERS

Manheim Township commissioners will meet at 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 25, at the Manheim Township Public Library, 595 Granite Run Drive. Remote access and info: manheimtwp.org. Among the agenda items:

- New business: (a) Consent agenda: (1) Parkside Reserve - Final Phase 1 subdivision/land development plan, Petersburg Road, zoned R-1, financial security reduction No. 1; (b) Resolutions - (1) Resolution 2021-54, appointing members to Stormwater Management Task Force; (2) Resolution 2021-55 - appointment of members to the Manheim Township Youth Council; (c) Ordinances - (1) Ordinance 2021-15, traffic ordinance (removed reserved parking zone - 1733 Windsor Ave and post reserved parking zone - 1115 New Holland Ave.); (2) Ordinance 2021-17 - regulating fireworks and pyrotechnics in Manheim Township; (d) motions/decisions; (e) acknowledgements - (1) proposed Ordinance 2021-19 - authorizing Manheim Township to enter into a memorandum of understanding regarding The Little Conestoga Creek Blue/Green Corridor Project; (2) engineering and traffic study (prohibit truck tractor, with or without trailer or semi-trailer over 11,000 lbs., in Beverly Estates); (f) other business/deliberations - (1) discussion, possible arbitration to recover unpaid service fees from Lancaster Township regarding the Police Service Agreement; (2) discussion, consider amending COVID-19 policies.

MOUNT JOY TWP. PLANNING

The Mount Joy Township Planning Commission will meet at 7 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 25, at 8853 Elizabethtown Road, Elizabethtown. More info: www.mtjioytwp.org. Among the agenda items:

- Consent calendar: (a) Approve and ratify the minutes of the Sept. 27 meeting; (b) authorize execution of the Request for Planning Waiver & Non-Building Declaration for the English/Spittal subdivision (21-11-LLCP) by the township manager/zoning officer.

- Old business: (a) Final subdivision, land development and lot add-on for Westbrooke IV- Phase 1 (No. 2016-01-FSDP).

- Initial view: (a) Preliminary plan for Raffensperger (No. 21-06-PLDP); (b) English/Spittal lot line change plan (No. 21-11-LLCP); (c) preliminary/final plan for Featherton Crossing Phase 5 (No. 21-12-FLDP).

- Other business: (a) 2022 proposed meeting schedule.

- The next regular meeting of the Mount Joy Township Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on Monday, Nov. 22, beginning at 7 p.m.
BERLIN (AP)  Angela Merkel took a step closer to political retirement Tuesday after receiving her formal dismissal certificate from the post of chancellor after 16 years in office, though she will lead a caretaker government until her successor is sworn in.

Hours earlier, Merkel attended the opening session of Germanys new parliament in Berlin, taking a seat in the VIP gallery as the recently elected lawmakers met for the first time. Merkel, who first won a seat in the Bundestag 31 years ago, did not run again in the Sept. 26 election.

Lawmakers elected Baerbal Bas, a member of the center-left Social Democratic Party, as speaker of the 736-member lower house. She succeeds Wolfgang Schaeuble, a 79-year-old conservative and former finance and interior minister, who was also the longest-serving member of the last parliament, having first been elected in 1972.

Bas, whose party narrowly beat Merkel's center-right Union bloc, has been a member of the Bundestag since 2009. The 53-year-old was a deputy leader of her partys parliamentary group in the last parliament and its spokesperson on health, education and research.

Bas told fellow lawmakers that she would work for fairer representation of women in parliament. She is only the third woman to head the Bundestag since its creation in 1949.

The responsibility has by far not been spread fairly on all shoulders, she said.

While the Bundestag has more female members following last month's election, women are still a long way from reaching parity in the national legislature. More than a third, or 34.7%, of the new lawmakers are women compared to 31.4% in the previous parliament, according to the German news agency dpa.

Bas emphasized that even though parliament does not yet reflect the full diversity of German society, the new Bundestag has become more diverse, with more immigrant lawmakers and younger members.

She vowed to protect the lower house against hatred and promised, I will defend democracy against its enemies.

The three parties that hope to form Germanys new government said last week they aim to have the countrys next chancellor in place in early December, but acknowledged that they face a complex task.

The Social Democrats, environmentalist Greens and pro-business Free Democrats opened formal coalition talks following a preliminary deal earlier this month, which set out their priorities but left many open questions.

German coalition talks are an elaborate affair, producing an agreement that sets out details of the governments program for its four-year term. They have tended to get longer over the years as the countrys political landscape has fragmented, meaning that elections rarely produce parliamentary majorities for traditional allies.

If the negotiations succeed, the new government will send Merkels center-right Union bloc into opposition after 16 years at the helm. Her likely successor would be Olaf Scholz of the Social Democrats, her vice chancellor and finance minister since 2018.

Handing Merkel her dismissal certificate, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier thanked her for steering the country through difficult times, particularly during her final four-year term. He cited the coronavirus pandemic, Britain's departure from the European Union and a U.S. government under President Donald Trump that he said "had little to no interest in the international order and trans-Atlantic partnership.

Merkel last week received a warm farewell from fellow European Union leaders and former U.S. President Barack Obama. Her final weeks as caretaker include representing Germany as the G-20 meeting in Italy and next week's U.N. climate conference in Glasgow.



Follow APs coverage of Germanys transition to a new government at https://apnews.com/hub/germany-election
LAPD Investigates Alleged Sexual Assault at Hamilton High School

An investigation was continuing today into an alleged sexual assault of a female student in a boys bathroom at Hamilton High School in Los Angeles, possibly involving several male students. Several students told reporters the assault was captured on video that was posted on social media.

The Los Angeles Unified School District issued a statement saying, At Los Angeles Unified, the well-being and safety of our students and staff

is of paramount importance. An alleged incident occurred on the campus of Hamilton High School earlier this week potentially involving several students in the boys restroom.

The school administration immediately and proactively began coordinating with the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles Unified

School Police to investigate the issue. Our school crisis team was also activated and students were given an opportunity to speak to counselors about their concerns.

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At this point, this situation is an ongoing police investigation. As such, we are unable to comment further so as not to interfere with the

police investigation, as well as to respect the privacy rights of students. At Los Angeles Unified, we take all student matters very seriously, and uphold the privacy and confidentiality of all in our school communities.

The schools principal, Jennifer Baxter, notified parents about the alleged assault via voicemail, reiterating that counseling services have been

made available to students. She said police are investigating what she called an incident  involving several students in the boys restroom.

Students at the school in the 2900 block of South Robertson Boulevard told reporters the video depicts several male students surrounding and sexually assaulting a female student in the bathroom. The alleged assault is believed to have occurred last week. Fox11 reported the high school has hired two additional security aides and is allowing students to go to the restroom in pairs in the wake of the alleged assault.
Retired FBI Official Takes Job as Bus Driver during Shortage

Mike Mason was one of the nations highest-ranking FBI officials. Now he drives students to school in a yellow school bus each morning and afternoon.

It wasnt the career turn hed imagined for himself. He was once the executive assistant director of the bureau, responsible for overseeing all criminal investigations, among other duties. But in his retirement, he felt a pull to help when there was a shortage of school bus drivers.

For context, probably half of the FBIs operational resources fell under me, Mason, 63, said from his home in Midlothian, Va.

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Since late April, Mason has been working for Chesterfield County Public Schools as a bus driver. While it differs drastically from his previous profession, I feel the same sense of duty, he said.

Each morning at about 5:30 a.m., Mason carefully inspects his 24-foot-long bus _ examining the interior and exterior _ to ensure that its safe for students to ride. I get it ready to roll, he said. This is not hyperbole: Im smiling every day I start that bus up.

He collects nine students ages 10 to 18 and drops them off at the Faison Center in Richmond, which offers educational programs for autistic children.

Mason understands the struggle that students, particularly those with disabilities, have faced throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Its what ultimately spurred him to spring out of his short-lived retirement to drive a school bus.

The idea came to him in January this year, when he saw a local news story about the desperate need for school bus drivers.

Mason learned that the severe shortage has become a crisis in school districts across the country. Given that the average age of school bus drivers is considerably higher than the median age of U.S. workers, many drivers decided to retire when schools pivoted to remote learning, while others didnt want to risk possible infection by continuing to work when in-person classes resumed.

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In the wake of mass shortages, school districts have had little choice but to adopt creative solutions. Massachusetts has deployed the National Guard to fill the void, and Pennsylvania, South Carolina and Ohio could soon follow suit.

To attract prospective drivers, school bus companies have started proposing free training and sign-on bonuses, while numerous districts, including Baltimore City Public Schools, are offering to pay parents to transport their own children to school. In parts of the country, the scarcity is so dire that some students have been stranded without a ride to or from school.

Mason _ who retired from the FBI in 2007 and joined Verizon as chief security officer until he retired again in December 2020 _ wanted to lend a hand.

He was done with executive work, he decided, but I was ready to get back into doing something that would give my life a regular cadence. Plus, as a father of two adult sons, whom he called the most precious things in the world to me, Mason said he always wanted to do something with kids.

Mason grew up on the South Side of Chicago and was raised by a single father who was a truck driver for the board of education. Thats part of what makes me smile every morning as I crank this bus up, he said. Its the connection to my father.

In his youth, Mason bagged groceries, stocked shelves, pumped gas, washed cars and mowed lawns so that he could pay his way through college.

He graduated from Illinois Wesleyan University in 1980, then joined the Marine Corps, where he served for nearly five years before entering the FBI Academy in 1985. It was a long-held dream.

Mason had fantasized about being in the FBI from the time he was in the seventh grade. I wanted to be part of something that was bigger than me, he said. The reality exceeded anything I ever dreamed of. I loved every day of my FBI experience.

Mason recalls taping a wire to his body countless times and going undercover to bust local drug dealers in Hartford, Conn., where he was based for four years. To gain somebodys trust and confidence and be working against them was exciting, exhilarating, and scary at times, too, he said.

During the 23 years he spent in the FBI, I went from being a brand-new agent working on a variety of criminal cases, to being a supervisor, and then moving up through the ranks, he said. I remain one of the four most senior African Americans in the FBIs history, and Im very proud of that.

In 2003, he became head of the Washington Field Office. Then, as the executive assistant director responsible for criminal investigations, he oversaw 6,500 people in Washington and 56 field offices across the country. He also was responsible for the FBIs cyber investigations, its fleet of more than 100 aircraft, the elite hostage-rescue team and 59 FBI offices overseas.

In December 2007, Mason felt ready for a change. He joined Verizon in January 2008 to oversee the companys global security efforts.

There comes a time in any career where its time to turn the page, to do something different, he said. The thing I have loved most about all of my careers, including driving a school bus, is that they offer the opportunity to learn something new every day.

Despite Masons impressive resume, he wasnt qualified to become a school bus driver right off the bat. It took several weeks of training to get his commercial license.

Mason has been driving students to and from school since the spring, including during the summer. After he completed training, he was asked whether he would be willing to transport kids with special needs. He answered, Absolutely.

It has increased my capacity for empathy exponentially, Mason said. What Ive enjoyed most is making breakthroughs.

Particularly meaningful moments have included seeing a shy student smile for the first time, or beaming with pride as a child waved at him as he approached the school for pickup at 2:30 p.m. These kids are just like you and me. They want to self-actualize, they want to be the best they can be, Mason said.

Still, while driving a school bus has been profoundly rewarding for Mason, it hasnt come without challenges. Some days are a cacophony of noise and chaos, and I cant wait to turn the bus off, he said. But I never leave angry. Its another day, and another chance to try again.

Mason, who recently received his coronavirus booster shot, said he tries not to worry about the pandemic while driving the bus. He is taking all the necessary precautions to avoid getting infected, he said, and I am choosing not to live in some hermetically sealed jar.

More than anything, Mason is focused on the well-being of the students. When I get in that bus, I have to be on. I have to be paying attention to what Im doing, he said. I want parents to know that I care about their children.

Although there are few parallels between Masons former FBI position and his current job, I guess the similarity is, Im doing something I care about, he said. Half of loving your work is the attitude you bring to it.

Regardless of the challenges that come with the job, this is an experience that I will always remember and treasure, he said, adding that he is extremely grateful to be in a financial position to donate the vast majority of his salary to various organizations close to his heart, including A Call to Men, St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, and his alma mater, Illinois Wesleyan University.

According to a representative of Chesterfield County Public Schools, starting pay for bus drivers is $20.21 per hour, with bonuses of up to $3,000 this school year, along with other financial incentives.

Merv Daugherty, Chesterfield County Public Schools superintendent, emphasized the essential role of bus drivers _ whose job, he said, extends beyond providing transportation.

As the first and last school representatives that most students see each day, bus drivers have a great deal of influence on our students success, he said. Mike Mason is an outstanding representative of Chesterfield County school bus drivers, and we are very happy he is on our team.

He is a role model for our students, and for all of us, really, Daugherty continued.

Mason hopes his nonlinear career move will inspire others to recognize that important work comes in many forms, and whether youre an executive of a critical government body or a school bus driver, we all contribute stones to build the cathedral.

If youre looking for an easy job, dont be a school bus driver, Mason advised. But if youre looking for an important, fulfilling job that really matters _ and this job matters _ this could be for you.

After all, driving students to and from school, Mason said, is about far more than maneuvering a big yellow bus.

Im transporting Americas future, he said. What could be more important than that?
Three Bodies Found in Balboa Island Home

The bodies of two women and a man were found inside a Balboa Island home in Newport Beach today, and another man at the home was rushed to a hospital.

Officers were called at 8:23 a.m. to the home near Diamond Avenue and Bay Front Alley South, where they found the bodies, said Heather Rangel of the Newport Beach Police Department. Rangel did not know the condition of the man who survived. She had no other further details of what happened, but said, Theres no threat to the community.

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A group of health experts says older adults without heart disease should not take aspirin to prevent a heart attack or stroke.

The group says the risk of bleeding inside the body for people 60 years of age and older is greater than the protection from heart disease.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force released an early version of the new guidance recently. It is a government-appointed group of health experts on disease prevention.

In addition to advice for older adults, the group for the first time said there may be a small benefit for adults in their 40s who have no bleeding risks. The experts also said there is less clear evidence of a benefit for those in their 50s.

The groups guidelines are meant for people who are at higher risk of heart disease. This includes people with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, those who are highly overweight or who have conditions that increase their chances for a heart attack or stroke.

Anyone considering whether to start or stop the aspirin treatment should talk with a doctor first, the group also advised.

Aspirin use can cause serious harms, and risk increases with age, said John Wong, a group member and doctor at Tufts Medical Center in Boston.



Experts to make final decision

In 2016, the prevention experts had advised that a small amount of aspirin each day could help prevent a first heart attack or stroke. The new advice is in agreement with more recent guidelines from other medical groups.

Doctors have long advised small amounts of aspirin every day for many patients who already have had a heart attack or stroke. The groups guidance does not change that.

The new guidance was announced online to let the public comment on it until November 8. The group will study the comments and then make a final decision.

Wong said the guidelines are being updated because of new studies and reexamination of older research.

Possible side effects

Aspirin is best known as a medicine to reduce pain. But it also thins blood. This can reduce the chances for blood clots. But aspirin also has risks, even in small amounts. These include bleeding in the stomach or intestines and ulcers. Both conditions can be dangerous.

Dr. Lauren Block is a researcher at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research in Manhasset, New York. She said the guidance is important because so many adults take aspirin although they have never had a heart attack or stroke.

Block is not on the task force. However, she recently stopped treating a patient with aspirin because of the possible bad effects. She instead began treating the patient with a cholesterol-lowering drug known as a statin.

The patient is 70-year-old Richard Schrafel. He has high blood pressure and knows about his heart attack risks. Schrafel said he never had bad effects from aspirin. But he takes the new guidance seriously.

Sixty-three-year-old Rita Seefeldt also has high blood pressure. She took aspirin every day for about 10 years until her doctor told her to stop two years ago.

He said they changed their minds on that, remembered the retired elementary school teacher from Milwaukee. She said she understands that science develops over time.

Im Mario Ritter, Jr.

Lindsey Tanner reported this story for the Associated Press. Mario Ritter Jr. adapted it for VOA Learning English. Caty Weaver was the editor.

Quiz - Experts Change Advice for Preventing Heart Attacks with Aspirin Start the Quiz to find out Start Quiz

____________________________________________________

Words in This Story

stroke n. a serious sickness caused when a blood vessel in your brain suddenly breaks or is blocked

benefit n. a good or helpful result or effect

cholesterol n. a substance found in the bodies of people and animals

blood clot n. a mass of dried blood that sops the flow of blood in the body and that can cause serious health problems

ulcer n. a painful area inside or outside the body

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A former Facebook employee gave members of the United States Congress thousands of company documents. The documents show a company that recognizes the harm it is causing but does not want to find solutions.

The documents are being called The Facebook Papers.

Seventeen media organizations, including The Associated Press, worked together to be able to examine and report about the documents. A separate group of European news organizations gained access to the same set of documents. Members of both groups began publishing stories about the papers on October 25.

Facebook says it has good intentions  or aims and goals. But the documents show how the company has avoided or been slow to address the problems the social media company has often created.

Final responsibility for the company lies with company head Mark Zuckerberg. One former employee described him as having total control over the corporation. Facebook has around 3 billion users around the world.

Jennifer Grygiel is a communications professor with Syracuse University in New York. She has followed Facebook closely for years. She said, Ultimately, it rests with Mark and whatever his prerogative is  and it has always been to grow, to increase his power and his reach.

Zuckerberg owns the majority of the companys voting shares and controls its board of directors. Critics say he surrounds himself with executives that do not question his ideas.

Facebook is struggling to attract younger users in the United States and Europe. A November 2020 Facebook document said that young people see Facebook as a boring network with irrelevant content that brings little value to them.

Facebook worked to expand its number of users outside the U.S. and Western Europe. But as it grew, the company failed to deal with or even predict the effects of signing up millions of new users. For example, the company did not hire extra workers or create new systems to identify and limit the spread of hate speech and misinformation.

And in places like Afghanistan and Myanmar, extremist language has spread easily and successfully. In Myanmar, hate speech on Facebook has been connected to crimes carried out against the countrys Rohingya Muslim population. Facebook lacked workers who spoke the language to help limit such speech.

Facebook appears unwilling to prevent or even recognize the real-world damage its site can cause. Those harms include algorithms that push users into extremism, widespread misinformation, suicide among young people and more.

Efforts to help such problems often have been pushed to the side when solutions conflict with growth and profit.

The company continues to defend its choices instead of trying to fix problems. It denies that it has put money over peoples safety.

Facebook said in a statement last week, Yes, were a business and we make profit, but the idea that we do so at the expense of peoples safety or wellbeing misunderstands where our own commercial interests lie.

More former employees have come forward with their own criticism of Facebook, making matters worse for the company. Sophie Zhang, a former Facebook data scientist, said the social network ignores false accounts used to weaken foreign elections.

Zhang said the company has become less willing to answer employee criticism and in some cases cracks down upon it. Zhang was dismissed from Facebook in the fall of 2020.

One employee wrote on a company message board that many workers are angry, while at the same time, feeling powerless  about the current situation. The person wrote the message last year after Facebook decided to keep posts by former President Donald Trump that suggested Minneapolis protesters could be shot.

The Facebook Papers show how the company collected data on a number of problems on the social media site. For example, the company looked at how Facebook was used in the trafficking of workers in the Middle East. They also collected data on widespread vaccine misinformation that could have been easily slowed with small changes in how users see posts on their Facebook feed. But Facebook has done little to deal with the problems.

The company says it does not conduct research and then  ignore it if the findings are inconvenient for the company."

Frances Haugen is a former Facebook employee who spoke in front of the U.S. Senate this month. Through her lawyers, she has provided several news organizations access to the Facebook Papers.

Haugen told Congress that Facebooks products harm children, create division and weaken democracy. She said the company should declare moral bankruptcy" if it is to move forward and solve its problems.

Right now that does not seem likely. The company still says that it is good for the world, even as it makes decisions meant to grow profit.

Im Dan Novak.

And I'm Caty Weaver.

Barbara Ortutay reported this story for The Associated Press. Ashley Thompson was the editor.

__________________________________________

Words in This Story

prerogative  n. a right or privilege

irrelevant  adj. not important or relating to what is being discussed right now : not relevant

algorithm  n. a set of steps that are followed in order to solve a mathematical problem or to complete a computer process

profit  n. money that is made in a business, through investing, etc., after all the costs and expenses are paid : a financial gain

expense  n. the amount of money that is needed to pay for or buy something

crack down  phrasal v. a serious attempt to punish people for doing something that is not allowed : an increased effort to enforce a law or rule

posts  n. message on an online message board

inconvenient  adj. causing trouble or problems : not convenient

bankruptcy  n. a condition of financial failure caused by not having the money that you need to pay your debts
Japan's Princess Mako on Tuesday quietly married a commoner without traditional wedding celebrations. She said her marriage to her former university classmate, Kei Komuro, was a necessary choice to live while cherishing our hearts.

Komuro added, I love Mako. I live only once and I want to spend it with someone I love.

The marriage to Komuro cost Mako her royal position and title. She also received her husbands family name -- the first time she has had a family name. Most Japanese women must drop their own family name after marriage because of a law requiring only one family name for a married couple.

The couples marriage document made the union official on Tuesday morning, the Imperial Household Agency said. There were no royal marriage ceremonies for the couple.

The agency admitted that many Japanese have not welcomed their marriage.

Mako earlier refused to accept a 140 million yen -- about $1.23 million -- payment offered to her for leaving the imperial family. She is the first imperial family member since World War II to not receive the payment. She chose to not accept the payment because of criticism of the marriage.

Mako turned 30 years old three days before the marriage. She is a niece of Emperor Naruhito. She and Komuro attended school together at Tokyos International Christian University.

The couple announced in September 2017 that they planned to marry the following year. But two months after their announcement, the media began reporting about a financial dispute between Komuros mother and her former fiance. The main claimed Komuro and his mother had not repaid a debt of about $35,000.

The couples wedding was suspended.



On Tuesday morning, Mako left the palace wearing a light blue dress and holding flowers. She bowed outside the palace to her parents, Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, and hugged her sister Kako.

The couple did not answer questions at the news conference Tuesday. Mako had expressed unease about giving answers in person. Instead, they provided written answers to questions sent by the media ahead of time, including those about Komuros mothers financial issues.

Mako is recovering from what palace doctors described earlier this month as severe stress from continued media criticism.

We have been...saddened ... as false information has been taken as fact and that unfounded stories have spread, Mako said in a written answer to one of the questions.

Komuro, who is 30 years old, left for New York in 2018 to study law. He returned to Japan last month. His hair was tied back at the time. The look drew attention as a strong statement for someone marrying a princess in the traditional imperial family. It added to the medias criticism of him.

The couple will move together to New York to start a new life.

Many in Tokyo wished them good luck.

Congratulations, said office worker Yasuhiro Suzuki. I hope people in America will welcome them.

Speaking about her mental health issues, Mako noted that many people have difficulty and hurt feelings while trying to protect their hearts. She added that she hoped our society will be a place where more people can live and protect their hearts with the help of warm help and support from others.

Mako is not the only female royal whose mental health was affected by attacks from inside and outside the palace. Her grandmother, Empress Emerita Michiko, was the first commoner to marry into the Japanese imperial family. She collapsed and temporarily lost her voice in 1993 following continued negative media attention.

Empress Masako is a Harvard-educated former diplomat. She has had a mental condition for nearly 20 years in part because of criticism over not producing a boy who would become Emperor.

Some critics say Makos marriage brings attention to the difficulties faced by women in the Japanese imperial family.

Makos loss of her royal position comes from the Imperial House Law, which permits only male succession. Female imperial family members must leave if they marry commoners.

The male-only succession tradition leaves only Akishino and his son, Prince Hisahito, in line to take the place of Emperor Naruhito.

A group of government-appointed experts is discussing ways to create a different succession system. But conservatives still reject female succession and permitting women to be at the head of the imperial family.

Im John Russell.

And Im Ashley Thompson.

The Associated Press reported this story. Ashley Thompson adapted it for VOA Learning English, with additional materials from Reuters news agency. Hai Do was the editor.

_______________________________________________

Words in This Story

cherish - v. to feel or show great love for (someone or something)

royal - adj. of or relating to a king or queen

imperial - adj . of or relating to an empire or an emperor

bow - v. to bend forward at the neck or waist as a formal way of greeting someone or showing respect

hug - v. to put your arms around someone especially as a way of showing love or friendship

palace - n. the official home of a king, queen, president, etc.

stress - n.  a state of mental tension and worry caused by problems in your life, work, etc.

succession - n. the act of getting a title or right after the person who had that title or right before you has died or is no longer able or allowed to have it
KENOSHA, Wis.  Kyle Rittenhouse was acquitted of all charges Friday after testifying he acted in self-defense in the deadly Kenosha shootings that became a flashpoint in the debate over guns, vigilantism and racial injustice in the U.S.
For the last few weeks Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has been the focus of numerous stories in the national media. Why? First, Abbott has enacted several controversial and unpopular polices in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and local officials have attempted to ignore and circumvent the governors executive orders.

Second, Abbott, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson have become symbols of how the Republican Party has been hijacked by former President Donald Trump and his acolytes. Each of these Republican leaders stand by Trump and his Big Lie.

Its time to ask: What do we know about Abbott, DeSantis and Johnson  and how might that inform voter decisions in 2022 and 2024?

As a resident of Texas, allow me to offer some of the things we have learned about Abbott, all of which should be of concern to Republicans both inside and outside of Texas  including those who have acquiesced to the governor and failed to do the right thing by condemning the former president for spreading the Big Lie about the outcome of the 2020 election.

 Abbott is not a conservative; his actions on COVID show he has abandoned the conservative principle that the local officials, not the state government, should make decisions about how to respond to problems like COVID.
Tracy Morgan knows something about surviving adversity, and he puts that perspective on the screen as the fourth season of the poignant comedy opens, signifying a new start for his character of ex-con Tray Barker. In 2020s cliffhanger finale, Tray was savagely attacked, leaving him in a coma. As the new season begins, he awakens with a traumatic brain injury, not unlike one Morgan himself suffered in 2014 after a terrible tour-van accident. While Tray struggles to get back on his feet, he also has a personal reawakening and dedicates himself to giving back to his Brooklyn neighborhood. Tiffany Haddish is no longer around as his ex, Shay, but Tray gets a new female foil in DaVine Joy Randolph as an old acquaintance who, like Trey, resists the boroughs gentrification.
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In his opening statement, Schulenburg said on the day of the homicide Gaida asked Bruno to give him $2,500 so Gaida could buy a Jeep. Bruno declined and said Gaida could use Brunos van if he needed a vehicle.

Later, Gaida asked Bruno again about the Jeep, then waved some mail in Brunos face. Bruno turned back to the refrigerator, and Gaida, brandishing a knife, then said, Im going to kill you. Gaida thrust the knife at Bruno and stabbed him in the abdomen, but not deeply, Schulenburg said.

Bruno tried to run, Schulenburg said, tipping over kitchen and living room furniture to block Gaida, then came back to the kitchen and got a knife, which he used to stab Gaida.

Brown said Bruno later told police a lot about wires from some sort of radio device that Gaida had.

Mr. Bruno grew increasingly agitated about this and it eventually led to the stabbing, Brown said. Bruno also told police, Brown said, there were video cameras being put in peoples eyes, there were microchips that were going into your bloodstream that would cause things to happen  things that caused the police to have some pause about things that were being said but perhaps provided some context to how this all occurred when Kim Gaida walked into the house that day with some radio equipment.
Dane County Assistant District Attorney Tracy McMiller said in her opening statement that the woman, who struggles with alcoholism, was very intoxicated and had fallen at home. She said the woman was taken initially to St. Marys Hospital in Janesville but was transferred to Stoughton because Stoughton has better alcohol treatment capabilities  although the woman testified it was a different medical condition that mandated the transfer to Stoughton.

While the woman was belted to a gurney, she said, Ovadal began removing some EKG lead stickers that were still on her chest, then began fondling her breasts. The woman said he put his mouth on one of her breasts as well and then exposed himself to her, telling her not to tell anyone or he would lose his job.

Later, after police were called to Stoughton Hospital, swabs were taken from the womans breast, and Ovadals DNA was found in the sample, along with a compound left by human saliva, McMiller said.

During the incident, the woman testified, she was too scared to scream and admitted that at Stoughton she thanked the ambulance crew. But she said as soon as she was alone in her hospital room, she started crying an ugly cry, in which she could not catch her breath.
I firmly believe that this change to the (behavior education plan) is the right thing to do and at the same time Im hearing concern at the school level that, while this change is a good thing to do, were making it at a time when our schools are understaffed, Carusi said. At many schools, social workers and psychologists are filling in for other staff vacancies and they have less time to support students who may be facing trauma or otherwise might need help.

Local teachers union Madison Teachers Inc. is in favor of any decision that will keep students in classrooms, but union members also have concerns regarding the staffing issues Carusi mentioned, union president Mike Jones said.

The union is prepared to support the moratorium on suspensions at the elementary level provided the school district is prepared to provide the resources needed to support the needs of our young scholars, Jones said.

Board member Chris Gomez Schmidt also said she is in favor of the moratorium but mentioned staffing concerns as well. Board members Nicki Vander Meulen, Ananda Mirelli and Savion Castro spoke in favor of the moratorium, as did board president Ali Muldrow.
Another amendment would have cut eight police recruits for cost savings of $510,000 to be put toward CARES. It was unanimously rejected.

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway included funding in the budget for eight additional police officers to address the citys absorbing 90% of the town of Madisons land on Oct. 31, 2022.

Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes said if his department doesn't get those additional eight officers, the city won't be able to meet the public safety needs of the town of Madison.

"We have asked for eight officers, which is the minimum number of officers that we need," he said.

The third amendment, which was also unanimously rejected, would have eliminated a new $121,000 position for a "police reform and innovation director" to find projects and use data to improve the police department. Those funds would have also gone toward the CARES program, but it's unclear whether it would be for personnel or other expenses.

Madison Fire Chief Steven Davis, whose department oversees the CARES team, said it's "a little premature" to put more money into the program since it just started last month. He said he didn't ask the mayor for more funding for the program because he'll know better in a year what the initiative will need in terms of resources.
Federal voting rights guarantees are needed to counter this threat. But efforts by Democrats to pass such guarantees have been stymied both by moderate Democrats, most notably Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, and also by Republicans, who have stood in lockstep to protect red states rights to restrict the vote.

The latest version of the Freedom to Vote Act had been watered down to get Manchin on board. The bill would have made Election Day a national holiday, would have guaranteed access to early voting and mail-in voting and (in a concession to conservatives) would have required identification to vote. Those compromises were enough to get the support of moderate Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and he spent weeks trying to get some Republicans to join him.

But in the end, every single Republican senator spurned Manchins earnest (and, frankly, naive) overtures of bipartisanship, and opposed even these mild, common-sense reforms.

America voted for a Democratic Senate, albeit with a bare single-vote majority. But because of the filibuster, an archaic and nonsensical process found nowhere in the Constitution, the Republican minority can prevent the majority from protecting the rights of voters who, nationally, favor voting-rights reforms.
October is National Depression and Mental Health Screening Awareness Month. Since workplaces are where most of our time and energy are spent, employers have a huge responsibility when it comes to their employees health.

The extended isolation and uncertainty many of us experienced during the past 20-plus months has intensified mental health concerns across the nation. About 41% of adults reported symptoms of anxiety or depressive disorder during January 2021  up 30% from two years ago. That means nearly half of the U.S. population is struggling with mental illness.

People conceal mental health issues for a variety of reasons. The common reasons include:

Fear: Theyre afraid of what may arise once they begin seeing a medical professional.

Denial: They ignore it thinking the issue will resolve on its own.

Job aecurity: Theyre worried their employer will react with punitive or dismissive actions, rather than understanding and support.

Cost: Treatment is expensive, or they dont know where to access affordable care.

Lack of awareness: Theyre unaware theyre experiencing negative mental health symptoms.

Caring about the overall well-being of your employees not only demonstrates your integrity as a business owner, but it also benefits your bottom line. Research shows that nearly 86% of employees treated for depression reported increased productivity and improved work performance. To add even further perspective, the World Health Organization estimates depression and anxiety disorders costs the global economy $1 trillion per year in lost productivity.

Better Business Bureau recommends the following tips to help small businesses successfully instill a positive mental health culture for their team:

Proactive RemindersEmployees often arent aware when mental health benefits are available through their employer. And even when they are, individuals often need encouragement to take that first step. Whether extra coverage is included in their general health plan, or your office offers a confidential service that connects them to free/affordable therapists  send proactive reminders. A suggestion would be to send monthly self-care tips that highlight benefits available to employees.

Train your

management teamEquip office leaders with knowledge and training to help them navigate sensitive conversations. Encourage them to always ask their direct reports about morale and overall well-being. Building trust takes time, but the ultimate goal is for employees to feel comfortable enough to ask for help.

Work/life balanceProvide flexibility for employees to help manage and balance their time. Working long hours is often counterproductive. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance produces higher levels of efficiency, productivity, and motivation because it minimizes burnout. Be understanding of everyones personal situation and attempt to accommodate those needs. Offer flextime, hybrid work from home models, or even the 4/10 work schedule. Allowing employees to take a personal/mental health day or afternoon off occasionally, goes a long way.

Activities that

promote self careOften people dont practice acts of self-care because they dont have time, or they dont know where to start. Offer guided meditation sessions, quarterly massage days, yoga classes, team outings, and anything else that encourages people to take the time to nurture their wellbeing. Helping your employees build those habits will significantly improve morale and comradery.

For more tips on employee benefits visit trust-bbb.org.

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Whether you call it a job crunch, labor shortage or The Great Resignation, you cant ignore the trend: People are quitting their jobs en masse.

Recent numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate that 4.3 million Americans resigned in August, likely inspired by their padded savings accounts and lingering health worries amid the pandemic. There are 10.4 million job openings in the United States, meaning workers finally have the upper hand in the job market.

People are reprioritizing whats important to them and the social contract they have with their employer, says Sri Reddy, senior vice president in retirement and income solutions at Fidelity.

Its easy to get caught up in the fervor, but experts say not to forget that what you do now could impact your finances in the long run. Before you slam that strongly worded resignation letter down on your jerk of a boss desk, its crucial to consider the potential consequences for your retirement  even if thats still decades away.

Heres what to do.

Thinking about retirement, but not sure when's the right time? Talk to a professional today! A financial advisor can help you get your finances in order and plan for the future. Click on your state to get started.

Prepare to make the leap

Katherine Tierney, senior retirement strategist at Edward Jones, says you should know where youre going next before you quit your current gig. If youre changing companies, line up a new role. If youre starting your own business, have the funding, location and paperwork nailed down.

Then, review your finances to make sure you can financially support your next move, Tierney says. That includes continuing to save toward long-term goals like retirement during the transition. Any interruption in your retirement savings now could result in big losses later.

Ideally, you want to have an emergency fund stashed away with three to six months worth of essential expenses. (FYI: If The Great Resignation has you going freelance, you may want a years worth.) That way, if something disastrous happens, you wont have to tap into money youve earmarked for retirement.

Read the fine print

You probably enjoy several benefits in your current position  according to the BLS, two-thirds of private industry workers have access to employer-provided retirement plans. Alas, Reddy says, they may come with a catch.

If youve been contributing to your 401(k), for example, that money is yours. But if your employer has been matching those funds, its likely you dont 100% own them until a certain amount of time has passed. Companies often adhere to whats called a 401(k) vesting schedule as a way to entice employees to stick around longer. Look up those dates before you jump ship.

You want to be really careful because if youre within a few months here or there, you may be leaving thousands of dollars on the table you simply forgot about, Reddy adds.

Leaving a job sooner than expected can also affect other perks, like tuition reimbursement or student loan assistance. Check your work documents for payback clauses and talk to human resources about whether your departure means youll be on the hook for money the company previously gave you.

Looking forward to your retirement? Prepare the right way with a Roth account. Whether you're opening a Roth account for the first time or converting your IRA, get all the details now by clicking below.

Look beyond salary

Ross Cohen, a wealth advisor and certified financial planner with Bartlett Wealth Management, warns people not to get too starry-eyed over the salary associated with a new role. Consider basic factors like its location and remote work policy. Then scrutinize the entire compensation package, including its 401(k) offerings, profit-sharing plans and stock options.

Here, too, consider the time horizon. If youre only using the role as a stopover job, you might not be around long enough to actually reap the rewards.

Reddy says to pay close attention to health care benefits. Switching insurance providers might end up costing you, especially if you or a family member has a condition that requires access to certain doctors or a specific kind of treatment. In those cases, your base salary may not showcase what your costs are going to be, he adds.

Take care of your 401(k)

As youre wrapping up at a job, check on your 401(k). Take special care if youve borrowed against it.

Every 401(k) plan has its own policies, but if you leave [your job], a lot of those loans become due immediately, Reddy says. If you dont pay the money back, then the IRS considers the resulting offset a disbursement, which comes with a 1099-R, taxes and possibly a penalty, depending on your age.

Another consideration is your 401(k) balance. If its under $1,000, employers typically just mail you a check  which will trigger the tax consequence and penalty unless you roll it over into your new 401(k), if the plan sponsor allows, or into an individual retirement account (IRA) within 60 days.

Consolidating your retirement funds into one account can be helpful so you dont have these smaller accounts kind of lingering out there, Cohen says. It also may allow you to devise a more comprehensive approach and investing strategy.

Make sure that your 401(k) is where you want it to be. Get an Online Stockbroker like Stash to optimize your fund selection and meet your retirement goals.

Follow your bliss

Take the Great Resignation as a chance to make sure youre in a position that aligns with your passions. If nothing else, the more you like a job, the longer youll stay there  and the fewer retirement planning changes you have to navigate.

Tierney recommends running the numbers to make sure youre putting away enough to afford your (eventual) desired retirement lifestyle. If, in your new role, you have more income coming in, you may want to adjust your approach. Contribute more to your 401(k), sure, but also do some self-reflection: What gives you the most fulfillment? Is it family? Travel?

Switching jobs may provide an opportunity to retire earlier or do things in retirement you werent even considering before, Tierney adds.

Retire with Money

Retire With Money brings the latest retirement news, insights, and advice to your inbox. Elizabeth O'Brien has covered retirement for more than 10 years.

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The suspect in Monday afternoons shooting at Boise Towne Square mall is in critical condition after being shot by police, according to a news release.

The Boise Police Department said Monday evening that an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and an officer left the suspect hospitalized. The officer also was injured but has been treated and released, BPD said.

UPDATE: Police: 2 die, 4 injured in Idaho mall shooting A suspect is in custody after two people were killed and four injured  including a police officer  in a shooting at a shopping mall Monday in Boise, Idaho, police said.

Two people were killed and five were wounded in Mondays incident  with the officer and suspect among those five. The identities of the deceased and those injured have not been released. The Ada County Coroners Office said Monday that it had responded and planned to have more information Tuesday.

Police said in the news release that no additional information will be released by the department about the other victims who were treated at hospitals. We recognize the community has many questions and concerns. The Boise Police Department will work to make sure we get information out to the community as quickly as possible in conjunction with our investigators and prosecutors, Police Chief Ryan Lee said Monday.

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RUPERT  A Rupert man is charged with felony rape after police said he raped an 11-year-old girl who he had been abusing for five years.

Jeremy Lewis Dudley, 39, was arraigned Monday on the charge in Minidoka County Magistrate Court.

According to court records, police were called to the hospital on Oct. 22 for a child who had been sexually assaulted.

The mother and step-mother of the child told police that Dudley had raped the child and had last assaulted her at his home on Oct. 15. The mother said she had looked on the childs phone and found messages between Dudley and the girl.

A search warrant was issued for Dudleys home and four other minor children were found there. Police said the residence smelled of cat urine, there were video cameras in the childrens bedrooms and little food was in the refrigerator.

During the first visit, police were unable to search a locked gun safe, but they obtained a second search warrant and the combination to the lock.

When police returned they found a small blue zippered pouch that contained a vape pen and marijuana cartridges. The pouch had a phrase on it that said come back with a warrant.

A remote preliminary hearing is set for Nov. 3.

Rodriguez sentenced to life in prison for 1995 murder of Burley teen Gilberto Rodriguez says he is innocent and did not kill Regina Krieger. A judge just sentenced him to spend the rest of his life in jail for the murder.

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Family members have identified one of the shooting victims as a 26-year-old Boise Towne Square mall security guard named Jo Acker.

On Monday afternoon, a suspect who still has not been identified fired multiple shots at the mall. Police confirmed that two people died and four others were injured in the shooting. Officers later shot and wounded the suspect, who was in critical condition Monday night, according to the Boise Police Department.

I cant even put into words how completely devastated and shattered I am, Ackers sister, Shawna Lannigan, wrote on social media. Jo you were always kind and loving. You always had such an enormous heart of gold. I always felt like your keeper. I always wanted to protect you and you always wanted to protect others. You were and are and always will be a hero. I love you to the ends of this earth and beyond. I will miss you until we meet again!

Acker, a military veteran, identified as a transgender woman on Facebook. Some family members identified the victim as Joe or Joseph in online posts. Ackers social media profile asks that people (please) call me Jo.

Lannigan wrote that Acker was trying to stop an active shooter. The police said (Jo) saved people.

Both Lannigan and another sister, Tiffany Luna, paid tribute to Ackers life, with Luna calling the security guard a hero who will be greatly missed, and the type of person that always wanted to help people.

Because of (Jos) heroics many lives were saved, Luna wrote.

Acker joined the Army after high school, and was a forward artillery observer and a paratrooper charged with jumping out of planes and doing follow-up missions on the ground, according to Kevin Goncalves, who told the Idaho Statesman that he was stationed with Acker for two years in Florence, Italy. They also spent time in Latvia following Russias 2014 invasion of Ukraine, Goncalves said.

Goncalves described Acker as introverted, a lover of video games, an excellent runner and a caring person. He recalled the way Acker would help new recruits, even if they werent on the same team. Goncalves said he would not be surprised to hear that Acker risked injury or worse at the mall to protect others.

(Jo) always stuck up for people (when) others were being disrespected, Goncalves told the Statesman in a phone interview. Always stood up for the right thing, even if it brought trouble. That was always something I admired about Jo.

Another friend, Dominique Cairistiona, brought up similar sentiments.

She was always such an amazing and selfless person to all of us and put her problems aside to help anyone who needed it, Caitistiona told the Statesman in a message. ... She was absolutely adored by everyone who knew her  even if it was just for a second. Her heart was bigger than the sun.

Idaho View: Idaho was never immune to mass shootings. What will we do after Boise Towne Square? Opinion: ...it was easy to think that it couldnt happen here, that we were somehow immune from what was happening so often all around us. We were never immune. We were only lucky. This year, that luck did not hold.

Boise mall shooting suspect in critical condition after exchanging gunfire with police The Boise Police Department said Monday evening that an exchange of gunfire between the suspect and an officer left the suspect hospitalized.

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Q: Why does it stink so bad in Twin Falls every night? Its only at night, which is kinda interesting.

A: We didnt know how to answer this question because there are different odors in different parts of the community (even in the evenings), and most of them are not monitored by the city of Twin Falls, city spokesperson Josh Palmer said.

We have received odor complaints, but they are not always coming from the source that people believe, Palmer said. For example, we received an odor complaint a couple of years ago about the livestock commission, but the odor was actually a farmer fertilizing his field several miles to the east with a southeast wind.

Additionally, we have received complaints about the sugar company and found that it was another industrial user in the process of installing a pre-treatment facility, Palmer said. Our engineers asked if there was an area of town where it was detected, they could narrow the possible sources down. And the type of odor would be helpful. For example, ConAgras odors often smell like hash browns or fried potatoes while Amalgamated Sugar Company gives off an entirely different and more pungent odor.

The area in question is over by Harmon Park, southeast of Twin Falls.

Thats still really difficult to answer. Most of our complaints in that area are about the sugar factory, said Palmer.

We are currently short-staffed in our engineering department. The city engineering department is still unable to determine the specific odor based on the information provided. There are odors in Twin Falls, and some are more easily identifiable than others, said Palmer.

The engineering department typically asks residents for the following information when theyre investigating odors within the city limits: Name, phone number, location, date and time of odor and a description.

A description of the odor is very important to help identify or eliminate a possible source. The standard list of odor types include:

Fragrant/Fruity/Sweet

Pungent/Rancid

Putrid/Dead Animal

Fecal/Sewer

Fishy/Ammonia

Earthy/Musty/Moldy

Pine/Lemon

Chemical/Solvent

Medicinal/Disinfectant

Sulfur/Cabbage/Garlic

Other helpful info includes:

Whats the intensity of the odor?

Barely able to smell it.

Weak or mild  Odors are present, but not overly annoying.

Moderate/Annoying  Being outdoors was less enjoyable, but still able to conduct activities.

Strong  Ceased outdoor activities due to the smell.

Very Strong  Odor caused nausea or gag reflex.

How long did you notice the odor?

What was the temperature?

From what direction was the wind blowing?

We thought this might be a good teaching moment to help residents understand the information we need to identify sources of odor, Palmer said. Again, many odors may come from agricultural or industrial work outside the Twin Falls city limits, as we are an agricultural region.

Many residents call the Twin Falls office of the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality DEQ, which investigates odors, Palmer said.

The Department of Environmental Quality would not comment.

Have a question? Just ask and well find an answer for you. Email your question to Kimberly Williams Brackett at timesnewscuriousmind@gmail.com with Curious Mind in the subject line.

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BOISE  Following a nearly two-week planned break, Idahos bipartisan redistricting commission returns to the Statehouse in Boise this week to get back to work on redrawing the states political boundaries.

The six commissioners meet at 10 a.m. Wednesday and have meetings planned for Thursday and Friday as well.

Commissioners proposed rough drafts of working maps in September before embarking on a tour of public hearings across the state.

Commissions havent proposed any new maps since the three originals came out Sept. 10, but they hope to have a productive week and release news maps this week.

Now the commission has really reached a critical stage, and its time to reconvene and continue with our thoughtful conversations and produce two maps, legislative and congressional, (this) week, commissioner Amber Pence said in a telephone interview.

The commission did a great job of traveling the state and hearing informative feedback from Idahoans, Pence added. As we traveled, and throughout this break, weve really had time to reflect back on that feedback.

Commissioner Nels Mitchell agreed. He said the purpose of the original maps was to give Idahoans something initially to focus on and provide feedback on during the public hearings.

Now, its time to work on a more serious proposal.

What were hoping to do is put out a revised version of the legislative map L01 with revisions and the same thing with the congressional map, so people will have another opportunity to look at what were doing before we finalize our decision, Mitchell said in a telephone interview. But the window is closing on our time, and we have less than six weeks to get our work done.

Redistricting takes place every 10 years and is the process of using new census data to redraw Idahos two congressional districts and 35 legislative districts. The process is required under the U.S. Constitution and the Idaho Constitution to assure political representation is as equal as possible.

Idaho was the second-fastest growing state in the country over the past decade, according to the 2020 census. However, the growth was divided and uneven, which is why the states political boundaries are being tossed out and redrawn.

At this point, commissioners are nearly two-thirds of the way into the process. They convened Sept. 1 and have 90 days  until Nov. 30  to approve their two maps and submit the redistricting process to the state.

It takes at least four out of six commissioners to approve a map.

Redistricting is a complicated process because of the law and court rulings that guide the process. For instance, commissioners know they must split the states 44 counties into 35 legislative districts. But they have to do that by splitting as few counties as possible and still keeping the population of districts nearly equal.

The commissions first legislative map splits eight counties. But members of the public have submitted maps splitting just seven counties, so commissioners may need to produce a more finely tuned map.

Idaho is fortunate we have a good statute and what the statute does is it sets up the criteria we are supposed to consider and focus on but it also tells us some things we are not supposed to focus on, Mitchell said. One thing we are not supposed to focus on is where incumbents might live and were also not supposed to divide counties to protect political parties.

Commission co-chairman Bart Davis has also stressed the importance of pushing politics aside.

Lets not let external political pressure become a wedge in the relationship we are trying to maintain in finding this statewide solution, Davis told the other commissioners earlier this month.

So far Pence said shes been impressed by the commissions ability to keep things from getting too political.

I thought it would be more political but its not, its really based on numbers and math and trying to make it work, Pence said. I really went into thinking the feedback we got might be more political, but it really wasnt. Its more about the geography of Idaho and the lay of land or communities of interest.

Each of the commissions meetings is streamed live online for free using Idaho Public Telveisions Idaho in Session service. The commissions proposed maps, as well as more than 50 maps submitted by the public, are available to view under the maps tab on the commissions website.

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Editors note: Candidates running for Twin Falls City Council will appear in Thursdays Times-News and at Magicvalley.com.

TWIN FALLS  More than two-thirds of the candidates running for positions in city government and on school boards in Twin Falls County will be unopposed on Nov. 2. The following candidates are running in Buhl, Filer, Hollister, Castleford:

Buhl City Council (4-year term; Pick 2)

Incumbent Michael Higbee, 39, has served on the Buhl City Council for 10 years. A pharmacist by trade, Higbee says community service is important.

I think its important not to sit around and complain about things, he said, but, instead, we need to find a solution.

Higbee was first appointed to fill an open seat on the city council.

Weve been working hard on community improvement grants and planning for future growth, he said. The city has only a few undeveloped lots, so we will need to annex land into the city. We are concentrating on doing it responsibly and wisely.

Higbee is active in the Buhl Chamber of Commerce, the Rotary Club of Buhl, and various youth programs.

Amanda Hawkins, 37, a lifelong resident of Buhl, is also running for city council.

Im a conservative Republican and a Christian, but I dont have a huge political agenda, Hawkins said. I thought it would be good for people my age to get involved.

Her husband, Rusty, has been on the Buhl Police force for 15 years.

My main goal is to serve my community, she said. Hawkins and her husband have three children.

Taylor Morse, 36, is a newcomer to the political scene.

Im a political junkie on the national level, Morse said. Thats the main reason I wanted to dive in. I think its important to start locally.

Morse lived in the area as a child, then moved back to Buhl in 2005 and now works for Riverence  formerly Clear Springs Foods. He said Buhl struggles with how to handle new growth in the area.

Im all for a town growing, but not growing without a plan, he said.

Filer City Council (Two-year term) Pick 1

Tracey Daluiso, 50, runs a small dessert food truck and bakery delivery service called Dazipop Cupcakes. A Canadian native, Daluiso recently became a U.S. citizen, with the intent to be as involved as possible in her community.

I recently joined the Filer Events Committee in an effort to get involved with celebrations and events in our area, she said.  I believe that community spirit equals community pride.

Growth is inevitable, Daluiso said.

Filer is growing whether we want it to or not  its already happening  but it doesnt have to lose its charm with that growth, she said. If I get elected, I would not want to change that. I would just want to see it shine a little brighter.

Candidates Desiree Romano and Hailey Wadsworth could not be reached for comments.

Hollister Mayor

Audrey Gonzalez, 26, has lived in the Hollister area for 13 years. She says she has local political knowledge and county job experience.

I want to be mayor because I know that I would do a great job for the people of Hollister and to make the city the best that it can be, Gonzalez said. Great cities thrive on honesty and I believe that Hollister needs more communication between the people and the city council.

What issue is most important to you: Great cities thrive on honesty and I believe that Hollister needs more communication between the people and the city council.

Robyn Grover could not be reached for comment.

Hollister City Council (Four-year term) Pick 1

James E. LaRue and Jacqueline Nieto could not be reached for comment.

Rock Creek Fire (District 1)

Incumbent Doug Fisher, 71, has been on the fire districts Board of Commissioners nearly from the beginning.

I acted as an alternate to a commissioner when the district started in the early 1990s, Fisher told the Times-News. The district covers the Murtaugh, Hansen and Kimberly areas in the east end of Twin Falls County. Fisher is running for the Kimberly seat.

He says to be a fire district commissioner, one must know three things: the people in the community, the people who work for you, and how to put out a fire.

Over the past three decades, the district has been unsuccessful in increasing property taxes to fund the fire station. The district now wants to pass a one-time fire station impact fee on new construction.

We think growth should pay for growth, Fisher said.

Marshall Crosby Bishop could not be reached for comment.

Rock Creek Fire (District 3)

Incumbent Brad Perkins, 60, is running unopposed as a write-in candidate for the Murtaugh seat on the fire districts Board of Commissioners. Although the race is uncontested, voters must write in Perkins name for their vote to be counted.

Buhl School District (Zone 1)

Paul Pettit and Adrian Preader could not be reached for comment.

Buhl School District (Zone 2)

Les Harper and Melissa J. Kippes could not be reached for comment.

Buhl School District levy

The school district is asking voters to approve a levy to spend an additional $400,000 each year for two years to maintain current programs.

This is a continuation of the levies that have been passed in previous years, Superintendant David Carson told the Times-News.

Filer School District (Zone 5)

Jenni Lanting, 40, is a veterinarian at Kimberly Veterinary Hospital. Lanting was born and raised in Twin Falls and moved to Hollister to raise her two children on her husbands familys ranch.

I would like to continue to be involved in kids education, she said, and I look forward to the school board having a voice from a rural community.

Lanting said she will work to maximize students education while responsibly using all available resources.

D. Greg Beal could not be reached for comment.

Other races

Candidates in the following races are uncontested and will not appear on the ballot:

West End Cemetery (District 3): Jacqueline Frey

Buhl Mayor: Pamela McClain

Castleford Mayor: Dan Howard

Castleford City Council (Four-year terms): Cliff Lockhart and Roxanne Stiegemeier

Castleford City Council (Two-year term): No filing

Filer Mayor: Bob Templeman

Filer City Council (Four-year terms): Joe Durham and Samuel Callen

Hansen City Council (Four-year terms): Tony Bohrn and Veronica Rodriguez

Hansen City Council (Two-year term): No filing

Kimberly City Council (Four-year terms): Nancy Duncan and Robert B. Tomlinson

Murtaugh City Council (Four-year terms): Humberto Chavez Jr. and Christina Andersen

Buhl Fire (District 1): Glenn Van Patten

Buhl Fire (District 2): Neal D. Gier

Castleford Fire (District 1): Troy Schlund

Castleford Fire (District 2): Lonny Zimmers

Filer Fire (District 3): Blayne D. Wright

Salmon Tract Fire (District 1): Todd Lanting

Salmon Tract Fire (District 2): Noelle Stebbins

Twin Falls Fire (District 2): James M. Olson

Twin Falls Fire (District 3): Jim Kuykendall

Castleford Recreation (District 1): Justin Clark

Castleford Recreation (District 2): No filing

Filer Recreation (District 2): No filing

Filer Recreation (District 3): No filing

Buhl School District (Zone 5): Jennie Ridley

Castleford School District (Zone 4): Charlene Davis

Castleford School District (Zone 5): Kimberly A. Taylor

Filer School District (Zone 2): Ryan Gurney

Filer School District (Zone 3): Bill Deetz

Hagerman School District (Zone 4): Bryan Whitmarsh

Hansen School District (Zone 1): Ramiro Hernandez

Hansen School District (Zone 4): Krystal Ray

Hansen School District (Zone 5): Dave Bjorneberg

Kimberly School District (Zone 2): Zachary T. Kelsey

Kimberly School District (Zone 3): Rex Ward

Murtaugh School District (Zone 1): Matt Stanger

Murtaugh School District (Zone 2): Eric Andersen

Murtaugh School District (Zone 4): Dane Roseborough

Twin Falls School District (Zone 1): Eric M. Smallwood

Twin Falls School District (Zone 3): Jayson E. Lloyd

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Idaho has had two mass shootings in five months. The latest happened here, and it has taken two lives from us. America has faced a rising tide of gun violence and mass shootings. Even the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought life to a halt, did not stop the rise. Until last year, Idaho was one of the few states in the nation that had not had a modern mass shooting, at least according to most sources. So it was easy to think that it couldnt happen here, that we were somehow immune from what was happening so often all around us.

We were never immune. We were only lucky. This year, that luck did not hold.

Three were injured at the mass shooting at Rigby Middle School in May. Another student at the same middle school was arrested with a gun in September. Now, according to current reports, four people, including a police officer, have been wounded in the mass shooting at the Boise Towne Square Mall. Two others died. Whether or not these incidents met the technical definition of a mass shooting, they certainly felt like mass shootings. Do we need to wait for an incident that does meet the definition before we act? The victims today are not only those who were murdered and wounded. There are dozens of people who huddled, terrified, in stores, hoping the shooter wouldnt find them. And all of their friends and relatives, wondering whether the text messages they were receiving now would be the last they would hear from their loved ones.

We always thought we were safe in Idaho, that something like that couldnt happen here. Mondays shooting at Boise Towne Square shattered our illusions of safety, that we were somehow immune to problems that happen only in those other places. But really, it was only a matter of time. With gun violence and mass shootings in our country at crisis levels, it was bound to happen here at some point. This was just our turn. Tonight is for mourning. Tomorrow, we need to figure out what to do about this. We cannot allow this to keep happening.

Statesman editorials are the unsigned opinion expressing the consensus of the Idaho Statesmans editorial board. Board members are opinion editor Scott McIntosh, opinion writer Bryan Clark, editor Chadd Cripe, newsroom editors Dana Oland and Jim Keyser and community members J.J. Saldana and Christy Perry.

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In a recent interview with writer Chuck Malloy, newly-announced congressional candidate Bryan Smith makes what sounds like a faultlessly logical strategic point about the politics of running against incumbent Republican Mike Simpson:

He is the poster child of a Washington, D.C., insider.

His suggestion is that long-time politicians arent exactly in great favor among the Idaho rank and file.

Ask the opinion of Idahoans out on the street, and Smiths point seems very hard to argue with.

Smith might have run for Congress once before (in 2014, losing to Simpson), but he is clearly running from the outside. Simpson by contrast has held the U.S. House seat from Idahos second district since 1998, nearly a quarter-century and second-longest in the House of any Idahoan. Fellow Republican Burton French served in the House for 26 years early in the states history, so Simpson is nearing the all-time record. Simpson often has been close to Republican floor leadership (sometimes more than others, as leadership teams change), but he certainly is well established in the chamber. And not only that: He previously was a state representative from the Blackfoot area for 14 years, and speaker of the Idaho House for six of those years. He has spent a long time in the upper reaches of Idaho political office.

He seems like a good exemplar of a career politician, and how many in Idaho say they like career politicians? Candidates and activists never seem to go wrong trashing them.

This is more than just speculation or anecdotal analysis.

In 1994 Idaho voters passed a term limits initiative with a hefty 59.3 percent of the vote. No votes theyve cast since then seem to indicate a change of heart; it was even sustained in other votes.

That term limit law isnt on the books today, however. In 2002, the Idaho Legislature voted to repeal term limits, and it was so determined that it did so overriding a veto from Governor Dirk Kempthorne, who said he thought the voters decision should be respected. A national leader of a term limits organization called the legislatures action a slap in the face to all Idaho voters. The arrogance of the Legislature to repeal an issue that has been supported by four separate votes is unconscionable.

Maybe, in another time, a lot of Idaho legislators would have paid a price at the polls for what they did. In fact, however, they did not. Scarcely any of the anti-term limits legislators were even singed at the ballot box.

Theres more evidence to consider here, too: The longevity of Idahos members of Congress in recent years. Senior Senator Mike Crapo will be, at the end of next year, a member of Congress for 30 years (24 of those in the Senate), plus a substantial run in the state Senate before that. (He is up for re-election next year, and seems not to be at risk, either in the primary or general election.) Senator Jim Risch will have been in the Senate for 14 years, after a state government electoral career reaching back to the mid-70s. Nearly all of the elected members of Congress in recent decades (the main exceptions being two Democrats running in rough years) who have left those posts, departed voluntarily either to run for something else or to retire.

Theres little recent history of Idaho voters throwing out members of Congress because of length of service.

The conclusion seems to be that they dont like long-time politicians in principle, but their own guys, people they know, are okay. Or something like that.

This isnt Smiths only argument against Simpson, of course; he has various policy and philosophical arguments with him as well. And beyond that: They are significant players of distinct wings of the states Republican party.

But to a great degree, hes running with what many Idahoans say they want, but what in practice they havent been voting for: Regular turnover in their elected officials.

An update from last week: Some of the names listed in last weeks column, noting the members of a Boise coffee group, were misspelled. (No, I wont try to excuse it by there being no formal list to check them against). Be it known that proper spellings should include Ernest A. Hoidal, Vivian Klein and John Runft.

Randy Stapilus is a former Idaho newspaper reporter and editor and blogs at ridenbaugh.com. He can be reached at stapilus@ridenbaugh.com. His new book What Do You Mean by That? has just been released and can be found at ridenbaugh.com/whatdoyoumeanbythat and on Amazon.com.

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Rhett Dietz is the Democratic candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates 14th District and is vying to unseat longtime incumbent Danny Marshall.

The reason Im running is in 2020 Id been living in Richmond; I just got off of one of the presidential campaigns and my little brother was 7 and he was expected to do school from home and we dont have internet, so I came over one day to help out my mom and he was sitting in the floor of his bedroom in one spot hunched over on his iPad trying to do school, said Dietz. He couldnt move from this one spota 7-year-old. When we were 7 we were running around trying to keep up with the other kids.

Chance Trevillian is the Democratic candidate for the Virginia House of Delegates 16th District and hopes to unseat incumbent Les Adams. Trevillian said his disability  he uses a wheelchair to get around  inspired him to seek office.

I just want to say how important it is to vote, Trevillian said. Ive been interested in politics since high school and its always been kind of a passion. These past few years Ive really realized how important it is to get more people involved.

When we sit out, nothing changes and when no one votes, nothing changes. Ive had my struggles in life and I tried to get a degree in elementary education, but life just got in the way, so I want to make it easier for others to follow their dreams.

Bill Wyatt is a reporter for the Martinsville Bulletin. He can be reached at 276-638-8801, Ext. 236. Follow him @billdwyatt.

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One new death due to COVID-19 in the West Piedmont Health District (WPHD) was reported Tuesday morning. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has recorded that death in Henry County.

The WPHD comprises the counties of Henry, Franklin and Patrick and the City of Martinsville.

The death marks the 400th person in the district to have died of the novel coronavirus. Franklin County also reached a new milestone, as new cases push its total to 6,000.

New cases remain half of what they were in mid-September, but models produced by the University of Virginia show the virus persisting in the state through at least May of next year.

The transmission level in Virginia remains at high by the Centers for Disease Control, and for that reason it is recommended that people wear masks indoors.

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Henry County continues to lead the district in deaths due to COVID-19 with 154, followed by Franklin County with 102, Martinsville at 89 and Patrick County with 55.

Henry County has had 433 hospitalizations, followed by Franklin County with 247, Martinsville at 184 and Patrick County with 131.
We believe that these events will continue to bring families and communities together as they learn the history of their community, added Holda.

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We hope these events may make an impact on someone and spark an interest in pursuing a career path in this or a related field. History is forever evolving, often being rewritten as the old history is being changed or corrected almost daily with new discoveries.

This Saturday evening, the MCHS will take folks on a guided tour of Old Forts haunted history.

The Historical Ghost Walk of Old Fort will be the first of its kind. The society members will share some of Old Forts history, along with a few tales of legends and spirits. This is a fundraiser event for the society and e-tickets may be obtained from the Facebook page through Eventbrite, as the societys webpage is still under construction.

The cost is $10 per ticket. Due to COVID constraints, it is limited to 10 persons per tour, with three tours only at 6, 8 and 10 p.m.
Tuesdays strike marked the fifth time workers in the Fight for $15 and a Union have gone on strike demanding McDonalds address its culture of harassment. A 10-city walkout in 2018 was the first strike over sexual harassment in more than 100 years. Little has changed since that first strike for McDonalds frontline workers, who continue to report a widespread harassment problem, according to a news release.

Its a big problem, not just at McDonalds, its a problem all over low-wage workplaces, not just restaurants, grocery stores, CNAs are also being sexually harassed on the job and its time to stop, Carroll said. Thats why we are out here. We are also out here to fight for 15. These places make millions off the backs of their workers. They can pay us more than 15 but 15 should be the bare minimum. We are also here for a union because with a union we can fight back against sexual harassment. We can fight for higher wages. We can fight for better health care. We can fight for paid time off. All of these things that we dont have that the working class desperately needs. We are just here to stand up and fight back.
(HealthDay)Antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a mainstay of depression treatment, but a new study warns that taking common painkillers alongside SSRIs may raise the chances for intestinal bleeding.

In a review of 10 published studies involving 6,000 patients, researchers found that those taking SSRIs (such as Celexa, Paxil, Prozac and Zoloft) and pain medications called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil and Aleve had an increased risk for gastrointestinal bleeding.

"When adding SSRIs to patients already on NSAIDs, the odds of developing an upper gastrointestinal bleed increased by 75%," said lead researcher Dr. Syed Alam, chief resident in internal medicine at Creighton University School of Medicine, in Omaha, Neb.

The increased risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding is likely due to the interaction of the two types of drugs, he said. NSAIDs inhibit the production of prostaglandin, which protects the gastrointestinal tract, and SSRIs inhibit the production of platelets, which are needed for clotting. This combination, therefore, increases the risk for bleeding, Alam explained.

"The risk of upper gastrointestinal bleed by adding an SSRI to an NSAID needs to be discussed between the patient and physician," he said. "When possible, it is best to reduce or discontinue NSAIDs prior to starting an SSRI in order to minimize upper gastrointestinal bleed risk."

Dr. Elena Ivanina, director of neurogastroenterology and motility at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City, said that in addition to the effect on platelets, SSRIs increase stomach acidity, which can result in peptic ulcers, increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

"Doctors and patients should both be aware of the medications that increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding," she said. "Patients should always discuss their medications with their doctor. For example, because the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding is significantly elevated when SSRIs are used together with NSAIDs like Motrin, doctors should exercise caution and consider alternative treatments to this combination."

Ivanina said that the signs of gastrointestinal bleeding can be obvious or hidden.

Gastrointestinal bleeding can cause vomiting of blood or blood in the stool or black stool, she said. "Some bleeding, however, may be microscopic and not seen; therefore, symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, shortness of breath on exertion or lightheadedness may signal blood loss as well," Ivanina said.

Another expert believes that because patients are increasingly receiving other antidepressants that also relieve pain, the risk for internal bleeding tied to these medications needs to be studied.

Dr. Jeffrey Fudin, founder of Pharmacist Consulting Services, said that it is well-known that SSRIs increase bleeding risk.

"Patients should also be aware that aspirin and anticoagulants elevate the risk of gastrointestinal bleed with or without NSAIDs," he said. This is because serotonin found in platelets, responsible for clotting, is inhibited by SSRIs, which impair platelet function.

Because many doctors are shying away from prescribing opioids, many patients are now being given serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) or milnacipran (Savella), both of which are U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved as antidepressants and also for pain, he said.

"Although fewer studies have examined the bleeding risks of SNRIs, it is logical to expect SNRIs will affect bleeding risk, albeit to a lesser extent than SSRIs," Fudin said.

The findings were presented Sunday at the American College of Gastroenterology annual meeting, which is being held in Las Vegas and online. Findings presented at medical meetings are considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Explore further Researchers find antidepressants significantly raise risk of GI, intracranial bleeding

More information: For more on SSRIs, head to the For more on SSRIs, head to the Mayo Clinic.

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Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A high level medical panel of US government advisors was meeting Tuesday to decide whether to authorize the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in five-to-11-year-olds, likely paving the way for younger children to get their shots within weeks.

If, as expected, the independent experts convened by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) vote in favor, it will set in motion actions leading to 28 million more Americans becoming eligible for immunization.

Opening the meeting, senior FDA scientist Peter Marks said younger children were "far from being spared harm of COVID-19," adding that, in this group, there had been 1.9 million infections and 8,300 hospitalizations, roughly a third of which required intensive care.

There have also been around 100 deaths, making it a top 10 leading cause of death, he added.

The question before the experts: based on the scientific evidence available, do the benefits of the two-dose vaccine, given three weeks apart, outweigh the known risks.

An analysis by Pfizer posted by the FDA before the meeting showed the vaccinegiven at 10 micrograms instead of 30 micrograms as in older groupswas 90.7 percent effective at preventing symptomatic COVID-19, and there were no serious safety issues.

The FDA also carried out a detailed a risk-benefit analysis, which indicated the agency's scientists believe the benefits exceed the most worrying potential side-effect for this age group: myocarditis, or heart inflammation.

FDA scientist Hong Yang presented a model that showed at current infection rates, the vaccine would prevent far more hospitalizations from COVID than they might cause from myocarditis.

If community transmission was brought down to very low levels, this may changebut even then vaccination might be worthwhile because of long term risks linked to non-hospitalized cases, she added.

These include multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), a rare but highly serious post-viral complication, which has affected more than 5,000 children of all ages and claimed 46 lives.

William Gruber of Pfizer added there were wider societal benefits too.

For example, children likely play an important role in transmission and vaccinating children can help reach herd immunity.

"Vaccination will help ensure in-person learning which is critical for childhood development by limiting community spread and school outbreaks," he added.

Myocarditis risk

In its clinical trial, Pfizer evaluated safety data from a total of 3,000 vaccinated participants, with the most common side-effects mild or moderate, including injection site pain, fatigue, headache, muscle pain and chills.

There were no cases of myocarditis or pericarditis (inflammation around the heart), but there were not enough study volunteers to be able to detect highly rare side-effects.

Matthew Oster, a researcher at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), gave a presentation on what is known so far about the side-effect among groups already eligible for vaccines.

Of 877 vaccine-induced myocarditis cases in under 29s, 829 were hospitalized, according to official data. The vast majority were discharged but five remain in intensive care.

The rate of the side-effect will probably be lower in the five-to-11 age group than among adolescent males, because it is thought to be linked to testosterone.

The panel will have to weigh this theoretical risk against preventing COVID, which may cause more frequent and severe myocarditis.

The meeting comes as the United States is emerging from its latest wave driven by the Delta variant.

But infections remain high in northern states such as Alaska, Montana, Wyoming and Idaho, which are experiencing colder weather and have lagging vaccination rates.

Overall, 57 percent of the total population is now fully vaccinated.

Vaccine confidence has risen in recent months, but the United States remains behind every other G7 nation in percent of population fully vaccinated.

Explore further Moderna reports positive results for COVID vaccine in younger children

 2021 AFP
In this May 6, 2021 file photo, Belgian doctor Peter Theerens administers the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine to an elderly patient during a house call in Antwerp, Belgium. The government warned Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021 that Belgium could well be on the cusp of another major surge in COVID-19 cases despite its high rate of vaccinations. Credit: AP Photo/Virginia Mayo, File

Belgium is poised to reinforce pandemic measures in an attempt to stunt a sharp increase of coronavirus cases, with officials indicating Monday that they are looked at increased mandatory use of face masks and virus passports.

The national government and regional authorities brought forward their COVID-19 coordination meeting by three days and will decide Tuesday how to counter the sudden surge of virus infections.

Requirements for the use of masks and some other measures were only relaxed early this month, and the easing could be partly turned back. Health Minister Frank Vandenbroucke, however, said that drastic restrictions were still out of the question.

"Bars and restaurants will remain open. Kids must go to schoolit's important. But maybe we will be going back to more face masks," he told VRT network. He has said the nation of 11 million people is already in the fourth surge of the coronavirus in 1 years.

One measure under consideration would require the use of the Corona passport, by which people must show they are fully vaccinated, had a recent negative virus test or recovered from COVID-19 within the previous six months.

Belgium's weekend data for pandemic cases will only be available Tuesday but over the past week figures have started to balloon again, with infections 65% higher and hospital admissions up by a third.

In this Friday, Nov. 6, 2020 file photo, Medical personnel work in the intensive care ward for COVID-19 patients at the MontLegia CHC hospital in Liege, Belgium. The government warned Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021 that Belgium could well be on the cusp of another major surge in COVID-19 cases despite its high rate of vaccinations. Credit: AP Photo/Francisco Seco, File

There are worries about cases spiking again even though 85% of the adult population is vaccinated.

Belgium's deliberations are matched in the neighboring Netherlands, where the government is seeking advice from experts on whether it needs to reintroduce pandemic restrictions amid sharply rising infection rates. The Netherlands has one of the fastest rising infection rates in Europe.

Explore further Belgium braces for another surge in COVID-19 cases

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Women serving in the UK military face a considerable risk of emotional bullying, sexual harassment and physical assault, which can have a serious and long-lasting impact on their mental health and wellbeing, finds research published online in the journal BMJ Military Health.

There are currently around 16,500 women serving in the UK military and they make up approximately 11% of personnel. Although women have been able to serve in the UK military for many years, it was not until 2018 that all roles were opened up to them, including deployment to front-line combat.

It is recognised that military women may face additional adversities during deployment on top of the risk of exposure to combat-related trauma, which may impact on their well-being, so the authors set out to investigate the prevalence of military adversity in terms of sexual harassment, sexual assault, emotional bullying and physical assault within a sample of UK women veterans.

They surveyed 750 women veterans who had been in touch with a UK charity which supports women veterans, and the responses showed that a high proportion of these women had experienced military adversity: 22.5% said they had experienced sexual harassment, 5.1% sexual assault, 22.7% emotional bullying and 3.3% physical assault.

These experiences were more likely to be reported by women who were younger, had held the rank of officer, or reported having had a combat or combat support role during their military service.

All types of adversity were significantly associated with probable post-traumatic stress disorder, and different types of adversity had specific impacts on women's mental health and wellbeing.

Sexual harassment was significantly associated with physical somatisation (where the mental distress causes physical symptoms such as pain or fatigue), sexual assault was significantly associated with alcohol difficulties, and emotional bullying was significantly associated with common mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression, low social support and loneliness.

This was an observational study, so no firm conclusions can be drawn about cause and effect, and the researchers also highlight several limitations.

The study was based around self-reported events so could underestimate or overestimate the real prevalence of what was experienced, and it was not able to assess the impact of cumulative episodes or continuous military adversity on mental health and well-being. The survey had a response rate of 44.6%, meaning the results may not be fully representative, and the majority of the women who participated were aged above 60, so the findings may not be generalisable to younger army personnel.

Nevertheless, the authors conclude that their study provides evidence of a high prevalence of military adversity among UK women veterans and highlights important relationships with sociodemographic factors and mental health difficulties that require further investigation.

There is an urgent need to provide more support to military women, they say. "Many women do not report adverse service experiences due to fear of the consequences of doing so and may continue to suffer from increased mental health distress during and after military service. It is essential to consider whether current reporting procedures may not provide sufficient confidentiality to encourage women to report adverse experiences and more appropriate disclosing procedures should be considered.

"Furthermore, it is essential to consider whether existing support is adequate to support the mental health needs of women who experienced military adversity."

As certain characteristics of the military, such as gender discrepancies, the nature of military training and the ranked order structure, may put female personnel at greater risk of victimisation, it is worth considering whether organisational and leadership changes can be made to better protect military women, they add.

Explore further High blood pressure risk higher among veterans who experienced sexual trauma while serving

More information: Adversity during military service: the impact of military sexual trauma, emotional bullying and physical assault on the mental health and well-being of women veterans, BMJ Military Health, DOI: 10.1136/bmjmilitary-2021-001948 Adversity during military service: the impact of military sexual trauma, emotional bullying and physical assault on the mental health and well-being of women veterans,
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Good sleep can be hard to come by. But a new study finds that if you can make up for lost sleep, even for just a few weekend hours, the extra zzz's could help reduce fatigue-induced clumsiness, at least in how you walk.

There's plenty of evidence to show sleep, and how much we get of it, can affect how well we do on cognitive tasks such as solving a math problem, holding a conversation, or even reading this article. Less explored is the question of whether sleep influences the way we walk or carry out other activities that are assumed to be less mentally taxing.

The new study, by researchers at MIT and the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil, reports that walkingand specifically, how well we can control our stride, or gaitcan indeed be affected by lack of sleep.

In experiments with student volunteers, the team found that overall, the less sleep students got, the less control they had when walking during a treadmill test. For students who pulled an all-nighter before the test, this gait control plummeted even further.

Interestingly, for those who didn't stay up all night before the test, but who generally had less-than-ideal sleep during the week, those who slept in on weekends performed better than those who didn't.

"Scientifically, it wasn't clear that almost automatic activities like walking would be influenced by lack of sleep," says Hermano Krebs, principal research scientist in MIT's Department of Mechanical Engineering. "We also find that compensating for sleep could be an important strategy. For instance, for those who are chronically sleep-deprived, like shift workers, clinicians, and some military personnel, if they build in regular sleep compensation, they might have better control over their gait."

Krebs and his co-authors, including lead author Arturo Forner-Cordero of the University of Sao Paulo, have published the study in the journal Scientific Reports.

Brainy influence

The act of walking was once seen as an entirely automatic process, involving very little conscious, cognitive control. Animal experiments with a treadmill suggested that walking appeared to be an automatic process, governed mainly by reflexive, spinal activity, rather than more cognitive processes involving the brain.

"This is the case with quadrupeds, but the idea was more controversial in humans," Krebs says.

Indeed, since those experiments, scientists including Krebs have showed that the act of walking is slightly more involved than once thought. Over the last decade, Krebs has extensively studied gait control and the mechanics of walking, in order to develop strategies and assistive robotics for patients who have suffered strokes and other motion-limiting conditions.

In previous experiments, he has shown, for instance, that healthy subjects can adjust their gait to match subtle changes in visual stimuli, without realizing they are doing so. These results suggested that walking involves some subtle, conscious influence, in addition to more automatic processes.

In 2013, he struck up a collaboration with Forner-Cordero through a grant from the MIT-Brazil MISTI program, and the team began to explore whether more subtle stimuli, such as auditory cues, might influence walking. In these initial experiments, volunteers were asked to walk on a treadmill as researchers played and slowly shifted the frequency of a metronome. The volunteers, without realizing it, matched their steps to the subtly changing beat.

"That suggested the concept of gait being only an automatic process is not a complete story," Krebs says. "There's a lot of influence coming from the brain."

Sleep and walking

Forner-Cordero and Krebs continued to investigate the mechanics of walking and general motor control, mostly enlisting student volunteers in their experiments. Cordero in particular noticed that, toward the end of the semester, when students faced multiple exams and project deadlines, they were more sleep-deprived and happened to do worse in the team's experiments.

"So, we decided to embrace the situation," Forner-Cordero says.

In their new study, the team enlisted students from the University of Sao Paulo to take part in an experiment focused on the effects of sleep deprivation on gait control.

The students were each given a watch to track their activity over 14 days. This information gave researchers an idea of when and how long students were sleeping and active each day. The students were given no instruction on how much to sleep, so that the researchers could record their natural sleep patterns. On average, each student slept about six hours per day, although some students compensated, catching up on sleep over the two weekends during the 14-day period.

On the evening before the 14th day, one group of students stayed awake all night in the team's sleep lab. This group was designated the Sleep Acute Deprivation group, or SAD. On the morning of the 14th day, all students went to the lab to perform a walking test.

Each student walked on a treadmill set at the same speed, as researchers played a metronome. The students were asked to keep step with the beat, as the researchers slowly and subtly raised and lowered the metronome's speed, without telling the students they were doing so. Cameras captured the students' walking, and specifically, the moment their heel struck the treadmill, compared with the beat of the metronome.

"They had to synchronize their heel strike to the beat, and we found the errors were larger in people with acute sleep deprivation," Forner-Cordero says. "They were off the rhythm, they missed beeps, and were performing in general, worse."

This in itself may not be entirely surprising. But in comparing students who did not pull an all-nighter prior to the test, the researchers found an unexpected difference: The students who did slightly better were those who compensated and got slightly more sleep on the weekends, even when they performed the test at the tail end of the week.

"That's paradoxical," Forner-Cordero says. "Even at the peak of when most people would be tired, this compensating group did better, which we didn't expect."

"The results show that gait is not an automatic process, and that it can be affected by sleep deprivation," Krebs says. "They also suggest strategies for mitigating effects of sleep deprivation. Ideally, everyone should sleep eight hours a night. But if we can't, then we should compensate as much and as regularly as possible."

Explore further New video explains the science behind sleepy teens

More information: Sleep deprivation affects gait control, Scientific Reports (2021). Journal information: Scientific Reports Sleep deprivation affects gait control,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00705-9
Germany's BioNTech, which developed a coronavirus jab with US pharmaceutical giant Pfizer, said Tuesday it aims to begin building a vaccine plant in Africa next year.

The project is expected to address the continent's shortage of COVID-19 vaccines and boost its flagging vaccination drive, with only 5.2 percent of its population fully innoculated, according to the Africa CDC.

BioNTech said it was working with authorities in both Rwanda and Senegal and planned to begin construction "in mid-2022".

The firm "will help in constructing the site for manufacturing and will also provide assistance in capacity building and knowing sharing," Rwanda's Health Minister Daniel Ngamije said, as he signed the deal in Kigali.

The facility will be located in the capital's Special Economic Zone, he added.

The plant will initially have capacity to produce around 50 million vaccine doses per year, the German company said.

BioNTech had in August announced plans to build "sustainable vaccine production capabilities" in Rwanda and Senegal, producing not only COVID-19 vaccines but also mRNA-based malaria and tuberculosis vaccines.

"We will work together to build a regional production network to support access to African-produced vaccines for Africa," BioNTech co-founder Ugur Sahin said on Tuesday.

The announcement comes as pharmaceutical firms face increasing pressure to lift patents on their COVID-19 vaccines to help produce doses in regions which are still experiencing shortages.

But there is fierce resistance from big pharma and their host countries, which insist patents are not the main roadblocks to scaling up production and warn the move could hamper innovation.

In July, Pfizer and BioNTech announced that they were partnering with the Biovac Group to bottle their COVID-19 vaccine in Cape Town, South Africa, beginning in 2022.

However, the creation of the messenger RNAthe most delicate and crucial stepwill continue to be carried out in Europe.

Currently, just one percent of vaccines used in Africa are manufactured on the continent. The African Union wants to increase this proportion to 60 percent by 2040.

US pharmaceutical giant Moderna earlier this month also announced plans to build a vaccine plant in Africa.

Africa, home to 1.2 billion people, is the least vaccinated continent in the world.

The problem has exposed Africa's huge dependence on imported vaccines and its technology gaps compared with Europe, China and the United States.

Explore further US pharmaceutical firm Moderna to build plant in Africa

 2021 AFP
Trimeric spike glycoprotein induces high level of horse neutralizing antibodies. Credit: Guilherme de Oliveira

A study conducted by a consortium of Brazilian researchers has demonstrated that a hyperimmune serum consisting of purified antibody fragments produced in horses may be an efficient approach to combat COVID-19. Tests conducted in hamsters improved the animal clinical conditions. The neutralizing activity of the sera developed by the scientists has been proved to be high against the P.1 (Gamma) and P.2 variants. The results have been published in iScience.

The research opens up the possibility for the development of passive immunization or treatment against SARS-CoV-2 infection. "By using the trimeric spike protein of SARS-COV-2 to immunize horses, a cocktail of purified IgG fragments (F(ab') 2 ) showing very high neutralizing activity was developed. This might be a useful countermeasure against COVID-19, with the added advantages of being an affordable alternative that can be produced in horse serum production facilities available worldwide," says Professor Leda Castilho, from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, who coordinates the laboratory that produces the recombinant spike protein used for horse hyperimmunization.

The scientists are confident of the efficiency of the new product. "The main finding in our study is that the equine hyperimmune globulins antibodies developed against the spike protein of the ancestral SARS-CoV-2 had high neutralizing action against the new variants of the virus, such as the gamma strain. The polyclonal nature explains this high potency, which can be tailored now by using a combination of mutant spike protein from different variants as antigens," says Professor Jerson L. Silva, from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, and coordinator of the study.

Equine immunization is a well-known and easily scalable technology proven to generate high titers of neutralizing antibodies, and has been used to treat many diseases, such as rabies, tetanus, and snake envenomation.

Since equine antivenom products are routinely produced in both high and low-income countries, the Brazilian strategy could be easily reproduced in any part of the world and could be rapidly tested as a therapy or passive immunization tool for COVID-19.

The study

Previous works on equine hyperimmune sera against SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV had shown positive results for these closely related betacoronaviruses. Another recent study has shown that the recombinant receptor-binding domain (RBD) of the SARS-CoV-2 S protein could stimulate antibody production in mice and equines.

In the Brazilian study, the scientists used the recombinant trimeric spike (S) glycoprotein to immunize horses for the production of hyperimmune globulins against SARS-CoV-2. The technique combines the advantages of using an antigen that closely resembles its state on the surface of the native virus with the biosafety advantages related to using a recombinant immunogen.

After developing the horse hyperimmune F(ab')2 concentrate, the group carried out challenge tests in hamsters, injecting the substance into the animals. The researchers evaluated the pretreatment and treatment after SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The results showed the ability of the treatment to reduce viral load in pulmonary tissues, and to improve the animal clinical conditions, as reflected by weight gain. All intervention schemes protected the animals against weight loss in the acute phase of the disease. Non-treated animals showed an increased weight loss, whereas pre-treatment resulted in no body weight reduction.

The next step of the research is to conduct a phase 1/2 clinical trial in humans. The trial protocol has already been approved by Brazilian national ethics committee, and sterile fill and finish is underway to enable quality control and batch release data to be submitted to the Brazilian regulatory agency ANVISA. The clinical trial will investigate as outcomes all safety aspects, as well as duration of hospitalization, viral load, and progression to assisted ventilation.

Explore further Newly generated monoclonal antibodies effective against SARS-CoV-2 and variants

More information: Luis Eduardo R. Cunha et al, Polyclonal F(ab')2 fragments of equine antibodies raised against the spike protein neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants with high potency, iScience (2021). Journal information: iScience Luis Eduardo R. Cunha et al, Polyclonal F(ab')2 fragments of equine antibodies raised against the spike protein neutralize SARS-CoV-2 variants with high potency,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.103315

Provided by Instituto Nacional de Ciencia e Tecnologia de Biologia Estrutural e Bioimagem (INBEB)
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

All Italians are likely to be offered booster shots for the coronavirus vaccine to help contain the spread of new variants, a government official said on Tuesday.

"It is most likely that a third dose will be necessary for everybody," Deputy Health Minister Pierpaolo Sileri told Radio Capital.

His remarks echoed what the president of the national health institute ISS, Silvio Brusaferro, had said 24 hours earlier about the need for the vaccinated to get another jab.

Italy is now limiting booster shots to patients with other serious medical conditions, people over 60 and health workers.

"I imagine the rest of the population [will follow] from January," Sileri said.

Italy has been one of the countries worst affected by the coronavirus pandemic, with almost 132,000 deaths reported since February 2020.

To date, almost 44.5 million Italians, or 82.3 percent of those over the age of 12, have been fully vaccinated, and 1.1 million have received booster shots.

To boost vaccination rates, Rome authorities have already adopted one of the world's strictest anti-COVID regimes, with mandatory coronavirus certificates for all workers.

The certificates are available to everyone who is vaccinated or recently recovered from COVID-19, but can also be obtained by getting a negative test, at the worker's own expense.

Explore further Russia allows booster shots 6 months after vaccination

 2021 AFP
Figure 2. Primary Outcome. Children received chemoprevention alone, the RTS,S/AS01E vaccine alone, or a combination of chemoprevention and RTS,S/AS01E. Panel A shows the incidence of uncomplicated clinical malaria (the primary outcome) in each of the three groups. The

In early October, the World Health Organization endorsed widespread use of the first-ever vaccine against malaria, a parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of an infective female Anopheles mosquito and a major cause of illness and death in sub-Saharan Africa. While rare in the developed world, malaria kills more than 400,000 people annually, the majority of them children in sub-Saharan Africa. The new vaccine, RTS,Sor Mosquirixmanufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, targets the infective stage of Plasmodium falciparum, the deadliest of five malaria strains, and the one responsible for the vast majority of deaths due to malaria. This achievement is the product of 30 years of research and development, and is not only the first against malaria, but the first for any human parasitic disease.

WHO recommends that children 5 months and older receive the vaccine in a four-dose schedule. The vaccine has about a 50% efficacy rate during the first year, falling to almost zero by the fourth year after vaccination. Nevertheless, public health officials see it as an advance that will have an impact in curbing the hundreds of thousands of childhood illnesses and deaths caused by this parasite. To learn more about the global implications of this new, first-generation malaria vaccine, the Hub spoke to Photini Sinnis, professor of molecular microbiology and immunology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, and of biochemistry and molecular biology at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. She also is a deputy director of the Johns Hopkins Malaria Research Institute.

How dangerous is malaria?

If you are not immune, which includes children in endemic areas, travelers, and the military, malaria can cause severe disease, resulting in death about 10% to 20% of the time if not quickly identified and treated. Importantly, immunity requires sustained, multiple exposures meaning that you can get it again. Children often get it two or three times during a transmission season over the course of many years until they've built sufficient immunity to protect them from clinical disease.

Why did it take so long to develop a malaria vaccine?

Many drugs and vaccines take a long time to come to market, but this took even longer for a few reasons. There were some safety concerns after the Phase III trial due to a very small increase in the incidence of bacterial meningitis in vaccinated children, and there was concern about the feasibility of rolling out the vaccine in sub-Saharan Africa while still preserving other important approaches, such as the use of insecticide-treated bed nets and rapid diagnostic tests followed by treatment. For these reasons, additional pilot studies were conducted in Ghana, Kenya, and Malawi, where the vaccine was studied in large geographic areas. Data from these pilot studies demonstrated the safety of the vaccine and the feasibility of administering it as part of the routine childhood immunization schedule.

This isn't just a first for malaria, but for any human parasitic disease. What does it mean for the development of vaccines for other illnesses caused by parasites?

Parasites are complex organisms, and the majority have had a long history with humans, meaning that they are highly adapted to living in us. Each specific parasite is unique in this way and their interaction with the human immune system needs to be understood in order to make an effective vaccine. With viruses, you can sometimes use similar platforms, but parasitic diseases are more complicated, and each may require an individualized approach.

How does the vaccine work?

It induces antibodies to the major surface protein of the sporozoitethat is, the infectious stage of the malaria parasite transmitted by the mosquito's biteusing a piece of that protein made into a particle by fusing it to the surface antigen of the hepatitis B virus. The particles are created because they are better than the protein alone at provoking an immune response. This is administered in combination with an adjuvantor immune boosterwhich is key, and which enhances the production of antibodies.

The vaccine's efficacy rate was 50% the first year, dropping to nearly zero by the fourth year. Will that mean the need for repeated boosters? Is 50% good enough?

What it means is that it's as good as we've ever done for a parasitic infectionbut it's not good enough. We need to continue working. The current schedule calls for three doses before the transmission season, then a booster before the next one. It wouldn't surprise me if we will need a booster before every transmission season. When you have 400,000 kids dying every year, then 50% is meaningful. But we can do better.

A trial of the vaccine given with preventive drugs was much more effective than just the vaccine alone. Should this be the preferred strategy?

Yes. The researchers gave a course of vaccine before the rainy season and then three spaced doses of two drugssulphadoxine-pyrimethamine plus amodiaquineduring the rainy season. They had between 60% and 70% lower incidence of uncomplicated malaria, severe malaria, and death compared to either intervention alone, which is clearly the approach we need to be taking.

Does it require refrigerationthat is, will it be easily distributed? How much does it cost? Who will be funding the costs?

The adjuvant requires refrigeration, which is doable. The vaccine costs about $5 a dose, which can be expensive in low-income countries, but with support from the vaccine alliance Gavi, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, hopefully cost won't be a problem.

How soon will it be available?

By the end of 2022 or the beginning of 2023, it should be rolled out in a meaningful way in sub-Saharan Africa.

Does this advance give us hope that the disease will be eradicated at some point in the near future? To be sure, its efficacy is modest; nevertheless it is a major first step. Will this make subsequent steps easier and faster?

I don't think we will eradicate malaria with this vaccine, but it will make a difference in childhood morbidity and mortality, which is important. It's possible that the combination of the vaccine and intermittent drug therapy, as outlined above, could decrease transmission significantly in certain areas. However, additional modalities, such as vaccines targeting other parasite stages or novel mosquito interventions, could combine with this vaccine to have much greater impact.

How will this change day-day-day life for people living in areas where the disease is prevalent/endemic?

People should not stop using other transmissionblocking modalities. They should still sleep under bed nets, for example. But fewer children will become seriously ill and fewer children will die and that is important. It also means more children will survive childhood and fewer of them will suffer the long-term consequences of malaria, such as neurological complications and severe anemia, which can increase death from other causes.

Why should Americans, who probably don't think about the dangers of malaria since it is so rare here, care about this development? And what will it mean in the global fight against the disease?

It's only been since World War II since we've eliminated malaria in the United States and in Europe. With global warming and increasingly hot summers in some places, we could start to see more transmission here. But more importantly, we should care about other human beings. We are a globalized world, meaning we are aware of the toll malaria is taking in other parts of the world, especially on the children. How can we ignore it?

Explore further Broad-spectrum malaria vaccine developed

More information: Daniel Chandramohan et al, Seasonal Malaria Vaccination with or without Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention, New England Journal of Medicine (2021). Journal information: New England Journal of Medicine Daniel Chandramohan et al, Seasonal Malaria Vaccination with or without Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention,(2021). DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2026330
Fig. 1. Mental Distress, Perceived adversities, Resilience and Coping Over Time (April 2020 to January 2021) by ADL Disability Status at Baseline. Credit: DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2021.101216

New research from the University of Toledo suggests there is an urgent, unmet need for stronger mental health support among people with disabilities as the COVID-19 pandemic continues.

"Mental health has become another pandemic within COVID-19. The need for support has been emphasized broadly, but not necessary for individuals living with disabilities," said Dr. Ling Na, an assistant professor of public health at UToledo. "We need to do better at understanding their specific needs and finding ways to support them."

Na recently led a study that used a national survey of more than 6,400 Americans about their anxiety and depression, psychological risk factors, resilience and coping mechanisms on a bi-weekly basis from March 2020 through January 2021.

Researchers sorted participants into three groupsthose who reported no disability; those who reported a disability that affects their mobility or their ability to perform routine self-care activities; and those who had disabilities that affected both mobility and self-care.

The analysis found a strong association between the number of disabilities an individual experiences and their level of mental distress. It also found individuals with disabilities reported higher levels of what researchers call perceived adversities, including stress, loneliness and their personal assessment of the risk COVID-19 poses to their life or finances.

At the same time, the more disabilities someone had, the less they were able to effectively adapt to the adversity brought on by the pandemicmeaning they were ill-prepared to manage their mounting stress and worries.

The findings were recently published in the Disability and Health Journal. The research also was selected for a brief presentation last week at the American Public Health Association's 2021 Annual Meeting and Expo.

While Na said the results were not surprising, the data are urgently needed in order to appropriately respond to the pandemic in a vulnerable but not well-studied segment of the population.

"This is a chance for us to explore their reality of life and what it looks like in a pandemic," she said. "With the lockdowns and social isolation and social distancing rules, people with disabilities have faced tremendous barriers to receiving support for their daily living, accessing their care and taking care of their own mental and physical healthespecially those who have mobility and self-care difficulties. Research about how this has impacted them through the pandemic is scarce."

Na's hope is that the study will provide a baseline for how individuals with disabilities are coping with the stresses put on them by the pandemic and what their resilience is to the challenges of COVID-19.

From that, policymakers and clinicians may be able to develop methods to build resilience and positive coping skills.

"This study highlights the importance of stress-coping education and intervention," she said. "Knowing this group, knowing their reality during the pandemic and finding ways to reduce the disparities in mental health is important for healthcare providers and others who support individuals with disabilities."

Explore further Excess deaths in people with mental health conditions increased during the COVID-19 pandemic

More information: Ling Na et al, Psychological and behavioral responses during the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals with mobility and/or self-care disabilities, Disability and Health Journal (2021). Ling Na et al, Psychological and behavioral responses during the COVID-19 pandemic among individuals with mobility and/or self-care disabilities,(2021). DOI: 10.1016/j.dhjo.2021.101216
Credit: CC0 Public Domain

Prostate cancer, the second-most common cancer in men behind skin cancer with nearly a quarter of a million cases in the U.S. diagnosed annually, plays favorites.

African American men are at the highest risk for both developing and dying from the disease.

Heightened risk

African American men are 1.8 times more likely to develop prostate cancer than white men. The reasons why are complex, said Dr. Eldra Daniels, a family physician with Penn State Health Medical GroupMount Joy and Penn State Health Lime Spring Outpatient Center.

"Genetics play a role as well as the social environment, a history of smoking and limited physical activity," Daniels said, adding that African American men also have less access to high quality care.

"We also see a health disparity among African American men," he continued. "They're less likely to get in to see their physician on a regular basis, and when they do see one, they might not get the same attention and intervention as other populations. Historically, there's some mistrust with the medical field among African American men."

Helping this population overcome that mistrust was one of the reasons Daniels, an African American, went into medicine. Additionally, he wants to sound the alarm about the importance of timely screenings for prostate cancer.

Earlier screenings

Not only are African Americans at a significantly higher risk of developing prostate cancer, they're also 2.2 times more likely to die from the disease than white men.

"African American men tend to get more aggressive prostate cancer that metastasizes," Daniels said. "They are getting diagnosed twice as much as Caucasian men, and their cancers are found at later stages. They might go to the doctor for back pain only to learn that it's not arthritis, but instead is prostate cancer that had metastasized to their bones. It is critically important they get screened for this cancer."

The American Cancer Society recommends African American men start prostate cancer screenings at age 45.

"Other ethnic groups start at age 50. That's five years too late for an African American male," Daniels said. "And if they have more than one family member who developed prostate cancer before age 65, African American men should talk with their doctors about starting their screenings at age 40."

Men can see their primary care physician for their prostate screening. Their physician will order a blood test to measure prostate-specific antigen (PSA)  a protein produced by both cancerous and noncancerous tissue in the prostateand perform what's called a digital rectal examination.

"During the exam, a physician puts their finger in the rectum and feels for the prostate," Daniels said. "That's uncomfortable for a lot of people. Some want to avoid it completely. We have to stress with men that it's a quick procedure that's so important for their health."

If the blood test shows elevated PSA levels or if the doctor finds something during the digital rectal exam, the doctor will refer the patient to a urologist for further testing.

"Sometimes men are very nervous that they have cancer and require surgery when they have an elevated PSA level," Daniels said. "That's not necessarily true. An elevated PSA could be due to benign prostatic hyperplasiaan enlarged prostatethat's a common condition in older men."

Treatment options

Treatment for prostate cancer varies depending on the specifics of the cancer, its location within the prostate gland and the cancer's stage. Options include active surveillance, surgery, radiation or hormone therapy, chemotherapy, cryotherapy and laser ablation.

"There have been disparities among the African American population with how prostate cancer is treated," Daniels said. "Sometimes, African American men diagnosed with early prostate cancer were less likely to receive any form of treatment than other ethnic populations facing the same diagnosisdespite the fact that this cancer is typically more aggressive in African American men."

Daniels doesn't just want to raise awareness among African American men about their heightened risk of developingand dying fromprostate cancer. He says others play a critical role in messaging, too.

"Spouses, family members and the community need to know the risks so they can support their loved ones by encouraging healthier lifestyles and stressing the need for early screenings," Daniels said.

African American men are at the highest risk for both developing and dying from prostate cancer. It is essential that this population take preventative measures and seek appropriate treatment if diagnosed.

Explore further Inherited mutation linked to higher prostate cancer risk in African American families
As Aotearoa New Zealand moves from elimination to suppression, we need to understand how this could change the nature of transmission from Auckland's Delta outbreak to the rest of New Zealand.

Aucklanders can expect a three-step easing of restrictions, followed by the new traffic light COVID-19 protection framework, once 90% of those eligible are vaccinated.

The lifting of restrictions will come as a relief for many who are missing friends and family and are struggling with social isolation. But as additional transmission pathways open, simple changes in a network can result in complex outcomes.

A common phenomenon within complex networks is called the "percolation effect"the addition of new connections results in a "phase transition" where a once poorly connected network can quickly turn into a highly connected one.

For Auckland, this means the gradual addition of just one or two new connections between families could result in a vastly more connected city. The whole country could become far more connected than initially assumed.

As part of our work to simulate viral transmission under the new conditions, we have created a synthetic version of Aotearoa using the Populated Aotearoa Interaction Network (PAIN).

This is a synthetic network representing Aotearoa New Zealand, where every person has an age, sex, ethnicity, and place of employment or education. These individuals are treated as nodes in a network and interact through community contexts, much like those we will experience when we begin interacting with family members and friends as restrictions ease.

With the PAIN, we can model transmission to more accurately reflect the experiences of individuals, compared to less complex models that average interaction patterns.

This has allowed us to model the potential trajectory of COVID-19 outbreaks and predict how changes in alert level policy, vaccination rates and increased social connection might affect the spread of the virus.

Simple changes, complex outcomes

One important feature of an interaction network is the "largest connected component" (LCC), which tells us the approximate number of people COVID-19 could theoretically spread to, based on the connections people share.

In a scenario like the strictest alert level 4, where most community connections are removed, we see the interaction network for Aotearoa broken up into many small disconnected sections. In this case, the largest connected component through households and community interactions would contain around 90,000 linked individuals.

But for a level of intervention like alert level 3, potential community interactions increase through families extending their bubbles. We see the largest connected component increase by a factor of almost 15, to around 1.4 million connected individuals.

These numbers are based on the optimistic assumption we can neglect interactions in workplaces on the basis that masking and good ventilation reduce transmission significantly.

This clearly demonstrates New Zealand is a highly connected society and most New Zealanders will be connected to each other through interactions we share. We argue this makes mitigation strategiesvaccination, masking, distancingeven more important.

Given ongoing community transmission and a rising number of unlinked cases, the three-step roadmap, even with people only meeting up in pairs, moves us to a situation where Auckland is essentially reconnected, from a contagion point of view.

Equity in a 'pandemic of the unvaccinated'

The move away from elimination comes at a point when some communities still have low vaccination rates, in particular Maori and younger people. The average age of Maori in Auckland is 26; most of this younger cohort (Group 4) has only been eligible for vaccination since September 1.

"If the government had listened to our experts, and itself, all these months, Maori could have been 90 percent vaccinated by now," writes Vini Olsen-Reeder, who's sick of Maori being blamed for being slow to vaccinate.

https://t.co/lzWZLLGcVE  e-Tangata (@etangata) October 24, 2021

The return of children to early childhood centers, with bubbles of up to ten, is concerning since infants and toddlers cannot currently be vaccinated. High rates of respiratory illness among New Zealand children further compounds the risk of serious illness from COVID-19.

Our models clearly show only a small number of additional connections are necessary to sufficiently connect existing bubbles such that a large percentage of the population would be reachable if there is uncontrolled spread. The evidence from the current Delta outbreak shows the virus is finding unvaccinated people.

Most of us don't have any influence on decisions the government makes. What we can control is the decisions we make ourselves. The best we can do right now is manage our own risk, making sure the virus can't spread when connections are made.

There are several steps we can take to ensure connections do not turn into uncontrolled clusters of COVID-19. With the exception of those now required to go back to work, we should think of new freedoms as options, not targets.

Reducing transmission

Even if we're vaccinated, we should continue to act like we have the virus, thinking about our new contacts as potentially connected to cases of COVID-19 that haven't been detected yet.

If you reconnect with family or friends, keep the total number of new connections to a minimum. If meeting people from other households, take every precaution to keep each other safe, stay outside and always wear a well fitted mask.

Make a note of all your connections, in the app or a diary. Remember to record the name and phone numbers to make contact tracing as fast and easy as possible, should you come into contact with the virus.

Creating large chains by connecting with lots of different bubbles will very quickly result in one large connected network, increasing the risk of spread and making contact tracing more difficult. It falls upon all of us to take every step we can to make sure we protect our loved ones, and our community.

Explore further New Zealand extends lockdown in virus-hit Auckland

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A new paper in The Economic Journal indicates that a large-scale government subsidy aimed at encouraging people to eat out in restaurants in the wake of the first 2020 COVID-19 wave in the United Kingdom accelerated a second COVID19 wave.

The COVID19 pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus hurt economies around the world. The hospitality sector was particularly vulnerable due to forced decline in tourism and leisure activities. This rippled across economies, as hospitality workers then reduce their spending and have trouble meeting basic expenses. Some governments have used fiscal policy to help the hospitality sector by stimulating demand. This paper explored to what extent an intervention in the United Kingdom, the Eat-Out-To-Help-Out schemehad the inadvertent effect of promoting COVID19 infections.

The scheme was designed to encourage demand for hospitality and restaurant businesses. It directly subsidized the cost of meals and non-alcoholic drinks by up to 50% across participating restaurants across the UK for meals served on all Mondays to Wednesdays from August 3 to August 31, 2020. The discount was capped at a maximum of GBP 10 per person but there was no limit on how often people could benefit. Aggregate data suggest that the government subsidized 160 million meals were subsidized, costing the taxpayer 849 million. Restaurant visits increased drastically on Monday to Wednesday, which usually see less traffic. Official government statistics released at the end of January 202 suggest that at least 59,981 businesses have registered for the scheme.

Researchers here found that the program did have a notable temporary impact on restaurant visits when comparing year-on-year changes from the booking service OpenTable. During days that the scheme was available, restaurant visits increased between 10-200%. Yet, the data also suggests that the scheme may have shifted restaurant visits from the weekend to weekdays on which the discount was available and that the increased number of restaurant visits was temporary.

Areas with higher participation in the Eat-Out-To-Help-Out scheme saw both a notable increase in new COVID19 infection clusters within a week of the scheme starting, and a deceleration in infections within two weeks of the program ending. Areas that had notable rainfall during the prime lunch and dinner hours on days the scheme was active, making customers less likely to visit restaurants and take advantage of the subsidized meals, had a lower infection rate.

The empirical estimates suggest that the subsidized restaurant meal scheme may be responsible for around 11% of all new detected COVID19 clusters emerging during August and into early September in the United Kingdom.

Explore further Food safety crises at smaller restaurant chains can hurt giants

More information: Thiemo Fetzer, Subsidising the spread of COVID-19: Evidence from the UK'S Eat-Out-to-Help-Out Scheme*, The Economic Journal (2021). Thiemo Fetzer, Subsidising the spread of COVID-19: Evidence from the UK'S Eat-Out-to-Help-Out Scheme*,(2021). DOI: 10.1093/ej/ueab074
A train conductor checks the Covid Certificate of passengers, at a train station in Kyiv, Ukraine, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. Coronavirus infections and deaths in Ukraine have surged to all-time highs amid a laggard pace of vaccination, which is one of the lowest in Europe. Credit: AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky

Ukraine reported another record daily number of COVID-19 deaths Tuesday as vaccinations in the nation of 41 million people lags.

Ukraine's Health Ministry registered 734 deaths in 24 hours, raising the country's pandemic death toll to 64,936.

Ukrainians can freely choose between the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Sinovac vaccines, but just about 16% of the population has been fully vaccinated, Europe's second-lowest rate after Armenia.

The government has responded to a steady rise in confirmed cases and deaths in recent weeks by tightening restrictions. Starting last Thursday, proof of vaccination against the coronavirus or a negative test was required to board planes, trains and long-distance buses.

On Tuesday, Enerhodar in southeastern Ukraine became the first Ukrainian city to halt public transportation due to the number of drivers refusing to get vaccinated as required by city authorities.

Amid the travel restriction, a black market for counterfeit vaccination certificates has blossomed, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to hold a meeting last week on ways to uproot the illegal practice.

To encourage more people to get vaccinated, authorities have started offering shots in shopping malls. Health Minister Viktor Lyashko said Tuesday that Ukraine now is giving about 250,000 jabs a day, which is he said is the same number previously administered in a month.

Lyashko acknowledged that widespread vaccine hesitancy remained a challenge. About half of Ukraine's medical workers have been reluctant to get immunized, he said.

People wait for their turn in a vaccination center before boarding a train at a train station in Kyiv, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. Coronavirus infections and deaths in Ukraine have surged to all-time highs amid a laggard pace of vaccination, which is one of the lowest in Europe. Credit: AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky

People take an antigen-test for COVID-19 before boarding a train, at a train station in Kyiv, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. Coronavirus infections and deaths in Ukraine have surged to all-time highs amid a laggard pace of vaccination, which is one of the lowest in Europe. Credit: AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky

People take an antigen-test for COVID-19 at a train station in Kyiv, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. Coronavirus infections and deaths in Ukraine have surged to all-time highs amid a laggard pace of vaccination, which is one of the lowest in Europe. Credit: AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky

Explore further Ukraine sees new record high in virus deaths, infections

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Sweden which has stood out among European nations for its comparatively hands-off response to the pandemic, has passed the threshold of 15,000 deaths with COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic, according to official figures released Tuesday.

Thomas Linden of the National Board of Health and Welfare, told Swedish public radio that it was difficult to say whether Sweden has an unusually high excess mortality due to the virus.

"Internationally, Sweden has not had a higher mortality rate. But if you compare with the other Nordic countries, we are significantly higher," Linden told SR.

In comparison, Denmark has recorded 2,703 deaths, Norway 895 and Finland nearly 1,150. Each of those countries has slightly over half as many people as Sweden.

According to the Public Health Agency of Sweden, 15,002 people6,793 women and 8,209 menhave died with COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic.

Sweden had opted for keeping large sections of society open. It has not gone into lockdowns or closed businesses, relying instead on citizens' sense of civic duty to control infections.

Explore further Sweden tops EU virus case rates

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

A year-and-a-half into the coronavirus pandemic, the world has still done far too little to respond and has failed to learn from its mistakes, a global health monitor said Tuesday.

In a report launched in Berlin, the Global Preparedness Monitoring Board (GPMB), an independent body set up by the World Health Organization and the World Bank, slammed the continued failings in the global response to the pandemic.

"If the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic was defined by a collective failure to take preparedness seriously and act rapidly on the basis of science, the second has been marked by profound inequalities and a failure of leaders to understand our interconnectedness and act accordingly," the report said.

The pandemic has exposed a world that is "unequal, divided, and unaccountable", it concluded.

"The health emergency ecosystem reflects this broken world. It is not fit for purpose and needs major reform."

The report, launched at the Global Health Summit in Berlin, comes as the number of deaths from the coronavirus nears five million, according to an AFP tally of official sources.

Taking into account excess mortality directly and indirectly linked to COVID-19, the WHO estimates the overall death toll could be two to three times higher.

The grim milestone approaches in the context of a sharp divide between wealthier and poorer regions in terms of vaccination rates.

'Deep shame'

World Trade Organization chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala pointed out earlier this month that, of more than six billion vaccine doses administered worldwide, only 1.4 percent of people in poor countries have been fully vaccinated.

"Scientific advancement during COVID-19, particularly speed of vaccine development, gives us just cause for pride," GPMB co-chair Elhadj As Sy said in his foreword to the report.

"However, we must feel deep shame over multiple tragediesvaccine hoarding, the devastating oxygen shortages in low-income countries, the generation of children deprived of education, the shattering of fragile economies and health systems."

He also said that the millions of deaths from the pandemic was "neither normal nor acceptable".

"Sadly, there is scant evidence that we are learning the right lessons from this pandemic. Thousands continue to die every day, yet many talk and act as if the pandemic is over," he said.

In a 2020 report, the GPMB said the pandemic had already revealed how little the world had focused on preparing for such disasters, despite ample warnings that large disease outbreaks were inevitable.

Explore further World dangerously unprepared for next pandemic: monitor

 2021 AFP
People are vaccinated at a COVID-19 vaccination center in Otara, Auckland, New Zealand, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. New Zealand's government said Tuesday it will expand a vaccine mandate to include thousands of workers who have close contact with their customers, including those at restaurants, bars, gyms and hair salons. Credit: Dean Purcell/New Zealand Herald via AP

New Zealand's government said Tuesday it will expand a vaccine mandate to include thousands of workers who have close contact with their customersincluding employees at restaurants, bars, gyms and hair salons.

The changes will mean that about 40% of all New Zealand workers will need to get fully vaccinated against the coronavirus or risk losing their jobs, up from about 15% previously.

Speaking with reporters, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she didn't believe the new rules were an overreach of government power.

"This requirement means staff and customers are treated equally and it will play a big part in helping to minimize the spread of the virus in the highest-risk venues by reducing the potential for COVID to enter the business in the first place," Ardern said.

Workers who had previously been told they needed to get their shots included teachers and health care professionals.

Tuesday's announcement came just a few days after the government set a target of getting 90% of people aged 12 and over fully vaccinated in order to end the cycle of lockdowns.

Auckland, the largest city, has been in lockdown for more than two months after an outbreak of the delta variant.

As part of its plan to end lockdowns, New Zealand will also require people visiting high-traffic businesses to show vaccine passports to prove they've had their shots.

New Zealanders wait to be vaccinated at Manurewe Marae vaccination center in Auckland, New Zealand, Saturday, Oct 21, 2021. New Zealand's government said Tuesday it will expand a vaccine mandate to include thousands of workers who have close contact with their customers, including those at restaurants, bars, gyms and hair salons. Credit: Sylvie Whinray/New Zealand Herald via AP

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announces in Wellington, Friday, Oct. 22, 2021, an ambitious target of fully vaccinating 90% of eligible people to end coronavirus lockdowns. Ardern has been under pressure to provide a pathway to freedom for people living in Auckland, the largest city, who have been in lockdown for more than two months. Credit: Robert Kitchin/Pool Photo via AP

The conservative opposition National Party said there was no need for restrictions such as vaccine passports once vaccination targets were met.

"Some businesses will choose to require proof of vaccination. Others will not," said opposition leader Judith Collins in a statement.

Explore further New Zealand sets 90% vaccine target to end lockdown

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Ambassador of Belarus S.Terentiev meets the Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs of Egypt for European Affairs

On October 26, 2021, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Belarus to the Arab Republic of Egypt Sergei Terentiev met with Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs for European Affairs of Egypt Badr Abdel Aty.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the preparation of the 7th meeting of the Belarusian-Egyptian Trade Commission. The issues of interaction in the field of air traffic were also touched upon.

Sergei Terentiev and Badr Abdel Aty exchanged views on plans for joint events for the next year, including the holding of the first meeting of the Commission on Political Dialogue and Bilateral Cooperation at the level of the foreign ministers of Belarus and Egypt, as well as of cultural events timed to coincide with the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

The interlocutors noted importance of the effective work of interstate interaction mechanisms for the development of the entire complex of Belarusian-Egyptian relations.

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NEW YORK  Who was Jacques-Yves Cousteau, exactly?

He was an oceanographer and explorer but held no scientific degree. He was an environmentalist whose voyages were nevertheless sometimes funded by oil companies seeking drilling sites. He was a filmmaker who made otherworldly undersea documentaries  three won best documentary Oscars  but he disliked the term. He preferred "adventure films."

Now playing "Becoming Cousteau" is playing at the Roxy Theater.

Maybe Cousteau's legacy is, appropriately, more fluid. Perhaps more than anything else, Cousteau symbolized a boundless spirit of adventure, leading a landlubbing public into enchanted underwater worlds. A siren of the seas.

In Liz Garbus' "Becoming Cousteau," an editor named John Soh from ABC's "The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau" wrestles with the difficulty of labeling Cousteau only to conclude: "He was a man looking at the future."

"Becoming Cousteau" attempts to frame the singular Cousteau and his legacy as an early environmental defender of increasingly imperiled waters. It's a defining documentary portrait of the French oceanographer  the real-life Steve Zissou  as a fish only truly content below the surface.

"I am miserable out of the water," Cousteau, who died in 1993, says in a recording in the film. "It is as though you've been introduced to heaven and then forced back to Earth."

The film has one toe in the dreamy mystical realm of Cousteau's own making  the otherworldly underwater photography he shot with Louis Malle; the stylish, high-seas adventures aboard the Calypso  and another in a more sober reality of ocean pollution that Cousteau watched with growing concern. In later years, his popular, Emmy-winning nature series turned increasingly grim and ominous.

"By the end of his life, I think he felt like Cassandra screaming to everyone about this impending doom," says Garbus. "Certainly he suffered commercially for that, as well. They were like: These shows are a downer.'"

Garbus, the prolific documentarian of two Oscar-nominated docs ("What Happened Miss Simone?" "The Farm: Angola, USA") and a host of others ( "The Fourth Estate," "All In: The Fight for Democracy"), first started developing the film in 2015. But it took years to get access approved by the Cousteau Society and his estate.

Cousteau's second wife, Francine Cousteau, and their two children, Pierre Yves and Dianne, are executive producers on the film. (Cousteau also had two other sons: Jean-Michel and Philippe, who died in a plane crash in 1979.) Working with the family, Garbus says, was "very complicated."

"Becoming Cousteau" may be light on some of the late-years squabbling over his sizable empire, including the bankrupted theme park Cousteau Oceanic Park near Paris. But it doesn't shy away from the complexities of Cousteau's evolution from a former naval officer diving off the French Riviera in the Mediterranean to a world-famous explorer and entertainer synonymous with the sea who netted the public's imagination.

"I didn't reread 'The Iliad' but I looked back on some stuff about Odysseus' journey," says Garbus. "In the final moment, he's on land and he's told to keep walking and bring the oar to find people who have never seen the sea and tell them about it. And that's what he did."

Cousteau's legacy also includes co-creating the Aqua-lung, freeing underwater diving of clunky apparatus and birthing the use of scuba. For Garbus, he also led the way for generations of filmmakers, from last year's Oscar-winning "My Octopus Teacher" to James Cameron. It makes Garbus wonder what Cousteau would make of today's non-fiction ecosystem.

"What would he think if he was alive today with the streamers and all the competition for documentary content? I wonder if he would revise that statement or be prouder of it," says Garbus.

"He probably would not have enjoyed sitting for a lengthy interview with the likes of me," she adds. "But I hope that he would have felt that his life works  this message of conservation  is honored in the film and coming at a moment when we need it desperately. "

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In the midst of a worsening budgetary and public health crisis due to persistently high COVID-19 case numbers, Missoula County officials are venting their exasperation at Gov. Greg Gianfortes administration's slow pace of distributing relief funds.

They havent received any money for contact tracing from the $143.4 million the state has specifically for that purpose from the federal American Rescue Plan Act, they say.

Meanwhile, the county health department has been forced to switch to more automated contact tracing and case investigation procedures due to what they describe as a budget and staff crunch.

This is practically criminal that (the state is) not sending the money out and I feel like theres something we should do, said Pam Boyd, a member of the Missoula County Health Board, during a meeting last week.

The Missoula City-County Health Department has been swamped in the last few months with case investigation, contact tracing and case monitoring, according to county health officer DShane Barnett.

I dont thing its a surprise to anybody that COVID numbers are high right now and we are struggling with keeping pace with both caseload  those individuals testing positive  as well as the load of close contacts that need to be worked through in this process, he told the board.

They've been overwhelmed, he explained.

We are quickly losing the trust of the public," he said. "I get a lot of calls and messages from people, they were either a close contact or a positive case and were not getting to them effectively and efficiently.

There have been many weeks in which the department is trying to manage over 100 new cases every day, and its costing the department about $500,000 a month just for contact tracing and investigating, Barnett said.

Its a very labor-intensive, resource-intensive process, he said. So, recently, theyve been forced to move to a system where positive cases are alerted by text message and asked to fill out an online form rather than being called by an investigator who takes down their information. The new approach reflects the new fiscal reality, the policy reality and the public health reality, he added.

The county has asked Gov. Gianfortes administration for help, because in early 2021, Democrats in Congress approved nearly $2 billion in COVID-19 relief money for Montana officials to spend, part of the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act signed by President Joe Biden on March 11.

The state was allocated $143.4 million specifically for testing and contact tracing, said county chief administrative officer Chris Lounsbury.

So far, they have not released any of that funding to any local jurisdiction, so its not that they have just not released it to Missoula County, they havent released it to anybody, he said.

Brian Chaszar, the director of the health departments infectious disease branch, said they havent even been told if they can expect the money at a later date.

The county and Missoula mayor John Engen sent a letter Aug. 26 asking the state to pass that money down, Lounsbury said. In the letter, the three county commissioners said federal money for contact tracing is the most urgent need.

And we have not received any response to that communication to the governors office, Lounsbury said.

Gianforte spokeswoman Brooke Stroyke said she had not seen Missoula County's letter. She referred questions about why the ARPA money has not been distributed to Jon Ebelt, a spokesperson for the Montana Department of Health and Human Services.

Stroyke confirmed that her office had no formal record of receiving the letter.

Ebelt asked for more time to gather an accounting of the money that has been allocated to local jurisdictions. He did say that the $143.4 million for testing and contact tracing, listed on the state's ARPA website, is an estimate of what the department thought they might receive.

"However, that was not the case and the annual ARPA funding is less than that," he said.

Ebelt said his department is distributing significant funding through ARPA grants to support testing, vaccination and mitigation strategies in specific settings such as schools and prisons.

A report from the Governors Office of Budget and Program Planning, dated Oct. 7, shows that $7.3 million has been approved by the state to increase public health workforce capacity, but none of that money has been spent.

Only $92 million of Montanas entire allotment from the American Rescue Plan Act had been spent by the end of September of this year, according to reporter Holly Michels of the Lee Newspaper State Bureau. Thats despite the fact that $967.7 million has been approved by state commissions that are tasked with recommending how to use the money.

Democratic legislators have been criticizing the Gianforte administrations slow pace of distributing the money, while Gianfortes budget director, Kurt Alme, said the state is moving as fast as we can.

In 2020, Republicans were repeatedly critical of then-Gov. Steve Bullock, a Democrat, for not spending COVID-19 relief funds from the federal CARES Act quickly enough.

In a statement to Lee Montana, Alme defended the states pace of spending by saying the CARES Act required quicker spending because it was for more emergent needs and the purpose of ARPA was to help the economy recover from long-term effects.

In the letter to the governor dated Aug. 26, the three county commissioners and mayor Engen said contact tracing costs are not eligible for FEMA reimbursement.

As the current spike in cases continues, we expect costs could near $151,000 per week for this activity alone, they wrote. We are asking you to quickly make funds available to help localities across the state with these costs.

Montana is one of the top hotspots for coronavirus in the nation for average daily COVID-19 cases and second only to Alaska, according to the Mayo Clinics coronavirus tracker.

On Monday, the county health department reported 151 new COVID-19 cases from over the weekend.

Our average daily new cases over the past seven days is now 70 cases per 100,000 people, said county COVID-19 response incident commander Cindy Farr. Missoulas (intensive care units) have been full for the last three months, according to our local doctors. This means that individuals with non-COVID issues may not get the same care that they would otherwise get if we had less COVID patients in our hospitals.

There have been 160 deaths among county residents due to the disease, including 32 deaths so far in October, she noted.

Were seeing more deaths this fall than at any other point in the pandemic, she said.

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An agricultural mechanics teacher at Ronan High School was awarded a $50,000 national teaching prize from Harbor Freight Tools recognizing excellence in skilled trades education on Monday.

Casey Lunceford, in his fourth year of teaching at Ronan, is one of 18 educators selected to be recipients of the 2021 Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence.

He is the first educator to receive the honor in the state of Montana.

I dont think I can stress enough the fact that I think we got it because of the community involvement and how much they know that this program is a key to success for our students, Lunceford said.

Thirty-five thousand of the $50,000 will be allocated to the schools agricultural mechanics program. Lunceford will receive the remaining $15,000 to be used personally.

Harbor Freight Tools is awarding $1 million in prizes nationwide. The Tools for Schools award is a program of the Smidt Foundation, established by company founder Eric Smidt with the goal of advancing trades education in public high schools.

Among the key things we came to appreciate during the pandemic is the value of hands-on learning and the incredible resilience and commitment of our teachers, Smidt said. We are grateful that these outstanding winners and thousands of educators like them across the country are developing tomorrows skilled workforce.

Lunceford got a call from Harbor Freight Tools informing him that he had been selected as a finalist for the award, but he was not aware of the celebratory assembly his colleagues planned on Monday.

He thought Mondays assembly was only to celebrate his coworker, Jesse Gray, a technology teacher who was recognized as the 2021 Montana Technology Student Association Advisor of the Year.

So we have a second special surprise today, said Kevin Kenelty, the principal of Ronan High School.

Im very honored to be here this afternoon to share some very exciting news about an amazing teacher and his incredible skills-trades program, he continued, as Luncefords family emerged from a corner of the gym wielding a large check and pushing a yellow tool box to the center of the court.

Students and teachers in the gym erupted into applause and cheering following the announcement.

That was great, just because I know the kids are pretty excited about mechanics ... theyre coming around on the fact that they know theres a lot of jobs out there, and I think theyre starting to realize that they can stay home in this valley and still make a good living, Lunceford said.

Lunceford intends to use the money to buy new equipment for welding and additional safety tools. He mentioned that the programs air compressors could also stand to be replaced.

Im afraid Ive got to learn just as fast as the kids do, but I think well get to the point where weve got a chance to try some stuff that we havent had yet, Lunceford said.

Luncefords curriculum covers a variety of subjects including welding, small engines, electrical wiring, hydraulics and more. The wide offerings allow students to explore different options that can lead to internships to prepare them for their future careers.

His classes take on large projects, like a recent overhaul of the Lake County Fairgrounds hog barn and horse stock trailers. Lunceford credits these hands-on projects for helping his students gain real-world experience.

Over his career at Ronan High School, hes brought the graduation rate for skilled trades education up from 90% to 100% by the end of last school year.

Luncefords students were among the most excited about the award.

Its been really good (being in Luncefords classes), you get to learn about different stuff every day and some of our classes head out to the stock yards and get to work on those so it gives us some hands on work before actually going into any sort of job, said James Kenelty, a junior at Ronan High School.

This year, the 2021 Hard Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teaching Excellence drew over 700 applications from 49 states. The finalists were narrowed down through three rounds of judging by independent panels of experts from industry, trades, education, philanthropy and civic leadership. The field was narrowed to 61 finalists by July.

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BOSTON (AP)  Boston City Councilors Annissa Essaibi George and Michelle Wu clashed on everything from rent control to public transportation as they faced off Monday in a feisty, final televised debate of Bostons historic mayoral contest.

Essaibi George repeatedly faulted Wu on a range of topics, from Wus support of rent stabilization to her call for a fare-free public transportation system.

Wu, who has maintained a lead in a series of recent polls, defended those pledges while largely agreeing with Essaibi George on a handful of other issues, including the need for better, more affordable child care.

The contest will make history with the winner  whether Wu or Essaibi George  becoming the first woman and first person of color to be elected mayor in the citys long history. Until now, Boston has only elected white men to the top political office.

One flash point during the hourlong debate came during a discussion on the best way to respond to a tent city near the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard thats become the regions most visible symbol of the opioid epidemic, with many residents of the encampment struggling with addiction. On Monday, city officials began clearing the sprawling homeless camp.

Essaibi George has called on the city to rebuild a bridge to a city-owned island to re-open a substance use recovery center there. The bridge to Long Island was demolished in 2015 after it was deemed unsafe.

The neighboring city of Quincy has fought efforts to rebuild the bridge.

Im not going to walk away from a battle with Quincy, Essaibi George said. It makes me wildly crazy that we have not helped people in crisis.

Wu said rebuilding the bridge could take years and costs hundreds of millions  money she said would be better spent helping those struggling with addiction and homelessness immediately. She has suggested creating a ferry service to the island and rehabbing city-owned properties to serve to offer housing and treatment.

She said the city has to approach the problem through a public health lens.

We cannot wait to take immediate action, she said.

Both candidates said they would stick with a plan requiring all city workers be vaccinated and would continue a mask mandate in schools. They both also said they support pre-kindergarten education.

The two clashed on how best to address Boston's soaring housing costs.

Wu again said the city needs to introduce rent stabilization. Massachusetts voters backed a 1994 ballot question banning rent control statewide. Wu acknowledged she would need the help of state lawmakers to create a rent stabilization plan.

Across the city in every neighborhood it is clear that housing in on peoples minds, she said. The status quo isnt working.

Essaibi George said rent control is a failed policy and the city should focus on other programs like helping first-time homeowners come up with a down payment and bolstering public housing and affordable housing programs.

It has been tried and it has failed, she said of rent control. We talk about the status quo? Rent control is the status quo.

The two also disagreed on the best way to address the citys transportation and traffic woes.

Essaibi George again criticized one of Wus centerpiece proposals  a fare free public transit system. Wu said the proposal would help the citys economy, address climate change and help those who take the bus or subway to school or work.

Essaibi George said the cost of the proposal is staggering and would fall on the backs of Boston residents.

The hour-long debate came as Bostonians have already begun casting their ballots at early voting locations across the city.

Early voting runs through Friday. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 2.

The 36-year-old Wu, whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from Taiwan, grew up in Chicago and moved to Boston to attend Harvard University and Harvard Law School. Essaibi George, 47, a lifelong Boston resident, describes herself as a first-generation Arab-Polish American.

The citys previous elected mayor  Democrat Marty Walsh  stepped down earlier this year to become U.S. Secretary of Labor under President Joe Biden.

Walsh was replaced on an acting basis by Kim Janey, who was sworn in March 24 as Bostons first female and first Black mayor. Janey ran for mayor but failed to be one of the two top vote-getters during last months preliminary election.

The winning candidate will be sworn in Nov. 16, just two weeks after the election.

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BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Gov. John Bel Edwards and other Louisiana officials will travel Thursday to Scotland to attend an international climate change conference packed with world leaders.

The governor's economic development and coastal policy advisors will be among the 11-member group heading to the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Glasgow for the week-long trip, not counting the state troopers who travel as Edwards' security detail.

Edwards will attend meetings from Oct. 31 through Nov. 4, before returning to Louisiana, according to his office. The Democratic governor had previously announced plans to attend the conference. His office Monday released more details about the travel dates and who will join the governor.

Edwards said he intends to promote Louisiana as a location for clean energy projects, in response to climate change.

In Glasgow, we will have the opportunity to meet people from all over the world, representing different governments, but also corporations and different sectors of the clean energy movement," Edwards said in a statement.

Make no mistake: an industry-wide transition to cleaner, less environmentally impactful energy production and utilization is going to happen regardless of if Louisiana participates, so its best that Louisiana be a leader in this space, he said.

Even as he leads one of the nation's top oil and gas producing states, Edwards has set a goal to cut Louisiana's net greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2050. A climate change task force he created is working on a strategy document, due next year, for how to reach that goal.

Among those who will travel with Edwards to Scotland are Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson, Natural Resources Secretary Thomas Harris, the governor's spokesperson Christina Stephens, other economic development officials, the head of Edwards' climate task force and several members of the Governor's Office of Coastal Activities.

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To help pay for his big economic and social agenda, President Joe Biden is looking to go where the big money is: billionaires.

Biden never endorsed an outright wealth tax when he campaigned for the White House last year. But his more conventional proposed rate increases on the income of large corporations and the wealthiest Americans have hit a roadblock.

That leaves a special tax on the assets, not the income, of billionaires being proposed by a Senate Democrat as a possible way to help pay for child care, universal prekindergarten, child tax credits, family leave and environmental initiatives.

Biden has pledged that his programs will not add a penny to the deficit, which means selling to Congress and voters a tax on the wealthiest .0005% of Americans. Some details on the proposed billionaires tax:

HOW WOULD IT WORK?

Essentially, billionaires earn the bulk of their money off their wealth. This might be from the stock market. It could include, once sold, beachfront mansions or the ownership of rare art and antiquities. A triceratops skeleton.

This new tax would apply solely to people with at least $1 billion in assets or $100 million in income for three straight years. These standards mean that just 700 taxpayers would face the additional tax on increases to their wealth, according to a description obtained by The Associated Press of the proposal of by the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

On tradeable items such as stocks, billionaires would still pay a tax even if they held on to the asset. They would be taxed on any increases in value and take deductions on losses. Under current law, those assets get taxed only when they are sold.

Billionaires would also face an additional tax on nontradeable assets such as real estate and business interests once those assets are sold. During the first year of the proposed tax, the billionaires would also owe taxes on any built-in gains that predate the tax.

HOW MUCH MONEY WOULD IT RAISE?

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., estimated on CNN Sunday that the tax would raise $200 billion to $250 billion. This is a meaningful sum, but it's well shy of the nearly $2 trillion in proposed additional spending over 10 years being negotiated right now. This means that additional levies such as the global minimum tax and increased enforcement dollars for the IRS would still be needed to help close the gap.

And the forecasts for revenue from the wealth tax are highly debatable.

Its just impossible to implement, said Allison Schrager, a senior fellow at the conservative Manhattan Institute. Theres a lot of evidence that these things dont work, and Ive never heard an explanation of how this could be workable.

WHY WOULD BIDEN GO THIS ROUTE?

The president would rather raise corporate tax rates and rates on wealthy individuals. That was his initial proposal, but he's got to appease Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz. Those are the two make-or-break Democratic votes in the evenly split Senate.

Sinema objected to higher rates, which brought the wealth tax into play as an alternative.

The idea gained steam after the publication of French economist Thomas Piketty's book Capital in the Twenty-First Century. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., made a 2% wealth tax a trademark policy in the 2020 presidential primaries, and fellow candidate Bernie Sanders, the senator from Vermont, proposed his own wealth tax.

Biden never jumped on that bandwagon. But he did make higher taxes on the wealthy a key promise, saying no one earning less than $400,000 would pay more.

IS A WEALTH TAX CONSTITUTIONAL?

If a wealth tax were to become law, it probably would be challenged in court.

The likely case comes from Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution. It states that direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers. What does that mean? It means that revenues from "direct taxes must reflect the population of the states, which is a problem because billionaires tend to cluster in places such as California and New York.

If that's the case, how does the federal government charge income and payroll taxes? That's because of the 16th Amendment. It allows Congress to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States. So what really matters is whether the Supreme Court would interpret a wealth tax as a direct tax on property that is unconstitutional or whether it's essentially a tax on income that is permissible.

ARE BILLIONAIRES REALLY THAT RICH?

Seems that way.

There is a legitimate debate about the optimal forms of taxation. Is it better for the economy for the wealthy to keep their assets invested in new businesses? Or is it better for some of their money to go to the government to help pay for programs such as child care, universal pre-K and shifts to renewable energy?

What is clear is that the wealthy do have money to tax, should the government wish to do it.

America's billionaires have seen their collected wealth surge 70% since the start of the pandemic to more than $5 trillion, according to an analysis by the pro-wealth-tax Americans for Tax Fairness and the Institute for Policy Studies Program on Inequality. That gain from March 18, 2020, to this past month is equal in size to Biden's spending plans over 10 years.

Right now, billionaires are not paying a dime in taxes on their fabulous income gains from their stock holdings during the pandemic, said Frank Clemente, executive director of Americans for Tax Fairness. The billionaires income tax would tax the increase in the value of those assets each year just like workers wages are taxed."

There were 614 U.S. billionaires at the start of the pandemic; the total has now grown to 745.

Part of what makes the coronavirus unique is that many poorer Americans also became wealthier, but they did so at a much slower pace than billionaires.

Federal Reserve data indicate that the net worth of the bottom 90% of Americans  a group that includes the middle class  rose by roughly 22%. For many Americans, the wealth increase reflected a rising stock market, higher home values and unprecedented government aid in the form of direct checks and forgivable payroll loans to small businesses.

CAN BILLIONAIRES ESCAPE TAXATION?

They've found ways before.

They can hire armadas of lawyers, accountants and others to minimize their tax burdens. The news outlet ProPublica revealed various tax shelters with IRS data earlier this year, and the recent Pandora Papers showed there is a global industry to shelter the assets of the politically powerful and extremely wealthy.

The ProPublica investigation showed that Warren Buffett paid an average rate of 19%. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos paid 23%, while Tesla's Elon Musk was at roughly 30%. The top tax rate on income earned from labor is 37%, but the tax on capital gains is a lower 20% and that favors those with extreme wealth. The lower capital gains rate can also encourage more investment in new companies that help the economy grow.

A White House analysis in September indicated the country's 400 wealthiest families paid an average federal income tax rate of 8.2% between 2010 and 2018. The administration's fundamental message is that a rate this low is unfair because middle class families often pay a greater share of their income in taxes.

The bottom-line question for Democratic lawmakers is how to close or at least narrow the escape hatches for those with extreme wealth. It could require calculations such as the deferral recapture amount and other technicalities that are likely to baffle most of America. But the writing of the tax law and its enforcement will determine just how successful a wealth tax would be  and perhaps the fate of Biden's big agenda as well.



Associated Press writer Will Weissert contributed to this report.

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GREENBELT, Md. (AP)  Two neo-Nazi group members intended to engage in terrorist activity before FBI agents arrested them ahead of a pro-gun rally in Virginia, a federal judge concluded Monday.

U.S. District Judge Theodore Chuangs decision to apply a terrorism enhancement in sentencing the men favors prosecutors recommendation that both of them get 25 years in prison.

Chuang heard starkly different portraits of the two defendants as he prepares to sentence them at separate hearings on Thursday at the federal courthouse in Greenbelt, Maryland.

Prosecutors said Canadian Armed Forces reservist Patrik Jordan Mathews and U.S. Army veteran Brian Mark Lemley Jr. planned to carry out a massacre inspired by their white supremacist ideology. Defense lawyers say an undercover FBI agent tried in vain to bait the two damaged military veterans into developing a plan for violence at a January 2020 gun rights rally at Virginia's state Capitol in Richmond, Virginia.

FBI agents arrested Lemley and Mathews and a third member of a white supremacist group called The Base. The group has been a leading proponent of accelerationism, a fringe philosophy that advocates using mass violence to hasten societys collapse.

Lemley and Mathews pleaded guilty in June to gun charges. They weren't charged with any violent crimes.

But the judge agreed to apply a terrorism enhancement to their sentences, which significantly increases the recommended prison sentences for Mathews and Lemley under federal sentencing guidelines.

It doesnt much matter what the specific motivation was, Chuang said. But the idea that they were intending to replace the U.S. government is relevant to this enhancement.

Prosecutors called them domestic terrorists who prepared for a civil war, discussed how to break racist South Carolina mass killer Dylann Roof out of death row and talked about assassinating a Virginia lawmaker.

The court's probation office calculated a sentencing guidelines range of 33 to 41 months imprisonment in both cases. Lemley's lawyer is seeking a sentence within those guidelines, while Mathews attorney is seeking a prison sentence of 33 months.

Chuang isn't bound by any of those recommendations.

Defense attorneys said an undercover FBI agent who visited Lemley and Mathews at their Delaware apartment nine days before the rally tried to cajole them into developing a plan for Virginia. The defense lawyers said the two men decided instead to go meet other members of The Base in Michigan on the weekend before the Virginia rally.

The FBI installed a closed-circuit television camera and microphone in the Delaware apartment. The surveillance equipment also recorded them discussing their intent to kill federal agents, destroy rail lines and power lines, and derail trains, prosecutors said.

Its more than just idle talk, Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Windom said Monday. There is a core purpose for why they want to do these things.

Defense attorney Ned Smock said Lemley, an Army combat veteran who served in Iraq, was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder after he returned home. Lemley ultimately fell into a black hole of conspiracy theories and propaganda during a dark time in his life, Smock said.

But the defense lawyers said the hundreds of hours of conversations recorded by the FBI didnt capture any proof that Lemley and Mathews planned or intended to carry out a terrorist attack.

Everything is a stream of consciousness, Smock said. Ideas come up. Theyre discarded and never come up again.

The government is asking you to make a giant leap of faith, said Joseph Balter, one of Mathews lawyers.

Mathews and Lemley pleaded guilty to charges, including illegally transporting a firearm and obstruction of justice, for destroying cellphones when FBI agents raided their apartment.

The third co-defendant, William Garfield Bilbrough IV, was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty in December to helping Mathews illegally enter the U.S. from Canada in 2019.

The case against the three men charged in Maryland was part of a broader investigation of The Base. In January 2020, authorities in Georgia and Wisconsin arrested four other men linked to the group.

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NEW YORK (AP)  The National Labor Relations Board said there was sufficient interest to form a union at an Amazon distribution center in New York, after union organizers on Monday delivered hundreds of signatures to the agency  a key step in authorizing a vote that could establish the first union at the nation's largest online retailer.

This is the second unionizing attempt in the past year at Amazon. Workers in Alabama resoundingly defeated an effort earlier this year, but organizers there are asking federal officials for a do-over.

Organizers delivered more than 2,000 signed union-support cards to the NLRB's Brooklyn office after launching the effort in April. The specific number of signatures was not immediately available.

This is a small victory," said Christian Smalls, a former employee of the retail giant who now leads the fledgling Amazon Labor Union, adding, We know the fight has just started.

As part of its petition to hold a union vote, organizers must have submitted signatures from at least 30% from the roughly 5,500 employees who the union says work at four adjoining Amazon facilities that it seeks to represent under collective bargaining.

Mondays development puts the company on notice that the NLRB has determined that union organizers have met the minimum threshold for Amazon to formally acknowledge and to respond to the union-organizing petition. That means the company must post notices on its premises that the union is seeking to become the bargaining representative for thousands of Amazon workers on Staten Island.

The company could have several avenues to challenge the effort, including contesting the number of employees that union organizers used to calculate the minimum signatures they needed.

Were skeptical that a sufficient number of legitimate employee signatures has been secured to warrant an election," Amazon's spokesperson, Kelly Nantel, said in a statement.

If there is an election, we want the voice of our employees to be heard and look forward to it. Our focus remains on listening directly to our employees and continuously improving on their behalf, Nantel said.

While a vote is not yet certain, organizers hailed the formal filing of their petition as an important step to forming a union.

This was the easy part," Smalls said of the signature gathering. Convincing at least 50% of the workers to vote yes is the hard part.

Smalls says he was fired last year after organizing a walkout to protest working conditions, although Amazon said he repeatedly violated company policies.

NLRB staff members started counting the cards soon after they were delivered, and union organizers were confident that they had met the minimum necessary. They had planned a rally outside the Staten Island distribution center Monday evening.

Following the count, the NLRB ordered Amazon to provide a roster of employees who would be covered by the proposed union and set November 15 as the start of hearings on the union-organizing petition.

If an election is held, the NLRB said it will conduct voting by secret ballot. Smalls proposed that the election be held on March 30, the day he was fired.

If organizers in New York succeed, it could launch other union drives across the companys vast empire, which includes more than 100 fulfillment centers and nearly 1 million employees across the United States.

Amazon employees have complained about long work hours, insufficient breaks and safety, with Smalls and others likening working conditions to modern-day sweatshops. The employee turnover rate has also been a cause of concern.

The union efforts on Staten Island come as Amazon is on a hiring binge. It announced in September it wants to hire 125,000 delivery and warehouse workers and is paying new recruits an average of $18 an hour in a tight job market. Thats in addition to the 150,000 seasonal workers it plans to bring on for the holidays.

The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union had led the effort to form a union at the Alabama facility that was defeated in April.

A hearing officer for the NLRB found in August that Amazon potentially interfered with the Alabama election. And the RWDSU is now waiting for a decision from an NLRB regional director to see whether the hearing officers guidance will be sanctioned. But even with a second election, labor experts say a union victory there is a long shot.

The New York City organizing drive is taking place without the support of a national union.

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The Montana State News Bureau's Holly Michels this week talks about her coverage of St. Peter's Health, the hospital in Helena, saying their doctors and other staff were threatened and had their medical judgement questioned by three public officials, including Republican Attorney General Austin Knudsen.

This isn't the first time Knudsen, whose office disputed the hospital's description of the incident, has waded into local matters. Michels will explain about the attorney general getting involved with another case in Helena and how his actions differ from his predecessors.

This podcast from the Montana State News Bureau is created in partnership across five newsrooms  the Billings Gazette, the Helena Independent Republic, the Missoulian, the Montana Standard and the Ravalli-Republic. You can support this podcast and our efforts by subscribing. Visit any of these newspapers websites, and click on the Become a Member button at the top of the home page. We appreciate your support of local journalism.

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Amid fallout from the Facebook Papers documents supporting claims that the social network has valued financial success over user safety, Facebook on Monday reported higher profit for the latest quarter.

The company's latest show of financial strength followed an avalanche of reports on the Facebook Papers  a vast trove of redacted internal documents obtained by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press  as well as Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugens Monday testimony to British lawmakers.

Facebook said its net income grew 17% in the July-September period to $9.19 billion, buoyed by strong advertising revenue. Thats up from $7.85 billion a year earlier. Revenue grew 35% to $29.01 billion. The results exceeded analyst expectations for Facebook's results.

The company's shares rose 2.5% in after-hours trading after closing up 1% for the day.

For now, the revenue picture for Facebook looks as good as can be expected, said eMarketer analyst Debra Aho Williamson. But she predicted more revelations and described the findings so far as unsettling and stomach-churning.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg made only a brief mention of what he called the recent debate around our company." Largely repeating statements he made after Haugen's Oct. 5 testimony before a U.S. Senate subcommittee, he insisted that he welcomes good faith criticism but considers the current storm a coordinated effort to paint a false picture" of the company based on leaked documents.

It makes a good soundbite to say that we dont solve these impossible tradeoffs because were just focused on making money, but the reality is these questions are not primarily about our business, but about balancing difficult social values," Zuckerberg said.

Haugen, meanwhile, told a British parliamentary committee Monday that the social media giant stokes online hate and extremism, fails to protect children from harmful content and lacks any incentive to fix the problems, providing momentum for efforts by European governments working on stricter regulation of tech companies.

While her testimony echoed much of what she told the U.S. Senate this month, her in-person appearance drew intense interest from a British parliamentary committee that is much further along in drawing up legislation to rein in the power of social media companies.

Haugen told the committee of United Kingdom lawmakers that Facebook Groups amplifies online hate, saying algorithms that prioritize engagement take people with mainstream interests and push them to the extremes. The former Facebook data scientist said the company could add moderators to prevent groups over a certain size from being used to spread extremist views.

Unquestionably, its making hate worse, she said.

Haugen said she was shocked" to hear that Facebook wants to double down on what Zuckerberg calls the metaverse, the companys plan for an immersive online world it believes will be the next big internet trend.

"Theyre gonna hire 10,000 engineers in Europe to work on the metaverse, Haugen said. I was like, Wow, do you know what we could have done with safety if we had 10,000 more engineers? she said.

Facebook says it wants regulation for tech companies and was glad the U.K. was leading the way.

While we have rules against harmful content and publish regular transparency reports, we agree we need regulation for the whole industry so that businesses like ours arent making these decisions on our own," Facebook said Monday.

It pointed to investing $13 billion (9.4 billion pounds) on safety and security since 2016 and asserted that its almost halved the amount of hate speech over the last three quarters.

Haugen accused Facebook-owned Instagram of failing to keep children under 13  the minimum user age  from opening accounts, saying it wasnt doing enough to protect kids from content that, for example, makes them feel bad about their bodies.

Facebooks own research describes it as an addicts narrative. Kids say, This makes me unhappy, I feel like I dont have the ability to control my usage of it, and I feel like if I left, Id be ostracized, she said.

The company last month delayed plans for a kids version of Instagram, geared toward those under 13, in order to address concerns about the vulnerability of younger users.

Pressed on whether she believes Facebook is fundamentally evil, Haugen demurred and said, I cant see into the hearts of men. Facebook is not evil, but negligent, she suggested.

It was Haugen's second appearance before lawmakers after she testified in the U.S. about the danger she says the company poses, from harming children to inciting political violence and fueling misinformation. Haugen cited internal research documents she secretly copied before leaving her job in Facebooks civic integrity unit.

The documents, which Haugen provided to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, allege Facebook prioritized profits over safety and hid its own research from investors and the public. Some stories based on the files have already been published, exposing internal turmoil after Facebook was blindsided by the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riot and how it dithered over curbing divisive content in India. More is to come.

Representatives from Facebook and other social media companies plan to speak to the British committee Thursday.

Haugen is scheduled to meet next month with European Union officials in Brussels, where the bloc's executive commission is updating its digital rulebook to better protect internet users by holding online companies more responsible for illegal or dangerous content.

Under the U.K. rules, expected to take effect next year, Silicon Valley giants face an ultimate penalty of up to 10% of their global revenue for any violations. The EU is proposing a similar penalty.



See full coverage of the Facebook Papers here: https://apnews.com/hub/the-facebook-papers



Associated Press writer Marcy Gordon in Washington contributed to this report.

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BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP)  French far-right leader Marine Le Pen held talks Tuesday with populist Hungarian Prime Minster Viktor Orban in Budapest, a meeting the two politicians said advanced the cooperation of Europe's nationalist forces.

At a news conference in Hungary's capital following the meeting, Le Pen lambasted what she said was emerging ideological hegemony in the European Union, and she urged deeper cooperation among nationalist political parties that favor diminishing the EU's power over its member nations.

We have to have convergence, and this has to be our mode of existence, Le Pen said.

The visit reflected growing efforts by both Orban and Le Pen to consolidate the European right, including politicians and parties that share their anti-immigration views and opposition to the EU exercising certain legal powers over the bloc's 27 national governments.

Le Pen offered support to Orban in his governments conflict with the EU, which has accused Hungary of backsliding on essential rule of law commitments like media freedom and the independence of the judiciary. The EU has initiated legal action against Hungary and has yet to approve billions in post-pandemic recovery funds.

My message to the Hungarians is hold on and keep up, said Le Pen, who is expected to run in France's presidential election next year. You are projecting bravery to the nations of Europe and to freedom fighters.

Le Pen has also extended her support to Poland, which has a similar battle with the bloc. Last week, she met with Polish President Mateusz Morawiecki, a key Orban ally, on the sidelines of an EU summit in Brussels.

After that meeting, Le Pen tweeted that she and the Polish president had discussed the unacceptable blackmail of Poland by the EUs executive commission.

The bloc has accused Warsaw of undermining the independence of the judiciary and is threatening sanctions over Morawieckis insistence that Polish law trumps EU law.

But Le Pen on Tuesday emphasized the primacy of national laws, whether they comply with EU rules or not.

When sanctions are used to threaten people, especially Hungary and Poland, these are all efforts for new types of European hegemony," she said.

Le Pen's meeting last week with Morawiecki shocked many in Poland since the countrys ruling Law and Justice party has long refused to cooperate with the far-right politician over her warm relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin  a sensitive topic in the country that was long dominated by Russian and Soviet rule.

Orban receiving Le Pen in Hungary's capital also represented a pivot from the prime minister's earlier reluctance to be associated with the European far-right. In a 2019 interview for American magazine The Atlantic, Orban firmly ruled out any cooperation with the French politician, saying she was a red line."

"I have nothing at all to do with Madame Le Pen, Orban said in the interview.

But at the Tuesday news conference, Orban called Le Pen a sovereigntist and praised her for extending support to Hungary in its conflicts with the EU.

He said that Le Pen would be a partner in renewing the European right, and that this renewal can only happen if we enter into alliances with one another.

Both politicians are preparing for key elections next spring, with Orban facing the most serious challenge to his power since he took office in 2010.

Le Pen is aiming to unseat French President Emmanuel Macron but facing a potential challenge from rabble-rousing television pundit and author Eric Zemmour, whose anti-Islam and anti-immigration rhetoric has won over some of Le Pens base, according to polls.

Orban met Zemmour in Budapest last month, part of a series of meetings with right-wing nationalist politicians since his ruling Fidesz party left its center-right European political group, the European People's Party, in March.

Orban declined Tuesday to endorse either Le Pen or Zemmour, saying it was a decision for the French people.



Angela Charlton in Paris and Vanessa Gera in Warsaw contributed.

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

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Ill start by stating the obvious: property taxes have been rising for years in Missoula. Ive now met with thousands of Missoulians in my ward, listening to their concerns. We certainly have pressing issues to deal with. However, nothing gives folks more apprehension going forward than rising taxes. Were concerned with being able to remain in the community we love, and for many, the community we grew up in.

What is a tax? One common definition: a compulsory financial charge or some other type of levy imposed on a taxpayer by a governmental organization in order to fund government spending and various public expenditures. This definition illustrates that taxes take many forms here in Missoula. An overly simplistic illustration used recently by my opponent, Stacie Anderson, references the city general fund tax as the sole taxation levied on ones tax bill, and averages only about 29% of that bill (as if only is supposed to make the figure more palatable to taxpayers). Again, payment is compulsory  failure to pay means the government can ultimately seize your property and forcefully evict you.

Heres the thing: the taxes paid by Missoulians are much more than that 29%. Special districts for roads and parks, enacted 10 years ago, have risen over 1,900%. Every taxpayer in the city pays them. Theres the MUTD: Missoula Urban Transportation District (Mountain Line), compulsory to many in the city to pay for a service that may not even exist in their neighborhood. Theres SIDs, water fees, sewer fees, hookup fees, development fees, impact fees, licensing fees, inspection fees, user fees, fines  all of which fund increased government spending, all of which are compulsory if you want water in your home, build a home, conduct business, start a business, stay in a hotel, to name a few. Im not evaluating right or wrong with all of this, but illustrating how were indeed taxed well beyond that 29%.

Anderson advocates for a new local option sales tax, or tourist tax, in exchange for lower property taxes. Consider this: A tourist may spend a week or two here per year. Theyll spend money, cautious to what extent they do so knowing the added cost of the tax. Itll most certainly discourage spending and revenue going into the local economy. Meanwhile, Missoulians living here will be paying this tax all year long. Its a regressive tax that will hurt the poor, including those struggling to remain in their homes. All the while were supposed to believe this will result in the lowering of property taxes? I remind everyone  the city budget rose by approximately $20 million this year, and has risen the previous 12 years. Even with the benefit of $14 million in American Recovery Plan Act funds, local government continues to grow, playing an ever-growing role in our everyday lives. Yet, my opponent blames the state for limiting revenue?

The surest way to reducing taxes is cutting wasteful spending. Lets concentrate on core services  infrastructure, including high-tech infrastructure, emergency services, roads, utilities, promoting development. Each year every department within the city should submit a zero-based budget, a method of budgeting in which all expenses must be justified for each budget cycle (fiscal year). Every function within an organization is analyzed for its needs and costs. For the MUTD: if your neighborhood has no bus service, you shouldnt pay. Additionally, lets scrutinize unnecessary Tax Increment Financing (TIF) that siphons general fund revenue for decades.

On council, Ill fight to protect your tax dollars! Tax reform by creating new taxes? We all know better than that!

Bob Campbell is a candidate for Missoula City Council, Ward 5.

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Paul Gosar has been basically caught red-handed.

According to bombshell reporting from Hunter Walker for Rolling Stone, the far-right Arizona congressman promised Jan. 6 rioters blanket pardons. Not only that, but according to Walker, he was so confident about those pardons he called them a done deal.

Walker tells The New Abnormal host Molly Jong-Fast all about it in Tuesdays episode, including his secret weapon for getting such big scoops: chiefs of staff.

Subscribe to The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, Amazon Music, or Overcast. To listen to our weekly members-only bonus episodes, join Beast Inside here. Already a member? You can listen here and sign up for new episode email alerts here.

Oftentimes, they know more, theyre closer to what happened on any given story. And also, they are less schooled in the art of not saying things, Walker says says.

Case in point: He saw Gosars chief of staff hanging out with a Jan. 6 rioter on the social platform Clubhouse. (Walker was also sent strongly worded emails from Lauren Boeberts chief of staff, but we digress.)

So even though all of these things are coming to light about Jan. 6, whats next? Molly asks. Well, a lotbut not much at all.

They have a couple degrees of response. The first one is a reprimand, which is essentially a strongly worded letter that is theoretically a problem I guess if youre in a competitive district and have a challenger. The next one is a censure, which is a stronger, strongly worded letter, Walker explains.

At some point, getting booted from ones position by the House is an option, but with Republican support, the real cards will lie with the DOJ, says Walker.

How Marjorie Taylor Greene Basically Bought Her House Seat

Plus! The reporter re-enacts actual emails hes gotten from people on the Hill, and by people we mean GOP-ers like Dr. Sebastian Gorka.

Then, David Pepper, author of Laboratories of Autocracy: A Wake-Up Call from Behind the Lines, tells Molly how Republicans in state houses (like his home state of Ohio) are all slowly burning our democracy to the groundand passing on the playbook to other states as they go. But not if we do this first.

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For the next week, Virginia is the focal point for American politics and the culture war that is gripping our nation.

With one week to go before Virginias gubernatorial election, Democrats are desperately trying to fend off what would be a crushing and embarrassing defeat, with President Biden himself set to rally the troops in Arlington on Tuesday evening. But if Republican Glenn Youngkin can hold Trump voters and win back college-educated suburbanites who bolted during Trumps two campaigns, he has a shot at pulling off a stunning upset over Democrat Terry McAuliffe.

The polls are tight and (anecdotally) the burbs are Youngkin country. In 2020, my northern [Virginia] neighborhood featured [a] few lawn signs for Biden. More common were those saying Any Sentient Adult, Never Trump writer Mona Charen tweeted. Now, Youngkin signs abound.

For those who believe the only way to extirpate Trumpism from the Republican Party, a victory by YoungkinTrump in a vest, his detractors call himwould only convince the GOP that they can continue to avoid confronting and condemning Trumps Big Lie (not to mention the Jan. 6 insurrection) and still prosper. For Democrats who have more pragmatic interests in mind, a Youngkin victory would have a chilling effect, making moderate Democrats in Congress even less likely to support any part of Bidens agenda that seems overly ambitious. So why is this happening in a state that many had written off as now permanently blue?

Terry McAuliffe Enters the Taylor Swift Phase of Desperation in Virginia Governors Race

There are several reasons for this. First, Joe Biden is doing about as poorly among independents as Donald Trump was at this point in his presidency. Second, Trumps sins are not transferable to other Republicans, and Youngkins persona (which feels more like Mitt Romney or Tim Pawlenty) makes it easier for Never Trump conservatives to come home.

But the more interesting reason stems from the culture warwhich is real, and is turning suburban voters against McAuliffe and the Democratic party. In Virginia, this battle has played out largely under the rubric of education, with the sub-issues being critical race theory (CRT) and trans-inclusive policies (allowing transgender students to use the bathroom or locker room that matches their gender identity at school).

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The center of this culture war is Loudoun County, where a male student allegedly assaulted female students in the girls bathroom. An alleged victims father, Scott Smith, was later arrested at a school board meeting for disorderly conduct.

When the School Board abruptly ended the meeting, I was confronted and taunted by activists supporting the School Boards bathroom policy, he told DCs WJLA TV. I am not a domestic terrorist. I am a concerned father who loves his family and will protect them at every turn.

During that same meeting, the countys superintendent erroneously claimed, We dont have any record of assaults occurring in our restrooms. (That same superintendent later apologized for the district's mishandling of the allegations.)

When Smith was first thrown out of the meeting, the footage went viral, and the consensus seemed to be that this is what happens when right-wing rubes get caught up in these false narratives. But I havent seen anyone who covered or promoted this story (and applauded his arrest) revisiting it now that Smith seems like a much more sympathetic figure, an understandably frustrated father leveling a credible charge involving his daughters assault rather than a deranged zealot pushing an ideological agenda.

During a recent gubernatorial debate, McAuliffe added to the sense that parents should mind their own business, saying as much. Im not going to let parents come into schools, and actually take books out, and make their own decision, McAuliffe said, later adding I dont think parents should be telling schools what they should teach. (He later stormed out of an interview over related topics.)

People on the left oscillate between saying firstly that this is all overblown Republican propaganda and then that these parents just need to get with the programas though theres no contradiction between those two things. While stumping for McAuliffe, former President Barack Obama dismissed this as fake outrage and phony trumped-up culture wars. Meanwhile, The Washington Post published a piece on Monday explicitly saying that parents have no right to shape their schools curriculum. So which is it?

Anyone who has been around long enough to see progressives applaud themselves for accomplishments they previously claimed werent happening knows the truth: progressives never tire of progress.

But sometimes the voters do.

Glenn Youngkins Complicated History on Critical Race Theory

Another issue that is driving the backlash in the burbs is critical race theory. I have hesitated to write about thisbut having lived in Northern Virginia for about 15 years (I now reside in West Virginiajust seven miles from Virginias Loudoun County), I have a feel for these suburban votersmany of whom hated Trumpand why they are voting Youngkin.

This is what happens when identity politics goes mainstream and white suburbanites, formerly privileged to not have to think about race, become race-conscious.

Let me explain. When political alliances were largely about opposing philosophical ideas (not merely ones preordained identity), and when mainstream America at least aspired to being a colorblind society, then white suburbanites didnt really feel a strong tribal identity (at least, on a conscious level).

For many white suburbanites, this probably describes a period of time roughly lasting from 1980 to 2016.

But in a world where being a white, cisgendered Christian middle-class suburbanite all but automatically renders you a colonizer and a predator, you can either accept your new status happily or join the side that is fighting back.

In this scenario, being liberal is an esoteric nicety that we can no longer afford. Once upon a time, it was said that a conservative was a liberal who has been mugged. Today, a conservative is a liberal who has been canceled (or fears the prospect of it). The left is coming for us all, now, including people who think of themselves as allies.

This awakening was ironically expedited by Trump, a man that I and many other conservatives could not support because he posed a unique threat to liberal democracy. But with Trump gone, its back to shirts and skins, Republican pollster Gene Ulm told me recently.

Again, there are a lot of factors at play in Virginia, including Bidens poor performance and sagging numbers and Youngkins temperamentally courteous, wonky persona that makes it hard for McAuliffe to try and run against Trump instead of his actual opponent.

But what Democrats also should be grappling with is that instead of incorporating college-educated suburbanites into a permanent governing majority for a centrist Democratic Party (as might have happened after 2020), they have created a newly radicalized suburban backlash against their woke-ism.

Speaking of the burbs, theres an underrated (if underdeveloped) 1980s movie starring Tom Hanks and Carrie Fisher called The Burbs that may hold some lessons for us. Its ostensibly a black comedy, but by editing out about 15 minutes of the campy parts, you could end up with a Jordan Peele-esque horror film that would hold up today.

The plot involves Hanks character who, during a weeks staycation, grows increasingly convinced that his new neighbors are Satanists. The trope suggests that a sort of paranoia befalls bored affluent suburbanites with too much time on their hands. (Spoiler alert: Hanks character appears obsessed for most of the movie, but he turns out to be right, which is an analogy for suburbanites who sense a legitimate threat that is sometimes obscured by conspiracy theories.)

I started thinking about this film again recently, when it became clear that a lot of suburbanites are being awakened to problems in their own neighborhoods. No, their neighbors arent Satanists (despite what QAnon may tell you), but their way of life is being threatened and condemned, while they go about mowing their lawns and enduring hellish commutes into D.C.

As long as Trump isnt around to mess up the GOP coalition (by keeping some of us at home), Democrats should think twice about poking this bear. Otherwise, they may find they have awoken a sleeping giant. In the burbs.

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This is a critical time for children in Montana. Montanas children continue to face great challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, including isolation and learning barriers. On top of that, thousands experience trauma, a lack of access to basic needs, foster care involvement and parental substance use.

At my school in Missoula, a wonderful community of children from diverse cultures and backgrounds, some of our students face these extreme challenges. They are not alone. One in six Montana children (16.7%) live in families experiencing food insecurity, up from 10.3% in 2018, according to Feeding America. Montana has the second-highest percentage of children in foster care nationwide, with close to 4,000 children in care.

In addition, trauma and mental health issues for parents and children are a major cause for concern, with youth suicide rates in Montana among the highest in the nation.

To effectively address these challenges, communities must work together to build innovative responses that are personalized to the needs of each child and their family.

Fortunately, a new partner is investing in Montanas kids in a deep and lasting way, to help children who face significant obstacles develop their own unique talents and dream their own big dreams.

This week, the national organization Friends of the Children announced they are launching a Montana chapter  bringing them to 24 locations nationwide. Friends of the Children-Montana will pair children with a paid, professional mentor, called a Friend. Friends full-time jobs will be to work with children one-on-one, from as early as age 4 through high school graduation  12+ years, no matter what.

Friends of the Childrens model is distinct and courageous. National researchers and evaluators have hailed their approach as a promising solution to supporting youth and families impacted by foster care, poverty and childhood trauma.

The organization has a big impact on the lives of children in the program: 92% go on to enroll in post-secondary education, serve our country, or enter the workforce; 83% receive a high school diploma or GED; 93% remain free from juvenile justice system involvement; and 98% successfully wait to become parents until after their teens.

As part of the program, Friends of the Children will be implementing a Two-Generation (2Gen) approach that focuses on supporting youth and their parents or caregivers in achieving overall health and well-being. Friends of the Children's 2Gen model acknowledges that it is not just children that need support, but their family, caregivers and siblings as well.

A recent study supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation found that Friends of the Children builds social capital and positively impacts outcomes for both the children enrolled in the program and their parents. Friends provide parents with social support, share insights about their children, and connect them to community resources.

Another report conducted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention named the practice of mentoring and the presence of a caring adult as a promising strategy to both prevent and lessen the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs).

Through our coordinated efforts, we can help children and their families build skills and resiliency to achieve their goals, whatever they may be. In the first year, Friends of the Children-Montana will serve children in the greater Missoula area through a number of partnerships, including existing relationships with Lowell Elementary School and Mountain Home Montana. Friends-Montana will work with the many community organizations that already do important and impactful work, particularly in Missoula.

In addition, Friends-Montana will build deeper relationships with outlying rural and tribal communities, to ensure that a regional approach is adopted in the early years.

Montana can become a better place because of the efforts we make, together.

Barbara Frank is principal of Lowell Elementary, a Title 1 Missoula school. She is a founding board member of Friends of the Children Montana (friendsofthechildren.org).

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Overuse of the incorrect and inaccurate term personal responsibility by the 2021 Montana Legislature and our King of Covid Governor has led to several unnecessary Covid-related long-term illnesses, deaths, loss of family income, and children losing their parents or siblings.

The term responsibility is defined as having an obligation to do something, or having control over or care for someone, as part of ones job or role. The more accurate term they should have used is personal choice." Montanans who choose to not get vaccinated are exercising a right not their responsibility.

However, an unvaccinated person who, through their choice and daily activities, infects multiple others  many of whom they dont know and to whom they cannot be traced  exhibits little to no responsibility, personal or otherwise.

Our governor has led many fellow Montanans to believe they should be responsible only for themselves when nothing could be further from the truth. He has also demonstrated through his own policies that choosing to not get vaccinated has failed.

If his COVID-related policies were successful the support of the National Guard would not be necessary in multiple Montana hospitals, which are now full of unvaccinated followers (97% of COVID cases).

In denying the science, our Legislature and governor have sentenced many of our citizens to death or long-term illness, and many more to the unnecessary loss of parents, children, and siblings for nothing more than to stand on an irrelevant political point.

Governor, Legislators: use the common sense we all hoped you had when you were elected and reverse recent decisions. Give back the authority to those educated in health care to take the steps science deems necessary for the recovery of our population and thereby the recovery of our economy. Without healthy citizens, our workforce is depleted, home sick, quarantined, or dying  along with much of the customer base  and our economy suffers.

Your decisions are like a chain of falling dominoes and are having unintended consequences. It all may be stopped with a simple move  mandate masks, or at least allow local officials and business owners to do so to protect their citizens, their workers, and their clients (and therefore their businesses).

Further, mandating vaccinations is nothing new. Vaccinations are mandated for all school children: Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella (chickenpox), Polio, Hepatitis B, Diphtheria, Pertussis and Tetanus. If are you not mandating COVID vaccinations as well, you are just not as interested in the welfare of Montana citizens as were your predecessors.

To the unvaccinated I say this: if you get sick and test positive for COVID, go home, get in bed, and wait to see what develops. Just because you made a bad choice does not give you the right to take a bed in a hospital which may be needed by someone with an urgent medical emergency from an accident or other illness. They did not make a choice  you did. If you take a hospital bed, you may be responsible for the death of a fellow Montanan and their associated family member issues, which is not you taking personal responsibility."

Understand, it is the unvaccinated, who dont believe the science and make the most noise against protective measures, who have caused this latest overloading of our healthcare system. If you dont believe in COVID or the science behind the efforts to stop it, stay out of the healthcare system and let it take care of those who are not trying to win a Darwin award  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Darwin_Awards.

C. Burt Caldwell is a retired director of manufacturing in the automotive and space industries, a member of local boards and councils, and has been active in Montana politics for over a decade. He lives in Missoula.

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When I was working in Washington and the need for a photo of a pit bull came up, I always used to joke with former city administrator Brent Hinson that we needed to stage a shot. I recommended that we put a steak in the back pocket of his pants and put him in a room with a pit bull. I called this the Coppertone 2 photo.

It was a joke. Not even a very good one at that. It is predicated on the idea that pit bulls are dangerous and particularly bite-y animals, and this isnt necessarily the case. I recall one time when I went with a friend to visit a person in Davenport. The person opened her front door and a pit bull came bounding out at me, hopping up and driving be back against a wall. The pit bull stood on its hind legs, leaning against me and licking my face with a huge smile. (Yes, dogs do smile.) It was then I realized I had not been attacked, but that it wanted hugs and kisses and was particularly playful. I ended up becoming good friends with the dog.
The SPARK team also presented an outline for summer 2022.The team hopes to start securing teachers for the program by March.

An update and timeline was given for the Student Center project at Muscatine High School. The construction bid for the project will open Feb. 3, 2022, with board approval on Feb. 14. Construction would then begin on June 1 and would be completed on Aug. 15. Also presented to the board were a basic floor plan of the center, which included an updated nurses office and a therapy area, as well as three interior options.

The MHS Centralized Kitchen project's location was changed to the Board Office location due to student safety concerns. The bid for this project would open in April 2022, with the board approving it that same month. Construction would then begin in May 2022, and is expected to last an entire year. A basic floor plan for this project was also presented.

The open session ended with a brief Certified Enrollment update from Superintendent Clint Christopher. Overall, the district is down 87 students from last year, which Christopher considered concerning, though he said this number was lower than the decrease from 2019.
I didnt realize how much I would miss students. These were among the first words from my interview with Dr. Jon Jarrett, associate professor emeritus from the University of Illinois-Chicago and now, tutor at Muscatine Community College. Jons career has been filled with pursuing academic curiosities that have been matched with exceptional career opportunities. After graduating from Muscatine High School, he attended Iowa State University. He had been inspired by a teacher at MHS, Mark Butterworth, who took the time to tell him about quantum mechanics, and relativity. This planted a seed for Jon who determined to find out everything he could about these, and other related fields. This pursuit took him to Cornell University and the University of Chicago. He had teaching assignments at Harvard, University of Vermont and Cornell. Recently Jon moved back to Muscatine, and we have been lucky enough to engage him with our students.

I see Jon in the Success Center at Muscatine Community College, typically assisting students with a variety of subjects. Today, he was invited to meet our students in a General Physics class. I am quite convinced that his passion for learning easily transferred to the students in that class who may be preparing for a career in engineering, medicine or other STEM-related fields. With any luck, those students will stay in Muscatine and contribute their talent to local business and industry.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  Former Weather Underground radical David Gilbert has been granted parole after 40 years behind bars for his role in a deadly 1981 Brinks robbery that was a violent echo of left-wing extremism born in the 1960s, the state corrections department said Tuesday.

Gilbert, 76, has been imprisoned since shortly after the infamously botched armored car robbery in which a guard and two police officers were killed. He became eligible for parole only after his 75 years-to-life sentence was shortened by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in August, hours before he left office.

Gilbert appeared before the state parole board Oct. 19 and was subsequently granted parole, Thomas Mailey, a spokesperson for the New York state corrections department, said Tuesday.

He will be able to leave Shawangunk Correctional Facility in the Hudson Valley next month.

Supporters  including his son, San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin  lobbied to have Gilbert join other defendants in the case who have been released from prison.
The administration condemned the military takeover and dissolution of a transitional civilian-led authority and demanded the release of all officials detained in the overnight coup, which led to the arrest of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok. Price said the administration was watching developments very closely and will not hesitate to hold those responsible for the coup to account.



UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. special envoy for Sudan says barricades in the capital of Khartoum are burning and occasional gunshots can be heard so there is a risk that there would be more violence or more clashes.

The Sudan Doctors Committee says three protesters were killed after security forces fired on crowds that flooded in the streets in the wake of a coup Monday. It says 80 people were wounded.

Volker Perthes spoke in a press briefing from Khartoum to reporters at U.N. headquarters Monday. He said that after the army carried out the coup and closed the entrances, bridges and airport in the city, quite a number of parties and unions asked people to take to the streets to condemn the takeover. He says thousands came out across the country to demand a return to civilian government.
A software developer has managed to install the Google Play Store on Windows 11, allowing users to download and use official Android apps on their PCs without emulation.

ADeltaX, a UX designer at the University of Trento in Italy, has posted instructions on GitHub and a 10-minute tutorial video on YouTube.

The process is elaborate and involves using a Linux distro to create a modified version of the Windows Subsystem for Android (WSA).

WSA is the new component that enables support for Android apps on Windows 11 installed via the Microsoft Store.

The workaround should probably not be attempted by those inexperienced with coding in Linux or Windows, but several users have reported the app store is functional and that their downloaded Android apps are working as intended on Windows 11.

The full video with instructions on installing the Google Play Store on Windows 11 is embedded below.

Integrated support for Android apps was a major feature Microsoft announced for Windows 11 but was not ready by its launch in early October.

Last week, Microsoft started to allow Windows Insider beta users in the US to try out Android apps through the Amazon Appstore hosted in the Microsoft Store.

These apps support Windows features like Snap Layouts, pinning to the Start menu or Taskbar, and interaction via mouse, touch, or pen input.

They are also integrated into the Alt+Tab task switcher, allowing users to move between them quickly.

For users who already have access, the apps can be found on the new Microsoft Store. If they choose to download the app, they are redirected to the Amazon Appstore, which will handle the installation and updating of the apps.

Testing using this official method currently only supports a limited pool of apps, including a few mobile games, reading apps, and kids apps.

ADeltaXs workaround allows access to all of the apps on the Google Play Store and does not require users to go through Microsofts official channel via the Amazon Appstore.

Certain apps do not work, including those that require OpenGL support.

Now read: Google slashes Play Store commission
Following a welcome rainstorm and on the eve of COP26, now is a good time to embrace yet another axiom for a sustainable future: Groundwater is not free.

A recent letter in The St. Helena Star addressed concerns of new wells in the Sulphur Creek corridor, which are permitted under the citys agricultural exemption. Science tells us that there is relationship between a depleted aquifer and dry streambeds, due to the lack of groundwater discharge. A recent article in the Napa Valley Register described the concept as controversial. Regardless of how you may feel on this matter, we all have to agree to one principal: Groundwater is not free.

The forthcoming Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) from the County must address thresholds for well water extraction. The city of St. Helena should do the same. If this does not happen, the state will have the authority to limit extraction. Monitoring groundwater use, either with direct water metering or well pump metering courtesy of PG&E, provides the information that we all need. There are easily implemented models for this in other agricultural counties in Northern California, where farmers pay for groundwater.

With all that is at stake, the grape growers must ensure a sustainable future. This is not unlike the implementation of the countys Conservation Ordinance in 1991. The growers bought in and Napa County became the gold standard for erosion control measures. The aquifer is arguably our most valuable resource. The first step is buying in: Groundwater is not free.

Christopher Cole

St. Helena
Napa County after a drought-denting  but not destroying  deluge had a section of Silverado Trail closed, wildfire dangers tamped down and reservoirs starting to see runoff.

And all of this happened in a newly born rain season that hasnt even made it to Halloween. A few storms last week proved to be a mere warmup to virtually 24 hours of non-stop, pounding rain from Saturday night into Sunday night.

Can you bust a two-year drought of almost historic proportions in only a few days?

Quality journalism doesn't happen without your help. Subscribe today! Support local news coverage and the people who report it by subscribing to the Napa Valley Register. Special offer: $1 for your first 6 months!

Well, no, definitely not, said Mike Pechner of Fairfield-based Golden West Meteorology.

We dont yet know the totality of a coming winter with La Nina conditions, Pechner said. La Nina winters are dry 60% of the time. It will take a normal rain year to end the drought.

No, National Weather Service meteorologist Brayden Murdock agreed. It made quite a dent ... were in quite a deficit, but this is a big step. Think of it as win, but one step forward after taking three steps back.

But what a step forward. The start to rain season 2021-22 is stupendous.

Rain totals taken from the local One Rain gauge network as of Monday morning tell the soggy story. The city of Napa corporation yard for October has had 8 inches, St. Helena 14.12 inches, Angwin 14.72 inches and Mount Veeder 16.90 inches.

Napa State Hospital as of 4 p.m. Sunday had 6.78 inches for October and the new rain season. For comparison, it had 10.24 inches during the entire, previous rain season. The average rainfall for an entire season is about 25 inches.

Then there are the 24-hour totals from the atmospheric river rain conditions over the weekend. Pechner said Mount Veeder had 11.74 inches, Angwin 10.6 inches and the Napa corporation yard 7.37 inches.

Whether Napa County set any one-day records remains to be seen. Murdock said the National Weather Service didnt know as of Monday morning when it was still monitoring the storm in Monterey.

But the National Weather Service reported San Franciscos 4.02 inches over 24 hours looks to be the fourth wettest day there on record. Downtown Sacramento set a one-day record with 5.44 inches, breaking the previous record set in 1880.

Rain from the weekends atmospheric river conditions left a mark on Napa County. County spokesperson Leah Greenbaum on Monday said the country received hundreds of reports of mudslides, downed trees, rock slides and localized flooding.

Its going to be a few days to get everything cleaned up, she said.

For drivers, one event of note was a washout that undermined a section of Silverado Trail between Meadowood Lane and Madrone Knoll Way. Silverado Trail  a major north-south Napa Valley roadway  was closed in both directions as of Monday pending repairs.

Its very early in the assessment, but we hope to have the road opened in a week or less, county Public Works Director Steven Lederer said Monday morning.

Another was the closure Monday morning of Highway 128 at Lake Berryessa between Markley Cove and Monticello Dam, which was closed for several hours before crews could clean up a mudslide. Greenbaum said a report done after the 2020 LNU Lightning Complex Fire identified this as a severe burn area vulnerable to a slide.

Lake Hennessey reservoir, a major city of Napa water source in the mountains east of Rutherford, within a few days rose from 58% full to 66% full. During the 2020-21 rainy season, it actually lost water.

Creeks that barely ran last rainy season over the weekend surged with water, as did the upvalley stretches of Napa River. They went from bone-dry to reborn in the course of a few days.

Hillsides that looked primed to burn a couple of weeks ago as of Monday were soaked. Pechner said the storms put an end to fire season.

The earliest weve seen the end of fire season in, I dont know how many years, he said.

Last year, Napa County faced the threat of public safety power shutoffs because of fire danger weather into December.

The weekend's atmospheric river sent Napa River levels near the city of Napa spiking. Levels near Oak Knoll Avenue north of the city of Napa went from about 2.6 feet to more than 21 feet in 14 hours.

Flood control gates on McKinstry Street shut at 9 p.m. Sunday in anticipation that the river might spill into the flood control bypass between the Oxbow district and downtown Napa. Workers scrambled to move portable toilets and other items in the bypass, though they couldnt remove the Oxbow Riverstage.

As it turned out, the river lapped over the weir, but didnt surge through the bypass. Rick Thomasser of the county Flood Control and Water Conservation District said a low tide at peak river stage is probably the reason why.

The thought of the bypass flowing in October with the rain season barely begun is something of a stretch. It hasn't happened since the bypass completion in 2015.

Atmospheric rivers usually happen in December through February, Murdock said. The last time one happened locally in October was 2015.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration describes an atmospheric river as a flowing column of condensed water vapor that produces significant levels of rain and snow. Atmospheric rives are responsible on average for 30% to 50% of normal rainfall on the West Coast.

These atmospheric rivers are about 250 miles to 375 miles wide on average. They are present somewhere on earth at any given time, according to the agency.

Few in Napa County will have any doubt where the location was over this past weekend.

No encore performance is in the immediate forecasts. Napa County might see some rain Tuesday and on the weekend, but as of Monday, the National Weather Service had no drought-busting storms predicted.

You can reach Barry Eberling at 256-2253 or beberling@napanews.com.

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Updated at 5:47 p.m.  A driver was airlifted to a hospital with major injuries Monday afternoon after a crash involving a recreational vehicle and four cars in south Napa County, according to the California Highway Patrol. The wreck forced a partial shutdown of Jameson Canyon Road that lasted more than two hours.

The crash was reported at about 3:32 p.m. on Jameson Canyon (Highway 12) and Kirkland Ranch Road, CHP reported on its online incident log. A person at the wheel of a Ford sport-utility vehicle was turning from southbound Kirkland Ranch onto eastbound Jameson Canyon when the RV, also headed east, broadsided the SUV, according to CHP Sgt. William (Brad) Bradshaw.

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The Ford driver was flown by helicopter to Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center, and two other people were taken to the Queen by ambulance, Bradshaw said. Those patients conditions were not available late Monday, and it was not immediately clear how the other three cars were involved in the crash.

The person driving the RV apparently failed to yield at the Jameson Ranch-Kirkland Ranch crossing, where a power outage Sunday night during a major Northern California rainstorm knocked out the stoplights, according to Bradshaw.

Eastbound Jameson Canyon Road was closed after the crash, and there were intermittent closures in the westbound lanes, the Napa County Sheriff's Office said in a Nixle alert. The sheriff's office announced the road's full reopening just after 5:40 p.m.
There was little public complaining early this fall when Gov. Gavin Newsom signed AB 101, making a semester of ethnic studies a graduation requirement for all California high schools beginning later this decade, also creating a statewide model curriculum.

Newsoms signature followed his 2020 veto of a draft curriculum that drew a huge outcry because it contained obvious biases and falsehoods. The rejected curriculum was then substantially rewritten and improved.

But that did not resolve all its problems. For example, Williamson Evers, a former U.S. assistant secretary of Education, and other opponents blasted the new model curriculum as anti-capitalist, anti-white, and burdened by faddish ideology. It could lead students to learn as a fact that American society has always been divided pretty universally between oppressors and victims, said Evers and some others. It also encourages children to identify strongly as group members, and never mind individual qualities and achievements.

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Jewish groups noted the new curriculum was forced to include seven guardrails to prevent it from purveying widespread promotion of anti-Semitic tropes present in the rejected first draft, ranging from the false claim that Jews ran most of the trans-Atlantic slave trade to claiming they gave up much of their identity to assume white privilege in modern America.

The fact that no less than seven guardrails were deemed necessary for preventing AB 101 from facilitating  anti-Semitism is itself a stunning indictment of the bill and the dangers it poses for (Jews), said Tammi-Rossman Benjamin, director of the AMCHA Initiative, which tracks anti-Jewish activity in academe.

The guardrails, she noted, do not stop local school districts from hiring authors of the extremely flawed, unfactual original version to write their own local programs. Nothing requires local districts to use the state curriculum, with its protections and corrections.

But Rossman-Benjamins is among the less powerful and influential of Jewish groups. More prominent are outfits like the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles and the Jewish Family and Childrens Services Holocaust Center in the San Francisco Bay area, among other groups.

As vocal as Rossman-Benjamin was, and despite written opposition from thousands of Holocaust survivors and 74 Jewish groups, major Jewish organizations like the Wiesenthal Center and Jewish federations in both San Francisco and Los Angeles stayed largely silent as Newsom signed AB 101, although an earlier Wiesenthal Center publication said it remained concerned.

A possible clue about the relative silence could be found in a Newsom press release issued two days before the bill signing. This announced formation of a new Governors Council on Holocaust and Genocide Education, complete with a list of organizations it will fund.

These included $10 million to the Wiesenthal Center, $2.5 million for expansion of the Holocaust Museum LA (run by the Los Angeles Jewish federation), $1 million for the renovation of the Tauber Holocaust Library and Archives in the Bay Area, part of San Franciscos Jewish Family and Childrens Services, and other grants totaling about $40 million.

The proximity of the two events suggested to some that there may have been linkage between those grants and the muted reaction of major Jewish organizations when Newsom signed AB 101.

It would be naive to believe that mere field trips to Holocaust-related museums could counteract years of teaching anti-Semitic tropes like those in the original state ethnic studies plan. Some of those are likely to show up in local curricula of school districts that hire the original authors to write local programs for use at all grade levels.

For example, one district alone (Hayward Unified) allocated $40 million for some of those failed authors to write such a program and to hire teachers for it. So a single districts planned spending matches the statewide budget for Newsoms nascent anti-genocide program.

For sure, the signing of AB 101 pushes future ethnic studies curriculum battles to the local level in Californias more than 1,000 school districts. Rossman-Benjamin has noted that the Jewish community and other opponents lack the bandwidth (and manpower) to fight these battles in every district.

Meanwhile, Newsom appeased African American and Latino groups unhappy with his 2020 veto of the original ethnic studies plan, while the largest Jewish organizations said little or nothing.

Newsom now claims to have assured that all kids will soon start learning about their own ethnic histories, but has made official a program that still contains historical errors and biases, with strong potential for many more such problems.

Thomas D. Elias writes the syndicated California Focus column. He is author of the book, The Burzynski Breakthrough: The Most Promising Cancer Treatment and the Governments Campaign to Squelch It.
Housing aid is threatened in Washington as the Build Back Better Act reconciliation package moves toward a vote. The original $327 billion housing portion is by far the largest and most needed investment in affordable housing in decades. This aid must be protected from deep reductions if we are to address Californias and the nations housing crisis.

The pandemic laid bare the deep inadequacy of our existing housing support system, especially in California, where a million people are homeless (more than a third of the nations unhoused) and more than 5 million households struggle to make rent or pay the mortgage. As have other states, California has had to step up with eviction moratoria and short-term rental aid to keep lower-income families in their homes. The proposed federal aid package is a more rational approach.

The House and Biden administration proposals combine a significant increase in rent subsidies with new investments to build new and protect the existing supply of affordable homes. This is groundbreaking.

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Increasing housing funding  particularly direct subsidies that ease crushing financial burdens on low-income renters  is essential, as demonstrated in the Terner Center for Housing Innovations 2021 framework titled Building a Better Ladder of Housing Opportunity in the United States. Without a larger attack on the fundamental obstacles that prevent the housing supply from expanding and increasing access to high-opportunity neighborhoods, however, we risk merely pumping more money into an already constrained market. This would push up prices further and reinforce historic patterns of racially inequitable development.

The Build Back Better package would make existing programs, such as housing choice vouchers, HOME housing block grants, and public housing, more cost-effective.

For instance, the package was to include $4.5 billion to increase housing supply by underwriting efforts by state and local governments to overhaul and reform land use and zoning rules. This would incentivize states and local governments to rewrite or remove the regulatory barriers that have contributed for decades to the acute shortage of housing across the price spectrum. (House negotiators were working on a final bill Sunday.)

Also, $7.5 billion for a new U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department-administered Community Restoration and Revitalization Fund. This would support community-led projects seeking to stabilize neighborhoods and encourage equitable development. There also is $500 million set aside for community land trusts and shared equity homeownership.

Such discretionary grants and support projects will help overcome the effects of years of housing disinvestment. Coupled with provisions to amend restrictive zoning, this funding could be a powerful tool to reduce housing inequity and increase access to quality homes in good neighborhoods.

The historic $90 billion in renter assistance includes:

 $15 billion for Project-Based Rental Assistance to prevent displacement of low-income renters from rapidly gentrifying neighborhoods.

 $500 million for supportive services to help households that qualify for housing choice vouchers to apply. Project-based rental subsidies preserve existing homes for extremely low-income residents.

 Housing choice vouchers that could hit the street within 12 months of legislation enactment.

These are exactly the kinds of long-term support programs California desperately needs to leverage the billions of dollars of state funds signed into law earlier this fall. The state funds provide capital to accelerate affordable housing production and convert hotels and commercial buildings to long-term housing for the homeless.

When the political negotiations in Washington focus solely on total numbers, new efforts to underwrite neighborhood housing development and tackle local regulatory obstacles are at risk. Negotiators must not miss the huge opportunity to invest in needed housing. They need to retain the key components of the House and Biden administration proposals. Failing to take an integrated approach to housing needs risks squeezing one part of the economy at the expense of another.

Carol J. Galante is the founder of the Terner Center for Housing Innovation at the University of California, Berkeley. Barry Zigas is a senior fellow at Consumer Federation of America. They wrote this for Calmatters, a public interest journalism venture committed to explaining how Californias Capitol works and why it matters.
China fines Alibaba for violating antitrust law

36 new cases of coronavirus reported in Karabakh

UK Premier Johnson considering boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics

Artsakh President visits Askeran city, meets with regional capitals youth

President to Russia Patriarch: Armenian people highly value your efforts aimed at achieving peace in our region

870 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Why Britney Spears did not attend Paris Hilton's wedding?

8 injured in tragic accident on Yerevan-Gyumri motorway are discharged from hospital

China, Russia, US agree to promote political dialogue on Iran

Azerbaijan mother, son commit suicide on same day

One pedestrian dies on the spot, other hospitalized after hit by car in Armenia village area

US beauty consultant is accused of killing woman by injecting silicone into her butt

Brazil Amazon deforestation reaches highest level in 15 years

Newspaper: Armenia soldiers are prohibited from filming episodes from their service, posting them on internet

Newspaper: Armenia opposition is forming large-scale resistance network

Armenia President visits National University of Singapore

Gia, wanted by French law-enforcement authorities, found at Armenia's Bagratashen checkpoint

Leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia agree to meet in Brussels

European Council: Pashinyan and Aliyev agreed to establish direct communication line at level of defense ministers

Armenia's Representative to OSCE speaks about Azerbaijan's recent attack at Permanent Council's session

Armenia serviceman Meruzhan Harutyunyan, killed in Syunik Province, was buried at Yerablur Military Pantheon

Armenian News-NEWS.am's special report: Drive from Kapan to Tchakatashen is 150 km instead of previous 8 km

3 Armenian servicemen killed during Nov. 16 Azerbaijani attack posthumously awarded presidential medals

Left-wing trade unions hold protest against Turkey's Erdogan in Izmir

European Team Chess Championship: Armenia women's team was also defeated

Armenia FM presents situation following Azerbaijani attack during meeting with Lithuanian Seimas Vice-President

European Team Chess Championship: Armenia tie match with Spain

Armenia delegation covers Azerbaijan's Nov. 16 attack during online meeting of CSTO PA Permanent Commissions

Armenia PM receives delegation led by Vice President of Lithuanian Seimas

Tata Steel India: Levon Aronian wins 2nd place

Lavrov, Cavusoglu discuss bilateral ties and regional issues

Karabakh: Azerbaijani side, in Shushi, transfers bodies of 3 Armenian soldiers killed on Nov. 16

NEWS.am daily digest: 19.11.21

Armenian Embassy in Russia: Armenia citizens - mother and child - evacuated from Afghanistan

Georgia refuses to be a part of '3+3' format with regard to South Caucasus

The occupied Hadrut of our days (PHOTOS)

Arabologist: Photo of map of Turkic world shown by Erdogan and Bahceli is simply a gift for Armenian diplomacy

Situation is tense in Armenia's Kasakh, residents protesting against acting village head (LIVE)

Opposition With Honor legislature faction MP: No one knows if Armenia petitioned to Russia for military assistance

Armenia opposition MP: There is a threat that Baku will always get what it wants through use of force

Lavrov is certain that the Russia-Armenia-Azerbaijan summit will take place

Ann Linde: OSCE working very closely with Russia to resolve Karabakh conflict

Karabakh FM congratulates newly appointed Abkhazia counterpart

Dollar relatively stable in Armenia

Armenia parliament majority members do not deny possibility of exchange of territories with Azerbaijan

Armenia ruling party MP: Public and competent authorities need to know circumstances behind captures of soldiers

Armenia ruling party MP assures that situation on the border is currently stable

Armenia ruling party MP: Confidentiality of process of preparing for demarcation is strictly necessary

Armenia PM: Citizens of EEU countries will be able to receive loans in all territories of member states

Armenian serviceman, 19, dies in Georgia's Akhalkalaki

Kazakhstan health minister visits Erebuni Medical Center in Armenia (VIDEO)

After rumors over relations with Lady Gaga, Bradley Cooper first speaks about their relationship

Armenia legislature majority faction lawmaker: Russia military intervention is not end in itself

Premier League agrees on new 2bn deal

High commissioner: Diaspora is considering ways to help hundreds of Ethiopia Armenians

Opposition With Honor parliament faction: Armenia authorities trying to push territorial losses issue to backburner

Danny Alves to get lowest salary set in La Liga

Jennifer Lopez is going to marry Ben Affleck

Legislature majority faction MP: Armenia authorities do not make any demands on Russia

Opposition Armenia Faction in parliament: Authorities are unable to distinguish between priority and secondary issues

3 more die of coronavirus in Artsakh

Bruno Retailleau: France must support Armenia more firmly against aggressions by Azerbaijan

Penelope Cruz speaks about relations Pedro Almodovar

Armenia parliament majority faction: Border delimitation preparation process will start from point zero

Why Covid cases increasing despite vaccinations?

PM: Armenia exports to other EEU countries increased by 27.8%

Armenias Pashinyan: Azerbaijan provocations are aimed at disrupting arrangements reached by trilateral statements

Adele presents new song from her album

California Armenian couple accused of fraud flee leaving their 3 children behind

Yerevan mobile vaccination teams 2-day work schedule is announced

799 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Katherine Clark: Azerbaijan must acknowledge and respect Armenian sovereignty

Eurasian Intergovernmental Council enlarged meeting underway in Yerevan

Russia peacekeepers patrol along Karabakh border delimitation line

MOD: According to current data Armenia has 6 military casualties as result of Tuesdays attack by Azerbaijan

Turkish Islamic preachers organization denies reports of his death

Kim Kardashian, Pete Davidson are officially dating

Germany plans to make COVID-19 vaccination mandatory for professional athletes

Newspaper: What happened to missing Armenia soldiers during recent hostilities?

Armenia MOD dismisses reports about not allowing officers with higher rank than major to go up to combat positions

Several Russia clubs want to acquire Mkhitaryan

US virtually completes development of new tactical nuclear gravity bomb B61-12

Newspaper: Officers with higher rank than major not allowed to combat positions during recent hostilities in Syunik

Tallinn Trophy 2021: Armenias Slavik Hayrapetyan comes in 3rd

Opposition MP: Granting corridor to Azerbaijan through Syunik Province will be gravest crime against Armenia

US Department of State representative says why Azerbaijan is not invited to Summit for Democracy

Armenian human rights activists to submit letters to ECHR regarding soldiers captured and considered missing

Armenia FM stresses importance of addressable response to Azerbaijan's actions during talk with Greek counterpart

European Team Chess Championship: Armenia women's chess team defeated by Ukraine

Kim Kardashian helps 30 female footballers of Afghanistan leave Pakistan for London

Ex-ruling party official: Armenia authorities found reason for MOD's resignation after his visit to Karabakh

23rd European Team Chess Championship 2021: Armenia and Azerbaijan tie match

Republican Party of Armenia spokesperson: Nikol Pashinyan gave a confessional testimony in parliament yesterday

Armenia President talks about states' collective responsibility at Bloomberg New Economy Forum

Turkish website reports poisoning of Fetullah Gulen

Armenia FM holds phone talks with Cypriot counterpart, presents situation created after Azerbaijani attack

Mirzoyan, Zas discuss CSTO's possible actions to stabilize situation on Armenia-Azerbaijan border, if necessary

Mothers of deceased servicemen demand Armenia PM's resignation

Azerbaijani Armed Forces open fire at tractor in Armenia's Verin Shorzha village

Putin: Events unfolding on Armenia-Azerbaijan border attest to fact that situation has not calmed down in the region
Well-known Istanbul Armenian linguist Sevan Nisanyan wrote on Facebook that the police stopped him at the airport on his way back to Athens after a short foreign trip, and they deported him from Greece without giving an explanation.

Nisanyan stressed that he has been married to a Greek citizen for four years and has not had any problems with Greek law enforcement agencies.

"After escaping from a Turkish prison in 2017, I was living in a small village on the Greek island of Samos. In Turkey, I was able to live on royalties coming from my books publications in Turkey and social media, as well as going on small trips. But now I do not know where I will go and how to start a new life in another country when I am 66 years old already," Sevan Nisanyan added.
China fines Alibaba for violating antitrust law

36 new cases of coronavirus reported in Karabakh

UK Premier Johnson considering boycott of Beijing Winter Olympics

Artsakh President visits Askeran city, meets with regional capitals youth

President to Russia Patriarch: Armenian people highly value your efforts aimed at achieving peace in our region

870 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

8 injured in tragic accident on Yerevan-Gyumri motorway are discharged from hospital

China, Russia, US agree to promote political dialogue on Iran

Azerbaijan mother, son commit suicide on same day

One pedestrian dies on the spot, other hospitalized after hit by car in Armenia village area

US beauty consultant is accused of killing woman by injecting silicone into her butt

Brazil Amazon deforestation reaches highest level in 15 years

Newspaper: Armenia soldiers are prohibited from filming episodes from their service, posting them on internet

Newspaper: Armenia opposition is forming large-scale resistance network

Armenia President visits National University of Singapore

Gia, wanted by French law-enforcement authorities, found at Armenia's Bagratashen checkpoint

Leaders of Azerbaijan and Armenia agree to meet in Brussels

European Council: Pashinyan and Aliyev agreed to establish direct communication line at level of defense ministers

Armenia's Representative to OSCE speaks about Azerbaijan's recent attack at Permanent Council's session

Armenia serviceman Meruzhan Harutyunyan, killed in Syunik Province, was buried at Yerablur Military Pantheon

Armenian News-NEWS.am's special report: Drive from Kapan to Tchakatashen is 150 km instead of previous 8 km

3 Armenian servicemen killed during Nov. 16 Azerbaijani attack posthumously awarded presidential medals

Left-wing trade unions hold protest against Turkey's Erdogan in Izmir

Armenia FM presents situation following Azerbaijani attack during meeting with Lithuanian Seimas Vice-President

Armenia delegation covers Azerbaijan's Nov. 16 attack during online meeting of CSTO PA Permanent Commissions

Armenia PM receives delegation led by Vice President of Lithuanian Seimas

Lavrov, Cavusoglu discuss bilateral ties and regional issues

Karabakh: Azerbaijani side, in Shushi, transfers bodies of 3 Armenian soldiers killed on Nov. 16

NEWS.am daily digest: 19.11.21

Armenian Embassy in Russia: Armenia citizens - mother and child - evacuated from Afghanistan

Georgia refuses to be a part of '3+3' format with regard to South Caucasus

The occupied Hadrut of our days (PHOTOS)

Arabologist: Photo of map of Turkic world shown by Erdogan and Bahceli is simply a gift for Armenian diplomacy

Situation is tense in Armenia's Kasakh, residents protesting against acting village head (LIVE)

Opposition With Honor legislature faction MP: No one knows if Armenia petitioned to Russia for military assistance

Armenia opposition MP: There is a threat that Baku will always get what it wants through use of force

Lavrov is certain that the Russia-Armenia-Azerbaijan summit will take place

Ann Linde: OSCE working very closely with Russia to resolve Karabakh conflict

Karabakh FM congratulates newly appointed Abkhazia counterpart

Dollar relatively stable in Armenia

Armenia parliament majority members do not deny possibility of exchange of territories with Azerbaijan

Armenia ruling party MP: Public and competent authorities need to know circumstances behind captures of soldiers

Armenia ruling party MP assures that situation on the border is currently stable

Armenia ruling party MP: Confidentiality of process of preparing for demarcation is strictly necessary

Armenia PM: Citizens of EEU countries will be able to receive loans in all territories of member states

Armenian serviceman, 19, dies in Georgia's Akhalkalaki

Armenia legislature majority faction lawmaker: Russia military intervention is not end in itself

High commissioner: Diaspora is considering ways to help hundreds of Ethiopia Armenians

Opposition With Honor parliament faction: Armenia authorities trying to push territorial losses issue to backburner

Legislature majority faction MP: Armenia authorities do not make any demands on Russia

Opposition Armenia Faction in parliament: Authorities are unable to distinguish between priority and secondary issues

3 more die of coronavirus in Artsakh

Bruno Retailleau: France must support Armenia more firmly against aggressions by Azerbaijan

Armenia parliament majority faction: Border delimitation preparation process will start from point zero

PM: Armenia exports to other EEU countries increased by 27.8%

Armenias Pashinyan: Azerbaijan provocations are aimed at disrupting arrangements reached by trilateral statements

California Armenian couple accused of fraud flee leaving their 3 children behind

799 new cases of COVID-19 confirmed in Armenia

Katherine Clark: Azerbaijan must acknowledge and respect Armenian sovereignty

Eurasian Intergovernmental Council enlarged meeting underway in Yerevan

Russia peacekeepers patrol along Karabakh border delimitation line

MOD: According to current data Armenia has 6 military casualties as result of Tuesdays attack by Azerbaijan

Turkish Islamic preachers organization denies reports of his death

Newspaper: What happened to missing Armenia soldiers during recent hostilities?

Armenia MOD dismisses reports about not allowing officers with higher rank than major to go up to combat positions

US virtually completes development of new tactical nuclear gravity bomb B61-12

Newspaper: Officers with higher rank than major not allowed to combat positions during recent hostilities in Syunik

Opposition MP: Granting corridor to Azerbaijan through Syunik Province will be gravest crime against Armenia

US Department of State representative says why Azerbaijan is not invited to Summit for Democracy

Armenian human rights activists to submit letters to ECHR regarding soldiers captured and considered missing

Armenia FM stresses importance of addressable response to Azerbaijan's actions during talk with Greek counterpart

Ex-ruling party official: Armenia authorities found reason for MOD's resignation after his visit to Karabakh

Republican Party of Armenia spokesperson: Nikol Pashinyan gave a confessional testimony in parliament yesterday

Armenia President talks about states' collective responsibility at Bloomberg New Economy Forum

Turkish website reports poisoning of Fetullah Gulen

Armenia FM holds phone talks with Cypriot counterpart, presents situation created after Azerbaijani attack

Mirzoyan, Zas discuss CSTO's possible actions to stabilize situation on Armenia-Azerbaijan border, if necessary

Mothers of deceased servicemen demand Armenia PM's resignation

Azerbaijani Armed Forces open fire at tractor in Armenia's Verin Shorzha village

Putin: Events unfolding on Armenia-Azerbaijan border attest to fact that situation has not calmed down in the region

Lithuania supports Armenia's territorial integrity

NEWS.am daily digest: 18.11.21

Ex-ruling party official: Incumbent authorities created deliberately organized chaos in Armenia

Armenia Prosecutor General's Office to examine news about 6 Azeri servicemen captured and then secretly returned

Dollar goes up in Armenia

Armenia MOD planning training camps for reservists

Sergey Lavrov, OSCE Chairperson-in-Office to discuss assistance to resolve situation in Karabakh

High-tech industry minister receives Chinese recipient of Armenia State Prize for global contributions to IT sector

Eurasian Intergovernmental Council's narrow-format session kicks off in Yerevan

Pashinyan views Eurasian integration as one of Armenia's priorities

Two Armenian citizens found in Afghanistan

Armenian health ministry gets $ 2.5 million to fight COVID-19

OSCE Chairperson-in-Office has telephone conversation with Jeyhun Bayramov

Deceased Armenian soldier Taron Sahakyan's brother refutes news that he was captured and tortured to death

Armenia seeks to develop cooperation in food safety within EEU

Armenia Ombudsman, UNICEF Representative discuss problems with right of children of borderline villages to education

Armenia allocates AMD 462 mln for 4 subvention programs ahead of local self-government elections

Major incidents not recorded in Armenia's border zones as of 2 p.m., operative situation is under army's control

Armenia parliament approves several legislative amendments

PMs discuss prospects for development of Armenia-Kyrgyzstan collaboration
YEREVAN.  The delegation led by the speaker of the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia, Alen Simonyan, on Tuesday met with Harris Georgiades, Chair of Cyprus-Armenia Inter-Parliamentary Committee on Cooperation, the NA informed Armenian News-NEWS.am.

At the meeting the political dialogue of high level between Armenia-Cyprus friendly countries was highlighted. The sides affirmed the priority of the parliamentary diplomacy reserved in the inter-state relations, highly assessing the cooperation between parliaments. In this context the activity of the Inter-Parliamentary Committees on Cooperation functioning in parliaments of the two countries was especially underlined. Simonyan informed about the formation of the Armenia-Cyprus Inter-Parliamentary Committee on Cooperation in the near future, which is a perspective direction for the advancement of the united agendas.

The interlocutors underlined the effective cooperation of the two countries parliamentarians on the international platforms to reach the favorable solution of special importance issues. The NA President stressed the cooperation with Cyprus in the context of the development of Armenia-European Union relations.

At the meeting the necessity of the use of Cyprus-Armenia-Greece parliamentary cooperation format. The Chair of Cyprus-Armenia Inter-Parliamentary Committee on Cooperation underscored that the Armenian parliament speakers current official visit to Cyprus will promote the further deepening and development of the inter-parliamentary and inter-state relations of the two friendly countries.
Story Highlights Congress approval falls six points to 21% in October

Decline mainly due to plunge among Democrats, from 55% to 33%

Democratic approval mirrors last time Democrats were in full control in D.C.

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Americans' approval of the job the 117th Congress is doing slipped six points in the past month to 21%, its lowest thus far in 2021.

Line graph. Monthly trend from January 2020 to October 2021 in percentage of Americans who approve of the job Congress is doing. Approval ranged from 15% to 31% in 2020, with the low point coming in December. It rose in the first quarter of 2021, reaching a peak of 36% in March. After that, it slowly declined and is 21% in October.

While still better than the 15% approval rating at the end of the divided 116th Congress in December, today's reading is well below this year's high point of 36%. That was measured after Congress passed the latest COVID-19 economic relief package, known as the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021.

The latest results are from an Oct. 1-19 Gallup poll showing President Joe Biden's approval rating steady at 42%, though his lowest by one point.

Congress' job approval rating has averaged just 18% over the past decade-plus (since 2010), with individual readings during that time ranging from 9% to 36%. Against that backdrop, today's 21% is about average for this era, even if low for 2021.

Congressional Approval Nosedives Among Democrats

Congress' approval is low because hardly any Republicans (5%) and relatively few political independents (22%) offer positive reviews of the legislative body, at the same time that Democrats' approval has plunged to its lowest level in 2021 -- now 33%, down from 55% in September.

Line graph. Monthly trend from January 2020 to October 2021 in Congress approval by party ID. Approval among Democrats was low for most of 2020, then jumped to 61% in February 2021, but has since varied and dropped from 55% in September to 33% in October. Approval among Republicans has been low in both years, hovering near 20% for most of 2020 and below 10% in 2021. Approval among independents has been close to 20% for most of the past two years, except for the first quarter of 2021, when it was above 30%.

More broadly, most of the variation in congressional approval this year has occurred because of shifts among Democrats.

Sixty-one percent of Democrats approved of the job Congress was doing in February, shortly after President Joe Biden was sworn in, giving Democrats control of both the executive and legislative branches for the first time in 10 years.

Democrats' approval remained high through May, before falling to 38% in June after Congress failed to reach bipartisan agreement on an infrastructure package by Biden's Memorial Day deadline.

Democrats' approval rebounded somewhat over the summer but has plunged again in the latest measure, as disagreement among Democrats over Biden's major spending bill has continued.

As congressional Democrats are still attempting to reach consensus on a spending bill, 33% of Democrats approve and 65% disapprove of the job Congress is doing, essentially a reversal of the February figures (61% approval, 37% disapproval).

Democrats' Reactions to Congress Match Last Time Democrats Controlled D.C.

Republicans and Democrats generally rate Congress more positively when their own party is the majority in both chambers, rather than the minority party or part of a divided government. However, the pattern is particularly pronounced when a party has the trifecta of controlling both houses of Congress and the presidency, as Democrats do today.

The last time the Democratic Party enjoyed this position was from 2009 to 2010, the first two years of Barack Obama's presidency. Democrats' approval of Congress this year has followed nearly the same path as their approval of Congress in 2009.

In both years, Democrats' approval of the Democratic-led Congress rose sharply between January and February, coincident with the new Congress' and president's swearing-in. It then remained high for several months before dipping in June and falling further in October. Congressional Democrats' delay in passing Obama's healthcare reform plan, the Affordable Care Act, may have dampened Democrats' approval in late 2009, just as Democrats' inability to reach consensus on Biden's major social spending bill appears to be frustrating party members today.

Line graph. Monthly trend in Democrats' approval of Congress in 2009 and 2021. In both years, Democratic approval was above 50% from March through May, then fell to 50% or lower in June, recovered slightly in July and August, and fell sharply in October. 36% of Democrats approved of Congress in October 2009 and 33% approve in October 2021.

While Democrats' approval of Congress in 2009 rose to 47% in November, it declined again in early 2010, averaging 35% for the 10 months leading up to the midterm elections that saw a return of Republicans to power in the House of Representatives. As Gallup posited at the time, Obama's frustration with the lack of legislative action on his agenda, as well as general partisan rancor, may have contributed to Congress' low ratings from Democrats.

Bottom Line

As congressional Democrats continue to struggle to reach consensus on the scope of major new social spending, rank-and-file Democrats' approval of Congress has subsided. This is not a new pattern; in fact, it is nearly identical to Democrats' ratings of Congress in 2009, the last time Democrats took the reins in Washington.

With Democrats on Capitol Hill reportedly closer to a deal on Biden's spending bill, Democrats' approval could rebound next month. Whether that persists into 2022 or proves short-lived will depend on whether conflict between different factions in the Democratic caucus continues to stall Biden's agenda or the various sides find a way to unite.

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).
CAS Gemologist launches an OSU themed collection

Media Contact: Jacob Longan | Coordinator of Communications and Marketing | 405-744-7497 | jacob.longan@okstate.edu

Kyla Donell Coker

Kyla Donell Coker has always been fascinated by rocks and jewelry.

As a young child, if she wasnt trying on her mothers and grandmothers jewelry, she was asking questions about the rock formations they passed on family trips to Angel Fire, New Mexico.

Those who knew her were not surprised that she graduated from Oklahoma State University with a geology degree in 2004. Since then, she worked as a geologist, and then later became a Gemological Institute of America (GIA) graduate gemologist and started her own custom jewelry business in 2013.

Someone once told me, Follow your passion and it will always guide you in the right direction. I didnt have anything else that I wanted to learn as much as geology. Even my childhood friends remember me frequently talking about geology and rocks, Coker said.

During her time at OSU, she focused mostly on environmental geology and specifically climate change. She was an OSU Lew Wentz Scholar and utilized her scholarship to study glaciers in Alaska through a program called the Juneau Icefield Research Program (JIRP). JIRP accepts 50 students from around the globe to spend two months traversing the Juneau Icefield doing field research with an expedition approach.

After graduation, she started her career as a geologist with Chesapeake Energy. There were many responsibilities, but also a lot of rewards. Coker found herself learning many valuable skills while making lifelong connections. She then moved to a company in Plano, Texas, called Denbury Resources to expand her knowledge of enhanced oil recovery with carbon sequestration, which some refer to as the green energy side of oil and gas.

It was a very dynamic time. I still keep in touch with a lot of the people that worked there, which is wonderful because we had a lot of great experiences and memories together, said Coker as she reflected on her geology career.

Her passion for geology had always included a passion for gemstones, since gemstones form in the rocks. Her passion began to extend past the traditional work week. During her work days off, Coker began visiting gem and jewelry shows, making friends and professional connections that later would serve her further pursuits.

Eventually she made the decision to pivot her career path, and follow her passion for gemology. She applied to study at the GIA and this is where she later became a GIA certified graduate gemologist.

GIA is the worlds foremost authority in gemology, founded on gemological research and education that sets industry standards to protect consumers across the globe.

When youre passionate about geology, you constantly want to learn more because geology is so dynamic and related to many aspects in the world, so there is plenty to learn. Many say that geologists never really retire and that geology is a lifelong passion, Coker said.

When asked about her time at GIA, Coker said Its an honor to study in such a highly regarded global program.

Regarding the program, she said, It is very precise and intense. You are required to grade a certain number of stones every single day and then complete extensive readings in the evenings. You have cumulative exams almost daily and then at the end, it is a pass-fail test.

While at GIA, Coker additionally got certified as a GIA Accredited Jewelry Professional (GIA A.J.P.).

In 2013, Coker launched her own jewelry company and named it Kyla Donell, reflecting her first and middle name. Donell originates from her aunts names, Donna and Ranell, so its also a special ode to her family heritage.

As a geologist and GIA certified graduate gemologist, Coker has a unique perspective of the typical jewelry industry. Her business values are integrity, transparency, and quality.

After training under some of the top gemologists, she established a global network and now has direct access to rare gemstones, which are sourced from mines or private collections. Also, she meets with clients from around the world to create custom jewelry that tell their personal stories and in addition, offers pieces on her website. Her goal is to make sure each customer walks away with meticulously handcrafted jewelry fitting within their desired budget.

Rather than mass produced jewelry, her business has been focused on working with private clientele, one-on-one, to create pieces that fit their individual style. Coker believes the discerning client should have access to quality gemstones, including rare, one-of-a-kind stones. The experience with designing custom jewelry should be a working collaboration with a professional. The client is truly part of the creative process, in which they feel involved in the making of each piece. This also guarantees the client will be happy with their exclusive finished piece.

I feel like everyone should have access to special jewelry that isnt mass produced and marketed, she said. Ultimately, I really love people. I love working with clients, educating them about their options, creating the vision and making their special piece come to life.

She offers a variety of finished styles and pieces for clients also, which can be found on her website. She always welcomes people contacting her directly through her site with questions, for a free jewelry consultation or regarding any custom jewelry inquiries.

As a lover of her alma mater, Coker searched high and low for orange pieces of jewelry that showed the spirit of Americas Brightest Orange. When she couldnt find what she wanted for that pop of orange for an event, she decided to create a limited-edition collection herself. Using orange Swarovski crystals in either a white or yellow setting, she designed three types of earrings and a matching necklace that can fit any style. The collection can be found on her website www.kyladonell.com.

At the end of the day, gemstones and diamonds are treasures that form within the Earth, Coker said. Humans have unearthed and adorned themselves with them for thousands of years. We are drawn to these treasures and the jewelry we create to wear them should be symbolic of our life and our life story.
Discharged Covid patients will be quarantined: govt

Patients recovering from Covid-19 are to be subject to 14 days quarantine. File photo: RTHK
NASAs James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scheduled to launch December 18 from the European Spaceport in French Guiana, is the largest, most powerful and complex telescope ever launched into space. The $10 billion infrared telescope will complement and extend the discoveries of the Hubble Space Telescope, providing greater sensitivity with its much larger primary mirror and capturing longer wavelengths of light.

JWST is so much more powerful than our best current telescopes100 times Hubbleits going to impact every area of astronomy, just like Hubble did, said Garth Illingworth, a distinguished professor emeritus of astronomy and astrophysics at UC Santa Cruz. And when you look at the UCSC astronomy group, theres no doubt we are well positioned to play a major role in this mission, as weve done with Hubble.

Illingworth himself has been a key player in JWSTs long journey from concept to completionleading initial planning studies, chairing important advisory committees such as the JWST Science Advisory Committee (JSTAC), which he chaired for 8 years, and most recently serving as an external advisor on JWST to the director of NASA Goddard Space Flight Center. JSTAC played a key role in maximizing the science return from JWST by, for example, defining the Early Release Science program, which gives astronomers quick access to fully open, public data, as well as advising NASA on the resources needed to fund JWSTs science programs.

Seeing the telescope as it underwent final tests before being shipped to the launch site, Illingworth couldnt help but think back to his work more than three decades ago on what was then called the Next Generation Space Telescope (NGST). At the time, he was deputy director of the Space Telescope Science Institute (STScI), and Hubble had not even been launched yet.

Its a little unbelievable to see it finished, he said. Although the details of the implementation are very different, the core features of the concept we came up with in 1987 is basically what were flying.

JWST will probe the earliest, most distant galaxies in the universe, peer into stellar nurseries shrouded in dust, and observe faint planets orbiting nearby stars, opening new windows for exploring every phase of cosmic history.

The telescopes 21-foot (6.5-meter) primary mirror enables it to gather more light from faint objects than Hubbles 8-foot (2.4-meter) mirror, and its infrared vision, capturing wavelengths longer than visible light but shorter than radio waves, gives it unprecedented powers. Ultraviolet and visible light emitted by the first stars more than 13 billion years ago has been stretched by the expansion of the universe and is reaching us today as infrared light. Infrared light also penetrates the clouds of gas and dust in which stars and planets form.

Other worlds

UCSC astronomers will be involved in projects within each of the four main science themes JWST will study (first stars and galaxies, galaxies over time, lifecycle of stars, and planetary systems). A large group of UCSC astronomers is studying planets around other stars (exoplanets), one of the most exciting areas in which JWST is expected to open new territory.

Its going to be transformational, said Jonathan Fortney, professor of astronomy and astrophysics and director of the Other Worlds Laboratory at UCSC. JWST will revolutionize the field in terms of telling us about the atmospheres of exoplanets in a way we havent been able to do before. Hubble is great, but it was never designed to get spectra of exoplanets.

A spectrum shows the wavelengths of light from an object and can be used to identify the molecules present in a planets atmosphere. Infrared spectra from JWSTs instruments will reveal the chemical fingerprints of exoplanet atmospheres. Infrared is good for seeing things like water, methane, ammoniareally common molecules in our solar system that we will now be able to see in other planetary systems, Fortney said.

UCSC astronomers will be leading the first observations of exoplanets with JWST through the Early Release Science (ERS) program.

Exoplanet hub

Were on the threshold of a new decade of exoplanet observations that will be characterized by the study of their atmospheres, and UCSC is a hub for atmospheric exoplanet science, said Natalie Batalha, professor of astronomy and astrophysics and principal investigator of an ERS program to study transiting exoplanets.

A transiting exoplanet is one that passes in front of its host star, allowing astronomers to analyze light filtered through the planets atmosphere. Direct imaging of exoplanets is the focus of another ERS program co-led by Associate Professor Andrew Skemer.

Skemer explained that the ERS programs are intended to give the astronomy community a quick assessment of the performance of the telescopes instruments in each of their specific observation modes.

The exoplanet observations are unusual compared to other JWST observations. For transits you need very precise time series, and for direct imaging you have to subtract the glare of the star so you can see the faint planet, he said. Theres never been a telescope like JWST before, so figuring out how to do this optimally is very important, and we want to get these important datasets into the hands of the community as soon as possible. In the process, well be doing some interesting science.

In addition to the ERS programs, UCSC astronomers will be involved in a broad range of projects in JWSTs Cycle 1 programs, including several major exoplanet studies. Batalha said she is particularly excited to learn more about the abundant super-Earths found by NASAs Kepler Mission, for which she was project scientist.

Kepler taught us that the diversity of exoplanets far exceeds the diversity in our own solar system, she said. The most common type of exoplanets are these super-Earths or sub-Neptunes that are intermediate in size between terrestrial planets and giant planets. We need to understand what those planets are like, because that has significant implications for understanding the propensity for life in the galaxy.

Batalha, who leads a NASA Interdisciplinary Consortium for Astrobiology Research, will also be collaborating with Natasha Batalha at NASA Ames Research Center, the principal investigator of the largest exoplanet program in Cycle 1 (and Natalies daughter). Fortney, Skemer, and Aarynn Carter, a postdoctoral scholar working with both Batalha and Skemer, will be leading several other exoplanet projects, including a search for newly formed planets lurking in the disks of protoplanetary material observed around some stars.

Were going to be James Webb exoplanet central here, Skemer said. And thats just the exoplanet research.

First galaxies

UCSC astronomers are also key players in investigations of the earliest galaxies. Professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics Brant Robertson is involved in several major programs using JWST to map the distribution of galaxies in the early universe and study how the first galaxies formed and evolved over time. With its infrared vision and large mirror, JWST will be a powerful time machine, peering deeper into the universe and further back in time than ever before possible.

Robertson serves on the steering committee for the largest single program in Cycle 1, the JWST Advanced Deep Extragalactic Survey (JADES), a collaboration between two instrument teams that will use about 800 hours of observing time. As part of the Guaranteed Time Observations program, the JADES collaboration will retain the data for an initial exclusive access period.

JADES is designed so we can take deep images to find the most distant galaxies, and then follow up by taking spectra of those galaxies, which will allow us to pinpoint their ages and measure all kinds of amazing properties, such as how fast they are making stars and how rich in metals they are, he said. We will be able to look at the first population of galaxies in the universe and say what they are and how they came to be.

Robertson is also the lead theorist for the COSMOS-Webb galaxy survey, the largest of the Cycle 1 General Observer Programs, with more than 200 hours of observing time, and is a co-investigator of PRIMER, a major public Treasury Program. Each of these complementary galaxy surveys will make important contributions to understanding the story of how galaxies formed in the early universe. COSMOS covers the widest area but not as deeply as the other surveys, PRIMER is the next biggest in area and goes slightly deeper, and JADES goes even deeper and adds spectroscopy to tease out the properties of the galaxies.

Theyre like the tiers of a wedding cake, and well be learning different things about the galaxy population with each one, Robertson said.

Illingworth is involved in first galaxies projects, too, including serving as the U.S. lead for PRIMER and another international Treasury Program (FRESCO), both of which, like the ERS programs, will provide unrestricted data access. Illingworths team pushed Hubble and the Spitzer Space Telescope to their limits to capture the most distant galaxies ever observed. Now JWST is poised to go much further and transform our understanding of the earliest galaxies. Illingworth said he expects JWST to yield new discoveries even in its first few days of observations.

Its so astonishingly powerful, it will answer a lot of questions about how the first galaxies are growing in the first 1 to 2 percent of the life of the universe, he said. First galaxies were at the heart of what JWST was conceived to do over 20 years ago. Tackling this incredibly challenging problem is going to be so exciting.

Neutron stars

Other UCSC faculty leading JWST observations include astrophysicist Ryan Foley, whose team will be using the space telescope for follow-up observations of gravitational wave sources, capturing infrared light from the kilonova explosion when two neutron stars collide. Its really an exciting program, he said. We need JWSTs unique capability to go deeper into the infrared and capture a real picture of whats going on in these events.

Like many projects of this size and complexity, JWST was plagued by delays and cost overruns. Illingworth has been in the thick of it in his various roles, responding to funding crises and advising Congress and NASA administrators to help keep the project moving forward. Under-budgeting was at the root of many issues, he said. Every project needs to carry large enough reserves so you have money available to fix problems immediately when they arise, because the costs go up so fast whenever there are delays, he said.

Now that the telescope is finally ready for launch, the anticipation is mounting for astronomers at UCSC and throughout the world.

In certain fields, JWST is going to blow everything else away, Skemer said. Some types of observations we will never do from the ground again.

JWST is an international collaboration between NASA, the European Space Agency, and the Canadian Space Agency. The Space Telescope Science Institute will operate the telescope after launch. It will take about a month to get the telescope and its sunshield deployed and settled into its orbit 1 million miles from Earth, and another 5 months to get JWST fully commissioned and operational before it can begin observations.
Photo credit: Getty Images



With Christmas right around the corner, advent calendars are flying off the shelves. But we recently came across an advent tradition we were less familiar with: kalenderlys. In Denmark, families light these numbered candles every day leading up to Christmas, just as you'd open up an advent calendar door or light a traditional advent wreath, to countdown to December 25th.

"In most families the candles are lit every day from December 1st as a soothing factor in a hectic period, quite often at the breakfast table," Visit Denmark's website explains. "Frequently it is the childrens' duty to blow out the candle before it burns down too far into the next date."

Needless to say, if you're a fan of the cozy hygge aesthetic, this is another Danish tradition you'll want to bring to your home. After all, there's nothing more comforting than starting or ending the day by lighting a candle.

These countdown candles might not be popular here in the US, but in Denmark, you can find them everywhere: from luxury boutiques to the equivalent of a 99 cent store. Which begs the question: why haven't Americans hopped on the trend?

Let us be the first to bring them into our own homes this year. Tradition has to start somewhere, and we're happy to carry the torch for this one.

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Amazon warehouse workers in New York City filed a petition on Monday with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) to hold a vote on unionization.

Why it matters: The move comes six months after an organizing effort was defeated at Amazon's distribution center in Alabama.

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Details: 30% of the workers at Amazon's four Staten Island facilities, which employ roughly 7,000 people, must submit authorization cards for the NLRB to approve the unionization vote.

The New York City unionization group, called the Amazon Labor Union, has collected over 2,000 cards, leader Chris Smalls told the Washington Post.

The workers are pushing for pay raises, more paid time off, longer breaks, the ability to cancel shifts in hazardous weather conditions, less mandatory overtime and the right to employee advocacy.

The big picture: Though the majority of workers voted not to unionize in the Alabama vote, the NLRB later said in a preliminary finding that Amazon may have illegally interfered in the mail-in election.

Amazon employees are also alleging that the company underpaid them while they were on leave.

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WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden is spinning a convoluted tale of an Amtrak conductor who congratulated him during his vice presidency for logging more miles riding the train home to Delaware than by flying on Air Force Two.

I apologize because some have heard this, Biden told a crowd Monday in New Jersey, starting up a story he has repeated in various forms at least five times, dating back to the 2020 campaign.

I swear to God. True story, he said Monday, for emphasis.

But it's a mangled one.

By his own accounting, Biden's Amtrak miles over the years only surpassed his Air Force Two miles after the conductor who supposedly informed him of that fact had died. Moreover, the conductor had retired about two decades before the conversation Biden claims to have had with him while boarding a train.

BIDEN: I commuted every single day, 263 miles a day, on Amtrak from the time I got elected United States senator. As a matter of fact, when I was vice president, I used to like to take the train home when my mom was very sick and dying, and Id come home every weekend to make sure Id take the train home. ...

"And Im getting on one Friday, and then one of the senior guys on Amtrak, Angelo Negri  I got to know all the conductors really well; they became my friends. ... And Ang walks up to me and goes, Joey, baby! Grabs my cheek. And I thought the Secret Service was going to blow his head off. ... I said, Whats up, Ang? He said, Joey, I read in the paper  I read in the paper you traveled 1,000  1.2 million miles on Air Force planes  because they keep meticulous tabs of it. I said, Yeah. ... He said, You know how many miles you traveled on Amtrak, Joey? And I said, No. He said, The boys and I figured it out ... He says, You travel 2 million  I think it was 180, but  2,200,000 miles.

I said, How did you get that answer? He said, Well, 267 miles a day. We figured you traveled 119 days a year for 36 years, and then you traveled as vice president. And then he goes, So, Joey, I dont want to hear this about the Air Force anymore."

Story continues

THE FACTS: The tale as Biden spins it is wrong. Negri could not have had that conversation because he was already deceased by the time Biden logged 1.2 million miles on Air Force Two.

Biden refers to a train ride he made to Delaware when he was vice president and his mother was sick and dying. He explains it happened shortly after he had flown 1.2 million miles, spurring Negris comment about his mileage on Amtrak in comparison. On previous occasions when Biden has told the story, hes also indicated that it all happened around his fourth or fifth year as vice president  or 2012-2013  although in a rendition of the story told to a crowd in Scranton, Pennsylvania, last week, Biden suggested it was in his seventh year, which would be 2015.

In any event, Bidens mother, Catherine Eugenia Jean Finnegan Biden, died in 2010, well before the middle of his vice presidency.

It's plausible that Biden logged 1.2 million train miles as vice president by early 2016, based on accounts around the time by Biden and David Lienemann, the vice president's official photographer. But Negri had long retired as an Amtrak conductor, in 1993, and died in May 2014.

Biden made Amtrak trips between Washington and his home in Delaware on most days as a senator when Congress was in session so he could help raise his sons. The Amtrak round trip is actually 220 miles or 354 kilometers, not over 260 miles (418 km) as he described it.

It is well possible that he had some warm conversations with Negri, and his stepdaughter told CNN the two were friends. Its also possible that Biden spoke with another Amtrak conductor in late 2015 or early 2016 after his apparent milestone on Air Force Two.

But Biden distorts the timeline in a way that makes the story false. He's been telling it, with variations, with more frequency as he pitches his infrastructure plan. Monday's remarks were at New Jersey Transits rail maintenance facility in Kearny.

Bidens tale has drawn repeated criticism from conservative groups. When asked to square the facts in May, White House principal deputy press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said she wasnt familiar with the details.

___

EDITOR'S NOTE  A look at the veracity of claims by political figures.

___

Find AP Fact Checks at http://apnews.com/APFactCheck

Follow @APFactCheck on Twitter: https://twitter.com/APFactCheck
(Bloomberg) -- Saudi Aramco said oil-output capacity across the world is dropping quickly and companies need to invest more in production.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Its a huge concern, Chief Executive Officer Amin Nasser said in an interview in Riyadh, Saudi Arabias capital. The spare capacity is shrinking.

His comments come with crude prices having soared 70% this year to around $85 a barrel. Many major consumers, including the U.S., Japan and India, have called on producers to pump more.

The supply deficit in oil markets could worsen in 2022 if the coronavirus pandemic eases and more people fly, he said.

Declining Rapidly

If theres aviation pick up next year, that spare capacity will be depleted, he said. Its now getting to a situation where theres limited supply -- whatever is left thats spare is declining rapidly.

Several oil and gas traders have criticized governments and climate activists for calling on companies to stop investing in fossil fuels, saying that will cause shortages of energy in the coming decade.

Aramco, the worlds biggest oil company, is investing billions of dollars to raise its daily capacity to 13 million barrels from 12 million. It expects to complete the project by 2027.

Many Wall Street banks and OPEC+ members doubt there will be supply shortages next year. JPMorgan Chase & Co. has said oil markets will shift to a supply surplus of 1 million barrels by March from a deficit of around 1.5 million barrels now.

Saudi Arabias energy minister told Bloomberg on Saturday there could be a huge uplift in crude inventories in 2022.

We still have Covid, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said, justifying OPEC+s refusal to ease deep supply cuts it began last year any faster. We still have jet fuel limited in terms of growth. If you do more now, youre accelerating the problem.

Story continues

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its partners are increasing daily output by 400,000 barrels each month. The 23-nation group, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, next meets on Nov. 4 to decide whether to change strategy.

(Updates from fourth paragraph with more comments, context.)

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2021 Bloomberg L.P.
Oct. 26A Rochester assistant city attorney has been honored for her work to help remove discriminatory and restrictive covenants from local property titles.

Tran Nguyen was selected as a Minnesota Lawyer Diversity & Inclusion 2021 honoree for her work with the Just Deeds Project.

 Impact of racially restrictive covenants seen in current policies and attitudes

 Mapping history: Project aims to bring light to racial covenants in Rochester

"This Minnesota Lawyer Diversity & Inclusion award is a testament to the city's commitment to creating a compassionate and inclusive community," City Attorney Michael Spindler-Krage said in a statement. "We are so thankful for Ms. Nguyen's leadership and hard work on this project, coordinating and collaborating with so many community partners and volunteers. This is truly a community effort, sifting through some painful truths about our past and reflecting on how this history shapes our community today."

The Rochester City Council approved a partnership with Just Deeds in March, and residents have been working to identify where property title covenants once restricted ownership based on people's race or religious beliefs.

While the covenants were ruled unenforceable in 1948 and prohibited in Minnesota in 1952, many still exist in writing and Just Deeds seeks to identify them and add language to the titles that denounce the past restrictions.

Rochester residents who want to know if their property has restrictive covenants can go to https://www.rochestermn.gov/government/departments/just-deeds to learn more and complete a form for inquiry.

The city project is seeking volunteer attorneys, as well as real estate and title professionals to review property titles and assist property owners with removing the covenants.

Volunteer opportunities are available on the website.
Australia will lift a ban on citizens travelling overseas without permission, the government announced Wednesday, with the country's border set to open to skilled workers and international students by year's end.

More than 18 months after Australia closed its international borders, fully vaccinated citizens will no longer have to seek an exemption to leave the country, a joint statement from the health and home affairs ministries said.

It comes as the country's adult double-dose vaccination rate edged closer to an 80 percent target.

Home Affairs minister Karen Andrews said that while Australian citizens were currently being prioritised, more travel restrictions -- including for some non-citizens -- would be eased as vaccination rates increased.

"Before the end of the year, we anticipate welcoming fully vaccinated skilled workers and international students," she said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who foreshadowed the changes earlier this month, said Australia was now "very close" to announcing a reciprocal travel bubble with Singapore, which announced late Tuesday that Australians no longer had to quarantine on arrival.

Qantas flights to the city-state are scheduled to resume on November 22.

"We're working to a timetable around about then which will see other visa-holders -- in addition to Australians returning or going to Singapore and returning who are double vaccinated -- being able to come to Australia," Morrison told Channel 7 television.

On March 20 last year Australia introduced some of the world's toughest border restrictions in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

For almost 600 days, countless international flights have been grounded, and overseas travel has slowed to a trickle.

Families have been split across continents, tens of thousands of nationals were stranded overseas and foreign residents were stuck in the country unable to see friends or relatives.

Quarantine arrangements for returning vaccinated residents will depend on where they arrive in Australia.

While Sydney has scrapped quarantine for returning travellers, other Australian states with lower vaccination rates still have mandatory and costly 14-day hotel quarantine requirements.

hr/st
Mark Ruffalo stars as Hulk in the MCU. Marvel Studios

Hulk's fate in "Avengers: Age of Ultron" was altered due to rumors about a standalone movie.

Rumors spread that a film adaptation of the "Planet Hulk" comic book storyline was in the works.

Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige said that adapting "Planet Hulk" was never a consideration.

Hulk's fate in "Avengers: Age of Ultron" was modified in response to speculation that Marvel was setting up a solo movie for the superhero.

"We went so far as to change the 'Age of Ultron' script because of [the internet rumors]," Marvel Studios president Kevin Feige said in a new behind-the-scenes book called "The Story of Marvel Studios: The Making of the Marvel Cinematic Universe" by Tara Bennett and Paul Terry.

Back in 2013, Latino Review reported that Marvel Studios had plans for a new standalone Hulk film called "Planet Hulk," starring Mark Ruffalo and based on a 2006 comic-book storyline by Greg Pak.

The storyline involved the green superhero ending up in space, on a planet known as Sakaar, and becoming a gladiator.

The publication reported that the second "Avengers" film, directed by Joss Whedon and released in theaters in May 2015, would lay the groundwork for the aforementioned movie.

Feige himself tried to dispel the rumor at the time, telling MTV that he thought "Planet Hulk" is "a cool story," but an adaptation could get bogged down by "dense" mythology.

Then in 2014, Ruffalo expressed skepticism, telling MTV News: "I don't think ['Planet Hulk'] is the way to go yet. I think you need more Banner. The whole thing is just him as Hulk, on a planet, fighting other gladiators."

Hulk was last seen in a Quinjet at the end of "Age of Ultron." Marvel Studios

Near the conclusion of "Ultron," Hulk entered space via a Quinjet. With the aircraft's stealth mode activated, his whereabouts were unknown and untraceable to the Avengers.

"One of our tech boys flagged this," Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) told Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow (Scarlett Johansson), showing her a tablet. "Splashed down in the Banda Sea. Could be the Quinjet. But with Stark's stealth tech, we still can't track the damn thing."

Story continues

"Probably jumped out and swam to Fiji," Fury added. "He'll send a postcard."

In "The Story of Marvel Studios," Feige said that the moment didn't originally play out that way. He shared similar comments during a 2017 interview with TheWrap.

"One of Joss' early drafts had Hulk, in a Quinjet, heading out of the atmosphere," Feige recalled in the book. "At the end, Nick Fury is talking to Widow. She asks, 'Any sign of him?' And he says, 'We lost his signal when it went past Saturn.'"

Feige continued: "So when Joss delivered those pages that had him going into space, I went, 'Joss, we can't do this. People are gonna think we're doing 'Planet Hulk.' Just say he got lost and you can't find him past the Fiji Islands or something.'"

The "Ultron" script and visual elements were adjusted to prevent fans from assuming the film was setting up a "Planet Hulk" movie. Marvel Studios

Aside from adjusting the script, Feige said that there were visual modifications as well.

"Even in visual effects, where Hulk looks up [in the Quinjet], there were times where it started to look like stars and we went, 'No, put blue sky in there,'" he said.

The producer also said that adapting "Planet Hulk" wasn't an idea that came up "because, as cool as we thought the comic was, Bruce Banner is not a part of 'Planet Hulk.'"

Even though "Planet Hulk" didn't lead to a standalone film, aspects of the storyline were incorporated in 2017's "Thor: Ragnarok," which featured Hulk and Thor fighting in a gladiator duel on Sakaar.

Read the original article on Insider
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP)  President Joe Biden framed the Virginia governors race as a repudiation of his predecessor, tying the Republican candidate to former President Donald Trump as he campaigned Tuesday night for Democrat Terry McAuliffe in what's become a tight and increasingly bitter campaign.

No Republican has won statewide office in Virginia since 2009, and Biden carried it by a comfortable 10 percentage points in 2020. Yet polls have shown McAuliffe tied with Republican former business executive Glenn Youngkin with the election a week away  and the president's own popularity is on the decline.

In the final days of the race, both candidates are focused on turning out their base supporters, with Republicans pressing culture war issues  prompting a debate over banning books in high school classrooms  and McAuliffe, who previously served as governor from 2014 to 2018, hammering Youngkin for his ties to Trump.

Biden drove that theme home during a rally in Arlington, just across the Potomac River from Washington, mentioning the former president by name more frequently than Youngkin and drawing a direct line from last year's presidential race to next Tuesday's election.

I ran against Donald Trump and Terry is running against an acolyte of Donald Trump," Biden said.

He charged that Youngkin not only embraces some of the essential lack of character, he endorses Donald Trump's bad ideas and bad record."

McAuliffe, meanwhile, told the same gathering that Youngkin is ending his campaign the way he started it: With divisive dog whistles."

We have a choice: A path that promotes conspiracies, hate, division, or a path focused on lifting up every single Virginian, McAuliffe said.

A loss by McAuliffe  or perhaps even a narrow victory  would be an ominous sign for Democrats already likely facing stiff political headwinds in next year's midterm elections, when their narrow control of the House and Senate will be on the line. The party that wins the White House historically losses congressional seats in the next election, and Virginia, this cycle's top off-year race, is seen as a key test of whether Democrats can head into 2022 with momentum.

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How much help Biden will offer McAuliffe is unclear, though. The president has seen the percentage of Americans approving of his job performance fall after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, and amid an economy that remains far from fully healed as the nation continues to struggle with the coronavirus pandemic.

Biden defended his record Tuesday night, rehashing some of his old arguments with Trump. He said that while Trump presided over a loss of American jobs, the Biden administration has overseen a surge in job creation, and also touted the strength of the stock market on his watch  a nod to one of Trump's favored metrics for success.

And Biden touted aspects of his infrastructure and social services spending proposals, tying his plans to the need to win next week's elections.

We're on the right track, but we've got more to do," Biden said.

Youngkin's campaign released an ad featuring a mother who years ago sought to have the book Beloved banned from classrooms in suburban Washington. The acclaimed 1987 novel by Nobel laureate Toni Morrison is about an escaped slave who kills her infant daughter rather than allowing the girl to be returned to the plantation.

The mother's advocacy led to state legislation McAuliffe vetoed in 2016 and 2017 that would have let parents opt out of having their children study classroom materials with sexually explicit content.

McAuliffes campaign and fellow Democrats blasted Youngkins ad and accused him of trying to silence Black authors.

McAuliffe's campaign highlighted the controversy during his rally Tuesday night by passing out copies of Beloved to reporters, and McAuliffe hammered Youngkin for it.

He wants to bring his personal culture wars into our classrooms," he said. Folks, we will not allow Glenn Youngkin to bring his hate, his chaos, into our Virginia schools.

Youngkin has made defending parental rights in school classrooms a centerpiece of his gubernatorial run, and his campaign responded by noting that the bills McAuliffe vetoed had passed with Democratic support. It said that by accusing Youngkin of playing racial politics, McAuliffe was effectively leveling the same charge at his own party.

That issue flared up before Biden addressed more than 1,000 people who cheered and shivered against stiff winds on soccer fields in a park in Arlington, long safely blue territory. Other, nearby parts of the fast-growing Washington suburbs have moved Virginia from a onetime swing state to more reliably Democratic  especially as their populations of Black, Hispanic and Asian residents have increased.

A small group of protesters, one hoisting a large Trump Won flag, gathered nearby and briefly chanted Let's Go Brandon, a euphemism for a vulgarity against Biden that has become popular on conservative social media sites.

Ebonie Gadson, 23, an independent voter who works for a tech company and lives across the street, headed to rally to learn more about a governor's race she said she only recently began closely following.

Having the president's support, I think, will increase voter turnout and just get everyone excited, said Gadson, who added that she wanted to learn more about the race than just what I'd seen on TV.

Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said Youngkin is ensuring every Virginian has a say in their childs education.

With an unprecedented amount of Republican enthusiasm, Virginians are ready to reject Terry McAuliffe and Joe Biden, McDaniel said in a statement.

Biden made his second trip to Arlington since McAuliffe launched his gubernatorial bid. He's the latest in a parade of Democratic stars to flood the state, hoping to fire up the party's base.

The president follows former President Barack Obama, Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison, former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and first lady Jill Biden.

Vice President Kamala Harris will campaign for McAuliffe on Friday, her second stop in as many weeks. In Dumfries, about 30 miles south of Washington last week, Harris called the race tight and warned against Democratic complacency.

Youngkin campaigned in Clarksville and Danville, not far from the Virginia-North Carolina border, on Tuesday, part of a 50-stop bus tour. In contrast to McAuliffe, Youngkin, a former top executive at the private equity firm the Carlyle Group, has largely shied away from outside help from national party members, though he has been endorsed by Trump.

This is no longer a campaign, Youngkin said as he visited suburban Richmond recently. "This is a movement.

___

Associated Press writer Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia, contributed to this report.
The White House is privately telling lawmakers the climate portion of President Biden's roughly $2 trillion social spending plan is "mostly settled" and will likely cost more than $500 billion, two sources familiar with the talks tell Axios.

Why it matters: A price tag of $500 billion to $555 billion is a huge number and, if it holds, would likely be the single biggest component of the sweeping package. It also isn't far off from the roughly $600 billion proposed when the bill was expected to cost $3.5 trillion.

Get market news worthy of your time with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free.

The significant investment underscores the level of commitment Democrats are making to climate change mitigation.

What were hearing: Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), a key progressive involved in the Senate's climate talks, also told Axios the bill will cost at least $500 billion.

"Everything else is getting a massive haircut, but this isn't," Schatz said.

"This will be, just as a matter of fact, the biggest climate bill in human history. At least half a trillion dollars. That's a pretty good story to tell at the Conference of Parties (COP26)," he added.

The 2021 United Nations climate conference convenes next week in Glasgow, Scotland, and President Biden is attending.

As Axios' Andrew Freedman notes, having a big climate portion is essential for getting the broader social safety net expansion passed in the House. Given climate is a key priority among progressives, a $500-billion-plus price tag should help.

Driving the news: The remainder of the climate section still under negotiation focuses on how to spread around the $150 billion initially slated for the Clean Electricity Performance Program (CEPP).

That program was nixed due to opposition from Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.). He chairs the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, which will determine how to spend the leftover funds.

Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, told Axios he expects negotiators will devote that money to energy transmission and storage.

The White House hosted roughly a dozen climate advocacy group leaders on Monday to discuss this section of the bill, a source familiar with the meeting told Axios.

Details: The following provisions are expected to be included in the bill, according to a source familiar with the negotiations:

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New grants and loans to support industrial sector decarbonization, in addition to expanding relevant tax credits to support this goal.

Manufacturing credits to help grow domestic supply chains for solar, offshore, and onshore wind. Some of those credits will be targeted to the auto and energy communities.

Expanding access to rooftop solar and home electrification.

Expanding grants and loans to rural co-ops to boost clean energy and energy efficiency.

Expanding grants and loans in the agriculture sectors to help them shift to clean energy providers with fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

The big picture: The COP26 is a huge motivation for Biden and Democratic leaders pushing for a deal this week on the overall framework for his social spending bill.

If Biden walks into Glasgow without an agreed-to framework, it would undercut his credibility in global climate talks with world leaders.

He'd get an added political boost if the House also joined the Senate in passing the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill before he heads overseas.

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Good Morning America

After suffering unspeakable abuses and deprivation at the hands of their parents, the Turpin siblings -- it seemed -- were on the path to a new life: a future with the resources needed to start fresh, to make up for the years they were locked away from the world. Nearly four years ago, after authorities rescued the 13 Turpin siblings from their family home in Perris, California, where they were subjected to brutal violence and deprived of food, sleep, hygiene, education, and health care, advocates and county leaders assured the siblings -- and a concerned public -- that help was on the way. "We are confident, given what they've been through and how resilient they are, that they're going to be really successful," said Jack Osborn, a court-appointed attorney for the seven adult children, after their parents' sentencing in 2019.
BRASILIA, Brazil (AP)  A Brazilian Senate committee recommended on Tuesday that President Jair Bolsonaro face a series of criminal indictments for actions and omissions related to the worlds second highest COVID-19 death toll.

The 7-to-4 vote was the culmination of a six-month committee investigation of the governments handling of the pandemic. It formally approved a report calling for prosecutors to try Bolsonaro on charges ranging from charlatanism and inciting crime to misuse of public funds and crimes against humanity, and in doing so hold him responsible for many of Brazils more than 600,000 COVID-19 deaths.

The president has denied wrongdoing, and the decision on whether to file most of the charges will be up to Prosecutor-General Augusto Aras, a Bolsonaro appointee who is widely viewed as protecting him. The allegation of crimes against humanity would need to be pursued by the International Criminal Court.

Sen. Omar Aziz, the chairman of the inquiry, said he would deliver the recommendation to the prosecutor-general Wednesday morning. Aras' office said the report would be carefully reviewed as soon as it is received.

Regardless of whether charges are filed, the report is expected to fuel criticism of the divisive president, whose approval ratings have slumped ahead of his 2022 reelection campaign  in large part because of Brazils outsize COVID-19 death toll. The investigation itself has for months provided a drumbeat of damaging allegations.

Since the start of the pandemic, Bolsonaro has sabotaged local leaders' restrictions on activity aimed at stopping the virus' spread, saying the economy needed to keep humming so the poor did not suffer worse hardship. He also has insistently touted an anti-malaria drug long after broad testing showed it isn't effective against COVID-19, assembled crowds without wearing masks and sowed doubt about vaccines.

Bolsonaro has defended himself by saying he was among the few world leaders courageous enough to defy political correctness and global health recommendations, and that he hasn't erred in the slightest.

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The report's author, Sen. Renan Calheiros, first presented the nearly 1,200-page document last week. It says that by insisting on treatment with the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine as practically the only government policy to fight the pandemic, Jair Bolsonaro strongly collaborated for COVID-19's spread in Brazilian territory" and as a result is "the main person responsible for the errors committed by the federal government during the pandemic.

Committee members in the so-called G7 group of senators who arent from Bolsonaros base agreed on most of the points in Calheiros' report. They met Monday to hammer out final adjustments to the text.

Changes include recommending charges for 13 additional people, many of them current or former Health Ministry employees, as well as the governor of hard-hit Amazonas state. The final report recommends charges against two companies and 78 people in all, including Bolsonaro, administration officials, dozens of allies and the presidents three sons, who are politicians.

It also adds an additional violation for allegedly spreading false news following Bolsonaro's live broadcast on social media last week claiming incorrectly that people in the U.K. who received two vaccine doses are developing AIDS faster than expected.

The report also contains recommendations for two counts of "crime of responsibility, which are grounds for impeachment. But Lower House Speaker Arthur Lira, a staunch Bolsonaro ally, would have to bring a vote on whether to open impeachment proceedings  something seen as highly unlikely considering Lira is currently sitting on more than 120 other impeachment requests, according to information from the legislative body.

Sen. Flavio Bolsonaro, one of the president's sons, called the report legally weak and politically motivated.

The intent of some senators on the investigative committee is to cause the maximum amount of wear and tear on the president, he told journalists.

Minutes after the inquiry was finished, former U.S. President Donald Trump said in a statement that he endorses the Brazilian leader.

President Jair Bolsonaro and I have become great friends over the past few years. He fights hard for, and loves, the people of Brazil  just like I do for the people of the United States, Trump said. Brazil is lucky to have a man such as Jair Bolsonaro working for them. He is a great President and will never let the people of his great country down!

An earlier draft had recommended the president also be indicted for homicide and genocide, but that was scrapped even before its presentation last week. Some committee members opposed such charges, while others expressed concern that bombastic claims could undermine the reports credibility.

The Senate committees final hearing on the inquiry Tuesday ended with a moment of silence for victims of the virus in Brazil.
Brian Laundrie as seen in police bodycam footage. The Moab Police Department via AP

Police said Brian Laundrie's notebook may be "salvageable."

It was found in an area that was previously underwater, and it's not clear if anything is inside.

A police spokesman told Fox News: "It appears it may be salvageable. That really is a question for FBI though."

Police said a notebook belonging to Brian Laundrie may still be "salvageable" after it was found in an area that was previously underwater.

North Port Police Department spokesperson Josh Taylor was asked by Fox News what condition the notebook was in, and if anything in it was legible.

Taylor replied: "It appears it may be salvageable. That really is a question for FBI though."

The FBI told Fox News it had "no new information" to share "at this time."

The notebook, a backpack, and a dry bag belonging to Laundrie were found on October 20, near where Laundrie's partial remains were found.

It is not clear what, if anything, was written or drawn in the notebook.

Steven Bertolino, the Laundrie family attorney, said he doesn't know what was in the notebook, Fox News reported.

Laundrie's remains were found at the Carlton Reserve in Florida, where he was reported missing last month.

His parents told authorities that he never came home after he went for a hike on September 13. He had returned alone from a trip with his fiancee, Gabby Petito, on September 1.

Petito was reported missing by her family on September 11. Her remains were found on September 19, and an autopsy report found that she died of strangulation.

Laundrie was the sole person of interest in her death.

Read the original article on Insider
The US Capitol on January 6. REUTERS/Leah Millis

A Capitol-riot defendant has apparently had a change of heart and now says he loathes Trump.

Thomas Sibick in a letter to a judge said Trump "should be ostracized from any political future."

Sibick added that the riot was a disgrace "that left a scar Trump is ultimately responsible for."

A Capitol-riot suspect from Buffalo, New York, who's been indicted on a number of charges related to the January 6 attack wrote a letter to a judge criticizing former President Donald Trump.

Thomas Sibick is accused of assaulting Metropolitan Police Officer Michael Fanone. In his letter to Judge Amy Berman Jackson, Sibick wrote that Trump "is not a leader and should be ostracized from any political future, what he honestly needs to do is go away!"

The deadly January 6 insurrection was a "disgrace to our nation that left a scar Trump is ultimately responsible for," Sibick wrote.

"The shame, dishonor, and regret endured are without question the worst emotions ever experienced," he added. "I disagree with what occurred that fateful day, especially the trauma suffered by Officer Michael Fanone, it is without question unconscionable."

Trump did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider.

Jackson on Tuesday decided to release Sibick from pretrial jail in Washington, DC, but said he was to be confined to his parents' home at all times. Sibick is also barred from using social media or watching any political programs on television, Ryan J. Reilly, a HuffPost senior justice reporter, reported.

The judge expressed concern about January 6 defendants being jailed together, worrying about the "toxic environment" it creates.

Experts have also said that housing the defendants together could further radicalize them.

"I do think the fact that the J6 defendants who are currently being held pre-trial... having them all together where they can seemingly communicate by newsletter, is likely to foster continued feelings of anti-government mentality among those individuals who are being prosecuted," Jon Lewis, a research fellow at the George Washington University's Program on Extremism, said in comments to Vice News.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Joan Faus

DELTEBRE, Spain (Reuters) - When a storm hits their village in northeastern Spain, Marcela and Maria Cinta Otamendi rush to the coast, day or night, to check on their restaurant and rice fields, fearing the sea may have swallowed them.

That fear has deepened in recent years as the Mediterranean has encroached upon the land their father bought in 1951 in the Ebro River Delta, a 320 square km (124 square mile) UNESCO Biosphere Reserve rich in wetland wildlife such as flamingos.

"We don't know if we will make it through this winter," said Marcela, 56, who wants the government to preserve the land and opposes a plan to buy it out instead, vowing to fight it in court.

"It's our business but also our heritage," added her sister Maria Cinta, 58, who manages the Vascos restaurant.

(Open https://reut.rs/3vLDSxU in an external browser to see a picture package on the Ebro Delta.)

With rising seas threatening to engulf low-lying shores, the government aims to buy 832 hectares of private land in the Ebro Delta in what would be Europe's largest climate-related land buyouts to date and would include Otamendi's roughly 40 hectares.

According to a preliminary protection plan expected to be finalised before December, such purchases would expand a publicly-owned buffer - by up to 560 metres inland - along the coast where nature would take its course.

The Environment Ministry told Reuters it had received 252 public comments about its plan and would take as many as possible into account. It could be approved by decree, avoiding parliamentary debate.

Madrid has not disclosed its price tag.

The plan has prompted strong opposition from officials and farmers in the Ebro Delta - where 62,000 people live and lucrative rice fields account for 65% of the area - illustrating how governments are starting to face tough choices as they try to adapt to increasing environmental risks.

The Taula de Consens association representing local municipalities and businesses says the proposal amounts to capitulation. It is gathering signatures for the European Ombudsman to investigate what it calls authorities' inaction.

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Some areas of the delta form part of the EU's environmentally-protected-network Natura 2000. European Commission officials said they were not aware of Spain's plan.

The Taula wants six million cubic meters of sand brought in to guarantee the beaches' survival for 50 years at a cost of about 30 million euros ($35 million), said its technical director, Rafa Sanchez, who praised the Netherlands' use of sand for staving off the rising seas.

Residents have not been contacted by the government about the planned buyouts, which would also affect 97 beach-side luxury homes, according to the local neighbourhood council.

RISING SEA

Spain's government predicts the sea will rise around 15 centimetres in the area by 2045 and up to 78 cm by 2081-2100, forecasting at least one beach could be gone by 2060.

The Ebro Delta is sinking and shrinking in some sections due to coastal erosion triggered by a shortage of sediments, accelerated by sea level rise and more frequent and intense storms caused by climate change, scientists say.

The delta's tip shrank by 648 meters between 1986 and 2016, while the beach by the Vascos lost 141 meters, a 2018 study by Catalonia's Polytechnic University said.

Researcher Carles Ibanez said that without adequate measures the delta will progressively flood, affecting 70% of its surface by 2100 if the sea rises up to one meter from 1995-2014, as predicted by the UN's Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change under its very high emissions scenario.

He believes that could be avoided if water pumping stations are expanded, dykes are built and upriver damming modified to allow more silt to reach the Ebro's mouth.

Others, however, say the battle may be futile.

"Sea level rise is accelerating and there is not much we can do to counteract it. A responsible strategy is to move our activities further inland," said Javier Lloret, a research scientist at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Massachusetts.

ADAPTING OR MOVING AWAY?

The fear of extreme weather wiping out the delta crystallized in January 2020 when storm Gloria flooded around 3,000 hectares of rice fields.

It temporarily submerged a thin strip connecting the mainland to the delta's southern peninsula, which has a major salt plain dating back to the 1700s.

It was a wake-up call for its operator Infosa, which is now seeking to build a ship-loading dock.

"Climate change is our biggest challenge and threat," said Infosa's chief executive Manel Salvado.

The storm also flooded Joan Ferrer's rice fields 3 km inland, costing him nearly 15,000 euros.

The 32-year-old takes pride in being a fourth-generation rice farmer, and although he has discussed with his wife the possibility of moving inland, he is participating in a local project to grow high salinity-resistant rice.

And while Marcela Otamendi increasingly feels like a stranger on her land, which shrank by nearly a third since 1993, she prefers not to think about leaving: "First, we have to fight to the limit."

(Reporting by Joan Faus, additional reporting by Horaci Garcia, Nacho Doce and Kate Abnett; Editing by Andrei Khalip, Gareth Jones, William Maclean)
Photo Illustration by Kristen Hazzard/The Daily Beast/Getty

Think Oceans 11only the robbers are cash-starved, nuke-thirsty North Koreans and their weapons are keyboards, not explosives and guns.

In the latest efforts to fund Kim Jong-Uns nuclear ambitions, hackers suspected of working for the North Korean government appear to have slithered their way into the computer networks of an Indonesian bank in an apparent attempt to pull off a megaheist to fund regime goals, The Daily Beast has learned.

It was around February of 2020 when the hackers, suspected of working for North Koreas military intelligence agencythe Reconnaissance General Bureau (RGB)are believed to have targeted the networks of Bank Rakyat Indonesia, cybersecurity researchers that have studied the malware culprit told The Daily Beast.

Inside a Ransomware Negotiation: This Is How Asshole Russian Hackers Shake Down Companies

The hackers appear to have gone after the banks networks with custom-made North Korean malware, according to a technical report on the apparent breach obtained by The Daily Beast. It remains unclear whether the North Korean hackers were successful in stealing any moneythe report doesnt confirm with 100 percent certainty that the hackers were successful in hitting the bank and making off with the cashbut the report indicates the hackers were likely successful in running the final parts of their hacking campaign against the bank, said Adrian Nish, the head of threat intelligence at BAE Systems.

Nish added that the particular malware believed to have hit Bank Rakyat Indonesia was a late-stage tool, typically used after hackers have already gained access to the network and done reconnaissance on its systems.

That malware, known as BEEFEATER, also links the campaign to the same malware that the North Korean hackers used in another heist, in which they successfully stole millions of dollars from Bangladesh Bank, Nish told The Daily Beast.

In 2016, North Korean hackers broke into Bangladesh Bank, stealing $81 million by sending fraudulent payment orders through the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT), a messaging system that makes bank transfers.

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A person familiar with the work of the United Nations Panel of Experts on North Koreawhich is tasked with investigating North Korean efforts to evade sanctions, including cyber-operationstold The Daily Beast that Kims regime would be smart to try building on the success of that attack.

If you can hack a Bangladesh Bank and make millions thats an awful lot of barges filled with coal and the cash actually is much more readily exploitable, this person said, referencing one of North Koreas other favorite ways to fund the government: exporting coal. This sort of hacking, the person added, is much lower-risk than other forms of sanction evasion and its much higher-reward, so why wouldnt you do it?

Vitaly Kamluk, the head of the Asia-Pacific Research and Analysis Team at Kaspersky, told The Daily Beast the North Korean hackers that work for the Reconnaissance General Bureau, also known as Lazarus Group or APT38, are believed to produce multiple versions of their malware so that if one version is burnedas it was in Bangladeshthey can rely on variants to run the same hacks again but without being detected.

The malware in the Indonesian campaign appears to be similarlike the latest updateto the malware used in the Bangladesh robbery.

Its quite common for North Korean hackers to go after banks. North Korean cyber-operations teams have searched high and low for money, going after financial institutions around the world, including in Brazil, Ecuador, Japan, Peru, Singapore, South Korea, and several other countries, according to U.S. intelligence community alerts.

Inside the Secret Codes Hackers Use to Outwit Ransomware Cops

But the apparent bank heist attempt in Indonesia stands out from the way North Korea has been hacking over the past year or so. North Korean government hackers have increasingly favored popping cryptocurrency entities over banks, likely because the cryptocurrency hacks are prone to yield more money, North Korea analysts say.

But ever since the hacking gang hit the Bangladesh Bank by exploiting SWIFT protocol, the banking sector has been beefing up protections against SWIFT heistsactions that might be preventing robberies from going off without a hitch, says Priscilla Moriuchi, the former head of the National Security Agencys East Asia and Pacific cyberthreats office.

SWIFT hardened their systems and did a lot of work with member organizations and DPRK expertise really was in the SWIFT system itself, Moriuchi said. Their techniques and the element of surprise was useful for a few years, but that has essentially evaporated now.

The North Korean hackers began turning more attention to cryptocurrencies right after the Bangladesh incident, at times targeting both mainstream financial entities and cryptocurrency organizations side-by-side, according to Kaspersky.

Since then, however, with their eyes on getting more bang for their buck, they have switched almost 100 percent of their operations to cryptocurrency-related hacks, which would make the apparent attempt in Indonesia stand out, Vikram Thakur, a technical director at Symantec, tells The Daily Beast.

The North Koreans are [realizing] its so much more lucrative to go after the cryptocurrency exchanges, Thakur said. They get so much more out of it. Its pure business.

Other hacking teams are catching on as well; globally cryptocurrency hacking is on the rise and so far this past year criminals have been stealing more assets than the year prior, Kim Grauer, director of research at Chainalysis, a crypto-forensics firm, told The Daily Beast in an interview.

Whatever their funding, theres some evidencenamely shows of North Korean military might in recent daysthat cyber-enabled heists in recent months might be paying off. As Moriuchi said, Theres clearly revenue coming into DPRK from cyber-operations.

Someone Came to Rescue These Ransomware Victimsbut Who?

From 2019 to November 2020, the time that encompasses the Indonesia incident, Kims regime hacked into financial institutions and cryptocurrency exchanges both to bolster the regimes weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missile programs, according to a report published this year from the UNs North Korea Panel of Experts. They stole approximately $316.4 million worth of virtual assets, the report states.

While its unclear whether Bank Rakyat Indonesia yielded any money for North Korea, the malware indicates the regimes hacking team was far along in their campaign, according to Nish.

The attackers dont want to give up their most precious tools at the first stage, Nish said, noting that this particular malware is a rare find, in part because the North Koreans only choose to put them into the networks theyre very interested in.

The trail the hackers left behind is minusculethe North Koreans typically clean up their tracks to avoid setting off alarm bellsmaking it difficult to trace exactly what they did, security researchers that have examined this case tell The Daily Beast.

Tracking this groupits like shadows in the dark, Nish said, noting those kinds of whispers of evidence of North Korean hacking are typical of Lazarus Group. They just delete the evidence.

It wouldnt be the first time North Korea has turned its attention to Indonesia. Just last year, the U.S. intelligence community called out a group of North Korean government hackers for their operations targeting banks, including likely victims in Indonesia.

Bank Rakyat Indonesia acknowledged The Daily Beasts request for comment, but did not offer a response. Indonesian police, the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI, the Department of Justice, the IRS, and U.S. Cyber Command did not return requests for comment. The Treasury Department declined to comment. The Department of Homeland Securitys cybersecurity agency, CISA, deferred comment to the FBI.

While its difficult for these agencies to nail down the bank hacks and their culpritsone hacker behind the Bangladesh Bank heist was charged years after the factanalysts who reviewed technical details of the campaign seem rather satisfied by the evidence.

You can be confident it was them, said Nish, the head of threat intelligence at BAE Systems.

The director of cyber-espionage at FireEyes Mandiant, Ben Read, also told The Daily Beast that the tools in question suggest the hackers involved are almost certainly part of the military intelligence hacking gang APT38.

Congress Questions FBIs Tight-Lipped Ransomware Tactics

Its definitely North Korea. The malware they used weve seen primarily used by APT38, Read said, though he added that, without doing the [incident response] ourselves, we cant say with 100% confidence.

The UN reports published this year on the hundreds of millions of dollars worth of North Koreas revenue-generating hacks dont mention any victims in Indonesia.

But the report doesnt include all of the hacking that took place in those months, a person familiar with the investigations of the United Nations Panel of Experts on North Korea told The Daily Beast.

Our current report has a couple of paragraphs on cyber and theres nothing very specific in itbut that doesnt mean that the processes have stopped, the person said, declining to comment specifically on the attempted heists in Indonesia.

Theyre still very interested in hacking for financial gain, this person added.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Growing up half-Filipina, I never thought my mother's food would become my life's work, but after spending years honing my skills as a chef preparing other people's food, I knew that the only way to reach my potential would be to tap into my heritage.

Leah Cohen (left) with her mom. (Courtesy Leah Cohen)

I was four years old when we took our first trip to the Philippines, ate my first bite of lumpia Shanghai and halo-halo. Year after year we would go back, and I continued to explore and learn how to prepare authentic Filipino food. These trips became my joy, a way to learn, explore and escape from my day-to-day in New York City.

Chicken Adobo by Leah Cohen

While lumpia Shanghai may have been the first Filipino food that my mother served me, chicken adobo was the first Filipino dish that she taught me how to cook. Chicken adobo is a simple, one-pot dish with five staples that all Filipinos have on hand  soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper, garlic and bay leaves. I add in a few more ingredients to really amplify the flavor. While working in other kitchens over the years, this has always been my go-to staff meal. It is easy to make, and while it braises away in the oven, I can get my prep done. Most importantly, the staff always loves it. Now I make it for my son, Carter G. It is one of his most loved dishes.

Turon (Crisp Banana Fritters) by Leah Cohen

Turon and halo-halo are the most popular desserts in the Philippines. We know halo-halo was one of my first bites in the Philippines  and it's a wildly popular dish on my Pig & Khao menu here in NYC  but it's not the easiest dish to make. Turon, on the other hand, is much easier to make. It is like the dessert version of lumpia  a sweet spring roll filled with banana, jackfruit and brown sugar.

If you like those flavorful Filipino recipes, you should also try these:

Filipino Chicken Skewers by Leah Cohen

Natalie Coughlin's Grandma's Lumpia by Natalie Coughlin
Rich Lesser, head of global firm Boston Consulting Group, thinks CEOs of large companies exist in a "bubble". He explains why he had to burst his own in order to grasp the importance of climate change, for our business advice series, CEO Secrets.

Boston Consulting Group (BCG) is a management consultancy firm employing more than 22,000 people in offices dotted around the world, with annual revenues of more than $8bn.

Rich Lesser joined it straight out of graduate business school in 1988, after training as a chemical engineer, and spent a quarter of a century rising up the ranks. He became CEO in 2013, a role he stepped down from at the end of this September, to become global chairman.

Mr Lesser explains why "CEO bubbles" form.

Mr Lesser (r) in 2010, three years before he became CEO at BCG

"When you're at the top of the hierarchy, you have a lot of influence over people's careers. There is a natural tendency for people to start to say things that they think you want to hear, that align with your world view, or make you happy."

The bubble forms slowly, Mr Lesser explains, because at first your peers still see you as something of an equal, they know you and your background. But over time, he says, a "gap starts to emerge", between the CEO and everyone else.

As a result CEOs need to proactively create environments where meaningful debate is fostered.

"I try to celebrate someone when I am wrong and they are right," says Mr Lesser, "that's how you break the bubble".

An example of this is climate change, he says, which he admits he was slow to grasp the importance of when it came to changing his firm's own culture and practices.

"We were already acting to address climate change but not as boldly as we needed to, and I had partners in BCG who pushed back very strongly on me, educating our broader partnership."

One senior partner in Germany even took matters into his own hands, sending an internal, group email with a self-made video warning of the dangers of inactivity on climate change.

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Mr Lesser is part of the World Economic Forum's Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders

It was potentially awkward for Lesser to take a clear stance on this issue, since BCG has big clients in the oil industry, not to mention the political implications in the United States, especially during the Trump administration.

"But those partners [who challenged me] turned out to be right," says Lesser, "it changed our trajectory and helped me break through my bubble."

A chance factor that helped to change BCG's trajectory was in fact the Covid-19 pandemic, which forced the firm to re-think its traditional working models, in a way that helps meet climate targets.

Management consultants and the multinational corporations they serve are known to be some of the worst offenders when it comes to carbon emissions, due to their business travel.

Before the pandemic, consultants would typically crisscross the globe on red-eye flights to hold short face-to-face meetings with clients.

"It used to be one of the hardest lives, because they'd be sometimes in two or three continents a week," says Mr Lesser, "but we Zoom from one place to the next now."

As well as being greener, this means clients can access a variety of expertise more easily, he argues.

Management consultants now more often offer their expertise via video call

Last September, BCG committed to reducing greenhouse-gas emissions by cutting full-time employees' travel by 30% by 2025. It has also pledged to cut its net carbon emissions to zero by 2030.

Since breaking his bubble, Lesser has joined the World Economic Forum's Alliance of CEO Climate Leaders. He will be attending the COP26 talks in Glasgow in early November.

So what tangible results would he like to see, from what's seen as a crunch conference?

"We never get as far as we would ideally want, it's just too hard politically," says Mr Lesser, "but it's not a zero or a one hundred game."

An acceleration of the national commitments to reduce the carbon output of the global economy, with extra help for developing countries to adapt, is necessary, he reckons.

But he would also like politicians to give clear directions to large businesses as they seek to reduce their carbon emissions.

"I'd like to see a price on carbon, it's an externality that should be priced for, that will make it easier for companies to make investments and commit and go faster."

And he would like to see protection for companies that commit to change.

Mr Lesser will be attending the COP26 conference in Glasgow

"Companies that go first are nervous, rightfully nervous," says Mr Lesser.

"They will make these big investments and they are going to be left holding the bag because customers are not going to be ready to pay more for products.

"So we need to be able to protect these first movers through some sort of border adjustment mechanisms, or other ways to prevent the punishing of the companies that are bold and invest."

"It's an incredibly important conference, but I don't think any of us know whether in the end we will look back on it as a great success or something that came up short of what we need."

As he steps down as BCG's CEO after more than three decades with the company, succeeded by Christoph Schweizer, Mr Lesser notices a change in the mindset amongst the newest recruits - something apparent in other companies too.

The new generation wants a clear sense of purpose from businesses, to give meaning to their working lives, says Mr Lesser.

"They want clear intent of what you are trying to achieve in the world, with real life examples, and you have to animate them. That's very different to even a decade ago, when most companies had a shareholder value mindset that, unfortunately, too often translated into short-term performances."

To harness that energy, other CEOs may be forced to burst their bubbles.

You can follow business reporter Dougal Shaw on Twitter: @dougalshawbbc
The Telegraph

Heads turn as Robert Plant strides into a quiet pub in Primrose Hill, dressed in black, a cascade of faded blond curls framing a jowly, lined face and scrub of grey beard. At 73, the golden god of 1970s heavy rock has taken on the bearing of a magnificent old lion. I was 19 on the first Led Zeppelin rehearsals, and I was 32 when [drummer] John [Bonham] passed away, that awful time, he notes, as we sit over coffees in a quiet corner. People used to say to me, Well, you must have done enough
BEIJING (Reuters) - China's President Xi Jinping called for efforts to "break new ground" in military equipment and weapons development for the People's Liberation Army, China's armed forces, according to a report from the official Xinhua media on Tuesday.

Xi, who is also chair of China's Central Military Commission (CMC), made the comments at a conference in Beijing, according to the report.

China's strategic capabilities had been enhanced by "leapfrog development" in military equipment and weapons, said Xi.

Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of the CMC, also said that China should pursue self-reliance in technology and make an "all-out" push to accelerate modernisation and build a "world-class" army, according to the report.

(Reporting by Gabriel Crossley; Editing by Raissa Kasolowsky)
ROME (Reuters) - Chinese President Xi Jinping will not attend a Rome summit of the Group of 20 leading economies in person, a source close to the matter said on Tuesday.

China will be represented at the summit on Saturday and Sunday by its foreign minister while Xi, whose presence had been in doubt for some time, will join the summit remotely, the source said.

The Kremlin said last week that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not be in Rome for the summit, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador have also said they will not come.

The source said the absences would not compromise the chances of making good progress at the summit, which will focus mainly on climate change and the COVID-19 pandemic.

The gathering hopes to achieve recognition from G20 leaders of the importance of limiting global warming to 1.5 decrees Celsius, the source said, and a commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by "around the middle of the century."

The wording on these issues will be closely watched for whether it is stronger than at a meeting of G20 energy and environment ministers in Naples in July.

At that meeting, ministers failed to reach unanimous agreement on setting dates for ending fossil fuel subsidies and phasing out coal power, and the Italian presidency asked leaders to try to bridge the differences at the Rome summit.

India also distanced itself from the part of the communique underlining the need to achieve net-zero emissions around mid-century, and suggested that emissions should be considered on a per capita basis".

The G20, whose countries account for 80% of global carbon emissions, is considered an important stepping stone before the United Nations COP26 climate summit next week in Scotland.

The G20 also aims to underline that rich countries should stump up $100 billion dollars per year to help poorer nations adapt to climate change.

This goal was supposed to be achieved by 2020, according to an agreement reached in 2009, but has not been met.

(Reporting by Gavin Jones and Angelo Amante, Editing by Timothy Heritage)
The Boston Globe, the citys oldest and largest daily newspaper, announced that it is endorsing City Councilor Michelle Wu in the Boston mayoral race.



Endorsement: The Boston Globe Editorial Board published the endorsement announcement online on Oct. 22.



In this election, that choice is very clear: The Globe endorses at-large City Councilor Michelle Wu of Roslindale, the first-place finisher in the preliminary election who has both an expansive vision for the citys next chapters and a proven record of ethical leadership, the Editorial Board wrote.

The Editorial Board stated that the Globe decided to endorse the 36-year-old due to her proposals to create a greener, more equitable city, and cited her desire for police department reform, mass transit development and environment and traffic congestion fixes.

The Boston Globe previously endorsed Andrea Campbell back in September, but Campbell did not pass the preliminary election.







Early voting starts soon! Check out the early vote locations & make your plan to vote early between Saturday, Oct. 23 & Friday, Oct. 29 https://t.co/Au2DliMsYf pic.twitter.com/Je9HEUG0IE

 Michelle Wu  (@wutrain) October 11, 2021



Election: Wu currently holds the at-large City Councilor position and was the former Boston City Council president.



Wu is running against Annissa Essaibi George, 47, a fellow at-large City Councilor, in the nonpartisan election.

Current polls from MassINC/WBUR show that Wu is leading by 32 points ahead of George.

Early voting for the municipal election began on Saturday, Oct. 23, and will end on Friday, Oct. 29.

Election day for the race for mayor, at-large and all nine districts on city council is Nov. 2.



Featured Image via Michelle Wu

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Model, television personality and author Chrissy Teigen is joining TODAY to share a few of her favorite recipes from her new cookbook, "Cravings: All Together: Recipes to Love: A Cookbook." She shows us how to make couscous salad with an herbaceous apricot dressing and crispy fried orange chicken sandwiches.

TODAY has affiliate relationships, so we may get a small share of the revenue from your purchases. Items are sold by the retailer, not by TODAY.

Chrissy Teigen's Orange Chicken Sandwiches by Chrissy Teigen

The stickiness, the crispiness, the sweet, the tart, the slaw. EVERYthing about this sandwich is perfect. To be honest, I'm guessing you guys don't make a lot of sandwiches from recipes. I rarely get sent pictures of them. My guess is that it's just so easy to just make your favorite sandwich or to hit up a drive-thru to achieve your sammy desires. And it is!! But you also need to trust the fact that when I, an AVID sandwich eater, love a sandwich, it means: It. Is. Legit. The funniest part of this sandwich is that it led to a heated conversation about orange chicken, a dish I LOVE, which I learned John (and his brother!) DO NOT LIKE. I wasn't aware people didn't like orange chicken. It's a Panda Express world and we are just living in it! I actually call restaurants before I order their orange chicken, to make sure it's fried and not grilled; grilled orange chicken is a waste of my precious time. Anyhow, phew. This freakin' sandwich is exactly what a sandwich should be: a Panda Express knockoff in a bun.

Chrissy Teigen's Couscous Salad with Apricot Basil Dressing by Chrissy Teigen

We originally made this with boxed Moroccan-style couscous, but during the photo shoot, our stylists accidentally swapped in Israeli couscous and the recipe came out even better than the original! Also known as pearl couscous, Israeli couscous is actually made up of tiny pasta balls, similar to Italian fregola, and just super-great in pasta salads. Once you boil the Israeli couscous, you're ready to add a jillion things, turning it into a tasty ladies' lunch with leftovers. Here, we load it up with herbs, nuts, dried fruits and chickpeas, but a can of tuna, cubes of cheese or ribbons of smoked turkey would be more than welcome if you wanted that instead.

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If you like those crave-able recipes, you should also try these:

Chrissy Teigen's Garlicky Cauliflower "Rice" by Chrissy Teigen

Chrissy Teigen's Actual Drunken Noodles by Chrissy Teigen
A Colorado hiker who had wandered off the trail and got lost ignored repeated phone calls from rescuers because the hiker didnt recognize the number, officials said.

The person started hiking Mount Elbert from the South Trailhead on October 18 around 9 a.m., Lake County Search and Rescue said. The hiker did not return by evening. Five LCSAR members searched for the hiker until early the next morning but were unsuccessful.

The missing hiker finally showed up at their place of lodging around 9:30 a.m. and the search was called off, LCSAR said.

MISSING FLORIDA TEEN FOUND SAFE DAYS AFTER VANISHING, MOM SAYS

The hiker told rescue officials they had wandered off the trail around nightfall and could not find their way back. They said they spent the night searching for the trail, and once located, bounced around onto different trails trying to locate the proper trailhead  all while not realizing that a rescue team was out looking for them.

LCSAR said the subject ignored "repeated phone calls" because they simply didnt recognize the number.

LCSAR has now left other hikers with some advice: "If youre overdue according to your itinerary, and you start getting repeated calls from an unknown number, please answer the phone."

Fox News has reached out to LCSAR for additional comment.
Oxygen

A 20-year-old New York man was facing eight years in prison after pleading guilty to sexually assaulting four teenage girls during parties in his parents home, but this week a judge sentenced him to eight years of probation because jail was inappropriate. Im not ashamed to say that I actually prayed over what is the appropriate sentence in this case because there was great pain. There was great harm. There were multiple crimes committed in the case, Niagara County Judge Matthew J. Murphy I
Vaccination Clinic Administers Booster Shots In California

Safeway pharmacist Ashley McGee fills a syringe with the Pfizer COVID-19 booster vaccination at a vaccination booster shot clinic on October 01, 2021 in San Rafael, California. Credit - Justin SullivanGetty Images

When Americans divide themselves into camps, they stick to them fiercely: Democrats versus Republicans, pro-life versus pro-choice, gun rights versus gun control. Add to that, as has become apparent over the course of the past year, those who are pro- versus anti-coronavirus vaccines. As with so many other polarizing issues, your position on getting or not getting inoculated against COVID-19 has become more than a medical question. Its morphed into a form of cultural identifier, a sign of your membership in one tribe or another.

More than ever, thats becoming clear as booster shots are rolled out around the nation, with about 70 million Americans now eligible for an additional dose and tens of millions more set to join them as the eligibility age inevitably falls. The extra dose comes as very good news to a lot of the populationpeople who are mindful of the way vaccine-induced antibody levels fall over time and anxious to bump them back up. But that doesnt remotely include everybody, with resistance to even initial vaccinations keeping the country far from the much hoped-for herd immunity.

All of this is playing out as the government looks beyond first doses and encourages Americans to step up for their extra dose. Plenty of people are responding. According to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), booster rates are now exceeding first-shot rates across the country. In the week ending October 24, just over 400,000 people per day were getting boosters, compared to just over 200,000 receiving their first shots.



Those numbers have been moving in a sort of Newtonian, equal-and-opposite dance since late August, when more than 400,000 people daily were getting first doses and boosters were just being rolled out to the immunocompromised. The lines crossed in late September, when the CDC recommended Pfizer-BioNTech boosters for at-risk groups, and the upward trend for boosters and downward trend for first shots has continued since. Boosters got another bump on October 21, when the CDC approved additional doses of the Moderna and J&J vaccines.

Those recommendations, CDC director Rochelle Walensky said in a statement last week, are another example of our fundamental commitment to protect as many people as possible from COVID-19. When it comes to the boosters, the governments pro-vaccine message is apparently being heard. When it comes to first doses, not so much.

This story was adapted from The Coronavirus Brief, TIMEs daily COVID-19 newsletter. Sign up here.
Comedian Dave Chappelle said Monday he'd be willing to meet with transgender employees of Netflix who have called for the streaming platform to remove his October comedy special, "The Closer."

But Chappelle said any meeting would have to be on his terms: "You will not summon me."

"First of all, you cannot come if you have not watched my special from beginning to end," he said in a video posted to Instagram Monday. "You must come to a place of my choosing, at a time of my choosing. And thirdly you must admit that Hannah Gadsby is not funny."

Gadsby, a comedian whose work has also been streamed on Netflix, said on Instagram that Chappelle's special would unleash "hate and anger" for the LGBTQ+ community even as Chappelle makes millions of dollars "to process his emotionally stunted partial world view."

Gadsby did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

"The Closer," featuring Chappelle's views on transgender rights and identity, has outraged many in the LGBTQ+ community.

Image: BESTPIX: Netflix Trans Employees and Allies Walkout In Protest Of Dave Chappelle Special (Rodin Eckenroth / Getty Images)

On Oct. 20, dozens of Netflix employees walked out of the company's headquarters in Hollywood to protest its continued streaming of the special. The company's CEO, Ted Sarandos, has held fast with Chappelle, but on Oct. 19 said "I screwed up" when it came to communicating with employees genuinely hurt by the comedian's words.

"I should have led with a lot more humanity," he said in an interview with Variety. "Meaning, I had a group of employees who were definitely feeling pain and hurt from a decision we made. And I think that needs to be acknowledged up front before you get into the nuts and bolts of anything. I didn't do that."

Rodrigo Heng-Lehtinen, executive director for the National Center for Transgender Equality, argued by email that Chappelle's offer to meet with Netflix's transgender employees would do little to change the impact of his words.

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"The stakes are high but sometimes those who are unfamiliar with real transgender people cant see or understand how harmful their words and actions are to those real people," he said.

On Monday, Chappelle credited Sarandos for sticking with him when others haven't.

His Instagram video, recorded on-stage in front of an audience, focused on how the uproar is impacting Chappelle's own right to exist.

He said that since the "The Closer" debuted to instant backlash on Oct. 5, he's had trouble releasing his documentary, "Untitled."

He said the documentary, about staging comedy in a neighbor's Ohio cornfield in reaction to the pandemic and the murder of George Floyd, has been disinvited from venues.

"And now, today, not a film company, not a movie studio, not a film festival, nobody will touch this film," he said. "Thank god for Ted Sarandos and Netflix. Hes the only one that didnt cancel me yet."

He used the moment to promote the showing of "Untitled" in ten cities in November.

Chappelle said the backlash to the "The Closer" wasn't the product of the transgender community. He blamed corporate media.

"I want everyone in this audience to know that even though the media frames this that its me versus that community," he said. "That is not what it is. Do not blame the LGBTQ community for any of this [expletive]. This has nothing to do with them. This is about corporate interests and what I can say and what I cannot say."

Chappelle ended his video statement by suggesting he's yet to be fully "canceled."

"You have to answer the question, 'Am I canceled or not?'" he said.

The crowd shouted, "No."

"Then lets go," Chapelle said. "Thank you very much, and good night."

This story first appeared on NBCNews.com.
Oct. 26EAU CLAIRE  A search warrant that occurred last week at the Eau Claire County Department of Human Services office greatly impacted employees and the community members they serve, according to the department director.

The search warrant was executed by the Eau Claire County Sheriff's Office as part of its ongoing investigation into DHS financial practices that began in May 2020. Last Monday, Sheriff's Office deputies seized financial records and computer equipment from DHS offices located in the county government complex at 721 Oxford St., where the Sheriff's Office also resides.

During its meeting Monday, the DHS Board received information about the search warrant and expressed support for the department.

DHS Director Diane Cable said the search warrant was executed primarily in her office and DHS fiscal staff offices. No records containing personal information of people served by DHS were provided to the Sheriff's Office during the search warrant, Cable said.

"The records that I'm aware that they've taken are all fiscally related," Cable said.

Sheriff's Office investigators will review the information gathered last week and determine if potential crimes or wrongdoing occurred and who may need to be interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.

Cable said she has "no awareness of any wrongdoing within the department. The department and staff here continue to be cooperative in providing and responding to the information requested."

Sheriff Ron Cramer has repeatedly expressed frustration that the county has not been more cooperative with the investigation.

'Profound effect'

Cable said the execution of the search warrant had "a profound effect" on DHS employees, but they continued to work with vulnerable community members.

"We have committed and dedicated staff as public servants who even in the midst of challenging situations continue to serve and respond to the needs of the department and those we serve," Cable said. "While it was stressful, people were very cooperative in responding to the request, and we are working to continue to move forward."

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Katherine Schneider, County Board supervisor and DHS Board member, expressed "heartfelt thanks to the staff" of DHS for "coming to work after that disruptive way the warrant (was) served."

Colleen Bates, County Board supervisor and DHS Board chairwoman, agreed. According to Bates and others, Sheriff's Office deputies executed the search warrant while wearing flak jackets and possessing weapons.

"I found that extremely upsetting," Bates said.

Bates noted how unusual the execution of the search warrant was and expressed concern with the investigation's impact on the perception of county government.

"In all the years I've served on the County Board, I have never heard of one department serving a warrant on another," Bates said. "What impact does this have on the reputation of the county? I can't believe there's anything that will come out of this (investigation) that shows any criminal activity, but I think the impact will be long-lasting."

County Board Chairman Nick Smiar reiterated that the investigation has no connection to the County Board and that he and the County Board support DHS.

"This is a totally independent investigation request, and in my opinion, an improper one," Smiar said during Monday's meeting. "You have the support of the board in this process, and we have no indication and no reason to believe that there's anything that has gone amiss."

Smiar, who last week called on Cramer to end the investigation, expects it to remain open for the foreseeable future.

"My opinion is the sheriff will probably continue this as long as he can, which would be a long time, because in order to close it, there's going to have to be an admission that there's nothing there," Smiar said.

The investigation began in May 2020 as a fact-finding inquiry into DHS financial practices. That came shortly after Supervisors Mark Beckfield and Steve Chilson, representing what they said was a double-digit number of County Board supervisors who had similar concerns about DHS, spoke with Cramer.

Smiar has maintained that Beckfield and Chilson acted improperly by speaking to the sheriff as representatives of the County Board and requesting the inquiry.

Martha Nieman, County Board supervisor and DHS Board member, asked Monday if Beckfield and Chilson can be held accountable for speaking with Cramer and effectively starting the investigation. Smiar said they cannot.

"I assure you if there was a way to do it, I would've done it," Smiar said. "The answer is no."

"That's too bad." Nieman replied. "With the amount of trouble that's been caused, I think those people should stand up and give their reasons and speak publicly."

Smiar also said that the county is no longer working with Rich White, an attorney hired in September 2020 to provide outside counsel for the county on the sheriff's investigation. White is a former Eau Claire County district attorney.

White is not currently being retained by the county because "the service is not needed at this point, and we are looking at other alternatives," Smiar said.

Upcoming budget

During the meeting, Schneider expressed concern that the search warrant could impact the DHS 2022 budget. Smiar noted the same concern during a recent interview with the Leader-Telegram.

The DHS Board discussed a proposed 2022 budget amendment from the county Finance and Budget Committee that would create six new positions at DHS in 2022 instead of the 11.83 full-time-equivalent workers proposed in County Administrator Kathryn Schauf's budget recommendation. The amendment allows for the remaining 5.83 FTE positions to be reconsidered by no later than next June, ideally when DHS has filled its vacancies.

Cable spoke against the amendment, saying it "is not allowing us as a department to be responsible in responding to the needs of the community."

Smiar said the DHS budget request must be presented clearly when the County Board considers the 2022 budget on Nov. 2. If that occurs, Smiar thinks the department "will have enough allies on the (County) Board to defeat the amendment."

Vacancy update

The DHS Board also received an update on department vacancies. DHS currently has 18.5 full-time equivalent vacancies, meaning there are 18 vacant full-time positions and one vacant part-time position.

Of those vacancies, Cable said four people are starting soon, and recruitment is taking place for the remaining 14.5 FTE. Those vacancy numbers are separate from the 11.5 FTE positions DHS has on the county bridge plan.

Cable said a few applicants for vacant jobs in the past 18 months have said they didn't want to work at DHS because of the ongoing Sheriff's Office investigation.

Financial update

Through August, the most recent month for which data is available, DHS had a deficit of about $62,000. That figure comes from a revenue deficit of about $523,000 and expenditures savings of about $461,000. That number is expected to decrease to about $30,000 when the 2021 wage increase cost is applied, according to department fiscal staff.

Through the first eight months of 2021, DHS has spent $21.39 million on its programs, $2.65 million below its budgeted amount of $24.04 million. That means the department has spent 59.3% of its annual budget of just over $36 million through 66.7% of the year.

The County Board meets Nov. 2 to consider the county's 2022 budget.
The Conversation

If authorized, molnupiravir could be a key oral treatment to help keep COVID-19 patients out of the hospital. Plyushkin/iStock via Getty Images PlusNearly two years into the pandemic, it has become starkly clear that we need better treatments for COVID-19 for people in the earlier stages of disease. Two new antiviral drugs could soon be the first effective oral treatments for COVID-19 to help keep people out of the hospital. An advisory committee to the Food and Drug Administration plans to revi
Ethiopia's military on Tuesday launched another air strike in war-torn Tigray, hitting what a government official called a rebel training facility just outside the regional capital Mekele.

Tigray was pounded by near-daily aerial bombardments last week in a sign the military was stepping up its use of air power in the year-long war against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

The bombings in the northern and western parts of Tigray have drawn international censure, and disrupted UN access to the region where an estimated 400,000 people face famine-like conditions under a de-facto aid blockade.

The latest strike was in Quiha, a town five kilometres (three miles) east of Mekele, which the TPLF recaptured from government forces in June and has held ever since.

"A special-forces training centre for the terrorist group TPLF has been the target of today's airstrike," government spokeswoman Selamawit Kassa said.

"(A) large number of the group's illegally recruited military personnel were taking military trainings at this center."

TPLF spokesman Kindeya Gebrehiwot denied such a facility was hit, saying fighter jets bombed farmland 25 kilometres east of Mekele and attempted another strike but were repelled by their air defence systems.

"There was no military target nor a training center. The intention is to terrorize the people of Tigray," he said.

Last week, Ethiopia's air force carried out eight strikes on targets which the government said were military in nature and aiding the TPLF.

Most were in and around Mekele. But on Sunday the military confirmed strikes further afield in Adwa to the north of the capital, and another along the 'western front' of the war at Mai Tsebri.

The UN said two strikes on Mekele on October 18 killed three children and wounded several other people.

The TPLF said the strikes were evidence of the government's disregard for civilian lives.

- Aid access -

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The escalation in aerial assaults coincides with ramped-up fighting in Amhara region, south of Tigray.

Western powers, including the US, have condemned the strikes as an unacceptable risk to civilians.

A strike Friday on Mekele forced a UN flight carrying 11 humanitarian personnel to turn back to the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa, and the UN subsequently announced it was suspending its twice-weekly flights to the region.

The conflict has spurred fears of widespread starvation in Tigray, with the UN and other agencies reporting chronic difficulties getting aid supplies into the stricken region.

The UN said last week that fuel shortages had forced some relief groups to suspend food distribution in a region where 5.2 million need aid.

Earlier in the month, it said the number of young children hospitalised due to severe malnutrition between February and August was double the number recorded during the same period last year.

AFP has documented starvation deaths in multiple parts of Tigray, based on internal documents from aid groups active there.

Tigray erupted in conflict in November 2020 after Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed sent troops to topple the TPLF, the region's former ruling party.

The 2019 Nobel Peace laureate said the move came in response to TPLF attacks on army camps and promised a swift victory, but by late June the rebels had regrouped and retaken most of the region, including Mekele.

rcb-np/lc
By Andrea Shalal

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The World Bank's board has turned down a request by IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva for a meeting to defend herself against claims that she pressured staff to alter data as the bank's CEO in 2017, according to two sources briefed on the situation.

An attorney hired by Georgieva asked for the meeting in a 17-page letter on Friday to the dean of the bank's board.

The attorney, Whitney Debevoise of Arnold & Porter, wrote that an investigation report prepared by the WilmerHale law firm for the board was improperly conducted, violated Georgieva's due process rights, and based its fundamental conclusion on a false assumption, according to a copy of the letter viewed by Reuters.

WilmerHale concluded in September that officials including Georgieva applied "undue pressure" https://www.reuters.com/business/sustainable-business/world-bank-kills-business-climate-report-after-ethics-probe-cites-undue-pressure-2021-09-16 on bank staff to alter data to favor China in the bank's Doing Business 2018 rankings.

Georgieva has denied the allegations and the board of the International Monetary Fund, which Georgieva has headed since October 2019, this month found no conclusive evidence https://www.reuters.com/business/imf-board-resume-debate-over-georgievas-future-later-monday-2021-10-11 to support accusations of wrongdoing.

The World Bank board told Debevoise it would be inappropriate to meet or hear from Georgieva since it has no role in a separate probe being conducted by WilmerHale about potential wrongdoing by current and former bank staff, including Georgieva, according to a person briefed on the conversation.

That report, expected in about two months, will go to the bank's human resources department, not the board.

The dean of the board Merza Hasan, the chair of the board's ethics committee and the head of a separate panel on governance all rejected the request, sources close to the board said.

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In a joint response described to Reuters, the three officials told the board they would not be sharing Debevoise's letter or earlier statements by Georgieva, saying the bank's rules are intended to prevent "any interference from the board or any other party" in staff investigations, the sources said.

The three officials communicated separately with Debevoise's law firm.

A World Bank spokesperson declined to comment on the latest developments, saying the bank did not comment on investigations.

WilmerHale did not respond to requests for comment on the Debevoise letter. Earlier this month, the firm said its report followed all applicable World Bank rules, and Georgieva had been told the World Bank could disclose any information she provided.

IMF, WORLD BANK RIFT

Debevoise is a former member of the World Bank's board. His retention, together with Georgieva's demand the World Bank board hear her story, could feed a widening rift between the IMF chief and World Bank officials.

The two development banks together fund tens of billions of dollars in climate, health and anti-poverty programs in poor countries.

World Bank President David Malpass and Georgieva have played a leading role in shaping the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both are due to attend meetings this week of the Group of 20 global economies and a United Nations climate conference.

The World Bank board had been scheduled to meet informally on Monday, but canceled the gathering after Georgieva's public relations firm sent Debevoise's letter and other materials to board members. The board will reconvene when all stages of the staff investigation are complete, the sources said.

Georgieva could face sanctions if the second phase of the investigation finds wrongdoing on her part, including a ban on entry to World Bank facilities. She would not lose the pension she collects from the bank, according to bank rules.

The U.S. government, the largest shareholder in both institutions, this month said there was insufficient evidence to remove Georgieva from the IMF helm, but Treasury officials stressed they were keeping close tabs on the ongoing World Bank review.

Both Democratic and Republican lawmakers have raised concerns about Georgieva's IMF leadership.

On Tuesday, Democratic Senator Robert Menendez told a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee: "She's lost my confidence and I want to see how she actually can operate under these circumstances."

(Reporting by Andrea Shalal; additional reporting by David Lawder; editing by Heather Timmons and Howard Goller)
Facebook logo

Facebook has posted better-than-expected profits for the third quarter, as it continues to face bad press over leaked internal documents.

The social media giant made $9bn (6.5bn) of profit in the three months to September, up from $7.8bn last year.

However, it was hit by a new privacy update to Apple's iOS 14 operating system, which made it harder for brands to target ads at specific users.

It comes amid fresh claims of unethical behaviour made by a former employee.

Frances Haugen has released a cache of internal documents to the public, alleging that Facebook put profit before user safety.

Multiple media reports say the documents show Facebook struggled to moderate content that promoted hate speech and sex trafficking outside of the US.

On Monday, Facebook chief executive Mark Zuckerburg told investors on a conference call: "What we are seeing is a coordinated effort to selectively use leaked documents to paint a false picture of our company."

'Headwinds'

In the 12 months to 30 September, the social media giant said its monthly user-base had grown 6% to 2.91 billion.

However, despite its strong profits, its revenue slightly undershot analyst expectations, amid "headwinds" caused by Apple's privacy rules.

Facebook said the privacy update would also have an impact on its digital business in the final quarter of the year, but that it expected to adjust to the changes in time.

The firm said it would spend some $10bn on its metaverse division this year - known as Facebook Reality Labs - which is tasked with creating augmented and virtual reality hardware, software and content.

The world's largest social media network is under scrutiny from global lawmakers and regulators, including from the Federal Trade Commission, which has filed an antitrust lawsuit alleging anticompetitive practices.

The whistleblower documents, which were first reported by the Wall Street Journal, have only intensified that pressure.

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They include internal research about Instagram's effects on teen mental health; whether Facebook's platforms stoke division; and the social media giant's handling of the 6 January Capitol riot.

At a hearing on Monday, Ms Haugen told UK MPs that Facebook is "unquestionably making hate worse".

She said Facebook safety teams were under-resourced, and that "Facebook has been unwilling to accept even little slivers of profit being sacrificed for safety".

The MPs are considering what new rules to impose on big social networks under the planned Online Safety Bill.

But on his conference call, Mr Zuckerberg hit back: "Good faith criticism helps us get better, but my view is that we are seeing a coordinated effort to selectively use leaked documents to paint a false picture of our company.

"The reality is that we have an open culture that encourages discussion and research on our work so we can make progress on many complex issues that are not specific to just us."

Despite the allegations, shares in Facebook climbed by 1.3% in after hours trading on Monday. The firm's stock is up by about 20% so far this year.
Reuters

MOSCOW (Reuters) -The Kremlin denounced as "absurd" on Friday a resolution proposed by U.S. lawmakers to stop recognising Vladimir Putin as Russia's president if he stays in power after 2024, and described it as U.S. meddling in Russian affairs. Putin's term as president is due to end in 2024 and he can seek two more terms under constitutional amendments made during his presidency. The resolution introduced by two U.S. congressmen says the amendments were illegal and any attempt by Putin to remain in office after May 2024 "shall warrant nonrecognition on the part of the United States," according to a statement on the website of Congressman Steve Cohen, one of the lawmakers behind it.
Virginia GOP gubernatorial candidate Glenn Youngkin has made schools a central part of his campaign. (Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

In the final weeks of Virginias heated gubernatorial campaign, Republicans have been fanning the flames of transphobia, using a sexual assault in a Loudoun County school bathroom for political gain.

Their argument is fairly basic  that Democrat Terry McAuliffe and his ilk wont keep Virginians, especially children, safe. The election is Nov. 2.

But the facts of the case dont line up with their fearmongering, as the trial on Monday made clear.

Its not about Virginia. Its not about this case, the prosecutor, Loudoun County Commonwealths Attorney Buta Biberaj, told HuffPost. Its all about how theyre taking these incidents and unfortunate circumstances, creating disinformation, done solely for the purpose of them promoting their agenda. And that is unfortunate because we have real people who are living these experiences.

The sexual assault occurred in the girls bathroom of a Loudoun County high school in May. The victims parents claimed that the perpetrator wore a skirt and identified as gender fluid. Those characterizations were swiftly picked up by Republicans and conservative media, who said it was evidence that bathroom policies allowing transgender individuals to use the facility based on their own gender identity put women in danger.

The boy was transferred to another high school, where he was accused of another sexual assault on Oct. 6, this time in an empty classroom. Republican Glenn Youngkin, who is running for governor against McAuliffe, has called for the resignations of the Loudoun County superintendent and school board, accusing them of covering up what happened.

The case even made its way to Congress. Senate Republicans used a hearing for a judicial nominee, who would serve on a court based in California, to further talk about the Loudoun County case  even though the nominee said she wasnt familiar with it.

Do you stand by your comments in these [2016] briefs that there is no evidence of violence or crime in restrooms by allowing biological males to use biological females restrooms? asked Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.).

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But the Loudoun County case appears to have absolutely nothing to do with bathroom policies based on gender identity.

First of all, Loudoun County does have transgender-inclusive bathroom policies in schools. But they werent in place when the assault happened on May 28. The school board did not even approve it until Aug. 11.

Mondays trial gave even more evidence that the right-wing narrative was inaccurate.

Authorities still have not commented on the attackers gender identity. Both the victim and her attacker  who has consistently been referred to as a male  have said that he was wearing a skirt on the day of the attack.

But Biberaj told HuffPost that based on the facts that came out at the trial, gender identity was never an issue in the case.

Republicans have long conjured images of transgender predators who utilize bathrooms as hunting grounds to scare people about inclusive bathroom policies. But those are myths. Government, law enforcement and school officials in places with transgender-inclusive policies say the bathroom predator has no basis in fact. Sexual assault is also already against the law, whether in a bathroom or elsewhere.

And indeed, the facts of the Loudoun County case they have been touting dont seem to line up either, as The Washington Post recounted from the trial:

On Monday, the teenage victim of the Stone Bridge assault testified that she and her attacker had agreed to meet up in a school bathroom around 12:15 p.m. on the date of the assault. She testified they had not explicitly discussed having sex beforehand. The teen testified she arrived first and chose to go in the girls bathroom because the two had always met in the girls bathrooms in the past. When the boy arrived, the teen testified, he came into the handicapped stall she was in and locked the door. The two talked, before the girl testified the boy began grabbing her neck and other parts of her body in a sexual manner. She testified she told her attacker she was not in the mood for sex, but he forced himself on her.

The judge found the boy, who is now 15, guilty.

Education policy has become central to Youngkins campaign for governor, taking up the cause of parents  who are often GOP activists  who oppose mask mandates, vaccine mandates and teaching children about race.

On Monday, he released an ad featuring a woman advocating for more parental say in schools. The woman previously launched a campaign to ban Toni Morrisons Pulitzer Prize-winning book Beloved from her sons school.

Biberaj said she has been frustrated to see the Loudoun County case, and the victims experience, used for political purposes.

I just really would like for the rhetoric to die down and for us to not lose focus  because in these types of cases, its about individuals and families  and for these outside operatives to stop hurting my community, she said. Because once theyre done, we are left with the destruction. And I want to make sure that we can always survive from any harm that comes from our community. This is just making it that much harder for us to be able to continue to live together.

Need help? Visit RAINNs National Sexual Assault Online Hotline or the National Sexual Violence Resource Centers website.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
Fans have called out the show's judges and production team as misrepresenting non-English cultures. BBC; Channel 4; Marianne Ayala/Insider

"The Great British Baking Show" has been accused of misrepresenting non-English cultures.

Season-seven baker Rav Bansal told Insider "it's time for new judges" who are more diverse.

Season four's Ali Imdad said the production staff should be held accountable for the issues.

Viewers and former contestants alike have criticized "The Great British Baking Show" for how it represents non-English cultures and recipes.

Specifically, some are calling for a more diverse group of judges and hosts, better execution of themed challenges and recipes, and more accountability from the show's production team.

Several contestants who've experienced the diversity issues firsthand told Insider it's time for the show to take responsibility for its missteps and make changes for the future.

One baker pointed out that the contestant pool is quite diverse, but the judges and hosts don't reflect that

Rav Bansal competed on season seven of "Bake Off." Channel 4

Season-seven baker Rav Bansal told Insider it's time for new judges who better represent the diverse cast of contestants competing on the show, known as "The Great British Bake Off" in the UK.

Throughout the 11 seasons of "The Great British Baking Show," there has never been a host or judge of color.

"I think it's time for new judges," Bansal told Insider. "The show does a great job bringing together contestants from all walks of life that make up British society - different races, religions, sexualities - but I would like to see that same diversity reflected in the judges and hosts."

Two contestants told Insider that the lack of diverse hosts and judges has led to some unfortunate interactions

Bansal told Insider that the lack of diversity affects how well the judges can score non-English flavors and recipes.

"Certain flavors and techniques are not as ubiquitous as others, and they can often get lost in translation," Bansal said.

The baker said he remembered Paul Hollywood "not knowing what a yuzu was" when Bansal used it in one of his cake recipes. Yuzu is a citrus fruit with an East Asian origin that's mostly cultivated in Japan, Korea, and China.

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On season nine, Antony Amourdoux was among several of the contestants, hosts, and judges who were called out by fans on Twitter for incorrectly referring to naan as "naan bread," which would translate to "bread bread," during a technical challenge.

Many "Bake Off" fans were confused about how the Indian baker could make that mistake since the dish is so popular in many parts of the country. But Amourdoux clarified during the episode that he's "not from the region that makes naans," and he told Insider he experienced other uncomfortable moments behind-the-scenes.

"It was just awful. Sandi [Toksvig] - who was the presenter then - came out said, 'You're going to smash the next challenge' and I came literally at the bottom of the pile," Amourdoux said. "There is no naan down south. I can't for the life of me ever remember my mom making naan."

"I actually remember Prue Leith telling me that when my mom watched the show she would be absolutely insulted watching me on TV," he told Insider. "But there ain't no naan down south!"

Representatives for Sandi Toksvig and Prue Leith did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment on Amourdoux's recollections.

Another contestant said the production team, rather than individual bakers, is to blame for some of the show's missteps with non-English recipes

One baker made panda-themed buns on Japanese week. Channel 4

Season four's Ali Imdad told Insider that he blames the production staff, not always the individual contestants, for cultural misrepresentations on the show.

He was especially shocked by how the series handled its Japanese-themed week on 2020's season 11.

"I'm not particularly sensitive because I understand that not everyone is going to know other people's culture. I get that," he said. "But when half the contestants were saying, 'It's not really Japanese, it's Chinese,' and one of them was making panda buns I was thinking, 'That has nothing to do with Japan.'"

"I'm not going to blame the contestants for that," Imdad continued. "I just thought it was a bit weird that the production company could be like, 'This is acceptable.'"

Imdad explained that the bakers have to get all their recipes approved before they start filming the episode, so there was time to fix these issues before the challenges even occurred.

"Before filming is even discussed, the recipes would've gone from the contestants to the production company and they would've had to approve it," Imdad said. "I don't understand why they would give the theme of Japan and then see stuff that came through that was Chinese and say, 'This is fine. No one will notice. What's the difference?'"

He said the production team was "sloppy to let that slide."

Although the show isn't perfect, some bakers gave it credit for expanding beyond traditional UK recipes

The season-nine bakers made Ma'amoul as a technical challenge. Channel 4

Although bakers said the series has a ways to go when it comes to representing non-English flavors, some appreciate that the show is trying to expand its horizons.

For example, though "Japanese Week" had its flaws, Japanese pastry chef Tomoko Kato told Insider's Debanjali Bose in 2020 that the matcha-crepe-cake technical challenge was pretty fitting for Japan-themed baking.

"In Japan, French patisseries are very common," Kato said. "You often see Japanese chefs studying abroad and returning to Japan with those influences."

The show has also featured food from around the globe like Hungarian Dobos tortes, German schichttorte cakes, Cyprian flaouna pastries, and Spanish churros over the years.

"There's so much effort that goes into getting a diverse set of bakers and the food producers go out of their way to actually look at bakes across the world," Amourdoux told Insider. "I remember my year we did Ma'amoul, which is Middle Eastern."

Amourdoux told Insider that these different bakes from non-English cultures make the show "pretty cool" for fans from around the globe to watch.

"It's not just bakes from the UK," he said. "You've got to have some spice and culture. That's what makes it interesting every year."

Representatives for "The Great British Baking Show" did not immediately respond to Insider's request for comment.

Follow along with our series of interviews to see what else the former bakers revealed to Insider.

Read the original article on Insider
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  A religious organization whose 17 missionaries were kidnapped in Haiti almost a week ago defended its work in dangerous places on Tuesday.

The statement from Christian Aid Ministries comes as U.S. and Haitian authorities keep working to secure the release of the 12 adults and five children, including an 8-month-old, who were kidnapped Oct. 16 near the capital of Port-au-Prince.

Occasionally we are asked why our workers were in Haiti, the organization said, adding that they want to share the impact religion has had on their own lives. We want others to enjoy the joy, peace, and redemption we have experienced.

U.S. officials have reiterated that the government issued a warning in August about the risk of kidnapping for ransom in Haiti, where the leader of the 400 Mawozo gang that abducted the 16 Americans and one Canadian recently threatened to kill the group if his demands are not met.

Haitian officials have said the gang is demanding $1 million ransom per head, but that it wasnt clear if that included the children. A local human rights organization has said that the group's Haitian driver also was kidnapped.

On Tuesday, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the situation will be a topic of conversation at the upcoming G20 meeting, adding that the U.S. and other countries need to step up and give Haiti the kind of investment and international aid it requires.

He said he personally gives U.S. President Joe Biden an update daily on the situation, noting that several law enforcement and hostage recovery specialists are working with the religious organization, the families of the victims and the Haitian government to try to coordinate and organize a recovery.

We are looking at every possible option for how to go about doing that, Sullivan said. But these things operate and have operated in Haiti historically on different timetables, under different circumstances. And so we need to manage this situation as carefully as possible so that at the end of the day, we achieve our objective, which is the safe return of every single one of those (abducted).

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On Monday, the religious organization issued a statement pleading with people to not grow weary and to keep praying: We don't know how God will choose to bring resolution, but we desire that His will be done.

As recovery efforts continue, Haiti's capital on Tuesday was once again paralyzed by a two-day strike in which the streets were largely empty as severe fuel shortages blamed on gangs blocking gas distribution terminals continued. Jimmy Cherizier, leader of G9 Family and Allies, a federation of gangs considered Haiti's largest and most powerful, held a press conference on Tuesday and said that if Prime Minister Ariel Henry stepped down on Tuesday night, he would reopen blocked roads on Wednesday to allow the flow of goods.

___

Benac reported from Washington, D.C. Associated Press writers Julie Carr Smyth in Columbus Ohio, and Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico, contributed to this report.
Sarah Lancashire won the Bafta for best leading actress for series two

Acclaimed hard-hitting police drama Happy Valley is to return for a third and last series.

The award-winning show follows Sarah Lancashire as police officer Catherine Cawood, tackling crime in the Yorkshire borough of Calderdale.

James Norton will return to play the murderer and sex offender Tommy Lee Royce, with Siobhan Finneran reprising her role as Catherine's sister.

The second series ended in 2016 with an average audience of 9.3 million.

Spoiler alert - some minor plot detail on previous series and upcoming episodes below.

On her return to the part of Catherine, Lancashire said: "It's time to let the dog see the rabbit," while Norton described taking "Tommy on one final time" as "a wonderful and daunting privilege".

For the six-part series three, which begins filming in early 2022, Catherine discovers the remains of a gangland murder victim in a drained reservoir. It sparks a chain of events that again unwittingly leads her straight back to Royce.

The first two series created by Sally Wainwright each won Bafta TV awards for best drama series and best writing. Lancashire also won a Bafta for best leading actress for series two.

Her character in both series was seen grappling with intense and brutal storylines that centred around cases of rape, multiple murders, drugs, kidnapping and human trafficking.

James Norton plays Catherine's nemesis Tommy Lee Royce

Norton's character Royce was often implicated in such terrible crimes.

Catherine had to deal with this brutality while trying to navigate a complicated home life, which involved raising her grandson after his mother, who was raped resulting in the pregnancy, took her own life.

While Happy Valley series one and two garnered more than healthy audiences and rave critic reviews, there was disquiet expressed by some over the amount of violence and graphic content, but Wainwright defended such scenes.

Line of Duty rumours

Wainwright, who hinted at the return of the series at the Edinburgh TV Festival earlier this year, said of the announcement: "It's been wonderful to see the lasting impact this series has had on audiences all over the world.

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"I'm thrilled that Sarah, James and Siobhan are back on board for what I hope will be the best season yet."

Martin Compston has played Steve Arnott since Line Of Duty began in 2012

Piers Wenger, director of BBC drama, said: "When Happy Valley first launched on the BBC in 2014, it changed the landscape of crime drama completely.

"Sally has crafted a magnificent conclusion that is sure to make this third and final series one of television's most highly anticipated and unmissable moments."

Meanwhile, rumours surrounding a seventh series of another "not-to-be-missed" cop drama, Line of Duty, continue to circulate.

Earlier this month, the series' creator joked about newspaper stories claiming the show was to make a comeback, despite no confirmation from the BBC.

Jed Mercurio tweeted: "Tabloids announce new season of fake #LineofDuty clickbait," claims TV insider."

The speculation over the show has been sparked by its enormous popularity, one which led to May's BBC finale pulling in 15.24 million viewers, which made it the UK's most-watched drama series of the 21st Century.

Follow us on Facebook or on Twitter @BBCNewsEnts. If you have a story suggestion email entertainment.news@bbc.co.uk.
Even when a business is losing money, it's possible for shareholders to make money if they buy a good business at the right price. For example, although software-as-a-service business Salesforce.com lost money for years while it grew recurring revenue, if you held shares since 2005, you'd have done very well indeed. Nonetheless, only a fool would ignore the risk that a loss making company burns through its cash too quickly.

Given this risk, we thought we'd take a look at whether Venture Minerals (ASX:VMS) shareholders should be worried about its cash burn. In this report, we will consider the company's annual negative free cash flow, henceforth referring to it as the 'cash burn'. We'll start by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves in order to calculate its cash runway.

Check out our latest analysis for Venture Minerals

Does Venture Minerals Have A Long Cash Runway?

A company's cash runway is calculated by dividing its cash hoard by its cash burn. As at June 2021, Venture Minerals had cash of AU$9.5m and no debt. Looking at the last year, the company burnt through AU$11m. Therefore, from June 2021 it had roughly 10 months of cash runway. To be frank, this kind of short runway puts us on edge, as it indicates the company must reduce its cash burn significantly, or else raise cash imminently. Importantly, if we extrapolate recent cash burn trends, the cash runway would be noticeably longer. The image below shows how its cash balance has been changing over the last few years.

How Is Venture Minerals' Cash Burn Changing Over Time?

Whilst it's great to see that Venture Minerals has already begun generating revenue from operations, last year it only produced AU$6.2k, so we don't think it is generating significant revenue, at this point. Therefore, for the purposes of this analysis we'll focus on how the cash burn is tracking. The skyrocketing cash burn up 185% year on year certainly tests our nerves. It's fair to say that sort of rate of increase cannot be maintained for very long, without putting pressure on the balance sheet. Admittedly, we're a bit cautious of Venture Minerals due to its lack of significant operating revenues. We prefer most of the stocks on this list of stocks that analysts expect to grow.

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Can Venture Minerals Raise More Cash Easily?

Since its cash burn is moving in the wrong direction, Venture Minerals shareholders may wish to think ahead to when the company may need to raise more cash. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. Many companies end up issuing new shares to fund future growth. By looking at a company's cash burn relative to its market capitalisation, we gain insight on how much shareholders would be diluted if the company needed to raise enough cash to cover another year's cash burn.

Venture Minerals' cash burn of AU$11m is about 17% of its AU$66m market capitalisation. Given that situation, it's fair to say the company wouldn't have much trouble raising more cash for growth, but shareholders would be somewhat diluted.

Is Venture Minerals' Cash Burn A Worry?

On this analysis of Venture Minerals' cash burn, we think its cash burn relative to its market cap was reassuring, while its increasing cash burn has us a bit worried. Looking at the factors mentioned in this short report, we do think that its cash burn is a bit risky, and it does make us slightly nervous about the stock. Separately, we looked at different risks affecting the company and spotted 6 warning signs for Venture Minerals (of which 2 shouldn't be ignored!) you should know about.

Of course Venture Minerals may not be the best stock to buy. So you may wish to see this free collection of companies boasting high return on equity, or this list of stocks that insiders are buying.

This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.



Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.
Local Virginia TV stations including ABC, CBS and NBC have refused to air an ad depicting sexually explicit materials that are widely available to students in school libraries in the state, citing federal law which prohibits airing pornographic images.

Its shocking that images, and even some words, that federal law prohibits TV stations to share with adults are the same images being shared with Virginia students with no accountability, said Victoria Coley, vice president of communications at Independent Womens Voice (IWV), which created the ad.

The 30-second ad, titled Worth 1,000 Words, includes a full screen spread from Gender Queer by Maia Kobae, a book that was available in schools in several Virginia districts, including Fairfax, Loudon and Arlington, according to IWV.

IWV attempted to air the ad after 11 p.m. to show adults the shockingly explicit materials that students have access to in schools, but was told that federal law prohibits sharing pornographic images on air, even if they are aired late at night and for news purposes.

Independent Womens Voice has been told to stand downthat we are trying to push out inappropriate materials that violate federal regulationswhen we are simply highlighting wildly inappropriate books in Virginia schools, said IWV vice president Carrie Lukas. All we want is to make sure that parents and citizens know what is happening in the schools they are paying for and trusting with their children.

IWV has since submitted a second ad with the sexually explicit material blurred out.

The ad notes that Virginias Democratic gubernatorial candidate Terry McAuliffe, who served as governor of Virginia from 2014 to 2018, vetoed a bill permitting parents to block sexually explicit books in school during his time in office.

Last month, during a debate with his Republican opponent, Glenn Youngkin, McAuliffe argued that parents should not tell schools what to teach.

The comment came in response to Youngkins remark that parents should be more involved in the decisions of local school districts during the second and final debate of the race.

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What weve seen over the course of this last 20 months is our school systems refusing to engage with parents, Youngkin said. In fact, in Fairfax County this past week, we watched parents so upset because there was such sexually explicit material in the library they had never seen, it was shocking.

Youngkin noted that McAuliffe vetoed the bill that would have informed parents that they were there.

You believe school systems should tell children what to do. I believe parents should be in charge of their kids education, the Republican said to his opponent.

The former governor replied that parents would have had the right to veto books under the bill he vetoed.

Im not going to let parents come into schools, and actually take books out, and make their own decision, McAuliffe said.

Yeah, I stopped the bill that I dont think parents should be telling schools what they should teach, he added.

More from National Review
TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  Israel is sending an envoy to Washington amid a deepening rift with the Biden administration over six outlawed Palestinian rights groups, a Foreign Ministry official said Tuesday.

Israel last week designated the prominent Palestinian human rights groups as terrorist organizations, sparking international criticism and repeated assertions by Israel's top strategic partner, the United States, that there had been no advance warning of the move.

Israel's decision marked what critics say was a major escalation of its decades-long crackdown on political activism in the occupied territories. The U.S. State Department has said it would seek more information on the decision.

Joshua Zarka, a senior Israeli Foreign Ministry official, told Israeli Army Radio the envoy would give them all the details and to present them all the intelligence during his visit in the coming days.

Zarka said he personally updated U.S. officials on Israel's intention to outlaw the groups last week, and said he believed Washington wanted a more thorough explanation of the decision.

The rights groups decision is emerging as a test of the relationship between the Biden administration and Israel's new government, which was formed in June by eight politically disparate parties. The coalition ended the 12-year rule of former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Netanyahu's hardline government enjoyed broad support from the Trump administration, which moved the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem, largely allowed settlement building to continue unfettered, cut funding to the Palestinians and presented a vision for the Mideast that sided with Israels positions.

The Biden administration has mostly restored traditional foreign policy toward Israel and the Palestinians. But with the U.S. focused on other pressing domestic and foreign issues, the conflict was expected to take a backseat.

The fractious coalition government has also sought to minimize the Palestinian issue, agreeing not to make major moves that might threaten its stability. But in recent weeks, it has ramped up focus on the conflict, offering a number of goodwill gestures to Palestinians in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip and also pushing forward on building thousands of new homes for Jewish settlers.

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Most dramatic was the decision on the civil society groups, which has rattled the coalition and returned focus to the conflict and Israel's decades-long occupation of territories the Palestinians seek for a future state.

Israel has for years alleged the groups' links to a Palestinian militant group but even under Netanyahu's hardline government, stopped short of labeling them terrorist organizations.

The announcement has outraged the activist community in Israel, which in recent years has also faced pushback from hardline Israeli governments. In a joint statement Monday, more than 20 Israeli human rights groups, including some of the country's leading, most established organizations, condemned the step, calling it a draconian measure that criminalizes critical human rights work.

On Tuesday, the United Nations' High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet also criticized the designation, saying it was an attack on human rights defenders and calling for it to be rescinded.

The declaration against the Palestinian rights groups appeared to pave the way for Israel to raid their offices, seize assets, arrest staff and criminalize any public expressions of support for the groups. Most of the targeted organizations document alleged human rights violations by Israel as well as the Palestinian Authority, both of which routinely detain Palestinian activists.

The designated groups are Al-Haq, a human rights group founded in 1979, as well as the Addameer rights group, Defense for Children International-Palestine, the Bisan Center for Research and Development, the Union of Palestinian Womens Committees and the Union of Agricultural Work Committees.
JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Jerusalem's mayor dismissed media speculation on Tuesday that a U.S. consulate for Palestinians in the city would be denied municipal services if the Biden administration reopens it despite Israeli opposition.

The rightist mayor, Moshe Lion, also said Washington's plan to reverse the Trump administration's subsuming of the consulate into the U.S. Embassy that was moved to Jerusalem from Tel Aviv in 2018 did not appear to be close to implementation.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken this month reiterated the plan to reopen the consulate as part of efforts to rebuild ties with the Palestinians but gave no timeline.

Asked on Israel's Army Radio whether the municipality might consider cutting off water or power to a future consulate, or refusing to collect its rubbish, Lion said: "No way ... There is no such intention."

"Wherever the municipality has to provide services, it will provide services," he said. "One has to provide this by law, and there is no reason not to do so."

The consulate had long been a base for diplomatic outreach to the Palestinians before it was closed by U.S. President Joe Bidens predecessor, Donald Trump.

Palestinians want the city's east for their own future, hoped-for state. Israel deems all Jerusalem its capital alone, and says reopening the consulate could signal partition and weaken nationalist Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's coalition.

"I very much hope that the diplomatic officials, the government of Israel, will prevent the establishment of this consulate," Lion said. "I think that is what is happening right now. I don't think we are on very high stand-by for this (consulate) getting built."

(Writing by Dan Williams, Editing by Timothy Heritage)
Joanna Lumley has suggested that legislation and a system of rationing could help tackle the climate crisis.

Speaking to Radio Times, the 75-year-old actor, who has campaigned against single-use plastic for years, said that these are tough times, and I think theres got to be legislation.

That was how the war was  stuff was rationed  and at some stage I think we might have to go back to some kind of system of rationing, where youre given a certain number of points and its up to you how to spend them, whether its buying a bottle of whisky or flying in an aeroplane, Lumley said.

She also claimed that people have got to think a bit harder when it comes to doing their bit for the environment.

Watch: Which countries release the most CO2?

Maybe more of our holidays should be at home or taking trains, and not hopping on a plane to Magaluf for the weekend, she said.

Every plastic bottle you dont buy, every piece of litter you pick up, every piece of meat you dont eat, every small thing counts.

Fans have reacted to the actors thoughts by criticising her for constantly flying around the world for her job.

While many supported Lumleys way of thinking, she was accused by some of hypocrisy due her work on various travel shows, including ones set in Japan, India and Egypt.

The idea of rationing to help climate has merit, one person tweeted. However, Joanna Lumley has travelled all around the UK for [a] new show, and is now working in Berlin. Its the richest one per cent that do the damage, focus there. We should ration celebrities.

Remind me, how many travel shows has Joanna Lumley made?

Funny how this only occurred to her when she had a new series about holidaying in Britain to plug. https://t.co/KjUbVHM1El  Jane Symons (@JaneSymons1) October 26, 2021

Agree. For years we have had an economy that is based on public consumer spending. This will take years to change.  vicki bolsover (@matrix100jaguar) October 26, 2021

Tired: Stop subsidising deadly fossil fuels



Wired: War time rationing system https://t.co/R8n5qnE6fP  Patrick Galey (@patrickgaley) October 26, 2021

Shes lived 75 privileged years. Now she wants ordinary folks lives subject to [Second World War]-style control and rationing? Nice one, Jo, a person wrote.

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Another added: Utter nonsense but playing neatly into Boris Johnsons love of wartime rhetoric.

There is a deeply embedded cultural belief that we were happier during WW2, that life was fairer, diet better & people kinder. Joanna Lumleys call for a return to rationing plays to this fallacy. Rationing didnt actually impact the rich the same way as the majority  JohnWhittle #WearAMask #VaccinesWork #GTTO (@whij) October 26, 2021

The Independent has contacted Lumleys representatives for comment.

Watch: Who is Greta Thunberg?

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SRINAGAR, India (AP)  Police in Indian-controlled Kashmir are investigating students and staff at two medical colleges under a harsh anti-terror law for celebrating India's loss to archrival Pakistan in a T20 World Cup cricket game, officials said Tuesday.

Police said some students and staff at the government-run colleges cheered and shouted pro-Pakistan slogans during the match Sunday night, calling it anti-national activity.

Pakistan crushed India by 10 wickets for its first-ever victory against its archrival in a T20 World Cup game in Dubai. Minutes after Pakistan won the match, hundreds of people in Kashmir danced in the streets, lit firecrackers and chanted Long live Pakistan while seeking the end of Indias rule over the disputed region.

The celebrations came as India's powerful home minister, Amit Shah, was visiting the region for the first time since New Delhi in 2019 stripped Kashmir of its semi-autonomy, scrapped its statehood and removed inherited protections on land and jobs, further fueling tensions in the region.

Love of cricket, a legacy of Britains long colonial role of South Asia, is one of the few things that unites Pakistan and India despite their long history of animosity that has fueled three wars since the subcontinents partition in 1947, including two over control of Kashmir, which is divided between the two nuclear-armed rivals.

The fracas over Sundays match shows how easily passions can be inflamed in predominantly Muslim Kashmir, where anti-India sentiment runs deep. Rebels have been fighting for Kashmirs independence or its merger with Pakistan since 1989.

A police spokesman said authorities on Monday registered preliminary investigations at two police stations in the city of Srinagar under the anti-terror law, the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Police said the suspects were yet to be identified and officers were using videos of the celebrations on social media in an attempt to name them.

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The anti-terror law was amended in 2019 to allow the government to designate individuals as terrorists. Police can detain people for six months without producing any evidence, and the accused can subsequently be imprisoned for up to seven years. Rights activists have called the law draconian.

Over a dozen Kashmiri students were attacked in Indias northern Punjab state for celebrating Pakistans victory, news reports said.

India describes the armed rebellion in the portion of Kashmir it controls as a Pakistan proxy war and state-sponsored terrorism. Most Muslim Kashmiris consider it a legitimate freedom struggle.

The region is one of the most heavily militarized in the world. Tens of thousands of civilians, rebels and government forces have been killed in the conflict.
(Reuters) - Here's what you need to know about the coronavirus right now:

African Union to buy up to 110 million Moderna vaccines

The African Union intends to buy up to 110 million doses of COVID-19 vaccine from Moderna in an arrangement brokered in part by the White House, which will defer delivery of some doses intended for the United States to facilitate the deal, officials told Reuters.

The doses will be delivered over the coming months, with 15 million arriving before the end of 2021, 35 million in the first quarter of next year and up to 60 million in the second quarter.

U.S. FDA advisers weigh Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine in children

An expert panel will weigh authorization of Pfizer and BioNTech's vaccine for children aged 5 to 11 on Tuesday as it prepares to vote on a recommendation for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

The panel's vote is an important regulatory step in getting the vaccine into the arms of millions of children in the United States where schools are largely open for in-person learning.

President Joe Biden on Monday signed an order imposing new vaccine requirements for most foreign national air travellers and lifting severe travel restrictions on China, India and much of Europe effective Nov. 8, the White House said.

China urges faster testing

China is demanding faster and more accessible COVID-19 testing services in its latest effort to reinforce a zero-tolerance policy against the virus, even when cities have already scrambled to test millions in just a few days amid outbreaks.

Frequent testing, and sometimes mass testing, is standard practice in China's containment of domestically transmitted outbreaks in the past year, but health authorities say testing services remain unsatisfactory in parts of China.

China is facing a new wave of infections involving nearly 200 locally transmitted symptomatic cases in 12 provincial areas since Oct. 17.

Russia's daily COVID deaths hit new record

Russia on Tuesday reported 1,106 COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, the highest figure since the start of the pandemic, amid a surge in new cases that has prompted authorities to reimpose partial lockdown measures.

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Bulgaria reports record number of deaths, infections

Bulgaria reported record numbers of daily coronavirus deaths and infections on Tuesday as a fourth wave is stretching the health system in the European Union's least vaccinated member state.

New infections in the previous 24 hours topped 5,863 while 243 people died of the virus, official data showed. The pandemic has killed 23,316 people in Bulgaria.

Swedish death toll passes 15,000

Sweden has registered 9 new COVID-19 deaths since Friday, pushing the death toll since the start of the pandemic past 15,000, data showed on Tuesday.

The milestone was reached with deaths having started to creep up again after a summer lull in the pandemic, although they remain far below the peak levels seen last winter.

Cuba to welcome tourists

Cuba will open its borders and ease entry requirements next month after vaccinating most of its people with home-grown COVID-19 shots.

As of Nov. 15, Cuba will only require visitors to carry proof of vaccination or a recent PCR to enter the country, replacing what were previously among the strictest protocols in the Caribbean, involving a quarantine period and multiple PCR tests.

(Compiled by Linda Noakes; Editing by Giles Elgood)
Quinton de Dock on Tuesday opted out of South Africa's Twenty20 World Cup match against the West Indies "for personal reasons" as the country's cricket board ordered players to take the knee.

Skipper Temba Bavuma said the wicketkeeper-batsman, a former national captain, had made himself unavailable due to "personal reasons" in their crucial Super 12 match in Dubai.

The decision raised eyebrows as De Kock had previously refused to take part in the anti-racism gesture that has become a regular feature in most sporting events.

"The Cricket South Africa (CSA) Board on Monday evening unanimously agreed to issue a directive requiring all Proteas players to adopt a consistent and united stance against racism by 'taking the knee' prior to the start of their remaining World Cup matches," said a CSA statement.

"Concerns were raised that the different postures taken by team members in support of the BLM (Black Lives Matter) initiative created an unintended perception of disparity or lack of support for the initiative.

"After considering all relevant issues, including the position of the players, the Board felt that it was imperative for the team to be seen taking a united and consistent stand against racism, especially given SA's history."

De Kock refused to take a knee in South Africa's Test series in the West Indies earlier this year.

Eoin Morgan's England took the knee along with the West Indies on day one of the ongoing World Cup and India and Pakistan followed in their key clash on Sunday.

The South Africans playing in Tuesday's game took the knee before the start of the game.

"A commitment to overcoming racism is the glue that should unite, bind and strengthen us," CSA board chairperson Lawson Naidoo said.

"Race should not be manipulated to amplify our weaknesses. Diversity can and should find expression in many facets of our daily lives, but not when it comes to taking a stand against racism."

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The statement further added, "Cricket is the second most watched sport globally and the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, being held in the UAE and Oman, is the ideal platform for the Proteas to highlight the national resolve to heal the divisions of the past."

South Africa assistant coach Enoch Nkwe had resigned in August after apparent disagreements with under-pressure head coach Mark Boucher.

Nkwe's resignation came against a backdrop of widespread criticism of Boucher following revelations made at hearings into racism in South African cricket.

The criticism intensified when black former players alleged they were not made to feel welcome in the national team environment during the period in which Boucher was a prominent member of the team.

Former spin bowler Paul Adams said he was racially abused during fines meetings presided over by Boucher which put the spotlight directly on the current coach.

fk/dj
Calls for the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department to be the subject of a federal investigation were raised Monday by social justice leaders and families that say they are the victims of police misconduct that has spanned decades.

Roughly a dozen people stood in front of Kansas City, Kansas City Hall on Monday afternoon calling for the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department. The rallying cry comes as former Detective Roger Golubski, who is embroiled in controversy over many allegations of corruption, is being investigated by federal authorities.

Ricee Cade, a community organizer with MORE2, a social justice organization, said area activists continue to plead for a deeper investigation of the department that goes beyond Golubski.

Many women have suffered, women have lost their lives, families have been ran out of Wyandotte County, all to protect a member of the police department, Cade said. And that is not how you protect and serve a community.

Rev. Rick Behrens of Grandview Park Presbyterian Church in Kansas City, Kansas, encouraged those in the community to join a petition calling for the investigation. And he said now is time to keep up the pressure.

Part of that pressure comes with us reflecting on the moment, and knowing that this is the time for us to act. So thank you to everyone here today who is active, who has spoken up. Its time for all of us to speak up, Behrens said.

The call comes amid renewed attention aimed at Golubski, a 35-year veteran of the department. Golubski is accused of using his badge to sexually exploit Black sex workers and in some cases coerce false testimony in homicide cases he investigated. In one case, Lamonte McIntyre was exonerated of a double murder he did not commit after he spent 23 years behind bars.

Last week, news was reported of a criminal grand jury investigation into Golubski that has been initiated by federal prosecutors. It was welcomed by many social justice activists and organizers.

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The Kansas City, Kansas Police Department has said responses have been made to subpoenas from the FBI in regard to Golubski since 2019. The department has said its cooperation with federal authorities was not disclosed earlier to prevent interference with the investigation.

Meanwhile, other families say they continue to await justice for loved ones mistreated or cast aside by the criminal justice system.

Among those speaking Monday was Kendra Wright, whose aunt, Rose Calvin, was murdered in 1996. The killing remains unsolved after 15 years, and the family has questioned whether Golubski lied to them during the investigation.

Separately, the family believes their relative John Keith Calvin, convicted of murder in 2002, was wrongfully convicted because of the police departments investigation. Calvin, 54, is currently serving a life sentence in the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Star Cooper, whose mother Dorothy Cooper was killed in 1983, said she is thankful now to see that her voice is being heard after spending years getting nowhere to reinvigorate an investigation of her death. She has long believed there was information about her mothers killing withheld by Golubski and the department. And she hopes to see justice done in her mothers case someday soon.

That will be a blessing for me and my family, Cooper said. Its been a long time coming.
Detectives found three revolvers, spent casings and ammunition  in boxes, loose and in a fanny pack  when they searched the New Mexico film set where actor Alec Baldwin fatally shot a cinematographer last week with a gun he had been told did not contain any live rounds, according to an inventory of the items seized that was released Monday.

The new details emerged four days after Baldwin shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins while rehearsing a scene in which he draws a revolver from his holster and points it at the camera, according to an affidavit used to obtain the warrant to search the set. The inventory, filed in Santa Fe County Magistrate Court, did not specify what kind of ammunition was seized or whether it included regular bullets, blank cartridges or dummies.

Taken together, the guns, ammunition and blood from the scene where the movie Rust was being filmed did not answer the central question of how Hutchins was killed with a gun that was not supposed to contain live ammunition.

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Mike Tristano, a veteran professional armorer based in Los Angeles, said the inventory was vague and gave scant information about the type of guns or bullets found. But he did point to the reference to loose ammunition and spent casings as unusual. Typically, ammunition would be kept in a clearly labeled box, he said. The fact that there is loose ammunition and casings raises questions about the organization of the armory department, he said.

According to an interview with the movies director, Joel Souza, used in an affidavit released Sunday by the Santa Fe County sheriffs department, Baldwin had been sitting in a wooden pew in a set depicting a church, explaining how he would draw the gun, when it suddenly discharged. Souza told a detective that he remembered Hutchins grabbing her midsection and starting to stumble backward before noticing that he was bleeding from his shoulder.

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Reid Russell, a cameraman who was present at the scene, told a detective he remembered Hutchins saying that she couldnt feel her legs.

The details, from Detective Joel Cano, provide a chilling account of the fatal shooting on a production set that had been beset by accidental gun discharges and labor disputes between producers and crew members.

The exact safety protocol that played out before the shooting Thursday remained unclear. Souza said in the affidavit that typically, firearms had been checked by the movies armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, then the first assistant director, Dave Halls, before Halls would hand the weapons to actors. Before the shooting, the affidavit said, Halls had grabbed the revolver from a cart outside the building that had been prepared by Gutierrez-Reed  on which three guns sat  and declared it to be a cold gun, which on a film set usually refers to an unloaded firearm.

Although the inventory did not stipulate what kind of ammunition was recovered, live bullets are generally forbidden on film sets.

Halls, an industry veteran who worked on films including Fargo and The Matrix Reloaded, has been the subject of complaints about safety on previous productions. On Monday, a production company, Rocket Soul Studios, said in a statement that Halls had been fired from the set of a movie, Freedoms Path, in 2019 after a gun unexpectedly discharged, causing a minor injury to a crew member. The statement was reported earlier by CNN.

Halls was removed from set immediately after the prop gun discharged, the statement said. Halls did not immediately respond to a request for comment on that situation.

Souza said the filming of the scene inside the church that day had been interrupted by a lunch break. Neither Souza nor Russell knew whether the revolver had been inspected after the crew returned from the lunch break, according to the affidavit.

The sheriffs office and the Santa Fe district attorneys office are planning to hold a news conference Wednesday to discuss the investigation.

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Students in Loudoun County, Virginia, staged a walkout in protest of recent sexual assault cases at the public school system and to show solidarity with victims of such abuses.

"Students who choose to participate will not be penalized for their participation; however, we do ask that students who participate do so peacefully, without signage, and in accordance with the Students Rights and Responsibilities we all reviewed and signed at the beginning of the year," said Michelle Luttrell, the principal at Loudoun County High School, according to WUSA .

Students at Stone Bridge, Broad Run, Riverside and other schools said they would participate in the walkout on Tuesday. They planned to leave class for 10 minutes in protest.

Organizers asked students and teachers to wear white and make protest signs, WUSA reported.

Approximately 75 students briefly walked out at Broad Run High School. The mass, widespread walkouts across the county did not come to fruition.

The Broad Run walkout came hours ahead of what is expected to be a contentious Loudoun County School Board meeting, Fox News learned.

A judge found a boy guilty on Monday of sexually assaulting a girl in the girls' bathroom last spring at Stone Bridge High School. The boy was reportedly wearing a skirt during the incident.

LOUDOUN COUNTY DAD WHO SAYS DAUGHTER WAS SEXUALLY ASSAULTED IN SCHOOL PURSUES SUIT AGAINST DISTRICT

The girls father, Scott Smith, said he plans to file a lawsuit against the school system over the matter.

Smith gained national attention when he was arrested at a school board meeting on June 22 in a scene that was recorded and spread on social media. He was found guilty of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest in August after his arrest.

"We are relieved that justice was served today for the Smiths daughter. This horrible incident has deeply affected the Smith family, and they are grateful for todays outcome," the law firm representing the family said in a statement after the judge's ruling.

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LOUDOUN EMAIL REVEALS SUPERINTENDENT NOTIFIED SCHOOL BOARD ON DAY OF ALLEGED SEXUAL ASSAULT

A second charge against the boy is still pending. He is also accused of forcing a female classmate into an empty room at Broad Run High School and groping her.

Loudoun County Public Schools Superintendent Scott Ziegler acknowledged on Oct. 15 that current policies are not adequate in addressing sexual assault cases following the incidents.

LOUDOUN COUNTY FATHER ARRESTED AT SCHOOL BOARD EVENT SAYS SCHOOL TRIED TO COVER UP DAUGHTER'S BATHROOM ASSAULT

"I want to acknowledge that our processes and procedures were not adequate to respond to these recent events," Ziegler said. "It has become clear that our administrative procedures have not kept pace with the growth we have seen in our county."

Amy Jahr sings "The Star Spangled Banner" after a Loudoun County School Board meeting was halted by the school board because the crowd refused to quiet down, in Ashburn, Virginia, June 22, 2021. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein

An email from May 28 and revealed this month shows Ziegler telling the school board about the sexual assault allegation that took place in the bathroom at Stone Bridge. At the June school board meeting where Smith was arrested, however, Ziegler declared that "the predator transgender student or person simply does not exist," and that to his knowledge, "we dont have any record of assaults occurring in our restrooms."

YOUNGKIN DEMANDS RESIGNATIONS FROM LOUDOUN COUNTY SCHOOL BOARD IN WAKE OF BOMBSHELL EMAIL

He later apologized for the system not providing a safe environment for students.

"First, let me say to the families and students involved  my heart aches for you and I am sorry that we failed to provide the safe, welcoming, and affirming environment that we aspire to provide," he said .

The email revelation has since sparked calls for Ziegler and the school board to step down, including from Republican gubernatorial candidate Glenn Youngkin.
Scores of students at Loudoun County public high schools walked out of class Tuesday to protest the county school boards handling of a sexual assault that has drawn nationwide attention.

Videos showed large numbers of students outside the entrances of all the major county high schools.

Students outside Broad Run High School were recorded chanting Loudoun County protects rapists. Video from Loudoun County High School showed a much quieter scene, while students at Riverside High School were chanting outside the entrance to the school.



A graphic circulating online before the protest called on students and teachers to walk out of class for 10 minutes to show solidarity to victims of sexual violence and demand safety in our schools.



The student protest came the morning after a juvenile court judge convicted a 15-year-old student of sexually assaulting a ninth-grade girl in the womens restroom of Stone Bridge High School. The student was allegedly wearing a skirt during the assault.

TEENAGER FOUND GUILTY IN LOUDOUN COUNTY BATHROOM ASSAULT

The case gained national attention after it was revealed that Loudoun County school officials knew about the sexual assault but the student, who had already been criminally charged, was allowed to attend a different high school, where he was subsequently accused of assaulting a second victim.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

The father of the first victim, Scott Smith, was arrested following an altercation at a June school board meeting. Smith contends a woman told him she didnt believe his daughter had been sexually assaulted, precipitating the scuffle. He was charged with and found guilty of disorderly conduct and resisting arrest.

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Tags: News, Public Schools, Sexual Assault, Students, Protests

Original Author: Jeremiah Poff

Original Location: Loudoun County students stage walkout over sexual assault handling
Michael Beals has been charged with criminal mischief for defacing the bronze-finished bust of Floyd on Oct. 3 in Union Square Park.

An arrest has been made in connection with the vandalism of a statue of George Floyd in New York City.

Michael Beals, 37, has been charged with criminal mischief in the vandalism incident, which took place on Oct. 3 in the south plaza of Union Square Park, according to NBC New York.

Michael Beals, 37, has been charged with criminal mischief in the vandalism of a statue of George Floyd, which took place on Oct. 3 in Union Square Park, New York City. (Photo: Screenshot/New York City Police Dept.)

In New York, criminal mischief can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony offense. It is unclear if Beals has been charged with a felony. Sentences for the crime can vary from up to or more than a year in prison.

The statue was moved to Union Square Park earlier this summer just over a month after it was unveiled on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn at a Juneteenth celebration. It was also defaced in that borough five days after being installed, marred with black paint and the alleged logo of a white supremacist group. Local residents and members of the Floyd family cleaned the statue, and it was relocated.

The more-recent vandalism of the statue has been condemned by the states leaders, including New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio and New York Governor Kathy Hochul, who declared it an act of cowardice. She directed the states Hate Crimes Task Force to assist in the investigation.

As previously reported, a perpetrator was seen mixing blue paint behind the sculpture before throwing it on the bust of the slain man and riding off on a skateboard.

The Union Square display also features statues of the late civil rights pioneer and Georgia Congressman John Lewis, as well as Breonna Taylor, the Louisville, Kentucky, woman killed by police on March 13, 2020. Neither of those statues has been vandalized.

The statues are 12 feet tall and are made from precision-cut Okoume plywood and finished with bronze. They were commissioned by Confront Art, an organization that pushes for social change.

SEEINJUSTICE is the name of the installation on display in Union Square, which was intended to raise awareness of racism and actions for correction, NBC New York reports.

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Art creates an environment for civil discourse, Chris Carnabuci, the artist who created the three busts, told the local news outlet, We can talk about our differences and maybe even come to some understanding of each others perspectives.

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The post Man arrested for allegedly vandalizing George Floyd statue appeared first on TheGrio.
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin said that his party has a responsibility to raise the debt ceiling by itself should an agreement fail to be made with Republicans.

The West Virginia senator on Tuesday endorsed the idea of Democrats raising the federal debt ceiling through the budget reconciliation process, which allows for the passage of fiscal legislation with only a simple majority, bypassing any filibuster.

He also said that he thinks that the debt ceiling should be raised using the 14th Amendment, which some constitutional scholars argue may authorize the president to continue borrowing money without congressional approval.

The debt limit should be the 14th Amendment. The president has the right to make that decision. We have the right to override if we think he went too far. That to me is the simplest  it takes all of the politicians out of making a deal, Manchin said during an event before the Economic Club of Washington, D.C.

DEBT STANDOFF LEADS DEMOCRATS TO LOOK TO UNCONVENTIONAL $1T COIN IDEA OR NIXING THE LIMIT ALTOGETHER

Manchin lamented the current state of partisan politics and said it is absolutely insane that raising the debt limit is being used as a political weapon. He said that both sides should call a truce and work together on an agreement.

The three-term senator said that if the Republicans cant come to an agreement with his party over raising the debt limit, because they are in the majority, Democrats have the responsibility to raise it through reconciliation.

Thats our responsibility, and I will take that and do it, he said.

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Congress kicked raising the debt ceiling down the road when it voted earlier this month on a short-term fix to extend the nations borrowing limit until early December.

Republicans want Democrats to tie a long-term extension to their partisan infrastructure and social spending package, while Democrats have balked at that notion and are insisting Republicans join with them to raise the borrowing limit. Ten Republicans would have to join all the Senate Democrats in order for a bipartisan extension to pass.

Story continues

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Tags: News, Joe Manchin, Debt Ceiling, National Debt, Congress, Budget

Original Author: Zachary Halaschak

Original Location: Manchin open to raising debt ceiling with only Democratic votes
The Manhattan District Attorney's Office reportedly opened a criminal investigation into Leon Black, a billionaire with connections to the late Jeffrey Epstein, over accusations that he raped and sexually assaulted two former models.

Prosecutors are examining the allegations in a civil lawsuit brought by former Russian model Guzel Ganieva against Black, and they met with her and another former model, sources briefed on the inquiry told Vanity Fair.

Ganieva filed suit in June, claiming Black raped her in 2014. She then amended her lawsuit to include the other woman, identified in court documents as "Jane Doe," who claimed Black raped her in Epsteins town house in 2002.

JUDGE SETS TIMELINE FOR PRINCE ANDREW TO TESTIFY IN EPSTEIN-LINKED SEX ABUSE CASE

We believe in our clients and seek to hold Black accountable, one of the women's lawyers told the outlet.

A spokesperson for Black said his team does not have any knowledge of an investigation on Black. In addition, the spokesperson said the accusations against Black are "completely false" and that the district attorney has been provided with evidence to prove his innocence.

Black, now 70, insisted in January 2021 that his relationship with Epstein was strictly professional, and he added that he was "completely unaware" of Epsteins "abhorrent misconduct."

The former CEO and chairman of Apollo Global Management said he "did not engage in any wrongdoing or inappropriate conduct."

Black abruptly left Apollo a couple of months later following the emergence of his ties with Epstein.

An investigation commissioned by Apollos board disclosed that Black paid Epstein $158 million in fees between 2012 and 2017, which was after Epstein pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from a teenage girl.

Epstein was arrested in July 2019 and charged with sex trafficking and conspiracy for allegedly abusing girls as young as 14. He pleaded not guilty to the charges before he was found dead in his Manhattan prison cell in August of that year. His death was ruled a suicide by the New York City medical examiner's office.

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CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

The Washington Examiner contacted the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, which declined to comment.

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Tags: News, Manhattan, Sexual Abuse Allegations, District Attorney

Original Author: Asher Notheis

Original Location: Manhattan DA investigating Leon Black for sexual assault allegations: Report
Rep. Mo Brooks said while he was not involved in the planning of the Jan. 6 rally at the Capitol, he would be "proud" if it turns out his staff assisted in arranging the "lawful" protest.

Brooks, who has come under scrutiny from lawmakers and journalists after a Sunday report from Rolling Stone accused Brooks of involvement in planning ahead of the Jan. 6 riot, has denied knowledge of staff members allegedly helping with the event. But he maintained he would support them if they exercised their First Amendment rights in orchestrating a legal protest.

"I don't know if my staff did," Brooks told CNN's Melanie Zanona on Monday. "But if they did, I'd be proud of them for helping to put together a rally lawful under the First Amendment at the Ellipse to protest voter fraud and election theft."

GOP MEMBERS LASH OUT AT ROLLING STONE REPORT LINKING THEM TO JAN. 6 PLANNING

Brooks previously denied allegations that he was involved in planning ahead of the Jan. 6 siege, claiming that he did not know of any staff members who may have assisted in planning the rally. The Alabama Republican also denied that he and Rep. Madison Cawthorn spoke with then-President Donald Trump at the "Stop the Steal" rally at the Ellipse outside the White House.

"There was a meeting at the White House about voter fraud and election theft activity," Brooks said. "But I have no recollection of any kind of organizational activity regarding the speeches on Jan. 6."

The Alabama Republican "had no intentions of going to that rally until Jan. 5, when the White House asked me to speak," Brooks told the Birmingham News, adding that Jan. 5 was the "beginning of his involvement."

In March, Rep. Eric Swalwell filed a lawsuit against Brooks, claiming that he and a handful of others bore responsibility for the Capitol Hill siege. Brooks was "finally" served with papers in June after Swalwell encountered difficulty locating the representative for three months.

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CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Brooks has consistently promoted claims about mass voter fraud. In September, Brooks repeatedly claimed the 2020 election was stolen despite officials' assurances that votes were secure.

A representative for Brooks did not immediately respond to the Washington Examiner's request for comment.

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Tags: News, Mo Brooks, January 6, Alabama, Congress, U.S. Capitol Building, Media, Riots, Election Fraud

Original Author: Christopher Hutton

Original Location: Mo Brooks 'proud' if staff helped plan 'lawful' Jan. 6 protest
The Daily Beast

Lucy Nicholson/ReutersThe vast majority of Times Ups remaining staffers were laid off Friday in what they described as a debacle that began with leaders revealing they gave the news to the Washington Post first and ended with board member Ashley Judd breaking down in tears.The embattled organization, limping since its CEO and entire board resigned this summer, announced Friday that it would lay off the vast majority of its remaining staff. Leadership informed staff of the decision in a virtual
THE HAGUE (Reuters) - At least 150 people have been arrested by European and U.S. authorities after a joint crackdown on traders of drugs, weapons and other illicit goods on darknet e-commerce sites, Dutch media reported Tuesday citing police agency Europol.

Cash and cryptocurrency worth 26.7 million euros ($31 million) and 234 kilograms of drugs were also seized, according to Dutch broadcaster KRO-NRCV.

"This operation proves that we can reach (criminals on the dark web) even if they think they are hiding somewhere, they cannot be sure we won't be there at one moment to knock on their door", Europol's deputy executive director of operations, Jean-Philippe Lecouffe told the broadcaster.

Europol would not comment on the report, but referred to a press conference set for 10AM local time (1400 GMT) in Washington with the Department of Justice.

According to the Dutch media 65 U.S. nationals were arrested, along with 47 Germans, 24 Brits and a handful of Dutch, French, Swiss and Bulgarian nationals.

The operation focused on sellers and buyers on the darknet rather than the people running the sites as in earlier crackdowns.

Darknet markets are e-commerce sites designed to lie beyond the reach of regular search engines. They are popular with criminals, as buyers and sellers are largely untraceable.

In January this year, Europol announced it had taken down an online marketplace called "DarkMarket" that sold illegal drugs in an operation led by German law enforcement agencies.

($1 = 0.8593 euros)

(Reporting by Stephanie van den Berg, editing by Bart Meijer and Christina Fincher)
A New Jersey high school teacher was suspended after allegedly mocking a Muslim student in class and calling him a terrorist, officials and the teen's family said.

Mohammed Zubi, a 17-year-old senior at Ridgefield Memorial High School, last week asked a teacher if he could have some more time to complete an assignment, according to his family.

That's when the instructor allegedly quipped, "We don't negotiate with terrorists," said Selaedin Maksut, executive director of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) New Jersey, speaking on behalf of the family.

"It perpetuates the stereotypes against Arabs and Muslims and that, for the past 20 years, this is what organizations like CAIR and others have been trying to combat," Maksut told NBC News on Tuesday.

"You'd like think 20 years later these would be dying down. But here they are, being used by a teacher in a classroom, so it's very alarming to see."

The Ridgefield School District said in a statement that it "has absolutely no tolerance for any sort discrimination against any student or staff member" and strives "to create an inclusive environment where students and staff members race, religion, national origin and sexual orientation are embraced."

The teacher has been suspended while the district investigates and "intends to pursue any and all legal remedies," it added.

A rep for the New Jersey Education Association, the union which represents public school teachers, could not be immediately reached for comment on Tuesday.
Retired New England Patriots safety Patrick Chung appeared in Quincy District Court in Massachusetts on Tuesday, pleading not guilty to one charge of assault and battery of a family member and one charge of vandalism, according to the Boston Globe.

Chung was arrested on Monday, but no details of the alleged crime have been released.

The Globe reported that the domestic violence charge involved the mother of one of his children. She appeared in court Tuesday without a lawyer and asked the judge for a restraining order, which was granted. After Chung pleaded not guilty, the judge released him without bail. However, if the terms of the restraining order are violated, that will convert to an additional criminal charge.

Former Patriots safety Patrick Chung pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to one charge of assault & battery and one charge of vandalism. (Staff Photo By Matt Stone/MediaNews Group/Boston Herald)

On Monday, the day he was arrested, Chung tweeted "Best day of my life."

Chung, 34, played in the NFL for 11 years, spending 10 of them with the Patriots and earning three Super Bowl rings in the process. He opted out of the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic, then announced his retirement in March 2021.

Chung has been in trouble with the law once before. He was indicted by a New Hampshire grand jury in Aug. 2019 on a cocaine possession charge after police discovered evidence at his home while responding to a "call for service." The charges were dismissed in Jan. 2020, but with conditions attached. If he committed a felony or misdemeanor anytime in the next two years, the charges would be reinstated.
The teenage immigrant in Houston who was charged with murder and aggravated assault in a car crash that killed three valet drivers has made bail.

Ahmedal Tayeb Elnouman Modawi, who is originally from Sudan and not a U.S. citizen , was charged with three counts of murder and one count of aggravated assault with serious bodily injury following the Oct. 1 crash, Click 2 Houston reported.

ABANDONED HOUSTON CHILDREN FOUND LIVING WITH SKELETAL REMAINS OF 9-YEAR-OLD BROTHER: POLICE

The 17-year-old made bail this weekend and is required to wear an ankle monitor under house arrest until his next court hearing on Dec. 15. He will be permitted to attend school and church during that time.

Modawis bond was originally set at at $350,000, which included $100,000 for each murder count. A judge later reduced the bond to $220,000 - $60,000 for each murder count, plus $40,000 for the aggravated assault.

HOUSTON AQUARIUM SLAYING WAS LATEST KILLING BY A DEFENDANT OUT ON BOND: REPORTS

Modawi, who also worked as a valet, was reportedly doing doughnuts in a parking lot on the evening of Oct. 1 in a clients car. A police officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but Modawi took off.

The car then hit three valets, 22-year-old Eric Orduna, 23-year-old Nick Rodriguez and 18-year-old Fnan Measho, before flipping and crashing into a fence. The men were declared dead at the scene. Modawi and a passenger in his car also sustained injuries.

Police determined Modawi was not intoxicated during the crash.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  In a rare joint appeal, the leaders of Pakistan and China on Tuesday urged the international community to swiftly send humanitarian and economic aid to Afghanistan, where people are facing food and medicine shortages in the shadow of winter.

A government statement said Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed Afghanistan by phone, saying afterward that people there need international help to alleviate their suffering, prevent instability" and rebuild after the United States withdrew and the Taliban seized power in August.

The latest development came a day after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with the Taliban representatives in Qatar to discuss a range of issues.

Pakistan and China are a longtime allies and along with other countries, they've sent humanitarian aid to Kabul over the past two months.

Pakistan wants the world community to unfreeze Afghanistans assets to enable Kabul use its own money to avert the deepening crisis.

Currently, the Taliban government does not have access to the Afghanistan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve.
Mexico has boomed as a destination for weddings. Thomas Barwick/Getty Images

During the pandemic, Mexico exploded in popularity as a haven for destination weddings.

The country's loose COVID-19 restrictions, natural beauty, and amenities boosted demand for weddings.

However, Mexico is dealing with a shortage of vaccines and faced spiking case numbers in the summer.

With dreamy white sand beaches, turquoise blue water, and above all - lax COVID-19 restrictions - Mexico has become the most coveted country for destination weddings during the pandemic.

"You can't book a wedding in Mexico, even in 2022, unless you want to do a weekday," Alison Laesser-Keck, the owner of Alison Bryan Destinations, told Insider.

While other countries tightened their borders and imposed strict restrictions on gatherings, Mexico's lenient - and widely criticized - response to the pandemic propelled it in popularity as a choice destination for weddings. Travelers can come and go from Mexico without showing a negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination, and in many states there are few rules restricting the size of large gatherings.

"It's where everyone pivoted because they couldn't go to Europe," Laesser-Keck said. "Mexico has exploded in people's minds as an option."

Mexico has also ousted some European and Caribbean countries as a destination for weddings, since European countries are often quicker to place restrictions on large gatherings when COVID-19 cases spike, and some Caribbean countries were slow to come out of lockdowns, Heather Allen, the co-founder of Table 6 Productions, said.

A beachside wedding in Mexico. John and Joseph Photography

"It is the top destination to have a wedding, if you want it to feel like 2019 again," Allen told Insider. "The weddings I have done in Mexico in 2020 and 2021 have felt safe and normal."

However, Mexico isn't free from the virus yet. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention rated Mexico as a high-risk country to travel to in terms of COVID-19, listing the country at "Level 3: High Risk." The country has the fourth-highest COVID-19 death toll in the world, and only 39% of Mexico's population is fully vaccinated against COVID-19

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With vaccination rates falling behind other Latin American countries, the Delta variant raged through popular vacation spots like Cabo San Lucas and Cancun over the summer, where the virus became so severe that hospitals had to add beds and the Hard Rock Hotel in Cancun blocked off two floors for guests with COVID-19 symptoms, Bloomberg reported.

Despite coronavirus outbreaks, the country's natural beauty, non-stop flights from major American cities, and affordable prices continue to propel demand for destination weddings in Mexico, Mindy Weiss, the owner of Mindy Weiss Party Consultants, said.

"Mexico is extremely popular because it offers a resort-feel, friendly people wherever you go, delicious food, and unlike years past, they have everything you need in every city as far as rental furniture, dishware, decor, and more," she told Insider. "And the minute you hear those mariachis, you're ready to celebrate."

Wedding planners also told Insider that the number of luxury venues and hotels has increased to meet the soaring demand.

"Couples have always loved destination weddings in Mexico and now they love it even more," Allen said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  King Abdullah II of Jordan visited Poland on Tuesday for talks with President Andrzej Duda on security issues and further defense cooperation.

The two leaders met at the Presidential Palace in Warsaw.

Jordan is a valued and reliable partner for Poland in the Middle East region, as reflected by the highest-level contacts, Dudas office said on Twitter.

The presidents office said joint projects by Polish and Jordanian special forces were part of the defense discussion and that "Jordan is also a recipient of products of Poland's defense industry.

An agreement on cooperation in culture, science and education was signed during the king's visit.
The pope and the president will meet at the end of this month before the G-20 meeting, and social justice is undoubtedly going to be a topic of discussion.

Pope Francis recently launched a tweetstorm with a myriad of calls to action. But unfortunately, he left out the single biggest item that reduces poverty and closes the income gap in the West: healthy and fruitful marriages.

This is an area where the pope could and should have a lot to say. Indeed, the pope declared 2021 the year of St. Joseph, who has the title of Pillar of Families, so such an argument would seem to fit well.

The understanding of the social benefits of marriage are now so robust that ignoring them should be a source of embarrassment for any policymaker. And yet, it is nearly always left out of these conversations.

Research from the Institute for Family Studies found that 97% of millennials with a high school diploma who got a full-time job and who had a baby only after getting married didnt live in poverty.

The income gap is growing in America largely because of the rapid growth of single-headed households. Single people, particularly single men, earn far less than their married counterparts.

Earlier this month, Pew released research on the numbers of people who are unmarried or live without a romantic partner. The study found that as of 2019, 38% were not living with a romantic partner during their prime working years, as opposed to 29% in 1990. Further, Pew found data that reinforce the Institute for Family Studies research that unmarried adults are less likely to be economically prosperous, have less access to benefits such as health insurance, and are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as binge drinking or drugs, which in turn lead to a lower life expectancy.

Hows that for social injustice? But the data supporting marriage dont end there.

Lets keep in mind that children conceived in married homes are the most likely in our culture to avoid adverse childhood experiences, which means they are the most likely to thrive in school and in life as an adult.

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Women who live in married homes are the safest from any form of violence. Women who live with a man who isnt their husband are the most likely to suffer from domestic violence.

Children conceived in cohabiting homes often become victims of fatherlessness, as 40% lack a father by age 3, and 70% wont have a father in their lives by age 12. This is the personification of social injustice. A child cannot choose his or her home life.

Yet, despite all of this, we continue to pretend the various and ever-changing sexual whims of grown-ups are the most important considerations.

Without a doubt, encouraging marriage as the means of creating a more just society is the core message Francis should advance when he speaks to President Joe Biden. He is best positioned to make this case. Plenty of folks in the media will endlessly repeat the many other ideas Francis laid out in his tweets.

If you still doubt this is relevant to their conversation, consider that Biden leads a nation that annually breaks new records for collapsing birthrates and marriage rates. The number of people getting married annually has dropped 31% since the year 2000 and 61% since the year 1970.

In 2020, the birthrate in the United States hit 1.64 per woman. Across the West, theres a pandemic of fruitlessness: Germanys birth rate sits at 1.54, Italys birthrate is 1.32, and Polands is at 1.44. The Catholic Church has frequently spoken out against euthanasia. How frequent will euthanasia become in a world with too few adult children to love and care for the elderly? How will vast social welfare programs get funded to help the poor when too few workers exist to pay for them?

Yet, many of our Western leaders fixate on Malthusian policy prescriptions to combat climate change. Awards are given to royals who live the example that children are a disease on society. The climate change that needs to occur is entirely around marriage and the family.

My colleague Dr. John Van Epp and I have been studying the issue of marriage for years, and the problem of leaving marriage outside of the conversation of poverty and social justice is a symptom of a much larger problem. Churches and policymakers only give lip service to the institution.

Church leaders universally say they value marriage. Most churchmen would probably agree it is the most important human institution, the core building block of society. Yet, we allocate money to those things we value. And church spending says we dont value marriage. In our recently released book, we cite new research that shows 82% of Catholic parishes and 85% of all churches in the U.S. spend zero dollars annually on marriage and relationship ministry.

Biden and our policymakers need to hear a pro-marriage message from Pope Francis because no one else can give it on the world stage. Western leaders do not need yet another voice speaking about issues that are both wildly popular among our elites and ubiquitous in every form of media. In conversations with Biden, Francis should integrate marriage into any discussion on combating inequality and poverty in America or the West.

J.P. De Gance is co-author of Endgame: The Church's Strategic Move to Save Faith and Family in America.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: Family, Pope Francis, Joe Biden

Original Author: J.P. De Gance

Original Location: The pope and Biden must discuss marriage
A progressive group is using Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) as a test case for a law that's supposed to restrict the use of outside money in shaping the legislative process, Axios has learned.

Why it matters: New complaints against Greene by End Citizens United have broader implications for a new breed of conservative lawmakers whose identity is built around their reputations as provocateurs rather than achievements as legislators.

Stay on top of the latest market trends and economic insights with Axios Markets. Subscribe for free

Rep. Madison Cawthorn (R-N.C.) said he "built my staff around comms rather than legislation" shortly after taking office.

If you arent making news, you arent governing, Rep. Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.) said last year.

Driving the news: ECU has filed complaints with the Federal Election Commission and the Office of Congressional Ethics. They point to a series of ads run by Greene's campaign and her leadership PAC, which encourage supporters to call members of Congress to oppose infrastructure funding legislation.

The Save America Stop Socialism PAC has spent between $15,000 and $20,000 running the ads on Facebook and Instagram, where they've been viewed as many as 4.6 million times, according to Facebook's political ad archive.

ECU says this practice runs afoul of a federal law banning the use of any outside money to conduct official congressional business.

Using her leadership PAC in an attempt to get around federal law and regulations is both unethical and illegal," the group said in a statement.

What they're saying: This is a frivolous complaint from a partisan political organization masquerading as some kind of watchdog group, Greenes office told Axios.

This is just another tactic straight out of the Democrats communist playbook.

How we got here: Greene was stripped of her committee assignments a month after taking office, after being condemned for past endorsements of conspiracy theories and violent rhetoric against Democrats.

That's neutered her ability to shape legislation. None of the 15 bills she's sponsored this year has made it out of committee.

Nonetheless, she's attracted media attention and raised massive sums for her political operation with red-meat appeals to far-right supporters.

She's used taxpayer funds to send out mail pieces calling for President Biden's impeachment. While not overtly political, the messaging tracks with paid ads run by Greene's campaign.

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White House press secretary Jen Psaki will no longer comment on the tightening Virginia governor's race after a bipartisan watchdog group filed an ethics complaint accusing her of violating the Hatch Act.

"I've learned my lesson. I'm not going to do any politics from here or political analysis," she told reporters at Tuesday's White House press briefing when asked if President Joe Biden is "surprised" by how close the race is. "I can confirm that the president is going to Arlington later this evening and that that is my hometown as well, and, of course, the vice president as well. But beyond the scheduling details, I will leave political analysis to my friends over at the DNC."

MCCAULIFFE, YOUNGKIN VIRTUALLY TIED IN VIRGINIA GOVERNOR'S RACE

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington filed a complaint against Psaki on Oct. 15 after she said in a press briefing that the White House is "going to do everything we can to help former Gov. McAuliffe, and we believe in the agenda hes representing."

"The last administration systematically co-opted the government for the presidents reelection. While this conduct does not come close to rising to the level of the outrageous offenses of the Trump administration, that does not mean we should be casual about compliance with an important ethics law," CREW President Noah Bookbinder said of the Hatch Act violation. "The Biden administration should not follow the Trump administration down that path."

He added that "after the ethics disaster of the Trump administration, there is extra pressure on the Biden administration to be above board."

"It is important to have a concerted effort to comply with important laws, rather than to give repeated passes, in order to restore the American peoples faith in government," Bookbinder said. "We hope the Biden administration will give renewed attention to staying on the right side of this law."

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"Trump press officials showed a disdain for the Hatch Act, making a mockery of it while they were in office. CREW filed Hatch Act complaints against many of them, including press secretaries Kayleigh McEnany and Sarah Huckabee Sanders and deputies Raj Shah and Hogan Gidley," CREW added in a statement. "Psakis apparent violation is nowhere near as extreme as those of her predecessors. In her Oct. 14 press conference, she first tried to frame her answer on the right side of the line before eventually crossing it. While it is unquestionably a good thing that she was aware of the law, and not completely disregarding it like the Trump administration often did, she still took a step too far."

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE FROM THE WASHINGTON EXAMINER

Biden will campaign for McAuliffe in Arlington, Virginia, on Tuesday evening, and Vice President Kamala Harris will join the former governor at another campaign stop on Friday. McCauliffe and Republican candidate Glenn Youngkin are effectively tied heading into the final week of the campaign.

Washington Examiner Videos

Tags: News, Jen Psaki, Terry McAuliffe, Virginia, White House, Joe Biden, Campaigns, Ethics, CREW

Original Author: Christian Datoc

Original Location: Psaki spooked by Hatch Act, will no longer comment on Virginia governor's race
Photo credit: Mark Cuthbert - Getty Images

After cancelling an overseas visit to Northern Ireland due to medical reasons, Buckingham Palace revealed that the Queen also spent the night in King Edward VII's Hospital where she underwent tests.

A statement was retrospectively shared detailing her hospital trip and added that Her Majesty was in "good spirits" and back home at Windsor Castle. Reports then followed speculating that she would scale back her diary commitments, in order to focus more on rest and recovery.

The statement, shared with the press last Thursday, reads in full: "Following medical advice to rest for a few days, the Queen attended hospital on Wednesday afternoon for some preliminary investigations, returning to Windsor Castle at lunchtime today, and remains in good spirits."

Now, the Queen has been pictured back at work for the first time, looking happy and alert whilst wearing a resplendent pale yellow outfit, as she conducted two virtual Audiences from Windsor Castle.

Tweeting about Her Majesty's return to work, royal correspondent Omid Scobie said, "She held video calls with the new Ambassador from the Republic of Korea (Gunn Kim and his wife Hee Jung Lee) and the Ambassador of Switzerland (Markus Leitner and his wife)."

The Royal Family's official Twitter account also tweeted saying, "Today The Queen received two Ambassadors in audience via video link from Windsor Castle.

"There are more than 170 Ambassadors and High Commissioners based in London at any given time and each will have an Audience with The Queen shortly after taking up his or her role."

 Today The Queen received two Ambassadors in audience via video link from Windsor Castle.



 There are more than 170 Ambassadors and High Commissioners based in London at any given time and each will have an Audience with The Queen shortly after taking up his or her role. pic.twitter.com/Pf9NiUFGca  The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) October 26, 2021

A follow-up tweet added, "Mr. Gunn Kim from the Republic of Korea and Mr. Markus Leitner from the Swiss Confederation each presented their Credentials  a formal letter from their Head of State confirming that Her Majesty can trust them to speak on behalf of their country."

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Mr. Gunn Kim from the Republic of Korea and Mr. Markus Leitner from the Swiss Confederation each presented their Credentials - a formal letter from their Head of State confirming that Her Majesty can trust them to speak on behalf of their country. pic.twitter.com/MhnbwNb4fD  The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) October 26, 2021

It was not made clear as to why Her Majesty held the audiences virtually as opposed to in person, but it might be assumed that this could be part of the Queen's compromise when it comes to scaling back her official engagements moving forward.

The same images were also shared on the Royal Family's Instagram account and fans of the monarch were quick to share their well wishes in the comment section, along with remarking on how nice it is to see her back in business.

"Good to see Her Majesty back to work ," wrote one social media user. Another added, "Long live the Queen! Get well soon!"

A third wrote, "A most wonderful sight to see her Majesty in good health"

We're wishing the Queen a full and speedy recovery.

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People demonstrate at an emergency meeting of the Brevard County, Florida School Board on Monday to discuss whether face masks in local schools should be mandatory. Paul Hennessy/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

Three state school board associations have left the national organization in the past week.

The states cited anger over the national organization's request to Biden for federal assistance.

Board meetings have become battlegrounds across the United States in recent months, with angry parents threatening members and protesting.

Three state school board associations have left the national organization in the past week as culture war drama at school districts boils over, according to multiple reports.

Missouri, Ohio, and Pennsylvania's governing school boards all withdrew from the National School Boards Association (NSBA), citing anger over a recent request for White House intervention following a trend of unruly school board meetings that have devolved into threats and - in some cases - violence.

Missouri

In Missouri, the school board association said that the national board's principles don't align with that of the Missouri School Board Association, local news station KMIZ reported on Monday, and that there isn't a need for federal assistance.

"We also believe that no school board member or educator should ever have to endure threats of violence or acts of intimidation against themselves or their families for making these difficult decisions," MSBA officials said in a statement, according to the report.

"Attempting to address that issue with federal intervention should not be the first step in most cases, and is antithetical to our long-standing tradition of local control," the school board association added.

Ohio

Ohio's school boards association (OSBA) said in a letter to the NSBA on Monday that it was cutting ties with the national organization specifically because of the letter to the White House requesting intervention, which suggested threats of violence could be investigated as "a form of domestic terrorism."

"OSBA believes strongly in the value of parental and community discussion at school board meetings, and we reject the labeling of parents as domestic terrorists," wrote OSBA President Robert Heard and Chief Executive Officer Richard Lewis.

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The OSBA letter claimed that the national organization is out of touch with local associations, and that school board issues should be dealt with at a local level.

Pennsylvania

Meanwhile, Pennsylvania's school boards association voted last week to withdraw from the national organization for similar reasons, local news station WESA reported.

"Attempting to solve the problems with a call for federal intervention is not the place to begin, nor a model for promoting greater civility and respect for the democratic process," PSBA said in a statement, according to the report.

School board meetings are a mess

School board meetings across the country have grown increasingly heated over the last few months as parents and community members wage war over proposed mask mandates and the supposed teaching of "critical race theory" in class.

Students have been heckled and booed, school board members have been threatened and harassed, and parents have been physically attacked.

The NSBA said in its letter to the Biden administration at the end of September that the country's schools and education leaders are under an "immediate threat."

In the letter, the NSBA asked the federal government for "law enforcement and assistance" from agencies like the Department of Justice and Department of Homeland security to manage "the growing number of threats of violence and acts of intimidation occurring across the nation," the body's president, Viola M. Garcia, and interim executive director, Chip Slaven wrote.

The NSBA did not immediately respond to a request from Insider for comment.

Read the original article on Insider
Magnolia West High School

A judge in Texas has temporarily blocked a school districts policy that mandates short hair for boys but not girls.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, the ACLU Womens Rights Project, and the law firms of Ahmad, Zavitsanos, Anaipakos, Alavi, & Mensing PC and Susman Godfrey LLP had filed suit against the Magnolia Independent School District, near Houston, on behalf of seven students who had been harmed by the policy.

The school district has severely punished students and, in some cases, forced them out of school altogether, because of their gender and the fact that they wear long hair, notes a press release from the ACLU of Texas.

The suit was filed Thursday in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Then Tuesday, Chief Judge Lee H. Rosenthal signed a temporary restraining order barring the school district from enforcing the policy against four students who had been disciplined for violating it, including being kicked out of their regular in-person classes. The three other students in the suit had cut their hair and avoided discipline, so the order does not apply to them, but they are free to seek a restraining order if or when their hair length exceeds the School Districts policy and they face disciplinary consequences because of their hair length, she wrote.

The order remains in effect until the conclusion of a hearing on the ACLUs request for a preliminary injunction, which would block the policy for a longer time. That hearing is set for November 10.

Students and parents in Magnolia ISD can breathe a sigh of relief that the districts harmful and discriminatory hair policy will stop being enforced against them, ACLU of Texas attorney Brian Klosterboer said in a news release. Our plaintiffs can now return to school as this unjust policy is paused by the court. The district should never have violated these students constitutional rights in the first place or forced them to conform to gender stereotypes. Magnolia ISD still has a chance to scrap this policy and treat students equally. We hope that other districts in Texas with outdated policies will swiftly fix them and not follow in Magnolias footsteps of unconstitutionally punishing students based solely on gender and gender stereotypes.

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Danielle Miller, mother of a nonbinary fifth-grader, identified as T.M. in the suit, also expressed relief that her child will be at least temporarily protected from punishment over their hair length. Im thrilled that my child and so many other students at Magnolia will be able to attend classes, at least for now, without fear of punishment for how they express themselves, she said in the ACLU release. No student should be discriminated against based on their gender. Im inspired by how our local community has risen up to fight for the rights of our kids. Still, its frustrating that Magnolia refuses to simply change this outdated policy. I hope todays ruling is a sign that change will finally come to the school district.

The Texas ACLU had asked Magnolia ISD several times to voluntarily change the policy, the most recent request being in a letter sent to the district in August, also signed by Lambda Legal and Equality Texas. The policy was not enforced vigorously during the 2020-2021 school year, as dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic was a higher priority for the district, but it has stepped up enforcement this fall.

The students represented by the ACLU have a good chance of succeeding in their suit when it receives a full hearing, Rosenthal wrote in granting the restraining order. The court finds that the plaintiffs established a substantial likelihood of success in showing that the Magnolia Independent School Districts gender-based policy on hair length violates the plaintiffs rights under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, she wrote. Title IX bans gender discrimination in educational programs that receive federal funding, which almost every school in the U.S. does.
The Senate Commerce Committee just wrapped up another three-hour hearing about social medias effect on children and teens. But the latest hearing was different from previous ones in an important way: it featured representatives from TikTok, Youtube and Snap.

Though the three apps are some of the most popular apps among teens and younger users, all three have gotten less attention from lawmakers than Facebook and even Twitter. It was the first time TikTok and Snap had appeared at such a hearing. All three companies tried to head off criticism by drawing distinctions between their platforms and Facebook, which has recently drawn comparisons to tobacco companies. And each company promised new features to ramp up parental controls and other child protections on their service.

YouTube VP Leslie Miller said the company was working on a new feature that would allow parents to choose a locked default autoplay setting in the YouTube Kids app, in addition to other new parental controls. She didnt provide further detail, but said it would launch in the coming months.

Snap also said it was working on new features for parents, with Jennifer Stout, the companys VP of Global Public Policy, saying the features would be rolling out very soon. She said the update would allow parents to view information about how their children are using Snapchat, such as who they spend the most time chatting with and what their privacy and location settings are.

TikTok said it would add additional controls to allow parents and children to better customize their feeds, but was light on specifics. We're investing in new ways for our community to enjoy content based on age appropriateness or family comfort, said Michael Beckerman, the companys VP of Public Policy, We're developing more features that empower people to shape and customize their experience in the app.

But the senators of the Commerce Committee seemed unimpressed by these promises. Throughout the hearing, they pushed the companies on issues like algorithmically-boosted content about eating disorders and self harm on YouTube and TikTok. Snaps Stout was pushed on what the company is doing to stop drug dealers on its platform.

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Several Republican senators also pushed Beckerman on TikToks ties to Chinese parent company ByteDance, and how it handles US user data. In one particularly memorable exchange, Senator Ted Cruz said Beckerman was dodging questions about TikToks affiliation with a company called Beijing ByteDance Technology, which reportedly has links to the Chinese government. Beckerman also deflected questions about what data TikTok collects by saying Facebook and Instagram collect more data about users than TikTok does.

Though Facebook wasnt officially part of the hearing, disclosures from whistleblower Frances Haugen were referenced several times. Senator Richard Blumenthal, who at a previous hearing said Facebook and other companies were facing a big tobacco moment, said that tech is not irredeemably bad like big tobacco.

But he said that the companies need to do much more than prove they are different from Facebook. I understand from your testimony that your defense is were not Facebook, he said. Being different from Facebook is not a defense. That bar is in the gutter. It's not a defense to say that you are different.
Passengers arriving from Amsterdam get their bags at Changi Airport in Singapore on 20 October 2021. (Photo by Roslan RAHMAN / AFP) (Photo by ROSLAN RAHMAN/AFP via Getty Images)

SINGAPORE  From 8 November, fully vaccinated travellers from Australia and Switzerland, including children aged 12 and below, may enter Singapore without quarantine as part of the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) scheme.

As the latest VTLs commence, the current VTL quota will also increase from the existing 3,000 to 4,000 travellers daily. Under the VTL, travellers from designated countries may enter Singapore without quarantine and with Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing, provided they meet certain conditions.

"It's important that we persevere with efforts to reopen our borders with essential public health safeguards in place, so as to remain an international aviation and business hub, with global connectivity," said Transport Minister S Iswaran at a virtual media briefing on Tuesday (26 October).

While the launch of VTLs has been informed by public heath assessments, Iswaran stressed that the situation remains dynamic. "It is important that whatever changes we make, the system (must be) adaptable to the circumstances as the risk assessment evolves...whether it is easing up on the requirements or, if necessary, also tightening up."

Both Australia and Switzerland have been classified by the Ministry of Health (MOH) as Category II, meaning that they have similar or lower COVID incidence rates than Singapore and the other VTL countries.

Switzerland has already opened to its borders to all travellers from Singapore. For entry into Australia, travellers are advised to check the entry requirements of the respective countries.

VTL scheme

The two countries are the 12th and 13th in the VTL scheme, which Iswaran noted still amounts to only "a fraction" of the countries that Changi Airport was connected to pre-COVID.

Earlier this month, Singapore extended the VTL scheme to eight additional countries: Canada, Denmark, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States.

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A VTL was also launched on 8 September for Brunei Darussalam and Germany, while mutual VTLs between Singapore and South Korea will commence from 15 November.

Since the start of the scheme on 8 September, more than 5,100 Vaccinated Travel Pass (VTP) holders have arrived, and there have been five confirmed imported cases of COVID-19. Some 15,000 VTPs have been issued thus far.

Asked to assess the effectiveness of VTLs in reinvigorating the economy, Iswaran said that beyond the number of applications for VTPs, the key factor was restoring confidence in the safety of air travel. "I would say the fact that we've actually already been able to facilitate this volume of travel is a positive sign. To me, the measure of progress is really in building on that, step by step, but with confidence that we're able to do this safely."

The tourism and travel industry, added the minister, understands and accepts that it is more important to do this "well and safe" rather than fast.

Families can reunite

"The VTL will allow the more than 50,000 Singaporeans living in Australia, and the Australian community in Singapore of more than 25,000, to reconnect with their loved ones after nearly two years of physical separation," said Iswaran.

With the forthcoming VTL, fully vaccinated Australian citizens, permanent residents and their immediate families will be able to enter Singapore. Student and business pass holders from Singapore are also expected to be able to enter Australia once it has finalised the arrangements for their entry.

Pre-COVID, Australia was amongst Singapore's top 10 markets for annual passenger arrivals at Changi Airport. But Australia's international borders have been closed to non-citizens and non-residents since March 2020.

It had also imposed a ban on its own citizens and residents from traveling overseas. Thus far, the only country Australia has reopened to is New Zealand.

"What we would want to do is make sure these initial arrangements work well, so that both sides have the confidence to be able to do more, and facilitate travel for a wider group of travellers," said the minister.

'Careful steps'

On Monday, MOH reported that the current overall intensive care unit (ICU) utilisation rate is at 83.6 per cent. Given this, Yahoo News Singapore asked if it was prudent to continue extending the VTL scheme and to increase the VTL quota. Had the government considered public sentiments in this regard?

In response, Iswaran alluded to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's remarks that the country must learn to live with COVID. "What we're doing is really taking these very careful steps in terms of how we open up," he said, pointing to the requirements for inbound travellers such as vaccination and PCR tests, and noting the low number of imported cases since the VTL scheme began.

He pointed out that many in Singapore have families in the VTL countries that they wish to reconnect with, while there are also many Singaporeans there who wish to come back. "I think ultimately it's also what can make a difference in terms of the lives and livelihoods of Singaporeans."

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JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - A South African judge on Tuesday dismissed an application by former president Jacob Zuma to have the prosecutor in his arms deal corruption trial removed.

Zuma, ousted by the governing African National Congress in 2018, had argued that the prosecutor was biased against him and submitted a "special plea" to the Pietermaritzburg High Court to have him replaced.

The former president, 79, pleaded not guilty to charges of corruption, money laundering and racketeering in the long-running case over the 1990s deal for military equipment.

"The special plea is dismissed," Judge Piet Koen said. "It is obviously in the interests of all the parties - the accused, the state representing the general public - that this matter be resolved as soon as is reasonably possible. It has been hanging around too long."

Zuma was briefly jailed earlier this year for contempt of court for refusing to appear at a separate corruption inquiry, but he was granted medical parole after being hospitalised for an undisclosed condition.

Zuma, whose decade in power was marred by scandals, was at the Pietermaritzburg court to hear whether his application would be granted. Dressed in a dark suit and red tie, he was silent as Koen read out his judgment. Lawyers for the accused and the state retired to discuss when the case could proceed to trial.

(Reporting by Alexander Winning; Editing by Giles Elgood)
Kai Widdrington and AJ Odudu will bring the chemistry. (BBC)

Strictly Come Dancing has revealed the full song and dance list for its Halloween spooktacular, promising some scarily good performances.

The line-up features Judi Love and Graziano Di Prima, suggesting that they are expected back this week after having to miss a show when Love contracted COVID.

Read more: Judi Love says Strictly fitness is helping her recover from COVID

Love and Di Prima are set to dance a Cha Cha Cha to Olivia Newton-John's Physical, as will Tilly Ramsay and Nikita Kuzmin to Spooky Movies by Gary Paxton.

Judi Love and Graziano Di Prima are expected to make their return. (BBC)

Scoreboard leaders John Whaite and Johannes Radebe are bidding for glory this week with a Quickstep to Creedence Clearwater Revival's Bad Moon Rising.

Meanwhile Rhys Stephenson and Nancy Xu will be hoping to fight their way back from last week's dance off into their usual place near the top with a Paso Doble to Jeff Wayne's The Eve of the War.

Last weekend, viewers thought the chemistry between AJ Odudu and Kai Widdrington might have spilled over into real life and this time they will dance a romantic Viennese Waltz to Dangerous Woman by Ariana Grande.

Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice take on the Tango. (BBC/Ray Burmiston)

Another fan favourite couple, Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice, are performing a Tango to Shivers by Ed Sheeran and will be joined in the dance style by Tom Fletcher and Amy Dowden, who will perform to AC/DC's Highway to Hell.

High scorers Sara Davies and Aljaz Skorjanec are taking on the Couple's Choice this week to Queen of the Night by Whitney Houston.

Adam Peaty will be casting his tight Latin trousers aside as he and Katya Jones turn to ballroom for a Viennese Waltz to Moonlight Sonata by Ludwig Van Beethoven.

Adam Peaty's Latin trousers are back in the wardrobe this week. (BBC/Kieron McCarron)

Completing the cast, it looks like Dan Walker and Nadiya Bychkova will be providing another fun number with a Jive to Rock Lobster by the B-52's.

Read more: Has Oti Mabuse danced on Strictly for the last time?

Last week saw Ugo Monye and Oti Mabuse voted out in the dance off, ending pro Mabuse's winning streak as the series champion in 2020 and 2019.

She won with Bill Bailey last year and Kelvin Fletcher the year before, but will be handing over the Glitterball Trophy to one of her co-stars this year.

Watch: Strictly pro Kai Widdrington caught telling AJ Odudu 'I love you'
BERLIN (Reuters) -Switzerland said on Tuesday it was recommending COVID-19 booster shots for people over 65 but not for the general population.

The vaccinations would start from mid-November and should be done at least six months after the patients received their second dose, Switzerland's health ministry and vaccination commission (EKIF) said in a statement.

The recommendation is based on the Swiss medicine regulator's decision to approve booster vaccinations with mRNA vaccines from Pfizer/Biontech and Moderna for high-risk patients, the ministry and EKIF said.

For the general population, it is currently not possible and not recommended to get a third vaccination dose based on currently available data, authorities said.

They added Switzerland had enough vaccines to offer shots to all patients eligible for booster vaccinations and to all those who have not yet been vaccinated over 2021-2022.

(Reporting by Zuzanna SzymanskaEditing by Riham Alkousaa and Nick Macfie)
A New Jersey teacher accused of telling an Arab American and Muslim student "we don't negotiate with terrorists" in response to a request for a homework extension has been suspended, district officials said.

The incident reportedly occurred on Wednesday morning during first period at Ridgefield Memorial High School in Ridgefield, New Jersey, where the student, Mohammed Zubi, is a senior, according to a statement by the New Jersey chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. Zubi told CAIR-NJ he had asked for more time on his homework in math class when the teacher made the statement.

The entire class, including another teacher, saw the incident, the statement said. Zubi told CAIR-NJ that the teacher later approached him, saying, "I didn't mean it like that."

The Ridgefield school district released a statement saying it has "absolutely no tolerance for any sort of discrimination against any student or staff member."

'Breaking stereotypes': How 9/11 shaped a generation of Muslim Americans

Woman arrested on flight to Detroit: Accused of 'anti-Muslim rhetoric,' harassment and assault

"The district strives to create an inclusive environment where students and staff members race, religion, national origin and sexual orientation are embraced," the statement continued. "While the district cannot legally comment on personnel or student matters, the public should be aware that the district immediately suspended the staff member while it is conducting a full investigation."

School officials said they intend "to pursue any and all legal remedies against the staff member as any discriminatory conduct has absolutely no place in our district."

District officials said in the statement that they notified police about the incident. Ridgefield police did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

CAIR-NJ said it welcomed the police investigation and is asking Ridgefield Memorial High School to take "appropriate corrective measures."

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We are very concerned about these allegations and urge the school district to take appropriate corrective measures following a swift and transparent investigation," CAIR-NJ Executive Director Selaedin Maksut said in a statement. "This type of insensitive language by an authority figure is unacceptable because it perpetuates stereotypes of Arabs and Muslims.

Maksut said CAIR-NJ is offering the Ridgefield school district diversity training for its teachers and staff to help combat Islamophobia and bullying.

This is not the first incident this month in which police are investigating an incident between a teacher and a Muslim student.

Maplewood, New Jersey police are looking into allegations that a teacher "forcibly" removed the hijab of a second-grade student, the South Orange-Maplewood School district said.

The teacher, Tamar Herman, called the incident a misunderstanding in a statement sent to The Record and NorthJersey.com through her attorney.

"Last week, I asked one of my students to raise the hood of her sweatshirt because it was covering her eyes," said Herman, a teacher at Seth Boyden Elementary School in Maplewood. "With her mask on, too, her whole face was covered. I gently got her attention by brushing up the front of her hood. The moment I realized she was not wearing her usual hijab underneath, she kept the hood on. And the learning went on."

Robert Tarver, an attorney representing the family of the second-grader, said at least one other student witnessed the teacher pulling the hijab, which he said the student wears every day.

"In light of the denial by the teacher, I want to make it clear that we have obtained independent verification that completely supports the assertion of the student," Tarver said.

Staff Writer Hannan Adely contributed to this story.

Kristie Cattafi is a local reporter for NorthJersey.com.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: New Jersey teacher suspended for 'terrorist' comment to Muslim student
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) does not plan on stalling the confirmation of President Biden's ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, as he has done with dozens of other State Department nominees, according to a source familiar with the decision.

Why it matters: Burns, a former career diplomat widely viewed as one of Biden's most qualified nominees, will be tasked with managing the president's defining foreign-policy challenge: preventing "intense competition" with China from spiraling into outright conflict.

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Cruz's decision not to delay Burns' confirmation, which was first reported by Bloomberg, reflects the bipartisan consensus that the threat posed by an increasingly assertive Chinese government is too important to ignore.

The U.S. has not had a Senate-confirmed ambassador to China in more than a year.

The big picture: Cruz launched his campaign to stall every State Department nominees after Biden waived sanctions on Nord Stream 2, a Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline that the administration itself has called a "Kremlin geopolitical project."

Democrats and members of the Biden administration have been intensely critical of Cruz, arguing that his tactics are hurting U.S. national security interests.

Biden is far behind his predecessors when it comes to the rate at which his ambassadorial nominees have been confirmed.

Worth noting: A spokesperson for Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who has vowed to block Biden's national security nominees over the administration's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, told Axios that the senator has not made a decision on Burns' confirmation.

"Senator Hawley has said he will hold leadership positions in the State Department and the Defense Department. He does not have a blanket hold on ambassadors. He is still reviewing Nicholas Burns nomination," the spokesperson said.

Go deeper: Highlights from Burns' Senate testimony on China

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By Liz Hampton

(Reuters) -With oil and gas prices at multi-year highs, U.S. shale producers are poised to deliver the strongest earnings since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, so long as they didn't lock in sales tied to much lower prices.

Sky-high oil and gas prices will fill energy companies' bottom line, rewarding investors who hung on through the pandemic. U.S. crude averaged roughly $71 a barrel, almost 80% higher than year-ago levels, and natural gas sold for over $5 per million British Thermal Units (mmBTU), a price not seen since 2014.

The biggest oil and gas producers kick off results this week, with reports from EQT Corp and Hess Corp. Continental Resources, Pioneer Natural Resources and EOG Resources will report the week after.

Pioneer's earnings per share could hit $3.94, up from 17 cents last year, and Continental earnings are estimated at $1.20, versus a loss of 16 cents a share the same period last year, according to Refinitiv IBES.

While commodity prices are an earnings elixir, some companies face charges to earnings from wrong-way bets due to hedges, or selling future output at prices below the market average.

EQT Corp, which hedged heavily, is anticipated to report a 5 cents per share loss, from a 15 cents per share loss in the third quarter of 2020. Pioneer Natural Resources on Monday warned it would report hedging losses of $501 million for the quarter, and over $2 billion in losses so far this year.

"The only thing that is going to be preventing a blowout quarter is the hedging situation," said Chris Duncan, an equity research analyst at Brandes Investment Partners, adding that some 50% of production volumes were hedged for the quarter.

Energy tech firm Enverus anticipates some $6 billion in aggregate pre-tax losses from third quarter commodity hedges among the 64 North American oil and gas producers it tracks. Those firms lost some $10.5 billion from derivatives in the first half of the year, according to Enverus data.

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Enverus anticipates oil and gas producers to report free cash flow of $11.9 billion for the quarter, with loss-making hedge books reducing that value by 32%.

(Click here graphics.reuters.com/USA-OIL/OIL/jnpwewkjrpw for an earnings chart.)

Shale producer EOG Resources recently warned it would report a loss of $494 million on its hedges. EQT Corp earlier this year said it hedged 80% of this year's output at below $3 per million British thermal units, well below market prices. Apache parent APA Corp said it anticipated $37 million in losses.

"Overly hedging as some of these producers have done impairs their ability to be competitive in a rising price environment," said Josh Young, chief investment officer at energy investor Bison Interests.

Continental Resources, which limits its hedging, last quarter increased its dividend and resumed a $1 billion share repurchase program.

A spokesperson declined to comment.

While shareholders may lament missing out higher prices, hedges can help keep companies on secure financial footing, locking in prices to pay for drilling expenses.

"Credit investors we have spoken with lately are concerned that issuers may unwind their hedges," said John Kempf of credit firm Fitch Ratings. "Creditors do not want to assume price risk."

(Reporting by Liz Hampton in Denver; Editing by Lincoln Feast.)
By Diane Bartz and Sheila Dang

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -An executive at TikTok faced tough questions on Tuesday during the video-sharing app's first appearance at a U.S. congressional hearing, saying it does not give information to the Chinese government and has sought to safeguard U.S. data.

Senators at the hearing also voiced concerns that TikTok, owned by Beijing-based internet technology company ByteDance, and rivals YouTube, owned by Alphabet Inc , and Snapchat have algorithms that can be harmful to young people.

Michael Beckerman, TikTok's head of public policy for the Americas, became the company's first executive to appear before Congress, testifying to a subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee. Republicans in particular pressed Beckerman on worries regarding TikTok's stewardship of data on the app's users.

Senator Marsha Blackburn, the panel's top Republican, said she is concerned about TikTok's data collection, including audio and a user's location, and the potential for the Chinese government to gain access to the information. Blackburn questioned Beckerman on whether TikTok could resist giving data to China's government if material were to be demanded.

"We do not share information with the Chinese government," Beckerman responded.

Under questioning by Republican Senator Ted Cruz, Beckerman said that TikTok has "no affiliation" with Beijing ByteDance Technology, a ByteDance entity at which the Chinese government took a stake and a board seat https://www.reuters.com/world/china/beijing-owns-stakes-bytedance-weibo-domestic-entities-records-show-2021-08-17 this year.

Beckerman also testified that TikTok's U.S. user data is stored in the United States, with backups in Singapore.

"We have a world-renowned U.S. based security team that handles access," Beckerman said.

Republican Senator John Thune said TikTok is perhaps more driven by content algorithms than even Facebook, as the app is famous for quickly learning what users find interesting and offering them those types of videos.

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Beckerman said TikTok would be willing to provide the app's algorithm moderation policies in order for the Senate panel to have it reviewed by independent experts.

Executives from YouTube and Snapchat also testified. In a show of bipartisanship, senators of both parties, including Democratic panel chairman Richard Blumenthal, accused the three companies of exposing young people to bullying and sometimes steering them to information that encouraged harmful behaviors such sexualized games or anorexia.

The executives responded that their companies have sought to create a fun experience and to exclude dangerous or unsavory content.

Republican former President Donald Trump had sought to bar TikTok - a popular platform used by millions of Americans to post short videos - from U.S. app stores, saying it collected data from American users that could be obtained by China's government and posed a threat to U.S. national security.

Democratic President Joe Biden later revoked Trump's plan https://www.reuters.com/technology/us-withdrawing-trump-executive-orders-that-sought-ban-tiktok-wechat-2021-06-09, but sought a broader review of various foreign-controlled apps.

(Reporting by Diane Bartz and Sheila Dang; Editing by Will Dunham)
FBI

Warning: This story contains descriptions of sexual assault.

A U.S. Embassy staffer accused of drugging and sexually assaulting at least 24 women over a 14-year period was in fact a longtime CIA employee, the FBI announced Monday, as the bureau urged any possible victims to come forward in the case.

Serial molester Brian Jeffrey Raymond, 45, was arrested Oct. 9, 2020, in La Mesa, California, where he had been staying with his parents after abruptly quitting his job at the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. He pleaded guilty this past July to two counts of sexual abuse and one count of transporting obscene material, and will be required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life upon his eventual release from prison.

U.S. Embassy Staffer Drugged & Molested Unconscious Women on Video, Feds Say

FBI spokeswoman Samantha Shero confirmed to The Daily Beast that Raymond was working for the CIA during his embassy posting in Mexico. She declined to provide further details about his exact position with the spy agency. A CIA spokesperson told The Daily Beast in an emailed statement, CIA condemns in the strongest terms the crimes committed by former Agency officer Brian Jeffrey Raymond. A source familiar with the case said the CIA took administrative action after Raymonds arrest, and that he resigned from his position soon after.

As The Daily Beast previously reported, the investigation into the veteran CIA man began after a passerby spotted a naked, hysterical woman desperately screaming for help on the terrace of a Mexico City apartment leased by the U.S. Embassy. Investigators later uncovered nearly 500 photographs and video footage of numerous women passed out in Raymonds bed. In some, a man can be seen holding open the victims eyelids, waving their limp arms and legs around, or putting his fingers in their mouths to demonstrate that they are unconscious, according to court filings.

U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia

A nude and obviously aroused Raymond, who passed more than 10 polygraph exams during his government career, is pictured in several of the images.

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Raymond, who speaks Spanish and Mandarin Chinese and worked in at least six different countries over some 20 years of federal service that Raymonds defense team described as exemplary, met his unsuspecting victims on Bumble, Hinge, and other dating apps. After meeting Raymond for a date, his victims reported drinking alcohol supplied and/or prepared by Raymond and experiencing memory loss during their time with Raymond, states Raymonds plea agreement. At least nine of Raymonds attacks occurred in his official government residence.

Raymonds online footprint was nearly nonexistent, and his vague job description led to speculation that he was an undercover operative rather than a State Department worker.

Note, I did not say "State Department staffer." Court documents do not specify Raymonds position at the Mexico City embassy, and there are few traces of him on the internet. You can decide who his real employer is. https://t.co/N8OWu7wM9S  Noah Shachtman (@NoahShachtman) October 27, 2020

He continued to carry out his repugnant rape spree even after he knew he was under investigation, then unsuccessfully tried to wipe the incriminating evidence from his phone, documents show. None of the women were capable of consent when they were assaulted, none consented to being recorded while in that state, and few had any memory of the events in question, according to authorities. Investigators uncovered numerous chats between Raymond and the women he assaulted in which they apologize for blacking out, ask Raymond if they had sex, and appear to have no recollection of what happened the night before.

When investigators looked into Raymonds online search history, they discovered he had looked for phrases including passed out black girl, deep sleep, Ambien and alcohol and pass out, dissolve, and passed out and carried. One set of photos depicted Raymond abusing an unconscious woman, exposing her breast and pulling down her shorts. The next morning, Raymond texted the woman, according to investigators.

[H]opefully you arent too hung over today, he said.

Hey! the woman replied, obviously unaware as to what had happened. Yesterday was rough. I had a massive hangover... lol. I had fun too! We have to do it again.

On their second date, the woman and Raymond went to a wine bar then headed back to her place, where she opened a bottle of red wine for them to share. At one point, she left the bottle unattended while the two stepped out onto the balcony. When Raymond went inside to use the bathroom, he came back out with the wine bottle and refilled both of their glasses. But the woman soon felt woozy and felt like she was going to faint. The last thing she remembered was telling Jeffrey that she needed to lie down. Later, the woman woke up with a fully clothed Jeffrey in bed beside her.

Although she was still having trouble standing, the womanwho had no idea she had been sexually assaulted until she was eventually interviewed by investigatorsnoticed that Raymond didnt appear impaired at all.

Raymond was arrested last October outside a gym in California. Just days before he was caught, he spent the night with a woman he met online who told cops she believes she had sex with [Raymond] at least three times, but she only has small fragments of memory of the encounters, court filings stated.

Raymond is scheduled to be sentenced in Washington, D.C. federal court on Feb. 7. His attorneys did not respond to a request for comment.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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(Reuters) - A panel of outside advisers to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday voted to recommend the Pfizer Inc and BioNTech SE COVID-19 vaccine for children ages five to 11 years.

(Reporting by Manas Mishra in Bengaluru; Editing by Bill Berkrot)
By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Democratic and Republican U.S. lawmakers urged President Joe Biden's administration not to sell F-16 fighter jets to Turkey and said they were confident Congress would block any such exports.

In a letter to Biden and U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, 11 members of the House of Representatives cited "a profound sense of concern" about recent reports that Turkey may purchase 40 new Lockheed Martin F-16s and 80 F-16 modernization kits.

The letter was dated Oct. 25 and reviewed by Reuters on Tuesday.

"Following President (Tayyip) Erdogan's September announcement that Turkey will purchase an additional tranche of Russian S-400 missile defense systems, we cannot afford to compromise our national security by sending U.S.-manufactured aircraft to a treaty ally which continues to behave like an adversary," the lawmakers wrote.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. A State Department spokesperson said the department does not comment on correspondence with Congress.

Reuters reported earlier this month https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/turkey-seeks-40-f-16-jets-upgrade-air-force-sources-2021-10-07 that Turkey had made a request to the United States to buy 40 Lockheed Martin-made F-16 fighter jets and nearly 80 modernization kits for its existing warplanes.

Ankara had also previously ordered more than 100 Lockheed Martin F-35s, but the United States removed Turkey from the program in 2019 after it acquired the Russian S-400s.

The letter was led by Republican Representative Nicole Malliotakis and Democratic Representative Carolyn Maloney.

"While we are confident that Congress will stand together to block any such exports should these plans progress, the United States cannot afford to transfer any advanced military equipment to the government of Turkey at this time," the letter said.

The partnership between the NATO allies has gone through tumult in the past five years over disagreements on Syria, Ankara's closer ties with Moscow, its naval ambitions in the Mediterranean, U.S. charges against a state-owned Turkish bank and erosion of rights and freedoms in Turkey.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle; Editing by Karishma Singh)
For years Canadian officials prioritized trade with China and ignored warnings from Chinese Canadians that the Chinese government presented a serious political and moral challenge, a Canadian journalist argues in a new book.

Why it matters: An earlier response by democratic governments could have relieved the pressure on Chinese diaspora communities and sent a strong message to Beijing that exporting authoritarianism wouldn't be tolerated.

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Details: In her book "China Unbound: A New World Disorder," Canadian journalist and former China correspondent Joanna Chiu offers a globe-trotting view of China's ties with Canada, Australia, the U.S., Greece, Italy, Turkey and Russia.

Chiu finds governments and societies often oversimplify narratives regarding China  some Americans, for example, believe the Chinese Communist Party poses an unambiguous existential threat, and some Italian politicians claim Chinese investment can save the country's failing economy. The truth is rarely so black and white.

Anti-Chinese racism, too, has been overly simplified and insufficiently understood, Chiu states. Tougher policies and confrontational rhetoric on China can make the lives of people in AAPI communities in western countries more difficult.

But western leaders might have become aware of Beijing's goals sooner if they hadn't prioritized narrow business interests and had instead paid attention when people of Chinese descent living in the west were harassed, censored, and unjustly detained for long periods of time in China, Chiu argues.

What she's saying: "Right now there's a narrative that goes, if you dont want to be racist and if you want to avoid further marginalizing the diaspora, then you shouldn't say or do anything about Beijings actions. But that actually erases decades of warnings and diverse lived experiences of people in the diaspora," Chiu told me in an interview.

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Concern about the erasure of Chinese diaspora perspectives is widely held among researchers who study the Chinese Communist Party's political interference activities abroad.

In her reporting, Chiu spoke with Chinese students living in Canada who faced threats from China's security services and surveillance from the Chinese embassy, part of an overseas expansion of the Chinese Communist Party's influence arm the United Front Work Department.

She also spoke with a Chinese Canadian community leader whose years of grassroots work to get Chinese Canadian voices heard was drowned out by a new organization with an almost identical name that was supported by the Chinese embassy and that tended to issue press releases making opposite claims.

When Chiu tried to report threats made against her in Canada for reports she had published about Xinjiang, a spokesperson for Canadas Minister of Public Safety told Chiu the government takes threats to the security of individuals living in Canada very seriously and said people should report incidents to local police.

Driving the news: Canada-China ties are up in the air after a nearly three-year diplomatic standoff finally ended just weeks ago with Canada's release of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou, wanted by the U.S. for fraud charges, and China's subsequent release of Canadian political hostages Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.

Chiu knew Kovrig personally and was relieved at his release. But in an August article, she also criticized Canada's lack of a response when in previous years, Canadian citizens of Chinese descent had been similarly detained in China. "If China hadnt targeted white Canadians, would Chinese-Canadian relations be business as usual?" Chiu asked.

Background: Anti-Chinese sentiment spiked globally during the COVID pandemic, but it's nothing new. Chinese people have a long history of maltreatment at the hands of western countries, something Chiu's family has personally experienced.

Chiu's great-great-great-grandfather came to Canada in the 19th century, tricked into believing he could mine for gold, but instead found he was only permitted to do grueling manual labor for low pay on the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Discriminatory immigration policies made it nearly impossible for him to bring his family with him, so he ended up going back to China with few savings. Chiu herself was born in Hong Kong and came to Canada as a small child.

The bottom line: "What is needed is getting people in the diaspora into positions of influence and power, rather than using them as an excuse to continue with business as usual with China," Chiu told Axios.

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A Virginia Beach woman who sold $31.8 million worth of counterfeit coupons to shoppers used the money to pay for high-end home renovations and vacations, according to new information released by the FBI.

Lori Ann Talens, 41, was sentenced to 12 years in prison last month after pleading guilty to mail, wire and health care fraud. Her husband, Pacifico Talens Jr., 43, was sentenced to more than seven years in prison for his role in supporting the scheme.

Virginia Beach: Couple faces jail time after costing retailers $31 million in counterfeit coupon ring

Prosecutors: Massachusetts man who faked his own death gets sentenced to 56 months

According to the FBI, Talens used the profits to buy high-end home renovations including an in-ground swimming pool, a new sunroom and a new kitchen. Her family also enjoyed shopping, eating out and high-end vacations at a deep discount.

Lori Ann Talens' home had thousands of counterfeit coupons, rolls of coupon paper, and coupon designs for more than 13,000 products on her computer.

Talens, dubbed the "criminal couponer," by the FBI, used her graphic design skills to manipulate barcodes for coupons at nearly any store in the country. In total, she collected $400,000 over three years from shoppers who used the coupons. She also used the coupons to help finance a lavish lifestyle.

In a search of Lori Ann Talens' home, FBI agents found about $1 million worth of counterfeit coupons, rolls of coupon paper and coupon designs for more than 13,000 products on her computer.

Related video: Scammers use pandemic to target PCs, smartphones

"There were coupons in every jacket pocket; they were stuffed in her vehicles," postal Inspector Jason Thomasson said in the FBI press release.

Talens, who used Facebook and Telegram to find coupon users, was able to avoid authorities by using encrypted communication services to deal with her customers and by using cryptocurrencies for payments.

"If the coupons are rejected, if they are counterfeit, then the retailer doesnt get paid back for them," FBI Special Agent Shannon Brill in the press release. "But that whole process takes a lot of time. By the time a coupon gets identified as being fraudulent or fake, that coupon has already been used who knows how many times."

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In the scheme, Talens used the online name MasterChef and made counterfeit vouchers that "were virtually indistinguishable from authentic coupons and were often created with inflated values, far in excess of what an authentic coupon would offer, in order to receive items from retail for free or for a greatly reduced price," according to a statement from the Justice Department.

Talens shipped the counterfeit coupons using the U.S. Postal Service and accepted payment through online payment methods such as Bitcoin and Paypal. Her husband assisted in shipping the counterfeit coupons and profited from the sales, the FBI said.

The Talens' scheme unraveled when one of their customers reported them to the Coupon Information Center, a coalition dedicated to coupon integrity. The coupon center acted as Talens' customer, purchased coupons and later confirmed they were counterfeit. The coupon center then notified the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which investigated the case.

In addition to the fraudulent coupon ring, Talens defrauded Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program out of about $43,000 over five years by failing to report her husband's employment income when applying, the FBI said.

Contributing: Gabriela Miranda

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Criminal couponer' tricked shoppers, robbed stores for $31.8 million
Desmond Reilly couldnt stand seeing the 25-seat private dining room at The Walrus Oyster & Ale House at The Mall in Columbia go unused during the pandemic.

I was going into work every day looking at this empty room, said Reilly, managing principal of Star Restaurant Groups, which owns The Walrus Oyster & Ale House. There is nothing worse than being a restaurateur seeing an unused space in your restaurant.

The Clarksville resident knew Howard Countys diverse population would likely embrace a concept that honored the melding of cultures. Hence, Walrus Roadside Stand was conceived.

Reilly contacted Enrique Limardo, whom he calls one of the best Latin chefs in America, to curate a menu that would reflect the Mexican-inspired cuisine found throughout the California coastline.

Limardo, a native of Caracas, Venezuela, led the kitchen at Alma Cocina Latina [a Venezuelan restaurant] in Baltimore from 2014 to 2019. His debut restaurant Seven Reasons, in Washington, D.C., which specializes in South American cuisine, was named Americas Best New Restaurant by Esquire in 2019.

For Walrus Roadside, Limardo tapped into his time living in Mexico for the inexpensive, yet flavorful, and filling menu items that comprise the offerings at the newly opened restaurant.

I always wanted to do a taco stand. I loved cruising up California and going to these tiny roadside stands. It was a mecca of Mexican and Latino cuisine, Reilly recalled.

Limardo, who spent 12 years living around the world including a two-year stint in Mexico, put together a beautiful but simplistic menu, where customers can get a burger, hot dog or taco, according to Reilly.

In addition to the restaurant being quick and delicious, Reilly also touts the price point. Hot dogs are $1.50 and tacos are $3.50.

The tacos are a jewel of the offerings. Limardo created a bevy of exciting tacos including crispy cod, chicken al pastor and tempura oyster. He also recommends wild style, which is a mixture of brisket and sweet bacon.

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And the decor of the new concept is as flashy and enticing as the food, according to Reilly and Limardo.

Its a completely different looking space, Reilly said of the 359-square-foot spinoff. Its a total throwback to the car culture of the 1960s when everyone used to drive around to drive-ins and takeouts.

Reilly said he wanted to use the new concept as a way to attract a different type of people who couldnt afford to spend $35 on a lobster roll.

Reilly added: It is a great way for them to try [Limardos] food. [Walrus Roadside] gets them connected to a chef that they might not be able to. Its a great offering for the community.

In 2017, Reilly and Limardo teamed up for Chicken + Whiskey, a fast-casual concept that specializes in rotisserie chicken. The two met in 2016 when Reilly and his wife would eat at Alma Cocina Latina.

So far, the response to the restaurant has been great, Reilly said.

Walrus Roadside only magnifies the diversity of the area, Reilly said, adding: That really resonates with Columbia. And you see it. We sold more than 200 tacos yesterday. Its a mixture of everything that Columbia is. People really dig the mashup of cultures here, which I really love.

Walrus Roadside Stand. Open 7 days a week 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 10300 Little Patuxent Pkwy, Columbia. walrusoysterandale.com/roadside
Demonstrators took to the streets around Sudan's capital city after the country's top general seized power in a military coup. Meanwhile, a U.S. official said a drone attack on a military outpost in Syria where U.S. troops are based is believed to have been carried out by Iran, and a diplomatic crisis between Turkey and Western nations appears to have been narrowly averted. Also, Japan's Princess Mako married her commoner boyfriend and forfeited her royal status following unusual scrutiny and criticism of the engagement. CBS News' Haley Ott joined "CBSN AM" from London with those international stories.
By David Stanway

SHANGHAI (Reuters) - The leaders of most of the world's biggest greenhouse gas emitters gather in Glasgow from Sunday, aiming to thrash out plans and funds to tilt the planet towards clean energy. But the man running the biggest of them all likely won't be there.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's expected absence from the talks could indicate that the world's biggest CO2 producer has already decided that it has no more concessions to offer at the U.N. COP26 climate summit in Scotland after three major pledges since last year, climate watchers said.

Instead, China will likely be represented by vice-environment minister Zhao Yingmin along with the veteran Xie Zhenhua, who was reappointed as the country's top climate envoy earlier this year following a three-year hiatus.

"One thing is clear," said Li Shuo, senior climate adviser with Greenpeace in Beijing. "COP26 needs high-level support from China as well as other emitters."

The head of the world's third-biggest source of climate-warming emissions, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has committed to attending the COP26 summit, which runs from Oct. 31 to Nov. 12. Like other leaders, he will come under pressure from summit organisers to commit to quicker emissions cuts and set a target date to reach carbon neutrality - a target set by Xi for 2060 in a surprise move last year.

But China will be unwilling to be seen yielding to international pressure for more ambitious goals, according to one environmental consultant, especially as it grapples with a crippling energy supply crunch at home. Beijing is "already maxed out", said the consultant, speaking on condition of anonymity citing the sensitivity of the matter.

Though there has been no official announcement, analysts and diplomatic sources said few had been expecting Xi to attend COP26 in person. He has already missed several high-profile global summits since the COVID-19 outbreak began in late 2019, and didn't physically attend the Global Biodiversity Conference in China's Kunming earlier this month.

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They also said Xi was unlikely to lend his physical presence - a virtual video appearance remains a possibility - to a meeting that had little prospect of any significant breakthrough, especially after China brushed off U.S. attempts to treat climate as a 'standalone' issue that could be separated from the broader diplomatic disputes between the two sides.

Rather than making more concessions, China and India's top priority is to secure a strong financing deal allowing richer countries to meet their Paris Agreement commitment to provide $100 billion per year to help pay for climate adaptation and transfer clean technology in the developing world. Xi did attend the Paris summit in person in 2015.

DOMESTIC CONCERNS

Although Xi has not travelled outside China since before the pandemic, he has made three major climate announcements on the international stage.

His unexpected net zero commitment came in a video address to the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2020. That announcement encouraged enterprises, industry sectors and even other countries to respond with their own net-zero action plans.

Xi also said in a message to the U.S.-led Leaders Summit on Climate in April that China would start cutting coal consumption by 2026. And he used this year's UNGA to announce an immediate end to overseas coal financing, a major bone of contention.

Like India, China has been under pressure to add more ambition to its updated "nationally determined contributions" (NDCs) on climate change, which are due to be announced before the Glasgow talks begin.

However, the revisions are expected to focus on implementing the targets that have already been announced, rather than making them more ambitious.

China has repeatedly stressed that its climate policies are designed to serve its own domestic priorities, and will not be pursued at the expense of national security and public welfare.

Ma Jun, director of the Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs, a Beijing-based non-government group that monitors corporate pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, said China already had enough climate challenges to deal with and has little leeway to go further in Glasgow.

"With all the headwinds and all the pledges that have been made, it is important to take stock and consolidate," he said.

"It's not enough to put these (commitments) on paper," he added. "We have to translate them into solid actions."

(Reporting by David Stanway; Additional reporting by Neha Arora in New Delhi; Editing by Kenneth Maxwell)
New York City's biggest police union filed a lawsuit Monday against Mayor Bill de Blasio's COVID-19 vaccine requirement for all NYC public employees.

Why it matters: The mandate requires all city employees to have had at least one dose by this Friday. They must show proof of vaccination or they'll be placed on unpaid leave. The Police Benevolent Association of New York tweeted Monday that it's seeking a temporary restraining order to halt the mandate, pending the outcome of its lawsuit.

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The suit, filed in Staten Island, is seeking to enable unvaccinated police officers to continue working.

Of note: About 70% of NYPD employees have received at least one dose, the mayor said when he announced news of the requirement last Wednesday, per Reuters.

Go deeper: Scores of police officers are refusing the COVID vaccine

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Recalling her arrest, Colvin said: My mindset was on freedom.

So I was not going to move that day, she said. I told them that history had me glued to the seat. And the struggle isnt yet over, she said, adding, We still have to continue to fight for our freedom and our rights."

Colvin left Alabama at age 20 and spent decades in New York, but relatives always worried what might happen when she returned for visits since no court official ever said she had finished probation, according to Ensler.

Her family has lived with this tremendous fear ever since then, he said. For all the recognition of recent years and the attempts to tell her story, there wasnt anything done to clear her record.

Currently living in Birmingham before a move to stay with relatives in Texas, the octogenarian Colvin made her request to a juvenile court judge oddly enough since that's where she was judged delinquent and placed on what, for all practical purposes, amounted to a lifetime of probation, Ensler said.
What is the purpose of the criminal justice system in Virginia? It is to punish people for crimes or to rehabilitate offenders so that they may play a constructive role in society?

Those questions sit at the heart of every debate over criminal justice reform  or at least they should. Because at the center of police, courts and corrections should be the common goal of helping people become the best versions of themselves and productive members of society.

That may sound a little like touchy-feely, new-agey nonsense. After all, those entities exist to catch, prosecute and imprison criminals in the interest of public safety. And there is no doubt that some offenses require lengthy prison terms and some offenders are beyond rehabilitation.

But when an opportunity exists to transform peoples lives by giving them treatment, support and care rather than time behind bars, its in everyones interest to pursue it.

Thats happening now in Newport News, where people with serious mental illnesses have an alternative path through the criminal justice system in the form of the Behavioral Health Docket.
Japanese motor maker Nidec will focus on sales of motors for smaller electric vehicles, as intensifying price competition forces more automakers to source the vital components from outside suppliers, Nidec founder and Chairman Shigenobu Nagamori said Tuesday.

"Just as in home appliances, the price competition in EVs will be more severe, with new entrants from outside the car industry coming into the market," Nagamori said.

The year 2025 will be a "turning point" in which demand for electric car motors starts to rise, he added, with some automakers expected start procuring motors from other companies instead of building their own due to pressure to cut costs.

Nidec has been turning out electric car motors since 2018. It aims to grab 40% to 45% of the global market for such motors by 2030 by investing heavily in China, a large and rapidly growing market for electric vehicles.

Nagamori cited the example of a $5,000 mini EV made by a Chinese electric car company for the domestic market, saying this is the direction the car industry is heading. Nidec aims to produce motors for 3.5 million electric vehicles by fiscal 2025 and is looking to raise that to 10 million units by fiscal 2030, he said.

"We will invest in equipment and grow human resources, and acquire companies if necessary," Nagamori said. "We are confident that we are the only company in the world that is currently preparing for the upcoming competition with such investment," he added.

Nagamori spoke to the media after the Japanese motor maker on Tuesday reported a 30% increase in operating profit on the year for the six months through September despite headwinds from global supply chain disruptions.

The Kyoto-based company reported an operating profit of 90 billion yen ($704 million), compared with a consensus forecast for 80 billion yen. Its six-month sales came to 910 billion yen, up 21%, versus market expectations for 800 billion yen.

Nidec is the world's largest supplier of motors used in home appliances, computer hard disk drives, robots and automotive parts such as seats and power steering.
Gee said his principals have covered classrooms occasionally and paying their full time teachers to sub during their prep periods, a strategy started three years ago. Sometimes classes have been split or brought into study halls in order to have a teacher watch them according to Gee.

We have had to be creative. Sometimes that means pulling in teachers that are on their prep periods to cover. Sometimes it means taking a class, dividing it and sending half of the class to another classroom and the other half to another classroom, said Drzycimski.

Drzycimski and Lettow said had concerns with the number of subs the district has due to flu season and because of COVID-19 cases.

A number of our employees have students that go to this district. So if the kids are sick, someone has to be home with them too, said Drzycimski.

One thing that I would say was nice with wearing masks, even though there werent many, was that there wasnt much of a flu season, said Lettow. Without wearing masks, I will expect more of a flu season.

Gee explained he didnt know of any concerns about flu season building up but knew that illness, other than COVID-19, was going to be on the rise since there is no masking in the district.
To date, there has been a 99.9% worldwide reduction in polio cases over the past three decades. Further efforts are needed to eliminate the wild poliovirus from Afghanistan and Pakistan, where it is still endemic. No one wants to lose any of the progress that has already been made.

Polio is a highly infectious disease that most commonly affects children younger than 5. The virus is spread primarily through contaminated water. It can attack the nervous system and, in some instances, lead to paralysis. Although there is no cure, there is a safe and effective vaccine, which Rotary and its partners have used to immunize more than 2.5 billion children worldwide.

Concern remains that the disease could rebound if not completely eliminated. Unless polio is eradicated within 10 years, as many as 200,000 new cases could develop around the world each year, according to Rotary International. Although only two countries have reported polio cases caused by the wild virus in the past few years, leaders fear no child is safe until they have all been vaccinated.

The Council Bluffs Noon and Centennial Rotary Clubs have supported the eradication effort. Every year, members are asked to make an annual contribution to the PolioPlus Campaign. In October, the Noon Rotarys programming focuses on polio and why it is important to continue the campaign.

Anyone interested in hearing Brens presentation may contact club administrator Cieandra Tripp at cbrotaryclub@gmail.com or send a note to the Council Bluffs Rotary Club at P.O. Box 673, Council Bluffs, IA 51502.

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A strong advocate for rural development, who was known for getting things done during his long tenure in the Nebraska Legislature, has died.

Former state Sen. Merton "Cap" Dierks, 89, died Friday from complications following a stroke. He was known as a state senator who preserved relationships as he advocated for issues important to him.

"Rural America lost one of its very best champions," said John Hansen, president of the Nebraska Farmers Union, describing Dierks as "one of the most influential and respected state senators" in the Legislature in the last 35-plus years. "He argued things from a moral and ethical and policy perspective, so he raised the level of debate on a lot of discussions."

Former U.S. Sen. and Nebraska Gov. Bob Kerrey and current Sen. Deb Fischer offered similar praise.

"Cap was a man whose faith and love of Nebraska combined with the virtue of caring about the opinions of everyone made him a model of what public service is at its best," Kerrey posted in a tribute on Facebook. "I trusted and loved this man completely. Young Nebraskans: Remember him. Be like him. You cannot do better."
CEDAR RAPIDS  If he had known someone was keeping score, state Sen. Rob Hogg says he might have tried harder.

Still, the Cedar Rapids Democratic wasnt surprised to learn that hes the most active Iowa legislator on Twitter and Facebook, according to Quorum, a Washington-based public affairs software company that tracked the social media posting of lawmakers in 50 states since the beginning of the year.

Hogg, who was elected to the Iowa House in 2002 and the Senate in 2006, has posted to his Twitter and Facebook accounts 3,994 times between Jan. 1 and Aug. 25, Quorum said.

That sounds about right, Hogg said.

He finds social media a useful tool for communicating with not only his southeast Cedar Rapids constituents, but Iowans in general. Hogg doesnt post as often about legislation as he does about the coronavirus pandemic, the destruction of existing prairie land near his Otis Road home for a rail car storage yard and, more recently, about the upcoming United Nations Climate Change conference beginning Thursday.

Social media, I think, can be useful, said Hogg, who is not seeking re-election in 2022. The trick is for people not to get dragged down in it and forget about other things.

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So it would seem like these are maps that Republicans, with their majorities in both the Senate and House, could accept. House Republicans were ready to approve the first maps, so its hard to imagine theyll have an issue with this new proposal. The key lies within the Senate Republican caucus.

To be fair, if Republicans reject these new maps, thats still fair game and does nothing to sully the reputation of Iowas widely praised redistricting process. Iowa legislators have, in the past, taken the process to the third set of maps. But one can also understand why statehouse Democrats have been sounding the alarm. While some of their claims have been hyperbolic, statehouse Republicans have, since gaining full control of the state lawmaking process in 2017, not shown much of an inclination to ease into their agenda. Simply put: if theyve wanted to do something, theyve done it, no matter who and how many howled. So its not difficult to see why Democrats are calling on Republicans to stop short of going to a third set of proposed maps and enacting Republican-drawn amendments.
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Holly Ostergard serves as president of the Acklie Charitable Foundation and is vice chair of Crete Carrier Corp. She is a graduate of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln College of Education and Human Sciences. In 2018, she received the Perry W. Branch Award from the University of Nebraska Foundation for Distinguished Volunteer Service, an award her husband, Tonn, has also received. Holly has also been recognized with the Inspire Excellence in Philanthropy Award, and the First Plymouth Woman of Distinction Award. She serves on the boards of the University of Nebraska Foundation, Lighthouse, Lincoln Childrens Zoo and Southeast Community College Foundation. Holly has been a member of Women Investing in Nebraska since 2013.

Their families have deep Aksarben roots. Tonns grandmother received Aksarbens Good Neighbor of the Year Award in 1975. Hollys father was inducted into the Aksarben Court of Honor in 1996. Holly was an Aksarben Countess in 1981 and served as president of Aksarben Friends in 2011. Their two children, who each play integral roles in the day-to-day business operations of Crete Carrier, have also been part of Aksarben. Winston Ostergard was an Aksarben Escort in 2009 and Halley Ostergard was a Page in 1995, a Countess in 2007 and named Queen of Aksarben that same year. Holly and Tonns granddaughter, Avery, served as a Page in Saturday nights production and had the additional responsibility of being the clock-bearer at the beginning of the program.
Saturdays Generating Resources for Educational Excellence produced a record-setting total.

Net proceeds for the event, which benefits the North Platte Catholic Schools Endowment Trust, are expected to be $210,000 to $220,000, according to a media release Monday.

Wendy Dodson, the endowments director, said it would be the highest fundraising total for the event that started in 2003.

The event, held at St. Patricks High School, drew a crowd of 275.

A 17-item live auction catalog generated over $60,000 in proceeds. An online silent auction netted $43,455.

Both auction totals are the highest on record for G.R.E.E.N. In addition, more than $40,000 was given by G.R.E.E.N. donors in the 2021 Fund-A-Need.

The funds will be used toward the purchase of a new gym tarp system, a new school vehicle, exterior painting on the NPCS campus and growth of the existing technology fund.

More than $10,000 was donated to the G.R.E.E.N. teacher wish list for specific classroom needs submitted by NPCS teachers.

Krista Struckman claimed a $1,000 prize in the Heads or Tails game.
Editor's Note This story originally appeared in the winter 2018 edition of The Telegraphs former Revisited magazine.

Gaze upon the vast openness of North Americas Great Plains, and its understandable why our digital civilizations most indispensable service  electricity  took the longest to spread its roots in west central Nebraska.

In well-connected towns like North Platte, electric and telephone services arrived and evolved side by side. But while phone companies gradually were absorbed into a many-headed, privately owned monopoly, electric providers in Nebraska were forcibly united under public ownership by the economic pressures of the Great Depression and rural demands that some way be found to extend electric poles and power stations in their direction.

Other states have public power districts, but Nebraska has long been the only state where private power has no place. In North Platte, as in a few other Nebraska cities, the revolution went one step further in the run-up to World War II.

Private beginnings

Benjamin Franklin may be considered the father of American scientific investigation of electricity. Certainly it took electricity to make the telegraph work in the 1840s. But it was Thomas Edisons 1879 invention of a practical light bulb that finally spurred the spread of electrical systems that would forever change Americans home and working lives.

They first appear in North Platte newspapers in the inaugural issue of the Lincoln County Tribune on Jan. 24, 1885. Judging by the tone of the news item, the business behind electrifying North Platte was controversial from the start.

The city council had quite an animated discussion Monday evening (Jan. 19) over a proposed ordinance giving the exclusive right for electric lighting in the city for the next seven years to a company represented by Mr. McConnell, the Tribune wrote.

We have not had time or facility to investigate this scheme, but if our citizens have enterprise enough to put in an expensive plant for the purpose, it would seem proper they should receive some protection.

Mr. McConnell apparently got nowhere, but electric lights themselves were already sprouting along North Plattes streets, thanks to one C.M. Green. The representative of the Sperry Electric Light Co. offered the city a one-year contract to install five streetlights for $100 per month, with Sperry donating back the operating cost of one of the five.

Workmen have been busy during the past week putting up wires for the proposed electric light system, and our city will soon be lighted by this beautiful and brilliant illuminating power, the Tribune wrote Jan. 31.

Nearly all the hotels, stores and public places will be subscribers ... and it is believed that in a short time it will be introduced into most of the offices and many private residences where the incandescent lamp can be used to better advantage.

One R.A. Pilcher was responsible for installing electric light plants in North Platte, Hastings and Kearney, according to the Tribunes Sept. 26 issue. But not until the 19th century became the 20th did the private forerunner of North Plattes city-owned electric provider enter the scene.

The North Platte Electric Light, Heat and Power Co., managed by Lester Walker Jr., received a one-year franchise in 1901 for a citywide electric system. A Tribune story from June 25 of that year indicates that its 1880s predecessor was limited in scope: After many years of patient waiting, North Platte will soon have a system of electric lighting.

But the question of granting city franchises for all types of private utilities  electricity, natural gas, water, telephones  continued to roil community debate. The new power company sought and won City Council franchises for ever-longer terms, calling them necessary to expand and modernize service. Critics, alleging the firms put profits over service, called for the city to buy out the utilities.

The city had already taken over the North Platte Water Works when Willis Todd and J.W. Parrish of Omaha bought the North Platte electric system in 1914. They sought and won a 25-year electric and gas franchise, despite complaints that the new owners had inherited a franchise that had 13 years to run.

Though the proposed new franchise would let the city buy the plant, we will have to pay for those very things which we have given away, the writer said in the Tribunes issue of March 31, 1914. Manifestly this is very unfair.

The City Council granted the franchise. But when it expired in 1939, North Platte residents were of quite a different mind.

Depression and public power

That 25-year franchise, like its predecessors, would transfer to new ownership if the power company were sold. At the end of 1923, North Platte Light & Power Co. was sold to Northwestern Public Service Co., which would supply both electricity and gas for 17 years.

But the idea of public utility ownership slowly gained momentum in the 1920s, when several Nebraska cities bought out their electric plants. By 1932, the privations of the Great Depression had North Platte residents ready to take matters into their own hands.

Electric light and power rates and the price paid for gas in North Platte are too high, and they must come down! That was the theme that pervaded the mass meeting last night in the (Lincoln County) district court room, the Evening Telegraph reported on May 5, 1932.

The term mass meeting was appropriate. Every seat was occupied, including the jury chairs and the ones in the enclosure; every foot of available standing room was occupied, and others crowded the corridors, the story continued. Everyone stayed until the meeting was over.

Following up on evidence that North Plattes electric rates were much higher than in Denver and other regional cities, a committee of 11 was appointed to negotiate lower rates with Northwestern  or to impose lower rates by City Council ordinance or petition drive.

But there was an alternative, committee spokesman R.H. Beatty told the gathering: the building of a municipal light plant, which could be paid for from the earnings of the plant without the taxpayers having to pay out a dollar.

While the council debated a rate-setting ordinance, the committee  including prominent businessmen Walter J. OConnor and William Maloney  brought Public Ownership League of America secretary Carl D. Thompson to tout public ownership Sept. 12 at the Fox Theatre.

As reported by the Evening Telegraph, Thompson declared that no private corporation would ever match the rate charged by these municipal plants, except when the light and power plant fears the citizens are really going to put in a plant to compete with them. Even then, the citizens do not get the profits that the city treasury would receive if the city owned its own light plant.

If you would make your city, your citizens prosperous, then you must own and operate some of the money-making utilities, Thompson told the crowd.

Northwestern cut its electric rates a month later, but not enough to stop the council, at the committees behest, from imposing a 14% rate cut effective on New Years Day 1933.

Northwestern sought to block it in federal court, but U.S. District Judge Joseph Woodrough ordered the firm and the city to work out their differences, the Tribune reported on April 6. It is understood that the Company will now render bills for electricity under the new lower rates of the ordinance which went into effect on January 1.

Its unclear whether North Plattes lower rates held up. But over the next five years, Nebraskas public power push gained steam on the states farms and ranches.

Private power companies had resisted extending their lines into rural areas throughout the 1920s, contending they could never earn enough to pay for the equipment. The 1929 stock market crash and the Depression squelched any hope of persuading them otherwise, leaving most farmers and ranchers to use portable generators  if they could afford them.

It would take a new president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Nebraskas nationally famous U.S. Sen. George W. Norris to enable the electrification of rural America.

Prodded to enact FDRs New Deal, Congress established the Norris-backed Tennessee Valley Authority to extend hydropower-generated electric service through much of the Deep South. Another new agency, the Rural Electrification Administration, offered federal aid to encourage construction of power lines to farms and ranches nationwide.

It dovetailed nicely with a 1933 law in Norris home state enabling the formation of public power districts to serve them  and with the flowering of two long-discussed projects at North Plattes doorstep.

First to take shape was the Sutherland Project, built by the Platte Valley Public Power and Irrigation District with headquarters in North Platte.

It employed 2,000 men to divert North Platte River water into a series of canals and store it for irrigation and hydropower generation in Sutherland Reservoir and Lake Maloney south of North Platte. A 1946 addition to the system also diverted South Platte River water into the canals, which rejoin the latter river in North Platte.

New Deal funds began flowing in July 1934, and the Sutherland Projects canals and lakes had filled by 1936  the launch year for the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation Districts even larger Tri-County Project, featuring the massive Kingsley Dam across the North Platte River near Ogallala.

Dedicated in July 1941, the dam created Lake McConaughy to store water for farmers in Gosper, Phelps and Kearney counties. The Tri-County and Sutherland projects would become interlinked, with another series of canals from the merged Platte River feeding Jeffrey, Midway and Johnson Lake reservoirs downstream, generating power along the way.

The Central district remains a separate entity to this day, but the Legislature in 1939 merged the Platte Valley district with two others to form Consumers Public Power District, itself the forerunner of todays Nebraska Public Power District. The goal was to create a statewide power grid, fully controlled by Nebraskans, by buying out the private power firms and their generating plants.

Lincoln County farmers and ranchers were cautious about rural electrification. While fledgling public power districts elsewhere in Nebraska were securing REA money to extend electric lines, the Tribune commented in March 1937: A project of this kind has been considered for the Platte valley south and east of North Platte, but little interest was shown among the farmers.

Not until 1939 were New Deal-aided electric lines poised to enter the county under the auspices of Lexington-based Dawson County Public Power District, which received $318,000 from REA to build 272 miles of line serving Dawson, Lincoln, Buffalo and Gosper counties.

Dawson Public Power officials attended a June 1940 REA meeting at North Plattes Hotel Pawnee that drew some 50 interested parties throughout western Nebraska. Extension of Dawsons lines into the eastern edges of Lincoln county was announced there, the North Platte Daily Bulletin  which would merge with The Telegraph in 1946  reported on June 22, 1940.

Another REA meeting was held that October at OFallons School near Sutherland, and the Bulletin reported on Jan. 30, 1941, that Dawson Public Power  thanks to a new $400,000 grant from REA  would proceed with electrification of rural homes in Lincoln county by July along a network of 275 miles of power lines.

The Tribune reported in March 1941 that workers, following the Platte Rivers south shore, had set poles and tied in wire from the North Platte power house as far east as Bignell. Another Dawson Public Power line generally followed the rivers north side, the paper wrote in August.

In time, electricity would penetrate into every corner of Lincoln County. But in that year when America would enter World War II, North Plattes final plunge into public power was already a year old.

The roots of ML&W

It had begun in July 1938, when Northwestern conditionally accepted offers by the Loup and Platte Valley public power districts to buy the firms electric plants at Columbus and North Platte respectively. But the deal required the city councils and 90% of Northwesterns stockholders and bondholders to agree by Sept. 30, the Omaha World-Herald reported.

That didnt happen. But Platte Valley was still maneuvering to buy North Plattes steam-generated power plant  with the intent of leasing or selling the distribution system to the city  at the start of 1939, the year that Northwesterns much-hated 25-year electric and gas franchise would expire on April 30.

The City Council fired the first shots in January, imposing a 14% electric rate cut by city ordinance  as it had done in 1932  and joining Platte Valleys board of directors in officially opposing renewal of the franchise.

In late February, Platte Valley had agreed to sell its Sutherland-generated hydropower to Northwestern for its North Platte customers. As Northwestern shut down its North Platte generating plant, the council voted to put a bond issue of up to $360,000 to build a city-owned distribution system before voters at the April 4 city election.

Voters never got to decide that question, because the utility successfully circulated petitions to ask them whether to give Northwestern an all-new 25-year franchise. As a May 2 special election on the matter approached, North Platte residents vented a quarter-century of frustration.

Ever since 1914, the people have paid this enormous amount and after twenty-five years we do not own anything, and now comes this same power company asking the people for another huge donation, charged A.E. Bell in the March 22 issue of the Bulletin.

Mayor George B. Dent Jr. vowed he would not sit idly by and see the hands of the citys officials tied for another 25 years. But Northwestern officials declared in an election-day letter in the Bulletin that defeating the franchise is but the first step in a carefully conceived plan to drive the company from this city.

Even before the polls opened that May 2, 269 early ballots had ensured a record-breaking turnout for a North Platte special election. When the votes were counted, Northwestern lost by a 2-to-1 margin, 2,417 votes to 1,241. Majorities in every precinct said no.

Negotiations to buy out Northwesterns North Platte electric interests dragged on until Nov. 1, 1940, when the one-year-old Consumers Public Power District  using funds from a $1.8 million revenue bond issue  bought them and reached a lease-purchase agreement to transfer them to the city of North Platte.

Northwestern, currently styled NorthWestern Energy, remains North Plattes natural gas supplier today. But while the city paid Consumers $120,000 a year to retire the bonds, the renamed Municipal Light & Power came under the control of a board of public utilities.

In 1953, the City Council combined the citys electric, water and sewer services into Municipal Light & Water. Consumers gave way in 1970 to NPPD, which continues to supply the electric power distributed by ML&W, a self-supporting enterprise fund under the citys control.

A Gentlemans legacy

For the past four decades, Interstate 80 motorists driving near Sutherland have seen an impressive structure jutting into the sky to their south: the stacks of coal-fired Gerald Gentleman Station, built by NPPD between 1973 and 1982 as a linchpin of its power-generation network serving North Platte and much of Nebraska.

The station, visible 25 miles away and more, brought hundreds of short-term construction jobs to west central Nebraska  as had the Sutherland and Tri-County projects of the 1930s. Its namesake, Gerald Gentleman of North Platte, oversaw the Sutherland Projects construction as secretary and general manager.

He wrote in the Daily Bulletin of June 30, 1939, how he had passed the show window of a North Platte business house and saw the projects proposed layout early in 1933, when the Depression was at its worst.

Its projected $7.5 million cost and 2,000-man workforce impressed me, for at that time business was practically paralyzed, Gentleman wrote. Many men were without work, savings had been used up, store buildings were empty in a great many cases, and most business men in this community and others were struggling desperately to keep their business afloat.

But west central Nebraskans were determined to improve their lives, he added. It was promoted by the people of the valley, he said. It was the people of the valley who interested the Federal Government in the financing of the project. It was the people of the valley who built it, and the measure of success it will attain will be in proportion to the support it receives.

Eighty years after Gentleman wrote those words, his city, county and region  having taken the supply of modern civilizations lifeblood into their hands  continue to reap the benefits.

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Memories of Februarys bitter polar vortex will linger in retail natural gas prices that North Plattes gas provider says will be nearly twice last winters starting point.

The runup offers a timely reminder to make homes as airtight and energy-efficient as possible before snow flies, west central Nebraska gas and electrical suppliers say.

Tighter natural gas supplies after a hotter summer nationwide also are contributing to the highest consumer prices in nearly 15 years, said Luke Hansen, NorthWestern Energys manager of gas supplies.

Theyll average 85% higher this winter for NorthWesterns Nebraska, South Dakota and Montana customers, he said, though more than half of that will go toward gradually recouping the utilitys unexpected costs from the Feb. 5-20 vortex.

These are not unprecedented natural gas prices, but were seeing dramatic increases in prices off the (market) bottom, Hansen said Monday from the utilitys headquarters in Huron, South Dakota.

Last February, the prices we were seeing were about as low as theyd ever been before the extended cold forced rolling electrical blackouts down into Texas and drove open-market gas prices skyward.
Biden defended his record Tuesday night, rehashing some of his old arguments with Trump. He said that while Trump presided over a loss of American jobs, the Biden administration has overseen a surge in job creation, and also touted the strength of the stock market on his watch  a nod to one of Trump's favored metrics for success.

And Biden touted aspects of his infrastructure and social services spending proposals, tying his plans to the need to win next week's elections.

We're on the right track, but we've got more to do," Biden said.

Youngkin's campaign released an ad featuring a mother who years ago sought to have the book Beloved banned from classrooms in suburban Washington. The acclaimed 1987 novel by Nobel laureate Toni Morrison is about an escaped slave who kills her infant daughter rather than allowing the girl to be returned to the plantation.

The mother's advocacy led to state legislation McAuliffe vetoed in 2016 and 2017 that would have let parents opt out of having their children study classroom materials with sexually explicit content.

McAuliffes campaign and fellow Democrats blasted Youngkins ad and accused him of trying to silence Black authors.
SCOTTSBLUFF -- A Bayard rancher has been indicted on four counts of bank fraud after he allegedly defrauded a bank in an attempt to secure more than $11.2 million in loans.

According to an indictment filed in the U.S. District Court in Nebraska, George Liakos, who grew beans, corn and sugar beets in addition to raising cattle, is accused of attempting to defraud Great Western Bank.

The indictment says Liakos, 62, and his wife entered into an agreement with Great Western Bank on or about June 2, 2017, for a revolving loan of credit of $8.5 million, a machinery and equipment loan of more than $1.8 million and a livestock loan for $850,000. The couple granted the bank a security interest in assets and farm products as collateral for the loans.

On Nov. 26, 2018, the parties signed a forbearance agreement, temporarily reducing payment of the amounts due from the June 2017 loan, with interest, and an additional revolving line of credit of $336,000.
Third Annual Program to Recognize Innovation in the Workplace in 17 MENA Nations

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, October 26, 2021--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Stevie Awards has issued a call for entries for the 2022 (third annual) Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, sponsored by the RAK Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Entry kits & complete details on the competition are available at http://MENA.StevieAwards.com.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005667/en/

The Stevie Awards has issued a call for entries for the 2022 (third annual) Middle East & North Africa Stevie Awards, sponsored by the RAK Chamber of Commerce & Industry. (Graphic: Business Wire)

The Middle East Stevie & North Africa Awards are the regions only awards to recognize innovation in all its forms through the workplace. The awards are open to all organizations in 17 nations in the MENA region: Algeria, Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, Turkey, United Arab Emirates & Yemen.

There are no entry fees in this awards program. Individuals & organizations may submit as many nominations as they would like, without cost. Instead, Gold, Silver, & Bronze Stevie Award winners will pay a "winners fee" for each successful nomination.

Nominations may be submitted online through two entry deadlines: November 4, 2021, & January 26, 2022. Winners fees payable will be lower for nominations submitted through the first deadline.

Winners of the Gold, Silver & Bronze Stevie Awards will be announced on March 24, 2022 & celebrated during a gala event in Ras Al Khaimah at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel on May 20.

The competition features two new category groups for 2022. The Video Awards categories will recognize innovation in video productions including design, format, production, distribution, &/or interactivity. The Social Media Awards categories will recognize innovation in social media content creation, moderation, management, & marketing. Virtual events have been newly added to the Events Categories.

Story continues

Nominations citing innovative achievements will be accepted & judged in both Arabic & English in more than 100 categories across the following groups:

Winners of the 2021 edition of the awards included Al Anwar Medical Hospital, Boehringer

The 2022 competition will be judged by more than 150 professionals around the world. Those who wish to apply to participate on one of the juries may do so at https://mena.stevieawards.com/sa-judge/register.

Click here to view the full list of 2021 award winners.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005667/en/

Contacts

May Hassan

may@stevieawards.com
Heres the heart of it: Americans read over the last few months that billionaires were paying little or no taxes for years on end, said Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, helming the effort.

Under Wydens emerging plan, the billionaires tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people. It would require those with assets of more than $1 billion, or three-years consecutive income of $100 million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

A similar billionaires tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires tax rate had not been set, but it was expected to be at least the 20% capital gains rate. Democrats have said it could raise $200 billion in revenue that could help fund Bidens package over 10 years.

Republicans deride the billionaires' tax and some have suggested it would face a legal challenge.

And key fellow Democrats were also raising concerns about the billionaires' tax, saying the idea of simply undoing the 2017 tax cuts by hiking top rates was more straightforward and transparent.
Staff Writer

Brad Hundt came to the Observer-Reporter in 1998 after stints at newspapers in Georgia and Michigan. He serves as editorial page editor, and has covered the arts and entertainment and worked as a municipal beat reporter.
I cannot wait to miss it! 

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tbh, if Jimmy Carr is not in it, what's the point of roasting?





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omg i had never seen this, that was brutal

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omg......... :o I had to google to see if he actually died. D:

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Jesus daaaaaammmn.

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Notice how he never gets pushback on this but incels never shut up about Amy Schumer's Steve-O/Ryan Dunn roast

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This is honestly sick, not funny at all. Fuck this dude for saying that.

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if Nikki Glazer isn't there then throw it in the trash right now

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Lol agreed. Her joke at some roast (I think Alec Baldwin's) about Caitlyn Jenner's Olympic days and how she ran SO fast...away from her first family to be on a TV show utterly killed me

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it was Alec's yeah. And the one about how she's so excited to share the stage with DeNiro 'and by that I mean the final one of your life' LMAO

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Her roast of Ann Coulter was the most brutal most amazing thing

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who asked for this?

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their egos

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the 2008 nostalgia is back a bit too soon

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like a decade ago my uncle held a birthday roast for himself which sounds like a fun idea in theory but it ended up being a compliment fest towards him which i don't think he intended but that's what it was



anyway i feel like this will probably be like that

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My sister would show up so unsure what to say differently she might confuse herself too

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is your uncle michael scott?

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i mean, not far off if im being honest

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this sounds like the ep in New Girl where Winston threw himself a Honey Roast

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These are heavily scripted and the producers know the audience wants blood. The producers also are under pressure to get memeable moments. Expect 1,000,000,000 jokes about how much pussy they got when they were popular etc etc etc

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We we wasnt already having that?

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Honestly thought that was just social media.

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Kenan Thompson of Good Burger fame



no higher honor than that tbh!

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Now that's a roast.

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No, I'm going to GHOST my family, not ROAST them. Get it straight 

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One brother straight, two brothers gay...

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Which one do you think is straight? Nick?

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Ugly Jonas is straight. I think Nick is too.

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Yup.



Saw him in Pavilions West Hollywood shopping with his opposite sex partner. That's enough for me.



Kevin and Joe blow my Gaydar meter off the charts.

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ONTD, how would you roast the Jonas Brothers? And how would your roast your own family?





with lots of garlic

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Lmao, my first thought was with fava beans and a nice Chianti.

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Poor Kevin.



And how would your roast your own family?



Ask them to name one successful marriage in the entire extended family. Quickly.



Edited at 2021-10-26 02:57 am (UTC)

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I don't know what's going to be rougher for Kevin: a bunch of jokes about no one knowing who he is, or no jokes directed at him all night because no one knows who he is.

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If it makes him feel any better, all I know about his brothers is one is married to Priyanka Chopra and the other to the Game of Thrones actress. That is the extent of my Jonas Brothers knowledge.

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who the fuck asked for this

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if we only got what we asked for, everything would suck tbh.

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The voice in your head that you try to ignore.

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Are they really this "relevant" to have this? Why?

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The queer baiting one has been putting out to David Geffen and got him to pull some big strings.

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Roasts are so lazy and mean. I don't like them and I don't think they're funny.



A roast about the Jonas Bros. via Netflix is so bad, but of course it's going to be a thing.

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Roasts are supposed to be mean...

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I don't like things that are mean...

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I like them, but I dont like how theyre often just excuses for men to be disgusting misogynists.



I cant remember whose roast it was (maybe Bruce Willis?), but one of the comics (that predator Ross guy?) went on a sexually graphic rant about his daughter and it was just not funny. It was just gross.



Edit: No I think it was was older Italian American comic, who kinda looks like a mafia boss.



Edited at 2021-10-26 11:01 am (UTC) I like them, but I dont like how theyre often just excuses for men to be disgusting misogynists.I cant remember whose roast it was (maybe Bruce Willis?), but one of the comics (that predator Ross guy?) went on a sexually graphic rant about his daughter and it was just not funny. It was just gross.Edit: No I think it was was older Italian American comic, who kinda looks like a mafia boss.

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They need to do that thing where someone films themselves on a phone saying something like; "The person I'm passing this to dresses like she's still 20." and the next shot is Great-Aunt Edna & so on.

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Senate Confirms President Bidens Choice to Lead OSHA

OSHA has not confirmed a new leader since January 2017.

The U.S. Senate voted 50-41 Monday confirming President Bidens nominee to lead OSHA. According to an article, Douglas Parker, most recently chief of Californias Division of Occupational Safety and Health, was confirmed to be the assistant secretary of labor at the Labor Department, which makes him the leader of the workplace safety agency which has roughly 1,800 employees. Parker previously served as the deputy assistant secretary for policy in the Labor Departments Mine Safety and Health Administration under the Obama administration and was a part of the Biden transition to worker health and safety issues.

I'm very excited, Jordan Barab, OSHA deputy assistant secretary from 2009 to 2017, told Government Executive on Monday. Doug will be a strong advocate for worker safety and health, and he has the experience and expertise to lead OSHA through these challenging times.

This is a crucial moment for OSHA since it is about to release an emergency rule to require companies with 100 or more employees to get vaccinated or require frequent COVID-19 testing. The rule is currently under review by the White Houses Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs. It created extensive backlash from Republican governors and lawmakers.

During his confirmation hearing in May, Parker said that in his previous government roles maintaining a dialog with stakeholders was a top priority and, if confirmed to lead OSHA, he would continue that. We do not have to choose between a strong economy and good, safe jobs; listening to and learning from stakeholders is how we can ensure both, he said.
U.S. Department of Labor Finds Mississippi Concrete Products Manufacturer and Distributor Ignored Safety Measures

OSHA proposes $118K in penalties for Mississippi Limestone Corp. after workers death.

An employer at a Drummonds, TN worksite ignored federal workplace requirements leading to the death of a 67-year-old worker in April 2021, an OSHA investigation found. Investigators determined the employee of Mississippi Limestone Corp., a Friars Point, Mississippi concrete products manufacturer and distributor, was trying to repair a rock hopper of a mobile concrete plant when he became engulfed in rock. OSHA cited the company for not evaluating the workplace to determine that spaces were permit-required confined spaces. Investigators also found the company failed to establish a written permit space program for workers, did not provide employees with adequate training and failed to implement an energy control program for workers conducting maintenance on the plant.

In addition, OSHA cited Mississippi Limestone Corp. for willfully exposing workers to fall hazards by not installing a stair rail system on the open side of the batch plant. Mississippi Limestone also failed to train and evaluate each powered industrial truck operator and to remove unsafe vehicles from service as required, according to a press release. Mississippi Limestone faces $118,200 in proposed penalties.

"Mississippi Limestone's failure to comply with safety and health requirements exposed workers to life-threatening hazards that led to the loss of a man's life," said OSHA Area Director William Cochran in Nashville, Tennessee. "Putting workers' safety and health in jeopardy should never be an option. OSHA will hold employers accountable and ensure they meet their legal obligation to protect workers on the job."
Crude oil production capacity is dwindling globally, and more investments in new production are needed urgently, Aramco's chief executive told Bloomberg.

"It's a huge concern," Amin Nasser said, adding that "If there's aviation pick up next year, that spare capacity will be depleted. It's now getting to a situation where there's limited supply -- whatever is left that's spare is declining rapidly."

The International Energy Agency defines spare oil production capacity as production that can be started within 30 days and sustained for at least 90 days. Aramco is already working on boosting its spare capacity to 13 million bpd over the next five years.

"We maintain 25-year production profiles for new projects. Our philosophy is to provide cleaner oil and gas for the long term. We are developing it for the long term, not the short term," Amin Nasser said earlier this month at the Energy Intelligence Forum, where he announced the capacity boost plan.

Bloomberg noted in its report that oil and gas traders have leveled criticism at governments and activist organizations for calling for an end to new oil and gas exploration, warning this would lead to an energy shortage during the next ten years.

Over the immediate term, however, there is no danger of shortages. In fact, most expect the market to swing into a surplus next year of about 1 million bpd by March 2022. This would compare to a deficit of 1.5 million bpd at the moment.

Just last week, a new report from the UN Environmental Program became the latest in a string of reports calling for the suspension of oil and gas drilling. According to one of the report's authors, "global coal, oil, and gas production must start declining immediately and steeply to be consistent with limiting long-term warming to 1.5C."

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Gas prices in Europe rose on Tuesday as cooler temperatures in most of Western Europe are expected at the beginning of November.

The gains were modest, however, as this weeks weather in the UK and most of Western Europe is expected to be mild, according to Refinitiv Eikon data cited by Reuters.

Next week, colder weather is expected, according to two reports quoted by Bloomberg.

Power prices for next month in France and Germany rose on Tuesday, with the German power price at its highest level since early last week.

Although European and UK gas prices are off the recent records seen at the start of this month, concern about gas supplies with colder weather in the coming weeks continues to prevail on the market. Europes storage facilities are 77 percent fullthe lowest levels of gas in storage in a decade, while Russian gas supplies have not materially increased.

Russia could immediately increase natural gas deliveries to Europe as soon as German authorities approve the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, the Financial Times reported last week, citing President Vladimir Putin as saying gas can be delivered the day after tomorrow if approval was granted tomorrow.

Meanwhile, the EU energy ministers held a meeting on Tuesday to discuss the jump in energy prices and possible mitigating measures at the national and EU level.

Several ministers called on the Commission to clarify the role of natural gas and nuclear energy in the EU taxonomy for sustainable finance, the EU said in a statement after the meeting.

Ministers discussed possible medium and longer-term options, including voluntary joint purchase schemes for gas and EU-level solutions for storage.

On this latter issue, EU ministers have so far failed to reach any agreement.

We will need to assess the advantages and the drawbacks of such a system, EU Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson told reporters after the meeting, as quoted by Reuters.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Western Europes top oil and gas producer, Norway, booked its highest-ever exports in September, and its natural gas exports recorded an all-time high value as Europe is scrambling to secure gas supplies for the winter.

Norways total exports of goods stood at a record-high $15.5 billion (129.5 billion Norwegian crowns) last month, as the value of natural gas exports jumped sevenfold compared to September 2020, Statistics Norway said this month. The record value of gas exports was the result of record prices for the fuel in September and the very low prices in September last year, the statistics office says.

In volumes, Norways natural gas exports rose by 8 percent last month versus September 2020.

Norway, Europes second-largest gas supplier after Russia, is boosting gas deliveries this winter season, after Equinor was allowed to raise gas exports from the Oseberg and Troll fields.

The production permits allow us to produce more gas from these two important fields this fall and through the winter. We believe that this is very timely as Europe is facing an unusually tight market for natural gas, said Helge Haugane, senior vice president Gas & Power.

Crude oil exports out of Norway doubled in value in September compared to the same month last year, as per Statistics Norway data. Crude oil exports, however, dropped in September compared to August 2021.

Going forward, Norway will continue to develop its oil and gas industry under the new minority government led by Labour Party leader Jonas Gahr Stoere.

Norway will continue to grant permits for oil and gas exploration on the Norwegian shelf and will keep the current system of oil auctions, the government says. Over the next four yearsduring the term in office of the governmentmost of the exploration activity will take place in mature areas of the shelf.

We know how important our oil and gas revenues and oil wealth are for welfare development, the new Energy and Petroleum Minister, Marte Mjos Persen, told Bloomberg in an interview this week.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com:
Meatpacking giant Tyson Foods says more than 96% of its workers have been vaccinated ahead of the companys Nov. 1 deadline for them to do so.

The company, based in Springdale, Arkansas, said the number of its 120,000 workers who have been vaccinated has nearly doubled since it announced its mandate on Aug. 3. At that point, only 50% of Tyson workers had been vaccinated.

This is an incredible result  not only for our company, but for your families and our communities across the country,  Tyson President and CEO Donnie King said in a note to employees Tuesday.

The company employs 10,300 workers in Nebraska including at plants in Dakota City, Lexington, Madison and Omaha; those plants also were the source of major COVID-19 outbreaks last year. Tyson also employs workers at Smart Chicken facilities in Waverly and Tecumseh.

Tyson, which has long been dealing with worker shortages, said that employees who dont get vaccinated before the companys deadline will be fired, but that the former employees will be welcomed back if they do get vaccinated later.

Id also like to say to those who remain unvaccinated  this is your choice, and we respect that choice, King said. If you change your mind and want to rejoin Tyson  let us know. Our doors are open.
Local

Nebraska marks fourth straight week of slow decline in COVID cases, hospitalizations

Nebraska marked its fourth straight week of a slow decline in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations last week, with the states numbers continuing to descend from this summers delta plateau.

The state recorded 3,756 new cases for the week ending Thursday, down 9% from 4,144 cases the week before, according to a World-Herald analysis of federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. Thats down from the 5,300 weekly cases the state saw this summer.

Total hospitalizations because of COVID were down to 361 from 398 the previous week. The decline caused Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts to announce last week that the state would scale back its release of COVID-19 data, updating the information weekly rather than daily and not including county-specific data.

The Governors Office said in a press release at the time that the change was being made because hospitalizations due to the coronavirus have dropped below 10% of the states total staffed hospital beds, a threshold Ricketts set in September.

Ricketts also addressed the change at a press conference Monday.

Ricketts: Nebraska to scale back release of COVID data, elective surgeries can resume Nebraska will scale back its release of COVID data, updating the information weekly rather than daily and not including county-specific data, Gov. Pete Ricketts announced on Thursday.

That really just reflects the needs right now that we have here in the state, he said. We are looking to get back to normal, folks, right? And so, all of our (directed health measures), executive orders, and everything  were really tied to what level of hospital capacity we have here in the state of Nebraska.

The state retired the dashboard entirely June 30, after Ricketts ended the states COVID-19 state of emergency. State officials then started reporting a limited amount of data each week.

When hospitalizations were rising in September, Ricketts reinstated a version of the dashboard focused on hospital capacity, prompting praise from health care officials who said it would make it easier for them to plan and manage outbreaks. At the time, an average of nearly 400 hospital beds were occupied by COVID patients on any given day.

Were just remaining consistent with what we were doing earlier, he said Monday, noting that hospitals dont plan their staffing on a daily basis and therefore dont need daily information. So, providing it weekly is sufficient. And, yeah, it just also gets back to the nature of the staffing emergency is decreasing as we have more capacity.

But Dr. James Lawler, a co-executive director of the University of Nebraska Medical Centers Global Center for Health Security, said hospitalizations are affected by virus transmission occurring three to four weeks beforehand.

Even with the dashboard up and running, he said, health officials still were missing a lot in understanding the community burden of COVID because testing is less available and less readily obtained in rural areas of the state.

There is never a right time to blindfold yourself in an emergency, Lawler said, and we are far from the end of the pandemic emergency.

COVID vaccine shots available around Omaha this week People who want to get COVID-19 vaccine shots can get them this week at clinics around Omaha.

Several health departments outside the Omaha and Lincoln areas already have posted that they no longer will provide county-level data because of the change.

A breakdown of CDC data indicates that an average of just over 500 mostly unvaccinated Nebraskans a day are testing positive for the virus, 40 are landing in hospitals and six are dying.

The state added 41 deaths last week, the second straight week that reported deaths have topped 40. Reported deaths, however, usually come in clusters as health officials confirm them. The states confirmed and suspected death toll for the pandemic now is approaching 3,000.

Meanwhile, all but a half-dozen states are seeing declining cases. Nebraskas current per-capita new case rate is about 25% above the U.S. average and ranks 22nd-highest among states.

Nebraska has reported a total of 279,450 cases of COVID-19 during the pandemic, according to the CDC.

The U.S. as a whole averaged 78,000 new cases a day last week, less than half the average of 162,000 new cases a day on Sept. 1.

Some 37,000 doses of vaccine were administered in Nebraska last week, roughly half of them booster shots. In all, 55.9% of Nebraskans are fully vaccinated, a figure below the 57.4% U.S. rate.

Douglas County officials getting ready to give COVID shots to kids Pediatricians' offices and some pharmacies and schools in Douglas County are likely to be offering COVID shots for kids, pending an expected government OK.

Only 46% of Nebraskans ages 12 to 17 have gotten shots so far, despite being eligible for months. Just under 50% of youths in that age group have gotten the shots nationwide.

That may have implications for the rollout of vaccines to younger children, which is expected to come early next month.

A panel of outside advisers to the Food and Drug Administration is expected to weigh in Tuesday on Pfizers application seeking authorization of that two-dose vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11. The FDA typically follows the panels advice but is not required to do so.

Advisers to the CDC are slated to provide recommendations at a meeting Nov. 2 and Nov. 3.

Nebraska health officials are making plans to provide the shots.

Dr. Anne OKeefe, the Douglas County Health Departments senior epidemiologist, said organizations that already are authorized to give the vaccine will be able to order the child version. It will come with different dosages, dilution requirements and storage conditions than the version given to youths and adults.

The Health Department likely will offer the vaccine at its clinics once it is approved, OKeefe said. Its also expected to be available in some pediatricians offices and pharmacies.

World-Herald Staff Writer Sara Gentzler contributed to this report.
Papillion La Vista school board members approved a plan Monday to phase out the district's mask mandate starting this week.

The district is one of several Omaha-area districts planning to ease up on masking in the next few weeks, as case numbers permit.

Vaccinations have been available to teenagers since May, and as of this week, 64% of Douglas County children ages 12 to 17 have had at least one shot and 58% have had two shots, according to the Douglas County Health Department.

Annette Eyman, spokeswoman for the Papillion La Vista Community Schools, said that among Sarpy County youths ages 12 to 18 who are vaccinated, 74% are high school age.

Under the Papillion La Vista plan, the district's two high schools will switch to recommended masking Wednesday, with lower grades considered for a change later if all goes well.

"I'm going to support this tonight, even though it doesn't go as far as I would like," board member Valerie Fisher said. "But I do think it's a good start ... to get us back to where we can be mask-optional."

Board member SuAnn Witt said she liked the plan but opposed the timing.
Twenty-four years ago today, snowed-in residents in the Omaha area began to dig out from a severe storm that caused record power outages in Omaha and damaged many of its trees.

Tops and limbs of towering maples, oaks and other trees snapped under the weight of the 9.2 inches of snow that had fallen overnight. The downed trees and limbs damaged houses and cars, blocked streets and left ugly, jagged stubs poking into the blue sky.

Cracking like rifle shots in the early-morning darkness, trees heavy with fall foliage split, buckled and crashed to the ground in booming sprays of timber, blue-white flashes of arcing electrical lines and powdery avalanches of heavy, wet snow.

As the trees and limbs fell in the Omaha area, they knocked down power lines by the hundreds. Fred Petersen, then-president of the Omaha Public Power District, said the outages were the worst that anyone at OPPD could remember in 50 years.

Nearly 300,000 homes and businesses in Nebraska and Iowa lost power from the storm, which cost more than $50 million to clean up. Outages were estimated at 150,000 in OPPD's service area. At the time, it was OPPD's biggest storm ever.

The storm began on Oct. 25, when the heavy rain that had fallen throughout the day turned into snow before midnight.
There is never a right time to blindfold yourself in an emergency, Lawler said, and we are far from the end of the pandemic emergency.

Several health departments outside the Omaha and Lincoln areas already have posted that they no longer will provide county-level data because of the change.

A breakdown of CDC data indicates that an average of just over 500 mostly unvaccinated Nebraskans a day are testing positive for the virus, 40 are landing in hospitals and six are dying.

The state added 41 deaths last week, the second straight week that reported deaths have topped 40. Reported deaths, however, usually come in clusters as health officials confirm them. The states confirmed and suspected death toll for the pandemic now is approaching 3,000.

Meanwhile, all but a half-dozen states are seeing declining cases. Nebraskas current per-capita new case rate is about 25% above the U.S. average and ranks 22nd-highest among states.

Nebraska has reported a total of 279,450 cases of COVID-19 during the pandemic, according to the CDC.

The U.S. as a whole averaged 78,000 new cases a day last week, less than half the average of 162,000 new cases a day on Sept. 1.
Sahl became famous in 1953 at San Franciscos hungry i (the i stood for intellectual), the perfect place for a comedian of his type. The city was a meeting ground for beatniks and college activists, and they crowded into the tiny club to hear someone who spoke to their disdain for the status quo. Word spread quickly about the young comedian with the distinctive style. Soon Sahl was earning $7,500 a week at nightclubs across the nation and appearing on television with Steve Allen and Jack Paar. He made the cover of Time magazine in 1960 and was profiled in The New Yorker.

A new generation of comedians, including Bill Cosby, George Carlin and the team of Mike Nichols and Elaine May, was inspired by Sahl. David Letterman continued the iconoclastic tradition, and more recently Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert and John Oliver. Woody Allen would liken his work to the jazz of Charlie Parker and reviewers compared him to Will Rogers, who had tweaked politicians in a gentler manner.

I dont have the image of myself as a comedian, Sahl himself said. I never said I was one. I just sort of tell the truth and everybody breaks up along the way.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A California police officer was convicted Tuesday of assault with a firearm in the 2018 fatal shooting of an unarmed mentally ill man who was shot nine times while driving away from police in a wealthy San Francisco suburb.

An attorney for the man's family called it a major step forward in holding law enforcement accountable.

After deliberating barely two days, the jury delivered a split verdict in the case against Officer Andrew Hall, who now faces up to 17 years in prison. They agreed Hall was guilty of the felony charge of wrongfully firing his gun in the death of 33-year-old Laudemer Arboleda.

But the jury deadlocked on another and more serious count of voluntary manslaughter. Halls sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 14, according to the Contra Costa County district attorneys office, which says it is deciding whether to pursue a retrial on the manslaughter charge.

The case marked the first time a police officer was charged in an on-duty shooting in Contra Costa County, east of San Francisco, and is part of a push by more prosecutors to punish police misconduct after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis set off nationwide calls for social justice.
A 19-year-old man from Fairbury, Nebraska, has been found guilty of causing the death of a 2-year-old boy.

On Monday, a Jefferson County District Court jury found Jake J. Gonzalez guilty of child abuse resulting in death and making terroristic threats. He will be sentenced in January and faces life in prison.

Jefferson County sheriffs deputies were called to a Fairbury apartment Feb. 26 after a woman called to say she needed an ambulance for her son. Deputies said Gonzalez was at the apartment when the call was made.

Deputies tried to speak with the woman alone, but Gonzalez tried to follow. He then fled from the scene, evading deputies who chased after him.

One of the deputies followed the woman into the apartments bedroom, where he saw two mattresses on the floor and a closed closet door. Inside the closet was a young child, face down on the floor.

According to an affidavit, the child was dressed only in a diaper. He had visible bruising on the back of his head, arms, back and legs. The boy was lethargic and poorly responsive and had difficulty breathing. He also had two black eyes, consistent with a skull fracture, as well as bruising to the lips, side of the head, chest and abdomen.
LINCOLN  State Sen. Patty Pansing Brooks, a Lincoln attorney, will announce her candidacy soon for the 1st Congressional District seat held by U.S. Rep. Jeff Fortenberry, R-Neb., a Democratic Party official said Monday.

Pansing Brooks, who is prevented from seeking a third term in the Nebraska Legislature because of term limits, will bring dignity and a record of accomplishment to the race, said Jane Kleeb, chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party.

Nebraskans certainly dont like people who lie about campaign contributions and lie to the FBI, Kleeb said.

That was a reference to a federal indictment issued last week for Fortenberry for allegedly misleading investigators probing illegal campaign conduit contributions funneled from a Nigerian billionaire.

Fortenberry, 60, has represented eastern Nebraskas 1st District since 2005. He has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty, though its unclear if he can survive the damage to his reputation from being indicted for three felonies.

Andy Braner, a spokesman for the Fortenberry campaign, said Monday that the congressman looks forward to continuing his work for Nebraska and America.

He added that Fortenberry continues to receive strong support.
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Poland's ruling party leader presented plans Tuesday for a homeland defense bill which he said is aimed at radically strengthening the military as the country faces migration pressure from its eastern neighbor Belarus.

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the deputy prime minister who is undisputedly the most powerful politician in Poland, said the bill is needed due to a deteriorating international situation and also to Poland's geopolitical location. Examples he gave included neighboring Russia's imperial ambitions and the hybrid warfare being waged by Belarus against Poland and other European Union nations using migrants.

"If we want to avoid the worst, that is war, we have to act according to the old rule: If you want peace, prepare for war, Kaczynski said at a news conference in Warsaw.

He argued that, as a country which lies on the eastern flank of the European Union and NATO, Poland must have a serious deterrent force and the ability to effectively defend itself for a long time on its own.

He noted NATO decisions take time to implement.
LONDON (AP)  Queen Elizabeth II has canceled her planned appearance at the U.N. climate conference in Glasgow, accepting doctors' advice to rest just days after spending the night in a hospital for tests.

The 95-year-old monarch announced Tuesday that she has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the reception on Nov. 1  a move that will dash the hopes of Britain's Conservative government, which is anxious to show the importance of the session to the fate of the planet. The climate conference runs from Oct. 31 to Nov. 12 and her attendance was meant to kick it off in style and splendor.

Her Majesty is disappointed not to attend the reception but will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded video message, Buckingham Palace said.

The news came after the sovereign held virtual audiences Tuesday at Windsor Castle  the first since revelations that her doctors ordered her to rest last week.

The sovereign greeted the ambassadors from South Korea and Switzerland during her first technology-aided appearance since she was driven to Londons King Edward VIIs Hospital on Oct. 20 for preliminary investigations. She returned to her Windsor Castle home at lunchtime the next day and has been taking on light duties since.
Kingwoods first village, Trailwood, to plant trees for 50th birthday

Kingwood native Clay Lawson has 250 trees to plant in Trailwood Village  and he would like help planting them.

The tree planting, officially known as Trees for Trailwood, is set for Saturday, Nov. 6 at the Trailwood Village Pool Park. It is the grand finale celebrating the 50th birthday of Trailwood Village, Kingwoods first village.

This is a family-friendly event, said Lawson, who is president of the Trailwood Village Community Association which is sponsoring the celebration. Our goal is to plant 250 trees throughout Trailwood Village parks and greenbelts.

Lawson and the board want this to be a community event and are encouraging Trailwood Village families to help plant the trees Nov. 6, the day after Texas Arbor Day, always the first Friday in November,   and always the best time to plant trees in Lake Houston, Lawson said.

A bonus for participating is that Lawson and the association board will give away 75 trees to Trailwood residents who are willing to plant them in their own yards.

The trees that Lawson and the Trailwood family will plant come from Trees for Houston, a nonprofit agency founded in 1983 that has grown, planted, and maintained thousands of trees across the greater Houston region, now including Kingwood.

Well be replacing the less desirable Chinese Tallow, which is known as the most invasive plant species in this area because they grow rapidly and quickly dominate and overtake wherever they are, explained Lawson.

What kind of trees will be planted? The board brought in Mickey Merritt, regional community forester with the Texas A&M Forest Service, and based on his recommendations, Trailwood will be overflowing with American elms, American sycamore, bald cypress, live oak, loblolly pine, red maple, shumard oak, pecan, crepe myrtle, redbud, dogwood and river birch,

The tree planting is the culmination of multiple events the board organized to recreate a sense of community among Trailwood residents.

We moved here in 1974 when I was 18 months old, so I really havent known any other place, said Lawson. Both he and his wife, Mimi, grew up in Kingwood, graduated from Kingwood High, spent time in downtown Houston and on the west side before returning to Kingwood to raise their family.

When we were growing up, there were just a couple of villages, one middle school and one high school. So much smaller, he recalled. Chances were, you knew everyone you saw.

Lawson and the board want to recreate that feeling of community, so they invested $136,000 in refreshing the Trailwood pool and park. They celebrated in September with an end of summer party at the pool serving fresh-off-the-grill hot dogs and Popsicles. They followed that Oct. 5 with a National Night Out at the Pool event, serving lite bites and hosting local first responders.

Lawson remembers when he and his friends rode their bikes on the circular cement enclosure at Village Green Park that once surrounded a fountain. The fountain is long gone and many of the trees were lost during the 2011 drought, but the board  and Trailwood Village residents  will be reforesting the area with three-gallon trees.

Volunteers also will reforest Trailwood Pool Park, Tangle Lake Park, the common areas along Woodland Hills Drive, the greenbelt corridor and the yards of residents and homeowners who volunteer to plant the free trees in their own yards.

We want to restore that community feeling that so many of us remember while we restore the forest  the livable forest that Kingwood is known for, said Lawson.

Join the fun planting trees Nov. 6, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sign up to plant a couple of trees, then take one home, trailwoodvillage.org/news.
Twomey resigns from Humble ISD school board

Humble ISD school board member Lori Twomey announced her resignation at the October board meeting.

After a standing ovation, the board presented her with a crystal keepsake. First elected in 2019, she is moving to Oklahoma.

The board members begrudgingly approved her resignation with sad sentiments such as words from board member Robert Sitton, From the time I met you, you have become more than just a board member. I call you my friend.

Robert Scarfo continued these thoughts by stating, You will be sorely missed. Many changes have come about because of your dedication and research.

The board decided to open the seat up for applications due to the timing and inability to hold an election before the expiration for replacement and time remaining on the term. The chosen individual will serve until May 2023. The application process will be open until 5 p.m. on Nov. 2. Applications can be found at humbleisd.net/cms/lib/TX01001414/Centricity/Domain/3/Application_for_HumbleISD_BoardofTrustee_Appointment_2021.pdf.

Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Fagen continued after each board member congratulated Twomey with, I know the district and our learners are in a better place because of your advocacy, patience and regard for each one of our students.

The meeting continued with the Inspiring Moments video which featured the Mosaic Program. This program is targeted to transitional students to bridge the gap between student life and adult learning. The special kids of the program are prepared for life outside the classroom by gaining skills they will use the rest of their life.

Fagen said, Be sure to check out the Mosaic Store. They have dish towels and unique items that you are sure to love. I have made these items a part of my home and think about these students regularly.

Sitton thanked the participants of the video of which several were in attendance.

Id like to continue the positive remarks of the meeting by stating that Humble ISD is a place in which we celebrate excellence. There are so many exciting things happening within our district. Thanks also to all teachers of the Mosaic Program.

Jerri Monbaron, director of community development, recognized the secondary teachers of the year. In next months meeting, we will recognize the elementary school teachers of the year.

To round out the meeting, the board voted to approve Option 3 for the HHS Complex Detention Pond Project, keeping in mind the partnership with Harris County Precinct 4 and all interlocal agreements.

This area is set to be a place of beautification and education. The plans include a probable dragonfly habitat, fitness track and classroom learning opportunities.

All board members wore a pink ribbon to support Breast Cancer Awareness Month. October is Wear Pink month. Position 3 Board Member Chris Parker stated, It was great to see the pink ribbon accordingly at Turner Stadium for the Pink Out game.

All citizens are formally invited to donate to or walk in the Heart Walk Saturday, Oct. 30 at Lone Star College at 20000 Kingwood Drive from 8-10 a.m. For more information about this event, see humbleisd.net/heartwalk.

The next regularly-scheduled meeting is planned for Nov. 10 at 7 p.m. at the Humble ISD Administration Building.
Three HCP4 officers brutally ambushed, resulting in the death of Dep. Kareem Atkins

In the early morning of Oct. 16, three Harris County Precinct 4 deputies were tragically ambushed by a gunman, resulting in the death of Deputy Kareem Atkins, who perished from his injuries.

Deputies Juqaim Barthen, 26, and Darrell Garrett, 28, were both wounded in the shooting. Barthen had just joined Precinct 4 in September 2019. Garrett joined in March 2018.

According to Constable Mark Herman, the circumstances unfolded during the middle of the night; the deputies were working an extra shift at 45 Norte Bar and responded to a report of a robbery in the parking lot at 2:12 a.m. Garrett and Atkins responded to the report and attempted to arrest a robbery suspect, but the gunman opened fire behind the officers, shooting both. Barthen heard the shots and rushed outside to aid the two downed officers, but he was also shot. The gunman used an AR-15 in the vicious attack.

A $75,000 reward is currently outstanding for information leading to the arrest of the attacker. Crime Stoppers donated $10,000 to the award and Houston businessman Tilman Fertitta, with the help of an anonymous donor, donated $65,000.

Garrett was seriously injured. He was immediately transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital in downtown Houston, where he underwent surgery. His fiance, Lajah Richardson, stated that both of his kidneys and gallbladder were removed and one of the bullets struck his spine. In the future, a kidney transplant will be needed. Sadly, it had just been a week since Richardson and Garrett had become engaged.

Barthen was shot in the leg and is currently recovering from his injuries at home.

Atkins is survived by his widow, 2-year-old daughter and 2-month-old baby; he had just returned from paternity leave before the nights tragic events.

Richardson described the three officers as brothers who did everything together. The three had been close for a long time, and they shared a close friendship both inside and outside of work.

On Oct. 16, Atkins body was transported to the Texas Medical Examiners office. Law enforcement agencies from across Harris County participated in the procession.

Deputies Atkins, Garrett and Barthen are true law enforcement heroes that were cowardly ambushed while serving and protecting their community. I am asking for all our communitys thoughts and prayers for their families. My main concern right now are the families of the three officers involved and getting them the immediate care and support that they are going to need, said Herman.

Upon receiving Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgos request, Gov. Greg Abbott permitted Texas flags in Harris County to be lowered to half-staff in honor of Atkins. Abbott stated that flags may remain at half-staff until the end of the day of Atkins final interment. Individuals, businesses, municipalities, counties and other entities in the area may fly flags at half-staff for the same period as a sign of honor and respect.

In a letter to Hidalgo, Abbott stated, The first lady and I extend our prayers of comfort to the Atkins family during their time of grief, and we urge all Texans to remember and honor Deputy Constable Atkinss public service as a dedicated law enforcement officer.

On Oct. 17, law enforcement agencies moved Atkins body from the medical examiners office to the Klein Funeral Home in Tomball, Texas. The visitation and funeral service was held Oct. 25 at Champions Forest Baptist Church with burial at Klein Memorial Park Cemetery.

The 100 Club, which supports the dependents of law enforcement officers and firefighters killed or seriously injured in the line of duty, met with fallen Atkins wife and family members, and provided a $20,000 check to assist with immediate expenses. Herman provided the family with a personal $10,000 check. The Texas Municipal Police Association gave Atkins' widow a check for $15,000.

One can donate to The 100 Club (The100Club.org) or to one of three verified Go Fund Me pages to support the deputies:

gofundme.com/f/helping-deputy-kareem-atkins-family?utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheet&utm_medium=copy_link_all&utm_source=customer

gofundme.com/f/darryl-garretts-blue-angels

gofundme.com/f/harris-county-deputy-j-barthen?qid=8503544200f689da8e075223b38c47a1

The case remains under investigation by the Houston Police Department. Anyone with information regarding the shooting is urged to report it to the HPD Homicide Division at 713-308-3600 or Crime Stoppers of Houston at 713-222-TIPS.
NORMAL  Several Illinois State University student groups, faculty members and local activists groups are calling for the cancellation of classes ahead of a march for grad student Jelani Day, whose disappearance and death have drawn international attention.

The move would provide "the space to not only keep Jelani and his family in our thoughts but to take action that comes together to not only support but demand justice for Jelani Day," said a statement signed by 12 representatives of student organizations and community activist groups, as well as 30 ISU faculty members.

The remains of Day, who was last seen Aug. 24 in Bloomington, were found in the Illinois River on Sept. 4. Authorities on Sept. 23 said the body was that of Day.

Day, of Danville, 25, was a graduate student at ISU. His case has brought widespread media attention and questions about what led to the death.

A multi-jurisdictional task force including the Illinois State Police, the Bloomington and Peru police departments, LaSalle County's sheriff's and coroner's offices, and the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit are conducting an investigation into what led to the death.

Provost Aondover Tarhule issued an email to the ISU campus encouraging students who are interested in attending the march to contact their instructors and "explore the possibility of missing class." Faculty are also asked to work with students who request to participate in the march.

"Given the timing of the march, it may not be possible for alternative arrangements to be made in lieu of attending class," Tarhule said in the email.

He added, "We recognize that our students as well as faculty and staff continue to experience the impact of the tragedy that faced our campus this fall with Jelani Day's untimely death."

On Tuesday, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr. will lead a march starting at noon outside the Peru Police Department, 2650 N. Peoria St. The event was organized by the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, a nonprofit organization founded by Jackson.

Jackson, who attended Day's burial service last week in Danville, also spoke to ISU's Black Student Union Monday evening. Members of Day's family, including his mother, Carmen Bolden Day, also joined the students.

"I'm glad you are here tonight, concerned about someone other than yourself," Jackson said to the students.

Heaven Moore, president of the ISU Black Student Union, in a statement said that the LaSalle County, Peru and Bloomington police departments "need to know that they need to hold themselves accountable to make sure that we are people who are deserving to have safety and protection."

She added that the departments "need to do a better job" in their efforts to resolve the case to provide Day's family closure.

"Our campus has been impacted greatly by the loss and murder of Jelani Day, specifically the Black students on our campuses have expressed great concerns, sadness, fear, a variety of emotions," Christa Platt, director of the ISU Multicultural Center, said in a Monday news release.

The Rainbow PUSH Coalition had planned a bus from the Chicago area but canceled it, as Jackson and other organizers were staying the night in Bloomington-Normal.

Protesters will march from the Peru Police Department to the Illinois Valley YMCA, 300 Walnut Drive, Peru, which is located near a wooded area where police found Day's missing car.

The Peru Police Department released a route for the march on its Facebook page. According the post, the march will head south on North Peoria Street from the Police Department, then turn east to Putnam Street, and then head south toward Water Street.

A prayer service will be conducted at Water Street.

Anyone with information about the case should contact the LaSalle County Sheriff's Office at 815-433-2161.

Connor Wood, of The Pantagraph, contributed to this report.

Contact Sierra Henry at 309-820-3234. Follow her on Twitter: @pg_sierrahenry.

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BLOOMINGTON  Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe plans to nominate a Bloomington business owner to an empty seat on the council, his first appointment to the nine-member board since being elected last spring.

"After much consideration, conversation and consultation, I have asked De Urban if she will fill the seat," Mwilambwe said in a statement on Friday. "As a local business owner and community member, De will be an advocate and voice for Ward 6."

Messages left with Mwilambwe and Urban Friday night were not immediately returned.

The position has been empty since Ald. Jenn Carrillo stepped down Aug. 30, touching off a process that has become divisive at times. Carrillo had served two years of a four-year term, but resigned after being unable to find new housing with ward boundaries.

City officials in August said at least 10 residents would be interviewed for the position, including Urban. Residents had until Aug. 13 to submit applications.

Several residents during a council meeting this month criticized Mwilambwe about the selection process. There was also speculation he was considering former council member Karen Schmidt, who represented the ward for 20 years but lost in 2019 to Carrillo.

Under city code, the vacancy must be filled by Oct. 30, or 60 days after Carrillo's last day. The seat represents portions of downtown and west Bloomington.

Mwilambwe was elected in April after serving on the council since 2011.

The council is expected to consider the nomination during its meeting at 6 p.m. Monday in room 402 of the Government Center, 115 E. Washington St., Bloomington.

Contact Sierra Henry at 309-820-3234. Follow her on Twitter: @pg_sierrahenry.

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BLOOMINGTON  In a tie-breaking vote, De Urban was appointed to represent Ward 6 on the Bloomington City Council Monday, ending a nearly two-month vacancy on the nine-member council and a contentious process to fill the seat.

Mayor Mboka Mwilambwe nominated Urban to the role on Friday. On Monday, Ald. Jamie Mathy, Julie Emig, Mollie Ward, and Jeff Crabill voted against the appointment, following a 30-minute public comment period in which several Ward 6 residents spoke out against the selection.

Mwilambwe cast the tie-breaking vote, and Urban was sworn into the position.

"I need to be a voice for the people of Ward 6 no matter whose voice that is," Urban said prior to the vote.

Urban is on the West Bloomington Revitalization Project board of directors. The project hosts several programs in the community aimed at economic development, housing, and education. She is also an owner of Alley Kats Art and Antiques in Bloomington. Urban also serves on the city Cannabis Task Force.

The seat represents portions of downtown and west Bloomington.

The position has been open since Ald. Jenn Carrillo stepped down Aug. 30 after serving two years of a four-year term. Under city code, the vacancy was required to be filled by Saturday, or 60 days after Carrillo's last day.

Several residents have criticized Mwilambwe about the selection process following speculation that he was considering appointing former council member Karen Schmidt, who represented the ward for 20 years but lost to Carrillo in 2019.

Carrillo, who resigned after having moving out of the ward, confronted Mwilambwe during the public comment portion of the meeting Monday night. Carrillo said previous mayors historically sought input from an outgoing council member about who to appoint, but Mwilambwe sought to "exclude me from the process."

Carrillo said the administration has "backed the council into a corner by running down the clock on this appointment."

Carrillo, a socialist, said there should have been more of an effort to pick someone who embodies the same values that voters supported in the 2019 election. Instead, the nominee is "radical opposite of what the people of Ward 6 fairly and democratically elected," Carrillo said.

"Shame on you, mayor," Carrillo said.

Other residents reiterated her points, stating the council should appoint a representative who matched Carrillo's politics.

"Ward 6 elected a socialist," said Matthew Toczko. "They elected a Black Lives Matter, pro-pot socialist to represent them in a free and fair election. You've done nothing but disregard the will of the voters throughout this entire process."

Ward, Crabill, Mathy and Emig all said they would vote against the nomination after hearing the concerns raised by Ward 6 residents.

"I think some of the comments that have been made about her (Urban) are incorrect and disrespectful," said Mathy. "That being said, right now I'm not going to vote for De. I don't think it's what Ward 6 is looking for, and I don't think it's the best path."

Crabill said, "The voters elected a progressive person of color in 2019, and we should put that type of person in office."

Urban told The Pantagraph before the vote that her goal is to serve residents.

"Where I stand is with my people in Ward 6, those of us who are a flat tire away from poverty," she said. "This is not a political game to me."

Editor's note: This story has been updated to reflect that Carrillo is not a member of the Democrat Socialists of America.

Contact Sierra Henry at 309-820-3234. Follow her on Twitter: @pg_sierrahenry.

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Illinois lawmakers return to the Capitol on Tuesday for the final days of their fall session facing an agenda that includes a new congressional map, tightening coronavirus testing, masking and vaccine mandate rules and a possible expansion of abortion rights.

The chief task of the scheduled three-day session is approving a map drawing 17 new U.S. House boundaries for the state to reflect population changes from the 2020 federal census. Illinois lost population for the first time in its history and is losing one of its congressional seats starting with next years midterm elections.

A revised map from Democrats will get its first legislative hearings Tuesday. The map, released Saturday, could increase the partys advantage over Republicans in the U.S. House from the current 13-5 to 14-3. It also would create a potential second Latino district, reflecting the communitys growth in Illinois, that would stretch from Chicago westward into DuPage County.

The proposal puts two suburban Democrats into one district  first-term U.S. Rep. Marie Newman of La Grange against two-term U.S. Rep. Sean Casten of Downers Grove. It also sets up two potential Republican primary contests for incumbents. U.S. Rep. Adam Kinzinger of Channahon was put in a district with U.S. Rep. Darin LaHood. Further downstate, freshman U.S. Rep. Mary Miller of Oakland was drawn into a district with U.S. Rep. Mike Bost of Murphysboro.

The latest map could still be revised before it is placed before lawmakers for a final vote. Democrats control the Illinois House and Senate as well as the governors office, meaning they can approve a new map without any Republican input. Thats what happened last month with the adoption of new state legislative boundaries.

As is the case with the legislative maps, which face a federal court challenge, a lawsuit opposing the new congressional boundaries is likely.

In other potential action, Gov. J.B. Pritzker, who has made his handling of the pandemic a core issue in his reelection campaign, is pushing for lawmakers to tighten up an existing state law that some public workers have sought to use to skirt COVID-19 mandates.

The states Health Care Right of Conscience Act was intended for health care workers to be able to avoid certain health care issues and services for moral or religious reasons. But some courts have ruled in favor of employees who cited the right of conscience exemption to avoid testing, masking or vaccine mandates. The Pritzker administration has said the law is being interpreted incorrectly.

Still to be decided is whether abortion-rights advocates in the Democratic majority have the votes to repeal a 1995 law that requires parents to be notified when a minor under 18 seeks an abortion.

The parental notification law is one of the last major restrictions on the procedure in a state that has codified a womans fundamental right to an abortion. The move to repeal it is in part a response to the tightening of abortion laws in states like Texas, which now essentially prohibits abortions as early as six weeks of pregnancy.

Advocates to repeal the law say it poses a danger to minors who come from unsafe family situations. But abortion opponents note parental permission is required in Illinois for a minor to get a tattoo or body piercing or to get over-the-counter medication from a school nurse.

Another measure that could be considered is a change to a legislation that passed this spring and was subsequently signed into law by Pritzker that would put a fully elected school board in place in Chicago in January 2027.

Under a proposed amendment to the law, Chicagos mayor would be able to make 10 appointments to the board and choose its president without having to seek City Council approval. Previously, the bill required her appointments to be approved by aldermen, which Lightfoot opposed.

The Pritzker administration also is seeking approval of a package of tax credits and incentives to encourage more manufacturing of electric vehicles and their components in the state, following in the wake of the interest in vehicles being produced by Rivian in the former Mitsubishi Motors plant in Normal.

The proposed Reimagining Electric Vehicles in Illinois Act, or the REV act, would provide for tax credits for large business development and allow businesses to claim some if not all of income tax withholdings attributable to new employees. It also would provide for construction job credits for building facilities, create a streamlined permitting process and establishes a state government procurement price preference for electric vehicles built in Illinois.

Chicago Tribunes Jeremy Gorner contributed from Springfield.

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100 years ago

Oct. 26, 1921: John McBarnes, who was putting up the money for the McBarnes Memorial Building in downtown Bloomington, died at his home near Holder. He was a prominent farmer whose last public act was to give $150,000 for construction of the building. McBarnes suffered a stroke.

75 years ago

Oct. 26, 1946: Three people were killed in a car-truck crash on Route 66 between Lexington and Towanda. All the dead are from Chicago. Three others were hurt, including one man who was assisting rescue workers. Police say the wreck occurred as the car tried to pass the truck.

50 years ago

Oct. 26, 1971: IWU President Robert Eckley produced a list of five objectives for the university to meet by 1976. Overall, they are designed to lessen Wesleyans dependence on student tuition and fees while making moderate improvements to the campus infrastructure.

25 years ago

Oct. 26, 1996: Saybrook farmer Shaun Foutch discovered a wounded bald eagle in a field and turned it over to Dr. Shawn Hohulin in Normal. Hohulin has been treating the eagles neurologically damaged wing and its hunger and thirst. Both men are hoping the bird recovers.

Compiled by Jack Keefe; jkeefe@coldwellhomes.com.
A first-of-its-kind proposal from Democratic lawmakers to tax U.S. billionaires on the assets they own is expected to face challenges from the super-rich, and be tough to implement, say tax experts and investors.



The proposal, set to be unveiled as soon as Tuesday, would require roughly 700 U.S. billionaires to pay taxes annually when their stocks and some other assets increase in value, according to people familiar with the matter.



Currently, such taxes are only due when the stocks are sold.



House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi says Democrats hope the plan would raise as much as $250 billion to help pay for expanding the social safety net and tackling climate change.



The provisions may be tough to implement even if they become law. Experts say some billionaires will shift their wealth away from assets that are easily tracked and taxed under the new rules to ones that are not. They also warn that a sharp market decline could give billionaires a new tax break.



"It's a stupid idea," said billionaire Leon Cooperman, an investor who warned such a law could cause "unnatural" economic reactions. "The progressives are out to lunch."



But Gabriel Zucman, a University of California at Berkeley economics professor whose research on the subject helped inspire Democratic tax proposals, said that "billionaires have lower taxes than the middle class" as a percentage of their income.



"It would be historic. It would be the most progressive tax ever," Zucman said.



Getting billionaires to pony up may be one of the ideas capable of uniting Democrats, who are trying to resolve other ideological disputes over what should be in their social spending package. The bill is a signature policy for President Joe Biden and is likely to be valued at $1.5 trillion or more over 10 years.



Biden backs taxing the wealthy and corporations more heavily and has privately supported the proposal focused on taxing billionaires, according to a person familiar with his thinking.



Democratic Senator Joe Manchin, a centrist with a virtual veto over Biden's agenda in the evenly divided Senate, said on Monday: "I'm open to any type of thing that makes people pay that's not paying now."



CHALLENGES AHEAD



The proposal, if passed, will likely face an immediate challenge in court and by taxpayers eager to evade the rules, according to tax and legal experts.



"I could potentially see people trying to get out of easier-to-value assets," said Tim Laffey, a lawyer who heads tax policy and research at Rockefeller Capital Management, which manages money for wealthy families. "Obviously, everything that's publicly traded has an established value, so maybe we see a push into alternative investments."



He also said there could be legal challenges, such as contesting whether appreciated assets that have not been sold can be treated by the federal government as taxable income.



Republicans do not support Biden's social spending bill and will also likely oppose the billionaire tax.



"They are talking about rewiring the entire economy after a couple of days' discussions on the back of an envelope," said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, adding the "harebrained scheme" had not received "any meaningful study or scrutiny."



Under the plan, details of which are still being finalized, gains on stocks and other easily traded assets would be taxed only for U.S. taxpayers with over $1 billion in assets or $100 million in income for three consecutive years, according to people familiar with the matter.



The billionaires would pay capital gains rates on their gains that year rather than putting off the bill indefinitely by holding on to the assets. Losses would offset that liability. The capital gains tax for assets held over a year top out at 23.8% currently, less than the 37% maximum for regular income.



A new levy would also be placed on assets that do not trade as easily, like real estate or a stake in a business. In that case, billionaires would essentially pay a surcharge when they sell the asset.



Not all billionaires are opposed. George Soros, the investor and liberal activist, is "supportive," his spokesperson told Reuters on Monday.



A ProPublica report in June said Soros paid no federal income tax for three years in a row. Citing private Internal Revenue Service data, it said Amazon.com Inc's (AMZN.O) Jeff Bezos and Tesla Inc's (TSLA.O) Elon Musk had also been able to skirt all federal income tax liability in some years.



The new law would likely include a set of rules to ensure the wealthy comply, including giving the federal government the power to examine whether trusts, estates and other legal structures are being used to evade the tax.



Still, the proposal would put new pressure on the IRS, which enforces U.S. tax law and has been hollowed out by budget cuts and hobbled by obsolete technology.



Reporting by Trevor Hunnicutt and Jarrett Renshaw; Additional reporting by David Morgan, David Randall and David Lawder; Editing by Kieran Murray and Peter Cooney

Source: REUTERS









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Some personal and business insurance claimants are slated to share their experiences at 4 pm this Thursday during the October 2021 edition of H.Insured: All About Insurance Webinar Series hosted by insurance group, Hollard Ghana, with its subsidiaries Hollard Insurance and Hollard Life Assurance. The webinar will be live on Zoom and on the companys Facebook page.



The webinar will be moderated by Dorothy Salifu, Head of Operations, a claims expert at Hollard Life Assurance, joined by her colleague, award-winning claims personality of the year at CIIG 2020, Iris Logan, who is Head of Claims at Hollard Insurance.



The claimants, drawn from business and private sector, are Hollard customers with testimonials to share. They are Michael Asiedu Ampomah, Chief Superintendent of Immigration, Adepa Family Plan claimant, Senyo Agbesi, Credit Controller, Motor Insurance claimant, Kwasi Asamoah, Eye equipment supplier, Adepa Wo Fie claimant, Appiah Agyeman Jnr, Head of People and Operations, Bayport Savings and Loans, Purple Employee Plan claimant and Sampson Vigbedor, Financial Director of Yamco Manufacturing Company Ltd, Fire and Allied Perils claimant



Commenting on the essence of the webinar, Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Affairs, Cynthia Ofori-Dwumfuo, said: Claims are the why of our business purpose. We are fulfilled when customers are delighted with our service, especially during their time of dire need. However, we acknowledge that the process of claiming can be challenging due to a lack of understanding of the process, and insurance companiescustomers may leave dissatisfied from avoidable issues and shun insurance altogether.



According to research, inadequate awareness, and improper way of filing for claims has resulted in so many misconceptions about insurance.As an unconventional company, which do well by doing good, we believe having these honest conversations can clear misconceptions.Hence, we have drawn claimants from our diverse products to share their personal experiences on the best ways to secure a pay-out. We believe by the time the discussion is over, customers in doubt will come to appreciate the claims process., she added.



The down to earth jargon-free webinar, in its second season, promises to be very educative and insightful. Interested participants should visit Hollard Ghana on Facebook to watch live at 4 pm on Thursday.



About Hollard Ghana



The countrys favourite insurance group is Hollard Ghana, with subsidiaries Hollard Insurance and Hollard Life Assurance. The group combines its deep local knowledge of the market having previously operated in Ghana for 25 years as Metropolitan Insurance with the world-class expertise of an international insurance brand in 18 countries across the world.



With feet firmly planted on Ghanaian soil but headquartered in South Africa, Hollard delivers innovative insurance solutions customized to the unique risks Ghanaians face.



Hollard offers various life and general insurance products including funeral, personal accident, motor, business, travel, home, and more; and can be reached via the following means: 0501603967 (Hollard Insurance) and 0501533698 (Hollard Life). Beyond various nationwide office branches and Hollard 2U franchise shops, Ghanaians can find Hollard at Shell Fuel Station Welcome Shops, Melcom stores and online at www.hollard.com.gh and www.jumia.com.gh for all their insurance needs.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The timeline is a further sign that Mali's military leadership is likely to extend an 18-month transition to constitutional rule that it originally promised would culminate in presidential and legislative elections on Feb. 27, 2022.



The U.N. delegation met transitional authorities, political parties and civil society representatives in Bamako over the weekend to assess Mali's progress back to democracy following the August 2020 overthrow of President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.



Niger's U.N. ambassador, Abdou Abarry, said they were told the national reform talks in December would agree an electoral schedule that would be announced soon afterward.



"While we cannot object to the reforms, we should not delay the end of the transition," Abarry told a news conference.



In September, interim Prime Minister Choguel Maiga said the elections could be postponed by "two weeks, two months, a few months" but that the final decision would be taken in October.



West and Central Africa have seen four coups since last year - a political upheaval that has intensified concerns about a backslide towards military rule in a resource-producing but poverty-stricken region.



Some non-governmental Malian participants in the latest talks said they supported delaying elections provided the authorities use the extended transition to implement reforms and take steps to end a decade of instability and conflict.



"We have to do all this now. If not, we will have premature elections and risk having another coup within a few years," said Attaye Ag Mohamed, head of a delegation from the Coordination of Azawad Movements Tuareg-led rebel alliance.



In September, France's foreign minister told the United Nations that French military efforts to combat terrorism in West Africa's Sahel region were not sustainable without political stability and respect for the democratic process.



Violent attacks across Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso rose eightfold from 2015 to 2020, according to U.N. figures. That has driven 2 million from their homes and left swathes of territory outside government control.







Source: REUTERS









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Senior Psychologist, Professor Joseph Osafo, has cautioned Ghanaians against physically attacking homosexuals or any person with effeminate features.



Ghana is currently debating on whether or not to enact a bill to criminalize homosexual practices.



The bill, when passed, will mean any person caught in same-sex marriage or same-sex intercourse could face a jail term.



The bill called Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill has been opposed by a group of scholars, Professors and lawyers who argue it is a violation of fundamental human rights.



However, Ningo-Prampram MP, Sam George who is sponsoring this private members bill with seven other Parliamentarians, who support it, are not backing down on getting the bill passed into law.



There are however fears that the bill will give people the authority to mistreat members of the LGBTQ+ community.



Professor Joseph Osafo is advising the citizenry not to assault any person they think or believe is homosexual as it is equally unlawful.



He suggested homosexuals should be respected and given the opportunity to undergo guided therapy to alter their personality stressing ''every human being has the potential to change''.



Speaking to host Kwami Sefa Kayi on Peace FM's ''Kokrokoo'', he emphatically stated ''even if a person identifies to be part of the group, you have no business to pick a machete to attack the person''.













Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









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The Management of the National Lottery Authority held a crunch meeting Monday, October 25, following the raiding of its premises by operatives of National Security.



Starr News gathered that the security personnel were following up on intel about issues with procurement, supply, and handling of NLAs security thermal paper rolls.



The spokesperson for NLA, Goodfellow Dei-Ofei, told Francis Abban on the Morning Starr a certain truck which made its way through the Aflao border indicated that they were going to get some suppliers done for the NLA, and so they basically have to follow up, because that they didnt pay the needed duties and all the statutory payment they needed to do, to find out what the situation was.



He added that in fact, the Director-General if you look at the period that the said contract was signed, Mr Samuel Awuku wasnt in office. Mr Samuel Awuku assumed office in the first week of August. This morning, he requested that a team who were there before he assumed office should give him a full brief of the matter.



So, currently, they are in a meeting briefing with the Director-General, so I am sure with some time given, we will be able to get the full fact of the matter. Who signed it, where it was signed and the papers circulating, what the contractors duties are, and who and who authorised the payment to the company?



On Friday, when this whole matter broke up, the circumstances that brought up the matter was that the said supplier through the courier didnt pay the needed fees because they were coming from Nigeria. Apparently, with some of the bits and pieces of the information that I have gotten, the printing was done in Nigeria, so they came through the Aflao border, and they didnt pay the duty component of it.













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The EUs top negotiator will meet his counterpart from Iran this week in Brussels for talks on restarting negotiations over Irans nuclear deal, a spokesman for the bloc said on Monday, October 25.



The EU, US, China and Russia are scrambling to try to get negotiations aimed at reviving the 2015 US-Iran Nuclear deal back on track after the election of a political hardliner in Tehran.



Irans chief negotiator on the deal, Deputy Foreign Minister Ali Bagheri, wrote on Twitter that he would be in Brussels on Wednesday to continue our talks on result-oriented negotiations.



EU spokesman Peter Stano said the meeting would involve the blocs lead negotiator Enrique Mora, who visited Tehran earlier this month to push Iran to restart full negotiations.



Stano said the EUs diplomatic service was sparing no efforts to resume talks of all parties in Vienna.



The agreement between Iran and world powers to find a long-term solution to the now two-decade-old crisis over its controversial nuclear programme has been inactive since former US President Donald Trump walked out of the deal in May 2018.



Joe Biden has said he is ready to re-enter the agreement, so long as Iran meets key preconditions including full compliance with the deal whose terms it has repeatedly violated by ramping up nuclear activities since the US left the pact.



The talks have since made little headway following the election of hardliner Ebrahim Raisi as Irans president.













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The Electoral Commission (EC) has said the 2020 elections results declared and announced at all the polling stations and collation centers were a true reflection of the will of the people.



Former President, John Dramani Mahama, claims the deployment of military personnel to collation centres forced some electoral officers to declare results in favour of the governing New Patriotic Party.



"This is also false. It never happened. Nowhere did the Military influence the declaration and announcement of results. It is not true. The 2020 processes were widely participatory. The media, local and international observers all participated in the elections. The results declared and announced at all the polling stations and collation centers were a true reflection of the will of the people, Deputy Chair of the Electoral Commission (EC), Dr Bossman Asare said at a press conference on Monday.



"The Media and Observers also picked their data right from the ground directly from the 38,622 polling stations and the collation centers and the results were no different from what the EC declared, he added.



According to the EC, to buttress the fact that the results were a reflection of the will of the people, it is important to indicate that all the major networks - Peace FM, UTV, Adom FM/TV, Joy News/FM, Kessben, Sky, GBC, Atinka Media collated their own results and it was the same as what the EC declared.



These networks called the election for the President before the EC declared. The parallel voter tabulation employed by CODEO also confirmed the results declared by the EC.



The EC has called on the good people of Ghana to disregard this allegation of the military influencing the declaration and announcement of results as it is false and untrue.



In the interest of our democracy we call on the Former President to provide evidence of where the influence by the Military occurred, Dr. Asare Bossman added.



John Mahama says Soldiers forced EC to declare results in NPPs favour



Former President, John Dramani Mahama, claims the deployment of military personnel to collation centres forced some electoral officers to declare results in favour of the governing New Patriotic Party.



The former President says the 2020 election was not transparent, as touted by the Electoral Commission and government.



Speaking on Global FM in Ho during his Thank You tour to the Volta Region, the former president said, although the 2020 elections were manipulated in the NPPs favour, there is hope for the NDC to win the 2024 elections.



But for a lot of scheming that took place, the NDC would have won the election. I do believe that we did win, but a lot of things went untoward and so even though power did not come into our hands, it does not mean we do not have the prospects of winning.



We won the majority in Parliament, but you saw what happened on the day. Many of the polling centres injected soldiers and forced the electoral officers to pronounce results that were not real.





















Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The Biden administration on Monday suspended $700 million in financial assistance to Sudan following a coup in the African nation that U.S. officials roundly condemned.



The State Department said the full amount of the aid package had been put on pause pending a review of the developments in Khartoum that saw the military oust a civilian-led transitional authority and detain many of its members.



Spokesman Ned Price called for the immediate release of those arrested, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, and the restoration of the civilian authority.



The civilian-led transitional government should be immediately restored. It represents the will of the Sudanese people, as evidenced by the significant, peaceful demonstrations of support, Price said.



We recognize the legitimate grievances about the pace of the transition, but (the) dismissal of government officials and dissolution of government institutions, both violate Sudans constitutional declaration and abandon the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people.



Military officials should immediately release and ensure the safety of all detained political actors, fully restore the civilian led transitional government and refrain from any violence against protesters, including the use of live ammunition, Price said. Any change to the transitional government by force risks assistance and our bilateral relationship more broadly.



Read Full Story .... www.usnews.com >>> :









Source: www.usnews.com









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The Minority National Democratic Congress (NDC) Caucus in Parliament, has complained about the questionable approval process of the presidents nominees for the Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives (MMDCEs).



It called for immediate interventions to prevent further acts of violence, brutalisation, harassment and intimidation that characterised the approval of some MMDCEs after their nomination and confirmation.



The Minority accused government officialsof abusing processes and procedures of approval with reference to incidents at Assin South, Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, Sekyere/ Kumawu, Suaman, Awutu Senya West, Shama, Cape Coast, and Lawra.



At a press conference at Parliament House, Nii Lante Vanderpuye, the Member of Parliament (MP) for Odododiodoo in the Greater Accra Region and Ranking Member on the Committee, pledged to protect the sanctity of local governance system and democracy and condemned chaotic scenes.



He called on the president and the Minister of Local Government, Decentralisation and Rural Development to order a re-run of processes at Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, Assin South, Sekyere Kumawu, and Cape Coast where assembly members were prevented from exercising their constitutional mandate and asked the police to investigate reported cases of abuse, harassment and intimidation.



The Minority played video footages showing confusion and prevention of Philip Basoah, MP for Kumawu in the Ashanti Region and some assembly members from entering voting hall to vote to approve or reject nominee.



There were other video footages that showed some re-appointed chief executives struggling their way through to be approved while other assembly members were either given wrong dates, venues and times that deprived them of casting their votes for approval or rejection of nominees.



Nii Vanderpuye further complained about last minute replacement of nominees in Suaman and Awutu Senya West districts, in addition to use of security personnel to intimidate voters at Sekyere/Kumawu.



For Shama, what made its case disturbing, was an impending court injunction on processes but the government disrespected the court and organiseda botched approval and we wonder why there should be brouhaha over approvals, following eight months wait for release of names by the president to afford wider consultation with chiefs and other stakeholders before names was released.



We promise to haul District Police Commander of Kumawu to Privileges Committee of Parliament, when the House resumes sitting, to explain why Mr Basoah was prevented from exercising his franchise, Nii Vanderpuye said.

Source: The Ghanaian Times









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The Ghana Integrity Initiative (GII), has challenged the citizenry to be bold to report cases of corruption and suspected acts of corruption within their localities without any fear of victimisation.



It said corruption had become adaptive,it had grown, changed alongside the world systems and needed to be tackled head-on by reporting cases instead thinking of victimisation.



This can only be done if citizens are willing to report cases also while encouraging Ghanaians to develop an interest in reporting people who are involved in corrupt practices,corruption does not occur only amongst politicians and people in authority but everywhere in society, GII noted.



Awelana Addah,the programmes Manager at GII,was worried over how corruption as was known did no longer happen in the dark but was now practiced in the open and happened everywhere involving everyone.



She was speaking at a stakeholder engagement in Tamale organised by GII in collaboration with Ghana Developing Communities Association and SEND-Ghana to empower the citizenry to be able to demand probity, transparency and accountability from leadership.



Mrs Addah explained that it was not only in the political offices or public institutions that corruption happens, it happens even in homes, churches and schools and lamented that corruption no longer happened in the dark but inbroad daylight.



She indicated that the most worrying of it was corruption was now adaptive, as the world changes, its acts also change and alleged that people took bribes through MoMo since technology and corruption could be termed as bedfellows.



Citizens should at all-time demand probity, accountability and transparency from authority both from the local assemblies and central government and report same to the appropriate institutions if they have any suspicions and the whistleblowers act protects every citizen who reports corrupt cases so we should not be scared to blow the whistle, Mrs Addah stressed.



Alhaji Osman Abdel-Rahaman, the Executive Director of Ghana Developing Communities Association, whose outfit conducted research on the level of corruption in five District Assemblies in the Northern Region, cautioned that corruption at the local level was on the rise in recent times and all Ghanaians were needed on board to be able to tackle the menace.

Source: The Ghanaian Times









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The Bolgatanga High Court on Wednesday adjourned to November 2, 2021, the election petition involving the 2020 parliamentary candidate for the New Patriotic Party (NPP), for Pusiga, and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament (MP) for Pusiga.



Abdul-Karim Zaani Dubiure, the NPP parliamentary candidate for Pusiga, petitioner, accused the Electoral Commission (EC), and Hajia Laadi Ayii Ayamba, NDC MP for Pusiga, who was parliamentary candidate, first and second defendants, respectively, of widespread electoral malpractices and irregularities.



The court presided over by Justice Charles Adjei Wilson adjourned the case after lawyers for the petitioner and second defendants completed their cross-examination.



Both parties are expected to reopen their defense or file their addresses in November.



It was the case of Dubiure that he won the election, alleging that there was overvoting at Pusiga Dispensary, Terago Clinic, Teshie Nating, and Laatega polling stations.



The petitioner, who is seeking relief, indicated that the first defendant erred by declaring Hajia Ayamba as the validly elected MP for Pusiga.



The counsels for the defendant were Godwin Edudzi Tamakloe and Dominic Ayine, and counsel for the petitioner were Sule Sabian and Anthony Namoo.



Mr. Tamakloe argued that results from the four polling stations, where the petitioner alleged electoral malpractices took place, could not make him win the election, considering the quantum of votes declared in favour of Hajia Ayamba.



The counsel for the petitioner, however, argued that once there were electoral malpractices at the polling stations, the EC should not have declared the NDC parliamentary candidate as a winner.

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Source: The Ghanaian Times









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The Majority Chief Whip of Parliament, Frank Annoh  Dompreh, has called on Ghanaians not to expect the passage of the anti-Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Pansexual, Transgender, Genderqueer, Queer, Intersex, and Agender (LGBTQ+) law soon.



The LGBTQI discussion has taken a center stage in the country with a chunk of Ghanaians calling on the President, Nana Akufo-Addo, and Parliamentarians to reject the Anti-LGBTQI bill currently under consideration.



The Nsawam/ Adoagyiri Member of Parliament, Annoh Dompreh explaining the Parliamentary duties on the bill noted that the committee will come out with their report but it has to go through processes before it is passed into law or not.



He stated on Oman Fm that  I will call on the people who are much interested in this debate to exercise patience and allow Parliament to work as the law says.



He continued that, It is going to be action-packed and a very busy sitting this time starting from Tuesday, October 26, 2021. This is not an existing bill to make an amendment, it is an entirely new bill and more so, a private members bill.



He concluded that We are making a law that will regulate in many years in Ghana and so, we need to see to it what will happen in the future and the repercussion as against the International law, constitution, and others. So, Ghanaians should exercise patience for us to do due diligence with the matter.







Source: Daily Guide









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Princess Mako of Japan has given up her royal title to marry her commoner boyfriend in a move that has sharply divided public opinion.



Mako, 30, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of reigning Emperor Naruhito, tied the knot with university sweetheart Kei Komuro, a commoner, in Tokyo on Tuesday after an eight-year engagement.



Japan's strict laws of succession forbid women from ascending to the Chrysanthemum Throne and force them to give up their titles if they marry commoners.



The low-key union, which was met with protests, was bereft of traditional rituals, with the couple voicing sadness over the controversy that haunted their engagement.



The private service behind closed doors was a far cry from the pomp and ceremony of other Japanese royal weddings, which traditionally include a reception, banquet and formal family photos.



Mako was pictured leaving her family's residence at Akasaka Estate early Tuesday, bowing to father Crown Prince Akishino and mother Crown Princess Kiko before sharing a hug with sister Princess Kako. She then went alone by car to marry Kei at a registry office, away from cameras and a public who are divided over the relationship.



Read Full Story .... dailymail.co.uk >>> :

















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60-year-old highlife musician, Nana Addo, has said, he has been neglected by the ruling New Patriotic Party, despite contributing to the electoral success of the party.



The edan ntese adaka hitmaker who was speaking in an interview with Kumasi-based Kessben FM, revealed how he ended up using a loan secured to fix his faulty taxi which he was feeding from, to compose a campaign song to help the presidents electoral course.



I bought a Taxi after I returned from Asia so I was working as a Taxi driver at Bantama but unfortunately the engine of the car broke down and I had to go for a loan of GHC2000 to get a new engine and fix the car.



When I went for the loan, it was around the 2020 Elections. I had a dream where I saw Nana Addo as the president who made railway transport in Ghana very active. I decided to use the Ghc2000 loan to do a piece of music for Akufo-Addo, he said.



Nana Addo went on to say that after contributing to the campaign of the NPP, he has not received any benefit for his contribution and he is currently having issues finding a decent accommodation as he could not renew his rent which expired recently.



According to the musician, he eventually had to sell his taxi for a paltry GHC3,000 to repay the loan he took back in 2020.



"After the elections, I have not heard of them and life has been extremely difficult. My landlord has evicted me from his House, someone in Nkoranza has given me a small room where I currently stay.



Im therefore using your medium to plead to the general public to come to my aid, he added.



He, however, debunked certain assertions that musicians in the days lived a life of extravaganza at the expense of saving for their retirement.



Contrary to that he said the music industry back in time was not with high economic benefits.



During our time, there wasnt too much money in the music industry. And also it was a time where piracy was at its peak. You will do the music and some other people will make recordings of it, put your name on it, and be selling them, he stated. "After the elections, I have not heard of them and life has been extremely difficult. My landlord has evicted me from his House, someone in Nkoranza has given me a small room where I currently stay.



"Im therefore using your medium to plead to the general public to come to my aid, Nana Addo stressed.

Source: ghanaweb.con









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The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has entered into partnership with the Grow, Unite, Build Africa (GUBA) for the 2021 awards intended to celebrate a centenary of the demise and legacies of Yaa Asantewaa, the Asante Queen Mother of Ejisu and the last African woman to lead a major war against the British colonial powers in 1900.



The awards, according to GUBA, will be heralded with a cultural durbar at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi on November 7, with the main awards ceremony slated for November 8, 2021 at the Accra International Conference Centre.



A letter from UNFPA to GUBA on the upcoming awards, said UNFPA recognizes the importance and critical role of women in the development of any nation, and has therefore accepted to partner GUBA for the awards.



The letter noted that the UNFPA, having reviewed the works of GUBA over the years, and realizing the organizations focus on the resilience of women, promoting greater economic, social and cultural cooperation between Africa and the African diaspora, has been convinced that the collaboration will go a long way to inspire women to achieve more in their fields of endeavor.



UNFPA delivers a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young persons potential is fulfilled while the girl child is empowered, the letter said.



Receiving the support, GUBA Enterprises President and CEO, Dentaa Amoateng MBE, lauded the partnership between GUBA and UNFPA and said the support will further increase the success of the awards this year.



This partnership is a great motivation for us at GUBA because we find similar synergies and share similar aspirations in the works of the UNFPA. This support is a big deal for us at GUBA, Dentaa noted.



2021 marks exactly 100 years of the death of Yaa Asantewaa, the last African woman to lead a major war against colonial powers in 1900, where she played the role of the Commander-in-Chief of the powerful Asante Empire.



These events will observe an important moment in African history, one that is unique to the relations between the Republic of Ghana and the Republic of Seychelles and is expected to host several high-profile personalities from the diaspora.



While celebrating Yaa Asantewaa, the awards will also recognize the contribution of Black women in the diaspora and Africa.



The 2021 GUBA Awards will also raise awareness on maternal mortality and call for measures to ensure safe child delivery across the continent.





About the Theme



The year 2021 marks a centenary of the death of Nana Yaa Asantewaa, an Asante Queen Mother and the last African woman to lead a major war against colonial powers in 1900, where she played the role of the Commander-in-Chief of the powerful Asante Empire. After the war, Yaa Asantewaa was captured and taken to Seychelles in exile, where she lived until her demise on October 21, 1921.



This year marks exactly 100 years of her transition.



GUBA seeks to promote greater economic, social, and cultural cooperation between Africa and the African diaspora through harnessing the power of the African youth to advance the socio-economic interests of the continent.



This years events has seen several collaborations and supports from high profile organizations, including the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Ministry of Tourism Arts and Culture, Ghana Tourism Authority, GNPC, ECOM among others.

Source: Naomi Obenewaa Abrokwa/Peace News









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Olivia McCoy, 20, Kennesaw State University, Psychology Major

" " "If you can vote, vote."  Olivia McCoy Olivia McCoy

Olivia McCoy isn't new to voting  she cast a ballot in the 2018 Georgia gubernatorial election. But November will be her first time voting for U.S. president. She plans to vote in person because she attends school (currently online due to the coronavirus pandemic) in her home state.

"I feel like if I don't vote, then I didn't do my job as a citizen due to the political climate," McCoy says. "It makes me feel like an adult. I actually feel able talk about politics and have a say so in it."

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There are numerous issues of significance to her, like immigration, education, student loan forgiveness, how the U.S. is perceived globally and the pandemic. But she doesn't see one election as a quick fix.

"It's going to take more than 20 years to fix racism and how we feel about immigration, and how we feel about the use of our money; what are we paying taxes for," she says. "In the future, I honestly feel like we'll be going through the same issues, sadly, just in different forms."

Nevertheless, she stresses the importance of voting, in part because some people say that voices like hers never mattered and others sacrificed in order to change that. "This is the election for you to show your appreciation of what the people before us fought for," McCoy says.

"You hear a lot of people saying my vote doesn't count, but as a black woman, you really have to understand the position that you play," she explains. "At this point in time, it's pretty much life and death. This is going to be the rest of our lives."

Chloe Sparwath, 20, University of Virginia, Foreign Affairs Major

" " "You're voting for your future."  Chloe Sparwath Chloe Sparwath

A member of the College Republicans and UVA chapter president of the conservative women's group Network of Enlightened Women, Chloe Sparwath says she worries that Americans are so fired up over various issues and blaming problems on the country and its foundations that there will be a push to get rid of the institutions and foundations the country was built on.

"I'm a huge government nerd," Sparwath says. "I love the Constitution, and I love the Bill of Rights." Although the country may not be perfect, she says, people might not realize that the trajectory may lead from debating political issues to debating whether the country should remain.

"It's important for everybody to vote because so many people have fought for this right for us," she says. "No matter what you think of politicians these days, it's still pretty special that we get to choose our leaders when a lot of people don't."

Plus, voting is cool.

"It's really cool to vote in a presidential election, and I'm excited to cast my vote in Georgia, which is my home state," Sparwath says. "We're at a really critical time; I guess people probably say that with every election."

She says social justice issues are top of mind for her generation, while she believes guns, which had been an important focus, have taken a backseat to the Black Lives Matter movement.

"Never has the youth been so informed on so many different issues, or at least think they are informed," she says.

Sparwath says she will be voting by absentee ballot because she is in Virginia for school, even though her classes are all online due to coronavirus. Sparwath, who has volunteered in the past for several senators, says the pandemic has made it more difficult to continue in person, although she plans to get more involved with Georgia races via phone banking.

"It's made political clubs have to reevaluate," she says. "Engagement is somewhat down. It's a weird time."

Mercer Butts, 20, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, Animal Science Major

" " "We are essentially going to be the leaders of the future."  Mercer Butts Mercer Butts

Mercer Butts recently completed his applications to veterinary school and hopes to practice production animal medicine. Because of his interest in agricultural matters, he puts topics like farming and the climate change at the top of his list of political concerns.

"We're at a critical time in our country's history," he says. "There are so many issues that are near and dear to me that have to be solved in the next few years. Many farmers, especially smaller farmers, cannot find labor for their farms." He points to the importance of modernizing farms, expanding the H1 visa program and improving internet in rural locations.

Like McCoy, he also believes his generation will be dealing with these problems for decades, but he knows now is a time of crisis. "The same issues will be here 20 years from now," he says. "Ten billion people will be here by 2050, and we can't even feed the people we have right now."

Butts serves on the political action committee at NCA&T, which is the largest and the No. 1 public historically black college in the country. Because of his school's status, many Democratic candidates and other leaders have visited. He attended the first meeting to establish an early voting location on campus for students. Before it was created in 2019, many students had to walk  some up to 6 miles (9.6 kilometers) roundtrip  to the nearest polling location.

"It's so important that we are actually using our right to vote so that we are influencing change for the future," he says. "I've never had to make the decision that will influence us federally and nationally. To have that much power and influence for change is just wonderful. It makes me feel really good."

Butts voted in the primary elections when he was home in Atlanta and plans to drive back to vote in the presidential election, too.

Cory Schmitt, 18, Indiana University, Audio Engineering and Sound Production Major

" " "It is incredibly important to vote and fight for what you believe in."  Cory Schmitt Cory Schmitt

After voting for the first time ever in the California primary, Cory Schmitt left for Indiana to attend college. For the November presidential election, he's counting on his parents to get his ballot at home and mail it to him at school so he will fill it out and mail it back to California.

"Besides the fact that this is the first time I've had a chance to vote [for president], I am voting because I believe this era in history  the last decade through the next decade  will truly determine the fate of humanity and our society," he says via email.

And when it comes to the future, Schmitt says he thinks his generation's vote is the most important because they are the ones who will have to deal with the repercussions of politics for decades to come.

"The youngest people in a group of voters will always matter the most because of that," he explains. "Newborn babies technically have the most important role since they will most likely outlive the 18-year-olds. But they definitely should not be voting, so we'll stick to the adults."

Among young voters, Schmitt finds the most important issues to be COVID-19 and climate change.

"COVID-19 is the biggest problem our country is facing right now, while climate change is the biggest problem the world will face for all eternity if we don't do something about it," he writes.

Although Schmitt has political views, he says he's not typically outspoken about them. Instead, he emphasizes a desire to see "incredibly high" voter turnout because then he'll know people's voices were heard.

"Even if I strongly disagree with those voices," he states. "But I also think that if everyone voted, Donald Trump would not win because I think a majority of this country does not support him. But that could be the Democratic Southern-Californian in me talking."

Tara Joshi, 19, Bucknell University, Environmental Engineering Major

" " "If there's a year to vote, it's right now."  Tara Joshi Tara Joshi

Although Tara Joshi plans to vote in the presidential election, she emphasizes the importance of voting in every election and would like to see more of a focus on that in today's social justice movements, particularly at the local level.

"If you want a change to how the police are being run, then vote for sheriff," she says. During the summer, Joshi voted in the primary and again in a Fulton County, Georgia, runoff. She will be voting again this November and says her plan is to do so in person.

"It's pretty exciting," she says. "Between COVID and BLM and climate change, this is a very pivotal year." As an environmental engineering student, she will dedicate her career to sustainability, so that is an important ballot issue for her. So are social justice issues.

"It's coming to light how far behind our country is in terms of social progress," she says. "You can't get rid of racism in 20 years. I'm hoping it will improve." She views a connection between all of the issues and how each affects the other. For example, with climate change, she says she believes it's low-income communities that suffer most from environmental disasters.

Joshi is currently taking college classes online, although Bucknell University in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, does offer face-to-face options. But because she is at home, she says she's considering serving as a poll worker.

"[Being a] poll worker is the main way I can make a difference," she says. And voting. "If someone doesn't vote and still wants to complain about who the president is, I kind of lose respect for them."

This story is part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.

Rock the Vote! Rock the Vote turns 30 this year. It was started by music executives back in 1990 in response to the censorship of hip-hop and rap artists, but its partnership with MTV also helped ignite millions of young people in the United States to vote for the first time. If you need information on how to register to vote for the first time, check out Rockthevote.org.
Smoke rising from a forest fire outside the village of Berdigestyakh, in the republic of Sakha, Siberia. (Dimitar Dilkoff/AFP)

Last year was the hottest ever in Asia, with extreme weather displacing millions of people and causing billions in economic damage, according to data from the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO).

Asias warmest year on record saw the mean temperature rise 1.39C above the average seen in 19812020.

Heat extremes included a temperature of 38C at Verkhoyansk, Russian Federation, provisionally the highest known temperature anywhere north of the Arctic Circle.

The soaring temperatures pose a direct danger to people, WMO officials warned.

Watch: Which country suffers the most from extreme weather?

Professor Petteri Taalas, WMO secretary general, said: Weather and climate hazards, especially floods, storms, and droughts, had significant impacts in many countries of the region, affecting agriculture and food security, contributing to increased displacement and vulnerability of migrants, refugees, and displaced people, worsening health risks, and exacerbating environmental issues and losses of natural ecosystems.

Combined, these impacts take a significant toll on long term sustainable development, and progress toward the UN 2030 Agenda and Sustainable Development Goals in particular.

Read more: Why economists worry that reversing climate change is hopeless

In 2020 floods and storms affected approximately 50 million people in Asia and resulted in more than 5 000 fatalities.

Tropical cyclones, floods and droughts induced an estimated average annual loss of several hundred billion dollars, according to ESCAP (Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific).

The average annual loss is expected to be as high as 7.9% of GDP for Tajikistan and 5.9% of GDP for Cambodia.

The worst-hit areas were affected by droughts.

Intense cyclones, monsoon rains and floods hit highly exposed and densely populated areas in South Asia and East Asia and led to the displacement of millions of people in China, Bangladesh, India, Japan, Pakistan, Nepal and Viet Nam in 2020.

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High Mountain Asia is home to approximately 38610 square miles of glaciers centred on the Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas.

It contains the largest volumes of ice outside of the polar regions and is the source of 10 important Asian rivers.

Read more: A 1988 warning about climate change was mostly right

Glacier retreat is accelerating and it is projected that glacier mass will decrease by 20% to 40% by 2050, affecting the lives and livelihoods of about 750 million people in the region.

Last weeks UN climate change report warned that extreme weather events like heatwaves and droughts which previously would have happened every 50 years could soon happen every four.

Annual mean temperature anomalies 1900-2020 averaged over Asia, relative to 1981-2010. (Met Office, UK)

The report was the first to quantify the likelihood of extreme events across a wide variety of scenarios.

The researchers also warned that other tipping point events are a possibility.

The researchers wrote, Abrupt responses and tipping points of the climate system, such as strongly increased Antarctic ice sheet melt and forest dieback, cannot be ruled out.

Read more: Melting snow in Himalayas drives growth of green sea slime visible from space

Dr Robert Rohde, lead Scientist of Berkeley Earth, said: What were once-in-50-year heat extremes are now occurring every 10 years.

By a rise of 2C, those same extremes will occur every 3.5 years.

The report found that (for example) once-in-a-decade heavy rain events are already 1.3 times more likely and 6.7% wetter compared with the 50 years leading up to 1900 when human-driven warning began to occur.

Droughts that previously happened once a decade now happen every five or six years.

Xuebin Zhang, a climatologist with Environment Canada in Toronto, warned that as the world warms, such extreme weather events will not just become more frequent, they will become more severe.

Zhang said the world should also expect more compound events, such as heat waves and long-term droughts occurring simultaneously.

He said: We are not going to be hit just by one thing, we are going to be hit by multiple things at the same time.

Watch: What is COP26 and how will it affect the future of climate change?
Countries in Southeast Asia are planning to reopen their borders to international tourists, including Thailand, which has already started with its Sandbox program as part of the countrys re-opening.

To contribute to the recovery of the tourism industry, Traveloka, Southeast Asias travel & lifestyle superapp with over 60 million downloads, introduced Welcome to Thailand Again, a promotional campaign offering special deals for inbound tourists and fully vaccinated travellers to explore Thailand with discounts of up to 10%, while at the same time encouraging safe travel.

Panicha Thananaken, Country Manager of Traveloka Thailand, said, Through our ongoing efforts, Traveloka has demonstrated its commitment to encourage safe travel and enhance the tourism industry in Thailand. With the rigorous plan to boost the vaccination rate, we are optimistic that this effort will positively contribute to the economic recovery and growth, including in the tourism sector. With 34.7 percent (as of 15 October 2021) of the population now fully vaccinated, we are aiming to bring in international visitors to safely explore the country with Traveloka. We believe that this program will receive an overwhelming response in the market and effectively contribute to the tourism sector.

Prioritizing safety during this tough period, Traveloka is committed to encouraging strict adherence to health protocols outlined by the government. Fully aware that we still need to remain alert with the ongoing pandemic, we armed our in-app feature with a Safe Travel Page that provides real-time COVID-19 information updates on travel regulations, document requirements, and safe traveling tips for customer reference. In addition, we have also been proactively encouraging people to implement strict health protocols through our own channels, such as Travelokas platform as well as our social media, added Panicha.

To fulfil the travel and lifestyle aspirations of its customers, Traveloka also provided an inspirational content section whereby customers can be inspired on what to do and where to visit in Thailand. And to facilitate the booking experience for customers, Traveloka offers end-to-end solutions to support all inbound travelers needs, including flights, accommodations, and experiences/attractions, through to COVID-19 testing with special prices and coupons:

Discount for international inbound flights: 10% or up to 50 euros

Discount for domestic flights in Thailand: up to THB 200

Accommodation coupon: up to THB 250

Xperience coupon: up to THB 200

The Welcome to Thailand Again program includes popular tourist areas being promoted by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, such as Phuket, Krabi, Samui, Bangkok and Chiang Mai. International visitors who miss visiting Amazing Thailand can enjoy these perks starting from today until December 2021 via the Traveloka app.

For more information and program terms and conditions, please visit https://www.traveloka.com/en-en/promotion/welcometh or scan the QR Code below to download the Traveloka app.
The North Fork of the Kaweah River, which flows from Sequoia National Park, is seen swollen with frothy, black water, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, in Three Rivers, Calif. Credit: AP Photo/Brian Melley

A powerful atmospheric river storm that swept through California set rainfall records and helped douse wildfires. But it remained to be seen how much of a dent it made in the state's drought.

The weather system weakened as it moved south but still dropped enough rain Monday evening to cause mudslides that closed roads in the San Bernardino Mountains northeast of Los Angeles.

The atmospheric river storm, a long and wide plume of moisture pulled in from the Pacific, came ashore in Northern California over the weekend.

Drenching rains caused widespread flooding and rock slides. Strong winds knocked down trees and toppled two big trucks on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge near San Francisco. Pacific Gas & Electric reported that 646,000 homes and businesses lost power, though most had it back by Monday.

By early Tuesday, light rain and snow was still falling in northern parts of California and the lone remaining flood warning was in Sonoma County north of San Francisco, where stream levels were slow to fall.

Despite the problems, the rain and mountain snow were welcome in Northern California, which is so dry that nearly all of it is classified as either experiencing extreme or exceptional drought.

The wet weather also greatly reduces the chances of additional wildfires in a region that has borne the brunt of another devastating year of blazes in the state.

In this photo provided by Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, falling snow collects on cars in a parking lot at Mammoth Mountain, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, in Mammoth Lakes, Calif. Credit: Christian Pondella/Mammoth Mountain Ski Area via AP

The National Weather Service called preliminary rainfall totals from the storm "staggering." Four inches (10 centimeters) fell Sunday in downtown San Francisco, making it the fourth-wettest day on record for the city.

"It's been a memorable past 24 hours for the Bay Area as the long talked-about atmospheric river rolled through the region," the local weather office said Monday. "We literally have gone from fire/drought conditions to flooding in one storm cycle."

Northeast of San Francisco, 5.44 inches (13.82 centimeters) fell on downtown Sacramento, shattering the one-day record for rainfall that had stood since 1880.

Along the state's central coast, nearly 5.4 inches (13.72 centimeters) of rain was recorded at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo County. In Southern California, 1.1 inches (2.79 centimeters) fell in Beverly Hills.

In this photo provided by Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, snow falls on Mammoth Mountain, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, in Mammoth Lakes, Calif. Credit: Christian Pondella/Mammoth Mountain Ski Area via AP

Interstate 80, the major highway through the Sierra Nevada Mountains to Reno, Nevada, was closed by heavy snow early Monday. In California's Colusa and Yolo counties, state highways 16 and 20 were shut for several miles because of mudslides, the state Department of Transportation said.

The same storm system also slammed Oregon and Washington state, causing power outages affecting tens of thousands of people. Two people were killed when a tree fell on a vehicle in the greater Seattle area.

Water levels at Lake Oroville, a major Northern California reservoir, rose 20 feet (6.10 meters) over the past week, according to the state's Department of Water Resource. Most of the increase came between Saturday and Monday during the height of the storm, KHSL-TV reported.

Justin Mankin, a geography professor at Dartmouth College and co-lead of the Drought Task Force at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said the cycle of going from years-long drought to record-breaking downpours is expected to continue because of climate change.

The North Fork of the Kaweah River, which flows from Sequoia National Park, is swollen with frothy, black water, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, in Three Rivers, Calif. Credit: AP Photo/Brian Melley

"While this rain is welcome, it comes with these hazards, and it won't necessarily end the drought," Mankin said. "California still needs more precipitation, and it really needs it in high elevations and spread out over a longer time so it's not hazardous."

Christy Brigham, chief of resource management and science at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, said the rain was a big relief after the KNP Complex fire torched an unknown number of the giant trees in the park, along with thousands of pines and cedars.

"This amount of rainfall is what we call a season-ending event," Brigham said. "It should end fire season, and it should end our needto a large degreeto fight this fire."

Over the weekend, the California Highway Patrol closed a stretch of State Route 70 in Butte and Plumas counties because of multiple landslides within the massive Dixie Fire burn scar.

In this photo provided by Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, snow falls on Mammoth Mountain, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, in Mammoth Lakes, Calif. Credit: Christian Pondella/Mammoth Mountain Ski Area via AP

In this photo provided by Mammoth Mountain Ski Area, snow falls on Mammoth Mountain, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, in Mammoth Lakes, Calif. Credit: Christian Pondella/Mammoth Mountain Ski Area via AP

Matthew Landry wrings out a mop as he dries out his garage on C Street in San Rafael, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Landry says shoes were floating in his garage when his street flooded during Saturday's storm. Credit: Alan Dep/Marin Independent Journal via AP

Water flows at the inflow to Lake Kaweah, a large reservoir in Three Rivers, Calif., Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: AP Photo/Brian Melley

A flooded sign remains after water had receded on C Street in San Rafael, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: Alan Dep/Marin Independent Journal via AP

A wind surfer surfs in the rain in Long Beach, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: Brittany Murray/The Orange County Register via AP

Wet weather is no barrier for joggers along the bike path in Long Beach, Calif., on Monday, Oct 25, 2021. Credit: Brittany Murray/The Orange County Register via AP

Robert Schmidt cleans up after Saturday's storm in front of his home on C Street in San Rafael, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. During the storm, the street was under water, with several inches of water entering Schmidt's garage. Credit: Alan Dep/Marin Independent Journal via AP

A wind surfer surfs in the rain in Long Beach, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: Brittany Murray/The Orange County Register via AP

Rain continues to fall in Long Beach, Calif., Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: Brittany Murray/The Orange County Register via AP

A man attempts to stay dry while riding along Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, Calif., during a rainstorm, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: Sarah Reingewirtz/The Orange County Register via AP

Wet weather is no barrier for joggers along the bike path in Long Beach, Calif., Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: Brittany Murray/The Orange County Register via AP

A wind surfer surfs as a bird flies by in the rain, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021, in Long Beach, Calif. Credit: Brittany Murray/The Orange County Register via AP

MoShawn Moore attempts to stay dry using a borrowed umbrella while walking to a bus stop on Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, Calif., during a rainstorm, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Credit: Sarah Reingewirtz/The Orange County Register via AP

Cal Fire, the state firefighting agency, did not declare the wildfire season over or cut staffing to lower winter levels.

"We'd like to see some more rain coming our way before we look at reducing staffing," spokesman Isaac Sanchez said.

The long-term weather forecast for California suggests drier-than-normal conditions, Mankin said.

"To end different aspects of the drought, you are going to need a situation where parts of California get precipitation over the next three months that's about 200% of normal," he said, adding that "despite this really, really insane rainfall, the winter is probably going to be drier than average."

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Artists impression of the Proxima Centauri system. Credit: Breakthrough Listen / Zayna Sheikh

An intriguing candidate signal picked up last year by the Breakthrough Listen project has been subjected to intensive analysis that suggests it is unlikely to originate from the Proxima Centauri system. Instead, it appears to be an artifact of Earth-based interference from human technologies, the Breakthrough Initiatives announced today. Two research papers, published in Nature Astronomy, discuss both the detection of the candidate signal and an advanced data analysis process that can finely discern "false positives."

"The significance of this result is that the search for civilizations beyond our planet is now a mature, rigorous field of experimental science," said Yuri Milner, founder of Breakthrough Inititatives.

Breakthrough Listen (a program of the Breakthrough Initiatives) is an astronomical science program searching for technosignaturessigns of technology that may have been developed by extraterrestrial intelligence. Listen's science team, led by Dr. Andrew Siemion at the University of California, Berkeley, uses some of the largest radio telescopes in the world, equipped with the most capable digital processing systems, to capture data across broad swaths of the radio spectrum in the direction of a wide range of celestial targets. The search is challenging because Earth is awash with radio signals from human technologycell phones, radar, satellites, TV transmitters, and so on. Searching for a faint signal from a distant star is akin to picking out a needle in a vast digital haystackand one that is changing constantly over time.

The CSIRO Parkes Telescope in New South Wales, Australia (one of the largest telescopes in the Southern Hemisphere, known as "Murriyang" in Wiradjuri) is among the facilities participating in Breakthrough Listen's search. One of the targets being monitored by Parkes is Proxima Centauri, the Sun's nearest neighboring star, at a distance of just over 4 light years. The star is a red dwarf orbited by two known exoplanets. The Listen team scanned the target across a frequency range of 700 MHz to 4 GHz, with a resolution of 3.81 Hzin other words, performing the equivalent of tuning to over 800 million radio channels at a time, with exquisite detection sensitivity.

Shane Smith, an undergraduate researcher working with Listen Project Scientist Dr. Danny Price in the summer 2020 Breakthrough Listen internship program, ran the data from these observations through Breakthrough Listen's search pipeline. He detected over 4 million "hits"frequency ranges that had signs of radio emission. This is actually quite typical for Listen's observations; the vast majority of these hits make up the haystack of emissions from human technology.

As with all of Listen's observations, the pipeline filters out signals which look like they are unlikely to be coming from a transmitter at a large distance from Earth, according to two main criteria:

Firstly, is the signal steadily changing in frequency with time? A transmitter on a distant planet would be expected to be in motion with respect to the telescope, leading to a Doppler drift akin to the change in pitch of an ambulance siren as it moves relative to an observer. Rejecting hits with no such signs of motion reduces the number of hits from 4 million to around 1 million for this particular dataset.

Secondly, for the hits that remain, do they appear to be coming from the direction of the target? To determine this, the telescope points in the direction of Proxima Centauri, and then points away, repeating this "ON-OFF" pattern several times. Local interfering sources are expected to affect both ON and OFF observations, whereas a candidate technosignature should appear only in the ON observations.

Breakthrough Listen recently made an intriguing detection using the Parkes Murriyang Telescope in Australia, while observing Proxima Centauri, the Suns nearest neighboring star. Data spanning a frequency range of 700 MHz to 4 GHz were run through Listens search pipeline, resulting in the detection of a narrow-band signal, persisting over five hours of observation, that had some of the expected characteristics of an extraterrestrial transmission. Informally dubbed BLC1 (Breakthrough Listen Candidate 1), the Listen science team at Berkeley SETI Research Center has spent several months subjecting the signal to further tests. Ultimately the team determined that the candidate signal appears to be interference from human technology, but the analysis provides an excellent test of Listens pipeline. Credit: BerkeleySETI

Even after both of these data filters are applied, a handful of candidates remain that must be inspected visually. Sometimes a faint signal is actually visible in the OFF observations but is not quite strong enough to be picked up by automated algorithms. Sometimes similar signals appear in neighboring observations, indicative of interfering sources that may be turning on and off at just the wrong period, or the team can track down the signals to satellites that commonly broadcast in certain frequency bands.

Occasionally an intriguing signal remains and must be subjected to further checks. Such a signal of interest was discovered by Smith in Listen's observations of Proxima Centauri using the Parkes telescope. A narrow-band, Doppler-drifting signal, persisting over five hours of observations, that appears to be present only in "ON'' observations of the target star and not in the interspersed "OFF" observations, had some of the characteristics expected from a technosignature candidate.

Dr. Sofia Sheikh, currently a postdoctoral researcher with the Listen team at UC Berkeley, dug into a larger dataset of observations taken at other times. She found around 60 signals that share many characteristics of the candidate, but are also seen in their respective OFF observations.

"We can therefore confidently say that these other signals are local to the telescope and human-generated," says Sheikh. "The signals are spaced at regular frequency intervals in the data, and these intervals appear to correspond to multiples of frequencies used by oscillators that are commonly used in various electronic devices. Taken together, this evidence suggests that the signal is interference from human technology, although we were unable to identify its specific source. The original signal found by Shane Smith is not obviously detected when the telescope is pointed away from Proxima Centauribut given a haystack of millions of signals, the most likely explanation is still that it is a transmission from human technology that happens to be 'weird' in just the right way to fool our filters."

Executive director of the Breakthrough Initiatives, Dr. S. Pete Worden, said, "While we were unable to conclude a genuine technosignature, we are increasingly confident that we have the necessary tools to detect and validate such signatures if they exist."

Breakthrough Listen is making all of the data from the Parkes scans available to the public to examine for themselves. The team has also just published two papers (led by Smith and Sheikh) outlining the details of the data acquisition and analysis, and a research note describing follow-up observations of Proxima Centauri conducted with the Parkes Telescope in April 2021. Listen will continue monitoring of Proxima Centauri, which remains a compelling target for technosignature searches, using a suite of telescopes around the world. And the team continues to refine algorithms to improve their ability to discriminate between "needles" and "hay," including as part of a recently completed crowdsourced data processing competition in collaboration with kaggle.com.

"In the case of this particular candidate," says Siemion, "our analysis suggests that it's highly unlikely that it is really from a transmitter out at Proxima Centauri. However, this is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing signals we've seen to date."

Explore further A mysterious signal looked like a sign of alien technologybut it turned out to be radio interference

More information: Shane Smith et al, A radio technosignature search towards Proxima Centauri resulting in a signal of interest, Nature Astronomy (2021). Shane Smith et al, A radio technosignature search towards Proxima Centauri resulting in a signal of interest,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-021-01479-w Sofia Z. Sheikh et al, Analysis of the Breakthrough Listen signal of interest blc1 with a technosignature verification framework, Nature Astronomy (2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-021-01508-8 Journal information: Nature Astronomy

Provided by Breakthrough Initiatives
Ian Thomson says "Some of the carbon accounting systems and evaluation processes in the UK are farcical and inadequate." Credit: University of Birmingham

Government targets to make the UK carbon neutral by 2050 could be worthless if current carbon accounting systems aren't radically reformed, warns a leading academic.

New research shows a worrying mismatch between the most commonly used measures of carbon and their true impacts, risking bogus net-zero claims, missed opportunities and false positives when it comes to identifying truly effective ways of decarbonising the country.

Under the current international carbon accounting standards used to calculate carbon neutrality, emissions from supply chains, after-sale product use and waste aren't included for businesses and nature-based solutions are often ignored altogether. As a result:

Supermarkets selling food from UK farms risk having higher reported carbon emissions than those that import all their products from abroad.

Schemes that encourage staff to walk and cycle to work may add to a UK business' reported carbon emissions.

An initiative to save peat bogs that will absorb and lock in carbon for millennia is deemed LESS carbon efficient than low-energy light bulbs.

Projects to recycle and reuse won't register as carbon-saving at all.

Professor Ian Thomson, who co-led the research and is an international expert on environmental accounting and expert reviewer for the next IPCC report, is Director of the Lloyds Banking Group Centre for Responsible Business at the University of Birmingham and says:

"Some of the carbon accounting systems and evaluation processes in the UK are farcical and inadequate, lagging well behind net zero thinking and creating a structural barrier to implementing effective solutions. Without robust, reliable and trusted carbon accounting evidence, it's likely that the UK's net-zero carbon transition will be inhibited by poorly-informed decisions based on inappropriate evidence."

The research project is currently working on a program of suggested reforms to carbon accounting protocols that are essential to ensuring any outcome from United Nations' COP26 climate talks, taking place in Glasgow in November, are effectively implemented. He is also working with the Centre for Social and Environmental Accounting Research (CSEAR) on a global survey of accountants to discover how carbon literate they are and evaluate how much climate accounting is being taught worldwide. Ian is also the lead of the Green Economy which is a strand of the Forum for Global Challenges, organized by the University of Birmingham in May 2022.

His new book, "Urgent Business: Five Myths Business Needs to Overcome to Save Itself and the Planet," will be published by Bristol University Press in February 2022.

Explore further Carbon credits and institutional investors are key to a sustainable future

More information: Why current carbon accounting methods threaten to undo UK plans for net zero and a Green Industrial Revolution. Why current carbon accounting methods threaten to undo UK plans for net zero and a Green Industrial Revolution. www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/  rial-revolution.aspx
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Researchers have developed a tiny optical frequency comb, or microcomb, that uses two-mode squeezing to create unconditional entanglement between continuous optical fields. The miniature chip-based device lays the groundwork for mass production of deterministic quantum frequency combs that could be used for quantum computing, quantum metrology and quantum sensing.

Zijiao Yang from the University of Virginia, USA will present the research at the Frontiers in Optics + Laser Science Conference (FiO LS) all-virtual meeting, 01-04 November 2021.

The new microcomb is designed for quantum information protocols based on continuous-variable entangled states which generates entangled states, or qumodes, for entire optical fields rather than single photons. There is great interest in this protocol because, unlike qubit-based methods, there is no requirement for single photons or special optical modulation.

"Unlike qubit approaches, continuous-variable approaches enable the number of entangled qumodes in a quantum state to be scaled up through frequency, time or spatial multiplexing without the need of quantum memory or the repeat-until-success strategies," said Yang. "Our new microcomb could provide a scalable physical platform for continuous-variable quantum computing."

The new quantum microcomb is generated in a 3-millimeter-diameter silica wedge microresonator with a 22 GHz free spectral range on a silicon chip with a single mode tapered fiber used as the coupling waveguide. It uses two-mode squeezing to create unconditional entanglement between continuous optical fields.

To test the new device, the researchers measured 20 qumode pairs created by the new microcomb. They found that the qumodes exhibited a maximum raw squeezing of 1.6 dB and maximum anti-squeezing of 6.5 dB. The raw squeezing is primarily limited by the 83% cavity escape efficiency, 1.7 dB optical loss and approximately 89% photodiode quantum efficiency. The researchers report a total efficiency after the tapered fiber of 60%. The squeezing measurements provide convincing evidence for quantum correlations among the qumodes, but the squeezing level needs to be further increased for quantum information processing applications.

The researchers say that the raw squeezing could be improved by reducing system losses, improving photodiode quantum efficiency and achieving higher resonator-waveguide escape efficiency.

Explore further Researchers open a path toward quantum computing in real-world conditions

More information: Conference: Conference: www.frontiersinoptics.com/home/ Yang's presentation is scheduled for Tuesday, 02 November at 08:30 EDT (UTC04:00).
Figure 1. Study area map and fieldwork sites. (a) The study area maps showing the CSO measurements, the modeling spatial extent, and the Thompson Pass region of the Chugach Mountains. (b) The 2018 fieldwork includes 72 sites with co-located snow water equivalent and snow depth measurements. The remote sensing data sets from 2017 and 2018 are overlain on the map, along with the location of the Upper Tsaina SNOTEL station. Credit: DOI: 10.5194/hess-25-4651-2021

Data gathered by backcountry skiers, avalanche forecasters and other snow recreationists and professionals has the potential to greatly improve snowpack modeling, research by the Oregon State University College of Engineering indicates.

Findings, published in the journal Hydrology and Earth System Sciences, stem from a NASA-funded project known as Community Snow Observations, or CSO, part of NASA's Citizen Science for Earth Systems program.

The paper is the first documentation of CSO's power to make snowpack modeling better through "organic, opportunistic" dataa notable outcome, said researcher David Hill.

"We have shown citizen scientist contributions are very valuable and that we can do great things in the absence of observational network infrastructure," said Hill, professor of civil engineering at OSU. "In this study, we used a new data set collected by CSO participants in coastal Alaska to improve snow depth and snow-water equivalent outputs from a snow process model."

In western North America, snow's role in ecosystem function and water resource management is critical, the scientists say, and around the world more than a billion people live in watersheds where snow is a major component of the hydrologic system.

"Snowpack dynamics in the mountains have a big role in connecting atmospheric processes and the hydrologic cycle with downstream water users," said Chris Cosgrove, an OSU graduate student during the research. "At our Alaska field site, hydroelectric power generation is the principal concern, but in the lower 48, many agricultural producers and municipal water systems rely on seasonal snow."

In 2017, NASA enlisted Hill and doctoral student Ryan Crumley, as well as researchers at the University of Washington, the University of Alaska Fairbanks and the Alaska Division of Geological & Geophysical Surveys, to recruit citizen scientists and incorporate their data into computer models that generate important snowpack information for scientists, engineers and land and watershed managers.

Community Snow Observations kicked off in February 2017 and since then thousands of data entries have been made. Led by Hill, Gabe Wolken of Alaska Fairbanks and Anthony Arendt of the University of Washington, the project first focused primarily on Alaskan snowpacks. Researchers then recruited citizen scientists in the Pacific Northwest and in the Rocky Mountain region.

The work is ongoing and getting involved in Community Snow Observations is easy. A smartphone, the free Mountain Hub application and an avalanche probe with graduated markings in centimeters are the only tools needed.

As citizen scientists make their way through the mountains, they use their avalanche probes to take snow depth readings that they then upload into Mountain Hub, an app for the outdoor community.

That's all there is to it.

"We've now taken our modeling work operational," Hill said. "We serve up real-time grids on snow information at many sites across the United States, including the central Cascades in Oregon, at mountainsnow.org. The general public can go there and view real-time information on snow, snow changes and other things like satellite measurements of snow."

In the recently published research, Hill and Crumley, who's now at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, teamed with Wolken, Arendt, Cosgrove and OSU graduate student Christina Aragon to look at how snowpack models for the Thompson Pass region of Alaska's Chugach Mountains improved when citizen science measurements were incorporated.

"Improvements were seen in 62% to 78% of the simulations depending on the model year," Aragon said. "Our results suggest that even modest measurement efforts by citizen scientists have the potential to improve efforts to model snowpack processes in high mountain environments."

Information about snow distribution reaches scientists from many sources, including telemetry stations and remote sensing via light detection and ranging, or LIDAR, but the simplicity of the citizen science data gathering approach allows for many gaps to be filled, the scientists say.

"Snow depth measurements can be made accurately and quickly by anyone with a measuring device," Crumley said. "The potential of mobilizing a new type of data set collected by people like snowshoers and snow machiners is significant because those folks often go to remote mountain environments where so far there haven't been many observations recorded. All of those people can gather data at scales much greater than the capacity of a small group of scientists."

Explore further How much water do snowpacks hold? A better way to answer the question

More information: Ryan L. Crumley et al, Assimilation of citizen science data in snowpack modeling using a new snow data set: Community Snow Observations, Hydrology and Earth System Sciences (2021). Ryan L. Crumley et al, Assimilation of citizen science data in snowpack modeling using a new snow data set: Community Snow Observations,(2021). DOI: 10.5194/hess-25-4651-2021
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

Alvarez studies collective and interpersonal violence. From 2001 until 2003 he was the founding director of the Martin-Springer Institute for Teaching the Holocaust, Tolerance, and Humanitarian Values. His latest book, "Unstable Ground: Climate Change, Conflict, and Genocide," looks at the human impact of climate change and its potential to provoke ethnic conflict, war and genocide.

On Nov. 1, the much-anticipated United Nations summit on Climate Change, known as COP26, is set to take place in Glasgow, Scotland. Its goal is to devise a global strategy on cutting emissions to keep alive the possibility of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, a Paris Accord threshold beyond which the consequences become far more severe and even catastrophic. Some, such as U.S. Climate Envoy John Kerry, have suggested this conference is one of our last chances to prevent some of the worst outcomes of climate change. To add to this sense of urgency, the 2021 Lancet report on Health and Climate Change, released in early October, lays out in stark and grim detail the myriad ways in which the direct and indirect consequences of climate change pose significant threats to the health and well-being of humans around the world on a scale we have not experienced in the modern world. Whether through drought, extreme heat waves, food insecurity, lack of potable water, changing disease vectors or any number of other impacts, large swaths of the globe will increasingly suffer from unhealthy and dangerous conditions brought about by climate change that threaten to overwhelm the ability of communities and governments to cope and adapt to these emerging challenges.

To add to this grim forecast, not long after The Lancet report was released, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence distributed the first-ever National Intelligence Estimate on Climate Change, which warns of global instability and heightened tensions and conflict between nations as the consequences of a warming world. Representing the collective assessment of all 18 U.S. intelligence agencies about the risks these changes hold for national security, the report not only identifies regions and nations that are particularly vulnerable to instability and conflict, but also points out that such situations tend to produce large number of refugees that are vulnerable to exploitation and persecution, can destabilize surrounding regions and create massive humanitarian disasters.

These reports come on the heels of earlier publications that only serve to highlight the crisis we find ourselves facing. One U.S. government report released in 2020 detailed the financial and human costs of climate change for the United States and concluded that climate change will cost hundreds of billions of dollars annually and will result in thousands of additional deaths every year from the direct and indirect consequences of a warmer world. Of key importance are the often interconnected ways in which climate change will negatively impact infrastructure and transportation, energy demand and production, domestic and international trade, agriculture, fishing, tourism, water availability, health care and many other economic sectors of society. These kinds of consequences are not limited to the United States but are truly global in their impact. There is no nation or region of the world not affected by climate change, although as these reports make clear, the negative impacts tend to be concentrated among nations and populations that are the poorest, most vulnerable and least equipped to handle such challenges.

As someone who studies collective violence, genocide and mass atrocity, I have long been concerned with the ways in which climate change can amplify intolerance and persecution and facilitate violent conflict, including war and genocide. Collective violence doesn't just erupt spontaneously but is brought about by specific triggers and situations, and many of these relate to the consequences of climate change. Many past and contemporary conflicts and wars, for example, have revolved around protecting or acquiring scarce or diminishing resources, especially fresh potable water. Given that around one quarter of the world's population is currently dealing with extreme water stress and critical shortages, a situation expected to worsen dramatically in the coming years, we can easily understand how access to fresh water can become a flash point for conflict. In fact, this precise issue has already strained relations and heightened tensions between many nations, including India and Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, and Yemen and Saudi Arabia, to name just a few examples.

Population displacement is another potential source of conflict since all estimates point to a significant increase in the number of people dislocated in the coming years and decades. Sometimes it will happen because of catastrophic weather events such as flooding and hurricanes, while other times it will occur because of slower climate change processes, such as drought, that will progressively drive people from their homes, communities and livelihoods. It appears that the human climate niche is shrinking dramatically, and a lot more people will be on the move in the coming years and decades as they search for security, safety and opportunity.

All these challenges will strain the ability of governments to meet the needs of their citizens, heighten tensions among and between communities, populations and nations, and encourage othering, scapegoating and persecution of those defined as different, dangerous or simply superfluous. In short, as nations struggle to cope with catastrophic weather events, diminishing resources, environmental degradation, population dislocation and various other climate-induced problems, violence becomes not only possible, but also more likely. It is a situation tailor-made for the violent persecution of vulnerable population groups such as refugees and racial, religious and ethnic minorities.

These are dire scenarios and truly force us to confront the central crisis of our era. To prevent the worst outcomes of climate change, it is clear that we need to collectively implement far more aggressive steps than we have yet undertaken. This recognition seems to be gaining momentum as individuals, communities and political and social leaders around the world appear increasingly willing to confront hard choices. There is also hope to be found in the resilience displayed by many communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. While social media and news reports have often focused on those individuals, leaders and communities that have fallen prey to misinformation, hostility and resistance to public health measures, we should also remember that the vast majority of people have not reacted in such negative and hostile ways. Across the globe, we have seen individuals and communities work together to care for and support each other in often dire circumstances. Countless people from all walks of life have sacrificed and risked their own personal safety and comfort to provide aid and assistance for the sick and to preserve the basic functioning of society. Persecution, violence and anarchy are not inevitable consequences of climate change, but instead reflect the choices we make individually and collectively. How we choose to respond at this inflection point in the history of humanity will be critical for determining the kind of environment, planet and civilization that we leave for our children and their descendants.

Explore further Pentagon, intelligence agencies detail climate threat to security
Henrik Barmentlo at work at the Living Lab, accompanied by Professor Martina Vijver. Credit: Edwin Giesbers

The widely used pesticide thiacloprid can cause a large-scale decline in freshwater insects. This was discovered by researchers from the Living Lab in Leiden. For three months they counted the flying insects in the 36 ditches of the lab. Their research appeared in PNAS.

In the ditches of the Living Lab, Henrik Barmentlo and his colleagues exposed freshwater insects to different concentrations of thiacloprid. This substance belongs to the neonicotinoids, the world's most widely used group of insecticides. "We used realistic concentrations," says Barmentlo. They correspond to concentrations we actually measure in the surface water.

Dramatic decline in all species

That neonicotinoids can be harmful to many insects had already been proven. But there was no conclusive evidence that these insecticides are at least partly responsible for the large-scale insect decline.

Therefore, in a unique experiment, the researchers caught no less than 55,574 insects that flew out of the lab's 36 thiacloprid-contaminated ditches over a period of three months. Afterwards, they identified all specimens. They compared the results with nine control ditches, without added thiacloprid. Barmentlo: "We saw dramatic declines in all the species groups studied, such as dragonflies, beetles and sedges. Both in absolute numbers and in total biomass. In the most extreme scenario, the diversity of the most species-rich group, the dance flies, even dropped to a single species."

Consequences for the whole ecosystem

And that while all these insects have an important role in their ecosystem. For example, they serve as food for many insect-eating bird species. Previously, other researchers had already discovered that these bird species occur in lower numbers when there are more neonicotinoids in the water. Barmentlo: "So it is quite possible that these bird species suffer from a lack of insects, or in other words: food."

Barmentlo calls the results alarming. "Given the urgency of the large-scale decline in insects, we think the mass use of these insecticides should be reconsidered. In the EU, the use of thiacloprid was banned last year, but not yet in other parts of the world. In order to protect freshwater insects and all the life that depends on them, we must stop using these neonicotinoides as soon as possible."

Explore further Effect of insecticides on damselflies greater than expected

More information: S. Henrik Barmentlo et al, Experimental evidence for neonicotinoid driven decline in aquatic emerging insects, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2021). Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences S. Henrik Barmentlo et al, Experimental evidence for neonicotinoid driven decline in aquatic emerging insects,(2021). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2105692118
The Australian government claims the countrys natural sinks offset its emissions elsewhere. Credit: Norman Allchin/Shutterstock

Fresh emissions targets from Saudi Arabia and Australiatwo of the world's largest fossil-fuel producersare due to arrive just in time for global climate talks in Glasgow. These would commit the two countries to reducing domestic emissions to net zero by around mid-centurythough both are expected to continue exporting fossil fuels for decades to come.

For the leaders of countries and governments that produce fossil fuels, UN climate summits are a public relations boon. They get to talk up their commitments to a green and clean future without being held to account for their disproportionate role in fuelling the problem. It's hard for experts, let alone the average citizen, to tell fact from fiction.

Because it's only domestic greenhouse gas emissions that are counted for the purpose of the UN climate negotiations, burning exported fossil fuels counts towards the emissions of the importing country. Accordingly, the role that major fossil fuel exporters like Saudi Arabia (oil and natural gas) and Australia (coal and natural gas) play in stoking global heating is not accurately reflected in the talks.

Unlike some areas of international cooperation, like limiting the spread of nuclear weapons, climate-change summits aim to control something which evades easy calculation. Nuclear weapons and their production facilities are tangible, chunky and relatively few in number. Greenhouse gases are everywhere, invisible and caused by lots of different processesfrom cow digestion to steel production.

These gases are also in constant flux. Emissions are produced from ubiquitous sources, but there are also natural systemsespecially forests and soilthat suck carbon dioxide (CO) from the atmosphere. These natural removals of carbon are known as sinks. That is why scientists and governments speak of net greenhouse gas emissions: emissions minus removals.

It's relatively easy to monitor aggregate levels of CO in the global atmosphere. This is why scientists have a clear picture of how badly off-track the world is with tackling the climate crisis. But all this complexity concerning sources and sinks makes it easy for governments and corporations to obfuscate their real contribution to climate change.

For example, countries with lots of uninhabited land, like Australia, have become especially adept at gaming the systems of accounting for net emissions of CO. Australia effectively gets credited for large amounts of carbon stored in forests, which make it look like overall emissions have been falling, even though emissions from burning fossil fuels have been growing for decades.

One sure-fire way of telling whether a government official is hoodwinking you when lauding their government's climate credentials is to look upstream and see whether they're producing the coal, oil or gas that ultimately causes about three-quarters of global emissions, and if so, what they're doing about it.

The production gap helps reveal how serious many national net zero pledges really are. Credit: SEI et al. The Production Gap: 2021 Report, Author provided

Extracted fossil fuels are much easier to monitor and verify than greenhouse gas emissions. They come from a relatively small number of sources and are already measured by multiple parties for a range of purposes. Customers need proof that the shipments they receive reflect their contracts with suppliers. Governments collect production information to assess a company's compliance with licensing requirements, tax liabilities and customs obligations.

Fossil-fuel infrastructure and projects are even easier to monitor. Oil rigs, gas pipelines and coal mines are large, making them easy to see both on the ground and via satellite. These features make it simpler to hold fossil fuel-producing countries to account for their contribution to global heating, compared with the more slippery measure of net emissions.

The fossil fuel production gap

In a new report, the UN Environment Programme and other research institutions found that governments plan to produce more than twice the amount of fossil fuels in 2030 than would be consistent with limiting warming to 1.5C above pre-industrial levelsthe goal of the Paris Agreement. Countries' fossil-fuel production plans and projections in aggregate even exceed, by close to 10%, the levels of global fossil-fuel production implied by their own climate pledges.

Shockingly, governments are pouring fuel on the fire. G20 countries have directed more than US$300 billion (218 billion) in new funds towards supporting fossil-fuel production, such as subsidies and tax breaks, since the beginning of the pandemicabout 10% more than they have invested in clean energy.

The report echoes recent calls for greater transparency around fossil-fuel production and the supportfinancial and otherwisegovernments provide at home and abroad. Research by various organizations has provided a better understanding of this, but the information is incomplete, inconsistent and scattered.

Governments could help by disclosing plans, funding and projections for fossil-fuel production, and how they intend to manage a just transition away from coal, oil and gas. Fossil-fuel companies should disclose their spending and infrastructure plans, as well as all the greenhouse gas emissions their product is responsible for, and financial risks to their business from climate change.

Numerous environmental organizations are working to build a global picture of the sources and flows of fossil fuels. So even if governments fail to illuminate the activities of fossil-fuel companies and their role in it, they can still be named and shamed.

Talking only about a country's net greenhouse gas emissions gives fossil fuel-producing companies and governments a free pass to bullshit their way through the climate negotiations. If we want to force the PR managers to really earn their money, we should turn the conversation to fossil-fuel production.

Explore further Study: Fossil fuel plans would far overshoot climate goals

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
The bison had all but been driven out of Europe by hunting and the destruction of its habitats.

Hoof prints in the mud, tree bark nibbled away: even if the newest residents of Romania's Carpathian mountain forest shy away from visitors, their traces are there for those who know where to look.

They are signs of the success of a project to reintroduce bison to this region after a centuries-long absence, key to keeping the hairy giants off lists of critically endangered species.

Bison had all but been driven out of Europe by hunting and the destruction of its habitats, but their reappearance in Romania has brought back a key component of the region's ecosystem.

Under gentle autumn sunshine on the edge of a centuries-old wood, young forest warden Matei Miculescu is on the lookout for members of the Carpathian herd.

The animals can be hard to spot, having been tempted further into the forest by the abundant vegetation and the possibility of extending their habitat.

Miculescu says the animals are thriving in the forest, in contrast to captivity which "creates the risk of inbreeding" and weakens their chances of survival.

Nowadays, around 6,000 bison, Europe's largest mammal and a distant cousin of the American buffalo, can be found on the continent.

Most of them are on the Polish-Belarussian border where efforts to revive the population got underway in the 1950s.

Romania welcomed bison back in 2014 in the southwestern Armenis region, more than 200 years after it was last seen there.

Born in captivity in other parts of Europewhere they had been given names like Kiwi, Bilbo and Mildredthey were transferred to Romania in 16 separate stages.

Nowadays, around 6,000 bison, Europe's largest mammal and a distant cousin of the American buffalo, can be found on the continent.

Cutting human links

Thanks to successful reproduction in the wild, "around 105 bison now live freely in the Tarcu mountains and have settled in well," says Marina Druga, head of the project led jointly by the WWF and Rewilding Europe.

"In the past two years, there haven't been any deaths in their ranks," says Druga, explaining that the goal is to get to a population "of 250 individuals in five years' time".

The programme is well established: first the animals spend several weeks being re-acclimatised to life in the wild and are only then released and left to fend for themselves.

They can currently be found making use of around 8,000 hectares in a protected area which stretches over 59,000 hectares.

The southern Carpathians present ideal conditions: "a vast region with a thinly spread human population and no intensive agriculture," says Wanda Olech-Piasecka from the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Since 2014 there have been 38 bison calves born in the area.

"Without them, the project would have no future," says Miculescu, who recognises each of the creatures by their horns of the colour of their fur.

But those running the project have resisted giving the calves names.

Since they have been born in the wild, all links with humans should be cut, explains Druga.

Their reappearance in Romania has brought back a key component of the region's ecosystem.

Architects of the forest

The WWF says the next step to make the population viable in the long term will be to introduce bison into other parts of the Carpathians and establish a network of populations.

Over the long term, the animals need a large habitat in order avoid conflict over territory with human populations or within their own herds.

Along with benefitting the bison themselves, advocates say that this example of "rewilding" is also a boon for the wider ecosystem, bringing benefits for some 600 species from microorganisms to large carnivores.

"They change the landscape and architecture of the forest by stopping the spread of invasive tree species, spreading seeds for hundreds of plants and creating paths smaller animals use to access food," explains Druga.

Weaker or sick members of the herd can themselves serve as prey for wolves or bears, who in turn will be less likely to stray into human settlements in search of food, a problem which has grown in recent years in Romania.

Even those who watch them closely have sometimes been surprised by the effects the bison's presence can have.

"Birds collect discarded bits of fur to isolate their nests while frogs can use bison hoof prints to jump from one pond to another," says Miculescu.

Explore further Proper etiquette in the presence of bison

 2021 AFP
In this Dec. 28, 2010, file photo, a group of manatees are in a canal where discharge from a nearby Florida Power & Light plant warms the water in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Florida is experiencing an unprecedented die-off of manatees this year, with 959 documented deaths as of mid-October. Credit: AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File

Florida fishing guide and environmental activist Paul Fafeita says a highlight for his charter customers is spotting the manatees that forage for seagrass in shallow waters. It's not so thrilling when they come across the emaciated carcass of a manatee that starved to death.

"It's not good when you've got clients on the boat and all of a sudden there's a dead manatee," Fafeita, president of the Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County, said during a recent excursion in the Indian River Lagoon, a favorite hangout for the marine mammals along Florida's east coast. "They're wanting to see them. They don't want to see them dead."

Florida is experiencing an unprecedented die-off of manatees this year, with 959 documented deaths as of Oct. 1. That's already more than any full year on record, and colder weather soon to come could bring another wave of deaths in a population that numbers between 7,500 and 10,200 along both Florida coasts, according to state estimates.

Manatee deaths this year will likely double the 593 recorded in 2020, and will far outnumber the latest five-year average of 146 deaths in Florida, according to state figures, with no end to the die-off in sight.

"There is a huge sense of urgency," said Gil McRae, director of the state Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. "We're uncertain how long it's (high manatee deaths) going to be."

The reason? Seagrass on which the so-called sea cows depend also is dying as water quality declines due to fertilizer runoff, wastewater discharges and polluted water that is increasingly diverted on purpose from Lake Okeechobee to coastal estuaries.

These manmade pollutants can cause algae blooms so thick that seagrass can't get the sunlight it needs to survive, jeopardizing the manatees' main food supply. Since 2009 about 58% of the seagrass has been lost in the Indian River Lagoon, state estimates show.

"The cold hard fact is: Florida is at a water quality and climate crossroads, and manatees are our canary in the coal mine," said J.P. Brooker, Florida director for the Ocean Conservancy environmental group, in an opinion piece published by The Invading Sea, a collaboration of 26 Florida news outlets focused on climate change impact.

"They are dying off in record numbers because we humans have made Florida waters inhospitable to them," Brooker said. "It's not just our manatees at risk, it's a coast-wide ecological problem."

State and federal environmental officials are beginning a manatee habitat restoration program, armed with $8 million in state money approved this year by Florida legislators. They say with cooler winter months on the way, the tendency of manatees to congregate in warmer waters could mean many more of the creatures will starve before the restoration work is completed.

"Seagrass restoration doesn't happen overnight. We can't really start planting seagrass until we have water quality improvements," said Michael Sole, vice chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. "The winter is coming."

The commission is asking state lawmakers to approve another $7 million in the upcoming legislative session for seagrass restoration, manatee rehabilitation centers and other projects. At a committee hearing last week, McRae said researchers also are studying whether humans can feed manatees without harming them.

"Those of you that have paid attention to feeding wildlife know that almost universally, it does more harm than good," McRae told lawmakers. But if the manatees' numbers keep plummeting, "there's a possibility some level of supplemental feeding might be in order," he said.

Manatees have struggled to withstand humans for decades. Boat strikes kill dozens of the slow-moving animals despite no-wake zones in areas the animals frequent, and many more bear lifelong scars from such encounters. There are also threats from red tide outbreaksand unusually cold weather.

In this Thursday, April 2, 2020, file photo, a manatee comes up for air is it swims in the Stranahan River, in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Florida is experiencing an unprecedented die-off of manatees this year, with 959 documented deaths as of mid-October. Credit: AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File

They are gentle round-tailed giants, weighing as much as 1,200 pounds (550 kilograms) and living as long as 65 years or so. Manatees are Florida's official state marine mammal and are closely related to elephants.

Perhaps the best-known and oldest manatee in captivity, a male named Snooty, died at age 69, drowning after a hatch malfunctioned in his aquarium at a Bradenton museum in 2017.

Manatees were listed as endangered beginning in 1966 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, a designation downgraded to the less-stringent threatened category in 2016. A new push is on to list manatees as endangered once again to increase their long-term recovery chances.

"Florida manatees desperately need us to help them by cleaning up and protecting their habitat," said Jaclyn Lopez, Florida director and senior attorney at The Center for Biological Diversity, a St. Petersburg-based nonprofit intent on saving imperiled species. The center and other groups plan to sue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to boost habitat protections for the manatee.

So far, the threatened designation has remained in place. A 2017 federal-state analysis pegged the chance of manatee extinction in Florida at less than a half-percent within the next 100 years.

Yet to environmental groups, the struggle of the manatee is a signal that humans are wrecking the coastal estuaries they and many other creatures need to survive.

The state Department of Environmental Protection has set in motion a program aimed at sharply reducing the load of harmful releases into the Indian River Lagoon by 2035.

The focus is on cutting introduction of nitrogen and phosphorous that is responsible for the seagrass-killing algae blooms. Projects to date have reduced releases of these nutrients by 37% of the ultimate goal, according to the state environmental agency.

Meanwhile, efforts to rescue and rehabilitate starving manatees continue at locations such as the SeaWorld theme park in Orlando to the Tampa zoo.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium in September announced plans for a $10 million manatee rescue and rehabilitation facility, the fifth of its kind in Florida.

A coalition of 16 environmental and business groups called this summer for Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to declare the manatee die-off an emergency, which could focus resources and attention on the problem. DeSantis hasn't done it, contending at a news conference it would "spook a lot of people" and possibly trigger economic harm.

"We have a lot of money at our disposal," the governor said.

Back out on the water, fishing guide and activist Fafeita said it's not just the manateesseagrass reduction also affects other species such as blue crabs and speckled sea trout.

"You know, the list just goes on and on and on," Fafeita said. "Right now, our big concern is the manatee. We're not going to catch that many fish this year. It's affecting us some. The true impact to be next year."

Explore further 2021 broke the Florida record for manatee deaths in a year in just 6 months

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Employees may have all the leverage in today's job market, but looking for work is still a grind that must be managed correctly, according to a human resources expert at Florida Atlantic University.

U.S. workers quit their jobs at a rate of 2.9 percent in August, the highest level on records that go back to 2000. The COVID-19 pandemic has spawned what some economists call "The Great Resignation," a mass exodus of employees in search of new positions that offer more money, flexibility and satisfaction.

"There's a lot of optimism, but the reality is the job search is a process that involves a lot of setbacks and difficulties," said Michael B. Harari, Ph.D., an associate professor of management programs in FAU's College of Business. "Faced with these hurdles, it's easy for people to get frustrated and give up."

A successful job search includes consistent effort and a focused approach, according to Harari, who teaches human resource management courses and researches talent acquisition and employability.

"Treat it like a job, in a sense," he said. "Put it on your calendar so that every Monday and Thursday from 9 to 10 a.m., for example, you're working on your job search."

"But don't apply for anything and everything," he added. "Look for jobs that are a good fit so that you can make a good impression on prospective employers."

Surveys from hiring managers consistently show that employers are looking for candidates who have the knowledge and skills to perform the job, as well as good interpersonal skills and a willingness to work hard.

If the job search is successful, candidates will find themselves in front of employers, but many job interviews now are conducted virtually, which can be a new experience for some people, according to Harari.

For example, eye contact in a virtual interview means looking at the camera on the computer rather than at the person on the screen.

"That takes some practice and getting used to," he said.

Meanwhile, employers need to adapt to the decided shift in the job market. During a labor surplus, organizations hold the upper hand, but in the current applicant-driven climate, managing the candidate experience is more important than ever, Harari said.

Employers must be mindful of candidates' time, be polite and courteous, get back to candidates in a timely manner and treat the candidates fairly, according to Harari.

"The research is very clear," Harari said. "When the candidate experience is managed well, candidates are more likely to accept jobs when offered, they're less likely to drop out of your applicant pool and they're likely to benefit your applicant pool in other ways, like recommending their friends to apply for jobs with your organization."

Finally, both candidates and employers would be wise to recognize that the current climate is likely only temporary, according to Harari.

"Although things are very favorable toward the job seeker now, it's not as though the rules have changed for good," he said. "This is something that ebbs and flows over time."

Explore further Study shows benefit of employees managing themselves
A tropical rainforest covering the lower section of Mount Kinabalu, an iconic cradle of biodiversity in Borneo. Nebraskas Melissa Whitman and colleagues have found that plant species growing in nutrient-poor, metal-rich soils on the mountain can occupy substantially larger ranges than expected. Credit: University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Borneo's Mount Kinabalu stands as a geologic monument to plant diversity, laying claim to thousands of speciesincluding the world's largest flower, a grapevine-sapping parasite that grows 3-plus feet wide and draws pollinating flies with a stench of decay.

But on certain slopes of the 13,435-foot mountain, that botanical cradle becomes a crucible, testing the adaptability and resilience of flora in a way that few other places on the planet can. Covering about 5% of those slopes is ultramafic soil: nutrient-poor, water-deprived and rich in heavy metalschromium, iron, nickelthat are toxic to most, but not quite all, plants. It's the sort of unique environment that spawns carnivorous pitcher plant species and other fantastical species found only on the equator-straddling island of Southeast Asia.

According to a recent study led by the University of NebraskaLincoln's Melissa Whitman and Sabrina Russo, that hardscrabble, hard-won existence might also grant the ultramafic species an elevational versatility and stress tolerance that could prove favorable amid ongoing climate change.

"Many of these ultramafic species are just some of the most fabulous plants," said Whitman, a doctoral alumna of Nebraska who conducted the research for her dissertation.

Whitman's early fascination with the plants only deepened after diving into a series of thick monographs that contain more than a century's worth of taxonomic records on the multitudinous species native to Mount Kinabalu.

"I began to randomly flip open to a page, look at a species, read the description, and think about it," she said. "And I began noticing that the ultramafic species tended to have differences in the descriptions of where they're found, forming distinct communities."

Intrigued, she reached out to Reed Beaman, son of the monographs' late author, John, who had dedicated decades to the painstaking task of cataloging Mount Kinabalu's botanical bounty. Later, Whitman would attend an academic conference in Borneo itself, where she met other researchers who have likewise made Mount Kinabalu their life's work.

While there, Whitman joined some of her fellow ecologists in scaling the mountain, overlaying the copious knowledge she had gleaned from the monographs with the sight, smell and touch of experience. At the base, the ecologists were greeted by the towering trees and ropelike vines of tropical rainforest. Further up, they entered an envelope of constant fog, encountering mosses and ferns and an assortment of orchid species. Beyond that, a marked drop in the height of the canopy, with trees shrinking and shrubs emerging, then predominating. Finally, above the clouds, a summit of exposed granitewhat Whitman called "a very bizarre place" that can alternate between mist-blanketed sogginess and freezing, desert-like dryness.

"It's just very interesting to experience these transitions in the landscape and then take notes of what species occur where," Whitman said. "Some of the ideas that went into this paper came just from walking slowly and thinking, "OK, I observe this while hiking, but how much of this is actually expressed via the numbers?'"

Some of those numbers would come to define her study: 3,060 plant species from 193 families, accompanied by the minimum and maximum elevations at which they were found. Also, crucially, 1, 2 and 3a 1 for species seen exclusively or mostly in ultramafic soils, a 2 for species occasionally spotted in them, a 3 for species never known to set down roots in them.

Given Mount Kinabalu's unusually high proportion of the harsh soils, the researchers saw it as an ideal place to analyze how the earth itself might be regulating the ranges of the plants sprouting from it.

"It seems hard to believe, but the idea that soil fertility is important in determining species distributions at multiple spatial scales is only recently gaining more emphasis in ecology," said Russo, professor of biological sciences and Whitman's doctoral adviser at Nebraska.

"That's something I found very much absent from a lot of the macroecological research literature," Whitman said. "It was this entire focus on climate, but almost nothing about the soil. And that's a huge factor."

The mountain also provided a test case for Rapoport's rule, which rose to prominence in the early 1990s and has been a subject of debate among ecologists ever since. The rule proposes that the range sizes of organisms generally increase alongside latitudeaway from the equator, toward the polesand altitude, so that species enjoy larger ranges at higher elevations.

Whitman and Russo wanted to know not just if the elevation-based trend held for plant species on the iconic Mount Kinabalu, but also whether deviations or caveats might emerge when comparing the ultramafic vs. non-ultramafic species.

"In other parts of the globe where you have ultramafic soil, it tends to be within a limited elevation range," Whitman said, noting that Kinabalu's patches of the ultramafic instead stretch from its base to about 10,000 feet above sea level. "So this is a unique opportunity where you can tease apart: Is it the elevation that's causing these differences in range size, or is it the soil?"

The verdict? Across all 3,060 species, the average range size did increase with elevation, as Rapoport's rule would predict. When splitting the analysis by the species' favored soil type, though, a more nuanced, interesting picture snapped into focus.

The team discovered, to Whitman's surprise, that the ultramafic speciesa group of specialists if ever there was onegenerally boast larger range sizes than would be expected at a given elevation. Those ranges are consequently more likely to overlap, meaning that many stretches of the mountain feature a richer variety of ultramafic species than expected. In contrast, the ranges of non-ultramafic species tend to be smaller than anticipated, despite accounting for 62% of the plant species on the mountain.

Whitman and Russo said the findings suggest that, in evolving tolerance to the severe resource limitations imposed by take-no-prisoners soil, ultramafic species may also better contend with similar stressors thrown at them by high altitudes, climate and other factors. That spillover resilience may have widened the breadth of ecological niches they can successfully adapt to, enabling them to expand their geographic ranges in the process. Even former mining sites are not off-limits to them, as Whitman witnessed during her summit of the mountain.

But with that climb having exposed her to the jarring differences among the verdant, tropical ecosystem of the mountain's base, the temperate cloud forests of its mid-elevations, and the alpine scrublands near its peak, Whitman suspected that ecosystem boundaries were shaping distributions, too. So she also developed several models to gauge the potential influence of the so-called vegetation zones.

"The geographic distance isn't that far," Whitman said, "but the difference in climate is relatively huge for these plants."

Sure enough, she found that species distributions were best explained by a model that incorporated both soil type and the boundaries between vegetation zones, marking each as a critical factor in determining those elevational distributions. The model also indicated that those boundaries occur at higher elevations for the ultramafic than the non-ultramafic species.

"Prior research on vegetation zone boundaries was often based off patterns observed for the majority of species, and ultramafic species are a distinct minority," Whitman said. "So that's probably why that detail was missed."

One lingering question: whether the ultramafic species' tolerance of extremes, soil and otherwise, can help them contend with one of the most abrupt shifts in climate the planet has ever seen. As temperatures continue rising in response to the accumulation of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, a species' preferred climate conditions may shift up to higher altitudes, the researchers said, whether on Mount Kinabalu or other peaks.

Species with wider elevational ranges and more inherent tolerance to heat or water stress may find it more feasible to weather changes in their own microclimates, the researchers said. That would seem to position ultramafic species as winners, or at least survivors, of a future that could look very different than the present. As Whitman and Russo were quick to point out, though, only time will tellespecially if the poor-soil specialists find themselves in more direct competition for resources with their non-ultramafic counterparts.

"You could say that ultramafic plants don't have to worry about climate change, because they're already adapted to stress," Whitman said. "But in actuality, they may have to worry about it, in that you could see distributional shifts in other plant species that may affect the competitive landscape."

The researchers detailed their findings in the journal Ecography.

Explore further Ancient soils considered for impact on diverse flora

More information: Melissa Whitman et al, Edaphic specialization and vegetation zones define elevational rangesizes for Mt Kinabalu regional flora, Ecography (2021). Journal information: Ecography Melissa Whitman et al, Edaphic specialization and vegetation zones define elevational rangesizes for Mt Kinabalu regional flora,(2021). DOI: 10.1111/ecog.05873
Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

A team of researchers from the University of Florida, led by Dr. Philip Feng, in collaboration with Prof. Steven Shaw in Florida Institute of Technology, has now demonstrated extremely high-efficient mechanical signal amplification in nanoscale mechanical resonators operating at radio frequency. The devices employed in this research might be the tiniest mechanical resonators exhibiting amplification, and the gain achieved is the highest known for all mechanical devices reported to date.

The displacement amplification is realized based on "parametric pumping or parametric amplification" of mechanical motion. Parametric amplification can be mainly achieved when a parameter of system is modulated by twice multiples of the frequency. A simple example of parametric amplification is a child playing a swing. The child can periodically stand and squat twice in a single period of the swing to increase or "amplify" the swing amplitude without anyone helping to push.

The researchers have realized the parametric amplification in the tiny nanoscale devices. The nanoscale drumhead mechanical parametric amplifiers demonstrated in this research consist of an atomically thin two-dimensional semiconducting molybdenum disulfide (MoS 2 ) membrane where the thickness of the drumheads is 0.7, 2.8, 7.7 nanometer with 1.8 micrometer in diameter and 0.00180.020 m3 in volume. The nanodrums are fabricated by transferring nanosheet exfoliated from bulk crystal over microcavities to make suspended atomically thin nanodrums.

The researchers play the nanodrums using an amplitude modulated laser. When the laser gently "hit" the nanodrums, the light energy is converted to heat, and thermal stress can parametrically "play" or "pump" the device if the thermal actuation has twice the frequency of the resonance frequency of the device. This parametric pumping process makes the nanodrums vibrate with larger amplitude, similar to percussion instruments in much larger scale. Researchers find the photothermal effects in the semiconducting MoS 2 nanodrums are highly effective compared to other hypothetical nanoscale devices composed of mainstream semiconducting materials such as silicon thanks to intriguing thermal, optical, and mechanical properties of atomically thin MoS 2 nanosheets.

The nanoscale devices exhibit giant parametric amplification gains up to 3600, the highest measured parametric gain known for all nano/microscale mechanical resonators reported to date. The giant parametric gain is stemmed from ultimately thin nature of the device. The devices have thickness comparable to size of atom which leads to the extremely high parametric gain in tiny mechanical devices.

The highly efficient parametric amplification could be adapted to detect ultrasmall mechanical motion. In nanoscale mechanical devices, it has been challenging to have an efficient displacement signal transduction method. It has often connected to electronic circuits, but displacement signals are often superposed on the much larger electrical background and noise from readout electronics. Using parametric amplification, it is possible to first amplify the signal directly in the mechanical domain before electrical transduction, allowing us to alleviate excess amplifier noise.

The additional benefit of the parametric amplification is that the parametric amplification compensates intrinsic energy loss of the resonators, which confines mechanical vibration within a very narrow frequency bandwidth. Compared to the frequency response before the parametric amplification, linewidth or bandwidth narrowing factors up to 180,000 have been demonstrated in the nanoscale resonator, greatly improving the capability of selecting the resonance frequency. The researchers explained that the narrow linewidth is critical for some applications, including building a precise clock, and thus the parametric amplification demonstrated in this research would help to build high performance timing devices.

The researchers strongly believe this work will be of broad and great interest and will have a significant impact in the areas of emerging atomically thin materials and devices, nanoelectromechanical (NEMS) sensors and actuators, parametric operation of nanoscale resonators, and nanomechanics. The researchers can also expect that, when implemented with careful design and improved engineering control, such tiny devices will become a powerful approach and possibly a new paradigm for realizing high-performance sensing and other information processing devices, in both classical and quantum engineering, metrology, and other applications where parametric amplification will play important roles.

This work is now formally accepted in Applied Physics Reviews.

Explore further Researchers demonstrate measurement system able to resolve quantum fluctuations
HMS Warrior (1860) at Portsmouth Naval Dockyard (with the Spinnaker Tower also visible). Credit: Strobilomyces/Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Logbooks kept by sailors on board the UK warship HMS Warrior in the 1860s could soon help reveal a more complete picture of how Earth's climate has changed since pre-industrial times.

As on other naval ships of its era, Warrior's crew had begun regularly measuring air temperature, among other weather observations, to bolster their knowledge of winds and currents and make rudimentary forecasts in order to reach their destinations all around the globe.

These paper records will now be digitized by citizen scientists in a new Weather Rescue at Sea project launched today (26 October) by scientists at the University of Reading.

The resulting 1860s and 1870s temperature data from the Atlantic, Pacific and Indian oceans will expand existing long-term climate records, and allow computer analysis to improve comparisons between the climate now and before the Industrial Revolution in the early 19th century.

Professor Ed Hawkins, an NCAS climate scientist at the University of Reading who is co-leading the project, said: "Those on board ships sailing into historic battles or trying to reach unexplored lands would have been concentrating on the task at hand, but little did they know that the weather records they were keeping to help them on their journeys would be goldmines for scientists nearly 200 years later.

"The records we need to rescue are among the very earliest coordinated weather measurements and would have been penned by hand by sailors, yet they are no less valuable now in the age of supercomputers to understanding climate change."

Praveen Teleti, an NCAS research scientist at the University of Reading and co-lead of the project, said: "Transcribing these records would take one person many lifetimes, but with the help of an army of volunteers we can complete the task. This is a chance for members of the public to be part of a collective mission to use history to help us understand the future of our planet."

HMS Warrior

HMS Warrior, a 40-gun, steam-powered armored frigate, was built around 1860 at the start of an arms race between the UK and France that triggered a rapid advance in the design of naval ships. It is now a tourist attraction as a museum ship in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Among other vessels, Weather Rescue at Sea volunteers will also explore records from ships involved in the Shimonoseki Campaign of 1863-64. This saw naval forces from Great Britain, the Netherlands and the United States engage in a series of battles with Japanese ships over control the Shimonoseki Straita strategic passage for trade in Japanese waters.

The records rescued from the logbooks will help fill in gaps in 19th century temperature records, which are currently relatively poor for the 1860s and 1870s compared to other decades since 1850.

The Weather Rescue At Sea project is the data rescue component of GloSAT, a project funded by the Natural Environment Research Council to develop and analyze a climate record extending back to the 1780s, using air temperature observations recorded across land, ocean and ice.

The new GloSAT temperature record will give a longer and more consistent picture of changes to global surface air temperature, and advance understanding of climate change since the late 18th century.

The Weather Rescue At Sea project is the data rescue component of GloSAT, a project funded by the Natural Environment Research Council to develop and analyze a climate record extending back to the 1780s, using air temperature observations recorded across land, ocean and ice.

The new GloSAT temperature record will give a longer and more consistent picture of changes to global surface air temperature, and advance understanding of climate change since the late 18th century.

Weather Rescue at Sea follows previous successful citizen science projects led by Professor Hawkins, which have collectively digitized many millions of pieces of archived weather data. These include observations made at a remote Victorian weather station atop Ben Nevis in Scotland, and rainfall reports from as early as the 1820sthe latter of which saw more than 15,000 volunteers work through more than 5 million records in just a fortnight.

Volunteers can sign up for Weather Rescue at Sea at rdg.ac/seaweather.
The UN's Environment Programme says national plans to cut carbon pollution amount to 'weak promises, not yet delivered'

Countries' latest climate plans will deliver just a tiny percentage of the emissions cuts needed to limit global heating to 1.5C, the United Nations said on Tuesday in a damning assessment ahead of the COP26 climate summit.

Just days before the Glasgow meeting, which is being billed as crucial for the long-term viability of the Paris climate deal, the UN's Environment Programme said that national plans to reduce carbon pollution amounted to "weak promises, not yet delivered".

In its annual Emissions Gap assessment, UNEP calculates the gulf between the emissions set to be released by countries and the level needed to limit temperature rises to 1.5Cthe most ambitious Paris Agreement goal.

The summit's organisers say they want countries to commit to keeping Earth on course for the 1.5C goal through redoubled pledges to decarbonise their economies.

But according to UNEP, even the most up-to-date and ambitious plans from around 120 countries puts the world on track to warm 2.7C.

UN chief Antonio Guterres said Tuesday's report showed that the world was "still on track for climate catastrophe".

"As world leaders prepare for COP26, this report is another thundering wake-up call. How many do we need?"

Under the 2015 Paris deal, signatories are required to submit new emissions-cutting plansknown as Nationally Determined Contributions, or NDCsevery five years, each more ambitious than the last.

UNEP said that most recent commitments would shave 7.5 percent off previously predicted 2030 emissions levels.

To keep on a 1.5C trajectory, a 55-percent reduction is needed, it said.

A 30-percent cut is needed for 2C of warming, a threshold the Paris deal commits nations to keep temperatures "well below".

"To stand a chance of limiting global warming to 1.5C, we have eight years to almost halve greenhouse gas emissions," said UNEP Executive Director Inger Andersen.

'Imminent peril'

UNEP said that the Covid-19 pandemic led to an "unprecedented" 5.4-percent drop in global emissions in 2020.

However, even this was not enough to narrow the gap between humanity's current emissions trajectory and a 1.5C world.

Putting the challenge into stark perspective, it said that countries needed to slash CO2 and its equivalent in other greenhouse gases by an additional 28 billion tonnes by 2030; carbon dioxide emissions alone are projected to hit 33 billion tonnes in 2021.

Report co-author Anne Ohloff told AFP that it showed there had been "some progress" on emissions since the Paris Agreement.

"The new (NDC) commitments shave off 4 Gigatonnes of CO2 equivalent annually by 2030 compared to the last ones," she said.

"But it's far from sufficient, of course. Overall we are very far from where we should be."

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in August said that Earth could hit the 1.5C threshold as soon as 2030 and be consistently above it by mid-century.

The report on Tuesday said that even if all net-zero pledges were delivered in full, there was a 66-percent chance that temperature rises could be limited to 2.2C.

"There is no appetite for reducing fossil fuel consumption globally at the rate required to meet our climate goals," said Myles Allen, professor of Geosystem Science at the University of Oxford.

This year's Emissions Gap report focused on the role in global heating played by methane, the most potent greenhouse gas.

It found that existing technical measures could reduce man-made methane emissions by 20 percent per year, with little or no additional cost to industry.

It also said that the plans of many of the 49 countries that have made net-zero pledges remained "vague and not reflected in NDCs".

"Overall, a net zero goal must be accompanied by immediate policy action towards ambitious 2030 targets," said Joanna Depledge, from the Cambridge Centre for Environment, Energy and Natural Resource Governance.

"Otherwise, it is mere virtue signalling."

 2021 AFP
NASAs Spitzer Space Telescope imaged this cloud of gas and dust. The colors represent different wavelengths of infrared light and can reveal such features as places where radiation from stars had heated the surrounding material. Any resemblance to Godzilla is purely imaginary. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

Do you see a monster in this picture? Do the bright spots near the top of the image look like the piercing eyes and elongated snout of Godzilla?

In reality, this colorful image shows a nebulaa cloud of gas and dust in spacecaptured by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope. Over billions of years, countless stars have formed in the material there. During their lifetimes, the radiation they release carves away the gas and dust, reshaping the cloud. Major changes also occur when massive stars die and explode, becoming supernovae. When viewed in visible light, the kind human eyes can detect, this region is almost entirely obscured by dust clouds. But infrared light (wavelengths longer than what our eyes can perceive) can penetrate the clouds, revealing hidden regions like this one.

Four colors (blue, cyan, green, and red) are used to represent different wavelengths of infrared light; yellow and white are combinations of those wavelengths. Blue and cyan represent wavelengths primarily emitted by stars; dust and organic molecules called hydrocarbons appear green; and warm dust that's been heated by stars or supernovae appears red.

This image was processed by Caltech astronomer Robert Hurt, who is responsible for the vast majority of public images created from Spitzer data since the observatory's launch in 2003. Hurt is also the one who spotted Godzilla in the image.

"I wasn't looking for monsters," he said. "I just happened to glance at a region of sky that I've browsed many times before, but I'd never zoomed in on. Sometimes if you just crop an area differently, it brings out something that you didn't see before. It was the eyes and mouth that roared 'Godzilla' to me."

Hurt isn't alone in his tendency to see Earth-bound objects in pictures of the cosmos. Pareidolia is the scientific name for the human tendency to perceive a specific, often meaningful image in a random or ambiguous visual pattern. Other scientists have spied a black widow spider, a Jack-o-Lantern, a snake, an exposed human brain, and the Starship Enterprise, among other things, in Spitzer images.

Managed by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, the Spitzer spacecraft was retired in January 2020, but scientists continue to mine its massive dataset for new information about the universe. And Hurt continues to look for engaging images.

"It's one of the ways that we want people to connect with the incredible work that Spitzer did," he said. "I look for compelling areas that can really tell a story. Sometimes it's a story about how stars and planets form, and sometimes it's about a giant monster rampaging through Tokyo."

The Godzilla-like nebula is located is in the constellation Sagittarius, along the plane of the Milky Way, which was part of Spitzer's GLIMPSE Survey (short for Galactic Legacy Infrared Mid-Plane Survey Extraordinaire). Stars in the upper right (where this cosmic Godzilla's eyes and snout would be) are an unknown distance from Earth but within our galaxy. Located about 7,800 light-years from Earth, the bright region in the lower left (Godzilla's right hand) is known as W33.

Not convinced this dramatic star-forming region looks like Godzilla? You can draw your own cosmic creature with the Spitzer Artistronomy web app. New nebulae, including this one, were added to the app this month. The app features drawing tools and pictures of nine nebulae captured by Spitzer, so users can illustrate their own visions of cosmic creatures. Spitzer's infrared view of the universe made it particularly apt at finding nebulae that were too cold to radiate visible light, or those that were hidden behind dust clouds.

The entire body of scientific data collected by Spitzer during its lifetime is available to the public via the Spitzer data archive, housed at the Infrared Science Archive at IPAC at Caltech in Pasadena, California.
Credit: CSIRO, Author provided

In December last year, the media reported an intriguing signal we at the Breakthrough Listen project found in our radio telescope data. Dubbed BLC1, the signal didn't appear to be the result of any recognizable astrophysical activity or any familiar Earth-based interference.

The trouble was, we weren't ready to discuss it. When you're searching for signs of extraterrestrial life, you want to be very careful about getting it right before you make any announcements. Last year we had only just started secondary verification tests, and there were too many unanswered questions.

Today we are ready to report that BLC1 is, sadly, not a signal from intelligent life beyond Earth. Rather, it is radio interference that closely mimics the type of signal we've been looking for. Our results are reported in two papers in Nature Astronomy.

Searching for solar flares and signs of life

The story of BLC1 starts in April 2019, when Andrew Zic, who at the time was a Ph.D. student at the University of Sydney, began observing the nearby star Proxima Centauri with multiple telescopes to search for flare activity. At 4.22 light years away, Proxima Centauri is our nearest stellar neighbor, but it is too faint to see with the naked eye.

Flares from stars are bursts of energy and hot plasma that may impact (and likely destroy) the atmosphere of any planets in their path. Though the Sun produces flares, they are not strong or frequent enough to disrupt life on Earth. Understanding how and when a star flares teaches us a lot about whether those planets might be suitable for life.

Proxima Centauri hosts an Earth-sized exoplanet called Proxima Centauri b, and Andrew's observations suggested the planet is buffeted by fierce "space weather." While bad space weather doesn't rule out life existing in the Proxima Centauri system, it does mean the planet's surface is likely to be inhospitable.

Still, as our nearest neighbor, Proxima Centauri b remains a compelling target for the search for extraterrestrial intelligence (or SETI). Proxima Centauri is one of the only stars we could potentially ever visit in our lifetime.

At the speed of light, a two-way trip would take 8.4 light years. We can't send a spaceship that fast, but there is hope that a tiny camera on a light sail could reach there in 50 years and beam back pictures.

Because of this, we joined forces with Andrew Zic and his collaborators, and used CSIRO's Parkes telescope (also known as Murriyang in the Wiradjuri language) to run SETI observations in parallel with the flare activity search.

An intriguing summer project

We thought searching these observations would be an excellent project for a summer student. In 2020, Shane Smith, an undergraduate student from Hillsdale College in Michigan, United States, joined the Berkeley SETI Research Experience for Undergraduates program and began sifting through the data. Toward the end of his project, BLC1 popped out.

The BLC1 signal. Each panel in the plot is an observation toward Proxima Centauri (on source), or toward a reference source (off source). BLC1 is the yellow drifting line, and is only present when the telescope is pointed at Proxima Centauri. Credit: Smith et al., Nature Astronomy, Author provided

The Breakthrough Listen team quickly became intrigued by BLC1. However, the burden of proof to claim a detection of life beyond Earth is exceedingly high, so we don't let ourselves get too excited until we've applied every test we can think of. The analysis of BLC1 was spearheaded by Sofia Sheikh, at the time a Ph.D. student at Penn State, who ran an exhaustive set of tests, many of which were new.

There was plenty of evidence pointing toward BLC1 being a genuine sign of extraterrestrial technology (or "technosignature"). BLC1 has many characteristics we expect from a technosignature:

we only saw BLC1 when we were looking toward Proxima Centauri, and didn't see it in when we looked elsewhere (in "off-source" observations). Interfering signals are commonly seen in all directions, as they "leak" into the telescope receiver

the signal only occupies one narrow band of frequencies, whereas signals from stars or other astrophysical sources occur over a much wider range

the signal slowly drifted in frequency over a 5-hour period. A frequency drift is expected for any transmitter not fixed to Earth's surface, as its movement relative to us will cause a Doppler effect

the BLC1 signal persisted for several hours, making it unlike other interference from artificial satellites or aircraft that we have observed before.

Nevertheless, Sofia's analysis led us to conclude BLC1 is most likely radio interference from right here on Earth. Sofia was able to show this by searching across the entire frequency range of the Parkes receiver and finding "lookalike" signals, whose characteristics are mathematically related to BLC1.

Unlike BLC1, the lookalikes do appear in off-source observations. As such, BLC1 is guilty by association of being radio interference.

Not the technosignature we were looking for

We don't know exactly where BLC1 was coming from, or why it wasn't detected in off-source observations like the lookalike signals. Our best guess is that BLC1 and the lookalikes are generated by a process called intermodulation, where two frequencies mix together to create new interference.

If you've listened to blues or rock guitar, you are probably familiar with intermodulation. When a guitar amp is deliberately overdriven (when you turn it up to 11), intermodulation adds a pleasant-sounding distortion to the clean guitar signal. So BLC1 isperhapsjust an unpleasant distortion from a device with an overdriven radio frequency amplifier.

Regardless of what caused BLC1, it was not the technosignature we were looking for. It did, however, make for an excellent case study, and showed that our detection pipelines are working and picking up unusual signals.

Proxima Centauri is only one of many hundreds of billions of stars in the Milky Way. To search them all, we need to keep our momentum, to continue to improve our tools and verification tests, and to train the next generation of astronomers, like Shane and Sofia, who can continue the search with the next generation of telescopes.

Explore further Humongous flare from sun's nearest neighbor breaks records

More information: Sofia Z. Sheikh et al, Analysis of the Breakthrough Listen signal of interest blc1 with a technosignature verification framework, Nature Astronomy (2021). Sofia Z. Sheikh et al, Analysis of the Breakthrough Listen signal of interest blc1 with a technosignature verification framework,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-021-01508-8 Shane Smith et al, A radio technosignature search towards Proxima Centauri resulting in a signal of interest, Nature Astronomy (2021). DOI: 10.1038/s41550-021-01479-w Journal information: Nature Astronomy

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Credit: Galveston Island State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife / Facebook

An unknown person working at Galveston Island Sate Park, Texas Parks and Wildlife, has posted a picture of a unique fish that was caught at the park on Facebookit has no natural tongue. Instead, it has a tongue made up of a group of parasites known as a tongue-eating louse. In the picture, the fish is held up to the camera with its mouth wide open showing the strange foreign 'tongue' inside.

An official with Coastal Fisheries, Mark Fisher, told members of the press that the parasite is not as rare as it might seem, noting that it is quite common in some less well-known species, such as the spotted seatrout or the red drum that lives off the coast of Texas. The fish in the picture is an Atlantic croaker. He further explains that the parasite is an isopod crustacean that is related to the pill bug, (aka rolly pollys) found in many yards across America.

It makes its way into the fish's mouth through its gillsonly the female replaces the tongue, while the males remain in the gills. He also notes that until now, he had never seen it in an Atlantic croaker. He adds that the louse is the only known parasite to completely replace an organ in another creature. Oddly, the new tongue does not seem to harm the fish, or the people who may catch it, though it is not known what would happen if a person were to eat the parasitic tongue. Fisher notes that not enough research has been done on the parasite to understand how it pulls off such a feat. Prior research has shown that the parasite does not survive by eating the food taken in by the fish but instead consumes the mucus that forms on the inside of the fish's mouth.

Social media has caught wind of the picture posted by the park official, leading to memes and other stories of interest because of the scary look of the parasitic tongueit has eyes on it. Indeed, the park official who posted the picture initially described it as a Martian. Others have described it in more monstrous tones.

Detailed information about the parasite was published in the International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife in 2014.

Explore further Extremely rare parasitic crustacean discovered in museum shark collection

More information: Galveston Island State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife: Galveston Island State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife: www.facebook.com/GalvestonIsla  ts/10158143851271610 Nico J. Smit et al, Global diversity of fish parasitic isopod crustaceans of the family Cymothoidae, International Journal for Parasitology: Parasites and Wildlife (2014). DOI: 10.1016/j.ijppaw.2014.03.004

 2021 Science X Network
UVSC Pathfinder is a spectro-coronagraph, which is an instrument that blocks the Suns bright face to reveal the dimmer, surrounding corona. It is shown here being inspected after thermal vacuum testing at NRL. Credit: Leonard Strachan

A joint NASA-U.S. Naval Research Laboratory experiment dedicated to studying the origins of solar energetic particlesthe Sun's most dangerous form of radiationis ready for launch.

UVSC Pathfindershort for Ultraviolet Spectro-Coronagraph Pathfinderwill hitch a ride to space aboard STPSat-6, the primary spacecraft of the Space Test Program-3 (STP-3) mission for the Department of Defense. STP-3 is scheduled to lift off on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V 551 rocket no earlier than Nov. 22, from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida.

Solar energetic particles, or SEPs, are a type of space weather that pose a major challenge to space exploration. A solar particle storm, or SEP event, occurs when the Sun fires energetic particles into space at such high speeds that some reach Earth93 million miles awayin less than an hour. Flurries of the powerful particles can wreak havoc with spacecraft and expose astronauts to dangerous radiation.

UVSC Pathfinder will peer at the lowest regions of the Sun's outer atmosphere, or corona, where SEPs are thought to originate. While the Sun releases eruptions almost daily when it is most active, there are only about 20 disruptive solar particle storms during any given 11-year solar cycle. Scientists can't reliably predict which of these will produce SEPs, nor their intensity. Understanding and eventually predicting these solar storms are crucial for enabling future space exploration.

"It's a pathfinder because we're demonstrating new technology and a new way to forecast this type of space weather," said Leonard Strachan, an astrophysicist at the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, D.C., and the mission's principal investigator. "Right now, there's no real way of predicting when these particle storms will happen."

A close up of a solar eruption, including a solar flare, a coronal mass ejection, and a solar energetic particle event. Credit: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center

Understanding and predicting SEPs

UVSC Pathfinder is a coronagraph, a kind of instrument that blocks the Sun's bright face to reveal the dimmer, surrounding corona. Most coronagraphs have a single aperture with a series of occulters that block the Sun and reduce stray light. The novelty of UVSC Pathfinder is that it uses five separate apertures, each with its own occultersignificantly boosting the signal from the corona.

In the corona, scientists expect to find the special group of particles that eventually becomes solar energetic particles. Not just any regular particle in the Sun's atmosphere can be energized to an SEP. Rather, scientists think SEPs come from swarms of seed particles residing in the corona that are already around 10 times hotter and more energetic than their neighbors. Those could come from bright bursts of energy, called flares, or regions of intense magnetic fields in the corona, called current sheets.

It takes some prior energetic solar activity to fire up the seed particles. Occasionally, the Sun unleashes massive clouds of solar material, called coronal mass ejections. Those explosions can generate a shock ahead of them, like the wave that crests at the front of a speeding boat. "If a coronal mass ejection comes out fast enough"600 miles per second at least"it can produce a shock, which can sweep up these particles," Strachan explained. "The particles get so much energy from the shock, they become SEPs."

Unlike most coronagraphs that take images in visible light, UVSC Pathfinder is unique because it's combined with a spectrometer that measures ultraviolet light, a kind of light that's invisible to human eyes. By analyzing the light in the corona, researchers hope to identify when seed particles are present.

Scientists have routinely observed SEPs from the near-Earth perspective93 million miles away from their origin. Since seed particles are only present in the corona, it has been impossible to measure them directly. UVSC Pathfinder aims to observe the elusive particles by remotely sensing their signatures in ultraviolet light. "We know rather little about them," said Martin Laming, a U.S. Naval Research Laboratory physicist and UVSC Pathfinder's science lead. "This is really a ground-breaking observation."

Images from NASA's STEREO satellite show a coronal mass ejection followed by a flurry of solar energetic particles. Credit: NASA/STEREO

The impacts of SEP swarms are serious. When it comes to spacecraft, they can fry electronics, corrupt a satellite's computer programming, damage solar panels, and even disorient a spacecraft's star tracker, used for navigation. The effect is like driving through a blizzard and getting lost: SEPs fill the star tracker's view, and losing its ability to orient itself, it spins off orbit.

To humans, SEPs are dangerous because they can pass through spacecraft or an astronaut's skin, where they can damage cells or DNA. This damage can increase risk for cancer later in life, or in extreme cases, cause acute radiation sickness in the short-term. (On Earth, our planet's protective magnetic field and atmosphere shield humans from this harm.) A series of enormous solar flares in August 1972in between the Apollo 16 and 17 missionsserves as a reminder of the threat solar activity and radiation poses.

The UVSC Pathfinder experiment marks a major step toward understanding where SEPs come from and how they evolve as they travel through the solar system. The data will help scientists predict whether a solar explosion could generate problematic SEPs much the way we predict severe weather events on Earth. Forecasts would enable spacecraft operators and astronauts to take steps to mitigate their impacts. "If our thinking is correct, seed particles will be a really important signature of radiation storms to watch out for," Laming said.

Joining NASA's heliophysics fleet

UVSC Pathfinder is the latest addition to NASA's fleet of heliophysics observatories. NASA heliophysics missions study a vast, interconnected system from the Sun to the space surrounding Earth and other planets, and to the farthest limits of the Sun's constantly flowing stream of solar wind. UVSC Pathfinder provides key information on SEPs, enabling future space exploration.

The mission's observations will complement those of two other solar observatories. The new coronagraph will look as close as 865,000 miles from the Sun, while NASA's Parker Solar Probe and the European Space Agency and NASA's Solar Orbiter will directly sample the space up to a distance of 3.8 million miles and 26.7 million miles from the Sun, respectively. "We hope coordinated observations will be useful in pinning down the evolution of SEPs as they move out from the Sun," Strachan said.

"The NASA science program has a long history of obtaining predictive space weather tools from the results of pure research missions," said Daniel Moses, chief technologist in NASA's Heliophysics Division. "Collaboration between the NASA Science Mission Directorate, the Naval Research Laboratory and the Department of Defense STP program has been particularly fruitful in this area. UVSC Pathfinder continues this proud tradition of basic research collaboration with the potential of developing a new, high-impact tool with predictive capability."

UVSC Pathfinder is a NASA and U.S. Naval Research Laboratory payload aboard the Department of Defense's Space Test Program Satellite-6 (STPSat-6). It flies alongside NASA's Laser Communications Relay Demonstration (LCRD), which is testing an enhanced communications capability with the potential to increase bandwidth 10 to 100 times more than radio frequency systemsallowing space missions to send more data home.

Explore further In first, scientists trace fastest solar particles to their roots on the Sun
NOT ALFOSC color-composite image of NGC 6905. Credit: Gomez-Gonzalez et al., 2021.

Using the Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT), astronomers have investigated a planetary nebula known as NGC 6905 and its central star. Results of the study, presented in a paper published October 18 on the arXiv pre-print server, provide more insights into the nature of this object.

Planetary nebulae (PNe) are expanding shells of gas and dust that have been ejected from a star during the process of its evolution from a main sequence star into a red giant or white dwarf. They are relatively rare, but are important for astronomers studying the chemical evolution of stars and galaxies.

At a distance of about 8,800 light years away from the Earth, NGC 6905, also known as the "Blue Flash Nebula" for its characteristic colors, is a high-excitation PN with a clearly clumpy morphology. It is composed of a central roundish cavity with an angular radius of some 0.81 light years and a pair of extended V-shaped structures extending towards two opposite directions. The central star of this PN, designated HD 193949, is a Wolf-Rayet-type star with a radius of about 0.15 solar radii, mass of approximately 0.6 solar masses, and effective temperature in the range of 150,000165,000 degrees K.

A team of astronomers led by Victor Mauricio Alfonso Gomez-Gonzalez of the National Autonomous University of Mexico has recently conducted a multi-wavelength study of NGC 6905 and HD 193949, aiming to shed more light on the properties and structure of this object. The research is based mainly on the data from NOT's Alhambra Faint Object Spectrograph and Camera (ALFOSC), but also on archival infrared images obtained from telescopes such as NASA's Spitzer and WISE.

"We present a multi-wavelength characterisation of the planetary nebula (PN) NGC 6905 and its [Wolf-Rayet]-type ([WR]) central star (CSPN) HD 193949. Our Nordic Optical Telescope (NOT) Alhambra Faint Object Spectrograph and Camera (ALFOSC) spectra and images unveil in unprecedented detail the high-ionization structure of NGC 6905," the researchers wrote in the paper.

The observations allowed the team to detect the three broad WR bumps, the so-called O-bump, blue bump and red bump, confirming that HD 193949 belongs to the [WO]-class of Wolf-Rayet stars. They also detected 21 WR features which suggest that the spectral type of this CSPN cannot be later than a [WO2]-subtype star. The effective temperature of HD 193949 was measured to be around 140,000 degrees K, therefore lower than previously thought.

Based on the data, the astronomers investigated the physical properties and chemical abundances of different regions of NGC 6905. They found that the low-ionization knots located at the northwest and southeast regions of this PN do not exhibit different electron density nor electron temperature compared to its other regions. The averaged value of electron density was calculated to be 500/cm3, while the electron temperature was estimated to be at a level of 13,000 degrees K.

The researchers noted that NGC 6905 has similar abundances as other WRPN, but a slightly smaller nitrogen to oxygen ratio.

"In particular, comparing the N/O ratio versus the N abundance following previous studies suggests that the CSPN of NGC 6905 had a relatively low initial mass of about 1 solar mass. This makes NGC 6905 one of the WRPN with the less massive central star," the scientists explained.

The study also allowed the astronomers to conclude that there is no anomalous carbon-enrichment within NGC 6905 which suggests that no very late thermal pulse (VLTP) has been involved in its formation of or the production of its central star. Additionally, the team reproduced the nebular and dust properties of NGC 6905 and found that the total mass of gas in this PN is in the range of 0.31 and 0.47 solar masses, while the mass of dust was estimated to be between 0.00224 and 0.00169 solar masses.

Explore further New giant exoplanet detected with TESS

More information: V. M. A. Gomez-Gonzalez et al, Planetary nebulae with Wolf-Rayet-type central starsIII. A detailed view of NGC 6905 and its central star. arXiv:2110.09551v1 [astro-ph.SR], V. M. A. Gomez-Gonzalez et al, Planetary nebulae with Wolf-Rayet-type central starsIII. A detailed view of NGC 6905 and its central star. arXiv:2110.09551v1 [astro-ph.SR], arxiv.org/abs/2110.09551

 2021 Science X Network
The shoreline is receding at Emerald Bay on the southwest corner of Lake Tahoe on Oct. 20, 2021 east of South Lake Tahoe, Calif. Drought fueled by climate change has dropped Lake Tahoe below its natural rim and halted flows into the Truckee River. President Joe Biden heads to a vital U.N. climate change summit at a time when a majority of Americans regard the deteriorating climate as a problem of high importance to them. That's the finding of a new poll by the Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago. Credit: AP Photo/Scott Sonner

President Joe Biden heads to a vital U.N. climate summit at a time when a majority of Americans regard the deteriorating climate as a problem of high importance to them, an increase from just a few years ago.

About 6 out of 10 Americans also believe that the pace of global warming is speeding up, according to a new survey from the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago.

As Biden struggles to pass significant climate legislation at home ahead of next week's U.N. climate summit, the new AP-NORC/EPIC poll also shows that 55% of Americans want Congress to pass a bill to ensure that more of the nation's electricity comes from clean energy, and less from climate-damaging coal and natural gas.

Only 16% of Americans oppose such a measure for electricity from cleaner energy. A similar measure initially was one of the most important parts of climate legislation that Biden has before Congress. But Biden's proposal to reward utilities with clean energy sources and penalize those without ran into objections from a coal-state senator, Democrat Joe Manchin of West Virginia, leaving fellow Democrats scrambling to come up with other ways to slash pollution from burning fossil fuels.

For some of the Americans watching, it's an exasperating delay in dealing with an urgent problem.

"If you follow science, the signs are here," said Nancy Reilly, a Democrat in Missouri who's retired after 40 years as a retail manager, and worries for her children as the climate deteriorates. "It's already here. And what was the first thing they start watering down to get this bill through? Climate change."

"It's just maddening," Reilly said. "I understand why, I doI get the politics of it. I'm sick of the politics of it."

After President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord, the Biden administration hoped to help negotiate major emissions cuts globally to slow the rise of temperatures. But it's not clear whether Biden will be able to get any significant climate legislation through Congress before the U.N. summit starts Sunday.

In all, 59% of Americans said the Earth's warming is very or extremely important to them as an issue, up from 49% in 2018. Fifty-four percent of Americans cited scientists' voices as having a large amount of influence on their views about climate change, and nearly as many51%said their views were influenced by recent extreme weather events like hurricanes, deadly heat spells, wildfires and other natural disasters around the world.

Over the last 60 years, the pollution pumped out by gasoline and diesel engines, power plants and other sources has changed the climate and warmed the Earth by 1.7 degrees Fahrenheit, making the extremes of weather more extreme.

In east Tennessee's Smoky Mountains, leaf-peeper websites this year are advising fall foliage tourists that leaves are taking days longer than normal to turn from green to fiery orange and red. It's not evidence of climate change as a one-off instance, but typical of the changes Americans are seeing as the Earth heats up.

In this Oct. 15, 2021, photo, the U.S. Capitol is seen between cardboard cutouts of flames during a climate change protest near the U.S. Capitol in Washington. President Joe Biden heads to a vital U.N. climate change summit at a time when a majority of Americans regard the deteriorating climate as a problem of high importance to them. That's the finding of a new poll by the Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago. Credit: AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin

"Normally you get the four seasons, fall, spring, and winter, and it goes in that way. But lately, it's not been that," said Jeremy Wilson, a 42-year-old who votes independent and works the grounds at a scenic chairlift park that runs people up to the top of the Smoky Mountains. "It's been either way hotter, or way colder."

Seventy-five percent of Americans believe that climate change is happening, while 10% believe that it is not, the poll found. Another 15% are unsure.

Among those who say it is happening, 54% say that it's caused mostly or entirely by human activities compared to just 14% who thinkincorrectly, scientists saythat it's caused mainly by natural changes in the environment. Another 32% of Americans believe it's a mix of human and natural factors.

And while Democrats are more likely than Republicans to say climate change is happening, majorities of both parties agree that it is. That breaks down to 89% of Democrats and and 57% of Republicans.

The poll also gauged Americans' willingness to pay for the cost of cutting climate-wrecking pollution as well as mitigating its consequences.

Fifty-two percent said they would support a $1 a month carbon fee on their energy bill to fight climate change, but support dwindles as the fee increases.

"I would say, like 5, 10 dollars, as long as it's really being used for what it should be," said Krystal Chivington, a 46-year-old Republican in Delaware who credits her 17-year-old daughter for reviving her own passion for fighting climate change and pollution.

It's not ordinary consumers who should bear the brunt of paying to stave off the worst scenarios of climate change, said Mark Sembach, a 59-year-old Montana Democrat who works in environmental remediation.

"I think it needs to fall a great deal on responsible corporations that'sand unfortunately ... most corporations aren't responsible," Sembach said. "And I think there needs to be a lot of pushback as to who ultimately pays for that."

___

The AP-NORC poll of 5,468 adults was conducted Sept. 8-24 using a combined sample of interviews from NORC's probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population, and interviews from opt-in online panels. The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 1.7 percentage points. The AmeriSpeak panel is recruited randomly using address-based sampling methods, and respondents later were interviewed online or by phone.

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Mountain snowpacks around the world are on the decline, and if the planet continues to warm, climate models forecast that snowpacks could shrink dramatically and possibly even disappear altogether on certain mountains, including in the western United States, at some point in the next century. A new study led by researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) analyzes the likely timing of a low-to-no-snow future, what it will mean for water management, and opportunities for investments now that could stave off catastrophic consequences.

Their review paper, "A low-to-no-snow future and its impacts on water resources in the western United States," published in the journal Nature Reviews Earth and Environment, analyzes previous climate projections and finds that if greenhouse gas emissions continue along the high-emissions scenario, low-to-no-snow winters will become a regular occurrence in the western U.S. in 35 to 60 years. Further, the study re-evaluates longstanding assumptions in water management in the U.S. and stresses that scientists and water managers need to work together more closely to develop and implement climate adaptation strategies.

The Sierra Nevada, Rockies, Cascades, and other mountain ranges provide a tremendous service by capturing, storing, and releasing water for downstream use. Historically, snowmelt timing provides a critical delay in the delivery of water supply during the spring and into the summer, when precipitation is low and when water demands are at their highest due to agriculture. The factors causing shrinking snowpacks are predominantly tied to temperature increases and shifting precipitation characteristics. Warmer temperatures also imply that storms will produce more rainfall and less snowfall, limiting the amount of seasonal snowpack that can build through the winter.

The research, co-led by authors Erica Siirila-Woodburn and Alan Rhoades of Berkeley Lab's Earth & Environmental Sciences Area, starts with a literature review which distills several hundred scientific studies on snow loss; of those, they identify and analyze 18 studies that had quantitative snowpack projections for the western U.S.

When will the low-to-no-snow future arrive?

"A recent study highlighted that there has been a 21% decline in the April 1 snowpack water storage in the western U.S. since the 1950sthat's equivalent to Lake Mead's storage capacity. In our review, we found that around mid-century we should expect a comparable decline in snowpack," said Rhoades. "By the end of the century, the decline could reach more than 50%, but with a larger range of uncertainty."

Many water managers use the somewhat arbitrary date of April 1 to make snowpack observations and planning decisions. Over the last several decades, there have been decreases in peak snowpack volume as well as earlier occurrences of the timing of peak snowpack, with the peak occurring approximately 8 days earlier in the year for every 1 degree Celsius (1.8 degrees Fahrenheit) of warming.

Many regions have already experienced winters with very little snow in recent years, such as the Sierras in 2015 when the April 1 snowpack level was 5% of normal, which the authors call an "extreme" event. The paper defines two other types of low-to-no-snow conditions"episodic low-to-no snow," or when more than half of a mountain basin experiences low-to-no snow for five consecutive years, and "persistent low-to-no snow," in which this happens for 10 consecutive years. "Low snow" is defined as when the snowpack (or more precisely, the snow water equivalent, a measure of how much water will be released when the snowpack melts) is in the 30th percentile or lower of the historical peak.

Using these definitions, California could experience episodic low-to-no snow as early as the late 2040s and persistent low-to-no snow in the 2060s according to one high-resolution climate projection. For other parts of the western U.S. persistent low-to-no snow emerges in the 2070s. The authors caution the need for more analyses with a broader set of climate projections to enhance confidence in the timeline for emergence of low-to-no-snow conditions.

The authors describe the climate projections in their study, writing: "Through the middle and end of the 21st century, an increasing fraction of the western U.S. is impacted by snow water equivalent deficits relative to the historical period. In particular, only 8 to 14% of years are classified as low-to-no snow over 1950-2000, compared to 78 to 94% over 2050-2099. In all regions, an abrupt transition occurs in the mid-to-late 21st century."

A new Berkeley Lab analysis finds that if greenhouse gas emissions continue along the high-emissions scenario, low-to-no-snow winters will become a regular occurrence in the western U.S. in 35 to 60 years. Credit: Jenny Nuss/Berkeley Lab

Impacts on water resources

The impacts of a low-to-no-snow future extend beyond just decreased streamflow, although that is certainly a significant consequence. In the Sierra Nevada, for example, the amount of water in the snowpack on a typical April 1 is nearly double the surface reservoir storage in California.

"A low-to-no-snow future has massive implications for where and when water is stored in the western U.S.," said Siirila-Woodburn. "In addition to the direct impacts on recreation and the like, there are a lot of secondary effects on natural and managed systems, from a hydrologic perspective. So that's anything ranging from increased wildfire occurrence to changes in groundwater and surface water patterns and changes in vegetation type and density."

With less snow and more rain, groundwater levels in mountainous systems may be impacted because snowmelt more effectively infiltrates into the subsurface than rainfall does. Further, less snow at lower elevations will decrease the overall surface area of snowpack stored in the mountains, potentially resulting in less available snowmelt that infiltrates into the ground.

Now for the good news 

The authors' aim in doing this study was to spur thinking now about adaptation strategies. "We want society to be proactive about these changes in snowpack rather than reactive," said Rhoades. "Our hope in presenting the literature synthesis of low-to-no snow is so that we can understand the problem in a 'one-stop shop' way. Additionally, we highlighted some novel climate adaptation strategies that are coming about through nontraditional academic and water agency partnerships, which will be key parts of a portfolio of adaptation approaches needed to overcome snow loss in a warmer world."

One such partnership is a Department of Energy-supported project called HyperFACETS, which involves 11 research institutions, including Berkeley Lab, working with water utility managers in California, Colorado, Florida, and Pennsylvania.

The paper also discusses potential adaptation strategies, such as a technique known as managed aquifer recharge, in which excess surface water is stored underground as groundwater for later use. Another relatively new technique, forecast-informed reservoir operations, in which weather and hydrological forecasts are used to inform decisions about retaining or releasing water from reservoirs, was recently shown to increase water storage at Lake Mendocino in California by 33%.

These and other techniques show promise for increasing water supply, but the authors also recommend more cross-collaboration, both among scientists and within society as a whole, to expand the portfolio of climate adaptation strategies.

"We are advocating for the idea of engagement with best scientific practices and more collaboration or partnership between researchers and stakeholders. For example, city managers are concerned with flood control; farmers are concerned with water storage; everyone has their own objectives. Even within science, the disciplines are typically siloed," said Siirila-Woodburn. "If everyone were working together to manage water rather than working independently for their own purpose, there would be more water to go around."

More information: A low-to-no-snow future and its impacts on water resources in the western United States, Nature Reviews Earth and Environment, DOI: 10.1038/s43017-021-00219-y , www.nature.com/articles/s43017-021-00219-y A low-to-no-snow future and its impacts on water resources in the western United States,
Crawling frog (Pseudophryne guentheri) at a study site. Credit: Nicki Mitchell

In a world-first laboratory trial reported in Communications Biology, a research team at The University of Western Australia have mixed populations to produce tadpoles that would be more tolerant of climate change.

The project was part of research by Threatened Species Recovery Hub of the Australian Government's National Environmental Science Program which has examined ways to help threatened species adapt to climate change.

Climate change poses an enormous threat to many of the world's frogs, including three quarters of Australia's most imperiled frog species.

The trial was conducted on the crawling frog which relies on damp soil to rear eggs and occurs in south-western Australia, a region that has experienced on-going reductions in rainfall over four decades, and where drying is projected to continue.

According to the study's lead author Dr. Tabitha Rudin-Bitterli, the crawling frog is one of 17 species of terrestrial-breeding frogs in south-western Australiaa global biodiversity hotspot.

"Natural variation in rainfall over the wide range of the species, means that some populations are adapted to drier conditions," said Dr. Rudin-Bitterli.

"Climate change is now happening too fast for natural adaptation to occur in small populations that have been fragmented by land clearing, and are consequently losing genetic diversity.

"Our study examined if tolerance to dry conditions could be increased in wet-adapted populations through cross breeding," said Dr. Rudin-Bitterli.

The team mixed sperm and eggs from four different crawling frog populations that occur in areas with different levels of rainfall, raised the eggs on wet or dry soil, and then measured the outcomes on embryos and tadpoles.

Associate Professor Nicki Mitchell, from the School of Biological Sciences at The University of Western Australia, said that they successfully produced 'wet x dry' cross tadpoles that had increased tolerance to dry conditions compared to tadpoles with two 'wet-adapted' parents.

"These mixed-origin tadpoles hatched faster, were better swimmers, were bigger and had fewer malformations compared to pure wet population tadpoles; all factors that should increase their chances of survival and passing on genes that will be beneficial in a drier climate," Associate Professor Mitchell said.

"The surprising finding was this positive result occurred only when we mixed sperm from a drier area with eggs from the wet area. When we used the opposite combination of eggs and sperm it produced no obvious benefit, despite the genetic mix being the same.

"It also only worked for two populations that are about 100km apart. Crosses between the populations that are about 400 km apart, and genetically more different, produced a negative result with lower embryo survival and more malformations.

"This trial has shown that it could be possible to assist adaptation to drier conditions for population that have evolved in high rainfall areas, however it can't help populations that are already in the driest areas.

"As the results of mixing populations are hard to predict, carefully conducted trials will be essential before these techniques could be applied in the wild to reduce the risk of species extinctions."

More information: Tabitha S. Rudin-Bitterli et al, Fitness consequences of targeted gene flow to counter impacts of drying climates on terrestrial-breeding frogs, Communications Biology (2021). Journal information: Communications Biology Tabitha S. Rudin-Bitterli et al, Fitness consequences of targeted gene flow to counter impacts of drying climates on terrestrial-breeding frogs,(2021). DOI: 10.1038/s42003-021-02695-w
Members of the 117th Congress of the United States are sworn in at the Capitol in January 2021. Currently, 119 women hold seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, a record number. Credit: Franmarie Metzler

When women gain power in national legislatures such as the U.S. Senate or Israeli Knesset, countries begin to spend more on priorities like education and healthcare.

That's the conclusion of new research led by CU Boulder and published this fall in the journal Political Science Research and Methods.

The study comes as women are winning more seats in parliaments and national assemblies around the globe, but still struggling to gain a majority in many countries.

In Rwanda, for instance, women fill 56%or 59 out of 106of the seats in the nation's parliamentthe largest representation of women in any national legislative body in the world. Lebanon, Sri Lanka and Nigeria, meanwhile, join a host of countries where the representation of women languishes in the single digits. The United States falls in the middle, with women holding 27%or 143 out of 535House and Senate seats.

"The big question this paper asks is: Does increasing the representation of women in politics actually have a meaningful effect on legislation?" said Hannah Paul, co-author of the new study and PhD candidate in political science at CU Boulder.

To find out, she and her colleagues used machine learning tools to sift through real-world data from nearly 150 nations. They discovered that women's representation matters, but it's complicated.

Take education. Based on the team's calculations, increasing numbers of women in national legislatures can spur a bump in spending on education, but only once they reach about 20% representation. When women occupy more than 40% of seats, however, education spending tends to plateau.

The findings highlight just how complex the relationship between gender and politics can be, said study co-author Andrew Philips, assistant professor of political science.

"When the representation of women is low, politicians tend to treat them like window dressing: They're there to make the party look good," he said. "At the same time, you can get to a point where there are so many women in politics that they can now prioritize different issues than they did before."

Attendees at the RPF-Inkotanyi 3rd Women's League Congress in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2017. The RPF-Inkotanyi is the political party of Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Credit: CC photo via Flickr

Critical mass

The study is the latest to tackle a sticky topic in the field of political science: Critical mass theory. The idea, Philips explained, emerged out of research into the role of women in the business world. Say you're dealing with a company's board. If only one or two women sit on a board of 15 people, they might not be able to enact too many changes. Critical mass theory, however, posits that if women leaders hit a minimum threshold for powersay they now hold five out of 15 seatstheir influence will increase dramatically.

The problem is that research on the impact of critical mass has been mixed, Paul said.

"This idea has been debated for decades," she said. "What we're trying to do is adjudicate whether we should keep this theory around. Or maybe these relationships are more nuanced."

The researchers, including Kendall Funk from Arizona State University, scanned thousands of data points to get at that questionnot only looking at information on nations' expenditures but also controlling for potentially confounding factors like unemployment, level of democracy and female life expectancy. Previous studies of city mayors and other politicians have shown that women leaders often favor spending on education and health, while men lean into security and transportation.

Sweet spot

The approach panned out. The team discovered that a sweet spot seems to exist where women can affect the most change in the fastest amount of time.

When women occupy roughly 15% to 35% of a country's legislature, spending on healthcare jumps up sharply from about 6.4% of GDP to more than 6.7%. Beyond that point, however, adding more women to a parliament, assembly or congress no longer moves the spending needle much. At the same time, defense spending plummets as more women join legislatures, leveling off at about 1.8% of GDP, when women reach 35% representation.

"There's this interval of time in which women are shaping how government spends money on education and healthcare," Paul said.

Moving forward, the researchers hope to dig even deeper into their data to probe what kinds of impacts these changes might have. Does the presence of women in national legislatures lead to an increase in education levels or the life expectancy of citizens? For now, they said that the results point to one big conclusion.

"The quick takeaway here is that critical mass theory is not dead," Philips said.

More information: Kendall D. Funk et al, Point break: using machine learning to uncover a critical mass in women's representation, Political Science Research and Methods (2021). Kendall D. Funk et al, Point break: using machine learning to uncover a critical mass in women's representation,(2021). DOI: 10.1017/psrm.2021.51
HUDSON FALLS  A Hudson Falls woman has been arrested after police said she provided false information on a welfare application.

Emily E. Bailey, 25, was charged with felony counts of fourth-degree grand larceny and first-degree offering a false instrument for filing.

The arrest followed a joint investigation conducted by the Washington County Sheriffs Office and Washington County Department of Social Services. The investigation determined that Bailey had received $1,391.87 in temporary assistance benefits to which she was not entitled, according to a news release.

Bailey was issued an appearance ticket and is due in Fort Edward Town Court at a later date.

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Queensbury and Glens Falls would be drawn into a new state Senate district stretching west to Utica, in Oneida County, and Oneonta, in Otsego County, under a plan proposed by Democrats on the states new Independent Redistricting Commission.

The change could potentially set up a primary next year between Sen. Dan Stec, R-Queensbury, and fellow freshman Sen. Peter Oberacker, R-Maryland, in Otsego County.

Warren County would be split into two Senate districts, with towns from Lake George north drawn into a district that would stretch to Plattsburgh in Clinton County, and west to Ogdensburg in St. Lawrence County.

Political leaders emphasized that the maps are merely first drafts that will be discussed at a series of public hearings in the coming weeks.

Its all conjecture.  What were seeing now is not what were going to ultimately see, said Warren County Democratic Chairwoman Lynne Boecher.

I think these maps will change yet again, said state Assemblyman Matt Simpson, R-Horicon.

There also has been discussion that Glens Falls and Queensbury might be drawn into the district that Sen. Daphne Jordan, R-Halfmoon, now represents, setting up a potential primary next year between two regional stalwart conservatives.

Boecher said that scenario would seem more realistic than the one currently mapped out.

Thats fine with me, she said, referring to the second scenario.

Under either scenario, the member representing Glens Falls and Queensbury, Stec, and Republicans Elizabeth Little and Ronald Stafford before, would no longer be the primary voice in the Senate on Adirondack Park issues.

For decades, since 1967, Glens Falls and Queensbury have been aligned with Plattsburgh, to the north, in a district that encompasses much of the Adirondack Park.

Franklin County Republican Chairman Kevin Mulverhill said he would not comment on the specific proposed district boundaries because he has not yet seen the maps, but, in general, it is important to keep the eastern Adirondack counties in the same Senate district.

Any removal of Sen. Stec would be a loss for the North County. So, I would find it hard to support that, he said.

Stec did not return messages left on two separate days with an aide at his district office seeking comment for this report.

Simpson said hed rather not comment on the proposed Senate district boundaries, but that its been valuable, from an Assembly standpoint, to keep contiguous Adirondack counties in a common district for cohesiveness.

Oneida County Republican Chairman Peter Sobel said he would not comment because he had not yet seen the maps.

Local Assembly district boundaries would be less drastically altered.

One proposed district would stretch from Milton, in Saratoga County, north through Warren County and into Essex County.

It would include Horicon, the home town of Simpson, and Glens Falls and Queensbury.

Another Assembly district would cover portions of Saratoga and Washington counties, including Mechanicville and Malta, the hometown of current Democratic Assemblywoman Carrie Woerner.

On the congressional side, the southern boundary of the district that Rep. Elise Stefanik, R-Scuylerville, now represents, would be extended to include Gloversville and Amsterdam, the home town of Rep. Paul Tonko, a Democrat.

The new district would still have a Republican enrollment advantage.

Boecher said she doubts that Stefanik and Tonko will ultimately be in the same congressional district.

The plan is one of two plans that the commission will soon be holding a series of public hearings on.

The commission also will hold public hearings on a plan that Republican members of the commission proposed.

Political experts say that there is virtually no chance of the Republican plan being enacted, as Democrats have a two-thirds majority in both houses of the Legislature.

The commission has until Jan. 15 to submit a final plan to the Legislature, which the legislature can either accept or reject.

If the Legislature rejects the first plan, it would be sent back to the commission for revision.

If the revised plan is rejected, the Legislature would take over the redistricting process.

Congressional and legislative district boundaries are redrawn every 10 years, based on the U.S. Census.

New York is losing one House seat, dropping from 27 to 26 representatives statewide, under the once-a-decade redistricting process based on the U.S. Census.

New Yorks overall population actually increased over the past decade, but that wasnt enough to keep pace with the growth of other states. If the 2020 Census had found just 89 additional residents statewide, New York would have avoided losing any of its House seats, according to data the U.S. Census Bureau released in late April.

The number of state Senate and Assembly districts will be the same.

Boecher said there is a lot of dissatisfaction with the first set of maps.

I dont think either the Democrats or the Republicans are happy with the maps, she said.

Simpson said he supports the independent commission process and expects maps will be revised after the public hearing process.

Im looking forward to the next set of maps that will hopefully reflect an independent redistricting, he said.

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QUEENSBURY  The public will have an opportunity to weigh in on a proposal to ban the sale and use of personal fireworks in Warren County.

County officials are considering rescinding a local law passed in 2015, which opted into the state law that allowed the sale and use of certain fireworks. This includes sparkling devices that take the form of cylindrical- or cone-shaped fountains, wooden sparklers and dipped sticks, and party poppers.

The fireworks can be sold between June 1 and July 5 and Dec. 26 through Jan. 2.

Lake George Supervisor Dennis Dickinson has expressed concern about the effect on peoples quality of life with these fireworks being shot off in neighborhoods and he suggested they be banned. The Lake George Village Board also passed a resolution in support of rescinding the law.

About 50 people responded to an online survey  most in favor of scrapping the law.

The countys Governmental Operations and Advocacy Committee is recommending that the full Board of Supervisors set a public hearing in December at a special committee meeting held in the evening.

Queensbury at-Large Supervisor Mike Wild said at the committees Oct. 18 meeting that he wanted to hear more from the community and suggested holding a meeting at a time other than the 10 a.m. full board meeting.

I really dont have a clear picture in mind of exactly what the public is thinking about this. If we can do it in the evening, at least we can have the opportunity to hear more voices, he said.

Glens Falls 5th Ward Supervisor Ben Driscoll asked if the county could rescind just a piece of the law.

Acting County Attorney Robert Terwilliger said the county could repeal the entire law or just parts of it.

Another concern is the earliest that the board could rescind the law is at the December meeting.

Bolton Supervisor Ron Conover said he was concerned about interfering with peoples business plans by having the law take effect in December.

Board of Supervisors Chairwoman Rachel Seeber said the county could make the law take effect at the end of January or beginning of February, so it does not impose any hardship on businesses.

The fireworks could still be sold around the Christmas and New Years holidays.

She also wanted to hear from the public.

Weve received probably more emails and phone calls and inquiries about this topic than we have had on many topics throughout the year, she said.

The date for the special public hearing is to be announced.

Michael Goot covers politics, crime and courts, Warren County, education and business. Reach him at 518-742-3320 or mgoot@poststar.com.

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Opposition to the offshore wind turbines has built as the project gets closer to reality. In his comments, Gillian mentioned concerns raised by commercial and recreational fishing groups.

The project should not move forward until all concerns of the fishing communities are adequately addressed, he said, also saying potential threats to the environment and to the public should also be addressed.

Gillian mentioned that rsted has reached out to his office about the possibility of community impact payments. He wants that, too.

Ocean Wind should provide Ocean City with an annual impact fee and fund a flood mitigation project in the area where transmission lines would cross under the island, he said.

Ocean City residents will have a chance to hear about the project at an open house set for 10 a.m. Nov. 6 at the Ocean City Music Pier, Moorlyn Terrace and the Boardwalk.

rsted originally planned to locate the turbines closer to the beach, but amended those plans early in the process, with the closest turbine 15 miles offshore. In previous comments, officials with the company said it would not be possible to locate the project entirely over the horizon.
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP  Governments, academics and scientists are proposing an ambitious effort to improve the health of Barnegat Bay, the fragile New Jersey waterway that has been loved to death.

The Barnegat Bay Partnership, a constellation of groups dedicated to helping the bay, on Tuesday unveiled a detailed and far-reaching plan to improve water quality, increase the number of days that bay beaches are open for swimming, increase the amount of shellfish, and address an explosion of jellyfish in the bay that is making parts of it difficult to use.

Officials from federal, state and local governments signed the pledge, but it remains to be seen what, if any, specific actions will be taken in furtherance of those goals. Many groups say they will begin or continue projects aimed at improving the overall health of the bay.

The Barnegat Bay in its current state is a jewel of the Jersey Shore, but it has some serious problems, said Stan Hales, director of the partnership. The bay has been loved to death.

Environmentalists and government officials have long recognized threats to Barnegat Bay, including rampant development along its shorelines and interior watershed areas, and the resulting flow of pesticides and nitrogen from lawn fertilizer and agricultural uses that makes its way into the bay.
So its worth asking what, if anything, the Biden administration is doing about these thawing relations between Assad and Americas Arab allies. To be sure, the U.S. maintains its policy of not recognizing Assads government. A State Department official has told me and other journalists that there are no plans for the U.S. to upgrade its diplomatic relationship to Syria and that the U.S. does not encourage others to do so, given the atrocities inflicted by the Assad regime on the Syrian people.

Thats fine as far as it goes. But no U.S. official has publicly criticized Abdullahs phone call or any other recent Arab entreaties to Damascus. Nor, Im told, has any U.S. official warned Arab allies that increased trade with Syria and other diplomatic contact could risk running afoul of recent legislation that sanctions Syrian officials, including Assad himself, for war crimes. Starting in June 2020, the U.S. began designating dozens of Syrian officials under the legislation. Under Biden, the U.S. has made no new designations.
October 26, 2021 in FileMaker (E)

[prMac.com] Prague, Czech Republic - 24U releases BenchTest 2.0 for Claris FileMaker and announces Oct 27 FileMaker Performance Lab meeting.

The free performance testing tool now allows for scoring specific FileMaker client-server configuration performance and comparing it to others.



24U Software has released BenchTest 2.0, the performance testing tool used since 2013 to compare performance of various development techniques, different versions of FileMaker Pro and FileMaker Server and different hardware and OS configurations.



After performing over 200,000 performance tests on 24U's test equipment and presenting their results at several international FileMaker developer conferences in the USA and Europe, 24U made a new version of the BenchTest tool available to the community as a public beta at the January 2021 FileMaker Performance Lab online meeting. Starting today, the final version 2.0 of BenchTest is available as a free download from the 24U Software website.



The main addition to the tool is a standard set of 111 performance tests that allow anyone easily perform the same pre-define test set to compare their configuration's performance with the reference "laboratory" equipment and calculate the performance score of the configuration being tested. The performed test results are automatically published on the BenchTest web page, sorted by the calculated score.



Following this release, 24U also hosts another FileMaker Performance Lab online meeting to discuss BenchTest and FileMaker performance testing and optimization techniques. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, the 27th of October 2021 at 8:00 AM PDT / 11:00 AM EDT / 3:00 PM GMT / 17:00 CEST.



Key Features of BenchTest 2.0

* 1 million pre-generated test records ensure consistent conditions across configurations

* 126 predefined tests to easily compare speed of different ways to do the same thing

* Built-in automation for repeating the same set of tests on different FileMaker versions

* Support for execution of tests on multiple concurrent clients (workers)

* Pre-defined "standard test" for comparing particular configuration performance with others

* Online listing of top submitted "standard test" results featured on the BenchTest homepage



About BenchTest:

To provide consistent results across platforms, FileMaker versions and users, BenchTest comes with random-generated data set consisting of two tables, one with 250 records and one with 1,000,000 records. The actual test data is then generated out of this data set using a fixed algorithm in order o produce a data file simulating real-life database with large amount of indexed records.



BenchTest comes with 126 predefined tests organized in 14 groups intended to compare performance of different techniques to achieve the same result. It also comes with an easy way to automate repeating the same series of tests on different FileMaker versions or different configurations.



BenchTest 2.0 can also perform the tests on multiple workers to test how your FileMaker Server will really handle multiple concurrent clients. The tool automatically coordinates starting each step on all workers at the same time.



Pre-defined "standard test" set consisting of exactly 111 tests lets users securely submit their test results to 24U's server to get their setup's performance scored by comparing it to 24U's reference equipment performance. The overall score is calculated as a weighed average of the 111 individual tests with the intention for higher score to mean "faster configuration" for usual FileMaker solution tasks.



Software Requirements:

BenchTest works with FileMaker Pro 12 or newer, but some tests and features may require higher version. FileMaker Pro 17 or newer is required to submit standard test results for scoring and comparison. FileMaker Pro 18 or newer is required to measure hard disk speed. At least 20 GB of free disk space is recommended for running the standard test set.



Pricing and Availability:

BenchTest 2.0 and the pre-generated test data is immediately available for download free of charge from the 24U Software website. Full development access to the tool can be easily unlocked by subscribers of the free "24U News & Tips" e-mail newsletter.

With customers in 76 countries and 30 years of experience with the Claris FileMaker platform, 24U excels in developing new or taking care of existing custom desktop, web and mobile apps, optimizing their performance, identifying and resolving potential issues and liabilities, improving reliability, stability and scalability, integrating them with other systems including various hardware devices, and extending them beyond expectation. As a Claris Platinum Partner, 24U helps global businesses around the world to maintain sustainable growth by working with their in-house developers or completely taking care of the maintenance and development of their business solutions. (C) 2021 24U s.r.o. All rights reserved. 24U, 24U Software are trademarks of 24U s.r.o. FileMaker is a trademark of FileMaker, Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

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The close of retail outlets, restaurants and bars due to the pandemic cut off distillers from their main connection to drinkers. So early last year, many distillers around the country pivoted production. Some turned to making hand sanitizer instead of gin and whiskey.

Others batched reserve bottles into take-home cocktail kits, made new partnerships with direct-to-consumer companies and launched new ready-to-drink lines to capture trends.

Some of these shifts may last, some may not. Either way, its an excellent time to celebrate the resiliency  and deliciousness  of craft distilling in the U.S. Because distribution laws vary state to state, the products below may not be available where you live. Check each site directly, or use this as inspiration to visit some of your own local distillers.

Rum may be the spirit of the Caribbean, but it has roots in New England, from where 1700s island distillers imported molasses to make local rum.

Theres a deep, rich history of rum in New England and we had an opportunity to bring it back, says Bob McCoy (pictured), director of sales at Privateer Rum in Ipswich, Massachusetts. Some rums are sweetened and flavored and artificial. We dont have to sweeten, color or filter our rums. With a great spirit, the still will do the talking for us.

New England Daiquiri This maple-sweetened daiquiri is prepared fresh and shaken, not blended.

For nine years, head distiller, Maggie Campbell, helped build a name for this distillery, founded by Andrew Cabot in 2011.

Current director of production, Dylan Turner, aims to continue to make older, stronger, tastier rums, McCoy says, using long, cool fermentation and sugar cane grown in a single valley in Santa Lucia, Guatemala. Were recreating what we call a New England style, McCoy says.

When head distiller, Joe OSullivan, started to work at Clear Creek Distillery in 2005, hed shock people when he said all Clear Creeks ingredients came from within 50 miles of their Hood River, Oregon, company just east of Portland.

It was mind-blowing to people that it was an option, OSullivan says. What makes us unique is these connections we have with orchardists and berry growers and farmers we work with going on 35 years.

Pear Brandy Sidecar A classic since the 1920s, quality pears make all the difference in this brandy-forward delight.

Founded in 1985 by Steve McCarthy and owned by Hood River Distillers since 2014, Clear Creek was among a handful of small, principled distilleries that helped establish a farm to glass trend, OSullivan explains.

Now, Clear Creek is best known for its fruit brandies, some clear, some aged, starting with locally sourced pears, cherries, blue plums and raspberries. Most striking is its pear-in-a-bottle brandy, made by slipping bottles over barely developed pear buds and waiting for them to grow and ripen. Clear Creek is also celebrated nationally for its excellent liqueurs, too, made from Marionberries, currants, loganberries and more.

What makes gin sing in a cocktail? According to Dampfwerk, a family-run distillery just outside of Minneapolis, its not just the botanicals. Its how they use them.

You can make gin in two hours, says Bridgit Loeffelholz, Dampfwerks creative director. We slow it to five or six. Were running our still really slowly so those botanicals are under tension longer. You get a lot of undertones.

Dampfwerks London dry gin focuses on gins key botanicals, including coriander, angelica, orris root, lemon peel and, of course, juniper. Some they pre-soak, to soften them.

Espresso Martini This sophisticated take on the popular dessert drink combines peppermint liqueur with cold brew.

The result is a woodsy, resinous gin, earthy in style, with freshness from citrus at the front end and a nuttiness on the back. For a barrel-aged version, they use red wine barrels which allow the floral aromas to sing a little more. It really carries through in every cocktail you put it into, Loeffelholz says.

Dampfwerk is family-operated; Loeffelholzs parents are co-owners. Her German-born father, Ralf, is the main distiller and her brother, Christian, works on gin and whiskey.

Ralf really created everything to be drunk neat, Loeffelholz says. This includes the Crane gin, inspired by an ancient Prussian recipe. More juniper, plus rosemary, lavender, chamomile and clove, make it almost like an herbal liqueur.

Flavored vodka feels like a relic of the 1990s, with flavors like coconut, whipped cream, blue raspberry and cake. Cathead Distillerys mission takes a different approach. The distillery in downtown Jackson, Mississippi, instead prepares small-batch products that evoke the flavors of the South.

Cathead, the first legal distillery in the state, was founded in 2010. It infuses several of its corn-based vodkas, such as an aromatic honeysuckle vodka, and a toasted pecan version, which is currently on production pause.

Co-founder Richard Patrick approached the former as a liqueur, blending slowly to capture the mouthfeel and flavor of the honeysuckle more than the floral aromas. We make natural honeysuckle into an extract using the white flowers, Patrick says. Its very effervescent.

In spring, Cathead released a bitter orange vodka made with extract from the Satsuma mandarins that start appearing in Southern grocery stores each November.

In 2013, former merchant mariners and longtime friends, Bill Karlson and John OMara, founded their distillery in Manassas, Virginia, with a love of great whiskey. Their two main product lines  Bare Knuckle and Distillers Reserve  are made with rye, wheat, corn and malted barley from Virginia farms and they are fermented with a workhorse yeast that lets the grain do the talking.

Whiskey & Spiced Cider Shrub Cocktail With notes of butterscotch, vanilla and anise, this warm whiskey drink is just as complex as it is sweet.

The grain is really what puts forward all the beautiful flavors, says Peter Mowery, Virginia sales and marketing director for KO. For example, Mowery says, the cask strength version of the Bare Knuckle straight rye whiskey, which ranges from 120 to 128 proof, surprises people with its flavor profile.

KO recently released a high rye bourbon, both in single-barrel and cask strength expressions. A bottled-in-bond rye is aged at least four years in new, charred American oak.

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WHAT WE KNOW: The Colona Police Department had been pricing a new repeater system for its radios to improve on the current linker system.

WHAT'S NEW: Colona aldermen on Monday approved spending up to $20,000 on a repeater system that will get a signal and broadcast it out to all Colona police radios. The old linker system transmits a signal that goes to the linker and straight to the Henry County Sheriff's Department. "Our cars can't hear it," said Police Chief Mike Swemline, noting it creates officer safety issues. The new system will be different. "It's just a better system than what we have," he said.

Public Works Director Mike Stephens said he will get back with a camper at Colona's Scott Family Park who had a tree branch come through the roof of his $90,000 camper, causing $13,000 in damage. Camper Dennis Peterson said his insurance won't cover the loss because the tree was "no good." He also said he had problems with electrical service at the resort and as a result, lost his A/C. Stephens commiserated. "We've been out there all year with electricians trying to fix things, but it takes money to do it," he said.
Development at 20 Weeks. The baby weighs about 10 ounces and is a little more than 6 inches long. The baby can suck a thumb, yawn, stretch, and make faces. Soon  if you haven't already  you'll feel your baby move, which is called "quickening."

An ultrasound is usually done for all pregnant women at 20 weeks. ... You can see the baby's heartbeat and movement of its body, arms, and legs on the ultrasound. You can usually find out whether it's a boy or a girl at 20 weeks.

Development at 24 Weeks. The baby weighs about 1.4 pounds now and responds to sounds by moving or increasing their pulse. You may notice jerking motions if they hiccup. With the inner ear fully developed, the baby may be able to sense being upside down in the womb.

Development at 28 Weeks. The baby weighs about 2 pounds, 6 ounces, and changes position often at this point in pregnancy. If you had to deliver prematurely now, there is a good chance the baby would survive.

Now, if you still doubt that the fetus is a human being with the same right to life that you enjoy, go to the WebMD site and look at the ultrasound images.
Workers will be eligible for $275 weekly strike pay from the UAW on the 15th day of the strike on Oct. 28, according to the UAW website. To qualify for strike pay, members must be up-to-date on their dues, participating in the strike, and on active payroll at the start of the strike.

One of the union workers said the strike pay will help for a time but since it is significantly lower than employees regular income, it will still be difficult to survive if the strike goes on for an extended period of time.

We are productive individuals so most of us aren't satisfied with just sitting around and not advancing our finances, the worker said.

The worker said most of the employees on strike are looking for temporary employment to supplement their incomes. If members receive gross pay from outside work that is equal or greater to the strike assistance, they will not receive that benefit, according to the UAW.

How long will it go?

It is difficult to save for a strike without knowing the exact time frame, according to Edwards. The last Deere strike in 1986 lasted for 163 days.
Sharon said it has been a year and a half of change for her family.

"It came out of nowhere, so it's just heartbreaking, especially for her sister who was her best friend. She took it the hardest. They were together every day, on the phone or in person, they were always together," Sharon said. "It just affected the family as a whole, because since she was the oldest, she was kind of the one that held everybody together, and she made sure everybody stayed together and made sure everybody had what they needed.

"We just sit back sometimes like, 'Italia should be here. Italia should be doing this. We should be with Italia,' and it's just not the same ... We're starting to finally come to terms with her passing. I think what hit us the hardest is how she passed."

Sharon said she was shocked when Belz was arrested, because Italia and her sister considered him a good friend. They'd known Belz since he was about 14, and Sharon has pictures and videos of him smiling and laughing with her two daughters.

"What I'm told is that there was an argument on Facebook, and he stated he was going to hurt her on Facebook, and that's all I know," Sharon said. "We never thought he would do anything."
CHICAGO (AP) 

When the discovery of more than two dozen bodies stashed under John Wayne Gacy's house near Chicago was making headlines all over the world in the late 1970s, Francis Wayne Alexander's family in New York didn't think much of it. The way they saw it, Alexander had cut off communication with them because he wanted to be left alone.

Then came news this month that for more than 40 years, the man they knew as Wayne was known as Victim #5 in the city where he had gone to start a new life. They were told that DNA tests on the remains of one of the half-dozen unidentified victims of the notorious serial killer were Alexander's.

They just loved him, but they thought that he wanted nothing more to do with them, so thats why there was never a missing persons report, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said at a news conference Monday announcing the latest victim identification.

Though Dart said Alexander's mother and other relatives didn't want to speak publicly about his identification as a Gacy victim, Alexander's sister, Carolyn Sanders, made clear that the family never stopped thinking of what might have become of him.
The expanded vaccination effort would come to an age group that saw a sizeable rise in detected cases during the last surge. For the first time this pandemic, there were more COVID-19 cases confirmed in kids ages 5 to 11 than those 12-17, and there were more cases in the younger age group during the last surge as there was during the fall 2020 surge.

Part of the reason pediatricians will be able to give the shots is because the vaccine may be easier to handle, logistically, than those for adults. The childrens Pfizer vaccine is formulated differently than the one for adults. Kids will receive one-third the dose that adults received, and the childrens doses will be available in smaller packages. The new formulation can also be stored for longer in a regular freezer  10 weeks versus 31 days for the current one.

Also, some pediatricians have been offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in their offices to kids ages 12 and older in recent months, giving them the experience necessary to roll out shots quickly for younger kids, doctors say.

Dr. Akanksha Hannas pediatric office, Advocate Medical Group Yacktman Pediatrics in Park Ridge, has vaccinated about 200 kids ages 12 and older since early August.
The number (in the thousands) of parents being separated from their children without keeping track of where the two groups have gone is unforgivable. So many of our citizens don't want "those people" (immigrants) here. Being an immigrant has come to mean being evil and unwanted. Much of these opinions have promoted the real evil people, especially Donald Trump, who initiated the separation of families without ways to get them back together.

This country has been built by the efforts of immigrants for centuries, building on the work of the original native Americans. My family came here from Wiltshire, England in the 1630s. My wife's family came here from Austria in the early 1900s. Without them and so many others like them our country would not have been. But I know they were European white people, and many of the current immigrants are not. That is one of the primary reasons why immigrants are not accepted  racism. I know that and so do you. Because of that, the separation of families with the subsequent difficulty reconnecting them is evil and must be corrected. I hear so many people brag this is a "Christian nation." It's about time we acted like it.
A Pennington County judge dismissed one count of aiding and abetting for first-degree murder for four defendants charged with killing a co-conspirator.

Judge Jeffrey Connolly dismissed the charge Oct. 22 against William Long, Travis Nelson, Tracy Laughlin and Gilbert Reyna, who face a five-count indictment for allegedly kidnapping and assaulting Jake Williams on April 9.

According to the dismissal, Long, Nelson, Laughlin and Reyna were also charged with aiding and abetting in the first degree murder of Jesus Vance, who allegedly worked with the four defendants to kidnap Williams. Williams allegedly shot Vance while trying to escape.

Connolly wrote that the prosecution was asking the court to apply South Dakotas felony-murder statute in a way that it appears never to have been applied before with the charge.

In doing so, the State seems to ask the court to significantly depart from the classic common law approach of felony murder South Dakota has followed since statehood, he wrote. And the result the state seeks has been widely rejected by courts throughout the United States.

The four defendants still face two counts of kidnapping in the second degree, two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, and habitual offender charges.

Long still faces a total of 100 years in prison.

Case history

Police responded to reports of shots fired at the South Dakota Rose Inn on East Boulevard North on April 9. When officers arrived they found a man with non-life threatening injuries and a man shot dead inside one of the hotel rooms.

The Journal previously reported that the four suspects, all of Rapid City, used a cutting instrument against Williams, 37, who was the man found outside the motel.

Nelson was found 20 days after the reports of shots fired while Laughlin was found after a month of evading police. Laughlin was taken into custody during a traffic stop near Eglin and east North streets in June.

 Contact Siandhara Bonnet at siandhara.bonnet@rapidcityjournal.com 

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Almost a week after 24-year-old Leon Richards was stabbed to death in north Rapid City, police believe a portion of the events leading up to his death were captured by phone video.

Brendyn Medina, spokesperson for the Rapid City Police Department, said law enforcement believes a group of witnesses was present at the Oct. 19 stabbing. He said numerous leads have been developed and followed.

Medina said the conclusion is based on evidence gathered from the scene of the crime.

"We've developed reason to believe that this incident or the circumstances leading up to it may have been captured," he said. "That's why we're putting the call out that anybody who may have been in the group or part of the group with evidence that may include video come forward and help us out."

Medina said there may be a gang component to the crime as well.

Police responded to a report of a stabbing around 4:10 a.m. Oct. 19 at 120 Surfwood Drive where they found Richards with several stab wounds. Hours after being transported to the hospital, he died.

Medina said those with first-hand knowledge or video evidence should contact Detective Dan Trainer at 605-394-4134. An anonymous tip can be submitted to 847411 by texting "RCPD" and the information.

 Contact Siandhara Bonnet at siandhara.bonnet@rapidcityjournal.com 

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Montana Sen. Jon Tester has sent a letter to a U.S. Department of Agriculture official requesting the agency reopen land it owns outside Miles City to hunters.

Citing recent fires and low deer populations, this fall Fort Keogh Livestock and Range Research Laboratory shut off access to more than 55,400 acres it has annually enrolled in the state Block Management Program. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, which administers the program, said on average the fort hosted 1,300 hunter days a year.

Fort Keogh is one of the few large, publicly accessible blocks of land available to sportsmen and women in the Miles City area, Tester wrote to Chavonda Jacobs-Young, administrator of the USDA Agricultural Research Service. I share the concerns of local hunters who have contacted my office about their inability to hunt at the station and urge ARS to reopen the facility to the fullest extent possible.

Although recognizing the USDAs reasons for closing off access, Tester said he was troubled that the decision to close Fort Keogh to hunters is inconsistent with access at the property in previous drought years and with most other publicly-accessible lands currently facing similar drought conditions across the state.

He went on to note the issue is particularly concerning given the ongoing issues at Fort Keogh with public access for fishermen, which I am still working to resolve. The senator was referring to the 2013 closure of a fishing access site on the USDA property following vandalism. A local contingent of hunters and anglers has been working to reopen the site along the Yellowstone River, but keeps running into roadblocks.

In closing, Tester requested that the USDA prioritize clear and consistent communication with impacted hunters and other stakeholders and work to reopen the facility.

The fort is located just outside Miles City along the Tongue and Yellowstone rivers.

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TOKYO (AP)  Japanese Princess Mako quietly married a commoner without traditional wedding celebrations Tuesday and said their marriage  delayed three years and opposed by some  "was a necessary choice to live while cherishing our hearts."

The marriage to Kei Komuro cost Mako her royal status. She received her husband's surname  the first time she has had a family name. Most Japanese women must abandon their own family names upon marriage due to a law requiring only one surname per married couple.

The couple's marriage document was submitted by a palace official on Tuesday morning and made official, the Imperial Household Agency said. There was no wedding banquet or other marriage rituals for the couple. The agency has acknowledged that many people have not welcomed their marriage.

Keep scrolling for a gallery of photos from the marriage announcement

"For me, Kei-san is a priceless person. For us, our marriage was a necessary choice to live while cherishing our hearts," Mako said in a televised news conference, using an honorific in speaking of her husband.

Komuro responded: "I love Mako. I live only once and I want to spend it with someone I love." He said he hopes to be with Mako to share feelings and encourage each other in happy times and difficult times.

"I hope to have a warm family with Mako-san, and I will continue to do everything to support her," he said.

Mako earlier declined a 140 million yen ($1.23 million) payment to which she was entitled for leaving the imperial family, palace officials said. She is the first imperial family member since World War II to not receive the payment and chose to do so because of criticism of the marriage.

Mako, who turned 30 three days before the marriage, is a niece of Emperor Naruhito. She and Komuro, who were classmates at Tokyo's International Christian University, announced in September 2017 that they intended to marry the following year, but a financial dispute involving his mother surfaced two months later and the wedding was suspended.

On Tuesday morning, Mako left the palace wearing a pale blue dress and holding a bouquet. She bowed outside the residence to her parents, Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, and her sister Kako, and then the sisters hugged each other.

The couple did not answer questions at the news conference as Mako had expressed unease about responding in person. Instead, they provided written answers to questions submitted by the media beforehand, including those about his mother's financial issues.

Mako is recovering from what palace doctors described earlier this month as a form of traumatic stress disorder that she developed after seeing negative media coverage about their marriage, especially attacks on Komuro.

"We have been horrified, scared and saddened ... as false information has been taken as fact and that unfounded stories have spread," Mako said in a written answer to one of the questions.

The dispute involves whether money his mother received from her former fiance was a loan or a gift. Mako's father asked Komuro to clarify, and he wrote a statement defending himself, but it is still unclear if the dispute has been fully resolved.

Komuro, 30, left for New York in 2018 to study law and only returned to Japan last month. His hair was tied in a ponytail at the time and the look drew attention as a bold statement for someone marrying a princess in the tradition-bound imperial family and only added to the criticism.

The couple will move together to New York to start a new life.

Many in Tokyo wished them good luck.

"Congratulations," said office worker Yasuhiro Suzuki. "I hope people in America will welcome them."

Retiree Kenko Suzuki said he expects life in New York will be challenging because they will have to live without people taking care of them. "So I'm rooting for them," he said.

"There will be different kinds of difficulties as we start our new life, but we'll walk together as we have done so in the past," Mako said, thanking everyone who supported them.

Mako, apparently referring to mental health issues, noted "many people have difficulty and hurt feelings while trying to protect their hearts." She said, "I sincerely hope that our society will be a place where more people can live and protect their hearts with the help of warm help and support from others."

Mako is not the only female royal whose mental health was strained by attacks from inside and outside the palace.

Her grandmother, Empress Emerita Michiko, wife of former Emperor Akihito and the first commoner married to a monarch in modern history, collapsed and temporarily lost her voice in 1993 following persistent negative coverage.

Empress Masako, a Harvard-educated former diplomat, has had a stress-induced mental condition for nearly 20 years, in part because of criticism over not producing a male heir.

Some critics say Mako's marriage highlights the difficulties faced by women in the Japanese imperial household.

Mako's loss of royal status comes from the Imperial House Law, which allows only male succession.

Only male royals have household names, while female imperial family members have only titles and must leave if they marry commoners.

The male-only succession practice leaves only Akishino and his son, Prince Hisahito, in line to succeed Emperor Naruhito. A panel of government-appointed experts is discussing a more stable succession system, but conservatives still reject female succession and allowing women to head the imperial family.

Associated Press journalist Chisato Tanaka contributed to this report.

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Historically, employers have required that pregnant workers take a leave of absence if pregnancy prevented them from continuing in their roles. Under Virginia law, this is a last resort. The law states that an employer cannot require an employee to take leave if another reasonable accommodation can be provided to the known limitations related to the pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions of the employee.

Employers also violate the state law if they:

fail to make reasonable accommodations;

take adverse action against an employee who requests or uses a reasonable accommodation pursuant to this section; or

deny employment or promotion opportunities to an otherwise qualified applicant or employee because such employer will be required to make reasonable accommodation to the known limitations of such applicant or employee related to pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.

If an employee announces she is pregnant in a job interview, the employer cannot reject her candidacy as a result.

Employees who are aggrieved under the law have a right to sue in state court within two years or they can file a complaint with the Office of Civil Rights of the Department of Law and can then file suit in state court following the issuance of the right to sue.

Virginia employers were caught a bit off guard with the flurry of employment legislation passed in the past two years, but they need to be aware of this and the many other new requirements.
There are exceptions to this trend. George Mason, which educates more Pell Grant recipients than any other public school in the state, saw its enrollment grow 2%. Mary Washington, which educates fewer Pell recipients, saw a 12% drop.

Last year, high school students in the state completed fewer forms for the FAFSA  the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. Students who fill out the form are more likely to be from low- and middle-income families. They enroll in college at lower rates, and the decline in FAFSA completion indicates they are likely to fall further behind, Allison said.

High schools in Virginia with high concentrations of poverty saw their FAFSA completion rate fall 22%, which was three times worse than the national average for high-poverty schools.

Students who graduated last spring often needed to work after high school to help their families, said Cherrelle Davis, a counselor at Petersburg High. Others struggled with Zoom classes. If they didnt engage with a topic, they checked out.

Why go into debt just to sit in a room and do all my classes through Zoom? said Skye Scott, an adviser for the Virginia College Advising Corps at Buckingham High. It didnt make sense to all our students.
In the meantime, Chesterfield County Public Schools has barred employees from learning about critical race theory in their professional development. They must sign a form promising that the training course doesnt include CRT.

In Chesterfield, our goal is unity, not division, Ryan Harter, chairman of the Chesterfield School Board, said at meeting in June in which he denounced critical race theory.

On Tuesday, in an email, Harter said: While this discussion is occurring at the collegiate level, this is not part of Virginias approved curriculum. As such, because our school division follows the state curriculum, this is not part of Chesterfield Schools instruction.

No one, except the folks throwing a hissy fit, ever said it was. Why go through the trouble of denouncing something that doesnt exist in your county? This scenario only makes sense if youre seeking to purge racism from discussion in public schools.

Condoleezza Rice, the former U.S. secretary of state, argued on the talk show The View last week that one of the worries that I have is that somehow white people now have to feel guilty for everything that happened in the past.
The Henry District is losing 768 people to the Cold Harbor District, including those who live on the north side of Old Church Road.

Additionally, the proposed changes affect more than a dozen precinct and polling places. The only district thats not affected by any changes is Mechanicsville.

Kevin Nelson, Hanovers information technology director, said residents redistricting concerns dont have much to do with the districts themselves.

Rather, it is absolutely about who represents you and where you vote, he said. While the county works to keep neighborhoods intact, sometimes its not possible.

We do our best [but] it comes down to numbers, he said, referring to the laws specifying that the districts have similar populations. You have to be plus or minus 2.5%  thats a hard and fast rule.

In addition to ensuring each election district has a similar number of residents, localities must follow other federal and state laws when defining election districts. The areas must be compact, contiguous  there can be no gaps in between districts  and follow physical boundaries, such as roads or bodies of water rather than property boundaries.
A suspect is in custody after two people were killed and four injured, including a police officer, in a shooting at a shopping mall Monday in Boise, Idaho.
Mary Margaret Kastelberg, the Republican challenger in a Henrico County election that could determine control of the House of Delegates, is crying foul over television ads by her opponent that she said deliberately misrepresent her positions on the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 and a stringent anti-abortion law Texas adopted this year.

Kastelberg accused Del. Rodney Willett, D-Henrico, of airing an ad that falsely claims she defended then-President Donald Trump during the attack on the Capitol by his supporters, even though she says her opponent knows she strongly condemned the violence and urged punishment of those who instigated it.

She said Willett also is airing an ad that says she is standing with people who want Virginia to adopt anti-abortion legislation such as the law that the U.S. Supreme Court has allowed to take effect in Texas, prohibiting abortions as early as six weeks after conception and deputizing citizens to enforce it.

Kastelberg noted that Willett was seated 6 feet away when she said in a public debate this month that she would not carry such legislation or support it.

He is misleading voters, being dishonest about my positions and he knows it, she said in an email on Tuesday, a week before the election for the 73rd House District.
Republican Glenn Youngkin poured $3.5 million more of his own money into his campaign for governor in the first three weeks of October, bringing his personal contributions to $20 million.

Youngkin, a former private equity executive, and Democrat Terry McAuliffe, locked in a tight contest for governor, continued to shatter the states fundraising record, collectively bringing in $28 million in the first three weeks of the month.

They had collectively raised $117 million through Oct. 21, dwarfing the previous high. Democrat Ralph Northam and Republican Ed Gillespie had combined to raise $64.7 million at this stage in 2017, according to the Virginia Public Access Project.

In the contest for attorney general, Republican challenger Jason Miyares surged past Democratic incumbent Mark Herring in fundraising and cash on hand in the latest reporting period, while in the contest for lieutenant governor Democrat Hala Ayala far surpassed Republican Winsome Sears.

As Democrats seek to retain control of the House of Delegates, the partys most vulnerable incumbents brought in huge sums in the homestretch. Eleven Democrats  nine of them incumbents  raised at least $500,000 in the three-week period, topped by Del. Wendy Gooditis, D-Clarke, who raised $1.38 million in three weeks.
BRUSSELS (AP)  European Union ministers on Tuesday held emergency talks focused on energy that did not produce immediate results amid deep divergences between the 27 member countries on how to tackle a crunch that has seen consumers' bills skyrocket this year.

The wave of price hikes is not set to abate before next spring, and ministers discussed a set of short-term measures that have been put forward by the European Commission to help consumers and businesses weather the shock.

The main reason behind the sharp spike is increased global demand for energy, and gas in particular. According to EU officials, gas prices in Europe have increased by more than 170% since the start of the year.

Although most member states agree tax cuts, state aid and other measures put forward by the EU's executive arm to help households and businesses are beneficial to bring immediate relief, they diverge on the long-term approach.

A line has been drawn between the countries calling for a thorough and structural reform of the blocs energy market  among them France and Spain  and those who believe the crisis is only temporary and does not require radical market changes.
Ethiopia is the continents second-most populous country and the 12th-most populous in the world. It is a diverse federation of states divided largely by ethnicity  and, until recently, it was the glue holding together an unstable but consequential region.

To get a sense of how destructive this conflict could become, consider Syria. After 10 years, the civil war in Syria is only beginning to wind down to an unsatisfactory conclusion. What began with violent repression of anti-government protests in 2011 soon became a widespread proxy war fought by regional and global players. More than 500,000 people are dead or missing, with at least 116,000 documented civilian deaths. More than half of Syrias population have fled their homes.

The refugee crisis not only destabilized the region  with Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey bearing the brunt  but it also became a flashpoint in European Union politics, fueling destructive far-right nationalism across the continent.

Ethiopias population is 115 million  more than five times that of prewar Syria. The war was a violent escalation of a political conflict between the government and the Tigray Peoples Liberation Front, a well-armed political party representing a small ethnic minority in the Tigray region. The governments scorched-earth campaign began early.
This matter has taken its toll on his mental and physical health because of the level of incarceration, the motion stated. The 48-year-olds father died earlier this month, Rollins wrote.

The next hearing for Robertson and Fracker  who were both fired by the Rocky Mount Police Department days after photographs of them in the Capitol surfaced on social media  is Monday.

About 650 people from across the country have been charged so far with participating in the insurrection, which disrupted a session of Congress and forced lawmakers to flee as they met to certify an election that Trump lost to President Joe Biden.

More than 90 individuals have pleaded guilty, 13 to felony charges, according to a summary by prosecutors that was last updated Oct. 6. Of the 12 defendants sentenced so far, five have received periods of incarceration.

A Dallas man who pleaded guilty to posting threats on social media in connection with the riot was sentenced to 14 months in prison Oct. 21, which the Associated Press reported was the longest term to date resulting from the insurrection.

Robertson and Fracker are each charged with one felony offense of obstructing an official proceeding and several misdemeanors that allege illegal entry of the Capitol.
PULASKI  A former officer at the New River Valley Regional Jail is charged with trying to bring drugs to a prisoner.

Lilly Ann Caudill, 24, of Radford, was arrested Friday on counts of attempted delivery of methamphetamine, of marijuana, and of buprenorphine and naloxone, all to an inmate. Caudill was released on her own recognizance and is scheduled to appear Nov. 8 in Pulaski County Circuit Court to seek to have an attorney appointed to defend her against the three charges.

The prisoner identified as part of the drug investigation is Joseph Marcus Belton, 22, who also was charged this month with three counts of drug possession and one of bribery. He has a Circuit Court hearing set for Nov. 1, also to have an attorney appointed.

Jail Superintendent Greg Winston said Monday that charges against Caudill and Belton came after administrators were told the two were involved in an unprofessional, personal relationship at the jail, which is located in Dublin. There is no evidence that the relationship was sexual, Winston added.

Investigators learned that Caudill was planning to bring contraband to Belton, then interrupted the delivery and seized the drugs, Winston said.

Caudill was fired at that point, Winston said.
A Spanish company that makes turbine blades for offshore wind farms plans to operate a $200 million facility at Portsmouth Marine Terminal to build the turbine blades  the first facility of its kind in the country.

Officials including Gov. Ralph Northam and U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm joined Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy for an announcement in Portsmouth on Monday morning about the plan.

Siemens Gamesa will lease more than 80 acres at the Port of Virginias Portsmouth Marine Terminal to provide wind turbine blades for Virginia and other parts of North America, according to a news release from Northams office.

The project is anticipated to create 310 jobs  about 260 jobs when the new facility is fully operational and about 50 service jobs that Siemens Gamesa intends to create to provide operations and maintenance services for an offshore wind project that Dominion Energy is planning.

Richmond-based Dominion is in the midst of planning the largest offshore wind farm in the country off the coast of Virginia Beach, where the company already operates a test wind project of two turbines. Dominion hopes to complete that project by 2026.
Hes also an experienced special education teacher, though the way he came by that trade is a little off the beaten path.

Bell is a Roanoke native. His younger brother, Jordan Bell, a community activist and historian, has also been in the news, leading walking tours of the historic Gainsboro neighborhood, co-organizing the Juneteenth celebration in Eureka Park and speaking at rallies protesting police brutality.

Ryan attended Virginia Union University, a historically Black institution in Richmond, and moved to the Hampton Roads region afterward to be near his newly born first daughter. Yet he had trouble finding a job that suited. His father, Carlton Bell, the former principal of Hurt Park Elementary School, suggested he try something in education, so he followed that suggestion, landing a job as a special education teachers assistant in York County near Williamsburg.

He fell in love with the job, but couldnt get hired on as a full-fledged teacher without proper credentials. Friends teaching in Richmond invited him to bring his passion for special education there, and he took them up on it.
Susan Andersons service on Blacksburg Town Council has been exemplary.

She has worked with other council members to move the town forward with development that balances economic growth and quality of life.

Thanks in part to her work, we have a livelier downtown area that continues to improve. Many of these changes have helped to fill empty stores with new businesses and bring more options to downtown visitors.

The growth of our small town has been a point of friction for some in the community. Within the limits of what a town council in Virginia can do, she has made every effort to manage development in a way that keeps Blacksburg a great place to live.

As a member of the towns housing board, she is working actively to increase the amount of affordable housing available.

Never in a rush to judgment, she listens carefully to all points of view before coming to a decision.

Over the years, she has demonstrated a consistent concern for input from citizens about what matters to them which is important in maintaining the integrity and character of our neighborhoods.
In the era when people are busy reading about ransomware and cyber and crypto crime, old-fashioned money-laundering ends up being neglected, but its alive, and well.

In July, the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) accused an 86-year-old woman and her son of being part of a cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme. They made more than $12 million in the end.

Earlier this week, the same amount was seized by the Federal prosecutors in Detroit, Michigan, in a much more spectacular case: The money is allegedly part of a large cash laundering operation, working between the U.S. and Dubai, the United Arab Emirates.

According to the court filing, some of the laundered cash was used to purchase armored vehicles for a drug trafficking operation based mostly in Michigan.

The cash laundering operation, referred to as The Shadow Exchange, used fake invoices and different strategies to disguise the origins of cash distributed among banks. Dozens of wire transfers were made to that effect.

The Shadow Exchange provided services to persons seeking to transfer U.S. dollars in a manner calculated to avoid anti-money laundering measures of the financial system and the scrutiny of international law enforcement, the filing said.

The filing did not name any individuals involved in the scheme, within the U.S. or Dubai, and it is not clear whether any arrests have been made. However, the filling said that customers of the Shadow Exchange also included at least one international criminal organization.

Over the past 12 months, the coronavirus pandemic and related lockdowns have presented criminals with even greater opportunities to launder billions of dollars.

The pandemic has forced banks to move their customer interactions online, with criminals having exploited difficulties in verifying customer identities.

According to the Financial Action Task Force, the intergovernmental watchdog for financial crime, more than 60 million new bank accounts were opened online last year, but not every digital ID was reliable.

Last September, BuzzFeed News and the nonprofit International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) published classified U.S. government documents reporting that major banks processed $2 trillion in transactions since 2000 despite suspecting they were connected to illegal activity.

The leak, called FinCen files, revealed how some of the world's biggest banks have allowed criminals to move dirty money around the world. The cache of files of more than 2,500 mostly files banks sent to the US authorities between 2000 and 2017.

The ICIJ said the private filings with regulators show that some of the largest U.S. banks "kept profiting from powerful and dangerous players even after U.S. authorities fined these financial institutions for earlier failures to stem flows of dirty money.

Since the financial crisis, US banks have been fined $243 billion according to a list compiled in 2018 by Keefe, Bruyette and Woods. Since 2008, Bank of America has paid $76 billion in fines. JPMorgan Chase features second on the list, with nearly $44 billion in fines.

On the crypto side, global ransomware attacks soared in 2020, which saw a 62% increase in ransomware globally and 158% spike in North America over the previous year. The total amount paid, at least what was reported, was $350 million, a 311% increase over 2019. And the vast majority of ransom was paid in cryptocurrency.

Even though it is less than 1% of its transactions, bitcoin addresses with known criminal connections transferred at least $3.5 billion of the virtual currency in 2020.

Just last month, the SEC charged the founder of a major crypto lending platform with a $2-billion fraud. The SEC has charged BitConnect founder Satish Kumbhani, an Indian national, with fraud for lying about the exchanges ability to generate profits and violating registration laws meant to protect investors.
" " Smoke and flames rise from an illegally lit fire in the Amazon rainforest reserve, south of Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil, Aug. 15, 2020. CARL DE SOUZA/AFP via Getty Images

The Amazon has long done its part to balance the global carbon budget, but new evidence suggests the climate scales are tipping in the world's largest rainforest. Now, according to a study published July 14 in Nature, the Amazon is emitting more carbon than it captures.

This study is the first to use direct atmospheric measurements, across a wide geographic region, collected over nearly a decade that account for background concentrations of atmospheric gases.

These results have important implications for policy initiatives such as REDD+ that rely on forests to offset carbon emissions. Because different regions of the Amazon differ in their ability to absorb carbon, schemes that use one value for the carbon-capturing ability of the whole Amazon need to be reexamined, scientists say.

"The Amazon is a carbon source. No doubt," Luciana Gatti, a researcher at Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (INPE) and lead author of the study, says. "By now we can say that the budget for the Amazon is 0.3 billion tons of carbon per year [released] into the atmosphere. It's a horrible message."

Southeastern Amazonia, in particular, switched from being a carbon sink to a carbon source during the study period. Emissions were high in 2010 because of a dry El Nino year, Gatti says, and she expected to see emissions return to normal afterward. But this never happened. The reason: emissions from fires.

In the Amazon, forests are often cut during the wet season and burned during the dry season to make way for agribusiness, particularly cattle pasture. According to the study, fire emissions in the southeastern Amazon are three times larger than the net biome exchange (NBE), a measure of the forest's carbon uptake plus all emissions from decomposition and human sources such as burning fossil fuels.

Without emissions from fires, Gatti says, the Amazon would be a carbon sink. "In other words, the Amazon is a source because of biomass burning."

" " Aerial view of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon taken from a small aircraft used to measure carbon emissions. Image courtesy of Luciana Gatti

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The Study Method

Using a small aircraft, Gatti and colleges measured carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and other gases above four locations across the Brazilian Amazon. Between 2010 and 2018, they collected air samples seasonally from near the treetops up to 14,800 feet (4,500 meters) above sea level, creating nearly 600 vertical profiles of CO2 levels.

Their conclusion: Eastern Amazonia is emitting more carbon than western Amazonia, and southern Amazonia is a net carbon source.

Other studies have noted a decline in the carbon uptake of forests based on on-the-ground measurements. But this study is the first to use direct atmospheric measurements, across a wide geographic region, collected over nearly a decade, while accounting for background concentrations of atmospheric gases.

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Deforestation Rates and Fires

"Gatti et al were able to establish seasonal and regional differences in carbon balance and attribute them to drought, fire, deforestation and forest degradation," Scott Denning, a professor of atmospheric science at Colorado State University who was not involved in the study (but wrote about it for Nature News & Views), said in an email.

Deforestation rates have been higher under Brazil's current president, Jair Bolsonaro, than any past president and they show no sign of halting. In 2020, Brazil lost 390 acres (158 hectares) of forest per hour  an area half the size of New York City's Central Park  according to a report by MapBiomas, a network of NGOs, universities and tech firms that include Google.

In May of this year, forest clearing in the Brazilian Amazon increased 67 percent over May 2020, according to INPE's satellite-based deforestation tracking system, DETER. This puts deforestation in 2021 on pace with last year's rate.

"If you're thinking a tipping point [for] the Amazon [is when] it becomes a carbon source, this region is at a tipping point," Gatti says. "My question is, if we stop now with fires and deforestation and start the very important repair process for forests, could we reverse the picture? I don't know."

Decades of deforestation and fires in the Amazon coupled with the global climate crisis have caused the dry season to get longer and made megadroughts more common, contributing to a feedback loop that degrades forests. These degraded conditions mean trees are dying at a faster rate. As more plants and trees die, the Amazon's ability to absorb carbon from the atmosphere is declining.

"The Amazon is like a bubble ... if the trees are intact, it keeps moisture under the canopy in the forest," Ernesto Alvarado, a professor of wildland fire sciences at the University of Washington, told Mongabay last year. Deforestation, roads and fires can puncture this moisture bubble. "You open the canopy, right? It's like a bunch of holes in the bubble, and now the moisture is better escaping and the forest becomes drier."

" " Unprecedented deforestation and fires in the Amazon have caused the dry seasons to get longer and made megadroughts more common. Lucas Ninno/Getty Images

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The Amazon Is Diverse

The results of the Nature study have important implications for policy initiatives such as REDD+ that rely on forests to offset carbon emissions. The Amazon is not homogenous; different regions have different types of soil, humidity and tree species. And as this study shows, they also differ in their capacity to absorb or emit carbon.

For example, the eastern Amazon, mainly in the states of Para and Mato Grosso, is 30 percent deforested and emits 10 times more carbon than other regions. So schemes that use one value for the carbon-capturing ability of the whole Amazon, Gatti says, need to be reexamined.

"Forests might not be able to sequester enough carbon to provide a net benefit for climate mitigation," Ruth DeFries, a professor of sustainable development at Columbia University who was not involved in the study, told Mongabay in a 2020 interview. "[This] suggests that efforts to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases depend on alternatives to fossil fuel burning  the largest and well-quantified source of anthropogenic greenhouse gases."

"Worldwide, plants have been growing faster than they're dying for decades, providing a priceless emissions reduction," Denning said. "Now we're seeing the limits of that process. It means society will have to work harder to eliminate fossil fuels from the world economy since we won't be able to rely on tropical forests to clean up after ourselves."

This story originally appeared in Mongabay and is republished here as part of Covering Climate Now, a global journalism collaboration strengthening coverage of the climate story.
" " Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River in southern Africa can slow to a relative trickle when droughts come. ZINYANGE AUNTONY/AFP/Getty Images

Waterfalls are one of nature's most demonstrative wonders, sometimes plunging to vertical depths that create stunningly violent sprays. But what happens when there isn't enough water to fuel the fall?

Several world-renowned waterfalls around the globe have either dried up entirely or are functioning at a fraction of their previous power. This can negatively impact everything from local tourist trade to important ecological functions that benefit an area's flora and fauna.

"While some waterfalls are spring-born or spring-fed, the majority are reliant on precipitation," says Adam Sawyer, an outdoor photographer and guide based in the Pacific Northwest whose published guidebooks include "Hiking Waterfalls Oregon, Hiking Waterfalls Washington" and the forthcoming "Hiking Waterfalls Idaho." "With many regions seeing a reduction in snowpack and extreme or prolonged drought conditions, many waterfalls are reducing to little more than exaggerated trickles, or even drying up entirely."

Climate change is often fingered as a culprit, causing both damaging floods and prolonged droughts. It can take years to fully realize the deleterious effects of precipitation shortfalls, and by 2025, half the world's population is likely to live in a water-stressed area, according to the World Health Organization.

"Waterfalls are just another geological canary in the coal mine," Sawyer says. "Hopefully, we will find a way to correct the course sooner rather than later. In the meantime, there may never be a better time to get out and observe these natural wonders, in order to garner a deeper understanding and appreciation for them."

Here are six famous waterfalls that slowed to a trickle when drought set in.

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1. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe

" " Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site measuring 354 feet (108 meters) high and 0.62 miles (1 kilometer) wide, slows to a trickle when the Zambezi River runs low due to lack of rain. Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA-3.0)

Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River in southern Africa began to dry up in 2019. The 0.62-mile (1-kilometer) waterfall, which is more than twice as high and wide as Niagara Falls, typically has a flow of 3,569 feet (1,088 meters) per second, but it slowed to a trickle during the 2019 dry season, which, in that region of Africa, occurs from May to November.

Some experts point to more frequent droughts and rising water temperatures that, in 2019, caused 115,443 gallons (437,000 liters) of water to evaporate every second. The good news  for the tourism trade, local flora and fauna, and downstream dams that supply electricity to the area  is that the waterfall's near stoppage was probably temporary. Historical data from the Zambezi River Authority, which monitors the falls, reports that Victoria Falls are still not as low as they were in 1995 and 1996 when record drought conditions existed. As of fall 2021, Victoria Falls was flowing, but not fully, because of less-than-anticipated rainfall rates.

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2. Yosemite Falls, California

" " The tallest waterfall in Yosemite Valley, 2,425-foot (739-meter) Yosemite Falls appears nearly dry as drought worsens on July 16, 2021, in Yosemite National Park, California. David McNew/Getty Images

A haunting image from August 2007 shows a stone-dry surface where Yosemite Falls once fell 2,425 feet (739 meters) in a gravitational tumble toward the valley floor. Again in 2021, this famous waterfall in California's Yosemite National Park dried up. While nary a drop currently is flowing over its granite ledge, Yosemite Falls is expected to return to its previous glory  as long as winter rainfall totals hold.

The usual winter snowpack in the region was low in 2021, at less than half of normal, says Dylan Gallagher, who founded White Wolf Private Tours and frequently takes travelers on private hikes to Yosemite Falls. "Water was scarce in late summer 2021," Gallagher says, "and the waterfalls in Yosemite depend entirely on the previous winter's precipitation levels. Once winter passes, you will more or less know what the waterfalls will look like in late September."

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3. Igauzu Falls, Argentina/Brazil

" " Iguazu Falls seen from the Brazilian side on May 7, 2009, when it dried to a third of its usual volume. CHRISTIAN RIZZI/AFP/Getty Images

The world's largest waterfall, Igauzu Falls, is now a ghost of its former self. Located on the border of the Argentine province of Misiones and the Brazilian state of Parana, Igauzu Falls was formed after a prehistoric volcanic eruption. It spans 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) and includes 275 individual waterfalls. In the past, Igauzu Falls had water rushing over its ledge at 459,090 cubic feet (13,000 cubic meters) per second  the liquid equivalent of five Olympic-size swimming pools. By the spring of 2020, the waterfall's flow had waned to 10,170 cubic feet (288 cubic meters) per second, which edged out its previous low-water record in 2006.

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4. Thalehaha Falls, Rubio Canyon, California

" " Thalehaha Falls, one of several waterfalls in Rubio Canyon, is seen on April 7, 2021, in the San Gabriel Mountains near Altadena, California, as another year of drought enveloped the area. David McNew/Getty Images

Less than an hour from Los Angeles, Rubio Canyon has a series of waterfalls whose views reward the determined hiker willing to scramble over rough terrain. At an elevation of 2,371 feet (722 meters), Thalehaha Falls is Rubio Canyon's main attraction, besting several other waterfalls because of its own rugged beauty and its views of Los Angeles in the distance. Thalehaha Falls, which drops 80 feet (24 meters) to the canyon floor, was once a destination so inviting that in the late 1800s a Swiss-style railway, known as Mount Lowe Railway, was built to take viewers up the steep inclines. But the system didn't make money, eventually fell into disrepair and was abandoned. A similar fate befell a once-famous restaurant, pavilion, zoo and hotels built to house tourists drawn to Rubio Canyon. Several rock slides have now buried the lower portion of Thalehaha Falls, and some of its downstream waterfalls. Currently, Thalehaha Falls only flows for a short time after a deluge and remains dry most of the year.

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5. Le Saut du Doubs, Villers-Le-Lac, France/Switzerland

" " Le Saut du Doubs waterfall remained dry for several weeks during the summer of 2020 in Villers-le-Lac, eastern France. SEBASTIEN BOZON/AFP/Getty Images

The year 2020 was not a banner year for Le Saut du Doubs waterfall. Although prone to seasonal lows, the waterfall  the highest waterfall along the France-Switzerland border  dried up nearly three weeks earlier than normal. The transnational waterfall is located in a forested lakeside region that draws travelers from around the world, but in the summer of 2020, it completely dried up for several weeks because of an ongoing drought in the area. The same thing happened in 2018, when the falls also temporarily dried up.

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6. Tis Abay/Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia

" " Tis Abay/Blue Nile Falls on the Blue Nile river near Bahir Dar during the dry season in the Amhara Region, Ethiopia. Marica van der Meer/Universal Images Group/Getty Images

The famed Blue Nile Falls in Ethiopia are, as the name suggests, located at the head of the Blue Nile River  one of two tributaries that feed into the Nile River, which meanders through 11 countries to empty into the Mediterranean Sea. Also called Tis Abay, which means "great smoke" in Amharic, the 150-foot-high (45-meter-high) falls create a sizable mist and have become an Ethiopian tourist attraction. However, during the dry season that runs from January to March each year, the famous falls dry to a trickle  or stop running entirely  which makes August to October (usually the peak of the rainy season) an ideal time to see the falls at their most powerful. Unless, that is, water is diverted to power a hydroelectric dam that is fed by Blue Nile waters, and which is set to fuel political and environmental conflict between Ethiopia and downstream countries like Sudan and Egypt that rely on the Blue Nile.

HowStuffWorks may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article.

Now That's Interesting Precipitation is becoming more unpredictable. As of 2021, more than a fifth of the world's water basins have either flooded or dried up, including lakes, reservoirs, wetlands, floodplains and seasonal bodies of water, according to the United Nations.
" " Past crews have included female scientists, businesswomen, product designers, actresses, entrepreneurs, artists, teachers, sustainability professionals and more. Eleanor Church Lark Rise Pictures

If you pay attention to eco-news, you probably know that your single-use plastics are polluting everything, including the oceans. You might even know that the oceans contain massive patches of microplastics called gyres, that are notoriously difficult to clean up.

Well if you're a woman (sorry guys) with a keen interest in protecting the environment  particularly Earth's oceans  you also need to know about a group of citizen scientists trying to do something about all that plastic: eXXpedition. In fact, you can even join the female-focused adventure.

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What Is EXXpedition?

EXXpedition (the XX refers to the double-X chromosome pairs in women) is an all-female organization founded in 2014 by eco-entrepreneur Emily Penn. The idea was to create citizen science-based sailing voyages to examine the plastic and toxic pollution in the world's oceans.

So why no XYs (males)? In an email interview, Penn says the answer is twofold. "Women are underrepresented in sailing and science, which we are passionate to readdress by promoting positive female role models," she says.

The 'all women' charters lend an essential element to the character of their work. "There is something unique about taking a passionate group of women to sea," Penn says. "Boundaries are let down as we overcome challenges together. Bonds form fast and last for life."

Penn's own journey to tackle plastic pollution began 10 years ago when she left England for Australia, hitchhiking around the world on a 100 percent biofueled boat. "Shocked by finding plastic in some of the most remote places on our planet, I chose to live on a group of Pacific islands for six months to organize a community cleanup," she says. "I then traveled to California to learn more from some of the experts in the field of ocean plastic."

" " Emily Penn created the all-female-focused sailing voyages to examine the plastic and toxic pollution in the world's oceans. Eleanor Church Lark Rise Pictures

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Plastics Polluting Our Oceans

The oceans have become vast dumping grounds for the world's waste, with marine debris, including plastics and microplastics, posing one of the ecosystem's most persistent problems. Floating litter is found in every ocean all over the globe and is almost always made of plastic. Marine debris isn't just ugly, it also harms living creatures in the ocean and, eventually it makes its way into our bodies, too.

The U.N. Ocean Action Ambassador Peter Thomson estimates more than 8 million tons (7.2 million metric tons) of plastics leak into the ocean each year, some ending up in the fish we eat. These chemicals can disrupt the endocrine system, powerful hormones released during puberty and pregnancy.

As Penn learned more about the dangers of plastic pollution in the ocean, she wondered how she could raise awareness of the issue, "facilitating science at sea," she says, while promoting "outreach and the implementation of solutions on land." Enter eXXpedition.

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Citizen Science Researchers

Along with co-founder, Lucy Gilliam, Penn started eXXpedition in 2014 to organize all-women sailing voyages that engaged in citizen science.

"The scientific research conducted on board is reviewed in the run up to each new voyage," Penn says. In previous voyages they've collected microplastics, and logged large plastic items and wildlife sightings for global datasets. In 2018, they attached a tracker to a large mass of net so it could be tracked and later collected by a bigger boat.

Penn says crews are made up of multinational and multidisciplinary teams of women, and both sailing veterans and novices. In addition to scientists, crews have included businesswomen, product designers, actresses, entrepreneurs, artists, teachers, sustainability professionals and more. "Having this range of individuals on board encourages broader thinking about the variety of solutions to ocean plastic and collaboration across sectors," she says.

The first voyage set sail with a crew of 14 women in November 2014 across the Atlantic Ocean. Since then, more than 100 women have made 11 voyages. In addition to crossing the Atlantic, eXXpedition crews have sailed along the Norwegian coast; across the South Atlantic from Senegal to Brazil via Ascension Island; from Brazil to Guyana off the coast of South America; the Caribbean, twice; north of the Arctic Circle; the Great Lakes; Great Britain; and the North Pacific gyre.

" " The Round the World Voyage is the organization's most ambitious voyage yet, and will travel 38,000 nautical miles over two years. eXXpedition

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Round the World Voyage

"The logical next step was to scale up," Penn says. "That's why we are going Round the World."

It's the organization's most ambitious voyage yet, with 300 women from multiple disciplines sailing 30 voyages and 38,000 nautical miles over a two-year period  from October 2019 until September 2021.

Penn will lead the maiden voyage leg from the U.K. to the Azores, which sets sail on Oct. 8, 2019. "We are partnering with the University of Plymouth to develop a science program that will give us a clearer picture of the impact of plastics and toxics around the world," she says. "It's a unique opportunity to collect global data."

The crew of female citizen scientists will examine plastics and toxics in the ocean in four of the five oceanic gyres  major spirals of ocean-circling currents present both north and south of the Equator and the Arctic.

But don't get the idea eXXpedition voyages are glamorous getaways for pampered divas. For starters, all participants are expected to contribute a share of the cost of the voyage, anywhere from $5,866 (the leg from Port Douglas, Australia to Darwin, Australia) to $12,956 (the leg from Perth, Australia to Mauritius), plus the cost of getting to and from where the boat is located. Competition to become a member of the crew is fierce and crews work hard.

"Our voyages are definitely not holidays," Penn says. "All our crew members are expected to take part in every aspect of life on board, including sailing, cooking, cleaning, night watches, science on board and workshops. Of course, we laugh a lot too ... [and] see amazing wildlife and visit fantastic places."

Now That's Interesting Some single use plastics, such as foam food containers, contain the chemicals styrene and benzine, which are both toxic and cancer-causing (carcinogenic). When these and other plastic ocean pollution break down into microplastics, they are ingested by animals in the human food chain. Microplastics have already been discovered in table salt and in both tap and bottled water.
" " The pre-assembly gantry used to assemble vacuum chamber sectors inserted into the nuclear fusion machine "Tokamak" of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in Saint-Paul-les-Durance, France, on July 28, 2020. CLEMENT MAHOUDEAU/Getty Images

Back in 1925, British astrophysicist Arthur Eddington published a paper in which he theorized that stars such as the sun are powered by fusion reactions, in which hydrogen nuclei are combined to form helium. By the 1950s, scientists had begun to contemplate how that process might be used by humanity to generate abundant amounts of energy [source: Arnoux].

Since then, fusion's potential has continued to dazzle visionaries. A single gram of the hydrogen isotopes needed for a fusion reaction could generate as much energy as 11 tons (nearly 10 metric tons) of coal [source: Clynes]. And unlike a conventional nuclear reactor that utilizes a fission reaction, in which uranium atoms are split, a power plant with a fusion reactor wouldn't produce a lot of radioactive waste. (Its byproduct would be helium, an inert gas.) It also would be much safer, because fusion energy production wouldn't be based upon a chain reaction, so it couldn't go out of control and have a meltdown [source: IAEA].

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Even so, fusion energy has long remained an elusive vision for the future, in large part because it's complicated and difficult to artificially duplicate the furnaces that power stars on Earth, without expending more energy than the process generates. Extreme temperatures and pressures are needed to overcome the forces that normally repel hydrogen atoms, and instead get them to combine their nuclei [source: Valich].

That said, scientists have made significant progress in recent years toward making fusion an eventual reality. "Most of the key physics questions behind fusion have been answered," Thomas Overton wrote in a 2020 article in Power, an energy sector publication. In 2010, a consortium of nations that includes the U.S., China, the European Union, India, Russia, Japan and Korea began building ITER, a facility that is scheduled to be sufficiently complete to begin "first plasma" testing in 2025. If all goes well, ITER could be demonstrating the ability to generate 10 times as much energy as it requires by the mid-2030s. While ITER won't generate electricity, it could pave the way for future fusion plants that will [source: ITER].

In this article, we'll learn about nuclear fusion and see how the ITER reactor will work.
" " Hubble was recently retrained on NGC 6302, known as the Butterfly Nebula, to observe it across a more complete spectrum of light, helping researchers better understand the mechanics at work in its technicolor wings of gas. The star at its center is responsible for the nebula's appearance. In its death throes, it has cast off layers of gas periodically over the past couple thousand years. Space Telescope Science Institute/NASA, ESA, and J. Kastner (RIT)

The Hubble Space Telescope just celebrated its 30th year of revealing stunning scenes and mind-blowing photography from space. And NASA just released more images from Hubble of two young planetary nebulas, which are expanding shells of gas created by dying stars shedding their outer layers. The images provide new insight into the chaos stars can undergo at the end of their lives.

The multi-wavelength images, which were captured by Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3, have astronomers hypothesizing that the Butterfly Nebula (NGC 6302) and one resembling a colorful jewel bug (NGC 7027) are binary-star systems. And the images have allowed astronomers to see how both systerms are splitting themselves apart at a fast space  at least in space time.

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Joel Kastner of Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, led the study, in which researchers traced the nebulae's histories of shock waves. The findings have led them to suspect that two stars are  or were  circling each other at the center of each nebula, which accounts for the cinched appearance in the center. The recent changes in output could even be evidence of a star merging with its companion star.

"When I looked in the Hubble archive and realized no one had observed these nebulas with Hubble's Wide Field Camera 3 across its full wavelength range, I was floored," Kastner said in a press statement. "These new multi-wavelength Hubble observations provide the most comprehensive view to date of both of these spectacular nebulas. As I was downloading the resulting images, I felt like a kid in a candy store."

Astronomers theorize that a two-star nebula can form when a mass-losing star is one of two in a binary system, according to NASA. As they interact, they form a gas disk, which becomes the source of the outflowing material. In this case that would be the wings of the butterfly or the shape of the jewel bug.

" " NGC 7027s, aka the 'Jewel Bug' Nebula, was identified for the first time by Hubble in 1998. These new near-ultraviolet observations will help reveal how much dust obscures the star and how hot the star really is. Space Telescope Science Institute/NASA, ESA, and J. Kastner (RIT)

When the smaller star merges with the other, "jets of material" can flow out and wobble, which is what researchers think is happening with the Butterfly Nebula. The way iron emissions  gas blown out at high speed by a star and captured by the Hubble camera filter  show up along opposing, off-center directions, implies that the source is wobbling over time, "like a spinning top that's about to fall," Kastner explains. "That's another telltale sign of the presence of a disk, which directs the flow, and also a binary companion."

As for the "jewel bug," it had been "slowly puffing away its mass" for centuries in a regular spherical pattern until it recently produced a new cloverleaf pattern. Kastner said that something "went haywire" at the center. Based on its iron emission pattern, researchers think its red giant star swallowed its companion.

"The suspected companion stars in NGC 6302 and NGC 7027 haven't been directly detected because they are next to, or perhaps have already been swallowed by, larger red giant stars, a type of star that is hundreds to thousands of times brighter than the sun," said team member Bruce Balick of the University of Washington in Seattle in the press statement. "The hypothesis of merging stars seems the best and simplest explanation for the features seen in the most active and symmetric planetary nebulas. It's a powerful unifying concept, so far without rival."

Now That's Interesting Hubble left Earth April 24, 1990, and is expected to keep working through the 2020s thanks in part to its space shuttle servicing missions, which have allowed the telescope to be upgraded five times.
At the start of last year, People's Rights had just under 22,000 members nationally, according to an earlier report by IREHR and the Montana Human Right's Network. IREHR Research Director Chuck Tanner said the organization's political ideology centers on pre-Civil War interpretations of the U.S. Constitution and Christian nationalism.

What Peoples Rights does is spread really radical ideas about overturning civil rights in the United States, Tanner said last week. This is a broad-based, anti-Democratic and bigoted social movement.

In a phone interview late Friday afternoon, Bundy said People's Rights is more of a network than an organization, and claimed the network doesn't profess any ideology other than the principles spelled out at the start of the Declaration of Independence.

Its a network of individuals that are looking for a way to secure their liberty, but other than giving them tools of how to do that, each area is completely on their own to be able to do whatever they decide to communicate, even whatever they decide to do," Bundy said. "Theres very few restrictions that we have placed upon them.

According to the People's Rights website, the network seems akin to an emergency militia service, with members agreeing to help defend each other against government criminals.
In 2011, Dart's office exhumed the remains of eight victims, including Alexander, who had been buried without police knowing who they were. Dart called on anyone who had a male relative disappear in the Chicago area in the 1970s to submit DNA. That was the time when Gacy was luring young men and boys to his home to eventually kill them.

Within weeks, the sheriff's office announced that it had identified one set of remains as those of William Bundy, a 19-year-old construction worker. In 2017, it identified a second set as those of 16-year-old Jimmy Haakenson, who disappeared after he phoned his mother in Minnesota and told her that he was in Chicago.

The details of Alexander's life in Chicago are sketchy. Born in North Carolina, he moved to New York, where he was married, and then on to Chicago in 1975, where he was soon divorced.
Rixe en haute mer : Des agents du Port de Dakar accuses d'avoir tue 2 pecheurs

Alassane Toure et Issa Cisse ont perdu la vie par noyade au cours d'une rixe intervenue, en haute mer. dans la nuit du 11 au 12 avril 2017.



Apres plusieurs sommations, Abdou Lahat Gueye aurait heurte deliberement la pirogue des victimes qui pechaient illegalement dans la zone maritime du Port autonome de Dakar (PAD).



Poursuivi pour homicide volontaire, le capitaine du navire est revenu sur le film du drame, hier, lors de sa comparution devant la chambre criminelle de Dakar.



A l'en croire, rapporte le journal Rewmi Quotidien qui donne l'information, ils ont ete attaques par leurs protagonistes lors d'une patrouille en haute mer.



"Ils se sont mis a nous jeter des pierres. C'est dans ces circonstances que leur pirogue a percute notre navire avant de se renverser", s'est dedouane le quadragenaire domicilie a la Cite Sipres.



Vise pour complicite d'homicide volontaire, le chef d'equipe Samsidine Sane a nie avoir demande a son collegue de foncer sur l'embarcation des pecheurs qui etaient au nombre de 32.



"Quand ils ont declenche les hostilites, Abdou Lahat Gueye a mis le navire a l'arret. Il n'y a pas eu d'echanges de jets de pierres", a-t-il conteste.



Meme son de cloche pour Ababacar Ndoye, Malamine Tamba, Mamadou Coly, Ismaila Diouf, Alexis Francois Seck, inculpes pour non-assistance a personne en danger.



D'apres leurs dires, informent encore sources du journal dans sa livraison de ce mardi, ils ont alerte la vigie apres le chavirement de la pirogue a 4h du matin.



Toutefois, l'un des rescapes a soutenu que les accuses ont ete les premiers a leur lancer des pierres. Pis, ils se sont mis a les insulter avant l'arrivee des secours.



Le representant de la famille de feu Alassane Toure a reclame 50 millions FCFA, a titre de dedommagement. Selon la partie civile, le defunt qui est fils unique, etait un soutien de famille.



Pour la procureure, les faits sont largement etablis a l'encontre d'Abdou Lahat Gueye, qui a agi sous les ordres de Samsidine Sane.



Elle a demande a la chambre de les condamner a la reclusion criminelle. Pour le reste du groupe, la parquetiere a requis cinq ans de prison.



Les conseils de la defense ont plaide le renvoi des fins de la poursuite. Me Tidiane Diallo a estime que Malamine Tamba et ses acolytes etaient dans l'impossibilite absolue de secourir les victimes.



Cependant, les sept maitres de port qui ont comparu libres, connaitront leur sort le 8 novembre prochain.
 Judge Paul Friedman identifies drug defendant who should benefit from Clemency Project 2014 | Main | "Waiving the Criminal Justice System: An Empirical and Constitutional Analysis" 

April 29, 2014

First of two planned Oklahoma executions botched, though condemned dies of heart attack after getting execution drugs

As reported in this CNN article, an "Oklahoma inmate died Tuesday evening of an apparent heart attack after authorities botched the delivery of drugs and stopped his execution. Another execution scheduled for the same day was postponed." Yikes. Here are the details:

Convicted murderer Clayton Lockett was sedated and then given the second and third drugs in the protocol, Oklahoma Department of Corrections Director Robert Patton told reporters. "There was some concern at that time that the drugs were not having the effect, so the doctor observed the line and determined that the line had blown," he said. When asked what he meant by "blown," Patton said that Lockett's vein had "exploded." "I notified the attorney general's office, the governor's office of my intent to stop the execution and requested a stay for 14 days for the second execution scheduled this afternoon," said Patton, referring to the execution of Charles Warner. Lockett later suffered what appeared to be a heart attack and died, the director said. Gov. Mary Fallin issued an executive order granting a stay for Warner and ordered an investigation. Lockett remained unconscious after the drugs were administered and died in the execution chamber at 7:06 p.m., according to her office. "I have asked the Department of Corrections to conduct a full review of Oklahoma's execution procedures to determine what happened and why during this evening's execution of Clayton Derrell Lockett," Fallin said in a statement. "I have issued an executive order delaying the execution of Charles Frederick Warner for 14 days to allow for that review to be completed."... "Something went horribly awry," Warner's attorney told CNN late Tuesday. "Oklahoma cannot carry out further executions until there's transparency in this process," said Madeline Cohen.

Recent related posts:

UPDATE: As he does so well, Howard Bashman in posts at How Appealing here and here effectively collects lots of press reports on Oklahoma's execution struggles, which seems sure to be the biggest US death penalty story over the next few days and weeks (and months and years, perhaps).

April 29, 2014 at 10:24 PM | Permalink

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"Something went horribly awry," Warner's attorney told CNN late Tuesday. "Oklahoma cannot carry out further executions until there's transparency in this process," said Madeline Cohen.

Says who?

This looks like a problem with the veins. Gee, that's never happened before outside of the LI context.

What's really upsetting is that justice was not carried out for an 11 month old girl.

Bottom line--when you bury a 19 year old young woman alive, you run the risk of your own vein "exploding" and the pain the results therefrom.

I would have ordered the second execution to be conducted.

Posted by: federalist | Apr 29, 2014 10:31:21 PM

Amen Federalist. Not to mention the ONLY reason the Oklahoma Corrections people are even IN this position is that these people have been playing dirty--going after the market interests of the drug manufacturers. These two public defenders are screaming about a situation that THEIR friends created.

The Roberts Court has to step in and loosen up dramatically on what it means to administer "cruel and unusual punishment". Do we really need anesthesiologists hovering over these guys? Use the guillotine and just get these things over with at WAY less expense to the public. And, for that matter, stop browbeating in Federal court hardworking prison guys who are just trying to clean up scum. Can't we just streamline death cases and get them over with already so that finally there's some actual justice? Show some guts already.

Posted by: J.J. | Apr 29, 2014 10:53:33 PM

JJ, sarcasm isn't your strong suit.

Posted by: federalist | Apr 29, 2014 11:09:43 PM

Vein did not "explode." The needle pierced the other side of the vein. The fluid thus entered the surrounding tissue. That is the meaning of blowing a vein. The drug was picked up more slowly from surrounding tissue, rather going to the brain and heart directly i a minute. The execution drugs were absorbed more slowly, but eventually worked well.

From Yahoo:

swomedicineman answered 8 years ago

When starting an IV or drawing blood, blowing a vein means the blood leaks into the surrounding tissue making a bruise. Usually when this happens another vein must be used to prevent running the dye or fluid into the surrounding tissue as well (hematoma, elaborate word for a bruise.) Veins can also collapse due to the stress of the IV start. Either way another vein must be used.

Asker's rating & comment

5 out of 5

Thank you for you time Scott O, This answer sounds most reasonable and informative.

Posted by: Supremacy Claus | Apr 30, 2014 12:20:01 AM

The scandal of this incident should give pause to all those who advocate for the death penalty on the common grounds of "an eye for an eye" and "just punishment". Such arguments are emotional responses to tragedy and have little or nothing to do with the term "punishment". The essence of the meaning of punishment is that the receipient will both know the distain of society for his actions AND be able to respond to that practical expression with some form of remorse and rehabilitation. Even in those extreme cases where the latter is not possible (because of a mental condition) or even more rare, is resisted or rejected, world examples of penal treatments demonstrate that the state today is able to humanely manage very effectively those instances. The facts of Oklahoma's botched execution are not used as an excuse for abolitionists to point this out, for the facts speak for themselves - executions, whether botched or efficiently carried out, represent a behaviour that is profoundly inhuman. If that were not self-evident enough, reading the calous words of many of the most vociferous pro-dp advocates on the pages of this blog and elsewhere, expose the background of emotion and motivation of them. A close analysis of this would suggest they share the mental abboration that must inherently be present in those persons who commit murder, in the moment of that act. They are blinded to the enormity of the attrocity and to the consequences to their victim, to themselves and to everyone else associated to both. The law exists (put very simply) to both manage the processes by which we all, as individuals, are able to relate peacefully, rationally and fairly with each other in society, for the common good, and to ensure that a system and rationale exists to effectively but humanely manage the punishment of those who fail to adhere to the high expectations of society for compliance. Executions, by whatever method and by whatever degree of efficiency, are manifestly acts of unworthy "cruel and unusual punishment", and no amount of scrabbling to otherwise justify them from the words of the US Constitution or from the mouths of Supreme Court Justices or their would-be political equivalents, change that. The obscene incident of this latest botched execution merely brings home and emphasizes that message. Whatever the reality of the crime committed by Clayton Lockett, he is in our image, a fellow human being. RIP.

Posted by: peter | Apr 30, 2014 3:33:45 AM

Explain to me again why we're still dicking around with ad hoc lethal injection protocols, and not just going to the firing squad?

Posted by: Res ipsa | Apr 30, 2014 9:43:36 AM

I think people [these are people who think the death penalty is acceptable] find firing squads distasteful and lethal injection seems to many a more humane "medical" version of execution that doesn't include what people see as toss backs to past ages of people shooting people dead. It also adds another level of distance from those doing the execution. Finally, bringing a new means of execution after years of precedent is a complicated affair.

Firing squads were not used in most places even before lethal injection began to be the chosen usage in the 1970s/1980s. The original favored choice was hanging, which would provide you with one executioner though the firing squad was used in certain contexts (the military / Mormons for religious reasons).

Lethal injection critics have noted its 'value' over other means -- again if we accept the death penalty -- leaves something to be desired. But, there are reasons why it is chosen. One means a few bring up as a solution is asphyxiant gas (over the current type used) though "gas" has a negative connotation generally. Also, I simply don't know, there might be other reasons why that sort of gas was not used when gas chambers were still used for executions.

Posted by: Joe | Apr 30, 2014 11:26:05 AM

Peter: The odds are 10:1, your death will be 100 times more painful, prolonged, humiliating, filled with indescribable agonies, desperation. The odds are 100% that the victim of your boy suffered far more than he did. Not a word about the victim from the supercilious abolitionist side. These hypocrites are morally reprehensible.

The lawyer is not even protecting this vicious predator out of any kind of humanity. The lawyer is generating massive appellate fees, with that Mafia racket going in the $billions. The ACLU is the spearhead of lawyer rent seeking.

I would strongly support water boarding these vicious predators full time waiting for their date, to solve all their cases, the dozens each has slaughtered.

Victim family members may keep pro-criminal judge and legislators at bay via the lash. As these lawyers show no mercy toward victims, so no mercy should be shown them.

One has to wonder if you or a close loved one works in government. All abolitionist arguments are in bad faith, and hide thinly veiled plunder of the taxpayer.

Posted by: Supremacy Claus | May 2, 2014 12:29:36 AM

"A close analysis of this would suggest they share the mental abboration

that must inherently be present in those persons who commit murder, in the moment of that act."

---- 'Out of the mouths of moral apes' ----

Peter has provided tragic, banal, foul yet frank

moral RELATIVISM writ large.

I am tempted to suggest that rather than a mere chump,

Peter "share(s) the mental abboration [sic]" of those

whom he labours to protect.

However, Peter, whilst still you live I shall

instead ask you to reconsider your twisted

fantasy. We are no more daemons than are you.

Avoid Obama doctrine and teaching, e.g.

Were gonna punish our enemies and were gonna reward our friends

Posted by: Adamakis | May 2, 2014 9:13:30 PM

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October 26, 2021

Two states restarting their death machinery with Fall 2021 lethal injections scheduled for long-dormant execution chambers

In this post last month, I noted that the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals had set execution dates for seven persons. Long-time readers may recall that Oklahoma last decade had two problematic executions, of Clayton Lockett in 2014 and Charles Warner in 2015, and the state has not had an execution for nearly seven years. A new Oklahoman piece provides details and background regarding the Sooner machinery of death getting restarted under the headline "What we know about Oklahoma resuming executions for the first time since 2015":

Starting Thursday, the state of Oklahoma has scheduled seven execution dates for inmates on death row. It would be the state's first execution in more than six years. In 1977, Oklahoma was the first state to adopt lethal injection, through which an inmate is injected with a fatal mixture of drugs as its primary method for carrying out executions.... The case of Julius Jones has attracted nationwide interest in recent years. No legal defense has disputed the guilt of the other six inmates, but Jones has long maintained his innocence.... The last time Oklahoma executed a death row inmate was Charles Warner in January 2015. Warner and Clayton Lockett, executed in 2014, both died by what were widely criticized as "botched" lethal injections, in which the inmates were not administered the correct mixture of drugs to bring about a quick and humane death. After Warner's execution, investigators discovered Warner had not been administered the proper drugs. The state's supplier of lethal injection drugs had replaced the heart-stopping drug potassium chloride with potassium acetate, the wrong chemical. Upon this discovery, the state halted all scheduled lethal injections, including that of death row inmate Richard Glossip, who received a stay of his execution from then-Gov. Mary Fallin hours before he was scheduled to die. The controversy worked its way to the U.S. Supreme Court after Glossip and 20 other death row inmates sued in federal court, arguing against the constitutionality of the sedative midazolam. A divided Supreme Court ruled that the state's drug mixture for lethal injections did not violate the "cruel and unusual punishment" amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Glossip, who also has long maintained his innocence for the murder that placed him on death row, has exhausted his appeals but has gained support from bipartisan lawmakers for an independent reinvestigation into his case.... Since the hiatus in 2015, Oklahoma has explored alternative methods of administering the death penalty. Fallin signed legislation allowing nitrogen gas to be used, if lethal injection is rendered unfeasible. After struggling for years to design a proper device and protocol for the use of nitrogen gas, Oklahoma abandoned the idea in 2020 and reverted back to lethal injection, once another supplier for the drugs had been reportedly secured. Oklahoma is one of only three states (the others being Mississippi and Utah) that allow for firing squads to be used as an alternative method, although this has not been done in the state for any of its executions since 1915.

Notably, recent news stories report now on another state gearing up to restarted its execution chamber after nearly a decade. From the AP, "Mississippi prepares for first execution since 2012, corrections commissioner says":

Mississippi prison employees will conduct once-a-week rehearsals as the state prepares for its first execution since 2012, Corrections Commissioner Burl Cain says. Cain told The Associated Press on Friday that the rehearsals for a lethal injection are usually done once a month at the Mississippi State Penitentiary at Parchman, following a protocol that's about 20 pages long. The Mississippi Supreme on Thursday set a Nov. 17 execution date for David Neal Cox, who pleaded guilty in 2012 to killing his wife, Kim, in 2010 in the northern Mississippi town of Shannon. Cox withdrew his appeals and once filed court papers calling himself "worthy of death. Mississippi has not had an execution since 2012, and it had six that year. Cain confirmed Mississippi has obtained lethal injection drugs, but he declined to say how. Im not supposed to talk about the drugs too much, Cain said. Mississippi is still facing a lawsuit filed in 2015 by the Roderick & Solange MacArthur Justice Center on behalf of two inmates. The suit argues Mississippis lethal injection protocol is inhumane.

October 26, 2021 at 12:12 PM | Permalink

Comments

First up in Oklahoma, later this week, to quote one article covering the execution ...

"In a 3 to 2 vote, the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board recommended upholding the death penalty for John Marion Grant."

The Mississippi case sounds like a "volunteer" situation, where the person involved turns down further appeals.

Looking at the details, he is not exactly a prime candidate for those against the death penalty, so it's ideal for the state generally to pick him. If the challengers are correct on the illegitimacy of the lethal injection protocol, that still holds even if the person executed is particularly horrible.

Noting there might be other problems with his potential execution -- a deep dive I made a year or two ago generally found there was in most cases -- there is the overall injustice of the death penalty as a whole. There are various very horrible people in this country and abroad & executing them is not seen as appropriate punishment in most cases.

Execution as a whole is wrong, even if the solitary example in various cases appears less troubling than what is done to various other people. And, yes, the ending of a life continues to be treated with a special degree of care, especially for those who believe nothing comes afterwards. Murder and execution included.

Posted by: Joe | Oct 26, 2021 12:56:19 PM

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This new release discusses the interesting (but not all that surprisng) results from an Axios/Ipsos poll conducted last week with a series of questions about perceptions of violent crime. Here are some of the details:

A new Axios-Ipsos poll finds that Americans concern about crime is high, but for most it is a more abstract than immediate concern. For instance, three-quarters of Americans say they feel mostly or very safe when out in their communities, and among that one-quarter who report feeling less safe, only half cite crime as a major reason why (or about one in eight Americans). However, a majority of Americans feel violent crime is on the rise since last year  which is broadly accurate  but also feel it is higher than observed 30 years ago  which is incorrect. Potentially because concerns about crime are more abstract for most people, opinions about what to do about crime tend to fall along lines of national politics. Democrats broadly support gun control and investment in social services while Republicans support a more armed populace and more spending on police....

There is some consensus on what steps could reduce gun violence and violent crime in the U.S. Just over six in ten (61%) Americans believe tighter gun laws would have an impact.

A large majority believe increased funding to police (70%) would curb gun violence and violent crime, while nearly as many (63%) also believe diverting police budget to community policing and social services would do this.

Over two thirds (68%) believe increased funding to social safety net programs would have an impact on combatting violent crime.

However, partisanship is central to what and who Americans believe is the cause of increased violent crime and which solutions would be most impactful. Majorities of Republicans say Democrats in Congress (59%), reduced police funding (58%), and President Joe Biden (54%) are most responsible for increases in violent crime. Meanwhile, majorities of Democrats blame loose gun laws (54%) and rising gun sales (52%).

When it comes to solutions, a majority of Republicans believe increased police funding (59%) would have a major impact on reducing violent crime compared to roughly a third of Democrats (31%). Conversely, a majority of Democrats (63%) think tighter gun control regulations and increased funding to social programs that combat poverty (54%) would have a major impact on reducing violent crime  compared to 16% and 18% of Republicans, respectively.
* S.Korea's 2021 trade volume hits $1 trln * Malaysia stocks dragged by glove makers * Chinese property sector weighs on local stocks By Indranil Sarkar Oct 26 (Reuters) - South Korean shares led gains among Asia's emerging stock markets on Tuesday as a strong start to the earnings season boosted chipmakers, but investor mood was sombre amid property troubles and rising COVID-19 cases in China. Stocks in Indonesia, India Thailand, Singapore and Philippines were up between 0.2% and 0.9%. China stepped up curbs in Beijing after reporting an increase in COVID-19 cases from a Delta variant outbreak, with health officials fearing that infections in the world's most populated country were likely to spread further. Shanghai stocks tripped 0.3% and the yuan traded flat. "There have been questions about when China might lift its zero-case COVID strategy," said Alvin Tan, RBC Capital Markets' head of Asia FX Strategy, adding that the country was unlikely to shift to a more open policy before the Winter Olympics scheduled for February next year. More movement restrictions could hurt its trade with Asian countries as China is the region's top trade partner, adding to woes stemming from a liquidity crisis at the country's high-yield real estate sector that could have a global impact. South Korea's KOSPI jumped 0.9% to a near one-month high as high-profile chipmakers reported earnings and customs data showed trade volume for the year had reached $1 trillion. The won firmed 0.1% even as growth in the third quarter slowed for Asia's fourth-largest economy, with robust exports offset by weak domestic demand and construction and facility investments. However, analysts were sure the Bank of Korea would go ahead and raise interest rates at its policy meeting next month. Malaysian stocks fell 0.2%, dragged by the world's biggest latex glove maker Top Glove and peer Hartalega Holdings. Top Glove and Hartalega fell 1.5% and 4.5%, respectively, after Supermax Corp warned of a hit from a U.S. import ban. Supermax, which is not part of the benchmark stock index, slid 1.6%. Its gloves were banned by the United States last week over alleged forced labour practices, the fourth Malaysian firm to face such a ban in the past 15 months. Other Asian currencies were mixed against a steady dollar, with the Malaysian ringgit and Taiwan's dollar firming up to 0.2% each, while the Philippine peso slipped. HIGHLIGHTS ** Indonesian 10-year benchmark yields are down 0.5 basis points at 6.164% ** Malaysia's 10-year benchmark yield is down 1.3 basis points at 3.608% ** Singapore shares weighed down by conglomerate Keppel Corp over a unit facing a lawsuit of about $819 million in the United States Asia stock indexes and currencies at 0716 GMT COUNTRY FX FX FX INDEX STOCKS STOCKS RIC YTD DAILY YTD DAILY % % % % Japan -0.23 -9.41 1.77 6.06 China India Indonesia +0.04 -0.78 0.60 11.48 Malaysia +0.06 -3.06 -0.15 -2.56 Philippines -0.03 -5.46 0.56 1.57 S.Korea Singapore -0.02 -1.95 0.10 12.70 Taiwan Thailand (Reporting by Indranil Sarkar in Bengaluru; Editing by Subhranshu Sahu)
WASHINGTON (AP)  Half its original size, President Joe Biden's big domestic policy plan is being pulled apart and reconfigured as Democrats edge closer to satisfying their most reluctant colleagues and finishing what's now about a $1.75 trillion package.

How to pay for it all remained deeply in flux Tuesday, with a proposed billionaires tax running into criticism as cumbersome or worse. Thats forcing difficult reductions, if not the outright elimination, of policy priorities  from paid family leave to child care to dental, vision and hearing aid benefits for seniors.

The once hefty climate change strategies are losing some punch, too, focusing away from punitive measures on polluters in a shift toward instead rewarding clean energy incentives.

Pressure mounting, Biden met Tuesday evening with two holdout Democrats  Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, according to a person who requested anonymity to discuss the private meeting. The president is pushing for an agreement before he departs for global summits later this week.

All told, Bidens package remains a substantial undertaking  and could still top $2 trillion in perhaps the largest effort of its kind from Congress in decades. But its far slimmer than the president and his party first envisioned.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told lawmakers they were on the verge of something major, transformative, historic and bigger than anything else ever attempted in Congress, according to another person who requested anonymity to share her private remarks to the caucus.

We know that we are close, said Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, after a meeting with Biden at the White House. And let me be explicitly clear: Our footprints and fingerprints are on this.

However, vast differences among Democrats remain over basic contours of the sweeping proposal and the tax revenue to pay for it.

From the White House, press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden still hoped to have a deal in hand to show foreign leaders the U.S. government was performing effectively on climate change and other major issues. But she acknowledged that might not happen, forcing him to keep working on the package from afar.

She warned about failure as opposed to compromise

The alternative to what is being negotiated is not the original package, she said. "It is nothing.

More lawmakers journeyed to the White House for negotiations on Tuesday and emerged upbeat that the end product would be substantial, despite the changes and reductions being forced on them by Manchin and Sinema.

Together the two senators have packed a one-two punch  Manchin forcing supporters to pare back health care, child care and other spending and Sinema causing Democrats to reconsider their plans to reverse the Trump-era tax cuts on corporations and the wealthy.

Resolving the revenue side is key as Biden insists all the new spending will be fully paid for and not piled onto the national debt. He vows any new taxes will hit only the wealthy, those earning more than $400,000 a year, or $450,000 for couples, and corporations he says must quit skipping out on taxes and start paying their fair share.

But the White House had to rethink its tax strategy after Sinema objected to her party's initial proposal to raise tax rates on corporations and the wealthy, With a 50-50 Senate, Biden has no votes to spare in his party.

Instead, to win over Sinema and others, the Democrats were poised to unveil a new plan for taxing the assets of billionaires. And on Tuesday they unveiled a proposal to require corporations with more than $1 billion in income to pay a 15% minimum tax, winning Sinema's backing.

Heres the heart of it: Americans read over the last few months that billionaires were paying little or no taxes for years on end, said Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, helming the effort.

Under Wydens emerging plan, the billionaires tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people. It would require those with assets of more than $1 billion, or three-years consecutive income of $100 million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

A similar billionaires tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires tax rate had not been set, but it was expected to be at least the 20% capital gains rate. Democrats have said it could raise $200 billion in revenue that could help fund Bidens package over 10 years.

Republicans deride the billionaires' tax and some have suggested it would face a legal challenge.

And key fellow Democrats were also raising concerns about the billionaires' tax, saying the idea of simply undoing the 2017 tax cuts by hiking top rates was more straightforward and transparent.

Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., the chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, said, Our plan looks better every day.

Under the bill approved by Neal's panel, the top individual income tax rate would rise from 37% to 39.6%, on those earning more than $400,000, or $450,000 for couples. The corporate rate would increase from 21% to 26.5%. The bill also proposes a 3% surtax on the wealthiest Americans with adjusted income beyond $5 million a year.

Less concerned about the new taxes, Manchin is forcing his party to reconsider the expansion of health, child care and climate change programs he views as costly or unnecessary government entitlements.

Still being debated: plans to expand Medicare coverage with dental, vision and hearing aid benefits for seniors; child care assistance; free pre-kindergarten; a new program of four-weeks paid family leave, and a more limited plan than envisioned to lower prescription drug costs.

On climate change, coal-state Sen. Manchin rejected Biden's earlier clean energy strategy as too punitive on providers that rely on fossil fuels. Instead, the White House floated an idea to beef up grants and loans to incentive clean energy sources.

Manchins resistance may scuttle one other tax idea  a plan to give the IRS more resources to go after tax scofflaws. He said he told Biden during their weekend meeting at the president's home in Delaware that that plan was messed up and would allow the government to monitor bank accounts.

Democrats are hoping to reach an agreement by week's end, paving the way for a House vote on a related $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill before routine transportation funds expire Sunday. That separate roads-and-bridges bill stalled when progressive lawmakers refused to support it until deliberations on the broader Biden bill were complete.



Associated Press writers Farnoush Amiri, Darlene Superville and Colleen Long contributed to this report.



This story has been corrected to show Rep. Richard Neal is from Massachusetts, not New Jersey.

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

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SIOUX CITY -- In past years, crowds packed U.S. Army Corps of Engineers annual fall meetings, voicing their displeasure about flood management on the Missouri River.

With drought conditions persisting for much of 2021 throughout the river's upper basin, Tuesday's meeting at the Betty Strong Encounter Center in Sioux City was tame compared to past sessions. A sparse crowd asked a total of five questions, none pertaining to flood control.

Though flooding wasn't much of a concern this year, the corps faces other potential problems if dry conditions continue into 2022 and force reduced water releases from the river's six reservoirs.

"Drought conditions create a set of circumstances different from what we experienced in 2019," said Col. Geoff Van Epps, commander of the corps' Northwestern Division, which includes the Missouri River basin. "Under drought conditions, we see challenges of not having enough water."

Flooding from earlier in the year was still fresh in the minds of many who attended the corps' last in-person meeting updating the public on river operations in 2019. The COVID pandemic wiped out in-person meetings in 2020 and this spring.

"A lot has changed in the two years since (the fall 2019 meeting)," Van Epps said.

In 2019, runoff into the basin above Sioux City was 60.9 million acre-feet, the second-highest total since record keeping began in 1898, and flooding caused hundreds of millions of dollars in damages.

This year's runoff forecast sits at 14.8 MAF, 57% of the average of 25.8 MAF, and on pace to be the 10th lowest in recorded history. The corps on July 1 enacted water conservation measures, dropping releases from Gavins Point Dam near Yankton, South Dakota, and reducing flow support to downstream navigation. The corps previously announced that winter releases from Gavins Point would be at the minimum level of 12,000 cubic feet per second.

Navigation likely will be affected from the start in 2022 if dry conditions continue. Runoff that's average or below will mean minimal flow support for navigation, said Mike Swenson, team leader of the corps' Power Production Division. Ongoing drought would likely lead to lower river and reservoir levels, affecting intakes that withdraw water for irrigation and municipal and industrial use. Lower water levels also could leave boat docks and marinas high and dry.

Rather than figuring out how to push flood waters through the system with minimal downstream flooding, Van Epps said, the corps will seek the best way to keep water flows high enough to maintain vital operations.

"It's a delicate balancing act, and we'll have to make sure we're monitoring conditions carefully," Van Epps said.

If there's any silver lining to the drought, there will be extra room in the system to hold runoff from next year's snow melt and spring rains. System storage on Sunday stood at 49.9 MAF, more than 6 MAF below the system's flood control storage zone, which begins at 56.1 MAF and extends to 67.7 MAF.

National Weather Service data presented Tuesday showed current climate signals are too weak to predict if precipitation in most of the basin will be above or below average this winter. The Weather Service this month declared that a La Nina pattern in the Pacific Ocean will be present this winter, and that typically means above-normal snowpack in the mountains of Wyoming and Montana. Though it's no guarantee, the higher snow totals would lead to more runoff in the spring that could fill Missouri River reservoirs.

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MACY, Neb. -- The Omaha Tribe of Nebraska said Tuesday it will start providing as much as $20,000 per household in housing assistance for tribal members who live on the reservation in Northeast Nebraska.

The tribe also announced it has purchased a combination grocery store, gas station and restaurant in Walthill.

About $1 million has been budgeted for the tribe's new Homeowner Assistance Fund Plan. In the first phase, eligible households would receive up to $2,000 in assistance to pay utility bills. In later phases, residents could qualify for up to $6,000 for mortgage assistance, up to $3,000 for delinquent property taxes, and, eventually, as much as $10,000 in home-improvement assistance.

The direct assistance would be financed with the tribe's share of $41 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. The COVID-relief package passed by Congress in March also will finance the tribe's purchase of the Walthill grocery store, Heritage Foodtown. The purchase price was not disclosed at a news conference Tuesday in Macy.

Melissa Henscheid, housing director with the Omaha Tribe, said the tribe has been working on the new housing assistance program for months. The first phase, the utility assistance, is expected to begin in a week or so, while the subsequent phases will start at a later date.

Henscheid said at least 180 families living on the reservation should benefit from the assistance, though she acknowledged that figure is a "guesstimate."

The pandemic deepened the reservation's need for housing assistance, she said, particularly mortgage assistance. Meanwhile, utility bill assistance is probably going to be in high demand this winter, as prices for natural gas and other fuels are forecast to spike.

"I think our major part right now is going to be, like, furnaces and keeping people warm for the winter," Henscheid said.

The tribe has just shy of 7,000 members, of which between 2,000 and 3,000 live within the boundaries of the reservation, which lies mostly in Thurston County.

Mike Grant, planning director with the Omaha Tribe, said the now-tribal-owned grocery store in Walthill will help to address both the availability of fresh foods on the reservation, and will provide local jobs and spur economic development. The store will close temporarily Thursday night and is set to re-open next week under tribal ownership.

Grant said the tribe is looking at building a second grocery store in Macy, where the tribal offices are located.

"What we want to do is, we want to start our own brand of grocery stores, and have that be a part of our economic development, he said.

The roughly 7,500-square-foot store in Walthill will be managed by Sinai Bass. It's vital for reservation residents, Bass said, to have a grocery store that offers fresh vegetables, fruits, meats and dairy that's close to home.

"A lot of the community members don't have vehicles to go off the reservation to get food," Bass said.

Grant said the tribe also plans to address a housing shortage on the reservation by purchasing surplus properties in Thurston County, where they will build houses. Within a year or so, he expects 10 or 12 new houses will be constructed.

"You're looking at, three to five generations living under one roof in some homes," he said, referring to the shortage of housing on the reservation.

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DAVENPORT, Iowa -- Members of UAW Local 281 have been complying with a judge's temporary injunction related to picketing at Deere's Davenport Works, union leadership is assuring the court.

Martlita Greve, chief judge of the district court in Scott County, last week issued a temporary injunction that was sought by Deere & Co.

The order directs striking UAW members to limit to four the number of picketers near gates at Davenport Works, among other restrictions.

The order came in response to evidence presented by Deere that some picketers were harassing and/or intimidating some who enter Deere's property during the strike and were disrupting business operations.

But the order went further, barring picketers from using burn barrels and chairs on the picket lines. Some labor experts have said the restrictions are unusual.

The Des Moines-based attorneys representing the UAW are expected to respond to details of the order later today.

Meanwhile, the president and the chairman for Local 281 submitted affidavits to the court, assuring Greve their members are complying with her order.

"The union has provided each of our officers, representative agents, members and picketers with a copy of the order, along with a clear written directive that they refrain from engaging in and of the misconduct enjoined in the order as well as advising them of the consequences for violating the order," according to affidavits signed by 281 President Travis Hanrahan and Chairman Michael "Gus" Mansker.

The pair also told Greve in their filing, "We have designated responsible persons to act as picket captain to control the conduct of pickets."

They have limited gate-picket presence to four people and have removed fire barrels and chairs from picket-line areas.

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BOISE, Idaho (AP)  The founder of a far-right anti-government group says a report estimating the organizations fast growth over the past year undercounted by half. Ammon Bundy took issue with the Institute for Research and Education on Human Rights report, saying Peoples Rights is actually much larger and more of a network than an official organization.

The report, released last week, found that the organization has grown by roughly 53% in the past year to more than 33,000 members, rapidly expanding nationwide and making inroads into Canada.

The IREHR report is drastically inaccurate. Not sure where they pulled their info from, Bundy wrote in an email on Saturday. People's Rights now had 62,337 members as of Saturday, he said.

Im glad they under reported so the FBI does not think we are too much of a threat to democracy, Bundy wrote. If we keep growing the way we are the FBI may get jealous and throw me in jail for no reason again.

Bundy  who started Peoples Rights amid a wave of backlash against public health measures taken at the start of the coronavirus pandemic  is best known for leading a group of armed activists in the occupation of an Oregon wildlife refuge in 2016. But Bundy was acquitted of all federal charges in that case by an Oregon jury. In 2014, Bundy, several brothers and his father led an armed standoff in Nevada with Bureau of Land Management agents who attempted to confiscate his fathers cattle for grazing on public land without a permit. The Nevada criminal case against Bundy ended in a mistrial, but he spent nearly two years behind bars awaiting the resolution of the two court cases.

At the start of last year, People's Rights had just under 22,000 members nationally, according to an earlier report by IREHR and the Montana Human Right's Network. IREHR Research Director Chuck Tanner said the organization's political ideology centers on pre-Civil War interpretations of the U.S. Constitution and Christian nationalism.

What Peoples Rights does is spread really radical ideas about overturning civil rights in the United States, Tanner said last week. This is a broad-based, anti-Democratic and bigoted social movement.

In a phone interview late Friday afternoon, Bundy said People's Rights is more of a network than an organization, and claimed the network doesn't profess any ideology other than the principles spelled out at the start of the Declaration of Independence.

Its a network of individuals that are looking for a way to secure their liberty, but other than giving them tools of how to do that, each area is completely on their own to be able to do whatever they decide to communicate, even whatever they decide to do," Bundy said. "Theres very few restrictions that we have placed upon them.

According to the People's Rights website, the network seems akin to an emergency militia service, with members agreeing to help defend each other against government criminals.

Who would you call right now if you needed help defending your rights against a government agency? the website asks readers. It goes on to suggest that things such as vaccination mandates and child protection investigations might be reasons that the network would be activated in a call to action.

The network is divided into regions, where leaders sometimes hold training sessions on HAM radios, firearms or emergency first aid. At times members in certain regions are asked to attend protests or take other actions to defend your rights. Much of the networks' activity in the past year has been focused on opposing public health measures taken to slow the spread of COVID-19. In Idaho, People's Rights members have used the network to spread misinformation about coronavirus, advised each other on how to obtain medications that aren't approved for treating COVID-19, and staged protests outside of government officials' homes.

Bundy said the group isn't anti-government, though he acknowledged that he and other members were ready to take action against the government if needed.

If it's government trying to take the rights, we will have to unite against them, he said. It happens. We don't need to get all emotional about it. We just need to appear and unite together so we can all get through it.

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PHOENIX (AP)  Activists protested outside a wedding where U.S. Sen. Kyrsten Sinema was officiating over the weekend, the latest confrontation between demonstrators and the Arizona Democrat who opposes key parts of President Joe Biden's social services and climate change package.

A video posted to YouTube shows the bride's mother tearfully pleading with protesters not to disrupt her daughter's wedding, which was held at an outdoor venue separated by a wall from a public street in Bisbee, Arizona. Several demonstrators yell at the mother until one peacemaker suggests they walk quietly with their signs so the wedding can begin.

At one point, the bride says, thanks for ruining my wedding, I really appreciate it."

Among the costumed guests at the wedding were people wearing Native American costumes with a headdress and face paint.

While the Senator knows the bride and groom, she does not know and did not interact with the wedding guests who wore disrespectful and racist costumes to the ceremony, and she strongly condemns such behavior," Sinema spokeswoman Hannah Hurley said in an email to the Arizona Daily Star.

Sinema has faced mounting pressure from Democratic activists over her refusal to eliminate the filibuster and her work to scale back a spending package that started at $3.5 trillion. She is often confronted in airports. Earlier this month, protesters followed Sinema into a bathroom at Arizona State University.

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

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SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California has given away at least $20 billion to criminals in the form of fraudulent unemployment benefits, state officials said Monday, confirming a number smaller than originally feared but one that still accounts for more than 11% of all benefits paid since the start of the pandemic.

State officials blamed nearly all of that fraud on a hastily approved expansion of unemployment benefits by Congress that let people who were self-employed get weekly checks from the government with few safeguards to stop people from getting benefits who were not eligible to receive them.

I don't think people have captured in their mind the enormity of the amount of money has been issued errantly to undeserving people, said Assemblyman Tom Lackey, a Republican from Palmdale, who brought along an illustration of 29 dump trucks filled to the brim with $100 bills representing just over half of that money lost to fraud.

The pandemic ushered in widespread fraud at unemployment agencies across the country, with at least $87 billion in fraudulent payments approved by states, according to a June report from the inspector general's office at the U.S. Department of Labor. In Arizona alone, state officials said scammers pocketed nearly 30% of all its unemployment benefit payments.

In California, the fraud was so widespread that state officials OK'd at least $810 million in benefits in the names of people who were in prison, including dozens of infamous killers on death row. State officials even sent $21,000 in benefits to an address in Roseville under the name and Social Security number of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, some of the $2 million in total fraudulent payments that were sent to that same address.

But Gov. Gavin Newsom's administration on Monday sought to assure state lawmakers that the fraud pipeline in California has been closed. Employment Development Department Director Rita Saenz said the state has implemented new identity verification software that, along with other preventative measures, has stopped an estimated $120 billion in fraud attempts.

Saenz told lawmakers on Monday during an oversight hearing that 2020 was an anomaly, a criminal assault on the unemployment insurance program across the country."

We closed the door to that type of fraud last year," she said.

In January, state officials estimated the fraud could be as high as $31 billion. But Monday, state officials revised that down to $20 billion. The Newsom administration has hired former U.S. Attorney McGregor Scott to help prosecute scammers, with the department saying Monday investigations are ongoing.

But the department is still plagued with other problems. When people apply for unemployment benefits, sometimes the information they file with the state is different than what their former employer filed. When this happens, state officials have to interview these people to resolve those issues.

But people are having to wait up to six months for these interviews. Saenz called this delay unacceptable. But she said the state has a new policy that pays people their benefits while they wait, as long as they pass the state's fraud filters. Saenz said about half of the people waiting for interviews are being paid.

Things are not improving fast enough for some. There are still some challenges ahead, she said.

California has paid out more than $178 billion in unemployment benefits since the start of the pandemic based on 25.5 million total claims. Saenz said that's four times as much as the combined worst two years of the Great Recession a decade ago.

The sheer volume of claims overwhelmed the department, creating a massive backlog and making it nearly impossible to get an answer when people called the agency's call centers. In January, a state audit blasted the department for doing little to stop the fraud for the first four months of the pandemic, blaming the Newsom administration for significant missteps and inaction.

Monday, the auditor's office said the department had completed 13 of its 21 recommendations so far.

EDD has made notable progress in addressing areas of concern we found during our audits. But significant steps still need to be taken to address areas of risk, said Bob Harris, who managed the department's audit.

Saenz told lawmakers the department had not missed any of the auditor's deadlines to make changes. She said the department plans to finish hiring people for its newly formed fraud investigation unit by the end of November.

But other changes will take longer. The department is working on a new system that will deposit unemployment benefits directly to people's bank accounts instead of sending them check or debit card in the mail, which is more susceptible to fraud. But Saenz said this will take a few years to implement.

That delay upset some lawmakers, who said they were worried people were losing faith in their government.

When one of our government agencies fails this badly, I believe that it breaks the public trust, said Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, a Democrat from Laguna Beach.

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BOISE, Idaho (AP)  Idaho lawmakers will gather in Boise next month to consider legislation banning COVID-19 vaccine mandates by the federal government and private employers, top lawmakers in the House and Senate said Monday.

Republican House Speaker Scott Bedke and Republican Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder said the chambers will likely return for several days on Nov. 15.

The House never officially adjourned, and it can reconvene if called by Bedke. Winder said he would recommend senators return as well.

Bedke said he expects about a dozen pieces of legislation to be introduced, including some to prevent employers from requiring employees get vaccinated. He said lawmakers getting between the employee-employer relationship wasn't his preference, but some lawmakers supported the idea.

The objective is to get all of the various ideas out into the public domain so that everyone can take a look at them, to start the process," Bedke said. "I dont know how many of them, if any of them, will get critical legislative mass, in our bicameral system, but well see."

Both said lawmakers will look at legislation that would allow the state to initiate legal action over federal vaccine mandates on private employers. The legislation would include $2 million for a potential legal battle.

Many Idaho Republican lawmakers are angry with President Joe Bidens vaccine mandate announced in August. The sweeping new vaccine mandates affect 100 million Americans, requiring that employers with more than 100 workers require the workers to be vaccinated or be tested for the virus weekly.

Workers at health facilities who receive federal Medicare or Medicaid will have to be fully vaccinated, affecting more than 17 million health care workers, the White House said. Employees of the executive branch and contractors who do business with the federal government are also required to be vaccinated with no option to test out. That covers several million more workers.

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.

However, that rule has not yet been announced.

Bedke said that if lawmakers pass a law aimed at thwarting Biden's vaccine mandate, the state would have to wait until the rule is announced to file a lawsuit.

There's nothing to sue over at this point, Bedke said. I understand that there is angst among a lot of our citizens on this topic.

The House also has to complete action involving an ethics complaint against Rep. Priscilla Giddings.

A legislative ethics committee in August said Giddings, who publicized the name of an intern who reported a rape by another lawmaker, should be stripped of one of her committee assignments for acting in an a manner unbecoming to the states House of Representatives.

Giddings at the ethics hearing claimed she did nothing wrong, claimed the intern wasnt a crime victim. Giddings refused to answer questions that she said she considered irrelevant.

Giddings is running for lieutenant governor, as is Bedke.

When the legislature returns, it will essentially be a continuation of the 2021 regular session, which hasn't been in session since last May.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The White House is zeroing in on a package of clean energy strategies for President Joe Biden's big domestic policy bill that officials believe could reach similar greenhouse gas emission reduction goals as an initial proposal that was quashed by opposition.

The Biden administration discussed the proposals Monday at the White House with the leaders of about a dozen environmental and justice groups, according to a senior administration official who requested anonymity to share the plans. A new approach was needed after coal-state Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., rejected the White House's earlier clean energy plan.

The emerging proposals would expand grants and loans in the agriculture and industrial sectors to help them shift to clean energy providers with fewer emissions, the official said. There would also be new, refundable home improvement tax credits for tapping solar, wind and other renewable energy sources. The official said momentum was building as the group coalesced around the new ideas.

The new strategies come as the president and Democrats in Congress are struggling to wrap up talks on Biden's now-scaled-back package of at least $1.75 trillion in social services and climate change investments before he departs later this week for two global summits overseas.

Vice President Kamala Harris visited the afternoon meeting with the leaders of some of the nation's leading environmental and justice organizations and reiterated the president's commitment to the goals of the package  even as she acknowledged the sometimes grueling process to achieve consensus in the party.

The president and I and our administration are unwavering in our commitment to these issues. Absolutely unwavering," she said. But you know, theres an old saying, you dont want to watch sausage be made and you dont want to watch a bill being made.

A cornerstone of Bidens climate change strategy had been a clean energy plan that would have rewarded power providers that use clean sources and penalized those that dont.

But that approach had to be scrapped when Manchin objected. With Republicans fully opposed to Biden's big package, the president needs the support of all Democrats in the 50-50 split Senate, with no votes to spare.

The senior administration official said the administration was not wedded to one clean-energy strategy as a silver bullet.

Instead, the administration is coalescing around the new package of strategies that the official said could potentially reach the same emission reduction goals without adding new costs to the overall proposed budget.

It's unclear if the new proposals would be acceptable to Manchin. He has preferred an approach that does not favor one industry over the other as coal begins to be phased out for cleaner energy sources.

The new strategies appear to use more incentives to encourage clean energy use rather than penalties for failing to make the transition, which could help win over Manchin. But climate change advocates have argued that penalties are needed to get industries to more quickly turn to cleaner sources as the world races to confront the dire threats of climate change.

The grants and loans for the agricultural sector would help rural electric cooperatives transition to cleaner energy sources, which could be of interest to Manchin in his rural state.

Similarly, industrial steel, cement and aluminum plants could tap funds to beef up their use of greener sources, the official said. There would also be expanded home improvement tax credits.

Biden is heading later this week to global summits including the U.N. climate change conference in Scotland and he wants a deal in hand as he hopes to reposition the U.S. as a world leader on the issue.

Democrats have been coalescing around an overall plan in Biden's package that offers tax credits and spending to boost renewable power such as wind and solar and sharply increase the number of electric vehicles. Advocates think the plan, plus executive branch action such as a pending EPA rule to curb methane emissions, and action by states, should be enough to meet or nearly meet Bidens goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030, compared with 2005 levels.

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

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CHICAGO (AP)  An order barring the president of the police union from making public statements encouraging members to disobey the citys COVID-19 vaccine mandate expired after a judge on Monday denied a request to extend it.

Earlier this month, Cook County Judge Cecilia Horan granted the citys request for a temporary restraining order. After hearing arguments Monday, she issued a written ruling denying the city of Chicago's renewal and expansion request saying the situation had materially changed.

City attorneys wanted the order extended to include other union leaders in addition to Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara, accusing him of continuing to speak out or having other union officials do so in his place.

Mr. Catanzara continues to make statements that if not cross the line, come right up to over and certainly his toes are crossing the line, Mike Warner, an attorney for the city, said. These statements are adding gasoline to the fire. They are urging his members to engage in an unlawful act.

City employees have to be vaccinated by year's end with few exceptions or risk losing their jobs. Most departments complied with an initial deadline this month to report their status, but the police department has lagged behind in the escalating legal fight with the city.

The city argued the unions actions amounted to encouraging a work stoppage while union attorneys said the matter is part of a unfair labor dispute and the vaccine mandate was ordered without union input.

Horan said that the situation since the first injunction had changed since the Oct. 15 deadline to submit vaccination had passed and the threatened work stoppage has not come to pass.

Catanzara has directed members to defy the citys requirement and been outspoken in recent days on social media and in person. He spoke Monday to dozens of of protesters gathered outside Chicagos City Hall and during a City Council meeting.

This is not the way a government is supposed to run. It is not a queen on that throne. It is a mayor, he said during the meeting, adding that there'd be hundreds of officers defying the order.

He asked aldermen to back the union and support a proposal requiring council approval for policies that govern disciplining city employees, saying those who didn't would see challengers in the 2023 municipal election.

Chicago police leaders, who call the vaccine mandate a matter of protecting officers and the public, have said less than two dozen officers haven't complied with the order to the point of risking their employment. The city's order allows for a temporary window of regular COVID-19 testing at the employees own expense until vaccines can be administered.

Police Superintendent David Brown said Monday that 23 department employees were placed on no-pay status for failing to comply with the order. About 70% of department employees have reported their vaccination status, of which 80% are fully vaccinated, numbers that have recently increased.

We want to stay focused on protecting the people of Chicago. That includes the police officers of this department, Brown said. So we really see this as a life-saving effort for police officers ... Part of that means following through on the vaccine mandate.



Associated Press reporter Kathleen Foody contributed to this report.

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ST. LOUIS  One mans dreams of sailing to the Gulf of Mexico likely came to an end overnight Sunday at the bottom of the Mississippi River.

Michael Webers 44-foot sailboat, the White Widow, had been stuck on the Chain of Rocks since Oct. 5 after he missed the exit for a navigation canal and ended up lodged on the dam north of downtown St. Louis.

While insurance companies haggled over how to remove the vessel, rising water from weekend storms apparently dislodged it. Dustin Witt, parts manager for Port Charles Harbor in St. Charles County, said he assumed it sank. Harbor workers were out about 8 a.m. Monday to hunt for the boat but found nothing, Witt said.

The only thing found at the surface after hours of searching Monday was the boats dinghy floating downstream, a Coast Guard official said.

Weber, who lives near Hell, Michigan, told the Post-Dispatch last week that he and his girlfriend began their trip Sept. 28 from Chicago. The former Marine and retired businessman said hes been boating and sailing for years, mostly in Lake Michigan or an ocean.

Weber blamed insurance companies for delaying recovery of his boat, likely costing him most of his possessions and a dream to spend a year sailing to the Florida Keys and the Bahamas.

They had an opportunity (to retrieve it) the second day with no damage, he said. If they wouldve just gotten it together, my dream would not be now on the bottom of the Mississippi River.

He had been awaiting the arrival of a barge, a crane and a tugboat to lift his boat off the rocks.

Despite his frustration, Weber is staying optimistic.

He and his girlfriend are planning to embark on another adventure. This time, theyll stick to land.

Weber said theyre looking into buying a Mercedes sprinter motorhome and plan to visit Yosemite, Badlands National Park, Mount Rushmore, the Teton mountains and other national landmarks.

St. Louis will not be on their list of destinations, he said.

This is a material loss, and Im old enough and mature enough that you dont let this (stuff) bog you down, he said. I have another dream sitting right in front of me.

A rocky trip: Sailboat owner misses exit, now stuck on Chain of Rocks in Mississippi River Michael Weber shares the tale of how his sailboat got firmly stuck in the Mississippi River near the Chain of Rocks Bridge.

Katie Kull  314-340-8087 @KatieKull1 on Twitter kkull@post-dispatch.com

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LOS ANGELES (AP)  As questions linger about safety protocols on the movie set where Alec Baldwin killed a cinematographer with a prop gun hed been told was safe, Hollywood professionals say theyre baffled by the circumstances and production crews have quickly stepped up safety measures.

Jeffrey Wright, who has worked on projects including the James Bond franchise and the upcoming movie The Batman, was acting with a weapon on the set of Westworld when news broke of the shooting Thursday at a New Mexico ranch. We were all pretty shocked. And it informed what we did from that moment on, he said in an interview Sunday at the Newport Beach Film Festival.

I dont recall ever being handed a weapon that was not cleared in front of me  meaning chamber open, barrel shown to me, light flashed inside the barrel to make sure that its cleared," Wright said. Clearly, that was a mismanaged set.

The shooting on the set of the film Rust killed 42-year-old Halyna Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza, who was standing behind her.

The gun Baldwin used was one of three that a firearms specialist, or armorer, had set on a cart outside the building where a scene was being rehearsed, according to court records. Assistant director Dave Halls grabbed a gun off a cart and handed it to Baldwin, indicating that the weapon was safe by yelling cold gun, court papers say. But it was loaded with live rounds, according to the records.

Baldwin, 63, who is known for his roles in 30 Rock and The Hunt for Red October and his impression of former President Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live, has described the killing as a tragic accident.

The Umbrella Academy actor Justin Min, also at the Newport festival, said its been a very somber time" in recent days on set as hes been filming the indie thriller Detained.

After that  I mean we have obviously already been careful, but its just another level of precaution, Min said.

A prop maker and licensed pyrotechnician who worked with Halls, the assistant director, on another production said she had raised safety concerns about him in the past.

Maggie Goll said in a statement that she filed an internal complaint with the executive producers of Hulus Into the Dark series in 2019 over concerns about Halls' behavior on set. Goll said in a phone interview Sunday that Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician lost consciousness on set.

Halls has not returned phone calls and email messages seeking comment. Rust Movie Productions has not answered repeated emails seeking comment.

The fatal shooting and previous experiences point to larger safety issues that need to be addressed, Goll said, adding that crew member safety and wellbeing are top issues in ongoing contract negotiations between a union that represents film and TV workers and a major producers' group.

This situation is not about Dave Halls. ... Its in no way one persons fault, she said. "Its a bigger conversation about safety on set and what we are trying to achieve with that culture.

A vigil for Hutchins was held Sunday in Southern California, where attendees exchanged tearful hugs and speakers echoed calls for heightened safety standards.

Actor Rosanna Arquette joined many in Hollywood in calling for a move away from using real weapons, whether armed with blanks or bullets.

I hope this wakes people up. Because there should be no live round anything ever on a movie. We have enough CGI, we have enough  its absurd, she said. All of us are shaken to the core in the industry about this.

Actor Ray Liotta agreed with Wright that the checks on firearms are usually extensive.

They always  that I know of  they check it so you can see, Liotta said. They give it to the person youre pointing the gun at, they do it to the producer, they show whoever is there that it doesnt work.

Baldwin, who is a producer on Rust, met with Hutchins' husband and 9-year-old son Saturday at a hotel in Santa Fe where the actor had been staying during filming. Baldwin and Hutchins' husband can be seen embracing in a photo published by the New York Post.



Flaccus reported from Portland, Oregon. Michelle Eaton in Newport Beach, California, contributed to this report.

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

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LAS VEGAS (AP)  A 69-year-old Las Vegas woman is accused of defrauding Social Security for years after she allegedly dismembered her dead husbands body and threw his remains in the trash, according to a federal criminal complaint.

Nancy Shedleski deposited $121,000 of her husband's retirement benefits after his 2015 death, and Social Security officials didn't know anything was wrong until they received an anonymous tip in 2019 that the husband had disappeared, according to the complaint filed last week in Nevada.

The complaint, which charged Shedleski with theft of government money, identified the husband only as J.P.S." and said he was in his 70s when he died.

Survivor benefits for Shedleski in 2019 if her husbands death had been reported would have been $14,000, but her husbands benefits that were distributed that year totaled $24,000, the complaint said.

When contacted by federal officials, Shedleski initially said her husband was traveling, but she later admitted to dismembering his body and disposing of his remains after he died at their Pennsylvania home, the complaint said.

Shedleski confirmed there was no ambulance, no hospitalization, no funeral, no burial and no cremation," the complaint said.

The complaint did not specify the husband's cause of death or say where the couple lived in Pennsylvania before Nancy Shedleski moved to Las Vegas in 2017.

The complaint said her husband last received medical care in 2015 at Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Jefferson Hills, which is near Pittsburgh.

Shedleski was arrested last Thursday and appeared in court in Las Vegas on Friday. She was not asked to enter a plea and was released on her own recognizance pending a Nov. 5 court hearing.

Her court-appointed lawyer, Wendi Overmyer, did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment on Shedleski's behalf.

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The 2022 state and midterm elections are more than a year away, but the clock is ticking for Iowa political parties to recruit candidates and launch campaigns, and the delay in legislative approval of a new plan to set election boundaries is not helping.

In Jones County, for example, Democrats say theyve identified potential candidates or had people come forward expressing an interest in running for the Iowa Legislature.

But you cant expect people to get too involved until they know the district and who they will be running against, said former lawmaker Andy McKean of Anamosa.

The hesitancy from potential candidates is not unique to Jones County. Andy Suchorski of the Democrats Iowa Senate Majority Fund sees that happening around the state. Hes seeing strong interest from Iowans who want to run  but want to know who theyll be up against if they do.

Republican Party of Iowa Chairman Jeff Kaufmann also is hearing from Iowans interested in running for the Legislature or Congress who are waiting to see the final redistricting map before making a decision. However, hes hearing from others who want to run for office regardless of the boundaries.

It's almost like they're motivated by pure enthusiasm, pure desire to serve, and aren't really worried about the details that they're going to have to worry about at some point, Kaufmann said.

The redistricting process first was held up by COVID-19, which caused the U.S. Census Bureau to delay its head count that is used to redraw the boundaries of congressional and legislative districts to reflect population changes every 10 years. The process then has been further delayed because Senate majority Republicans rejected the first plan. A second plan will be considered in a special session Thursday.

McKean wont say extending the approval process is a Republican strategy, but he doesnt rule it out, either.

One thing I would point out is that its a tremendous advantage to incumbents, he recently told a Democratic gathering. I wouldn't be surprised if that's part of what's going on here. It's just kind of kicking the ball down the road a ways. It could very well be that we don't know what the districts are until at the earliest November, and possibly even later than that.

Until then, McKean added, everyone is in a state of suspended animation, he said.

Although overcoming a 32-18 deficit in the Senate may take more than one election cycle, Suchorski said, Democrats are particularly interested in a couple of races. Theyre targeting Senate Majority Leader Jack Whitver of Ankeny, and State Government Committee Chairman Roby Smith of Davenport. Whitver has pushed an aggressive Republican agenda and Smith made his partys argument for rejecting the first redistricting map and has sponsored legislation Democrats label as voter suppression.

Were seeing backlash to that, Suchorski said, adding that potential candidates will present a strong contrast to folks who are in Des Moines who are not working for their constituents. They like to say one thing on the campaign trail and then they go to Des Moines, they vote another way. I think it's catching up to both Smith and Whitver, and I think we're seeing that in the candidate recruitment.

Republican dont face the same recruitment challenge as Democrats. With a 60-40 advantage in the House in addition to their Senate majority, the GOP doesnt have to recruit as a many challengers.

In fact, Kaufmann indicated the problem may be more candidates than openings. Some potential candidates who are not familiar with the process just know they want to run for something  and you don't want to take away that kind of enthusiasm coming from your base.

One challenge for Republicans is that the redistricting plan under consideration would lump many of the GOP legislators in districts with another Republican incumbent, which could lead to primary contests.

Meanwhile McKean said he and fellow Democrats will continue to work with people interested in running. In addition to learning who they might face or whether there will be no incumbent in a newly drawn district, potential candidates want to know the voters registration numbers before declaring their candidacy.

Jones County is pretty red, McKean said, with 4,753 Republicans and 3,354 Democrats. There are 5,804 other registered voters not aligned with either party. Over the years, both Democrats and Republicans have represented the county in the Legislature.

Its a place where a good candidate who runs a good campaign can get elected, said McKean, who entered the Legislature in 1979 as a Republican and left this year as a Democratic. A Democratic may be an underdog, but not without possibilities.

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DES MOINES  With booster shots for all three COVID-19 vaccines all approved by federal regulators, the states public health department has issued guidance for Iowans who want to receive one of the boosters.

WHATS NEW

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has now approved booster doses for all three COVID-19 vaccines: Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. All are now available for distribution and for individuals who qualify to receive them.

WHAT THEY ARE

As with many other vaccines, data shows the COVID-19 vaccines may lose some effectiveness over time. And in the specific case of COVID-19, the original vaccines may not be as effective against the Delta variant, which is now the virus dominant strain. Booster shots are designed to extend the protection offered by the COVID-19 vaccines.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE

According to federal and state public health guidance, among those who received a Pfizer or Moderna vaccine, the following populations are eligible to receive a booster shot 6 months after their initial vaccination was completed:

 People 65 years and older

 People 18 and older who live in long-term care facilities

 People 18 and older with underlying medical conditions

 People 18 and older who live or work in high-risk settings

Anyone 18 years and older who received the single-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine are eligible for a booster shot 2 months after receiving their initial shot.

MIX AND MATCH

The federal Food and Drug Administration has approved the mixing and matching of COVID-19 vaccines and boosters. In other words, an individual who received the initial Moderna vaccine may receive the Pfizer booster shot. Or an individual who received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson vaccine can get a Pfizer or Moderna booster.

QUESTIONS

The state public health department recommends that any Iowan with questions about the COVID-19 vaccines or booster shots ask their health care provider. Iowans can search for a vaccine provider online vaccinate.iowa.gov.

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SIOUX FALLS  Committees in the South Dakota House and Senate approved different legislative district maps on Monday, showing a schism among Republicans who lead each chamber over how to draw the political boundaries the state will use for the next decade.

Republicans, who dominate both committees, started the redistricting process by meeting as a single body. But a split emerged between establishment Republicans who dominate the Senate and a band of more socially conservative GOP House members. As the two committees finalized their respective proposals Monday, they split into two rooms and approved separate proposals to take to a special session on Nov. 8.

The House approved a map that would keep the current legislative districts mostly intact, while the Senates proposal would likely pit some current lawmakers against one another in newly drawn districts. Proponents of the House map say it received positive feedback at public input sessions, but senators argue that their proposal would account for the state's population shifts over the last decade.

Unfortunately, South Dakotas population has changed in that time, so we do have to accept the fact that our districts are going to have to change, said Republican Sen. Mary Duvall, who chaired the Senate committee.

Negotiations on the map proposals will continue over the coming weeks and into the legislative session, as lawmakers try to iron out several key sticking points. One of the most significant is ensuring representation for Native American voters. Federal law requires that racial minorities receive adequate representation in legislative boundaries.

In the past, South Dakota has run into trouble for diluting the representation of Native American voters  a federal judge found that the Legislature broke the federal law during redistricting in 2001.

This year, tribal leaders and advocates for Native American voters have told lawmakers they believe the U.S. Census Bureau undercounted the population on several American Indian reservations. Lawmakers have previously insisted that they are bound to use the census numbers, but on Thursday, they acknowledged the tribes' concerns.

The Senate committee allowed two districts that cover American Indian reservations to contain a smaller census population than was previously allowed.

Republican Sen. Helene Duhamel called the change a good faith effort to be a little bit more fair," given the concerns about a census undercount during the pandemic.

The House on Friday will consider incorporating a similar proposal from Republican Rep. Mike Derby. He has also proposed map changes to an area in northern Rapid City where many Native American people live. His map would ensure that the area falls into a single legislative district.

Advocates for Native American communities have consistently pointed to that area as an example of how Native American voters in some areas are not able to gain representation in the Legislature.

The current boundaries do not set our community up for adequate and equitable representation, Sunny Red Bear, the director of racial equity at Rapid City-based NDN Collective, told senators.

Meanwhile, lawmakers expect a long day of negotiations on Nov. 8.

Duvall, who will present the Senate proposal to her colleagues, suggested that the session could run into the next day. If lawmakers can't reach an agreement by Dec. 1, the state Supreme Court would be tasked with drawing the final map.

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

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Two Iowa judges have come to two vastly differing conclusions about the activities of striking union workers at Deere factories.

A Polk County judge on Tuesday denied Deere & Co.s petition to limit picketing activities outside of the companys Des Moines-area facilities in Ankeny.

Meanwhile, a temporary injunction remains in place for picketing workers in Scott County.

Deere claimed in court filings that Automobile, Aerospace and Agricultural Implement Workers of America engaged in "illegal and unlawful" conduct that included trespassing on Deere property "and the use of mass picketing, coercion, and intimidation to disrupt Deeres enjoyment of its property and lawful business operations." The UAW is in ongoing labor-contract negotiations with Deere & Co. and workers have been on strike for two weeks.

The company pointed to affidavits from two contractors and video from Deere's Ankeny facilities, claiming picketing UAW members have attempted to block access to delivery vehicles and discourage third-party contractors from conducting "critical work that is not part of the work performed by the Union and its members." As a result, Deere claims the union and its members have and continue to cause "irreparable loss and injury to Deere."

Polk County District Court Judge Paul Scott, however, found the video evidence submitted by Deere in support of its request failed to show any illegal conduct on the part of the UAW or its members.

"The video evidence ... shows vehicles have been slowed down by picketers in crosswalks; it fails to prove illegal conduct has occurred," Scott wrote in his order denying Deere's request.

The company had asked the court to limit the number of picketers at entrances to Deere's Des Moines Works factory to four (as it was able to do in Scott County), and prohibit picketers at its warehouse in Ankeny. Deere claims that no union or bargaining unit work is performed at the Ankeny warehouse.

The UAW, as well, has placed limitations on the number of people protesting at the picket sites (10 people at the main gate and five at other sites); posted rules for and held presentations on picketing for members before going to picket sites; and ensured that each site has a captain who is responsible for ensuring the picketing is done peacefully an accordance with federal, state and local laws, according to testimony from the chairman of UAW Local No. 450.

"The Union asserts that it has made and it continues to make good-faith efforts to address issues and concerns raised by Deere," Scott wrote in his order. "If a picketer steps outside the bounds of protected activity, that picketer is removed."

Scott ruled Deere failed to show it will suffer substantial injury or damages unless an injunction is granted.

"There has been evidence of isolated instances of violations of the law," with the denial of access to Deere facilities to two contractors by picketers. "However, the incidents are the exception to what has otherwise been a non-violent and law-abiding demonstration by the Union."

Attorneys for the union, representing Davenport-based UAW Local 281, have asked a Scott County District Court Judge to vacate an order granting Deere's request for a temporary injunction limiting UAW member's picketing activities outside a Davenport plant.

Attorneys Mark Hedberg and Nathaniel Boulton, of Cedar Rapids-based Hedberg & Boutlon, argue Judge Marlita Greve considered only Deeres side of the story when issuing the injunction last week, even using Deeres language, verbatim, in her ruling.

The UAW was not given an opportunity to respond to the claims nor supply its own evidence, the attorneys wrote. And were not even notified Deere was seeking an injunction until Greve had agreed to it.

Hedberg and Boulton, in a prepared statement, said the Polk County District Court reaffirms "the great lengths the union has gone to engage in not only lawful, but legally-protected picketing activities.'

"It is unfortunate that Deere has tried to use state court intervention to disrupt and control the unions right to engage in picketing, but we are encouraged that the court saw through that effort and ultimately protected the unions rights," Hedberg said in a statement.

As for how the ruling will impact the UAW's attempts to vacate restriction in Scott County remains unclear.

"To me, its obviously telling when both sides were able to present evidence, a very different result came out of the court," Boulton said.

A hearing on the union's motion filed Monday to vacate the order had yet to be scheduled as of Tuesday afternoon. Boulton said the court has 10 days to consider the motion to vacate.

"Hopefully, within the next 10 days well know something," he said.

The Scott County order limits gate-picket presence to four people and required the removal of fire barrels and chairs from picket-line areas.

A UAW official declined to comment on the Polk County District Court decision, citing pending litigation, and referred all inquiries to attorneys.

A Deere & Co. spokesperson did not immediately respond for a request to comment Tuesday afternoon.

Reporters Barb Ickes and Cara Smith contributed to this story.

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DAVENPORT, Iowa -- Striking UAW workers say a judges order that is limiting their picketing activities outside a Davenport plant was issued improperly, and they want the temporary injunction vacated immediately.

Attorneys for the Davenport-based UAW Local 281, which is in ongoing labor-contract negotiations with Deere & Co., say a judge in Scott County took only Deeres side of the story when issuing the injunction last week.

The order directed striking UAW members to limit to four the number of picketers near gates at Davenport Works, and banned burn barrels and lawn chairs, among other restrictions.

In their motion filed Monday to vacate the order, the union's attorneys said Judge Marlita Greve wrote her six-page order within two hours of receiving Deeres complaint and request  even using Deeres language, verbatim, in her ruling.

Attorneys Mark Hedberg and Nathaniel Bolton, of Cedar Rapids-based Hedberg & Boutlon, argue that injunction orders must contain affidavits and/or sworn testimony as evidence of allegations made in Deeres motion to restrict strike activities.

Instead, Deere merely supplied the court with several copies of a prepared document, signed by a half-dozen delivery drivers.

The UAW, meanwhile, was not given an opportunity to respond to the claims nor supply its own evidence, the attorneys wrote. In fact, they said, the union was not notified Deere was seeking an injunction until Greve had agreed to it.

Not one allegation of actual damage to property, or a single arrest, supports these assertions that wanton lawlessness on the picket line threatens the Plaintiff and the public, according to the UAWs motion to vacate the injunction.

It was an abuse of discretion for the District Court to grant injunctive relief without notice, without a hearing, and based exclusively on information supplied by one party.

Here, a temporary restraining order petition was considered without a hearing or even notice to the Defendants and was followed by a six-page order being issued all within one hour and fifty-five minutes.

The behavior by picketers, deemed unlawful by Deere and by the judge, has been within the unions rights, the attorneys argue.

First and foremost, the alleged unlawful behavior is devoid of a single arrest or citation for a violation of the law, the motion states.

To demonstrate the union has substantive responses to Deere & Cos complaints, union officials submitted an affidavit, signed by Local 281 Chairman Michael Mansker.

He said he was aware of no complaints of delivery drivers being blocked from entering any gates at Davenport Works; no one has been arrested or cited by law enforcement over conduct while picketing; he is unaware of any issues or dangers associated with burn barrels or lawn chairs, which were barred by Greves order.

There is no evidence that any notice was provided to the Defendants prior to filing the petition, despite the fact that the Defendants include a local union with its place of business located literally within blocks of the Plaintiffs facility, that the parties are regularly meeting in-person in the local area, and the parties have been in regular communication throughout the timeframe in which the petition was filed, the attorneys concluded.

As the UAW's motion to vacate the temporary injunction was filed late Monday, Greve has not yet responded.

Meanwhile, the president and the chairman for Local 281 also submitted affidavits to the court, assuring Greve their members are complying with her order. She had given them three days to do so.

"The union has provided each of our officers, representative agents, members and picketers with a copy of the order, along with a clear written directive that they refrain from engaging in and of the misconduct enjoined in the order as well as advising them of the consequences for violating the order," according to affidavits signed by 281 President Travis Hanrahan and Chairman Michael "Gus" Mansker.

The pair also told Greve in their filing, "We have designated responsible persons to act as picket captain to control the conduct of pickets."

They have limited gate-picket presence to four people and have removed fire barrels and chairs from picket-line areas.

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HONG KONG (AP)  The human rights group Amnesty International said it will close its two offices in Hong Kong this year, becoming the latest non-governmental organization to cease operations amid a crackdown on political dissent in the city.
Before the NATO ministerial meeting in Brussels this week, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin took a side trip to Georgia and Ukraine.

Purpose: Assure these nations that America has their back and encourage their hopes of future admission to NATO. Austin, said the Pentagon, would tell both nations there is an "open door to NATO."

"Ukraine ... has a right to decide its own future foreign policy," said Austin in Kiev, "and we expect that they will be able to do that without any outside interference." He went on:

"No third country has a veto over NATO's membership decisions. Ukraine ... has a right to decide its own future foreign policy, and we expect that they will be able to do that without any outside interference."

The U.S. apparently backed up Austin's words by sending B-1B bombers over the Black Sea. Said the Russian Defense Ministry:

"Russian fighter crews identified the air targets as two B-1B supersonic strategic bombers accompanied by two KC-135 tanker aircraft of the US Air Force and escorted them over the Black Sea."

Why are we sending nuclear-capable bombers over the Black Sea?

Why are we holding out to Kiev and Tbilisi hope that they will be invited to join NATO and receive a U.S.-NATO Article V war guarantee to have the U.S. fight alongside them if there is another crisis with Russia such as occurred in South Ossetia and Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014?

We did not fight Russia then. And we are not going to fight Russia now, or tomorrow, as these regions and these issues are not vital national interests of the United States.

Nor is the Black Sea the only region where the U.S. is hinting at confrontation and possible war.

With Iran refusing to return to compliance with the nuclear deal from which President Donald Trump walked away in 2018, or renew talks to do so, Secretary of State Antony Blinken warns there are "other options if Iran does not change its course."

"With every passing day, and Iran's refusal to engage in good faith, the runway gets short. ... Time is running short. We are getting closer to a point at which returning to compliance with the JCPOA (the nuclear deal) will not in and of itself recapture the benefits of the JCPOA."

"We will continue to look at every option to deal with the challenge that is posed by Iran." The phrase "every option" manifestly includes a war option.

After a recent meeting in Washington, D.C., Americans and Israelis began talking of a "Plan B" for dealing with a recalcitrant Iran, which sounds very much like a threat to go to war.

Under President Joe Biden as well as Trump, the U.S. has been ratcheting up the number of "freedom of navigation operations" by U.S. warships in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. And we have encouraged allies to send their warships to do the same, which several have done.

We have told Japan, the Philippines and the world that our mutual security treaties cover Manila's claim to Chinese-occupied islets of the South China Sea and the Japanese-controlled Senkakus in the East China Sea.

When China, over a four-day period, sent 150 warplanes into the air defense identification zone south of Taiwan, U.S. leaders declared that our support of the island is "rock solid."

Yet, the U.S. security treaty with Taiwan lapsed four decades ago.

In February, Republicans in Congress introduced a Taiwan Invasion Prevention Act to authorize Biden to use any military action required to repel an attack by China on Taiwan or its island possessions.

Democrats are considering a similar measure to give Biden authority to resist a Chinese attack on the island or an attempt to overrun it or force its surrender to the mainland.

These Congressional moves to cede new war powers to the president come as Congress is considering repeal of the Authorization for Use of Military Force used to take us into the 1991 Gulf War and to invade Iraq in 2003.

Consider, then, a brief summation of the confrontational postures adopted by the Biden diplomats.

We are openly warning Russia that the U.S. may soon bring Ukraine and Georgia into NATO, which would entail a U.S. war guarantee to fight on those nations' behalf in a future military clash with Moscow.

We are openly warning Iran that time is running out, that if Tehran does not return to negotiations on the nuclear deal and compliance with its terms, a U.S. attack on Iran cannot be ruled out.

We are putting China on notice that we do not accept its broad claims to the islets of the East and South China Seas, and we may be there to fight alongside our allies to sustain their claims.

Now congressional leaders in both parties are crafting measures to give Biden authorization to take us to war with China to protect Taiwan, whose declaration of independence, warns Beijing, would cross its "red line" and mean war.

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DAKOTA CITY  Over 96 percent of Tyson Foods employees have received the COVID-19 vaccine, the meat company announced Tuesday, less than a week before a deadline for its frontline workers to get the shot.

"We couldnt be happier to let you know that, as of today, over 96% of our active team members are vaccinated  or nearly 60,000 more than when we made the announcement on Aug. 3," Tyson CEO Donnie King said in a memo to employees. "This is an incredible result  not only for our company, but for your families and our communities across the country."

Tyson employs about 120,000 people in the U.S., which means more than 4,000 remain unvaccinated or were granted exemptions for medical or religious reasons.

Employees at Tyson offices, including its Fresh Meats headquarters in Dakota Dunes, S.D., were required to be fully vaccinated by Oct. 1. All other team members, including front-line workers at the company's flagship beef plant in Dakota City, Nebraska, and pork and turkey plants in Storm Lake, Iowa, face a Nov. 1 deadline to get the vaccine.

King's memo released Tuesday suggests the company has already parted ways with some workers who refused to get vaccinated.

"Id also like to say to those who remain unvaccinated  this is your choice, and we respect that choice," King said in the memo. "If you change your mind and want to rejoin Tyson  let us know. Our doors are open."

In September, Tyson struck a deal with the United Food and Commercial Workers that included support for the vaccine mandate. Under the agreement, Tyson workers can now earn up to 20 hours of paid sick leave. The union said it was the union's first time reaching a national agreement to provide paid sick leave for meatpacking workers.

As the largest union for Tyson workers across the country, UFCW is determined to keep all our members safe from this deadly pandemic, and ensure they are rewarded for their sacrifices," the UFCW said in a statement Tuesday. "Working together, the UFCW and Tyson set a new standard with this vaccine mandate, and have proved whats possible when we listen to workers and negotiate the implementation of vaccination mandates fairly and responsibly."

The UFCW represents over 24,000 unionized front-line workers at Tyson plants across the country, including the Dakota City beef plant, which is Tyson's largest.

With over 4,500 workers, Tyson is by far the largest employer in metro Sioux City.

Tyson Foods has staged in excess of 100 vaccination events since February and offered $200 bonus and $6 million sweepstakes to encourage workers to get the shots.

"Has this made a difference in the health and safety of our team members?" King said in the memo. "Absolutely. Weve seen a significant decline in the number of active cases, company-wide."

King said he also has "received many notes from team members who have helped convince others in their family, and in their community, to get vaccinated."

"Wherever you live, if you are one of these people, know that you have made your community safer," the CEO said in the email.

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

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Denis Villeneuves Dune is a barrage of beautiful cinematography and sonic extremes. As you take in its entrancing visuals, you hear whispers and shouts, but almost nothing in between. None of the sustained dialogue, character development, or painstaking world building that was a hallmark of Frank Herberts novels. To make Dune accessible, Villeneuves team attempted to replace Herberts inner monologues and narration with visual and aural cues, focusing on Paul and his mother so as to, as Villeneuve put it, allow us to feel what their mind-set is without having a voice-over.

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Whats left when you take away all of those thoughts and ideas and all of that detailed exposition and replace it with sweeping vistas and a blaring Hans Zimmer score? What remains on the sandy plains of Arrakis is, in large part, a vague Middle Eastern and North African aesthetic, peppered with actual Arabic words and filmed on location in Jordan and Abu Dhabi. Unfortunately, that aesthetic is not neutral in Hollywood, and the image of an Arab-ish crowd or veiled wailing women, not to mention when its injected with violence, has a history that is steeped in the dehumanization of entire peoples. It is certainly possible to reclaim and complicate these images, but that would have required an upfront act of subversion by the filmmakers. At the very least, it needed a multifaceted nonwhite character who survived to the end.

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Herbert writes that his story began with a concept: to do a long novel about the messianic convulsions which periodically inflict themselves on human societies. In so doing, he was particular that it was Western man who was the focus of his ire, who uses this messianic impulse to control other societies and further inflict himself on the environment. After working on a story about sand dune control in Florence, Oregon, he was inspired to set his story on a desert planet. This led him to live for some time in the Sonoran Desert as well as to, in his own words, a re-examination of Islam.

Dune relies heavily on Islam to build its universe. For Herbert, Islam is a major part of human heritage and, by extension, its future. His use isnt simple window dressing either: It shows a deep engagement with both the beliefs and histories of a wide variety of Muslims. And he further complicates his usage by not confining this Muslim flavor to the Fremen, the Native people of Arrakis. Rather, he extends it throughout the storys universeits peoples, religions, proverbs, and books.

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The messiah he constructs is called a Mahdi, a Muslim term that refers not only to a messianic, end-times figure but also to the many historical figures who have made a claim to that title. And history has seen many failed messiahs, Mahdis among them. In his study of Mahdis and the jihads they led, the strongest influences on his story were the Sufi Muslims who fought against European colonialism in the 19th century. These include the Algerian Amir Abd al-Qadir al-Jazairi, who, like the Fremen, made weapons factories in the desert in his fight against the French; the Chechen Imam Shamil, who fought against the Russians; and, in the most obvious of ways, the Mahdi of Sudan, Muhammad Ahmad ibn Abdullah, whose war against the British became a consistent feature of English literature for decades after his defeat.

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I am a political animal, Herbert said in 1983. And I never really left journalism. I am writing about the current scenethe metaphors are there. Dune was written during the height of decolonization in the Muslim world. His story reflects this, at times in obvious ways. In the book, the Fremen cheer and chant for Paul, their Mahdi, by yelling out Ya hya chouhada. His mother tells the readers that this means long live the fighters. Jessicas translation is mostly correct. The phrase is Arabic for long live the martyrs (shuhada), and was chanted by Algerians when Benyoucef Benkhedda (one of the leaders of the Algerian war of independence and the head of its first provisional government from 1961 to 1962) arrived in Algiers after gaining independence from France. Note how this was reported in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette on July 4, 1962, just three years before Dune was published:

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After [Benkheddas] speech at the airport, he and his ministers were preceded into the heart of the city by several hundred tough, battle-hardened guerillas from Algerias green Kab[y]lie mountains. The deafening roar Ya hya chouhada (long live the fighters) echoed in the streets 

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Not only is this scene reminiscent of Dune, but Herbert even kept the French spelling and translation directly in his own narrative. His story might have taken place thousands of years into the future, but it was intentionally calling to mind current events.

Even the name Paul takes on, MuadDib, reflects this period of history. On Arrakis, it refers to a kangaroo mouse, but in the explanation of its meaning provided by Stilgar (the Fremen leader played by Javier Bardem in the movie), he says it also means instructor-of-boys, a definition Herbert probably pulled from the glossary of Richard Francis Burtons translation of One Thousand and One Nights. But Herberts MuadDib was also likely inspired by the first president of Mali after its independence from France, Modibo Keita. Keita, a descendent of Malian aristocracy, was depicted in a 1961 article in the New York Times as the only spokesman for the African community tall enough to look President de Gaulle in the eye. He was an ideal symbol for Frank Herbert, a man from the desert facing a colonial empire in the eyes. And Keita, as a member of the United Nations, was an advocate for Pan-African unity, the Non-Aligned Movement, and Algerian independence. He had all the makings of a hero. He even visited John F. Kennedy (another hero-in-making for Herbert) in 1961, so he would have been difficult to ignore for someone who was keeping abreast of politics. Modibo is simply the Fula language spelling of MuadDib, meaning the same thing, a fact that would have been obvious to Herbert, who prided himself on knowing how language changes over time and place. He likely had even come across the common title in his own research, which included the history of West and East Africa.

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Villeneuve may have been aware of some of these themes when he chose to cast African and Black American actors for his movie adaptation, and at the time the casting was first announced, this felt like something to be celebrated. Yet when it became clear that the casting of these African and Black American actors was to the exclusion of North African and Middle Eastern actors, many were disappointed. Add to it that the strongest Black performances were for characters who died or who lacked the depth afforded to Paul and his mother, and the choice ultimately felt empty.

Villeneuve and his co-writers clearly tried to use language to complicate all of this. The movie features the inclusion of several fictional languages, and the Padishah Emperors Sardaukar are led in a prayer that sounds like Mongolian throat-singing, a nod to the Turco-Mongolian flourishes of the Padishah Emperors court and army in the book. But any of this nuance is drowned out in beautiful desert scenes whose feeling is somehow supposed to do the work of Herberts narrative. How could it not when the feelings associated with such images have already been predetermined by Hollywoods long history of depicting Muslims as the enemy?

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Part of this is also Herberts fault. By writing a story in which he intended to critique Western man, Herbert also centered Western man. Often when critiquing something, one falls into a binary that prevents the very third option that so many have been looking for since decolonization. Herberts greatest shortcoming can be seen in his analysis of T.E. Lawrence and the deification of leaders in an interview he gave in 1969. He said, If Lawrence of Arabia had died at the crucial moment of the British  he would have been deified. And it would have been the most terrifying thing the British had ever encountered, because the Arabs would have swept that entire peninsula with that sort of force, because one of the things weve done in our society is exploited this power.

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Herberts shortcoming is not his idea that Western man seeks to exploit the deification of charismatic leaders but that Arabs (or any other non-Western) would fall easily for it. This notion, in fact, builds on a stereotype that motivated European powers to fund propaganda among Muslims during the world wars in the hope that they could provoke a global jihad against one another. Needless to say, that didnt happen, because Islam isnt a warrior religion whose followers are just waiting for the right trigger to go berserk. Islams followers are human and are as complicated and multifaceted as other humans. Herbert should have seen that more clearly.

Part of the reason for Herberts clear orientalism was simply that he was a product of his time. Most English and French literature about Islam and desert cultures at that time was orientalist. (Edward Saids groundbreaking book Orientalism, in fact, was published more than a decade later, in 1978.) To his credit, Herbert tried to complicate this as much as he could. Language was the primary tool he used to do thisspoken language, because in his own words, We are most profoundly conditioned to language-as-speech. When you remove that language, when narrative is replaced by an unarticulated feeling or aesthetic, that centering of whiteness reads, in a way, as a type of white savior narrative. Even when the savior fails, destroys everything, and becomes a monster, his agency overrides that of everyone else and reduces them to side stories who are swept away in the terrific power of his myth. Everyone else who could have spoken but wasnt allowed to becomes a mere accessory to a tragic coming-of-age story.

Dune deserves a good movie adaptation, but all good movies need to be aware of the shortcomings of their source material as well as the realities of their own age. A subversive and powerful reading of Dune is possible, even a reading that Herbert would have appreciated, but in its present form, this current movie becomes just the sort of phenomenon that Herbert set out to critique.
Sharifa Abbasi is an immigration lawyer based in Virginia. Three days a week, she drives deep into a military base in Quantico, the area known as the crossroads of the Marines corps. But its not the soldiers Abbasi is there to seeits the refugees. Hundreds of them, all from Afghanistan, trying to figure out where theyll go next. When Abbasi saw pictures of planes full of desperate Afghans fleeing their country, she had a realization: When those planes landed, it was going to create a logistical nightmare. So she got a job as the legal lead at Quantico. Now, she spends the bulk of her work week translating the vagaries of U.S. immigration law into Dari. On Tuesdays episode of What Next, I spoke with Abbasi about the tens of thousands of Afghans now living in the U.S.but still struggling. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Mary Harris: When did you decide you needed to start volunteering with people coming into this country, like how did you begin to do that?

Sharifa Abbasi: I mean, right away. I felt like I had to do something in one capacity or another. I just I had to get involved. If I couldnt help at this point in time with the skills Ive gained from my experiences and then when would I ever use them? I couldnt just sit back and not do anything.

You heard about thousands of Afghans being held temporarily at a convention center in Virginia after they touched down. This became a place for Afghan Americans to rally around the refugees, supporting them with food, donations, and legal help. So you went.

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It was just overwhelming. It has a lot of people coming in at once, trying to figure out what the process is. Mainly, they were just getting registered there. Theyre spending a couple of hours to maybe a night or two nights there until they were able to find transportation to get moved to the next step in the process, which is the military bases.

Part of what makes your work so complicated right now is that the law is literally changing day by day. There was no time to give people fleeing Afghanistan official status as refugees, so instead, many are now in the U.S. on something called parole. Its a temporary status that basically allows people to live here for a couple of years. But that came with other complications: Who is going to provide for these people?

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Normally if you come in on parole, there is no guarantee that youre going to get benefits. But maybe two or three weeks ago, the government passed legislation that basically said any Afghan who has been paroled will get refugee benefits.

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Parolees have to apply for permanent residency or seek another way to stay in the U.S. long term. And it can be costly navigating around the immigration system. Refugees often have some of their application fees covered by the government. Parolees dont.

Some of these people, if theyre lucky, they have family here. They have some sort of tie here in the U.S. that can help them with these processes. But a lot of these people dont have anybody. So I think thats where a lot of these nonprofits are going to have to step in and offer pro bono representation for their immigration paperwork.

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My understanding is that the parolee status is good for two years, and then you have to figure something out. It makes me wonder whether were going to see a new surge of people in a few years who are maybe trying to get some other status in the country.

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There will be a surge, definitely. Most parolees are on the visas, but when those start to run out, theyll realize they need to do something about their status. Thats where the immigration attorneys are going to see a wave of people seeking help.

Is there one family that youve been able to follow through the entire process of landing in this country and now living in Virginia, or elsewhere?

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I do know of a family that was at the base in Wisconsin, Fort McCoy, and now theyre in Virginia. They didnt wait to go to get placed to a resettlement agency. Theres a term, independent departures, for families who are done with whatever they need to do to maintain their parole statusgetting their vaccines, things like thatand are given the option to leave. This family took that route. They dont have housing, so theres another family giving them housing for right now until they can get something for themselves. They all also qualify for federal benefits, food stamps, Medicaid, whatever the state. But even for that, you have to go and sign up at the relevant agencies, and theyre severely at capacity.

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So when they show up to get benefits, its just crazy?

Last night, I was talking to somebody who went to the Social Services Office to apply for some of these benefits. And she said that the line was like out the door.

Was it refugees, or was it everyone?

Its mostly people who have independently departed the bases and have to go and try to how to apply for benefits.

It doesnt sound like theres an opportunity for folks to ease into whatever life theyre about to enter. I cant imagine going from a settlement center or military base to suburban Virginia all of a sudden.

Unfortunately, thats the process. They have a little bit of time to figure things out, because the bases provide everything for them. Theyre not getting thrown out into the real world. But once they get off these bases, thats when its going to really hit them. Even the government benefits are not permanent. And I always tell the people I advise, theyre about to be smacked with responsibilities. There are so many bills, so many responsibilities. Theyre going to have to learn to speak English, perhaps get a drivers license, get health insurance, enroll the kids in schools, doctors appointments, things of that sort. This is not like daily life in Afghanistan, so theres a cultural disparity. And the people who lived in the rural provinces of Afghanistan lived a completely different lifestyle than what they see here.

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For years after handing the 2000 election to George W. Bush, then-Justice Antonin Scalia would tell people who inquired about the courts thin, poorly reasoned opinion in the case to get over it. It was easy for him to say that. His decision may have led to the disastrous war in Iraq, but he wasnt fighting there. Its a useful lesson to bear in mind when we contemplate what allows powerful people to instruct less powerful people that it is high time to move on: a lack of personal stake in the mess they seek to leave behind. We see this same dynamic when, after every shattering school shooting, politicians with the power to change laws, like Sen. Ted Cruz, explain that it is instead time to move on. Its easy for Ted Cruz to move on when his children are still alive.

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Time to move on has unsurprisingly come to represent the bulk of the GOP response to Donald Trumps actions, both while he was in office and after. Lets move past this was the best response to the behaviors that triggered both the first and second impeachments, and the behaviors that helped foment an insurrection at the Capitol and continue to undermine public confidence in the vote. Let us look forward, not backward, Oklahoma Republican Tom Cole said on the House floor during the debate over Trumps second impeachment last January. Let us come together, not apart. Let us celebrate the peaceful transition of power to a new president rather than impeaching an old president. Never mind that the failure to hold him to account in the first impeachment led to the horrors of a mass effort to subvert the election (an effort that we are still only starting to fathom) and also led to a failed second impeachment. No, the effort to impeach him most recently was still met with the insistence by the bulk of his party that it was time to move on. Of course it was easy for them to suggest that its time. Its always time to move on if your life is unchanged by what came before.

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Looking forward, whether justified by the need to pick your battles, or depoliticize institutions, or prioritize and triage existential crises, or ignore clownish attention seekers, is so alluringly, quintessentially, and optimistically American. That might be why looking forward and moving on is also the MO for the Biden Justice Department, which has largely opted not to hold anyone in the Trump administration accountable for past crimes or alleged crimes. Looking backward is plodding and past-focused and also aging for the skin. So when Condoleezza Rice, former secretary of state, now the director of the Hoover Institution, said on The View that its time to move on in a lot of ways from the events at the Capitol on Jan. 6, it was of a piece with a larger public zeitgeist that holds that, look, man, everything sucks, everyones busy, COVID is awful, and democracy is basically self-reinforcing, so lets think about tomorrow and leave yesterday where it belongs.

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You can be impressed with Rices capacity for contortionism. On the one hand, there she was telling the folks at The View that she cried when she witnessed the events of Jan. 6 and reaffirming that I dont know how much more strongly I can say what happened on Jan. 6 was wrong. But on the other hand, even as she insisted that institutions need to be protected, she also urged that now is the time for lawmakers to move ahead and deal with the American peoples issues. The institutionsand all the assorted vulnerable people who rely on themwill apparently have to fend for themselves. The rank hypocrisy of the move forward dammit contingent of the GOP is hardly limited to Trumpismthe writer Gore Vidal famously wrote in 2004 that happily for the busy lunatics who rule over us, we are permanently the United States of Amnesia. We learn nothing because we remember nothing.

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Its also a show of the kind of untouchable advantage they hold because they always remain wholly unaffected by what has occurred.

What Ted Cruz and Condoleezza Rice and all the generals of the move on army thus perform here isnt just a cynical manipulation of tempting, forward-looking ideas about unity and priorities and real-world problem-solving. This is, after all, the party of Benghazi and But Her Emails. Its also a show of the kind of untouchable advantage they hold because they always remain wholly unaffected by what has occurred. To be able to ignore the Iraq war, to be free to ignore Trumps pitiless immigration policies, to have the luxury of closing the door on Jan. 6, is not so much a marker of an open mind, an objective and temperate worldview, or a more capacious perspective on what the country needs to see happen next. It is also a mirror of which classes of people were harmed by those events and who remained untouched by them. If you are unable to just get over the Trump teams assaults on the levers of democracy themselves, its not necessarily because you are vengeful and bloodthirsty or transactional. It may simply be, as Chauncey DeVega wrote last winter in Salon, that to put oneself outside or above this present moment is to exercise the privilege of being separate and apart from history and its pushes and its pulls, successes and failures, joy and pain, lived consequences and experiences.

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In a perfect Ted Lasso world, we could all be the goldfish: blessed with a 10-second memory and the soothing capacity to sail past errors and regrets into a sunlit world of possibility and new beginnings. But there is a difference between processing, addressing, and remediating past wrongs and being directed by those in power to forget them. The former is the work of justice; the latter is the province of bullies. And as we enter another week in which the actions of Jan. 6 are being probed and evaluated by a select committee that has been stymied by those who insist that its time we all move forwardor elseits worth saying out loud that this isnt about one-half of the country that seeks to look forward as another doggedly remains stuck in the past. This is, instead, about picking between two alternate stories we tell about the same past. One such story might at least pave a path forward to healthier democratic institutions. The other seems ever more destined to drag us into a future in which we are seemingly doomed to keep repeating the very horrors we are being told to forget.
In Virginia, theres a neck-and-neck gubernatorial race going on between Democrat Terry McAuliffe and Republican Glenn Youngkin. To be frank, I havent been paying much attention to this race because Ive been assigned to other stories and, like most people, I dont live in Virginia. But I have a vague understanding that history curriculums are a big issue for Youngkin because of the controversy over so-called critical race theory instruction in public schools.

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It was in this context, and the context of receiving emails from two of my childrens principals this morning about after-school care being canceled because the second catastrophic flooding event in the area since Labor Day weekend is imminent, that the following pullout from a USA Today/Suffolk University poll of Virginians struck me right in the face:

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"Should parents or school boards have more of an influence on a school's curriculum?"



(Rep) (Dem) (Ind)

Parents: 79% 16% 57%

School Board: 12% 70% 32%

Undecided: 9% 14% 10%  Corey A. DeAngelis (@DeAngelisCorey) October 26, 2021

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There are a few problems with this question, one being that parents elect school boards in the first place. But a much bigger problem is that it suggests the existence of parents who want to spend more time dealing with logistical issues related to their children, something that already takes up approximately 99.9 percent of my waking brain energy.

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.

Can you imagine even having to review one entire years worth of curriculum to approve it, much less providing detailed input on it? And doing this, probably, on a Zoom meeting with hundreds of other people? Do these angry parents know how much planning it takes to fill six hours each day with material thats interesting enough to keep children from breaking everything in the classroom by hitting each other with it (elementary school) or texting each other TikToks about recreational drug use and open-minded sexual promiscuity (contemporary high school, I assume)?

Anyone who answered parents on that question has too much time and needs a hobby or other means of passing the time and finding purpose in life. In fact, I have the perfect thing: taking care of my children, this afternoon. Bring an umbrella.
This article is part of the Free Speech Project, a collaboration between Future Tense and the Tech, Law, & Security Program at American University Washington College of Law that examines the ways technology is influencing how we think about speech.

Thanks to whistleblower Frances Haugens testimony and the news articles based on documents she leaked, the public has gained an alarming new perspective on how Facebook ignored, downplayed, or failed to adequately address harassment, mis- and disinformation, and incitements to violence on its platform in several major countries. The documents, which CNN claims could be the biggest crisis in Facebooks history, have revealed just how the network became an incubator of hate and terrorism from the U.S. to Ethiopia. Yet the most shocking revelations concern the nation that serves as the apps biggest user base: India, the worlds largest backsliding democracy.

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Reports of social mediafueled horrors within Indiaattacks on Muslims, lower-caste peoples, women, the poor, and refugeeshave been troublingly commonplace for a half-decade now. Yet what the Facebook Papers confirm is not just that the network failed to curb Hindu nationalist hate speech and inadequately directed resources to monitor a nation with 340 million users; it also actively granted impunity to the worst offenders. And according to Haugen, this was one of her foremost concerns when she began to reach out to reporters with the internal information she held.

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Lets start with the first point. According to the Verge, at the end of 2019 Facebook placed India within tier zero, meaning it was one of the countries of utmost priority for the networks harm-reduction efforts. (The timing here is noteworthy, as India had then erupted in mass protests against an Islamophobic law, which continued until an ugly anti-Muslim pogrom months later effectively deflated the rallies.) Yet Facebook was far more focused on another tier zero country: the U.S. Per the New York Times, Eighty-seven percent of the companys global budget for time spent on classifying misinformation is earmarked for the United States, while only 13 percent is set aside for the rest of the world. In other words, the bulk of attention was directed toward a country that doesnt even have as many people as India has Facebook users. Furthermore, the companys misinformation classifiersautomated systems trained on machine learning to detect and take down posts with harmful falsehoodswere not developed enough to recognize and take action on millions of multilanguage disinformation posts that proliferated across Indian feeds.

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The result was that Facebook simply missed huge amounts of misinformation, even as it kept touting the ability of its internal tech to detect and take down false news. The company invested in uncovering hate speech written in Hindi and Bengali, two of Indias major languageseven though the country as a whole has 22 constitutionally recognized languages and hundreds more dialects. These limitations also meant that Facebook was ill-equipped to stop the virtual human trafficking of Indian domestic workers. Not to mention, there were spillover effects from inaction in other countries: Myanmars ethnic cleansing of Rohingya Muslims was amplified by the network, and thousands of refugees streamed to India, where theyve faced further persecution.

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Facebook also clearly took sides when it came to Indian violence.

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When Narendra Modi was elected Indias prime minister in 2014, there were plenty of reasons for any democracy-favoring thought leader to be concerned: his oversight of fatal Hindu-Muslim riots when he was chief minister of the state of Gujarat, his historic ties to the Hindu nationalist Rashtriya Swayamsavek Sangh organization, and his political partys use of Islamophobia as a campaign tactica successful one for the far-right Bharatiya Janata Party, many of whose members stemmed from the RSS. Yet none of this dissuaded Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg from literally embracing Modi during his first years in power. After all, Modis campaign made ample use of Facebook and other social networks, and the new PM was eager to work with Silicon Valley firms to modernize Indias internet experience.

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But as I noted just earlier this year, reports of BJP-linked cells using Facebook and WhatsApp to spread toxic rhetoric and lies surfaced as early as 2016; more such troll operations proliferated in the subsequent years, both within and without election contexts, and led directly to lynchings of religious minorities and riots stirred up by aggrieved Hindus. As revealed by the leaked documents, Facebook did carry out thorough probes surveying the rot of Indian social media content; an employee who spearheaded the research noted that Ive seen more images of dead people in the past three weeks than Ive seen in my entire life total.  [The feed] is a near constant barrage of polarizing nationalist content, misinformation, and violence and gore. According to the Wall Street Journal, investigators zoned in on two BJP-linked Hindu nationalist organizations they pinpointed as key drivers of mass Islamophobia, the RSS and the Bajrang Dal, and recommended that the latter be banned. But it didnt happen, as the company worried that removing the Bajrang Dal would anger Modi. The Journal revealed last year that the then-head of Facebook India, Ankhi Das, opposed applying hate speech rules to Hindu nationalists and BJP politicians who aimed to spark violenceperhaps due to the fact that she herself was ideologically sympathetic to the countrys Hindu nationalists. (Das stepped down by October 2020.)

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We now know for sure that Facebook was fully aware of the RSSs anti-Muslim crusade and did nothing to address the root issue. And even with this level of appeasement, Modi and his government kept turning their wrath on Facebook for its belated banning of a few Hindu nationalist figures who advocated for killing Muslims. It didnt matter that Facebook had also removed fake information pages started by opposition politicians and the Pakistani military; any reprimanding of the BJP crossed the line. This year, Modis government has cracked down the hardest it ever has on Facebook and other social networks, forcing them to remove posts unfavorable to the BJP, condemning them for spreading content supposedly offensive to fundamentalist Hindus, and threatening to fully expel them if they dont follow new, restrictive rules drawn up by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology meant to ensure compliance. The message is clear: If Facebook doesnt follow the BJPs Hindu nationalist dogma to a T, it can kiss its largest market goodbye.

Ironically, the end result of Facebooks willingness to tolerate political leaders religious violence and whittling of democratic institutions may be a further emboldened BJPwhich was catapulted to power in part by the influence of Facebookthat could decide it no longer has a need for the worlds most powerful social network. Thatd be one hell of a way to end this partnership.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
This article is part of the Free Speech Project, a collaboration between Future Tense and the Tech, Law, & Security Program at American University Washington College of Law that examines the ways technology is influencing how we think about speech.

Welcome to Source Notes, a Future Tense column about the internets information ecosystem.

Its fair to say Beijing is on icy terms with Wikipedia. Back in 2015, Beijing deployed its Great Firewall to block the Chinese-language version of Wikipedia, and it began blocking all language versions of the site in 2019a few months before the 30th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square protests.

But according to some Wikipedia editors from mainland China, the vitriol did not end in 2019. On Sept. 13, the Wikimedia Foundation, the San Francisco-based nonprofit organization that supports Wikipedia, banned seven Wikipedia users and removed administrator powers from 12 users who were affiliated with a group known as Wikimedians of Mainland China. These WMC editors were demoted or banned after reports that they were seeking to control Wikipedia and skew its content toward a hard-line Chinese nationalist point of view.

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In a statement following the bans, Maggie Dennis, the foundations vice present of community resilience and sustainability, said that the action came as the result of infiltration concerns and followed a yearlong investigation, calling the case unprecedented in scope. The foundation did not rule out the possibility that the problematic users were linked to the Chinese government but noted that this was not the focus of its investigation. We needed to act based on credible information that some members (not all) of that group [WMC] have harassed, intimidated, and threatened other members of our community, including in some cases physically harming others, in order to secure their own power and subvert the collaborative nature of our projects, Dennis told Slate in an email.

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So far, media coverage of the bans has differed wildly between pro-Beijing and Western sources. According to the Global Times, a daily tabloid newspaper controlled by the Chinese Communist Party, the incident amounted to a well-calculated suppression of mainland Chinese editors. Meanwhile, the BBC noted in an article that the threat of capture by the CCP was a risk that threatened the very foundations of Wikipedia.

Although the WMC has said the claims against them are nothing but slander, its not unreasonable to suspect that the CCP cares a lot about Wikipedia. Governments and politicians are increasingly interested in how facts are represented on Wikipedia because of the authority and popularity of the source around the world, Heather Ford, an associate professor of digital and social media at the University of Technology Sydney, said in an email. In my experience, its not only the government but also government supporters who understand the centrality of Wikipedia as an authority and attempt to influence its representations.

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The foundation noted that it was not able to disclose the specific evidence leading to the bans due to legal concerns and the potential risks to user safety. To better understand the circumstances leading up to this unprecedented action, I connected directly with several contributors to Chinese Wikipedia. Its a group that includes editors based in mainland China, who describe themselves as pro-Beijing or at least OK-with-Beijing. The mainland Chinese editors doubted that any of their colleagues were directly affiliated with the CCP and instead claimed that their colleagues were patriots who believed that Chinas perspective was not well-represented on the world stage. I also connected with users based in Taiwan and Hong Kong, many of whom are understandably reticent to speak with the press. Last year, China introduced its National Security Law in Hong Kong, which reduced Hong Kongs judicial autonomy and made it far easier to punish demonstrators and dissidents. At least 154 people have been arrested under the NSL since its passage. The Hong Kong police allow citizens to report suspicious persons by email, SMS, or WeChat message, which critics say makes it easy to snitch on political opponents. At the same time, tensions between China and Taiwan are the worst they have been in 40 years, according to Taiwans defense minister, and Taiwanese citizens are concerned that upsetting Beijing could trigger retaliation against friends and family living on the mainland. (To protect their privacy and safety, Slate is not attributing any comments made by Chinese Wikipedia editors by name.)

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Its worth exploring why Chinese netizens care about Wikipedia when they already have Baidu Baike, a Chinese-language collaborative encyclopedia owned by the Chinese tech giant Baidu. Whereas Chinese Wikipedia has only about 1.2 million articles, Baidu Baike has more than 24.5 million entries. As a Chinese tech company, Baidu censors its content in accordance with government requirements. While Wikipedia is nonprofit, Baidu Baike is unashamedly commercial. Its the kind of site that hawks opportunities for content collaboration with celebrities.

But according to Wikipedians, the biggest problem with Baidu Baike is that it publishes a lot of garbage. Unlike Wikipedia, Baidu Baike does not limit entries to notable topics or require that its information be supported by reliable sources. In some cases, Baidus commercialization of misinformation has led to tragedy. In 2016, the student Wei Zexi died after receiving an experimental treatment recommended by a Baidu health care page. Baidu recommended the alternative medicine because of payments to appear higher in search result rankings, even though chemotherapy and surgery were more effective treatments for the disease.

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One former Chinese Wikipedia editor told me that over the past few years there has been a defection of volunteer editors leaving Baidu Baike to join Chinese Wikipedia because the contributors wanted the privilege of working on a higher-quality internet encyclopediaone that also carries a great deal of international power. As Ford pointed out, Wikipedias facts are extracted by powerful platforms like Google as well as Apples and Amazons digital assistants.

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But joining the cause of Chinese Wikipedia is not an easy endeavor. In order to access Wikipedia from mainland China, users must use a virtual private network or proxy connection to circumvent the countrys Great Firewall. These applications reroute the server and allow the user to visit sites that would normally be blocked for traffic coming from that persons IP address. VPNs are relatively common in China with roughly 31 percent of the countrys internet users having tried them, according to a 2017 study. Chinese legal experts say that VPN technology itself has a murky legal status. It is clear, however, that the police can punish people for visiting web content that is perceived as going against the nation. In October of last year, Chinese police seized a person named Zhang Tao for using an anti-censorship browsing tool to illegally visit the Wikipedia website for information.

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Once a mainland Chinese user is able to access Wikipedia using a VPN, there is still an additional step required before they can edit and make changes to the site. Thats because Wikipedia blocks the IP addresses of common VPN providers from editing the site in order to prevent vandalism. Consider this example: If a vandal is continuously causing trouble on Wikipedia, like the person who graffitied the site with swastikas earlier this year, an admin will block that users IP address to prevent further damage. But if VPNs were allowed without restriction, then that user could simply hop to a new IP address, jumping servers around the world while continuing to wreak havoc.

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There are good reasons to generally prohibit VPN users from editing Wikipedia. Yet mainland Chinese Wikipedia editors told me that the policy presents a Catch-22: You cant access Wikipedia without a VPN because of the Great Firewall, but you cant edit Wikipedia due to the fact that youre accessing the site by VPN. The workaround for this is called an IP block exemption. Essentially, a new Chinese Wikipedia user accessing the site from the mainland would need to email one of the sites volunteer administrators and request that their account be cleared to edit with a VPN. (Remember how these exemption requests are reviewed by Chinese Wikipedias administrators; that becomes important later.)

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The key point is that someone editing Wikipedia from mainland China is likely very motivated to do so. The question is what type of user would be most willing to take the risk and jump through all of those hoops: a pure free-knowledge enthusiast, a Chinese propagandist, or someone in between?

Skeptical Wikipedians believe that the groundswell of mainland Chinese editors reflects increased interest by the CCP. A 2019 paper published by Chinese academics Li-hao Gan and Bin-Ting Weng declared that due to the influence by foreign media, Wikipedia entries have a large number of prejudiced words against the Chinese government. The authors proposed a call to action: China urgently needs to encourage and train Chinese netizens to become Wikipedia platform opinion leaders and administrators  [who] can adhere to socialist values and form some core editorial teams.

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That sounds a little like the Wikimedians of Mainland China. WMC describes itself as the only group representing the Wikimedia movement in mainland China. The group has held offline meetups in Beijing and Shenzhen and claimed, as of September, to have more than 300 members.

The Wikimedia Foundation has 134 user groups around the world who have gone through a formal application process and represent countries from Azerbaijan to Vietnam. But unlike those user groups, WMC has never been formally recognized by the foundation. Some sources said the U.S.-based foundation was not legally allowed to support WMC due to Chinas strict nongovernmental organization law. Others noted that the WMC had not signed legal documents provided by the foundation agreeing to protect the anonymity of its members.

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Although they were never an officially sanctioned user group, WMC members nonetheless went to battle to set the Hong Kong narrative on Wikipedia. One controversial Wikipedia page was the article about the Yuen Long attack. During the 201920 Hong Kong protests, an armed mob dressed in white began attacking civilians at a subway station with steel rods, injuring at least 45 people who were coming from pro-democracy protests. Hongkongese editors argued that the event should be called a terrorist attack intended to intimidate Hong Kongs democracy activists. They included content about the slow police response, citing sources such as the pro-democracy paper Apple Daily, which was forced to close this year. Pro-Beijing editors argued that the Apple Daily was too biased, described the attackers as a rural faction, and advanced the position of Chinese-owned state media, which claimed the violence was stirred up by the pro-democracy side.

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In this case, the edit wars had consequences beyond the net. As reported by the Hong Kong Free Press and Wikipedias community newspaper, the Signpost, users in the mainland China Wikipedia group threatened to report their Hong Kong peers to the citys national security police hotline. We should report those from the Hong Kong user group, wrote one user on the WMCs QQ messaging app. Nice idea, replied another. After reviewing the complaints, the foundation found that some Wikipedia users had been physically harmed due to conduct from WMC users. But when I asked one of the banned WMC admins about the allegations, they claimed that the Hong Kong Wikipedia editors were simply being Karens.

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Some of the mainland Chinese editors who were banned or desysopped (Wikipedia jargon for having their administrator privileges removed) were administrators on Chinese Wikipedia, meaning that they were elected by their peers on Wikipedia to have special user rights, including the ability to block and unblock user accounts, and to lock certain pages from editing. A CCP hard-liner administrator could create a lot of problemsfor instance, by fully immobilizing a pro-democracy Hong Kong editors account so that they are unable to add content about the 201920 protests.

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Remember, too, that in order for any user to edit Wikipedia from mainland China, they must request an IP block exemption that is reviewed and approved by an administrator. But if administrator positions have been captured by the pro-Beijing camp, as has been alleged, then what type of users are they more likely to approve? Furthermore, whats to prevent these admins from passing email addresses and other personal information about Wikipedians straight to the CCP?

A spokesperson for WMC was furious that Chinese Wikipedia administrators had been banned, writing, The administrators who were desysopped and globally banned were elected fair and square through democratic processes.  As it turns out, those [Western] people who were cheerleading for democracy are the most anti-democratic of all. In their eyes, its only democratic when the vote goes their way; when a candidate they dislike won the election, they want to stop the steal. 

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What type of user would be most willing to take the risk and jump through all of those hoops: a pure free-knowledge enthusiast, a Chinese propagandist, or someone in between?

Its worth acknowledging the bizarre reality that Donald Trumps election discourse has become a talking point on Chinese Wikipedia. That said, the comparison is not appropriate. Rather than encouraging get-out-the-vote efforts, Wikipedia has a rule against canvassing for votes in order to influence the outcome of a discussion in a particular way, and the mainlanders allegedly broke these canvassing rules. A January 2020 admin election saw record turnout after members of the WMC decided that the candidate was not sufficiently pro-Beijing. It seems likely that the WMC encouraged its members to vote against a candidate who was critical of the CCPrallying so-called meatpuppets, new accounts who did not actually contribute much to the encyclopedia other than voting no as directed.

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The situation on Chinese Wikipedia calls to mind Karl Poppers book The Open Society and Its Enemies. As a general rule, democratic elections are a desirable institutional mechanism to enact reforms and elect new leaders. But if the elected leaders adopt totalitarian tendenciesin this case, blocking new contributors or arranging for dissenters to be physically harmedthen the democratic system has shifted from openness to control.

After the foundation took action against the WMC users, the Taiwanese Wikipedia community issued a statement saying the decision was long overdue. We need to rebuild an inclusive wiki that welcomes everyone from all places who wants to contribute to Chinese language Wikipedia in good faith, the statement read. Many people have felt unsafe for years, so restoring a shared sense of comfort is likely to take some time.

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Recent events suggest the Chinese government would prefer to limit Wikipedias international reach as much as possible. On Oct. 5, China was the lone objector in blocking the Wikimedia Foundation from joining the U.N.s World Intellectual Property Organization. The Beijing delegate argued that Taiwanese Wikipedians were carrying out political activities that may undermine Chinas sovereignty and territorial integrity in violation of its One China policy.

According to one of the banned admins from the mainland China group, the members of WMC are planning to make a hard fork, creating a separate internet encyclopedia using Chinese Wikipedia as a base (something that is permitted under the sites open license). The new Chinese encyclopedia is likely to be named after a reference to ancient Chinese literature, perhaps referencing Confucius or Sun Tzu, and would ideally provide higher-quality information than Baidu Baike.

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When we spoke, the banned WMC admin was quite passionate that, even if the new project was not technically part of Wikipedia, the fork was still the most pragmatic way to advance Wikipedias mission of providing access to free knowledge to every person on the planet. It sounds nice, except that theres a big catch: In order for the project to be greenlit by Chinese authorities, it will need to meet Chinese censorship standards. For instance, the new encyclopedia would focus largely on Chinese history pre-1945, before the roughly four-year civil war in China between the Communists and the Nationalists. Any more recent historical wiki pages would need to be rewritten to meet the CCPs requirements.

A utilitarian might say that the ends justify the meansthat is, that the goal of providing a free internet encyclopedia to more than 1 billion Chinese citizens justifies the creation of a special, censored version. The problem is that a defining principle of Wikipedia is that the project is not censored. If the project bends toward the will of government forces, then it loses its character as an encyclopedia that aims for neutrality. It becomes a propaganda tool, a source that rips out pages as the CCP demands.

Future Tense is a partnership of Slate, New America, and Arizona State University that examines emerging technologies, public policy, and society.
ARCHIVED - Campaign against scooters on pavements launched in Spain



Fines for riding an electric scooter on the footpath in Spain can reach 200 euros

The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) has launched a new campaign to raise awareness of proper electric scooter use in a bid to reduce the number of accidents involving pedestrians. Running from Monday October 25 until November 7, the initiative will include increased surveillance to ensure that personal mobility vehicles such as scooters and bikes are not used on footpaths.

With buses throughout Madrid, Valencia , Sevilla and Malaga carrying slogans and radio and social media getting in on the action, the DGT hopes that regional authorities will be more confident in issuing fines to people breaking the rules.

Since January 2, scooter users must comply with the rules of the road just like other drivers and, as well as being banned from pavements, they are not allowed to travel on highways or through urban tunnels.

During the course of the campaign there will be additional surveillance of the movement of scooters and bicycles, with fines of up to 200 euros being doled out for serious infractions.

As scooters are now classed as all-purpose vehicles, their users are subject to the same alcohol rates as other drivers and driving under the influence of drugs is strictly prohibited. In addition, only one person is allowed on a scooter at any time, and the use of headphones, mobile phones or any other device while operating the vehicle is a fineable offence.

Image: Archive
ARCHIVED - Overnight hotel stays in Spain triple



In September, there were seven times more foreign hotel guests in Spain

While overnight hotel stays in Spain have been steadily increasing all year thanks to a relaxation of travel restrictions, up until recently, Spanish nationals accounted for the vast majority of the trips. Overall, the month of September saw hotels host 25.6 million stays, more than triple the turnover of the same month in 2020 (up 212.1%).

According to data released by the National Institute of Statistics on Monday October 25, while people residing in Spain still accounted for 46.1% of stays last month, the number of foreign travellers increased by 657.7% - thats more than seven times the number of the previous year.

While the sector is undoubtedly making a good recovery, hotel trips are still down 31.7% compared to pre-pandemic 2019, due largely to the decline in overnight stays made by foreign tourists (down 47.2%). In addition to the number of trips increasing, people are now also choosing to stay in hotels longer, with the average break now lasting 3.1 nights, an increase of 33.2%.

As of last month, 75.6% of hotel establishments were reopened, with the Balearic Islands, Andalucia and the Canary Islands the most popular destinations overall. For people residing in Spain, Andalucia, the Valencian Community and Catalonia topped the list.

After a temporary dip, travellers from the UK appear to be making their way back to Spain and British tourists accounted for 18.5% of all hotel stays in September. This puts the United Kingdom only behind Germany, who made up 24.3% of tourists, but ahead of France (10.5%), the Netherlands (7.4%) and Belgium (5.0%).

Image: Archive
It should be replaced with something tasteful that continues the Snezienka tradition, the mayor of the borough opined.

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The long-standing frame of the former restaurant Snezienka in Bratislava's touristic locality Zelezna studnicka was removed. In the past few days, the remaining construction waste was removed while the area was cleansed and covered with soil.

City Forests of Bratislava welcomed the decision.

We perceive really positively that one of the biggest ruins, which uglified Zelezna Studnicka for many years, was removed, Marek Pava, deputy director of the organisation said, as quoted by the TASR newswire. Such buildings in serious despair are not only safety risks but also aesthetically decrease the recreational value of the forest park.

What will replace Snezienka?

The city organisation is looking for a project with a minimal burden on the traffic around Zelezna studnicka, adding that people want a break from cars in the forest park.

A green area within the forest, with benches, a gazebo and possibly a playground for children would be acceptable, Pava said, as quoted by TASR.

Mayor of Nove Mesto Rudolf Kusy said that it is too soon to make promises, but the demolished area should be replaced with something tasteful that will continue the Snezienka tradition.

A place where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, Kofola or a good lunch with family or friends. A place where you can rest, repair your bike and where children can play, he wrote on Facebook. But no villas or a hotel.

Company wanted to build a hotel

In an effort to revamp the area where Snezienka once stood, the borough launched an urbanistic architecture competition in 2019 that should have brought new ideas to make the locality more attractive. The competition was evaluated last year and the jury picked a winner out of 13 projects.

Zelezna Studnicka to get a facelift Read more

The ruins of Snezienka were rented in 2006 to the company Snowdrop for 99 years, and the company wanted to build a hotel there. When the leaseholder stopped paying rent, the municipality withdrew from the contract and started to take care of the ruins by itself.

The construction, made of ferroconcrete and steel poles, has been dilapidating and rusting for many years.
https://sputniknews.com/20211025/news-black-hole-a-year-of-war-shows-why-un-needs-to-monitor-human-rights-in-western-sahara-1090206383.html

News Black Hole: A Year of War Shows Why UN Needs to Monitor Human Rights in Western Sahara

News Black Hole: A Year of War Shows Why UN Needs to Monitor Human Rights in Western Sahara

Its been one year since two titanic events shook Western Sahara: the renewal of war with Morocco after 29 years of peace and recognition of Moroccos claim to... 25.10.2021, Sputnik International

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un mission for the referendum in western sahara (minurso)

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On November 13, 2020, the Popular Front for the Liberation of Saguia el-Hamra and Rio de Oro (POLISARIO) declared an end to the ceasefire that had kept the peace in Western Sahara for 29 years after Moroccan troops forced a civilian protest at the southern Guerguerat border crossing to disperse. The crossing is located in a narrow neutral strip of land monitored by the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO), and had been shut down for weeks as protesters objected to what they said would aid in the extraction of the desert lands resources against the will of the Saharawi people.Less than a month later, on December 10, then-US President Donald Trump announced US recognition of Moroccos claim to rule Western Sahara, which the monarchy calls its southern territory. The move, which bucked decades of US foreign policy as well as UN resolutions, helped facilitate Moroccos addition to the Abraham Accords and its normalization and formalization of long-underground ties with Israel, as Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Sudan had done earlier that year.Several Saharawi activists who spoke with Sputnik said this trend highlights the need for MINURSO to add a human rights monitoring component - something the peacekeeping mission uniquely lacks - and that the UN must work hard to earn the trust of the Saharawi people if it expects them to lay down their arms and return to a negotiating table that for 29 years has failed to yield a promised independence referendum.UN Has Become Part of the ProblemThe people of Western Sahara lost their trust in the UN a very long time ago, so the UN must work very hard to regain that trust, Omeima Abdeslam, Polisarios representative in Geneva, Switzerland, told Sputnik.They have noticed that the UN and the Security Council are no longer credible partners to achieve peace in Western Sahara and have become part of the problem by blocking implementation of the annual resolutions calling for the right of Saharawi people to self-determination.Abdeslam hailed a decision by the European Union Court of Justice last month that struck down an EU-Morocco trade deal because it didnt have the consent of the Saharawi people to extract resources from Western Sahara, in particular its rich fisheries, which form much of the EU fishing fleets haul. The ruling specifically noted that Polisario is the legitimate representative of the Saharawi people.The decision could impact a major part of Moroccos much-touted green energy transition: a program to build extensive wind farms along the Western Saharan coast. Rabat has pledged to source 50% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2030, but Western Sahara Research Watch noted in a report published on Monday that 47.2% of Moroccos wind power and 32.64% of its solar power could come from Western Sahara by then - something the group called greenwashing occupation. Last month, US-based General Electric became the latest corporation to invest in the project.Abdeslam further noted that Polisario has made many calls to boycott products and companies that are coming or working in Western Sahara in coordination with the Moroccan regime, highlighting the historical effectiveness of peaceful boycotts, including those against Apartheid South Africa and the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel that was initiated by Palestinian activists.MINURSO Must Track Human RightsActivists inside and outside of Western Sahara have long pointed to the absence of a human rights monitoring instrument in MINURSO as effectively giving a free hand to Moroccan police.Ambassador Sidi Omar, who represents Polisario at the United Nations in New York, told Sputnik that the November 2020 violation of the ceasefire was a very serious and unprecedented development that the Security Council should address as a matter of urgency in its upcoming discussions on MINURSO, scheduled for Wednesday, October 27.Criticizing what he called a hands-off approach by the UNSC, Omar urged them to introduce and agree on substantive changes in its upcoming resolution on Western Sahara to deal seriously with the new situation on the ground, including provid[ing] MINURSO with the necessary mandate and operational capacity to monitor and report on the human rights situation in the Territory.Although the Biden administration has pledged to remain actively engaged on the Western Sahara issue, it still hasnt reversed Trumps declaration of support for Moroccos claims. Omar said if this situation continues, it will not only cast doubt on US neutrality vis-a-vis the question of Western Sahara. It will also raise the question of whether the United States could continue to play a constructive and credible role in the UN peace process.Thus, without US leadership at the UN pushing for a lasting peace, which includes MINURSOs independence referendum, the war will continue and the situation will continue to worsen.Omar isnt alone in arguing this, though: since Trumps declaration, numerous veteran US diplomats have criticized the decision, including Trumps former national security adviser John Bolton and a former secretary of state, James Baker, who called it an astounding retreat from the principles of international law and diplomacy that would destabilize a region where al-Qaeda* and Daesh* are making dangerous inroads.Earlier this month, 10 US senators signed a letter to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urging him to prioritize engagement with the Moroccan government about human rights abuses, including calling for the release of political detainees and an end to the harassment and threats against critics of the Moroccan government.We urge you to increase the Departments focus on human rights abuses against Sahrawi activists in Western Sahara and Morocco by including a mandate to monitor human rights and ensuring the right for self-determination is maintained in the renewal of the United Nations Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara (MINURSO) at the end of this month, the senators wrote.An Imperious Matter: Monitoring Human RightsMahjoub Maleiha, head of external relations for the Collective of Saharawi Human Rights Defenders in Western Sahara (CODESA), told Sputnik that a UN human rights mandate is an imperious matter because Western Sahara is an occupied territory under a severe military siege.While MINURSO does have limited cooperation with the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), it is extremely cursory in nature. A report on the previous calendar year by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres published on October 1 noted that the OHCHR had not made a single visit to Western Sahara in more than six years.However, Guterres report noted that OHCHR is concerned by reports of restrictions on the freedoms of expression, peaceful assembly and association in Western Sahara, and noted that the Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders had called on Morocco in July to stop targeting human rights defenders and journalists.I reiterate my call to the parties to respect, protect and promote the human rights of all people in Western Sahara, including by addressing outstanding human rights issues and enhancing cooperation with OHCHR and the United Nations human rights mechanisms, and to facilitate their monitoring missions. Independent, impartial, comprehensive and sustained monitoring of the human rights situation is necessary to ensure the protection of all people in Western Sahara, Guterres said.Morocco Given A Green LightMaleiha said the US recognition had given Morocco a green light to continue and intensify its brutality in the territory.CODESA has compiled extensive documentation to back up its claims. At a September forum titled No Sahrawi Left Behind, Maleiha enumerated some of their findings, which include 2 cases of killing; a miscarriage caused by an attack by Moroccan authorities; 2 cases of rape; 93 cases of kidnapping and torture; more than 200 cases of arbitrary detention; and 90 cases of house arrest or sieges. He noted that precise numbers are difficult, due to fears of reporting and being re-targeted by the authorities.He also noted there are 48 political prisoners who are detained in Moroccan prisons outside Western Sahara, which he said is a violation of international law.Hassanna Abba, vice president of the League for the Protection of Saharawi Political Prisoners Held Within Moroccan Jails, said at the forum that prisoners are denied all normal amenities, including visits and education, and that Covid had doubled their suffering by ending visitation rights and due to the confiscation of property sent by their families.He said that Saharawi prisoners have conducted 26 hunger strikes in the last year, most of which were 24-hour or 48-hour strikes, but also including a 69-day hunger strike by journalist Mohamed Lamine Haddi. Haddi has been held in Tiflet-II prison since 2010 after he was arrested and accused of terrorism for reporting on the dispersal of the Gdeim Izik student protest camp by Moroccan police. He is sentenced to 25 years.Other journalists have faced similar repression for reporting on protests. Nazha El-Khalidi, a reporter for Equipe Media, was arrested in 2016 and again in 2018. She said at the September forum that Morocco had instituted a total media blockade on the territory by turning back all the foreign press that are trying to visit the territory.El-Khalidi described the situation of Sultana Khayya, a long time Saharawi human rights activist who has been under house arrest for a year, with electricity and water cut. The journalist said Khayya had been tortured and raped by police, who also gave her COVID-19. She has previously suffered severe eye damage due to beatings by police.

STABOU Youssef Le Likoud se sert du roi marocain pour arriver a destabiliser l'Algerie ensuite il s'en debarrassera comme Khadafi ! Merci Sarkozy ! 0

WhatTheFishIsThis UN really needs a Strong and Effective Management Council supporting the President, in order to identify and correct Distortions in it's numerous Agencies. 0

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morocco, western sahara, journalists, human rights, un mission for the referendum in western sahara (minurso)
https://sputniknews.com/20211025/us-pauses-delivery-of-700-million-in-emergency-economic-aid-to-sudan-1090207454.html

US Pauses Delivery of $700 Million in Emergency Economic Aid to Sudan

US Pauses Delivery of $700 Million in Emergency Economic Aid to Sudan

The United States has condemned the actions of the Sudanese Military after they arrested civilian government officials and other political leaders Sunday night... 25.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-25T23:48+0000

2021-10-25T23:48+0000

2021-10-26T00:58+0000

sudan

us

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Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a statement, "The United States strongly condemns the actions of the Sudanese military forces." Ned Price, the US State Department Spokesperson, also delivered a statement on the Sudanese military takeover that halted the country's transition to a democratic civilian-led state. The Sudanese military has arrested civilian government officials and political leaders, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok. The US in an attempt to coax the military to release all civilian government officials, refrain from violence in the event of protests, and restore the civilian-led transitional government has decided to pause funds headed to the East African nation. Protesters quickly took to the streets in defiance of the military coup and to show their support for the civilian government. Sudan had been ruled by an interim civilian-military government, called the Sovereign Council, since 2019. The military had ousted Omar al-Bashir following months of protest against his rule. Sudan had been trending towards a democratic civilian government following al-Bashir's ousting. In recent weeks, negotiations between the military and the civilian-led government had soured and mass protests occurred on Thursday, October 21st demanding full civilian rule. Sudan's Prime Minister had said that full civilian rule should be in place by November 17th.The coup appears to be an attempt by the Sudanese military to prevent full civilian rule. It remains to be seen if another power-sharing arrangement can be struck.

NthrnNYker59 Fascist amerika doesn't LIKE it when their little stooges are overthrown, do they ? 4

vot tak The government ousted in the coup were pro israeli. It remains to be seen if the coup leadership maintains that degrading quislingship or scraps it. 4

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https://sputniknews.com/20211026/150-people-arrested-in-dark-web-bust-europol-says--1090213486.html

Europol: 150 People Arrested in Dark Web Bust

Europol: 150 People Arrested in Dark Web Bust

The dark web is a term that describes parts of the World Wide Web that hide your identity and location, with users communicating through encrypted messages. It... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T08:14+0000

2021-10-26T08:14+0000

2021-10-26T12:04+0000

europol

world

criminals

dark web

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150 people have been arrested as part of an international operation against criminals active on the dark web, Europol has announced. Officers seized more than $26.7 million in cash as well as over 230 kilograms of drugs and 45 units of weapons.The majority of the detained individuals come from the United States (65), followed by Germany (47), the UK (24), the Netherlands (4), France (3), two people from Switzerland, and one from Bulgaria. Most of those arrested were salespeople and classified as "high value targets", Dutch outlet Pointer reported, citing documents it obtained.The arrests were made possible after Europol earlier this year took DarkMarket, the worlds largest dark web marketplace used by half a million users, offline. Following the bust, law enforcement obtained information that helped them make the latest arrest.The operation, dubbed Dark HunTOR, was conducted jointly by Europol and Eurojust, an EU agency dealing with judicial cooperation in criminal matters among member states. The detained individuals are said to have sold tens of thousands of illegal goods on the dark web.Rolf van Wegberg, a cybercrime researcher at the Delft University of Technology, says the latest operation suggests that Europol has adopted a new strategy against criminals. The dark web is a term that describes parts of the Internet that cant be accessed by regular web browsers or search engines. Due to the fact that users can hide their identity and location, the dark web has become popular among criminals such as human traffickers, drug cartels, producers of child porn, as well as sellers of stolen and looted antiques.

ASmith_ Seems everyday that Internet Users think merely using Tor based applications makes them able to buy drugs and weapons on the Dark Web with impunity. The State in many cases are the ones tasked with delivering those drugs and guns to an address. 0

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https://sputniknews.com/20211026/afghan-soil-will-not-be-used-against-china-assures-taliban-leader-after-meeting-with-wang-yi-1090222063.html

Afghan Soil Will Not Be Used Against China, Assures Taliban Leader After Meeting With Wang Yi

Afghan Soil Will Not Be Used Against China, Assures Taliban Leader After Meeting With Wang Yi

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Taliban* leaders in Doha, Qatar, on 25-26 October, the first high-level talks since the group... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T17:25+0000

2021-10-26T17:25+0000

2021-10-26T17:25+0000

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qatar

doha

wang yi

chinese foreign ministry

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terrorism

east turkestan islamic movement (etim)

india

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Expressing gratitude for China's humanitarian assistance, Maulvi Amir Khan Muttaqi, the foreign minister of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), the abbreviation used by the Taliban when referring to its government, has urged Beijing to address a range of issues to boost bilateral ties. Muttaqi said that the Afghan side would protect the interests of China."Afghanistan's soil will not be used against China", Muttaqi said during Tuesday's meeting with Wang Yi in Doha. Wang Yi welcomed "recent positive changes in Afghanistan and highlighted historic Afghan-Sino ties", adding that China would work based on the mutual interests of both countries and never interfere in Afghanistan's internal affairs.The Xinhua News Agency reported that Wang Yi sought assurances from the Taliban to make a "clean break" with the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), a group Beijing alleges is inciting separatism in Xinjiang.Muttaqi called on Beijing to address Afghan traders' issues and facilitate the export of onyx marble, precious plants, dried apricots, almonds, dried figs, pistachios, and particularly pine nuts.The land-locked country supplies much of the fruits and nuts eaten in Pakistan and India, which account for about 80% of Afghanistan's exports. Traders have been facing a severe cash flow shortage since the Taliban's seizure of power in mid-August resulted in an abrupt halt to most donor funds.The Taliban's leaders are making efforts to receive international recognition in meetings with foreign officials to keep the country running efficiently.The Afghan side also called on China to provide educational opportunities for Afghan students in China. China grants scholarships to Afghan students.*The Taliban is a terrorist organisation banned in Russia and many other nations.

WhatTheFishIsThis China will find it much easier to Collaborate Peacefully with the Afghanistan Taliban Council than US Politicians. 4

vot tak "Afghanistan's soil will not be used against China" ... And it doesn't look like any of the other countries in the region will harbor israeloamerican terrorists. You lost, israel. Without your trump quisling covering your wide arse with his fake withdrawals, you got booted in reality. :-D 3

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qatar, doha, wang yi, chinese foreign ministry, india, terrorism, east turkestan islamic movement (etim), india
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/after-fiasco-in-us-amazon-reportedly-signs-contract-for-cloud-service-with-uk-intelligence-agencies-1090229013.html

After Fiasco in US, Amazon Reportedly Signs Contract for Cloud Service With UK Intelligence Agencies

After Fiasco in US, Amazon Reportedly Signs Contract for Cloud Service With UK Intelligence Agencies

After Fiasco in US, Amazon Reportedly Signs Contract for Cloud Service With UK's Intelligence

2021-10-26T18:50+0000

2021-10-26T18:50+0000

2021-10-26T18:50+0000

us

amazon

uk

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US tech giant Amazon struck a multimillion deal in 2021 with the British spy agencies - Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ), MI5, and MI6  to host vast amounts of their data on its AWS cloud service, the Financial Times has reported citing four anonymous sources. The deal is estimated to cost between 500 million and one billion pounds ($688 million to $1.38 billion) over the next decade, but its details are to be kept secret, the newspaper said.The new platform will allow the said spy agencies, as well as other UK government bodies, such as the Ministry of Defence, to quickly exchange information, intelligence, run cross-database searches in mere hours instead of days and weeks, the FT's sources said. The cloud storage is also reportedly expected to boost the use of artificial intelligence in espionage. Amazon's AWS cloud service declined to comment on the reported deal for the FT, while GCHQ, which championed its signing, responded that it would not discuss its business relationships with technology suppliers.The newspaper indicated that the deal raises sovereignty issues since a single US-based company will be developing the cloud storage for a vast volume of classified information for the UK intelligence community. However, the sources told the FT that all the data will be physically kept on UK soil and Amazon will not have access to it.The reported contract follows Amazon's failure to secure a lucrative deal with the Pentagon to build the cloud infrastructure for its JEDI project  a cloud platform for instant data exchange between intelligence, military, and other government bodies and agencies. Following several rounds, Amazon lost the high-value bid to Microsoft.However, Jeff Bezos' company did not let the situation go, filing a lawsuit that challenged the choice on the grounds that former US President Donald Trump visibly favoured Microsoft over Amazon. The allegation was based on Trump's criticism of Bezos, who owns the newspaper The Washington Post that wrote critical articles about the former president.In the end, under the pressure of lawsuits, the Pentagon scrapped the JEDI project for good announcing that a new more ambitious project with different requirements will be launched in its place. The exact start date for a new bidding process is yet to be determined, but the Pentagon has already hinted that the list of companies allowed to participate will be limited due to the new project's high standards and requirements, which most companies won't be able to meet anyway.

https://sputniknews.com/20210706/jedi-is-dead-all-hail-new-jedi-pentagon-kills-its-cloud-computing-project-only-to-start-new-one-1083320885.html

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us, amazon, uk
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/angry-emojis-only-1090232966.html

Angry Emojis Only!

Angry Emojis Only!

"The Facebook Papers" is a collaborative US mainstream media endeavor that seeks to parse the internal Facebook documents leaked by Frances Haugen, a former... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T22:54+0000

2021-10-26T22:54+0000

2021-10-26T22:54+0000

social media

facebook

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As media reports continue to document allegations of Facebook's safety issues, the Washington Post is now reigniting a conversation about the reaction algorithm adopted by the company's social media platform. According to the report, content with an emoji reaction was assigned a value five times higher than a posting with a simple 'like'. Haugen originally highlighted those concerns during her testimony before a US Senate panel earlier this month, noting that the algorithm contributes to Facebook's "system that amplifies division, extremism, and polarization." Nick Clegg, Facebook's vice president of global affairs, reportedly issued a memo to employees on Saturday, warning workers that they may have to brace "for more bad headlines in the coming days." The former UK politician now turned social media executive claimed that reports that reference the company's internal leaks would likely "contain mischaracterisations of our research, our motives, and where our priorities lie." Documents cited in "The Facebook Papers" were originally produced by Haugen as part of her original pre-testimony whistleblower complaint filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

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social media, facebook
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/assistant-director-who-worked-with-baldwin-on-rust-was-fired-from-film-in-2019-over-gun-incident-1090218203.html

Assistant Director Who Worked With Baldwin on Rust Was Fired From Film in 2019 Over Gun Incident

Assistant Director Who Worked With Baldwin on Rust Was Fired From Film in 2019 Over Gun Incident

On 21 October, Alec Baldwin shot dead cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza with a prop gun during the filming of the upcoming... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T11:36+0000

2021-10-26T11:36+0000

2021-10-26T11:36+0000

society

working conditions

safety

accidental shootings

alec baldwin

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Assistant director Dave Halls, who worked with Alec Baldwin on the movie "Rust" was fired from a film in 2019 over a gun incident, CNN reported, citing the movies production company. According to the outlet, the incident occurred in New Mexico during the filming of Freedoms Path. Halls was removed from the set after a prop gun discharged and injured a crew member.The individual was evaluated by an on-set medic and was advised to seek medical treatment, Rocket Soul Studios said.Complaints against Dave Halls have been made in the past. Maggie Goll, a prop maker and licensed pyrotechnician, told CNN that she filed a complaint with the executive producers of the "Into the Dark" horror film over Halls' conduct. She claims he didnt hold safety meetings and failed to announce the presence of a firearm on the film set.Ms Goll also told CNN that when another pyrotechnician lost consciousness on the set, Halls asked her to continue with the shoot. In another instance, Halls insisted on continuing filming a scene while a storm hit, despite the fact that wires were exposed to the rain and electrical lights were touching mud, Goll claimed.Another crew member of "Into the Dark" corroborated her statements, noting that Halls did hold safety meetings, but they were short and the assistant director himself had a dismissive attitude towards safety.Affidavit and Accusations of NegligenceAn affidavit released on Sunday shed more light on the tragic incident that occurred on 21 October. According to the document, assistant director Dave Halls was the person who gave Alec Baldwin the revolver that went off as the actor was rehearsing a scene, during which he was supposed to draw the firearm from a holster and point it at the camera. The bullet hit cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in the chest and also injured director Joel Souza.Souza said that Halls shouted "cold gun" after bringing the revolver to the set, an announcement used in the film industry to indicate that the weapon is safe and unloaded.The affidavit states that armourer Hannah Guttierez-Reed had left three prop guns on a cart outside the film set, from which he chose one and gave it to Baldwin.Reports say that weeks before the tragedy occurred, some crew members used prop guns to practice shooting and used real bullets while doing this. At one point, a prop gun fired two rounds during the filmingSerge Svetnoy, the chief electrician as well as a friend of Halyna Hutchins who stood next to her when the incident occurred, said the tragedy was the result of negligence and unprofessionalism, hinting that producers were cutting corners by hiring people "who are not fully qualified for the complicated and dangerous job".The Los Angeles Times writes that hours before the tragedy occurred, six crew members left the film set in protest against poor working conditions and safety concerns, including gun safety.

Brit26 The whole country is just a bunch of lawless cowboys, so what do you expect. 2

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https://sputniknews.com/20211026/at-tanf-base-iran-may-have-backed-drone-attack-on-us-in-syria-american-officials-allege-1090211995.html

At-Tanf Base: Iran May Have Backed Drone Attack on US in Syria, American Officials Allege

At-Tanf Base: Iran May Have Backed Drone Attack on US in Syria, American Officials Allege

Last weeks attack on at-Tanf, which hasn't been claimed by any group, came in the wake of airstrikes against several locations near the ancient Syrian town of... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T08:12+0000

2021-10-26T08:12+0000

2021-10-26T08:12+0000

us

israel

iran

airstrike

news

attack

syria

world

daesh

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The AP news agency has quoted unnamed US officials as claiming that Iran could have resourced, facilitated, and encouraged last weeks drone attack on the at-Tanf base in southern Syria, where American servicemen are stationed.The remote base, located along the M2 Baghdad-Damascus highway near Syria's border with Iraq and Jordan, has been held by American troops since early 2016, when the base was used to train so-called "moderate rebels" fighting against the Syrian government of President Bashar Assad.According to the sources, at least five Iranian UAVs laden with explosive charges were involved in the attack, which purportedly hit both US service members and Syrian opposition forces.The claims come amid reports that the attack was conducted by Syrias allies, an apparent nod to Iran-backed groups, who allegedly retaliated against an earlier airstrike on the Syrian town of Palmyra.A spokesperson for the US Central Command, in turn, told Sky News Arabia last week that initial assessments suggested "Iran-backed militias" had attacked the at-Tanf base.This followed the command of the Allied Operations Room of Syria, the pro-Syrian, anti-Daesh* alliance of forces that includes advisers from Hezbollah and Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), pledging to respond in kind to the Palmyra attack.At least one Syrian soldier was reportedly killed and three others injured in what Damascus claimed was an Israeli airstrike on Palmyra that took place on 14 October. The Israeli military did not comment on the issue.The Biden administration has staged several retaliation airstrikes against Shiite militias in Syria since taking office in January, claiming the right of self-defence after rocket attacks were launched against US forces or bases housing American troops.Damascus has repeatedly underscored that the presence of US troops in Syria is illegal because they were never invited for deployment and the US does not have a relevant mandate from the UN Security Council. The Pentagon justifies the deployment of the US contingent in Syria by asserting that they are there to ensure the "enduring defeat" of Daesh* terrorists.*Daesh (ISIL/ISIS/Islamic State), a terrorist group outlawed in Russia and many other countries.

https://sputniknews.com/20211014/syrias-anti-daesh-allies-vow-to-respond-to-alleged-israeli-us-aggression-over-palmyra-1089924626.html

Question All The Americans don't understand English, they only open their ears when they're riddled with bullets. The nation that brags, bullies and murders more than any other has never won a war,perhaps intentionally. Because they steal, lie and destroy while blowing off big arrogant boasts. Amercan, you are ILLEGALLY occupying Syrian Territory-GO HOME!! 6

NthrnNYker59 So what ? The fascists back the zioterrorist's attacks on Iranian advisers in Syria ----- the fascists back the Saudi's attack on Iran's allies in Yemen....... Glass houses, war criminals ....... Glass houses. 2

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us, israel, iran, airstrike, news, attack, syria, world, daesh, base, palmyra
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/canadian-prime-minister-trudeau-unveils-new-cabinet-1090224966.html

Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau Unveils New Cabinet

Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau Unveils New Cabinet

Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau Unveils New Cabinet

2021-10-26T15:04+0000

2021-10-26T15:04+0000

2021-10-26T16:39+0000

canada

justin trudeau

cabinet

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Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has presented his new cabinet of ministers after winning the elections earlier in September. He named Melanie Joly as the new Minister of Foreign Affairs and Anita Anand became the new Minister of Defence succeeding Harjit Sajjan in the post.Trudeau also appointed Steven Guilbeault, a long-time green activist, as the new Minister of Environment and Climate Change. Guilbeault thus replaced Jonathan Wilkinson, who received the portfolio of the Minister of Natural Resources.Francois-Philippe Champagne, former minister of foreign affairs, replaced Navdeep Bains as Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry and Registrar General of Canada. Bains announced plans to leave this office back in January 2021.The cabinet reshuffle follows Trudeau's third election victory as he ran for prime minister again in September 2021. However, his Liberal Party once again failed to achieve a parliamentary majority losing to the Conservatives despite gaining five seats compared to the 2019 election results. Hence, Trudeau was forced to form a new minority government despite apparently hoping to form a majority government following the 2021 snap elections.

https://sputniknews.com/20210921/canadian-opposition-conservatives-leader-concedes-defeat-in-election-1089258782.html

babai Canada is a joke of a developed country; most Indian origin cabinet ministers apart from India itself. 3

Hampar Tokatlian Trudeau has to kiss Sikh and Ukie arses to get elected. 1

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canada, justin trudeau, cabinet
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/comedian-dave-chappelle-breaks-silence-on-controversy-over-his-transphobic-special-1090226013.html

Comedian Dave Chappelle Breaks Silence on Controversy Over His 'Transphobic' Special

Comedian Dave Chappelle Breaks Silence on Controversy Over His 'Transphobic' Special

The 48-year-old has come under intense criticism for comments he made in his latest special "The Closer" on Netflix during which he joked about the LGBTQ+... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T16:22+0000

2021-10-26T16:22+0000

2021-10-26T16:22+0000

society

davechappelle

discrimination

lgbtq

transphobia

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Dave Chappelle has spoken for the first time about the controversy surrounding his latest special, which was branded "transphobic" by the LGBTQ+ community. In a video posted on his Instagram, the three-time Grammy Award winner said that he is not against the LGBTQ+ community, but is concerned about freedom of expression."I did not blame the LGBTQ community for any of this s**t. This has nothing to do with them. It's about corporate interests and what I can say and what I cannot say", he said.The 48-year-old comedian then revealed that after the controversy started film companies and movie festivals started "cancelling" him and refused to screen his upcoming documentary. At the same time, Chappelle stressed that he will not be "bending to anybodys demands".Gadsby is an Australian queer comedian and a queer woman.Dave Chappelle also dismissed reports saying that he allegedly refused to meet with transgender employees of Netflix, who staged a walkout in protest against his special.'The Closer'Chappelle's latest special "The Closer" is part of a series of shows he released on Netflix, all of them became some of the company's most viewed stand-up programmes. While in previous specials the comedian touched on a number of issues from US politics to his private life, in "The Closer" Chappelle focused on his relationship with the LGBTQ community, including their discontent with some of his material.At one point, Chappelle even joked about rapper DaBaby, who has come under harsh criticism over his homophobic remarks and was dropped by major music festivals.Later in the special, the comedian joked about transgender individuals' genitals, gender-neutral pronouns, and cheekily called himself a TERF (trans-exclusionary radical feminist) before expressing sympathy for British writer JK Rowling over criticism she received for her comments about the eradication "the concept of gender". During the show, the comedian repeated several times that he supports the LGBTQ community.Despite this, the special caused a torrent of negative comments on social media as well as from Netflix employees. Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos has defended Chappelle amid the wave of criticism, saying the company works hard to support "creative freedom". He stressed that Chappelle's comments do not amount to hate speech and do not "directly translate to real-world harm".

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society, davechappelle, discrimination, lgbtq, transphobia
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/could-russias-zeus-tem-be-a-gamechanger-for-indias-space-ambitions-1090227079.html

Could Russia's Zeus TEM Be a Gamechanger for India's Space Ambitions?

Could Russia's Zeus TEM Be a Gamechanger for India's Space Ambitions?

Although the international community has accelerated its space ambitions, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has significantly decreased its... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T19:02+0000

2021-10-26T19:02+0000

2021-10-27T02:12+0000

nasa

joe biden

satellites

india's mars orbiter spacecraft (isro)

narendra modi

vladimir putin

india

space

indian space research organization (isro)

russian federal space agency roscosmos

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Amid a rising competition between China and the US in terms of space programmes, experts have put their weight behind Russia's Zeus Transportation and Energy Module, a deep space mobility platform commonly called a space tug, for ISRO that may enhance the space agency's capabilities in future interplanetary space missions.Zeus, equipped with a megawatt-class electric propulsion system, is suited for deep space flights from one orbit to another. Under development since 2010, the spacecraft's preliminary design is expected to be finished by 2024.ISRO's missions have been delayed for various reasons, including the ongoing testing of domestic technologies related to telemetry and tracking of satellites, and satellite communication links. By 2025, ISRO plans to launch interplanetary missions to Mars, the Sun, Moon, and Venus. ISRO chief K Sivan said in February of this year that a second mission to Mars will only be undertaken after the launch of Chandrayaan-3, India's upcoming Moon mission."Any sustained human presence will only be possible with constant resupply missions delivering payloads to the prospective Indian Space Station or other spacecraft. [The] Zeus Transportation and Energy Module can deliver some of these payloads by tugging Indian cargo spacecraft or contracted payload missions from other vendors", Pareek and Dr. Andrey Gubin from Far East Federal University, Vladivostok added in a recent research publication.At present, ISRO can only deliver four tonnes of payload to a geostationary transfer orbit and 10 tonnes to lower Earth orbit. Roscosmos claims Zeus will be able to deliver 10 tonnes of payload to the Moon in 200 days."India can diversify its payload delivery capabilities and amplify its in-orbit logistics by contracting the space mobility and in-orbit power source capabilities of Zeus", Pareek stated.ISRO is currently working on a reusable launch vehicle with a cryogenic and semi-cryogenic engine. It has already had success with cryogenic and reusable launch vehicle technology.The US: Elephant in the Room?On 24 September, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Joe Biden agreed to expand their partnership in space. New Delhi also decided to work with Washington to finalise a "Space Situational Awareness Memorandum of Understanding" by the end of the year, facilitating data sharing and sharing of services to ensure the long-term sustainability of outer space.These announcements are considered a significant shift in India's orientation. It had maintained at every platform that space resources are a "common heritage to mankind" and space issues should be addressed through the United Nations."India's involvement with Zeus may result in complications in the trajectory of India-US space cooperation. NASA may deny India access to key space technologies and services for fear of Intellectual Property (IP) leaks and strict operational secrecy concerns", Pareek said.Nonetheless, India has not made any announcement about whether it will join America's Artemis Accord or not. The Artemis Accord, joined by 12 countries, including Japan, Australia, the UAE, and the UK, is an agreement for lunar exploration and beyond, with the participation of both international partners and commercial players. Cooperation with Russia on Zeus will also assist India's ambition to strengthen its military space command, which is negatively impacted by ISRO's civilian programme as it exhausts most of the agency's resources. Taking a slew of progressive measures since last year, the Narendra Modi government has devised policy so that public sector laboratories in the space sector will focus on research and development. At the same time, manufacturing and commercial activities will be done by private entities.

https://sputniknews.com/20210825/nasa-chief-says-us-in-space-race-with-china-wants-beijing-as-partner-1083712503.html

https://sputniknews.com/20211008/russias-space-chief-warns-musks-starlink-satellites-could-hijack-cruise-missiles-mid-flight-1089765311.html

Dicksonrp The collies CANNOT be trusted. Their best friends are USA (United Snakes of Aipac) and isrealhell. Russia should cooperate with China 1

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nasa, joe biden, satellites, india's mars orbiter spacecraft (isro), narendra modi, vladimir putin, india, space, indian space research organization (isro), russian federal space agency roscosmos, mars, moon, india
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/florida-gov-desantis-says-anthony-fauci-should-be-held-accountable-for-unethical-experiments-1090210344.html

Florida Gov. DeSantis Says Anthony Fauci Should Be Held Accountable for 'Unethical' Experiments

Florida Gov. DeSantis Says Anthony Fauci Should Be Held Accountable for 'Unethical' Experiments

The statement comes as US non-profit organisation the White Coast Waste Project accused Fauci of spending thousands of taxpayer dollars on "cruel" experiments... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T07:03+0000

2021-10-26T07:03+0000

2021-10-26T16:01+0000

us

florida

medical experiments

dogs

anthony fauci

unethical experiments

scientific experiments

ron desantis

coronavirus

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has harshly attacked the US' leading expert on infectious disease Dr Anthony Fauci, saying he and other employees of the National Institutes of Health should be fired for funding "despicable" experiments on dogs.The Republican governors statement echoes that of around two dozen lawmakers, who wrote a letter to Dr Fauci last week asking the medical expert to comment on allegations that the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) had spent thousands of dollars on experiments that involved 44 beagle puppies being fed to parasite-carrying insects. Their vocal chords were allegedly removed so that scientists could work without listening to the barking. Nancy Mace, US representative for South Carolinas first congressional district, called the purported tests "cruel".This is a reprehensible misuse of taxpayer funds, Ms Mace wrote in a letter co-signed by 23 lawmakers.Accusations of Lying to CongressFlorida Governor Ron DeSantis also attacked Dr Anthony Fauci over funding of gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology. Recently, it became known that the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases had partnered with the Chinese institute to study diseases, including coronaviruses in bats. Testifying before Congress, the top medical expert denied that US-funded research involved gain-of-function  a process during which scientists artificially engineer viruses, making them more transmissible. This is done to assess what risks viruses may pose to humans in the future.However, last week the National Institutes of Health revealed that a "limited experiment" was conducted in order to see if "spike proteins from naturally occurring bat coronaviruses circulating in China were capable of binding to the human ACE2 receptor in a mouse model".The revelation led some Republican lawmakers to accuse Fauci of lying to Congress, with Kentucky Senator Rand Paul calling for Fauci to be criminally investigated. Governor DeSantis said that the United States has to end gain-of-function research, which he described "very hazardous" and "unethical". "You cant have mad scientists running around playing God like this", he said. The Republican believes that Fauci and other employees of the National Institutes of Health who approved the research should be fired.Why Does it Matter and How Has Fauci Responded?The world is in the second year of the coronavirus pandemic, but the origins of the disease, which according to Johns Hopkins University has left almost five million people dead, remain a mystery. A report by the World Health Organisation said the disease originated in bats then jumped to an intermediary animal before infecting humans. Another hypothesis suggests that the outbreak of COVID-19 could have started due to a lab leak. This idea was at first dismissed as a conspiracy theory, but during the spring there was a change in attitude towards the lab leak scenario after US media reported, citing undisclosed documents written by the US Intelligence Community, that three employees of the Wuhan Institute of Virology had sought medical care for a disease with symptoms similar to COVID-19 three weeks before the Chinese authorities reported the first case of the infection.Dr Fauci has categorically dismissed accusations of lying to Congress and said that it was "molecularly impossible" for the novel coronavirus to have originated from the US-funded research. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said the expert and his colleagues have been "entirely truthful".

Korz-53 Dr Anthony Fauci is a criminal fascist supremacist; Him funding the Chinese lab in China that is working on the COVID 19 WMD proves that. 2

Norman Peterson There is a special place in hell for people like Fauci... 2

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https://sputniknews.com/20211026/german-president-hands-merkel-notice-about-end-of-her-term-1090226383.html

German President Hands Merkel Notice About End of Her Term

German President Hands Merkel Notice About End of Her Term

German President Hands Merkel Notice About End of Her Term

2021-10-26T16:00+0000

2021-10-26T16:00+0000

2021-10-26T17:01+0000

europe

germany

angela merkel

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Steinmeier also handed similar notices to other members of Merkel's government during a ceremony at the Bellevue Palace, the official residence of the president.Earlier in the day, Steinmeier asked Merkel to continue her activities as chancellor until a successor is appointed, the presidential office said. The chancellor attended the first session of a new Bundestag elected on 26 September.So far, talks are continuing between the Social Democrats (SPD), the Greens, and the Free Democrats (FDP) on how to build a new government coalition. Hence, a new chancellor and a successor to Merkel, who remained in office for 16 years, is yet to be determined. Merkel's Cristian Democratic Union (CDU) and their Bavarian allies Christian Social Union (CSU) were not included in the talks on the planned coalition government after they lost 49 seats or almost 9% in the Bundestag in the September 2021 elections.

https://sputniknews.com/20210928/german-chancellor-candidates-in-focus-as-tough-coalition-talks-loom-1089471529.html

Douglas Right Communist yiddish merkel 0

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europe, germany, angela merkel
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/indian-minister-accuses-top-cop-of-extortion-over-shah-rukh-khans-son-drug-case-1090212218.html

Indian Minister Accuses Top Cop of Extortion Over Shah Rukh Khan's Son Drug Case

Indian Minister Accuses Top Cop of Extortion Over Shah Rukh Khan's Son Drug Case

Aryan Khan, son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, was arrested by India's anti-drug agency, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), on 2 October after a party... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T11:59+0000

2021-10-26T11:59+0000

2021-10-26T11:59+0000

mumbai

india

shahrukh khan

india

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A minister in India's Maharashtra state has attacked anti-drug agency officer Sameer Wankhede, accusing him of extortion and targeting Bollywood stars who do not pay up. On Tuesday morning, the state minister for Minority Affairs, Nawab Malik, claimed that Wankhede had illegally tapped phones. The phone-tapping charges are the latest in a string of attacks that Malik has launched since the drug case against Aryan Khan was filed. Malik has already accused NCB officer Wankhede of forging his birth certificate and faking documents to get a government job as well as describing him as a "bogus officer"."We have all the proof of how bogus Wankhede is. His father was bogus, he himself is bogus and his family members are bogus," Malik said earlier in the week, claiming that Wankhede will be sacked from his job and be in prison within a year. Wankhede has dismissed all the charges levelled by Malik, saying that it is simply a vendetta. He said the only reason Malik is smearing him is because the NCB had arrested the minister's son-in-law Sameer Khan recently in a separate drugs case. Sameer Khan was arrested on 13 January by the NCB for alleged possession of drugs and dealing with commercial quantities of drugs, a crime that carries a maximum sentence of 20 years. He was granted bail by a special court last month while he awaits trial.

https://sputniknews.com/20211008/cruise-ship-drugs-case-indian-court-denies-bail-to-aryan-khan-and-friends-1089767939.html

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mumbai, india, shahrukh khan, india
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/indias-top-probe-agency-reportedly-arrests-naval-officers-in-kilo-class-submarine-leak-1090219714.html

Indias Top Probe Agency Reportedly Arrests Naval Officers in Kilo-Class Submarine Leak

Indias Top Probe Agency Reportedly Arrests Naval Officers in Kilo-Class Submarine Leak

The Indian Navy operates 16 submarines which include eight Kilo-class which originally came from Russia. Since these submarines are around two decades old, the... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T15:12+0000

2021-10-26T15:12+0000

2021-10-26T15:25+0000

indian navy

torpedo

kilo class

3m-54 klub

corruption

india

submarine

snooping

kilo-class submarine

india

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The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), India's top anti-corruption watchdog, made some high-profile arrests on Tuesday because confidential information concerning the modernisation of the Kilo-class submarine has been reportedly leaked. Government sources told Indian news agency ANI that the CBI arrested a Mumbai-based serving Indian Navy officer and two retired naval officials on Tuesday. Sources said that these officials have been arrested as they shared administrative and commercial information related to a submarine project last month.The CBI has been questioning some of the serving officers who were in contact with this arrested official, ANI reported.The Indian Navy has also been carrying out its own investigation into the leak.The Indian Navy signed a $750 million contract with Russias shipbuilder Zvezdochka in 2018 to modernise four Kilo-class submarines. The boats - also designated as a Sindhughosh class submarine - is fitted with Klub-S anti-ship missiles and are mainly intended for anti-shipping and anti-submarine operations in relatively shallow waters. One boat was scheduled to be upgraded at a Russian facility and the remaining three will be upgraded at an Indian shipyard.

https://sputniknews.com/20210625/navy-deploying-warships-in-indian-ocean-amid-peak-in-tensions-with-china-indian-defence-minister-1083238876.html

india

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indian navy, torpedo, kilo class, 3m-54 klub, corruption, india, submarine, snooping, kilo-class submarine, india
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/le-pen-says-hungarys-orban-backs-launch-of-hard-right-alliance-in-coming-months-1090230400.html

Le Pen Says Hungary's Orban Backs Launch of Hard-Right Alliance in Coming Months

Le Pen Says Hungary's Orban Backs Launch of Hard-Right Alliance in Coming Months

PARIS, October 26 (Sputnik) - French presidential candidate Marine Le Pen said on Tuesday she had secured the Hungarian prime ministers support of a... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T19:53+0000

2021-10-26T19:53+0000

2021-10-26T19:53+0000

viktor orban

marine le pen

europe

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Viktor Orbans Fidesz and Le Pens National Rally signed a declaration of 16 right-wing parties in July which accused the EU mainstream of undermining European values but stopped short of announcing a formal alliance. Le Pen also has the support of Italys League and Austrias Freedom Party.Le Pen arrived in the Hungarian capital to meet with Orban six months before the French presidential election, where she will run against mostly leftist contenders. She promised Orban during a press conference that she would seek to "reorient" what she sees as a leftist-leaning EU to promote regionalism.

Thomas Turk Last French election was 'stolen' from Le Pen aka US. Next will also. EU not stoopid, eh? 0

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viktor orban, marine le pen, europe
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/leningrad-region-gov-urges-council-of-europe-to-actively-engage-youth-in-governance-politics-1090226285.html

Leningrad Region Gov. Urges Council of Europe to Actively Engage Youth in Governance, Politics

Leningrad Region Gov. Urges Council of Europe to Actively Engage Youth in Governance, Politics

St. Petersburg (Sputnik)  Leningrad Region Governor Alexander Drozdenko, heading the Russian delegation at the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T16:06+0000

2021-10-26T16:06+0000

2021-10-26T16:06+0000

russia

council of europe

europe

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A representative of the regional administration's press service told Sputnik that the head of the Leningrad Region presented the Youth Government of the Leningrad Region and the "Governor's Talent Pool" competition, held for the second time this year, as an example."The authorities should actively use youth platforms, including TikTok, to build relationships in the form of open discussions, debating relevant topics, carrying out joint actions, and other activities", Drozdenko said.The governor of the Leningrad Region launched the "Governor's Talent Pool" competition in 2019. Its mission is to identify promising and proactive personnel for the civil service and municipal service in the Leningrad Region. The competition is held at two levels: municipal and regional. In 2021, the competition was held in five categories: "Comfortable Urban Environment, Urban Improvement", "Modern Education", "Social Reform", "Ecology, Waste Management", and "Economics and Finance". Following an examination of applications, 215 contestants (131 women, 84 men) were admitted to participate. The participants ranged in age from 22 to 54 (average 34). In 2021, 25 contestants reached the final, the press service noted.

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russia, council of europe, europe
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/media-reveals-photos-of-alleged-arrested-mossad-agents-in-turkey-1090229836.html

Media Reveals Photos of Alleged Arrested Mossad Agents in Turkey

Media Reveals Photos of Alleged Arrested Mossad Agents in Turkey

Media Reveals Photos of Alleged Arrested Mossad Agents in Turkey

2021-10-26T19:16+0000

2021-10-26T19:16+0000

2021-10-26T19:16+0000

middle east

turkey

israel

mossad

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The Sabah Daily newspaper has published the photos of alleged Mossad spies arrested in Turkey earlier this month. According to the newspaper, the partially-blurred mugshots of 15 men of Arab origin belong to Israeli intelligence agents who carried out Mossad operations in Turkey.According to the newspaper, the arrested agents were divided into five groups of three men each. Some were said to have been involved in information collection  mostly related to Palestinians who oppose Israel. The Israeli spy agency was reportedly interested in Palestinian and Syrian students getting an education in the defence sphere, as well as in facilities that Turkey provided for the Palestinians.Some of the agents worked as emissaries of Mossad and conveyed meetings with its representatives in foreign countries, such as Germany, Croatia and Kenya, Sabah Daily added.The alleged agents, all of Arab descent, were arrested on 7 October in a covert operation. Part of the footage showing the arrest was later broadcast by TRT.

https://sputniknews.com/20210719/ex-mossad-head-cohen-suspected-of-allegedly-sharing-classified-info-with-flight-attendant---report-1083416226.html

vot tak Nice catch, turkey. A major blow to the zionist ops inside turkey, no doubt. 12

WhatTheFishIsThis Vermin cannot live when Exposed to Sunlight and Publicity. 12

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turkey

israel

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Tim Korso https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0a/02/1080648312_311:168:1773:1631_100x100_80_0_0_5eb98a42f89fd860368dcd2ae2d9e403.jpg

Tim Korso https://cdnn1.img.sputniknews.com/img/07e4/0a/02/1080648312_311:168:1773:1631_100x100_80_0_0_5eb98a42f89fd860368dcd2ae2d9e403.jpg

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middle east, turkey, israel, mossad
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/nato-boss-says-door-for-finnish-membership-open-as-polls-register-spike-in-animosity-toward-russia-1090208842.html

NATO Boss Says Door for Finnish Membership Open as Polls Register Spike in Animosity Toward Russia

NATO Boss Says Door for Finnish Membership Open as Polls Register Spike in Animosity Toward Russia

Only a third of Finnish respondents have a positive opinion of Russia, compared with 63 percent nine years ago. Furthermore, nearly 60 percent of respondents... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T05:30+0000

2021-10-26T05:30+0000

2021-10-26T05:36+0000

news

military & intelligence

europe

jens stoltenberg

finland

nato

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During his two-day visit to Finland, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the door remained open for Finland to join the military alliance.Furthermore, Stoltenberg called Finland a close partner, citing interoperability and major exercises and lauding Finland's sturdy defence that is important for common security.But of course there is a difference between being a member and not being a member, Stoltenberg stressed.President Sauli Niinisto has previously stated that Finland joining NATO is a possibility, and noted during a press conference that relations between the Nordic nation and NATO have continued to develop in recent years.We have a lot of common understandings about how we can guarantee the most important thing in ordinary people's lives, that is peace, Niinisto said.This is also the first time that members of the North Atlantic Council, NATO's principal political decision-making body, have visited Finland in an official capacity. The visit happened at a time NATO-Russia ties are at their nadir since the end of the Cold War, the secretary general noted.Earlier this month that NATO expelled eight members of Russia's mission to the alliance, labelling them undeclared intelligence officers. In response, Russia announced that it would close its NATO mission in Brussels and withdraw diplomatic accreditation from NATO's Moscow offices.At the same time, however, Stoltenberg emphasised that NATO believes in dialogue.According to the Finnish Foreign Policy Institute, defence cooperation has become the most important driver of Finnish external affairs. The body noted an ever-more extensive cooperation binding Finland to the Western security system and stressed that the waning of Finnish military non-alignment has further accelerated.Earlier, Russian Ambassador to Finland Pavel Kuznetsov lamented the fact that some countries have to be afraid of Russia. At the same time, the ambassador underscored that the advance of NATO's military infrastructure closer to the Russian borders will force Moscow to take appropriate measures.Meanwhile, a recent poll held by market research firm Taloustutkimus on behalf of the Finnish think tank Eva, the Finnish Business and Policy Forum, indicated a growing animosity toward Russia. About a third of Finnish respondents had a positive opinion of Russia, whereas 45 percent held a negative opinion of the country.By contrast, a similar survey in 2012 found that wholly 63 percent had positive attitudes and just 19 percent had negative attitudes towards Russia, which means that the favourable attitudes had fallen by around 30 percent and negative attitudes grown by 26 percent in a matter of nine years, Yle reported.Furthermore, nearly 60 percent of respondents considered Russia as a military threat. Negative attitudes towards Russia were more common among the younger respondents, which Eva's research manager Ilkka Haavisto interpreted as a sign of lasting change, whereas 65-year-olds were the most positive demographic.

Jorma Myyrylainen In the same time majority of us Finns are still against joining NATO. Mr. Niinisto, Finnish Foreign Policy Institute (UPI), Finnish Foreign Policy Institute (EVA) and Finish MSM are extremely pro-NATO. They are in NATO rut as we ordinary Finns say. This NATOism is toxic for us. 12

Hess The Finish people need to assess their interests and live in peace. Joining NATO will destroy their peaceful coexistence. NATO is a criminal enterprise Finland should be refrain from becoming an accomplice. 11

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Igor Kuznetsov

Igor Kuznetsov

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Igor Kuznetsov

news, military & intelligence, europe, jens stoltenberg, finland, nato
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/ousted-sudanese-prime-minister-hamdok-reportedly-returns-home-1090229673.html

Ousted Sudanese Prime Minister Hamdok Reportedly Returns Home

Ousted Sudanese Prime Minister Hamdok Reportedly Returns Home

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, who was ousted in a military coup, is returning home, the broadcaster Al Hadath reported, citing... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T18:57+0000

2021-10-26T18:57+0000

2021-10-26T19:05+0000

sudan

africa

coup

prime minister

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According to the broadcaster, servicemen are escorting him.Earlier, the chairman of the transitional Sovereignty Council of Sudan, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said at a press conference that Hamdok was at his, al-Burhan's, home and everything was fine with him. Al-Burhan also said that Hamdok would be able to return to his own home when the situation calms down and he was no longer threatened.The Sudanese prime minister, along with several other cabinet officials, was detained earlier on Monday by the country's armed forces. According to Sudan's information ministry, the prime minister refused to endorse what he deemed a military coup.He cited conflicts between political forces in the country as the reason for what happened, saying that the Sudanese armed forces felt as if they were the targets of hostility over the past week. Following Monday's unrest, the Sudanese Civil Aviation Authority announced on Tuesday that flights to and from Khartoum are suspended from 26 October to 30 October.

https://sputniknews.com/20211026/sudans-military-leader-abdel-al-burhan-lays-blame-for-events-in-country-on-political-forces-1090219527.html

Dicksonrp HANG HIM for his betrayal of Palestine!!! 0

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sudan, africa, coup, prime minister
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/queen-elizabeth-ii-forced-to-give-up-walking-her-dogs-as-doctors-advise-her-to-rest-report-says-1090223199.html

Queen Elizabeth II Forced to Give Up Walking Her Dogs as Doctors Advise Her to Rest, Report Says

Queen Elizabeth II Forced to Give Up Walking Her Dogs as Doctors Advise Her to Rest, Report Says

On 20 October, the 95-year-old monarch had to scrap her upcoming visit to Northern Ireland after doctors advised her to rest for a few days. That same day she... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T14:26+0000

2021-10-26T14:26+0000

2021-10-26T14:26+0000

queen elizabeth ii

uk royal family

uk

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Queen Elizabeth II has been forced to give up walking her dogs as doctors have advised her to rest following a hospital admission, the Daily Mail has reported, citing its sources. The monarch has two corgis and one dorgi (a cross breed between Welsh corgi and Dachshund) and according to insiders her daily promenades with them are a "tonic" that has helped the Queen to stay healthy in her nineties.The dogs are now currently being walked by her staff the sources told the Daily Mail, adding that the Queen has been taking doctors' orders seriously.Buckingham Palace said in a statement that the monarch has been in "good spirits" since she returned to Windsor Castle following last week's admission to the hospital. The statement also said that the Queen has been undertaking "light duties". UK media outlets reported that Wednesday was the Queen's first hospitalisation in 8 years. October has been a busy month for the 95-year-old monarch. The Queen had ten royal engagement in 19 days. During the last one on 18 October, she hosted a reception at Windsor Castle held as part of the Global Investment Summit. Among the guests was Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and US climate envoy John Kerry.The Queen is expected to attend the United Nations Climate Change Conference with other members of the Royal Family. The event will be held from 31 October to 12 November in Glasgow, Scotland.

Holger H. who cares? 3

Jackal Please die soon, you evil old witch. 1

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Max Gorbachev

Max Gorbachev

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Max Gorbachev

queen elizabeth ii, uk royal family, uk
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/rightwing-chilean-newspaper-sparks-outrage-after-tribute-article-to-hermann-goring-1090232659.html

Right-Wing Chilean Newspaper Sparks Outrage After Tribute Article to Hermann Goring

Right-Wing Chilean Newspaper Sparks Outrage After Tribute Article to Hermann Goring

Chile's main conservative newspaper has published a tribute to Nazi war criminal Hermann Goring, prompting a rebuke from the German Embassy and sparking fury... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T21:57+0000

2021-10-26T21:57+0000

2021-10-27T04:27+0000

latin america

chile

nazi

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El Mercurio published a full-page illustrated article found in the society section of the paper on Sunday, marking the 75th anniversary of Goring's death.The Gestapo chief - who committed suicide hours before he was due to be executed after his Nuremberg trial - was allegedly Hitler's most loyal supporter, known to have played a prominent role in organising the Nazi police state in Germany and establishing concentration camps for what he deemed as "corrective treatment" for opponents.The full-page illustrated article detailed the general's career and his love life, speaking only briefly of his crimes. It has been accused of serving as an "apology for Nazism" by Chile's Jewish community.Boris Van Der Spek, a journalist and editor-in-chief from Chile Today News, shared a tweet Sunday showcasing the full page profile published by El Mercurio with a caption that read: "With all but criticism and lots of admiration for the nazi. The Jewish community in Chile, (most) presidential candidates, and even the German Embassy in a rare statement strongly condemn the piece".Another writer, Lili Loofbourow, critiqued the article as a "bizarre piece of propaganda" through a series of tweets, saying that the article described Goring's wife Emmy as "sweet", "naive", and always with him and Hitler such that she was practically a "First lady of the Reich"."To give you a sense of the tone... apparently they were 'magnificent hosts'", Loofbourow added.The German Embassy didn't waste any time speaking out against the published article through Twitter."That leaves not the slightest room to justify or minimise morally and politically - and much less in legal terms - its nefarious role during the Nazi regime and in the Holocaust".After receiving a letter describing the piece as a "direct affront" to Holocaust victims, the Chilean newspaper said it "deeply regretted" that the article on Goring had been interpreted in that way.

latin america

chile

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latin america, chile, nazi
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/rishi-sunak-reportedly-rules-out-cutting-levy-on-household-energy-bills-as-fuel-crisis-hits-britain-1090209612.html

Rishi Sunak Reportedly Rules Out Cutting Levy on Household Energy Bills as Fuel Crisis Hits Britain

Rishi Sunak Reportedly Rules Out Cutting Levy on Household Energy Bills as Fuel Crisis Hits Britain

On Monday, UK Labours Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves called on the government to stick to then-Foreign Secretary Boris Johnsons 2016 Brexit referendum... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T05:57+0000

2021-10-26T05:57+0000

2021-10-26T05:57+0000

boris johnson

budget

fuel

review

brexit

bills

michael gove

uk

rishi sunak

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UK Chancellor Rishi Sunak will not announce a cut to value added tax (VAT) on household energy bills in his Budget and Spending Review scheduled for Wednesday, the Daily Mail has cited unnamed Treasury sources as saying.The current 5% VAT rate on these bills sets households back by around 60 ($82) a year, and lifting it mays cost the Treasury about 1.6 ($2.2) billion, according to the Mail.The insiders claims follow Labour's Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves urging Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities Michael Gove to deliver on a promise they made during the 2016 Brexit referendum campaign.At the time, then-Foreign Secretary Johnson and then-Secretary of State for Justice Gove pledged to scrap VAT on energy bills if the UK left the European Union.In an interview with the Mail, Reeves said that she wonders why Johnson and Gove have failed to live up to their promise, adding, what more evidence do you need to cut VAT domestic energy bills?Reeves also accused government ministers of wasting billions of pounds of public money over the past two years, arguing that the government is not showing the respect for taxpayers' money that I think it deserves.It is a lack of understanding about how families, pensioners and businesses are struggling right now with rising costs. I'm not sure if ministers fully comprehend the difficult decisions that families and businesses are having to make at the moment, the Labour shadow chancellor underlined.15 Mln UK Households Hit by Soaring Energy Bills Reeves spoke after at least 15 million households in England, Wales, and Scotland faced higher domestic energy bills in early October under the UK Office of Gas and Electricity Markets' (Ofgem) latest price cap.The bills increased by 139 ($193) from 1,138 ($1,583) to a record high of 1,277 ($1,777) a year, according to the British energy watchdog.Referring to the price cap, Adam Scorer, chief executive at the UK fuel poverty charity National Energy Action, asserted that the massive devastating increases in energy prices will drive over 500,000 more households into fuel poverty, leaving them unable to heat or power their homes".The remarks came as a significant increase in wholesale gas prices in the UK resulted in the collapse of nine suppliers around the country in September. The closure was reportedly caused by the suppliers' failure to deliver on price promises to their customers, and the suppliers being uninsured against the rising costs.

https://sputniknews.com/20211024/from-3bln-on-skills-revolution-to-5bn-on-health-research-sunak-previews-budget-spending-pledges-1090173692.html

https://sputniknews.com/20211004/uk-fuel-crisis-british-military-starts-to-deliver-petrol-to-filling-stations-in-london-south-east-1089644498.html

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boris johnson, budget, fuel, review, brexit, bills, michael gove, uk, rishi sunak
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/south-koreas-ex-president-roh-tae-woo-dies-aged-88-1090223749.html

South Korea's Ex-President Roh Tae-woo Dies Aged 88

South Korea's Ex-President Roh Tae-woo Dies Aged 88

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Former South Korean President Roh Tae-woo, who ruled the country between 1988 and 1993, died at the aged of 88, the Yonhap news agency... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T14:22+0000

2021-10-26T14:22+0000

2021-10-26T14:27+0000

south korea

president

asia & pacific

death

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The ex-president had been hospitalized due to deteriorating health condition and could not recover.Roh died at Seoul National University Hospital, where he was repeatedly hospitalized with pneumonia, phlegmon, and venous thrombosis.The cause of death of former South Korean president was complications amid a long struggle with multiple system atrophy, according to the official conclusion of doctors.During Roh's presidential term, South Korea established diplomatic relations with the USSR in 1990, and with China in 1992.Roh also established an inter-Korean dialogue at the level of prime ministers, and an agreement on non-aggression, reconciliation, exchanges and cooperation with North Korea came into force in 1992.Since the end of his term, Roh lived in Seoul. In November 1995, he was arrested and imprisoned for bribery and his role in the military coup of his predecessor, dictator Chun Doo-hwan. Two years later, the country's Supreme Court sentenced him to 17 years in prison, but he was soon granted amnesty.

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south korea, president, asia & pacific, death
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/space-for-business-bezos-blue-origin-unveils-plan-to-launch-commercial-space-station--1090208025.html

Space for Business: Bezos' Blue Origin Unveils Plan to Launch Commercial Space Station

Space for Business: Bezos' Blue Origin Unveils Plan to Launch Commercial Space Station

As companies like Elon Musk's Space X and Jeff Bezo's Blue Origin continue to launch untrained individuals into low Earth orbit, the commercialization of... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T03:13+0000

2021-10-26T03:13+0000

2021-10-26T03:13+0000

jeff bezos

space

blue origin

low earth orbit

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Bezo's Blue Origin and Sierra Space announced in a Monday news release that they, and at least four other companies, have embarked on a plan to develop 'Orbital Reef': a low Earth orbit space station that will be commercially developed, owned, and operated. The issuance detailed that operators of the "mixed-use business park" plan to minimize cost and complexity for both traditional space operators and novice arrivals through the incorporation of reusable space transportation and modern, 'smart' design configured with advanced automation logistics. Boeing, Redwire Space, Genesis Engineering, and Arizona State University will assist in building Orbital Reef, and have been assigned a number of tasks. Boeing will deal primarily with aspects related to the science module, station operations, maintenance engineering, and the Starliner crew spacecraft - the ferry that will transport passengers to the station. The US-based corporation is notably NASA's prime contractor for the ISS. "This is exciting for us because this project does not duplicate the immensely successful and enduring ISS, but rather goes a step further to fulfill a unique position in low Earth orbit where it can serve a diverse array of companies and host non-specialist crews," said John Mulholland, Boeing VP and program manager for the ISS." Redwire has been tasked with providing microgravity research capabilities, deployable solar arrays, and the necessary payload operations. Genesis Engineering Solutions has been tapped to develop a single-person spacecraft designed for tourist excursions and routine operations. The planned spacecraft were referenced in Monday remarks by Brent Sherwood, Blue Origin's senior vice president of Advanced Development Programs. Lastly, Arizona State University will provide research advisory services and tackle matters of public outreach. The release highlighted that the school heads the Orbital Reef University Advisory Council, a global consortium of more than a dozen universities committed to a number of initiatives, including the advisement of novice researchers, stimulating research, and STEM Sherwood noted that NASA and other space agencies have laid the groundwork for the commercialization of space through the development of orbital space flight and space habitation. NASA has expressed interest in becoming an "anchor tenant" for the commercially owned and operated space station. The Orbital Reef is slated to be operational by the end of 2030.

tim Those who affirm belief in fantasies such as "space stations" might like to perform a "thought experiment" before continuing with their delusional belief system. There are two forces acting on such structures, "gravity" and "centrifugal force." the former acts directly downwards, the latter at a tangent to the direction of orbit, ie at right angles to "gravity." That being the case, the latter cannot prevent the structure from returning to earth within minutes, unless a constant force is exerted against the force of gravity; and nowhere do we see this happening. As such then, these contraptions may have nice names and catchy taglines, but they are not possible in the world which the rest of us live in. 0

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jeff bezos, space, blue origin, low earth orbit
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/spacex-reportedly-modernises-crew-dragon-toilet-after-2-faulty-missions-1090219104.html

SpaceX Reportedly Modernises Crew Dragon Toilet After 2 Faulty Missions

SpaceX Reportedly Modernises Crew Dragon Toilet After 2 Faulty Missions

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Elon Musk's SpaceX company has upgraded the toilet system on the Crew Dragon spacecraft after running into several problems during previous... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T11:37+0000

2021-10-26T11:37+0000

2021-10-26T11:37+0000

world

spacex

toilet

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He added that the company provided all necessary information on design changes to NASA engineers, studying the modification. According to Gerstenmaier, two technical problems have a "good path to closure" in time for the launch of a new Crew Dragon flight on October 31.Experts are also studying the ways in which malfunctions can lead to corrosion in the construction of the Crew Dragon capsule. According to Gerstenmaier, "extensive tests" have already been carried out.During the flight of the space mission Inspiration4 in September, the toilet system malfunctioned. According to Bill Gerstenmaier, SpaceX engineer and vice president of build and flight reliability, a hose on the Crew Dragon spacecraft became disconnected and fluid entered the ventilation system. When the spacecraft arrived on Earth, engineers examined its condition.Astronauts recorded a similar problem on the Crew-2 mission capsule, which is supposed to return to Earth in November. According to the portal, officials asked the astronauts to limit their use of the Dragon toilet after leaving the station.Crew-3 was formed in May and included NASA astronaut Tom Marshburn, commander Raja Chari, mission specialist Kayla Barron, and German astronaut Matthias Maurer. The Crew Dragon is scheduled to be launched on 31 October. The members of the mission are expected to spend about six months on the International Space Station.The crew named their mission Endurance. This will be the first flight for the Crew Dragon capsule and the second launch for the Falcon 9s recycled first stage booster, which is expected to be used during the flight.

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world, spacex, toilet
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/sudan-facing-military-coup-assange-hearing-may-decide-fate-of-anti-war-journalism-1090206990.html

Sudan Facing Military Coup; Assange Hearing May Decide Fate of Anti-War Journalism

Sudan Facing Military Coup; Assange Hearing May Decide Fate of Anti-War Journalism

International security observers again suspect the US empire as Sudan becomes the latest African nation to face a military coup. 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T09:02+0000

2021-10-26T09:02+0000

2021-10-26T09:03+0000

un security council

valdai

sudan

china

putin

congress

the critical hour

radio

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Sudan Facing Military Coup; Assange Hearing May Decide Fate of Anti-War Journalism International security observers again suspect the US empire as Sudan becomes the latest African nation to face a military coup.

Dr. Linwood Tauheed, associate professor of economics at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, joins us to discuss domestic politics. Congress is running out of time as the President works to get his economic agenda through Congress before he leaves for Europe at the end of the week. Also, progressives battle to keep a few social spending programmes in the bill as they seem to be almost completely stripped from the legislation.Tunde Osazua, on the Africa Team of the Black Alliance for Peace (BAP) and coordinator of BAP's "U.S. Out of Africa" Network, joins us to discuss Africa. International security observers again suspect the US as Sudan becomes the latest African nation to face a military coup. The prime minister has been arrested by the military and taken to an unknown location, as radio and TV stations in the capitol fall into the hands of the coup plotters.Steve Poikonen, national organizer for Action4Assange, joins us to discuss Julian Assange. Consortium News is reporting that "Ian Duncan Burnett, the most powerful judge in England and Wales, will join Lord Justice Timothy Holroyde on the bench next week for the two-day U.S. appeal in the extradition case of WikiLeaks publisher Julian Assange." The Assange case has completely disintegrated and some are holding out hope that he may reverse the trend of unfair and unreasonable findings by the court.Leo Flores, Latin America coordinator for Code Pink, joins us to discuss Venezuela. The Venezuelan government was working in a reasonable and professional manner in talks with the opposition when the talks were sabotaged by the Biden administration. The Biden team kidnapped Venezuelan diplomat Alex Saab and illegally brought him to Miami. The appearance is that the administration has no intentions of holding honest negotiations with the Bolivarian republic.Laith Marouf, broadcaster and journalist based in Beirut, joins us to discuss the Middle East. Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr remains one of the most influential politicians in Iraq. Al-Sadr's political followers have secured 70 seats in the latest election, and observers wonder if he can garner enough support to form a ruling coalition. Also, the US seems to be hitting roadblocks in their attempt to secure permission from Pakistan for the use of their airspace to continue their assault on Afghanistan.Mark Sleboda, Moscow-based international relations security analyst, joins us to discuss President Putin's Valdai speech. President Putin infuriated the Davos crowd when he made pointed statements about the moral and economic decline in the West. Putin argued that the current model of neoliberal globalist capitalism serves only the rich and is creating destabilizing wealth inequality.Jonathan Kuttab, human rights lawyer, joins us to discuss Israel. Israel has effectively outlawed six Palestinian human rights organizations Friday by designating them as terrorist organizations. Many observers expect harsh police and/or military crackdowns on these groups as a result of this move.KJ Noh, peace activist, writer and teacher, joins us to discuss the US's relationship with the UN. The leaders of Russia and China have both recently made comments about the UN and the need for it to remain a stable body for international stability. Russian President Vladimir Putin argues that the US's recent moves to change the security council will destroy the credibility of the body and reduce it to a discussion platform.We'd love to get your feedback at radio@sputniknews.com

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un security council, valdai, sudan, china, putin, congress, the critical hour, , radio
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/this-septic-isle-sewage-hits-brexit-fans-1090223870.html

This Septic Isle Sewage Hits Brexit Fans

This Septic Isle Sewage Hits Brexit Fans

In one of the most famous speeches in English literature, from Shakespeares Richard II, England is eulogized as a Sceptered Isle  supposedly meaning how it... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T14:23+0000

2021-10-26T14:23+0000

2021-10-26T14:23+0000

columnists

uk

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You could hardly make it up, so appalling it is. Britain is believed to be the only country in continental Europe where the government has actually given permission to industries and water management companies to release untreated waste into rivers and seas.That development comes on the back of shortages in waste treatment chemicals, which in turn is a result of shortage of haulage truck drivers, which in turn is a result of Brexit  Britains decision to quit the European Union.Due to these supply problems, Boris Johnsons Conservative government has given the go-ahead for businesses to pump raw sewage into natural waterways.Conservation groups and public health experts are now condemningJohnsons government for what they say amounts to turning rivers and coastal waters into open sewers.You couldnt get a more damning metaphor for the rebounding impact of Brexit. Supply shortages and empty shelves have been across the board as a result of the United Kingdom bailing out of the EU. Downing Street and Brexit supporters claim that the problems are only short-term adjustment hitches before Global Britain goes on to a glorious future  as in the days of yore when it had an empire.But back to reality: rivers running brown from sewage as a short-term glitch? It sounds more like Brexit ambitions have hit the fan. Is this meant to be taking back control from Brussels and reclaiming sovereign independence? Taking back control to dirty your own nest more like it.The laugh here is this week sees Boris Johnson convening the COP26 international conference. US President Joe Biden and some other world leaders are to attend the summit which is billed as saving the planet from ecological disaster.Of course, it is an empty PR exercise by Johnson to try to promote Britain as a world leader.How is anyone supposed to take the British prime minister seriously about saving mankind from climate-change disaster when his government is willing to drown its own people in toxic water?It all gets back to dirty money of course. The British parliament last week voted against imposing a legal duty on businesses and water management firms to take measures to clean up waste water. The majority of Conservative MPs claimed that the duty would cost too much. That is sort of correct. It is estimated that to upgrade Britains Victorian-era sewerage system it would cost between 150 and 650 billion ($200-$900 bn).Rather than that being an excuse for voting against water quality control laws, it is an abject admission of chronic neglect under successive British governments. Why should Britain have Victorian-era sewers in the first place? That is, encumbered with creaking infrastructure for vital public health which is over a century old.The problem of chronic neglect has been made all the more worse under Conservative governments since Margaret Thatcher which have privatized the management of public water. Profit-making firms have simply cut back costs by neglecting upgrades of infrastructure.Now that Britain has left the EU, it is no longer obliged to adhere to laws governing water quality standards. To protect private profit, the Johnson government is simply letting businesses open the sluice gates for sewage and other waste water to flow into the public spaces. Its classic capitalism. Offload costs on to the public to maximize private profit.Back in 2018, Britains then environment minister Michael Gove  one of Johnsons Brexit geniuses  claimed that leaving the EU would not jeopardize Britains drinking water supplies. He implied that rivers and seas would be cleaner from London having independence from Brussels.Last year, there were 400,000 incidents of raw sewage pouring into English natural waterways  up from 300,000 incidents in 2019. The trend is only going to get worse in the light of new moves by the Johnson government to gut any remaining quality controls.Like much else claimed about the glories of Brexit, the mounting crisis over British water pollution demonstrates that Johnson and Co are full of fecal material.By the way, Shakespeares eulogy for England was qualified. It also was an oblique censure to the rulers of the day for selling out sovereignty for grubby self-interests. Johnson and Co probably think they are of Shakespearian finest in their supposed patriotism. The bard would appreciate the stinking irony.

Rita Lamar Even if they - the 'full of fecal matter' politicians - did make au-turn on that decision yesterday, it doesn't mean they will check the 'incidents' of water pollution to control them... So, what difference will it make? 2

WhatTheFishIsThis Brits soon going back to nature over streams and river banks .. healthier option actually, than the sitting toilet. ROFL 1

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columnists, uk
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/thousands-of-unemployed-write-letter-in-blood-seeking-appointments-in-bjp-governed-uttar-pradesh-1090196194.html

Thousands of Unemployed Write Letter 'in Blood' Seeking Appointments in BJP-Governed Uttar Pradesh

Thousands of Unemployed Write Letter 'in Blood' Seeking Appointments in BJP-Governed Uttar Pradesh

In 2014, the Bharatiya Janata Party took India's political stage by storm with grand promises of over 20 million jobs per year. However, opposition parties and... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T10:37+0000

2021-10-26T10:37+0000

2021-10-26T10:37+0000

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Thousands of demonstrating young people have written a letter to Uttar Pradesh State Chief Yogi Adityanath demanding an immediate filling of vacancies for 137,500 assistant teachers in schools across the state. Samajwadi Party leader and former State Chief Akhilesh Yadav has tweeted that the letter was purportedly written with the candidates' blood.In the letter, the candidates requested that Adityanath fill the vacant posts in the state with eligible teachers.Since July of this year, these candidates have been protesting at the State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT) office in Lucknow, alleging partiality in recruitment against them by the state government. They claimed that the government supports upper caste candidates while ignoring candidates from marginalised communities. India has a quota system in government jobs where people from marginalised communities receive a fixed amount of seats. Some female and male candidates have demonstrated their displeasure by climbing a water tank on the campus of the SCERT office.On 21 October, the agitating candidates were brutally lathi-charged and dispersed by the police. The police have arrested 61 candidates so far and sent them to jail. A total of 84 candidates also wrote a letter to the president and governor mentioning suicidial thoughts citing their joblessness and lack of support from the government. The BJP came to power in Uttar Pradesh in 2017 with a thumping majority, promising jobs, and better socio-economic development in the state.

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https://sputniknews.com/20211026/trade-between-russian-capital-and-us-nearly-doubles-in-2021-1090213611.html

Trade Between Russian Capital and US Nearly Doubles in 2021

Trade Between Russian Capital and US Nearly Doubles in 2021

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - The trade turnover between the Russian capital and the United States has increased by nearly 50% this year compared to the same period of... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T08:18+0000

2021-10-26T08:18+0000

2021-10-26T08:18+0000

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moscow

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Import from Moscow to the United States has reached $6.9 billion over the first eight months of 2021, marking a 34% increase compared to the same period of the previous year.Germany, France, Finland and Italy are among Moscow's other big investment partners, the official said, adding that the capital's developed transport and social infrastructure, high-quality labour and other resources attract businesses, including foreign ones.

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business, russia, us, moscow
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/united-airlines-pilots-workers-refusing-to-fly-with-unvaccinated-colleagues-court-docs-reveal-1090231366.html

United Airlines Pilots, Workers Refusing to Fly With Unvaccinated Colleagues, Court Docs Reveal

United Airlines Pilots, Workers Refusing to Fly With Unvaccinated Colleagues, Court Docs Reveal

Last month, United Airlines revealed that approximately 2,000 of its 67,000 staffers based in the US had applied for a religious or medical exemption from the... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T21:20+0000

2021-10-26T21:20+0000

2021-10-26T21:20+0000

united airlines

travel

health

covid-19

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While the majority of United employees have been vaccinated against COVID-19, a significant number of workers at the airline have refused to comply with the company mandate, forcing the company to place unvaccinated employees on leave. United has responded to a suit filed by some of its employees placed on leave, arguing that the company has reached an impasse when it comes to options for those who both refuse to get vaccinated and do not qualify for a religious or medical exemption. Kirk Limacher, vice president of human resources at United, explained in a filing obtained by CNN that a majority of pilots for the company expressed that they are not comfortable working in confined spaces with unvaccinated people, including fellow employees. The United HR representative added that some pilots refuse to fly with unvaccinated coworkers. Flight attendants have expressed similar objections to working with unvaccinated colleagues. "The distractions and dissension this would cause in the workforce represent an unacceptable safety risk," Limacher asserted. The airliner revealed last month that some 2,000 individuals have submitted requests for a religious or medical exemption from the mandate. Though it was originally reported that United could lay off close to 600 employees over a failure to adhere to the mandate, the company now estimates some 200 individuals are in danger of losing their job, according to CNN. At the same time, it does not appear likely that all workers will have their requests approved, as United CEO Scott Kirby cast doubt on how the industry would manage the volume of COVID-19 testing that would be required for those who insist on refusing the vaccine. "Imagine if you have thousands of employees on one day calling in and saying, 'For some reason, my test didn't pass,'" Kirby pointed out. "I mean it is going to be a huge challenge for airlines that are not implementing vaccine requirements." Judge Pittman has ordered that United keep employees on the payroll while arguments are being heard in the Fort Worth, Texas, court. As the air travel industry in the US attempts to rebound amid the COVID-19 pandemic, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and JetBlue have also announced COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

TruePatriot How nice and kind of the idiots that went ahead and got jabbed, because all medical indications and studies show that the jab does not prevent you from getting the bug, nor from transmitting the bug, and, in fact, can cause a shedding effect whereby the jabbed spread the bug that was injected into them. It is called the pox of the vaccinated and not flying with those that have been smart enough to avoid the experimental therapy like the plague is protecting them from getting the bug and causing them injury. 6

CalDre Wonder if these jabbed tyrants have any "science" behind their refusals? Since the "vaxxed" are quite capable of becoming infected by, and transmitting, SARS-CoV-2, but if you don't believe that, so what if the other person is not jabbed if you are? Seriously, no logic here besides cowardly submission to religious dogma. 5

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Evan Craighead

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united airlines, travel, health, covid-19
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/us-judge-sets-deadline-for-prince-andrews-testimony-in-sex-abuse-case-1090213207.html

US Judge Sets Deadline For Prince Andrews Testimony in Sex Abuse Case

US Judge Sets Deadline For Prince Andrews Testimony in Sex Abuse Case

The second son of Queen Elizabeth II has been accused by an American woman, Virginia Giuffre, who claims that the royal slept with her at least three times... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T08:25+0000

2021-10-26T08:25+0000

2021-10-26T08:25+0000

ghislaine maxwell

prince andrew

jeffrey epstein

sex abuse

virginia roberts giuffre

uk

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A US judge has set a deadline for Prince Andrews testimony in a sex abuse case, ruling that the royal has to be questioned under oath by mid-July 2022. The Duke of York would be required to answer questions asked by the lawyers of his accuser Virginia Giuffre during a private hearing under Mutual League Assistance (MLS), a method of cooperation between countries for obtaining assistance in the investigation or prosecution of criminal offences.UK media reported that the 61-year-old could exercise the right against self-incrimination and not answer questions. He could also attempt to seek to have any formal MLS request set aside, saying he has no relevant evidence to give.What Are the Accusations?On 9 August, Virginia Giuffre filed a civil lawsuit against Prince Andrew in a New York court. She is seeking "accountability" from the royal and is demanding compensation for physical and mental damage. The mother of three is one of the alleged victims of Jeffrey Epstein, a US financier who was charged in 2019 with running a sex trafficking network of minors.Epstein had many acquaintances in high circles  celebrities (Kevin Spacey and Chris Tucker), politicians (ex-Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak, former US Presidents Donald Trump and Bill Clinton), entrepreneurs (Bill Gates and Elon Musk), and even royals (Prince Andrew).Giuffre has claimed that at the age of 17, Epstein and his alleged accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell trafficked her to London, where she was forced to have sex with Prince Andrew. She also said that the Duke of York had slept with her two more times without her consent.The royal has categorically denied the accusations, saying he has an alibi for the day the alleged sexual intercourse occurred in London. He also said he had no recollection of meeting the woman.The veracity of the latter's statement has been questioned - one woman claims to have seen the royal dancing with Giuffre at a nightclub, and there is at least one photo showing Prince Andrew standing next to a young Giuffre and Epsteins purported "pimp" Ghislaine Maxwell.Reports say Prince Andrew is now preparing to hand over "personal documents" for a civil lawsuit in the US. His legal team has until 29 October to respond to the lawsuit. According to The Sunday Telegraph, a remote hearing has been scheduled for 3 November.Jeffrey Epstein was found hanging in his cell on 10 August 2019 while awaiting trial. His death was ruled a suicide, although some people believe that the financier was murdered by his powerful friends, who may have feared they could be implicated in the scandal. Ghislaine Maxwell was arrested by the FBI in July of 2020 and her trial is scheduled for November.

tim Yes, it's only you. The issue here is not what Virginia Roberts looked like when PA was abusing her. It's about the illegal act of either sex trafficking, or being an accomplice to sex trafficking, and what Ms. Roberts looks like has nothing to do with why the law was originally drawn up. But perhaps PA has decided, after sober rflection, to ask as certain "Charles Windsor" why his name appears on the Lolita flight logs too. maybe if this is used, then the case against him will miraculously disappear. 1

carlosconde099 It's only me who sees she is a disgusting old hooker trying to cash money? 0

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ghislaine maxwell, prince andrew, jeffrey epstein, sex abuse, virginia roberts giuffre, uk
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/whats-behind-facebook-whistleblowers-call-for-reining-in-the-silicon-valley-giant-1090211682.html

What's Behind Facebook Whistleblower's Call for 'Reining In' the Silicon Valley Giant?

What's Behind Facebook Whistleblower's Call for 'Reining In' the Silicon Valley Giant?

Newly released internal documents indicate that politics was often at the centre of decision-making at Facebook. While the whistleblower who leaked the docs is... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T07:45+0000

2021-10-26T07:45+0000

2021-10-26T08:28+0000

donald trump

whistleblower

world

us

opinion

censorship

facebook

steve bannon

fbi

cia

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Facebook "whitelisted" Breitbart to avoid a "fight" with former White House strategist Stephen Bannon, a new whistleblower told The Washington Post. The Wall Street Journal reported that Facebook had kept Breitbart's news about the George Floyd protests on its News Tab feature despite earlier intent to silence the conservative source by the tech companys employees. Internal exchanges revealed that Facebook's management feared public blowback.Last month, the WSJ kicked off a series of exposures concerning Facebook's policies, one of which was XCheck, a programme allowing certain types of users, including celebrities or politicians, to do whatever they want on the platform without any ramifications. The tool reportedly protected 5.8 million people in 2020, according to the report.Making Money is the GoalFacebook has repeatedly come under criticism from both sides of the US political aisle. Back in 2020, Donald Trump and conservatives lashed out at the company for "censoring" and "labelling" right-wing voices, while Democrats and left-leaning activists criticised the Silicon Valley giant for "protecting white supremacy" and "allowing false content" amid the George Floyd protests. A group of activists including the NAACP and the Anti-Defamation League lambasted Facebook for including conservative outlets The Daily Caller and Breitbart as one of the tech giant's fact-checking partners and a "trusted source", respectively.Although Mark Zuckerberg originally had a fairly comfortable relationship with Trump, following the latter's election defeat and the subsequent Capitol riots, the politician was no longer seen as "a billable character", according to Kampmark. The Facebook CEO moved away from "hyper-partisan" pages in favour of "official news sources such as CNN".However, the Silicon Valley giant has again come under bipartisan scrutiny following a series of exposures by American data engineer Frances Haugen. She disclosed tens of thousands of Facebook's internal documents to The Wall Street Journal in 2021 and the congressional Securities and Exchange Commission last month.Is Facebook Whistleblower Impartial?On 25 October, Haugen, a Facebook data scientist-turned-whistleblower, testified before the UK Parliament, which is currently looking into PM Boris Johnson's Online Safety Bill. The new legislation would obligate social media companies to protect users or face substantial fines of up to 10% of their global revenue.Frances Haugen called upon Europeans to pass new laws in order to rein in social media networks. According to Politico, Haugen will also be invited to the European Parliament.Boyd-Barrett cites alternative media sources which claim that the Facebook whistleblower "was cultivated and legally represented by an organization led by former intelligence insiders with close ties to the US national security state".Haugen is backed by Whistleblower Aid, founded by a national security lawyer, Mark Zaid, former State Department official John Tye, ex-CIA and Pentagon official Andrew Bakaj, and veteran US government information warrior, Libby Liu, according to Boyd-Barrett.She is also said to be a member of "the little-known Facebook 'threat intelligence unit' where [she] claimed to have worked is staffed by former CIA, NSA, and Pentagon operatives", the academic notes. Despite Zaid running Whistleblower Aid, he is known to be one of the most vocal critics of actual whistleblower Edward Snowden and WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange.In addition to this, Politico recently revealed that Haugen is receiving funding from tech billionaire and media mogul Pierre Omidyar. Independent American journalist Glenn Greenwald, who has worked with Omidyar for years, has warned in his latest op-ed that the media mogul "is not some apolitical or neutral guardian of good internet governance". Instead, the billionaire is "a highly politicised and ideological actor with very strong views on society's most debated questions", according to the journalist. In particular, Omidyar has long been an ardent proponent of the Trump-Russia "collusion" story and used to be highly critical of the former president.The latest scandal resembles nothing as much as the previous one involving Cambridge Analytica, according to Boyd-Barrett. "Facebook's willingness following this scandal to invest ever more heavily in 'content moderation', appears to have had negative consequences for the volume of traffic to many left-of-centre and, possibly, right-of-centre, information and commentary websites critical of the existing power structure", he says, suggesting that the latest exposure could lead to tightening the screws on independent voices.

https://sputniknews.com/20211025/facebook-whistleblower-to-testify-about-online-harm-as-uk-mps-consider-online-safety-bill-1090186555.html

https://sputniknews.com/20211006/snowden-says-facebook-pretends-to-be-victim-after-ex-employee-testimony-1089701835.html

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donald trump, whistleblower, world, us, opinion, censorship, facebook, steve bannon, fbi, cia
https://sputniknews.com/20211026/world-war-ii-bomb-blast-on-solomon-islands-kills-two-reports-say-1090213951.html

World War II Bomb Blast on Solomon Islands Kills Two, Reports Say

World War II Bomb Blast on Solomon Islands Kills Two, Reports Say

MOSCOW (Sputnik)  Two people were killed and two others sustained injuries when a World War II bomb detonated on the Solomon Islands, the Solomon Times... 26.10.2021, Sputnik International

2021-10-26T08:50+0000

2021-10-26T08:50+0000

2021-10-26T08:50+0000

solomon islands

asia & pacific

bomb

explosion

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The explosion reportedly occurred at 7 p.m. Monday local time (8:00 Tuesday GMT) in the city of Honiara, the islands capital, where members of a family of the victims were cooking on a stone oven.As a result of the blast from the detonated bomb, a father and a son were killed, while two other members of the family are in serious conditions, according to the outlet. The father is said to have died shortly after the incident, while the son was hospitalised and passed away later.This was the fifth fatal incident of this kind this year as many more unexploded bombs remain buried across the Solomon Islands and other nations in the Pacific region since war times, the newspaper said.

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solomon islands, asia & pacific, bomb, explosion
Two passionate racehorse caretakers in Ontario will once again have the chance to further their skills with Equine Guelphs tuition awards program.

The program has been running since 2016, thanks to the generosity of both the LHeureux and Stocks families who set up memorial awards for future ambassadors of Ontarios racing industry. The deadline to apply is November 30, 2021.

Selected for their love of horses, commitment to their welfare and desire to learn, both winners will receive two online courses through Equine Guelph valued at $549 each. (Certificates are available in Equine Science, Equine Welfare and Equine Business  six courses complete the certificate).

Hundreds of Ontario Racing industry members have discovered ways to optimize the health and performance of their racehorses by taking online short courses through TheHorsePortal.ca, said Equine Guelph director Gayle Ecker. For those ready to take that learning to the next level, the 12-week online university-accredited courses are a wonderful opportunity.

One of the most popular courses among the tuition award winners has been Exercise Physiology.

Knowledge acquired in Equine Guelph online courses has opened doors for me in the industry, said Cameron Lago, Standardbred breeder and past recipient of both awards.

Standardbred breeder, owner, and groom, Cameron Lago shares his career journey into the world of harness racing and the role continuing education has played.

The Roger LHeureux Memorial Equine Award was established in loving memory of Standardbred driver, trainer and groom Roger LHeureux by David LHeureux and Crystal Fountains Inc. The Stuart Stocks Memorial Equine Award has been created by the Stocks family in memory of their beloved brother, son and uncle, and avid follower of top Thoroughbred racehorses, Stuart Stocks.

The candidates for Equine Guelphs 2021 tuition awards are required to write a 250-word letter demonstrating their love of horses and commitment to the industry.

Click here for submission details.

(With files from Equine Guelph)
Seven children in the Culpeper five-county health district were hospitalized with COVID-19 since July 4 and one died from the virus, according to a new dashboard released last week by Virginia Dept. of Health showing cases, hospitalizations and deaths for ages 0-17 by health district.

There were 1,520 pediatric cases documented in that same time period in Culpeper, Fauquier, Orange, Madison and Rappahannock, according to the data made available last week.

The highly contagious delta variantand the reopening of schoolsled to more pediatric infections and hospitalizations statewide, Dr. Danny Avula, the states vaccine coordinator told the Free Lance-Star.

The Rappahannock-Rapidan Health District is looking forward to the next big step in fighting COVID-19 and that is vaccinating children aged 5-11, according to a release on Friday. VDH is awaiting final word from the FDA and CDC for the approval of novel coronavirus vaccines for school age youth.

Getting children vaccinated will be the next big step in emerging from the COVID-19 pandemic and returning to normal. The health department looks forward to working with the community when vaccination becomes available for this younger age group, according to the release.

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Culpeper County Supervisor Bill Chase is seeking an 11th term of office and is the county's longest serving supervisor. Since the start of the pandemic, Chase has been unable to attend in-person meetings due to his health.

The 81-year-old Vietnam veteran, retired Pennsylvania coal miner and former Stevensburg farmer has taken part in county business these past 18 months via telephone or computer. He is currently living with his son, according to Key Settle.

She read a written statement for Chase at last Tuesday's candidates forum at Richardsville Volunteer Fire & Rescue, located in the Stevensburg District. His statement read:

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"I have always treated all the citizens of my district as my friends. Over the years, I have received many requests from my friends in the Richardsville area. Before the pandemic, I tried to attend each dinner and celebration at the fire hall. I reacted to each and every phone call from the Richarsville area as well as the entire Stevensburg district.
Gugino said nobody wants to move in next door to a farm where there could be crop dust, lime dispersal, or the smell of a feed lot. The buffers were originally intended to protect the new and to protect the old, she said.

Were the right thing to do? Maybe, maybe not. But we cant constantly be on the side of brand new homeowner and forget all of our farmers and rural residents, Gugino said.

She said she was open to looking at changes to district rules, for example, in agricultural zoning increased setbacks from the property line. Gugino said it was unfortunate the case in which a property owner could not a build on a house on their land due to the buffer.

She added, Our farmers are getting pushed out of our agricultural zoned lands. Developers are buying cheap land, splitting it and these farmers are having to quit farming. That will fundamentally change Culpeper.

Rogers disagreed, saying she would support eliminating conservation district buffers on separately owned neighboring sites. Every parcel owner in the district has to reapply every eight years and agree to continue to use their property in conservation with trees, cows, hay, crops whatever you have the right to do that on your property, she said.
Gutentag! Hola! Ciao! XieXie! Hello!

Wakefield Country Day School, near the town of Flint Hill, is known for welcoming students from several surrounding counties, including Rappahannock, Fauquier, Prince William, Culpeper and Warren.

This year, WCDS also welcomes a dozen high school students from Germany, Italy, China and Spainas well as D.C. and New York City, according to a school release.

Several of these students will complete their high school careers at Wakefield while others are on a one-year exchange program.

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Natalia, from Spain, loves drawing, history and literature, and wants to become a journalist. It was the Journalism Program at WCDS that drew her to Rappahannock, and its annual trip to the Big Apple and the New York Times.

Jonah, from Germany, loves math and physics, and was most interested in joining the WCDS Jazz Ensemble as a trombonist.

Alessia is from Italy. She loves travel and learning about new cultures and hopes to attend college in the States.

Jeannel is from the Queens, NYC. In a meeting with Dr. Cameron Webb, she was inspired to become a dermatologist, and has dug into her chemistry classes.
A Bayard farmer and rancher has been indicted on four counts of bank fraud after he allegedly defrauded a bank in an attempt to secure more than $11.2 million in loans.

According to an indictment filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Nebraska, George Liakos, who conducted a farming operation in Bayard on which he primarily grew beans, corn and sugar beets in addition to raising cattle, is accused of attempting to defraud Great Western Bank.

The indictment says Liakos, 62, and his wife entered into a loans and security agreement with Great Western Bank on or about June 2, 2017, for a revolving loan of credit for $8.5 million, a machinery and equipment loan for more than $1.8 million and a livestock loan for $850,000, for a total of more than $11.2 million. As part of the agreement, the couple granted the bank a security interest in assets and farm products as collateral for the loans.

On Nov. 26, 2018, they signed a forbearance agreement, involving the amounts due and payable from the June 2017 loan, with interest, and an additional revolving line of credit of $336,000.
Were doing (online orders) again this year just too kind of simplify things and cut down a little bit of the contact. Generally, we do sell more and make more when kids are collecting money and actually selling them that way. We thought it would be a wise move to carry that (online sales) on another year. I think Krispy Kreme was probably a little disappointed because we sell more (when students go door to door), he said, jokingly.

If my neighbor kid comes to my door, I can say yes, but then I have to give him $10 or $20 and buy my doughnuts. Now, I can say yes and you give me a slip to go online. Well, I can just throw the slip away and not order and that kid doesnt know that I didnt probably order, he said. I tell the students that if you want to sell more, you might have to ask more people. I said thats a reality. Someone could say yes but really not. The other thing is true, and they might say yes and when theyre on their ordering they might actually buy three dozens and when they thought they were only going to maybe buy one. It could go both ways.
During the month of October, Americans from across the country come together to raise awareness about a disease that will affect one in eight U.S. women at some point in their lives: breast cancer.

This year alone, nearly 300,000 women will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Its the most common form of cancer among American women, with a new diagnosis turning a familys life upside down once every two minutes. Because it touches the lives of so many women, chances are you know someone who has been diagnosed.

But for all the worrying facts surrounding breast cancer, there is hope, too. More than 3.8 million women living in the U.S. today fought breast cancer and won the battle. Many of these courageous survivors caught their cancer early, through regular screenings like mammograms or ultrasounds. It is important to encourage as many women as possible to take advantage of these opportunities.

This is why I am always so inspired to see the many ways Nebraskans support cancer patients, survivors, and research during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Community gatherings, fundraisers, and other events are a great way to show these Nebraskans that they have the support of an entire state  and here in the Good Life, you dont have to look far to find ways to join in.
This is where the truly dangerous ignorance begins. For years now, voters have been told that the rich as well as greedy corporations are an untapped renewable resource that can pay for everything and anything. Thats false. You could confiscate all of the wealth of the top 1% and it wouldnt come close to covering the bill for, say, the Green New Deal or Medicare for All. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez may turn heads by scrawling tax the rich on her ball gowns, but the truth is we already do -- at a remarkably progressive rate.

Theres no room here to explain why I think Bidens promise that his $3.5 trillion package wont be free for everyone making less than $400,000 per year. So, lets just pretend its true. In the market, popularity is determined by what people are willing to pay for with their own money. However, in progressive politics -- and in much of the mainstream media -- popularity is determined by what people are willing to have other people pay for. Defining public support this way is misleading.

But even if the rich could pay for it all, democracy isnt enriched when voters think one very small class of people is greedily standing in the way of economic salvation.
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NATO member Estonia has selected an Israeli weapons system to provide coastal defense capabilities against the Russian naval threat. Israel is selling Estonia an unspecified number of the latest version of its Gabriel anti-ship missile. This model, the Blue Spear, is the result of a 2020 joint development project in which Israel and Singapore developed and marketed Blue Spear, which is based on Gabriel 5, the latest model of the Gabriel missile. The first version of Gabriel appeared in 1973.

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania (the Baltic States that were long part of Russia) are the easternmost members of NATO as well as the smallest. All three have adopted similar defense plans, based on the mobilization of the entire population to keep the Russians fighting for as long as possible until the rest of NATO can show up and put the Russians on the defensive. Each of the three Baltic States has a slightly different approach to dealing with the Russian threat, but together are recognized as leaders in developing innovative defense policies to deal with the Russian threat. This is important because Russia has been resourceful in developing new techniques for attacking and subduing neighbors. Russia has been doing this for centuries and the neighbors are aware of it. The Baltic States, however, have developed defensive plans that seek to use some of the clever Russian plans against them.

Estonia is the easternmost NATO nation and the Baltic state that is ethnically related to Finland, not the other Slavic nations of East Europe. Estonia and Finland speak a similar language and share many cultural characteristics, which has led to some different approaches to wrangling Russians.

Estonia is the Baltic State closest to Russian naval bases and most vulnerable to surprise naval-bombardment and amphibious landing. Estonia needed a new anti-ship missile that would be able to handle the EW (Electronic Warfare) Russia has developed for such attacks while being mobile enough to avoid destruction by Russian missiles or naval gunfire before launching. In other words, Estonia needed a smart missile with plenty of resistance to counter-measures as well as long enough range to be concealed anywhere within Estonia and regularly moved around during peacetime to maintain that concealment.

The Blue Spear has the counter-measures, a very capable guidance system and a range of 300 kilometers. Blue Spear is a 1.3-ton missile that is 5.5 meters (18 feet) long that travels as low as 2.5 meters (8.1 feet) over water while moving at over 800 kilometers an hour. Israel and Finland are already using the Gabriel 5 and Britain is considering purchasing Sea Serpent, a Blue Spear variant to replace Harpoon missiles for its new class of frigates. IAI, the Israeli firm the makes Gabriel, has a joint marketing arrangement with Thales UK to help with export and co-development deals.

Estonia is a special case as far as coast defense is concerned. Thats because Estonia and Finland are two nations with a lot of experience with Russian invasions and cooperating to do so. Until the early 20th century there were serious discussions of Estonia becoming part of Finland but that has faded. The main problem is that Estonia and Finland are separated by a narrow portion of the Baltic Sea. While still major trading partners and frequently providing welcome visitors for each other, Estonia is isolated on the south shore of the Baltic and thus more vulnerable to foreign occupation. Nevertheless, the Estonians and Finns share many of the same attitudes about national defense, which means keeping the Russians out.

The Finns fought the massive Soviet Army to a standstill in 1940 and the Russians never forgot. After World War II Russia decided not to try to make Finland one of its satellite states as was the case in most of East Europe. Note that Russian took over these East European countries not so much with military occupation but with political and media manipulation, assisted by violence as needed, to get a pro-Russia government elected, after which there were no more elections. No Russian troops were based in Finland during the Cold War and both nations left each other alone. The Russians had decided that, while they could invade and conquer Finland, it was not worth the price militarily, politically, diplomatically, and so on.

Now, with membership in NATO, Estonia sees an opportunity to do the same thing; scare Russia into staying out. Estonian defense policy is based on organizing the country for total and intimidating resistance to any invasion. Everyone fights and keeps fighting as long as NATO reinforcements are on the way. While military planners agree that it is possible for Russian forces to overrun Estonia in a few days, the Estonians point out that overrunning and defeating are two different things. Moreover, nearly half the population lives in the capital (Tallinn) which is an ancient port city and 87 kilometers to the north, across the Baltic, is its Finnish counterpart, Helsinki. The Estonians are aware of Russian developments in EW and Internet hacking. That is one reason why Estonia has created one of the best Internet and communications security capabilities in Europe. Estonia may be small but they know what is important. If the Russians come, the invaders bad behavior will be captured and broadcast, one way or another, as close to 24/7 as the Estonians can manage. Russia does not like its bad behavior exposed like that because even a lot of Russians dont approve of that sort of thing. Broadcast the lies live and the lies lose their power.

The Estonian military forces reflect the total war attitude, but must recruit those forces from a 1.3 million population. The voluntary Eesti Kaitseliit (Estonian Defense League) has 15,000 active members and another 10,000 inactive (in peacetime). The military is based on the same model used by Israel, Switzerland, and Sweden; conscription for a short period and then decades in the trained and armed reserves. There are only 6,500 full-time Estonian troops but 60,000 in the reserves. The Defense League force concentrates on training for irregular warfare and spends more time at it than the average reservist. In wartime, the Defense League and reservists would work closely together to keep the invaders busy and off guard. The biggest problem facing any invader is the fact that nearly half the Estonians live in the capital and its suburbs. The Defense League and reservists understand that Tallinn must become, for as long as needed and at whatever cost, another Stalingrad with the Russians being the German invaders who failed to take the city and lost the war because of that. Stalingrad remains a big deal in Russian military history, the city on the Volga River that tied down the invading, and seemingly unstoppable Germans for months until a counterattack inflicted a major defeat in early 1943 that led to a German retreat and ended with Russian troops taking Berlin two years later.

Israel doesnt have to worry about a larger and formidable neighbor invading, has does have practical experience with what happens when they dont keep up with military technology. Since the 1970s anti-ship missiles have become the primary means for attacking surface vessels. Israel was the main reason for that trend because they were a prominent victim of a 1967 attack in which Egyptian Komar-class missile boats fired crude Russian Styx missiles that sank the Israeli destroyer Eliat. Many more anti-ship missiles have been designed and put into service since then but the Gabriel has been one of the most successful in combat.

Soon after the successful Styx attack, Israel developed their own anti-ship missile, the Gabriel. The surface-to-surface Gabriel 1 has a range of 20 kilometers, used radar guidance, and in 1973, became the scourge of the Arab navies, sinking nine vessels. This missile has probably had some of the most extensive combat usage in the world, and has performed well. Gabriel 2 and 3 appeared in 1976 with one being an air-launched model with a range of 60 kilometers while the surface-to-surface version was 36 kilometers. Gabriel 4 appeared in 1994 with a range of 200 kilometers. Weight was 960 kg, compared to 430 kg for Gabriel 1. Gabriel has been one of the more capable competitors of the American Harpoon, which appeared in 1977. Gabriel has been exported to 14 countries. Harpoon has been sold to more countries and nearly 8,000 have been built so far, which is more than ten times the Gabriel production. Gabriel survives because it was developed by a country that was constantly under threat of attack and is quicker to modify their weapons to better deal with a threatening neighbor.
We have been horrified, scared and saddened ... as false information has been taken as fact and that unfounded stories have spread," Mako said in a written answer to one of the questions.

The dispute involves whether money his mother received from her former fiance was a loan or a gift. Makos father asked Komuro to clarify, and he wrote a statement defending himself, but it is still unclear if the dispute has been fully resolved.

Komuro, 30, left for New York in 2018 to study law and only returned to Japan last month. His hair was tied in a ponytail at the time and the look drew attention as a bold statement for someone marrying a princess in the tradition-bound imperial family and only added to the criticism.

The couple will move together to New York to start a new life.

Many in Tokyo wished them good luck.

Congratulations," said office worker Yasuhiro Suzuki. "I hope people in America will welcome them.

Retiree Kenko Suzuki said he expects life in New York will be challenging because they will have to live without people taking care of them. So I'm rooting for them, he said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A Republican secretary of state who challenged former President Donald Trump's false claims of election fraud in 2020 is the front-runner for a job heading the Biden administration's effort to protect future elections, according to people familiar with the discussions.

Kim Wyman, 59, has led elections in Washington state for years, and she was reelected to a third term in November  the lone statewide-elected Republican on the West Coast. She is in talks to serve as the election security leader for the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the agency responsible for safeguarding U.S. elections, the people told The Associated Press. The people had knowledge of the discussions but weren't authorized to speak publicly and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Wyman would serve as the governments liaison to the states, a job that was high profile before 2020, and will only be more so following Trumps false claims about the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden, and the embracing of those false claims by other members of the GOP.

Trump and his allies made  and still make  false assertions that there was rampant election fraud in 2020, despite evidence to the contrary. Former Attorney General William Barr told AP there was no sign of widespread fraud. As Trump railed over the election, leaders of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency stated publicly that it was the safest election in history. One was fired by Trump shortly after.

Scores of lawsuits filed by Trump and his allies over claims of possible election fraud were dismissed by the courts, including by Trump-appointed federal judges.

Still, millions of Americans believe the 2020 election was stolen from Trump. That misinformation prompted thousands to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 in a violent but failed effort to stop the certification of Biden's win.

The discussions involving Wyman were first reported by CNN. The White House declined to comment and the Department of Homeland Security didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Wyman did not respond to a text message Monday, and her spokeswoman said they could not comment on the details of the story.

Last October, Wyman published the book Elections 2020: Controlling Chaos: How Foreign Interference, a Global Pandemic, and Political Polarization Threaten U.S. Democracy.

She was a constant presence on national networks in the weeks leading up to the 2020 election, extolling the safety and security of the vote-by-mail system in her state, a process in place there for years. She disputed Trump's claims that mail-in voting was fraudulent.

In interviews with AP before the 2020 election, Wyman said she was an elections administrator first and foremost.

If the president wants to rant and rave about how insecure vote by mail is or how our elections are going to be rigged, then Im going to talk about the security measures that Washington state put in place, she told AP in September 2020. And Im going to spend my time talking about the facts, and no, Im not going to get mired down in some sort of political debate and posturing.

Before the states 12 members of the Electoral College cast their votes for Biden in Olympia, Washington, in December, Wyman got emotional while talking to them about the vote they were about to take.

While some people continue to question the outcome of this election, average citizens from all walks of life will step up today to exercise their responsibility to perform their constitutional duty to the best of their ability, she said. This is an important ceremony. This is the American way of governance. This is democracy in action.

Wyman has never shied away from the fact that shes a Republican, but has said she believes shes approached the job in a nonpartisan way.

Its how you do the work every day, and my job is to inspire confidence in every voter no matter if they are a staunch Democrat or a hardcore Republican, she said last year.



La Corte reported from Olympia, Washington.

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

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HART, Mich. (AP)  More than 100 people gathered Sunday in a small Michigan town to pray for the safe release of a local family among 17 members of a missionary group kidnapped by a gang in Haiti more than a week ago.

The vigil in the western Michigan community of Hart took place after a video was released Thursday showing the leader of the 400 Mawozo gang threatening to kill those abducted if his demands are not met. Haitian officials have said the gang is seeking $1 million ransom per person.

Those at Sundays vigil in a town park sang and prayed with pastors from several area churches for the safety of the missionaries.

Among those kidnapped were four children and one of their parents from a family in Hart, a town near Lake Michigan about 200 miles (321.87 kilometers) northwest of Detroit, their pastor told The Detroit News. The youngest from the family is under 10, said minister Ron Marks, who did not identify them. They arrived in Haiti earlier this month, he said.

Linda Dodge of nearby Hesperia, Michigan, said Sunday that her church congregation was shocked by the kidnapping.

The best thing we could hope for is that this family will shine so bright for Jesus among their captors, that they will terrify the captors out of doing anything to them at all, Dodge said. That that love will shine through so much, that they are just afraid to touch them in any way.

A spokesman for Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries has said the families of those kidnapped are from Amish, Mennonite and other conservative Anabaptist communities in Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Tennessee, Pennsylvania, Oregon and Ontario, Canada.

The FBI is helping Haitian authorities recover the 16 Americans and one Canadian. A Haitian human rights group said their Haitian driver also was kidnapped.



Anna Liz Nichols is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.

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

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WhatsApp leaks are splashed everywhere in bold and fear-generating headlines for everyone. A number of WhatsApp leaks have made users feel that they are in danger due to the nature of their sensitive and secret chats and they are asking, how good is WhatsApp promise of end-to-end encryption.

Can an outsider read your WhatsApp chats?

The big takeaway for WhatsApp users is that the app's security is very much enabled. WhatsApp has vowed that no outsider can check anyone's WhatsApp chats, photos, videos etc. The information is not accessible to Facebook and it is not available to WhatsApp either. only the WhatsApp sender and the receiver can read the chats. This encryption is available by default, so no one can say that it is not available to them.

Does that provide you protection from WhatsApp leaks?

WhatsApp leaks will keep happening. You too can be in danger if you do not take care about what you do on WhatsApp or how you handle your phone. You may, or may not, be in touch with criminals, you may be sending or receiving banned content or something else that is deemed illegal. And that means suspicion will fall on you by association if someone you have been chatting with on WhatsApp is caught by authorities. So, no, it will not protect you.

Who can read your WhatsApp chats?

Ultimately, all your data is stored on your phone or on your drive in the cloud. The same can be made available to government authorities on request where it is suspected there is some wrongdoing or criminal activity going on.

Then there are the other sort of WhatsApp leaks. These happen when someone gets hold of another person's phone and takes photos or screenshots of the WhatsApp chats there. This is a violation that is happening outside the realm in which WhatsApp is operating and has no control over. Anyone who purloins your smartphone when you are not looking or when you have lost it, can take screenshots of your secret data, photos, videos etc and that person can ''leak'' the information to others.

There is yet another way that WhatsApp leaks can happen. Often, WhatsApp users download apps that turn out to have malware in them. Mostly they are directed at stealing money, but they are also capable of stealing data and chats. So, whenever a WhatsApp user downloads such an app, he puts his or her privacy on the line. The downloads can happen even from safe platforms like Google Play Store, Apple App Store and others. These malware are hidden inside innocent looking apps. The latest one being on the popular Squid Game. In fact, Google has just banned as many as 150 apps from its Play Store.

Does WhatsApp read or track you?

WhatsApp itself has been accused of collecting data that its parent company Facebook wants to use for commercial purposes. This can be in the nature of usernames, phone numbers, location etc to understand the footprints left by the user in order to serve her or him targetted ads.

What you can do to avoid WhatsApp leaks

Ultimately, your safety and security is in your hands. You need to be careful about what you chat about with your friends, family and colleagues. Your chats are ultimately shared with a large number of people, including strangers. The chats can be used against you if they contain something objectionable. So, don't do these 5 things, for starters, on WhatsApp:
In this April 10, 2018, file photo, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg testifies before a joint hearing of the Commerce and Judiciary Committees on Capitol Hill in Washington. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. Credit: AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File

In March, as claims about the dangers and ineffectiveness of coronavirus vaccines spun across social media and undermined attempts to stop the spread of the virus, some Facebook employees thought they had found a way to help.

By altering how posts about vaccines are ranked in people's newsfeeds, researchers at the company realized they could curtail the misleading information individuals saw about COVID-19 vaccines and offer users posts from legitimate sources like the World Health Organization.

"Given these results, I'm assuming we're hoping to launch ASAP," one Facebook employee wrote, responding to the internal memo about the study.

Instead, Facebook shelved some suggestions from the study. Other changes weren't made until April.

When another Facebook researcher suggested disabling some comments on vaccine posts in March until the platform could do a better job of tackling anti-vaccine messages lurking in them, that proposal was ignored at the time.

Critics say the reason Facebook was slow to take action on the ideas is simple: The tech giant worried it might impact the company's profits.

"Why would you not remove comments? Because engagement is the only thing that matters," said Imran Ahmed, the CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, an internet watchdog group. "It drives attention and attention equals eyeballs and eyeballs equal ad revenue."

In an emailed statement, Facebook said it has made "considerable progress" this year with downgrading vaccine misinformation in users' feeds.

Facebook's internal discussions were revealed in disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugen's legal counsel. The redacted versions received by Congress were obtained by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press.

The trove of documents shows that in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook carefully investigated how its platforms spread misinformation about life-saving vaccines. They also reveal rank-and-file employees regularly suggested solutions for countering anti-vaccine content on the site, to no avail. The Wall Street Journal reported on some of Facebook's efforts to deal with anti-vaccine comments last month.

In this Aug. 20, 2021, file photo, protesters against vaccine and mask mandates demonstrate near the state capitol, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. Credit: AP Photo/Cedar Attanasio, File

Facebook's response raises questions about whether the company prioritized controversy and division over the health of its users.

"These people are selling fear and outrage," said Roger McNamee, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist and early investor in Facebook who is now a vocal critic. "It is not a fluke. It is a business model."

Typically, Facebook ranks posts by engagementthe total number of likes, dislikes, comments, and reshares. That ranking scheme may work well for innocuous subjects like recipes, dog photos, or the latest viral singalong. But Facebook's own documents show that when it comes to divisive public health issues like vaccines, engagement-based ranking only emphasizes polarization, disagreement, and doubt.

To study ways to reduce vaccine misinformation, Facebook researchers changed how posts are ranked for more than 6,000 users in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, and the Philippines. Instead of seeing posts about vaccines that were chosen based on their popularity, these users saw posts selected for their trustworthiness.

The results were striking: a nearly 12% decrease in content that made claims debunked by fact-checkers and an 8% increase in content from authoritative public health organizations such as the WHO or U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Those users also had a 7% decrease in negative interactions on the site.

Employees at the company reacted to the study with exuberance, according to internal exchanges included in the whistleblower's documents.

"Is there any reason we wouldn't do this?" one Facebook employee wrote in response to an internal memo outlining how the platform could rein in anti-vaccine content.

Facebook said it did implement many of the study's findingsbut not for another month, a delay that came at a pivotal stage of the global vaccine rollout.

In a statement, company spokeswoman Dani Lever said the internal documents "don't represent the considerable progress we have made since that time in promoting reliable information about COVID-19 and expanding our policies to remove more harmful COVID and vaccine misinformation."

The company also said it took time to consider and implement the changes.

In this Feb. 23, 2018, file photo, doctor Roberto Ieraci vaccinate a woman in a vaccine center in Rome. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. Credit: AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino, File

Yet the need to act urgently couldn't have been clearer: At that time, states across the U.S. were rolling out vaccines to their most vulnerablethe elderly and sick. And public health officials were worried. Only 10% of the population had received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. And a third of Americans were thinking about skipping the shot entirely, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Despite this, Facebook employees acknowledged they had "no idea" just how bad anti-vaccine sentiment was in the comments sections on Facebook posts. But company research in February found that as much as 60% of the comments on vaccine posts were anti-vaccine or vaccine reluctant.

"That's a huge problem and we need to fix it," the presentation on March 9 read.

Even worse, company employees admitted they didn't have a handle on catching those comments. And if they did, Facebook didn't have a policy in place to take the comments down. The free-for-all was allowing users to swarm vaccine posts from news outlets or humanitarian organizations with negative comments about vaccines.

"Our ability to detect (vaccine hesitancy) in comments is bad in Englishand basically non-existent elsewhere," another internal memo posted on March 2 said.

Los Angeles resident Derek Beres, an author and fitness instructor, sees anti-vaccine content thrive in the comments every time he promotes immunizations on his accounts on Instagram, which is owned by Facebook. Last year, Beres began hosting a podcast with friends after they noticed conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and vaccines were swirling on the social media feeds of popular health and wellness influencers.

Earlier this year, when Beres posted a picture of himself receiving the COVID-19 shot, some on social media told him he would likely drop dead in six months' time.

"The comments section is a dumpster fire for so many people," Beres said.

Anti-vaccine comments on Facebook grew so bad that even as prominent public health agencies like UNICEF and the World Health Organization were urging people to take the vaccine, the organizations refused to use free advertising that Facebook had given them to promote inoculation, according to the documents.

Some Facebook employees had an idea. While the company worked to hammer out a plan to curb all the anti-vaccine sentiment in the comments, why not disable commenting on posts altogether?

In this Sept. 23, 2021, file photo, Oumie Nyassi shows a video circulating on the internet and that has been confirmed as fake news of a woman claiming she was magnetized after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, in a doctor's office at Serrekunda, Gambia hospital. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. Credit: AP Photo/Leo Correa, File

"Very interested in your proposal to remove ALL in-line comments for vaccine posts as a stopgap solution until we can sufficiently detect vaccine hesitancy in comments to refine our removal," one Facebook employee wrote on March 2.

The suggestion went nowhere until mid-April, when Lever said the company stopped showing previews of popular comments on vaccine posts.

Instead, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on March 15 that the company would start labeling posts about vaccines that described them as safe.

The move allowed Facebook to continue to get high engagementand ultimately profitoff anti-vaccine comments, said Ahmed of the Center for Countering Digital Hate.

"They were trying to find ways to not reduce engagement but at the same time make it look like they were trying to make some moves toward cleaning up the problems that they caused," he said.

It's unrealistic to expect a multi-billion-dollar company like Facebook to voluntarily change a system that has proven to be so lucrative, said Dan Brahmy, CEO of Cyabra, an Israeli tech firm that analyzes social media networks and disinformation. Brahmy said government regulations may be the only thing that could force Facebook to act.

"The reason they didn't do it is because they didn't have to," Brahmy said. "If it hurts the bottom line, it's undoable."

Bipartisan legislation in the U.S. Senate would require social media platforms to give users the option of turning off algorithms tech companies use to organize individuals' newsfeeds.

Sen. John Thune, R-South Dakota, a sponsor of the bill, asked Facebook whistleblower Haugen to describe the dangers of engagement-based ranking during her testimony before Congress earlier this month.

She said there are other ways of ranking contentfor instance, by the quality of the source, or chronologicallythat would serve users better. The reason Facebook won't consider them, she said, is that they would reduce engagement.

In this Oct. 5, 2021, file photo, former Facebook data scientist Frances Haugen speaks during a hearing of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, on Capitol Hill, in Washington. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. Credit: AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File

"Facebook knows that when they pick out the content ... we spend more time on their platform, they make more money," Haugen said.

Haugen's leaked documents also reveal that a relatively small number of Facebook's anti-vaccine users are rewarded with big pageviews under the tech platform's current ranking system.

Internal Facebook research presented on March 24 warned that most of the "problematic vaccine content" was coming from a handful of areas on the platform. In Facebook communities where vaccine distrust was highest, the report pegged 50% of anti-vaccine pageviews on just 111or .016%of Facebook accounts.

"Top producers are mostly users serially posting (vaccine hesitancy) content to feed," the research found.

On that same day, the Center for Countering Digital Hate published an analysis of social media posts that estimated just a dozen Facebook users were responsible for 73% of anti-vaccine posts on the site between February and March. It was a study that Facebook's leaders in August told the public was "faulty," despite the internal research published months before that confirmed a small number of accounts drive anti-vaccine sentiment.

Earlier this month, an AP-NORC poll found that most Americans blame social media companies, like Facebook, and their users for misinformation.

But Ahmed said Facebook shouldn't just shoulder blame for that problem.

"Facebook has taken decisions which have led to people receiving misinformation which caused them to die," Ahmed said. "At this point, there should be a murder investigation."

Explore further Facebook overrun by COVID vaccine lies even as it denied fueling hesitancy, report says

 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Professor John Underhill. Credit: Heriot-Watt University

In the run-up to the COP26 global climate summit in Glasgow, John Underhill, Professor of Geoscience & Energy Transition at Heriot-Watt University, highlights the need for joined up thinking if society is going to find the optimal use of the North Sea to achieve Net Zero targets.

The UK has been highly effective in decarbonising our electricity system through the use of renewables in general and wind power in particular. The contribution made by wind power has risen four-fold in a decadefrom 5.4 GW in 2010 to 24 GW in 2019and it contributed 24.8% of UK electricity supplied in 2020, having surpassed coal in 2016 and nuclear in 2018. Although initially dominated by onshore sources, the contribution made by offshore wind installations has rapidly caught up to be roughly equal now and will provide the majority of electricity in the future.

The appetite for offshore wind remains high and there have been demands for more wind farm licenses to be awarded. The next round (Phase 4) of awards promises to be the largest yet with substantive areas of the continental shelf becoming hubs for wind energy. It is also providing a tidy income stream green energy windfall too.

Despite the undoubted positive contribution that wind has made to decarbonise the electricity system, there are unintended consequences that impact our ambition to decarbonise other sectors. In particular, since most wind farms are fixed to the sea bed, it is much harder to visualize, characterize, monitor and hence, utilize the subsurface below them, something that is required if we are to locate and evaluate safe storage sites and monitor the carbon dioxide injection needed to decarbonise the UK's industrial hubs.

Subsurface imaging is primarily through the acquisition of seismic reflection data that produces an accurate 3D "body scan" of the buried geology. The data is usually obtained by towing a long streamer of sound wave receivers. Unfortunately, wind farm installations preclude this method since it's akin to the boat and its recorders having to navigate a large "ski slalom".

The competition for offshore sea bed and subsurface "real estate" has come into sharp focus with the publication of the Net Zero Strategy and the green light for two carbon storage licenses. One of the prime sites (Endurance) that underpins the East Coast Cluster carbon store will be covered by the Hornsea-4 wind farm. As a result, it may prove necessary to use sea-bottom sound recorders, something that adds an order of magnitude of cost to the project (from 5m to 50M) meaning it and other projects may no longer be viable.

Wind farms are undoubtedly a valuable technology for the energy transition and a crucial part of our efforts to decarbonise. However, holistic, joined-up thinking is needed to ensure the best and most appropriate use is made of the sea bed and subsurface geology. A collective failure to understand the dependencies and the impacts that their blanket coverage has may rule out other promising technologies and hold back the UK's pathway to net zero.

The occurrence of wind farms and significant monitoring issue will affect our ability to build a blue hydrogen capacity because of the spatial association needed between a producing gas field, carbon store and hydrogen export route to shore (and storage), any one of which might be precluded by the competition for space.

Judicious management of the offshore areas is urgently required that involves collaboration between the regulatory bodies (Crown Estate and the Oil & Gas Authority) and the various wind farm, gas and carbon storage operators to avoid unhelpful competition. Only by doing so will the UK have choices for the low carbon technologies and re-purposing of the North Sea for the low-carbon energy transition. It is essential to get the optimal use of our offshore subsurface resources if we have any chance of achieving our net zero targets.

Explore further How to build a better wind farm
Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain

Panasonic has announced to the press that it is ready to show off its new cylindrical 4680 battery (46 millimeters wide and 80 millimeters tall), built specifically to accommodate Tesla electric vehicle (EV) requirements. In the announcement, Kazuo Tadanobu, CEO of Panasonic's Energy Company, held up one of the prototype batteries for reporters and claimed that the new battery has five times the storage capacity of previous batteries the company has made for Tesla vehicleseach is rated at 9000 mAh. He also noted that the company will not be making lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries for electric vehicles.

For many years, Panasonic has been the sole provider of batteries for Tesla's electric vehicles, but recently Elon Musk, head of Tesla, announced deals with other battery makers. In response to questions about the relationship Panasonic has with Tesla, Tadanobu claimed that it is as strong as everthe other makers will be providing the EV company with LFP batteries for Tesla's lower end vehicles.

The new battery is bigger than those Panasonic has made for Tesla up until nowit has a 46-mm diameter and is 80 mm tall. Tesla puts hundreds of them together in their vehicles as battery packs. Tadanobu claims that the batteries are 50 percent cheaper to produce, and his company expects to finish plans for mass production by March of next year, at which time they will begin delivery to Tesla. He added that the new shingle-spiral form design of the battery will allow for a 100-fold increase in production capabilities. He also noted that sales of Tesla vehicles have been so strong that the company will likely be selling as many of the batteries as they can make, claiming that development of the new battery has deepened ties with Tesla. He did not specify where the batteries will be made however. Panasonic currently operates a battery plant in Nevada for supplying its current batteries to Tesla, an advantage the company has over Chinese companies who have thus far refused to build battery factories in the U.S.

Notably, Apple Inc. has also been in talks with battery makers; the computer maker is rumored to be exploring electric vehicle manufacturing. Tadanobu declined to say whether one of those companies was Panasonic.

Explore further Ford invests in electric vehicle battery recycling company

 2021 Science X Network
Can intelligence be taught to robots? Advances in physical reservoir computing, a technology that makes sense of brain signals, could contribute to creating artificial intelligence machines that think like us.

In Applied Physics Letters, researchers from the University of Tokyo outline how a robot could be taught to navigate through a maze by electrically stimulating a culture of brain nerve cells connected to the machine.

These nerve cells, or neurons, were grown from living cells and acted as the physical reservoir for the computer to construct coherent signals.

The signals are regarded as homeostatic signals, telling the robot the internal environment was being maintained within a certain range and acting as a baseline as it moved freely through the maze.

Whenever the robot veered in the wrong direction or faced the wrong way, the neurons in the cell culture were disturbed by an electric impulse. Throughout trials, the robot was continually fed the homeostatic signals interrupted by the disturbance signals until it had successfully solved the maze task.

Robot experiments. A robot was placed on fields with obstacles and was directed toward the goal. Credit: Yuichiro Yada, Shusaku Yasuda, and Hirokazu Takahashi

These findings suggest goal-directed behavior can be generated without any additional learning by sending disturbance signals to an embodied system. The robot could not see the environment or obtain other sensory information, so it was entirely dependent on the electrical trial-and-error impulses.

"I, myself, was inspired by our experiments to hypothesize that intelligence in a living system emerges from a mechanism extracting a coherent output from a disorganized state, or a chaotic state," said co-author Hirokazu Takahashi, an associate professor of mechano-informatics.

Using this principle, the researchers show intelligent task-solving abilities can be produced using physical reservoir computers to extract chaotic neuronal signals and deliver homeostatic or disturbance signals. In doing so, the computer creates a reservoir that understands how to solve the task.

"A brain of [an] elementary school kid is unable to solve mathematical problems in a college admission exam, possibly because the dynamics of the brain or their 'physical reservoir computer' is not rich enough," said Takahashi. "Task-solving ability is determined by how rich a repertoire of spatiotemporal patterns the network can generate."

The team believes using physical reservoir computing in this context will contribute to a better understanding of the brain's mechanisms and may lead to the novel development of a neuromorphic computer.

Explore further Scientists develop the next generation of reservoir computing

More information: "Physical reservoir computing with FORCE learning in a living neuronal culture" Applied Physics Letters, 2021. Journal information: Applied Physics Letters "Physical reservoir computing with FORCE learning in a living neuronal culture", 2021. aip.scitation.org/doi/full/10.1063/5.0064771
Employees at Amazon's Staten Island location are vying to form the first union at the e-commerce colossus.

Amazon warehouse workers in New York said Monday they had filed to create a union, hoping to be the first such body recognized by the e-commerce giant six months after a similar attempt failed elsewhere.

Their effort has been closely watched as it could pave the way for further unionization in the United States at one of the world's most powerful companies.

Amazon Labor Union (ALU), the organizing group in New York that submitted the formal papers to officials, said the company is fighting the effort.

"The world is watching," said ALU head Christian Smalls, an ex-Amazon employee who sued over his dismissal and pandemic conditions at their Staten Island facility.

"This is New York. This is a union town and we got to prove it," he added, as he left the Brooklyn office for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), the federal agency in charge of labor law.

Smalls said more than 2,000 cards had been signed asking for a votebut for the election to go ahead, more than half of the New York facility's employees will need to agree.

ALU lawyer Eric Milner said the minimum number of signatures required30 percent of laborershad been reached.

He said the NLRB had set a hearing for November 15 to discuss the unionization procedure. Until then, Amazon is required to inform warehouse employees the case has been accepted.

"We're skeptical that a sufficient number of legitimate employee signatures has been secured to warrant an election," said Amazon spokeswoman Kelly Nantel.

But she added: "If there is an election, we want the voice of our employees to be heard and look forward to it."

The ALU said it is seeking "higher wages, job security, safer working conditions, more paid time off, better medical leave options, longer breaks and more."

The fresh push came after a US labor official in August recommended the results be nullified in an earlier failed effort at an Alabama warehouse, opening a possible path to a new election.

The union alleges that efforts to form the first union at a US-based Amazon facility were tainted by the company's interference.

The hearing officer recommendation is a key step towards potentially overturning the April ballot.

Explore further Amazon faces new union organizing push in US

 2021 AFP
The field of eight candidates vying to be Brunswicks next mayor was reduced to two on Nov. 2 with Cosby Johnson and Ivan Figueroa emerging from the pack to qualify for the runoff.
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Gu, who has been in the district since 2012, said as a school board member, she would like to take a close look at the budget and see the strengths and weaknesses to determine how they can get the best bang for the buck and identify areas of improvement.

Ege, who graduated from Texas A&M and moved back to College Station in 2015, said during Leadership CSISD she was struck by a former trustee speaking about purchasing the land that was not near anything at the time, because that land was used for College Station High School, which is where her son is now a freshman.

I just want to be a part of keeping the focus on students, she said. Theres a lot of things out there that are going on in school boards, going on in school districts, but in the end, I really actually care a lot about kids and want to be sure that whatever decisions are made have a focus back on them. I know that the districts still growing, and I think those decisions are really important. They may not affect my kids because mine are going to be done in seven-and-a-half years, but its really important to lay the groundwork for the next set of students that are going to come through.
Dennis Maloney stuck his foot in his mouth again. That is one of the reasons I like him as a person and as an elected official.

Dennis says what is on his mind in an unfiltered way. Oh, I agree that what he said could seem offensive unless you know even a little about Dennis.

For those who dont know, Councilman Maloney referenced places in Texas with lower taxes that are primarily on the border by saying, in Spanish, that you have to be able to speak Spanish there. The real travesty is the nature of the attack against him.

Some in the development community have called for Councilman Maloney to resign. The development community opposes him because he is committed to what is best for the residents of College Station as a whole, even when it is not convenient for the business interests of those developers.
Now that shes a U.S. citizen, Evelin Chavez is proud of herself. But she sounds even happier that her three children have more safety, security and brighter futures in the U.S. than they would have had in her native Guatemala.

Chavez, a 51-year-old Grand Island woman, became an American citizen on Friday. She was one of 36 people who were naturalized at the Chief Standing Bear statue in Lincolns Centennial Mall.

U.S. District Judge John Gerrard presided over the ceremony, and a courtroom deputy administered the Oath of Allegiance. The group of new citizens came from 22 countries, according to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Chavez, a native of Guatemala City, came to the United Stateswhen she was 32. She has been a Nebraska resident since 2006, and has lived in Grand Island since 2011.

She has two sons, who are 26 and 24, and a 12-year-old daughter.

Chavez says she loves this country because it is safe for her kids, especially here in Nebraska. Everyone in this country has rights, she said. She is not afraid to go outside, or to visit her children.
Honestly I do not buy off eBay simply because I dont have the financial means to compete with big time collectors on either of the coasts, who seem to have an unlimited money supply.

Incidentally, Halloween collectibles are easier to find on the East Coast, and to a degree on the West Coast, Hanssen said, due to how early the regions were populated (more people in early years means more items from early years) and the financial status of the populations.

There wasnt a large enough population here with a more disposable income to spend on these items, Hanssen said.

Collectors need to be careful, he said.

With any collectible there are reproductions being made. Its a matter of knowing. You have to really know what youre collecting in order to spot those reproductions, because theyve been making those since the 80s, Hanssen said. There are diehard collectors who get fooled  these people are taking so much time (to make reproductions). I have no problem with new stuff looking like old, but I think somehow it should be marked so that collectors and/or novice collectors are able to tell the difference.

For those who want to start collecting Halloween decorations, Hanssen said to start simple and with what you know.
Individuals have donated enough miles and credit card points to cover 20,000 flights, according to the organizers.

It is incredibly inspiring to see the American people and American companies coming together to welcome our new Afghan neighbors in this way, said Nazanin Ash, a former State Department official during the Bush and Obama administrations and now the CEO of Welcome.US, a new not-for-profit coalition that is trying to generate private-sector support for arriving Afghans.

The organizers are looking to raise enough additional donations to pay for another 30,000 flights. Using donated miles and cash to pay for travel will free up government refugee aid for housing and other services, organizers say.

Historically, the evacuees typically pay for their own travel. That is quite a burden to be putting on people who come (to the U.S.) with very little, said former Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, who is President Joe Bidens point person on aiding the Afghan refugees and is also Bidens nominee for ambassador to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.
A Colorado rescue team has some simple advice for lost hikers or anyone else who might find themselves stranded in the mountains -- answer your phone.

Lake County Search and Rescue says it got a report last week that a hiker hadn't returned from a hike on Mount Elbert. The hiker had set out at 9 a.m. on October 18 and wasn't back at 8 p.m., LCSAR said in a post on its Facebook page.

Rescuers tried to call the person's cell phone multiple times, but weren't able to reach them.

Five LCSAR team members looked for the hiker in areas where people tend to get lost, but called off the search at 3 a.m. A three-person search team checked another area at 7 a.m.

They got a call at about 9:30 a.m. that the hiker, who was not identified, had returned to where they were staying.

The hiker had no idea that rescuers were looking for them, the post said.
McClain said she's met with some of the fallen service members' parents and families.

"It makes them feel good, for lack of better words. It's a nice way to honor them," she said. "Quite honestly, it's hard. It's still fresh in their hearts. To know their memory and legacy will live on, they're extremely grateful to know that their loved ones didn't pass in vain, and that they're appreciated.

"In a time when there's so much partisanship, it really makes you feel good to know that not everything is partisan," she added.

The day before the attack, the U.S. State Department had warned of a "credible" threat at the Kabul airport, urging people to leave the area. Those gathered at the gates were hoping to make one of the last evacuation flights out of the country.

"The American service members went above and beyond the call of duty to protect citizens of the United States and our allies to ensure they are brought to safety in an extremely dangerous situation as the Taliban regained control over Afghanistan," the bill says.

"The American service members exemplified extreme bravery and valor against armed enemy combatants. The American service members dedicated their lives and their heroism deserves great honor."
Education & Technology Trends

Digital Promise Research Project to Focus on Digital Learning at Scale

Education innovator Digital Promise has launched a new network that's intended to inspire research on digital learning at scale in both K-12 and higher education. SEERNet is a five-year program with a model that differs from the traditional approach of research. Rather than beginning with small collections of data from local groups of students, SEERNet will begin with data generated on learning platforms already in use by 100,000 or more students.

The project is being funded by the U.S. Department of Education's Institute of Education Sciences, under its competitive grant program, "Research Networks Focused on Critical Problems of Policy and Practice."

This particular network will be led by Jeremy Roschelle, executive director of learning sciences research at Digital Promise.

The network will include five platform teams, each led by its own principal investigator:

An Arizona State University team will develop a digital learning network platform with the capacity to connect, access and examine undergraduate student data and courses within the scope of ASU Online, encompassing both online courses and digital classrooms.

An Instructure team will produce Terracotta, a plug-in to Canvas that lets a teacher or researcher collect informed consent, assign different versions of online learning activities to students and export deidentified study data.

An OpenStax Learning Platform team will build OpenStax Labs, a rapid iteration and testing learning environment integrated with the OpenStax open educational resources digital platform, allowing for faster research at scale, focusing on insights for improving outcomes that lead to equitable student success.

A team for MATHia, a digital learning platform for supporting instruction in middle and high school math, will integrate MATHia with UpGrade, an open-source platform that supports fair and rigorous randomized field trials that compare innovative practices with current approaches.

A team for the ASSISTments digital learning platform will expand its infrastructure to allow researchers to run studies using OER within ASSISTments.

SEERNet will receive $3 million; and each of the organizations that make up the network will receive $2 million.

"Research on learning during the pandemic is making it crystal clear that today's large-scale digital learning is not equitable. For example, Black students, Latino students and low-income students faced greater barriers to mathematics learning before the pandemic, and this only intensified during the pandemic," said Roschelle, in a statement. "To achieve equitable digital learning, we need to not only bring evidence-based learning technologies to scale  we also need to shift researchers' attention away from designing novel but small-scale technologies, to investigating how we can improve learning on the large-scale digital platforms that students already use frequently."

"We hope that this work will increase the relevance of the research questions asked, enhance the potential for improving education practice, and most importantly, lead to the improvement of learner outcomes," added Mark Schneider, director of the Institute of Education Sciences.

Digital Promise will also work with Empirical Education, a research and development company that will bring its education-focused research, data analysis, engineering and project management expertise to the project.
Klark Byrd is the managing editor of The Paris News. He can be reached at 903-785-6960 or klark.byrd@theparisnews.com.

David Money is the assistant managing editor of The Paris News. He can be reached at 903-785-6964 or david.money@theparisnews.com
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Theres been increasing confusing over the legality of delta-8, a cannabis derivative that can be found in vape cartridges, tinctures and candy at smoke shops and CBD stores in Texas. While the Texas health department maintains that delta-8 is a controlled substance and is on the states list of unlawful drugs, the 2018 federal Farm Bill legalized the production of hemp, which naturally contains delta-8 and has less than 0.3% THC. In 2019, Texas also legalized hemp growing. Delta-8 retailers believed the substance was as legal to sell as hemp. Delta-8 is legal in Texas for now after a Travis County judge blocked the state from criminalizing it. Should delta-8 continue to be legal in Texas?

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Cases of COVID-19 at Southern Illinois higher education institutions are on the decline. Paired with increasing vaccination rates among students and employees, recent numbers are an encouraging sign, say university and college leaders.

The news at Southern Illinois University Carbondale is good  so much so that SIU Chancellor Austin A. Lane sent an email to students Friday thanking them for their efforts.

In the email obtained by The Southern, Lane reported that more than 80% of SIU employees and 75% of students are fully vaccinated. Those not fully vaccinated are required to weekly testing for COVID-19.

The universitys COVID-19 data website reports the institution tested 1,508 individuals during the week of Oct. 11 (the most recent reported period) with four positive cases. SIU reported seven and six positive cases respectively in the two weeks prior. By comparison, 39 positive cases were reported for the week beginning Aug. 30 based on 381 tests.

Although the pandemic is still with us, we have many reasons for hope, Lane wrote in the email. Positive COVID cases on our campus have been in the single digits for the past few weeks.

Lane shared with the students that Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has moved Jackson County into substantial transmission, down from significant transmission. Most counties in the region remain at the higher transmission level. CDC data shows Jackson County with a case positivity rate of just under 2% and 68.72 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 residents. The CDC reports a 51.85% decline in cases over the past week.

At John A. Logan College, instances of positive cases are on the decline, too. The college reports only two cases of COVID-19 among students for the week of Oct. 15, with three the prior week. John A. Logan College has reported just one employee testing positive since Sept. 23.

We continue to follow the mask mandate and require weekly testing for the non-vaccinated. I could not be more pleased with our effort, and the results that I believe are contributing to the decrease in COVID cases across southern Illinois, JALC President Kirk Overstreet said.

Shawnee Community College reported no positive cases of COVID-19 during the first week of October. In total over the three most-recent reporting periods, Shawnee has had a total of six positive cases, including four students, one employee and on contractual services staff member.

Twelve Rend Lake College students have tested positive for COVID-19 over the last three weeks, with three of those cases being described as active. The college reports no positive test results for employees this month.

All of the institutions have held in-person classes during the fall semester, requiring students to submit proof of vaccination status or undergo regular COVID-19 testing.

This is no time to let down our guard, Lane said in his email to SIU students. We all must continue to take precautions such as wearing face masks in shared outdoor spaces, social distancing when possible and washing our hands.

Lanes email also shared encouragement  and a warning.

If COVID has taught us anything, it is to keep a close watch on the situation and be ready to adapt our plans quickly. Still, we can look to the future with cautious optimism, he wrote.

Booster shots available

The campus COVID declines come as booster doses of COVID-19 vaccines are becoming more available.

The Jackson County Health Department announced Monday that it has booster shots available for all manufacturers vaccines. According to the CDC, those who received the Moderna or Pfizer vaccination more than six months ago are eligible for a booster shot if they are 65 or older, live or work in a high-risk setting or are at high-risk for COVID-19 because of underlying medical conditions.

Those who initially received the one-shot Johnson & Johnson dose more than two months ago also may receive a booster.

The Egyptian Health Department, which serves Gallatin, Saline and White Counties, has been offering booster shots since mid-August.

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Negotiations between Illinois largest public employee union and Gov. J.B. Pritzkers administration will resume through an outside arbitrator after the two sides couldnt come to terms on an order requiring workers at congregate care facilities to either get vaccinated against COVID-19 or be tested regularly, Pritzkers office said Monday.

The impasse affects more than 10,000 employees who work in state prisons and juvenile justice facilities and are represented by the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Council 31. An independent arbitrator has been brought in to decide on labor issues stemming from Pritzkers mandate.

Pritzker has twice extended the deadline for state workers at congregate facilities to be fully vaccinated since issuing his order in early August, most recently pushing it back to Nov. 30  nearly two months after the original target.

AFSCME, which hasnt previously responded to requests for comment on negotiations over the vaccine mandate, on Monday said in a statement that it has secured paid time off for employees who contract the virus, must quarantine due to exposure, or have to care for a dependent who is sick or quarantined, as well as an added personal day off for employees who are fully vaccinated.

Pritkzers administration said Monday it has reached an agreement on the vaccine order with about 7,800 workers represented by AFSCME who work in the states Department of Human Services and in Veterans Affairs.

With those agreements, almost 10,000 state employees who work in congregate facilities are now in line with Pritzkers vaccination order, the governors office said.

Our most vulnerable residents, such as those veterans who cant live . . . on their own and adults living with developmental disabilities, have no choice but to live among workers at these facilities, Pritzker said Monday during a news conference on pediatric coronavirus vaccinations. They deserve the safest possible homes that we can provide, and that includes the protection of a vaccinated community. It is the most effective infection control measure that we have.

During last years massive fall surge, Pritzker came under fire for his administrations handling of a coronavirus outbreak at the state-run veterans home in LaSalle County that killed 36 residents. Those deaths came before vaccines were widely available.

Pritzker on Friday issued an executive order requiring workers in state-licensed day care centers to be vaccinated or undergo weekly testing. The state estimated the order applies to about 55,000 workers at nearly 2,900 day care centers licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.

The Dec. 3 deadline for day care workers to get their first shot is followed by a requirement that they get their second dose of the two-shot Pfizer or Moderna vaccines by Jan. 3. Any worker who is not fully vaccinated  having received both doses of the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or a single dose of Johnson & Johnsons vaccine  by Dec. 3 will have to undergo weekly testing.

Pritzker has continued to face pushback from the Legislatures Republican minority, who criticize the Democratic governor for acting unilaterally in response to the pandemic. A group of Republican women in the state Senate last week called the vaccine mandate for day care workers an attack on working mothers as they resume a more normal work schedule.

While hospital systems in the state have seen hundreds of workers quit over vaccine requirements, which in many cases are stricter than Pritzkers order, hospitals say the overwhelming majority of employees complied.

A federal judge has scheduled a Tuesday hearing on a request for a temporary restraining order blocking Pritzkers vaccine mandate for health care workers, along with Chicagos mandate for city workers.

Dan Petrella reported from Chicago.
Illinois is expecting an initial allotment of about 500,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11, once the shots are authorized for that group  with pediatricians and schools expected to play a big role in the vaccine administration, Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Monday.

More than 2,200 locations and providers statewide have signed up to offer the shots to children ages 5 to 11, including more than 700 pediatric and family practices, more than 700 pharmacy locations, about 100 urgent care locations, 112 local health departments and public health clinics, among others.

A U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory committee is expected to meet Tuesday to discuss authorization of the Pfizer vaccine for kids ages 5 to 11. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory committee is then scheduled to meet Nov. 2 and 3 to consider it  meaning kids could start getting shots as early as next week. The Pfizer vaccine is already authorized for kids ages 12 and older.

Many Illinois pediatricians are gearing up to offer the shots in their offices  a shift that doctors and parents hope will make the process easier for skittish children.

Giving a vaccine to a kid is very different from giving a vaccine to a teenager who can sit still and understand, yes, its going to hurt briefly, but I need you to stay calm and not move, said Dr. Hollis Redmon, a pediatrician at Advocate Childrens Medical Group Naperville. Hopefully children react a little better because theyre in a slightly more familiar environment than if they were to be taken to a large gym.

The expanded vaccination effort would come to an age group that saw a sizeable rise in detected cases during the last surge. For the first time this pandemic, there were more COVID-19 cases confirmed in kids ages 5 to 11 than those 12-17, and there were more cases in the younger age group during the last surge as there was during the fall 2020 surge.

Part of the reason pediatricians will be able to give the shots is because the vaccine may be easier to handle, logistically, than those for adults. The childrens Pfizer vaccine is formulated differently than the one for adults. Kids will receive one-third the dose that adults received, and the childrens doses will be available in smaller packages. The new formulation can also be stored for longer in a regular freezer  10 weeks versus 31 days for the current one.

Also, some pediatricians have been offering the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine in their offices to kids ages 12 and older in recent months, giving them the experience necessary to roll out shots quickly for younger kids, doctors say.

Dr. Akanksha Hannas pediatric office, Advocate Medical Group Yacktman Pediatrics in Park Ridge, has vaccinated about 200 kids ages 12 and older since early August.

I think most families Ive been speaking with are so excited to have it in the office, Hanna said. If youve ever taken your kids some place they didnt expect to go, and theyre also supposed to get something unpleasant done, I think theyd much rather be in a more familiar setting.

Also, she added, pediatricians offices are accustomed to giving shots to young children every day.

Vaccinations, quite honestly, its what pediatricians do, she said.

Redmon has seen children fling themselves on the floor, try to run away or attempt to bargain when they know a needle is coming, said the Advocate Naperville pediatrician.

Do (medical assistants) get kicked on a regular basis? Yes, Redmon said. Are they still able to keep their hands steady with that injection? Yes.

Still, she cautions that childrens fear of shots shouldnt deter parents from getting them vaccinated.

I always say, These vaccines hurt you more than they hurt your child,  Redmon said. Its that quick pain for potentially long-lasting safety.

Advocate Childrens Hospitals nearly 100 pediatricians will likely begin giving the vaccines to children ages 5 to 11 shortly after theyre approved, said Dr. Frank Belmonte, chief medical officer. Advocate hopes to expand in-office vaccinations to many of its 400 affiliated pediatricians soon as well, he said.

Loyola Medicine hopes to begin administering the vaccine to kids in its pediatric and COVID-19 clinics within a few days of the CDC committees decision, said Dr. Neil Gupta, chief medical officer for Loyola Medical Group, in a news release.

Children will also have other options, besides pediatricians, for receiving the shots.

Childrens hospitals, pediatricians and local health departments expect to work with schools to offer vaccination clinics for kids at schools, outside of regular school hours. The state health department is overseeing outreach to 756 elementary school districts to offer vaccination clinics on school grounds, the governors office said.

And, in Illinois, pharmacies are allowed to vaccinate children ages 3 and older.

Representatives of Walgreens and CVS Health say they plan to start vaccinating younger kids once the vaccines are authorized, with Walgreens saying in a statement its team members have extensive experience vaccinating children and adolescents.

Some parents may prefer to take their kids to pharmacies for vaccinations if they think their children can sit calmly through a shot  or for the convenience.

I think theres going to be a lot of motivation for families to get their children vaccinated quickly, and if theyre able to get it done as a walk-in to a neighborhood, commercial pharmacy late at night or on a weekend, the convenience of that may outweigh a parents desire to go to their pediatricians office, said Dr. Larry Kociolek, medical director of infection prevention and control at Lurie.

Lurie plans to begin giving the shots to kids at its main hospital shortly after theyre authorized, as well as work with schools and community groups to set up other clinics. Some of Lurie Childrens partner pediatric practices will also likely offer the vaccine to younger kids, but smaller practices may face challenges doing so, such as not having the staff or infrastructure to ramp up quickly, Kociolek said.

Parent Kristin Hawksworth, of Orland Park, has called her pediatricians office a couple of times to see if theyve opened up appointments. But she said shell take her 11-year-old daughter Ruby wherever she can get in first, whether that be her pediatricians office, a pharmacy or a community clinic.

Her daughter doesnt love shots, but she can handle it, especially knowing how important this one is, she said.

Ruby is the last member of their five-person family who is unvaccinated. Though Hawksworth, her husband and their two older children are vaccinated, theyve been careful in recent months in hopes of protecting Ruby. Theyve avoided travel and arent eating indoors at restaurants.

Weve just been watching and waiting, Hawksworth said. Shes excited for this one because I think she knows what it changes, just for our family.

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Seven Deere workers gathered around two fire barrels at the corner of Airport Road and the main gate of the John Deere Parts Distribution Center in Milan.

Rain over the weekend turned the grass to mud, and puddles formed in the decompressed ground that held the tents of food and supplies. Bundled in hats, sweatshirts and gloves, the UAW members clutched their blue and white signs as cars passed, some honking in support. The signs, getting soaked by the rain, fell off their wooden handles and onto the ground.

As the UAW strike against John Deere continues into its twelfth day, workers in Illinois worried about potential injunctions as the weather turns colder. They also worried about a week without regular salary pay, because it's still too early for strike pay.

Deere is counting on us to run out of money before them, that's true, said David Schmelzer, a union member outside of the Milan plant Monday morning. What they aren't counting on is our commitment to this strike and our ability to outlast them."

As Deere records record-high profits this past year, union members went on strike for higher wages and better retirement benefits. But to negotiate for higher wages, workers have to forgo them temporarily and walk a picket line.

The UAW told members to start saving a year and a half before contract negotiations began, according to a union member. It is typical for unions to ask their members to prepare financially for a possible strike by asking them to put away money from each paycheck. Having members have the financial security to survive a strike gives the union better bargaining power in negotiations.

One Deere worker, who remained anonymous for fear of retribution, said poor treatment helped union members save money before the strike.

Deere has been forcing us to work a lot of overtime making it fairly easy to save over the last year especially, the worker said.

Three to six months cushion

Financial advisors typically recommend having enough savings to pay for essential expenses for three to six months, according to Zach Edwards, a financial advisor at Revolarc. But certain factors can make it more difficult for some employees to save.

Specifically, savings should increase depending on how many family members rely on that income, Edwards said. Single people will probably be fine with closer to three months of savings, while a family of five will need to save for at least six months or so.

I don't have kids, but I heard they're expensive, Edwards said. There's more potential for things that could come up.

Kids arent the only dependents to think about, according to Liquan Wang, professor of finance at St. Ambrose University. Many middle-aged adults handle some financial responsibility for their parents, whether it is regular payments to a nursing home or paying for in-home care. Parents of college-aged children may have regular loan payments and tuition and room and board expenses, even though the children are adults, over the age of 18.

The higher the number of dependents a family has, the more pressure and stress for more savings, Wang said.

Another Deere worker said his family prepared for the strike by tightening their budget over the year and a half leading up to the strike. They set money aside and avoided unnecessary purchases. He thinks his family of four is set to ride out the strike.

The union worker said being cautious with spending before and throughout the strike will be worth it in the long run to achieve higher wages.

It's obviously to better my life, my wife's life, my kids life, you know, and to keep everything running the way we want to, the Deere worker said. You keep going forward.

The other Deere worker also reported cutting down on streaming services, going out to eat, and club subscriptions.

Edwards said most Deere employees already know which expenses are essential and can determine which ones to prioritize. But it might become more challenging to shave off non essential spending depending on how long the strike goes.

Theyll probably have to go back to that time where we had after the shutdown where we were trying to make do in our houses with what we had, Edwards said.

Strike pay on Day 15

Workers will be eligible for $275 weekly strike pay from the UAW on the 15th day of the strike on Oct. 28, according to the UAW website. To qualify for strike pay, members must be up-to-date on their dues, participating in the strike, and on active payroll at the start of the strike.

One of the union workers said the strike pay will help for a time but since it is significantly lower than employees regular income, it will still be difficult to survive if the strike goes on for an extended period of time.

We are productive individuals so most of us aren't satisfied with just sitting around and not advancing our finances, the worker said.

The worker said most of the employees on strike are looking for temporary employment to supplement their incomes. If members receive gross pay from outside work that is equal or greater to the strike assistance, they will not receive that benefit, according to the UAW.

How long will it go?

It is difficult to save for a strike without knowing the exact time frame, according to Edwards. The last Deere strike in 1986 lasted for 163 days.

You could go on a couple more weeks or go on a couple more months, said Edwards. When the unknown factor of it is time it's hard to quantify that.

The Covid-19 pandemic has already put some families in a precarious financial situation, with layoffs or furloughs eating into savings. Medical costs can still be a burden on families even with insurance, according to Edwards. The Derecho in August of 2020 caused damage to peoples property and homes, most commonly downed trees and electrical wires, that would be expensive to fix even when combined with homeowners insurance.

Surprise costs that are out of your control are always a risk to wealth, like a health crisis or major car repairs, he said.

There are other curveballs that life could throw at our way, Edwards said. We've experienced a lot of those over the last year and a half here. That's what's hard to say, how much an expense is going to be or how long (savings) are going to last.

One union worker worked with his credit union to defer mortgage and car loan payments until full employment is restored. Some banks and other institutions have special promotions to assist families and employees while on strike

For example, GreenState Credit Union offers $1,000 interest free loans to the 1,800 Deere employees who have accounts with them, according to Jim Kelly, chief marketing officer. Eligible workers will have 12 months to pay the loan back.

Kelly said he hopes that helps families manage the disruption of income.

Sometimes disruptions to income can lead to more dependence on debt, and unfortunately that typically means high-rate credit cards, Kelly said. We want to help remove that cost and keep folks out of the high expense debt trap.

While Edwards acknowledges that some individuals are unable to afford a financial planner, or may feel uncomfortable seeking help, he said that Excel or Google Sheets are a great way to track expenses. Free videos on YouTube help people learn to use the software and design a system that works best for them.

If the strike lasts into the holidays, union workers might have to shift their holiday travel plans due to the price of airline tickets or climbing fuel prices.

It could jeopardize trips when people are looking to go home for the holidays, Edwards said.

The workers agreed they are willing to stick out the strike financially, even if that means getting another job or not being able to see family and friends as much as they would like this year.

We've saved enough to keep us going for quite a while, one worker said.

As the strike continues into the second full week, Edwards hopes that it is resolved soon, not just to support employees but also the Quad-Cities community.

It helps everybody, it lifts up the overall financial health of the area, Edwards said.

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BLOOMINGTON  The recent opening of an Illinois Wesleyan University time capsule drew attention to some of the history preserved in area buildings. There is still plenty left to unearth though, with at least 19 time capsules still in place between IWU and Illinois State University.

Five time capsules have been opened between the two universities in the last 10 years. That includes from Mark Evans Observatory and Memorial Gymnasium at IWU and at ISU from University High School and two from the South Campus complex.

Almost all of the time capsules are in cornerstones of buildings and meant to be opened at some unset point in the future, often when the building is demolished.

It makes sense now that we have done the research and know, Hey theres a cornerstone, theres probably something in there, said ISU Archivist April Anderson-Zorn.

One from the Mark Evans Observatory was not in good shape, said IWU archivist Meg Miner. It had been filled with memorabilia of the space age and placed by astronaut Frank Borman. When it was placed in 1969, the plan was to open in in 1976.

Unfortunately the contents included a battery and a candy bar from Beichs Candy meant to have a long shelf-life for astronauts. Fifty years were too much and all that was left was the wrapper, Miner said.

ISU has also had a time capsule go bad. When the South Campus dormitories were demolished, two time capsules were found. The first was in Hamilton-Whitten. When Anderson-Zorn was finally able to hold it, she was concerned.

You think you would feel (the contents) moving around but nothing was moving, she said. ( Inside) it was like a sponge.

Water had gotten into the copper box, leaving the papers and other soft materials, dating from the late 1950s, a mess.

The other South Campus time capsule, from Atkin-Colby, was more of a success. The placers did end up having to slice the edge off of a yearbook to make it fit in the box.

Her experiences with the two time capsules led Anderson-Zorn to create a standardized response to the discovery of a time capsule, including making sure facilities workers and contractors know about them. An unexpected metal box while demolishing a building could cause problems.

We want them to be safe in what theyre doing, she said.

The oldest materials between the two campuses are likely in a time capsule in Centennial East on the ISU campus. A time capsule was put in Old Main at some point during its construction, which finished in 1860, Anderson-Zorn said. The contents from that time capsule are now in the Centennial East time capsule, though she does have a list of what was in it.

One of the newest is in State Farm Hall at Wesleyan, built in 2013. The building is the most recent on campus as well. IWU also has one of the oldest ones still in place. The Science Building had one placed in 1910.

Miner is really interested into how the time capsules are created to tell a narrative, she said. The one from Mark Evans Observatory told the story of science and area companies.

Memorial Gymnasium, which became Hansen Student Center, was dedicated to the Wesleyan men who served in World War I, Miner said. However, the materials in time capsule focused on the university's relationship with the community, including a large fundraising effort to keep the school in Bloomington.

The one opened in 2011 from Sheean Library included materials from not just the library but the school of nursing and the art department as well.

"They clearly wanted Sheean Library to reflect all of campus," Miner said.

While there are no immediate plans to open any of the time capsules on either campus, plans for upcoming renovations and new buildings on both campuses could lead to some time capsules being opened in coming years, Miner and Anderson-Zorn said.

Miner discovered a forgotten time capsule just earlier this month, she said. For the most part, she learns about time capsules on campus while doing other research, often from programs for dedication events.

If a question comes up, the first place Ill go is the building files, she said.

Anderson-Zorn has mostly learned about time capsules on campus from excited alumni. She has heard a rumor of one being buried by students from Walker Hall, but getting to it could be difficult.

If it exists, its probably under the Student Rec Center, she said.

Contact Connor Wood at (309)820-3240. Follow Connor on Twitter: @connorkwood

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Two 19-year-old Orangeburg men have been charged in the shooting that left two women dead and another injured.

Trevon Tyriek Dixon, of Louise Drive, and Dimonte Jashon Fields, of Ellis Avenue, are both facing two counts each of murder and attempted murder in the Sept. 12 shooting outside Orangeburg.

Earlier this month, Orangeburg County Sheriffs Office deputies arrested Jamore Makel Ellison, 18, of 1753 B St., Orangeburg. Hes facing the same charges as his co-defendants.

The shooting occurred as four women were leaving a Coleman Avenue party in a Honda, according to the sheriffs office.

Witnesses reported seeing an SUV cut off the Honda.

Two people exited the SUV and opened fire.

We havent stopped since that initial call came in early that morning, Sheriff Leroy Ravenell said in a release.

We have followed the leads until we came up with these two being there during this senseless and tragic shooting, he said.

Ellison and Dixon are accused of shooting firearms. Fields is accused of driving them.

Fields is also accused of being armed during the encounter.

His warrant accuses him of driving multiple co-defendants to search for a vehicle they believed was occupied by a rival subject.

Fields allegedly followed the Honda and then pulled out in front of it.

This enabled the co-defendants to fire multiple times into the vehicle, the warrant alleges.

Fields then drove the shooters away, warrants claim.

Candice Brown, 35 and Jessica Johnson, 39, both of Orangeburg, were killed in the incident.

A third woman sustained a gunshot wound to the arm.

A fourth woman in the Honda was not physically injured.

Law enforcement officers took Fields into custody at his home around 7 a.m. Friday, according to an Orangeburg Department of Public Safety incident report.

The U.S. Marshals Service and sheriffs office had Fields in custody and sitting on the front lawn when ODPS officers arrived to assist them.

The report alleges that Fields attempted to flee law enforcement by jumping through a closed window and once he made it out of the window, a U.S. Marshal tased Mr. Fields in order to subdue him.

Orangeburg County EMS arrived at the scene, but Fields refused medical attention.

Dixon has been held at the Orangeburg County Detention Center since Sept. 24 on charges of third-degree criminal sexual conduct.

Hes accused of sexually forcing himself on a woman back on Sept. 19, according to a sheriffs office incident report.

The woman said she told the man to stop multiple times. The woman went to the Regional Medical Center for treatment once the man left.

Dixon is also has a pending charge of possession of 28 grams or less of marijuana.

Dixon and Fields appeared for arraignment hearings before Orangeburg County Magistrate Stephanie McKune-Grant on Monday afternoon.

A circuit court judge may consider setting bonds on Fields, Ellison and Dixon at a later date.

If convicted of murder, they each face up to life in prison.

Ravenell said the investigation is ongoing.

Contact the writer: mbrown@timesanddemocrat.com or 803-533-5545. Follow on Twitter: @MRBrownTandD

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COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  Attorneys in three different civil lawsuits against Alex Murdaugh want the court to have independent representatives take control of the money and other assets of the South Carolina lawyer involved in a half-dozen state police investigations.

The court motions in the cases, all filed last week, said they fear Murdaugh is trying to hide millions of dollars they could possibly collect in their lawsuits by shifting money between unknown accounts and potentially selling off property and a boat after he turned all his affairs over to his surviving son, Buster Murdaugh.

State police first started investigating Alex Murdaugh and his family in June, when he found his wife and other son shot to death at their home. No one has been charged in that case.

The similar motions in the three lawsuits include several documents: a photo of Buster Murdaugh that lawyers said was taken in October at a Las Vegas casino; a nearly $1 million mortgage a property owner paid off to Alex Murdaugh; an online listing asking $114,000 for Murdaugh's boat; and a nearly 2-year-old unpaid tax bill that could lead to the auction of Murdaugh's beach home on Edisto Island.

Murdaugh's attorneys have not responded to the request to have two lawyers review and catalog all of Murdaugh's assets, bank accounts, insurance policies and expenditures and approve his spending.

Alex Murdaugh has engaged in repeated dishonesty, deception and fraud. He has shown that he will go to extraordinary lengths to misappropriate, steal, transfer or otherwise dispose of money in a manner that benefits him or his family, with complete disregard for the interests of third persons, the lawyers wrote in their motions.

Two of the lawsuits involve a fatal February 2019 boat crash where Paul Murdaugh was charged after investigators said he was driving drunk and recklessly. They were filed by the family of a 19-year-old woman killed and a man on the boat who said the Murdaugh family tried to pin him as the boat's driver.

The third lawsuit asking for control of Murdaugh's money was filed by the family of Murdaugh's late housekeeper Gloria Satterfield. She died after a 2018 fall in the family's home.

Murdaugh has been charged with illegally pocketing nearly $3 million worth of insurance settlements that was supposed to go to Satterfields estate.

At his bond hearing, prosecutors detailed how Murdaugh stole the money by diverting it to his accounts. They said he then paid off a $100,000 credit card bill, transferred more than $300,000 to his father and $735,000 to himself.

The lawsuits noted well over half the settlement money remained unaccounted for in the prosecution's presentation.

Certainly, if Alex Murdaugh is capable of apparently diverting stolen assets in this manner, he is also capable of diverting legitimate assets," the attorneys wrote in their lawsuits.

Murdaugh, 53, was first arrested Sept. 16 and was accused of trying to arrange his own death so Buster Murdaugh could collect a $10 million life insurance policy. That same day, the father signed a power of attorney for all his affairs over to his son, according to court records.

While the power of attorney may have some legitimate purposes for someone unable to manage their own finances, the power of attorney also provides a mechanism for Buster Murdaugh to transfer, sell or otherwise handle Alex Murdaughs assets in a manner that diverts the assets," the motion said.

On Sept. 23, someone who owed a nearly $1 million mortgage to Alex Murdaugh from 2013 paid it off. Records don't indicate how much money changed hands.

The motions also include a photo that the lawyers said is Buster Murdaugh at a gambling table at the Venetian Hotel in October. The documents don't say how the photo was obtained.

In addition to the investigations into the stolen insurance money and the insurance fraud, state police continue to investigate the shooting deaths, millions of dollars missing from Murdaugh's former law firm that was founded by his great-grandfather, a 2015 hit-and-run death and whether Murdaugh and his family obstructed the investigation into the boat crash.

Murdaugh insists he had nothing to do with the June deaths of his wife, Maggie, 52, and their son Paul, 22. Murdaugh said he returned to their rural Colleton County home to find them shot to death. Tight-lipped state police have neither named any suspects nor ruled anyone out.

Murdaugh remains in jail without bond on the charges he stole money from his late housekeeper's estate. A judge last week asked for a report on Murdaugh's mental state before considering whether to set bond.



Follow Jeffrey Collins on Twitter at https://twitter.com/JSCollinsAP.

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

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Ignorance is bliss. This statement characterizes the motto of the majority of Americas corporate news media.

Crisis at the border! Media: None that we can see.

Islamic terrorists torturing and murdering thousands in Afghanistan! Media: Afghanistan is no longer in the news cycle.

Grocery and gasoline prices are surging higher while store shelves empty out! Media: Todays economic problems are high class problems.

Fox News celebrated 25 years of news coverage recently. They were late to the cable news game but quickly grew a base of viewers that more than doubles all other cable news channels combined. Nevertheless, the big three broadcast networks ABC, CBS and NBC dominate television news with overwhelming numbers of viewers.

But who do viewers trust the most? A poll from USA Today and Suffolk University at the end of last year ranked Fox News as the most trusted source for television news. The big three broadcast networks fared much worse in the trust category with numbers in the single digits.

Americans trust in media, government, academia and a host of other institutions has been declining for years. Our choices of institutions depends much more on which ones we like than on any level of trust. We may not trust our choices, but we like them better than the alternatives. Thats likely why Trump won in 2016 and may be why he lost in 2020, not that election fraud may have played an undermining role.

In 2016 American voters were fed up with big government and career politicians. A red wave swept over the nation from state houses and legislatures to the White House and Congress. Do Americans trust President Joe Biden and Democrat politicians? Not really. Polls show plummeting levels of approval across the board for Biden and his political priorities.

Oh sure, Biden never posts mean tweets, and verbally attacks others only when hes having a bad day. In fact Biden rarely makes more than a few public comments about anything, and even more rarely answers questions from the press. Former President Donald Trump has probably received more news coverage than Biden over the past 10 months.

No doubt those who voted for Trump in 2020 are extremely frustrated not only with Biden and Democrats handling of ... well, everything, but even more frustrated that media cover up all the piles of messes Biden & Co. have made so far. And Trump voters routinely shake their heads when Biden voters are ignorantly blissful about how things are going in America. The only problems Biden voters see are people who will not conform to government mandates and who refuse to let educators be solely in charge of their childrens education.

Middle and working-class Americans are suffering the pains of socialistic politics, policies and mandates. We should have listened to Secretary of Defense Robert Gates when he wrote in his memoir that Joe Biden had been wrong on nearly every major foreign policy and national security issue over the past four decades. ... So far, Biden has been wrong on nearly every decision and policy he has made or annulled whether foreign or domestic.

The academy has been teaching for decades there is no absolute truth. Is the academy absolutely sure? Ignorance may be bliss, but knowing and trusting in absolute truth is revolutionary and liberating.

Daniel L. Gardner is a syndicated columnist who lives in Starkville, Miss. You may contact him at PJandMe2@gmail.com.

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Iowa is represented in the U.S. House by three Republicans and one Democrat. After last year's census, an independent advisory commission drew a new map that reaffirmed the current balance, but made one of the Republican districts slightly more competitive.

This entirely reasonable adjustment was rejected by the state senate along strictly partisan lines: All Republicans opposed the map and all Democrats supported it. Afterwards, Democratic Sen. Tony Bisignano warned: "The partisanship is killing this country. The partisanship is killing this body. It's killing local bodies. It's killing neighborhoods and friendships."

States are now drawing new district lines for a Congress where Democrats hold a very narrow margin. As Elaine Kamarck of the Brookings Institution writes, "The stakes could not be higher, since the new maps will dictate politics for years to come."

Those maps won't just determine which party controls the House, however. They will influence which legislators come to Washington and how they perform their jobs.

Today, the center of the Congress has been hollowed out. Pragmatists in both parties who represent swing districts -- and actually pay attention to voters from the other party -- are headed for extinction. The U.S. House closely resembles a European parliament, where there's virtually no negotiation or even conversation across partisan lines. And the rigidity is getting worse.

"Of the country's 435 congressional districts, Trump or President Biden won just 50 of them by 5 or less percentage points," reports The Washington Post. "Those swing districts could be reduced by at least a third after redistricting, experts estimate."

In Texas, Democrats were eyeing two districts with growing Latino populations as possible takeovers, but Republicans drafted new maps that probably puts them out of reach. In Ohio, Republican Gov. Mike DeWine signed off on a new plan and admitted, "This committee could have come up with a bill that was much more clearly, clearly constitutional, and I'm sorry we did not do that."

Republicans shoulder most of the blame, but only because they control more state legislatures and governorships. When they have the chance, Democrats can be equally perfidious. In Oregon, for instance, the legislature made two swing districts more heavily blue. In Maryland, Democrats are contemplating a map that would eliminate the only remaining Republican congressman in a state that has a Republican governor and almost 1 million Trump voters.

In Illinois and New York, Democratic mapmakers could eliminate districts represented by Adam Kinzinger and John Katko -- two of the 10 Republicans who stood up to President Trump and backed his impeachment.

"Right now, Democrats in Illinois are picking their own voters behind closed doors -- using their power to make sure their party stays in power," Kinzinger said in press statement. "We see this on both sides of the aisle, and this adherence to party politics will only further the divide we have in this country. Tribalism is absolutely ruining politics, and it's leaving many to feel politically homeless as a result."

Jason Altmire, a moderate Democrat who was gerrymandered out of his seat near Pittsburgh a decade ago, told the Post, "If you're representing a district where you have to listen to both sides, you hear both points of view, and then you go to Washington and you find most everyone else comes from a district where they only hear one viewpoint."

In today's Congress, the extremes prevail: the tea party on the right and the Sanderistas on the left. "If you draw a district that's safe, the party no longer cares about recruiting a broadly appealing candidate," David Wasserman, an election analyst for the Cook Political Report, observed in the Post. "This is a vicious cycle in that the decline of competitive seats leads to a more extreme and dysfunctional Congress."

For many years, voting rights advocates hoped the Supreme Court would step in and rule that radical gerrymandering violates the Constitution. But in 2019, five justices nominated by Republicans threw up their hands and said redistricting was a political issue, not a legal one. Justice Elena Kagan warned in an angry dissent: "The practices challenged in these cases imperil our system of government."

Ten states now use some form of independent commission to draw district lines, and Congress should pass a long-stalled bill that would mandate those panels for all states. As Iowa demonstrates, commissions can be subverted by partisan warriors, but they are far preferable to a system dominated by raw political power.

A legislature without centrists will only continue the "vicious cycle" that makes Congress increasingly "extreme and dysfunctional."

Steven Roberts teaches politics and journalism at George Washington University. He can be contacted by email at stevecokie@gmail.com.

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(TBTCO) - Mot ngay khong the thay the hay bu ap cho tat ca uoc, Le tuong niem ong bao tu vong va can bo, chien si hy sinh, trong ai dich Covid-19 uoc to chuc vao luc 20 gio toi qua 19/11 tai hai iem cau TP. Ho Chi Minh va Ha Noi khong nhung phan nao am long nguoi ra i, nhe long nguoi o lai ma con la luc canh tinh cho tat ca chung ta, nhac nho chung ta ve noi au va trach nhiem.
Mills and Bar Nunn are looking to dismiss a legal challenge brought against them by the Casper Star-Tribune after the municipalities each passed ordinances earlier this year exempting them from publishing certain public notices in a newspaper.

Court filings from the Star-Tribune and the Wyoming Press Association state theyre seeking a decision from a judge on whether passing the ordinances was within the municipalities power.

The ordinances exempt Mills and Bar Nunn from publishing council meeting minutes, new codes, property sales, contracts and other legal notices in a newspaper of general circulation in the community, which is required by Wyoming state statute.

Since passing the ordinances, both Mills and Bar Nunn have continued to publish legal notices in the Star-Tribune.

In a motion to dismiss the matter, filed in August, a lawyer for the municipalities says that the Star-Tribune and WPA have no standing to sue, and dont state a valid claim. The ordinances dont forbid publishing notices in the paper, attorney Patrick Holscher writes in a brief, and no tangible damage has been done to the paper.

But the real problem, WPA lawyer Bruce Moats argues, is that these ordinances would allow them to stop publishing them whenever they like.

The Star-Tribune, Moats says in a late August brief, has both a monetary interest in losing revenue from those notices and an interest in preserving government transparency by making these notices accessible to the general public.

Now, a hearing on the motion to dismiss is set for Nov. 10 in Casper.

The judgement in the case will decide whether passing these ordinances was within the municipalities authority or an overstep of their power.

Moats argues in a brief opposing the motion to dismiss that the decision will set the standard for towns and cities in the rest of the state  who could also consider their own exemptions if these ordinances are ruled legal.

Mills and Bar Nunn cite a home-rule clause in Wyomings Constitution, which allows cities and towns to pass certain exemptions to state law.

But, according to Moats, municipalities can only exempt themselves from state statutes that dont apply to all towns and cities. The complaint states that the statutes cited in the ordinances  WS  15-7-303, 15-7-106 15-7-107, 15-1-110 and 15-6-202  are written to include all Wyoming municipalities.

In a July interview, Moats said hes never seen any other exemptions like this in Wyoming. Alan Romero, a University of Wyoming law professor, told the Star-Tribune in June that towns can use ordinances to fill in gaps left by state statute, but Wyoming is not one of the few states that allows local law to override the states.

In the ordinances passed in both Mills and Bar Nunn, which are nearly identical, the municipalities state that the newspaper is no longer an effective way to reach their residents. The ordinances allow notices to be posted online or in public places including town or city halls and post offices.

Holscher, the municipalities attorney, did not respond to a request for comment Monday.

Editors note: The Star-Tribune newsroom is not involved in the legal decisions in this matter.

Follow city and crime reporter Ellen Gerst on Twitter at @ellengerst.

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CHEYENNE  The Wyoming Legislature moved forward with its special session Tuesday, beating back two attempts to adjourn after lawmakers couldnt agree on a new set of rules for the gathering.

The Senate and House had earlier failed to obtain the two-thirds majority to pass specific rules for the special session, which triggered a vote on whether or not to adjourn before lawmakers even began discussing legislation.

Those votes concluded a long morning of debate over how the special session, which was called to fight against the Biden administrations employer vaccine mandate, should proceed and what rules lawmakers should have to follow to honor the three-day timeline legislative leaders were hoping to maintain. Among the proposals were limitations on how long and how often members could debate a piece of legislation, as well as a shortened timeline for committees to debate.

Lawmakers opposed to the special rules said they did not allow for enough debate and would rush what is intended to be a careful process.

We do the hard work and we do it through a deliberative process and we do it so that its transparent, said Rep. Cathy Connolly, D-Laramie. I do not see these rules abiding by that (deliberative process.)

While those in Connollys camp were ultimately successful in defeating the special rules, not all lawmakers agreed with the argument.

Theres going to be plenty of public testimony, theres going to be plenty of transparency, said Rep. Jared Olsen, R-Cheyenne. Each year we modify rules in our session ... because we have such a volume of work to do for the people. When we modify the rules, we are respecting the process.

Passing the special rules required a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate, but neither chamber could deliver the necessary support.

When the rules were defeated, it triggered a vote to adjourn the session altogether. That vote required a simple majority. The House voted 21 to 35 against adjourning, while the Senate voted 6 to 23 against it.

We need to take action here, said Rep. Chuck Gray, R-Casper. This is not making sense. Were 18 months of this, and until we take a stand, it is not going to stop, Im afraid.

Those supportive of adjournment were so for varied reasons.

I think weve conflated a couple of different issues here, Rep. Mike Yin, D-Jackson, said. He acknowledged that members believed a federal vaccine mandate was a constitutional overreach but said if that is the case, the legal system would be better suited to address the problem. The right place to deal with constitutional disagreements is in the court system.

Another lawmaker who opposed continuing on with the session without a truncated process was Rep. Art Washut, R-Casper.

My concern about operating this special session under the regular rules is that we will have no limit on the number of bills that will come before this body. We dont know how many days will be required, he said, adding that he voted to have a special session and voted to support the special rules.

It also has to do with the budget process, he continued. It has to do with committees. Weve got work to get done in order to be ready for the budget session.

All Democrats voted against the rules, as they promised to. The vote did not exactly fall along party lines, however. A number of Republicans also voted against the rules and then voted in favor of adjourning.

One of the Democrats main arguments against the special session rules was that they short many of the processes that regularly go into debating and passing bills. If the special rules were adopted, lawmakers would have only had a couple days to pass laws aimed at combating Bidens vaccine mandate  limiting the amount of public input.

After the adjournment votes failed, lawmakers in both chambers moved forward with introducing legislation. Without a new set of rules, they will operate on the ones that governed the most recent general session.

Without the special rules, some members worried there would be a rush of unrelated proposals that would keep lawmakers in a stalemate for weeks, but legislative leadership maintained strict standards for what bills they introduced to the body.

Any bills, whether they make it off the floor today or not, that dont fit the topic of this session, I give you my word that theyre not coming up on the board, Senate Majority Floor Leader Ogden Driskill, R-Devils Tower, told members.Now, instead of streamlining the process with mirror bills being heard simultaneously in the House and Senate, they will go through one chamber to the next, allowing for more public participation on each bill.

The push for the special session began in September, after President Joe Biden signed an executive order that would require workers at companies with more than 100 employees to either be vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing. The move angered many in Wyoming, the nations most vaccine-hesitant state, and one with a long history of skepticism toward the federal government.

Before the mandate can go into effect, the federal-rule making process has to be completed. While that hasnt happened yet, political pressure from the right pushed lawmakers to convene the gathering, even though the lack of details about the final rules could hamper lawmakers ability to block them.

Lawmakers must also contend with the U.S. Constitutions Supremacy Clause, which holds that federal law supersedes state statute.

That didnt stop the Legislature from drafting 20 bills, most of which are aimed at vaccine requirements in general and COVID-19 guidelines in particular. Some lawmakers have even considered loosening all K-12 vaccine requirements.

The session is taking place as Wyomings hospitals contend with record-levels of COVID-19 patients. Last week, hospitalizations hit an all-time high. The state also announced 69 COVID deaths that week  a high for 2021.

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Wyoming lawmakers are convening in Cheyenne today for a special session to challenge President Joe Biden's vaccine mandate. Star-Tribune reporter Victoria Eavis is at the Capitol, monitoring the action.

Here's the latest:

1:45 p.m.

The Wyoming Legislature moved forward with its special session Tuesday, beating back two attempts to adjourn after lawmakers couldnt agree on a new set of rules for the gathering.

The Senate and House had earlier failed to obtain the two-thirds majority to pass specific rules for the special session, which triggered a vote on whether or not to adjourn the session.

That vote required a simple majority. The House voted 21 to 35 against adjourning, while the Senate voted 6 to 23 against it.

After the adjournment votes failed, lawmakers in both chambers moved forward with introducing legislation. Without a new set of rules, they will operate on the ones that governed the most recent general session.

11:54 a.m.

Senate lawmakers voted against special rules. They are now adjuourned until 12:45 p.m.

11:45 a.m.

The House is in recess until 12:30 p.m. Before closing the morning session, lawmakers are told to anticipate a vote to adjourn the special session if the special rules are not accepted.

11:10 a.m.

Lawmakers in the House voted against accepting special rules proposed for the three-day session with 37 members in favor of the rules, 20 opposed and three excused. For the rules to be accepted, two-thirds of the House would have needed to vote in favor.

Among those rules was a provision limiting members to two, five-minute opportunities to speak on a bill, rather than the standard unlimited debate. They also would have established a "mirror" process, typically reserved only for considering the state budget, where each legislative chamber would debate the same bill at the same time, rather than requiring one chamber pass a bill before the other chamber considers it.

Those opposed to the shortened process said it would rush legislation without proper deliberation. Those in favor of the rules said that given the focused nature of the session, there would be appropriate debate and public participation.

10:21 a.m.

The special legislative session is underway in Cheyenne.

The first order of business will be passing the rules that will govern the session. The rules require a two-thirds majority in both chambers. If they do not get the votes, they will call a vote on whether or not to adjourn the entire session, which only requires a simple majority to do so.

There are four lawmakers excused today -- one in the Senate and three in the House. Of those excused in the House -- Robert Wharff, Sandy Newsome and Donald Burkhart -- only Burkhart voted no in the session poll. The one senator excused, Stephan Pappas, R-Cheyenne voted against the session in the poll.

All excused lawmakers count as no votes, instead of changing the majority threshold. Because votes today are likely to be close, these couple people could make a difference.

The House and Senate galleries are overflowing with people, requiring observers to stand in the gallery or watch virtually.

Harriet Hageman, the Trump endorsed candidate for U.S. House against Rep. Liz Cheney, is in attendance, as well as state GOP chairman Frank Eathorne.

There are a number of anti-mandate protesters on the Capitol steps, as well.

How'd we get here?

The push for the special session began in September, after President Joe Biden signed an executive order that would require workers at companies with more than 100 employees to either be vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing. The move angered many in Wyoming, the nation's most vaccine-hesitant state, and one with a long history of skepticism toward the federal government.

Before the mandate can go into effect, the federal-rule making process has to be completed. While that hasn't happened yet, political pressure from the right pushed lawmakers to convene the gathering, even though the lack of details about the final rules could hamper lawmakers' ability to block them.

Lawmakers must also contend with the U.S. Constitution's Supremacy Clause, which holds that federal law supersedes state statute.

That hasn't stopped the Legislature from drafting 20 bills, most of which are aimed at vaccine requirements in general and COVID-19 guidelines in particular. Some lawmakers have even considered loosening all K-12 vaccine requirements.

The session is taking place as Wyoming's hospitals contend with record-levels of COVID-19 patients. Last week, hospitalizations hit an all-time high. The state also announced 69 COVID deaths for the week -- a high for 2021.

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THE Confederation of Regional Business Chambers (CRBC) is calling on the Government to consider an extension on the submission of the property tax forms beyond November 30, 2021.

The CRBC, in a statement yesterday, said there can be criminal liabilities or a penalty if these forms are not filed by November 30, hence, Government is urged to consider the request to extend the deadline as an urgent matter.
Deborah De Labastide pours her genuine love for the Yuletide season into her popular ponche-de-creme blends, pastelles and black cake.

De Labastides self-branded Debs Exquisite Island Drinks line is a must-get for visitors at the annual Christmas upmarket at Lions Cultural Centre in Port of Spain.
THE murder toll continues to rise following the shooting deaths of three men in separate incidents between Thursday evening and yesterday morning.

The killings took place in Laventille, San Juan and Freeport.

Two of the victims have been identified as Aaron Thomas and Nathaniel Phillip, while the victim in the Freeport incident remained unidentified up to yesterday evening.
The pre-election splurge by the PNM-led Tobago House of Assembly (THA) draws attention to constitutional loopholes that should be addressed.

Here is an administration which went in with a comfortable majority for the election which was held in January this year and came out in a dead heat with the challenger party.
I want to congratulate Senator Sinema for being the rare politician these days that is seeking common ground for the common good. Ive seen pl
Harrico attended the protest because of Sinemas opposition to the Biden administrations Reconciliation Bill, which contains climate change provisions the Bisbee resident particularly supports.

It felt to me like an opportunity to let it be known that we are not happy with how shes conducting herself, Harrico said. As a representative who works for the people, she certainly is not doing that. It feels to me like shes just an obstructionist basically.

Hurley responded, "As she has said publicly, Senator Sinema is excited for the opportunity in the legislation to pass policies addressing our changing climate."

Several people at the protest who spoke with the Star said they saw it as an opportunity to have their voices be heard by an elected official who they find inaccessible, including Anne Teters, a Bisbee business owner.

Ive been very dismayed and horrified and astonished and disgusted by the way Kyrsten Sinema keeps blocking legislation that we need like to lower prescription drug prices or to raise minimum wage or to protect the climate  all these things we obviously need for the future, for the present, Teters said.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A powerful atmospheric river storm that swept through California set rainfall records and helped douse wildfires. But it remained to be seen how much of a dent it made in the state's drought.

The weather system weakened as it moved south but still dropped enough rain Monday evening to cause mudslides that closed roads in the San Bernardino Mountains northeast of Los Angeles.

The atmospheric river storm, a long and wide plume of moisture pulled in from the Pacific, came ashore in Northern California over the weekend.

Drenching rains caused widespread flooding and rock slides. Strong winds knocked down trees and toppled two big trucks on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge near San Francisco. Pacific Gas & Electric reported that 646,000 homes and businesses lost power, though most had it back by Monday.

By early Tuesday, light rain and snow was still falling in northern parts of California and the lone remaining flood warning was in Sonoma County north of San Francisco, where stream levels were slow to fall.

Despite the problems, the rain and mountain snow were welcome in Northern California, which is so dry that nearly all of it is classified as either experiencing extreme or exceptional drought.
They discussed the U.S. commitment to supporting religious freedom around the world and opportunities to work with the Orthodox Christian community worldwide on issues of shared concern, as well as with religious minorities in Turkey and the region, Price said.

The White House said the meeting between Bartholomew and Biden underscored the critical role that faith communities play in confronting the range of global challenges we all face.

Bartholomew said at the White House that he was abundantly satisfied with his visit, praising Biden as a man of faith, and man of vision.

We cannot allow any short sighted political agendas to interfere with our relationships, that are through, and in, Christ Jesus, the Lord and Savior of the world. he said.

Blinken also praised the remarkable leadership Bartholomew, sometimes known as the green patriarch, has shown in calling for solutions to the climate crisis.

Bartholomew also said Monday he'd join with Pope Francis and the leaders of other major religions around the world to call on the global community to facilitate COVID-19 vaccinations for the world, especially for poor countries.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Pennsylvania prosecutors have dropped a felony theft charge against a man who underpaid for a bottle of Mountain Dew by 43 cents.

Prosecutors in Perry County dropped the theft charge this month against Joseph Sobolewski, 38, and downgraded another charge, the Patriot-News reported Tuesday.

In August, Sobolewski went into an Exxon in Duncannon and saw a sign advertising two 20-ounce Mountain Dew bottles for $3, he said. He took one bottle, slapped $2 on the counter for what he thought was a $1.50 soda and walked out, not realizing the discount did not apply to a single bottle.

The bottle really cost $2.29, so including tax, he owed the store 43 cents.

State police found Sobolewski and arrested him on a felony charge. A judge ordered him held on $50,000 cash-only bond. He was in jail for seven days before his public defender successfully argued for his release, the newspaper reported.
WASHINGTON (AP)  An 84-year-old Iranian-American man who has been detained in Iran for more than five years underwent surgery on Tuesday to clear a blockage in an artery to the brain that his family and supporters have described as life-threatening.

The surgery on Baquer Namazi appears to have been a success and Baquer is awake, although he remains groggy, according to a statement from Namazi's attorney, Jared Genser. He is expected to remain in the intensive care unit for two more days and then be transferred to a general recovery ward before being released.

Genser and Namazi's son, Babak, urged Iran weeks ago to lift a travel ban that has kept his father inside the country so that he could receive medical care in another country. Genser submitted a brief earlier this month to the United Nations saying Iran's actions violated Namazi's rights.

Instead, the surgery occurred in Iran, and Genser said that though the family was grateful that the operation went well, dire concerns remain about the quality of aftercare available in Iran, the significant risk of Covid-19 exposure in the hospital, and the need for a stress-free environment for recovery, all of which threaten Baquers survival and long-term well-being.
The suspended aid was direct financial support intended to help the country transition to a fully civilian government. Price said additional U.S. aid to the country could also be at risk, along with the broader relationship. Ties between Washington and Khartoum had been warming since Sudan agreed to pay compensation to the victims of the 1998 embassy bombings in neighboring Kenya and nearby Tanzania that were planned on Sudanese soil by Osama bin Ladens al-Qaida network. Sudan had been removed from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism late last year.

It was not immediately clear how much aid the U.S. is providing Sudan in addition to the $700 million that was suspended. Many forms of U.S. assistance, including military aid, are still barred due to a decades-old determination that a coup had brought Sudans now-deposed authoritarian leader Omar al-Bashir to power in 1989. That determination had not been rescinded despite the recent thaw in relations.

Price said the administration was watching developments very closely and will not hesitate to hold those responsible for the coup to account, including through the restoration of sanctions that had been lifted or eased after Sudan's removal from the terrorism sponsor list.
MAGNOLIA, Texas (AP)  A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Texas school district's enforcement of a grooming policy that prohibits boys from having long hair.

Chief U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal's ruling on Monday came days after seven students, ages 7 to 17, sued the Magnolia Independent School District alleging gender discrimination over the policy that bans boys  and not girls  from having long hair.

Rosenthal's ruling covers a small group of students who she said were being harmed by the policy, according to the Houston Chronicle.

The district has said its grooming policy complies with state law and is in line with community values.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of six boys and one nonbinary student by the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, the ACLU Women's Rights Project and three major Houston law firms.
This situation is not about Dave Halls. ... Its in no way one persons fault, she said. "Its a bigger conversation about safety on set and what we are trying to achieve with that culture.

A vigil for Hutchins was held Sunday in Southern California, where attendees exchanged tearful hugs and speakers echoed calls for heightened safety standards.

Actor Rosanna Arquette joined many in Hollywood in calling for a move away from using real weapons, whether armed with blanks or bullets.

I hope this wakes people up. Because there should be no live round anything ever on a movie. We have enough CGI, we have enough  its absurd, she said. All of us are shaken to the core in the industry about this.

Actor Ray Liotta agreed with Wright that the checks on firearms are usually extensive.

They always  that I know of  they check it so you can see, Liotta said. They give it to the person youre pointing the gun at, they do it to the producer, they show whoever is there that it doesnt work.
Police identified the victims as Ana Abulaban, 28, of San Diego and Rayburn Cadenas Barron, 29, of National City.

About two dozen family members and friends of the two victims packed the courtroom. Several of them sobbed as Brast shared details about last Thursday's killings in San Diego's East Village neighborhood.

Brast said Ali Abulaban confessed to detectives and accused his wife of cheating, although the prosecutor said she believes Barron was a friend.

According to Brast, Ana Abulaban had asked her husband to move out Oct. 18. He checked into a hotel.

Three days later, Brast said, Ali Abulaban sneaked back into the apartment and trashed it while his wife was gone. He also installed the listening app on his daughters iPad.

Hours later, Abulaban was listening to the app when he heard his wife and a man talking and giggling, Brast said, and he raced back to the high-rise. Security camera video showed him running out of the elevator to the apartment.

Brast said Abulaban shot Barron three times before shooting his wife in her head. Abulaban then called his mother and confessed, Brast said.
Five years ago: The Pentagon worked to stave off a public relations nightmare, suspending efforts to force California National Guard troops who served in Iraq and Afghanistan to repay enlistment bonuses that might have been improperly awarded. The Chicago Cubs beat Cleveland 5-1 in Game 2 for their first victory during a World Series since 1945.

One year ago: Amy Coney Barrett was confirmed to the Supreme Court by a deeply divided Senate, with Republicans overpowering Democrats to install President Donald Trumps nominee days before the election and secure a likely conservative court majority for years to come. Police in Philadelphia shot and killed Walter Wallace, a 27-year-old Black man with a history of mental health problems, after yelling at him to drop his knife; the shooting, which brought the issues of policing and racism back into the presidential campaign in its closing days, was followed by days of civil unrest and store break-ins that led the mayor to impose an overnight curfew the following night.

Todays Birthdays: Actor Jaclyn Smith is 76. TV host Pat Sajak is 75. Hillary Rodham Clinton is 74. Musician Bootsy Collins is 70. Actor James Pickens Jr. is 69. Rock musician David Was is 69. Rock musician Keith Strickland (The B-52s) is 68. Actor Lauren Tewes is 68. Actor D.W. Moffett is 67. Actor-singer Rita Wilson is 65. Actor Patrick Breen is 61. Actor Dylan McDermott is 60. Actor Cary Elwes is 59. Singer Natalie Merchant is 58. Actor Steve Valentine is 55. Country singer Keith Urban is 54. Actor Tom Cavanagh is 53. Actor Rosemarie DeWitt is 50. Actor Anthony Rapp is 50. Writer-producer Seth MacFarlane (TV: Family Guy) is 48. TV news correspondent Paula Faris is 46. Actor Lennon Parham is 46. Actor Florence Kasumba is 45. Actor Hal Ozsan is 45. Actor Jon Heder is 44. Singer Mark Barry (BBMak) is 43. Actor Jonathan Chase is 42. Actor Folake Olowofoyeku (foh-LAH-kay oh-low-wow-foh-YAY-koo) is 38. Olympic silver medal figure skater Sasha Cohen is 37. Rapper Schoolboy Q is 35. Actor Beulah Koale (TV: Hawaii Five-0) is 30.

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
Just two reporters were allowed inside a Georgia courtroom to serve as the eyes and ears of the public when jury selection began for the men charged with murdering Ahmaud Arbery. Pandemic restrictions also kept reporters and the public out of the courtroom during the sex-trafficking trial of music star R. Kelly.

And in an Ohio courtroom, a federal judge relegated the press to an overflow room to listen to an audio feed for the trial of a Chinese national charged with trying to steal trade secrets from U.S. companies.

A year-and-a-half into the coronavirus pandemic, courts across the U.S. are still grappling with how to balance public health concerns with the constitutional rights of a defendant and the public to have an open trial. There's no standard solution. Some courts are still functioning entirely virtually. Others are back in person. And many are allowing only limited public access.

This is a fundamental constitutional right that the public has  to have open courts and to be able to see whats happening in real time in a courtroom, said David Snyder, executive director of the First Amendment Coalition, which has prodded California courts to improve public access during the pandemic.
The conditions also include a government review every five years of the economic impacts of the net zero target outside major cities. The first assessment would be delivered in 2023, The Australian newspaper reported.

Finance Minister Simon Birmingham described the reviews as a health check on how various parts of Australia were being effected by the transition to net zero.

What it will do is focus the minds of the government of the day very clearly on where additional investments may be necessary to help ensure the transition, Birmingham told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who will host the upcoming summit in Glasgow, Scotland, known as COP26, congratulated Australia on its net zero ambition.

That was very difficult for Australia because Australias very heavily dependent on coal, on lots of carbon-producing industries, and theyve done a heroic thing, Johnson said, referring to the 2050 commitment.

However Australia is likely to be criticized in Glasgow for its relatively weak 2030 target. The United States has committed to reductions of between 50% and 52% below 2005 levels. Britain has pledged to cut emissions by 68% below 1990 levels.
An alleged shooter was arrested Monday evening following a three-hour standoff with police across town from where they say he fatally shot a man outside an apartment that morning.

Jequan Penny, 26, was arrested following the standoff at his home in the 3100 block of North Lewis Avenue after police attempted to serve a search warrant Monday evening, Tulsa Police Ofc. Andre Baul said.

His alleged victim, who has not yet been identified, was shot just outside his apartment near 61st and Peoria that morning about 9:40 a.m., Officer Madelyne Sweger said.

Officers found the 51-year-old man in the breezeway at the Newport Shores Apartments, 6033 S. Madison Place, while responding to a report of a shooting. They began life-saving efforts that ambulance personnel continued before the victim was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Sweger said a couple of the victims family members were inside the apartment at the time of the shooting, and they were taken to police headquarters for further questioning.

Investigators developed Penny as a suspect, and officers attempted to serve a warrant at his home about 5:30 p.m.
A Tulsa police officer was shot in the arm Monday afternoon during an altercation over a gun at a convenience store at 61st Street and Peoria Avenue, police said. The alleged shooter was taken into custody Monday night after a manhunt that lasted several hours.

The officer was investigating the finding of a firearm in the restroom at the R&R Food Store, on the southwest corner of the intersection, about 4:30 p.m., police said in a Facebook post. The officer approached Rashad Thomas, 19, who the officer believed had something to do with the gun. Jail records list Thomas' first name as Rashed.

Video surveillance showed Thomas putting a gun in his waistband before the officer approached him, according to the Facebook post.

When the officer approached Thomas, Thomas pulled out his gun, and he and the officer began fighting over the weapon. The gun then went off, hitting the officer in the wrist, Capt. Richard Meulenberg said.

Thomas was not injured, according to the Facebook post.

Meulenberg said two other suspects were at the scene, but police had released no additional information about them by Monday night.
Miller was one of a handful of speakers who shared their concerns about the operation of the new dam with city councilors at their Wednesday evening meeting.

Josh Johnston, a fishery biologist with the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, told councilors that the agency had been told the old dam would allow for fish and sediment to pass through.

It didnt work, Johnston said. So the Department of Wildlife has always been in favor of renovation (of the dam) if we couldnt just tear it down for something that would work.

Johnston said he believes the new dam will be state of the art and have all the potential in the world to do the right thing, but there is no operations plan.

Electrical engineer Charles Pratt, who also spoke at last weeks council meeting, said Monday that the city has promised that the new dam will allow for fish passage.

They have made it multiple, multiple times from 2012 all the way through when us voters voted on the package (in 2016). That is what we were told, Pratt said.

The city of Tulsa late last year entered into an agreement with the River Parks Authority to operate the dam once it is completed in 2023. The authority also operated the old Zink Dam for the city.
The affidavit released Sunday also included statements by director Joel Souza, who was standing behind Hutchins and was wounded.

It detailed the moments before the shooting and showed that there was turmoil on the set the day of the shooting. Several members of the camera crew walked off the production in a dispute over payment and lodging, Russell said, and he was left with a lot of work to do. Only one camera was available to shoot, and it had to be moved because the light had shifted and there was a shadow.

Souza said he was focused on how the scene would appear on camera. He said he recalled hearing the phrase cold gun before the shooting, the affidavit said.

He said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds. After a lunch break, Souza said he was not sure if the firearm had been checked again. Souza was looking over Hutchins' shoulder when he heard the gunshot, according to the affidavit.

The films chief electrician, Serge Svetnoy, blamed producers for Hutchins death in an emotional Facebook post on Sunday. Svetnoy said he had worked with Hutchins on multiple films and faulted negligence and unprofessionalism among those handling weapons on the set. He said producers hired an inexperienced armorer.
HONG KONG (AP)  The human rights group Amnesty International said it will close its two offices in Hong Kong this year, becoming the latest non-governmental organization to cease operations amid a crackdown on political dissent in the city.

The group said its local office in Hong Kong will close this month and its regional office will close by the end of the year, with operations moved to other offices in the Asia-Pacific region, the organization said in a statement Monday.

This decision, made with a heavy heart, has been driven by Hong Kongs national security law, which has made it effectively impossible for human rights organizations in Hong Kong to work freely and without fear of serious reprisals from the government, Anjhula Mya Singh Bais, chair of Amnesty Internationals board, said in a statement.

Mainland China imposed a sweeping National Security Law in Hong Kong in 2020 following months of massive anti-government protests. The law outlaws secession, subversion of state power, terrorism and foreign collusion to intervene in the citys affairs. More than 120 people, many of them supporters of the city's democracy movement, have been arrested under the law.
Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen told UK lawmakers Monday that posting content featuring anger and hate "is the easiest way to grow" on the social media platform as she urged better regulation.

Haugen, who earlier this year shared a trove of internal documents alleging Facebook knew its products were harming children's mental health, argued the platform was "unquestionably" fuelling hate.

Haugen said Facebook used "engagement-based rankings" prioritising the most clicked  and invariably divisive  content.

"It pushes you to the extremes and it fans hate," she told a panel of British MPs probing regulatory options, weeks after she testified to US Congress.

"Anger and hate is the easiest way to grow on Facebook... bad actors have an incentive to play the algorithm, and they figure out all the ways to optimise Facebook."

Haugen worked for companies including Google and Pinterest before starting at the world's largest social media platform in 2019 with the hope of helping Facebook change course.

However, the 37-year-old data scientist has said she became increasingly concerned about the choices she saw the company making and left in May.

She then shared documents with US lawmakers and The Wall Street Journal that showed failures by Facebook to address misinformation, hate and other toxic content.

They also alleged that it knew its products, including Instagram, were harming young girls, especially around body image.

"I am deeply worried that it may not be possible to make Instagram safe for a 14-year-old and I sincerely doubt it's possible to make it safe for a 10-year-old," Haugen told the UK lawmakers.

'Not acceptable'

In a wide-ranging assessment of its failings, she said Facebook was failing to regulate larger groups with hundreds of thousands of users where misinformation proliferates.

Meanwhile, she said, the social media giant is also underinvesting in its non-English language products, endangering societies already suffering from deep ethnic and religious divisions.

"We have to care about societal harm, not just for the 'Global South' but our own societies," she said.

"Facebook has been unwilling to accept even little slivers of profit being sacrificed for safety, and that's not acceptable."

Haugen said a raft of up-to-date and "flexible" regulations were needed as content and social media companies evolve.

"We need ways to hold these companies accountable," she added, calling for more human intervention instead of algorithms and artificial intelligence.

As part of forthcoming legislation on online safety, the UK government is considering criminal sanctions against company executives who fail to tackle harmful content on their platforms.

Haugen said such sanctions could play an important role because they "act like gasoline on the law".

"It makes executives take consequences more seriously," she noted.

Asked if Facebook was "evil", Haugen said it is overwhelmingly staffed by "conscientious, kind, empathetic people".

But she added: "There was a real pattern of people who are willing to look the other way, are promoted more than people who raise alarms."

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has previously rejected Haugen's claims, saying her attacks on the company were "misrepresenting" its work.
A boat's crew casts a net into the seemingly clean waters off Japan's Izu peninsula, but not to catch fish -- they are scooping up microplastics to learn more about the pollution's impact on marine life.

Tiny floating fragments from plastic packaging, synthetic clothing and fishing nets have proliferated over the past four decades, and are now found in every part of the world's oceans -- even the deepest trench.

The planet's seafloor is littered with an estimated 14 million tonnes of microplastics, according to a study released last year, and scientists say more research on them is urgently needed, including their effect on ecosystems, the food chain and human health.

So a team of French and Japanese researchers is analysing samples from the archipelago's coastal waters to study how microplastics make their way into the sea, and how much seeps into the ocean floor.

They are also examining the so-called "plastisphere", where micro-organisms live among discarded plastic.

"It's a new ecosystem that didn't exist before the 1970s. So we don't really know which types of microbes are associated with this plastic," Sylvain Agostini, scientific director of the Tara-Jambio project, told AFP.

Having left the funnel-shaped net nicknamed "the sock" to drift for 15 minutes near the surface, the crew hoisted it back on deck to inspect their catch.

"This blue stuff is microplastics, and that's polystyrene, I believe," Agostini said.

They have collected more than 200 samples since their study began in April 2020, all of which contain microplastics.

Jonathan Ramtahal, a student from Trinidad and Tobago taking part in the research, said the team aims to determine whether the bacteria they find is "harmful to the wider food chain".

"Is it something we should be worried about -- do they transport any vectors for diseases? The diversity of bacteria can give us an idea of how it changes in different environments," he said.

A team of French and Japanese researchers is analysing samples from the archipelago's coastal waters to study how microplastics make their way into the sea, and how much seeps into the ocean floor. Photo: AFP

'Lead by example'

Other studies have shown that microplastics have infiltrated the planet's most remote regions, and France's Tara Ocean Foundation has previously researched them in the Mediterranean and large European rivers.

Now the foundation is in Japan, the second-biggest producer of plastic packaging waste per capita according to the United Nations.

The Japanese government says its vast waste management scheme stops plastic from finding its way to the sea, and industry research shows 85 percent of plastic waste in Japan is recycled -- although much is burnt for energy, emitting carbon dioxide.

Keiji Nakajima, director of marine plastic pollution control at the environment ministry, said Japan's waters are also affected by the waste of its neighbours.

"Japan's streets and streams are cleaner than those of other countries," he said.

The nation sits "downstream of a major oceanic current that sweeps in plastic waste produced in Southeast Asia and China", Nakajima added.

A 2018 UN report named the United States as the biggest generator of plastic packaging waste per capita, with China the largest overall.

A 2018 UN report named the United States as the biggest generator of plastic packaging waste per capita, with China the largest overall. Photo: AFP

Agostini, an assistant professor at the University of Tsukuba northeast of Tokyo, said that while "there is some truth" in this explanation, it is not watertight.

When plastic waste is found at a river's estuary, or a secluded bay, it's clear that "it doesn't come from thousands of kilometres away", he said.

The Tara-Jambio project is unlikely to settle that debate when its findings are published in several years time, but Agostini argues that if even a small proportion of Japan's plastic waste seeps into the ocean, it is still an "enormous quantity".

Japan is taking small steps to reduce its reliance on plastic: in 2019, it set a target to recycle 100 percent of new plastic by 2035, and last year, stores began charging for plastic bags.

"Packaging habits are ingrained" in Japan, said Kazuo Inaba, head of the Japanese marine-station network Jambio, but he and the team say change is necessary.

"If developed countries don't lead by example, no one will do it," Agostini said.
Functional forces and people in the central Vietnamese of Quang Nam found the bodies of two boys and a man at a local beach on Tuesday morning, some 25km away from the location where the victims basket boat had capsized in an estuary in the neighboring province of Quang Ngai two days earlier.

The bodies had been washed up on the coast of Quang Nams Nui Thanh District before one of them was discovered by local people at around 4:00 am on Tuesday, according to the local border guard station.

Upon receiving a report of the first body, which was later determined to be 14-year-old Nguyen Tan No, the functional forces launched a search and managed to find the bodies of Bui Duc Su, 14, and Nguyen Thai, 25, about 200 meters from Nos location.

No, Su, and Thai, who were residents of Binh Son District in Quang Ngai Province, went missing after flood tides had capsized their basket boat in Sa Can Estuary on their way to assist their familys fishing boat at around 4:00 am on Sunday.

The location where people found the bodies of the three victims is an area along the border between Quang Nam and Quang Ngai while Nui Thanh and Binh Son Districts are 25 kilometers away from each other.

The functional forces contacted the victims family for the handover of their bodies.

In the past week of torrential rains and extreme weather, Quang Ngai authorities reported ten deaths and missing cases on beaches and rivers, seven of whom have been found.

Three people remaining unaccounted for since October 17, when they were last seen off Ly Son Island, are fishermen on fishing boat coded QNg 11684.

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Five Vietnamese have been listed in the worlds top 10,000 scientists in 2021, the Vietnam News Agency quoted the findings of a study by researchers from U.S.-based Stanford University as saying.

This year, Professor Nguyen Dinh Duc from Vietnam National University-Hanoi again takes the lead among the Vietnamese scientists, ranking 5,949th in the world and 96th in the field of engineering.

Associate Professor Le Hoang Son, who is also from Vietnam National University-Hanoi, ranked 6,766th.

Professor Nguyen Xuan Hung from the Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology stood at 6,818th.

Meanwhile, Professor Bui Tien Dieu from Duy Tan University and Professor Vo Xuan Vinh from the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City were placed at the 9,488th and 9,528th positions, respectively.

This is the third consecutive year that Prof. Duc, Prof. Hung, and Assoc. Prof. Son have entered the list of the top 10,000 scientists in the world.

More than 20 other representatives from Vietnam were named among the worlds top 100,000 scientists this year.

Multiple Vietnamese were also listed among the most influential scientists in the world based on their lifetime achievements.

They include Professor Nguyen Dinh Duc, Professor Nguyen Xuan Hung, Professor Nguyen Minh Tho from Ton Duc Thang University, late Professor Hoang Tuy from the Institute of Mathematics, and Professor Tran Hien Trinh from the University of Oxford.

The list of the 100,000 best scientists worldwide has been published annually by a team of researchers led by Professors Jeroen Baas, Kevin Boyack, and John P.A. Ioannidis from Stanford University, according to Lao Dong (Labor) newspaper.

They analyzed the Scopus database from 1960 to August 2021 on more than seven million scientists and selected those with the greatest influence.

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Ten high school students have been hospitalized in northern Vietnam after eating a type of candy infused with a component in the cannabis plant.

The incident took place at Hoanh Bo High School, located in the namesake ward in Ha Long City under Quang Ninh Province, on Monday morning, Nguyen Thi Dinh  the school principal  confirmed later the same day.

A tenth grader first had symptoms including headache, dizziness, nausea, and numbness in the limbs during a flag-raising ceremony at the school, Dinh elaborated.

Nine other students later experienced similar symptoms.

They were given first aid before being admitted to Ha Long General Hospital, the principal stated.

Doctors said they conducted urinalysis on the patients and detected tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main mind-altering ingredient found in the cannabis plant.

The patients are now in stable conditions and remain at the hospital for further monitoring.

The students said they had consumed some candy of unknown origin brought to class by M.T.S., one of their classmates.

S. claimed to have purchased the products from a local cafe.

Preliminary information from the wards police unit showed that the name of the candy was Medicated Nerds Rope 400mg THC, Lao Dong (Labor) newspaper reported.

A foreign website describes the product as flavored gummy candy infused with 400 mg of active THC, which takes 60 minutes to fully kick in.

Another site stated that the candy is only for people aged 21 and older.

In Vietnam, both medical and recreational use of cannabis and cannabis-based products are prohibited by law.

It is thus illegal to buy, sell, transport, possess, and use cannabis in the Southeast Asian country.

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The Ministry of Health reported 3,639 additional COVID-19 infections in Vietnam on Tuesday, as the number of vaccine doses given nationwide is approaching 75 million.

The latest cases, including three imported and 3,592 local infections, were logged in 49 provinces and cities, the health ministry said, noting that 1,431 patients were detected in the community.

Ho Chi Minh City documented 783 of the domestically-infected cases, Binh Duong Province 528, Dong Nai Province 481, An Giang Province 290, Dak Lak Province 162, Tien Giang Province 121, Tay Ninh Province 120, Kien Giang Province 118, Tra Vinh Province 108, Bac Lieu Province 106, Can Tho City 57, Khanh Hoa Province 45, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province 33, Hanoi 18, and Da Nang two.

Vietnam had registered 3,620 locally-acquired infections on Monday.

The Southeast Asian country has recorded 891,389 community transmissions in 62 out of its 63 provinces and cities since the fourth virus wave emerged on April 27, 807,473 of them having recovered from the respiratory disease.

Ho Chi Minh City tops the table with 426,873 patients, followed by Binh Duong Province with 229,885, Dong Nai Province with 62,471, Long An Province with 34,294, Tien Giang Province with 15,858, Dong Thap Province with 9,476, Khanh Hoa Province with 8,843, Da Nang with 4,956, Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province with 4,567, and Hanoi with 4,439.

Vietnam documented only 1,570 locally-transmitted infections in total in the previous three waves.

The health ministry announced 2,989 recoveries on Tuesday, taking the total to 810,290.

The toll has climbed to 21,802 deaths after the ministry confirmed 64 fatalities on the same day, including 27 in Ho Chi Minh City and 14 in Binh Duong Province.

Vietnam has found 896,174 infections since the COVID-19 pandemic first hit it early last year.

Health workers have administered nearly 75 million vaccine doses, including 920,398 shots on Monday, since vaccination was rolled out on March 8.

Over 21.8 million people have been fully inoculated.

Health authorities target to inoculate at least two-thirds of a population of nearly 98 million people against COVID-19 by the first quarter of next year.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!
Peter Stefanovic presents a two-part documentary China Rising on SKY News next month, examining the impact the rise of China is having on Australia and the world.

Peter Stefanovic said: Since President Xi Jinping came to power there have been unprecedented levels of interference and espionage on Australian soil. Politicians have been corrupted, even the headquarters of our democracy have been targeted. The threat to Australias sovereignty has never been greater. Canberra has rightfully pushed back, but as a result, the diplomatic relationship is at an all-time low. We take a deep dive into where Xi has come from, and ultimately, where he is going  and it should cause us great concern.

China is one of the oldest living civilizations on earth. Its history extends back thousands of years, and along the way there have been many monumental turning points. Now, China is turning once again. But this time its different.

Across two nights, the documentary will feature interviews with some of Australias biggest political figures, including former Australian Prime Ministers John Howard and Tony Abbott, former Minister for Foreign Affairs Bob Carr and Federal Minister for Defence Peter Dutton.

There will be insights from foreign policy experts and international decision makers, including Taiwans Foreign Minister Joseph Wu, former US Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage, and foreign policy analyst Peter Jennings, as they weigh in on relations with China under President Xi Jinping.

With a regime determined to ensure China takes its rightful position as the worlds greatest superpower, and as the Chinese Communist Party marks its centenary year, China Rising will explore the origins of Australias relationship with China, and why it is now in its worst state ever, with potentially disastrous consequences.

The documentary also hears calls for the increasingly heated rhetoric to be toned down and for key players to find a way forward from the current tensions. For Australia especially, there are extraordinary economic benefits from closer ties with China.

The special investigation airs at a critical point, coming in the wake of the newly signed AUKUS pact between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States, and the agreement to equip Australia with nuclear-powered submarines. Such military and diplomatic manoeuvres are seen as a clear and necessary response to the rise of China, and the threat it poses to peace in our region. The program will examine growing concerns over Chinas aggressive militarisation in the South China Sea, and its ambition to take control of Taiwan.

It will also look at President Xi Jinpings controversial Belt and Road Initiative, and hear from Australian farmers and winemakers about the crippling tariffs and trade restrictions imposed on many Australian exports.

Tuesday November 16 and Wednesday November 17 at 8pm on SKY News.
It was an explosive (literally) finale for Wentworth last night after 9 years of drama.

Wentworth has amassed a legion of fans in Australia and overseas with fervent websites, social media accounts, fan fiction, petitions, and conventions.

As the final credits rolled to the sounds of Lynne Hamiltons On the Inside from the original Prisoner, fans took to social media to express both anguish and praise.

#ThankYouWentworth! Not sure well see such an incredible drama on Australian screens for 8 years again with the TV landscape here. Such a hit worldwide  #Wentworth  Brandon (@BrandonMcKay6) October 26, 2021

This show has been the true definition of an ensemble cast and crew.

Every time I try to pinpoint a fave character and actor, I find myself splitting hairs over umpteen perfectly written and acted nuances.

There has not been a show like it for me  #Wentworth  Colleen Lynch (@Killer_Coll) October 26, 2021

I cant believe this is over! Best show ever made  #wentworth  Cherry (@CherryPauline) October 26, 2021

Oh #Wentworth That finale has me sobbing. Beautiful. And Joans exit was brilliant.   Lee Winter (@LeeWinterOz) October 26, 2021

OH MY FRICKEN GOD! 

What a finish end of an era with the original song on the inside from Prisoner gave me goosebumps! (memories) 

WOW best show ever cant believe its ended  #Wentworth great cast fantastic performances       (@AnnaSerem) October 26, 2021

Perfect end to an absolutely incredible show #Wentworth  Josh Sam (@Joshie_Will) October 26, 2021

That was the best ending .. to one of the greatest shows  Im gonna miss my teal Tuesdays .. Im gonna miss my Wentworth family ..  #Wentworth  Lil (@BLilabuggurl) October 26, 2021

The show was formally axed at 7 seasons but fan frenzy demanded two more instalments, taking it to a mammoth 100 episodes -the most for any Foxtel original drama.

But the shows success left the Subscription TV company unable to proceed with other projects.

There are other stories we want to tell

There are other stories we want to tell, says Executive Director of Television Brian Walsh.

Were running a commercial business here. Weve got a finite budget. Id rather the show go out on top. Wentworth could go on, but its time to tell some new stories.

Producers Fremantle have not yet shut the gates on the Wentworth world, already exploring sequel ideas. And who can blame them, with a diehard fanbase and a hit series with Netflix around the world?

Foxtel has first rights of refusal on any further stories from the Wentworth universe, so would it entertain the idea of a sequel or spin-off?

I think its an obvious question, Walsh admits.

But I think we need to have a break. I dont think necessarily, wed recreate Wentworth Correctional Centre but I think that world is still tantalising and attractive.

Such a project would likely be years away with new stories to take priority.

Foxtel plans to replace the series with 10 part jury drama The Twelve, in mid 2022.

Each season will be a different crime and a different jury

We are in final stages of casting for The Twelve which is going to be a big ensemble piece. Its the replacement for Wentworth only in the sense that its a crime series. Our ambition is that it will be multi season. Each season will be a different crime and a different jury. We start filming on the 29th of November. That will be shot in Sydney and its a long shoot itll go through until May.

Filming has also completed on Love Me starring Hugo Weaving and Bojana Novakovic. It is currently in post production.

Im thrilled with how its come up. It looks so cinematic, and so global. Theres something about Melbourne that really works on the screen as an international city, Walsh explains.

Hugo Weaving really doesnt do a lot of television. Bojana Novakovic, whos primarily worked in the US for the last decade, is a fabulous actor. We have Bob Morley, another great Australian actor, whos largely worked in the US on The CW series The 100 and then the emerging stars that are coming through, William Lodder, Heather Mitchell, whos acting royalty. Its just a fabulous cast, a beautiful story, a multi-generational story.

Weve been looking for a show since A Place to Call Home and I really feel that Love Me in terms of reflecting a contemporary Australia, a story about three generations of a family who rediscover love at different stages of their life, will hit a nerve. Im really thrilled about it.

Weve just announced a second season of Upright. We have Tim Minchin and Milly Allcock who of course will be a global star once Game of Thrones sequel House of the Dragon goes to air next year. We start filming mid January in Far North Queensland.

And then we have another couple that were yet to announce.
CDC, along with many other professional healthcare experts, are committed to increasing awareness of AFM. Listen to members of our community of experts as they express their dedication to learn more about AFM.
By Carolyn Kroupa '22

One third of Daytons population lives below the poverty line, meaning they must choose between paying for food, rent or other expenses. This issue extends beyond the city to more than 41 million Americans who are food insecure and dont know where their next meal is coming from.

The Hall Hunger Initiative, which moved to the University of Dayton Fitz Center for Leadership in Community in September, works toward creating a more equitable food system.

We cant understand hunger unless we understand poverty, and we cant talk about poverty unless we talk about racism, said Mark Willis, Hall Hunger Initiative director, during a racial wealth gap simulation event Sept. 28 in the Kennedy Union ballroom.

Aligned with the Universitys mission to be an anti-racist institution, the simulation was an opportunity for students to learn how political systems uphold racism and to engage in thoughtful conversation outside of the classroom. During this interactive experiential learning event, students went step-by-step through the policies that created todays wealth gap in the U.S.

More than 100 participants gathered in small groups to learn about the racism of redlining  a discriminatory system of denying services to residents of certain, often racially associated, areas. Using a gamification approach, students were given cards related to race, wealth and land to highlight policies that embedded structural racism into cities. Students received cards at different rates, which allowed them to see differences in wealth, prosperity, exclusion and privilege based on race.

The goal of the simulation was to show students very explicitly how close at hand human rights issues are and that we have the power to change these exclusionary systems, said Miranda Hallett, associate director of the Human Rights Studies program and associate professor of cultural anthropology, who helped coordinate the event.

When we read issues or watch documentaries about systemic injustice, it can be easy to feel a distance between yourself and that experience, Hallett said. When youre a participant in this simulation, youre given a label, even if its only temporary, but that helps make the learning more real and close at hand.

Anna Beebe, a senior human rights studies major from Cincinnati who serves as the Human Rights Studies program student intern and Human Rights Center marketing and communications intern helped prepare for this event.

This simulation was a strong example of how all human rights are interconnected and showed why analyzing history is so valuable to creating equitable opportunities in our Dayton community and beyond, Beebe said.

Her chief takeaway from the simulation was that while most people think the system is broken, in reality, its working exactly how it was intended.

For example, the food and housing systems that exist now were created to oppress Black and brown communities, Beebe said. Throughout history, laws were passed to limit Black folks access to resources so white communities could rise above the marginalized.

Hallett said the simulation highlighted privilege and access to land and wealth and demonstrated opportunity hoarding. Opportunity hoarding allowed white privilege to become embedded in society, she said.

Willis told students that what happened in the 1930s and 1940s still shapes our community today. He said its harder to succeed in school when proper nutrition is not within reach. Food deserts have dangerous health outcomes and this can be seen in the racial disparity in life expectancy. The average life expectancy for Black people is five years less than white people, he said.

The racial wealth gap simulation is the first event in a year-long series organized by the Human Rights Center titled, Race, Place, and Human Rights. The series includes campus and Dayton community events advocating for human rights and racial justice that incorporate experiential learning activities about diversity and social justice issues.

The simulation humanized the experience of being excluded and asked participants to consider the whole system of policies, Hallett said. It can be difficult to bring up these topics. They dont naturally emerge in conversations, but this simulation provided space for open-ended peer-to-peer reflective conversation.

Willis concluded the event by encouraging participants to continue the conversation, educate themselves and others, and speak out against racism and discrimination.

Use your voice and speak up because no form of racism should be tolerated, he said

For more information, visit the Human Rights Center website.
The British Poultry Council has warned staff shortages may impact the supply of turkeys for Christmas. Photo: PA

Farming bosses have warned that acute shortages in the UK labour market due to both Brexit and COVID-19 mean there may not be enough turkeys and produce to go around at Christmas.

Speaking at a Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee session on Tuesday, British Poultry Council chair Graeme Dear said the industry is doing its utmost to provide produce, but that the UK government had not moved fast enough on addressing labour issues and supporting the industry.

He called for a two-year visa scheme in recognition of the fact that this is an issue that will persist past Christmas for the poultry industry.

Charlie Dewhirst, policy adviser at the National Pig Association, said it is a "deeply distressing time for the industry", noting how the shortage of butchers was weighing on the pig farming sector.

Watch: Pig farmers warn of 'welfare crisis' due to lack of butchers

He said it takes 18 months to train a butcher from scratch and that they are well-paid and skilled jobs that the industry is finding impossible to fill. A butcher in the UK is typically paid between 26,500 and 40,000.

Factors leading to the crunch in the sector included the loss of China export market, Brexit leading to an acute loss of workers, and travel restrictions during COVID making the UK an unwelcome place to do business and work.

The National Pig Association has been having weekly crisis meetings with the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs since February.

Tom Bradshaw, vice president of the National Farmers' Union (NFU), said the labour shortages are "completely inexcusable" and that changes need to be made urgently.

According to NFU figures, there was a 34% shortfall in available labour in the peak month of July in the industry.

Read more: Budget 2021: Public sector pay freeze to end, says Sunak

He said nearly a quarter of the daffodils growing in Cornwall went wasted this year, which are usually worth 100m for the Cornish economy.

Story continues

Businesses are also mothballing future produce in anticipation of the problems continuing.

"I've never seen the industry in the position it's in at the moment," he said. "It's only as we're at the cliff-edge that anything has been put in place."

Derek Jarman, chair designate of the British Protected Ornamentals Association, said that due to Brexit, the "pool of labour is diminishing year by year" and that a reduction in VAT would help support businesses in his corner of the market.

The calls from farming bosses come following a period of high stress for both supply chains and labour markets in the UK.

Earlier this year, the Road Haulage Association warned there could be a shortage of around 100,000 drivers in future months.

This has sparked empty shelves in supermarkets and fears of the delivery of fresh produce in the future.

Watch: Labour: Shortage plans should have been made months ago
Day 3 of Event #43: $1,000 Double Stack No-Limit Holdem has concluded and after ten hour-long levels of play, the start of day field of 149 was whittled down to just 17 players, who are playing for the $446,983 first-place prize and a WSOP bracelet.

Leading the way by a large margin is bracelet winner Michael Wang, who bagged up 24,300,000 chips, nearly double that of second place. Wang spent the majority of the day nursing a short stack, but after some timely doubles and a clash with bigger stack Edwin Lee, Wang found himself well ahead of everyone else in the chip counts. The American pros biggest lifetime cash was his bracelet win in 2015 in the $5,000 No-Limit Holdem for $466,120, and he will be looking to add a second piece of poker jewelry to his collection.

Wang is not the only bracelet winner left in the field. Bagging 13,325,000 chips was South Korean bracelet winner Sejin Park. Park is now enjoying his fifth cash of this years World Series Of Poker. Parks bracelet came in 2019 when he took down the $400 No-Limit Hold'em-Colossus, beating a field of 13,109 entrants to win his career-best score of $451,272; he now sits in the top three chip stacks going into Day 4.

Jonathan Dokler is the other bracelet winner still in the field. Dokler took down the $500 Kick-Off 2020 WSOP Online for his first WSOP bracelet, and like the two players above, will be searching for his second. Dokler bagged 12,875,000 chips and is another player who battled on the short stack for a good portion of the day. Patience paid off as he is now one of the top five stacks.

Not all bracelet winners were so fortunate during the day. Martin Jacobson (145th - $3,124) and Tuan Le (140th - $3,557) departed from the tournament quite early. Other notable players fell by the wayside as the day progressed such as Jeremy Pekarek (132nd - $3,557), Rafaelle Sorrentino (89th - $4,716), Niall Farrell (88th - $4,716), Antoine Saout (57th - $7,600), and Ralph Massey (23rd - $15,856).

Second in chips to start the day Sylvain Naets was coolered when his pocket kings ran into pocket aces and his tournament ended in 97th place for $4,081.

The other start-of-the-day chip leader was PokerGO commentator Jeff Platt who was more fortunate and able to find a bag for 8,075,000 chips at the end of the day. While most know Platt for his role in PokerGO, Platt has amassed over $300K in lifetime earnings, including 14 WSOP cashes. Platt spent most of the day steadily building his chip stack and never really dipped out of the top five in chip counts. Platt comes back with 26 big blinds and will be going for his first WSOP bracelet.

Final Two Tables Seat Draw

Table Seat Player Chip Count Table 414 1 Matthew Raffoul 6,900,000 Table 414 2 -empty Table 414 3 Gary Floyd 2,750,000 Table 414 4 Dustin Goff 7,350,000 Table 414 5 Sejin Park 13,325,000 Table 414 6 Jeff Platt 8,075,000 Table 414 7 Alex Kulev 9,550,000 Table 414 8 Anthony Denove 8,475,000 Table 414 9 Kenneth Inouye 7,475,000 Table 421 1 Timothy Little 11,475,000 Table 421 2 Alexander Farahi 10,725,000 Table 421 3 David Guay 3,800,000 Table 421 4 Joshua Harrison 14,725,000 Table 421 5 Steven Stolzenfeld 6,900,000 Table 421 6 Jonathan Dokler 12,875,000 Table 421 7 Yin Wu 4,600,000 Table 421 8 Michael Wang 24,300,000 Table 414 9 Frank Lagodich 6,300,000

Play is set to begin at 12 P.M. tomorrow, Tuesday, October 26th at The Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino with blinds coming back at 150,000/300,000 with a 300,000 big blind ante. The intention is to play as many 60-minute levels as necessary to get down to five players. Then, the final five players will play out the final table on Wednesday, October 27th.

Stay tuned to PokerNews for all of the updates on all of the World Series Of Poker Events.
The final day of Event #46: $800 No-Limit Hold'em Deepstack has been played to its conclusion. Day 2 started with 120 players that returned to action from a 2,053-entry field and after eight hours of play, it was Chad Norton who came out victorious to win his first WSOP bracelet, along with $214,830 in his first ever WSOP event.

"This is surreal," Norton stated after his win. "It was a quick tournament with a lot of ups and downs like always but it was a lot of fun and I'm just really grateful to come out with the win."

The win wasn't an easy one for Norton, as he had an uphill battle coming into the final day with just over ten big blinds.

"In one of the final hands of Day 1 I lost pocket kings against ace-queen for 1.2 million," Norton continued, "It would have been nice coming into today with a nice chip stack but instead I came in with 380k and fought my way back somehow."

Norton, an ex-cars salesman turned online poker player hasn't played many live tournaments and told PokerNews that this in-fact was his first ever live WSOP tournament.

"To be honest I've only played in one WPT event and this was my first ever live WSOP tournament," said Norton. "I play mostly online but I came in on such a down swing so to be able to come in and win my first ever WSOP tournament feels amazing."

Event #46 Final Table Payouts

Place Player Country Prize Money 1 Chad Norton United States $214,830 2 Steve Lemma United States $132,802 3 Andres Jeckeln Argentina $98,269 4 Narimaan Ahmadi United States $73,271 5 Ivan Uzunov Bulgaria $55,279 6 Kevin Wang United States $42,031 7 Jordyn Miller United States $32,254 8 William Blais Canada $24,982 9 Joshua Herman Canada $19,533

Day 2 Action

There were 120 players that returned to the felt for the final day with each of them looking to walk away a WSOP bracelet winner. With each of them already having $1,956 locked up, players started tossing their chips into the middle in hopes of amassing a nice lead.

That was the case for some but not all as a hectic start of play all-in fest began and the march to the final table was on. Among those to fall along the way, albeit with a payday, were Marc Masino (10th - $15,417), Day 1 chip leader Alejandro Andion (36th - $5,463), two-time WSOP bracelet winners Eric Baldwin (62nd - $3,305) & James Moore (70th - $2,853), and all-time WSOPC ring winner Maurice Hawkins (115th - $1,956).

Norton's Hot Final Table Run

Norton started the unofficial final table third in chips but it only took one hand for him to climb to the top after he turned a full house to double through Kevin Wang.

From there Norton continued to add to his chip lead after he eliminated Joshua Herman with ace-high in ninth place, and then coolered William Blais, who was second in chips, in an aces-versus-kings hand to take a commanding chip lead.

Norton took a break from tossing players from the final table for a brief moment after Jordyn Miller's made hand of tens were rivered by Andres Jeckeln's ace-eight offsuit.

Shortly after Miller's departure, Norton climbed back aboard the elimination train to knockout Wang holding a dominating ace, and then he finished off Narimaan Ahmadi in similar fashion.

From there, Norton held over half of the chips in play with only three players remaining, and it quickly got to heads-up after Jeckeln departed in third place after failing to win a race against Steve Lemma.

Norton held a 3:1 chip lead to start the heads-up battle, and it didn't take long for Lemma to take his exit after his queen-nine off came up short against the dead mans hand of Norton.

Chad Norton & Rail

This concludes the PokerNews coverage of this event but check out the WSOP Live Reporting Hub to follow all the exciting action here at the Rio All-Suite Hotel and Casino.

Check out our 2021 WSOP Hub here!
Armenia is a bastion of democracy has become a catchphrase for the government that has ruled since 2018. But international watchdogs are alarmed as the authorities increasingly threaten the countrys freedom of speech, Ani Mejlumyan writes for Eurasianet.

These efforts have accelerated over the past year, following Armenias loss in the war with Azerbaijan and increasing political pressure against the ruling party and Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan. On October 9, the Constitutional Court upheld a new law passed this year that substantially raised the penalties for insults aimed at individuals for their public activities. The maximum fine for the offense is about $12,600, or on the order of 30 times the usual monthly salary of a journalist in Armenia.

Critics say the law was designed to protect government officials, and in at least two cases since the beginning of September at least three Armenians have been charged with violating the law for insulting Pashinyan on Facebook.

So far, no journalists have been charged under the new law, but press freedom advocates are concerned about a chilling effect. The new law represents a huge step back for freedom of expression in Armenia and a serious threat for press freedom," said Jeanne Cavelier of international press watchdog Reporters Without Borders. Cavalier told Eurasianet that the Constitutional Court decision was "very disappointing" and said the law could "seriously deter and intimidate the press.

Undeterred, the government appears to be pressing ahead with more restrictions. On October 19, a member of parliament from the ruling Civil Contract party, Artur Hovhannisyan, proposed amendments to the Law on Mass Media that would effectively ban the use of unidentified sources. The revisions alter media law in several ways, including adding requirements for media outlets to submit financial reports and to disclose their ownership. But the most attention has been paid to the amendment that would make media outlets liable for slander if they cite an unidentified source who is deemed to have defamed or insulted someone.

It is clear that a journalist is not obliged to reveal an anonymous source, but this does not mean that when a journalist does not reveal an anonymous source, the journalist is exempt from liability, Minister of Justice Karen Adreasyan said at a parliament session discussing the law.

In fact, under Armenian law a court can only force a journalist to disclose a source in the case that the information is needed to solve a serious crime. Even in those cases, the European Court of Human Rights typically rules in favor of the journalist being allowed to maintain the secrecy of a source.

To many observers, it appears that the law was particularly aimed at the anonymous Telegram news channels that have proliferated in Armenia in recent years. Many of them specialize in news about politics, military, and foreign policy  usually with an anti-government perspective  and their scoops are often reprinted in more traditional online media. One channel that has particularly gotten under the skin of the authorities is Mediaport, formed after the end of last years war with Azerbaijan and which frequently leaks information  sometimes accurate, sometimes not, but nearly all critical of the government  to its 26,000 subscribers.

Media and press advocacy groups in Armenia complain that they were only perfunctorily consulted about the law. "The parliament invited NGOs to discuss it, but nobody approved of the initiative," media expert Artur Papyan told Eurasianet. Papyan hosts a program on the news website CivilNet devoted to disinformation and fact-checking, and wonders how the law will affect his work. "Can I keep doing my program, or will I be dragged to court?" While the law appears to be targeting Telegram channels, it is clear that tools to control the media are being created to be used selectively, targeting only certain media outlets," Papyan said.

Lawsuits drastically increased

Even before these new laws were introduced, there had been signs of a growing crackdown on freedom of speech. The Armenian media rights group Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression registered 10 legal cases filed against media and journalists in the first quarter of 2021, and 23 in the second quarter. Of those cases, 12 were filed by a single person and companies associated with him: Khachatur Sukiasyan, a businessman and recently elected member of parliament from Civil Contract, the ruling party.

"Even without the [new] restrictive legal measures, the flow of lawsuits against media and journalists drastically increased during the second quarter, the organization wrote in a July report.

Meanwhile, government officials  led by Pashinyan himself  have tried to turn their supporters against the press by using inflammatory rhetoric. "At the same time, whereas this worrying evolution of laws and restrictions shows a lack of tolerance to criticism from the Armenian authorities, we observe that representatives of the government sometimes use violent rhetoric to speak about journalists, Cavalier said. Pashinyan has called journalists killers and said the media space in Armenia is a garbage dump, Cavalier recalled. And Pashinyan himself used to be an editor in chief [of a newspaper]! she added. (He used to head the newspaper Armenian Times, which is now run by his wife, Anna Hakobyan.) This hostile speech only fuels the climate of impunity for violence and crimes against journalists.

The crackdown on free speech is the result of the governments paranoia, said media analyst Samvel Martirosyan. "The government is weak and the majority of media is not under their control, he told Eurasianet. Every successive government in Armenia has tried to do something about negative media coverage. "They don't think that criticism represents public sentiment, its very typical for all our governments to lose touch with reality and see every criticism as biased and paid-for," Martirosyan said. Unlike the previous regime, which was better able to directly manage media coverage, the new government uses different tools, Martirosyan said. The president's office doesn't make calls to television stations, so they need laws to control information," he said. The former authorities had an old-fashioned approach to media, he added. They prioritized the control of television. The current government came to power via the internet and they overprioritize the internet, giving everything there a significance that sometimes doesnt reflect reality.

In its Freedom on the Net report, released last month, the U.S-based human rights organization Freedom House registered a drop in Armenias internet freedom, from 75 out of 100 in 2020 to 71 in 2021.
Iran in recent weeks has stated on more than one occasion, that is willing to return to the negotiation table for talks pertaining to the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action)/Iran Nuclear deal (the Vienna negotiations which began in April 2021 have been on hold since June 2021). The US has on more than one occasion expressed the view, that Iran needs to show greater urgency with regard to getting back to talks on the Iran Nuclear deal .

Modern Diplomacy reports that the US Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken while addressing the press, on October 13, 2021, before his meeting with Foreign Ministers of UAE and Israel: We continue to believe that diplomacy is the most effective way to do that, but it takes two to engage in diplomacy, and we have not  we have not seen from Iran a willingness to do that at this point. In August 2021, US President Biden in a meeting with the Israeli PM, Naftali Bennett had said that Washington was willing to explore other options, if diplomacy with Iran did not work (this was in stark contrast to his stance vis-a-vis Iran in his initial days in office).

It would be important to point out, that Russia has been playing a key role in getting Iran back to the negotiating table, while also urging the US to remove some of the sanctions it has imposed on Iran. During the visit of Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian to Moscow earlier this month, a number of issues pertaining to the Iran-Russia relationship were discussed during the meeting between Abdollahian and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, the Iran Nuclear deal however was high on the agenda. Here it would be pertinent to point out, that Iran is seeking to sign a strategic agreement with Russia along the lines of what it had signed with China, and Russia would thus have significant leverage vis-a-vis Tehran. While commenting on the same, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Saeed Khatibzadeh said: The initial arrangements of this document, entitled the Global Agreement for Cooperation between Iran and Russia, have been concluded, Iran and Russia have also been working jointly in Syria to keep Syrian President Bashar Al Assad in power.

During Israeli PM Naftali Bennetts recent visit to Moscow, on October 22, 2021 while a number of bilateral issues were discussed during his meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the Iran issue was also discussed. While Putin is supposed to have put forward the Russian stance which favours a diplomatic solution for dealing with the issue of nuclear enrichment by Iran, while Israel expressed its concerns with regard to Irans nuclear program.

While Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC countries), such as Saudi Arabia and UAE, which were opposed to revival of the Iran Nuclear deal have toned down their opposition to the deal, since they themselves are working to improve ties with Iran, Israel has been fervent in its opposition to the revival of the deal, and the Biden Administration of late has also begun to adopt a more aggressive stance (not very different from that of the Trump Administration) and seems to be unwilling to make any significant concessions in order to revive JCPOA .

It remains to be seen, if Russias relationship with Israel can play any role in softening the latters opposition to the Iran Nuclear deal. Apart from this, Moscow whose ties with Iran have strengthened will also play an important role in getting Tehran back to the negotiating table on the Iran nuclear deal, and could also convince Iran to avoid a maximalist approach towards the Iran nuclear deal. In recent months, Moscows strategic importance has risen not on account of its proximity to Beijing, but because its stance on the situation in Afghanistan and Iran has been pragmatic, and Moscow has not kowtowed to Beijing in spite of the fact that its ties with Washington ties are far from cordial. Moscow is also one of the few countries which has been able to maintain good ties with both Israel and Iran.

It remains to be seen, if Russias intervention on key global issues especially the Iran Nuclear deal can achieve any tangible results. A lot will also depend upon whether the Biden Administration, which has drawn flak for its handling of Afghanistan, is willing to think out of the box and exhibit risk appetite. It is also important that Washington-Moscow ties remain manageable if not perfect, and that both countries realize the importance of working closely on important global issues.
Could the era of cheap oil supply be gone for good? Thats the conclusion of some of the biggest commodities desks on Wall Street, where banks have been lifting their long-term price forecasts, often by $10 or more.

World Oil reports that while the U.S. shale boom brought about a lower-for-longer mantra, the market is now fixated on climate change and the dwindling appetite to invest in fossil fuels. Instead of growing supply, companies are under pressure to limit their spending, causing a structural under-investment in new production that -- the argument goes -- will keep oil prices higher for longer. My advice to clients is that you want to stay long oil until you know where that equilibrium price is that brings new supplies online, said Jeff Currie, head of commodities research at Goldman Sachs Group Inc. We know its above these levels because we havent had a big uptick in capex and investment.

Higher Crude

The notion of a supply gap is nothing new. Since prices crashed in 2014, analysts have talked up the potential for demand to outstrip production as a result of underinvestment. But the rout in energy prices from Covid-19, combined with pressing environmental concerns, offer reason to think this time is different. The number of oil and gas drilling rigs globally may have recovered from the lows of when oil prices turned negative last year, but they are still down more than 30% on the start of 2020. Current figures are about as low as they were in 2016, according to Baker Hughes Co., despite headline crude prices being near a seven-year high.

Future View

Among the banks seeing higher prices for longer, Goldman says $85 for 2023. Morgan Stanley bumped what it calls its long-term forecast up by $10 to $70 this week, while BNP Paribas sees crude at almost $80 in 2023. Other banks including RBC Capital Markets have talked up the prospect of oil being at the start of a structural bull run.

Such estimates imply that a commodity vital to the global economy has become structurally more expensive. Oil price expectations underpin hundreds of billions of dollars of equity valuations for major international oil companies like Royal Dutch Shell Plc and BP Plc.

Theres an ever-dwindling appetite to lend on the part of investors too. In the last week alone, the largest French banks said they would curb the financing of the shale oil and gas industry from early next year. Ecuador recently had to double the amount of banks that could provide it with credit guarantees as financial institutions shunned crude harvested from the Amazon.

Unsustainable

Not everyone supports the idea that prices can be stay at elevated levels. Citigroup Inc. said in a report this month that crude below $30 and above $60 looks unsustainable in the long-term. A prolonged price above $50 could add 7 million barrels a day of extra supply, the banks analysts including Ed Morse wrote in a note. Mid-term, cost indicators keep pointing to a fair-value range between $40-$55 a barrel, they said. But others see a tide thats turning, especially given changes in the U.S., which has effectively become a swing producer in recent years.

On one front, publicly listed U.S. shale companies remain constrained in growing production. When EOG Resources Inc. said in February that it planned to grow output its shares fell the most of any company on the S&P 500. There have been few, if any, similar comments from producers since.

Alongside that, the impact of field declines is growing clearer. In November, the Permian Basin was the only onshore U.S. field to show meaningful year-on-year production growth. All others were either flat or down, according to an Energy Information Administration report.

Similarly, while some of the key OPEC+ producers find themselves with spare capacity that they can dip into next year, others including Nigeria and Angola are already showing signs of struggling to lift production further. People have become very comfortable with the idea that shale will be there and were not resource constrained, said David Martin, head of commodities desk strategy at BNP Paribas. Thats a question mark in my mind.

And in a world spending less money on fossil fuels, questions then turn to demand, which doesnt look like peaking any time soon. The International Energy Agency said earlier this month that spending on fossil fuels is lower than needed if current demand growth continues. It only sees oil demand starting to decline in the 2030s under current policies. However, Morgan Stanley estimates that supply could stop expanding by 2025, leaving a sizable gap. We are running at net-zero type capex levels, whilst at the same time demand is not following the net-zero trajectory, said Martijn Rats, an oil strategist at the bank. Demand will be above 100 million barrels a day for the rest of the 2020s, but on the supply side were not going to produce that with current investment levels.
Exactly a year ago, on September 27, 2020, Azerbaijan's Patriotic War began. On that day, Armenia's occupying forces subjected the positions of the armed forces of Azerbaijan along the front line and the adjacent populated areas in Azerbaijan to intensive fire with the use of large-calibre weapons, artillery and mortars. Baku decided to launch a counter-offensive operation to ensure the safety of the civilian population. Vestnik Kavkaza offers its readers to follow the events of the 44 days of Azerbaijan's Patriotic War as they were covered a year ago.

On the war's thirtieth day, October 26, the truce introduced the day before lasted only five minutes. Shelling of settlements in the Terter region was resumed. Artillery strikes by the Armenian Armed Forces began on the border settlements of Azerbaijan. It became known that the Iranian army is ready to respond to Armenia if Armenian shells hit Iranian territory.



The Russian Foreign Ministry declared the inadmissibility of a military solution to the Armenian-Azerbaijani conflict. Baku said that the Azerbaijani authorities will support the peaceful population of Karabakh and the invaders who refused to fight. In response, the invaders fired at the front-line Agjabedi region of Azerbaijan.

Azerbaijan reported on the accelerated supply of electricity to the liberated lands, the laying of gas pipelines has also begun. The head of the Armenian border service was deprived of his post for the defeat of the occupation troops.



A photo has appeared showing the Armenian military dressed up in Azerbaijani uniforms. The death toll under the shelling of the occupiers of civilians in Azerbaijan has reached 65 people. Another action in support of the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan was held in Canada.



The Liberation Army of Azerbaijan continued to eliminate the invaders' drones. Artillery and rocket attacks from the occupied territories continued throughout the day, including from the Smerch MLRS, one of the missiles was intercepted. In the village of Garadaghly, Aghdam region, a school came under attack.

In the evening, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan said that Yerevan was ready for "painful concessions". At the same time, his wife said that she was "going to the frontline." Video footage of the liberated village of Padar in the Gubadli region, then the liberated village of Khanlyg was published.

In total, the Armenian Armed Forces fired more than 200 shells and missiles at the settlements of Azerbaijan per day. In the Dashkesan region, Armenian shells set fire to a forest.



Scandalous video footage of the invaders who arrived at the front complaining about the complete disorganization of the army was published. At the same time, the Ministry of Defense of Armenia confirmed the liberation of the city of Gubadli from the Armenian occupation.

Late in the evening, video footage of the liberated city of Gubadli was published.

Thus, on the thirtieth day of the war, the Azerbaijani liberation army, having consolidated its position in the south up to the Gubadli region, was preparing a counteroffensive in Lachin in order to cut the last supply route of the invaders in the occupied lands. Yerevan tried to compensate for this by strengthening artillery strikes on Terter and other front-line and border settlements of Azerbaijan.
President of Turkey Recep Tayyip Erdogan has arrived in the Republic of Azerbaijan for official visit.

A guard of honor was arranged for the Turkish President at the Fuzuli International Airport decorated with the national flags of the two countries.

President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev welcomed Erdogan at the airport.

An opening ceremony of the Fuzuli International Airport attended by the presidents has been held. Azerbaijani and Turkish presidents cut the ribbon symbolizing the opening of the airport.

The symbolic keys of the Fuzuli International Airport were handed over to the presidents.

Earlier, the heads of state viewed conditions created at the airport.
An urgent discussion on the situation on the Armenian-Azerbaijani contact line and border delimitation issues of public interest will be held in a closed session at the National Assembly (NA) of Armenia.

This proposal was adopted in the NA Tuesday by 63 votes in favor and 17 abstentions.

Also, it was decided that Kamo Kochunts, First Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces, and Arman Maralchyan, Commander of the Border Troops, will have the opportunity to make a related remarks at that discussion. This decision was adopted unanimously by 86 votes in favor, News.am reported.
U.S. President Joe Biden coughed into his hand following a speech in New Jersey and proceeded to use it to shake hands with members of the public, all while not wearing a mask.

The incident comes less than a week after Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas tested positive for COVID-19 just days following an event with the president, Fox reported.

Last Tuesday, a fully vaccinated Mayorkas tested positive for COVID-19 as part of routine pre-travel protocols.

Three days earlier, Mayorkas had attended the 40th Annual National Peace Officers Memorial Service at the U.S. Capitol alongside Biden, where they were photographed just feet apart without masks.

"Secretary Mayorkas is experiencing only mild congestion; he is fully vaccinated and will isolate and work at home per CDC protocols and medical advice," DHS spokesperson Marsha Espinosa said at the time.
The Egyptian Armed Forces' Engineering Authority announced a contest to propose names, logos, and slogans for the New Administrative Capital with all citizens eligible to bid.

Egypt is preparing to open the fourth-generation new capital, being constructed since 2015 over 170,000 feddans, by the end of this year and to relocate tens of thousands of employees there.

The new capital, located east of Cairo, is set to house 6.5 million people and host all ministries, parliament, government institutions as well as residential units and all services.

The engineering authority, which undertakes mega government projects nationwide, invited "all Egyptian people" to send their proposals to choose a name and a slogan for the new capital, as well as an innovative logo and distinguished "visual identity," according to a statement by the Ministry of Defence.

Citizens can submit their proposals by the deadline of November 18. A committee of experts, intellectuals and writers will sort and examine the proposals.

The designed "visual identity" for the new capital should "reflect the state's vision regarding the establishment of new smart cities and the advancement of society through science, art, innovation, sustainable development, and modern technology," the statement read.

The contest "comes within the framework of the Armed Forces' keenness to benefit from the creativity of the Egyptian people in national projects that it supervises and as part of preparations for inaugurating the New Administrative Capital," the statement added.
The dialogue on strategic stability is developing in a right direction, it is professional and substantial, Russian Ambassador to the US Anatoly Antonov said, speaking at the International Advisory Council of James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies - CNS of Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey (California) Monday.

"On September 30, Geneva hosted the second round of consultations between the interagency delegations led by deputy foreign ministers. The conversation is developing in the right direction and of a professional and substantive nature," the Russian Embassys Facebook page quoted him as saying. "An important result already achieved thus far is the definition of the goal of the strategic dialogue. The two Sides have agreed that it should focus on identifying the parameters of an arms control regime to be built upon the New START Treaty," the Russian ambassador noted.

According to the diplomat, the delegations managed to resolve organizational issues, among others. "Two working groups have been established to discuss common approaches to prospective arms control instruments, frameworks and goals for the future regime," he said. "The Sides have also agreed to deal with specific types and classes of weapons, technologies and activities that have an impact on strategic stability," TASS cited the envoy as saying.

The Russian ambassador noted that in this context "the Sides intend to discuss not only specific types and classes of nuclear and non-nuclear weapons capable of performing strategic missions, but also the actions of the Sides that have a strategic effect." "It is our understanding that such an approach provides an opportunity for the two delegations to reach a set of agreements and understandings that may have different statuses and include measures in both arms control and risk reduction," he explained.

The diplomat stressed that from the point of view of the Russian side, there should be no "preconditions" for discussing particular topics in any of the working groups or at plenary meetings in general. "The Russian Side is ready to discuss any national security or strategic stability issues," he emphasized, expressing hope that the American colleagues would not ignore Russias priorities and concerns.

"The two great nuclear powers - Russia and the United States - should treat their bilateral relations carefully. Global strategic stability depends largely on our countries. For a reason, the backlog of problems and irritants accumulated in Russia-US affairs over the recent years is a matter of concern not only for Moscow and Washington, but also for capitals of other states," the Russian envoy said.

The diplomat also stressed that it was important not to politicize the discussion which is currently of a professional nature.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan backed down from his threat to expel 10 Western ambassadors over their joint statement of support for a jailed civil society leader, Al Jazeera reported.

Erdogan said during the weekend he had ordered the envoys to be declared persona non grata for seeking the release of prominent philanthropist Osman Kavala, detained for 4 years on charges of financing protests and involvement in an attempted coup.

He spoke after the United States and several of the other concerned countries issued identical statements saying they respected a UN convention that required diplomats not to interfere in the host countrys domestic affairs.

Erdogan said the new statement shows they have taken a step back from the slander against our country, adding: They will be more careful now.

The envoys from Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Sweden, Finland, New Zealand and the U.S. called last week for a just and speedy resolution to Kavalas case, and for his urgent release.

Earlier, Erdogan welcomed statements on Monday by several Western embassies. They were made almost simultaneously on Twitter as Erdogan entered a cabinet meeting to discuss the possible expulsion of the diplomats.
Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Monday slammed envoys of 10 countries over their statement on the ongoing case of businessman Osman Kavala.

The ambassadors who issued the statement on the Kavala case directly target Turkey's jurisdiction, right of sovereignty, Erdogan said following a Cabinet meeting at the Presidential Complex in Ankara.



Turkey cannot tolerate ambassadors questioning its judiciary, while even the country's legislative and executive organs cannot interfere according to the Turkish Constitution, he noted.



Also, he described the recent move as a great insult to all judiciary members in the country, including judges, prosecutors, and lawyers.



Erdogan added that anyone who does not respect the independence of Turkey and the sensitivities of the Turkish nation cannot live in this country, regardless of their title.



"It is the duty of the head of state to give the necessary response to this disrespect towards our judicial members via independent, impartial judiciary," he noted.



Also, our intention is never to cause a crisis, but to protect our country's law, honor, interests, and sovereignty rights, Erdogan noted.



Those who turn to their old habits, seeing Turkey's kindness as weakness, will be responded accordingly, as long as they do not admit their wrongdoing, Erdogan also said.



Earlier, the Turkish Foreign Ministry had summoned the ambassadors of these countries - U.S., Canada, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Norway, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Germany, and France - for meddling in the Turkish judiciary.



Erdogan had said he ordered the foreign minister to declare 10 ambassadors persona non grata over their statement on the ongoing case of Kavala.



Early on Monday, the 10 embassies in Turkey announced that they abide by Article 41 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which calls on the envoys not to interfere in the internal affairs of the states they serve in.
The Islamic Republic of Iran and neighboring Turkmenistan have agreed to increase the volume of their bilateral trade as much as possible, IFP reports.

Today we agreed to review the joint cooperation document between the two countries. So far, more than 100 official documents have been signed  and our agreement is on a comprehensive document of cooperation and increasing bilateral trade to a maximum level. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said after discussions with his Turkmen counterpart Rashid Meredov in Tehran.

The top Iranian diplomat announced that an agreement had been reached with Turkmenistan on reopening the transit route for trucks from four border crossings adding that a basic agreement has been reached on provincial cooperation, and collaboration in the fields of electricity, water and other areas of interest.

During a joint press conference, the top Turkmen diplomat said we talked about business development and bringing the volume of exchanges to the highest level, and we decided to take trade relations to the highest level in terms of quantity and quality. The Turkmen side is fully prepared for this.

I would like to emphasize that the Islamic Republic of Iran and Turkmenistan, as two friendly and brotherly countries, are taking steps and cooperating with each other, Meredov added.

The Turkmen foreign minister is in Tehran to attend the meeting of Afghanistans neighbors plus Russia to be held in Tehran on Wednesday.
Germany's President Frank Walter Steinmeier has asked the outgoing chancellor, Angela Merkel, to perform her duties until a new government is formed, the press-service of the head of state said on Tuesday.

"This request was made in accordance with item three of paragraph 69 of the fundamental law. The constituent sitting of the 20th Bundestag is being held today," the news release reads.

The powers of federal chancellor and government ministers expire on the day of the parliament's constituent sitting. If a new Cabinet has not been formed by this moment, and this is precisely the situation in Germany today, the previous government is technically out of office, but continues to perform its duties without any restrictions.

Merkel and all other government officials will receive resignation papers from Steinmeier after 18:00 Moscow time.

At the constituent sitting of the Bundestag, the seats usually taken by the chancellor and government ministers are vacant. They are seated on the upper gallery from where visitors usually watch the debate.

Talks on a future coalition are being held by the Social Democratic Party, Free Democratic Party and Greens. It is not ruled out that the name of Germany's new chancellor will be announced in December. Then the current government's powers will be completely terminated.
Russian President Vladimir Putin discussed the climatic agenda with Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Boris Johnson on the verge of the UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow and reassured him that Russia intends to consistently reduce the carbon footprint, the Kremlins press service said on Monday after the telephone conversation between the two leaders.

"Climate problems were discussed in detail in the light of preparation of the British side to the forthcoming global leaders summit in Glasgow on November 1-2, which will open the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26)," the press service said.

The commitment to international obligations and the "intention to consistently reduce the carbon footprint of the national economy" were noted from the Russian side, the Kremlin added.

"Boris Johnson welcomed Russias plans to achieve the net zero by 2060 at the latest. Vladimir Putin noted that the Russian delegation deputed to Glasgow will facilitate the successful work of such important international forum," the Kremlins press service noted.

The sides also discussed certain topical issues of the international agenda, including Afghanistan, the JCPOA, the situation in Ukraine

This was the first telephone contact between the two leaders from May 8, 2020.
UPCoM attracts investors thanks to stock potential

VNA/VNP

The Unlisted Public Company Market (UPCoM) is increasingly attracting investors thanks to the potential of its stocks.As of October 21 this year, market capitalisation of UPCoM reached 1.42 quadrillion VND (62.4 billion USD), an increase of nearly half compared to the beginning of the year, more than three times higher than the Hanoi Stock Exchange (HNX) and equal to 26 percent of the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HOSE).Of the 903 businesses trading on UPCoM, 23 have a market capitalisation of more than 10 trillion VND, with some stock codes having very high values such as the State-run Airports Corporation of Vietnam (ACV), Viettel Global Investment JSC (VGI) - a subsidiary of telecom giant Viettel Group, Masan Consumer Corporation (MCH) and Binh Son Refinery (BSR).UPCoM recently has attracted strong cash flow, evidenced by the increase of UPCoM-Index and strong improvement in liquidity.The UPCoM-Index reached 47.74 points at the end of April 2021, rising to 96.56 nearly 100 points by October 21. The five strongest gainers on the UPCOM in September were Cao Bang Sugar JSC (CBS), Hoa Binh Minerals Joint Stock Company (KHB), Viet Nhat Investment Corporation (VNH), PV - Inconess Investment Joint Stock Company (RGC) and Vinacomin - Pilot JSC (HTH), with increases of 113 to 158 percent.Liquidity recorded growth month by month. In September alone, UPCoM had more than 2.4 billion shares transferred, up 12.7 percent, with a transaction value of 42.4 trillion VND, up 9.39 percent compared to August.On average in September, the trading volume reached approximately 121.4 million shares per session, worth more than 2.1 trillion VND, up 24 percent and 20.3 percent, respectively compared to August.In the last three months, Binh Son Refinery (BSR), eo Ca Traffic Infrastructure Investment JSC (HHV) and Vietnam National Textile & Garment Group (VGT) were named the top three most interesting stocks on UPCoM. In September, BSR had a trading volume of 216.6 million shares, HHV 154.8 million shares, and VGT 138.4 million shares. The next two were Viet Trung Nam Investment And Development JSC (VHG) and DAMAC GLS JSC (KSH), with a volume of 129.7 million shares and 112.7 million shares, respectively.Not only has the trading volume of domestic investors increased, UPCoM is increasingly attracting the attention of foreign investors. In the third quarter of 2021, foreign investors net bought VN613 billion. Particularly in September, foreign investors traded 45.2 million shares, equivalent to nearly 1.7 trillion VND, and net bought more than 378 billion VND.The top five stocks bought most by foreign investors in September were eo Ca Traffic Infrastructure Investment JSC (HHV), Quang Ngai Sugar Joint Stock Company (QNS), Vietnam Engine and Agricultural Machinery Corporation (VEA), Airports Corporation Of VietNam (ACV), and Thinh Vuong Electric Construction Investment and Trading Joint Stock Company (TV6), with an equivalent trading volume reaching 5.4 million units, 5.2 million units, 3.9 million units, 2.2 million units and 1.5 million units, respectively.According to the Hanoi Stock Exchange, the operator of UPCoM, the UPCoM market is the cradle to nurture and develop businesses, thereby helping them get used to trading.HNX was focusing on researching the innovation of UPCoM to increase the attractiveness of the unlisted market segment, contributing to promoting the process of equitisation, divestment and transparency of market operations.HNX has issued the regulation on organisation and management of the unlisted securities trading market, which updated new regulations on equitisation and sale of State capital by the book-building method."HNX will propose to widen the trading price band on UPCoM, and at the same time continue to promote support programmes and transparency for businesses," the HNX leader said.Compared to the two listed exchanges of HoSE and HNX, UPCoM has larger trading price band, attracting investors. However, stocks on UPCoM are not allowed to trade on margin, daily liquidity is low, the number of frequently traded stocks is only about 20 percent.However, many businesses are considered to have a stable business foundation and growth prospects.A part of businesses on UPCoM are now qualified to list on HOSE or HNX, but still stay on this exchange because the ownership rate of public shareholders is low, while internal shareholders have no demand to switch floor. On the UPCoM, businesses are not under much pressure on information disclosure as well as other obligations as on HoSE and HNX./
Economic experts say that for over 30 years of development, Vietnam has not yet built a strong team of private enterprises which play the role of a "launch pad" for the country's economic development.

The report on "Strengthening the private sectors capacity in the new period" published recently by the Central Institute for Economic Management (CIEM) shows an increasing number of private enterprises in the list of the top 500 largest enterprises in Vietnam in the past five years.

Six private corporations are included in the list of large groups in Asia and the world. In addition, the private sector contributes up to 40% of the countrys GDP and creates millions of jobs. It has an increasingly important position of in the Vietnamese economy.

In 2015-2020, the number of newly established private enterprises increased steadily every year, from about 70,000/year on average in the period of 2006-2014, to 120,000 in the period of 2015-2020. In 2011, there were about 325,000 private enterprises in Vietnam and in 2019, the figure was 647,000.

The scale of production and capital of private enterprises also rose sharply, from VND 6,875 trillion in 2011 to VND 24,024 trillion in 2019, nearly 3.5 times higher.

However, the report pointed out many limitations of the private sector. Private enterprises are mainly small and micro-sized, with low technology and management level, limited ability to link and cooperate in business, and weak ability to participate in regional and global value chains, and low effectiveness. The contribution of the private sector is not really commensurate with the quantity and scale and has not properly reflected the potential.

Lack of a "launch pad"

Economic experts say that for over 30 years of development, Vietnam has not yet built a strong team of private enterprises which play the role of a "launch pad" for the country's economic development.

In 2016, the Vietnamese Government issued Resolution 35/NQ-CP on supporting and developing businesses, which set the target of having one million enterprises, including large-scale enterprises with strong resources and the private sector to contribute 49% of the countrys GDP by 2020. However, both goals were not observed.

In the world, strong economies all rely on the leading role of large private groups. South Korea, once from a poor country, has become a powerful economy thanks to chaebols such as Samsung, Hyundai, Posco, LG, and SK. In the US, the 500 largest groups have total revenue of about 13 trillion USD per year, accounting for more than two-thirds of the country's GDP. In Japan, large corporations such as Toyota, Mitsubishi, Panasonic, etc. have made great contributions to this country over the past 50 years.

In Vietnam, there are more than 700,000 private enterprises at present, but 96% of them are small and micro firms. The average equity of a small private enterprise in Vietnam in 2019, before the Covid-19 pandemic, was 54,000 USD, with about 10 employees.

Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung said that to achieve the goal of becoming a developed country by 2045, Vietnam must rely on the private sector. Vietnam has only ten years left to do this, because by 2030, Vietnam will enter the period of an aging population.

I am very impatient because private enterprises are not willing to grow. Many policies to develop the private sector have been issued but they have not been effective. How to stimulate small businesses to grow, to stimulate people to invest capital in doing business, instead of buying gold to store or invest in real estate," said Minister Dung.

Vu Tien Loc, former Chairman of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), said the Vietnamese economy cannot rely on any other productive force other than the private sector, especially the large private corporations that are changing the face of the country.

Private corporations are the engine of the economy. The development of private enterprises means reducing public debt for the State. This is the army that enriches and brings prosperity to the country. It is a fact that the more open Vietnam is, and the more free trade agreements (FTAs) are signed, the more the foreign-invested sector benefits, not Vietnamese enterprises.

Vietnam should change its policies to promote the development of large private economic groups and consider them as the driving force for development, Loc said.

Vietnam to focus on developing private sector

In early 2021, the Government assigned the Ministry of Planning and Investment to develop a resolution on enterprise development for the period of 2021-2025, with a vision to 2030. This resolution aims to develop 1.3-1.5 million enterprises, including many large enterprises by 2025. Experts said that it is possible to achieve this goal in terms of quantity, but to create many large and powerful private corporations that can compete globally is a hard job.

The problem is that the business environment still has many barriers for private enterprises. Private enterprises said that State-owned (SOEs) and foreign-invested (FDI) enterprises are still given priority. For example, it is very difficult for private firms to have land for production and business, but SOEs and FDI enterprises enjoy many preferential policies on land. It is similar for tax and fee policies. Local governments always favor SOEs and FDI enterprises over private companies.

According to a survey by the VCCI, 39.5% of private enterprises said that local leaders still prioritize attracting foreign investment and SOEs rather than the private sector. Private enterprises always face difficulties in accessing land and capital and disadvantages in terms of inspection, tax, and customs compared to FDI enterprises and SOEs.

In addition, the legal system related to business still has many inconsistent procedures and conditions, causing obstacles for private enterprises. Currently, the trend is to empower ministries, and these agencies impose their own business conditions and administrative procedures, causing complexity and overlapping. This is contrary to the spirit of the Law on Investment and the Enterprises Law in that only the Government and the higher-level bodies set business conditions and administrative procedures.

To improve the capacity of the private sector in Vietnam, the Central Institute for Economic Management proposes supporting enterprises to restore production and minimize the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic; Continue to perfect mechanisms and policies to improve the business investment environment; Promote the application and development of technology, innovation, digital transformation, taking advantage of the achievements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution; and develop policies to promote private enterprises to deeply participate in the value chain, making effective use of new-generation free trade agreements. Strengthen the connection and linkage along the value chain between private enterprises and FDI enterprises; and promote the development of small and medium-sized private enterprises while developing a number of large private economic groups with strong potential and regional and international competitiveness.

Tran Thuy
We are here because other courts ruled against them and they want another bite at the apple, Lopez said earlier this month. They are saying, We want a do-over. If you abate the cases, then they can all go up in a nice, consistent package because we all know this matter is ultimately going to be settled by the Texas Supreme Court anyway.

Assistant Attorney General Will Wassdorf told Menard that McLennan County is the proper venue for the lawsuit because Waco and La Vega schools are violating the mask mandate ban and they are in McLennan County.

The venue to sue Waco and La Vega is not proper in Travis County, Wassdorf said. If we allow the Travis County cases to continue and sit on our laurels until it is over, we will be right back here to establish that Waco and La Vega violated the mask mandate.

Wassdorf said the cases should focus on the fact that the school districts are violating Abbotts emergency order, which he said carries the same weight as law.

Waco ISD Chief of Staff Kyle DeBeer said school officials are pleased with the judges ruling.
Howl-O-Ween Walk

Join Waco Walks on Sunday from 6-8 p.m. for a Slightly Spooky Howl-O-Ween Walk with the Animal Birth Control Clinic. Dogs and costumes are encouraged, but all are welcome. The walk starts at the courthouse annex at Fourth Street and Columbus Avenue and makes a one-mile loop in downtown Waco. Walkers will learn about spooky spots, general mayhem, and improbable lies and legends, with special Howl-O-Ween treats for every pet. For more information visit the Waco Walks Facebook page.

Zombie 5K Run

The Humane Society of Central Texas will host a 5K Zombie Run and 1K Dog Walk of the Dead on Saturday as part of the Finish Line Halloween Festival. The festival is from 3-8:30 p.m. at Brazos Park East, 3516 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and in addition to the run will feature music, games, food, beer, costume contests, and more. To sign up as a runner, walker, or vendor visit humanesocietycentraltexas.org/zombierun The 5K race starts at 4:30 p.m. Registration is $40 until Friday, and $45 the day of the race.

First responder breakfast
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Gov. Gretchen Whitmer raised $3.1 million over three months for her reelection campaign and had $12.6 million on hand a year before the 2022 election, while former Detroit police chief James Craig outraised a field of Republicans vying to challenge her.

The numbers were reported Monday, the quarterly deadline.

The Democratic governor continued to use an exemption to collect more than the individual $7,150 limit because of longshot efforts to recall her from office. The GOP is challenging the strategy in court. The excess funds, including more than $400,000 from the three-month period, seem destined to be returned or transferred to another account like the state Democratic Party's because no recall bid is likely to become active.

Eleven Republicans have formed candidate committees to run against or explore a challenge to Whitmer, whose campaign manager Preston Elliott emphasized her work to boost K-12 funding without a tax hike, to fix the roads and to create auto jobs.
WATERLOO  A former Evansdale man has been sentenced to prison for a hallucinogen-fueled foray in which he hijacked a biodiesel tanker and sped through town before crashing into a house in August 2020.

It is so scary not being able to know why I did what I did. I cant remember. All I know is at the time I was around a lot of bad people, and I was putting myself in harms way a lot, said Dakota David Luck, 26, who has since moved to Wisconsin.

Luck pleaded to first-degree theft, reckless use of an explosive and possession of marijuana for commandeering a semi tanker filled with 7,500 gallons of biodiesel from the Kwik Star/Kwik Trip blending facility on Ridgeway Avenue where he worked.

He sped into town, reaching speeds of up to 60 mph in a 35 mph zone before striking an occupied minivan and beer truck near Ridgeway and Hammond avenues, careening into two parked cars and slamming into a home at 1420 Ridgeway. The resident, sleeping inside, escaped injury.

Luck was trapped inside the wreckage, which leaked the fuel into the storm drain and nearby creek, prompting environmental remediation, according to officials.

Prosecutor Jeremy Westendorf told the court the high-speed journey and collision caused an insane amount of damage and destruction.

Given the amount of harm he did with his criminal conduct, and the behavior he exhibited, it certainly warrants a prison sentence, Westendorf said. This conduct cant be whitewashed.

Defense attorney Nichole Watt said Luck had been taking increasing amounts of LSD before the incident.

He was outside of his mind, Watt said. Its unfortunate this is what it took to get Mr. Luck to wake up and realize there is something else to life than wasting your time with hallucinogens.

Watt had asked the court for a deferred judgment, which would have meant probation and a chance to remove the offense from Lucks record. She noted that Luck had no prior run-ins with the law, has completed substance abuse treatment and found another job.

But Judge Andrea Dryer said despite Lucks otherwise clean record, his actions that morning were so dangerous they warranted a prison sentence.

She said he made decisions to use drugs and to drive while under the influence.

It is just sheer good fortune on your part that a lot of people werent hurt, Dryer said. There are crimes that are so serious and so dangerous to the community that, despite the fact that you dont have a prior record, they want a prison sentence.

He was sentenced to 10 years in prison for the theft charge with a concurrent one year for the reckless use of explosives charge. Also concurrent were 180 days for possession of marijuana and 30 days for reckless driving.

Citations for drug paraphernalia, failure to yield and other minor offenses were dismissed.

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CEDAR FALLS  With continuing concern over the transmission of COVID-19, T.W. Ingham is focused on the safety of Cedar Falls Community Schools students and staff.

The biggest things that Ive talked about with residents is really COVID right now, said the 28-year-old finance manager at Bill Colwell Ford. He is one of six candidates running in the Nov. 2 election for three at-large seats on the Board of Education, which all district voters can cast ballots for.

Ingham said making sure we protect ourselves from COVID by wearing face masks, social distancing, and following other recommendations of scientists and doctors in schools is a high priority. Masking in schools, where not all students have yet had the opportunity to get a vaccine, has been a point of contention reflected in a state law banning mandated face coverings that a judge has ordered not to be enforced while a lawsuit goes forward.

Ingham said he can definitely relate to the feelings of those who want masks to be optional. However, after researching the topic, I still feel its best to vaccinate first, thats our best line of defense. Until the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines no longer require masks due to rate of vaccination, he believes its important to keep wearing them.

Most of the people that Ive talked to have agreed with that viewpoint, he noted.

Still, Ingham said Cedar Falls Schools has done a great job with COVID throughout the pandemic. He believes it was appropriate this fall when the administration, not the board, devised a policy to mandate masks at elementary schools only under certain conditions.

I believe the Cedar Falls school board and the administration have done a good job with that overall, he said, even though it diverges from his personal opinion. I just want to continue that and make sure were doing everything possible to keep students safe.

Regarding the currently unenforced law that bans school mask mandates, I believe the state has overstepped their bounds, he said. I believe it should be up to local school districts, local communities.

Ingham also saw state government overreach in our community through laws signed during the last session that make a tax credit more generous for donating to school tuition organizations, which fund scholarships at private schools, and a change in the charter school law that no longer requires them to be established through the local district while still providing state funding.

I believe its our job, our duty to determine how to use those funds and it should be left to us, he said.

Ingham began considering a run for the board after the racist social media posts of several district students were publicized by activists starting in January. He said students and staff should be comfortable in school regardless of their race, sex, gender orientation, and religious or non-religious affiliations, applauding the increased efforts of the districts equity committee to provide inclusion resources for students.

We need to do everything we can to make our students feel comfortable, and thats a really big part of why I want to run for school board, he said.

The Gladbrook native is married to wife Devin, who is an office specialist in the Cedar Falls Schools information technology department. He attended Marshalltown Community College and Colorado Technical University, earning an associates degree in business. He moved to Cedar Falls 2-1/2 years ago and completed a bachelors degree in psychology from the University of Northern Iowa.

He has worked for the Hudson car dealer for 1-1/2 years and previously held positions in social work, juvenile corrections, and retail and customer service.

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WATERLOO  Waterloo Community Schools is expanding career exploration opportunities for its students with the help of a new software program.

The Board of Education Monday approved a $110,620 contract with Xello to provide an online program for students at all grade levels starting in January and continuing through June 2024.

We are rolling out  have been working on this for a year  a K-12 career development program, Superintendent Jane Lindaman told the board. How the district could track student experiences over the years, though, was the missing piece for me, she said. That will be accomplished through the Xello software application.

It is expected to help students define their goals for the future and make plans to reach them. The district will do a soft launch of the program during second semester and incorporate all students next fall. They will have an online portal that parents can access where information about their experiences will be archived.

The new contract takes the place of and expands upon what the district was doing with Kuder Navigator, a program for grade six through 12 that was terminated in June. Lindaman said that system cost Waterloo Schools about $10,000 to $15,000 annually.

A student career development process was started to meet requirements of a state law. Offerings have expanded over the years, with the new kindergarten though 12th-grade approach the most extensive. Xellos system will track each students exposure to careers, interests, and skills as well as attitudes towards particular careers and experiences with work-based learning.

In some cases, especially for the youngest students, this will be done through a gaming format that puts them into a virtual setting to try out different types of career possibilities.

We have done a ton of research behind this, said Lindaman. More than 80 district staff members were involved in the process of vetting Xello, including all counselors and administrators.

I think its a match made in heaven, she added. Were pretty excited about it, I hope youll approve it.

Board member Endya Johnson said she appreciates the function that will archive information and experiences throughout students education. However, she added, I do want to know, does it put students in a box?

Its not ever going to tell a student what they should do, replied Lindaman. Rather, it gives students ideas that become more specific the older they get.

It really is a childs K-12 experience logged into one system, she noted. They really do help kids think about things, but its pretty student driven.

In other action, the board approved a raise in hourly pay to $12 retroactive to Oct. 16 for substitute paraeducators, clerk typists and food service workers. The food service substitutes previously made $9 an hour while the other temporary workers made an $11 hourly wage. Those substituting in roles of a building head secretary or Education Service Center confidential secretary will also receive additional compensation of $1.35 per hour.

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WATERLOO  Its clear the absentee voting shift that began in the middle of last years pandemic is continuing, despite new state rules shortening the window for that type of voting.

With a week to go before the election, 2,633 absentee ballots had already been cast by mail, at the drop box and at in-person early voting in Black Hawk County, said County Auditor Grant Veeder. Another 800-plus ballots are still outstanding.

That compares with 1,795 total absentee ballots cast in the county in 2019s combined city/school elections, the first year Iowa combined its municipal and school board elections  a nearly 47% increase. In 2017, absentee turnout was 1,435 countywide, and in 2015 it was 1,750.

This is a higher-than-normal absentee turnout, Veeder said Monday.

Its shades of the 2020 presidential election, when those voting absentee also increased dramatically while Election Day voting at polling locations dropped dramatically, a likely function of voters not wishing to expose themselves to COVID-19 at a time when vaccines were not yet available.

If Election Day voting is similarly down next Tuesday, that might be an indication Cedar Valley voters prefer the convenience of absentee voting, or it could mean theyre still worried about catching a virus a third of county residents remain unvaccinated against.

But despite voters increased appetite for absentee voting, new laws passed by the Iowa Legislature already are limiting some would-be voters. A rule that absentee requests must be at the auditors office by 5 p.m. Oct. 18 has had an effect.

As of Monday morning, a week after that deadline, the county auditors office had received 78 absentee ballot requests it was legally unable to fulfill, meaning none of those would-be voters will have an absentee ballot mailed to them. More requests are expected to come in through the mail, election officials said.

County officials will mail each of those voters information on how they may still cast a ballot. Options include voting in person at the Black Hawk County Courthouses second floor until 5 p.m. each day through Friday and until 5 p.m. Monday, or at your polling place on Election Day, Nov. 2, from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m.

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WATERLOO  A Waterloo man has been arrested after sheriffs deputies found a stolen handgun during a traffic stop Monday morning.

A Black Hawk County deputy stopped a Ford Crown Victoria for allegedly running a red light on Ansborough Avenue near the U.S. Highway 218 interchange around 5:20 a.m. Monday.

The deputy found a loaded 9 mm SIG Sauer P320 on the floor behind the passenger seat. Bags of meth and marijuana were also found in the car, along with pipes and a hypodermic needle.

The handgun had been reported stolen in Waterloo.

The driver, 32-year-old Jarvis Len Holmes, of 327 Conger St., was arrested for trafficking stolen weapons, possession of meth, possession of marijuana and carrying weapons.

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OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Meatpacking giant Tyson Foods says more than 96% of its workers have been inoculated against COVID-19 ahead of the companys Nov. 1 deadline for them to do so.

The company based in Springdale, Arkansas, said the number of its 120,000 workers who have been vaccinated has nearly doubled since it announced its mandate on Aug. 3. At that point, only 50% of Tyson workers had been vaccinated.

This is an incredible result  not only for our company, but for your families and our communities across the country,  Tyson President and CEO Donnie King said in a note to employees Tuesday.

The Tyson Fresh Meats facility in Waterloo, which recorded one of the first large-scale COVID-19 outbreaks in the nation, also was consistent with the rate announced today for the company, said Tyson spokesperson Liz Croston.

Tyson, which has long been dealing with worker shortages, said employees who dont get vaccinated before the companys deadline will be fired, but will be welcomed back if they get vaccinated later.

Id also like to say to those who remain unvaccinated  this is your choice, and we respect that choice, King said. If you change your mind and want to rejoin Tyson  let us know. Our doors are open.

Spokesperson Gary Mickelson said very few employees have left the company so far because of the mandate.

The industry was hit hard by the pandemic in the spring of 2020 when the virus tore through meatpacking plants and forced the temporary closure of many of them because so many workers became ill or had to quarantine. The United Food and Commercial Workers Union said at least 132 of its members died from the virus during the outbreaks and another 22,400 were infected or exposed.

King said Tyson saw a significant decline in the number of virus cases in its workforce as more employees got vaccinated.

Tyson remains the only major company in the meatpacking industry to require vaccinations. The other meat giants such as JBS, Cargill and Smithfield Foods, have been relying on efforts to encourage workers to get vaccinated.

The UFCW union praised Tysons progress with vaccinations because the mandate came with an agreement to provide 20 hours of paid sick leave to all the companys employees. The mandate also included exceptions for medical and religious reasons, but it wasnt immediately clear how many of those exceptions Tyson granted.

We urge every company, across this country, to do what is right by their frontline workers and work cooperatively with their unions and employees to help end this pandemic and keep all of Americas essential workers and their families safe, UFCW President Marc Perrone said.

Courier reporter Amie Rivers contributed to this article.

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Today is Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. Let's get caught up.

Here are today's top stories, celebrity birthdays and a look back at this date in history:

TOP STORIES

COVID cases falling, but trouble signs arise as winter looms

Tumbling COVID-19 case counts have some schools around the U.S. considering relaxing their mask rules, but deaths nationally have been ticking up over the past few weeks, some rural hospitals are showing signs of strain, and cold weather is setting in.

The number of new cases nationally has been plummeting since the delta surge peaked in mid-September. The U.S. is averaging about 73,000 new cases per day, dramatically lower than the 173,000 recorded on Sept. 13. And the number of Americans in the hospital with COVID-19 has plummeted by about half to around 47,000 since early September.

Still, there are some troubling indicators, including the onset of cold weather, which sends people indoors, where the virus can more easily spread.

With required mask use reduced in much of the U.S., the University of Washington's influential COVID-19 forecasting model is predicting increasing infections and hospitalizations in November.

Keep scrolling for links to full versions of these top stories and more.

***

'We've got to run'  Idaho mall shooting leaves 2 dead

BOISE, Idaho (AP)  Police say they exchanged gunfire with a suspect during a shooting at a shopping mall in Boise, Idaho, that killed two people and injured four -- including an officer.

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee said at a news conference the shooting was reported about 1:50 p.m. on Monday  as well as a report that one person was shot and down at that time.

When the officers arrived, they spotted someone who matched the description of the suspect.

There was an exchange of gunfire that ensued shortly thereafter, resulting in the officer's injury, as well as the suspect being taken into custody, Lee said. Investigators believe there was only one shooter, and there is no ongoing danger to the public, he said.

***

Record rainfall as storm douses drought-stricken California

SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A powerful storm that swept through California set rainfall records and helped douse wildfires. But it remained to be seen how much of a dent it made in the state's drought.

The system weakened as it moved south but still dropped enough rain Monday evening to cause mudslides that closed roads in the San Bernardino Mountains northeast of Los Angeles.

In the northern part of the state, drenching rains caused widespread flooding and rock slides over the weekend. Strong winds knocked down trees and even toppled two big rigs on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge near San Francisco. Pacific Gas & Electric reported that 380,000 homes and businesses lost power, though most had it back Monday.

***

Click on the links below for full version of today's top stories. Keep scrolling for a look back at this day in history and today's celebrity birthdays:

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IMAGE OF THE DAY

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TODAY IN HISTORY

Today in history: Oct. 26 In 2001, President George W. Bush signed the USA Patriot Act, giving authorities unprecedented ability to search, seize, detain or eavesdrop i

Today in sports history: Oct. 26 In 1990, Wayne Gretzky becomes the NHL first player to reach the 2,000-point plateau. See more sports moments from this date:

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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ...

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African American Heritage Initiative (AAHi)

AAHi Misson

Mission

Provide an opportunity for African American/Black students to explore their African American identity toward an authentic understanding while engaging the student in a journey of self-discovery. We accomplish this through unique DNA testing that allows students to find their country and tribe of origin. AAHi will allow students to explore their cultural roots establishing connections and a sense of belonging. We also partner with the African students who know their country and tribe to learn from them and foster relationships. Finally, we focus on the stolen history of African Americans and uncover those truths that are not in the American history books

2021 AAHI Meetings

AAHi will not be meeting during summer semester, but feel free to contact advisor Kenneth Johnson to get involved.

Fall 2021 - Meetings

Wednesdays from 4-5PM | In person at SC Room 141 | Virtual via Zoom | Email kdjohnson@weber.edu for Zoom access

Contact: African American Heritage Initiative kdjohnson@weber.edu Social Media: Our Facebook Page:

AAHi Leadership

Kenneth D. Johnson - AAHi Advisor kdjohnson@weber.edu Kenneth D. Johnson, Multicultural Retention Counselor with African American Focus (Center of Multicultural Excellence) at Weber State provides an opportunity for all Multicultural students to explore their cultural roots establishing connections and a sense of belonging while being challenged to achieve academically. Developing strong relationships is the foundation of everything he does professionally and personally. He also loves sports, movies, and activities with his beautiful wife and family. Previously, he was the Director of Moore Career College, as the director he provided oversight and direction for the entire college. He received his bachelor's degree from Ashford University and his Masters in Higher Education Administration at Weber State University. Meltia Hickman - AAHi President I am a First-generation and Non-traditional student who has overcome multiple obstacles. My primary focus has been to excel in my classwork and because of that, it has allowed me to become the President of AAHi. I love to meet new people and get to know them. I also love dressing up and looking my best. My ultimate goal is to make a profound impact on Weber State University for African Diaspora students.

AAHi Events

The Reveal Pt. 2: My African Identity

Weber State Universitys African American Heritage Initiative (AAHi) is hosting its inaugural event, The Reveal 2: My African Identity, Nov. 10 from 6-8:30 p.m. in the Shepherd Union Ballrooms. The event is free and open to the public. During the event, 19 African Diaspora students and 6 WSU Faculty & Staff participants will learn their ancestral African origins which includes country and tribe from the results of a DNA test that was performed prior to the event. The event will also initiate a one-year student project to help African Diaspora students understand their ancestry and culture.

Press Release: https://www.weber.edu/WSUToday/102821_DNA_AfricanDiaspora.html

Location: Shepherd Union Ballrooms

Date: Wednesday, November 10th

Time: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM

Contact Name: Kenneth Johnson | Email: kdjohnson@weber.edu | Phone: (801)-626-7751

Agenda:

6:00 PM - 6:30 PM - Food/Social

6:30 PM - 6:35 PM - Ken Johnson - AAHi Advisor

6:35 PM - 6:45 PM - Dr. Brad Mortensen - President of WSU

6:45 PM - 6:55 PM - Dr. Brett Perozzi - VP of Student Affairs

6:55 PM - 7:15 PM - Dr. Gina Paige - CEO of African Ancestry

7:15 PM - 8:00 PM - The Reveal, Dr. Gina Paige

8:00 PM - 8:30 PM - Q & A, Dr. Gina Paige

Student Life

The Reveal (2019) The Reveal (2019)
Little, Brown and Company / Andrew Eccles

En espanol

Katie Courics wonderfully frank new memoir Going There depicts the tension the famous TV journalist has wrestled with throughout her career: resisting  but sometimes embracing  her persistent image as Americas Sweetheart, especially during her years cohosting NBCs Today show, when she wanted to be taken seriously in the realm of hard news. She describes it as a battle between the Katie and Katherine sides of her personality.



Her book makes it clear that, despite her omnipresent smile and morning-show-style affability, Couric, 64, is a fiercely competitive and ambitious journalist  and that it would be hard to survive otherwise in an industry that, as she describes it, runs on schadenfreude, and is rife with backstabbing climbers and executives single-mindedly focused on winning the battle for viewers. (Her descriptions of the wily attempts by bookers for Today and ABCs Good Morning America to steal each others guests are enough to make the memoir worth a read.)

But while Courics certainly not shy about detailing how her hard work led to headline-generating interviews (Sarah Palin, David Duke), not to mention multimillion-dollar network contracts ($15 million annually at CBS, post-Today), shes also honest about her regrets and failures. That includes being truly awful on camera in her early years: While working as an assistant assignment editor at CNN, the company president called young Courics boss, who relayed a message to her: He never wants to see you on air again. Much later, Dan Rather complained that she was dumbing down and tarting up the news at CBS. She also describes her ambivalence and bafflement over her former cohost Matt Lauers sexual assault allegations (shes severed all ties but was clearly deeply fond of him.)

And we learn about her longtime eating disorder, gut-wrenching grief over her husband Jay Monahans illness and death from colon cancer at age 42, subsequent dating life  even Katie Couric gets dumped sometimes!  and finally finding love again with current husband John Molner.

Couric now runs her media company, Katie Couric Media (KCM), with Molner, producing, among other things, a podcast called Next Question With Katie Couric; a daily newsletter, Wake-Up Call; and documentaries. (Sometimes Im Katherine, sometimes Im Katie, she writes. Now my work allows me to be both.)

We spoke with her recently about her memoir, career, thoughts on aging and more (the conversation has been edited for space and clarity).

Why a memoir  and why now

Ive always toyed with the idea of writing a memoir  and I promised my dad that if I ever did, I would write it myself. I think that I was at a stage in my life where there was enough distance from a lot of the things I experienced that I could reflect on them.

There are a lot of stories I didnt have room to tell  interviews and personal experiences I would have liked to have talked about. I thought maybe I needed more than one volume, but my husband said, Who do you think you are, Winston Churchill?

How she got past the challenges in the early years of her career

I dont know, I think I have a lot of pluck. I also think Im a funny mix of insecurity and self-confidence. I looked around and I thought, Well, why couldnt I do what these other people are doing? I just dont have as much experience as they do. I felt like I owed it to myself to try to be better, to try to get more comfortable. I thought I just didnt have some of the more cosmetic and performative aspects of the job down, so all I needed to get better at was the window dressing.

Why it was sometimes hard to be taken seriously

Were so judged by our packaging. I was thinking about that when I wrote about my smile, my personality: Its really easy to put someone in a box and stereotype them and not appreciate the complexities of who they are, or the range of who they are. And then you couple that with the rampant sexism that exists in our society I think that creates an expectation of what a woman is supposed to be, and how shes supposed to act, and what she can achieve. So I think with all of those things, I had to always work against type.

Let me rephrase that: There were some moments when I had to work against type, and others where the big personality  the fun, playful side of me  was really helpful to me for certain aspects of my job.

How she remembered so many details from the past

When I started my job on the Today show, the first thing [film critic] Gene Shalit said was that I should keep a diary. I was like, Thats a great idea. And then of course, I never did. But I do have a good memory. I really do. I can put myself back at a place in time, and really remember how it felt. And Im a terrible pack rat, so I kept speeches, I kept so many letters Then I talked to friends and coworkers who could help me remember. Like I asked, What did we do during that Tom Cruise interview? and my producer reminded me, We ordered sushi and there were bees everywhere And I said, Oh, yeah, I do remember that So with all those things combined, I was able to piece together a lot of the situations I described in the book.
The reunion: The Doobie Brothers (fall 2021, summer 2022)

The backstory: The Doobie Brothers had a big year planned for 2020  induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and their 50th anniversary tour, with the return of soulful front man Michael McDonald marking the first string of concerts in which Tom Johnston, Pat Simmons, John McFee and McDonald performed together in 25 years. But then came COVID-19, which postponed the tour for more than a year, and when they finally got rolling in 2021, the virus hit the band, as well. But October saw the Doobies release their 15th album, Liberte (sans McDonald). Now its full steam ahead for 2022, beginning in June. Having McDonald back on the shows, says singer-guitarist and founding member Johnston, is the cherry on top of this whole tour because it adds an aspect of musical style that we dont normally even attempt to do  I think its going to be a real thrill for people to come see.

What to expect: Michael McDonald is back!

Why we love them: Hippies on blue-eyed soul

Book it: 50th Anniversary tour
Even though genetic testing is easy, widely available and less expensive than it used to be, experts say many good candidates for testing havent been screened.

As a society, what we know is that were not maximizing the number of people getting tested who would benefit from it, says Tuya Pal, M.D., a clinical geneticist and associate director for cancer health disparities at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Right now, 25 years after the discovery of BRCA1 and 2, we think maybe 20 percent of adults with BRCA1 and 2 have been identified. That means there are still a lot of unidentified high-risk people.

Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among women in the United States (after skin cancer) and the second leading cause of cancer deaths. In 2021, about 281,550 new cases of invasive breast cancer will be diagnosed in women, according to the American Cancer Society.

Who should get tested?

Not everyone needs to be tested. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends putting together your family health history of breast and ovarian cancer and then talking to your doctor to determine whether youre at increased risk and if it makes sense to get tested.

Most experts agree you should be tested if:

You have been diagnosed with ovarian, pancreatic or breast cancer at a younger age (especially if its triple-negative breast cancer)

You are a man who has been diagnosed with breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, or high-grade or metastatic prostate cancer

You have been diagnosed with two or more types of cancer (including a second breast cancer)

You are of Ashkenazi Jewish descent. About 1 in 40 people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent in the U.S. have BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, compared with about 1 in 400 women in the general population

You have a family history of a known inherited mutation

You have a family history of breast cancer at a younger age, more than one family member on the same side with breast cancer, or breast cancer in a male family member

You have a close family member with a history of ovarian, pancreatic or metastatic prostate cancer

If you dont fit into one those scenarios, you should still consider talking to a genetic counselor, because there are many other factors that can increase risk, says Joy Larsen Haidle, a genetic counselor and the cancer expert for the National Society of Genetic Counselors.

For example, people often assume you need to have multiple cases of breast cancer in your family to qualify for testing, but other cancers  including pancreatic, prostate, ovarian and colon cancer  can be caused by breast cancer gene variants. Once you pull those together, Larsen Haidle says, all of a sudden things that felt disconnected to the average person are connected under one cause.

Other candidates for testing include women who were previously treated for breast, ovarian, fallopian tube or peritoneal cancer  even if they are now cancer-free. Testing can tell them if they are at increased risk for a second cancer and also if their relatives are at risk, Larsen Haidle says.

How testing can help if youve already been diagnosed

If youve been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, your doctor may recommend genetic testing depending upon your age at diagnosis, your family history, what type of breast cancer you have and other factors.

However, some organizations, including the American Society of Breast Surgeons, say testing should be made available to all women after a breast cancer diagnosis  regardless of family history and cancer subtype  and a growing number of physicians are offering patients the choice. The genetic testing would be in addition to biopsy results that reveal which type of cancer you have or a tumor-profiling test that looks for specific mutations in tumor cells.

Genetic testing can help you and your health care provider make decisions about treatment. If you need chemotherapy, for example, your test results can help determine which specific drugs the tumor is most likely to respond to. And women with some gene mutations can benefit from a new type of medication called PARP inhibitors. Personalized medicine  this is really what were moving towards, Larsen Haidle says.

A positive test result may also influence a womans decision about surgery. 

Take Ellen Rostker, 59, of Ann Arbor, Michigan. She was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer in her left breast in late 2020. Both her oncologist and her surgeon recommended genetic testing before her surgery.

After the test came back positive for an inherited mutation, Rostker decided to have a double mastectomy rather than a lumpectomy as a strategy to help prevent cancer recurrence. She also underwent six rounds of chemotherapy and is now cancer-free.

Im so glad I had the testing because it made my surgery decision so much easier, Rostker says. 
How to choose a cruise

While travelers may see many of the same products across the bigger markets, each also has its own history and unique style of Christmas ornaments and arts and crafts. In Germany, for instance, youll find more wood crafts such as hand-carved nutcrackers, while in Austria youll see more glass ornaments and snow globes, which were invented there.

Everything has to be locally made... Thats one thing I loved, says Beard, who collects nativity sets. Theres no telling how many I bought, she adds.

Beard also loaded up on chocolate and Christmas ornaments that she gave as gifts to her grandchildren and friends. Most of the items were inexpensive. I spent $2 to $5 on the ornaments, and just $5 to $10 on most of the nativity sets. You can get good bargains on things you dont see everywhere, she notes, though some items are very expensive.

Visiting the markets isnt just about shopping, however. Some cruisers are content just browsing through them and enjoying the merry atmosphere.

What attracted me was the community, says Elowitt. They set up all these booths and decorate them and all the local people come, and they have music. We didnt buy the products. We just listened to the music and walked around and took pictures.

Another draw is the food, with each market offering its country's tasty specialties. Almost all of them also serve hot mulled wine, or Gluhwein, in colorful collectible mugs unique to each market and typically made of ceramic, clay or glass. You get a refund on the deposit you pay for a mug if you return it to a vendor, or you can bring it home as a souvenir, which many people do. I brought back every mug from every Gluhwein I drank, says Beard. I love to use them at Christmas when friends come over. It brings back so many good memories.

What to expect at markets in different countries 

Austria

Austrias markets are often described as the most romantic. They're often located outside some of the countrys most historic buildings and stately palaces, such as Viennas imperial Schonbrunn Palace. The Salzburg market, located on Festungsberg mountain at the foot of the Hohensalzburg fortress, overlooks the city; and the Krems market takes place right in the center of town. Advent concerts featuring choirs and brass bands add to the markets ambience.

What to buy: Blown glass and snow globes are especially prevalent. Youll also find candles, pottery, wood carvings and other items made by local artisans.

Foods to try: Krapfen, a yeast dough pastry filled with jam or sauerkraut.

Germany

Markets in Cologne and Nuremberg rank among the most popular ones on river-cruise routes in Germany. Cologne is known for its themed markets, including the Market of Angels and Santa Claus Village. Heinzels Wintermarchen, the citys largest market, delights with an added feature: an ice-skating rink. Nuremberg hosts one of the countrys largest and most famous markets, set in the center of Old Town.

What to buy: Hand-carved wooden nativity scenes and nussknackers (nutcrackers), and Zwetschgenmannles (figurines made from decorated dried plums).

Foods to try: The bratwurst, of course, but also Lebkuchen gingerbread cakes, potato cakes and candied almonds. Do sample the Eierpunsch, an egg-based drink similar to eggnog made with wine and brandy or rum and served warm.

Hungary

Many people consider Budapest, the only Hungarian city where the holiday cruises stop, home to Europes most beautiful Christmas markets. The biggest, in Vorosmarty Square in the heart of the city, runs longer than many, starting in early November and ending on Jan. 1, rather than on Christmas Eve or a day or two before. Its free daily concerts featuring a wide range of music, including Hungarian folk music, are an added plus.

What to buy: Beaded bracelets, embroidered ornaments and gloves, fragrant dried spices and sheepskin hats.

Foods to try: Goulash, kolbasz (hot dogs), strudel and cabbage rolls stuffed with ground beef, ground pork and rice.


September Quarterly Activities Report

Perth, Oct 26, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - The Tumas Project Definitive Feasibility Study (DFS) is progressing well, with continued economic evaluation to determine the viability of mining the calcrete-associated uranium deposits located within the Tumas palaeochannel (Tumas Project or Tumas) in the Deep Yellow Limited ( ASX:DYL ) ( FRA:JMI ) ( OTCMKTS:DYLLF ) 100% owned Reptile Project (EPLs 3496 and 3497), located in Namibia.A Mining Licence Application was lodged for the Tumas Project on 21 July 2021, accepted as MLA 237.The DFS is targeting a minimum 20-year Life of Mine (LOM) at an annual production rate of 3Mlb pa. A resource upgrade drilling program commenced in February 2021, following completion of the Tumas Pre-Feasibility Study (PFS). The program focused on converting a large part of the Inferred Mineral Resources at Tumas 3 and Tumas 1 East into the Indicated Resource category (JORC, 2012) and was successfully completed on 12 August 2021.An updated Mineral Resource Estimation (MRE) was completed on the Tumas 1&2, 3 and 1 East orebodies, increasing the overall Indicated and Measured Mineral Resource base at a 100ppm eU3O8. cut-off from 52.6Mlb to a total of 98.7Mlb eU3O8.Deep Yellow announced a significant milestone on 5 October 2021, completing a mining study using the economic parameters as determined in the PFS and successfully delivering a 121% increase to the previous Ore Reserve Estimate (ORE).The impressive increase in the ORE allows a LOM of greater than 20 years in the DFS involving the Tumas 1&2, 3 and 1 East orebodies.Significant potential remains to further expand the operating life of the Tumas Project outside the current scope of the DFS, once those prospective areas that remain untested along the Tumas palaeochannel system have been explored in more detail.On 21 July 2021, in support of the Tumas Project DFS, a Mining Licence Application (MLA) was lodged with the Namibian Ministry of Mines and Energy (MME). MLA 237 was registered by Reptile Uranium Namibia (Pty) Ltd (RUN), a wholly owned subsidiary of Deep Yellow.The DFS work program to date and for the remainder of 2021 is focussed on completion of the optimisation and trade-off studies recommended in the PFS, additional metallurgical test work and any further work required as part of the MLA or Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) programs.The DFS remains on track for completion in the December quarter 2022. The Company is focused on progressing Tumas towards a development decision, in preparation for the anticipated uranium price increase expected around this time.To view the full Quarterly Report, please visit:About Deep Yellow Limited

Deep Yellow Limited (ASX:DYL) (OTCMKTS:DYLLF) (Namibian Stock Exchange:DYL) is a differentiated, advanced uranium exploration company, in predevelopment phase, implementing a contrarian strategy to grow shareholder wealth. This strategy is founded upon growing the existing uranium resources across the Company's uranium projects in Namibia and the pursuit of accretive, counter-cyclical acquisitions to build a global, geographically diverse asset portfolio. A PFS has recently been completed on its Tumas Project in Namibia and a DFS commenced February 2021. The Company's cornerstone suite of projects in Namibia is situated within a top-ranked African mining destination in a jurisdiction that has a long, well-regarded history of safely and effectively developing and regulating its considerable uranium mining industry.


Quarterly Activities Report

Sydney, Oct 26, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - DroneShield Limited ( ASX:DRO ) ( FRA:DRH ) ( OTCMKTS:DRSHF ) is pleased to release its business update and Appendix 4C for the three-month period ended 30 September 2021.Highlights- 3Q21 customer receipts up 800% on 3Q20, at $1.7 million.- Total cash receipts for the quarter of $2.8m, including $1.1m of grants received.- Jan-Sep 2021 total cash receipts up 400% on Jan-Sep 2020, at $12.2 million.- Multiple first time sales with Government end customers in the US, Europe and Brazil, as well as repeat sales across US, UK, Australia and South-East Asia.- While defence and Government agencies account for majority of sales, other initial deployments included a prison, an airport, and an Oil & Gas facility.- Bank balance as at 30 September 2021 at $12.1 million, with monthly gross outflows (before revenues) of approximately $1 million/month.To view the full Quarterly Report, please visit: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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September 2021 Quarterly Activities Report

Melbourne, Oct 26, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Cohiba Minerals Limited (( ASX:CHK ) provides below an update in relation to the exploration activities carried out during the September 2021 quarter.Highlights- Horse Well Hole HWDD_05 was completed to a final length of 1,417.46m.- To further investigate encouraging signs in HWDD05 a wedge hole (HWDD05-W1) is being drilled off HWDD05 to further test the target area.- Sites were prepared for the drilling of two exploration holes at Pernatty C immediately following completion of HWDD05-W1- Farm-In Agreement was signed with Tigers Dominion Group Pty Ltd to earn up to a 51% interest in a highly strategic IOCG target area in the Gawler Craton- An Exploration Program for Environment Protection and Rehabilitation (EPEPR) was completed for pending campaign of 12 new drill holes at Horse Well for up to 16,800m of drilling.- IOCG experts continued with a major investigation of the drill core comprising detailed mineralogical, petrological and geochemical studies.- Strong cash balance of ~$6m at 30 September 2021 to fund a material drilling campaign in coming Quarters at both Horse Well and Pernatty C- All tenements (SA, WA and Qld) maintained in good standing.- The Mining Lease application over the Pyramid Lake gypsum project (WA) was recommenced after a delay due to a change in application conditions.- Full Work Health and Safety (WHS) documentation completed to ensure compliance.To view the full Quarterly Report, please visit:About Cohiba Minerals Limited

Cohiba Minerals Limited (ASX:CHK) is listed on the Australian Securities Exchange with the primary focus of investing in the resource sector through direct tenement acquisition, joint ventures, farm in arrangements and new project generation. The shares of the company trade under the ticker symbol CHK.

The Company recently acquired 100% of the shares in Charge Lithium Pty Ltd, which holds exploration licences in Western Australia.


Second Drill Rig Starts at Morning Star Gold Mine

Ballarat, Oct 26, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - White Rock Minerals Limited ( ASX:WRM ) ( OTCMKTS:WRMCF ) is pleased to announce the start of surface diamond drilling to test multiple mineralised quartz reefs within the Dickenson South target area at the underground Morning Star gold mine.Key Highlights- A 3,000 metre diamond drill program from surface has commenced at the Morning Star gold mine to test the 100 metre strike extent of quartz reefs within the host dyke immediately south of historic stoping on the Dickenson and Shamrock Reefs. There are now two diamond drill rigs at the mine.- Analysis of historic mining and exploration has identified several targets within 200 metres of surface at the underground Morning Star gold mine, part of the Company's Woods Point Gold Project in Victoria.- The Dickenson South target contains the Dickenson, Shamrock, Exhibition and Stacpoole Reefs, all of which contain high grade gold mineralisation along strike to the north.- The Dickenson South target is only sparsely drill tested with significant historic drill hole intersections at the southern end of the host dyke including:o 2.6 metres at 16.9g/t gold including 0.3 metres at 132.7g/t (MS364)o 0.8 metres at 13.2g/t gold including 0.3 metres at 33.4g/t (20MS01)- Quartz reef face sampling along the 4-level drive in the vicinity of historic stoping of the Dickenson Reef, close to the main shaft. Previously returned assay results include:o 0.6 metres at 3,140g/t goldo 0.5 metres at 127g/t goldo 0.5 metres at 3.8g/t goldo 0.6 metres at 2.3g/t goldThis is the second diamond drill rig to commence testing the high-grade gold potential at the Company's recently acquired Morning Star gold mine. The first drill rig commenced earlier this month, testing an under-explored 200 metre zone between 10-level and 14-level, referred to as the Gap Zone (Figure 1*).Diamond drill contractor Deepcore Australia Pty Ltd has mobilised a track mounted surface drill rig (Photo 1*) that is currently drilling the first hole of Ring 1 at the Dickenson South gold target at the Morning Star gold mine (Figure 2*).White Rock's primary objective at the Morning Star gold mine is to identify and drill areas of the dyke that have the potential to host multiple high-grade gold quartz reefs. Utilising existing development infrastructure will support a low capital restart of production from multiple reef locations. The Dickenson South target area is one such primary target in the mine due to its size, multiple high-grade gold bearing reef potential and proximity to surface and existing infrastructure (Figure 2*).Further target selection along strike to the north is underway with plans to continue drilling from surface before remobilising the drill rig onto regional exploration targets during the coming summer months.Dickenson South Drill ProgramThe Dickenson South target is only sparsely drill tested with significant historic drill hole intersections1 at the southern end of the host dyke including:o 2.6 metres at 16.9g/t gold including 0.3 metres at 132.7g/t (MS364)o 0.8 metres at 13.2g/t gold including 0.3 metres at 33.4g/t (20MS01)Quartz reef face sampling along the 4-level drive in the vicinity of historic stoping of the Dickenson Reef, close to the main shaft. Previously returned assay results include:o 0.6 metres at 3,140g/t goldo 0.5 metres at 127g/t goldo 0.5 metres at 3.8g/t goldo 0.6 metres at 2.3g/t goldA first pass drill program totalling 3,000 metres in 16 drill holes has been planned to provide systematic coverage across the Dickenson South gold target, with 3 drill hole rings on sections spaced 20 to 40 metres apart.Each ring has 5 to 6 drill holes planned to test from surface through multiple known high-grade gold quartz reefs including Cherry, Age of Progress, Stacpoole, Exhibition, Shamrock and Dickenson, prior to terminating around 5-Level where the Whitelaw Reef was extensively mined during the 1920's (65,421 tonnes @ 31.2g/t gold for 65,600 ounces). Drill hole toe spacing (the distance between the bottom of each hole in each ring) is nominally 20 metres (Figure 3*).The first pass drillhole spacing is sufficient to identify quartz reef structure geometry, that in conjunction with gold grade, is key to defining the most attractive individual quartz reef positions within the dyke for more detailed drilling before any development decisions are reached.*To view tables and figures, please visit:About White Rock Minerals Ltd

White Rock Minerals Ltd (ASX:WRM) (OTCMKTS:WRMCF) is a diversified explorer and near-stage producer, headquartered in Ballarat, Victoria. The Company's flagship exploration project is Red Mountain in central Alaska. At Red Mountain, there are already two high grade zinc - silver - gold - lead VMS deposits, with an Inferred Mineral Resource of 9.1 million tonnes @ 609g/t AgEq / 13% ZnEq. The Company is also exploring its recently discovered large intrusion related gold anomaly at Last Chance, also located in the Tintina gold belt of Alaska, home to multi-million gold ounce deposits like Pogo, Fort Knox and the Donlin Project. The Company also has the Mt Carrington project, located near Drake, in Northern NSW, which is a near-production precious metals asset with a resource of 341,000 ounces of gold and 23.2 million ounces of silver on an approved mining lease, and with a Gold First PFS and JORC Reserve.


Horizon and Metal Hawk Execute Nickel Rights Agreement

Perth, Oct 26, 2021 AEST (ABN Newswire) - Horizon Minerals Limited ( ASX:HRZ ) is pleased to advise that the formal option agreement covering the nickel rights on 12 tenements adjacent to the Company's Cannon gold project area ("Tenements") has been executed.As announced to the ASX on 29 July 2021, Horizon agreed to grant Metal Hawk Limited ( ASX:MHK ) an option to acquire the nickel rights relating to the Tenements and thereby complement and consolidate its new Berehaven nickel project.The option granted under the formal agreement relates to nickel rights over 12 prospecting and exploration licences covering an area of approximately 61km2 and provides for the following:- The issue of 1,500,000 shares in MHK to Horizon on the grant of the option and a further 3,000,000 shares in MHK on exercise of the option within the 18 month option period- If MHK exercises the option then the 3,000,000 MHK shares to be issued to Horizon will be subject to escrow for 180 days- MHK to have a licence to explore for nickel minerals on the Tenements during the option period and must meet annual expenditure commitments and assay all drill samples for gold- If MHK exercises the option it will have the exclusive right to explore for, mine, process and sell nickel and associated minerals within a nickel sulphide system, with gold and all other mineral rights retained by HorizonCommenting on the Nickel rights divestment, Managing Director Jon Price said,"Horizon's core focus remains firmly set on developing a stand-alone gold project in the Kalgoorlie and Coolgardie regions and the grant of the nickel rights option to Metal Hawk supports this objective while unlocking value and allowing Horizon to retain exposure to both the Berehaven nickel project and Metal Hawk's current projects as a Metal Hawk shareholder.""The strong technical team at Metal Hawk have done an excellent job with the new Berehaven nickel sulphide discovery and we look forward to further success as we continue growing our gold business."About Horizon Minerals Limited

Horizon Minerals Limited (ASX:HRZ) is a gold exploration and mining company focussed on the Kalgoorlie and Menzies areas of Western Australia which are host to some of Australia's richest gold deposits. The Company is developing a mining pipeline of projects to generate cash and self-fund aggressive exploration, mine developments and further acquisitions. The Teal gold mine has been recently completed.

Horizon is aiming to significantly grow its JORC-Compliant Mineral Resources, complete definitive feasibility studies on core high grade open cut and underground projects and build a sustainable development pipeline.

Horizon has a number of joint ventures in place across multiple commodities and regions of Australia providing exposure to Vanadium, Copper, PGE's, Gold and Nickel/Cobalt. Our quality joint venture partners are earning in to our project areas by spending over $20 million over 5 years enabling focus on the gold business while maintaining upside leverage.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

When he was a kid, Danny McNair used to spend a month of every summer with his family in a cabin in Taos. Its where his dad taught him a love of fishing.

When he started dating Kay, she went with the family, and the couple fell in love with the charms of northern New Mexico. That was more than 50 years ago.

Earlier this year, after Danny retired from his landscaping business in December, the McNairs decided it was time to leave their home in Houston and move to Taos.

They were excited to nab a three-bedroom home being built on more than an acre in a mountainous subdivision, although Danny worried it wouldnt have enough parking for all their family and friends who would come visit.

But in late summer, still living in a casita in town, they fell ill with COVID-19.

Neither had been vaccinated because, Kay said, Danny had fallen under the sway of a holistic doctor who advised against it.

Danny died of the virus after 17 days in the hospital. It was Sept. 11  his 71st birthday.

I asked Danny when he was in the hospital  when he was still able to speak  I said, Do you regret not taking the vaccine?  Kay said. He said, Y eah. 

She said now that shes recovered, she plans to get vaccinated.

Danny  in all modesty the best landscape designer in Houston  had his work featured in a magazine and had scores of devoted clients who have been reaching out to Kay since his death. Describing her husband as an artist and a true Texas gentleman, Kay said he was always nice to everybody.

I kind of gauge people by how they treat, like, wait staff and stuff like that, Kay said. You know, the waiter or waitress was a friend before the evening was over, because he was just so interested in their lives and aspirations and all that. He was one of the good guys, really good guys.

She said he suffered from fibromyalgia and had a hard time finding a doctor who would treat him and take the illness seriously. Then, about 20 years ago, he met a Houston area doctor who conducts holistic nutrition seminars across the country on a wide variety of radical intervention nutrition topics.

The doctors treatments seemed to work, and Kay said Danny put this guy up there on the pedestal, thought he hung the moon and could qualify for sainthood.

But she called him Dannys voodoo doctor, recounting how her husband was spending a thousand dollars a month on supplements.

When the pandemic began, she said, the doctor told them they didnt need to be vaccinated and should instead get treatments and immunity-boosting pills from him. She said they made sure to wear masks, especially when required in New Mexico, and were happy to visit with family members outside and at a distance.

In August, Kay came down with COVID  an experience she said mirrored the flu. Then, Danny got it.

He tried to reach the doctor, hoping for the supplements hed been told would cure him.

He finally got the cure the night before I ended up taking him to the urgent care in Taos, Kay said. He only got one dose of it, and it was far too late  his lungs were already too compromised to respond to anything. They were full of COVID; they looked white.

She said she now thinks the doctor should have recommended that Danny be vaccinated, given his underlying conditions of high blood pressure, an abnormal heartbeat and years of a persistent cough.

The second line of Dannys obituary says: He put his faith in a holistic practitioner in Houston that he had followed for years who advised Danny against taking the vaccine.

Kay said she wanted to be honest about what happened and she felt like the elephant in the room was going to be the question of whether he was vaccinated.

I didnt want his death to be in vain, Kay said. I didnt want people to think he was stupid for not taking it. I wanted them to know that he put his faith in that guy, and that was, you know, the whole reason why he did not take the vaccine.

When an artist planted more than 600,000 white flags on the National Mall in honor of those lost to COVID-19, Kay submitted Dannys name to be included. Now shes alone unpacking the couples belongings in their new house. Watching the first snow made her tear up, remembering how excited they were to see the change of seasons in Taos.

I guess its almost good that we didnt live here together, because I dont have memories of him in this house, Kay said. But yeah  theres a lot of times, I want to tell him something.
AUSTIN, Texas  Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday signed redrawn voting maps that pave a safer path for the GOPs slipping majority, leaving opponents hoping courts will block the newly gerrymandered districts before they can be used in the 2022 elections.

Abbott signed the maps Monday, according to a spokeswoman for the governor. The governors office did not make an announcement.

Civil rights groups have already filed federal lawsuits that accuse GOP mapmakers of disenfranchising Hispanic and Black residents who are driving the states rapid growth. Texas added 4 million new residents since 2010, but under the new U.S. House maps, Republicans added no new districts where Latinos hold a majority.

The new maps end a highly charged year over voting rights in Texas, where Democrats this summer left the state to begin a 38-day holdout in protest of a sweeping elections overhaul.

The only time that communities of color can get justice is going to the courthouse, Democratic state Rep. Rafael Anchia said before the final vote on the maps in the Texas House last week.

The newly signed maps mark an end to the states once-in-a-decade redistricting process in which lawmakers decide how Texas nearly 30 million residents are sorted into political districts and who is elected to represent them. Texas was the only state awarded two additional congressional seats in the 2020 census, increasing the states already outsize political clout.

The states Mexican American Legislative Caucus, who are mostly Democrats, are seeking documents over who had a hand in the drawing of the maps. The Mexican American Legal Defense Fund, along with other minority and voting advocacy groups, have also filed a separate lawsuit challenging the maps in a federal court.

According to Census figures, more than 9 of 10 new Texans in the last decade were people of color.

Texas Republicans have defended the maps, saying race was not taken into account, except for when preserving equal representation. Republican state Sen. Joan Huffman, who authored the maps and leads the Senate Redistricting Committee, told fellow lawmakers that they were drawn blind to race. She also said they were scrutinized by a legal team for violations of the Voting Rights Act.

Texas has had to defend redrawn district lines in court since the Voting Rights Act took effect, but this is the first time since a U.S. Supreme Court ruling said Texas and other states with a history of racial discrimination no longer need to have the Justice Department scrutinize the maps before they are approved.

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Acacia Coronado is a corps member for the Associated Press/Report for America Statehouse News Initiative. Report for America is a nonprofit national service program that places journalists in local newsrooms to report on undercovered issues.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

For the past six months, Gloria Dominguez has read obituary after obituary on Sundays; those who passed away suddenly, died quietly, went off to visit Jesus, crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

Nobody ever says they died of COVID,  she said. I think that has a lot to do with why a lot of people dont think its real, because they dont see those faces in front of them.

So, when it was time to write the obituary for her brother, Anselmo Sam Gutierrez, Dominguez wrote the cause: COVID-19. The 72-year-old  a father and grandfather of six  was unvaccinated.

Thats what hurts the most, is he did not have to die, I wish people would open their eyes and see that this is not a game, this is not a political statement, this isnt a power trip or anything. Its a damn virus that kills people. Cant put it any other way, she said.

Dominguez said her brother was not against the vaccine and understood the risks of the virus. But, he thought he was invincible due to living in the small New Mexico town of La Jara, where his closest neighbor was a mile away.

The family tried their best.

We all begged him and pleaded with him, yelled at him and threatened him  he just said, No, not going to do it. Im OK up here. Theres nobody here. So that was his choice, and it was the wrong one, Dominguez said.

Weeks before Gutierrez became ill, she yelled at him to change his mind. A few days later, remorseful, she apologized.

He says, Dont worry about it, everybody gives me a hard time. We mended our little bridge there and that was the last time I talked to him, Dominguez said.

She said the family believed Gutierrez caught the virus at a funeral in August, the only gathering he went to. Gutierrez became sick soon after and was put on a ventilator within days.

You latch on to every piece of good news, she said.  Somewhere deep down, you keep thinking  hes not going to make it. But, then you say, no, everything sounds good. Hes got to make it. 

Dominguez said a call at 5 a.m. on Sept. 18 woke her up. Her brother, her closest sibling out of six, was gone.

He was really a kind, lovable person. Hed give these hugs that you just dont forget. I never had anybody hug me the way he did, Dominguez said, her voice choking up.

They were born a year apart after their father returned from service in World War II. She said their mother died when they were young and the siblings were raised at the family ranch in La Jara.

Gutierrez graduated from Cuba High School and was drafted by the Army during the Vietnam War. Instead, she said, he chose to join the Air Force where he was based in Thailand and served for eight years.

Dominguez said her brother went on to join the New Mexico Air National Guard, known as the TACOS, and ran a jewelry manufacturing company in Albuquerque. She said he eventually joined the family business of raising cattle and moved to the ranch in La Jara.

Dominguez said her brother would visit her in Albuquerque at least several times a year and they would talk once a week.

He would go into these long, long stories about all the things that he was working on and, after a while, I would go Yeah, yeah, yeah, I gotta go,  Dominguez said with a chuckle. But, then you wish, now, I wish, God, I wish I (had) listened to him for hours. You know?

She said her brother was a wonderful father and grandfather, with two sons and six grandchildren. He was living with a longtime partner when he died.

His sons are absolutely devastated  his partner, she is absolutely devastated. She calls me every single day and says I dont know how Im going to get by without him  I keep looking for him, I call for him,  Dominguez said.

She said her brother had a magnetic personality and made literally hundreds of friends throughout his life. Even at the age of 72, he was like a child who always smiled and had a great sense of humor.

He was real ticklish, and I would grab his neck and he would giggle. I would give him a hard time about being that old and giggling, Dominguez said.

She said she was most impressed by her brothers creativity, driven by an unstoppable curiosity and great imagination. His constant hobbying left him with perpetually scratchy hands he would tease her with.

He would make things, he would mold things, and he would carve things and paint them, Dominguez said. Hed walk in your house and see something new, and hed say, Whered you get that? How does it work?  Before you know it, he was taking things apart and putting them back together again.

She said when her brother moved onto the family ranch, he set to work building lakes on the property. Then, he made waterfalls from one to the other and filled them with fish.

Dominguez said they were so peaceful to sit at. His most recent project, she said, was pulling gold from plain, old rocks.

He was really something else.  You just marveled at what he did, she said. Dominguez said she will miss the magic he made. The tight hugs and scratchy hands. And, of course, she will miss that giggle.

She hopes his obituary and his story can stop others from this hurt.

I thought, maybe, somebody will read this notice about a really, really wonderful person and say, Wait a minute, how can I put my family through that? If just one person read that and said, Im going to go get vaccinated because I cannot put my family through that kind of hurt and pain,  she said, growing emotional. You think if only hed gotten vaccinated, this wouldnt have happened. I dont think people understand that, people do not see that side of the pandemic. What this horrible plague is. You look at the newspaper and you say, Oh, 4,850 or 4,900 something or whatever the number is. Its just the number, theyre not people, theyre not faces.
CHICAGO 

When the discovery of more than two dozen bodies stashed under John Wayne Gacys house near Chicago was making headlines all over the world in the late 1970s, Francis Wayne Alexanders family in New York didnt think much of it. The way they saw it, Alexander had cut off communication with them because he wanted to be left alone.

Then came news this month that for more than 40 years, the man they knew as Wayne was known as Victim #5 in the city where he had gone to start a new life. They were told that DNA tests on the remains of one of the half-dozen unidentified victims of the notorious serial killer were Alexanders.

They just loved him, but they thought that he wanted nothing more to do with them, so thats why there was never a missing persons report, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said at a news conference Monday announcing the latest victim identification.

Though Dart said Alexanders mother and other relatives didnt want to speak publicly about his identification as a Gacy victim, Alexanders sister, Carolyn Sanders, made clear that the family never stopped thinking of what might have become of him.

It is hard, even 45 years later, to know the fate of our beloved Wayne, Sanders wrote in a statement released by Darts office. He was killed at the hands of a vile and evil man. Our hearts are heavy, and our sympathies go out to the other victims families.  We can now lay to rest what happened and move forward by honoring Wayne.

Alexanders remains were among 26 sets that police found in the crawl space under Gacys home just outside the city. Three other victims were found buried on Gacys property and another four people whom Gacy admitted killing were found in waterways south of Chicago.

Eight victims, including Alexander, were buried before police could determine who they were. But Darts office exhumed the eight sets of remains in 2011 and called on anyone who had a male relative disappear in the Chicago area in the 1970s, when Gacy was trolling for victims, to submit DNA.

Within weeks, the sheriffs office announced that it had identified one set of remains as those of William Bundy, a 19-year-old construction worker. In 2017, it identified a second set as those of 16-year-old Jimmy Haakenson, who disappeared after he phoned his mother in Minnesota and told her that he was in Chicago.

Dart and Lt. Jason Moran shared what they knew about Alexander. Born in North Carolina, he and his family moved to New York, where he eventually got married before moving to Chicago in 1975, where he soon divorced.

The last known records of Alexanders life were traffic tickets he received, the last of which came in January 1976. Unlike many victims who were lured to Gacys home with the promise that hed get them construction work, Alexander worked in bars and clubs and there was no record of him working in construction or having made contact with Gacy.

But Alexander did live in an area that Gacy frequented and that was where some Gacys other victims had lived, including Bundy.

Unlike with Bundy and Haakenson, who were identified because family members heeded Darts 2011 call for the public to submit DNA, Alexander was identified through a partnership between the sheriffs office and the DNA Doe Project. The nonprofit compared Victim #5s DNA profile to profiles on a genealogy website to find potential relatives. That led it to Alexanders family, and Alexanders mother and half-brother provided their DNA for comparison.

Between the genetic testing, financial records, post-mortem reports and other information, investigators were able to confirm that the remains were Alexanders. They were able to get a general sense of when he was killed because they knew when the victim who was buried on top of him went missing.

Dart and Moran said the department might be able to use the method used to identify Alexander to identify scores of other people in the county who died and were buried anonymously.

This is one of the newest investigative tools for investigations of missing and unidentified persons, Moran said.

Dart declined to give Alexanders hometown, saying the family hasnt said if it wants to have his remains returned to it or to keep them where theyve been buried for all these years.

In its news release, the sheriffs office thanked the police department in Erwin, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) south of Raleigh, for its help.

The submission of DNA from people who suspected Gacy might have killed their loved ones has helped police solve at least 11 cold cases of homicides that had nothing to do with Gacy, who was executed in 1994. It has also helped families find loved ones who while missing, were alive, including a man in Oregon who had no idea his family was looking for him.

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This story was first published on Oct. 25. It was updated on Oct. 26 to correct that Alexanders family was living in New York by the time Gacy was arrested in 1978, not in North Carolina.
PHOENIX  The Arizona attorney general on Monday announced the indictment of a Pima County man who is accused of voting in the 2020 election despite being a convicted felon who had not had his voting rights restored.

The case is the third filed by the attorney generals office involving a felon who was able to cast a ballot in Pima County last year. Two of the men were registered as Democrats and one as a Republican.

The secretary of states office and county recorders receive notices when someone is convicted of a felony and loses their voting rights. The state oversees the statewide voter database and checks new or updated registrations against the ineligible list. That process results in the automatic cancellation of a voter registration if a hard match of a felony conviction is found.

Its not clear how the three men now charged with illegal voting managed to slip through that system. Its possible the records were never sent to the secretary of state, or that the database somehow missed the new registrations, said Pamela Franklin, the deputy Pima County recorder.

If we have the information, it should show up, Franklin said, saying that she was concerned that the convictions were not caught.

Every new registration we put in gets run against not only the felony database but it gets run again to check for duplicate match, somebody who might be registered in another county, she said. It also runs the check through MVD to see if their drivers license is for foreign nationals.

If that information is not in the state database, they have to rely on the voters affidavit that they sign attesting that they are eligible to vote.

A spokeswoman for the secretary of states office, Sophia Solis, noted that there is no nationwide database of felony records but the state gets regular county and federal conviction reports. She said there may be a time lag for those reports, and that even if a registration is canceled that person could potentially register later.

The burden is on the registrant to affirm that they are eligible to register to vote, she wrote in an email.

The indictment announced Monday involves a Sahuarita man who registered to vote and cast his ballot while an inmate at the Pima County jail. The other two cases involve similar circumstances  inmates awaiting trial in the county jail who cast ballots from jail. In one case, the person registered in 2018 and voted in that years election and in the 2020 elections.

A spokesman for Attorney General Mark Brnovich, Ryan Anderson, said he could not comment on how the three cases came to the attention of the AGs Election Integrity Unit. The unit was created in 2019 to ferret out cases of election fraud or illegal voting.

Inmates held at county jails are given access to voter registration forms. They are also allowed to vote from jail. But if they have previous felony convictions or or later convicted of a felony, their lose their voting rights unless they are restored.

In Pima County, Franklin said that recorders office staff go to the jail to deliver ballots and collect them. Because mail is screened by jail staff, an inmate voter would lose their right to a secret ballot if they mailed ballots back to election officials.

Franklin said in July that the attorney generals office asked about six potential cases of felons voting, although three of those people did not vote in the 2020 election. All six have had their registrations canceled. The Associated Press has asked officials in several other counties if the attorney general had asked them about felons voting, and none had been contacted.

The indictment announced on Monday against Victor Manuel Aguirre, 46, of Sahuarita, was actually handed up on Aug. 2. Aguirre has been convicted of felony charges in Maricopa County four times between 2007 and 2013 and one felony in 2018 in Pima County.

A call seeking comment from Aquirres defense attorney on Monday was not immediately returned.

The Election Integrity Unit has also brought charges this year against a Scottsdale woman who allegedly voted her dead mothers early ballot in the November 2020 general election.

The unit receives a little more than $500,000 a year in dedicated state funding.
Albuquerque police determined that a mans death in July was the connected with the cocaine in his system, and police are not investigating the death as a homicide.

James Carmody, 24, died July 5 after an altercation with neighbors after Carmody illegally entered the back yard of a home near the 10220 block of Arroyo Crest NW, near Cottonwood Mall

Gilbert Gallegos, a police spokesman, said in a news release that Carmody had trespassed into at least two families yards and broke into a structure at one of the homes. He continued to run up and down the street despite neighbors telling him to leave.

At some point, Carmody was restrained by three men, stomach-down until police arrived. There were no findings of trauma to his body, Gallegos said.

He later died at a hospital.

The Office of the Medical Investigator recently determined that Carmodys death was the result of the toxic effects of cocaine in the setting of physical restraint.

Gallegos said there have been 89 homicides within Albuquerque polices jurisdiction this year.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

The shigella bacteria outbreak that claimed the lives of a gorilla and three siamangs at the ABQ BioPark Zoo in recent months, is under control and no new illnesses among the zoos animals have been found, zoo officials said last week.

Dr. Carol Bradford, the zoos senior veterinarian, said 16 primates at the zoo were affected by shigella, which is a gastrointestinal illness that can cause diarrhea, abdominal cramping, loss of appetite and lethargy. The symptoms can range from mild to severe and, in some instances, such as occurred at the BioPark Zoo, even death.

The shigella bacteria affects humans and primates, and is found in the fecal matter of infected individuals, Bradford said. It is transmitted via the fecal-oral route and is commonly passed along in contaminated food or water, or by contact with contaminated surfaces.

It can be transmitted from animal to animal by tools that zookeepers use to clean, it can be transmitted on peoples feet, it can be transmitted on peoples hands, Bradford said. Its even been reported that flies can transmit the bacteria.

Because there has been an increase in human cases of shigella in New Mexico this past summer, Bradford said, the zoo has been consulting with the state Department of Health and were following their investigation to find out if theres a common source between cases.

DOH spokesman David Morgan confirmed that there had been an uptick of human cases of shigella in New Mexico. Were still trying to determine the source for the shigella outbreak, and were continuing to work closely with the BioPark and the city of Albuquerque, he said.

Primates at the zoo began showing signs of the illness in early August. Antibiotics and fluids were immediately administered and those with the most severe symptoms were isolated in their private enclosures, Bradford said. We stopped keepers from going between buildings and we increased the personal protective equipment that keepers were wearing, which included Tyvek suits, in addition to the changing boots, masks and gloves that they had already been doing for COVID prevention.

Further, the frequency of cleaning and disinfecting the primate habitats and private enclosures was increased to multiple times each day, Bradford said.

Currently, only one gorilla, 16-year-old Hasani, remains under observation. Because he no longer has symptoms, he has been returned to his exhibit habitat with the other gorillas, but his appetite is not back to 100%, she said.

Among the primate deaths was 48-year-old female western lowland gorilla Huerfanita; siamang Brian, a 32-year-old male, and his mate, Johore, a 30-year-old female; and the youngest of their offspring, a male named Rue, who was born June 12.

Rues brother, Eerie, 4, is the only siamang remaining at the zoo and he wont be there long. Zoo manager Lynn Tupa said siamangs, like most primates, are social creatures and need to be in the company of other siamangs. Consequently, he will be placed with another zoo in the Southwest where he can be part of a larger siamang social group.

Until the zoo can bring in more siamangs, Tupa said their large habitat will provide an opportunity to move some animals around and temporarily give them more room.

The ABQ BioPark Zoo currently has more than 30 primates on display. In addition to gorillas and the one remaining siamang, there are chimpanzees, orangutans, lemurs, golden lion tamarins and howler monkeys.
Copyright  2021 Albuquerque Journal

Albuquerque police on Monday announced the arrests of two suspects in connection with a pair of unrelated homicides that happened three years ago.

Hunter Matney, 20, was arrested on suspicion of killing Skyler Monday, 24, at the 600 block of Topke Place NE on July 28, 2018.

An indictment filed in 2nd Judicial District Court last week charges Matney with six crimes, including murder, armed robbery, tampering with evidence, aggravated assault and shooting at or from a motor vehicle.

Matneys attorney could not be reached for comment on Monday.

Latrice Thomas, 40, is accused of killing Hilarie Humbles, 28, on May 8, 2018, in the 300 block of Western Skies SE.

She was indicted in July on charges of first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Gilbert Gallegos, a police spokesman, said both Matney and Thomas were in custody.

Thomas was arrested in 2019 on suspicion of killing Humbles, but was later released when a witness did not appear for pre-trial interviews, Gallegos said.

Thomas was recently arrested in Oakland, California.

According to a motion seeking to have Thomas held until trial, Humbles body was found at the apartment complex two days after her death.

Prosecutors said Thomas, Humbles and another person were videotaped shoplifting shortly before Humbles was killed and a witness told police that Thomas had admitted to killing Humbles.

It was unclear if Thomas had an attorney.
A campaign that began with ordinary people donating frequent-flyer miles has raised enough in two months to provide 40,000 flights for refugees from Afghanistan, and organizers and the White House are looking to nearly double that figure.

About 3,200 flights with donated miles have already carried Afghans from temporary housing at military bases in the U.S. to new homes around the United States, according to organizers.

Corporations have made half of the contributions so far, mostly in tickets donated by airlines.

The campaign is being organized by Welcome.US and Miles4Migrants, a group that was founded in 2016 and uses donated miles and credit card points to help refugees. The group saw support for refugees fleeing Afghanistan in August, as the U.S. military withdrew and turned the country over to the Taliban, and began talking to other nonprofits about helping.

Government resources are limited, and we knew that the American people wanted to support Afghans who were arriving and help them find safe homes, said the miles groups co-founder, Andy Freedman. Thats when we turned to the airlines.

United Airlines has contributed 7,000 flights and American Airlines donated 6,000. Smaller contributions have come in from Delta, JetBlue, Alaska, Frontier, Air Canada, aircraft maker Boeing and the Tripadvisor Charitable Foundation, organizers say.

Individuals have donated enough miles and credit card points to cover 20,000 flights, according to the organizers.

It is incredibly inspiring to see the American people and American companies coming together to welcome our new Afghan neighbors in this way, said Nazanin Ash, a former State Department official during the Bush and Obama administrations and now the CEO of Welcome.US, a new not-for-profit coalition that is trying to generate private-sector support for arriving Afghans.

The organizers are looking to raise enough additional donations to pay for another 30,000 flights. Using donated miles and cash to pay for travel will free up government refugee aid for housing and other services, organizers say.

Historically, the evacuees typically pay for their own travel. That is quite a burden to be putting on people who come (to the U.S.) with very little, said former Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, who is President Joe Bidens point person on aiding the Afghan refugees and is also Bidens nominee for ambassador to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

According to Markell, about 9,000 Afghans have been resettled in the U.S., about 53,000 are living in temporary housing at military bases in the U.S., another 3,700 are coming in next 10 days from bases in Europe and the Middle East, and up to 30,000 more are projected to arrive over the next year or so, a figure that includes people still in Afghanistan.

Military planes were used to evacuate Afghans from a chaotic scene at Kabuls main airport. Airlines then carried them from bases in Europe and the Middle East to the U.S. under contracts with the federal government

Veterans groups and others have scrambled to get Afghan allies such as interpreters who served the U.S. military on flights out of Kabul since the capital fell to the Taliban. Some dont have the special immigrant visas that were intended for Afghans who helped Americans during the 20-year U.S. military presence, and the U.S. abandoned its embassy in August.

Some former Trump administration officials are working to build opposition to the U.S. resettlement of Afghan refugees, saying they are a security threat. How many terrorists are among them? Trump said in a recent statement. The Biden administration says they were vetted before entering the U.S.
CAIRO  Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the prime minister, and thousands flooded the streets to protest the coup that threatened the countrys shaky progress toward democracy.

Security forces opened fire on some of them, and three protesters were killed, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee, which also said 80 people were wounded.

The takeover, which drew condemnation from the United Nations, the United States and the European Union, comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was supposed to hand the leadership of the council that runs the country over to civilians.

The U.N. Security Council scheduled an emergency closed meeting on the Sudan coup late Tuesday afternoon. The United States, United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Norway and Estonia requested the emergency consultations..

After the early morning arrests of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other senior officials, thousands demonstrated in the streets of the capital, Khartoum, and its twin city of Omdurman. They blocked streets and set fire to tires as security forces used tear gas to disperse them.

As plumes of smoke rose, protesters could be heard chanting, The people are stronger, stronger! and Retreat is not an option! Social media video showed crowds crossing bridges over the Nile to the center of the capital. The U.S. Embassy warned that troops were blocking parts of the city and urged the military to immediately cease violence.

Pro-democracy activist Dura Gambo said paramilitary forces chased protesters through some Khartoum neighborhoods.

Records from a Khartoum hospital obtained by The Associated Press showed some people admitted with gunshot wounds.

The head of the military, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, announced on national TV that he was dissolving the government and the Sovereign Council, a joint military and civilian body created soon after al-Bashirs ouster to run the country.

Burhan said quarrels among political factions prompted the military intervention. Tensions have been rising for weeks over the course and the pace of the transition to democracy in Sudan, a nation in Africa linked by language and culture to the Arab world.

The general declared a state of emergency and said the military will appoint a technocratic government to lead the country to elections, set for July 2023. But he made clear the military will remain in charge.

The Armed Forces will continue completing the democratic transition until the handover of the countrys leadership to a civilian, elected government, he said. He added that the constitution would be rewritten and a legislative body would be formed with the participation of young men and women who made this revolution.

The Information Ministry, still loyal to the dissolved government, called his speech an announcement of a seizure of power by military coup.

As darkness fell in Khartoum, barricades were still burning and occasional gunshots could be heard, said Volker Perthes, the U.N. special envoy for Sudan, at a briefing in New York.

President Joe Biden was briefed on Sudan in the morning, said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre. She added that the U.S. was deeply alarmed at reports of a military takeover and called for the immediate release of the prime minister and other officials.

The actions today are in stark opposition to the will of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace, liberty and justice, Jean-Pierre said.

The Biden administration is suspending $700 million in emergency economic aid to Sudan that had been allocated to help the transition, said State Department spokesman Ned Price. He called it a pause, and urged the civilian-led government be immediately restored.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemns the ongoing military coup detat in Khartoum and all actions that could jeopardize Sudans political transition and stability, said his spokesman, spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Guterres also called for the release of the government officials, the spokesman said, as did the African Union. EU foreign affairs chief Joseph Borrell tweeted that he was following the events with the utmost concern.

Michelle Bachelet, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, warned that Sudan could slip backward, urging the military to free the officials, withdraw from the streets and settle differences with the transitional government through dialogue.

Since al-Bashir, who remains in prison, was forced from power, Sudan has tried to rid itself of the international pariah status it held under the autocrat. The country was removed from the U.S. list of state supporters of terrorism in 2020, opening the way for badly needed foreign loans and investment.

But Sudan has struggled with the shock of a number economic reforms called for by international lending institutions.

In recent weeks, there have been concerns the military might be planning a takeover, and in fact there was a failed coup attempt in September. Tensions only rose from there, as the country fractured along old lines, with more conservative Islamists who want a military government pitted against those who toppled al-Bashir in protests. In recent days, both camps have staged demonstrations.

Amid the standoff, the generals have called repeatedly for dissolving Hamdoks transitional government  and Burhan, who leads the ruling Sovereign Council, said frequently the military would only relinquish power to an elected government, an indication the generals might not stick to the plan to hand leadership of the body to a civilian sometime in November. The council is the ultimate decision-maker, though the Hamdok government is tasked with running Sudans day-to-day affairs.

As part of efforts to resolve the crisis, Jeffrey Feltman, the U.S. special envoy to the Horn of Africa, met with Sudanese officials over the weekend, and a senior Sudanese military official said he tried unsuccessfully to get the generals to stick to the agreed plan.

The arrests began a few hours later, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief media. The official said the prime minister and the others were being detained in a military camp outside Khartoum.

Perthes said he and Feltman, in parallel meetings with political and military leaders in recent weeks, had tried to urge a return to dialogue and against a coup, which he said would squander the achievements of the first two years of the transition.

State Department spokesman Price said Feltman warned Burhan and others that any unconstitutional changes in the government would have consequences.

The military has been emboldened in its dispute with civilian leaders by the support of tribal protesters, who blocked the countrys main Red Sea port for weeks. The two most senior military officials, Burhan and his deputy Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, also have close ties with Egypt and the wealthy Gulf nations of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The first reports of a possible military takeover emerged before dawn, and the Information Ministry later confirmed them, saying Hamdok and several senior government figures had been arrested. Internet access was widely disrupted and the state news channel played traditional patriotic music.

Hamdoks office denounced the detentions on Facebook as a complete coup. It said his wife was also arrested.

Sudan has suffered other coups since gaining its independence from Britain and Egypt in 1956. Al-Bashir came to power in 1989 in one such takeover, which removed the countrys last elected government.

Among those detained were senior government figures and political leaders, including the information and industry ministers, a media adviser to Hamdok and the governor of the state that includes the capital, according to the senior military official and another official. Both spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media.

After news of the arrests spread, the main pro-democracy group and two political parties appealed to the people to take to the streets. The Communist Party urged workers to protest what it described as a full military coup orchestrated by Burhan.



Associated Press writers Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations, Matthew Lee in Washington and Darlene Superville in Kearny, N.J., contributed to this report.
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An affidavit regarding the fatal accident on the set of movie 'Rust' reveals a statement by director Joel Souza as he remembers the moment cinematographer was accidentally gunned down.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Filmmaker Joel Souza has candidly recalled the moment Alec Baldwin fired the bullet that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of "Rust".

Hutchins died after being hit in the stomach while Souza was struck in the shoulder and hospitalised as a result of his injuries, with the director revealing she stumbled backwards after a "whip and a loud pop" of a gun, according to an affidavit obtained by the Los Angeles Times.

It reads, "Joel stated that they had Alec sitting in a pew in a church building setting, and he was practicing a cross draw. Joel said he was looking over the shoulder of (Hutchins), when he heard what sounded like a whip and then loud pop."

"Joel then vaguely remembers (Hutchins) complaining about her stomach and grabbing her midsection. Joel also said (Hutchins) began to stumble backwards and she was assisted to the ground."

According to the papers, Baldwin, who was handed the gun and told it was "cold" by assistant director David Halls, was "hysterical and absolutely inconsolable for hours" after accidentally shooting his colleague.

Halls had reportedly previously been the subject of complaints about his behaviour and safety on set, while the affidavits which also cite cameraman Reid Russell, who told investigators Baldwin was always careful with weapons on set.

The incident came amid turmoil on set, with several members of the camera crew walking off the production in a dispute over payment and lodging.

"Reid stated that the camera crew was having issues with production involving payment and housing," it reads, adding that six individuals had walked out.

Meanwhile, Serge Svetnoy, chief electrician for "Rust", blamed "negligence and unprofessionalism" for Hutchins' death in a post on Facebook, in which he revealed he held her in his arms following the incident.

Following the incident, Baldwin took to Twitter to express his condolences to the director of photography's loved ones, after the tragic accident on the Santa Fe, New Mexico set.

"There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours," he wrote.

"I'm fully cooperating with the police investigation to address how this tragedy occurred and I am in touch with her husband, offering my support to him and his family. My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna."
The CW TV

Bosses at Warner Brothers insist Dougray Scott is 'a consummate professional' despite Ruby Rose's allegations that the actor was 'a nightmare' on the TV set.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Warner Bros. bosses are defending "Batwoman" star Dougray Scott from allegations of abuse on set made by his former co-star, Ruby Rose.

The actress turned on Scott in an online tirade against showrunner Caroline Dries and producers Greg Berlanti and Sarah Schechter last week (ends22Oct21), accusing him of being "a nightmare" yelling at crew and abusing a stunt double - claims the Brit has been quick to dismiss.

"I absolutely and completely refute the defamatory and damaging claims made against me by her; they are entirely made up and never happened," he wrote.

Rose, who was fired from the show, threatened Scott with legal action over the weekend after he released his statement, confirming his former TV daughter was fired following a series of complaints about her "workplace behaviour" and reportedly launched a lawsuit against the Australian star.

Rose took to Instagram and raged, "Dougray. I have too many witnesses coming forward with worse than just your anger issues... but ur (you are) sueing (sic) me for 10 million cos @gberlanti shared his lawyer with you... please... come first so I can use the money from that case to take on g berlanti."

Warner Bros. TV bosses are standing by Scott, releasing a statement that reads, "We condemn the comments made by Ruby Rose about Dougray Scott. Warner Bros. has found Mr. Scott to be a consummate professional, and never received any allegation against him of bullying, or of abusive behavior on his part."

"Mr. Scott was greatly respected and admired by his colleagues, and was a leader on the set. Warner Bros. Television did not pick up Ruby Rose's option for an additional season because of multiple complaints about workplace behavior that were extensively reviewed by the Studio."

Meanwhile, a former "Batwoman" crew member, Alexander J. Baxter, has also spoken out about Rose's conduct on set, telling Comic Book Resources he had no problems with the "professional" members of the production company, calling the crew "lovely, hard-working, and dedicated."

"Then came Ruby Rose...," he said. "She stormed off set, she yelled at people, and whenever she interacted with any of us production assistants, we were disregarded as the trash we picked up. She was a dictator to work for."

Baxter also revealed Rose's alleged bad behaviour made him consider quitting.

"She was a horrible star and made so many of us feel like we were helping make a show for a dictator," he added. "When I read her article claiming that the production was at fault, it infuriated me because having been there, I don't wanna stand by and let her badmouth a company that she tried to screw over. No matter how bad your day, you have no right to be cruel."
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Hilaria Baldwin sends prayers and condolences to Halyna Hutchins and family following a deadly accident involving her actor husband on the set of western movie.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Hilaria Baldwin has expressed her deep sadness over the accidental shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The tragedy happened just outside Santa Fe, New Mexico on Thursday (21Oct21) on the set of Alec's western movie "Rust" after a prop gun that had been declared safe misfired, fatally wounding Hutchins and also injuring director Joel Souza.

On Monday (25Oct21), Alec's wife of nine years shared her condolences to Halyna's family on Instagram with a simple black and white graphic.

It reads, "My heart is with Halyna. Her husband. Her son. Their family and loved ones. And my Alec. It's said, 'there are no words' because it's impossible to express the shock and heartache of such a tragic accident. Heartbreak. Loss. Support."

Alec's daughter Ireland, his brother Stephen, and his niece, Stephen's daughter Hailey Bieber, have also shared their support for the "30 Rock" star and Hutchins' family.

On Friday, the actor shared his "shock and sadness," writing on Twitter, "There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours. I'm fully cooperating with the police investigation to address how this tragedy occurred and I am in touch with her husband, offering my support to him and his family. My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna."

According to People, Baldwin is "absolutely devastated" by the shooting and has cancelled all upcoming projects to be with his family.
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In his recent set in Nashville, the controversial funnyman jokingly agrees to meet with transgender community if they admit lesbian comedienne Hannah Gadsby is not funny.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Dave Chappelle has joked he will meet with transgender people who were offended by his Netflix special "The Closer" - if they admit lesbian comedienne Hannah Gadsby isn't funny.

On Monday (25Oct21), the controversial comic shared a video to Instagram, which appears to be from his set over the weekend in Nashville, Tennessee.

"The Closer" has received backlash for what members of the LGBTQ+ community perceive as offensive transphobic comments by Chappelle and last week (20Oct21) Netflix employees staged real-time and virtual walk-outs in protest - backed by activists and trans celebrities, including actor Elliot Page and director Lilly Wachowski.

"To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience, but you will not summon me. I am not bending to anyone's demands," Emmy winner Chappelle says in the five-minute Instagram clip. Comments on the post appear to have been turned off.

"And if you want to meet with me, I am more than willing to, but I have some conditions," he adds. "First of all, you cannot come if you have not watched my special from beginning to end. You must come to a place of my choosing at a time of my choosing, and thirdly, you must admit that Hannah Gadsby is not funny."

Earlier this month, Gadsby, who won an Emmy for her 2018 Netflix comedy special "Nanette", called Dave "emotionally stunted" and railed about the "hate and anger that Dave Chapelle's fans like to unleash on me", after Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos mentioned her comedy specials in trying to offset some of the outcry over "The Closer". The Australian comic also lashed out at the streaming service and its CEO, writing,"f**k you and your amoral algorithm cult."

In the Instagram clip, Chappelle also laments that film festivals and studios have dropped his "Untitled" documentary, saying, "Thank God for Ted Sarandos and Netflix, he's the only one that didn't cancel me yet."

According to a source who was at the Nashville show, Dave started his set with a "statement" to those he'd offended, jokingly pulling out a piece of paper and reading "F**k y'all, n**gas!" TMZ reported.

Chappelle went on to quip that he's in so much trouble, he couldn't even get DaBaby, who stirred up controversy and lost endorsements and festival gigs following a homophobic rant at Miami's Rolling Rock festival in July (21), on the phone.
Twitter Celebrity

The actor and skateboarder is charged with second-degree criminal mischief after being arrested for defacing the statue in Manhattan's Union Square Park by throwing gray paint on its face.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Micah Beals had a run-in with the law. The actor and skateboarder was charged with second-degree criminal mischief after allegedly vandalizing the George Floyd statue in Manhattan's Union Square Park.

According to the New York Police Department, the 37-year-old actor was arrested on Monday, October 25 after he was caught defacing the statue at Union Square Park at around 10 A.M. on October 3. Footage released after the incident showed a man, wearing a dark green jacket, a neon green T-shirt, black shorts, black-and-white sneakers and a black beanie, walking along the park carrying his skateboard in one hand.

In the clip, it could be seen that Micah later hid behind a nearby statue of the late Rep. John Lewis. He went on to grab something from his green backpack before he got on his skateboard, heading to the statue.

Micah then hurled gray paint at the George Floyd statue. After throwing paint at the bust's face and base, he rode off, heading north on the west side of the park at around 10.15 A.M.

Two people, apparently a woman and a child, were standing nearby when the vandalism occurred. "The individual threw gray paint on the face and base of the statue and then fled the location while still riding on the skateboard," the authorities confirmed in a report on the incident.

The vandalism was originally being investigated as a hate crime, but Micah has not been charged for a hate crime. The authorities have yet to address a possible motive for the vandalism incident.

Following the incident, Confront Art and We Are Floyd released a statement. "It takes a lot of courage to display the 3 statues we are exhibiting in Union Square," so read the statement. "It also takes a good deal of courage to vandalize a statue on a global stage in broad daylight."

"This continues to bring light to our mission that art is a conversation catalyst, a place for public discourse and through these acts we can hopefully overcome hate and find unity for the future," the statement added. "We continue to be inspired to create and display public art to further this important mission."

The George Floyd bust opened to the public just two days before the incident, after first being unveiled on Juneteenth in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. Less than a week later, the statue was also defaced with black paint and the message "Patriot Front," a white nationalist hate group.
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In a release statement about 'Trapped In Treatment', the 'This Is Paris' star expresses her excitement in bringing forth the docu-style audio series that will feature the stories of survivors.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Paris Hilton is producing a new podcast exploring abuse at youth treatment facilities.

Last week (ends October 22), during a trip to Washington, D.C., the reality TV star recruited a group of top politicians to her cause as she fights for new legislation for detention centers and academies for troubled kids - like the one she attended as a teenager in Provo, Utah. And now her crusade to protect teens from abuse is heading to the podcast world.

iHeartRadio's "Trapped In Treatment" will be a docu-style audio series discussing the dark side of these facilities, and will feature the stories of survivors.

"For 20 years, I lived silently with the memories, and the trauma, from my experience at Provo Canyon School," Paris said in a statement. "This past year, thousands of survivors like me have shared their stories, helping to bring into public view what so many of us have locked up."

"Provo Canyon School will not be able to hide behind the abuse they've caused survivors any longer. I am so proud to be producing Trapped in Treatment and can't wait to take you on this audio journey."

The series will premiere in 2022. Hilton was instrumental in getting a bill passed in Utah, which requires more government oversight of youth residential treatment centers. This has now been adopted by officials in four other states.

"The multibillion-dollar troubled teen industry has been able to mislead parents, school districts, child welfare agencies and juvenile justice systems for decades," the 40-year-old said when calling for more supervision on youth treatment facilities. "The reason is a systemwide lack of transparency and accountability."
ABC TV

In a new episode of the long-running ABC dancing competition show, the remaining celebrity and pro dancer couples bring horror to the ballroom as they celebrate 'Horror Night'.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - "Dancing with the Stars" season 30 returned with a brand new episode on Monday, October 25. In the new outing, the remaining celebrity and pro dancer couples brought horror to the ballroom as they celebrated "Horror Night".

Kicking off the episode with a strong start were The Miz and his partner Witney Carson. They danced the Paso Doble to "Wicked Games" in a routine which was inspired by the iconic horror flick "Hellraiser". "I've got to say, you nailed it. It was a mix of aggression and expression. I would like a little stronger posture and something is funny about your hands. But overall, this was no nightmare, it was a really tough performance," judge Len Goodman said. The pair got 34/40.

Later, Kenya Moore and Brandon Armstrong danced the Argentine Tango to "Take My Breath" by The Weeknd in an "Arachnophobia"-inspired performance. Derek Hough loved it, praising "The Real Housewives of Atlanta" star, "You have this elegant demeanor about you that is so pleasant watch and so stunning. There were a few wobbles here and there and a few extra steps. But, I am always so impressed with you, that leg extension was wow. Beautiful dance." Kenya was given 32/40.

Going full Pennywise was JoJo Siwa, who danced Jazz to District 78 ft. Patrice Covington's "Anything Goes" alongside pro Jenna Johnson in an "It"-inspired number. Bruno Tonioli claimed that the performance was both "terrifying and absolutely brilliant." Carrie Ann Inaba added, "I have so many thoughts going through my head. It's obvious you are a brilliant dancer. I loved the way you pushed yourself further and you nailed it." JoJo got a perfect score!

Cody Rigsby and Cheryl Burke, meanwhile, danced the Cha Cha to "There Will Be Blood" by Kim Petras in a number which was inspired by "American Psycho". "I don't know about halloween, I am going to say hallelujah because I have been waiting for you to come out her and really show us your potential and tonight you have done it," Len commented, while Bruno said, "I find you guilty of murder on the dancefloor. The Cha Cha Cha was great." The judges gave Cody 36/40.

Meanwhile, Jimmie Allen and pro Emma Slater danced the Contemporary to Daniel Jang's "Say Something" in an emotional performance which was inspired by "A Quiet Place". "It went beyond dancing, you captured the essence of the movie which is actually a love story. Great job," Bruno raved. The pair got 38/40.

Following it up was Olivia Jade and Valentin Chmerkovskiy, who opted to dance the Paso Doble to "Beggin' " by Maneskin in "The Purge"-inspired routine. "I don't know why you were in the bottom two last week, I think you have done an amazing job all season long and you are incredible. That was a difficult routine and you did such a great job, well done," Derek said. The pair got 36/40.

Dancing the Jive to "Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley in a "Cujo"-inspired performance was Melora Hardin and her pro partner Artem Chigvintsev. "That was a great performance, I feel that you need to give us more. There is always a pattern of a little bit of humour, a little levity," Carrie Ann said of the performance, but she noted that she want Melora to "push" herself more. The judges gave the pair 34/40.

As for Iman Shumpert and Daniella Karagach, they danced the Contemporary to Luniz ft. Michael Marshall's "I Got 5 on It (Tethered Mix from US)" as they dressed as characters in "US". Len praised them as saying, "You came up with the most brilliant concept that made Iman look fantastic, it was tight, it was together, it was terrific." Bruno echoed the sentiment, calling the number "a masterpiece performance." Iman was also given a perfect score.

Suni Lee and Sasha Farber then hit the ballroom to dance the Tango to "Bad Habits" by Ed Sheeran in a performance inspired by "The Vampire Diaries". "I love me some magic, there was a little disconnect with the music," Derek said, while Bruno loved that Suni was "enhancing the drama." The pair got 36/40.

Rounding out the night were Amanda Kloots and Alan Bersten. The pair danced the Argentine Tango to Ciara's "Paint It, Black" for a "Saw"-inspired performance. "That was so sharp, there was so much real Argentine Tango there, the whole thing was great," Bruno praised "The Talk" co-host. Meanwhile, Carrie Ann said, "Amanda you do not disappoint with any performance you brought on this dance floor. I think you are pushing yourself with too much tension and forcing some of the movements instead of allowing it." The judges gave them 38/40.

Suni Lee & Sasha and Kenya & Brandon were named as the pairs in the bottom two. Eventually, Kenya and Brandon were eliminated.
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The 'Drop It Like It's Hot' hitmaker is reportedly 'very emotional' after closing his performance at Boston's Big Night Live venue with a special touching tribute to his late mom.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Snoop Dogg has paid a heartfelt tribute to his late mom Beverly Tate. Just hours after announcing his beloved mother's passing, the "Gin and Juice" rapper ended his Boston concert with a special note.

During his performance at Boston's Big Night Live venue on Sunday, October 24, the "Drop It Like It's Hot" rapper told the crowd that he decided to follow through with the show because "in the spirit of the people of Boston, [he] wanted to come out here and represent for y'all." The audience erupted into cheers, before he added, "Before we leave, we're going to play this record for my angel mom."

Snoop then started playing "Stand by Me" by Ben E. King and asked the crowd to throw two fingers in the air to create a sea of peace signs. Throughout the beginning of the song, Snoop was seen wearing sunglasses.

At one point in the clip, Snoop took off the shades and sang along to the lyrics, "I won't cry/ I won't cry/ No, I won't shed a tear/ Just as long as you stand, stand by me." He then could be heard telling the crowd, "I needed this," before pumping a fist in the air. He concluded the show as saying, "I f**king love y'all for getting my spirit right tonight. Peace, love and soul."

Even though Snoop became emotional after the show, he appeared to maintain his composure while performing. "He was very emotional after the show," Randy Greenstein, a partner at Big Night Live, told Page Six on Monday, October 25.

Randy also stated that the tribute was Snoop's idea. "We didn't know [about it beforehand]," the music venue exec said. "He just did it. He thanked our team, said he needed this show. He needed the love from the audience. It meant a lot to him." He added that the hip-hop icon never attempted to cancel and said his mom "would've wanted him to do the show."

Snoop announced his mom's death on October 24 via Instagram. Alongside a photograph of Beverly, who wore a red dress and matching hat, he wrote, "Thank u god for giving me an angel for a mother. TWMA."

Snoop's mother passed away after long hospitalization for undisclosed reasons. The rapper, whose real name is Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr., opened up about his mother's health issue in May. At that time, he said, "Sending special prayers out for my mom this morning y'all pray for her and me."

Then in July, Snoop shared an update on Beverly's condition, noting that she's "still fighting." Alongside a picture that saw him and his mom in a hospital room, the "Young, Wild & Free" spitter wrote, "Happy Sunday me and my brothers went to c mama today and she opened up her eyes to c us and let us know she still fighting."
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It was previously reported that the 'Whole Lotta Red' rapper's concert at Houston's NRG Park on Saturday night, October 23 was shut down due to security concerns.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Playboi Carti has seemingly reacted to the madness in his Houston concert that eventually forced him to cancel his show. The "Whole Lotta Red" rapper took to his Twitter account on Monday, October 25 to write some cryptic messages that many believed were about the riot.

"HARDcore," the rapper penned on the blue bird app. He then added in a separate tweet, "Cult."

Playboi Carti sent out cryptic tweet.

It was unknown what Carti was trying to say with those tweets. However, most fans believed that he was referring to the chaos ahead of his scheduled appearance at Houston's NRG Park on Saturday night.

It was previously reported that Carti's concert was shut down due to security concerns. In some videos which were circulating on social media, some fans could be seen breaching security barriers around the arena and rushing the venue which caused a chaos.

The situation led a number of police officers to order the crowd to leave the stadium. It is unknown if anyone got arrested or injured amid the riot. As for the NRG officials, they promised concertgoers a refund following the canceled show.

The cancellation arrived after chaos ensued at Carti's show back in August. At the time, fans of Miley Cyrus claimed that they got stuck in a mosh pit from the Atlanta MC's set at Lollapalooza in Chicago. Blaming the rapper's fans, one Miley stan wrote on Snapchat, "Don't go to a carti concert his fans are insane someone punched my contact out people were passing out [someone] had a seizure ppl were / are bleeding."

Another person, meanwhile, shared a screenshot of a conversation with one concertgoer. "Bro cuz it was a ton of Miley girl stans," the person penned. "Waiting for miley. They had no clue what was comin. I tried to warn em. Yes Miley went after them. So there was a ton of 4'11 white girls in tht b***h literally crying it was awful."
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Senator Amy Klobuchar and Minnesota state representative Ilhan Omar introduce a resolution to the U.S. Congress to award the 'Purple Rain' hitmaker one the nation's highest civilian honors.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - U.S. politicians from Prince's home state of Minnesota are keen to recognize the late superstar with a posthumous Congressional Gold Medal.

Senator Amy Klobuchar and Minnesota state representative Ilhan Omar introduced a resolution to the U.S. Congress on Monday, October 25 to award the state's most famous musician one the nation's highest civilian honors.

The resolution cited Prince's "indelible mark on Minnesota and American culture," according to The Associated Press.

The prestigious honor has previously been bestowed on such historic figures as first U.S. President George Washington, American aviation pioneers the Wright Brothers, civil rights icon Rosa Parks, Mother Teresa and the Dalai Lama.

"Purple reigns in Minnesota today and every day because of him," Klobuchar, a former 2020 U.S. presidential candidate, said in a statement about the music legend, who passed away in 2016 following an accidental overdose of fentanyl.

"The world is a whole lot cooler because Prince was in it - he touched our hearts, opened our minds, and made us want to dance. With this legislation, we honor his memory and contributions as a composer, performer, and music innovator."

"Prince is a Minnesota icon," said Omar in a statement. "He showed that it was OK to be a short, Black kid from Minneapolis and still change the world. He not only changed the arc of music history; he put Minneapolis on the map."

The legislation notes that Prince is "widely regarded as one of the greatest musicians of his generation," with seven Grammy Awards, six American Music Awards, an Oscar for the score to his 1984 film Purple Rain and a Golden Globe.

The "Little Red Corvette" superstar was inducted into the American Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2004, one of the many honors he received in his lifetime.

If the gold medal is approved and made, the bill requests it be given to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C., where it would likely be put on display to the public.
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The 'Go Crazy' rapper reportedly purchased a Dodge Hellcat TRX which costs between $60,000 to $72,000 without additional modifications before customizing it for three days.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Young Thug really knows how to make 21 Savage's birthday extra special. To celebrate his close friend's 29th birthday, the "Go Crazy" rapper presented him with a $150,000 custom Ram 1500 TRX truck.

While celebrating Savage's birthday at a FreakNik-inspired party in Atlanta on Sunday, October 24, the 30-year-old rapper brought his lavish gift. Of his present, it was reported that he visited the Roadshow International car dealership in Atlanta and purchased a Dodge Hellcat TRX. The vehicle costs between $60,000 to $72,000 without additional modifications.

The customizations for the truck included dagger patterns that resembled Savage's synonymous forehead tattoo. Other massive Savage logos could also be seen on the doors of the car, as well a cartoon version of Savage's face was seen emblazoned on the seats. According to the owner of Roadshow International, the customizations were fitted in three days before Thug gifted it to the birthday guy.

Prior to giving Savage a custom truck, Thug also gifted Drake with a one-of-a-kind chain. The "In My Feelings" hitmaker received Thug's present at his Cocaine Cowboys-themed 35th birthday bash in Los Angeles on Saturday night, October 23.

Drake received a diamond-encrusted chain made by the famed jeweler Elliot Eliantte. The iced-out piece boasted the OVO owl drenched in yellow-and-white diamonds, with a picture of the "Degrassi: The Next Generation" alum and his 4-year-old son Adonis on the back of the pendant.

Thug is known for giving the best gifts to his friends for their birthdays. In August, he gave Gunna a $200,000 pink Continental GT Convertible Bentley to mark his 30th birthday. As if that wasn't enough, when Gunna was in the hospital battling pneumonia in July, Thug headed over to his bedside with several Audemars Piguet and Cartier watches.

Gunna, whose real name is Sergio Giavanni Kitchens, was clearly thrilled with the gifts, which apparently lifted up his spirit and eased his pain. Thanking Thugga for his generosity, he posted on his Instagram Story two clips of him showing off the lavish watches.

"Still my birthday," Gunna said with a laugh. "Still my birthday. Not one, not two, not three, FOUR. Still my birthday!" he continued, before panning the camera to Thug. He wrote over the clip, "My twin @thuggerthugger1 ain't never late. I think I'm feeling better already."
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When appearing on the 'No Jumper' podcast, Kelly Kay also divulges that she first met the 'Bloody Valentine' rocker at club LIV in Miami after the Super Bowl.

Oct 26, 2021

AceShowbiz - Machine Gun Kelly's former girlfriend has dropped a major bombshell regarding their sex life. Claiming that she and the "Bad Things" hitmaker once did an anal sex on Logan Paul's G-Wagon, Kelly Kay admitted in a new interview that she's got hemorrhoid ever since.

Kay got candid about her intimate night with the musician when appearing on the "No Jumper" podcast. "We were on the back of Logan Paul's G-wagon, standing up... it was really hot and he like... busted a load in my a** and I had to go back in the party; dripping out of my a**," she first divulged.

Kay went on to note that she was wearing a menstrual cup at that time because she was on her period. "It's better than Tampons," she explained. "Anyways... I had to deal with that but THEN, a couple of days later, I got a hemorrhoid and I still have a hemorrhoid to this day."

"Because he did anal so much and his d**k is so big," the Instagram model further shared. "Literally I was like 'I love you but you f**ked up my a**hole for life.' "

Earlier in the chat, Kay revealed that she first met the 31-year-old rapper at club LIV in Miami after the Super Bowl. "It was low-key and he did whatever he wanted to do," the blonde beauty recalled.

It remains unclear how long Kay was dating MGK. However, the "Bloody Valentine" rocker is now in a romantic relationship with "Transformers" actress, Megan Fox.

MGK first met Fox on the set of "Midnight in the Switchgrass". The lovebirds reportedly began dating in March 2020, months before Brian Austin Green confirmed his split from the "Jennifer's Body" star. As for the exes, who share 9-year-old Noah, 7-year-old Bodhi and 5-year-old Journey together, they finalized their divorce earlier this month.
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The Japanese royal has reportedly forgone royal ceremony as she gives up her royal title to marry her college sweetheart Kei Komuro after four years of engagement.

Oct 27, 2021

AceShowbiz - Japan's Princess Mako has given up her royal title to wed her college sweetheart.

The niece of the Emperor Naruhito exchanged vows with Kei Komuro on Tuesday (26Oct21), and according to Japanese law, she had to leave the imperial family.

At a press event staged after the nuptials, the former princess said, "I am very sorry for the inconvenience caused and I am grateful for those... who have continued to support me. For me, Kei is irreplaceable (and) marriage was a necessary choice for us."

Mako was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder as a result of the intense media coverage following her decision to wed a commoner.

Her new husband told the media, "I love Mako. We only get one life, and I want us to spend it with the one we love."

The newlyweds met during their time at International Christian University in Tokyo.

"Our first proper conversation was at the study abroad orientation held on campus in 2012," Kei said in a press conference when announcing their engagement.

"We began dating before the study abroad began, and, afterwards, the Princess traveled to Britain for a year, and myself to America, so we were separated for a long while. However, even during that time, we continued to stay in touch, and our relations deepened."

They announced their betrothal in 2017, but he asked to marry her four years prior. "After returning home, we confirmed our mutuals feelings, and I offered a proposal. In December 2013, I proposed to the Princess with the words, 'Let's marry in the future.' "

Before finally tying the knot this year, the couple put their nuptials on hold for four years due to a financial dispute involving the Komuro family.

Because of the intense media scrutiny, Mako allegedly opted to forgo royal wedding ceremony and the $1.3 million usually paid to departing royals. The couple plan to move to the U.S.
REDDING Calif. - Sunday's storm slammed Dairyville hard as rising waters flooded several houses, and knocked down trees and power lines.

Action News Now spoke with Tim Prest, who lives in Dairyville, and he says the flooding wasn't the only issue.

"It went through it was about eight inches deep, for about one hundred yards that way flowing down towards the south. The wind was blowing rain was hard, a transformer blew the telephone lines were on fire, but it quite a day yesterday," Prest said.

Prest says this isn't the first time he has had to deal with this situation. He says he is lucky because his house has a retaining wall, so the water doesn't flood his home, but some of his neighbors were not so lucky.

RELATED: With wet weather, drivers urged to be cautious on the roads

Neighbor Julie Umali happened to be one of the unlucky ones whose house flooded.

"It was so scary the water was coming in, and we were trying to stop it, we had put up all these barriers, to try to keep it our and it was still coming in, it was so scary approaching the house because we had been trying to get the thing out ahead of time, we rented a u-haul to try to throw everything in the back of it," Umali said.

Umali says she hopes an agency will step in and do something to prevent Antelope Creek from flooding like this.

Right now, her family is displaced and cannot get back into their homes until the repairs are made, but those are costly, and they don't have insurance.
OROVILLE, Calif. - The weekend rain is brought a big boost to Lake Oroville which earlier this year reached a record low water level.

On Sunday morning the lake sat at 631 feet and it jumped to 651 feet by Monday morning, a 20-foot increase.

"Tomorrow, Wednesday, maybe even Thursday we'll see those numbers continue to come up, hydrology section manager at the Department of Water Resources, David Rizzardo said.

Rizzardo told Action News Now that he projects the water rising 10,000-15,000 cubic feet per second, a dramatic difference from the dry summer months.

During the summer they saw maybe 1,000-1,200 cubic feet per second.

This is certainly a nice change in the right direction, Rizzardo said. It depends on how the watershed reacts especially with how dry it's been and especially with some of the burn areas. So those numbers could be on the high end or they could be a little bit lower than that."

Less than one month ago you could see trees peeking out of the water and things looking a whole lot drier. Now, almost all the branches are completely submerged.

RELATED: Wet and windy storm cost one local farmer hundreds of trees

"Now that we are at this record low in the lake, I kind of explain it as this cone effect, Superintendent of California State Parks, Matt Teague said. The lake is going to rise much faster at the bottom of the lake because of that less surface area."

Extreme erosion and thick silt now line where the Stage III Boat Launch Ramp is.

"We need about 20 more feet to open up our lowest concrete ramps and that would be at Bidwell Canyon Stage III, Teague said. Right around 660-665 is when we prepare to open that back up."

Once it dries out and the expected runoff moves in over the next few days Teague told Action News Now we could be at the bottom of the Stage III Ramp before we know it.

It will still be some time before we see these houseboats back out on the water. The boats were pulled at around that 700-foot mark when the Bidwell Canyon Marina Stage II Boat Launch Ramp was still open, but we will need to see a pretty wet winter in order to put them back onto the water.

Even with some water flowing in, it also still might be a while before the Hyatt Power Plant resumes operation.

"It's been offline for a couple of months now, but I am not sure if we have an exact figure for when it's going to come back online, but it's being assessed, Rizzardo said.

In a normal water year, DWR Officials told Action News Now the Northern Sierra on average would see about 53 inches of precipitation. It is just three weeks into the water year and there have been nearly 12 inches.

That is a great start, but to make a significant dent in ending the drought DWR said we would need to see 75 to 80 inches.
YREKA, Calif. (KDRV)  A Siskiyou County mother says that her 5-year-old daughter was hospitalized last week after somehow coming into contact with the powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl while at school.

Danyel Eldridge-Mott told NewsWatch 12 that her daughter, Addison, was attending an after-school program at Grenada Elementary on Thursday, October 21, when she suddenly became extremely ill and was taken to the hospital. It wasn't until about 24 hours later that Mott was told her daughter had tested positive for fentanyl while at a hospital in Davis, California.

It's still not entirely clear how much fentanyl Addison came into contact with. It's also unknown where or how she was exposed to the opioid.

The Siskiyou Opioid Safety Coalition reports that, although many rates are showing drastic declines, the overall death rate nationwide from opioid overdose continues to rise due to the increases in use of synthetic opioids such as fentanyl, which is 80-100 times stronger than morphine.

In an October 24 letter to families obtained by NewsWatch 12, Grenada Elementary superintendent and principal GingerLee Charles said that the school would be closed until further notice "due to confidential and unforeseen circumstances," lasting at least through Wednesday.

"This closure is due to an incident that involved one of our students being hospitalized after exhibiting symptoms at school," Charles wrote. "Thankfully, the student is recovering and our concerned thoughts and prayers are with the family."

Charles indicated that school officials were working with Siskiyou County Public Health, county education administrators, and law enforcement in an ongoing investigation.

"We understand this is an extremely serious and difficult situation and will share more information as we are able. Your patience is appreciated and updates will be provided daily," Charles concluded.

In an interview with Newswatch 12, Mott said, "I have a firm feeling that this is something that came from a staff member, unfortunately, that is employed at the school. So, that brings me to my concern for our schools and our children."

"Due to everything that's been going on, I haven't been able to look into drug screening policies for our schools, but it's something I'm really interested in."

When Mott found her daughter in the unusual and scary state, she was at the after school program called SAFE, Siskiyou After School for Everyone, which she says is state funded.

Mott said, "We need a program that is 100% transparent and that we can trust."

Mott says her family developed the hashtag #addistrong on Facebook to spread awareness of Addison's story and to "make a change in our school systems so our children are protected and so this doesn't happen to anyone else child."

Child Protective Services and Deputy Nowdesha with the Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office are involved in the investigation.

NewsWatch 12 has reached out to the principal/superintendent at Grenada Elementary, as well as the Siskiyou County Sheriff to get more details on the situation.

Mott tells NewsWatch 12 she has not taken any steps toward legal action at this time as her family is still recovering from the horror of the situation.
Ushering in the festive fervour, Bombay Shaving Company celebrates the representation of an ideal man by launching an unconventional campaign in Kolkata - Ebar Pujoy Kartiker Joy (Glorify Kartik this Pujo). Deeply insightful and culturally relevant, the campaign is designed to encourage Bengali men to embrace the confidence of grooming, in an authentic flavour, laced with cheer and wit. Historically, the festive season has always been all about the archetype of the strong and beautiful woman, represented by Durga. However, Bombay Shaving Company took inspiration from Kartik (son of Goddess Durga) who is a symbol of the male ideal  attractive, intelligent, and kind to create awareness and build appeal for male grooming products.

Kartik er moto dekhte (Looks like Karthik) is also an expression used to refer to the ideal man in Bengali.

The brand has deployed a combination of radio, ambient media, digital geo-fencing around catchments, along with other strategic interventions, like busses and interesting POS to guide customers down the funnel to stores, both offline and online through this campaign. With this, BSC has announced its intent to break out of the internet and meet consumers where they are like established FMCG giants.

Giving an insight into the campaign, interestingly titled - Ebar Pujoy Kartiker Joy, Deepak Gupta, COO, Bombay Shaving Company shares There is a rich story existed in the folklore narrating Kartik (son of Goddess Durga) and we decided to bring this symbol alive and encourage all men to look and be their best. We are driving a marketing-led growth agenda at BSC. Its critical for our category, and there is no better sandbox to test this than Kolkata, during Durga Puja & the ongoing Kartik month. The region is known to be a cultural hub filled with opinion makers and thought leaders, who carry their preferences across the country. We are overjoyed with the initial response and keen to replicate this model in other geographies.

We are delighted to see data indicate that we are poised to make over 2Cr unique impressions with the campaign, gain market share, and see subscriptions from the region grow 20%. He added.

The campaign is conceptualized and developed entirely in-house and taken into the heart of Kolkata.

All the products are available on the brand website, e-marketplaces like Amazon, Flipkart, Nykaa, Cred, and across 25000 retail outlets like Health & Glow, Metro, Reliance, Shoppers Stop, Apollo Pharmacy, and many more.
CarDekho today launched an innovative and smart billboard advertisement in Jaipur. The Billboard that promotes CarDekho Mall is one-of-its-kind installation that features a 3D rendition of a car that is driving to the sky with its headlights beaming brightly toward the stars giving the billboard a spectular feel. The hoarding has been erected on a heavy traffic route near Gopalpura Flyover.

With the installation of the new CarDekho 3D Sky LED hoarding, Charu Kishnani, Senior Vice President, Marketing, CarDekho Group said Here is a simple idea with an innovative approach on one of the oldest mediums of advertising. It not only attracts the audience but also delivers the message of our new CarDekho Mall which houses 500+ high quality used cars for all to see in Jaipur. While CarDekho continues to soar and reach new heights, we want to maintain that we are Indias most trusted place for used cars. With the onset of Diwali, we want people to light up their lives when they choose to buy a used car from CarDekho.

Shakun Advertising was the partner agency for CarDekho to execute the new CarDekho 3D Sky LED hoarding.

CarDekho launches CarDekho Mall amongst Indias largest Used Car Showrooms in India

Over 500+ CarDekho Assured, High Quality Used Cars on displayand available for immediate buying; 1000+ cars available in Jaipur online

CarDekho Mall provides New Car buy experience for used cars

Customers will have access to vehicles ranging from SUVs to sedans to hatchbacksand an exclusive line-up of premium cars

All cars come with best-in-class benefits  unheard of in the used car space

CarDekho, Indias leading full-stack auto tech company, launched the first-of-its-kind CarDekho Mall in Jaipur, a one-stop shop for all used car needs.The mall displays an exciting range of over 500+ CarDekho Assured, High Quality Used Cars, from premium vehicles to SUVs, compact SUVs, saloons, sedansand hatchbacks for immediate buying.CarDekho mall is amongst the largest used car showrooms in India. Customers can also checkout the cars and book test drive online.

The magnificent CarDekho Mall is located at Poddar Circle, Sitapura, Jaipur. The mall puts customer at its core and provides a convenient hassle free experience for all things used cars. Customers can check out cars online or walk in, browse and select from a wide range of high quality pre-loved cars, accessorize their car as they want and also opt for finance& insurance. Cardekho Mall team assures complete customer convenienceincluding hassle-free RC transfer.

Commenting on the launch, Mr Amit Jain, Co-founder and CEO of CarDekho said, In India,Used Car customers have been neglected for too long. We want to provide an exceptional experience for people looking to buy a used car. CarDekho Mall is a one stop destination for all things used car and would set a new benchmark with regards car retailing in India.Very few used car showrooms in India even come close to what CarDekho Mall has to offer.

He further added This initiative is an important milestone for CarDekho in our journey to revolutionalizethe Indian used-car space. We offer customers the best product, service and ease of purchase along with peace of mind. We aim to take CarDekho Mall across the country.

All cars sold at the CarDekho Mall come with hassle-free buying benefits and some exceptional first-in-class offers:

7 dayno questions asked money-back guarantee

6 months comprehensive warranty on engine and all parts

1 year free Road Side Assistance (RSA) Cover

Risk-free paperwork and free benefits (RC transfer,Complementary free service, etc)

All cars undergo a thorough 217 point evaluation process with checks on ownership, challan history, odometer tampering, accidental history, age of the car and the general condition of the car. CarDekhos expertise and experience will make the used car buying experience simpler, easier and enjoyable.
Digital agency Kinnect recently won the digital media mandate of leading tyre brand CEAT Tyres. The account was won following a multi-agency pitch.

The agency will be responsible for strengthening the brand's digital tyre prints. To build a unique digital identity, Kinnect will focus on social media management, creative communications, web development, as well as influencer outreach requirements of the brand. The agency will primarily focus on driving brand awareness through creative campaigns, as well as provide innovative solutions and ideas that enhance customer experience and build brand salience through various digital touchpoints.

Founded in 1958, CEAT is one of India's largest manufacturers of two-wheeler and four-wheeler tyres. Driven by the purpose of helping the world move safely and smartly, CEAT provides world-class products and services across 100+ countries. Its commitment to customer-centricity, world-class R&D, innovative capabilities, and perseverance for quality has been the main source of its growth and industry-leading work.

CEAT CMO Amit Tolani said: We endeavour to solidify our leadership in the mobility category, and Kinnect is a perfect partner to do this for us, impactfully. Digital communication will play a key role in our efforts to connect with our end customers, and the agencys creative capabilities will gear us towards forging a more personalised relationship with them. Kinnect perfectly fits the bill of meeting our expectations.

Kinnect CEO Rohan Mehta said: CEAT has given us the responsibility of being their custodians on digital - and were extremely excited to take it on. We look forward to exploring diverse opportunities to strengthen its digital footprints. We endeavour to push boundaries to drive great brand sentiment and devise effective strategies that make a business impact.
Lokmat Media Group on Sunday organised the first-ever National Inter-Religious Conference in Nagpur to commemorate its Nagpur edition's golden jubilee year celebrations. This is the first event in the series that are lined up to mark the completion of 50 years of Lokmat Nagpur edition's glorious journey. The theme of this first-of-its-kind conference was "Global Challenges to Communal Harmony and Role of India." Held at the Suresh Bhat Auditorium in Nagpur, the conference aimed at spreading the message of love, peace, and religious harmony all over the world. Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, was the chief guest of the event while Nagpur mayor Dayashankar Tiwari was the guest of honour.

Several spiritual and thought leaders from diverse religious were invited as keynote speakers for this event. They included Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, Founder of The Art of Living, Acharya Dr Lokeshmuni, Founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai, Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder of Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, Leh/Ladakh, Swami Ramdev, Founder, Patanjali Yogpeeth, Haridwar, Haji Syed Salman Chishty, Gaddi Nashin, Dargah Ajmer Sharif, Pralhad Wamanrao Pai of Jeevanvidya Mission, Mumbai and Brahmaviharidas Swami of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. Shri Vijay Darda, Chairman of Lokmat Media Group, Shri Rajendra Darda, Editor-in-Chief along with Shri Devendra Darda, Managing Director, Shri Rishi Darda, Jt. Managing Director & Editorial Director and Shri Vijay Baviskar, Group Editor were present at the conference.

On the occasion, Shri. Nitin Gadkari, said, Indian culture is one that is truly secular. Respecting all cultures, religions, communities, ideologies are the specialty of Indian culture, which is not associated with any "dharma". Oneness is the biggest strength of Indian culture and this is what makes us capable of becoming a Vishwa Guru or world teacher, which was predicted earlier by Swami Vivekananda.

In a video message, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat said, "Religion is the connector. But if the human feeling is negative, people work to divide the society by abusing religion. This is because there is no interaction with each other. Therefore, we need to remind the community that we are one."

Founder of Ahimsa Vishwa Bharti, Acharya Dr Lokesh Muni, said, Existence of others should be acknowledged as much as our own. Religion is humanity and we all are extensions of opinions. This country is not only secular but also non-sectarian. Today a positive feeling is required. This world is beautiful except for negativity. The chariot of messengers of peace here should go forward. The discussion on thoughts in this congregation of religious leaders should reach every part of the world. The lifestyle based on Ayurved, yoga-pranayam and restraint should be accepted once again.

Brahmaviharidas Swami, BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha said, Once upon a time, landing on the Moon or space travel were like dreams. But now they are reality now. Many feel that prevailing social harmony in the world is a dream. But it is my belief that this dream will be fulfilled. If the entire society makes collective efforts for spreading love, following rules and developing good life, the global social harmony can be established. Instead of expecting social harmony from the world, people have to start with themselves.

Swami Ramdev, Yoga Guru and Founder, Patanjali Yogpeeth, emphasised, World has danger from religious, financial and political terrorism. The world is facing biggest threat from religious, economic and political terrorism. The name should be Sarva Panth and not Sarva Dharma. Instead of saying that all will be Hindus, Muslims or Christians, we should say that all should be made human beings. The country works as per the Constitution while the society is based on spirituality. There is a need to take a stand that we all are united.

Cardinal Oswald Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai, while sharing his thoughts said, "As the hatred is being spread in the name of religion, the world needs to create an attitude of acceptance of the existence of other religions along with mutual dialogue. The concept

of god and some thoughts are different in every religion. But there are many similarities too. If we think with an open mind and brain, it will appear that we all have more of the same links than contradictions. Therefore, instead of paying attention towards contradictions, we should focus on the similarities.

"Efforts to make each other happy and respect for each other's feelings are worship to god. These are the values of human culture and these should be inculcated from childhood. Equality, civility, harmony, tolerance, gratitude and moral values are all values of life. These values will have to be inculcated and social harmony will be established. Humanity is very important in life and it is the soul of all religions." said Pralhad Wamanrao Pai, founder of the Jeevanvidya Mission.

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, founder of The Art of Living, said, The religion keeps people together. But some people plot to create hatred in the name of religion. But we should keep in mind that diversity has essence and god too is essence. Intellectuals become happy due to diversity and fools fight with each other. Diversity has to be accepted in human life. Sarvadharma Samabhav and diversity are unique qualities of India. It is the duty of the religion to solve various disputes and enmity.

Bhikkhu Sanghasena, Founder, Mahabodhi International Meditation Centre, stated, "Whatever is going on in the world is very disturbing and worrisome. Religious violence, war, aggression, hatred and prejudice have ravaged the world. In such a situation, the role of India is very important to make the world understand the importance of non-violence, peace and compassion. The time has come for us to be united and find solutions to the problems of the world.

Haji Syed Salman Chishty of Dargah Ajmer Sharif said, 'Destiny' is basic foundation of all religions. What feeling you are deriving while worshiping your god is important. If any person offers namaz and commits any act which is a blot on humanity, his namaz is of no use. 'Destiny' is the basic foundation of all religions. Damage to the faith of any religion is the greatest crime.

Vijay Darda, Chairman, Lokmat Media Group, said, The Lokmat upheld the importance of secularism right from day one. Its stand has been Sarvadharma Samabhav. No religion is bigger than humanity and we upheld these values. The Lokmat respected all religions and creeds. People have been living together since ages and 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' is the culture of the country. The guidance of Dharmacharyas on social harmony is important in the backdrop of the fundamentals in the current situation that were created in the name of religion.

Rajendra Darda, Editor-in-Chief of the Lokmat Media Group, highlighted, At a time when people are being murdered in the name of religion, the world is looking to India for a solution to this problem. India's responsibility at the global level has increased as it has been following the ideas of non-violence preached by Lord Mahavir, Tathagat Buddha, Guru Gobind Singh and Mahatma Gandhi. Only the path of peace and harmony can save the world.
It is imperative for any food brand to continuously feed consumers with delicious food posts, recipes, trivia, food contests across all social media platforms. Nilons, one of the fastest-growing processed food company took a bold step to celebrate Karvachauth in the most unique manner. The brand decided to extend its support to all the lovely people fasting by archiving all their food posts for the whole day. The campaign #VirtualKarvachauth was conceptualized by Ogilvy. This was an innovative way the platform can stand up to be responsive in moment marketing.

Initially, people who visited the page were baffled to see no post on the feed. The only post that was visible on the feed was talking about the brand extending its support to the people fasting.

Speaking about the campaign Dipak Sanghavi, Managing Director and CEO, Nilons said,  In a multicultural society like India, a brand truly needs to strive towards building a deeper connection with their consumers. At Nilons it has been our constant endeavors to be an integral part of the consumer journey, their celebrations and daily life conversations. Our #VirtualKarvachauth campaign was one such initiative where we have moved away from our usual brand style of capturing moments around food to a contrasting stand of archiving all our food posts and recipes for a whole day to express our solidarity and support to all the lovely couples who were fasting. The overall response from all stakeholders was really encouraging and overwhelming.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nilon's (@nilons_india)

That was not all the campaign was followed by the brand breaking the fast virtually along with the people once the moon was out. All the food posts were Unarchived along with a contest for the consumers asking them to share their Karvachauth experience and memories. The campaign saw support pouring in from all quarters starting with Nilons brand proponent Pankaj Tripathi appreciating the initiative and extending his support and wishes along with many other key influencers. Snapshot and links below
Bombay Jam, a US-based powerhouse of Bollywood dance fitness, is epitomizing their brand essence on social media to propel their reach across the globe.

Pixelfoxa Mumbai-based holistic digital marketing agency and production housebags the digital marketing mandate followed by a yelp of woot!

Bombay Jam has established its footprint in the digital space with a fresh energy that echoes through the dance-fitness arena. Their motive is to facilitate a safe, creative and inclusive space where people feel encouraged to be their best versions. This partnership with Pixelfox progressed organicallywe believe that their entrepreneurial ambition, enthusiasm, and expertise will help us in creating a safe and diverse digital space and change the way fitness is perceived in India, remarked Mona Sampath Khan, the founder of Bombay Jam.

The digital mandate includes all activities on social mediaextending the brand perception down to the digital domain, ranging from social media creatives and content to ORM services and paid promotions.

Bombay Jam is a super fun brand and were thrilled to start this journey of digital transformation with them! Due to the unprecedented times, we're currently in, digital spaces are at the epicenter of our lives and we endeavor to sail the ship together now! said Krutika Vernekarco-founder of Pixelfox.

Amit Damani, the co-founder of Pixelfox, adds, With a dynamic and well-equipped team, were all amped up to devise and deliver end-to-end solutions to maximize reach and connectivity. Our creative foxes are all geared up!
Tanishq has launched a heart-warming campaign Pudhumai Penn exclusively for Tamil Nadu. The women of Tamil Nadu today play dual contrasting roles: of being the culture-custodian and the change-maker of Tamil culture and values. With this campaign, Tanishq taps into this very insight and celebrates every Tamil woman and her balanced-duality, that is the springboard of her undying, limitless and spirited personality.







The Pudhumai Penn of Tamil Nadu is an embodiment of strength, affection, beauty and intellect which truly makes her the torchbearer of tradition and the change maker of today. The campaign beautifully encapsulates their essence as the one who dearly values culture, and is proud of embracing change that impacts the collective good of the society.

The film is conceptualised by Lowe Lintas. Set in a traditional muttram (courtyard) with an oonjal (swing), and aathangudi tiles the 45-second film is drizzled with artefacts symbolic of Tamizh culture, undeniably evoking a strong sense of association, and making every viewer reminisce and recall their ancestry, their childhood, their rich Tamizh roots. The film is a reflection of a Tamil family coming together  from a Thatha-Paati, to a newly married couple, to women across all age groups, and kids running around- it is an all- inclusive film with Tanishq beautifully adorning every moment.



While the vibrant visuals with kuthu vilakku (lamps) cue in a celebratory fervour, the powerful lines of dual verses add a touch of poetry that majestically bring alive the duality of every Pudhumai Penn. True to the Tamil flavour, the music track is punctuated with South-Indian percussive rhythms and layers of instrumentation. In a way, the melody serves as the perfect soundtrack for the coming together of an entire Tamil household as little moments of joy and celebration unfold.



The film is as real as it can get with a carefully curated cast of real women achievers from the land of Tamil Nadu, a Silambam Champion, a classical dancer/entrepreneur, A Padma Bhushan awardee and others, with the Lady Superstar of the South, Nayanthara, leading the pack. All these women are a perfect blend of championing tradition through their art form and giving it their own identity through a contemporary interpretation.



Ranjani Krishnaswamy, GM  Marketing, Tanishq, Titan Company Ltd, said: Tamil Nadu has been integral to Titan and Tanishq. Tamil Nadu has seen many firsts for Tanishq - our Hosur factory commenced in 1992 followed by first store launched at Cathedral Road in 1996. The relationship with Tamil Nadu has only gotten stronger with time with over 5.6 lacs customers who have been ardent patrons of brand. As a brand that has always portrayed the progressive transformative journey of Modern Indian women with immense pride, Tamil Nadu provides a very apt narrative. Many years ago Bharatiyaar called them - Pudhumai Penn, and our attempt was to give a befitting ode to the Pudhhumai Penn of today, who are adding to the pride of Tamil Nadu in their own way.



Sagar Kapoor, Chief Creative Officer, Lowe Lintas, said: We envisioned the campaign as a celebration of the Pudhumai Penn and the duality that she completely owns and flaunts  on one side, as the torchbearer of tradition, on the other, advocating for change. While the visuals cue in a celebratory fervour, the lines we hear flow like Tamil poetry, and the music seamlessly bring the two together. The women of Tamil Nadu have been blazing trails and we wanted this to come out in all glory  which is why weve made it as real as possible with a carefully curated cast of real women achievers from across various fields from Tamil Nadu.
Zimmi.com, a global search engine hub dedicated to helping businesses connect with other businesses and organisations across the world, has handed Pitchfork Partners its India mandate for marketing and communication. With India being a key market, Zimmi wants to expand its operations here. Pitchfork Partners will work closely with Zimmi to build and strengthen the brand.

Zimmi, a US-based company located in Austin, Texas, brings buyers and sellers together through the worlds first exclusive B2B marketplace built to deliver verified global search results through proprietary artificial intelligence (AI) verification. The B2B global search engine will deliver verified results through proprietary AI verification without bias and based on company size, advertising budget, or location. Zimmi's search platform currently hosts more than 20 million verified suppliers from 200 countries with more than 64 million unique searchable keywords which will help Indian exporters reach the global market. By allying with leading credit and data companies around the globe, the search engine can serve the needs of all types of buyers and sellers.

James Thomsen, Co-Founder and CEO: Todays B2B buyers face mounting pressures caused by disruptions across the supply chain. Zimmi enables buyers to cut through the noise and inherent bias of traditional search engines that are built for consumers. We cater to the unique needs of the global B2B ecosystem. We believe that all B2B buyers deserve to procure the best products, services and vendor partnerships on a global scale. The businesses listed on our search engine would be verified by Dun & Bradstreet, the leading global provider of B2B data, insights and AI-driven platforms. Pitchfork Partners shares our passion and beliefs. Its expertise will play a key role in the success of our communication agenda. We see a huge opportunity for sustained growth in India and Pitchfork has the credentials to assist us.

Daniel Malina, Co-Founder and Senior Vice-President: India is one of the worlds fastest-growing economies with MSMEs forming the backbone of this expansion. We are excited to be part of the countrys economic march. We partnered with Pitchfork Partners to communicate our mission and vision to connect sellers in India to verified buyers from 200 countries.

Pitchfork Partners is a strategy consultancy committed to taking care of clients reputations. This is especially important at a time when the COVID-19 pandemic has permanently altered the business landscape, from consumer mobility to media consumption and supply chains. In such a scenario, a brands reputation is its strongest asset. To maintain it, therefore, there is an even greater need to ensure positive experiences for stakeholders. This is why Pitchfork Partners specializes in understanding business needs and aligning communication to business goals, championing reputation building, management and protection. The consultancy sees itself as a reputation warrior, offering bespoke solutions and a team comprising marketing and communication veterans.

Jaideep Shergill, Co-founder, Pitchfork Partners, said: We are excited to partner with Zimmi, which wants to reach out to the Indian audience. Zimmi spans the B2B marketplace, challenging the status quo to bring fair and equal access to all businesses. It is a great opportunity to bridge the gap and help Zimmi achieve its vision through strategic and insights-driven communication.
Armasuisse

Bern, 26.10.2021 - National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger takes part in the NATO Conference of National Armaments Directors with partner countries in Brussels on 26 October 2021. Discussions focus on the possibilities for multilateral cooperation projects in the armaments sector and bilateral meetings with colleagues. In addition, a working visit to the European Defence Agency is on the agenda.

As a partner state of NATO, Switzerland is represented at the Conference of National Armaments Directors (CNAD) by National Armaments Director Martin Sonderegger. The annual conference takes place on 26 October 2021 in Brussels. The annual meeting of CNAD and partners brings together the highest national arms procurement officials in NATO member and partner states. Switzerland participates under the Partnership for Peace (PfP) programme.

The National Armaments Director will also use the opportunity to exchange ideas in person with representatives from Finland, Ireland, Austria and Sweden (the Western European Partners, or WEP-5). In view of current and planned procurements, in particular the decisions on type by the Federal Council in the Air2030 Programme, the intention is that contacts will be maintained and information provided on the current status of work following the virtual meeting in autumn 2020.

In addition, a working visit to the European Defence Agency (EDA), regular meetings with the NATO Communications and Information Agency (NCIA) and an interchange of ideas with the Missions of Switzerland to the EU and NATO are on the agenda.

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In Richmond upon Thames in west London, another area found to be failing, children were waiting too long for autism assessments. Covid had led to further delays in diagnosis.

Of the eight areas visited for the first time, seven were told to produce a written statement of action because of significant areas of weakness in the local areas practice.

UK: The shocking reports detail how vulnerable children and their families are left to fall into crisis before getting help. Youngsters are waiting more than two years for support in some areas, with delays exacerbated by the pandemic, Ofsted found.

Ireland: Families and those working in schools would tell you that provision is still nowhere near adequate in terms of addressing [special ed] students needs.

Staten Island, NY: A new Staten Island charter school opened to students for the first time this fall for the 2021-2022 academic year, offering an inclusive environment for both general education students and students with special needs, particularly those on the autism spectrum .

"There is no other place for a lot of families.  They've been at other schools and not been successful," he said.

Jacksonville, FL: The [autism] school was founded in 1995 by a group of Jacksonville-area parents and business leaders who saw the need.

But local school districts take on the majority of the funding burden. When faced with budget shortfalls, they have to figure out ways to pay for special education, like increasing the number of students with disabilities assigned to a single teacher.

Colorado: Some state legislators and educators fear, however, that even with the increased investment, the state doesnt come close to meeting [special needs] students needs.

Texas: Texas State University and Action Behavior Centers (ABC), a leading provider of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for children with autism, have entered into a strategic partnership through which ABCs employees will have access to a customized graduate ABA degree curriculum at Texas State tailored to meet the growing need for qualified board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) serving children on the autism spectrum.

Amarillo, TX: The opportunity school has a full waiting list and is currently hiring for teachers to help more children.

Scottsdale, AZ: Bierman ABA Autism Center announced the opening of its first Arizona location in Scottsdale.

Here are a few of the very concerning comments found in these stories.

This is now the pattern. Numbers will only get worse. There is nothing we can do to stop it. We need to spend more and more.

Note: One of the lessons of Covid is that the planet - the entire planet - can and will react and make radical changes if scared into, told to, preached at, warned of something that seems dire. Why is it that autism has barely moved the needle despite our two decades of warnings? It's as if someone - someones - declared that autism was never to be shown as a problem but instead as a version of neurodiversity. Cure was disallowed. Treatment limited only to behavioral and educational models. Grants only for genetics studies. Anne Dachel has been writing about the explosion in the need for special education services for years. Her site Loss of Brain Trust has thousands of reports. By Anne Dachel This past week we were again overwhelmed by stories from England along with ones from Ireland, the U.S. and Australia, even Israelall of which describe never-ending increases in students with disabilities, specifically ones with autism, in their schools.

In Warwickshire, waiting times for autism assessments and services for those awaiting assessments or support were one of five serious weaknesses exposed in a September report.

While autism was identified early in primary school, children often failed to get the required support until secondary school. It left too many families  struggling to cope....

UK: We have a lot of Send (special educational needs and disabilities) children and they cannot have access to the really important services that we need.

A lot of nurseries are at risk of closure. We are seeing more and more children come through our doors with high levels of Send, especially over Covid, they havent had that early intervention.

UK: Hayley Harding, 38, who co-founded the group with three other mothers, said too many local authorities are not providing support to which disabled children are entitled.

UK: A former Norfolk teacher, who fears there are "huge and unforgiveable" shortfalls in provision for children with special educational needs, is to hand deliver a letter calling for action to Downing Street.

He said there have also been instances where the process of providing education, health and care plans for children with special educational needs has taken more than two years.

Swindon, UK: While we are seeing more and more children exhibiting complex needs, we see cutting resources.

Lewes, UK: The council says the move comes as the centres numbers have been under capacity since 2019/20, while at the same time there has been an increase in the numbers of children with a primary need of autism spectrum conditions.

Wales, UK: A former school boarding house will be converted into supported living flats for people with challenging behaviour  despite residents objecting.

The residents are to be supervised 24/7, and if they are allowed out of their apartments, they are often supervised two to one. They are kept secure. They have to be because we find the residents have serious challenging behaviour. That is behaviour where the physical safety of the person or others is placed in serious jeopardy.

There is no disagreement that these facilities are required, but government guidance acknowledges they should be placed in places where they will not be a nuisance to neighbours.

We look at the danger to others, but they are more a danger to themselves, and theyve got to go somewhere.

Birmingham, UK: The government is sending a commissioner to take over special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) services in Birmingham, after the city council failed to remedy significant weaknesses.

In the first intervention of its kind,

Portsmouth, UK: Thinking Schools Academy Trust announced the Rainbow Fish Inclusion Centre open on Friday, October 15.

This space will provide state-of-the-art facilities for children with special educational needs (SEN) and/or disabilities (SEND) across the city.

Lewes, UK: Plans to open up a special education centre in Lewes to a wider range of pupils have been given the go ahead by a senior county councillor.

The council says the move comes as the centres numbers have been under capacity since 2019/20, while at the same time there has been an increase in the numbers of children with a primary need of autism spectrum conditions.

Enfield, UK: Enfield Council is looking to develop new school buildings for children with special educational needs and disabilities (Send) to meet growing demand.

The council is drawing up a viability study to examine the potential of four sites in Enfield that could be used to build Send school buildings.

According to a council report, there has been a significant increase in Send provision during recent years, with the town hall putting in extra resources and commissioning designated units within mainstream schools.

But the report adds that because of a limited capacity to expand existing SEN schools, the council wants to establish brand new provision on a scale that would make a significant contribution to addressing demand.

Basingstoke, UK: A new school in Basingstoke which caters for children with autism has opened.

We are thrilled to welcome them

Lake Macquarie, Australia: A new independent school is set be built at Lake Macquarie as demand grows in the Hunter for autism-specific education.

With a long waiting list for places at its existing sites, Aspect is hoping to be able to reach out to more families.

All of our Send schools are pretty much at capacity. We have extended them all, pretty much, to this point.

Here are statistics that are randomly put out there without explanation:

Colorado: Colorados budget for the current fiscal year includes approximately $220 million for students with disabilities. Thats on top of the states $198 million in federal grant funds for special education and early intervention

Ireland: Funding is provided for 1,165 additional special needs assistants to provide support to children with special educational needs, bringing the total number of SNAs to almost 19,200.

Minster Foley said: I am delighted that we could secure the largest budget for special education that we have ever had. This will include an unprecedented 1165 new SNAs, bringing the total number of SNAs in Ireland to a record of over 19,000. We are also adding almost 1,000 new teachers in special education in mainstream schools, special classes and special schools.

The special education funding for 2022 is over a quarter of the current expenditure budget for the Department of Education. This represents an increase of over 50 per cent since 2011.

As a result, the number of special classes will be the highest ever, at just over 2,400 in schools throughout the country

Rotherham, UK: The [special] school currently has 159 pupils enrolled  above its capacity of 120 pupils. A new secondary and post 16 site of Newman School will be created at the old Dinnington College site, which will provide space for 180 pupils.

It is hoped having the specialist school in Rotherham will help the 290 children who have been assessed as needing SEMH education in the last 18 months, as a lack of provision means they often have to travel to out-of-borough placement.

Portsmouth, UK: The centre is part of Portsmouth City Councils 3.5 million [$4.8M] investment initiative to provide inclusive education in the city. Eight places at the centre are being funded by the local authority, which will grow to 16 places next academic year.

Yorkshire, UK: Due to the rate of increase in identifying children with [Special Educational Needs and Disabilities] SEND in the County, the number of children and young people with Education and Health Care Plans (EHCP) has more than doubled since 2014 to about 3,700.

This growth is expected to continue, with the number of children and young people with an Educational Health Care Plan expected to be more than 4,100 by 2025.

Bristol, UK: Following Ofsted recommendations, Bristol City Council plans to invest 16.5 million [$23M] over the next five years to make schools more inclusive for pupils with SEND (special educational needs and disabilities) and other at risk groups.

"We have also committed over 28m [$39M] of investment across the city to deliver much needed additional special school places and increased the number of specialist provision placements for the autumn 2021 term by 82."Work is also continuing with education settings in Bristol to deliver up to a total of 250 new placements over the coming academic year.''

Enfield, UK: The report reveals the proportion of Enfield pupils on education, health and care plans (EHCPs)  which provide extra support for those with special educational needs  has increased at a higher rate than the national average and grew from 3,262 to 3,783 during the past year.

It adds that more than 600 children are currently being educated out of the borough, which is putting pressure on budgets....

The council also hopes to raise more money to invest in Send provision by selling off vacant school caretakers houses. It is investing 1m [$1.4M] in speech, language and communication needs and autism to enable early intervention and reduce the number of EHCPs....

Basingstoke, UK: The Austen academy in Shakespeare Road has 128 students aged from 5 through to 16 and is the first school in the area designed specifically for children with the [autism] diagnosis. 

Israel: The number of Israeli children registered for special-education classes this school year increased 50 percent from last year, as the number of students mainstreamed into general educational settings declined by 20 percent.

The number of Israeli students diagnosed with disabilities has been growing every year.

As of this year, some 296,000 children are diagnosed as disabled out of the 2.5 million Israeli children aged from kindergarten through 12th grade. The percentage growth of diagnoses is outpacing population growth.

About half of the children have been diagnosed with a learning disability of some kind, while the remainder have disabilities including autism, mental disorders, physical disabilities, intellectual disabilities and hearing or vision disorders.

Geraldton, Australia: The spaces, which include a portable work pod and a relaxation room, are part of the Geraldton Lighthouse Project; a $2.6 million [$2M] partnership between four Geraldton schools, aimed at improving educational and social outcomes for students with autism through tailor-made programs and facilities.

More than 200 children with autism are currently enrolled in public schools in Geraldton, with more students waiting to be assessed.

Nine schools in Geraldton have modified areas for students with autism, with some utilising large spaces for sensory activities and therapy programs.
Dear Michael: We have been holding off on our estate planning  waiting to see what the government is going to do about new taxes. We would like to know what the tax implications are going to be before we go ahead with our planning. Do you think this is the right strategy?  Waiting On Government.

Dear Waiting on Government: As you can well imagine, I have been just as frustrated as you are about the delays in how this government is going to run and how they are going to tax people to pay for it.

The only thing I do know is, when I look at the Debt Clock for America and where we are heading, it is not about if there are going to be new taxes, but how much.

It makes one wonder, sometimes, if having this vote regarding the budget being delayed until December, or Janet Yellen, head of the U.S. Treasury, announcing we will run out of money by Oct. 18, or the last-second agreement to keep the government funded, all has a deeper meaning?

Is it an attempt to make many of us understand how truly dire the situation really is? So dire, in fact, that both sides will have to come to an agreement about taxes and, therefore, neither sides re-election bid is damaged?

One thing we can state for certain  our country cannot maintain as is without raising revenues.

If you are planning your estate, the best idea is to forge ahead because, while the world waits and holds its breath, people are still dying  suddenly and tragically.

This is, by far, the most crucial time to plan for the worst and hope for the best in your estate plan. Based on certain economic principals, your chances of the worst happening are higher than the best happening. Therefore, a strong estate plan is your best defense right now. Those who wait to see how big the wave is going to be are typically those washed out to sea.
A Nebraska producer will serve as the new president and chairman o the American Angus Association board.
GLENDIVE, Mont.  Agriculture seminars are always well attended at the GATE, a show that supports and promotes agriculture in the eastern Mont
MONROE, Wis.  Demand is outpacing supply for sheep-milk cheese as more consumers nationwide experience its unique taste. Cheesemaker members of the Sheep Dairy Association of Wisconsin have done an excellent job of marketing those cheese products. Many of them provided samples of their success to sheep-producer members at a recent gathering at Ms. J and Co. near Monroe.

Having the producers and processors together is a real plus, said Dave Thomas, University of Wisconsin-Madison professor emeritus of sheep management and genetics.

The Sheep Dairy Association of Wisconsin was formed by sheep producers, cheesemakers and cheesemongers to keep Wisconsin the dairy-sheep industrys leader. The association promotes the industry and provides educational outreach at numerous events including June Dairy Month breakfasts.

Tony Hook, owner of Hooks Cheese Company in Mineral Point, Wisconsin, provided samples of his companys Little Boy Blue. Its a blue cheese made from sheep milk produced in southwestern Wisconsin.

Hooks Cheese started in 2009 making Little Boy Blue  its first sheep-milk cheese. The company won first place for that cheese at the American Cheese Society Competition in 2011, 2014 and 2016. Little Boy Blue also won second place at the same societys 2012, 2017 and 2019 competitions.

We started making sheep-milk cheese because we wanted to branch out from making just cow-milk cheese, Hook said. Naturally it will take time to grow the (sheep-milk-cheese) market. Most individuals in the United States dont realize there are a number of very good sheep-milk cheeses produced in Wisconsin. And many individuals dont even realize there are milking sheep. Since sheep dont produce a lot of milk, sheep-milk-cheese producers must charge a higher comparable price for their cheese. So it takes a lot of sampling to get customers to try it and buy it.
Electing a new president hasnt happened very often in recent Minnesota Farm Bureau Federation (MFBF) history.

The state organization has only elected three presidents over the last 44 years  Merlyn Lokensgard, Nicollet County (11 years); Al Christopherson, Kandiyohi County (17 years); and Kevin Paap, Blue Earth County (16 years).

So with President Paap announcing he will not seek re-election in November 2021, electing a new president is significant for Minnesotas largest farm organization.

The election is Nov. 19, 2021, during the MFBF annual meeting, said Karin Schaefer, MFBF executive director.

The candidates will be elected by the voting delegates from each county or regional Farm Bureau, she said. At this time, we are planning and preparing to meet in person for this meeting.

Any voting member in good standing with their county Farm Bureau and actively engaged in farming can run for a position on the MFBF Board of Directors, including president and vice president.

There is no filing deadline.

Candidates will be nominated on the Voting Delegate floor on Nov. 19.

So far, two candidates, current Vice President Dan Glessing, and District 7 Director Shayne Isane, are running for president.

On the executive board of MFBF, Schaefer, as executive director, serves as secretary, and Dave Johnson, director of operations, serves as treasurer. Both of these are MFBF salaried employees.

The remaining members of the executive board and board of directors are volunteers, but they receive a per diem.
American farmers and ranchers survived an unprecedented year in 2020, and the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic continued on into 2021. While the biggest side effect from the global crises in 2020 included the processing, shipping, and selling of end-use agriculture products, that particular issue has begun to resolve itself the deeper we get into 2021.

The tides have turned however, and instead of facing supply chain issues at the end of their production year, farmers are now facing chemical and fertilizer shortages at the beginning of their production year. The timing could not be worse, especially across the Northern Great Plains as winter wheat and fallow acres are being worked.

We are seeing tight supplies amidst high demand, and inadvertently, we are seeing high prices, said Karissa Floerchinger, product manager for Helena Agri-Enterprises in Helena, Mont.

Glyphosate is one agrochemical of particular importance to area growers that is currently seeing pinched supplies. Bayers glyphosate manufacturing plant is in Louisiana, so while backlogged cargo ships and labor shortages have certainly been an issue this year, Floerchinger pointed out the real blow to Roundup supplies came when Hurricane Ida hit the Gulf Coast in late August.

The storm ultimately caused Bayers plant to shut down and the lull in production just further complicated an already disrupted supply chain.

Looking specifically at states in Northern Great Plains and Upper Midwest, Floerchinger says limited supplies can be directly linked to trucking shortages.
One of the four owners of the Club West Golf Course said he and his partners will seek talks
https://www.aish.com/tp/i/moha/A-Match-for-Yitzchak.html

Many years earlier, God had told Avraham that his descendants would be strangers in a land not their own.1 While this exile would unfold years later in the Land of Egypt, the description is just as apt for an earlier time as well: The Land of Canaan, the land that God promised would be inherited by his descendants, was a land where Avraham himself was a stranger.2

Perhaps Avraham had never felt these words as acutely as he did now. His wife had died, and as an immigrant he not only had no ancestral burial ground, he owned no suitable plot of land. He had no place to bury Sarah. Only as a result of a great deal of negotiation and large sums of money changing hands was Avraham able to acquire a suitable piece of property and give his wife a proper burial. Avraham was forced to overpay in order to acquire a parcel of land that had been promised to him by God.

His strangeness in this land is further highlighted by the lack of an appropriate match for his son. Rather than looking for a local girl, he sends his servant to a far-away destination to find an appropriate spouse for Yitzchak.

Tradition tells us that the name of Avrahams servant was Eliezer, based on what we might describe as a theory of preservation of characters. Earlier in his life, Avraham lamented the fact that he and Sarah were childless and gave voice to his distress over the prospect that the only one who would inherit his legacy would be his majordomo, the head of his household staff  a man named Eliezer.3

Since that point, Avraham had produced two sons: Yishmael, who had been ousted, and Yitzchak, his true heir. Now, the erstwhile potential heir, Eliezer, has been returned to his natural status, and is once again merely household help. Avraham sends him on a critical mission  to find a suitable match for Yitzchak.

Various midrashic passages provide more background information about Eliezer, identifying him as being related in one way or another to Avrahams arch-nemesis, Nimrod  either as a former servant of Nimrod4, or as Nimrods son or grandson.5

When the time comes to find a wife for Yitzchak, this person  whoever he is, whoever he once was  is entrusted with the mission of securing Avrahams legacy, and according to the midrashic account, he suggests his own daughter for his masters son. When his proposal is rebuffed, he sets out on his mission6  and we might wonder whether his efforts were wholehearted: Would he, as a faithful servant, make his best effort to find a wife for Yitzchak from far afield, or would he prefer to fail, forcing Avraham to resort to his earlier suggestion and settle for Eliezers daughter by default?

These two possibilities color our reading of what transpires when the servant arrives at his destination:

(12) He said, Eternal God, the God of my master Avraham, please give me success this day, and show kindness to my master Avraham. (13) Behold, I am standing by the spring of water. The daughters of the men of the city are coming out to draw water. (14) Let it happen, that the young lady to whom I will say, Please let down your pitcher, that I may drink, and she will say, Drink, and I will also give your camels a drink, let her be the one you have appointed for your servant Yitzchak. By this I will know that you have shown kindness to my master. (Bereishit 24:12-14)

This is a prayer  and it may be read either as tainted by tremendous cynicism or as a testimony of his great faith: Not only does he challenge God and create a very specific test for a potential bride, he stipulates an almost impossible timeline:

(11) He made the camels kneel down outside the city by the well of water at the time of evening, the time that women go out to draw water. (Bereishit 24:11)

He arrives in the evening and prays that God should show compassion for Avraham today. With the sun about to set, we wonder how this request can possibly be fulfilled. To compound matters, the cantillation symbol (the traditional trup or taamei haMikra indicating the parsing and reading instructions for the Torah text) on the word vayomar (he said), with which this prayer is introduced, has a shalshelet ( ) indicating that this word is read in the most deliberate, most drawn-out manner of all, understood by many commentaries as an indication of hesitation or internal conflict. Our quandary remains: Does the servant hope to fail, and therefore provides only the smallest possible window for success, or is he so certain that God can and will do miraculous things for Avraham that the time constraints and probabilities are of no concern?

Either way, we should have no doubt why the sages identified the servant with Eliezer: This man truly lives up to the name which translates, quite literally, as my God helps; through him, God expresses His love for Avraham by immediately providing a wife for Yitzchak. By helping the servant, God helps the master7  which is precisely the content of the servants prayer.

Rabbinic tradition suggests that this is a remarkable insight into life in the tent of Avraham, a snapshot of the household.8 The servant  Eliezer  has repeatedly seen miraculous things; in the life of Avraham, the impossible is not only possible, it is quite probable. Eliezer has seen Avraham walk out of the furnace; he has seen Avraham emerge victorious from the war of the kings. From his vantage point as an observer of Avrahams life, the task with which he himself has been entrusted is, in a sense, an easy task. Eliezer had every expectation that God would help him to help Avraham, and enable him to fulfill his mission immediately so that he could return to Avraham with an appropriate bride to carry Avrahams legacy forward.

The specifics of the test or task he sets up are no less instructive: He asks for Gods assistance in finding a young woman who will perform an act of unusual kindness, because only a person with an affinity for hesed9 could possibly join Avrahams family, in which hesed is such an integral component.10

You have proven that it is she  She is fit for him since she will perform acts of kindness and will therefore be worthy of admission into the house of Avraham. (Rashi, Bereishit 24:12)

In a certain sense, the fact that Avraham sent his servant back to his hometown11 indicated that the successful candidate should be very Avraham-like.12 It should therefore come as no surprise when Rivka chooses to accompany the man back to Canaan; it is clear to all concerned that God had chosen her,13 and she is willing to leave her land, her family and her birthplace with Avraham-like resolve. Aside from the family connection, her behavior, her outlook, her essence, were Avrahamic.14

Avraham had made it very clear that he would not consider a Canaanite woman for his son; he had commanded the servant to find someone from Avrahams extended family.15 What, we might ask, would have happened had Rivka declined? Were there other potential candidates who could have met the job description? The servant raises this issue in his discussion with Rivkas family:

And now, if you mean to treat my master with kindness and truth  tell me; and if not, tell me, that I may turn to the right or to the left. (Bereishit 24:49) TO THE RIGHT  to take a wife from the daughters of Yishmael. TO THE LEFT  to take a wife from the daughters of Lot who dwelt to the left of Avraham. (Rashi, Bereishit 24: 49)

Rashi, based on the Midrash,16 understood that the servant was referring to other potential matches who met some, if not all, of the criteria: the daughters of Lot and Yishmael.

Interestingly, in an earlier comment, Rashi refers to a completely different set of alternative candidates  the daughters of Avrahams comrades Aner, Eshkol and Mamre who were not from Avrahams extended family  and does not consider the daughters of Lot or Yishmael.

THEN YOU WILL BE ABSOLVED OF THIS OATH YOU HAVE MADE TO ME  and take a wife for him from the daughters of Aner or Eshkol or Mamre. 17 (Rashi, Bereishit 24:8)

Despite the apparent suitability of members of the extended family, who ostensibly fit some of the criteria, in reality these candidates fall short of the mark. Apparently, to be truly suitable, the quality of hesed was not the sole criterion. To be a suitable wife for Yitzchak, the young woman would also need proper appreciation of Avraham and Sarah.

Yishmael did not value Sarah; this lack of regard began with his mother, from the moment Yishmael was conceived:

He went in to Hagar, and she conceived. When she saw that she had conceived, her mistress was diminished in her eyes. (Bereishit 16:4) HER MISTRESS WAS DIMINISHED IN HER EYES  She said, "As regards this woman Sarai, her conduct in private certainly can not be what it appears to be in public: she pretends to be a righteous woman, but she cannot really be righteous since all these years she has not been privileged to have children, whilst I have had that blessing from the first union" (Bereishit Rabbah 45:4).

Hagar claimed that Sarah was an imposter, that she feigned righteousness but was in fact devoid of holiness. Hagars proof was her own fertility  one night with Avraham and she produced an heir for Avraham, which Sarah was unable to do for so many years. Hagar created an unfounded correlation between fertility and righteousness, claiming that the real Sarah  the person below the veneer of piety  was empty, corrupt, unworthy.

The Kabbalistic description of this phenomenon is called a klipah (literally, a shell or husk), a pretender, a profane shadow or echo of holiness, a cheap imitation of the real thing.

Hagars son Yishmael is cut from the same cloth as his mother; both display this klipah of hesed:

Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, whom she had borne to Avraham, mocking. (Bereishit 21:9) Another explanation is that it refers to immoral sexual conduct, just as it says (in reference to Potiphar's wife), "To mock at me." (Bereishit 39:17) (Rashi Bereishit 21:9)

Yishamels mocking or laughter of is related to immoral sexual practices, as is evidenced by other uses of this word.18 But what exactly was Yishmael guilty of in this instance? Some commentaries accuse him of exploiting his fathers elevated philosophy of love and caring, turning it into a cheap pickup line to snare unsuspecting women among Avrahams students who wished to practice hesed. Yishmael was the klipa of hesed;  rather than practicing loving-kindness, he espoused free love.19

Rabbi Akiva taught: AND SARAH SAW [THE SON OF HAGAR THE EGYPTIAN, WHOM SHE HAD BORNE TO AVRAHAM, MAKING SPORT.] Now 'making sport' refers to nothing else but sexual immorality, as in the verse, "The Hebrew servant, whom you have brought to us, came in to make sport of me. (Bereishit 39:17) This teaches that Sarah saw Yishmael ravish maidens, seduce married women and dishonor them. (Bereishit Rabbah 53:11)

Elsewhere, Rashi notes the midrashic account of the mean-spirited laughter and insinuations after the birth of Yitzchak, as jokesters questioned Avrahams paternity.

AVRAHAM BEGAT YITZCHAK  Just as Scripture wrote, "Yitzchak, son of Avraham" it felt compelled to say "Avraham begat Yitzchak", because the cynics of that time said, "Sarah became pregnant by Avimelech. See how many years she lived with Avraham without becoming pregnant from him." What did the Holy One, blessed be He, do? He formed Yitzchaks facial features exactly like Avraham's, so that everyone had to admit that Avraham fathered Yitzchak. This is what is stated here: Yitzchak was the son of Avraham, for there is evidence that Avraham fathered Yitzchak (Midrash Tanchuma, Toldot 1). (Rashi, Bereishit 25:19)

Apparently Yishmael found this idle gossip amusing (or self-serving), and repeated it:

She assumed that the reason Yishmael made these disparaging remarks [about Yitzchak] was because he heard them from his mother. Our sages have a saying (Sukkah 56) that the prattle of children in public reflects either what they picked up from their father or what they picked up from their mother. [Sarah heard Yishmael mocking]: Making fun of the feast in Avrahams home, Yishmael claimed that surely Sarah must have become pregnant from Avimelech. The reason he had not made such remarks already at the time Yitzchok was born, was because he had only overheard wicked gossip about this at a later stage, and now he repeated what he had heard; if he had said these things at the time of Yitzchaks birth, Sarah was unaware of it, as she was preoccupied with the birth. (Seforno 21:90) 20

There are two sides of the coin of holiness; both involve giving to others, both are called hesed, but one is real while the other is counterfeit:

(17) If a man takes his sister, his fathers daughter, or his mothers daughter, and sees her nakedness, and she sees his nakedness; it is hesed; and they shall be cut off in the sight of the children of their people: he has uncovered his sisters nakedness; he shall bear his iniquity. (Vayikra 20:17)

Illicit, incestual relationships are also labeled by the Torah as a type of hesed  albeit the artificial, unholy kind.21

This will help explain why another possible source for a mate was rejected. The daughters of Lot are also members of Avrahams extended family. According to tradition, not only is Lot Avrahams nephew, he is also Sarahs brother, making him Avrahams brother-in-law; this dual relationship should make Lot and his family the perfect place to search for a bride for Yitzchak.

One wonders if Rivkas brother Lavan, who somehow insinuates himself into the middle of things, is worried that the unexpected visit by a representative of a long-lost family member was nothing more than a ruse, disguised as a marriage proposal, to lay claim to the family inheritance. Ironically, in the next generation, the son of Rivka and Yitzchak returns and does precisely that: Yaakov eventually walks off with all of Lavans wealth.

It is worth noting that Rivkahs father Betuel was the son of Milkah and Nahor.22 Nahor was Avrahams brother, while Milkah was Lots sister, Avrahams niece (and, according to tradition, Milkah and Lot had a third sibling  Sarah).23 Rivka was related to both Avraham and Sarah, which would make her a perfect candidate.

Lot, like Rivka and Avraham, also practices hesed, but his hesed is tainted. When the marauding mob of Sodomites besieges his home demanding that he surrender his guests, Lot offers up his daughters to placate the crowd, confusing true hesed with warped sexuality.

After Sodom is laid to waste, Lots daughters follow in the fathers footsteps, practicing a confused form of hesed by committing incest with their father. Their behavior  but even more so the warped philosophy that motivates and animates them, will ultimately place them beyond the pale; they and their descendants will not re-join the family of Avraham. They believe that the destruction from which they were saved was total and complete; to their minds, only they and their father survive, and the only way to reproduce and save humanity is through their father. However, this world view is based on a fatal error: How could they have imagined that Avraham, their righteous uncle who had removed himself from the influence of Sodom, was also wiped out along with their wicked neighbors? This is the precise inverse of Avrahams outlook: When told of the impending destruction, Avraham pleads with God, assuming that there most be more righteous people in the world, and at least a handful of people worth saving in Sodom  but when Sodom is destroyed, it never occurs to the daughters of Lot that there are any righteous people who were spared. They never considered that Avraham had survived, when in fact they themselves had been saved only in the merit of Avraham.24 The world view which they had inherited from their father was distorted; Avraham, the greatest man of the generation, had been edited out of their family lore.

Just as Hagar underestimated Sarah, the daughters of Lot underestimated Avraham. The bride of Yitzchak could not come from either of these branches of the family.

Only Rivka, a person of true hesed, takes a leap of faith; like Avraham and Sarah, she leaves her birthplace, her home and family, to join the family of Avraham. She alone appreciated the greatness of Avraham and Sarah and was willing to be a part of the journey they had embarked on years earlier and to re-join that branch of the family. She was, in every way, the perfect match for Yitzchak.
The FDA is meeting on October 26th to give advice to parents on vaccination for children ages 5-12 and the Biden administration is poised to roll out vaccines for this age group for COVID-19. Is this a good idea and what information do parents need to make this decision for their kids?

I am not a pediatrician -- I am a recently retired Internal Medicine doctor. I am not an anti-vaxxer. I have taken all the vaccines that have gone through the usual approval protocol for my age group. I have prescribed vaccines for adult patients for 35 years. I am a parent and have thought about the vaccination of children even though my children are grown and making their own decisions now. If I were making this decision, there are several questions that I would ask before agreeing to a COVID-19 vaccination for my child.

What is the risk of my child getting seriously ill or dying from COVID-19?

COVID-19 mortality is not the same for all ages and the average age of someone dying from COVID-19 is 79 years old. For ages 0-19, the survival rate is 99.9973%. This means that for age 0-19 there will be one death for every 37,000 infections. Sweden, population 10 million, chose not to use masks, had no lockdowns, and did not close schools and had a low rate of infection for children and no deaths. A widely circulated article in the NY Times last month claimed falsely that 900,000 children have been hospitalized since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The actual number was 63,000 , and even this number comes into question as the FDA/CDC have admitted we have a faulty PCR test for COVID-19 that has many false positives . Dr. Marty Makary and FAIRHealth analyzed health insurance claims and found that all the deaths of children at the time (about 335) were children who had chronic medical conditions and no healthy children had died from COVID-19. A rare post COVID-19 illness of excessive inflammation including myocarditis called MIS-C has affected 5,000 mostly healthy children with a mortality rate of less than 1% (46 children died)

Will my child spread the virus to teachers/me/grandma/grandpa?

An article by Benjamin Lee and William V. Raszka in Pediatrics found that in the first six months of the pandemic children were not the cause of most spread of COVID-19. The study cited above about Sweden also found that keeping the schools open did not lead to more illness in teachers during the pandemic. It seems that children spread COVID-19 less than adults.

How long does the vaccine last? Will my child need boosters?

Data coming in from England and Israel, countries with very high adult vaccination rates, shows the vaccine efficacy is wearing off over six months. It also appears the initial mRNA vaccines worked well against the original alpha strain, but is not working very well on the Delta strain, which is dominant now. Israel has already embarked on an aggressive 3rd booster for adults.

It is likely that this schedule will be the same for children.

Is the vaccine safe to take? What are the short-term side effects I might expect?

As a parent you must get all information about side effects in order to give informed consent for your child's medical treatment. The best window into possible side effects is the VAERS system, which is a self-reporting system for vaccine side effects. Please go to this database and read about the side effects that adults have recorded as possibly being related to the vaccine. This information is not being reported by the media/FDA/CDC/our government and is essential to making a good decision for your child. For adults so far there have been 16,000 deaths and 700,000 adverse events recorded after the vaccine. These adverse events include blood clots, neurologic injury, and menstrual irregularities. The VAERS system is widely believed to underreport these adverse events by a factor of at least 10. For age 12-17 there have been 22 deaths and 21,000 adverse events reported. In the late teens and twenties, 111 deaths have occurred related to the COVID-19 vaccine. Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) is a known side effect of the vaccines and can permanently damage the heart. One recent study showed teenage boys were four times more likely to be diagnosed with myocarditis than be hospitalized with COVID-19. Finland, Sweden, Norway, and Denmark are not giving Moderna vaccination in young adults due to concerns about myocarditis. Iceland has stopped using Moderna vaccine in all adults due to similar concerns.

What are the long-term side effects of the vaccine for my child that I could expect?

This is one of the main problems -- we don't know. mRNA vaccine have never been used on a human population before for any length of time. They are a brand-new technology made by Operation WarpSpeed to get out the vaccines quickly. The first use was last December so there has been only ten months of actual use. Vaccines approved in the usual fashion take 5-7 years of study to make sure they have long-term safety. Both the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines are used under emergency authorization only. The FDA did approve a vaccine for COVID-19 about two months ago called Comirnaty. Strangely, this vaccine is not available in the U.S., as this approved vaccine would have legal liability. As a parent you also need to be aware that if your child does have a reaction to one of these experimental vaccines, there will be no legal recourse. Our government has protected the pharmaceutical companies from any legal liability from these experimental vaccines under the PREP act.

In my opinion, the government, mainstream media, and pharmaceutical companies have overestimated the danger of COVID-19 infection in children inducing fear and underreported the risks of the vaccines. I would not give these new mRNA vaccines to my healthy child because:

1) The risk of serious health problems from COVID-19 infection in healthy children is very low.

2) If your child is chronically ill, obese, diabetic, immuno-compromised consider using the vaccine.

3) There can be serious short term side effects in children from the vaccine. Several countries have stopped using some of these vaccines in children.

4) The vaccines are less effective against the now dominant Delta strain.

5) The vaccine effect wears off in months and my child will likely have boosters once or twice a year increasing the risk of side effects.

6) The long-term side effects are not known and with many years of life left, children may have long term problems not even known now.

A COVID vaccination involves a very different decision than 'does my child need a tetanus shot or an MMR to go to school.' Please be assertive and get a second and third opinion and ask your provider questions.

Image: Pixabay

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Thousands of people are challenging the vaccine mandates. For them the get shot or get fired ultimatum is a bridge too far. Southwest Airlines recently discovered that such pressure isnt working when they had to cancel a lot of flights because they didnt have staff. Locations with Lockdown Lefty Lunatics in charge are losing people. Over a thousand people a day are moving to the Free State of Florida where mandates are strongly discouraged. But federal courts are ruling in favor of mandates right and left. Why?

Welcome to the Supreme Court. In 1905 (Jacobsen v. Massachusetts, 197 US 11) the Court ruled that the state could require citizens to get a smallpox vaccination. This case is being used as a blanket authority for every vaccine mandate to be approved. And as the Bard said, Aye, theres the rub. If the term vaccine is all thats considered, no one has a prayer in court. But if we can pry a few layers off that onion, there is a clear way to show that Jacobsen is not a precedent that any lower court should consider.

Smallpox is a very contagious disease with up to 20% mortality. Its spread by contact, so an infected person can easily give someone else a deadly disease. This was a clear public health issue in 1904. At that time vaccination involved administering an orthopox virus that created powerful smallpox immunity without making the individual sick. Thus, the mandate was in fact a de minimus burden on the recipients freedom with a significant probability of preventing the illness of another person. This tells us where we must look.

COVID-19 is spread by aerosols, not contact. It is therefore not comparable to smallpox unless COVID-19 vaccinations in fact prevent the spread of COVID-19 from a vaccinated person to an unvaccinated person. But they do not and cannot. We now know that fully vaccinated and immune persons can be infected and exhale just as much active virus as persons ill with the disease. This sounds like nonsense, but has a very solid medical basis.

Because COVID-19 is spread by aerosol, infected aerosols are breathed in by nearby people, regardless of their immune status. Those aerosols come in contact with pneumocytes, the structural cells of the alveoli (air sacs). The virus attaches to the ACE2 receptor and enters the cell where it multiplies. It is then released by the cell, mostly into the alveolus, where it is exhaled as a water vapor aerosol. The individuals immunity is not involved, since antibodies and killer T-cells live in the bloodstream on the other side of the alveolar basement membrane. Those antibodies and T-cells mop up viruses that the pneumocytes release across the basement membrane, preventing illness.

Lets make this so simple even a federal judge can understand it. Smallpox spreads by contact. Immunity to smallpox prevents illness, curtailing transmission. COVID-19 spreads by aerosols. Immunity to COVID-19 prevents illness, but does not reduce the probability of an immunized person transmitting the disease. In short, the fundamental rationale for Jacobsen does not apply to COVID-19.

The Left will cry that masks will stop the spread. But thats not about vaccination! And they will bring out data showing that, in the lab, various masks reduce the spread of aerosols by 30%. Unfortunately for them, when we look at population data, lab results simply do not translate to the real world. Mask mandates have been proven to have zero effect on population-level transmission of COVID-19. They may actually make the situation worse. And we cannot let a prosecutor bring forward data that N95s eliminate infection in health-care workers. This is exposure control, where the individual protects himself. Jacobsen is about source control, where my immunity might protect you.

At this point one might suggest that the case has been won, but we cant stop by proving that COVID-19 vaccination doesnt work for the purpose in Jacobsen. We must now proceed to the affirmative case that vaccination is bad. Vaccination is a medical procedure that involves more risk than simply taking your temperature.

All three of the vaccines expose a person to the spike protein. Pfizer and Moderna use mRNA to get the body to make it, while Johnson & Johnson attaches it to a crippled adenovirus. This turns out to be a horrible mistake. The spike protein is the key viral part that causes the disease. Spontaneous abortions, myocarditis, and sudden death are just part of its effects. With thousands of reported deaths following the vaccine in a system that the CDC states only captures 1% of the data, a huge number of people have had incredibly bad effects from the shots.

Informed consent requires that a patient be informed of the risks, benefits, and alternatives of a medical treatment. Since the Despots of Disease claim that vaccines are safe, we can confidently say that they are lying. Informed consent is meaningless when were falsely informed. And in the same vein, the benefits are overstated. As weve seen, the idea that the Fauci shot stops disease transmission is blatantly false. It doesnt even protect me that well. The push for rapid and perpetual boosters are a tacit admission that it doesnt work very well at all.

Finally, the question of alternatives must be presented to the court. The Despots of Disease have firmly stated that the vaccines are the only way we can ever have a safe society. They have actively suppressed, by threats to medical licenses and hospital privileges, any suggestion that Hydroxychloroquine or Ivermectin might be of benefit in stamping out the illness. Public pronouncements about horse dewormer have been used to demean people who actually study the data. Fortunately for the 241 million people of Uttar Pradesh, India, they didnt have to fight the U.S. government, and an $8 course of treatment eliminated the Delta variant with zero side effects.

Overcoming the Jacobsen precedent should be an exercise in simplicity. Jacobsen was forced to accept a vaccine that had proven ability to stop the transmission of a deadly disease in exchange for a de minimus medical therapy. The COVID vaccines do not and cannot prevent transmission of this airborne disease which has a mortality rate no worse than seasonal flu. And they are by no means de minimus. more people, according to VAERS, have died after getting the shot in four months during a single vaccination campaign than from all other vaccines combined over more than a decade and a half. To conclude, we have excellent, inexpensive, non-toxic, and highly effective therapies that the Despots of Disease are suppressing.

In short, COVID-19 vaccines are in no way comparable to smallpox vaccines. Jacobsen should not be considered a legal precedent for COVID-19 vaccine mandates.

Ted Noel MD is a retired Anesthesiologist/Intensivist who posts on social media as DoctorTed and @vidzette.

Image: SVG

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The whole Progressive, Leftist enterprise can be characterized as the astonishing practice of trying to improve things by making them worse. It has always been so.

A hundred years ago, half of Moscow, at one time or another, languished in jail, while the other half feared being arrested. The Muscovites who were still at large were forced to wait in long lines for provisions that remained in short supply. Agriculture had been disrupted by cockeyed regulations. Soviet industry was desperately in need of capital goods but the regime had nothing to offer in trade. Meanwhile, according to Lenin, all was well because the workers had lost their chains and were advancing toward communism.

Today, Lenins heirs insistently promote equity and anti-racism, even as the results of their policies look like chaos. Public schools, having abandoned discipline, fail to graduate students who can read and calculate at grade level. Their alumni nevertheless gain admission to colleges and universities that segregate them and offer majors in rage and insurrection.

Border control is non-existent, vagrancy is explained away, crimes have been de-criminalized, and everyone must be injected with substances that are not entirely safe or effective. But rejoice brothers and sisters in the struggle, for were eradicating inequalities and disparities.

How is it, though, that despite the wretched examples of Soviet Russia, Cuba, Venezuela, and other experiments in political and social ruin, up to and including the Biden administration, we cant shake this ever-failing philosophy?

To get a handle on the matter, we need to delve into the mentality of the social justice movement. The non-profit sector is a good place to start because almost all the foundations that fund human services are run by progressives. How do they operate? What do they require of the organizations applying to them for money?

To get a grant from these charities, first, you must lay out your progressive objectives. Then you must specify the outcome indicators that you will use to measure your progress. By outcome indicators, they mean a number. The number of people or the percentage of program participants who will benefit in this way or that. You are often required to prepare a logic model. This is a chart or diagram that depicts in schematic form what you propose to do, how you will go about doing it, and what you predict the results will be.

Do you see how analytical they are? Perhaps I should say, how left-brained they are? Theyre like physicists. Physicists run experiments in particle accelerators. What occurs in the cyclotron may confound expectations. Physicists then posit the existence of a theoretical particle to explain what happened. Similarly, progressives observe far more Black people in prisons and far fewer in corporate boardrooms than one would project from their proportion of the general population. They then invent a theoretical constructsystemic racismto explain the matter.

Professor Victor Davis Hanson calls the progressive mentality deductive. He says theyre not empirical. What he means is that they impose their theoretical constructs on a complex reality and proceed to carry out the dictates of their theories with the brutal logic of a doomsday machine in a science-fiction movie.

Anything that doesnt fit the constructfor example, pathologies within the Black underclass arising from fatherless families or associating success in school with White cultureis dismissed, ignored, and discarded.

The important thing to notice here is that were all taught to use our minds in this way. Were trained to look for systems. To categorize. To construct explanatory, predictive models and be guided by the results. Its not that this is altogether bad. Its just that we are not taught that this is but one way of employing our minds, one approach to operating in the world.

Contrast this with the approach of the Inuit hunter whose ability to navigate a bleak wilderness of tundra, snow, and ice often amazes visitors from the temperate regions. Listen to the story the land is telling you, the hunter will say. The hunters mind isnt cluttered with theoretical constructs. He is entirely empirical, even a bit intuitive. He must beotherwise hell starve.

Western civilization cannot rid itself of leftist philosophies because the mentality of the left is the bastard child of our left-brained, hyper-analytic mode of thought. It is western intellect through the looking glass, a wild caricature of the western mentality.

To put a stake in the heart of progressive doctrines will require a thorough reappraisal of what it means to educate. This would go far beyond the recognition that indoctrination is not education. In the meantime, we can introduce two correctives into K-12 and higher education to lessen the propensity of our teachers and students to be deductive rather than empirical.

These are concepts that have been preserved for us in religious traditions, though they really have nothing to do with religion. One is humility. Humility does not mean piety, timidity, or submissiveness. It means allowing for the possibility that you may be wrong, that your assumptions might be faulty, or that you have drawn a conclusion prematurely. It means suspending judgment, broadening your inquiry, surveying the here, there, and everywhere of your field, and waiting to see how it all adds up.

The second concept is repentance. Repentance does not mean whacking yourself on the head with a paddle or rending your garments. It means having the flexibility to turn back from a mistaken notion. It means rethinking, regrouping, and reassessing your position, rather than trying to improve things by making them worse.

Sheldon Bart of the Foundation to Illuminate Americas Heroes (www.illuminateamericasheroes.com) is writing a book about intrigue and upheaval in Europe and Asia in the aftermath of World War I.

Image: Tolka Rover

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Alan Dershowitz, an emeritus law professor at Harvard, is one of the greatest legal minds of our time, writing multiple books and publishing hundreds of articles about the law. He has been defending clients in courtrooms since the 1970s and argued numerous cases before the Supreme Court. He was also on the team that defended Donald Trump against impeachment.

Alan Dershowitz believes that Alec Baldwin's shooting of Halyna Hutchins could be considered a homicide. Gun safety protocols are so stringent that an accident of this kind is almost impossible. Armando Gutierrez recalls that on the set of Purge of Kingdoms, "weapons went through maybe 10 people before any actor was handed anything." Prop masters must be licensed, secure permits, and go through strict procedures on set that ensure everyone's safety.

Some of the protocols include keeping weapons in a safe. Then, when the armorer removes a weapon from the safe, he checks it for ammunition. After that, the armorer hands the weapon off to the prop master, who also checks for ammunition. The weapon is checked again on the set. For rehearsals, the actors use only non-working replicas, and the prop master or armorer does not load the gun with blanks until the scene is ready to be filmed. When the armorer finally loads the gun with blanks, he uses only the exact number of blanks required for the scene.

When the actor is handed the gun, there is a general warning that the gun is hot so that everyone on the set is aware of the weapon's status. If any adjustment is needed to the scene, the prop master or armorer takes the weapon back. As soon as the scene is done, the prop master or armorer secures the weapon. Weapons are never to be loaded with live ammunition. In fact, live ammunition should never be on the set at all.

Dershowitz is of the opinion that, since it appears that the people working on Rust, from the armorer to Baldwin himself, didn't follow these protocols, Halyna Hutchins's death could rise to homicide. Ultimately, it was Alec Baldwin who chose not to follow the first rule of gun safety: a gun is always loaded, and you don't point it at anything you don't intend to shoot.

It is possible that even if there is criminal liability, there may not be enough evidence to prove guilt. That is Dershowitz's opinion. I do not share that opinion. I believe that Baldwin is guilty of reckless endangerment, due to his woeful lack of gun safety and the penny-pinching that deprived the crew of the strict (and expensive) regulations that govern filmmaking on Hollywood sets.

However, I do believe that Dershowitz is correct when he states that, going forward, legal measures must be in place to ensure that gun safety protocols are followed. I also believe that legal penalties will be applied against people like Alec Baldwin who ignore the rules of gun safety or despise guns so much that they never bother to learn those rules.

Pandra Selivanov is the author of The Pardon, a story of forgiveness based on the thief on the cross in the Bible.

Image: Alec Baldwin. YouTube screen grab.

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Almost two months after Joe Biden's disastrously botched withdrawal from Afghanistan, that country is in unfathomable peril on multiple fronts.

There was a terror attack on Kabul airport that killed at least 170 and injured over 200. Taliban fighters have been patrolling with AK-47 Kalashnikov rifles. The Taliban beheaded an Afghan interpreter for the U.S. Army. The Taliban has conducted public hangings.

The Taliban has persecuted minority groups. There has been a surge in Islamic State attacks on Shia minorities. The Taliban has prevented women from going to work while female students haven't been allowed to go to school.

Thus, Afghanistan is more unstable than an overturned beehive.

This has been covered more than adequately by international media organizations such as the BBC. The nature of extremism and violence creates instant shock in the mind of the consumer, which makes it compelling and engaging.

However, what gets scarce coverage is the effects that the Taliban takeover has had on the Afghan economy.

The Afghan economy has always been heavily dependent on foreign aid. Following the suspension of aid from various countries and the halting of funds from the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund, the economy has collapsed. Banks that were closed after the Taliban takeover may have reopened, but there is very little cash available.

With no cash in the market, there is a sharp rise in the prices of day-to-day necessities. The price of food for items such as a loaf of bread has skyrocketed and has pushed it beyond buying capacity of regular Afghans.



Waiting for U.S. food aid to be distributed (YouTube screen grab).

People are left with no option but to sell their possessions, such as valuable carpets or TV sets or crockery and cutlery in the hope to exchange them for cash to feed themselves and their families. The situation is so desperate that there are numerous sellers but almost no buyers.

Many businesses have closed following their proprietors fleeing to other countries. Most salaried employees haven't been paid for months.

Many construction projects that were launched prior to the Taliban takeover have come to a grinding half owing to the lack of funds. Hence, only a handful of the construction workers get picked up for work, while the rest are left to fend for themselves.

Women who once worked and supported their families are no longer permitted to work by the new Taliban government, hence their families have no choice but to survive on the mercies of members of the Taliban government and neighbors.

The result is millions living in abject poverty  a serious problem of hunger that affects almost 23 million Afghans. The U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) estimates that 93% of Afghans are not getting enough food to eat, which includes the desperation of parents struggling to feed their children.

Few in the developing or developed world will comprehend the plight of going to bed on an empty stomach.

The United Nations has issued a stark warning  that millions will die if urgent aid does not reach the country soon. There have been heartbreaking stories of Afghan families compelled to sell their babies just to keep them alive. The hunger crisis has been further compounded by several other crises that have sprung simultaneously.

There have been water shortages and severe drought which is the country's second in just four years. The country's already fragile health system is on the brink of collapse since the Taliban takeover. There has also been a shortage of medicine amid reports that cold chain medical storage has been compromised.

The country is about to experience one of its harsh winters. With hundreds of Afghans living in open-air tents, this is likely to further devastate those already suffering from the food crisis.

The global community that understandably does not want to legitimize the Taliban who seized Afghanistan by force now faces a major dilemma. If people want to reach out to the Afghan people who are suffering, they have no option but to recognize the Taliban as a legitimate government. Even if they do recognize the Taliban government, making sure that the aid provided actually reaches the intended people is a huge challenge. They also have to ensure that the aid is not misused for nefarious purposes such as terror training, the purchase of arms, or self-enrichment.

The U.S. mainstream media have chosen to look the other way for two reasons. The first is that they are occupied with attempting to spin or ignore the myriad crisis in the U.S. The second is the obvious reason that they do not want to carry any news that makes fellow Democrats Joe and Kamala look worse than they already do. Since the occurrences are in a foreign country very far away, they know that very few understand or are affected by these issues.

Now, nobody is suggesting that the U.S. should have had a permanent presence in Afghanistan. The withdrawal had to happen. The Afghans had to take charge of their country someday. The principle was right; however, as always, the implementation was bungled beyond imagination.

The result of Biden's hasty withdrawal is that the worst among Islamic terrorists have made Afghanistan their abode. Billions of dollars' worth of U.S. weaponry, including Black Hawks and Humvees, are in the custody of the Taliban. Regular Afghans continue to suffer from abject poverty and hunger.

What exacerbates this catastrophe is that the U.S. has spent almost $5.8 trillion and was present in Afghanistan for around 20 years.

The chaos in Afghanistan has had global implications: there is a distinct change of attitude in China toward Taiwan. The Chinese have openly made threats to annex Taiwan and have frequently invaded Taiwan's airspace.

Gen. Mark Milley and Gen. Frank McKenzie told Congress that they recommended keeping a force of 2,500 troops. Biden claims not to recall this advice. In the end, Biden and only Biden is responsible for this unmitigated disaster.

Do not believe the spinners.

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Does anything good ever come from TikTok? Get a load of its latest charmer: an apparent public school teacher, shrilly "singing" in kindergarten cadence her own ditty about parents at school boards being "terrorists."

Caution: You can't unsee it:

This person believes she should be teaching our children. https://t.co/lA4KrBnk1V  Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) October 25, 2021

Here are her genius lyrics to what she's grandly called an ostinato:

Terrorists. Terrorists. Purple for Parents are Terrorists. Terrorists. Purple for Parents are While some had good intentions, they all were misinformed. Now threatening violence, doxing teachers has become the norm. They come to school board meetings with lots of things to say, and they will bully, cuss or scream if they don't get their way.

Where does that hostility come from? Imagine her sarcasm in a classroom with small kids in general, given that this is her personal style. Should, God forbid, one of her students have an activist parent calling for more involvement in children's education, one can only imagine how she treats the kid. Anyone that hostile to parents shouldn't be anywhere near their kids.

Meanwhile, Purple for Parents, the group she "sings" about, is a parents' rights group focused on children's education, seeking to put a stop to all the leftist propaganda and indoctrination going on in their children's classrooms through parental involvement. They sound like the same sort of parental groups that have set Virginia's boards of education on fire, the ones that had been branded "terrorists" by the National School Boards Association before their big backtrack based on that going over like a lead balloon with the public. This parents' group is active, so far as I can tell, in Indiana and Arizona. A leftist group that they regularly seem to be in opposition to is a radical, well funded socialist teachers' group called #REDforEd, which Breitbart wrote about in 2019. Maybe she's a member of that.

As for who the "teacher," is, that remains unknown. She's got a "celebrate diversity" stamp on her TikTok video with a rainbow-hued Black Lives Matterstyle fist, which looks like a standard Shutterstock "sticker." (Hope she paid the rightful royalties for it.) Thus far as is known, she could be Indiana- or Arizona-based, given her obsession with "Purple for Parents" in her singsong "lyrics." She might have an Italian last name, given her resemblance to Italian-American pop star Madonna, plus her use of the obcure Italian word ostinato. She seems to have musical training, based on this analysis by a guest on Dave Oliver's show on Real America's Voice. Undoubtedly she teaches at lower levels in elementary school, given that no one can fake that style of singsong kindergarten ostinato in such a cadence without continuous practice. If she's like the rest of these education-establishment miscreants, such as the charmer who forced her students to pledge allegiance to the gay pride flag, her identity probably will come out.

Identified or not, that's the rough outline of a leftist who got into public schools to indoctrinate and now opposes parental involvement, brazenly posting a TikTok video insulting America's parents for all her little friends to applaud.

Theoretically, she could lose her job over this, but look at what she's supporting. Might that be the view of her union bosses protecting her and the general educational establishment? Only "mere" parents targeted are intended to be offended.

Quite unlike other TikTok-obsessed teachers looking for a moment of social media glory who've also posted offensive, repulsive videos (and there have been a lot of them), she's supporting the stated view of the educational establishment that parents don't belong in school.

Here's a reported sign seen in Virginia in the heated governor's race in a tweet. Assuming it's not disinformation from an opponent, it's really pretty shocking:

The Left Is Redefining Ignorance pic.twitter.com/1jMR6Tpnf3  RickyLee (@RickyLe80284150) October 25, 2021

Here's a scoop from Chuck Ross at the Washington Free Beacon, showing that one Viola Garcia, of the National School Boards Association, a creature who was intimately involved in crafting the letter characterizing parents speaking out at school board meetings as "terrorists" and who had been in a lot of touch with the Biden White House in the lead-up to the disastrous letter, has now been promoted by Joe Biden to a national school standards board, failing upward. You can't make this stuff up.

They all think this way. And that's why this TikTok teacher has been made possible. These people swim in anti-parent sentiment and now we are seeing lunatic videos such as one above without apology.

TikTok is full of disgusting things. Now it's become a platform for parent-haters coming out of the woodwork. It's hard to say which one is worse.

Image: Screen shot from shareable TikTok video via Twitter.

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Most journalists and other Democrats like to pretend they want to unite the country, but their rhetoric and actions are always meant to sow division.

No matter which Republican the Democrats are running against, or what policies they are supporting, most of the media and other Democrats always resort to playing the race and sex card. They call Republicans xenophobes, homophobes, and whatever other despicable name they can think of. They even frequently resort to comparing anyone who disagrees with their radical, extremist policies to destroy America as domestic terrorists.

Domestic Terrorism

The National School Boards Association sent a letter to the White House equating some parents at school boards to domestic terrorists. The White House forwarded the letter to the supposedly "independent" Justice Department. Then Merrick Garland penned a memorandum saying the Justice Department would investigate. The message from the Justice Department was meant to scare the parents into silence.

When A.G. Garland was asked by Congressman Jordan for the evidence he had, all he cited was the letter. It is like the Obama and Biden Justice Department using a fake dossier funded by Hillary and the DNC to spy on Trump's associates. Evidence was optional.

The Democrats always pretend to care about women and girls, especially ones who are sexually attacked (remember #MeToo?), yet when a ninth-grade girl in a Virginia school gets raped by a boy in a skirt in the locker room, there is virtual silence. They don't even care that the school district covered up the crime and the boy did it again in another school. They don't care that the board lied to the father, and he was arrested at a school board meeting.

They don't care because they have been telling us for years that allowing boys and men who felt like girls, to invade women's bathrooms and locker rooms wouldn't be dangerous. The raped girl was disposable.

My guess is that over 90% of the people have the common sense to know that anyone with a penis should not invade the privacy of women and girls in places where they disrobe.

When Garland was asked about this case, he claimed to have never heard of it, which means he lied or he lives in the basement with Joe. Either way, he should be fired.

Why LBGT Advocates say Bathroom Predators Argument is a Red Herring

It's become a common refrain in recent months: Allowing transgender people to use the restroom that aligns with their gender identity will end up letting male sexual predators into women's bathrooms.

The White House and CDC put out dictatorial edicts that people must be vaccinated or lose their jobs. The DHS dutifully calls anyone who opposes the vaccine a domestic terrorist.

This is the same DHS that doesn't give a darn about all the illegals crossing the border with COVID and without a vaccine.

In Biden's town hall with CNN, he made fun of people's desire for freedom. He called it freedom to kill with COVID.

If Anderson Cooper were a good journalist instead of sycophant puppet, he would have asked Biden if he was granting all those unvaccinated people he was letting cross the border illegally the freedom to kill.

DHS Labels Those Questioning COVID Shots "Domestic Violent Extremists"

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently issued a new National Terrorism Advisory System (NTAS) Bulletin implying that if Americans question and challenge the COVID shot mandates, they are now considered potential "Domestic Violent Extremists" (DVE). However, as the United States approaches the 20th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the "terrorism alert" does not mention Muslim extremism being a threat and it barely mentions al-Qaida.

In 2011, Democrats compared people who wanted smaller government to terrorists. In 2010, Senator Durbin asked the IRS to investigate a conservative group but never cared about liberal groups.

The supposedly independent IRS then dutifully did the dirty work to stifle the First Amendment rights of political opponents.

In a shock, the Obama, Biden Justice Department did a pretend investigation and found that no one should be prosecuted. Somehow, the Justice Department could only find an Obama donor to lead the sham investigation.

Sources: Biden likened tea partiers to 'terrorists'

Vice President Joe Biden joined House Democrats in lashing tea party Republicans Monday, accusing them of having "acted like terrorists" in the fight over raising the nation's debt limit, according to several sources in the room.

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Is Chesa Boudin, radical left-wing district attorney of San Francisco, getting the message he deserves from the blue city's angry and disgusted voters?

Sure looks like it, based on the huge overload of signatures collected from a grassroots recall campaign.

According to the San Francisco Chronicle:

A recall effort against San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin very likely will reach voters as early as June, after campaign organizers submitted approximately 83,000 signatures Friday to qualify for the ballot  roughly 32,000 more than required. Campaign organizers beat the Oct. 25 submission deadline, and city officials now have 30 days to validate the signatures. If the the [sic] signatures are certified, an election will be held next year, and voters would be asked a simple yes or no on whether to keep Boudin in office. If he's ousted, Mayor London Breed would choose a replacement. It's unclear if she will take a position on the recall.

That's good news for the beleaguered city, beset by home burglaries, violence, open-air drug use, cartel activity, bums defecating, and shoplifting so monstrous that huge retailers are pulling out. Nobody but cops, it seems, gets prosecuted on Chesa Boudin's watch.

Raised by Bill Ayers, schooled by Hugo Chavez, and funded by George Soros, none of this idiocy should be surprising. San Francisco, though, is a deep blue city, and supposedly, they should like what Chesa stands for, given that a lot of them voted for it. Now that they've seen their city go to hell in a handbasket to the extent that they can't go to the big Target on Mission anymore (the flagship is pulling out), it sounds as though a sleeping giant is waking up.

Chesa has been holding rallies for himself...and almost no one has shown up.

Two prosecutors in his office have quit their jobs and joined the recall effort, officially because they've had a bellyful of Chesa and his zero-prosecution policies:

Prosecutors Brooke Jenkins and Don Du Bain told KNTV they have stepped down from their posts in San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin's office due to his lack of commitment to prosecuting crimes. "Chesa has a radical approach that involves not charging crime in the first place and simply releasing individuals with no rehabilitation and putting them in positions where they are simply more likely to re-offend," Jenkins said in the interview. "Being an African American and Latino woman, I would wholeheartedly agree that the criminal justice system needs a lot of work, but when you are a district attorney, your job is to have balance." Du Bain added that he believed Boudin "disregards the laws that he doesn't like, and he disregards the court decisions that he doesn't like to impose his own version of what he believes is just  and that's not the job of the district attorney." "The office was headed in such the wrong direction that the best thing I could do was to join the effort to recall Chesa Boudin as district attorney," Du Bain said. Jenkins and Du Bain were among at least 50 lawyers from Boudin's office who quit or were fired since he became district attorney in January of 2020, which represents roughly a third of the department's attorneys.

More likely, given the city's progressivism, and the fact that nobody advances there without it, they are like rats who've detected that the ship is sinking.

The huge margin of the signatures pretty well tells the story. An earlier recall effort failed, but this one, reportedly financed by the nearby tech barons, presented to city officials a cup overflowing.

That's what happens whenever the radical crazies are in charge. It's not just Chesa who's facing the voters' wrath for his progressive policies  it's also several members of the school board and all their wokester education priorities, such as changing the names of schools, erasing Abraham Lincoln from one, in one case, while doing nothing about students stuck in permanent lockdowns. Like the effort against Chesa, it drew more signatures than were needed  70,000 or so, with about 51,000 needed to make it to the ballot, a near 20,000 surplus. And young Chesa, whose recall surplus came in around 30,000, is making it an even greater overflow.

Now, one might expect to remain cynical, given that leftists cheat in elections. A couple things stand out, though, to suggest they can't or won't. One, the margin isn't even close, meaning that it will be much harder to cheat and get away with it. These margins in both recalls are big. Compare and contrast to the California recall of Gavin Newsom, where the margins were small.

Two, the city is all leftists; the right does not figure here at all. That suggests that maybe the establishment doesn't like the guy, either, in the solid blue city, given that Boudin's bad for convention traffic and property values as he lets criminals run loose through the city.

We'll await results of these things, scheduled reportedly for February in the case of the educators and June in the case of Chesa.

If the blue-city leftists of San Francisco do manage to throw this one-man plague from power, what a message that will send to Democrats by November 2022.

Image: Twitter screen shot.

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Dr. Anthony Fauci's prevarications have become so numerous, wide-ranging, and convoluted that it's next to impossible to know what, if anything, can be believed coming from his lips. He's the living, lying embodiment of Aesop's "Boy Who Cried Wolf." A Wall Street Journal column by Gary Saul Morson captures the problem succinctly:

"Dr. Fauci admitted that he first stated that masks were ineffective in part because there was a shortage of masks and he wanted to preserve them for medical workers, who needed them most..." "He doesn't seem to have considered: Once he shades the truth for a reason of policy, why shouldn't reasonable people assume his other statements are based on policy considerations rather than science?"

Why, indeed? When do you believe a proven, even a confessed liar?

Morson, a professor of Slavic languages and literature and co-author of Minds Wide Shut: How the New Fundamentalisms Divide Us, doesn't limit his critique to Fauci's prevarications. He writes about what Russians some time ago dubbed "partisan science."

Trust me (because I've never lied to you): this is something the Russians know a lot about.

"Perhaps the clearest sign that a scientist, or anyone else, is misrepresenting science," Morson writes, "is a confusion of a science with political or social claims that it is thought to imply. That is what social Darwinists and Soviet dialectical materialists did. Such claims are never scientific. They are a clear sign of pseudoscience. One must argue for or against the social or political implications of a scientific discovery in the same way as for any social or political ideas[.] ... "When President Biden ... claims he is only 'following the science,' one can be sure that he isn't. Should we lock down? Lockdowns, like any other policy, entail costs as well as benefits. How do we weigh them? ... Science can inform a policy decision, but whatever judgment one makes, it cannot be based wholly on the science."

We've seen this horror show before. Remember "global warming"? They lied, cherry-picked, and distorted so much about it that its "true believers" had to start calling it something else: "climate change." Same lies, different label. Nah, nothing deceptive about that. Remember Al Gore's Fauci impersonation: "The science is settled!"

As Morson's excellent column makes clear, science is never settled. Politics may be, especially back in Russia's Soviet days. But not science. To claim that science is settled, as Morson so eloquently explains, is simply an unscientific claim.

Beware, my gullible countrymen. The snake oil salesmen are ramping up their lies to persuade you that you must obey their onerous diktats and accept as "settled science" their concocted hypotheses that are anything but settled. Behind the curtain, they are piling up the profits, now in the trillions of dollars, almost all of it in taxpayer's money. Just as with global warming/climate change, it's never about what they claim it's about. It's always about control and money. Their control and your money.

Morson caps his column off with the coup de grace:

If scientists expect their statements to be trusted, they must themselves be trustworthy in making them. One had better be scrupulously honest before asking people to surrender their own judgment and simply believe what they are told. Scientists should be especially careful not to misrepresent political or policy judgments as being scientific. And they must protest vigorously and loudly when other influential people claim to speak in the name of science while misrepresenting it.

We may, and maybe we should, forgive Fauci. But there is no reason ever to believe another word from his lying lips.

Mark Landsbaum is a Christian retired journalist, former investigative reporter, editorial writer, and columnist. He also is a husband, father, grandfather, and Dodgers fan. He can be reached at mark.landsbaum@gmail.com.

Image: NIAID.

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Now that the veil has been lifted from the public's eyes and with Merrick Garland's Department of "Justice" still planning to intimidate American citizens, the National School Boards Association has issued a fake apology for calling parents terrorists. This is the usual smoke-and-mirrors tactic of progressives. They say what they mean, then claim that it was misunderstood. Make no mistake: the NSBA's statement that parents are terrorists conveys the entity's real thoughts despite the recent apology.

It is ironic that the NSBA and the agents of Commissar Garland say they are concerned with limiting violence. That clearly didn't motivate the Loudoun County School Board when a "gender fluid" boy sexually assaulted a girl. If I were a parent whose child experienced that kind of grotesque violence, I would be incensed, too. Instead of limiting violence or seeking justice, Loudoun County covered it up. So much for protecting children.

The rot in American education is long, going back decades to the '60s radicals and Marxists who wanted to dethrone Western civilization and its values of liberty, equality, and merit. The children of those radicals populate today's school boards, the scions of the anti-American and anti-Western protesters who called for a "long march through the institutions" to change society. Their targets then, as now, are the common Americans, the middle-class backbone of the country, the nuclear families that provide the sustenance and stability of civil society.

Through the scrawling vandalism of American monuments, progressives give voice to their genuine beliefs. America is a terrorist nation. Americans are a terrorist people. "Genocidal terrorist." "Colonizer." "Murderer." These are the all too common words and phrases plastered onto our heroes and icons. Even the author of the Declaration of Independence is not free from assault.

Since suburban parents and families are often the descendants of those "genocidal terrorists" and "colonizers," it's not a stretch to say progressives see as modern-day terrorists and colonizers those parents and other American families concerned with Critical Hate Theory's acidic and insidious propaganda.

They were the problem with the founding of the United States. They are the problem with the United States today. There are no nuances. Their Manichean world of right and wrong, righteousness and unrighteousness, is the life spirit that governs their actions. Without it, they may be forced to contemplate questions that would frighten them, as it frightened Jefferson.

What makes the NSBA's apology hollow is that we know that it consulted with the Biden administration for the inflammatory language, despite now saying the language was in error. The NSBA knew what it was doing then. It knows what it is doing now.

The attempt to save face and appeal to the better angels of our nature is a common progressive tactic. Progressives know that conservatives and Christians are more empathetic, charitable, and forgiving than they. Therefore, they hope the same spirit of charity will be extended to those who do not intend to change their ways; their apology and calls for forgiveness are a red herring meant to distract from the obvious.

Despite the NSBA board's apology, does anyone really think its members don't consider parents and families concerned with CRT and gender-fluid propaganda "terrorists"? Does anyone really think school boards and administrators can be trusted with protecting children when they call for their muzzling, masking, and silence? Does anyone really think teachers consider the United States a force for good in the world and an inspiration for future generations?

What the last year of school board and schooling debates and protests has shown is how far the rot in public education, even private education, sinks. Yet Americans have an unprecedented opportunity in the coming elections, and the coming decade, to transform education for themselves, their children, and future generations for the better. This doesn't just begin with school board elections.

The battle over school boards is just a small battle in a larger war over the future of the culture of education. We mustn't settle for believing that public education can be a well for patriotism and wholesomeness because of who is elected in school board races (though this is important). We must also look to private schools, religious schools, and homeschooling as places that will play a major role in the future of education. In short, we must look to ourselves. Change starts with us.

Family life is also a domain of the future of our educational spirit. Education doesn't stop in the classroom. The spirit of education runs through the books we read, the programs we watch, and the stories we tell in our homes. No NSBA memo, apology, or fake groveling for forgiveness and "doing better" will erase the fact that Americans clearly see the poison being thrust upon the next generation. They have declared war on us. We shouldn't forget that even if we do not wish harm on them, though they seek harm on us.

Paul Krause is a writer, editor, and teacher. He is the author of The Odyssey of Love: A Christian Guide to the Great Books and The Politics of Plato and contributed to The College Lecture Today and the forthcoming book Diseases, Disasters, and Political Theory. He is the incoming editor of VoegelinView.

Image: A classroom by the CDC.

To comment, you can find the MeWe post for this article here.
At the Alabama Museum of Natural History located in the University of Alabama campus in Tuscaloosa, there is a small chunk of black space rock that created history on November 30, 1954, when it came crashing through the roof of Ann Hodgess home in Sylacauga, Alabama, and landed on her as she napped under quilts on the sofa. The 8.5 pound, 4.5-billion-year-old space rock, after poking a hole through the roof of her rented house, bounced off a big console radio, and then hit Ann on the left side of her body at around 2:46 PM, and at that very moment the 34-year-old Alabama woman became the first verified human being to have been struck by a meteorite.

Moody Jacobs shows a giant bruise on the side and hip of his patient, Ann Hodges, in 1954, after she was struck by a meteorite.

Before the meteorite slammed into Ann's living room, people in Sylacauga and across eastern Alabama reported seeing a bright reddish light like a Roman candle trailing smoke. Others saw a fireball, like a gigantic wielding arc.

After the meteorite landed and struck Ann, she and her mother tried to figure out what had happened. The house was filled with dust, and they initially believed that the chimney had collapsed or the space heater had exploded. But after spotting the rock on the floor and the big pineapple-sized bruise on her body, they called the police and the fire departments. With the arrival of emergency vehicles, word began to spread that something unusual had occurred at the Hodges house. When Anns husband, Eugene Hodges, a utility worker, returned home from work, he had to push his way towards the house. Ann greeted her husband on the porch and reportedly said We had a little excitement around here today. In fact, Ann was so overwhelmed by the crowds that she had to be hospitalized the following day. "I havent been able to sleep since I was hit," she told reporters.

Because the origin of the rock that hit Ann was still undetermined, the Sylacauga police chief confiscated the black rock and turned it over to the Air Force, who called a geologist to look at the rock. After the rocks identity was confirmed, the question arose what to do with it. Usually, things like meteorites belonged in a museum, but Ann demanded that the rock be returned to them. I feel like the meteorite is mine, she said. I think God intended it for me. After all, it hit me! But Ann lived in a rented house, and the landlord, Birdie Guy, also laid claim to the meteorite.

Sylacauga police officers hold the meteorite while inspecting the damage to Ann Hodges roof.

After months of legal wrangling, the case was settled out of court, and Ann and her husband paid their landlady $500 for the meteorite. Perhaps Ann and Eugene Hodges hoped they could earn a fortune by auctioning off the meteorite, but to their disappointment, nobody offered them anything. For a while, the family used the rock as a doorstop before donating it to the Alabama Museum of Natural History, where it remains.

The meteorite that hit Ann Hodges was a fragment of a bigger piece of rock that shot across Alabamas sky that afternoon. One piece fell a few miles away where another resident of the Sylacauga area, a farmer named Julius Kempis McKinney, found it on the street while driving a mule-drawn wagon. Not realizing it was a meteorite, McKinney, pushed the rock out of the mules path and continued home. That night, after hearing about Ann Hodgess experience, he retrieved the rock and took it home, and let his children play with it. Unlike Ann Hodges, McKinney made enough money from the sale of the rock to buy a house and a car. Shortly afterward, that meteorite was donated to the National Museum of Natural History in Washington.

Meanwhile, Ann Hodges became a minor celebrity. Her story along with her photographs appeared on the cover of the Life magazine. The stress from the national attention she received led to a nervous breakdown and exacerbated her ongoing health problems leading to the couples divorce. She died of kidney failure in a local nursing home at the age of just 52.

Eugene Hodges, Ann Hodges husband, holds the infamous meteorite in his hand.

Ann's story is incredibly rare because most meteorites fall harmlessly into the ocean or strike one of Earth's vast, remote places, according to Michael Reynolds, a Florida State College astronomer and author of the book Falling Stars: A Guide to Meteors & Meteorites.

Think of how many people have lived throughout human history, Reynolds said. You have a better chance of getting hit by a tornado and a bolt of lightning and a hurricane all at the same time.

While improbably rare, such incidents do occur. The earliest claim of a person being hit and killed by a meteorite comes from 1677 in a manuscript published at Tortona, Italy. The passage reads:

It seems evidently demonstrated that thunder ought to be attributed to a solid and stony substance, and not to an exhalation of any kind; as is proved by one of those stones projected from the clouds, which struck with sudden death a Franciscan friar of Santa Maria della Pace, at Milan, and which is open to the inspection of every body in our Museum. I will relate the circumstances of this event, that no one may doubt its authenticity. All the other monks of the convent of St. Mary hastened up to him who had been struck, as well from curiosity as from pity, and among them was also the Canon Manfredo Settala. They all carefully examined the corpse, to discover the most secret and decisive effects of the shock which had struck him. They found it was on one of the thighs, where they perceived a wound blackened either by the gangrene or by the action of the fire. Impelled by curiosity, they enlarged the aperture to examine the interior of it; they saw that it penetrated to the bone, and were much surprised to find at the bottom of the wound a roundish stone which had made it, and had killed this monk in a manner equally terrible and unexpected.

The passage then gives a description of the stone:

This stone weighed about a quarter of an ounce, it had sharp edges, and its surface resembled one of those silver coins which are currently at Milan under the name of Filippo. It was not, however, perfectly round, having on one side of a rather obtuse angle. Its colour varied so, that on part it was that of a burnt brick, and on the other it seemed to be covered with a thin ferrugineous shining crust. Being broken in the middle it emitted an insupportable smell of sulphur.

In 2009, a 14-year-old German boy, Gerrit Blank, was hit in the hand by a pea-size meteorite. While he wasn't seriously injured, the rock did leave a scar and gave the boy quite a fright.

When it hit me it knocked me flying and then was still going fast enough to bury itself into the road, Gerrit Blank told reporters.

In 1992, a meteorite exploded over eastern United States and one of pieces struck a parked Chevrolet automobile in Peekskill, New York. More about the story here: the Peekskill Meteorite.

Also in 1992, a tiny meteorite fragment, about 3 grams in mass, hit a young Ugandan boy in Mbale. The meteorite struck a tree first and was slowed down causing no injury.

Again, in 1994, a Spanish couple was driving near Madrid when a 3-pound meteor crashed through his windshield, bent the steering wheel and ended up in the back seat.

# Alice George, In 1954, an Extraterrestrial Bruiser Shocked This Alabama Woman, Smithsonian Magazine # Alabama's Housewife-Whacking Meteorite, Roadside America # Justin Nobel, The True Story of History's Only Known Meteorite Victim, National Geographic # Boy Hit by Meteorite, Space.com # The Journal of Science and the Arts, Volume 14, Google Books
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KCR Takes A Dig On Election Commission Again:- Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) has been reelected as the President of TRS unanimously and the decision was taken during the TRS Plenary meeting that took place yesterday. All the TRS leaders, MLAs and MPs attended the meeting on Monday. KCR made the best use of the plenary meeting to campaign for the TRS in the Huzurabad bypoll that will be held on October 30th. The Election Commission of India asked the Telangana government to hold the Dalit Bandhu program and KCR took a dig against the EC again. He said that the constituency of Huzurabad would be an example of the successful implementation of Dalit Bandhu program and the pilot project is initiated in Huzurabad.

KCR said that the poll panel crossed the limits after they objected the public meeting and by stopping Dalit Bandhu program. KCR advised the Election Commission to maintain their dignity instead of succumbing the pressure of the others. "It is not fair to impose restrictions on my public meeting. Some of them filed cases before the Nagarjunasagar bypoll in the past. I want to know what can EC achieve through their recent moves? More number of people are watching my speech live through this plenary meeting. No opposition party can stop me" told KCR. Speaking about Dalit Bandhu program, KCR said that the state would not be left in any financial stress. He also expressed his confidence on TRS retaining the power again in the next elections.

(Video Source: ABN Telugu)
Among the several new features coming with Android 12 is the brand new Internet Panel. However, this feature hasnt gone down well with some users. Google has now tried to explain its functionality in a new community post.

For those unaware, the Internet Panel brings together the mobile data and Wi-FI toggles rather than having these buttons separately. Tapping the standalone Internet button from the Quick Settings opens up a window to toggle mobile internet or Wi-Fi on/off. So the new Internet Panel brings an additional step to the simple process of enabling data or WiFi.

Google said the Internet Panel addresses a common user pain point

From our user studies, we found that the majority of users turn off Wi-Fi in order to force their phone to connect to cellular. This is usually done in response to a poor Wi-Fi connection and the lack of an alternative way to get the phone to explicitly connect to the users carrier, Google said in its post (via).

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Users who turn off Wi-Fi will often forget to turn Wi-Fi back on again, resulting in possible excess mobile data usage. Our research showed that this has been a pain point for users, so we made the decision to address it with this release.

Google cites internal studies conducted on the topic, so its clear the company has done some research. But the company admits that the change took a while to get used to, adding that it helps users in the long run.

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The company further said that the Internet Panel is currently inaccessible from the lock screen. This could change with the upcoming Pixel Feature Drop for the Pixel 6 series.

The company has also rearranged the Quick Settings menu with Android 12. This is in addition to a wide range of visual changes making their way to the platform. Prominent among them is dynamic theming, which meshes the colors of your wallpaper with the system theme.

Android 12 is currently rolling out to Pixel phones while the Pixel 6 and 6 Pro have it by default. Meanwhile, Samsung is also developing its version of Android 12 with the new One UI 4.0. However, an official release could be a couple of months away.
Samsung is looking to build a new chip fabrication plant in the US. The company announced the $17 billion investment plan back in May. However, it has yet to finalize the location for the new factory. A couple of reports last month suggested that the Korean giant is close to reaching a decision but nothing has come out as of now. It appears Samsung might finally reveal where it will construct the new $17 billion chip factory next month.

According to the Korean media, Samsungs de facto leader Lee Jae-yong could visit the US next month to finalize the deal with local authorities. Kim Ki-nam, a Samsung vice chairman and the head of the companys device solutions division, said these kinds of decisions require a thorough examination of various factors including infrastructure, locality, personnel, and government incentives.

The Korean firm is currently reviewing these factors and is trying to reach a decision as soon as possible. Kim was speaking to reporters at the Korea Electronics Show 2021, which kicked off earlier today in Seoul. The event runs through and will run through October 29th, 2021.

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Samsung could construct the new chip factory in Williamson County

The new report suggests the city of Taylor in Williamson County, Texas could emerge as the location for Samsungs new chip factory in the US. Williamson County has been the frontrunner in this race. The local government has offered an extensive incentives package to the company. Reports suggest the county could rebate Samsung up to 90 percent of property taxes.

There are also other factors that Samsung would be considering. Firstly, it already has a chip plant in the county, in the Austin suburb. Moreover, a few more tech biggies have a presence in Williamson County. It is home to Dell, while Apple is constructing a new campus there.

Samsung is preparing to respond to a US request for chip supply chain information

During the said press briefing, Kim was also asked about the recent US government request to share information about its chip supply chains. The US Department of Commerce has asked all major stakeholders of the chip industry to disclose information on their respective supply chains as the chip shortage hits hard. This will help improve trust and transparency within the supply chain, the White House officials said.

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However, this request has sparked concerns among the vendors. There are fears that it could compromise sensitive client information and trade secrets. TSMC, the worlds largest contract chipmaker, has already announced that it will not share any sensitive information related to its customers. Kim said Samsung is also calmly preparing a response for this US request.
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(ANSA) - ROME, OCT 26 - Police staged a series of operations in various parts of the country on Tuesday targetting Mafia and drugs gangs run but both Italian and foreign nationals.

In total 103 people were arrested or subjected to other forms of restrictive measures.

The suspects are accused of crimes including mafia association, criminal association for the sale of drugs, drug dealing, extortion, kidnapping and robbery.

The operations were carried out by police from Latina, Catanzaro, L'Aquila, Salerno, Lecco, Terni, Taranto, Genoa and Vicenza.

One of the biggest operations took place in Latina, a city between Naples and Rome, where restrictive measures were imposed on 33 people. (ANSA).


ATHENS - The Greek Coast Guard said Monday morning it rescued 20 people from a migrant boat shipwreck during bad weather near the island of Chios, in the Aegean Sea, and it is still looking for at least seven others.



"According to those who were on the boat, there were 27 people aboard," said a statement from the Greek Coast Guard.



A NATO vessel and some local fishing boats are also participating in the search, together with two helicopters.
BEIRUT - Dozens of Lebanese farmers can harvest olives from their land in southern Lebanon in a disputed area between Lebanon and Israel that straddles the Blue Line between the two countries, as a result of a negotiation carried out by Italian Major General Stefano Del Col, UNIFIL head of mission and force commander.



Lebanon and Israel have been in a state of war since their countries were formed more than 70 years ago.



UNIFIL spokesperson Andrea Tenenti told ANSA the question of olive harvesting is negotiated from year to year between the parties and is not new this season, as stated by some regional media.



The olive harvest takes place in the area of the Lebanese villages of Blita and Aitarun, on both sides of the Blue Line, established by the UN in 2000 immediately after the Israeli military withdrawal from Lebanon.



In this area, Lebanese farmers' land has literally been divided in two parts, one south of the Blue Line and the other north of the same dividing line.



Lebanon claims the territory is Lebanese, while Israel claims control of the land, where a few dozen olive trees stand.



Lebanese agricultural sources said this year the harvest is particularly meager.



UNIFIL said Israeli authorities agreed to let the Lebanese farmers cross the Blue Line in that patch of land.



However, the Lebanese army must ensure that from the other side there are no infiltrations into Israel or attempts to exploit the situation politically, with provocations or violent actions by the pro-Iranian Hezbollah, which effectively control the region.


ROME - The Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, on Monday in Doha inaugurated the new consultative assembly elected at the beginning of October, promising recognition of the principle of equal rights for all citizens.



Qatar-owned pan-Arab TV Al Jazeera broadcast the ceremony live and gave ample emphasis to Emir Al Thani's speech.



He announced that the current citizenship law will be changed, directly addressing those who had criticised the fact that thousands of Qataris, mostly belonging to the tribal confederation of al Murra, had not been able to vote last October 2 because they were not recognized as full citizens.



The current law recognises nationality only for those belonging to tribal clans present in the territory before 1930.



In Qatar the al Murra, historically also present in other countries of the Arabian Peninsula, are included in the list of tribes "naturalized" after that date.



In 1996, al Murra members attempted a coup against the former emir of Qatar, Hamad Al Thani, father of the current emir.



"To promote the equality of Qatari citizenship and ensure it is applied in practice (...) I instructed the cabinet to prepare legal amendments in this regard," said Sheikh Tamim.



Qatar went to the polls for the first time at the beginning of October to elect two-thirds of the 45 members of the Shura Council.



The remaining 15 members were appointed by the emir himself.


NAPLES - The Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and the European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) signed a collaboration agreement in Barcelona to allow all UfM member countries access to the data necessary to better cope with the challenges of climate change.



The two entities will work together with training courses for governmental managers and access to necessary reference materials on the subject.



The deal follows the announcement by the EU's Copernicus Climate Change Service that 2021 was the hottest summer on record on the European continent, with wildfires in many countries and on its coasts, while other countries suffered the worst floods in decades.



In addition, data from Euro-Mediterranean scientists show the basin is warming 20% faster than the global average of the seas, and the region is one of the most subjected to climate change in the world.



Through the agreement, governments will have access to the most up-to-date data and the most recent and essential research for decision making.



UfM Secretary General Nasser Kamel said the Mediterranean has been called "a hotspot for climate change and the loss of biodiversity".



"The subsequent question is how we can improve the ways in which scientific evidence is constructed, integrated and communicated, so it can contribute more effectively, efficiently and quickly into policy formulation. The Science-Society-Politics interface allows hard-won evidence to turn into concrete policies for our region. This is why the UfM and ECMWF collaboration will allow our region to be a pioneer in good practices and an example in formulating regional policies in the fight against climate change," Nasser said.



ECMWF General Director Florence Rabier said ECMWF is "delighted to have signed this new collaboration with the Union for the Mediterranean".



"Through our activities within the EU-funded Copernicus Climate Change and Atmospheric Monitoring Services, we aim to support the Mediterranean countries with comprehensive and policy critical data. Our goal is to enable climate adaptation and mitigation initiatives at the European level," Rabier said.



To inaugurate this partnership, UfM and Copernicus hosted a virtual consultation to present the challenges linked to climate change in the Mediterranean and how these can be overcome by better leveraging climate data.


Vehicles belonging to puppy smugglers should be crushed at the Port of Dover to deter others from committing the same crime, ministers have been told.

The Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill would reduce the number of pets that can be brought into the country for non-commercial reasons to five per motor vehicle on rail and ferry routes, and three per person for those arriving by air or as a foot passenger.

The Bill also gives ministers powers to introduce further restrictions at a later stage, with a recent consultation examining proposals to raise the minimum age for importing a puppy from 15 weeks to six months and ban the import of heavily pregnant dogs.

Environment Secretary George Eustice said the number of dogs intercepted rose from 390 in 2019 to almost 1,300 in 2020, adding there is growing evidence showing commercial importers abuse non-commercial pet travel rules in place to bring lost of puppies at once.

Conservative Sir Roger Gale (North Thanet) was among several MPs to urge the Government to go further on reforming import laws.

He said: The illegal importing of puppies is horrific. The diseases that are brought into the country and the state of the animals is frequently appalling.

The misery it causes for the animals and the recipients of those animals is equally grim.

Sir Roger, whose son works as a veterinary surgeon, added we need to throw the book at the people doing it.

He went on: I would actually like to see a car crusher on the dock at Dover and Id like to see, as a result of the Proceeds of Crime Act, the cars used by anybody found to be smuggling puppies crushed in front of them.

It might just act as a deterrent.

To laughter, Sir Roger noted: Id of course remove the puppies first, just in case. Im not so concerned about the driver.

Earlier, shadow environment secretary Luke Pollard insisted not only it is important to raise the minimum age for imported puppies from 15 weeks to six months, but that the Government should also increase the sentences given to pet smugglers.

He said: We also want to raise the maximum penalties for those illegally importing dogs, because currently you can get a longer sentence by illegally importing cigarettes than you can by illegally importing puppies.

George Eustice said the number of dogs intercepted rose from 390 in 2019 to almost 1,300 in 2020 (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

Neil Parish, Conservative chairman of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Select Committee, echoed Mr Pollards remarks, saying: I would ask the Secretary of State to move on this quite quickly and that is to move to the fact that the puppies should be six months old, when they wont be puppies any more. This will be twofold.

One, I think the Border Agency  it will be much easier for them to be able to recognise that these puppies are young, theyre not six months old. Also, you know, the puppies are not as cuddly and as sale worthy.

The Bill would also ban live exports of farmed animals for slaughter or fattening and give police new powers to deal with dogs attacking or worrying livestock.

It also aims to stop people keeping primates as pets in England  with the Government expected to table an amendment to extend this to Wales  although MPs said more needs to be done in this area.

The Bill sets out licensing conditions for primates to be kept outside of licenced zoos and scientific facilities, with Mr Eustice noting: The new primate keeper licence will ensure the only people keeping primates are those able to meet the highest welfare standards appropriate to meet their welfare needs.

Conservative MP Sheryll Murray (South East Cornwall) was among those to ask for the Government to go further.

She said: I stood on a manifesto which promised to ban keeping primates as pets. And I want this Bill to fulfil that promise.

Mrs Murray added: Im very concerned about the proposed licensing of keeping primates as pets by some people. I would like to see a complete ban on the practice.

The Bill later received an unopposed second reading and will undergo further scrutiny at a later date.
Depositions in the civil sexual assault case against the Duke of York must be completed by mid-July of next year, a judge in the US has ruled.

While not specified in the court papers, both Andrew and his accuser Virginia Giuffre are expected to answer questions under oath.

And depositions must be completed on or before July 14, district judge Lewis Kaplan, who serves in the Southern District of New York, said.

The Duke of Yorks reputation was severely damaged by allegations he sexually assaulted Virginia Giuffre (Aaron Chown/PA)

The Queens Platinum Jubilee celebrations will take place in June, potentially setting up a clash with Andrews legal issues over the summer.

Andrew vehemently denies allegations he sexually assaulted Ms Giuffre when she was a teenager.

She is seeking unspecified damages from the 61-year-old, whose lawyer has dismissed the accusations as baseless.

In the scheduling order, signed by lawyers for both parties, the judge also ruled a pretrial order, which sets out the course of the case, is due by July 28.

And no additional parties are allowed to join the case after December 15.

Ms Giuffre claims she was trafficked by convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the dukes former friend, to have sex with Andrew when she was aged 17 and a minor under US law.

The Duke of York vehemently denies the claims against him (Neil Hall/PA)

Andrew has not been charged with any crime.

Earlier this month the Metropolitan Police said it was taking no action over Ms Giuffres claims.

The case has proved ruinous for the dukes image.

In a Newsnight interview with the BBCs Emily Maitlis in November 2019, Andrew denied claims that he slept with Ms Giuffre on three separate occasions and said: I can absolutely categorically tell you it never happened.

I have no recollection of ever meeting this lady, none whatsoever.

The duke also said he has no memory of a well-known photograph of him with his arm around Ms Giuffres waist and has questioned whether it was his own hand in the image.

The fallout from the interview saw the royal criticised for showing a lack of empathy towards Epsteins victims and a lack of remorse over his friendship with disgraced financier.
Jamar Bailey has been jailed for 25 and a half years for attempted murder. (West Midlands Police)

A man who tried to poison a newborn baby girl by giving her prescription drugs in a milk bottle has been jailed.

Jamar Bailey, 21, searched online for how to kill a newborn and how to poison a baby, police said.

He was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday to 25-and-a-half years in prison after previously pleading guilty to attempted murder.

The three-week-old baby was taken to Birmingham Childrens Hospital on 27 June 2020 after becoming listless and unresponsive.

Read more: Sajid Javid says people can expect a 'normal Christmas'

A urine test found the infant had been given sodium valporate, a drug used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder, which was potentially fatal to the baby.

Police were notified of the finding by hospital staff who said it could not have been taken accidentally.

Bailey, from Augustin Grove, Winson Green, in Birmingham, was taking medication for seizures and a search of his property found a prescription drug for Epilim Chrono  which contains sodium valproate - in his name. He was arrested on suspicion of wilfully harming a child.

Officers seized several items and toxicology tests found evidence of the drug in the babys milk bottle.

Police also found a search history on Baileys mobile phone for how to poison a baby and how to kill a newborn baby.

West Midlands Police said the baby is now thriving, although it will not be known until she is older if there are any lasting effects.

Detective Sergeant Kirsty Wilson, from the forces public protection unit, said: The little girl is so lucky to be alive and we are really pleased that she is doing so well.

Jamar Bailey was sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court on Monday to 25 and a half years in prison. (PA)

Baileys actions were premeditated and could quite easily have resulted in her death.

Our investigation was complex and relied on medical evidence and the support of partner agencies, so we are satisfied that justice has been done.

Read more: 'Real-life Barbie' assaulted three emergency workers

Bailey will have to serve two thirds of his sentence before being eligible to apply for parole.

The Birmingham Mail reported that Judge Roderick Henderson told Bailey: There are two very clear victims.

There is the baby who you attempted to kill but significant aggravating feature of this case is the other victim, her mother.

That baby was taken from her, she herself was suspected of trying to kill her own child and at a time when a mother is expecting to bond with that child, [the baby] was deprived of that. In my judgment, that other aspect, the second victim, makes it much more serious.
Downing Street says it completely agrees that it is unacceptable for water companies to dump raw sewage in the countrys rivers, but has defended the Governments actions after MPs voted against an amendment to the Environment Bill.

A spokesman for Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the intentions of an amendment to the Environment Bill, which includes putting a legal duty on water companies to stop raw sewage from being poured into waterways, is already being delivered.

The statement comes after campaigners, including Surfers Against Sewage, said they were disappointed that 268 MPs  against 204  disagreed with proposals to amend the bill, which is to go back before peers for scrutiny later today.

MPs voted against the amendment last week (Anthony Devlin/PA)

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: We completely agree that the current failure of water companies to adequately reduce sewage discharges is unacceptable.

The spokesman added that the amendment put forward by the Duke of Wellington remains un-costed, but the initial assessments are over 150 billion and that would mean that individuals  every one of us as taxpayers  paying potentially thousands of pounds each as a result.

Downing Street said that, as a result, its not right to sign a blank cheque on behalf of customers without understanding the trade-offs and the bills that would be involved, but tougher legal duties are being placed on water companies and we will continue to listen to MPs who have legitimate concerns.

Those MPs include Huw Merriman, MP for Bexhill and Battle.

Huw Merriman spoke about the effects sewage dumping has on his constituents (Jessica Taylor/UK Parliament/PA)

He told BBC News on Tuesday: We cannot have sewage being put into our seas. Our seas are unclean and unhealthy to swim in, and peoples lives are blighted because, when they see heavy rainfall, they then worry about sewage coming into their households.

Ultimately, my constituents have to live with this as a coastal community. I have to put them before what the Government is telling me I should do.

MPs who voted against the amendment have also come under fire from campaigners and Defra, which said it was unacceptable that raw sewage was put into coastal waters and rivers in England more than 400,000 times in the last year.

The Shadow Defra secretary, Luke Pollard, said: People are right to be upset at the dreadful state of Englands rivers. Not one English river is in a healthy condition and there has been zero improvement since 2016.

The Government is to blame for allowing water companies to vent raw sewage into our rivers and sea seemingly at will.
The UK Government is facing fresh calls for funding to help secure Waless coal tips and avoid future disasters.

First Minister of Wales Mark Drakeford wants Boris Johnson to commit to long-term investment in coal tip safety which would help communities who have already given so much.

It comes as a survey shows where the higher-risk tips are located, including 71 now revealed to be in the worst category.

Wales has 2,456 identified tips, of which 327 are classified as higher risk, and these have been broken down into local authority area.

Waless disused coal tips in the high-risk to low-risk categories (Welsh Government handout/PA)

Neath Port Talbot has the greatest number of sites at 607, but Rhondda Cynon Taf, also in South Wales, has the most sites classified as being at higher risk at 75.

Those that are in the highest risk category do not pose an imminent or immediate threat, the Welsh Government has said, but require more frequent inspection.

Rhondda Cynon Taf councillor Andrew Morgan said: This data shows that substantial long-term investment is needed if we are to make sure that necessary repair work is carried out and to ensure the safety of these sites across Wales.

Despite a cross-party joint letter endorsed by all of the 22 council leaders in Wales requesting UK Government funding, it is disappointing that  despite some initial financial support  they have so far refused to commit to an ongoing programme of funding.

The spending review gives a chance for the UK Government to give some much-needed reassurance to communities that are still living in the shadow of their industrial legacy.

By working together we can help to make sure that we protect these sites against future climate change risks, and to prevent repeating past disasters.

The collapse of a coal tip on a primary school in Aberfan in 1966 took 144 lives, including those of 116 children.

The Tylorstown landslide, in February 2020, prompted the Welsh and UK governments to set up a joint Coal Tip Safety Taskforce to assess the immediate status of disused coal tips in Wales.

The group is to meet for the fourth time on Tuesday, where the Welsh Government will stress the need for investment to be frontloaded in the coming years, as rainfall intensifies and temperatures increase because of the changing climate.

It is estimated the cost of dealing with the disused coal tips over the next 15 years will be between 500 million and 600 million.

Mr Drakeford said: These sites pre-date devolution. Our funding settlement does not recognise the substantial, long-term costs of remediating and repairing these sites.

Tomorrows spending review is an opportunity for the UK Government to use its financial powers to help communities whove given so much to Wales and the United Kingdom during the coal-mining years.
Dave Chappelle has reiterated his offer to meet with transgender employees at Netflix offended by his latest special, The Closer, but he has some stipulations.

The comedian has been under fire since the Oct. 5 release of the show, which so offended the transgender community that GLAAD condemned it and employees of the streaming service walked out in protest last week. In it, Chappelle said, "Gender is a fact," and he defended Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, who has been accused of being transphobic. Employees who walked out had called for the company to take measures that would keep Netflix from promoting misinformation about trans and nonbinary communities in the future.

On Monday, he posted a clip from a post-The Closer performance, which clarified his stance on the meeting: "It's been said in the press that I was invited to speak to the transgender employees at Netflix, and I refused. That is not true," Chappelle said. "If they had invited me, I would have accepted it, although I am confused about what we're speaking about. I said what I said, and boy I heard what you said. My god. How could I not? You said you want a safe working environment at Netflix. Well, it seems like I'm the only one that can't go to the office anymore."

He asked the audience not to blame the LGBTQ+ community.

"I want everyone in this audience to know that, even though the media frames us that it's me versus that community, that is not what it is. Let's not blame the LGBT community for any of this shit," he said. "This has nothing to do with them. It's about corporate interests and what I can say and what I cannot say. For the record, and I need you to know this, everyone I know from that community has been nothing but loving and supportive, so I don't know what all this nonsense is about."

He explained what it would take for him to sit down with his critics, and it involved Hannah Gadsby, another comedian who slammed Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos  who defended Chappelle's "artistic expression" after the special debuted. (Sarandos used Gadsby, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, as an example of why Chappelle's show would not be removed; there was diversity, he said. Gadsby responded by telling him, in no uncertain terms, to leave her out of the debate.)

"To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience," Chappelle said. "But you will not summon me. I am not bending to anybody's demands. And if you want to meet with me, I'd be more than willing to, but I have some conditions. First of all, you cannot come if you have not watched my special from beginning to end. You must come to a place of my choosing at a time of my choosing. And thirdly, you must admit that Hannah Gadsby is not funny."

Dave Chapelle's latest Netflix special, "The Closer," has been met with backlash. (Photo: Samir Hussein/WireImage)

The comedian spoke about some of the consequences that he has seen over the past three weeks. For instance, he said interest in Untitled, the documentary he made about the murder of George Floyd, has been greatly reduced.

"This film that I made was invited to every film festival in the United States. Some of those invitations I accepted, and when this controversy came out, about The Closer, they began disinviting me from these film festivals," Chappelle said. "And now, today, not a film company, not a movie studio, not a film festival, nobody will touch this film. Thank God for Ted Sarandos at Netflix. He's the only one that didn't cancel me yet."

So, Chappelle said he is taking his movie to 10 U.S. cities, with tickets going on sale in the next few days. According to Live Nation, cellphones won't be allowed.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden heads to a vital U.N. climate summit at a time when a majority of Americans regard the deteriorating climate as a problem of high importance to them, an increase from just a few years ago.

About 6 out of 10 Americans also believe that the pace of global warming is speeding up, according to a new survey from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago.

As Biden struggles to pass significant climate legislation at home ahead of next week's U.N. climate summit, the new AP-NORC/EPIC poll also shows that 55% of Americans want Congress to pass a bill to ensure that more of the nation's electricity comes from clean energy and less from climate-damaging coal and natural gas.

Only 16% of Americans oppose such a measure for electricity from cleaner energy. A similar measure initially was one of the most important parts of climate legislation that Biden has before Congress. But Biden's proposal to reward utilities with clean energy sources and penalize those without ran into objections from a coal-state senator, Democrat Joe Manchin of West Virginia, leaving fellow Democrats scrambling to come up with other ways to slash pollution from burning fossil fuels.

For some of the Americans watching, it's an exasperating delay in dealing with an urgent problem.

If you follow science, the signs are here, said Nancy Reilly, a Democrat in Missouri who's retired after 40 years as a retail manager, and worries for her children as the climate deteriorates. It's already here. And what was the first thing they start watering down to get this bill through? Climate change.

It's just maddening, Reilly said. I understand why, I do  I get the politics of it. I'm sick of the politics of it."

After President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the Paris climate accord, the Biden administration hoped to help negotiate major emissions cuts globally to slow the rise of temperatures. But it's unclear whether Biden will be able to get any significant climate legislation through Congress before the U.N. summit starts Sunday.

In all, 59% of Americans said the Earth's warming is very or extremely important to them as an issue, up from 49% in 2018. Fifty-four percent of Americans cited scientists' voices as having a large amount of influence on their views about climate change, and nearly as many, 51%, said their views were influenced by recent extreme weather events like hurricanes, deadly heat spells, wildfires and other natural disasters around the world.

Over the last 60 years, the pollution pumped out by gasoline and diesel engines, power plants and other sources has changed the climate and warmed the Earth by 1.7 degrees Fahrenheit, making the extremes of weather more extreme.

In east Tennessee's Smoky Mountains, leaf-peeper websites this year are advising fall foliage tourists that leaves are taking days longer than normal to turn from green to fiery orange and red. It's not evidence of climate change as a one-off instance, but typical of the changes Americans are seeing as the Earth heats up.

Normally you get the four seasons, fall, spring, and winter, and it goes in that way. But lately, it's not been that," said Jeremy Wilson, a 42-year-old who votes independent and works the grounds at a scenic chairlift park that runs people up to the top of the Smoky Mountains. It's been either way hotter, or way colder.

Seventy-five percent of Americans believe that climate change is happening, while 10% believe that it is not, the poll found. Another 15% are unsure.

Among those who say it is happening, 54% say that its caused mostly or entirely by human activities compared to just 14% who think  incorrectly, scientists say  that its caused mainly by natural changes in the environment. Another 32% of Americans believe it's a mix of human and natural factors.

And while Democrats are more likely than Republicans to say climate change is happening, majorities of both parties agree that it is. That breaks down to 89% of Democrats and and 57% of Republicans.

The poll also gauged Americans' willingness to pay for the cost of cutting climate-wrecking pollution as well as mitigating its consequences.

Fifty-two percent said they would support a $1 a month carbon fee on their energy bill to fight climate change, but support dwindles as the fee increases.

I would say, like 5, 10 dollars, as long as it's really being used for what it should be, said Krystal Chivington, a 46-year-old Republican in Delaware who credits her 17-year-old daughter for reviving her own passion for fighting climate change and pollution.

It's not ordinary consumers who should bear the brunt of paying to stave off the worst scenarios of climate change, said Mark Sembach, a 59-year-old Montana Democrat who works in environmental remediation.

"I think it needs to fall a great deal on responsible corporations thats  and unfortunately ... most corporations arent responsible," Sembach said. And I think there needs to be a lot of pushback as to who ultimately pays for that.

___

The AP-NORC poll of 5,468 adults was conducted Sept. 8-24 using a combined sample of interviews from NORCs probability-based AmeriSpeak Panel, which is designed to be representative of the U.S. population, and interviews from opt-in online panels. The margin of sampling error for all respondents is plus or minus 1.7 percentage points. The AmeriSpeak panel is recruited randomly using address-based sampling methods, and respondents later were interviewed online or by phone.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  A suspect is in custody after two people were killed and four injured  including a police officer  in a shooting at a shopping mall Monday in Boise, Idaho, police said.

At a news conference, authorities said officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect. The majority of the mall has been cleared, but police were still looking for any additional victims.

Police didn't release any other information about the victims or the suspect, saying the investigation was ongoing.

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee said the shooting was reported to law enforcement about 1:50 p.m. on Monday  including a report that one person was shot and down at that time.

When the officers arrived, they spotted someone who matched the description of the suspect.

There was an exchange of gunfire that ensued shortly thereafter, resulting in the officer's injury, as well as the suspect being taken into custody, Lee said. He said investigators believe there was only one shooter, and there is no ongoing danger to the public.

We really cannot at this time speak to any motivation behind it, Lee said, calling any speculation premature.

I cannot stress enough how traumatic this event is for the community at large, as well as for those that were witnesses, or are the families of those involved or involved themselves, Lee said.

After the shooting, several witnesses stood in the rain outside the entrance to Macys  one of five large department stores at the mall  waiting to be interviewed by police or told they could leave. Patrol cars from several agencies, ambulances and fire trucks filled a section of the mall parking lot. Officers from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were assisting in the investigation.

About a quarter of a mile away, officers closed part of a road near a busy intersection so they could investigate a second crime scene related to the shooting incident. Officers at the second crime scene declined to answer questions about the investigation other than to confirm it was related to the shooting investigation.

Cheri Gypin, of Boise, was in the mall with a friend where they walk for an hour three or four times a week. She said she heard several large bangs, but thought something had fallen from the ceiling. Then about 60 people, including families pushing strollers, came running at them, some of them shouting that there was an active shooter.

My friend was trying to process it, said Gypin, 60. I just looked at her and said, Weve got to run. So we just ran and kept running until we got to the outer perimeter of the parking lot.

They made their way back to their car, where police told the crowd of people who had fled the mall to leave the parking area.

Investigators were working with hospital officials to notify family members of those injured and killed in the shooting, Lee said.

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean asked members of the public and the news media to give the victims and their families privacy as they deal with the trauma of the shooting. She thanked the law enforcement officers, first responders and others she said worked to keep the community safe.

Countless people found themselves in a situation they never would have or should have expected, McLean said, lauding the shopkeepers and others in the mall for reacting so quickly to take care of folks that were there. You showed in a tough and chaotic moment how much you care and what you're willing to do to support and care for strangers.

___

This story has been updated to correct that four people were injured, not six, as previously reported by police.
MILTON, Ga.  Kevin Muldowney is one of five residents who said at the Oct. 18 City Council meeting they want the council to revisit a proposal to have Milton run its own elections starting in 2022.

After hearing their concerns, Councilman Rick Mohrig requested that the matter be added to the Nov. 8 council work session agenda.

Kind of to formalize what weve been talking about so we can actually move forward or back away from it, Mohrig said.

The motion passed unanimously.

In August, a group of residents told the City Council they did not support the city entering into a contract with Fulton County to conduct its municipal elections, citing questions of integrity in the 2020 General Election and added costs in this years agreement.

Under the agreement, it will cost the city $84,000 to conduct the General Election. If a runoff is required, it will cost the city an additional $70,000, bringing the total to $154,000. The county is no longer reimbursing cities for ballots that are not cast by eligible voters.

Runoff elections in Milton typically draw less than 10% voter turnout.

A recent feasibility study has determined that it would cost Milton about $120,000 to oversee its own elections using paper ballots and seven ballot boxes. City Manager Steve Krokoff told the council it would take five years to break even, according to the study.

The council moved forward with the agreement with Fulton County, mainly because of the limited time and resources they had to prepare for the election on Nov. 2, but Muldowney said they should continue to pursue the matter to ensure Miltons voters are heard.

Other residents agreed.

As a citizen of Milton, I believe we should fire Fulton County from running our municipal elections, Nia Corsten said. The direct outcome would be better local elections with trusted results. Furthermore, they will be run much more efficiently and transparently.  This isnt a political issue nor is it a Democrat or Republican issue. This is simply being good stewards of our taxpayer dollars.

Corsten referenced an internal audit that was released in August, showing 10 administrative and fiscal mismanagement issues by Fulton Countys elections board during the 2020 election cycle.

They include a lack of standard operating procedures in the department, inconsistent procurement procedures, untimely payment of invoices, improper payment of services, inadequate safeguarding of assets and inadequate departmental accountability and oversight of financial transactions. The audit also noted one concern over the misclassification of expenditures.

Pull Quote Although the county tries to convince us this would cost us more, we all know that Fulton County has no real concern or care for what things cost. Robert Pedro, Milton resident

Additionally, Linda Garland referenced the recent firing of two Fulton County election workers for allegedly shredding 300 paper voter registration applications shortly before the start of early voting on Oct. 12. The case has since been referred to Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis.

Some of those 300 votes could have easily included Milton city citizen votes, Garland said.

Robert Pedro said he would like to see Milton implement paper balloting if it ever does manage its own elections.

Although the county tries to convince us this would cost us more, we all know that Fulton County has no real concern or care for what things cost, Pedro said. Since they have not trued up the cost of past local elections, Im sure that Milton can do it both more efficiently and more cost-effectively while also restoring integrity and confidence to the process.

None of the residents who spoke during the meeting presented a plan.

Despite the internal audit and firing of election workers, Superior Court Judge Brian Amero dismissed a lawsuit against members of the Fulton County Election Board Oct. 13 which alleged there were fraudulent mail-in ballots cast in the 2020 presidential election.

Amero said the lawsuit lacked standing. It was the last remaining major lawsuit over the states 2020 election. The day before the ruling, Georgia investigators also told the court they were unable to find any evidence of fraudulent ballots.
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YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. The State Minister of the Republic of Artsakh Artak Beglaryan participated in the annual assembly and charity dinner of the Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) in Fresno, California, the State Ministers office said in a news release.

He addressed the participants with a special message.

In his remarks, Beglaryan highly appreciated AMAAs decades of charitable activities in Artsakh, characterizing it as "demanded and effective" especially in social and educational sectors.

State Minister Artak Beglaryan comprehensively presented the current political and humanitarian state in Artsakh, as well as the future-oriented approaches and programs.

He underscored the Armenian Diasporas significant role in Artsakhs past, expressing certainty that the united efforts of all Armenians around the world will continue in the direction of the future restoration and development. State Minister Beglaryan stressed that their expectations from the Diaspora arent as much as material ones as in the form of human capital, which can create serious opportunities for the long-term development and strengthening.

Beglaryan noted that the people of Artsakh are resolute in living and creating in their own homeland, stressing that albeit through long and difficult struggle it will be possible to reach a final resolution of the Azerbaijani-Karabakhi conflict and the international recognition of the independence of Artsakh.

AMAA Executive Director and CEO Zaven Khanjian said in his remarks that they will expand their programs in Artsakh and the raised funds will be directed especially for social and educational programs.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. Parliament is holding a closed discussion on the situation at the Armenia-Azerbaijan line of contact and demarcation issues.

The First Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Armenian Armed Forces Kamo Kochunts and the Commander of the National Security Service Border Troops Arman Maralchyan are expected to participate in the discussion.

The closed-format discussion is initiated by opposition lawmakers.

Editing and Translating by Stepan Kocharyan
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. President of Armenia Armen Sarkissian sent a congratulatory letter to President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev on re-election, the Armenian Presidents Office said.

The victory in elections in particular shows that the people of Uzbekistan greatly support your policy aimed at the countrys comprehensive development and upgrading, the economic rise, the peoples welfare and the strengthening of stability in the region.

I am confident that with joint efforts the cooperation between Armenia and Uzbekistan will further strengthen and develop, covering new, prospective areas, the Armenian President said in the letter.

Editing and Translating by Aneta Harutyunyan
YEREVAN, OCTOBER 26, ARMENPRESS. Australian MP John Alexander referred to the provocative attacks of Azerbaijan against Artsakh in the Australian House of Representatives, ARMENPRESS was informed from the Armenian National Committee of Australia.

In his speech to parliament on 26th October 2021, John Alexander said: When I visited Artsakh in 2019, I was struck by the normality of the place in an area constantly threatened by its neighbour. I was amazed by the hardiness and resilience of the people in the towns I visited.



But just a year later we saw tragic images of roads clogged with refugeesa direct juxtaposition of images taken nearly 100 years earlier of the victims of the Armenian genocide, added Alexander, who is also Chair of the Australian Parliaments Standing Committee on Infrastructure, Transport and Cities.

Alexander also expressed concern over the ongoing humanitarian and political crisis unfolding as a result of Azerbaijan's attacks against the Armenian homeland last year.



Since then I have heard reports of 100,000 Armenian civilians being uprooted from their homes, 5,000 having been killed and hundreds of Armenians having been imprisoned. The fighting must stop. The ceasefire must hold, Alexander said. When states talk of war, it's always the people on the ground who suffer, the people of Artsakh.



The Armenian National Committee of Australias (ANC-AU) Executive Director, Haig Kayserian welcomed Alexander's timely public intervention.



One year since unleashing 44 days of terror against Armenians before agreeing to a supposed ceasefire, Azerbaijan continues to occupy Artsakh while encroaching on sections of the Republic of Armenia, said Kayserian.



This is particularly why our community thanks and appreciates Mr. John Alexanders awareness-raising in Australias parliament, he added.



Earlier this week, Australias former Defence Minister, Joel Fitzgibbon MP similarly rose in the Federal Parliament urging the Australian Government to publicly condemn Azerbaijan's belligerent conduct against the peaceful and democratic Republic of Artsakh.
YEREVAN, 26 OCTOBER, ARMENPRESS. Co-chaired by Deputy Prime Minister of Armenia Mher Grigoryan and UN Resident Coordinator Shombi Sharp, a regular meeting within the framework of the Platform for Coordination of Cooperation with Armenia Development Partners was held.



Ambassadors of a number of countries implementing support programs in Armenia and heads of Armenia Ofices of international organizations took part in the meeting.



As ARMENPRESS was informed from the office of the Deputy Prime Minister, considering that this is the first discussion in this framework after the formation of the Government, Deputy Prime Minister Mher Grigoryan presented to international partners the Governments Action Plan, its main guidelines and planned reforms. The Deputy Prime Minister mentioned that there is already serious cooperation in a number of fields, based on which it is possible to further deepen and extend the framework of joint programs. In particular, the directions of infrastructure, green economy and human capital development were highlighted. A reference was made to the necessity to consolidate efforts to meet modern challenges, emphasizing that a number of international partners have provided key assistance in overcoming crises. Public administration reform and the digitalization agenda were also highlighted

During the meeting Minister of Finance Tigran Khachatryan presented the main directions of the fiscal policy of the government and the ongoing measures of ensuring macroeconomic stability.



The international partners highly appreciated the conduct of discussions in this framework and continued the meeting in the format of questions and answers.
YEREVAN, 26 OCTOBER, ARMENPRESS. The Italian authorities will not allow Armenian citizens to enter the country for tourism due to the coronavirus, ARMENPRESS reports, Schengen Visa Info said.

In particular, it became known that Italy has removed a number of countries, including Armenia, from the D list of countries, whose citizens are allowed to visit Italy under certain conditions.

According to the recent list published by the Italian Ministry of Health, in addition to Armenia, Albania, Azerbaijan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brunei, Lebanon, Moldova, Montenegro, Northern Macedonia, Serbia, Taiwan, and Hong Kong have been removed from the D list of countries. All of these countries are now included in List E, which means that citizens of these countries will be allowed to enter Italy only for very strong purposes, in strict compliance with epidemiological rules.
As reported by JesusRoman in a tweet posted on October 24, the Institute Defense Technology of the Royal Thai Army supplied the artillery with an upgraded version of the 20-tube 122mm DTI-2 MLRS based on the Chinese-made Type 85 /YW306 from Norinco. In 2012, Thailand ordered 4 MLRS from China and received them in 2013. Firing tests were carried on by the Defense Technology Institute (DTI) since 2020.

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Rocket launcher system for DTI-2 122mm rockets mounted on Chinese-made Type 85/YW 306 MLRS delivered to the Thai artillery (Picture source: DTI)

The Type 85 series was developed by NORINCO in 1985, exclusively for the export market. For the Chinese army, a very similar Type 89 AFV was designed. The main user of the Type 85 series are the Royal Thai Armed Forces who received their first vehicles in 1987. In 1987, Thailand took delivery of the first of some 450 Type 85/YW 531 APCs. These had their Chinese 12.7 mm machine guns removed and replaced by a standard US .50 (12.7 mm) machine gun that was (and remains) standard on Thai tanks and APCs.

NORINCOs Type 85 Self-Propelled Artillery Rocket Launcher or Type YW306 carries a container/pod of 30 130mm rockets mounted on the roof. A total of 60 rockets is carried on board. Crew: 6.

Personnel of the Thai Defense Technology Institute prepare for a test-fire of DTI-2 122mm rocket from SR4 MLRS Multiple Launch Rocket System in 2020. (Picture source: DTI)

According to information published by the Defense Studies blog on September 5, 2020, Thailand's Defense Technology Institute conducted test-fires of local-made DTI-2 122mm rocket from Type 85 tracked APC (Armored Personnel Carrier and Chinese-made SR4 4x4 MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System) at Royal Thai Army Artillery Center Range, Lopburi province, in August of that year.

The DTI-2 seems to be the second generation of 122mm rocket developed by the Thai defense industry and the Thai Defence Technology Institute (DTI). It is the multiple launch rocket system research and development project designed and developed by DTI from the prior body of knowledge of the DTI-1 project. By the time that project was implemented during 2010-2014, DTI explored and analyzed research and knowledge development to design a 20-tube multiple rocket launcher system DTI-2, which is a 122 mm multiple ground rocket launcher with a 10 km firing range, and also developed tracked type launch platforms and a mockup of the rocket tube to serve a statistic and dynamic test.

In 2016, DTI had been continuously conducting research and development on the DTI-2 of the 122 mm rocket with different firing ranges for statistic and dynamic tests, carried out detailed design and blueprint drawing of the firing system with the provision of tools and equipment to accommodate the prototype of the 122 mm rocket with a 10 km firing range. DTI also developed the firing system and the inner tubes as stated in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Royal Thai Army and DTI at Kao Pu-Loan Artillery Center in Lopburi.

Two types of combat vehicles were used to test-fire the local-made DTI-2 122mm rocket including the T-85 based on the Chinese-made Type 85 tracked armored APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) also referred in China as Type YW 531 H (YW 306) and the SR4 4x4 MLRS (Multiple Rocket Launcher System) in service with the Thai army.

In November 2015, at Defense & Security Exhibition in Thailand, Defence Technology Institute has unveiled its new project of tracked mobile MLRS (Multiple Launch Rocket System) based on the Chinese-made APC Type 85 and using local-made rockets of 122mm.

Another MLRS model, the SR4 is a wheeled multiple launch rocket system developed by the Chinese defense industry. In 2012 Thailand ordered 4 of these artillery rocket systems, which were delivered in 2013. The SR-4 has two pods with 20 tubes each. It fires 122 mm artillery rockets.

Rocket launcher system for DTI-2 122mm rockets mounted on Chinese-made Type 85/YW 306 MLRS delivered to the Thai artillery (Picture source: DTI)

Test-fire of DTI-2 122mm rockets from an SR4 Multiple Launch Rocket System (Picture source: DTI)
The state is directed to file separate replies in the cases, the bench said and fixed the plea for further hearing on November 8

New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday directed the Uttar Pradesh government to grant protection to the witnesses of the Lakhimpur Kheri violence case in which eight people including four farmers were killed during a farmers' protest.

A bench headed by Chief justice N V Ramana asked the Uttar Pradesh government, represented by senior advocates Harish Salve and Garima Prasad, to record the statements of other relevant witnesses before judicial magistrates under section 164 of the CrPC.

We direct the District judge concerned to entrust the task of recording of evidence under section 164 of the CrPC to the nearest judicial magistrates available, said the bench which also comprised justices Surya Kant and Hima Kohli.

The bench asked Salve to to convey its concerns to forensic labs and experts on preparation of reports on electronic evidence of the incident.

The top court, meanwhile, asked the state government to also file its report on two complaints including the one related to the lynching of a journalist.

The state is directed to file separate replies in the cases, the bench said and fixed the plea for further hearing on November 8.

Observing that the probe into the Lakhimpur Kheri violence should not be an unending story, the Supreme Court on October 20 had rapped the government, saying the court was getting the impression that the state police was dragging its feet, and also ordered the protection of witnesses.
The company's revenue grew 35 per cent to USD 29.01 billion

In this April 14, 2020 file photo, the thumbs up Like logo is shown on a sign at Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park, California. (Photo: AP/File)

Menlo Park: Amid fallout from the Facebook Papers documents supporting claims that the social network has valued financial success over user safety, Facebook on Monday reported higher profit for the latest quarter.

The company's latest show of financial strength followed an avalanche of reports on the Facebook Papers  a vast trove of redacted internal documents obtained by a consortium of news organisations, including The Associated Press  as well as Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen's Monday testimony to British lawmakers.

Facebook said its net income grew 17 per cent in the July-September period to USD 9.19 billion, buoyed by strong advertising revenue.

That's up from USD 7.85 billion a year earlier. Revenue grew 35 per cent to USD 29.01 billion. The results exceeded analyst expectations for Facebook's results.

The company's shares rose 2.5 per cent in after-hours trading after closing up 1 per cent for the day.

For now, the revenue picture for Facebook looks as good as can be expected, said eMarketer analyst Debra Aho Williamson. But she predicted more revelations and described the findings so far as unsettling and stomach-churning.

CEO Mark Zuckerberg made only a brief mention of what he called the recent debate around our company."

Largely repeating statements he made after Haugen's October 5 testimony before a US Senate subcommittee, he insisted that he welcomes good faith criticism but considers the current storm a coordinated effort by news organisations to criticise the company based on leaked documents.

Haugen, meanwhile, told a British parliamentary committee Monday that the social media giant stokes online hate and extremism, fails to protect children from harmful content and lacks any incentive to fix the problems, providing momentum for efforts by European governments working on stricter regulation of tech companies.

While her testimony echoed much of what she told the US Senate this month, her in-person appearance drew intense interest from a British parliamentary committee that is much further along in drawing up legislation to rein in the power of social media companies.

Haugen told the committee of United Kingdom lawmakers that Facebook Groups amplifies online hate, saying algorithms that prioritize engagement take people with mainstream interests and push them to the extremes.

The former Facebook data scientist said the company could add moderators to prevent groups over a certain size from being used to spread extremist views.

Unquestionably, it's making hate worse, she said.

Haugen said she was shocked to hear recently that Facebook wants to double down on the metaverse and that they're gonna hire 10,000 engineers in Europe to work on the metaverse, Haugen said, referring to the company's plans for an immersive online world it believes will be the next big internet trend.

I was like, Wow, do you know what we could have done with safety if we had 10,000 more engineers?' she said.

Facebook says it wants regulation for tech companies and was glad the UK was leading the way.

While we have rules against harmful content and publish regular transparency reports, we agree we need regulation for the whole industry so that businesses like ours aren't making these decisions on our own," Facebook said Monday.

It pointed to investing USD 13 billion (9.4 billion pounds) on safety and security since 2016 and asserted that it's almost halved the amount of hate speech over the last three quarters.

Haugen accused Facebook-owned Instagram of failing to keep children under 13  the minimum user age  from opening accounts, saying it wasn't doing enough to protect kids from content that, for example, makes them feel bad about their bodies.

Facebook's own research describes it as an addict's narrative. Kids say, This makes me unhappy, I feel like I don't have the ability to control my usage of it, and I feel like if I left, I'd be ostracised, she said.

The company last month delayed plans for a kids' version of Instagram, geared toward those under 13, to address concerns about the vulnerability of younger users.

Haugen said she worried it may not be possible to make Instagram safe for a 14-year-old and that I sincerely doubt it's possible to make it safe for a 10-year-old.

She also said Facebook's moderation systems are worse at catching content in languages other than English, and that's a problem even in the UK because it's a diverse country.

Those people are also living in the UK and being fed misinformation that is dangerous, that radicalizes people, Haugen said.

And so language-based coverage is not just a good-for-individuals thing, it's a national security issue.

Pressed on whether she believes Facebook is fundamentally evil, Haugen demurred and said, I can't see into the hearts of men. Facebook is not evil, but negligent, she suggested.

It believes in a world of flatness, and it won't accept the consequences of its actions, pointing to its mammoth one-level, open-plan corporate office as an embodiment of the philosophy.

It was Haugen's second appearance before lawmakers after she testified in the US about the danger she says the company poses, from harming children to inciting political violence and fueling misinformation. Haugen cited internal research documents she secretly copied before leaving her job in Facebook's civic integrity unit.

The documents, which Haugen provided to the US Securities and Exchange Commission, allege Facebook prioritised profits over safety and hid its own research from investors and the public.

Some stories based on the files have already been published, exposing internal turmoil after Facebook was blindsided by the January 6 US Capitol riot and how it dithered over curbing divisive content in India. More is to come.

Representatives from Facebook and other social media companies plan to speak to the British committee Thursday.

UK lawmakers are drafting an online safety bill calling for setting up a regulator that would hold companies to account when it comes to removing harmful or illegal content from their platforms, such as terrorist material or child sex abuse images.

Haugen is scheduled to meet next month with European Union officials in Brussels, where the bloc's executive commission is updating its digital rulebook to better protect internet users by holding online companies more responsible for illegal or dangerous content.

Under the UK rules, expected to take effect next year, Silicon Valley giants face an ultimate penalty of up to 10 per cent of their global revenue for any violations. The EU is proposing a similar penalty.
Petrol and diesel prices have remained unchanged for two consecutive days now and the last spike was witnessed on Sunday

Indian Youth Congress (IYC) activists during a protest against the recent price hike of fuel, diesel and the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder near India's petroleum minister Hardeep Singh Puri's home, in New Delhi. (PTI)

New Delhi: Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri on Tuesday said that India is holding talks with crude oil-producing nations like Saudi Arabia and Russia.

"We are working on various levels... I am talking to my counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Gulf countries and Russia," said Hardeep Singh Puri on being asked about the rising fuel prices.

Petrol and diesel prices have remained unchanged for two consecutive days now. The last spike was witnessed on Sunday.

With a hike of Rs 0.35, the price of petrol in the national capital increased to Rs 107.59 per litre. The price of diesel also saw a hike of Rs 0.35 in Delhi thereby amounting to Rs 96.32 per litre on Sunday.

Petrol price in Mumbai stands at Rs 113.46 per litre, while diesel rates are Rs 104.38.

In Chennai, petrol and diesel cost Rs 104.52 and Rs 100.59 per litre respectively.

As for Kolkata, the price of petrol is Rs 108.11 per litre, while diesel is Rs 99.43 per litre.

Rates have been increased across the country and differ from state to state depending on the incidence of value-added tax.
The injured were taken to SMHS hospital where their condition is stated to be stable

Terrorists hurled a grenade upon the Army convoy near bus stand Sumbal which missed the target and exploded on road side. (Representational image: PTI)

Srinagar: Six civilians, including a woman, were injured in a grenade attack by terrorists in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, police said.

"At about 10:20 am, terrorists hurled a grenade upon the Army convoy near bus stand Sumbal which missed the target and exploded on road side," a police official said.

The explosion caused injuries to six civilians, the official said.

The injured were taken to SMHS hospital where their condition is stated to be stable, he added.
On August 7, 2020, the SII, the countrys largest private vaccine manufacturer, signed an agreement with the global vaccine alliance GAVI

India has administered one billion, or 100 crore, doses of the Covid-19 vaccines, and this is a fine achievement. Where did these 100 crore doses come from and what was the role of the Indian government in procuring them? This needs to be properly understood.

On August 7, 2020, the Serum Institute of India (SII), the countrys largest private vaccine manufacturer, signed an agreement with the global vaccine alliance GAVI and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to supply vaccines to 92 poor countries by the first half of 2021. The total number of vaccines the SII would produce in 2021 of Covishield, that is a version of the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine first developed in Britain, would be 100 crores (or 1 billion) doses. This would be distributed among the 92 nations with a total population of four billion.

The alliance said that: A founding principle of Covax (Covid Vaccine Global Access) is that the access will be equitable. That doesnt just mean ensuring that all countries get fair access to Covid-19 vaccines, it also means having an allocation mechanism, driven by the World Health Organisation (WHO), to guide how vaccines are distributed within countries and territories. The GAVI alliance would also sell the vaccine produced by SII to rich nations, and use that money given upfront to ramp up production in India.

On September 26, 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi told the United Nations General Assembly that India would deliver vaccines to the world: As the largest manufacturer of vaccines in the world, I want to assure the world that Indias vaccine production and delivery capacity will be put to help pull out all of humanity from this calamity. India would also help other nations with cold chain and storage facilities. After this speech the media called Mr Modi the worlds Vaccine Guru.

By September 30, 2020, SII had been given $300 million (a little more than Rs 2,500 crore) by GAVI to set up the infrastructure to deliver these doses. The same week, SIIs owner, Adar Poonawalla, tweeted to Prime Minister Modi: Quick question; will the Government of India have Rs 80,000 crore available, over the next one year? Because thats what @MoHFW_INDIA (the health ministry) needs, to buy and distribute the vaccine to everyone in India. This is the next concerning challenge we need to tackle. @PMOIndia. He then added: I ask this question, because we need to plan and guide, vaccine manufacturers both in India and overseas to service the needs of our country in terms of procurement and distribution. If India wanted to vaccinate its entire population in 2021, it would need to procure the vaccines from somewhere. The government did not do anything.

Till February 2021, India had ordered only 11 crore doses while it required 200 crore doses for the eligible population, or 270 crore doses for all Indians, including those under 14, assuming there was no wastage. Compare Indias 11 crore to the numbers ordered and paid for by Canada (33 crore), the US (120 crore), UK (45 crore), Brazil (23 crore), African Union (67 crore), Indonesia (19 crore) and the European Union (180 crore). India ordered fewer doses than even Australia (12 crore), which has a population smaller than Indias National Capital Region. At the end of March 2021, as the second wave began, India unofficially blocked SII from exporting vaccines to GAVI that had already been paid for, and grabbed them. Soon after, SII owner Adar Poonawalla fled to London because of threats from Indias most powerful people.

In May, the Wall Street Journal summed it up: Most of the worlds poorest nations were left highly dependent on a single vaccine, produced by a single manufacturer in a single country. In a cruel twist, that supplier  the Serum Institute of India  ended up engulfed by the worlds worst Covid-19 outbreak. Because of this, GAVI, which had already paid upfront for the vaccines, did not get its deliveries. In a letter to 92 developing nations, GAVIs head wrote: Dear Participant, we regret to inform you that, given the heightened Covid-19 crisis in India, Covax no longer expects deliveries  When asked whether the strategy to depend on India was flawed, he said: We hear a lot of criticism, and the truth is, weve tried to do something that we think is the right thing. Hindsights 20:20.

Should we have not invested in India? Well, that was the fastest way to get there. Not only was it not the fastest way, it turned out to have sabotaged the global fight because of the mess India was in by April. SII was due to ship 14 crore doses by this time but was stopped by the government after it had sent fewer than two crore. Far from being the Vaccine Guru and saving the world, India disrupted what others had planned for, paid for and organised. This month, the government said it would now allow SII to resume exports.

This is then the story of the 100 crore vaccines. We should be relieved that we got the doses but we must also know where they came from and who was and who was not responsible for this achievement.
Little is told about regions like Odisha and Bengal, while Assam hardly figures

History invariably is written and rewritten to serve the political and ideological cause of the ruling elites. No wonder Winston Churchill had said: Gentlemen, history will be kind to us  we will write it!

Take Indian history as it is being taught in our schools today. It is the history of the vanquished. It is mostly a chronological scroll down of events in the Indo-Gangetic plain. The textbooks start with the Indus Valley Civilisa-tion and after that remain largely focused on the consecutive onslaughts and occupations of India from the northwest.

Like the Aryans, Greeks, Bactrians, Huns, Afghans, Persians, Arabs, Uzbeks, Mongols and Turks, not necessarily in that order, all of whom entered through its northwest and stayed to leave their respective imprimaturs on India.

The other part of the story covers the Europ-ean era and Indias freedom struggle, which is mainly the story of the Indian National Congress. These invasions, subjugations, prolonged residence and assimilation broadly constitute the history of India, whoever it is written by and for, that is imparted to us.

As a young student in a Catholic school, in recently Independent India, the first history lessons imparted to me told that story, particularly the period of the last occupation by the British, somewhat differently. According to this, British rule was a most benign and beneficial period for Indians. This could even be true for social reforms like the abolition of sati and the building of great canal systems and the railways happened during this period.

The unification of India into one great political entity also happened in this period. Above all, southern India came under Delhis imperial rule for the first time. On the converse side, todays heroes like Tipu Sultan were cruel and callous tyrants, and what happened in 1857 was a most perfidious mutiny in which English women and children were raped and murdered by rampaging hordes of mutinous soldiers and freebooters. In 1957, the centennial celebrations of the First Indian War of Independence happened and I suddenly discovered that what my history textbook was having me believe was wrong.

Whatever be the version of history that emerges, that of the RSS or that of Romilla Thapar, Irfan Habib and others, what will still remain is a history focused on the people of the Indo-Gangetic plain. And that is my real grouse. Take, for instance, the two volumes of The History of India by Percival Spear and Romilla Thapar. Of the twenty-four chapters, twenty-one are about the peoples who either lived in or kept conquering the Indo-Gangetic plain.

South Indian history, which is fairly distinct and certainly more glorious than the tales of defeat after defeat in northern India, gets only three chapters. And mind you, the Deccan region now accounts for almost forty per cent of Indias population. Little is told about regions like Odisha and Bengal, while Assam hardly figures. Of course, as can be expected, there is not very much written about the original and autochthonous pre-Aryan and pre-Dravidian people.

If Spear and Thapar are reticent about acknowledging the role of other regions in the shaping of modern India, A.L. Basham and S.A.A. Rizvi in their two-volume effort The Wonder That Was India have even less space for other regions and their contribution to the composite culture and the multi-dimensional character of the Indian nation. Rizvis volume covering the period 1200-1500AD is so single-minded that it is entirely devoted to the Muslim rule over parts of India. Quite clearly, if Indian society has to be inclusive, all its various peoples must share a common perspective of the past. This is not so at present and hence, to my mind at least, the history textbooks need to be rewritten.

What then needs to be debated is what should this history be, for facts cannot be altered and the past cannot be wished away. The Communists are past masters at airbrushing out people and rewriting history to suit each regime. Official photographs of the collective leadership immediately after the demise of Lenin, as Stalin kept consolidating his control, saw the progressive elimination of historical figures from history. No Trotsky, no Zinoviev, no Martov, no anybody who Stalin did away with. Similarly in China few would now hear about Lin Biao, who Mao Zedong anointed as his successor.

The written history of India is quite ethnocentric and focused mainly on Manus Aryavarta, which by the ancient lawgivers own description did not extend south of the Vindhyas. Beyond the pale of Aryavarta was the land of the non-people and the legends of the Indo-Gangetic plains fully reflect these primitive attitudes.

This northern bias manifests itself in several ways, sometimes with great economic consequences. The tourism industry in India is mostly about Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. True, the stupendous beauty of the Taj Mahal is a great magnet that draws tourists into India from all over the world. But the profligacy of the Mughals and the collaborationist desert kingdoms of Rajasthan cannot be Indias only attractions, without the almost exclusive promotion of these by the government and the tourism trade. So much so that the past that can still been seen in places of great historical importance like Badami, Vijayanagar, Belur and Halebid in Karnataka, Warangal in Andhra Pradesh and Kanchipuram, Madurai and Tanjore in Tamil Nadu do not have half decent facilities to encourage tourism. Even Bijapur with its great Gol Gumbaz and gigantic mosque does not have a half decent hotel or any worthwhile facilities for tourists. If the battles of Panipat are important in the history of northern India, the battle of Talikota determined the final fate of the great Vijayanagar kingdom with the defeat of its powerful army by the forces of the Muslim confederacy. There is not even a marker at Talikota suggesting a battlefield consecrated with so much blood and so much valour.

The great Mughal army commanded by Raja Jaisingh was decisively defeated in a great naval battle on the vast Bramhaputra at Saraighat by the Asom forces of Lachit Barphukan. Let alone a marker at Saraighat, even Lachit Barphukan does not figure in our written history.

So, by all means rewrite our history. That task is long overdue. Till then written Indian history will remain just what it is, a compendium of defeats.
Story Timelines

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Graveside services for Dorothy Clarice "Dottie" Cross 86, of Athens have been scheduled for 2 p.m. Monday November 22, 2021 at Oaklawn Memorial Park with Bro. Cody Craig officiating. Arrangements are under the direction of Autry's Carroll-Lehr Funeral Home. Mrs. Cross passed away November 18
In this application, the 4.4-liter mill develops 523 horsepower (530 PS) and 553 pound-feet (750 Nm) of torque. Lesser models feature the straight-six Ingenium with mild-hybrid or plug-in hybrid assistance. The straight-six Ingenium mild-hybrid turbo diesel is also offered in three states of tune.Come 2024, and the British automaker intends to release an electric powertrain. Thats a really tall order for Jaguar Land Rover , which isnt exactly the most experienced company in terms of battery-electric vehicles. But nevertheless, it should be a fine choice because of the Jaguar Land Rover MLA-Flex vehicle platform that offers normal- and long-wheelbase body options with luxurious four seats, regular five seats, or a seven-seat interior configuration.Evolutionary would be the best word to describe the looks of the fifth generation, which carries the L460 codename. The familiar headlamps and front grille are complemented by a familiar profile and very bold styling for the rear end. I really dig it. Something I cant get my head around is the poor integration of the 13.1-inch display of the infotainment system.Complemented by a 13.7-inch digital instrument cluster and a four-spoke steering wheel, the infotainment system is joined by available touchscreens for the second-row passengers. Meridian audio, Amazon Alexa capability, over-the-air software updates, active noise cancellation, standard rear-wheel steering, and iAWD also need to be mentioned. The Intelligent Driveline Dynamics (IDD) system controls the intelligent all-wheel drive, which monitors grip levels and driver inputs 100 times per second.Also standard is the active rear differential. No fewer than four trim levels will be offered in the first instance: the SE, HSE, Autobiography, and First Edition. Excluding destination charge, the most affordable configuration kicks off at $104,000 in the United States of America. The P530 SE, which features the aforementioned twin-turbo V8 powerplant sourced from BMW, is available from $118,700, while the P530 First Edition LWB is $163,500. Later on, as in the 2023 model year, the Range Rover SV will roll out with a four-seat arrangement and two design themes: Serenity and Intrepid.
It's very rare that we get a brand new Corvette Z06 and in fact, the new C8 Z06 is a type of car that we've never seen Chevrolet build. With a flat-plane crank V8 placed behind the driver's head, we expect grand things.We think some will be happy and others dismayed that the 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 will make 660 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. That's up on horsepower, by ten on the exiting Z06. But it's down on torque by a mighty 180 ft-lbs.GM Authority rightly points out in their report that this is a dramatically different engine than the preceding powerplant. First, it's naturally aspirated. The supercharger on the old small block literally made power gains easier. In addition, the new engine revs a further 1,600 RPMs higher, up to 8600, than the old car.We expect that while torque is down, this certainly won't be the end of the line for the Z06. More power will come in the next few years. Surely, someone in the aftermarket will strap a supercharger or a pair of turbos to this thing too In many ways, the new C8 Corvette might feel like a small step back but keep in mind that it's ultimately going to take two steps forward. The new Corvette has already proven to be one of the best driver's cars available on the market. It's also one of the most attainable.We expect the new Z06 to come with a standard widebody package, wider wheels, and sticky Michelin tires at all corners. A special Z07 package should be available at launch with more track-focused equipment. That should include sticker rubber, lighter wheels, and a more aggressive aero. We look forward to the full reveal later today.
The announcement is semi-official, as it doesnt come directly from the company, but from Szymon Soltysik, the Mazda Poland chief of PR, who was reportedly quoted by AutoKatalog as confirming the demise of the CX-3 before the end of the year.We are finishing accepting orders for the Mazda CX-3 . The last units for Europe will be produced in December, Soltysik said. Motor1 claims to have confirmed the information in a phone call with Mazda Germany. At the same time, we reached out to the auto firm as well and will be updating this story when (or if) they reply.Does this news come as a surprise? Well, then you forgot about the CX-30 . You see, the latter is also a subcompact crossover, which has been offered next to the CX-3 for the last two years or so. As a result, Mazda wont be left without a rival to the likes of the Nissan Juke, Peugeot 2008, Opel Mokka, and other such vehicles, as that role will be taken by the CX-30.The latter is also on sale in the United States, in quite a few trim levels. The lineup includes the 2.5 S, Select, Preferred, Premium, 2.5 Turbo, 2.5 Turbo Premium, and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus. Pricing kicks off at $22,050, before destination and dealer fees, for the base variant of the car, and goes up to at least $34,050 for the range-topper.As for the rest of the CX range, it will grow considerably over the next couple of years.
It would appear the global switch to EVs is playing a significant role in the decisions of multi-billion dollar business conglomerates. One of these happens to own one of the biggest oil companies in the world.The Dutch ABP Holdings is one of the largest pension funds entities on the planet. But outside retirement investments, the company also holds a significant stake in Royal Dutch Shell, commonly shortened to Shell. ABP, which primarily handles investments from civil service workers and teachers, announced it would have sold off all of its 15 billion in stock shares of Shell by the first quarter of 2023.Regulations and a greater understanding of the environmental impact of fossil fuels have shaped the policy of nations and corporations the world over in recent times. Now, ABPs made the radical decision to divest all of its fossil fuel holdings just months after itd said that it has no plans to offload any of its investments in Shell Oil Threats of legal action and potential sanctions should the company continue to refuse likely had a role in this change of attitude, although ABP claims that threats of legal demands had no bearing on the change in attitude. Pension investment firms like ABP have seen a newfound drive to consider the social responsibility of the investments themselves and their clients make. Across the ocean in Canada, CDPQ, the nations largest pension investment agency, announced it too would be dumping C$400 billion in fossil fuel investments by the end of 2022.Its a sign that the stranglehold the fossil fuel industry has had on investment opportunities over the last century will not sustain itself for much longer. If companies like ABP and CDPQ are deciding to ditch these investments in favor of eco-friendly technology, its a sign that big corporations are finally getting the hint that the real money isnt in the oil business anymore, like it has been for almost a century.
We are launching the first #offshore wind turbine blade facility at the Port of Virginia, U.S. ????#leadingtheoffshorerevolution @DominionEnergy pic.twitter.com/2Ii0NtDbQt  Siemens Gamesa North America (@SiemensGamesaNA) October 25, 2021

Spanish/German wind turbine manufacturer Siemens Gamesa chose Portsmouth, Virginia as the location of the facility, where it will lease more than 80 acres (32 hectares) in order to support Dominion Energys Coastal Virginia Offshore Wind Commercial Project (CVOW).The CVOW is advertised as the future largest offshore wind farm in the United States, with construction for it being scheduled to begin in 2024 and end in 2026. This 2,640-megawatt project would be able to power 600,000 homes and will include 180 wind turbines that will be 800 ft (244 m) tall. The wind farm will be located in Hampton Roads, 27 miles off the coast of Virginia Beach.Siemens Gamesa says the Portsmouth facility will be used to make its patented offshore IntegralBlades and will create around 260 job opportunities when fully operational. An additional 50 service jobs will become available for providing maintenance services for the CVOW project. The Portsmouth Marine Terminal will eventually become an offshore wind hub with Siemens looking to expand its blade facility in the future.Virginia plans to only use carbon-free energy by 2045 and is taking determined steps in that direction. According to Governor Ralph S. Northam, Virginians want renewable energy and the Commonwealth is joining these companies to create the most important clean-energy partnership in the U.S. This is good news for everybody, from energy customers to union workers and the entire country, as more jobs will follow and economic growth will be driven.According to Reuters , up to seven offshore wind auctions will be held in the U.S. in the next four years, with president Biden setting a goal to make the power grid carbon-free by 2035. There are also 30 gigawatts of offshore wind energy goal to be met by 2030.
EV

SES, previously known as SolidEnergy Systems, is a Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) spin-off, founded in 2012. Whats different about thisbattery maker is that it has developed a different kind of battery, one that promises to be better than conventional Li-Ion batteries, in all aspects. The SES hybrid Li-Metal batteries are supposed to be capable of an 80% charge in less than 15 minutes and enable a longer range, thanks to the high energy density.Compared to conventional lithium-ion cells that can deliver up to 280 Wh/kg and 730 Wh/l, the SES batteries are estimated to deliver 400 Wh/kg and 1,000 Wh/L. Also, the companys proprietary AI algorithm is developed which huge amounts of data, which allow it to optimize battery performance, safety, and charging.Another major advantage of these batteries is that they dont require a dedicated production technology. According to SES, it has obtained over 15,000 multi-layer hybrid Li-Metal cells on its own production lines that are similar to those used for lithium batteries. This means that future large-scale production wont require additional costs when it comes to equipment.The company announced that it will be unveiling its innovative battery at the Battery World 2021 virtual event, taking place on November 3, in the U.S. Similar events will follow in South Korea and China, on November 4.SES will also announce plans to open the worlds largest Li-Metal battery production facility, which isnt surprising, considering that the battery maker is supported by big names in the industry, including GM, Hyundai, Geely, and Saic Motors.I am looking forward to sharing exciting announcements and growth plans that will catapult SES from a battery development company into a full-blown battery supplier over the next decade, said Dr. Qichao Hu, SES founder and CEO.
Late last week, following months of speculation on Bezos latest $500+-million toy and how he planned on getting a second superyacht to serve as shadow to this one, just so he could take a helicopter with him on cruises, the world got the first look at Y721 . Urban legends aside, this is a spectacular build even if this sailing yacht doesnt belong to Bezos (which is highly unlikely, given the strong industry buzz).More photos and videos of the sailing superyacht have been published online, too, offering a better appreciation of the monster vessel. One video is also available at the bottom of the page, while Boat International has an entire gallery of truly gorgeous pictures.Oceanco is keeping a very tight lid on the project, refusing to address the Bezos association in any way. The same media outlet notes that Y721 has left the shipyard on transport, on its way to fitting, so it wont be long before we see the build in its final form. Y721 was built piece by piece at Oceancos Zwijnenburg facility and was assembled in Zwijndrecht, shrouded in secrecy. Delivery  to Bezos or whoever the lucky owner is  will take place in 2022, after sea trials.Measuring 127 meters (417 feet), Y721 is believed to be based on the iconic Black Pearl , another Oceanco vessel (not Captain Sparrows ship in Pirates) and currently the worlds biggest DynaRig sailing yacht. Y721 also features a gleaming black hull with a bowsprit, spans several decks, and will have three masts for sailing. Once delivered, it will instantly set a few world records, including for the biggest sailing yacht in the world, the biggest vessel from the Oceanco shipyard, and the largest ship to ever come out of the Netherlands.
In 2004, Toyota started this project not knowing if someone would be interested enough to motivate their children on the car-design path. Yet, nowadays, this competition takes place in 90 countries worldwide. The United States entered the contest in 2012, and it has grown in popularity ever since. There are three categories taken into account, depending on children's ages: 4-7 years old, 8-11 years old, and 12-15 years old. Toyota created this contest to inspire creativity for them and gives three awards for each age category.All the winning artworks from the 90 countries involved in the project will go to Japan, where the carmaker will make a world contest for young artists.Starting with November 1, the parents or legal guardians may upload children's artwork on the Toyota Dream Car USA Art Contest website, using the dedicated platform. All participants have to be legal residents of the 50 United States and the District of Columbia. The judgment is based on three criteria: execution, uniqueness, and artistry concept. Prizes consist of medals (gold, silver, and bronze) and cash. Submissions are accepted online or by mail until January 31, 2022.In addition, the Peterson Automotive Museum from Los Angeles (PAM), California, will give a special prize to one of the nine winners. Moreover, the museum will display the winning artwork. Terry L. Karges, executive director of the PAM, said, "We were so impressed with the creativity and array of social issues demonstrated by youth in last year's contest and can hardly wait to see what new dream cars come to life this year."Last year's Jerry Chen won the Petersen Prestige Award for its "Fly Higher with Toyota" artwork. With seven other 3D replicas showcased in the exhibition, 11 3D copies of the past winning projects completed a special gallery. So your kids' work might go there, but first, you have to submit it; let them dream!
kW

Ever since the 1940s, manufacturers have been researching the feasibility of jet engines in road-going vehicles. GM introduced a series of futuristic turbine-powered concept cars, beginning with the 1953 Firebird 1 . A decade later, Chrysler unleashed the Turbine Car on public roads, an experiment that ultimately failed. The next American-made vehicle to use such a powerplant took to the streets in 2000 and unlike its predecessors, it only had two wheels.The company behind this bundle of insanity is called Marine Turbine Technologies (MTT). Based in Louisiana, it has been around since 1903, designing, engineering, and testing high-performance turbines, primarily for marine and industrial applications.In the late 1990s, after developing some crazy jet-powered concepts to boost MTTs image, CEO Ted Mclntyre decided to add motorcycle production to the firms resume. Although the idea of strapping a couple of wheels and a handlebar to a turbine engine was pretty straightforward, MTT had no prior experience with building bikes. To solve this problem, Mclntyre hired Christian Travert, the man responsible for some of the most outrageous custom-built motorcycles the world has ever seen.By 1999, when Suzuki released the mighty Hayabusa , Travert and his team had finished developing the Y2K Turbine Superbike, and the company was ready for its official unveiling. Initially met with skepticism by bikers around the world who couldnt believe that this crazy machine was real and fully functional, it was successfully put to the test on several occasions, and a year later, MTT was already building and delivering road-legal units.This incredible piece of engineering was powered by a 250-C18 turboshaft engine initially designed by Allison in the U.S. but produced by Rolls-Royce since the British company acquired Allison in 1995.It was slightly modified for motorcycle use and could spit out 320 hp (240), almost twice the number of ponies that the Hayabusa could produce. Using a manual transmission was out of the question with all that raw power, so Travert opted for an automatic with two speeds. The engine was not fuel-efficient by any means, but it could run on a wide range of fuels, including diesel , vodka, or cologne.Riding the Y2K has been described as a unique yet extremely frightening experience. As soon as you turned the key in the ignition and pushed the starter button, the thunderous roar of the turbine engine normally heard on airport runways reminded you that this was the most insane street-legal superbike ever built.Those who were brave enough to try and push it to the limits managed to quickly achieve speeds of around 200 mph (322 kph). According to MTT, the fastest recorded speed was 227 mph (365 kph), but the company claimed that it could theoretically go even faster.Apart from the courage required to ride one, owning a Y2K required a lot of money. The starting price was $175,000 ($278,770 today), which was a Guinness world record for the most expensive motorcycle to ever go on sale.It was produced until 2005, and although MTT hasnt revealed the exact production figures, at one point, they struggled to keep up with demand. Each Y2K was custom-built to the customers specifications and the list of owners includes wealthy princes and kings from the Middle East as well as celebrities like Jay Leno who rode his Y2K on the streets of New York in the episode of Jay Lenos Garage that you can find below.For 2006, MTT revealed an even more outrageous version called Street Fighter. It was equipped with a Rolls-Royce 250-C20B engine that made 420 hp (310 kW). The same powerplant was used in the Y2Ks successor, the 420RR , which has been in production since 2015 and is also available as a trike.
SUV

With her name on Instagram appearing as Barbie, and calling her fans Barbz, its no surprise that Nicki Minaj really, really loves pink. Despite her choice of aggressive lyrics, the rapper has a soft side for cute, pastel colors.Sharing a set of pictures of her pink Rolls-Royce Cullinan , Nicki Minaj captioned it: Pull up in dat PINK Rose, not Moet tho ???? as she smiled big at the camera, leaning against herIn another video, Nicki sits behind the wheel of her luxurious SUV and talks up to some excited fans, giving us a glimpse of the interior of her Cullinan, which, naturally, includes a Starlight Headliner and red-colored leather seats. I have to admit, its quite a surprise the interior is not as flashy as the exterior, and Nicki really kept it more elegant on the inside.Two days ago, she posted a video in which she introduces her pink SUV which she says she calls Thing-thing, and revealed got the pink thing on top (meaning the Starlight Headliner) for when she drives around her baby, which Nicki calls him affectionately Papa Bear.Since Rolls-Royces are a big thing among celebrities nowadays and many own at least one, for status, comfort, or just for the brand, the female rapper couldnt miss being in on a trend.But this isnt the first pink car she owns since she applied the same pink treatment for her Lamborghini Aventador , and her Bentley Continental GT, which she calls Barbie Bentley. Sure, this might make some car lovers roll their eyes out there, but she has to stay on brand.Knowing her and her big personality, Nicki Minajs pink Rolls-Royce Cadillac is really on-brand, despite it might not be just everyones cup of tea.


To celebrate the momentous occasion, New York Governor Kathy Hochul sent out a celebratory tweet: The George Washington Bridge is more than just a bridge, it's an integral part of our region's economy. Congratulations on 90 years of service and happy birthday GWB, Hochul said on Twitter.



With this tweet, it was clear that New Yorks head of state was a native of Upstate New York and not New York City. Or her feeling towards the infamous bridge would be far less rosy.



The 4,760 foot (1,450 m) long 604 foot (65m) tall bridge that spans the Hudson River from Western Manhattan into Fort Lee in Eastern New Jersey began construction in 1927. The bridge was first opened to the public in 1931 and an extra lower level to the bridge was added in the late 1950s. It wouldnt take long to gain a notorious reputation.

Over the last nine decades, the bridge has been host to traffic jams that stretch for miles, dozens of fatal car accidents, and more than its fair share of suicides. The constant onslaught of traffic filled with drivers on the ragged edge of road rage makes police access to incidents on the bridge difficult and dangerous.Then, of course, theres the absolute unmitigated disaster thats come to be called Bridgegate, in which then New Jersey Governor Chris Christie ordered the New Jersey side of the GWBs upper level closed to the public without so much as a single warning given to motorists, or New York City authorities.Ostensibly done in the name of political warfare, the incident left a permanent stain on the career of Governor Christie and saw his aspirations for a presidential run in 2016 go up in smoke. Just another piece of collateral damage for a bridge that is constantly at the center of controversy.Its just another chapter in the history of a bridge undoubtedly vital to the hustle and bustle of NYC life, but also a pain in the rear end for anyone who dares drive across it. On top of that, drivers have to pay $16 to get from New Jersey to New York, just for the privilege to drive over it. Don't you dare consider not paying the toll or the City of New York will make you regret ever driving within eyeshot of the bridge.
For years Canadian officials prioritized trade with China and ignored warnings from Chinese Canadians that the Chinese government presented a serious political and moral challenge, a Canadian journalist argues in a new book.

Why it matters: An earlier response by democratic governments could have relieved the pressure on Chinese diaspora communities and sent a strong message to Beijing that exporting authoritarianism wouldn't be tolerated.

Details: In her book "China Unbound: A New World Disorder," Canadian journalist and former China correspondent Joanna Chiu offers a globe-trotting view of China's ties with Canada, Australia, the U.S., Greece, Italy, Turkey and Russia.

Chiu finds governments and societies often oversimplify narratives regarding China  some Americans, for example, believe the Chinese Communist Party poses an unambiguous existential threat, and some Italian politicians claim Chinese investment can save the country's failing economy. The truth is rarely so black and white.

Anti-Chinese racism, too, has been overly simplified and insufficiently understood, Chiu states. Tougher policies and confrontational rhetoric on China can make the lives of people in AAPI communities in western countries more difficult.

But western leaders might have become aware of Beijing's goals sooner if they hadn't prioritized narrow business interests and had instead paid attention when people of Chinese descent living in the west were harassed, censored, and unjustly detained for long periods of time in China, Chiu argues.

What she's saying: "Right now there's a narrative that goes, if you dont want to be racist and if you want to avoid further marginalizing the diaspora, then you shouldn't say or do anything about Beijings actions. But that actually erases decades of warnings and diverse lived experiences of people in the diaspora," Chiu told me in an interview.

Concern about the erasure of Chinese diaspora perspectives is widely held among researchers who study the Chinese Communist Party's political interference activities abroad.

In her reporting, Chiu spoke with Chinese students living in Canada who faced threats from China's security services and surveillance from the Chinese embassy, part of an overseas expansion of the Chinese Communist Party's influence arm the United Front Work Department.

She also spoke with a Chinese Canadian community leader whose years of grassroots work to get Chinese Canadian voices heard was drowned out by a new organization with an almost identical name that was supported by the Chinese embassy and that tended to issue press releases making opposite claims.

When Chiu tried to report threats made against her in Canada for reports she had published about Xinjiang, a spokesperson for Canadas Minister of Public Safety told Chiu the government takes threats to the security of individuals living in Canada very seriously and said people should report incidents to local police.

Driving the news: Canada-China ties are up in the air after a nearly three-year diplomatic standoff finally ended just weeks ago with Canada's release of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou, wanted by the U.S. for fraud charges, and China's subsequent release of Canadian political hostages Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor.

Chiu knew Kovrig personally and was relieved at his release. But in an August article, she also criticized Canada's lack of a response when in previous years, Canadian citizens of Chinese descent had been similarly detained in China. "If China hadnt targeted white Canadians, would Chinese-Canadian relations be business as usual?" Chiu asked.

Background: Anti-Chinese sentiment spiked globally during the COVID pandemic, but it's nothing new. Chinese people have a long history of maltreatment at the hands of western countries, something Chiu's family has personally experienced.

Chiu's great-great-great-grandfather came to Canada in the 19th century, tricked into believing he could mine for gold, but instead found he was only permitted to do grueling manual labor for low pay on the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Discriminatory immigration policies made it nearly impossible for him to bring his family with him, so he ended up going back to China with few savings. Chiu herself was born in Hong Kong and came to Canada as a small child.

The bottom line: "What is needed is getting people in the diaspora into positions of influence and power, rather than using them as an excuse to continue with business as usual with China," Chiu told Axios.
Tennessee's top health official, Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey, told reporters Wednesday she is "cautiously optimistic" that the state was easing out of its latest COVID-19 surge.

By the numbers: Tennessee had a rolling seven-day average of 3,526 cases Tuesday, down from an average of 9,411 on Sept. 11.

Total hospitalizations fell to 2,636, a decrease from 3,831 on Sept. 9.

Why it matters: The state's health care system was at a breaking point at the height of the latest surge, when earlier this month Tennessee topped the nation in new COVID cases per capita. Cases trending down could offer the health system some much-needed relief.

Hundreds of National Guard members were deployed to hospitals and treatment centers to keep pace with demand.

At one point, state officials recommended limiting access to monoclonal antibodies to preserve the supply.

The latest: Piercey said the decline in demand coupled with an increase in supply kept the state from having to prioritize access to antibody treatments.

Yes, but: Low vaccination rates could keep downward trends from falling too far, one expert told Axios.

"This is not mission accomplished time," said William Schaffner, an infectious disease authority at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Low vaccination rates in Tennessee could lead to a period of "smoldering transmission," with continued spread keeping trendlines from bottoming out like they might elsewhere, Schaffner said.

For the record: Only 46% of Tennesseans are fully vaccinated, according to state data.

Piercey said boosting that number continues to be the state's priority.

She also expects to see children ages 5-11 become eligible for the Pfizer vaccine in the coming weeks.

Meanwhile: Pfizer booster shots are now widely available to adults across Tennessee. By Wednesday, the state reported more than 108,000 third doses had been administered.
The Biden administration has privately protested to the Israeli government over its plan to approve the planning and construction of more than 3,000 new housing units in the Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, sources briefed on the issue tell me.

Why it matters: The approvals for new homes in the settlements will be the first since President Biden assumed office, and come after Biden and his top aides personally pressed Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett to restrain settlement activity and decrease the number of new housing units.

There was a delay in the approval process after Bennett's visit to Washington in late August, but the Israeli Ministry of Defense ultimately announced its intention to approve even more new housing units than had previously been planned.

Behind the scenes: After that announcement, the top U.S. diplomat in Jerusalem, Michael Ratney, called Bennetts foreign policy adviser Shimrit Meir to complain about the move, in a call the sources described as "difficult."

Ratney said the U.S. objected in particular to the fact that most of the new housing units are in isolated settlements deep in the West Bank.

After the private message, the Biden administration criticized the Israeli move publicly but in a much lower tone.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on Tuesday announced a COVID-19 vaccine mandate for businesses, as the government pushes to reach a nationwide 90% vaccination target.

Why it matters: Under the new COVID-19 Protection Framework, businesses must require vaccine certificates from customers if they're in close contact with them. Ardern said at a briefing Tuesday that such venues wishing to operate, including hair salons, bars, restaurants and gyms, must ensure staff is vaccinated.

Unlike in the U.S., there are no religious exemptions. Fewer than 100 people in the population of 5 million are estimated to qualify as medically exempt from the Pfizer vaccine, currently the only brand offered in New Zealand.

The mandate affects about 40% of New Zealand's workforce, workplace relations minister Michael Wood said at the briefing.

Of note: NZ is phasing out its pandemic elimination strategy, which proved successful before the arrival of the Delta variant in August.

Auckland, New Zealand's most populous city and the center of the current outbreak, has been under lockdown restrictions since then.

It's due to exit lockdown and switch to the highest setting of a new "traffic light" system once all three of Auckland's District Health Boards have fully vaccinated 90% of the eligible population of residents over 12, expected by the end of November.

A tweet previously embedded here has been deleted or was tweeted from an account that has been suspended or deleted.

By the numbers: New Zealand's outbreak has grown to 1,209 active community cases as of Tuesday, the vast majority in Auckland.

28 people have died from the virus since the pandemic began.

The big picture: Auckland and COVID-19-affected parts of the Waikato region are under level 3 of NZ's four-tier restrictions, set under the elimination strategy. Nonessential businesses that have close contact with customers remain closed.

They're operating in the rest of the country under level 2 restrictions, with venue capacities capped.

Auckland is set to become the first region to experience the traffic light system, which enables businesses to operate under vaccine mandates  entering in the red setting. Other regions can join once they hit the 90% vaccination target.

What she's saying: "With the new traffic light system, businesses we previously treated as high risk like hospitality, hairdressers and gyms can operate at all levels if they ask customers for a vaccine certificate," Ardern said at the briefing of the threat these venues posed to the spread of the virus.

"If customers must be vaccinated, then so too must the workers."

 Ardern

Threat level: COVID-19 modeler Michael Plank, of New Zealand's University of Canterbury, said in a statement after the traffic light system was announced last week that the "red" setting "may not be enough to control a large outbreak that was threatening health care systems."

He recommended the government keep some of the stricter measures from the elimination strategy, such as localized lockdowns.

Maori and Pacific Islander leaders and health experts have expressed concern at the disproportionate effects of the pandemic among these populations.

Between the lines: Vaccination rates of Maori and Pacific Islanders have been lower than the general population.

Rhys Jones, a lecturer in Maori Health at the University of Auckland, expressed concern in a statement that the vaccine had been rolled out to "systematically privileged non-Maori, non-Pacific populations," putting indigenous Maori in particular at risk.

They've been let down by successive governments and faced systemic barriers in NZ's health system for decades. Consequently, there's been a distrust of governments.

Yes, but: These populations are younger, so vaccination rates have been rising as the rollout continues.

Editor's note: This article has been updated with comment from Jones and further context.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) does not plan on stalling the confirmation of President Biden's ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, as he has done with dozens of other State Department nominees, according to a source familiar with the decision.

Why it matters: Burns, a former career diplomat widely viewed as one of Biden's most qualified nominees, will be tasked with managing the president's defining foreign-policy challenge: preventing "intense competition" with China from spiraling into outright conflict.

Cruz's decision not to delay Burns' confirmation, which was first reported by Bloomberg, reflects the bipartisan consensus that the threat posed by an increasingly assertive Chinese government is too important to ignore.

The U.S. has not had a Senate-confirmed ambassador to China in more than a year.

The big picture: Cruz launched his campaign to stall every State Department nominees after Biden waived sanctions on Nord Stream 2, a Russia-to-Germany gas pipeline that the administration itself has called a "Kremlin geopolitical project."

Democrats and members of the Biden administration have been intensely critical of Cruz, arguing that his tactics are hurting U.S. national security interests.

Biden is far behind his predecessors when it comes to the rate at which his ambassadorial nominees have been confirmed.

Worth noting: A spokesperson for Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), who has vowed to block Biden's national security nominees over the administration's handling of the Afghanistan withdrawal, told Axios that the senator has not made a decision on Burns' confirmation.

"Senator Hawley has said he will hold leadership positions in the State Department and the Defense Department. He does not have a blanket hold on ambassadors. He is still reviewing Nicholas Burns nomination," the spokesperson said.

Go deeper: Highlights from Burns' Senate testimony on China
The incident occurred during a heated debate in the National Assembly on opposition demands for a parliamentary inquiry into the alleged misuse of funds collected by a government-backed pan-Armenian charity for Nagorno-Karabakh during last years war with Azerbaijan.

Vigen Khachatrian, a deputy from the ruling Civil Contract party, accused the parliamentary opposition of trying to discredit the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund and the Armenian government with various abominations.

Gegham Manukian of the main opposition Hayastan alliance responded by recalling and condemning Khachatrians recent remark that continued Armenian control over Karabakh is not vital for Armenia.

He who renounces Artsakh (Karabakh) is a traitor, Manukian charged on the parliament floor.

Ruben Rubinian, the parliaments pro-government deputy speaker chairing the session, accused Manukian of breaching ethical rules before switching off his microphone and ordering uninformed officers of the State Protection Service (SPS) to forcibly remove the prominent oppositionist from the podium. The session was interrupted as a result.

Manukian stood by his statement and accused the authorities of trying to stifle free speech in the parliament when he spoke with journalists after the incident.

Alen Simonian, the parliament speaker and a leading member of the ruling party, routinely interrupted and reprimanded opposition deputies strongly criticizing Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian during sessions of the National Assembly held in August.

Simonian claimed that they insulted Pashinian. He ordered SPS officers to remove from the chamber one of those lawmakers who continued to attack the prime minister on August 24.

Hayastan and another opposition group represented in the current parliament have accused the authorities of illegally restricting free speech on the parliament floor for the first time in Armenias post-Soviet history.

The SPS is a security agency primarily tasked providing bodyguards to Armenias top state officials. Scores of its uniformed officers were deployed inside the parliament building this summer.

They set up checkpoints and placed metal detectors at the entrances to the main parliament auditorium. Acting on Simonians orders, they also made sure that parliamentary correspondents can no longer interview deputies coming out of the chamber or approach the offices of lawmakers representing Pashinians party.
The parliaments two opposition factions demanded such a briefing immediately after Azerbaijani authorities began levying on September 12 hefty duties from Iranian vehicles passing through an Azerbaijani-controlled section of the main highway connecting Armenia and Iran. They said Defense Minister Arshak Karapetian and National Security Service (NSS) Director Armen Abazian must come to the National Assembly to answer their questions.

The parliaments leadership took more than a month to organize the discussion. Deputies representing the Hayastan and Pativ Unem blocs as well as the ruling Civil Contract party were briefed by Kamo Kochunts, the first deputy chief of the Armenian armys General Staff, and Arman Maralchian, the commander of Armenian border guards.

Pativ Unems Taguhi Tovmasian walked out of the chamber midway through the session. She said the generals refused to provide new information on the grounds that they cannot disclose state secrets.

I am deeply disappointed, Tovmasian told reporters. I left the discussion because I didnt want to keep listening to that buffoonery.

Hayastans parliamentary leader, Seyran Ohanian, was also dissatisfied. Ohanian, who had served as defense minister from 2008-2016, suggested that more high-ranking security officials could have shared more information with the legislators.

Ohanian also said the briefing reinforced his belief that a Russian-brokered ceasefire agreement that stopped last years war in Nagorno-Karabakh did not require Armenian withdrawal from strategic areas along Armenias southeastern Syunik province.

Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian ordered Armenian army units and local militias to pull out of those areas last December. Pashinian said that they are located on the Azerbaijani side of Armenias Soviet-era border with Azerbaijan, which had never been demarcated due to the Karabakh conflict.

The order, strongly condemned by the Armenian opposition and local government officials, left Azerbaijani forces in control of a 21-kilometer stretch of the main highway connecting Syuniks capital Kapan to another provincial town, Goris.
PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5)-- Arizona's Family is learning more about how many refugees from Afghanistan are in Arizona. It has now been a little more than two months since the Taliban took over Afghanistan. Many families fled as the Taliban took over and arrived in the United States with nothing.

Now, members of the community are helping them kick-start their new lives. "They have been traumatized with everything you have seen going on over there, said Jean Christofferson, Director of Marketing and Communications at Catholic Charities.

Catholic Charities is one of many organizations working to help create a good life for refugees arriving in Arizona.

State Department watchdog opens new reviews into US exit from Afghanistan The State Department's watchdog has opened a number of reviews related to the US exit from Afghanistan, according to a letter from the acting inspector general obtained by CNN.

"When they arrived to the United States, they were likely given some of the basic supplies because they didnt have anything more than the clothes on their back, Christofferson said. They really are starting over completely.

Christofferson said so far, the organization has helped four families resettle in Arizona, but they are planning for more.

We pick them up at the airport and take them to a new home which is typically an apartment or small house we have rented, Christofferson said. We help them get their kids enrolled in school. We work with them to make sure they are signed up for food stamps.

According to the Arizona Department of Economic Security, 148 Afghan refugees have come to Arizona so far, and 1,610 are expected to arrive through March. They evacuated very quickly, Christofferson said.

Christofferson said the community stepped up instantly to help. We have had 200 volunteer inquiries so far, said Christofferson.

The organization does receive some money from the government but says local help and donations are needed to make sure refugees live a sustainable life.

They are starting over, so they are going to need everything, Ronda Cross with AmeriCorps VISTA said. The impact of these donations are unmeasurable for the refugees that are coming. We want them to feel welcomed and that this community is excited to have them here.

If you want to help, they need things like bedding, kitchen supplies, and bikes and toys for kids. Also, with winter ahead, they are looking for coats and jackets. The organization has a volunteer sign-up and Amazon Wish list; you can find that here.
PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) -- Arizona congressmen Andy Biggs and Paul Gosar are making headlines over their alleged involvement in the Jan. 6th protest that led to the deadly Capitol riot.

Over the weekend, Rolling Stone magazine published a report citing two unnamed organizers of the protest who claimed they met with Biggs, Gosar and a number of other Republican lawmakers "dozens" of times leading up to what some are calling the insurrection.

January 6 panel moves to hold Steve Bannon in criminal contempt The committee investigating the January 6 Capitol Hill riot announced Thursday it is moving 

The organizers, who are reportedly talking to investigators in the U.S. House, also told the magazine that Gosar offered them blanket pardons from then-President Donald Trump.

Biggs did not respond to requests for comment from Arizona's Family, but Gosar issued a statement that read, The Rolling Stone 'story' is categorically false and defamatory.

Democratic Congressman Ruben Gallego said he wasn't ready to make any judgments based on the report because "that wouldn't be fair."

However, he said the report is another reason the two congressmen should appear before the House committee investigating the Jan. 6th riot should they be called to testify.
Calls for better safety measures came after the Surfside tragedy. Here are the changes so far
Bakersfield, CA (93308)

Today

Cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later in the day. High around 60F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Clear to partly cloudy. Low 46F. Winds light and variable.
Bluefield, WV (24701)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. High 47F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 32F. Winds light and variable.
How and when Beaumont ExxonMobil workers can vote to decide on the future of union representation at the complex has now been decided, according to the company.

In a Monday evening update to employees, ExxonMobil announced that regional administration from the U.S. National Labor Review Board approved a mail-in secret ballot for its decertification election and workers could expect ballots to be delivered to their homes sometime after Nov. 12.

Once delivered, both full members of the United Steelworkers Union and non-members represented under their contract with ExxonMobil will have until Dec. 22 to deliver their vote determining whether they want to keep or end representation from their Local 13-243.

Related: USW, ExxonMobil plan for next meetings after contract vote

Please make sure your voice is heard  plan to vote and mail your ballot back to the NLRB shortly after you receive it, the company said in a bulletin to workers.

An employee-led notice and a petition with over 30% of the represented workforce was required to start the process, which finally happened on Oct. 6.

The NLRB has been verifying the signatures and organizing with the parties involved before officially setting the election timeline and methods.

A decertification movement has been brewing since before over 620 workers were locked out of the complex on May 1, and has been the subject of several complaints filed to the NLRB against both the company and the union.

Related: Workers turn down new ExxonMobil contract

ExxonMobil has previously said it would only consider ending the lockout of represented workers if a contract was ratified by membership or if workers decided to end union representation.

After USW membership decided to reject the companys amended offer in an Oct. 19 election, the company swiftly shifted its messaging focus to reminding workers about the upcoming move to decertify.

The good news is that soon you will have the opportunity to vote again  in a decertification election, ExxonMobil representatives wrote in a Friday evening bulletin to employees. This time, your vote will determine whether you want to put an end to Union irresponsibility, pressure on your loved ones, and unnecessary risks, such as strikes and lockouts.

Related: ExxonMobil employees appear to move toward union vote

The USW and the company confirmed to the Enterprise last week that they would be meeting at the negotiation table Tuesday, which the union administration hoped would eventually result in a better offer to bring to membership for a vote.

ExxonMobil set a Nov. 1 deadline in its first-ever amended offer delivered last month. Potential bonuses, raises or arbitration for terminated employees will be removed if a ratified contract in isnt in hand by that time.

After the election, representatives with the company told the Enterprise its offer would still be on the table following the deadline, but there weren't any plans to change its offer anytime soon.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/jd_journalism
Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan and Jefferson County Sheriff Zena Stephens have been honored as Newsmakers of the Year and Decade respectively by the Press Club of Southeast Texas at its 30th Annual Excellence in the Media ceremony.

The event was held virtually Saturday night because of COVID-19 precautions. Each winner was chosen by a vote of press club members.

Phelan was selected as the Newsmaker of the Year for 2020 for his outstanding leadership on flood-control efforts statewide as well as his call for greater safeguards after the November 2019 explosion at the TPC Group plant in Port Neches. Phelans strong year culminated in December, when he was tentatively named Speaker of the Texas House and then formally elected by House members this January.

Phelan is the first Southeast Texan to claim a spot among the Big Three in state politics - governor, lieutenant governor (who heads up the 31-member state Senate) and the Speaker, who leads the 150-member state House of Representatives.

The other four finalists for Newsmaker of the Year for 2020 were:

Dr. Qamar Arfeen, lead intensivist at Baptist Hospitals COVID-19 Unit who urged public officials to take coronavirus seriously when some were skeptical. CharLee Hanna-Rule, owner of iRule Dance Studio In Beaumont, who received a $50,000 check from entertainer Ellen Degeneres for helping so many young people overcome barriers in the art. Dan Maher, president of Southeast Texas Food Bank, who led his organization when its need was even greater because of the pandemic and recession, and received a $9 million donation from McKenzie Scott, largest in the groups history. Sherry Ulmer, Sherry Ulmer, Beaumont Public Health Director, who led early effort to close major city facilities because of the coronavirus threat.

Stephens was chosen as the Newsmaker of the Decade for the years 2010 through 2019. In that competition, press club members selected one person from among all the Newsmakers of the Year for that decade. Stephens was selected Newsmaker of the Year in 2016 for her strong leadership as the first Black woman elected sheriff in state history, overcoming many hurdles to win that office.

Previous Newsmakers of the Decade were Jasper County Sheriff Billy Rowles for the decade of 1990 to 1999, for his leadership following the tragic murder of James Byrd Jr., and Lamar University President Jimmy Simmons for the decade of 2000 to 2009, for leading the university to so many gains under his tenure.

The Press Club of Southeast Texas is made up of professionals in journalism, pubic relations and academia as well as freelancers throughout Southeast Texas. Proceeds from its annual Excellence in the Media event are used to fund the press clubs endowment and an annual scholarship for a communications student at Lamar University.

If COVID levels continue to decrease, the press club soon will resume its public meeting schedule at noon on the third Thursday of each month at a Beaumont restaurant. The main speaker for these events is usually a local public figure discussing timely events ranging from hurricane awareness to public health to area politics.
Update: Beaumont Independent School District has given the all clear at Marshall Middle School and Vincent Middle School.

In an update from the district, administration said the both district police and the Beaumont Police Department investigated the campuses and didnt find a threat.

According to a statement from BISD, both schools received calls making a threat of weapons on school grounds.

The district reported a similar situation at its two high school campuses on Monday.

The situation is still under investigation from the district police department.

Earlier:

Marshall Middle School and Vincent Middle School are currently on lockdown, according to the Beaumont Independent School District.

The administration at the schools and the district made the call sometime before 10:30 a.m. after receiving information about a possible threat.

The districts police agency and other local law enforcement are currently investigating the threat before more information can be publicly released, according to BISD.

We ask that parents avoid going to the campus as no one will be allowed in or out of the building, representatives wrote in a public notice. We will advise when an all-clear is given.

The possible threats at the two Beaumont middle schools follows actions the district at to take at Beaumont United and West Brook high schools on Monday.

The district said administration at both high schools received phone calls on Monday that led them to believe there could be a threat at the schools, including a possible bomb.

Beaumont United was put on lockdown first, followed by West Brook around 2 p.m., and officers from the Beaumont Police Department, the regional U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the fire marshal helped search the campuses with the help of dogs.

During the lockdown, the local Crime Stoppers agency informed the school of a photo submitted through their tip-line that showed a possible student with a weapon in the West Brook locker room.

Representatives from BISD said that officers later identified the student in the photo and determined they didnt have a weapon in their possession. The student also told police that the weapon in the photo was fake.

That case is still under investigation by the Beaumont ISD Police Department, according to the district.

BISD informed parents that there would be heightened security screenings and police presence at both high school campuses on Tuesday out of caution.

This story will be updated as more becomes available.

jacob.dick@beaumontenterprise.com

twitter.com/jd_journalism
The Kerr County Sheriff's Office is asking the public for photos or video of the drag racing incident that killed two children and injured eight people on Saturday, October 23, in Kerrville.

A 6-year-old boy and an 8-year-old boy were killed after a driver lost control and crashed into a crowd during an event called "Airport Race Wars 2" at the Kerrville-Kerr County Airport, police said in a news release. Thousands of visitors attended the event that involves drivers speeding down a runway for cash.
If Texas legislators required a fourth special session this year to do something important for the people of this state, wed support it without question. In the absence of any real need for that, however, Gov. Greg Abbott is correct to say that a fourth return to Austin is not going to happen. And Abbotts opinion on this matters because he is the only one who can call a special session of the Legislature  and set its agenda as well.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick wants a fourth bite of the apple, but he doesnt have any actual issues to discuss, just more of the partisan maneuvering that consumed much of the three special sessions that were held. Patrick believes a fourth session is needed to correct a mistake made in one of the three previous sessions and to approve a greater forensic audit of the 2020 election. Both of these crusades would be a waste of time and tax dollars.

The error that Patrick believes to be fixed is a provision in the elections security bill that changed the penalty for illegal voting from a felony to a Class A misdemeanor. But that was part of many changes discussed in that sweeping legislation, and a Class A misdemeanor is not a slap on the wrist. It can produce up to a year in jail.

As Republican state Rep. Matt Schaefer of Tyler put it, The simple truth is that the Senate was fully aware of the penalty reduction, and agreed to the change in conference. Patrick said nothing about this alleged problem at the time the change was made. And if it somehow slipped through without him detecting it, he should do his job better.

The political reality is that some hardline Republicans now think it just looks bad to change this penalty from a felony to a misdemeanor, so they want a do-over. Again, they should have spoken up sooner, and many of these same Republican lawmakers voted for the change they now oppose. They should be honest with their constituents about what is happening here instead of pretending they just noticed the change.

As annoying as that dustup is, however, its peanuts compared to Patricks request for another elections audit bill. This is all part of former President Trumps belief that he actually won the 2020 election and that widespread voter fraud occurred all over the country. Thats nonsense, and dozens of claims to that effect were tossed out of court  often by Republican judges, some appointed by Trump himself  because there was zero evidence for them.

Abbott, trying to curry favor with Trump like many Republican officials, has already ordered a useless audit of the 2020 voting in the states four largest counties. In case it needs to be said, Trump won the states electoral votes and the GOP did much better than expected too, winning every statewide race and most other closely contested contests. What are these audits supposed to prove  that Republicans won by even larger margins?

Efforts like this undermine public support in an electoral system that functioned well in 2020, handling record numbers of voters despite a raging pandemic. Illegal voting does occur here and there and should be vigorously prosecuted, but there is no proof that it is a widespread problem. Most states have pretty good review systems to ensure accuracy, invariably handled by multiple officials, and we have long supported photo ID laws for Texas and other states.

While Patrick is grandstanding in his role as leader of the Senate with stunts like this, House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont, is overseeing his chamber in a much more responsible way. Phelan did play some partisan games this year  all speakers do  but overall he is moving along bills that matter and staying away from rabbit trails.

Patrick, the older and more experienced lawmaker, should try to copy his younger first-term counterpart in this regard. He might learn a thing or two.
Texas Republicans want to use billions in federal pandemic relief to send checks to homeowners just ahead of next years November elections  and call it property tax relief.

House lawmakers are pushing a proposal that would put $525 checks in the mailboxes of some 5.7 million homeowners who claim a homestead exemption  by tapping $3 billion sent to the state under the federal American Rescue Plan Act, the $1.9 trillion stimulus bill aimed at pandemic relief.

Senate Bill 1, which passed out of the House on Friday afternoon, is a roundabout way for Republican legislators to deliver on a longtime pet issue  property tax relief  without running afoul of a federal rule barring the use of stimulus dollars for tax cuts.

The bill originally came over from the Senate as a straight-up tax cut bill. House lawmakers gutted the Senate proposal to use it as a vehicle for the $3 billion in checks for homeowners. Now, lawmakers in both chambers will have to work out a compromise.

House lawmakers have justified the use of federal relief money, saying their plan addresses negative economic impacts resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic including assistance to households.

Not all households would benefit. Excluded from that relief are renters, who make up more than a third of Texans.

Heres the problem: A third of Texans dont own their property, state Rep. Gene Wu, D-Houston, said during debate on the House floor. So none of this $3 billion would go to the one-third of Texans who rent. Not a penny.

Republicans argued that renters have already been taken care of because Texas has already received $2 billion in federal stimulus money for rent relief, state Rep. Jim Murphy, R-Houston, said.

I think everyone has been hit hard by the pandemic, Mr. Wu, said state Rep. Morgan Meyer, a Dallas Republican who carried the bill in the House. Everyone.

The checks would arrive no later than Sept. 1  about a month before voters head to the polls next year for early voting in the November midterm elections. Dick Lavine, senior fiscal analyst with the liberal-leaning Every Texan, blasted the proposal as a transparent political ploy.

Theyll have to print the check on legal size paper to fit the signatures of all the people who want to take credit for it, Lavine said.

Republicans tried to head off criticism that the checks would be politically timed.

The bill previously gave Comptroller Glenn Hegar until July 1 to identify property owners eligible to receive the money. Meyer amended the bill to move that date up to May 1, possibly allowing homeowners to get paid sooner.

The House proposal is significantly different from a $2 billion tax cut proposal that sailed through the state Senate last month intended to take about $200 off of an average Texas homeowners tax bill.

That measure  authored by state Sen. Paul Bettencourt, a Houston Republican and Lt. Gov. Dan Patricks point person on property taxes  would use $2 billion in state surplus funds to buy down public education funding normally collected by school property taxes, which make up most of a homeowners tax bill.

A homeowner whose property is worth $300,000, the median value of a Texas home, would see $200 in temporary tax relief under the Senate proposal  though that could grow depending on how much the Texas economy grows by next June.

Bettencourt did not respond to a request for comment.

Republicans are under pressure from the partys right wing to tackle the states high property tax burden in one way or another.

Gov. Greg Abbott added property tax relief to the third special session agenda in September  after primary challenger Don Huffines, a former state senator, blasted Abbott for initially leaving it off the table. Abbott had included it in previous sessions this year, but nothing passed.

Patrick, meanwhile, called legislation cutting property taxes his top priority for this special session, which has a packed agenda that includes figuring out how to spend $16 billion in federal coronavirus relief dollars and redrawing the states political maps.
When our loved ones die, we mourn and wonder whats next for the people we cared for so deeply. Are they watching over us? Can we communicate with them? Will we ever see them again?

Next to God, the dead are the only group of people who really know what happens when you die. Since we cant hear directly from the dead, we often turn to explanations from scientists on what happens when we die.

Death, just like life is a process, scientists say. The first stage of the process is known as clinical death. It lasts from four to six minutes, beginning when a person stops breathing and the heart starts pumping blood. During this time, there may be enough oxygen in the brain that no permanent brain damage occurs. Other organs, like the kidneys and the eyes also remain alive throughout clinical death.

In the second stage of dying, known as biological death, the cells of the body begin to degenerate, and the bodys organs  including the brain  shut own. In this stage, doctors are sometimes able to stall it by inducing hypothermia  cooling the body to below its normal temperature. This method can stop the degeneration of cells and has been used to revive cardiac-arrest patients.

While these stages of death are well understood, what remains vague is what happens to a person once he or she is both clinically and biologically dead. To get some insight on what happens after we die, we can turn to the Bible which speaks directly on life after death.

The Bible says, The living are conscious that they will die, but as far as the dead, they are conscious of nothing at all (Ecclesiastes 9:5). Therefore, when we die, we cease to exist. The dead cant act, think, or feel anything.

According to Scripture, we will return as dust. God explained what happens when we die when he spoke to the first man, Adam. Because Adam was disobedient, God said to him, Dust you are and dust you shall return. (Genesis 3:19). Before God created Adam out of dust from the ground, Adam did not exist (Genesis 2:17). Likewise, when Adam died, he returned to dust and ceased to exist. The same thing happens to those who die now. Speaking of both humans and animals, the Bible says, They have all come from me by dust, and they are all returning to the dust (Ecclesiastes 3:19, 20).

For believers, the Bible tells us that after death believers, souls are taken to heaven, because their sins are forgiven by receiving Jesus Christ. For believers, death is to be a home away from the body and with the Lord. We also know from Scripture that death is not the end. The Bible often compares death to sleep. Psalm 13:3 says, Look on me and answer, LORD my God. Give light to my eyes or I will sleep in death.

John 11:11-14 says, After he had said this, he went to tell them, Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up His disciples replied, Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better. Jesus had been speaking of his death, but his disciples thought he meant natural sleep. So then he told them plainly, Lazarus is dead. A person who is fast asleep is unaware of what is happening around them. Likewise, the dead are not conscious of anything.

Jesus promised at the moment of our death, He will personally take us by the hand and escort us to our new home in heaven. This is not the job of the angels. He reserves the right for Himself the right to personally accompany us to heavens glory. The Bible tells us, Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God, believe also in me. My Fathers house has many rooms; if that were not so, would have I told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go to prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you may also be where I am. You know the place where Im going (John 14:1-4).

Death is nothing to fear. In fact, we Christians can look forward to it with anxious anticipation. In Philippians 1:21-23, Paul declared, For me to live is Christ and to die is gain, I am torn between the two: I desire to depart to be with Christ, which is better by far.

Was it Gods original purpose for people to die? Not at all. God made man to live forever on earth. As we learned in Genesis, God placed the first human couple in a delightful paradise. He blessed them with perfect health. God wanted only good for them. Does any loving parent want his children to suffer the pain of old age and death? Of course not. The Bible says, God created us with the desire to live forever ever, And He has opened the way for that desire to be fulfilled (Ecclesiastes 3:11).

God created us with desire to live forever, and He has opened the way for that desire to be fulfilled.

Gods Word also provides assurance of life after death. God promises that we will return through a resurrection of the dead. This is how mankind will receive the gift of eternal life. Even though are bodies are temporary, subject to decay and death, God has planned for us much more than just this limited existence.
A man hauls a delivery to a market in Jakarta as economic activities resume and Indonesia sees a massive drop in COVID-19 cases, Oct. 15, 2021.

The number of active COVID-19 cases in Indonesia has dropped to less than 13,000  far below the global average  only two months after Southeast Asias largest country ranked among the worlds most pandemic-affected countries.

Vaccination drives and movement restrictions helped bring about the rapid amelioration in the active caseload, according to the countrys coronavirus task force  but some officials still are voicing fears about a possible third wave later this year.

We should be grateful that thanks to the consistent efforts and cooperation of all parties, the spike in COVID-19 has been under control, Sonny Harry Budiutomo Harmadi, a spokesman for the governments COVID-19 Task Force, told reporters.

Active cases in Indonesia have reached 0.35 percent, and thats lower than the percentage of active cases in the world, he said.

Indonesia, home to 270 million people, has recorded more than 4.2 million coronavirus infections and more than 143,000 deaths since the outbreak began here last year. On Tuesday, the health ministry reported only 12,989 active cases.

By contrast, the United States, home to about 330 million, has recorded 46.4 million infections and has nearly 9.4 million active cases.

Elsewhere in Southeast Asia, the Philippines has recorded 2.76 million infections and 53,642 active cases; Malaysia has recorded 2.4 million infections and has 73,258 active cases; and Thailand has recorded 1.86 million infections and has 98,150 active cases, according to the statistics website Worldometer.

Health officials credited the decline in active cases to vaccinations and mobility restrictions, combined with effective cooperation between the central and local governments. Indonesia has gradually reopened economic sectors, beginning in September.

The highly infectious Delta variant struck the nation between June and August, causing a near collapse of the hospital system in Indonesia, the worlds fourth most populous country. On July 15, Indonesia recorded 56,757 new infections during the previous 24 hours, compared with only 611 on Tuesday.

However, it must be realized that the COVID-19 pandemic is not over yet and we should not let our guard down and ignore health protocols, Sonny said.

President Joko Jokowi Widodo is warning that Indonesia be vigilant about a possible next wave in December as millions travel for the Christmas and New Years holidays, Luhut Pandjaitan, the official who leads the governments efforts to control the pandemic, said Monday.

Were seeing numbers up and down and we must be on alert. We will take many measures  people will say that they are too restrictive but we have no other choice, he said.

During a speech Tuesday at the annual summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Jokowi stressed the importance of strengthening the regional health architecture to overcome future pandemics.

The ASEAN region should become a regional hub for the production of medical devices, diagnostics, medicines and vaccines. This is to ensure the supply of the needs of ASEAN countries in the event of a public health emergency, the Indonesian president said.

A day earlier, he called for the immediate implementation of an ASEAN Travel Corridor Arrangement proposed by Indonesia last year, noting that the region imposed some of the worlds toughest restrictions to curb the spread of COVID-19.

ASEAN economic recovery must be accelerated by reactivating travel, including safe tourism, Jokowi told a business forum. With the COVID-19 situation increasingly under control, mobility restrictions can be relaxed.

Indonesia reopened Bali and Riau Islands  two provinces frequented by foreign tourists  to visitors from 19 countries on Oct. 14. Fellow ASEAN members Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand were not on the list.

1 million vaccines

Meanwhile, Indonesia received a shipment of 1 million doses of the China-made Sinovac vaccine on Tuesday, bringing the total number of doses delivered to the nation to nearly 220 million. The Sinovac doses account for 80 percent of vaccines received, according to the Indonesian government.

Indonesia is currently one of the countries with the highest vaccination rates in the world, thanks to the support from many parties, including vaccine assistance from a number of countries, said Usman Kansong, spokesman for the Ministry of Communication and Information.

Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin said the government would start distributing booster shots next year to vulnerable people, including the elderly and those living with HIV/AIDS and cancer.

So far, 114.3 million people in Indonesia have been vaccinated, 69.1 million of whom have received the full dose and 1.1 million have been injected with a third dose.

Jokowi also requested that the cost of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test  considered the gold standard for detecting COVID-19  be cut to 300,000 rupiah (U.S. $21), from the current 500,000 rupiah ($35) fee.

Jokowis made the request amid a public outcry against a government policy requiring air travelers to produce a negative PCR test before boarding flights. The requirement followed the decision allowing airlines to operate at full capacity.

More than 40,000 people have signed an online petition urging the government to scrap the required PCR test.

Dewangga Pradityo Putra, an aircraft engineer who started the petition, said the requirement could dissuade travelers. He called for the use of a cheaper and faster antigen test instead, especially given that only vaccinated people are allowed to fly.

The price of a PCR test in Indonesia is very expensive. It could be more expensive than the ticket price, Dewangga said in the petition.
Hassanal Bolkiah (center), the sultan of Brunei, the 2021 chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, speaks during the virtual ASEAN Summit that Myanmar did not attend, in Bandar Seri Begawan, Oct. 26, 2021.

ASEAN leaders began the Southeast Asian blocs summit on Tuesday without Myanmar, which stayed away to protest its junta chief being barred from the meeting.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden said he supported efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to hold the Burmese military regime accountable to the blocs five-point plan, which aims to restore peace and democracy in post-coup Myanmar.

Myanmar has been invited on a non-political level. However, as of the commencement of the summit, there was no Myanmar representative at the non-political level, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi told a press briefing.

Indonesias top diplomat also reported back on comments made by her boss, President Joko Jokowi Widodo, during Tuesdays ASEAN meeting.

Jokowi, she told reporters, regretted Myanmars refusal to welcome ASEAN's offer as a family to help Myanmar out of its political crisis.

In an unprecedented move earlier this month, ASEAN foreign ministers barred junta chief Min Aung Hlaing from the summit, saying he backtracked on a consensus that he had agreed to during an emergency meeting of ASEAN leaders in Jakarta in April.

[A]SEAN's decision to invite Myanmars representatives on a non-political level to the summit was a tough decision, but one that had to be done, Jokowi said during Tuesdays meeting, Retno quoted him as saying.

The president reminded fellow ASEAN leaders that it is important for us to maintain respect for the principle of non-interference, but on the other hand, we are also obliged to uphold other principles in the ASEAN Charter such as democracy, good governance, respect for human rights and constitutional government, Retno said.

She was referring to the regional blocs longstanding policy of not interfering in the domestic affairs of member states.

In the place of the leader of the Feb. 1 military coup in Myanmar, ASEAN invited a senior diplomat from the junta-appointed Foreign Affairs Ministry as a non-political representative to the summit hosted by Brunei.

Being barred from the summit was a serious blow and a failure on the international front for the junta, Ye Myo Hein, executive director of the Tagaung Political Studies Group in Myanmar, told Radio Free Asia (RFA), with which BenarNews is affiliated.

A statement issued by the ASEAN chair late on Tuesday did not mention Myanmars absence.

It called on the junta to implement the five-point consensus, which includes giving a special envoy to Myanmar access to all political parties. But the Burmese military has refused to do that.

Brunei, the 2021 ASEAN chair, will hand over the rotating chairmanship next year to Cambodia.

On Tuesday, Cambodian strongman Hun Sen had stern words for the Burmese junta, according to a report by the Reuters news agency.

Today, ASEAN did not expel Myanmar from ASEANs framework. Myanmar abandoned its right, Hun Sen said.

Now we are in the situation of ASEAN minus one. It is not because of ASEAN, but because of Myanmar.

Very embarrassing politically

Meanwhile in Myanmar, the juntas Myawaddy newspaper reported that pro-military rallies were held in 47 townships  including Naypyidaw  across the country, ahead of the ASEAN summit.

Political analyst Than Soe Naing said the rallies were held to show there was domestic support for the military government in the face of ASEANs snub to the junta.

The whole country has opposed the junta in the countryside, and ASEANs decision to bar them from attending their meetings is very embarrassing politically, the analyst told RFA.

In such a situation, these rallies were held to show that they have the support of the people. And the number of people attending are just a little over a cockfight.

One Mandalay resident, who did not want to be named, said the military also provided security for the rally in the Aung Myay Tharzan township, although soldiers had often opened fire at pro-democracy protesters at other rallies.

We have never seen these people in our city. They were all strangers. I see them as opportunists who join forces with those who seize power. These supporters were allowed to hold rallies, the Mandalay resident said.

Demonstrators calling for democracy in Myanmar take part in a rally outside the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) building in Jakarta, April 24, 2021. [AFP]

For its part, the Burmese junta-appointed foreign ministry issued a statement on Tuesday about Myanmars no-show at the summit. Myanmar was not boycotting the summit but merely not attending it because ASEAN had denied the military government representation, the junta said.

Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told RFA that the administration finds discrimination against each other and  pressure on each other in our internal affairs, unacceptable.

Myanmar is a sovereign country and already has strong international friendships, he said.

Those purported friends do not include the U.S., based on President Joe Biden's comments at the ASEAN-U.S. summit later on Tuesday.

He [Biden] expressed grave concerns about the military coup and horrific violence in Burma and called on the countrys military regime to immediately end the violence, release those unjustly detained, and restore Burmas path to democracy, the White House said in a statement.

He expressed support for ASEAN efforts to hold the Burmese military regime accountable to the five-point consensus.

President Biden met with ASEAN leaders after National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held virtual talks a day earlier with representatives of the National Unity Government, the shadow civilian government in Myanmar, to underscore Washingtons support for the NUG, the White House said.

Biden, who as president was taking part in his first meeting with ASEAN leaders, also announced the intention to provide up to $102 million in new initiatives to expand the U.S.-ASEAN Strategic Partnership.

The money will go toward supporting Southeast Asias recovery from COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, promote economic growth, and developing human capital, the White House said.

Indo-Pacific region, South China Sea

Other regional issues discussed by ASEAN members included the blocs Indo-Pacific outlook and the situation in the disputed South China Sea, whose claimants include ASEAN members the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam and Brunei.

The ASEAN chairs statement noted that some member-states expressed concerns about land-reclamation activities and damage to the marine environment in the South China Sea that have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions, and may undermine peace, security, and stability in the region.

The statement did not say which nation or nations were responsible for these activities, although satellite images and regional observers point to China.

Additionally, in recent weeks, two separate Chinese survey ships have sailed into Indonesian and Malaysian waters in the South China Sea. While Indonesia played down the intrusions, Malaysia summoned the Chinese envoy to protest.

At Tuesdays summit, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said ASEAN needed to remain strong amid Chinas challenge.

He noted that Beijings expansive claims to the South China Sea had been invalidated through a 2016 ruling by the International Court of Arbitration in The Hague. The court ruled those claims invalid under the 1982 the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS.

Similarly, Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said Tuesday, matters relating to the South China Sea must be resolved peacefully and constructively, in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS.

China has never accepted the international tribunals ruling.

Biden, in his remarks, said however that Washington was committed to working with our allies and partners to defend against threats to the international rules-based order and to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Marielle Lucenio in Manila, Ahmad Syamsudin in Jakarta, Muzliza Mustafa in Kuala Lumpur, Shailaja Neelakantan in Washington and the Myanmar Service of Radio Free Asia contributed to this report.
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Bennington, VT (05201)

Today

Sunny skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High 44F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy skies. Low around 35F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
President Joe Biden and the spiritual leader of Eastern Orthodox Christians discussed ways to fight climate change, end the coronavirus pandemic and the importance of religious freedom during an Oval Office session Monday
President Joe Bidens big domestic policy bill is now half its original size and being pulled apart and reconfigured as Democrats edge closer to satisfying their most reluctant lawmakers
Members of area American Legion Riders and others participate in a vigil in Dalton in July 2019, as groups honor victims of the deadly New Hampshire crash. On June 21, 2019, seven people associated with the Jarheads Motorcycle Club, which is made up of former Marines, were killed when a truck driven by Volodymyr Zhukovskyy, 23, is alleged to have crossed a double yellow line on U.S. 2 near Randolph, N.H. One club member who survived the crash, Joshua Morin, lives in Dalton.
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.
House leaders on Monday detailed a $3.65 billion spending package that would pour state surplus and federal COVID-19 relief money into areas like housing, schools and workforce development, while also reserving about $2.75 billion to be allocated at a later date.
Berkshire Food Project volunteers, shown in March, prep food at the group's site in North Adams. Following the expiration of expanded federal assistance, food pantries are expecting another increase in need.
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Williamstown Select Board members met last Friday to interview town manager candidates. This week, they continue to work to resolve questions over the future employment of Sgt. Scott E. McGowan, who was placed on paid administrative leave March 1 and became the subject of three inquiries into his conduct and future with the Williamstown Police Department. On Tuesday, the board held its second executive session within a week.
Spearfish, SD (57783)

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Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High 44F. Winds NW at 5 to 10 mph..

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Mostly clear. Low 29F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph.
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According to Dr PR Sodani, President, IIHMR, the university will be able to achieve new heights in the higher education space under the dynamic leadership of Jain

Sudarshan Jain took over as the Chairperson of IIHMR University, Jaipur, a post-graduate research University. Dr PR Sodani, President, IIHMR University welcomed the new chairperson Sudarshan Jain in a formal function organised in the university.

Dr Sodani said that the IIHMR University will be able to achieve new heights in the higher education space under the dynamic leadership of Jain. He has been instrumental in shaping healthcare policies and improving access to healthcare with government and global partners.

Sudarshan Jain is the Secretary-General of the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance, Senior Advisor - Apax Partners and Board member of multiple organisations. Jain is also the Chair of the International Generic and Biosimilar Medicines Association (IGBA) for 2021. He has served in several leadership positions for over 40 years in the healthcare industry and was formerly the Managing Director at Abbott Healthcare Solutions.

Jain, said, I feel very privileged to take on this role at such an exciting time for our country, where the needs of healthcare are increasing rapidly, and we will be working towards developing IIHMR University into the healthcare hub of India."
The plant will produce oxygen at 750 litres per minute to fill 160-170 oxygen cylinders per day

National Engineering Industries (NEI), part of the $2.4 billion diversified CK Birla Group announced its support in setting up a state-of-the-art 4th generation PSA oxygen generation plant for Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur. Ashok Gehlot, Chief Minister, Rajasthan inaugurated the plant virtually.

The plant will produce oxygen at 750 litres per minute to fill 160-170 oxygen cylinders per day and will be able to support with uninterrupted oxygen supply to hospital patients.

NEI has also recently supported hospitals in Rajasthan with oxygen cylinders and oxygen concentrators. The company had also donated 50 beds to the community health centre at Savli in Vadodara Gujarat. NEI also stood strong beside their employees by introducing several initiatives like flexible working, reduction in overall working hours, dedicated 24 hours helpline, medical insurance, paid leaves, etc. The company had also organised a vaccination camp at its Jaipur facility for its 2000+ employees and their immediate family members.
Dr Sudhir Srivastava has performed over 1400 successful robotic cardiothoracic surgeries

Dr Sudhir Srivastava, Founder, Chairman & CEO, SS Innovations was recently honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Society of Minimally Invasive Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeons of India (SMICTSI). The felicitation ceremony was held at the 5th Annual Conference of the Society of Minimally Invasive Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgeons of India for 2021 in New Delhi.



Dr Srivastava is a renowned cardio-robotic surgeon and specialises in minimally invasive coronary artery bypass robotic surgery. He has performed over 1400 successful robotic cardiothoracic surgeries, including the most complex 735 heart TECAB procedures which speak volumes about his dedication and commitment towards his work and patients.



Dr Yugal Mishra, President, SMICTSI said, "With his relentless dedication, passion, and hard work Dr Sudhir P Srivastava has developed a cost-effective but robust surgery system that is 100 per cent designed and developed in India which is a matter of great honour and pride for the country. Dr Srivastava has wonderfully addressed the healthcare disparities by designing this cost-effective surgical robotic that has added glory to Indian healthcare. We are grateful to him for spreading the minimally invasive cardiovascular thoracic surgery globally."
South Africa's most popular premium cider, Savanna is currently in a situation every brand would love and hate to be in simultaneously. The enormous love and support from South Africans has resulted in a situation where the brand has doubled in size in the last twelve months, creating significant pressure on demand and supply. Some fans have been noticing their brand selling out fast and missing from fridges and shelves in their search for their favourite cider.

About Savanna  Its dry, but you can drink it

We want to start by apologising and reassuring South Africans that millions of litres of your favourite cider is still being produced each week and allocated to local retailers to make sure that you do not miss your favourite crisp and dry cider, over the festive season. We are sorry for the low stock levels in stores but we are trying to keep up with you. We have seen exponential growth over the last year and we are working around the clock on solutions to produce and deliver more ice-cold crisp Savanna to customers and consumers across the country, says Eugene Lenford, marketing manager, Savanna Cider.For those thirsty for answers? Its hard to pop bottles without the bottles! There is a global glass shortage further impacted by shipping delays as a result of the pandemic that has left a number of suppliers and producers on the back foot in the last twelve months. The demand for Savanna's range of premium ciders has exceeded supply for an extended period, but the premium cider producer is investing in additional capacity and working on a number of short, medium and long-term solutions to remedy this with glass and other suppliers to avoid future shortages.Savanna Premium Cider will continue to be available over the festive season in greater volumes than in previous years. We urge South Africans to be patient and are encouraged not to buy in bulk (remember what toilet paper taught us  leave some Savanna for others please!) and to continue to only consume alcohol safely and responsibly. If anyone has any questions or require any more information, our social media platforms will be sharing updates and news, concluded Lenford.Savanna promotes responsible drinking. Not for persons under 18.For more information, follow Savannas social media channels or go to www.savannacider.com Instagram: @savannacider Facebook: @SavannaCider Twitter: @SavannaCider YouTube: SavannaCider Savanna is a premium, crisp, apple cider with a distinctive dry taste. It is one of the largest cider brands in the world and is available in over 60 countries. Since its launch in 1996, SavannaPremium Cider has won the hearts and funny bones of consumers with its intelligent, dry and witty sense of humour.
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The City of Brandon is expanding its program for testing lead in water to meet new provincial requirements.

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The City of Brandon is expanding its program for testing lead in water to meet new provincial requirements.

According to a release sent out by the city on Thursday, residential lead sampling is now a requirement of the Brandon Public Water Systems operating licence.

That means testing for lead in water in residences will continue and 40 randomly selected residences in the city have been sent letters asking for voluntary participation in the program.

The results of these tests will be made available to the affected homeowners and will be included in the city water systems annual report.

In future years, new residences will be selected to participate.

The National Drinking Water Guideline mandates that lead levels in water be below 0.005 milligrams per litre, which the water entering the system from the citys water treatment facility meets.

However, there may be elevated lead concentrations in homes built before 1950.

The citys voluntary program for residents to test for lead in their water is still available. More information can be found online at brandon.ca/water-treatment/lead-water-services-information.

Additionally, the citys rebate program for residents who install filters on properties impacted by elevated concentrations of lead is still available. For more information, call the citys development services division at 204-729-2214 or email waterfilterrebate@brandon.ca.

Schneider to receive alumni award

Brandon University professor Christopher Schneider is expected to accept a Distinguished Alumni Award later tonight from Harper College, where he began his post-secondary journey more than 20 years ago.

Schneider said in a Monday afternoon news release that the Illinois-based school is where he was seriously introduced to sociology, which is the field of study he currently teaches at BU.

"To be recognized for my career accomplishments as a professional sociologist is especially meaningful," Schneider said. "Its humbling to be chosen for such a distinction."

Schneider attended the school from 1997-2000 and graduated with an arts degree in general studies. Then he transferred to Northeastern Illinois University, Northern Illinois University and Arizona State University, where he earned a bachelors degree in sociology, a masters in sociology and a doctorate in injustice studies, respectively.

Before BU, he spent time at various Canadian post-secondary institutions, including the University of British Columbia and Wilfrid Laurier University.

Hired in 2015, Schneider was promoted to the status of full professor at BU last year.

He has written or collaborated on six books and published dozens of scholarly articles and essays, some of which have been included in publications such as the New York Times, the Washington Post and USA Today.

His 2016 book, "Policing and Social Media: Social Control in an Era of New Media," was referenced in multiple media reports that came out in the wake of the Jan. 6 U.S. Capitol riots.

Harper Colleges 2021 Distinguished Alumni Awards ceremony will be livestreamed tonight at 6:30 p.m.

 The Brandon Sun
Approximately 21 custodial staff members of the Rolling River School Division are preparing to go on strike, according to a Monday afternoon news release from the Canadian Union of Public Employees.

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Approximately 21 custodial staff members of the Rolling River School Division are preparing to go on strike, according to a Monday afternoon news release from the Canadian Union of Public Employees.

In a followup phone conversation with the Sun, CUPE 1630 president Kevin Jay confirmed that this strike will begin this coming Monday if the workers demands for wage parity are not met.

This would involve the division signing off on annual wage increases of 1.6 per cent, 1.4 per cent, 0.5 per cent and a cost-of-living adjustment over a four-year period between 2018-19 and 2021-22.

This is the same deal that Manitoba teachers secured earlier this year.

According to Jay, Rolling River is one of only a few school divisions left in the province that hasnt agreed to these conditions for its custodial staff, which makes his workers feel "disrespected" and "undervalued."

"Weve actually gone back and forth on three different occasions, but each occasion has not been parity  theyve offered substantially less," Jay said, describing his ongoing negotiations with the division since July.

"The last [meeting] we were told to wait until next June 30 for our next raise, and weve already been without a contract for I believe four years. So to wait another year for the final instalment was something we werent going to accept."

The Rolling River School Division is composed of 12 different institutions (and five Hutterite colony schools) that are located in Westman communities such as Minnedosa, Rivers, Forrest, Erickson, Rapid City and Douglas.

While its challenging for approximately 21 custodians to cover all this ground under normal circumstances, Jay said their workload has tripled since the COVID-19 pandemic emerged in March 2020.

"Were not a big school division, but all 21 of us stayed and made these 12 schools safe for the kids because thats what we do," Jay said. "I feel as though we really stepped up and now its time for Rolling River to step up."

In terms of why the division wont agree to their demands, Jay told the Sun to consult with Rolling River Supt. Jason Cline to receive a direct answer.

In response to the Suns request for comment, Cline wrote in an email that: "Rolling River School Division is aware of the strike mandate and are hopeful that we can continue to bargain to reach a settlement."

Cline also mentioned that the Rolling River board of trustees will discuss this matter further at its upcoming regular meeting Wednesday night, although the report from their negotiations committee will be relegated to the "in camera" portion of the meeting.

Looking ahead to Wednesday, Jay hopes the Rolling River trustees do the right thing and agree to their conditions, since striking in the middle of a pandemic is not an ideal outcome for anyone.

"Its one of those things where you have to hope for the best but prepare for the worst," he said. "Because a lot of our cleaners and custodians are getting along in age and they dont want to be out there [striking]."

However, Jay clarified that if the strike does go ahead on Monday, CUPE 1630 members will not picket outside of any Rolling River schools, since they dont want to distract staff and students from their day-to-day operations.

"Because this has nothing to do with kids," he said "I dont want them upset or anything like that."

Around 300 employees representing the Lord Selkirk School Division are similarly preparing to take strike action, since their school board is also one of the few remaining holdouts in terms of granting support staff this 1.6 per cent, 1.4 per cent, 0.5 per cent increase and the cost-of-living adjustment.

 kdarbyson@brandonsun.com

 Twitter:@KyleDarbyson
MONTREAL - Former prime minister Jean Chretien says the abuse of Indigenous children that took place in Canadian residential schools while he was minister of Indian affairs was never brought to his attention at the time.

Former prime minister Jean Chretien introduces Liberal leader Justin Trudeau at a campaign rally in Brampton, Ont., on Tuesday, Sept. 14, 2021. Chretien said he was not aware of the atrocities that took place in residential schools across the country when he was in power.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

MONTREAL - Former prime minister Jean Chretien says the abuse of Indigenous children that took place in Canadian residential schools while he was minister of Indian affairs was never brought to his attention at the time.

"This problem was never mentioned to me when I was minister," Chretien told the popular Quebec TV talk show "Tout le monde en parle,' Sunday night. "Never."

Chretien, who was minister of Indian affairs from 1968 to 1974, said he knew residential schools existed and how difficult the experience was, drawing a comparison with his own time in conventional boarding schools.

"I was a boarding student, from age six to 21," he said. "I had my share of baked beans and oatmeal. For sure, life in boarding school was difficult, extremely difficult."

Chretien's comments drew immediate criticism.

The discovery of hundreds of unmarked graves at residential school sites across Canada over the summer revived conversations around the discriminatory system designed to assimilate Indigenous children. The 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission report documented the physical and sexual abuse and malnutrition suffered by children in the schools.

At a news conference in Ottawa along with residential schools survivors, New Democrat MP Charlie Angus said he simply doesn't believe Chretien.

"It is outrageous for Jean Chretien today to try and whitewash his role at St. Anne's residential school, because he knew," Angus said, referring to a facility in Fort Albany, Ont. "People reached out to him and begged him to do the right thing, and he ignored them."

Angus shared on Twitter a handwritten letter that was sent to Chretien by a teacher in 1968, denouncing the conditions at St. Anne's and referring to the school's "sterile, rigid, unloving atmosphere."

"Jean Chretien never responded," Angus said. "Imagine if he had read that letter and thought, 'I should do something.' How many children could have been saved, because some of the worst crimes were being committed at that time?"

The 87-year-old former politician was invited on the show to talk about his new book, published in English as "My Stories, My Times Vol. 2." He was asked about a passage in which he says he advised the Queen against apologizing to the Maori people of New Zealand for what was done to them by the British colonial administration.

"Your Majesty, if you start, I will have to bring you to Canada and, since we have several hundred Indigenous communities, you will be on your knees for at least two years," he recalled telling the Queen in the book.

On Sunday, Chretien defended his words by saying excuses are good, but offering a future to Indigenous Peoples is better. "We cannot rewrite history," Chretien said.

"Terrible things have happened, not only in Canada. In the United States, it's the army that destroyed the Indigenous Peoples. Here, we had missionaries that were sent, it was less dangerous."

National Chief RoseAnne Archibald of the Assembly of First Nations raised doubts Monday about the sincerity of Chretien's comments.

"Chretien says the Queens apology would keep her kneeling for two years, but he heard nothing about institutes of assimilation and genocide?" she wrote on Twitter. "Lets remember that he promoted the 1969 White Paper on assimilation and genocide that launched First Nations activism."

Innu author Michel Jean, another guest on the talk show, criticized Chretien's comparison of residential schools to his own boarding school experience.

"Mr. Chretien, with all respect, doesn't exactly realize what a residential school was," Jean said. "And he's not alone." Jean explained that most people tend to wrongly associate these institutions with schools, where you "teach people how to write."

While Chretien said he never heard of nor experienced abuse while he was in boarding school, insinuating he "mustn't have been a pretty boy at that time," Jean recalled completely different stories from his family.

"Someone in my family, who went to a residential school in Fort George, told me they were sexually assaulted every day, for eight years by a nun," Jean said.

Chretien repeated throughout Sunday's interview that he deeply cared about Indigenous issues while he was in power. He pointed to the adoption by him and his wife Aline of an 18-month-old Indigenous boy as evidence of his devotion to the cause.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Oct. 25, 2021.

 With files from Lina Dib in Ottawa
OTTAWA - The majority of Canadian residents who received the federal Canada Recovery Benefit were continuous or repeat recipients of the now-ended aid program, An internal government analysis reveals.

Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland joins Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a press conference as they visit the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario in Ottawa on October 21, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick

OTTAWA - The majority of Canadian residents who received the federal Canada Recovery Benefit were continuous or repeat recipients of the now-ended aid program, An internal government analysis reveals.

The assessment from Employment and Social Development Canada found that by early June, 1.5 million, or about 75 per cent of the 1.8 million unique recipients of the benefit, were continuous or repeat beneficiaries.

Among them were some 627,000 recipients who applied and received the benefit for months at a time, never once taking a break.

The Canadian Press obtained a copy of the briefing note to the top official at the department under the access to information law.

Experts who reviewed the document suggested the analysis hints at the level of need for the income-support program, which came to an end over the weekend.

As of Oct. 10, the CRB had paid out just over $27 billion to nearly 2.2 million applicants since launching in late September 2020, but had seen a steady decline in demand from its peak of 1.22 million recipients in January.

By the end, there were about 800,000 people reliant on the payments who only had 48 hours to adjust their finances when the Liberals announced a change in the benefit package on Thursday.

"Workers need the Canada Recovery Benefits to pay rent and not lose their housing. Many workers can only find part-time work & are not getting enough shifts to make ends meet. The pandemic is not over," Deena Ladd, executive director of the Toronto-based Workers Action Centre, wrote in a tweet Sunday asking the Liberals to reinstate the benefit.

The government said the CRB was no longer needed because the Canadian economy was faring better than a few months ago, including a labour market that had recovered the three million jobs lost at the onset of the pandemic last year.

Similarly, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland said, the wage subsidy was no longer required as she proposed a broadened credit for companies that hire new workers.

Jennifer Robson, an associate professor of political management from Carleton University in Ottawa, said the Liberals' announcement didn't signal anything about the need for retraining or job-search services to help unemployed workers.

"The hiring credit might, in theory, help some kinds of employers hire more staff, but there's nothing here that would suggest this will do much in the short-term to help CRB users," Robson wrote in an email.

In their analysis, federal officials noted the number of first-time applicants for the CRB decreased starting in mid-January. The document also said more than 600,000 recipients who were paid in the first four months of the CRB's life were off the benefit by the start of June.

A similar trend was noticed among employment insurance claimants, "which indicates that Canadians have been steadily returning to work," officials wrote, adding that EI claims for sales and service jobs "have yet to recover as quickly as other occupations."

CIBC chief economist Avery Shenfeld wrote in an end-of-week analysis that there is now a risk that workers supported by the wage subsidy or CRB "will be added to the ranks of the job hunters" and affect progress on bringing down the national unemployment rate.

In place of the CRB, the Liberals introduced a rejigged $300-a-week benefit that would only go to workers who lose their jobs or income because of a government-ordered lockdown.

In a television interview aired Sunday, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough told CTV's Question Period that the benefit would only go to those affected by a full lockdown and not tightened restrictions that limited capacity at restaurants, for instance.

"I'm not sure if there are any lockdowns presently in motion, in which case that is an effective shutdown to the CRB with no additional benefits," said David Macdonald, senior economist with the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 24, 2021.
GREENBELT, Md. - The ex-Canadian Armed Forces reservist convicted of gun charges linked to what the FBI called a neo-Nazi plot to attack a gun-rights rally in Virginia is facing up to 25 years behind bars, a judge decided Monday.

GREENBELT, Md. - The ex-Canadian Armed Forces reservist convicted of gun charges linked to what the FBI called a neo-Nazi plot to attack a gun-rights rally in Virginia is facing up to 25 years behind bars, a judge decided Monday.

Patrik Mathews, 28, of Beausejour, Man., showed little emotion when U.S. District Court Judge Theodore Chuang agreed to the prosecution's request for a "terrorism enhancement" at sentencing later this week.

This undated photo provided by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police shows Patrik Mathews. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Royal Canadian Mounted Police **MANDATORY CREDIT**

Mathews' co-defendant, U.S. army veteran Brian Mark Lemley Jr., slumped his shoulders and later slouched out of the courtroom after Chuang decided that the pair's crimes fit the criteria of "promoting" a federal terrorism offence.

Mathews, sporting long brown hair that reached past his shoulders and a scruffy, unkempt beard underneath his face mask, looked fully engaged throughout the daylong hearing, but had no visible reaction to Chuang's ruling.

Since their arrest in January 2020, court has heard ample evidence of the pair talking in stark terms about killing federal officials, derailing trains and poisoning water supplies as part of a violent, disruptive scheme to exploit political and social tensions and trigger a race war in the United States.

At the centre of the plot was a massive rally by gun rights activists at the state capitol in Richmond., Va., where the two  both members of the white supremacist group The Base  were counting on clashes between police and tens of thousands of heavily armed protesters angry about proposed gun control measures.

Their conversations, text exchanges and planning  much of it captured through FBI wiretaps, so-called "sneak-and-peek" warrants and the use of undercover officers  comprised much more than just the "wishes and hopes and far-flung fantasies" of a pair of "wide-eyed neophytes," Chuang said.

Rather, they were "specific, serious and calculating in the actions they intended to perpetuate," he said.

"This was not just talk. There was intent to move forward with this type of terrorist activity."

Both men pleaded guilty in June to charges that included illegally transporting a firearm and obstruction of justice. A third co-defendant, William Garfield Bilbrough IV, pleaded guilty in December to helping Mathews enter the U.S. illegally. He was sentenced to five years in prison.

Earlier in the day, their lawyers did their best to dismiss the scheme, which they conceded was hate-filled and disturbing, as little more than the idle chatter and braggadocio of a pair of deeply troubled and alienated young men with twisted beliefs and an affinity for guns.

Mathews' lawyer, Joseph Balter, drew direct parallels with the Jan. 6 riot on Capitol Hill when he told court the world is a very different place than it was two years ago.

"The rhetoric and hyperbole has been ramped up," Balter said. "It doesn't look as exceptional as it did when I first picked up this case two years ago."

Similar cases where the enhancement has been applied were comprised exclusively of "people being punished for what they did," he added, "not what they said."

Lemley's lawyer Ned Smock cited the government's own transcripts of conversations with an undercover operative to argue the pair were already backing away from the idea before they were arrested, planning instead to attend a Base gathering in a different part of the country.

"What you see in these conversations is there is not an intent to be in Virginia, and in fact they are going to Michigan to be at this Base event," Smock said.

The Virginia rally has "been the essence of the government's theory from the beginning of this case, and we now know it's not accurate."

Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Windom dismissed that argument, pointing to the physical evidence that was recovered by investigators from the pair's Delaware apartment.

He walked FBI Special Agent Rachid Harrison through the collection, including two assault-style rifles  one a "ghost gun" assembled from aftermarket parts to make it impossible to trace.

Other items included long-distance rifle scopes, thermal optics and night-vision equipment, as well as ammunition, military rations and a variety of camouflage garments, many sporting the Base's logo.

The evidence "shows it's more than idle talk  there's a core purpose," Windom said.

"It defies common sense to suggest we shouldn't believe they intended to go and commit federal crimes of terrorism  they're not going to Michigan for the weekend with three to five months of food."

He quoted from text messages and transcripts to show Mathews firmly believed in the principles of white supremacy, describing "affirmative action" as a policy designed "to subjugate white people."

"'We're the bad guys already to them,'" Windom quoted Mathews as saying.

'"'I think it's time we became the bad guys  They think we're white-supremacist terrorists  let's give them what they want, give them what they deserve.'"

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 25, 2021.
OTTAWA - A Federal Court judge has found it was reasonable for Ottawa to require applicants to its summer-jobs program to declare themselves in support of abortion rights in order to get funding.

OTTAWA - A Federal Court judge has found it was reasonable for Ottawa to require applicants to its summer-jobs program to declare themselves in support of abortion rights in order to get funding.

In a decision Friday, Justice Catherine Kane dismissed a legal challenge to the federal government from Toronto Right to Life as well as its former president and a student who'd hoped to work at the organization.

A lawyer holds the scales of justice as she takes part in a demonstration of lawyers in front of the Paris courthouse, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2010 in Paris. A Federal Court judge says it was reasonable for Ottawa to require applicants to its summer-jobs program to declare themselves in support of abortion rights in order to get funding. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP/Christophe Ena

The court case came after the Liberal government added wording to the Canada Summer Jobs program application that required groups to say neither their core mandates nor the jobs being funded actively worked to undermine constitutional, human and reproductive rights.

Faith-based groups felt the wording went against their religious beliefs, so the Liberals reworked the declaration and eligibility rules for 2019 to make applicants say they don't work to infringe any Canadian's legal rights.

However, the new ruling says the program's pro-choice attestation fell within the labour minister's authority and had a "minimal" impact on the court applicants' charter rights.

"The minister did not act for an improper purpose, rely on irrelevant considerations, or show bad faith or a closed mind in making this decision," Kane wrote.

"Given that the decision reflects a proportionate balancing, it is a reasonable decision."

The jobs program aims to encourage small businesses and non-profits to bring on students and others looking for early experience by subsidizing wages for summer workers.

Informal consultations in late 2018 helped convince the government to change the wording for the following year's version of the program.

The head of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada said at the time that the retooled language achieved the same aim of ensuring that "anti-choice groups," among others, would still be ineligible for funding.

After the government put the reproductive-rights language in the 2018 application, funding rejections increased 12-fold. Only one of 63 groups flagged to the government as problematic by pro-choice groups received funding.

Blaise Alleyne, former head and current vice-president of Toronto Right to Life, said the group is "disappointed" with the ruling

"We believe it's a violation of our charter rights to put a values test on a government program like that, and deny applicants on the basis of their beliefs, rather than relevant eligibility criteria," Alleyne said in an email.

He said the organization is reviewing the decision, which dismissed its request for a judicial review, and considering next steps.

Employment and Social Development Canada said the summer-jobs program plays a key role in "ensuring that young people have the supports" needed to build successful careers.

"The government of Canada is committed to ensuring that the Canada Summer Jobs program supports quality job opportunities for youth that, among other things, take place in safe, inclusive and healthy work environments," the department said in an email.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 25, 2021.
MIAMI (AP)  Florida's top health official was asked to leave a meeting after refusing to wear a mask at the office of a state senator who told him she had a serious medical condition, officials have confirmed.

Rep. Tina Polsky, D-Boca Raton, debates during a session Tuesday March 10, 2020, in Tallahassee, Fla. Florida's top health official was asked to leave a meeting after refusing to wear a mask at the office of the state senator who told him she had a serious medical condition, officials have confirmed. Florida Senate leader Wilton Simpson, a Republican, sent a memo to senators Saturday, Oct. 23, 2021 regarding the incident at the office of Democratic state Sen. Tina Polsky, asking visitors at the building to be respectful with social interactions. Polsky, who represents parts of Broward and Palm Beach counties, had not yet made public her breast cancer diagnosis. (AP Photo/Steve Cannon)

MIAMI (AP)  Florida's top health official was asked to leave a meeting after refusing to wear a mask at the office of a state senator who told him she had a serious medical condition, officials have confirmed.

Florida Senate leader Wilton Simpson, a Republican, sent a memo to senators Saturday regarding the incident at the office of Democratic state Sen. Tina Polsky, asking visitors at the building to be respectful with social interactions. Polsky, who represents parts of Broward and Palm Beach counties, had not yet made public her breast cancer diagnosis.

Polsky told The Associated Press about the tense exchange with state Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo that was first reported by the news site Florida Politics. She said Ladapo and two aides were offered masks and asked to wear them when they arrived for the Wednesday meeting. She did not tell him she had breast cancer, but said she had a serious condition.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says cancer patients are at a higher risk to get severely ill from COVID-19 and may not build the same immunity to vaccines.

Ladapo had asked to meet her in Tallahassee as he seeks confirmation in the Senate after being named to the post by Gov. Ron DeSantis last month.

It was so shocking to me that he treated me in this manner, Polsky said. If he is a surgeon general for the next several years, I am really concerned about a future public health emergency and not being able to rely on him for necessary guidance and proper scientific leadership.

Ladapo offered to go outside, but the senator said she did not want to sit on the metal picnic tables on a warm day when her office was nice and spacious. She said she asked whether there was a reason why he couldn't wear a mask, but he wouldn't answer.

Democrats have opposed the appointment of Ladapo, criticizing him for comments and actions related to the pandemic.

A day into his job, Ladapo signed new rules allowing parents to decide whether their children should quarantine or stay in school after being exposed to people who tested positive for COVID-19.

On Thursday at a press conference with DeSantis to oppose vaccine mandates, Ladapo said people were not comfortable with the vaccines because the federal government has not been open about the effectiveness and safety of the vaccines, saying there was a concerted effort to hide stories of people with adverse reactions.

Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine has received the full approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, meeting high standards required for the vaccine to be considered safe. It has been administered to millions and proven to be effective against hospitalization and death. However, immunity against infection can wane over time.

Authorities in Sweden, Denmark and Norway earlier this month suspended or discouraged the use of Modernas COVID-19 vaccine in young people because of an increased risk of heart inflammation, a very rare side effect associated with the shot.

Ladapo also wrote an opinion column in the Wall Street Journal saying masks have little or no effect on respiratory virus transmission.

The CDC still recommends people with weakened immune systems, and those in high-transmission areas to wear masks. Studies have supported their use, with some finding that cloth masks are less effective.

In the memo sent by Simpson, the president of the Florida senate, he said that while there's no mask mandate in the Senate, senators can request social distancing and masking within their offices.

It shouldn't take a cancer diagnosis for people to respect each other's level of comfort with social interactions during a pandemic, he said. "What occurred in Senator Polsky's office was unprofessional and will not be tolerated in the Senate."

The Florida Department of Healths spokeswoman Weesam Khoury said the agency was not aware of any specific Senate protocol, but said it would ask members ahead of time and make necessary accommodations such as meeting through Zoom or outdoors.

The Department of Health will be addressing this directly with members of the Senate, rather than letting this play out publicly, Khoury said in an email.
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Despite knowing that staff who worked in Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan and Singapore were also likely contravening their local laws, Crown let them carry out promotional activities as the chance of them being charged was not significant. Loading To have done so after the China arrests is nothing short of appalling. Crowns underpayment of casino tax shows a similar disregard of the law. In 2011, Crown Melbourne embarked upon a plan to minimise its casino tax by claiming as a deduction amounts that its internal and external lawyers said were not, or were probably not, deductible items. The plan involved concealing from the regulator the true nature of the deductions for fear of getting caught. In the end, the plan failed when its existence was exposed by the commission. Already, over $61.5 million in back taxes and interest has been repaid. More is likely due.

Not only was Crown Melbourne content to breach local laws, it also happily assisted its wealthy Chinese patrons to breach the currency laws of their country. Between 2012 and 2016, those patrons transferred up to $160 million from accounts in China to the Crown Towers hotel. Purportedly this was to pay for hotel services, but in reality, it was to spend at the gambling tables. In addition to Crown Melbourne assisting to breach Chinese currency laws, what occurred also contravened local laws and likely allowed money laundering to take place. Crown Melbournes relationship with the regulator provides more evidence of its indifference to acceptable conduct. Over the years, the regulator conducted several investigations into Crown Melbournes affairs. Instead of cooperating with those investigations in the manner that is expected of a regulated entity, Crown Melbourne took the opposite tack. It bullied the regulator. It provided it with false or misleading information. It delayed the investigatory process. All in all, it took what steps it could to frustrate the regulators investigations. Perhaps the most damning discovery by the commission is the manner in which Crown Melbourne deals with the many vulnerable people who have a gambling problem. The cost to the community of problem gambling is enormous. It is not only the gambler who suffers. It also affects many other people, and institutions. Crown Melbourne had for years held itself out as having a worlds best approach to problem gambling. Nothing can be further from the truth. The commission heard many distressing stories from people whose lives were ruined by gambling but whose situation might have been improved if casino staff had carried out their obligations under Crown Melbournes gambling code.

The commission looked for reasons to explain why Crown Melbourne acted as it did. Not all the reasons are known. But some stand out. First, Crown Melbournes board failed to carry out one of its prime responsibilities; namely, to ensure that the organisation satisfied its legal and regulatory obligations. Perhaps the board was not told what was going on. The alternative, to adopt an old expression from the railroad industry, is that the board fell asleep at the wheel. Second, many senior executives involved in the misconduct were indifferent to their ethical, moral and sometimes legal obligations. Some were motivated by a drive for profit. Some simply did what they did because they could. Many senior executives involved in the misconduct were indifferent to their ethical, moral and sometimes legal obligations. Third and regrettably, both internal and external lawyers who knew that Crown Melbourne was wanting to engage in conduct that contravened some laws failed to counsel Crown Melbourne not to go ahead. They would say this is not the function of a lawyer, whose only role is to advise on what the law is. While that might sometimes be a defensible position, it cannot be right when

the client/employer is a regulated entity that must remain of good repute, having regard to its character, honesty and integrity.

Last, there is the Packer/CPH influence. This was dealt with in great detail by the Hon. Patricia Bergin, AO, SC who found that their influence encouraged Crown to put profit ahead of other motives for action. The Packer/CPH influence was only touched upon during this commissions inquiries and then largely through the evidence given by Crowns directors. That evidence

confirmed Ms Bergin, SCs views. When these facts came to light, it was inevitable that Crown Melbourne would be found unsuitable to hold its casino licence. No other finding was open. The only difficult question was what should be done in that circumstance. Deciding what to recommend was a demanding task. It required the weighing up of two almost irreconcilable positions. On one side, there was the overriding need to maintain the integrity of the licensing system. That requires the cancellation of a casino licence held by an unsuitable person. On the other side, there were two factors: the risk that cancellation of Crown Melbournes licence would cause considerable harm to the Victorian economy and innocent third parties; and whether, in a short time, Crown Melbourne could so remake itself that it would once again become suitable to hold a casino licence. In reality there is no correct view. It was simply necessary to make a recommendation knowing that whatever the decision, there will be legitimate criticism from those who would go the other way.

Although Crown Melbourne rightly deserves criticism for its past misconduct, and no one connected with the organisation is entitled to much sympathy, what tipped the balance against the cancellation of its licence was that Crown Melbourne has, at great financial cost, embarked on a significant reform program led by people of good will and skill. The program is likely to succeed. If it does, that will be to the benefit of Victoria. Important steps towards reform have been taken. Most significant among them is the appointment of a new board and new and highly motivated senior executives. Loading Still, the road forward will not be easy. If the recommendations are accepted, Crown Melbourne will not be in control of its own destiny. For the next two years, the ultimate decision-maker at Crown Melbourne will be a special manager. This manager, most likely a firm, will oversee all aspects of the casinos operations. It will keep a watchful eye on the progress of reform. It will

make sure that all rules and regulations are complied with. It will investigate particular aspects of the casinos operations.
There is nothing in the recommendations from either the NSW Bergin inquiry or the Victorian royal commission under Ray Finkelstein that is punitive. Sure, the casino will be under the strict supervision of a state-appointed monitor and it needs to continue its nascent endeavour of cleaning up its act. This includes, but is not limited to, getting its governance and risk management in order, clamping down on money laundering and discontinuing its traditional practice of bullying the gaming regulator. All this begs the question - what does a company actually need to do to lose its state-gifted licence to operate a casino - a licence to effectively print money? Crowns king, James Packer has lost many battles but won the casino war Credit:Getty Images Breaking the law doesnt do it. Ignoring the safety of vulnerable gamblers isnt enough. And so endangering its own staff that they land in a Chinese jail doesnt meet the threshold - nor does hiding bank accounts that facilitate money laundering.

This is enough to be declared unfit to operate a licence in two state jurisdictions - NSW and Victoria. But for these sins, Crown has been given a two-year probation, an order to do better - a tighter leash. If it reoffends, its licence is revoked. Crowns board and Packer are smart enough to ensure that wont happen again. Thus, there is an asymmetry between crime and punishment. Here is a taste of what Finkelstein said in his report: Some (of Crowns conduct) was so callous that it is hard to imagine it could be engaged in by such a well-known corporation whose Melbourne Casino Complex is visited by millions annually.

(The) Commission discovered that for many years Crown Melbourne had engaged in conduct that is, in a word, disgraceful. This is a convenient shorthand for describing conduct that was variously illegal, dishonest, unethical and exploitative. Illustration: Matt Golding Credit: It wasnt just Crowns Chinese staff that were endangered. Despite knowing that staff who worked in Indonesia, Malaysia, Taiwan and Singapore were also likely contravening their local laws, Crown let them carry out promotional activities as the chance of them being charged was not significant. To have done so after the China arrests is nothing short of appalling. And then there was the issue of how to deal with Packer and the toxic influence he had over the company both when he was a director and after he resigned that post. For Finkelstein, it was convenient and appropriate to bludgeon the behaviour of the former board and management.

What was apparently less convenient was to jeopardise Melbournes economy by revoking the licence. While he acknowledged that allowing Crown to retain the licence wont be a popular decision in some circles it was the point at which he landed after weighing up two almost irreconcilable positions - the need to maintain the integrity of the licensing system against the harm to the economy and collateral harm inflicted on innocent parties. This is despite the fact that during the commissions hearings Finkelstein had suggested cancelling Crowns licence would allow the allocation of the licence to a different operator, thus allowing the gaming facility to continue. Loading Finkelstein even satisfied himself that Crown would be able to sublet its Melbourne gaming facility to another casino company. It could be argued that the other innocent parties that would have been penalised by a revocation of Crowns Melbourne licence would be the non-Packer shareholders who invested in the company in good faith.
For true believers in the liberating qualities of cryptocurrencies - freedom, supposedly, from government and central bank devaluation of their money - last week marked a turning point in their still youthful life, bringing news of the first two US-based bitcoin exchange traded funds - the ProShares bitcoin Strategy Fund and the appropriately named Valkyrie bitcoin Strategy Fund.

Meanwhile, the Houston Firefighters Relief and Retirement Fund and the Ontario Teachers Pension Plan have poured further petrol on the flames by announcing they are vesting some of their members money into cryptos. Trustees deserve to be taken out and shot, though to be fair, the latter of the two is investing in a crypto exchange, FTX Trading, not in the coins themselves. Remember, the wealth generated by Americas various gold rushes was not so much from the gold itself, but selling picks, shovels and services to hopeful but all-too-often disappointed prospectors. So maybe the Ontario teachers fund is on to something.

Try as I have, and philosophically drawn as I might be to the idea of a privately constructed currency which is not the subject of seemingly perpetual manipulation by the governing central bank, its hard to see the point of bitcoin or any of its clones. Its too volatile to be useful as a reliable means either of exchange or store of value. Unlike gold, moreover, its gyrations bear no relation to whats happening in the economy or in the price of other asset classes. Ive heard it said that this is precisely what makes it attractive as a hedge, but frankly if thats the objective you might as well put your money on the roulette wheel.

US Fed chairman Jerome Powell . Central banks around the world are accelerating efforts to create digital currencies. Credit:Bloomberg

Worse, the business of mining these currencies uses up huge amounts of energy. Banning cryptos didnt save China from its current wave of power cuts, but they might have been a great deal worse had bitcoin mining been allowed to continue. As it is, the business migrated to the US, where it is widely thought to have contributed to the spike in electricity prices in towns where miners have settled.
Much-loved Perth radio personality Russell Rusty Woolf has passed away overnight at age 56.

Drive program presenter Geoff Hutchison said on ABC Radio Perth the news had come as a huge shock.

Russell Woolf has died. Credit:ABC

Since 1994, Mr Woolf worked on radio, television, as an MC at big events in Perth, as a host, guest speaker, conference convenor and voiceover artist.

Mr Woolfs former co-host Nadia Mitsopolous took over Mr Woolfs regular breakfast slot but it wasnt until 8.45am that his death was announced.
For example, the Burnets Victorian road map model projected a peak in cases of between 2778 and 6761. The trend is clearer: cases are going to go up. Fair enough. We can do more to report the uncertainty (although I have been criticised by some modellers for calling their models too uncertain  sometimes you cant win). University of Melbourne professor James McCaw, who supplies modelling to the federal government, says: Forecasts are like the weather: aiming to be accurate over two to four weeks. Scenarios can run for months, and attempt to guide policy by examining What if ...? questions. Scenarios are still calibrated to what has occurred in the past, but they do not, and cannot, anticipate all of the changes that will occur into the future. Therefore, they do not provide a quantitative prediction of the future epidemic. The Burnets models are scenarios, not forecasts. In that sense, they cant be alarmist or optimistic. And they cant be right or wrong.

But perhaps the most compelling argument about models I came across is this: scenario modelling, by its very nature, influences the world it is trying to model. Horror models lead to strong public policy responses, and those horrors are avoided. Australia did not experience 50,000 to 150,000 deaths from COVID-19 because we resolutely refused to allow 60 per cent of the population to be infected, by closing our borders and instituting lockdowns. The Burnet Institutes director, Professor Brendan Crabb, said on a podcast last month: [People say] your models were wrong because all those cases and deaths did not happen. Just skipping over the fact the models led to policy change that prevented them in the first place. Lets examine some of the modellings predictions and what actually happened. Model 1: Burnet modelling for the Victorian road map

The Burnets modelling underpinned Victorias road map to reopening. It predicted the seven-day average of new cases would peak between 2778 and 6761 on December 15, hospitalisations would peak between 1950 and 4400, and there would be 2202 deaths.

It nailed the caseloads, with current levels tracking as predicted, indeed a little above the median result. But it was well off on the hospitalisations, with the total number of people in hospital tracking along the bottom end of the projected range. Victoria has recorded 232 deaths in the current outbreak. The Burnet had us at 319 by this stage, per analysis by Professor Michael Fuhrer. The institute says both numbers are within the range of uncertainty. The Burnet argues we should be less focused on the numbers and more focused on the scenarios, in particular the possibility of cutting caseloads by increasing testing and social distancing.

Why was the prediction wide of the mark on hospitalisations? Because, says Professor Margaret Hellard, co-author of the modelling, sick Victorians are staying in hospital for a far shorter amount of time than predicted. If you look on page 13 of the Burnets modelling, you will note that length of hospital stay is listed as unknown under uncertain assumptions. Summary: Spot on with cases, deaths within range of uncertainty, missed on hospitalisations, but that was an expected limitation. Points go to the Burnet. Model 2: 8000 cases a day in Sydney On August 2, in an MJA Insight article, the Burnets modelling team predicted new cases in Sydney would rise to 8000 a day by August 25.

However, the institute says the modelling did not account for just-introduced restrictions (new restrictions were introduced July 28). And, again, after the horror modelling was published, the NSW government acted. On August 12, the government further tightened restrictions in three council hotspots. On August 14, the entirety of regional NSW went into lockdown. On August 20, a curfew was introduced and people were given only an hour out of home, and on August 23, a mask mandate was rolled out. Summary: Again, we see the effect of restrictions announced after the model was published. Model 3: The NSW modelling, late August Done at the request of the NSW government, this modelling (released on September 7) projected a peak average daily caseload of 1219 to 2046 between September 13 and 20 across greater Sydney under current restrictions.

Hospital demand was forecast to peak at between 2286 and 4016 cases, with peak ICU demand of 947. What happened? NSWs seven-day caseload peaked at 1422 on September 7. Within the predicted range, but a week early. NSWs hospitalisations peaked at 1268 on September 21, with a peak ICU demand of 242 on the same day. These estimates both fall below the entire range of uncertainty.

This is where things get interesting. The Burnet went back to see what happened. Its initial modelling of the outbreak assumed restrictions would be maintained. This did not happen. Instead, on August 23, NSW introduced a curfew, closed many of the shops and schools, and limited outdoor exercise to an hour a day for the 12 council areas with major outbreaks. This cut the epidemics effective reproduction number from 1.35 to 1, the Burnets follow-up work found. Sixteen days after the restrictions were implemented, the pandemic peaked and turned around. The institute says the miss on hospitalisations was caused by the average length of stay in hospital being overestimated.

Summary: Looks like a miss, but I think this is actually a win for the Burnet. You can see a clear line from the Burnet providing such hairy modelling to the NSW government to it acting to enhance restrictions  which the institute in turn found helped the state avoid the predictions. What do other scientists think? Several modellers have complained to me that they are unhappy at copping criticism of their models from non-modellers. If youre not a modelling expert, you cant really critique the science, they argue. I have sympathy for this argument, so I reached out to seven independent modellers around Australia. Of those who responded, none thought the Burnet work alarmist or inaccurate and all stressed the difficulty journalists and the public have in understanding their work.
Australias medical regulator has written to YouTube and Facebook over United Australia Party ads, saying the videos paint a seriously misleading picture of vaccine safety and asking the platforms to remove them.

Therapeutic Goods Administration boss Professor John Skerritt wrote to the companies on Tuesday, sharing the regulators concern about the content of videos shared on both platforms.

TGA boss Professor John Skerritt isnt a fan of the videos and wants them banned. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

As you may be aware, the TGA has expressed concern about material promoted on social media, including YouTube by the United Australia Party which we believe provides a seriously misleading picture of the safety of COVID-19 vaccines and could discourage individuals and their families from becoming vaccinated, Professor Skerritt wrote to YouTube. His letter to Facebook was almost identical.

Extracts of information have been selectively taken from the Database of Adverse Event Notifications (which is hosted on the TGA website) and have been presented in such a way on social media that many could conclude that the vaccines have been responsible for several hundred deaths in Australia.

The United Australia Party has been conducting a widespread anti-lockdown and anti-vaccination campaign, represented in federal parliament by former Liberal backbencher Craig Kelly, has also used text messages, letter-boxing and advertisements in print newspapers (including in The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age).

By the end of August the Australian Media and Communications Authority said it had received more than 300 complaints about the messages. But because the communications come from a political party, they do not fall foul of the Spam Act of 2003, and they also dont constitute advertising under the Therapeutic Goods Act of 1989.

The TGA took legal action claiming the campaign broke copyright law, but Mr Kelly hit back saying he would take his own legal action against the regulator.

Professor Skerritt said he would not comment on the issue at senate estimates today because of the legal action, but agreed to table the letters sent to Facebook and YouTube.

In the correspondence, Professor Skerritt stressed the good relationship between the regulator and the platforms in removing unrelated advertising that was in apparent breach of the TGA code over the course of the pandemic.

While for the reasons described above the communications from the UAP do not fit into the category of advertising, I would ask you to consider removing such communications as they undermine Australia's vaccination campaign and are not in the public interest, he said.
An Aboriginal teenager who had his cheek torn apart and needed surgery after being arrested should not have been tackled or struck by police, but the five officers involved did not commit misconduct, according to the independent police watchdog.

Police officers arrested the 14-year-old in western Sydney after pursuing a stolen car in August 2020.

The LECC has cleared police officers of wrongdoing, but made several recommendations for future arrests. Credit:Sam Mooy

The Law Enforcement Conduct Commission (LECC) found that after the teenager ran from the car he was tackled into a shipping container before four officers wrestled him into the ground, with one striking him several times.

Its report said it was regrettable that none of the officers were wearing bodycams, and that if they had then an investigation may not have been necessary.
Sydney Universitys all-male St Pauls College, which was once renowned for its sexist culture, will open the doors of its undergraduate wing to women from 2023 despite opposition from some students and alumni.

The council of the 165-year-old college voted on the proposal on Monday night, saying that in order to excel at forming the nations leaders in the 21st century, it was important to include women. We are so pleased to be able to announce this exciting new chapter in the history of our College, said the warden, Reverend Ed Loane.

The college raised the idea five months ago, seeking the views of students and alumni. One of the responses was a submission opposing, signed by 200 students including 80 from neighbouring Womens College.

St Pauls College has decided to become co-ed. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

The opponents argued students already had plenty of interaction with women, and while the world was co-educational, it was not co-residential; living with the opposite sex would not prepare them for anything.
A Bundaberg supermarket and Sunshine Coast service station have been added to the list of Queensland exposure sites after new COVID-19 cases were found to have spent time in the state.

The Gympie-based truck driver was confirmed on Tuesday to have tested positive in NSW after travelling north to the Bundaberg region, after another driver returned to Victoria before testing positive.

The Victorian truck driver entered the state after he returned a negative COVID-19 result, but once he returned to Victoria, he tested positive. Credit:Andrew Quilty

More were expected to come on Tuesday after two new local cases were reported on Tuesday, including an unvaccinated 17-year-old on the Gold Coast.

The mens toilet area at a Caboolture South travel centre truck stop has been deemed a close contact site between 8.50pm and 9.35pm on Saturday, along with the FoodWorks in Bundaberg  identified as a low-risk site between 4pm and 4.45pm that day.
The Park Hotel in Carlton is unfit to house asylum seekers detained by the federal government as COVID-19 continues to circulate throughout the facility, a court has been told.

Lawyers representing refugee Azizi, an asylum seeker from Afghanistan who caught COVID-19 while detained at the hotel, told the Federal Court on Tuesday that his detention there was putting him in danger and that he was receiving inadequate medical care.

Inside the Park Hotel, where 46 asylum seekers and refugees are detained.

Another asylum seeker in the facility has tested positive to COVID-19, bringing the outbreak tally to 21. Almost half of the 46 refugees at the hotel have tested positive.

Azizis lawyer, Daniel Taylor, told Justice Rolf Driver that his client was seeking orders from the court to be removed from the hotel to stay in a more appropriate quarantine facility.
In the lengthy report of the royal commission into Crowns Melbourne casino, two seemingly contradictory conclusions stand out.

Firstly, Commissioner Ray Finkelstein found Crowns behaviour disgraceful, and concluded that it must be found unsuitable to hold its licence.

Commissioner Ray Finkelstein found Crowns behaviour disgraceful. Credit:Jason South

Secondly, he found that the best way forward was for Crown to continue operating, albeit with new regulatory and supervisory arrangements, and a new framework of laws to keep it in check.

The appointment of a special manager to oversee Crowns operations means that the board and executives will (we presume) be held to the appropriate standard. No more junkets, no more money laundering, no more 36-hour stints on poker machines, correct payment of tax, and no more breaking the law, either Australian or overseas, apparently.
The mother of missing four-year-old Cleo Smith has made an emotional plea to her daughters abductor to bring her home.

The media shy Ellie Smith and her partner Jake Gliddon fronted cameras on Monday for a second time since Cleo vanished, as the desperate search for her entered its tenth day.

Were hoping by being here, whoevers watching, if they know anything, if the person thats watching has Cleo, we want her home, we want her to be home with our baby, we want her in our arms, she told Flashpoint.

The mother-of-two relived the night Cleo went missing from the familys tent at Quobba blowholes campsite on October 16 as they slept just metres from her, separated by a divider.
Part-time members of the tribunal that reviews government decisions are worried they could all be tarred by stories of some among their ranks doing little or no work, including payments to people who worked zero hours.

The concerns were shared with The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age as Administrative Appeals Tribunal Sian Leathem came under pressure from a Senate committee over the workloads, accusations of misleading Parliament and concerns about damage to members reputations.

AAT registrar Sian Leathem has apologised for confusion over her answers to questions about how the AAT answers questions. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

She apologised to the committee over a year-long saga about the AATs answers to questions about how it answers questions, after Labor senator Kim Carr accused her of misleading Parliament.

Liberal senator Sarah Henderson, the committee chair, told Ms Leathem she should also apologise to barrister Andrew Tragardh after the Herald and Age revealed he was listed in AAT paperwork as having not done any work for three years when he had declined the appointment.
The ABC agreed to pay reporter Louise Milligans personal legal costs of almost $200,000 after she was sued by federal MP Andrew Laming over a series of tweets because it feared further financial exposure and believed an apology would not settle the matter.

Defending the decision at a Senate estimates hearing on Tuesday, managing director David Anderson said he signed off on it after receiving advice the ABC could be held vicariously liable for Milligans tweets and legal costs could blow out to $700,000.

ABC managing director David Anderson signed off on the payment. Credit:Dominic Lorrimer

I will tell you that the advice when it came to accepting the offer of compromise was the total exposure to the ABC was in the order of some $700,000, Mr Anderson told the hearing.

So even with fringe benefit [tax], if it turns out like that, we are still settling the matter for less than what the potential exposure was at that particular point in time.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison is promising billions of dollars in further spending on climate policies to reach a new official target to slash greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050, opening a battle with Labor over who has the better plan to achieve the goal.

Mr Morrison set the 2050 deadline in a major shift in federal policy that also promised more investment in low-cost solar energy, hydrogen projects to create cleaner fuel and farming schemes to store carbon.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison will promise billions of dollars more in spending on climate policies ahead of the next election. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The new spending will be unveiled in a series of policies ahead of the federal election next year, adding to $20 billion already promised and incurring debt that will require greater tax revenue over time to cover the cost.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese slammed the statement as a scam rather than a plan, while industry leaders said the policy remained incomplete because it did not have enough detail about how each measure would work.
Laws meant to stop rogue medicos from performing complex operations while calling themselves cosmetic surgeons have been languishing for three years, as doctors argue over who can use the title surgeon and work in the billion-dollar industry.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt has asked state health ministers to make the new laws a priority, after a joint investigation by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and the ABC exposed the dark underbelly of the loosely regulated sector.

Medicos who call themselves cosmetic surgeons do not currently have to have surgical training. Credit:Nic Walker

Health ministers have been consulting on reforms to regulations governing health practitioners in Australia since July 2018. In November 2019, they agreed to restrict the title surgeon, but the laws have not yet been changed. That work is being led by Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley.

A spokesman for Mr Hunt said the minister received a letter on Tuesday from the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine calling for better regulation of cosmetic surgeons. The college wants cosmetic surgery to be recognised and protected as its own speciality.
Mr Morrison will fly to Rome on Thursday to attend the G20 summit before spending two days in Glasgow for the United Nations climate talks. The Prime Minister said the plan to cut emissions was not a plan at any cost. Theres no blank cheques here, he said. He promised the target would not spell the end of coal or gas production or exports and would not increase energy bills. It will not impact households businesses or the broader economy with new costs or taxes imposed by the initiatives that we are undertaking, he said. It will not cost jobs, not in farming, mining or gas. Because what were doing in these plans is positive things, enabling things.

It also would not be a set and forget program, with five-yearly reviews from the Productivity Commission. The first review is set for 2023 and will look at the socio-economic impact of the plan. Loading Mr Taylor said the plan to achieve net zero by the middle of the century was achievable, thanks in part to the countrys performance to date on reducing emissions. Australia versus even developed countries has performed extremely well, with a reduction of almost 21 per cent since 2005, he said. Mr Taylor said carbon offset would be an important part of the plan, noting that Australia had 90 million hectares of productive agricultural land. Another focus would be reducing the costs of low emissions technologies.

Were looking at the customer and technology trends, shaping those trends to our advantage; and on the back of that, ensuring we have a portfolio of technologies that can deliver the outcome we want to deliver which is head zero by 2050, he said. Actions speak louder than words Mr Morrison predicted Australias plan to cut emissions would be strongly welcomed at the UN climate summit. He had been under increasing international pressure to increase the nations climate targets ahead of the conference, which starts on November 1. The actions of Australia, speak louder than the words of others. Therell be lots of words in Glasgow, but Ill be able to point to the actions of Australia and the achievements of Australia, and I think thats very important, he said.

The plan has already been welcomed by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who overnight hailed the pledge to cut emissions as heroic. Loading Mr Morrison said the modelling that backed the plan would be released in due course. When asked what the entire cost was, excluding funding previously announced, he said the plan drew together many earlier budget announcements including $464 million for green hydrogen and $1.4 billion in the Building Better Regions Fund. The budget is about achieving this plan and particularly on this plan there is $20 billion  pretty much all of which gets spent in rural and regional areas to achieve the lower emissions energy targets.

A vibe rather than a road map Labor derided the governments plan, saying it was more of a feeling than a detailed road map. The Prime Minister announced a vibe today, rather than a target, Opposition leader Anthony Albanese said. You werent given any detail at all today and of course we havent been given any either. [In] their own words, there is nothing new in this plan. To quote their document, the plan is based on our existing policies. Mr Albanese said if the plan was really supported by the entire Coalition, Mr Joyce would have been standing beside the Prime Minister as it was launched.
A proposal to spend $125 million on a major redevelopment around a fledgling university campus on Brisbanes northside has been deleted from the latest draft South East Queensland City Deal.

The Mill at Petrie website still says it is part of the yet-to-be finalised SEQ City Deal but Brisbane Times has learnt the federal government has removed the project from the funding list.

City Deal funding has been withdrawn from a proposed mixed-use development at the University of the Sunshine Coast campus at Petrie (above). Credit:Tony Moore

Other projects to be removed include a $105 million expansion of a Griffith University innovation precinct and a $225 million conference centre at Maroochydore.

Ahead of the federal election, the Commonwealth has instead offered a $200 million innovation fund and a $287 million South East Queensland Livability Fund.
An independent committee would scrutinise key decisions, but their advice and objections will not be binding. If a person failed to comply with a health order and knew  or ought to have known  it would lead to a serious risk to the health of others, they would face a jail sentence of two years or a $90,000 fine, while businesses could be fined $455,000. The legislation gives provision for the government to enforce public health orders to certain types of people, and take into account their characteristics, attributes or circumstances. Opposition Leader Matthew Guy argued the legislation would enable the government to discriminate against certain groups of people and shadow attorney-general Tim Smith described it as terrifying. Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton will no longer have authority to sign public health orders. Credit:Joe Armao However, Health Minister Martin Foley blasted the duo for mischief-making, and said the public health orders would be based on clinical grounds. He said it would give the government the authority, for example, to lock down a specific suburb, mandate vaccines to access large swaths of public life and impose density quotients or caps on events at which there are large numbers of unvaccinated young children.

Loading [Race, religion, sexuality, gender] cant be considered because the principles of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act dont allow it to happen  its about public health and wellbeing, not your status of race or religion or gender, Mr Foley said. If anyone is suggesting that, they need to go back and do legislation interpretation 101. What it does reflect is some of the conspiratorial nonsense peddled by the opposition as they head increasingly to the margins of civic debate. Their contributions are increasingly hysterical and not informed by evidence. Mr Guy labelled the new bill, which is expected to pass the lower house where the government has a majority on Wednesday, as an incredible attack on democracy, and called for greater parliamentary oversight. He accused the Premier of usurping the Parliament and cabinet process, and giving himself the authority to rule by decree for months on end.

This bill is the most extreme of its kind weve seen in Australia, Mr Guy said. While a pandemic requires different approaches, it doesnt require a law as extreme as this. Earlier this month, Mr Guy said public health orders should be ticked off by a minister or the Premier, but on Tuesday said the legislation went beyond giving elected officials the power to make decisions. Victorian Opposition Leader Matthew Guy said the new legislation was draconian. Credit:Joe Armao That part of the discussion is but, what, 1 per cent of the governments proposal. No one talked about imposing the ability of the Premier to shut down a protest or individuals on the basis of their characteristics, Mr Guy said. No one ever talked about the Premier having such extensive powers as proposed by this bill ... behind [this bill] the government have thrown a whole lot of other measures, which are completely and utterly draconian.

The Andrews government needs the votes of three independent MPs in the Legislative Council to pass legislation. It has already secured the votes of Fiona Patten, Andy Meddick and Samantha Ratnam  who they have been consulting with since March  all but guaranteeing the safe passage of the bill. However, Liberty Victoria president Julia Kretzenbacher said she did not support the bill being rushed through Parliament, and insisted that the new laws must be carefully scrutinised by MPs and the public. Liberty Victoria is pleased that there will be protection of peoples personal and private data collected for public health reasons. We have always opposed that data being made easily available for policing or other reasons beyond public health, Ms Kretzenbacher said. It is good to see that there will be additional scrutiny of government decisions. Giving decision-making powers to the Premier and Health Minister will increase accountability, because, ultimately, Victorians will be able to express their approval or disapproval of those decisions at the ballot box.

Justice Party MP Stuart Grimley said apart from Ms Patten, Mr Meddick and Dr Ratnam, none of crossbench parliamentarians had yet seen the legislation. Everything weve found out is through the media and thats a disgrace because we all represent people, Mr Grimley said. Health Minister Martin Foley refused to shed light on what would be considered an aggravated offence that attracts hefty penalties. Credit:Joe Armao Im really disappointed in this and its completely unnecessary. Members of Parliament still havent even been given the courtesy of a phone call and thats really not good enough. The debate on the legislation came as Victoria recorded 1510 coronavirus cases, and the deaths of four people on Tuesday. Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton said he believed Victoria had passed the present peak, but warned cases would begin rising again as people moved around freely.
Beyond that, students from Singapore and travellers on business are expected to be able to use the travel lane after Australia has finalised the arrangement for their entry, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore said.

The link will enable fully vaccinated Australian citizens, permanent residents and their family members to fly to Singapore and back without quarantining, although they will initially be able to land only in Sydney and Melbourne with other states yet to flag a reopening.

The Singapore government announced on Tuesday night that it was opening up new vaccinated-only travel lanes with Australia and Switzerland, adding to 10 previously established arrangements with European countries and the United States and another soon to open with South Korea.

We look forward to doing more with Australia and Australia opening up further, Singapore Transport Minister S Iswaran said.

But we also recognise that every country has to make its own assessment of its circumstances, both in terms of infection rates, vaccination rates etc. What we would want to do is make sure these initial arrangements work well so that both sides have the confidence to do more and facilitate travel for a wider group of travellers.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison indicated last Friday that Australia would provide early access to re-enter the country to Singaporean students under a deal proposed by Singapore counterpart Lee Hsien Loong when Morrison stopped in the city state in June en route to the G7-plus summit in England.

Along with business travellers from Singapore, they stand to represent the first significant group of international arrivals to Australia, apart from those entering from New Zealand, since the countrys borders were closed in March 2020.

Entry to Australia for those visa classes, however, is not signed off yet. Details for this arrangement will be announced by Australia later, the Civil Aviation Authority said.
6 candidates for US Senate in Ohio vie for evangelical votes

AP/Joshua A. Bickel Ohio Sen. Matt Dolan, left, speaks during a news conference, Oct. 7, 2019, at the Ohio Department of Public Safety in Columbus. Dolan, the lone Republican moderate at a U.S. Senate candidate forum on Sunday said at one point he felt like a Browns fan in Pittsburgh stadium. The crowd of about 950 at the evangelical Genoa Baptist Church in the northern suburbs of Columbus never quite booed the state senator whose family owns the Cleveland Indians, but they didnt embrace him either. The event marked the first time the major candidates had been on the stage together.

WESTERVILLE (AP)  The lone Republican moderate at a U.S. Senate candidate forum in Ohio on Sunday said at one point he felt like a Browns fan in Pittsburgh Stadium.

The crowd of about 950 at the evangelical Genoa Baptist Church in the northern suburbs of Columbus never quite booed Matt Dolan, a state senator whose family owns the Cleveland Indians, but they didnt embrace him either.

It was the first time all the major candidates to fill the seat being vacated by Republican Sen. Rob Portman were on the stage together. They were Dolan, former Ohio Treasurer Josh Mandel, former Republican Party chair Jane Timken, author JD Vance and Cleveland businesspeople Mike Gibbons and Bernie Moreno.

Dolan said he would have supported certifying the 2020 presidential election, calling it the only option under the U.S. Constitution; favors an anti-LGBT discrimination bill, because its good for business; and backs the $1 trillion infrastructure bill pending in Congress.

I dont know how you can say youre fighting for Ohio if you wouldnt vote for this bill, he said, arguing it would return gas tax money to the state, repair a key bridge and bring needed broadband in Appalachia.

The other five candidates balked  though a bipartisan deal on the legislation was largely the handiwork of Portman  calling the bill crazy, a disaster and a complete boondoggle. All said they would accept Portmans endorsement, though.

Mandel reiterated his position, to applause, that the 2020 election was stolen from incumbent Donald Trump, which is untrue. Trumps former attorney general, William Barr, found no evidence of widespread election fraud. Trumps allegations of massive voting fraud also have been dismissed by a succession of judges and refuted by state election officials and an arm of his own administrations Homeland Security Department.

Mandel, in answer to a question on the biggest threat facing schoolkids, ventured into schools role teaching values, saying, My personal feeling is, theres no such thing as separation of church and state.

He said he would bring the steel spine of a U.S. Marine veteran to Washington, if elected  drawing one of the evenings few direct attacks from Moreno.

I loved your steel spine, which is why I supported you in 2012, Moreno said. But where was it last summer? When I was getting death threats, I was speaking out against the lockdown. Thats the difference. When you werent running for office, what were you doing?

Vance, author of the book Hillbilly Elegy, named households without fathers as the biggest hurdle facing American children and said grandparents, like his own, who have had to raise the children of families harmed by the opioid crisis should be given the same help afforded foster parents to keep their families together.

We need to defend the people who are actually standing up and taking care of all these kids who have been orphaned by this problem, he said. A long-time gap exists in Ohio between state payments to nonlicensed relatives who take custody of children and to licensed foster care parents, who typically receive much higher amounts.

Timken, the only woman in the field, spoke often from the perspective of a mother, including during a discussion of accommodating transgender students in school restrooms and sports. Im a mom, not a birthing person, she said.

She also touted her ties to Trump, who has not endorsed in the race. I am the only true America First, grassroots candidate in this race that can win this primary, unite the party and take on the radical lefts agenda, she said.

Gibbons said he would bring a businessmans acumen to Washington, while pledging he would not run for reelection if elected. To the question of his small campaign warchest, Gibbons said he would be able to get the money he needed.

Ill raise as much money as I need, he said. If I cant raise it, Ill put it in. I believe you put your money where your mouth is. He said he also has donated to 73 individual school board candidates this year, as conservative candidates seek to take over boards across the nation.

At the end of the forum, sponsored by the Center for Christian Virtues American Leadership Forum, moderator Hugh Hewitt, a conservative radio host and author, tried to extract a promise from the candidates that they would refuse to participate in any debate against Democratic U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan, should he win his partys primary, in which media outlets or reporters he dubbed liberal were sponsors or panelists.

Had my friends in the legacy media been here, you would have been asked about Jan. 6., and then Jan. 6 again ... which was terrible, Hewitt said, to laughter from the crowd. But then you would have been asked about Donald Trumps role in the events of Jan. 6. No questions on either subject were asked Sunday.

Most candidates avoided direct answers to the debate question  with Mandel saying he had no desire to have a bunch of liberals moderating any debate against Ryan, and Vance saying he would demand fair moderators but wants to take on Ryan for insulting his book.

Both Gibbons and Moreno said they did not fear taking Ryan on in whatever setting.

Ive been dreaming of debating Tim Ryan pretty much my whole adult life, Gibbons said.

In terms of a debate with liberal journalists, lets go, Moreno said. You know what, because were going to be down in D.C. You think its going to be like being in Columbus, where we have a supermajority? Were going to have to go against Bernie Sanders and AOC and those crazy left loonies.

A Republican Senate seventh candidate, tech executive Mark Pukita, is fighting the events sponsors over being excluded.
American International Group said on Monday it has appointed insider Shane Fitzsimons as its chief financial officer, replacing Mark Lyons, as the insurer prepares for the separation of its life and retirement business.

Fitzsimons joined in July 2019 and was most recently serving as the insurer's chief administrative officer.

Lyons will move into the newly created role of Global Chief Actuary and Head of Portfolio Management at from January, after which Fitzsimons will take his place, the company said.

AIG's board last year approved a plan to separate its life and retirement business, which sells insurance and annuities.

The insurer plans to use an initial public offering to sell part of the business, in which has agreed to buy a sizeable stake.

also named company veteran Elias Habayeb as CFO of the unit, effective immediately. Habayeb was most recently the chief financial officer of AIG's general insurance business.

(This story has not been edited by Business Standard staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Fintech company has approached the with six cancellation actions against multiple registrations held by Pvt, its rival owned by USAs Walmart, for the PE device mark in Devanagari script.

had recently launched a buy now pay later app under the trademark postpe. Purity of the trademarks register is in the larger interest of the public at large, said a spokesperson from Resilient Innovations (BharatPe). By taking on a trademark for the PE device mark in Devanagari Script in classes relating to payment services in a country like India, where Hindi is the primary language of the masses, has acted against the larger public interest, and Resilient is committed to undoing this.

The spokesperson said that has been asserting its registration for the PE device mark in Devanagari Script as being equivalent to the English word Pe / Pay. This was the same position taken by PhonePe in a recent case filed by it before the Bombay High Court against Resilients use of the mark postpe, which stands withdrawn at present. Resilient Innovations spokesperson said even though both the and the Bombay High Court have prima facie found PhonePes assertion to be incorrect, Resilient has filed these cancellation actions so as to provide a level-playing field to all stakeholders in the digital payment space once and for all.

Earlier this year, Resilient Innovations said the had rejected PhonePes assertion of exclusivity over the word PE at the interim stage. Very recently, even the Bombay High Court rejected PhonePes assertion of exclusivity over the word PE at the interim stage. Both Courts noted that the word PE was prima facie incapable of protection as a trademark standalone.

This month, Delhi-based announced its entry into the Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) category with the launch of its product- postpe. Postpe provides credit to customers to buy now and pay later, for anything, and from anywhere.

Last week, PhonePe approached the Bombay High Court seeking an injunction to restrain its rival Resilient Innovations (BharatPe) from misusing PhonePe's registered trademarks by using and promoting the marks 'PostPe' / 'postpe'.

During the hearing, the Hon'ble Court observed that the mark PostPe adopted by Resilient Innovations is so phonetically, structurally and visually similar to PhonePe mark that he also thought that PostPe/postpe is a natural evolution of the word PhonePe and emanated from PhonePe, said PhonePe spokesperson in response to a query on Friday.

However, to address certain observations made by the Court in the pleadings filed by PhonePe, the suit was withdrawn with liberty to file a fresh Suit challenging the adoption of mark PostPe/postpe by Resilient Innovations.

Accordingly, while allowing the withdrawal of the Suit and keeping the rights and contentions of the parties open, the Hon'ble Court granted PhonePe the liberty to file a fresh Suit. We will, accordingly, file a fresh suit and continue to ardently oppose the use of the 'PostPe' / 'postpe' marks, the PhonePe spokesperson had said.

With regards to the PhonePes case on BharatPe in Bombay High Court, a BharatPe spokesperson said on Monday that by withdrawing the suit before the Bombay High Court, PhonePe has given up its claim for exclusivity over the word PE by consent.

We were rather surprised by the statements made by spokespersons of PhonePe on Friday on the outcome of Fridays proceedings in the Bombay High Court, which did not reflect the correct outcome of the Fridays proceedings in Court, said the BharatPe spokesperson.
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Online bus ticketing Chalo has acquired Shuttl, a bus aggregator for office commute, in an all-cash deal. The amount was not disclosed.

While Chalo has raised $47 million from investors like Lightrock India, Waterbridge and Filter Capital, Shuttl has attracted $122 million till date from the likes of Amazon, Sequoia and Lightspeed India, according to data from Crunchbase.

Prior to Covid-19, Shuttl had a presence in large Indian metros like Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune, and Mumbai, and international cities like Bangkok, and was fulfilling about 100,000 rides daily through its 2,000 buses.

But as demand for bul travel fell off the cliff amid Covid lockdowns last year, the companys operations came to a standstill. Although it tried to put its act together, the second wave came as a lasting blow.

In June this year, Shuttl cofounder Amit Singh had tweeted: We've taken a tough but practical call. A call that best takes care of the interest of our team, customers, partners, shareholders. The call is to join forces with another entity. An entity that's less impacted by Covid & can better tide over these challenging times.

The comes days after Chalos announcement of its Series C funding of about $40 million. It offers Chalo key strategic gains -- it will accelerate the companys plans for international expansion as Shuttl already has a presence in Bangkok, and give it a presence in large Indian metro cities.

Mohit Dubey, co-founder and CEO, Chalo, said: Chalo and Shuttl were already the largest brands in their space. Together we now fulfil more than 25 million rides per month, and aim for international expansion along with further growth in India as well.

Amit Singh, co-founder and CEO of Shuttl, said: We started out to take the pain away from daily commuters. In the process we ended up building a category, and inspiring others from different parts of the world to do the same. It's a bittersweet moment for us. We believe the team and legacy of Shuttl will thrive equally well in the new set-up.

The acquired bus service will continue to use the brand name Shuttl. All of Shuttls current team, including key people who have been a part of Shuttls core team since inception, will continue under their current roles.

Chalos app provides live tracking of over 15,000 buses in 21 cities and had more than 70 lakh downloads as of July 2021. Chalo and Shuttl have a presence in 33 cities across 12 Indian states including Delhi NCR, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, and others.
CG Foods, maker of popular Wai Wai, on Tuesday said it has signed a deal to acquire the Russia and CIS businesses of Spain-based GBfoods.

The financial details of the transaction were not disclosed.

A binding agreement has been signed with GBfoods, said a statement from CG Foods, part of the Nepal-based CG Corp.

"GBfoods' business in Russia/CIS, under Gallina Blanca brand, is expected to change its ownership from GBfoods to CG Foods, owned by CG Corp Global, within the coming weeks," the company said.

The will help CG Foods to grow its foothold in Europe and Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) regions as well as diversify into culinary products and pastas.

"CG Foods will also leverage the existing distribution strength of GBfoods in Russia & CIS to grow its globally renowned noodle brand WAI WAI," it said.

GBfoods has a presence in Western Europe, along with Russia and CIS, Baltics and around 30 countries in Africa.

CG Corp Global Chairman Binod K Chaudhary said, "I have always dreamt of making WAI WAI a strong global brand, and I am happy to convert this dream into a reality. I believe that this step with Gallina Blanca Russia/CIS will be a milestone in our global journey."



CG Foods is the food division of Nepal-based CG Corp Global, having operations in sectors like FMCG, hospitality, real estate, telecom, energy, infrastructure, financial services and education.

Currently, CG Foods is producing in Nepal, India, Serbia, Bangladesh and Kazakhstan, while a plant in Egypt is under development.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
State-owned giant has paid the final of Rs 249.44 crore to the government for 2020-21.

has paid a final of Rs 249.44 Crore to the Government of India for 2020-21 on October 21, a power ministry statement said.

According to the statement, CMD AK Singh handed the payment intimation advice to R K Singh, Union Minister for Power and New & Renewable Energy, here on October 26, 2021, in the presence of Power Secretary Alok Kumar.

In addition, it said that an interim of Rs 890.85 crore for 2020-21 was paid on March 05, 2021, aggregating a total dividend of Rs 1,140.28 crore for 2020-21.

The Board of Directors in its meeting held on June 10 had recommended a final dividend at the rate of Rs 0.35 per equity share i.e. 3.50 per cent of the face value for 2020-21, which was approved in AGM on September 29, 2021.

An interim dividend at the rate of Rs 1.25 per equity share i.e. 12.50 per cent of the face value was paid on March 05, 2021.

Thus, a total dividend of Rs 1.60 per share has been paid for 2020-21.

NHPC today has seven lakh shareholders (approx) and total dividend pay-out for the FY 2020-21, including interim dividend, worked out to Rs 1,607.21 crore as against Rs 1,506.76 crore for 2019.20, it said.

In terms of the Department of Investment & Public Asset Management (DIPAM) guidelines dated May 27, 2016, on Capital Restructuring of CPSEs, each CPSU is required to pay a minimum annual dividend at the rate of 30 per cent of PAT (profit after tax) or 5 per cent of net worth, whichever is higher.

In line with the guidelines, NHPC has paid a total dividend of Rs 1,607.21 crore or 5.08 per cent of the net worth and 49.71 per cent of PAT for 2020-21.

NHPC had earned a net profit of Rs 3,233.37 crore for 2020-21 against Rs 3,007.17 crore a year ago.

(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.)
Jindal Stainless Limited (JSL) on Tuesday posted a five-fold jump in consolidated net profit at Rs 411.62 crore for the September quarter, mainly on account of higher income.

The company had clocked a net profit of Rs 80.64 crore during the July-September period of the 2020-21 financial year, JSL said in a regulatory filing.

During the quarter under review, the company's total income rose to Rs 5,041.26 crore from Rs 3,324.15 crore a year ago.

Total expenses were at Rs 4,453.86 crore as against Rs 3,200.43 crore earlier.

In a statement, the company's Managing Director Abhyuday Jindal said, "JSL has delivered robust performance which underlines our solid business fundamentals. Despite facing uncertainty and unprecedented challenges in logistics, we've been able to service our customers in India and abroad."



He added the domestic stainless steel market is facing issue of high imports from China and Indonesia. The industry is looking forward to the government's timely action to encourage domestic manufacturing.

According to the company statement, demand from all major end-use segments like process industry, pipe and tube, railways and wagons, and metro rail grew during the quarter.

JSL is the country's largest stainless steel manufacturer. Its plant in Jajpur, Odisha has an annual capacity of 1.1 million tonnes.

(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.)
Amid rise in COVID-19 cases in West Bengal, the Centre has asked the state government to immediately undertake a review of cases and deaths, and stressed on the importance of ensuring Covid-safe festivities.

In a letter to the health secretary, issued on October 22, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan said the state has reported 20,936 new cases and 343 fresh deaths in the last 30 days, accounting for 3.4 per cent of India's new cases and 4.7 per cent of fresh deaths in the same period.

Expressing concern over the rise in COVID-19 cases in Kolkata, he said the district has reported high quantum of average daily new cases in the week ending October 21 along with more than 25 per cent increase over the past week -- from 217 cases in the week ending October 14 to 272 cases in the week ending October 21.

Kolkata has also reported almost 27 per cent increase in positivity rate in the past week, from 5.6 per cent in the week ending October 14 to 7.1 per cent in the week ending October 21, Bhushan said.

"The weekly testing trends in this district are also showing a downward trend. This calls for more proactive action on the testing front," he said.

"With the ongoing festive season, it is crucial to emphasise the importance of Covid-safe festivities in order to maintain the collective gains made in the battle against this pandemic so far," the Union health secretary said.

The state must ensure strict adherence to Covid-appropriate behaviour and focus on second dose vaccination coverage of all eligible beneficiaries, Bhushan said.

He said it has also been observed that cases surge exponentially in instances where basic public health strategy testing, tracking, treatment, Covid-appropriate behaviour and vaccination' is not followed rigorously.

"The current trends of increasing daily new cases and case positivity, if left unchecked may lead to a situation where there is severe strain on health infrastructure and health workforce," Bhushan said.

He said regular review of COVID-19 cases and deaths must also be undertaken, and necessary corrective measures should be promptly communicated to field teams.

"Lastly, it should also be ensured that the district maintains consistency in data up-dation in the COVID-19 portal," Bhushan 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.)
The World Health Organisation's technical advisory group on Tuesday sought "additional clarifications" from for its Covid-19 vaccine Covaxin to conduct a final risk-benefit assessment for Emergency Use Listing of the vaccine.

The technical advisory group will now meet on November 3 for a final assessment.

Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech, which has developed Covaxin, had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) to the WHO on April 19 for the vaccine's Emergency Use Listing (EUL).

The technical advisory group met on Tuesday to review data on Covaxin for the emergency use listing of India's indigenously-made vaccine.

"The TAG met today (26 October 2021) and decided that additional clarifications from the manufacturer are needed to conduct a final EUL risk-benefit assessment for global use of the vaccine, the WHO said in an email response to a question by PTI on the decision regarding the Emergency Use Listing of Covaxin.

"The TAG expects to receive these clarifications from the manufacturer by the end of this week, and aims to reconvene for the final risk-benefit assessment on Wednesday, 3 November, it added.

The Technical Advisory Group for Emergency Use Listing (TAG-EUL) is an independent advisory group that provides recommendations to WHO on whether a Covid 19 vaccine can be listed for emergency use under the EUL procedure.

Earlier Tuesday, WHO spokesperson Dr Margaret Harris had said that on COVAXIN, the technical advisory group that reviews all the data for a potential emergency use listing was reviewing that data.

"Now if all is in place, and all goes well, and if the committee is satisfied, we would expect a recommendation within the next 24 hours or so, she had said during a press briefing.

The Covaxin has demonstrated 77.8 per cent effectiveness against symptomatic Covid-19 and 65.2 per cent protection against the new Delta variant. In June, the company said it concluded the final analysis of Covaxin efficacy from Phase 3 trials.

Bharat Biotech's Covaxin and AstraZeneca and Oxford University's Covishield are the two widely used vaccines in India.

The WHO has so far approved Covid-19 vaccines of Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca-SK Bio/Serum Institute of India, Johnson & Johnson-Janssen, Moderna, and Sinopharm for emergency use.

Last week, the WHO had said it is expecting one additional piece of information from regarding Covaxin and emphasised that it has to thoroughly evaluate to ensure vaccines are safe and cannot cut corners before recommending a vaccine for emergency use.

WHO has said the timeframe for its Emergency Use Listing procedure is dependent on how quickly a company producing the vaccine is able to provide the data required for WHO to evaluate the vaccine's quality, safety, efficacy and its suitability for low- and middle-income countries.

"When the information provided addresses all questions raised, WHO and the Technical Advisory Group will complete the assessment and come to a final recommendation whether to grant Emergency Use Listing to the vaccine, it has said.
A special NDPS Act court here on Tuesday granted bail to two persons arrested in a drug seizure case in which Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan is one of the accused.

Manish Rajgaria and Avin Sahu became the first accused in this high-profile case to get bail.

The Control Bureau (NCB) had claimed that the two were among the "guests" on the cruise ship where narcotic drugs were recovered off the Mumbai coast on October 2.

The NCB has arrested as many as 20 people in the case including Aryan Khan.

The special court for Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act cases had earlier rejected the bail applications of Aryan and two others in the case. The Bombay High Court is now hearing their bail pleas.

(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 Cabinet will meet on Wednesday to approve the addition of in its free pilgrimage scheme for senior citizens of the city, Chief Minister said during his visit to Lord Rama's birthplace on Tuesday.

Kejriwal offered prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi site in and also visited the Hanumangarhi temple there.

According to a government statement, a special meeting of its cabinet will be held at 11 am on Wednesday to include in the list of pilgrimage sites under the Mukhya Mantri Teerth Yatra Yojna.

The people of will be able to visit the land of Lord Shri Ram and worship at the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi at no expense. The Delhi government makes arrangements for AC trains, AC hotels and the best possible facilities, it stated.

Kejriwal said, "In Delhi, we offer free pilgrimage to the people. The pilgrims get to visit Vaishno Devi, Shirdi, Rameswaram, Dwarka, Puri, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mathura, Vrindavan, among many other shrines."



Senior citizens of Delhi can now visit Ayodhya and offer prayers at Shri Ram Janmabhoomi for free, the chief minister said.

Under the scheme launched by the Kejriwal government in 2019, people aged 60 years and above and their attendants are provided free pilgrimage every year.

The scheme was launched with five pilgrimage sites and later seven more were added to it.

Senior citizens availing free pilgrimage are issued certificates by the MLAs of their respective areas. The ministers of the Delhi government and the chairman of the Tirth Yatra Vikas Samiti also issue certificates to the applicants.

The Delhi government bears all the expenses on the pilgrimage, including the travel, food and accommodation charges. Facilities like paramedical staff and attendants are also provided during the journey.

Kejriwal who is also the convener of the AAP said that if his party forms government in Uttar Pradesh, the residents of the state will also get free pilgrimage to Ayodhya.

The AAP has decided to contest the UP Assembly elections slated to be held early next year.

(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 Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has called a meeting of Health Ministers of states on Wednesday to discuss the progress of vaccination. A top source with the Union Ministry of Health said the meeting has been called to scale up vaccine administration across the country.

The Centre on Saturday asked the States and Union Territories (UTs) to speed up the vaccination programme with focus on second Covid doses across the country. The decision has come in the backdrop of the country achieving the milestone of administering 100 crore doses on October 21.

The Centre has planned to vaccinate all eligible population by the end of 2021 under the mass vaccination programme. The Centre has asked the states and UTs to improve the pace of vaccination and increase the coverage.

India's Covid-19 vaccination coverage has exceeded 102.94 crore as per provisional reports till 7 a.m. on Tuesday which has been achieved through 1,02,28,502 sessions. A total of 64,75,733 vaccine doses have been administered in the last 24 hours.

Meanwhile, India continues to show declining trends on daily Covid caseload trajectory. India on Tuesday reported 12,428 fresh Covid cases which is the lowest in last 238 days. The active caseload remains below two lakh mark and is currently at 1,63,816 which is the lowest in 241 days. At present, active cases constitute 0.48 per cent of the country's total positive cases which is the lowest since March 2020.

---IANS

avr/khz/skp/

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
More than 400 gates at stations across the network have been gradually reopened since June 7 when services were resumed last after improvement in the coronavirus situation, an official said on Tuesday.

The network's current span is nearly 392 km with 286 stations (including the NoidaGreater Noida Metro Corridor and Rapid Metro, Gurgaon).

Metro services were suspended for several weeks in view of the rising cases amid the second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

Rail Corporation (DMRC) services were fully suspended since May 10 in view of the Coronavirus-induced lockdown in the capital. It was first imposed on April 19, and successively extended by the city government. The services had run partially, catering only to people from the field of essential services.

The resumed services from June 7 after a hiatus of four weeks in view of the improved pandemic situation in the national capital, albeit with 50 per cent seating capacity and no provision for standing travel for commuters.

Following the relaxations in norms by authorities, the Delhi Metro is running with full seating capacity from July 26, with still no provision for standing travel for commuters.

However, due to social distancing and other Covid norms, crowding at stations has been an issue, and many commuters had been appealing to the on social media to reopen more gates at stations post the improvement in coronavirus situation in the city.

"When services resumed second time on June 7 this year, we had opened with 257 gates for use. By end of July, we added 75 more gates, so a total of 332 were reopened," a senior official said on Tuesday.

On reopening of gates, the official said, this is a continuous process based on ground assessment, handling of crowd and to ensure their better facilitation and convenience in the long run.

"By end September, we had added 82 more gates, so a total of 414 gates have been reopened. The Delhi Metro has over 671 gates at its stations across the network," the 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.)
A World Health Organization technical advisory group was reviewing data on India's Covaxin shot against COVID-19 on Tuesday with a decision on its emergency use listing likely soon, a spokesperson said.



"If all is in place and all goes well and if the committee is satisfied, we would expect a recommendation within the next 24 hours or so," Margaret Harris told journalists at a U.N. press briefing.



Millions of Indians have taken the shot produced by Bharat Biotech but many have been unable to travel pending the WHO approval.

(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.)
Business executives are finally dusting off their long-unused suitcases to resume travel, thanks to a good vaccination rate, a drop in fresh cases, and an easing of travel restrictions

Brokerages turn cautious on India amid concerns over pricey valuations

Foreign brokerages have turned cautious on India amid concerns over pricey valuations and earnings delivery. In the past one week, at least three brokerages have recommended their clients to consider a higher exposure to other markets such as China and Indonesia, which have hugely underperformed India this year. Read more

to ICICI, 8 banks recast exposures worth Rs 27,000 cr in OTR 2.0

Personal loans have about 80 per ce-nt share in exposures restructured under regulatory package 2.0 by eight banks who have declared results for the second quarter. The remaining 20 per cent are loans to individuals used for business and credit to MSMEs. The total re--ca-st exposure of these banks under One Time Restructuring (OTR 2.0) was Rs 27,708 crore. The countrys largest private lender had the highest share in restructuring at Rs 17,395 crore, followed by another private lender at Rs 4,156 crore. Read more

Checking in: Travel for business takes off again on a wing and a prayer

Business executives are finally dusting off their long-unused suitcases to resume travel, thanks to a good vaccination rate, a drop in fresh cases, and an easing of travel restrictions. It comes as a huge relief for the ravaged aviation, travel and hospitality sectors. We are witnessing a 40 per cent recovery on pre-covid volumes from our business travellers, signalling the return of corporate confidence in air travel, said Indiver Rastogi, president & group head, Global Business Travel, Thomas Cook (India) & SOTC. The demand, he added, is not limited to large corporate houses but includes the SME segment too. Read more

Canada firm may be roped in to advise land special purpose vehicle

The government is looking to bring Canada Lands Company on board to assist in the operations of the soon-to-be incorporated special purpose vehicle (SPV) that would monetise idle land assets of public sector undertakings (PSUs) and government departments.

Canada Lands Company, a self-financing federal government entity in Canada, specialises in real estate and managing tourist destinations. Read more

India's shows uneven growth as Covid-19 spread eases

Indias rural economy, which is known for its resilience to withstand economic shocks, is showing signs of uneven growth. On the one hand, investment in the rural sector seems to have taken off at a time when the pandemic seems to be relenting. Sales of heavy vehicles that help in farming and marketing have jumped more than 30 per cent, while those of construction equipment by more than 60 per cent since the beginning of 2019. On the other hand, rural consumer demand has stagnated. Read more

IPO boom: 2021 record run rolls on with Nykaa's Rs 5,300-cr maiden offering

Next week, one more record will have been notched up in 2021, a year when the BSE Sensex breezed past previously unheard of levels of 50,000 and 60,000. This time, the record scale will be for the amount of funds raised through initial public offerings (IPO). So far in 2021, 41 firms have mopped up Rs 66,974 crore through IPOs, which is just Rs 173 crore shy of the all-time high of Rs 67,147 crore seen in 2017. With FSN E-Commerce Ventures, or Nykaas, Rs 5,300-crore maiden offering, which opens on Thursday, the 2021 tally will cross Rs 72,000 crore. Read more
Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Tuesday said two container-based mobile with 100-bed capacity each will be established in Delhi and Chennai, alongside 150,000 health and wellness centres, under the Rs 64,000-crore national health infrastructure scheme.

Of these, 79,415 health and wellness centres have been operationalised in the country. India is the first country in Asia to have two container-based hospitals, Mandaviya said while addressing queries on the sidelines of the briefing on Health Infrastructure Mission launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday.

The Centre will monitor the use of funds after they have been released to the states. The minister said the Union government had taken a total, not token approach in health care. This programme plugs critical gaps for a holistic and comprehensive healthcare and pandemic response system. It is an output of comprehensive thought, Mandaviya said.

The PM Health Infrastructure Mission would incur an average expenditure of Rs 90-Rs 100 crore in a district on health infrastructure. As part of this scheme, 134 types of tests will be done free of cost at the district level.

It will provide support for 17,788 rural health and wellness centres in 10 high focus states. Besides, 11,024 urban health and wellness centres will be established in all the states. The government in partnership with the states will establish integrated public health labs in all 730 districts, while at state-level, five regional branches and 20 metropolitan units of NCDC will be established and at national level, NCDC will be strengthened.

Worlds first approved DNA vaccine Zydus Cadilas ZyCov-D is expected to be available soon as the government has negotiated the price with the company and is working out internal approvals in the final stage. The emergency use authorization is there and the government is in talks with the company. Production has already started and the vaccine will be available soon, Mandaviya

On Covaxins availability for children, the minister said that while Bharat Biotechs vaccine had got a recommendation from the technical committee, more checks were happening before an approval is given. It is not okay for the government to comment on this matter. Expert opinion and global trends will also be considered in making a decision about this matter since it involves children, he said. Amid concerns over the new mutant AY4.2 that has been termed as the variant of investigation in the UK, Mandaviya said the Indian Council of Medical Research and the National Centre for Disease Control were inspecting the mutation and studying its details.
With a view to improve the availablility of and aircraft maintenance engineers, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) will hold written examinations every month.

Currently, the civil aviation regulator conducts examinations four times a year and issues licences to successful candidates.

Now, in addition to the regular sessions, the is introducing new online on demand examination (OLODE) for aircraft maintenance engineers and

"These license examinations provides an opportunity to the candidates to choose date and time to appear for the examination as per his/her choice on the available slots of the examinations. The limited seats will be available to the candidates on First Come First Serve basis.The first session of OLODE will be conducted at New Delhi center only and subsequently these may be extended to the other metro cities as well," said in a notice posted on its website.

Foreign licence holders need to clear exams for an Indian licence and the new system will also reduce the waiting time for such candidates

Between 2016-2020, DGCA issued around 3,000 commercial pilot licences. These included licences issued upon training in India and conversion of foreign licences.

The Rajya Sabha Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture in its recent report said country requires 1,000 annually to meet the traffic growth.

The committee also recommended setting up of pilot training institute at one airport in each state and increase availability of trainers.
Australia, long under fire as one of world's top producers of coal and gas, said it will target net zero by 2050, but added it will not legislate the goal and instead rely on consumers and companies to drive emission reductions. The adoption of the target will ease criticism after earlier refused to join countries in pledging to meet the target ahead of the United Nations COP26 climate conference in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12.

Strategic allies the US and UK have both pledged to cut emissions faster. The UK has pledged that all its electricity will come from renewable sources by 2035, while the US has announced plans to halve its emissions by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.



Australias PM finally agreed to a plan to zero out its by 2050, but said he wouldnt enshrine the target in law, and would continue to rely on fossil fuels and projects designed to offset planet-warming pollution.

Morrison said Australia, one of the world's largest emitters of greenhouse gases on a per capita basis, will achieve the target largely through technology development, with the government investing A$20 billion ($15 billion). The investment will reduce the costs of technologies such as clean hydrogen and increase their use, he said.
The Democrats' idea for a new billionaires' tax to help pay for President Joe Biden's social services and climate change plan quickly ran into criticism as too cumbersome with some lawmakers preferring the original plan of simply raising the top tax rates on corporations and the wealthy.

Biden said Monday he's hopeful the talks with Congress can wrap up overall agreement on the package this week. It's tallying at least USD 1.75 trillion, and could still be more. Biden said it would be "very, very positive to get it done" before he departs for two overseas global summits.

"That's my hope," the president said before leaving his home state of Delaware for a trip to New Jersey to highlight the child care proposals in the package and a related infrastructure measure. "With the grace of God and the goodwill of the neighbors."



Resolving the revenue side is key as the Democrats scale back what had been a USD 3.5 trillion plan, insisting all the new spending will be fully paid for and not pile onto the debt. Biden vows any new taxes would hit only the wealthy, those earning more than USD 400,000 a year, or USD 450,000 for couples.

The White House had to rethink its tax strategy after one key Democrat, Senator Kyrsten Sinema, D-Arizona, objected to her party's initial proposal to raise tax rates on wealthy Americans by undoing the Trump-era tax cuts on those earning beyond USD 400,000. Sinema also opposed lifting the 21 per cent corporate tax rate. With a 50-50 Senate, Biden has no votes to spare in his party.

Instead, to win over Sinema and others, the White House has been floating a new idea of taxing the assets of billionaires and another that would require corporations to pay a 15 per cent minimum tax, regardless of if they show any profits. Those both appear to be gaining traction with another pivotal Democrat, Senator Joe Manchin, D-West Virginia, who told reporters he supported new ways to ensure the wealthy to pay their "fair share".

Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee, led by Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon, are prepared to roll out the tax revenue plan in a matter of days. It is likely to include other revenue-raising tax measures, including a plan to beef up the IRS to go after tax scofflaws.

"Here's the heart of it: Americans read over the last few months that billionaires were paying little or no taxes for years on end," Wyden said at the Capitol.

The billionaires' tax is being modelled on a 2019 bill from Wyden to treat assets as income. Another idea, up to a 3 per cent ultra-rich surtax, has been proposed by Senator Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts.

Under Wyden's emerging plan, the billionaires' tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people. It would require those with assets of more than USD 1 billion, or three-years consecutive income of USD 100 million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

A similar billionaire's tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires' tax rate has not been set, but it is expected to be at least the 20 per cent capital gains rate. Democrats have said it could raise USD 200 billion in revenue that could help fund Biden's package over 10 years.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called it a "hare-brained scheme" and warned of revenue drying up during downturns. Some Republicans indicated such a tax plan could be challenged in court.

But key fellow Democrats are also raising concerns, saying the idea of simply undoing the 2017 tax cuts by hiking top rates was more straightforward and transparent.

Under the House's bill from the Ways and Means Committee, the top individual income tax rate would rise from 37 per cent to 39.6 per cent, on those earning more than USD 400,000, or USD 450,000 for couples. The corporate rate would increase from 21 per cent to 26.5 per cent. The bill also proposed a 3 per cent surtax on wealthier Americans with adjusted income beyond USD 5 million a year.

The panel's chairman, Representative Richard Neal, D-NJ, said he told Wyden in a discussion Monday that the implementation of the senator's proposed billionaire's plan is "a bit more challenging."



Neal suggested that the House's proposal was off the table despite Sinema's objections. In fact, he said, "our plan looks better every day."Once Democrats agree to the tax proposals, they can assess how much is funding available for Biden's overall package to expand health care, child care and other climate change programs.

Democrats were hoping Biden could cite major accomplishments to world leaders later this week. They are also facing an October 31 deadline to pass a related USD 1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package of roads, broadband and other public works before routine federal transportation funds expire.

"We need to get this done," Biden said in remarks at a New Jersey transit center.

After months of start-and-stop negotiations, Biden's overall package is now being eyed as at least USD 1.75 trillion. But it could still climb considerably higher, according to a second person who insisted on anonymity to discuss the private talks.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
A Chinese developer of real estate projects that use green technologies has become the latest builder to default, adding to the record for offshore bonds from the nations borrowers.

Modern Land Co, which is based in Beijing and builds energy-saving homes throughout the nation, didnt repay either the principal or interest on a $250 million bond due Monday, according to a filing Tuesday morning. The company is working with its legal counsel Sidley Austin and expects to engage independent financial advisers soon, the filing said.

downgraded Modern Land to restricted default from C late Tuesday following the payment miss. The developer tried divestitures, borrowing and adding strategic investors before not making the payment, reported Chinese financial platform Cailian.

Chinese borrowers have defaulted on about $9 billion of offshore bonds this year, with the real estate industry accounting for one-third of that amount. Multiple developers have defaulted this month, though Evergrande made a coupon payment last week before a grace period expired. Still, Evergrandes creditors are bracing for an eventual debt restructuring that could rank among the largest ever in



urges Evergrandes founder to pay debt with own wealth



Chinese authorities told billionaire Hui Ka Yan to use his personal wealth to alleviate Evergrande Groups deepening debt crisis, according to people familiar with the matter. Beijings directive to the Evergrande founder came after his company missed an initial September 23 deadline for a coupon payment on a dollar bond, said the people, asking not to be identified discussing a private matter.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Monday met with Taliban's deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani in the Qatari capital of Doha, during which he urged the to adopt a friendly policy towards its neighbouring countries.

During the meeting, Wang said that Afghanistan is currently facing a historic opportunity to truly master its own destiny, achieve reconciliation and tolerance, and advance national reconstruction, Xinhua reported.

At the same time, Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties, said Wang, adding that overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the community.

Wang expressed his hope that the Afghan will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction, and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children.

The Chinese official also urged the to adopt a friendly policy toward its neighbouring countries, and build a modern country that conforms to the wishes of the people as well as the trend of the times.

always respects Afghanistan's sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity, and supports the Afghan people to independently determine their own destiny and choose the development path, said Wang.

He expressed China's willingness to continue to provide humanitarian aid to Afghanistan within its capacity and work with the community to help Afghanistan alleviate temporary difficulties and realize economic reconstruction as well as an independent development.

Wang emphasized that the "East Turkestan Islamic Movement" (ETIM), an terrorist organization listed by the UN Security Council, not only poses a real threat to China's national security and territorial integrity but also jeopardizes domestic stability and long-term stability in Afghanistan.

He said that he hopes and believes that the Afghan Taliban will make a clean break with the ETIM and other terrorist organizations, and take effective measures to resolutely crackdown on them.

For his part, Baradar briefed Wang on the current situation in Afghanistan, which he said is under control and improving, with the governments at all levels being gradually established and government decrees being carried out effectively.

(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.)
China, the world's largest greenhouse gas producer, on Tuesday released an ambitious action plan to peak emissions before 2030, according to which the share of non-fossil energy consumption will be about 25 per cent and emissions per unit of GDP will drop by more than 65 per cent compared to 2005 levels.

China's Cabinet known as the State Council, has put forward the main objectives for the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025) and the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), which included increasing the share of non-fossil energy consumption, improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions.

The plan was announced ahead of the gathering of the world leaders and climate negotiators in Glasgow next month for the 26th UN Conference of the Parties summit, (COP26) where nations will attempt to reach a consensus on carbon emission reductions to keep global warming within 1.5 degrees Celsius to prevent catastrophic effects from

By 2030, the share of non-fossil energy consumption will be around 25 per cent, and carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP will drop by more than 65 per cent compared with the level registered in 2005, according to the plan.

Last year, Chinese President Xi Jinping had announced that will strive to peak carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060.

As the world's largest developing country, is still in the industrialisation and urbanisation stage and faces an uphill task of developing its economy and improving its people's livelihoods, so energy consumption will continue to grow, an official with the National Development and Reform Commission said in response to media queries.

However, China's carbon peak and neutrality goals are in line with the requirements of the Paris Agreement and demonstrate the country's ambition, the official said, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

The country will complete the world's most dramatic reduction in carbon emissions intensity through its carbon peaking actions, he added.

The plan outlines key tasks to achieve a carbon peak before 2030, including promoting green and low-carbon transportation, advancing a circular economy and supporting technological innovation.

will develop a unified and standardised carbon emissions statistical accounting system, improve laws, regulations and standards, optimise economic policies, and establish sound market mechanisms as part of its efforts to enhance policy support.

As for cooperation, China will be deeply involved in global climate governance, carry out green cooperation in its economy, trade, technology and finance, and advance the construction of the Belt and Road initiative, as per the plan.

On October 12, while addressing the leaders' summit of the 15th meeting of Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity Xi said to achieve its carbon peak and neutrality targets, China will release implementation plans for peaking carbon dioxide emissions in key areas and sectors as well as a series of supporting measures, and will put in place a 1+N policy framework for carbon peak and carbon neutrality.

China will continue to readjust its industrial structure and energy mix, vigorously develop renewable energy, and make faster progress in planning and developing large wind power and photovoltaic bases in sandy areas, rocky areas and deserts, he said.

Stating that China will vigorously develop renewable energy, Xi said the country has begun constructing 100-mln-kw wind, photovoltaic power projects in desert areas.

The first phase of China's large wind power and photovoltaic projects in desert areas with an installed capacity of approximately 100 million kilowatts have recently started construction, he asserted.

This is part of China's efforts to make faster progress in planning and developing large wind power and photovoltaic bases in sandy, rocky and desert areas, 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.)
Ousted leader testified in court for the first time Tuesday in one of several cases against her, but details of what she said were not available because of a gag order on her lawyers.

Since last week, all defense lawyers in Suu Kyi's cases have been barred from providing details of the court proceedings.

The action was taken under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure, a broadly worded statute from British colonial times intended to deal with emergency situations that threaten public safety.

There have been no signs of unrest related to any of her trials.

The only accounts of the proceedings had previously come from lawyers defending her and her co-defendants.

The court sessions are closed to reporters and the public, the prosecutors do not comment on them, and the state-controlled media have not reported directly on them.

Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun, the spokesperson for the military government, said earlier this month after the gag order was imposed on Suu Kyi's main lawyer that it was imposed because he had incited local and foreign media to spread false information that could destabilise the country.

A person familiar with the legal proceedings confirmed that Suu Kyi testified Tuesday at the special court session in the capital, Naypyitaw, but could not provide details. The source asked not to be identified because of fear of legal action or harassment.

The court has been hearing testimony related to the charge of incitement, which is sometimes referred to as sedition.

The offense is defined as spreading false or inflammatory information that could disturb public order, and is punishable by up to three years' imprisonment.

Suu Kyi's co-defendants in the case are Win Myint, who was president in her government, and Naypyitaw's former mayor, Myo Aung.

Their lawyers have repeatedly tried but failed to have the incitement charge dropped.

The evidence submitted by the prosecution consists of statements posted on a Facebook page of Suu Kyi's National League for Democracy party. The lawyers for Suu Kyi and Win Myint have said they can not be held responsible for the statements which criticised the takeover and suggested in broad terms that it be resisted because they were already in detention.

Suu Kyi has been detained since Feb. 1, when the army seized power and stopped her and her party from beginning a second five-year term in power after a landslide victory in last November's general election. The military says it acted because there was large-scale electoral fraud, an allegation that does not appear to be well-supported.

Opposition to the army's takeover is widespread and takes the form of peaceful civil disobedience as well as armed resistance. Security forces suppressed initial non-violent protests with deadly force, killing about 1,200 civilians according to a detailed list compiled by the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners.

The government says a smaller number of people were killed in actions taken to restore order. The Foreign Ministry said in a recent statement that there were 986 terror attacks, 2,344 bomb attacks and 312 arson attacks from February to late October.

The authorities are trying Suu Kyi on multiple criminal charges that her supporters and rights groups say are contrived in an attempt to discredit her and legitimize the military's seizure of power.

Suu Kyi is also being tried in the same court on two counts of breaking COVID-19 pandemic restrictions during the 2020 election campaign, illegally importing walkie-talkies and unlicensed use of the radios.

In separate proceedings, she is accused of corruption, which is punishable by up to 15 years in prison, and violating the Official Secrets Act, which carries a maximum term of 14 years.

(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.)
Indian-origin Canadian politician Anita Anand was on Tuesday appointed as the country's new Defence Minister in a Cabinet reshuffle by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, over a month after his Liberal Party returned power in the snap polls and amid calls for major military reforms.

Anand, 54, will replace long-time defence minister Indian-origin Harjit Sajjan, whose handling of the military sexual misconduct crisis has been under criticism.

Sajjan has been appointed as Minister of Development Agency, a report in the National Post newspaper said.

The new Cabinet maintains gender balance and has 38 members, up one person from before the election, it said.

According to a report in Global News, Anand has been touted as a strong contender for weeks among defence industry experts who said that moving her into the role would send a powerful signal to survivors and victims of military sexual misconduct that the government is serious about implementing major reforms.

The Canadian military is facing intense public and political pressure to change its culture and create better systems for both preventing and handling sexual misconduct allegations, it said.

Anand has a deep background as a corporate lawyer and has worked extensively on corporate governance, which refers specifically to the laws and rules in place to manage the operations of businesses, the report said.

Anand, along with Sajjan and Bardish Chagger were the three Indo-Canadian ministers in the dissolved Cabinet who emerged victorious in the parliamentary polls last month.

Anand was declared the winner in Oakville with a nearly 46 per cent vote share; a significant development for Canada's vaccine minister.

She was first elected as a rookie Member of Parliament in 2019 representing Oakville in Ontario province and served as procurement minister throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

She quickly became in charge of the country's efforts to secure COVID-19 vaccines and was often on the campaign trail with Trudeau.

In her role as former Minister of Public Services and Procurement, she played a very public role in the Liberal response to the health crisis.

"I'm just ecstatic, she had said after her win, thanking the volunteers who had worked extremely hard as a team for five weeks straight, she was quoted as saying by the Oakville News.

(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.)
and Chinese President on Tuesday agreed to further bolster their bilateral ties, including full realisation of the potential offered by the Phase-II of the Free Trade Agreement to overcome the economic headwinds.

The two leaders reviewed the bilateral ties and cooperation during a telephonic conversation Prime Minister Imran had with President Xi, the PM Office said in a statement.

Khan was appreciative of China's successful containment of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the relief measures to developing countries, including the vaccine cooperation with Pakistan, it said.

Taking stock of the negative impact of COVID-19 on the global economy, the two leaders agreed on further strengthening bilateral economic and commercial ties, including full realisation of the potential offered by the Phase-II of the China- Free Trade Agreement, to overcome the economic headwinds, it said.

The Prime Minister has lauded the successful, timely and high-quality implementation of the China- Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, and welcomed Chinese investments in the CPEC Special Economic Zones.

He also stressed that early start of work on the ML-1 railway project would complement Pakistan's geo-economics vision for national and regional development.

The two leaders agreed to promote CPEC's green development as a high-quality demonstration of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

The ambitious CPEC was launched in 2015 when President Xi visited Pakistan.

It aims to connect western China with the Gwadar seaport in southwestern Pakistan through a network of roads, railways and other projects of infrastructure and development.

While acknowledging China taking the lead role in combating climate change, Khan also briefed President XI on Pakistan's wide-ranging measures undertaken for climate change mitigation and adaptation, including the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami initiative a landmark project supported by the United Nations Environment Programme which sets out to plant ten billion trees by 2023.

The discussion also veered towards Afghanistan. The two leaders called on the community to provide immediate humanitarian and economic assistance as well as continued engagement required for rebuilding the war-torn nation.

The Prime Minister also stressed the need to continue with the momentum of high-level exchanges to further diversify All Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two countries.

Through the course of the conversation, Khan congratulated President Xi on the centenary of the Communist Party of China, the unprecedented victory in the Chinese people's battle to eradicate poverty.

The two leaders also felicitated each other on the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, and reviewed the gamut of their bilateral strategic cooperative partnership.

Khan has extended his invitation to Xi to visit Pakistan at his early convenience.

(Only the headline and picture of this report may have been reworked by the Business Standard staff; the rest of the content is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)
Prime Minister on Tuesday approved the appointment of Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum as the new chief of Pakistan's spy agency ISI, putting an end to the ongoing tiff between the government and the powerful Army over the key post.

The army on October 6 announced Lt Gen Anjum replacing Lt Gen Faiz Hameed as the chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence or but the Prime Minister's Office withheld the official notification, saying that the civilian government was not properly consulted.

However, the issue was resolved after a meeting of Army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Prime Minister Khan on Tuesday, according to a statement by the PMO.

"The meeting was part of the ongoing consultation process between the Prime Minister and Chief of Army Staff about the timing of change of command in and selection of the new DG (Director General) ISI, it said.

It further stated that during this process of appointment a list of officers was received from the ministry of Defence and the Prime Minister interviewed all the nominees.

"A final round of consultation was held between the Prime Minister and Chief of Army Staff today. After this detailed consultative process, the name of Lt. Gen. Nadeem Anjum was approved as new DG ISI, it said.

The designated chief shall assume charge on 20th November, according to the statement.

(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.)
Britain's carried out her first engagements on Tuesday since staying overnight in hospital last week, but Buckingham Palace confirmed that she will not be travelling to Glasgow for the COP26 climate summit next week.

According to the Royal Family's website, the monarch was listed as attending a reception on November 1 as part of the climate change conference, to be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

However, the palace confirmed on Tuesday evening that the Queen will continue to undertake only light duties from Windsor Castle and not travel to Scotland.

"Following advice to rest, the Queen has been undertaking light duties at Windsor Castle, a palace statement said.

"Her Majesty has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the Evening Reception of COP26 on Monday, November 1. Her Majesty is disappointed not to attend the reception but will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded video message," the statement said.

A series of royal COP26 engagements will now only include her son and heir Prince Charles and wife Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, as well as grandson Prince William and wife Kate Middleton between November 1 and 5.

Earlier, the 95-year-old monarch, who is based at Windsor Castle in Berkshire, held video call audiences with the South Korean and Swiss ambassadors at Buckingham Palace.

South Korea's Gunn Kim and ambassador from the Swiss Confederation Markus Leitner were pictured interacting with the Queen virtually.

Today the Queen received two Ambassadors in audience via video link from Windsor Castle, Buckingham Palace said in a statement on Twitter.

There are more than 170 Ambassadors and High Commissioners based in London at any given time and each will have an Audience with The Queen shortly after taking up his or her role, the statement noted.

Last week, a Buckingham Palace spokesperson said the Queen had spent a night at a London hospital on Wednesday for preliminary investigations and has been resting at Windsor Castle since.

The Queen stayed in King Edward VII's, a private hospital used by senior royals including her husband, the late Duke of Edinburgh, who received treatment there earlier this year. She also skipped her usual church service at Windsor on Sunday.

The Queen appeared in good spirits in pictures showing her virtual meeting with the ambassadors, who presented their Letters of Credence to her.

(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.)
An executive at faced tough questions on Tuesday during the video-sharing app's first appearance at a US congressional hearing, saying it does not give information to the Chinese government and has sought to safeguard US data.

Senators at the hearing also voiced concerns that TikTok, owned by Beijing-based internet technology company ByteDance, and rivals YouTube, owned by Alphabet Inc , and Snapchat have algorithms that can be harmful to young people.

Michael Beckerman, TikTok's head of public policy for the Americas, became the company's first executive to appear before Congress, testifying to a subcommittee of the Senate Commerce Committee. Republicans in particular pressed Beckerman on worries regarding TikTok's stewardship of data on the app's users.

Senator Marsha Blackburn, the panel's top Republican, said she is concerned about TikTok's data collection, including audio and a user's location, and the potential for the Chinese government to gain access to the information. Blackburn questioned Beckerman on whether could resist giving data to China's government if material were to be demanded.

"We do not share information with the Chinese government," Beckerman responded.

Under questioning by Republican Senator Ted Cruz, Beckerman said that has "no affiliation" with Beijing Technology, a entity at which the Chinese government took a stake and a board seat this year.

Beckerman also testified that TikTok's U.S. user data is stored in the United States, with backups in Singapore.

"We have a world-renowned U.S. based security team that handles access," Beckerman said.

Republican Senator John Thune said TikTok is perhaps more driven by content algorithms than even Facebook, as the app is famous for quickly learning what users find interesting and offering them those types of videos.

Beckerman said TikTok would be willing to provide the app's algorithm moderation policies in order for the Senate panel to have it reviewed by independent experts.

Executives from YouTube and Snapchat also testified. In a show of bipartisanship, senators of both parties, including Democratic panel chairman Richard Blumenthal, accused the three of exposing young people to bullying and sometimes steering them to information that encouraged harmful behaviors such sexualized games or anorexia.

The executives responded that their have sought to create a fun experience and to exclude dangerous or unsavory content.

Republican former President Donald Trump had sought to bar TikTok - a popular platform used by millions of Americans to post short videos - from U.S. app stores, saying it collected data from American users that could be obtained by China's government and posed a threat to U.S. national security.

Democratic President later revoked Trump's plan, but sought a broader review of various foreign-controlled apps.
Shares of (BoB) and (PNB) hit fresh 52-week highs, regaining Rs 50,000 market capitalisation (m-cap) on Tuesday on the back of a stable outlook.

Individually, BoB rallied 6.5 per cent to Rs 102.85 on the back of heavy volumes. The stock of state-owned lender has outperformed the market by surging 35 per cent in the past one month, as against the S&P BSE Sensex, which has gained 2.5 per cent during the same period.

At 09:59 am, BoB was trading 5 per cent higher at Rs 101.40, relative to the Sensex's 0.66 per cent gain. A combined 46.2 million equity shares had changed hands on the counter on the NSE and BSE till the time of writing of this report. Currently, the bank has an m-cap of Rs 52,515 crore, BSE data shows.

Shares of PNB, too, hit a 52-week high of Rs 47.40, up 5.5 per cent on the BSE in the intra-day trade today. The bank's m-cap stood at Rs 51,641 crore, data shows. In the past one month, the stock has surged 25 per cent.

On October 6, 2021, Moody's Investors Service (Moody's) affirmed the 'Ba1' long-term local and foreign currency deposit ratings of BoB, PNB, Canara Bank and Union Bank of India, as well as their 'b1' BCAs. Their rating outlook has been changed to stable from negative.

"The affirmation of ratings and BCAs, and change in outlook to stable from negative, reflect the fact that despite the significant economic challenges since the onset of the pandemic, their asset quality has only deteriorated modestly while capital has improved," Moody's said.

It added: Corporate asset quality has improved as legacy issues have been resolved while deterioration in retail asset quality was relatively moderate. Asset quality will further improve if economic activity continues to normalize.

The core equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratios of these four banks were higher at end June 2021 compared to March 2020. Capital increased as all four raised equity from capital The ability to access equity capital is a key credit positive as it reduces the dependence on the government for capital, according to the agency's analysis.

Profitability will improve over the next 12-18 months as credit costs will decline in line with a lower nonperforming loans (NPL) formation rate. Funding and liquidity remain the strongest parts of their credit profiles, as reflected in high share of retail deposits and low cost of funding.

Moody's continues to assume a very high level of government support in their ratings, leading to unchanged three notch uplift in their deposit ratings. These four banks rank among the seven biggest banks in India, with deposit market shares ranging between 6-7 per cent. Their systemic importance is further enhanced by the strong links to the government, it said.

Meanwhile, the stock of Canara Bank, too, hit a fresh 52-week high of Rs 207.15, up 2.6 per cent, having rallied 31 per cent in the past one month. Union Bank India, too, gained 2.6 per cent at Rs 49.60 in the intra-day trade today. The stock had hit a 52-week high of Rs 51.70 on October 21, 2021. In the past one month, it has zoomed 44 per cent.
A global association for regulated funds that is leading efforts to shorten the settlement cycle for US has reached out to the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) with a plea to extend the T+1 implementation timeline by 18 months. The short transition period of four months does not provide foreign portfolio investors (FPIs), their services providers, and broker dealers sufficient time to make the necessary operational and compliance changes to accommodate a shorter settlement cycle, ICI Global said in its letter addressed to chairman Ajay Tyagi written a few days back. ICI Global carries out the international work of the Investment Company Institute (ICI), a global association for regulated funds, whose members manage assets of more than $42 trillion. The association believes that an optional T+1 settlement on a scrip-by-scrip basis will introduce unnecessary operational complexity and risk in the settlement system. Under this model, the same security could be on a T+1 settlement cycle on one exchange and T+2 on the other. The systems currently used by FPIs and their service providers do not have the capability to code for different settlement cycles in the same market. This will make it operationally challenging to track and manage which securities are settling T+1 versus T+2. India trades will require manual intervention during processing, delaying the process and increasing the chance for errors and operational risk, particularly during high volume volatile trading days, ICI Global said in its note. Due to time zone differences, a compressed confirmation deadline could result in more failed trades. Under the existing T+2 settlement cycle, an FPI must send trade settlement instructions on T+1 for the local custodian to meet its requirement of trade confirmation by T+1. In a shorter settlement cycle, trade settlement instructions from the FPI will need to be sent to the local custodian on T (India time), to allow the local custodian to confirm the trade by close of the business day on T. Currently, an FPI does not have the capability to support this new timeline given the different time zones. To support T+1 settlement, FPIs and their service providers would need to completely re-engineer the settlement and funding process, ICI Global said in its note. Under the current settlement cycle, FPIs execute an FX transaction to fund the trade after the equity trade has been executed by the broker. A trade confirmation is required for the local custodian to book such a forex (Fx) transaction under the existing service level agreements. In a T+1 settlement cycle, to meet the local custodians funding deadline, FPIs may be forced to pre-fund INR.

Executing Fx on T-1 will subject FPIs to additional currency risk. For example, if an FPI funds INR and then the portfolio manager doesnt trade that full position or doesnt get the full execution, the FPI is left holding a long INR balance, the association observed.

It further said that there was an increased likelihood of unconfirmed trades for FPIs, resulting in increased hand-delivery trades as well as trade fails. Additional trade fails would lead to higher costs for FPIs, including regulated funds and their investors. In the Indian market, if a sale transaction fails on T+1, the mechanism to resolve this is through a buy-in at auction. We understand that the cost of purchasing an equity security at auction can be up to 20 per cent of the trade value, it said.

In 2017, ICI along with Depository Trust & Clearing Corporation (DTCC), and the Securities and Futures Association (SIFMA) led a successful industry effort to shorten the settlement cycle from T+3 to T+2 in the US. Many other markets, such as Canada and Mexico followed suit.

It is leading a similar effort to shorten the settlement cycle for US to T+1 from May this year, with a 24-30 month timeframe for making the transition.

Pushing back September 7: asks exchanges to introduce shorter T+1 settlement cycle on an optional basis from January 1, 2022 September 7: Association of Global Custodians, comprising six foreign banks that cater to India, warn of unforeseen consequences of moving to T+1 September 29: FPI associations Asia Securities Industry & Financial Association, Asia TraderForum and The Investment Association write an open letter to Sebi to defer T+1 October 12: Virtual call between FPIs, brokers, custodians, RBI and FinMin to discuss operational challenges of moving to T+1 October 18: ICI Global asks Sebi to push back T+1 deadline by 18 months
The pool of potential buyers for fossil-fuel stocks keeps shrinking and shrinking.

About 1,500 investment institutions overseeing a combined $39.2 trillion of assets are now committed to divesting from fossil fuels, according to a report issued Tuesday by DivestInvest. Thats a huge increase from $52 billion across 181 institutions in 2014, the first year the group tallied such commitments.

So far in 2021, the $16 billion Ford Foundation, started by the son of Henry Ford and now one of the largest private family foundations in the world, said it will cease to invest in fossil fuels. Harvard University made a similar pledge for its giant $42 billion endowment and Maine became the first U.S. state to order its public pension fund to sell off fossil-fuel holdings.

New York Citys pension funds have announced plans to divest about $4 billion worth of fossil fuel-related investments and Canadas second-largest pension manager, Caisse de Depot et Placement du Quebec, has said it will sell billions of dollars worth of oil assets, including large equity stakes in Canadas top crude producers, as part of a new strategy that aims to dramatically cut the emissions from its investments.

The fossil-fuel divestment movement is growing at an accelerated clip, because the world has realized where the money flows determines our success in slowing climate change, said Richard Brooks, climate finance director at environmental nonprofit Stand.earth. More money simply needs to get out of financially risky coal, oil and gas companies, and switched over to companies driving climate solutions, including renewables.

Dumping fossil fuels is a quick win for funds wishing to decarbonize portfolios, yet whether it also produces a positive outcome for the climate is fiercely debated. Simply selling fossil-fuel stocks doesnt change the demand or use of fossil fuels, and in fact can lead to carbon-intensive companies being held predominantly in portfolios of investors that are less motivated to push for lower emissions.

Still, authors of the DivestInvest report said the movement can now offer solid proof that divestment is a sound financial strategy and that fossil fuels are a bad bet financially. Early adopters of divestment strategies are reporting positive financial results and more institutions cite the financial reality that climate change will make fossil fuels obsolete and a renewable energy future inevitable, according to the report.

That chimes with the findings of a BlackRock Inc. report commissioned by New York City that said no investors found significant negative performance from divestment, but rather have reported neutral to positive results.
The may continue to trade on a cautious note as more and more brokerage firms raise the valuation flag. However, the start this morning could be positive with the SGX Nifty up 69 points at 18,223. Here are the top stocks to focus in trade today:



Earnings Today: ABB, Ambuja Cement, Axis Bank, Bajaj Finance, BirlaSoft, Canara Bank, Central Bank, Cipla, Gati, Greaves Cotton, Hikal Chemicals, IRB, Kotak Bank, Mahindra Lifespace, Mahanagar Gas, MRPL, Persistent Systems, Torrent Pharma and Zensar Technologies are some of the prominent companies to announce September quarter results today.

Reliance Industries: A day after the stock failed to cheer investor sentiment despite strong Q2 performance will be in focus today, as the company yesterday unveiled more features of its upcoming affordable Jio Next phone, stating that the launch could be before Diwali. READ MORE



The RP-Sanjiv Goenka group was declared as one of the successful bidders in the Indian Premier League. It will own the Lucknow franchise for 10 years, for a payment of Rs 709 crore per year starting 2022. READ MORE Q2FY22 net rose 25.8 per cent YoY to Rs 1,339 crore, while revenue grew 16.1 per cent YoY to Rs 10,881 crore. C P Gurnani, MD & CEO, Tech Mahindra, said this was one of the best quarters in a decade. READ MORE Q2FY22 net plunged 76.9 per cent to Rs 42 crore as against Rs 181.9 crore in Q2FY21. Revenue, however, was up 23.9 per cent at Rs 2,451.8 crore from Rs 1,978.5 crore in the same period.

HDFC Asset Management Company: Q2 net up marginally by 1.8 per cent YoY at Rs 344.38 crore from Rs 338.06 crore. Revenue up 18.9 per cent YoY at Rs 542.33 crore from Rs 456.25 crore.

HDFC Bank: Competition Commission of India approves acquisition of 4.99 percent of outstanding equity share capital of HDFC Ergo General Insurance Company by the bank.

Kansai Nerolac Paints: September quarter consolidated net nearly halves to Rs 87.28 crore from Rs 167.96 crore in a year ago period. Revenue, however, rose 17.1 per cent YoY to Rs 1,619.64 crore.

Birla Sun Life: Newly-listed Aditya Birla Sun Life (ABSL) AMC reported 38 per cent jump in Q2 net at Rs 173 crore.

Indus Towers: Q2FY22 net surged 37.8 per cent YoY to Rs 1,558.5 crore, while revenue grew 8.1 per cent YoY to Rs 6,876.5 crore.

Orient Cement: Q2 net soars 63.3 per cent to Rs Rs 56.88 crore for the quarter ended September 2021, as against Rs 34.82 crore in the quarter ended September 2020. Revenue also jumped 28.4 per cent to Rs 613.12 crore from Rs 477.5 crore in the same period.

Home First Finance Company: Net profit jumped 3-fold to Rs 44.86 crore in Q2FY22 from Rs 14.3 crore in Q2FY22. Revenue was up 34.4 per cent YoY at Rs 146.1 crore from Rs 108.7 crore.

Stocks in F&O ban today: Escorts, Indiabulls Housing Finance, Indian Energy Exchange (IEX), NMDC, SAIL and Sun Tv are in F&O ban today.
Delhi Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party Convenor will pay obeisance to Ram Lalla at Ram Janmabhoomi and at Hanuman Garhi temple on Tuesday.

In a tweet by the party's official handle on Monday, it read, " Convenor and Chief Minister of Delhi, will worship at the Hanuman Garhi Temple and Shri Ram Janmbhoomi in Ayodhya, tomorrow. Date: 26 October 2021, Time: 9:00 AM."

Earlier on Monday, Kejriwal joined the Maha Aarti on the holy bank of the river Sarayu, worshipped the Goddess and took her blessings.

"Had the privilege of attending Maa Saryu Aarti in Ayodhya, the city of Lord Shri Ram," tweeted Kejriwal.

This development pours in just days before the festival of Diwali will be celebrated across the country on November 3-4. In North India, the festival marks the homecoming of Lord Rama (along with Goddess Sita, Lord Lakshmana, and Lord Hanuman) to the city of after defeating the demon Ravana.

Further, this visit by Kejriwal comes just months before the Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections to be held in 2022. Notably, will also contest the elections in the state.

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Extreme tensions between religious groups of continues to persist despite actions by law enforcement officials and local government bodies after days of in various cities.

sites are being flooded with different rumours promoting as different sects try to foment hatred and draw sympathy to themselves, Dhaka Tribune reported.

Tensions have been simmering in as unabated targeted attacks are being carried out against Hindus in the country, that started in Cumilla during Durga Puja have spread to other parts and there are reports of violence, arson and killing from various parts of the country.

At least 71 cases have been filed in different parts of the country in connection with the attacks on Hindus and around 450 were arrested for spreading rumours on

The latest example is a clash between Buddhists and Muslims of Katakhali in Howaikhyong under Teknaf that resulted in injuries to at least eight people on Sunday afternoon.

The two groups blamed each other for the clash as an altercation took place between a Muslim youth named Tofayel Ahmed and some Chakma youths, including Umongi Chakma, in the morning over a trivial matter.

broke out in several places in after news broke on about the alleged desecration of the Holy Quran at a Durga Puja venue on the bank of Nanuar Dighi.

Several puja venues were vandalized in the area of Chandpur, Chittagong, Gazipur, Bandarban, Chapainawabganj, and Moulvibazar, reported Dhaka Tribune.

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The benchmark indices bounced back in early afternoon trade. The Nifty index was trading above 18,150 mark, reversing from its day's low of 18,099.30. Realty stocks were in demand.

At 12:20 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, rose 60.65 points or 0.10% at 61,027.70. The Nifty 50 index gained 40.95 points or 0.23% at 18,166.35.

In the broader market, the S&P BSE Mid-Cap index added 1.07% while the S&P BSE Small-Cap index rose 1.60%.

The market breadth was strong. On the BSE, 2,106 shares rose and 1,034 shares fell. A total of 156 shares were unchanged.

Derivatives:

The NSE's India VIX, a gauge of market's expectation of volatility over the near term, declined 2.07% to 17.2450. The Nifty 28 October 2021 futures were trading at 18,179.05, at a premium of 12.7 points as compared with the spot at 18,166.35.

The Nifty option chain for 28 October 2021 expiry showed maximum Call OI of 73.8 lakh contracts at the 18,300 strike price. Maximum Put OI of 42.9 lakh contracts was seen at 18,000 strike price.

Buzzing Index:

The Nifty Realty index advanced 2.88% to 510.75. Macrotech Developers (up 7.54%), Brigade Enterprises (up 5.94%), Prestige Estates Projects (up 4.07%), Oberoi Realty (up 3.70%) and Sunteck Realty (up 3.54%) were the major gainers in the Realty segment.

Stocks in Spotlight:

Goa Carbon advanced 2.68% after the company informed about the resumption of operations at its Chhattisgarh-based Bilaspur unit. "The Kiln has been lit up from yesterday. After preliminary heat up and commencement of feeding of raw material, normal production is likely to resume shortly, the company said.

RattanIndia Enterprises declined 2.61%., Revolt, a company backed by RattanIndia Enterprises and an electric motorcycle manufacturer has opened dealership in Jaipur (Rajasthan). The dealership is company's eight experience centre in the country and will cater to customers for sales, services and spare in the region. Revolt has been witnessing a robust demand for its electric bikes in the festive season particularly with rising petrol prices. Revolt electric bikes provide great savings for its customers with running cost as low as Rs 9 per 100 km.

Mangalam Organics soared 9.48% after the company reported 55.7% rise in consolidated net profit to Rs 22.31 crore on a 66.6% increase in net sales to Rs 143.05 crore in Q2 FY22 over Q2 FY21. Profit before tax in Q2 FY22 stood at Rs 30.36 crore, up by 58.5% to Rs 19.15 crore in Q2 FY21. Separately, Mangalam Organics said that as a part of modernizing and continuously deploying new technologies at its manufacturing facility located at Kumbhivali village, Maharashtra, the company has commissioned new steam boilers and thermopac.

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Centrum Capital announced that the following documents have been executed today:

l. Business transfer Agreement (BTA) between Centrum Financial Services (CFSL), subsidiary company of the Company and Unity Small Finance Bank (USFB), step down subsidiary company of the Company, for the sale/ transfer of 'business undertaking' of CFSL to USFB via a slump sale, on a going concern and 'as-is-where-is' basis.

2.

Business transfer Agreement (BTA) between Centrum Microcredit (CML), subsidiary company of the Company and USFB, step-down subsidiary company of the Company, for the sale/ transfer of 'business undertaking' of CML to USFB via a slump sale, on a going concern and 'as-is-where-is' basis.

3. Shareholders Agreement (SHA) executed between CFSL, Resilient Innovations (RIPL) and USFB in connection with the shareholding of CFSL and RIPL in USFB.

The aforesaid agreements will become effective from the date Commencement of Business by USFB.

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Goa Carbon rose 2.94% to Rs 379.65 after the company informed about the resumption of operations at its Chhattisgarh-based Bilaspur unit.

"The Kiln has been lit up from yesterday. After preliminary heat up and commencement of feeding of raw material, normal production is likely to resume shortly, the company said.

Goa Carbon is in the business of manufacture and marketing of calcined petroleum coke. The Goa plant has the largest mechanical sieving and screening facilities for petcoke in India. The company also has two other plants, at Bilaspur in Chattisgarh and at Paradeep in Orissa.

The company reported a net profit of Rs 0.12 crore in the quarter ended June 2021 as against net loss of Rs 5.07 crore during the previous quarter ended June 2020. Net sales rose 124.36% YoY to Rs 124.79 crore in Q1 FY22.

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Infosys Ltd is quoting at Rs 1700, down 0.44% on the day as on 13:24 IST on the NSE. The stock jumped 55.84% in last one year as compared to a 52.82% rally in NIFTY and a 66.84% spurt in the Nifty IT index.

Infosys Ltd fell for a fifth straight session today. The stock is quoting at Rs 1700, down 0.44% on the day as on 13:24 IST on the NSE. The benchmark NIFTY is up around 0.24% on the day, quoting at 18169.15. The Sensex is at 61037.78, up 0.12%.Infosys Ltd has eased around 1.23% in last one month.Meanwhile, Nifty IT index of which Infosys Ltd is a constituent, has eased around 2.66% in last one month and is currently quoting at 35005.4, up 0.2% on the day. The volume in the stock stood at 27.21 lakh shares today, compared to the daily average of 74.29 lakh shares in last one month.

The benchmark October futures contract for the stock is quoting at Rs 1695.15, down 0.13% on the day. Infosys Ltd jumped 55.84% in last one year as compared to a 52.82% rally in NIFTY and a 66.84% spurt in the Nifty IT index.

The PE of the stock is 36.4 based on TTM earnings ending September 21.

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Jindal Stainless jumped 14.93% to Rs 190.45 after the company reported 34% rise in standalone net profit to Rs 363 crore on a 25% increase in total revenue to Rs 4,815 crore in Q2 FY22 as compared with Q1 FY21.

The company said that an overall healthy demand environment post the second wave of COVID in Q1 FY22 pulled up sales volume by 8% over Q1 FY22, to 256,664 tonnes in Q2 FY22. The upward rally in prices of input materials continued unabated throughout the second quarter.

The average LME prices of nickel and ferro-chrome in Q2 FY22 climbed by 10% and 21% respectively over Q1 FY22, which had a positive impact on inventory valuation. This, along with an improved volume mix, led to a 23% increase in EBITDA in Q2 FY22 over the sequential quarter. The company's EBITDA was Rs 711 crore in the second quarter.

All major end-use segments like process industry, pipe & tube, railways & wagons, and metro rail grew during the quarter keeping the stainless-steel demand firm. As general manufacturing picked-up pace during the quarter, demand for special grades like duplex and super austenitic, where JSL is an established supplier, also gained momentum.

Auto segment sales remained weak on account of the long waiting period necessitated by semiconductor shortage. Despite prevailing logistical challenges due to container scarcity, JSL maintained strong operational performance through advance planning and strategic sourcing of raw materials.

While maintaining major focus on the domestic markets, the business strategy helped the company increase its exports percentage from 20% in Q1 FY22 to 23% during Q2 FY22 to counter the continual surge in imports of stainless steel from China and Chinese-funded investments in Indonesia. The domestic share of sales volumes, however, declined to 77% in Q2 FY22 from 80% in Q1 FY22.

As compared to Q2 FY21, the company's net profit and sales in Q2 FY22 have increased by 269% and 53%, respectively.

Abhyuday Jindal, managing director, JSL, said: Economic recovery has led to improved sentiment in the overall business outlook. Once again, JSL has delivered robust performance which underlines our solid business fundamentals. Despite facing uncertainty and unprecedented challenges in logistics, we've been able to service our customers in India and abroad. At a time when the market is swamped with imports from China and Indonesia, the industry is looking forward to the government's timely action to encourage domestic manufacturing.

Jindal Stainless (JSL) is the largest manufacturer of stainless steel in India.

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Mahindra Lifespace Developers rose 6.48% to Rs 281.90 after the company reported consolidated net profit of Rs 6.52 crore in Q2 September 2021 as against net loss of Rs 13.33 crore in Q2 September 2020.

Consolidated net sales surged 92.46% to Rs 59.24 crore in Q2 September 2021 over Q2 September 2020. Pre-tax profit stood at Rs 23.93 crore in Q2 September 2021 compared with pre-tax loss of Rs 11.71 crore in Q2 September 2020.

Commenting on the performance, Arvind Subramanian, managing director & chief executive officer, Mahindra Lifespace Developers, said: "We have seen encouraging demand growth in both our residential and industrial parks businesses in Q2 FY22. Further, project execution has gained pace. The response to the launch of our first Mahindra Happinest project at Mahindra World City, Chennai has been very heartening. More than 80% of launched inventory in the project has been booked, an endorsement of our product-led strategy. We have multiple launches lined up in H2 FY22 across our priority markets and are hoping for a strong operational performance through the second half of the year. With gradual easing of travel restrictions, conversion of enquiries is likely to pick up pace in our industrial parks business."

During the quarter, the company achieved sales of Rs 303 crore (0.39 msft) in residential business. It launched a project at MWC Chennai with area of 0.20 msft. The firm completed 0.41 msft at Luminare, Gurgaon. The company attained collections of Rs 171 crore in residential business and leased 27.7 acres across MWC Jaipur and MWC Chennai.

The company's consolidated cost of debt stood at 6.7% while standalone cost of debt stood at 5.7%.

Mahindra Lifespace Developers' development footprint spans 27.4 million sq. ft. (2.5 million sq. m.) of completed, ongoing and forthcoming residential projects across seven Indian cities; and over 5000 acres of ongoing and forthcoming projects under development/management at its integrated developments/industrial clusters across four locations. Mahindra Lifespaces' development portfolio comprises premium residential projects; value homes under the 'Mahindra Happinest' brand; and integrated cities and industrial clusters under the 'Mahindra World City' and 'Origins by Mahindra' brands respectively.

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AAP leader on Tuesday offered prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi site here, and said his government will include the temple town of in the Delhi government's free pilgrimage scheme.

The Delhi chief minister also visited the Hanumangarhi temple here on the second day of his visit.

"I was fortunate that I got the chance to bow before Ram Lalla and I wish everyone must get this chance. Whatever capability I have, I will use that to make more and more people have 'darshan' here, Kejriwal said after visiting the temples.

"I prayed to Lord Rama that all my countrymen live happily, the pandemic of corona should end and our country must witness the best developments in the coming days, he said.

Elaborating on the plan to help people visit the temples here, Kejriwal said, In Delhi we are running the 'Chief Minister's Tirth Yatra Yojana' under which free pilgrimage is provided to the people of Delhi to all the pilgrim places including Vaishno Devi, Rameshwaram, Dwarka Puri, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Mathura and Vrindavan.

Kejriwal said a special cabinet meeting is scheduled in Delhi on Wednesday in which will be included in the list of the free pilgrimage tour programme.

Now the people of Delhi will be able to visit Ram Janmabhoomi as well, he added.

Under this scheme, Delhiites are provided travel by AC trains and stay in AC hotels and all the expenses are borne by the government of Delhi. This service is free of charge, he said.

Under the 'Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana' for senior citizens, the Delhi government bears the expenses of about 77,000 pilgrims every year.Delhi residents above the age of 60 are covered under this scheme.

On being asked whether he has made any donation for construction of the Ram temple, Kejriwal said, "I have also donated for Ram Mandir but donations must always be kept a secret".

The Delhi CM said on Twitter that he took the blessings of Shri Ram Lalla and also had 'darshan' of Bajrang Bali and prayed for the healthy life, happiness and prosperity of all countrymen.

Kejriwal, whose party has decided to take a plunge in the assembly elections in Uttar Pradesh, had offered 'aarti' on the banks of the Saryu river on Monday and said it was an honour to visit the birthplace of Lord Ram.

The party formally kicked off its poll campaign in September this year with its senior leaders Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh offering prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi and Hanumangarhi shrine in the temple town.

The party had also taken out a 'Tiranga Yatra' in Ayodhya from the 18th-century mausoleum of Nawab Shujaudaulah to the Gandhi Park.

The AAP has promised that it will provide 300 units of electricity free of cost to all domestic consumers, waive outstanding bills of 38 lakh families and ensure 24x7 power supply in Uttar Pradesh if it is voted to power in the assembly elections.

The AAP will contest all 403 assembly seats in Uttar Pradesh.

(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.)
Two journalists working for a web portal here in



were arrested on the charge of extortion on the complaint of two MLAs of who alleged that the accused duo had published a "misleading and baseless" targetting them, police said on Tuesday.

In their complaint to police, MLAs Brihaspat Singh and Kuldeep Juneja alleged the accused duo, identified as Madhukar Dubey and his assistant Avinash Palliwar, had published a misleading and baseless report on their news portal on October 24 in a bid to extort from the legislators, an officer said.

The journalists were arrested on Monday, said Civil Lines police station house officer (SHO) Satyaprakash Tiwari.

Police have registered a case under sections 189 (threat of injury to public servant), 384 (extortion), 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), 505(1)(b) (with intent to cause, or which is likely to cause, fear or alarm to the public, or to any section of the public whereby any person may be induced to commit an offence against the State or the public tranquility) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), he added.

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Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh's (RSS) Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar on Tuesday said that a three-day review meeting will be held here in Karnataka's Dharwad to discuss the recent violence against the Hindus in

As per a release, Ambekar said, "A three-day review meeting will be held on October 28, 29, 30 at Rashtraotthana Vidya Kendra, Dharwad."

"There have been continuous attacks on Hindus in These incidents have been condemned all over the world. In the meeting of the executive board, the incidents of violence against Hindus will be discussed. If there is a unanimous decision, a resolution is also likely to be passed," he added.

He said, "The meeting will start at 9 am. All COVID-19 protocols will be followed. A review meeting will take place in which we will discuss the preparation."

He said the country is celebrating the Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav. There will also be a discussion about the awakening of the country's self, information about unknown or little known freedom fighters.

He added that about 350 members are expected in the meeting. All India executives of all provinces and regions and the organization minister are expected in the meeting.

He further informed that was established in 1925, and 100 years of the Sangh are going to be completed in 2025. The work of the Sangh was considered from the point of view of expansion and work is going on for 3 years plan. This plan will also be discussed in detail in the meeting. There will also be a discussion about the programs to be held on the 400th Prakash Parv of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji on the executive board.

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Americans across the country are observing October as the Hindu Heritage Month, with more that 20 of the 50 states and over 40 cities issuing proclamations about it, community leaders said Monday.

The first ever initiative of Hindu groups in the country has been welcomed by elected representatives who have issued proclamations and notifications to acknowledge the contributions of this minority community in the US.

Hindus worldwide celebrate Navratri, Dussehra, Durga Puja, and Diwali around October. Hence, this month was considered by several US-based Hindu organisations to celebrate as the Hindu Heritage Month, a media release said.

From Yoga to food, festivities to charity, dances to music, and non-violence to profound philosophy, a Hindu way has touched all walks of life in the US. The Hindu community is celebrating this month in any and all of these forms that uniquely identify with the Hindu community, it said.

Among the states that have issued these notifications are Texas, Ohio, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Georgia, Florida, Minnesota, Virginia, Nevada, Mississippi, Delaware, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Wisconsin, Missouri, Indiana and Michigan.

Troy in Michigan, Irvine in Californiam Portland in Oregon and Irving and Houston in Texas are some of the cities to recognise October as the Hindu Heritage Month. For the American leaders across the nation, the contribution of the ancient Hindu way and, more importantly, the active role of Hindus in American society was worth appreciation and praise, the release said.

While US Congressman Troy Balderson acknowledged the resilience of the Hindu American community in his letter of recognition, Congressman Raja Krishnamurthy termed Hindusim a "uniquely pluralistic religion".

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker said the vibrant Hindu community contributed tremendously in "the vitality of the Commonwealth..."



In addition to acknowledging Diwali and the contribution of Hindus, the City of Troy, Michigan, also recognised the charity carried out by the community during the festival.

A Hindu leader, Bindu Patel, thanked the City of Irving, for appreciating the community and supporting Hindu Heritage Month activities. She said the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) is working with the local interfaith community and celebrating Diwali as "Sewa Diwali food drive" with a spirit of giving back to the society.

HSS volunteer Rajender Sandadi from Troy, Michigan, accepted the proclamation during a City Hall meeting with the community's representatives. He thanked the city for inclusiveness in action and for appreciating the contribution of the Hindu society.

"This year, Diwali falls in the first week of November. Hence, it is expected that the Hindu Heritage Month will naturally get extended by a few more weeks in its celebrations and spirit of giving," the release said.

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continues to bully its to try to coerce them into behaviour that is more in keeping with its or economic interests, the said on Monday.

Press Secretary John Kirby was speaking to reporters at a news conference.

" continues to bully its to try to coerce them into behaviour that is more in keeping with China's or economic interests. And we don't believe that that is conducive to a free and open Indo-Pacific," Kirby said.

The Biden administration, he said, has put a real premium on bolstering and reinforcing its alliances and partnerships in that area and making sure they have proper defensive capabilities in place to deal with the security challenges that exist out there.

"So, we're going to continue to work as hard as we can," he said.

Responding to a question, Kirby said the United States is certainly mindful of the tensions along the India- border.

"Obviously, nobody wants to see the situation become more tense or certainly more violent than it has in the past but I think I'd let Indian authorities speak to the conversations and in how they're dealing with the tensions," he said.

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president on Tuesday emphasised on the need for discipline and unity, saying strengthening the organisation must override personal ambitions.

Chairing a meeting of top party leaders to evolve a strategy for assembly elections in five states early next year, she said the party must redouble its fight for the victims of the Union government's "worst excesses".

Gandhi also expressed concern over the party's messages on key issues not percolating down to the grassroot cadres, and said there is lack of clarity and cohesion even among state leaders.

Former party chief also attended the meeting of party general secretaries, in-charges and Pradesh presidents at the headquarters here.

The leaders have also come together to chalk out a strategy for the party's new membership drive and finalise the modalities for it. The drive is starting from November 1 and will continue till March 31 next year.

"I would like to re-emphasise the paramount need for discipline and unity. What should matter to each and every one of us is the strengthening of the organisation. This must override personal ambitions. In this lies both collective and individual success," said in her opening remarks.

Stressing on training programmes for party workers, the chief said it should be taken up on priority.

"The fight to defend our democracy, our constitution and the Congress party's ideology begins with being fully prepared to identify and counter false propaganda.

"We must fight the diabolical campaign of BJP/RSS ideologically. We must do so with conviction and expose their lies before the people if we are to win this battle," she said.

Noting that releases important and detailed statements almost every day on issues facing the nation, said, "But it is my experience that they do not percolate down to our grass root cadres at the block and district level. There are policy issues on which I find a lack of clarity and cohesion even amongst our state-level leaders."



Attacking the Modi government, she said it has sought to erode our institutions so it may evade accountability and has sought to undermine the core values of our constitution so it can hold itself to a lower standard.

It has questioned the very fundamentals of our democracy, she said.

"We must redouble our fight for those who are the victims of this government's worst excesses: our farmers and farm labourers, our youth fighting for jobs and opportunities, small and medium scale businesses, our brothers, our sisters with particular focus on the deprived," she stressed.

On the elections to five states, the Congress leader said our campaign must be founded upon concrete policies and programmes emanating from widespread discussions with all sections of society.

Assembly elections in the states of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Goa and Manipur are slated early next year.

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Realty firm Smart World Developers, which has been set up by M3M group promoters, on Tuesday said it will invest around Rs 3,000 crore to develop the company's first two in

The company plans to launch two housing projects during this month after getting the necessary regulatory approvals.

"We are planning to launch two housing projects in November comprising around 4,000 flats and 6 million square feet of developable area. We have already acquired land for these two projects," Smart World Developers CEO Vivek Singhal told reporters here.

He said the total investment on these two projects is estimated at around Rs 3,000 crore and the total sales realisation is expected at about Rs 5,000 crore. These two projects will mainly have low-rise floors under Haryana government scheme.

The CEO said that the company would target Rs 75 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore price bracket in market initially.

Singhal said the company has already raised around Rs 400 crore from Piramal group and India Infoline for development of these projects. The investments have been made in the two Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) formed to build these two projects.

The company aims to launch 1-2 more projects by the end of this fiscal year, he said.

The CEO informed that the new company has been established by Pankaj Bansal and his wife Aishwarya Bansal, who are among the promoters of Gurugram-based M3M group.

Aishwarya Bansal, the co-founder of the new company, said that Smart World Developers will focus on developing projects keeping in mind the requirement of millenial. She said the company will develop across major cities of the country and will not restrict itself to the Gurgaon market.

Smart World President (Sales and Marketing) Ashish Jerath said the company is looking to expand in key real estate markets such as Gurugram, Noida, Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), Pune, Bengaluru, Goa and Hyderabad in the near future.

"We are targeting to achieve a sales bookings of around Rs 5,000 crore during the current fiscal," he said. On the long-term, the company intends to develop 25 million square feet of and will invest Rs 8,000-10,000 crore in only.

Singhal said the company is in talks with landowners for joint development agreements (JDAs) to build housing project across major cities.

According to a recent report from housing brokerage firm PropTiger, housing sales across eight major cities registered an annual growth of 59 per cent during July-September at 55,907 units, while demand jumped over three-fold against the previous quarter.

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Data breaches and cyber attacks are expected to grow to large scale with the adoption of digitisation by both businesses as well as consumers, Israel-based cyber security firm Check Point said on Tuesday.

The company expects cyber groups will continue to leverage fake news campaigns to execute various phishing attacks and scams.

"Going into 2022 we will see an increase in data breaches that will be on a larger scale. These breaches will also have the potential to cost organizations and governments more to recover. In May 2021, the US insurance giant paid USD 40 million in ransom to hackers. This was a record, and we can expect ransom demanded by attackers to increase in 2022," Check Point said in its prediction report.

India is one the top 10 countries that faces most of the cyber attacks.

According to industry estimates, cyber crimes caused a loss of around USD 6 trillion to the global economy in 2020.

"We can expect ransom demand by attackers to increase in 2022. Going into 2022 we will see an increase in data breaches that will be larger scale. These breaches will also have the potential to cost organizations and governments more to recover," the report said.

It said that mobile malware attacks are expected to increase with increase in use of mobile wallets and mobile payment platforms.

"The sophistication and scale of cyber-attacks will continue to break records and we can expect a huge increase in the number of ransomware and mobile attacks," Maya Horowitz, VP Research, Check Point Software.

(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 hasn't been long since launched its X60 series (review) that placed the Chinese smartphone maker at a fine spot in the cluttered smartphone market in India.

And did not take long to launch its X70 series, yet again in collaboration with lens major Zeiss.

The X70 series is geared towards content creators as imaging remains a focus here, not just that, the new series also features Vivos V1 imaging chip, which the company claims took almost two years to develop.

That said, Vivos X60 Pro and X60 Pro+ had already set the bar so high for rivals and now with a new iteration in the X series, it remains to be seen if lives up to the expectation. I took the X70 Pro+ for a spinfrom photography to gaming, I put the phone to a stiff test to see whats on offer. Ill talk about everything this phone has to offer in this review:

Vivo X70 Pro+: Design and build quality





The very first thing one notices in the X70 Pro+ is the rear camera module that gives this phone a distinct look and premium touch. Right next to it is a reflective panel which, it seems, is only to add more element to its looks. The next thing is the smooth, fingerprint resistant matte glass finish which makes the piece all the more premium.

The overall body is pretty simple: there are three buttons on the right edge for volume and power, a USB-C and, yes, a speaker grill at the bottom.





At 213g, this phone cant be called lightweight it feels heavy in the pocket or while you hold it. Due to its aesthetics, the piece is a bit slippery, so one has to be really careful. I had to use the faux leather cover that comes in the package to get a slightly better grip.

The phone has stereo speakers, a USB-C at the bottom, and a SIM card tray right next to it.

Overall, the X70 Pro+ is second to none when it comes to looks, the only thing is its slightly heavy and large, so a bit of care is needed for everyday use.

Vivo X70 Pro+: Display





The X70 Pro+ boasts a 6.7-inch WQHD+ AMOLED curved display. The display has a Schott Xensation protection, so the phone may be able to handle accidental falls on some occasions.

Overall, the display is crisp and bright, even when uses outdoors. Vivo has done a great job with the display as watching any web series or gaming makes it worthwhile.

The display also supports HDR10+ so high-quality videos look even better. Moreover, The panel features a 120Hz refresh rate so things are pretty smooth, be it gaming or usual scrolling.





Finally, Vivo has also fixed the speaker issue as now you get stereo speaker setup, with the earpiece doubling up as the second speaker. I must say the speakers are loud and watching anything without earphones is not the problem now.

Also new is the IP68 rating which means you get good protection against dust and water.

Vivo X70 Pro+ performance





The X70 Pro+ has pretty much everything you can ask for from a flagship device -- powered with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 888+ processor, which is a minor upgrade to the Snapdragon 888, this phone has 12GB of LPDDR5 RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage.

The FunTouch OS has improved significantly and it's safe to say there is less clutter or any other fuss.

While the regular social media, multimedia, or any other task is a breeze for a device this powerful, the real test was if it can handle intense gaming, for that, I played Call of Duty and a few other games, and I must say, it was a smooth experience. What's even better is the speakers are now better than what it was in X60 Pro, so you get a proper gaming feel.

Vivo X70 Pro+: Battery

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample

Vivo X70 Pro+ features a 4,500mAh battery which can easily last for a day with regular social media use, calls, some gaming and a lot of photography. You can easily rely on this phone's battery if you are usually out for long hours. The battery takes about an hour to charge fully.

The package includes a 55W charger and this phone supports 50W wireless charging for which the dock will be available soon.

Vivo X70 Pro+: Camera

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample

This is where it gets even interesting as there is plenty to write about the cameras in Vivo X70 Pro+. In total, you get four rear cameras including a 50-megapixel wide-angle camera, a 48-megapixel ultra-wide-angle camera with gimbal for stabilisation, a 12-megapixel telephoto camera with 2X optical zoom, and an 8-megapixel telephoto camera with 5X optical zoom. There is a 32-megapixel camera for selfies.

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample

What's different this time is Vivo's Imaging Chip V1 which helps the camera with accuracy and colours. All the shooters have a Zeiss T coating which reduces lens glare.

To put it simply, the cameras work brilliantly in both indoor and outdoor photography. The images are crisp, bright, full of details with impressive colour accuracy. The image quality exceeds expectations if given the right light conditions.

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample

At times, images look over sharp but that's something we have often seen in Vivo phones.

There is 5X optical Zoom up to which the images come out really well, beyond that, you get 60x digital zoom which isn't too impressive, but good to have in scenarios where you are too far from the subject.

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample

I tried night photography and while a lot depends on the light conditions, on some occasions, I was able to get good details while capturing the night sky.

Rest, outdoor photography is fun using this phone. There are several features you can try including, Astro mode, long exposure, Slo-mo, Supermoon, etc. You also get good selfies with impressive edge detection.

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample

The Zeiss portrait mode will make you want to click more pictures as the background blurring is on point most of the time.

You can record 8K videos at 30 fps, 4K videos up to 60 fps, besides the usual 1080p videos. There is also a feature for high stabilisation in case you are moving while recording a video.

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample

I had a great time recording videos on this phone. They come out really well and the phone captures the sound easily.

Overall, the cameras are powerful and capable.

Vivo X70 Pro+: Verdict

At Rs 79,999, Vivo X70 Pro+ is a complete device with several features, an amazing camera, and performance. This is truly a premium flagship and justifies its heavy price tag.

Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample





Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample





Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample





Vivo X70 Pro+ camera sample
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], October 26 (ANI/NewsVoir): Kirtilals, a premium fine diamond and gold jewellery brand, esteemed by its patrons for quality and trust, launched its Exclusive Bridal Diamond Jewellery Collection at their Chennai Alwarpet Showroom.

Actress Sanchita Shetty launched the collection & graced the occasion followed by a fashion sequence unveiling their festive collection.

Kirtilals have crafted timeless traditional and contemporary designs to commemorate the big day. This bridal collection, with its unique design, is handcrafted with precision. Each piece in this collection represents elite quality and intricate craftsmanship.

With the collection consisting of exclusive designs in Necklace, Haram, Bangles, Earrings and Waist Belt, will pave the way for customers to witness and access a wide range of jewellery pieces to decide on, along with festive offer of Rs.10,000 off per carat on 80 years of Kirtilals quality diamonds.

Speaking on the occasion, Suraj Shantakumar, Director - Business Strategy, Kirtilals said, "It gives me immense pleasure to launch our new Bridal jewellery collection in this occasion. Kirtilals has always been one of the most preferred bridal jewellery brand and we are happy to associate with Madras Bridal Fashion Show. Fashion shows are a channel of communication & is a form of expression for both creator and wearer. It helps in creating interest among the public to spread awareness about new designs & styles. We are confident that our new bridal designs which is intricately crafted create interest to the customers & adds value to the show."

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Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], October 26 (ANI/BusinessWire India): The recently concluded 'The Design India Show' awarded Oddinary with India's Best Brand Design Studio Award along with India's Best Design Project 2021 for the second time in a row, in recognition of its stellar work in the field of packaging and design.

Speaking about the award, Vinay Thakker - Founder and CEO, Oddinary Brand Strategy and Design, said, "The major challenge for us at Oddinary was to continue producing high-quality design solutions in crunched timelines for Covid-response projects while adapting to the new norms of working. It is very encouraging for the team to not just see businesses that we have partnered with show profitability, but also to gain recognition for these projects from a global jury. Design and packaging is a very important and often under-utilised armour that 100% of the consumers of a brand are exposed to."

Headquartered in Mumbai, Oddinary has worked with over 70 brands, across more than 24 countries including key accounts like Hershey's, Kellogg's, Flipkart, Unilever, Abbott, Marico, etc. Rendering services such as Brand Strategy, Branding, Packaging, and Shopper Marketing. Oddinary has garnered numerous other prestigious awards across the world, making them one of India's truly Global Design and Creative Agency.

Initiated in 2015, "India's Best Design Awards" are the first to recognise Design Studios for their professional work, business practices, and transparency. They recognise agencies in multiple categories including Best Brand Design, Spatial Design, Graphic Design, Digital Design. The theme of the award this time was 'Unmute' and focussed on how we are getting back to a changed world. Vinay Thakker, the CEO of Oddinary was also a part of the panel along with other business and design leaders to discuss and present their views on 'Unmuting' now.

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Pune (Maharashtra)[ India] October 26( ANI/Newsvoir): Sany India, a leading manufacturer of construction equipment and heavy machinery further strengthened its presence in Tamil Nadu by opening a full-fledged Company Owned & Company Operated (COCO) 4 S outlet in Tiruchirappalli. As the regional headquarters, the new outlet will be a one-stop solution for their customer needs and will reach untapped market segments with ample support from their branches in Madurai, Tirunelveli and Villupuram. Deepak Garg, MD, Sany India and South Asia who inaugurated this outlet in the presence of senior management team announced plans to open similar set-up in Pudukottai and Nagercoil in the coming months.

Speaking on the occasion Dheeraj Panda, Chief Operating Officer (Sales, Marketing and Customer Support) said, "One of the most significant core values of our company is all for customers, all from innovation. Our new COCO model experience outlet is a significant step towards this goal. Tamil Nadu has emerged as a strong market for us as far as the growth in product sales and high level of customer satisfaction is concerned. It will be pertinent to mention here that Sany India holds a strong presence in the state with its other authorized dealer partner M/s Santosh Motors. We look forward to making further inroads into this beautiful state and hope to live up to the expectations of our patrons in the future as well."

The new outlet at Tiruchirappalli has a state-of-the-art centralized parent warehouse where the necessary parts and machine will be maintained with a potential to supply across the state thus staying close to their aim of bringing quality in all aspects of business. The COCO model caters to over 22 districts with a footprint of 1:15 machine ratio.

Sany India was incorporated in 2002 and offers the widest range of Construction Machinery in India & South Asia. In 2012, Sany India invested more than INR 600 crore to develop infrastructure for R & D, Manufacturing, Quality Inspection, Testing, and Service at their manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune. Through this facility, the company operates in four Business verticals viz: Excavator, Heavy Equipment, Concrete Machinery, and Renewable Energy. Presently, Sany India offers products like excavators, truck-mounted cranes, all-terrain and rough terrain cranes, crawler cranes, transit mixers, batching plants, boom pumps, trailer pumps, piling rigs, motor graders, pavers, compactors, reach stackers, rubber-tyred gantry cranes, rail-mounted gantry cranes, mining equipment, wind turbine generators and many more. The company has already established a strong network of around 39 dealers and 180 plus touch points across India and South Asia to cater to the growing demand and provide support to all its customers & associates. Sany has more than 19,000 machines delivered on the ground, contributing to infrastructure development projects in India & other South Asian countries.

Owing to its widest product range, superior build quality, service commitment, innovative solutions, and global expertise, Sany India has achieved market leadership in various construction equipment segments. With the Government of India's focus on infrastructure development and modernization, the company is poised for tremendous growth.

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Dusseldorf [Germany], October 26 (ANI/NewsVoir): (https://srammram.com) SRAM & MRAM Group to participate in A+A 2021 International Trade Fair and Congress to be held in Germany from October 26-29, 2021.

The group will be showcasing "(https://www.walletz4u.com)" during the summit. In a bid to shape tomorrows' world, how do we want to live, work and operate in this world while treating our fellow human beings and the available resources ecologically and responsibly?

The strategic collaboration with Gruppo Esseci and SRAM & MARAM Group in Italy will further strengthen the market offering and exchanging ideas. Gruppo Esseci has more than 30 years of experience and passion dedicated to the research and realization of functional and high-standard products. Gruppo Esseci's brand name is BEMAN that has tied up with SRAM & MRAM Group to grow together in Italy market since Gruppo has an enriching and strong control in the Italy market.

Comprehensive insights, as well as solutions and products for the future of work, will be part of the A+A 2021 Summit. The summit is expected to host more than 1,000 exhibitors. The leading international trade fair for safety, security and health at work will be opening its doors at the Dusseldorf Exhibition Centre from 26 to 29 October 2021.

The 37th Congress for Occupational Safety and Medicine congress for all experts and insiders will be organised by Basi, the German Federal Association for Occupation Safety and Health, and will be bringing together the OSH actors and decision-makers from industry, skilled crafts, administration, politics and science in Dusseldorf. This year the key focus area will be Work 4.0, possibilities of digitalisation and AI for occupational health, working in pandemic times as well as making Vision Zero a reality.

Walletz4u is the world's largest gloves OEM; a brand that is catering to multiple markets and verticals. The brand is synonymous with its high-quality latex, vinyl, nitrile, and rubber disposable gloves.

Each glove is backed with the seal of approval and with the commitment to bringing the products that one can trust to help keep you safe, healthy, and comfortable. Walletz4u is poised to become one of the largest glove manufacturers and resellers in the ASEAN and the world markets.

Speaking on the participation Samule Ghilardi CEO of GRUPPO ESSECI SRL quoted, "We are looking forward to being a part of A+A 2021 summit. We will be showcasing a plethora of medical products along with our flagship medical protection supply 'Walletz4u'. It will help us to understand the European market and will give us an opportunity to get closer to the stakeholders and the potential business prospects."

Addressing the participation Hemlata Arumugam, CEO SRAM & MRAM Group quoted, "We are proud to be associated with A+A 2021, where we'll be showcasing Walletz4u. The summit will help us in reaching out to the European region. It will certainly offer a great business proposition to showcase the advancement and the products to the stakeholders as well."

Hemlata is a highly motivated and result-oriented individual, capable of multitasking roles in various sectors, She possesses a vivid and rich technical knowledge in Gloves industries with a vision and strategy as how to grow worldwide. Her vision allowed her to grow and create marketing channels in major countries around the world, post-pandemic her vision caught the growing needs and demand for health products.

Speaking on the development, Claudio Zanetti, Country Head In Italy, SRAM & MRAM Group quoted, "A+A 2021 is a great platform, it's a forum that helps in bringing the merchants and manufacturers together. The summit is also the place to be in as it also offers great business prospects too. Besides this, the glove market will be growing exponentially and Beman and SRAM have done a strong partnership for growth in Italy. Furthermore, the partnership between the groups will also play an important role for growth in Italy and will help in addressing the growing needs and demand for health care products."

Vishal Ahuja, Global Sales Director, SRAM & MRAM Group said, "We are optimistic with the joint venture in Italy with the support of Claudio. We're looking forward to a greater alliance and business partnerships with this venture in place. With such a forum, we'll also be able to tap the unchartered territories in terms of business and technology and innovations."

The Trending themes at A+A 2021 in the industry characterise the appearance of A+A 2021-be it by the solutions and products that exhibitors present or by the numerous lectures and presentations at the Special Show areas and Trend Forum. Digital efficiency and sustainability determine the current debate and will continue strongly influencing the future of work. Alongside these megatrends at A+A 2021 the programme of side events will focus on Future Solutions, New Work and the topic Hygiene and the Pandemic.

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Noted filmmaker and LXL Ideas MD & Chief Learner, Syed Sultan Ahmed's short film 'Apples and Oranges' has won the National Film Award for the Best Educational Film. Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu presented the award to the film's Producer, Syed Sultan Ahmed and Director, Rukhsana Tabassum at the 67th National Film Awards function held at Vigyan Bhawan on Monday.

Sultan started producing films exclusively for children and education from 2010 and has produced over 120 short films for a project called SCHOOL CINEMA. These films are used as part of the school curriculum to teach Life Skills & Social-Emotional Intelligence that is recommended by the NEP 2020. Over 2 million children have watched these films as part of their school curriculum across India and the Middle East. In addition to winning 7 National Film Awards in India, the films produced by LXL Ideas have featured in over 450 International children's film festivals and won several accolades.

It is noteworthy that this is the seventh film produced by Syed Sultan Ahmed to be awarded the National Film Award. Prior to this, he received national awards for 'Red Building, Where the Sun Sets' (2011), 'The Finish Line' (2011), 'Chasing the Rainbow' (2013), 'Best Friends Forever' (2015), 'Little Magicians' (2016) and 'The Waterfall' (2016) in the categories of 'Best Film on Family Values', 'Best Film on Sports', 'Best Promotional Film', 'Best Film on Family Values', 'Best Film on Family Values' and 'Best Educational Film' respectively.

Humanity has been taught through the film 'Apples and Oranges'. It depicts the friendship/companionship between humans. It does not discriminate on the basis of caste, religion, region or colour. An incident that takes place in two villages named Apples and Oranges has been shot in this 15-minute film. It is shown in the film that there is enmity between these two villages. But two small girls of these two villages unknowingly become friends. When they come to know about the enmity, they break their friendship.

Sultan Ahmed's association with films and education

Syed Sultan Ahmed has been associated with films, research, publishing, and education for many years. He has established an institute named LXL Ideas. The organization works to provide life lessons through films, events, research, training, and publications. Sultan Ahmed has received many accolades for his work at the international level. A resident of Bengaluru, he completed his engineering from Bangalore University and went on to pursue Masters in Entrepreneurship from MIT-Boston. Many of his research papers on child development and film pedagogy have been published in various international research journals. He is the curator of Saudi Arabia's first Children's Film Festival.

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deputy governor T Rabi Shankar recently stirred the policy corridors with a debate around Capital Account Convertibility. Speaking at an industry event, he said there was an effort to liberalise FPI debt flows further with the introduction of the Fully Accessible Route, which places no limit on non-resident investment in specified benchmark securities. But what does Capital Account Convertibility mean? In simple terms, a capital account keeps a record of all the transactions related to assets between India and other countries. This includes all kinds of investment assets like shares, debt, and property, or even corporate assets. Currently, India has a partially convertible capital account policy. This is because an individual or high net-worth investor wanting to invest outside India can invest within an overall limit of $250,000 per financial year under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme for any permitted current or capital account transaction or a combination of both. This means, they can make investments to the tune of up to $500,000 in a calendar year.

The scheme, however, is not available to corporates, partnership firms, HUF, Trusts, etc.

Therefore, if India removes this limit on capital account transaction, we would have a fully convertible account, ideally raising outflow limits for HNIs.

Now, before we proceed towards the likely impact of the move, lets understand why the would want to remove capital account restrictions.

A fully convertible capital account provides three key benefits. These are stock market returns, reduction in transaction cost due to free rupee convertibility, and improvement in savings and investments which effectively accelerates growth.

Against this backdrop, Aditi Nayar, chief economist at ICRA, says this following while assessing where India stands on the conversion front and what the impact of the move could be

Govt, working to get India included in the Global Bond Indices

India liberalising norms related to G-sec investments

India may see $20-bn inflows per year

Rupee could depreciate

That said, Gaurang Shah, senior vice-president at Geojit Financial Services, cautions against too much money chasing too few asset classes:

Should be done in a phased manner

India must have checks and balances in place

Keeping a check on bad money (inflow) tough under full CAC

Given the macro-recovery, we may see access FPI inflows

Avoid too much money chasing too few asset classes

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The ministrys reports came just over a month after Chinese regulators required after-school institutions that teach core curriculum subjects to register as nonprofit entities by the end of this year. Photo: VCG

The number of tutoring institutions doing business has fallen in several pilot cities, including Beijing and Shanghai, according to a string of recent reports released by Chinas Ministry of Education, illustrating the impact that a national crackdown is having on the after-school education industry.

In Beijing, tutoring institutions of all kinds have suffered a 60% drop (link in Chinese) in their numbers since July, when the central government launched its double reduction policy, which aims to take some of the stress off overburdened elementary and middle school students by reducing the amount of homework and after-school tutoring they have to do.

The number of unlicensed institutions that offer classes covering core curriculum subjects in the capital has fallen by 98%, with such institutions completely eliminated from 12 of the capitals 16 districts, according to the ministry.

In addition, the city has levied more than 15 million yuan ($2.4 million) in fines against institutions that were operating illegally.

In Shanghai, the number of after-school curriculum-based tutoring institutions has fallen by 21.7% since July, with 35,000 fewer people now working for such institutions, the ministry said.

The ministrys reports came just over a month after Chinese regulators required after-school institutions that teach core curriculum subjects to register as nonprofit entities by the end of this year. Since July, the country has made several changes to its education system, including the bans on for-profit tutoring and weekend and holiday tutoring, as well as the cancellation of written exams for all first and second graders.

In order to help after-school tutoring intuitions make the year-end deadline, Beijing has established a system under which multiple government departments are working together to help them complete the registration process, the report said. Amid the education system overhaul, the city has provided jobs to more than 220,000 former employees of the affected institutions.

In addition, Beijing has rolled out norms to clarify the standards for running a tutoring institution, the report said.

The city has also selected 200 schools to pilot a new double teacher model that allows students to attend classes both online and in person, with schools in the outer suburbs adopting the model for at least 20% of their class hours.

Local authorities are considering offering childcare services during summer vacations in a bid to take pressure off parents, the report said.

The education authority also noted that other cities have made progress testing out the double reduction policy, including Shenyang, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Zhengzhou, Changzhi, Weihai and Nantong.

The central Chinese city of Zhengzhou has shut down 2,612 after-school tutoring institutions (link in Chinese) this year, accounting for roughly half of the total, according to another one of the ministrys reports.

Contact reporter Wang Xintong (xintongwang@caixin.com) and editor Michael Bellart (michaelbellart@caixin.com)

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Painter Zhang Ben opened his new exhibition on Nov. 6 at Shanghai's M50 Art Zone. Zhang, born in Huangshan, East Chinas Anhui province, in 1984, is now working at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts. Known for his Symbolist oil paintings, Zhang presents a surrealistic space that reflects his inner self, including religious elements. Xiangwai Artha, an art-sharing platform, contributed to todays gallery

Nov 19, 2021 06:03 PM
The Facebook Papers project represents a unique collaboration among 17 American news organizations, including The Associated Press. Journalists from a variety of newsrooms, large and small, worked together to gain access to thousands of pages of internal company documents obtained by Frances
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Gov. Gavin Newsom announced an ambitious proposal Thursday that would ban new oil and gas wells within 3,200 feet of homes, schools and healthcare facilities. The policy would also require new pollution monitoring at existing wells.

The rules would would go into effect in 2023 at the earliest. They would impact over 2 million residents and thousands of wells in Los Angeles and Kern counties.

A UC Berkeley study found links between oil and gas wells and adverse health effects for pregnant women and their babies. More than 5.4 million Californians live within one mile of an oil or gas well, according to a 2014 report by the Natural Resources Defense Council.

We dont see oil in our future, Newsom said Thursday.

The proposal comes at a challenging time for Californias oil industry, which is facing increased scrutiny in the aftermath of the recent oil spill off the coast of Huntington Beach. Last week, the Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach city councils voted for resolutions supporting a permanent ban on offshore drilling.

Read more at CalMatters and the Los Angeles Times.
Relay for Life of the Crystal Coast event returns to raise hope, money for cancer research
Tuesday is the final day to request to vote by mail in the 2021 Carteret County municipal elections. (Metro photo)
U.S. Rep. Greg Murphy, R-N.C., lays a rose at the base of the Beirut Barracks Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va., Friday in honor of the 38th anniversary of the Beirut bombing. (Contributed photo)
Melrose (Atkinson-Sanbornville, NH) - Atkinson-Sanbornville: With deep sadness we announce that Lewis Charles Stevens "Chucky" passed away on Thursday, October 21, in the comfort of his son's home. He fought a hard battle with cancer and heart disease and was blessed to be surrounded by love
Carroll, IA (51401)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High near 50F. WNW winds shifting to NNE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 29F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph.
Below, the pair tell us how they designed five characters from Maya and the Three, focusing on the dazzling costumes  one of the shows most eye-catching elements. Their comments are accompanied by development artwork.

Maya in Coronation Dress

Jorge Gutierrez: For this crazy dress we looked at Mexicos national costumes over the years for the Miss Universe pageant, which are sometimes ridiculously over the top. Mexico has won three times! The headdress was inspired by Montezumas headdress, who was the Aztec emperor at the time of the Spanish conquest. This is not an outfit that reflects Mayas character at all so we pushed that idea.

Sandra Equihua: This scene is Mayas coronation as well as a tip of the hat to traditional quinceaneras, which are representative of a transition in a young girls life from childhood to adulthood. Where dresses used to only be white for quinceaneras, nowadays they go to extremes to be unique and extravagant in color or design. But as a common rule, theyre usually humongous. We wanted to take this idea and go crazy with it!

King Teca

Gutierrez: I wanted this bad hombre to look like a crazy Aztec tank! I was very inspired by the traditional Aztec Eagle Warrior sculptures I saw at the Templo Mayor and Museo Nacional de Antropologia in my hometown of Mexico City. And the epic Eagle Warrior paintings of Jorge Gonzalez Camarena, especially El abrazo and La fusion de dos culturas. I was also inspired by a design I saw on the side of a taco truck after a night of tequilas in Tijuana!

Gutierrez: [When drawing inspiration from traditional Mesoamerican designs,] we were always super respectful and did a ton of research. We also studied modern reinterpretations in Mexican tattoos, urban murals, and popular culture in Mexico. Since were both Mexican (and mestizos, meaning mixed blood) we really allowed ourselves to be magical, whimsical, and experimental. I believe artists will always help culture evolve and this is our personal fantasy reinterpretation of these worlds.

Barbarian Princess

Equihua: We decided to use warm colors and patterns paying homage to various textiles and symbols found in ancient Incan culture. The symbolism of the pumas is very specific to our magical world. Her father, the Barbarian King (designed by Jorge), is a towering hulking mass, so I thought using a slender design for the Barbarian Princess would be ideal to make him look even more intimidating (which is kind of funny, because hes very childlike in many aspects, but will still chop your head off if angry!).

Gutierrez: [As the designs transition to 3d models, the costumes are tweaked] much less than you think! I love to design characters and dont have a director or producer above telling me to simplify! Sandras beautifully graphic character designs tend to be more streamlined and my biggest note is always, I want more crazy please! Money and time are the real limitation: we had to minimize the amount of arms, hair, and cloth to stay on budget. Before I started at Netflix, I hired Esteban Pedrozo (in Paraguay) to do ZBrush versions of the characters of Maya and the Three (Rico, Chimi, and Picchu) to sell what they would look like to everyone. And the final production versions done by the brilliant team at Tangent Animation were extremely close to that.

Chimi

Gutierrez: Since the Three are inspired by the Scarecrow, the Tinman, and the Lion from The Wizard of Oz, Chimi is sort of the Tinwoman. This kingdom worships Lady Micte, a fantasy goddess of death, and Chimi is her biggest fan. Chimi was born with Albinism (and was outcast for this) so she paints herself differently than everyone else. Equihua: Chimis design was conceived to create a contrast with Mayas stature. While Maya is petite and curvy (like her club), Chimi is long and svelte (like her arrows). There is an elegance to her persona while Mayas design creates a juxtaposition to Chimi with her stout legs and the way she moves.

Lord Mictlan

Gutierrez: I figured I would only get one chance in my life to design my own fantasy version of a Mesoamerican god of war, so I wanted to go all out and be a bit metal. The two skull heads represent the idea that war is about two endlessly opposing forces.
A Vancouver man is being recognized for photographs he captured during an intimate moment with a Canadian polar bear and her cubs.

Martin Gregus started taking pictures when he was just eight years old; at the time, his family had moved from Slovakia to Vancouver.

Now, the 25-year-old has won the prestigious Rising Star Portfolio Award at the Natural History Museums 2021 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. The museum is located in London, England and has been recognizing the world's best nature photography since 1965.

"Its pretty amazing, a little bit overwhelming as you can imagine, but it is kind of a thrill. I am just trying to live in the moment, he says.

The winning snaps are rare, something most people will never get the opportunity to experience.

"It was tremendously difficult getting these pictures, he says. "They were taken in an area that only a handful of people have ever visited, and I do mean a handful. Tourists dont really go there. Few photographers have gone there in the past.

Gregus and a team of people he considers close friends travelled to Churchill, Man. to photograph the polar bears in the summer.

"It is quite unique, getting there. In general, was a logistical not nightmare, but crazy getting there and living out in the elements.

Over 14 days, they lived among the polar bears in Hudson Bay.

"You live with the polar bears for so long you just grow closer and closer to them, he says.

Gregus goal was to capture the polar bears during a time when many people dont see them. Instead of glacier backgrounds and snow, he photographed them with green grass and blue skies.

"Thats really the behind-the-scene story to these pictures, to see what these bears really do in the summertime... I think that comes across in those pictures, he says. "We are so used to seeing bears on ice and on the snow, but the bears we see in the summer arent the best looking."

His favourite photograph from the portfolio is one that shows the mother polar bear and her cub napping.

"I love that one. The cub actually only has three legs. It was one of those unique behaviours that we saw on the expedition we werent really expecting, Gregus says.

Other photographs show the mother polar bear napping with her cubs and a polar bear swimming among beluga whales.

"I wanted to get a camera in the water and document that other side of them where they are swimming. Polar bears are actually also known as sea bears because they do tend to be more at home in the water.

Using remote controls to operate his cameras and drones, Gregus was able to get close and minimize the group's presence.

"I want people to look at these pictures and see really intimate connections with these bears, he says. "I find as people, it is easier for us to care for something that we have a relationship with.
Photo: The Canadian Press People walk by a branch of a Pret A Manger, in London, Tuesday, May 29, 2018. A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund says it has reached an agreement in principal with the U.K.-based Pret A Manger chain for the master franchisor rights to Canada. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP-Matt Dunham

A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund says it has reached an agreement in principle with the U.K.-based Pret A Manger chain to bring the sandwich and coffee chain to Canada.

During the two-year trial phase, A&W's food services operation plans to add Pret items to its restaurants in select markets in Canada.

If the pilot is successful, A&W would receive the exclusive franchise rights to expand the Pret brand across the country.

Details of the exclusive rights remain subject to negotiation and A&W board approval.

The A&W fund receives royalties equal to three per cent of gross sales at 994 A&W restaurants in the royalty pool. The royalty would also apply to Pret products sold in restaurants.

Pret A Manger, which opened in London, offers sandwiches, salads and wraps, along with organic coffee. There are more than 450 shops in the U.K., U.S. and several other countries.
Photo: IHIT Lionel Lawrence, a 23-year-old New West resident, has been identified as the victim of a fatal stabbing in the Brow of the Hill on Saturday night.

A 23-year-old man with links to the Lower Mainlands ongoing gang conflict is the victim of New Westminsters latest homicide.

The Integrated Homicide Investigation Team has identified New West resident Lionel Lawrence as the victim of the fatal stabbing that occurred about 9:20 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22. IHIT is calling on individuals with information about the case to come forward.

We know there were other witnesses in the area, says Sgt. David Lee of IHIT. Their information is important, and we encourage them to come forward and do the right thing.

Members of the New Westminster Police Department were called to an alternation on Bole Street, between 10th Street and Maple Street, in the Brow of the Hill neighbourhood on Saturday night. There they found a man suffering from significant injuries from a stabbing.

The victim was transported to Royal Columbian Hospital, but he did not survive.

Lionel Lawrence is known to police and is linked to the ongoing Lower Mainland gang conflict, said an IHIT press release.

The New Westminster Police Department responded to the initial call, but when the victim died, IHIT took over the investigation.

IHIT is continuing to investigate with the assistance of the NWPD and the BC Coroners Service. Investigators are still completing witness interviews, and canvassing is continuing.

According to IHIT, any information related to the suspects and the suspect vehicle is crucial to advancing this investigation.

At this time, homicide investigators believe that there are two suspects involved. Both suspects left the scene in a dark-coloured vehicle travelling south on 10th Street. IHIT believes that there may be a key individual that was present at the scene who may hold valuable information.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the IHIT information line at 1-877-551-IHIT (4448), or by email at [email protected]
Photo: The Canadian Press Meng Wanzhou, front left, chief financial officer of Huawei, leaves B.C. Supreme Court during a break from her extradition hearing, in Vancouver, B.C., Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021. A British Columbia Supreme Court judge has ordered the return of items seized from Meng Wanzhou during the Huawei executive's arrest at Vancouver's airport over the extradition request from United States. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

A British Columbia Supreme Court judge has ordered the return of items seized from Meng Wanzhou during the Huawei executive's arrest at Vancouver's airport over an extradition request from the United States.

An order dated Oct. 21 and signed by Associate Chief Justice Heather Holmes says items taken by the RCMP during her Dec. 1, 2018, arrest must be returned.

The court document released to media lists a MacBook laptop, an iPad, a USB stick, an iPhone, a Huawei phone, SIM cards and a Chinese passport.

The order also directs the RCMP to destroy a handwritten note containing the passcodes to Meng's phones as well as photos of the note and of her device's serial numbers.

U.S. authorities accused Meng of lying to HSBC about Huawei's control of a subsidiary, putting the bank at risk of violating American sanctions against Iran.

Meng pleaded not guilty in a U.S. court in September after reaching a deferred prosecution agreement, the extradition request was dropped and she returned to China immediately.

The court heard during the extradition hearing in Vancouver that the passcodes to Meng's phones were improperly shared with the RCMP by an agent with the Canada Border Services Agency, forming part of an argument by Meng's lawyers that she was subjected to an abuse of process and the extradition request should be thrown out.

Lawyers for Canada's attorney general disagreed, arguing there had been no misconduct in the extradition case that would have justified a stay of proceedings.

Holmes had reserved her decision over Meng's extradition in August, around a month before Meng struck the deal that would allow for the charges against her to be dismissed after Dec. 1, 2022, provided she complies with certain obligations.

Two Canadians detained in China shortly after Meng was arrested, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, returned to Canada just as she was heading back to China.
Photo: The Canadian Press

Justin Trudeau is giving his cabinet a major overhaul as he gears up to rapidly deliver on his top priorities for his Liberal minority government during his third term as prime minister.

The cabinet sworn in Tuesday is also a slightly larger lineup that adds nine new faces, drops three and moves most other senior ministers to new posts.

In one of the biggest moves, Harjit Sajjan, heavily criticized for his handling of sexual misconduct allegations in Canada's military, is leaving the defence portfolio to take up a new post in international development.

Anita Anand, who led the charge to procure vaccines during the pandemic as public services and procurement minister, will take over at National Defence, only the second woman to head that post.

Steven Guilbeault, a prominent environmentalist in Quebec before jumping into politics in 2019, is leaving Canadian Heritage to take over the environment portfolio from Jonathan Wilkinson, who is moving to natural resources.

Jean-Yves Duclos moves from head of the Treasury Board to the health portfolio.

Three ministers have been dropped from cabinet altogether: Marc Garneau, who has been replaced as foreign affairs minister by Melanie Joly; Bardish Chagger, who had been diversity and inclusion minister, and Jim Carr, who had been serving as Trudeau's special representative for the Prairies after being diagnosed with cancer.

Among the new faces at the cabinet table are former broadcaster and Toronto MP Marci Ien, who becomes gender equality minister; Nova Scotia MP Sean Fraser, who takes on the immigration post; Edmonton MP Randy Boissonnault, who joins as tourism and associate finance minister, and newly elected Quebec MP and former union leader Pascale St-Onge, who becomes minister for sport and Quebec economic development.

Mark Holland, who had served as Liberal whip, will join cabinet as the new government House leader. With the Liberals holding only a minority of seats in the House of Commons, Holland's job will be crucial, ensuring the government has at least one opposition party to support its legislation and to avoid defeat on confidence votes.

The previous House leader, Pablo Rodriguez, who steered the agenda through the Liberals' last minority government, will head up Canadian Heritage, a post he previously held during Trudeau's first mandate.

Only 10 ministers in Trudeau's last cabinet are staying put, including Justice Minister David Lametti, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough and Innovation Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne.

Trudeau had announced earlier that Chrystia Freeland would remain in her dual roles as deputy prime minister and finance minister.

The new roster adds up to 39 ministers, including Trudeau  two more than his last cabinet. It maintains Trudeau's commitment to appoint an equal number of men and women to cabinet.

Trudeau has created a number of new ministries, including carving out housing as a separate portfolio, to be headed by former social development minister Ahmed Hussen.

He's created a new rural economic development post, to be headed by Newfoundland and Labrador MP Gudie Hutchings, who was promoted from the Liberal backbench.

Emergency preparedness has been carved out as a separate ministry, to be headed by Bill Blair, who also becomes president of the Queen's Privy Council. Marco Mendicino leaves Immigration to take over Blair's previous role at Public Safety.

Trudeau has also created a separate ministry of mental health and addictions, to be headed by Carolyn Bennett.

Marc Miller is taking up Bennett's former post at Crown-Indigenous Relations, while former health minister Patty Hajdu takes over from Miller at Indigenous Services.

Sources said the ministerial lineup is intended to signal the government's sense of urgency to deliver on a half dozen priority commitments: accelerated climate action, affordable housing, finishing the fight against COVID-19, rebuilding a greener, more equitable economy, long-term investments in health care and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

Senior government sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly, said Trudeau wants to act quickly on those priorities, in the same way the Liberals were able to mobilize the notoriously slow machinery of government to rush billions worth of emergency aid programs out the door during the pandemic.
Photo: Contributed

Chiefs of the Carrier and Sekani First Nations are declaring a state of emergency with respect to the ongoing opioid crisis and coronavirus pandemic.

Along with Carrier Sekani Family Services, 11 Nation Chiefs call on the Canadian and provincial governments to take immediate action which should include a comprehensive commitment to combat the opioid crisis that continues to claim lives.

Indigenous people in B.C.s Northern Interior region are experiencing over representation in overdose deaths and CSFS is seeking both federal and provincial funds to construct and operate a Healing/Treatment Centre.

A toxic drug supply, combined with the harms of historical and present-day colonialism, has led to Indigenous people dying from toxic drugs at a much higher rate compared to other B.C. residents.

Intergenerational impacts of residential school continue to be present. Mental health issues and addiction continue to impact the families we serve at a high rate.

Carrier Sekani Family Services is poised and ready to increase capacity and services for the Addictions and Recovery program with our planned Healing/Treatment Centre, and we have a strong track record of successfully designing and delivering services to the communities we serve, Chief Corrina Leween, CSFS board president, said. What we require now is a financial commitment from the federal and provincial governments that claim to prioritize Indigenous needs. To highlight this I can share with you that in the past two weeks, communities we serve lost three more lives to this crisis. Three more people who were loved and were deserving of help.

Leween said the crisis is also affecting Indigenous children in care, particularly those in the care of the MCFD, and that some of these children are also suffering from addictions and opioid-related deaths.

We need this treatment centre as a part of the wrap-around care we endeavour to provide to the clients and families we serve, Leween added.
Photo: The Canadian Press

U.S. officials aren't ruling out the possibility that fully vaccinated foreign visitors will need a recent negative COVID-19 test in order to cross the land border with Canada.

The latest rules for foreign air travellers, updated Monday by the White House, say fully vaccinated passengers will need to show proof of a negative test taken within three days before boarding.

The new international travel rules, which also require that foreign nationals be fully vaccinated, are scheduled to take effect Nov. 8.

Dr. Cindy Friedman, chief of the travellers' health branch of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, says clarity on the rules for land-border visitors is coming soon.

Friedman says Customs and Border Protection is expected to announce in the next few days whether travellers crossing the land borders will need to show proof of a negative test.

Biden administration officials say the land-border rules will likely hew closely to the same CDC guidance that produced the requirements for air travellers.
Photo: The Canadian Press Michael Pickup listens to a question as he addresses a news conference regarding his report as Nova Scotia's auditor on June 8, 2016. Pickup, who is now B.C.'s auditor general, says he has a $6-billion difference of opinion with the government on calculating the province's financial bottom line. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Andrew Vaughan

British Columbia's auditor general says he has a $6-billion difference of opinion with the government on calculating the province's financial bottom line.

Michael Pickup says an audit of B.C.'s final budget accounting for the 2020-21 fiscal year under-reports revenues by $6 billion, which does not give a clear representation of the province's financial position.

Finance Minister Selina Robinson said in July that B.C.'s public accounts showed a $5.5-billion budget deficit for the fiscal year, almost $3 billion lower than originally forecast.

Pickup's audit says the difference of opinion with the government over the way it reports money it receives from other levels of governments for projects likes roads and bridges has now entered its 10th year.

B.C.'s comptroller general Carl Fischer says in a response statement included in the auditor's report, the government prepares its financial statements under the province's Budget Transparency and Accountability Act.

Pickup says the audit also raises concerns about the risk of fraud in several government COVID-19 relief initiatives.
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USG players see optimistic time ahead

ICR Newsroom By 26 October 2021

By Maria Vasyutenko, associate of Brannvoll ApS

The USG Supramax/Ultramax spot freight market started the month on a weak mode. The North Atlantic was experiencing side effects from the passing of hurricanes, which caused the temporary closure of several terminals in the Mississippi River as well as disruptions in other links of the logistics chain.

Rates for shipments from the USG ports were falling as most charterers preferred to wait until the situation normalised in the Gulf following the hurricane. But in the second half of the month, cargo operations in the Mississippi River started slowly catching up and the USG freight market began to show improved rates.

After ups and downs observed throughout the month, freight rates settled on the last reported levels on transatlantic routes.

Freight rates for transportation of a Supramax-lot of petcoke from Houston to ARA ports with spot laycans are at US$34/t (unchanged MoM) on average.

Deals for delivery of 50,000t of petcoke from Houston to Iskenderun with spot laycans are discussed at around US$41/t on average (unchanged MoM).

The freight rates on fronthaul directions (trips to southeast Asia and China) did not increase quite as much as some expected amid a delayed start of the US grain season. Shipping costs for delivery of a Supramax-lot of petcoke from USG to EC India are at US$68/t on average (+US$6/t MoM).

For the rest of the year, USG players are optimistic. USG cargo flow is returning to normal and while not as fast as expected, it is still growing day by day. More grain cargoes are being shipped from USG ports and November is looking very promising. It should be noted that in spite of USG terminals taking steps to address the post-hurricane backlog, many vessels are still sitting in longer-than-usual line-ups. This resumption of activity together with increased delays will lead to a quick heating up of rates.

Published under
China Shanshui Cement records 15% rise in revenue

26 October 2021

China Shanshui Cement has recorded a 23.6 per cent YoY decline in attributable profit to CNY1.78bn (US$278.83m) in the first nine months of the year, compared to CNY2.33bn in the year-ago period.

However, revenue advanced 14.8 per cent to CNY17.57bn from CNY15.31bn in the 9M20.

Published under
Cleveland State Community College is inviting the community to the campus to enjoy the spooky holiday spirit of the colleges second Halloween on Wheels. This Saturday the community can enjoy a drive thru experience where families can bring their kids and trick or treat in a safe environment while seeing the campus and learning about CSCCs academic programs.



We had a blast with this event last year and are so excited to offer it again this year, stated Cate Green, director of Admissions, Recruitment, and High School Programs at CSCC. Cleveland State is honored to be your community college and looks forward to seeing you for Halloween on Wheels 2021.



Each vehicle will receive a folder with a scavenger hunt sheet they can solve while driving through the event. At the end of the drive, they can turn in their sheet for prize drawings. Each car will also get a goodie bag full of information about the many programs the college provides.



All candy provided is sponsored by MARS Wrigley. Costumes are encouraged for anyone in the Halloween spirit. Guests can also stop at the end of the scavenger hunt and exit their vehicles to take pictures with the M&M and Freddy Cougar.
Prosecuting violent criminals and standing with law enforcement will be two of Coty Wamps main points of focus should she win the 2022 district attorney race against incumbent DA Neal Pinkston. On a rainy Monday afternoon, she told the Pachyderm Club audience populated by elected officials, law enforcement and attorneys, about her plans for the DAs office. She said creating a gang and violent crime unit would be a top priority.

I dont think they can go out there and look like police officers with swat vests and guns on them, Ms. Wamp said. I think they have to go out in the community and get to know people and start to know names and be able to stop cars and know who is in it and have a conversation with them. Its about knowing the inner city before we police the inner city.



She said, Our current district attorneys office is very diverse, and our gang and violent crime unit would be a majority of African-American investigators, because thats what our inner city needs.

Ms. Wamp, who is the sister of county mayor candidate Weston Wamp and daughter of former Congressman Zach Wamp, asked for voters to judge her based on her own merit, rather than by her familial connections. Coty Wamp has served as a public defender and prosecutor.

She stated of her brother, His race is very different than mine, and weve taken different paths. I hope the county feels comfortable voting for Weston and not me, or me and not Weston. Im just going to ask for us to be based on our platform and what weve done, and not based on our last name.

Ms. Wamp, who currently is special counsel to Hamilton County Sheriff Jim Hammond, said she would support law enforcement, and wanted officers to know she was on their side. Sheriff Hammond and Chief Deputy Austin Garrett were in attendance.

I am on the side of law enforcement and will continue to be on the side of law enforcement, Ms. Wamp said. Im in no way an advocate for police officers who go out and commit crimes. But being a police officer requires hand on hand contact with people. The job naturally requires a more hands-on approach, and its adversarial. I want our officers to know that you need to treat people with respect, but I have your back no matter what.



Ms. Wamp also said she supports treating juveniles facing violent charges more harshly than the current district attorney. She said harsher sentences would be a deterrent for children who may consider committing crimes.

My office would be called to look at these violent cases and send more of them to criminal court to be tried as adults. The key word is deterrence. How are we going to deter a 16-year-old from shooting another 16-year-old? We have to let them know their punishment is not going to be a slap on the wrist, but that they could see the same punishment as someone who is 25 years old.

Id like to be the leader of the entire cause, so when I bring the mayor or someone from the school board to the table, I want them to know the problems the DA is encountering or what problems juvenile court is encountering. I mentioned the school system because I think we could create programs like the old D.A.R.E program where we could affect children in our schools.



Ms. Wamp said bringing in more prosecutors would also be a top priority for her office. She said there would be dedicated prosecutors for domestic violence and child sexual abuse cases, and that there are people within the current DAs office who would be interested in serving as a more specialized prosecutor.

She did say that she would re-arrange the DAs office, and get rid of programs such as the existing social services program. She said there are other agencies who provide similar services, and that the DAs office should be focused on only prosecuting cases. Ms. Wamp also said there are other agencies who can look into cold cases, and that she would be doing away with the cold case unit.



Thats just not the role of the district attorneys office, Ms. Wamp said. Im extremely proud of, and meet with all of the agencies in town who do that exact same thing. One of the people who does that is Sheriff Hammond. There are re-entry programs in the jail that seek to have people who never come back there.



Ms. Wamp said her office would pour most of its resources into prosecuting violent crime, and so smaller misdemeanors and what she called victimless crimes would not receive the same level of scrutiny. She said the district attorneys office would also seek alternative sentences in an attempt to have fewer inmates at Silverdale jail.

If theres a victim in a case, Im putting that in the serious cases we cant afford to negotiate on, Ms. Wamp said. But theres a whole other section of offenses, like public intoxication or low-level drug offenses. The crimes that dont have victims, we will give less attention to while we give more attention to our violent crimes.



She said some of her plans could be implemented within a year of her becoming district attorney.



We could see a gang and violent crime unit by the end of next year. I do have an eight-year term, because it gives you time to start programs and have priorities you can see through. Some of these changes can be quick if someone commits to them.


Chattanooga Airport president Terry Hart said Monday that the airport - after the long COVID slowdown - is enjoying some passenger growth "albeit it is very slow."



He said the airport traffic was boosted in the past month by two casino charters.

Mr. Hart said there have been almost 270,000 enplanements year to date and should finish at around 375,000.

He told members of the Airport Board, "We are up 21 percent over January 2020."

The board was told of numerous airport improvements that are in the works, including adding gates seven and eight.

Tail Wind, the food supplier at the airport, will add a new restaurant with different options.

Construction is to start next April.

Jack McAfee, who was recently named airport operations director, said plans will be drawn up for several projects.

He said the spot formerly used by rental car companies will become an employee parking lot. He said it is closer to the terminal than the current space. He said taxis, Ubers and other commercial vehicles can use that space also and it will clear them from having to drive in front of the terminal.

CTR Construction had the low bid of $19,382 on the project, which will include access off Rosedale Drive.

The airport will spend $178,634 on a project to refurbish 24 hangars that have leaks and difficult to open doors among other issues.

There will be a new connector near West Side to avoid congestion. and a new T Hanger area on the south part of the airport.

Airport officials said employees contributed $19,180 to the American Heart Association.
Sikich announced the acquisition of PA Group USA, an enterprise software and cloud services firm based in Chattanooga that implements and optimizes enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management and manufacturing execution systems.

As we continue to support manufacturers in their digital transformation journeys, PA Group USA will help us strengthen our capabilities in this key industry, said Jim Drumm, head of Sikichs technology team. The addition of PA Group USA is another important step in our ongoing growth efforts, which, in the end, enhance our ability to address clients evolving business needs.

A Microsoft Dynamics Gold Certified Partner and Cloud Solutions Provider, PA Group USA offers ERP, CRM and MES consulting, alongside business intelligence, marketing automation and cloud and IT infrastructure services.

Were excited to join forces with a major industry player like Sikich, said Bradley Hanon, CEO of PA Group USA, who will join Sikich as a partner. Our team and our clients will benefit from access to Sikichs deep bench of experts and wide range of digital transformation capabilities.

Sikichs national technology consultancy helps companies across industries  including life sciences, finance, manufacturing, distribution, and professional services  improve productivity and performance with innovative digital strategies and technology solutions. Sikich is a leader in digital transformation, which includes cloud and emerging technologies, and has one of the deepest, most diverse solution portfolios in the middle market. Sikichs solutions include business applications and workplace productivity, security and compliance, artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain and robotic process automation.

Approximately 20 employees from PA Group USA will join Sikich and continue to work from their office in Chattanooga. The transaction is scheduled to close on Sunday.




A man, 38, was shot late Sunday night on East 16th Street.

At approximately 11:41 p.m., Chattanooga Police responded to 71 East 16th Street on a report of shots fired.

Upon arrival, officers were notified that a victim with a non-life threatening gunshot wound arrived at a local hospital via personal vehicle. Investigators with the Violent Crimes Unit responded to conduct an investigation and collect potential evidence from the scene.

It was stated to investigators that the shooter exited a vehicle, fired multiple shots, then fled in the vehicle.

There are no suspect details to release at this time.
Ive seen some stuff in my time. I have followed politics for many years. Im retired, Im a realist and a Vietnam veteran, pretty much in that order. Im not an alarmist or a conspiracy theorist. That said, I have never in my life been so concerned about the future of this Republic.

Politics was once a legitimate contest of ideas, put forth by political figures who were sincere, accomplished, articulate and well versed in economics and history. The candidacy and ultimate victory of Joe Biden was  and continues to benothing more than a marketing campaign and a very poor one at that.

What does it say about us that we see a candidate and, ultimately, a President that is clearly infirm and not up to the challenges of the highest office of the land. Yet, we defer, pretend and excuse it all away? We see the disastrous outcomes of everything he touches, his inability to think and communicate on his feet, the economic and social fallout that he has wrought in just 10 months, the unbelievable move toward Socialism that he appears to be leading.

Whistling past the graveyard, pretending that its just business as usual and that everything is under control is not a solution. Its a symptom. Were in trouble. Join me in praying for the future of this great Republic.

W. Dale Martin

* * *

Mr. Martin, you are correct. We have The Great Pretender in the Oval Office. In fact the progressives had make-believe primaries, a make believe-convention and nominated a make believe candidate who some say was elected in a make-believe election.

That make-believe candidate stayed in his basement and the few times he ventured up to the sunlight was for brief appearances before hand-picked ensembles resembling a cult waiting for the mother-ship. So what should we have expected?

It was all rather surreal, just like the last 18 months. Take Hunter Bidens paintings for example. One sold recently for $500,000 at a trendy NYC gallery. Another painting by the French Impressionist Degas sold at auction at Christies for the same amount. Would you say that is surreal? The New York Times coincidentally described Hunters doodles in oil as surreal.

It is certainly not make-believe to see empty shelves and shortages, rising gasoline prices, thousands of help wanted signs, pictures of thousands of unvaccinated migrants crossing the border with more caravans following. Its not fantasy to hear of Bidens plans for the IRS to monitor Americans bank accounts or for the AG to investigate parents who speak out at school board meetings.

Hunters art may be priceless as long as his dad is in the Oval Office, but unlike art which often appreciates with time, the damage the Great Pretender is doing isnt make-believe. Left unchanged, it wont get better with time.

Ralph Miller
An anonymous caller told police there was a male wearing a hat and a female with a pink shirt arguing on Chestnut Street. The anonymous caller was requesting police response as they were afraid the argument would become physical. Upon arrival the officer spoke with and identified the two individuals. The woman said she was in an argument with her husband regarding a weight loss surgery. She said at no time did this argument become physical. The officer spoke with the husband who was visibly intoxicated and said the same thing as the wife, at no time did the altercation become physical. The officer saw no signs of anything physical taking place between the couple.

* * *

A woman on Boynton Drive told police that her nephew has been staying in her apartment, but she would like for him to leave. The nephew gathered his things and left the residence.

* * *

While on a call in the 2000 block of Rawlings Street, police observed, through a window, a small baggie of marijuana in the driver's side door of a vehicle. Fire Engine 4 responded to the scene and opened the driver door, causing no visible damage to the vehicle. The marijuana was weighed and was found to be .8 grams. The marijuana was taken to Property.

* * *

By order of chain of command in effort to assist the Beer Board, officers conducted a walk-through of the establishment, Sky Zoo. Officers observed multiple open beer containers (bottle and can) and clear plastic cups containing an unknown liquid ranging in color from clear to brown. Multiple patrons were observed drinking. However, no sale of alcohol was observed during their time inside the establishment. Approximately 30+ patrons were inside the building.

* * *

Police found a black Samsung cell phone in the back lot of the service center, 3410 Amnicola Hwy., near the fence/dumpster and turned it into Property.

* * *

An employee of Pepsi Bottling told police that a person crawled under the fence next to the River Walk. He said the fence was propped up with a rock next to a fence post in order to gain access. He said the truck was visible from the River Walk. He said the person rummaged through a Pepsi Bottling owned 2017 Ford F350. He said the person stole a lot of tools in a gray 3 ft. by 1 ft. toolbox from the service bed compartments of the truck.

* * *

A man on Carter Drive told police that on Sunday at about 9:30 a.m. he sold his 1977 Chevrolet C10 and left the antique TN tag on it. He said the tag and title office told him that he has to have a police report to cancel the tag.

* * *

Police responded to a vandalism at Tokyo restaurant, 1120 Houston St. The owner told police that someone broke the arm off a cast iron chair overnight. Police asked if he had any surveillance cameras and he said he did not. Police asked him how much the chair would cost to replace, and he said he didn't know - maybe $100. He also told police that someone damaged his Lexus SUV about two weeks ago while it was parked there. Police asked him how much it would cost to fix and he estimated $1,000. Police asked if there was any surveillance cameras that may have recorded that incident, and he said "no."

* * *

A man at Volkswagen Group of America, 8001 Volkswagen Dr., told police that around 10 a.m. he received a call from someone claiming to be with the Social Security Administration. He said that he realized it was a scam, as he is from Europe and does not have a social security number. He

says he is here on a visa. He just wanted a report of the incident.

* * *

Police spoke to a CARTA employee who said that a white female on the CARTA bus would not put a mask on and when told to, she became irate. When police approached her, she got off of the bus without being told to do so, and was informed that she would not be able to be back on any CARTA buses for the remainder of the day.
Federal Courts often encounter disputes where the stakes are high, litigants hold strongly opposed opinions, and emotions run hot. Add to this a variety of sometimes conflicting personalities, and you might expect unsolvable disputes. But even in the face of these factors, courts routinely resolve disputes both big and small. A key to successfully resolving these disputes is the courts insistence on civil discourse.



By civil discourse, we mean that people with different opinions can engage in discussions that are frank, respectful, reasoned, and meaningful. This requires refraining from insults, name calling, yelling, and personal criticism. It requires staying on topic and using language designed to persuade, not just to offend. And, put simply, it requires listening to the other person.



Through the rules of courts, the authority of presiding judges, and shared traditions, attorneys in court proceedings practice civil discourse. Attorneys and their clients usually feel very strongly about their positions and believe they are right and the other side is wrong. But regardless of their strong opinions, attorneys understand that the other side has the right to argue their side of the dispute, and that there is wisdom in listening closely to the other side. They understand that the language they use must be tempered so that high emotions are kept under control. They understand that they must treat the other side with respect. They understand that their own arguments must be based on reason and logic, not invective and personal attacks.



Society could benefit from adopting the practice of civil discourse. Too many of our public debates focus on disparaging the other side rather than persuading them. We sometimes mistake raised voices for persuasion, praising those who engage in the most inflammatory verbal tirades. We may live in intellectual boxes and listen only to those in the same box. We may give no respect to those outside our box. Rather than listen to understand them, we listen only to respond. We dismiss their arguments because of the boxes in which we think they reside. We retreat further into our own boxes, talking and listening only to those with whom we agree. In doing so, we miss opportunities to learn, to reason, to grow, and even to persuade.



Democracy is not about us all getting everything we want. Rather, it has to mean that important disputes can be discussed openly by an informed citizenry who air all sides of a dispute. This allows us to hear ideas and perspectives we might not have considered before, and it allows us to know that our ideas are being heard, too. We understand and appreciate that others are acting in good faith and are not our enemies. At the end of the debate, we may not all agree, but we are all able to make a better-informed decision. Society is best served when this happens. A lack of civil discourse deters citizens from engaging in public debates and decreases our access to the information we need to make the best decisions. It thus hampers democracy, democratic decision making, and optimal outcomes.



Society would be well served by greater use of this tool, civil discourse, that is practiced every day in our courts.



Curtis L. Collier

United States District Judge

Chair, Eastern District of Tennessee Civics and Outreach Committee

Carrie Brown Stefaniak

Law Clerk to the Honorable Curtis L. Collier

Immediate Past President, Chattanooga Chapter of the Federal Bar Association



Kristen A. Dupard

Law Clerk to the Honorable Curtis L. Collier
Taiwan is helping lead the way towards creating an environmentally friendly and sustainable future for all mankind. Taiwan is one of the worldwide leaders in manufacturing and produces many of the superconductors and chips used in products we use everyday. Even with a focus on the traditionally high-polluting industry of manufacturing, Taiwan has solutions to help reduce its global carbon footprint. Taiwan is a perfect partner to share ideas with as the world works together to combat climate change.

Taiwan has enacted solutions that serve to lower the countrys environmental impact. Taiwanese manufacturers have begun to produce electric vehicles in great quantities. Foxconn, most famously the producers of the iPhone, have recently launched electric sedans, SUVs, and buses. Gogoro has created electric bikes and motorcycles that can already compete with traditional vehicles on the market at a lower cost to the environment. The United States and Taiwan have open markets that allow for electric vehicle production partnerships between manufacturers in Taiwan and the American southeast.



Developers have also molded Taiwanese cities to be ready for the transition to carbon-neutrality. People have access to walkable neighborhoods with easy-access public transit that encompasses the entire island. Production plants are rapidly shifting away from fossil fuels like coal towards cleaner renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Formosa One is one of the worlds first full-scale offshore wind farms and is far more energy efficient than previous iterations. Taiwan has passed binding legislation that ensures that the entire island will be carbon neutral by 2050 in accordance with the Paris climate agreement and Taiwan is on the path to achieving all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals.



Taiwan strives to be an active partner in developing the ideas that will help humanity through this critical juncture. Yet despite this, Taiwan is being excluded from the critical dialogues that will shape the future of climate policy. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change does not allow Taiwan to be a member due to outside political factors. Climate change response requires courage, innovation, and cooperation. It is not justifiable to restrict Taiwans participation in the UNFCCC. Taiwan can help create the solutions for the future if you give us the opportunity to assist.



Trevor Outlaw

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office
Marcus and Georgia Garner, owners of Cambridge Squares Wine Down Bistro & Lounge, are opening a new breakfast, brunch and lunch concept called Neighbor. Cambridge Square is a mixed-use community located a quarter of a mile off Exit 11 in Ooltewah, and is home to dozens of local businesses and restaurants. The Garners were among the very first tenants when development began at Cambridge and have built a significant and loyal following over the last six years.

Wine Down expanded its space a little more than a year ago, separating the concept into a casual lounge and a Bistro. For Neighbor, they will be converting the lounge space into a full-service restaurant that will be open seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., serving breakfast, brunch and lunch only. The decision to implement the Neighbor concept is one that the Garners contemplated for more than a year. They are targeting a December opening.

We are very fortunate to have been extremely well-received in Ooltewah, Mrs. Garner said. Part of the reason for that success, aside from the many loyal customers, is Marcuss ability to adapt and change our menus based on the feedback we receive from patrons. Neighbor fills a hole that people have been talking about for a long time and we finally decided that we were well-suited to fill it. Not just from a culinary perspective, but from a true neighborhood gathering destination as well.

House made biscuits and gravy, breakfast pastries, breakfast sandwiches, build your own breakfast plates, house made sausages, country hams, fresh salads, hand-crafted sandwiches as well as some traditional staples are just some of the items that you will find on the Neighbor menu. Beyond food, you can expect a coffee bar featuring local beans, espresso, lattes, and cappuccinos as well as grab and go items for those who are in a hurry.

Definitely Southern, Mr. Garner said of the menu that is now being finalized, but with a modern twist. We want people to find their old favorites that are part of the regions culinary history, but like Wine Down, we want to introduce people to some more innovative styles and dishes.

As for the vibe and dining experience, the Garners want the feel to be casual and vibrant, much like traditional diners of old. To reinforce that vision, they have decided to decorate the space with famous neighbors from television and film.

Were going for a bit of nostalgia in the design of the space, Mrs. Garner said. And we have come to see Cambridge Square as an extended neighborhood which makes the pleasure of serving our patrons that much more rewarding. The name just fits.

When not operating as a restaurant, the Neighbor space will be available for events, with a sharp focus on the greater Ooltewah community. The Garners envision the space being ideal for business organizations, churches and just about anything else that requires a place to congregate over food and a busy agenda.






Miraculously, some independent bookstores in Southern California have survived the plague--and we don't mean COVID, which actually promoted more reading when outside recreation wasn't an easy option (though for most of the past two years it did reduce in-person shopping). Someone years ago said that Americans were aliterate: they could read if they wanted to, but even that disinterest in books and long articles declined with the habit of sustaining attention for only 280 characters, instead of the minimum hardcover of 60,000 full words.

And as many of those who still did read gravitated to e-books (which studies show don't result in the same retention as those in print), the standard royalty to authors declined from $3 to $1 and advances became rare. Offering a helpful hand to the trend, of course, was Amazon. Yet some bookstores survived (we wrote about Book Soup in West Hollywood in the first in this series and Barnes & Noble in Glendale for No. 7). Here are a few more favorites just in time for last-minute holiday gifts:

Laguna Beach Books https://www.lagunabeachbooks.com/ is a reminder of the joys of browsing in a real-world bookstore vs. searching for a book or even category you're interested in online. As we entered, there was a table displaying quirky volumes on dogs, like How to Raise a Jewish Dogs by the rabbis of the Boca Raton Theological Seminary.

While this store had all the bestsellers at discounted prices, there were lots of other examples of how it serves eager readers by introducing them to subjects they never considered: The Giant Book of Tiny Homes: Living Large in Small Spaces by John Riha (in case you need to downsize), The Geography of Risk: Epic Storms, Rising Seas and the Cost of America's Coasts by Gilbert Gaul (and there are allegedly earthquakes in SoCal as another motivation to move inland), and Man of Tomorrow: The Relentless Life of Jerry Brown by Jim Newton (no matter what you think you know about him, you'll be very surprised by many details). This store also has surprisingly strong sections on science and philosophy for a book nook.

The Iliad Bookshop https://www.iliadbooks.com/ in North Hollywood has 150,000 volumes that are impressively organized in a large store behind a beautiful facade painted with figures from Greek literature. Huffingtonpost put it on the list of "50 of the Best Indie Bookstores in America" in 2017. Though it has, indeed, plenty of foreign language tomes, the vast majority are in English, including a huge science fiction section. The variety is so vast that you could spend weeks inside without ever getting bored for a minute, browsing subjects you didn't think you had any interest in (say, Japanese anime, etiquette, insects, martial arts, or gypsies).

Aisle 22, for example, contains shelves on King Arthur, philosophy, hypnosis, the Holocaust, LGBTQ history, and alternative medicine, among others. Some unusual titles we stumbled across: Temples of Sound: Inside the Great Recording Studios by Jim Cogan and William Clark, Godzilla FAQ by Brian Solomon, The Harlot by the Side of the Road: Forbidden Stories of the Bible by Jonathan Kirsch, and The Search for the "Manchurian Candidate": The CIA and Mind Control by John Marks.

SideShow Books http://sideshowbookstore.com/ has a subtitle: Rare and Remarkable Books, Art & Curiosities. Located on La Cienega south of Pico, it's colorful entry is to a curious circus of used books that require a dedication to serious browsing. It rewards quickly, however, especially if you've run out of everything in print for a fave category or want to gift a friend with a truly obscure tome on a topic s/he loves. There are all the previous bestsellers you never read, dirt cheap, too.

The Hollywood section is especially strong, of course, with really massive photo volumes you probably would not even stumble across in the online jungle. Some examples of breadth, depth, and quirkiness: The Television Sherlock Holmes by Peter Haining, Cinema of the Fantastic by Chris Steinbrunner (production details and stills from 15 classic horror and science fiction flicks), and A French Kiss with Death: Steve McQueen and the Making of LeMans: The Man, The Race, The Cars, The Movie by Michael Keyser (which one reviewer calls "the best book ever written on racing").

And last, but not least, is The Last Bookstore https://www.lastbookstorela.com/ at 5th and Spring St. in downtown L.A., which holds 250,000 volumes over a massive two-floor complex, making it one of the largest bookshops in the real world. You can get a good sense of what it is like to visit by looking at the videos on its site and it would be dangerously naive to think you can just pop in to glance around, since the real issue is how you will tear yourself away. Alas, there is no parking except at street meters (cheapest eves and weekends), and those are often hard to find unoccupied, so consider taking the metro to Pershing Square. Alas, there is also no restroom, which is inexplicable, because plenty of other stores large and small have found ways to control access for the convenience of customers and to keep them on the premises as long as possible. Oh, and don't bother calling--they rarely answer. Search online and just go.

As we entered, the first display table included Black Panther Party: A Graphic Novel History by David Walker and Marcus Anderson. In the neighboring Arts & Rare Books Annex was an officially-stamped (not signed) book of Banksy's images, as well as a shrink-wrapped Annie Leibovitz at Work.

Nearby was a huge section of music biographies, such as I Am Brian Wilson. A collectible niche on graphic novels included Frederik Schodt's The World of Japanese Comics. There was a large area devoted to every classic book you've ever heard of and feel guilty about not having read, so an opportunity to prep before the next literary soiree or high school reunion.

The most fun was had browsing the upstairs rooms that covered every specialty subject from business to oversize military history photo books. Some that you probably wouldn't find elsewhere: Mrs. Sherlock Holmes: The True Story of New York City's Greatest Female Detective by Peter Vronsky, The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migrations by Isabel Wilkerson, Pleasure Activism: The Politics of Feeling Good edited by Adrienne Brown, and, The Ghost Ships of Archangel: The Arctic Voyage that Defied the Nazis by William Geroux.

Let's make reading books cool again.
Attorneys said Tuesday that changing both the County Commission and the School Board from nine to 11 districts may require action of the state Legislature.

County Attorney Rheubin Taylor and School Board attorney Scott Bennett said there is no problem increasing the commission districts, but the number of Hamilton County School Board members was set at nine in a 1993 private act that would need to be updated.

The County Commission, which has the authority to draw the districts for both the commission and school board, met on Tuesday afternoon to discuss the issue with the School Board and to get inpt.

The commission has indicated it may take a final vote on the 11 districts on Nov. 2 after another workshop this Wednesday.

Commission Chairwoman Sabrena Smedley said the move to 11 districts is brought on by growth in the county, which has reached 366,000 residents. She said with 11 districts, each representative would have about 33,000 residents.

She said steps were taken at the start to insure that there remain two districts with majority black population - Districts 4 and 5.

Officials said if the school board keeps nine districts those are going to need to be redrawn to reflect new growth.

Scott Allen, election administrator, said having different districts for commission and school board members could cause problems and confusion at the polls. He said redrawing the nine school board districts could leave some districts separated by the Tennessee River and other barriers.

School Board Chairman Tucker McClendon said he was leaning toward favoring nine districts. He said the board is in the middle of selecting a new school superintendent and candidates could be dismayed to find they have 11 bosses instead of nine. He said, "I have a little bit of concern that it could affect our candidate pool."

Board member Karitsa Mosely Jones, as well as Commissioner Katherlyn Geter, said they had been hearing a number of complaints about "dilution" of black votes. Ms. Jones said one majority black section in the south part of the county was being combined with Lookout Valley and Lookout Mountain.

Commissioner Geter said, "That is voter suppression."

Commissioner Greg Martin said with the population shifts over the past 10 years that only District 5 was still majority black at 55.96 percent. He said District 4 had dropped to 48.92 percent black. He said the new 11-member plan again brings up the number of blacks in District 4.

Board member James Walker said having 11 similar districts for both groups "makes all the sense in the world."
90 Day Fiance Season 1 cast member Paola Pao Mayfield calls out a girl who tried to get in the middle of her marriage with Russ Mayfield on social media. It appears there may have been some attempted infidelity in the marriage, but wrestler Pao isnt having it. Are Pao and Russ still together?

Paola and Russ Mayfield on 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After? | TLC

Paola and Russ 90 Day Fiance journey

Russ met Paola while traveling to her home country of Colombia during his work trip while working as a field engineer in the oil industry. The couple fell in love, and thats when they decided to bring Paola to the United States on a K-1 visa. TLC cameras documented their journey on 90 Day Fiance Season 1. After arriving in Oklahoma, Pao quickly realized that she clashed with Russ parents more conservative style. Still, the couple married on Oct 7, 2013. Soon after marrying, Pao moved to Miami, Florida, ahead of Russ, eager to start her modeling career.

In 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After? Season one, Russ lost his job and faced unemployment while searching for a career in Miami. In July 2018, Pao and Russ became pregnant after a tragic miscarriage. They were thrilled that they were finally going to become parents. Pao gave birth to Axel Mayfield on Jan 1, 2019. Since then, Paos career has shifted quite a bit. Shes now working on her wrestling moves as Paola Blaze, which she showed on an episode of 90 Day: Bares All.

Paola calls out the girl who tried to get in the middle of her marriage to Russ

On Oct 23, Paola posted a photo of herself on Instagram, directing the caption at a woman trying to get in the middle of her marriage to Russ. Pao posted a series of pictures of herself in a tight, green bodysuit with black boots and a black hat. Check out Paolas Instagram post below:

She captioned the photos, For the girl who tried to get in the middle, you will need to do so much more to take away my crown!. She then added the hashtag, #yesIknow. What does this mean for Pao and Russ marriage? 90 Day Fiance fans speculate about what this cryptic caption means. One fan writes on Reddit, Sounds like Russ was cheating or trying to?

Are Paola and Russ still together?

Paola and Russ marriage was on the rocks in late July of 2021 when Pao posted a series of cryptic tweets about her marriage. She tweeted: Sometimes [it] is better to recognize when its time to move on and accept that it wasnt meant to be for the long run. Then wrote, People asked me why I dont take pictures with my husband, and my answer is  I just dont like to pretend #youareguessingright.

She then wrote, Part of the reason why relationships end is that we get caught up in other things, forget to appreciate one another, and sadly, marriage isnt a priority anymore. A rep for the 90 Day Fiance couple Dominique Enchinton of Dominton Talent House told People that Pao and Russ are working on their relationship. The representative said, Theyre still together. Theyre going to be going to a therapist. But theyre going to take a little break right now.

What is going on between Russ and Pao? It appears that theyre trying to get back on track. It reminds to be seen if theyll be able to fix their marriage, especially now that another person is involved.

RELATED: 90 Day Fiance: Kenneth Kenny Niedermeier Celebrates the Birth of 2nd Grandson in Instagram Post
Captain Sean Meagher from Below Deck shared which crew members made the best and worst impression on him during their initial meeting. He said that first mate Eddie Lucas made the best impression on him, but Jessica Albert made the worst. Meagher didnt go into detail about why Lucas made the best impression but he shared the reason why he shook his head upon meeting Albert.

Captain Sean from Below Deck shared why Jessica Albert didnt impress him

Meagher addressed the best and worst question during an appearance on Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen. I gotta admit that Eddie made a great first impression, he said on the After Show. I think that Jessica probably made the worst first impression [laughs]. Cause she spelled Alaska wrong on her resume.

Captain Sean from Below Deck offers his first impressions of the crew | Bravo Media

Host Andy Cohen pondered how she managed to misspell Alaska. She spelled it Alsaka,' Meagher recalled. Meagher also told Showbiz Cheat Sheet that he regretted not having as much time to get to know the crew.

What does Captain Sean think of the rest of the Below Deck crew?

Meagher said he only appeared on the show for a short amount of time so he didnt have the time hed normally have to get to know the Below Deck Season 9 crew. You dont know what someone is good at until you talk to them, he told Showbiz Cheat Sheet about how he assessed the crew. So it was good that I was on the beach with Jake [Foulger]. And I liked talking to Frazier [Olender]. I didnt get to talk to Heather [Chase] as much as I would have liked. But its like, what can you do and what can you bring to the table?

RELATED: Eddie From Below Deck Reveals the Real Reason Why He Returned (and Could He Take Over for Captain Lee Someday?)

And then once you find out what you have in your arsenal, then you can begin to deploy that arsenal, he said about the crews talents and strengths. Meagher also said he really liked chef Rachel Hargrove. He was seen joking with her in the galley kitchen and laughing at her silliness.

I like Rachel a lot, he said. But I didnt get a chance [to try her food]. So that was a bummer.

What did the Below Deck crew think of Captain Sean?

So what did the crew think of Meagher? After Meaghers crew chat most of them looked  terrified. This is not a good sign, Lucas said in a confessional. Scary. Later, when Meagher insisted on reconfiguring the beach club space, Lucas added, Dudes crazy.

Olender looked like a deer in headlights to Meaghers comments about ax swinging and firing crew members who do something stupid. Oh God, he said in a confessional.

RELATED: Below Decks Captain Lee Reveals Why Rhylee Gerber Wasnt Tipped During First Season 7 Charter

Lucas is used to working for Captain Lee Rosbach, who typically doesnt get as involved in day-to-day operations. So when Meagher jumped in and insisted on making the beach picnic setup perfect, Lucas seemed to be exasperated. Captain Seans methods are definitely irregular, Lucas said in a confessional. Im trying to get a job done here. But hes not even giving me the chance. Meagher was seen getting deep into the beach picnic setup configuration.

But Lucas said, Relax. Everythings gonna be great [doing his best Donald Trump impression). Lucas then ends up driving back and forth between My Seanna and the beach setup while Meagher tries to make it perfect.

Below Deck is on Monday at 9/8c on Bravo.
On this weeks Days of Our Lives comings and goings, Theo Carver returns to Salem to pay a visit to his recently-shot father, Abe. How long will he be on the canvas? Plus, a fan favorite villainess is back, as are a few other villains. Lets see who is coming and going into Salem this week.

Days of Our Lives | Wikimedia Commons

How long will Cameron Johnson be on the Days of Our Lives canvas?

Cameron Johnson has been playing Theo Carver on Days of Our Lives since October 2020. He took over the role from Kyler Pettis, who won a Daytime Emmy for the role. Theo is, of course, Abe Carvers beloved son  the product of Abes relationship with his beloved Lexie Carver. Initially, Days fans will remember that Theos paternity was in question because Lexie was having an affair behind Abes back. Ultimately, though, Abe claimed Theo as his own when DNA testing confirms that he is Theos father.

Kyler Pettis, who played Theo Carver on Days of Our Lives | Getty Images

When Abe got shot by Jake DiMera in a boneheaded move, Theo came back from South Africa to see his dad. However, whats not clear is how long Johnson will be on the canvas, or whether hell continue to play Theo Carver.

In the latest #DAYS, Kayla tries to revive Abe, who has flatlined. As she fights against the odds Abe walks into the light



Watch weekdays on @NBC and stream exclusively on @PeacockTV for FREE. https://t.co/FI8PGzrCgn pic.twitter.com/pcPeALXNnr  Days of our Lives (@nbcdays) October 26, 2021

But Days of Our Lives fans can expect to see Johnson on the Oct. 28 episode of the show.

Stacy Haiduk is back as Kristen DiMera

According to SoapHub, Stacy Haiduk returned to the canvas as Kristen DiMera on the Oct. 26 episode of Days of Our Lives. She shared some scenes with EJ. Haiduks return cleared up some earlier rumors that Eileen Davidson  who originated the role of Kristen  would be returning to the canvas.

Davidson, however, did say that she would be open to returning to the canvas, if the situation presented itself.

Im open to anything but it would really depend, she said. I have nothing but the greatest respect for Stacy [Haiduk], we ended up talking on set, I love her. Ive always loved her when she was Patty on Y&R. Ive always gotten along with her very, very well and shes a fantastic actress and I only have the best feelings toward her. Im having fun just doing a little hit-and-run, so I wouldnt mind doing it again, depending on what it was.

Other DOOL comings and goings

SoapHub also reports that there will be another cute coming and going on the Days of Our Lives canvas.

The outlet confirms that Finley Rose Slater will be making an appearance as Bradys daughter, Rachel, on the Oct. 27 episode of the show. And we certainly havent seen the last of Carmine, either. Richard Stevens is back as Carmine on Tuesday, October 26. Hell interact with Tamara Brauns Ava and Jay Kenneth Johnsons Philip, reports the outlet.

Theres certainly plenty of drama to be had on the upcoming episodes of Days of Our Lives, thats for sure.

RELATED: Days of Our Lives Speculation: Ava Regrets Sharing Her Secrets with Philip
The death of James Michael Tyler, the actor who portrayed Gunther on Friends, has fans reminiscing about the notable secondary character. Upon closer inspection, you might notice that Gunther had a little something in common with a different character from a completely different television show. Believe it or not, Gunther from Friends and Penny from The Big Bang Theory have more than one thing in common. Perhaps most importantly, neither character ever made their surname known to viewers.

Gunther and Penny were both outsiders

Both Gunther and Penny appeared on shows that had a strong core group of pals from the very beginning. On Friends, the core group was established in the pilot. Each member of the friend group had a longstanding connection to the others. On The Big Bang Theory, Penny moved into the apartment across from Leonard Hofstadter and Sheldon Cooper, but she wasnt a core member of their group right away.

Penny in The Big Bang Theory | Michael Yarish/CBS via Getty Images

There is one main difference between Penny and Gunther that has to be noted. Penny eventually established herself as a regular member of the group. Gunther never managed to be included in the core group. Instead, he hung out on the periphery and was invited to the large casual gatherings the friends threw. Penny and Gunther had more interesting connections than just their statuses in their respective groups, though.

Neither Gunther on Friends or Penny from The Big Bang Theory was given a last name

Neither Gunther nor Penny were ever given a surname, despite both characters appearing in most of their respective shows episodes. Penny appeared in all 279 episodes of The Big Bang Theory. According to IMDb, 235 episodes of Friends aired during the shows 10 season run. Tyler appeared as Gunther in 150 of those episodes.

Chuck Lorre once explained that it took several seasons to realize that Penny was never given a last name. He later admitted the shows writers became superstitious and refused to provide her with a surname. She remained just Penny until she married Leonard Hofstadter and presumably took his name. Still, fans theorize her real last name was actually hidden in the series.

Tyler spoke to Digital Spy back in 2018, and the subject of Gunthers surname came up. Tyler revealed that the characters last name was just never established. Eventually, the shows writers had some fun with that fact. In one episode, Chandler suggests Gunthers last name could be Central Perk. Either way, Gunther and the gang never revealed his name. Tyler said he would have liked Gunther to have a completely common last name, like Smith. It certainly would have been unusual when paired with such a unique given name.

The characters also had similar career paths

The lack of surname is the most obvious connection between Penny and Gunther, but there are others. Gunther and Penny also followed similar career paths. In season 1, fans largely assumed that Gunther was just a waiter at Central Perk. In season 2, he revealed that he had been an actor in a soap opera. Gunther was Bryce on All My Children before the shows writers killed off his character in an avalanche.

Gunther and Ross | Danny Feld/NBCU Photo Bank

Similarly, Penny arrived in California with dreams of being an actor. While she had a few movie roles, her real income came from waiting tables at The Cheesecake Factory. Penny, like Gunther, eventually tired of the acting world and just accepted that stardom was never going to happen. While Penny wasnt based on Gunther, their commonalities are certainly striking.

RELATED: Part of the Cast of The Big Bang Theory Was Planning For Season 13 When The Show Ended
The Biesterfeld Group, Hamburg, has established a joint venture by acquiring a majority stake in Singapore-based GME Chemicals. The closing was now completed. A complete takeover of the remaining shares will take place in five years, according to the contract. By acquiring a stake in GME Chemicals, one of the leading distributors of specialty chemicals and polymers in South-East Asia, Biesterfeld is continuing its geographic expansion and growth strategy and laying the foundation for a targeted and long-term expansion of its market position in one of the world's fastest-growing regions in its core business.

GME Chemicals is active in the markets for performance and industrial chemicals, food, pharmaceuticals, elastomers and specialty polymers, and also in developing sustainable solutions for their customers. The company, which was established in 1999 in Singapore, has grown successfully and is represented by operating subsidiaries in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand and China, and has 60 employees.

Dirk Biesterfeld, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Biesterfeld AG, explains: "Asia is a significant growth market and of strategic importance to us. Here, too, we want to significantly increase our market presence together with our suppliers. As a family-owned company, reliability, a long-term commitment, and the joint cooperation of all employees are particularly important to us. The GME portfolio is an excellent addition to the Biesterfeld Group and we are gaining highly qualified employees. I look forward to the cooperation and a successful future together."

Thomas Arnold, CEO of Biesterfeld AG adds, "Biesterfeld's core business is technically complex and consulting-intensive products and services. Here we have developed into a leading global distributor and reliable partner. We have been growing very successfully with our principals for years and are expanding into new markets together. We are continuing on this course with our entry into GME Chemicals. We are strengthening and expanding our competencies and, together with our new colleagues, we will drive forward our strategy of continuous expansion in Asia and jointly develop further markets and segments for Biesterfeld."

Philip Chew, Managing Director and shareholder of GME Chemicals, emphasizes, "In Biesterfeld, we have not only found a majority shareholder and, in the future, a new owner, but a true partner. We share the same business view and the same values. As shareholders, we will therefore remain in the company with our management team and our employees. I am sure that with our know-how, we can jointly and significantly expand the solution portfolio for customers in Asia and accelerate the growth of our suppliers in our markets. I look forward to our continued journey as part of the Biesterfeld Group."

The parties have agreed not to disclose details of the transaction.
The Cherokee Nation is investing an additional $29 million in the next three years to help CN citizens negatively impacted by the COVID-19 receive vocational training in skilled trade sectors.
Memorial service for Kevin Hair, 65, of Chickasha, OK will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday, November 13, 2021 at the Southern Oaks Church of Christ in Chickasha. Floyd Kevin Hair was a well loved father, son and brother. He was such a good brother-in-law that he just had to be called "brother." 
According to the U.S.-based persecution watchdog group International Christian Concern (ICC), at least 17 Egyptian Coptic Christians have gone missing in Libya since September 30.

Some friends and family members of the missing Christians, who were living in the Egyptian neighborhood of Tripoli, say they were detained by the authorities. Still, others say they were kidnapped by an armed group because of their faith.

Even now, there [is] no confirmed news, a lawyer of one of the missing Christians said. (My friend) Emad Nasr and the other Copts traveled to Libya three months ago. They headed to the United Arab Emirates and then to Libya because there are no direct airlines to Libya.

The Copts had visas for Libya (labor visas), but they failed to get work opportunities, and the costs of renewing the visas are high, he added. So the police of Libya detained them from September 30 until now.

According to The Christian Post, the lawyer also expressed concerns that the missing Christians could meet a similar fate to the 21 Coptic Christians who were beheaded by ISIS in 2015.

The Copts were staying in the Gargash District in Tripoli. In this residency, they were surrounded by so many persons of other countries like India and Bangladesh. So the action of detaining 17 Copts only is such a mysterious action! We are fearing of repeating an incident like the one who did by ISIS, he warned. We are contacting the Egyptian Foreign Ministry to intervene in the situation.

This is a frightening time for Egyptian Christians, regardless of whether their family or friends are among those missing, Claire Evans, ICCs Regional Manager for the Middle East, added. The memory of ISIS marching Coptic Christians down a Libyan beach to their deaths runs deep; it was an event that was traumatic for all of Egypts Christians, an event that held serious implications for everyone.

We urge the relevant authorities to do everything possible to investigate the cause of this latest disappearance, to bring these men home alive, and the perpetrators to justice.

According to Open Doors USA, Libya is ranked number 4 on its list of countries where Christians face the most persecution.

Photo courtesy: Getty Images/Eddeb

Milton Quintanilla is a freelance writer. He is also the co-hosts of the For Your Soul podcast, which seeks to equip the church with biblical truth and sound doctrine. Visit his blog Blessed Are The Forgiven.
The majority of Christian churches in Ghana are backing a proposed law that, if passed, could send lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people to prison for five years and those who advocate for their rights for 10.

The controversial Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill was drafted in part by Edem Senanu, chair of Advocates for Christ-Ghana. He told CT he believes the law is necessary because of the escalating promotion of the LGBTQIA+ community in Ghana.

A South Africa-based group that advocates for LGBT rights attempted to organize a conference in Ghana in July 2020 and an LGBT resource center opened in Accra, the capital, in January 2021. Though the conference was canceled and the resource center closed, they raised concern among conservative Christians in the West African country.

It was an escalation, Senanu said. It seemed strange and also an affront that anyone could openly set up an office to promote the LGBTQIA+ community, using their clout and influence and financial resources to recruit young people to join their ranks.

Ghana law currently prohibits unnatural carnal knowledge, a statute carried over from British law when Ghana achieved independence in 1957. The crime carries a three-year sentence but is rarely enforced.

The bill increasing the penalties for same-sex relations was presented to parliament in June by eight lawmakers, led by Samuel George, with the National Democratic Congress (NDC) party currently in the opposition. It is due to be debated after parliament resumes on October 26.

The Christian Council of Ghana, which includes Anglicans, Methodists, and Presbyterians, and the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), an umbrella group of 200 churches and ministries, issued a joint statement backing the draft law. They urged parliament to pass the bill and President Nana Akufo-Addo to sign it, saying homosexuality is unacceptable behaviour that our God frowns upon and alien to the Ghanaian culture and family value system.

The two organizations have also argued the law will help safeguard our cherished family system in Ghana.

Rights groups like Rightify Ghana, on the other hand, say the bill is a populist ploy to distract Christians and other voters from the real problems that politicians havent been able to fix, including government corruption, unemployment, and poor infrastructure.

There is a belief that when you hate LGBTQ people, you win votes, Danny Bediako, executive director of Rightify, told CT.

Ghana is one of 32 African nations where homosexuality is criminalized. It is a deeply conservative country, especially when it comes to sexuality and gender roles. About 71 percent identify as Christians. Data gathered in 2016 and 2018 by the pan-African research body Afrobarometer showed that only 7 percent of Ghanaians would like to have an LGBT neighor or not care if their neighbor was gay.

LGBT people in Ghana face blackmail, beatings, ostracism, school suspension, and loss of employment, according to activists. They believe things will likely get harder if the law passes. One provision will disband any organization that serves the LGBT community or defends their basic civil rights.

Rightify Ghana, which trains paralegals and cares for people with HIV in addition to advocating for LGBT rights, would be forced to close if the law passed in its current form, according to Bediako.

According to some activists, it is difficult just to disagree with the predominant anti-LGBT view in the country.

Anyone who experiences a different point of view from the anti-gay perspective is at risk in Ghana, said Davis Mac-Iyalla, director of the Accra-based Interfaith Diversity Network of West Africa, an organization that works to build bridges between different faith groups and to promote acceptance of LGBT people.

Mac-Iyalla said the church support for the law is especially frustrating, because many LGBT people in Ghana are themselves committed, faithful Christians.

It's worrying to see mainstream churches and religious institutions avoiding the main needs and issues affecting Ghanaians but instead talking about human sexuality and promoting hate, he said. Many LGBT people live with constant spiritual violence and abuse from their religious denominations or institutions.

The proposed law has faced sharp opposition from human rights advocates and international Black celebrities, such as actor Idris Elba and model Naomi Campbell. Critics inside and outside Ghana have called on Ghana politicians to reject the law with the social media hashtag #KillTheBill.

Some Ghana leaders are worried the law would alienate international tourists, businesses, and Western nations supporting economic development in Ghana.

Some of the most controversial clauses promote conversion therapy, offering flexible sentencing for any convicted person who openly recants and requests approved medical help. According to the bill, this kind of therapy reflects the policy to provide support and assistance to persons who, for psychological or biological reasons may become easy prey to lifestyle LGBTTQQIAAP+ persons.

Another contentious clause in the bill could also impact heterosexual Christians in Ghana. The law includes a duty to report, making it a criminal offense not to tell authorities about LGBT people.

Akosua Adomako Ampofo, a professor at the University of Ghanas Institute of African Studies, says this potentially criminalizes all Ghanaians.

If I fail to report my family member, colleague, or student for any of the offences, I too become a criminal, Ampofo wrote.

As a Christian commanded by Jesus to love her neighbor, Ampofo argued she couldnt support such a law.

When I read the Bill, I cannot find grace or compassion, she said. What I find is judgment, and condemnation.

Paul Frimpong-Manso, president of the GPCC, has acknowledged the bill is not perfect but urged support for the law regardless.

We are not oblivious of the fact that there is still room for improvement on this bill, he said in an official statement. We would continue to pray to the Lord Almighty for strength, wisdom, courage, boldness and sense of conviction for all involved in this process to carry through this divine assignment for God, country and generations yet unborn.

A majority of the members of parliament appear to support the Promotion of Proper Human Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, observers say. Some parts of the bill could be amended during debate, though, and there may be some last-minute opposition to the proposed law.

Senanu said he expects it to pass.

We have the majority, he said. The churches have a very strong view of this.
Liberty U categorically denies wrongdoing in Scott Lamb firing; says it takes sex abuse claims seriously

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Liberty University is denying reports that it fired its former spokesperson Scott Lamb because of how the prominent Christian school responded to allegations of mishandling sexual abuse claims.

Lamb has sued the Lynchburg, Virginia-based Christian university, arguing that administrators fired him because he expressed concern over how school officials were handling students' allegations of sexual assault.

In a statement emailed to The Christian Post on Tuesday morning, Liberty University said that it categorically denies Mr. Lamb's claims that his termination was in any way the result of advice he had given on how the university should respond to the Jane Doe Title IX lawsuit.

In reality, Mr. Lamb was terminated-with-cause as a result of a meeting about a recent review of the area under his management, Liberty added in its statement.

Lamb's lawsuit is a transparent effort to rebuild his own reputation by shamefully playing on the goodwill of supporters of sexual assault victims. We look forward to addressing his claims in court.

On Monday, ProPublica published an investigative piece titled, The Liberty Way: How Liberty University Discourages and Dismisses Students Reports of Sexual Assaults.

The piece included interviews of former Liberty students who detailed experiences in which the university allegedly failed to properly handle allegations of sexual assault and would even threaten accusers.

ProPublica also mentioned how Lamb, Libertys former senior vice president of communications, was allegedly fired for expressing concern over how the university was handling the matter.

Concerns about sexual assault would go up the chain and then die, Lamb told ProPublica, saying that Liberty would engage in a conspiracy of silence over allegations.

In July, 12 unnamed women filed a class-action lawsuit against Liberty, accusing the university of violating Title IX federal anti-discrimination law, specifically failing to properly process sexual assault and harassment allegations.

Liberty University has intentionally created a campus environment where sexual assaults and rapes are foreseeably more likely to occur than they would in the absence of Libertys policies, stated the lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York.

The complaint argued that Liberty created an unsafe campus environment by misusing its honor code, known as The Liberty Way, which, among other things, forbids extramarital sex, drinking alcohol, or attending events where alcohol is served.

The suit claimed that The Liberty Way fails to clarify if a woman who reports being sexually assaulted will be punished for violating the honor code if she admits to breaking other aspects of the code, like drinking, when she reports an alleged sexual assault.

Regarding the lawsuit and the media attention caused by the ProPublica piece, Liberty President Jerry Prevo issued a statement on Tuesday denying a mishandling of allegations.

Prevo quoted from multiple remarks he had made in the past, both to Liberty staff and students, in which he supported efforts to make sure that complaints were handled properly.

The Liberty Way should never be misused to cover up wrongdoing. It is also the case that as a Christian university we will remain unwavering in our commitment to cultivating a culture in our Liberty community that honors Gods Word and embraces Gods principles for life, he added.

While The Liberty Way must never be used to discourage victims from reporting wrongdoing, we also believe that we do not have to choose between embracing our code of conduct as a Christian university and in complying with our legal Title IX obligations.
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Where are the other nine? (Luke 17:17)

In our culture of instant gratification and entitlement, the concept of thankfulness and gratitude is slipping more and more out of our grasp. The more we get, the more we want. The less we stop to be thankful for what we have received. Our children are growing up with the world at their fingertips through the power of the internet and social media, blissfully unaware of how fortunate they are. This problem will continue to expandunless we take a moment to acknowledge the importance of a spirit of thankfulness on multiple levels.

Studies have shown that being thankful improves our physical and emotional health. Holding on to feelings of thankfulness boosts our immune system and increases blood supply to our hearts. Daily guided exercises or the habit of keeping a weekly gratitude journal can increase our alertness, enthusiasm, and energy, as well as improve our sleep. People who describe themselves as feeling grateful tend to suffer less stress and depression than the rest of the population.

For all its benefits, gratitude doesnt come naturally to us. As Jesus passed through a village one day, he was spotted by ten lepers who desperately longed to be healed (Luke 17:11-19). They kept themselves at a distance as required by law but cried out to him, Jesus, Master, have pity on us! Instead of instantly healing the men, Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priest. As the ten lepers walked off to obey, their skin disease disappeared.

One of the men turned around, shouting praises to God as he came back to Jesus. He threw himself at his benefactors feet. Jesus expressed amazement that only one man had thought to thank him. Were not all ten cleansed? he asked. Where are the other nine? He also pointed out that the only man who did respond was a Samaritan, a race despised by the Jewish people.

For Christians, cultivating a spirit of thankfulness is more than a good idea; its a direct command from God. In the Old Testament, God laid down specific guidelines for the Israelites to bring offerings of thanks. In the New Testament, believers are instructed to be thankful in all circumstances (1 Thessalonians 5:18). When were struggling with trials and difficulties, this sounds like a strange command, especially since we live in a culture that encourages us to act on the basis of how we feel. But God knows that when we focus on our blessings, its easier to keep our problems and concerns in the right perspective.

King David never lost his keen awareness of all that God had done for the nation of Israel and for him personally. Even though he experienced disappointment, pain, and heartache, David often poured out his feelings of thankfulness to his Creator and Lord. That gratitude became the foundation of his worship of God.

Cultivating a spirit of thankfulness honors God and strengthens our faith. It also strengthens our relationships with other people. We cant be in a healthy relationship with God or with anyone without a spirit of thankfulness. No matter what problems were struggling with, we dont want to be like the nine former lepers who forgot to say thank you to their Healer.
Michigan brewery takes ownership of historic church amid steady membership decline

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A congregation in Michigan has reached an agreement with a local brewery to use its church building for events in return for the pub paying for various maintenance expenses.

Grace Episcopal Church of Ishpeming and a local establishment known as Kognisjon Bryggeri, also known as Cognition Brewing Company, announced the deal earlier this month.

As part of the agreement, ownership of the property was transferred to the pub, which will oversee repairs and allow the congregation to continue meeting there on Sunday mornings.

Grace Episcopal, founded in 1902, belongs to the Episcopal Diocese of Northern Michigan, a small regional body of The Episcopal Church based in the northern peninsula of the Great Lakes area state.

A representative of the Northern Michigan Diocese emailed The Christian Post a statement Friday explaining that Grace Episcopal has experienced a steady decline in members in recent years. That has put a burden on their ability to do repairs and tend to various building maintenance issues.

In the alley behind Grace Episcopal Church was Cognition Brewing Company, a popular gathering space for locals and biking enthusiasts, owned by local electrician and 3rd generation Ishpeming resident, Jay Clancey, explained the diocese.

Clanceys longtime dream for his brewery was that it would revitalize historic downtown Ishpeming. The mission of the church is to care for and nourish people in the community, thus creating a perfect partnership.

Local organizations interested in hosting events at the church building include Bearded Lady Creations, the Lake Superior Theatre, Partridge Creek Farms and Peace Pies.

Grace Episcopal Church priest Ginny Graybill said in a statement that although Jay owns the building, there shall be no immediate change in our worship.

Church is community, stated Graybill. We are looking forward to working together to make this building a community hub.

In recent years, some congregations have found themselves striking agreements with bars, even holding worship at breweries to reach out to the general population.

The congregation of Greater Purpose Community Church in Santa Cruz, California, sold its church building a few years ago and began holding services at a local drinking establishment.

We decided to sell the building because for us a church is a community and a movement, the churchs pastor Chris VanHall said in an interview with NBC in 2018. Its not brick and mortar.

Theres nothing in the Bible that says you cant drink alcohol in a responsible manner, he added.

As The Christian Post has reported, recent years have seen more people engaged in more unconventional ways of worship as more churches are forced to close. Even in a Bible Belt state like South Carolina, there have been churches planted in bars, movie theatres and homes.
Mike Stone sues Russell Moore for 'defamation,' 'emotional distress' in wake of leaked letters

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Mike Stone, the former chair of the Southern Baptist Conventions Executive Committee, has filed a defamation lawsuit against Russell Moore, the former president of the denominations Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission who stepped down this year.

Stone, who pastors the Emmanuel Baptist in Blackshear, Georgia, is suing Moore for for claims of defamation, false light invasion of privacy, and emotional distress.

According to The Tennessean, lawyers for Stone filed the lawsuit Monday in U.S. District Court for Middle Tennessee. The complaint centers on leaked letters written by Moore, who resigned as ERLC president in May.

In the first letter from February 2020 leaked to Religion News Service in May, Moore alleged that the SBC Executive Committee wanted him to live in psychological terror and that he and his family had endured unfair treatment by denominational leaders. The letter came amid the ERLCs promotion of racial justice initiatives and calls for the denomination to improve its handling of sexual abuse allegations.

Another letter leaked to the media was written by Moore to then-SBC President J.D. Greear in May, alleging that SBC leaders mishandled a crisis of sexual abuse.

You and I both know leadership in the Executive Committee, at the trustee level with Mike Stone and his allies, and at the staff level by former Executive Vice-President Augie Boto, have stonewalled many attempts at reform for the sake of the sexually abused, Moore wrote in the letter.

Stone, who has been a member of the SBC Executive Committee since 2014 and served as its chairman from June 2018 through June 2020, claims that Moore began a malicious, intentional, and egregious campaign to harm him by defaming him with the text of two letters strategically concealed from general distribution within the ERLC and the SBC.

The letters were leaked just weeks ahead of the SBCs 2021 annual meeting in June, where Stone ran for convention president. He subsequently lost to Alabama Pastor Ed Litton.

Stone, represented by the Brentwood-based Cole Law Group, alleges that Moores letters directly led to his loss, harmed his overall reputation and diminished his future earning capacity. Hes seeking $750,000 in damages.

Plaintiffs business operations have already been negatively impacted by Defendants untruthful statements due to a decreased trust and confidence in Plaintiff in the religious community, and the Plaintiffs pastoral efforts will undoubtedly suffer decreased church attendance and a reduction in donations and honorariums because of Defendants statements which are untruthful and have cast Plaintiff in a false light, the lawsuit alleges.

At the time Moore wrote his letters, the SBC Executive Committee, headed by Stone, had scrutinized the ERLC amid concerns from within the denomination about Moores leadership. Some had threatened to withhold donations from the SBC Cooperative Program, which in part funds the commission.

At the time, the task force also said its findings showed considerable conversation continued in the SBC as to the effectiveness and efficiency of the ERLCs current structure in addressing public policy concerns.

In his lawsuit, Stone claims that Moores letters were retaliation for his role in chairing the study.

Shortly after the release of the letters in June, Stone told The Christian Post that he did not recognize the SBC that Moore described and that he had mischaracterized Southern Baptists.

The accusation that a special 2020 ERLC Task Force was a unilateral action on my part is blatantly and provably false, Stone said. This attack is a deflection from the fact that Russells leadership of the ERLC has been an ongoing source of division and distraction for Southern Baptists.
Challenging Biden, Alabama gov. orders state agencies to fight federal vaccine mandates

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Citing outrageous overreach by the federal government, Republican Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signed an executive order Monday instructing state agencies to resist the Biden administrations vaccine mandates.

The federal governments outrageous overreach has simply given us no other option, but to begin taking action, which is why I am issuing this executive order to fight these egregious COVID--19 vaccine mandates, Ivey said in a statement. Alabamians  and Americans alike  should and must have the choice to roll up their sleeves to get this shot and certainly not forced by government. While President Biden laughs at the idea of protecting your freedoms, I will continue fighting for Alabama businesses and their employees.

Iveys order comes after President Joe Biden moved last month to mandate that all employers with 100 or more employees require their employees to be fully vaccinated or show a negative COVID-19 test at least once a week or be fined $14,000 per violation. The order also mandated vaccines for healthcare workers, federal contractors and most federal workers who could face penalties if they refuse.

Weve been patient, but our patience is wearing thin. And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing. But just dont 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, Biden said in remarks announcing the mandates on Sept. 9.

Ivey argued that COVID-19 vaccine mandates are not the way to go, noting in her order that the best ways to encourage COVID-19 vaccinations in Alabama is through education, transparency, communication and persuasion  not government coercion.

Effective immediately, no agency, department, board, commission, or other entity within the executive branch of state government shall, under color of state law, seek to impose a penalty on any business or individual for noncompliance with any federally imposed requirement that has the purpose or effect of (a) forcing an individual to receive a COVID-19 vaccination or (b) requiring a business to force its employees to receive a COVID-19 vaccination, the governor's order states in part.

To the extent any such entity is required or compelled to impose such a penalty as a result of federal law, the entity shall take all practical steps to notify the affected business or individual that the State of Alabama does not approve, condone, or otherwise endorse the imposition of such a penalty.

At least 24 Republican state attorneys general threatened legal action last month against the federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates and Ivey joined that choir on Monday.

If the federal government presses on with these new federal mandates, then the Biden White House has once again failed the American people. As I have stated, no doubt, this will be challenged in federal courts. I am already working in concert with Attorney General Steve Marshall, because Alabama is standing firm in this fight. This latest move by the federal government is what I believe is an illegal overreach, and I am confident we will win the battle in the courts, she said.

I am adamantly opposed to federal mandates related to the COVID-19 vaccine and adamantly opposed to state mandates related to the COVID-19 vaccine, plain and simple. As long as I am your governor, the state of Alabama will not force anyone to take a COVID-19 vaccine. Through todays order, the state of Alabama is making our position on this issue crystal clear. A state law in response to President Biden is not enough. The courts are where this will be resolved. Today is one step in this fight, but certainly not the last, Ivey added.
Archaeologists find rare 2,000-year-old Balm of Gilead gemstone seal near Western Wall

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Archaeologists in Israel say they have discovered in eastern Jerusalem a 2,000-year-old precious gem an engraving that depicts the Balm of Gilead, a rare perfume used medicinally and which was mentioned in the Hebrew Bible.

The Israel Antiquities Authority announced the discovery of an ancient amethyst seal bearing the first known depiction of the plant just north of the City of David, Jewish News Syndicate reported.

The seal was found during excavations in the Emek Tzurim National Park along the foundation stones of the Western Wall in Jerusalems Old City, it added.

This is an important find, because it may be the first time that a seal has been discovered in the entire world with an engraving of the precious and famous plant, which until now we could only read about in historical descriptions, archaeologist Eli Shukron, who conducted the excavation, was quoted as saying.

Toward the end of the Second Temple period, the use of stone stamps expanded and became more common, The Jerusalem Post quoted Prof. Shua Amorai-Stark, an expert in engraved gems, as saying.

But in most stamps discovered so far with plant engravings, it is common to find plants that were common in Israel at the time: vines, dates and olives, which are among the seven species. But on this stone seal, we immediately noticed that the fruit that appears on it is unlike any of the fruits we have encountered to date.

The Bible prominently mentions the Balm of Gilead, also known as balsam tree or persimmon.

After having cast him into a pit, Josephs brothers saw a caravan on its way from Gilead to Egypt, with their camels bearing spicery, and balm, and myrrh, according to Genesis 37:25.

While dispatching his embassy into Egypt, Jacob gifted a little balm to the unknown ruler, as per Genesis 43:11. During the final years of the Kingdom of Judah, Jeremiah asks in Jeremiah 8:22, Is there no balm in Gilead?

The oval stone uncovered by archeologists is about 10 mm long and five mm wide, and it also features a bird that looks like a dove, the archaeologists said.

The balsam plant is a positive symbol because, beyond the fact that it was used to produce perfumes and medicines, the ancient persimmon  which, by the way, is not at all similar to todays persimmon  was attributed magical and ceremonial properties and is one of the ingredients used for making the Temple incense during the Second Temple period, which is when this seal was made, Shukron was quoted as saying.

The dove is also a positive motif in the Hellenistic, Roman and Jewish world, Amorai-Stark said. It symbolizes wealth, happiness, goodness and success.
DC police officers say they were ordered to get abortions or be fired

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Two female police officers with the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Police Department have revealed that when they were cadets, their superiors ordered them to terminate their pregnancies.

Chanel Dickerson, assistant chief of the MPD Youth and Family Engagement Bureau, explained at a recent community gathering at Unity Baptist Church of D.C. that she became pregnant during her time at the police academy. She was told to get an abortion if she wanted to keep her job.

When I was 18 years old, as a police cadet, I was told I had to have an abortion or be fired from the MPD cadet program, Dickerson said, as reported by Fox 5. Wow. My choice to have a baby was personal and it shouldve been mine alone and not ... with an employer ultimatum.

Dickersons ultimatum was not a unique phenomenon. A day after publishing the report about Dickerson, Fox 5 broadcast an interview with Karen Arikpo, a police officer who alleged that abortion was painted as a mandatory course of action for pregnant police cadets. Arikpo recalled a female sergeant in the police academy telling the cadets: If we were pregnant, we need to get an abortion or we would be fired.

Arikpo later told her sergeant that she was pregnant. In response, she recalled the sergeant saying she needed to have an abortion" and "she referred me to a doctor. Arikpo, who graduated with Dickerson from the police academy in 1997, said the consequences of her abortion still haunt her to this day.

Ive never been able to have a kid, she explained. Arikpo maintained that if she could go back in time, she would have quit the police academy and had the baby: I did this for a job. ... And then to want kids and cant have them. How do you tell people that?

Dickerson is one of 10 African American female police officers who joined a class-action lawsuit filed last month against the MPD, which accuses the department of engaging in discrimination on the basis of race and gender. The plaintiffs are seeking $100 million in compensatory damages and an order declaring that the MPDs employment policies, practices and procedures towards Black women police officers constitute unlawful discrimination and retaliation.

Their legal complaint claims that the Equal Employment Office, the division in charge of dealing with discriminatory problems within the department, is itself headed by a man who has repeatedly expressed hostility to women officers, and who colludes with management to crush Black women who complain about race and gender discrimination and sexual harassment.

Dickerson elaborated on the workplace culture during her remarks at Unity Baptist Church. When one of her colleagues needed a shift that was conducive to taking care of her child as a single mother, she declared that her colleague had to do things no woman should ever have to do to care for her child.

NBC News reported that Tiara Brown, who worked for the MPD for five years and is one of the complainants, was named officer of the year in 2019.

Of the 10 women, three said they were forced out of their jobs with MPD, while five remain on the force, one is retired, and the tenth complainant resigned last year.

While we cannot discuss the specific allegations due to pending litigation, the Metropolitan Police Department is committed to treating all members fairly and equitably throughout our organization, responded MPD spokesperson Alaina Gertz in a statement to NBC News.

We take these allegations seriously and we will be reviewing them thoroughly and responding accordingly, she vowed.
Families of kidnapped missionaries in Haiti preach forgiveness as gang leader threatens to kill loved ones

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Family members of the 17 missionaries kidnapped by the 400 Mawozo gang in Haiti preached forgiveness for their kidnappers days after Wilson Joseph, the gangs leader, threatened to put a bullet in the heads of their loved ones if his $17 million ransom demand for their release isnt met.

The 400 Mawozo gang kidnapped the missionaries, which include 16 Americans, one Canadian and five children on Oct. 16, while they were working with Christian Aid Ministries. The gang has demanded $1 million each for their safe return.

Despite the threat of execution, Christian Aid Ministries said in a statement on Saturday that the families are united in their desire to follow Jesus teaching of forgiveness.

As a group of Christians, our King [Jesus] said that He is not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance, an unidentified family member shared. That is our desire for the men who are part of the gang.

While negotiations for the missionaries' release continue between the gang and officials in the troubled Caribbean nation and the U.S., a video of Joseph, which began circulating on social media last Thursday, showed the crime boss wasn't pleased with the pace of negotiations.

I swear by thunder that if I dont get what Im asking for, I will put a bullet in the heads of these Americans, Joseph threatened, according to a translation cited by Bloomberg Quicktake.

The gang leader further threatened Haitis Prime Minister Ariel Henry, as well as the chief of Haitis National Police, Leon Charles. Bloomberg noted that Josephs speech was made in front of open coffins that apparently held several members of his gang who were recently killed.

You guys make me cry. I cry water. But Im going to make you guys cry blood, he said.

Henrys office announced on Thursday that Charles resigned and has been replaced by another top police official, Frantz Elbe, The Wall Street Journal reported.

When asked about the missionaries during a press briefing last Thursday, Karine Jean-Pierre cited recent comments made by U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the matter.

We have in the administration been relentlessly focused on this, including sending a team to Haiti from the State Department; working very closely with the FBI, which is the lead in these kinds of matters; in constant communication with the Haitian National Police, the church that the missionaries belong to, as well as the Haitian government. And we will do everything that we can to help resolve the situation, Blinken said.

Since the kidnapping of the missionaries, Haitians have taken to the streets demanding their release. Schools and most businesses were closed for several days in Port-au-Prince last week, according to The Haitian Times, following a call for a general strike to protest kidnappings and widespread insecurity, which followed the assassination of the countrys late President Jovenel Moise in July.

In his comments on Haitian insecurity, Blinken said the U.S. is working with local officials to improve the situation on the ground.

We have been working closely with the Haitian National Police to try to build their capacity, as well as help put in place programs that can effectively deal with the gangs. But its a very challenging and long-term process. Were focused on it, but is it absolutely essential that this security dynamic change if Haiti is going to make real progress, he said.
12 women claim Liberty U mishandled sexual assault allegations in new lawsuit

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A dozen women have filed a class-action lawsuit against Liberty University, arguing that the evangelical higher education institution failed to adequately investigate credible claims of sexual assault properly.

Twelve unnamed women filed the lawsuit on Tuesday against the Lynchburg, Virginia-based university in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York.

The plaintiffs accuse Liberty officials of violating Title IX federal anti-discrimination law, namely failing to process sexual assault and harassment allegations properly.

Liberty University has intentionally created a campus environment where sexual assaults and rapes are foreseeably more likely to occur than they would in the absence of Libertys policies, claimed the lawsuit.

The complaint argued that Liberty created an unsafe campus environment by misusing its honor code, known as The Liberty Way. The code, among other things, prohibits extramarital sex, consuming alcohol or being at events where alcohol is served.

According to the lawsuit, the honor code fails to clarify if a woman who reports being sexually assaulted will be punished for violating the honor code if she admits, when reporting the alleged assault, to breaking other aspects of the code, such as drinking.

Some students who were the victims of sexual violence, including Plaintiffs below, reported their assaults to the University through [resident advisors], and were urged to withdraw those reports because they involved admitted violations of the Liberty Way, the lawsuit states.

Those students, including certain of the Plaintiffs, were told that their reports would subject them to discipline that could include expulsion. They, apparently, did not qualify for the amnesty, though no explanation for why was given.

The lawsuit documented the allegations of the 12 Jane Does, which involve incidents that span several years and include stalking and sexual assault incidents.

For example, according to the complaint, when Jane Doe 3 reported being assaulted by a male athlete while drunk at a party, the university investigation ignored key evidence against the athlete and dismissed her complaint against him.

The lawsuit asserts that the unnamed athlete continually harassed the plaintiff afterward, including filing a frivolous lawsuit, leading Jane Doe 3 to attempt suicide in 2017 and then drop out of Liberty in 2020.

According to the complaint, Jane Doe 7 was sexually assaulted in 2014 by a Liberty medical school student. However, she did not report the incident because she heard how other sexual assault victims who reported their attacks to the university were alleged to have been treated.

Jane Doe 10 alleged that she was raped in 2014 by a fellow student, with Libertys Student Conduct Office giving her no opportunity to present her case. Instead, the lawsuit claims the university forced her to apologize to her rapist for violating the honor code.

In response to the lawsuit, Liberty issued a statement stating that the allegations by the plaintiffs in the complaint are deeply troubling, if they turn out to be true.

Many of the claims are the complete opposite of how the Universitys policies and procedures were designed to operate over the years, the school statement reads, as reported by local media outlet WSET ABC 13 News.

Liberty has invested mightily in programs and personnel to help maintain a safe campus and to support any and all victims of sexual assault who came forward.

The statement goes on to say that the University has a robust non-discrimination policy, which includes an amnesty policy to encourage victims to make reports without fearing that their involvement in other activities like drinking alcohol or extramarital sex will be disciplined under the student honor code.

"That policy includes a fair process for resolving disputes about rape, sexual harassment, sex discrimination and retaliation, as well as providing supportive measures as appropriate," the statement continues. "It would be heartbreaking if those efforts had the results claimed in this lawsuit."

We will immediately look into each of these claims to determine what needs to be done to make things right, if they turn out to be true, the statement concluded.

Because the claims are made anonymously and go back many years, in one case over two decades, it will take some time to sort through.
Top psychiatrists urge caution before giving puberty blockers to kids with gender dysphoria

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Psychiatrists in New Zealand and Australia are emphasizing therapeutic options for gender dysphoric individuals, particularly minors, in a shift away from what is known as the affirmation-only approach and gender-affirmative care model.

A recent position statement from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists stresses the necessity of receiving a proper mental health evaluation prior to any decisions regarding irreversible medicalization such as hormones or cosmetic gender surgeries.



There is a paucity of quality evidence on the outcomes of those presenting with gender dysphoria. In particular, there is a need for better evidence in relation to outcomes for children and young people, the new RANZCP guidance reads.

The condition of gender dysphoria is "associated with significant distress  each case should be assessed by a mental health professional, which will frequently be a psychiatrist, with the person at the center of care. It is important the psychological state and context in which gender dysphoria has arisen is explored to assess the most appropriate treatment, it continues.



In an explanation of the updated stance, Dr. Philip Morris, a fellow of the RANZCP and the president of the National Association of Practicing Psychiatrists in Australia, said that the new guidance is an acknowledgment of the complexity of the issues at hand when treating the condition and the legitimacy of taking a variety of approaches.



There may be other reasons for doing it and we need to look for those, identify them and treat them. This needs to be done before initiating hormones and changing the whole physical nature of the child, Morris said. A cautious psychotherapy-first approach makes sense. If we can do that with adolescents then we will take a big step in the right direction."

The move comes amid greater scrutiny of the experimental practices and mounting concerns appearing around the world.

Earlier this year in Sweden, officials at the Karolinska University Hospital released a statement that it would no longer be administering puberty-blocking drugs to youth under the age of 16. In neighboring Finland, updated treatment guidelines prioritizing psychological help for distressed young people were issued in 2020.

Part of the Swedish rationale for the change was a ruling in the U.K. in late 2020, where a judicial review held that children were not capable of giving informed consent to chemical puberty blockade in light of repercussions such as fertility loss.

That decision was appealed and ultimately overturned earlier this year. The young woman who helped bring it about  a detransitioner named Keira Bell who argued she was harmed by the medical experimentation at the London-based Tavistock gender clinic  has vowed to take all the way up to the UK Supreme Court.



The U.K.s National Health Service also revised its website, which had previously stated that puberty blockers were a reversible treatment, to say that their long-term effects are not known.

Commenting on the Bell case, Morris said it is a positive development that these matters are being openly discussed and that the science around this topic remains unsettled.



This [has moved from]  a topic that could previously not be talked about freely to one that we can discuss more openly now. This is a big improvement. Previously, everyone thought it was all settled but its not, certainly not from a medical angle, he said.

The revision of the RANZCP guidelines is a contrast from the previous standard guidance from the Royal Childrens Hospital in Melbourne  which the RANZCP had endorsed and is followed by most gender identity services in Australia  that recommended what is known as gender-affirming care. The RANZCP endorsement was withdrawn in 2019 and set in motion a consultation that eventually produced its new position statement.

Morris thinks a compromise will be the ultimate result. He said he hopes that courts and clinicians will slow down and not assume each child hoping to undergo medicalized transition is pursuing that pathway because of genuine psychological distress about their biological sex.

Such children, he said, will be treated with respect and approach them like any other patient that presents with a condition that requires proper assessment and treatment.



In the end, some cases will be transitioned but there will be fewer than [are] transitioned at the moment, he offered.
The Pope's economics would move the world back to medieval mass starvation

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Many people are confused about how the West can be so rich and much of the rest of the world so poor. On World Food Day, Pope Francis blamed markets and capitalism.

The fight against hunger demands we overcome the cold logic of the market, which is greedily focused on mere economic profit and the reduction of food to a commodity, and strengthening the logic of solidarity. We must adapt our socio-economic models so they have a human face, because many models have lost it. Thinking about these situations, in Gods name I want to ask The big food corporations to stop imposing monopolistic production and distribution structures that inflate prices and end up withholding bread from the hungry.

Dr. Thomas Woods, also a Catholic, argues in his book The Church and the Market: A Catholic Defense of the Free Economy that the Pope enjoys infallibility in matters of theology and morality, but not science, according to Catholic doctrine. If he did, we wouldnt need scientists. We could just ask the Pope to solve all scientific problems. Since economics is a science, the Pope has no more insight into it than does any layman. Catholics still must study economics in order to understand how the world works, just like Protestants.

If the Pope understood economic history, he would know that the world was poorer than Haiti from prehistory until the advent of capitalism in the 17th century when standards of living began to rise for the first time in human history, but only in the Dutch Republic, a Protestant country. Later, England and its colonies followed.

How did the Dutch break the Malthusian cycles of famine and mass starvation that had plagued mankind for millennia? They implemented the economic doctrines distilled from the Bible by the Catholic theologians at the University of Salamanca, Spain, in the 16th century. As a result, the Dutch outlawed the former honorable ways to gain wealth through looting in war and kidnapping for ransom. They prevented the nobility from using the courts to steal from the common people. And they created free markets and limited government. In other words, they instantiated capitalism.

The Pope should know that the Catholic church at the time of the Industrial Revolution owned a third of all land in Europe, because wealthy people had given land to the church to help the poor for centuries. Yet, the charity of the Catholic church did not lift people out of poverty. Europeans were as poor at the launch of the Industrial Revolution as they had been 10,000 years earlier.

The Dutch launched the Industrial Revolution by using peat and wind power to mass manufacture goods for the masses. They became rich and powerful because they produced more of the things that people wanted to buy at cheaper prices.

People are poor because they produce very little of what anyone wants to buy. They produce so little because they have poor tools, knowledge and skills. For example, women farm most of the land in the world using a short-handled hoe. They can farm at most an acre or two and will use most of the produce to feed their families and have nothing left over to sell in the market for other goods.

Advancing to the cutting-edge technology of 5000 B.C., a team of oxen, would allow farmers to work 20 acres of land and produce far more food with a surplus to sell in the market so they can buy other necessities, such as clothing. Deploying mules would empower farmers to work 40 acres. Small tractors would enable them to farm 100 acres with less effort than is required for a team of oxen. So why dont they?

Envy is the main problem. Around the turn of the century, the United Nations tried to give oxen to farmers in Uganda to improve their productivity, but the farmers refused. The farmers said that others in the community would envy them for having oxen and would steal, butcher and eat them. Also, many Africans fear that envious people will use magic to cast spells on them and possibly kill them.

Before 1900, this planet could not feed more than one billion people. Starvation from famines was common and kept the world population below that level. Today, the earths population is almost eight billion and famines are rare. How can we feed eight times as many people as we did a little more than a century ago? Capitalism and markets, the things Pope Francis despises, are the reason.

So clearly, the poor need more charity, right? They do, but it will not lift them out of poverty as the Catholic Church proved throughout its history. Also, the poorest nations on the planet, such as Haiti and Tanzania, have received enough charity in the past 50 years to make every citizen a millionaire. Yet theyre still poor.

The Pope needs to learn from the many nations that leaped from starvation to wealth since World War II, such as Taiwan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, Chile and most recently, China and India. According to the World Bank, China and India have lifted over 500 million people from starvation to relative riches in the past generation, not through charity, but through freer markets.

Freer markets encourage businesspeople to invest in new and better ways of making things that others want to buy and enrich the sellers and the buyers. In that way, they serve their neighbors. And doesnt the Pope want to encourage serving others, which lifts people out of poverty?
Texans to vote on Prop 3: Religious freedom protection or threat to public health?

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A proposed constitutional amendment that would restrict the governments ability to place restrictions on worship services will appear on the ballot before Texas voters this Election Day.

Texans are set to weigh in on several constitutional amendments in the states upcoming general election, scheduled for Nov. 2. One proposed constitutional amendment, Proposition 3, would prohibit this state or a political subdivision of this state from prohibiting or limiting religious services of religious organizations.

In a statement, Jonathan Covey, director of policy for the conservative advocacy organization Texas Values, urged Texans to support the measure: Proposition 3 is crucial and needs to pass to prevent future religious services and organizations from being shut down while bike shops and grocery stores are still open. Churches, places of worship and religious organizations must be protected. Proposition 3 will safeguard religious freedom with the highest protection offered by Texas law.

Proposition 3 comes more than a year-and-a-half after the coronavirus pandemic first broke out in the United States. The beginning of the pandemic was accompanied by strict lockdowns implemented to stop the spread of the disease that, in many cases, restricted the ability of churches and houses of worship to meet in person while placing lighter constraints on comparable secular businesses.

The worship restrictions resulted in many court challenges and the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn v. Cuomo that even in a pandemic, the Constitution cannot be put away and forgotten. The majority opinion in the case concluded that restrictions barring many from attending religious services  strike at the very heart of the First Amendments guarantee of religious liberty.

Texas Values elaborated on the rationale behind Proposition 3 in a one-page summary. In one Texas town, police officers circled a church parking lot while parishioners were having outdoor services. In two other cities, worshippers had to pursue legal action against the city government for unfair closure and treatment of churches during the pandemic.

David Marcus, a representative of the El Paso chapter of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, expressed his opposition to Proposition 3 in an op-ed for El Paso Matters. Marcus concluded that the measure threatens public health under the guise of religious freedom.

If it were to pass, Proposition 3 could have deadly consequences if the COVID-19 pandemic worsens or if we face a more contagious virus. If the state cant temporarily limit gatherings, a crowded religious service could be a potential super-spreader of the virus, leading to other infections of unsuspecting members of the community, he warned.

Marcus further contended that if Proposition 3 were to go into effect, a fire marshal might not be able to ensure that a church complies with occupancy limits and emergency exit requirements. He asserted that under the U.S. and Texas Constitutions, the government can place limits on religious activities in emergency situations so long as such limitations are neutral and generally applicable or narrowly tailored to serve a compelling state interest.

Earlier this year, the Republican-controlled Texas Legislature approved House Bill 1239, also known as the Freedom to Worship Act, which proclaims that A government agency or public official may not issue an order that closes or has the effect of closing places of worship in this state or in a geographic area of this state. The measure passed both chambers of the state Legislature with bipartisan support, with the House approving the bill by a vote of 122-22 and the Senate greenlighting it in a 28-3 vote.

Texas Republican Gov. Greg Abbott signed the Freedom to Worship Act into law in June. As with any other bill passed by the state Legislature, a subsequent Legislature can repeal it. Supporters of Proposition 3, including Texas Values, see the ballot measure as securing the Freedom to Worship Act by preserving it in the Texas Constitution.

On the other hand, Marcus believes that a constitutional amendment is not necessary because federal and state laws already protect the right of houses of worship to hold religious services. He described Proposition 3 as cumbersome and time-consuming to undo  with catastrophic results a real possibility in the meantime.
Biden admin. collaborated with school board group on controversial 'domestic terrorism' letter: emails

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Newly publicized emails reveal that the National School Boards Association consulted with the Biden administration when crafting a letter that critics believe likened activism of concerned parents to domestic terrorism.

Emails obtained by the advocacy group Parents Defending Education in a Freedom of Information Act request demonstrate that the leadership of the National School Boards Association had been engaged with the White House for several weeks leading up to the organizations Sept. 29 letter.

The letter asked the U.S. Department of Justice to mobilize law enforcement agencies to respond to threats and acts of violence against public schoolchildren, public school board members, and other public school district officials and educators.

The letter faced criticism for citing the aforementioned threats and acts of violence as actions of domestic terrorism. While some school board members across the nation have opened up about threats they have faced from angry residents, critics believe the request to get federal law enforcement involved is unwarranted and an attempt to silence parents.

Specific examples of concerning actions listed included the disruption of school board meetings because of local directives for mask coverings to protect students and educators from COVID-19, the incitement of chaos at school board meetings by anti-mask proponents and the confrontation of school boards by angry mobs that have led boards to end meetings abruptly.

In an Oct. 2 email, National School Boards Association President Viola Garcia told members of the organizations board of directors that NSBA has been engaged with the White House and the Department of Education on these and other issues related to the pandemic for several weeks now.

In a Sept. 29 email to members of the NSBA Board of Directors, Interim Executive Director Chip Slaven noted that in discussion over the last several weeks, White House staff had requested additional information on some of the specific threats.

[S]o the letter also details many of the incidents that have been occurring, Slaven wrote.

Five days after the NSBA sent the letter to the White House, the Department of Justice published a memorandum. The document directed the Federal Bureau of Investigations, working with each United States Attorney, to convene meetings with federal, state, local, Tribal, and territorial leaders within 30 days to facilitate the discussion of strategies for addressing threats against school administrators, board members, teachers and staff.

Members of Congress asked U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland questions about the memo Thursday.

As someone who was born in the Soviet Union, I am  disturbed, very disturbed, by the use of the Department of Justice as a political tool, and its power as the police state to suppress lawful public discourse, Rep. Victoria Spartz, R-Ind., said in a House Judiciary Committee oversight hearing.

The FBI is starting to resemble old KGB with secret warrantless  surveillance, wiretapping and intimidation of citizens.

As someone who grew up in the USSR, Im disturbed that FBI is starting to resemble KGB - intimidation, surveillance, suppression of dissent... AG Garland @TheJusticeDept also didnt firmly reassure us that they will keep Americans safe in light of the border & Afghanistan crises. pic.twitter.com/92YjAjXhb0  Rep. Victoria Spartz (@RepSpartz) October 21, 2021

Describing the school board letter as the latest example, Spartz recalled that during the Soviet era, the United States criticized use of the domestic terrorism concept in the USSR as a tool to suppress free speech and political dissent.

However, Garland pushed back, saying that "true threats of violence are not protected by the First Amendment."

"Those are the things we are worried about here," Garland said. "Those are the only things we are worried about here. We are not investigating peaceful protests or parent involvement in school board meetings. There is no precedent for doing that and we would never do that. We are only concerned about violence and threats of violence against school administrators, teachers, staff."

The NSBA Board of Directors was first informed of the letter on Sept. 29, the day it was sent, which did not sit well with one of its members.

In a Sept. 29 email to Slaven, John Halkias, the director of the NSBAs Central Region, shared his belief that the Board of Directors should have been consulted before a letter like this was sent out publicly, and no less to the President of the United States and the National Press.

I also agree that the letter took a stance that went beyond what many of us would consider to be reasonable and used terms that were extreme, and asked for action by the Federal Government that many of us would not request, he added. In fact in a recent press conference, the White House Press Secretary stated that when these incidents occur, it is a matter for local law enforcement and local authorities, and NOT the federal government.

Halkias insisted that local control has been a stalwart of our principles and we do not want to abandon that concept now.

The discussion about alleged domestic terrorism at school board meetings comes as the school district in Loudoun County, Virginia, continues to face allegations of a cover-up following the sexual assaults of two teenage girls at two separate high schools in the district perpetrated by the same trans-identified male.

The first sexual assault, which occurred on May 28 at Stone Bridge High School, occurred as the district was considering implementing a policy that would allow trans-identified students to use bathrooms that correspond with their gender identity instead of their biological sex.

At the June 22 Loudoun County School Board meeting, the transgender bathroom policy became a source of contention. A handful of parents, including the father of the sexual assault victim, faced arrest after the meeting was declared an unlawful public assembly.

On Aug. 10, former State Sen. Dick Black spoke outside the Loudoun County School Board meeting, informing a crowd of protesters that the sexual assault took place.

There was a father who was getting up to speak after me. He was being harassed by several transgender advocates, people who knew that his daughter at Stone Bridge High School had  one of these guys wearing a girls dress go into the girls bathroom and forcibly sodomize her.

They knew that his daughter had been forcibly sodomized, pushed to the ground, beaten to the ground and then abused. They knew it and they deliberately tried to harass him, Black said.

After a heated confrontation with an LGBT activist at the meeting, the father was arrested. His arrest was one of the examples cited in the Sept. 29 NSBA letter to Biden.

Eight weeks later, the father of the May 28 sexual assault victim was informed that the same perpetrator sexually assaulted another teenage girl in an empty classroom at Broad Run High School. From there, he decided to go public with his story after previously staying silent on the advice of legal counsel. The Daily Wire first reported on the dual sexual assaults last week.

An email obtained by local news outlet WTOP revealed that Superintendent Scott Ziegler informed the board members that a sexual assault took place at Stone Bridge High School on the day of the incident.

This afternoon a female student alleged that a male student sexually assaulted her in the restroom, he wrote. The [Loudoun County Sheriffs Office] is investigating the matter.

The email did not mention that the perpetrator of the assault was trans-identified. It did note that the female students parent responded to the school and caused a disruption by using threatening and profane language that was overheard by staff and students.

In response to backlash from parents and parent groups, Ziegler issued an apology last week. He told parents: I regret that my comments were misleading and I apologize for the distress they caused families.

Concerns about bathroom policies are not the only issues causing parents to speak out forcefully at school board meetings. Parents and community members in Fairfax County, Virginia, and Hudson, Ohio, have chastised their respective school boards for allowing the inclusion of sexually explicit material they characterized as child pornography in high school libraries and college-level English courses.
Maryland pastor facing federal charges for arranging 60 fraudulent marriages in citizenship scheme

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A Maryland pastor was indicted this week for allegedly arranging fraudulent marriages of foreign nationals with American citizens to give them permanent residence in the United States in exchange for thousands of dollars, the Department of Justice says.

Joshua Olatokunbo Shonubi, a 50-year-old pastor at NewLife City Church, Inc. in Hyattsville, allegedly arranged 60 fraudulent marriages between January 2014 and January 2021 to secure permanent residence for foreigners, according to the indictment, ABC 7News reported.

The indictment alleges that Shonubi, often utilizing his role as pastor of NewLife, directly or through others, recruited and groomed U.S. citizens, including economically disadvantaged citizens, with payments and promises of money in exchange for marrying foreign nationals, then sponsoring the foreign nationals for permanent residence in the United States through USCIS, the Justice Department said.

The accused also allegedly gave dozens of reference letters on his churchs letterhead for the foreign nationals application for permanent residence, falsely stating: his relation to the parties; the nature of the marriage; his role in providing spiritual guidance or counseling; and his belief as to the romantic nature of the marriage, according to the seven-count indictment.

Shonubi also allegedly created fake rental leases showing his company, Jaypro, as landlord to falsely prove that the couples were living together.

If convicted, Shonubi faces a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for conspiracy to commit visa fraud and marriage fraud and a maximum of five years in federal prison for each of six counts of presenting false documents to a federal government agency, the Justice Department added.

In April, a pastor in Washington, D.C., was arrested for fraudulently obtaining more than $1.5 million from the Paycheck Protection Program, which he then splurged on personal expenses, including 39 cars.

Pastor Rudolph Brooks Jr., founder and senior pastor of the Kingdom Tabernacle of Restoration Ministries, was arrested after federal authorities seized some $2.2 million he deposited in various bank accounts as well as a 2018 Tesla Model 3.

Court papers alleged that Brooks applied for a PPP loan on behalf of his company Cars Direct on May 9, 2020, in the amount of $1,556,589. To support his application, the pastor allegedly submitted fraudulent tax forms showing $724,469 in payments via Forms 1099-MISC and $7,471,630 in total unemployment payments to employees from Cars Direct.

His churchs website described him as a man after God's own heart and has a passion for God's people.

Pastor Brooks desires to see believers grow spiritually and desires to see the church function according to the word of the Lord. His intense love for the Lord, relentless spirit and ability to tap into the very heart of God make him a memorable speaker. With his love for God and lively preaching style, which can hold even the skeptics attention, Pastor Brooks speaks and shares the heart of God with compassion and conviction, the church noted.
NIH admits US taxpayer dollars funded gain-of-function research at Wuhan lab

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A top congressional Republican is asking for answers after the National Institutes of Health appears to have admitted that contrary to multiple previous assertions, United States taxpayer dollars were used to fund gain-of-function research that could have caused the coronavirus.

Lawrence Tabak, the principal deputy director of the National Institutes of Health, said in a letter to Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., the ranking member of the House Oversight Committee, that the organizations grant to EcoHealth Alliance funded a limited experiment at the Wuhan Institute of Virology in Wuhan, China, where the coronavirus is believed to have escaped from. Still, Tabak denied that any of the coronaviruses studied using NIH grants became COVID-19.

????????????



July 28th NIH says no NIAID funding was approved for Gain of Function research at the WIV.



Obviously, they were lied to.



NIH confirmed today EcoHealth and the WIV conducted GOF research on bat coronaviruses.

@PeterDaszak with EcoHealth hid it from the USG. pic.twitter.com/Ou3ZLKto0L  Oversight Committee Republicans (@GOPoversight) October 20, 2021

The limited experiment described in the final progress report provided by EcoHealth Alliance was testing if spike proteins from naturally occurring bat coronaviruses circulating in China were capable of binding to the human ACE2 receptor in a mouse model, Tabak wrote. He stressed that All other aspects of the mice, including the immune system, remained unchanged.

Tabak maintained that although laboratory mice infected with the SHC014 WIV1 bat coronavirus became sicker than those infected with the WIV1 bat coronavirus, that was merely an unexpected result of the research, as opposed to something the researchers set out to do.

EcoHealth failed to report this finding right away, as was required by the terms of the grant. EcoHealth is being notified that they have five days today to submit to NIH any and all unpublished data from the experiments and work conducted under this award, he added.

In response to Wednesdays letter, Comer crafted a letter to NIH Director Francis Collins, said It is still too soon to say that COVID-19 did not originate in the WIV with U.S. taxpayer dollars. He added that some of the statements made in the Oct. 20 letter contradict the assurances made by Collins in a July 28 letter to the Committee.

????BREAKING????



We know:



EcoHealth & Wuhan lab conducted gain-of-function research with taxpayer $$$.



EcoHealth concealed data showing they worked on coronaviruses in Wuhan.



Director Collins and Dr. Fauci misled Americans about this cover up. @NIH must brief Congress NOW.???? pic.twitter.com/cACSl4g14o  Oversight Committee Republicans (@GOPoversight) October 21, 2021

Specifically, Collins reported that Results of the WIV experiments under the EcoHealth Alliance grant were reported to [the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases] and published contemporaneously in peer-reviewed scientific literature to inform the global scientific community of these findings.

He also mentioned a requirement that if any of the chimeric viruses generated under this grant showed evidence of enhanced virus growth greater than ten times that of the original virus from which they were created, the grantee must immediately stop all experiments with these viruses and provide NIAID and the WIV Institutional Biosafety Committee with the relevant data and information related to these unanticipated outcomes.

Comer told Collins that based on Tabaks admission that EcoHealth Alliance failed to abide by the terms of the grant, NIH must answer whether or not at the time of the July 28, 2021, response to the Committee, it knew of EcoHealths failure to properly and promptly report all of its scientific findings.

The fact that EcoHealth submitted its most recent progress report for the grant period ending May 31, 2019, on Aug. 3, 2021, suggests NIH knew, at the time of its letter to the committee, that EcoHealth had not been forthright with the U.S. government, Comer added.

Comer concluded the letter by requesting that Collins brief members of the House Oversight Committee as soon as possible. The NIH, as well as its subagency NIAID, have faced questions for months about whether taxpayer dollars funded gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

At a May 11 hearing, Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., described gain-of-function research as juicing up naturally occurring animal viruses to infect humans. He pressed Dr. Anthony Fauci, the head of NIAID who has become the public face of the U.S. governments response to the coronavirus pandemic, if he supported the funding of gain-of-function research at the Wuhan lab.

The NIH has not ever and does not now fund gain-of-function research in the Wuhan Institute of Virology, Fauci asserted. At a July 20 hearing, Paul informed Fauci that Dr. Richard Ebright, a molecular biologist from Rutgers University, concluded that the research conducted in Wuhan matches, indeed epitomizes, the definition of gain-of-function research.

When Paul asked Fauci if he wanted to amend his May 11 remarks in light of Ebrights testimony and the fact that lying to Congress constitutes a crime, the epidemiologist declined: I have never lied before the Congress and I do not retract that statement.

In an appearance on Fox News Primetime Thursday, Paul pushed back on the idea that it was unexpected that it gained function. The senator asked: How do you know if its unexpected or not? its unknown.

If you take a virus from a cave, you combine it with a virus that has a 50 percent mortality, it either is going to be more transmissible or less but you dont know in advance whether its going to be worse or better, he added. So when it gains function, that is something that actually is expected. Some of these viruses are going to gain function and then the possibility of leaking out, I think, is a horrific thing for mankind.

As of Friday afternoon, the coronavirus pandemic is estimated to have contributed to the deaths of nearly 5 million people worldwide, including more than 750,000 Americans.
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Luke recorded Peters miraculous deliverance from prison after constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church (Acts 12:5). Today, our brothers and sisters in the Church in Myanmar are caught in a bloody civil war, and they need our help. They are persecuted, killed, and are literally depending on our prayers for their deliverance. There is only one Church  the body of believers in Christ across the globe. When one part of the body is attacked, praying for their deliverance is up to us.

Specifically, we need to pray for the Chin people of Myanmar. Ninety percent of Chin people are Christian. They are educated leaders and business owners. And yet, as a group, the Chin people of Myanmar are being targeted by the military.

On September 18, the Myanmar military used heavy artillery fire against its own people in a major city called Thantlang. They burned homes, including those of Chin Christians. Because firefighters are too afraid of the military to put out the fires, people take it into their own hands. When one pastor tried to enter a burning building to save people, he was shot dead on the street. Other people who tried to help were chased down and shot.

No real choice



Young people have no opportunity for school or jobs in Myanmar. Their future is one with a forced decision between two choices  become part of the military or join forces with the army that is fighting the military.

I have been monitoring the situation in Thantlang. Half the citys population has now fled the gunfire and bombings. Christians there are in a desperate situation. The people in 10 Christian churches with 1,000 believers were forced to make a terrible decision  stay and be persecuted or flee and face an uncertain future living in the jungle, trying to make a harrowing journey over the mountains and across the border. Today, only six families remain in those churches. The rest have fled.

Those who flee go to the heavily forested mountains along the Indian border. People in the Indian state of Mizoram speak the same language and have the same culture as Myanmar. Refugees who make it there are allowed to live in refugee camps. But getting across the river border is next to impossible.

The un-crossable border



Weve all seen the harrowing videos of people crossing borders in the West. In Myanmar, the situation is dire. People who have fled their jobs, home, and schools, wander in the mountains living in makeshift tents, trying to survive in the wild. The river is turbulent, swollen in the rainy season, so the people who manage to tie together some boards to cross are often swept away by the fast current.

Communications between friends and family are nonexistent. People dont have cell phones and try to get news through word of mouth. Many people fall prey to men who turn out to be human traffickers. The traffickers make big promises, and make big money for safe passage, only to sell the familys young women to other countries as sex slaves.

In the book of Lamentations, Jeremiah describes the distress of captive Jerusalem like this: When her people fell into the hand of the enemy, with no one to help her, the adversaries saw her and mocked at her downfall  I called for my lovers, but they deceived me. My priests and my elders breathed their last in the city, while they sought food to restore their life (Lamentations 1:7, 19, NKJV).

Fervent prayer is needed



We must be careful not to get so caught up in the pandemic woes that we fail to have concern for the suffering of others. Jeremiah  the weeping prophet cried out: Is it nothing to you, all you who pass by? (Lamentations 1:12, NKJV).

Let us pray first for the Myanmar Church, for the pastors, priests, missionaries, and their families. I know many Christian leaders who are still there, still standing, and many pastors and priests who are still trying to help the needs of others. But what do you do when your people are attacked or scattered?

This is a spiritual battle that can be won only in prayer and fasting. The question is, do we have the fire in our bones? Do we grasp our vital intercessory role in this theater of terror? Or is Myanmar just another crisis in the news that we can skip over on our way to Starbucks?

Let us pray for the nation of Myanmar. Let us pray for the believers who have fled, and those who still stand. Let us pray for those who stand up as a witness for Christ. Let us pray for political leaders to stop the killing and persecution. Lastly, let us pray for men who have turned the world upside down to rise up and bring peace to that beautiful and troubled land.
OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  Contract talks between the Kellogg Co. and its 1,400 striking cereal plant workers are set to resume next week.

The Battle Creek, Michigan-based company said Tuesday that the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union that represents those workers agreed to return to the bargaining table starting next Tuesday. The workers have been on strike since Oct. 5.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  As the Gaza war raged and tensions surged across the Middle East last May, Instagram briefly banned the hashtag #AlAqsa, a reference to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalems Old City, a flash point in the conflict.

Facebook, which owns Instagram, later apologized, explaining its algorithms had mistaken the third-holiest site in Islam for the militant group Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigade, an armed offshoot of the secular Fatah party.

For many Arabic-speaking users, it was just the latest potent example of how the social media giant muzzles political speech in the region. Arabic is among the most common languages on Facebooks platforms, and the company issues frequent public apologies after similar botched content removals.

Now, internal company documents from the former Facebook product manager-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugen show the problems are far more systemic than just a few innocent mistakes, and that Facebook has understood the depth of these failings for years while doing little about it.

Such errors are not limited to Arabic. An examination of the files reveals that in some of the worlds most volatile regions, terrorist content and hate speech proliferate because the company remains short on moderators who speak local languages and understand cultural contexts. And its platforms have failed to develop artificial-intelligence solutions that can catch harmful content in different languages.

In countries like Afghanistan and Myanmar, these loopholes have allowed inflammatory language to flourish on the platform, while in Syria and the Palestinian territories, Facebook suppresses ordinary speech, imposing blanket bans on common words.

The root problem is that the platform was never built with the intention it would one day mediate the political speech of everyone in the world, said Eliza Campbell, director of the Middle East Institutes Cyber Program. But for the amount of political importance and resources that Facebook has, moderation is a bafflingly under-resourced project.

This story, along with others published Monday, is based on Haugens disclosures to the Securities and Exchange Commission, which were also provided to Congress in redacted form by her legal team. The redacted versions received by Congress were reviewed by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press. This follows similar reporting by The Wall Street Journal, sourced from the same documents.

In a statement to the AP, a Facebook spokesperson said that over the last two years the company has invested in recruiting more staff with local dialect and topic expertise to bolster its review capacity around the world.

But when it comes to Arabic content moderation, the company said, We still have more work to do. ... We conduct research to better understand this complexity and identify how we can improve."

In Myanmar, where Facebook-based misinformation has been linked repeatedly to ethnic and religious violence, the company acknowledged in its internal reports that it had failed to stop the spread of hate speech targeting the minority Rohingya Muslim population.

The Rohingyas persecution, which the U.S. has described as ethnic cleansing, led Facebook to publicly pledge in 2018 that it would recruit 100 native Myanmar language speakers to police its platforms. But the company never disclosed how many content moderators it ultimately hired or revealed which of the nation's many dialects they covered.

Despite Facebooks public promises and many internal reports on the problems, the rights group Global Witness said the companys recommendation algorithm continued to amplify army propaganda and other content that breaches the companys Myanmar policies following a military coup in February.

In India, the documents show Facebook employees debating last March whether it could clamp down on the fear mongering, anti-Muslim narratives that Prime Minister Narendra Modis far-right Hindu nationalist group, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, broadcasts on its platform.

In one document, the company notes that users linked to Modis party had created multiple accounts to supercharge the spread of Islamophobic content. Much of this content was never flagged or actioned, the research found, because Facebook lacked moderators and automated filters with knowledge of Hindi and Bengali.

Arabic poses particular challenges to Facebooks automated systems and human moderators, each of which struggles to understand spoken dialects unique to each country and region, their vocabularies salted with different historical influences and cultural contexts.

The Moroccan colloquial Arabic, for instance, includes French and Berber words, and is spoken with short vowels. Egyptian Arabic, on the other hand, includes some Turkish from the Ottoman conquest. Other dialects are closer to the official version found in the Quran. In some cases, these dialects are not mutually comprehensible, and there is no standard way of transcribing colloquial Arabic.

Facebook first developed a massive following in the Middle East during the 2011 Arab Spring uprisings, and users credited the platform with providing a rare opportunity for free expression and a critical source of news in a region where autocratic governments exert tight controls over both. But in recent years, that reputation has changed.

Scores of Palestinian journalists and activists have had their accounts deleted. Archives of the Syrian civil war have disappeared. And a vast vocabulary of everyday words have become off-limits to speakers of Arabic, Facebooks third-most common language with millions of users worldwide.

For Hassan Slaieh, a prominent journalist in the blockaded Gaza Strip, the first message felt like a punch to the gut. Your account has been permanently disabled for violating Facebooks Community Standards, the companys notification read. That was at the peak of the bloody 2014 Gaza war, following years of his news posts on violence between Israel and Hamas being flagged as content violations.

Within moments, he lost everything hed collected over six years: personal memories, stories of peoples lives in Gaza, photos of Israeli airstrikes pounding the enclave, not to mention 200,000 followers. The most recent Facebook takedown of his page last year came as less of a shock. It was the 17th time that he had to start from scratch.

He had tried to be clever. Like many Palestinians, he'd learned to avoid the typical Arabic words for martyr and prisoner, along with references to Israels military occupation. If he mentioned militant groups, hed add symbols or spaces between each letter.

Other users in the region have taken an increasingly savvy approach to tricking Facebooks algorithms, employing a centuries-old Arabic script that lacks the dots and marks that help readers differentiate between otherwise identical letters. The writing style, common before Arabic learning exploded with the spread of Islam, has circumvented hate speech censors on Facebooks Instagram app, according to the internal documents.

But Slaiehs tactics didnt make the cut. He believes Facebook banned him simply for doing his job. As a reporter in Gaza, he posts photos of Palestinian protesters wounded at the Israeli border, mothers weeping over their sons coffins, statements from the Gaza Strips militant Hamas rulers.

Criticism, satire and even simple mentions of groups on the companys Dangerous Individuals and Organizations list  a docket modeled on the U.S. government equivalent  are grounds for a takedown.

We were incorrectly enforcing counterterrorism content in Arabic," one document reads, noting the current system limits users from participating in political speech, impeding their right to freedom of expression.

The Facebook blacklist includes Gazas ruling Hamas party, as well as Hezbollah, the militant group that holds seats in Lebanons Parliament, along with many other groups representing wide swaths of people and territory across the Middle East, the internal documents show, resulting in what Facebook employees describe in the documents as widespread perceptions of censorship.

If you posted about militant activity without clearly condemning whats happening, we treated you like you supported it, said Mai el-Mahdy, a former Facebook employee who worked on Arabic content moderation until 2017.

In response to questions from the AP, Facebook said it consults independent experts to develop its moderation policies and goes to great lengths to ensure they are agnostic to religion, region, political outlook or ideology.

We know our systems are not perfect," it added.

The companys language gaps and biases have led to the widespread perception that its reviewers skew in favor of governments and against minority groups.

Former Facebook employees also say that various governments exert pressure on the company, threatening regulation and fines. Israel, a lucrative source of advertising revenue for Facebook, is the only country in the Mideast where Facebook operates a national office. Its public policy director previously advised former right-wing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Israeli security agencies and watchdogs monitor Facebook and bombard it with thousands of orders to take down Palestinian accounts and posts as they try to crack down on incitement.

They flood our system, completely overpowering it, said Ashraf Zeitoon, Facebooks former head of policy for the Middle East and North Africa region, who left in 2017. That forces the system to make mistakes in Israels favor. Nowhere else in the region had such a deep understanding of how Facebook works.

Facebook said in a statement that it fields takedown requests from governments no differently from those from rights organizations or community members, although it may restrict access to content based on local laws.

Any suggestion that we remove content solely under pressure from the Israeli government is completely inaccurate, it said.

Syrian journalists and activists reporting on the countrys opposition also have complained of censorship, with electronic armies supporting embattled President Bashar Assad aggressively flagging dissident content for removal.

Raed, a former reporter at the Aleppo Media Center, a group of antigovernment activists and citizen journalists in Syria, said Facebook erased most of his documentation of Syrian government shelling on neighborhoods and hospitals, citing graphic content.

Facebook always tells us we break the rules, but no one tells us what the rules are, he added, giving only his first name for fear of reprisals.

In Afghanistan, many users literally cannot understand Facebooks rules. According to an internal report in January, Facebook did not translate the sites hate speech and misinformation pages into Dari and Pashto, the two most common languages in Afghanistan, where English is not widely understood.

When Afghan users try to flag posts as hate speech, the drop-down menus appear only in English. So does the Community Standards page. The site also doesnt have a bank of hate speech terms, slurs and code words in Afghanistan used to moderate Dari and Pashto content, as is typical elsewhere. Without this local word bank, Facebook cant build the automated filters that catch the worst violations in the country.

When it came to looking into the abuse of domestic workers in the Middle East, internal Facebook documents acknowledged that engineers primarily focused on posts and messages written in English. The flagged-words list did not include Tagalog, the major language of the Philippines, where many of the regions housemaids and other domestic workers come from.

In much of the Arab world, the opposite is true  the company over-relies on artificial-intelligence filters that make mistakes, leading to a lot of false positives and a media backlash, one document reads. Largely unskilled human moderators, in over their heads, tend to passively field takedown requests instead of screening proactively.

Sophie Zhang, a former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower who worked at the company for nearly three years before being fired last year, said contractors in Facebooks Ireland office complained to her they had to depend on Google Translate because the company did not assign them content based on what languages they knew.

Facebook outsources most content moderation to giant companies that enlist workers far afield, from Casablanca, Morocco, to Essen, Germany. The firms don't sponsor work visas for the Arabic teams, limiting the pool to local hires in precarious conditions  mostly Moroccans who seem to have overstated their linguistic capabilities. They often get lost in the translation of Arabics 30-odd dialects, flagging inoffensive Arabic posts as terrorist content 77% of the time, one document said.

These reps should not be fielding content from non-Maghreb region, however right now it is commonplace, another document reads, referring to the region of North Africa that includes Morocco. The file goes on to say that the Casablanca office falsely claimed in a survey it could handle every dialect of Arabic. But in one case, reviewers incorrectly flagged a set of Egyptian dialect content 90% of the time, a report said.

Iraq ranks highest in the region for its reported volume of hate speech on Facebook. But among reviewers, knowledge of Iraqi dialect is close to non-existent, one document said.

Journalists are trying to expose human rights abuses, but we just get banned, said one Baghdad-based press freedom activist, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of reprisals. We understand Facebook tries to limit the influence of militias, but its not working.

Linguists described Facebooks system as flawed for a region with a vast diversity of colloquial dialects that Arabic speakers transcribe in different ways.

The stereotype that Arabic is one entity is a major problem, said Enam al-Wer, professor of Arabic linguistics at the University of Essex, citing the languages huge variations not only between countries but class, gender, religion and ethnicity.

Despite these problems, moderators are on the front lines of what makes Facebook a powerful arbiter of political expression in a tumultuous region.

Although the documents from Haugen predate this years Gaza war, episodes from that 11-day conflict show how little has been done to address the problems flagged in Facebooks own internal reports.

Activists in Gaza and the West Bank lost their ability to livestream. Whole archives of the conflict vanished from newsfeeds, a primary portal of information for many users. Influencers accustomed to tens of thousands of likes on their posts saw their outreach plummet when they posted about Palestinians.

This has restrained me and prevented me from feeling free to publish what I want for fear of losing my account, said Soliman Hijjy, a Gaza-based journalist whose aerials of the Mediterranean Sea garnered tens of thousands more views than his images of Israeli bombs  a common phenomenon when photos are flagged for violating community standards.

During the war, Palestinian advocates submitted hundreds of complaints to Facebook, often leading the company to concede error and reinstate posts and accounts.

In the internal documents, Facebook reported it had erred in nearly half of all Arabic language takedown requests submitted for appeal.

The repetition of false positives creates a huge drain of resources, it said.

In announcing the reversal of one such Palestinian post removal last month, Facebooks semi-independent oversight board urged an impartial investigation into the companys Arabic and Hebrew content moderation. It called for improvement in its broad terrorism blacklist to increase understanding of the exceptions for neutral discussion, condemnation and news reporting, according to the board's policy advisory statement.

Facebooks internal documents also stressed the need to enhance algorithms, enlist more Arab moderators from less-represented countries and restrict them to where they have appropriate dialect expertise.

With the size of the Arabic user base and potential severity of offline harm  it is surely of the highest importance to put more resources to the task to improving Arabic systems, said the report.

But the company also lamented that there is not one clear mitigation strategy.

Meanwhile, many across the Middle East worry the stakes of Facebooks failings are exceptionally high, with potential to widen long-standing inequality, chill civic activism and stoke violence in the region.

We told Facebook: Do you want people to convey their experiences on social platforms, or do you want to shut them down? said Husam Zomlot, the Palestinian envoy to the United Kingdom, who recently discussed Arabic content suppression with Facebook officials in London. If you take away peoples voices, the alternatives will be uglier.

___

Akram reported from Gaza City, Gaza Strip. Associated Press writers Sam McNeil in Beijing, Sheikh Saaliq in New Delhi and Barbara Ortutay in Oakland, California, contributed to this report.

___

See full coverage of the The Facebook Papers here: https://apnews.com/hub/the-facebook-papers
It was a week wherein oil prices hit another multiyear high but natural gas futures lost some steam.



On the news front, energy companies Schlumberger SLB, Halliburton HAL, Baker Hughes BKR, Kinder Morgan KMI and Valero Energy VLO reported September-quarter earnings.



Overall, it was a mixed week for the sector. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 2.6% to close at $83.76 per barrel, while natural gas prices fell 2.4% to end at $5.28 per million British thermal units (MMBtu). In particular, the oil market managed to maintain its forward momentum from the eight previous weeks.



Coming back to the week ended Oct 22, oil prices rose after a report from the Energy Information Administration ("EIA") showed draws in crude and fuel stockpiles. Of late, energy investors have been buoyed by the markets robust fundamentals and a supportive macro backdrop.



Crude supplies recently fell to their lowest levels since October 2018, with U.S. commercial stockpiles down more than 15% since mid-March. Taking Cushing as an indicator, the oil market has already tightened considerably. Stocks fell under 32 million barrels at the key storage hub last week, the lowest since October 2018. There is also a marked improvement in fuel demand on the back of rebounding road and airline travel. In fact, strong demand for gasoline has pushed inventories to the lowest level in nearly two years.



Meanwhile, natural gas finished down following a higher-than-expected increase in supplies. A bearish turn in weather forecasts also sparked off a pullback in the fuels price.

1. Schlumbergers third-quarter 2021 earnings of 36 cents per share (excluding charges and credits) came in line with the Zacks Consensus Estimate. The quarterly earnings were aided by a surge in stimulation activity in Argentina, stronger North American rig activity along with ramped up drilling operations at offshore and onshore international resources. This was offset by lower contributions related to Digital & Integration from Europe/CIS/Africa.



Despite the companys $42 million of severance payments through the September quarter, the oilfield service behemoth generated free cash flow of $671 million. Capital expenditures in the quarter were recorded at $273 million. As of Sep 30, 2021, the Zacks Rank #2 (Buy) Schlumberger had approximately $2.9 billion in cash and short-term investments. It had long-term debt of $14.4 billion at third quarter-end, representing a debt to capitalization of almost 53%.



You can see the complete list of todays Zacks #1 Rank stocks here.



Fuel demand has improved significantly, so has oil price, thanks to the rolling out of coronavirus vaccines at a massive scale. Schlumberger expects this trend to continue for the next few years, which will drive upstream investment, especially in international resources. Being a leading player in the oilfield service space, the company expects to capitalize on this positive trend. (Schlumberger Q3 Earnings Match Estimates, Revenues Miss)



2. Smaller rival Halliburton also reported in-line third-quarter earnings on the back of an improved year-over-year revenue contribution from North America activities, partially offset by a lower-than-expected operating income from the Completion and Production, and the Drilling and Evaluation segments. The company reported earnings of 28 cents per share, matching the Zacks Consensus Estimate.



The worlds biggest provider of hydraulic fracking noted that its completion and production division achieved decent mid-teens profits while its drilling and evaluation division sustained their steady progress. According to Halliburton, a multi-year upcycle is in the works. Increased demand for its services, both globally and in North America, is driven by a scarcity of structural global commodities. Halliburton is seen to be well-positioned in both areas to benefit from the strengthening economy.



The company's value offering, unique exposure to both worldwide and the North American markets, and innovative technology across an integrated services portfolio reinforce its long-term competitive edge, resulting in a high free cash flow and industry-leading returns. (Halliburton Q3 Earnings Match Estimates, Sales Miss)



3 Baker Hughes  the third major provider of technical products and services to drillers of oil and gas wells  reported third-quarter 2021 adjusted earnings of 16 cents per share, missing the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 22 cents. The lower-than-expected results were caused by a decline in cost productivity in Digital Solutions. This was partly offset by higher contributions from the Turbomachinery & Process Solutions business unit.



As of Sep 30, 2021, the company had cash and cash equivalents of $3.9 billion. At the end of the third quarter, it had long-term debt of $6.7 billion, implying a debt to capitalization of 28.4%. Baker Hughes net capital expenditure for the third quarter totaled $111 million.



The company generated positive free cash flow of $305 million in the reported quarter compared with $52 million in the year-ago period. As far as outlook is concerned, Baker Hughes expects continued recovery in the global economy in the remainder of this year and next year. Thus, demand for oil and natural will continue to ramp up, brightening the outlook for oilfield services. (Baker Hughes Q3 Earnings & Revenues Miss Estimates)



4. Energy infrastructure provider Kinder Morgan posted third-quarter 2021 adjusted earnings per share of 22 cents, lower than the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 24 cents. The bottom line, however, increased from the year-ago profit of 21 cents. The companys earnings miss could be attributed to Fayetteville Express Pipelines lower contributions. A rebound in fuel demand, however, attributed to year-over-year higher earnings and strong revenues.



As of Sep 30, 2021, Kinder Morgan reported $102 million in cash and cash equivalents. The companys long-term debt amounted to $29 billion at quarter-end, resulting in a debt to capitalization of 50.7%.



The company continues to project DCF and adjusted EBITDA for this year at $5.4 billion and $7.9 billion, respectively. The midstream firm anticipates its 2021 net income at $1.7 billion. For this year, the midstream player expects to announce a dividend payout of $1.08 per share, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 3%. (Kinder Morgan Q3 Earnings Miss Estimates, Revenues Beat)



5. Refining giant Valero Energy reported third-quarter 2021 adjusted earnings of $1.22 per share, turning around from a loss of $1.16 in the year-ago period. The bottom line also beat the Zacks Consensus Estimate of 94 cents per share. The strong quarterly results were supported by increased refinery throughput volumes and higher refining margin. A massive recovery in gasoline demand helped the company.



For the quarter, refining throughput volumes were 2,864 thousand barrels per day (MBbls/d), up from 2,526 MBbls/d in third-quarter 2020. Meanwhile, refining margin per barrel of throughput increased to $9.85 from the year-ago level of $4.10.



At quarter-end, Valero had cash and cash equivalents of $3.5 billion, down from the second-quarter level of $3.6 billion. As of Sep 30, 2021, it had total debt and finance lease obligations of $14.2 billion, down from $14.7 billion at the June-quarter end. Valero has a debt to capitalization of 44.9%. (Valero Q3 Earnings, Revenues Beat on Refinery Throughput)

Price Performance

The following table shows the price movement of some major oil and gas players over the past week and during the last six months.



Company Last Week Last 6 Months

XOM +0.8% +12.8%

CVX +2.9% +10%

COP +2.1% +50%

OXY +7.2% +33.1%

SLB -0.3% +33.4%

RIG -2.7% +30.6%

VLO +3% +16.8%

MPC +1.1% +26.5%



The Energy Select Sector SPDR  a popular way to track energy companies  was up 1.1% last week. The best performer was Houston-TX based biggie Occidental Petroleum OXY whose stock climbed 7.2%.



Over the past six months, the sector tracker has increased 20.8%. Upstream biggie ConocoPhillips COP was the major gainer during the period, experiencing a 50% price appreciation.

Whats Next in the Energy World?

As the global oil consumption outlook strengthens amid tightening fundamentals, market participants will be closely tracking the regular releases to watch for signs that could further validate the upward momentum. In this context, the U.S. governments statistics on oil and natural gas  one of the few solid indicators that come out regularly  will be on energy traders' radar. Data on rig count from the oilfield service firm Baker Hughes, which is a pointer to trends in U.S. crude production, is closely followed too. News related to coronavirus vaccine approval/rollout/distribution will be of utmost importance. Finally, there will be 2021 Q3 earnings, with a host of Big Oil companies coming up with quarterly results.

More Stock News: This Is Bigger than the iPhone!

It could become the mother of all technological revolutions. Apple sold a mere 1 billion iPhones in 10 years but a new breakthrough is expected to generate more than 77 billion devices by 2025, creating a $1.3 trillion market.

Zacks has just released a Special Report that spotlights this fast-emerging phenomenon and 4 tickers for taking advantage of it. If you don't buy now, you may kick yourself in 2022.

Want the latest recommendations from Zacks Investment Research? Today, you can download 7 Best Stocks for the Next 30 Days. Click to get this free report



Schlumberger Limited (SLB): Free Stock Analysis Report



Halliburton Company (HAL): Free Stock Analysis Report



ConocoPhillips (COP): Free Stock Analysis Report



Occidental Petroleum Corporation (OXY): Free Stock Analysis Report



Valero Energy Corporation (VLO): Free Stock Analysis Report



Kinder Morgan, Inc. (KMI): Free Stock Analysis Report



Baker Hughes Company (BKR): Free Stock Analysis Report



To read this article on Zacks.com click here.



Zacks Investment Research

Copyright 2021 Entrepreneur.com Inc., All rights reserved
DALLAS (AP) _ Texas Instruments Inc. (TXN) on Tuesday reported third-quarter earnings of $1.95 billion.

On a per-share basis, the Dallas-based company said it had profit of $2.07.

The results surpassed Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of 10 analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for earnings of $2.06 per share.

The chipmaker posted revenue of $4.64 billion in the period, falling short of Street forecasts. Eight analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $4.69 billion.

For the current quarter ending in December, Texas Instruments said it expects revenue in the range of $4.22 billion to $4.58 billion. Analysts surveyed by Zacks had expected revenue of $4.45 billion.

_____

This story was generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on TXN at https://www.zacks.com/ap/TXN
HIGHLANDS RANCH, Colo. (AP) _ UDR Inc. (UDR) on Tuesday reported a key measure of profitability in its third quarter. The results met Wall Street expectations.

The Highlands Ranch, Colorado-based real estate investment trust said it had funds from operations of $167.4 million, or 51 cents per share, in the period.
ORANGE  A Branford-based developer has acquired a 4.17-acre vacant property on Carlson Road that once was home to Peak Electronics, a company that made computer circuit boards, before the business was dissolved in 2009.

Michael Massimino, a Branford developer, bought the 51 Carlson Road parcel for $825,000, according to town land records and Frank Hird, a broker with with OR&L Commercial, which also is in Branford.

OR&L represented the seller, Fifty-One LLC and now is representing Massimino, who is marketing the property, according to Hird.

The commercially zoned property is adjacent to a new Amazon warehouse and behind a Walgreens pharmacy at 54 Boston Post Road.

Hird said the price reflects a variety of factors, including a lack of frontage on Boston Post Road, the fact that deal was done as a cash sale and the buyer acting quickly.

He said there already has been some interest in the property, and that Massimino is offering it as a build-to-suit property or a land-lease arrangement. The property is located directly adjacent to two Amazon warehouses and surrounded by many national retailers.

Our client is open to any ideas, Hird said. We have fielded quite a few calls already. Its a terrific time, a huge bonus, to have any parcel of commercial property that is located anywhere in southern Connecticut.

Massimino was not immediately available for comment.

Orange First Selectman James Zeoli said the property at one time was the subject of an environmental cleanup, but added he was uncertain as to when the cleanup was completed.

Hird said the cleanup was completed last year, but that it took until earlier this year for state environmental officials to sign off on it.

Officials with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection began investigating pollution at the site in December 1998, but remediation wasnt started under September 2015, according to DEEP documents.

Before Massimino bought the property, the land was owned by Fifty-One LLC. Information from the Secretary of the States Commercial Records Division shows the LLC is based in Oklahoma City.

Municipal real estate records have the propertys owner listed as National Loan Investors, a limited partnership-based at the same address as Fifty-One LLC.

luther.turmelle@hearstmediact.com
Click here to read the full article.

has had a rough couple of months.

It started in early September when The Wall Street Journal began publishing a series of reports based on tens of thousands of internal documents a whistle-blower named Frances Haugen had turned over to the paper. The Facebook Files, as the stories were dubbed, revealed the extent to which the company was aware of the damage its platforms were doing to everything from the push to get Americans vaccinated to the self-esteem of teenage girls. Misinformation was spreading. Hate speech was rampant. People were even using Facebook to sell human organs. The leaked documents make clear that the company didnt care much to stop it and, in some cases, that it deliberately covered up damning internal research laying bare just how toxic the social network had become.

Every day our teams have to balance protecting the right of billions of people to express themselves openly with the need to keep our platform a safe and positive place, Facebook said after Haugen appeared on 60 Minutes earlier this month. We continue to make significant improvements to tackle the spread of misinformation and harmful content. To suggest we encourage bad content and do nothing is just not true.

On Sunday, Ben Smith of The New York Times reported that days after Haugen appeared on 60 Minutes, she agreed to share the trove of documents with 17 other news outlets, provided they agreed to hold any stories until a mutually agreed-upon date. These outlets spent the ensuing weeks not only combing through the leaked information, but by conducting their own reporting into Facebooks practices. The embargo has now been lifted, and on Monday the internet exploded with bombshell stories about the social media behemoth, many of them based on the documents Haugen provided.

Its been a little overwhelming. Heres what you may have missed:

1. Facebook ignored internal complaints about the spread of posts with political misinformation leading up to the 2020 election

According to a New York Times report published on Friday, freshly surfaced documents show that Facebook has repeatedly ignored internal complaints about political posts packed with misinformation and conspiracy theories from before and after the 2016 election. While Facebook has publicly celebrated itself for policing the platform in protection of users, whistleblowers allege that a lot was swept under the rug as executives at the company turned a blind eye  presumably, they say, with the goals of letting misinformation spread and keeping site traffic high.

A few days before Election Day last November, one employee sounded an internal alarm to let team members know that comments with the most incendiary election misinformation were being amplified to appear at the top of comment threads, according to the Times. Then, on November 9th, a Facebook data scientist messaged colleagues with an eyebrow-raising stat: 10 percent of the U.S. users posting political content were claiming that Joe Bidens win was fraudulent and that the process was rigged to keep Donald Trump from returning to office. Additionally, some of these posts seemed to aim to incite violence.

2. Facebook didnt do enough to tamp down Stop the Steal groups ahead of the insurrection: Enforcement was piecemeal

After Trump-supporting rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol on January 6th, some employees complained about Facebook being ill-prepared to react with the necessary expediency. The New York Times recently reported that several messages from employees cited dozens of Stop the Steal groups pushing lies about the election that were active up until the insurrection. Ive always felt that on the balance my work has been meaningful and helpful to the world at large, one message read. But, honestly, this is a really dark day for me here.

An internal review in March assessing the companys handling of Stop the Steal groups found that enforcement was piecemeal.

3. Facebook watched as QAnon conspiracy theories mushroomed

Long before the election, employees noticed  and raised red flags over  the dangers of radicalization on Facebook, documents reportedly say, and years went by without change substantial enough to slow the snowball effect. In the summer of 2019, one of the companys researchers created a fake account for an imaginary conservative woman residing in North Carolina, named Carol Smith, NBC News reported last week. The fictitious 41-year-olds profile had no photo but plenty of interests, including Fox News, parenting, and Christianity. Within days, Facebook began recommending QAnon-related pages to Smith. In less than a month, her feed became a constant flow of misleading, polarizing and low-quality content, the researcher wrote, according to the researcher, who left Facebook altogether about a year after creating the account  just around the time that Facebook started noticeably regulating and restricted the spread of QAnon content.

4. Facebook routinely makes exceptions for powerful actors when enforcing content policy

Facebook routinely makes exceptions for powerful actors when enforcing content policy, a data scientist wrote in documents created for a Facebook presentation, which Politico reported on Monday. This analyst also pointed out that final calls about content policy are routinely made by senior executives  sometimes Mark Zuckerberg. They added that its unclear why executives would be consulted and questioned if there was an unwritten aspect to our policies, namely to protect sensitive constituencies. The analyst referenced many communications with colleagues on Facebooks content policy team, which is based in Washington, D.C., who feel pressure to ensure their recommendations align with the interests of policymakers.

According to information obtained by Politico, the lobbying and government relations team overseen by former Republican operative Joel Kaplan regularly weighs in on comms-related issues when handling right-wing figures and ads from former President Donald Trump, as well as the aftermath of the George Floyd protests in June 2020. Facebook claims that Kaplans group is just one of many that Facebook consults in making content decisions.

5. Mark Zuckerberg bowed to Vietnams censorship demands

The Washington Post reported on Monday that in 2020 Mark Zuckerberg agreed to clamp down on rhetoric critical of the Vietnamese government after the Communist Party in charge of the country asked him to. If he didnt comply, Facebook risked losing the estimated $1 billion in revenue generated by the companys presence in the Southeast Asian nation. Facebooks own transparency report revealed the impact of the decision. The company blocked 834 posts by Vietnamese users in the first half of 2020, compared with more than 2,200 in the second half.

Zuckerberg reportedly defended the decision by arguing that depriving the Vietnamese people of Facebook entirely would be worse for free speech than censoring them. But according to the advocates and activists interviewed by the Post, Facebook gave the government near-total control over the platform.

6. Documents show Facebook didnt do much to stop the spread of violent rhetoric around the Ethiopian civil war

For over a year, Ethiopia has been suffering through a turbulent civil war, and Facebooks neglect of the African nation has allegedly been making matters worse. Documents reviewed by CNN show that the company has failed to equip local teams with the necessary staffing-related resources to navigate such a fragile period, despite multiple instances of employees alerting the company to a variety of foreign organizations and armed groups spreading hate and violence-inciting content. When Haugen came forward, she specifically called out how badly Facebook is handling places like Ethiopia as one of her reasons for doing so, adding that the raw version [of Facebook] roaming wild in most of the world doesnt have any of the things [related to online safety and curation] that make it kind of palatable in the United States and expressing fear for a lot of lives on the line.

Facebook has publicly highlighted its Ethiopia issues as a problem and priority, but the company doesnt seem to be moving fast enough or with strong-enough strategies. While, for one example, Facebook gatekeepers have recommended the takedown of official accounts supporting the Fano militia  a group at the center of many controversies including killings, lootings, and rape, according to CNN  other employees say individuals promoting Fano messaging are still barreling through.

In the summer of 2020, one employee shared a report internally that found significant gaps in how Facebook monitors Ethiopian goings-on, detects hate speech, and flags misinformation. Still, Haugen argues that Facebook has only offered even slight language support in two of the countrys many native languages, as CNN reported. One researcher, Berhan Taye, penned an open letter begging Facebook to properly staff its local team with enough culturally knowledgeable people to properly respond to hours of triggering footage created by the areas millions of daily users. Taye said little has changed in over a year.

7. Apple almost booted Facebook and Instagram from the App Store because it wasnt doing enough to stop human trafficking in the Middle East

Facebook was being used to buy and sell maids in the Middle East who were then abused, a human trafficking violation flagged by employees that Facebook didnt do much to correct. The Wall Street Journal reported on the issue in September, and the Associated Press followed it up with a new report on Monday. It got so bad, the outlets noted, that Apple threatened to pull Facebook and Instagram from the App Store. Facebook admitted in internal documents that it was under-enforcing on confirmed abusive activity, and the AP notes that it still isnt hard to find listings selling women for domestic help on the platform.

8. Facebook allowed Arabic hate content to spread across its platforms  a lot

At the end of 2020, Facebook realized it had a very real algorithm problem: Only 40 percent of Arabic hate content was being detected proactively. It was even worse on Instagram, which detected only six percent despite having 95 percent more actioned hate speech violations than Facebook in the Middle East and North America (MENA), according to an internal report created by a Facebook employee. This goes beyond posts and stretches into online advertisements as well, according to the report, which cites a lot of harmful ads targeted at women and the LGBTQ community. These ads, however, were rarely flagged by Facebook in MENA territories. Meanwhile, Facebook was incorrectly detecting terrorist content across the region, resulting in the deletion of non-violent Arabic content 77 percent of the time, according to a Politico report published Monday.

9. Iraqi militias have been posting child nudity on rivals Facebook pages

Some supporters of the Sunni and Shia militias have been posting graphic images like that of child nudity on their rivals Facebook pages with the goal of getting said adversaries accounts shut down, Politico reported on Monday. In another post reviewed by Politico, Islamic State fighters used a photo of Mark Zuckerberg to help a post applauding the killing of 13 Iraqi soldiers fly under the companys radar. Its unclear if Facebook has done anything to respond to these specific incidents.

10. Facebook has been allowing anti-Muslim hate content to spread throughout India

When religious protests flooded India, Facebooks biggest market, in late 2019, inflammatory content primarily targeting Muslims on Facebook surged by 300 percent, The Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday. Documents show that Facebook researchers recommended the company remove one of two Hindu nationalist groups for posting hateful, anti-Muslim content  and that Facebook didnt listen. (The other wasnt deemed dangerous enough for removal, due to political sensitivities, despite things like misinformation claiming the Quran calls for men to rape their female family members. Facebook rep Andy Stone responded to the Journal with a statement about the companys careful, rigorous, and multidisciplinary banning processes.

Much like Ethiopian researchers, Indian colleagues asked for more resources to detect and police hate-spreading users, according to the Journal, which cited another report wherein researchers flagged a different Hindu nationalist organization, the Bajrang Dal, for allegedly using the Facebook-owned WhatsApp to organize and incite violence. A spokesperson for the Bajrang Dal denied these claims to the Journal, before asking If they say we have broken the rules, why havent they removed us?

Politico reported Monday on documents from an internal Facebook presentation, wherein one data scientist referenced an Indian politician who regularly posted hate speech but was exempted by the Indian Public Policy team from normal punishment explicitly for political considerations. A Facebook spokesperson would only goes as far as saying that this wasnt the sole factor, the analyst wrote.
Republicans have long been trying to thread the needle of defending the Jan. 6 rally to protest the 2020 election results while trying to wash their hands of any culpability for the violent riot at the Capitol that followed. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) isnt splitting hairs. During an appearance on Steve Bannons War Room podcast on Tuesday, Greene cited the Declaration of Independence to defend the actual insurrection, the one in which hundreds of Trump supporters broke into the Capitol, resulting in five deaths and dozens of injuries.

Jan. 6 was just a riot, Greene said, implying the violent attempt to overthrow American democracy paled in significance to the lies of BlueAnon and the media, which she said would do anything to cause her to be killed. Never mind the actual lies about the 2020 election results that led to the storming of the Capitol that put the lives of her colleagues in danger on Jan. 6.

If you think about what our Declaration of Independence says, it says to overthrow tyrants, Greene continued in defense of the riot. There is a clear difference between Jan. 6 and the Marxist, Communist revolution, the Antifa, BLM, Democrat ground troops waged on the American people in 2020.

Marjorie Taylor Greene says "January 6 was just a riot at the Capitol" and media outlets "would do anything to cause someone like me to be killed." pic.twitter.com/YSUqRAnEy4  David Edwards (@DavidEdwards) October 26, 2021

Greenes comments come two days after Rolling Stone published an explosive report linking her and a handful of other Trump-supporting Republicans to the planning of the events of Jan. 6 that turned violent. Greenes communication director wrote in an email to Rolling Stone that Greene and her staff were focused on the Congressional election objection on the House floor and had nothing to do with planning of any protest.

Her office did not decry the riot, though, which isnt surprising considering Greene has suggested in the past that violence may be necessary to stop the Biden administration. You cant allow it to just transfer power peacefully like Joe Biden wants, and allow him to become our president, Greene said before taking office.

"You can't allow it to just transfer power 'peacefully' like Joe Biden wants, and allow him to become our president, Marjorie Taylor Greene said. #ArrestGreene pic.twitter.com/nbNR1kzZeN  Scott Dworkin (@funder) October 25, 2021

Greene has also been defending the Capitol rioters for months, saying theyve been abused by the government and attempting to hold a press conference to advocate for them in July (the press conference was disrupted by protesters). Two months later, Rep. Sean Maloney (D-N.Y.) told MSNBC that he was with Greene while the rioters were storming the Capitol, and that she, in particular, was gleeful at what was taking place outside the building.

They had been at the White House, I believe, the day before  talking about what was going to happen, Maloney added. I mean, its not really a mystery when Mo Brooks is down at the rally, whipping up the crowd and pointing them toward the Capitol, I believe, with a bulletproof vest on  a lot of this is right out there in the open.

Brooks was also named in Rolling Stones report about the Republican members of Congress who  or whose staff  communicated with Jan. 6 organizers. The fact that Brooks spoke at the rally at the Ellipse  and that, as Maloney noted, he was reportedly wearing body armor  would seem to suggest he had something to do with the planning, as would the fact that far-right organizer Ali Alexander said explicitly that Brooks and two other representatives schemed together to coordinate what was going to happen on Jan. 6.

But Brooks responded to Rolling Stones report by telling AL.com on Monday that he had nothing to do with the planning of the event, and only decided to appear at the Jan. 6 rally the day prior, after the White House asked him to. Brooks did acknowledge that his staff may have communicated with organizers. Quite frankly, Id be proud of them if they did help organize a First Amendment rally to protest voter fraud and election theft, he said.
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What kind of person signs up for an antigovernment militia with a government-issued email address? The answer is surprising, revealing  and, as one extremism expert puts it, really alarming.

The purported membership of the Oath Keeper membership rolls  obtained in a hack and leaked to the transparency group Distributed Denial of Secrets  include more than 38,000 names. The vast majority of alleged members are enrolled in a way that leaves them somewhat anonymous: Their registrations are associated with a gmail or other private email address.

But a review by Rolling Stone identified nearly 40 memberships linked to public-sector work emails, from domains like nasa.gov, dmv.virginia.gov, and city.pittsburgh.pa.us. Rolling Stone then matched these individuals to public-source information  from LinkedIn accounts, government websites, public salary databases, etc.  to compile a list of everyday Americans who appear to have been dues paying members of the notorious right-wing organization.

Think of them as the Oath Keepers next door. Their ranks include more than a handful of law enforcement officers. But, in full, they cut across a broader cross section of society, including employees of the Treasury Department, Los Alamos National Laboratory, the Veterans Administration, as well as local government workers ranging from fire fighters to auto mechanics to public school employees.

This is an organization that recruits from law enforcement and military. That is kind of their cause, says Alex Friedfeld, an investigative researcher at the Center on Extremism, housed at the Anti-Defamation League. Yet civilians are signing up  not folks who you would normally think would be part of the target demographic. What this shows, he says, is how the Oath Keeper ideology, and the broader militia-movement ideology, has permeated through society.

Making exceptions for individuals who hold, or have held, high-ranking jobs of public trust, Rolling Stone is not individually identifying these purported Oath Keepers by name. But these records underscore how the militia group has gone mainstream.

The Oath Keepers ideology is steeped in conspiracy theories. The militia asks its members to defend America from federal tyranny, and swear to defy unconstitutional orders, which they imagine with feverish foresight. (For example: We will NOT obey any order to blockade American cities, thus turning them into giant concentration camps.) Membership in the organization is not illegal. But militia activities by Oath Keeper members have long been suspect. The Oath Keepers are infamous for vigilantism  including showing up toting guns in moments of social unrest. More than 20 Oath Keepers have been charged for participating in the siege of the U.S. Capitol on January 6th that sought to block President Joe Biden from assuming office.

The Oath Keepers organization has not responded to questions about the hack or its data. The leaked records, which date back as far as 2009, do not indicate which memberships are current  although some individuals are listed as life members. (Oath Keeper memberships today cost $50 a year, or $1,000 for life.) The leaked rolls have been reported on by media outlets including USAToday, ProPublica and Oregon Public Broadcasting, as well as by Rolling Stone. This reporting has identified dozens of members of the military and law enforcement, as well as Republicans in elected office, as Oath Keeper members. A number of these individuals have gone on record confirming their affiliations.

At least one individual who appears to have signed up for the Oath Keepers using his public work credentials made no secret of his ideology. Robin Cole is the former Sheriff of Pine County Minnesota, north of Minneapolis. The leaked records show him joining in 2013, when he was sheriff  about the same time he sent an open letter to constituents pledging not to enforce any new federal or state gun restrictions, decrying them as an erosion of freedom and a moral sin. Reached by telephone, Cole confirmed his identity but hung up after this reporter began asking about his inclusion on the alleged Oath Keeper rolls. The Pine County Sheriffs Department  reached on the telephone number listed with Coles apparent membership  declined to comment for this story.

Several less-high ranking officers also appeared to sign up for the Oath Keepers with their government-issue email addresses. They include an officer in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, police department; a recently retired police detective from Wyoming; a former member of the sheriffs department from Hamilton County, Tennessee; and a former member of the Texas State Guard, who noted on his purported membership that he was, Extremely worried about the current state of government and the disdain for the US Constitution and general US and WORLD Rule of LAW.

Leaving aside law enforcement members, the list becomes professionally diverse. There are current and former firefighters from Seattle; Columbus, Ohio; Huntsville, Alabama; and Lexington, Kentucky. The list includes a supervisor with the federal Department of Homeland Security, and a county-level homeland security director in Tennessee.

The other federal employees on the purported Oath Keeper rolls are a grab bag. They include a research engineer at the Los Alamos National Laboratory, a communications professional from NASA, an FAA air traffic systems specialist from Arizona, a staff member at the Treasurys Department of Public Debt in West Virginia, a physician at the Veterans Administration in Alabama, and a retired Air Marshall from Las Vegas.

State workers are similarly eclectic  including a supervisor at Californias Department of Water Resources, an assistant supervisor in the Kentucky Department of Corrections, an instructor at a state rehabilitation center in Virginia, and a criminal investigator with the Louisiana Department of Justice.

At the local level, the purported Oath Keeper list includes a school resource officer from central Indiana; individuals with school-district emails from central North Carolina and the Florida panhandle; a former recreation services employee from Wasilla, Alaska; an auto mechanic in Cincinnati, Ohio; a superintendent of solid waste management in Maryland, and civilian employees in the police departments of Huntsville, Alabama, and Washington D.C.

Rolling Stone emailed each of the public employees at their work addresses seeking comment. Nobody wrote back. (A few are now defunct and could not be delivered.)

Friedfeld, the extremism investigator, says the Oath Keepers recruiting rhetoric sometimes draws in people with a limited understanding of the groups militant M.O. On the surface, the way these guys talk of patriotism and constitutionality, can seem reasonable, he says. And there are some people, Friedfeld adds, who sign up initially and then learn a little bit more about whats actually happening and go, Oh, no. Im out.

One prominent Texas public employee, contacted by Rolling Stone, cant figure out how he ended up on the alleged Oath Keeper rolls in the first place. The state comptrollers office has a criminal division that investigates tax fraud. Institutionally pro-government, its mission is to ensure that Texas isnt cheated out of lawful revenue. Jim Harris, now the criminal divisions Chief of Police, appears on the leaked membership list as having joined in 2013, using an email with the bureaus internet domain at the time, cpa.state.tx.us.

Harris didnt respond directly to Rolling Stone, but Chris Bryan, a spokesperson for the comptrollers office, says Harris denies participating in the group, or ever paying dues: Chief Harris is not a member of the organization, and doesnt recall ever being a member of the organization, Bryan says, adding: His position is that he may have put his email address on a form at some point 10 years ago, but has never been a member of the organization.

Yet many other Americans appear to join the Oath Keepers with their eyes wide open. The NASA employee, for example, added a note about how he might be useful to the militia, bragging of: Firearms training, general preparedness, wilderness first aid [and] general combat training. The Pittsburgh police officer appended a note highlighting his experience as a firearms instructor, and adding that he would spread the word to my students.

Its really alarming, Freidfeld says. Seemingly ordinary people are signing up for the Oath Keepers because they think that tyranny is coming. Theyve adopted a conspiratorial worldview, he says, that the federal government has been co-opted by forces that are planning to do bad things  to them or their family or their communities.

These folks want to stand up, Friedfeld adds, but they dont see any avenues for action in politics, community organizing, or other facets of civil life. They think the solution is joining with this militant group  to protect their way of life.
Youll catch glimpses of it in an abundance of memorable San Francisco-set films.

A Victorian perched on the corner of a quiet intersection in a psychological thriller. At the top of a steep hill overlooking the city skyline in a frenzied car chase scene. Inside a cozy cafe fit for a romantic comedy.

While Potrero Hill might be a bit of an unlikely choice as far as location scouting goes, its easy to understand why the neighborhood has become a star in its own right  and a popular choice for Hollywood filmmakers over the years, regardless of whether the movie is actually set in Potrero Hill or not.

Productions can capture a residential area with a magnificent skyline in the background, combined with our very steep hills, all in one shot, said Susannah Robbins, executive director of the San Francisco Film Commission. Its a visual feast to directors to be able to combine those three elements through a camera lens.

Peter Linenthal, director of the Potrero Hill Archives Project, couldnt deny the neighborhoods allure either. Filmmakers like Potrero Hills SF views and relatively uncrowded streets, he said.

At the same time, Linenthal noted the striking abnormalities of life in San Francisco captured on film. His organization is headquartered at 298 Missouri St., where 1987's Burglar starring Whoopi Goldberg was filmed, followed by 2001's Sweet November with Keanu Reeves and Charlize Theron and 2018's Ant-Man and the Wasp.

What strikes me is the unreality of SF real estate in movies: Charlizes character would not have been able to afford such a large SF apartment. Ditto with Paul Rudd as a single dad in Ant-Man, he said.

Its true that North Beach has its own claim to San Francisco movie fame, but this month, we decided to feature eight of Potrero Hills most memorable scenes captured on the big screen. See where Roger Moores James Bond knocked over a gas station sign during an iconic firetruck chase and Keanu Reeves fell for Charlize Theron.

1. 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage' (2021)

Exterior shots of the Tenderloin and Grace Cathedral were captured in this sequel to Marvels blockbuster franchise that was filmed in February 2020, but one popular Potrero Hill spot also stood in for police station scenes: Anchor Brewing Company on 1705 Mariposa St.

A spokesperson for the brewery said the surrounding Mariposa and De Haro streets were shut down to accommodate for stunt work, including a scene with stunt doubles simulating Venom as he bursts through a wall on the third floor to escape prison. He then lands on an SFPD cruiser, resulting in a small explosion.

"We had a good crowd of our neighbors on site for filming, and there was lots of excitement and curiosity in the air," the spokesperson told SFGATE, adding that the "Venom" cast and crew utilized Anchor's Public Taps for pre-production staging, talent trailers and craft services. "Many of the crew also enjoyed a pint or two of their favorite Anchor brews upon wrapping."

It wasn't the first time a production crew had taken over the brewery: Arnold Schwarzenegger was in an episode of "The Streets of San Francisco" that was filmed there and aired in 1977.

"It was very cool to see some 'movie magic' firsthand," the spokesperson said.

Starring Tom Hardy as the titular villain/protagonist, "Venom: Let There Be Carnage" follows his everyday persona, a San Francisco journalist named Eddie Brock, who is writing a profile on serial killer Cletus Kasady (Woody Harrelson). Brock frequently visits Kasady in San Quentin State Prison for interviews as his death penalty sentence looms, and during their last conversation, Kasady bites Brock, causing Kasady to transform into another supervillain, Carnage.

2. 'Vegas in Space' (1991)

Barbarella meets Mystery Science Theater 3000 in this campy cult classic with an all-drag cast. Director and member of the legendary San Francisco drag troupe Sluts-A-Go-Go Phillip R. Ford was still a film student at San Francisco State University when he co-wrote the screenplay with drag icons Miss X, Doris Fish and Tippi, who would also star in the film as a band of intergalactic soldiers who undergo a drag transformation to infiltrate a planet of all women and secure the rare gems hidden there to save the universe. Shortly prior to the world premiere of Vegas in Space, Fish and Tippi would die of illnesses related to AIDS, but the film has gone on to be remembered as a landmark in queer cinema, with reunions and drag tribute performances hosted by Peaches Christ, filmmaker and Dragula writer Michael Varrati and Frameline Film Festival at the Clay and Victoria theaters.

Laden with kitschy stop-motion sequences and wry humor, Vegas in Space'' was largely shot inside Fishs Victorian apartment at 422 Oak St. in 1983. However, the climactic final scene in the lair of the villainous Queen Veneer was shot at The Farm, a commune and performance space under Highway 101 at Potrero Avenue and Cesar Chavez Boulevard that ended with an eviction in 1987. Large sheets of iridescent plastic cellophane draped around the venue create[d] the illusion of an ice palace of sorts, Ford wrote in a blog dedicated to the making of the film, which is truly B-horror at its best.

This was shot in black and white and is my favorite sequence in the finished film, wrote Ford.

3. 'Bullitt' (1968)

Starring Steve McQueen, this neo-action thriller based on the 1963 novel Mute Witness follows SFPD detective Lt. Frank Bullitt (Steve McQueen) as his team keeps close tabs on Chicago mobster Johnny Ross. The production crew spent three months filming throughout the streets of San Francisco, but its the infamous car chase scene that makes this movie memorable.

That said, most locals will find the path of the Mustang and Charger rather disorienting as they jump from Bernal Heights to Potrero Hill, racing along 20th and Kansas to 20th and Rhode Island before suddenly materializing in Russian Hill and later North Beach. In any case, the resulting sequence proved entrancing for viewers, and editor Frank P. Keller would win an Academy Award for his efforts.

4. 'Pacific Heights' (1990)

This movie was featured on Bravos 100 Scariest Movie Moments and today reads as a bit of a tongue-in-cheek portrayal of the power dynamic between landlord and tenant. But dont let the title fool you: The homes exterior was actually shot in Potrero Hill, and it's still perched on the corner of 19th and Texas Street.

Filming it in Pacific Heights would have been a nightmare because of all the crazy things we did in that movie, former location manager Laurie Noll, who also worked on The Princess Diaries, told SFGATE. (I wont spoil too much, but live cockroaches are involved.)

Described as the first eviction thriller by New York Times film critic Janet Maslin upon its release, this psychological horror film stars Melanie Griffith and Matthew Modine as a privileged young couple who decide to purchase their dream Victorian abode and move in together. Its a bit of a fixer-upper, but they decide to renovate it anyway and become landlords, renting out the units in order to afford the place. Michael Keaton plays the nightmarish but cunning tenant who moves in, changes the locks and refuses to pay his deposit or his rent  but his behavior becomes increasingly creepy from there.

5. 'Dirty Harry' (1971)

We Potrero Hill boys, we got to stick together, a doctor says to the titular rogue police officer played by Clint Eastwood in the first film of this San Francisco-set action franchise. A prescient signal of the conservative turn of the Ronald Reagan era, its a right-wing fantasy of a film laden with gratuitous bloodletting that hasnt aged well, but undoubtedly paved the way for a slew of crime dramas that would follow in its footsteps in addition to spawning four of its own sequels.

Several scenes, including the aforementioned exchange between Harry and the doctor, were filmed at San Francisco General Hospital on 1001 Potrero Ave., while a car chase sequence similar to Bullitts zips along Mississippi toward 20th Street (the Potrero Hill gas storage tank is visible on the horizon, though the structure has since been demolished). The final film in the series, The Dead Pool, also features this remote control car pursuit.

6. 'A View to a Kill' (1985)

Move over, No Time to Die. This campy James Bond classic starring Roger Moore, Christopher Walken, Tanya Roberts and Grace Jones not only boasts an iconic fight scene on top of the Golden Gate Bridge, but perhaps one of the best title sequences of any Bond film, with a quintessentially '80s theme from Duran Duran thrown in for good measure (it would go on to claim the No. 1 slot on the Billboard Hot 100).

In the film, Bond (Moore) tracks down Max Zorin (Walken) and May Day (Jones), who are responsible for crafting microchips that release adrenaline in racehorses, though Bond fears the technology could be used for something far more sinister. Knowing their leading competitor in the microchip industry is Silicon Valley, the villainous duo plots to destroy the area by inducing an explosion beneath the lakes in the Hayward and San Andreas faults.

An iconic sequence follows Bond and state geologist Stacey Sutton (Roberts), whose family oil business Zorin attempts to buy out for the sake of his sinister scheme. When Bond and Sutton sneak into San Francisco City Hall to secretly review his plans, the police get involved, and the pair evades them by jumping onto a fire truck and careening through downtown San Francisco, knocking over the Chevron sign where the McDonalds on 16th and Potrero stands today.

7. 'Sweet November' (2001)

Long before Keanu Reeves flung himself off Embarcadero skyscrapers in the soon-to-be-released The Matrix Resurrections or dated Ali Wong in Always Be My Maybe he appeared alongside a fresh-faced Charlize Theron in a 2001 remake of the 1968 romantic comedy Sweet November.

We see Potrero Hill front and center in several scenes: the exterior of Saras apartment is at 298 Missouri St. (where the Potrero Hill Archives Project is today) on the corner of 18th, and the couple is seen wandering into the now-shuttered Daily Scoop ice cream parlor nearby, which was made to look like a produce stand and convenience store. They also dine nearby at Farleys, where you can still stop in for a cup of coffee.

Linenthal said he decorated a model boat and a skateboard for the film, and remembers that Keanu Reeves bought some reading material at Christophers Books during production. He also recalled a particularly funny anecdote:

A friend came over and wondered who the woman sitting on my front stairs was, he said. It was Charlize Theron.

Directed by Pat OConnor, the tear-jerker of a film follows the unlikely romance between robotic ad executive Nelson Moss (Reeves) and free-spirited dog groomer Sara Deever (Theron) who cross paths while taking a test at the DMV. Afterward, she suggests a dubious proposition: that he come live with her for the month of November in order to shed his workaholic ways and ultimately learn how to appreciate the simple pleasures of life. The pair fall for one another, but little does Nelson know, Sara is hiding a secret that will change everything.

8. 'The Joy Luck Club' (1993)

In this film based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Oakland-based author Amy Tan, the shared home of couple Lena St. Clair (Lauren Tom) and Harold (Michael Paul Chan)  still at 610 Rhode Island St.  is cold, industrial and gray, and seems to mimic their detached relationship.

This coming-of-age drama traces different generations of Asian American women, weaving together multiple story lines from the past to present day that examine their complicated relationships and cultural differences. Once married to an abusive husband in China, Ying-Ying (France Nuyen) only wants the best for her daughter, Lena, who is unhappily married herself to her boss from her architecture firm, Harold. He cares more about tallying Lenas expenses than being a good husband to her, which frustrates Ying-Ying.

One million dollars, and the walls are still crooked, she laments to her daughter of the modern interior. Later, as Ying-Ying stands in the guest bedroom alone while Lena and Harold argue, she thinks to herself, All around this house I see the signs. My daughter looks, but she does not see. This is a house that will break into pieces.

However dismal, the architecture of the three-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home was inspired by the Kronos House, where cellist Joan Jeanrenaud once lived.

Its Potrero Hill Month at SFGATE. Well be diving deep into the neighborhood for the entirety of October as part of a series where well be highlighting a different corner of San Francisco every month this year.
Kelly Clarkson praises Texas nurses on show The host also gifted the nurses $250 each for their work.

Texas builds shipping container border wall despite shortage The state's construction of a container wall at the border flies in the face of a global shortage.
Susan Walsh/AP

WASHINGTON (AP)  An 84-year-old Iranian-American man who has been detained in Iran for more than five years underwent surgery on Tuesday to clear a blockage in an artery to the brain that his family and supporters have described as life-threatening.

The surgery on Baquer Namazi appears to have been a success and Baquer is awake, although he remains groggy, according to a statement from Namazi's attorney, Jared Genser. He is expected to remain in the intensive care unit for two more days and then be transferred to a general recovery ward before being released.
BAKAU, Gambia (AP)  Sharp sounds of clanking machetes cut the air as a warning that the Kankurang is coming.

Fearful children nearby run inside their homes as the scary figure approaches, grunting. Others, more curious, risk a closer look at the man dressed to represent the spiritual figure.

The traditional Kankurang wears a mask made of bark and his body is covered in leaves and red fiber from the faara tree. Other Kangkurangs with him wear colorful outfits with masks of cowrie shells.

The Kankurangs are followed by a small procession of teenagers and young men who are accompanying four young boys nearing the end of a month-long initiation rite, which is practiced by the Mandinka ethnic groups in Gambia and neighboring Senegal.

Despite his fearsome appearance, the Kankurang symbolizes the spirit that provides order and justice and is considered a protector against evil. He appears at ceremonies where circumcised boys are taught cultural practices, including discipline and respect.

This is the place where we trained them (the boys) how to respect people and how to respect elders and so on, said Mamadou Jallow, 50, who leads the ceremony and looked after the boys during the four-week initiation period.

He explained that the Kankurang is a spirit and humans dont have his power, but during the ceremonies some men dress like the Kankurang to drive away evil from the boys.

Evils. They are afraid of it. So maybe when we put it (a man representing a Kankurang) out, they will think its a real one. They will be afraid, he said.

The Kankurang rite was recognized in 2005 by UNESCO, which proclaimed it a cultural heritage. The Kankurang tradition has since spread to other groups in the region  including Wolof, Fula and others  but it is at risk of disappearing because of land development, he said.

Their traditional practice is in retreat because of the rapid urbanization of most of Senegal and Gambia and the decreasing extent of sacred forests, which are transformed into cultivated land, according to the UNESCO website.

This is the culture we have. And me, Ill always work for the culture to survive, said Jallow. As far as Im alive, I will never leave my culture.

The night before the initiation rite ends, musicians play traditional drums in the compound where the boys have stayed. Families get a glimpse of the boys, wearing white hoods as they sing songs theyve learned.

The rite ends with a day of celebration in which families, friends, and neighbors gather for the presentation of the newly initiated boys.

Wearing collars made of candies and money bills, each boy dances in front of the crowd. Relatives and neighbors put small amounts of money in a bucket as a sign of gratitude, to be shared with those who took care of them during their coming-of-age passage.

With joyful music and dance, their community welcomes the boys as men who will carry on their traditions.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Australia will commit to a target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 but will not increase its goal for 2030 at an upcoming U.N. climate summit in Scotland, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Tuesday.

Morrisons conservative Liberal Party-led government was narrowly re-elected in 2019 with a climate policy that opposed the 2050 net zero target adopted by the opposition center-left Labor Party.

Morrison wrote in an opinion piece published Tuesday in Australian News Corp newspapers that his government will indeed commit to the 2050 net zero goal, but will not up its election pledge to reduce emissions between 26% and 28% below 2005 levels by 2030.

I said we would meet and beat this target and we will, Morrison wrote.

Getting to the net zero commitment took political wrangling on the part of Morrison's ruling party, including winning the support of a rural-based junior coalition member  the Nationals party  with a number of concessions.

One of them was that Resources Minister Keith Pitt, who maintains Australia will continue exporting coal for decades, was made the fifth Nationals Cabinet minister. Morrison on Monday announced Pitts promotion.

Morrison will announce further details of the agreement with the Nationals after they are explained to government lawmakers at a meeting later Tuesday at Parliament House.

The conditions also include a government review every five years of the economic impacts of the net zero target outside major cities. The first assessment would be delivered in 2023, The Australian newspaper reported.

Finance Minister Simon Birmingham described the reviews as a health check on how various parts of Australia were being effected by the transition to net zero.

What it will do is focus the minds of the government of the day very clearly on where additional investments may be necessary to help ensure the transition, Birmingham told Australian Broadcasting Corp.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who will host the upcoming summit in Glasgow, Scotland, known as COP26, congratulated Australia on its net zero ambition.

That was very difficult for Australia because Australias very heavily dependent on coal, on lots of carbon-producing industries, and theyve done a heroic thing, Johnson said, referring to the 2050 commitment.

However Australia is likely to be criticized in Glasgow for its relatively weak 2030 target. The United States has committed to reductions of between 50% and 52% below 2005 levels. Britain has pledged to cut emissions by 68% below 1990 levels.

Australia is one of the worlds 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.

COP26 will assess progress since nations agreed in the 2015 Paris accord to limit warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The meeting in Glasgow is widely seen as the last chance to hold global warming to 1.5 C (2.7 F) above pre-industrial levels.
The big brown bat has been determined to be the most frequently seen species of bat in Connecticut after other types have declined because of white-nose syndrome, officials said.

The little brown and big brown bats were the most common bat species found in the state until white-nose syndrome was documented in Connecticut, beginning in 2008, according to the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

Several bat populations in the state have been devastated by white-nose syndrome, DEEP said. Those species most impacted  known as cave bats  have dropped population totals so dramatically that they were added to the states list of endangered, threatened and special concern species in 2015.

The big brown bat and little brown bat are both classified by the state as needing the greatest conservation efforts. The little brown bat is also labeled as endangered in Connecticut.

White-nose syndrome hits cave-roosting bat species the hardest, causing extensive mortality in hibernating bats across eastern and midwestern parts of the country.

In 2012, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimated that about 5.7 million to 6.7 million bats had died in the eastern U.S. and Canada since white-nose syndrome was discovered in New York in 2006.

The mortality rate has reached 90 to 100 percent in some species. DEEP said in Connecticut, the northern long-eared bat, little brown bat and tri-colored bat populations have seen the greatest declines. The agency said the big brown bat and eastern small-footed bat have also seen population declines due to white-nose syndrome, but those losses have not been as severe.

Researchers studying white-nose syndrome determined it is caused by a fungus that is visible as a white, powdery growth on the skin and muzzle of hibernating bats. DEEP said the fungus thrives in cold, humid conditions  typical for caves and mines used by bats for hibernation.

White-nose syndrome is transmitted primarily from bat to bat, especially where they gather in clusters. People can inadvertently carry fungal spores from cave to cave on their gear and clothing, DEEP said.

The fungus infects the muzzle and wings of bats when their metabolism and immune systems are essentially shut down. Bats infected with the fungus wake up more frequently from hibernation and burn much-needed fat reserves. Once energy is depleted, its unlikely the bat will survive the winter. DEEP said some bats who lose their energy can be seen desperately searching for food and water, only to die from lack of food and exposure.

Biologists with the Wildlife Division of DEEP continue to monitor hibernating bats for signs of white-nose syndrome and track summer maternity colonies.
NEW YORK (AP) 

The Brooklyn Diocese fired a Catholic music school teacher in Queens after he married a man, saying he violated a contractual stipulation to the Catholic Church.

Matthew LaBanca, a teacher at St. Josephs Catholic Academy in Astoria and a music director at Corpus Christi Church, was fired Oct. 13 after diocese officials learned he had married a man in August, the Daily News of New York reported Monday.

LaBanca said that a community member reported his wedding date to the diocese, and that high-ranking officials met for two months to discuss whether he should be fired.

LaBanca said that Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, the soon-to-retire leader of the Brooklyn Diocese, was responsible for his termination.

In a statement, school and church officials said that LaBanca was fired because he violated a part of his contract that said teachers must support and exemplify by his/her public conduct Catholic doctrine and morality.

LaBanca said he was offered a severance package but turned it down because it would have required him to sign documents that prohibited him from speaking about the termination.

City and state anti-discrimination laws forbid terminations based on sexual orientation, but religious institutions are protected to make decisions based on religious beliefs.
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  A Toronto-based human rights organization says it is launching a private sponsorship program to resettle North Korean refugees in Canada, which will become the third country after South Korea and the U.S. to accept North Koreans.

Sean Chung, executive director of HanVoice, said Tuesday the pilot program created in partnership with Canadas government aims to bring five North Korean refugee families from Thailand to Canada within the next two years.

Thailand is a major transit country for North Korean refugees because it does not send them back to North Korea or China. China, North Koreas main ally, has been frequently accused of cracking down on North Korean escapees and forcibly returning them despite the risk of torture and imprisonment.

Among the candidates in Thailand, Canada will prioritize the families of North Korean women who have survived or are at risk of sexual and gender-based violence, Chung said.

Canadians who volunteer as sponsors will be asked to support the families for 12 months or until they become self-sufficient. The sponsorship period could be extended to a maximum of 36 months in exceptional cases, HanVoice said in a statement.

The Canadian Embassy in Seoul didnt immediately respond to requests for comment.

From putting up the money to sponsor the families, to picking them up at the airport, to helping register their children for school, the community will be involved every step of the way, said Chung, who called the program uniquely Canadian."

For North Korean escapees, the majority of whom are women and who have undergone traumatic experiences in transit, this is a new safe pathway and a fresh new start."

Tens of thousands of North Koreans are believed to be living in hiding in China. About 34,000 other North Koreans have fled to South Korea, where they can receive citizenship and other benefits under a law that considers North Korea part of its territory.

The U.S. has admitted a much smaller number of North Korean refugees since the adoption of the North Korea Human Rights Act in 2004.

Chung said North Korean escapees have been unable to access Canada's refugee system, although some have migrated to Canada, Western Europe and Australia after initially settling in South Korea.

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Associated Press writer Hyung-jin Kim contributed to this report.
CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (AP)  A Chicago man has been sentenced in Iowa to federal prison for running a scheme in which he collected deposits and money for other expenses related to music concerts that never took place.

Romel Murphy, 43, was sentenced last week to more than six years in federal prison after pleading guilty in January to one count of wire fraud, federal prosecutors in Cedar Rapids said in a news release. There is no parole in the federal system.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  Republican lawmakers in Tennessee are gearing up to take a broad swipe at officials who have had a role in maintaining COVID-19 pandemic protections, from school boards that passed mask mandates to a prosecutor who has pledged not to enforce the governor's order letting parents exempt their students from classroom mask wearing.

Wednesday's special session kickoff marks the third time lawmakers call themselves into action in Tennessee history without the governor. Democrats have blasted the COVID-19 session as politically motivated and dangerous for public health.

The session will have a starkly different tone than last week, when GOP Gov. Bill Lee brought lawmakers back for overwhelming bipartisan votes for economic incentives and oversight plans related to a massive Ford electric truck and battery project coming to West Tennessee.

Republican legislative leaders are keeping the topics in play broad and have not promised what will pass.

They have indicated they could even try to circumvent elected district attorneys if they publicly decline to enforce certain laws  a national trend by progressive prosecutors that Nashville District Attorney Glenn Funk has carried out on multiple hot-button policies that target abortion rights, transgender people, mask requirements in schools and small marijuana possession cases.

President Joe Bidens administration is likely the main target during session, even though his workplace vaccine order trumps state governments authority. Six, large independent county health departments could see a change to the additional autonomy they have over pandemic precautions, and the governor could yield some of his emergency powers to oversight from lawmakers.

School board members, who at times have drawn conservatives' ire by implementing mask mandates in classrooms, could be required to declare a party affiliation to run for office, or mask mandates in schools could be banned.

And businesses who require vaccines for employees or customers could be made liable for harm or injury from employees taking a vaccine, workers fired for refusing could be assured they can receive unemployment, and lawmakers could potentially bar vaccination as a condition of employment.

For district attorneys, it's unclear how far lawmakers might be willing to go in restricting their discretion.

Republican Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, the Senate's leader, said one option would be letting state Attorney General Herbert Slatery, a Republican, go to court to ask for another prosecutor to bring a case in place of one who won't enforce a certain law.

I think its something thats worthy of discussion, that weve had a district attorney who has refused to prosecute in a number of instances, and that just leaves people without a way to seek justice, McNally said.

Earlier this month, before legislators made it known that prosecutorial discretion could be a focus of the session, Funk told The Associated Press the state Constitution includes "means through which people who have differences of opinion can stay in their lanes and do the job that they have been elected to do.

It's unclear, however, how much of a difference lawmakers might make. The state Constitution already says that when a district attorney fails or refuses to attend and prosecute according to law, the court shall have power to appoint an attorney pro tempore. David Raybin, a prominent Nashville criminal defense attorney and former assistant district attorney, said that constitutional option is used sparingly, and most commonly, after a prosecutor decides there is not enough evidence to try an individual case.

Raybin said police are not going to make arrests on an offense that the district attorney won't prosecute. If more cases were handed off because a prosecutor won't enforce a particular law, Raybin said it would likely require an additional, undetermined source of investigators and would be expensive.

"Could the General Assembly pass legislation to say that when certain classes of laws are not being prosecuted, then the court shall appoint a special prosecutor to pursue them? That certainly would be consistent with the Constitution," Raybin said. But it would create all sorts of procedural problems as to exactly how that would work.

Funk this summer said he would not prosecute teachers and school officials enforcing mask mandates in defiance of the governor's executive order that let parents opt their students out of mask mandates. He also refused to enforce a 2020 law requiring medical professionals to inform women undergoing medication-induced abortions that the procedure could be reversed, which medical experts say is not backed by science.

Funk also said he would not enforce Tennessee's new first-of-its-kind law that required a notice outside multi-stall public bathrooms at businesses that effectively says transgender people could be inside.

He's also previously said he won't prosecute low-level marijuana cases after lawmakers blocked Nashville's previous effort to ease up on the cases.

Judges paused the policies about bathroom signs and abortion reversals statewide and blocked the school mask opt-outs in three big counties, one in each Tennessee federal court district.

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Follow APs coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP)  The Netherlands' biggest pension fund announced Tuesday that it will stop investing in companies that produce fossil fuels, saying the move  that has long been demanded by many members of the fund  was prompted by recent climate reports by the United Nations and International Energy Agency.

The ABP fund is a wealthy and influential investor that manages the pension savings of more than 3 million Dutch workers in the government and education sectors. It has some 15 billion euros ($17.4 billion) invested in fossil fuel production, almost 3% of its assets.

The head of climate and energy at the Dutch branch of Greenpeace, Faiza Oulahsen, called the move fantastic news in the fight against the climate crisis and said she wants it to set a precedent.

This step by ABP is extremely important and makes clear once again that the time of coal, oil and gas is passing, Oulahsen said. Quitting fossils is the only logical answer to scientists warnings. We also expect this step from other financiers, major polluters and governments.

The announcement comes just days before a U.N. climate conference known as COP26 opens in Glasgow. Many environmental activists, policymakers and scientists say the Oct. 31-Nov. 12 event marks an important and even crucial opportunity for concrete commitments to the targets set out in the 2015 Paris climate accord.

We want to contribute to minimizing global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Large groups of pension participants and employers indicate how important this is to them," ABP Chairman of the Board Corien Wortmann said in a statement.

The ABP Board sees the need and urgency for a change of course, she added. "We part with our investments in fossil fuel producers because we see insufficient opportunity for us as a shareholder to push for the necessary, significant acceleration of the energy transition at these companies."

The fund said it will invest in major users of fossil fuels  energy producers, the automotive and aviation industries  and, using its clout as a shareholder, will encourage companies that use fossil fuels to become more sustainable.

It said it will divest its fossil fuel holdings in phases with most expected to be sold by the first quarter of 2023.

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Follow APs climate change coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/climate
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP)  The firing of Tennessee's former vaccination director caught the state's top health leaders off guard and sent them scrambling for answers as the health commissioner fumed over the praise coworkers heaped on the ousted employee, documents show.

Earlier this year, Tennessee's Department of Health sparked national attention after Dr. Michelle Shelley Fiscus was fired under pressure from Republican legislators incensed over the department's efforts to get children vaccinated against COVID-19. Fiscus accused Health Commissioner Lisa Piercey of terminating her to appease a handful of outraged and uninformed legislators.

The Associated Press requested a week's worth of emails among the health department's top leadership regarding Fiscus' firing in mid-July. The records, released for review after several months, paint a more complete picture of an agency in turmoil over the firing of an official who was highly regarded by those fighting to contain the pandemic.

The agency last month said it would cost the AP roughly $1,400 to review several hundred records. Ultimately, the department produced some 150 records to view in person at no cost, explaining the discrepancy by saying the initial figure had estimated potential" costs. The state's open records law requires that all public records be made available for inspection upon request.

Emails provided to the AP show some officials were shocked at Fiscus' firing.

I am so saddened by this news and honestly cannot comprehend it, wrote Dr. Jill Obremskey, department medical director. Dr. Fiscus has put forth a herculean effort to assure COVID vaccine was available to anyone who wanted it. Because of her, many lives have been saved.

In announcing Fiscus' firing, Dr. John Dunn, state epidemiologist, acknowledged that the news was sudden, sad and disconcerting to our team members.

I wish her the very best in the future. Her commitment to public health has been very evident during the COVID-19 response effort over the last 18 months, Dunn wrote on July 12.

Two days prior, in a separate email to CDC officials, Dunn highlighted that Fiscus had helped lead herculean efforts to push the COVID-19 shot among the state's unvaccinated.

Dr. Tim Jones, chief medical officer, later told Dunn his kind words about Fiscus had upset Piercey.

By the way, the commissioner is really angry that you wrote anything nice about Shelley in your traditional farewell message and that Obremskey reiterated it. Its been fun around here, Jones wrote to Dunn on July 14.

A department spokesperson declined to comment on Jones' description, saying it was a personnel issue.

The email traffic raises new questions about a letter dated July 9  attributed to Jones  that recommended the firing of Fiscus.

The letter said Fiscus should be removed due to complaints about her leadership approach and her handling of a letter explaining vaccination rights of minors for COVID-19 shots without notifying their parents, which helped prompt the backlash from lawmakers.

Tennessee officials, however, didnt release her performance reviews, which are exempted under state public records law. Fiscus husband Brad circulated them in rebuttal, showing she received glowing appraisals over several years. One positive review came as recently as June, when Dunn praised Fiscus for strong leadership while her program was under very intense scrutiny.

A month prior, Republican lawmakers put Fiscus and the department in the hot seat over its childhood vaccine messaging efforts, with one lawmaker floating the possibility of shuttering the health agency as retribution.

News of Fiscus firing quickly resulted in a barrage of phone calls from Tennesseans and others alarmed by her dismissal and the departments decision to pause COVID-19 vaccine outreach efforts for eligible minors. Emails show Republican Gov. Bill Lees communication team provided a script for the health agency to recite.

(The department) began using the script at about 12:45 and it is not going well...the callers are really upset, wrote agency staffer Lisa Hanner.

Piercey was on vacation in Greece when Fiscus was fired. Few of the emails provided to AP include her correspondence, but a handful indicate she was monitoring media coverage.

At least one doctor emailed Piercey to praise her for firing Fiscus, which the commissioner forwarded to Brandon Gibson, Lee's chief operating officer. There's no indication in the records that she forwarded any emails from the medical community backing Fiscus.

I am thankful to my colleagues at the Tennessee Department of Health for coming to my defense and admonishing the department leaderships decision to terminate me from my position," Fiscus told the AP.

Tennessees elected and appointed officials continue to put politics ahead of what is in the best interest of the health and wellbeing of the people of Tennessee and it is the people who will continue to suffer the consequences of these misguided priorities. Its shameful, she added.

The department did not respond to the records request until Sept. 9, informing the AP it would cost about $1,400 for attorneys to vet and potentially redact about 875 records. When the AP asked to view the records in person as allowed under Tennessees open records law, the department updated that the total amount of documents would be 374.

Ultimately, the agency only identified 158 documents within the APs records request. Asked about the reduced number, a department spokesperson said the original estimate included potential records, not a firm amount.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (AP)  A Florida school district that had required masks for all students to slow the spread of COVID-19 decided Tuesday to relax its mandate for high school students.

The Broward County school board voted 5-3 to keep the district's mask mandate for elementary and middle school students, while masks will be optional, though highly recommended, for high school students starting next week.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday announced the appointment of former U.N. undersecretary-general Noeleen Heyzer of Singapore as the new U.N. special envoy for conflict-torn Myanmar.

She will succeed Christine Schraner Burgener of Switzerland, whose 3 years in the post saw moves toward democracy dashed in a military takeover of the Southeast Asian nation last February that led to nationwide protests. Her term ends Sunday.

Heyzer served in 1994-2007 as executive director of UNIFEM, one of the forerunners of the umbrella U.N. organization for women known as UN Women. She was the first woman to serve as executive secretary of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific, in 2007-2014, a post that gave her the rank of an undersecretary-general.

She is currently a member of Guterres High-Level Advisory Board on Mediation, a member of the governing board of the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the National University of Singapore, and a distinguished fellow of the Singapore Management University and the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies.

Both Singapore and Myanmar are members of the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and Schraner Burgener told The Associated Press on Monday: I think the secretary-general certainly made the right decision to have a person who knows the region, who knows how to deal in a diplomatic way.

The outgoing U.N. envoy said her successor doesnt need advice, but if she were continuing in the post then I would clearly try and continue to help the people.

When Myanmars army seized power from the government of Aung San Suu Kyi on Feb. 1, it claimed with scant evidence that the general election her party won last November in a landslide was marred by widespread voting fraud. The takeover sparked street protests that security forces tried to crush and has moved to violence and clashes throughout the country with ethnic armed groups and so-called Peoples Defense Forces. The pushback has left more than 1,100 people dead, Schraner Burgener says.

ASEAN has called for an end to violence, for dialogue, and a visit by an envoy, but the junta leaders refused to allow a meeting with Suu Kyi so the visit was canceled. In their sharpest rebuke yet of the military takeover, ASEAN foreign ministers did not invite Myanmars military leader, Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, to the associations Oct. 26-28 summit where the crisis in the country is on the agenda.

The U.N. said that in 2008-2009, Heyzer worked closely with ASEAN, the government of Myanmar and the United Nations in recovery efforts following Cyclone Nargis and led a dialogue with Myanmars leaders on development and poverty reduction.
SIMPSONVILLE, S.C. (AP)  A high school senior in South Carolinas Upstate region has been shot to death outside a restaurant.

Elijah E.J. Smith of Simpsonville was killed Sunday night in a parking lot outside the Tipsy Taco in Simpsonville, WYFF-TV reported.

Smith was involved in an altercation with another person in the parking lot, the local coroner said. Smith was taken to a hospital, where he died before dawn on Monday.

Smith was a senior at Hillcrest High School, according to the Greenville County School District.

Simpsonville police say they arrested a 19-year-old suspect on charges that include murder.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  Idaho lawmakers will gather in Boise next month to consider legislation banning COVID-19 vaccine mandates by the federal government and private employers, top lawmakers in the House and Senate said Monday.

Republican House Speaker Scott Bedke and Republican Senate President Pro Tem Chuck Winder said the chambers will likely return for several days on Nov. 15.

The House never officially adjourned, and it can reconvene if called by Bedke. Winder said he would recommend senators return as well.

Bedke said he expects about a dozen pieces of legislation to be introduced, including some to prevent employers from requiring employees get vaccinated. He said lawmakers getting between the employee-employer relationship wasn't his preference, but some lawmakers supported the idea.

The objective is to get all of the various ideas out into the public domain so that everyone can take a look at them, to start the process," Bedke said. "I dont know how many of them, if any of them, will get critical legislative mass, in our bicameral system, but well see."

Both said lawmakers will look at legislation that would allow the state to initiate legal action over federal vaccine mandates on private employers. The legislation would include $2 million for a potential legal battle.

Many Idaho Republican lawmakers are angry with President Joe Bidens vaccine mandate announced in August. The sweeping new vaccine mandates affect 100 million Americans, requiring that employers with more than 100 workers require the workers to be vaccinated or be tested for the virus weekly.

Workers at health facilities who receive federal Medicare or Medicaid will have to be fully vaccinated, affecting more than 17 million health care workers, the White House said. Employees of the executive branch and contractors who do business with the federal government are also required to be vaccinated with no option to test out. That covers several million more workers.

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.

However, that rule has not yet been announced.

Bedke said that if lawmakers pass a law aimed at thwarting Biden's vaccine mandate, the state would have to wait until the rule is announced to file a lawsuit.

There's nothing to sue over at this point, Bedke said. I understand that there is angst among a lot of our citizens on this topic.

The House also has to complete action involving an ethics complaint against Rep. Priscilla Giddings.

A legislative ethics committee in August said Giddings, who publicized the name of an intern who reported a rape by another lawmaker, should be stripped of one of her committee assignments for acting in an a manner unbecoming to the states House of Representatives.

Giddings at the ethics hearing claimed she did nothing wrong, claimed the intern wasnt a crime victim. Giddings refused to answer questions that she said she considered irrelevant.

Giddings is running for lieutenant governor, as is Bedke.

When the legislature returns, it will essentially be a continuation of the 2021 regular session, which hasn't been in session since last May.
PRAGUE (AP)  Coronavirus infections in the Czech Republic have soared to the highest levels in more than half a year as authorities call on people to get vaccinated.

The Health Ministry said the daily tally of new cases jumped to 4,262 on Monday, 1,733 more than a week ago. It was the highest daily increase since April 13.

The trend was not expected to be reversed any time soon.

The ministry predicted that in the next few days the country will have more than 300 people infected per 100,000 in a seven-day period, a significant increase from 217 on Monday.

Health Minister Adam Vojtech blamed a low vaccination rate.

It has become an epidemic of the non-vaccinated, its a fact, Vojtech said on Tuesday. A majority of new cases are not vaccinated, and a majority of those who have to be hospitalized and are in serious condition have not been vaccinated.

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, some 67% of Czechs over 18 have been fully vaccinated, which is below an average of over 74.5% among the European Union nations.

I dare say that if we manage to increase the number of the vaccinated wed be able to cancel all restrictive measures the very next day, Vojtech said.

Thats not in sight yet. In fact, more restrictions have been reimposed, with face coverings mandatory at workplaces, starting this week. And as of next week, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and other places will need to check whether the patrons have the required COVID-19 certificate confirming they have been vaccinated, tested negative or recovered from the virus.

The government also decided to limit the time for which negative tests are valid. National health insurance also will not cover the costs of coronavirus tests now for non-medical purposes such as traveling or visiting restaurants, in an effort to prod more people to get vaccinated.

In recent days, people seem to have been listening to health authorities as an average of 30,000 a day received a shot, about three times more than several weeks ago.

In a worrying trend, though, the number of hospitalized surpassed 1,000 on Monday for the first time since May, while 17 people died of COVID-19 on Sunday, the biggest number since May 20.

The Czech Republic has been one of the hardest hit of the European Unions 27 countries in the pandemic. The nation of 10.7 million has seen 1.7 million confirmed infections and 30,648 deaths.

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Follow all AP stories on the coronavirus pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
MAGNOLIA, Texas (AP)  A federal judge has temporarily blocked a Texas school district's enforcement of a grooming policy that prohibits boys from having long hair.

Chief U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal's ruling on Monday came days after seven students, ages 7 to 17, sued the Magnolia Independent School District alleging gender discrimination over the policy that bans boys  and not girls  from having long hair.

Rosenthal's ruling covers a small group of students who she said were being harmed by the policy, according to the Houston Chronicle.

The district has said its grooming policy complies with state law and is in line with community values.

The lawsuit was filed on behalf of six boys and one nonbinary student by the American Civil Liberties Union of Texas, the ACLU Women's Rights Project and three major Houston law firms.

Three of the boys kept their hair long and ultimately stopped attending school as a result of the policy. Rosenthal ordered the district to let them return to class. The nonbinary student, who sometimes wore barrettes and clips in their locks, was allowed back in class under an exemption the judge extended. That exemption was set to expire this week.

Attorney Brian Klosterboer, from the ACLU of Texas, said he spoke with the students parents and they said the young plaintiffs were so happy to go back to school."

Rosenthal said she would determine at the next hearing what to do about the other three plaintiffs who reluctantly cut their hair at the start of school in August but are growing it back.

That hearing, which is set for Nov. 10, will address a preliminary injunction being sought by the plaintiffs. If granted, such an order would last until the lawsuit is resolved, and could potentially extend to more children.
SPOKANE, Wash. (AP)  A federal judge on Tuesday granted a stay in litigation seeking to save endangered salmon runs on the Columbia and Snake rivers.

U.S. District Judge Michael Simon in Portland, Oregon, granted a request by both sides in the lawsuit seeking the stay until July 31, 2022, so they can try to negotiate a settlement in the lawsuit.

Fishing and conservation groups joined with the state of Oregon, the Nez Perce Tribe and the Biden administration to seek the pause in litigation challenging the latest federal plan for hydropower operations on the Snake and Columbia rivers that are blamed by many for killing salmon.

The federal lawsuit, filed against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Bureau of Reclamation, Bonneville Power Administration, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Marine Fisheries Service, involves the most recent plan for dam operations issued by the Trump administration in late 2020.

The conservation groups, along with the state of Oregon and the Nez Perce, sued to block the Trump administration plan and filed a request for an immediate injunction to dramatically increase water flow through the dams to help salmon migrate through the Snake and Columbia rivers to the ocean to mature.

The two sides last week told the judge they had reached an agreement on how eight federal dams in the Columbia River Basin will be operated over the coming year. This will include additional spill of water past the dams at certain times of year to aid fish migration, while still preserving reliable hydropower production, transportation and other services provided by the dams.

Increasing the amount of water next spring for a brief time will help juvenile salmon pass through the dams and avoid the fish-killing turbines during migration.

The Columbia River Basin was once the greatest salmon-producing river system in the world. But dams built in the basin are blamed by conservationists for pushing salmon runs toward extinction. Four dams along the Snake River in eastern Washington state  Ice Harbor, Little Goose, Lower Monumental and Lower Granite  slow passage along the lower Snake River, a major migration corridor linking pristine cold-water streams in central Idaho to the Pacific Ocean.

About $17 billion has been spent over two decades in efforts to prevent salmon extinction. Because of that, many groups continue to demand those four dams be breached.

Dam supporters blame declining salmon runs on other factors, such as changing ocean conditions. Opponents of breaching the dams include river users and mostly Republican politicians in the region who argue the dams provide many benefits, such as electricity, river navigation and irrigation.

In another development last Friday, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat, and U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Washington, said they were exploring options to breach the four Snake River dams and replace the benefits they provide.

The next step is for us to define how to replace the services of the Snake River dams if they are breached, Inslee said. We know that they are a salmon impediment, we know that the salmon are on the verge of extinction, and we also know that they do provide services upon which a lot of folks and our economy depends.

That proposal is similar to one offered by Rep. Mike Simpson, an Idaho Republican, who in February said he could support breaching the dams and investing $33.5 billion to replace their benefits. Simpson's recommendation to breach the dams was met with fierce opposition.

Im not announcing a breaching decision today, Inslee said last week. I dont want to prejudge that next step.

That wasn't good enough for Washington GOP Reps. Cathy McMorris Rodgers of Spokane; Dan Newhouse of Sunnyside; and Jaime Herrera Beutler of Battle Ground.

It is becoming more and more clear that the public and stakeholders who rely on the Columbia Snake River System have been shut out of conversations between the Biden administration, federal agencies, and groups whose sole mission is to breach the Lower Snake River dams, the three Republicans said in a joint statement.

We need a transparent and balanced public dialogue, not a fishy backdoor deal! McMorris Rodgers tweeted Tuesday.

Samuel Penney, chairman of the Nez Perce Tribal Council, hailed Inslee and Murrays move.

The Columbia Power System was literally constructed out of the rivers and reservations and homelands of 19 Columbia Basin tribes," Penney said. "When that destructive history is truly understood, the modesty of the present request is plain, and the science supporting it is clear: salmon need a free-flowing, climate-resilient Lower Snake River, not a series of slow, easily-warmed reservoirs. The Nez Perce Tribe and its people intend to ensure that salmon do not go extinct on our watch.

Kurt Miller, the executive director of Northwest RiverPartners, a hydropower advocacy group based in Vancouver, Washington, called Murray and Inslees commitment to salmon recovery commendable, but questioned its transparency and worried it would begin with the assumption that dam breaching is the best way to save Snake River salmon.
WOOD RIVER  Eight COVID-19 related deaths were reported last week by the Madison County Health Department.

The news came as, on Monday, Gov. J.B. Pritzker outlined coordinated statewide efforts to prepare for the anticipated approval of the Pfizer vaccine for children ages 5-11 and an initial supply for half a million vaccinations.

Entering the final week of the month, the MCHD has recorded 17 COVID-19 related deaths for October. That compares to 23 in September.

Deaths last month included a man in his 40s, a woman in her 50s, three women in their 70s, a woman in her 80s, a man in his 80s and a woman in her 90s.

To date, 598 COVID-19 related deaths have been recorded in Madison County.

Three deaths were reported last week in Macoupin County: a man in his 60s, a man in his 70s, and a man in his 80s. To date, 140 COVID-19 related deaths have been reported in the county.

One death was also reported last week in Greene County; details were not immediately available. To date, the county has recorded 53 COVID-19 related deaths.

On Friday, the Illinois Department of Public Health reported 15,131 new confirmed and probable cases of COVID-19 in Illinois, including 183 additional deaths, between Oct. 15 and Oct. 22. To date, the state has reported 1,680,908 cases and 25,590 deaths.

Updated figures from the MCHD list a total of 39,600 cases to date, as well as 497,047 tests.

Of Illinois total population, more than 69% has received at least one COVID-19 vaccine dose and 54% is fully vaccinated.

In Madison County, 135.309 residents were fully vaccinated, or 51.16%, as of Sunday night.

Other county fully vaccinated rates include Monroe County with 53.94%, St. Clair at 49.33%, 49.73% in Clinton, 48.08% in Jersey, 47.94% in Macoupin, 45.15% in Montgomery, 41.37% in Bond, 37.67% in Calhoun and 34.96% in Greene.

The MCHD is offering COVID-19 vaccinations at its office, 101 E. Edwardsville Road in Wood River, on Wednesdays and Fridays. The clinic is by appointment only. For details visit www.madisonchd.org or call 618-692-8954, Ext. 2.

MCHD will also offer COVID-19 vaccinations 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5, at the Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Fitness Center.

The IDPH also stated that among people who received a Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, the following groups are eligible for a booster shot at six months or more after their initial series:

65 years and older

Age 18+ who live in long-term care settings

Age 18+ who have underlying medical conditions

Age 18+ who work or live in high-risk settings.

For the nearly 15 million people who received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine, booster shots are also recommended for those 18 and older who were vaccinated two or more months ago.

Pritzker on Monday said the state will partner with pediatricians, local health departments, schools and other organizations ahead of the expected emergency-use authorization from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Federal Drug Administration (FDA).

Once the Pfizer vaccine is authorized for use in children ages 5-11, more than 2,200 locations and providers statewide, are already enrolled to provide the vaccine, he said. The initial allocation will amount to about 500,000 doses available to children in Illinois.

As soon as the FDA and the CDC have signed off, these kid-sized doses and kid-sized needles will be shipped out to pharmacies, pediatricians and other providers across Illinois  and IDPH has reached out to every pediatrician in the state to enroll them in the vaccine distribution program, Pritzker said. As a parent, you should call your pediatrician now to make sure theyve enrolled and have ordered doses. And I will do everything in my power to continue to follow the science and keep our kids safe.

In preparation for administering shots to the 1.1 million children across the state who will become eligible for the vaccine, IDPH is enrolling pediatric offices to provide the shots at more than 2,200 locations.

Now that authorization has been granted, it is critically important that we get as many children vaccinated as quickly as possible, in order to provide them with the ultimate degree of protection, said Dr. Ngozi Ezike, Director of the Illinois Department of Public Health.

The state also is coordinating with federally qualified health centers, local health departments and family practitioners. IDPH will oversee outreach to 756 elementary school districts across the state to offer parent-approved vaccination clinics on school grounds.
A campaign that began with ordinary people donating frequent-flyer miles has raised enough in two months to provide 40,000 flights for refugees from Afghanistan, and organizers and the White House are looking to nearly double that figure.

About 3,200 flights with donated miles have already carried Afghans from temporary housing at military bases in the U.S. to new homes around the United States, according to organizers.

Corporations have made half of the contributions so far, mostly in tickets donated by airlines.

The campaign is being organized by Welcome.US and Miles4Migrants, a group that was founded in 2016 and uses donated miles and credit card points to help refugees. The group saw support for refugees fleeing Afghanistan in August, as the U.S. military withdrew and turned the country over to the Taliban, and began talking to other nonprofits about helping.

Government resources are limited, and we knew that the American people wanted to support Afghans who were arriving and help them find safe homes, said the miles groups co-founder, Andy Freedman. Thats when we turned to the airlines.

United Airlines has contributed 7,000 flights and American Airlines donated 6,000. Smaller contributions have come in from Delta, JetBlue, Alaska, Frontier, Air Canada, aircraft maker Boeing and the Tripadvisor Charitable Foundation, organizers say.

Individuals have donated enough miles and credit card points to cover 20,000 flights, according to the organizers.

It is incredibly inspiring to see the American people and American companies coming together to welcome our new Afghan neighbors in this way, said Nazanin Ash, a former State Department official during the Bush and Obama administrations and now the CEO of Welcome.US, a new not-for-profit coalition that is trying to generate private-sector support for arriving Afghans.

The organizers are looking to raise enough additional donations to pay for another 30,000 flights. Using donated miles and cash to pay for travel will free up government refugee aid for housing and other services, organizers say.

Historically, the evacuees typically pay for their own travel. That is quite a burden to be putting on people who come (to the U.S.) with very little, said former Delaware Gov. Jack Markell, who is President Joe Bidens point person on aiding the Afghan refugees and is also Bidens nominee for ambassador to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

According to Markell, about 9,000 Afghans have been resettled in the U.S., about 53,000 are living in temporary housing at military bases in the U.S., another 3,700 are coming in next 10 days from bases in Europe and the Middle East, and up to 30,000 more are projected to arrive over the next year or so, a figure that includes people still in Afghanistan.

Military planes were used to evacuate Afghans from a chaotic scene at Kabul's main airport. Airlines then carried them from bases in Europe and the Middle East to the U.S. under contracts with the federal government

Veterans groups and others have scrambled to get Afghan allies such as interpreters who served the U.S. military on flights out of Kabul since the capital fell to the Taliban. Some don't have the special immigrant visas that were intended for Afghans who helped Americans during the 20-year U.S. military presence, and the U.S. abandoned its embassy in August.

Some former Trump administration officials are working to build opposition to the U.S. resettlement of Afghan refugees, saying they are a security threat. How many terrorists are among them? Trump said in a recent statement. The Biden administration says they were vetted before entering the U.S.
ATLANTA (AP)  Faced with deadlocked jurors, a judge on Tuesday declared a mistrial in the case of three former Georgia sheriff's deputies accused of murdering a Black man whom they had repeatedly shocked with stun guns during a 2017 arrest.

Senior Judge H. Gibbs Flanders Jr. granted the defense motions for mistrials on the charges against Henry Lee Copeland, Michael Howell and Rhett Scott in the death of Eurie Martin, 58. The jury foreman told the judge that no juror in the Sandersville courtroom had changed their mind since Friday, the first day of deliberations, and that more time was unlikely to lead to the unanimity needed for convictions or acquittals.

Martin had a history of schizophrenia and was walking through the central Georgia town of Deepstep on a scorching day in July 2017, taking a 30-mile (50-kilometer) journey to see his relatives for his birthday. A resident called 911 to report Martin as suspicious after Martin approached the person and asked for a drink of water.

Responding officers said Martin refused to stop walking, threw down a soda can and took an aggressive stance, prompting them to fire their stun guns when he didn't follow instructions.

Beyond murder, the fired deputies faced charges of involuntary manslaughter, false imprisonment, aggravated assault, simple assault and reckless conduct.

The case points to a continuing reluctance by some jurors to convict law enforcement officers on charges of misconduct.

District Attorney Tripp Fitzner wrote in an email that he has requested a trial transcript and wants to study it before deciding whether to retry the case. Out of respect for Mr. Martins family, they will be the first ones to know, Fitzner wrote, praising prosecutors for working diligently and passionately.

For now, the three men remain under indictment and are free on bail.

Muwali Davis, a lawyer for Martin's family, said relatives were disappointed and said Martin's life is worth the investment to retry this case.

This family wanted justice and wanted closure and this is not either," Davis said in a telephone interview after the verdict.

Prosecutors argued Copeland, Howell and Scott, all white men, had no reason to detain Martin. They pointed to extensive video evidence they said showed the deputies were unreasonably aggressive, as well as testimony from some witnesses.

Defense attorneys, though, said Martin had illegally walked in the road, littered when he dropped a soft drink can, and took an aggressive stance and obstructed an officer when he didn't obey the commands of the deputies. They also argued that the stun gun didn't cause Martin's death, which means officers were not assaulting him with a deadly weapon, a key underlying element of one of the murder charges.

Defense lawyer Mark Shaefer told jurors in closing arguments that Martin was not allowed to walk away and the officers' actions were justified, calling it a tragic, tragic accident but not a crime.

Assistant District Attorney Kelly Weathers, though, argued that a death was not an accident "if your actions are in reckless disregard of what is foreseeable.

Howell and Scott, but not Copeland, testified in their own defense.

The trial came after the Georgia Supreme Court rejected a lower court ruling that the deputies should be immune from prosecution. Flanders initially found use of force against Martin was justified under Georgias stand your ground law. That law allows for people to defend themselves with violence if they have a reasonable belief that they are in bodily danger.

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Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy.
NEW YORK (AP)  Satirist Mort Sahl, who helped revolutionize stand-up comedy during the Cold War with his running commentary on politicians and current events and became a favorite of a new, restive generation of Americans, died Tuesday. He was 94.

His friend Lucy Mercer said that he died peacefully at his home in Mill Valley, California. The cause was old age, she said.

During an era when many comedians dressed in tuxedos and told mother-in-law jokes, Sahl faced his audiences in the 50s and 60s wearing slacks, a sweater and an unbuttoned collar and carrying a rolled-up newspaper on which he had pasted notes for his act. Reading news items as if seated across from you at the kitchen table, he made his inevitably cutting comments, often joining the laughter with a horsey bellow of his own and ending his routines by inquiring: Is there any group I havent offended yet?

Every comedian who is not doing wife jokes has to thank him for that, actor-comedian Albert Brooks told The Associated Press in 2007. He really was the first, even before Lenny Bruce, in terms of talking about stuff, not just doing punch lines.

Sahl took pride in having mocked every president from Dwight Eisenhower to Donald Trump, although he acknowledged he privately admired Democrat John F. Kennedy and counted Republican Ronald Reagan among his closest friends. Of President George W. Bush, he observed: Hes born again, you know. Which would raise the inevitable question: If you were given the unusual opportunity to be born again, why would you come back as George Bush?

Sahl became famous in 1953 at San Franciscos hungry i (the i stood for intellectual), the perfect place for a comedian of his type. The city was a meeting ground for beatniks and college activists, and they crowded into the tiny club to hear someone who spoke to their disdain for the status quo. Word spread quickly about the young comedian with the distinctive style. Soon Sahl was earning $7,500 a week at nightclubs across the nation and appearing on television with Steve Allen and Jack Paar. He made the cover of Time magazine in 1960 and was profiled in The New Yorker.

A new generation of comedians, including Bill Cosby, George Carlin and the team of Mike Nichols and Elaine May, was inspired by Sahl. David Letterman continued the iconoclastic tradition, and more recently Jon Stewart, Stephen Colbert and John Oliver. Woody Allen would liken his work to the jazz of Charlie Parker and reviewers compared him to Will Rogers, who had tweaked politicians in a gentler manner.

I dont have the image of myself as a comedian, Sahl himself said. I never said I was one. I just sort of tell the truth and everybody breaks up along the way.

Sahl was cast as a wisecracking GI in two war movies, In Love and War (1958) and All the Young Men (1960). He starred in his own TV special. His comedy albums became best sellers. At the Academy Awards in 1959, he was co-host along with Bob Hope, Laurence Olivier, Jerry Lewis and others. Fearing he would seem to be joining the establishment, Sahl cracked: Weve just lost the college crowd; all across the country theyre yelling, 'Sellout!

In the 1980s he frequently ridiculed his friend Reagan, but he said the president was never offended.

If youre his friend, it doesnt matter if youre an escaped con, Sahl once said of Reagan. Democrats, he added, were often not as forgiving. In the 1990s, Sahl had fallen out of favor with them when he complained that President Bill Clintons only lasting legacy would be his affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky.

A lot of people I have met in the Democratic Party are extremely expedient, he said. Once its over, they dont want to know you. Of course, thats not generic to the Democrats.

Sahl thought so highly of Kennedy, however, that he even wrote jokes for him on the campaign trail, including one which inspired JFKs quip at his own expense  about a telegram from his wealthy father. Dont buy a single more vote than is necessary. Ill be d---ed if Im going to pay for a landslide.

But when Kennedy was assassinated in 1963, Sahl was devastated and the tragedy foreshadowed a decline in the comedians fortunes that lasted for years. He quickly became convinced that Kennedy had been killed as part of a CIA plot and he accused the government of staging a massive cover-up. He devoted much of his monologues to reading long passages from the report by the governments Warren Commission, which had been appointed to investigate the assassination. Audiences stopped laughing and his bookings plummeted.

Sahl also suffered a personal tragedy in 1996 when his only child, Morton Jr., died at age 19. Ten years later, the subject was so raw that mention of his sons name could bring him to tears.

My kid was like a more human version of me, he once said.

Through the tough times, he continued to work the college circuit and small clubs. Although he never regained his former stature, he eventually returned to making a comfortable living with comedy

He continued to carry his newspaper on stage with him, although as the 21st century dawned he joked that he should probably have replaced it with a laptop.

At age 80 he also began teaching a class in critical thinking at Southern Californias prestigious Claremont McKenna College.

It was a return to the academic life Sahl had known decades earlier when he earned a degree in urban planning from the University of Southern California in 1950.

Putting plans for graduate study on hold, he decided to make money writing jokes for comedians. He took to the stage himself, he once said, when he discovered the ones he was writing for were too dumb to get the material.

Morton Lyon Sahl was born on May 11, 1927, in Montreal, to a Canadian mother and a New York father who managed a tobacco shop. The family moved to the United States where Sahls father, Harry, worked for the Department of Justice in various cities.

They eventually settled in Los Angeles, where young Morton joined his high school ROTC program and excelled at speech. His mother said he had started to talk at 7 months and by age 10 already spoke like a man of 30.

After high school, Sahl joined the Air Force, spending 31 months at a remote Alaskan airfield where he edited the post newspaper, Poop from the Group. Discharged in 1947, he entered college.

He took on a number of jobs before his girlfriend, Sue Berber, persuaded him to audition for the hungry i in 1953.

The couple married two years later but divorced in 1957. Sahl married his second wife, former Playboy Playmate China Lee, in 1967. They also divorced.

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Late Associated Press writer Bob Thomas contributed biographical information to this report. AP National Writer Hillel Italie and retired Associated Press writer John Rogers also contributed.
NEW YORK (AP)  A man riding a subway train in Manhattan was shot in the leg during Monday evening's rush hour in an attempted robbery, police said, and the suspect fled the scene.

The New York Police Department said the man was sitting in a northbound N train just before 5 p.m. when another man armed with a gun approached and demanded his cell phone.
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  King Abdullah II of Jordan visited Poland on Tuesday for talks with President Andrzej Duda on security issues and further defense cooperation.

The two leaders met at the Presidential Palace in Warsaw.
TACOMA, Wash. (AP)  A 63-year-old Port Townsend, Washington, man was sentenced Monday to more than eight years in prison and 10 years of supervised release for raping a 6-year-old child while on a vacation in Canada.

John Timothy Whicher pleaded guilty to engaging in illicit sexual conduct in a foreign place in February 2021, prosecutors said. At the sentencing hearing, U.S. District Judge Benjamin Settle said, the victim has a life sentence. This kind of horrendous assault follows a victim through their entire life.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  In an effort to ease congestion at the nations busiest port complex, officials said Monday that they will start fining shipping companies whose cargo containers linger for too long at marine terminals.

The twin ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach said in a statement that arriving containers scheduled to be moved by trucks will be allowed to stay for nine days before fines start accruing. Containers set to move by rail can stay at the ports for three days.
WHITEHAVEN, England (AP)  In the patchwork of hills, lakes and sea that make up Englands northwest corner, most people see beauty. Dave Cradduck sees broken dreams.

The coal mine where the 74-year-old once worked has long closed. The chemical factory that employed thousands is gone. The nuclear power plant is being decommissioned.

To Cradduck, a plan for a new coal mine that could bring hundreds of jobs is a sign that at least someones interested in the area and an opportunity "for people who have got mining in their blood.

But environmentalists view the proposed mine with horror. They say it sends a disastrous message as the United Kingdom welcomes world leaders, advocates, diplomats and scientists to Glasgow, Scotland, for a United Nations Climate Change Conference that starts Oct. 31.

Many scientists and activists consider the two-week COP26 conference a last chance to nail down carbon-cutting promises that could keep global warming within manageable limits.

The U.K. sets itself out as a leader, but its building a coal mine, which is the most polluting thing that you can do, Rebecca Willis, a professor of energy and climate governance at Lancaster University, said. It sends a signal to the rest of the world that the U.K. isnt actually serious.

The proposed deep mine symbolizes a dilemma facing the British government: It aims to generate all of the U.K.s electricity from clean energy sources by 2035 and to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. But Conservative Prime Minister Boris Johnson has also pledged to boost prosperity in Englands neglected north with new factories, roads, railways and other infrastructure that environmentalists say is at odds with the governments green agenda.

West Cumbria Mining, the company hoping to build Britains first deep coal mine in three decades, wants to extract coking coal  a type used to make steel rather than for fuel  from under the Irish Sea. It plans to process the coal on the site of a shuttered chemical plant in Whitehaven, 340 miles (550 kilometers) northwest of London.

The company describes the project as a new kind of mine, far removed from the dirty, dangerous behemoths whose brick and steel skeletons dot the region's landscape. West Cumbria Mining says it will be the worlds first net-zero coal mine, with all of its carbon emissions reduced or offset by credits to the Gold Standard Foundation, an environmental organization. Plans show curved modern buildings that blend in with the surrounding hills.

Alexander Greaves, a lawyer for the mining company, said while opening a new coal mine might look bad at first glance, the Cumbria County project aims to be different be design.

Showing these mines can be made by lawto capture greenhouse gas emissions and required to offset any residual impactis true environmental leadership, he said.

Environmentalists scoff at that idea.

Its blindingly obvious that the quickest way to stop these carbon emissions and to make radical changes  which we have to do in the next 10 years  is to stop opening any new coal mines, said Maggie Mason, a local opponent of the mine. The same is true for oil wells and gas wells."

Nature and industry have long vied for supremacy in this part of England. Whitehaven sits on the edge of the Lake District National Park, an area whose beauty inspired William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter. The area also once was home to industries that offered hard, dirty jobs in factories and mines.

These days, wind turbines spin beside the sea  a sign of Britains transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, which last year produced almost half of the countrys electricity. That share shrank this year, however, partly due to a lack of wind.

With the cost of imported natural gas soaring and plans for new nuclear plants moving at a crawl, the U.K. government is still considering new fossil-fuel projects.

In the North Atlantic, west of the Shetland islands, Shell and Siccar Point Energy plan to extract 170 million barrels of oil from the Cambo oilfield. Environmental groups are trying to force the British government to stop the drilling. Johnsons administration is reluctant to intervene, saying sources like Cambo are still required to meet Britains energy needs as it shifts to a low-carbon economy.

We need to transition our existing oil and gas sector to a decarbonized platform, Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said last month in the House of Commons, accusing Cambo opponents of wanting a complete eclipse" of the oil and gas industries "with 250,000 jobs vanishing overnight.

In West Cumbria, the local authority approved the mine a year ago. The areas Conservative mayor, Mike Starkie, says it will be transformational.

The British government, under pressure from opponents and its own environmental commitments, intervened in March and ordered an inquiry by a planning inspector. The inspector says he will make a recommendation around the end of the year. Then the U.K. government will make a final decision  well after COP26 has ended.

Local supporters of the mine believe they are the silent majority, at risk of being drowned out by environmental activists. Some rallied at the site this month, holding signs that read Part of the answer, not part of the problem and Cumbria coke is the real thing.

Its been very simplified in the press that its jobs against the climate, said John Greasley, who helps run a Facebook page in support of the mine. And, of course, the climate is going to win every time. But its deeper than that."

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Lawless reported from London.

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Follow APs climate coverage at http://apnews.com/hub/climate
Lee Ji-eun/AP

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Samsungs de facto chief Lee Jae-yong was fined 70 million won (about $60,000) on Tuesday for illegally using the anesthetic drug propofol, about two months after he was released on parole over a separate corruption case.

The Seoul Central District Court said it convicted Lee, vice chairman of Samsung Electronics, of violating a law on drug controls. It said Lee was also ordered to forfeit about 10 million won ($8,570).
JOHANNESBURG (AP)  Former South African President Jacob Zumas effort to get a prosecutor removed from his corruption case has been dismissed by the Pietermaritzburg High Court.

Zuma filed a special application to have prosecutor Billy Downer taken off his case, accusing him of bias.

Judge Piet Koen on Tuesday dismissed Zumas application, paving the way for the corruption case against the former president to proceed. The trial will continue on April 11, 2022, said the judge.

I conclude that Mr. Zumas complaints, even if taken at face value, do not affect the title of Mr. Downer to prosecute, said Koen delivering the judgment.

Zumas legal representatives said they will study the ruling to determine whether or not they will appeal the judgment.

Zuma faces charges of corruption, fraud and money laundering related to the countrys controversial arms purchase in 1999. He is accused of receiving bribes from French arms company Thales through his former financial advisor Schabir Shaik, who was convicted of related charges in 2005.

This has been quite a protracted process that now needs to come to an end, National Prosecuting Authority spokesman Mthunzi Mhaga told reporters outside court on Tuesday, speaking of Zuma's efforts to get the prosecutor dismissed and other tactics to delay the trial.

Zuma, 79, attended the court proceedings in one of his first public appearances since he was released from jail in September. He was released on medical parole after serving nearly two months of his 15-month jail sentence for defying an order of the Constitutional Court to testify at an investigation into corruption during his time as president from 2009 to 2018.
CAIRO (AP)  Sudan's deposed prime minister and his wife were allowed to return home Tuesday, a day after they were detained when the military seized power in a coup, according to a statement issued by his office.

The release of Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and his wife followed international condemnation of the coup and calls for the military to release all the government officials who were detained when Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan seized power on Monday.

The statement by Hamdoks office said other government officials remained in detention, their locations unknown. The deposed prime minister and his wife were under heavy security at home in the upscale Kafouri neighborhood of the capital Khartoum, said a military official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. The official did not say whether they were free to leave or make calls.

Earlier in the day, Burhan said Hamdok had been held for his own safety and would be released. But he warned that other members of the dissolved government could face trial as protests against the putsch continued in the streets.

The military seized power in a move that was widely denounced abroad. On Tuesday, pro-democracy demonstrators blocked roads in the capital with makeshift barricades and burning tires. Troops fired on crowds a day earlier, killing four protesters, according to doctors.

In his second public appearance since seizing power, Burhan said the military was forced to step in to resolve a growing political crisis.

There were people who were talking about discriminating against others, and that was driving this country to reach a civil war that would lead to the fragmentation of this country, tearing apart its unity, its fabric and society. These dangers were in front of us, Burhan told a televised news conference.

But the coup came less than a month before Burhan was supposed to hand the leadership of the Sovereign Council that runs the country to a civilian  a step that would have decreased the militarys hold on power.

The whole country was deadlocked due to political rivalries, Burhan said. The experience during the past two years has proven that the participation of political forces in the transitional period is flawed and stirs up strife.

Hamdok had been held at Burhans home, the general said, and was in good health. But of the many other senior government officials detained Monday, Burhan alleged that some tried to incite a rebellion within the armed forces, saying they would face trial. Others who are found innocent would be freed, he added.

The takeover came after weeks of mounting tensions between military and civilian leaders over the course and pace of Sudans transition to democracy. It threatened to derail that process, which has progressed in fits and starts since the overthrow of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising two years ago.

At an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged world powers to unite to confront a recent epidemic of coups detat. But the U.N.s most powerful body took no action during the closed-door consultations about Sudan, a nation in Africa linked by language and culture to the Arab world.

Hamdoks office had voiced concern for his safety and for the other detained officials. In a statement, the office accused military leaders of acting in concert with Islamists, who have argued for a military government, and other politicians linked to the now-dissolved National Congress Party, which dominated Sudan during al-Bashir's Islamist-backed rule.

U.S. President Joe Bidens administration announced the halt of $700 million in emergency assistance to Sudan and said Tuesday it was looking at sending stronger signals to the generals.

They should first and foremost cease any violence against innocent civilians, and ... they should release those who have been detained and they should get back on a democratic path, said Jake Sullivan, the administration's national security adviser.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken reported that he spoke with Hamdok on Tuesday, the first high-level contact the U.S. has had with Sudan since the coup and the suspension of in U.S. aid. Blinken welcomed Hamdok's release and emphasized that the U.S. supports a civilian-led transition to democracy in Sudan, a State Department statement said.

Mariam al-Mahdi, the foreign minister in the dissolved government, declared Tuesday that she and other members of Hamdok's administration remained the legitimate authority in Sudan.

We are still in our positions. We reject such coup and such unconstitutional measures, she told The Associated Press by phone from her home in Khartoum. We will continue our peaceful disobedience and resistance.

The Ministry of Culture and Information, still loyal to the deposed government, said in a Facebook post that Sudanese ambassadors in Belgium, Switzerland and France have defected.

Nureldin Satti, the Sudanese envoy to the U.S., said he was working with those diplomats to resist the military coup in support of the heroic struggle of the Sudanese people to achieve the aims of the uprising against al-Bashir. But he did not specify whether he, too, had defected.

Al-Mahdi, meanwhile, spoke to the wife of one of the officials detained, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Khalid Omar, and said he was humiliated and mistreated during his arrest.

Military forces "took Khalid barefoot, wearing only his nightclothes, she said.

Hours after the arrests, Sudanese flooded the streets of Khartoum and other cities in protest. At least four people were killed and over 80 wounded when security forces opened fire, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee. Human Rights Watch said forces used live ammunition against the demonstrators.

Sudan saw a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2019, and there were fears about whether there would be another crackdown. A bigger test of how the military will respond to the resistance could come Saturday when protesters plan a mass march to demand a return to civilian rule.

The Sudanese Professionals Association, a group of unions that was behind the uprising against al-Bashir, also urged people to go on strike and engage in civil disobedience. Separately, the Sudan Popular Liberation MovementNorth, the countrys main rebel group, denounced the coup and called for people to take to the streets.

In a sign of the divisions among the civilian leaders in Sudan, a group known as the Justice and Equality Movement blamed the deposed government for the military takeover. It said a few officials had monopolized decision-making and refused to engage in dialogue.

The group, headed by Finance Minister Gibreil Ibrahim, is the first to publicly voice support for the military but also urged it to end the state of emergency, release the detainees and appoint a civilian government to run day-to-day activities. Earlier this month, the group had taken part in a pro-military sit-in in Khartoum.

Another pro-military group that splintered from the protest movement that ousted al-Bashir also welcomed the takeover, saying it would end a sit-in it had organized outside the presidential palace to support the generals earlier this month.

The military has sent mixed signals about Sudan's future. Burhan promised to gradually restore internet and communications services that were disrupted in the coup. But the Civil Aviation Authority said it was suspending all flights to and from Khartoum's airport until Oct. 30.

Following the coup, Burhan now heads a military council that he said would rule Sudan until elections in July 2023.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  A bow tie from homecoming, a tiny basketball and a toy car and plane.

It wasn't hard for Angel Alire to decide what would be the perfect objects to memorialize her son. He was a starting point guard for his high school basketball team, he poured his heart and much of his money into his sports car and he was close to earning his pilot's license.

Devon Trey Heyborne, 22, was killed on a Friday evening in April after opening his apartment door and being hit with gunfire. He is among the nearly 100 people killed in Albuquerque so far this year, marking yet another grim record for the city as it deals with a crime wave that has spanned several years.

Alire is among the Albuquerque mothers and other family members who will be adding to what organizers hope one day will become a permanent memorial in the nations capital. It's difficult to talk about, but the 46-year-old mother of three said she wants to be a voice for her youngest son and for change within the criminal justice system.

I just want to get the word out there so something can happen, so other families will never have to feel this way, she said. But even since he passed, look at how many more there have been.

The Gun Violence Memorial Project features four houses built of 700 glass bricks to represent the average number of people lost to homicides, suicides and accidental shootings each week in the United States. Each glass brick displays a person's name. Inside, the items tell the story behind that name.

Launched in 2019 in Chicago, the gun violence memorial was inspired by the NAMES Project AIDS Memorial Quilt that debuted in the 1980s. The gun violence memorial currently is on display at a museum in Washington, D.C., as part of an exhibition that will run through September 2022.

Organizers call it an active and living memorial, as items from around the country are continuously collected and added to the glass houses.

Volunteers with the project will be stopping in New Mexicos largest city Nov. 5-7 to collect items from families who have lost loved ones. Other collection events are planned this month in Massachusetts and New York.

In Albuquerque, the number of shootings in which people were injured has increased by nearly 16% when compared to the same period last year. Law enforcement has recorded about 250 shootings so far this year, including more than three dozen accidental shootings. Most of the victims have been men between the ages of 20 and 30.

The mayor signed an executive order last week creating a task force to focus on gun violence. He and other officials call it a public health crisis.

Gun violence is the main factor driving up crime in our city, Police Chief Harold Medina said last week. This task force is going to help us better understand the underlying causes so that law enforcement can stop acting as a band aid, and we can really address the challenges people are facing.

Alire, the police chief and others have been pointing to problems within the criminal justice system  namely a revolving door and lax consequences for repeat offenders.

In the case of Alire's son, the man charged in his death was supposed to be on house arrest for unrelated charges and monitored via GPS. She said she learned that monitoring was done only Monday through Friday during business hours.

Hardworking and handsome is how Alire described her son, saying he would never miss a chance to visit his grandparents and help them with chores and grocery shopping. Alire said her son also would call her about 20 times a day," asking for advice on everything from cooking pot roast to cleaning methods.

Her mobile phone is filled with photos and videos of Devon.

I feel let down by our system and by our state, Alire said. Systems that are supposed to protect us arent working.

She has a hard time sleeping now, and it was one of her late-night online browsing sessions where she learned about the memorial project. Seeing all those glass bricks made an impact.

I just thought it was such an amazing visual for people to see the amount of lives taken every week from gun violence, she said. I felt like theres been so much of that going on in New Mexico that I wanted to bring it here and be able to start the healing process among all of us who have lost someone.
Two Houston-based universities have been listed on a national LGBTQ nonprofit's annual rundown of "absolute worst, most unsafe campuses for LGBTQ youth" in the country.

Campus Pride, which advocates for LGBTQ inclusivity and safety at U.S. colleges and universities, creates a yearly list of campuses that have received or applied for exemptions to Title IX, a federal law that protects students from discrimination in federally funded schools, or have a "demonstrated history and track record of anti-LGBTQ actions, programs and practices," according to a news release. The group's 2021 account tallies 180 schools that meet this criteriathe most since the record began in 2015, according to NBC News.

Seventeen Texas schools made Campus Pride's 2021 list, including two from the Bayou City: The College of Biblical Studies and Houston Baptist University.

These arent just bad campuses or the worst campuses  these campuses fundamentally are unsafe for LGBTQ students, and, as a result, theyre fundamentally unsafe for all students to go to, Shane Windmeyer, founder and executive director of Campus Pride, told NBC News. They promote an environment of hostility, of discrimination, harassment, toward a group of people, and who wants  when youre trying to be educated  to have that type of negative learning environment?

The College of Biblical Studies qualified for the worst list as it holds an exemption to Title IX "allowing the college to discriminate against its students on the basis of sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, pregnancy or receipt of abortion while still receiving federal funds," according to Campus Pride. Documents included in the listing show the campus filed for the exemption in August 2016, and was granted its request in December 2017.

Houston Baptist University likewise also holds an exemption to Title IX, which the school requested in March 2017 and was granted in December 2017. However, the school also has a history of anti-LGBTQ actions. In May 2014, Houston Baptist University president Robert B. Sloan likened people who identify as gay to alcoholics and arsonists during a "Faith in the Public Square" event with Sen. Ted Cruz.

In 2019, 41 campuses, including Houston Baptist, filed an amicus brief in Bostock v. Clayton Countya landmark court case over whether Civil Rights Act of 1964 provided protections from discrimination for gay and transgender people. Houston Baptist and other schools joined together to offer their support for employers who argued that the act didn't protect LGBTQ employees from discrimination. The Supreme Court ultimately sided with employees on the matter.

Campus Pride also includes an index of LGBTQ-friendly campuses, which features a smaller list of Texas universities. The University of Texas at Dallas has the top rating based on the institution's overall commitment to LGBTQ-inclusive policy, program and practice. Meanwhile, the University of Houston, the only Bayou City school on the list, ranked fourth for inclusivity.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  A suspect is in custody after two people were killed and four injured  including a police officer  in a shooting at a shopping mall Monday in Boise, Idaho, police said.

At a news conference, authorities said officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect. The majority of the mall has been cleared but police were still looking for any additional victims.

Police didn't release any other information, saying the investigation was ongoing.

Police are asking people to avoid the area. Police also said they were notifying the families of those involved.

The Boise Towne Square shopping mall is located in Idahos largest city and is the citys largest mall.

Police were interviewing dozens of people outside the entrance to Macy's, one of five large department stores at the mall that has 153 stores in all.

Police are also investigating what appears to be another crime scene at a restaurant near the mall.

Cheri Gypin, of Boise, was in the mall with a friend where they walk for an hour three or four times a week. She said she heard several large bangs, but thought something had fallen from the ceiling. Then about 60 people, including families pushing strollers, came running at them, some of them shouting that there was an active shooter.

My friend was trying to process it, said Gypin, 60. I just looked at her and said, 'We've got to run.' So we just ran and kept running until we got to the outer perimeter of the parking lot.

They made their way back to their car, where police told the crowd of people who had fled the mall to leave the parking area.

___

This story has been updated to correct that four people were injured, not six, as previously reported by police.
Instead of one person, one vote, our democracy is being upended to favor one party seeking to control all the votes. Voter suppression and voter nullification laws, for example, are designed to make it easier for Republicans to pick their electorate, opening the gates of democracy for some while adding barrier after barrier for others.

Senate Republicans used the filibuster last week to block debate on the Freedom to Vote Act, but they must not be allowed to write the last chapter of this story. Senate Democrats must recommit to this legislation to protect and expand the right to vote and set national standards to make sure all Americans have access to the ballot in ways that work for them. And it also addresses the latest threat to democracy  partisan gerrymandering.

Voters are supposed to choose legislators, not the other way around. But Republican-controlled state legislatures are free to draw congressional maps explicitly to gain political advantage, following a Supreme Court ruling in 2019 that allowed the practice to continue.

As has long been the case, much of this gerrymandering disproportionately impacts women and communities of color.

Our present-day system of politics was born out of the racist power struggle that emerged during Reconstruction when Black voting power was an existential threat to politics as usual.

Back then, Southern Democrats and vigilante groups like the KKK rose up in a violent insurrection against democracy itself, lynching and attacking Black voters, hounding Black officials out of office, and upending elected governments.

Jim Crow gave Southern lawmakers the chance to finish what the KKK had started with a grab-bag of racist registration requirements, poll taxes, literacy tests, and unconstitutional gimmicks designed to build up a White, male electorate, and tear down voting rights for everyone else.

And now, Jim Crow 2.0 is alive and well, as partisan gerrymandering threatens to further disenfranchise, exclude and marginalize Black and brown voters.

To see how democracy gets subverted, look to  where else  Texas. The partisan gerrymander on display in Texas is part and parcel with the vigilante abortion law. Whether its seizing control of womens bodily autonomy, or monopolizing access to the ballot, Texas Republicans see state laws as vehicles for exercising more power and control over women and communities of color.

Wherever the freedom to vote is compromised, our ability to elect leaders who will fight for our agenda is also weakened.

As Leah Alden, deputy director of litigation at the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, says, You can do all of the voting, but if people have manipulated the line so that your vote effectively doesnt matter, then how do you get better schools, better roads, better health care, criminal justice reform? Maps can be drawn to either aid communities of color to have a voice, or designed to drown them out.

We know that voters favor candidates who support policies like paid leave, access to reproductive health, LGBTQ+ rights, and other vital issues. But partisan gerrymandering and restrictive voting laws stack the deck against democracy, even as the electorate grows more diverse.

The 2020 Census showed that for the first time in history, people of color accounted for all of the countrys population growth. In recent years, suburbs have been transformed from the overwhelmingly white communities that fled big cities after World War II to now include growing Black, Latinx, and Asian households.

The Brennan Center analyzed demographic trends in four states  Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and Texas  and found that all were experiencing rapid population growth that included more diverse communities. This is a trend that should be paying off in more political power, but it wont, the report concludes, because in all four states redistricting is controlled by Republicans with the power to rig the maps and ignore the reality of diversity.

We need to make voting rights a priority because those rights are the first defense against losing everything else. Our vote is our voice, and the Senate needs to act decisively to ensure we wont lose it.

Christian F. Nunes is president of the National Organization for Women. She wrote this for InsideSurces.com.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced a $290 million settlement agreement Tuesday with pharmaceutical giant Johnson & Johnson over what the state claims were deceptive marketing tactics that contributed to the ongoing opioid crisis.

In July, he announced Texas had joined a $26 billion multistate opioid settlement with McKesson, Cardinal Health and AmerisourceBergen, as well as Johnson & Johnson. Paxton said Tuesday that the state expects to receive $1.2 billion from the three other companies, bringing the states total to $1.5 billion.

Hundreds of lawsuits accuse the distributors of carelessly overlooking the alarming numbers of pills ordered by pharmacies across the country over the last two decades. Johnson & Johnson, the lawsuit alleges, downplayed its products addictive properties.

All four companies have denied wrongdoing in the case. In a press release Tuesday, Johnson & Johnson said the settlement is not an admission of any liability or wrongdoing and added that its prescription opioid medications  which are no longer available in the U.S.  accounted for less than 1% of total opioid prescriptions in Texas and the U.S.

Paxton said that Johnson & Johnson is finally being held financially accountable, but the state will continue pursuing legal action against drug companies that contributed to the opioid crisis.

Were not done going after these other companies, Paxton said Tuesday outside the Houston Recovery Center. Theres many more to come.

The settlement money will become available to the state on Jan. 1, and Paxton said it will be used to help solve the opioid crisis. The settlement said 70% of the money will go to the Texas Opioid Abatement Fund through the Texas Opioid Council, which will approve strategies for reducing opioid abuse.

From 1999 to 2019, nearly half a million people in the United States died from opioid-related overdoses, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Opioid deaths nationally increased by 30% last year, Paxton noted Tuesday.

Opioids were involved in nearly 70% of all drug overdose deaths in Texas in 2018, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The number of deaths involving prescription opioids declined by 4.6% that year.

Harris County  one of many local governments joining the settlement  is set to receive $3.9 million under the agreement.

This settlement is a first and important step in righting the wrongs caused by the companies responsible for the opioid epidemic, Harris County Attorney Christian D. Menefee said in a written statement. Families have lost loved ones and communities have been ravaged, including here in Harris County. I expect this will be the first of several settlements against the companies we sued, and I look forward to continuing this fight for Harris County residents.

The settlement will help fund opioid harm reduction in communities, Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins said in a written statement.

Dallas County, like so many communities throughout Texas, has been hard hit by an opioid epidemic that was caused and fueled by drug company misconduct, Jenkins said in the statement. Through this settlement, which is the best of its kind in the nation, one of those companies, Johnson & Johnson, has been held to financially account for its role in this crisis.

The Texas Tribune is a nonpartisan, nonprofit media organization that informs Texans  and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
With its red-orange Spanish-tile roof and its exquisite brickwork, the former library in Kendallville, INone of 2,509 libraries across the country built by Andrew Carnegie in the early 20th centuryis an architectural beauty.

This century-old marvel, opened in 1913, now seeks a new owner with $250,000 in hand, plus the funds to repurpose the structure. While the facade is simply gorgeous, a brilliant mind is required to breathe new life into this former repository of books.

Anybody who purchases this is purchasing it for the exterior, says Carl Quandt of The Quandt Team, who is listing the building for $250,000. A lot of work needs to be done.

But the 4,464-square-foot building hasnt exactly been abandoned. The sellerwho owns a framing shop around the cornersnapped it up 10 years ago with plans to transform it into an art gallery.

Shes got an eye for cool things, says Quandt of the seller, who hosted a few shows in the library.

Before that, an architectural firm and another business housed their offices here. Additions like a drop ceiling and baseboard heaters were a departure from the original design.

The building last served as a library around 1960, when the city decided that it needed a bigger facility, says Quandt. The town used proceeds from the sale to buy a building for its new location.

The Carnegie Library is zoned for both residential and commercial use, but the interest so far has tilted toward its use as a residential dwelling.

I havent had a single interest in commercial, says Quandt.

Exterior of former library in Kendallville, IN realtor.com

Entry realtor.com

Interior realtor.com

Office realtor.com

One of the bathrooms realtor.com

Gallery realtor.com

Entry realtor.com

Exterior realtor.com

Both the roof and foundation are in perfect condition, thanks to the sellers repair of the fieldstone and brick. She also replaced a few roof tiles that a tornado had ripped off, and installed two furnaces and two air-conditioning units.

Nothing needs to be done to the exterior, the agent says.

Nevertheless, the buyer will need to invest in restoration if this is to become a private residence. There's no place to cook, and none of the four half-bathrooms feature a shower or tub.

It has never been a single-family home, and its not converted at the moment, says Quandt.

The electrical systems will also require updates.

A finished basement, which has high ceilings and large windows that let in the natural light, could easily be turned into living space, and the building even comes with a separate entrance. It's already divided into four rooms.

Quandt will typically stage a home (Normally, I show up with a trailer packed with items, he says), but for this listing, he let the library's historic bones lie bare for all to see.

A lot of the woodwork in there is preserved. I felt like it sold itself, he says.

Kendallville, 30 miles north of Fort Wayne, IN, is a popular hub for retirees enamored with small-town life.

Baby boomers from other areas are looking to retire and attracted to the low cost of living, Quandt says.

Downtown Kendallville offers old buildings and cool shops, along with antiques stores and a vintage movie theater.

And check it out: Prospective buyers have reached out from as far away as California, Chicago, and Washington, DC.

The post Could You Convert It? Former Indiana Library Seeks Buyer for Next Chapter appeared first on Real Estate News & Insights | realtor.com.
News

Health employee salary ordinance stirs debate

Grant County Council passed a salary ordinance for the health board onto a third reading last week after initial opposition regarding certain health officials salaries.

Health Officer Dr. William David Moore requested council to approve a plan to allocate a federal grant dealing with emergency services to salaries for county health workers, but it was initially shot down by council members. The grant totaled $25,000 and was mentioned at previous council meetings, but since the federal, state, and county governments function differently, the grant allotment was delayed for months.

Dr. Moores proposal was met with criticism by councilman Chuck Poling as the plan allotted much less money toward preparedness and materials than it did for payroll. According to the plan, slightly over $900 are being put toward preparedness and materials, leaving more than $24,000 to be used for salaries in the Health Department, according to officials.

Dr. Moore combatted this concern by highlighting Food Safety Inspection Officer Dean Small, who has taken on other roles during the pandemic such as checking and delivering personal equipment to facilities despite the time of day since the pandemic began. Moore said he was allotted money from the grant since he has not truly received any compensation for his extended work.

Council responded by raising concerns with how the funds were spent in the past. Funds were mostly spent on necessities, they say, such as cell phone bills, paying part-time employees, equipment and more, but it wasnt until about 2018 until the funds begin to be used for raises, according to Poling.

Considering the recent $2,000 countywide wage increases provided to government workers, council members were hesitant in approving any more increases to payroll.

I dont want you to lose the grant, I just dont believe you can give these people bonuses when this county just gave them all a $2,000 raise, said Poling. Everybody else that works in this place went through the same things your people did. Are you going to give everyone in this county a $5,000 bonus?

Brief arguments arose between the council and the health board representatives as council claimed the money was not used for raises while the health board insisted that the fund was meant to be used for raises since its creation. Dr. Moore shut down the argumentation by stressing, once again, the reasoning for the money being utilized for payroll to compensate the workers.

Part of the fund will be utilized to pay the former coordinator, Mr. Bender, who was not paid for July into August due to the funds delay in processing by the state, which will take around $12,000 from the grant to help pay his two-month salary.

Commissioner Ron Mowery joined the conversation by stating that the part of the plan addressing repayment for Benders time is necessary, but the bonuses should not be approved as other workers are not receiving the same compensation.

Dr. Moore responded by stating that he would no longer ask employees to complete extra work if they are not compensated, which stirred up even more debate between the council and Dr. Moore.

You work for us, you dont work for yourself. You cant stand up there and tell this council that youre going to tell people not to do things for peoples health, said Poling. You cant do that.

Dr. Moore refused to debate the subject as he believes they should be compensated if they are given extra tasks beyond their job description, stating that if the council rules not to compensate them, then they will no longer complete the extra work.

Mowery asked Dr. Moore whether his statements reflect the health board, and if so, then the county may have issues with the health board as a whole.

Council initially made a motion to amend the first reading of the ordinance, removing the additional salary bonuses, and passing the amendment onto a third, but then council received information that made them change their mind.

Commissioner Mark Bardsley took the stand to explain how the bonuses are already implemented into the salaries of the specific employees, but also include slight increases, which would account for the extra duties. Thus, if the salary ordinance was amended, the workers salaries would decrease. That debate stirred up more confusion of whether the funds were a bonus or just missing salary amounts for the workers, but the latter was confirmed to be true by McWhirt.

Based on that information, the motion to amend the salary ordinance failed, and a new motion to pass the original salary ordinance  including bonuses  was passed to a third reading, which will be on the agenda at the next meeting, with a vote of 4-2. Poling voted against the motion, and Scott abstained.
Florida, FL (34429)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 76F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 61F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph.
Sean Fraser is a former lawyer from Nova Scotia that has served as a Canadian Member of Parliament since 2015.

Canadas new immigration minister is Sean Fraser Sean Fraser is a former lawyer from Nova Scotia that has served as a Canadian Member of Parliament since 2015.

Canadas new immigration minister is Sean Fraser Sean Fraser is a former lawyer from Nova Scotia that has served as a Canadian Member of Parliament since 2015.

Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has revealed his new cabinet this morning.

Sean Fraser is the countrys new Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

Fraser is a 37-year-old former lawyer from Nova Scotia that was first elected as a Member of Parliament in 2015. He was re-elected in 2019 and 2021. He replaces Marco Mendicino, who now becomes Canadas public safety minister. Mendicino had held the role since November 2019. Fraser represents the riding of Central Nova which covers a part of Halifax. Prior to entering politics, he practiced commercial litigation and international dispute resolution. He holds a law degree from Dalhousie University, a Masters degree in Public International Law from Leiden University in the Netherlands, and a Bachelor of Science from St. Francis Xavier University.

With cabinet set, the Liberals will continue the process of governing Canada and focus on leading the country out of the coronavirus pandemic. Parliament is set to reconvene on November 22.

The cabinet is the body of ministerial advisors that sets the federal governments policies and priorities. Each minister is given a mandate letter by the Prime Minister. The mandate letter outlines the policies and priorities that the Prime Minister would like each minister to pursue during the governments time in power.

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Trudeaus Liberal Party of Canada has governed since winning the 2015 federal election. They won a majority then, and have since won minority governments in 2019 and in the 2021 election, that took place in September. Majority governments can pass any law that they introduce in Parliament. Minority governments need the support of the opposition.

The Trudeau Liberals have continued the process of increasing immigration levels, a process that began in the late 1980s by the Conservative Party of Canada. The Liberals, however, have increased immigration levels more aggressively in recent years to provide even greater support to the Canadian economy. Shortly after assuming power in 2015, the Liberals announced they would look to welcome at least 300,000 immigrants per year, up from the roughly 250,000 annually welcomed in the previous decade by the Conservatives. Then, in October 2020, the Liberals made the stunning announcement that they would set the new baseline for immigration at over 400,000 newcomers per year. This higher goal is meant to help boost Canadas post-pandemic economy recovery.

Whats next for Canadian immigration?

In the short run, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue to pursue its top priorities. In an October 21st meeting with associations representing Canadian immigration lawyers and consultants, IRCC said their three priorities now are achieving their 401,000 new permanent residents target for 2021, family reunification, and resettling Afghan refugees.

Meanwhile, IRCC and provinces and territories will also continue to invite immigration candidates through Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Quebecs programs. Application processing will also continue.

The next major development will be Trudeau releasing new mandate letters for his ministers. The letters will guide the policy priorities of each federal department, including IRCC. In the 2021 election campaign, the Liberals made several immigration promises. For instance, they promised to end citizenship fees. They also want to reduce application processing times and make reforms to Express Entry such as offering more immigration pathways to temporary foreign workers and international students.

Based on recent precedent, the new Immigration Levels Plan will be unveiled by March 2022. This plan is usually released by November 1st each year, except following elections. The Immigration Levels Plan 2022-2024 should not contain any surprises as it will likely continue to articulate Canadas goal to welcome over 400,000 new immigrants annually.

Around that time, the federal government will also likely table Budget 2022, which may contain major government priorities on immigration.

Broadly speaking, stakeholders should expect a continuity of the Liberal partys ambitious immigration agenda that they have been pursuing since 2015. That being said, the Liberals will have major immigration issues that they will need to tackle during their new mandate. These include identifying how they will reduce application backlogs that have grown during the pandemic, potentially reforming Express Entry and the Parents and Grandparents Program, launching the Municipal Nominee Program, and waiving citizenship fees.

Despite having a lot of immigration priorities on their plate, it is relatively safe to say that the coming years will be less challenging for the federal government to manage than the previous and unprecedented 20-month pandemic period.

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Yesterdayafter two years of promising, fragile transition toward democracySudan fell victim to a military coup. Military leaders seized power, arresting Abdalla Hamdok, the civilian prime minister in a transitional government; Hamdoks office called on the Sudanese people to take to the streets, where soldiers met protesters with violence, fatally shooting at least seven people and injuring well over a hundred more. According to the information ministry, soldiers also raided the state broadcaster and detained staffers there; the Sudan Journalists Network reported that other journalists have been arrested, too. As the coup unfolded, the internet went down across swathes of the countrya tactic that recalled the intense censorship tactics of Omar al-Bashir, who held power in Sudan for thirty years prior to being toppled in 2019. The work of transitioning to press freedom in Sudan was far from complete even prior to the coup, and its prospects now look bleak. At a critical moment in the countrys history, Justin Shilad, a Middle East and North Africa researcher at the Committee to Protect Journalists, said, journalists must be free to report the news and have full access to telecommunications services to do it.

The Middle East and North Africa region, as defined by CPJ, contains six African countries aside from SudanAlgeria, Egypt, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisiaacross which the press-freedom picture looks particularly bleak right now. Of these countries, Reporters Without Borders, another press-freedom group, ranks Egypt as being the worst: the country ranks 166th on its 2021 World Press Freedom Index, out of a hundred and eighty countries and territories worldwide. As Ruth Margalit reported for CJR in 2019, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Egypts president, long ago instituted a a crackdown on fake news that may be the most brutal, and the most foreboding anywhere in the world, and RSF declared earlier this year that the country now has less press freedom than ever. Sisis regime is among the worlds most prolific jailers of journalists, and has arrested at least seven reporters on false-news and related charges this year alone. Next month, Hossam Bahgat, an investigative journalist, will go on trial for criticizing an elections official in a tweet.

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Only two of the countries listed above make the top one hundred of RSFs index. One is Mauritania, which sits in ninety-eighth place but was in the top fifty as recently as 2016. During a presidential election in 2019, officials shut off internet access and arrested numerous journalists and bloggers; despite promises, since then, to institutionalize press freedom, detentions have continued into this year. The other is Tunisia, which sits seventy-third in RSFs rankings and has, as I wrote earlier this year, been a relative success story for democracy and press freedom in the decade since the Arab Spring. The situation for journalists, however, deteriorated somewhat after Kais Saied took over as president in 2019: last year, the authorities prosecuted two bloggers who criticized Tunisias pandemic response, while in the spring, police officers broke up a protest called by staffers at the state news agency after a government ally was installed as its director. (For more background on the agency, read Layli Foroudis piece for CJR.) Then, in July, Saied sacked the prime minister and suspended Parliament; he has since sought to consolidate his personal power. In the days after the power grab began, police raided the offices of Al Jazeera and kicked out its staff, and also harassed a number of journalists in the streets, including a team from the New York Times. (Vivian Yee, a Times reporter, was subsequently granted an interview with Saied, who proceeded to lecture her on the erosion of American democracy; she wrote afterward that he had used her as a prop for a video that he posted to social media.) This month, police shuttered a TV station and arrested a host.

In neighboring Algeria, protesters who have taken to the streets, starting in 2019, to demand their own transition to democracy have met with a campaign of repression that has extended to members of the press. As I reported in February, officials there had made a habit of arresting reporters and blocking the websites of independent news outlets. At the time of that writing, the authorities had just released a few dozen activists as well as Khaled Drareni, a prominent journalist, from jail; however, in the months since, theyve detained at least twenty-five journalistsmany of whom, including Drareni again, were covering protests at the timefor spells ranging from a few hours to six months. Over the summer, officials revoked the accreditations of Al-Arabiya, a Saudi channel, and France 24, having previously accused the latter network of bias in its protest coverage; the military also broadcast a documentary on state TV accusing foreign powers, including France, of using the media to advance a conspiracy to subjugate Algeria. In August, the authorities took Lina TV, an independent channel, off the air, citing supposed licensing irregularities. Last week, Le Monde reported that officials are tightening their clampdown on dissent further still.

Of all the press-freedom violations in North Africa this year, those in Morocco have perhaps attracted the most international attention and condemnation. The country has long had a tough climate for independent journalism, but officials anti-press tactics appear to have become more insidious in recent years. Several journalists have been prosecuted on sex-crime charges that rights groupsand, in at least one case, their supposed accuserssay are bogus, a pattern that deepened over the summer when two reporters, Soulaiman Raissouni and Omar Radi, were respectively sentenced to five and six years in prison. The former became seriously unwell after initiating a hunger strike in protest of his treatment. Last year, Amnesty International found that the latters phone had previously been infected with Pegasus, a spyware tool marketed to state actors by an Israeli firm; this year, the Pegasus Projectan international journalistic collaboration coordinated by Forbidden Storiesconcluded, based on leaked data, that the Moroccan government appears to have identified thousands of people as targets for similar surveillance, including the French President Emmanuel Macron and thirty-five journalists, one of whom, a prominent French editor, found that his phone was compromised after he visited Morocco for a conference. Last week, Cole Stangler and Abdellatif El Hamamouchi reported, for The Intercept, that Moroccos surveillance apparatus is getting tougher, and doesnt stop at Pegasus. Though the Moroccan state is often regarded as less repressive than many of its neighbors, they wrote, critics at home feel that it is in the midst of a dangerous authoritarian drift.

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Of the countries listed above, the second worst on RSFs press-freedom index, one place ahead of Egypt, is Libya, where the long-serving dictator, Moammar Qaddafi, was overthrown during the Arab Spring, and killed ten years ago last week. Qaddafi oversaw an extremely restrictive media climatein his infamous Green Book, he dismissed press freedom as part of the problem of democracyand his ouster prompted an initial flowering of independent media, but the decade since has seen fresh dangers and retrenchment. Amid a brutal and messy civil war, armed militias killed, kidnapped, or otherwise abused dozens of journalists, and rival factions press-ganged news outlets into distributing favorable propaganda. Following a ceasefire, elections are finally planned for December, but the situation remains tense. Some observers have speculated that the Qaddafi dynasty might reassert itself via one of his sons, Saif al-Islam Qaddafi, who once cast himself as a modernizer but is now wanted by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity. In the summer, the younger Qaddafi granted an extraordinary interview to Robert F. Worth, of the New York Times Magazine, in which he hinted at a comeback and endorsed his fathers hardline approach. When Jehad Nga, the photographer for the piece, tried to make Saif Qaddafis portrait, Qaddafi insisted on obscuring part of his face. When Worth asked why, Qaddafi replied that he wants to return to his people slowly, like a striptease.

Yesterday, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the top general and, now, de facto leader in Sudan, which borders Libya, pledged that his country would also press ahead with elections, in 2023. Not that many people seem to believe him. This morning, the internet remained out, and protesters returned to the streets, despite the specter of a violent crackdown. Some of them chanted that returning to the past is not an option. But that increasingly looks like a reality for the pressnot just in Sudan, but in countries across North Africa and beyond. In some places, the future is looking even worse.

Below, more on press freedom:



A programming note, and an invitation: Two weeks from now, Ill be writing this newsletter from inside COP26, the vital global climate summit in Scotland, reporting and commenting on the media stories surrounding both the conference and the climate crisis itself. If you or your news organization is headed to COP, Id love to hear about your coverage plans (especially if youre lining up something innovative) or just to say hi. If you arent heading to COP, Id love to hear about what youre looking for from others coverage of the conference, or any thoughts you may have on the state of climate journalism generally. You can reach me at [email protected]



Other notable stories:

ICYMI: Top outlets (sort of) team up to make Facebooks awful month worse

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Jon Allsop is a freelance journalist whose work has appeared in the New York Review of Books, Foreign Policy, and The Nation, among other outlets. He writes CJRs newsletter The Media Today. Find him on Twitter @Jon_Allsop.
Insurers continue to prevail in the vast majority of lawsuits that seek business-interruption coverage for income lost during COVID-19 shutdowns, but a small minority of state court judges are taking a contrary view.

On Monday, Cook County Circuit Court Judge Raymond W. Mitchell denied a motion by Continental Casualty Co. that asked him to reconsider his decision in August not to dismiss a lawsuit filed against the insurer by JDS Construction Group and 9 Dekalb Fee Owner against Continental Casualty Co. Lawyers for Continental cited numerous decisions by courts in Illinois and New York that found SARS-CoV-2 does not cause a direct physical loss of or damage to property.

Judges are not sheep, and I do not decide a case by counting noses, Mitchell wrote in his order denying the motion. Further, the herd can be wrong.

JDS and 9 Dekalb alleged that virus particles were physically present on their properties, both on surfaces and in the air. Mitchell said in his order that virus contamination physically changes a property, which constitutes physical loss and damage.

Mitchell acknowledged that many courts have reached a contrary conclusions, but he said that Continentals argument was an appeal to herding behaviora process by which group-think replaces individual decision making.

The Cohen Ziffer Frenchman & McKenna law firm represented the plaintiffs.

We are thrilled with Judge Mitchells well-reasoned order affirming his denial of Continentals motion to dismiss and are appreciative that the court disregarded the carriers bid for herd dismissal based on differently plead cases lacking precedential value and/or resolvingat the pleadings stagedisputed facts about an evolving and novel coronavirus, attorney Robin Cohen said in a statement.

Judges in Stark County, Ohio and Hennepin County, Minnesota also issued decisions this month that sided with policyholders pursuing COVID-19 business-interruption claims. However, out of 22 court decisions issued in October, those rulings were the only ones that did not grant insurer motions to dismiss, according to a COVID-19 litigation tracker maintained by the University of Pennsylvania law school.

In the Ohio case, McKinley Development Leasing Co. sought coverage from Westfield Insurance Co. for rental income lost because of government orders that forced tenants of 12 commercial properties in North Canton to temporarily shut down. Judge Frank G. Forchione denied Westfields motion to dismiss the lawsuit in February and granted a partial summary judgment in favor of McKinley on Oct. 14.

Forchione said in his order that a microorganism exclusion in the policy did not clearly exclude loss of property caused by a government closure. The ruling says that the policy issued by Westfield was ambiguous because it did not define direct physical loss or damage, so he was required to find in favor of the policyholder.

While some jurists may think it is easier not to take a stand in situations like this where the law is still developing, our Stark County Court is willing to put in the time and the effort, and has the intellectual curiosity and fortitude, to make substantive rulings, attorney Lee Plakas, with Plakas and Mannos law firm in Canton, stated in a press release.

In Minnesota, Hennepin County District Court Judge Kristen A. Siegesmind on Oct. 7 denied a motion by Zurich American Insurance Co. to dismiss a lawsuit seeking coverage for COVID-19 closures filed by Life Time Inc., which owns a chain of fitness centers. The company has purchased a builders risk policy from Zurich that covered 19 fitness centers that were under construction in various locations around the country.

Siegesmind cited Minnesota appellate court decisions that found coverage was owed for a building that became contaminated with asbestos, grain that could not be sold because it has been exposed to an unapproved pesticide and dried egg powder that had been damaged by smoke.

These three cases are instructive in the present situation because none of them require structural damage to property, Siegesmind said in her order. All of them found coverage when there had been contamination that resulted in a loss of function or value.

State court judges have dismissed 94 out of 142 COVID-19 business-interruption claims filed since the outbreak of the pandemic, according to the UPenn litigation tracker. Federal court judges have dismissed 417 out of 498 cases filed. UPenn says 2,042 COVID-19 lawsuits had been filed as of Tuesday morning.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  A camera operator told authorities that Alec Baldwin had been careful with weapons on the set of the film Rust before the actor shot and killed a cinematographer with a gun hed been told was safe to use, court records released Sunday show.

Cameraman Reid Russell told a detective that Baldwin was rehearsing a scene Thursday in which he was set to draw his gun while sitting in a church pew and point it at the camera. Russell said he was unsure whether the weapon was checked before it was handed to Baldwin.

The camera wasnt rolling when the gun went off, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, Russell told a detective according to a search warrant affidavit.

Authorities said Friday that the assistant director, Dave Halls, had handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced cold gun, indicating it was safe to use. When asked about how Baldwin treated firearms on the set, Russell said the actor was very careful, citing an instance when Baldwin made sure a child actor was not near him when a gun was being discharged.

The affidavit released Sunday also includes statements by director Joel Souza, who was standing behind Hutchins and was wounded.

It detailed the moments before the shooting and shows that there was turmoil on the set the day of the shooting. Several members of the camera crew walked off the production in a dispute over payment and lodging, Russell said, and he was left with a lot of work to do. Only one camera was available to shoot, and it had to be moved because the light had shifted and there was a shadow.

Souza said that he was focused on how the scene would appear on camera. He said he recalled hearing the phrase cold gun being used before the shooting.

He said the scene they were shooting did not call for the use of live rounds.

Souza described the gunshot as sounding like a whip and a loud pop.

On Sunday, a crew member who worked with Halls on another project said she had raised safety concerns about him in 2019.

Maggie Goll, a prop maker and licensed pyrotechnician, said in a statement that she filed an internal complaint with the executive producers of Hulus Into the Dark series in 2019 over concerns about Halls behavior on set. Goll said in a phone interview Sunday that Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician lost consciousness on set.

Halls has not returned phone calls and email messages seeking comment.

The fatal shooting and previous experiences point to larger safety issues that need to be addressed, Goll said, adding that crew member safety and wellbeing were top issues in recent contract negotiations between a union that represents film and TV workers and a major producers group.

This situation is not about Dave Halls.  Its in no way one persons fault, she said. Its a bigger conversation about safety on set and what we are trying to achieve with that culture.

The films chief electrician Serge Svetnoy blamed producers for Hutchins death in an emotional Facebook post on Sunday. Svetnoy said he had worked with Hutchins on multiple films and faulted negligence and unprofessionalism among those handling weapons on the set. He said producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

Hollywood professionals say theyre baffled by the circumstances and production crews have quickly stepped up safety measures.

Jeffrey Wright, who has worked on projects including the James Bond franchise and the upcoming movie The Batman, was acting with a weapon on the set of Westworld when news broke of the shooting Thursday at a New Mexico ranch. We were all pretty shocked. And it informed what we did from that moment on, he said in an interview Sunday at the Newport Beach Film Festival.

I dont recall ever being handed a weapon that was not cleared in front of me _ meaning chamber open, barrel shown to me, light flashed inside the barrel to make sure that its cleared, Wright said. Clearly, that was a mismanaged set.

Actor Ray Liotta agreed with Wright that the checks on firearms are usually extensive.

They always  that I know of  they check it so you can see, Liotta said. They give it to the person youre pointing the gun at, they do it to the producer, they show whoever is there that it doesnt work.

A vigil for Hutchins was held Sunday in Southern California, where attendees exchanged tearful hugs and speakers echoed calls for heightened safety standards.

Baldwin, who is known for his roles in 30 Rock and The Hunt for Red October and his impression of former President Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live, has described the killing as a tragic accident.

Flaccus reported from Portland, Oregon. Michelle Eaton in Newport Beach, California, contributed to this report.

About the photo: A security guard manning the entrance to the Bonanza Creek Ranch film set locks the gate after turning away workers who came to pick up equipment in Santa Fe, N.M., Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. A camera operator told authorities that Alec Baldwin had been careful with weapons on the set of the film Rust. Baldwin shot and killed a cinematographer with a gun hed been told was safe to use, court records released Sunday show. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
Avis "Darlene" Searan, age 75, formerly of California, passed away at Restwell Home Plus in Oskaloosa, KS, on Tuesday, November 16, 2021. She was born the daughter of Leo Abraham and Avis Amelia (Gabbert) Searan in Claremore, OK, on June 25, 1946. Darlene loved watching baseball, especially,
There were more than 2,000 reported antisemitic incidents in Germany in 2020 and just under 2,000 the previous year. Thats around or five or six incidents, some of them involving violence or verbal abuse, every day.

If that number is sobering, bear in mind that it is definitely an underestimate because so many antisemitic outrages go unreported. Studies of this particular problem reveal different motives among victims for not reporting their ordeals. Some dont believe that what they experienced would warrant police time, some feel a sense of shame or embarrassment, and many fear that going to police would lead to them becoming victims of further reprisals.

Against this background, its ironic that the most discussed antisemitic incident in Germany of late  at least since the 2019 attack by a neo-Nazi gunman on a synagogue in the city of Halle during Yom Kippur  is one that might not have happened. I say might since police are still investigating the incident, though evidence published in the German media over the last week certainly raises questions over the original complaint of antisemitic discrimination.

The individual at the center of the controversy, Gil Ofarim, is a well-known Jewish musician in Germany whose father is an Israeli. As was reported in myriad news outlets around the world, earlier this month he was in Leipzig, where hed reserved a room at the citys Westin hotel. As an ashen-faced Ofarim explained in an Instagram video that went viral, moments earlier he had been told by a hotel employee to pack up your star if he wanted to get checked in. Throughout the video, he displayed the Star of David pendant around his neck that sparked the employees alleged remark, telling viewers that he wore it all the time.

The outpouring of sympathy was immediate and generous. Some commentators observed acidly that less than a century ago, Ofarim would have been beaten, arrested and thrown into a concentration camp for not wearing a Star of David on the streets of a German city. The night after Ofarim publicized his account of what happened at the Westin, more than 600 protesters gathered outside the hotel for a spontaneous demonstration against antisemitism.

In the meantime, the Central Council of Jews in Germany declared its solidarity with Ofarim, while the countrys federal anti-discrimination agency warned the Westin that there would be consequences to this act of antisemitic discrimination. As for the hotel, the antics of its senior management seemed to only worsen what was already a public-relations disaster. The morning after Ofarims video appeared online, a group of employees gathered outside hotel to unfurl a banner which showed the national flag of the State of Israel alongside a star and crescent symbol representing Islam. This ham-fisted attempt to press home a message of inclusivity simply demonstrated, as one Jewish leader argued, the lack of understanding that Jews are a part of German society.

Later the same day, as demonstrators gathered outside the hotel, a couple of the journalists among the crowd noticed that a particular private security firm had been hired to guard the hotels entrance. The firm, Pro-GSL Security, is known for its links with the neo-Nazi scene in Leipzig, often providing muscle for demonstrations and rallies organized by far-right and anti-immigrant organizations.

As the controversy wore on, the hotel insisted that Ofarims account of what had happened was essentially fabricated. This led its growing army of critics to ask why an apology to the musician hadnt been forthcoming, instead of what appeared to be increasingly desperate claims of innocence.

Then, nearly two weeks after Ofarims original claim, the story took an unexpected twist.

Last Wednesday, images from the CCTV video of the hotels reception area showing Ofarim attempting to check in were published throughout the German press, likely leaked by the Westin hotel that had just concluded an internal investigation that deemed its employee to be innocent of the accusations of antisemitism. What stood out in these images was the fact that Ofarims Star of David necklace was nowhere to be seen. When the exact words used by Ofarim on Instagram were recalled  I was standing in the line wearing my necklace which is my right and which I have worn all my life  this new evidence seemed damning indeed. Speculation soon followed in the German media that there was a reason no witnesses had come forward; there had been nothing to report.

Ofarims response was to double down. There was nonetheless a notable shift in his story; whether or not he had been wearing his pendant was not the issue, he said, and he couldnt remember if hed worn it over or under his shirt that particular evening. The Star of David pendant was part of his public image, he argued, and the employee had made the comment about packing it up because they had known this about him.

In an interview last Thursday with Germanys Stern TV, Ofarim confirmed he was pursuing his complaint against the Westin. He confessed he had been deeply saddened by the abuse thrown at him  some of it openly antisemitic  on social media since the CCTV images were published, and he worried his experience might dissuade other Jews from reporting harassment or discrimination.

Before speculating over whether or not Ofarim is telling the truth, it should be borne in mind that police investigation is not over, that the Westin hotel has kept its internal 118-page report into the incident private, that we have only seen a handful of CCTV images and that, crucially, there is no audio recording that could confirm whether or not the employee really did tell him to pack up his star. Unless there is another twist in this story, its distinctly possible that the outcome will be one in which lack of empirical evidence leaves Ofarims complaint in the dust.

Now, I dont know much about Ofarim, but I do know celebrities are vulnerable to a certain type of star paranoia and that they can be opportunistic when it comes to the media. If this is the case here, then it will be a gift to those who believe that antisemitism is just a cynical means for Jews to morally blackmail non-Jews.

Still, Ofarim is correct when he worries that Jews who encounter antisemitism in their daily lives may be even more reluctant to report it, having heard about seen his experience. For if inaccuracies surface in the victims account or a lack of evidence gives the perpetrators an edge, then the response of the media and much of the public is harsh and unforgiving, as Ofarim has just discovered. Ofarim has certainly achieved one thing, wrote the German journalist Matthias Hochstatter. He has shown that antisemitism in Germany is still firmly in the minds of Germans 75 years after the Holocaust. The problem is that in many of those minds  40%, according to a World Jewish Congress poll in 2019  Jews talk about the Holocaust too much, and that also  22% of respondents in the same pollpeople hate Jews due to the way they behave.

This is the environment into which Ofarims claims of antisemitism, along with the Westin hotels counter-claims, have been catapulted. Either way, rest assured that those daily incidents I mentioned at the beginning wont be the end of such statistics.

Ben Cohen, senior editor of TheTower.org & The Tower Magazine, writes a weekly column for JNS.org on Jewish affairs and Middle Eastern politics from New York.
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Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 25)  An order suspending a controversial vehicle inspection policy released through an online messaging app drew the ire of a lawmaker and an industry group.

Instead of a formal memorandum, the Land Transportation Office chief admitted on Monday the suspension of the mandatory testing by Private Motor Vehicle Inspection Centers (PMVIC) was earlier made through an online messaging app,

Iyon pong written memo is to be issued pero po via Viber, doon sa aming mga RDs (regional directors), sinabihan na po sila na ipatupad agad para 'di na po madelay, huwag na po antayin 'yung written, LTO chief Assistant Secretary Edgar Galvante said during a Senate finance subcommittee hearing on the Department of Transportations proposed 2022 budget.

[Translation: The written memo is to be issued but via Viber, we already asked our regional directors to no longer wait for it but implement (the suspension) immediately in order to avoid a delay.]

Rosendo So, chairman of the Samahang Industriya ng Agrikultura, shared that in Pangasinan, the suspension order was not carried out on the ground due to confusion caused by the lack of a memorandum

Senator Grace Poe, who led the budget hearing, scolded the LTO for what she calls a very unprofessional" move.

Im sure its not very difficult if you are actually committed to this to draft a one-pager saying we are suspending memo circular whatever of October 6 Therefore, motorists can have a choice whether to go to a PETC (Private Emission Testing Center) or a PMVIC, Poe said.

Hours after the hearing, the LTO complied and issued a memorandum.

"In line with the order of the DOTr Secretary making PMVIC inspection optional, the subject memoranda directing the mandatory inspection by PMVICs of covered vehicles in LTMS (Land Transportation Management System) sites with PMVIC is hereby suspended until further notice," the memo signed by Galvante read.

Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade said he made it clear that the PETCs and PMVICs should coexist for the benefit of the riding public. He said there may have been a lapse in communication.

The contested policy which made roadworthiness checks by PMVICs a requirement for vehicle registration was first suspended in February only to be revived months later, to the dismay of motorists and lawmakers.

On August 24, the Senate passed a resolution condemning the return of the policy, after Poe presented videos of crowding in some inspection centers due to protests. The measure authored by Poe listed some of the issues against PMVICs, including the hefty inspection fees, inadequate number of inspection centers, and lack of transparency in concession agreements, among others. That same day, the DOTr again ordered LTO to suspend implementation.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 25)  San Miguel Corporation installed the second batch of train sets for the Metro Rail Transit Line 7 (MRT-7) project over the weekend.

"Similar to the first two train sets that arrived last September, these were mounted on the MRT-7 tracks between University Avenue and Tandang Sora, last Oct. 23 and Oct. 24. The entire MRT system will have a total of 108 cars," the conglomerate said in a statement on Monday.

READ: First train sets for MRT-7 project installed

Work continues non-stop on the MRT-7 project, so we can meet our target start of operations by end of 2022. Im glad to report that were on track to meet all the key milestones we expect this year, SMC president Ramon S. Ang said in the statement.

SMC said the project is 56.03% complete and it is looking forward to start operations by the end of 2022. MRT-7 is seen to serve commuters from North Avenue in Quezon City to San Jose de Monte, Bulacan.

On its first year of operation, the MRT-7 is estimated to accommodate 300,000 passengers per day, with a maximum projection of 850,000 passengers per day on its 12th year of operation. Once complete, the MRT-7 will reduce travel time from Quezon City to Bulacan to just 35 minutes.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  President Rodrigo Duterte welcomes the Senates decision to question before the Supreme Court his memorandum directing Cabinet members to ignore the chambers summons amid its probe into the governments procurement of medical supplies for COVID-19 response.

At last, the members of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee have finally seen the light. We welcome this move of bringing the legality of the memorandum to the Supreme Court, Duterte said in his address aired Monday night.

This is, by far, the most decent thing the committee has done, and we are most eager to answer whatever questions you have regarding my not allowing officials of the executive to attend your hearings, he added.

Early this month, Duterte signed the memorandum barring officials of the executive department from attending the Senate panel's hearings.

He has repeatedly criticized senators for requiring Cabinet members to attend hearings, saying it hampers the governments pandemic response.

Senators said Dutertes memo is unconstitutional.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra expressed willingness to review Dutertes memo, but stressed the need for both sides to make adjustments.

In his public address Monday night, Duterte again attacked Senator Richard Gordon, chairperson of the Blue Ribbon Committee investigating the governments purchase of medical supplies.

Ito dapat si Gordon maglipat dapat sa judiciary kasi doon sya magsigaw-sigaw... this is not feudal times, you have to be courteous. If you want to be treated with courtesy, you have to practice it, the President said.

[Translation: Gordon should transfer to the judiciary where he could scream.]
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  The Department of Environment and Natural Resources will carry out several changes to prevent another instance of overcrowding and possible COVID-19 superspreader event at the Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach.

The agency on Tuesday said it will refine its guidelines after 121,000 visitors flocked to the controversial artificial beach on Sunday when the limit should be 4,000 at a given time.

DENR Undersecretary Jonas Leones said children under 12 years old are not allowed to enter.

Minors aged 12-17 can go to the dolomite beach, with DENR explaining COVID-19 vaccination is ongoing in this age group. However, authorities will not require them to present vaccination cards  placing the responsibility on the parents or guardians.

"For those 12 years and above, wala kaming ni-require. Whether it's a vaccinated person o hindi pa, they can still enter the dolomite beach," he said in a media briefing.

[Translation: We don't require anything from those aged 12 years old and above. They can enter the dolomite beach whether they're vaccinated or not.]

Leones said limiting the age of children allowed to enter will help limit the number of visitors especially on weekends.

However, the Metro Manila Council has repeatedly said minors aged 17 and below are prohibited from going out for non-essential trips.

Persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women will be allotted a special lane at the beachfront.

Aside from closing the attraction on Fridays for maintenance work, the DENR will also carry out a rotation system when accepting guests.

Leones said only 4,000 guests will be accepted and they can only stay for a maximum of two hours. They will be asked to leave, then another batch of guests will be allowed to enjoy the artificial white sand beach undergoing rehabilitation. He added they are also planning to give out stubs, like in cinemas, to ensure only a limited number of guests can enter.

"After two hours, they'll leave. We will be asking them to leave, and then we will be given time to prepare the area for one hour, then we're ready to accept another batch of 4,000 individuals to enter. Beforehand, meron nang notice na itong oras sila pupunta [They will be given an appointment time], there will be no need for long queues outside the dolomite," the official said.

The Department of Health on Monday issued a stern reminder to the Manila City local government and concerned national agencies to regulate and even revise its process if it cannot control the crowd. Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire noted that the officials overseeing the dolomite beach violated the capacity allowed for outdoor spaces.

"Sinabi kapag Alert Level 3, ang outdoors natin 50% capacity. 'Yung nakita natin nung weekend, hindi po 'yun 50% capacity," she said.

[Translation: If it's Alert Level 3, outdoor spaces are allowed 50% capacity. What we saw over the weekend was not 50% capacity.]

Manila Mayor Isko Moreno urged the national government's pandemic response task force to file charges against DENR.

The national government pushed for the opening of the Manila Baywalk Dolomite Beach in September 2020, with Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque saying the white sand will help Filipinos' mental health amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, October 26)  OCTA Research on Tuesday tagged Metro Manila as low risk for COVID-19 as new cases continued to decline.

The seven-day case average in the National Capital Region (NCR) went down to 901 this week from 1,405 recorded the previous week, OCTA Researcher Guido David said on Twitter.

The positivity rate, which is the percentage of all coronavirus tests performed that turn out to be positive, went down to 6% this week from 7% recorded last week. The World Health Organization earlier said the ideal percentage is below 5%.

NCR's healthcare utilization rate was 35% while its intensive care unit (ICU) occupancy rate stood at 46% as of Oct. 24.

Its average daily attack rate, defined as the number of infected people per 100,000 population, is currently at 7.

David said 14 of the localities in NCR are under low risk while Mandaluyong, San Juan, and Valenzuela are still under moderate risk as their average daily attack rate is above 10.

Officials earlier said the higher the attack rate in an area, the higher a person's risk of getting the infectious disease there.

David said OCTA's metrics to assess a location's overall risk level are based on indicators from the U.S. nonprofit Covid Act Now and the Department of Health.

The latest DOH analysis announced on Monday showed Metro Manila is under moderate risk for COVID-19. But the country's overall classification is low risk, the department said.

With the lower classification, David reminded Filipinos that NCR will not always remain under low risk especially if people are not careful.

"If people are not careful or people are complacent...we could possibly see a return to moderate risk or even high risk. That is why it's important for us to strictly follow health protocols and we should be careful in crowded places," he told CNN Philippines.

A low risk classification does not automatically mean that the Alert Level 3 status in Metro Manila could be lowered to two or one, David added.

He said there still other factors - like vaccination rate - that should be considered before the alert level is eased further.
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.
Click on the link "CLICK HERE" below. This will redirect you to a login page. If you have already registered please log in, otherwise you will need to create an online account to proceed.

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At Step 3: Login using your Name exactly as it appears on your mailing label and the account number needs to be input without the leading zeros.
Halloween is Sunday  and there are plenty of activities happening in the State College area throughout the week to get in the spirit.

Here is a list of events that will put anyone in a ghoulish mood.

Tuesday

Halloween Trunk or Treat and Car Parade

The Trunk or Treat Car Parade event is happening from 4-6 p.m. in Juniper Village at Brookline, Rehabilitation & Skilled Care in State College.

The parade welcomes community members to decorate their vehicles for Halloween and open their trunks afterward for trick-or-treating. Families are welcome to come trick or treat as well.

To drive in the parade, make a reservation. For trick-or-treaters, no reservation is required.

Halloween Costume Parade

Centre Region Parks and Recreation will host its 75th annual Halloween Costume Parade at 6:30 p.m. Step off is at 7 p.m. on Burrowes Road.

There are seven different costume categories for judging  which will take place at State College Area School Districts Memorial Field.

The State College Lions Foundation will provide cash prizes and candy treats.

Astronomy on Taps Haunted Space Instruments

From 6-8 p.m. at Happy Valley Brewing Company, local astronomers will talk about instruments theyre using in space  including the Spooky, Scary SpiderWebb and The BlackCAT CubeSat.

There will be non-science trivia and prizes, and those under 21 are welcome to attend as well.

Wednesday

All-Sports Museum Trick or Treat

Located at the ground level of Beaver Stadium, the Penn State All-Sports Museum will host its 12th annual Trick or Treat Night from 6-8 p.m.

Student-athletes will hand out candy in front of the museum on Curtin Road.

Open to the community, the event is free, and in the event of inclement weather, the rain date is scheduled for Thursday.

Thursday

Harner Farm Haunted Flashlight Maze

While this event has already started, the flashlight maze event will continue from 7-10 p.m. on Thursday and Friday at Harner Farm, which is located on West Whitehill Road in State College.

In partnership with Delta Zeta, the Haunted Flashlight Maze is $8 admission to benefit the Starkey Hearing Foundation  an organization that educates those helping others learn to hear.

Participants must enter the maze by 9 p.m., and flashlights are required. Cider and other foods will be available.

Blue & White Society events

There are two events hosted by Blue & White Society: Boo & White and Pumpkin Party.

Boo & White will occur from 12-3 p.m. at Old Mains patio. All are welcome to participate in activities, including taking pictures in a photobooth and eating food provided.

The Pumpkin Party will be at 7 p.m. at the Hintz Family Alumni Center. Members of Blue & White Society are welcome to pumpkin carving, movies, games and food.

Friday

Spooky Stories Virtual Read-a-Thon

Occurring from 6 p.m. to midnight, the free Virtual Read-a-Thon by Tempest Productions, a professional and educational theatre company, will showcase spooky stories for all ages.

There will be stories for elementary school ages at 6 p.m., stories for middle school ages at 7 p.m., American literature spooky classics from 8-10 p.m. and the rest of the evening will include modern horror stories.

The event will take place on Zoom  accessible from the Central PA Theatre and Dance Fest website.

Saturday

Good Shepherd Catholic Church Fall Festival

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Church of the Good Shepherd in Port Matilda will host a fall festival.

It will feature a wide variety of craft items for sale and raffle gift baskets. Lunch will also be available.

Talleyrand Fall Fest and Annual Halloween Parade

Bellefonte Sunrise Rotary Club will host a fall festival and Halloween parade from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Talleyrand Park.

There will be a variety of activities  including kids games, inflatables, hayrides and vendors. Food and a craft beverage tasting tent will also be at the event.

Sunday

Halloween Hustle Costume 5K Fun Run/Walk

The Halloween Hustle 5K will be hosted by The ACRES Project, a local nonprofit for adults with autism, and Alpha Xi Delta at 11 a.m. in the Sidney Friedman Parklet.

A costume contest, kid-friendly crafts, candy and a 5K walk/run will occur. Advanced registration is required and will cost $20.

All who are registered will get a free T-shirt, and all registration fees are going toward The ACRES Project.

Bacardi Party Tour

From 9 p.m. to midnight at The Basement, the Halloween concert is a part of the Bacardi Party Tour featuring Loud Luxury, a DJ duo.

This is a 21 and over event that is free and RSVP only.

State College is the third stop on the tour of major game day towns. There will be sweepstakes, cocktails and more in celebration of Halloween.

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After a year and a half in a virtual or hybrid classroom, Penn State students largely switched back to in-person classes this fall, which has affected motivation levels and time management skills for some.

Sarah Bett described her experience transitioning back to in-person classes as 100% an adjustment.

Bett (senior-Spanish and community, environment and development) said after being on Zoom for over a year, she got used to virtual learning.

I feel like there are aspects of being in person that I just hadnt remembered, Bett said.

Paige Grabusky said she prefers in-person classes because there are fewer distractions while learning.

When Im online, its like Im just watching, Grabusky (freshman-biobehavioral health) said. Its just easier to learn.

And, Kyle Antioco-Dunn said he agrees because hes more of a hands-on learner  which is why he prefers in-person to Zoom classes.

I feel like I am able to engage with the teacher and the materials more, Antioco-Dunn (freshman-kinesiology) said.

Antioco-Dunn also added that being in the classroom makes it easier to retain information taught by the teacher.

He said his motivation has been elevated more during in-person class compared to Zoom classes.

The chance of being put on the spot or being called on in front of your peers  its not the most fun thing to do, Antioco-Dunn said. Just get [the homework] done  at least you can say something [in class].

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Sara Cross said her motivation going into in-person classes really differed from her motivation during a virtual format.

Being in person, going into some of my classes, I have to know the information in order to participate in the activities going on in class, Cross (freshman-kinesiology) said.

Cross said having her senior year of high school on Zoom made her appreciate having in-person classes this year.

Now, actually physically being in the classroom, I feel like I have to focus because the teacher is right there, Cross said.

Carly Ross said she noticed her motivation to finish homework stayed the same during virtual and in-person learning because the due dates and materials are the same.

Just because a class is held over Zoom doesnt mean [the grades] are more lenient, Ross (junior-advertising) said.

In contradiction, Grabusky said she noticed a huge difference in her litigation between virtual and in-person classes.

Going back to in person, Id say it increased my motivation and willingness to learn, Grabusky said.

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Alicia Kim said physically being in a classroom is a large motivator to get her homework done on time.

Deadlines when I have in-person class, I feel like, Oh, I have to get this done, whereas in Zoom Im like, Oh, I can wait a bit, Kim (freshman-biology) said.

However, Cassidy Kaess said she doesnt have a preference when it comes to Zoom classes or being in an actual classroom.

I pay attention more in in person, but I really dont care about which one [Im in], Kaess (sophomore-hospitality management) said.

Cross said she had to get used to a lot of things, mainly taking notes when transitioning back to in-person classes.

[Note-taking] definitely was an adjustment, but I picked it back up pretty quickly, Cross said.

In-person classes led to a busier schedule, Cross said, because she  like many other students  have to walk to class, which takes up a larger period of time.

I have to factor in the walking time and making sure I get to the dining hall for breakfast and stuff, Cross said.

For Shawn Cooper, the transition to in-person classes was a lot more difficult than transitioning to Zoom classes.

Getting back into a regular routine  like where Im getting up earlier and always being around people, where I was used to [learning] by myself, Cooper (freshman-computer science) said, took some time to get used to again.

The most common theme, though, was an increase in busy schedules this fall.

I have more of a schedule, Grabusky said. And not even with just classes, now clubs are meeting in person.

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Penn State University officials denounced the messages, writings, activism and planned visit of British alt-right political commentator Milo Yiannopoulos Monday in an official statement.

Invited by and to be hosted by Uncensored America, one of Penn States many student-run organizations, Yiannopoulos is scheduled to visit campus Nov. 3.

Vice President and General Counsel Steve Dunham, Vice President for Student Affairs Damon Sims and Vice Provost for Educational Equity Marcus Whitehurst labeled Yiannopoulos as offensive and hurtful, a social provocateur with values antithetical to Penn States that deliberately create controversy, hurt and disruption, in the statement.

But Dunham, Sims and Whitehurst said the university will not be taking action against Yiannopoulos.

As a public university, we are fundamentally and unalterably obligated under the U.S. Constitutions First Amendment to protect various expressive rights, even for those whose viewpoints offend our basic institutional values, Dunham, Sims and Whitehurst said. To do so otherwise not only violates the Constitution, but would undermine the basic freedom each of us shares to generally think and express ourselves as we wish.

Though it lacks the right to do anything to stop it, Dunham, Sims and Whitehurst said the university encourages its community to take action against the messages of Yiannopoulos  action through inaction.

Make that opposition known by uniting against Yiannopoulos in the most effective way possible  by ignoring him, Dunham, Sims and Whitehurst said in the statement. Unify as an empathetic, compassionate and thoughtful university community that stands as one, purposeful in its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, and in its determination to silence hate mongers by turning our backs on them and denying the attention they seek.

The three encouraged students to instead express support, care and empathy to the targets of Yiannopoulos messages.

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Penn State student Jacob Ehrbaker started a Change.org petition Monday in response to British alt-right political commentator Milo Yiannopoulos' planned campus visit.

Yiannopoulos is scheduled to visit campus Nov. 3, and he was invited by Uncensored America, one of Penn States many student-run organizations.

The petition titled "End Hate Speech at Penn State University Park" alleged the "Pray the Gay Away" posters up in the HUB-Robeson Center advertising the event can be considered hate speech by themselves.

"Many of us were appalled to see a poster stating 'Pray the Gay Away,' promoting an event speaker promoting gay conversion therapy," the petition said. "Implying that one needs to 'pray the gay away' means that homosexuality is a choice and implies it is the wrong choice. This is not the message that we should be sending students or prospective students touring the campus for the first time."

As the event was partially funded by the University Park Allocation Committee with money from student tuition, the petition alleged LGTBQ students "are having their own tuition money used to promote hate speech against themselves."

The petition said it is "incredibly insulting" university funds are being used for Yiannopoulos' visit.

"On top of this notion, the entire speech promotes gay conversion therapy, which is physically, mentally and emotionally abusive," the petition said. "Conversion therapy should be banned, as it already is in State College, but promoting these homophobic ideologies should not be allowed in a public university."

On Monday, Penn State University officials denounced the messages, writings, activism and planned visit of Yiannopoulos.

Vice President and General Counsel Steve Dunham, Vice President for Student Affairs Damon Sims and Vice Provost for Educational Equity Marcus Whitehurst labeled Yiannopoulos as offensive and hurtful, a social provocateur with values antithetical to Penn States that deliberately create controversy, hurt and disruption, in the statement.

However, Dunham, Sims and Whitehurst said the university will not be taking action against Yiannopoulos.

The petition encouraged Penn State to remove the posters and "uninvite" Yiannopoulos from campus. As of 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, the petition garnered 2,610 signatures out of its 5,000 goal.

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The University Park Undergraduate Association, Lion PRIDE and Queer and Trans People of Color released a joint statement on Tuesday to "strongly condemn" the message of an upcoming on-campus event with speaker Milo Yiannopoulos.

The event called Pray the Gay Away" will take place on Nov. 3 in 101 Thomas Building, hosted by student group Uncensored America. Yiannopoulos identifies as an ex-gay," according to the statement, and often speaks about anti-LGBTQ matters.

He is a supporter of conversion therapy and shames Islam, feminism, and social justice, the statement said.

"Bigotry and discrimination have no place at Penn State, and the university must take the necessary steps to combat hate speech and protect the LGBTQIA+ community," the statement said.

Leaders from the organization called advertisements promoting the event trauma-inducing for victims of discrimination and impactful on mental health.

According to the statement, Yiannopoulos has had prior events canceled at other universities due to threats of potential violence. The University of California Berkeley had to "evacuate" Yiannopoulos from its campus after a "violent attack and destruction of property" in 2017, according to Berkeley News.

Additionally, Yiannopoulos was uninvited to the Conservative Political Action Conference in 2017 following accusations of his pedophelia advocation.

On Monday night, Penn State denounced Yiannopoulos's visit, calling him "offensive and hurtful" and a "social provocateur."

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In order to accommodate recent staffing shortages, Penn State Dining announced it is temporarily changing the hours and availability of certain on-campus dining locations starting Oct. 16.

According to Jim Richard, director of residential dining, the time adjustments were made in order to maintain the variety and high quality foods that our customers have come to expect while also attempting to minimize disruption.

South Food District in Redifer Commons will operate on a Monday through Friday basis and it opened In A Pickle, a deli-oriented restaurant, on Oct. 25. Students who want to take part in the All You Care To Eat brunch have been advised to go to the Pollock Dining Commons.

The North Food District will also close on Saturdays, but the North Market Convenience Store will remain open under its regular weekend hours of 9 a.m. to midnight.

While it may be an inconvenience for students to now have to walk farther to get a meal, workers shouldnt be expected to have to deal with the influx of students from other dining halls while understaffed.

Customer service is an already demanding industry but coupled with classes and extracurriculars, perhaps workers are realizing theyre worth more than what theyre being compensated for.

Campus Dining positions pay $12 an hour, with $2 employee meals and the ability to have a flexible schedule, while also having the opportunity for promotions. $12 an hour is obviously a step up from Pennsylvanias $7.25 minimum wage but considering the amount of work asked of Campus Dining employees, that figure may not be enough to draw the attention of new workers.

If Penn State is unwilling to pay employees more, then it shouldnt come as a shock if they dont want to work. The staffing shortage should be a telltale sign of a flawed system.

For the sheer amount that tuition costs at Penn State  tuition that is now raised  along with other expenses such as housing and groceries, the current pay scale is unsustainable. Theres no reason the university cannot put more resources into dining and food services, and raise the pay to $15 an hour.

This isnt just a student employee issue as there are plenty of full-time employees who are trying to make a living off of these positions. The cost of living in State College is far from affordable, with the average affordable monthly cost for an apartment in the area coming in at $603.

For perspective, if full-time employees are receiving $12 an hour, they would have to work 12.5 hours a week, four days a week to simply pay their rent  no other expenses included. That's only around 3 hours per day, though the demand is difficult for a full-time student who is taking classes on top of involvement with extracurricular opportunities and additional spending needs like groceries, utilities, travel, and tuition.

Even something as simple as making employee meals free could serve as some form of an incentive to bring in workers.

If pay isnt the issue, then maybe the customers are becoming it. While everyone might be in a rush to get their food, theres no reason for attitude to be given to employees who are just trying to make ends meet.

If anything, the pandemic may have led employees to realize their worth, and after being indoors almost all of last year, maybe they want to catch up on what they missed out on, especially for third and fourth year students. For them, an on-campus job might not be of importance.

But some dont have the luxury. And because of that, its imperative that Penn State make the pay respectable and create an environment that will welcome those looking for work.

This burden shouldnt be placed on management as these efforts show its trying to make the most out of the staffing shortage. However, trying to avoid disruption has now become a nuisance for other dining halls as lines begin to grow longer, forcing the already shortened staffs to take on more customers than normal.

There is also the emphasis in the modern day on mental health, something that Penn State often preaches about. College is the usual time that people aged 18-21 develop eating disorders, including 10-20% of women and 4-10% of men. A closed buffet could contribute to a students disorder as they may see it as a reason to avoid a meal. The university should do all it can to fill positions to avoid any potential situations that fuel a negative mentality.

This isnt just a Penn State or collegiate issue as U.S. job openings reached an unprecedented 10.9 million. So, if Penn State and other businesses want to fill these vacancies as quickly as they can, they need to start valuing their employees by raising their pay.

Daily Collegian Opinion Editor Joe Eckstein can be reached at jce5179@psu.edu.
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Singapore Zoo welcomes birth of first endangered Grevys zebra foal

Singapore Zoo has welcomed the birth of an endangered Grevys zebra foal, the first such instance in the zoo's history, and named her as Izara, which means star in Africa.

Zebra foal Izara explores her new space under the watchful eye of mom Kolle. Photo courtesy: Mandai Wildlife Group

The birth comes one-and-a-half months after the arrival of another prominent black and white cub at sister park River Wonders, the authorities said.

Apart from dad Desta and mom Kolle, both six years old, the Zoo is also the home to two other females Jasiri and Moyo.

The adult herd arrived in Singapore in June 2020 from USAs Tanganyika Wildlife Park. Under the care of Mandai Wildlife Group, the Grevys herd at Singapore Zoo is part of the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) ex-situ programme (EEP) for the species, which aims to maintain a healthy and sustainable population under human care for both conservation and educational purposes.

Every birth is a celebration, and this healthy and active foal will play a part in contributing to the population under human care. With fewer than 2,000 left in the wild and just over 400 under human care, this new addition marks a monumental step in the protection of the endangered Grevys species, said Dr Luis Carlos Neves, Vice President, Animal Care, Mandai Wildlife Group.

Zebra foal Izara spending some quiet time in the exhbit with mom Kolle. Photo courtesy: Mandai Wildlife Group

Grevys zebras are the largest and most endangered of the worlds three remaining zebra species (the other two being the plains and mountain), and they are found in isolated pockets of Ethiopia and Northern Kenya.

Wild populations have fallen by 85 per cent in the last 30 years with their decline attributed to a reduction of water sources, habitat loss, hunting and disease.
10/26/2021

Photo (c) Halfpoint Images - Getty Images Coronavirus (COVID-19) tally as compiled by Johns Hopkins University. (Previous numbers in parentheses.)

Total U.S. confirmed cases: 45,558,326 (45,445,118)

Total U.S. deaths: 737,615 (735,943)

Total global cases: 244,264,890 (243,805,577)

Total global deaths: 4,959,865 (4,951,264)

FDA panel meets to consider vaccinations for kids

Scientists advising the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will meet today to discuss vaccinating young children against the coronavirus. Specifically, the medical experts will review data on whether the Pfizer vaccine is safe and effective when given to children between the ages of five and 11.

The FDA has already signaled its acceptance of the vaccines use in children. Last week, it said results from a late-stage clinical trial appeared to check all the boxes for use in that age group.

The panel of experts, officially known as the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee, will review scientific data about the vaccines safety and effectiveness in children, then decide whether to recommend the health agency authorize its use.

CDC says travel to Ukraine is risky

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has placed Ukraine on its list of nations where a visit carries a very high risk of COVID-19. The country has been moved up to Level 3 when it comes to the spread of the virus.

Previously this month, the CDC cautioned Americans about traveling to Singapore. Its a very different situation from August, when the agency warned about travel to 16 countries where the risk from the virus was high.

To reach the very high risk category, a country must report more than 500 cases of COVID-19 per 100,000 residents in the past 28 days.

Pandemic has affected decision-making, survey finds

Among the many repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, a new study suggests that it has made it harder for many people to make basic decisions. The survey from the American Psychological Association says the effects are most pronounced among young adults.

The survey found that nearly one-third of Americans agreed that sometimes they are so stressed about the coronavirus pandemic that they struggle to make even basic decisions, such as what to wear or what to eat. Forty-eight percent of millennials were likely to struggle with basic decisions, much higher than the rest of the population.

The pandemic has imposed a regimen of constant risk assessment upon many, said Arthur Evans Jr., CEO of the organization. Each day brings an onslaught of choices with an ever-changing context as routines are upended and once trivial daily tasks are recast in the light of pandemic life.

Around the nation

New Jersey: Gov. Phil Murphys Republican opponent in the race for governor is elevating the pandemic and the states response to it as a prime campaign issue. A recent poll shows that 25% of New Jersey residents think Murphy has done a bad job of handling the pandemic

California: The Los Angeles Times reports that Gov. Gavin Newsoms directive that state workers be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing is not being followed by a number of agencies. It reports that a number of agencies have low vaccination rates. Nearly 6,700 forest service employees are either not vaccinated or have declined to provide their status. Cal Fire said it is testing just 75 employees.

Alabama: Gov. Kay Ivey has signed an executive order to fight what she calls the overreaching covid-19 vaccine mandates from the federal government. Alabamians  and Americans alike  should and must have the choice to roll up their sleeves to get this shot and certainly not be forced by the government, she said.

Connecticut: Connecticuts metrics are improving except for one area; hospitalizations have remained around 200 for the last few weeks.Generally the peak of people hospitalized will lag the peak of the prevalence of the community, once we see it go down a bit in the community, it takes a few weeks for the hospitalization rate to go down, said Dr. Rick Martinello, medical director of infection prevention at Yale New Haven Health.
Bvbao.com scored 40 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 2/5.0 Stars by Social Team

This CoolSocial report was updated on 1 Apr 2014, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.

The total number of people who shared the bvbao homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared the bvbao homepage on Twitter + the total number of bvbao followers (if bvbao has a Twitter account). The total number of people who shared the bvbao homepage on StumbleUpon. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared, liked or recommended the bvbao homepage on Facebook + the total number of page likes (if bvbao has a Facebook fan page). The total number of people who shared the bvbao homepage on Delicious.

Basic Information

PAGE TITLE BV | BV_ DESCRIPTION BVbvbvbvbvbvBVbvbv KEYWORDS bv, bv, bv, bv, bv, bv OTHER KEYWORDS



The title found in the head section of the homepage. The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address of the site. The description meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. CoolSocial advanced keyword analysis tool is able to detect and analyze every keyword on each page of a site. The keywords meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage.

Domain and Server

DOCTYPE HTML 5.0 CHARSET AND LANGUAGE Chinese (Simplified, China) UTF-8Chinese (Simplified, China) DETECTED LANGUAGE SERVER IIS (WAF/2.0,WAF/2.0) OPERATIVE SYSTEM

Character set and language of the site. Represents HTML declared type (e.g.: XHTML 1.1, HTML 4.0, the new HTML 5.0) Type of server and offered services. The language of bvbao.com as detected by CoolSocial algorithms. Operative System running on the server.

Site Traffic trend during the last year. Only available for sites ranked <= 100000 in the world.

Referring domains for bvbao.com by MajesticSeo. High values are a sign of site importance over the web and on web engines.

Facebook link

FACEBOOK PAGE LINK NOT FOUND

The description of the Facebook page describes website and its services to the social media users. The URL of the found Facebook page. The total number of people who like website Facebook page. The type of Facebook page. Facebook Timeline is the new layout of Facebook pages. The total number of people who tagged or talked about website Facebook page in the last 7-10 days. A Facebook page link can be found in the homepage or in the robots.txt file.

Twitter account link

TWITTER PAGE LINK NOT FOUND
Ipseguros.com scored 40 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 2/5.0 Stars by Social Team

This CoolSocial report was updated on 25 Jun 2013, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.

The total number of people who shared the ipseguros homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. The total number of people who shared the ipseguros homepage on StumbleUpon. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared the ipseguros homepage on Twitter + the total number of ipseguros followers (if ipseguros has a Twitter account). This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared, liked or recommended the ipseguros homepage on Facebook + the total number of page likes (if ipseguros has a Facebook fan page). The total number of people who shared the ipseguros homepage on Delicious.

Basic Information

PAGE TITLE IP Seguros DESCRIPTION Broker de Seguros y reaseguros, Seguros Vehiculares, Personales, Fianzas. KEYWORDS IP Seguros, Izquierdo Pen aherrera, accidentes personales, seguros, vehi culos OTHER KEYWORDS



CoolSocial advanced keyword analysis tool is able to detect and analyze every keyword on each page of a site. The title found in the head section of the homepage. The keywords meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address of the site. The description meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage.

Domain and Server

DOCTYPE HTML 5.0 CHARSET AND LANGUAGE UTF-8 DETECTED LANGUAGE Spanish Spanish SERVER Apache OPERATIVE SYSTEM Linux Linux

The language of ipseguros.com as detected by CoolSocial algorithms. Character set and language of the site. Operative System running on the server. Represents HTML declared type (e.g.: XHTML 1.1, HTML 4.0, the new HTML 5.0) Type of server and offered services.

Site Traffic trend during the last year. Only available for sites ranked <= 100000 in the world.

Referring domains for ipseguros.com by MajesticSeo. High values are a sign of site importance over the web and on web engines.

Facebook link

FACEBOOK PAGE LINK NOT FOUND

The type of Facebook page. The URL of the found Facebook page. Facebook Timeline is the new layout of Facebook pages. The description of the Facebook page describes website and its services to the social media users. The total number of people who tagged or talked about website Facebook page in the last 7-10 days. The total number of people who like website Facebook page. A Facebook page link can be found in the homepage or in the robots.txt file.

Twitter account link

TWITTER PAGE LINK NOT FOUND
Congratulations, prmeetsor.com got a very good Social Media Impact Score! Show it by adding this HTML code on your site:

Prmeetsor.com scored 63 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 3/5.0 Stars by Social Team

This CoolSocial report was updated on 26 Sep 2013, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.

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This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared, liked or recommended the prmeetsor homepage on Facebook + the total number of page likes (if prmeetsor has a Facebook fan page). The total number of people who shared the prmeetsor homepage on StumbleUpon. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared the prmeetsor homepage on Twitter + the total number of prmeetsor followers (if prmeetsor has a Twitter account). The total number of people who shared the prmeetsor homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. The total number of people who shared the prmeetsor homepage on Delicious.

Basic Information

PAGE TITLE PR Meets OR | The Honest Life of One Future Neurosurgeon' s Fiance DESCRIPTION The Honest Life of One Future Neurosurgeon' s Fiance KEYWORDS OTHER KEYWORDS this dog, this dog who, dog who, future, who thinks, tumblr, thinks



The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address of the site. The title found in the head section of the homepage. The keywords meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. CoolSocial advanced keyword analysis tool is able to detect and analyze every keyword on each page of a site. The description meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage.

Domain and Server

DOCTYPE HTML 5.0 CHARSET AND LANGUAGE English UTF-8English DETECTED LANGUAGE English English SERVER nginx OPERATIVE SYSTEM

Represents HTML declared type (e.g.: XHTML 1.1, HTML 4.0, the new HTML 5.0) Character set and language of the site. Operative System running on the server. The language of prmeetsor.com as detected by CoolSocial algorithms. Type of server and offered services.

Site Traffic trend during the last year. Only available for sites ranked <= 100000 in the world.

Referring domains for prmeetsor.com by MajesticSeo. High values are a sign of site importance over the web and on web engines.

Facebook link

FACEBOOK PAGE LINK FOUND FACEBOOK PAGE www.facebook.com/briana.ferrera DESCRIPTION LIKES PEOPLE TALKING ABOUT PAGE TYPE TIMELINE PAGE NO TIMELINE

A Facebook page link can be found in the homepage or in the robots.txt file. The description of the Facebook page describes website and its services to the social media users. The total number of people who tagged or talked about website Facebook page in the last 7-10 days. Facebook Timeline is the new layout of Facebook pages. The total number of people who like website Facebook page. The URL of the found Facebook page. The type of Facebook page.

Twitter account link

TWITTER PAGE LINK FOUND TWITTER PAGE twitter.com/#!/PRMeetsOR DESCRIPTION Public Relations Professional ACCOUNT CREATED ON 22 Jul 2013 LOCATION Washington TWEETS 124 FOLLOWERS 24 LISTED 0
Wowoniu.cc scored 40 Social Media Impact. Social Media Impact score is a measure of how much a site is popular on social networks. 2/5.0 Stars by Social Team

This CoolSocial report was updated on 30 Jun 2013, you can refresh this analysis whenever you want.

The total number of people who shared the wowoniu homepage on Delicious. The total number of people who shared the wowoniu homepage on Google Plus by a google +1 button. This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared the wowoniu homepage on Twitter + the total number of wowoniu followers (if wowoniu has a Twitter account). This is the sum of two values: the total number of people who shared, liked or recommended the wowoniu homepage on Facebook + the total number of page likes (if wowoniu has a Facebook fan page). The total number of people who shared the wowoniu homepage on StumbleUpon.

Basic Information

PAGE TITLE h__9877_mm_ DESCRIPTION ,,h,mm,-www.wowoniu.cc KEYWORDS mm, , , h,  OTHER KEYWORDS mm, mm , mm , mm , mm , 3d , mm



The description meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. CoolSocial advanced keyword analysis tool is able to detect and analyze every keyword on each page of a site. The keywords meta-tag found in the head section of the homepage. The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the address of the site. The title found in the head section of the homepage.

Domain and Server

DOCTYPE HTML 4.01 Transitional CHARSET AND LANGUAGE GB2312 DETECTED LANGUAGE SERVER TbGF4/1.2.9 (ASP.NET) OPERATIVE SYSTEM

Type of server and offered services. The language of wowoniu.cc as detected by CoolSocial algorithms. Operative System running on the server. Represents HTML declared type (e.g.: XHTML 1.1, HTML 4.0, the new HTML 5.0) Character set and language of the site.

Site Traffic trend during the last year. Only available for sites ranked <= 100000 in the world.

Referring domains for wowoniu.cc by MajesticSeo. High values are a sign of site importance over the web and on web engines.

Facebook link

FACEBOOK PAGE LINK NOT FOUND

The total number of people who like website Facebook page. Facebook Timeline is the new layout of Facebook pages. The total number of people who tagged or talked about website Facebook page in the last 7-10 days. A Facebook page link can be found in the homepage or in the robots.txt file. The type of Facebook page. The URL of the found Facebook page. The description of the Facebook page describes website and its services to the social media users.

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Every organization wants to keep its employees cybersecurity skills up to date, but for many, the cost of advanced formal trainings can break the budget. At the SANS Institute, for instance, considered by many to be the gold standard for professional trainings, courses can cost more than $5,000 per person. At high profile conferences like Black Hat, even one- or two-day sessions can range to close to $4,000.

But those aren't the only options out there. In fact, experts say, there are plenty of high-quality ways to boost security skills without breaking the bank. Their suggestions fell into two broad categories: making use of your own internal resources to ensure that cybersecurity knowledge is shared throughout your organization and finding low-cost external resources, either in addition to or as part of your internal efforts.

How internal training can deliver

When we asked cybersecurity pros where to find low-cost or free training, one answer came up again and again: look within. Your own organization almost certainly has a wealth of security knowledge, and your employees can help train and educate their coworkers.

"The first resource any company should look towards is its own people," says Attila Tomaschek, a digital privacy expert at ProPrivacy. "Internal cybersecurity experts can offer incredibly valuable insight into what an effective training regimen should consist of, as well as lead training sessions and answer questions from participants. Taking such an approach can be immensely productive and cost-effective at the same time."

For some, the idea of internal training as free or low-cost may ring some bean-counting alarm bells. After all, your employees are not free: you pay them, and the time they have to dedicate to their jobs is finite. But by deploying internal resources, you avoid the upfront costs of paying for expensive training sessions or courses. And cultivating an internal security training culture has other benefits, both tangible and intangible, as well.

Formal training programs. There is a wide range of ways you can implement trainings and knowledge transfer internally, depending on your company size and capacity. At MongoDB, an internal "security champions" program permeates all departments within the company, says CISO Lena Smart. Champions volunteer to participate and "are the conduit through which business units can discuss security needs, issues and requests," she explains. Champions attend monthly security meetings, help educate their teams on security matters, and are expected to dedicate two hours a week to learning more about current security issues.

Cost is difficult to quantify, says Smart, but she believes that the investment is worth it. "For example, a security engineer hosting a presentation about network security best practices provides value to the champions while also making the engineer's job easier, since champions are likely to share and implement what they've learned during that session." The program has buy-in from top execs, and now has a full-time employee in charge of it.

That said, MongoDB is a fairly large company, with around 2,900 employees; obviously a small shop or startup couldn't support a program like this. But we spoke to several other IT pros who described less formal ways in which employees at companies with fewer resources can help keep each other's skills up to date.

Knowledge sessions. Deepak Gupta, co-founder and CTO LoginRadius, describes how he approached this problem in the early days of his company: "We had a small and not very experienced team, and it was essential for them to learn and grow. If the team was lacking some specific skills, we used to do weekly sessions to overcome that specific knowledge gap. The key here is the team should be willing to learn and adapt. We were successful building the team with this approach."

Jason Vigh, Cybersecurity Manager at 1898 & Co., says his company also uses these kinds of semi-formal presentations to train workers. "These 'lunch and learns' create an open forum for collaboration on various cybersecurity topics," he says. "This allows not only senior-level members to share their experiences, but also junior-level members to discuss their personal research on various topics and solicit feedback from more experienced employees to validate the concepts they may have been researching or learning."

One-on-one mentorship. Along these lines, our experts urged companies to take advantage of opportunities to pair up senior and junior employees to help transfer skills across generations at the company. "Weve done both formal and informal job shadowing with great results," says Marlys Rodgers, CISO at CSAA Insurance Group. "Last year, we brought on a completely non-technical resource from our servicing area and shes now driving our phishing campaigns, metrics, and data analytics. We are now focused on job rotations and internships to leverage our experienced resources and their knowledge, and the result is extra hands to help while learning on the job."

Presenting and contextualizing publicly available content. There's a wide variety of security-focused content out there available free of charge, ranging from blog posts to webinars to podcasts. A lot of that material could be useful to technical and nontechnical staff alikeand it's up to internal IT security experts to separate the wheat from the chaff.

"I have been sharing podcasts with my employees," says Sebastian Schaeffer, CTO and owner of dofollow.io. He's a particular fan of Unsupervised Learning with infosec expert Daniel Miessler, and Darknet Diaries hosted by cybersecurity pro Jack Rhysider. But he emphasizes that making use of that material involves more than just sharing a link. "You, as the in-house IT expert, have to help contextualize the content and help people extract the main takeaways," he says. "But it is entirely possible to instill cybersecurity best practices into people without IT backgrounds simply by providing them with access to conversations with leading experts."

Looking outside for nuggets of wisdom

As Schaeffer makes clear, you're going to need to pull information and resources from the outside world to truly upskill your IT department and keep your larger employee base up-to-date on cybersecurity.

The wider world is full resources you can draw from, if you know where to look.

Online courses. There are plenty of free and low-cost resources out there, and several sites and courses came up repeatedly with the experts we spoke to (see the sidebar for a list).

These offerings can be integrated into internally run cybersecurity training programs, delivering well-designed courses to employees without putting a big dent in departmental budgets or requiring someone in-house to dedicate time to developing a course from scratch.

Jordan Mauriello, CSO at Critical Start, says that his company makes use of both Udemy and edX to train their staffers. "The Harvard CS-50x Intro to Computer Science course on edX is a great introduction to programming fundamentals," he says. "Additionally, instructor Jose Portilla of Pierian Data Inc. has his Python courses on Udemy for a very affordable rate. Both courses are essential as we progress analysts into being able to conduct code analysis, and eventually learn software reversing on their way to malware analysis."

Vendor resources. Lovisa Stenbacken Stjernlof is the Okta Practice Lead at Devoteam Cloud Services, a Swedish consultancy. "We of course use the training resources of the different partners that we resell," she says. "But that can actually be a strategy for others too. Many product companies offer their trainings for free, and they usually also include more general cyber security knowledge as well."

John Roman, president and chief operating officer at FoxPointe Solutions, concurs. "Companies including ESET, Crowdstrike, and Symantec frequently offer free webinars and discuss relevant topics and training around hot cybersecurity topics," he says. "Monitor for these sites and take advantage of additional learning opportunities."

That said, he emphasizes that you approach such resources understanding that they are part of the vendors marketing strategy. "As best practice, there should always be a vetting process with vendors," he says. "Before inviting a vendor to present a training session, a companys CIO or CISO should vet the presentation or materials to ensure 95% is educational and 5% a sales pitch."

Learn from the mistakes of others. Often, security breaches eventually become a matter of public record, especially if the affected company is in a heavily regulated industry. The reports put out by regulatory bodies on these breaches are a great resource for helping your infosec team understand real-world cybersecurity issues. "By understanding where others have fallen short, we learn from events where others have not been so fortunate," says Simon Backwell, information security manager at Benefex, Ltd. "The best thing is that there is no cost apart from the time and effort that the individuals put in to listen to or read these resources."

Meetups and networking. Our final bit of advice: there is no greater resource for infosec knowledge than your fellow infosec pros. That means you should be encouraging your employees to network with cybersecurity professionals outside your company, and you should be doing the same.

Adam Fard, founder and head of design at Adam Fard Studio, urges you to look for meetup groups near you. "While meetups are less structured than conferences and group memberships, they nonetheless provide an excellent chance for learning and networking," he says. And, he adds, "If you don't live near a large city with in-person meetups, there are clubs that conduct virtual events to ensure you don't miss out! Because meetups are often free, they provide a wonderful opportunity to learn from seasoned cybersecurity professionals on a budget."

In the end, one of the greatest benefits you can get from your wider professional network is the inside scoop on where to find more free and low-cost trainings. "Last year one of my goals was to find a couple different training courses that would improve my work as a defender in the detection space," says Amanda Berlin, lead incident detection engineer at Blumira. "Of course there are thousands of people that sign up for BlackHat classes as well as classes at other conferences, but those came at a high price. It was during that search that I found some other conferences, including Wild West Hackin Fest, based out of South Dakota."

"At first I was hesitant: how could the courses be any good when they weren't charging a large amount for them?" she continues. "But after a while, I started to hear back from other people in the industry and their first-hand experiences taking other courses as well. There were a few specific courses that kept on crossing my path in recommendationsincluding some from WWHF." Ultimately, she was very satisfied: "For the price (around $500-$600 a piece) they have all offered a huge amount of information and hands-on learning." And the fact that she found her way to them testifies to the power of community.
The threat landscape has changed dramatically over the past 18 months. What do business leaders need to know?

Changes to how we live and work during the pandemic has seen the amount of data we create grow at an accelerated pace. Not only are IT teams having to quickly learn to manage this influx of data but they also need to keep it safe.

According to the ACSC Annual Cyber Threat Report, the number of cybercrimes reported rose nearly 13 per cent in 2020-21, increasing a business risk substantiality. Cyber security and resilience are now forming an essential part of a solid IT strategy that will keep businesses running, even when it comes under threat. Regulatory requirements are also set to change this year which all business leaders need to be aware of, or they risk hefty fines.

How can CSO effectively raise the issue of cyber resiliency with the board?

Despite being a critical risk for businesses, there is still confusion around the topic at board level. The best way to combat this is to educate key business stakeholders so they understand how a cyber-attack will impact the business, how a cyber resiliency strategy can mitigate these risks and the level of investment required.

According to the Dell Technologies Global Data Protection Index the average cost of data loss is US$959,493. Combine this with IT downtime, increased employee resources and damage to reputation, the risk is more than monetary and will be felt by all employees, customers and partners.

Changes to regulations in Australia will soon mean that board members of many businesses will be obligated to report cyber breaches and should be aware of their responsibilities.

The best barrier of defense is a strong cyber resiliency strategy. How can security chiefs build this into the overall IT and business strategy?

The key to mastering cyber resiliency is the ability to anticipate, withstand, recover from, and adapt to adverse conditions, stresses, attacks, or compromises on systems that use or are enabled by cyber resources according to the NIST.

The first step is to assess the risk. Treat cyber resiliency like you would any other business imperative. Once you have run analysis on your applications, data and systems, identifying what applications need to be protected and what business data is at risk, you can apply the right level of investment to apply cyber security and resilience controls. The final stage is to plan how you will respond and recover with minimal business disruption.

How can business identify which data needs to be secured?

According to the Dell Technologies Global Data Protection Index, organisations are managing more than 10 times the amount of data than they did five years ago. With the shift to work from home and an increase in cloud services, it becomes clear that organisations are challenged to decide which step to take next when securing, managing and protecting data. Not all data is created equal and this needs to be acknowledged. Application profiling and data classification projects are on the rise as organisations ensure they are applying the right investment to the right data, while not over-investing in data of lower value. Fundamentally, though, organisations need to ensure their most critical systems and data are protected and recoverable in the event of a cyber-attack. Focusing on these first provides a clear way forward and highlights dependencies across an environment that can also be taken into account.

Look to government and industry regulations for guidance and assess how valuable your data is to potential hackers and to the day-to-day running of your business.

How will the upcoming Critical Infrastructure Bill affect Australian businesses?

The ACSC disclosed in September that one quarter of cyber incidents reported in 2020-21 were associated with Australias critical infrastructure or essential services. Changes to the Critical Infrastructure Bill will expand the definition to include 11 additional industries such telecommunications, data storage, financial services, education, and transport. Increased regulations and mandatory reporting of data breaches will improve Australias response to attacks and allow for businesses to learn from each and in turn better protect themselves. Improving the partnership between industry and government to meet higher standards across more sectors will not only benefit Australian businesses, but also Australian citizens who rely on the services provided by these sectors every day.

Measure your cyber resiliency today with the Dell Technologies Cyber Resilience Assessment.
Customer Perspectives

A petroleum distribution business developed innovative ideas for increasing customer loyalty, but it needed to upgrade its technology infrastructure to bring those concepts to life.

The company, which operates several hundred full-service gas stations, wanted to provide direct internet access to consumers as they waited at gas pumps. The marketing group saw an opportunity to gain insights into those consumers behaviorsand an opportunity to leverage that knowledge to increase revenue through targeted ads and social media campaigns.

Another opportunity lay hidden in the service stations snack and drink sales. This company typically operates in extremely hot climates where daytime temperatures reach above 100 degrees Fahrenheit for about half the year. Gas station customers may avoid any activity that requires them to exit their air-conditioned vehicles, so the company developed an app through which customers can purchase items from the convenience stores without leaving their vehicles.

The fuel distribution company planned to run this new app in the Microsoft Azure public cloud, as well as to move a number of its existing apps into Azure. Unfortunately, its legacy technology infrastructure was not fast enough for users in remote locations to access core solutions running in the cloud. The network was routing all of service stations internet traffic over MPLS links to corporate headquarters, where firewalls inspected it. This introduced significant latency to both incoming and outbound cloud traffic, leading to sluggish performance of cloud solutions and threatening to derail the new convenience store ordering app before it even got off the ground.

A Security- and Performance-Driven WAN

The company engaged Fortinet to rearchitect its wide-area network (WAN) to provide high-speed yet secure Wi-Fi in each gas station, with the goal of supporting the organizations digital transition.

As a first step, they replaced the expensive MPLS links with more cost-effective ADSL and 4G LTE connections. To flexibly allocate bandwidth across one or more of these links, they deployed FortiGate Secure SD-WAN with FortiExtender LTE at the edge of each service station network. The built-in network firewall capability in the FortiGate Secure SD-WAN performs all the security functions of the enterprise firewall at headquarters, so app users at the stations can connect directly to the cloud without putting their personal data or the companys network at risk.

Extending the FortiGate Secure SD-WAN solution into the service station local-area network (LAN), the company created an SD-Branch architecture based on ruggedized ATEX-compliant FortiSwitch Ethernet switches and FortiAP Wi-Fi access points. This SD-Branch configuration provides direct-to-internet connectivity for public Wi-Fi users. This approach ensures consumers connectivity while in the convenience store, the parking lot, or their vehicles, so they can surf the web without unnecessary latency.

FortiPresence provides insights into the behavior of network visitors in real time and across time periods. This turns the service stations LAN into a business enabler that collects and analyzes data, providing information the company can use to engage with consumers based on their discovered behaviors. Meanwhile, the company integrates FortiNAC network access control and FortiAuthenticator user authentication to lock down access to internal resources. These zero-trust access solutions ensure that users of the public Wi-Fi have restricted privileges and are unable to access the companys internal resources.

The fuel distributor is extending zero-trust principles by adopting a segmentation strategy via the same FortiGate technology to isolate the service stations IT networks from the operational technology (OT) equipment that controls gas pumps and systems in its fuel distribution centers. Such segmentation is crucial for preventing cyberattackers from moving laterally if they manage to breach the IT infrastructure, which precludes them from possibly shutting down equipment within a service station or refinery. This cybersecurity best practice helps minimize the risk that ransomware or another type of attack on the WAN will interfere with the companys ability to provide customers with the fuel they require.

In the period leading up to the engagement with Fortinet, the companys internal networking and security staff were essentially flying blind. They possessed limited information about network usage, and their previously deployed firewall product made it time-consuming to detect threats and attempted attacks. The streamlined management and clear visibility afforded via the FortiGate Secure SD-WAN were key factors in the companys decision to roll out the Fortinet solution. Moving forward, internal staff can confidently and efficiently keep an eye on network activity and neutralize security threats in an expeditious manner.

High Performance and Visibility Set the Stage for a Bright Future

The company has realized numerous benefits through the tight integration of security and networking throughout the new infrastructure. Operational costs are much lower. The company has eliminated its wide-scale reliance on MPLS. In addition, the Fortinet solutions ease of implementation has enabled the companys small internal IT staff to take over WAN provisioning and analytics from the service provider the company formerly depended upon.

More important than the cost reduction through ease of network management are the increased customer loyalty and the opportunity to generate additional revenue through high-performance cloud apps and localized advertising. Through it all, the advanced security features in the FortiGate NGFWs sustain the security of company resources.

Fortinets approach to security-driven networking has prepared the company to grow rapidly. Its strategic plan calls for tripling its number of service stations, across multiple countries, over the next five years. In the legacy environment, the companys dependence on its external service provider would have rendered this corporate vision and service to the customer impossible. Provisioning MPLS service for a new gas station used to take four months or more. Now, the internal team can deploy Fortinet networking and security to 40 or more new sites in a single month.

For the tens of millions of customers who visit the companys service stations each month, the Fortinet solution has substantially improved their customer experience. And for the company, the networking, security, and SD-Branch capabilities delivered by Fortinet have set the stage for a bright future.

Take a security-driven networking approach to improve user experience and simplify operations at the WAN edge with Fortinet Secure SD-WAN.
Though some COVID metrics have been trending down in recent weeks, hospitalizations  often described by officials as a key indicator in decision making  remain well above pandemic lows.

While overall infections and deaths have declined, hospitalizations have hoovered above 200 for several weeks following a spike in overall COVID-19 cases brought on by the highly transmissible delta variant.

Generally the peak of people hospitalized will lag the peak of the prevalence of the community, once we see it go down a bit in the community, it takes a few weeks for the hospitalization rate to go down, said Dr. Rick Martinello, medical director of infection prevention at Yale New Haven Health.

Martinello said some of those hospitalized also require prolonged stays in intensive care, which can keep the tally of patients high for several weeks.

Through the weekend, the hospitalizations increased by a net of one patient for a total of 212. At the same time, the positivity rate of new COVID tests was 1.55 percent, according to the states data.

Heading into the colder months, which often drive up respiratory illnesses, overall hospitalizations are still considerably higher than pandemic lows seen in July, when a pandemic low of 25 patients statewide was recorded.

Gov. Ned Lamont said Monday he was not concerned about the hospitalizations levels right now in Connecticut.

Look, weve been near the lowest in the country now for months. I feel pretty good with 90 percent of our adults having at least one shot. Thats a pretty good start, Lamont said.

Cases have been declining, but the delta variant, which first started to significantly spread in Connecticut during the summer, remains present. The latest report from the Yale School of Public Health, issued last Thursday, shows all but one of the 322 cases they genetically sequenced were the delta variant.

Delta definitely played a role, Dr. Ulysses Wu, chief epidemiologist for Hartford HealthCare, said of hospitalization levels. But guess what works against delta? The vaccine. Delta is playing a role, but it is preventable.

While hospitalizations jumped during the spike in cases brought on by the delta variant, the total number was far below the peak seen in early 2021. Experts and state officials have credited the states high vaccination rate as muting the devastating effects of the delta variant that were seen in other parts of the country, particularly southern states.

In hospitals, Wu said, the majority of the patients continue to be unvaccinated. And as the level of care for a patient increases within the hospital from an intensive care unit stay to intubation and ventilation, the likelihood is even greater that the person has not been vaccinated, Wu said.

The tool to drop the hospitalization numbers, Wu said, is increased vaccination. It has been and really is the way to drive down these numbers, he said.

While some projections show hospitalizations continuing to slowly decline in the coming months, Wu said he believes the numbers may pick up as colder weather descends on the state.

I assume when weather starts getting colder, when we start having holidays, Halloween, Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, Christmas and News Years, those numbers are going to trend up a little bit, Wu said.
HOUSTON (AP)  A woman and her boyfriend were arrested Tuesday in the death of the woman's 8-year-old son, whose skeletal remains were found inside a Houston-area apartment with three surviving but apparently abandoned siblings, officials said.

Brian W. Coulter, the 31-year-old boyfriend of the dead childs mother, was charged Tuesday with murder. The mother, Gloria Y. Williams, 35, was charged with felony injury to a child by omission, and tampering with evidence (human corpse), Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez tweeted Tuesday night.

Both were booked into the Harris County Jail without bond pending appearances before a magistrate. It was not immediately clear if the two had attorneys. Gonzalez said more charges are possible.

The Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences in Houston, which conducts all autopsies in the county, listed the primary cause of death as homicidal violence with multiple blunt force injuries.

Michele Arnold, a spokeswoman for the institute, said her agency could not provide additional details.

Deputy Thomas Gilliland, a spokesman for the Harris County Sheriffs Office, also said he could not immediately provide any more information because his agency was still investigating the death.

One of the surviving siblings, a 15-year-old, called the sheriffs department Sunday and told authorities his brother had been dead for a year and the body was inside the apartment, according to the law enforcement agency.

Deputies found the teen and two other siblings, ages 10 and 7, living alone in the apartment, Gonzalez said. The 15-year-old told authorities his parents had not lived in the apartment for several months.

Gonzalez said it appeared that the surviving children were fending for each other, with the oldest sibling caring for the younger two.

Their apartment didnt have any power, and a neighbor had helped the children by charging a cellphone for them and buying them food, Gilliland said.

The younger children appeared to be malnourished and had physical injuries, according to the sheriffs office. All three siblings were taken to a hospital and assessed and treated.

The children last attended school in May 2020, said Craig Eichhorn, a spokesman for the Alief school district. They didn't return for the 2020-2021 school year, and school officials attempted an unsuccessful home visit in September 2020, Eichhorn said.

A judge on Monday granted the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services temporary custody of the three children.

Investigators were still trying to determine why no one with the apartment complex had noticed anything unusual, Gilliland said.

Highmark Residential, the property management company which runs the apartment complex, did not immediately return a call seeking comment on Tuesday.

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This story has been corrected to show that Brian W. Coulter is 31 years old and Gloria Y. Williams is 35 years old.

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Associated Press writer Terry Wallace in Dallas contributed to this report.

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Follow Juan A. Lozano on Twitter: https://twitter.com/juanlozano70
FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP)  Kentucky's Republican legislative leaders rejected a request to appoint members to a group to discuss using federal pandemic aid to reward frontline workers with bonuses, Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear said Monday.

Instead, in yet another reflection of the state's fiercely divided politics, the top GOP lawmakers suggested the governor work through the legislature's committee process.

The governor had asked that legislative leaders select a handful of Republican and Democratic lawmakers to join a working group to fill in details of his plan. Beshear wants to use $400 million in federal pandemic assistance to award extra pay to essential workers employed throughout the pandemic. Republicans hold overwhelming majorities in the legislature.

The group, also to include members of Beshears administration, would try to reach consensus on key issues  which professions should be included and the amount of payments.

Democratic lawmakers submitted their choices for the group but Republican leaders declined to do so, the governor said at a news conference Monday.

In their reply to the governor, House Speaker David Osborne and Senate President Robert Stivers said they'd welcome reviewing the proposal through the legislature's regular policymaking process.

We respect the legislative committees expertise and publics input in these matters, and do not see any purpose at this time in circumventing their usual jurisdiction with an additional working group, they wrote to Beshear. Your administration is welcome to advance any bonus pay proposals during the remaining interim committee schedule, or during the 2022 Regular Session.

Lawmakers will convene next year's session in early January.

Beshear said he was disappointed by the reply but will keep pressing for the bonus pay.

The governor has mentioned health care workers, police officers, firefighters, educators, grocery store workers and people working in manufacturing as among those who should be considered. Lawmakers would make the final decision on appropriating the federal assistance.

"I believe strongly that our people who have worked almost two years through this pandemic deserve appreciation, deserve encouragement, deserve an attaboy and an attagirl, Beshear said.

Beshear said he sees the prospect of bonus pay as an incentive for people to hold on as the fight against the pandemic continues.

In their reply to the governor, Osborne and Stivers expressed their ongoing commitment to alleviating workforce issues facing health care providers.

The House majority will continue to approach this policy discussion as we do every piece of legislation we pass  by working with stakeholders and engaging with the executive branch," Osborne said in a separate statement Monday. We look forward to the administrations input but would advise that any proposals focus on bolstering the workforce, getting Kentuckians back to work and removing the barriers that stand in the way of our economy moving forward.

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Follow more of APs pandemic coverage at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic.
Hearst Connecticut Media / Wes Duplantier

BRIDGEPORT  City police are investigating after a person arrived at the emergency room of Bridgeport Hospital with a gunshot wound to the elbow.

In a tweet shortly after 5:30 p.m., Bridgeport police said it was unknown where the shooting occurred.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP)  Months before Rosa Parks became the mother of the modern civil rights movement by refusing to move to the back of a segregated Alabama bus, Black teenager Claudette Colvin did the same. Convicted of assaulting a police officer while being arrested, she was placed on probation yet never received notice that she'd finished the term and was on safe ground legally.

Now 82 and slowed by age, Colvin has asked a judge to end the matter once and for all. She wants a court in Montgomery to wipe away a record that her lawyer says has cast a shadow over the life of a largely unsung hero of the civil rights era.

I am an old woman now. Having my records expunged will mean something to my grandchildren and great grandchildren. And it will mean something for other Black children, Colvin said in a sworn statement.

Supporters sang civil rights anthems and clapped as Colvin entered the clerks office and filed the expungement request Tuesday. Her attorney, Phillip Ensler, said he was seeking all legal documents to be sealed and all records of the case erased.

Montgomery County District Attorney Daryl Bailey later said he agreed with the request to clear Colvins record, removing any doubt it would be approved.

I guess you can say that now I am no longer a juvenile delinquent, Colvin told a crowd that included relatives, well wishers and activists.

Also present was famed civil rights attorney Fred Gray, now 90, who's not currently involved in her case.

Recalling her arrest, Colvin told the crowd: My mindset was on freedom.

So I was not going to move that day, she said. I told them that history had me glued to the seat.

Colvin left Alabama at age 20 and spent decades in New York, but relatives always worried what might happen when she returned for visits since no court official ever said she had finished probation, according to Ensler.

Her family has lived with this tremendous fear ever since then, he said. For all the recognition of recent years and the attempts to tell her story, there wasnt anything done to clear her record.

Currently living in Birmingham before a move to stay with relatives in Texas, the octogenarian Colvin made her request to a juvenile court judge oddly enough since that's where she was judged delinquent and placed on what, for all practical purposes, amounted to a lifetime of probation, Ensler said.

Montgomery's city bus system, like the rest of public life across the Deep South, was strictly divided along racial lines in the 1950s. Blacks had to use one water fountain while whites used another; the front of a bus was for white people while Blacks had to take the back by law.

Parks, a 42-year-old seamstress and activist with the NAACP, gained worldwide fame after refusing to give up her bus seat to a white man on Dec. 1, 1955. Her treatment led to the yearlong Montgomery Bus Boycott, which propelled the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. into the national limelight and often is considered the start of the modern civil rights movement.

A 15-year-old high school student at the time, Colvin got fed up and refused to move even before Parks.

A bus driver called police on March 2, 1955, to complain that two Black girls were sitting near two white girls and refused to move to the back of the bus. One of the Black girls moved when asked, a police report said, but Colvin refused.

The police report said Colvin put up a struggle as officers removed her from the bus, kicking and scratching an officer. She was initially convicted of violating the city's segregation law, disorderly conduct and assaulting an officer, but she appealed and only the assault charge stuck.

The case was sent to juvenile court because of Colvin's age, and records show a judge found her delinquent and placed her on probation as a ward of the state pending good behavior. And that's where it ended, Ensler said, with Colvin never getting official word that she'd completed probation and her relatives assuming the worst  that police would arrest her for any reason they could.

Ensler said it's murky as to whether Colvin is actually still on probation, but she never had any other arrests or legal scrapes. She even became a named plaintiff in the landmark lawsuit that outlawed racial segregation on Montgomery's buses. Still, Colvin said, the trauma endured, particularly for relatives who constantly worried for her.

My conviction for standing up for my constitutional right terrorized my family and relatives who knew only that they were not to talk about my arrest and conviction because people in town knew me as that girl from the bus, she said.

Ensler said it was uncertain when a judge might rule.

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Reeves is a member of the APs Race and Ethnicity team.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  Emirati prosecutors said Sunday they launched a major investigation into Dubai-based real estate developer Union Properties, saying they would probe allegations the long-troubled firm committed fraud and other offenses while trying to claw its way out of debt.

Union Properties, known for building Dubai Motor City, did not respond to repeated requests for comment.

The announcement by prosecutors renewed questions about the wider stability of Dubai's boom-and-bust real estate market, which saw Union Properties pile on some $2 billion of debt during the city-state's financial crisis over a decade ago. The company had nearly $500 million in debt at the end of last year, according to their financial filings.

A statement carried by the state-run WAM news agency said the investigation involved allegations of the firm selling property at less than its real value and hiding the name of the beneficiary of the sale, as well as forging documents and other violations.

The investigation involves complaints lodged by the Securities and Commodities Authority on allegations of financial violations committed by Khalifa Hassan al-Hammadi, chairman of the board of directors of Union Properties, along with some of its officials, the WAM statement said.

A stock market filing by Union Properties identified a March 2020 transaction in which Amna al-Hammadi purchased a property for 30 million dirhams ($8.1 million) that had been earlier valued at 49.5 million dirhams ($13.4 million). Previous filings on the London Stock Exchange identified Amna as Khalifa al-Hammadi's sister.

Neither Amna nor Khalifa al-Hammadi could be reach for comment. Union Properties filing sought to explain the sale by noting it came amid the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic and its accompanying negative effects  and in light of the companys commitment to settle its debt towards its lenders.

Other filings on Sunday to the Dubai Financial Market showed shareholders wanted a vote later this week to possibly remove its board of directors. Separately, the company said one of its subsidiaries was involved in a lawsuit seeking nearly $1 billion, without elaborating.

Shares in Union Properties fell as much as over 9% in trading Sunday on the Dubai Financial Market before closing down 4.83% to 26 fils a share, or 7 cents.

The firms current shareholder structure wasnt immediately clear, though a profile from the data firm Refinitiv showed its major investor as the Bluestone Fund.

Union Properties, like other firms, has struggled to come out of the shadow of Dubais 2009 financial crisis, when its property market collapsed. The city ultimately receive $20 billion in bailouts from Abu Dhabi, the Emirates oil-rich capital.

Union Properties abandoned the construction of a $460 million Formula One theme park in Motor City during the crisis, with its CEO at the time saying banks were no longer willing to lend money. Creditors, including the state-linked bank Emirates NBD, pursued the firm over loans of $2 billion. Even today, Emirates NBD advertises dusty buildings in Motor City as being available for sale or rent.

Today's news was shocking, but we need to be clear that this is a good thing that there is a system, a system that adheres to punishing people who are responsible, said Waleed al-Khatib, a managing partner at the Abu Dhabi-based trading firm Global For Shares and Bonds.

However, Dubai still faces looming debt payments that stem from its 2009 financial crisis. Dubai and its government-linked firms face a massive $30.6 billion bill coming by 2023, according to London-based Capital Economics. Dubai itself insists it is able to cover its debts and that state-linked firms should be considered separate from the sheikhdom's affairs.

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Follow Jon Gambrell and Lujain Jo on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP and www.twitter.com/lujainjo.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (AP)  Southeast Asian leaders began their annual summit without Myanmar on Tuesday amid a diplomatic standoff over the exclusion of the leader of the military-ruled nation from the group's meetings.

Myanmar skipped the summit in protest after the Association of Southeast Asian Nations shut out its top general from its meetings .

ASEAN's refusal to allow Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing to represent Myanmar at the summit was its harshest rebuke yet of the country's military rulers since they ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi in February.

Brunei, who is this years chair of the 10-member bloc, invited Myanmars highest-ranking veteran diplomat, U Chan Aye, as a non-political representative, but he didn't attend the meeting, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi told reporters in Jakarta.

Marsudi said President Joko Widodo told the summit that ASEAN's unprecedented downgrade of Myanmar's participation was a tough decision but it had to be done.

Despite ASEAN's bedrock principles of non-interference in other members' affairs and decisions by consensus, Widodo said it is also obliged to uphold other principles in the ASEAN charter such as democracy, good governance, respect for human rights and constitutional government, Marsudi said.

Myanmars military takeover triggered widespread protests and a violent crackdown by authorities. Security forces are estimated to have killed almost 1,200 civilians, though the government has claimed a lower death toll.

Myanmars absence at the summit followed the refusal of its military leaders to allow an ASEAN special envoy, Brunei Second Foreign Minister Erywan Yusof, to meet with Suu Kyi and other detained civilian leaders.

Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha told the summit that the Myanmar crisis was a test of ASEAN's ability to resolve its own regional problems, Thai government spokesperson Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said.

Prayut expressed hope that Myanmar will trust ASEAN and allow Erywan to meet with all parties concerned as an important first step in solving the crisis, Thanakorn added.

A statement issued by Brunei after the summit didn't mention Myanmar's absence but said the bloc's leaders called again for mediation in the Myanmar crisis to uphold ASEAN's credibility."

Myanmars Foreign Ministry took a more conciliatory tone later Tuesday, saying its decision not to attend the summit was not intended to show its protest against ASEAN or to boycott ASEAN. It said it was just exercising its rights because it believed ASEANs decision to keep its leader away from the summit was against the blocs charter.

Myanmar will continue to constructively cooperate with ASEAN, it said. Myanmar has insisted it cooperated with Erywan but that he cannot meet with Suu Kyi and some others because they face criminal charges.

The three-day talks, which are being held by video due to coronavirus concerns, will be joined by other world leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden and the leaders of China and Russia. The meetings are expected to spotlight Myanmars worsening crisis as well as other regional security and economic issues.

While ASEAN took a major step in excluding Min Aung Hlaing from the summit, a group of lawmakers working to improve rights in the region, ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights, urged the bloc on Tuesday to engage with Myanmars opposition National Unity Government. NUG views itself as a shadow government and had sought to attend the ASEAN summit.

ASEAN must discontinue inviting any other junta representatives to all ASEAN official meetings until there is an end to violence, all political prisoners are freed, and the will of the people for fully fledged democracy has been heard," the group said in a statement.

On Monday, a senior U.S. official held a virtual meeting with two NUG representatives. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan underscored U.S. continued support for the pro-democracy movement and expressed concern over the militarys violence.

Sullivan said Washington will continue to seek the release of all those unjustly detained, including prominent pro-democracy activist Ko Jimmy, who was arrested in a raid on Saturday.

The United Nations on Monday appointed former U.N. Undersecretary-General Noeleen Heyzer of Singapore as its new special envoy for Myanmar. She will succeed Christine Schraner Burgener of Switzerland, whose term ends Sunday.

After their summit, ASEAN leaders held separate meetings with their Chinese, South Korean and U.S. counterparts later Tuesday. It was the first time since 2017 that a U.S. president has attended the annual ASEAN summit.

During the meeting, Biden announced a $100 million initiative to shore up ties with ASEAN amid Chinas growth as a national security and economic adversary. Biden called the U.S. relationship with the bloc essential.

I want you all to hear directly from me the importance the United States places on its relationship with ASEAN, Biden said. You can expect to see me showing up and reaching out to you.

The new funding will include money for health spending, a new climate initiative, programs to assist with the economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic and education programs.

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Gomez reported from Manila. Associated Press writers Grant Peck in Bangkok and Nini Karmini in Jakarta, Indonesia, contributed to this report.
GRANTS PASS, Ore. (AP)  A Grants Pass woman is accused of running an illicit massage business.

The Josephine County District Attorneys Office charged Wei Zhang, 58, with a one felony count of promoting prostitution, The Mail Tribune reported.

Documents filed Monday in Josephine County Circuit Court accuse her of operating and maintaining a prostitution enterprise at Silk Road Massage in Grants Pass for more than two and a half years.

Police claim that Zhang caused several females to engage in prostitution, and that she took a cut of the money paid for sexual acts.

Zhang was arrested Thursday during a raid involving multiple police task forces, according to a news release from the Jackson County Sheriffs Office.

She was released Friday after posting $25,000 bail, jail and court records show. It wasn't immediately known if she has a lawyer to comment on the case.

Another person was cited for prostitution and released on Thursday, police said. In addition, an alleged customer at the business at the time was found to have a U.S. Marshals Service warrant for arrest and was being held in the Josephine County Jail, police said.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A powerful atmospheric river storm that swept through California set rainfall records and helped douse wildfires. But it remained to be seen how much of a dent it made in the state's drought.

The weather system weakened as it moved south but still dropped enough rain Monday evening to cause mudslides that closed roads in the San Bernardino Mountains northeast of Los Angeles.

The atmospheric river storm, a long and wide plume of moisture pulled in from the Pacific, came ashore in Northern California over the weekend.

Drenching rains caused widespread flooding and rock slides. Strong winds knocked down trees and toppled two big trucks on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge near San Francisco. Pacific Gas & Electric reported that 646,000 homes and businesses lost power, though most had it back by Monday.

By early Tuesday, light rain and snow was still falling in northern parts of California and the lone remaining flood warning was in Sonoma County north of San Francisco, where stream levels were slow to fall.

Despite the problems, the rain and mountain snow were welcome in Northern California, which is so dry that nearly all of it is classified as either experiencing extreme or exceptional drought.

The wet weather also greatly reduces the chances of additional wildfires in a region that has borne the brunt of another devastating year of blazes in the state.

The National Weather Service called preliminary rainfall totals from the storm staggering. Four inches (10 centimeters) fell Sunday in downtown San Francisco, making it the fourth-wettest day on record for the city.

Its been a memorable past 24 hours for the Bay Area as the long talked-about atmospheric river rolled through the region, the local weather office said Monday. We literally have gone from fire/drought conditions to flooding in one storm cycle.

Northeast of San Francisco, 5.44 inches (13.82 centimeters) fell on downtown Sacramento, shattering the one-day record for rainfall that had stood since 1880.

Along the state's central coast, nearly 5.4 inches (13.72 centimeters) of rain was recorded at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo County. In Southern California, 1.1 inches (2.79 centimeters) fell in Beverly Hills.

Interstate 80, the major highway through the Sierra Nevada Mountains to Reno, Nevada, was closed by heavy snow early Monday. In Californias Colusa and Yolo counties, state highways 16 and 20 were shut for several miles because of mudslides, the state Department of Transportation said.

The same storm system also slammed Oregon and Washington state, causing power outages affecting tens of thousands of people. Two people were killed when a tree fell on a vehicle in the greater Seattle area.

Water levels at Lake Oroville, a major Northern California reservoir, rose 20 feet (6.10 meters) over the past week, according to the states Department of Water Resource. Most of the increase came between Saturday and Monday during the height of the storm, KHSL-TV reported.

Justin Mankin, a geography professor at Dartmouth College and co-lead of the Drought Task Force at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said the cycle of going from years-long drought to record-breaking downpours is expected to continue because of climate change.

While this rain is welcome, it comes with these hazards, and it wont necessarily end the drought, Mankin said. California still needs more precipitation, and it really needs it in high elevations and spread out over a longer time so its not hazardous.

Christy Brigham, chief of resource management and science at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, said the rain was a big relief after the KNP Complex fire torched an unknown number of the giant trees in the park, along with thousands of pines and cedars.

This amount of rainfall is what we call a season-ending event, Brigham said. It should end fire season, and it should end our need -- to a large degree -- to fight this fire.

Over the weekend, the California Highway Patrol closed a stretch of State Route 70 in Butte and Plumas counties because of multiple landslides within the massive Dixie Fire burn scar.

Cal Fire, the state firefighting agency, did not declare the wildfire season over or cut staffing to lower winter levels.

Wed like to see some more rain coming our way before we look at reducing staffing, spokesman Isaac Sanchez said.

The long-term weather forecast for California suggests drier-than-normal conditions, Mankin said.

To end different aspects of the drought, you are going to need a situation where parts of California get precipitation over the next three months thats about 200% of normal, he said, adding that despite this really, really insane rainfall, the winter is probably going to be drier than average.

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Associated Press writers Janie Har in San Francisco, Christopher Weber and John Antczak in Los Angeles and Brian Melley in Three Rivers contributed to this report.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  As questions linger about safety protocols on the movie set where Alec Baldwin killed a cinematographer with a prop gun hed been told was safe, Hollywood professionals say theyre baffled by the circumstances and production crews have quickly stepped up safety measures.

Jeffrey Wright, who has worked on projects including the James Bond franchise and the upcoming movie The Batman, was acting with a weapon on the set of Westworld when news broke of the shooting Thursday at a New Mexico ranch. We were all pretty shocked. And it informed what we did from that moment on, he said in an interview Sunday at the Newport Beach Film Festival.

I dont recall ever being handed a weapon that was not cleared in front of me  meaning chamber open, barrel shown to me, light flashed inside the barrel to make sure that its cleared," Wright said. Clearly, that was a mismanaged set.

The shooting on the set of the film Rust killed 42-year-old Halyna Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza, who was standing behind her.

The gun Baldwin used was one of three that a firearms specialist, or armorer, had set on a cart outside the building where a scene was being rehearsed, according to court records. Assistant director Dave Halls grabbed a gun off a cart and handed it to Baldwin, indicating that the weapon was safe by yelling cold gun, court papers say. But it was loaded with live rounds, according to the records.

Baldwin, 63, who is known for his roles in 30 Rock and The Hunt for Red October and his impression of former President Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live, has described the killing as a tragic accident.

The Umbrella Academy actor Justin Min, also at the Newport festival, said its been a very somber time" in recent days on set as hes been filming the indie thriller Detained.

After that  I mean we have obviously already been careful, but its just another level of precaution, Min said.

A prop maker and licensed pyrotechnician who worked with Halls, the assistant director, on another production said she had raised safety concerns about him in the past.

Maggie Goll said in a statement that she filed an internal complaint with the executive producers of Hulus Into the Dark series in 2019 over concerns about Halls' behavior on set. Goll said in a phone interview Sunday that Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician lost consciousness on set.

Halls has not returned phone calls and email messages seeking comment. Rust Movie Productions has not answered repeated emails seeking comment.

The fatal shooting and previous experiences point to larger safety issues that need to be addressed, Goll said, adding that crew member safety and wellbeing are top issues in ongoing contract negotiations between a union that represents film and TV workers and a major producers' group.

This situation is not about Dave Halls. ... Its in no way one persons fault, she said. "Its a bigger conversation about safety on set and what we are trying to achieve with that culture.

A vigil for Hutchins was held Sunday in Southern California, where attendees exchanged tearful hugs and speakers echoed calls for heightened safety standards.

Actor Rosanna Arquette joined many in Hollywood in calling for a move away from using real weapons, whether armed with blanks or bullets.

I hope this wakes people up. Because there should be no live round anything ever on a movie. We have enough CGI, we have enough  its absurd, she said. All of us are shaken to the core in the industry about this.

Actor Ray Liotta agreed with Wright that the checks on firearms are usually extensive.

They always  that I know of  they check it so you can see, Liotta said. They give it to the person youre pointing the gun at, they do it to the producer, they show whoever is there that it doesnt work.

Baldwin, who is a producer on Rust, met with Hutchins' husband and 9-year-old son Saturday at a hotel in Santa Fe where the actor had been staying during filming. Baldwin and Hutchins' husband can be seen embracing in a photo published by the New York Post.

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Flaccus reported from Portland, Oregon. Michelle Eaton in Newport Beach, California, contributed to this report.
BEIRUT (AP)  For eight months, he has quietly investigated one of the worlds worst non-nuclear explosions with only four assistants  and a lot of powerful detractors trying to block him.

In that time, Judge Tarek Bitar has become a household name in Lebanon and a staple on every news bulletin.

For many Lebanese, Bitar's investigation of last years massive Beirut port explosion is their only hope for truth and accountability in a country that craves both. Billboards in Beirut showing a fist holding a gavel read: Only Tarek can take our revenge, a play on Arabic words using the judges last name.

But to the countrys entrenched political class, the enigmatic 47-year-old has turned into a nightmare. Politicians have united as they rarely do to remove him from his post, apparently deeming him a threat much greater than the countrys collapsing economy, the states empty coffers and burgeoning unemployment, poverty and public anger.

Bitar has not shied away from summoning a dozen senior former and current government officials, some of them on charges of criminal negligence and homicide with probable intent. He issued arrest warrants for two former ministers when they refused to appear before him.

More than 215 people died in the Aug. 4, 2020 port explosion, caused by the detonation of hundreds of tons of ammonium nitrate stored in a warehouse for years, apparently with the knowledge of senior politicians and security officials who did nothing about it. The explosion also injured 6,000 people and destroyed parts of the city.

More than a year after the government launched a judicial investigation, nearly everything else remains unknown - from who ordered the shipment to why officials ignored repeated warnings of the danger.

But the low-profile Bitar  there are only a few public pictures of him  has earned the trust of many Lebanese, including relatives of the victims.

We have big faith, up to 90%, that Judge Bitar will lead us to justice," said George Bezdjian, whose daughter Jessica, a nurse, was killed in the explosion.

Bezdjian and others who have met Bitar describe a soft-spoken, calm and courageous man who has stayed clear of political affiliations or nepotism and displayed professionalism and doggedness.

On a recent day there was no electricity in the judges office. In the humid room, Bitar and two assistants shared one computer monitor, a legal expert familiar with the case said.

It is quite shocking when you walk into his office and there is one computer screen and two people helping him ... as he is trying to solve the biggest crime in Lebanons modern history, the legal expert said, speaking on condition of anonymity to divulge details from the private meeting.

The second judge to lead the case, Bitar was appointed in February. His work has been challenged every step of the way.

At first, suspected officials took cover behind parliamentary or professional immunity, declining to appear before him. They accused him of singling out some officials and not others, in an apparent attempt to stoke sectarian grudges in a country divided along sectarian lines. Then they sued him and tried to discredit him, saying he showed bias and was allied with foreign powers.

Earlier this month, the call to remove him finally came  from Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, arguably the country's most powerful man.

An anti-Bitar protest by supporters of Hezbollah and the allied Shiite group Amal, led by Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, escalated into the worst violence the capital has seen in years. Seven people were killed and accusations followed that Bitar was a threat to social peace.

The investigative judge Bitar has become a real problem in Lebanon, Hezbollah deputy leader Naim Kassim said Saturday. Because of him we nearly had a major strife, he said, in the clearest attempt yet to tie Bitar to civil unrest.

Hatem Madi, a veteran judge and prosecutor, said he never before witnessed such a standoff between the political class and the judiciary.

The new government of Prime Minister Najib Mikati is already in a deadlock over how to respond to calls for removal of Bitar.

Meanwhile, Bitar has not backed down, reissuing his summonses to senior officials. He now moves around with guards.

The judge has been open to visitors and questions about the legal process, but he is careful not to divulge his next moves, the legal expert said.

Born in 1974 to a secular Catholic family from northern Lebanon, Bitar studied law at the Lebanese University in Beirut and later trained at a judicial academy to graduate as a judge. He was appointed a public attorney in northern Lebanon in 2012, a post he retained until 2017, when he was appointed head of the Beirut Criminal Court.

There, he issued several sentences in cases that shook Lebanon, such as the shooting at close range of a young man following a traffic accident. He also fined private hospital doctors a hefty sum for a case of malpractice that cost a young girl her four limbs.

Bitar was first approached by the former justice minister to take the post soon after the port explosion. Realizing the size of the challenge, Bitar told people he met that he asked for a bigger team of assistants for the probe. He also requested that the immunity of lawmakers be lifted so he could question them.

No one replied to his requests, which would have required legal amendments, the legal expert said.

The same minister approached Bitar again in February after his predecessor was removed by a court order following legal challenges from politicians. He agreed after realizing he was the only candidate.

Relatives of victims of the port blast described Bitar as deeply sympathetic to their quest for justice. One man said the judge told him he approached the case as if his own daughter had been killed.

Bezdjian said Bitar told the families that he feels a responsibility because of those killed, wounded and displaced and because half of my capital was destroyed."
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Biden administration on Monday suspended $700 million in financial assistance to Sudan following a coup in the African nation that U.S. officials roundly condemned.

The State Department said the full amount of the aid package had been put on pause pending a review of the developments in Khartoum that saw the military oust a civilian-led transitional authority and detain many of its members. Spokesman Ned Price called for the immediate release of those arrested, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, and the restoration of the civilian authority.

The civilian-led transitional government should be immediately restored. It represents the will of the Sudanese people, as evidenced by the significant, peaceful demonstrations of support, Price said. We recognize the legitimate grievances about the pace of the transition, but (the) dismissal of government officials and dissolution of government institutions, both violate Sudans constitutional declaration and abandon the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people.

Military officials should immediately release and ensure the safety of all detained political actors, fully restore the civilian led transitional government and refrain from any violence against protesters, including the use of live ammunition, Price said. Any change to the transitional government by force risks assistance and our bilateral relationship more broadly.

The suspended aid was direct financial support intended to help the country transition to a fully civilian government. Price said additional U.S. aid to the country could also be at risk, along with the broader relationship. Ties between Washington and Khartoum had been warming since Sudan agreed to pay compensation to the victims of the 1998 embassy bombings in neighboring Kenya and nearby Tanzania that were planned on Sudanese soil by Osama bin Ladens al-Qaida network. Sudan had been removed from the U.S. list of state sponsors of terrorism late last year.

It was not immediately clear how much aid the U.S. is providing Sudan in addition to the $700 million that was suspended. Many forms of U.S. assistance, including military aid, are still barred due to a decades-old determination that a coup had brought Sudans now-deposed authoritarian leader Omar al-Bashir to power in 1989. That determination had not been rescinded despite the recent thaw in relations.

Price said the administration was watching developments very closely and will not hesitate to hold those responsible for the coup to account, including through the restoration of sanctions that had been lifted or eased after Sudan's removal from the terrorism sponsor list.

The coup unfolded just hours after the U.S. special envoy for the Horn of Africa, Jeffrey Feltman, left Khartoum where he had met senior Sudanese military and civilian officials to try to urge a calming of tensions and reconciliation to keep the transition on track.

Price said Feltman warned military chief Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan and others that any unconstitutional changes in the government would have consequences. U.S. officials said Feltman had departed about three hours before the arrests began without any knowledge of what was about to happen.

To be clear, we were not given any heads up about this, Price said. Clearly an action like this is something that the United States would, and now does, oppose and condemns in the strongest possible terms.
My wife recently celebrated a milestone birthday, so to her delight, I booked a vacation in the Dominican Republic at an all-inclusive resort. My wife loves nothing more than laying on the beach all day in the sun, sipping on a cocktail. To her, the only thing better than laying on the beach sipping on a cocktail is laying on the beach with a personal valet bringing you cocktails.

I love the idea of all-inclusive resorts because there are few surprises when it comes time to pay the bill. Tipping, however, is a gray area. Do I tip? Do I not? Is it expected? I now err on the side of caution and bring a pocket full of ones, fives, tens and twenties and find that it makes the trip so much more enjoyable.

I was not surprised at the level of service we received at the Excellence resort, but what I was not expecting was the lesson I learned at breakfast one morning. I am a coffee drinker. My day is not off to a good start unless Ive had my two cups. As a two Splenda with cream kind of guy, a pet peeve of mine is when the cream cools my coffee. At breakfast Samuel brought my coffee accompanied by sweetener and a small metal carafe of cream. When I reached for the cream the metal carafe burned my hand. The cream was hot. I said to the Samuel, the cream is hot and he replied of course, we dont want it to cool your coffee. Eureka! Why did I not think of that? Its been in front of me the entire time. The obvious solution to my problem  heat the cream.

Are you overlooking the obvious solutions to problems facing your credit union? So often we look outward for the answers when the solution lies inside. Do you have regular conversations with your team to mine for answers, solutions, and challenges to the status quo? Do your employees feel empowered to suggest changes? Take a look inside your credit union and you may find that the answers were there all along.
The expanded Internal Revenue Service (IRS) reporting proposal should be withdrawn and the administration should look at more targeted methods of tax enforcement, CUNA and other organizations wrote President Joe Biden Monday.

Our members, and the American people, believe that they have a reasonable right to privacy and this overly broad proposal to report gross annual inflows and outflows from nearly every account is disconnected from its purported narrow purpose of focusing government scrutiny on Americans with actual income above $400,000, the letter reads.

The proposal remains harmful to both financial institutions and consumers, despite changing the account threshold as part of recent negotiations.

These changes fail to address the reality that any program based on gross annual inflows and outflows will impact Americans from all income levels, the letter reads. Even with the proposed exclusions of certain types of income, a large number of common and totally innocent transactions by individuals and small businesses will be captured by this new regime.
Kankakee, IL (60901)

Today

Cloudy early with partial sunshine expected late. High near 50F. Winds SSW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy with occasional showers late at night. Low 34F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Japanese Princess Mako says she will walk together in a new life with her husband after they married without a celebration in a union that has split public opinion
Ryan Anderson/Daily Citizen-News

Volunteering "is something I enjoy -- it's important to me -- and a cause I really believe in," said Anna La, a junior at Dalton High School. "Volunteering makes you feel good -- it really does -- and it makes me happy."
Reva Mae Love, age 75, of Dalton, Georgia passed away on Thursday, November 18, 2021. She was born on September 10, 1946. She is preceded in death by parents, Herbert and Lela "Grant" Lawson; brother, Charles Lawson. She is survived by her husband, Bubba (Harold) Love of Dalton; son, Brian F
Jason Martin Moore, 40, of Ashland Ky, died Saturday November 13th, 2021 at Kings Daughters Medical Center in Ashland Ky. Jason was born September 4th, 1981 in Ashland KY. A son of the late Jarome "Marty" and Donna Roe Moore. He is preceded in death in addition to his parents by his grandmot
Social media users are going wild over actor Will Poulter's 'glow-up,' remarking on how 'hot' and 'sexy' he has become since many first came to know him in 2013's We're the Millers.

The 28-year-old was recently cast as Adam Warlock in Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, which doesn't hit theaters until May 2023  but the announcement has led to renewed attention for Poulter that has taken some fans by surprise.

Many who recognize him as the nerdy 20-year-old who starred with Jennifer Aniston, Jason Sudeikis, and Emma Roberts in We're the Millers couldn't believe their eyes when they saw photos of him taken nearly a decade later, with several expressing shock over his good looks.

That was then: Social media users are going wild over actor Will Poulter's 'glow-up.' The actor was previously well known for his role in 2013's We're the Millers

Ta-da! The 28-year-old was recently cast as Adam Warlock in Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3 (pictured October 13)

Older and wiser: Many who recognize him from We're the Millers couldn't believe their eyes when they saw photos of him taken nearly a decade later

Deadline reported that Poulter was joining the superhero franchise on October 11, and the news was shared with recent photos of the actor.

In recent years, the London-born star has appeared in the Hulu miniseries Dopesick (2021), The Score (2021), Midsommar (2019), and Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018).

But those who didn't catch those films and shows many be more familiar with his turn as Kenny in We're the Millers, when he was just 20  or his breakout role as Lee Carter in 2007's Son of Rambow, when he was only 15.

So many were surprised to realize that these days, they find him quite attractive.

'Holy moly. It *is* true. Will Poulter got jacked,' tweeted Entertainmetn Weekly writer Nick Romano.

Many were surprised to realize that these days, they find him quite attractive

'Sorry when did will poulter get sexy????' tweeted OK! magazine's Mared Parry.

'I think that we as a society should talk about how attractive will poulter is,' yet another Twitter user chimed in.

'With that hairstyle daaaamn he's so fine,' wrote a fourth.

Writer Lucy Ford described the phenomenon as 'the Hemsworthification of Will Poulter.'

'Suddenly everyone wants were the millers 2 - I see how yall move in this society,' another commenter said.

Over on TikTok, several women have shared videos dedicated to Poulter's 'glow-up'

Comments: He has been called the new Hemsworth brother, and also compared to Matthew Lewis, who had a glow-up while playing Neville Longbottom in the Harry Potter movies

Over on TikTok, several women have shared videos dedicated to Poulter's 'glow-up.'

'Feels like everyone after going to Marvel just gets a glow up,' remarked one commenter.

'I called it. I knew he'd be the next Neville Longbottom,' said another, referring to actor Matthew Lewis  whom fans were also amazed to see grow more attractive as an adult.

Several others compared him to a Hemsworth and Matthew Lewis.
An American teacher has revealed exactly what it's like shopping in Kmart in Australia.

The young woman made a TikTok showing off her usual Kmart experience which usually starts with 'nipping in for one thing'.

In the video Sydney-based teacher Kaymie Wuerfel said she needed socks, before deciding to head to Kmart to get them.

An American teacher has revealed exactly what it's like shopping in Kmart in Australia

Titled: 'My first time down the rabbit hole in Kmart' the video shows Kaymie picking up almost everything except socks.

The video starts with the young teacher promising her husband she 'won't be too long' after deciding to go into the popular store.

But five seconds later her facial expressions change as she spots some nice clothes.

She then acts out going through the homewares section.

'I definitely need these candles,' she says tucking them under her arm.

'I totally need Tupperware, such a good deal,' she said grabbing plastic containers.

She then showed her confusion at finding the checkouts in the middle of the store instead of at the exit.

Once checked out she revealed she didn't buy the socks that she went in there for in the first place.

The teacher also made a joke about having to go to the front of the store to pay

The cheeky video appeared to hit the spot with her audience - as it quickly went viral.

'It still confuses me why we pay at the middle of the store,' one woman said.

Others joked the young woman would soon be joining the Kmart Hacks Facebook Page which is popular among the stores' shoppers.

The young woman is married to an Australian man - and has a large following on TikTok

'The special buys aisle in Aldi is even worse, you end up with an arc welder or something else you never needed,' said another.

Some people joked the Kmart experience in the video is not unique to Americans shopping at Kmart, that Australians go down the rabbit hole in the same way.

'The Kmart experience is truly universal,' one woman laughed.
A cafe offering 15 different jaffles on its menu, a hotel with a 'magical lagoon' and a restaurant serving the perfect hot chips are some of the most underrated gems that have been voted best in Australia.

Travel site Wotif.com has announced the winners of people's choice for its Uniquely Aussie Awards, an annual guide to the country's quintessential experiences across six categories.

The awards highlight the nation's best kept local secrets - including hot chips on the beach, regional bakeries serving up nostalgic baked goods, country pubs full of colourful characters, and stunning hotel pools in iconic Aussie settings.

New South Wales took home the crown for the Best Jaffles with Miss Jaffles in Cronulla and Best Country Pub with Beechwood Hotel in Beechwood.

South Australia won the Best Hot Chips with Chicken Chef in Blair Athol while Victoria had the Best Vanilla Slice at Bridgewater Bakehouse.

JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort and Spa in Queensland claimed the title for the 'Best Hotel Pool' while Northern Territory's Kakadu National Park was named Best National Park'.

Travel site Wotif.com has announced the winners of people's choice for its Uniquely Aussie Awards, an annual guide to the country's quintessential experiences across six categories (picture of Australia's best country pub - Beechwood Hotel in New South Wales)

Revealed: Wotif 2021 Uniquely Aussie Award National Winners Best Jaffle: Miss Jaffles, Cronulla, New South Wales Best Vanilla Slice: Bridgewater Bakehouse, Bridgewater & Bendigo, Victoria Best Country Pub: Beechwood Hotel, Beechwood, New South Wales Best Hot Chips: Chicken Chef, Blair Athol, South Australia Best Hotel Pool: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, Gold Coast, Queensland Best National Park: Kakadu National Park, Jabiru, Northern Territory Advertisement

'Country charm, cheesy jaffles and creamy vanilla slices - no one does them quite like Australia, and the thousands of nominations we received this year shows Aussies are a passionate bunch,' Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said.

'There's so much to love and discover about Australia, and with a really exciting summer period ahead, we hope to inspire and encourage Aussies to plan their next adventure and support local businesses.'

Now in its fourth year, the awards aim to encourage Aussies to explore their own backyard and support their favourite businesses.

And it's more relevant than ever following the continued challenges faced by the tourism and hospitality industries over the past 18 months.

Raking in thousands of nominations from all over the country, it's clear the little things in life often stir the greatest debate.

Whether you prefer chicken salt or gravy on your chips, call it a snot block over a vanilla slice, or demand a savoury rather than sweet jaffle, this year's awards continue to uncover some of the nation's best hidden travel gems.

Miss Jaffles in Cronulla, an affluent beachside suburb of Sydney, offers 15 different jaffles on its menu - and there's one for every occasion

Best Jaffle: Miss Jaffles, Cronulla, NSW

The humble Aussie jaffle has sure come a long way. These days, it's all about variety, with 'cool flavour combos' and 'fancy fillings'.

Miss Jaffles in Cronulla, an affluent beachside suburb of Sydney, offers 15 types of jaffles on its menu - and there's one for every occasion.

Jaffles include the savoury Miss Hangover featuring bacon, egg, hash brown and onion relish and the decadent dessert Miss Biscoff - complete with Caramilk, Biscoff, strawberries and ice cream with crimped toasted bread.

Best Vanilla Slice: Bridgewater Bakehouse, Bridgewater, VIC

Bridgewater Bakehouse's famous back to back award-winning vanilla slice consists of a smooth vanilla flavoured custard centre with a crisp flaky pastry and a sweet glossy icing

Bridgewater Bakehouse is a traditional bakery located in north central Victoria, about a 30 minute drive from Bendigo.

Its famous back to back award-winning vanilla slice consists of a smooth vanilla flavoured custard centre with a crisp flaky pastry and a sweet glossy icing.

The slice offers the perfect ratio of silky-smooth 'melt in your mouth' custard and crisp (never soggy) pastry, topped with a 'can't help yourself' layer of icing.

Best Country Pub: Beechwood Hotel, Beechwood, NSW

Beechwood Hotel is a country pub offering some of Australia's best country hospitality

Beechwood Hotel is a country pub located about 300km north-northeast from Sydney, and it's said to be at the heart of its community.

With friendly service, great food and a true-blue history (if you feel like ditching the car, there's a spot out front for your horse), this humble pub offers some of Australia's best country hospitality.

Best Hot Chips: Chicken Chef, Blair Athol, SA

Chicken Chef's in Blair Athol, just 15km north of the Adelaide CBD has mastered the crispy on the outside, soft on the inside requirement of any good hot chip

The restaurant's 'mouthwatering' hot chips and famous salt are beloved by locals

Chicken Chef's in Blair Athol, just 15km north of the Adelaide CBD has mastered the crispy on the outside, soft on the inside requirement of any good hot chip.

The restaurant's 'mouthwatering' hot chips and famous salt are beloved by locals.

The secret to their winning recipe? No short cuts. Handmade with the freshest potatoes and double cooked for that signature crunch.

Best Hotel Pool: JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa, QLD

The 'magical lagoon' at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa on the Gold Coast is anything but your average hotel swimming pool

The 'magical lagoon' at JW Marriott Gold Coast Resort & Spa on the Gold Coast is anything but your average hotel swimming pool.

Whether it's snorkeling with tropical fish, gliding down the waterslide or cocktails in your cabana, everyone's a winner here.

Best National Park: Kakadu National Park, Jabiru, NT

Australia's largest national park is also the best according to Aussies, thanks to its historical and cultural significance, beautiful scenery and incredible wildlife

Australia's largest national park is also the best according to Aussies, thanks to its historical and cultural significance, beautiful scenery and incredible wildlife.

Kakadu National Park in Jabiru, a town in the Northern Territory offers a 'truly spectacular experience' that every Aussie needs to do.
The world's largest jumping castle is returning to Australia - complete with a 300-metre long inflatable obstacle course, giant slides, a ball-pit and a DJ.

Adults are invited to embrace their inner child as The Big Bounce Australia is set to launch the action-packed event around the country over summer.

Dates for Sydney, Wollongong, Newcastle, Melbourne, Adelaide, Canberra and Geelong are yet to be announced but the three-hour event will head to Perth from November 26 to 28 and between December 3 to 5 and 10 to 12.

The event is expected to head to Brisbane in January between 14 to 16 and 21 to 23.

Offering family passes and adults-only tickets, Aussies get all access to three attractions - The World's Biggest Jumping Castle, 'The Giant' and 'Air Space'.

The 1,500 square metre jumping castle has been certified as the world's largest by Guinness World Records and includes climbing towers, a giant slide that lands riders in a ball-pit, over-sized couches and a 70m tall, multi-coloured rabbit to climb.

The world's largest jumping castle is returning to Australia - complete with a 300-metre long inflatable obstacle course, giant slides, a ball-pit and a DJ

Adults are invited to embrace their inner child as Big Bounce Australia is set to launch the action-packed event around the country over summer

The Biggest Bounce insists there are just two rules for bouncers - wear socks at all times and 'behave like an overgrown child'

The 1,500 square metre jumping castle has been certified as the world's largest by Guinness World Records and includes climbing towers, a giant slide that lands riders in a ball-pit, over-sized couches and chairs and a 70m tall, multi-coloured rabbit to climb

The event first came to Australia in early 2020.

Guests can expect DJ blasting music tailored to each age group, party games, confetti blasts, snow machines and dodgeball competitions taking place.

Aussies can also enjoy two other attractions: The Giant and the Air Space.

The aptly named Giant is a 300 metre long inflatable obstacle course inspired by Ninja Warrior.

The aptly named Giant is a 300 metre long inflatable obstacle course inspired by Ninja Warrior

There are 50 different obstacles for visitors to run, jump, crawl and flip through before they reach a giant slide at the end

Offering family passes and adults-only tickets, Aussies get all access to the world's biggest jumping castle, 'The Giant' and 'Air Space'

There are 50 different obstacles for visitors to run, jump, crawl and flip through before they reach a giant slide at the end.

Air Space is described as an 'out of this world' experience with 'aliens', space ships, moon craters and space-inspired inflatables.
A bakery has created a twist on the classic lamington - complete with a charcoal cake and whipped pumpkin cream.

Tokyo Lamington in Sydney has switched up its quirky Japanese inspired twists to unveil the charcoal and pumpkin lamington just in time for Halloween.

The dessert, available this weekend, consists of whipped pumpkin cream, charcoal cake, white chocolate dip and a desiccated charcoal coconut coating.

Tokyo Lamington in Sydney has created a twist on the classic lamington - complete with a charcoal cake and whipped pumpkin cream- just in time for Halloween

Poll Would you try a charcoal and pumpkin lamington? Yes No Would you try a charcoal and pumpkin lamington? Yes 6 votes

No 5 votes Now share your opinion





Many foodies said they were keen to try out the unique flavour concoction, with one saying: 'That looks so good.'

While another added: 'That sounds like an interesting flavour.'

This is the second time the bakery is unveiling its charcoal and pumpkin lamington for Halloween, with many who tried the flavour saying it was tasty.

'This flavour is the bomb,' one wrote, while another said: 'This naughty treat will blow you away. It's refreshing, not too sweet not too dense. So yummy, it was definitely stand out for me.'

Earlier this year, Tokyo Lamington teamed up with Vietnamese restaurant Hello Auntie to create a range of lamingtons filled with Asian-fusion flavours to celebrate Lunar New Year

Founders Min Chai and former Black Star pastry chef Eddie Stewart have been working with bold flavours in recent years to transform the classic lamington into an epic range of desserts.

Earlier this year, Tokyo Lamington teamed up with Vietnamese restaurant Hello Auntie to create a range of lamingtons filled with a mix of Asian-fusion flavours to celebrate Lunar New Year.

The lamington flavours included a beef red curry katsu, pandan and pineapple tart.
A shipwreck that dates back to the darkest days of World War Two is now a spectacular diving site off Australia's east coast.

After being requisitioned for service the US military in July 1943, the HMS Protector was on its way to a naval base in Papua New Guinea when it was damaged in a collision with a tug boat and abandoned off the coast of Heron Island, Queensland.

Almost 70 years later, the rusted wreck is one of the state's most breathtaking underwater attractions, inspiring visitors with its formidable size and incredible history.

Travel photographer Mark Fitz described it as one of his favourite snorkelling spots on Earth.

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This shipwreck was once the HMS Protector which collided with a tug boat on its way to active service in Papua New Guinea at the height of World War Two in July 1943

Almost 70 years later, the rusted wreck (left) is one of the state's most breathtaking underwater attractions, inspiring visitors with its formidable size and incredible history

At low tide, the ship's hull be reached by wading through the ocean and walking along the sparkling white sand bar.

Sitting 80 kilometres north-east of Gladstone, Heron Island is a natural coral cay surrounded by 24 hectares of coral reef at the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef.

Famed for its spectacular coral reef, the island is home to an array of extraordinary animals including migrating whales and nesting turtles who glide between gaps in the wreck.

Photos of the ship have sparked stunned responses on Instagram, with many shocked that such a massive piece of WWII history can be found in Australia.

'It looks like a dream! Going next time I'm in Australia,' one woman wrote.

Another added: 'Mate this is way up near the top of my bucket list.'

At low tide, the ship's hull be reached by wading through the ocean and walking along the sparkling white sand bar

Famed for its spectacular coral reef, Heron Island is home to an array of extraordinary animals including migrating whales and nesting turtles who glide between gaps in the wreck

Photos of the ship have sparked stunned responses on Instagram, with many shocked that such a massive piece of WWII history can be found in Australia

Getting to Heron Island takes a bit of planning, but travel review sites insist it is more than worth the effort.

The closest commercial airport is located 72km from Heron Island in Gladstone, which is serviced with regular flights from Brisbane.

Once you touch down in Gladstone, there two options to get to the island itself - a boat which costs $75 for a one-way trip, or a helicopter which will set you back $940 for a return ticket.
Weddings are supposed to be a day of untainted love and joy.

But not so for Japan's Princess Mako, who has today renounced her royal title after going against tradition to marry her university sweetheart.

The issue has arisen because her long-term boyfriend Kei Komuro, 30, a lawyer with a New York law firm whom she met at Tokyo's International Christian University almost a decade ago, is a commoner.

By marrying him today, Mako, 30, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of reigning Emperor Naruhito, has chosen love over her title, duties as a royal, and official place within the family.

Japan's strict laws of succession forbid women from ascending to the Chrysanthemum Throne and force them to give up their titles if they marry commoners.

The wedding has sent shockwaves through Japan - a country where the royal family face huge pressure to conform to tradition and meet exacting standards of behaviour, with each move intensely scrutinised.

It marks a dramatic, if slow burning, departure for the princess, a graduate of Leicester University who worked at Coventry Museums, who was happy to conform to expectation in her early years.

Mako, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of Emperor Naruhito, has chosen love over her duties as a royal, and place within the family. Pictured, Mako, right, with her parents and younger sister Kako at t Akasaka Palace in Tokyo in 1999

High profile: Princess Mako of Japan, right, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito, donned a traditional Junihitoe as she took part in a procession through Tokyo's Imperial Palace to mark her uncle's formal ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019

Weddings are supposed to be a day of love and joy. But not so for Japan's Princess Mako, who has been formally removed from the royal family on marrying her university sweetheart. Pictured, the newlyweds at a press conference to announce their low-key civil service in Tokyo

Born on October 23, 1991, Mako is the oldest child of Fumihito, Prince Akishino, and his wife, Princess Kiko, who were college sweethearts, like Mako and Komuro.

The birth of the first granddaughter to then-Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko was greeted by intense media coverage despite the fact that she could not, by law, inherit the throne.

This included the proud father telling reporters after viewing his newborn daughter: 'She's cute. She looks like me.'

Mako was followed three years later by her sister Kako, and the two were joined by their brother Hisahito in 2006, the first male born to the imperial family since 1965.

The Imperial Household Law of 1947 stipulates that only males in the family's male line can ascend to the throne. It means that while Emperor Naruhito has a daughter Aiko, 19, it is his brother the Crown Prince Fumihito who takes precedence.

Similarly the Crown Prince's daughters, Mako and Kako, 26, will be passed over in favour of his son Prince Hisahito, 15.

Princess Mako of Akishino is seen outside the Hayama Imperial Villa on January 26, 1996 in Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan (left) and right, Princess Kiko of Akishino holding her daughter n August 7, 1992 in Karuizawa, Nagano

Japanese Prince Hisahito (C), the son of Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, plays with his sisters Princess Mako (L) and Princess Kako (R) at his residence in Tokyo 31 August 2007

Prince Hisahito (centre), the son of Prince Akishino (left) and Princess Kiko (second left), plays with a dog as Prince Akishino family visits Karuizawa mountain resort in Nagano prefecture on May 3, 2008 while Prince Hisahito's sisters Princess Mako (fourth left) and Princess Kako (5th left) look on

Princess Mako, in blue, in 2005 with members of the royal family including her parents (back row), uncle, centre, who is now the Emperor, and younger sister, in yellow

There is only one other man - the Emperor's 85-year-old uncle, Prince Hitachi - who is eligible for the throne under current rules.

The stress of royal life: Other Japanese princesses whose health has suffered Other female royals have suffered from stress-related illnesses, especially after joining the family through marriage. Mako's aunt Empress Masako, a former high-flying diplomat, has struggled for years, with some observers blaming the pressure of producing a male heir. The imperial couple have one daughter, Aiko, who is 19 years old. And Michiko, wife to Naruhito's father Akihito and the first commoner to marry into the family, also faced criticism from hardliners and tabloid gossip, especially in the early years of their marriage. She once lost her voice for months, and has also suffered stomach problems linked to stress. Advertisement

If the young Prince Hisahito does not have a male child, the line of succession will be broken - prompting some debate about changing the rules, with polls showing the Japanese public broadly support women being allowed to rule.

Although traditionalists are vehemently against the idea, Japan has had as many as eight empresses in the past.

The last one, Gosakuramachi, was on the throne about 250 years ago.

Though Mako initially followed royal tradition and attended the elite Gakushuin school through the end of high school, she broke with custom by not continuing at the institution for her university studies, choosing instead to attend Tokyo's International Christian University.

It is here she met Komuro, at a meeting of students planning to go abroad in 2012. Komuro, raised by a single mother, had a much less privileged start in life and spent some time working for tourism promotion near Tokyo to earn money.

Mako spent a year at the University of Edinburgh and reportedly studied for a period in Dublin.

She graduated in 2014 with a degree in art and cultural studies and later obtained a master's degree in Art Museum and Gallery studies from the University of Leicester.

As part of her degree programme Princess Mako has also completed a placement at Coventry Museums and collections-based research at New Walk Museum in Leicester.

Speaking at a press opportunity marking the end of her year of taught Master's degree, Princess Mako said in Japanese that her time at the University of Leicester had been 'a wonderful experience'.

Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito (L) and Crown Princess Masako (R) waving to people during the parade after their wedding ceremony in Tokyo on 9 June 1993

Princess Kiko and Princess Mako of Akishino visit the 'Cultural Crossings - Tang Art and the Japanese Envoys' exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum on August 29, 2000 in Tokyo, Japan

Daughters of Japanese Prince Akishino, Princess Mako (R) and Princess Kako, arrives at the Aiiku hospital to see her mother Princess Kiko and their new baby 06 September 2006

Princess Mako of Akishino poses for photographs prior to attend the graduation ceremony at the International Christian University on March 26, 2014 in Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan

Princess Mako (L) and Princess Kako smile as Mako graduates from Gakushuin girls' high school and Kako graduates the junior high school in Tokyo on March 22, 2010

End of the line: Princess Mako is expected to lose her royal titles when she marries Kei Komuro, whom she met while studying at International Christian University (ICU) and is set to marry next year after postponing their wedding in 2018. Pictured, the princess in 2011

Japan's Princess Mako stands on a bulletproofed balcony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo to greet well-wishers who throng to the palace compound to celebrate Emperor Akihito's 78th birthday in 2011

Head of the School of Museum Studies Dr Suzanne Macleod said at the time: 'We have a strong connection to the cultural profession in Japan with many students graduating from our School to take up posts in museums and galleries there and so it felt very natural that Mako should come and follow her interests with us.

'She has been a pleasure to teach, has worked incredibly hard and should be very proud of her achievements.'

Mako and Komuro became engaged in secret before announcing the news in September 2017. Shortly afterwards it was announced the pair would wed in November 2018.

Trouble erupted a few months after he and Mako announced their engagement in 2017, when tabloids reported a financial dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance, with the man claiming mother and son had failed to repay a debt of about $35,000.

Princess Mako, Princess Kako, Prince Hisahito, Princess Kiko and Prince Akishino are seen at refurbished Akasaka State Guest House on May 30, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan

Princess Mako of Akishino talks with guests during the Autumn Garden Party at Akasaka Imperial Garden on November 09, 2018 in Tokyo, Japan

Princess Mako (in blue) has taken on a more active role within the family in the months since her uncle was made Emperor and her father heir to the throne in May. Pictured (l-r) Princess Kako, and Princess Mako with parents Crown Princess Kiko and Crown Prince Fumihito

Princess Mako of Akishino and Princess Kako of Akishino arrive at the arrive at Shinhama Kamoba (Shinhama Imperial Wild Duck Preserve) on December 17, 2019 in Ichikawa, Chiba, Japan

Some reports say the fiance paid for part of Komuro's education.

Komuro later said the money had been a gift, not a loan. But in 2021, he submitted a 24-page explanation and later reportedly said he would pay a settlement.

In September 2018, he left for studies at New York's Fordham University and didn't return until September this year, after having graduated from law school and started working at a New York law firm. He took the bar exam in July, with results due in December.

Meanwhile, Mako had started to take on a more high-profile role within the royal family. In 2019 she donned a traditional Junihitoe as she took part in a procession through Tokyo's Imperial Palace to mark her uncle's formal ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne.

She also took on official engagements that would have previously fallen to her parents, including making an official visit to South America in July that year.

However now she will be leaving it all behind as she joins Komuro to build a new life together in New York. They will do so without royal money.

Mako has also declined the 140 million yen ($1.23 million) dowry to which she was entitled for leaving the imperial family, palace officials said.

She is the first imperial family member since World War II to not receive the payment while marrying a commoner and chose to do so because of the criticism over her marrying a man some consider unfit for the princess.

Japan's Princess Mako, center, the granddaughter of Emperor Akihito, is flanked by Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, left, and Queen Jetsun Pema, right, as they pose at the Royal Bhutan Flower Exhibition in Paro, Bhutan, Sunday, June 4, 2017

Princess Mako of Akishino attends the state dinner in honour of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium at the Imperial Palace on October 11, 2016 in Tokyo (left) and (right) with Princess Kako at the tea party marking the 30th anniversary on throne at the Imperial Palace on February 26, 2019

Japan's Emperor Naruhito, seated third from left, and Empress Masako, seated third from right, pose with their family members for a family photo, including Mako (standing, far left)

Japanese Princess Mako (L), the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Akishino, and Bolivia's Foreign Minister Diego Pary attend a wreath laying ceremony at Plaza Murillo in La Paz, on July 15, 2019

Japanese Princess Mako greets children at Okinawa's Japanese Community, 80km northeast Santa Cruz, Bolivia, on July 19, 2019, during celebrations for the 120th anniversary of the Japanese immigration to Bolivia

Princess Mako of Akishino is seen on departure for Bolivia and Peru at Narita International Airport on July 9, 2019 in Narita, Chiba, Japan

Reading out a prepared statement today, Mako defended her decision to marry while describing Kei as 'irreplaceable' and adding that 'our marriage is a necessary step for us to be able to protect our hearts.'

She also criticised news reports written during their engagement which she accused of spreading false information and 'one-sided rumours', which she said had left her 'feeling sadness and pain.'

The royal household previously revealed she is suffering PTSD.

Kei also apologised but said that he loved Mako and would support her throughout their life together.

'I love Mako. We only get one life, and I want us to spend it with the one we love,' he said. 'I feel very sad that Mako has been in a bad condition, mentally and physically, because of the false accusations.'

The couple did not answer questions to make the experience easier for Mako, but did issue a page of written responses to five pre-selected questions. One asked about Mako's condition, to which she responded: 'Not good'.
Princess Charlene of Monaco has shared her heartbreak online after her beloved pet dog died after being run over.

The former Olympian, 43, who has been living in her home country of South Africa for much of this year, took to Instagram today to share a photo snuggling up with her pooch Angel, which was taken last Christmas in Monaco.

The mother-of-two posted: 'My little Angel died last night, she was run over. I will miss you so much, Rest In Peace.'

It comes after she sparked concern among fans following her latest appearance online, with some saying she appeared 'frail'.

On October 8, Zimbabwean-born Charlene underwent a final operation to deal with an ear, nose and throat infection she contracted in May - with a palace source telling AFP that the procedure 'went very well'.

Earlier this month Prince Albert insisted that his wife is likely to return to Monaco by the end of the month - after the pair denied rumours of a rift and insisted Charlene's absence from the principality is due to her contracting the 'serious sinus infection'.

Princess Charlene of Monaco, 43, has shared her heartbreak online after her beloved pet dog died after being run over (pictured)

It is unknown if Princess Charlene's pooch had been staying with her in South Africa or whether the pet had remained with Prince Albert in Monaco.

On her most recent public appearance, the mother-of-two, who last week said she 'can't wait to get home to her children', wore a smattering of makeup and styled her fringe to the side.

But her appearance in the social media post concerned fans, with one writing: 'Get well soon, you look so frail, take care, hope you get back to Monaco to your lovely family.'

Last week Princess Charlene said she 'can't wait to get home to her children' but made no reference to her husband Prince Albert in an interview given in South Africa.

It comes weeks after the mother-of-two sparked concern among fans following her latest appearance online

The former Olympian, 43, who has been living in her home country of South Africa for much of this year, took to Instagram to share a photo snuggling up with her pooch Angel

Charlene, who wed Prince Albert II in 2011, has been living in her home country of South Africa for much of this year, and the extended stay has stoked speculation that the royal couple may be headed for divorce.

However they have denied rumours of a rift and said Charlene's absence from the principality is due to her contracting the 'serious sinus infection' making her unable to travel and forcing her to miss key events, including her 10-year wedding anniversary and her children's first day of school.

In an interview which took place earlier this month and was shared on Charlene's Instagram page last week, the royal said she 'misses her children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, terribly', adding: 'Any mother out there who has been separated from her children for months would feel the same way I feel.'

In the clip, she said: 'I came to South Africa to oversee some foundation projects. I was unwell at the time, unknowingly, with an infection. It was addressed immediately. Unfortunately, it grounded me for some months in South Africa.

Earlier this month Prince Albert insisted that his wife (pictured with their children) is likely to return to Monaco by the end of the month

'I had my one procedure - it was very successful. I'm well, I'm feeling much stronger. I have one more procedure. Then I cannot wait to get home to my children, who I miss terribly.

Elsewhere in the interview she touched on community in South Africa, saying she would like to impart 'unity and strength.'

She said: 'Obviously I would never like to touch on anything politically. But what can be done, is people need to set their differences aside and think of the generations to come and less of themselves.

'Too much emphasis is put on ourselves and less on the future generations to come. What do they have to look back on? Who is their guide? That needs to be installed.'

Speaking about the anti-poaching work she has been undertaking while in South Africa this year, she said: 'I am determined to come back and continue the work I set out to do as I have done in many countries over Africa and in South Africa.

'Conservation, preservation, restoration and education. That is what my foundation stands for. We save lives.'

The release of the interview came days after a palace source said her final operation to deal with an ear, nose and throat infection she contracted in May 'went very well'.

The operation in South Africa was performed under general anaesthetic, and 'is the last she had to undergo following her ENT infection. She will be under observation for 48 hours,' the source told French news agency AFP.

Earlier this month Albert insisted that his wife is likely to return to Monaco by the end of the month, telling RMC Radio: 'She will be back very soon, we have to talk to the doctors in a few days.'

It comes amid reports that Prince Albert (pictured) 'applied for sovereign immunity' in his court battle to fight claims he fathered a third love child before marrying Charlene

It comes amid reports that Albert 'applied for sovereign immunity' in his court battle to fight claims he fathered a third love child before marrying Charlene.

The 63-year-old prince, who already supports two illegitimate children, is alleged to have had 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 the former Olympic swimmer in 2000.

It was reported last year that the case would go to court in Milan in February, however according to Town&Country, the prince's lawyers pleaded sovereign immunity and the case has been delayed.

Lawyer Erich Grimaldi, who is acting on behalf of the woman, said he hopes the judge will reject Albert's plea and he is waiting for the case to come back to court, which he believes will happen 'imminently'.

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 16, 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.'

Last December, 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.

Zimbabwean-born Charlene, 43, who wed Prince Albert II in 2011, has been living in her home country of South Africa for much of this year, and the extended stay has stoked speculation that the royal couple (pictured) may be headed for divorce

'This was before Charlene and Albert were an item, but the latest case covers a time when she was already in love with him,' a source who works closely with the Monaco Royal household revealed at the time.

'Charlene has had a terrible year, with one family crisis after another including Albert going down with coronavirus, and now she's gearing herself up for this hell.'

The princess, whose maiden name was Charlene Wittstock, was an Olympic swimmer for South Africa when she first met Albert at a Monaco aquatic competition in 2000.

How Charlene and Albert made solo outings in South Africa and Monaco during nine 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

September 1 - Charlene is admitted under an alias to the Netcare Alberlito Hospital after suddenly 'collapsing' September 2 - She is discharged, with a statement from the Palais Princier reading: 'Her Highness is closely monitored by Her medical team who said that Her condition was not worrying' September 23 - Prince Albert attends the 2021 Monte Carlo Gala for Planetary Health September 29 - Prince Albert is joined on the red carpet by actress Sharon Stone for a first look at the eagerly anticipated James Bond release September 30 - Charlene releases a stylish video promoting her anti-poaching campaign from her South African bolthole October 3 - Princess Charlene shares a photograph of herself smiling in front of a bible in her first snap since being discharged from hospital following her health scare October 5 - Prince Albert attends Sportel Awards Ceremony in Monte Carlo with nephew Louis Ducruet October 6 - Albert tells RMC radio Charlene is 'ready to come home' October 8 - Princess undergoes surgery in South Africa. The reason is not announced. Advertisement

They began dating soon afterwards, before Charlene married into the House of Grimaldi at a star-studded wedding in July 2011.

Their twins  daughter Gabriella and son Jacques  were born three years later and are seen as the family's official heirs.

By this time, Charlene had come to terms with Albert's hard fought legal battles with women who eventually won financial settlements over children they had with Albert  even though he originally denied their claims.

In May 2005, just before he was enthroned as Prince of Monaco, Albert confirmed he was the biological father of Alexandre, whose mother was Nicole Coste, a former Air France flight attendant from Togo.

A DNA test in May 2006 also confirmed Albert was the father of Jazmine Grace, the result of an affair with Tamara Rotolo, an American estate agent he met while she was on holiday in the South of France.

Jazmine was born in the 1990s and Alexandre in 2003. The Brazilian woman says she travelled around the world with the Prince in the 2000s.

Lawyer Grimaldi said he had filed papers with specific details of his client's love affair with Albert, including trips to Brazil, the USA, France and Russia.

While in Moscow, the lovers are even said to have had a meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, who gave the Brazilian 'a warm hug', according to court papers.

Albert's lawyer, Thierry Lacoste, has described the allegations as a 'a hoax', saying: 'There are no intimate photos, no tangible facts surrounding a possible relationship.'

Neither Albert's daughter Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, now 28, nor his son, Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste, 17, can claim the throne of Monaco, according to negotiated financial agreements.

The line of succession instead favours Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, six, and who frequently appear in their parents' social media posts.

The latest revelations come days after it emerged Princess Charlene's return to Monaco had been further delayed due to further surgery in South Africa.

The royal, who is originally from Cape Town, has been in her native South Africa for at least six months since contracting a 'serious sinus infection' making her unable to travel and forcing her to miss key events, including her 10-year wedding anniversary and her children's first day of school.

A statement from her foundation published on Friday read: 'Her Serene Highness Princess Charlene of Monaco will be placed under general anaesthetics for her final procedure taking place today. The Princess Charlene of Monaco Foundation wishes her the best with this final operation and her recovery process.'

The exact nature of the procedure was not revealed, and it remains unclear how long Charlene will remain in hospital.

The former Olympian underwent a 'four-hour operation under general anaesthesia' in August - although it was not made clear whether this was linked to the sinus infection.

Charlene and Albert reunited shortly after for the first time in months after the monarch and their children - six year old twins Jacques and Gabriella - flew to South Africa, but photographs of the pair embracing were branded 'awkward' by a body language expert.

In the last few weeks, Prince Albert has hit back at rumours of marital woes insisting 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 royal told People that the speculation over the state of his relationship with the Olympic swimmer has 'affected' them both, but that he didn't address it early because he 'was concentrating on taking care of the kids'.

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.

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'.
Starving Afghan families are selling their children in a desperate bid for money after the Taliban takeover put an end to the foreign funds that propped up the fragile economy, leaving it on the brink of collapse.

BBC reporter Yogita Limaye travelled to a village outside of Herat, in the west of the country, and spoke to a mother who sold her infant daughter for $500 to pay for food for her other children.

The buyer was an unnamed man who claimed he wanted to raise the girl to marry his son, but there is no guarantee of his intentions. He paid $250 upfront, enough to feed the family for a few months, and will pay the rest when he returns to collect the baby 'once she can walk'.

'My other children were dying of huger so we had to sell my daughter,' the mother of told the BBC. 'How can I not be sad? She is my child. I wish I didn't have to sell my daughter.'

Afghanistan - an impoverished country devastated by decades of conflict and rampant corruption - was dependent on overseas aid for some 40 per cent of its GDP even whilst it was ruled by a government propped up by the West.

But the Covid pandemic, drought, and the near-overnight collapse of its government and subsequent Taliban takeover three months ago has dramatically worsened the situation, with the country now on the verge of economic meltdown.

The value of its currency has plunged even as food prices have soared while aid has stopped, with workers going unpaid, businesses shut and families forced to flog off everything they own - including their own children - just to survive.

Reporter Yogita Limaye travelled to a village outside of Herat, in the west of the country, and spoke to a mother who sold her infant daughter, pictured, for $500 to pay for food

The parents explained they had no food for their other children, three pictured with their father. The man buying the girl paid $250 of the $500 and will return to collect her

The baby's father, who used to make money by collecting rubbish but is now struggling to make any money, explained the family felt they had no choice.

He said: 'We are starving. Right now we have no flour, no oil at home. We have nothing. My daughter has no idea what her future will be. I don't know how she will feel about it. But I had to do it.'

Child marriage has been practised in Afghanistan for centuries, but the country's dire economic situation has driven many families, like this one, to resort to striking deals earlier and earlier in girls' lives.

Boys' parents can drive a harder bargain and secure younger girls, spacing out the repayments.

The World Food Program warned that more than half the population of Afghanistan, around 22.8 million people, risk acute malnutrition and death in the coming months with a million children at risk of dying 'without immediate treatment'.

Millions of dollars will be needed to avert a worst-case scenario, the WFP said, but cash is being withheld by governments who are fearful that donations will be plundered by the Taliban.

Meanwhile a Save the Children report warned that families are 'selling what little they have to buy food, sending their children to work or getting by on bread alone.'

The mother, pictured, felt she had no other choice but to sell her daughter for the sake of her family. Her daughter will live with them until she can walk and will then be taken away

Underlining the severity of the situation, eight children were reported to have starved to death in the capital of Kabul this week.

Mohammad Ali Bamiyani, preacher of a nearby mosque, told journalists that the siblings had been orphaned in recent months after their father died of cancer and mother perished of a heart condition.

Speaking of the moment he entered the family's home, he said: 'All eight children were dead. It was clear that they had starved. The children were so hungry that they could not even stretch their legs.'

The WFP warns that levels of poverty which were once limited to Afghanistan's rural regions are now hitting big cities, all of which face food shortages this winter.

Desperate: The lack of foreign aid is also having a dangerous impact on the healthcare system. One mother, pictured, whose young twins are at the Medecins Sans Frontieres hospital in Herat told Limaye: 'Two of my children are facing death because we don't have any money

'Rampant unemployment and the liquidity crisis mean that all major urban centres are projected to face... food insecurity, including formerly middle-class populations,' Monday's report said.

Meanwhile the country's harsh winter is threatening to 'cut off' rural areas where 7.3million people are dependent on food aid after farms were hit by drought.

The WFP is now urgently appealing for funds, warning some $220million-per-month may be needed to keep everyone fed. Another $211million will be needed to help rural areas hit by drought, it said.

The lack of foreign aid is also having a dangerous impact on the healthcare system. Medical staff are not being paid, and there are no funds to buy medical supplies.

Even before the Taliban take-over of Afghanistan, the country relied on aid for 40 per cent of its GDP and the need has only increased since. Pictured, Taliban members stop women protesting for women's rights in Kabul on October 21

One mother, whose young twins are at the Medecins Sans Frontieres hospital in Herat told Limaye: 'Two of my children are facing death because we don't have any money.

'I want the world to help the Afghan people. I don't want any other mother to see their children suffer like this.'

World leaders have pledged some $1billion in aid for Afghanistan but are struggling to work out how to get it into the country without it being pilfered by the Taliban.

Alex Zerden, a former Treasury Department official and fellow at the Center for a New American Security, warned CNBC last month that the potential for corruption within Taliban ranks is 'huge'.

A quarter of Afghanistan's banks are state-owned, he said, along with the national bank which would typically be used to move large volumes of cash around.

'The Taliban control customs, they control taxation. They were in the extortion business a month ago [and] I don't think they're going to change,' he said.
A tuft of blue fibres found in the mouth of a murder victim helped lead police to her killer, a BBC documentary explains.

Vina Patel, 51, was found dead in her office in Cort and Co solicitors in Leicester, on January 15, 2009.

Her body was discovered by her husband and daughter at the bottom of the staircase, making it look like a fall. But police suspected foul play.

The police investigation was re-examined in BBC's Expert Witness , which focused on the work of Professor Roger Robson, a leading expert in the forensic examination of textile fibres and hairs, with over 40 years of experience.

Solicitor Vina Patel, 51, was found dead in her office in Leicester, on January 15, 2009. Her body was discovered by her husband, pictured, and daughter at the bottom of the staircase

Professor Jobson was able to analyse distinctive blue fibres found on Vina's body, eventually helping to tie her murder to her business partner John Cort, who had hired a hitman to carry out the killing so he could get a life assurance payout.

'It's amazing that a tiny thread of a few fibres can lead to all sorts of other evidence and may even crack the case for investigators,' Professor Jobson said.

In the case of Vina's murder, forensic investigators found tufts of blue fibre 'hanging out the side of her mouth' and 'sticking out between her fingers' of one hand.

Professor Jobson continued: 'The inference [was] something had either been used to contain her, maybe wrapped over her head.

'Or, if she had been murdered, and the body had been put in situ to make it look like an accident, maybe she had been wrapped up in something so the body could be moved.

'Every contact leaves a trace so what we're trying to do is look at items of clothing from the victim. Each fibre has usually had a bit of a journey from the manufacturing stage to where we find it, that can give it a little bit of individuality.'

Crucial clue: Blue fibre (seen in stock image) proved integral to solving the murder case

Firstly, Professor Jobson analysed the morphology, cross-sectional shape, colour and chemical composition of the two fibre samples and established they were of the same material.

'It was relatively easy to identify the fibres,' he continued. 'They were blue polypropylene,' a nylon-like material used to make hard-wearing rugs and carpets.

'However they were really unusual because they were exceptionally thin. I had never seen polypropylene fibres like this before.'

The next step was to eliminate the possibility the fibres had simply been transferred from something she came into contact with in her home or office. Once this was done, it made it far more likely the fibres were linked to her perpetrator.

Detailed examination revealed a 'fish-eye extrusion marker' along the length of the fibre. 'The marker is like a fingerprint, specific to their brand,' Professor Jobson explained. It meant he might be able to trace the material back to the manufacturer.

He started with a company based in Bradford.

'They got their technical team together and by the end of the first day, they knew they could eliminate themselves,' he said. Eventually they tracked the fibre to its source: a 'little factory' in India.

Expert witness: The police investigation was re-examined in BBC's Expert Witness, which focused on the work of Professor Roger Robson, pictured, a leading expert in the forensic examination of textile fibres and hairs, with over 40 years of experience

'They had a conversation with the managing director, and sure enough this guy had been using this very fine polypropylene fibre to make small rugs.'

They weren't exporting them to the UK or Europe but were exporting to one outlet in Jamaica.

At the same time, police had looked into the dealings of her business partner, John Cort, also a close friend of 30 years.

It emerged Cort lived a lavish lifestyle well beyond his means, keeping two west London flats as well as a Leicester penthouse, as well as paying for expensive London hotel stays.

Weeks before Mrs Patel's death he had persuaded her they should up their life assurance cover from 500,000 to 1.5 million, claiming he had a serious illness.

More than 650,000 had gone missing from the company's client account, which should have been paid to customers or mortgage lenders. He also took 1.1million out of the business, the BBC claimed.

DNA found on Vina's body was a close match to Brian Farrell, described by the BBC as a friend and sometimes lover of Cort.

Professor Jobson was able to analyse distinctive blue fibres found on Vina's body, eventually helping to tie her murder to her business partner John Cort, left, who had hired hitman Brian Farrell (right) to carry out the killing so he could get a life assurance payout

When questioned by police, Farrell made no secret he had been in the office, saying he and Cort had been having sex, so it was possible his DNA had somehow been transferred onto Vina shortly before she was killed.

This explanation meant his DNA alone would not be enough to tie him - or Cort - to the crime.

But investigations revealed Farrell had recently returned from Jamaica, the only country to which the Indian factory exported.

Police believed he bought the rug on his visit, brought it back to the UK, then wrapped Vina's body in the rug.

The court evidence suggested she had either fallen because she was being attacked or had been attacked, then her body arranged to make it look like an accident.

John Cort, of Leicester, and Brian Farrell, of west London, were found guilty of murdering Mrs Patel in May 2010 and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Setting a minimum term of 29 years for Cort and 28 years for Farrell, Mrs Justice Linda Dobbs told them the murder was 'premeditated, calculated and ruthless'.

During the trial at Nottingham Crown Court, the court heard that debt-ridden Cort hired Farrell to commit the murder in a 'contract killing' that would lead to a huge life assurance payout.

The case had been held together by unique blue fibres.

Professor Jobson added: 'Just a couple of tufts of fibres, leads you across the world to India, then back to the other side of the world to Jamaica, then all the way back to Leicester again.

'It just shows the powerful inferences fibre can bring to an investigation.'

Expert Witness is available to watch on iPlayer
Prince Charles and Camilla appeared in high spirits today as they hosted a reception for the Duchess of Cornwall's Reading Room.

The initiative was launched at the end of last year and promised to be a 'celebration of literature' and a hub for literary communities around the world.

Today the royal couple joined esteemed guests including Dame Judi Dench, Charles Dance, and Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox at a reception to celebrate the reading club.

It comes after it was announced Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall will take their first major overseas tour since the pandemic began with a trip to the Middle East.

Prince Charles and Camilla appeared in high spirits today as they hosted a reception for the Duchess of Cornwall's Reading Room

Today the royal couple joined esteemed guests including Dame Judi Dench, Charles Dance, and Radio 2 DJ Sara Cox at a reception to celebrate the reading club (pictured, the Duchess with Dame Judi)

The Duchess donned a navy gown with white detailing for the occasion, opting to wear her blonde locks in her usual plumped blow dry style.

Prince Charles and Camilla could both be seen chatting animatedly to Dame Judi while attending the event this afternoon.

Meanwhile the Duchess also posed for snaps with Dame Antonia Fraser and Dame Edna O'Brien at the reception earlier today.

Camilla was inspired to set up the free initiative at the end of last year as a result of the phenomenal response to two suggested reading lists she published during lockdown.

The Duchess donned a navy gown with white detailing for the occasion, opting to wear her blonde locks in her usual plumped blow dry style

The royal appeared in high spirits as she spoke to celebrities and public figures at the event, including radio DJ Sara Cox

Since joining the Royal Family with her wedding to Prince Charles in 2005, Camilla has made the issue of literacy  particularly among children  central to her work and is patron of seven charities including the National Literacy Trust and First Story.

Earlier today, Prince Charles celebrated the heroic efforts of the Samaritans as he told volunteers 'you are such an amazing credit to this country'.

Charles, patron of the Samaritans, visited the charity's Gloucester and District Branch to celebrate its 50th anniversary and hear about its recent work.

The heir to throne chatted with branch volunteers over a cup of tea, served in a Samaritans' mug and with - just as the prince likes it - a spoonful of local honey.

Meanwhile the Duchess also posed for snaps with Dame Antonia Fraser and Dame Edna O'Brien at the reception earlier today

Camilla could be seen chatting with attendees of the reception this afternoon including Charles Dance (pictured left) and William Shawcross (pictured right)

Charles was given a tour of the centre and met staff in its busy operations room.

As he unveiled a plaque and cut a celebratory cake, the prince spoke of his pride to be involved with such a 'remarkable organisation'.

He told the crowd of volunteers: 'You are such an amazing credit to this country in terms of what you do so many of you, all the time, for so long.

'You are, if I may say so, the absolute backbone of what is required and are here for people who otherwise wouldn't get the help they need.'

The prince added: 'All I can say, for what it's worth, is thank you for giving up your precious time and psychological contribution. I can imagine how emotionally wearing it must be.

'The fact that you do it is fantastic. Thank you, thank you. And I hope this anniversary will remind you just how important you all are.'

Prince Charles was in high spirits as he visited Samaritan's in Gloucester to meet with volunteers today

The Prince of Wales could be seen offering volunteers and staff members his namaste greeting as he arrived at the branch in Gloucester today

It wasn't long before Charles swiftly slipping back into old habits as he went onto greet further members of the organisation once inside.

He was introduced to Kathy Harding, 75, from Ledbury, Herefordshire, who has volunteered with the charity for more than 50 years.

She said afterwards: 'It's been a really tough year with Covid, people have been really struggling. 'The prince's visit has been a real lift, a real boost. 'He knows so much about how we operate.'

Charles was presented with an orange and yellow Samaritan Rose for his acclaimed garden at Highgrove at nearby Tetbury.

He could be seen offering volunteers and staff members his namaste greeting, as well as shaking hands during the visit this morning.

Samaritans provides emotional support to anyone in emotional distress, struggling to cope, or at risk of suicide.

Prince Charles helped to celebrate the branch's 50th Anniversary and hear about the recent work of their charity

At one stage the royal could be seen carrying a Samaritan's Rose during his visit to the charity (pictured left) and sliced into a cake (right)

It comes amid a busy week for the royal, who days ago attended The Prince's Trust Awards at St James' Palace, London.

Meanwhile he also joined the Queen and Prince William at a Windsor Castle reception where he met with business leaders, presidential envoys and tech entrepreneurs including Bill Gates and John Kerry.

Earlier this week, Clarence House said Prince Charles and Camilla, 74, have been asked by the British government to visit Jordan and Egypt and will tour the countries from November 16 to 19.

Tours are a significant part of the royal calendar and allow the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to use their legendary 'soft power', opening doors not normally available to diplomats and politicians.

The royal, who is patron of the Samaritans, opted for a smart navy pin striped suit for the outing today, which he paired with a pale blue tie

The royal appeared in good spirits as he heard about the recent work of the charity, sharing a laugh with volunteers and staff members

But the royal family have had their wings clipped as a result of the Covid pandemic and this will be the first royal overseas tour for almost two years.

The prince and duchess are both double jabbed and will likely have had their boosters by the time the trip takes place. As the Queen no longer travels abroad, any trip by Charles is akin to a state visit and treated with huge significance.

Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to the prince, said climate change would be one of the main themes of the visit, and other issues would include inter-faith dialogue, female empowerment and efforts to preserve cultural heritage.

Mr Fitzgerald said: 'The first royal tour in almost two years will come at a significant moment in the UK's relationship with both countries.

The royal could be seen joking with volunteers as he helped celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Gloucester branch

The Prince of Wales, who is royal patron of the charity, shared a laugh with staff and volunteers at the branch

'Their royal highnesses will first travel to Jordan, where they will celebrate both Jordan's own centenary and 100 years of the UK-Jordan bilateral relationship.

'Their royal highnesses' visit to Egypt comes as the UK holds the Cop presidency and Egypt has been nominated to assume the Cop27 presidency in 2022.

'In this decisive decade for climate action, the next 12 months is therefore expected to see a significant co-operation between the UK and Egypt. Indeed, both visits will have a major focus on addressing the climate crisis.'

The royal family have close ties with many of the ruling families of the Middle East including Jordan.

It comes after it was announced the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall will take their first major overseas tour since the pandemic began with a trip to the Middle East. (pictured in Jordan in 2013)

The Duchess of Cambridge 'loved' living in Jordan as a young child, according to her husband, the Duke of Cambridge, after her father Michael, then a British Airways manager, moved to the capital of Amman in 1984 for work and took his family.

Charles and Camilla will begin their four-day visit in Jordan, with the prince meeting humanitarian groups he supports as patron, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the International Rescue Committee, and he will highlight the nation's role in sheltering 650,000 registered Syrian refugees and more than two million Palestinians.

Camilla will learn about the work of Queen Rania, wife of the ruling King Abdullah II, in protecting vulnerable children and mothers, and will take part in a Women of the World event, promoting the empowerment of women.

Jordan's royal family has been rattled after two confidants of the king's half-brother Prince Hamzah were sentenced to 15 years over an alleged plot against the Western-allied monarchy.

Chris Fitzgerald, deputy private secretary to the prince, said climate change would be one of the main themes of the visit, and other issues would include inter-faith dialogue, female empowerment and efforts to preserve cultural heritage. Pictured, the royal couple in Egypt in 2006

Bassem Awadallah, who once served as a senior aide to the king, and Sharif Hassan bin Zaid, a member of the royal family, were alleged to have conspired with Prince Hamzah and were found guilty in July of sedition and incitement.

The status of Prince Hamzah, who was put under house arrest, is not known.

In Egypt, tour highlights include a UK-Egypt reception celebrating the bond between the two counties, which will be staged overlooking the pyramids at the Giza Plateau.

The royal couple will also tour the ancient city of Alexandria.

Charles and Camilla are due to visit Cairo's Grand Imam of Al-Azhar for discussions with the religious leader and young scholars about religious tolerance and the role of faith in stewarding the environment.

The prince and his wife last visited Egypt in 2006, while Charles toured Jordan in 2015 and Camilla visited in 2013.
A father and daughter who celebrated his release from prison with a viral TikTok dance have opened up about how they maintained their relationship during the 22 years he spent incarcerated.

Justine Tuckett, 28, from Utah, was five years old when her father Bill Lorance was sentenced to jail for murdering his stepfather in 1999. Lorance was released from California Medical Facility, a state prison, on October 5, BuzzFeed News reported.

Performing a routine with his dancer daughter was one of the first things he wanted to do when he was free, and the pair's playful video has been viewed more than 51 million times on TikTok and Instagram.

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Reunited: Justine Tuckett, 28, from Utah, celebrated her father Bill Lorance's release from prison earlier this month after he spent 22 years behind bars

Jumping into it: One of the first things Lorance wanted to do while out on parole was perform a TikTok dance with his daughter, who is a dance fitness instructor

'My Dad has been in prison for 22 years. I got to pick him up this week,' she captioned the clip, which shows her dancing solo before her father jumps in and matches her choreographed moves.

Tuckett, who is a dance fitness instructor, told BuzzFeed News that she chose to teach her dad Patrice Rushen's 'Forget Me Nots' dance because the tempo was slow and the moves weren't overly complicated.

'Words can not express the emotions and feelings Ive had this week. Picking up my Father from prison after 22 years was amazing,' she captioned the video on Instagram.

'When I was younger every time I blew out my birthday candles. I would wish that he would get out of prisonuntil I was old enough to realize that he wasnt going to be wished back to me.'

Tuckett knew some people would take issue with seeing her father dancing after the crime he had committed, and she ended her post with a message about how her father used his time in prison to reform.

Going viral: Their video has been viewed more than 51 million times on TikTok and Instagram

Reformed: Tuckett explained in the caption that 'some people deserve to re-enter society,' saying her father 'is unrecognizable from the person he use to be before prison'

'My Dad put in the work every day, he is unrecognizable from the person he use to be before prison,' she explained.

'Some resilient people CAN be reformed. Some people DESERVE to re-enter society again. Some WILL embrace their children, grandchildren, and family [once] again. Someone like my Dad.'

There were a number of supportive comments from people who were happy to see the family reunited, but others were outraged by the celebration of his release considering the severity of his crimes.'

Some even accused Tuckett of making her dad dance in the video to get more social media followers, which she denied.

She explained in the comments that her father was the one who asked if they could make a TikTok together because he never got to see her dance in any of her performances in middle school, high school, or college.

'There are people who think I should have stayed in prison for the rest of my life,' Lorance told BuzzFeed News. 'Theyre just inflamed that he gets to get out and dance with his daughter, and his victims daughter will never dance with him.'

Crime: Lorance (pictured with his daughter) was sentenced to jail for first-degree homicide after murdering his stepfather in 1999

Hard to handle: Tuckett was only five years old when her father went to prison, and he never got to see any of her dance performances when she was growing up

Grandchildren: Lorance has been spending quality time with his daughter's two children following his release

After their video went viral, Tuckett and Lorance shared their story during a candid Instagram Live. They discussed his crime as well as how he maintained a relationship with her and her brother, Jonathan, while he was in prison.

Lorance explained that he and Tuckett's mother, who is now his ex-wife, had been separated for 18 months, and he was in the grip of alcoholism and drug addiction when he murdered his stepfather in 1999.

'I let anger consume me. I was filled with rage, and I acted out in violence,' he said.

The father broke down in tears as he recalled how his ex-wife wrote him a letter when he first went to jail saying he would never speak to their children again. However, she came to realize that he would always be an important part of their kids' lives.

Lorance maintained his relationship with his children through letters, phone calls, and their occasional visits, which he called 'fantastic.'

He said he made it a point to always be positive when he was speaking with his daughter, and they bonded over television shows, one of the only things they both had access to.

Making memories: Tuckett has been chronicling her father's first on Instagram, including his first selfie (pictured)

Strong bond: After their video went viral, Tuckett and Lorance shared their story during an Instagram Live about how they maintained their relationship while he was in jail

Tuckett, who has two children of her own, also made sure that her kids regularly spoke to their grandfather on the phone during his final years of incarceration.

While speaking of his reform, Lorance said the greatest opportunity he had in prison was to participate in victim awareness seminars where he met with victims of violent crimes.

He recalled speaking to a woman who was still heartbroken over her father's murder 25 years later, and the impact that conversation had on him.

'It just proved to me how much damage I had done and that no matter what I do in terms of reform, no matter how much I strive to be a better person, that someone out there is always going to be without a loved one, and I will never fully understand the extent of their pain and sorrow,' he shared.

Tuckett also cried during the Instagram Live, admitting it was difficult for them to talk about these things on social media.

'It is hard talking about these things because I want to protect you and I love you,' she told her dad.

'People are never fully going to understand our story. No matter how much we share. No matter how much we explain. Nobody fully understands it.'
A 29-year-old woman has been left with horrific third-degree burns all over her breasts after she fainted into a pain of boiling chicken, which melted the skin on her chest and arms.

Abbie Reynolds nearly died in the agonizing accident on October 12, 2020, which occurred after she suddenly blacked out while chatting with her housemate - who actually helped to save her life by dragging her away from the searing hot pan, before calling an ambulance to their home.

Despite her roommate's quick thinking, Abbie sustained 'excruciating' injuries that required three rounds of painful surgery and saw her forced to spend 20 days in the hospital while doctors attempted to repair the damage from her burns.

And even after all of the operations, she has been left with scars across her chest and arms that have left her struggling with her self confidence.

Injury: Abbie Reynolds, from California, was left with agonizing burns across her chest after she fainted into a pan of boiling chicken, which melted the skin on her breasts

Scars: The 29-year-old suffered third-degree burns on her boobs when she suddenly blacked out in her kitchen while her housemate was preparing chicken for dinner

Abbie is also struggling to come to terms with the trauma of her accident, which she described as 'life-altering', admitting that she doesn't think she will 'ever be the same again' - either physically or mentally.

'It was a life altering experience,' the school psychologist said. 'I'll never be the same person I was physically or mentally prior to the accident. That's a really difficult thing to accept.'

Speaking about the moments before her accident, Abbie recalled chatting to her roommate, events planner Margaret Williams, 30, before realizing that she was struggling to keep up with the conversation.

Her vision went blurry, and she started to see 'black spots'.

Unable to blink them away, she figured she would go and lie down.

'Margaret told me to go and sit down,' Abbie explained.

'The last thing I remember is walking towards the living room, but apparently, I stopped and turned to look back at the microwave that was above the stove. I blacked out and collapsed into the cooking food.'

When Abbie woke up two minutes later, she couldn't bear the agony of her burns, describing it as the most 'painful' and 'excruciating' thing she has ever experienced.

Recovery: The school psychologist was rushed to hospital after the accident and had to undergo three different surgeries in an attempt to repair the damage caused by her burns

Lengthy: She spent a total of 20 days in the hospital, during which time doctors attempted to fix the appearance of her skin with an innovative procedure called RECELL, which failed

Fueled by adrenaline, she leaped up and ran out of the room screaming in agony.

'It was excruciating,' she recalled. 'I thought I was going to die. I've never experienced anything so painful and I honestly don't think I ever will again. Not even childbirth will be as painful.'

Abbie's housemates chased after her to try and remove her bra and wet rags - while waiting for the EMTs to arrive. She was then rushed to MedStar Washington Hospital, where she underwent three surgeries.

Initially, doctors tried to correct the damage of the burns with an innovative procedure known as RECELL surgery, in which a small skin graft is placed into a buffering solution that allows it to then be sprayed back onto the patient.

The technique involves putting a sample of a burn victim's skin into a suspension that can then be applied onto the body.

However, Abbie's burns were so severe that the procedure failed - leaving her forced to endure two further operations in which doctors performed traditional skin grafts.

'The first thing I felt when I saw my burns was shock, I'd never seen my skin look that way,' she recalled.

'Excruciating': Speaking about the 'life-altering' accident, Abbie recalled screaming in agony when she woke up

Learning: Abbie says the experience has left her struggling with her self confidence - but it has also helped her to 'be kinder to herself'

'It was grey. Then I felt fear, I was completely freaked and scared of the unknown. But once I'd had time to process what had happened, I felt dread. Once I was over the initial shock, I realized that I'd be in for a long ride.

'Waking up after each surgery was one of the most difficult parts. It was so traumatic.'

After 20 days in hospital, Abbie was able to head home where she is learning to accept her burns and embrace her new body image.

Abbie was discharged and able to go home on November 1, 2020.

She is now coming to terms with her scars.

'The severity of the accident has been an incredibly difficult thing to accept,' she said. 'You basically have to mourn your old body and old life while trying to accept and appreciate your new self and life.

'Now that I have all these massive scars on my body, it's made me realize how much time I wasted worrying about small stupid imperfections that nobody else would have noticed.

'But it's forced me to be kinder to myself and to appreciate my body for all the wonderful things it's done for me.'
Prince Albert has said Princess Charlene will be back in Monaco 'very shortly' and anticipates doctors in South Africa will clear his wife for travel within days.

The 63-year-old, who shares six-year-old twins Jacques and Gabriella with the former Olympian, told People that current plans involve Charlene returning to the principality within weeks.

She has been in her native South Africa for much of this year after contracting a 'serious sinus infection' which made her unable to travel and forced her to miss key events including her 10-year wedding anniversary and her children's first day of school.

But Albert insisted that his wife will return home 'way before [Monaco's National Day] on November 19', adding 'she's in good form and much better spirits'.

He even hopes Charlene, 43, will be able to join him earlier on a planned November 13 visit to Dubai's World Expo, an international cultural exhibition, but admitted: 'We'll make that decision at the last minute.'

Prince Albert said Charlene (pictured together) will be back in Monaco 'very shortly' and anticipates doctors in South Africa will clear his wife for travel within days

On October 8, Zimbabwean-born Charlene underwent a final operation to deal with an ear, nose and throat infection she contracted in May - with a palace source telling AFP that the procedure 'went very well'.

But the royal's absence from the principality has sparked rumours of a rift between Charlene and Albert - which the pair have recently denied.

Albert told the publication that all the family miss her and 'obviously she misses the children'.

The royal noted that a sign-off from her medical team is all that is needed to allow her to return to the palace she shares with her children and husband.

On Tuesday, Charlene shared an update of her own, taking to her social media account to reveal her heartbreak following her beloved pet dog's death after being run over.

Princess Charlene today shared her heartbreak online following her beloved pet dog's death after being run over (pictured together)

The former Olympian, 43, who has been living in her home country of South Africa for much of this year, took to Instagram to share a photo snuggling up with her pooch Angel

She took to Instagram today to share a photo snuggling up with her pooch Angel, which was taken last Christmas in Monaco.

The mother-of-two posted: 'My little Angel died last night, she was run over. I will miss you so much, Rest In Peace.'

It comes after she sparked concern among fans following her latest appearance online, with some saying she appeared 'frail'.

It is unknown if Princess Charlene's pooch had been staying with her in South Africa or whether the pet had remained with Prince Albert in Monaco.

It comes weeks after the mother-of-two sparked concern among fans following her latest appearance online (pictured)

On her most recent public appearance online, the royal wore a smattering of makeup and styled her fringe to the side.

And yet her appearance in the social media post concerned fans, with one writing: 'Get well soon, you look so frail, take care, hope you get back to Monaco to your lovely family.'

Last week Princess Charlene said she 'can't wait to get home to her children' but made no reference to her husband Albert in an interview given in South Africa.

Charlene, who wed Prince Albert II in 2011, has been living in her home country of South Africa for much of this year, and the extended stay has stoked speculation that the royal couple may be headed for divorce.

Earlier this month Prince Albert insisted that his wife (pictured with their children) is likely to return to Monaco by the end of the month

However they have denied rumours of a rift and said Charlene's absence from the principality is due to her contracting the 'serious sinus infection'.

In an interview which took place earlier this month and was shared on Charlene's Instagram page, the royal said she 'misses her children, Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, terribly', adding: 'Any mother out there who has been separated from her children for months would feel the same way I feel.'

In the clip, she said: 'I came to South Africa to oversee some foundation projects. I was unwell at the time, unknowingly, with an infection. It was addressed immediately. Unfortunately, it grounded me for some months in South Africa.

'I had my one procedure - it was very successful. I'm well, I'm feeling much stronger. I have one more procedure. Then I cannot wait to get home to my children, who I miss terribly.

It comes amid reports that Prince Albert (pictured) 'applied for sovereign immunity' in his court battle to fight claims he fathered a third love child before marrying Charlene

Elsewhere in the interview she touched on community in South Africa, saying she would like to impart 'unity and strength.'

She said: 'Obviously I would never like to touch on anything politically. But what can be done, is people need to set their differences aside and think of the generations to come and less of themselves.

'Too much emphasis is put on ourselves and less on the future generations to come. What do they have to look back on? Who is their guide? That needs to be installed.'

Speaking about the anti-poaching work she has been undertaking while in South Africa this year, she said: 'I am determined to come back and continue the work I set out to do as I have done in many countries over Africa and in South Africa.

Zimbabwean-born Charlene, 43, who wed Prince Albert II in 2011, has been living in her home country of South Africa for much of this year, and the extended stay has stoked speculation that the royal couple (pictured) may be headed for divorce

'Conservation, preservation, restoration and education. That is what my foundation stands for. We save lives.'

How Charlene and Albert made solo outings in South Africa and Monaco during nine 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

September 1 - Charlene is admitted under an alias to the Netcare Alberlito Hospital after suddenly 'collapsing' September 2 - She is discharged, with a statement from the Palais Princier reading: 'Her Highness is closely monitored by Her medical team who said that Her condition was not worrying' September 23 - Prince Albert attends the 2021 Monte Carlo Gala for Planetary Health September 29 - Prince Albert is joined on the red carpet by actress Sharon Stone for a first look at the eagerly anticipated James Bond release September 30 - Charlene releases a stylish video promoting her anti-poaching campaign from her South African bolthole October 3 - Princess Charlene shares a photograph of herself smiling in front of a bible in her first snap since being discharged from hospital following her health scare October 5 - Prince Albert attends Sportel Awards Ceremony in Monte Carlo with nephew Louis Ducruet October 6 - Albert tells RMC radio Charlene is 'ready to come home' October 8 - Princess undergoes surgery in South Africa Advertisement

The release of the interview came days after a palace source said her final operation to deal with an ear, nose and throat infection she contracted in May 'went very well'.

The operation in South Africa was performed under general anaesthetic, and 'is the last she had to undergo following her ENT infection. She will be under observation for 48 hours,' the source told French news agency AFP.

It comes amid reports that Albert 'applied for sovereign immunity' in his court battle to fight claims he fathered a third love child before marrying Charlene.

The 63-year-old prince, who already supports two illegitimate children, is alleged to have had 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 the former Olympic swimmer in 2000.

It was reported last year that the case would go to court in Milan in February, however according to Town&Country, the prince's lawyers pleaded sovereign immunity and the case has been delayed.

Lawyer Erich Grimaldi, who is acting on behalf of the woman, said he hopes the judge will reject Albert's plea and he is waiting for the case to come back to court, which he believes will happen 'imminently'.

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 16, 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.'

Last December, 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.

'This was before Charlene and Albert were an item, but the latest case covers a time when she was already in love with him,' a source who works closely with the Monaco Royal household revealed at the time.

'Charlene has had a terrible year, with one family crisis after another including Albert going down with coronavirus, and now she's gearing herself up for this hell.'

The princess, whose maiden name was Charlene Wittstock, was an Olympic swimmer for South Africa when she first met Albert at a Monaco aquatic competition in 2000.

They began dating soon afterwards, before Charlene married into the House of Grimaldi at a star-studded wedding in July 2011.

Their twins  daughter Gabriella and son Jacques  were born three years later and are seen as the family's official heirs.

By this time, Charlene had come to terms with Albert's hard fought legal battles with women who eventually won financial settlements over children they had with Albert  even though he originally denied their claims.

In May 2005, just before he was enthroned as Prince of Monaco, Albert confirmed he was the biological father of Alexandre, whose mother was Nicole Coste, a former Air France flight attendant from Togo.

A DNA test in May 2006 also confirmed Albert was the father of Jazmine Grace, the result of an affair with Tamara Rotolo, an American estate agent he met while she was on holiday in the South of France.

Jazmine was born in the 1990s and Alexandre in 2003. The Brazilian woman says she travelled around the world with the Prince in the 2000s.

Lawyer Grimaldi said he had filed papers with specific details of his client's love affair with Albert, including trips to Brazil, the USA, France and Russia.

While in Moscow, the lovers are even said to have had a meeting with Russian president Vladimir Putin, who gave the Brazilian 'a warm hug', according to court papers.

Albert's lawyer, Thierry Lacoste, has described the allegations as a 'a hoax', saying: 'There are no intimate photos, no tangible facts surrounding a possible relationship.'

Neither Albert's daughter Jazmin Grace Grimaldi, now 28, nor his son, Alexandre Grimaldi-Coste, 17, can claim the throne of Monaco, according to negotiated financial agreements.

The line of succession instead favours Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, six, and who frequently appear in their parents' social media posts.
A mother and daughter who were both diagnosed with breast cancer within months of each other battled the disease together  and are now both gratefully in remission.

Mother Terry Wulf, 65, was diagnosed first in 2018, after doctors found that she had a rare form of breast cancer.

While caring for her mother through her treatment in their, Blair, Nebraska home, daughter Amanda Nelson, 43, went for a routine MRI and discovered that she, too, had breast cancer and would have to fight it alongside her mom.

A mother and daughter who were both diagnosed with breast cancer within months of each other battled the disease together  and are now both gratefully in remission

Amanda Nelson, 43, tested positive for a BRCA2 mutation in 2017, significantly increasing her chances of getting breast cancer

Amanda wasn't all that surprised to get breast cancer given an extensive family history, so she was vigilant about getting annual mammograms and breast MRIs

'I knew without a doubt, just from that breast cancer history, that the risk was very high for me,' she told KETV .

'There really never was a question of if I would get breast cancer, it was just always a matter of when is it going to happen.'

In 2017, she tested positive for a BRCA2 mutation, which meant she had about a 69 per cent chance of developing breast cancer in her lifetime.

In a bid to cut down those odds, Amanda planned to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy, removing her breasts and getting implants to reduce the amount of breast tissue that could become cancerous.

Angelina Jolie famously underwent the surgery in 2013.

She had planned to get a preventative double mastectomy when her mother, Terry Wulf, 65, was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer in 2018

Amanda put her own mastectomy plans on hold to care for her mother during treatment, which included a mastectomy and chemotherapy

But after a routine MRI found a lump in her breast in 2019, Amanda was also diagnosed with breast cancer. She, too, underwent a double mastectomy and reconstruction

But she was forced to put those plans on hold when, in 2018, her mother got the 'scary' diagnosis of triple-negative breast cancer, which is difficult to treat. She later learned that she also had the mutation.

Terry was the one who was soon getting a double mastectomy and breast reconstruction, which she followed up with chemotherapy and other medications.

'That was probably so hard on my body,' Terry said. 'That is when I truly thought that I probably was not going to live any longer, that that was probably going to kill me.'

Amanda was taking care of her mother eight months later in 2019 when she went for a routine MRI  and doctors found a lump. A biopsy revealed it was cancer.

Terry has gone through several rounds of treatment, and things took a dramatic turn with Terry got a second diagnosis, this time with cancer in her fallopian tubes

'I just want to think that, I made it through it, and now I'm just going to live my life,' Terry (left) said

Warning: Both Nebraska women are now in remission and have urged others to monitor their breast health

'I just blanked out,' Amanda told the Methodist Health System upon hearing her diagnosis. 'The whole world just stopped for a minute.'

Now Amanda's hand was forced, and she finally underwent the mastectomy and reconstructive surgery she'd planned earlier.

Amanda and Terry hit another dramatic turn with Terry got a second diagnosis, this time with cancer in her fallopian tubes.

But together, the pair have fought and are now both in remission, and have urged other women to monitor their breast health.

'I just want to think that, I made it through it, and now I'm just going to live my life,' Terry said.
A cheese advent calendar that sparked a global frenzy when it was first launched six years ago is back for 2021 with a brand new flavour.

The So Wrong It's Nom Christmas countdown features bits of cheese behind each door, including spicy Mexicana, Ilchester mature Cheddar and Applewood Vintage PDO. This year also includes Ilchester Cheddar with apple, onion ands age for the first time.

The 8 calendar will be available from Sainsbury's, Lidl, Waitrose, Morrisons, Ocado, Booths, and Amazon UK from early November.

A cheese advent calendar that sparked a global frenzy when it was first launched five years ago is back for 2021 with a brand new flavour.

The calendar contains 24 individually wrapped portions of delicious cheese, encased in a fully recyclable, fridge-door-friendly cardboard calendar.

The Cheese Calendar has proven to be a must have for the holiday season.

Since its debut Christmas launch in 2016, more than 700,000 Cheese Advent Calendars have been sold in 16 countries, and its become one of Amazon's top 10 best selling Christmas calendars.

Writing on Instagram ahead of the launch today, Annem wrote: 'So here it is! The Cheese Advent Calendar is out from November in 16 different countries!

'It feels strange typing that - especially when I created the idea as a handmade cardboard prototype sat in my pyjamas in 2015! I still pinch myself.

What cheeses are in the calendar for 2021? *NEW FOR 2021* Ilchester Cheddar with Apple, Onion and Sage  A versatile and uniquely flavored British Cheddar, carefully blended for a well-rounded deliciously sweet Apple flavor, with scrumptious savory notes from the onion and aromatic sage. Pairs perfectly with turkey and cranberry sauce. Applewood  A real English treasure, Applewood is made in the West Country from British cheddar and has a delicate smoky flavor and a lovely smooth texture, with a sprinkling of paprika for good measure. Applewood Vintage PDO Aged for 12 months  This delicious cheese is made from traditional hand-turned British Farmhouse Cheddar. It has a delicate smoky flavor with an exquisitely smooth, rich creaminess that melts in the mouth. Creamy yellow in color, with a sprinkling of paprika. Ilchester Mature Cheddar  Ilchesters Cheddar is made in the West Country, close to where Cheddar originated in the Mendip Hills. Take a bite and let the creaminess melt into your mouth, with its earthy tangy notes. Ilchester Vintage PDO Cheddar  Carefully matured, this cheddar is made in the West Country near the Mendip Hills. With a drier texture to standard cheddar due to the maturing process, you may be lucky to discover some calcium crystals which add crunch to the texture. Ilchester Double Gloucester  This is a hard cheese with a savory, mellow flavor. You may know it as the famous cheese that is rolled down Coopers Hill annually in May for the UKs most extreme cheese rolling race! Ilchester Red Leicester  Smooth and nutty! Add a splash of color to your cheese board with this traditional English cheese, based on a classic Cheddar recipe. Ilchester Aged Red Leicester  This traditional English cheese has been carefully matured for a minimum of 9 months giving it a distinguishable smooth, tangy and nutty taste. Mexicana  This cheese combines a fiery mix of bell, jalapeno and chilli peppers, carefully blended with British Cheddar and a secret mix of Mexican spices. Advertisement

'It has come a long, long way since and I couldn't be more thankful for this wonderful little cheesy community for all of the support.

'The new version will be jam packed with nine different scrumptious cheeses with something for everyone to fall in love with.'

The cheese advent calendar was born when Annem posted a blog in 2016 showing how anyone can make one at home.

After trending on Facebook for more than two days and garnering celebrity support from the likes of Emma Bunton and Zooey Deschanel, over 11,000 people signed up to give the campaign their support in four days alone.

It was there that the trend of the Cheese Calendar was born, taking her idea from a small prototype and turning it into a global sensation that's melted everyone's hearts.

She officially launched the calendar five years ago and ASDA revealed that it was a bestseller year.
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Residents in Santa Barbara were told to shelter-in-place due to potential 'life-threatening flooding' after heavy rains battered areas already ravaged by wildfires.

Alisal Fire broke out in the California county on October 11 and tore through 17,000 acres of land before it was almost completely extinguished, at 97 per cent contained, on Sunday. The burn scar is more susceptible to flash floods and mudslides after heavy rain and as storms hit the West Coast on the weekend, residents were ordered to evacuate.

By 11:30AM Monday, the evacuation order was changed to a shelter-in-place, warning of 'life-threatening flooding and debris'. Residents were instructed to stay inside and 'go to the innermost room in their home or to higher ground such as a second floor.' The shelter-in-place order has since been dropped.

Burn scars block the ground from absorbing water leading to an increased potential for flooding. As the water levels rise, it can create erosion and collect large amounts of ash, sand, silt, rocks, and burned vegetation.

The strength of the rushing waters along with the debris that it picks up can cause major destruction to the landscape and the infrastructure.

Parts of the Alisal Fire burn area were issued to evacuate the area by noon on Sunday. The Santa Barbara County Search & Rescue Team spent Sunday afternoon going door to door personally urging residents to leave.

Nearly 300 residences in Refugio Canyon and other parts of the Gaviota coast impacted by the wildfire were impacted by the evacuation order. Santa Barbara City Fire Department inspected the area on Monday checking for signs of post-fire flooding issues but Battalion Chief Jim McCoy told NoozHawk that no damage was reported. Firefighters did find one man who needed to be rescued from the flood waters in Mission Creek.

The unidentified man was underneath the roadway when the water rose and trapped him, he told firefighters. He was forced to cling onto vines and roots until he could be saved.

'He was holding onto that vine cluster for an hour is what he said, yelling for help and finally somebody heard him,' McCoy said.

The man was rescued when firefighters used a rope system to get him a flotation device. 'He said he wasnt hurt but he was very cold and very tired,' McCoy explained.
Experts warn that the UK faces an uncertain winter, with Covid and flu circulating.

After lockdowns and mask-wearing, which cut infection rates, we may also be more susceptible to cold viruses, with people complaining of super-colds.

The outbreak is being blamed by some on the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), which typically causes a runny nose, cough and sore throat  and is usually a common cause of winter illness in the under-twos.

So will over-the-counter cold and flu remedies help? Angela Epstein asked Professor Simon Lloyd, a consultant ear, nose and throat surgeon at Manchester Royal Infirmary, to assess them.

Kaloba Pelargonium Cough & Cold Relief Oral Drops

Kaloba Pelargonium Cough & Cold Relief Oral Drops

20ml, 6.99, kaloba.co.uk

Claim: A herbal medicinal product which, the manufacturer claims, can relieve the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections such as common cold, sore throats and coughs. Take at the first sign of a cold.

Suitable for children over six, the oral drops can be taken directly from a spoon or mixed with water.

Expert verdict: Pelargonium is a member of the geranium family and has a long-standing use in traditional medicine for treating colds and flu.

Anecdotally, some people have said they find relief from its use but there is very limited evidence that it is effective. It is safe to take for all ages and if you want to avoid taking other forms of medicine, then there is no harm in trying it.

3/10

Otrivine Extra Dual Relief

10ml, 7.99, boots.com

Otrivine Extra Dual Relief

Claim: A nasal spray which, claims the maker, helps unblock your nose six times faster than decongestant pills. It contains xylometa- zoline hydrochloride, which has a decongestant effect, and ipratropium bromide, which reduces nasal mucus secretion.

To use, hold one nostril closed and insert spray into the other. Tilt head slightly forward and squirt  inhaling at the same time. Repeat on the other side.

Expert verdict: This has two active ingredients  ipratropium bromide, which relaxes the muscles that line the airways within the lung, therefore making it easier to breathe, and xylometazoline hydrochloride, a decongestant that shrinks the lining of the nose, also making breathing easier.

Both drugs have been shown to be effective in improving cold symptoms but taking decongestants for more than five days is not recommended because they can worsen swelling in the nose if taken for too long, potentially making symptoms worse in the long run.

8/10

ColdZyme Mouth Spray

ColdZyme Mouth Spray

20ml, 17.50, boots.com

Claim: This is said to work against the cold virus itself  rather than just treat symptoms.

Once sprayed in the throat, the manufacturer says it forms a protective barrier that traps the virus in the throat and stops it infecting cells; the body then gets rid of the virus naturally.

It also claims that ColdZyme can shorten cold duration if used at the first sign of symptoms. To use, spray into the throat  one dose every second hour up to six times daily during the time you are exposed to the cold virus or until symptoms decline.

Expert verdict: The main ingredients of ColdZyme include glycerol, a colourless and odourless thick liquid that traps viruses in the throat. It also contains trypsin, an enzyme that, it is also claimed, inhibits the viruss ability to bond with and infect healthy cells.

But the evidence is mixed. Some studies show it may offer little protection  but a paper earlier this year in the European Journal of Sport Science suggested it could shorten cold duration by up to a third.

Additionally, it is only a treatment for the mouth and it does not stop viruses entering through the nose.

7/10

Strepsils Soothing Throat Spray

Strepsils Soothing Throat Spray

20ml, 6.99, boots.com

Claim: A throat spray containing a substance called Polysac-Active and honey, which, says the manufacturer, can help soothe a sore throat and cough.

Spray directly to the back of the throat every two to three hours or when needed. Can be used in children over three.

Expert verdict: Honey is a safe, natural remedy for soothing a sore throat and improving coughing.

A review of the best-quality studies on the effectiveness of honey has shown that it is helpful in relieving coughing and reducing the duration of the cough. It might also soothe the throat because of its thick, sticky consistency, although the evidence for this is less clear.

Polysac-Active is said to create a protective layer at the back of the throat that soothes it and eases coughing. But it is a fairly new product and there is not yet any evidence that it is effective in helping with a cough or soothing the throat.

6/10

Nasal Guard Cold & Flu Block Topical Gel

Nasal Guard Cold & Flu Block Topical Gel

3g, 11.99, nasalguard.co.uk

Claim: A thick gel said to help reduce the likelihood of getting sick from colds and flu by blocking out airborne viruses, says the manufacturer.

It advises that it is best used in situations where you may be exposed to contaminated air  such as crowded places, where viruses may easily spread. Reapply a thin layer around nose every four to six hours.

Expert verdict: This is a drug-free gel that does not appear to have any side-effects and which aims to immobilise airborne viruses so they do not get inhaled into the lungs.

But I am not aware of any good evidence that it actually reduces the risk of a cold. That said, it wont do any harm  although it is pricey.

5/10

Life Healthcare Steam Inhaler Cup

Life Healthcare Steam Inhaler Cup

4.99, lifehealthcare online.com

Claim: This steam inhaler  in the form of a cup with a face mask attached to it  is said to help clear the airways because its warming and moisturising effects help loosen mucus and catarrh, as well as relieve the symptoms of coughs, colds, flu and blocked sinuses.

Expert verdict: This is a device that helps people with colds use inhalation more effectively.

It improves the amount of inhaled steam and other decongestants taken in when compared with putting your head over a bowl with a towel on your head, in the old-fashioned way.

It can be used with any inhaled decongestants.

For example, olbas oil and menthol can be helpful.

8/10

Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief Capsules

16 capsules, 4.75, boots.com

Claim: A combination pack with two types of capsules to deal with symptoms of flu during the day and at night.

Claims to offer relief from headaches, blocked nose, body aches and sore throat.

Expert verdict: This is a well-established product containing medications that are effective at reducing cold symptoms.

Both day and night capsules contain paracetamol, a painkiller, and phenylephrine, a decongestant. These will work to reduce nasal blockage, headache and fever associated with colds and there is good evidence for their effectiveness.

The day capsules also contain caffeine, which acts as a stimulant to relieve fatigue and drowsiness and speed up the absorption of other medications  helping them act more quickly.

Take two capsules every four to six hours.

9//10

Lemsip Max Day & Night Cold & Flu Relief Capsules

Holland & Barrett Echinacea Cold & Flu capsules

Holland & Barrett Echinacea Cold & Flu capsules

30 capsules, 9.49, hollandandbarrett.com

Claim: A traditional herbal remedy used for colds, which, it is claimed, may boost the activity of infection-fighting immune cells, known as natural killer cells.

Expert verdict: There was a very well-conducted review by the Cochrane organisation  which vets the evidence for different drugs  that found no benefit from using echinacea to treat colds compared to a placebo (dummy) tablet.

It is safe, though, and it can be taken in conjunction with paracetamol and other cold medications, so may be worth a try.

3/10
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the U.S. saw a significant increase in the number of people requiring a liver transplant for a disease caused by heavy drinking.

Researchers at the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, analyzed a national waitlist for liver transplants and numbers of transplants from deceased donors that included over 80,000 patients over five years.

From June 2020 to January 2021, the numbers of waitlist registrations and deceased donor transplants for patients suffering from an alcohol-related disease both shot up by about 60 percent compared to trends from before the pandemic.

At the same time, commercial alcohol sales increased sharply, according to data from the U.S. Census.

The findings could be tied to increasing alcohol use during the pandemic - though this study does not show an exact causation - the researchers say.

During the pandemic, Americans consumed more alcohol - potentially leading to an increase in a severe liver disease, a new study from the University of Michigan found

New waiting list registrations and deceased donor transplants for patients with alcoholic hepatitis, a condition caused by heavy drinking, rose more than 50% during the pandemic

Americans have been drinking more alcohol during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Multiple studies have picked up the trend, including one survey from the nonprofit RTI International that found liquor sales went up in spring 2020 - and stayed up through the rest of the year.

Researchers say the increase could be tied to wide-scale stress and anxiety caused by Covid, following past drinking increases during other natural disasters.

In addition to alcohol sales, the number of people who reported binge drinking also increased in 2020, according to the RTI International survey.

For many people, binge drinking can lead to alcoholic hepatitis - a condition in which the liver becomes inflamed.

People with this condition have a high risk of serious liver damage, which can potentially be fatal.

A new study, published Tuesday in JAMA Network Open, from researchers at the University of Michigan examined a rise in alcoholic hepatitis during the pandemic.

The researchers used a national, anonymous registry of organ transplants - including patients on the waiting list for a liver transplant and liver donations from donors who died suddenly.

They examined records from January 2016 to January 2021, focusing on liver transplants in which the person requesting the transplant had alcoholic hepatitis or another disease related to heavy drinking.

Using statistical modeling, the researchers compared liver transplant numbers during the pandemic to trends from the previous four years.

In total, the analysis included over 50,000 waiting list registrations and over 30,000 donations from deceased donors.

Transplants for patients who had suffered from heavy drinking increased sharply during the pandemic, the analysis showed.

Between March 2020 and January 2021, 2.4 percent of liver waitlist registrants had alcoholic hepatitis - compared to 1.4 percent in a similar period prior to the pandemic.

Among deceased donor transplants, 3.0 percent of patients receiving these donated livers had alcoholic hepatitis during the pandemic - up from 1.6 percent before Covid.

The researchers found a correlation between increased patients requiring a liver transplant due to alcoholic hepatitis and increased commercial alcohol sales in the U.S.

While the researchers saw decreases in both metrics during spring 2020 - as the U.S. healthcare system focused on Covid patients - transplant numbers shot up through the rest of the year.

From June 2020 to January 2021, the researchers found, both waiting list registrations and transplants from deceased donors increased by about 60 percent, compared to pre-Covid trends.

The researchers also examined commercial alcohol sales in the U.S. from 2016 to 2021, using retail trade data from the U.S. Census.

Alcohol sales increased during Covid - and the researchers found a statistical correlation between increasing sales and increasing numbers of patients who needed a liver transplant.

'While we cannot confirm causality, this disproportionate increase in association with increasing alcohol sales may indicate a relationship with known increases in alcohol misuse during COVID-19,' researchers wrote.

The researchers noted that a small fraction of patients with severe alcoholic hepatitis, under 6 percent, actually seek a liver transplant.

As a result, the numbers in this study likely reflect a fraction of the increase in heavy drinking - and its health impacts - during the Covid pandemic.

The researchers wrote that their study 'highlights the need for public health interventions around excessive alcohol consumption.'
Moderna announced Tuesday morning that the U.S. based biotechnical company has reached a deal to ship around 110 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Africa.

Africa is currently the world's least vaccinated continent, with only 8.4 percent of residents having received at least one shot of a Covid vaccine, and 5.5 percent fully vaccinated.

Countries in the continent have largely relied on donations from countries outside of Africa, as they were behind the U.S. and European countries in the line to get vaccines.

In order for this deal to go through, the U.S. allowed the African Union to jump ahead in line, deferring 33 million doses that were intended to be purchased by America between December and February.

Moderna announced of Tuesday that it had reached a deal with the African Union to ship 110 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to the continent by the end of quarter 2 of 2022. It is the first major deal between the continent and the company. Pictured: A man receives a COVID-19 vaccine in Lagos, Nigeria

In order to deliver the vaccine to Africa, the United States deferred a shipment of 33 million doses of the Moderna jab (pictured)

'It is a great day for us,' the African Union special envoy on COVID-19, Strive Masiyiwa, told reporters, after African nations faced months of frustration over rich countries' vaccine hoarding and delayed deliveries of doses.

Moderna, which is based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, said the deal was done using its 'lowest tiered prices'.

'We believe our vaccine can play an important role in addressing the needs of low-income countries given its combination of high Phase 3 efficacy against COVID-19, strong durability in the real-world evidence, and superior storage and handling conditions,' Stephane Bancel, CEO of Moderna, said in a statement.

'We recognize that access to COVID-19 vaccines continues to be a challenge in many parts of the world and we remain committed to helping to protect as many people as possible around the globe.'

As part of the deal, Moderna will deliver 15 million doses to the continent before the end of the year.

Another 35 million doses will be shipped to the continent in the first quarter of 2022, and 60 million in the year's second quarter.

It is the first time the African Union has struck a deal to purchase doses from Moderna.

If the full contract with Moderna is activated, African nations can reach the goal of vaccinating 450 million people by September 2022, Masiyiwa said.

That's half of the target of vaccinating 70% of the continent's population, or 900 million people.

African nations earlier struck a deal with Johnson & Johnson for up to 400 million doses.

Moderna said this agreement is separate from its deal with the global COVAX project to supply up to 500 million doses from late this year through 2022.

COVAX aims to supply doses to low- and middle-income countries.

And yet with all these vaccines, the African continent will not hit the mark of fully vaccinating 10 percent of its population by the end of this year, said Vera Songwe, executive secretary of the U.N. Economic Commission for Africa.

Africa is by far the least vaccinated continent in the world. Less than 10% of the population has received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine, compared to more than 55% in Asia, Europe, North America and South America

Less than 9 percent of the population in Africa has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, said Seth Berkley of GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, calling it 'unacceptable.'

For comparison, all of Asia, Europe, North America and South America have gotten at least 55 percent of their populations at least partially vaccinated.

He said COVAX by the end of this year expects to have 470 million doses available for Africa and exceed 900 million doses by the end of March.

He said 127 million doses have been delivered so far.
The European Union's drug regulator is beginning to review Merck's antiviral COVID-19 drug, which is taken as an oral pill.

Experts have said this drug is a potential 'game-changer' for the pandemic as the first Covid treatment that would not require needles or intravenous infusions.

A clinical trial found that the pill halves the risks of Covid hospitalization and death for patients who are at high risk due to their age or medical conditions.

The European agency's review follows several large orders of Merck's pill, including France's purchase of 50,000 doses.

Merck applied for emergency use authorization at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) earlier in October. If it's approved, the U.S. will receive over one million doses.

Merck's antiviral pill may be a 'game-changer' as the first Covid drug to not require needles or intravenous infusions. Pictured: Merck's pills, in a photo released by the company

Vaccines continue to be the most effective tools to protect people against Covid infection, severe disease, and death.

But for people who are particularly vulnerable to severe symptoms and for regions of the world that don't yet have ready access to vaccines, drugs are an important part of mitigating Covid.

To that end, an antiviral drug made by the U.S. pharmaceutical company Merck is gaining momentum as a potential 'game-changer' for the future of the pandemic.

On Monday, the company announced that it asked the European Medicines Agency (EMA) to consider its drug for approval.

The EU's drug regulator will conduct a 'rolling review,' in which the agency reviews data as soon as information becomes available.

This type of review expedites the approval process, as the agency does not need to wait for a formal application with all necessary data.

Merck developed this pill - formally named molnupiravir - with Ridgeback Biotherapeutics, a biotech company headquartered in Miami, Florida.

The drug works by interfering with coronavirus genetic material, blocking the virus's ability to replicate after a patient has been infected.

Patients who are at high risk for severe Covid symptoms can take it after learning that they have been infected by the virus.

In Merck's clinical trial, patients took the pill in the form of four capsules, twice a day, for five days.

This regimen started five days after patients experienced their initial Covid symptoms.

Merck's trial found that the pill was highly effective - it halved patients' risk of being hospitalized or dying from Covid.

In fact, early results from the trial were so promising that an independent evaluation committee recommended that Merck end the trial early.

Researchers did not observe any major side effects in the clinical trial, which focused on testing the drug in high-risk patients - including adults over age 60 and those with diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

Merck's pill was designed for patients who are at high risk for severe Covid due to their age or medical conditions. Pictured: Merck's logo at the company's campus in New Jersey, July 2018

If the pill is approved by drug regulators, it would be the first Covid drug to be given orally - rather than with a needle or intravenous infusion.

The EU is set to purchase a large number of doses if the EMA approves the drug.

Merck also applied for emergency use authorization at the U.S. FDA earlier in October. An advisory committee is set to meet and discuss the drug in late November.

If the FDA authorizes the drug, the U.S. is set to purchase 1.7 million doses at $700 for the number of pills one patient would require in a five-day course.

In addition, France has recently ordered 50,000 doses, the country announced Tuesday.

Other countries including the U.K., Australia, Malaysia, and Singapore already have contracts in place as well.

Some global health experts are concerned that Merck's pill could follow the same patterns as Covid vaccines, in which high-income nations receive more doses while low-income countries are not able to purchase the drug.

But Merck has committed to providing equitable and timely access to the drug around the world and has sought to license it to other manufacturers, Al Jazeera reports.
Three California teenagers have been found to have developed psychiatric symptoms as a result of COVID-19 infection, in what is a rare but terrifying side-effect of the virus many assume younger people are safe from.

A research team from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), performed case studies on the three teens to examine how exactly this occurred.

Each of the three teens have very different cases and difference backgrounds, making the symptoms especially confusing.

While three cases is not enough to draw widescale conclusions about the virus, researchers believe the symptoms could be the result of an immune response that causes inflammation in certain parts of the brain.

Researchers have investigated at least three cases of teenagers experiencing psychiatric symptoms after contracting Covid. One of the patients is still feeling the symptoms after six months of treatment. One of the researchers told DailyMail.com that they believe it could be a result of a person's brain becoming inflamed as part of an immune response to the virus (file photo)

The UCSF research team, who published their findings in JAMA Neurology on Monday, gathered medical testing and screening data from the three patients while they were hospitalized due to their psychiatric issues.

Dr Sam Pleasure, a neurology professor at UCSF and co-author of the study, told the DailyMail.com that there is an established link between viral infections similar to Covid and these types of psychiatric issues.

'As neurologists, we are used to thinking about these things are occurring post infectious phenomena,' he said.

'We know based on the literature on SARS that there were a reasonable amount of incidence.'

Nearly two decades ago, when SARS, or SARS-CoV-1, initially had an outbreak in Asia, there was a string of people displaying psychological issues that experts believe could have been caused by the virus.

While a causal association can not be established, researchers are confident that the phenomena is not a coincidence.

Now with COVID-19, or SARS-CoV-2, researchers are beginning to detect the same link between the viral infection and these types of issues.

Like many other organs, the brain can become inflamed as a result of a person's immune system fighting the virus.

If the part of the brain that controls a person's thoughts become inflamed, Pleasure says, then it is possible that they will face psychiatric issues.

The first patient in the case study had a history of anxiety and depression before he tested positive for Covid.

Following their infection, they suddenly began to experience sever symptoms of paranoia 'quite abruptly', Pleasure says.

The patient started to believe that people were following them around and had 'delusions of persecution'.

While this patient did use marijuana, the researchers have ruled the drug out as a cause.

Patient one quickly began to feel better after immunotherapy treatment, though, and after a month of treatment had fully recovered.

The second patient had a much more severe case that they are still receiving treatment for.

Before Covid, they already had struggled with anxiety and some mental tics.

While this patient never tested positive for Covid, they started to experience symptoms of the virus early in the pandemic and an antibody test showed that they had been infected at some point.

After recovering from infection, they started having trouble focusing and completing homework.

Over the next six weeks, they developed suicidal ideation, aggression, sadness, mood lability, and insomnia, among other symptoms.

Ten weeks after their symptoms began they were admitted into the hospital.

The patients received on-and-off treatment for the next six months, and while they have improved, there are still some lingering psychiatric issues they are experiencing from infection.

There are going to be a subgroup of people who will not get better with purely psychiatric approaches,' Pleasure said, adding that there needs to be more investigation into the development of these issues.

Pleasure believes that the third patient may be different that the other two.

After four days of 'odd behavior' like insomnia and anorexia, they checked into the hospital.

The patient reported taking an unknown substance when the symptoms started, though nothing showed up on a toxicology report.

A PCR test found the patient positive for Covid.

Pleasure has his doubts, though, and believes the patient's symptoms may have just been a result of whatever substance he took.

The symptoms quickly disappeared after a few days, and the person returned to normal - and Pleasure believes that was a result of the substance just wearing off.

At least two of these patients, both of which had a history of some psychiatric issues before the virus, developed severe symptoms after infection.

Pleasure ties these issues to a condition called 'long Covid', where a person will feel symptoms related to the virus long after recovery.

Other long Covid symptoms include anosmia - the loss of taste and smell that Pleasure also believes could be tied to brain inflammation, extreme fatigue, 'brain fog', frequent headaches and more.

Some experts believe that somewhere between 30 to 70 percent of Covid patients will experience long Covid in some form.

Why exactly this occurs, and how exactly to treat the condition have baffled experts in recent months.
A body representing renters has called for a 'national landlord register' in England to help weed out bad landlords and unsafe homes.

Generation Rent has said that forcing buy-to-let landlords to get a license to rent out properties, which is already required in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, would make it easier for councils to reprimand those who make money from sub-par rental properties.

Some English councils already ask landlords in their area to register with them, though it is not a requirement nationwide.

Generation Rent argue that registration schemes make it easier for councils to keep track of which properties are being rented out in their area, and to take action if needed.

Landlords in England aren't currently required to register with the local council - but Generation Rent says doing so would make it easier for tenants to vet them

It also claimed it made it easier for tenants to check whether their landlord was legally allowed to rent out their home.

New research from the Centre for Public Data has found that those councils which do require landlords to register were twice as likely to take action on unsafe homes than those that did not.

According to the CPFD's analysis of government figures, the 32 English councils with selective licensing schemes identified an average of 158 unsafe homes each in 2019-20.

This was compared with 63 on average among the 200 councils without such schemes.

A national landlord register would mean landlords had to apply for a landlord license with their local council and pay a fee.

Alicia Kennedy, director of Generation Rent, said: 'Existing licensing schemes have a clear track record of helping councils to identify unsafe homes and bring them up to standard, but the vast majority of private renters are not protected by them.

'Nationwide landlord registration would give enforcement authorities valuable intelligence about this sector, make it easier to inform tenants of their rights, and prevent criminals from renting out homes in the first place.'

Most of the existing council schemes in England require that landlords renew every five years, and fees range from 350 to 900 for that period.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are already subject to a licensing scheme, but the CFPD estimates that less than 8 per cent of homes in England are covered by one.

Fees for registration in other countries are much lower, starting at 70 in Northern Ireland for example.

As well as helping councils crack down on unsafe homes, Generation Rent said a landlord register could also make it easier for HMRC to track down landlords who did not declare their rental income for tax purposes.

Anna Powell-Smith, director of the CFPD, added: 'In England, you have to register to run a takeaway or work as an art therapist, but anyone can be a landlord - remarkable given how dangerous it is to live in a property with faulty wiring, boilers or mould.

'A patchwork of schemes will never give renters the protection they need, and are an inefficient use of council resources. A national register will be cheaper to run and more effective in raising standards.'

Separate research by rent-to-buy provider Wayhome found that 1 in 7 UK renters said their living situation was causing 'feelings of depression'.

Of those renters who said their living situation had contributed to feelings of depression, anxiety, or isolation, or had caused other mental health issues, one in five (20 per cent) blamed the fixtures and fittings being in poor condition.

Buy-to-let industry advocates have said a licensing system may not work as intended

But the buy-to-let industry has hit back against the licensing proposal, saying that bad landlords would simply swerve signing up to the register.

A spokesperson for the National Residential Landlords Association said: 'A national register of landlords would do nothing in itself to enhance enforcement, and would simply become a list of good landlords whilst those who wilfully flout their responsibilities fail to come forward.'

Timothy Douglas, policy and campaigns officer at the letting and managing agent body Propertymark, said he doubted whether councils would have enough resources to properly enforce registration.

'Propertymark does not believe that licensing schemes are an effective way of promoting higher quality accommodation in the private rented sector.

'This is because most schemes fail as they are not adequately resourced to undertake the necessary enforcement activity.

'The licensing regime becomes an administrative exercise, penalising those landlords who comply with the regulations whilst still allowing the landlords that the scheme was designed to target to continue operating under the radar.

Instead, Douglas said that letting and property management agents should be regulated.

'There is no statutory regulation to ensure agents are suitably qualified. Additionally, agents who are not members of a professional body do not have to meet minimum competency standards,' he said.

The Government is currently working on a white paper on rental reform, including the possibility of a national landlord register. It is set to be published this autumn.
Saga's boss slammed its previous private equity owners as he admitted the company has lost its way.

Euan Sutherland, who joined the over-50s insurance and holiday specialist in January last year, criticised a lack of investment following its 1.35billion takeover in 2004.

Saga is now worth just 430m, a fraction of that, having been loaded up with debt and then floated on the stock market in 2014 by private equity owners Charterhouse, Permira and CVC.

Speaking out: Euan Sutherland criticised a lack of investment following its 1.35billion takeover in 2004

Shares are down 90 per cent since their peak in 2016.

Speaking as he launched a major rebranding in a bid to reconnect with older customers, Sutherland said: 'I think for the last probably ten years, maybe longer than that, we have not modernised as a brand.

'Our customers have moved on with their lives and are contemporary to 2021. We've fallen behind. So part of what we're trying to correct is the perception of the word Saga and the brand.

'I think it was because of private equity ownership, which was just optimising for that year and not investing in the future. As a business, it suffered from different ownership structures for periods of time.'

Saga is just one of a number of firms that have found it difficult under private equity ownership.

Others include Debenhams, Silentnight, Bernard Matthews, Cath Kidston and Toys R Us.

There are mounting concerns over private equity's influence over the British economy.

A host of firms have been targeted by the industry since the start of the pandemic, including supermarkets Asda and Morrisons, security firm G4S and defence giant Ultra Electronics.

In a bid to revive Saga and its brand, Sutherland said the company needs to see its customers as 'experienced' rather than just 'old'. The 52-year-old father of three also wants to tap into the huge extra wealth gained by retirees who saved the most cash during the pandemic as the economy shut down.

'People are living longer than ever before,' he said. 'They are working longer, they are helping their families, they are contributing to society.

'We know our customers do not feel old  they feel as if they are experienced. They have lived full lives, have so much to give and fully intend to make the most of each and every day.' Saga is battling to recover from the Covid19 pandemic which left its two cruise ships tied up at Tilbury Docks for much of the crisis.

They only took to the sea recently as restrictions eased. During that time, the ships needed to be continually serviced, ensuring long periods without moving did not cause lasting damage.

Sutherland said: 'These ships are like aircraft  they're not meant to stop.

'They're meant to pause for the day and move on. So, we had to keep them functioning, including things like getting barnacles taken off the boat.'

Bookings have been strong since restrictions eased and around 70 per cent of customers who booked travel during the pandemic retained their bookings though some had their dates moved four times. Sutherland criticised the travel restrictions imposed by the Government.

'I don't think the red, amber, green policy helped,' he said. 'It was totally confusing. I think our customers gave up for a while, going, 'I just don't know how to navigate it'. As we come out of that now I think we're in a much better place.'

Sutherland said the country's shift to staycations is unlikely to continue, with people keener to get away than stay in the UK.

He said: 'The feedback from our customers is that they can't wait to get away.'
Collapse: Gieves & Hawkes dates back to 1771

One of Savile Rows oldest tailors is on the hunt for a buyer to save it from collapse after 250 years in business.

Gieves & Hawkes, which dates back to 1771 and has dressed British royalty as well as Nelson and Churchill, is on the brink following a debt crisis at its Chinese parent company.

It made the Queens boat cloak in 1953 and has also dressed the Prince of Wales, George VI and George V, and Princes William and Harry.

The brand, and its sister company Kent & Curwen, are owned by Trinity Group, a subsidiary of Shandong Ruyi Technology Group, which styles itself as the Chinese LVMH, the luxury conglomerate behind Louis Vuitton.

But the firm has suffered a series of credit defaults following high-profile international acquisitions which left it with 2.9billion of debt.

Gieves & Hawkes faces being wound up and could disappear altogether unless a buyer can be found.

Industry sources said a buyer was most likely to be an Asian retailer or private equity firm, which will look to leverage the brands Savile Row heritage to sell to the Asian market.
A cryptocurrency company is on track to purchase the Gibraltar Stock Exchange (GXS).

Valereum Blockchain, a Gibraltar-based blockchain technology group, has signed an option to snap up 80 per cent of the GSX.

If given the green light by regulators, Valereum claims it would establish the worlds first fully regulated integrated fiat and digital exchange, where investors could buy securities using bitcoin, ethereum, dogecoin, cardano and stablecoin tether.

Speaking to This is Money, Richard Poulden, chairman of Valereum, said: 'Gibraltar is a great place for this world first integrated exchange due to the fact it uses English language, it has a good legal structure and has a robust regulatory environment to European standards.

'This is a very exciting opportunity for investors as they will be able to use crypto to invest in fiat securities in a fully regulated environment for the first time.'

On the cards: Valereum Blockchain has signed an option to snap up 80% of the Gilbraltar Stock Exchange

No crucial details like price have been disclosed. Valereum said in a statement: 'As with many exchange transactions the full details remain confidential.'

Valereum's Mr Poulden, said: 'This deal represents the next stage in the evolution of digital assets becoming globally accepted and tradeable.

'It brings crypto closer to the mainstream and opens it up to be used in transactions with other asset classes.

'Just as The Rock of Gibraltar has been a physical port for centuries, GSX will encourage the next generation of digital assets to see Gibraltar as a virtual node in digital trade.

'In time we will seek an international listing for the GSX itself as we see this as a compelling investment proposition.'

If the deal goes ahead, current GSX owner, the Global Stock Exchange Group, will retain a 20 per cent stake in the GSX.

Nick Cowan, chief executive of both the GSX and the GSX Group, said: We have grown GSX into an attractive destination for high grade issuers and have to date admitted over 2,500 securities totalling almost $5 billion in value.

'We welcome Valereums option to acquire an 80 per cent stake in the GSX and we look forward to contributing towards Valereums goals.'

Price matters: Bitcoin is hovering at around the $62,000 mark today

Speaking to This is Money, Ollie Leech, CoinDesk Learn Editor, said: 'Gibraltar has already established itself as a fintech hub, as is widely considered a "jurisdiction of choice" for crypto-based businesses too.

'If Valereum Blockchain wins approval from the GFSC to purchase the Gibraltar Stock Exchange, it would mark a huge moment in history for the digital asset industry.

'Not only will it serve to bridge the gap between traditional and digital finance, but also add further legitimacy to the crypto market.'

Jodie Gunzberg, managing director at CoinDesk Indexes, added: 'Allowing digital assets to trade easily on exchange together with traditional assets is an advancement that will allow investors to better diversify their portfolios.'

'This has been an exciting time for bitcoin with the launch of new bitcoin futures ETFs. However, while investors can easily trade ETFs, the problem is the ETFs hold no bitcoin.

'Consequently, the returns are not the same, and the risks are different. Futures have a rolling cost from selling expiring contracts and buying later-dated ones and also have position limits that have forced more money into later-dated contracts to make the rolling costs higher. In just one week, the futures-based ETF (BITO) has underperformed the spot fund (GBTC) by about 7.5%, and the rolling cost has doubled.

'While most view bitcoin as digital gold, the cost of holding the futures contracts is nearly ten times higher as high as gold, equivalent to the cost of holding oil and gas. However, since one can easily buy bitcoin itself, there is no need to hold futures or equities that are linked to bitcoin.'

The price of bitcoin is currently over $62,000, having climbed above $66,000 just days ago. Some experts think it could climb to $90,000 in the not too distant future.

With COP26 just around the corner, some are calling for the decarbonisation of the cryptocurrency sector.

Kirsteen Harrison, environmental consultant at Zumo, said: 'The crypto sector must aim for full decarbonisation by 2030.

'For crypto to reach its full potential and be widely adopted by society, the sector urgently needs to address its carbon footprint.

'Fortunately the crypto sector has a relatively easy decarbonisation path ahead of it, compared to many other sectors.

'In crypto, decarbonisation can be achieved simply by using renewable electricity. There are no complex supply chains, no deeply entrenched ways of working, and we have a clear understanding of where the impacts are.

'This puts us streets ahead of many other sectors, including traditional finance, which has a complex web of financed emissions to deal with. We are a young and agile sector, and we have a huge opportunity to show the world how an entire sector can fully decarbonise.'
Inheritance tax has been named Britain's most hated tax, despite it being paid by only 4 per cent of the population's estates.

As many as one in four people consider it their least favourite tax, according to a survey by Hargreaves Lansdown, making it more unpopular than income tax, national insurance, and VAT.

Tax on income, which includes income tax and National Insurance, is the second most hated with 17 per cent of Britons picking this as their most despised levy.

The most hated tax in the UK is inheritance tax, named by one in four people

Sarah Coles, personal finance analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown said: 'Nobody actively enjoys paying tax, but while we're prepared to accept some as a fact of life, others inspire deep and abiding hatred among millions of us.

'Our hatred of inheritance tax belies the fact that in reality only 4 per cent of people pay it, and that of the 334.3billion taken in tax between April and September this year, just 3.1billion of it was inheritance tax.'

She adds: 'Rather than being a specific irritation with how it affects us, in many cases it's more of an ideological resentment.

'People don't like to think of money they've already paid tax on being taxed again, and they want their loved ones to benefit from their legacy rather than the taxman.'

But while it is only paid by a small amount of estates, the amount taken in by the taxman has nearly doubled in a decade, from 2.9billion in 2011/12 to 5.2billion in 2020/21.

Recent decades have seen more families caught in the inheritance tax net, as rising property prices push a generation's homes into being affected.

The addition of the extra own residence nil rate band, of 175,000 each, which took the total total amount that can be passed on tax-free to direct descendants by a married couple or civil partners up to 1million, has stalled this but numbers are expected to climb again.

Some analysts suggest that in future as many as one in ten estates could end up paying 40 per cent tax on some wealth passed on.

The survey also found that tax on investments such as capital gains tax was joint third on the most despised tax list - 15 per cent of people voted for this as their most hated form of taxation.

Britain's most hated taxes Tax % of Britons who hate it the most Inheritance tax 24% Income taxes 17% Tax on spending 15% Tax on investments 15% Sin taxes (sugar, alcohol, petrol)

10% Tax on buying property 8% Tax on property investments 4% Other taxes 6%

Men are more likely to resent tax on spending - 18 per cent compared to 13 per cent of women, whilst women are more likely to hate inheritance tax - 27 per cent compared to 22 per cent of men.

With the budget taking place on Wednesday there are fears about tax rises as the Government looks to recoup the coffers spent battling Covid.

The Government borrowed 320billion in the year ending April 2021, which is the highest figure recorded outside of wartime and economists expect the government will borrow a further 180billion by the end of this tax year.

As the Chancellor weighs up potential tax changes in the budget, we take a closer look at inheritance tax, as well as tax on income and investments, and consider the likelihood of any rising on Wednesday.

UK's most hated taxes - what they really rake in for the government Tax Tax year Total raised % of all UK tax receipts Avg cost per household Inheritance tax 2019/20 5.1 billion 0.6% 170 Income tax 2019/20 193.6 billion 23.4% 6,800 National Insurance 2019/20 145 billion 17.5% 5,100 Tax on spending (VAT) 2019/20 134 billion 16.2% 4,700 Capital gains tax 2019/20 9.8 billion 1.2% 340 Source: Office for Budget Responsibility

Inheritance tax

What is it?

Inheritance Tax is a tax on the estate of someone who has passed away.

Inheritance tax is charged at 40 per cent above the tax-free allowances everyone has on their estate, known as nil rate bands.

This is made up of the standard nil rate band of 325,000 per individual - of which any unused element can be passed on to a spouse or civil partner, effectively doubling their allowance to 650,000.

Under current rules, if you give away a main family home to direct descendants, a total of 500,000 each, or 1million combined, is the maximum value that a married couple or civil partners' estate can reach before it starts being liable for the 40 per cent inheritance tax rate.

In total, this means property-owning spouses can benefit from a 1million buffer before their estate incurs inheritance tax.

But if the total value of an estate is worth 2million or more, the additional main residence nil rate band will be tapered at 1 for every 2 over the 2million threshold, meaning some higher value estates eventually lose the own home benefit altogether.

THE INHERITANCE TAX TAKE Tax year Government inheritance tax receipts (billion) 2011/12 2.90billion 2012/13 3.11billion 2013/14 3.40billion 2014/15 3.80billion 2015/16 4.65billion 2016/17 4.82billion 2017/18 5.21billion 2018/19 5.36billion 2019/20 5.12billion 2020/21 5.33billion Source: HMRC/NFU Mutual

The other key inheritance tax basic to remember is the seven-year rule.

This applies to gifts that are above set limits - for example, making more than 3,000 in gifts per year - and are known as potentially exempt transfers.

Such a gift will only be free of inheritance tax if you survive more than seven years after making it.

If someone dies between years three and seven of making a gift, inheritance tax on it tapers down on a sliding scale.

Outside the gifting allowances, you can make gifts of any size (known as potentially exempt transfers) and as long as you live for at least seven years after handing it over, it falls outside of your estate for inheritance tax purposes.

If you die before the seven years are up, and your estate is subject to inheritance tax rules, you will have to pay tax on some of this.

Will it rise?

It's very unlikely. Earlier this year, the chancellor, Rishi Sunak said the inheritance tax nil-rate bands would be frozen until 2026.

By then, the 325,000 exemption would have remained frozen for 17 years.

But regardless, more and more people are likely to become liable for paying it due to asset prices continuing to rise.

HMRC revealed it collected 5.33billion from inheritance tax in the 2020-21 financial year, up from 5.12billion the year before.

INHERITANCE TAX AND TAPER RELIEF Years between gift and death Tax paid Less than 3 40% 3 to 4 32% 4 to 5 24% 5 to 6 16% 6 to 7 8% 7 or more 0%

With average house prices having risen by 25,000 over the past year according to ONS figures, more people are finding themselves dragged over the threshold at which inheritance tax becomes due - largely due to the value of their property.

Rather than tinkering with the headline rate, experts believe the Chancellor is more likely to target various areas that are currently exempt from inheritance tax such as some agricultural land.

Graham Boar, partner at chartered accountants UHY Hacker Young says; 'It's unlikely there will be an increase in the headline rate of inheritance tax, which is already high at 40 per cent.

'If the Government wants to do a raid on Inheritance Tax, it's far more likely to come from removing or trimming back Business Property Relief or Agricultural Relief.

'These reliefs shelter certain assets from Inheritance Tax and can mean big chunks of wealth are passed down without incurring any charges.

'There's been criticism that these reliefs are being applied too generously at the moment, which makes them an easier target for the Government to go for than increasing the headline rate of IHT.'

Tax on income

What is it?

Tax on income includes income tax and National Insurance.

Taxes on different forms of personal income provide the biggest source of revenue for Government with income tax raising 193.6billion in the 2019/20 tax year.

Income tax is the tax you pay on regular earnings, such as working as an employee or any profits you make if you're self-employed.

Income tax Band Taxable income Tax rate Personal Allowance Up to 12,570 0% Basic rate 12,571 to 50,270 20% Higher rate 50,271 to 150,000 40% Additional rate over 150,000 45%

It can include rental income if you're a landlord, interest earned on savings and it is also charged on some state benefits such as job seekers allowance and most pensions including the state pension.

You begin paying income tax if you earn above 12,570 in a given tax year - up until this point everyone has a personal tax free allowance.

However, your personal allowance goes down by 1 for every 2 that your income is above 100,000 meaning your allowance becomes zero if your income is 125,140 or above.

Your income between 12,571 and 50,270 is taxed at the basic rate of 20 per cent whilst income between 50,270 and 150,000 is taxed at the higher rate of 40 per cent.

Those earning 150,000 or more are taxed at the additional rate of 45 per cent on all income received above that level.

Different taxpayers pay different types of National Insurance Who pays How much is it Employees earning more than 183 per week 12% (or 2% if you earn over 262 a week) Employers for employees earning over 183 per week 13.8% Self-employed people earning over 6,515 a year Flat 159 per year Self-employed people earning over 9,568 a year 9% (or 2% if you earn over 50,270) Source: TaxScouts

On top of income tax, we also pay national insurance contributions to qualify for certain benefits and the state pension.

You will pay this if you're an employee earning above 184 a week or self-employed making a profit of 6,515 or more a year.

National insurance is currently charged at a rate of 12 per cent on earnings between 184 and 967 each week and at 2 per cent on earnings over that - although this is set to rise from April next year.

Will it rise?

National insurance is already set to increase from next Spring, rising by 1.25 per cent from 12 per cent to 13.25 per cent.

This came despite the Conservative party pledging not to raise taxes in its 2019 manifesto.

The increase will mean a worker who earns 30,000 a year will have to pay an extra 255 in tax while a worker who earns 50,000 will pay an additional 505.

National insurance is set to increase from next Spring, rising by 1.25 per cent from 12 per cent to 13.25 per cent.

High earners with a salary of 100,000 will have to pay an extra 1,130.

Few commentators are expecting the Government to increase income tax or announce a further rise to national insurance.

Richard Brooks private tax advisor at MHA Monahans says: 'No one can truly predict what is going to happen on 27 October however, but it is unlikely that the government will increase income tax or national insurance for the 2022 tax year due to its commitment to the UK being a low tax jurisdiction.

Boar adds: 'The Chancellor has a huge hole to fill in the country's finances and it would be tempting for him to raise income tax, even by 1 per cent, as this would raise a huge amount of money.

'But it's highly unlikely the Chancellor will go down this route as it would be enormously unpopular - an increase in income tax would affect almost everyone, not just the wealthy.

'The Chancellor has already caused a lot of ripples by his raid on National Insurance Contributions.'

Tax on investments

What is it?

Tax on investments typically relates to capital gains tax and in the case of stocks and shares will also often involve dividends.

Capital gains tax can be charged on any profit you make on an asset that has increased in value, when you come to sell or when gifting it or transferring to someone else.

You are only required to pay capital gains tax if the gain you make exceeds your 12,300 tax free allowance in a single year.

For investments such as stocks and shares, basic rate taxpayers pay 10 per cent when exceeding their personal allowance whilst higher rate and additional rate taxpayers pay 20 per cent.

It's also worth noting that crypto assets such as bitcoin are also charged capital gains tax at this rate.

On residential property, capital gains tax is currently charged at 18 per cent for basic rate taxpayers and 28 per cent for higher rate taxpayers - although when selling your main home you are entirely shielded from this by what is known as principal private residence relief.

If you make more than 2,000 in dividends outside an Isa, or realise more than 12,300 in capital gains in a single year, you will need to pay tax.

The most effective way to minimise any potential capital gains tax or dividends tax bill is to make full use your Isa allowance each tax year.

Shaun Moore, tax and financial planning expert at Quilter says: 'Isas should be an investors or savers best friend when it comes to tax efficiency.

'It should be used as much as possible up to the annual 20,000 allowance to shield savings and investments from capital gains tax, income tax or dividends tax.'

Will it rise?

Like with national insurance, from April next year, the dividend tax rate will rise by 1.25 per cent meaning basic rate taxpayers will begin paying 8.75 per cent whilst higher rate taxpayers will pay 33.75 per cent.

The government may therefore refrain from tinkering with that prior to the increase taking effect.

Top tips to save on CGT By Natalie Field, partner accountant at TaxScouts 1. Use your annual allowance of 12.3k. It's 'use it or lose it' so you can't carry it forward to future tax years if not fully utilised. 2. Most assets can be transferred tax-free to spouses or civil partners, so it may be worth transferring to the individual who pays tax at a lower rate or who has more allowance to use. 3. Offset your losses against your gains. For example, you may have some underperforming shares which you can sell at a loss to then offset against gains made on your better performing investments. 4. Reduce your taxable income. The rate at which you pay Income Tax denotes which rate you pay for Capital Gains Tax. 5. Make investments in ISAs as any gains are tax-free. 6. Spread gains over several years to make the most of the yearly allowances and lower tax brackets.

However, there was speculation that capital gains tax would rise before the last budget, which has led some to speculate that it could be targeted this time.

Last year, the Institute for Public Policy Research think-tank estimated that a capital gains tax rise could raise an extra 90billion over five years, which would certainly help with the UK's spiralling debts.

A later report by the Office of Tax Simplification published in November 2020, recommended that capital gains tax rates be increased to bring them in line with income tax.

Tram Abramov chief executive of TaxScouts, an online tax return service says: 'In terms of a prediction for this coming Budget, there has been talk for some time about capital gains tax levels being brought more in line with income tax levels, which they'd likely justify as a way to generate revenue as well as simplify the tax system.'

Interestingly some further analysis suggests that the actual percentage of capitals gains tax people are paying is reducing.

In the 2019/20 tax year, just 9.3billion of capital gains tax was paid on gains worth 62.7billion, according to research by accountancy group, UHY Hacker Young.

This means of the capital gains made in the past tax year, an effective rate of only 14.9 per cent tax was ultimately paid, down from 16.5 per cent a decade ago.

The decrease in the effective rate of tax paid is likely due to people becoming more aware of the types of reliefs available and making greater use of these.

Boar says: 'The decreasing effective rate of capital gains tax paid suggests many investors are making as much use of the tax reliefs as they can.

'Whilst they are well within their rights to do that, it is impacting HM Treasury's desire to maximise tax revenues.

'Clamping down further on some of the capital gains tax reliefs seems a logical next step, as well as looking at the headline rate.'
A glamorous teen equestrian believes she may be the first Australian to suffer an extremely rare blood-clotting reaction to Pfizer's Covid vaccination after falling gravely ill after her jab - but not all doctors agree.

Twelve hours after Cienna Knowles, 19, received her second Pfizer shot at Erina Family Medical Centre on October 21 the normally healthy and active teen experienced 'excruciating' chest pain.

Doctors initially told the teenager and her mother Rebecca Donnelly that she had suffered a portal vein thrombosis (PVT), which isn't listed as a side effect of the Pfizer vaccine by Australian health officials.

Instead her medical team said the clotting was most likely caused by a reaction to the contraceptive pill, which is well-known as a common risk factor for PVT.

But Ms Knowles and her family argue she's a 'one in a million' case of blood clotting after Pfizer - and say subsequent tests and other doctors have attested the same.

'It felt like I was dying I was in so much pain,' Ms Knowles said this week, adding that she only had the jab because her employer made it mandatory.

Cienna Knowles, 19, a promising young equestrian, had her second Pfizer jab on Thursday morning and within hours she was rushed to Gosford Hospital on the NSW Central Coast

After having the Pfizer jab Ms Knowles says she developed blood clots 'all through my legs, stomach and through both lungs' and took to social media to share her frightening story. But her mother admitted doctors told her the contraceptive pill was to blame

Cienna Knowles' brush with blood clots: Thursday October 21: Ms Knowles gets her second Pfizer jab at Erina Family Medical Centre on the NSW Central Coast. Friday October 22: Experiences chest pain and taken to Gosford Hospital. Blood tests revealed she has clots in her lungs, stomach and legs. Leaves the hospital. Saturday October 23: Cienna brought back to the hospital when the pain gets worse. Sunday October 24: Cienna put on blood thinners and has a number of follow-up specialist appointments. Tuesday October 26: Cienna is back home recovering. Advertisement

Ms Knowles tried to cope with the pain but was rushed by family to Gosford Hospital the next morning, where scans and blood tests revealed she had blood clots in her lungs, stomach and legs.

She was sent home on Friday night, then returned to hospital when the pain got even worse on Saturday.

'I was 100 per cent in fear for my life, I was panicking,' the 19-year-old said.

After close monitoring, including hourly blood tests at one stage, blood thinners and follow-up specialist appointments, Ms Knowles is now recovering at home.

'My blood is very thin and it still feels like I'm being stabbed all over my body,' she said.

'I've got to be super careful. I was told not to blow my nose too hard. And not to knock my head or I could get a brain bleed - I'm pretty fragile.'

Teenager Cienna Knowles suffered from blood clotting hours after her second Pfizer jab

Ms Knowles shared her story on Facebook and Instagram

According to Ms Knowles, she was told by doctors the severe reaction she was having was a result of the contraceptive pill, even though the teen had been on birth control for a year without any side effects.

Ms Donnelly said doctors at Gosford Hospital informed her on Saturday that her daughter had suffered PVT.

In Australia there are 45 cases of blood clots per million people following vaccination and it is more usually associated with the AstraZeneca vaccination.

The sporty and active Cienna Knowles (pictured) has been told she cannot engage in her hobbies such as dirt bike riding for up to 12 months after her frightening clotting episode

Ms Donnelly and her daughter both claim that diagnosis was incorrect and that subsequent discussions with other doctors confirmed that her Pfizer jab played a role.

'I was informed by doctors and a specialist at Kincumber this blood clotting was caused by the vaccination,' Ms Knowles said.

'Everyone is going to react to this vaccine differently.

'I know this is a one in a million reaction but I am that one in a million.

'I have no underlying issues, in fact I never get sick. The doctors think this is a once in a lifetime thing and I'll never have blood clots again.'

Ms Donnelly said even if the pill was partly responsible she is 'certain' the vaccination had something to do with her daughter's ordeal.

'Pfizer needs to tell people there's a risk if you're on the pill,' Ms Donnelly said.

'My daughter was fit and healthy and riding horses one day, has a jab and then within a few hours she's in a hospital bed, cannot drive or exercise and is facing six to 12 months of medical care.

'It cannot be a coincidence.'

The sporty Ms Knowles, who loves the beach, dirt bikes and four wheel drives as well as competitive horse riding had just been offered a lucrative sponsorship for her equestrian talent before she was carted off to hospital.

Ms Donnelly claimed two of the doctors who had seen her daughter assured her they planned to report her case as an adverse reaction to Pfizer.

So far the case has not been relayed to the Therapeutic Good Administration (TGA), which produces a weekly summary of reported side effects.

According to the TGA's latest report there have been 32,281 reports of side effects from the Comirnaty vaccine.

Cienna Knowles is a promising equestrian from the NSW Central Coast

Official Comirnaty (Pfizer) side effects Headache, muscle and joint pain, chills, fever and nausea were commonly reported as adverse reactions in clinical trials and if they occur are expected to be transient. Night sweats were reported uncommonly. Vomiting has been reported in post-marketing experience. Stress-related responses to the process of vaccination may include symptoms such as palpitations and sweating and are also described in the Comirnaty Product Information. Side effects such as tiredness, headache, muscle or joint pain and fever and chills are common side effects of vaccines generally, are usually mild and go away within 1 to 2 days. Source: Federal Health Department Advertisement

A medical certificate from a GP dated October 25 claimed Ms Knowles suffered a pulmonary embolism and 'side effects from the Pfizer vaccination' and was unable to work for a week.

'I have also been informed to not ride my horses, my motorbikes, train ... drive my car and go to work,' Ms Knowles said.

NSW Health said in a statement it 'does not discuss individual cases'.

But a senior government health official who did not wish to be named told Daily Mail Australia the case was being 'investigated'.

The official noted the problems experienced by Ms Knowles were 'not consistent' with a Pfizer vaccination.

A statement from the Federal Health Department said 'blood clotting in the lungs, stomach and legs is not a recognised side effect of Comirnaty (Pfizer).'

Ms Knowles' family is understood to have approached Liberal senator Gerard Rennick, who has been vocal about vaccines.

'NSW Health is urging people to use trusted and credible sources of information to inform them about the most up to date Covid-19 information in NSW,' it said in a statement.

'We continue to encourage everyone to get vaccinated.

'The Covid-19 vaccines available in Australia are safe and very effective at reducing the risk of serious illness and death.'
NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has pleaded with Tasmanian officials to let a Sydney woman into the state to see her dying mother who has just 48 hours to live.

Mercedes Maguire, 48, was told she must quarantine for 14 days before seeing her mother Teresa Florez, 90, in Hobart after officials refused a request for a travel exemption.

Her mother is in the final stages of her battle with dementia and can no longer eat or drink, but health officials fear Ms Maguire is a high-risk for Covid transmission because she is travelling from Sydney.

The journalist told Daily Mail Australia it was heartbreaking to think she and her three siblings from NSW may not at be their mother's side as she takes her final breaths.

Mercedes Maguire has been told she must spend 14 days in hotel quarantine before seeing her dying mother Teresa Florez - who has just days to live

'When we were told she was in palliative care last Thursday we started making plans to get down there - but that's when we hit a brick wall,' she said.

'We applied for an exemption on compassionate grounds but within two days we received a response that said 'unsuccessful' in capital letters.'

Ms Maguire said her family on the mainland made a second application to enter Tasmania on Monday, but that health officials now wanted to verify the extent of her mother's illness through their own doctor.

'The thing that's the biggest torment is we want to be by her side when she passes away,' she said.

'We don't want to be in a hotel room down the road getting a phone call at 3am in the morning saying she's died.'

Ms Maguire pictured with her mother. Ms Florez is in the final stages of her battle with dementia and can no longer eat or drink

The NSW premier has intervened in her case and called for Tasmanian authorities to show compassion in her family's 'time of need'.

'While border restrictions are a matter for individual states this is surely a case where an exemption could be considered on compassionate grounds,' he said.

'I have contacted the Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein to see if the Tasmanian government could have a further look at this case.'

Even if officials approve the second application, Ms Maguire said the best she could hope for were short approved visits from hotel quarantine.

'It doesn't make sense - it's just illogical,' she said. 'Aren't we still creating a risk by visiting her?'

Ms Maguire's three siblings in Tasmania have been cleared to see their mother in her final days as they are all double vaccinated against Covid-19.

The NSW premier has intervened in the case and called for Tasmanian authorities to show compassion. 'We don't want to be in a hotel room down the road getting a phone call at 3am in the morning saying she's died,' Ms Maguire said

The Sydney woman said the decision didn't make sense given she is double-dosed too.

'We want to be there when she passes. She knows they [her siblings in Tasmania] are there and it breaks my heart to know that they're we're not there,' she told Sunrise.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Tasmania's Department of Health for comment.
The speed of the vaccine rollout in NSW has seen five local government areas hit 95 per cent of residents aged over 16 fully vaccinated, but one area is lagging behind with a little more than half of residents immunised.

The latest Department of Health data shows Sydney LGAs Hornsby, Ku-ring-gai, Hills Shire and Camden reached the 95 per cent full double-vaccination mark last week, along with Murray River in the state's south.

In contrast the Edward River LGA adjacent to Murray River on the NSW-Victoria border counts just 58.9 per cent of those 16 and over with two doses of the vaccine.

Other NSW LGAs yet to hit the 70 per cent full vaccination mark include Byron at 63.5 per cent full vaccination, Kyogle and Lismore at 69.3 percent, and Richmond Valley and Tenterfield at 68.6 per cent.

A map of LGAs in New South Wales (pictured) showing vaccination rates interestingly Murray River has one of the state's highest rates but adjacent Edward River the lowest

Sydneysiders can once again attend events and visit pubs and cafes after restrictions were lifted earlier than expected (pictured: Sydney residents attend The Everest horse race in Randwick)

Vaccination rates in NSW have sped away from earlier predictions, which suggested NSW would reach 70 per cent of the eligible population fully vaccinated by October 25.

That target was hit weeks earlier on October 11.

The 80 per cent target was then reached a week later on October 18 and the state was officially 85 per cent fully vaccinated as of Monday.

The speed of the rollout allowed new NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet to drop a range of Covid restrictions and reopen the state's struggling economy.

Lower jab rates in some regional areas highlighted by the latest figures will mean travel from Sydney to those areas is off limits until November 1.

The outbreak of the Delta strain of Covid in Sydney, which led to a four-month lockdown, is considered one of the main reasons for NSW's stellar rate of vaccination.

As is the readiness of younger people to be jabbed with available stocks of AstraZeneca.

Figures recently obtained by Daily Mail Australia from the Federal Health Department showed 819,527 AstraZeneca jabs went into the arms of young residents between July 13 - when the outbreak hit Bondi - and October 10.

High vaccination across New South Wales have allowed businesses to open early and schoolkids to get back into the classroom (pictured: a Sydney teenager gets a Covid vaccination from a popup clinic at Belmore Oval)

Along with the five LGAs leading the pack at 95 per cent of locals vaccinated, another 16 council areas have reached the also impressive 90 per cent double-jabbed mark.

These include Blacktown in Sydney's west, which endured some of the highest Covid case numbers during the lockdown, along with Campbelltown, the Northern Beaches and Sutherland.

On Tuesday, NSW reported 282 new locally acquired cases of Covid-19 and one death, two weeks after lockdown restrictions started easing in the state.

There were 12 fewer cases recorded than on the previous day but there are 457 patients with the virus in NSW hospitals, 109 of them in intensive care.

NSW Health said across the whole state 93.1 per cent of people 16 and over have received one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine and 85 per cent of adults are now fully vaccinated.

All NSW students returned to in-person teaching on Monday but, as of Tuesday, eight more schools are closed for cleaning and contact tracing after a person in the school community was diagnosed with Covid.

NSW Health has issued a list of strict measures that will be implemented when Year 12 students sit their HSC next month - including the requirement to wear masks during the exams.

On Monday, Year 2 to 11 students joined kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 12 back in classrooms (pictured: Fairvale High School in Sydney)

Exams begin on November 9 and NSW Health says a suite of measures will be enforced to ensure Covid protocols are observed.

Students will not be allowed to borrow or share equipment such as pens, pencils or calculators, and shaking hands or hugging other students is also banned.

After the exams students will be required to wipe down their chair, and no mingling will be permitted before or after.

The majority of Covid-19 cases are now being diagnosed in the regions and smaller cities, rather than in Sydney where the Delta outbreak first took hold.

Of the 294 cases reported on Monday, 166 - or 56 per cent - were outside the state capital.

The caseload is highest in the Hunter New England local health district, which had the most cases of any district in the 24 hours to 8pm on Sunday - 59. It recorded 53 cases the day before, down from 78 the previous day.

Case numbers in southwest and western Sydney once dwarfed any other area, but Hunter New England has on three occasions in the last week been the district with the highest caseload.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet (pictured) also announced swimming lessons for kids could resume with vouchers being given to parents to help with the cost

There is also a notable surge in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District, which takes in the Snowy Mountains and the Riverina region in the state's southwest.

That area reported 46 new cases on Monday, 47 on Sunday and 37 on Saturday.

Concerns vaccination rates were lower in the regions drove the NSW government's decision to postpone unrestricted travel from Sydney until November 1.

Regional communities wanted more time to get their double-dose vaccination rates as high as possible before welcoming back visitors.
'Live weapons have been banned from the set of ABC television's highly rated police drama The Rookie after a cinematographer was fatally shot and a director was wounded during filming of the movie Rust.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the project's showrunner, Alexei Hawley, mandated that the cast and crew would no longer utilize functional arms of any kind while working on the Nathan Fillion-led program.

Instead, cast and crew will handle airsoft guns, which are replica guns with reduced power that typically fire plastic pellets.

The move was made as production of the movie that Alec Baldwin was making when he shot and killed a cinematographer last week has been officially halted, but producers of the Western described the move as a pause rather than an end.

The camera was not rolling when the gun went off and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza, according to investigators.

ABC television is banning 'live' weapons and has mandated that airsoft guns be used as props on its hit police drama The Rookie. The image above shows cast members Eric Winter (front) and Melissa O'Neil (left)

Alec Baldwin is pictured sobbing after shooting and killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of his upcoming movie Rust in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Thursday

The camera was not rolling when the gun went off and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins (above) and wounded director Joel Souza, according to investigators

The image above shows airsoft replica guns being displayed during the National Rifle Association annual meeting in Indianapolis in 2019

Souza was standing behind Hutchins when the shooting took place.

Also known as non-powder guns or imitation firearms, airsoft guns are replicas that are normally used for target practice and military-style games similar to paintball guns or BB guns.

Federal law requires that anyone wishing to purchase an airsoft gun be at least 18 years of age. There are no federal regulations as to how old someone must be to use an airsoft gun.

Nationwide, states have put in place varying restrictions on the sale and use of airsoft guns.

New York bars anyone under the age of 16 from possessing an airsoft gun while Minnesota requires anyone under the age of 18 to get their parents permission.

Airsoft guns have been used as props in several high-profile television shows and movies, including The Walking Dead, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Killjoys, and 28 Weeks Later.

The executive also wrote a memo to the staff of the series that addressed the need for increased firearm safety on set following Thursday's tragic and fatal accident that occurred during the production of Rust.

Hawley's message began by expressing that The Rookie's executives sympathized with the victims of the Rust incident.

'The tragic events in New Mexico yesterday have shaken us all, and our hearts go out to the friends and family of Halyna Hutchins and Joel Souza,' it read.

Airsoft guns have been used as props in several high-profile television shows and movies, including The Walking Dead (above)

Airsoft guns were also used as props in the filming of the 2007 thriller 28 Weeks Later

Hawley's message also pointed out that, effective immediately, every firearm that will be used during the production of the series would not take traditional ammunition or blanks of any sort.

'As of today, it is now policy on The Rookie that all gunfire on set will be Air Soft guns with CG muzzle flashes added in post. There will be no more "live" weapons on the show. The safety our cast and crew is too important. Any risk is too much risk.'

Hawley's memo concluded by noting that if crew members 'ever feel unsafe or witness anything that concerns you, please don't hesitate to report it.'

The crew of The Rookie has previously utilized CGI imagery to mimic muzzle flashes, although 'live' weapons have occasionally been used during outdoor filming.

In an email to crew members, the movie's production team confirmed that work on Rust has been suspended at least until the investigation is complete.

The team said it is working with law enforcement and is conducting its own internal safety review.

The production company is also offering grief counseling.

The sheriff's investigation continued Monday. The team said that it could not respond to comments made in news reports or on social media.

The email suggested that production could resume at some point.

'Although our hearts are broken, and it is hard to see beyond the horizon, this is, at the moment, a pause rather than an end,' the email read.

Gun that went off in Alec Baldwin's hands and claimed the life of Halyna Hutchins was used for off-set target practice by crew members and live ammo and blanks were stored together, sources say Alec Baldwin was wielding a vintage Colt pistol when it accidentally went off. It is not known who loaded the weapon and why it went off as a replacement crew was brought in the day of the incident (The gun pictured above is a vintage Colt pistol manufactured between 1873-92. While the exact model of the gun used is unknown, Rust is set in the 1880s) The gun that killed the cinematographer on the set of Alec Baldwin's Rust had been used for target practice by crew members, sources linked to the western film's production said. Multiple sources connected to the set of Rust told TMZ that the same Colt pistol that went off in Alec Baldwin's hands, killing Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza, had been used recreationally by crew members. The sources claim that some crew members would go off for target practice using real bullets, and some believe a live round from those practice sessions found its way onto the set. Another source told TMZ that live ammo and blanks were being stored in the same area on set, offering another possible explanation as to how a bullet was fired from Baldwin's Colt. A search warrant released Friday said that Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 24, had laid out three prop guns on a cart outside the filming location, and first assistant director Dave Halls grabbed the Colt from the cart and brought it inside to Baldwin, unaware that it was loaded with live rounds. 'Cold gun!' shouted Halls before handing the gun to Baldwin, using the phrase to signal to cast and crew that the gun was safe to fire for the scene, the warrant said. Seconds later, filming a scene inside an Old West-style church, Baldwin apparently aimed towards the camera and pulled the trigger, accidentally killing Hutchins as she filmed him, and injuring Souza, who stood behind her. Two production sources who previously worked with Gutierrez-Reed said this was not the first time she was involved in an incident on a movie set. The two sources told The Daily Beast that Hannah Gutierrez-Reed had allegedly given an 11-year-old actress a gun without checking it properly while on the set of the Nicholas Cage film, The Old Way. 'There were a couple times she was loading the blanks and doing it in a fashion that we thought was unsafe,' one of the sources said. Sources on the set of Rust said the incident that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins could be tied to the armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed 'She was a bit careless with the guns, waving it around every now and again.' Sources on the Rust set have said the fatal incident that killed Hutchins, 42, and injured Souza, 48, was a result of production failings from top to bottom. They added that assistant director Halls, who handed the gun to Baldwin and told him it was safe, should have checked the weapon. 'He's supposed to be our last line of defense and he failed us,' one of the sources on set said. 'He's the last person that's supposed to look at that firearm.' A Rust production source told The Daily Beast that there were at least two previous incidents of guns being accidentally discharged by other crewmember on set before Thursday's tragic incident. The source described Gutierrez-Reed as 'inexperienced and green.' Advertisement

Moments before the shooting, Baldwin was explaining how he was going to draw the revolver from his holster and where his arm would be positioned, court records show.

The actor had been told that the gun was safe to use for the rehearsal of a scene in which he was supposed to pull out the weapon while sitting in a church pew and point it at the camera, the records said.

Cameraman Reid Russell told a detective that he was unsure whether the weapon was checked before it was handed to Baldwin, and he did not know why the gun was fired.

Authorities said Friday that the assistant director, Dave Halls, had handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced 'cold gun,' indicating it was safe.

When asked about how Baldwin treated firearms on the set, Russell said the actor was safe, citing a previous instance when Baldwin made sure a child actor was not near him when a gun was being discharged.

The affidavit released Sunday also included statements by Souza, who was standing behind Hutchins and was wounded.

It detailed the moments before the shooting and showed that there was turmoil on the set the day of the shooting.

Several members of the camera crew walked off the production in a dispute over payment and lodging, Russell said, and he was left with a lot of work to do.

A distraught Alec Baldwin lingers in the parking lot outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office in Santa Fe, New Mexico, after he was questioned about a shooting on the set of the film Rust on the outskirts of Santa Fe on Thursday

People attend a vigil for late cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in Burbank, California on Sunday

The tragedy on the set of Rust raised fresh questions about workplace safety in Hollywood

Only one camera was available to shoot, and it had to be moved because the light had shifted and there was a shadow.

Souza said he was focused on how the scene would appear on camera.

He said he recalled hearing the phrase 'cold gun' before the shooting, the affidavit said.

He said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds.

After a lunch break, Souza said he was not sure if the firearm had been checked again.

Souza was looking over Hutchins' shoulder when he heard the gunshot, according to the affidavit.

On Sunday, a crew member who worked with Halls on another project said she had raised safety concerns about him in 2019.

Maggie Goll, a prop maker and licensed pyrotechnician, said in a statement that she filed an internal complaint with the executive producers of Hulu's Into the Dark series in 2019 over concerns about Halls' behavior on set.

Goll said in a phone interview Sunday that Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician lost consciousness on set.

Halls has not returned phone calls and email messages seeking comment.

David Halls is the Assistant Director of Rust, the Western movie Baldwin was acting in and producing when he accidentally killed Hutchins on Thursday and wounded director Joel Souza

Halls was working on the set of Freedom's Path in 2019 when the gun 'unexpectedly discharged'. He was fired then replaced. The movie has not been released yet

The fatal shooting and previous experiences point to larger safety issues that need to be addressed, Goll said, adding that crew member safety and well-being were top issues in recent contract negotiations between a union that represents film and TV workers and a major producers' group.

'This situation is not about Dave Halls. ... It's in no way one person's fault,' she said.

'It's a bigger conversation about safety on set and what we are trying to achieve with that culture.'

The film's chief electrician, Serge Svetnoy, blamed producers for Hutchins' death in an emotional Facebook post on Sunday.

Svetnoy said he had worked with Hutchins on multiple films and faulted 'negligence and unprofessionalism' among those handling weapons on the set. He said producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

Since the shooting, other production crews have stepped up safety measures.

Jeffrey Wright, who has worked on projects including the James Bond franchise and the upcoming movie The Batman, was acting with a weapon on the set of Westworld when he learned of the shooting Thursday at a New Mexico ranch.

'We were all pretty shocked. And it informed what we did from that moment on,' he said in an interview Sunday at the Newport Beach Film Festival.

'I don't recall ever being handed a weapon that was not cleared in front of me  meaning chamber open, barrel shown to me, light flashed inside the barrel to make sure that its cleared,' Wright said.

'Clearly that was a mismanaged set.'

Actor Ray Liotta agreed with Wright that the checks on firearms are usually extensive.

'They always  that I know of  they check it so you can see,' Liotta said.

'They give it to the person you're pointing the gun at. They do it to the producer. They show whoever is there that it doesn't work.'

Baldwin, who is known for his roles in 30 Rock and The Hunt for Red October and his impression of former President Donald Trump on Saturday Night Live, has described the killing as a 'tragic accident.'
Three Florida teenagers accused of killing a fellow high school student over rumors he'd had sex with one of the suspect's girlfriend have been charged with murder.

Dwight 'D.J.' Grant, 18, was stabbed in the neck with a small knife and later in the chest with a sword on October 17 in the stairwell of his apartment complex in Miramar, according to arrest affidavits for the three teens.

His body was found two days later in some bushes near the building.

Authorities said Andre Clements III, 17, planned the murder with his current girlfriend, Christie Rubee Parisien, 17, and Parisien's friend Jaslyn Smith, 16. All three were charged with first-degree murder, tampering with evidence and criminal conspiracy on Tuesday.

All three suspects are being charged as adults, according to the Broward State Attorneys Office, saying that if it were handled as a juvenile matter, the maximum sentence the suspects could receive would be three years in the system.

Investigators say Grant was lured to the crime scene by Parisien, who he had arranged to meet to have sex.

Clements III was angry that Grant had sex with an ex-girlfriend of his, according to the affidavit.

'Murder will definitely happen soon,' he texted one of the other suspects.

Dwight 'D.J.' Grant (pictured above), 18, was stabbed in the neck with a small knife and later in the chest with a sword on October 17 in the stairwell of his apartment complex in Miramar, according to arrest affidavits for the three teens

Andre Clements III (pictured) was angry that Grant had sex with an ex-girlfriend of his, according to the affidavit

Clements' current girlfriend, Christie Parisien (pictured above) helped lure Grant to the site of his eventual death in the stairwell of the apartment complex where he lived

The two suspects were assisted by a female friend of the 17-year-old girl, Jaslyn Smith

Clements then said he was upset because he had an 'emotional connection' to the ex-girlfriend.

Parisien agreed to help and then connected with Smith.

Clements also alleged that Grant had raped his female friend. Police in Miramar said they have found zero evidence of any sexual assault. The former girlfriend told authorities her relationship with Grant was consensual.

Parisien eventually lured Grant out to a stairwell. Clements and Smith attacked the 18-year-old and Parisien played lookout.

'You know who I am and why I'm here,' said Clements, who brought the knife and sword, to the victim. 'You know I have to kill you now.'

Grant and the three suspects all attended Miramar High School in South Florida

Images from the affidavit show that Clements, Parisien and Smith, who have been charged with murder, were caught on surveillance video

The affidavit includes photo evidence of Grant being attacked by Clements and Smith and of one of Parisien acting as a lookout

A local TV station catches a glimpse of the stairwell Grant was led to where he was eventually stabbed to death

Grant tried to run away but was held back, according to authorities. He was then stabbed in the neck with a knife.

At that point, Grant begged the suspects to 'end it for him,' according to the affidavit.

Clements then stabbed Grant in the chest with a sword. Grant's body wasn't found until October 19, two days after the killing.

Grant was discovered with a knife with a broken blade beside him, according to the affidavit.

Clements, Parisien are being charged with first-degree murder, evidence tampering and criminal conspiracy.

Police said that the three teens tried to get rid of Grant's body by throwing it over a railing and dragging it to some nearby bushes. One suspect tried to clean blood off the ground.

The attack was entirely caught on video surveillance. Police have yet to release the video.

Despite being charged as adults, The three teens are being held at the Broward Juvenile Intake Facility in Fort Lauderdale, according to records obtained by the Sun Sentinel.
A hiker who was lost on a Colorado mountain for more than 24 hours ignored calls from the search and rescue team because he didn't recognize the phone number.

The hiker was reported missing to Lake County Search and Rescue around 8pm on October 18 after he failed to return from their morning hike on Mount Elbert.

Search and rescuers were informed that the hiker had begun at the South Trailhead at 9am that morning but hadn't returned to base 11 hours later.

The team then called the hiker several times to try to locate him but never got a hold of him.

Rescue teams spent the evening searching for the missing man and continued the search through to the next day, only to learn the hiker - who was completely unaware anyone was looking for him - had returned home safely at 9.30am that morning, on October 19.

The hiker was reported missing around 8pm when he was overdue from their hike starting at the South Trailhead, one of the most popular trails of the five routes along the mountain

The hiker, who has not been named, told authorities that he'd lost trail as the sunset and continued to search for the trail overnight.

He eventually found a path and walked along several trails until he finally found the way back to his car around 9am.

Many on social media were baffled as to why the lost hiker ignored his phone for so long. Some poked fun at the stereotype of millennials being averse to talking on the phone.

'Say you are a millennial without saying you are a millennial,' @Vmigrator commented.

User @StevenMandrapa tweeted: '10 to 1 odds this was a millennial lol.'

Others questioned how the hiker got lost if he had cell service.

'How are you lost if your phone works??' @who_remains tweeted following up with 'Somebody lying.'

User @406ladypatriot mirrored the sentiment tweeting: 'If you have cell service you're not lost!!'

@gallerychapel tweeted: 'Suddenly Im not surprised this person got lost.'

But Lake County Search and Rescue came to their defense, said: 'Please remember that what seems like common sense in hindsight is not obvious to a subject in the moment when they are lost and panicking.

'Please keep your comments respectful.'

However, the team did urge hikers to pick up their cellphones if they found themselves in the same scenario.

'If youre overdue according to your itinerary, and you start getting repeated calls from an unknown number, please answer the phone,' Lake County SAR posted on Facebook

A hiker who got lost on Mount Elbert in Colorado for more than 24 hours ignored calls from the Lake County Search and Rescue team because he didn't recognize the phone number

'If youre overdue according to your itinerary, and you start getting repeated calls from an unknown number, please answer the phone; it may be a SAR team trying to confirm youre safe!'

It would have saved two teams of five and three rescue team members from spending hours scouring the mountainside after the hiker was reported lost on October 18.



Rescuers searched 'high probability' areas from 10pm to 3am before calling off the search that night.

They regrouped at 7am the following day at 'a new area where hikers typically lose the trail' until they learned that the hiker had returned safely.

Mount Elbert is Colorado's highest peak and the second highest peak in the lower 48 states. The mountain has five main routes to the peak, one of the two most popular is the South Trail.

The 5.8 mile route is listed as a 'relatively easy,' path by the Department of Agriculture Forest Service.
A shocking video shared to social media showed cosmetic surgeons dancing, singing and laughing as they thrust long metal cannulas in and out of an unconscious man during a liposuction.

The video was played during an episode of the ABC's Four Corners on Monday examining some of the practices and procedures of high-profile cosmetic surgeon Daniel Lanzer.

Dr Lanzer, a dermatologist who regularly appears on commercial TV to discuss cosmetic surgery, has built an audience of more than five million followers on TikTok and 300,000 on Instagram.

One of the most shocking scenes in the Four Corners investigation showed two surgeons thrusting cannulas in and out of an unconscious male patient during a liposuction procedure, while dancing to Dolly Parton's 'Jolene'

A Four Corners episode last night that examined some of the practices and procedures of high-profile cosmetic surgeon Dr Daniel Lanzer

One of the most shocking scenes in the Four Corners investigation with the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age showed two surgeons thrusting cannulas in and out of an unconscious male patient during a liposuction procedure, while dancing to Dolly Parton's 'Jolene'.

Another attendant dances next to the operating table while the woman filming the scene laughs hysterically.

The producers asked Dr Mark Ashton, Clinical Professor of Surgery at University of Melbourne and former president of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, to comment on the video,

'These two - I'm not even going to call them surgeons - these two gentlemen, are not even watching where the tip of the cannula is going,' he observed.

'It is dangerous, disrespectful. It is bewildering,

'If this was not true you'd think, ok, this can't be Australia. If you didn't show me these people, you'd think, oh, this can't be happening in Australia and here it is, you're showing me.

'Where have we gone so wrong in Australia that these two individuals think this is acceptable, think this is reasonable, think that this is fair game.'

The program said Dr Lanzer had reprimanded the staff members involved in the incident.

One video posted to social media showed Dr Lanzer talking to the camera while he moves a large cannula in and out of a patient. 'This is incredibly dangerous,' plastic surgeon Dr Mark Ashton said after viewing the video

Another video Dr Lanzer posted to social media shows him talking to the camera while he moves a large cannula in and out of a patient.

'In the four sentences I saw Dr Lanzer talk to the camera then, he didn't have any idea where the tip of that cannula was,' Dr Ashton said.

'You need to visually, directly look at where the tip of the cannula is, at all times. That's surgery 101 that you learn in the first week of training.

'This is incredibly dangerous.'

Two specialist plastic surgeons, Dr Craig Rubinstein and Dr Patrick Briggs, also weighed in on Dr Lanzer's method.

'One of the risks of liposuction is penetration through the abdomen into other organs, such as liver, kidney and even an aorta.

'To be using a cannula, not actually watching where the cannula is, is dangerous.'

Other former patients complained to the program about the lasting effects of the cosmetic work they had received at one of Dr Lanzer's clinics.

A nurse, Kathy Hubble, claimed she was diagnosed with a serious bacterial infection, cellulitis, after two procedures over two days at Dr Lanzer's Sydney clinic.

Four Corners played audio messages from Dr Lanzer to staff in which he stressed they were never to admit fault in the face of a complaint by a client.

'Never, ever, ever, not slightly ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever, ever admit to a patient that something's bad or wrong,' he said in the message.

'They'll use it against you 100 times for the rest of your life.

'Never, ever, ever, ever own up to anything.'

He also told staff not to send clients to a GP because it's 'the worst possible thing you can do  and it always creates problems.'

In an Instagram post yesterday Dr Lanzer said he would be 'forced to share the truth on every aspect of this attempt to defame me'

Dr Lanzer filmed a video response to the claims made in the program in which he claimed to have 'the highest standards of hygiene and safety.'

'I do not think that there's a surgeon in the world who could show a better safety record than I've done over the last 30 years,' he said.

'In my 30-year career, I've never had a single ruling or recommendation against me regarding my method of surgery or my patient care by any regulator.'

In an Instagram post yesterday Dr Lanzer said he would be 'forced to share the truth on every aspect of this attempt to defame me'.

'Its not going to be nice and goes against the core of my body. I have no choice but to spread the truth. Be patient and you will see all.'

He also addressed followers on Instagram in response to the program in which he said he was the victim of a 'turf war' that had been going on for a number of years.

'There has been a longstanding, one-sided, jealousy and financially related turf war between a group of surgeons called plastic surgeons and non-plastic surgeons,' he said.

'Theres a group of three plastic surgeons who have got together to try and defame me.

'Ive kept quiet all these years because I always said just focus on what youre doing but now theyre trying to go public, its given me no choice and Im going to have to reveal to Australia and the world the truth.

'Im going to show you some horrific, horrific results of one of those surgeons who says hes so great and puts me down.'

'I love you all, the truth will prevail. I'm smiling and laughing because I know the truth, so don't worry.'

Dr Lanzer promised to post a video response to the program and his detractors on Youtube within the next 24 hours.
Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has been described as 'deceptive in the extreme' for claiming that 'almost ten' people died in the January 6 riot.

Seven people are known to have perished during the insurrection and in its immediate aftermath.

Four were Trump supporters. One was shot by police as she tried to smash into Congress; another was trampled to death in the crowd; and two suffered medical emergencies.

Three more were police officers, with one dying after an altercation with protesters, and two more taking their own lives in the days and weeks after the riot.

Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a Congresswoman representing New York, tweeted on Sunday that there were 'almost ten' people killed in the January 6 riot. Seven deaths are associated with the insurrection: four Trump supporters and one police officer dying on the day, and two more officers taking their own lives in the immediate aftermath

Rioters are pictured on January 6 storming the Capitol after a 'Stop the Steal' rally held by Trump supporters

Thousands of Trump supporters descended on the Capitol on January 6 to protest the results of the election

Glenn Greenwald, a freelance journalist, tweeted in response to Ocasio-Cortez's Sunday statement: 'Claiming that there is "almost 10 dead" from the 1/6 riot is deceitful in the extreme.

'Four people died on 1/6: all Trump supporters.

'It's possible to connect a couple of the later police suicides to 1/6 if one stretches enough but this need to exaggerate 1/6 speaks for itself.'

He added: 'The lesson of 9/11 is - or should have been - that allowing politicians to deceitfully exaggerate domestic threats or exploit the propagandistic term "terrorism" to justify civil liberties assaults is dangerous in the extreme.

'Clearly many have forgotten this lesson.'

The four Trump supporters included Ashli Babbitt, 35, an Air Force veteran from Southern California, was shot and killed by a Capitol Police officer as she clambered through a broken window leading to the Speakers Lobby inside the Capitol.

Ashli Babbitt (left) and Roseanne Boyland were among four Trump supporters to die on January 6

Kevin Greeson, 55, was one of the Trump supporters who died, passing away from a heart attack

Rosanne Boyland, 34, of Kennesaw, Georgia, was trampled to death. Benjamin Philips, 50, the founder of a pro-Trump website called Trumparoo, died of a stroke while in Washington DC, while Kevin Greeson, 55, of Athens, Alabama, had a heart attack during the riot.

Brian Sicknick succumbed to his injuries while protecting the Capitol

The three officers included Brian Sicknick, 42, who was involved in trying to repel the protesters, then returned to his division office and collapsed. Investigators believe he may have been killed as a result of a reaction to bear spray or mace.

Jeffrey Smith, 35, was hit on the head with a metal pole and sunk into a deep depression following the riot, and shot himself on the way to work on January 15.

Howard Liebengood, 51, died by suicide on January 9.

Ocasio-Cortez was responding to a report in Rolling Stone magazine, published on Sunday, that said Congressional staff members met regularly with the rioters in advance of the insurrection.

The two sources for the Rolling Stone piece said seven Republican members of Congress either participated in the work or sent top staffers - Marjorie Taylor Greene, Paul Gosar, Lauren Boebert, Mo Brooks, Madison Cawthorn, Andy Biggs and Louie Gohmert.

Jeffrey Smith, who was hit in the head with a metal pipe on January 6, sunk into a deep depression and shot himself nine days after the riot

Howard Liebengood took his own life three days after the Capitol riot

Donald Trump's chief of staff, Mark Meadows, was also involved, the sources told the magazine.

The sources said they were cooperating with the House select committee set up to investigate the January 6 riot.

'Any member of Congress who helped plot a terrorist attack on our nations capitol must be expelled,' said Ocasio-Cortez.

'This was a terror attack. 138 injured, almost 10 dead.

'Those responsible remain a danger to our democracy, our country, and human life in the vicinity of our Capitol and beyond.'

Meadows has been subpoenaed by the January 6 panel.

The committee said he is, 'so far, engaging with the Select Committee.'

Another of Trump's most influential supporters, Steve Bannon, his former chief strategist, has ignored the committee's request.

On Thursday he was held in contempt of Congress.

He has insisted that he cannot testify before the committee while Trump exerts executive privilege.
Grace Tame has accused Scott Morrison and his office of being 'disingenuous and misleading' and engaging in 'careful spin' with their response to her claims of being snubbed over a key government plan to combat child sexual abuse.

Ms Tame, a high-profile sexual abuse survivor, claims she was 'blindsided' when asked by ABC News 24 on October 22 what would be in the National Strategy to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse because she hadn't been asked to help construct it.

'Surely we the people deserve politicians who are above gaslighting victim-survivors?' She Tweeted in her latest broadside directed at the PM.

Since being made Australian of the Year in January the 26-year-old, who was raped by her school teacher as a teen, has been a fierce activist for fellow sexual assault survivors - and critic of the prime minister.

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

'Surely we the people deserve politicians who are above gaslighting victim-survivors?' She Tweeted in her latest broadside directed at the PM

How Grace and the PM have fallen out January 25 - Scott Morrison announces Grace Tame, an outspoken advocate for survivors of sexual assault' as Australian of the Year. He presents her with the award at National Arboretum in Canberra. February 17 - Ms Tame offers public support to ex-Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins, who was allegedly raped at Canberra's Parliament House. March 30 - Ms Tame criticises the appointment of the new Commonwealth Assistant Minister for Women Amanda Stoker over her support for a men's rights activist. In the same post she accused Mr Morrison of being 'ignorant of the cultural issues at hand or [perpetuating them].' May 24 - Ms Tame told the Betoota Advocate Mr Morrison made a crass comment on stage when he gave her the Australian of the Year ceremony, which was 'gee I bet it felt good to get that out?' Mr Morrison confirmed this. In August and September - Ms Tame criticised Christian Porter's temporary promotion and the handling of his sacking. He was been accused of rape, allegations he denies. October 25 - Ms Tame accuses Ben Morton, assistant Minister to the PM of being 'disingenuous and misleading' and engaging in 'careful spin' over her claims she was not invited to help draft the National Strategy to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse. Advertisement

On Friday ABC presenter Ros Childs asked Ms Tame what would be in the influential plan, assuming she would be involved.

A visibly embarrassed Ms Tame admitted live before a national audience she wasn't involved in drafting the strategy.

But when the matter was put to Mr Morrison in Federal Parliament, he asked Ben Morton, the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister and Cabinet, to answer.

Mr Morton detailed meetings and conversations with Ms Tame about the strategy in March, May and June.

On Friday, Mr Morrison's office sent Daily Mail Australia an email outlining those dates and meetings.

But Ms Tame responded fiercely to Mr Morton's comments, dissecting his claims in a long thread comprising of 10 Tweets.

'I was genuinely blindsided on Friday,' she clarified.

'To be absolutely clear, last Friday 22/10 I was asked if I'd been involved in the strategy's drafting live on air. I had not.

'I have not written, seen or approved any official documents. They didn't proactively engage me. To suggest otherwise is disingenuous and misleading.

'Ben finished his answer today by saying "victim-survivors deserve to be above politics". A defence of us? Or a veiled threat?

'Surely we the people deserve politicians who are above gaslighting victim-survivors.

'[Mr Morton's answer] simultaneously made the government look like it values my input very highly and made me look uncooperative.'

Ms Tame claimed at least two of the meetings Mr Morton referred to were not 'formal strategy consultation/drafting' sessions.

One 'meeting', she said was actually an 'informal introduction' to Rebekah Kilpatrick from the National Office of Child Safety over breakfast.

Minister Assisting the Prime Minister and Cabinet Ben Morton contradicted Grace Tame's claim she was not invited to help draft the national child sexual abuse prevention plan

Another was a phone call with Mr Morton 'to discuss budget figures that had already been decided, and my goals for law reform'.

When the Indigenous organisation The Healing Foundation sought Ms Tame's contribution, it was told by a 'a government-funded source' that her involvement didn't 'align' with it.

At another meeting in June, Ms Tame says Mr Morton and Ms Kilpatrick met with her and her partner where 'we discussed my hopes for specific legislative reforms. We reviewed a table of legal definitions'.
Correction facility in NSW closed its doors last year, will fetch at least $10 million

If the walls could talk at Berrima prison, the sordid stories from yesteryear would terrify many.

But those shady tales from the past are now purely for the history books, with the historic jail in the southern highlands of NSW officially up for sale.

The heritage-listed site previously housed a number of high profile inmates, including John Lynch, one of Australia's first serial killers.

Others who called Berrima home includes corrupt cop Roger Rogerson, celebrity drug dealer Richard Buttrose and disgraced former Labor minister Eddie Obeid.

Berrima, which was built in the 1830s by convicts, has also been the scene of numerous daring prison breaks, a handful of guards were killed while on duty and the facility even incarcerated a number of bushrangers.

Berimma jail, built in the 1830s by convicts, is up for sale, with the asking price in the vicinity of $10 million

The correction facility in the NSW southern highlands has housed a number of high profile criminals

Crooked policeman Roger Rogerson (pictured) had a stint at the jail in the mid 1990s for hiding money in a series of bank accounts

Fast forward to 2021 and the correctional centre is set to undergo a radical transformation as a luxury hotel or envied watering hole.

Frank Oliveri, a commercial real estate agent at Colliers, believes the opportunities are endless.

'It could end up a great Airbnb.... or would make a great pub, could be a club, or a restaurant,' he told Nine News.

Serial killer Lynch, who took the lives of ten people between 1836 and 1842, was hung at the prison's gallows for his grisly crimes.

Five other prisoners also met the same fate, with rumours of ghosts haunting the facility still re-told by many locals.

Bent policeman Rogerson served three years at the facility in the 1990s, while Obeid, who was recently again jailed, worked in the prison library at Berrima penning his memoirs.

The prison was formally closed last year, with the site currently deserted.

Eric Savage from the Berrima Residents Association said the prospective owners must 'respect the history' which accompanies the site.

The property will need to be rezoned and the buyer will need to maintain certain heritage features, including the external walls and gates.

Expressions of interest are now open, with the asking price for a slice of Australian history 'between the $5 and $10 million dollar mark.'

Corrupt former Labor minister Eddie Obeid (pictured) spent his time at Berrima working on his memoirs in the library

The infamous jail also housed John Lynch, one of Australia's first serial killers, after he killed 10 people
A gunman who opened fire at an Idaho mall killing two and injuring four, including a cop, has been left in critical condition after a police shootout.

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee said at a news conference the shooting was reported about 1:50 p.m. on Monday - as well as a report that one person was 'shot and down' at that time.

When the officers arrived, they spotted someone who matched the description of the suspect.

'There was an exchange of gunfire that ensued shortly thereafter, resulting in the officer's injury, as well as the suspect being taken into custody,' Lee said. Investigators believe there was only one shooter, and there is no ongoing danger to the public, he said.

Police collect evidence in a parking lot near Dave and Busters near the Boise Towne Square shopping mall where a shooting occurred Monday

Video recorded by shoppers who were at the mall at the time of the shooting, shows people running from exit doors as shots being fired and screams can be heard

Police on Monday evening said in a news release that the suspect was in critical condition at a hospital and that the officer who was hurt had been treated and released.

Authorities didnt release any other information about the victims or the suspect, saying the investigation was ongoing.

'We really cannot at this time speak to any motivation behind it,' Lee said.

The Boise Towne Square shopping mall is the citys largest mall.

'I cannot stress enough how traumatic this event is for the community at large, as well as for those that were witnesses, or are the families of those involved or involved themselves,' Lee said.

After the shooting, several witnesses stood in the rain outside the entrance to Macy's - one of five large department stores at the mall - waiting to be interviewed by police or told they could leave.

Patrol cars from several agencies, ambulances and fire trucks filled a section of the mall parking lot. Officers from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were assisting in the investigation.

A mall shooting in Idaho left two dead and six, including a police officer, injured on Monday

Eric Balderas, an employee at a department store at the Boise Towne Square shopping mall, rests on a police vehicle after falling while evacuating the mall during the shooting

People stand behind a car with shattered glass near the scene of the shooting

About a quarter of a mile away, officers closed part of a road near a busy intersection so they could investigate a second crime scene related to the shooting incident. Officers at the second crime scene declined to answer questions.

Cheri Gypin, of Boise, was in the mall with a friend where they walk for an hour three or four times a week. She said she heard several large bangs, but thought something had fallen from the ceiling.

Then about 60 people, including families pushing strollers, came running at them, some of them shouting that there was an active shooter.

'My friend was trying to process it,' said Gypin, 60. 'I just looked at her and said, `Weve got to run. So we just ran and kept running until we got to the outer perimeter of the parking lot.'

They made their way back to their car, where police told the crowd of people who had fled the mall to leave the parking area.

Investigators were working with hospital officials to notify the family members of those injured and killed in the shooting, Lee said.

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean asked members of the public and the news media to give the victims and their families privacy as they deal with the trauma of the shooting. She thanked the law enforcement officers, first responders and others she said worked to keep the community safe.

'Countless people found themselves in a situation they never would have or should have expected,' McLean said, lauding the shopkeepers and others for reacting 'so quickly to take care of folks that were there. You showed in a tough and chaotic moment how much you care and what you're willing to do to support and care for strangers.'

Law enforcement officers collect evidence at the Boise Towne Square shopping mall

Boise Towne Square Mall is the city's biggest mall, with more than 153 stores

Police said no further information about the victims will be released at this time.

The shooter reportedly fired shots both inside and outside of the mall.

Boise Towne Square Mall is the city's biggest mall, with more than 153 stores. At the mall, police cars and ambulances could be seen, as victims were brought outside for assistance.

Video recorded by shoppers who were at the mall at the time of the shooting, shows people running from exit doors as shots being fired and screams can be heard.

North and Southbound lanes on Milwaukee Street between Emerald and Franklin roads were closed.

Police denied rumors that there were four shooters waiting to attack in other areas of the city.

An officer from the Ada County Sheriff's Office walks from the scene of a shooting, where two people were killed and six including a police officer were injured

People walk in a parking as the mall was evacuated by law enforcement after the shooting

Reports of people locked in the mall during the shooting while police handled the situation emerged on social media

'My wife is locked in a storeroom at the Boise Mall. There were multiple gun shots. People running everywhere,' shared Twitter user @BoiseBetter

Boise Towne Square Mall in Idaho, where a shooting that left two dead and five injured took place on Monday

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee said police were working on notifying families of the victims before releasing their names

'This is an ongoing investigation. We really, at this time, can not see any motivation behind it,' Chief Lee said

People trapped inside the mall during the shooting described 'multiple gun shots' and 'people running everywhere.'

Around 8pm local time, people who had left their cars inside the mall's parking lot after being evacuated were allowed inside to retrieve them.

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee provided an update on the shooting to the media.

Lee said police were working on notifying families of the victims before releasing their names.

A county task force is assisting the investigation.

Law enforcement officers collect evidence near the scene of a shooting

Law enforcement officers enter the scene of a shooting, where two people were killed and six including a police officer were injured

Police close off a street outside a shopping mall after a shooting in Boise, Idaho on Monday, October 25
A British soldier killed by an elephant charge on an anti-poaching operation was 'deprived of one of the main protective measures' after a ban on the use of warning shots, a coroner has concluded.

Guardsman Mathew Talbot of the 1st Battalion the Coldstream Guards was fatally injured in the incident in Liwonde National Park in Malawi on May 5, 2019.

A week-long inquest into the Walsall-born soldier's death at Oxford Coroner's Court, concluding on Monday, heard evidence of how warning shots against dangerous game had been banned, under the Army's rules of engagement.

After hearing evidence, the senior coroner, Darren Salter, said the reasons for this prohibition were 'still not entirely clear'.

A British soldier killed by an elephant charge on an anti-poaching operation was 'deprived of one of the main protective measures' after a ban on the use of warning shots, a coroner has concluded. Guardsman Mathew Talbot of the 1st Battalion the Coldstream Guards was fatally injured in the incident in Liwonde National Park in Malawi on May 5, 2019

He was told the use of force rules had since been changed, allowing warning shots on anti-poaching operations.

The 22-year-old, of Great Barr, West Midlands, suffered fatal chest and soft tissue injuries while on day three of an eight-day patrol.

Guardsman Talbot, who 'loved the Army', was part of a five-man mixed Malawian and British group on his first operational tour when he was attacked.

His parents, Steve and Michelle Talbot, said their son was 'badly let down by' Army planners, adding that 'had the right things been put in place' he may have survived.

A Ministry of Defence (MOD) service inquiry, published in October last year and shared with the inquest, concluded there had been several failings and made 30 recommendations.

A week-long inquest into the Walsall-born soldier's death at Oxford Coroner's Court, concluding on Monday, heard evidence of how warning shots against dangerous game had been banned, under the Army's rules of engagement

The 22-year-old, of Great Barr, West Midlands, suffered fatal chest and soft tissue injuries while on day three of an eight-day patrol. Above: Soldiers from the Coldstream Guards are pictured in Malawi in April

The coroner said the availability of a person medically qualified to insert a chest drain to treat Guardsman Talbot and the presence of a med-evac helicopter 'may have led to Mathew's survival'.

He said evidence had been heard about an Army risk assessment, stating that casualties should reach hospital within four hours of an incident, known as the medical timeline.

That included an 'overly optimistic assessment of the capability of the available Land Rover', to be used to move any casualties.

The coroner said the 'underestimate of the impact of an attack by dangerous game and the length of time to move the patient by road, meant the (medical) timeline was not achievable'.

Turning to three 'contributory causes' to the death, also borne out in the service inquiry, he said: 'Firstly, it was known from two previous deployment patrols... elephant grass should be avoided.

Guardsman Talbot was killed by an African elephant which would have looked like the one above (file photo)

His parents, Steve and Michelle Talbot, said their son was 'badly let down by' Army planners, adding that 'had the right things been put in place' he may have survived

Guardsman Talbot suffered a cardiac arrest and died more than four hours after the incident

'This should have been made clearer, particularly when the helicopter was unavailable.

'Secondly, the wrong immediate actions for an elephant attack; namely climbing a tree, taken in the heat of the moment.'

He added: 'I think, as has been recognised, there should have been refresher training and reinforcement of what the correct actions were to be taken when faced by an elephant attack.'

Turning to the third factor, the use of warning shots, he said: 'To be honest, I am still not entirely clear why they were not permitted.

'I've heard reasons they weren't permitted - but those reasons don't seem terribly convincing.

'But the result of that is Mathew and his fellow soldiers were deprived of one of the main protective measures.

'Warning shots were known to be effective (on a previous operation), but I would have thought actually that's something which is fairly obvious.'

He added, 'warning shots appear to have been effective afterwards', as the elephants were scared off by the African park rangers using their guns.

Guardsman Talbot and his patrol were navigating through a six-and-a-half-foot-high elephant grass when they spotted three elephants 100 feet away

Mathew Talbot with girlfriend Olivia. The coroner found there was initial 'highly commendable' lifesaving treatment in the field, before the injured soldier was stretchered to a Land Rover, which set off for the park's gates

Mr Salter said: 'I note actually in terms of contributory causes, those three things; patrolling in elephant grass, the wrong immediate actions, and the prohibition of warning shots are essentially the three contributory causes identified by the service inquiry.'

Guardsman Talbot and his patrol were navigating through a six-and-a-half-foot-high elephant grass when they spotted three elephants 100 feet away.

As they tried to backtrack, the soldier was injured when another elephant, unseen, charged the patrol from the side.

The British Army sergeant commanding the group climbed a tree but as Guardsman Talbot tried to do the same he 'was caught by the charging elephant', the coroner found.

Progress was slow over the rough terrain and Guardsman Talbot suffered a cardiac arrest and died more than four hours after the incident - the hospital still two hours' drive away. Above: Guardsman Talbot with his Malawian colleagues

'He was knocked and thrown into the air and then injured by the elephant's tusks while on the ground,' added Mr Salter.

The coroner found there was initial 'highly commendable' lifesaving treatment in the field, before the injured soldier was stretchered to a Land Rover, which set off for the park's gates.

However, progress was slow over the rough terrain and Guardsman Talbot suffered a cardiac arrest and died more than four hours after the incident - the hospital still two hours' drive away.

In September 2019 the Duke of Sussex honoured the sacrifice of Guardsman Talbot by laying a wreath at a memorial during a visit to the national park

'If Guardsman Talbot had reached hospital within four hours of sustaining injuries, it is likely he would have survived,' Mr Salter said.

After delivering a narrative conclusion, Mr Salter said: 'It is right to recognise the task that Mathew was engaged upon.

'A task he himself considered very important.

'Indeed I was struck, and recall the statement where he said it was a combination of being a soldier and David Attenborough, and that did strike a chord.'

In September 2019 the Duke of Sussex honoured the sacrifice of Guardsman Talbot by laying a wreath at a memorial during a visit to the national park.
A traffic controller has been killed in a suspected hit and run involving a stolen car as a manhunt is launched to find the driver.

A 30-year-old road worker was killed when a car allegedly ploughed into him while stationed on the Bruce Highway in Mackay, Queensland on Tuesday morning.

Witnesses performed CPR on the man and emergency services were called to the scene on Ron Camm Bridge but he was unable to be saved.

A friend and former colleague of the man told Daily Mail Australia his mother was extremely close with the 30-year-old and she is 'broken'.

'I worked with him on that site and many other sites, he worked with on night shift and just happened to be my mum's boss,' John Walker said.

'My mum is broken... we as a family knew him very well.'

A traffic controller has been killed in a suspected hit and run involving a stolen car as a manhunt is launched to find the driver

The car allegedly involved in the incident was found 10 kilometres away but the driver was nowhere to be seen.

Police have deployed a team including sniffer dogs to search for the driver of the vehicle after it was left abandoned.

Friend of the victim Mr Walker said he regularly worked in the area and was well known to locals.

'He was a great guy, he always tried his best, brilliant at work an gave his time up to let other workers get a break or something,' he told Daily Mail Australia.

'He will be sorely missed.'

The north lane of the Bruce Highway on the Ron Camm Bridge has been closed for all traffic as police continue their investigation.

Queensland Traffic have told people to expect delays in the area and make alternative plans for travel.
Residents in Santa Barbara were told to shelter-in-place due to potential 'life-threatening flooding' after heavy rains battered areas already ravaged by wildfires.

Alisal Fire broke out in the California county on October 11 and tore through 17,000 acres of land before it was almost completely extinguished, at 97 per cent contained, on Sunday.

The burn scar is more susceptible to flash floods and mudslides after heavy rain and as storms hit the West Coast on the weekend, residents were ordered to evacuate.

By 11.30am Monday, the evacuation order was changed to a shelter-in-place, warning of 'life-threatening flooding and debris'.

Residents were instructed to stay inside and 'go to the innermost room in their home or to higher ground such as a second floor.'

Residents in Santa Barbara were issued a shelter-in-place warning due to potential 'life-threatening flooding and debris' in the burn areas from the Alisal Fire on Monday morning (Pictured: Cleanup crews and local residents help remove a fallen tree on a roadway on Monday, October 25 in the aftermath of a large storm that hit the Bay Area over the weekend)

California has been hit with back-to-back bomb cyclones drenching most of the West coast in torrential rains beginning late last week and forecasted to last through this week (Pictured: Fog and rain make driving the Interstate 5 freeway in the San Fernando Valley treacherous on Monday, October 25)

The area is highly susceptible to flooding after wildfires broke out in the area blocking the ground from absorbing water (Pictured: A vehicle negotiates standing water along Riverside drive in Toluca Lake, California on Monday, October 25)

Nearly 300 residences in Refugio Canyon and other parts of the Gaviota coast were impacted by the evacuation warning (Pictured: Vehicles make their way through a flooded area of High Street near Interstate 880 as rain falls in Oakland on Sunday, October 24)

The Pacific Northwest and Central California were just hit by its first storm on Thursday and Friday and the second on Saturday night (Pictured: Workers try to divert water into drains as rain pours down on Tuesday, October 24)

The shelter-in-place order has since been dropped.

Burn scars block the ground from absorbing water leading to an increased potential for flooding. As the water levels rise, it can create erosion and collect large amounts of ash, sand, silt, rocks, and burned vegetation.

The strength of the rushing waters along with the debris that it picks up can cause major destruction to the landscape and the infrastructure.

Parts of the Alisal Fire burn area were issued to evacuate the area by noon on Sunday. The Santa Barbara County Search & Rescue Team spent Sunday afternoon going door to door personally urging residents to leave.

Nearly 300 residences in Refugio Canyon and other parts of the Gaviota coast impacted by the wildfire were impacted by the evacuation order.

Santa Barbara City Fire Department inspected the area on Monday checking for signs of post-fire flooding issues but Battalion Chief Jim McCoy told NoozHawk that no damage was reported.

Firefighters did find one man who needed to be rescued from the flood waters in Mission Creek.

The unidentified man was underneath the roadway when the water rose and trapped him, he told firefighters. He was forced to cling onto vines and roots until he could be saved.

'He was holding onto that vine cluster for an hour is what he said, yelling for help and finally somebody heard him,' McCoy said.

The man was rescued when firefighters used a rope system to get him a flotation device.

Parts of Santa Barbra County was ordered to evacuate the area by Sunday at noon

Both the evacuation and shelter-in-place warnings expired on Monday afternoon (Pictured: Rain falls in Refugio Canyon Monday morning as runoff begins to fill the creek on Monday, October 25)

The area was a high-risk location for flooding due to the burn scars from the Alisal Fire that ravaged through area for the past few weeks (Pictured: A road closed sign at Refugio Road near the 101 where much of the Alisal Fire raged on Monday, October 25)

'He said he wasnt hurt but he was very cold and very tired,' McCoy explained.

The heavy rainfall came as back-to-back bomb cyclones were forecasted to create atmospheric rivers. Atmospheric rivers are long narrow regions of moisture in the atmosphere 'like rivers in the sky' that release rain or snow to the earth, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

A storm is considered a bomb cyclone when its minimum air pressure drops 24 millibars or more within 24 hours; this next storm could decrease by 50 millibars potentially becoming a 'double bomb.'

The Pacific Northwest and Central California were just hit by the first atmospheric river Thursday and Friday.

The Central California area has been ravaged by extreme weather in recent years. The Alisal Fire broke out in the area on October 11 and was 97% contained as of Sunday night.

Fire crews scrambled to save Ronald Reagans ranch retreat and Brad Pitt's $5.5million California beach house when the fires first spread.

The Alisal Fire charred more than 15,360 acres (24 square miles) of dense chaparral in the Santa Ynez Mountains west of Santa Barbara.

While the scenic region along the Pacific shoreline is lightly populated, the blaze was a threat to more than 100 homes, ranches and other buildings, fire officials said.

The area hadn't burned since 1955, according to the conservative youth organization.

California wildfires have scorched nearly 3,900 square miles (10,101 square kilometers) this year and destroyed more than 3,600 homes, businesses and other structures, according to the state Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

A historic drought in the West tied to climate change is making wildfires harder to fight. It has killed millions of trees in California alone. Scientists say climate change has made the West warmer and drier in the past 30 years and will continue to make weather more extreme and wildfires more frequent and destructive.
A mother who died from Covid-19 after spending ten days in an induced coma has been remembered as an 'amazing friend' who always helped those in need.

Helena Sykes, 55, and her son Mounir Merai, 17, caught the virus four weeks ago while Melbourne was in the grips of a Delta outbreak during the city's sixth lockdown.

The pair had made plans to get the Covid-19 vaccine but were both yet to receive their first dose.

As her condition deteriorated she was rushed to hospital, but she sadly lost her battle with the disease during the early hours of Sunday morning.

'She was an amazing mother and a great friend who would always help others and fulfil their needs and support them,' Mounir told Daily Mail Australia.

'She cared for me and always put me first before anything.'

Helena Sykes, 55, (pictured) died at 4.30am on Sunday morning in a Melbourne hospital after a five-week battle with Covid-19

Mounir had been living alone with mother in a public housing unit in Princes Hill after his parents separated amicably when he was a child.

After contracting the virus, his coughing attacks became so severe the pair called an ambulance - but when it arrived, paramedics realised his mother was seriously ill and instead took her to hospital.

She was soon placed into the ICU unit but after 10 days her body could no longer fight - and doctors made the devastating call to Mounir's dad Frank at 4.30am Sunday to say she had passed away.

Mounir recalled the last few hours he spent with his mother in hospital before she died in a heartbreaking post on Facebook.

'I spent my last few hours with her at 11:00pm to 3:00am and it was hardest challenge I've ever had to face,' he wrote.

'While my mum was in her bed I told her "I love her so much" and how much she meant to me as a mother and to others as an amazing friend.

'After I told her this there were tears in her eyes.

'[Mum] you will always be in my heart words can't describe the pain I'm going through right now I wish we were able to talk one more time.

'We will meet in heaven again mum.'

Mounir Merai wants his mother remembered as 'an amazing mother' and someone who 'would always help people in need'

The North Carlton community has rallied around the Year 11 student as he faces daunting task of a future without his mother and finishing high school.

His school Princes Hill Secondary College and local community organisation Railway House have set up a GoFundMe page to help support Mounir financially and help him and his father Frank cover the costs of Ms Sykes funeral.

The funds will go towards Mounir's living expenses over the next few months, including rent, bills, food, school fees, and other costs, until other housing arrangements can be made.

'Please get vaccinated. I want people to get vaccinated so they do not have to go through the pain I am going through.'

The fundraiser has already surpassed its $8000 goal, with more than $15,000 raised within the first 18 hours after it was launched on Monday.

Born in France, Ms Sykes moved to Perth when she was three, later settling in Melbourne where she opened a jewellery store and had Mounir and his older brother Jay.

After they were born, she closed the shop to focus on raising her two sons before suffering major injuries in later years that prevented her from returning to the workforce.

Mounir's brother, who lived with a disability, tragically passed away as a young adult, with his mother's death leaving him and his Syrian-born father without any other relatives in Australia.

Ms Sykes, a French national, migrated to Australia as a child and grew up in Perth

Tributes have begun pouring in online for Ms Sykes from loved ones and relatives abroad, who have remembered her as a 'passionate mother' and 'diamond'.

Frank and Mounir, who have now had Covid vaccines, are urging others to take the public health crisis seriously and roll up their sleeves.

'Coronavirus is serious. It is deadly - and it is the biggest health emergency we have faced since we have been alive,' Mounir said.

'Please get vaccinated. I want people to get vaccinated so they do not have to go through the pain I am going through.'

Mounir reminded others to value every minute with they spend with loved ones and thanks those who had offered him support during this difficult time.

'Please always appreciate your loved ones and don't take anything for granted because life is short.

'You don't know how much you need your loved ones until they're gone.'
The Biden administration is reportedly in talks to appoint Kim Wyman, a Republican secretary of state who challenged former President Trump's false claims of fraud, to lead efforts to protect elections from interference.

It would make Wyman, 59, one of the most senior GOP appointments in the administration.

And it would propel her into a prominent position working with election officials around the country at a time when much of her own party has sown doubt about voting integrity.

Federal officials have spent weeks in talks with Wyman, Washington state's secretary of state, to become the election security lead for the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, according to CNN.

As the most senior official in charge of Washington state's 2020 election, she repeatedly denied Trump's claims that mail-in voting could be abused and pushed back on the idea that increasingly accessibility increased the risk of fraud.

The Biden administration is reportedly in talks with Kim Wyman, the Republican secretary of state in Washington state, to appoint her to a key election security role at the Department of Homeland Security

Wyman would be one of the most senior Republicans to join the Biden administration. She repeatedly hit back at Trump's false claims about election fraud during the past two years

'In this day and age, restricting or hindering voter access is inexcusable, and falling short of our commitment to ensuring our elections are safe, secure and accurate is irresponsible,' she wrote for MarketWatch last year.

'Voters must have options this fall, and they deserve to feel confident about the integrity of our elections. One of those options is voting by mail.'

And in an interview with CNN in May, she denounced Arizona's Republican audit of its presidential results for not being transparent.

'What we could see, you know, down the road is whatever political party is in charge of a state legislature, if they don't like the outcome of an election, then let's just go ahead and make up an audit, make up a process, make up some sort of review, and the public will not be well served and the public will have trouble being -- having any confidence in those results,' she said.

Attitudes towards elections have emerged as a fault line in U.S. politics, as Republican-led states try to tighten access in the name of improved security, while Democrats seek new federal protections that they say are crucial to protect the rights of minorities

Wyman's new role would mean she acted as federal liaison to state and local officials as they protect voters from disinformation campaigns and secure vital infrastructure.

Her allies see that as a natural progression for someone who has spent 28 years running elections - first as a county elections manager and then in her statewide position.

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, right, looks on as Sec. of State Kim Wyman, left, talks to reporters about measures the state will take to ensure secure voting in 2018 elections

Her independence has made her that rare thing in West Coast politics: a Republican who can triumph in statewide elections.

Last year she won a third term as secretary of state.

She did it by outperforming Trump, winning 53.5 percent of the statewide vote to the then president's 38.5 percent.

That has led some pundits to say she is well positioned to run for governor.

Cornell Clayton, the director of Washington State University's Thomas Foley Institute for Public Policy and Public Service, told the Washington news site Crosscut that said Wyman saw her role as nonpartisan.

'Shes out there on national television disagreeing with Donald Trump,' he said soon after she was reelected.

'Thats one of the things that signaled she sees her role as nonpartisan, as being a neutrally competent administrator.'
A former St George banker accused of serious and repeated fraud totaling at least $590,000 sobbed as she was granted bail to return home to her newborn twin daughters and toddler son.

Sara Daizli was granted strict bail in the NSW Supreme Court on Tuesday, three weeks after she was arrested over 127 fraud related offences.

The 30-year-old gave birth to premature twins three weeks before her arrest, and was clearly emotional when confronted with the reality of them growing up without her.

The mother-of-four, who appeared via video link from Silverwater jail in her prison greens, wiped away tears the moment her lawyer David Dalton mentioned the twins.

She sobbed as Mr Dalton told the court her two-year-old was 'suffering terribly' in her absence, while custody for her eldest son was temporarily granted to his biological father.

Daizli appeared downcast throughout the proceedings, frequently putting her head in her hands and wiping tears from her cheeks

She sobbed as Mr Dalton told the court her two-year-old was 'suffering terribly' in her absence, while custody for her eldest son was temporarily granted to his biological father

Daizli's husband, who is unable to work while he cares for their three children, is convicted drug dealer David Sukkar, who was previously sentenced to more than 20 years in prison in Western Australia.

Sukkar is on parole for 'very serious' drug importation matters that date back several years, and there was some confusion in court on Tuesday as to where he was living.

The court heard Sukkar is struggling to manage the three children alone and is 'in a traumatic state'.

'The two-year-old is very upset... it's having detrimental effect on his wellbeing,' the court heard.

Sukkar provided an affidavit to the court detailing how difficult it is to raise the three children without their mother, who was the primary carer before her arrest on October 7.

Daizli's husband David Sukkar (pictured centre together) is on parole for separate 'very serious' drug importation matters that date back several years, and there was some confusion in court on Tuesday as to where he was living

Sara Daizli has spent the last three weeks in Silverwater prison accused of 127 fraud related offences

Justice Julia Lonergan expressed concerns Daizli could commit serious offences if she were granted bail, given some of the charges relate to matters that allegedly took place while she was under court orders.

The crown opposed bail on the basis of Daizli's 'audacious' alleged offending.

Ultimately, Justice Lonergan determined Daizli's personal circumstances - and low risk of trying to flee - strong enough reasoning to grant bail.

Three separate sureties were posted - a $1million cash sum from her brother-in-law, $50,000 from a friend and the deed to an apartment the couple own in Liverpool worth approximately $550,000.

Daizli will be required to report to Sutherland police station daily, and must appear in person at her next court date in November.

'She wishes to be able to feed, attend and bond with those now five week old baby daughters,' Justice Lonergan said. 'It's a particularly pressing combination of circumstances.'

Daizli has indicated she will defend the charges, and a trial date could be as far away as late 2023.

The court heard even if she were to be found guilty of just half the charges, she would likely face a custodial sentence.

'It's not everything that it seems,' Mr Dalton said in relation to the strength of the crown case.

'[Daizli] can justify from legitimate sources all the funds that have gone through her accounts in relation to the original allegations.'

Daizli appeared downcast throughout the proceedings, frequently putting her head in her hands and wiping tears from her cheeks.

The mother-of-four is facing a total of 127 fraud-related offences, including 72 counts of possession of false document to obtain financial advantage and 26 counts of possessing information to commit an indictable offence.

Other charges include dealing with identity info to commit, an indictable offence, dishonestly obtain financial advantage by deception, knowingly deal with proceeds of crime intent to conceal and knowingly direct activities of criminal group.

Police will allege in court Daizli used fraudulent documentation to submit false loan applications and launder money to the value of $550,000.

Ultimately, Justice Lonergan determined Daizli's personal circumstances - and low risk of trying to flee - strong enough reasoning to grant bail

Daizli was first arrested in December 2020 (pictured) after a seven month investigation

Three men were also arrested along with Daizli in early October, when police seized $400,000 cash, documents and electronic items.

A Heckenberg man, 27, was charged with 40 offences while a second man, 37, from nearby Liverpool was hit with 34 offences.

Police will allege both men used their employment as accountants to submit fraudulent tax documents on behalf of the syndicate for a financial gain.

A man, 53, from Kangaroo Point was charged with 33 offences.

Police will allege the former bank manager facilitated the use of fraudulent documentation submitted by the syndicate to obtain loans.

Daizli has indicated she will defend the charges, and a trial date could be as far away as late 2023

Financial Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Linda Howlett, said investigations into the alleged syndicate's activities uncovered a raft of fraud offences

Financial Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent Linda Howlett, said investigations into the alleged syndicate's activities uncovered a raft of fraud offences.

'Forensic analysis of items previously seized by Corporate Corruption Team detectives has led to the identification of further fraud-related offences allegedly committed by members of this syndicate,' Det Supt Howlett said.

'Police will allege the majority of these offences were coordinated by the Sutherland woman, and that she was assisted by other members of the syndicate.

'This type of [alleged] fraudulent activity is complex, well planned and salacious; particularly when you consider those allegedly involved in this fraud betrayed the trust of their customers and employers.

'Investigators will now be thoroughly examining the documentation and other items seized today to ensure any further victims or offences are identified.'

Investigation into the alleged syndicate continue as strike force investigators urge anyone with information to come forward and contact police.

Police will allege in court Daizli (pictured during her arrest) used fraudulent documentation to submit false loan applications and launder money to the value of $550,000
A Miami school which had planned to introduce a quarantine policy forcing students to take a month off after receiving a dose of COVID-19 vaccine, has now abandoned the idea.

School officials at the $30,000-a-year private school, Centner Academy, feared pupils who received the vaccine would infect unvaccinated students.

The school's Chief Operating Officer, Bianca Erickson informed parents of the bizarre policy by letter: 'Because of the potential impact on other students and our school community, vaccinated students will need to stay at home for 30 days post-vaccination for each dose and booster they receive.'

But the school, threatened with a cut in state funding of between $6,500 and $7,400 per student, should they push ahead with the policy, has now scrapped the plan.

Leila and David Centner, pictured, co-founded the school. The pair wrote to earlier in the year staff that vaccinated employees would no longer be allowed to work directly with students

Centner Academy in Miami, pictured, has told COVID-19 vaccinated teachers to stay away from students because they 'may transmit something' to them

Florida's Department of Education wrote to the school to make their position clear.

'Recently it has come to our attention that your schools may employ attendance policies which require parents of recently vaccinated students to quarantine their children for unreasonable, unnecessary and unduly burdensome amount of time before returning for in-person instruction,' the Florida Department of Education's letter to Centner Academy said.

'Should our investigation reveal that your schools' policies fail to comport with these lawful rights and obligations, understand that the action that follows  up to and including revocation of your schools' scholarship eligibility and funding  will be both swift and decisive.'

CEO Erickson hastily penned a response back to the Florida Department of Education on Friday stating explaining the schools' sudden backtrack.

'When we announced the subject policy regarding COVID-19, we believed that we were acting in compliance with the Department of Education's Emergency Rule ... which allows a student to be considered in attendance at school when under a 'stay-home' directive related to COVID-19,' the letter began.

'Our plan at the time included a 'stay-home' policy that would be supported by remote learning.

'Please note, however, that the plan was not implemented and we will not pursue any such measures. We conclude our response by confirming that Centner Academy is not requesting any student to quarantine at home due to vaccination status.'

The private school, which has balked at federal guidelines on mask use and vaccinations in the past received a loan of more than $800,000 in government money  from the taxpayer-funded, federal Paycheck Protection Program last year.

Dr. Aileen Marty, an infectious disease expert at Florida International University said the school's policy had no basis.

'What happens 30 days after they get vaccinated?' she asked. 'What kind of nonsense is this?'

Dr. Aileen Marty, an infectious disease expert at Florida International University blasted the school's policy in an interview with 7News, saying there is no basis for it

'Where did they get that?' she again asked, rhetorically, to 7News. 'There's nothing in the recommendations to that... they made that up.

'That's science fiction,' Marty said, 'not even science fiction because it's pure fiction.'

'I don't find the letter interesting, I find it sad,' she continued. 'I find it terrible that there's all this misleading information coming out of an institution that allegedly is an educational institution.

'The technology is not new. The technology is well-established and it's based on the best science we have.'

The Centers for Disease Control says that all three COVID-19 vaccinations approved by the Food and Drug Administration are safe, as they do not use live viruses and could therefore not make anyone sick with COVID.

Children aged 12 and up are currently eligible to receive a COVID vaccine, with kids aged between five and 11 likely to be approved too in the coming weeks.

Vaccinating children has proven a controversial topic. Many parents who are pro-vax themselves say they're unsure about having their children jabbed, because COVID is relatively harmless for the vast majority of kids who catch it.

Those who back vaccines for children say that even a small risk is unethical to take when it comes to the health of a child.

The Miami-based school, which teaches students from kindergarten through to senior year of high school, previously faced controversy back in April, when co-foundera Leila and David Centner wrote to staff that vaccinated employees would no longer be allowed to work directly with students.

Teachers at the school were told they could either physically distance from students if they had had the shot; tell the school if they plan to get the vaccine 'as we cannot allow recently vaccinated people to be near our students until more information is known'; or wait until the school year ends to get the vaccine.

As of Sunday, about 67 percent of eligible Americans have received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine and 58 percent are fully vaccinated.

Meanwhile, the number of COVID cases has continued to decline, with 17,100 new cases reported on Sunday - down about 90 percent from a post-vaccine high of 184,000 on September 3.

And the number of deaths from COVID has also declined, with just 148 reported on Sunday, compared to 3,155 on September 23.
The Manchester Arena bomber had contact with eight individuals who were 'subjects of interest' to MI5, the inquiry into the terror attack heard yesterday.

The revelation brought accusations from lawyers for the families of the blast victims that the intelligence agency had failed them.

'You failed to protect these families and the public from a bomber,' John Cooper QC told an MI5 witness. 'On the most straightforward grounds, you failed.'

It came after the inquiry heard that the bomber, Salman Abedi, is 'likely' to have been indoctrinated into Islamist extremism by his own father.

CCTV image of Salman Abedi (Pictured) at Victoria Station making his way to the Manchester Arena, on May 22, 2017, where he detonated the bomb. His brother Hashem Abedi has been found guilty of murder over the bombing that killed 22 people

MI5 officer, known as Witness J, was giving evidence on Monday at an inquiry into attack by Salman Abedi. The inquiry heard that the bomber, Salman Abedi, is 'likely' to have been indoctrinated into Islamist extremism by his own father

The director-general of Counter Terrorism at MI5, known only as Witness J, told how those such as Abedi, 22, with a Libyan background, were exposed to individuals with extremist tendencies from their parents' generation.

These include former members of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group  which fought against Colonel Gaddafi's regime and has been linked to Al Qaeda  who moved to Britain. Abedi's father Ramadan has been linked with LIFG.

'Salman Abedi was assessed as likely his extreme views were informed by his father, Ramadan Abedi,' Witness J said. Asked by Paul Greaney QC, for the inquiry, if it was assessed that Ramadan Abedi was involved with the LIFG, the spy said: 'I'm afraid I am not able to go into that in open [hearings].'

The eight 'subjects of interest' included one who was in Libya and one in prison.

Some were direct contacts while others were indirect. The MI5 witness did not name Abdalraouf Abdallah, a convicted terrorist recruiter whose name was revealed by the Press, and was visited by Abedi twice in prison.

The second visit occurred on the day Abedi ordered his first bomb-making chemicals and he also exchanged calls using an illicit phone on the day they were delivered. Sir John Saunders, the inquiry chairman has ruled that there is 'centrally important material' relevant to the question of whether MI5 could have prevented the attacks that cannot be revealed to the public.

The inquiry has previously heard there were 18 missed opportunities when the security services could have stopped Salman Abedi.

It is currently examining whether Abedi  who the spy services first became aware of aged 16 in 2013  should have been 'reopened' as a subject of interest in 2016, in light of what was known by MI5 and police at that time.

A second issue will be whether Abedi should have been reopened as a subject of interest in the first few months of 2017 in response to information received.

The last issue is whether he should have been put on a 'ports action' list in 2017 which would have alerted police to his return from Libya. Abedi murdered 22 men, women and children and injured hundreds more by detonating a backpack at a concert in 2017. The hearing continues.
A Missouri man, 37, who was sentenced to prison for the death of his mother when he was just 14 years old because police said he showed no emotion as his mom lay lifeless on the floor could be freed as the state Supreme Court considers his case.

Attorneys for Michael Politte, who was convicted at age 14 of killing his mother, last week asked the Missouri Supreme Court to free him after more than 22 years behind bars, citing now-disproven evidence, a faulty investigation and a flawed trial defense.

Rita Politte was burned to death inside her mobile home in Hopewell, Missouri, in 1998. Prosecutors claimed Michael Politte used a blunt object to bash his mothers head and then set the home on fire for her to burn.

Police said they noticed that gasoline was found on his sneakers. Investigators believe that gasoline was also used to set her on fire.

The alleged traces of gasoline found on Michael's sneakers was the only piece of physical evidence linking him to the crime.

Today, Missouri officials acknowledge that the evidence used to convict Politte was flimsy.

In 2016, a lab report determined that there was no gasoline on Michael's sneakers. Instead, they were chemicals often found on the rubber part of the shoes.

Now legal experts say that Michael Politte wasnt adequately represented by his attorneys and that the case prosecutors used to convict him was flawed.

Politte was convicted of second-degree murder and sentenced to life in prison after being tried as an adult.

Michael Politte entered prison for the murder of his mother as a 14-year-old boy (left). Now, he is 37 and serving a life sentence while continuing to maintain his innocence

Rita Politte suffered blunt force trauma and was burned to death inside her mobile home in Hopewell, Missouri, in 1998 (pictured with Michael)

Politte said he found his mother's burning body in her bedroom at their trailer home (pictured) as he and a friend tried to escape

He is housed at the Jefferson City Correctional Center.

They tried to put themselves in my shoes of how they would feel, how I should have acted in regards finding my mother burning to death on the floor. It wasn't to their liking ... so in their eyes, I was guilty, Politte told USA TODAY.

At his trial, one of the investigators testified that young Michael was acting normal, not concerned about what had happened, [had shown] no visible signs of remorse.

But legal experts say that there is no scientific basis for testimony in which officers tried to read the emotions of a traumatized boy.

Prosecutors 'should never have been allowed into evidence, because there's no science behind it,' said Steven Drizin, a clinical law professor at Northwestern University and co-director of the Center on Wrongful Convictions.

'Sometimes, trauma can lead us to act with a sort of a flat effect or in what may be perceived to be an unemotional way,' he said.

'And that doesn't mean they're guilty and it doesn't mean that's a basis for turning up the heat during an interrogation.'

The defense argued that the state did not provide a motive for Politte to kill his mother. Much of the case hinged on fire investigators' testimony who said the fire was started with gasoline and investigators determined Politte had gasoline on his shoes, which has been disproven

Michael and both his sisters (pictured together, top) have always maintained that he was innocent. Attorneys argued that investigators ignored other potential suspects, including Politte's father (bottom right), who was going through a contentious divorce with Rita

They set their sights on me right then, Politte said.

It was easy for them to assume that I was responsible because I was the only living person other than (his friend) in my house.

And then they began to analyze my behavior.

The Missouri Court of Appeals in September refused to hear Polittes case, prompting the request to the state Supreme Court.

'Rita Politte deserves justice,' the court filing states.

'But she is not the only victim here. Her family, including her then 14-year-old, now grown, son Michael, are also victims of the State's failure to properly investigate and prosecute her murderer, not to mention their knowing misconduct.

'This Court can finally bring peace to this family.'

In addition to asking that Politte be freed, his attorneys are seeking an evidentiary hearing or appointment of a special master to investigate the case.

'Most basically, we believe Mike should be freed because he was convicted on the basis of false evidence,' Politte's attorney, Megan Crane, said in a phone interview.

'Everyone knows it's false. Even the state admits it's false.'

Michael was the only suspect despite the fact that his mother and father had just emerged from an acrimonious divorce.

Attorneys for Politte are seeking to have him freed, citing now-disproven evidence, a faulty investigation and a flawed trial defense

When officers and the fire marshal arrived on the scene, Politte asked sheriffs officers how his mother died. He wondered if she had her throat slit or if she died violently in some other way.

Investigators testified that this made them suspicious of Michael, since his mother died of head trauma.

The questions, the lack of emotion, and young Michaels reputation around town as a fire bug led law enforcement officials to focus on him.

'Other officers focused on Michael right away and assumed he was guilty because they just did not think he was telling the truth and they thought he was acting odd,' according to Tammy Nash, a former deputy sheriff in Washington County who worked on the case.

Nash submitted an affidavit to the Supreme Court which read: 'I disagreed; Michael was a fourteen year old kid who had just found his mom dead.

'I wondered how did they expect him to act after this trauma.'

Michael was also the focal point of the investigation even though his mother was threatened by his father a week before after the courts approved a significant financial settlement against him from the divorce.

Michaels father surrendered his son to the sheriffs office within days of his mothers death.

Michael continued to protest his innocence and insisted he was being framed. He also demanded an attorney.

'Michael became the prime suspect,' according to Michael's lawyers.

'Police wrongly suspected him because they misinterpreted his reaction to the trauma of finding his mother's burning body as evidence of guilt, deception, and ultimately, what the State called a remorseless cold heart.'

At trial, Michaels attorneys did not call witnesses who could testify to his innocence because they did not fit the narrative decided on the morning of the murder, his attorneys said.

His attorney did not consult or present a single expert, despite the States reliance on scientific evidence of which counsel had no knowledge or experience, his attorney's state Supreme Court filing reads.

Counsel did not call any of Michaels family to testify in his defense, and counsel did not prepare or call Michael to testify despite his urgent desire to explain his innocence.

It took the jury slightly more than four hours to return a guilty verdict.

Last week, a juror who helped put him in prison has now come out claiming he was innocent and should be freed.

'If I had known then what I know now, I would not have convicted,' Linda Dickerson-Bell wrote in an affidavit.

Dickerson-Bell, who has emerged as the second juror from Politte's murder trial to publicly express her regret for finding him guilty, said she was pressured to convict the defendant by other jurors.

Politte said in a statement in August that he ended up in prison due to a judicial system 'overseen by flawed human beings' who 'do not want to admit that they wrongfully convicted a 14-year-old for murdering his own mother.'

The petition said Politte and a friend were sleeping when they awoke to smoke in the early hours of December 5, 1998.

Politte said he found his mother's burning body in her bedroom as he and the friend tried to escape. She also suffered blunt force head trauma.

In 2017, juror Jonathan Peterson wrote in an affidavit that he did not think 'justice was served' when Politte was convicted.

Peterson wrote that he while was 'unsure' Politte committed the murder, he claimed he voted to convict because the trial judge pressured the jury to return a verdict.

Before he went to trial, Politte rejected an offer to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter carrying a 15-year sentence because he was innocent, she said.

Had he accepted the plea deal, he would have regained his freedom a decade ago, Politte said in a recent interview with St. Louis Public Radio.

'I didn't murder my mother,' he told the station.
Queensland has two new cases of community-acquired Covid infection, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced in state parliament.

One case is an unvaccinated 17-year-old person from the Gold Coast who is a close contact of a woman who travelled from NSW.

The other case is a woman in her 30s from Melbourne who is currently in home quarantine.

Exposure sites in Bundaberg and the Sunshine Coast were also released by Queensland Health after a truck driver tested positive in NSW. He is considered a NSW case.

Ms Palaszczuk said the woman from Melbourne was considered low risk because she was in quarantine.

She warned that one case of Delta could cause 'a massive outbreak' in the state.

'Because of the time it takes between doses, Queenslanders have just five days to get a first dose so they can be fully vaccinated in time for Christmas when families can once again be reunited with loved ones,' she told parliament.

Ms Palaszczuk said the 17-year-old had presented to the emergency department with a headache and lived with a woman who had travelled from NSW.

'Investigations are underway as to how that person arrived into Queensland,' the premier said.

There is no suggestion that the new Gold Coast case is linked to that of Uber driver Duran Raman, who tested positive last week after a trip to Sydney and Melbourne and remains in isolation at Gold Coast University Hospital.

The Gold Coast area had been on alert since the discovery of Mr Raman's case but other than the teenager's infection announced today, no further cases had so far been detected in the region.

Police were called to Gold Coast University Hospital on Sunday following reports Raman, 36, had allegedly tried to flee hospital quarantine, despite needing a constant supply of oxygen.

Sources alleged Raman had been an uncooperative patient who verbally abused nurses and called them c**ts.

He also allegedly insisted he 'doesn't really have' Covid-19 and claimed the virus wasn't real.

Queensland has two new cases of community-acquired Covid infection, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced in state parliament

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Ms Palaszczuk said 75.22 per cent of Queenslanders had now received one dose of a Covid vaccine, while 60.7 percent of the population 16 and over were now fully vaccinated.

Queensland's vaccination rate is lagging behind other parts of Australia and the state government is attempting to lift the rate to 70 per cent of the population with two doses of a Covid vaccine by November 19, when a phased reopening of the state starts.

'On November 19 anyone from an interstate hotspot will be able to travel into Queensland provided they arrive by air, are fully vaccinated and produce a negative Covid test,' Ms Palaszczuk said.

People arriving on or after that date will be required to complete 14 days home quarantine.

'Make no mistake, Covid is coming,' she said.

People queue to receive a Covid-19 vaccine at a Bunnings hardware store in Brisbane, Queensland

Queensland's vaccination rate is lagging behind other parts of Australia and the state government is attempting to lift the rate to 70 per cent of the population with two doses of a Covid vaccine by November 19

Central Queensland had only 66 per cent of residents with a single dose of vaccine, Ms Palaszczuk told Parliament, while some communities in the far north of the estate were still below 50 per cent.

Pop-up clinics at some of Queensland's major theme parks, including DreamWorld, SeaWorld and Australia Zoo would be open this weekend, the premier said.

From December 17 onwards, visitors from declared hotpots will be able to visit Queensland by road or air provided they are full vaccinated and produce a negative Covid test 72 hours before entry. No quarantine will be required.

Visitors from non-hotspots will have no restrictions placed on entry after that date.

The state also announced it would reopen to fully vaccinated international students before the first semester of study in 2022.

Innovation Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said up to 250 international students per week will be permitted to enter Queensland and quarantine at the facility currently being constructed by Wagner Corporation at Wellcamp, near Toowoomba.
Detectives have recovered loose and boxed ammunition and a 'fanny pack w/ammo' from the set of Rust where Alec Baldwin shot and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

An inventory of seized items was released by authorities but did not specify the type of ammo nor whether it included live or dummy bullets or blank cartridges.

The items included three revolvers, two boxes of 'ammo,' 'loose ammo and boxes', spent casings as well as 'a fanny pack w/ammo', according to the inventory delivered to Santa Fe County Magistrate Court.

The court records also show how two leather gun belts with holsters, articles of clothing and swabs of what were believed to be blood were found by investigators.

One of the central mysteries about the killing of cinematographer Hutchins remains what kind of projectile was fired from the gun and how it got there.

Investigators hope a forensic analysis of ballistic evidence will shed light on those questions, Juan Rios, spokesman for the Santa Fe Sheriff's Department, said on Monday.

'This is a complicated case,' he said.

Mike Tristano, a veteran professional armorer who works in LA, said the inventory was vague and reveals little about the shooting.

But he told the New York Times it was unusual to have loose ammunition and spent casings on set, adding they would normally be kept in a labeled box.

Detectives have recovered loose and boxed ammunition and a 'fanny pack w/ammo' from the set of Rust where Alec Baldwin shot and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins (pictured)

The items included three revolvers (file image), two boxes of 'ammo,' 'loose ammo and boxes', spent casings as well as 'a fanny pack w/ammo

He said: 'The fact that there is loose ammunition and casings raises questions about the organization of the armory department.'

Prosecutors and law enforcement officers are expected to provide an update on the investigation Wednesday.

It was previously revealed that the gun fired by Baldwin had been used for target practice by crew members.

Multiple sources connected to the set of Rust told TMZ that the same Colt pistol that went off had been used recreationally.

The sources claim that some crew members would go off for target practice using real bullets, and some believe a live round from those practice sessions found its way onto the set.

Another source told TMZ that live ammo and blanks were being stored in the same area on set, offering another possible explanation.

Director Joel Souza, who was struck in the shoulder during the accidental shooting, said in an affidavit that Baldwin was practicing drawing his gun while rehearsing in a church pew when it fired.

Hutchins was struck in the midriff causing her to stumble back while saying she could not feel her legs.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 24, was named on Friday as the person who loaded Baldwin's vintage Colt pistol which was being used in the gunfight scene set.

According to a police warrant, the Colt was one of three pistols left on a table by Gutierrez-Reed and was handed to Baldwin by British assistant director Dave Halls who told the veteran actor it was 'cold'- not realizing it had been loaded with live rounds.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 24, was named on Friday as the person who loaded Baldwin's vintage Colt pistol which was being used in the gunfight scene set

Halls has previously faced criticisms for his safety on set with a crew member describing his attitude as 'flippant'.

One crew member, who spoke on condition of anonymity for fear of being blacklisted, told DailyMail.com that hed worked with Halls on two similarly low-budget sets in Los Angeles in spring 2019, one where a revolver and Glock were used, and another involving shotguns.

Each morning theyd have a meeting to discuss the weapons and other safety issues, an industry standard. But he said Halls didnt think they were needed.

'He was very flippant about my insistence on having a safety meeting about the weapons, on both of the sets,' said the crew member, who asked to use the pseudonym Jay and has worked on films for 10 years.

'He would rush through it and say, alright guys, be safe, lets get to work.'

The head electrician on the set blasted producers for hiring underqualified armorers, as he described the harrowing moment he held Hutchins in his arms after she was shot.

Serge Svetnoy was standing next to the cinematographer when she was struck during rehearsals.

Serge Svetnoy has described the harrowing moment he held Halyna Hutchins in his arms after she was accidentally shot by Alec Baldwin (pictured: Serge and Halyna)

The gaffer said in an emotional Facebook post that he and Hutchins were friends and had worked on a number of films before, as he described the anguish at having to hold her dying in his arms.

Svetnoy wrote: 'Yes, I was standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Halyna during this fatal shot that took her life and injured the director Joel Souza. I was holding her in my arms while she was dying. Her blood was on my hands.'

Svetnoy blames her death on 'negligence and unprofessionalism' as he blasted those responsible for not doing their jobs properly and claimed producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

He wrote: 'I do not wish anyone to go through what I went through, what her husband Matt Hutchins and her son Andros went through, and the actor Alec Baldwin, who has been handed a gun on set. He has to live with the thought that he took the life of the human because of unprofessional people.'

Svetnoy was standing next to the cinematographer when she was struck during rehearsals as Baldwin (pictured on set) practiced drawing the weapon in a church pew

The gaffer said in an emotional Facebook post that he and Hutchins were friends and had worked on a number of films before

He said: 'The negligence from the person who was supposed to check the weapon on the site did not do this; the person who had to announce that the loaded gun was on the site did not do this;

'The person who should have checked this weapon before bringing it to the set did not do it. And the DEATH OF THE HUMAN IS THE RESULT!

'I'm sure that we had the professionals in every department, but one - the department that was responsible for the weapons.

'There is no way a twenty-four-year-old woman can be a professional with armory; there is no way that her more-or-less the same-aged friend from school, neighborhood, Instagram, or God knows where else, can be a professional in this field.'

The experienced crew member called on producers to ensure such an accident is never repeated, by hiring qualified staff who know how to be safe on potentially dangerous sets.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed was seen for the first time as she paced outside her home on Monday, October 25

The rookie armorer was snapped deep into a phone conversation outside her home

Halyna Hutchins' October 19, 2021 Instagram post shows cast members and staffers Alec Baldwin, Halyna Hutchins and armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed (Circled left to right) on the set of Rust in Santa Fe, New Mexico

Gun that went off in Alec Baldwin's hands and claimed the life of Halyna Hutchins was used for off-set target practice by crew members and live ammo and blanks were stored together, sources say Alec Baldwin was wielding a vintage Colt pistol The gun that killed the cinematographer on the set of Alec Baldwin's Rust had been used for target practice by crew members, sources linked to the western film's production said. Multiple sources connected to the set of Rust told TMZ that the same Colt pistol that went off in Alec Baldwin's hands, killing Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza, had been used recreationally by crew members. The sources claim that some crew members would go off for target practice using real bullets, and some believe a live round from those practice sessions found its way onto the set. Another source told TMZ that live ammo and blanks were being stored in the same area on set, offering another possible explanation as to how a bullet was fired from Baldwin's Colt. A search warrant released Friday said that Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 24, had laid out three prop guns on a cart outside the filming location, and first assistant director Dave Halls grabbed the Colt from the cart and brought it inside to Baldwin, unaware that it was loaded with live rounds. 'Cold gun!' shouted Halls before handing the gun to Baldwin, using the phrase to signal to cast and crew that the gun was safe to fire for the scene, the warrant said. Seconds later, filming a scene inside an Old West-style church, Baldwin apparently aimed towards the camera and pulled the trigger, accidentally killing Hutchins as she filmed him, and injuring Souza, who stood behind her. Two production sources who previously worked with Gutierrez-Reed said this was not the first time she was involved in an incident on a movie set. The two sources told The Daily Beast that Hannah Gutierrez-Reed had allegedly given an 11-year-old actress a gun without checking it properly while on the set of the Nicholas Cage film, The Old Way. 'There were a couple times she was loading the blanks and doing it in a fashion that we thought was unsafe,' one of the sources said. 'She was a bit careless with the guns, waving it around every now and again.' Sources on the Rust set have said the fatal incident that killed Hutchins, 42, and injured Souza, 48, was a result of production failings from top to bottom. They added that assistant director Halls, who handed the gun to Baldwin and told him it was safe, should have checked the weapon. 'He's supposed to be our last line of defense and he failed us,' one of the sources on set said. 'He's the last person that's supposed to look at that firearm.' A Rust production source told The Daily Beast that there were at least two previous incidents of guns being accidentally discharged by other crewmember on set before Thursday's tragic incident. The source described Gutierrez-Reed as 'inexperienced and green.' Advertisement

He said: 'To save a dime sometimes, you hire people who are not fully qualified for the complicated and dangerous job, and you risk the lives of the other people who are close and your lives as well.

'I understand that you always fight for the budget, but you cannot allow this to happen.

'There should always be at least one professional in each department who knows the job. It is an absolute must to avoid such a tragedy, like the tragedy with Halyna.'

Svetnoy finished off his post by saying: 'We all loved Halyna. May God bless her soul.'

Rust was only the second movie Gutierrez-Reed has worked on and sources on the set described her as 'inexperienced and green'.

According to her LinkedIn page, she most recently worked as a videographer at Synth Fire, a California-based news and media company, and as a documentary filmmaker for the City of Flagstaff in Arizona.

She worked as an armorer for Yellowstone film ranch between March and June 2021, but according to the page stopped working there three months before filming for Rust started in October.

Gutierrez-Reed had only recently left Northern Arizona university, where she studied creative media and film between 2017 and 2020.

The daughter of legendary Hollywood armorer Thell Reed, 78, Gutierrez-Reed previously worked on Nicholas Cage movie The Old Way  admitting beforehand that she 'wasn't sure' if she was ready in a podcast interview.

She said: 'I almost didn't take the job because I wasn't sure if I was ready, but doing it, it went really smoothly.'

She also admitted in the podcast interview she found loading blanks into a gun 'the scariest' thing because she did not know how to do it and had sought help from her father.

But while Gutierrez-Reed thought the job had gone smoothly, sources told the Daily Beast that the rookie armorer was 'unsafe' and had handed a gun to 11-year-old actress Ryan Kiera Armstrong.

The source said: 'She was a bit careless with the guns, waving it around every now and again. There were a couple times she was loading the blanks and doing it in a fashion that we thought was unsafe.'

The insider added that they had seen her loading a gun on pebble strewn ground  which has the potential to be dangerous  before handing off the gun to Armstrong.

'She was reloading the gun on the ground, where there were pebbles and stuff,' the source said. 'We didn't see her check it, we didn't know if something got in the barrel or not.'

Meanwhile, sources on the Rust set have said the fatal incident was a result of production failings from top to bottom.

Zak Knight, a pyrotechnic and special effects engineer who is a member of Local 44, told DailyMail.com on Friday that Hutchins' death was caused by a 'cascade of failures' by multiple people: 'There should have never been live rounds on a movie set, that's number one. Number two is every single person on a movie set has a right to inspect a weapon before it's fired. And number three is, there is no reason to ever put a person in front of a weapon that's firing.

Sources added that assistant director Halls, who handed the gun to Baldwin and told him it was safe, should have checked the weapon.

'He's supposed to be our last line of defense and he failed us,' one of the sources on set said. 'He's the last person that's supposed to look at that firearm.'

A Rust production source told The Daily Beast that there were at least two previous incidents of guns being accidentally discharged by other crew members on set before Thursday's tragic incident.

They claim she did not check the gun before placing it on the prop table to be used

Several sources from the set have said that Gutierrez-Reed was 'careless with the guns' on set

Gutierrez-Reed (left) admitted in a podcast interview she found loading blanks into a gun 'the scariest' thing because she did not know how to do it and had sought help from her father, legendary gunsmith Thell Reed, (right) to get over the fear

'He's supposed to check the guns, he's responsible': Panicked 911 calls from Alec Baldwin tragedy reveal how script supervisor blamed assistant director for death of cinematographer - but why did ANY of the guns have live ammo? The audio recordings of 911 calls made by the crew of Alec Baldwin's film Rust have revealed desperate attempts to save their colleague, and allegations of negligence. Mamie Mitchell, the script supervisor of the film, made the call after Baldwin accidentally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, and director Joel Souza, 48. The group were filming the Western film in the desert outside Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Thursday when the tragedy happened. In her call, Mitchell, a veteran script supervisor with credits dating back to 1974, points the finger at the assistant director, accusing him of negligence. Mitchell calls 911 and tells the woman answering: 'We need an ambulance out at Bonanza Creek Ranch right now. We have had two people accidentally shot on a movie set accidentally.' While she is on the phone, Mitchell is instructing another person to 'clear the road' to allow the ambulance easy access to the site. Mitchell is then transferred to the Santa Fe fire and EMS, and, sounding panicked, urges a swift response. 'Bonanza Creek ranch. We have had two people accidentally shot on a movie set by a prop gun. 'We need help immediately. Bonanza Creek ranch. Come on.' The 911 operators then asks Mitchell for her details. Mitchell, who has worked on films including No Country For Old Men, Sicario and 3:10 to Yuma, can be heard saying: 'It sounds like somebody else is calling for ambulances. 'Everybody should be. We need some help. 'Our director and our camerawoman has been shot.' She then asks someone on set: 'Are they going to take him to the road?' The 911 operator asks: 'So, was it loaded with a real bullet or what?' Mitchell replies: 'I don't, I cannot tell you that. We have two injuries from a movie gunshot.' While the phone operator is inputting the details, Mitchell can be heard telling someone else: 'OK, this f****** AD that yelled at me at lunch asking about revisions, this motherf*****. 'Did you see him lean over my desk and yell at me? He's supposed to check the guns. He's responsible for what happened.' According to a search warrant filed in a Santa Fe court, the gun was one of three that the film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez, had set on a cart outside the wooden structure where a scene was being acted. An inconsolable Alec Baldwin is shown, left, on Thursday outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office after accidentally shooting and killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, right Assistant director Dave Halls grabbed the gun from the cart and brought it inside to Baldwin, unaware that it was loaded with live rounds, a detective wrote in the search warrant application. It is not known whether Mitchell was referring Halls in the audio. It was unclear how many rounds were fired. Gutierrez removed a shell casing from the gun after the shooting, and she turned the weapon over to police when they arrived, the court records say. On the call, the 911 operator tries to ask Mitchell how many people were injured and, confused, Mitchell replies: 'No, no, I'm a script supervisor.' The operator asks again, and Mitchell says: 'Two that I know of. I was sitting there rehearsing and it went off and I ran out. We all went out there, but doubled over the camerawoman and the director.' She tells another person: 'They are clearing the road, can you go back - back in the town, back in the Western camp.' The operator asks if there is any serious bleeding, and Mitchell, flustered, hands the phone over to a man. 'Hello?' the man says. 'Hi, I have a protocol of questions I need to ask. If you could answer them as best you can,' the 911 operator says. 'Are they completely alert?' The man replies: 'Yes, they are alert.' The operator asks if the bleeding is controlled, and the man replies: 'Let's see if I'm allowed to get closer... No.' It is unclear if he is saying that the bleeding is not controlled, or that he is not able to get closer. 'We've got one laying down,' he tells the operator, adding that they are near gate one and have a van ready to escort the ambulances quickly to the precise spot. A devastated Baldwin is pictured bent over outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office on Thursday after speaking to investigators A woman then calls back saying: 'Hi, I am calling back from Bonanza Creek Ranch. We actually need two ambulances not one.' The operator replies: 'OK, so we're doing a call now for somebody else and we'll get two up to you.' The woman, her voice showing the strain, replies: 'OK. And that's 10 to 15 minutes?' 'I don't know - we're getting them right now, to you now,' the operator replies. 'What? What?' the woman says, sounding panicked as she speaks to someone else. 'We have two ambulances heading your way.' 'What?' the woman says, then returns speaking to the operator: 'OK, thank you.' Joel Souza, the director of Rust, is seen in November 2019. He was reportedly shot in the shoulder The operator replies: 'You're welcome, bye.' Mitchell later said she was standing next to Hutchins when she was shot. 'I ran out and called 911 and said 'Bring everybody, send everybody,' Mitchell told The Associated Press. 'This woman is gone at the beginning of her career. She was an extraordinary, rare, very rare woman.' Mitchell said she and other crew members were attending a private memorial service Friday night in Santa Fe. Baldwin described the killing as a 'tragic accident.' 'There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours. I'm fully cooperating with the police investigation,' Baldwin wrote on Twitter. 'My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna.' No immediate charges were filed, and sheriff's spokesman Juan Rios said Baldwin was permitted to travel. 'He's a free man,' Rios said. Advertisement

An aerial view of the Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe, where Rust was being filmed. Workers had been protesting over the fact production wouldn't pay for them to stay in hotels and motels in Santa Fe, instead forcing them to drive an hour to Albuquerque

Rust crew members claim there were several complaints made against the armorer on the set and that at least six 'fed-up' people had walked off the set prior to Gutierrez-Reed handing Baldwin the gun that killed Hutchins.

The crew made their complaints directly to assistant director Dave Hall - who is named in the search warrant affidavit as the person handed Baldwin the gun that killed Hutchins and told him it was safe - and demanded all the discharges were documented.

'All of us yelled at him, 'That better be on the production report, these guys are irresponsible and shouldn't be here,' a production source said.

'That should be automatic grounds for termination on a union film set, you should be gone. The first time that gun went off without telling anybody, that whole department should have been replaced, immediately. Clearly production thought better of it, decided to roll the dice and pay the ultimate price.'

Deadline also cites an unnamed source who said a gun had gone off 'in a cabin' while someone was holding it, days prior to the shooting that killed Hutchins.

'A gun had two misfires in a closed cabin. They just fired loud pops  a person was just holding it in their hands and it went off,' they said, apparently referring to unintentional discharges.

A Santa Fe County Sheriff Department spokesman said: 'The investigation remains active and open. Witnesses continue to be interviewed and evidence collected.'

In addition to the criminal probe, New Mexico's Occupational Health and Safety Bureau is investigating Hutchins' death, and could impose civil penalties even if no charges are brought in the case.

'Our state OSHA program is investigating this,' Rebecca Roose, deputy cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Environment Department,' told Deadline.

'The state takes all workplace safety issues very seriously and will work diligently through our investigation of this tragic fatality.'
France is set to implement a go-slow strategy for customs checks on shipments bound for Britain ahead of Christmas as the row over post-Brexit fishing rights continues.

Downing Street is bracing itself for further confrontation with president Emmanuel Macron as talks over the granting of licenses for French vessels to fish in UK waters continue.

According to The Sun, the country wants to increase import taxes on British goods but if it is unable to get the backing it needs from the European Union, it could cause tailbacks at Calais and Dover by ordering more physical checks.

French prime minister Jean Castex is reportedly set to warn EU and UK negotiators that they have until midnight on Friday to resolve the dispute.

France has been angered by Jersey's refusal to approve any more than 15 permits for small French fishing vessels to operate in British waters - after 47 applications were made.

France is set to implement a go-slow strategy for customs checks on shipments bound for Britain ahead of Christmas as the row over post-Brexit fishing rights continues. Above: Trucks queuing to enter the port of Calais last year

The country also says it asked for 450 fishing licences for UK waters but had only received 275.

If the situation is not resolved, it will further worsen Franco-British relations, which have recently taken a hit over Channel migrant crossings and the Aukus nuclear submarine deal signed with Australia and the US.

On Tuesday, Mr Castex is set to unveil a package of mooted reprisals which could be implemented as early as November 1.

It could include the cutting off of energy supplies to the UK and blocking Britain's fishing fleet from accessing French ports.

Some observers believe that Mr Macron is seeking to make political capital out of the row amid his hope to be re-elected as French president next year.

French boats were free to fish in the six-to-12 mile zone when the UK was in the EU, but now have to prove that they previously did so. France says they should keep the same level of access, accusing Britain of breaching the Brexit trade deal.

Downing Street is bracing itself for further confrontation with president Emmanuel Macron as talks over the granting of licenses for French vessels to fish in UK waters continue

Paris's maritime minister Annick Girardin is said to have set a November 1 deadline for the dispute to be resolved in a meeting with Maros Sefcovic, the European Commission vice president leading post-Brexit trade talks, and Virginijus Sinkevicius, the commissioner responsible for fisheries

France says they should keep the same level of access that they enjoyed before Britain's departure from the EU and accuse the UK of breaching the Brexit trade deal.

Earlier this month, French fishermen threatened a Channel blockade after the EU refused to back Emmanuel Macron's demand for tough action against the UK.

Other EU member states poured cold water on Mr Macron's bid to get them to sign up on immediate retaliation, instead agreeing a watered down declaration calling for more 'technical' work.

However, the French fleet is now warning they are ready to take matters into their own hands.

Fishing rights were one of the key battlegrounds between Britain and France in their post-Brexit negotiations, and Mr Macron's looming presidential election means he is under pressure to look tough.

Earlier this year, the dispute over licences led both France and Britain to send patrol vessels off the shores of Jersey, which is a self-governing British Crown Dependency.

Britain says the majority of the vessels were denied access because they failed to provide evidence that they had fished in the six-to-12-mile nautical zone in the years before the UK's referendum on leaving the EU.

Jersey external relations minister Ian Gorst said the island's government had taken 'a pragmatic, reasonable and evidence-based approach' to the issue.

Diplomatic relations between the countries have hit a low point recently - with French ministers even threatening to cut electricity supplies.

Last month Boris Johnson told France to 'prenez un grip' and 'donnez moi un break' in the row about the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal that tore up a separate French contract.

The country wants to increase import taxes on British goods but if it is unable to get the backing it needs from the European Union, it could cause tailbacks at Calais and Dover by ordering more physical checks. Above: A French vessel (left) sails past a Dutch trawler in the North Sea

Earlier this month Paris's noisy European Affairs Minister Clement Beaune lashed out at the UK's Brexit 'failures' and said that France's trawlermen would not 'pay the price' for the UK's decision to leave.

Beaune was dubbed 'le Grinch' as he threatened to choke Christmas supplies to the UK - including electricity.

He pointedly observing that the UK depends on energy exports across the Channel.

'Enough already, we have an agreement negotiated by France, by Michel Barnier, and it should be applied 100 percent. It isn't being,' he told Europe 1 radio.

French boats were free to fish in the six-to-12 mile zone when the UK was in the EU, but now have to prove that they previously did so. Above: French fishermen protesting off the coast of Jersey earlier this year

'In the next few days, and I talked to my European counterparts on this subject yesterday, we will take measures at the European level or nationally, to apply pressure on the United Kingdom.'

He added: 'We defend our interests. We do it nicely, and diplomatically, but when that doesn't work, we take measures.

'For example, we can imagine, since we're talking about energy, ... the United Kingdom depends on our energy supplies,' Beaune also said. 'It thinks that it can live all alone, and bash Europe.'
The SNP leader of Glasgow has been branded 'delusional' after she blamed Margaret Thatcher for the city's rat-infested streets.

Susan Aitken clashed with MPs while being questioned on preparations for the Cop26 climate summit that will be held in Glasgow from Sunday by Westminster's Scottish Affairs Committee yesterday.

There are mounting fears Cop26 will be blighted by industrial action, with Scotrail staff and Glasgow's bin workers currently due to strike in a potential humiliation for the UK on the world stage.

World leaders from 120 countries will soon descend on Glasgow - but Scotland's second city is blighted by rubbish and fly-tipping as well as some of the UK's highest poverty, drug death and crime rates.

In an evidence session with the Scottish Affairs Committee, Scottish Tory leader Douglas Ross asked Ms Aitken: 'You have been widely ridiculed across the UK for saying that Glasgow only needs a ''spruce up'' and is not actually filthy. Do you regret any of your previous comments?'

Ms Aitken stood by her remarks before insisting that Mrs Thatcher, the former prime minister who left office more than 30 years ago and died in 2013, was responsible for the 'challenges' facing Scotland's second city.

She then sought to downplay fears over the city's 'filthy' state, claiming 'all cities have rats' but admitting to 'possibly two' occasions in which council workers had been hospitalised after 'small incidents' with rats.

Susan Aitken, left, has been branded 'delusional' after she blamed Margaret Thatcher, right, for the city's rat-infested streets

Pictures show the grim reality of every corner of Scotland's second city being blighted with rubbish, fly-tipping and bins overflowing in recent month

Workers remove bath tubs, window frames, mattresses, broken furniture and construction waste dumped underneath the M8 motorway on September 15

'I do not, in any way, shy away from the challenges that we face as a city, historic challenges that have been around for many, many years,' Ms Aitken claimed.

'Much of them a legacy of our post-industrial past when the Thatcher government walked away and abandoned Glasgow and left in neglect communities right across this city.'

The head of the SNP-led administration in Glasgow said she was not embarrassed by the city's deteriorating condition and insisted it was 'entirely gratuitous' to suggest it was infested with rats.

She said Glasgow was ready to host the conference 'with caveats', adding: 'I would say the caveats are mainly technical, some of them have already been resolved or are being ticked off.'

'None of them were massive, none of them were enough to cause panic.'

Dr Sandesh Gulhane, a Scottish Conservative MSP for Glasgow, said Ms Aitken's comments about the legacy of Thatcherism were 'completely delusional'.

'We've heard a lot of far-fetched excuses from Susan Aitken over the past few months, but the idea that Margaret Thatcher is to blame for the current state of Glasgow's streets absolutely takes the biscuit,' he said.

'She must now stop the excuses and urgently produce some solutions - not only for Cop26 in a week's time, but for the people of Glasgow who live here all year round.'

Nicola Sturgeon delivers a keynote speech in the Technology and Innovation Centre at Strathclyde University setting out how COP26 in Glasgow can lead the world into the green revolution

Pictures have shown the grim reality of every corner of Scotland's second city being blighted with rubbish, fly-tipping and bins overflowing in recent months (this image shows fly-tipping in Cranhill)

Flytipping has skyrocketed in the city since a 35 bulk waste charge was implemented by Glasgow City Council in April. Above: Litter is left in Camlachie area of east Glasgow

Colin Edgar, Glasgow council's head of communications, defended the city's record.

'Glasgow is not the dirtiest city in the world or in the UK or even in Scotland, nor is Glasgow dirtier than it ever has been in the past,' he insisted.

'Very few world leaders are going to come here and think: ''Good Lord, this place is filthier than the place I left''.'

Grim photos of Glasgow - once a Labour stronghold and now in the grips of Nicola Sturgeon's Left-wing party - show a city in the midst of chaos, with bins overflowing after the SNP-controlled council decided to move once-fortnightly collections back by an extra week.

While the Scottish First Minister and the SNP posture on the national stage 'banning' nuclear submarines and trying to introduce a four-day week, the buildings owned by Glasgow's council are decaying, with raw sewage coursing through cellars and rats hospitalising dustmen.

To cap it all, Glasgow is currently the eighth-highest Covid hotspot in Europe, has been found to be the deadliest place to work in the UK, and the difference in life expectancy between the richest and poorest in the city has recently been found to have increased by three years.

Dr Sandesh Gulhane, a Scottish Conservative MSP for Glasgow, said Ms Aitken's comments about the legacy of Thatcherism were 'completely delusional'

It comes as Ms Sturgeon challenged polluting nations ahead of the Cop26 and asked them to 'step up', despite bins overflowing in rat-infested Glasgow.

The First Minister used a speech ahead of the summit to call on leaders of high-emitting nations to create a 'significant uplift' in ambition to tackle the climate emergency.

The summit is slated for the first two weeks of November, when world leaders including Boris Johnson and Joe Biden will be in town for one of the most consequential climate summits in history. However, Xi Jinping, president of China, now the world's biggest polluter, will not attend the UN conference, in a snub to western leaders.

Speaking at Strathclyde University in Glasgow, Ms Sturgeon said 'The hard fact is this: ''Keeping 1.5 alive'' - which has become the strapline almost for Cop26 - is vital. It mustn't become a face-saving slogan. It must be real.

'In the coming days, it is the countries that emit the most, that most need to step up the most to this challenge.

'And both in the run-up to and at Cop itself, there needs to be a significant uplift in ambition from the world's biggest-emitting countries to make that real'.

Asked about the state of Glasgow as it prepares to host Cop26 from October 31, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said: 'I think there are challenges in Glasgow and challenges in cities across Scotland, the UK, the world - some of them related to Covid, some of them more fundamental than that.

'I'm not going to stand here and say they don't exist in Glasgow. I think Glasgow is ready for Cop26. Glasgow - as it has been with big events in past years - will be an excellent host for Cop26, and that's important.

'But - as all countries do - we have challenges in our public services and how we make sure they're delivering in the post-Covid era.'
New South Wales has recorded 282 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 and one death, two weeks after lockdown restrictions started easing in the state.

There were 12 fewer cases recorded in the 24-hours up to 8pm on Monday than on the previous day.

Across the state, 71,352 COVID-19 tests were taken.

New South Wales has recorded 282 new locally acquired cases of COVID-19 and one death, two weeks after lockdown restrictions started easing in the state

NSW Health said 93.1 per cent of people 16 and over have received one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine and 85 per cent of adults are now fully vaccinated.

There are 457 patients with the virus in NSW hospitals, 109 of them in intensive care.

Meanwhile, a day after all NSW students returned to face-to-face teaching eight more schools are closed for cleaning and contact tracing after a person in the school community was diagnosed with COVID-19.

NSW Health has issued a list of strict measures that will be implemented when year 12 students sit their HSC next month - including the requirement to wear masks during the exams.

Exams begin on November 9 and NSW Health says a suite of measures will be enforced to ensure COVID-19 protocols are observed.

Students will not be allowed to borrow or share equipment such as pens, pencils or calculators, and shaking hands or hugging other students is also banned.

There were 12 fewer cases recorded in the 24-hours up to 8pm on Monday than on the previous day

After the exams students will be required to wipe down their chair, and no mingling will be permitted before or after.

The majority of COVID-19 cases are now being diagnosed in the regions and smaller cities, rather than in Sydney where the Delta outbreak first took hold.

Of the 294 cases reported on Monday, 166 - or 56 per cent - were outside the state capital.

The caseload is highest in the Hunter New England local health district, which had the most cases of any district in the 24 hours to 8pm on Sunday - 59. It recorded 53 cases the day before, down from 78 the previous day.

NSW students returned to face-to-face teaching on Monday, but some schools have been closed for deep cleaning after Covid cases (pictured, students return to school at Fairvale High School in Sydney)

Case numbers in southwest and western Sydney once dwarfed any other area, but Hunter New England has on three occasions in the last week been the district with the highest caseload.

There is also a notable surge in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District, which takes in the Snowy Mountains and the Riverina region in the state's southwest.

That area reported 46 new cases on Monday, 47 on Sunday and 37 on Saturday.

Concerns vaccination rates were lower in the regions drove the NSW government's decision to postpone unrestricted travel from Sydney until November 1.

Regional communities wanted more time to get their double-dose vaccination rates as high as possible before welcoming back visitors.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art has sent representatives to meet with prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney's office, amid reports that their collection could contain 12 objects which were stolen from Cambodia.

The New York City institution is one of five named in reports as possessing art bought from a British dealer, Douglas Latchford.

Latchford died in August 2020, aged 88, and was facing charges of trading in stolen antiquities at the time.

Earlier this month the Pandora Papers - a trove of 11.9 million leaked documents, detailing the hidden assets of some of the world's most influential people - revealed the lengths to which Latchford went to hide his trail.

In 2011 he and his family had turned to a company specialized in helping wealthy families create offshore companies and trusts, allowing them to evade taxes and government oversight.

The Pandora Papers lifted the lid on his records, showing that he had sold directly to five museums - the British Museum, Denver Art Museum, Cleveland Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Australia, and the Met.

A statue depicting the god Harihara is pictured. A similar statue was bought by the Met in 1977, and investigators now believe it may have been stolen from Cambodia

The Met, the most-visited museum in the United States and one of the top ten most visited in the world, is now in talks with prosecutors regarding the provenance of the 12 works

Douglas Latchford is seen in June 2009 shaking hands with the deputy prime minister of Cambodia, Sok An. Latchford was indicted in 2019 and died a year later, in 2020

The Met bought 12 items from Latchford - by far the most. Denver's museum is already making plans to return their six items identified in the Pandora Papers.

An associate of Bangkok-based Latchford's was indicted in the U.S. in 2016, and Latchford himself in 2019.

The scale of Latchford's activities were laid bare by the Pandora Papers, and on Monday the Met confirmed that their representatives had met with officials from the U.S. attorney's office.

They said the meeting was sought when 'new information' about some pieces in their collection pushed them to approach the Southern District of New York, The Washington Post reported.

'Recently, in light of new information on some pieces in our collection, we reached out to the US Attorney's office  to volunteer that we are happy to cooperate with any inquiry,' the Met said in a statement on Sunday.

'The Met also has a long and well documented history of responding to claims regarding works of art, restituting objects where appropriate, being transparent about the provenance of works in the collection, and supporting further research and scholarship by sharing all known ownership history.'

Photographers take pictures of Khmer statues during a handover ceremony in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, in June 2014. Three ancient Angkorian statues were returned to Cambodia from the United States after they were stolen from the Koh Ker temple complex in Preah Vihear province in the 1970s

Angkor Wat, one of the most stunning temple complexes in the world, has long drawn both admirers and looters

When Cambodia descended into war and chaos in the 1970s, thieves were quick to profit, looting many of the temples

Cambodia became a haven for traders in illicit antiquities during decades of war in the country beginning in the 1970s, when thieves ravaged the treasures of the ancient Khmer Empire.

The Cambodian government is now attempting to reclaim looted treasures, but often they are extremely well hidden.

Some museums have historically turned a blind eye.

In 2013 the Met did return to Cambodia two 10th-century Koh Ker stone statues of 'Kneeling Attendants', which were donated in separate stages to the Museum in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Another Harihara sculpture is seen in India

'The Met recently came into possession of new documentary research that was not available to the Museum when the objects were acquired,' the museum said at the time.

But Bradley Gordon, an attorney representing the Cambodian government, told The Washington Post that he did not feel the museum was moving fast enough.

He said that the Met has not contacted government officials there regarding the 12 pieces identified in the Pandora Papers.

'The amazing thing is that these museums say they're researching [the relics' origins] but they have not contacted us,' Gordon said.

'How can they say they're researching when they aren't calling the country of origin?'

Among the 12 objects of interest is a sandstone statue of a figure called a Harihara.

The museum says the piece came from southern Cambodia and describes its style as 'pre-Angkor period.'

It was purchased from one of Latchford's collaborators, Spink & Son, in 1977.

A very similar piece is described in the Latchford indictment, with prosecutors saying it was looted.

The Spink & Son representative, according to prosecutors, was aware of Latchford's plans to create false documentation for Khmer antiquities.

Phoeurng Sackona, Cambodia's minister of culture and fine arts, is pictured in January 2018 showing the British ambassador to Cambodia around the National Museum in Phnom Penh

In a written statement last month, a spokeswoman for the Met said it was 'unknown' whether the Harihara in its collection is the same as the Harihara that prosecutors say was looted.

Phoeurng Sackona, Cambodia's minister of culture and fine arts, said she was surprised to learn that the Met had acquired so many Khmer relics during unrest in the country.

'The Cambodian government never gave permission for our national treasures to be trafficked to the United States,' she said.

'Today, we wish for the Metropolitan Museum to act as a moral and just leader in the global museum community and to return our precious looted antiquities to our people.'
A boys' camping weekend has ended in tragedy after a young father dislocated his shoulder swimming across a swollen river - and was mysteriously found dead four days later.

Dean Gray, his younger brother and some of their closest friends packed their bags for a few days away on a property along the Namoi River near Narrabri, about 500km north-west of Sydney, on October 16.

But what should have been a weekend of BBQs and campfires took an alarming twist when the fit and healthy 25-year-old hurt himself while swimming 50m across the gushing river.

Katt Armour, a close family friend, told Daily Mail Australia his mates knew the coal miner was hurt by the time he got to the other side, and instructed him to stay put and not to try and cross the river again.

Dean Gray, pictured with his fiancee Taylor Baxter and their son Bostin, vanished during a camping trip

Pictured: A photo posted by Dean's friends to show what he was wearing the day he went missing

'They told him not to move while they tried to find a safe way to get to him,' the 28-year-old said.

'By the time they got back, he was gone.'

Katt said the river was bone-dry much of the time she lived in Narrabri but had started flowing again due to recent heavy rainfall.

Police launched a large-scale land, air and water search of the surrounding areas, along with the help of a number of friends who raced to the town to lend a hand.

Dean and Taylor (pictured together) got engaged in about 2018, before they had their son Bostin

Pictured: The Namoi River near Narrabri, where Dean went missing. The river is regularly dry, but filled in recent months after heavy rainfall

Katt, who lived in Narrabri before she moved to Thirlmere in Sydney's south, desperately wanted to join the search but was hamstrung by regional Covid restrictions.

All she could do was apply for approval to leave Greater Sydney and keep in touch with Dean's fiancee Taylor Baxter.

'They searched tirelessly every day - organised meet ups, used helicopters and divers,' she said.

Family members and friends campaigned on social media or more people to join the search.

Taylor (pictured with her family) is devastated by the death of her fiance, and is now a single mum

Katt said Dean was an amazing father and that two-year-old Bostin will likely grow up to be just like his dad

Two days after he vanished, Taylor wrote a heartfelt plea on Facebook.

'Im praying that today's the day,' she said.

'My heart can't take anymore - Dean, I need you to come home. I need you to come and do life with me.

'If anyone has any time to come help search, that would be greatly appreciated.'

On October 20, Katt was finally given approval from NSW Health to join the search in Narrabri, until Taylor called and said: 'They found him. He's gone.'

'Taylor was a wreck. Hysterical,' Katt recalled.

'She cried a lot and I made sure she had people around her, and she did, and I said she could call me at any time.'

Dean Gray was a coal miner in northern NSW before he passed away on October 16

Dean was 'all about fitness', according to Katt, and took his health very seriously

Police said Dean's body was found at about 9.40am last Wednesday by a volunteer assisting with the search.

'The body was recovered by police divers with the assistance of Western Region Police Rescue a short time later,' officers said in a statement.

While the family are waiting for the autopsy results, Katt said it appears Dean dislocated his shoulder during his initial swim across the river, before he tried to swim - but drowned in the process.

Friends and family flocked to social media to pay tribute to the father-of-one.

Taylor wrote: 'My heart is broken, I will never be the same without you.'

'May you always be by our sides guiding us through a life that will never be as bright without you.''

Pictured: Katt Armour and Dean Gray. Katt said Dean was one of the best friends she ever had

Katt and another friend, Karla Anderson, set up a Go Fund Me campaign to help Taylor and her two-year-old, Bostin.

'I can't imagine being made a single mum in this tragic way,' she said.

'Taylor has to take her time to grieve and support Bostin, but it's been really amazing to see how much everyone has united to help her.'

When asked how Dean will be remembered, Katt said Dean was 'one of the most positive people in my life'.

'He was always cheerful, very headstrong, his smile lit up any room and he was an incredible dad - he loved Bostin more than anything.'

Cameron Waugh (pictured right, with Dean) said his friend was a 'beautiful human'

Another friend, Cameron Waugh, told Daily Mail Australia that Dean's 'light always shined bright'.

'He was loved by everyone and he was one of the smartest people I know, he just understood life and how to live it in the best way possible, and always encouraged the people around him to be their best.

'He was an amazing father and role model to Bostin and soul mate to Taylor and an amazing friend and brother to many more. My heart aches. Dean is such a beautiful human whose impact will forever hold a spot in my life. We all love you brother, fly high.'

The fundraiser garnered more than $25,000 since it launched the day Dean's body was found.
Ministers have refused to set a target for when the enormous NHS backlog will be cleared despite billions of pounds of fresh spending.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said it was impossible to know when patients who have had treatment disrupted by the pandemic will finally get seen.

Rishi Sunak will use his Budget to commit a further 5.9billion to help clear the record waiting list of 5.7million people.

But Mr Javid said he could not commit to solving the backlog by 2025, warning how waiting times are likely to get worse before they get better.

Critics claim any funding will be undermined by staff shortages.

Britain's Health Secretary Sajid Javid (Pictured) has admitted it is impossible to know when patients who have had treatment disrupted by the pandemic will finally get seen

Mr Javid BBC Radio 4s Today programme: Ive been very open about this, its going to go up before it comes down.

Pressed on how much of the backlog will be sorted in the next three years, Mr Javid said: Im not going to put a number on it - its impossible to know because I dont know how many people will eventually come back to the NHS.

He urged people not to stay away from seeking help, saying: If you stayed away from the NHS, including your doctor, at the height of the pandemic, everyone understands why you did - you were asked to - but now you please need to come forward.

The latest funding will be spent on physical items such as beds, IT equipment and scanners, rather than the day-to-day running of the NHS. Ministers say it will increase capacity by 30 per cent compared to pre-pandemic levels.

Mr Javid said this will drive down that waiting list and make sure more people get seen as quickly as possible.

Some 2.3billion of the 5.9billion total package will be used to boost diagnostic services, including building community hubs.

And 1.5billion will be spent on increasing bed capacity, equipment and surgical hubs.

But critics said the funding was doomed to fail because there is severe shortage of specialists to carry out these tests.

Liberal Democrat Health Spokesman Daisy Cooper MP said: It is all very well announcing money for new diagnostic tests and medical equipment, but there are tens of thousands of vacancies in the NHS.

Without the trained medical staff to use these new facilities, this plan is doomed to fail.

Without a serious plan to recruit the NHS staff that we desperately need, England could face an epidemic of empty wards. Shiny new scanners laid to waste because the staff who make our NHS what it is simply arent there anymore.
Pauline Hanson has suffered a cooking fail which cost her a pair of tongs, and admitted she has 'lost her touch' since her days running a fish and chip shop.

The One Nation leader shared images to her Facebook page on Monday night showing the aftermath of leaving the utensil in the pan and forgetting to turn the heat off.

'WHOOPS - Dinner was delicious, but I forgot to turn the flame off and burnt the tongs,' she wrote.

Pauline Hanson has shared her embarrassing cooking faux pas melting cooking utensils into a fry pan while attempting dinner

The One Nation leader shared images to her Facebook page on Monday night showing her tongs had melted into the pan after accidentally leaving the heat on her stove top

The One Nation leader, who famously used to own a takeaway shop in Ipswich in the 1990s, made fun of herself in her replies to people mocking her for the mistake.

'Those old fish and chip days didn't come frying back,' one commenter said.

'24 years on from owning the shop, maybe I've lost my touch,' Ms Hanson replied.

The post went viral, receiving 13,000 likes and more than 3,000 comments including some from her colleagues and ministers.

'Don't know if you're allowed in my galley now after seeing this, James will have to supervise you now,' one of her friends commented.

'You will have to try my ice cream, Nigel. I've been making jam from the mulberries on the weekend and using it in my ice cream machine,' Ms Hanson answered.

Others shared their similarly embarrassing stories, with one mother admitting she melted her baby's bottle.

'I've melted baby bottles when sterilising them back in the day, the smell of burnt plastic lingered for days,' the woman replied.

Hanson shared the images of the tongs melted into the pan with the plastic ends having liquified

Last week Hanson, who has refused to take a Covid-19 vaccine, accused the Queensland Government of taking away freedom and accused Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk for wanting to 'control' people.

'People talk about freedom - ''we're going to give you your freedom''. Well it wasn't yours to give away, it's control of the people,' she told Canberra radio 2CC.

Ms Hanson referred to reports earlier this month that an undisclosed number of Queensland Police officers had left the force because they refuse to get vaccinated.

'Three hundred police have walked away, we've got more in the nursing profession who will not have this vaccination,' she said.

'People's rights to their freedoms have actually been denied by the Government, the politicians who are controlling people.'

On Monday the Queensland Premier (pictured) announced fully vaccinated arrivals from Covid hotspots will be allowed to home quarantine from November 19 and enter without any quarantine from December 17

The 67-year-old, who has declined to turn up to Parliament in Canberra this month, said she doesn't want to leave Queensland as long as quarantine is enforced.

'Besides, no thanks I've said it before, going into lockdown for two weeks - it's not happening,' she said.

Even after the border rules relax, Ms Hanson said she would be nervous that they may change at any time.

'I wouldn't trust the totalitarian government we have up here who just changes at her will whatever she wants to do to the people of Queensland,' she said, referring to Premier Palaszczuk.
A seven-year-old was killed by the newly rescued family dog while he was playing in his home's backyard in Oklahoma.

Little James McNeelis was playing outside his Kiefer home with the pet on the evening of October 20, when he suddenly disappeared.

When he failed to answer calls to come home for dinner, his worried family called 911. At 7.35pm that evening, James's body was found by his distraught father Michael McNeelis.

'We heard the bloodcurdling screams of "No!", a neighbor said.

The boy was declared dead at the scene.

Seven-year-old James McNeelis died on October 20, after he was mauled by a dog that had been rescued by his family

James had been playing in the backyard of his home south of Kiefer, Oklahoma. His parent reported him missing after he failed to answer calls to return home for dinner

The dog is now being held at an animal control facility but it is unclear if it will be euthanized.

Creek County Sheriff's Office is working along with the Oklahoma Medical Examiners Office to investigate the event.

'It doesn't look like any foul play,' Creek County Sheriff Bret Bowling told KOCO.

'Our preliminary indications or investigations indicate is some kind of animal,' said the sheriff.

The family had rescued the dog just three weeks prior after it was 'dumped on the side of the road.'

'He was so full of life and light and he was going to change the world. And he still is. His light will change the world,' James' father shared on Facebook

Michael and Hannah McNeely (pictured with James) found their son mauled in their backyard

They said the dog, a corgi and Shetland sheepdog mix, had not shown any signs of aggression.

James' father, Michael McNeelis shared his heartbreak on Facebook.

'He was so full of life and light and he was going to change the world. And he still is.

'His light will change the world.

'We feel alone and lost without him and were doing all we can but its just hard. Everything just hurts without my little boy here,' he wrote in a post.

A GoFundMe page was set up by James' mother, Hannah Markley. More than $4,000 have been raised to cover funeral cost

Neighbor Shannon Edinson told KOTV she was celebrating a birthday on her porch when she heard screams coming from James' house.

'We knew something was wrong. As a mother, you know that scream. If anybody has ever heard that scream, you know that scream,' she said. 'Something was catastrophically wrong.'

A GoFundMe page was set up by James' mother, Hannah Markley. More than $4,000 have been raised.

'On October 20th, 2021, Michael and Hannah found their little boy mauled in their backyard. This is in order to help with memorial and cremation expenses for James,' the description read.
One vaccinated Australian could be given $1million in cash by simply placing their name in a draw - but entries close in just days.

The Million Dollar Vax campaign was launched at the start of October by a group of philanthropic individuals and businesses who wanted to give the vaccine rollout a boost.

When the promotion started on October 1 about 55 per cent of Australians were double-vaccinated, with that number surging to 73.4 per cent fully vaccinated as of Tuesday this week.

Entries into the lottery, which involve filling out your details on the website, close on Sunday October 31 and the major prize will be drawn on November 5.

Double vaccinated Australians are able to enter in a draw to win $1million in cash (pictured: a popup vaccine clinic at Taronga Zoo in September)

Neil Pharoah (pictured) is one of thousands of Australian who have already won a $1,000 gift card in the draw with the Victorian man saying he decided to get vaccinated to protect his family and friends

Along with the $1million grand prize, the campaign is also offering $1,000 gift cards and other incentives, with the total giveaway amount estimated to be about $4.1million.

Spokesperson for the Million Dollar Vax Alliance, Craig Winkler, said about $1.5million worth of gift certificates had been won already.

'The purpose of the promotion is not to convince people to be vaccinated. That's a decision you should make in consultation with a health professional,' Mr Winkler said.

'The promotion simply seeks to reward people who decide to be vaccinated now rather than waiting, so that we can reduce the community impact of the Covid-19 pandemic,' he said.

'The faster we reach higher vaccination rates nationally, higher than 80 per cent, the sooner we all can safely resume our full range of community and business activity.'

Business in NSW and Victoria have begun opening up after vaccine milestones were reached in October (pictured: Melbourne hairdresser Caroline Shamoon last week)

The idea for the campaign was drawn from similar promotions run in other countries.

A lottery run in the U.S. state of Ohio earlier this year gave away about $5million in cash and prizes.

While California gave out several $1.5million lottery prizes along with $50 gift vouchers to everyone vaccinated between May 27 and July 18, 2021.

Companies have also been getting on board offering vaccinated individuals everything from doughnuts to beer and concert tickets.

Airlines have also been offering incentives with both Qantas and Virgin launching vaccine promotions involving free flights, accommodation and frequent flyer points.

International travel restarting in Australia's two most populous states has been dangled as an incentive for vaccination laggards to pick up the pace.

Victoria will join NSW in allowing quarantine-free arrivals from overseas next month, with the federal government opening borders on November 1.

Pubs and cafes in Sydney are once again allowing in patrons (pictured) as the state's vaccine rate soars above 80 per cent fully vaccinated for Covid

While over-16 vaccination coverage above 80 per cent will be the trigger for relaxed restrictions for Sydney and Melbourne, some states are well behind that mark.

Queensland and WA - which have avoided major lockdown-inducing coronavirus outbreaks - are yet to reach 60 per cent two-dose coverage.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said hitting 70 and 80 per cent in those states would be crucial to moving to the next step.

'The most important thing to open up Queensland and Western Australia is to get those vaccination rates higher,' he told reporters at Sydney Airport on Friday.

Qantas has announced it will bring forward international flights and reinstate 11,000 stood down staff before the end of the year.

As states move to scrap quarantine, Mr Morrison is defending spending millions of taxpayer dollars on quarantine hubs in Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane.

He said the centres would be used for unvaccinated arrivals.
Only a fraction of the electric car charging points needed to hit a 2030 deadline are being built, ministers admitted yesterday.

Just 23 publicly available points are being installed each day and the Government admits this must be boosted before the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel cars takes effect at the end of the decade.

The car industry estimates more than 700 on-street charging points need to be built every day.

The Governments response to a report by the Commons transport committee said: With over 24,000 chargers already available, around 700 chargers are being added to the public network every month.

The car industry estimates more than 700 on-street charging points need to be built every day to meet the Government's 2030 target

'However, we agree... the rate of deployment must accelerate to meet our ambitions.

The Department for Transport said ministers had committed an additional 620million to support the transition to electric vehicles, which will include accelerating the rollout of local charging infrastructure.

By David Churchill, Transport Correspondent

The government is to publish its Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Strategy in the coming weeks, which will detail how many publicly available chargers it thinks are needed and where.

It is likely to become a key part of its levelling up agenda, as there are currently around 87 plug-in points for every 100,000 of the population in London but only 23 per 100,000 in the North West. The Midlands also has 29 per 100,000.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders says around 2.3 million public charge points are needed by 2030 - or around 700 a day being created between now and the end of the decade.

Around a third of UK households do not have access to off-street parking, meaning availability of public charge points is crucial if these motorists are to go electric.

Ramping up the roll-out of on-street plug-in points will also help motorists overcome so-called range anxiety.

This relates to concerns over electric car batteries running out of charge too soon between charges.

The government has set a target of banning all sales of new diesel and petrol cars by 2030 as part of its strategy of reaching net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The sale of new hybrids is also to be phased out by 2035.

Yesterdays response to the committee report also suggested ministers may overhaul planning laws and impose a statutory requirement on town halls to create enough plug-in points on streets in their areas, acknowledging that reforms to the planning system will be beneficial to charge point rollout.

It added: Government agrees that certain land rights processes, such as wayleaves, can increase the timescales and costs associated with electricity connections for EV charge points.

'We are keen to ensure that these processes do not act as a barrier to the rollout of EV charging infrastructure.
The Chancellor will again delay plans to overhaul the business rates regime, driving a nail in the coffin on the high street.

The Government will push back an announcement for reform a second time. The commercial property tax has been blamed for high street woes  retail pays a quarter of rates despite making up 5 per cent of the economy.

Helen Dickinson, of the British Retail Consortium, said: Every week of delay is a nail in the coffin for high streets as four in five retailers say they are likely or certain to close stores.

A consultation into the broken system finished in September last year, and the Government was expected to announce its plan at Wednesdays Spending Review, following a delay from the Spring.

Chancellor Rishi Sunak (Pictured) will again delay plans to overhaul business rates regime. the governemtn said they have not had time to consider how reform will affect the sector, or the long-term impact of the pandemic on high streets

Groups representing high streets businesses are now worried the issue has been kicked into the long grass, although last night Government sources told the Mail ministers have delayed reform until a later date.

They said they have not had time to consider how reform will affect the sector, or the long-term impact of the pandemic on high streets.

Kate Nicholls, chief executive of UK Hospitality, said: Its hugely disappointing because root and branch reform has been promised in two manifestos and is very overdue.

We would urge the Government to grasp the nettle to reform rates to rejuvenate the high street.

She added that without reform, rates relief handed to high street firms this year must be extended until longer-term changes are implemented to avoid a cliff edge of support.

The Government has been unwilling to make substantial changes to a tax which raises 32billion per year.

But the high street has long argued they are over-taxed, with retail paying a quarter of all rates despite only making up 5 per cent of the economy.

Rishi Sunak is considering a digital services tax of 2 per cent of revenues to try and level the playing field between the high street and online giants, which could be announced as soon as this week.

But the measure is opposed by many large retailers, including Marks & Spencer, who say it is wrong to introduce a new levy on an already over-taxed industry.

They have suggested reducing business rates by around a third, and replacing it with an increase in corporation tax - a tax on a companys profits.
A recall notice for some batches of the glue was issued earlier this year

A renowned children's hospital launched an investigation after some of its patients were treated with a 'faulty' surgical glue.

Five children were treated with affected batches of histoacryl glue at Great Ormond Street Hospital (Gosh) in London, two of whom later died.

A recall notice for some batches of the glue was issued earlier this year after some batches of the product were identified as hardening less rapidly than expected.

While it is not thought the use of the product was the 'sole or main factor' in patients being harmed, the hospital trust still launched an investigation into the way safety notices are distributed.

Gosh said in a statement: 'First and foremost, our thoughts are with the families of the children affected.

'A comprehensive serious incident investigation has been carried out to determine the impact of the faulty glue on all patients treated with it.

'The investigation found that whilst the passage of glue through the intended vessel may have been contributory in some instances of harm, it was unlikely to be the sole or main factor.

'Both patients who died had serious and complex medical conditions and the procedure to correct these always carries a high degree of risk, which is discussed extensively with the families before any treatment takes place.'

Five children were treated with affected batches of histoacryl glue at Great Ormond Street Hospital (Gosh) in London, two of whom later died

Gosh said a partial recall of the glue was issued by the manufacturer, B. Braun, on March 3.

On April 26 the procurement team at the trust received an email from B. Braun that directly addressed the product recall for the first time. This email listed affected batch numbers.

The last procedure that used a batch of the affected glue took place on April 23, the hospital said.

Some information related to the investigation was also reported in the trust's board papers, as reported in the Health Service Journal (HSJ).

The trust's investigation found that 'there was no formal policy or process in place in the trust for the management of field safety notices (FSNs) issued by companies. These are mostly managed on a local level, as companies communicate directly with their customers.'

The papers added: 'The lack of clear governance around FSNs poses a risk to patients and needs to be urgently addressed.'

The trust has since created 'clear guidance to staff on how alerts should be distributed and what action should be taken once an alert is received,' the documents state.

According to a report to Gosh's public board meeting on September 29, titled 'Faulty batch of Histoacryl glue potentially impacting patient treatment outcomes', the adhesive has been used for more than 30 years in the endovascular treatment of brain arteriovenous malformations - a tangle of blood vessels with abnormal connections between arteries and veins.
Uplifting footage has been captured of an impressive rescued pelican dubbed the 'world's first dancing pelican' executing flawless pirouettes in return for food.

Bob Humphries filmed the large female bird named Percy on October 18 from tourist vessel Kalgan Queen, as it twirled around in front of amazed sightseers in the water at Emu Point in Western Australia.

The video first showed Percy gliding above the water as it flapped its massive black and white wings.

Bob Humphries filmed the large female bird named Percy on October 18 from tourist vessel Kalgan Queen at Emu Point in Western Australia

The pelican landed in the dark blue waters right in front of the boat as it passed by, hoping to snag some food.

The footage later showed a 'stubborn' Percy waiting to be given food before she dazzled tourists with her dance moves.

The tour guide Captain Jack threw a fish into the water away from the vessel as he told the keen sightseers onboard that he'd give Percy one more fish to get her to fly back and dance.

The video showed the tour guide Captain Jack throw fish for Percy to eat and told the keen sightseers on board that he'd give Percy one more fish to get her to fly back and dance

'I'll get her to fly back, and she should go straight into it. Come on, Perc,' he said.

The tour guide held his hand out of the boat with a fish in the air and asked the bird to dance for the onlookers after she quickly rushed back to the vessel.

'Dance for us! Round you go, quick,' said the man.

Captain Jack held his hand out of the boat with a fish in the air and asked the bird to dance for the onlookers after she quickly rushed back to the vessel

The pelican danced in the water and showed off how well she could complete multiple turns in a row.

Captain Jack commended the dancing pelican and asked her to dance one more time to receive her treat.

'Good girl. Over you come, let's do it again,' he said.

'Dance for me, round you go.'

The pelican dubbed the 'world's first dancing pelican' danced in the water and showed off how well she could execute multiple pirouettes in a row

Percy executed three more pirouettes for the crowd, continuously twirling around in the water.

'Very clever girl. There's your fish,' the tour guide said as he threw food to Percy, who caught his well-earned snack and happily munched away.

Captain Jack then announced to the tourists onboard the vessel: 'Ladies and gentleman, the world's first dancing pelican.'

Happy sightseers on board clapped in awe of what they had just viewed and laughed away as they discussed the dancing bird

Happy sightseers on board clapped in awe of what they had just viewed and laughed away as they discussed the dancing bird.

Bob Humphries said that the female Australian pelican was rescued 21 years ago by Captain Jack of the tourist vessel and his father.

'The young Percy was entangled in a fishing line and couldn't fly,' Mr Humphries said.

The female Australian pelican was rescued 21 years ago by Captain Jack of the tourist vessel and his father and was rehabilitated by the then 10-year-old Jack until she could be released

'Jack's parents allowed him to rehabilitate the rescued Pelican in the bathtub at home, and the then 10-year-old Jack named it Percy, not knowing the bird's gender at the time.'

Mr Humphries said Jack would make Percy spin around in the bath to receive fish at feeding time.

Percy was later released into Oyster Harbour after she recovered and joined the other pelicans living in the harbour.

Mr Humphries added: 'Ever since then Percy flies to the Kalgan Queen, and to the delight of the passengers, performs her twirling dance in return for a fresh fish or two.'
A young man has been banned from every licensed venue in Queensland following an altercation with a female bottle shop worker who he put in a headlock.

Dyon James Blyth, 24, from Sarina, in Mackay, had visited the Sarina Hotel bottle shop drive-through when he noticed the worker was a former friend.

After asking for a carton of pre-mixed rum he went in to give the woman a hug but she refused.

Blyth then put the woman in a 'headlock' and as she demanded he let her go he then threatened to 'dack' her and tried to pull her pants down, the Mackay Magistrates court was told.

Dyon James Blyth, 24, has been banned from every licensed venue in Queensland following an altercation with a female bottle shop worker who he put in a headlock

The worker had refused to sell him the drinks as he was already intoxicated, the Courier Mail reported.

Blyth pleaded guilty to common assault in a public place and will be banned from any licensed venue including pubs, clubs and bottle shops across the state for a year.

Magistrate Bronwyn Hartigan said the 24-year-old's behaviour was 'very serious'.

His solicitor said Blyth was suffering alcohol issues and is receiving counselling.

Magistrate Hartigan said she was strongly considering a jail term 'albeit wholly suspended'.

'Because he has a shocking history and he's not a particularly young person,' she said.

Blyth had been on probation at the time and had previously faced court in relation to charges of assault occasioning bodily harm and being a public nuisance.

He was given a conviction and was placed on probation for two years.

Blyth will also have to complete 40 hours of community service.
Scott Morrison has announced an historic commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2050 in a bid to tackle global warming.

The Prime Minister will show off his 'uniquely Australian' proposal at crunch climate talks in Glasgow with world leaders at the end of this month.

He said Australia can reach net zero emissions by relying on technology such as solar power and green hydrogen and without introducing any taxes - but he did not announce any new initiatives or funding.

Scott Morrison (pictured on Monday) has announced a commitment to net zero carbon emissions by 2050

By 2050, Australia's electricity generation will cause up to 97 per cent fewer emissions than in 2005, using renewables but with a small amount of gas-fired power remaining.

Nuclear power is off the table but Mr Morrison did not rule out building more coal-fired power stations in a move that will disappoint allies such as the UK who want to phase out coal around the world.

Australia will get 85 per cent of the way to net zero with existing technologies and offsets while the other 15 per cent will be achieved with 'further breakthrough technologies' that don't exist yet.

International and domestic offsets will account for 10 to 20 per cent of the emissions reduction. This may include paying farmers to plant more trees or paying other countries to cut their emissions.

This chart shows how Australia will reach net zero emissions. Forty per cent of the reduction comes from existing Australian technology, 15 per cent from global technology, 10 to 20 per cent from offsets and 15 per cent from technology that doesn't exist yet

This chart shows the emissions reduction expected in each sector of the economy. By 2050, Australia's electricity generation will cause up to 97 per cent fewer emissions than 2005, transport will pollute up to 71 per cent less, industry will pollute up to 45 per cent less and agriculture will pollute up to 36 per cent less

How will Australia get to net zero by 2050? Clean hydrogen: Can be used to heat buildings, power factories and even run cars with no emissions Ultra low-cost solar: Solar electricity generation at $15 per MWh Electricity storage: Huge lithium-ion batteries can store energy generated by solar and wind power so it can be released at peak times Low carbon materials: Steel and aluminium made by burning hydrogen instead of coal to reduce carbon emissions Carbon capture: The process of capturing carbon dioxide from factories and power stations and storing it underground Soil carbon: Growing more plants and trees to return carbon from the air to the soil Source: Australian Government Advertisement

Mr Morrison said the plan will create 62,000 regional mining and heavy industry jobs and leave Aussies $2,000 better off in 2050 compared to taking no climate action.

The Prime Minister also said the plan won't raise electricity costs or put regional jobs at risk.

'Australians want action on climate change. They're taking action on climate change but they also want to protect their jobs and their livelihoods,' he said.

'They also want to keep the costs of living down.

'And I also want to protect the Australian way of life, especially in rural and regional areas. The Australian way of life is unique,' he said.

'It will not impact households businesses or the broader economy with new costs or taxes imposed by the initiatives that we are undertaking.

'It will not cost jobs, not in farming, mining or gas. Because what we're doing in these plans is positive things, enabling things.'

Greens leader Adam Bandt, who wants to prohibit coal and to reach net zero by 2035, said Mr Morrison's plan was a 'con'.

'Net zero by 2050 is a death sentence. Morrison's plan is dangerous and will cost our kids their future,' he said.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese said the Prime Minister's announcement was 'all marketing' with no detail or new funding.

'The Prime Minister announced a vibe today rather than a target,' he said, criticising the Government for not legislating the net zero goal.

'This Government has been there for almost nine years. And literally, two days before the Prime Minister jets off to Glasgow for the most important international conference on climate change this century, he has come up with this non-policy which has no new initiatives, he said.

Labor leader Anthony Albanese said the Prime Minister's announcement was 'all marketing' with no detail or new funding

The plan to get to net zero is based on 'existing policies' which are detailed above

Mr Albanese said he would release his climate policy in detail after the Glasgow conference.

The Prime Minister said Australia was showing global leadership by 'focussing on the how' in a dig at other countries who have signed up to net zero without a clear plan.

'There's no blank cheques here,' he said.

'I am looking forward to discussing this with others overseas because I think the Australian way shows a way for other countries to follow,' Mr Morrison added.

'You know the challenges that we face here in Australia, particularly with the nature of our economy, are not that dissimilar to those being faced in Indonesia or in Vietnam or in India or places like that or indeed China.'

China is responsible for 30 per cent of global emissions while Australia accounts for just one per cent but is the second worst polluter per person after Canada.

After a week of internal meetings and debate, Barnaby Joyce (centre with David Littleproud and Bridget McKenzie) revealed his National Party now backs a net zero target

Mr Morrison said the plan will create 62,000 regional mining and heavy industry jobs and leave Aussies $2,000 better off in 2050 compared to taking no climate action

Energy Minister Angus Taylor said Australia's emissions are predicted to drop 30 to 35 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030.

Although this is not an updated target, it is well ahead of the Government's current target of a 26 to 28 per cent reduction.

The improved figures are a result of states and territories taking climate change action.

Despite a push from UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to phase out coal in developed nations, Mr Morrison said coal-fired power stations may still be built in Australia if they 'stack up and they comply with the environmental laws that exist in states and territories and receive the necessary approvals.'

Scientists say limiting the rise in global temperatures to 1.5C by 2050 requires cutting emissions by 45 per cent by 2030 and net zero by 2050.

The announcement comes after the National Party declared it will support a 2050 net zero carbon emissions target.

After a week of internal meetings and debate, leader Barnaby Joyce revealed on Sunday the junior Coalition party now backs the target and declared: 'I am 100 per cent on board with the goal of net zero by 2050.'

The Nationals were concerned that regional jobs in heavy emitting industries such as coal mining would be smashed.

If temperatures continue to rise, there could be devastating effects here on Earth, including a dramatic loss of sea-life, an ice-free Arctic and more regular 'extreme' weather

Barnaby Joyce quotes on climate 2011: 'I don't feel the world is coming to a catastrophic end. I just feel that this is just another one of those pitches.' 'Because it's warming by an extremely small amount there's virtually nothing you can do about it, and definitely nothing you can do about it from Australia by yourself, except stuff up your economy.' 2012: 'Even if climate change turns out to exist one day, we will have absolutely no impact on it whatsoever we really should have bigger fish to fry than this one.' 2016: (While looking at a depleted creek) 'It's the driest I've ever seen it. When I look at this I start to wonder whether climate change might really be happening.' July 2019: 'I believe this is one of the greatest policy phantoms, the misguided and quite ludicrous proposition that Australia can have any effect on the climate,' he wrote on Facebook in 2019. 'If we could, we should be the first to make it rain and, more importantly, stop the recurrence of an ice age anytime in the coming millennium.' 'The very idea that we can stop climate change is barking mad. Climate change is inevitable, as geology has always shown.' December 2019: 'You don't have to convince me the climate's not changing. It is changing. My problem has always been whether you believe a new tax is going to change it back. 'And the other thing we've got to acknowledge is there's a higher authority that's beyond our comprehension - right up there in the sky - and unless we understand that it's got to be respected, then we're just fools, we're going to get nailed' July 2021: 'The likelihood of Joyce getting endorsement from his party room to agree to net zero is zero.' October 2021: 'I am 100 per cent on board with the goal of net zero by 2050.' Advertisement

'Code Red for humanity': Doomsday UN report says global warming is ALREADY causing extreme weather and the world will heat up by 1.5C by 2040 - a decade earlier than forecast

By Sam Tonkin

The Earth is likely to warm by 1.5C within the next 20 years  a decade earlier than previously expected  and heatwaves, flooding and droughts will become more frequent and intense, a bombshell United Nations report dubbed a 'code red for humanity' warned last month.

Scientists had expected temperatures to rise by 1.5C above pre-industrial levels between 2030 and 2052 but now believe it will happen between this year and 2040.

The world's largest ever report into climate change also said it was 'unequivocal that human influence has warmed the atmosphere, oceans and land'.

Since 1970, global surface temperatures have risen faster than in any other 50-year period over the past 2,000 years, the authors said, while the past five years have been the hottest on record since 1850.

Climate change: The bombshell UN report comes as record heatwaves, wildfires and floods hit countries around the world. A firefighter is pictured above trying to extinguish a wildfire burning on the island of Evia, Greece at the weekend

'It's just guaranteed that it's going to get worse,' said report co-author Linda Mearns, a senior climate scientist at the US National Center for Atmospheric Research. 'I don't see any area that is safe Nowhere to run, nowhere to hide.'

It comes as record heatwaves, wildfires and floods hit countries around the world.

Last month western Europe saw its worst flooding in decades, leaving more than 180 people dead after heavy rainfall hit Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland and the Netherlands.

A blistering heatwave killed hundreds of people across the west coast of the US and Canada earlier this summer, while more than 300 died and almost 13 million others were affected by floods that engulfed Henan province in China at the end of July.

The 1.5C mark is considered to be the point where climate change becomes increasingly dangerous. The 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change committed countries to limiting warming to 1.5C but they have already risen by 1.2C.

Smoke blotted out the skies on the Greek island of Evia on Sunday as fires that have been burning out of control entered their seventh day, with locals forced to watch helplessly as their livelihoods went up in smoke

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the new report a 'code red for humanity'. He warned: 'The alarm bells are deafening, and the evidence is irrefutable: greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel burning and deforestation are choking our planet and putting billions of people at immediate risk.'

The key findings of the report are:

Humans are very likely the main driver of the global retreat of glaciers, decline in sea ice, warming oceans and rising sea levels

It is 'virtually certain' that heatwaves 'have become more frequent and more intense across most land regions'

A rise in sea levels approaching 2 metres by the end of this century 'cannot be ruled out'

The Arctic is likely to be 'practically sea ice-free' in September at least once before 2050

Carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere are higher than they have been for three million years

Some changes, such as sea level rises, will be 'irreversible' for hundreds to thousands of years

However, some experts say there is still hope that cuts in emissions of greenhouse gases could stabilise rising temperatures.

Scientists involved in the report said the 1.5C or 2C thresholds are not cliff edges the world will fall off, but that every bit of warming makes a difference, so it is important to curb temperature rises as much as possible.

Professor Richard Betts, from the Met Office Hadley Centre and a contributing author to the report, said: 'Like the speed limit on a motorway, staying below it is not perfectly safe and exceeding it does not immediately lead to calamity, but the risks do increase if the limit is passed.
President Joe Biden refused to exert executive privilege over Trump administration records and information to prevent them being sought by the select committee investing the Jan. 6th Capitol riot.

On Monday, Biden's White House rejected the former president's invocation of executive privilege for a second time on hundreds of additional pages of Trump administration records.

In a letter to the National Archives and Records Administration, Biden counsel Dana Remus stated that Biden has 'determined that an assertion of executive privilege is not in the best interests of the United States, and therefore is not justified' for two tranches of documents sent to the White House for review last month.

'Accordingly, President Biden does not uphold the former president's assertion of privilege,' Remus wrote.

President Joe Biden has again rejected the former president's invocation of executive privilege on hundreds of additional pages

Trump has claimed communications with aides are protected by executive privilege, a legal doctrine that protects the confidentially of some White House communications. Legal experts have said he cannot lawfully use executive privilege because he is now the former president

The letter reveals that the House committee investigating the January 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol 'deferred' its request for nearly 50 pages of documents as a result of an 'accommodation' process with the Biden White House.

That process allows the White House to protect some records that may be privileged, without formally blocking their release.

The fate of the documents approved for release by the White House will now be decided by the courts.

Former President Donald Trump filed suit earlier this month to try to block the archives from releasing records sought by the House select committee.

Trump has claimed that his communications with aides are protected by executive privilege, a legal doctrine that protects the confidentially of some White House communications. But legal experts have said he cannot lawfully use executive privilege because he is no longer the president.

The committee, pictured, is composed of seven Democrats and two Republicans

The panel has already held former Trump associate Steve Bannon in criminal contempt for defying a subpoena to appear.

A lawyer for Bannon explained how he was not acting in 'defiance' of the subpoena and simply following instructions from Trump's attorney.

'President Trump's counsel stated that they were invoking executive and other privileges and therefore directed us not to produce documents or give testimony that might reveal information President Trump's counsel seeks to legally protect,' Bannon's lawyer stated.

Aside from Bannon, the committee has subpoenaed the organizers of the Stop the Steal rally which took place before Trump supporters headed to the Capitol.

Bannon was a private citizen and no longer working for the White House at time. Pictured 2018

The committee has subpoenaed other officials including former Justice Department official Jeffrey Clark, Trump former chief of staff Mark Meadows, deputy chief of staff Dan Scavino and former Defense Department official Kash Patel.

The attack on the Capitol by Trump supporters took place as Congress met to certify Democrat Joe Biden's election victory over Trump, delaying that process for several hours as then-Vice President Mike Pence, members of Congress, staff and journalists fled.

More than 640 people face criminal charges stemming from the event.

The attack on the Capitol by Trump supporters took place as Congress met to certify Democrat Joe Biden's election victory over Trump

More than 640 people face criminal charges stemming from the event
Australians who want to live in a house without paying an enormous mortgage deposit upfront can move to a regional area where prices are still under $200,000.

A worker earning an average, full-time salary of $90,300 a year has no hope of having a home with a backyard in Sydney or Melbourne a middle-distance from the city where prices are typically in the seven figures.

That dream is becoming harder to achieve in Brisbane, Adelaide and Hobart which are now among the world's most expensive property markets.

Those who are allowed to work remotely from home and keep their salary have more options in coastal, provincial areas of central Queensland.

Australians who want to live in a house without having a huge mortgage can move to a regional area where prices are still under $200,000 (pictured is a house on the market for $170,000 at Marlborough in central Queensland)

The Isaac local government area, between Mackay and Rockhampton, has a median home price of $226,250, CoreLogic data showed.

An average salary earner putting away a fifth of their salary, or $18,065, would be able to save for a mortgage deposit in two years and six months.

That's a far cry from Sydney, where it would take 14 years and six months to save up $262,328 to have a 20 per cent deposit on a median-price $1.312million house.

A house at Marlborough, 105km north-west of Rockhampton, is on the market for $170,000.

A 20 per cent deposit of $34,000 could be achieved in less than two years.

A few hours' drive south of Rockhampton, the Banana shire council has a median property price of $190,000.

A few hours' drive south of Rockhampton, the Banana shire council has a median property price of $190,000. A house in Biloela - the town best known for welcoming Sri Lankan Tamil asylum seeker Murugappan family - is on the market for $150,000

A house in Biloela - the town best known for welcoming the Sri Lankan Tamil asylum seeker Murugappan family - is on the market for $150,000.

Affordable places to buy a house in Australia Cobar, NSW: $155,000 West Coast, Tasmania: $112,750 Broken Hill, NSW: $130,000 Isaac, Queensland: $226,250 Banana, Queensland: $190,000 Port Hedland, WA: $298,250 Central Highlands, Queensland: $226,375 Yarriambiack, Victoria: $135,000 Wattle Range, SA: $156,913 Kalgoorlie/ Boulder, WA: $265,000 Sources: CoreLogic data on dwelling prices for June 2021 by local government area, Finder Advertisement

A $30,000 deposit can be achieved in one year and eight months.

The far western New South Wales town of Broken Hill, where mining giant BHP was born, has a median house price of $130,000.

A buyer who can handle the summer heat and the array of art galleries in the 'silver city' would be able to save up for the $26,000 mortgage deposit in one year and five months.

Tasmania's west coast hasn't quite had the double-digit annual price increases as Launceston and Hobart and median property prices are at a very affordable $112,750.

A house in the gold and copper mining town of Queenstown is on the market for $155,000, which means a mortgage deposit of $31,000 can be achieved in one year and eight months.

Someone preferring a more scenic place to live can try nearby Strahan where blocks of land are selling for $90,000.

With property prices across most of Australia rising at a much faster pace than wages, Finder's senior money editor Sarah Megginson said young buyers needed to consider their options.

'Your first home is probably not going to be your dream home - and that's completely normal,' she said.

'You can always upsize to a larger home further down the track once you've built up some equity.

'In the meantime, you could consider investing in a more affordable property so you can get your foot on the property ladder sooner than later.'

Tasmania's west coast hasn't quite had the double-digit annual price increases as Launceston and Hobart and median property prices are at a very affordable $112,750. A house in the gold and copper mining town of Queenstown is on the market for $155,000, which means a mortgage deposit of $31,000 can be achieved in one year and eight months
The three neglected children who were found abandoned in squalid conditions in a Houston home alongside the skeletal remains of their nine-year-old brother who had been dead for more than a year managed to survive thanks to help from a neighbor.

The childrens mother and her boyfriend were questioned and released by law enforcement officials. Child welfare services in Texas have also launched an investigation.

The mother and her boyfriend left the children alone for several months, according to law enforcement officials. Occasionally, the mother would return to bring the kids food.

The three children were taken to a hospital for treatment. An autopsy is being conducted on the fourth child to determine a cause of death.

An unidentified Good Samaritan who lived in a nearby apartment complex in Houston brought the three children food and charged their phones after the electricity was cut in their house, the Harris County Sheriffs Department told The Daily Beast.

It's not clear why she didn't report the neglected kids to the police or child protective services.

'If an adult was bringing them food to eat, they must have seen that child,' a fellow local resident said.

Harris County Sheriff's Department officers are seen above at a Houston apartment complex on Sunday afternoon where three children were found in a neglected state

Investigators also found the decomposed body of a nine-year-old boy inside the apartment

Law enforcement officials said that the three children were given food by an unidentified neighbor

Law enforcement officials said that the neighbor was helping the three children - ages 7, 10, and 15 - for at least the last two weeks.

According to investigators, the 15-year-old said that the parents hadnt been living at home for weeks, effectively abandoning the children to be on their own.

When police arrived to the home on Sunday afternoon, they found the brothers skeletal remains out in the open, KPRC-TV reported.

The two younger boys appeared to be malnourished and showed signs of physical injury, according to law enforcement officials.

It appears they were basically fending for each other, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez told reporters.

The older sibling was doing the best he could to take care of the others.

In an update late Sunday, Gonzalez revealed that the children's mother and her boyfriend have been located and interviewed by homicide detectives.

On Monday, the sheriff announced that the couple was released without being arrested or charged with any crime. No explanation was provided for the decision to let the pair go at this time.

In response to a request for comment, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office wrote in an email to DailyMail.com: 'This is an active investigation, with charges pending.'

Authorities have not said whether or not they were looking for the children's biological father.

'Connecting all the dots, it seems they were in there while the body was deteriorating,' the sheriff said.

HCSO is now investigating to determine the circumstances that led to the death of the minor and how long the kids had been alone.

The unidentified resident who brought the children food lived in the CityParc II residential complex, which is located about 20 miles from downtown Houston.

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said a unit was sent to do a welfare check at the residence after receiving a call. The body was not concealed

Residents there expressed shock at the fact that nobody noticed just how bad the situation was inside the home.

'If an adult was bringing them food to eat, they must have seen that child,' one resident of the complex told The Daily Beast.

Residents of the area said that management had been doing inspection rounds in the area for the last couple of weeks.

A neighbor living next door to the siblings told KTRK she had no idea there was anyone occupying that unit, let alone children.

The neighbor in the apartment complex told the station KTRK that she complained for months about a foul odor emanating from the unit where the shocking discovery was made over the weekend.

She said that 13 or 14 months ago, she first noticed a vile odor wafting from what she thought was an abandoned apartment.

The smell was so bad, the woman said, that she would be forced to turn off her air conditioning to prevent it from entering her apartment through the vents.

The neighbor said she complained several times to the building's management about the smell, but it is unclear if anyone had gone to the unit housing the siblings to inspect it.

Other residents wondered if the children attended school and, if so, why a teacher or administrator didnt notice anything unusual.

The children had seemingly been left abandoned by adults for a long period of time and were 'fending for each other'

Homicide investigators along with CPS and Child Abuse investigators are also working on the case

The Alief Independent School District, which is the district that covers the geographical area in question, said it could not confirm whether the children attend one of its schools because they have not been identified as of yet.

'To ensure the safety of the children, the Department of Family and Protective Services is seeking emergency custody of the three boys,' the agency said in a statement on Monday.

'Child Protective Services does have history with the family, but there was no active CPS investigation at the time the children were discovered alone in their apartment.'

Police said the investigation is still in the preliminary stages .

'Very horrific situation here, very tragic. I've been in this business for a long time and I've never heard of a scenario like this, it really caught me by surprise,' said Gonzalez when addressing the media on Sunday evening.

'We are trying to identify next of kin to determine exactly what happened and how we got to this point...We're going to make sure we conduct a thorough follow-up investigation,' he added.
Russell Woolf, beloved host of ABC Perth's Breakfast radio program, has died suddenly at 57.

His death was announced on air by colleague Geoff Hutchison on Tuesday, with West Australian Premier Mark McGowan among those to pay tribute.

'We've got some really sad news to share with you this morning that our beloved friend and colleague Russell Woolf died earlier this morning,' Hutchinson said.

'It's come as a huge shock to us. Today is a sad day.'

The death of Russell Woolf, host of ABC Perth's Breakfast program, was announced on-air by colleague Geoff Hutchison on Tuesday

Russell Woolf, 57, had been with the national broadcaster since 1997. He is understood to have died in his sleep

'I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of local media legend, Russell Woolf,' WA Premier Mr McGowan Tweeted

Woolf had been with the national broadcaster since 1997. He is understood to have died in his sleep.

'I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of local media legend, Russell Woolf,' Mr McGowan tweeted.

'His unique and iconic voice, wit and and personality made him beloved by countless Western Australians. For many of us, whether we knew him personally or not, it will feel like we've lost a friend today.

'My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues during this difficult time.'

Former ABC broadcaster Glenn Mitchell said on Perth radio that 'Rusty' 'always had a smile on his face.'

'He was always this ebullient, bright, bubbly .. he was larger than life, with the great big mop of hair. He looked like an unmade bed but people just loved him,' Mitchell said.

Mitchell also tweeted: 'His support for me and my wife through tough times will never be forgotten ... thoughts with wife Kylie, daughter Bronte and ABC colleagues.'

Woolf's co-host on ABC Perth, Nadia Mitsopoulos, posted: 'My heart is broken. I love you Russ. I'll miss your hugs. Privileged to have shared a studio with you.'

Russell Woolf pictured with his co-host on ABC Perth, Nadia Mitsopoulos, who said her heart was broken by the news of his passing

'It will feel like we've lost a friend today,' Mr McGowan said in a series of Tweets about Woolf's death

Former West Coast Eagles AFL player Will Schofield had been a colleague of Woolf's at the ABC

Former West Coast Eagles AFL player Will Schofield posted a video on Twitter of Woolf dancing to Britney Spears in the ABC Radio studios after Schofield had accused him of playing 'old man' music on the station.

Another of Schofield's Tweets simply said, 'Love ya and miss ya mate.'

Hutchison recalled Woolf bringing him a stubby of Coopers Pale Ale after his first stint as morning show host in June 2006.

'He brought it straight into the studio to me and he said, 'have that, you deserve it'.'

'Just the most beautiful, beautiful friend.'

Woolf had been ABC TV's weather presenter for four years from 2007 to 2011.

He had also been an unsuccessful political candidate for a West Australian Senate seat in 2014.

Woolf was also widely remembered on Tuesday for his love of lawn bowls and his regular role as an MC of countless charity and community events.
The National Institutes of Health has defended itself after shocking images were widely circulated showing beagle puppies being eaten alive by sand flies in experiments allegedly funded by the NIH.

The Maryland-based organization on Monday evening told DailyMail.com that the pictures of the dogs with their heads enclosed in netting - being attacked by the flies as part of research into leishmaniasis, a serious parasitic disease transmitted by sand flies - were not from their experiments.

The NIH said that they did do leishmaniasis research on dogs in a laboratory in 2016, and in an enclosed open space in Tunisia, but not the research pictured.

'The images of beagles were drawn from a manuscript published in July 2021 in the journal PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases,' a NIH spokesman.

'The manuscript mistakenly cited support from NIAID, when in fact NIAID did not support this specific research shown in the images of the beagles being circulated.'

The White Coat Waste Project published shocking photos of beagle puppies with their heads locked in mesh cages so sand flies could eat the dogs. The National Institutes of Health on Monday night said that they had not funded the experiments in the pictures

NIAID is the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases - part of NIH. NIAID has been run since 1984 by Dr Anthony Fauci.

The spokesman did confirm, however, that some of the beagles had their vocal chords cut, insisting that the practice was common in scientific settings.

'Vocal cordectomies, conducted humanely under anesthesia, may be used in research facilities where numerous dogs are present,' the spokesman said.

'This is to reduce noise, which is not only stressful to the animals but can also reach decibel levels that exceed OSHA allowable limits for people and can lead to hearing loss.'

The images were published in September by White Coat Waste Project, a group which describes itself as 'a taxpayer watchdog group representing more than 2 million liberty-lovers and animal-lovers who all agree: taxpayers shouldnt be forced to pay over $20 billion every year for wasteful and cruel experiments on dogs, cats, monkeys and other animals.'

In response, a group of 24 lawmakers, led by Congresswoman Nancy Mace, a Republican representing South Carolina, are demanding Fauci provide answers about the experiments they believe to be 'cruel' and a 'reprehensible misuse of taxpayer funds.'

'According to documents obtained via a Freedom of Information Act request by taxpayer watchdog group White Coat Waste Project, and subsequent media coverage, from October 2018 until February 2019, NIAID spent $1.86million in taxpayer funds on drug tests involving 44 beagle puppies,' the letter from lawmakers reads.

'While documents state that the ostensible purpose of this study was to 'provide data of suitable quality and integrity to support application to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory agencies,' the FDA itself has recently stated that it 'does not mandate that human drugs be studied in dogs.''

The sand flies would gnaw on the dogs' ears, eating them alive

Two weeks ago, the White Coat Waste Project revealed that close to $1.68million was spent on experiments on a total of 44 beagles at Sri International in Menlo Park, California, in which the puppies received cordectomies and were force-fed drugs before being killed and dissected.

Another $375,800 was provided as a grant to a lab in Tunisia to drug beagle puppies.

The team had previously, in 2016, strapped the infectious sand flies to beagles at the NIAID lab in Bethesda, Maryland, allowing them to feed on the dogs for 22 months.

The White Coat Waste Project alleges that the dogs developed infectious legions before researchers killed and dissected them.

This procedure cost $18,430,917.

The White Coat Waste Project also revealed that close to $1.68million was spent on experiments on a total of 44 beagles at Sri International in Menlo Park, California, in which the puppies received cordectomies and were force-fed drugs before being killed and dissected

In 2016, the researchers strapped sand flies to beagles at the NIAID lab in Bethesda, Maryland, allowing them to feed on the dogs for 22 months, according to the White Coat Waste Project

The White Coat Waste Project alleges that the 2016 experiment caused the dogs to develop infectious legions before researchers killed and dissected them

In September 2020, Faucis agency reportedly authorized a $424,000 grant for animal experiments at the University of Georgia, where healthy beagles were drugged and then intentionally infested with parasite-carrying flies

In September 2020, Faucis agency reportedly authorized a $424,000 grant for animal experiments at the University of Georgia, where healthy beagles were drugged and then intentionally infested with parasite-carrying flies.

Records show the dogs were 'vocalizing in pain' during the experiments, before being killed.

The group of legislators has asked Fauci and his researchers to answer the following by November 19:

How many drug tests involving dogs have been funded by NIAID since January 2018? How much taxpayer money has been spent on this testing?

Since the Food and Drug Administration has clearly stated that it does not require dog testing for new drugs, why has NIAID continued to commission testing on dogs?

What has NIAID done to explore the use of non-canine and non-animal alternatives to meet FDA data requirements?

Has NIAID ever made any dogs available for adoption after the conclusion of an experiment or testing? If so, how many? if so, why not?

Why has NIAID contracted for cordectomies when they appear to be scientifically and medically unnecessary? What is the average cost for each cordectomy performed?

A group of 24 bi-partisan legislators are demanding answered and have called the experiments 'cruel' and a 'reprehensible misuse of taxpayer funds'

'De-barking beagles and poisoning puppies in experiments with our tax dollars is a national disgrace that's uniting Republicans and Democrats, and we applaud Rep. Nancy Mace and her colleagues on both sides of the aisle for holding the NIH accountable for this government waste and animal abuse,' said Justin Goodman, Vice President of Advocacy and Public Policy at White Coat Waste Project, in a statement provided to DailyMail.com.

The animal testing allegations come after Fauci was accused of lying to Congress by claiming the US did not fund gain-of-function research at the Wuhan lab blamed by some for creating COVID.

The National Institutes of Health admitted on Wednesday to funding gain of function research on bat coronaviruses in it's Wuhan laboratory, despite Dr. Fauci's denials to congress that such research took place.

The admission came in a letter addressed Kentucky congressman James Comer, in which NIH's principal deputy director Lawrence A. Tabak refers to a 'limited experiment' conducted to test if 'spike proteins from naturally occurring bat coronaviruses circulating in China were capable of binding to the human ACE2 receptor in a mouse model,' at the Wuhan lab.

According to Tabak, the mice infected with the modified bat virus 'became sicker' than those infected with the unmodified bat virus.

The lawmakers expect Fauci (pictured) to answer their questions by November 19

While never using the term, Tabak essentially confirms that gain of function research.

It looks at both transmitting disease between animals and humans and is a way for scientists to alter organisms and diseases.

They can then study how these diseases could become deadlier or more transmissible, took place at the Chinese lab despite consistent denials from Dr. Fauci.

The letter shifts the blame to U.S non profit EcoHealth Alliance, which used NIH money to fund research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, for not being transparent about the kind of research they were doing.

'EcoHealth failed to report this finding right away, as was required by the terms of the grant,' Tabak wrote in his letter.

'EcoHealth is being notified that they have five days from today to submit to NIH any and all unpublished data from the experiments and work conducted under this award.'

Fauci has testified on several occasions before Congress that American taxpayers never financed what is called 'gain of function' research in China - which would make a virus more contagious or deadly.

In May, Fauci testified that the NIH 'has not ever and does not now fund gain of function research in the Wuhan Institute of Virology.'

However, in September, The Intercept revealed it had received 900 pages of documents detailing the work of EcoHealth Alliance's research in Wuhan, China.

The files showed that in 2014, the National Health Institute approved a five-year, yearly grant of $666,000 a year for five years ($3.3million) for EcoHealth Alliance, a US research organization, into bat coronavirus.

NIH's principal deputy director Lawrence A. Tabak admitted to funding gain-of-function research on bat coronaviruses in it's Wuhan laboratory

The Wuhan Institute of Virology has been fingered as the potential source of COVID-19. It received $599,000 in US government money from the EcoHealth Alliance for its study on coronaviruses in bats

EcoHealth Alliance, in its proposal to the NIH, acknowledged the risks involved were 'the highest risk of exposure to SARS or other CoVs' among staff, who could then carry it out of the lab.

The NIH gave them the money anyway - something Fauci was previously forced to admit when testifying before Congress in May this year. EcoHealth Alliance then gave $599,000 of the money to the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

The approval notice for the grant is 528 pages long. It describes how EcoAlliance would receive yearly payments, totaling $3.3million over five years.

The funding was renewed in 2019 but was abruptly cut short in April 2020, once COVID-19 had spread throughout the world.
A two-year-old boy was left terrified and with blood pouring from his head after a magpie swooped down on him during a walk in the park with his family.

Mother-of-two Ashleigh Ferguson's son Jordan was attacked by the territorial magpie as he walked along a footpath at Pioneer Country Park near Maryborough in south-east Queensland.

The shocked mother shared a photo of her son bleeding from a wound on his head to warn other parents about the risks posed by the aggressive birds.

Ms Ferguson said she, Jordan and his three-year-old brother had been to the park two days before but decided to take a different route on Friday.

Ashleigh Ferguson's son Jordan was attacked by the angry magpie as he walked along a footpath near Maryborough in south-east Queensland

'We have recently moved from Melbourne where magpie attacks are few and far between,' she told Daily Mail Australia.

'We went to that park for the first time on Wednesday and when we returned on Friday we noticed there were some nice walking paths.

'After about 10 minutes of walking along the path Jordan stopped to look at some ants.'

The mother said the magpie briefly stared at her before swooping on the youngster, leaving him in tears.

'I turned around and saw the blood down the back of his head and ran to my partner - he thought Jordan had cracked his head open,' she said.

'He picked up my other son and ran back to the car. I had to look at Jordan's head to make sure it didn't need stitches.'

Ms Ferguson pictured with Jordan. She said she wants other parents to know about the risks posed by magpies so their children don't end up in the same situation

Jordan pictured second from left with his mother. The mother said the magpie briefly stared at her before swooping on her son, leaving him in tears

The youngster's injuries did not require a trip to the hospital, with his mother tending to his injuries with a first aid kit.

Ms Ferguson though said she wants the magpie relocated to another green space so other parents taking their children to the park do not end up in the same situation.

'I posted in a local Facebook group and a lot of people have actually been attacked in the same park,' she said.

'It would help too to have signage warning about the magpies along the footpath - there are signs in the park but they're small and in black and white.

'We would hate for another kid to experience the same thing.'
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has explained away the viral moment she appeared to barge a sign language interpreter out of the way at a Covid press conference.

On her way into the parliament on Tuesday Ms Ardern told reporters her action - where she appeared to push the interpreter out of the way as she stepped away from the podium - was not intentional.

'She was to my left and I was trying to not get in the way of my colleagues and cross over them and maintain social distance,' she explained.

'But of course, in doing so, I cut her off - not intentionally, as you can imagine, and I apologised to her at the time.'

Video of the moment went viral after it was reported by Daily Mail Australia, with many people noting the apparently unimpressed reaction of the interpreter.

'This was innocent and the sign ladies face is hilarious,' one person commented online.

'Love the look she gives to Jacinda when she moves back in front the camera,' added another.

But in a Tweet, Deaf Aotearoa CEO Lachlan Keating said the interpreter 'wasn't unhappy'.

Broadcaster Jeanne Moss of CNN had described the scene as Ardern 'bigfooting her interpreter off the screen', though also recognised that Ms Ardern later offered 'an apologetic smile'.

Jacinda Ardern stepping in front of the sign language interpreter at the country's Covid press conference on the weekend (pictured)

The uncomfortable moment shared to TikTok showed Ms Ardern stepping away from the microphone and directly into the interpreter.

Ms Ardern, 41, then stepped back again, forcing the interpreter out of frame completely before the woman walks around her and back in front of TV crews - giving the nation's leader a priceless look before she continues signing for the hearing impaired.

Social media reaction to the incident was both for and against Ms Ardern's apparent intentions.

'What a bully! Wolf in sheep's clothing,' one person said.

'So disrespectful. I used to think she was cool but far from it now,' added another.

However, others were quick to point out the interaction wasn't intentional.

'She was just moving out of the way for the other speaker to come on, she even smiled at her afterwards.'

Many people commenting said the expression on the sign language interpreters face was hilarious. Ms Ardern apologised after the incident (pictured)

Video from the longer media conference shows Ms Ardern very quickly registered that she had pushed the woman out of the way and smiles and nods at her in apology.

Ms Ardern's press conferences have been notable in recent days not only for the subject material.

A day earlier her media address was interrupted by an earthquake which shook the stage, causing her to share an alarmed expression with the sign language interpreter.

The earthquake was later revealed to be a 5.9 magnitude quake which had struck the North Island.

Ms Ardern very quickly regained her composure and pushed on.

'Sorry, a slight distraction  would you mind repeating that question?' she said.

On Friday, Ms Ardern and the same interpreter were briefly rattled by an earthquake, which struck as she was addressing the nation for a Covid-19 update

On Monday, New Zealand reported 109 new locally acquired Covid cases and revealed 87 per cent of the country has had one vaccine dose.

A 90 per cent double-vaccination target was announced by Ms Ardern on Friday.

The alert level system is also set to be replaced by a traffic light system and vaccine mandates have been announced for health, education and prison workers.

Aucklanders - who have spent almost 10 weeks in lockdown - will be the first movers to a new traffic light style.

Auckland's 1.7 million residents will move from alert level three to 'code red' on the new system when 90 per cent of Aucklanders aged 12 and over are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Pictured: The epicentre of Friday's earthquake near Nueva Plymouth on New Zealand's North Island. Geonet said the quake was recorded at a depth of about 210km and was felt across the country

Ms Ardern says NZ's biggest city - which is currently 89 per cent partially vaccinated - could shift in early December.

'At current rates, Auckland would move absolutely before Christmas,' Ms Ardern said.

'This is within Auckland's grasp.'

But the vaccine mandates have sparked fury from some New Zealanders.

Former Breakfast, Good Morning and Radio NZ presenter Liz Gunn released an emotional video on Saturday.

She claimed that mandatory vaccinations were 'rape' and that Friday's earthquake was 'Mother Earth' rising up against a tyrannical leader.

'The poisoning of our children, the poisoning of our air, the poisoning of our waters. The poisoning of New Zealand with these terrible ideas,' Ms Gunn said.

Former TVNZ and Radio NZ presenter Liz Gunn uploaded a video on Saturday (pictured) in which she said mandatory vaccines were 'rape' and Ms Ardern had caused the earthquake

She claimed the vaccine passport to be introduced in New Zealand would divide the population.

'These completely misguided lies Ardern is telling us. The poisoning with arrogant tyrannical leaders. All of this is it stops with this earthquake. That's what our mother was explaining to us. We must listen to her. Even those who think Ardern is amazing.'

'Stop and think, what will this country be like in a generation or two generations if a leader like this is allowed to jab rape. Because it is rape to force something in someone's body.'

Ms Gunn was a presenter with TVNZ for more than a decade between 1990 and 2003 before she quit live on air amid reports she had not clicked with new co-host Mike Hosking.

She continued to work at Radio NZ until 2016 and is now the executive producer and presenter for a creative content agency.
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Princess Mako of Japan has given up her royal title to marry her commoner boyfriend in a move that has sharply divided public opinion.

Mako, 30, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of reigning Emperor Naruhito, tied the knot with university sweetheart Kei Komuro, a commoner, in Tokyo on Tuesday after an eight-year engagement.

Japan's strict laws of succession forbid women from ascending to the Chrysanthemum Throne and force them to give up their titles if they marry commoners.

The low-key ceremony, which was met with protests, was held behind closed doors without any of the pomp and pageantry of other Japanese royal weddings, which traditionally include a reception and banquet. Her aunt and uncle, the reigning Emperor and his wife, also enjoyed a parade through the streets of Tokyo on their wedding day.

Mako's nuptials were a far more solitary affair. The princess, simply dressed in a blue frock with a bunch of white flowers, bade farewell to her parents, Crown Prince Akishino and mother Crown Princess Kiko, with a bow outside their residence at Akasaka Estate early Tuesday, before sharing a hug with sister Princess Kako, 26.

She then went alone by car to marry Komuro at a registry office, away from cameras and a public who are divided over the relationship. Afterwards, the newlyweds held a press conference in a somberly-decorated hotel function room which they paid for, in which they apologised for any distress that their union has caused.

Reading out a prepared statement, Mako defended her decision to marry, describing Kei as 'irreplaceable' and saying 'our marriage is a necessary step for us to be able to protect our hearts.' She also criticised news reports written during their engagement which she accused of spreading false information and 'one-sided rumours' that had left her 'feeling sadness and pain.' The royal household previously revealed she is suffering PTSD.

The newlyweds then bowed for the cameras before departing to start their new life, which is likely to be based in the US where Komuro is working for a law firm.

The decision has led to comparisons with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who also turned their backs on royal duties to live privately in the US.

Mako, 30, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of reigning Emperor Naruhito, tied the knot with university sweetheart Kei Komuro, a commoner, in Tokyo on Tuesday after an eight-year engagement. They have been engaged since 2013 and were due to marry three years ago, but the wedding was delayed following a financial scandal involving his mother

Japan's Princess Mako (left) has given up her royal title in order to marry commoner boyfriend Kei Komuro (right) in a ceremony stripped of all pomp and glamour in Tokyo

At the press conference, the couple read out prepared statements in which they apologised for any distress their marriage has caused - but defended their decision to go ahead with the ceremony

Mako shares a hug with her sister, Princess Kako of Akishino, as she departs from their residence at the Akasaka Estate in Tokyo on her way to the wedding ceremony. She waved goodbye to her parents, pictured left

High profile: Princess Mako of Japan, right, donned a traditional Junihitoe as she took part in a procession through Tokyo's Imperial Palace to mark her uncle's formal ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019

Protesters hold banners during a march against the marriage between Japan's Princess Mako and her fiance Kei Komuro

The low-key service is a far cry from the pomp and ceremony that surrounded the wedding of the then-Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako in June 1993. Pictured, a motorcade through central Tokyo

There were also no official portraits, like these ones taken of then-Crown Prince Prince Naruhito and his wife Crown Princess Masako with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko after their wedding at the Imperial Palace June 9, 1993 in Tokyo

Traditional dress: Emperor Naruhito, then Crown Prince, wearing a sokutai and holding a shaku. The photo was taken prior to their wedding ceremony in Tokyo in 1993

Crown Prince Naruhito of Japan and his wife Crown Princess Masako bow to Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko during a ceremony to greet them at their wedding at the Imperial Palace in June 1993

The commoner who wooed a princess: How Kei Komuro overcame scandal to wed Mako Komuro was raised by a single mother, with some media reports saying part of his education was funded by his mother's former fiance. At one point, he earned some money by working for tourism promotion near Tokyo. Trouble erupted a few months after he and Mako announced their engagement in 2017, when tabloids reported a financial dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance, with the man claiming mother and son had failed to repay a debt of about $35,000. Komuro later said the money had been a gift, not a loan. But in 2021, he submitted a 24-page explanation and later reportedly said he would pay a settlement. In September 2018, he left for studies at New York's Fordham University and didn't return until September this year, after having graduated from law school and started working at a New York law firm. He took the bar exam in July, with results due in December. When he returned to Japan, he was dressed casually and sporting long hair drawn back in a ponytail, setting off a media frenzy because it was deemed 'disrespectful'. But on Tuesday morning, ponytail shorn and dressed in a crisp dark suit and tie, he left to claim his bride. Most of his face was covered with a mask in line with Japan's coronavirus protocol, but he looked happy. Advertisement

Formerly the Princess of Akishino, Mako, who previously held a high profile position within the royal family, has now taken her husband's name and will go by Mako Komuro - the first time in her life that she has had a surname.

In his pre-prepared statement, Kei apologised for any distress caused but said that he loved Mako and would support her throughout their life together.

'I love Mako. We only get one life, and I want us to spend it with the one we love,' he said. 'I feel very sad that Mako has been in a bad condition, mentally and physically, because of the false accusations.'

The couple did not answer questions to make the experience easier for Mako, but did issue a page of written responses to five pre-selected questions.

One asked about Mako's condition, to which she responded: 'Not good'.

Mako and Komuro met at Tokyo's International Christian University in 2013 and became engaged in secret, before announcing their intention to marry in September 2017.

But the wedding was delayed following a financial scandal involving an unpaid debt allegedly owed by Kei's mother and suggestions he was marrying for money.

The dispute involves whether money his mother received from her former fiance was a loan or a gift. Makos father asked Komuro to clarify, and he wrote a statement defending himself, but it is still unclear if the dispute has been fully resolved.

In the wake of the scandal, he moved to the US to study law and recently graduated from Fordham University in New York, where he now works for a law firm.

He returned to Tokyo last month before it was announced that the pair would finally wed.

As part of the announcement, the royal household said Mako would forgo all traditional ceremonies and surrender a 1million payment she was entitled to according to Japanese tradition.

She is the first imperial family member since World War II to not receive the payment while marrying a commoner and chose to do so because of the criticism over her marrying a man some consider unfit for the princess.

The pair are now expected to move to the US to start a new life together.

'There will be different kinds of difficulties as we start our new life, but we'll walk together as we have done so in the past,' Mako said, thanking everyone who supported the couple.

Mako, apparently referring to mental health issues, noted 'many people have difficulty and hurt feelings while trying to protect their hearts'.

She said: 'I sincerely hope that our society will be a place where more people can live and protect their hearts with the help of warm help and support from others.'

Princess Mako shares a few final words with her family before the arrival of a car which took her to get married to university sweetheart Kei Komuro in a simple ceremony carried out in Tokyo

Princess Mako (in the car) waves goodbye to her father Crown Prince Akishino, mother Crown Princess Kiko, and sister Princess Kako as she leaves their royal residence on her way to get married

Mako waved goodbye to her family in front of the cameras early Tuesday before going alone to marry Kei in a registry office, ahead of an afternoon press conference the couple gave together

Mako was forced to give up her royal title due to Japanese traditions around marrying commoners, and voluntarily skipped royal wedding traditions and ceremonies along with a 1million payment to which she was entitled

Mako and Kei got married in a registry office on Tuesday before holding a press conference in a hotel function room which they paid for, where they bowed for waiting cameras

Kei (left) and Mako (right) met at university and got engaged in secret in 2013 before announcing their betrothal to the country in 2017, sparking a ream of negative press coverage that left Mako suffering PTSD

Mako - who will now go by her husband's surname, Komuro - and Kei gave statements after the wedding, apologising for any distress their union has caused the country but defending their decision to wed

Kei and Mako present themselves to the press as newlyweds, marking the first time in four years that they have been pictured together after news of their engagement was revealed

Kei said during the press conference that Mako 'has been in a bad condition' amid a maelstrom of criticism about their marriage, and that it has left him feeling 'very bad'

Pomp and pageantry: Imperial weddings in Japan are a far cry from Princess Mako's registry office service Akihito, wearing a sokutai and holding a shaku, a dress reserved for members of the imperial family, at his wedding to Michiko in 1959. The couple went on to become the emperor and empress, and left the throne in 2019 Following the wedding ceremony, Japanese Crown Prince Akihito and his bride, former Michiko Shoda, pose together before beginning triumphant drive thru streets of Tokyo. The couple wore traditional Japanese costumes for the actual wedding ceremony Crown Prince Akihito and Crown Princess Michiko wave to well-wishers on the coach at a parade after the royal wedding on April 10, 1959 in Tokyo Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko of Akishino, Mako's parents, pose with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko after the 'Kekkon-no-Gi' wedding ceremony on June 29, 1990 Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako, now the Emperor and Empress, waving to people during the parade after their wedding ceremony in Tokyo in 1993 Thousands of well-wishers gathered on the streets of Tokyo and waved flags as the newlyweds passed in their open-top car Masako looked radiant in a white wedding dress with twinkling tiara as she joined her new husband in the car in June 1993 Advertisement

Mako, who turned 30 three days before the wedding, is a niece of Emperor Naruhito. Her father is the Crown Prince and is expected to inherit the throne because Naruhito has only one child - a daughter - and his wife, 57-year-old Empress Masako, is unlikely to have another.

The princess's position within the family means she would have been afforded a full royal wedding had she chosen to marry a fellow royal.

The wedding of her uncle Naruhito, the then-Crown Prince and current Emperor, was a full-blown spectacle, complete with a motorcade that passed thousands of screaming well-wishers lining the roads of central Tokyo.

Instead it was a subdued, low-key event without any family present to witness the pair wed.

On Tuesday morning, she left the palace wearing a pale blue dress and holding a bouquet. She bowed outside the residence of her parents, Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, and her sister Kako, and then the sisters hugged each other.

Mako appeared before the cameras as she left her family's home at Akasaka Estate in Tokyo, before bowing to her father Crown Prince Akishino (right) and climbing into a waiting car

Kei Komuro leaves his house in Yokohama, close to Tokyo, ahead of the ceremony. His long hair - which had caused a stir when he arrived in Japan last month - had been cut, but he wore a pinstripe suit which caused controversy in the past

Kei, also 30, left Japan in 2018 amid scandal over his family's finances and has since been studying law in the US where he now works at a New York law firm. The couple are now expected to move there

Steeped in legend dating back 2,600 years: History of the Japanese royal family Mako is the niece of Emperor Naruhito, who came to the throne in 2019 after his father abdicated, beginning a new imperial era named 'Reiwa'. The family has a myth-filled history dating back more than 2,600 years and is said to be descended from the legendary sun goddess Amaterasu. While 61-year-old Naruhito holds no political power under Japan's post-war constitution, he is an important symbolic figurehead. The emperor and empress host state visits and ritual ceremonies at the Imperial Palace, their main residence within vast grounds in the heart of Tokyo. But their status can be a sensitive topic in Japan, given its 20th century history of war waged in the name of Mako's great-grandfather Hirohito. Advertisement

'To me, Kei is irreplaceable. Our marriage is a necessary step for us to be able to protect our hearts,' Mako told reporters after the marriage was registered.

'I have been scared, feeling sadness and pain whenever one-sided rumours turn into groundless stories.'

Despite the negative press coverage and small but angry protests against the marriage, more than half of respondents in a survey by the Yomiuri Shimbun daily said they thought it was a good thing.

The most important thing is that she is happy,' Tokyo resident Machiko Yoshimoto, in her 60s, told AFP.

'It would have been better to have a festive atmosphere, instead of this difficult situation, which is rather sad and regrettable,' said Shigehiro Hashimoto, 54.

The Imperial Household Law of 1947 stipulates that only males in the family's male line can ascend to the throne.

It means that while Emperor Naruhito has a daughter Aiko, 19, it is his brother the Crown Prince Fumihito who takes precedence.

Similarly the Crown Prince's daughters, Mako and Kako, 26, will be passed over in favour of his son Prince Hisahito, 15.

There is only one other man - the Emperor's 85-year-old uncle, Prince Hitachi - who is eligible for the throne under current rules.

If the young Prince Hisahito does not have a male child, the line of succession will be broken - prompting some debate about changing the rules, with polls showing the Japanese public broadly support women being allowed to rule.

Although traditionalists are vehemently against the idea, Japan has had as many as eight empresses in the past. The last one, Gosakuramachi, was on the throne about 250 years ago.

There has been some debate over changing the rules, and a government panel in July compiled notes on the issue including a proposal that royal women stay in the family, even after marriage.

Princess Mako bows to news cameras outside her family's residence at the Akasaka Estate in central Tokyo

Mako waves to well-wishers outside her family home. Her marriage has deeply divided public opinion in Japan, with polls showing a slim majority in favour of it but a hardcore of traditionalists bitterly opposed

Princess Mako's marriage has caused controversy in conservative corners of Japanese society, and protesters opposed to the union took to the streets on Tuesday to voice their opinion

Opposition to the marriage has been driven in-part by concerns over finances, including security arrangements for the new couple and an unpaid debt owed by Kei's mother

From rule-following princess to a royal rebel: How Mako of Japan, 30, who studied abroad in Edinburgh and had a work placement at Coventry Museums has turned her back on tradition to wed the New York-based lawyer she met at university

By Stephanie Linning for MailOnline

Weddings are supposed to be a day of untainted love and joy.

But not so for Japan's Princess Mako, who has today renounced her royal title after going against tradition to marry her university sweetheart.

The issue has arisen because her long-term boyfriend Kei Komuro, 30, a lawyer with a New York law firm whom she met at Tokyo's International Christian University almost a decade ago, is a commoner.

By marrying him today, Mako, 30, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of reigning Emperor Naruhito, has chosen love over her title, duties as a royal, and official place within the family.

Japan's strict laws of succession forbid women from ascending to the Chrysanthemum Throne and force them to give up their titles if they marry commoners.

The wedding has sent shockwaves through Japan - a country where the royal family face huge pressure to conform to tradition and meet exacting standards of behaviour, with each move intensely scrutinised.

It marks a dramatic, if slow burning, departure for the princess, a graduate of Leicester University who worked at Coventry Museums, who was happy to conform to expectation in her early years.

Mako, the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and niece of Emperor Naruhito, has chosen love over her duties as a royal, and place within the family. Pictured, Mako, right, with her parents and younger sister Kako at t Akasaka Palace in Tokyo in 1999

Weddings are supposed to be a day of love and joy. But not so for Japan's Princess Mako, who has been formally removed from the royal family on marrying her university sweetheart. Pictured, the newlyweds at a press conference to announce their low-key civil service in Tokyo

Born on October 23, 1991, Mako is the oldest child of Fumihito, Prince Akishino, and his wife, Princess Kiko, who were college sweethearts, like Mako and Komuro.

The birth of the first granddaughter to then-Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko was greeted by intense media coverage despite the fact that she could not, by law, inherit the throne.

This included the proud father telling reporters after viewing his newborn daughter: 'She's cute. She looks like me.'

Mako was followed three years later by her sister Kako, and the two were joined by their brother Hisahito in 2006, the first male born to the imperial family since 1965.

The Imperial Household Law of 1947 stipulates that only males in the family's male line can ascend to the throne. It means that while Emperor Naruhito has a daughter Aiko, 19, it is his brother the Crown Prince Fumihito who takes precedence.

Similarly the Crown Prince's daughters, Mako and Kako, 26, will be passed over in favour of his son Prince Hisahito, 15.

Princess Mako of Akishino is seen outside the Hayama Imperial Villa on January 26, 1996 in Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan (left) and right, Princess Kiko of Akishino holding her daughter n August 7, 1992 in Karuizawa, Nagano

Japanese Prince Hisahito (C), the son of Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, plays with his sisters Princess Mako (L) and Princess Kako (R) at his residence in Tokyo 31 August 2007

Prince Hisahito (centre), the son of Prince Akishino (left) and Princess Kiko (second left), plays with a dog as Prince Akishino family visits Karuizawa mountain resort in Nagano prefecture on May 3, 2008 while Prince Hisahito's sisters Princess Mako (fourth left) and Princess Kako (5th left) look on

Princess Mako, in blue, in 2005 with members of the royal family including her parents (back row), uncle, centre, who is now the Emperor, and younger sister, in yellow

The stress of royal life: Other Japanese princesses whose health has suffered Other female royals have suffered from stress-related illnesses, especially after joining the family through marriage. Mako's aunt Empress Masako, a former high-flying diplomat, has struggled for years, with some observers blaming the pressure of producing a male heir. The imperial couple have one daughter, Aiko, who is 19 years old. And Michiko, wife to Naruhito's father Akihito and the first commoner to marry into the family, also faced criticism from hardliners and tabloid gossip, especially in the early years of their marriage. She once lost her voice for months, and has also suffered stomach problems linked to stress. Advertisement

There is only one other man - the Emperor's 85-year-old uncle, Prince Hitachi - who is eligible for the throne under current rules.

If the young Prince Hisahito does not have a male child, the line of succession will be broken - prompting some debate about changing the rules, with polls showing the Japanese public broadly support women being allowed to rule.

Although traditionalists are vehemently against the idea, Japan has had as many as eight empresses in the past.

The last one, Gosakuramachi, was on the throne about 250 years ago.

Though Mako initially followed royal tradition and attended the elite Gakushuin school through the end of high school, she broke with custom by not continuing at the institution for her university studies, choosing instead to attend Tokyo's International Christian University.

It is here she met Komuro, at a meeting of students planning to go abroad in 2012. Komuro, raised by a single mother, had a much less privileged start in life and spent some time working for tourism promotion near Tokyo to earn money.

Mako spent a year at the University of Edinburgh and reportedly studied for a period in Dublin.

She graduated in 2014 with a degree in art and cultural studies and later obtained a master's degree in Art Museum and Gallery studies from the University of Leicester.

As part of her degree programme Princess Mako has also completed a placement at Coventry Museums and collections-based research at New Walk Museum in Leicester.

Speaking at a press opportunity marking the end of her year of taught Master's degree, Princess Mako said in Japanese that her time at the University of Leicester had been 'a wonderful experience'.

Princess Kiko and Princess Mako of Akishino visit the 'Cultural Crossings - Tang Art and the Japanese Envoys' exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum on August 29, 2000 in Tokyo, Japan

Daughters of Japanese Prince Akishino, Princess Mako (R) and Princess Kako, arrives at the Aiiku hospital to see her mother Princess Kiko and their new baby 06 September 2006

Princess Mako of Akishino poses for photographs prior to attend the graduation ceremony at the International Christian University on March 26, 2014 in Mitaka, Tokyo, Japan

Princess Mako (L) and Princess Kako smile as Mako graduates from Gakushuin girls' high school and Kako graduates the junior high school in Tokyo on March 22, 2010

End of the line: Princess Mako is expected to lose her royal titles when she marries Kei Komuro, whom she met while studying at International Christian University (ICU) and is set to marry next year after postponing their wedding in 2018. Pictured, the princess in 2011

Japan's Princess Mako stands on a bulletproofed balcony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo to greet well-wishers who throng to the palace compound to celebrate Emperor Akihito's 78th birthday in 2011

Head of the School of Museum Studies Dr Suzanne Macleod said at the time: 'We have a strong connection to the cultural profession in Japan with many students graduating from our School to take up posts in museums and galleries there and so it felt very natural that Mako should come and follow her interests with us.

'She has been a pleasure to teach, has worked incredibly hard and should be very proud of her achievements.'

Mako and Komuro became engaged in secret before announcing the news in September 2017. Shortly afterwards it was announced the pair would wed in November 2018.

Trouble erupted a few months after he and Mako announced their engagement in 2017, when tabloids reported a financial dispute between Komuro's mother and her former fiance, with the man claiming mother and son had failed to repay a debt of about $35,000.

Princess Mako, Princess Kako, Prince Hisahito, Princess Kiko and Prince Akishino are seen at refurbished Akasaka State Guest House on May 30, 2010 in Tokyo, Japan

Princess Mako of Akishino talks with guests during the Autumn Garden Party at Akasaka Imperial Garden on November 09, 2018 in Tokyo, Japan

Princess Mako (in blue) has taken on a more active role within the family in the months since her uncle was made Emperor and her father heir to the throne in May. Pictured (l-r) Princess Kako, and Princess Mako with parents Crown Princess Kiko and Crown Prince Fumihito

Princess Mako of Akishino and Princess Kako of Akishino arrive at the arrive at Shinhama Kamoba (Shinhama Imperial Wild Duck Preserve) on December 17, 2019 in Ichikawa, Chiba, Japan

Running out of male heirs: The issue of succession within the Japanese royal family Imperial family: Japan's Emperor Naruhito, seated third from left, and Empress Masako, seated third from right, with front left to right) Empress Emerita Michiko, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, Crown Prince Akishino, and Crown Princess Kiko, (back from left to right) Princess Mako, Princess Aiko, Prince Hisahito, and Princess Kako Princess Mako's wedding sheds light on another issue facing Japan's royals: the lack of male heirs eligible to take the throne. The Imperial Household Law of 1947 stipulates that only males in the family's male line can ascend to the throne. It means that while Emperor Naruhito has a daughter Aiko, 19, it is his brother the Crown Prince Fumihito who takes precedence. Similarly the Crown Prince's daughters, Mako and Kako, 26, will be passed over in favour of his son Prince Hisahito, 15. There is only one other man - the Emperor's 85-year-old uncle, Prince Hitachi - who is eligible for the throne under current rules. If the young Prince Hisahito does not have a male child, the line of succession will be broken - prompting some debate about changing the rules, with polls showing the Japanese public broadly support women being allowed to rule. Although traditionalists are vehemently against the idea, Japan has had as many as eight empresses in the past. The last one, Gosakuramachi, was on the throne about 250 years ago. The threat of a crisis of succession has prompted action from Japanese lawmakers. In 2019 members of Japan's ruling party finalised proposals to allow men from previously severed branches of the imperial family to be rejoin in a bid to increase the number of male heirs. Proposals include allowing these distant royal relatives to be 'adopted' into the primary bloodline, or to marry female members. There is currently no move to change Imperial Law to instate female members of the family into the line of succession. Advertisement

Some reports say the fiance paid for part of Komuro's education.

Komuro later said the money had been a gift, not a loan. But in 2021, he submitted a 24-page explanation and later reportedly said he would pay a settlement.

In September 2018, he left for studies at New York's Fordham University and didn't return until September this year, after having graduated from law school and started working at a New York law firm. He took the bar exam in July, with results due in December.

Meanwhile, Mako had started to take on a more high-profile role within the royal family. In 2019 she donned a traditional Junihitoe as she took part in a procession through Tokyo's Imperial Palace to mark her uncle's formal ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne.

She also took on official engagements that would have previously fallen to her parents, including making an official visit to South America in July that year.

However now she will be leaving it all behind as she joins Komuro to build a new life together in New York. They will do so without royal money.

Mako has also declined the 140 million yen ($1.23 million) dowry to which she was entitled for leaving the imperial family, palace officials said.

She is the first imperial family member since World War II to not receive the payment while marrying a commoner and chose to do so because of the criticism over her marrying a man some consider unfit for the princess.

Japan's Princess Mako, center, the granddaughter of Emperor Akihito, is flanked by Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyal Wangchuck, left, and Queen Jetsun Pema, right, as they pose at the Royal Bhutan Flower Exhibition in Paro, Bhutan, Sunday, June 4, 2017

Princess Mako of Akishino attends the state dinner in honour of King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium at the Imperial Palace on October 11, 2016 in Tokyo (left) and (right) with Princess Kako at the tea party marking the 30th anniversary on throne at the Imperial Palace on February 26, 2019

Japanese Princess Mako (L), the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Akishino, and Bolivia's Foreign Minister Diego Pary attend a wreath laying ceremony at Plaza Murillo in La Paz, on July 15, 2019

Japanese Princess Mako greets children at Okinawa's Japanese Community, 80km northeast Santa Cruz, Bolivia, on July 19, 2019, during celebrations for the 120th anniversary of the Japanese immigration to Bolivia

Princess Mako of Akishino is seen on departure for Bolivia and Peru at Narita International Airport on July 9, 2019 in Narita, Chiba, Japan

Reading out a prepared statement today, Mako defended her decision to marry while describing Kei as 'irreplaceable' and adding that 'our marriage is a necessary step for us to be able to protect our hearts.'

She also criticised news reports written during their engagement which she accused of spreading false information and 'one-sided rumours', which she said had left her 'feeling sadness and pain.'

The royal household previously revealed she is suffering PTSD.

Kei also apologised but said that he loved Mako and would support her throughout their life together.

'I love Mako. We only get one life, and I want us to spend it with the one we love,' he said. 'I feel very sad that Mako has been in a bad condition, mentally and physically, because of the false accusations.The couple did not answer questions to make the experience easier for Mako, but did issue a page of written responses to five pre-selected questions. One asked about Mako's condition, to which she responded: 'Not good'.
Sir David Attenborough has warned world leaders ahead of the Cop26 summit in Glasgow this weekend that they must 'act now' on the climate crisis or it will be 'too late' for the planet.

Cop26 has been billed as the last best chance to keep global temperature rises to no more than 1.5C, with Sir David critical of those who deny the climate crisis.

In conversation with BBC science editor David Shukman, the naturalist and broadcaster said: 'Every month that passes, it becomes more and more incontrovertible, the changes to the planet that we are responsible for that are having these devastating effects.'

He added: 'If we don't act now, it will be too late. We have to do it now.'

Boris Johnson and David Attenborough speak with school children during a conference about the COP26 UN Climate Summit last year

Kate Middleton and Prince William can be seen chatting to David Attenborough in a behind the scene photograph from the Earthshot Prize Awards on Sunday

Wealthier western countries like the UK have a 'moral responsibility' to help refugees displaced by climate change, the 95-year-old said.

'We caused it  our kind of industrialisation is one of the major factors in producing this change in climate. So we have a moral responsibility,' he told the BBC.

'Even if we didn't cause it, we would have a moral responsibility to do something about thousands of men, women and children who've lost everything, everything. Can we just say goodbye and say this is no business of ours?'

Earlier in October, Sir David, who will be present at the summit, said the possibilities of Cop26 gave him 'some hope'.

'For the first time people around the world will hear the arguments as to what we should do, the analyses as to what the problems are and what the solutions are,' he said.

'Those two things bring me some hope.'

Boris Johnson will welcome world leaders to Glasgow for the summit which begins on Sunday after saying it was 'touch and go' whether key goals would be met as the the heads of some major polluting nations are set to skip the event.

Earlier this month, the Queen acknowledged she would attend Cop26 and appeared to suggest she was irritated by a lack of action in tackling the climate crisis.

It came days after her grandson, the Duke of Cambridge, warned world leaders in Glasgow against 'clever speak, clever words but not enough action'.

Recent analysis suggests that even with the latest pledges and targets, the earth is heading for around 2.4C of warming in the long-term.

The Duchess of Cambridge can be seen placing a reassuring hand on Emma Thompson's shoulder as they cross paths backstage

To match the event's ethos and highlight on sustainability, Kate (pictured, on stage) recycled a dress she first wore ten years ago in 2011, at a Bafta reception in Los Angeles while she and Prince William were touring America as newly-weds.

The smiling royal couple laugh with Harry Potter actress Emma Watson, who donned a very quirky backless white tulle dress worn over flared black trousers (pictured)

Last week, Kate Middleton and Prince William were seen chatting to Sir David and sharing a joke with Dame Emma Thompson in behind the scene photographs from the Earthshot Prize Awards.

In the previously unseen snaps, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, both 39, stood side by side as they greeted presenters backstage at the ceremony at Alexandra Palace in London for the most ambitious environmental prize in history which gave 1million to five winners.

In one black and white image, the smiling royal couple laughed with Harry Potter actress Emma Watson, who donned a very quirky backless white tulle dress worn over flared black trousers, and presented the second award, which went to AEM Electrolyser, which turns renewable electricity into emission-free hydrogen gas.

Other adorable snaps showed them both sharing touching moments with Emma Thompson, with Kate placing a tender hand on her shoulder as the actress comes off stage after presenting the fourth Earthshot award to the city of Milan, whose Food Waste Hubs aim to halve waste by 2030.

Sir David, who has supported the project from the beginning and is a member of the Earthshot Prize council, who choose the winners, also appeared to be in jovial spirits as he chats away with the royal duo backstage.
Could a child really just 'disappear'? It has been a constant question since four-year-old Cleo Smith vanished from her tent on a camping trip 11 days ago.

For some, the concept is too hard to believe.

But the reality is Australia has been haunted by the disappearance of children for decades.

Sometimes it takes detectives years to crack the case. In a handful of tragic cases, they never do.

Here Daily Mail Australia takes a look at the most baffling cases.

In the 11 days since little Cleo Smith disappeared from her tent on a camping trip, one question has been on the lips of armchair detectives and concerned strangers following along from home: Could a child really just 'disappear'?

William Tyrell, age 3

Perhaps the most famous child disappearances in recent memory, William Tyrrell vanished from his foster grandmother's home in Kendall, NSW on September 12, 2014.

The little boy in the Spiderman suit was playing with his sisters and out of sight for no more than five minutes.

Detectives poured an enormous amount of resources into finding him, but his disappearance remains a mystery.

A coronial inquest is underway, hopeful of giving his loved ones and closure relating to his disappearance.

Perhaps the most famous child disappearances in recent memory, William Tyrrell vanished from his foster grandmother's home in Kendall, NSW on September 12, 2014

Craig Ewen Taylor, age 9

Another case with eerie similarities to missing Cleo is that of Craig Ewen Taylor, who disappeared while on a family holiday visiting his grandparents in 1993.

Craig, who was adopted by his aunt and uncle, was holidaying in Coningham, Tasmania, when he disappeared from his family shack.

There were initial reports he may have borrowed a kayak and drowned while out on the water, but other witnesses suggested he was abducted.

No trace of Craig was ever found.

Another case with eerie similarities to missing Cleo is that of Craig Ewen Taylor, who disappeared while on a family holiday visiting his grandparents in 1993

The Beaumont Children, Ages 9,7 & 4

Jane, Arnna and Grant Beaumont have been missing since Australia Day 1966.

The trio spent the day at Glenelg Beach near Adelaide in South Australia and were due to return home by bus at 2pm. By 7.30pm, their parents were concerned for their safety and alerted police.

A major investigation followed in which detectives learned the children were seen at the beach with a tall blond man, and later at a shop buying food. Their parents hadn't given them the money.

New leads and clues are regularly reported on, but there has not been any true development in the case.

A $1 million reward for any credible information that leads to cracking the case was offered in 2018, and still stands.

Jane, Arnna and Grant Beaumont have been missing since Australia Day 1966

Joanne Ratcliff, age 11 and Kirstie Gordon, age 4

Joanne and Kirstie disappeared from Adelaide Oval on August 25, 1973. The older of the girls had been tasked with taking Kirstie to the bathroom.

After 15 minutes, the girls' families grew concerned and began searching the field, but the girls were nowhere to be found.

A witness claims he saw the girls leaving the oval with a man, and four other people reported seeing them with the same person over the next 90 minutes.

Joanne appeared distressed in the sightings, police later revealed.

Detectives later raised concerns that it was the same man seen with the Beaumont children, but this has never been confirmed.

The girls were last seen three kilometres from the oval.

Joanne (left) and Kirstie (right) disappeared from Adelaide Oval on August 25, 1973. The older of the girls had been tasked with taking Kirstie to the bathroom

Eloise Worledge, age 8

When Eloise Worledge was reported missing, it sparked the biggest search ever seen in Victoria up until that point.

She was last seen on the night of January 12, 1976 at her home in Beaumaris, and was likely abducted.

Police believe she was lured from her bedroom by somebody she knew and felt comfortable with.

Despite building a profile and determining what they believe likely happened, Eloise was never found.

When Eloise Worledge was reported missing, it sparked the biggest search ever seen in Victoria up until that point

Patrick 'Paddy' Hildebrand, age 9

Nine-year-old Patrick Hildebrand seemingly vanished into thin air while hiking with his family in Lilly Pilly Gully, Victoria.

It was 1987 and he was a keen bushwalker. Detectives understand he ran ahead of his family, and was never seen again.

It defies belief that little Paddy could've disappeared in such a short amount of time, particularly with all the people in the area searching for him.

Nine-year-old Patrick Hildebrand seemingly vanished into thin air while hiking with his family in Lilly Pilly Gully, Victoria

Cheryl Grimmer, age 3

Cheryl was kidnapped from Fairy Meadow Beach in Wollongong on January 12, 1970, during a day out with her brothers.

She was in a shower block at the beach when witnesses claim a man took her and ran off.

Her body has never been found, but she is presumed dead.

A suspect, who was never named, was arrested in March 2017 in connection to Cheryl's disappearance.

It was revealed he'd confessed to the crime at the time, providing key details about the incident that the public wasn't privy to. But the statement was dismissed due to other inconsistencies. He would've been 15 at the time Cheryl was taken.

He pleaded not guilty and, in May 2019, the judge ruled a key piece of evidence was inadmissible and all charges were dropped.

Cheryl was kidnapped from Fairy Meadow Beach in Wollongong on January 12, 1970, during a day out with her brothers

Quanne Diec, age 12

Like Cheryl Grimmer, police officially consider Quanne Diec deceased.

They have never found the 12-year-old's body, and nobody has been convicted in relation to her disappearance, but there is significant reason to believe she was murdered.

NSW Deputy State Coroner Magistrate Derek Lee ruled Quanne died on or after the day she went missing in July 1998.

'It is most likely that Quanne went missing, and later died in suspicious circumstances. The manner of death is therefore homicide,' he found at her inquest.

The 12-year-old vanished on her way to school after leaving her Granville home in Sydney's west to walk to the train station.

She was not reported missing for 10 hours, as her parents assumed she was at school while teachers assumed she had taken the day off.

The 12-year-old vanished on her way to school after leaving her Granville home in Sydney's west to walk to the train station

Rahma el-Dennaoui, age 1

Rahma disappeared from the bedroom she shared with her two older siblings on November 10 2005.

NSW Police have released a $250,000 reward for any information relating to her disappearance, but there are very few leads.

There was at least one kilometre between Rahma's home and bushland - too far for the child to have wandered, some say.

Police discovered the fly screen covering the window above her bed was torn, but there are theories that it was cut.

Rahma's three-year-old sister initially told police the 19-month-old was taken by someone who didn't have any hands.

Rahma went missing from her home in Sydney's south-west on November 10, 2005

Cleo Smith, age 4

Cleo joins a tragic list of young children who have seemingly disappeared without a trace in Australia.

She was last seen inside the tent she shared with her mum, stepdad and baby sister Isla about 1.30am on Saturday morning at the Blowholes campsite, north of Carnarvon in Western Australia.

The four-year-old had asked her mum for a sip of water and returned to bed. When the family woke at about 6am, both Cleo and her sleeping bag were gone.

Detectives fear she was abducted and have offered a $1million reward for information leading to a conviction or her safe return.

Cleo joins a tragic list of young children who have seemingly disappeared without a trace in Australia
Those who are not vaccinated from outside Australia need to serve a fortnight

International arrivals will see the current quarantine duration cut to seven days

vaccinated domestic travellers can visit South Australia and not quarantine

South Australian premier Steven Marshall has confirmed border restrictions will be eased for holidaymakers who are double-vaccinated from November 23.

And in good news for international travellers, time spent in quarantine after arriving in Adelaide will be slashed from 14 days to seven days.

Unvaccinated arrivals from abroad will have to serve a full fortnight in isolation.

The development is part of the state's Covid-Ready roadmap, with the premier stating it was time to 'reward' residents for being so diligent during the pandemic.

'South Australians have worked extraordinarily hard over the last 19 months. They've stood shoulder to shoulder together,' Marshall said.

South Australian premier Steven Marshall has confirmed border restrictions will be eased for holidaymakers who are double-vaccinated from November 23

It is hoped popular destinations such as Glenelg Beach (pictured) will be teaming with people leading into Christmas

'There's got to be some reward for the sacrifices of individuals and businesses.

'I know this (announcement) will be a huge relief for so many South Australians who are wanting to get back to normality as soon as possible."

And once South Australia achieves a 90 per double vaccination rate - tipped to be by Christmas - quarantine will be completely scrapped for international guests who have had both jabs as well as further restrictions being lifted for locals.

They include public mask use, density limits, gathering and crowd caps, as well as bans on standing while drinking alcohol and dancing in licensed venues.

Following Tuesday's announcement, the premier is anticipating a dramatic increase from residents looking to be fully jabbed over the next few weeks.

'I think there will be a big surge now in the vaccination rate,' Marshall said.

'The health experts are now telling us that vaccination is our pathway out.'

South Australia's current vaccination figures for those aged over 16 are 62.6 per cent fully vaccinated and 79.3 per cent first dose.

For those aged 12 and over, the figures are 60 per cent fully vaccinated and 77.2 per cent first dose.

Following Tuesday's announcement, SA premier Steven Marshall is anticipating a dramatic increase from residents looking to be fully jabbed leading into Christmas (pictured, paramedic Tess Gale being vaccinated)
The on-set medic for Alec Baldwin's Western film, where a camerawoman was killed on Thursday, immediately realized that there had been a terrible mistake, according to a report.

Cherlyn Schaefer heard a 'loud shot' which surprised her, according to the medic's report from the immediate aftermath of the shooting, reviewed by The Wall Street Journal.

She said the noise was unexpected, because the team making the film Rust in the New Mexico desert was not meant to be using special effects at that point.

'Are we rehearsing? Because 'fire in the hole' wasn't called,' Schaefer said, according to the report.

The phrase 'fire in the hole' means that special effects are being used for an explosion.

After hearing someone say 'medic emergency' following the bang, she ran to a church on the set where the first scene after lunch was being set up.

Cherlyn Schaefer, the on-set medic, said that she was immediately surprised at the noise of the gunshot

Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was fatally shot with a prop gun fired by actor Alec Baldwin on the movie set in New Mexico on Thursday

Baldwin and Hutchins (circled) are pictured together on the set of Rust, in an image that she uploaded to Instagram two days before the fatal shooting

Schaefer said she heard people saying that the cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, 42, had been shot in the chest.

Baldwin, the film's star, was rehearsing a scene inside the church in which he points the gun directly at the camera.

The film director, Joel Souza, 48, was standing behind Hutchins and had also been shot, in the shoulder.

Schaefer said in her report that she asked a colleague to apply pressure to that patient's wound, as someone called 911.

Audio of the 911 call, released on Friday, showed the script supervisor, Mamie Mitchell, summoning help.

Mitchell immediately blamed the film's assistant director.

While the phone operator is inputting the details, Mitchell can be heard telling someone else: 'OK, this f****** AD that yelled at me at lunch asking about revisions, this motherf*****.

'Did you see him lean over my desk and yell at me? He's supposed to check the guns. He's responsible for what happened.'

Baldwin is seen in costume, covered with fake blood, in an image posted to Instagram

The Bonanza Creek ranch in New Mexico, outside of Santa Fe, is seen during filming of Rust. Baldwin is believed to have shot and killed Hutchins inside this church

Production of the film has stopped now in light of the tragedy. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Department is investigating and 'collecting evidence', a spokesman said on Friday

According to a search warrant filed in a Santa Fe court, the gun was one of three that the film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez, had set on a cart outside the wooden structure where a scene was being acted.

Assistant director Dave Halls grabbed the gun from the cart and brought it inside to Baldwin, unaware that it was loaded with live rounds, a detective wrote in the search warrant application.

It is not known whether Mitchell was referring Halls in the audio.

It was unclear how many rounds were fired.

Gutierrez removed a shell casing from the gun after the shooting, and she turned the weapon over to police when they arrived, the court records say.

Schaefer tended to Hutchins before the emergency medical technicians arrived.

She found a wound in Hutchins's back and began applying pressure to it, according to the report, and then found a second wound.

She began giving Hutchins oxygen through a mask and described checking for her vital signs.

As EMTs arrived, she helped move Hutchins onto a gurney before turning to Souza, who was released from hospital on Friday.

In a section of the report labeled 'detailed cause,' Schaefer wrote that ' 'Something' was shot from a prop gun.'

As those working on the company are left reeling from Thursday's events, a worrying picture is emerging of safety protocols on the set.

Hutchins, born in Ukraine, was fondly remembered by those who worked with her on the set of Rust

A search warrant released Friday said that armorer Hannah Gutierrez (left) laid out three prop guns on a cart outside the filming location, and assistant director Dave Halls (right) grabbed the gun from the cart and brought it inside to Baldwin. It is not known whether Mitchell was referring Halls in the audio

Ray Liotta, star of Goodfellas and Many Saints of Newark, told The Associated Press that he was shocked by the on-set shooting.

'They always  that I know of  they check it so you can see,' he said.

Joel Souza, the director of Rust, is seen in November 2019. He was reportedly shot in the shoulder

'They give it to the person you're pointing the gun at.

'They do it to the producer.

'They show whoever is there that it doesn't work.'

Prior to the fatal shooting there were at least two accidental discharges of prop firearms on the set in Santa Fe, New Mexico, according to The Wall Street Journal.

And Halls, according to people who spoke to Insider, had previously sparked alarm with his directions.

Melissa Low Lyon, the former on-set dresser for Hulu's horror series Into the Dark, alleged that Halls caused concern in 2019 when he told actor Creed Bratton to perform a stunt where his character was supposed to be shot in the head.

Bratton told Halls that he was worried about the scene, and uneasy about the actions Halls wanted. Bratton feared that the dummy projectile could still hit him in the eye, but Halls pressed him to continue, Lyon claimed.

'Creed himself expressed concern because he said 'it's not going to get my eye is it,'' Lyon told Insider.

'And then as soon as it happened, he said 'I f****** knew it.''

Lyon said she found Halls 'volatile' and difficult to work with.

An aerial view of the Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe, where the movie was being filmed

'Dave gets very confrontational in a sense, and just doesn't want to listen and says, 'well we're just going to do it' and he'll do things like he did on Rust and just grab it or do it himself,' Lyon said.

ALEC BALDWIN ON-SET TRAGEDY: WHAT COULD HAVE GONE WRONG? The Santa Fe Sheriff's Office continues to investigate what exactly happened on the set that led to the death of Hutchins and the injury of the director, but past accidents involving guns on movie sets present a range of options for what could have led to the tragedy. Squib load - something was lodged in the barrel of the gun when Baldwin fired One possibility is that an object was stuck in the barrel of the prop gun that Baldwin was using. Known as a squib load, it happens when a cartridge isn't fired from the barrel because the gas isn't strong enough to push it out. In itself, it is not dangerous and can be fixed if the gun is safely cleared but if someone keeps firing rounds from that same gun - live or not - it can be highly dangerous. If a second round is fired behind the stuck round, it can cause the weapon to explode, or injure people in the near vicinity. A real bullet was accidentally loaded, or part of one was, instead of a blank After firing the gun, Baldwin's immediate reaction was to ask why he'd been handed a 'hot' gun - meaning one containing live bullets. That is what happened in the 1993 shooting of actor Brandon Bruce Lee on the set of The Crow. Those on set thought the gun was loaded with blanks, but an autopsy revealed a .44 caliber bullet was lodged near Lee's spine. Police recovered dummy shell casings from the set. A dummy, unlike a blank, looks like a live round with a bullet at the tip of the cartridge. The difference between live rounds and blanks is the tip of the cartridge where the lethal bullet is contained is not there on a blank. Sometimes they are replaced with cotton or paper. Dummy bullets, unlike blanks, look like ordinary bullets but aren't meant to contain the metal bullet tip either Blast from the blank struck something else on set One possibility, though it is not likely, is that the blank hit something else, damaged it, and caused that prop or piece of equipment to send pieces flying towards the director and Hutchins. Rhys Muldoon who has used guns on set many times and says even blanks are dangerous, speculated at that possibility, telling the BBC: 'The first thought I had is this is a close up of a gun being fired by the actor, very close to the frame of the camera, that has misfired, hit the DoP, and then something has either come off the French Flag or the black box like a part of the camera and hit the director as well.' But movie experts say even in those cases, there should be more safeguards in place. 'If you are in the line of fire... You would have a face mask, you would have goggles, you would stand behind a Perspex screen, and you would minimize the number of people by the camera. 'What I don't understand in this instance is how two people have been injured, one tragically killed, in the same event,' Steven Hall, who has worked on films such as Fury and The Imitation Game, told BBC. Advertisement

Halls was previously fired from the production of another film, Freedom's Path, in 2019 after an accident involving a gun.

The weapon in that production fired unexpectedly, injuring a sound crew member who recoiled from the blast and had to seek treatment.

Freedom's Path is still in production and is expected to be released next year.

Rock Soul Studios, the company that produced the movie, fired him as a result.

The company told CNN about the incident on Monday as others in the industry lined up to trash Halls, calling him unprofessional, 'barbaric' and negligent.

On the set of another film, horror Western The Pale Door, released in August 2020, a second assistant director quit in protest at how Halls treated him and other workers.

Halls, the first assistant director, was constantly 'rushing everyone' and was 'rude about it, too,' said Danny Hulsey.

Hulsey told Insider he did not see any safety violations, but was angered by Halls' attitude.

Halls has not commented on either the 2019 incident, the 2020 confrontation, or the Rust shooting.

Rust had the a low budget for a film, with producers wanting the movie shot at the cost of an average episode of a high-end drama series - about $6-$7 million.

It was also on a tight 21-day filming schedule, according to Deadline.

The budget lead to constraints, according to some.

Neal W. Zoromski, a veteran prop master, said that he turned down an offer to join Rust because they would not give him the team he requested.

Zoromski told The Los Angeles Times he initially asked for a department of five technicians, which would be standard in the business.

He then modified his request to two experienced crew members: an assistant prop master and an armorer, who handles prop guns.

But he said he was told the movie could only afford one person handling all these duties, so he turned down the job.

'There were massive red flags,' he said.

'After I pressed 'send' on that last email, I felt, in the pit of my stomach: 'That is an accident waiting to happen.'

The production company behind the film said that they were unaware of any previous problems.

'Though we were not made aware of any official complaints concerning weapon or prop safety on set, we will be conducting an internal review of our procedures while production is shut down,' the company, Rust Movie Productions, said in a statement.

The company has emailed the crew and actors to tell them that production of the film was being halted, but called it 'a pause rather than an end.'

On Monday, Deadline reported that film and television studios are now reviewing their gun safety policies and exploring possible changes.

ABC's police drama The Rookie announced they will no longer use real guns. Instead, cast and crew will handle airsoft guns, which are replica guns with reduced power that typically fire plastic pellets.

Airsoft guns have been used as props in several high-profile television shows and movies, including The Walking Dead, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Killjoys, and 28 Weeks Later.

Within the industry, many were calling for change.

Nick Sinnott, an Emmy-winning visual effects supervisor who has worked on Avatar and Star Wars: Episode 1, tweeted: 'vfx artist here, to everyone saying muzzle flashes added in post are as good as the real deal: yes, of course they are, it's the easiest thing, what the f***.'

Director Megan Griffiths said: 'I often get pushback when I demand completely disabled, non-firing weapons on set, but this is why.

'Mistakes happen, and when they involve guns, mistakes kill. No gun ever needs to fire on set.

'Muzzle flashes are the easiest & cheapest visual effect. Why are we still doing this?'

Craig Zobel, director of Mare of Easttown, said: 'There's no reason to have guns loaded with blanks or anything on set anymore.

'Should just be fully outlawed. There's computers now.

'The gunshots on Mare of Easttown are all digital. You can probably tell, but who cares? It's an unnecessary risk.'
Elon Musk has slammed President Joe Bidens plan to tax billionaires income to pay for his proposed spending bill as the Tesla CEO saw his companys value top $1trillion and his personal wealth increase by a single-day record of $36billion.

Musk took to Twitter on Monday and responded to a tweet that was critical of the Democrats idea for a new billionaires tax to help pay for Bidens social services and climate change plan.

The worlds richest man predicted that the Democrats plan to tax the wealthy will eventually expand to include new levies on middle class Americans.

Eventually, they run out of other peoples money and then they come for you, Musk tweeted.

Earlier this year, it was revealed that Musk and his rival, Jeff Bezos, have in recent years paid nothing in federal income tax.

Musk's wealth grew an estimated $13.9billion between 2014 and 2018.

He reported $1.52billion in total income and paid $455million in taxes. It equates to a 3.27 percent true tax rate.

In 2018, Musk paid no federal income tax. The records show he paid $68,000 in 2015 and $65,000 in 2017.

Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee, led by Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon, are prepared to roll out the tax revenue plan in a matter of days.

Under Wyden's emerging plan, the billionaires' tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people.

Elon Musk (left) has slammed President Joe Bidens (right) plan to tax billionaires income to pay for his proposed spending bill

The worlds richest man predicted that the Democrats plan to tax the wealthy will eventually expand to include new levies on middle class Americans. Eventually, they run out of other peoples money and then they come for you, Musk tweeted

Musk was replying to a post by Rick McCracken, who warned against the capital gains tax proposal

Musk on Monday saw his personal net worth grow by more than $36billion after shares of his company, Tesla, soared by nearly 13 percent

It would require those with assets of more than $1billion, or three-years consecutive income of $100million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

As it stands, billionaires use much of their money to buy assets like stocks, which are currently only taxed when they are sold.

The new plan would levy annual taxes on those assets for the ultra-rich while they're still in the hands of their owners.

Wealthy people often use these currently-untaxed assets as collateral to obtain loans - a maneuver that allows them to pay lower taxes.

A similar billionaire's tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires' tax rate has not been set, but it is expected to be at least the 20 percent capital gains rate.

Democrats have said it could raise $200billion in revenue that could help fund Biden's package over 10 years.

Rick McCracken posted a tweet in which he warned against Wydens capital gains tax proposal.

He posted a template of a letter which concerned citizens can use to send to their representatives in Congress to express opposition to the proposal.

I expect you to oppose the Wyden proposal to tax unrealized capital gains, the letter read.

The deal is said to be worth $4.2 billion as each vehicle is worth about $40,000 each

Although the proposal targets billionaires and not myself, the government of elected representatives have a track record of scope creep when writing new taxes.

HOW CAN THE SUPER-RICH PAY LOWER TAXES? Many billionaires are able to reduce their federal tax bills using legal tax strategies. Among the ways they can reduce tax bills are: Making sizable donations to charity The rich can reduce tax bills through the use of charitable donations. They can deduct up to 60 percent of adjusted gross income with donations. Investing in stocks to avoid wage income The rich can reduce taxes by avoiding wage income, which can be taxed at up to 37 percent. They can instead benefit from investment income, which is often taxed at 20 percent. Paying themselves lower salaries If the mega-rich pay themselves a lower salary, they can then take a higher portion of the income as dividends. The lower salary is then taxed a normal rate. Dividends are often taxed the same as the capital gains rate, which is between 15 to 20 percent. Another option is to opt for part of their compensation in their company stock options. Stock is usually only taxed when the options are exercised. Advertisement

McCracken predicted that after Democrats tax the ultra-wealthy, any new unrealized capital gains taxes will slowly make their way down to middle class retirement investments over the next several years.

It will start with billionaires, then eventually millionaires, then the modest investments will get hit possibly within a decade, McCracken continued.

Although principle residences and holdings in 401K plans apparently will be excluded, the Wyden proposal takes new tax hikes a step closer to imposing unrealized capital gains tax on the average investor.

Musk agreed with McCrackens post, tweeting: Exactly. Eventually, they run out of other peoples money and then they come for you.

Despite concerns about possibly paying more taxes, Musk had reason to celebrate on Monday.

Hertz announced on Monday that it will buy 100,000 electric vehicles from Tesla, one of the largest purchases of battery-powered cars in history and the latest evidence of the nation's increasing commitment to EV technology.

The news of the deal triggered a rally in Tesla's stock, driving the carmaker's market value over the $1trillion mark for the first time.

The purchase by one of the world's leading rental car companies reflects its confidence that electric vehicles are gaining acceptance with environmentally minded consumers as an alternative to vehicles powered by petroleum-burning internal combustion engines.

Shares of Tesla surged by nearly 13 percent on Wall Street - adding another $36billion to Musk's personal net worth.

As of Tuesday morning, Musk's fortune is valued at $289billion, according to Bloomberg. He is nearly $100billion wealthier than the second-richest man in the world - Amazon founder Jeff Bezos.

By the close of trading on Monday, Bezos was worth a measly $192.6billion.

Some tax experts worry that the new plan would complicate the already byzantine American tax system and that it wouldn't be enough to offset the costs of Biden's $2 trillion 'human infrastructure' bill, because of the relatively small number of people it would affect.

Others worry that centrist Democrats would reject the tax hike.

House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal, a Democrat from Massachusetts, said the Wyden plan could 'become really complex.'

'When you do rates, theyre efficient and theyre easily implemented. Unlike the more esoteric ideas of taxing this or taxing that, rates are simple by nature. People understand them,' Neal said.

The proposal would tax the 'unrealized gains' of billionaires' stocks and bonds every year. Above, Bloomberg's Billionaire Index shows the current richest people in the world

'Theres only one proposal on revenue that has passed a legislative body. Its ours.'

Joshua McCabe, a senior fellow for policy and welfare at the center-right Niskanen Center, says there's just not enough billionaires for the plan to raise that much money.

'Countries with a more robust welfare state tax everybody a bit more, rather than just the rich,' McCabe told the Post.

'The amount of revenue you can get from squeezing folks making more than $400,000 per year is small, and if youre looking at billionaires its even smaller.'

Democratic Rep. Ro Khanna of California also says that the hike is not enough, though he noted that it will heavily impact his district, which includes Silicon Valley.

'It would have to be coupled with this minimum tax, which the president has talked about, that there are about 50 corporations that are paying zero percent in taxes, and they would have to pay at least 7 percent in tax,' he told Fox News' Chris Wallace on Sunday.

'So Amazon would have to pay 7 percent. If you had both of those and you raised the revenue, I would vote for it.'

Sen. Mitt Romney of Utah, one of the richest members of Congress with an estimated $271m fortune, called it a 'very bad idea,' according to the New York Times, saying that the rich would just stop buying stocks and put their money in diamonds or paintings instead.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called it a 'hare-brained scheme' and warned of revenue drying up during downturns.

Some Republicans indicated such a tax plan could be challenged in court.

The plan is part of a strategy to raise taxes on the wealthy above the preference of centrist Democrats like Krysten Sinema of Arizona and Joe Manchin III of West Virginia, who oppose wider measures.

TAX DATA FOR RICHEST AMERICANS: 2014 to 2018 Warren Buffett Year Total taxes paid Total income reported 2014 $7.93 million $46.8 million 2015 $1.85 million $11.6 million 2016 $3.82 million $19.6 million 2017 $4.75 million $22 million 2018 $5.36 million $24.8 million Jeff Bezos Year Total taxes paid Total income reported 2014 $85.4 million $367 million 2015 $126 million $542 million 2016 $320 million $1.35 billion 2017 $398 million $1.68 billion 2018 $43.5 million $284 million Elon Musk Year Total taxes paid Total income reported 2014 $30.4 million $165 million 2015 $78.5K $3.15 million 2016 $42 million $1.34 billion 2017 $73.7K $6.22 million 2018 $8.41K $3.85 million Source: IRS DATA OBTAINED BY PROPUBLICA

Democrats are betting that it'll be hard for opponents to publicly stand against it.

'It clearly connects in some of the most challenging political communities in the country - it makes Build Back Better enormously more popular,' Sen. Wyden, the proposal's writer, said.

Under the House's bill from the Ways and Means Committee, the top individual income tax rate would rise from 37 percent to 39.6 percent, on those earning more than $400,000, or $450,000 for couples.

The corporate rate would increase from 21 percent to 26.5 percent.

The bill also proposed a 3 percent surtax on wealthier Americans with adjusted income beyond $5million a year.

The panel's chairman, Neal, said he told Wyden in a discussion Monday that the implementation of the senator's proposed billionaire's plan is 'a bit more challenging.'

Neal suggested that the House's proposal was off the table despite Sinema's objections. In fact, he said, 'our plan looks better every day.'

Sen. Mitt Romney is one of the richest members of Congress. He called the new proposal, which would also apply to those making $100M for three years in a row, a 'very bad idea'

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, a Democrat from Arizona, above on Thursday, could stop the wealth tax from going forward. She hasn't said anything about it, but has previously opposed tax hikes

Once Democrats agree to the tax proposals, they can assess how much is funding available for Biden's overall package to expand health care, child care and other climate change programs.

Democrats were hoping Biden could cite major accomplishments to world leaders later this week.

They are also facing an October 31 deadline to pass a related $1trillion bipartisan infrastructure package of roads, broadband and other public works before routine federal transportation funds expire.

'We need to get this done,' Biden said in remarks at a New Jersey transit center.

After months of start-and-stop negotiations, Biden's overall package is now being eyed as at least $1.75trillion.

But it could still climb considerably higher, according to a second person who insisted on anonymity to discuss the private talks.
A series of Gladys Berejiklian's closest confidants have given evidence to a corruption inquiry about the moments the then-NSW Premier confessed her secret relationship with disgraced former MP Daryl Maguire to them.

The Independent Commission Against Corruption hearing into the former NSW premier heard from Neil Harley that he spoke with Ms Berejiklian after she was summonsed to give evidence at a different ICAC investigation last year.

'It was a very difficult conversation for both of us,' he said, adding that the former premier is 'inherently a very private person'.

'We didn't go into detail about when (the relationship with Mr Maguire) ... commenced and when it finished,' he said. 'We talked in broad terms about the nature of the relationship.'

Another former chief of staff to Ms Berejiklian later told the ICAC that on Friday 13 July 2018 the then premier called her and told her 'she'd been close in the past with Mr Maguire'.

Sarah Cruickshank said she thought the call was unusual as Mr Berejiklian was on leave at the time.

It was the day it was revealed that Mr Maguire was a person of interest to ICAC.

Former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian is expected to give evidence to ICAC on Friday

Of the three senior former staffers who gave evidence on Tuesday, Ms Cruikshank was the only one who knew the pair had been in a relationship before October last year.

ICAC counsel Scott Robertson asked if she was 'quite clear' in her mind that it was a historical relationship before Ms Berejiklian became premier?

'Quite clear,' she replied.

'My recollection was she was telling me from the point of view that she was concerned as people might have seen her out with Mr Maguire,' Ms Cruikshank said.

ICAC is investigating whether Ms Berejiklian 1. Engaged in conduct between 2012 and 2018 that was 'liable to allow or encourage the occurrence of corrupt conduct' by former Liberal MP Daryl Maguire, with whom she was in a close personal relationship between 2015 and 2018 2. Exercised her official functions dishonestly or partially by refusing to exercise her duty to report any reasonable suspicions about Mr Maguire to the ICAC 3. Exercised any of her official functions partially in connection with two multimillion-dollar grants in Mr Maguire's electorate, to the Australian Clay Target Association Inc and the Riverina Conservatorium of Music Advertisement

'She said it was before she became premier and she said that a couple of times to me.'

Ms Cruikshank added: 'I didn't get the impression it was a full-blown intense relationship.'

ICAC Assistant Commissioner Ruth McColl, SC, who is presiding over the inquiry, asked Ms Cruickshank, to expand on her evidence about when Ms Berejiklian told her she had been in a relationship with Mr Maguire.

Ms Cruickshank agreed she believed Ms Berejiklian was being honest with her when she said in a phone call on July 13, 2018 that she had been in a 'historical' relationship or friendship with Mr Maguire but it had ended before she became premier in January 2017.

The ICAC subsequently heard that relationship started in 2015 and in continued until 2018. The pair remained in contact until 2020, the inquiry has heard.

'She'd lied to you?' Ms McColl said.

Ms Cruickshank said that was for the inquiry to decide.

She agreed she was 'surprised' when ICAC heard the relationship had not ended before Ms Berejiklian became premier.

One of Ms Berejiklian's lawyers, Sophie Callan, SC, pressed Ms Cruickshank about whether it was simply her 'impression' that the relationship was historical, and not something Ms Berejiklian said to her.

Ms Cruickshank denied that was the case. 'She was categorically clear with me; it was before she was premier,' she said.

As she thought the relationship had ended some time ago, Ms Cruikshank said she and Ms Berejiklian did not discuss whether it needed to be disclosed given the controversy surrounding Mr Maguire.

Gladys's confidant and former chief of staff Neil Harley

'I had no reason to suggest that she needed to do declarations,' she said.

Earlier, Mr Harley told the commission he subsequently discovered the relationship had 'continued on for a lot longer than I had anticipated' and 'it was more recent' than he thought.

He said if he had previously known about the relationship, he and others 'might have provided advice to her about how that situation could appropriately be managed'.

The ICAC also heard that in an email from August 20, 2018, Mr Harley said Ms Berejiklian wanted to 'push' a plan to award millions in funding for a recital hall in the Riverina Conservatorium of Music in Wagga Wagga.

Mr Maguire had quit politics the previous month after giving evidence at an earlier ICAC inquiry, resulting in a by-election.

The commission has heard the recital hall was one of the projects Mr Maguire had pushed hard for in the pursuit of funding.

Mr Harley said in the email to colleagues in Ms Berejiklian's office that 'I personally don't want to push this project but the premier did'.

Mr Maguire's testimony at a corruption hearing into former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian has been delayed due to 'investigative reasons'.

The ICAC is, in part, investigating if Ms Berejiklian engaged in conduct 'liable to allow or encourage the occurrence of corrupt conduct' by former Liberal MP Daryl Maguire, with whom she was in a secret relationship at the time.

Sophie Callan, representing Ms Berejiklian said ICAC has taken evidence from 'seven men' about whether the former premier was in a position of conflict in light of her relationship with Mr Maguire between 2015 and 2018.

The delayed start on Tuesday may have been due to a change in the witness list timetable. Mr Maguire has been switched from Wednesday to Thursday.

Mr Robertson said: 'I don't intend to call Mr Maguire tomorrow' due to 'investigative reasons'.

Sarah Cruickshank, a former chief of staff to Gladys Berejiklian, arrives at ICAC on Tuesday

Ms Berejiklian's testimony was initially set to be heard on Thursday and Friday, but her appearance on Thursday has now been cancelled and she will probably have to return to the ICAC on Monday.

Her former chief of staff, Ms Cruickshank said the relationship between Ms Berejiklian and Mr Maguire was described to her as a historical relationship or friendship before Ms Berejiklian became premier in January 2017, and not one that had continued.

Ms Cruickshank was under the impression that the then premier's relationship with Mr Maguire was not ongoing, and she believed it had already ended.

Ms Berejiklian told the ICAC last year that the relationship started in 2015 and did not end until 2018.

Ms Cruickshank said staff were told after Mr Maguire's appearance at the ICAC in 2018 that if they had 'things to report about Mr Maguire they should'.

Similar to others who have given evidence to the ICAC, she described Mr Maguire's advocacy style as 'very strident'.

Earlier on Tuesday, Brad Burden, a former director of strategy to then-premier Ms Berejiklian, was asked if he would have done anything differently about a funding proposal favoured by Mr Maguire if he had known about his relationship with the former premier.

He said the thought 'advice would have been sought around any potential conflicts of interest and how to manage them'.

Brad Burden (pictured, right with his wife), a former adviser to Gladys Berejiklian, gave evidence by video link to the ICAC

Both Mr Burden and Mr Harley were adamant that Ms Berejiklain always behaved in a 'principled fashion' and was a 'stickler' for the rules.

She never treated Mr Maguire or his electorate any differently, they agreed under cross examination from Ms Berejiklian's Ms Callan.

'Categorically no,' Mr Harley said.

'I cannot recall a single occasion when Ms Berejiklian raised with me either Mr Maguire or the Wagga Wagga electorate. Not a single occasion.'

Ms Cruickshank said Ms Berejiklian always played by the book and she 'never saw anything other than somebody who stuck by the rules'.

'She is very up front and very much full of integrity,' Ms Cruickshank said, which was part of the reason why she was 'surprised' to be giving evidence at the ICAC.

She said there was never any time that she felt Ms Berejiklian was asking her to do something special for Mr Maguire's former electorate of Wagga Wagga.

'A lesser person would have asked me to look at those things,' Ms Cruickshank said.

ICAC witness list Wednesday 27 - Gary Barnes, secretary of the Department of Regional NSW Thursday 28 - Daryl Maguire, former Liberal MP Friday 29 - Gladys Berejiklian, former premier of NSW Advertisement

Mr Harley added: 'I have never, ever, in my time in politics, known a person more fiercely committed to public service, and serving the people of the state than Ms Berejiklian.'

That's despite Mr Harley - who worked for the premier from 2017 and was her chief of staff from February 2020 until her resignation - admitting he had not supported one of the grants at the focus of the investigation, $20.5 million in funding for the Riverina Conservatorium of Music.

It was 'a longstanding wishlist item' for Mr Maguire, but the promise was made during the 2018 Wagga Wagga by-election after his resignation.

'NSW was deep in drought at this stage, and I felt that providing what was a substantial amount of money to the Conservatory of Music would not be well regarded by the community,' he Mr Harley told the ICAC.

He said he couldn't remember how he knew the premier wanted the funding, only that at some point they had 'the briefest of conversations' about it.

However, Mr Harley said the project - ultimately ruled out after recent business case assessments - was not without merit.

'My concern at the time was not about the nature of the project, it was about the nature of the announcement in the context,' he said.

'It's important to note that after the by-election was lost and the new member for Wagga Wagga was elected, he himself made representations and has in fact met with me in my role as chief of staff, advocating for it.'

Gary Barnes, secretary of the Department of Regional NSW, who gave evidence last week, has been recalled for further questions on Wednesday.

Gladys Berejiklian (pictured right) is under investigation by ICAC for her conduct while NSW premier in relation to her former boyfriend, ex-MP Daryl Maguire (pictured left)

Ms Callan said she is seeking procedural fairness regarding the ICAC's investigation into whether or not Ms Berejiklian complied with a legal duty to report suspected corruption to the watchdog.

Section 11 of the ICAC Act states that a NSW government minister and other public officials have a duty to report any matter the person suspects on reasonable grounds concerns or may concern corrupt conduct.

Ms Callan said Ms Berejiklian's lawyers wrote to the ICAC asking for further information about this but had received a 'wholly unsatisfactory' response.

She said Ms Berejiklian was 'entitled to know what it is that is alleged in respect of section 11'.

In reply, Mr Robertson said 'these proceedings are not a trial' and the correspondence contained a 'fundamental misapprehension' about ICAC's role, which is that it was seeking to find the truth and was not a prosecutorial body.

Ms Callan added that the watchdog had received evidence from 'seven men' to date about whether Ms Berejiklian was in a position of conflict in light of her secret relationship with Mr Maguire between 2015 and 2018.

She indicated that Ms Berejiklian's team would argue this evidence could not 'rationally bear' on Ms McColl's assessment as to whether a conflict of interest in fact existed.

Ms McColl did not accept that ICAC needed to change the course its inquiry was taking.

The ICAC inquiry has adjourned until 9.30am on Wednesday when Department of Regional NSW secretary Gary Barnes will return to the witness box.

Ms Berejiklian denies any wrongdoing.
A man riding a subway train in Manhattan was shot in the leg during Monday evening's rush hour in an attempted robbery, police said, and the suspect fled the scene.

The New York Police Department said the man was sitting in a northbound N train just before 5pm when a suspect armed with a gun approached and demanded his cell phone.

Police said the man with the gun fired when the passenger did not hand over his phone quickly enough, hitting the 42-year-old victim in his leg.

NYPD is hunting for the suspect, pictured, who shot a straphanger in the leg during a rush-hour robbery Monday at the Union Square Subway Station

A man who was shot in the leg while on a New York City subway train can be seen sitting in an ambulance on Monday afternoon near Union Square

The man was shot when he was slow to hand his cellphone over as he sat on an N train heading to Union Square

The man was taken to hospital where he is said to be in stable condition

A man was shot in the leg on a Manhattan subway train on Monday afternoon

It happened on a crowded rush-hour N train at about 5pm when a 42-year-old man was approached by another man who was standing and who then demanded the victims cellphone

The train entered into the Union Square station, where the suspect fled onto the platform and ran out of the train station.

Thankfully, officers were at Union Square and applied a tourniquet to the victim's leg to help stop the bleeding.

The victim was taken to Bellevue Hospital for treatment and was in stable condition.

'Last thing we need is for anyone to die, especially when we're on the scene -- so make sure to get that tourniquet on as fast as possible,' NYPD officer Rajandeep Singh said to ABC7. 'You know your first instinct is to run with the crowd, but we don't get paid to run with the crowd.'

NYPD Assistant Chief Vincent Coogan is pictured speaking at the Union square subway

'Things do happen,' said NYPD Assistant Chief Vincent Coogan at a press conference. 'They happen very little in the subway. The subways are safe. We are down in crime this year. One thing I can say is there are way too many guns out there.'

The passenger was not fast enough and was shot once by the suspect in his leg

As the train entered the Union Square subway station, the suspect fled the train and ran into the busy station. Officers are seen gathering evidence

Officers stationed in the precinct above the platform applied a tourniquet The victim was taken to a local hospital and was described as stable

'I'm just happy that I actually came into work today and actually made a difference,' NYPD officer Elijah Pardiu added. 'There was no exit wound. My partner gave me his tourniquet and I applied it. He's in the hospital right now. He's going to be OK.'

'Were not going to put up with this kind of stuff. The subways are safe, statistically speaking, but they also have to feel safe,' said Janno Lieber, Acting MTA Chair and CEO said at a press conference on Monday evening.

'Things do happen,' said NYPD Assistant Chief Vincent Coogan at a press conference. 'They happen very little in the subway. The subways are safe. We are down in crime this year. One thing I can say is there are way too many guns out there.'

Police are now studying surveillance footage of the subway station. The NYPD are looking for a man carrying a black revolver and a dark-colored duffel bag.

The description is similar to that of a man who robbed a bank on Canal Street about 20 minutes before the subway robbery.

A map showing the New York City boroughs where crime has increased (in red) and decreased (in green) in September 2021 compared to the same month last year

Monday's incident is one of many amid the city's recent crime surge: Robberies are up by six percent this September, according to stark data released yesterday by the New York Police Department.

Overall, 2.6 percent more crimes were committed this September than in September of 2020, with 243 more reported incidents.

According to Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) officials, there was a 58.6% increase in major crimes last month.

It included a more than 88 percent jump in grand larceny and a 50 percent increase in felony assaults.

Over the last year, New York has been rocked by a wave of violent crime, fueling fears it is returning to the dark days of the '70s and '80s when murders were rife and the Big Apple earned the nickname Fear City.

Assaults have climbed by 18.5 percent, according to September's NYPD data, and the department revealed it has made more than 3,400 gun arrests so far this year.

The data also reveals a concerning trend in other criminal activity, with car theft up 4.1 percent and grand larceny up .7 percent within the same timeframe.

Despite the mass amount of overtime hours and heavy police presence in certain communities, violent crime has still been on the rise

The shocking upward trend led former state Governor Andrew Cuomo to take the unprecedented step of launching the nation's first ever state of emergency over gun violence back in July.

Now, the situation appears to be getting even worse with a staggering 393 gun arrests made last month alone, bringing the total number of gun arrests to 3,425 between January and the end of September.

This is a dramatic increase of 20.9 percent from the same period in 2020 when 2,832 gun arrests were made.

Last year, the city and the nation was reeling from COVID-19, civil unrest following the murder of George Floyd and political turmoil in the run-up to the presidential election.

Now, COVID-19 restrictions have almost all lifted, the US's borders are poised to reopen to major tourist destinations and Mayor Bill de Blasio is trying to lure back office workers to the city.

Yet, violent and horrific subway attacks and gang-related gun battles are still a common occurrence in the streets of the city.

Mayor Bill de Blasio touted the rise in gun arrests as an 'extraordinary success' Wednesday rather than a concerning sign of a rise in firearm use

Violent crime has continued to escalate in New York City, with total crime up 2.6% in September 2021 compared to September 2020

Shocking surveillance footage taken earlier this month shows a woman jump up from a bench and shove the female victim as a train hurtled into the station.

Anthonia Egegbara, 29, of Queens, was charged with attempted murder over the incident. The victim Lenny Javier, 42, suffered a broken nose and chin but luckily survived.

Back in May, three innocent bystanders, including a four-year-old girl, were also shot by stray bullets in Times Square when a man started shooting indiscriminately in the middle of the day during an argument with someone else.

The young girl was struck in the leg, a 24-year-old woman was hit in her thigh and a 44-year-old woman was shot in the foot.

All survived the shooting, which sent shoppers and tourists fleeing for their lives.

In June, US Marine Samuel Poulin was shot in the back in the tourist hotspot.

He was walking through the area with his family when he was randomly struck by a stray bullet from an altercation involving other people. Poulin was not seriously injured.

The mayoral candidate frontrunner Eric Adams has vowed to tackle the escalating violence when de Blasio leaves office at the end of this term.
The $1 million reward for information that helps find Cleo Smith is drawing bounty hunters to the area where she disappeared.

Last Thursday the Western Australian government announced the huge cash offer for anyone who could provide information leading to the missing four-year-old's location.

Acting WA Deputy Police Commissioner Col Blanch said he welcomed anyone trying to help find Cleo after it emerged bounty hunters had arrived to Blowholes Campsite, north of Carnarvon, where she vanished from in the dead of the night.

'I will ask that people not put themselves at danger or at risk in doing so, but certainly we are seeking everyone, including the property owners up there and abandoned sheds or anything else,' he said.

A $1 million reward has been offered for information leading to the discovery of the whereabouts of four-year-old Cleo Smith, who has been missing since October 16

Bounty hunters and others have arrived in the Carnarvon area of north-west WA to join the search the missing girl, in the hope of snaring the $1million reward

Freelance searchers have joined a 100-strong police taskforce and other Good Samaritans in the search for Cleo

A number of travellers in the area had also joined the searched, which is being worked on by a 100-strong police taskforce.

'It's not about the money, its about the family - we have to find her,' one traveller told 7News.

Some bounty hunters were understood to have started searching areas around Carnarvon, including abandoned mine sites and derelict buildings, for any clues as to how the girl disappeared.

Deputy Commissioner Blanch urged residents of the area to check places that may be 'abandoned' on their properties.

'We would ask anyone to check their sheds, their cars, their old cars, locations that might be abandoned, that's something that I would encourage,' he said.

It has now been 11 days since she vanished from her family's tent at Blowholes Campsite in the early hours of October 16.

'It's not about the money, its about the family - we have to find her,' one traveller told 7News

Police seized CCTV of a car driving down North West Coastal Highway at 3am, around the time when Cleo went missing

In other developments in the case, police have seized CCTV of a car driving down a highway in the middle of the night near the campground where Cleo was last seen.

Detectives are now looking into footage taken from a home on the North West Coastal Highway, which reportedly shows a sedan travelling down the road at about 3am.

'We want the person or persons who were in that vehicle to come forward and contact police,' Detective Superintendent Rod Wilde told reporters.

'We want to know who they were and what they were doing.

'The time is not exact but we believe it to have been between 3am and 3.30am.'

WA Police urged residents of the area to check places that may be 'abandoned' on their properties

Cleo's mother Ellie gave a new TV interview in which she pleaded: 'Just bring our girl home safe - give her back to us'

Cleo's parents gave another TV interview in which her mother Ellie pleaded for whoever has her to 'bring her home'.

'Just bring our girl home safe - give her back to us,' she said

Ms Smith her immediate instinct was that Cleo had been taken, rather than wandered off.

'She was taken, she's gone. She's been taken from our family, from somewhere she's meant to feel safe and she's been taken.'

Anyone with information is urged to call police on 131 444.
The unvaccinated wife of an Iowa school board candidate has died of COVID-19, her husband said on Friday.

Trent Murphy, from Ankeny, shared on Facebook the passing of his wife Renee Murphy, 51, who had opted out of the COVID-19 shot because of concerns it would affect her lone kidney after she lost the other battling cancer.

'We talked about it, we discussed it, we had done all that,' her husband told the Des Moine Register. He said she just 'wasn't ready to get the vaccine.'

COVID-19 vaccines have not been contraindicated for people with kidney diseases and experts say there is no evidence of adversary effects.

Renee, who was a teacher at the Ankeny Leadership Institute, wore a mask as a protection against the virus, her husband said.

Renee Murphy, 51, (left) had opted out of the COVID-19 shot because of concerns it would affect her lone kidney after she lost the other battling cancer.

Her husband, Trent Murphy, who is an Ankeny Community School Board candidate confirmed the news on Facebook

Renee, who was a teacher at the Ankeny Leadership Institute, wore a mask as a protection against the virus, her husband said

COVID-19 vaccines have not been contraindicated for people with kidney diseases and experts say there is no evidence of adversary effects. The US has reported more than 700,000 deaths from COVID-19 since the pandemic started

He had been updating family and friends daily about her status since she became infected with COVID-19 in early September.

Murphy, who is vaccinated against COVID and is looking forward to receiving the booster shot, said he will stay in the race to become a member of the Ankeny Community School Board.

The election is in two weeks. 'If I dropped out, I would have an angel on my back, not very happy,' he told the Des Moine Register.

Murphy has defended parental rights when it comes to masks and supported a decision by a judge to overturn a ban on mask mandates in the state.

The couple had been married for 30 years. They met in the late 1980s and wedded in July of 1991. They have two daughters.

Murphy asked people for 'positive' memories about his wife instead of condolences.

'If I dropped out, I would have an angel on my back, not very happy,' Trent Murphy said

The couple had been married for 30 years. They met in the late 1980s and wedded in July of 1991. They have two daughters

Fifty-seven percent of the population in the US is fully vaccinated. Sixty-six percent have received the first dose

'Just one of my 'positive' memories is hearing her laugh and giggle from around the corner as she was playing with the cats. It was always a fun end to the day,' he wrote on Facebook.

Murphy said every anniversary he gave Renee a yellow flower.

'That's all I could afford when I first started dating her on Valentine's Day, and I went to her house and that's all I had was the one yellow rose because everything else was sold,' Trent Murphy told the Register.

'She had a couple of other guys that wanted to date her. She had all the teddy bears and all the big set of roses, and I was just like, 'I'm a poor college kid and here's my one rose.' But she liked that one rose better,' he added.

The Ankeny Chamber of Commerce, where Renne Murphy was a member, shared a heartfelt statement about her passing.

'For those lucky enough to know Renee' you know that she was the loving energy in any room with the biggest smile and the warmest heart.

'For our Chamber she held many posts, but most importantly, Renee' brought her joy of life and love of people to all she did, giving generously of her time and resources to make the Chamber and the Ankeny community the best it could be.'

Renee was also a former catechist, eucharist minister, and religious education teacher for Our Lady's Immaculate Heart Catholic Church in Ankeny.

In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to causes close to Renee's heart such as contributing to scholarships at Simpson College, The Robert D. and Billie Ray Center at Drake University, and the James Arthur Albert Foundation.
Australian children under 16 will need parental permission to sign up to social media apps under proposed new laws.

Facebook, Instagram, Reddit, OnlyFans, Bumble, WhatsApp and even Zoom would all fall under the new requirements.

The companies must take 'all reasonable steps' to verify a user's age and ensure a child's parent has given permission.

Australian children under 16 will need parental permission to use social media under proposed new laws. Pictured: Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg

Facebook and Instagram already require users to be over 13 in Australia and use artificial intelligence to estimate their age.

Social media giants would face increased fines of up to $10million for breaking the rules, up from the current maximum of $2million.

The changes are outlined in an exposure draft of new legislation released on Monday by Attorney-General Michaelia Cash.

The new law aims to stop children's information being shared without consent.

'The privacy practices of online platforms can be detrimental to children and vulnerable persons, including sharing data for advertising purposes, or engaging in harmful tracking, profiling, or targeted marketing,' the draft legislation says.

What social media companies are included in the laws? For the purposes of the legislation, examples of social media services include: Social networking platforms such as Facebook

Dating applications such as Bumble

Online content services such as Only Fans

Online blogging or forum sites such as Reddit

Gaming platforms that operate in a model which enables end-users to interact with other end-users, such as multiplayer online games wit chat functionalities

Online messaging and videoconferencing platforms such as WhatsApp and Zoom Source: Draft legislation Advertisement

Communications Minster Paul Fletcher told Parliament on Tuesday the online privacy code will 'strengthen protections for children and other groups of vulnerable users'.

'We are being very clear in our requirements on the social media platforms under the code, they will be required to take all reasonable steps to verify the age of users to take more reasonable steps to verify parental or guardian consent for children under the age of 16 years,' he said.

As well as social media services, the code will install new rules for data brokers and other large online operators with more than 2.5million Australian users such as Amazon, Google and Apple.

The code will allow users to demand their personal information be kept from any third parties.

'An individual may choose to use this when, for example, they do not want an organisation to disclose their personal information for the purposes of direct marketing,' the draft legislation says.

However, the law would not give users the right to demand their data be erased.

The proposed law is a response to the Cambridge Analytica data harvesting scandal in March 2018.

The British consulting firm used the personal data of millions of Facebook users to target political ads.

Mia Garlick, Director of Public Policy for Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, said Facebook was still reviewing the proposal.

It comes as Facebook faces a storm of criticism after former employee Frances Haugen leaked internal studies showing the company knew of potential harm stoked by its sites, prompting US lawmakers to renew a push for regulation.

Meanwhile, under a separate law in Australia, social media companies would be liable for defamatory content placed on their platforms.

Nationals MP Anne Webster outlined that new legislation on Monday, calling for more accountability from companies such as Facebook and Twitter.

Under those proposed laws, the e-safety commissioner would have the power to investigate claims of defamatory material posted online and issue notices to service providers.

If the posts are not removed 48 hours after a notice is given, the user who posted the content and the social media platform would be found liable for defamation.

The bill would also allow for a federal minister to set basic expectations of a social media platform on how defamatory posts are hosted online.

This is some of the research Facebook was shown last March about how Instagram is harming young people

Dr Webster said the changes would allow for greater protection for social media users.

'There is very little impetus on social media services to ensure and protect users from harm and defamation,' she told parliament.

'Big tech platforms write their own rules and the rules are inadequately and sporadically enforced.'

It comes after the Victorian MP was awarded an $875,000 payout by a court last year after it found a conspiracy theorist made a series of defamatory posts against her.

Dr Webster's husband and the charity the pair founded to help young mothers were also included in the payout.

Facebook apologised to Dr Webster over delays in responding to the defamatory posts.

Dr Webster told parliament on Monday in the wake of posts being put online, she was worried the defamatory claims made against her would affect the work of her charity.

'I was concerned these mothers would be driven away from the service by lies and left even more vulnerable,' she said.

While the bill said the legislation was likely to limit the right to freedom of speech, it outlined they were necessary to make sure users were protected from online harassment and abuse.

With AAP
A TikTok star with nearly a million online followers pleaded not guilty on Monday to shooting and killing his newly estranged wife and a man he suspected of being her lover - and then confessing to his five-year-old daughter that he 'hurt mommy.'

Prosecutors said Ali Abulaban, who has a history of domestic violence, had surreptitiously installed a listening device on his five-year-old daughter's tablet device, and when he heard his wife and another man talking, he went to her apartment in San Diego and shot them to death, the San Diego Union-Tribune reported.

After the shootings, Abulaban, still armed, picked up his daughter from school, Deputy District Attorney Taren Brast said.

Ali Abulaban, 29, is accused of shooting dead his wife, Ana Abulaban, 28,

Abulaban is also accused of killing her friend Rayburn Cadenas Barron, 29,

The details were revealed during the San Diego County Superior Court arraignment for Abulaban, who pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder as well as special-circumstance allegations of multiple killings, the newspaper reported.

Brast said outside court that Abulaban, 29, is a TikTok star known as JinnKid, with more than 940,000 followers on the social media app.

His account features comedy skits and impersonations of the character Tony Montana from the 1983 film Scarface.

Abulabans attorney did not comment on the allegations during the hearing.

Ali Nassar Abulaban, 29, was booked into San Diego Central Jail last week on two counts of murder hours after a shooting

The details were revealed during the San Diego County Superior Court arraignment for Abulaban, who pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder

Ali Abulaban confessed to detectives and accused his wife of cheating, although the prosecutor said she believes Barron, who was killed was a friend.

Police identified the victims as Ana Abulaban, 28, of San Diego and Rayburn Cadenas Barron, 29, of National City.

About two dozen family members and friends of the two victims packed the courtroom. Several of them sobbed as Brast shared details about last Thursday's killings in San Diego's East Village neighborhood.

Brast said Ali Abulaban confessed to detectives and accused his wife of cheating, although the prosecutor said she believes Barron was a friend.

Abulaban has a history of domestic violence. The prosecutor said Ana called police in September and reported that her husband had pushed her, causing minor injuries. The couple's daughter was said to have been present during the incident.

Ana had filed a restraining order against Ali and was planning to divorce him, reported Fox 8.

According to Brast, Ana Abulaban had asked her husband to move out October 18. He checked into a hotel.

Three days later, Brast said, Ali Abulaban sneaked back into the apartment and trashed it while his wife was gone. He also installed the listening app on his daughter's iPad.

Abulaban, 29, is a TikTok star known as JinnKid, with more than 940,000 followers on the social media app. His account features comedy skits and impersonations of the character Tony Montana from the 1983 film Scarface.

Hours later, Abulaban was listening to the app when he heard his wife and a man talking and giggling, Brast said, and he raced back to the high-rise. Security camera video showed him running out of the elevator on the 35th floor toward the apartment.

Brast said Abulaban shot Barron three times at close range - in the neck, cheek and back of the head - before he turned the gun on his wife, shooting her once in the forehead.

Abulaban then called his mother and confessed, Brast said.

'The defendant then fled the building, went to pick up his daughter from school, still had the loaded gun in his car,' Brast said. '[He] told his daughter that he "hurt mommy" and then he was soon apprehended by the police.'

Abulaban's daughter was in his car when he was arrested, reports NBC9.

Judge Kimberlee Lagotta ordered Abulaban jailed without bail, saying he is a flight risk and a danger to society. The judge also issued a protective order that requires Abulaban to stay away from his daughter, who is being cared for by family.

Abulaban is due back in court for a bail review hearing on October 28.

Meanwhile, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to help Ana's family with her funeral expenses.

'God gained another angel too soon,' the organizer of the fundraiser wrote in the description. 'Ana was sweet, kind hearted, beautiful, talented & a devoted mother She was a friend to so many and she was so loved...this weighs heavy on my heart...'
A white former Louisiana State Trooper who has been charged in the brutal beating of a black motorist engaged in bullying, lying behavior while at the training academy and only got hired because his father was one of the top cop's in the state, according to a shocking report.

Jacob Brown, 31, the son of a former top cop in the state, was charged in September over a video showing him pummeling a black motorist 18 times with a flashlight.

Brown, who was working in Ouachita Parish in the northeast part of the state, was charged with one count of deprivation of rights under color of law, federal prosecutors said.

If convicted of the deprivation of rights charge, Brown faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. His next appearance in court is slated for November 15.

Brown resigned from the force in March after the accusations became public.

However, reports dating to Brown's time at the force's training academy, as well as dozens of interviews with current and former troopers, show Brown has a troubling history.

One report from an instructor claimed that Brown was an arrogant, chronic rule breaker with 'toxic' character traits that should disqualify him from ever joining the states elite law enforcement agency.

Former Louisiana State Trooper Jacob Brown is seen receiving an award for 'meritorious service,' but fellow troopers say he was an arrogant, toxic employee who often referred to black co-workers using racial slurs

In this March 2, 2019 image from police dashboard camera video obtained by The Associated Press, Louisiana State Trooper Jacob Brown slams motorist DeShawn Washington against the hood of a police cruiser during a traffic stop in Ouachita Parish, La., after troopers found marijuana in the trunk of Washington's car. It was one of the 19 uses of force against black people on Brown's record (out of 23 total)

Brown is the son of Bob Brown (pictured above), who was a part of the state police's top brass who would rise to second in command despite being reprimanded years earlier for calling Black colleagues the n-word and hanging a Confederate flag in his office

He was hired in 2014 despite the damning report because he is the son of Bob Brown, who rose to second in command with the Louisiana State Troopers despite himself being reprimanded for calling black colleagues the n-word and hanging a Confederate flag in his office.

When friends and colleagues would ask Bob Brown how his first-born was getting along as a trooper, he'd respond with a seemingly innocuous boast:

'Hes knocking heads.'

The charges against the son come amid a sprawling federal investigation that initially examined the deadly 2019 arrest of black motorist Ronald Greene and has since expanded to include a string of other cases - several involving Jacob Brown - in which troopers are accused of beatings and coverups, even when they were caught on video.

'If youre a part of the good ol boy system, theres no wrong you can do,' said Carl Cavalier, a black state trooper who was once decorated for valor but recently fired in part for criticizing the agencys handling of brutality cases.

Its an us-versus-them culture, these current and former troopers say, in which many troopers and higher-ups are more interested in covering for each other than living up to the agencys image of honor, duty, courage and 'doing the right thing.'

It's a culture in which troopers who gather for backyard barbecues and church on Sundays feel so insulated from scrutiny that they can banter about their brutality on official channels, including texting each other photos of a battered and bloodied suspect with the quip 'he shouldn't have resisted.'

It's a culture in which 67 percent of troopers' uses of force in recent years targeted black people - double the percentage of the state's black population - and in which troopers kept their badges after sending overtly racist emails with such headings as 'Proud to be White.'

Louisiana Gov Jon Bel Edwards speaks at the peak at the Louisiana State Police cadet graduation in 2020. Edwards fought the release of many videos of police brutality

Col. Lamar Davis, superintendent of the Louisiana State Police, has said he still hasn't made his way through the complete records involving potential police brutality

Brown was said to be part of a culture in the Louisiana State Police that was more about 'who you know'

And it's a culture in which state police academy instructors faced with a widespread cheating scandal sought to dismiss an entire recent class of cadets -- including the 'legacies' of several high-ranking police officials -- yet nearly all were allowed to graduate to jobs on the force.

'Theres a corruption that allows the reprobates in state police to just sort of do as they damn well please,' said W. Lloyd Grafton, a use-of-force expert who is consulting on the Greene familys civil case and served on the Louisiana State Police Commission. 'Nobody holds them accountable.'

A potential reckoning in the Louisiana State Police came in the wake of Greenes death on a rural roadside near Monroe on May 10, 2019 - a fatality troopers initially blamed on a car crash at the end of a high-speed chase.

State police later acknowledged Greene was involved in a 'struggle' with troopers but officials from Gov. John Bel Edwards on down refused for more than two years to publicly release the body camera video.

When it was eventually published by the AP this spring, the footage showed white troopers swarming Greenes car, stunning, punching and dragging him by his ankle shackles, even as he appeared to surrender, wailing, 'I'm your brother! I'm scared, I'm scared!'

Fallout brought federal scrutiny not just to the troopers but to whether top brass obstructed justice to protect them, according to documents and people familiar with the case.

Investigators have focused on a meeting that the elder Brown attended in which state police commanders pressured their own detectives to hold off on arresting a trooper seen on body-camera video striking Greene in the head and later boasting, 'I beat the ever-living f--- out of him.'

Greene's death was among at least a dozen cases in the last decade identified by the AP in which state troopers or their bosses ignored or concealed evidence of beatings, deflected blame and impeded efforts to root out misconduct.

Many of those cases involve the state police's Monroe-based Troop F, which has become notorious for its treatment of black motorists and counted Jacob Brown among its troopers.

A potential reckoning in the Louisiana State Police came in the wake of Ronald Greenes death on a rural roadside near Monroe on May 10, 2019 -- a fatality troopers initially blamed on a car crash at the end of a high-speed chase but Greene's family said he was brutalized and troopers engaged in a cover-up

In an incident in 2020, Troopers Jacob Brown, left; George Harper, center, and others restrain motorist Antonio Harris on the ground on the side of a road after a high speed chase in Franklin Parish, La. Troopers exchanged 14 text messages peppered with 'lol' and 'haha' responses in which they boasted about the beating. 'He gonna be sore tomorrow for sure,' Brown texted

In one long-suppressed video, he can be seen pummeling a black motorist with a flashlight, in another he slams a black motorist into a police cruiser, and in yet another Brown and other troopers beat a black man and hoist him to his feet by his dreadlocks.

That was followed by troopers exchanging 'lol'-peppered text messages bragging that the 'whoopin' would give the man 'nightmares for a long time.'

'Theyre not the people you think they are,' said John Winzer, Greenes nephew, who shudders every time he sees a state trooper on the highway. 'Its no different than organized crime. They hang together. They eat together and ride at night together. And s--- like this happens.'

Even the agencys superintendent acknowledged that the state police have lost the publics trust, due in part to an 'old-fashioned culture' in Louisianas northern parishes in which some troopers are conditioned to punish anyone who runs from them or disrespects the badge.

'Its uncomfortable to hear, `You guys are bullies. Its uncomfortable to hear, `We thought yall were better than this,' Col. Lamar Davis, a veteran black trooper brought in a year ago as a reformer, told AP in an interview.

'We've got to face this head on,' he said. 'We have to change quite a few things in our agency.'

This image from video from Louisiana state police state trooper Dakota DeMoss' body-worn camera, shows trooper Kory York bending over with his foot on Ronald Greene's shoulder after he was taken into custody on May 10, 2019, outside of Monroe, La.

Dozens of current and former troopers have spoken of an entrenched culture at the agency of impunity, nepotism and in some cases outright racism

A video that state police attempted to keep secret shows troopers holding down motorist Aaron Larry Bowman during a traffic stop. The video shows a trooper pummeling Bowman 18 times with a flashlight, which the trooper later described as 'pain compliance'

Davis has reorganized his staff, overhauled use-of-force policies and mandated all troopers attend training on intrinsic bias.

But he acknowledged it may not be enough to stave off growing calls for a U.S. Justice Department 'pattern and practice' probe of potential racial profiling by a nearly 1,000-trooper force thats more than three-quarters white men.

One of Davis most uncomfortable reform duties came just weeks into his tenure when he called Bob Brown, a man he once worked for, to tell him 'out of respect' that he had ordered the arrest of his son Jacob and three other troopers on state charges in the separate beatings of three Black men.

'It wasnt pleasant,' Davis said, declining to detail the conversation.

Bob Brown grew up in Lake Providence, a farming town on the Louisiana side of the Mississippi River.

By the 1990s, he was raising his children in a farmhouse about 20 miles outside Monroe. He began working for the Monroe police before joining the state police as a trooper, investigating car crashes on the same rural roads his son would later patrol.

Former colleagues described him as a loyal friend and skilled investigator who brought country canny to his policing.

The elder Browns file with the State Police Commission, which acts as a civil service board, makes no mention of any accusations of excessive force. State police so far have not released his full personnel file.

'He was good at what he did but he wasnt a glory hound,' said Lee Harrell, the former sheriff of Richland Parish who worked alongside the elder Brown at state police. 'He wouldnt talk to the media about his biggest drug bust.'

But in 2000, just months before the state police would name their first black superintendent, Browns choice of words drew a formal complaint from a coalition of Black troopers.

W. Lloyd Grafton, a former federal officer, past member of the Louisiana State Police Commission and an expert court consultant on police use of force said that the state troopers have a culture 'to just sort of do as they damn well please'

Former Louisiana State Police Trooper Carl Cavalier, a black state trooper who was once decorated for valor but recently fired in part for criticizing the agency's handling of brutality cases, says, 'If you're a part of the good ol' boy system, there's no wrong you can do'

Cavalier holds the Medal of Valor he was awarded for an action in New Orleans

file photo, provided by the Louisiana State Police shows blood stains on the shield and uniform of Master Trooper Chris Hollingsworth, in West Monroe, La., after troopers punched, dragged and stunned Black motorist Ronald Greene

Brown was overheard in the office commiserating with colleagues over the results of a state police promotional exam. Some troopers were mad about how theyd scored and felt the test was flawed.

'I dont understand how those `n-----s could pass this test,' Brown was quoted as saying, according to state police disciplinary records. 'Theyre not smarter than us.'

When questioned by internal affairs investigators, Brown said that while he didnt recall making the remark, it was possible because the slur remained a part of his vocabulary.

The same complaint noted Brown hung a Confederate flag behind his office door, though it was not clear how long it had been there before it drew scrutiny. State police in northern Louisiana were sometimes called upon to remove Confederate flags that people would drape over highway overpasses, and Harrell said Brown held on to one of them 'as a souvenir.'

The former sheriff, who is white, insisted that no one working in the state polices Monroe office, including himself, objected to the flags placement.

'Its history,' Harrell said, gesturing as he spoke to a Confederate battle flag flapping in his neighbors yard.

Brown escaped with a reprimand, and many of his white colleagues said they were unaware of the incident, even after then-Col. Kevin Reeves, a close family friend, promoted him to second in command of the state police in 2020, citing his 'phenomenal leadership at every level through the ranks.'

But the story was well known among black troopers, who passed it on to new black recruits as part of state police lore.

'Everyone was of the same accord that he was racist and open and out about it,' Cavalier said.

Brown, who has since retired, refused repeated interview requests, telling an AP reporter on one occasion that 'a lot has been reported that is wrong.'

'I gave 30 years to this state,' the now 60-year-old Brown said before hanging up.

A decade after the Confederate flag in Browns office came down, his son followed him into law enforcement.

After high school, he spent two years at community colleges but didnt graduate and worked for a time as a roofer. In 2010, he was hired by the Ouachita Parish Sheriffs Office, where he spent two years in corrections before becoming a patrol deputy.

Over a dozen complaints of concealed records over Louisiana State Police beatings On at least a dozen cases over the past decade, Louisiana State Police troopers or their bosses ignored or concealed evidence of beatings, deflected blame and impeded efforts to root out misconduct. That's according to a review of internal investigative records and newly obtained videos found by the Associated Press. The videos range from a white state trooper slamming a black man against a police cruiser while he was handcuffed and throwing him to the ground and repeatedly punching him; to a white trooper hitting a black man at a traffic stop 18 times with a flashlight, breaking his jaw and ribs; and a white trooper coldcocking a Hispanic drug trafficking suspect as he stood calmly by a highway, an unprovoked attack. 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. Not only were these offenses not punished, in many cases, it took investigations to force the video footage to come out. Advertisement

Brown applied to the state police in 2014, writing that he aspired to be a trooper because the agency was the most highly respected in the state and 'I like helping others and doing the right thing.'

At the training academy in Baton Rouge, however, Brown quickly demonstrated the type of trooper he would become.

Sergeants scouring the military-style barracks for banned items, such as cellphones, asked Brown if he had any contraband and he said no, according to an instructor's memo recounting the incident.

Then, after a sergeant pulled two bags of chewing tobacco from the ceiling tiles near his bunk, Brown lied again, claiming he had not shared any of it with his classmates.

Sgt. Len Marie, who oversaw the cadet class, said the issue wasnt about banned tobacco so much as it was about integrity. And Marie was certain Brown had none.

'He is willing to cut corners and express himself in a disrespectful and deceptive manner,' Marie wrote in seeking to have Brown kicked out. 'These are traits of a toxic employee that should not be allowed to continue with his training.'

'These character flaws are a strong indication of the type of trooper Cadet Brown will ultimately become,' he added.

Marie, who declined to comment, was chastised by higher ups in state police for writing the memo, according to several people who worked with him. Nothing ever came of his request to kick Brown out.

'No one from up above ever said, `Were not terminating him because hes related to someone, but thats certainly what you were led to believe,' said David Ryerson, a retired lieutenant who worked closely with Marie at the academy. 'Its all about who you know.'

Other cadets caught breaking the rules were treated far more harshly, said Cavalier, who went through the same class with Brown and described him as 'untouchable.'

'A select few cadets in the academy carried themselves with a certain swagger, a vibe that said they were sure theyd make it through,' Cavalier said. 'They didnt have any doubts.'

Before resigning last year, Brown racked up 23 uses of force dating to 2015, with 19 on Black people -- tying him for the most recorded by a state trooper in that period.

With a shaved head and often clad in a leather jacket, Brown cut an imposing figure for his 5-foot-10 stature, and his disciplinary file shows he was repeatedly counseled for unprofessional conduct and profanity as he enforced what he once described as the state polices 'code of righteousness.'

'Why the f--- are you going so god---- fast,' he asked one motorist traveling 92 mph in a 55-mph zone.

In May 2019, Brown responded to a traffic stop in Monroe and struck Black motorist Aaron Larry Bowman 18 times with a flashlight, leaving him with a broken jaw, three broken ribs, a broken wrist and a gash to the head. Brown then mislabeled his body camera footage in what investigators concluded was 'an intentional attempt to hide the video.'

When that video eventually was obtained and published by AP earlier this year, it showed Bowman on the ground pleading for mercy and repeatedly shouting between blows, 'Im not resisting!'

Brown, 31, pleaded not guilty this month to a federal civil rights charge in Bowman's beating and has not responded to repeated requests for comment. Said his attorney Scott Wolleson, 'We will reserve our comments for the courtroom.'

Favoritism toward the family members of top brass is so entrenched in the Louisiana State Police ethos that it is a part of state law.

In 2017, the Legislature carved out an exception to Louisiana's nepotism ban to allow a trooper to remain on the force after his father becomes superintendent.

It was passed specifically for then-Superintendent Kevin Reeves and his son, Kaleb, who was suspended for 4  months without pay this year for causing a rear-end crash that killed two sisters, ages 18 and 11.

Investigators determined Reeves had been driving recklessly, including going 22 mph over the speed limit, yet he was not prosecuted.

Davis, the current head of the state police, says the actions of a few bad troopers shouldnt overshadow the good work done by the majority of his agency every day.

But he acknowledged that he still doesnt have a full grasp of how pervasive excessive force may be among his officers.

Thats in part because supervisors have for years failed to review thousands of hours of body camera footage, including that of Brown and other troopers with troubling records.

Its one of the 'fail points' Davis listed among the 'overwhelming' array of problems he confronted when he took over last year.

Asked whether he is confident there isn't another Ronald Greene case out there that state police brass -- and the public -- dont yet know about, Davis didnt hesitate.

'No, I'm not,' he said. 'We've not looked at every video.'
White students have dressed as what appeared to be 'terrorists' in Islamic clothing with water guns during Year 12 muck-up day celebrations.

Six students from Gilroy Catholic College in Castle Hill, Sydney, wore the outfits to an end of year picnic for soon-to-be high school graduates on Wednesday.

Photos from the last day showed the male students dressed in a kaffiyeh - a traditional Arabic headdress - white shirts and pants and sandals.

An image has surfaced of six male students from Gilroy Catholic College in Castle Hill, portray 'terrorists' at Year 12 muck-up celebrations (pictured)

They held water guns pointed towards other students dressed in banana suits as the two groups posed for a group photo.

The student who supplied the image to Seven News described the young men as 'portraying terrorists'.

'As a graduation celebration, a group of primarily Caucasian students dressed up as stereotyped Arabic men, complete with toy guns to portray "terrorists",' he said.

'This is highly offensive to Middle Eastern individuals, communities, and culture.'

He added 'blatant Islamaphobia' was still rife among schools, saying the muck-up incident was harmful to Islamic and Middle Eastern communities.

Principal Cheryl Merryweather maintained the event did not represent the college's values claiming 'a small group of students' showed 'very poor judgement'.

The school's Principal Cheryl Merryweather has apologised for the incident claiming the event showed 'very poor judgement' and did not represent the College's values

'Year 12 students from Gilroy Catholic College Castle Hill were recently allowed to attend an end-of-year picnic in fancy dress,' she told Seven News.

'Unfortunately, a small group of students wore costumes with Arabic headdresses and robes and carried plastic water pistols.

'On behalf of the Gilroy community, I am very sorry that this has happened.

'The decision to dress this way showed very poor judgment. I also apologise for not directing the students to change out of these costumes.

'At Gilroy College, we take pride in welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. We know that this incident did not represent our College values and commit ourselves to doing better in the future.'
A $4 million home in Sydney's northern beaches will be seized by police after the owner of the property allegedly cut off his tracking device and fled.

Former restaurateur Mostafa Baluch, 33, is charged with financing a 900kg shipment of cocaine to Australia and was granted bail just days ago.

Police allege he is involved in the 'highest levels of organised crime' and cut off his ankle bracelet at about 10.30pm on Monday.

Officers rushed to the Bayview home soon after but when they arrived on the scene he was nowhere to be found, triggering a 'massive manhunt'.

Former restaurateur Mostafa Baluch, 33 (pictured), had been charged with financing a 900kg shipment of cocaine to Australia and was granted bail just days ago

Organised crime squad commander Detective Superintendent Rob Critchlow said the alleged drug kingpin is 'very well connected' and may be receiving help from other alleged criminals.

'To cut a bracelet off your ankle which has been imposed by the court shows a very serious intent to flee,' he told reporters on Tuesday.

'We also know for a fact he has substantial financial assets, which we would expect he's utilising to flee at the least our jurisdiction, maybe the country.

'Anyone in his circle of friends and family should also keep us updated because you can be sure we will be visiting anyone we know is connected to.'

As part of Baluch's strict bail conditions, he was required to stay at his luxurious Bayview home and only leave to report to police at Mona Vale Station once a day.

He was also made to wear an ankle bracelet monitoring device at all times, banned from alcohol and drugs, and restricted from using encrypted apps.

Baluch's bail conditions also warned he was to go near any international departure point.

With the alleged underworld figure now on the run after putting up his home for surety as part of his bail, police said they are now moving to seize the property.

A $4million home in Sydney's exclusive Northern Beaches (pictured in June) will be seized by police after the owner of the property allegedly cut off his tracking device and fled

Officers are pictured at the Bayview home when Baluch was arrested back in June

Baluch, who once owned Cervo restaurant in Northbridge, was swept up by police in June as part of the high profile AN0M raids.

Law enforcement designed an encrypted app and marketed it to alleged underworld figures so investigators could monitor their communications.

He was charged with possessing anabolic steroids, drug supply, and dealing with the proceeds of crime and later hit with charge of conspiracy to import a commercial quantity of drugs.

He now faces life imprisonment.

NSW Police Minister David Elliott appeared to be seething that the millionaire restaurateur was granted bail by the courts.

'He doesn't deserve the confidence that the court has afforded him,' he said.

'But I'm pretty confident knowing the technology and surveillance techniques of the NSW Police he'll be found.

'My advice to him is to save yourself some time and anxiety and present yourself to the local police station today.'

Baluch, who once owned Cervo restaurant in Northbridge, was swept up by police in June as part of the high profile ANoM raids in June (pictured)

NSW Police Minister David Elliott appeared to be seething that the millionaire restaurateur (pictured) was granted bail by the courts

Detectives started investigating Baluch last year after receiving a tip about a person gambling a huge amount of money at Star Casino.

The betting was flagged as potential money laundering and kicked off an investigation that eventually became focused on drug trafficking.

Police allege they discovered drugs were being imported across Australia and North and South America.

The US Navy seized 870kg of cocaine after intercepting a vessel travelling off the coast of Colombia in October 2020.

Another 900kg of the drug was seized from a boat sailing off the coast of Ecuador in April.

Both shipments allegedly formed part of the overarching conspiracy to import three tonnes of cocaine into Australia.

Detectives started investigating Baluch (pictured being arrested in June) last year after receiving a tip about a person gambling a huge amount of money at the Star Casino

Baluch (pictured after being arrested in June) now faces life imprisonment

Police allege Baluch was the sole financier of the second shipment of cocaine worth a total street value of $270 million.

A 'massive manhunt' is now underway

'This man is a very dangerous offender,' Superintendent Critchlow told reporters.

'The allegations he's been facing indicate that he was involved in the highest levels of organised crime and he presents a risk to the Australian community and probably now the world community.'

Baluch is about 180cm tall with a muscular build and is Mediterranean/Middle Eastern in appearance with black hair and brown eyes.

Police suspect is travelling in a dark grey luxury car and urged anyone who may have any information about his whereabouts to call Triple-0.

Police allege Baluch (pictured) was the sole financier of a shipment of cocaine worth a total street value of $270 million
One Nation senator Malcolm Roberts has posted a bizarre fake vaccine certificate on his Instagram account that proclaimed he was 'fully circumcised'.

The weird image appears to be a response to the Coalition's net-zero by 2050 pledge, reversing the Nationals' position on climate change.

In the caption to the image - which also had another image saying 'flick the UN', but made to appear like f**k - Senator Roberts attacks the Nationals for their U-turn.

But there was no explanation for Senator Robert's 'fully circumcised' post, but the jibe may be trying to suggest the National MPs were emasculated by the deal.

One Nation senator Malcolm Roberts has posted a bizarre fake vaccine certificate on his Instagram account that proclaimed he was 'fully circumcised' (pictured)

Senator Robert's 'fully circumcised' jibe may be trying to suggest the National MPs were emasculated by the deal. He is pictured in parliament

'The pretense, posturing and hypocrisy keep rolling from the Nationals,' Indian-born Senator Roberts, 66, posted next to the fake vaccine certificate.

'Their Deputy Leader David Littleproud's words this morning clearly imply they have surrendered to UN's NatZero 2050.'

Despite the 'circumcision' jibe, and the use of a possible Nazi/NatZero pun, Senator Roberts has repeatedly insisted he is not anti-Semitic.

But Senator Roberts - who lost his Senate seat in a row over his citizenship until that was resolved and he was re-elected in 2019 - has been a long-time opponent of the UN.

Another image read 'flick the UN', but made to appear like f**k

The senator called for Australia to exit UN and called it a threat to the Australian way of life.

In the lengthy Instagram rant, he ends by branding the UN 'communism' and rages: 'They are not just circumcising our country, they are castrating it.'

The senator made global headlines in 2016 when he was confronted on the ABC's Q+A show by British scientist Brian Cox over climate change.

Professor Cox produced a series of graphs to explain how climate change was happening - but Senator Roberts bizarrely dismissed the data as having been manipulated by NASA.
Facebook is facing fresh anger after it announced third quarter earnings of $9billion thanks to a boom in online advertising - despite a series of blistering allegations from ex-employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugen.

The company's net income for the three months ending on September 31 was up from $7.8billion for the same period in 2020, with online advertising bringing in a revenue of $29.01billion, a 35 percent year-on-year rise.

The US firm has also seen a 6 percent rise in daily users reaching an average of 1.93billion in September 2021, despite concerns that young people are being turned off the site.

But the financial success comes amid major backlash for the social media giant after documents leaked by Haugen claimed Mark Zuckerberg regularly placed profits over safety.

Speaking before British MPs, she said the tech firm's algorithms help foster political dissent, contribute to mental health and emotional problems among teenagers and can lead to real-world violence in volatile regions.

Now, amid the news of Facebook profits soaring, there are calls for advertisers to 'step-up' and for 'real change' in the market.

Tory MP Damian Collins, chair of the digital, culture, media and sport committee, told MailOnline: 'This really reinforces Frances Haugen's point in front of the Committee yesterday, that Facebook executives are addicted to their engagement-based model, and will do anything to please advertisers.

'Also, yesterday's results don't necessarily demonstrate advertisers' support of Facebook's business model  rather it is a symptom of a broken online ads market, dominated by a small group of tech giants. If we want real change, we have to regulate the markets as well as the content.'

Advertising app founder Guillaume Kendall at Zedosh added: 'Facebook is a problem at the moment and the current investigations and reporting are important for the public to know.

'With so many people using that platform, there is a responsibility and a duty of care to provide a decent service, even if access to this is free - or maybe especially because of this. But Facebook and other large social media platforms are not solely responsible.

'Their power is gained from billions in advertising revenue. Advertisers and brands need to step up. While social media platforms have a monopoly, it provides very little chance for contenders to provide alternatives, but brands and advertisers could support alternatives and put their money in places that are safer.'

Among her damning claims, it was claimed yesterday:

Instagram may 'never be safe for 14-year-olds' because it turns them into addicts and bullying follows them home;

Facebook's algorithm prioritises hate speech by showing people content based on how much engagement it has received;

This led conservatives to be inundated with conspiracy theories from QAnon and other far-right content;

Facebook is reluctant to sacrifice 'even slithers of profit' to prioritise online safety and 'unquestionably' makes online hate worse;

'Underinvestment' in foreign languages means Facebook is less able to monitor content not in US English;

Facebook is used as a platform to traffic maids in the Middle East despite company promising to crack down.

Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen has made a number of damning claims about the tech giant

A woman using her phone under a logo of Facebook (Niall Carson/PA)

He added: 'Facebook's reputation is going through the mill right now, an impending rebrand and expansion into the metaverse is not going to help shake off the stench or reveal the company in a better light as a monopoly.

'Very soon, associating with this platform is not a good look for any brand. Individuals have little power when so many connect with their friends and family and it will take time for this monopoly to change, but in this time, brands would do better to take their money elsewhere and defund these platforms while they clean up their act.'

Brian Higgins, security specialist at Comparitech, said :'Facebook's entire commercial model across all of its platforms is to ensure third-party access to its users by any and all means.

'They have proven time and time again, despite hosting hate speech, child sexual exploitation, bullying, fake news and a litany of other harmful content that they will only ever do the bare minimum to assuage critics at any level.

Audience vs ethical concerns: Why are advertisers so reluctant to leave Facebook? Facebook announced third quarter earnings of $9billion today, thanks to a boom in online advertising. The soaring revenue comes despite devastating claims from a whistleblower, leading to calls for the advertising market to face 'real change'. Mark Brill, senior lecturer in Future Media at Birmingham City University, told MailOnline that it is inevitable some advertisers won't drop Facebook. He said: 'For many brands, it isn't a simple matter to withdraw their advertising. For corporate businesses, spending is planned many months ahead, with a significant investment across many different media channels. 'Facebook and other properties, such as Instagram, connect with key younger audiences that cannot easily be found elsewhere. 'However, many of Facebook's advertisers are small businesses. It is estimated that up to 80% of them rely on Facebook advertising to find their customers. Stopping advertising could jeopardise their businesses and that may override any ethical concerns that they may have. 'Behind the scenes, Facebook has also mounted PR campaigns to reassure their advertisers. When the Social Dilemma aired on Netflix in 2020, the company issued a two-page document refuting the main criticisms, giving commitments to privacy and ending hate speech. 'Clearly, there would need to be a much more significant shift in advertising away from Facebook to force real changes in their policies. Ultimately though, it comes down to users. 'Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are so embedded in modern life, it's difficult to see how people can simply stop using them. And as long as the users are there, businesses will still advertise.' Dr Bill Mitchell, Director of Policy at BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, added: 'Advertisers probably feel they have little choice but to participate, given the global competition for our short attention spans, being played out across a relatively small number of popular social platforms. 'The bigger question is whether people are starting to realise that social media platforms are engineered to spread content that is as provocative as possible, since that causes greater engagement and therefore generates the most advertising revenue. 'For advertisers to leave social media would mean giving up perhaps the most effective channel that exists on the planet at the moment. A big ask from a business perspective.' Advertisement

'It's hardly surprising, when they are making so much money for themselves and their advertising clients, that they continue to succeed in the face of all their detractors.'

Jake Moore, cyber security specialist at ESET, added: 'As with any business, companies follow the money and Facebook is no different. However, the problem here is that Facebook is more powerful than most companies and has strong social and political influences on the platform.

'The algorithm within lies it's DNA driving the business and it is clear that it is driving profits higher than ever.

'Until the tables are turned or large numbers of people flee the platform, it is likely to continue steering its users towards such targeted content which can be difficult to avoid.'

However, Mark Brill, senior lecturer in Future Media at Birmingham City University, told MailOnline that some advertisers would have to balance ethical concerns with their own survival.

He said: 'Facebook's history on privacy and hate speech suggests that they only make significant changes after the threat of legislation or threats from advertisers.

'Some companies have attempted to put pressure on the social media platform by withdrawing their advertising. In 2020, major brands including Coca Cola, Microsoft and Unilever, suspended their adverts across Facebook-owned properties, following their failure to adequately tackle hate speech.

'These actions appear symbolic as they have not created any significant impact on the company's revenues, which continue to rise year-on-year.

'For many brands, it isn't a simple matter to withdraw their advertising. For corporate businesses, spending is planned many months ahead, with a significant investment across many different media channels. Facebook and other properties, such as Instagram, connect with key younger audiences that cannot easily be found elsewhere.

'However, many of Facebook's advertisers are small businesses. It is estimated that up to 80% of them rely on Facebook advertising to find their customers. Stopping advertising could jeopardise their businesses and that may override any ethical concerns that they may have.'

'Behind the scenes, Facebook has also mounted PR campaigns to reassure their advertisers. When the Social Dilemma aired on Netflix in 2020, the company issued a two-page document refuting the main criticisms, giving commitments to privacy and ending hate speech.

'Clearly, there would need to be a much more significant shift in advertising away from Facebook to force real changes in their policies. Ultimately though, it comes down to users. Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp are so embedded in modern life, it's difficult to see how people can simply stop using them. And as long as the users are there, businesses will still advertise.'

And Dr Bill Mitchell, Director of Policy at BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, added: 'Advertisers probably feel they have little choice but to participate, given the global competition for our short attention spans, being played out across a relatively small number of popular social platforms.

'The bigger question is whether people are starting to realise that social media platforms are engineered to spread content that is as provocative as possible, since that causes greater engagement and therefore generates the most advertising revenue.

'For advertisers to leave social media would mean giving up perhaps the most effective channel that exists on the planet at the moment. A big ask from a business perspective.'

Yesterday, Haugen added that Instagram 'may never be safe for 14-year-olds' as she said the tech giant's own research found children are turning to addicts and bullying was 'following them into their bedrooms'.

The data engineer went public earlier this year with thousands of pages of internal research documents she secretly copied before quitting her job in the firm's civic integrity unit.

She spoke before British MPs yesterday where she accused Facebook of being unwilling to sacrifice 'even a slither of profit' for safety improvements.

Her appearance coincided with her release of a fresh trove of documents which sensationally revealed CEO Mark Zuckerberg 'personally intervened' to allow US right wingers to 'say what they wanted' on the platform.

The memos - which have been dubbed 'the Facebook Papers' and comprise internal research she secretly copied while working at the firm's 'integrity unit' - also revealed how bosses ignored internal complaints from staff for years to put profits first, 'lied' to investors and sought to shield Mr Zuckerberg from public scrutiny.

The data scientist's appearance coincided with her release of a fresh trove of documents which sensationally revealed CEO Mark Zuckerberg 'personally intervened' to allow US right wingers to 'say what they wanted' on the platform

They also show how staff complained to Facebook executives about the company's collective failure to anticipate the January 6 riot, how staff worried about the lack of policing on hate speech, and how the product was becoming less popular among young people.

Facebook says the documents have been taken out of context and are part of a 'game of gotcha' by the media.

As the documents emerged on Monday, Haugen told British lawmakers that she is 'extremely concerned' about how Facebook ranks content based on 'engagement', saying it fuels hate speech and extremism, particularly in non-English-speaking countries.

Some of the most damning comments were posted on January 6, the day of the Capitol riot, when staff told Zuckerberg and other executives on an internal messaging board that they blamed themselves for the violence.

'One of the darkest days in the history of democracy and self-governance. History will not judge us kindly,' said one worker while another said: 'We've been fueling this fire for a long time and we shouldn't be surprised it's now out of control'.

The mountains of crises the company has been buried with over the last few years has prompted some to demand that it rebrand and change its name.

One of its most recent disasters was a tech-driven mistake that brought its entire network down for several hours around the world, costing businesses billions and putting it into stark perspective just how much the world relies on the company to communicate.

Facebook has repeatedly resisted calls to break its products up and says it should be able to police itself.

On Monday, tech experts said the revelations from the papers show Zuckerberg's relentless ambition.

'Ultimately, it rests with Mark and whatever his prerogative is - and it has always been to grow, to increase his power and his reach,' Jennifer Grygiel, a Syracuse University communications professor who's followed Facebook closely for years, said.
The family of a single mum battered to death with a claw hammer after her evil killer hid under her daughter's bed is begging for the murderer to be kept behind bars.

Perth mother-of-two Deborah Boyd was beaten to death in a pre-planned attack by ex-boyfriend Wayne Valenta in July 2000, six months after meeting him.

He pled guilty to the savage killing and was sentenced to life in jail, but 21 years later, he is about to be released into a re-socialisation program to prepare him for parole.

Now Deborah's terrified daughter Melissa Whitten fears he will kill again as he attacked three others before killing her mother.

'Valenta's decision to murder my mother wasn't made on the spur of the moment,' Ms Whitten said. 'He was cold and calculated.

'Now Im scared for every woman in Australia.'

The family of single mum Deborah Boyd (pictured), battered to death with a claw hammer after her evil killer hid under her daughter's bed, is begging for the murderer to be kept behind bars

'He planned the entire crime meticulously, and he also planned to get away with it. He wore gloves and disposed of the hammer and bloodied clothing.'

'This is not about me. It's not about my family either. Sure, I worry for my safety. I really worry my grandmother's safety.

'But who I am really scared for is the next woman who Valenta has a relationship with, just like my mum.'

Valenta, now 53, sneaked into the Boyds' home and hid for three hours under teenage Melissa's bed while he waited for Deborah, 38, to come down for breakfast.

When she appeared, he leaped out and beat her to death with the claw hammer.

Terrified daughter Melissa Whitten (pictured) fears Wayne Valenta will kill again after it was revealed he had struck three times before her mother died

Melissa, 36, revealed: 'In a confession Valenta made to one of his family (who worked with police to secretly record him), he said: "That's when I donged her.

'"Bang. Bang. Bang. And she fell, and when she hit the ground, I went bang, bang for good measure".'

Three days before the attack, Valenta bragged to a workmate: 'How does it feel to know you are going to know a murderer?'

He showed the workmate the claw hammer and added: 'How many times do you reckon it would take to kill her if I smashed her in the head with it?'

Ms Whitten has now started a petition to demand Western Australian Attorney General John Quigley block Valenta's release before he murderers someone else.

'I have not been provided with any proof that Valenta is no longer a risk to women, and that there is no longer a risk of doing what he did to my mother again,' she said.

'We need to make sure the attorney general understands if Valenta is released, he will be accountable if any woman in our community is hurt.'

Wayne Valenta, now 53, (pictured) sneaked into the Boyds' home and hid for three hours under teenage Melissa's bed while he waited for Deborah, 38, to come down for breakfast

Valenta served time in jail for stabbing a previous partner with a pen before meeting Ms Boyd, as well as two other previous attacks.

'We had no idea about any of this. No one told my mother,' Ms Whitten said.

'Our family thought butter wouldn't melt in Valenta's mouth when he was first welcomed into our family, but once he moved in, he couldn't hide his violent and abusive ways.

'My mother was extremely strong-willed, and she wouldn't cop it. She told Valenta he had to leave. Then the stalking began.'

The harassment became so bad, Deborah took out a restraining order against him, but that didn't stop his terrifying obsession.

Melissa Whitten, pictured here with mother Deborah Boyd, has started a petition to stop the killer being released ahead of winning parole

'When he chased my mother's car down, spitting on it, the police helped us take a restraining order out against him,' Ms Whitten said.

'That didn't stop Valenta breaking into our home to watch us sleep.

'Just two weeks before he murdered my mother, he admitted to breaking into our home at night and standing over my mother while she slept, wearing rubber gloves, while he thought about strangling her.'

Deborah's mother Carl Pettifor told A Current Affair: 'They're living in a dream if they think this man is going to change.

'If you did that over a 10 year period to three different women and then it culminated in murdering my daughter, do you think that person can change?

'He's a real dangerous person. I'm convinced if he gets out of jail and he forms another relationship with another woman, he will lash out.

'It's his persona, it's in him. He's a psychopath.'

Melissa added: 'After he killed my mother, he told an undercover police officer: "It felt like f**king 20 tonnes just fell off my f***ing shoulders".

'If that is the pleasure Valenta felt when he killed our mother, I believe he will always be a risk to other women.

'No one has ever told me that he has expressed he is sorry for it. And if he does now, it's because his freedom is at risk.

'To keep women safe, keep him locked up.'

Perth MP Dr Anne Aly (pictured) told A Current Affair that she backed the family's plea to keep Valenta behind bars

The Boyds' home in Perth where Wayne Valenta killed Deborah Boyd in July 2000 (pictured)

Perth MP Dr Anne Aly told A Current Affair she backed the family's plea to keep Valenta behind bars.

'We have an opportunity here to send a very clear message about domestic violence,' she said.

'He himself has said that he's not going to change, he himself has admitted that if he gets let out, he would do it again.

'This person does not deserve to ever be let out of jail.'

Mr Quigley's office told the show: 'The attorney general extends his condolences to the family and friends of Ms Boyd.

'Last week, the attorney general received a statutory report for Mr Valenta, which was prepared by the Prisoners Review Board.

'The attorney general will carefully consider the PRB's recommendation, taking into consideration the requirements as outlined under sections 5A and 5B of the Sentence Administration Act 2003 (WA).'
A gloating EU politician has branded Brexit a 'catastrophe' for Britain and blamed it for the UK's empty supermarket shelves, petrol crisis and truck driver shortage.

Thierry Breton, the French politician who is also the European Commission's internal market commissioner, said on Tuesday that Brexit was a 'real drama' for the UK.

'Look at what is happening on the supermarket shelves, look at what is happening at the petrol pumps, look at what is happening with the shortage of nurses and doctors, look at what is happening with the shortage of truck drivers, look at what is happening in the construction sector,' Breton told BFM TV.

'What is currently happening is a real drama.'

Breton has frequently criticised the UK's decision to leave the EU - last month warning Brexit was 'supposed to boost Britain's global standing' but saying it has done 'pretty much the opposite'.

The EU Commissioner for the Internal Market has also waded into Brexit rows over fishing rights, vaccine production and blasted the UK for its role in a submarine deal with Australia.

Thierry Breton has branded Brexit a 'catastrophe' for Britain and blamed it for the UK's empty supermarket shelves, petrol crisis and truck driver shortage

People wait in a queue to fill up with petrol at Asda in Greenwich, South East London, as Britain experiences a fuel crisis

Supermarket shelves in the UK are left empty amid ongoing shortages as a result of a fuel crisis and truck driver shortage

'Consider that after they said they could regain prosperity, which meant to some extent that every EU national would be kicked out - at least a large part of them - well now they need to come back, because nurses are missing.

'There's 100,000 truck drivers missing ... It is what it is and we deplore it,' he added.

Breton also commented during the radio interview on the ongoing fishing rights row between France and the UK, which has granted fewer than half of the Jersey permits requested by French fishermen.

He said the UK had shown 'bad faith' in dealing with fishing rights but said the EU was 'used to this game now'.

'200 permits have been granted, so it's moving forward,' he added.

France and the UK have been engaged in a months-long row over fishing rights. France accuses Britain of violating the post-Brexit agreement by denying licences to French fishermen who have historically fished in UK waters.

But London says licences have only been denied to boats where skippers were unable to provide evidence of their traditional grounds.

France has threatened to cut power to the Channel Islands, which rely on French electricity, over the row.

France and ten other EU members have called for a common front against Britain over its handling of a row with Paris over post-Brexit fishing licences in its waters. Pictured: French fishermen empty a fishing net in the North Sea

In another of Breton's foray's in the Brexit rows in April, the EU's internal market commissioner said 'zero' AstraZeneca jabs made on the continent would be shipped across the Channel until the company fulfilled its commitments to Europe.

He said 'there is nothing to negotiate' between the EU and the UK.

It came after he boasted over blocking AstraZeneca doses from leaving Europe, claimed the continent had 'plenty of vaccines available' and said the EU would be able to offer one to every adult before the end of summer.

Mr Breton told the FT at the time that EU-made doses must be reserved for the bloc to make up for the shortfall, adding: 'If [AstraZeneca] does more, we don't have any issue, but as long as it doesn't deliver its commitment to us, the doses stay in Europe - except for Covax.'

UK Government sources at the time described his comments as 'disappointing' and accused him of 'not respecting lawful contracts'.

They claimed the only way to get through the pandemic was to find a 'win-win'.

Breton's comments forced the EU's former Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier to try to calm cross-Channel tensions by urging his colleagues to end the vaccine war.

In another of Breton's foray's in the Brexit rows in April, the EU's internal market commissioner said 'zero' AstraZeneca jabs made on the continent would be shipped across the Channel until the company fulfilled its commitments to Europe

While in September, Breton also warned transatlantic ties were 'broken' after Australia scrapped a $40 billion submarine deal with France and negotiated a new agreement with Britain and the US.

Breton said many politicians and citizens in Europe shared a 'growing feeling ... that something is broken in our transatlantic relations' after a series of surprises from the Biden administration in recent months.

'This feeling is unfortunately increasing,' he told reporters in Washington at the time. 'It's not right to think it is just because of what happened last week. It's much broader than that.'
Furious protestors in Sudan determined not to bow to the orchestrators of yesterday's military coup returned to the streets this morning to demand an end to the takeover.

The military coup, which saw Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok arrested, was hit by widespread international condemnation, with the UN Security Council expected to meet later.

Before 2019, Sudan had been ruled over by the dictator Omar al-Bashir for three decades following the military's takeover in 1989.

But Sudan's people deposed their military leaders in 2019 in a revolution that was supposed to guarantee democracy but is now being threatened by a coup against the government.

'Returning to the past is not an option,' chanted the crowds, who remained outside despite soldiers opening fire and reportedly killing at least four people.

Yesterday, soldiers also detained ministers in Hamdok's government and civilian members of the ruling council, who have been heading a transition to full civilian rule following the April 2019 overthrow of autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Angry protestors have taken to the streets of Sudan to demonstrate against yesterday's military coup, with many filmed constructing barricades along streets in the capital of Khartoum

Huge crowds worked together to block roads and construct barricades and protests erupted in Sudan

The subsequent declaration of a state of emergency and dissolution of the government provoked an immediate international backlash, with the United States, a key backer of Sudan's transition process, strongly condemning the military's actions and suspending millions of dollars in aid.

The UN demanded Hamdok's 'immediate release', while diplomats in New York told AFP the Security Council was expected to meet to discuss the crisis on Tuesday.

Announcing the state of emergency, Sudan's top general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan said the army had taken the actions it had 'to rectify the revolution's course'.

Internet services were cut across the country and roads into Khartoum were shut, before soldiers stormed the headquarters of the state broadcaster in the capital's twin city of Omdurman.

While protesting against the coup, some demonstrators even set their barricades on fire

Smoke can be seen rising into the sky from a number of small fires after barricades were set ablaze by angry protestors in Sudan

But clashes still erupted in Khartoum after Burhan's speech.

'Civilian rule is the people's choice,' chanted the demonstrators, who waved flags and used tyres to create burning barricades.

The information ministry said soldiers 'fired live bullets on protesters... outside the army headquarters'.

And video footage shared on social media showed a number of people running along the streets

At least four demonstrators were killed and about 80 people wounded, according to the independent Central Committee of Sudan Doctors.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed concern over reports that security services had used live ammunition against protesters.

Huge crowds of protestors took to the streets of Sudan yesterday after the military arrested the Prime Minister and staged a coup

Burning barricades were a common sight across the cities of Sudan as people displayed their anger at the military coup

'The United States strongly condemns the actions of the Sudanese military forces,' said Blinken, calling for the restoration of the civilian-led transitional government.

State Department spokesman Ned Price said US officials had not been able to contact the detained prime minister.

The United States has suspended $700 million in aid.

A troika of countries previously involved in mediating Sudanese conflicts - the US, UK and Norway - said that 'the actions of the military represent a betrayal of the revolution, the transition, and the legitimate requests of the Sudanese people for peace, justice and economic development'.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said the detention of the civilian leaders was 'unlawful' and condemned 'the ongoing military coup d'etat'.

UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet warned Sudan risked returning to oppression.

'It would be disastrous if Sudan goes backwards after finally bringing an end to decades of repressive dictatorship,' she said.

The European Union, African Union and Arab League also expressed concern.

Abdalla Hamdok, a former UN diplomat and current prime minister of Sudan who was overseeing its transition to democracy, was taken to an 'unknown location' from his house yesterday morning

Bashir, who ruled Sudan with an iron fist for three decades, is in jail in Khartoum following a corruption conviction.

He is wanted by the International Criminal Court to face charges of genocide over the civil war in Darfur.

A 2019 power-sharing deal after his fall saw Sudan ruled by a Sovereign Council of civilian and military representatives tasked with overseeing a transition to a full civilian government.

Jonas Horner from the International Crisis Group think tank called the coup an 'existential moment for both sides'.

Three protestors stand in the middle of a ring of thick smoke as tyres are set on fire

'This kind of intervention... really puts autocracy back on the menu,' he said.

In recent weeks, the cracks in the leadership had grown wide.

Hamdok had previously described splits in the transitional government as the 'worst and most dangerous crisis' facing the transition.

In recent days, two factions of the movement that spearheaded demonstrations against Bashir have protested on opposite sides of the debate - one group calling for military rule, the other for a full handover of power.

Tensions have long simmered within the movement, known as Forces for Freedom and Change, but divisions ratcheted up after what the government said was a failed coup on September 21 this year.

A bridge in Khartoum was blocked off by protestors, who placed large concrete blockades at the entrance, as a crowd gathered and one man held high the Sudan flag

One FFC leader warned of a 'creeping coup' at the weekend during a news conference in Khartoum that was attacked by a mob.

On Monday, the mainstream FFC appealed for nationwide 'civil disobedience'.

'We will not accept military rule, and we are ready to give our lives for the democratic transition in Sudan,' said one demonstrator, Haitham Mohamed.

'We will not leave the streets until the civilian government is back,' Sawsan Bashir, another protester, told AFP.
The mother of two murdered sisters has dismissed an apology from the Metropolitan Police after the force's response to their deaths was found to be below standard.

Nicole Smallman, 27, and Bibaa Henry, 46, were stabbed to death by Danyal Hussein, 19, in Fryent Country Park in Wembley, north London, last June, while out celebrating a birthday.

However, a report by the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) found the level of service provided by the Met over the weekend when they went missing was 'below the standard that it should have been'.

Speaking after this, the sisters' mother Mina Smallman told the BBC: 'We're not the only parties who suffered mental anguish at the hands of the Met's incompetent, reprehensible and blatant disregard of agreed procedures regarding missing persons.'

Ms Smallman said the Met's actions suggested signs of 'racial profiling, misogyny or classism'.

The force said no misconduct was found by an officer and two members of police staff but there will be action taken over their performance, which was found to be inadequate.

However, it said there was no suggestion racial bias played any part in how the missing persons reports were dealt with.

Nicole Smallman (left) and Bibaa Henry (right) were last seen dancing to music with fairy lights around 1am on June 6 after celebrating Bibaa's birthday with friends in Fryent Country Park

Bibaa Henry and Nicole Smallman taken from Bibaa's phone in Fryent Country Park that night

The IOPC investigation found that the inspector closed the police logs after receiving information about the sisters' possible whereabouts from a family member, but that information was 'inaccurately' recorded by a communications supervisor.

This meant that missing persons inquiries for both women were not progressed properly.

Ms Smallman said: 'Sorry is something you say when you comprehend the wrong you do and take full responsibility for it, demonstrating that by taking appropriate proportionate action - which to our minds is not going to happen.

'The investigation was not handled appropriately. The apology should have been done face-to-face and not nearly 10 months later.'

Barry Gardiner, MP for Brent North, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: 'The Met really does need to have a root and branch reform in the way in which it operates, the way in which it treats people and it needs to ground itself much better in the community.'

Speaking on behalf of the family, Mr Gardner added that Mina was in 'absolute anguish' at the report.

Mina Smallman, the mother of Nicole Smallman, speaking outside the Old Bailey in London after Danyal Hussein was found guilty of murder

Mr Gardner continued: 'Quite frankly I think she feels that sorry just won't do. She thinks it's hollow.'

He said that Mrs Smallman, a former Archdeacon for the Church of England, feels that 'active repentance' is needed rather than a passive apology.

He added: 'She feels that this is words, it's not actions and is not going to change things for the future.'

Mrs Smallman also disagrees with the report's findings there was no racial bias in the way the investigation was treated.

Mr Gardner said: 'Mina feels there was racial profiling and misogyny in the way the Met acted.

'This is not simply one isolated failure. There have been repeated failures of the Met but there is clearly an extremely disturbing sub culture that has been allowed to thrive and it must be rooted out and nothing short of that is going to satisfy those people whose lives have been damaged by it.'

Met Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick (pictured) has said the force's response 'was below the standard we should have achieved and compounded the distress felt by their loved ones

The women were reported missing on June 6 when they failed to return home, but police failed to launch search efforts. It was a search led by the family on June 7 that discovered their bodies close to their last-known location.

The IOPC investigation found that the service provided by the Met in this investigation was 'unacceptable'.

It said the inspector closed the police logs after receiving information about the sisters' possible whereabouts from a family member, but that information was 'inaccurately' recorded by a communications supervisor.

This meant that missing persons inquiries for both women were not progressed properly.

The inspector told the investigation that this had been one of 'the most challenging shifts of his career' with 16 missing persons reports open and the North West Command Unit under capacity by almost 50 per cent due to the ongoing pandemic.

The Met said following the investigation several members of staff must subsequently undertake 'unsatisfactory performance procedures.'

The IOPC investigation had also considered whether the force's response had been affected by the sisters' ethnicity, the Met added.

Murderer: Danyal Hussein, 19, who killed the two sisters, seen here in his police mugshot

'After a comprehensive examination of police records, no evidence was found of stereotyping or biased assumptions based on the sisters' race or where they lived,' the it said.

Metropolitan Police Commissioner Dame Cressida Dick said: 'My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the family and friends of Nicole and Bibaa for their tragic losses.

'The way we responded to information that Nicole and Bibaa were missing that weekend was below the standard we should have achieved and compounded the distress felt by their loved ones.

'While we know that very sadly Nicola and Bibaa had been murdered in the early hours of Saturday June 6 2020, before they were reported missing, if we had responded better we may have saved their friends and family immeasurable pain.

'I am very sorry that the level of service we provided fell short.

'We have contacted the family to ask if they will allow me or, if they prefer, another senior officer to visit them at a time that is right to apologise in person.'

A MailOnline map shows where police were called to at around 1pm on June 7 to a report of two women found unresponsive

Police received over 100 calls from the public after appeals for information (pictured, officers guarding forensics tents at Fryent Country Park near Wembley, north London on June 8)

The sisters had been part of a group of 10 people who congregated in the park from around 7pm on Friday, June 5 to celebrate Bibaa's birthday. Pictured: An aerial showing police guarding the forensics tents in Fryent Country Park

'The IOPC also recommended we review the processes and separate computer systems used by different call handlers, and consider whether further training should be provided to ensure all fully understand how systems operate that they might not use as frequently.

'We have already addressed this recommendation by producing an enhanced training information pack for all call operators.'

IOPC Regional Director for London Sal Naseem said: 'Once again my thoughts and sympathies are with the family and friends of Nicole Smallman and Bibaa Henry.

'Their deaths caused unimaginable heartache, loss and grief, feelings which were heightened by the inadequate service the family and friends received from the Metropolitan Police when reporting the sisters missing.

'Had the MPS focused on progressing the missing persons investigation it may have prevented the further distress caused to Nicole and Bibaa's loved ones, who made the harrowing discovery after organising their own search party.

'As well as identifying three individuals whose performance fell below the standards expected of them, this investigation also identified failings in the service provided, for which we have now advised the MPS to apologise to the family.

'It is vital that the force addresses these shortcomings and effects long-lasting change and improvement to help restore public confidence in the MPS.'

Yesterday, devastated mother Mina Smallman has told the force 'the time for apologies has long gone'.

She told Channel 4: 'No one was taking it seriously. There was no search put in place by police. Our phone calls were being disregarded.

'There was no action at all Biba wasn't even on as a missing person on the Sunday after we'd made calls on the Saturday. And you know, it's shameful. It's shocking that.

'Right from the very beginning, they knew they were looking for two girls, two women of colour. I'm trying to understand. Why they didn't follow procedure? What could the explanation be?'

In August, family and friends of the sisters staged at a vigil at the scene of the incident on what would have been Ms Smallman's 29th birthday.

Large crowds lit candles and laid flowers to honour all women lost to male violence.

Both PC Jamie Lewis and PC Deniz Jaffer are charged with misconduct in public office

Two police officers alleged to have shared photos of the sisters' bodies said they were 'sorry beyond measure for the pain they have caused' after being charged with misconduct in public office on May 27.

Pc Deniz Jaffer, 47, and Pc Jamie Lewis, 32, are charged with taking 'non-official and inappropriate photographs' at the crime scene before sharing them on WhatsApp between 7 and June 23, 2020.

Ms Smallman told the BBC at the time that the pictures 'dehumanised' her children.

Nicole and Bibaa were targeted at random by Hussein, who proceeded to attack the sisters as they took selfies with fairy lights.

Hussein had earlier made a blood pact with a demon to 'sacrifice women' in return for winning the lottery.

After being linked to the murder through DNA and CCTV evidence, Hussein was arrested at his mother's home, where officers made the disturbing discoveries in his bedroom.

The blood pact, which stated he carry out the killings and evade the attention of police, was found along with various Satanic symbols.

The letter was signed with his blood and tucked inside were three lottery tickets.

Detective Chief Inspector Simon Harding said that the Met 'had never seen in any murder case before'.

He was convicted of two counts of murder and possession of a knife following a trial at the Old Bailey on July 6.
The parents of Manchester Arena terror bomber Salman Abedi are 'keeping a low profile' in Libya where they are under 'constant' surveillance by Libyan authorities, it has today been reported.

Ramadan Abedi and Samia Tabbal left the UK for Libya four weeks before their son carried out the deadly 2017 suicide bombing, which killed 22 people and injured hundreds of others.

Ramadan, who was arrested and later released by Libyan authorities in the awake of the attack, remains a suspect in the UK police investigation, along with wife Samia.

A Libyan national, Ramadan fought against the Gaddafi regime with a militant group once designated a terror organisation by the US.

Yesterday, at the inquiry into the attack, a senior director general of MI5, said Islamist bomber Abedi was 'likely' to have been influenced in his views by his father.

Salman's brother, Hashem Abedi, is in prison for life for assisting in the terror attack at the end of an Ariana Grande concert. His other brother, Ismail, recently left the UK after being called to give evidence at the inquiry in the attack.

The claim was made as the security chief, referred to only as Witness J, also told the inquiry that there were missed opportunities to stop Salman at Manchester Airport four days before the attack.

Ramadan Abedi and Samia Tabbal left the UK for Libya four weeks before their son Salman (pictured left) carried out the deadly 2017 suicide bombing, which killed 22 people and injured hundreds of others. Ramadan (pictured right), who was arrested and later released by Libyan authorities in the awake of the attack, remains a suspect in the UK police investigation, along with wife Samia

Salman's brother, Hashem Abedi, is in prison for life for assisting in the terror attack at the end of an Ariana Grande concert. His other brother, Ismail, recently left the UK after being called to give evidence to the inquiry in the attack.

Who are the Abedi's?: The family who refuse to cooperate with an inquiry into the murder of 22 innocent people Hashem Abedi Hashem Abedi helped his suicide bomber brother Salman plan the sick attack on 22 innocent people attending an Ariana Grande concert in May 2017. Hashem Abedi He helped build the bomb which his brother detonated at the concert. Manchester-born Abedi was in Libya when the bomb went off and was arrested there and extradited to the UK. Prior to the attack, the college drop-out, who worked as a takeaway driver, started asking the owner of the restaurant he was working for if he could take the metal vegetable oil cans away for scrap. Hashem and Salman started using them to test homemade explosives they were experimenting with at their property on Elsmore Road, Manchester. Hashem was jailed for life, with a minimum term of 55 years, after being convicted of 22 counts of murder. He has refused to cooperate with the inquiry. Ramandan Abedi The father of the pair responsible for the Manchester Arena bombings is a Libyan-British national who fought against the Gaddafi regime in with militant group Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG) - which was designated a terrorist organisation by the US. It was removed from the UK's proscribed terror group list in November 2019. Ramadan Abedi He was arrested in Libya alongside Hashem, but was released without charge. In Manchester, Ramadan, worked as a security officer, and was assigned the role of muezzin - the person who proclaims the call to the daily prayer five times a day - at Didsbury mosque in Manchester. In 2011, Ramadan he travelled back to Libya to fight in a civil war, according to the Guardian. Shortly before he was arrested in Libya in 2017 he 'condemned' terrorist attacks on civilians. He still lives in Libya, having left the UK four weeks before his son's terror attack, and has refused to cooperate with the inquiry. Samia Abedi Samia Abedi is the mother of the brothers involved in the Manchester Arena bombing. Little is known about her background, other than that she lived with Ramadan in south Manchester for more than a decade and that all of the pair's children were enrolled in schools in the UK. She is known to have left the UK in 2016. She continued to receive tax credits, child and housing benefit of about 550 a week, even though she left the UK for Libya in October 2016. During Hashem's trial, it was heard how her two sons used her bank card to buy a battery and other items before the 2017 attack. Her bank statements showed a series of large cash withdrawals of between 50 and 300 each month in the UK after she left the country. She still lives in Libya and has refused to cooperate with the inquiry. Joamana Abedi Little is known about Joamana Abedi, the sister of the pair involved in the Manchester Arena bombings. She is known to be living in Libya and has refused to cooperate with the inquiry. In 2017, she gave an interview after the attack in which she described her brother as 'kind and loving' and that she was 'surprised' by what he did. She said he may have carried out the attack because he wanted revenge for US air strikes on Syria. Ismail Abedi Ismail Abedi The eldest of the brothers, Ismail Abedi up until recently was still living in Manchester. He has previously apologised for the actions of his brothers. In an interview with Sky News he said he had 'no idea his brothers had taken this path'. 'I want to apologise on behalf of my family to the victims, for all the pain Hashem and Salman caused,' he said. On his brother's life sentence, Ismail, who has a wife and child, added: 'I'm glad this has happened because I can put it all behind me, get on with my life and look after my family.' But he has refused to cooperate with the inquiry into the attack. He asked to strike a deal with officials for immunity from prosecution in return for his evidence at the inquiry - a deal that was declined by officials. He left the UK days before he had been called to give evidence at the inquiry. Advertisement

The bomber was was taken to Libya by his parents in April 2017 on a one-way ticket, but returned to the UK on May 18 2017, four days before his attack.

Witness J agreed that Abedi should have been put on a 'ports action list' to alert the police when he returned from Libya.

'It would have been the better course of action,' he said.

'We were relying on investigators to make judgements about who should go on to some form of ports action and we've since then standardised the approach.

'I think that would have been a stronger process had we introduced it before then.'

Despite denying any knowledge of the attack, Ramadan is a suspect in the ongoing police investigation into the Manchester Arena bombing.

His fingerprints were found inside a car used by his sons to store explosives and bomb-making material. He and his wife have both refused to cooperate with the inquiry into the attack.

Ramadan is currently living with Samia in their family home on the outskirts of the Libyan capital Tripoli

Libya's foreign minister Najla El-Mangoush told the BBC authorities in Libya and in Britain are in contact with the Abedi family.

Ms El-Mangoush, who is British born, told the broadcaster: 'I think there is collaboration between the general attorney office, and some figures in England related to this issue

'I am not sure if there is any positive outcome. We respect the judicial system and we don't want to interfere, but also we are willing to collaborate from a political perspective if there is anything we can do from our side.'

Libya extradited Hashem Abedi to the UK in 2019. He was jailed for life, with a minimum term of 55 years, for the murder of 22 people after he was found to have helped his brother in planning of the attack.

Yesterday, Witness J told the inquiry that it was 'likely' that Ramadan 'shaped' his son Salman's extremist beliefs.

The MI5 officer also revealed how security services were aware that Salman had links to a serious crime gang in the city prior to the attack.

The inquiry heard from Witness J how MI5 came close to reopening an investigation into Salman's terror links.

A meeting was due to take place nine days after Salman carried out the attack, the inquiry heard.

The evidence, given from behind a specially made wooden screen to protect the MI5 officer's identity, was heard at the ongoing inquiry into the terror attack.

The inquiry is examining whether a probe into Salman should have been re-opened as a subject of interest in 2016, prior to the atrocity.

As part of the inquiry officials have been attempting to obtain evidence from friends and family members about Salman's background and how he came to be radicalised.

The hearing had earlier heard how Salman's brother, Ismail Abedi, had fled the country after being served a notice demanding he attend the inquiry.

He said he would only help the inquiry if he was given immunity from prosecution - a request that was rejected. Their brother, Hashem, has been jailed for life for helping Salman carry out the 2017 attack.

But asked about their father, Ramada, Witness J told the inquiry today: 'Salman Abedi was assessed as likely his extreme views were informed by his father, Ramadan Abedi'.

Witness J also told the inquiry it was 'reasonable' not to re-open an investigation into Salman after two separate pieces of intelligence were received about him in the months before the attack.

Salman was in touch, directly and indirectly, with six different 'subjects of interest' in the years before the attack, officer said.

The senior officer also revealed that Abedi had links to a serious crime gang in the city.

Abedi was investigated as a 'subject of interest' himself in 2014 and briefly in 2015 and a meeting to decide whether to re-open his case was days away when he launched his attack.

The intelligence received in the months before the attack was assessed at the time to relate to 'non-nefarious activity' or 'non-terrorist criminality' on his part.

Paul Greaney QC, for the inquiry said that 'in retrospect this intelligence was highly relevant to the planned attack, but the significance of it was not fully appreciated at the time.'

But Witness J told the inquiry: 'This was fragments of the picture held at the time. In our post-attack work, looking back, we can see if was highly relevant to the planned attack.'

Asked if he would make the same assessment 'not applying hindsight and judgment retrospectively', the officer said: 'In our view it was a reasonable judgment to make that he was not associated with terrorism and reasonable not to reopen the investigation on that basis.'

The officer, one of three director generals, gave evidence from inside a specially built wooden box to a court room at Manchester Magistrates Court, packed with members of the victims' families and lawyers.

Earlier he told the inquiry: 'We assess that Salman Abedi was part of a group of individuals in South Manchester who had links to a serious crime gang.'

The officer added: 'The challenge for us is when individuals are involved in terrorism and crime, some of their behaviour and activity can look the same.

'It can be difficult to distinguish, for example drug dealing and fraud from national security activity.'

Libya extradited Hashem (pictured) in 2019. He was jailed for life, with a minimum term of 55 years, for the murder of 22 people for helping his brother in the attack

The family home in Libya where Salman Abedi spent his final days plotting the Manchester terror attack

Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi was in contact with EIGHT MI5 'suspects' in the years before carrying out terror attack, inquiry hears The Manchester Arena bomber had contact with eight individuals who were 'subjects of interest' to MI5, the inquiry into the terror attack heard yesterday. The revelation brought accusations from lawyers for the families of the blast victims that the intelligence agency had failed them. 'You failed to protect these families and the public from a bomber,' John Cooper QC told an MI5 witness. 'On the most straightforward grounds, you failed.' It came after the inquiry heard that the bomber, Salman Abedi, is 'likely' to have been indoctrinated into Islamist extremism by his own father. The director-general of Counter Terrorism at MI5, known only as Witness J, told how those such as Abedi, 22, with a Libyan background, were exposed to individuals with extremist tendencies from their parents' generation. These include former members of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group  which fought against Colonel Gaddafi's regime and has been linked to Al Qaeda  who moved to Britain. Abedi's father Ramadan has been linked with LIFG. 'Salman Abedi was assessed as likely his extreme views were informed by his father, Ramadan Abedi,' Witness J said. Asked by Paul Greaney QC, for the inquiry, if it was assessed that Ramadan Abedi was involved with the LIFG, the spy said: 'I'm afraid I am not able to go into that in open [hearings].' The eight 'subjects of interest' included one who was in Libya and one in prison. Some were direct contacts while others were indirect. The MI5 witness did not name Abdalraouf Abdallah, a convicted terrorist recruiter whose name was revealed by the Press, and was visited by Abedi twice in prison. The second visit occurred on the day Abedi ordered his first bomb-making chemicals and he also exchanged calls using an illicit phone on the day they were delivered. Sir John Saunders, the inquiry chairman has ruled that there is 'centrally important material' relevant to the question of whether MI5 could have prevented the attacks that cannot be revealed to the public. The inquiry has previously heard there were 18 missed opportunities when the security services could have stopped Salman Abedi. Advertisement

Beginning on December 2013, Abedi's phone number was picked up as linked to 'Subject of Interest A' who was suspected of planning to travel to Syria to join the fighting.

He appeared again in 2015, this time after meeting on a number of occasions with 'Subject of Interest B' who was previously associated with al-Qaeda and being investigated for facilitating travel to Syria.

The final appearance was as an associated of 'longstanding' subject of investigation who had affiliations to a group in Libya, described as 'Subject of Interest C.'

The second two individuals were said to have had a radicalising influence on Abedi but are not thought to have known about his attack plans.

Mr Greaney told the inquiry that 'the security service's general assessment on the intelligence picture as it stands is that no one other than Salman Abedi and Hashem Abedi', his brother serving life in jail for helping building the bomb, 'were knowingly involved in the attack plot.'

In October 2015, Abedi was thought to have had direct links to a senior ISIS figure in Libya and opened again as a subjects of interest but the case was closed the same day when it was found that the links were through a third person.

In April 2016, January 2017, and April 2017, Abedi was identified as a 'contact of a contact' with three individual subjects of interest - the first providing financial support to Syria, the second believed to previously have travel to Syria and the third allegedly facilitating travel to Syria.

On March 3 2017, Salman Abedi was one of 687 subjects of interest to hit a 'priority indicator' for his case to be re-opened as part of Operation Clematis, a result of information received a year earlier.

On May 1, three weeks before the attack, MI5 triaged Abedi's case and decided it met the criteria to be re-opened, but he was correctly believed to be overseas, probably in Libya.

On May 8, Abedi was one of 26 individuals referred to Operation Daffodil for consideration of further 'low level' investigation into whether he had re-engaged with Islamist extremism.

His case was due to be considered by an MI5 team on May 31, nine days after the attack, but the meeting was 'tragically overtaken by events,' Mr Greaney told the inquiry.

Witness J said the Clematis process 'was a relatively new process designed to assess the risk of individuals not being investigated.'

Running the process on closed subjects of interest too frequently would 'potentially have a had an effect on priority investigations' he added.

The officer described how a report by the Joint Analysis and Terrorism Centre (JTAC), a part of MI5, in 2010 highlighted the 'close proximity between violent extremism and criminal gangs in Manchester.

Sir John Saunders, the inquiry chairman has ruled that there is 'centrally important material' relevant to the question of whether MI5 could have prevented the attacks that cannot be revealed to the public.

Salman Abedi was seen 'adjusting wiring' underneath his clothes in the moments leading up to the devastating terror attack which left 22 people dead on May 22, 2017

A total of 22 people, many of them children, died in the terror attack at the Manchester Arena on May 22 2017. Pictured: Armed police stand guard outside the arena following the terror attack in 2017

The terror attack claimed 22 lives at Manchester Arena and injured hundreds more

As a result, for the first time in an inquest or inquiry since 9/11, some of the hearings will take place behind closed doors.

The inquiry is examining whether Salman Abedi should have been re-opened as a subject of interest in 2016, in light of what was known by MI5 and police at that time.

A second issue will be whether Abedi should have been re-opened as a subject of interest in the first few months of 2017 in response to information received on two occasions.

The last issue is whether Abedi should have been put on a 'ports action' list in 2017 which would have alerted police to his return from Libya, four days before the attack

The inquiry continues.
Colvin wants to clear her name to inspire children 'to make the world better'

According to Alabama law Colvin had to move for a white person if they boarded

It happened nine months before Rosa Parks sparked the civil rights movement

Claudette Colvin, 82, was arrested aged 15 for refusing to move bus seats in 1955

Claudette Colvin, 82, was arrested aged 15 for refusing to move bus seats in 1955

A civil rights pioneer who was arrested aged 15 for refusing to give up her bus seat, nine months before the case of Rosa Parks, is fighting to get her record cleared so she can set a good example to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Claudette Colvin, 82, was arrested on March 2, 1955 and charged with two counts of violating Alabama's segregation ordinance and one felony count of assaulting a police officer after she refused to give up her seat to a white person on a bus in Montgomery.

More than half a century later, Colvin is hoping to clear her name and get her conviction quashed.

She said: 'I am an old woman now. Having my records expunged will mean something to my grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

'It will mean something for other black children. I want us to move forward and be better.

'When I think about why I'm seeking to have my name cleared by the state it is because I believe it would show the generation growing up now that progress is possible.

'It will inspire them to make the world better.'

Colvin never married but had two sons. Her first son Raymond was born in March 1956, when she was 16. It was rumoured the father was a prominent white man in the community, Elliot Klein, who sympathised with the African-American civil rights movement.

Claudette Colvin, 82, was was arrested aged 15 in 1955 and charged with two counts of violating of the city's segregation ordinance and one felony count of assaulting a police officer after she refused to give up her seat to a white person on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama (Pictured in 2009)

Even though Colvin's ordeal happened nine months before word famous Rosa Parks's refusal to move seats, it didn't gain the same traction (Left, Colvin in around 1953) Two newspaper articles from 1955 show how she was put on 'indefinite probation' after her ordeal (Right)

Colvin said: 'When I think about why I'm seeking to have my name cleared by the state, it is because I believe it would show the generation growing up now that progress is possible and things do get better. It will inspire them to make the world better' (Pictured, Colvin as a child around the time she was arrested)

How did the Montgomery Bus Boycott start the civil rights movement? The Montgomery bus boycott sparked a decade of change that led to the 1964 Civil Rights Act, which desegregated public accommodations and outlawed discrimination in publicly owned facilities, as well as in employment. Martin Luther King, Jr was a pastor of the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. After Rosa Parks had refused to give up her seat to a white person and was arrested for it, just like Claudette Colvin, the citys civil rights leaders boycotted the transit system and chose King as their leader. In his first speech to the group as its president, he said: We have no alternative but to protest. For many years we have shown an amazing patience. We have sometimes given our white brothers the feeling that we liked the way we were being treated. But we come here tonight to be saved from that patience that makes us patient with anything less than freedom and justice. One year and a few weeks later, the citys buses were desegregated. After the success in Montgomery King set up the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, which gave him a base in the South as well as a national platform. He lectured across the country and discussed race-related issues with religious and civil rights leaders worldwide. After talking to followers of Gandhi in 1959 King was sure nonviolent resistance was the best way for oppressed people to find freedom. From 1960 to 1965, Kings influence rocketed. He found coverage in the media and especially in the new media of television. In spring 1963, police used dogs and fire hoses on Kings protestors in Birmingham, Alabama, as they demanded an end to segregation at lunch counters and in employment. King was jailed alongside hundreds of schoolchildren and many more demonstrators. From Birmingham jail, he clarified his position on nonviolent protest: You may well ask, Why direct action? Why sit-ins, marches and so forth? Isnt negotiation a better path? You are quite right in calling for negotiation. Indeed, this is the very purpose of direct action. Nonviolent direct action seeks to create such a crisis and foster such a tension that a community which has constantly refused to negotiate is forced to confront the issue. King joined civil rights chiefs across the country to organize the March on Washington on August 28, 1963. More than 200,000 people stood peacefully by the Lincoln Memorial to demand equality. King made his famous I Have a Dream speech that has resounded through history. He said: I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of "interposition" and "nullification", one day right there in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers. His words propelled the civil rights movement forwards and in 1964 the Civil Rights Act was passed, desegregating public accommodations and outlawing discrimination in publicly owned facilities, as well as in hiring processes. In December of the same year, King won the Nobel Peace Prize. He said: I accept this award today with an abiding faith in America and an audacious faith in the future of mankind. I refuse to accept the idea that the isness of mans present nature makes him morally incapable of reaching up for the eternal oughtness that forever confronts him. Advertisement

Klein proposed to Colvin but she turned him down, although the two remained friends. Colvin left Montgomery in 1958 as she struggled to find work after being a named plaintiff in the landmark lawsuit that outlawed racial segregation on Montgomery's buses.

She moved to New York to live with her older sister Velma and gave birth to a second boy, Randy, in 1960. It is unknown who his father is.

Although Raymond died from a heart attack in 1993, Randy worked as an accountant in Atlanta and gave Colvin four grandchildren, some of whom have had children of their own.

Colvin worked as a nurse's aide for 35 years in a Manhattan care home before she retired in 2004 and moved to Birmingham, Alabama, 90.6 miles north of her original home in Montgomery.

Soon she will move to Texas with her family. Before then her younger sister Gloria Laster said Colvin wants to set her record straight to be an example to her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

'This is going to be her legacy to them,' Laster told CNN.

In 1955 the driver of the bus she was on had called to complain that two black girls were sitting near two white girls and refused to move to the back of the bus.

The police report said one of the black girls moved when asked but Colvin refused.

It added: 'There were two colored females sitting opposite two white females that refused to move to the back with the rest of the colored.

'Claudette Colvin, age 15, colored female, refused. We then informed Claudette that she was under arrest.'

The report said she had kicked and scratched an officer while he put her in the police car.

Colvin was a member of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and initially looked to Rosa Parks as a mentor, although later the two fell out, perhaps because Parks's ordeal gained more recognition.

Colvin was convicted of disobeying Alabama's segregation laws and assaulting a police office in juvenile court. The segregation convictions were overturned on appeal but she was placed on probation for assaulting the police officer.

Colvin said the trauma continued since her relatives constantly worried the police were out to get her.

'My conviction for standing up for my constitutional right terrorized my family and relatives who knew only that they were not to talk about my arrest and conviction because people in town knew me as "that girl from the bus",' she said.

The police have never told Colvin whether her probation has ended.

Her attorney Phillip Ensler said it was 'murky' whether she remains on probation and she never has had no other arrests or legal scrapes.

He said clearing Colvin's name was 'long overdue'.

As in the rest of public life across the Deep South, Montgomery's bus system was strictly divided along racial lines in the 1950s.

The front of their buses were for white people and while black people were required by law to move back.

Nine months after Colvin's arrest Rosa Parks, a 42-year-old seamstress and activist with the NAACP, gained worldwide fame after refusing to give up her bus seat, also in Montgomery, to a white man on December 1, 1955.

Her treatment led to the yearlong Montgomery Bus Boycott, which propelled the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr into the national limelight and is often considered the start of the modern civil rights movement.

As Rosa Parks's story captured the imagination of people across the globe, black leaders met to form the Montgomery Improvement Association, headed by 26-year-old Martin Luther King.

The majority of people who rode the bus were black and numbered around 40,000, accounting for roughly 75% of ridership.

At first their demands only included hiring black drivers and having a first-come, first-serve policy for seats.

White people would fill seats from the front and black people from the back.

Ultimately, a group of five Montgomery women including Colvin sued the city in the District Court and sought to have segregation laws on buses totally voided.

Even though Colvin's case has occurred nine months before Parks's, it hadn't gained the same traction.

This was because Parks's image was more 'acceptable to a white' community as she was lighter-skinned, married and older, Colvin told CNN.

It may also have been because civil rights leaders found out she was pregnant with her first son Raymond, and didn't want to make her the poster girl for their campaign.

Ultimately the success of the Montgomery Bus Boycott inspired Dr King to aim higher.

Almost ten years later he would steer the nation to the Civil Rights Act of 1964, ending lawful segregation in America and winning the Nobel Peace Prize in the process.

On Tuesday, Colvin's legal team filed a request to clear her record for good after 66 years at a Montgomery County court.

Montgomery County's District Attorney Daryl B. Bailey said he believed the original charges against Colvin were wrongly brought.

He said he would also file a motion in support of her case.
Billionaire financier Leon Black is now believed to be the subject of a Manhattan District Attorney's office investigation into claims that he raped and sexually assaulted two Russian models.

Black, 70, a close friend of the notorious financier and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, was first publicly accused of rape and sexual abuse in March by Guzel Ganieva, 38.

Ganieva alleged Black is a 'violent, sadistic,' sexual predator who raped and harassed her then coerced her into signing an non-disclosure-agreement. She went on to file a lawsuit against Black in June.

The model then amended her lawsuit in September to include the accusations of a second woman, referred to only as Jane Doe, who alleged she was violently raped by Black in Jeffrey Epstein's New York residence in 2002.

A legal spokesperson for Black has thus far denied any knowledge of the investigation, while the man himself has steadfastly denied the accusations.

The lawsuit and resulting investigation comes after Black, once one of New York City's most powerful executives as the former CEO of Apollo Global Management, denied any knowledge of Epstein's wrongdoing when his heinous crimes were exposed.

Billionaire financier Leon Black, 70, is now believed to be the subject of a Manhattan District Attorney's office investigation into claims that he raped and sexually assaulted two Russian models (Black pictured in California in 2018)

Guzel Ganieva, 38, is a Russian model who accused Black of rape and longstanding sexual abuse. In September, she amended her initial lawsuit to include the claims of a second woman who said she was violently raped by Black in 2002 (Ganieva pictured in NYC in 2011)

Notorious financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is shown in this undated Florida Department of Law Enforcement photo. Leon Black is accused of raping a Russian model at Epstein's NYC home in 2002, despite previously claiming that he knew nothing of Epstein's wrongdoings

The investigation into Black has reportedly been launched after Ganieva and Jane Doe met with prosecutors to discuss their claims, according to sources cited by Vanity Fair.

Jeanne M. Christensen, a legal representative for Guzel Ganieva and Jane Doe said: 'We stand behind our clients and seek to hold Black accountable. We encourage anyone who may have been sexually assaulted by Black or has relevant information about someone else to contact our office or the Manhattan DA's office.'

It comes just one week after Black made his first high-profile public appearance in months at the Beverly Hilton, when he attended a conference on finance of which his son Ben, a private equity executive, was a part.

The saga began in March when Ganieva first went public with her accusations about Black's long-standing history of sexual abuse and coercive behaviour.

Black resigned from his position as head of the massive investment firm Apollo Global on March 22, just days after Ganieva posted a series of tweets claiming that her abuse at the hands of black started in 2008 and continued until 2015.

She went on to file a lawsuit against the billionaire financier in June, in which she branded him a 'violent and sadistic' sexual predator who raped and harassed her, before alleging that the former CEO of Apollo Global Management forced her to fly to Florida to 'satisfy the sex needs' of Jeffrey Epstein at his Palm Beach villa.

Black had previously admitted to having a six-year affair with Ganieva, which he claims was consensual, and said he paid Ganieva $100,000 a month for 15 years not to discuss the relationship.

But the financier, who is married to broadway theatre producer Debra Black, has refuted all of the sexual abuse claims made against him.

According to an amendment to Ganieva's initial lawsuit against Black, a second woman referred to only as Jane Doe was violent raped by the billionaire financier at Jeffrey Epstein's New York townhouse in 2002 (pictured)

Ganieva alleged that the former CEO of Apollo Global Management forced her to fly to Florida to 'satisfy the sex needs' of Jeffrey Epstein at his Palm Beach villa

Guzel Ganieva has accused Black of rape and a long-standing history of sexual abuse. Ganieva is pictured (left) with friends Natane Boudreau and Claudia Mason in 2011

Black (right) stepped down from his role as CEO of Apollo in march after he was revealed as a long-time associate of pedophile billionaire Jeffrey Epstein (left). Pictured: Black and Epstein at a screening of the film Capote in 2005

Lawyers for Ganieva then in September filed an amended complaint detailing the 'horrific experiences' of a Jane Doe who says she was violently raped by Black in 2002.

Ganieva's legal team said Jane Doe's experiences show that 'contrary to Black's version of events that he knew 'nothing' about Epstein's sexual wrongdoing, as alleged, Black was perpetrating his own sexual crimes at Epstein's home as far back as 2002.'

Black (pictured with wife Debra) already stands accused of years of 'bullying, threatening and pressure tactics,' to 'force' Ganieva's silence, according to a previous lawsuit (pictured in 2017)

Going a step further, the motion alleges that Black had a, 'long-standing relationship with Epstein for years. that involved arranged massages with women for money at Epstein's home.'

According to the amended suit, the Jane Doe met Epstein 'sometime around 2000,' when she was introduced by an acquaintance, a Ukrainian woman.

Jane Doe alleged that a short while into her association with Epstein, she was violently assaulted by Black after he instructed her to give him a massage at Epstein's NYC home.

The suit claims that a 'huge' Black, standing more than 6ft 4in and weighing more than 300lbs, brutally raped her before paying her off.

Jane Doe is described as a single mother of 'limited financial means' and, it is alleged, Black, 'believed that his money couldsilence [her] and nullify his behavior.'

Meanwhile, Black's legal team released a statement saying they are unaware of the reported criminal probe from the Manhattan DA's office and repeated Black's denial of any claims made against him.

'As we have previously stated, Mr. Black has provided substantial documentary evidence in legal filings, including text messages and recordings, that show Ms. Ganieva's claims to be completely false,' the spokesperson said.

'In addition, we have been in contact with the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and provided detailed evidence of Ms. Ganieva's extortion of Mr. Black.'
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Only a dozen areas of England have now not recorded a single case of an offshoot of the Delta Covid variant that experts fear is even more transmissible.

One of the Government's largest Covid surveillance programmes detected AY.4.2 in 303 of 315 local authorities in the fortnight ending October 16, the latest available.

The 12 areas where AY.4.2 was not detected in the latest fortnight were: Babergh, Burnley, Copeland, Hinckley and Bosworth, King's Lynn and West Norfolk, Melton, Mid Suffolk, Newark and Sherwood, Oadby and Wigston, Pendle, Rushcliffe and South Holland.

Despite data showing it is still outcompeting its ancestor, some scientists are now questioning how much more transmissible than Delta the subtype really is.

Figures show it is now behind one in ten cases in the UK, up slightly from around one in 13 a fortnight ago. But the data also reveals its curve is flattening off.

Northumbria University scientists involved in variant surveillance say it is still 'unclear' if AY.4.2 is actually more transmissible because too little is known about its mutations.

They pointed to the 'founder effect' as an alternative explanation, when a strain spreads rapidly because it is the only one in a specific cluster of cases, like a school.

But Professor Francois Balloux, a geneticist and Covid commentator at University College London who was among the first to raise concerns about the variant last week, said the slower rise was 'still compatible' with a 10 per cent transmission advantage.

And Professor Jeffrey Barrett, who heads up Covid surveillance at the Sanger Institute, said the data was 'consistent with a small, but real, growth advantage vs other Delta'.

The above map shows the 12 areas AY.4.2 was not detected in (white) over the two weeks to October 16, the latest available. It has spread to almost every area of England

The above chart showed AY.4.2 accounted for a slightly higher proportion of cases in the latest week  one in ten  compared to two weeks ago  one in 13. Scientists said the slow rise was still compatible with a 10 per cent transmission advantage over Delta

The above map shows AY.4.2 cases across England over the two weeks to October 16. Darker colours suggest it is making up a higher proportion of cases, while lighter colours suggest it is making up a lower proportion of cases

AY.4.2 was first detected in the UK in June, where it has gradually spread across the whole country. Experts estimate it first emerged in London or the South East, but there is no clear proof on its origin yet.

It carries two key mutations, A222V and Y145H, which both slightly alter the shape of the spike protein which the virus uses to invade cells.

Scientists claim A222V was previously seen on another variant (B.1.177) first spotted in Spain before spreading to other countries. But studies suggest it did not make the strain more transmissible, and that it was only spread by holidaymakers returning home.

AY.4.2: Everything you need to know Where did AY.4.2 come from? This sub-variant of Delta was first detected in the UK on June 26, according to UK-based tracking. Scientists say it is likely that AY.4.2 evolved here because the UK has much higher case numbers than other countries. But it is possible that the variant was imported from abroad and then started to spread in the country. Why is it only in a few countries? AY.4.2 has been spotted in more than 40 countries including the UK, Germany, Denmark and the US to date. It may not have been spotted in other places due to a lack of Covid surveillance, which would lead to new sub-variant not being spotted. But travel restrictions may also be behind the slow spread, which have made it less likely that the virus will be passed between countries. How infectious is the sub-variant? Experts estimate that AY.4.2 is around 10 per cent more infectious than the Delta variant. They say this may lead to a marginally higher number of cases, but that it will not trigger a spike similar to that seen when Delta arrived in the UK. Should I be concerned about AY.4.2? Scientists say there is no reason to be too concerned about AY.4.2. There is no evidence to suggest that vaccines are less effective against the sub-variant, or that it increases the risk of hospitalisation and death. But laboratory tests are underway at labs in the UK and Denmark to assess this. Professor Lawrence Young from Warwick University said: 'There is no reason to suggest vaccines won't be as effective.' And Professor Anders Fomsgaard from Denmark's Covid surveillance centre said: 'We are not concerned by this. We see nothing in this point of time that indicates it is more contagious, resistant or pathogenic.' Advertisement

There is more concern about the mutation Y145H, which slightly changes the shape of the site antibodies bind to making it harder for them to stop an infection from happening.

Scientists say this builds on mutations in Delta, and could make the subtype even more resistant to vaccines than its parent.

AY.4.2 has been recorded in more than 40 countries to date, but the UK is the only one seeing a sustained outbreak of the subtype.

It did rise to around one in 50 Covid cases in Denmark in early September, but it has now fallen again to below one in 100. Experts in the country say they are not concerned about AY.4.2.

UK health officials labelled it a 'variant under investigation' last week. This category is reserved for variants which are spreading in the UK that may be more transmissible or better able to evade vaccines than other mutant strains, but is a step below 'variant of concern' which includes Delta and Alpha.

Scientists have raised questions over whether the AY.4.2 is actually more transmissible than other Covid variants.

Dr Matthew Bashton and Dr Darren Smith, both involved in Covid surveillance at Northumbria University, have suggested it might not be as transmissible as originally thought.

In an article for scientific publication The Conversation, they wrote: 'AY.4.2 has grown steadily in volume to the point where it now accounts for about nine per cent of UK cases in the last 28 days.

'But whether its two mutations offer the virus a selective advantage is unclear as well.'

They added: 'Really, it is too early to tell if this is the beginning of the next dominant lineage. Any ability it might have to escape immunity needs to be confirmed by experimental work.'

The scientists suggested the 'founder effect' may explain the spread of parent variant AY.4  the most dominant Delta subtype which includes AY.4.2  in the UK.

This is when a 'founder' virus is the only one present at an area where people mix such as a concert or school.

It spreads at the locations, sparking a higher number of cases compared to other mutant strains. This then leads to data suggesting it is more transmissible but in fact the rise could be because of the events.

The pair wrote: 'Sometimes, for a certain form of a virus to dominate, it doesn't have to be better than others  it simply needs to be in the right place at the right time.'

Professor Balloux told MailOnline updated figures from the Sanger Institute, which makes up the bulk of genomic surveillance in Britain, still suggested the variant was around 10 per cent more transmissible than Delta.

He said: 'I feel that the most recent numbers are still compatible with a 10 per cent higher transmissibility for AY.4.2.

'If the lineage is at 10 per cent on a given day, it would be expected to be at 11 per cent five days later.'

Professor Barrett said: 'AY.4.2 continues slow climb in proportion: 9.7 per cent in England in our most recent two week average, just over 10 per cent if you look only at the most recent week of data.

'Another week consistent with small, but real, growth advantage vs. other Delta.'

The most recent technical briefing from the UK Health Security Agency  which replaced the now-defunct Public Health England  also suggested it may be more transmissible.

Scientists said it appeared to have a 'modestly increased growth rate' compared to other variants, and was better at spreading in households than Delta.

But Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick Medical School, told MailOnline: 'There's no firm evidence of increased transmissibility but it's still early days.

'We don't know anything about the immunology of AY.4.2 and whether it is more resistant to vaccine-induced immunity.'
A Black Lives Matter activist claims a covert police unit used 'distressing' tactics to try and recruit her to become a mole.

Lowri Davies alleges that officers in South Wales spent an hour-and-a-half trying to manipulate her into providing information about the movement and its protests, and whether the far-right could cause violence at anti-racist demonstrations.

She was also urged not to tell anyone about the recruitment attempt as officers checked that her phone was switched off so should could not record the meeting.

The rendezvous took place 'where nobody is going to see you with us' and involved Miss Davies being driven around Swansea, in which she was asked about her family and told she'd be rewarded for providing them with certain information.

However, a recording of an initial phone conversation between her and an officer shared with the Guardian now appears to be the first public evidence that police have tried to approach an informant within the BLM movement.

Lawyers have submitted a complaint to the force on her behalf after the experience, which she described as 'incredibly frightening and distressing', and had a traumatic effect on her mental health.

A Black Lives Matter protest march going through Regent Street in London in June last year

South Wales Police at the scene of a protest outside Cardiff Bay police station earlier this year

Miss Davies, a law student in her early 20s, told the paper: 'If the police are so against racism, like they say that they are, then why are they trying to get informants from groups that are saying that racism is bad?

'If they believed that, they would not be asking me to be an informant, they would be saying 'we really support the work you do' and would leave me alone.'

Frank Matthews, a former Scotland Yard detective who recruited informants for 25 years, added that her suspicion was well founded.

He said: 'Why would you approach a Black Lives Matter activist for information about the far right? It does not make sense.'

The revelations will pile more pressure on police amid what some consider to be unjustified surveillance of political groups engaged in protests.

A recently public inquiry into undercover policing pledged to 'get to the truth' and make known the full facts about tactics used by police spies over decades.

Kat Hobbs, a spokesperson for Network for Police monitoring, a civil liberties group which has investigated how BLM protests have been policed, told MailOnline: 'Lowri is incredibly brave for coming forward after police attempted to recruit her as an informant.

'Given the police response to the growing power of the BLM movement, it's likely that many more people have faced this kind of intimidation and this may be just tip of the iceberg.

'For South Wales Police to target a non-violent community group protesting two recent deaths in police custody is shocking, but sadly not surprising - Black-led groups, including families who have lost loved ones, have many times been the target of intrusive police surveillance aimed at shutting down resistance to police violence and racism.

'Particularly stinging in this case is the police's cynical promise to take action against local far-right counter protesters in exchange for information on the activities of the group.

'Netpol's report on the policing of the Black Lives Matter movement highlighted once again the systemic racism of the UK police response, and among the catalogue of failures the police's willingness to protect and facilitate counter-protests, including where BLM protesters faced physical violence from the far right, stands out.'

Police at the scene of a protest in front of Winston Churchill's statue in London last summer

A spokesman for the force which was said to have approached Miss Davies told MailOnline: 'South Wales Police will neither confirm nor deny any specific details in relation to this matter.

'A complaint has been received which refers to contact made by a covert officer. This is currently being considered by the force's Professional Standards Department and therefore it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.

'The use of informants is a well-established and highly regulated tactic used by police forces across the country to protect the public. Their use is controlled within strict legal parameters by trained specialised staff and the accountability and protection of the informant and the public is paramount.

'Protest organisers have an obligation to liaise with police forces and South Wales Police has a proven track record in working with organisers to facilitate lawful protest while minimising disruption to the wider public.'
A pensioner with a history of sexual crimes dating back 50 years has been spared jail after trying to meet up with an adult posing as a 14-year-old girl - because he's vulnerable to Covid-19.

Convicted rapist Cyril Hardy, 80, was caught red-handed by a paedophile hunter group, Manchester's Minshull Street Crown Court heard.

Hardy pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and attempting to meet a girl under 16 years old for grooming.

He had previously served seven years in prison over a conviction of rape.

Cyril Hardy, 80, from Rochdale, has been given an 18 month suspended sentence after he pleaded guilty to attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and attempting to meet a girl under 16 years old for grooming

Hardy, who has convictions for sex crimes going back 50 years, was filmed by paedophile hunter group Parents Standing Together For Our Kids after arranging to meet a person he thought was a 14-year-old girl outside Manchester Victoria Station

The court heard how Stacey McDonald, 29, a member of paedophile hunter group Parents Standing Together For Our Kids, set up a decoy as a '14-year-old girl' called Atara Louise on MeetMe and WhatsApp.

Alexandra Sutton, prosecuting, said that between October 21, 2017, and November 20, 2017, Hardy told 'Atara' he wanted her to live with him, marry him and have his children.

Ms Sutton said: 'She said her mother was going away for a week.

'He asked her to meet him in the city centre for shopping and said he would take her to buy some new outfits.

'He asked if she wanted a silver or yellow gold wedding ring.'

In addition to his suspended sentence, Hardy has been ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for ten years after he became one of the oldest men in Britain to be ensnared by a paedophile hunter group

Hardy feigned innocence when he was confronted by the paedophile hunter group in November 2017 and insisted he thought 14-year old 'Atara' was older, despite regularly asking her about school during their online chats

The court heard how on November 18, 2017 Hardy arranged to meet 'Atara' at Manchester Victoria station and sent her a photograph of his car registration number.

Once there he was confronted by members of Parents Standing Together For Our Kids, filmed and arrested by police.

A bottle of perfume, an iPhone, and an iTunes gift card were found in his vehicle.

When reprimanded, Ms Sutton said Hardy, who has 16 convictions for 20 offences, said he thought 'Atara' was actually older than she was.

Hardy, from Rochdale, Greater Manchester, said that the talk about marriage and children was 'just a laugh.'

Daniel Gaskrell, mitigating, described Hardy - who originally pleaded not guilty but later changed his plea - as 'a lonely old man who was seeking comfort of strangers, and has been in and out of marriages.'

Judge Paul Lawton criticised two-year delays to the case and said he would have had no reservations of sending Hardy to prison, despite his age.

But, due to the length of time it had taken for the case to conclude, Judge Lawton said he now had the problem that Hardy is vulnerable to Covid, due to suffering from ischemic heart disease and being diabetic.

Judge Lawton said: 'You are a ticking time bomb in custody as far as Covid is concerned.'

Hardy, who was described as 'a man living in a fantasy world', had a dating profile on Badoo

He added: 'You met 'Atara' on different apps. She was a decoy set up by adults.

'She made it crystal clear she was only 14 years old and this did not deter you in any way.

'You said she should bear you with children and you signed off with multiple kisses on numerous occasions.

'You had gifts in your car for "Atara".

'This suggests a man living in an absolute fantasy world, thinking a 14-year-old girl would find you attractive.

'This is all the more sinister with regard to your previous convictions of sexual assault and rape for which you served seven years in prison. Your intentions were sexual although I can not say if it would be penetrable sexual activity.'

The judge said the length of time the case had been 'sat on' since 2017 was 'unexplained and unacceptable.'

Judge Lawton said: 'You are incredibly vulnerable to Covid and that draws me back from giving you a custodial sentence. If you further offend you will be going back to prison.'

Hardy, who appeared in court using two walking sticks, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, along with 30 Rehabilitation Activity Requirement days.

He must sign the sex offender register for ten years and was given a ten-year Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
Switching to 'Plan B' to curb coronavirus could cost the economy up to 18billion this winter, according to internal government documents.

An estimate for the damage from reverting to working from home and face masks has been produced by the Treasury and Cabinet Office.

The document, leaked to Playbook, cites an 'assumption' that the alternative approach - which would also include Covid passports - would stay in place for five months.

Although the scale of the hit is relatively small compared to the 2trillion annual output of UK plc, it underlines why ministers have been unwilling to have a knee-jerk reaction to increasing infection levels.

In a glimmer of hope for the government, there are signs that the surge in cases might be easing.

The government reported 36,657 new infections yesterday, down a quarter on the figure last week and the second day in a row there has been a week-on-week drop. Cases had risen for 18 days prior to Sunday.

Many experts suggest that the October half-term  which for many schools is this week  will drag infection rates down and act as a miniature 'firebreaker'.

It comes amid an escalating row about how the epidemic will unfold in the coming months and whether compulsory face masks, working from home and vaccine passports are necessary (shown left on Boris' winter plan). Sajid Javid, the Health Secretary, has promised a 'normal Christmas' this year

Government's OWN assessment warns that 'Plan B' vaccine passports might backfire and FUEL Covid surge Introducing vaccine passports could cause a spike in coronavirus cases because people may ditch large venues and gather in small pubs with poor ventilation instead, the Government's own impact assessment has warned. Boris Johnson's coronavirus 'Plan B' would see people having to prove they are double-jabbed to gain access to certain hospitality, entertainment and sporting settings. But a document examining the economic and social impact of the policy suggested that it could backfire. The document, written by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), expressed concerns that people could stay away from large venues and meet elsewhere to avoid having to show documentation. The impact assessment, seen by The Telegraph, warned rolling out the policy in England would require firms to hire thousands of new stewards to check vaccine status. It concluded this could be difficult to deliver, while the checks themselves could result in 'bottlenecks' at large venues and stadiums. Advertisement

There were also 38 coronavirus deaths registered yesterday, down around 16 per cent on the toll last Monday.

A technical issue meant the promising statistics do not include data from Wales, which is recording on average 3,200 daily cases and nine deaths per day. The trajectory of the epidemic is likely to remain unchanged, even with the inclusion of Wales' infection numbers.

Downing Street today insisted it has 'no plans' to deviate from the current Covid strategy, but urged patience on the dip in numbers.

'Its always encouraging when you see reductions like that and including, I believe, a levelling off of admissions,' the PM's spokesman said.

'But its too early to draw full conclusions from the case rates and we would continue to urge the public to abide by the guidance as set out and those eligible to get booster doses.'

There is an escalating row about how Britain's epidemic will unfold in the coming months and whether compulsory face masks, working from home and vaccine passports are necessary.

Independent scientists told MailOnline they expect that a combination of the booster vaccine rollout and rising natural immunity in children will lead to a 'substantial and rapid' fall in cases, hospitalisations and deaths in weeks.

The topic has also divided No10's own scientific advisory panel SAGE, with several key members publicly lobbying for more restrictions to safeguard the NHS from being overwhelmed in the coming months.

But many of the scenarios forecasted by the group's modelling teams have daily cases plunging over the coming weeks to as low as 5,000, even if the virus is allowed to spread unchecked. The unusually optimistic modelling has given ministers the confidence to reject growing calls for them to revert to Plan B.

Professor Paul Hunter, an infectious diseases expert at the University of East Anglia, threw his support behind the modelling, telling MailOnline he expects a 'substantial and rapid fall' in the epidemic in the coming weeks.

He said the booster vaccines will top up half of the population's immunity, adding: 'The boosters are working much better than we first thought they would.'

And children, who are responsible for the recent surge, will have acquired significant natural and jab-induced protection, according to Cambridge University epidemiologist Dr Raghib Ali.

However, neither Professor Hunter or Dr Ali believe cases will plunge to as low as 5,000 per day, partly because of the emergence of the new even more transmissible strain of Delta.

Other scientists have warned it is impossible to accurately predict how the outbreak will unfold and that Plan B measures  such as WFH guidance and face masks  should be brought back now to control rising infections just in case.

Professor Martin McKee, a public health expert based at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said he would be 'very cautious about making firm Christmas arrangements' because of the 'high' number of cases and emergence of the AY.4.2 variant which appears 'more transmissible than Delta'.

Modelling for SAGE from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) shows cases could fall to 5,000 per day over Christmas after the virus runs out of steam among younger people who are driving the current high case numbers levels.

Some 5.2million boosters have already been dished out in England, but there has been criticism the rollout is not moving fast enough.

In another optimistic sign, data from Israel show booster jabs significantly reducing cases and hospitalisations.

A Government spokeswoman said: 'We knew the coming months would be challenging, which is why we set out our Autumn and Winter plan last month.

'Plan B ensures we are ready, should we need to act, to avoid an unsustainable rise in hospitalisations which would put unsustainable pressure on the NHS.

'The presumptions put forward do not reflect government policy. The data does not currently show that Plan B is necessary  and there is no planned five month timeline.'

LONDON SCHOOL OF HYGIENE AND TROPICAL MEDICINE: These charts show the impact of returning to normal level of social mixing in three months (bottom) versus remaining cautious for a year - and the impact this would have on infections (left), admissions (middle) and deaths (right). The models show cases plummeting by November in both scenarios thanks to natural immunity but rising in spring (bottom) when vaccine protection is expected to wane
A parish priest who was badly beaten on the grounds of his own church has slammed a police force for not investigating the brutal crime that left his t-shirt covered in blood.

Father Colin Mason, of Sacred Heart Church in Westbury-on-Trym in Bristol, shared a photograph of his bloodied shirt and bruised face after the assault at 11pm on August 20.

His eye socket was fractured in the attack, which happened after he asked a party in the church hall to shut down because it was going on too late.

Father Mason blasted Avon and Somerset Police for 'doing nothing' to investigate the case, despite being initially helpful.

The force has since reopened the case following Father Mason's campaign.

Father Mason told MailOnline the church hall had been rented out for a party that night, which was supposed to end at 10pm.

Father Colin Mason, of Sacred Heart Church in Westbury-on-Trym in Bristol, shared a photograph of his bloodied shirt and bruised face after the assault at 11pm on August 20

But when loud music blasted out of the building an hour later he had to go to the hall to ask those inside to leave.

He said: 'Four blokes bundled me outside and one of them beat me up, so I was lying on the grass covered in blood.'

Father Mason returned to his house and dialled 999. He said officers arrived quickly and ended the party, before calling an ambulance to take him to Southmead Hospital. One also took down the name and contact details of the person who booked the gathering.

Father Mason blasted Avon and Somerset Police for 'doing nothing' to investigate

He added: 'Some people rent the church hall behind us. Theyre supposed to be out at 10pm. There was music at 10 past 11 thumping out. It was disturbing me and I am sure it was annoying the neighbours.

'I just went in to say to stop the party but there was no negotiation. Four blokes dragged me out and one beat me up. I fell back covered in blood.

'Normally if you have people going beyond their time you might have a bit of a discussion but Ive never been immediately attacked.

'I havent been hit since a schoolboy. I dont mix in those circles. It was very strange. It took me by surprise.

'I was expecting them to say "give us a few minutes" so we can clear up and get out but there was no negotiation. I explained I was the one responsible for the building. I said I was the one who let it out to them.

'He was half my age. Im 60 and he was late 20s. He was very aggressive. I said whos in charge and he said "I am". There were four of them who dragged me out and then he beat me up.'

After a month passed Father Mason heard nothing from the police and called to check in. He was told the case has been 'filed'.

'To say they had closed the case was astonishing. They closed it with no investigation whatsoever,' he said.

Father Mason has since written a letter of complaint to ask for the case to be reopened ahead of a 'proper investigation'.

He said: 'I had to explain to my congregation and they were outraged. There are people in my congregation who are retired police officers, my fellow priests are former police officers.

'Were very closely plugged in to the police here and they all said it was simply not acceptable, given the level of violence and injuries you cant close those cases. Its too violent.'

Father Mason told the BBC the church hall had been rented out for a party that night, which was supposed to end at 10pm. Pictured, the church

He said it was an issue of 'public confidence' because a violent man continued to walk the streets with 'impunity', adding that his confidence in the system was gone.

'Its quite strange. In one sense I say it couldve been worse, it couldve been a knife. In that sense maybe Im lucky.

'Obviously Im not happy about the scarring. You do reflect on the fact as a priest you live on your own.

'Youre vulnerable and most priests are older. What if it happens again, do I call the police? People are losing confidence in the police generally.'

A spokesman for Avon and Somerset Police said: 'Avon and Somerset Police received a formal complaint about this incident on 13 October.

'The complaint has been assessed and formally recorded by our Professional Standards Department.

'It has been allocated to the area patrol inspector, who is reviewing the service provided.

'We cannot comment further until that review has been concluded and the complainant updated.'
The main conservative newspaper in Chile has been accused of celebrating the life of Nazi high brass Hermann Goring.

El Mercurio published a full-page illustrated article on Sunday, which detailed the life of the German war criminal.

The page, which was found in the society section of the paper, marked the 75th anniversary of Goring's death.

However, the article quickly came under fire from Chile's Jewish community which branded it an 'apology for Nazism'.

El Mercurio published a full-page illustrated article on Sunday, which detailed the life of the German war criminal. Pictured: The El Mercurio newspaper building in Valparaiso, Chile, in 2019

Additionally, the German embassy in Chile took to Twitter to issue a frank response to the article.

Across two Tweets, the embassy said: 'It is not customary for the Embassy to publicly comment on newspaper articles. We just want to make it very clear: This character, H. Goering, committed crimes against humanity and was one of the pillars of the Nazi regime.

'That leaves not the slightest room to justify or minimize morally and politically - and much less in legal terms - its nefarious role during the Nazi regime and in the Holocaust.'

After receiving a letter describing the piece as a 'direct affront' to Holocaust victims, El Mercurio yesterday said it 'deeply regretted' that the article on Goring had been interpreted in that way.

The page, which was found in the society section of the paper, marked the 75th anniversary of the death of Goring (pictured)

The German embassy in Chile responded to the article on Twitter and said that there was 'not the slightest room to justify or minimize morally and politically - and much less in legal terms - its nefarious role during the Nazi regime and in the Holocaust'

Speaking to the Guardian, Monica Maureira, a professor at Diego Portales Universitys journalism faculty in Santiago, said: 'El Mercurio has a long history of representing the interests of a select, conservative sector of Chilean society and has pushed their narrative in Chile for generations.'

Hermann Goring was one of the most influential members of the Nazi party, having established the Gestapo secret police, as well as being named as the most senior officer in the German army following the fall of Paris in 1940.

Towards the end of the Second World War, he was banished from the party by Hitler, after asking to assume overall leadership of Germany, believing the Red Army to be close to securing Berlin.

Hitler viewed the request as an act of treason and had him arrested, before he was later tried at the Nuremberg Trials.

He was found guilty and sentenced to death for his war crimes, but before his execution, he swallowed a cyanide capsule to kill himself.
New powers will allow Premier Dan Andrews to impose a state of emergency any time he likes - and Victorians face $90,000 fines or two years in jail if they protest.

Under the legislation, opposition MPs fear the premier could use public health orders to target individuals on age, gender, sexual orientation, political belief, or activity.

Health minister Martin Foley insisted the new legislation was designed to be transparent, but it was savaged by the opposition as 'an attack on democracy'.

Under the new bill, the premier will be able to declare a pandemic even if there are no cases, and can extend the state of emergency for three months at a time.

The sweeping new pandemic laws which were tabled in parliament on Tuesday free the premier from having to get doctors to sign off on public health orders.

New powers will allow Premier Dan Andrews (pictured) to impose a state of emergency any time he likes - and Victorians face $90,500 fines or two years in jail if they protest

The dramatic escalation of the premier's powers have come under fire from the state's Opposition who branded Mr Andrews 'drunk on power'. (Pictured, a protester seized by police in Melbourne on Saturday)

And the premier would be able to declare a state of emergency and bring in new restrictions on public life whether or not his chief health officer agrees.

The premier would also make the final call on implementing lockdowns, mask mandates and quarantine requirements.

Victorians could be fined up to $90,000 or jailed for two years if they breach health orders and knew - 'or should have known' - they were putting others at serious health risk, while companies face fines of up to $455,000.

Legal experts have warned the new bill does not have a sliding scale of crimes and treats all breaches with the same seriousness, raising concerns some could face a jail term for minor breaches like not wearing a mask.

But Mr Foley insisted every incident would be judged for its own seriousness.

'Each case would have to be determined on its merits by an appropriate judicial officer,' he said.

'It is a very high benchmark and its for the most egregious and deliberate offences that cause significant public harm.'

The dramatic escalation of the premier's powers came under fire from the state opposition, which branded Mr Andrews 'drunk on power'.

'Victorians are today witnessing the most extreme, dangerous and excessive laws ever brought before our state,' Liberal leader Matthew Guy said.

Under the rewritten fines law, individuals could be fined up to $90,500 if they break the rules, with companies facing fines of up to $452,500. (Pictured, Victoria Police on lockdown patrol)

'Daniel Andrews is attempting to sideline the Victorian chief health officer and grant himself unchecked power.

'Why would the government pass such extreme legislation if they didn't intend to lock us down again?

'This is the most extreme law of its kind anywhere in Australia.

'Placing so much power in the hands of one person, not the cabinet, not the parliament, but in the hands of the premier alone would be unprecedented.

'We see these laws as an incredible attack on democracy.'

Mr Andrews dismissed the criticism as 'political games' and insisted the powers were simply those that the opposition had been calling for.

'In many ways, in terms of scrutiny, oversight, transparency, they are the right set of arrangements,' he said.

'Theres been widespread consultation with experts in many different field.

'Its important that we learn from the experience, and that we have the best set of arrangements in place for this next phase [of] living with COVID, and for the normalisation of this virus.

'We need specific [pandemic] laws... that will protect us and keep us safe. That was our commitment, and thats what we have delivered.'

The new process is similar to the ones used in NSW and New Zealand, where the health minister is directly accountable to parliament.

Mr Andrews said Mr Guy repeatedly called for the public health orders to be made by elected officials rather than bureaucrats.

Dan Andrews dismissed the criticism 'political games' and insisted the powers were simply those that the Opposition had been calling for. (Pictured, lockdown protestors in Melbourne)

Health Minister Martin Foley (pictured) said the laws would allow him to issue health orders based on characteristics such as age, location, vaccination status and occupation

As recently as October 5, Mr Guy said the orders should be 'ticked off by a minister or the premier'.

'This is exactly what the opposition leader asked for. Now apparently it's not the right thing,' Mr Andrews said on Tuesday.

'There's some political game being played here and I just won't get involved in that.'

But Mr Guy denied the laws' similarities with the NSW system and begged Labor MPs and crossbenchers to block the bill in Parliament.

'We do not support handing over everything, our rights, our liberties, everything to one person to the premier of the state,' he said.

'I know we dont always agree. I know were on different political ideologies, but for goodness sake, stand up and oppose this legislation.

'Whether you are of the parliamentary left or right or centre or whatever, please oppose this legislation. To all MPs, please stand up for Victorians.

'There are sensible members of the Labor Party but to support legislation like this will be unprecedented.

'Please dont let your leader unleash this kind of will upon the start. It will be very difficult to wind back.'

THE PREMIER'S NEW POWERS Premier can declare a pandemic if he just fears there s the potential of one, and without the agreement of the Chief Health Officer. The initial pandemic declaration can only last four weeks at a time but can be extended for up to three months at a time. Premier must justify pandemic declaration to parliament and supply the CHOs advice. After declaring a pandemic the health minister 'can make any order the Minister believes is reasonably necessary to protect public health.' The new laws can detain people, ban gatherings, restrict movement, seal off areas, enforce PPE/masks, demand ID papers and keep records, test and examine people medically in affected areas, and enforce quarantine. If people refuse to be tested to medically examined, they can be detained longer. The powers of the pandemic orders are limited only by the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities They cant be used against individuals but they can be used against specific groups of people. The laws would then allow people to be targeted by geography, age, gender, race, sex or even sexuality. Advertisement

Health minister Foley said the laws would allow him to issue health orders based on characteristics such as age, location, vaccination status and occupation.

But he said it was 'conspiratorial nonsense' for the opposition to suggest rules could be enforced based on gender, sexual orientation or political belief.

Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton (pictured) insists he is not being 'sidelined' by the new laws

Chief health officer Brett Sutton also insisted he was not being 'sidelined' by the laws.

'There are expectations that the elected representatives in parliament, the minister in particular and the premier, should have accountability for the final form that public health directions take,' he said.

Professor Sutton will continue to provide health advice to the minister, which under the new laws must be tabled in parliament then made public.

An independent oversight committee will be established to review the public orders and their impact on human rights.

The laws also introduce safeguards around protecting contact tracing and QR code information, while an aggravated offence will be created for people or businesses who 'intentionally or recklessly breach' the rules.

Under the legislation, opposition MPs fear the premier could use public health orders to target individuals on age, gender, sexual orientation, political belief, or activity. (Pictured Victorian Liberals leader Matthew Guy)

The bill is expected to pass the lower house but in the upper house it will require the backing of three of the 11 crossbenchers.

Animal Justice MP Andy Meddick and Greens leader Samantha Ratnam have indicated they will support the bill, while Reason Party MP Fiona Patten wants to see the 'devil in the detail' before giving it a final 'thumbs up'.

If passed, pandemic-specific laws will replace the current state of emergency, which expires on December 15.

Victoria recorded 1510 new Covid-19 cases and four deaths on Tuesday, bringing the toll from the state's latest outbreak to 234.

There are 24,715 active cases in the state, including 817 in hospital, of which 147 are in intensive care and 88 on a ventilator.

About 90.8 per cent of Victorians aged over 16 have had one Covid-19 vaccine dose while almost 76 per cent are fully vaccinated, paving the way for restrictions to ease further at 6pm on Friday.
Army veteran Dennis Hutchings, 80, died last week after catching Covid-19 midway through his controversial trial for a fatal Troubles shooting almost 50 years ago

The funeral of Northern Ireland veteran Dennis Hutchings will take place on Armistice Day next month as a friend and fellow veteran says 'there could not be a more fitting date'.

The service will take place at St Andrew's Church, in Plymouth, on November 11 with a large turnout anticipated.

It is expected to highlight the failure by the Government to honour its pledge to stop Northern Ireland veterans being prosecuted over the Troubles, the Express has reported.

Andrew Barry, a friend of Mr Hutchings and a fellow Northern Ireland veteran, told the newspaper: 'There could not be a more fitting day for this funeral to be held.

'I believe Dennis should be given a funeral with full military honours.'

Former veterans minister Johnny Mercer, who supported Mr Hutchings though his prosecution said the day will celebrate Dennis' life.

Mr Mercer, who is expected to read the eulogy at the service, told MailOnline: 'I know his family are content that the first available Thursday for Dennis funeral is Armistice Day.

'The day will be about remembering Dennis, and all that he packed in to a wonderful life.

'Of course it is not lost on me that this is an important day for the nation too. I am surprised by successive Governments' apparent shame at the Northern Ireland generation of Veterans; even more so given the current Secretary of State for Defence served there himself.

'The family have heard nothing from any Minister or serving Military Officer since Dennis passed, which is regrettable.

Mr Hutchings' funeral is set to take place at St Andrew's Church in Plymouth on November 11

'I know that this is in stark contrast to the nation itself which is extremely proud of the heroic sacrifices of that generation in Northern Ireland, and I am sure you will see that displayed on the day.'

Dennis Hutchings, 80, was suffering from terminal kidney failure and heart disease when he flew to Belfast this month to face a judge-only trial, but said he was determined to clear his name over the alleged attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham in County Tyrone in 1974.

Last Monday, he was rushed to hospital in an ambulance after complaining that he was struggling to breathe. His condition deteriorated and he later died from coronavirus.

His case was one of two ongoing prosecutions of Northern Ireland veterans who served during the Troubles despite government plans announced in the summer to end all criminal and civil cases relating to deaths during the 30-year conflict.

The proposals are yet to be implemented and were met with fierce backlash on both sides of Northern Ireland's political divide.

Friends of Mr Hutchings have called for him to be buried with full military honours when his funeral takes place next month. Pictured: Wreaths laid down at the Cenotaph on Armistice Day

Philip Barden, Mr Hutchings's solicitor, said the rigour of forcing the army veteran to stand trial had 'killed him', The Telegraph reported.

Three days before the trial began he was struggling to breathe but told The Times that he wanted to clear his name. Asked if he was well enough to fly, he said: 'I don't know until I can get on the plane.'

The spectacle of a dying veteran sitting in a dock in Belfast wearing his service medals was already hugely embarrassing for Boris Johnson and his government, which had previously vowed to end repeated investigations into those who served in Northern Ireland.

However, Mr Hutchings's death sparked a further slew of criticism as to why the trial was allowed to take place at all.

Paul Young, a former Blues and Royals soldier now working with the Justice for Northern Ireland Veterans group, said: 'This has been an absolute disgrace. This frail, old, sick man hounded to his grave without being able to clear his name.

'He was absolutely determined to be in court. The justice system was insatiable and wanted his scalp but he died a lonely old man on his own in a Covid ward.'

Mr Hutchings caught Covid and was rushed to hospital in an ambulance after complaining he was struggling to breathe. Right: Hutchings in dress uniform at Knightsbridge Barracks, 1978

Hutchings greeted by a supporter as he arrives to the Belfast Crown court on October 4, 2021

Hutchings had been suffering from kidney disease and the court had been sitting only three days a week to enable him to undergo dialysis treatment between hearings.

He was charged with the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham in Co Tyrone in 1974.

The former member of the Life Guards regiment, from Cawsand in Cornwall, had denied a count of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

Mr Cunningham, 27, was shot dead as he ran away from an Army patrol across a field near Benburb. People who knew him said he had the mental age of a child and was known to have a deep fear of soldiers.

Critics of the plans to prosecute Northern Ireland veterans have cited the alleged hounding of soldiers who served in the province, while IRA terrorists were released early from prison or told they would not be prosecuted for Troubles-related offences following the signing of the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

Dennis Hutchings (pictured on the far right in this photo) in Germany, 1960

Dennis Hutchings: Army veteran pursued over historic Northern Ireland allegations... for which there was no proof The veteran (pictured when younger) was facing trial over the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham in 1974 Mr Hutchings was facing trial over the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham. He was shot running from a British Army patrol in Benburb, Co Tyrone, back in June 1974. Mr Hutchings, who required kidney dialysis twice a week and has heart problems, was in the British Army for 26 years. He served five tours of Northern Ireland when the Troubles were at their worst. The former corporal major was cleared twice over the events which took place in the mid-1970s. Despite no fresh evidence, no witnesses and no new forensic leads, the retired soldier was accused again of attempted murder. Advertisement

Great-grandfather Mr Hutchings was supported in court by his partner of 25 years, Kim, and son John, however the pair returned to England when his trial was postponed following his Covid diagnosis.

Mr Cunningham, a 27-year-old with learning difficulties, was shot dead during an Army operation near the village of Benburb on June 15, 1974. Mr Hutchings maintained he only fired aimed warning shots into the air.

The trial heard that prosecutors were unable to prove whether Mr Hutchings or another soldier, now dead, fired the fatal shots, as no forensic evidence was collected.

Mr Hutchings, who was in the Life Guards, had pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder. He also denied a count of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.

Reform UK party leader Richard Tice said the government should 'hang its head in shame' for 'hounding' Mr Hutchings during his final years.

Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) leader Jim Allister said: 'The needless dragging of an 80-year-old soldier, Dennis Hutchings, through the courts has had a very sad end with the passing of Mr Hutchings this evening.

'The strain on this man was cruel, with him requiring regular dialysis, while being brought to Belfast to face a trial of dubious provenance.

Ulster Unionist Party leader Doug Beattie called for a 'full and thorough' review into the decision-making of the Public Prosecution Service.

Meanwhile, Democratic Unionist Party leader Jeffrey Donaldson argued the trial was not in the public interest: 'He was an 80-year-old veteran, in ill-health on dialysis and there was a lack of compelling new evidence.

'There now stands serious questions around those who made the decision that Dennis should stand trial once more. He was honourable. He wanted to clear his name again but was dragged to a court and hounded until his death.'

At a hearing in March last year his legal team argued that the trial should be held in England because of concerns for his health and the threat of Covid. Mr Hutchings had appealed to the courts to bring the case forward because he had been warned he could have a heart attack at any moment.

Sitting in a crown court dock in Belfast this month, service medals pinned to his chest, Mr Hutchings somehow maintained his dignified stoicism

John Pat Cunningham, a 27-year-old with learning difficulties, was shot dead during an Army operation near the village of Benburb on June 15, 1974. Mr Hutchings maintained he only fired aimed warning shots into the air

He eventually flew to Belfast on October 3 for the trial, supported by former Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer.

Mr Mercer, himself a former soldier, urged the Ministry of Defence to fly the 80-year-old back to England so he could be near his family until the trial resumed.

He had said the MoD had a duty of care, adding: 'I cannot believe we are putting a dying man through this grotesque process.'

Defence barrister James Lewis QC had informed Belfast Crown Court of the development as proceedings in the non-jury trial were due to begin on Monday.

He told judge Mr Justice O'Hara that Hutchings' condition had been confirmed by a PCR test on Saturday.

'I regret Mr Hutchings is not well with regard, as one would expect, with his other comorbidities of renal failure and cardiac malfunction. And we are unable to presently take instructions as he is currently in isolation in his hotel room.'

The former member of the Life Guards regiment, from Cawsand in Cornwall, had already been cleared of any wrongdoing twice.

He was told he would not be prosecuted in the months after Mr Cunninghams death following an initial investigation, and again in 2011 when the case was reviewed.

However, it was reopened by the Legacy Investigation Branch of the Police Service of Northern Ireland in 2015.

Dennis was taken from his home in Cornwall to Northern Ireland for questioning.

His body was returned to home soil last week and transported to the picture postcard village on the Cornish coast where hed made his home.

His partner of 26 years Kim Devonshire, whom he loved dearly, is numb with grief. He really believed he was going to clear his name, she said. It breaks my heart that he never could.

Kim has asked Johnny to read the eulogy at the funeral, which will be held in a church in Plymouth.
A Jamaican cult leader whose followers killed two people in a 'human sacrifice' ritual has died in a police car crash while being taken to court to be charged.

Kevin Smith, 39, was killed alongside a police officer when the car taking him from Montego Bay to Kingston crashed on Monday.

Smith was arrested last week over an alleged human sacrifice ritual which left two people dead and three more injured and was waiting to be formally charged.

The cult leader allegedly oversaw congregants slash the throat of a woman, kill another person, and stab at least three more as part of the ritual at Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries on October 17.

It was not immediately clear what caused the crash but pictures showed an apparently lifeless Smith being stretchered away from the scene.

Two police officers involved in the crash were left in a critical condition while Smith and a third cop were killed.

Jamaican cult leader Kevin Smith, 39, whose followers killed two people in a 'human sacrifice' ritual has died in a police car crash while being taken to court to be charged

Smith was on his way to court in Kingston where he was set to be formally charged over the deaths of two people during an alleged human sacrifice ritual during a three-day convention on October 17.

The preacher had told the congregation there would be a 'great flood' and asked his followers to gather at the church and leave their phones wrapped in tin foil at home.

At the church the attendees dressed in white robes, were allegedly instructed to take part in a bloodletting ritual which involved people getting 'stabbed' and 'slashed', witnesses told local media.

'I was outside waiting to go in... when I saw the lady's throat being slashed,' a woman who did not want to be named told the Jamaica Observer.

'It was very intense. When I saw blood and the young lady fell, I said 'This is it for me,' and I walked away; I could not stay, I couldn't.'

Witnesses said it was 'normal' for the cult leader to tell congregants to leave their phones at home but at least one follower managed to smuggle their device into the church and used it to phone for help.

Police attended the scene and stormed the building, killing one person in an exchange of gunfire and taking 41 members of the congregation into custody.

A further three people were injured during the ritual and were taken to hospital.

Smith died in a car crash (pictured after the crash) while on his way to court in Kingston where he was set to be formally charged over the deaths of three people during an alleged human sacrifice ritual during a three-day convention on October 17

The victim who had her throat slashed was named locally as Tanecka Gardner, though this was not confirmed by police.

A source close to the investigation told The Sun: 'Then a man was ordered to strip naked and died in the same way to get the 'impure' blood out of his body.

'The ritual was said to have been overseen by Smith and an off-duty policewoman, who was a follower.'

Officers said there were more victims, including naked men and animals, were lined up for the ritual when they arrived.

At least 14 minors were found at the scene and taken into custody. There were later allegations of abuse against the boys, police said.

The source added: 'There is huge concern that influential people - including other local police officials - were involved and that this may have happened before and gone unreported.

'The entire congregation had been called to the church and around 50 had arrived wearing white when the killing started. Scores could have died.

'They had done two days of fasting on Friday and Saturday and the ritual began on Sunday, with people lining up to board "the Ark" after Smith warned a great flood was coming.

'Three more people are in hospital, one in a life-threatening condition, and more were stabbed.'

Smith was arrested last week and was being taken to court to be formally charged over an alleged human sacrifice ritual at his church (pictured) which left two people dead

Before the ritual began on Sunday, Smith posted on Facebook: 'The Ark is loading now! Leave immediately dressed in white.

'I am His Excellency Dr Kevin O Smith D.Min, Crown Bishop and End Time Nabi . . . Conqueror Lion of the Tribe of the Judah King of Kings and Lord of Lord Yesus Christos, the One True and living God.'

He also told followers he was leading them on a 'Noah's Ark' journey to salvation and that there would be 'no survivors' from the 'Roman Catholic sacrifice'.

Local media reported Smith swindled his congregation out of up to 7,000 a week which he then used to fund his lavish lifestyle - including designer clothes and jewellery, a 5000,000 hillside mansion with a private swimming pool, and a new BMW X6.

And his followers raised more than 22,000 to cover his legal fees after his arrest last week.
Babes in the Wood killer Russell Bishop was today urged to come clean and finally confess to his horrific crimes before he dies of brain cancer.

The 55-year-old has always denied murdering best friends Nicola Fellows and Karen Hadaway, both nine, in 1986 before dumping their bodies in woodland near their homes in Brighton.

Today both girls' families urged the paedophile, who is receiving palliative care in jail, to stop being a 'coward' and make a deathbed confession to the killings, which were one of the most notorious murder cases of the 1980s.

Babes in the Wood murderer Russell Bishop - who murdered best friends Nicola Fellows and Karen Hadaway in 1986 - is dying from brain cancer in his prison cell, aged 55

Karen's mother Michelle Hadaway (left) with Nicola's parents Barrie Fellows and Susan Eismann. The trio issued a joint statement urging Bishop to come clean

They told The Mirror: 'Russell Bishop has a chance to come clean before he dies unless he is a bigger coward than he has always seemed.

'And if he doesn't have the guts to confess his crimes and admit his guilt, he will be the loser, so our message to him is simple.

'We don't need your admission of what you did to our beautiful girls. Your refusal doesn't matter to us... but your admission would show you have finally had the courage to take responsibility for your despicable crimes.'

Nicola's parents Barrie Fellows and Susan Eismann and Karen's mother Michelle Hadaway issued the statement with the help of Nicola's cousin Lorna Heffron.

The child killer escaped justice for 32 years before he was jailed in 2018.

He was initially diagnosed with bowel cancer but it has now spread to his brain, The Sun on Sunday reported.

Bishop underwent surgery in a bid to stop the cancerous growth but it was unsuccessful.

He is said to be 'devastated' by the diagnosis and is having palliative care at HMP Frankland in County Durham where he is being held.

Bishop brutally killed Nicola Fellows and Karen Hadaway in 1986 when they were both just nine

Bishop pictured after his initial arrest for the 1986 Babes in the Wood murders

A source said: 'Bishop has weeks or, at most, months left and he is devastated by the diagnosis.

'His life is ebbing away and he is getting progressively weaker.

'Bishop has never shown much remorse for what he did so people feel justified in not feeling much sympathy towards him.'

Bishop lured the two best friends to a secluded den in Brighton's Wild Park where he sexually assaulted and strangled them.

The tragic discovery was made just half a mile from both of the girl's family homes.

Bishop was cleared of the Babes in the Wood murders in 1987 after a series of blunders by police, forensic experts and prosecutors.

Within three years he went on to kidnap, molest and throttle a seven-year-old girl at Devil's Dyke.

While serving life for that crime, Bishop was ordered to face a fresh trial for Nicola and Karen's murders in light of a DNA breakthrough.

The girls were found dead in this 'den' in undergrowth in Wild Park, Brighton

In 2017 Bishop's acquittals were quashed and the following year he was found guilty after a trial.

This summer, Bishop's girlfriend Jennifer Johnson, 55, was convicted for perverting the course of justice for lying in his first trial.

Johnson stunned police in the dock after suddenly claiming a blue jumper that linked him to the crime scene and killings was not his. She had previously told investigators it had been his garment.

Johnson had admitted lying, but had pleaded not guilty to perjury and perverting the course of justice, on the basis that she was acting under duress.

But the jury at Lewes Crown Court decided she was lying again and had been 'part of Team Bishop', desperate to get him cleared of murder.

Love letters sent from Johnson to him during the Devils Dyke case and shown to these jurors, had laid bare the lengths she would go to for him.

The case was also brought to recent public attention after the mother of murdered Karen Hadaway accused shamed journalist Martin Bashir of losing her daughter's clothes

They trilled: 'I'm not going to leave you so don't worry because I won't. cos I love you very much and I will write every day because you're special to me and you mean all the world too.

'Don't get worried when I'm not up with your mum as I can't get a babysitter all the time but I'm still thinking of you love.

'Can we get married quite soon and I will book the church OK? It is wonderful that you want to marry me. It's not prison talk is it love? I haven't got a lot to say so bye for now.'

The case was also brought to recent public attention after the mother of murdered Karen Hadaway accused journalist Martin Bashir of losing her daughter's clothes.

Michelle Hadaway says the former BBC religion editor obtained the clothes for DNA testing for BBC Two's Public Eye programme 30 years ago, but the investigation did not air and her calls to the broadcaster were ignored, she claimed.

Ms Hadaway previously said Mr Bashir approached her in 1991 and asked to have her daughter's clothing DNA tested, saying that science had advanced in the five years since the murders, but never returned the clothes.

She called him a 'dishonest rogue' and called for a criminal investigation after she claimed he delayed the killer's capture.
Australians won't see sky-rocketing Covid-19 cases like Britain in life after lockdown, a health expert who designed the roadmap out of lockdown predicts.

As residents flocked to pubs, shopping centres and cafes after lockdown ended in Victoria and NSW, some Australians fear the country could be faced with a similar situation to the UK.

Case numbers in Britain dramatically spiked after it lifted all Covid restrictions in July, controversially dubbed 'Freedom Day'.

Residents flocked to pubs, shopping centres and cafes after lockdown eased in Victoria and NSW this month

With immunity to the virus waning six months after vaccination, the country is considering reintroducing caps on gatherings and mask mandates.

But Doherty institute director Professor Sharon Lewin dampened concerns Australia could face a similar fate by highlighting a few key differences.

'The bulk of our population have been vaccinated in the last eight weeks, so they're freshly vaccinated [and] we've got high levels of immunity,' the she told ABC Melbourne Radio on Tuesday.

High levels of immunity from Vaccination uptake, mask wearing and public health restrictions on density limits and isolation are set help ease Australia's rise in Covid-19 infections post-lockdown

'Second of all, we still have some public health restrictions. There's still mask-wearing in different settings, and there's density limits, and there's an active [contact tracing], isolate, and quarantine system in place, which many other countries like the US and the UK and Israel don't have.'

She added Australia was in 'very good shape' to follow the roadmap set at both the state and federal level.

'I think you can relax and you should enjoy the new freedoms we have,' Professor Lewin said.

The Doherty Institute produced the report and modelling on which the federal government based its roadmap out of the pandemic that will open international borders next week.

NSW reported 282 cases and one death on Tuesday - in a figure that has slowly dropped since the state recorded 498 infections on its reopening day two weeks ago.

Premier Dominic Perrottet hinted more restrictions could be axed for NSW as the state hit an 85 per cent vaccination milestone this week.

'We will be looking at aspects of the roadmap at the COVID economic recovery committee this week,' he said.

The UK saw a dramatic spike in cases after lifting its lockdown in July along with public health restrictions

'The vaccination rates have provided an opportunity to revisit some areas and we will look at that.'

Across the state, 93.1 per cent of over 16s have had at least one jab of the Covid-19 vaccine.

Data compiled by NSW Health showed that 87.2 per cent of patients hospitalised for Covid-19 during the Delta outbreak were not on the immunisation register.

Just over 90 per cent of Covid-19 patients requiring intensive care were not vaccinated.

Those vaccinated made up only 5.6 per cent of hospitalisations and 3.1 per cent of those required admission to ICU.

NSW hit its 85 per cent double-vaccination coverage milestone this week

Out of 503 deaths from Covid-19 in the previous four months, only 11.7 per cent were fully vaccinated, with 12 per cent having just one dose.

Victoria recorded 1,510 new Covid-19 cases and four deaths on Tuesday as the state continues to revel in its newfound freedoms.

The figure was slightly up from Monday's recording of 1,461 cases, which which was the lowest number since October 6.

There are 817 people in hospital, 15 more than Monday, with the seven-day average at 789. Of those, 147 are in intensive care and 88 on a ventilator.
A Tory MP has accused an anti-vaxxer of making an 'implicit threat' by warning him 'our numbers are growing' in an email just days after the murder of Sir David Amess.

Richard Graham said Kelly Martin, from Gloucestershire, should 'get a grip' and treat him with respect following her letter.

The conspiracy theorist and pandemic denier turned on the Gloucester MP over his voting record on Covid legislation.

It is understood to have been sent just days after Sir David was stabbed to death during a constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, on October 15.

Mr Graham blasted Ms Martin over the 'implicit threat' and told her to 'get a grip' and treat him with the respect she would expect from him.



Richard Graham (pictured) said Kelly Martin, from Gloucestershire, should 'get a grip' and treat him with respect following her letter

The conspiracy theorist and pandemic denier (pictured) turned on the Gloucester MP over his voting record on Covid legislation

He wrote: 'You write only a few days after the murder of a colleague, and much national reflection about the tone of engagement between constituents and MPs on issues. Has this completely passed you by?

'Do you really think that the implicit threat of 'WE are not in the mood to comply and our numbers are growing locally' is remotely appropriate?'

He added: 'I urge you to get a grip and use the same courtesy you expect from your MP.'

Ms Martin, who bills herself on Twitter as an author, blogger and podcaster, revealed Mr Graham's letter on her social media.

She posted: 'I'm sharing this reply from my local MP, as evidence in case he dares says I'm threatening him.

'Yes I said we will not comply, yes I said we are growing in numbers. His 1st reply to my question about passports is in white. What shall I reply to this one? Get a grip? Fairies?'

She added: 'Local MP is finally replying to me personally. It's only started happening since Government, assassinated the MP against big pharma and jab passports.

'Anyone else noticing a sudden reply personally? He's rattled. And I'm going to lay it in the line, ignorance is no excuse.'

She later replied to Mr Graham's email, saying: 'I will not listen to anything you say anymore. You are not FOR the people.

'When the time comes you will be known as someone who took part in the biggest tyranny this country has ever seen.

'People are dying, people are not getting seen to, a young 13-year-old nearly died yesterday because she could not get through to a doctor or 111 in Gloucester, she is now in hospital with appendicitis.'

Ms Martin's Twitter feed is alight with Covid conspiracy theories and her bio contains the hashtag: '#novaccinepassportsanywhere.'

In one tweet, she shared a video of an interview with New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on vaccine passports.

She commented: 'I call #fascist and I raise you #dictator. And let's add #Apartheid into the mix and you have Jacinda Adhern, New Zealand has fallen'

In another post, she wrote: 'The pro-jabby/lockdown/mask brigade prefer to destroy country.'
The audio recordings of 911 calls made by the crew of Alec Baldwin's film Rust have revealed desperate attempts to save their colleague, and allegations of negligence.

Mamie Mitchell, the script supervisor of the film, made the call after Baldwin accidentally shot cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, and director Joel Souza, 48.

The group were filming the Western film in the desert outside Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Thursday when the tragedy happened.

In her call, Mitchell, a veteran script supervisor with credits dating back to 1974, points the finger at the assistant director, accusing him of negligence.

Mitchell calls 911 and tells the woman answering: 'We need an ambulance out at Bonanza Creek Ranch right now. We have had two people accidentally shot on a movie set accidentally.'

While she is on the phone, Mitchell is instructing another person to 'clear the road' to allow the ambulance easy access to the site.

Mitchell is then transferred to the Santa Fe fire and EMS, and, sounding panicked, urges a swift response.

'Bonanza Creek ranch. We have had two people accidentally shot on a movie set by a prop gun.

'We need help immediately. Bonanza Creek ranch. Come on.'

The 911 operators then asks Mitchell for her details.

Mitchell, who has worked on films including No Country For Old Men, Sicario and 3:10 to Yuma, can be heard saying: 'It sounds like somebody else is calling for ambulances.

'Everybody should be. We need some help.

'Our director and our camerawoman has been shot.'

She then asks someone on set: 'Are they going to take him to the road?'

The 911 operator asks: 'So, was it loaded with a real bullet or what?'

Mitchell replies: 'I don't, I cannot tell you that. We have two injuries from a movie gunshot.'

While the phone operator is inputting the details, Mitchell can be heard telling someone else: 'OK, this f****** AD that yelled at me at lunch asking about revisions, this motherf*****.

'Did you see him lean over my desk and yell at me? He's supposed to check the guns. He's responsible for what happened.'

According to a search warrant filed in a Santa Fe court, the gun was one of three that the film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez, had set on a cart outside the wooden structure where a scene was being acted.

An inconsolable Alec Baldwin is shown, left, on Thursday outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office after accidentally shooting and killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, right

Assistant director Dave Halls grabbed the gun from the cart and brought it inside to Baldwin, unaware that it was loaded with live rounds, a detective wrote in the search warrant application.

It is not known whether Mitchell was referring Halls in the audio.

It was unclear how many rounds were fired. Gutierrez removed a shell casing from the gun after the shooting, and she turned the weapon over to police when they arrived, the court records say.

On the call, the 911 operator tries to ask Mitchell how many people were injured and, confused, Mitchell replies: 'No, no, I'm a script supervisor.'

The operator asks again, and Mitchell says: 'Two that I know of. I was sitting there rehearsing and it went off and I ran out. We all went out there, but doubled over the camerawoman and the director.'

She tells another person: 'They are clearing the road, can you go back - back in the town, back in the Western camp.'

The operator asks if there is any serious bleeding, and Mitchell, flustered, hands the phone over to a man.

'Hello?' the man says.

'Hi, I have a protocol of questions I need to ask. If you could answer them as best you can,' the 911 operator says. 'Are they completely alert?'

The man replies: 'Yes, they are alert.'

The operator asks if the bleeding is controlled, and the man replies: 'Let's see if I'm allowed to get closer... No.'

It is unclear if he is saying that the bleeding is not controlled, or that he is not able to get closer.

'We've got one laying down,' he tells the operator, adding that they are near gate one and have a van ready to escort the ambulances quickly to the precise spot.

A devastated Baldwin is pictured bent over outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office on Thursday after speaking to investigators

A woman then calls back saying: 'Hi, I am calling back from Bonanza Creek Ranch. We actually need two ambulances not one.'

The operator replies: 'OK, so we're doing a call now for somebody else and we'll get two up to you.'

The woman, her voice showing the strain, replies: 'OK. And that's 10 to 15 minutes?'

'I don't know - we're getting them right now, to you now,' the operator replies.

'What? What?' the woman says, sounding panicked as she speaks to someone else.

'We have two ambulances heading your way.'

'What?' the woman says, then returns speaking to the operator: 'OK, thank you.'

Joel Souza, the director of Rust, is seen in November 2019. He was reportedly shot in the shoulder

The operator replies: 'You're welcome, bye.'

Mitchell later said she was standing next to Hutchins when she was shot.

'I ran out and called 911 and said 'Bring everybody, send everybody,' Mitchell told The Associated Press.

'This woman is gone at the beginning of her career. She was an extraordinary, rare, very rare woman.'

Mitchell said she and other crew members were attending a private memorial service Friday night in Santa Fe.

Baldwin described the killing as a 'tragic accident.'

'There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours. I'm fully cooperating with the police investigation,' Baldwin wrote on Twitter.

'My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna.'

No immediate charges were filed, and sheriff's spokesman Juan Rios said Baldwin was permitted to travel.

'He's a free man,' Rios said.
Russia has issued a chilling warning to the US and Britain after holding another set of war games and attacking a 'mock enemy' in the waters surrounding Crimea.

A Russian navy video shows missiles firing from the frigate Admiral Grigorovich and coastal anti-ship weapon systems against a 'mock enemy'.

Some 20 warships and auxiliary vessels were involved in the latest exercises in and close to the Black Sea peninsula, annexed by Russia from Ukraine seven years ago.

The footage shows both Bal and Utes missile systems deployed in major drills off naval port Sevastopol.

A Black Sea Fleet video shows missile firing from frigate Admiral Grigorovich and coastal anti-ship weapon systems against a 'mock enemy'

Some 20 warships and auxiliary vessels were involved in the latest exercises in and close to the Black Sea peninsula, annexed by Russia from Ukraine seven years ago

The crew of the frigate fired a Shtil anti-aircraft missile to strike down a Progress target missile mimicking an enemy attack, said reports.

It was hit at a distance of 25 miles, said the fleet.

Bal missile systems were deployed to destroy 'a naval group of a simulated enemy' both close and far from the coast, according to a TASS report citing naval sources.

This was the second week of war games in the area.

The video footage showed a number of different missile launchers firing rockets off out to sea during the war game

Close-up shots captured the missile launcher preparing to fire at the 'mock enemy'

Britain has led NATO forces in sending patrols - including US and Dutch warships - close to Crimea.

In June, Russia even opened fire when the Royal Navy destroyed HMS Defender sailed off Crimea in a deliberate act of support for Ukraine.

A FSB security service coast guard vessel fired shots in the direction of the UK warship, claiming the vessel had sailed into Russian territorial waters.

Moscow also claimed to have dropped bombs from an Su-24 warplane in a bid to push the British ship away from the Crimean coast.

In June, Russia even opened fire when the Royal Navy destroyed HMS Defender sailed off Crimea in a deliberate act of support for Ukraine

Russia released footage filmed from one of its Su-24M attack jets which showed HMS Defender sailing off Crimea - but not the moment it alleges shots were fired and four bombs were dropped

A major diplomatic incident followed in which Boris Johnson defended the show of support for Ukraine as 'entirely right'.

But there were Russian threats, including one from Mikhail Popov, deputy secretary of Russia's Security Council, to sink the next Royal Navy warship to sail in the same waters.

The British warship, a Type 45 Destroyer, exercised what London said were internationally recognised freedom of navigation rules in Ukrainian territorial waters.

Russia protested strongly against the British move at the time with a coastguard vessel firing warning shots and summoned the British ambassador for an explanation.

A FSB security service coast guard vessel fired shots in the direction of the UK warship (circled), claiming the vessel had sailed into Russian territorial waters

Following the incident involving the HMS Defender (pictured), there were Russian threats, including one from Mikhail Popov, deputy secretary of Russia's Security Council, to sink the next Royal Navy warship to sail in the same waters

Popov, in an interview in the state Rossiiyskaya Gazeta newspaper, said Britain's behaviour and its subsequent reaction to the incident was 'bewildering'.

In particular, he criticised suggestions from British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab, the foreign minister, that the incident could be repeated.

'Similar actions will be thwarted with the harshest methods in future by Russia regardless of the violator's state allegiance. We suggest our opponents think hard about whether it's worth organizing such provocations given the capabilities of Russia's armed forces,' said Popov.

'It's not the members of the British government who will be in the ships and vessels used for provocational ends,' he added.

'And it's in that context that I want to ask a question of the same Boris Johnson and Dominic Raab - what will they say to the families of the British sailors who will get hurt in the name of such 'great' ideas?'.

An MOD spokesperson said: 'HMS Defender was conducting innocent passage through Ukrainian territorial waters in accordance with international law.'
The grieving widow of a young multi-millionaire property tycoon today told of her heartbreak over his sudden death just eight weeks after the 'deeply in love' couple got married.

Vivek Chadha, 33, enjoyed close links to Conservative Party grandees and ran the multi-million-pound Nine Group, which has extensive hotel and property interests.

He mysteriously collapsed at a central London address in the early hours of Sunday morning, just hours after being spotted partying at the exclusive Annabel's night club on Saturday night.

Today his widow, former model Stuttee Chadha, 29, cried as she told MailOnline: 'I'm still in huge shock and devastated.

'I have not even been able to reply to the huge number of messages of sympathy that have been sent to me because at the moment, there's nothing I can say. There are no words for my pain.'

Mr Chadha married only two months ago in a lavish Sikh ceremony at the five-star JW Marriott Grosvenor House hotel, on London's Park Lane, that culminated in a week of festivities.

Stuttee told MailOnline that they had been together for three years.

Only two months ago, Vivek Chadha married Stuttee Chadha, 29, in a glamorous ceremony the five-star JW Marriott Grosvenor House hotel, on London's Park Lane that culminated in a week of festivities

Vivek Chadha, pictured with former Prime Minister Theresa May in 2019, enjoyed close links to Conservative Party grandees and ran the multi-million-pound Nine Group, which had extensive hotel and property interests

Friends revealed that the family has not been informed as to the exact reasons for Mr Chadha's death (pictured Mr Chadha with ex-PM David Cameron at 10 Downing Street)

She said: 'This is not a good time for me or Vivek's family. His death happened very suddenly, and we are not able to come to terms with it yet. It's not even started sinking in.'

There is likely to be a post-mortem to establish the causes of Mr Chadha's death, given his age and that he did not appear to have any known underlying health issues, but sources close to him indicated that it was from natural causes.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, his grieving widow sobbed: 'There are no words to describe what has happened. I'm in shock and still trying to make sense of it'

Mystery still surrounds where Mr Chadha exactly died but it has been revealed that it was not at his central London residence.

Stuttee added: 'I can't tell you where he died because it's a very personal matter.'

A source close to Mr Chadha revealed: 'He did not die at his central London address but was at another location when it happened. We don't know the full facts yet and are waiting to establish what exactly occurred.'

Accounts from Companies House up to December 31, 2019 reveal that his business, Nine Estates Limited, made 2.5million in revenue over the previous two years, with a 1.3million gross profit.

Among the hotels owned by Nine Group are the four-star London 02 Arena Hotel and four Holiday Inn franchises.

The firm also owns a pub - the Halt & Pull in Horley, Surrey - and recently struck a franchising deal with restaurant chain Pizza Hut.

Stuttee is being consoled by dozens of relatives and Mr Chadha's parents, Gursharan, 61 and Jasbir, 58 at their luxurious country home in Iver, Buckinghamshire.

Jasbir cried: 'We are in total shock and it's too early for us to say anything about Vivek and his achievements. There will come a time when we will pay tribute to him but at the moment, it's too early for us. We are in too much pain.'

Mr Chadha divided his time between the family home in Buckinghamshire and London.

In 2015, Mr Chadha donated 100,000 for a Mahatma Gandhi statute in Parliament Square, an initiative that was backed by William Hague and George Osborne

Tributes and messages of condolences poured in following the news of Mr Chadha's death

He was a regular visitor to Conservative Party functions, rubbing shoulders with the likes of former Prime Ministers David Cameron and Theresa May.

In 2015, he donated 100,000 for a Mahatma Gandhi statute in Parliament Square, an initiative that was backed by William Hague and George Osborne.

In 2017, Mr Chadha won the 'Rising Star' award at the Young Entrepreneur of the Year awards in recognition of his work.

After graduating with a degree in civil engineering in 2010, he founded the Nine Group with his father in 2012, helping to establish it as one of the largest private hotel companies in the UK.

It now owns 18 hotels across the country and employs more than 800 people as well as having commercial and residential investments.
The widow of a millionaire businessman is today embroiled in a court row after she was left out of his will.

Srendarjit Kaur Jassal, 57, is fighting for a slice of her late husband Fiaz Ali Shah's fortune after he died of a brain haemorrhage last year and left everything to his only son Sajad Ali Shah.

Mrs Jassal, who was branded 'a b***h' by one of his daughters, said she was entitled to support because she was living with Mr Shah, 64, as his wife before his death.

But his children, who are all from a previous relationship, claimed the couple split up in 2012 and their relationship was 'on again off again'.

The property developer's three daughters Sabrina, Sofia and Shabana were not named as beneficiaries in his 2018 last will. But the children said he set up a 'secret trust' to cover their needs.

Mrs Jassal is now suing, claiming she is entitled to 'reasonable provision' from her dead husband's estate.

Srendarjit Kaur Jassal (pictured), 57, is fighting her husband's four children after Fiaz Ali Shah, 64, died of a brain haemorrhage last year and left everything to his only son Sajad Ali Shah

Shabana Shah denied viewing her stepmother 'an interloper' - but admitted writing 'OMG she is a b***h' in a text to one of her sisters.

Mrs Jassal however insists her marriage was strong to the end and says she has a loving Valentine's text from the year her husband died to prove it.

London's High court heard that Mr Shah died in April 2020 as the UK lurched into lockdown, leaving behind a property portfolio and 1.1 million in the bank.

His last will from 2018 bequeathed all his wealth to his son, leaving his cash-strapped widow without a penny.

Mrs Jassall now claims by law she has the right to 'reasonable provision' from Mr Shah's estate, under the terms of the 1975 Inheritance Act, because they lived together as husband and wife in the years leading up to his death.

Her barrister, Andrew Morrell, told the court Mr Shah supported her and put a roof over her head when they were together.

Mrs Jassal insisted she has always lived in the same house as Mr Shah in Slough and that they enjoyed a loving relationship.

The property developer's three daughters Sabrina (right), Sofia (left) and Shabana (second left, with brother Sajad Ali Shah) were not named as beneficiaries in his 2018 last will. But the children said he set up a 'secret trust' to cover their needs

They were together for nearly 20 years and married under Islamic law, claimed Mr Morrell. But giving evidence, stepdaughter Shabana told the judge: 'They were together until 2012, but after that they broke up.'

Shabana said her father's relationship with Ms Jassall was 'not serious.'

She told the court: 'I didn't like some of her behaviour and the way she treated him.'

'I did say that,' she told the court when explaining a text calling her stepmother a b***h. She said she was upset because Mrs Jassal was denying access to her father while he was unwell.

'I was supposed to see him in hospital but I was told that I wasn't allowed to,' she said.

Mr Shah's son Sajad backed his sister's version of events, insisting his father and stepmother were estranged. He said: 'She got kicked out in 2012.'

'They broke up in 2012. It had been boiling over for a long time and I would say they were having big problems from about 2009,' he told the judge, Deputy Master Matthew Marsh.

Oliver Ingham, for the siblings, told the judge: 'She was not living with Mr Shah in the same household for the two years immediately prior to his death at all - let alone as "husband and wife".'

Their relationship was 'complicated and variable', said Mr Ingham, labelling it 'on again off again'.

But Mrs Jassal's barrister highlighted a slew of affectionate and domestic texts between her and Mr Shah, saying they proved the length and stability of their relationship.

The texts numbered in the hundreds and were scattered across the five years leading up to Mr Shah's death - some of them loving and some revealing the 'mundane' details of settled domestic life.

'There are times when the claimant complains that the deceased was not doing the washing up, complaining of him eating McDonalds or pre-packed pickles, or just the deceased asking the claimant to leave the cabbage cooking as he is home in 15 minutes.

'But there are many, many expressions of love and affection. For example, on their last Valentine's day, the deceased texted: "But I still love you, no one can love you like me".'

Mrs Jassal was supported by Mr Shah for nearly 20 years, has 'virtually no financial resources' and cannot work due to medical complaints, he added.

Given her plight, she now deserves a 'very significant payment from the estate,' said her barrister.

Mr Morrell also challenged the existence of any 'secret trust' designed to benefit all Mr Shah's offspring.

The siblings' barrister said the secret trust had been discussed between Mr Shah and his children, and was in line with Islamic practice that his son would inherit his father's fortune but then distribute it fairly among his family.

In the court battle over fair provision, Mrs Jassal is suing Sajad and Shabana Shah, who are both executors of their father's will.

The judge has now reserved his ruling in the case to be given at a later date.
Nicola Sturgeon is under growing pressure over Glasgow's preparations for the COP26 climate change summit after her critics warned she risks embarrassing the UK on the world stage.

The UN summit will take place from October 31 to November 12 as Boris Johnson welcomes world leaders to the city to hammer out a plan to reduce harmful emissions.

But there are fears the crunch gathering could be overshadowed by a variety of problems, with the SNP being told to 'fix the issues in their own back yard'.

Train staff are set to go on strike during the summit in a move which could cause massive disruption for travelling delegates.

Council bosses have been under fire over the cleanliness of the city as they denied that bins are overflowing.



Ms Sturgeon has been slammed by opposition politicians for lecturing world leaders on how to achieve a cleaner planet after photographs showed streets in her own Glasgow constituency littered with rubbish.

Meanwhile, the summit has prompted hotel prices to surge to unprecedented levels amid reports that delegates unable to find accommodation will stay in neighbouring towns and cities, making them reliant on potentially patchy train services.

The summit is also taking place against a backdrop of elevated coronavirus case numbers.

Nicola Sturgeon is under growing pressure over Glasgow's preparations for the COP26 climate change summit

Ms Sturgeon has been slammed by opposition politicians for lecturing world leaders on how to achieve a cleaner planet after photographs showed streets in her own Glasgow constituency littered with rubbish

Photographs taken yesterday showed a variety of litter on the streets of the Govanhill area of Glasgow

Opposition politicians called the situation an 'international embarrassment' at a time when the focus of the world's media is on the city

Ms Sturgeon gave a speech yesterday in which she lectured world leaders on how they should protect the environment.

However, at the very same time that the First Minister was urging politicians to take 'credible actions' to achieve net zero emissions and a cleaner planet, photographs were taken of streets in her own constituency 'overflowing with rubbish'.

Less than two miles from the main arena where the COP26 summit begins on Sunday, piles of rubbish, fly-tipped items and overflowing bins were clear for all to see in the Govanhill area of Glasgow Southside, which Ms Sturgeon represents at the Scottish Parliament.

Sodden mattresses, dumped couches and pile after pile of bursting black bin bags remained uncollected on pavements and at street corners.

Meanwhile, addressing students at Strathclyde University in the city, the SNP leader spoke of encouraging 'national governments to match the ambition of cities, regions and state governments'.

Opposition politicians called the situation an 'international embarrassment' at a time when the focus of the world's media is on the city.

Conservative MSP for the Glasgow region Dr Sandesh Gulhane said: 'Nicola Sturgeon said Scotland should use the "power of our example" to lead the fight against climate change  yet what kind of example is it that the streets of our First Minister's own constituency are overflowing with rubbish?

'The mess in Glasgow's streets is on track to become an international embarrassment.

'Our city has got into this state due to years of SNP incompetence and neglect, at both the Government and council level.

'Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP must urgently fix the issues in their own back yard if they want to have any credibility discussing environmental issues on the international stage.'

Concern has been growing for months over fly-tipping and litter in Glasgow, which critics say has been fuelled by charges for the bulk uplift of domestic waste.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: 'Credibility begins at home  with bins collected, trains running and Glasgow flourishing.

'Instead, rubbish is lining the streets in the First Minister's own back yard, while her government misses their own climate targets. If Nicola Sturgeon is serious about credible action, she should take some.'

Glasgow's council leader yesterday denied bins are overflowing and rubbish collectors have needed hospital treatment for rat attacks, as she insisted the city is ready to host COP26.

Susan Aitken said Glasgow is ready 'with caveats' for the UN conference and none of the problems the city faces is 'enough to cause panic'.

Concern has been growing for months over fly-tipping and litter in Glasgow, which critics say has been fuelled by charges for the bulk uplift of domestic waste

Sodden mattresses, dumped couches and pile after pile of bursting black bin bags remained uncollected on pavements and at street corners

The UN COP26 summit will take place in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12. The Hydro, one of the venues being used for the summit, is pictured yesterday

Giving evidence to Westminster's Scottish Affairs Committee about preparations for COP26, Ms Aitken argued that other cities are dirtier than Glasgow and she is 'not embarrassed' about its condition.

She said it is 'entirely gratuitous' to suggest the city is in a state of disrepair but that cleansing staff are 'working round the clock' ahead of the climate summit.

The Glasgow City Council leader said: 'The COP26 co-ordinating board within the council met last week and the verdict was that we are ready, with caveats.

'I would say the caveats are mainly technical, some of them have already been resolved or are being ticked off. None of them were massive, none of them were enough to cause panic.'

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross asked whether the 'technical issues were that the bins are overflowing, there's rats in the streets and some of your employees have been taken to hospital while collecting that rubbish?'

Ms Aitken denied that was the case, although she later admitted that there have been 'small incidents' where rubbish collectors had been taken to hospital after 'very minor contact with a rat'.

The rows over rubbish came amid fears that train worker strikes could cause significant disruption during the summit.

There are reports that thousands of delegates were unable to find accommodation in Glasgow and intend to travel by train from neighbouring cities.

Time magazine reported that as early as January this year hotels were hiking prices for November to 500 per cent of normal levels.

Scotland's transport minister Graeme Dey said this morning the 'signs are not optimistic' in preventing ScotRail staff from going on strike during COP26.

The country is just days away from potential industrial action on Scotland's railways due to an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions.

Council bosses have insisted that Glasgow is ready to welcome world leaders for the gathering

The RMT rail union, which represents ScotRail workers who are planning to strike, said the latest pay offer was 'pitiful.'

Speaking about the potential strikes on BBC's Good Morning Scotland programme, Mr Dey said: 'This is a situation that we have tried extremely hard to avoid.

'We find ourselves in a perplexing and deeply disappointing situation.'

The RMT said 'a gun is being pointed at its head' after a Wednesday deadline was set for accepting a recent pay offer.

Mr Dey said with the country less than a week away from the climate change summit, the Scottish Government has had to focus on making alternate travel plans if the offer is not accepted by tomorrow.

Rail services in Scotland have been crippled for months by strike action, with few trains running on Sundays. Three other unions have since settled their disputes with ScotRail.

The summit will take place as Scotland continues to record elevated coronavirus case numbers.

The latest figures published yesterday showed a further 2,240 coronavirus cases in the previous 24 hour period.

The daily test positivity rate was 10.3 per cent, up from 9.9 per cent the previous day.

Coronavirus case numbers in Scotland remain at elevated levels with 2,240 new cases confirmed yesterday

There were 902 people in hospital in Scotland on Sunday with recently confirmed Covid-19, up three in 24 hours, with 57 in intensive care, down one.

Asked yesterday about the state of Glasgow as it prepares to host COP26, Ms Sturgeon said: 'I think there are challenges in Glasgow and challenges in cities across Scotland, the UK, the world  some of them related to Covid, some of them more fundamental than that.

'I'm not going to stand here and say they don't exist in Glasgow. I think Glasgow is ready for COP26.

'Glasgow  as it has been with big events in past years  will be an excellent host for COP26, and that's important.

'But  as all countries do  we have challenges in our public services and how we make sure they're delivering in the post-Covid era.'
Cleo Smith's mother has shared a heartbreaking video showing her missing girl laughing and playing before she was abducted.

Ellie Smith posted a 20-second TikTok montage of the smiling blonde-haired girl along with missing persons posters reminding Australians of the $1 milliion reward for information that can lead to her finding her.

The four-year-old, dressed in a pink leotard, was shown dancing like a ballerina in the living room of her home, enjoying an ice cream, and walking to pre-school with her stepfather Jake Gliddon by her side.

Little Cleo was also filmed playing with a xylophone, holding a cupcake with a sparkler inside, and building sandcastles on the beach.

She was last seen in the early hours of October 16, sleeping alongside her parents and their younger child Isla in their family tent at the Blowholes camping site, near Carnarvon in Western Australia.

The mother of Cleo Smith (pictured dancing in her living room) has shared a heartbreaking video showing her missing girl laughing and playing before she was abducted

Ellie Smith posted a 20-second TikTok montage of the smiling blonde-haired girl (pictured playing a xylophone) along with missing persons posters reminding Australians of the $1milliion reward for information that can lead to her whereabouts

Police initially believed Cleo simply wandered off at the remote campsite, but investigators are now convinced she was snatched in the dead of night.

Although detectives have no strong leads about who the child predator might be, there was a major breakthrough in the case on Tuesday.

Police seized CCTV of a car driving down a highway in the middle of the night near the campground where Cleo Smith was last seen.

Detectives are now looking into footage taken from a home on the North West Coastal Highway, which shows a sedan travelling down the road at about 3am.

Two people on their way to work earlier told police they saw a car turning south off Blowholes Road about 3am on the day Cleo vanished.

She was last seen in the early hours of October 16, sleeping alongside her parents and their younger child Isla in their family tent at the Blowholes camping site, near Carnarvon in Western Australia

Detectives are now looking into footage taken from a home on the North West Coastal Highway, near the Blowholes campsite, which reportedly shows a sedan travelling down the road at about 3am

Cleo Smith in her pink pyjamas was sleeping in a tent alongside her mother, stepfather and baby sister Isla in their first camping trip together. In the morning she was gone

Police are now working to identify the driver and registration plates to determine whether or not the car seen in the footage is the same as the one in the reports, 7 News reported.

'We want the person or persons who were in that vehicle to come forward and contact police,' Detective Superintendent Rod Wilde earlier told reporters.

'We want to know who they were and what they were doing.

'The time is not exact but we believe it to have been between 3am and 3.30am.'

Superintendent Wilde said the evidence was 'credible' and the witnesses only came forward after learning of the possible abduction of the child, having not thought their sighting of the car was significant at the time.

Cleo's is seen with her mother devastated mother Ellie Smith

A $1million reward is now on offer for anyone who has information into the disappearance of missing Cleo with fears she may have been abducted

Emergency crews scoured the area to locate the missing four-year-old who hasn't been seen in over a week

The witnesses were travelling north on the North West Coastal Highway on their way to work when they spotted the mysterious vehicle leaving the camping ground.

Unfortunately, they were unable to give a description of the car or how many people were inside as it was too dark.

Other witnesses said they heard the sound of screeching tyres leaving the campsite at around the same time.

The official search into the area Cleo was last seen in has been called off and a $1 million reward is on offer for anyone who has information into the disappearance of the four-year-old that leads to her being found.

Deputy police commissioner Col Blanch earlier urged those living in the area to check places that may be 'abandoned' on their properties.

Cleo was last seen by her mother Ellie Smith and step-dad Jake Gliddon at 1.30am on Saturday October 16 when she asked for a sip of water

The four-year-old disappeared in the early hours of October 16 and was last seen in the tent she was sharing with her family at the Blowholes camping site, near Carnarvon in Western Australia

When her parents woke in the morning at about 6.30am, Cleo (pictured holding a cupcake with a sparkler inside) along with her grey and red sleeping bag had vanished

'We would ask anyone to check their sheds, their cars, their old cars, locations that might be abandoned, that's something that I would encourage,' he said.

She was last seen by her mother Ellie Smith and step-dad Jake Gliddon at 1.30am on Saturday when she asked for a sip of water.

When her parents woke in the morning at about 6.30am, Cleo along with her grey and red sleeping bag had vanished.

The zipper on the side of the tent was also nearly completely open when her family woke in the morning.

Cleo devastated mother burst into tears during a TV interview on Monday, as she urged anyone with information on the missing girl to call police because 'we want our daughter back and she wants us'.

Cleo Smith's devastated mother Ellie burst into tears as she pleaded for the safe return of her missing four-year old daughter during an emotional TV interview

Wiping away tears, Ellie Smith shared a message for Cleo when she spoke to Channel Seven's Flashpoint program - 10 days after the four-year-old vanished.

'I love you,' the distraught mother said with Cleo's stepfather Jake Gliddon by her side. 'We miss you and we want you home.'

She also had a message for Cleo's abductor: 'Just give her back to us.'

'Every day is harder, but we're hoping by being here (doing the interview), it will help to find her,' Ms Smith said.

'Whoever's watching, if the person who's watching this has Cleo, we want her home. We want her to be home with our baby. We want her back in our arms.'

Anyone within a 1000km radius of the Blowholes campsite has been asked to hand in any security or dashcam footage to police.

Anyone with other information is urged to call police on 131 444.
The Queen's platinum jubilee is set to be dogged by her son Palace Andrew's court drama, in what a royal expert has described as 'grim news' for Buckingham Palace.

Documents lodged in New York show the civil case of rape and sexual assault being brought against him by Jeffrey Epstein's victim is to go ahead as quickly as possible.

Judge Lewis Kaplan has ruled, with the agreement of both parties, that all disclosures and depositions should be completed before July next year.

This means that key moments in the case will be heard in the run-up to the official national celebrations to mark the Queen's 70 years on the throne.

And royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said that there will now be a 'cloud' over the festivities, caused by Andrew's 'atrociously ill-advised friendship with Epstein'.

Queen Elizabeth II with her son Prince Andrew on the Buckingham Palace balcony in June 2019

Prince Andrew, Virginia Roberts, then 17, and Ghislaine Maxwell pictured in London in 2001

The commemorations will last throughout the year and will see senior royals  except Andrew  travel around the country and overseas. The events will culminate in a four-day bank holiday over the first weekend of June.

And Mr Fitzwilliams told MailOnline today: 'The news that the court case brought by Virginia Roberts Giuffre against Prince Andrew will be heard in the run-up to the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations is grim news for the Palace.

Queen hasn't walked dogs for nearly a week The Queen has not been able to enjoy her daily walk with her dogs for almost a week after being told to rest by doctors. Sources say the monarch has been taking their orders to rest seriously after she was kept in hospital overnight on Wednesday for 'preliminary investigations'. The Queen and her dogs at Windsor in 1994 The Queen, 95, has two corgi puppies and dorgi Candy, a cross between a corgi and a dachshund. One of the highlights of her day is being driven to walk them near Frogmore on her Windsor estate, where Harry and Meghan once lived. Family and friends believe these daily excursions are a 'tonic' and have helped keep the Queen so healthy in her nineties. But instead the dogs have been walked by staff since her hospital stay. Buckingham Palace said yesterday that the Queen was still in good spirits and undertaking some 'light duties' while resting. It is still hoped she will be able to lead the Royal Family at the Cop26 UN climate change summit in Glasgow next week, either in person or via video link. A final decision will be made towards the end of this week. Advertisement

'It means that speculation which is certain to be sensational is likely to make headline news over the coming months.

'It is unclear if the disclosure of the 2009 settlement agreement between the deceased paedophile Epstein and Virginia Roberts, to which his lawyers have recently been given access, will be helpful to his case.

'If Prince Andrew were required to answer questions put to him by her lawyers, he could exercise his right to be silent, or he could claim the request should be set aside as he has no evidence which is material to offer.'

The latest court document shows that Judge Kaplan intends to draw a line under any amendments to the New York proceedings by December 15.

All disclosures relating to expert witnesses should be made by June 13 with the disclosure process complete a month later. One US legal expert described the scheduling order as 'brisk'.

Mr Fitzwilliams added that Andrew has 'strongly denied the charges and undoubtedly believes that if he can discredit his accuser, some of whose statements have appeared contradictory, this would be a route back for him to salvage his reputation'.

He continued: 'Obviously if he were attempt to settle, it would be seen as an admission of guilt.

'At this stage it is unclear what precisely what will happen in the coming months but the publicity accompanying it will undoubtedly be deeply damaging to the royal family.

'The Queen, who is reportedly funding his legal bills, will be celebrating an anniversary unique in this country's history, but there will be a cloud caused by his atrociously ill-advised friendship with Epstein.

'However, a very serious block to any rehabilitation is the court of public opinion in which his support is, according to polls, almost non-existent.

'There has been no indication that he has cooperated with the FBI who are trying to trace Epstein's accomplices, as he promised to do.'

Andrew, who was a close friend of financier and convicted paedophile Epstein, has always denied Virginia Giuffre's claims that she was trafficked by her abuser to have sex with him on three occasions when she was 17.

Andrew has always denied claims by Virginia Giuffre (left) that she was trafficked by her abuser Jeffrey Epstein (right) to have sex with him on three occasions when she was 17

The Queen at a reception for the Global Investment Conference at Windsor Castle last Tuesday

Although the prince and his legal team were shocked when she suddenly lodged a civil claim against him in April, they now intend to use it to try to prove his innocence once and for all.

Virginia Giuffre is pictured after a hearing in the Jeffrey Epstein case in New York in 2019

They have until this Friday to respond to the claims in her lawsuit, with a further hearing at a court in Manhattan due to be held next week. Epstein killed himself while in custody.

Mr Fitzwilliams continued: 'His (Andrew's) interview with Emily Maitlis is one of the greatest public relations disasters in royal history.

'There appears to be no way back for him, which is why he may feel he has little to lose in conducting a more aggressive defence.

'The damage to the monarchy, however, may be considerable during a period which ought to be one of rejoicing.'

In the Newsnight interview with the BBC's Emily Maitlis in November 2019, Andrew denied claims that he slept with Ms Giuffre on three separate occasions and said: 'I can absolutely categorically tell you it never happened.

'I have no recollection of ever meeting this lady, none whatsoever.'

The duke also said he has no memory of a well-known photograph of him with his arm around Ms Giuffre's waist and has questioned whether it was his own hand in the image.

The fallout from the interview saw the royal criticised for showing a lack of empathy towards Epstein's victims and a lack of remorse over his friendship with disgraced financier.

Earlier this month the Metropolitan Police said it was taking no action over Ms Giuffre's claims. Andrew has not been charged with any crime.
Ministers are under pressure over planned changes to the justice system that could see people plead guilty and be sentenced without setting foot in a court.

Under proposals in the Judicial Review and Courts Bill, which is being debated today, people facing minor offences will be allowed to enter a plea online and have their punishment decided by a computer.

It would initially apply to minor cases like travel fare dodging, but could be then extended to other cases like careless driving and failing to send a child to school, which carry higher fines.

Ministers say the change will speed up the court system, which was facing a massive backlog even before Covid, and save 5million a year.

But critics warned that it could lead to miscarriages of justice under a 'trigger happy' system where defendants do not get access to legal advice.

Penelope Gibbs, founder and director of Transform Justice, told the Telegraph: 'Over-confident, computer-savvy people will be able to incriminate themselves within seconds of getting online, while others will be convicted and fined without ever pleading guilty or not guilty. It's a recipe for reducing confidence in the criminal justice system'.

Under proposals in the Judicial Review and Courts Bill, which is being debated today, people facing minor offences allowed to enter a plea online and have their punishment decided by a computer.

The plans, laid by Justice Secretary Dominic Raab, were also attacked by former minister David Davis today for clamping down on the right of judicial review.

The Tory MP accused ministers of stifling the process after a slew of Government defeats during Brexit.

In a report last month, Transform Justice pointed out that the online plans were first raised in 2016, and attracted criticism. The new plan 'reintroduces almost word for word the same digital court reforms'.

'Some of the proposals have never been subject to public consultation and none are based on research evidence or successful piloting,' it said.

'Introducing online pleas will drive a reduction in the proportion of defendants with legal representation, worsening outcomes for unrepresented defendants who will not understand the implications of indicating a plea or pleading online.

'Efficiencies in the court process will be reduced by online pleas because it removes the chance to identify wrong charges before they get to court and makes it more difficult for defence lawyers to obtain timely disclosure of evidence.

'Online pleas compromise open justice principles by removing the opportunity for the plea hearing to be witnessed/observed.

'Children are prone to pleading guilty when innocent or when they have a viable defence, making online plea processes particularly inappropriate for children.'

The plans, laid by Justice Secretary Dominic Raab, were also attacked by former minister David Davis today for clamping down on the right of judicial review.

The Tory MP accused ministers of stifling the process after a slew of Government defeats during Brexit.

'These are the big, spectacular defeats the government has recently faced. But on a daily basis, judicial reviews against various arms of the government are heard in courts up and down the UK. And often the state finds itself on the losing side of the argument,' he wrote in the Guardian.

'The government plans to restrict the use of judicial review in an obvious attempt to avoid accountability.

'Such attempts to consolidate power are profoundly un-Conservative and forget that, in a society governed by the rule of law, the government does not always get its way.'
Joe Biden will participate in a meeting with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday after his predecessor, Donald Trump, skipped the event three years in a row.

The president will join Southeast Asian leaders for the virtual ASEAN-U.S. summit from the White House for the first time in four years and is expected to announce more than $100 million in spending for the association.

The new funding will include money for several initiatives and programs, including economic recovery caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

This meeting is seen as key to countering an increasingly assertive China  especially in recent years.

Donald Trump attended an ASEAN-U.S. meeting in Manila in 2017, during which time U.S. relations with China deteriorated, stooping to their worst levels in decades.

Following the ASEAN summit, Biden will participate on Wednesday in the broader East Asia Summit, which brings together ASEAN and other nations in the Indo-Pacific region, a senior U.S. administration official said.

'The President's participation in these summits demonstrates our commitment to the region and to a free-and-open Indo-Pacific and to supporting the security and prosperity of our partners,' the official said.

President Joe Biden will attend the Association of Southeast Asian Nations virtual summit on Tuesday, which was skipped every year by Donald Trump after he attended in 2017

On Thursday, Biden will then depart for a Europe trip, where he will travel to Rome for the G20 Summit and the United Kingdom for the United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26.

Analysts say Biden's meeting with the ASEAN, a 10-nation bloc, reflects his administration's efforts to engage allies and partners in a collective effort to push back against China.

Officials have, however, avoided specific mention of China in the run-up to the meetings as they work to set up a virtual summit between Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping later this year.

The White House said Biden will announce plans to provide up to $102 million to expand the U.S. strategic partnership with ASEAN, which is currently chaired by Brunei. The funding is meant to go towards health, climate, economic and education programs.

Biden is also expected to assure ASEAN that a recent U.S. focus on engagement with India, Japan and Australia in the so-called Quad grouping and a deal to supply Australia with nuclear-powered submarines are not intended to supplant ASEAN's central regional role.

Edgard Kagan, senior director for East Asia at the White House National Security Council, stressed last week that Washington does not see the Quad as 'an Asian NATO' and that it was not intended to compete with ASEAN.

He said Washington had an interest in working with ASEAN to ensure supply-chain resilience, on climate, and to address 'common challenges on maritime issues' - an apparent reference to China's broad claims in the disputed South China Sea.

While planning to provide a modest sum to promote trade with ASEAN, Biden has given no sign of any plan to return to a regional trade framework Trump withdrew from in 2017.

The virtual summit includes 10 Asian nations and is being held virtually on Tuesday. Brunei currently chairs the ASEAN

Analysts said ASEAN leaders would be anxious to hear how Washington plans to engage further on trade, investment and infrastructure and of any U.S. plans to step up provision of COVID-19 vaccines to the region, which has been hard hit by the pandemic.

An Asian diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the lack of an economic element in U.S. regional engagement was a major gap at a time when countries were expanding economic ties with China.

Kagan said it was critical for the credibility of the Quad that it deliver on a pledge it made in March to supply a billion COVID-19 vaccines to Southeast Asia by the end of 2022.

That plan stalled after India, the world's largest vaccine producer, banned exports in April amid a massive domestic COVID outbreak.

The ASEAN meetings will take place without Myanmar military leader Min Aung Hlaing, who overthrew a civilian government on February 1  a rare exclusion for a grouping usually known for non-interference.

Kagan called ASEAN's move to exclude the Myanmar leader a significant step but said more needed to be done to address the challenges that country is facing.
A worker shortage of baggage handlers and airport ground staff could derail plans for travellers hoping to jet off overseas as Covid lockdown restrictions tumble.

Vaccinated Australians are gearing up for the return of international travel in November as national immunisation rates close in on 80 per cent.

But an exodus of airport staff during the Covid lockdowns could have the airline industry facing a new crisis when flights start to return to normal.

About a third of the nation's 16,000 airport ground crew have quit their jobs after they were stood down for months on end during the pandemic.

They handle the key jobs behind the scenes at airports, including cleaning, security, driving passenger buses across tarmacs, in-flight catering, and baggage and cargo handling.

A ground crew crisis could threaten the dream holiday plans of thousands of Australians. (Pictured, a woman running through the waves in the sea)

A worker shortage of baggage handlers and airport ground staff (pictured) could derail plans for travellers hoping to jet off overseas as Covid lockdown restrictions tumble

Now the Australian Aviation Ground Handler Industry Alliance has warned hundreds of flights may have to be cancelled as airports struggle to replace the workforce.

Airport staff were not included in the federal government's airline support package that supported airline crew but not outsourced ground crew.

But the AAGHI warns that without them, the planes simply won't fly.

When JobKeeper came to an end in March, thousands are said to have quit the aviation industry in search of more secure work elsewhere.

Double-jabbed Australians are gearing up for the return of international travel in November as national vaccination rates close in on 80 per cent. (Pictured, travellers board a Qantas flight)

AAGHIA Chair Glenn Rutherford has warned it will be months before the travel industry recovers and gets back up to full strength to cope with demand.

'It will take at least six months to recruit more workers when state borders reopen, train them up to government standards and have them accredited,' he told Aviation Australia

'That means we are likely to see many flights grounded in November, December, January and February owing to a nationwide shortage of professional aviation ground operations staff.'

The alliance has drawn up a list of 51 Australian airports likely to be hit by the staff shortages after ground work was contracted out by airlines to third-party firms.

They said 80 per cent of all ground crew work is now handled by third parties and subcontractors, with just 20 per cent still employed by airlines themselves.

An exodus of airport staff during the Covid lockdowns could leave the airline industry facing a new crisis when flights start to return to normal. (Pictured, travellers awaiting their baggage at Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport)

Around a third of the nation's 16,000 airport ground crew are estimated to have quit their jobs after they were stood down for months on end during the pandemic. (Pictured, ground crew at Adelaide Airport)

And even as the airports try to recover, the AAGHIA warned of possible problems caused by newly-recruited, inexperienced staff.

'The inescapable fact is that as borders reopen, and flights are rescheduled, many will be unable to occur due to a chronic shortage of vital aviation workers on the ground,' Mr Rutherford said.

'What will be left is an industry of rookies, with many experienced and skilled staff having left the industry for good.'

Similar situations played out around the world as international travel resumed. In the US, workers are even being offered $1,000 bonuses to attract them.

Key jobs affected include cleaning, security, driving passenger buses across tarmacs, in-flight catering and baggage and cargo handling. (Pictured, travellers at Perth Airport)

The government will scrap the ban on Australians leaving the country on November 1, but only citizens, residents, and the family will be able to come in, for now.

International travellers flying into NSW and Victoria will not have to quarantine after November 1 providing they are vaccinated and tested for Covid after their arrival, and in Victoria, test negative again three days after arriving.

Queensland has stricter conditions depending on what country travellers are arriving from.

The government has yet to finalise the date for international travel to resume for double-vaccinated travellers, but have flagged it will be in November. (Pictured, Qantas planes parked at Sydney Airport)
Police have released an image of a male suspect on an e-scooter after a man was raped in a Bristol park on October 16

Police have released an image of a male suspect on an e-scooter after a man was raped in a park.

The victim was attacked in Castle Park in Bristol between 6.10am and 6.45am on Saturday October 16.

Avon and Somerset Police has now released a photo of a person they wish to speak to as part of their investigation.

Police believe the suspect spoke with a deep accent likened to being South African.

Officers said in a statement: 'We're releasing an image of someone we wish to speak with as part of our ongoing enquiries.

'He's described as male, black or mixed race, approximately 5ft 9ins, with dark eyes and a slim face with a narrow chin.

''He is said to be slim with broad shoulders.

'He was wearing a black puffa jacket with a hood, dark tracksuit bottoms and black Nike trainers.

'We believe he was seen in the Union Street and Broadmead areas riding a black scooter or e-scooter both before and after the incident.'

The victim was attacked in Castle Park in Bristol between 6.10am and 6.45am

Additional reassurance patrols have been taking place and CCTV enquiries are ongoing.

Anyone who can assist the police in their efforts is asked to call 101 and give the call-handler reference number 5221242253.
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Heathrow today defended a price hike that could leave passengers paying 13 more for tickets - as it revealed Covid losses had plunged to 3.4billion with passenger volumes still at just 45% of pre-pandemic levels.

The airport had planned to double the fee it charges airlines per traveller to 43 in a bid to repair pandemic damage to its finances - a plan slammed by airline bosses who accused it of acting like a 'greedy monopoly'.

Industry regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) then stepped in and ordered the fee - which covers the cost of operating terminals, runways, baggage systems and security - to be capped at 25 to 35 for five years.

An interim charge of 30 has already been agreed for January, and is due to be discussed as part of a separate consultation in November.

The rising cost is likely to be passed on to airline passengers, who have already endured months of travel disruption, confusing travel restrictions and costly Covid testing requirements.

Today, CEO John Holland-Kaye used a financial update to defend the fee increases and lashed out at airlines for opposing them while they were 'free to charge what they choose'.

He said the 76% hike that the CAA said it would consider 'do not go far enough to ensure financeability' and said it needed more money to 'continue to give world-class service'.

Today, Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye used a results update to lash out at airlines for opposing increases to landing fees while they themselves were 'free to charge what they choose'

Passenger numbers at Britain's premier hub airport remain at just 45% of pre-pandemic levels

Passengers arriving at Heathrow have repeatedly faced queuing chaos at passport control - though Heathrow chiefs say the issue is entirely that of the UK's Border Force.

The rise, based on next year's 30 figure, means the average family of four face an extra 32 in flight costs - before any annual ticket price adjustments from the airlines themselves.

It also comes as Heathrow this month introduced a new 5 drop-off charge outside its terminals.

However Heathrow chiefs have defended the hike, which is part of airport's plan to claw back its huge losses suffered due to Covid.

Today, the airport said it is continuing to lose money despite reducing its operating costs by more than 30%.

Passenger numbers are recovering slower than rival hubs on the Continent, including Charles de Gaulle, Madrid and Schiphol.

But Heathrow insisted it has the 'financial strength' to survive 'until the market recovers', with 4.1 billion of cash.

Some 10.2 million passengers travelled through the west London airport in the first nine months of the year, compared with 19.0 million during the same period in 2020.

Mr Holland-Kaye added: 'We are on the cusp of a recovery which will unleash pent-up demand, create new quality jobs and see Britain's trade roar back to life - but it risks a hard landing unless secured for the long-haul.

Heathrow is losing ground on its rival hub airports on the Continent. In this graphic, '9M' refers to the first nine months of the particular year

'To do that, we need continued focus on the global vaccination programme so that borders can reopen without testing; we need a fair financial settlement from the CAA to sustain service and resilience after 15 years of negative real returns for investors; and we need a progressively increasing global mandate for sustainable aviation fuels so that we can protect the benefits of aviation in a world without carbon.'

The CEO said passenger numbers are at 'around 45% of our pre-pandemic levels', and he expects it will take another five years for demand to return to what it was in 2019.

He said: 'We don't think we'll get back to pre-pandemic passenger levels until 2026.

'But we'll have to put a lot of the costs back in before then.'

He added: 'We are seeing steady growth coming through, and so we've taken a view on the market and we're starting to invest ahead of the recovery.

'Having really tightened down on our costs in the last 18 months, you'll see us now starting to invest in bringing people back, recruiting people again and getting ready for the growth ahead of us.'
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The Queen carried out virtual audiences at Windsor Castle today in what were her first official engagements in seven days since she was ordered to rest by doctors.

It is the first time the head of state has been seen - albeit on a screen - since she hosted a busy evening reception for the global investment summit on October 19. The Queen cancelled a trip to Northern Ireland and had preliminary tests in hospital the following day during her first overnight stay at a medical facility in eight years.

Today, the 95-year-old monarch wore a yellow dress and three-strand pearl necklace, and smiled as she was pictured on a computer screen while sat in a room at Windsor. The Queen was also photographed at Windsor in an image released on the royal family's social media accounts.

The monarch was shown side on, smiling as she sat in a chair with her hands in her lap, in front of her computer screen. On the table were the Queen's folded glasses and several pages of typed briefing notes for the audiences.

She greeted the ambassador from South Korea, Gunn Kim, who was at Buckingham Palace dressed in Korean clothing including a traditional hat known as a gat. The Queen also held a virtual audience to receive the ambassador from Switzerland, Markus Leitner, accompanied by his wife Nicole, who were also both at the Palace.

Among those welcoming her return to duties today was Dickie Arbiter, her former press secretary, who tweeted: 'It's so good to see the Queen back at work today and in such good spirits conducting two video link audiences from Windsor Castle.' Royal expert Roya Nikkhah added: 'Good to see the Queen is all smiles back at work.'

It is still hoped that the monarch will be able to lead the Royal Family at the Cop26 climate summit in Glasgow next week, either in person or via videolink. A final decision will be made later this week. Buckingham Palace said yesterday that the Queen was still in good spirits and undertaking some 'light duties' while resting.

The Queen was photographed at Windsor Castle today in a picture released on the royal family's social media accounts. The monarch was shown side on, smiling as she sat in a chair with her hands in her lap, in front of her large computer screen. On the table were the Queen's folded glasses and several pages of typed briefing notes for the audiences

Queen Elizabeth II appears on a screen via videolink from Windsor Castle this morning

The Queen on screen via videolink from Windsor Castle this morning during a virtual audience to meet the ambassador from South Korea, Gunn Kim, who was at Buckingham Palace

The ambassador from South Korea, Gunn Kim, is seen at Buckingham Palace this morning

The Queen also held a virtual audience today to receive the ambassador from Switzerland, Markus Leitner, accompanied by his wife Nicole, who were also both at Buckingham Palace

Swiss ambassador Markus Leitner at Buckingham Palace this morning as he meets the Queen

Today is the first time the Queen has been seen - albeit on a screen - since she hosted a busy evening reception for the global investment summit at Windsor Castle on October 19 (above)

Queen Elizabeth II hosted a reception for international business and investment leaders at Windsor Castle on October 19

The monarch is being looked after by the Medical Household, her expert team of royal physicians.

She is due to attend events in Scotland next week as part of a flurry of royal Cop26 engagements involving the Prince of Wales, the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge between November 1 and 5.

Queen hasn't walked dogs for nearly a week The Queen has not been able to enjoy her daily walk with her dogs for almost a week after being told to rest by doctors. Sources say the monarch has been taking their orders to rest seriously after she was kept in hospital overnight on Wednesday for 'preliminary investigations'. The Queen, 95, has two corgi puppies and dorgi Candy, a cross between a corgi and a dachshund. One of the highlights of her day is being driven to walk them near Frogmore on her Windsor estate, where Harry and Meghan once lived. Family and friends believe these daily excursions are a 'tonic' and have helped keep the Queen so healthy in her nineties. But instead the dogs have been walked by staff since her hospital stay. Buckingham Palace said yesterday that the Queen was still in good spirits and undertaking some 'light duties' while resting. It is still hoped she will be able to lead the Royal Family at the Cop26 UN climate change summit in Glasgow next week, either in person or via video link. A final decision will be made towards the end of this week. Advertisement

On the royal family's website, the Queen is still listed as attending a reception on November 1 as part of the climate change conference.

She had a busy schedule of engagements in the first weeks of October following her return from Balmoral.

Her hospital stay was kept a secret and only confirmed by the Palace when it was revealed by a newspaper.

Last week the BBC's veteran Royal Correspondent Nicholas Witchell faced a backlash last night after questioning whether Buckingham Palace undermined public trust by failing to reveal the Queen had been admitted to hospital.

In forthright comments, Mr Witchell said that journalists and the public had not been 'given the complete picture'.

He added: 'The problem, it seems to me, is that rumour and misinformation always thrive in the absence of proper, accurate and trustworthy information.'

But his remarks provoked criticism online. 'Nicholas Witchell is honestly so infuriating,' one Royal watcher wrote on Twitter. 'The Queen is 95 and like most her age, she'll be in and out of hospital for various tests because that's what happens at that age no matter how fit you are. She doesn't need to disclose her every move, let her have some dignity.'

Another Twitter user wrote: 'He's a pompous a***, full of his own self importance. Bring back Jennie Bond. She was classy.'

A third asked: 'Since when has the Queen been answerable to Nicholas Witchell?'

A BBC stalwart, Mr Witchell, 68, famously provoked royal displeasure in 2005 when, during a press conference in the Swiss ski resort of Klosters, he asked Prince Charles about his forthcoming marriage to Camilla Parker Bowles.

Under his breath, Charles was heard to mutter to Princes William and Harry: 'I can't bear that man. I mean, he's so awful, he really is.'

Her Majesty's return to duties today comes after it emerged she has not been able to enjoy her daily walk with her dogs for almost a week after being told to rest by doctors.

October 16 -- Queen Elizabeth II attends Champions Day at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire

October 13 -- Dame Imogen Cooper is received by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, London, where she was presented with The Queen's Medal for Music for 2019

October 12 -- Queen Elizabeth II uses a walking stick as she arrives to attend a service at Westminster Abbey in London

October 10 -- Queen Elizabeth II is seen on her way to The Royal Chapel of All Saints in Windsor as she returns to church

October 6 -- Queen Elizabeth II gestures as she meets members of the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery to mark the 150th Anniversary of the foundation of A and B Batteries, at Windsor Castle

October 4 -- The Queen is shown the baton that will carry her personal message at Buckingham Palace in London ahead of the launch of the Queen's Baton Relay for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games

October 2 -- Queen Elizabeth II shakes hands with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon as Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall looks on at the opening of the sixth session of the Scottish Parliament

Sources say the Queen has been taking the doctors' orders to rest seriously after she was kept in hospital overnight last Wednesday for 'preliminary investigations'.

Prince Andrew lawsuit 'will cast cloud over Queen's Platinum Jubilee' The Queen's platinum jubilee is set to be dogged by her son Palace Andrew's court drama, in what a royal expert has described as 'grim news' for Buckingham Palace. Documents lodged in New York show the civil case of rape and sexual assault being brought against him by Jeffrey Epstein's victim is to go ahead as quickly as possible. Judge Lewis Kaplan has ruled, with the agreement of both parties, that all disclosures and depositions should be completed before July next year. This means that key moments in the case will be heard in the run-up to the official national celebrations to mark the Queen's 70 years on the throne. And royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said that there will now be a 'cloud' over the festivities, caused by Andrew's 'atrociously ill-advised friendship with Epstein'. The commemorations will last throughout the year and will see senior royals  except Andrew  travel around the country and overseas. The events will culminate in a four-day bank holiday over the first weekend of June. Advertisement

One of the highlights of her day is being driven to walk her dogs near Frogmore on her Windsor estate, where her grandson Prince Harry and Meghan Markle once lived.

Family and friends believe these daily excursions are a 'tonic' and have helped keep the Queen so healthy.

But the dogs have been walked by staff since her hospital stay.

The Queen was seen using a walking stick for the first time at a major engagement during a Westminster Abbey service on October 12.

On Thursday October 21, she was said to be in 'good spirits' after her hospital stay and back at her desk, undertaking light duties.

But she missed a church service at Windsor on Sunday.

Royal sources had briefed the Sunday Times that the Queen was 'knackered' due to a busy social life and preference for late night television, as having a hectic run of engagements in October.

The Queen's husband of 73 years the Duke of Edinburgh died six months ago at the age of 99.

Buckingham Palace would not comment on whether the monarch has received her booster Covid-19 jab, but given her age it is likely she has already had it.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said today: 'Her Majesty The Queen today conducted two virtual audiences via video link from Windsor Castle.

'His Excellency Mr Gunn Kim was received in audience by The Queen today via video link and presented the Letters of Recall of his predecessor and his own Letters of Credence as Ambassador from the Republic of Korea to the Court of St James's. Mrs Hee Jung Lee was also received by Her Majesty.

'His Excellency Mr Markus Leitner was received in audience by The Queen and presented the Letters of Recall of his predecessor and his own Letters of Credence as Ambassador from the Swiss Confederation to the Court of St. James's. Mrs Leitner was also received by Her Majesty.'
A Loudoun County judge has found a teenage boy 'in a skirt' guilty of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old female classmate in the girls' bathrooms at their school, siding with the victim's outraged parents who were shamed for protesting against trans bathroom rules after the incident.

The teenage girl's father Scott Smith was dragged out of a meeting on June 22 after hearing teachers from the woke Loudoun County school board claim they'd received no reports of sexual assaults involving students in the bathrooms, when less than a month earlier, his daughter had reported just that.

Superintendent Scott Ziegler sent an email to parents on the day it happened to say the school was investigating, but told the room on June 22: 'To my knowledge, we dont have any record of assaults occurring in our restrooms.'

On Monday, juvenile court judge Pamela Brooks agreed with the charges - forcible sodomy and forcible fellatio - which is the juvenile court equivalent of a conviction.

The boy, who has not been named because he is a minor, will return to court on November 15 for sentencing. He has also been charged with sexually assaulting another girl at a different school in the same Virginia school district in October.

Loudoun County Schools hasn't commented on the verdict. Students walked out of their classrooms on Tuesday in a show of 'solidarity' for the victim.

Some stood in front of their school, chanting: 'Loudoun County Protects Rapists!'

The girl's parents now say they feel 'relieved' after but are demanding an apology from the National School Board Association for its characterization of parents who angrily protest woke school policies as domestic terrorists.

The NSBA has apologized for threatening to mobilize the FBI to prosecute parents after being asked to do so by the country's increasingly liberal public school system, but Smith says they haven't gone far enough.

He is threatening to sue the NSBA for defamation unless it apologizes directly to him.

Students walked out of Loudoun County public schools on Tuesday in protest against the county's handling of a rape allegation after a judge found the boy accused guilty

Students walked out of classrooms in multiple schools in the district as part of the coordinated protest

Scott Smith, the victim's father, was pictured with a bloody mouth, being dragged out of a school board meeting on June 22 - a month after the attack - after listening to school officials say no one had been sexually assaulted in the bathrooms when that's what his daughter had reported the previous month

The victim's parents were ridiculed by the left after her father Scott Smith was pictured being dragged out of a school board meeting on June 22. They say they now feel vindicated

After Monday's verdict, the family released a statement through their attorney, saying: 'We are greatly relieved that justice was served today.

'No one should have to endure what this family has endured, and now their focus is completely upon their daughters health and safety as she progresses forward with her life.'

Juvenile Court judge Pamela Brooks agreed with the girl and her parents, saying there was enough evidence to prove the teen boy - who is also charged in another sexual assault - forced himself on her

Last week, after the NSBA's apology, he said: 'I am a father who cares deeply for his daughter, who would go to the ends of the earth to protect both her and other students who attend public school in Loudoun County from suffering what she has suffered due to the misguided social policies adopted by the school board.

'I am not a "domestic terrorist".'

'The NSBA defamed me, impugning my reputation and that of other concerned parents who dared challenge our local school board. I am owed an apology and I deserve one.

'I demand the NSBA retract its statement that I am a "domestic terrorist", or I will have no choice but to seek a court to do it for them.'

The juvenile court trial heard how the girl and boy were friends and had previously 'hooked up' with her consent, but that on May 28, he attacked her.

He also told detectives in some of his early statements that he 'stopped' because he knew he was 'hurting the girl', but also claimed the sexual assault only happened when his 'knee length skirt got caught on his watch'.

The pair chatted daily on an app called Discord, according to the boy's attorney, and regularly discussed sex. They had met up in the girl's bathroom at Stone Bridge High School before, he said, to fool around.

The boy's attorney, William Mann, argued that because they'd had consensual sex before - in the bathrooms - he was reasonable in assuming consent on May 28.

The row over transgender policies at Loudoun County schools has divided parents and teachers for months. Pictured, more parents at the June 22 meeting

Superintendent Scott Ziegler claimed on June 22 that he'd received 'no report' of a sexual assault in the school bathrooms. On May 28, the day it happened, he sent this email to colleagues confirming that it had been reported. 'This afternoon, a female student alleged that a male student sexually assaulted her in the restroom'

The judge disagreed. The boy is also facing another sexual battery charge on a different girl at a different school in the district. That case has not been resolved yet, and he will return to court on November 15 for sentencing.

The case became the searing tip of a raging debate in Loudoun County over transgender students' rights and parents' freedom of speech. The row culminated in the June 22 meeting when Smith was dragged out out of the room by cops.

Loudoun County Schools Superintendent Scott Ziegler apologized for failing to provide a 'safe' environment for students

He was ridiculed by the left and made to seem like a bigoted transphobe when it was unknown in the public record at the time that his daughter had been assaulted.

Smith previously spoke to The Daily Wire about the sexual assault, saying he felt he had no choice after watching the school board dismiss it.

The school board initially claimed that no one who spoke at the June 22 meeting knew about the allegation because it was still being investigated by police.

Superintendent Scott Ziegler then issued an apology, saying he 'misunderstood' what he was asked when someone asked if there had been an assault in a bathroom, and that he assumed they meant an assault by a trans teen.

It remains unclear if the boy is transgender and if that is how he was allowed into the bathrooms that day.

Smith, and other parents, were protesting against a proposed rule to allow any child to use any bathroom on any given day, depending on the gender they identified with.

The scandal also gave life to the campaign of Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Glenn Youngkin, who is warning parents of the dangers their kids face in Virginia's public schools unless he is elected.

He was trailing behind Democratic candidate Terry McAuliffe but has since closed in on him.

The polls will open on November 2.

Last week, Youngkin cited the case involving Smith's daughter, saying: 'What other tragedy awaits Virginias children?'

On October 15, Loudoun County Schools Superintendent Scott Ziegler - who was who'd told the school meeting that no sexual assault had been reported - apologized.

The scandal also gave life to the campaign of Republican Gubernatorial Candidate Glenn Youngkin, who is warning parents of the dangers their kids face in Virginia's public schools unless he is elected.

But he didn't accept parents' claims that the school officials had lied, and instead claimed he didn't know what he was being asked.

He did not resign - as parents had requested - and instead apologized for 'misleading' them.

'I regret that my comments were misleading and I apologize for the distress they caused families,' he said.

'To the families and students involved, my heart aches for you. I am sorry that we failed to provide the safe, welcoming and affirming environment that we aspire to provide.

'We acknowledge and share in your pain and we will continue to offer you support to help your families through this trauma,' he said.

Ziegler's apology came as Beth Barts, a board member, resigned.

Furious parents and one 14-year-old student attended a meeting where they called for Ziegler's resignation.

'This is not China, this is the United States of America, and we will not be silenced.'

'Remove the superintendent immediately and then resign for your negligence and duplicity. End this nightmare!' one mother fumed.'

One 14-year-old student said: 'I am 14 years old, the fact that I have to be here defending my rights to not have your radical agenda shoved down my throat in school is not only concerning, it's upsetting. '

'My peers and I are not tools to further your political agenda,' the girl, Katie Young, said.
He claims fraud as Epstein didn't say plane was used for 'rape and trafficking'

A businessman has sued Jeffrey Epstein's estate for fraud because the late pedophile sold him a company that owned a Gulfstream IV jet without mentioning the airplane was used in a sick crime web of girls trafficked for sex.

Thomas Huff, from Marietta, Georgia, runs a charter plane business based in Cobb County, Georgia.

He bought a controlling interest in JEGE LLC, the company Epstein once controlled and that owns the Gulfstream jet, just weeks before the sex offender's arrest in 2019.

Epstein sold Huff 'controlling interest in JEGE' without saying he 'was engaged in a massive criminal enterprise involving rape, sex trafficking, sexual abuse, physical assault, blackmail, intimidation, fraud, and deceit,' Huff's federal suit filed in Atlanta last week alleged.

Huff said the company was 'damaged by the stigma' connected to Epstein.

'JEGE's customers, some of which are very well known to the public, are tracked, surveilled, and reported to the press for using what they believed to be Jeffrey Epstein's company,' the suit said.

Jeffrey Epstein (pictured) sold a controlling interest in JEGE LLC to Thomas Huff weeks before his 2019 arrest

Mr Huff (pictured), from Marietta, Georgia, runs a charter plane business based in Cobb County, Georgia

The charter airline businessman bought Epstein's company, which owned a Gulfstream IV jet (file iamge). Huff's suit alleged the plane was used for the convicted pedophile's 'criminal enterprise'

The lawsuit said the airline businessman 'would not have purchased JEGE' had he known of the sex ring associated with it.

Huff claimed he unsuccessfully attempted to cancel the sale once he realised Epstein had been arrested.

There was ample press coverage of Epstein's 2008 plea deal in Florida, where he acknowledged soliciting and procuring a minor for prostitution, and allegations in 2018 and 2019 of more alleged sex abuse victims.

However, the complaint said: 'Mr. Epstein committed fraud by failing to disclose a material fact that could not have been known through any amount of due diligence by Thomas Huff.'

Huff claimed he unsuccessfully attempted to cancel the sale once he realised Epstein had been arrested

Epstein's Gulfstream G550 jet (pictured), one of at least three in his fleet, went on sale for $16.9million last year

The lawsuit alleged 'just prior' to Epstein's arrest JEGE had assets of more than $3.5million (2.5million). After Epstein's indictment in 2019, the company 'immediately depreciated in an amount in excess of' $1.5million (1million).

'Additionally, JEGE was not able to obtain financing, not because of creditworthiness, but because of the stigma of Jeffrey E. Epstein's victimization of children attached to JEGE,' court papers allege.

As Epstein molested underage girls while he was a director of the firm, the lawsuit said he 'violated his fiduciary duty to JEGE', while it added his 'lies were a breach of the duty of candor'.

'He knew or should have known that his ongoing criminal enterprise would undermine the value of JEGE if and when it was discovered,' it said.

Epstein has owned at least three private jets in a fleet worth around $80million: the Gulfstream IV, a large Boeing 727 known infamously as the 'Lolita Express', and a 2008 Gulfstream G550, which went on sale for $16.9million (12.2million) last year.

The Gulfstream G550 featured beige and cream leather seats, mahogany-finished surfaces and a plush royal blue carpet

Photographs of the late multi-millionaire pedophile's 2008 Gulfstream G550 were posted by aircraft sales firm Equus, showing the beige and cream leather seats, mahogany-finished surfaces and plush royal blue carpet.

Selling the jet could raise millions for Epstein's estate, which is currently being sued by several women for alleged sexual abuse both on his jets and his New York and Virgin Islands homes.

Before he died the 66-year-old pleaded guilty after prosecutors charged him with abusing girls as young as 14 in a 'vast network of underage victims'. His jets have always been considered a venue for some of the abuse.

The FBI has identified dozens of alleged young abuse victims over the years and one claimed she was abused in 'international airspace on Epstein's private planes'.

It's alleged Epstein used the 727 to shuttle underage girls between his residences in New York and Palm Beach.

Victims have since claimed Epstein had a large bed installed on the jet where guests had group sex with young girls, fulfilling their warped fantasies.

In 2015, victim Virginia Giuffre Roberts filed a lawsuit against the billionaire, claiming he recruited her as a 'sex slave' at the age of 15, sexually abusing her for years on his private jet as well as his various homes in New York, New Mexico, Florida, and the US Virgin Islands.

A 2019 report claimed court filings showed that Epstein sold the Lolita Express weeks before his arrest on July 6 that year.

Huff and Darren Indyke, a lawyer and co-executor of Epstein's estate, were both contacted for comment by MailOnline.
Derek Chauvin, the disgraced Minneapolis cop convicted of murdering George Floyd, may have one of his convictions overturned after another officer from the same department had a homicide conviction scrapped last month.

Former Minneapolis officer Mohamed Noor, 36, was initially convicted of third-degree murder and manslaughter in the 2017 shooting of Justine Ruszczyk Damond, an unarmed, dual U.S.-Australian citizen and yoga teacher who was engaged to be married, and was sentenced to 12 years in prison in 2019.

She was shot dead after running up to Noor after calling 911 to report what she feared was a rape happening nearby, with the cop later convicted of her killing.

However, that sentence was tossed in September of this year, after Noor's lawyers argued that the third-degree murder charge did not fit the then officer's crime, citing a technicality concerning the specific wording of Noor's murder charge.

Legal experts now fear that precedent could be used to challenge Chauvin's April 2021 conviction for the third-degree murder of Floyd in May 2020. He was also convicted of unintentional second-degree murder, with legal experts saying it is unlikely both can stand, and that the murder three charge could be dropped.

Minneapolis cops Derek Chauvin, 45, and Mohammed Noor, 36, were both convicted of murder after killing George Floyd and Justine Ruszczyk Damond, respectively, while on duty. Namond's third-degree murder conviction, however, was tossed last month, leading experts to believe that the same may happen for Chauvin

The Hennepin County Attorney's Office initially charged Noor with third-degree murder for committing a dangerous act and exhibiting 'a depraved mind.'

But Noor's legal team attested that the officer was merely spooked when he gunned down Damond, 40, who had called the officers to her Minneapolis home to report a possible rape, and was shot after running up to Noor's and his partner's squad car.

The legal maneuver worked, and Noor's third-degree murder charge was tossed - leaving Noor with just the manslaughter conviction.

The ex-cop was then resentenced to just five years in prison earlier this month, as opposed to the aforementioned 12.

Noor also already served 29 months of his sentence over the course of his trial, making him eligible for early release as soon as June 2022.

The overturned conviction now has experts wondering what could happen to Noor's counterpart Chauvin, the Minneapolis cop charged with killing Floyd, an unarmed black man, in May 2020 during a routine arrest.

George Floyd and Justine Ruszczyk Damond were both killed by Minneapolis police officers while they were on duty. The similarities in both of their cases lead experts to believe that the rulings in one may set a legal precedence for the other

'Chauvin will likely have his decision reversed because it is legally incompatible to say that someone is guilty of intentionally doing something and at the same time they're guilty of unintentionally doing something,' criminal defense attorney Andrew Wilson told VICE News days after Noor's murder charge was tossed.

Wilson was referring to Chauvin being convicted of both second-degree unintentional murder, and third degree murder.

Video footage of the 2020 incident showed Chauvin, 45, kneeling on Floyd's neck for more than nine minutes while handcuffed, leading to the 46-year-old man's death.

The veteran officer was subsequently sentenced to 22-and-a-half years in maximum security state prison in June of 2021, after being convicted in April for his role in Floyd's highly publicized death.

Now, Chauvin, a white man, is looking to appeal this conviction - but Wilson says that while Chauvin might obtain a technical victory, he thinks it's unlikely that the killer cop will have his sentence reduced.

'I don't think it's going to result in a reduction of his sentence,' Wilson theorized to VICE, adding, 'But I do think it poses real problems for that conviction to stand against him.'

'So on appeal, they might get a reversal of that conviction.'

Chauvin was seen in video footage from Memorial Day 2020 kneeling on George Floyd's neck for more than nine minutes while he cried out that he couldn't breathe

The conviction Wilson is referring to is Chauvin's third-degree murder charge, which, if following the precedent set by Noor's case, could be overturned, according to the attorney,

However, Chauvin was also convicted of second-degree murder in Floyd's death - which won't be so easily reversed.

Nonetheless, the overturning of Noor's murder charge and his subsequent resentencing opens the door for other, similar cases to also be reexamined, with their rulings potentially being overturned, experts say.

Legal experts speaking to The Associated Press last week agreed with Wilson's analysis that the state Supreme Court's about-face concerning Noor's third-degree murder conviction could mean that Chauvin's third-degree murder conviction could also be tossed out.

But Minneapolis defense attorney Ryan Pacyga also reiterated Wilson's hypothesis that such a development will not have any real impact on Chauvin's situation, due to the second-degree murder charge - unless it was somehow overturned on appeal.

Pacyga, however, told The AP that the likelihood of such an event is slim to none.

Chauvin also was convicted of second-degree manslaughter.

He is currently seeking to appeal his murder convictions, but he is also facing additional, federal charges in Floyd's death, after a grand jury indicted him and three of his fellow officers on civil rights-related offenses.

The federal filings came two weeks after Chauvin was found guilty of all three of the state's charges against him.

If sentenced federally, Chauvin would first serve his state sentence and subsequently be moved to a federal prison.

However, the trial is not expected to start until sometime next year.

Also still to come are the state and federal trials of the other three officers involved, who are charged with aiding and abetting in Chauvin's murder and manslaughter of Floyd.

Thomas Lane, J. Kueng and Tou Thaowill were originally slated to face state trial in August, but the trial was pushed back to March of next year, to allow the publicity over Chauvin's conviction to cool off.

The three former officer's federal trials, where they, like Chauvin, will face charges that they violated Floyds civil rights during his May 25 arrest, will follow at some point after.
Western Australia and Northern Territory will be the only no-go zones in Australia this Christmas as the rest of the country finally comes out of Covid isolation.

South Australia became the latest state to confirm a date to throw open its doors to visitors again, with vaccinated travellers welcome from November 23.

And it means a happy Christmas is ahead with much-needed summer holidays and overdue interstate family reunions for visitors from NSW, Victoria, and ACT.

But it leaves WA Premier Mark McGowan and NT First Minister Michael Gunner looking like the grinches who cancelled Christmas for their voters.

Western Australia and Northern Territory will remain the only no-go zones in Australia this Christmas as the rest of the country finally comes out of Covid isolation. (Pictured, a family enjoys Christmas lunch)

South Australia became the latest state to confirm a date to throw open its doors to visitors again, with double-jabbed travellers welcome from November 23. (Pictured, a wine-lover in South Australia's Barossa Valley)

Both will stay cut off from most of the rest of the country while everyone else rediscovers the holiday joy of travelling across Australia and the world.

South Australia passed 63 per cent vaccinated on Tuesday and is projected to hit 80 and 90 per cent in time for a grand re-opening ahead of Christmas.

'I know this will be a huge relief for so many South Australians who are wanting to get back to normality as soon as possible,' SA Premier Steven Marshall said.

All visitors will need to provide a negative test three days before they arrive, but immunised visitors will only need to quarantine if they are from virus hotspots or where vaccination rates are below 80 per cent.

Vaccinated overseas travellers will only need to quarantine for a week on arrival in SA under the new roadmap but unvaccinated visitors will still need to quarantine for 14 days.

If the state hits 90 per cent before Christmas, virtually all restrictions will be dropped completely for vaccinated visitors and locals and tests won't be needed for entry.

Premier Mark McGowan (pictured) said he doesn't expect the state to hit the vital 80 per cent mark until some time in the first half of next year

Western Australia is currently lagging behind the rest of the country with just 60 per cent fully inoculated against Covid in the slowest vaccine rollout in Australia. (Pictured, camels at sunet on idyllic Cable Beach)

In contrast, Mr McGowan still refuses to even set a date for reopening until 80 to 90 per cent of West Australians aged 12 and above are vaccinated.

The sealed-off state is lagging behind the rest of the country with just 60 per cent inoculated against Covid in the slowest vaccine rollout in Australia.

Mr McGowan said he didn't expect the state to hit 80 per cent until some time in the first half of next year, ruining Christmas for families split by the lockdown.

'We're continuing to get as many people vaccinated as we can, to make sure that we get through the Christmas holidays before we open to NSW and Victoria and potentially get cases,' he said on Tuesday.

A happy Christmas is ahead elsewhere in the country with much-needed summer holidays and overdue interstate family reunions for visitors from NSW, Victoria and ACT. (Pictured, a slice of paradise on our doorstep in Australia)

WA remains open to travellers from SA, Tasmania, and the NT, while Queenslanders will no longer need to quarantine from Wednesday.

But the resumption of widespread domestic travel could prompt a return to total isolation in WA for the festive season.

'We'll monitor what occurs in South Australia and whether they get cases and how soon they do,' Mr McGowan said.

'They've got density limits on cafes, restaurants, bars, they've got seating requirements if you want to go and have a drink.

'They've got restrictions on fitness classes, they've got mask-wearing at a whole range of venues.

'That will be a massive burden on small businesses and it will impact Christmas in South Australia. We're pretty keen to avoid that.'

the resumption of widespread domestic travel could prompt a return to total isolation in WA for the festive season. (Pictured, crowds of tourists at Victoria's 12 Apostles)

The Northern Territory is aiming to lift quarantine requirements for double-jabbed visitors by January 18. (Pictured, a couple soak up Uluru at sunset)

The premier last week outlined mandatory vaccination requirements for most of the state's workforce, including a January 31 deadline which would coincide with the end of the school holidays and ahead of a potential reopening of borders.

The Northern Territory is aiming to lift quarantine requirements for vaccinated visitors by January 18 - weeks after Christmas.

Mr Gunner even demand 14 days home quarantine under strict controls for vaccinated arrivals, and plans to half that on December 20, just in time for Christmas.

But that will only be allowed in 'high vaccination rate areas' of 80 per cent or more - and nowhere in the NT meets that mark.

The Top End is just ahead of Queensland and WA in its rollout with 61.69 per cent vaccinated, but still far behind the rest of the country.

NSW has no restrictions on entry from interstate while Victoria will scrap all quarantine requirements from November 1, as will the ACT.

Queensland will reopen to the vaccinated on December 17 and Tasmania will allow visitors on December 15, but they must submit a negative test.

The Top End is currently just ahead of Queensland and WA in its vaccination rollout with 61.69 per cent fully vaccinated, but still far behind the rest of the country. (Pictured, sun-seekers enjoy Queensland's secluded beaches on the Whitsundays)
Britain didn't focus enough on airborne Covid transmission at the beginning of the pandemic, a Government adviser today admitted.

Professor Andrew Curran, chief scientific adviser for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), which issues the Government's official workplace guidance, told MPs that early Covid advice over-emphasised surface cleanliness, instead of the need for proper ventilation.

Speaking to the Science and Technology Committee, he said that while scientific opinion shifted quickly, public health recommendations were slow to catch up.

Top scientists initially feared the coronavirus was spread mainly via surfaces such as door handles, post boxes and desks at the start of the crisis last year.

It led to Government-issued guidance to businesses which instructed them to spend thousands of pounds on cleaning products to wipe down PCs and door handles for when employees returned to the workplace.

But research has since shown the risk of transmission from touching contaminated surfaces is low, nailing aerosol droplets as the main way the virus transmits between people.

Professor Curran today said Britain should have focused more on stopping airborne transmission at work.

He added that thousands of offices which have been spot-checked by the HSE have not been following all of the agency's guidance, which includes advice on cleaning, hygiene and ventilation.

Britain did not focus enough on airborne Covid transmission at the start of the pandemic, according to Professor Andrew Curran, the chief scientific adviser for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)  which issues the Government's official workplace guidance

Professor Curran said: 'I think we could have focused more on airborne transmission at the start definitely. And I think we have corrected that.

'There has been a big move towards identifying the need to improve ventilation, for example, to make sure spaces are appropriately managed from an occupancy perspective.'

UK's multi-billion-pound mass testing for asymptomatic Covid could be halted in January, health chief hints Professor Lucy Chappell, chief scientific adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care, today hinted Britain's mass testing for schoolchildren could be halted after January Britain's mass asymptomatic testing programme could be abandoned in January, a Government scientific adviser today hinted. Professor Lucy Chappell, chief scientific adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care, said the Government was committed to testing  including of schoolchildren  until at least January. Speaking at the Commons Science and Technology Committee she said ditching tests after that date was under consideration, with the multi-billion scheme being slammed for keeping healthy people out of classrooms and the workplace. Professor Chappell said: 'In the short term, I think we should be continuing with testing, particularly symptomatic individuals. 'And I know that other groups are evaluating at what point we reconsider testing asymptomatic individuals beyond January, beyond spring.' She added: 'I would like to think that in five years' time we won't all be lateral flow testing. 'There's a stretchable point between those five years clearly.' She continued: 'Between now and January, it's clear that we've committed to testing. 'We are then reconsidering where we go beyond January, beyond spring.' Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, the head of the Oxford Vaccine Group, told MPs that it was 'absolutely critical we keep children in school', adding the biggest impact of the pandemic had been the psychological effect of being forced to stay home. Professor Pollard told MPs: 'Clearly, the large amount of testing in schools is very disruptive to the system, whether that is the individual child who is then isolating because they tested positive but they're completely well, or because of the concerns that that raises more widely in the school  we're aware of families taking their children out because someone's tested positive in a school. 'So I think there is a huge impact of widespread testing in schools. 'I think probably we need to move in the pandemic, over this winter, maybe towards the end of the winter to a completely different system of clinically-driven testing. 'In other words, testing people who are unwell rather than having regular testing of those people who are well, because that does drive a lot of these actions that happen, particularly in schools, if you have lots of asymptomatic testing.' Advertisement

The World Health Organization (WHO) has not recorded a single case of Covid being spread via surfaces.

Professor Curran argued the HSE has also been unable to prove the coronavirus has ever spread through touching surfaces in the workplace because of how 'incredibly difficult' it is to pinpoint its spread.

But he insisted the agency's swabbing of workplaces has shown that virus DNA can survive on surfaces, suggesting it could theoretically spread via that route.

He said: 'I don't want to overemphasise the potential for surface transmission, but I also wouldn't want to rule it out.

'Identifying mRNA on a surface is not evidence of transmission but we have been able to grow live virus from surfaces that have been swabbed from outside the hospital environment using samples from homes for example, remote controls and telephones and that kind of thing.'

The HSE still suggests employers invest in surface disinfectants to help clean workplaces, despite the lack of evidence suggesting the virus can be transmitted from them.

Most researchers now accept droplets containing the SARS-CoV-2 virus emitted when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks are the main way the disease is passed on.

The WHO and US Centers for Disease Control and Protection (CDC) initially declared the virus could only be spread by large droplets but now admit aerosol spread is also important.

Experts at the WHO changed their opinion after a group of 239 scientists from 32 countries called on the organisation to update its recommendations in an open letter published in the scientific journal Clinical Infectious Diseases last November.

Acknowledging the smaller droplets allowed countries to institute policies tailored to that style of transmission  including wearing face masks, encouraging meeting outdoors and improving ventilation  rather than focusing on spread via large droplets  which resulted in policies including cleaning surfaces and using physical barriers to dry and prevent the virus jumping from person-to-person.

Larger droplets fall quickly and therefore can only cause transmission if people are in close contact, whereas aerosols can spread over greater distances, particularly when indoors.

A study in the 700,000-strong city of Boston, Massachusetts, in February suggested the chance of catching the virus from frequently touched surfaces such as ATMs, petrol pumps and pedestrian crossings is low.

Scientists swabbed hundreds of supermarket door handles, post boxes and bin lids between April and June last year, during the first wave. But they only detected Covid 29 times  or eight per cent of samples.

And even when the virus was identified it was in amounts so small the researchers said the risk of infection was 'low'  estimated to be as little as one in 2,000.

Despite evidence suggesting contaminated surfaces play a minimal role in transmission, experts say people should still sanitise their hands to stay safe. They argue the virus can still enter the body when infected hands touch the nose and mouth.

Professor Curran also revealed HSE spot checks of more than 330,000 offices and workplaces in Britain found thousands were not complying with the agency's Covid guidance.

He said while 'more than 90 per cent' were following recommendations to improve ventilation, invest in hand sanitiser and encourage face mask-wearing in enclosed environments.

The agency now recommends workplaces improve ventilation by opening windows, doors and air vents where possible.

It offers guidance on how offices can identify poorly-ventilated areas by using carbon dioxide monitors.

And it guides employers on how and when to use air conditioning units to improve poor ventilation.

Professor Curran today said Britain should have focused more on stopping airborne transmission at work [stock image]

But Professor Curran said around four per cent  13,200  of the workplaces visited by the agency since October last year were not following all the rules. He did not specify in what way companies were failing to meet the guidance.

He said: 'To check whether things were actually being done appropriately, HSE instituted a series of spot inspections and therefore we've had boots on the ground, we've had people calling companies, following that up with visits.

UK needs to ramp up vaccination drive to reach the 4million unjabbed, experts tell MPs Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, who helped create the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, says Britain should focus on getting first and second doses out to the unvaccinated Britain should focus on vaccinating the 4million unjabbed Brits to help ease the burden on intensive care this winter. Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, who helped create the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, says Britain should focus on getting first and second doses out to the unvaccinated. Professor Pollard said: 'Now you could argue that all the other measures, and having more people boosted, mask-wearing and so on will also have an impact, of course it will do on those unvaccinated individuals, so if we want to protect intensive care there are measures to do that (such as restrictions) 'But also, we could be vaccinating those individuals, focusing on that, which would protect intensive care.' Sir Andrew said hospital admissions now were 'quite a different story from last year', with the vast majority of people now going in having shorter hospital stays and much milder disease. Many of these people also have underlying health conditions 'which are destabilised by having a relatively mild Covid infection', he said. Advertisement

'There has been something like 330,000 spot inspections [and] the vast majority  upwards of 90 per cent  of organisation that we have been up to  are doing things that meet the guidance.

'That's not to say everybody gets it right.'

Meanwhile, another Government scientific adviser today hinted Britain's mass asymptomatic testing programme could be halted after January.

Professor Lucy Chappell, chief scientific adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care, said the Government was committed to testing  including of schoolchildren  until at least January.

Speaking at the same committee she said ditching tests after that date was under consideration, with the multi-billion scheme being slammed for keeping healthy people out of classrooms and the workplace.

Professor Chappell said: 'In the short term, I think we should be continuing with testing, particularly symptomatic individuals.

'And I know that other groups are evaluating at what point we reconsider testing asymptomatic individuals beyond January, beyond spring.'

She added: 'I would like to think that in five years' time we won't all be lateral flow testing.

'There's a stretchable point between those five years clearly.'

She added: 'Between now and January, it's clear that we've committed to testing.

'We are then reconsidering where we go beyond January, beyond spring.'

Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, the head of the Oxford Vaccine Group, told MPs that it was 'absolutely critical we keep children in school', after thousands were forced to miss classes because of testing positive for the virus with lateral flow swabs despite not displaying symptoms.

He added the biggest impact of the pandemic had been the psychological effect of being forced to stay home.

Professor Pollard told MPs: 'Clearly, the large amount of testing in schools is very disruptive to the system, whether that is the individual child who is then isolating because they tested positive but they're completely well, or because of the concerns that that raises more widely in the school  we're aware of families taking their children out because someone's tested positive in a school.

'So I think there is a huge impact of widespread testing in schools.

'I think probably we need to move in the pandemic, over this winter, maybe towards the end of the winter to a completely different system of clinically-driven testing.

'In other words, testing people who are unwell rather than having regular testing of those people who are well, because that does drive a lot of these actions that happen, particularly in schools, if you have lots of asymptomatic testing.'
Ministers today vowed to push the button on a new wave of nuclear power - but admitted electricity prices will rise.

Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has unveiled legislation designed to bring in a wider range of investment.

The government is determined to reduce reliance on overseas money, meaning that China is expected to be shut out of projects including Sizewell C - which is in line for a green light.

But the new finance model will involve consumers helping bear the up-front costs of nuclear plants, rather than paying a premium when they start producing electricity.

That will potentially add 1 per month to an average household electricity bill.

While the move will delight Tory MPs who have been warning about growing Chinese influence, it risks the wrath of Beijing.

The government is determined to reduce reliance on overseas investment in nuclear, meaning that China is expected to be shut out of projects including Sizewell C (artist's impression)

Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng has unveiled legislation designed to bring in a wider range of investment. But the move could anger Chinese premier Xi Jinping

The Nuclear Energy (Financing) Bill will use a model known as the Regulated Asset Base (RAB) to fund future nuclear power stations in Britain.

The same template has been deployed on the Thames Tideway Tunnel 'super-sewer' and Heathrow Terminal 5.

Previously developers have to finance the construction of nuclear projects until they start generating electricity.

But the up-front burden has been blamed for the collapse of schemes including Hitachi's project at Wylfa Newydd in Wales and Toshiba's at Moorside in Cumbria.

In future the costs could be shared with households as soon as the schemes get formal approval. The government argues that the finance mechanism will save consumers 30billion on each new large-scale nuclear plant.

There is also hope in Whitehall that removing China from the equation will unlock investment from British pension funds and others.

The state-backed China General Nuclear (CGN) has a 20 per cent stake in the current consortium proposing Sizewell C in Suffolk.

Mr Kwarteng said: 'In light of rising global gas prices, we need to ensure Britain's electricity grid of the future is bolstered by reliable and affordable nuclear power that's generated in this country.

'The existing financing scheme led to too many overseas nuclear developers walking away from projects, setting Britain back years.

'We urgently need a new approach to attract British funds and other private investors to back new large-scale nuclear power stations in the UK.

'Our new model is a win-win for nuclear in our country. Not only will we be able to encourage a greater diversity of private investment, but this will ultimately lower the cost of financing new nuclear power and reduce the costs to consumers and businesses.'

Currently around 16 per cent of the UK's electricity generation comes from nuclear power, but many of the plants are due to be decommissioned.

The RAB model could also be used on new nuclear technologies, including Small Modular Reactors designed and built in the UK.
This is the moment an aggressive customer who was refused entry to a restaurant for not wearing a mask is floored with one punch after pushing another diner.

The video, which has since gone viral on social media, opens with a bald, bespectacled man railing against a shocked restaurant staffer for being denied entry due to his refusal to wear a mask.

The man can be heard yelling at the staff member, accusing her of 'discriminating' against him for enforcing the restaurant's mask policy, before declaring 'you're going to f*ck your restaurant up!'

The staff member simply responded 'it's a mandate!' in exasperation as she faced down the man's tirade.

As he turned to make his way out of the restaurant, an elderly customer is heard saying 'just leave, sir', which reignited the man's anger.

The man stormed back into the restaurant and shoved the grey-haired customer, shouting 'you want to do something?!', to which the customer replied, 'I don't want to do anything' as the man forced him backwards again.

Watching the elderly customer get picked on was seemingly the straw that broke the camel's back.

A group of other restaurant goers leapt up to the elderly man's defence and formed a barrier between him and his aggressor.

It was at that moment that one man wearing a blue sweater sprinted forward to deliver a left hook to the anti-masker's jaw, which sent him flying backwards towards the door and appeared to knock out his tooth.

The anti-masker pulled himself to his feet and complained 'that's assault!', before scurrying out of the restaurant without his glasses - and perhaps a few teeth.

A horde of other restaurant goers leapt up to the elderly man's defence and formed a barrier between him and his aggressor, before a customer wearing a blue sweater sprang forward with a brutal left hook

The topic of mask-wearing has become one of the America's most divisive issues in recent weeks.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that even vaccinated people wear a mask in areas where there is a 'substantial or high transmission risk', but state and local governments ultimately have the final say on mask policy.

These policies differ dramatically across the country as a result, with some states like Texas decreeing that local governments cannot enforce a mask mandate on citizens.

Conversely, states like California and New York have extremely stringent mandates which enforce mask wearing in many public places and require citizens to have proof of vaccination to attend public venues like restaurants and bars.

As he turned to make his way out of the restaurant, an elderly customer is heard saying 'just leave, sir', which reignited the man's anger. He stormed back into the restaurant and violently shoved the elderly customer backwards

The punch from the customer in the blue sweater sent the man careering backwards across the restaurant floor and appeared to knock out his tooth

The majority of US states do not have specific rules and regulations on mask-wearing, but there are other mandates regarding vaccinations that apply across the country.

The Biden administration in September announced a series of proposals to combat the spread of Covid, one of which will see companies of 100 employees or more obligated to ensure their workers are fully vaccinated or submit to weekly tests.

Meanwhile, Biden signed orders which stipulated that most federal employees must be vaccinated against Covid and removed the option to submit to regular testing.

Mask mandates have since become more than a public health issue and the concept of enforced mask wearing has become heavily politicised.

While many Americans follow public health recommendations and wear masks in public, others passionately fight against the mandates and see them as a restriction of fundamental freedoms.

The man complained he was assaulted before sheepishly scurrying out of the restaurant without his glasses
A lost collection of Faberge heirlooms have been discovered in a museum basement where they had been hidden for almost 90 years.

The items were found covered in dirt and dust but in good condition during a routine trip through the storerooms of the Royal Pavilion and Museums in Brighton.

Dating to the turn of the last century, the previously unrecorded antiques are believed to be worth over 1 million.

They are now set to go on a new public display.

The items include two jewel-encrusted photo frames made by the prestigious Russian jewellery house.

The lost collection of Faberge heirlooms, which date back to the turn of the last century, were found during a routine trip through the storerooms of the Royal Pavilion and Museums in Brighton

Both frames contain contemporary photos of two women.

While their identities remain something of a mystery, it is thought one of them may be Princess Alice of Battenberg, Queen Victoria's great-granddaughter and mother of Prince Philip.

The five Faberge items may have been brought back to Britain by Henry Vere Benett, who worked for the British Intelligence Services at St Petersburg during the 1917 Russian Revolution.

He was known to have searched in local jewellers for things to send back to his stepmother, Lady Ellen Thomas-Stanford who lived at Preston Manor in Brighton.

Dating to the turn of the last century, the previously unrecorded antiques are believed to be worth over 1 million. The items include two jewel-encrusted photo frames made by the prestigious Russian jewellery house

Also included in the small collection are two gum pots (one pictured) and a stamp damper

Lady Thomas-Stanford was a wealthy heiress and personal friend of Princess Beatrice, the daughter of Queen Victoria.

After she died in 1932, Preston Manor and its contents were left to the local authority to become a museum.

The Faberge items were recently discovered by pure luck by the Antiques Roadshow's Geoffrey Munn.

He had been carrying out a routine visit to the storerooms of the Royal Pavilion and Museums Trust in Brighton when he walked past a display cabinet of mostly English porcelain.

He saw the corner of the purple enamel Faberge photo frame sticking out of the tissue paper it had been wrapped in.

The items were found covered in dirt and dust but in good condition during a routine trip through the storerooms of the Royal Pavilion and Museums in Brighton

He asked for the cabinet to be opened up and unwrapped the tissue paper to reveal the Faberge items covered in years of dust and dirt.

They included the two enamelled silver and gold photo frames, two gum pots and a stamp damper.

Mr Munn has carried some research into the items and has been able to trace them back to Lady Ellen of Preston Manor.

He said: 'This is a very exciting discovery not least because it was completely serendipitous.

'I was there researching a Sussex painter and there really was a snowflake's chance of me finding what I did.

'I was walking along in the basement after something completely different and I saw the corner of one of the photo frames sticking out of some tissue paper.

The five Faberge items may have been brought back to Britain by Henry Vere Benett, who worked for the British Intelligence Services at St Petersburg during the 1917 Russian Revolution

'Because I have spent my whole life working with Faberge things I simply recognised it and said 'come on let's lift up the tissue paper' and there were the two frames, two gum pots and a stamp damper in blue enamel.

'If the tissue paper had covered it completely they would still be there now.

'I was thrilled but they were also filthy and covered in tobacco tar and God knows what else that obscured their brilliance.

'Faberge is a very famous name now but it hasn't always been and was completely out of fashion in the 1920s and 30s.'

On the back of the photo frames Mr Munn found stuck on inventory numbers written in the same hand as inventory numbers for items at Preston Manor.

The hallmarks on them also told him the frames were made between 1896 to 1906.

The photographs of the two women sitters were contemporary to this time.

Princess Alice of Battenberg would have been aged in her late teens and the woman in the picture thought to be of her is wearing a type of pearl earrings that she was known to have had.

She was connected to the Russian Royal Family who were overthrown in the Russian Revolution on 1917.

Mr Munn has no idea who the second woman in the photograph is and is appealing for the public's help to find out.

He added: 'The photos haven't been seen by the public since they were left by Lady Ellen.

'How she got them is the great enigma and it remains so but she was certainly in the orbit of Royal Family as Queen Victoria's daughters stayed as weekend guests with her.

'And there has always been a very strong royal connection with Faberge, after all his main clientele was the Russian Royal Family and to an extent the British Royal Family.'

The items will be on display at the Brighton Museum & Art Gallery from November 2 to June 2022.
Cleo Smith's heartbroken stepfather has returned to the family's home for the first time since his little girl vanished during a camping trip 11 days ago to allow police to scour the inside.

The four-year-old girl's teary-eyed mother Ellie told a TV interview on Monday that the couple had hardly been back to the house, finding it too agonising to return without their daughter.

Cleo went to sleep in a tent at Blowholes campsite, near Carnarvon in Western Australia, alongside her parents and baby sister, but was gone by morning.

Detectives and forensic crews were reportedly inside the house in Carnarvon on Tuesday afternoon for seven hours, desperately searching for anything which could help make sense of how the four-year-old disappeared.

Jake Gliddon, who is not considered a suspect by police, led investigators through the front door and spoke with detectives inside for several minutes before they all left in separate cars and forensic officers descended on the home.

About 6.30pm cops emerged with two evidence bags but it has not yet been revealed what was inside, the West Australian reported.

Little Cleo Smith and her step father Jake Gliddon are pictured together

Mr Gliddon is seen walking his step daughter carrying a pink backpack to pre-school

Prime Minister Scott Morrison the same day assured the family that everything is being done to find Cleo, including the use of 'secret technology'.

Although investigators had been to the home before, this was the first time they thoroughly searched inside with a forensics team.

On the previous occasion forensic officers combed the outside looking for signs of a stalker along the fence line and windows but 'no evidence' was uncovered and the theory discounted.

The little girl in pink pyjamas was sleeping in a tent alongside her mother Ellie, stepfather and baby sister Isla on their first camping trip together.

But when her parents awoke at 6am on October 16, she was gone along with her sleeping bag, which has also not been found.

Police initially believed Cleo had simply wandered off at the remote campsite, but investigators are now convinced she was snatched in the dead of night by a child predator.

A massive land, sea and air search has continued for almost two weeks but there is still no signs of the pre-schooler and detectives have no firm suspects.

To flush out information the WA government last week announced a $1million reward for any information that can lead to Cleo's whereabouts.

The heartbroken step father of Cleo Smith (pictured in a green singlet and sunglasses) has returned to the family's home for the first time since his little girl vanished from Blowholes campsite in Western Australia 11 days ago

Jake Gliddon (pictured) is not considered a suspect by police in Cleo's disappearance

Mr Gliddon (pictured with police) led investigators through the front door and spoke with detectives inside for several minutes

The Prime Minister told 6PR radio on Tuesday that the case has captured the 'hearts and minds' of everybody in the country.

He also said that everything is being done to locate the missing child including the use of top secret technology.

'It certainly has captured our minds here - our hearts just go out to them,' Mr Morrison said.

'But in terms of technology and tradecraft, the Australian Federal Police have some very advanced capabilities, leading edge, not just here in Australia but all around the world.

'As much as I'd love to reveal exactly what some of those are, and how they're being used, we certainly can't talk about that on air.

'I just hope we can find Cleo, I just really do. I just think the whole nation is just waiting and hoping and praying - we certainly are.'

Detectives are now looking into footage taken from a home on the North West Coastal Highway, near the Blowholes campsite, which reportedly shows a sedan travelling down the road at about 3am

Forensic investigations (pictured) descended on the home at about 2.30pm on Tuesday

A police vehicle is pulled up outside the family's home as investigators look for evidence inside

Immense scrutiny has followed Ms Smith and her partner Mr Gliddon since their nightmare ordeal began, with hoards of online sleuths and 'amateur detectives' pointing the finger at them.

The devastated couple vehemently on Monday night denied any involvement in Cleo's disappearance and made a heartfelt plea to bring her home.

Ms Smith urged anyone with information on the missing toddler to call police because 'we want our daughter back and she wants us'.

Wiping away tears, she also had a message for Cleo's abductor: 'Just give her back to us,' she said on Channel Seven's Flashpoint program.

Queensland body language expert Allan Pease, said the couple were telling the truth and showed very 'raw emotion' and seemed heavily reliant on each other to answer questions.

'There was nothing contradictory or deceitful or collusive about them - I see them as trying to emotionally support each other,' he told The West Australian.

'Ellie is constantly deferring to him (Jake) to make sure that what she's saying is OK,' he said.

'When she was answering questions the reporter asked, she'd give the answer but she'd look at Jake, she didn't actually answer to the reporter.'

Ellie Smith posted a 20-second TikTok montage of the smiling blonde-haired girl (pictured playing a xylophone) along with missing persons posters reminding Australians of the $1milliion reward for information that can lead to her whereabouts

Cleo was sleeping in a tent alongside her mother Ellie, stepfather and baby sister Isla on their first camping trip together. But when her parents awoke at 6am on October 16, she was gone along with her sleeping bag

A $1million reward is now on offer for anyone who has information into the disappearance of missing Cleo with fears she may have been abducted

He said it was most likely because she was intimidated about being on camera and not because she was being untruthful.

'I mean these are just ordinary people from a small country town having the media and the police thrust in their face. These people just aren't professional actors - they're just lost,' he said.

Ms Smith on Tuesday said she was overwhelmed by the generosity of Australians who donated to a Gofundme page set up by a family friend.

Bill Kent on October 16 launched the fundraiser to continue the search and it has climbed to $76,230.

'We had a lovely friend start a GoFundMe to support the small businesses and ourselves during this nightmare,' Ms Smith said on Instagram.

'We have been overwhelmed with so much love and support especially our community friends and family.'

Emergency crews scoured the area to locate the missing four-year-old who hasn't been seen in over a week

Big sister Cleo Smith is pictured with her younger sibling Isla before she vanished.

Cleo Smith's devastated mother Ellie burst into tears as she pleaded for the safe return of her missing four-year old daughter during an emotional TV interview

Although detectives have no strong leads about who the child abductor might be, there was a major breakthrough in the case on Tuesday.

Police seized CCTV of a car driving down a highway in the middle of the night near the campground where Cleo Smith was last seen.

Detectives are now looking into footage taken from a home on the North West Coastal Highway, which shows a sedan travelling down the road at about 3am.

Two people on their way to work earlier told police they saw a car turning south off Blowholes Road about 3am on the day Cleo vanished.

Police are now working to identify the driver and registration plates to determine whether or not the car seen in the footage is the same as the one in the reports, 7 News reported.

'We want the person or persons who were in that vehicle to come forward and contact police,' Detective Superintendent Rod Wilde earlier told reporters.

'We want to know who they were and what they were doing.

'The time is not exact but we believe it to have been between 3am and 3.30am.'

When her parents woke in the morning at about 6.30am, Cleo (pictured holding a cupcake with a sparkler inside) along with her grey and red sleeping bag had vanished

The four-year-old disappeared in the early hours of October 16 and was last seen in the tent she was sharing with her family at the Blowholes camping site, near Carnarvon in Western Australia

Superintendent Wilde said the evidence was 'credible' and the witnesses only came forward after learning of the possible abduction of the child, having not thought their sighting of the car was significant at the time.

The witnesses were travelling north on the North West Coastal Highway on their way to work when they spotted the mysterious vehicle leaving the camping ground.

Unfortunately, they were unable to give a description of the car or how many people were inside as it was too dark.

Other witnesses said they heard the sound of screeching tyres leaving the campsite at around the same time.

Cleo was last seen by her mother Ellie Smith and step-dad Jake Gliddon at 1.30am on Saturday October 16 when she asked for a sip of water
A Virginia woman who was convicted of selling nearly $32 million in counterfeit coupons and using her ill-gotten gains to pay for home renovations and luxury vacations was sentenced to 12 years in prison

Lori Ann Villanueva Talens, 41, shipped tens of thousands of coupons she designed and printed at home to a network of more than 2,000 customers she amassed on social media sites like Facebook and Telegram using the name 'MasterChef.'

Fake coupons with a collective value of $1 million were found in 'every crevice' of the Virginia Beach home she shared with her husband, Pacifico Talens Jr., when a warrant was executed for their arrest.

'There were coupons in every jacket pocket; they were stuffed in her vehicles,' according to Postal Inspector Jason Thomasson.

About 100 companies, including Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola and Ziploc, were victimized by the 'counterfeit coupon empire' - paper products company Kimberly-Clark was the hardest hit, with nearly $9 million lost to the scheme.

The FBI also found designs to create coupons for more than 13,000 different products on Talens computer.

After reviewing the designs of the 'Frankenstein' coupons - which combined elements of legitimate ones - and comparing them with counterfeit coupons in circulation, they determined she was responsible for $31,817,997 in losses.

Lori Ann Talens, 41 (pictured) said in a 2014 interview with The Virginian-Pilot that her father told her: 'Lori Ann, don't be the girl who goes for the guy with the hooked-up nice car and the power suits. You be the woman with a nice car, and you be a power suit, because the only person you can depend on is yourself.' She was sentenced to 12 years in prison last month for printing and distributing $32 million in counterfeit coupons

Prosecutors said that she 'perfected the art' of counterfeiting coupons, and was able to 'create [coupons] virtually indistinguishable from genuine [ones].'

The majority of her forgeries offered deals equal to - or even greater than - the value of the merchandise. In cases where the discount exceeded the item's price, retailers had to pay customers from their registers for 'purchasing' them.

'Coupon fraud is not a harmless crime. Lori Ann Talens and her husband operated an audacious fraud scheme that stole more than $31 million directly from retailers and manufacturers,' said Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBIs Norfolk Field Office.

However, Talens' attorney Lawrence Woodward Jr. argued that his client should get a lighter sentence because she gave authorities information about the 'rather murky world of counterfeit couponing' in interviews and identified other counterfeiters.

Lori Ann Villanueva Talens, 41 (pictured), distributed tens of thousands of coupons she designed and printed at home to a network she amassed on social media sites like Facebook and Telegram using the name 'MasterChef,' the FBI reported last Thursday

Fake coupons with a collective value of $1 million were found in 'every crevice' of her home when a warrant was executed - 'there were coupons in every jacket pocket; they were stuffed in her vehicles,' according to Postal Inspector Jason Thomasson

With a background in marketing and strong computer design skills, the FBI said, she was 'able to create a coupon for almost any grocery or drugstore product, and able to make it for whatever value off she wanted.'

'She had coupons for $24.99 off a $25 box of diapers. And it would work,' said Thomasson. 'And youd have people walking out the door with those diapers for almost nothing.'

With the savings from her coupons and the proceeds from their sale, Talens paid for vacations, shopping trips and dinners out for herself and her family. The profits also bought her a new kitchen, sunroom and in-ground swimming pool.

Over three years, Talens was paid $400,000 by her subscribers between April of 2017 and May of 2020, an amount that the FBI said was determined through a 'painstaking' review of thousands of transactions through payment apps and virtual currency wallets.

She would ship the fraudulent coupons via the United States Postal Service. The racket was discovered after a member of Talens' secret network - which participants could only join after they'd sent along a copy of their photo ID and some kind of proof that they had used fake coupons before - reported her to the Coupon Information Corporation, an agency dedicated to coupon integrity.

After an investigation, the agency connected Talens to $125,000 in fake coupons that had traveled from stores to coupon clearinghouses, where they are collected so product manufacturers can be billed to repay the retailer. Then, the FBI got involved.

'If the coupons are rejected, if they are counterfeit, then the retailer doesnt get paid back for them,' said FBI Special Agent Shannon Brill.

'But that whole process takes a lot of time. By the time a coupon gets identified as being fraudulent or fake, that coupon has already been used who knows how many times.'

Talens was sentenced on September 14 after she pleaded guilty for mail fraud, wire fraud and welfare fraud. The FBI is still seeking out subscribers to her forged coupon service, who 'should not be surprised if they hear from investigators.'

'I am deeply ashamed and embarrassed by the way I have acted,' she wrote in a letter filed with the office of US District Judge Rodrick C. Young, according to the New York Times.

'I realize I have served as a terrible moral example on how to act responsibly for my three children. I will regret that the rest of my life.'

In addition to the coupon scheme, the fraudster applied for benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program and Medicaid, and reaped a total of $43,000 between November 2015 and February 2020.

She was sentenced to an additional 10 years for welfare fraud, which she will serve concurrently to her 12-year sentence.

Her husband was sentenced to 87 months in prison on August 17, according to the US Attorney of the Eastern District of Virginia.

Pacifico helped ship the illegitimate coupons to customers and 'perform[ed] other administrative tasks at the direction of his wife,' prosecutors said.

'But for Lori Anns expertise, motivation, and determination, this scheme could not have occurred... She deserves the lions share of the credit for its success, and must receive the lions share of the punishment for the harm she has caused.'

Talens got 12 years in prison on September 14 after she pled guilty to mail fraud, wire fraud and welfare fraud - her husband Pacifico Talens Jr., 43 (pictured left), was sentenced to 87 months for mail fraud

The conwoman had told The Virginian Pilot in 2014 that she was a car show model who competed in shows with her own vehicles, including a premium GTR, and alleged that she was the 'most booked model on the East Coast.'

'At my first car show, I had just finished detailing my car for about five hours. My hands were black and covered with brake dust. A photographer said, "Wow, you are gorgeous. Can I take a picture?" I was like, "Um, OK." I just hid my hands behind my back, and he took a head shot that went in six magazines.

'He said, "Hey are you going to enter the bikini contest?" and I said, "Hell no!" But my whole car club was trying to get me to do it because we got points for participation. That's when he said I would get paid $300 an hour for a two-hour shoot.'

Talens said her father told her 'Lori Ann, don't be the girl who goes for the guy with the hooked-up nice car and the power suits. You be the woman with a nice car, and you be a power suit, because the only person you can depend on is yourself.'
Republican lawmakers implicated in an explosive Sunday report detailing alleged coordination behind events that led to the January 6 Capitol riot are tearing into the allegations made against them.

Rep. Andy Biggs of Arizona criticized Rolling Stone for using 'baseless claims' and 'anonymous sources' in its report on Tuesday.

'Congressman Biggs has addressed the events of Jan. 6th several times and has made his lack of involvement abundantly clear. It should come as no surprise that baseless claims by "anonymous sources" were given a public platform by a fake news tabloid such as Rolling Stone,' Biggs' communications director Hilton Beckham told DailyMail.com.

'The Far Left are terrified that the American people hold Biden and the Democrats accountable for their failing socialist agenda, and are attempting to deflect.'

Biggs was one of several GOP House representatives named as having communicated with pro-Trump rally organizers ahead of the protests held on January 6.

The others are: Rep. Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Rep. Paul Gosar of Arizona, Rep. Mo Brooks of Alabama, Rep. Louie Gohmert of Texas and Rep. Madison Cawthorn of North Carolina.

Rep. Greene, when asked by CNN about her involvement, said the 'only thing' she was involved in was objecting to the election results and reportedly asked of Rolling Stone: 'Shouldn't they cover music?'

Reps. Andy Biggs and Marjorie Taylor Greene took shots at Rolling Stone's credibility over its January 6 report

Rep. Lauren Boebert denied the allegations made against her while Rep. Paul Gosar has kept mum on the report

While the report fails to explicitly link the lawmakers to the Capitol riot, some of the claims made by two anonymous Trump supporters who planned events on January 6 would mean lawmakers and members of Donald Trump's orbit had more knowledge of the potential for violence to break out than previously known.

Rep. Louie Gohmert threatened to take legal action and demanded that Rolling Stone release the names of its sources.

He also echoed the baseless claim that the US intelligence community was behind the Capitol riot.

'No one in my office, including me, participated in the planning of the rally or in any criminal activity on January 6. We did not attend of participate at all. However, I am extremely interested to find out who, besides the FBI operatives, did plan the events on January 6,' Gohmert said on Twitter Monday.

'For the purpose of a potential defamation lawsuit against those making baseless accusations of a crime, I need to know who these persons are who are alleging that I helped.'

Rep. Lauren Boebert, who the report claims frequently communicated with rally organizers in the lead-up to January 6, also released a statement on Monday flatly denying the allegations.

'Let me be clear. I had no role in the planning or execution of any event that took place at the Capitol or anywhere in Washington, DC on January 6th. With the help of my staff, I accepted an invitation to speak at one event but ultimately I did not speak at any events on January 6th,' Boebert said.

'Once again, the media is acting as a messaging tool for the radical left.'

Boebert posted her statement to Twitter and made a reference to pop star Ariana Grande's song 'thank u, next'

Rep. Louie Gohmert threatened legal action in his statement

She ended the statement, 'Now, grasping at straws, Rolling Stone is using anonymous sources and shoddy reporting to attack me. Thank you, next.'

Boebert was named as one of the featured speakers at a rally planned for the Capitol lawn that day. The sources in the report claimed they went as high as to then-White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows with concerns that event could turn violent.

Rolling Stone also claimed to obtain 'documentary evidence' that its sources were in contact with Boebert and Arizona Rep. Paul Gosar on January 6.

Rep. Mo Brooks claimed he didn't know whether his staff was communicating with rally organizers in a conversation with the Montgomery Advertiser on Monday.

'If youre talking about someone participating in meetings, setting the agenda, raising the money, I dont know of anything that suggests my staff as doing that stuff,' Brooks told the outlet.

Brooks was one of the speakers at Trump's Stop the Steal rally at the White House Ellipse. He infamously wore body armor to the event and encouraged the already impassioned crowd to start 'taking down names and kicking a**.'

The report implicates Brooks as having a hand in 'planning Stop the Steal protests with them that would 'take place in conjunction with objections that were being made by Trump allies during the certification on the House floor that day.'

'It was in a variety of calls, some with Gosar and Gosars team, some with Marjorie Taylor Greene and her team  Mo Brooks,' one of the rally organizers said.

Police clash with supporters of US President Donald Trump who breached security and entered the Capitol building in Washington D.C. on January 6

Speaking to CNN, Brooks vehemently denied he was involved in any planning - but appeared more hesitant about those in his office.

'I dont know if my staff did,' Brooks said. 'But if they did Id be proud of them for helping to put together a rally lawful under the First Amendment at the ellipse to protest voter fraud & election theft.'

Pressed again on whether his staff was involved, Brooks said: 'If so, I dont recall it. You have thousands upon thousands of discussions. Nothing along those lines stands out.'

Cawthorn, the other lawmaker who spoke at Trump's rally, denied the allegations to the Daily Caller.

'These anonymous accusations are complete garbage. Neither the congressman nor his staff had advance knowledge of what transpired at the Capitol on Jan. 6 or participated in any alleged "planning process." Unhinged Democrats are trying to impeach President Trump a third time by going after his defenders in the Congress, and apparently only Rolling Stone would stoop low enough to accept their narrative built on anonymous sources. We see through their BS,' his spokesperson said.

The two sources involved in Sunday's report claim they are cooperating with the bipartisan House Select Committee investigating the Capitol riot.

The witnesses also claim to have taken part in 'dozens' of briefings with members of Congress and their staff leading up to January 6 riot.

'I remember talking to probably close to a dozen other members at one point or another or their staffs,' one person said. 'I remember Marjorie Taylor Greene specifically.'

But the most potentially damning allegations involved dentist-turned-lawmaker Rep. Gosar, who reportedly dangled the possibility of a pardon in front of their faces for an unrelated probe in a bid to force them into planning rallies.

In a brief statement to the Daily Caller, Gosar called the claims 'categorically false and defamatory.'

Gosar has been one of Trump's most vocal supporters in Congress. He was billed at a speaker for another January 6 rally, the Wild Protest, whose organizer Ali Alexander named as one of three lawmakers who helped him plan how to 'put maximum pressure on Congress while they were voting' to certify the election results.

Rep. Mo Brooks spoke at Trump's Stop the Steal rally, where he wore body armor and encouraged the audience there to 'kick a**'

Rep. Madison Cawthorn was also one of the speakers at Trump's January 6 rally

The other two were Biggs and Brooks.

One of the organizers said Gosar made it seem like 'he'd spoken to the president about it in the Oval in a meeting about pardons and that our names came up.'

'They were working on submitting the paperwork and getting members of the House Freedom Caucus to sign on as a show of support.'

They added, 'Our impression was that it was a done deal.'

The House Freedom Caucus is chaired by Biggs, one of the lawmakers accused in the report.

But the pair said Gosar offered a 'blanket pardon' on multiple occasions.

Once, they claim he said: 'I was just going over the list of pardons and we just wanted to tell you guys how much we appreciate all the hard work youve been doing.'

The organizers expressed disappointment that the dentist-turned-lawmaker never followed up on his promise.

'I would have done it either way with or without the pardon,' one person said. 'I do truly believe in this country, but to use something like that and put that out on the table when someone is so desperate, its really not good business.'

The two rally planners also claimed that they had regular to frequent communication with White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows and Trump campaign aide Katrina Pierson.

'Meadows was 100 percent made aware of what was going on,' one witness said. 'Hes also like a regular figure in these really tiny groups of national organizers.'

He's one of four people 'with close ties to the former president' who the bipartisan House panel is interested in hearing from, in addition to Steve Bannon, former White House aide Dan Scavino and former Pentagon official Kash Patel.
A hulking father who is charged in the death of his malnourished one-year old daughter raced off to feast on fast food after bringing the dying girl to the hospital.

Christian Bishop-Torrence of Wichita Falls, and the girl's mother, Sage Wright, have been charged with capital murder and could face the death penalty after officials said the child had not received proper nutrition since last October.

The beefy dad had brought his sore-covered daughter to United Regional Hospital on June 11 after he noticed she was gasping for air before he left to get fast food, according to court records.

The young girl died weighing just eight pounds; the average weight of a child her age is between 22 to 24 pounds.

Both Bishop-Torrence and his partner Sage Wright were arrested on June 18 and were indicted in September on three counts of child neglect and endangerment.

Texas couple Christian Bishop-Torrence (left) and Sage Wright (right) have been charged with murder in connection to the death of their one-year-old malnourished daughter

The couple was made aware of the child's weight loss but did not seek out medical attention for her

The dad had asked a friend help to take him and his daughter to the emergency room after he noticed she had difficulty breathing.

Bishop-Torrence told doctors that his daughter was taking shallow breaths and heard a rattle when she exhaled.

Hospital officials noticed that the child had dirt on her skin as well as blisters on her lower back and buttocks when she was admitted.

Her autopsy revealed that there was no acute trauma that could have caused her death and ruled that she died from neglect, according to the affidavits.

The pair are currently being held on a bond of $1.6 million each.

They had told police officers that they noticed their daughter had been losing weight since January 2020 after Wright had brought it to Bishop-Torrence's attention.

Wright, who has two other kids, had also told police that she was not able to bond with her young daughter as she had with her two other.

The child was not taken in for medical attention even after both her parents became aware of the situation. Medical experts say she was not taken for her two-month, six-month, nine-month or 12-month wellness checks.

DailyMail.com reached out to WFPD for comment.
Boris Johnson's environmental plan to make the UK 'net zero' has been branded 'utterly futile, virtue signalling gesture politics' by one of his own backbenchers.

Outspoken rightwinger Philip Davies made the remark in a letter to one of his constituents in Yorkshire this week, ahead of the Cop26 UN summit in Glasgow.

Mr Johnson yesterday admitted he fears the major international climate change summit he will host from Sunday could fail to make the progress needed.

The PM has made a raft of green announcements in recent weeks and months, with an over-arching goal of making the UK net zero in terms of carbon emissions by 2050.

But in the letter sent last week Shipley MP Mr Davies said the pledge 'would make no difference at all to global temperatures - particularly when countries like China, India and emerging economies in Africa are going to be increasing their carbon emissions each year by more than our entire total'.

He added: 'Such action would be utterly futile, virtue signalling gesture politics which would also bankrupt the country along with many families.'

Serial rebel Philip Davies made the remark in a letter to one of his constituents in Yorkshire this week, ahead of the Cop26 UN summit in Glasgow.

Mr Johnson yesterday admitted he fears the major international climate change summit he will host from Sunday could fail to make the progress needed.

In the letter sent last week Shipley MP Mr Davies said the pledge 'would make no difference at all to global temperatures - particularly when countries like China, India and emerging economies in Africa are going to be increasing their carbon emissions each year by more than our entire total'

$100bn green pledge to be delivered three years late Wealthy nations will not deliver a long-promised 100 billion dollars a year in climate finance for poor countries until 2023, three years late, a report has found. Public and private finance totalling 100 US billion dollars (72 billion) a year by 2020 - to help poor countries develop cleanly and cope with the impacts of global warming - was first promised at troubled UN talks in Copenhagen in 2009. The pledge, which was extended in 2015 to run through to 2025, has become a totemic figure for international climate action to support countries which have done least to contribute to the crisis but are most vulnerable to its impacts. Delivering finance has been one of the key aims for the UK as host of the latest round of UN climate talks which start in Glasgow in less than a week, with Cop26 president Alok Sharma describing it as "a matter of trust". Analysis shows that while developed countries have scaled up climate finance flows in the last decade, the 100 billion dollar target is unlikely to have been met in 2020, and is also likely to fall short in 2021 and 2022. Advertisement

'That is money the country and many of my constituents can ill afford; especially when the actions of other countries will make it utterly futile,' added Mr Davies, in a letter first reported by Yorkshire Live.

'It would be much more sensible to spend money on adapting to changes in the climate rather than an unrealistic view that we are going to change the world's climate.

'That change in the world's climate is just not going to happen - anyone who thinks every country in the world is going to take these measures are in cloud cuckoo land.'

Mr Davies told the website: 'A lot of my constituents will agree with what I have said.'

The Prime Minister will welcome world leaders to Glasgow for the United Nations Cop26 summit but said it was 'touch and go' whether key goals would be met.

'We need as many people as possible to go to net zero so that they are not producing too much carbon dioxide by the middle of the century,' he said.

'Now, I think it can be done. It's going to be very, very tough, this summit.

'And I'm very worried, because it might go wrong and we might not get the agreements that we need. It's touch and go.'

Mr Johnson said 'peer pressure' at the UN summit could force some nations into action.

But with some major world leaders including China's Xi Jinping expected to stay away due to the state of the coronavirus pandemic the chances of that tactic being a success may be limited.

Mr Johnson acknowledged 'it's very, very far from clear that we will get the progress that we need' although he praised Australia for the 'heroic' decision to commit to net zero by 2050.

Downing Street said Mr Johnson was setting out the 'realistic situation' about the chances of Cop26 being a success.
Portland's ultra-woke policies have hit the spotlight again after a man living in a homeless hotel allegedly shot two dead while high on meth after the city decriminalized all drugs, with murders now at an all-time high.

The unidentified male and female victims were killed at the Biltmore Hotel in the city's Old Town neighborhood Sunday. That property is used as apartments for the homeless, with Michael S VanDomelen, 45, now charged with both murders.

They have become the city's 71st and 72nd murder victims of 2021, surpassing the previous all-time record for murders in a single year - 70 in 1987 - with more than two months of the year still left to go.

It comes a year after the Oregon city decriminalized the possession of small amounts of all drugs - including cocaine, heroin and crystal meth, with its liberal policymakers under fire as crime spirals out of control.

VanDomelen was arrested and charged on two counts of first degree murder on Monday in Multnomah County Circuit Court. He claimed to have heard voices inside his head telling him to shoot people while he was high on meth, according to court documents.

Michael Scott VanDomelen, 45, said he heard voices inside his head telling him to shoot people while he was under the influence of methamphetamine

Around 6:25 a.m. on Sunday, local authorities responded to reports of shots being fired inside the Biltmore. Once they had arrived, police found two victims who were already pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The victims, a man and a woman, will be identified at a later time after the Oregon State Medical Examiner confirms their names and contacts their families.

After believing to hear shots fired on the third floor of the apartment complex, a resident of the building told local police he went into the hallway and saw a male and female who had been shot inside an open apartment, according to a probable cause affidavit filed Monday.

That witness said he heard the male victim make noises, but the man was no longer responsive when he went to check on him, court documents read.

The witness then police that he came across VanDomelen in the hallway and asked if he knew who shot the victims, court documents reveal. VanDomelen responded by saying, 'I did,' according to court documents.

VanDomelen was also carrying a gun and indicated he wanted to put the male victim out of his misery, the witness told police, according to court documents. The witness also said that he heard an additional gunshot as he left the apartment.

Security footage from the apartment hallway showed VanDomelen pointing a firearm into the apartment where the two victims were found, court documents show. After an exchange with the witness, footage shows VanDomelen pointing the gun into the apartment once again, according to the affidavit.

Police found a 9mm handgun in his pocket at the time of his arrest, according to the affidavit. Officers said VanDomelen confessed to the killings while he was in a squad car, court documents show, with no motive yet given for them.

VanDomelens court appointed attorney, Jonathan Sarre, declined to comment Monday. VanDomelen has not been previously convicted of any violent crimes, but was convicted for heroin possession, a felony, and a trespassing charge in 2008, according to court records.

He told authorities that he had been using amphetamines on a weekly basis and that his drug usage helps him with anxiety, according to court documents. VanDomelen added that he does not suffer from any mental illness.

Police in Oregon can no longer arrest someone for possession of small amounts of heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, oxycodone and other drugs. Instead, people found in possession would face a $100 fine or a health check that could lead to addiction counseling, unless they are also facing other charges.

Court documents also show that VanDomelen told police that he has been living in the Portland metro area his entire life and currently lives at the Biltmore Hotel, which is run by Central City Concern.

Sunday's shooting took place at the Biltmore Hotel, an apartment building for Section 8 recipients. Section 8 is income-based housing program and is designed to provide rental assistance through housing vouchers to eligible, very low income families, disabled, and elderly individuals

The apartment building's units are single-room occupancy with common bathroom facilities. Most units are rent subsidized through Section 8, with residents paying a portion of the rent. Created by Congress in 1974, Section 8 is a housing program based on income that is designed to provide rental assistance through housing vouchers to eligible, very low income families, disabled, and elderly individuals.

Other than the two residents, Police told Central City Concern that a guest was also involved in the shooting, according to the organization's senior director of public affairs, Juliana Lukasik.

VanDomelen pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is being held without bail at the Multnomah County Detention center while he awaits his next trail appearance, scheduled for November 2nd at 9.30 a.m.

As well as smashing Portland's murder record, the double murders were two of 19 shootings from Friday through early Sunday morning in the area.

Portland has seen a surge in gun violence during the coronavirus pandemic, with 2021 reaching historic levels of people killed (71), expecting to top a 1987 stat. In a pre-pandemic era (2019), the amount of homicides was half the amount (36) as there are in the city today.

Since the coronavirus pandemic, Portland's police department has been struggling to keep up with local crime amid an acute staffing shortage and budget cuts after calls to 'defund the police' in 2020 - city leaders slashed $27 million from the police budget that year, and crime is showing no sign of slowing down.

The city is also on the verge of creating a new police oversight board with sweeping powers, with most of those nominated for roles openly declaring progressive stances.

Meanwhile, last Tuesday, at least 100 self-proclaimed anarchists tore through the city, setting dumpsters aflame, smashing windows and causing $500,000 in damage. Police say 35 separate locations were targeted as the force stood idle due to a new state law that restricts how law enforcement can respond to riots.

At the same time, Oregon's largest city is also implementing what it has called 'novel solutions' aimed at improving safety, including adding traffic barrels to prevent drive-by shootings and suspending minor traffic stops so officers can focus on immediate threats.

Those measures have been ridiculed by locals fed-up of the extreme violence that has made parts of the city a no-go area after dark or on weekends.

So far this year, Portland has had about 1,000 shootings, 314 people have been injured by bullets, and firearms have accounted for three-quarters of homicides. Police attribute much of the gunfire to gangs, fights and retaliation killings, but they are also affecting bystanders.

Portland has also been rocked by violent protests, including a 100-person protest on October 12 that caused $500,000 in damage (pictured)

Nationally, homicides increased by nearly 30 percent from 2019 to 2020, based on FBI data. However, in Portland, deadly violence is increasing at a faster rate than nearly all major cities, with an 83 percent increase in homicides in 2020.

Portland has seen more homicides in 2021 than some larger cities, including San Francisco, and twice as many slayings as its larger neighbor, Seattle. Other hard-hit Western cities include the Albuquerque, New Mexico, metro area, which has about 679,000 residents and has seen a record 97 homicides this year.

Portland police have struggled to quell the violence with a force 128 officers below its authorized strength. Since August 2020, about 200 officers have left the department. Many, in their exit interviews, cited low morale, lack of support from city officials and burnout from months of racial justice protests, which often ended in plumes of tear gas before largely dying down since summer.

'We are running on fumes. There's no way we can investigate thoroughly, and correctly, all these shootings,' said Daryl Turner, executive director of Portland's police union.

Police say the law ties their hands as it prohibits them from using crowd control techniques like pepper spray or tear gas. Instead, law enforcement agencies are told to rely on follow-up investigations to hold rioters accountable

A mob amok through the streets on October 12 and shattered windows, set fires and sprayed graffiti messages like 'anarchy means attack,' 'riots work' (pictured) and 'breaking windows is good'

Turner says the city will need to hire 840 officers over the next five years to implement proper community policing and keep Portland safe.

Besides staffing, Turner said the increase in violence is directly related to budget cuts.

Amid booming calls to defund the police, city leaders slashed $27 million from the police budget last year - $11 million due to the pandemic-caused budget crisis - a decision that Turner says has cost lives.

Officials also disbanded a specialized unit focused on curbing gun violence, which had long faced criticism for disproportionately targeting people of color.

Insufficient manpower and funds have forced officials to implement nontraditional ideas in an attempt to hinder gun violence.

More traffic barrels were installed this month in a southeast Portland neighborhood plagued by shootings, some linked to high-speed drivers. City Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty said they hope to slow activity at gun violence hot spots and make it harder to 'both commit a crime and get away with it.'

'This is an all-hands-on deck situation where government needs to dig deep, think creatively,' Hardesty said. 'From police to community-based organizations to infrastructure design - we all have a role to play in this emergency.'

Hardesty is pro-defund the police, but was branded a hypocrite last year for calling police on a Lyft driver who refused to put up the windows of his car when she moaned about being cold.

Painted messages encouraging violence against police are no longer uncommon to come across in the city, including one that reads 'kill cops' (pictured)

Police say 35 separate locations were targeted in the destruction Tuesday night, October 12 - including banks, retail stores, coffee shops and government buildings. Above is the damage done to Portland's 10th-tallest building, the Moda Tower

In addition, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler announced in June that officers are no longer being directed to stop drivers for low-level traffic violations.

He was forced to move from his home last year after the apartment building was targeted by activists intent on keeping its occupants up all night.

Wheeler and Police Chief Chuck Lovell said this was in response to data showing a disproportionate impact on black drivers, but also because the city doesn't have enough officers.

But experts, police and residents say these measures aren't nearly enough to counter the most violent year in the city's modern history.

'This past year has shattered anything that I've ever witnessed,' said Irving, the outreach worker and a former gang member. He said he does not see gun violence slowing without more officers on the street and a specialized gun violence unit, along with investments in community-based organizations.

Four cultural institutions in Portland's Old Town Chinatown neighborhood recently sent a letter to officials, demanding immediate action to keep visitors, staff and volunteers safe.

The increasing violence and pleas for cities to do more have compelled some areas to switch from defunding police departments to restoring funding to them.

On October 16, Lovell posted the above tweet addressing Portland's gun violence. The city has seen more than 1,000 shootings over the past year

In major cities across the country, portions of police budgets are being restored. From Los Angeles to New York, some law enforcement departments that underwent massive budget cuts, amid nationwide protests over the murder of George Floyd last year, have had local leaders restore funds or implement new programs or units.

In Portland, there's money available for public safety in the form of a $60 million general fund excess balance.

The City Council can use half the money, which came from business taxes last year and was far more than anticipated, however it wants. Whether a significant portion will go to the police bureau has yet to be determined.

'We have to realize that everybody has a role, from community members to the police department,' Irving said. 'No one entity is going to solve gun violence.'
A Queens Catholic school music teacher was fired from his job after his gay marriage was reported to the Brooklyn Diocese, which ruled his nuptials violented his contractual obligation.

Matthew LaBanca was canned as a music teacher at St. Joseph's Catholic Academy in Astoria and as music director at Corpus Christi church on Oct. 13 after someone called the Diocese of Brooklyn to inform officials about his August wedding to his partner Rowan.

In a YouTube video titled 'What happened to Mr. LaBanca?' the former music teacher - who says he was openly gay - lays the blame for his termination on Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio, who oversaw parishes in Brooklyn and Queens.

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Matthew LaBanca (pictured) said he was fired on October 13 after someone called the Diocese of Brooklyn to inform them about his August wedding to his partner Rowan

Matthew LaBanca was let go from his job as a music teacher at St. Joseph's Catholic Academy in Astoria and as music director at Corpus Christi church

Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio (pictured), who oversees parishes in Brooklyn and Queens, was blamed by LaBanca for firing him

Last month, DiMarzio resigned after a Vatican investigation cleared him of sexual abuse allegations Bishop Robert Brennan of Columbus, Ohio, was appointed to take over in Brooklyn, NBC News New York reported.

He said a diocesan committee met for six weeks, something which is 'unheard of,' to determine the fate of his employment.

Ultimately the committee decided that LaBanca's gay marriage did not 'support and exemplify by his/her public conduct Catholic doctrine and morality,' a Diocese spokesman told the New York Daily News in a statement.

'Despite changes to New York State law in 2011 legalizing same-sex marriage, Church law is clear,' the statement added. 'In his case, it has been determined that he can no longer fulfill his obligations as a minister of the faith at either the school or the parish.'

In his video, LaBanca pointed out that discrimination based on sexuality is illegal in New York state but the First Amendment allows for religious institutions to legally discriminate.

'But just because something is legal, doesn't make it right,' he said.

Matthew LaBanca was fired from his job as a music teacher at St. Joseph's Catholic Academy in Astoria (pictured)

LaBanca says Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio (pictured with Pope Francis) made the final call to fire him

A Change.org petition calling for LaBanca's reappointment to both his positions has already garnered over 1,500 signatures

LaBanca said the principal at the school tried to keep him on board and was his 'fiercest advocate,' but ultimately it was out of his hands.

After being let go, LaBanca says he was offered a severance package that included an almost 10-page gag order to keep him from speaking about his termination, which he says 'is a lot of ways to say "shut up, don't talk about this."'

'Obviously I have not signed it because I realized no price could be placed on my personal integrity, on my voice,' he added.

LaBanca said his termination was purely about his sexuality.

'I'm stripped of both of my jobs, all of my employment, my health insurance and, most importantly, the community life that has meant so much to me, not because of my work performances, not in the slightest, but because I'm gay,' he said.

A Change.org petition calling for LaBanca's reappointment to both his positions has already garnered over 1,500 signatures.

'This community's loss has opened discussions of how Catholics and the LGBTQ+ community need to find ways to exist together and foster healing,' the petition said. 'We ask your support in signing this petition, honoring and demanding an environment within the Catholic Church where the children of God may serve in their ministries, regardless of who they love, and without fear of reprisal.'

LaBanca ended his video with a message for his former students, reminding them that even though he is no longer their teacher, he is still a part of their lives.

'I love you all so much, I miss you,' he said. 'I'm still your friend, I'm still your colleague, I will always have been your teacher and of course I'm still your neighbor and I hope that I will be seeing you and I hope that you'll be on the look out for me too.'
The death of a nine-year-old boy whose skeletal remains were found over the weekend inside a Houston apartment also housing his three starving brothers has been ruled a homicide.

The Harris County Medical Examiners Office on Tuesday ruled that the unnamed child suffered multiple blunt force injuries, resulting in his death by homicide.

It is unknown at this time whether the victim's mother or her boyfriend, who were interviewed and released yesterday, would face any charges in connection with the child's death.

A spokesperson for the Harris County Sheriff's Office wrote in an email to DailyMail.com: 'no charges have been filed by our investigators as of today. The findings of the Institute of Forensic Science along with our investigation results will be presented to a prosecutor when applicable.'

According to a report from the victim's 15-year-old brother, he and his two surviving siblings had been living with his decomposing body in their apartment for a year.

Shortly before the teen called 911 on Sunday, he texted his mother to tell her he could not take it anymore, it has emerged.

The call led to a series of disturbing revelations, including that the three children, ages 15, 10 and 7, had been left to fend for themselves for several months, relying on food donations from unsuspecting neighbors to survive, while sharing an apartment with the decomposing remains of their sibling - even as their mother and her boyfriend lived just 15 minute away.

Detectives with the Harris County Sheriff's Office questioned the couple before releasing them Monday pending the outcome of the criminal investigation. Child welfare services in Texas have also launched an investigation into the horror find at the apartment complex on Houston's west side.

Erica Chapman, who lives at CityParc II at West Oaks Apartments, said she was among the people who had been feeding the malnourished 15-year-old, not knowing he was living with his two younger brothers.

'The first time I saw him, he was sleeping on one of the slides,' Chapman told KTRK.

Harris County Sheriff's Department officers are seen above at a Houston apartment complex on Sunday afternoon where three children were found in a neglected state along with the decomposing body of their slain 9-year-old brother

The mother of the three children lived with her boyfriend just 15 minutes away from the apartment complex where her 9-year-old son was found dead

Investigators also found the decomposed body of a nine-year-old boy inside the apartment

Law enforcement officials said that the three children were given food by neighbors

Chapman said she noticed that the teen's mother was rarely home. She would occasionally show up bearing noodles, snacks and drinks. The abandoned teen would run downstairs to pick up the food and then return to the apartment.

About six months ago, Chapman said she started offering the 15-year-old food, but she said he refused to accept cooked meals, only agreeing to take packaged snacks, fruit and pizza.

Trevor Thompson, another neighbor who had been helping out the boy, told the station the child was paranoid and feared getting poisoned.

Thompson said the teen knocked on his door one day, asking to borrow a charger. After that, the neighbor said he forged a bond with the boy and started offering him food.

Both Thompson and Chapman said they had no idea there were two younger children living with the 15-year-old.

Thompson recalled that on one occasion he asked the teen if he liked the pizza he had given him.

'And he asked, "What? The first pizza we had?"' Thompson recounted. 'That made me wonder why would he say, "We."'

Erica Chapman said she had been feeding the 15-year-old boy because his mother only rarely showed up to giver him snacks

Chapman speculated that the teen may have concealed the existence of his brothers because he was afraid of being blamed, punished by his mother, or separated from his siblings.

The neighbors said they never called the authorities because they did not grasp the severity of the situation involving the teen, who was described as quiet and discreet.

'I didn't want to push him away by asking questions because I knew he was starving and needed food,' Chapman said.

Alief Independent School District told KTRK that in 2019 and 2020, the school district filed truancy papers against the siblings' mother because two of them were not attending school. The children were last enrolled in May 2020.

All three surviving siblings were taken to a hospital for treatment. They were said to be malnourished and injured, and the 7-year-old had broken bones in his face.

According to investigators, the 15-year-old said that the parents hadnt been living at home for months, effectively abandoning the children to be on their own.

When police arrived to the home on Sunday afternoon, they found the brothers skeletal remains out in the open, KPRC-TV reported.

The two younger boys appeared to be malnourished and showed signs of physical injury, according to law enforcement officials.

It appears they were basically fending for each other, Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez told reporters.

The older sibling was doing the best he could to take care of the others.

Trevor Thompson, who did not want to be shown on camera, also had been helping the teen. He was the boy was paranoid and feared of being poisoned

In an update Sunday, Gonzalez revealed that the children's mother and her boyfriend have been located and interviewed by homicide detectives.

On Monday, the sheriff announced that the couple were released without being arrested or charged with any crime. No explanation was provided for the decision to let the pair go at this time.

In response to a request for comment, a spokesperson for the sheriff's office wrote in an email to DailyMail.com: 'This is an active investigation, with charges pending.'

Authorities have not said whether or not they were looking for the children's biological father.

'Connecting all the dots, it seems they were in there while the body was deteriorating,' the sheriff said.

HCSO is now investigating to determine the circumstances that led to the death of the minor and how long the kids had been alone.

'To ensure the safety of the children, the Department of Family and Protective Services is seeking emergency custody of the three boys,' the agency said in a statement on Monday.

'Child Protective Services does have history with the family, but there was no active CPS investigation at the time the children were discovered alone in their apartment.'

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said a unit was sent to do a welfare check at the residence after receiving a call. The body was not concealed

Residents of the area said that management had been doing inspection rounds in the area for the last couple of weeks.

A neighbor living next door to the siblings told KTRK she had no idea there was anyone occupying that unit, let alone children.

The neighbor in the apartment complex told the station KTRK that she complained for months about a foul odor emanating from the unit where the shocking discovery was made over the weekend.

She said that 13 or 14 months ago, she first noticed a vile odor wafting from what she thought was an abandoned apartment.

The smell was so bad, the woman said, that she would be forced to turn off her air conditioning to prevent it from entering her apartment through the vents.

The neighbor said she complained several times to the building's management about the smell, but it is unclear if anyone had gone to the unit housing the siblings to inspect it.

The children had seemingly been left abandoned by adults for a long period of time and were 'fending for each other'

Homicide investigators along with CPS and Child Abuse investigators are also working on the case

Police said the investigation is still in the preliminary stages .

'Very horrific situation here, very tragic. I've been in this business for a long time and I've never heard of a scenario like this, it really caught me by surprise,' said Gonzalez when addressing the media on Sunday evening.

'We are trying to identify next of kin to determine exactly what happened and how we got to this point...We're going to make sure we conduct a thorough follow-up investigation,' he added.
White students who caused outrage after dressing as what appeared to be 'terrorists' won 'best dressed' as part of Year 12 muck-up day celebrations.

Six students from Gilroy Catholic College in Castle Hill, Sydney, wore the outfits to an end of year picnic for soon-to-be high school graduates on Wednesday.

The male students, who were dressed in Islamic clothing and brandishing water guns were even honoured for their costumes on the day.

Six white students who wore islamic clothing, portraying 'terrorists' won best dressed at Year 12 muck-up day event on Wednesday

'Many students in Year 12 received small prizes as part of the event, including the students involved,' the school told Seven News.

Photos from the last day showed the group of male students dressed in a kaffiyeh - a traditional Arabic headdress - white shirts and pants and sandals.

They held water guns pointed towards other students dressed in banana suits as the two groups posed for a group photo.

In another photo, the six boys posed with an unidentified male in a suit while showing off the water gun and carrying schoolbags.

Principal Cheryl Merryweather maintained the event did not represent the college's values claiming 'a small group of students' showed 'very poor judgement'.

'On behalf of the Gilroy community, I am very sorry that this has happened,' she said.

'The decision to dress this way showed very poor judgment. I also apologise for not directing the students to change out of these costumes.

'At Gilroy College, we take pride in welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds.

An image has surfaced of six male students from Gilroy Catholic College in Castle Hill, portray 'terrorists' at Year 12 muck-up celebrations (pictured)

The school's Principal Cheryl Merryweather has apologised for the incident claiming the event showed 'very poor judgement' and did not represent the College's values

'We know that this incident did not represent our College values and commit ourselves to doing better in the future.'

The student who supplied the image to Seven News described the young men as 'portraying terrorists'.

'As a graduation celebration, a group of primarily Caucasian students dressed up as stereotyped Arabic men, complete with toy guns to portray 'terrorists',' he said.

'This is highly offensive to Middle Eastern individuals, communities, and culture.'

He added 'blatant Islamaphobia' was still rife among schools, saying the muck-up incident was harmful to Islamic and Middle Eastern communities.
Cancer care will inevitably be sacrificed again this winter if Covid cases spiral, MPs were warned today.

Top doctors also claimed survival rates could stall over the next decade due to the impact of coronavirus on the NHS.

During the pandemic thousands of cancer patients had vital treatment cancelled or postponed as staff and hospital beds were diverted towards Covid.

Professor Mike Griffin, a prominent cancer surgeon, admitted he is concerned care 'will take a hit again in the coming weeks over winter' due to the pressures already facing the NHS.

Increasing numbers of people attending A&E, a lack of hospital beds and nursing and social care shortages could cause problems, he said.

Professor Pat Price, a consultant clinical oncologist, told politicians on the Health and Social Care Committee cancer units have been ordered to make sure a tenth of their workforce are available to be redeployed to NHS frontlines this winter.

And MPs heard how oncologists were made to 'clear bedpans' on Covid wards or redeployed as 'mortuary assistants' instead of treating cancer patients.

Meanwhile, a patient revealed she faced 'Covid-related obstacles' when receiving care for stage four breast cancer.

Cancer screening, referrals and treatment services were all disrupted by the Covid pandemic.

During the height of the crisis, from March 2020 to February 2021, 369,000 fewer people than expected were referred to a specialist with suspected cancer, according to the Institute for Public Policy Research.

And the number of chemotherapy treatments also fell by 187,000, while there were 15,000 fewer radiotherapy treatments.

Professor Griffin, also the president of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, said that while the 15 years to 2019 had seen a 10 per cent improvement in cancer survival, it was unlikely to continue over the next decade.

Professor Mike Griffin (pictured left), a cancer surgeon, said he is concerned care 'will take a hit again in the coming weeks over winter' due to the pressures already facing the NHS. And Professor Pat Price (pictured right), a consultant clinical oncologist, said cancer doctors have been told to make sure a tenth of their staff are available to be redeployed to the NHS frontline this winter

Patient reveals her scans were put on hold in first wave... and now she has stage four cancer A patient today revealed her cancer scans were put on hold due to 'Covid-related obstacles' when receiving care for stage four breast cancer. Dr Philippa Hetherington was diagnosed with breast cancer in March 2019 at Churchill Hospital in Oxford. She now has stage four breast cancer that has spread to her brain and lungs, and told MPs on the Health and Social Care Committee for the inquiry into cancer services she had treatments put on hold due to the pandemic. She said she was unable to get a biopsy to find out more information about her cancer 'because essentially all the lung specialists were take up with the Covid peak'. And her cancer doctor moved away from cancer care as the second wave peaked last winter, she said. Dr Hetherington, a lecturer in Modern Eurasian History at University College London, said she was 'very surprised' when her scans and tests were 'put on hold' as cases rose because she believed cancer services 'would be somewhat protected'. Because her doctor was working on the Covid wards, Dr Hetherington said she instead only received phone appointments each chemotherapy cycle to check she was managing her side effects. 'So I kind of didn't have an oncologist to talk to about what was happening and crucially to be making active plans about my treatment for a number of weeks earlier this year,' she said. And when her doctor came back from the frontline, Dr Hetherington said: 'I said were you helping cancer patients with Covid and she said 'no, no, I was emptying bedpans'.' Dr Philippa Hetherington, pictured receiving chemotherapy prior to the pandemic Advertisement

Speaking to MPs, Professor Griffin said cancer surgery is 'back up and running' and close to pre-pandemic levels.

He added: 'I am concerned that with the present wave [of Covid], the increased footfall through A&E, the problem with nursing care, beds being closed and not being available, and social care issues of not getting patients out, the number of beds in the hospitals... that cancer surgery will once again take a hit in coming weeks over winter.'

Rising numbers of patients have been attending A&E in recent weeks, which critics say has been exacerbated by thousands of patients struggling to get GP appointments.

And social care providers had to reject requests to take over care from patients discharged from hospital due to staff shortages, leaving some patients stuck in hospital.

Professor Griffin said more institutions like the Royal Marsden  which are dedicated to cancer diagnosis, treatment, research and education  are needed so cancer care can continue during health crises like the pandemic.

As it stands, cancer treatment usually takes place at NHS hospitals.

Cancer care continued in the US and much of Europe but it was 'paused' in the UK because 'we do not have that set-up', Professor Griffin added.

And key cancer staff could face being shifted to other parts of the NHS this winter to ease pressures.

Professor Price, who is also chair at charity Action Radiotherapy, told MPs: 'The main problem is obviously cancer was not ring fenced and prioritised as it should have been during first wave and still [is not].

'Some of our oncologists were told over the summer to make sure they could redeploy 10 per cent of their staff over the coming winter. This is still going on.'

NHS England has not set out national guidance on cancer staff being redeployed, with its cancer recovery plan setting out that the 'redeployment of staff involved in cancer screening, treatment and care [is] considered only as a very last resort'.

But during earlier waves of the pandemic, 'very specialist' radiotherapy staff were redeployed as mortuary assistants and to remove gowns from people, Professor Price said.

'I know the work needed to be done, but it was just that concept that cancer was okay to leave,' Professor Price added.

She also called for a cancer minister to be appointed, like was done for Covid vaccines, because 'no one has responsibility' for improving cancer survival rates.

And the oncologist said she was concerned by comments from NHS chief executive Amanda Prichard suggesting cancer care was back to normal.

Professor Price said radiotherapy was 'on its knees' in certain places, adding: 'By thinking it's okay, people are going to die.'

And Professor Griffin said improvements to cancer survival rates could stall in the next decade.

He said: 'The good thing about 2019, I can tell you from Office for National Statistics and from CRUK [Cancer Research UK], the previous 15 years had seen, overall from cancer, an improvement in five-year survival and overall survival from all cancers of over 10 per cent.

Dr Philippa Hetherington (pictured left today), a patient who has stage four breast cancer that has spread to her brain and lungs, told MPs that she 'definitely had Covid-related obstacles' when receiving care. The lecturer at University College London (pictured right before her diagnosis) said she was 'very surprised' when her scans and tests were 'put on hold' as cases rose because she believed cancer services 'would be somewhat protected'

No10 needs a cancer minister to increase survival rates, doctors say A cancer minister should be appointed to increase survival rates, a top doctor has said. Professor Pat Price, a cancer consultant and chair at Action Radiotherapy, said no one is responsible for bringing up survival rates. Half of people diagnosed with cancer in England and Wales survive for 10 years or more, according to CRUK, and survival has more than double in the last 40 years. Professor Price referenced the successful rollout of Covid vaccines in England after a minister was appointed, who was able to avoid bureaucracy and 'get on with it'. Speaking to MPs on the Health and Social Care Committee for the inquiry into cancer services, she said: 'If we did it like the vaccines - a minister, get the bureaucracy out the way, get on with it, do it now, whatever it needs to take [and] we did it. 'Cancer, 18 months on, we are still in this mess. 'Its nobody's job, that's the problem and we have to have the endpoint that is cancer survival - not saving money or working within a budget. 'So until we have that radical rethink we are just going round in circles.' Professor Mike Griffin, a cancer surgeon who also spoke to the committee, said improvements to cancer survival rates could stall in the next decade. He said: 'The good thing about 2019, I can tell you from Office for National Statistics and from CRUK [Cancer Research UK], the previous 15 years had seen, overall from cancer, an improvement in five-year survival and overall survival from all cancers of over 10 per cent. 'I can tell you that we are not going to see that in the next 10 years because of what has happened. 'I think that Professor Price is absolutely right to have an aspiration to go back to where we were in 2019, I would love to go back to where we were in 2019, but it still wasn't good enough.' Advertisement

'I can tell you that we are not going to see that in the next 10 years because of what has happened.

'I think that Professor Price is absolutely right to have an aspiration to go back to where we were in 2019, I would love to go back to where we were in 2019, but it still wasn't good enough.'

Half of people diagnosed with cancer in England and Wales survive for 10 years or more, according to CRUK, and survival rates have more than double in the last 40 years.

Dr Philippa Hetherington, a patient who has stage four breast cancer that has spread to her brain and lungs, told MPs that she 'definitely had Covid-related obstacles' when receiving care.

Her cancer doctor was redeployed to the Covid frontline as the second wave was peaking last winter and she could not get a biopsy to find out more information about her cancer 'because essentially all the lung specialists were take up with the Covid peak', she said.

Dr Hetherington, a lecturer in Modern Eurasian History at University College London, said she was 'very surprised' when her scans and tests were 'put on hold' as cases rose because she believed cancer services 'would be somewhat protected'.

An NHS spokesperson said: 'Actually, the vast majority of cancer patients continued to receive care throughout the pandemic and cancer services have remained a priority for the NHS, with more than 350,000 people safely starting treatment since the pandemic begun.

'Plans are in place to manage an increase in pressure and demand this winter and NHS staff are working hard to treat everyone who needs care, so if you are experiencing symptoms of cancer, please come forward and get checked.'

It comes as NHS England figures earlier this month revealed the backlog for hospital care spiralled to another record of 5.72million in August - the most recent month statistics are available for. Hospital bosses said it will take five years to clear the waiting list that amassed during the pandemic.

The data also showed 210,931 urgent cancer referrals were made by GPs in England in August, up 24 per cent from the 170,036 reported in August last year.

The equivalent figure for August 2019, a non-pandemic year, was 200,317.

Urgent referrals where breast cancer symptoms were present  though not initially suspected  were up from 9,486 in August last year to 11,179 in August 2021.

Minesh Patel, head of policy at Macmillan Cancer Support, said at the time: 'There is clearly still a lot of work to be done to get cancer services back on track and tackle the backlog.

'The Government must urgently provide the long-term investment needed to grow and support the cancer workforce, which was severely overstretched even before the pandemic.'

Around 19,500 people in England with cancer have not yet been diagnosed due to Covid-related disruption to the NHS, according to analysis published last month by Institute for Public Policy Research and the CF healthcare consultancy.

And it could take more than a decade to clear this 'missing cancer patients backlog', according to their findings.
Arizona Kyrsten Sinema was hounded by a climate activist upon returning to Washington on Monday  telling the woman not to touch her as she made her way through D.C.'s Reagan National Airport.

Sinema has been a lightning rod for months as she became identified as one of the key holdouts for President Biden's 'Build Back Better' legislation, which is in the process of being whittled down from $3.5 trillion.

In the video, she can be seen walking quickly through the main airport terminal, while being approached by the activist  who walked along with the senator steadily as she tried to ignore her.

'Don't touch me,' Sinema says to her at one point.

'I did not touch you,' responded the activist, who said she was from Tucson, Ariz.

A climate activist confronted Sen. Kyrsten Sinema as she returned to Washington, D.C. Monday

'I know you've met with dozens of lobbyists, and talking to corporate donors about the package, ' said the woman, as Sinema tried to avoid interacting by speaking with one of two men who was walking with her. 'How many times will you meet with constituents,' she asked.

Once again @kyrstensinema ignores concerned advocate fighting for healthcare for her family in Arizona. #BuildBackBetter pic.twitter.com/GK5t5mHCuc  Peoples Watch (@Peoples_Watch_) October 25, 2021

'Your constituents are suffering. What are you doing about climate change,' she asked.

'Sorry about this,' Sinema tells the man as the woman keeps following her.

'I think it's par for the course,' he tells her at one point. Then he appears to try to reassure her: 'Integrity. Character,' he says. Sinema responds by saying: 'I know.'

'Don't touch me,' Sinema told the woman, who replied that she had not

Early this month, activists followed Sinema into a bathroom

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) gets in her car outside the Capitol on October 25, 2021 in Washington, DC

The woman finally dropped off after Sinema got on an escalator. A group called People's Watch posted the exchange on Twitter.

The confrontation came after activists followed Sinema into a bathroom earlier this month and hectored her while filming the encounter.

'We knocked on doors for you to get you elected,' says a woman who filmed it.

Unlike fellow centrist Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Sinema was not in Delaware this past weekend. Manchin met with Biden.

Sens. Joe Manchin (D-WV) (L) and Steve Daines (R-MT) share an umbrella outside the Capitol on October 25, 2021 in Washington, DC. Manchin met with President Biden in Delaware over the weekend

President Biden hopes to see action on his agenda before he leaves for Europe Thursday

Manchin was optimistic as he arrived at the Capitol Tuesday. 'Were working. Hopefully in a very positive direction,' he said.

Manchin has been sharing the parts of the deal he can and cannot live with  and has made clear he does not favor Biden's Clean Energy Performance Program, intended to steer power plants into renewable sources.

In a CNN town hall last week, Biden praised Sinema as being 'very supportive of the environmental agenda,' but confirmed she objects to the bill's provisions to tax the wealthy.

House Ways and Means Chairman Rep. Richard Neal (D-Mass.) said he spoke to Sinema last week by phone for about 30 to 40 minutes, and that she agreed the president's agenda needs to pass. But she was less forthcoming after he pitched corporate tax hikes in he package as non-punitive measures.

'She didn't say no, she just listened to what I had to say,' said Neal.
A cyberattack has forced fuel stations to close across Iran.

The targeted attack shuttered a government system managing fuel subsidies and left angry motorists stranded in long lines at closed stations, weeks before the anniversary of 2019 street protests that followed fuel price hikes.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack but it bears similarities to another months earlier which seemed to directly challenge Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as the country's economy buckles under American sanctions.

Those economic problems worsen as the US and Iran have yet to jointly re-enter Tehran's tattered nuclear deal with world powers.

Iran says it is on high alert for online assaults, which it has blamed in the past on the United States and Israel.

The United States and other Western powers meanwhile have accused Iran of trying to disrupt and break into their networks.

A cyber attack targeted petrol stations on Tuesday across Iran, shutting down a government system managing fuel subsidies and leaving angry motorists stranded in long lines at shuttered stations

Petrol stations across Iran were reportedly out of service and could not sell fuel after the system handling fuel subsidies sales was disrupted in what official sources said was due to a 'cyberattack'

Some petrol stations that accept only cash and are not in the subsidy card network continued pumping fuel

State television quoted an unnamed official in the country's National Security Council acknowledging the cyberattack, hours after it aired images of long lines of cars waiting to fill up in Tehran.

'The disruption at the refuelling system of gas stations... in the past few hours, was caused by a cyberattack,' state broadcaster IRIB said.

'Technical experts are fixing the problem and soon the refuelling process...will return to normal.'

The oil ministry said only sales with smart cards used for cheaper rationed gasoline were disrupted and clients could still buy fuel at higher rates, the ministry's news agency SHANA reported.

Associated Press journalists also saw lines of cars at Tehran stations, with the pumps off and the station closed.

'I have been waiting a couple of hours for the gas stations to reopen so that I can fill up,' said a motorcyclist who gave his name only as Farzin.

'There is no fuel wherever I go.'

Lines of cars and motorbikes were stranded at fuel stations across Iran on Tuesday morning after they were forced to close by a cyberattack

Most Iranians rely on those subsidies to fuel their vehicles, particularly amid the country's economic problems

The semiofficial ISNA news agency, which first called the incident a cyberattack, said it saw those trying to buy fuel with a government-issued card through the machines instead receive a message reading 'cyberattack 64411'.

Most Iranians rely on those subsidies to fuel their vehicles, particularly amid the country's economic problems.

While ISNA did not acknowledge the number's significance, that number is associated with a hotline run through Mr Khamenei's office that handles questions about Islamic law.

ISNA later removed its reports, claiming that it too had been hacked. Such claims of hacking can come quickly when Iranian outlets publish news that angers the theocracy.

Farsi-language satellite channels abroad published videos apparently shot by drivers in Isfahan, a major Iranian city, showing electronic billboards there reading: 'Khamenei! Where is our gas?'

Another said: 'Free gas in Jamaran gas station,' a reference to the home of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

State TV said Oil Ministry officials were holding an 'emergency meeting' to solve the problem.

Some petrol stations that accept only cash and are not in the subsidy card network continued pumping fuel.

State TV said Oil Ministry officials said they were holding an 'emergency meeting' to solve the problem after fuel stations across the country were forced to close

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack but it bears similarities to another months earlier

Iran says it is on high alert for online assaults, such as the cyberattack which hit the country's fuel stations today, which it has blamed in the past on the United States and Israel

The use of the number '64411' mirrored an attack in July targeting Iran's railroad system that also saw the number displayed.

Israeli cybersecurity firm Check Point later attributed the train attack to a group of hackers that called themselves Indra, after the Hindu god of war.

Indra previously targeted firms in Syria, where President Bashar Assad has held on to power through Iran's intervention in his country's grinding war.

The disruptions came ahead of the second anniversary of an increase in fuel prices in November 2019 which led to widespread street protests in which hundreds were reported to have been killed by security forces.
A paedophile who was locked up for having sex with a 14-year-old student told her friends her 'hormonal and horny' pupils would flirt with her, reports say.

Fatinah Hossain, 25, from Horsham, West Sussex, allegedly bragged how members of her class would chat her up at the school.

The 'infatuated' teaching assistant was jailed last week for grooming and having intercourse with the teenager over several months.

She claimed she was pregnant after the boy tried to end the illicit relationship and offered to pay him to drop the charges against her.

After being released on bail in June 2020, Hossain launched a campaign of harassment against the boy and his family in a bid to stop the police probe.

Fatinah Hossain (pictured), 25, allegedly bragged how members of her class would chat her up at the school in West Sussex

The 'infatuated' teaching assistant (pictured) was jailed last week for grooming and having intercourse with the teenager over several months

She claimed she was pregnant after the boy tried to end the illicit relationship and offered to pay him to drop the charges against her. Pictured: A police mugshot of Hossain

A source who knew her told the Sun: 'You can imagine what kids at school at that age could be like so it seemed like a joke.

'It's disgusting looking back now knowing what she then did.

'She had a manipulative trait and could also be hot headed, especially if she felt under attack. She seemed sexually naive at times.'

The insider added that Hossain became 'infatuated with and obsessive' over those she fell in love with.

Hossain tried to manipulate other children with threats made against at least one youngster to warn them off speaking to officers.

She also threatened the boy and his family using fake names and added she would pay him to 'drop the charges'.

After being released on bail in June 2020, Hossain launched a campaign of harassment against the boy and his family in a bid to stop the police probe

After being charged and appearing before magistrates in October 2020, Hossain (pictured) tried to set up a member of the victim's family by pretending to an underage teenager online

After being charged and appearing before magistrates in October 2020, Hossain tried to set up a member of the victim's family by pretending to be an underage teenager online.

She set up a string of fake social media accounts using different names - including one pretending to be a 14-year-old girl.

Hossain sent messages to an adult member of the boy's family to try to get him sacked from his job and made false reports to police to try and get him arrested.

Her 'relentless' campaign continued until March this year when police were shown evidence the allegations were false.

Hossain was charged with perverting the course of justice along with one count of sexual activity with the boy while in a position of trust.

She had been working as a teaching assistant and cover teacher at the school in West Sussex.

Hossain was sent to prison for five years and four months when she appeared at Brighton Crown Court last Thursday.

She will also be registered as a sex offender indefinitely.

Judge Jeremy Gold said she had 'embarked on quite a remarkable campaign of harassment' that was 'relentless, wide-ranging and malicious' following the 'persistent nature of penetrative [sexual] activity over time'.

She has also been issued with a restraining order to last indefinitely, banning her from any contact with the teenage boy and several others, as well as stopping her from entering certain areas of Horsham.

Hossain will be on a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 10 years after she is released from prison.

Hossain (pictured) will be on a Sexual Harm Prevention Order for 10 years after she is released from prison

Detective Constable Leigh Rankin, of Sussex Police, said that Hossain had spun a 'web of lies and manipulation'.

DC Rankin added: 'This was a prolonged and distressing campaign and we are glad that justice has now been done for the boy and the several other people who became entrapped in Hossain's web of lies and manipulation.

'Hossain was first arrested in June 2020 following a report that she had groomed and had sex with a 14-year-old boy from a school in Horsham where she was working as a study supervisor and cover teacher.

'A sexual relationship continued for several months during which she continued to manipulate the boy's emotions, including claiming that she was pregnant after he had tried to end the relationship.

'Hossain was initially released on bail for further investigation. Following this the victim, his family and friends suffered a prolonged and complex campaign of behaviour against them in an attempt to derail the investigation and avoid justice.'

DC Rankin said Hossain tried to manipulate other children and threatened at least one not to speak to police.

The officer said: 'Using fake social media accounts Hossain attempted to manipulate other children, with threats being made against at least one other child should they speak to the police.

'Through fake names she made significant threats of harm to the boy and his family and said she'd pay him to 'drop the charges'.

'Hossain was charged with offences in October 2020 and was bailed by magistrates. She then created a number of fake social media accounts using different names including that of a 14-year-old girl.

'Using this particular account, she fabricated messages between her and an adult family member of the boy.

'She then used these fake accounts in an attempt to have the family member lose his job. She then went on to make multiple false reports to the police from further false accounts in an attempt to get the adult family member arrested.

'Hossain continued to attempt to make false reports to police until March 2021, when evidence was received to show that all the allegations against the family were falsified by her. This led to her being further charged and remanded until she was convicted.'
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Professor Sir Andrew Pollard said it was not helpful to compare the UK's infection rate to other countries

It is unfair to 'bash' Britain for having higher Covid infections than the EU because it is testing up to ten times more people than other countries, an eminent Oxford University expert has claimed.

Official figures show the UK currently has the highest infection rate on the continent, except for a few countries in eastern Europe.

But it is carrying out the second highest number of swabs for the virus, according to surveillance data. Austria is the only nation undertaking more tests per head.

Sir Andrew Pollard, who helped design the AstraZeneca vaccine, warned today it was not helpful to compare Britain's Covid infection rate to other countries.

He told a Parliamentary committee: 'Im not trying to deny that theres not plenty of transmission because there is, but its the comparisons that are problematic.

'If you look across Western Europe, we have about 10 times more tests done each day than some other countries, this is per head of population. So we really have to always adjust by looking at the data.'

When the UK is compared to other major EU nations in terms of test positivity  the number of cases per test carried out  it is on par with its neighbours.

Britain had a positivity rate of 4.6 per cent in the week to October 17, the latest available. This was below Germany (8.3 per cent) and the Netherlands (6.6 per cent) among others, but above Spain (two per cent), France (1.2 per cent) and Italy (0.7 per cent).

Britain is also a leader in terms of Covid hospitalisations and deaths but experts tell MailOnline these are also impacted by increased testing.

They say when excess mortality is considered  the number of deaths compared to the number expected at a certain time  Britain consistently has one of the lowest rates.

POSITIVITY RATE: Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands are among the European countries to have higher test positivity rates than the UK

CASE RATE: This graph shows the proportion of people testing positive for the virus per million people in Europe plus the US. The UK has the continent's highest infection rate except for a few countries in eastern Europe

TESTING: But Britain is also carrying out the second highest number of Covid tests per 1,000 people on the continent, with only Austria undertaking more swabs

HOSPITAL ADMISSION RATE: Professor Pollard said it was better to look at hospitalisations. But these also show Britain has a higher rate compared to other European countries

DEATH RATE: And figures for Covid deaths show the UK has a higher number per million people compared to its European neighbours

VACINNATION RATE: The UK has a similar vaccination rate to European countries, although some in western Europe have steamed ahead after approving vaccines for under-18s earlier than Britain

Europeans have been looking over at the UK with concern, trying to fathom why the 'sick man of Europe' has such a high infection rate.

But there are early signs other countries are catching up, with Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium all starting to see cases soar.

Professor Pollard told the Science and Technology committee: 'We do have a lot of transmission at the moment, but its not right to say that those rates are really telling us something that we can compare internationally.

'A lot of our policy decisions should be very much focused on what we think is right for this country, not by saying other countries have much less (cases), because its very difficult to make those assessments.

UK didn't focus enough on airborne spread at start of pandemic, adviser admits Britain didn't focus enough on airborne Covid transmission at the beginning of the pandemic, a Government adviser today admitted. Professor Andrew Curran, chief scientific adviser for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)  which issues the Government's official workplace guidance, told MPs Covid advice may have overemphasised surface cleanliness, instead of the need for proper ventilation. Speaking to the Science and Technology Committee, he said the recommendations have shifted as experts learn more about the virus. Top scientists initially feared the coronavirus was spread mainly via surfaces such as door handles, post boxes and desks at the start of the crisis last year. It led to Government-issued guidance to businesses which instructed them to spend thousands of pounds on cleaning products to wipe down PCs and door handles for when employees returned to the workplace. But research has since shown the risk of transmission from touching contaminated surfaces is low, nailing aerosol droplets as the main way the virus transmits between people. Professor Curran today said Britain should have focused more on stopping airborne transmission at work. He added that thousands of offices which have been spot-checked by the HSE have not been following all of the agency's guidance, which includes advice on cleaning, hygiene and ventilation. Advertisement

'If you make the adjustment of cases in relation to the rates of testing, and look at test positivity, currently Germany has the highest test positivity rate in Europe.

'So I think when we look at these data its really important not to sort of bash the UK with a very high case rate, because actually its partly related to very high testing.'

Figures from Oxford University-based research platform OurWorldInData  which has been tracking the outbreak since March last year  show Britain still has a higher Covid hospitalisation and death rate than its main European neighbours.

The UK's hospitalisation rate was 92.8 per million people in the week to October 17, the latest available. But in France it was 18.2 and in Spain it was 4.56.

Data for Germany only goes up to the week ending October 10, when it had an admission rate of 21.7.

In terms of Covid deaths, the data website says the UK is currently recording 1.99 deaths involving the virus a day per million people.

For comparison, in Germany it is 0.73, while in France and Spain it is as low as 0.48 and 0.47 respectively.

Spain and France have a higher proportion of their population double-vaccinated than the UK, at 79 per cent and 67 per cent respectively, while Germany has a similar level to the country, around 66 per cent.

Professor Pollard said hospital admissions in the UK were now a 'quite a different story from last year', with the vast majority of people going in having shorter hospital stays and much milder disease.

He said many of these were people with underlying health conditions that were 'destabilised by having a relatively mild Covid infection'.

Physicians see this every winter with other viruses, Sir Andrew said, adding 'that people who are frail with various health conditions will be tipped over the edge as a result of those viral infections and Covid is doing that as well'.

He warned the NHS was 'incredibly fragile' but 'that fragility is only contributed a small amount by Covid and so vaccinating is not going to suddenly make the NHS not be on its knees, where it is at the moment'.

The eminent scientist said the pandemic has had a major impact on waiting lists and while vaccines for the unvaccinated would make a big difference for intensive care, 'this still doesnt change the overall needle on where we are with a very stressed NHS'.

Sir Andrew said ensuring less transmission would cut intensive care admissions 'but in the end the unvaccinated will meet the virus it just might not be today, it might be next year'.

Turning to the impact of testing in schools on high case numbers, he said: 'I think when you look in the community, for example, we see these very high rates of transmission, but in some parts of the country the vast majority of those come from very effective testing in schools, and so were picking up a lot of very mild infections.

'We know from all the previous studies done that children contribute a relatively small amount to adult transmission, so those very high numbers in some regions is reflecting something which is transmission amongst children  much less importance than transmission to older adults.'

Asked if people are looking at the 'wrong thing' by focusing on cases, Sir Andrew said that even with deaths, they are recorded as being within 28 days of a positive Covid result.

When transmission is high, lots of people will have died from other causes, he said.

He said the raw data was 'quite misleading' though that 'doesnt mean there isnt Covid transmission and people get hospitalised with it'.

Downing Street said it was 'too early' to draw conclusions from the latest figures which suggest a potential levelling off of coronavirus cases.

The Prime Ministers official spokesman said: 'Its always encouraging when you see reductions like that and including, I believe, a levelling off of admissions.

'But its too early to draw full conclusions from the case rates and we would continue to urge the public to abide by the guidance as set out and those eligible to get booster doses.

'Prevalence remains relatively high even if it has dropped off to a certain extent.

'There isnt anything in the statistics currently to suggest a move to Plan B but it is too early to draw conclusions from the recent few days statistics which has shown drops in cases.'

Plan B could see mandatory facemasks indoors brought back, guidance to work form home and the use of Covid passports.

Later, Prof Pollard said there has been a lot of infection in teenagers already and so, for a lot of people, having a single dose of a vaccine was actually like having a second dose.
A North Dakota man who was high on meth when he 'strangled and stabbed more than 20 times' a 14-year old girl pleaded guilty to the heinous attack.

Arthur Kollie, 22, entered an Alford plea Monday in the fatal assault on Jupiter Paulsen outside a Party City in Fargo on June 4.

With the plea, Kollie maintains his innocence but acknowledges there is enough evidence for a conviction. He had initially pleaded not guilty on felony counts of murder, robbery and aggravated assault.

The Fargo man faces life in prison but no sentencing date has yet been set.

North Dakota man Arthur Kollie, 22, pleaded guilty to the killing of a 14-year-old girl on Monday who had been 'strangled and stabbed more than 20 times'

Jupiter Paulsen, 14, was seen being strangled by Kollie outside of a Fargo store on June 4

The 30 minute attack took place outside of a Party City store in Fargo

Kollie was spotted strangling Paulsen at the discount store by sanitation worker Patrick Peterson.

The attack lasted about 30 minutes and Peterson said that he saw Kollie with one hand on Paulsen's nose and the other on her throat, according to Fargo Police Detective Mark Voigtschild.

After Kollie ran away, Peterson said he began life-saving efforts and called 911.

She died four days later at the Sanford Medical Center.

An autopsy said the cause of death was asphyxiation by strangulation complicated by multiple sharp-force injuries.

The girl was stabbed more than 20 times, according to court documents.

Paulsen's autopsy said that her death was caused by asphyxiation by strangulation complicated by multiple sharp-force injuries

Kollie entered an Alford plea with the Cass County District Court that will maintain his innocence but acknowledge there is enough evidence for conviction

Kollie was later found and arrested that same day in downtown Fargo.

Surveillance footage captured Kollie walking in the shower area of a gas station without a shirt after Paulsen was murdered.

He was also seen walking into a local Walmart and stealing clothes off of the rack to change out of his blood-soaked clothes.

Police said that they found his bloody pants and shoes in the store's bathroom as well as his shirt and Paulsen's identification in a dumpster near a Home Depot.

They had also found his knife in a separate dumpster.

Kollie told investigators that he suffers from anxiety, depression and multiple personality disorder and had used methamphetamine the day of the slaying, according to court documents.

Kollie claimed that he did not remember attacking Paulsen when arrested by police even though he was found with fresh cuts on his hands

The documents also said that he had claimed he did not remember attacking Paulsen even though he had fresh cuts on his hands.

Investigators have found no evidence that Kollie and the girl knew each other.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges made against him in Cass County District Court before he changed his mind after reappearing in court about a half hour later.

The victim's father Robert Paulsen, was present at Kollie's hearing, claimed he was unsure as to why his daughter's killer had changed his mind so quickly.

'Even the police didn't get into the room to hear it. The prosecutors barely got into the room by the end of it,' Paulsen told The Forum.

'In all honesty, I want this over with, but I know I have to keep my guard up because I know it's not over yet.

'He went from saying guilty to not guilty. I'm wondering what is the hidden agenda with this.'

Kollie's defense attorney Nicholas Thorton has declined to comment on why his client changed the verdict. His next hearing is scheduled for November 3.
Furious parents and conservatives have told Barack Obama to apologize to a Loudoun County, Virginia, couple and their daughter who was raped by a skirt-wearing boy in a school bathroom in May, after the former President called the row encircling it 'fake outrage' and a 'phony trumped-up culture wars'.

On Monday, juvenile court judge Pamela Brooks ruled that the boy - who has not been named - did force himself on the 15-year-old girl on May 28 in the bathroom at Stone Ridge High School in Leesburg, Virginia.

Loudoun County Schools hasn't commented on the verdict. Students walked out of their classrooms on Tuesday in a show of 'solidarity' for the victim.

Some stood in front of their school, chanting: 'Loudoun County Protects Rapists!'

The case drew national attention because the boy was wearing a skirt at the time and the girls' parents - Scott and Jessica Smith - said it was what they feared might happen more if Loudoun County Schools starts allowing boys into girls' bathrooms frequently as part of a progressive transgender policy.

Republican Gubernatorial candidate Glenn Youngkin has harnessed part of his education platform in the case, saying: 'What tragedy next awaits our children?'

On Sunday, Obama was campaigning for Youngkin's opponent - Democratic gubernatorial candidate Terry McAuliffe - when he attacked Youngkin's general position on education, the Capitol riot, and policing.

He said, in part: 'We don't have time to be wasting on these phony, trumped up culture wars. This fake outrage that the right-wing media peddles to juice their ratings.

'The fact he's willing to go along with it, instead if talk about serious problems that affect serious people, that's a shame. That's not what this election is about. That's not what you need, Virginia.

'We should be doing more to support people who are educating our kids.'

On Sunday, Obama was campaigning for Youngkin's opponent - Democratic gubernatorial candidate Terry McAuliffe - when he attacked Youngkin's general position on education

In light of the judge's ruling on Monday - that the boy did forcibly sodomize the girl and force an act of fellatio - many are demanding that the former President apologize to the girl's parents.

'Barack Obama owes the family of the young girl who was raped by a trans girl in a skirt an apology,' said one critic.

Juvenile Court judge Pamela Brooks agreed with the girl and her parents, saying there was enough evidence to prove the teen boy - who is also charged in another sexual assault - forced himself on her

'You have the former President of the United States, who never hesitated to highlight abuses and other civil rights violations when he was President and it was politically expedient.

'Now that it has the potential to backfire against the leftists trying to move out society dramatically to the left, it's inconvenient for him to recognize it and to speak honest truth to power,' Ian Prior, former Trump senior official in the Trump Department of Justice, told DailyMail.com on Tuesday morning.

'I don't think Barack Obama has a clue what's going on in Loudoun County Public Schools.

'He demonstrated just how clueless he was by making this statement. It's clear that all the star power coming in for Terry McAuliffe is reading off the same, deceptive page of sheet music with talking points designed to deceive people as to what's really going on in Virginia public schools, and specifically, in Loudoun County,' he added.

The teenage girl's father Scott Smith was dragged out of a meeting on June 22 after hearing teachers from the woke Loudoun County school board claim they'd received no reports of sexual assaults involving students in the bathrooms, when less than a month earlier, his daughter had reported just that.

Scott Smith, the victim's father, was pictured with a bloody mouth, being dragged out of a school board meeting on June 22 - a month after the attack - after listening to school officials say no one had been sexually assaulted in the bathrooms when that's what his daughter had reported the previous month

The victim's parents were ridiculed by the left after her father Scott Smith was pictured being dragged out of a school board meeting on June 22. They say they now feel vindicated

Superintendent Scott Ziegler sent an email to parents on the day it happened to say the school was investigating, but told the room on June 22: 'To my knowledge, we dont have any record of assaults occurring in our restrooms.'

On Monday, juvenile court judge Pamela Brooks agreed with the charges - forcible sodomy and forcible fellatio - which is the juvenile court equivalent of a conviction.

The boy, who has not been named because he is a minor, will return to court on November 15 for sentencing. He has also been charged with sexually assaulting another girl at a different school in the same Virginia school district in October.

Loudoun County Schools hasn't commented on the verdict.

The girl's parents now say they feel 'relieved' after but are demanding an apology from the National School Board Association for its characterization of parents who angrily protest woke school policies as domestic terrorists.

The NSBA has apologized for threatening to mobilize the FBI to prosecute parents after being asked to do so by the country's increasingly liberal public school system, but Smith says they haven't gone far enough.

He is threatening to sue the NSBA for defamation unless it apologizes directly to him.

Superintendent Scott Ziegler claimed on June 22 that he'd received 'no report' of a sexual assault in the school bathrooms. On May 28, the day it happened, he sent this email to colleagues confirming that it had been reported. 'This afternoon, a female student alleged that a male student sexually assaulted her in the restroom'

Students walked out of classrooms in multiple schools in the district as part of the coordinated protest

Students walked out of Loudoun County public schools on Tuesday in protest against the county's handling of a rape allegation after a judge found the boy accused guilty

After Monday's verdict, the family released a statement through their attorney, Virginia State Senator Bill Stanley, saying: 'We are greatly relieved that justice was served today.

Loudoun County Schools Superintendent Scott Ziegler apologized for failing to provide a 'safe' environment for students

'No one should have to endure what this family has endured, and now their focus is completely upon their daughters health and safety as she progresses forward with her life.'

Last week, after the NSBA's apology, he said: 'I am a father who cares deeply for his daughter, who would go to the ends of the earth to protect both her and other students who attend public school in Loudoun County from suffering what she has suffered due to the misguided social policies adopted by the school board.

'I am not a "domestic terrorist".'

'The NSBA defamed me, impugning my reputation and that of other concerned parents who dared challenge our local school board. I am owed an apology and I deserve one.

'I demand the NSBA retract its statement that I am a "domestic terrorist", or I will have no choice but to seek a court to do it for them.'

The juvenile court trial heard how the girl and boy were friends and had previously 'hooked up' with her consent, but that on May 28, he attacked her.

He also told detectives in some of his early statements that he 'stopped' because he knew he was 'hurting the girl', but also claimed the sexual assault only happened when his 'knee length skirt got caught on his watch'.

The pair chatted daily on an app called Discord, according to the boy's attorney, and regularly discussed sex. They had met up in the girl's bathroom at Stone Bridge High School before, he said, to fool around.

The boy's attorney, William Mann, argued that because they'd had consensual sex before - in the bathrooms - he was reasonable in assuming consent on May 28.

The judge disagreed. The boy is also facing another sexual battery charge on a different girl at a different school in the district. That case has not been resolved yet, and he will return to court on November 15 for sentencing.

The case became the searing tip of a raging debate in Loudoun County over transgender students' rights and parents' freedom of speech.
An airport check on Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi four days before his deadly attack could have sparked a security probe which would have led police to his bomb, an inquiry today heard.

The Manchester-born terror attacker arrived back in the UK from a five-week trip to Libya on May 18, 2017, just days before the bombing, which killed 22 people and injured hundreds of others.

But officials did not question Abedi on his arrival in the UK, because, though he had previously been a 'subject of interest' to MI5, he was not under investigation at the time.

Today a senior MI5 officer told the inquiry into the attack that a 'port stop' - where someone is questioned and searched at the UK border - could have led to clues about Abedi's bomb plot.

He said it was 'conceivable' that Abedi could have then been placed under the watch of a surveillance team - who would have spotted his purchase of bombing-making materials.

However the MI5 officer, referred to as Witness J, said security officials had a 'blurred picture at that time' and 'did not conclude we had intelligence related to attack planning'.

Pete Weatherby QC, representing some of the bereaved families, asked the officer: 'It's certainly possible you would have observed slightly unusual behaviour at the airport then followed it on and, as I say, he would have led you to the bomb.

'If he had been stopped by police, putting that together, there's a chance it would have stopped him carrying out the plot?'

Witness J replied: 'Conceivably, yes. To offer some context, for us, or the police in combination, to follow the trail would have required us to be running a very high priority investigation.

An airport check on Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi (pictured) four days before his deadly attack could have sparked a security probe which would have led police to find his suicide bomb, an inquiry today heard

Witness J said questioning Abedi at the airport could have 'conceivably' led to Abedi being placed under the watch of a surveillance team - who would have spotted his purchase of bombing-making materials. Pictured: The kitchen lounge of the apartment where Abedi stayed in the four days before the attack

'It would require almost certainly surveillance, normally allocated high priority investigations.

'We had fragments of what we know now. We had a blurred picture at that time and we did not conclude we had intelligence related to attack planning.'

Witness J has told the inquiry it would have been a 'better course of action' for Abedi to have been subject to a port stop, but maintains this was a 'reasonable judgment' and may not have stopped the bombing anyway.

Manchester Arena bomber Salman Abedi was in contact with EIGHT MI5 'suspects' in the years before carrying out terror attack, inquiry hears The Manchester Arena bomber had contact with eight individuals who were 'subjects of interest' to MI5, the inquiry into the terror attack heard yesterday. The revelation brought accusations from lawyers for the families of the blast victims that the intelligence agency had failed them. 'You failed to protect these families and the public from a bomber,' John Cooper QC told an MI5 witness. 'On the most straightforward grounds, you failed.' It came after the inquiry heard that the bomber, Salman Abedi, is 'likely' to have been indoctrinated into Islamist extremism by his own father. The director-general of Counter Terrorism at MI5, known only as Witness J, told how those such as Abedi, 22, with a Libyan background, were exposed to individuals with extremist tendencies from their parents' generation. These include former members of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group  which fought against Colonel Gaddafi's regime and has been linked to Al Qaeda  who moved to Britain. Abedi's father Ramadan has been linked with LIFG. 'Salman Abedi was assessed as likely his extreme views were informed by his father, Ramadan Abedi,' Witness J said. Asked by Paul Greaney QC, for the inquiry, if it was assessed that Ramadan Abedi was involved with the LIFG, the spy said: 'I'm afraid I am not able to go into that in open [hearings].' The eight 'subjects of interest' included one who was in Libya and one in prison. Some were direct contacts while others were indirect. The MI5 witness did not name Abdalraouf Abdallah, a convicted terrorist recruiter whose name was revealed by the Press, and was visited by Abedi twice in prison. The second visit occurred on the day Abedi ordered his first bomb-making chemicals and he also exchanged calls using an illicit phone on the day they were delivered. Sir John Saunders, the inquiry chairman has ruled that there is 'centrally important material' relevant to the question of whether MI5 could have prevented the attacks that cannot be revealed to the public. The inquiry has previously heard there were 18 missed opportunities when the security services could have stopped Salman Abedi. Advertisement

But inquiry chairman Sir John Saunders questioned whether this was a 'big leap of faith' by MI5, and whether Abedi might have been 'put off' if he had been stopped and suspected MI5 'are on to me'.

Witness J said post-attack reviews concluded a 'successful pre-emption of the attack would have been unlikely'.

He added: 'I support that judgment because I have seen the material. The planning was well under way by the time he went to Libya.'

The chairman said he would be 'looking critically' at the issue during 'closed' hearings, where families of the bereaved, their lawyers and the press will be excluded while matters of national security are examined.

The inquiry heard how Manchester-born Abedi had left the UK with his family on a one-way ticket to Libya on April 15 2017.

But he returned, carrying only hand luggage, five weeks later - four days before he carried out the atrocity.

On arrival in the UK, Abedi, 22, immediately bought a new phone and SIM card at Manchester Airport and took 'anti-surveillance' measures to stay 'off grid' by getting a bus and taxi - going straight to where he had left the bomb components.

Abedi was a closed subject of interest (SOI) for MI5, meaning he was not under investigation and was one of 20,000 such closed SOIs at the time, with the security services also running 3,000 'live' anti-terror investigations.

Witness J said MI5 was under pressure with the workload increasing as 850 UK nationals travelled to Syria, where so-called Islamic State had established its caliphate, with fighting continuing in neighbouring Iraq, and Libya also descending into civil war.

MI5 received information on Abedi in mid-2016 but it was not examined until April 2017, a process that was overtaken by the attack on May 22 before the case could be re-opened.

The chairman also asked whether a decision not to put Abedi on a list of suspects who should be stopped at the port was a deliberate one or that it was 'simply overlooked.'

Addressing Witness J, he asked: 'An investigation might have started into Salman Abedi and no one can say this would stop what was happening but on the face of it, just speeding up Clematis might have produced a different result and a port stop might have produced a different result?'

'Yes, I accept that,' the witness said.

The plot took place over a 'significant period of time' and involved enough activity that MI5 could have spotted it if they had been investigating, the inquiry heard.

Mr Weatherby asked the witness: 'Unlike some plots this took place over a significant period of time, a number of months, there were a significant number of transactions?'

They included buying pre-cursor chemicals, purchasing a car to store the chemicals, renting two different flats, one to manufacture the explosives and one to put the bomb together.

'If it had been investigated, there were things to spot?' Mr Weatherby asked.

The officer said: 'Yes, if Salman Abedi and Hashem Abedi had been investigated by MI5 for all those months, detection of the plot would be far more likely - but at the time [Salman] wasn't someone who was under investigation.'

Salman Abedi was seen 'adjusting wiring' underneath his clothes in the moments leading up to the devastating terror attack which left 22 people dead on May 22, 2017

A total of 22 people, many of them children, died in the terror attack at the Manchester Arena on May 22 2017. Pictured: Armed police stand guard outside the arena following the terror attack in 2017

The terror attack claimed 22 lives at Manchester Arena and injured hundreds more

He insisted: 'The judgement we made not to investigate him, was sensible.'

Mr Atkinson said consideration should have been given to referring Abedi to the Prevent de-radicalisation programme, even after his case had been closed.

By 2015, two years before the attack, Abedi had been in contact with three different MI5 'subjects of interest', two with connections to Syria and one to Libya.

Both his father, Ramadan, and his older brother Ismail, had been 'port stopped' and their phones examined and found with radical material, Ramadan in 2011 and Ismail in 2015, the inquiry heard.

Abedi had also been involved in anti-social behaviour involving the police, including letting off fireworks sometime before 2013 and came from an area in South Manchester where 16 individuals had joined terrorist organisations.

The Channel referral programme highlighted involvement with petty crime, peer pressure and social pressure as potential factors for radicalisation.

Mr Atkinson asked: 'In this context, shouldn't he at least have been considered for referral?'

But Witness J said: 'If we were looking at closed subjects of interest, whether any should be referred after the point of closure, we would be swamped, that work would stop us doing other things. It would be my view that that would be a disproportionate use of time.'

Salman Abedi had first been on the MI5 radar in 2010, seven years before the attack, he was made a 'subject of interest' in 2014, and was mentioned on several occasions in reporting to MI5 from mid-2015 onwards, including information about his support for ISIS.

On two separate occasions in the months before the attack, MI5 received intelligence that Abedi was involved in terrorism but dismissed it as criminal activity.

The intelligence is said to have been 'highly relevant' to the planned attack but the significance was not 'fully appreciated' at the time. A meeting was due to be held about him, nine days after the attack.

Earlier, the inquiry heard that Abedi was known to have associated with at least eight other suspect individuals linked to terrorism, and the area of south Manchester where he lived had been identified as having a potential problem with extremism and radicalisation.

The inquiry is looking at all the background to the attack, which was carried out by Abedi with the help of his younger brother, Hashem, who was jailed for life for his part in the plot.

The hearing continues.
An eco-zealot who has been blocking roads in central London is a former BBC technology chief who lives in a 900,000 home and once worked on a 'green' initiative with a state-owned business in China.

Tim Lancaster, who is a current director of a climate change research group due to take part in COP26, was pictured yesterday as he and his teacher wife Louise, 56, desperately tried to hold back a car during an Insulate Britain protest near Southwark Bridge.

MailOnline can reveal that Mr Lancaster, 54, built links in China while he had a high-flying post with the Carbon Trust, which fights climate change.

Mrs Lancaster left her job as a teacher to spend more time on climate activism, and has been a familiar figure at Insulate Britain protests in recent weeks.

She has repeatedly held up traffic while facing the ire of angry motorists, despite being arrested on several occasions, and ignoring a series of High Court orders banning her from blocking roads.

But it is believed that yesterday was the first time that her husband was photographed joining her in a protest.

Mr Lancaster, who lives with his wife in a 900,000 house in Grantchester, near Cambridge, was head of technology for BBC Worldwide for nine years before joining the Carbon Trust in 2005.

He spent eight years at the taxpayer-funded organisation, initially as Operations Director before becoming its director in China working more than 5,000 miles away in Beijing.

Tim Lancaster, who is a current director of a climate change research group due to take part in COP26, was pictured yesterday as he and his teacher wife Louise, 56, (both pictured) desperately tried to hold back a car during an Insulate Britain protest near Southwark Bridge

Mr Lancaster, who lives with his wife in a 900,000 house in Grantchester, near Cambridge, was head of technology for BBC Worldwide for nine years before joining the Carbon Trust in 2005

A notice revealing a High Court order on the home of Tim and Louise Lancaster

Mr Lancaster spent nearly three years in his role in China between 2008 and 2011, at a time when the one-party state was investing heavily in CO2-belching coal fired power stations to fuel its economic growth, and becoming notorious for human rights abuses.

He was responsible for setting up the organisation's first office in China and 'developed a joint venture with a Chinese state-owned company to invest in low carbon technologies', according to an online biography.

Mr Lancaster reveals his work in China for the Carbon Trust in his LinkedIn profile, saying he 'negotiated, setup and steered a venture capital company involving the Chinese and UK governments'.

He adds in his profile: 'When UK politics changed, I sourced a Singaporean partner, renegotiated the JV and doubled its valuation.

'Designed and led a number of projects that won Foreign Office funding. Presented on carbon emission reduction at the Shanghai Expo and at conferences across China. Provided newspaper and radio interviews.'

Mr Lancaster spent nearly three years in his role in China between 2008 and 2011, at a time when the one-party state was investing heavily in CO2-belching coal fired power stations to fuel its economic growth, and becoming notorious for human rights abuses

Louise Lancaster, a teacher, and another woman stand on Marsham Street in Westminster as they protest outside the Home Office on Friday

Mr Lancaster also spent just over a year as Transition Director at the Carbon Trust before leaving the organisation in 2011.

He is currently Managing Director Cloud for the technology company Digital Space which manages cloud storage platforms for public and private organisations across the UK.

Mr Lancaster also serves as a board member of the international not for profit network Climate Strategies, which boasts of having 'an expansive network of world-leading researchers as members'.

The organisation is hosting a series of meetings at the upcoming COP26 climate change conference of political leaders which starts next week in Glasgow.

The Climate Strategies website states that it 'works at the science-policy interface, advancing climate policy through meaningful interactions between decision makers and researchers across Europe and internationally.'

Mrs Lancaster was pictured being arrested on September 20 during a protest blocking the M25, and was then seen again two days later taking part in another demonstration outside the Home Office, where she wore a placard, saying: 'Louise Lancaster, teacher & mother, best investment to reduce CO2, Insulate Britain'

She was also one of the two women activists who were filmed sitting in the road last week when they were 'nudged' along by a Range Rover driven by furious mother Sherrilyn Speid, 34, who had her school run delayed in Thurrock, Essex.

Mrs Lancaster was one of the two women activists who were filmed sitting in the road last week when they were 'nudged' along by a Range Rover driven by furious mother Sherrilyn Speid, 34, who had her school run delayed in Thurrock, Essex

MailOnline can reveal Mr and Mrs Lancaster live in a cul-de-sac in Grantchester, the idyllic village featured in the ITV detective drama of the same name. Their house is around 400 yards from the home of Tory peer and novelist Jeffrey Archer.

The couple are known in the village as dedicated eco-campaigners, and drive a white Renault Zoe electric hatchback car worth around 20,000 which was sitting on their driveway today.

A sign stuck to their door said: 'A package has been left that contains an Order of the High Court and you need to read it immediately and take legal advice. If you need another copy please call Mr Abbey Ameen of Transport for London.'

The couple's son Tristan, 24, who answered the door, said: 'They are not around.'

When a journalist pointed to the note on the door, he added: 'They do that every day.'

He admitted that his mother had been arrested a number of times and said that she and his father were staying down in London 'for a bit'.

Tristan confirmed his mother was a teacher, but said: 'She had to leave her job for a bit just because schools are concerned about activism. You would think they would be open to it.'

Speaking of his father, he added: 'For a long time, he has been very well informed on climate issues'.

Tristan also defended his parents' green credentials, saying they only had the one car. He added: 'If we need to do long journeys, we ride share with other people.'

He claimed that the family had also spent money on trying to improve the energy efficiency of their house, putting in extra insulation in the attic.

Tristan said: 'It takes a lot to insulate a place like this  but we have done everything we can to improve the energy rating.'

Neighbours refused to comment about the couple. One said: 'I don't think anyone in the street will speak to you.'

But one villager said: 'Tim and Louise are well known around here for their environmental campaigning. People just let them get on with it.'
An actor with a bit-part on Rust says cameras were protected from gunfire by plastic shields - but that actors were left to fend for themselves before Alec Baldwin shot and killed the movie's cinematographer.

Ian Hudson said that there were protective barriers put in place for the camera crew and their equipment on the set where Baldwin accidentally shot and killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

'Everyone on the camera crew was protected by shields  and the camera was protected by a shield,' Hudson told TMZ, noting that only the lens could be seen poking through the protective layer.

Ian Hudson, pictured on the set of Rust, said he and his fellow actors grew worried over gun safety on stage as they often checked their weapons multiple times

Rust cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was accidently shot by Alec Baldwin with a vintage-style Colt revolver while on set of Rust last week

An inconsolable Baldwin is shown outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office after accidentally shooting and killing the cinematographer

He said he was shocked by how intense the guns used in the film were, as even the blanks that struck the cast members were powerful.

Hudson himself had a scene where he played an outlaw gunned down by 20 pistols and two rifles.

He described the experience as 'life-threatening' as he was bombarded by the rush of air released from the real weapons unloading blanks. He was even hit by a piece of cardboard during the scene.

Hudson said 'I would talk to my fellow cast members afterwards and we would talk about how intense that was, how scary and surreal that was,' he said.

The fledgling actor said that he was confused as to why the equipment needed protection while the actors stood exposed, but he ultimately 'held his tongue', given that he is relatively new in the business and didn't 'want to cause trouble.'

However, Hudson noted and some of the other actors would often double and triple-check their weapons regardless of whether they were given the ok from the film's armorer and staff.

Hudson added that the death of Brandon Lee, who was shot and killed on the set of The Crow from a gun that should have only had blanks, came up a few times during the set as he and his fellow actors grew worried about the guns on set.

'We're doing it the same way they did it then 30 years ago. Gotta double check. Gotta make sure,' Hudson said.

Eliza Hutton, left, pictured with Brandon Lee in 1992. Hutton condemned the use of real guns on movie sets which led to the death of Lee during the final days of filming The Crow

Hutton and Lee, pictured in 1991, were going to be married, but Lee was shot and killed on stage just two weeks before the wedding

Lee's family posted a tweet, sending their condolences to Hutchins and Souza's families

Lee's fiancee, Eliza Hutton, has called for a ban on real guns on movie sets while speaking out for the first time on Alec Baldwin accidentally shooting and killing Hutchins.

Hutton, 57, said that the accident that killed Hutchins and wounded director Joel Souza was yet another 'avoidable tragedy' like the one that claimed her fiancee's life while he was shooting The Crow in 1993.

'Twenty eight years ago, I was shattered by the shock and grief of losing the love of my life, Brandon Lee, so senselessly. My heart aches again now for Halyna Hutchins' husband and son, and for all those left in the wake of this avoidable tragedy,' Hutton told PEOPLE.

'I urge those in positions to make change to consider alternatives to real guns on sets,' she added.

In the wake of the shooting, Lee's family posted on Twitter that 'No one should ever be killed by a gun on a film set. Period.'

Hutton and Lee, son of the famed martial artist Bruce Lee, were preparing to get married following production of The Crow, but two weeks before everything wrapped up.

Lee was shot and killed by a fellow actor using a gun that was supposed to only hold blanks.

Hudson also defended Rust armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, 24, who prepared the gun that went off in Baldwin's hands and killed Hutchins.

Sources on the set of Rust said the incident that killed cinematographer Halyna Hutchins could be tied to the armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed

Ian Hudson defended Gutierrez-Reed, saying she was doing a good job while on set

Sources accused Gutierrez-Reed of loading a weapon on the pebble-filled ground and handing it to child actress, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, 11, without conducting a proper inspection on the set of Nicholas Cage's The Old Way

He said the rookie armorer had been praised on set for her handling of the weapons, but noted that production was 'speedy.'

A source who worked alongside Gutierrez-Reed on an previous film set said she has a history of recklessness around guns.

'She was a bit careless with the guns, waving it around every now and again,' the source told The Daily Beast. 'There were a couple times she was loading the blanks and doing it in a fashion that we thought was unsafe.'

Another source accused Gutierrez-Reed of loading a weapon on the pebble-filled ground and handing it to child actress, Ryan Kiera Armstrong, 11, without conducting a proper inspection.

'She was reloading the gun on the ground, where there were pebbles and stuff. We didn't see her check it, we didn't know if something got in the barrel or not,' a source who worked with her set of the upcoming Nicolas Cage film, The Old Way, said.

The individual noted that the crew waited to film until Gutierrez-Reed had double checked the barrel for obstruction.

Gutierrez-Reed had previously admitted she wasn't sure she was ready for the job on The Old Way in an interview before filming started.

'I almost didn't take the job because I wasn't sure if I was ready, but doing it, it went really smoothly,' Gutierrez-Reed said in a podcast interview last month after leading the firearms department for The Old Way, starring Nicolas Cage - her first time as head armorer.

She also admitted in the podcast interview she found loading blanks into a gun 'the scariest' thing because she did not know how to do it and had sought help from her father, legendary gunsmith Thell Reed, to get over the fear.

Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the 24-year-old head armorer in charge of guns on Alec Baldwin film said she 'wasn't sure she was ready' for the job in an interview before filming began

A search warrant released Friday said that Gutierrez-Reed laid out three prop guns on a cart outside the filming location, and first assistant director Dave Halls (pictured) grabbed the gun from the cart and brought it inside to Alec Baldwin, unaware that it was loaded with live rounds

An aerial view of the Bonanza Creek Ranch in Santa Fe, where the movie was being filmed. Workers had been protesting over the fact production wouldn't pay for them to stay in hotels and motels in Santa Fe, instead forcing them to drive an hour to Albuquerque

A fellow Rust crew member referred to Gutierrez-Reed as being 'inexperienced and green,' alleging that there had been at least two incidents of guns being discharged on set before Thursday's fatal accident.

Rust crew members claim there were several complaints made against the armorer on the set and that at least six 'fed-up' people had walked off the set prior to Gutierrez-Reed handing Baldwin the gun that killed Hutchins.

The crew made their complaints directly to assistant director Dave Hall - who is named in the search warrant affidavit as the person who handed Baldwin the gun that killed Hutchins and told him it was safe - and demanded all the discharges were documented.

'All of us yelled at him, 'That better be on the production report, these guys are irresponsible and shouldn't be here,' a production source said.

'That should be automatic grounds for termination on a union film set, you should be gone. The first time that gun went off without telling anybody, that whole department should have been replaced, immediately. Clearly production thought better of it, decided to roll the dice and pay the ultimate price.'

Baldwin and Hutchins (circled) are pictured together on the set of Rust, in an image that she uploaded to Instagram two days ago saying the crew of the film were supporting a strike by the IATSE union

A search warrant released Friday said that Gutierrez-Reed laid out three prop guns on a cart outside the filming location, and first assistant director Dave Halls grabbed the gun from the cart and brought it inside to Alec Baldwin, unaware that it was loaded with live rounds.

'Cold gun!' shouted Halls before handing the gun to Baldwin, using the phrase to signal to cast and crew that the gun was safe to fire for the scene, the warrant said.

Seconds later, filming a scene inside an Old West-style church, Baldwin apparently aimed towards the camera and pulled the trigger, accidentally killing Halyna Hutchins as she filmed him, and injuring director Joel Souza, who stood behind her.

Why WAS a gun on Alec Baldwin movie set loaded with live ammo? Mystery over events that led to actor killing cinematographer The deadly chain of events on set that led to Alec Baldwin being handed a gun with live ammunition and accidentally shooting and killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins have become clearer after it emerged last night the actor fired a live round, believing it to be a blank. Experts yesterday told DailyMail.com safety on set is usually extremely tight with live bullets never used in filming and it remains unclear why a firearm loaded with live ammunition was on the Rust set at all. Baldwin was handed a gun loaded with live ammunition First assistant director Dave Halls picked up one of the firearms - a vintage-style Colt revolver laid out by armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed - unaware it was loaded with live bullets. 'Cold gun!' shouted Halls before handing the gun to Baldwin, using the phrase to signal to cast and crew that the gun was safe to fire for the scene, a search warrant released on Friday said. Baldwin, filming a scene inside an Old West-style church, then fired a live round towards the camera, accidentally killing Hutchins as she filmed him. Hutchins was airlifted to the hospital but was pronounced dead. Souza was taken to the hospital by ambulance but was released on Thursday evening. Why was live ammunition used on set in the first place? Live ammunition is never usually used on film sets and Baldwin's shooting and killing of a cinematographer a 'total mystery', a Hollywood armorer has said. Mike Tristan, 60, who has provided guns for movie sets for over 30 years, said the injuries sustained by Hutchins should not have been possible. Tristan, who has worked with Baldwin before, said any professional armorer would have checked the weapon, which he believes was a Western, before handing it to the 63-year-old. 'There should have been blanks in the gun, the on-set armorer's job is to check that before handing the weapon over,' Tristan told Dailymail.com. 'They then make sure that the actor stands on a mark and never points the gun at the crew or cast, you give them an aim to point at and the editing makes it seem like they were pointing at their co-actor. 'That's why everyone in the industry is very confused, how this happened is a total mystery at the moment.' Union members had walked off set hours earlier over safety concerns Unionized members walked off set on Wednesday, hours before the tragedy, complaining of safety concerns. They complained about long hours, shoddy conditions and another safety incident days earlier involving 'two misfires' of a prop weapon. Deadline cites an unnamed source who said a gun had gone off 'in a cabin' while someone was holding it, days prior to the shooting that killed Hutchins. 'A gun had two misfires in a closed cabin. They just fired loud pops  a person was just holding it in their hands and it went off,' they said, apparently referring to unintentional discharges. Baldwin's stunt double also accidentally fired two rounds after being told the firearm was 'cold'. When they turned up to set to clear their things on Thursday, they found they'd been replaced by locals. It begs the question of who those local workers were, what their training was and to what extent did they check the weapon before it was handed to Baldwin. Advertisement

Sources on the Rust set have said the fatal incident that killed Hutchins, 42, and injured Souza, 48, was a result of production failings from top to bottom.

They added that assistant director Halls, who handed the gun to Baldwin and told him it was safe, should have checked the weapon.

'He's supposed to be our last line of defense and he failed us,' one of the sources on set said. 'He's the last person that's supposed to look at that firearm.'

A Rust production source told The Daily Beast that there were at least two previous incidents of guns being accidentally discharged by other crewmember on set before Thursday's tragic incident.

The gun that fired the fatal shot was a vintage-style Colt revolver, DailyMail.com has exclusively learned.

After the shooting, the armorer took possession of the gun and a spent casing, which were turned over to police, along with other prop guns and ammunition used on the set.

Baldwin also changed out of the Western costume he was wearing, which was stained with blood, and turned it over to police.

The warrant does not reveal the model or caliber of the prop gun that fired the fatal bullet, but the film is set in the Old West of the 1880s and DailyMail.com has learned it was a Colt.

The warrant was obtained Friday so that investigators could document the scene at the ranch where the shooting took place.

Unionized workers had walked off the set hours before the fatal shooting, after they complained about long hours, shoddy conditions and another safety incident days earlier involving 'two misfires' of a prop weapon.

A yet-unnamed prop master who oversaw the gun used in the fatal shooting was a non-union worker who was 'just brought in' to replace the workers who left over safety concerns, a source involved in the movie told the New York Post.

It's unclear whether Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer, had recently joined the production, or was one of the crew members who stayed behind after the walk-off.

However, a link in her Instagram bio points to an article about Rust from May, suggesting she had been attached to the production for some time.

Unionized employees had been complaining about the fact they had to stay overnight in Albuquerque - an hour's drive from the set - and not Sante Fe because production wouldn't pay for their hotels, according to sources cited by The Los Angeles Times and multiple social media posts by film and TV insiders.

When they turned up to set to clear their things on Thursday, they found they'd been replaced by locals.

It begs the question of who those local workers were, what their training was and to what extent did they check the weapon before it was handed to Baldwin.

Deadline also cites an unnamed source who said a gun had gone off 'in a cabin' while someone was holding it, days prior to the shooting that killed Hutchins.

'A gun had two misfires in a closed cabin. They just fired loud pops  a person was just holding it in their hands and it went off,' they said, apparently referring to unintentional discharges.

Rust Production LLC did not respond to repeated requests for comment from DailyMail.com on Friday about the incident, but members of the union that represents many of the crew who were involved in the production said they had expressed fears about on-set safety.

Baldwin first addressed the tragedy on Twitter Friday: 'There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours. I'm fully cooperating with the police investigation to address how this tragedy occurred and I am in touch with her husband, offering my support to him and his family. My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna.'

He then tweeted a Variety article titled Alec Baldwin Was Told Prop Gun Was Safe Before Fatal Shooting, Affidavit Says.

He was pictured doubled over in grief on Thursday after speaking to the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Department immediately following the shooting.

Hutchins' husband shared a touching tribute to his wife on Twitter on Friday. Matthew Hutchins tweeted a photo of his wife and their 9-year-old son Andros on Friday captioned: 'Halyna inspired us all with her passion and vision, and her legacy is too meaningful to encapsulate in words.

'Our loss is enormous, and we ask that the media please respect my family's privacy as we process our grief. We thank everyone for sharing images and stories of her life.'

His Facebook profile picture is a photo of the couple who had been married for 16 years. His bio now reads: 'We miss you, Halyna.'

A private memorial was held in Santa Fe last night with Matthew, Andros, and Baldwin in attendance, according to ShowBiz411. It was reported that grief counselors were present at the service.

The grieving husband told DailyMail.com on Friday morning that he had spoken with the actor. 'I have spoken with Alec Baldwin and he is being very supportive,' he said.
A scheme to use facial recognition software to scan pupils in school canteens has been suspended after privacy concerns were raised by Britain's data watchdog.

Nine schools in North Ayrshire in Scotland became the first in the UK to start using the system on a long-term basis last week after a pilot project in Gateshead last year.

The controversial technology has been pitched as making the payment process for meals quicker and more hygienic than using cards or fingerprint scanners.

But its rollout was paused just days after its launch after concerns were raised by privacy groups and the Information Commissioner's Office. The ICO responded to the plans by saying that organisations should consider a 'less intrusive' approach.

Separately, a school in Ashton-under-Lyne, Greater Manchester, has decided to drop its rollout of a similar system in response to the ICO's concerns about intrusiveness.

The Department for Education has issued guidance to UK schools on regulation over the use of facial recognition technology, but it is ultimately up to the school.

The hugely-controversial system has been pitched to make the payment process for meals quicker and more hygienic than using cards or fingerprint scanners (file picture)

Campaign group Big Brother Watch, which had written to schools in the area urging them to drop the scheme, described the decision in North Ayrshire as 'fantastic'.

The group's director Silkie Carlo told MailOnline: 'We welcome this pause and would urge councils to make it a permanent ban on facial recognition in schools.

How does the facial recognition technology in schools work? Facial recognition software is being pitched to schools as a way of speeding up lunch payments. One of the British companies involved in the technology, CRB Cunninghams, claims the system works even when pupils are wearing face masks - and can achieve an average serving time of just five seconds per pupil. The technology scans the faces of children at lunch tills, and then checks the students against a register of faces stored on school servers. The students using the system need to select their meal then look at the camera and go, which is considered to be a more hygienic approach than card payments and fingerprints. It also means pupils do not need to carry any form of identification such as a card or even enter a personal identification number (Pin). The school meal payments are then instantly reflected in the pupil's cashless accounts. Advertisement

'No child should have to go through border style identity checks just to get a school meal. We are supposed to live in a democracy, not a security state.

'This is highly sensitive, personal data that children should be taught to protect, not to give away on a whim.'

North Ayrshire Council said 97 per cent of children or their parents had given consent for the new system. Parents have to opt in for children to use the technology.

The system had been introduced after the half-term break and scanned the faces of children at lunch tills. It checked students against a register of faces stored on school servers.

Information supplied to parents by the council said: 'With facial recognition, pupils simply select their meal, look at the camera and go, making for a faster lunch service whilst removing any contact at the point of sale.

'Pupils no longer need to carry any form of identification such as a card or even enter a personal identification number (Pin).

'School meal payments are instantly reflected in the pupil's cashless accounts in the same way as any other identification method.'

A North Ayrshire Council spokesman said: 'Having received a number of enquiries in recent days, we have temporarily paused the contactless payment system, which uses facial recognition, in our secondary schools from this afternoon while we consider and respond to the enquiries received.

'Whilst we are confident the new facial recognition system is operating as planned, we felt it prudent to revert to the previous PIN (Personal identification Number) system while we consider the enquiries received.

'Pupils using the facial recognition system, who do not already have PINs, will be issued with these. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and hope to be in a position to offer a further update in the very near future.'

North Ayrshire Council (whose offices in Irvine are pictured) said 97 per cent of children or their parents had given consent for the new system

The school in Ashton-under-Lyne which has dropped its rollout of a similar system is Great Academy Ashton - a decision which principal David Waugh said was in response to comments made by the ICO about the potential intrusiveness.

How live facial recognition systems have been dogged by controversy worldwide Live facial recognition systems are becoming increasingly common across the world but have been dogged by controversy. A Swedish school used the software to keep a track of students' attendance but was stopped after it was found to have failed to comply with data protection regulations. In France, two schools used the technology to control access to the entrance gate - but has since been put on hold after concerns from teachers and parents. In the US, schools have embraced the tool as a way of providing more robust security following several high-profile school shootings. But New York state last year banned the software in schools until 2022 to give its education department time to evaluate the privacy implications. In Britain, the Department for Education has issued guidance to schools on regulation over the use of facial recognition technology, but it is ultimately up to the school. Pippa King, who runs the Biometrics in Schools blog, said earlier this month that European countries were taking the collection of biometric information from children far more seriously. She has also called for more debate in Parliament on the subject. Advertisement

He told the BBC: 'The combined fingerprint and facial recognition system was part of an upgrade to the catering cashless system, so that the time it takes to serve students is reduced, thus giving a better dining experience.

'However, we will not be using the facial recognition aspect.'

Professor Fraser Sampson, biometrics and surveillance camera commissioner for England and Wales, also told the BBC that any public services considering using facial recognition should think carefully before 'deciding to use a measure as obviously intrusive as facial recognition'.

An ICO spokesman said: 'Organisations using facial recognition technology (FRT) must comply with data protection law before, during and after its use. In addition, data protection law provides additional protections for children, and organisations need to carefully consider the necessity and proportionality of collecting biometric data before they do so.

'Organisations should consider using a different approach if the same goal can be achieved in a less intrusive manner.

'We understand that North Ayrshire Council decided to pause using FRT in schools following our initial enquiries. Our aim is to ensure that children's data is protected in line with the law and we will continue engaging with the Council on this issue.

'Anyone who feels that their personal data has been processed in a manner that is unlawful can raise a complaint directly with the ICO.'

The technology has been installed in schools in Britain by a company called CRB Cunninghams which has offices in Birmingham and Edinburgh. MailOnline has contacted the firm for comment.

Earlier this month its managing director David Swanston told the Financial Times: 'It's the fastest way of recognising someone at the till - it's faster than card, it's faster than fingerprint.

'In a secondary school you have around about a 25-minute period to serve potentially 1,000 pupils. So we need fast throughput at the point of sale.'
Lord Frost today warned the EU time is running out to agree a compromise on post-Brexit border rules in Northern Ireland as he set a winter deadline for a breakthrough.

The Brexit minister told peers this afternoon that 'there isn't lots of time left' for negotiations and 'ideally' the dispute will be resolved 'this autumn'.

Lord Frost repeated his warning that the UK is willing to unilaterally tear up some of the rules if no deal can be agreed.

He said the row over customs checks in Northern Ireland had caused 'mistrust' between the two sides.

But he insisted that if a bilateral solution can be found then Britain and the bloc will be able to 'get the drinks out' and move on.

Lord Frost told peers this afternoon that 'there isn't lots of time left' for negotiations and 'ideally' the dispute will be resolved 'this autumn'

The Brexit minister said the row over customs checks in Northern Ireland had caused 'mistrust' between the two sides

The Northern Ireland Protocol, agreed as part of the original Brexit deal, requires checks on goods to be carried out at ports in order to avoid the return of a land border with the Republic.

But it has caused disruption to trade and angered unionists who have demanded the rules be scrapped, arguing they create a barrier between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.

The UK and the EU are currently locked in talks to try and find ways of improving the protocol.

Lord Frost told the European Affairs Committee that the relationship between the two sides has been 'bumpy'.

He was told that Michael Gove had previously compared the relationship to turbulence on an aircraft after take off, saying the two sides were not yet at the 'gin and tonic and peanuts stage'.

Asked when the UK and the EU could get to that stage, Lord Frost replied: I think it comes when we have found the right equilibrium on the Northern Ireland Protocol and as I was saying in my speech in Lisbon, I think that is the key to putting things on a better footing.

The mistrust that has been generated by the protocol is getting in the way of all sorts of other things.

However, if we can put that on a better footing, I really have no doubts that we will be in a better place quite quickly and we can get the drinks out.

Lord Frost said 'there is a terminus' point for the talks, adding: 'It just isnt one that necessarily ends in agreement.'

The Cabinet Office Minister has repeatedly warned that the UK is willing to trigger Article 16 of the protocol to unilaterally rip up border rules if the EU refuses to give ground.

He said this afternoon: 'I think both we and the commission would like to move this on and ideally resolve it this autumn.

So there isnt lots of time left. That is why we are trying to work as intensively as possible at the moment.

Obviously, it is no secret, if we cant reach agreement and we are still faced with a significant political problem in Northern Ireland then Article 16 exists, it is in the treaty, and that is one way of dealing with it.

But I hope we don't have to go there. It is better to do it by consensus.

His comments came after he told MPs yesterday that the UK will not accept a role for the European Court of Justice (ECJ) as an arbitrator of the protocol.

The UK wants ECJ oversight of the border rules to be ended but the EU is adamant the court should still play a role.

The EU has offered to slash border checks in Northern Ireland but the UK has said the proposals do not go far enough.
The former acting commissioner for Customs and Border Protection (CBP) fears the latest caravan of thousands of migrants currently trekking through Southern Mexico could spell security problems throughout the United States' southern border.

Mark Morgan told The National Desk on Tuesday that he expects the caravan, which consists of some 3,000 Africans, Central Americans, Haitians and South Americans, will arrive at the U.S.-Mexico border in several weeks.

'When you have numbers like 1.7 million [encounters reported by CBP in fiscal year 2021], the majority of those in the last nine months, the United States Border Patrol is overwhelmed,' he said.

'That's why we have large areas of the border wide open. This should concern all of us.'

Morgan's comments come as the migrants have spent four days together traveling by foot and chanting 'yes we can' in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas in an effort to reach Mexico City and petition the administration of President Andrea Manuel Lopez Obrador to grant them the necessary permits in order to freely move in the country.

The group, called by organizers the 'Madre Caravana' or 'Mother Caravan,' has one objective: to reach the U.S. border and ask President Joe Biden's administration for asylum.

Migrants heading to Mexico City to request asylum and refugee status rested in Huixtla, Chiapas, on Tuesday. At least 3,000 people have formed part of a caravan that hopes to reach the US and seek asylum

Former CBP acting commissioner Mark Morgan (pictured in October 2019) told The National Desk on Tuesday that he expects the caravan, which consists of some 3,000 Africans, Central Americans, Haitians and South Americans, will arrive at the border in several weeks

According to Morgan - who served as Border Patrol chief under then-President Barack Obama and quit after Donald Trump took office before serving as acting CBP director from July 2019 to January 2021 - the migrants have declined an offer from the Mexican government to remain in their nation, which he he labeled 'a safe third country' despite its problems with poverty and violence driven by cartels.

'Those images, these migrants clearly have no regard for the rule of law, our nation's sovereignty, and also should tell us that these migrants are clearly economic migrants, they're not seeking asylum, valid asylum,' he said.

'They're outside the country right now, they've arrived in Mexico, a safe third country where Mexico has said, hey we will give you asylum, but that wasn't their end goal.

The migrants defied the U.S. government by saying 'tell Biden we are coming' as left the Chiapas town of Tapachula, which borders Guatemala, on Saturday and spent parts of the last two days in Huehuetan.

Morgan's comments come as the migrants have spent four days together traveling by foot and chanting 'yes we can' in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas in an effort to reach Mexico City and petition the administration of President Andrea Manuel Lopez Obrador to grant them the necessary permits in order to freely move in the country.

Morgan was critical of Biden for not visiting the border.

'I've been there before ... I know it well ... I guess I should go down,' the president said last week during a CNN town hall.

The former acting CBP chief also said he didn't agree with Border Patrol Chief Raul Ortiz for saying that Texas Gov. Greg Abbott should leave surveillance of the border to 'border security experts.'

Their end goal is to get to the United States, violate our laws.'

Migrants took a break from their march toward Mexico City and the US-Mexico border and rested in Huixtla, a city in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas, on Tuesday

A migrant family slept in the middle of a street in Huixtla, Mexico, as the caravan they joined stopped to rest following four days of traveling by foot

The caravan, pictured resting Tuesday, set off from Tapachula on October 23

Morgan credited Abbot's deployment of about 1,000 state troopers and Texas Rangers to stand guard at the border.

Their presence, he said, has resulted in about 150,000 migrants being detained for unlawful border crossing.

'At least there's some form of consequence that's being applied by Operation Lone Star, unlike now where there are no consequences being applied,' he said.

Texas Republican Rep. Tony Gonzalez echoed Morgan's sentiments in an interview with Fox News on Monday, declaring that the state was fending for itself.

'For the first time, though, you see Texans get behind Texans and we are ready to secure the border on our own,' Gonzalez said.

'Sadly, that's what it's come to. You got Texas National Gard there, you got of course Texas DPS [Department of Public Safety] agents, as well.

'The bottom line is: every day people do not feel safe because of the chaos that this administration has caused along the border.'

Migrants, mostly from Central America, walked north along a coastal highway just outside of Huixtla, Chiapas, on Monday

They carried a cross and the American flag as they were on their way to Huixtla, Chiapas

Dozens of migrants sought shelter from the heavy rains on Monday, causing them to momentarily stop their journey toward Mexico City where they intend to seek a permit that will allow them to freely move through the country in their attempt to reach the US border

Tired children and adults rested in Huixtla Monday following three days of traveling by foot in a caravan of about 3,000 people from Africa, Central America, Haiti and South America

Organizers of caravan initially drew its members by distributing a QR code that was shared on social media in mid-October.

Most of those who joined the migrant caravan were camping out in the Chiapas city of Huixtla on Wednesday, where they had begun to arrive the previous night and sought shelter from the heavy rains.

'It is a joy for us, because it is one more step, for us to fulfill our dreams,' a migrant identified as Mario Lopez told Mexican news station Milenio.

'We simply want free passage [through Mexico], we do not want to offend anyone, not even immigration [agents].

'We just want to go through Mexico to fulfill our American dream.'
President Joe Biden crossed the Potomac River to Arlington, Virginia Tuesday night to campaign for former Gov. Terry McAuliffe by repeatedly going after his opponent Glenn Youngkin  blasting Trump's statements following the death of Colin Powell and ripping Youngkin for picking up Trump's election fraud claims.

'How well do you know Terrys opponent?' Biden asked a crowd of McAuliffe supporters. 'Well just remember this. I ran against Donald Trump. And Terry is running against an acolyte of Donald Trump,' he said, tearing into Youngkin, the GOP candidate.

He called out Trump's 'attack' on Colin Powell after his death at 84  Trump dubbed him a 'RINO.' Biden called it 'unbelievable,' speaking near the Pentagon in a region filled with military workers and contractors.

'Trump did the same thing about John McCain. That's who Donald Trump is. All coming from a guy who invented the Big Lie, drove a mob of insurrectionists to breach the Capitol on the sixth of January. And to this day, he incites people all around the country,' Biden said.

President Joe Biden campaigned for former Virginia Gov. Terry McAcAuliffe, who faces a tough bid to reclaim the governor's mansion

With the tight election in Virginia likely to reverberate across national politics after Election Day next month, Biden pointed to Youngkin's statement about election 'integrity' to paint him as a pawn of Trump.

'This guy starts that he's calling for election integrity  Now why did he do that?' Biden asked the crowd.

He said he did it because he wanted to hear from Trump. 'There was a price hed have to pay for the nomination, and he paid it,' Biden said. 'But now he doesn't want to talk about Trump anymore. Well, I do. Talk about an oxymoron: Donald Trump an election integrity.'

Democratic gubernatorial candidate former Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe speaks during a rally Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021, in Arlington, Va. McAuliffe will face Republican Glenn Youngkin in the November election

Biden hailed Powell as a decorated American hero.

Trump wrote the day after Powell's death: 'Wonderful to see Colin Powell, who made big mistakes on Iraq and famously, so-called weapons of mass destruction, be treated in death so beautifully by the Fake News Media. Hope that happens to me someday. He was a classic RINO, if even that, always being the first to attack other Republicans. He made plenty of mistakes, but anyway, may he rest in peace!'

Trump was Topic One at the rally in other ways - as pro-Trump protesters yelled out at the top of the event.

'Thats right this is not a Trump rally  we let em holler,' Biden said, a reference to how Trump had protesters tossed from his events in 2016 and 2020.

'Thats alright. Let them go. Why dont you hang out and talk to me when this is over okay?' amid audible cheers from Trump protesters.

A pool reporter traveling with Biden said the protesters were in fact yelling about a pipeline to carry tar sands from Canada to Wisconsin.

They were shouting 'Stop Line 3!,' in reference to the project.

Biden also ripped Youngkin for not having Trump stump for him in-person in the state.

'He wont stand next to Donald Trump now that the campaigns on. Whats he trying to hide?' Biden said.

'Is there a problem with Trump being here? Is he embarrassed' he wondered.

Then he tore into Youngkin on other issues.

'If you want to protect a womans right to choose in Virginia, you need a governor absolutely committed to protecting that right,' Biden said, pointing to a new Texas abortion law.

Youngkin has given back at Biden, accusing him of having a 'failed presidency.'

Biden had another message in an off-year election, when his own public approval ratings have slipped after the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan and problems dealing with COVID-19. 'Vote, vote, vote, vote, vote.'

McAuliffe has seen his lead over Republican Glenn Youngkin slip away with one week to go until the election.

A new USA Today/Suffolk University Poll released Tuesday has the candidates essentially tied - with McAuliffe receiving 45.6 per cent and Youngkin at 45.2 per cent. Five per cent of Virginians polls remained undecided.

Emerson and Monmouth surveys also have the Democrat and the Republican tied.

That's a big change, as McAuliffe had been comfortably ahead of Youngkin for most of the race - sometimes by as much as nine points, surveys showed.

President Joe Biden will return to the campaign trail Tuesday night to stump for Virginia Democrat Terry McAuliffe, who is now tied with Republican Glenn Youngkin in the commonwealth's gubernatorial race

As the polls have tightened, big name Democrats have flocked to Virginia. Former President Barack Obama (left) appeared with McAuliffe (right) on Saturday in Richmond

Singer Dave Matthews (middle left) joined McAuliffe (right) on the campaign trail in Charlottesville on Sunday, along with Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison (left) and voting rights activist Stacey Abrams (middle right)

Virginia Republican gubernatorial candidate Glenn Youngkin fills up a supporter's truck with gas at campaign event on the gas tax in Diwiddie at the Flat Rock Country Store on October 26, 2021 in McKenney, Virginia

McAuliffe was a known quantity in Virginia, having already served as governor.

Virginia doesn't allow governors to run for consecutive terms, so McAuliffe had to sit out four years before running for his old job again.

Now that the race has tightened, Democrats have been forced to send their biggest political stars to the state to get McAuliffe across the line.

Polling has shown that Youngkin is more likely to win if turnout is low.

Republicans in the state are more enthusiastic about voting in the race than their Democratic counterparts, the Monmouth survey showed.

On Saturday, former President Barack Obama returned to the campaign trail, urging Democrats, 'Don't sit this one out.'

He linked Youngkin, a businessman who used to lead the Carlyle Group, to former President Donald Trump and the so-called 'big lie.'

'You can't run ads telling me you are a regular old hoops-playing, dish-washing, fleece-wearing guy, but quietly cultivate support from those who seek to tear down our democracy,' Obama said.

Obama said Youngkin had wanted to audit voting machines used in the last presidential election.

'Really? Encouraging the lies and conspiracy theories that we've had to live through all this time? And yet we're supposed to believe he's going to stand up for our democracy?' Obama mused.

At another campaign event over the weekend, McAuliffe was joined by Dave Matthews, the frontman of the Dave Matthews Band, in Charlottesville, where the band got its start.

Former Georgia gubernatorial hopeful Stacey Abrams and Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison were also on hand.

Before that, Vice President Kamala Harris campaigned with McAuliffe on Thursday, while First Lady Jill Biden joined him on the campaign trail the week before.

Harris will return to the campaign trail for McAuliffe on Friday, at a Norfolk event with singer Pharrell Williams.

McAuliffe (left) appeared with Vice President Kamala Harris (right) at a campaign event Thursday night in Dumfries, Virginia. Monmouth, Emerson and Suffolk polls this week showed McAuliffe tied with Republican rival Glenn Youngkin, spooking Democrats

McAuliffe (left) appeared with First Lady Jill Biden (right) at a rally earlier this month in Richmond, Virginia

Biden's appearance in Arlington, one of D.C.'s blue suburbs, marks the second time he'll join McAuliffe on the campaign trail.

He also attended a rally in July.

Biden is squeezing in the trip before heading to Italy and Scotland for the G20 and COP26. It also comes as negotiations on the Built Back Better reconciliation bill continue on Capitol Hill.

In September, Biden helped California Gov. Gavin Newsom overcome a recall election threat.

Biden appeared with Newsom in Long Beach, California on election eve.

They were successful, in part, because the two Democrats nationalized the election and turned Newsom's top Republican competitor, radio talk show host Larry Elder, into a new version of Trump.
China has launched a new craft into space that the US warns could be a satellite-crushing weapon.

Beijing blasted the Shijian 21 satellite into orbit on Sunday aboard a Long March rocket, saying the mission will test 'technologies to... neutralise space debris'.

But Washington says the same technology can be used to 'grapple' and destroy other satellites and is part of China's strategy to achieve 'superiority through space-attack systems'.

The launch was revealed just before Xi Jinping spoke at a military conference in Beijing this week, telling scientists to 'break new ground' in developing weapons to create a 'world class' army.

China launched the Shijian 21 satellite into orbit on Sunday (pictured), saying it will test technology to clear space debris - the same tech the US warns can destroy other satellites

The launch came as Xi Jinping called on the military to 'break new ground' in developing weapons and praised progress made in the last five years

Xi, who has overseen a major overhaul of China's military since taking power in 2012, hailed progress made over the last five years - saying new technology has been essential to enhancing the country's military might.

As well as the Shijian 21 satellite, China is thought to have launched a new kind of hypersonic missile into space that analysts believe could be tipped with a nuke.

Beijing is believed to have tested the weapon twice over the summer, once in July and again in August. The tests were only revealed last week after intelligence sources disclosed the information to journalists.

Those charged with assessing the new 'weapons' are still struggling to work out exactly what it is capable of, buy say it appears to 'defy the laws of physics' and goes beyond anything the US has developed.

The craft that China launched orbited the Earth at high speed before coming down on a target which it missed by some 24 miles, analysts said.

Based on that information, it appears to be similar to a Cold War-era Soviet nuclear system called FOBS which is designed to evade nuclear defences.

Beijing has acknowledged one of the tests, but denies it launched a weapon and says the craft was actually for civilian use.

China is thought to have carried out two tests of a hypersonic orbital nuke - the first on July 27 and the second on August 13 this year. Observers believe the 'weapon' is an updated version of a Soviet concept called a 'Fractional Orbital Bombardment System', or FOBS. It is designed to evade powerful US radar systems and anti-missile defences designed to shoot down traditional ICBMs by flying in low-Earth orbit, making it harder to spot, track and destroy

Beijing has launched one 'debris-clearing' satellite before - Shijian 17 which went into space back in 2016.

Officially designated a communication satellite that is merely 'observing' space debris, the US says it is actually equipped with a robotic arm.

Washington argues that Shijian 17 is in fact a military satellite that is capable of bringing down other orbiting craft.

General James Dickinson, head of US Space Command, wrote to Congress earlier this year that the satellite 'could be used in future for grappling other satellites.'

China's military budget has been growing year-on-year since the 1990s in line with its booming economy.

When Xi took over leadership of the country in 2012, it stood at roughly $130billion. Back in March, the 2021 budget was revealed to be almost $210billion.

That extra cash has been used to build the country's first aircraft carriers, with nuclear-powered ones now in the works.

China has also churned out new tanks, stealth fighter jets, long-range bombers, missiles and drones.

China, the US and Russia are engaged in a global arms race that now includes the development of hypersonic missile technology. Here, the MailOnline has compared (from left) each country's main nuclear weapon, the latest hypersonic technology they have tested, their most up-to-date aircraft carriers, main battle tanks, and cutting-edge jets

The country is now in the midst of a major upgrade of its nuclear forces, having shown off new long-range ICBMs at a 2019 military parade along with hypersonic nuclear warheads.

In order to house the new weaponry, China is thought to be building 230 new silos - each of which can hold a nuclear missile tipped with up to 12 warheads each.

Beijing is using its new military hardware to take a more-aggressive stances with its neighbours - imposing its rule on Hong Kong, menacing Taiwan, laying claim to vast swathes of ocean and fighting with Indian troops in the Himalayas.

It has built new military bases on top of uninhabited islands in the South China Sea which it claims as its own - causing friction with the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia and others in the region.

Similar disputes have been sparked in the East China Sea, angering Japan.

Beijing claims its intentions are entirely peaceful, but Washington has been pushing back - assembling new alliances with the likes of Australia, Japan and India aimed at counter-balancing China's growing power.

That has soured relations between Beijing and Washington, which are also locked in fierce economic competition with one-another.
A fugitive former chef and alleged cocaine trafficker may have fled the country on a private jet out of Bankstown Airport, police fear.

Mostafa Baluch allegedly cut off his tracking device and vanished from his $4 million home in Sydney's northern beaches just days after he got bail.

By the time police arrived at the luxury home in Bayview on Monday, he was gone. Detectives now believe he may raced to Bankstown to jump on a jet out of Australia.

Baluch, 33, is charged with financing a 900kg shipment of cocaine to Australia and his home will now be seized by police under the terms of his bail.

Former restaurateur Mostafa Baluch, 33 (pictured), had been charged with financing a 900kg shipment of cocaine to Australia and was granted bail just days ago

Police allege he is involved in the 'highest levels of organised crime' and cut off his ankle bracelet at about 10.30pm on Monday.

Organised crime squad commander Detective Superintendent Rob Critchlow said the alleged drug kingpin is 'very well connected' and may be receiving help from other alleged criminals.

'To cut a bracelet off your ankle which has been imposed by the court shows a very serious intent to flee,' he told reporters on Tuesday.

'We also know for a fact he has substantial financial assets, which we would expect he's utilising to flee at the least our jurisdiction, maybe the country.

A $4million home in Sydney's exclusive Northern Beaches (pictured in June) will be seized by police after the owner of the property allegedly cut off his tracking device and fled

'Anyone in his circle of friends and family should also keep us updated because you can be sure we will be visiting anyone we know is connected to.'

As part of Baluch's strict bail conditions, he was required to stay at his luxurious Bayview home and only leave to report to police at Mona Vale Station once a day.

He was also made to wear an ankle bracelet monitoring device at all times, banned from alcohol and drugs, and restricted from using encrypted apps.

Baluch's bail conditions also warned he was to go near any international departure point.

With the alleged underworld figure now on the run after putting up his home for surety as part of his bail, police said they are now moving to seize the property.

Officers are pictured at the Bayview home when Baluch was arrested back in June

Baluch, who once owned Cervo restaurant in Northbridge, was swept up by police in June as part of the high profile AN0M raids.

Law enforcement designed an encrypted app and marketed it to alleged underworld figures so investigators could monitor their communications.

He was charged with possessing anabolic steroids, drug supply, and dealing with the proceeds of crime and later hit with charge of conspiracy to import a commercial quantity of drugs.

He now faces life imprisonment.

NSW Police Minister David Elliott appeared to be seething that the millionaire restaurateur was granted bail by the courts.

'He doesn't deserve the confidence that the court has afforded him,' he said.

'But I'm pretty confident knowing the technology and surveillance techniques of the NSW Police he'll be found.

'My advice to him is to save yourself some time and anxiety and present yourself to the local police station today.'

Baluch, who once owned Cervo restaurant in Northbridge, was swept up by police in June as part of the high profile ANoM raids in June (pictured)

NSW Police Minister David Elliott appeared to be seething that the millionaire restaurateur (pictured) was granted bail by the courts

Detectives started investigating Baluch last year after receiving a tip about a person gambling a huge amount of money at Star Casino.

The betting was flagged as potential money laundering and kicked off an investigation that eventually became focused on drug trafficking.

Police allege they discovered drugs were being imported across Australia and North and South America.

The US Navy seized 870kg of cocaine after intercepting a vessel travelling off the coast of Colombia in October 2020.

Another 900kg of the drug was seized from a boat sailing off the coast of Ecuador in April.

Both shipments allegedly formed part of the overarching conspiracy to import three tonnes of cocaine into Australia.

Detectives started investigating Baluch (pictured being arrested in June) last year after receiving a tip about a person gambling a huge amount of money at the Star Casino

Baluch (pictured after being arrested in June) now faces life imprisonment

Police allege Baluch was the sole financier of the second shipment of cocaine worth a total street value of $270 million.

A 'massive manhunt' is now underway

'This man is a very dangerous offender,' Superintendent Critchlow told reporters.

'The allegations he's been facing indicate that he was involved in the highest levels of organised crime and he presents a risk to the Australian community and probably now the world community.'

Baluch is about 180cm tall with a muscular build and is Mediterranean/Middle Eastern in appearance with black hair and brown eyes.

Police suspect is travelling in a dark grey luxury car and urged anyone who may have any information about his whereabouts to call Triple-0.

Police allege Baluch (pictured) was the sole financier of a shipment of cocaine worth a total street value of $270 million
Comedian Dave Chappelle said that his upcoming documentary has been pulled by distributors and that invites to film festivals have been rescinded amid the controversy surrounding his sixth Netflix special The Closer.

LGBTQ activists have slammed Chappelle for his jokes about the trans community and, last Wednesday, transgender employees at Netflix staged a walkout to protest the streaming service for airing the special.

Chappelle said that the untitled documentary, about the comedians efforts to hold stand-up shows in a neighbors cornfield in Ohio during the pandemic, had been invited to every film festival in the United States.

In the wake of The Closer controversy, however, they began disinviting me from these film festivals and now, today, not a film company, not a movie studio, not a film festival, not nobody will touch this film.'

Chappelle spoke in a five minute video he posted on his Instagram Monday, the first time he publicly spoke out since the special aired during a stand-up appearance in front of a supportive crowd.

Comedian Dave Chappelle said distributors and film festivals 'won't touch' his documentary amid controversy surrounding his Netflix special The Closer

Chappelle spoke in a five minute video he posted on his Instagram Monday, the first time he publicly spoke out since the special aired

Last Wednesday, transgender employees at Netflix staged a walkout to protest the streaming service for airing the special

He added, Thank god for Ted Sarandos at Netflix, hes the only one who didnt cancel me yet.

Sarandos, the co-chief executive at the streaming service, has defended the special and told staff in an email that 'content on screen doesn't translate to real-world harm,' but later backed down and apologized for that email.

Chappelle, 48, defended the special in the Instagram video and claimed that the controversy isnt about the LGBTQ community. Do not blame the LGBTQ community for any of this s**t. That has nothing to do with this, he said. Its about corporate interest and what I can say and I cannot say.

Chappelles documentary, directed by Oscar-nominated filmmakers Julia Reichert and Steve Bognar, features stand-up shows he held in his neighbors spacious Ohio cornfield during through the coronavirus pandemic lockdowns. The best comedians on Earth came to my home and broke bread with me and we lived our ways, we found a way to keep moving forward, he said.

On the first night of such shows, in May 2020, he spoke in depth about the killing of George Floyd by police. I desperately want people to see this movie, he said. But I understand why investors would be nervous.

Chappelle said that he would be airing it on his own and it would be screened at ten American cities, including New York, San Francisco and Indianapolis. You will be able to see this movie in its entirety and you can see what theyre trying to obstruct you from seeing and you can judge for yourself, he said.

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos has defended Dave Chappelle's The Closer special to his staff, telling them in an email 'content on screen doesn't translate to real-world harm'

Hannah Gadsby is a lesbian comedian also featured on Netflix who has slammed Chappelle's special and the streaming service after Sarandos used her name to tout the platform's commitment to diversity

In the Instagram video, Chappelle said that he would be willing to speak with with trans employees at Netflix. 'To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience, but you will not summon me,' Chapelle said. 'I am not bending to anyone's demands, and if you want to meet with me, I am more than willing to, but I have some conditions...'

He continued, 'First of all, you cannot come if you have not watched my special from beginning to end. You must come to a place of my choosing at a time of my choosing, and thirdly, you must admit that Hannah Gadsby is not funny.

'Am I canceled or not? Then let's go!' Chappelle yells at the end of the video as the crowd roared their support.

Hannah Gadsby is a lesbian comedian also featured on Netflix who has slammed Chappelle's special and the streaming service after Sarandos used her name to tout the platform's commitment to diversity.

Sarandos, initially defended Chappelle and said that his special did not 'cross the line' on hate speech, despite various organizations including GLAAD and National Black Justice Coalition condemning the comedian's comments along with a number of trans Netflix employees.

But last week Sarandos appeared to soften his stance.

'I screwed up the internal communication  and I don't mean just mechanically,' Sarandos said. 'I feel I should've made sure to recognize that a group of our employees was hurting very badly from the decision made, and I should've recognized upfront before going into a rationalization of anything the pain they were going through. I say that because I respect them deeply, and I love the contribution they have at Netflix. They were hurting, and I should've recognized that first.'

Sarandos said that Netflix 'was working hard to ensure marginalized communities arent defined by a single story' specifically noting 'we have Sex Education, Orange Is the New Black, Control Z, Hannah Gadsby and Dave Chappelle all on Netflix. Key to this is increasing diversity on the content team itself.'

The Closer is Chappelle's last stand up special on Netflix before he takes a break

Gadsby, who has two comedy specials on Netflix, rose to fame after her first special Nanette began streaming on Netflix in 2018.

She posted on Instagram asking Sarandos not to 'drag [her] name into [his] mess.'

'F**k you and your amoral algorithm cult...' she wrote.

Chappelle courted controversy with his jokes in which he asserts 'gender is a fact,' and criticizes what he says is the thin skin of the trans community.

The jokes were based upon earlier observations made by Harry Potter author J K Rowling's who in 2019 stated that transgender women were not actually women and were a threat to her identity.

In the contentious special, Chappelle also jokes that women today view transwomen the same way black people might view white women wearing blackface, and remarked that women are entitled to feel anger toward transwomen, since Caitlyn Jenner won Glamour magazine's 2015 Woman of the Year award.

'I'd be mad as sh*t if I was a woman,' Chappelle says during one section which protesters have taken exception to.

The star also jokes about the anatomy of transwomen in the special, joking that they lacked real female reproductive organs and that they did not have menstrual blood but 'beet juice' instead.

Chappelle has been branded transphobic for jokes he made in previous specials, though in The Closer he is at pains to stress that he does not hate transgender people.

He concludes the special by telling a long anecdote about a trans woman comic, who he describes as a friend, who came to his defense in earlier entanglements with the community.

Chappelle adds: 'Every human being in this room, every human being on Earth, had to pass through the legs of a woman to be on Earth. That is a fact.'

It has been almost three weeks since the controversy began which saw some staff suspended and others fired in the fallout.

Daphne Dorman, 44, was a transgender amateur comic opened for comedian Dave Chappelle

Chappelle's comments and Netflix's refusal to pull the comedy special, The Closer, led to protests on the streets of Hollywood.

Those who have criticized Chapelle's jokes have specifically cited the physical danger faced by the trans community as a result of anti-trans ideology.

The family of a trans woman who Chappelle said was hounded to death for defending his jokes in a 2019 Netflix show have slammed the woke mob trying to cancel him, saying they do not know how much he did for her.

Daphne Dorman was 44 when she killed herself in 2019 after defending her friend Chappelle for jokes made during a Netflix special that year.

'When she did that, the trans community dragged that b**** through Twitter,' Chappelle told the audience in The Closer.

'For days, they was going in on her and she was on her own because she's funny,' he continued, hinting the harassment might have contributed to her suicide.

'It's a true story; my heart was broken. I don't know what was going on, but I'll bet dragging her didn't help.'

Dorman, who began transitioning in 2014, was an up-and-coming comedian who opened a show for Chappelle.

Her humor veiled a dark past mired by a troubled childhood that left her with severe PTSD, her family said.

But despite her inner demons, she tapped into her comedy to make the world around her laugh, her sister said.

Her sister brushed off critics who have slammed Chappelle's transgender jokes, saying the comedian 'loved' Dorman and said people cannot demand that 'everyone see it your way'.
A young British Army soldier died after suffering a devastating head injury when the tank he was driving flipped during a training exercise, an inquest heard today.

Private Jethro Watson-Pickering was behind the wheel of the armoured vehicle which was carrying two other soldiers when its gun barrel struck a tree.

The 23-year-old had a 'significant' and fatal head injury as a result of the accident at midday and tragically died, a coroner was told.

The soldiers were training in Salisbury Plain, Wilts, near the village of Enford on October 15 when the tank flipped.

Army engineers reportedly had to cut trapped soldiers free from the overturned tank and Pte Watson-Pickering was pronounced dead at the scene and identified by a colleague, Salisbury Coroner's Court heard.

Pte Watson-Pickering, from the village of Boosbeck, near Redcar on Teesside, was serving with the 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment.

Private Jethro Watson-Pickering (pictured) was behind the wheel of the armoured vehicle which was carrying two other soldiers when its gun barrel struck a tree

Coroner Ian Singleton opened the inquest but then adjourned it while Wiltshire Police and the Health and Safety Executive investigate.

Mr Singleton said: 'On October 15 he was involved in military training, he was the driver with two others inside. At 12.00 they were travelling off road when the barrel of the vehicle struck a tree, causing it to rotate, striking him in the head.

'He sustained significant injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene that day.'

Mr Singleton said an examination showed Pte Watson-Pickering 'died of a head injury' and added a full examination will be conducted.

Mr Singleton said the young soldier was identified by a colleague who had worked with him for a year.

The soldiers were training in Salisbury Plain, Wilts, near the village of Enford on October 15 when the tank flipped. Pictured, the scene after the soldier's death

Mr Singleton said an examination showed Pte Watson-Pickering 'died of a head injury' and added a full examination will be conducted. Pictured, the training area

The coroner also said: 'His death is being investigated by police and the Health and Safety Executive which will take some time.'

An inquest review will take place in April next year, Mr Singleton said.

Following Pte Watson-Pickering's tragic death, an Army spokesman said 'thoughts and sympathies of the Army are with the family and friends of Pte Watson-Pickering at this very sad time'.

Posting online at the time, The Yorkshire Regiment said: 'The Yorkshire Regiment very much regrets to announce the death on Friday October 15 of Pte Jethro Watson-Pickering.

'He was from Boosbeck, Redcar, Cleveland and was deployed on exercise on Salisbury Plain.

'The thoughts and prayers of the regimental family are with his family. Fortune Favours the Brave'.'

No family members attended the five-minute hearing at Salisbury Coroner's Court today.
Brazil senators have asked the country's high court to suspend President Jair Bolsonaro from social media after he claimed the Covid-19 vaccine was linked to AIDS.

The Senators on Tuesday called for the president to be barred indefinitely from YouTube, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram after he cited non-existent 'official reports' from the British government allegedly finding fully vaccinated people are developing AIDS 'much faster than expected.'

Bolsonaro made the claim on Thursday in his weekly live address on Facebook, which has removed the video for violating its policies on spreading misinformation.

YouTube went a step further Monday, suspending Bolsonaro for a week, in addition to blocking the clip.

The request came as the Senate commission, which has spent the past six months investigating the Bolsonaro government's pandemic response, prepared to vote on a damning final report.

It recommends the president face multiple charges, including crimes against humanity, for downplaying Covid-19 and flouting expert advice on containing it.

The pandemic has claimed more than 606,000 lives in Brazil, second only to the United States.

A Senate panel probing the Brazilian government's pandemic response has asked the Supreme Court and prosecutor general's office to suspend President Jair Bolsonaro from social media for falsely linking Covid-19 vaccines to AIDS

Facebook and Instagram removed the live stream on Sunday after it was flagged for making false statements about the Covid-19 pandemic.

In it, Bolsonaro said: 'I'm just going to report it, I won't comment. I've talked about it in the past, I've been beaten a lot... here we go: official UK government reports suggest that the fully vaccinated... who are the fully vaccinated?

'Second dose, right... 15 days later, 15 days after the second dose... fully vaccinated... they are developing Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) much faster than expected,' the far-right leader said.

'So, read the article, I won't read it here because I may have problem with my live (stream).'

After the video was removed, a Facebook spokesperson told Brazilian outlet Folha de Sao Paulo: 'Our policies do not allow for claims that Covid-19 vaccines kill or can cause serious harm to people.'

Carlos Lula, president of National Council of Health Secretaries, condemned Bolsonaro's misinformation claims on Monday, the outlet also reported.

'It imposes a burden on people with HIV. Another regrettable chapter in this successions of absurdities by the president during the fight against the pandemic,' he said.

Bolsonaro has frequently had his videos removed from social media sites - including 15 removed from his YouTube channel in July alone - because of misinformation.

He has rallied against vaccinations - and vowed never to get the jab -, branded Covid-19 a 'little flu' and constantly attacked measures set in place to combat the spread of the virus.

His rhetoric, according to Porto Alegre councilwoman Karen Santo, was partially to blame when anti-vaxxers with swastika signs clashed with legislators holding a Covid-19 vaccine passport mandate on Wednesday.
Nicola Sturgeon today bowed to pressure by easing testing rules for arrivals in Scotland ahead of the COP26 summit.

The SNP leader announced that double-jabbed international travellers will now be able to take lateral flows instead of the more expensive PCRs on day two of their stay.

The move brings Scotland into line with England, which announced the rules were being loosened earlier this month and implemented the change at the weekend.

The tests should be bookable from 5pm on Friday, with arrivals after 4am on Sunday - the first day of the UN climate gathering in Glasgow - benefiting. Laterals should cost between 20 and 30 less than PCRs.

Some of the dignitaries attending were exempt from the day two rules, but many others expected to descend on Glasgow were not.

Ms Sturgeon has been under growing pressure over preparations for COP26 after her critics warned she risks embarrassing the UK on the world stage.

The UN summit will take place from October 31 to November 12 as Mr Johnson welcomes world leaders to the city to hammer out a plan to reduce harmful emissions.

But there are fears the crunch gathering could be overshadowed by a variety of problems, with the SNP being told to 'fix the issues in their own back yard'.

Train staff are set to go on strike during the summit in a move which could cause massive disruption for travelling delegates.

Council bosses have been under fire over the cleanliness of the city as they denied that bins are overflowing.

Ms Sturgeon has been slammed by opposition politicians for lecturing world leaders on how to achieve a cleaner planet after photographs showed streets in her own Glasgow constituency littered with rubbish.

Meanwhile, the summit has prompted hotel prices to surge to unprecedented levels amid reports that delegates unable to find accommodation will stay in neighbouring towns and cities, making them reliant on potentially patchy train services.



Nicola Sturgeon (right today) bowed to pressure by easing testing rules for arrivals in Scotland ahead of the COP26 summit - bringing the rules into line with Boris Johnson's (left) in England

Some of the dignitaries attending COP26 were exempt from the day two testing rules, but many others expected to descend on Glasgow airport (file picture) were not

Ms Sturgeon has been slammed by opposition politicians for lecturing world leaders on how to achieve a cleaner planet after photographs showed streets in her own Glasgow constituency littered with rubbish

Photographs taken yesterday showed a variety of litter on the streets of the Govanhill area of Glasgow

Opposition politicians called the situation an 'international embarrassment' at a time when the focus of the world's media is on the city

Addressing the Scottish Parliament this afternoon, Ms Sturgeon said the summit will 'inevitably' pose a risk of transmission of Covid-19.

But she insisted work has been done to mitigate the effects.

She said: 'The hosting of Cop26 would always have been a significant challenge for the UK and Scottish governments and Glasgow City Council.

'However, the fact it is happening amidst the global pandemic makes it even more so.

'It is inevitably the case that it poses a risk of increased Covid transmission.

'I want to assure Parliament and the public, however, that the Scottish Government has been working closely with the United Nations and the UK Government to mitigate these risks as far as possible.'

Most delegates will be double vaccinated, those from outside the common travel area will have to show proof of a negative test and those on the red list will have to stay in managed quarantine.

Those in the blue zone will have to carry out daily lateral flow testing and follow hygiene mitigations.

Ms Sturgeon gave a speech yesterday in which she lectured world leaders on how they should protect the environment.

However, at the very same time that the First Minister was urging politicians to take 'credible actions' to achieve net zero emissions and a cleaner planet, photographs were taken of streets in her own constituency 'overflowing with rubbish'.

Less than two miles from the main arena where the COP26 summit begins on Sunday, piles of rubbish, fly-tipped items and overflowing bins were clear for all to see in the Govanhill area of Glasgow Southside, which Ms Sturgeon represents at the Scottish Parliament.

Sodden mattresses, dumped couches and pile after pile of bursting black bin bags remained uncollected on pavements and at street corners.

Meanwhile, addressing students at Strathclyde University in the city, the SNP leader spoke of encouraging 'national governments to match the ambition of cities, regions and state governments'.

Opposition politicians called the situation an 'international embarrassment' at a time when the focus of the world's media is on the city.

Conservative MSP for the Glasgow region Dr Sandesh Gulhane said: 'Nicola Sturgeon said Scotland should use the 'power of our example' to lead the fight against climate change  yet what kind of example is it that the streets of our First Minister's own constituency are overflowing with rubbish?

'The mess in Glasgow's streets is on track to become an international embarrassment.

'Our city has got into this state due to years of SNP incompetence and neglect, at both the Government and council level.

'Nicola Sturgeon and the SNP must urgently fix the issues in their own back yard if they want to have any credibility discussing environmental issues on the international stage.'

Concern has been growing for months over fly-tipping and litter in Glasgow, which critics say has been fuelled by charges for the bulk uplift of domestic waste.

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said: 'Credibility begins at home  with bins collected, trains running and Glasgow flourishing.

'Instead, rubbish is lining the streets in the First Minister's own back yard, while her government misses their own climate targets. If Nicola Sturgeon is serious about credible action, she should take some.'

Glasgow's council leader yesterday denied bins are overflowing and rubbish collectors have needed hospital treatment for rat attacks, as she insisted the city is ready to host COP26.

Susan Aitken said Glasgow is ready 'with caveats' for the UN conference and none of the problems the city faces is 'enough to cause panic'.

Concern has been growing for months over fly-tipping and litter in Glasgow, which critics say has been fuelled by charges for the bulk uplift of domestic waste

Sodden mattresses, dumped couches and pile after pile of bursting black bin bags remained uncollected on pavements and at street corners

The UN COP26 summit will take place in Glasgow from October 31 to November 12. The Hydro, one of the venues being used for the summit, is pictured yesterday

Giving evidence to Westminster's Scottish Affairs Committee about preparations for COP26, Ms Aitken argued that other cities are dirtier than Glasgow and she is 'not embarrassed' about its condition.

She said it is 'entirely gratuitous' to suggest the city is in a state of disrepair but that cleansing staff are 'working round the clock' ahead of the climate summit.

The Glasgow City Council leader said: 'The COP26 co-ordinating board within the council met last week and the verdict was that we are ready, with caveats.

'I would say the caveats are mainly technical, some of them have already been resolved or are being ticked off. None of them were massive, none of them were enough to cause panic.'

Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross asked whether the 'technical issues were that the bins are overflowing, there's rats in the streets and some of your employees have been taken to hospital while collecting that rubbish?'

Ms Aitken denied that was the case, although she later admitted that there have been 'small incidents' where rubbish collectors had been taken to hospital after 'very minor contact with a rat'.

The rows over rubbish came amid fears that train worker strikes could cause significant disruption during the summit.

There are reports that thousands of delegates were unable to find accommodation in Glasgow and intend to travel by train from neighbouring cities.

Time magazine reported that as early as January this year hotels were hiking prices for November to 500 per cent of normal levels.

Scotland's transport minister Graeme Dey said this morning the 'signs are not optimistic' in preventing ScotRail staff from going on strike during COP26.

The country is just days away from potential industrial action on Scotland's railways due to an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions.

Council bosses have insisted that Glasgow is ready to welcome world leaders for the gathering

The RMT rail union, which represents ScotRail workers who are planning to strike, said the latest pay offer was 'pitiful.'

Speaking about the potential strikes on BBC's Good Morning Scotland programme, Mr Dey said: 'This is a situation that we have tried extremely hard to avoid.

'We find ourselves in a perplexing and deeply disappointing situation.'

The RMT said 'a gun is being pointed at its head' after a Wednesday deadline was set for accepting a recent pay offer.

Mr Dey said with the country less than a week away from the climate change summit, the Scottish Government has had to focus on making alternate travel plans if the offer is not accepted by tomorrow.

Rail services in Scotland have been crippled for months by strike action, with few trains running on Sundays. Three other unions have since settled their disputes with ScotRail.

The summit will take place as Scotland continues to record elevated coronavirus case numbers.

The latest figures published yesterday showed a further 2,240 coronavirus cases in the previous 24 hour period.

The daily test positivity rate was 10.3 per cent, up from 9.9 per cent the previous day.

Coronavirus case numbers in Scotland remain at elevated levels with 2,240 new cases confirmed yesterday

There were 902 people in hospital in Scotland on Sunday with recently confirmed Covid-19, up three in 24 hours, with 57 in intensive care, down one.

Asked yesterday about the state of Glasgow as it prepares to host COP26, Ms Sturgeon said: 'I think there are challenges in Glasgow and challenges in cities across Scotland, the UK, the world  some of them related to Covid, some of them more fundamental than that.

'I'm not going to stand here and say they don't exist in Glasgow. I think Glasgow is ready for COP26.

'Glasgow  as it has been with big events in past years  will be an excellent host for COP26, and that's important.

'But  as all countries do  we have challenges in our public services and how we make sure they're delivering in the post-Covid era.'
Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn) has blamed Minneapolis police officers for rising crime rates in the city because they are not 'providing the public safety they owe to the citizens they serve'.

Omar accused the Minneapolis police department of 'not fulfilling their oath of office' during a town hall event in the city this past weekend, and said that there is 'no accountability' for what the police are doing.

Her comments came just three weeks before the 2021 Minneapolis elections in which voters will tackle a controversial proposal to disband the city's police department and replace it with the Department of Public Safety.

Omar's speech was met with incredulity from many commentators who pointed out she had actively campaigned to dismantle the police department and cut its funding.

In December last year, the Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously to slash around $8 million in direct police department funding in the wake of the 'defund the police' movement following the death of George Floyd.

Floyd, 46, was killed in May 2020 when Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin pressed him down into the pavement for nine minutes with a shin on his neck.

The former police officer was found guilty of Floyd's murder earlier this year and was sentenced to 22 and a half years in prison - the longest sentence ever handed out to a police officer for use of excessive force.

Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn) has blamed Minneapolis police officers for rising crime rates in the city because they are not 'providing the public safety they owe to the citizens they serve' (pictured: Omar in July 2021 in Washington DC)

In December last year the Minneapolis City Council voted unanimously to slash around $8 million in direct funding to the city's police department in the wake of the 'defund the police' movement (pictured: Minneapolis police officers dressed in riot gear, November 2020)

George Floyd (left) died on May 25, 2020, after Minneapolis Police officer, Derek Chauvin (right) knelt on his neck for more than nine minutes. Chauvin was found guilty of murder in April

In a speech given at the town hall event in Minneapolis on Saturday, Omar ripped into the 'dysfunctional' Minneapolis police department and blamed them for the city's rising crime rates.

'What we must also recognize is that the reduction in policing currently in our city and the lawlessness that is happening is due to two things,' Omar said.

'One, the police have chosen to not fulfil their oath of office and to provide the public safety they are owed to the citizens they serve.

'The Minneapolis police department is the most dysfunctional police department in our state and probably in the country.'

Minneapolis PD has been under pressure since George Floyd, 46, was killed when Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin pressed him down into the pavement for nine minutes with a shin on his neck (pictured: demonstrations in Minneapolis in April after Chauvin was found guilty of Floyd's murder)

The former police officer was found guilty of Floyd's murder earlier this year and was sentenced to 22 and a half years in prison, but pressure for major police reform in the city remains high (pictured: city council member Alondra Cano speaks in Powderhorn park in Minneapolis, June 2020)

Omar's comments were generally met with incredulity on social media, with many users pointing out that her derision of the Minneapolis police department for their perceived underperformance came just months after she campaigned to slash the law enforcement budget.

Author and columnist Jonah Greenberg tweeted: 'Woman who wanted to dismantle the Minneapolis PD, now says crime is due to Minneapolis PD not doing enough police work'.

Another user, Zaid Jilani, said it was 'interesting' that the congresswoman was blaming the police 'for depolicing' and declared that the Minneapolis PD's ineffectiveness is the very result that the city's councillors had campaigned for.

Violent crime surged nearly 17 percent across Minnesota last year, including a record number of murders, according to data released in July by the Minnesota state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

'The police have chosen to not fulfil their oath of office and to provide the public safety they are owed to the citizens they serve,' said Omar at the weekend. 'The Minneapolis police department is the most dysfunctional police department in our state and probably in the country.'

Omar's comments were generally met with incredulity on social media, with many users pointing out her derision of the Minneapolis police department for their perceived underperformance came just months after she campaigned to slash the law enforcement budget

One user, Zaid Jilani, said it was 'interesting' that the congresswoman was blaming the police 'for depolicing' despite actively pushing to cut their budgets and impose restrictions on their ability to carry out police work

Omar's questionable comments come just weeks before the city of Minneapolis hosts a mayoral election on November 2 in which a number of questions for amendments to the city's charter will be tackled.

One question on the ballot addresses a proposal to completely disband the city's police department and replace it with the Department of Public Safety.

Should voters opt in favour of the proposal, the Minneapolis Police Department would be removed from the city charter and replaced with the Department of Public Safety.

The mayor of Minneapolis would then nominate a commissioner of the new department, which would introduce a 'comprehensive public health approach', but with no mandatory minimum of police and law enforcement staffing.

Minneapolis Police Chief Medaria Arradondo (pictured 2020) faces the axe along with the whole police department if voters opt in favour of replacing the department with the Department of Public Safety next month

There has been widespread calls for police reform in Minneapolis since the death of George Floyd in May 2020 (Pictured: People gathered in downtown Minneapolis following the sentencing of Derek Chauvin to call for continual police reform, June 2021)

The debate around the need for police reform in the city has been raging ever since George Floyd was killed by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in May last year.

Floyd died on May 25, 2020, after Chauvin knelt on his neck for more than nine minutes.

Video of the incident went viral, sparking protests against police brutality across the United States and beyond.

Chauvin was fired by the Minneapolis Police Department in the aftermath and was found guilty of second-degree unintentional murder, third-degree murder and second-degree manslaughter in April.

On June 25, Chauvin received a sentence of 22 and a half years in prison.
Facebook's algorithm promoted 'toxic and hateful' content by giving five points to posts with emojis including 'angry and sad' and only one for those that received likes, leaked documents claimed today.

The firm's algorithm, which decides what people see on a newsfeed, was allegedly programmed to use the reaction emoji as a sign to push more provocative content.

The five emojis of 'love,' 'haha,' 'wow,' 'sad' and 'angry' were launched five years ago to give users an alternative way to react to content aside from the traditional 'like'.

But a ranking algorithm meant emoji reactions were treated as five times more valuable than 'likes', according to internal papers revealed by the Washington Post.

This idea behind this was that high numbers of reaction emojis on posts were keeping users more engaged - a crucial element to Facebook's business model.

But it meant content that created strong reactions such as hate and anger were shown to more people than more benign posts that people merely 'liked' - amplifying online arguments.

The five Facebook emojis of 'love,' 'haha,' 'wow,' 'sad' and 'angry' were launched five years ago to give users an alternative way to react to content aside from the normal 'like'

And the company's own researchers and scientists found that posts prompting angry reactions were far more likely to include misinformation and low-quality news.

One staffer allegedly wrote that favouring 'controversial' posts such as those making people angry could open 'the door to more spam/abuse/clickbait inadvertently'.

Another is said to have replied: 'It's possible'. In 2019, its data scientists confirmed the link between posts sparking the angry emoji and toxicity on its platform.

This means Facebook stands accused of promoting the worst parts of its site for three years - making it more prominent and seeing it reach a much bigger audience.

It would have also had a negative effect on the work of its content moderators who were trying to reduce the amount of toxic and harmful posts being seen by users.

Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen told MPs yeterday that the firm is 'unquestionably' making online hate worse because it is programmed to prioritise extreme content

The discussions between staff were revealed in papers given to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress by the lawyers of Frances Haugen.

How Facebook's profits shot up as daily active users hit 1.93billion Facebook profits shot higher as the number of daily active users on its site and apps hit 1.93billion on average in September. This was 6 per cent up on last year. Around 3.6billion people used Facebook or one of its other platforms - which include WhatsApp and Instagram - last month. Facebook's profits shot 17 per cent higher to 6.7billion in the third quarter amid the jump in users. But the company's revenues fell short of Wall Street forecasts as Apple's new privacy rules hit sales. Since April, Apple has required all apps to ask users if they want to be tracked, which has made it harder for advertisers to target the right audiences. It said Apple's new regime would continue to hit business for the rest of the year. Facebook's total revenue - most of which comes from advertising - rose to 21billion in the third quarter. This was 400million below expectations - though it was more than a third higher than the same period of last year when companies had put their marketing budgets on ice during the pandemic. Advertisement

The whistleblower said in London just yesterday that Facebook was 'unquestionably' making online hate worse because it is programmed to prioritise extreme content.

Miss Haugen told MPs and peers that bosses at the firm were guilty of 'negligence' in not accepting how the workings of their algorithm were damaging society.

The American data scientist claimed the tech giant was 'subsidising hate' because its business model made it cheaper to run angry and divisive adverts.

She said there was 'no doubt' the platform's systems would drive more violent events because its most extreme content is targeted at the most impressionable people.

Miss Haugen also issued a stark warning to parents that Instagram, owned by Facebook, may never be safe for children as its own research found it turned them into addicts.

She also told the joint committee on the draft Online Safety Bill that it was a 'critical moment for the UK to stand up' and improve social media.

The Bill will impose a duty of care on social media companies to protect users from harmful content and give watchdog Ofcom the power to fine them up to 10 per cent of their global turnover.

Facebook is currently battling a crisis after Miss Haugen, a former product manager at the firm, leaked thousands of internal documents that revealed its inner workings.

Its founder Mark Zuckerberg has previously rejected her claims, saying her attacks on the company were 'misrepresenting' the work it does.

Yesterday the committee highlighted how the tech giant had previously claimed it removes 97 per cent of hateful posts on the platform.

But leaked research showed its own staff estimated that it only took down posts that generated around 3 to 5 per cent of hate speech and 0.6 per cent of content that breached its rules on violence and incitement.

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg (pictured) has previously rejected the claims made by Miss Haugen, saying her attacks on the company were 'misrepresenting' the work it does

Asked about hate speech, Miss Haugen said: 'Unquestionably it is making hate worse.'

She said Facebook was 'very good at dancing with data' to make it seem as though it was on top of the problem but was reluctant to sacrifice even a 'slither of profit' to make the platform safer.

The committee also heard how Facebook's research found that 10 to 15 per cent of ten-year-olds were on the platform  despite the minimum age being 13.

Lord Black of Brentwood noted that the Bill exempts legitimate news publishers from its scope, but that there is no obligation for Facebook and other platforms to carry such journalism as they would have to observe the codes of the regulator.

AI would effectively be making these decisions, he said, and asked if Miss Haugen trusted AI to make these types of judgment.

Miss Haugen said the Bill should not treat a 'random blogger' the same way as a recognised news source as this would dilute users' access to high quality news on the platform.

She said: 'I'm very concerned that if you just exempted across the board you will make the regulations ineffective.'

She further warned that 'any system where the solution is AI is a system that's going to fail'.

The thumbs up 'Like' logo is shown on a sign at Facebook's offices in Menlo Park, California

In response to the Washington Post report about emojis, a Facebook spokesman told MailOnline today: 'We continue to work to understand what content creates negative experiences, so we can reduce its distribution. This includes content that has a disproportionate amount of angry reactions, for example.'

Mr Zuckerberg also spoke about the issue on October 6, saying: 'The argument that we deliberately push content that makes people angry for profit is deeply illogical.

'We make money from ads, and advertisers consistently tell us they don't want their ads next to harmful or angry content. And I don't know any tech company that sets out to build products that make people angry or depressed. The moral, business and product incentives all point in the opposite direction.'

And in reponse to yesterday's hearing on the Draft Online Safety Bill, a Facebook spokesman said today: 'Contrary to what was discussed at the hearing, we've always had the commercial incentive to remove harmful content from our sites.

'People don't want to see it when they use our apps and advertisers don't want their ads next to it. That's why we've invested $13billion and hired 40,000 people to do one job: keep people safe on our apps.

'As a result we've almost halved the amount of hate speech people see on Facebook over the last three quarters - down to just 0.05 per cent of content views.

'While we have rules against harmful content and publish regular transparency reports, we agree we need regulation for the whole industry so that businesses like ours aren't making these decisions on our own. The UK is one of the countries leading the way and we're pleased the Online Safety Bill is moving forward.'

And finally, on the subject of safety, misinformation and harmful content, a Facebook spokesman said: 'Every day our teams have to balance protecting the ability of billions of people to express themselves openly with the need to keep our platform a safe and positive place.

'We continue to make significant improvements to tackle the spread of misinformation and harmful content. To suggest we encourage bad content and do nothing is just not true.'
Lawmakers weighing how to limit the spread of disinformation and control the power of Facebook and other social media giants are turning their attention to regulating the powerful artificial intelligence programs that drive them.

Washington has made little progress in stepping up regulation of big tech and has been hamstrung by First Amendment protections on free speech.

But Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen told senators this month that the best way to do it was to focus on the powerful machine-learning architecture that promotes certain content.

The implications were spelled out on Tuesday, when leaked documents revealed how Facebook spent three years making misinformation and clickbait more prominent in users' news feeds to keep them more engaged with its network.

It offers an alternative strategy for lawmakers wary of banning types of speech entirely.

Targeting algorithms - automated actions that rank content or direct users to relevant adverts, for example - could ensure that harmful content is spread less widely.

'The algorithms driving powerful social media platforms are black boxes, making it difficult for the public and policy makers to conduct oversight and ensure companies' compliance, even with their own policies,' Senator Ed Markey, a Massachusetts Democrat, told Bloomberg.

Sen Ed Markey is one of the lawmakers who has set his sights on the algorithms that power social media giants in an effort to provide better oversight of such far-reaching technology

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg consults with his legal team as he testifies at a House committee hearing in Washington as social media companies come under scrutiny

A Facebook whistleblower has claimed the company drives engagement by picking out content that is divisive in order to increase reactions from users

He is one of a number of lawmakers to have recently introduced bills that would ensure algorithms would operate in a more transparent manner.

That took on growing urgency with evidence provided by Haugen to a Senate subcommittee at the start of the month.

'One of the consequences of how Facebook is picking out that content today is that it's optimizing for content that gets engagement, or reaction,' she told 60 Minutes ahead of her appearance.

'But its own research is showing that content that is hateful, that is divisive, that is polarizing  it's easier to inspire people to anger than it is to other emotions.'

Lawmakers have long discussed whether the huge power of companies such as Google and Facebook mean they should be broken up.

But Haugen's testimony, outlining how unseen A.I. programs sent users radicalized information ahead of the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, has changed the direction of debate.

'It's heartening to see Congress finally beginning to focus on the heart of the problem,' Rep. Tom Malinowski (D-N.J.), told the Washington Post recently.

'The heart of the problem is not that there's bad stuff posted on the Internet. It's that social networks are designed to make the bad stuff spread.'

Even Facebook is coming around.

'We need greater transparency,' said Nick Clegg, vice president for global affairs at Facebook, on CNNs 'State of the Union recently.

'[Our algorithms] should be held to account, if necessary by regulation, so that people can match what our systems say theyre supposed to do and what actually happens.'

Former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower France Haugen gave evidence to British MPs this week after copying thousands of pages of internal research documents

The five Facebook emojis of 'love,' 'haha,' 'wow,' 'sad' and 'angry' were launched five years ago to give users an alternative way to react to content aside from the normal 'like'

On Tuesday, it emerged that Facebook spent three years making misinformation and clickbait more prominent in users' news feeds to keep them more engaged on its network.

The firm's algorithm, which decides what people see on a newsfeed, was allegedly programmed to use the reaction emoji as a sign to push more provocative content.

The five emojis of 'love,' 'haha,' 'wow,' 'sad' and 'angry' were launched five years ago to give users an alternative way to react to content aside from the traditional 'like'.

But a ranking algorithm meant emoji reactions were treated as five times more valuable than 'likes', according to internal papers revealed by the Washington Post.

This idea behind this was that high numbers of reaction emojis on posts were keeping users more engaged - a crucial element to Facebook's business model.

However, the company's own researchers and scientists found that posts prompting angry reactions were far more likely to include misinformation and low-quality news.

One staffer allegedly wrote that favouring 'controversial' posts such as those making people angry could open 'the door to more spam/abuse/clickbait inadvertently'.

Another is said to have replied: 'It's possible'. In 2019, its data scientists confirmed the link between posts sparking the angry emoji and toxicity on its platform.

This means Facebook stands accused of promoting the worst parts of its site for three years - making it more prominent and seeing it reach a much bigger audience.

It would have also had a negative effect on the work of its content moderators who were trying to reduce the amount of toxic and harmful posts being seen by users.

The discussions between staff were revealed in papers given to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress by the lawyers of Haugen.

The whistleblower was in this week and said that Facebook was 'unquestionably' making online hate worse because it is programmed to prioritise extreme content.

She told MPs and peers that bosses at the firm were guilty of 'negligence' in not accepting how the workings of their algorithm were damaging society.

The American data scientist claimed the tech giant was 'subsidizing hate' because its business model made it cheaper to run angry and divisive adverts.

She said there was 'no doubt' the platform's systems would drive more violent events because its most extreme content is targeted at the most impressionable people.

Haugen also issued a stark warning to parents that Instagram, owned by Facebook, may never be safe for children as its own research found it turned them into addicts.

She also told the joint committee on the draft Online Safety Bill that it was a 'critical moment for the UK to stand up' and improve social media.

The Bill will impose a duty of care on social media companies to protect users from harmful content and give watchdog Ofcom the power to fine them up to 10 per cent of their global turnover.

Facebook is currently battling a crisis after Haugen, a former product manager at the firm, leaked thousands of internal documents that revealed its inner workings.

Its founder Mark Zuckerberg has previously rejected her claims, saying her attacks on the company were 'misrepresenting' the work it does.
The gun that Rust actor Alec Baldwin used to accidentally kill cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was reportedly used by crew members hours before the incident to shoot at beer cans, an insider with knowledge of the set has revealed.

The individual, who spoke under the condition of anonymity to The Wrap, divulged to the outlet that several crew members on the film's Santa Fe set had taken several prop guns out the morning of the incident to go 'plinking' - a hobby in which people shoot at beer cans with live ammunition to pass the time.

According to the insider, the round of unsanctioned target practice occurred last Thursday, just hours before Baldwin discharged one of the weapons again, this time while filming a scene, accidentally shooting director Joel Souza and Hutchins.

Actor Alec Baldwin unknowingly fired the gun that killed a cinematographer on the set of his new film in Santa Fe, after being told by the film's assistant director that the gun wasn't loaded

Halyna Hutchins, 42, a Ukranian filmmaker and journalist and cinematographer on the film, succumbed to her injuries after the accidental shooting

While Souza was hit in the shoulder and was not critically wounded, Hutchins, 42, succumbed to her injuries later that day.

Prior to the incident, first assistant director David Halls told crew members that the revolver being handled by Baldwin, the film's lead actor and producer, was a 'cold gun,' a term used by filmmakers to indicate that a prop gun is safe to handle and not loaded with live ammunition.

The weapon was one of three prop guns that the film's rookie armorer, Hanna Gutierrez Reed, 24, had set up outside the set location on a gray cart, in the desert near the city of Santa Fe.

According to search warrant executed by the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office last week, Gutierrez Reed was the last person to handle the gun, leaving it along with the two other revolvers unattended on the cart in the early hours of October 21.

It is at this point, the insider reveals, that a group of crew members took the weapons without the director and first director's knowledge, and forgot to unload the firearm in question.

Representatives for the production of Rust did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment on the matter, but in a previous statement issued to multiple outlets, Rust Movie Productions said: 'The safety of our cast and crew is the top priority of Rust Productions and everyone associated with the company.

According to search warrant executed by the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office last week, armorer Hanna Gutierrez Reed was the last person to handle the gun, leaving it along with the two other revolvers unattended on the cart in the early hours of October 21

Rookie armorer Gutierrez Reed, 24, was the last person to handle the firearm, before it was swiped by crew members for a round of unsanctioned target practice

'Though we were not made aware of any official complaints concerning weapon or prop safety on set, we will be conducting an internal review of our procedures while production is shut down.

'We will continue to cooperate with the Santa Fe authorities in their investigation and offer mental health services to the cast and crew during this tragic time.'

However, an actor on the film's set directly contradicted the company's statement, revealing to TMZ Tuesday that filming often felt 'life-threatening' - a sentiment that was then echoed by other members of the production.

The actor, Ian A. Hudson, told to the outlet that he felt particularly terrified filming a scene where his character was gunned down by a crowd of other actors using nearly a dozen guns - all of which were real.

Prior to the incident, first assistant director David Halls told crew members that the revolver being handled by Baldwin (not pictured), the film's lead actor and producer, was a 'cold gun'

'I actually did feel the blanks hitting my face and my body. I could feel the wind from the shotgun being discharged,' the actor said, 'It was heavy. It was strong  It was life-threatening. It felt too surreal.'

Hudson then noted and some of the other actors would often double and triple-check their weapons regardless of whether they were given the OK from the film's armorer and staff.

Hudson also revealed that the production on a 'rushed schedule' - a sentiment that was echoed by both the newly released search warrant and the insider's revelation to The Wrap.

And he told of how cameras and crew were protected by plastic shields - but that cast members were left without any sort of barrier.

The warrant confirmed that six members of the films camera crew, members of the protesting IATSE, had walked off the set the day of the incident - citing qualms about housing, payment and working conditions - forcing producers to scramble to find replacements.

The incident took place on set at the Bonanza Creek Ranch in the desert just outside Santa Fe

Alec Baldwin is pictured sobbing after shooting and killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of his upcoming movie Rust in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Thursday

What's more, according to The Wrap's insider, instead of shutting down production once they found themselves suddenly shorthanded, producers elected to hire replacements outside of the union in order to continue the shoot.

This monkey wrench in the film's operations - on the day of the accidental shooting -caused shooting Thursday to start late, Souza told an investigator after the incident, according to the warrant.

But even with the crew in disarray and the fact that one of the set's prop guns was placed out in the open and was at some point loaded before a scene, experts have attested that there are systems in place on the set of any film, to ensure prop guns are inspected before they even enter an active set.

For that reason alone, Gutierrez Reed, Halls and Baldwin could face a series of legal - or even criminal - ramifications.

According to the warrant, Souza revealed that the cast and crew prepared the scene before lunch and then had their meal away from the shooting location around 12:30 pm.

The director then told investigators that he was not sure if the gun was checked again when everyone returned from lunch.

He did, however, state that protocol dictates that props are supposed to be checked by the armorer, Gutierrez Reed, and then the assistant director, Halls, before finally handing them over to the actor.

He also specified to Santa Fe sheriffs that he could not recall if people were checked for live ammunition while on set - but stated that live ammunition should not have been anywhere near the scene that day, or any other for that matter.

An investigation concerning the incident is still ongoing.

No criminal charges have been filed.
President Joe Biden issued the Covid-19 Hate Crimes Act in May to prevent the surge in anti-Asian American crimes

Of the 6,780 known perpetrators, 55 percent of them were white

Hate crimes against Asian communities in the U.S. increased by 76 percent last year compared with the number of similar incidents in 2019, the FBI said

The number of hate crimes reported in 2020 was the highest recorded in two decades, according to new FBI data released on Monday

The number of hate crimes reported in the U.S. in 2020 was the highest recorded since 2001, according to newly released data from the FBI, that also showed a 76 percent increase in anti-Asian hate crimes.

According to the FBI's Hate Crime Statistics report, anti-Asian incidents significantly increased from 158 in 2019 to 279 in 2020, even though they only make up a small percentage of the 8,263 total hate crimes reported in 2020,

Overall, most of last year's hate crimes  nearly 50 percent of them  were against black people. Meanwhile, 55 percent of known perpetrators that started these hate crimes were white, while 21 percent were black or African American.

'Every hate crime is an attack on the community,' Jay Greenberg, deputy assistant director of the FBI's criminal division, told ABC News.

The FBI's 2020 data came from 15,138 law enforcement agencies around the country. Roughly half of all hate crime incidents disclosed were labeled as intimidation, while 27 percent were simple assault and nearly 18 percent were classified as aggravated assault (which the FBI categorizes as 'physical attacks intended to inflict severe or aggravated bodily injury').

After hate crimes that involved race, which made up the majority of the cases, 20 percent involved sexual orientation bias, 13.3 percent were biases related to religion, 2.7 percent involved gender identity bias (which means attacks against transgender and non-binary people), 1.4 percent involved disability bias, and 0.7 percent involved gender bias.

Of the 7,750 hate crime offenses classified as crimes against persons in 2020, 53.1 percent were for intimidation, 27.9 percent were for simple assault, and 17.9 percent were for aggravated assault. Twenty-two murders and 21 rapes were reported as hate crimes. The remaining 32 hate crime offenses were reported in the category of other.

The report, released on Monday, found 8,263 criminal hate crime incidents were reported to the FBI in 2020, an increase of about 504 incidents since 2019. The spike comes as more local law enforcement agencies report crime incidents in their jurisdictions to the FBI compared to previous years.

Of the 3,147 hate crime offenses classified as crimes against property, 74.1 percent were acts of destruction, damage, or vandalism. Robbery, burglary, larceny-theft, motor vehicle theft, arson, and other offenses accounted for the remaining 25.9 percent of crimes against property.

More than 230 additional offenses were classified as crimes against society. This crime category represents societys prohibition against engaging in certain types of activity such as gambling, prostitution, and drug violations. These are typically victimless crimes in which property is not the object.

The report, published on Monday, also modified an August report for 2020 that failed to mention all of Ohio's data due to a technical error, the FBI said.

In 2001  the year of the September 11 attacks  people reported 9,730 incidents motivated by bias, the most in the last two decades. The year with the fewest hate crimes was in 2014 (5,462) but figures have gradually increased ever since, with the exception of 2018, when there was a slight decrease.

Stop AAPI Hate, a coalition of Asian American and Pacific Islander advocacy groups and scholars, has previously made aware that anti-Asian hate crimes have gone up exponentially since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

The group has received reports of nearly 10,000 incidents since March 2020, with 43 percent of targeted victims of Chinese descent.

Though anti-Asian incidents made up just a small percentage of the 8,263 hate crimes reported in 2020, they did rise significantly, from 158 in 2019 to 279 in 2020, according to the FBIs Hate Crime Statistics report

After a rise in hate crimes against Asians across the nation, groups are speaking up and demanding more attention to the issue. PICTURED: Protesters rally in D.C. to call attention to Asian-American discrimination and remember the Asian-American lives lost in a series of shootings in Atlanta in March.

Reports of hate-inspired attacks on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have been on the rise, spurred by what many say were then-President Donald Trump's inflammatory remarks blaming the COVID-19 pandemic on China.

He famously dubbed coronavirus 'the China virus' and 'kung flu', and in March earlier this year, eight people, six of whom were Asian women, were killed at three different parlors in the Atlanta metro area. Following the shooting, mass protests against anti-Asian violence occurred in cities across the world.

Researchers have long said that hate crimes are likely underreported, with a survey concluding that 35 percent of Asian Americans would be 'uncomfortable' telling the police they were targeted in a hate-related incident. The survey was published this last spring.

Greenberg encouraged anyone who believes they were a victim of a hate crime to contact law enforcement. Incidents can be reported to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI or by submitting a tip on the FBI's website.

'We would like the public to reach out to us if they believe that they are a victim of a hate crime,' Greenberg told ABC News. 'It's not for the public to make that determination; we will work with our state and local partners and help determine how best to investigate that.'

In May, Attorney General Merrick Garland had already outlined new steps to help state and local police track and investigate hate crimes, which historically have been under-reported to the FBI, and called for the department to expedite the review of possible crimes.

'These hate crimes and other bias-related incidents instill fear across entire communities and undermine the principles upon which our democracy stands,' Garland said.

'All people in this country should be able to live without fear of being attacked or harassed because of where they are from, what they look like, whom they love or how they worship.'

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland (pictured) reminded the general public that the data collected by the FBI does 'not account for the many hate crimes that go unreported.'

A hate crimes bill proposed by President Biden to combat violence against Asian Americans passed the U.S. Senate in May with overwhelming bipartisan support.

The new law will expedite Justice Department reviews of hate crimes by putting an official in charge of the effort. Federal grants will be available to help local law enforcement agencies improve their investigation, identification and reporting of bias-driven incidents, which often go unreported.

Some activists opposed the legislation's reliance on law enforcement.

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who is black and Indian, discussed reports of stabbings, shootings and other attacks against Asian American and Pacific Islander individuals and their businesses since the start of the pandemic a little over a year ago.

Harris said such incidents had increased six-fold during that time.

At the time of the bill's approval, she said that while the new law brings the U.S. closer to stopping hate, 'the work to address injustice, wherever it exists, remains the work ahead.'

President Joe Biden signed the COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act into law in May, surrounded by members of Congress

The AAPI complimented Biden for quickly signing the bill. But executive director Varun Nikore said the law is 'only one piece in the long fight' for equity and opportunity for communities of color.

Nikore said Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders will use the 'electoral prowess' they demonstrated last year to elect leaders who will advocate for their community.

'Ending Asian hate should never be a partisan issue,' he said.

The bill-signing marked a fleeting moment of bipartisanship in a Congress that has struggled all year to overcome partisan gridlock over issues ranging from COVID-19 aid to the definition of 'infrastructure' regarding the Biden administration's ongoing $3.5 trillion tax plan.
Britain's mass coronavirus testing programme could be abandoned in the new year, one of the Government's experts hinted today.

Professor Lucy Chappell, chief scientific adviser to the Department of Health, told MPs that officials were committed to the routine asymptomatic swabbing scheme until the end of 2021.

But she admitted ministers were considering ditching the widespread use of lateral flow tests 'beyond January'.

Other experts said it is time to shift who is tested regularly, as the UK learns to live with the virus.

No10 launched its ambitious mass-testing scheme to great fanfare in April. But the system  a key part of the 37billion Test and Trace programme  has repeatedly been derided since its inception.

All adults are currently entitled to pick up two free testing kits a week, which can be collected from pharmacies or ordered online.

They are intended to be used by people when they do not show symptoms of Covid to pick up the estimated one in five cases that are asymptomatic and ensure people isolate.

But the kits have been criticised over fears they are inaccurate, especially when self-administered.

Whitehall sources have already revealed the system will soon start to cost taxpayers billions of pounds.

Professor Lucy Chappell (left), chief scientific adviser to the Department of Health and Social Care, said the Government was committed to mass testing  including of schoolchildren  until at least January but is considering dropping the programme after that. But Sir Andrew Pollard (right), who was part of the team that created the Oxford/AstraZeneca vaccine, said the Government should move quicker and end mass testing in schools earlier this winter

ENGLAND TESTING: England's lateral flow testing skyrocketed in March this year after No10 introduced a programme to swab all schoolchildren

UK didn't focus enough on airborne transmission of Covid at start of the pandemic, Government adviser admits Britain didn't focus enough on airborne Covid transmission at the beginning of the pandemic, a Government adviser today admitted. Professor Andrew Curran, chief scientific adviser for the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)  which issues the Government's official workplace guidance, told MPs Covid advice may have overemphasised surface cleanliness, instead of the need for proper ventilation. Speaking to the Science and Technology Committee, he said the recommendations have shifted as experts learn more about the virus. Top scientists initially feared the coronavirus was spread mainly via surfaces such as door handles, post boxes and desks at the start of the crisis last year. It led to Government-issued guidance to businesses which instructed them to spend thousands of pounds on cleaning products to wipe down PCs and door handles for when employees returned to the workplace. But research has since shown the risk of transmission from touching contaminated surfaces is low, nailing aerosol droplets as the main way the virus transmits between people. Professor Curran today said Britain should have focused more on stopping airborne transmission at work. He added that thousands of offices which have been spot-checked by the HSE have not been following all of the agency's guidance, which includes advice on cleaning, hygiene and ventilation. Advertisement

Asked about whether the nation should move away from testing asymptomatic people at the Commons' Science and Technology Committee, Professor Chappell said: 'In the short term, I think we should be continuing with testing, particularly symptomatic individuals.

'And I know that other groups are evaluating at what point we reconsider testing asymptomatic individuals beyond January, beyond spring.'

But she added: 'I would like to think that in five years' time we won't all be lateral flow testing. There's a stretchable point between those five years clearly.

'Between now and January, it's clear that we have committed to testing. We are then reconsidering where we go beyond January, beyond spring.'

Sir Andrew Pollard, part of the team that created the AstraZeneca vaccine, said the Government should end mass asymptomatic testing in schools before January.

Currently, secondary school and college pupils in England are told told to take two lateral flow tests a week as part of measure to curb the spread in classrooms.

If they test positive they have to stay at home until a PCR test confirms they do not actually have the virus at least two days later  even if they are asymptomatic.

Addressing MPs in the same briefing, Sir Andrew said it was was 'absolutely critical we keep children in school'.

He added the biggest impact of the pandemic in children was the psychological effect of being forced to stay home.

Professor Pollard argued only symptomatic pupils  who would already be required to stay home because of their illness  should have to take a test.

He told MPs: 'Clearly, the large amount of testing in schools is very disruptive to the system, whether that is the individual child who is then isolating because they tested positive but they're completely well, or because of the concerns that that raises more widely in the school.

'We're aware of families taking their children out because someone's tested positive in a school.

'So I think there is a huge impact of widespread testing in schools.

'I think probably we need to move in the pandemic, over this winter, maybe towards the end of the winter to a completely different system of clinically-driven testing.

'In other words, testing people who are unwell rather than having regular testing of those people who are well.'

Sir Andrew added: 'That does drive a lot of these actions that happen, particularly in schools, if you have lots of asymptomatic testing.'

He argued it was 'an inevitable future' not to be 'testing at this rate for Covid forever', adding: 'We need to think about how that transition works.

'There's clearly a lot more transmission at the moment and that adds some additional pressures on the NHS because there are some individuals going into hospital and more than there were before, but I think we are in improving situation.'

Data from Test and Trace shows the proportion of children being told they are positive for Covid when they don't have the virus by lateral flow devices has doubled in the last month (red line). More than one in ten positive results from lateral flows are incorrect

The mass testing scheme  a watered down version of No10's ambitious 'Operation Moonshot' 10million-tests-a-day project  was launched on April 9.

Former Health Secretary Matt Hancock said at the time it would be 'one of our most effective weapons in tackling this virus'.

Previously, the tests were only used routinely in schools, hospitals and care homes.

Ministers spent 2.8billion on hundreds of millions of the kits, which give a result in as little as 30 minutes. They have been shown to miss infectious people up to 40 per cent of the time.

Numerous studies have shown the kits are far less accurate when self-administered  which is how they're used across the UK.

Leaked Department of Health emails in April revealed senior officials feared they only picked up 10 per cent of infections when done this way.
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Daily Covid cases across the UK have fallen for the third day in a row and hospital admissions have plateaued, official data shows.

The Department of Health said there were 40,954 new infections in the past 24 hours, marking a 6 per cent fall on the figure last Tuesday. Today's tally includes three days' worth of data from Wales because of a technical glitch, meaning the true week-on-week drop is likely even greater.

Infections have been on the decline since Sunday following an 18-day surge, which experts believe is the result of half-term, growing natural immunity in children and booster vaccines.

Meanwhile, latest UK hospital data shows there were 916 admissions for the virus on October 22, down less than one per cent on the number the week prior.

The number of Covid inpatients, however, has climbed to its highest level for more than seven months. A total of 8,693 patients were in hospital on October 25  the most since March. The figures are still well below those seen at the peak of the second wave of coronavirus, however, when there were 40,000 beds filled by Covid patients.

The only daily metric on the rise today was deaths, with the 263 registered up almost 18 per cent in a week  the highest figure since March. However, fatalities have also been skewed upwards the technical fault at Public Health Wales.

The promising infection numbers are in line with some of the more optimistic projections from No10' Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE).

But not all scientists advising the Government agree, with many on SAGE publicly lobbying for masks, working from home and vaccine passports to safeguard against rising cases in winter.

Downing St was forced to defend its decision not to revert to Plan B today after leaked Government documents showed the contingency plans could cost the economy 18billion this winter. A separate paper from the Culture Department has raised concerns vaccine passports could be 'counter-productive' and drive people to poorly ventilated pubs.

Don't 'bash' Britain for having a bigger Covid outbreak than Europe because continent is lagging behind in testing, top Oxford expert says It is unfair to 'bash' Britain over its large Covid outbreak compared to Europe because it is testing up to ten times more people, an Oxford expert has said. Official figures show the UK currently has the highest infection rate on the continent, except for a few countries in eastern Europe. But it is carrying out the second highest number of swabs for the virus. Only Austria is carrying out more tests per 1,000 people. Professor Sir Andrew Pollard, who helped design the AstraZeneca vaccine, warned today it was not helpful to compare Britain's Covid infection rate to other countries. He told a Parliamentary committee: 'Im not trying to deny that theres not plenty of transmission, because there is, but its the comparisons that are problematic. 'If you look across Western Europe, we have about 10 times more tests done each day than some other countries, this is per head of population. So we really have to always adjust by looking at the data.' He pointed to hospitalisations and deaths because these were less impacted by the differences in testing  but Britain is also outpacing its neighbours on these metrics. Europeans have been looking over at the UK with concern, trying to fathom why the 'sick man of Europe' has such a high infection rate. But there are early signs other countries are catching up, with Germany, the Netherlands and Belgium all starting to see cases soar. Advertisement

In other coronavirus developments:

Sir Professor Andrew Pollard, who helped design the AstraZeneca vaccine, told MPs it is unfair to 'bash' Britain over its large Covid outbreak compared to Europe because it is testing up to ten times more people;

It was revealed the firm at the centre of a testing blunder that allowed tens of thousands of Covid-infected patients to roam the streets is still processing private travel PCR swabs;

Data showed only a dozen areas of England have now not recorded a single case of an offshoot of the Delta Covid variant that experts fear is even more transmissible;

A Government adviser said Britain didn't focus enough on airborne Covid transmission at the beginning of the pandemic.

Modelling by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine for SAGE had cases dropping from next month without any additional restrictions, to as low as 5,000 per day through winter.

Scientists said that a combination of booster vaccines, growing natural immunity in children and a reduction in classroom mixing during the October half-term break would drag cases down.

SAGE has previously been criticised for overegging the scale of the country's outbreak, but Dr Simon Clarke, from the University of Reading, said it looked like this time they 'had a high chance of being right'.

But the microbiologist told MailOnline: 'Just as people criticised the shortcomings of pessimistic models we have to apply the same scepticism to such optimistic ones. But the team at LSHTM are very good at what they do.'

Professor Paul Hunter, an epidemiologist at the University of East Anglia, said he 'trusted' the LSHTM model, adding: 'Over the next few weeks, we should start seeing a substantial fall in cases followed by hospitalisations.'

The optimistic trends and forecasts have given No10 the confidence to reject growing calls for it to revert to Plan B, which would see compulsory masks and WFH guidance return, as well as the introduction of vaccine passports.

It comes as leaked documents suggested imposing the measures could cost the economy up to 18billion.

Papers drawn up by the Cabinet Office's coronavirus task force and the Treasury detailed the potential cost of mandatory mask wearing and vaccine passports, along with the return of work from home guidance.

Obtained by the Politico news website, the internal Treasury impact assessment suggests the measures lasting throughout winter until the end of March would cost the economy between 11billion and 18billion.

However, the Government insisted there is 'no planned five-month timeline' as it disputed the assumptions in the document and maintained there is currently no need for Plan B.

While scientists believe working from home will have the greatest effect on transmission, the leaked documents suggested mandatory vaccine certification at large venues would have a 'moderate' impact.

The assessment said the move for venues such as nightclubs and music venues could reduce transmission at large events by 40-45 per cent and in the wider community by between 1 and 5 per cent.

A Government spokesman said: 'The presumptions put forward here are untrue, and do not reflect Government policy. The data does not currently show that Plan B is necessary  and there is no planned five-month timeline.'

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said Plan B would only be bought in when 'pressure on the NHS is unsustainable' as he defended the measures as allowing 'venues to remain open and remain trading'.

'We are confident the Plan B measures taken as a package will help curb Covid cases while also striking that important balance of allowing parts of the economy to remain open that will otherwise face severe restrictions or even closure,' he added.

Meanwhile, a separate impact assessment raised concerns over possible knock-on effects of the introduction of mandatory vaccine passports.

The Telegraph reported that the document from the Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) warned the move could encourage people to instead go to poorly ventilated pubs and therefore be 'counter-intuitive and potentially counter-productive'.

It also suggested that the turnover of venues hit by the move could drop between 345million and 2billion.

LONDON SCHOOL OF HYGIENE AND TROPICAL MEDICINE: These charts show the impact of returning to normal level of social mixing in three months (bottom) versus remaining cautious for a year - and the impact this would have on infections (left), admissions (middle) and deaths (right). The models show cases plummeting by November in both scenarios thanks to natural immunity but rising in spring (bottom) when vaccine protection is expected to wane

Firm that runs Wolverhampton testing lab suspended after testing scandal is STILL processing travel PCR tests The firm at the centre of a testing blunder that allowed tens of thousands of Covid-infected patients to roam the streets is still processing private travel PCR swabs, it was revealed today. Up to 43,000 people, mostly in the South West of England, were wrongly told they were negative for the virus due to 'technical issues' at a private lab in Wolverhampton, run by Immensa.

The error has been linked to the recent explosion in Covid cases in the region, where a record one in 45 residents are now estimated to have the virus. Operations at the facility  where workers were filmed playing football and wrestling on shift  were suspended after the error was finally spotted on October 15. But it has now emerged Immensa is continuing to process and profit from PCR results for international travellers who buy tests for up to 68 through its sister company Dante Labs. Professor Kit Yates, a senior lecturer in mathematical biology at the University of Bath, described the situation as 'an absolute scandal', adding: 'How can anyone have any confidence in them?' Immensa  which was awarded nearly 170million by the Government to analyse PCR samples last spring  has insisted that all swabs, including for travel, are being redirected from the Wolves lab. The company also runs a facility in Cambridge. Advertisement

A DCMS spokesman said: 'There is good evidence to suggest certification would have a beneficial impact on infection rates and it would also avoid the need for capacity caps or closures.

'There is currently no evidence to suggest that businesses have been impacted by lower attendance when certification is used, with various venues already using this on entry throughout the year.'

But Greg Parmley, the chief executive of the Live music industry body, said the leak shows the move to mandatory use of passports 'would be a mistake'.

'These passports would cost the live music industry billions of pounds while aspects of the rollout would be impractical and potentially dangerous,' he said.

Top experts have questioned the need for more restrictions, now that there are signs the epidemic is already flatlining. Professor Hunter told MailOnline he expects a 'substantial and rapid fall' in the epidemic in the coming weeks, which defeats the purpose of Plan B.

He said the booster vaccines will top up half of the population's immunity, adding: 'The boosters are working much better than we first thought they would.'

And children, who are responsible for the recent surge, will have acquired significant natural and jab-induced protection, according to Cambridge University epidemiologist Dr Raghib Ali.

The half-term school holiday  which for many schools started today  will act as a mini firebreaker and bring down cases further, experts believe.

But neither Professor Hunter nor Dr Ali believe cases will plunge to as low as 5,000 per day, partly because of the emergence of the new even more transmissible strain of Delta.

Yet other scientists have warned it is impossible to accurately predict how the outbreak will unfold and that Plan B measures  such as WFH guidance and face masks  should be brought back now to control rising infections just in case.

Professor Martin McKee, a public health expert based at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, said he would be 'very cautious about making firm Christmas arrangements' because of the 'high' number of cases and emergence of the AY.4.2 variant which appears 'more transmissible than Delta'.

And Professor Stephen Reicher, a member of the independent Scientific Pandemic Insights group SPI-B which feeds into SAGE, questioned the accuracy of his colleagues' modelling.

He told MailOnline making predictions about infection levels is a 'notoriously inaccurate pastime'. Efforts should instead focus on what can be done to bring cases down, he said.

Professor Reicher said the key ways of reducing infections are behavioural  increasing vaccine uptake, limiting contacts, including by working from home, increasing ventilation and ensuring infected people self-isolate.

To do this, 'clear and consistent messaging about the need to bring infections down and how to do so' is needed, he said.

'Now the messaging is all over the place, often inaccurate, and even suggesting that infections don't matter at which point why do anything,' he said.
The friend of a woman allegedly raped by a Met Police officer threatened to call 999 to get him out of their flat, a court has heard.

James Geoghegan, 27, from Aylesbury in Buckinghamshire, is accused of raping the woman in her home in the early hours of December 12, 2018. He denies the charge.

Jurors at Chelmsford Crown Court heard from the woman's friend, who lived with her in their flat in Loughton, Essex, at the time of the alleged incident.

The friend told how the woman and Metropolitan Police officer Geoghegan returned in the early hours of the morning 'drunk, but not overly drunk' and began playing music, singing and dancing and drinking vodka.

Later on, before heading to work, the witness told the court she heard someone 'shouting stop, stop' in a 'panicked' way.

Chelmsford Crown Court heard that the friend of a woman allegedly raped by Met Police officer James Geoghegan, 27, threatened to call the police on if he didn't leave her home. Geoghegan denies the charge

The friend said: 'I heard a door shut, I turned around and then (the woman) came out of my bedroom, she wasn't expecting me to be there.

'She was crying and looked very upset... she had wrapped herself up in a throw and was hysterically crying.'

She added: 'I had never seen her like that before, she was hysterical, she wouldn't talk even though I asked 'what's happened?' but she didn't say anything - she was silent.

'She laid on the sofa - to begin with she wouldn't say anything and I kept asking and she finally said "he's basically just raped me".'

The woman told her friend that she had asked Geoghegan to 'stop' but that he had 'not listened', the court heard.

Geoghegan was then told by the friend to leave the flat but he was confused as to why, jurors were told.

The witness continued: 'I threatened to call the police because he was just lying there, I didn't want him in the flat.

'It was a threat to get him out.'

In a message to the friend after the incident was reported to police, the woman said 'I don't want any of this', the court heard.

Jurors were also read out WhatsApp messages between Geoghegan and the woman on the day.

In one, the woman told him she would not tell a mutual friend what had happened, to which he replied 'you're too much of a princess'.

She also told him 'I'm putting it down to a drunken misjudgement' and 'I'm not going to get you in trouble'.

The court previously heard Geoghegan had decided to sleep at the woman's flat instead of returning to his home in Enfield, north London, before following the woman into her room 'uninvited' as she was undressing.

The woman had said that after the defendant removed her shorts she put her hand over her genitals to try to 'block' him, but 'he took my hand away and pinned it to the bed'.

The trial continues.
White House officials held dozens of meetings with business leaders last week who urged the administration to put off private industry vaccine mandates until after the holidays  and meetings have continued into this week.

Leaders from labor unions, industry lobbyists and private individuals met with officials from the Office of Management and Budget, which is responsible for crafting the rule ordered by Joe Biden's executive order mandating vaccines for private companies.

OMB officials met with additional groups and individuals on Monday and have more lined up Tuesday  including those representing trucking companies, dentists and realtors, among others, according to CNBC.

The National Retail Federation, the American Trucking Association and the Retail Industry Leaders Association are asking the White House to give businesses 90 days to comply with the mandate.

This would delay implementation until late January at the earliest.

Also on October 15, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce asked during a meeting with OMB to delay implementation until after the holiday season.

Last month, Biden announced a new executive order that would require all companies with at least 100 employees to garner proof of vaccination from all of their workers. Those who receive exceptions from their employees can opt for at minimum weekly testing instead.

Several business leaders are urging the White House to delay implementing Joe Biden's new private sector vaccine mandate until January because it could cause a worker shortage around the holidays

Warning emerged that truck drivers will likely quit rather than give into the vaccine mandate, which would further exacerbate the already disrupted nation-wide supply chain shortage when the trucking industry is already short 80,000 drivers

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), which falls under the Labor Department, delivered its final draft of the rule to OMB on October 12. The mandate is expected to take effect shortly after the review process is completed.

Some companies have already implemented their own timeline for the mandate in anticipation of the rule going into effect and the Labor Department beginning oversight on the issue.

On Tuesday, the American Trucking Associations will meet with OMB officials after warning last week that drivers will likely quit rather than give into the vaccine mandate coming from the White House.

This would further exacerbate the already disrupted nation-wide supply chain shortage when the trucking industry is already short 80,000 drivers and bottlenecks at ports are causing major delays in goods delivery.

'Placing vaccination mandates on employers, which in turn force employees to be vaccinated, will create a workforce crisis for our industry and the communities, families and businesses we serve,' the association's president and CEO Chris Spear wrote in a letter to OMB on Thursday.

The association has estimated the mandate could cause them to lose 37 per cent of drivers by way of retirement, resignation and workers moving to companies with less than 100 employees.

A Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) poll taken last month shows that 30 per cent of unvaccinated workers would rather leave their jobs than comply with Biden's mandate or alternative testing requirements.

Besides trucking, retailers are also concerned the mandate could trigger resignations in an industry also short on workers, according to a lobbyist at the Retail Industry Leaders Association, Evan Armstrong.

'It has been a hectic holiday season already, as you know, with supply chain struggles,' Armstrong told CNBC after a meeting with White House officials last Monday.

'This is a difficult policy to implement. It would be even more difficult during the holiday season.'

A poll last month shows 30% of unvaccinated workers would rather lose their job than get the jab. Here a bottleneck at the Port of Los Angeles shows stacks of shipping containers awaiting truckers to pick them up on Monday evening and transport them across the nation

More than 40 groups and individuals requested meetings with OMB and Labor officials regarding concerns and confusion over Biden's new vaccine mandate for private companies.

It is not typical for this high number of groups to request meetings over an impending rule, which exhibits the increased interest in how the Biden administration crafts and implements the vaccine requirement that will affect at least 80 million U.S. workers.

Biden vowed earlier this year that he would never implement a vaccine mandate on private industry, but broke that promise last month in announcing the new mandate.

While federal officials are entertaining these meeting requests, they are not required to take all of them and can still release the rule whenever it is completed.

Some groups who either requested or already had meetings include the National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association (NLBMDA), the Corn Refiners Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the National Retail Federation and American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), the nation's largest union federation.

Other companies include Walt Disney, Stellantis, an auto conglomerate, and conservative think tanks Americans for Prosperity and the Ethics and Public Policy Center.
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BUDGET 2021: WHAT WE ALREADY KNOW RISHI WILL 'REVEAL' TODAY The Government has already announced spending worth more than 30billion which Rishi Sunak will confirm at the Budget later today. Below is a breakdown of some of the most notable funding pledges: The national minimum wage will increase from 8.91 to 9.50 from April next year.

An extra 6billion will be given to the NHS to pay for new equipment and new facilities to clear the Covid backlog.

Brownfield sites covering the equivalent of 2,000 football pitches could be turned into plots for housing as part of a 1.8billion injection.

A 2.6billion pot of funding will be set up to help children with special educational needs and disabilities.

Levelling up transport outside of London will benefit to the tune of nearly 7billion, paying for a range of projects, including tram improvements.

The Department of Health and Social Care will receive 5billion over the next three years to fund research and development in areas such as genome sequencing and tackling health inequalities.

A cash injection of 3billion will be given to both post-16 education but also to adults later in life.

850million will be spent over three years to 'breathe life' back into cultural hotspots like London's V&A museum, Tate Liverpool and the Imperial War Museum in Duxford.

Ageing Border Force vessels will be replaced by new cutters as part of a 700million investment to improve the safety of Britain's borders. Advertisement

Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle stepped up his war of words with the Government today as he tore into Rishi Sunak over a slew of pre-Budget policy announcements.

The Chancellor will deliver his eagerly awaited Budget tomorrow in front of MPs but the Treasury has set out numerous policies in the media ahead of the financial statement.

That approach has prompted repeated rebukes from Sir Lindsay, who is adamant all policy announcements should be made to politicians first.

Sir Lindsay, who has made a point of rebuking ministers for making announcements outside the Commons, criticised ministers over the approach yesterday and did the same again this afternoon after more fiscal details were briefed.

The Commons Speaker accused Mr Sunak and the Treasury of treating Parliament in a 'discourteous manner' as he vowed to do everything in his power to ensure ministers answer MPs' questions.

Meanwhile, MPs on both sides of the chamber expressed their anger at the Government's communications strategy, accusing ministers of 'treating parliamentary democracy with utter contempt'.

It is the latest stand-off between the Speaker and ministers. In June Boris Johnson agreed to make major Covid decisions to Parliament as well as to the nation on television after he was given a blunt telling off.

Sir Lindsay granted a second urgent question in two days to force Treasury ministers to appear in the Commons to answer questions on the forthcoming fiscal event.

He said the ministerial code states important announcements of Government policy should be made to Parliament first when it is in session.

Sir Lindsay told the Commons: 'I was disappointed to see more stories in the media today with apparently very well-briefed information about what will be in tomorrow's Budget.'

He accused the Government of treating the Commons in a 'discourteous manner', adding: 'This House will not be taken for granted, it's not right for everybody to be briefed, it's not more important to go on the news in the morning, it's more important to come here.'

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Simon Clarke defended the Government as he argued part of the objective in 'trailing specific aspects of the Budget in advance is to help communicate to the public what we're doing with their hard-earned money'.

Responding to a pre-Budget urgent question from Labour, he said: 'The ability of Parliament to scrutinise the Government, including the Budget, is clearly crucial which is why we've got five days of parliamentary debate ahead of us this week and next and why the the Chancellor will be appearing in addition in front of two select committees of this House next week.'

He said the 'bulk of the detail of the Budget' will be set out by Mr Sunak in the Commons tomorrow.

He added: 'Part of the Government's objective in trailing specific aspects of the Budget in advance is to help communicate to the public what we're doing with their hard-earned money because we believe there is merit in clear and accurate information.'

Mr Clarke faced criticism from both Labour and Tory MPs.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle today stepped up his war of words with the Government as he blasted Rishi Sunak for making pre-Budget policy announcements.

The Chancellor will deliver his Budget tomorrow but the Treasury has set out numerous policies ahead of the financial statement

Mr Sunak joked that his dog Nova had not been very excited by the proposals he will unveil tomorrow

Conservative Julian Lewis asked the minister: 'Why is it important, right or necessary to share Budget information with the media before it is shared with this House where it can be subjected to proper scrutiny? And will he give an undertaking on behalf of the Treasury team to stop doing it?'

Labour's Angela Eagle added: 'This is treating parliamentary democracy with utter contempt, and the minister should be completely ashamed of himself, he should have come to this House and apologised, his boss should have come to this House and apologised.'

Sir Lindsay has repeatedly tackled ministers on their habit of making political announcements at press conferences and in briefings to the press.

In January he hit out at Boris Johnson again for setting out his lockdown decision at a press conference instead of to MPs.

The Commons Speaker told the Commons the Prime Minister 'should be here, I'm sorry if his dinner would have been affected' after Mr Johnson announced an extension of coronavirus measures to the media.

He accused the PM of 'running roughshod' over Parliament, and said Number 10's treatment of Parliament has been 'totally unacceptable' as he again stressed that announcements should first be made at the despatch box.

In June he summoned the PM for showdown talks amid a furious bust-up over the four-week lockdown delay.

Mr Johnson was slapped down by Sir Lindsay for 'disrespecting' MPs with a live television broadcast from Downing Street - because MPS should have been the first to be told.

Yesterday he referenced the 1947 resignation of Hugh Dalton, who quit as Labour chancellor after parts of his Budget were published in in a paper before he gave his speech, in an attack on Mr Sunak.

On his way into the chamber he told John Carvel, a reporter for the now defunct Star newspaper: 'No more on tobacco; a penny on beer; something on dogs and pools but not on horses; increase in purchase tax, but only on articles now taxable; profits tax doubled.'

The reporter managed to turn around the information faster than the chancellor could announce it and the politician stepped down the following day.

It created a Whitehall precedent that leaking a Budget in advance was the most serious of leaks. But that rule has been eroded in recent years, with leaks of information starting under New Labour.

Sir Lindsay said: 'At one time ministers did the right thing if they briefed before a Budget - they walked.'

Shouts of 'resign' could be heard, with the Speaker adding: 'Yes, absolutely, resign. It seems to me we've got ourselves in a position that if you've not got it out five days before, it's not worth putting out.

'I've got to say, members are elected to this House to represent their constituents, those constituents quite rightly expect the MP to hear it first in order to be able to listen to what the Budget is about, but also for the days following that to be able to hold them to account. It's not acceptable and the Government shouldn't try to run roughshod over this House, it will not happen.'

Pre-Budget prep for the Millennial era! Rishi poses up a storm in socks and 90 plastic sliders as he loads up on Twix bars and cans of Sprite (but is there anything in the box we don't know already?)

Rishi Sunak posed up a storm in socks with sliders today as he put the final touches to his Budget - fuelled by Twix bars and cans of Sprite.

The Treasury released a series of glossy photographs of the Chancellor preparing for his big day with aides, and his dog Nova.

He was pictured in one of his trademark grey sweatshirt, as well as American-style footwear that comes with a hefty 95 price tag.

Mr Sunak is vowing to create a 'stronger economy for the British people' after the pandemic caused chaos and sent the national debt spiralling to more than 2.2trillion.

But he is also under huge pressure to invest in infrastructure and services, as well as helping people through a burgeoning cost of living crisis.

Business chiefs today warned prices will rise after Mr Sunak teed up his financial package by declaring wages are to spike 6.6 per cent for the low-paid, and dropped the freeze for public sector workers.

Firms said they cannot keep soaking up costs after the Chancellor announced that the national living wage is going up from 8.91 to 9.50 an hour. One pub chain said 25p-30p will need to be added to the price of a pint of beer.

There has been speculation that he could slash the 5 per cent VAT rate on household energy bills to help millions of families struggling with the inflation squeeze.

However, Treasury sources have played down the prospect, saying he believes the move will subsidise richer households while doing too little for the poorest.

In pictures released by No111 today Rishi Sunak was pictured in one of his trademark grey sweatshirt, as well as American-style footwear that comes with a hefty 95 price tag

Mr Sunak was seen poring over his Budget plans in the photographs issued by the Treasury this afternoon

Mr Sunak was in one of his famous grey zip-up jumpers - although it is unclear what the side zip would be used for

The Chancellor was being put through his paces by aides in the official images ahead of his Budget speech

The combination of ending the pause on public sector pay and increasing the minimum wage would provide a salary boost to up to seven million workers. But higher wages will mean higher costs for employers which are likely to be reflected in price increases, fuelling a further surge in inflation.

Critics have warned it would be 'unfair' to ask the private sector to fund a salary hike for the public sector given the 'extraordinary economic pain' caused by the pandemic.

Clive Watson, executive chairman of the City Pub Group, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme the hospitality industry was 'coming off life support' but could not deal with more pressure.

'We cannot absorb all these increased costs whether it is the energy costs whether it is food inflation, whether it is labour costs so the only way forward for us is to put the price of beer and food up in our pubs,' he said.

'No-one wants to do that but I reckon the price of beer would probably have to go up 25p-30p a pint to take account of all these increased costs.'

It comes as Mr Sunak has been forced to ditch a 2.84p budget hike in fuel duty because of record petrol prices, with the average forecourt price per litre hitting a record 142.94p on Sunday.

The hated levy was due to go up from 57.95p per litre to 60.79p, potentially costing drivers 66 extra a year per car. But MPs say they have been assured by the Treasury that the scheduled 4.9 per cent rise for 2022 will not go ahead.
Beaconsfield MP Joy Morrissey said paying surgeries to see more patients face-to-face or at home would pressure off hospitals during the busy winter period in the NHS

GPs should get cash incentives for making face-to-face appointments this winter, an MP claimed today.

Conservative Joy Morrissey, who represents Beaconsfield in Buckinghamshire, said the money would push doctors to see more patients in person.

And she told the Commons that it may ease pressure on hospitals during the busier winter months for the NHS because it would have a 'trickle down' effect, stopping patients unnecessarily going to A&E.

Her comments come amid a growing row between medics and ministers over face-to-face consultations, which continue to be below pre-pandemic levels.

Around eight in 10 doctor appointments took place in GP surgeries before Covid hit the UK properly last March, but latest figures for August show only 58 per cent took place face-to-face.

Department for Health bosses revealed plans to increase patient access, including a controversial 'name and shame' strategy.

But it was met with huge backlash from family doctors, who have now threatened industrial action over the proposal.

The number of GP appointments taking place face-to-face tumbled at the start of the pandemic when surgeries were told to see patients remotely where possible. But despite the country largely returning to normal, in-person visits are yet to climb back to pre-pandemic levels. The above graph shows the number of face-to-face GP appointments (red line) by month since the end of 2019

Mrs Morrissey said: 'If we want to reduce the overall burden on the NHS this winter, finding a safe and secure way for more residents to see their GP will reduce the overall pressure long-term on the NHS.'

'It perhaps is something that each time a GP sees someone in-person they could get an extra payment or an additional payment for visiting someone in their home.

'That way that mitigates the additional cost of PPE and also the additional risk posed to the GP themselves by having to see in-person during Covid or during high levels of winter flu.'

NHS cancer care WILL be sacrificed again this winter if Covid cases spiral Top doctors also claimed survival rates could stall over the next decade due to the impact of coronavirus on the NHS. During the pandemic thousands of cancer patients had vital treatment cancelled or postponed as staff and hospital beds were diverted towards Covid. Professor Mike Griffin, a prominent cancer surgeon, admitted he is concerned care 'will take a hit again in the coming weeks over winter' due to the pressures already facing the NHS. Increasing numbers of people attending A&E, a lack of hospital beds and nursing and social care shortages could cause problems, he said. Professor Pat Price, a consultant clinical oncologist, told politicians on the Health and Social Care Committee cancer units have been ordered to make sure a tenth of their workforce are available to be redeployed to NHS frontlines this winter. And MPs heard how oncologists were made to 'clear bedpans' on Covid wards or redeployed as 'mortuary assistants' instead of treating cancer patients. Meanwhile, a patient revealed she faced 'Covid-related obstacles' when receiving care for stage four breast cancer. Cancer screening, referrals and treatment services were all disrupted by the Covid pandemic. During the height of the crisis, from March 2020 to February 2021, 369,000 fewer people than expected were referred to a specialist with suspected cancer, according to the Institute for Public Policy Research. Professor Griffin, also the president of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, said that while the 15 years to 2019 had seen a 10 per cent improvement in cancer survival, it was unlikely to continue over the next decade. Advertisement

She pointed to similar incentive schemes which had been set up at some surgeries to screen for diabetes and cervical cancer.

Practices are currently funded based on the number of patients on their list.

Mrs Morrissey told MPs how her disabled mother-in-law's stroke was misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection because she could not see a GP during lockdown and warned the shift to virtual appointments 'could be fatal'.

The delay to her care led to 'terrible damage' and her mother-in-law is 'now completely disabled and needs 24-hour care'.

She said: 'I can say I speak from experience. For days my own mother-in-law was misdiagnosed as having a UTI when, in fact, she had suffered a severe stroke.

'Precious time was lost and terrible damage done because she was not seen by a GP.

'For every hundred ailments that could be diagnosed safely by not seeing a GP, there will be one that won't, one that could prove to be fatal, and that is not a price worth paying.'

Amid growing calls for more in-person appointments, Health Secretary Sajid Javid revealed plans earlier this month to give surgeries 250million to boost capacity for face-to-face consultations.

The plans also included publishing league tables that would out surgeries which do not see enough patients in-person.

But the British Medical Association, the union for doctors, rejected the proposals and is considering balloting its members on whether industrial action should be taken in response.

BMA GP committee chairman Dr Richard Vautrey yesterday wrote to GPs telling them not to feel pushed to see more people in-person and refuse take on new patients.

Dr Vautrey told doctors they should 'not feel pressured to return to a traditional ten-minute treadmill of face-to-face consultations'.

The union also advised GPs to reject many patients sent their way by hospitals or the NHS 111 service 'to focus on the needs of existing patients'. It also said doctors should not carry out extra shifts during evenings or weekends.

Some MPs have held meetings with local surgeries have met with or written to GPs to discuss in-person appointments, according to Pulse.

Greg Smith, MP for Buckingham, said his local practice has taken action so patients can get in-person appointments when they need one.

And Simon Clarke, MP for Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, has asked local surgeries to detail the methods they use when a patient asks for an appointment.
This is the moment a female Met officer is crushed by an undercover police car during a robbery chase in South London today.

Video shared on social media shows the officer running to the boot of her vehicle on Rowan Road in Mitcham at around 10am.

A black unmarked police car then approaches but doesn't stop in time, ramming into into the officer who can be heard screaming in pain.

This is the moment a female Met officer is crushed by an undercover police car during a robbery chase in South London today

Video shared on social media shows the officer running to the boot of her vehicle on Rowan Road in Mitcham at around 10am on Tuesday

Scotland Yard confirmed that the officer was taken to hospital, and that none of her injuries are deemed to be life-threatening.

Witnesses claimed that police were in pursuit of another vehicle when five men jumped out and ran away during an operation. Police said they were later arrested.

A Met Police spokesman said: 'On Tuesday, 26 October at 9.58am, officers from the Met's South West Command executed an anti-robbery operation in Mitcham.

The incident took place on Rowan Road in Mitcham, South London at 10am on Tuesday

A black unmarked police car then approaches but doesn't stop in time, ramming into into the officer who can be heard screaming in pain

'An authorised pursuit of a vehicle was undertaken after it failed to stop for police when requested. The suspect vehicle came to a stop and the occupants fled on foot at Rowan Road, SW16.

'Following a foot chase, five males were arrested on suspicion of robbery, theft of motor vehicle and possession of an offensive weapon[s].

'In addition to weapons, stolen property was also recovered. Enquiries continue.'
The governor of Alaska and a US Senator from Indiana have joined the chorus of red state officials offering to bring in cops who have quit working in states mandating COVID-19 vaccinations.

The announcements by the elected officials come after Florida Governor Ron DeSantis offered a $5,000 bonus to any police officer who heads to the Sunshine State.

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy announced on Twitter that his state would be happy to take any officers from cities like New York, Chicago and Seattle where cops are feuding with mandates by mayors demanding municipal workers get vaccinated or face getting fired.

'Across the country, members of law enforcement are being targeted & even fired for refusing to either get vaccinated or disclose if they have been,' he wrote. 'Alaska's law enforcement community invites you to consider the 49th state where we back the blue.'

Meanwhile, Senator Mike Braun of Indiana said he was in touch with both holdout officers and police departments in neighboring Illinois about relocating to the Hoosier State.

'My office stands ready to help connect Chicago police officers to an Indiana police department that is hiring now and doesnt have a vaccine mandate,' he wrote. 'Welcome to Indiana!'

Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy (pictured above) is actively encouraging police officers who have quit the force over vaccine mandates to move to his state

'Across the country, members of law enforcement are being targeted & even fired for refusing to either get vaccinated or disclose if they have been,' Dunleavy wrote. 'Alaska's law enforcement community invites you to consider the 49th state where we back the blue'

Senator Mike Braun of Indiana has said he'll connect anyone who'd like to move to the Hoosier State with a police department that's hiring and doesn't use a vaccine mandate.

'My office stands ready to help connect Chicago police officers to an Indiana police department that is hiring now and doesnt have a vaccine mandate,' Braun wrote

Spokespersons for both Governor Dunleavy and Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb have yet to respond to requests for comment.

In Florida, Governor Ron DeSantis said on Sunday he's already working on enticing police officers down south.

'We're actually actively working to recruit out-of-state law enforcement, because we do have needs in our police and our sheriff's departments,' the governor told Fox News on Sunday.

'In the next legislative session, I'm going to hopefully sign legislation that gives a $5,000 bonus to any out-of-state law enforcement that relocates in Florida,' he told the network's Sunday Morning Futures program.

Then, addressing officers in cities like New York, Seattle and Minneapolis, DeSantis said: 'If you're not being treated well, we'll treat you better here.'

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that he will pay unvaccinated police officers from other states $5,000 if they relocate to the Sunshine State to work, as cops across the US continue to leave their posts in droves over COVID vaccine mandates

The governor further explained his reasoning behind the prospective legislation during a news conference in North Venice the next day, saying Monday that his office is looking to make the most out of other cities' mistakes regarding mandates on law enforcement officials and scoop up the disillusioned staffers for himself.

'We are looking to capitalize off a lot of communities across our county who have turned their back on law enforcement, who aren't providing them the support,' the politician told attendees outside the event.

DeSantis, an outspoken critique of both vaccine and mask mandates, emphasized that it's these mistreated officers, from cities with mandates like New York, Chicago and Minneapolis, and their current situations that inspired him to devise such a plan.

The governor, who reinstated the state's ban on mask mandates in schools last month, also specified that the proposed legislation is intended to boost morale among these members of law enforcement who may or may not have faced persecution for their beliefs in the past year - especially in recent months.

'You can fill important needs for us and we will compensate you as a result,' DeSantis said, referring to law enforcement jobs that were potentially jeopardized by the slew of recent vaccine mandates in cities like Chicago, Seattle and New York.

Chicago could face a public safety crisis as one-third of the force could lose their jobs over the jab mandate, with an epidemic of violent crimes and gun violence currently plaguing the city

Less than two weeks ago, Chicago's powerful police union boss, John Catanzara, seemingly dared the city's Democrat mayor, Lori Lightfoot, to suspend up to half the crime-plagued city's cops amid pushback over an impending vaccine mandate on civic workers - which has since come and gone.

Catanzara, the head of the Chicago Branch of the Fraternal Order of Police, explicitly instructed officers to defy the mandate just days before deadline hit on October 16, despite the mayor's assurance that doing so would result in them being put on unpaid leave.

As of last week, a little over one-third of the 12,770-strong Chicago Police Department (CPD) - more than 4,000 officers - had yet to comply with the mayor's request, as an unprecedented crime wave wreaks havoc on the Windy City.

The officers who have refused to get vaccinated at this point must be tested for COVID-19 twice a week on their own time and expense - until December 31, when they will be required to be vaccinated or be placed on unpaid leave.

Meanwhile, the city has started seeking recruits from suburban Illinois to fill the potential staffing shortage.

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) is also facing backlash from disgruntled officers over imposed vaccine mandates.

The Seattle Police Department (SPD) is also facing backlash from disgruntled officers over imposed vaccine mandates

Last week, Seattle officers were seen hanging dont tread on me Gadsden flags - a symbol of American patriotism originating from the Revolutionary War - from their cruisers in protest of a citywide vaccine mandate that took effect last Monday

Just last week, dozens of Seattle officers were seen hanging Dont Tread On Me Gadsden flags from their cruisers in protest of a citywide vaccine mandate that took effect last Monday.

The city similarly required its city employees - including cops - to show proof of vaccination, or risk losing their jobs.

Seattle police spokesperson Sgt. Randy Huserik told DailyMail.com that officers who did not turn in their vaccine verification paperwork by the city's deadline will likely be terminated.

By tomorrow, we'll know what our numbers are, and how many officers have opted to forego the vaccine, the officer disclosed on the day of the deadline.

The Seattle Police Officers Guild is still in negotiations with the city over accommodations for those opposed to the vaccine.

Officers used yellow Gadsden flags - a symbol of American patriotism originating from the Revolutionary War - that depict a snake ready to strike, to express their displeasure with the mandate being forced upon them.

In New York City, Mayor Bill De Blasio announced last Wednesday that the city would be the latest metropolis to force municipal workers to choose between getting vaccinated and the alternative.

NYC Mayor Bill De Blasio announced Wednesday that the city would be the latest metropolis to force municipal workers - including NYPD - to choose between getting vaccinated and losing their jobs

'We've given people a lot of time. It's time to keep moving,' the mayor said of the controversial decree during a Wednesday press conference.

'We are here to keep you safe so you can keep everyone else safe. We need you to keep everyone around you in the workplace safe, we need to make sure the people you encounter are safe.'

What's more, in an attempt to encourage public employees, including the NYPD, to get the jab - one that directly contradicts and mirrors DeSantis' planned incentive - any city worker who gets their first shot between now and October 29 will receive a $500 bonus in their paycheck.

However, on Monday, just a week from the proposed deadline, the city's largest police union, the New York City Police Benevolent Association, threw a wrench into the lame-duck mayor's plans and filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the mandate.

The results of the suit will effect more than 36,000 officers and more than 100,000 other workers employed by the city.

If it fails, unvaccinated employees would be required to be put on unpaid leave if unable to produce proof of vaccination to their direct supervisor, de Blasio said.

There would not be a weekly COVID testing option, he added.

DeSantis last week announced that he also has plans to call a special legislative session intended to create support for state residents - not city - against nationwide COVID-19 policies.

'We're going to have a special session and we're going to say nobody should lose their job based off these injections,' he said.

'It's a choice you can make but we want to make sure we are protecting your jobs and your livelihood.'

COVID cases are currently on the decline, with 70,291 new cases reported on Monday, and 1,411 new deaths.

Across the United States, 66 percent of eligible Americans have received at least one dose of the COVID vaccine and 57 percent are fully vaccinated, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which still warns that community transmission remains high.
Watergate author Bob Woodward says key Trump insiders who met in the Willard Hotel the day before the Jan. 6th Capitol riot may have engaged in a conspiracy against the U.S. government and could be prosecuted.

Woodward made the remark on MSNBC in an appearance with coauthor Robert Costa, where the pair outlined the extraordinary series of events amid then-President Donald Trump's election overturn effort.

'It's calculated,' said Woodward.

Interviewer Mike Brzezinski then called it a 'calculated set of meetings,' to which Woodward agreed.

'Yes. And and phone calls and agitation. Of course, there's no better agitator than Steve Bannon and we talked recently with a Republican, former Republican head of the criminal division in the Justice Department, who said there is a lay down case just in what we know.'

Journalist Bob Woodward described a Trump 'war room' that convened at the Willard Hotel the day before the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, when Congress was to meet to count the electoral votes

Journalist and author Bob Woodward described a 'calculated' meeting in the Willard Hotel, and cited a federal law against conspiring to defraud the government. Here former President Trump congratulates Steve Bannon while swearing in senior White House staff

The pro-Trump faction convened at the storied Willard Hotel

'It's 18 US Code Section 371. I'm sorry, this sounds technical, but it is a law that says it is a crime to defraud the government in any deceptive way. And that's exactly what they did here.'

The section of the law states: 'If two or more persons conspire either to commit any offense against the United States, or to defraud the United States, or any agency thereof in any manner or for any purpose, and one or more of such persons do any act to effect the object of the conspiracy, each shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than five years, or both.'

'It was all planned out in a key way,' said Woodward.

Woodward was speaking about the 'war room' meetings inside the stories hotel near the White House attended by former chief White House strategist Steve Bannon, as well as other figures including lawyer John Eastman.

It all came amid an effort, which Trump revealed publicly, of trying to get Vice President Mike Pence not to count votes from states where Trump was claiming fraud.

'Its not just a Willard war room happening in an isolated way across the street. The president is calling in. Trump is calling in,' said journalist Robert Costa

Attorney John Eastman gestures as he speaks next to U.S. President Donald Trump's personal attorney Rudy Giuliani, as Trump supporters gather ahead of the president's speech to contest the certification by the U.S. Congress of the results of the 2020 U.S. presidential election

The meeting took place the day before Jan. 6th

President Trump, who spoke at the 'Stop the Steal' rally, called into the war room, Woodward and Costa write

Costa said he was personally 'roaming around' the area that night. 'Its not just a Willard war room happening in an isolated way across the street. The president is calling in. Trump is calling in. Hes coordinating this effort to speak for Pence,' he said.

Former Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani took part, as did former New York City Police Commissioner Bernard Kerik.

Woodward then harkened back to his Watergate past, where a grand jury named Nixon as an unindicted coconspirator.

A House select Jan. 6th committee has subpoenaed Bannon to testify. When he did not comply with a subpoena, the House voted to hold him in contempt. The Justice Department now must decide whether to charge him.

His lawyer says he is deferring to former President Trump, who is asserting executive privilege over documents at the National Archives and calls the House probe a witch hunt.

Another participant, former Trump advisor Boris Epshteyn, told the Washington Post: 'I firmly believed then, as I believe now, that the vice president  as president of the Senate  had the constitutional power to send the issue back to the states for 10 days to investigate the widespread fraud and report back well in advance of Inauguration Day, January 20th. Our efforts were focused on conveying that message.'

Kerik told the paper his security firm billed the Trump campaign $55,000 for hotel rooms to house members of the legal team.

Woodward and Costa describe the scene in their book, 'Peril.'

During an earlier interview, with CNN last Thursday, Woodward cited 'seven conspiratorial actions' by Trump and Bannon.

Among them were Bannon's reported Dec. 30th call with Trump where according to Woodward he told Trump Jan. 6th was a 'moment of reckoning' and 'we are going to kill the Biden president in the crib.'

He also cited the Jan. 5th meeting, and contacts with lawmakers trying to get them to block certification of electoral votes.

'I just looked back at what we have in the book and quite directly, we have the dots. We didn't connect them  though they're there,' he told the network last week. Woodward said during a CNN interview Thursday.

'There are seven conspiratorial actions by Trump and Bannon, essentially, to subvert and destroy the process of certifying who the next president is going to be. And when you think about it, it's just like Watergate,' he said.

He also cited a Jan. 5th 'phony statement' that Trump put out saying he and Vice President Mike Pence agreed that Pence had the power to decline to accept votes certified by states.

'We have a very clear-cut case. I would suspect it is quite possible that Attorney General Merrick Garland will appoint a special counsel to look at this. Because the evidence is so clear for a massive Watergate-style attempt to destroy the process of electing a president,' he said.
The pressure is on for Democrats to pass the latest watered-down version of Joe Biden's Build Back Better spending plan before he leaves for his trip to Europe on Thursday where he'll attend a global climate summit.

On Tuesday both White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki and House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) separately implored both progressive and moderate Democrats to come together on Biden's sweeping social and climate plan.

With the clock ticking down on Pelosi to get Biden's agenda to the floor, she urged colleagues at a closed-door meeting to 'embrace' the multi-trillion spending package.

Meanwhile House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer (D-MD) reportedly said that leadership is 'hopeful' that Build Back Better price tag negotiations would be 'done in the next few hours,' Newsy reported.

At her daily briefing Psaki was asked what she would say to those lawmakers who are still unsatisfied after weeks of back-and-forth. She indicated the White House believes that the Democrats' decision is clear.

'These are all components of what the president ran on, and what he promised, and they all would have a huge impact on peoples lives across the country, so do you want to be a part of that or do you want to be a part of nothing? Because those are the alternatives,' she said.

'What we're talking about here is the largest investment in addressing the climate crisis in history - six times the size of the recovery act. We're talking about the largest investment in childcare, and early childhood education, something where we're putting in place a structure that can be build on just like the Social Security Act, the Affordable Care Act. We're talking about expanding access to healthcare.'

Psaki said Democrats need to embrace whatever version of Biden's spending plan comes because she said it will still have a 'huge impact' on people across the country (pictured October 26)

Progressives' initial spending package cost a staggering $3.5 trillion. Its reforms included a federally mandated 12-week paid family leave, expanding the child tax credit, tuition-free community college, a clean energy standard, and the creation of a civilian climate corps.

But after weeks of gridlock, mostly fueled by objections from Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), it appears the spending bill won't exceed $2 trillion.

With no Republican support the bill needs nearly every Democrat in Congress to vote in favor of its passage.

'We are on the verge of making a number of these policies law. And there are realities of governing and realities of policy making including the fact that the alternative to what is being negotiated is not the original package - it is nothing,' Psaki said Tuesday.

One of the proposals on the chopping block is Biden's own proposed paid family leave policy, which could get trimmed to four weeks or none at all.

Psaki declined to say whether Biden would still support the package without it but stressed the need to get something to the president's desk by Thursday, when he will depart for a meeting with Pope Francis in Rome followed by the United Nations climate summit in Glasgow, Scotland.

Pelosi, speaking to Democrats in a closed-door caucus meeting, urged them all to 'embrace' whatever deal comes out, no matter the price.

Pelosi also privately put pressure on her colleagues during a closed-door caucus meeting (pictured October 26)

House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said negotiations could wrap up as early as today (pictured October 26)

'We are on the verge of something major, transformative, historic and bigger than anything else,' she told her colleagues, a source told The Hill.

'Embrace it for what it is. No bill is everything. We cannot miss this opportunity.'

But she reportedly added that the Senate-approved bipartisan infrastructure compromise, which includes $550 billion in new spending, would not come to the floor until House Democrats could agree on the larger bill.

As of Monday Manchin said he was 'still at $1.5,' indicating the money Democrats are already willing to cut still isn't enough.

Manchin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer huddled with the president at his Wilmington, Delaware home on Sunday morning to work through resolving disputes between centrist and progressive factions of the party.

The plan is now being eyed as a $1.75 trillion package, but a person familiar with the private talks said it could still climb considerably higher.

Psaki struck a hopeful note on Tuesday morning when she told MSNBC that Biden's Sunday morning meeting with Manchin left him 'a little extra pep in his step.'

She said Biden 'was really encouraged by the agreement about moving forward and wanting to get things done.'

Senator Joe Manchin is one of two moderate Senate Democrats who have chipped away at the original $3.5 trillion price tag (pictured October 26)

Biden hopes he can go to the upcoming UN climate summit with a concrete plan for his government to tackle climate change (pictured at the June G7 summit in Cornwall)

Asked about that comment at her news briefing today, Psaki said they agreed on 'the need to make these historic investments.'

'There are important discussions now about exactly how to do that and that's the stage we're at right now,' she said.

A person familiar with the discussions told The Associated Press that Manchin is agreeable to the White House's approach to raise taxes on around 700 billionaires and impose a 15 per cent minimum corporate tax rate to pay for the plan.

The new tax plan from the White House would be on billionaires' unrealized capital gains, which includes assets like stocks, bonds, real estate and art, as well as other assets that have not been sold.

It would apply to those who made more than $100 million per year for three years in a row or if an individual has at least $1 billion in annual income.

It's not clear if Sinema, is on board with the newly proposed pay-fors, but the 15 per cent minimum corporate tax seems agreeable to her, according to reports.

The president was in Kearny, New Jersey peddling his Build Back Better agenda on Monday.

'These bills are going to change the lives of millions of people in areas and hundreds of millions of people across the country for better, for years to come,' he said.

And he repeated his debunked claim his plan costs zero. 'We pay for it all. It doesn't increase the deficit one single cent,' he said.
A Romanian widower who was left 250,000 by his elderly British vicar husband has moved on with a new boyfriend.

Philip Clements, 81, passed away in May 2020 leaving his husband - 28-year-old male model Florin Marin - with 150,000 from his life insurance policy, 100,000 worth of property and a 2,000-a-month pension he will receive for the rest of his life.

Now, Marin has reportedly found a new partner in Spanish businessman Jeronimo Jesus de Vaga, 51, who is funding his playboy lifestyle despite his hefty inheritance.

Philip Clements (left), 81, passed away in May 2020 leaving his husband - 28-year-old male model Florin Marin (right) - with 150,000 from his life insurance policy, 100,000 worth of property and a 2,000-a-month pension he will receive for the rest of his life

Now, Mr Marin (right) has reportedly found a new partner in Spanish businessman Jeronimo Jesus de Vaga (left), 51, who is funding his playboy lifestyle despite his hefty inheritance.

M Clements, originally from Eastry in Kent, moved to Romania to be with his toyboy lover after the pair married in 2017.

When the vicar - 55 years Marin's senior - passed away, it sparked a bitter and public row between Mr Clement's family and the model over the fortune, with the model banning his late husband's family from the funeral.

Speaking from a Spanish villa, Marin told The Sun that he has moved on to an even wealthier man in the form or Mr de Vaga, a father of one.

'For the holidays my Spanish man Jeronimo Jesus de Vega is paying,' he told the newspaper. 'I don't spend my money on holidays - my lovers pay for it.'

He added that he still had the money from Mr Phillips 'because I'm not stupid to spend the money from my husband on little things. I'm just putting the money in a bank saving there.'

He said that since he inherited his late-husband's money, he had been chased by hopeful suitors hoping to get their hands on some of the fortune.

Pictured: Florin Marin hold up an urn containing his late husband's ashes in Romania

But despite the advances being made over social media in which some people have made grand promises of life-long romance, Mr Marin said he turns them down.

Mr Marin and Mr de Vaga have dated before, having met while Mr Clements and the male model were on a break, according to The Sun.

After just five month on marriage, the pair separated over arguments about Mr Marin's late-night clubbing.

While Mr Clements returned to the UK and lived with a friend, Mr Marin reportedly struck up a new relationship with Mr de Vaga.

The married couple rekindled their relationship, however, with the vicar moving to Romania so that they could be together.

Mr Marin told told the newspaper that he expected to marry again, but that he would not rush into anything, saying he had only been dating Mr de Vaga for a couple of months.

'Of course I think about Philip every day because he was my husband and still is watching me from the clouds,' he added.

Mr Clements had served as a priest with the Anglican church but he retired before marrying Mr Marin.

The couple met on the online dating site Grindr and got married three years ago in Kent (pictured outside Philip's Kent home)

Mr Clements had only recently moved to Romania last year before he fell ill in May and was taken to a hospital in Bucharest after running out of medication during the coronavirus lockdown.

While he tested negative for Covid-19, he passed away overnight on May 31 in a room unable to receive visitors due to lockdown restrictions.

Florin then banned Philip's family from attending his funeral and now only speaks to one of his brothers.

The couple met on the online dating site Grindr and got married three years ago in Kent - but their relationship hadn't been plain sailing.

They experienced turbulence early on when Mr Clements tried living in Bucharest.

Rows over Mr Marin's clubbing into the early hours and an alleged affair with a Spaniard named Jesus saw the former vicar move back to England after just a few months, despite having sold his home to live in the Romanian capital.

They even appeared on the Jeremy Kyle show together.

The couple rekindled their relationship, and Mr Clements sold his house in the UK and moved out to Romania where the pair lived off his teaching and church pension.

Prior to his death, Mr Clements had said of Marin: 'I love him to bits, if we were permanently separated, I would be the most unhappy person in the world.'

The furious relatives of Mr Clements have been quite adamant in their belief that Marin had ulterior motives.

Mr Clements fell ill during the coronavirus lockdown after running low on medication and initially refused to go to hospital (pictured left at home not long before he died) but was eventually taken there by Florin (pictured on the ward right) where he was put in isolation before passing away

Brother Anthony said earlier this year: I told my brother this many times. Florin is nothing but a gold digger who set out to rob my brother from the moment they met. And now he has got what he wanted.

The man is a disgrace. I made my feelings clear many times. What has happened speaks for itself. Florin has cashed in and has done very well out of my brother.

The retired postman added: The whole family feels the same way. Ive spoken to my other brother Brian about it too and hes not happy either about the way Florin has taken advantage of Phillip.

We were supposed to inherit Philips estate but now its all gone to Florin. But its not about the money because I would rather have my brother alive. What angers us is the way hes been treated by his husband.

He claims the pair were 'always fighting and breaking up. On one occasion about four years ago I went to console Philip because he was in bits. I supported him through it, but I also told him that Florin was no good for him.'

He described his his late brother as 'a very intelligent man but not very street wise and it was easy to pull the wool over his eyes and take advantage of him. I could see what was going on but sadly, he couldnt.'

In an exclusive interview with MailOnline after Mr Clements' death, Mr Marin said: 'People will think that I am a widow with a black hat who is crying, and I did cry, but two days is enough.

'Philip didn't want me to cry, he wanted people to be happy whatever happened.

'I don't want to show people my feelings because my husband died, because some people take advantage of that and there are people who are happy because of your sadness,' he added.
White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan called out Russia and China on Tuesday for skipping the upcoming G20 meeting in Rome as President Joe Biden prepares to sit down with his fellow world leaders.

'I would point out that neither China nor Russia would be attending the summit in person at the leader level. Largely it seems due to COVID-19. The US and Europe will be there and they'll be there energized and united at both the G20 and COP25, driving the agenda, shaping the agenda as it relates to these significant international issues,' he said at a briefing at the White House.

Neither Russian President Vladimir Putin nor Chinese President Xi Jinping are attending the mass gatherings of world leaders in Rome and Scotland, citing COVID 19 concerns.

The United States has taken hard line stances with both countries as it tries to combat China's growing economic might and Russia's actions in cyber space.

White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan called out Russia and China for skipping the upcoming G20 meeting in Rome

President Joe Biden leaves Thursday for Rome to attend the G20 and then heads to Scotland for the UN Climate Summit COP26

White House officials are organizing a one-on-one meeting between Biden and Xi, which Sullivan said would take place by the end of the year. It will be a virtual meeting.

'They will be able to sit as close to face to face as technology allows to see one another,' Sullivan said. 'President Xi and has chosen not to attend these summits. He's chosen not to leave China at all in calendar year 2021 to see anything.'

Sullivan also expressed confidence fellow world leaders would understand why President Biden may show up at the UN climate summit COP26 without a climate deal of his own from his Democrats.

'I think you've got a sophisticated set of world leaders who understand politics in their own country and understand American democracy,' he said.

Biden is struggling to finalize a deal among Democrats on his multi-trillion social spending plan, which funds programs for education, health care and to combat climate change.

But moderate Democratic Senator Joe Manchin objected to Biden's signature clean energy proposal, citing his home state's coal industry. In the evenly divided 50-50 Senate, Biden needs every Democratic vote.

The White House is now looking at beefing up clean energy incentives to appease the West Virginia senator.

Sullivan previewed Biden's European trip ahead of the president's scheduled departure on Thursday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin is not attending the G20 nor COP26

Chinese President Xi Jinping also is not attending the G20 nor COP26 but Biden will hold a virtual meeting with him before the end of the year

President Biden will meet with Pope Francis on Friday at the Vatican

Biden will first stop in Rome to meet with the pope and attend the G20. The president will meet with Pope Francis, who he's met four times previously, on Friday at the Vatican.

Also on Friday Biden will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron to sooth French anger over the AUKUS alliance, which saw Australia dump a contract with France for diesel submarines in exchange for a one for nuclear submarines from America.

Then the president will attend the G20 - an intergovernmental forum comprising 19 countries with the world's largest economies and the European Union - on Saturday and Sunday.

While there, Biden will push his global minimum tax, which he hopes will pay for part of his trillion-dollar congressional agenda.

'A global minimum tax something that would be on the agenda. That is a key part of the agenda at the G20. We're working to get 135 or more countries to agree to that,' Sullivan said.

Domestic issues will also be on the agenda.

'He'll be laser focused on supply chains and energy prices because he knows that these issues impact working families here in America,' Sullivan said.

Biden will spend Monday and Tuesday in Scotland to attend the COP26 enivronmental talks.

While there the president will will advance a 'high standards climate-friendly alternative' to China's Belt-and-Road global infrastructure initiative.
A greedy property tycoon who horrified Yorkshire villagers by flattening their 200-year-old pub has been handed a 54,000 fine after not obtaining planning permission.

Property developer Wayne Low, 48, demolished the historic Travellers Rest pub, in Long Riston, east Yorkshire, last year despite pleas for him to stop.

Low, of Molescroft, Beverley, admitted failing to obtain planning permission to demolish the pub on January 30, 2020.

Property developer Wayne Low, 48, (pictured) has been handed a 54,000 fine after not obtaining planning permission before he demolished a 200-year-old pub in Yorkshire

He was fined 32,000 and was ordered to pay 21,968 costs. No separate penalty was imposed on his company AGML (UK).

Recorder Tahir Khan QC said: 'The harm that was caused to a heritage asset was exacerbated by the fact that your object was make money and, no doubt, the erection of something in its place that would generate profit.'

Locals were alerted to what was going when workmen turned up to switch off the power shortly after New Year 2020.

Killian Garvey, prosecuting for East Riding Council, said that the pub was demolished between November 2019 and February last year.

While demolition was ongoing on January 30 last year, Low was warned that he was committing an offence and that he should stop.

He flattened the historic Travellers Rest pub (pictured before), in the village of Long Riston, East Yorkshire, on January 30 last year despite pleas for him to stop

Low, of Molescroft, Beverley, admitted he didn't have planning permission to flatten the pub (pictured during demolition) and was fined 32,000 and ordered to pay 21,968 costs

'He refused that,' said Mr Garvey. 'He was told explicitly that he was committing an offence to demolish the pub.'

The work was done without East Riding Council being told and without planning permission.

In June this year, Low was later ordered to rebuild the 'heritage asset' - which was the only pub in the village of Long Riston, and was in the local conservation area - but failed to follow the agreed plans, Hull Crown Court heard.

After a legal battle against the ruling, he later turned the sole surviving wing of the 18th century building into a micro pub.

But Hull Crown Court heard council planning officials were still unhappy and people were still complaining.

Recorder Tahir Khan QC said that the harm that was caused to a heritage asset was 'exacerbated' by the fact that the property developer's object was to 'make money'

Local councillor Brian Skow said: 'I've never seen villagers this upset before. It was a wonderful pub.'

The pub, founded in the early 1800s had closed in 2018 and, although it was not listed, it was in the village conservation area.

In mitigation, Low claimed he had a 'genuine passion for historic buildings'.

The court heard eight convictions at Scarborough magistrates court in July 2002 involving clearing an area for a holiday site, killing great crested newts and destroying habitats.
The world's best-selling Scotch whisky has appointed its first female master blender in its 156-year history.

Dr Emma Walker will take over for Dr Jim Beveridge OBE, who has been Johnnie Walker's master blender for the past two decades.

She joined Diageo, which owns Johnnie Walker, 13 years ago and has worked as a Scotch blender for the past six years.

Dr Emma Walker (pictured) will be Johnnie Walker's first female master blender in its 156-year history

She will be responsible for the limited-edition Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker blend, in addition to the Blue Label Ghost and Rare series.

The new role will see Dr Walker leading a 12-strong team of expert whisky makers who craft and blend whisky from all over Scotland, sold in more than 180 countries.

She will be one of a small, select group of people to take on the coveted role of master blender in the businesss existence, the first being founder John Walker.

She said: 'I am honoured to take on the title of master blender of Johnnie Walker, and at an exciting time for the brand as we embark on the next step of our journey looking ahead to the next 200 years.

Dr Walker with Dr Jim Beveridge OBE, who held the master blender position for the past 20 years

'I love experimenting and innovating with flavour and we'll be working hard to not only continue to deliver the unrivalled quality that we are renowned for, but also introducing blends to appeal to a new generation of Scotch whisky fans.'

Dr Jim Beveridge OBE, who began his career at Johnnie Walker 42 years ago, added: 'It is with pleasure and confidence that I pass on this privilege to Emma.

'I know she will do a wonderful job as she possesses the knowledge, expertise, and dedication to make an amazing Master Blender.

Dr Beveridge said of leaving the role to Dr Walker: 'I know that her wonderfully infectious personality will bring something exciting and different to the team and, indeed, to the wider Scotch industry'

Dr Walker said she is 'honoured to take on the title of master blender of Johnnie Walker', which will be held by Dr Beveridge until the end of the year

'On a personal level I am delighted for her, and I know that her wonderfully infectious personality, that made working with her so enjoyable, will bring something exciting and different to the team and, indeed, to the wider Scotch industry.'

In 2019, Dr Beveridge was awarded an OBE by Her Majesty the Queen for his services to the Scotch Whisky industry.

Julie Bramham, Global Brand Director for Johnnie Walker, also said that Dr Walker is taking over at an 'exciting time' for the company.

She said: 'Scotch is being enjoyed in so many different ways by people from all over the world and I know that Emma and her team will continue to develop the exceptional tastes, textures and flavours that we are renowned for.'

Dr Walker said of the new role: 'I love experimenting and innovating with flavour and we'll be working hard to not only continue to deliver the unrivalled quality that we are renowned for'

She will be responsible for the limited-edition Jane Walker by Johnnie Walker blend, in addition to the Blue Label Ghost and Rare series

Dr Walker pictured with Aimee Gibson, who were both on the blending team at Johnnie Walker. Dr Walker first joined Diageo as a Project Scientist on the Whisky Team in 2008

Before Dr Walker worked in whisky, she had studied chemistry for six years at three different institutions, starting with a two-year apprenticeship at Imperial Chemical Industries in Teesside.

She then went on to become a Master of Chemistry at Edinburgh University before completing her PhD at the University of Sheffield.

Dr Walker worked as a Process Chemist at GlaxoSmithKline for nine months before joining Diageo as a Project Scientist on the Whisky Team in 2008.

She then moved into production roles including malt distilling at the distilleries of Leven, Cameronbridge and Knockando.

In 2013 she returned to the Whisky Specialist Team as a blender, bringing acquired knowledge of whisky production back into the blending team.

The aptly named Dr Walker - no relation to the whisky family - will take up the new position in January 2022.

The brand was awarded the Royal Warrant in 1934 by King George V.
Russian state news broadcaster RT has lost its Court of Appeal challenge over a 200,000 fine for 'sarcastic or ridiculing' programmes in breaches of impartiality rules over broadcasts on the Salisbury poisoning and the war in Syria.

Ofcom, the UK's broadcasting watchdog, sanctioned the Kremlin-backed channel over seven news and current affairs programmes between March 17 and April 26, 2018 which breached the requirement for news to be presented with 'due impartiality'.

Two of the sanctioned broadcasts were editions of Sputnik, presented by former MP George Galloway, which covered the poisoning of Russian ex-spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury, Wiltshire, in March 2018.

RT challenged Ofcom's decision at the High Court, arguing that it breached its right to freedom of expression, and that the watchdog failed to take account of the 'dominant media narrative' in relation to the Salisbury poisoning.

After losing the High Court bid in March 2020, RT brought a Court of Appeal challenge earlier this year.

Ofcom sanctioned RT broadcasts including two editions of Sputnik hosted by former British MP George Galloway on the novichok poisoning in Salisbury, 2018

Alleged novichok poisoners Ruslan Boshirov (left) and Alexander Petrov (right), accused by UK authorities of attempting a hit on former GRU officer Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia

However, in a ruling on Tuesday, three senior judges dismissed RT's appeal and found that references to opposing views were made in the sanctioned programmes, but 'were either sarcastic or ridiculing'.

Sir Geoffrey Vos, sitting with Lord Justice Baker and Lord Justice Warby, said: 'The fact that there is a dominant media narrative that is different from the views expressed in RT's programmes does not, by itself, override the special impartiality requirements that apply to programmes dealing with matters of political controversy and current public policy.'

'Having watched the programmes themselves, I can say that the programmes were each partial and unbalanced. They were seemingly deliberately so,' Sir Geoffrey added.

He concluded: 'Even if one makes the assumption that RT viewers may, in some or even most cases, be aware of the contrary views expressed in mainstream media, that is not sufficient to outweigh the requirement for due impartiality in programming on matters of political controversy.'

In its ruling last year, the High Court found that a lack of due impartiality 'would severely harm the quality of political discourse in this country and in doing so seriously harm the rights of others'.

RT receives funding from the Russian state (pictured, President Vladimir Putin)

In their decision, the Court of Appeal judges found: 'The enforcement action taken by Ofcom against RT in respect of each of the programmes was indeed necessary in a democratic society in the interests of the protection of the rights of members of that democratic society in general and the viewers of RT in particular.'

Under Ofcom rules, editorially linked programmes on the same subject matter as part of a series can be used by a broadcaster to achieve due impartiality.

Sir Geoffrey said that he did not find 'any merit' in RT's criticism that Ofcom paid insufficient regard to programmes before and after the ones that were sanctioned as context.

He said: 'If the programmes themselves did not demonstrate due impartiality and merited regulatory action... it is hard to see how content of unlinked programmes before or after the ones in question could save them.'

In a statement after the ruling, an Ofcom spokesperson said: 'We welcome the Court of Appeal's judgment that our action against RT was appropriate and necessary to protect the rights of people in a democratic society.

'The court has endorsed Ofcom's approach to due impartiality - an important set of rules designed to ensure that viewers and listeners benefit from contrasting views around major issues.'
United Airlines asked a judge to lift a temporary restraining order on their company's coronavirus vaccine mandate as they claim keeping pilots home on paid sick leave is costing nearly $3million each month.

The air carrier claims it was 'forced' to the pilots on paid leave because some employees refused 'to risk their safety' by flying with their unvaccinated coworkers.

The restraining order - set to expire today - was put in place after six employees filed a lawsuit against United in a Texas federal court last month.

It alleges that the airline 'failed to provide reasonable accommodations' when their requests for religious or medical exemptions to the company vaccine mandate were only granted with unpaid leave.

The lawsuit was filed after more than 200 United workers faced termination for not receiving the COVID shot.

On Monday, US District Judge Mark Pittman extended the temporary ban until November 8, prohibiting United from moving the employees to unpaid leave or denying any exemption requests because they were filed past the company deadline.

United Airlines asked a judge to lift a temporary restraining order on their company's coronavirus vaccine mandate as they claim keeping pilots home on paid sick leave is costing nearly $3million each month

On Monday, US District Judge Mark Pittman extended the temporary ban until November 8, prohibiting United from moving the employees to unpaid leave or denying any exemption requests because they were filed past the company deadline

Pittman said the temporary restraining order will remain in effect until he decides whether to block the company's vaccine mandate for the remainder of the litigation, Bloomberg reported.

United, however, argued the order was 'unwarranted' because the pilots involved in the lawsuit would get 'money damages and retroactive seniority if they ultimately prevail on the merits.'

The Chicago-based air carrier claims the order is costing them $1.4million every two weeks, or about $100,000-a-day.

Analysts believe the company is 'unlikely' to recoup the lost funds.

The loss comes as the airline industry continues to struggle amid the pandemic, which nearly destroyed the business in 2020.

United, last year, saw a loss of nearly $7billion as people were not taking flights, although demand for air travel has surged to unprecedented levels as COVID-weary Americans take to the skies, with a further boom expected when the US reopens to international visitors from November 8.

The airline, on Monday, told Pittman it planned to start returning unvaccinated workers with exemptions back into customer-facing roles once the spread of COVID-19 subsides.

Company leaders claim flight crew members will return to work once nationwide daily case counts drop below 10,000 new cases per day for at least 21 consecutive days.

Meanwhile, the pilots who filed the suit argued that vaccinated pilots should 'not know whether they are flying with an unvaccinated pilot' and that 'United should be informing its pilots - as they do the general public - that the risk of contracting COVID-19 on a United airplane is almost zero.'

United declined to respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment, saying: 'we'll refer to the court filings.'

However, the company previously told the Chicago Tribune it was working to put options in place for the 2,000 employees who sought exemptions to the mandate. These included new testing regimens, temporary job reassignments and masking protocols.

The air carrier claims it was 'forced' to the pilots on paid leave because some employees refused 'to risk their safety' by flying with their unvaccinated coworkers

United CEO Scott Kirby, however, argued Tuesday that it 'isn't practical' to permit COVID testing instead of requiring vaccines because positive or skipped tests could result in unexpected staffing shortages and route cancellations.

Kirby, citing recent disruptions experienced by Southwest Airlines, told CNN Business: 'Imagine if you have thousands of employees on one day calling in and saying, 'For some reason, my test didn't pass.' I mean it is going to be a huge challenge for airlines that are not implementing vaccine requirements.'

Southwest was forced to cancel nearly 2,000 flights the weekend of October 8 because they didn't have enough pilots to fly their planes.

The air carrier cancelled three of every ten departures it had scheduled.

Meanwhile, Kirk Limacher, Vice President of HR at United, has reiterated that besides the health risks associated with returning unvaccinated pilots to the cockpits, the company would also face backlash from other employees that could potentially cause flight disruptions.

'United cannot return the unvaccinated pilots to the cockpit because  aside from the various practical problems with testing and masking  we would face serious and widespread objections from the vaccinated pilots,' said Limacher.

'In fact the objections among our vaccinated pilots are so strongly held that many of them would simply refuse to fly with the accommodated pilots. The distractions and dissension this would cause in the workforce represent an unacceptable safety risk.'

Pittman said the temporary restraining order will remain in effect until he decides whether to block the company's vaccine mandate for the remainder of the litigation

Two weeks ago, Kirby announced the company had reached 99.7 percent of their employees vaccinated in the six-weeks since announcing a vaccine mandate on August 6.

He also defended the company's vaccine mandate - despite Texas Governor Abbott banning all mandates - and claimed the mandate has not disrupted United workforce, including at their Houston hub.

United was the first airline to require all employees to be vaccinated.

Several airlines have followed in United footsteps, including Texas-based companies American and Southwest Airlines who have both claimed they will ignore Governor Greg Abbott's mandate ban.

Abbott's order means American and Southwest could face a $1,000 fine for forcing employees to receive a vaccine because employees could lose their livelihoods.

The order is set to protect employees from 'losing their livelihoods' by not being forced to get vaccinated or lose their jobs.

Georgia-based airline Delta has not mandated vaccines for employees, but is imposing a $200 monthly surcharge against unvaccinated members and requires them to be tested weekly.

Delta has reported that 90 percent of its workforce is vaccinated.
A Glasgow Airbnb host has been banned from taking bookings during the COP26 climate change conference after trying to squeeze an extra 1,449 from an American delegate.

Tan Copsey, from Brooklyn, New York, reported the landlord to the company after receiving a message in which he attempted to justify the extra charge.

The landlord, who has not been identified, admitted he had not realised the booking was for the climate conference and was concerned about 'missing out on a great deal of money'.

As a result of the report, Airbnb has now banned the landlord from accepting guests during COP26, which is due to begin on October 31.

Mr Copsey, a senior director at climate-focused communications firm Climate Nexus, tweeted a picture of his correspondence with the host in which they cited a '400 per cent' rise in average room prices in the area.

Tan Copsey, a senior director at Climate Nexus, tweeted about the landlord trying to add another $2,000 to the price of his booking

Mr Copsey tweeted pictures of his correspondence with the landlord after reporting him to Airbnb

His tweet read: 'Having a great time with COP26 accommodation, this guy tried to add another $2000 to my booking. Lovely experience all-round.'

In the message exchange, the landlord said: 'I have been made aware that over the course of your stay the average room price has gone up 400 per cent in my area.

'It troubles me that I have missed out on a great deal of money due to your early booking.

'I had meant to contact you earlier but was on holiday for three weeks recently and was distracted.

'I feel an additional $70 per night would be a fair adjustment in this case. If you care to look at alternative accommodations I understand.

'The average price per night for inferior lodgings is about 400. The weekly discount still applies to the new rate.

'I should let you know that my property is in a super quiet neighbourhood. A five minute walk from a train station that goes directly to the COP26 venues.

'Sorry for not letting you know sooner.'

After Mr Copsey informed the landlord that he would no longer be keeping the booking, the landlord replied: 'I gave you the opportunity to agree to pay an additional fee to reflect the market price for short term lets during COP26 in Glasgow.

The message Mr Copsey received from the Glasgow landlord citing that he was going to 'miss out on a great deal of money'

'As you chose not to, I am cancelling your booking.'

In a statement, Airbnb said it has penalised the host by banning them from taking any more bookings during the conference.

A spokesperson added: 'We have zero tolerance for this behaviour and have taken action against the Host and blocked them from accepting other bookings during this period.

'The guest has been refunded in full and we have offered support in helping them find alternative accommodation.

'Airbnb is donating all its service fees for stays in Glasgow during COP26 to Zero Waste Scotland.'

Around 30,000 people, including the leaders of 120 countries, are expected to attend the climate change summit at the SEC in Glasgow between October 31 and November 12.

However, concerns have already been raised about the cost and availability of accommodation in and around the city.

The Scottish government has urged people to ppen their doors to visitors as part of the COP26 Homestay Network - a programme set up to encourage families to offer a place to stay for free or for a low price.

Hundreds of households are said to have signed up for the initiative.

A government spokesperson said: 'By offering free or low-cost accommodation, hosts can help ensure those unable to cover the costs themselves, particularly those from the Global South, can attend the summit and make their voices heard.'

Yesterday, though, MPs were told of an 'accommodation crisis' with around 3,000 people planning to attend still not having been able to find a place to stay.

It follows reports that 20 properties on the Airbnb website and 30 on Booking.com were being advertised at more than 20,000 for the two-week event.

One two-bedroom apartment in Glasgow's Kelvingrove area was said to have been listed for 8,583 per night.

A COP26 official said: 'As hosts it is of huge importance to the UK there are a wide of fairly-priced accommodation options available.

'We have been working with our hotel provider, MCI, to make sure this is the case.'
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The Queen has dramatically pulled out of attending next week's Cop26 climate change summit in Glasgow following her secret hospital stay.

Six days before she was due to attend a reception and give a speech at the landmark conference, Buckingham Palace said she had 'regretfully' decided not to go. Instead, the 95-year-old sovereign will film a video message at Windsor Castle, which will be broadcast to delegates in Glasgow.

It comes amid fears for the monarch's health after she was forced to cancel a visit to Northern Ireland at the 11th hour last Wednesday.

Palace sources insisted that her decision not to travel to Scotland was simply a 'sensible precaution' in light of her doctor's advice to rest and that she was determined the conference - which aims to agree crucial global action on climate change - should be a success. Another source said it would have been 'unwise' for the Queen to make the 800-mile round trip from Windsor to Glasgow.

A palace spokesman said: 'Following advice to rest, The Queen has been undertaking light duties at Windsor Castle. Her Majesty has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the evening reception of Cop26 on Monday, 1st November.

'Her Majesty is disappointed not to attend the reception but will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded video message.'

The palace has still not explained why the Queen was taken to hospital last week. After it was announced she had cancelled the Northern Ireland visit, the palace initially said the monarch was resting at Windsor. It was only 36 hours later, after news had leaked out, that a spokesman confirmed she had been admitted to King Edward VII's hospital in London for 'preliminary investigations'.

Aides had hoped that the head of state would be well enough to lead the Royal Family at the summit, either in person or via video-link. And earlier on Tuesday she returned to work at Windsor, where she is resting on doctors' orders, for the first time since last week.

The pictures show her face on a computer screen as she greeted the new ambassador from the Republic of Korea, Gunn Kim, who was at Buckingham Palace. She also spoke to the new Swiss ambassador, Markus Leitner.

The Queen's decision not to attend Cop26 will be a blow to organisers. There are few people on the world stage who command the same respect and authority as the British monarch. With the head of state missing from the event, it is hoped no world leaders will use her absence as a reason not to attend the summit. It previously emerged that Xi Jinping - president of China, now the planet's biggest polluter - is skipping the much-anticipated conference.

The Royal Family will still be represented by the Prince of Wales and the Duke of Cambridge - both of whom have strong environmental campaigning credentials - as well as the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duchess of Cambridge.

Senior royal aides said the Queen will be working hard behind the scenes to make the summit a success. She will film her video message at Windsor Castle later this week and has let it be known that she 'very much wants Cop26 to be a success and see meaningful actions'.

Queen Elizabeth II hosted a reception for international business and investment leaders at Windsor Castle on October 19

A general view of the SSE Hydro located on the Scottish Event Campus in Glasgow on September 1, 2021

The Queen was photographed at Windsor Castle today in a picture released on the royal family's social media accounts. The monarch was shown side on, smiling as she sat in a chair with her hands in her lap, in front of her large computer screen. On the table were the Queen's folded glasses and several pages of typed briefing notes for the audiences

Queen Elizabeth II appears on a screen via videolink from Windsor Castle this morning

Queen hasn't walked dogs for nearly a week The Queen has not been able to enjoy her daily walk with her dogs for almost a week after being told to rest by doctors. Sources say the monarch has been taking their orders to rest seriously after she was kept in hospital overnight on Wednesday for 'preliminary investigations'. The Queen, 95, has two corgi puppies and dorgi Candy, a cross between a corgi and a dachshund. One of the highlights of her day is being driven to walk them near Frogmore on her Windsor estate, where Harry and Meghan once lived. Family and friends believe these daily excursions are a 'tonic' and have helped keep the Queen so healthy in her nineties. But instead the dogs have been walked by staff since her hospital stay. Buckingham Palace said yesterday that the Queen was still in good spirits and undertaking some 'light duties' while resting. It is still hoped she will be able to lead the Royal Family at the Cop26 UN climate change summit in Glasgow next week, either in person or via video link. A final decision will be made towards the end of this week. Advertisement

Earlier this month she criticised world leaders' inaction on addressing the climate change crisis.

At a reception following the official opening of the Welsh parliament, the Queen referred to Cop26 and said: 'I've been hearing all about Cop... still don't know who is coming. No idea. We only know about people who are not coming... It's really irritating when they talk, but they don't do.'

A palace source told the Mail that the Queen was being 'cautious and sensible' by changing her plans.

'Her Majesty is following advice - rest and light duties,' they said. 'She remains in good spirits. Her Majesty had audiences today and is expecting a call with the Chancellor this evening, as is the norm before the Budget. There are other light engagements in the diary.'

The monarch is being carefully looked after by the Medical Household, her team of royal physicians, but the Mail revealed last week that she had carried out 19 engagements in October - a phenomenal workload for a woman of her age.

Two weeks ago she was forced to start using a walking stick in public for the first time - a stark reminder of her advancing years. And last Tuesday the monarch was on her feet for almost an hour when she held a lavish reception for guests including Microsoft founder Bill Gates and US climate envoy John Kerry, where she looked bright and cheerful.

Buckingham Palace said she 'remains in good spirits', though a royal source told The Sunday Times: 'She is knackered.' And an insider told the Mail: 'Her private office will constantly look at her diary and tweak it as and when is necessary.'

It also emerged that the Queen, who is deeply religious and rarely does not attend church, missed prayers at Windsor's All Saints Chapel in Windsor on Sunday.

She has been resting following medical advice to cancel her two-day trip to Northern Ireland.

The Queen had a busy schedule of engagements in the first weeks of October following her return from Balmoral.

Her hospital stay was kept a secret and only confirmed by the Palace when it was revealed by a newspaper.

It is highly unusual that any major engagement would be cancelled at the last minute, suggesting that staff are taking no chances with the elderly head of state's health.

She has faced a tumultuous 18 months, including the death of the Duke of Edinburgh as well as the acrimonious departure of Prince Harry and wife Meghan.

The Queen still keeps a busy diary of events and audiences and deals with her daily red boxes of official papers.

Since she returned to Windsor from her summer break at Balmoral, the Queen has carried out 15 engagements, listed in the Court Circular, including her audiences, plus an additional trip to Ascot.

Senior aides at Buckingham Palace are scrambling to devise a strategy for managing the Queen's workload after being accused of misleading the public over her health.

Sir Edward Young, the Queen's private secretary, last night faced calls to 'be ruthless' and purge the Monarch's diary of functions not central to her role as head of state.

Officials are understood to be drawing up a 'core' list of key events that the Queen will prioritise in the next 12 months, including the Platinum Jubilee to celebrate her 70-year reign in June.

It comes amid reports the Queen will be accompanied by one of her children or grandchildren when she appears in public in the future to avoid having to cancel and let down the public in the event of future health scares.

Another member of the Royal Family will be on hand to step in should she need company or assistance, the Sunday Telegraph reported.

It is understood the trip to the private King Edward VII's Hospital in London (pictured) last week was expected to be for a short stay for some 'preliminary investigations'

October 16 -- Queen Elizabeth II attends Champions Day at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire

October 13 -- Dame Imogen Cooper is received by Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace, London, where she was presented with The Queen's Medal for Music for 2019

October 12 -- Queen Elizabeth II uses a walking stick as she arrives to attend a service at Westminster Abbey in London

October 10 -- Queen Elizabeth II is seen on her way to The Royal Chapel of All Saints in Windsor as she returns to church

October 6 -- Queen Elizabeth II gestures as she meets members of the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery to mark the 150th Anniversary of the foundation of A and B Batteries, at Windsor Castle

October 4 -- The Queen is shown the baton that will carry her personal message at Buckingham Palace in London ahead of the launch of the Queen's Baton Relay for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games

October 2 -- Queen Elizabeth II shakes hands with First Minister Nicola Sturgeon as Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall looks on at the opening of the sixth session of the Scottish Parliament

Prince Andrew lawsuit 'will cast cloud over Queen's Platinum Jubilee' The Queen's platinum jubilee is set to be dogged by her son Palace Andrew's court drama, in what a royal expert has described as 'grim news' for Buckingham Palace. Documents lodged in New York show the civil case of rape and sexual assault being brought against him by Jeffrey Esptein's victim is to go ahead as quickly as possible. Judge Lewis Kaplan has ruled, with the agreement of both parties, that all disclosures and depositions should be completed before July next year. This means that key moments in the case will be heard in the run-up to the official national celebrations to mark the Queen's 70 years on the throne. And royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams said that there will now be a 'cloud' over the festivities, caused by Andrew's 'atrociously ill-advised friendship with Epstein'. The commemorations will last throughout the year and will see senior royals  except Andrew  travel around the country and overseas. The events will culminate in a four-day bank holiday over the first weekend of June. Advertisement

Meanwhile, the Palace's communications team is under pressure to be more candid should the 95-year-old Monarch require further visits to hospital.

The Queen's courtiers faced extensive criticism last week for failing to inform the public that she had been admitted to King Edward VII's Hospital in London on Wednesday and stayed there overnight for tests.

The media was told that she was resting at Windsor Castle and aides revealed the hospital stay only on Thursday night after news leaked out. The controversy has shone a spotlight on the growing challenge faced by the Palace in balancing the Queen's desire to be an active head of state with needing to protect her health.

Royal sources say the easing of Covid restrictions has resulted in a logjam of public events, adding pressure on the Queen's diary. According to Buckingham Palace's Court Circular, she has held 13 separate audiences or meetings, attended seven major events and travelled almost 900 miles since leaving Balmoral on October 1. In addition, every day she still reads Government papers, delivered to her in red boxes, and has a long list of private meetings.

'They have to find some kind of balance,' said Sally Bedell Smith, who has written a bestselling biography of the Queen.

Joe Little, managing editor of Majesty magazine, said the Queen's autumn schedule had been more crammed than expected, but last-minute cancellations were inevitable in the future.

'Every now and again there will be this reminder that she is 95 and she can't do what was expected of her 10, 20 years ago,' Mr Little said.

Last week the BBC's veteran Royal Correspondent Nicholas Witchell faced a backlash last night after questioning whether Buckingham Palace undermined public trust by failing to reveal the Queen had been admitted to hospital.

In forthright comments, Mr Witchell said that journalists and the public had not been 'given the complete picture'.

He added: 'The problem, it seems to me, is that rumour and misinformation always thrive in the absence of proper, accurate and trustworthy information.'

But his remarks provoked criticism online. 'Nicholas Witchell is honestly so infuriating,' one Royal watcher wrote on Twitter. 'The Queen is 95 and like most her age, she'll be in and out of hospital for various tests because that's what happens at that age no matter how fit you are. She doesn't need to disclose her every move, let her have some dignity.'

The Queen was seen using a walking stick for the first time at a major engagement during a Westminster Abbey service on October 12. On Thursday October 21, she was said to be in 'good spirits' after her hospital stay and back at her desk, undertaking light duties. But she missed a church service at Windsor on Sunday.

Royal sources had briefed the Sunday Times that the Queen was 'knackered' due to a busy social life and preference for late night television, as having a hectic run of engagements in October.

The Queen's husband of 73 years the Duke of Edinburgh died six months ago at the age of 99.

Buckingham Palace would not comment on whether the monarch has received her booster Covid-19 jab, but given her age it is likely she has already had it.

A Buckingham Palace spokesman said: 'Her Majesty The Queen today conducted two virtual audiences via video link from Windsor Castle.

'His Excellency Mr Gunn Kim was received in audience by The Queen today via video link and presented the Letters of Recall of his predecessor and his own Letters of Credence as Ambassador from the Republic of Korea to the Court of St James's.

Mrs Hee Jung Lee was also received by Her Majesty.

'His Excellency Mr Markus Leitner was received in audience by The Queen and presented the Letters of Recall of his predecessor and his own Letters of Credence as Ambassador from the Swiss Confederation to the Court of St. James's. Mrs Leitner was also received by Her Majesty.'
U.S. intelligence agencies believe the Islamic State in Afghanistan could develop the capability to attack the United States in as little as six months, a senior Pentagon official told senators on Tuesday.

The stark warning is the latest reminder of the danger that remains after U.S. troops left the country at the end of August and the Taliban retook control.

Under Secretary of Defense Colin Kahl said the U.S. had to remain vigilant against the threat from Al Qaeda and from the Islamic State's Afghanistan offshoot known as ISIS-K.

'I think the intelligence community currently assesses that both ISIS-K and Al Qaeda have the intent to conduct external operations, including against the United States, but neither currently has the capability to do so,' he told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

'We could see ISIS-K generate that capability in somewhere between six or 12 months.

'I think the current assessments by the intelligence community as Al Qaeda would take a year or two to reconstitute that capability.'

Under Secretary of Defense Colin Kahl said the U.S. had to remain vigilant against the threat from Al Qaeda and from the Islamic State's Afghanistan offshoot known as ISIS-K

An Afghan security personnel holds the Islamic State group's flag after an attack in the city of Jalalabad, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Monday, Aug. 3, 2020. An Islamic State group attack on the prison in eastern Afghanistan holding hundreds of its members raged on Monday after killing people in fighting overnight, a local official said

His words will will trigger fresh criticism of the rapid end of America's 20-year war, an end that triggered chaotic scenes at Kabul airport and the deaths of 13 U.S. personnel in an ISIS-K suicide attack.

President Biden has seen his standing at home take a battering, with plunging opinion polls, and his reputation overseas weakened among allies who said they were blindsided.

Kahl's comments echo those of Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, who offered a similar six-month time frame recently.

Biden has promised an 'over-the-horizon' counterterrorism capability, using drone strikes to limit terrorist threats to the U.S.

But officials have also said they expect the Taliban to make good on promises they have made to prevent Afghanistan becoming a haven for terrorists - much to the skepticism of many Afghan observers.

In his assessment, Kahl it was unclear whether the Taliban has the ability to keep ISIS-K from developing into a bigger threat.

'It is our assessment that the Taliban and ISIS-K are mortal enemies,' he said.

'So the Taliban is highly motivated to go after ISIS-K.

Their ability to do so, I think, is to be determined.'

But he also had reassuring words for the committee, saying that the threat to the American homeland was at its lowest level since Sept. 11, 2001.

Republican Sen. Joni Ernst scoffed at that assessment.

'It doesnt sound like a low risk when you have just told us that the possibility of an attack from ISIS-K on our homeland could come six to 12 months from now,' she said.

However, Kahl and Lt. Gen. James Mingus, director for operations for the Joint Staff, who was also giving evidence said the timelines did not take account of operations to degrade ISIS-K and Al Qaeda capabilities.

Opening proceedings, committee chairman Sen. Jack Reed outlined the need for vigilance.

'While the United States has ended its military mission in Afghanistan, we must continue to ensure that al Qaeda, ISIS-K, and other terrorist groups cannot use Afghanistan to attack the United States and our allies,' he said.

'We must remain vigilant about these threats and ensure that we establish an effective and robust counterterrorism architecture moving forward.'
Sen. Joe Manchin said he does not believe the proposal to allow the IRS to snoop on account transactions will make it into Democrats' social spending plan, as he said President Biden agreed with him that it is 'screwed up.'

The West Virginia Democrat said he told Biden in their Sunday meeting: 'This cannot happen. This is screwed up.'

'So he says, I think Joe is right on that one.' So I think that one is gonna be gone,' Manchin said at a breakfast meeting of the Economic Club.

Manchin met with the president and Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer at Biden's home in Wilmington, De.

Manchin said he was not satisfied when Democrats simply raised the reporting threshold from $600 to $10,000 in aggregate transactions per year.

'Even if it's $10,000 thats only $800, $900 a [month].'

But Manchin sounded optimistic Democrats would come to agreement on a final bill, whittled down from $3.5 trillion to his ideal figure of $1.5 trillion, this week.

He said at the breakfast there was a 'high probability of Democrats' social spending bill and the bipartisan infrastructure bill passing in the near future.

On Monday, a group of 99 banks and industry groups wrote a letter to President Biden urging him to drop his proposal to hand over transaction data to the IRS, noting that they too were unsatisfied by raising the threshold. The organizations that claimed to represent business and financial interests urged the White House to withdraw support for the measure and find 'more targeted measures' to reduce the tax gap.

The proposal to hand over data on all aggregate inflows and outflows of accounts with more than $600 in total transactions drew sharp outcry from Republicans and banks alike, prompting Democrats to raise the amount to $10,000. But, the letter said that raising that cap amounted only to 'cosmetic' changes.

The banking groups lauded the administration's 'good-faith attempt' to make sure all Americans pay the taxes they owe, but wrote: 'our members, and the American people, believe that they have a reasonable right to privacy and this overly broad proposal to report gross annual inflows and outflows from nearly every account is disconnected from its purported narrow purpose of focusing government scrutiny on Americans with actual income above $400,000.'

'The privacy concerns for Americans who pay their taxes and would be swept into this account reporting program are real and should not be taken lightly,' the letter continued.

The letter was signed by a wide variety of groups, from the American Bankers Association, the American Farm Bureau Federation and the Chamber of Commerce to the Asian American Hotel Owners Association, the National RV Dealers Association, the National Grocers Association and the North American Die Casting Association.

Under the revised policy, accounts with $10,000 or more in total deposits and withdrawals, excluding wage income, would be subject to greater scrutiny. Banks would have to send over their aggregate inflow and outflow to the IRS to help the agency target its audits.

The inflow would not take into account salary or wage income, which is already under the purview of the IRS under W-2 forms. It would also leave out income in the form of Social Security checks.

'At its core, this program that has not had a significant study or detailed examination to show consumer impact, will collect financial metadata on nearly every American in the hope that the IRS will be able to discern patterns in aggregate numbers that do not correspond to tax liabilities and target audits only to those who are breaking the law,' the letter read.

'This is a substantial expansion of the IRSs authority that, once established, is sure to expand rather than roll back.'

The narrowing in scope came after Republicans and banks put up fierce outcries over what they view to be an invasion of privacy. But such groups are not satisfied even with the revision.

A group of 99 banks and industry groups wrote a letter to President Biden on Monday urging him to drop his proposal to hand over transaction data to the IRS

'If they raise it to 10,000 it will still capture everybody, and every small business,' Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., said in a press conference on Tuesday.

'The average American runs over $61,000 through their account,' said Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho.

'The average American will be picked up by this plan.'

Crapo was not amused by the exemption for wage income, arguing most Americans would still be affected 'unless they don't spend their income.'

Senate Finance Committee chair Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., unveiled the policy Tuesday afternoon.

Wyden hit back at GOP criticisms.

'The main reason Republicans have latched on to this issue as the one to lie about every day is because they know their tax agenda is a political loser,' Wyden said.

'Whether the de minimis threshold is $600, $10,000 or even $100,000, it would capture the accounts of millions of consumers and small businesses,' the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) said in response.

Banks already hand over information on transactions over $10,000 and any that they deem to be suspicious, to prevent money laundering. They also hand over data on interest that customer accounts accrue.

'If they're not successfully catching the tax cheats with this, this is just assuming that everyone is a tax cheat,' Paul Merski, executive vice president of congressional relations and strategy for ICBA, told DailyMail.com.

'Whether it's $600 or $10,000 under this proposal the intimate financial details' of almost every American, said Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La.

'What possibly could go wrong President Xi would be proud.'

Treasury Sec. Janet Yellen, who Cassidy said came up with the 'squid-brained idea,' has said that it will help the IRS to catch rich tax cheats.

The Biden administration has insisted audit rates would not go up for those making under $400,000.

'She knows better than that. Why cast the net so wide? It's not about policy, it's not about taxes, it's about control.'

Yellen said of the revised proposal: 'The core of the problem is a discrepancy in the ways types of income are reported to the IRS: opaque income sources frequently avoid scrutiny while wages and federal benefits are typically subject to nearly full compliance.'

'Today's new policy reflects the administration's strong belief that we should zero in on those at the top of the income scale who don't pay the taxes they owe, while protecting American workers by setting the bank account threshold at $10,00 and providing an exemption for wage earners.'

This crackdown on unreported income is expected to generate $463 billion over the next decade, according to the Office of Tax Analysis. The money would be used to pay for Democrats' budget reconciliation bill, currently valued at $3.5 trillion.

The Treasury department defended and IRS proposal, arguing that public dialogue on it has been marred by 'misinformation.'

'Opponents have elevated the pernicious myth that banks will have to report all individual customers transactions to the IRS,' Natasha Sarin, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Economic Policy, wrote in a blog post on the Treasury website.

'Banks would add just a bit of additional data to information that they already supply to taxpayers and the IRS: how much money went into the account over the course of the year, and how much came out,' she said.
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The funeral of Conservative MP Sir David Amess who was stabbed to death will be held at Westminster Cathedral next month, MPs have been told.

Cardinal Vincent Nichols, the leader of Roman Catholics in England and Wales, will preside over the service at 10.30am on Tuesday, November 23. The details were confirmed earlier today to MPs, peers and staff who attend Catholic services in Parliament.

The Southend West MP was killed on Friday October 15 during a constituency surgery in a church in Leigh-on-Sea in Essex. He was pronounced dead at the scene at 1.10pm and a preliminary post-mortem report gave the cause of death as multiple stab wounds to the chest.

The funeral details for the Catholic MP come after the Commons cleared its diary on Monday last week for MPs to offer tributes to their colleague, before a memorial service at St Margaret's Church in Westminster.

There was controversy at the time of Sir David's killing that police did not allow a local priest, Father Jeffrey Woolnough, into Belfairs Methodist Church, where the politician was dying, to administer the sacrament of the sick, which is also known as the last rites.

Ali Harbi Ali, 25, is charged with Sir David's murder and preparing acts of terrorism between May 1, 2019 and September this year. He appeared in crown court for the first time on Friday by video-link from high-security Belmarsh prison.

An Anglo-Iranian community member leaves flowers at a memorial and wall of condolence for MP David Amess

Court artist sketch by Elizabeth Cook of Ali Harbi Ali appearing at the Old Bailey in London by video-link from HMP Belmarsh

The funeral of the murdered Conservative MP Sir David Amess will be held at Westminster Cathedral next month

Left to right: Katie, wife Julia, Flo, Sir David Amess, Sarah and Alex at Flo's wedding in August

The defendant, wearing a grey sweatshirt, lifted up his face mask to confirm his name and date of birth, during the hearing. He will face trial next year.

He was remanded in custody during a 13-minute hearing at Westminster Magistrates' Court. The court heard Ali allegedly settled on a plot to kill an MP two years ago, initially focusing on two politicians other than Sir David.

Sir David, a 69-year-old father of five, was ambushed at his Friday meeting with the public and stabbed 17 times in a frenzied attack. After a week of questioning by Scotland Yard as well as searches of his home and electronic devices, Ali was charged with murder and another charge of preparation of terrorist acts.

The possible terror link has led Defence Secretary Ben Wallace to call for new regulations to make social media companies 'less attractive' to those who could potentially become radicalised via the platforms.

Mr Wallace told the Commons Defence Committee on Tuesday that the internet was 'dangerous' when in the 'wrong hands'.

He made the comments after committee chairman Tobias Ellwood brought up the murder of Sir David by a suspect who, he said, it was 'allegedly assumed could have been self-indoctrinated by what he read on the internet'.

The Defence Secretary replied: 'We are all grappling in our parliaments around the world about how to regulate, how to deal with this and it is not easy, but I have always pushed for more regulation on that because it is frightening how it gets into young people, or actually any aged people.

'It is powerful and, in the wrong hands, dangerous.

'I've always talked about the business models of these internet companies. I think I've said on the record that I want to talk about the YouTube internet model - the longer you're on it, the more you're hooked, the more they sell advertising.

'If we want to tackle it, we have to go right to the heart of their business model and make it less attractive.

'But the worry is that it is without trace, in a sense: you sit in your bedroom and you radicalise yourself. You are not travelling to Afghanistan to be given orders, you are not buying weapons on the internet, because you are taking a kitchen knife or whatever.'

Nick Price, Head of the CPS Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division, said: 'The CPS has authorised charges against Ali Harbi Ali for the murder of MP Sir David Amess. We will submit to the court that this murder has a terrorist connection, namely that it had both religious and ideological motivations. He has also been charged with the preparation of terrorist acts. This follows a review of the evidence gathered by the Metropolitan Police in its investigation'.

Boris Johnson speaking in the chamber of the House of Commons as MPs gather to pay tribute to Sir David

Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Labour Party leader Keir Starmer and SNP Westminster leader Ian Blackford attend a service to honour Sir David at the Church of St Margaret, in the grounds of Westminster Abbey, October 18, 2021

Candles are lit next to a portrait of David Amess during a vigil for him at St Michaels Church, in Leigh-on-Sea

People look at flowers left by the police cordon nearby the Belfairs Methodist Church

Matt Jukes, Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations, said: 'I want to send my deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sir David Amess, who died so tragically last Friday. Sir David's dedication to his family, his constituents and his community, and his positive impact on the lives of so many has shone through'.

Speaking outside New Scotland Yard, Mr Jukes added: 'A large team of detectives have been working around the clock to find out as much as we can about what happened and why.

'That work has included searches at a number of London addresses. Our advanced forensics team analysed digital devices and carried out a painstaking review of CCTV footage.

'If there are members of the public who have further information that might help the investigation, I would urge them to come forward. Every piece of information in investigations like these is important and you will not be wasting our time.'

Sir David's death during his weekly constituency surgery has shocked Britain and is likely to change the way MPs are protected and meet voters forever.

In a heartbreaking statement his family called for people to 'set aside hatred', adding: 'Nobody should die in that way. Nobody. Whatever one's race, religious or political beliefs, be tolerant and try to understand. We are absolutely broken, but we will survive and carry on for the sake of a wonderful and inspiring man.'

Ali is the son of a former Sudanese diplomat who was born in Britain and raised in Croydon. After falling out with his parents he decided to move in with an aunt and her sons in a council house in the upmarket North London enclave of Kentish Town, in a street of 2million three-storey townhouses.

Police officers erect a tent outside a house in north London, thought to be in relation to the death of Sir David

Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer join Home Secretary Priti Patel and the Speaker of the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle as they pay their respects to Sir David on October 16, 2021

His move to north London is understood to have coincided with a deterioration in his relationship with his Somali-born parents. Ali's parents split up when he was young and his father returned to Somalia.

One neighbour, who has known the family for twenty years, said that Ali spoke of hopes of becoming a doctor with the NHS, saying: 'He told me he'd been doing exams and he seemed westernised.'

Police and intelligence officials were initially mystified about why the 69-year-old Tory politician was singled out for attack.

Reports had initially suggested that Sir David, a devout Roman Catholic and prominent Brexiteer who was MP for Southend West, had been selected because of his political views or religion.

Investigators now believe that there may have been no specific motive for the alleged targeting of Sir David. One government insider told the paper: 'He was unlucky. He was not targeted because of his political party. David Amess was not specifically targeted.'

Police are also investigating the alleged close ties between Sir David and Qatar. The Tory MP was chairman of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on the Gulf state and returned from his latest visit there the Wednesday before his death.

Sir David's family said their hearts had been 'shattered' by his 'cruel and violent death' at a constituency surgery in Essex. They said they could not understand why the 'patriot and a man of peace' was targeted by a knifeman he had never met.
Portland's police chief branded the woke-but-crime-ravaged city's 54 shootings over a 19 hour period 'stunning' and attacked calls to to defund his department.

The ongoing tragedy of gun violence is on my mind tonight after a terrible weekend of violence in our city. A double murder this weekend. Nineteen shootings in 54 hours. Stunning, Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell tweeted on Monday night.

Officers are investigating 19 shootings that took place between early Friday morning and Sunday evening, which resulted in four arrests and numerous injuries.

Two of those shootings were fatal - with the man and woman killed downtown Sunday recorded as the 71st and 72nd homicides in the Oregon city in 2021. That breaks its all-time previous record of 70 murders for the entire year of 1987.

Police recovered 95 cartridge casing and multiple guns throughout the weekend of violence, which ended when a man living in a homeless hotel allegedly shot two dead while high on meth following the citys decriminalization of all drugs.

Portland saw 19 shootings over 54 hours between early last Friday morning and Sunday evening, which Police Chief Chuck Lovell called 'stunning'

Portland Police Chief Chuck Lovell took to Twitter Monday night to plea for an end to the citys violence ,following a double homicide that saw it break an annual murder record

Chief Lovell continued: I know this violence causes trauma for our whole community, and our first responders are no different. I want to acknowledge the incredible work from PPB members who responded, investigated, made arrests, and seized illegal guns.

Its a complex problem, and there are many community members/groups that are working hard to address it. PPB is a part of that effort to address this violence. The Focused Intervention Team position has been posted and were now recruiting some great PPB officers. More soon.

The violence started just after midnight on Friday when police received reports of a young man firing a handgun. Nathan Isenberg, 18, of Portland, was arrested for allegedly firing a 10mm pistol. It is not clear why Isenberg open fired or if he had an intended target, but no known victims were reported in connection with the incident.

Through the next 26 hours there were seven other intermittent shootings, but no injuries were reported and police are still searching for suspects. Then on Saturday around 2.45am, a male victim was hospitalized with serious, but not life-threatening injuries from another shooting.

Police responded to six more calls reporting gunfire in the next 24 hours. A seventh shooting on Sunday at 2.10am led police to arrest Julian Guarneros, 18, of Gresham, and Max Anderson, 22, of Anaheim, California.

Officers are investigating 19 shootings that took place between early Friday morning and Sunday evening, which resulted in four arrests and numerous injuries

Police recovered 95 cartridge casing and multiple guns throughout the weekend of violence

There were two more shootings in the next two hours before the weekend of violence ended with a double homicide at 6.25am.

The unidentified male and female victims were killed at the Biltmore Hotel in the city's Old Town neighborhood Sunday. That property is used as apartments for the homeless, with Michael S VanDomelen, 45, now charged with both murders.

They have become the city's 71st and 72nd murder victims of 2021, surpassing the previous all-time record for murders in a single year - 70 in 1987 - with more than two months of the year still left to go.

It comes a year after the Oregon city decriminalized the possession of small amounts of all drugs - including cocaine, heroin and crystal meth, with its liberal policymakers under fire as crime spirals out of control.

VanDomelen was arrested and charged on two counts of first degree murder on Monday in Multnomah County Circuit Court. He claimed to have heard voices inside his head telling him to shoot people while he was high on meth, according to court documents.

Around 6:25 a.m. on Sunday, local authorities responded to reports of shots being fired inside the Biltmore. Once they had arrived, police found two victims who were already pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

The victims, a man and a woman, will be identified at a later time after the Oregon State Medical Examiner confirms their names and contacts their families.

The weekend's violence ended when Michael Scott VanDomelen, 45, allegedly shot two dead, saying he heard voices inside his head telling him to shoot people while he was under the influence of methamphetamine

After believing to hear shots fired on the third floor of the apartment complex, a resident of the building told local police he went into the hallway and saw a male and female who had been shot inside an open apartment, according to a probable cause affidavit filed Monday.

That witness said he heard the male victim make noises, but the man was no longer responsive when he went to check on him, court documents read.

The witness then police that he came across VanDomelen in the hallway and asked if he knew who shot the victims, court documents reveal. VanDomelen responded by saying, 'I did,' according to court documents.

VanDomelen was also carrying a gun and indicated he wanted to put the male victim out of his misery, the witness told police, according to court documents. The witness also said that he heard an additional gunshot as he left the apartment.

Security footage from the apartment hallway showed VanDomelen pointing a firearm into the apartment where the two victims were found, court documents show. After an exchange with the witness, footage shows VanDomelen pointing the gun into the apartment once again, according to the affidavit.

Police found a 9mm handgun in his pocket at the time of his arrest, according to the affidavit. Officers said VanDomelen confessed to the killings while he was in a squad car, court documents show, with no motive yet given for them.

VanDomelens court appointed attorney, Jonathan Sarre, declined to comment Monday. VanDomelen has not been previously convicted of any violent crimes, but was convicted for heroin possession, a felony, and a trespassing charge in 2008, according to court records.

He told authorities that he had been using amphetamines on a weekly basis and that his drug usage helps him with anxiety, according to court documents. VanDomelen added that he does not suffer from any mental illness.

Police in Oregon can no longer arrest someone for possession of small amounts of heroin, methamphetamine, LSD, oxycodone and other drugs. Instead, people found in possession would face a $100 fine or a health check that could lead to addiction counseling, unless they are also facing other charges.

Court documents also show that VanDomelen told police that he has been living in the Portland metro area his entire life and currently lives at the Biltmore Hotel, which is run by Central City Concern.

Sunday's shooting took place at the Biltmore Hotel, an apartment building for Section 8 recipients. Section 8 is income-based housing program and is designed to provide rental assistance through housing vouchers to eligible, very low income families, disabled, and elderly individuals

The apartment building's units are single-room occupancy with common bathroom facilities. Most units are rent subsidized through Section 8, with residents paying a portion of the rent. Created by Congress in 1974, Section 8 is a housing program based on income that is designed to provide rental assistance through housing vouchers to eligible, very low income families, disabled, and elderly individuals.

Other than the two residents, Police told Central City Concern that a guest was also involved in the shooting, according to the organization's senior director of public affairs, Juliana Lukasik.

VanDomelen pleaded not guilty to the charges. He is being held without bail at the Multnomah County Detention center while he awaits his next trail appearance, scheduled for November 2nd at 9.30 a.m.

As well as smashing Portland's murder record, the double murders were two of 19 shootings from Friday through early Sunday morning in the area.

"It scares me. Yes, it does. I'll be honest with you. I hear a lot of it, Whisper Davis told KGW8, a local affiliate of NBC. Davis referred to gunshots she heard over the weekend. She has lived in the area for five years and said she is more than ready to move.

Otha Calvin, another resident who heard some of the gunfire, said to the news outlet, The community is safer now and people walk their dogs and there are kids. Bullets struck two cars and a home in his area in North Portland, police said.

Calvin said, It was quick. You know what it sounds like, what gunshots sound like. It's always unsettling when you want to live in a society where there's peace and no fear. The village has to come together and try to work together and get a conversation going.'

Portland has seen a surge in gun violence during the coronavirus pandemic, with 2021 reaching historic levels of people killed (71), expecting to top a 1987 stat. In a pre-pandemic era (2019), the amount of homicides was half the amount (36) as there are in the city today.

Since the coronavirus pandemic, Portland's police department has been struggling to keep up with local crime amid an acute staffing shortage and budget cuts after calls to 'defund the police' in 2020 - city leaders slashed $27 million from the police budget that year, and crime is showing no sign of slowing down.

The city is also on the verge of creating a new police oversight board with sweeping powers, with most of those nominated for roles openly declaring progressive stances.

The city's police department is seemingly unable to fill positions on even the smallest of task forces aimed at reducing the violence, while the city's authorities scramble to implement alternative solutions to improve safety.

The police department's Focused Intervention Team has been unable to fill 14 available spots, reporting in August that only four applicants had applied to join the taskforce aimed at reducing gun crime.

The original Gun Violence Reduction Team was shut down after the Portland City Council voted to cut $15 million from the police budget and eliminate 84 sworn positions last June.

Meanwhile, last Tuesday, at least 100 self-proclaimed anarchists tore through the city, setting dumpsters aflame, smashing windows and causing $500,000 in damage. Police say 35 separate locations were targeted as the force stood idle due to a new state law that restricts how law enforcement can respond to riots.

At the same time, Oregon's largest city is also implementing what it has called 'novel solutions' aimed at improving safety, including adding traffic barrels to prevent drive-by shootings and suspending minor traffic stops so officers can focus on immediate threats.

Those measures have been ridiculed by locals fed-up of the extreme violence that has made parts of the city a no-go area after dark or on weekends.

So far this year, Portland has had about 1,000 shootings, 314 people have been injured by bullets, and firearms have accounted for three-quarters of homicides. Police attribute much of the gunfire to gangs, fights and retaliation killings, but they are also affecting bystanders.

Portland has also been rocked by violent protests, including a 100-person protest on October 12 that caused $500,000 in damage (pictured)

Nationally, homicides increased by nearly 30 percent from 2019 to 2020, based on FBI data. However, in Portland, deadly violence is increasing at a faster rate than nearly all major cities, with an 83 percent increase in homicides in 2020.

Portland has seen more homicides in 2021 than some larger cities, including San Francisco, and twice as many slayings as its larger neighbor, Seattle. Other hard-hit Western cities include the Albuquerque, New Mexico, metro area, which has about 679,000 residents and has seen a record 97 homicides this year.

Portland police have struggled to quell the violence with a force 128 officers below its authorized strength. Since August 2020, about 200 officers have left the department. Many, in their exit interviews, cited low morale, lack of support from city officials and burnout from months of racial justice protests, which often ended in plumes of tear gas before largely dying down since summer.

'We are running on fumes. There's no way we can investigate thoroughly, and correctly, all these shootings,' said Daryl Turner, executive director of Portland's police union.

Police say the law ties their hands as it prohibits them from using crowd control techniques like pepper spray or tear gas. Instead, law enforcement agencies are told to rely on follow-up investigations to hold rioters accountable

A mob amok through the streets on October 12 and shattered windows, set fires and sprayed graffiti messages like 'anarchy means attack,' 'riots work' (pictured) and 'breaking windows is good'

Turner says the city will need to hire 840 officers over the next five years to implement proper community policing and keep Portland safe.

Besides staffing, Turner said the increase in violence is directly related to budget cuts.

Amid booming calls to defund the police, city leaders slashed $27 million from the police budget last year - $11 million due to the pandemic-caused budget crisis - a decision that Turner says has cost lives.

Officials also disbanded a specialized unit focused on curbing gun violence, which had long faced criticism for disproportionately targeting people of color.

Insufficient manpower and funds have forced officials to implement nontraditional ideas in an attempt to hinder gun violence.

More traffic barrels were installed this month in a southeast Portland neighborhood plagued by shootings, some linked to high-speed drivers. City Commissioner Jo Ann Hardesty said they hope to slow activity at gun violence hot spots and make it harder to 'both commit a crime and get away with it.'

'This is an all-hands-on deck situation where government needs to dig deep, think creatively,' Hardesty said. 'From police to community-based organizations to infrastructure design - we all have a role to play in this emergency.'

Hardesty is pro-defund the police, but was branded a hypocrite last year for calling police on a Lyft driver who refused to put up the windows of his car when she moaned about being cold.

Painted messages encouraging violence against police are no longer uncommon to come across in the city, including one that reads 'kill cops' (pictured)

Police say 35 separate locations were targeted in the destruction Tuesday night, October 12 - including banks, retail stores, coffee shops and government buildings. Above is the damage done to Portland's 10th-tallest building, the Moda Tower

In addition, Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler announced in June that officers are no longer being directed to stop drivers for low-level traffic violations.

He was forced to move from his home last year after the apartment building was targeted by activists intent on keeping its occupants up all night.

Wheeler and Police Chief Chuck Lovell said this was in response to data showing a disproportionate impact on black drivers, but also because the city doesn't have enough officers.

But experts, police and residents say these measures aren't nearly enough to counter the most violent year in the city's modern history.

'This past year has shattered anything that I've ever witnessed,' said Irving, the outreach worker and a former gang member. He said he does not see gun violence slowing without more officers on the street and a specialized gun violence unit, along with investments in community-based organizations.

Four cultural institutions in Portland's Old Town Chinatown neighborhood recently sent a letter to officials, demanding immediate action to keep visitors, staff and volunteers safe.

The increasing violence and pleas for cities to do more have compelled some areas to switch from defunding police departments to restoring funding to them.

On October 16, Lovell posted the above tweet addressing Portland's gun violence. The city has seen more than 1,000 shootings over the past year

In major cities across the country, portions of police budgets are being restored. From Los Angeles to New York, some law enforcement departments that underwent massive budget cuts, amid nationwide protests over the murder of George Floyd last year, have had local leaders restore funds or implement new programs or units.

In Portland, there's money available for public safety in the form of a $60 million general fund excess balance.

The City Council can use half the money, which came from business taxes last year and was far more than anticipated, however it wants. Whether a significant portion will go to the police bureau has yet to be determined.

'We have to realize that everybody has a role, from community members to the police department,' Irving said. 'No one entity is going to solve gun violence.'
A Missouri landlord was charged with second-degree murder for stabbing his tenant more than 30 times in a furious rage after he was asked to turn the heat up, with the victim dying in his fiancee's arms as screams echoed through the neighborhood.

Gordon McBeth has been charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action for the death of Darryl Gilland Jr, 28, of Kansas City, Missouri.

Gilland and his fiance Samantha Pohlman, 23, had moved into a new home near Topping Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri, a week prior and had negotiated a lower rent price in return for helping with the remodel.

The couple had messaged their landlord to fix the heating as it had been getting cold at night.

They had asked the landlord for a space heater, Pohlman said.

Landlord Gordon McBeth (pictured) stabbed his tenant Darryl Gilland Junior, 28, of Kansas City, Missouri, more than 30 times in a furious rage over a space heater

Gilland (pictured) and his fiance Samantha Pohlman, 23, had messaged their landlord about fixing the heating problem in their new home

Gilland, who was described as 'gentle' by his family, died in his girlfriend's arms after two neighbors were able to get McBeth off of him and hold him at gunpoint until police arrived

'He [Gilland] just messaged him like: "Hey, can we please just do something about the heating situation,' Pohlman told KCTV 5.

'At first, the guy was perfectly nice about it. He was like: "Yeah, I'll come over and we'll do that," and then just out of nowhere, he completely flipped and acted like we were asking too much and being a complete burden.'

At 3.30pm on October 22, witnesses told KCTV that they heard McBeth driving erratically into the couple's driveway.

Pohlman said McBeth got out of the car and threw insulation at the couple. She reportedly told KCTV that McBeth threatened to kill Gilland if the insulation wasn't good enough for them.

The couple had moved into their new home (pictured) a week prior to the stabbing

The home was dilapidated and needed a lot of repairs

McBeth then reportedly stabbed Gilland more than 30 times. Pohlman had run for help and neighbors came to rescue after hearing 'horrific screaming.'

One neighbor pulled McBeth off Gilland while the other held him at gunpoint until police arrived.

Gilland died in Pohlman's arms.

'I held his head and I told him "it was going to be okay" and that the ambulance was coming. And that I loved him,' she told Fox 4.

The family is now distraught over losing their son 'over nothing.'

'[It was] nothing, it was over nothing,' Gilland's mother Donna Groves told KCTV 5.

'My son was a very gentle, loving, caring, and would do anything for anybody. He did not deserve this.'

Gilland and Pohlman (pictured) met five years prior to their engagement

She said she remembers him as 'such a sweet, nervous gentleman from the beginning'

Darryl Senior (left) said the event was 'indescribable' and that he was 'proud' of his son. His mother Diane Groves (right) called him 'very gentle, loving, caring' person

His father Darryl Gilland Senior called the event 'indescribable' to KSHB 41, as he barely held back tears.

'It's indescribable. Have you ever had this happen before? I don't know what to say about it,' he said.

'I hear people talking about losing their children...but over 30 times, my son bled to death.

'He was just so full of life, now, and I was just so proud of him, I always told him how proud I was of him.'

Samantha informed Darryl Senior that his son had 'posted about it on Facebook' and told her that his dad was proud of him, Fox 4 reported.

Darryl Senior responded that he felt 'lonely' and 'loved him [his son] very much.'

The family set up a GoFundMe to help transport Gilland's body to Indiana, to lay him to rest next to his grandparents, with whom he was close . They have raised almost $7,000 of their $10,000 goal

Samantha told Fox 4 she remembered Gilland as 'such a sweet, nervous gentleman from the beginning' when they met for the first time five years ago.

His mother said he 'wanted to be the man of the house and wanted to take care of her [Samantha].'

The family set up a GoFundMe page to help cover the cost of transporting Darryl's body back to his hometown in Indiana to be buried next to his grandparents, who the family reported was very closed to him.

Any additional funds will be transferred to Samantha to 'assist in getting her on her feet.'

The family has raised $6,988 out of their $10,000 as of October 26.

The family is now asking for the charges to be increased to first-degree murder.

McBeth is due back in court on November 2.
Virginia's Democratic gubernatorial candidate faced a new wave of criticism over unearthed footage of him saying that teaching diversity and inclusion in schools is just as important math and English.

Terry McAuliffe faced backlash after conservative journalist Christopher Ruffo shared a 2019 C-Span interview with McAuliffe discussing the rise of white nationalism.

In the interview, McAuliffe said that schools needed to begin teaching students about diversity and inclusion at a younger age to curb the rise of white supremacy, and claimed that doing so was just as important as teaching any other subject.

'We dont do a good job in our education system talking about diversity, inclusion, openness and so forth. We dont,' McAuliffe said, while calling for the subjects to be taught to children from kindergarten to sixth grade.

He then added: 'How we deal with one another to me is as important, you know, as your math or English class.'

Virginia's gubernatorial Republican Candidate Glenn Youngkin has criticized opponent Terry McAuliffe as being out of touch with what parents want in school

The clip has continued to fuel the fires in the Virginia's governor's race as McAuliffe's opponent, Republican Glenn Youngkin, said that the current debate about what to teach students in school will put him over the top.

Youngkin, who was behind in the polls over the summer, is now tied with McAuliffe at 48 per cent, according to the most recent Emerson College Poll.

Nearly a third of Youngkin's supporters are backing him due to his stance on education. Early voting has begun, with in-person voting scheduled for November 2.

Youngkin has made a comeback in the fall and now ties with McAuliffe at 48 per cent

On Twitter, people went on to attack McAuliffe and echo sentiments that moral teachings should be parent's responsibilities, not the government's.

Earlier this month, he sparked furious condemnation after calling on parents to take a back seat and let teachers decide what children are taught.

'How about schools do a better job teaching core subjects and civics and leave the social, moral and ethical stuff to the parents and the churches that families choose,' Twitter user Carolyn Cronje wrote.

Another Twitter user with the handle Beellyboi wrote, 'No thank you, Mr. McAuliffe. Please feel free to share this with your own children and your other relatives and friends.'

Twitter user Bryan Beatty said McAuliffe's policy undoes the relationship between people and the state.

'He believe s that the "state" should be teaching morals and principles not the parents and the church and community!'

But some did go to McAuliffe's defense and say that it was important to teach students US history as it happened, demonstrating the current divide between voters in Virginia.

'When I was a child, Virginia history was taught in 4th grade and in 7th Grade. It was a confederate apologist history. Let's just teach real history, which is one of slavery, racism, along with diversity and inclusion,' wrote user Scott McMorrow.

McAuliffe continues to receive backlash on twitter for his stance on diversity in education

Some Virginians continue to stand by McAuliffe as education continues to be hot button issue

Monmouth University Polling Institute director Patrick Murray, who has been studying the race, told Fox News that Youngkin's numbers jumped when he vowed to ban critical race theory from schools and made education a key focus of his campaign.

'McAuliffe's sizable edge on handling Covid and his competitiveness on economic issues last month helped put him ahead in this race, but Youngkin has been able to change the terms of the debate, by using his opponent's words on parental involvement in the school curriculum to shift voter attention on that issue,' Murray explained.

'Not only has this eaten away at the Democrat's previous advantage on education policy, but it has also raised doubts about McAuliffe's ability to handle the pandemic.'

At center of the debate is the Loudoun County School District, which has became the battle ground for the country's culture war debating hot button issues such as CRT and transgender rights.

Barack Obama, left, was campaigning for Terry McAuliffe when he attacked Youngkin's general position on education and claimed the rape case in Loundoun County schools never happened

Barack Obama was the latest Democrat to receive backlash over the district's scandals when Furious parents and conservatives have told him to apologize to a Loudoun County couple and their daughter, who was raped by a skirt-wearing boy in a school bathroom in May, after the former president called the row encircling it 'fake outrage' and a 'phony trumped-up culture wars'.

On Monday, juvenile court judge Pamela Brooks ruled that the boy - who has not been named - did force himself on the 15-year-old girl on May 28 in the bathroom at Stone Ridge High School in Leesburg, Virginia.

The case drew national attention because the boy was wearing a skirt at the time and the girls' parents - Scott and Jessica Smith - said it was what they feared might happen if Loudoun County Schools starts allowing boys into girls' bathrooms frequently as part of a progressive transgender policy.

Smith was dragged out of a meeting on June 22 after hearing teachers from the Loudoun County school board claim they'd received no reports of sexual assaults involving students in the bathrooms, when less than a month earlier, his daughter had reported just that.

Superintendent Scott Ziegler sent an email to parents on the day it happened to say the school was investigating, but told the room on June 22: 'To my knowledge, we dont have any record of assaults occurring in our restrooms.'

Scott Smith, the victim's father, was pictured with a bloody mouth, being dragged out of a school board meeting on June 22 - a month after the attack - after listening to school officials say no one had been sexually assaulted in the bathrooms when that's what his daughter had reported the previous month

The victim's parents were ridiculed by the left after her father Scott Smith was pictured being dragged out of a school board meeting on June 22. They say they now feel vindicated

That boy was moved to another school, where he is said to have carried out a second sex attack in October. The youngster is now in custody, amid an uproar over how he was allowed to allegedly offend again.

Loudoun County Schools hasn't commented on the verdict.

Youngkin has repeatedly attacked the Loudoun County School Board for its handling of the situation and said he would bring the FBI to fully investigate the board if he's elected governor.

He also targeted the districts woke policies when in April, the county announced that they planned to allocate more then $6 million to 'equity training' which was met with strong opposition by some residents.

Parents in the Loudoun County School District protest teaching CRT in schools in June

Parents also protested the school's trans-inclusionary policies

They claimed that training was part of a pro-CRT push which would lead to students seeing themselves as victims or oppressors, depending on their race.

Since then, the district has seen wave after wave of protests from parents opposing the new mandates.

Youngkin added that the race in Virginia will serve as a message of where the US will be heading towards.

'Terry McAuliffe wants government between parents and their children. On the ballot right now in November is the future of Virginia and of America,' Youngkin told Fox.
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Britain's most hated officer Wayne Couzens is seeking permission to appeal against his whole-life term for kidnapping, raping and murdering Sarah Everard.

The Met firearms officer used Covid powers to conduct a fake arrest of the 33-year-old marketing executive as she walked home from a friend's house in March, before committing crimes so horrific they shocked the nation and undermined confidence in the police.

Handing down a whole-life sentence at the Old Bailey last month, Lord Justice Fulford said Couzens, 48, who had pleaded guilty to kidnap, rape and murder, 'used his position as a police officer' to kidnap Miss Everard in Clapham.

But in the latest twist, a court official said on Tuesday: 'We have been notified that an appeal has been lodged by Mr Couzens,' The Mirror reported. If permission is granted, the case will be heard by the Court of Appeal Criminal Division.

Couzens is one of over 60 criminals serving whole-life sentences. They are reserved for the most serious crimes such as serial killings and politically motivated murders.

Lord Justice Fulford said by misusing his police role to kidnap, rape and murder Sarah, his crime was 'of equal seriousness as a murder carried out for the purpose of advancing a political, religious, racial or ideological cause'.

Couzens joins infamous killers such as British soldier Lee Rigby's murderer Michael Adebolajo, police officer killer Dale Cregan and Mark Bridger, who murdered five-year-old April Jones.

Moors murderers Ian Brady and Myra Hindley also got whole-life orders. Serial killer Levi Bellfield is unique in being given two.

Britain's most hated police officer Wayne Couzens is seeking permission to appeal against his whole-life term for kidnapping, raping and murdering Sarah Everard

A slew of claims have come to light about Couzens since he was jailed for his life with no chance of parole after he kidnapped, raped and murdered Miss Everard.

Couzens is known to have committed an indecent exposure, driving round naked from the waist down in his car, when he served with them in 2015.

He has also been identified as being responsible for carrying out the same offence at a McDonald's restaurant days before he targeted Miss Everard.

On March 3, he staged a fake Covid arrest, handcuffed Miss Everard and put her in his car before driving 80 miles to Kent where he raped and murdered her. Days later, he burned her body and left it in woods near land he owned.

A slew of claims have come to light about Couzens since he was jailed for his life with no chance of parole after he kidnapped, raped and murdered Miss Everard

The Met has faced a wave of criticism over missed opportunities to expose Couzens as a sexual predator before he went on to murder Miss Everard.

It emerged the 48-year-old was known as 'the rapist' by staff at the Civil Nuclear Constabulary because he made female colleagues feel so uncomfortable.

He had been accused of indecent exposure in Kent in 2015 and in London in the days before Ms Everard's murder, but was allowed to continue working.

Priti Patel has announced there will be an independent inquiry into the 'systematic failures' that allowed Wayne Couzens to serve as a Met police officer. The Home Secretary said that 'recent tragic events have exposed unimaginable failures in policing'.

She said that the public 'have a right to know' why Couzens was able to be employed by the Metropolitan Police.

Addressing the Conservative Party conference in Manchester, Miss Patel said: 'I can confirm today, there will be an inquiry, to give the independent oversight needed, to ensure something like this can never happen again.'

The inquiry will look at Couzens' career in the Metropolitan Police and determine if red flags were missed to identify him as a threat.

The probe is likely to be viewed as a warning shot at Met chief Cressida Dick who has faced calls to quit following the murder of Miss Everard.

The inquiry will be split into two parts, with the first examining Couzens' previous behaviour.

It will seek to establish a 'definitive account' of his conduct leading up to his conviction, as well 'any opportunities missed'. The second part of the probe will look at 'specific issues raised by the first part of the inquiry'. That could include examining wider issues across policing, including vetting practices, discipline and workplace behaviour.

Miss Patel will also write to the independent police inspectorate HMICFRS to commission a 'thematic inspection of vetting and counter-corruption procedures in policing across England and Wales'. This will look at how forces detect and deal with misogynistic and predatory behaviour.

The Home Office said the inquiry will be established on a non-statutory footing but 'can be converted to a statutory inquiry if required'.

A chairman for the inquiry and its terms of reference will be announced by the Government in due course.

On March 3, Couzens staged a fake Covid arrest, handcuffed Sarah Everard (pictured), 33, and put her in his car before driving 80 miles to Kent where he raped and murdered her

In light of Miss Everard's murder, all sexual and domestic abuse allegations against Metropolitan Police officers over the last ten years will also be reviewed, Cressida Dick (pictured) confirmed

Met Police chief Cressida Dick FINALLY admits official advice telling women to 'wave down a bus' if arrested by a lone male officer in the wake of Sarah Everard's murder was nonsense Scotland Yard chief Cressida Dick finally admitted official advice telling terrified women to 'wave down a bus' if they were arrested by a lone male officer was nonsense. The Metropolitan Police Commissioner confirmed that the guidance, which sparked outrage when issued in the wake of Sarah Everard 's murder by serving PC Wayne Couzens, had been axed. Scotland Yard was accused of pouring scorn on frightened women earlier this month after the London force's strategy urged them to attract attention if they fear being abducted by police. It came as Couzens was ordered to spend the rest of his life behind bars for kidnapping, raping and killing Ms Everard in London in March. Lawyers warned the 'unrealistic and misconceived' guidance could cause chaos and in extreme cases see women Tasered for resisting arrest. They also suggested bus drivers could end up being arrested if they stopped to help. Dame Cressida initially defended the advice, saying it had been 'taken out of context'. But facing the London Assembly's Police and Crime Committee, she said: 'I completely understand why that ended up as the headline. 'It was not intended, and it is not how we see things. Yes we have reviewed it and I think we would address the question differently were it to come again in the future.' Advertisement

In light of Miss Everard's murder, all sexual and domestic abuse allegations against Metropolitan Police officers over the last ten years will also be reviewed.

Dame Cressida Dick, commissioner for the force, announced on Friday that an investigation is being launched into all current cases of sexual misconduct or domestic abuse allegations against London's police officers.

Dame Cressida, 60, also revealed similar allegations that have been made against both officers and workers at the force over the last ten years will be reviewed.

Officers from the force's Directorate of Professional Standards will analyse each of the cases internally and will undertake a check of the vetting history of the staff involved in the claims.

The under-fire commissioner, who is resisting calls to resign, said: 'We'll be reviewing them [the allegations] to make sure that the victim has been properly supported, and that the investigation is suitably thorough.

'We'll also be going back to look at some of those [historic] investigations just to make sure that the processes that should have taken place have taken place and that we are taking the right management action after the case is closed.'

The force said in a statement the examination, which has been launched in addition to an independent review into the Met's culture by Baroness Casey of Blackstock, was being held in the aftermath Ms Everard's murder.

Dame Cressida said she was 'delighted' to announce Baroness Blackstock will be in charge of an 'independent and far-reaching review' lasting an estimated six months.

She said: 'She will be looking at our vetting, our recruitment, our leadership, our training and all manner of processes to see how they reinforce the best possible standards.

'She'll make a public report, and public recommendations, so that we can improve and make sure that the public have more confidence in us.'

Dame Cressida said Baroness Casey - who has been leading an inquiry into how England yobs were able to break into Wembley during the Euros final - was a strong candidate for the job.

'I think she's got the right character, and the right expertise, and the right background, to do this review,' she said.

Baroness Casey said: 'Trust is given to the police by our, the public's, consent. So any acts that undermine that trust must be examined and fundamentally changed.

'This will no doubt be a difficult task but we owe it to the victims and families this has affected and the countless decent police officers this has brought into disrepute.'

The spotlight will also be shone on the force's Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection Command - which killer Couzens worked for - with a 'root-and-branch review' looking at whether there are any 'specific issues' within the unit.

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has welcomed the appointment of Baroness Casey to lead the independent review into the Met's culture and standards.

In a series of tweets, Mr Khan said: 'Baroness Casey's review must look into the wider culture of the Met Police, including issues of misogyny, sexism, racism and homophobia as well as thoroughly examining recruitment, vetting, training, leadership and standards of behaviour among officers and staff.

'I've been clear with the Met Commissioner about the scale of the challenge we face and the change that's needed, and I will continue to play my full part in holding the Met Police to account on behalf of Londoners.'

In the wake of Couzens' life sentence for murder, it was revealed more than half of Met officers found guilty of sexual misconduct over a four-year period to 2020 kept their jobs, a total of 43 officers out of 83 or 52 per cent.

Along with the handling of the Everard case, the Metropolitan Police are also facing heat over an independent panel's finding of 'institutional corruption' in the investigation into the unsolved murder of Daniel Morgan in 1987.

The private investigator was murdered in a south London car park and the panel found that the Met concealed or denied failures in their investigation.
The judge in Kyle Rittenhouse's case will allow the defense to refer to the men he shot as 'rioters,' 'looters' or 'arsonists' after banning the term 'victim' at trial.

Kenosha County Circuit Judge Bruce Schroeder ruled that lawyers for the now-18-year-old Kyle Rittenhouse will be free to the call the men the teen shot 'rioters,' 'looters,' or 'arsonists' at trial as long as they provide evidence, Insider reported.

Rittenhouse is charged with homicide and attempted homicide for fatally shooting Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber, as well as wounding Gaige Grosskreutz, at a Black Lives Matter protest on August 25, 2020.

Kyle Rittenhouse, 18, (pictured) faces homicide and attempted homicide charges for fatally shooting Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber & wounding Gaige Grosskreutz

Kenosha County Circuit Judge Bruce Schroeder (pictured) ruled that Kyle Rittenhouse's lawyers will be free to use the call the men the teen shot 'rioters,' 'looters,' or 'arsonists' at trial

The trial of Kyle Rittenhouse, accused of shooting three people during a protest against police brutality in Wisconsin last year, is set to begin November 1

Schroeder ruled against prosecutors' motion to prohibit Rittenhouse's attorneys from using 'prerogative terms' to refer to Rosenbaum, Huber and Grosskreutz or mention their criminal history.

Assistant District Attorney Thomas Binger argued that Rittenhouse's attorneys should not be able to use the terms during trial since prosecutors will not be able to refer to the three men as 'victims.'

But Schroeder said the two situations were not comparable and pointed out it is common for judges to ban the word 'victim' during trials because it could prejudice a jury against a defendant, Insider reported.

Schroeder said since the three men are not on trial, Rittenhouse's attorneys are free to describe them as 'rioters,' 'looters' or 'arsonists' as long as they provide evidence that the men were rioting, looting, or committing arson, Insider reported.

'He can demonize him if he wants, if he thinks he'll score points with the jury,' Schroeder told prosecutors, adding that in turn prosecutors themselves would be free to use terms like 'cold-blooded killer' to describe Rittenhouse, as long as they back it up with evidence.

Rittenhouse's trial is set to begin November 1.

Rittenhouse was 17 when he killed Rosenbaum and Huber at riots sparked by the police shooting of black man Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin during August 2020.

On August 25, 2020 Rittenhouse fatally shot Joseph Rosenbaum (left) and Anthony Huber (right)

Gaig Grosskruetz (pictured) was shot and wounded by Kyle Rittenhouse in August 2020

Rittenhouse (picrtured) was 17 when he killed Rosenbaum and Huber at riots sparked by the police shooting of black man Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin during August 2020

Rittenhouse's attorneys have argued that he fired in self-defense after Rosenbaum, Huber, and Grosskreutz attacked him.

The teen's lawyers also want the court to allow them to call, John R. Black, a self-defense expert, as a witness to back up their assertions.

Black, a former Washington County, Oregon, sheriff's deputy, has testified in numerous state and federal cases, offering his expertise in police use of force, decision-making, crowd control, and other procedures and practices related to law enforcement.

Prosecutors charged Rittenhouse with multiple counts, including homicide and being a minor in possession of a firearm.

He traveled from Antioch, Illinois, on the night of the fatal shootings to help 'protect' the streets of Kenosha from violent protest triggered by Blake's shooting.

The defense team for Rittenhouse previously tried, unsuccessfully, to have his previous weapons charge dismissed from his indictment.

Explaining their application to have the weapons charge dismissed, Chirafisi, one of Rittenhouse's attorneys, argued that the statute only prohibits minors from possessing short-barreled rifles.

Rittenhouse used an AR-style semiautomatic rifle with a 16-inch barrel the night of the shootings, according to Chirafisi.

The only other prohibitions on minors possessing firearms lie in the state's hunting statutes, which state that children under 12 can't hunt with guns.

That doesn't apply to Rittenhouse because he was 17 on the night of the shootings, Chirafisi said.

Binger countered that the Legislature clearly intended to bar anyone under 18 from 'running around with a dangerous weapon' and that the hunting statutes don't apply because Rittenhouse wasn't hunting on the night of the protest.

Schroeder sided with Binger, but he said he might revisit the question later because the statutes aren't clear.

Prosecutors also were looking for permission to introduce a video showing Rittenhouse saying he'd like to shoot some men he thought were shoplifting from a pharmacy 15 days before the protest.

Schroeder said last month that he was leaning toward excluding it.

Schroeder last month denied both sides' request to send questionnaires to potential jurors to probe biases.

The judge wrote in a letter to the attorneys that he's afraid people won't fill them out and recipients would discuss the case with family members, friends and co-workers.

'That may trigger even more conversations about the case, with consequent opinion formation,' Schroeder said.

Kenosha was in the throes of several nights of chaotic protests in August 2020 after a white police officer shot Blake, who is black, during a domestic disturbance, leaving Blake paralyzed from the waist down.

The officer, Rusten Sheskey, was not charged. Sheskey shot Blake seven times while Blake was about to get into an SUV.

Kenoshas police chief, Daniel Miskinis, said Sheskey was found to have been acting within policy and will not be disciplined.

The shooting happened three months after George Floyd was murdered while being restrained by police officers in Minneapolis.

Earlier this year, Blake filed a civil lawsuit accusing the officer of excessive force.

Rittenhouse, now 18, traveled to the city in response to social media posts asking for help defending city businesses.

Many conservatives flocked to support Rittenhouse, calling him a patriot for seeking to stop violent protests, making him a symbol for gun rights and raising $2million for his bail.

Others, including some liberals and activists, portrayed him as a domestic terrorist and said he made a volatile situation worse by bringing a rifle to the streets of Kenosha.
Frances Haugen's evidence to Parliament and the US Congress has made headlines around the world.

But MailOnline can reveal the Facebook whistleblower's campaign against the company's alleged online failings is far from a one-woman affair.

The 37-year-old former tech executive at the company is backed by a high-powered team of lawyers and media strategists.

Most are connected to Whitstleblower Aid, a free-speech organisation founded in 2017 helping those who wish to call out big business and government.

As she gave evidence to British MPs at the Commons Online Safety Bill committee she was flanked by two of the charity's leading human rights lawyers from each side of the Atlantic.

Former Facebook executive Frances Haugen is backed by a high-powered team of lawyers and media strategists. As she gave evidence to MPs in Parliament yesterday, Haugen was flanked by two lawyers. Seen just to the left behind her was Andrew Bakaj, a former CIA officer who was closely involved in the impeachment action against former President Donald Trump. Next to him was London-based Matthew Jury, who works for solicitors McCue Law

Bakaj (left) was closely involved in the impeachment action against former President Donald Trump

On one side was London-based Matthew Jury who works for solicitors McCue Law, who are retained by Whistleblower Aid in the UK.

Unusually, Mr Jury is licensed to practise both as a solicitor in England and Wales and also as an attorney in New York.

He has various specialties including human rights and counter-terrorism law and has acted for the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Defence, as well as for the families of British soldiers killed during the Iraq war.

On Haugen's other side, dapperly dressed with a red silk tie and wearing an expensive watch, was Andrew Bakaj, a former CIA officer who was closely involved in the impeachment action against former President Donald Trump.

Who is Pierre Omidyar, the tech billionaire bankrolling Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen? Billionaire Pierre Omidyar, who has an estimated net worth of $21.4 billion and is a critic of big tech, founded the online marketplace eBay in 1995. He has spent years funding the fight against big tech companies, which he criticizes for being overly powerful and having a destructive effect on democracy. Omidyar has provided financial backing for non-profit news organization The Intercept, and for the open internet advocacy group Public Knowledge. Last month, the Omidyar Network posted a 39-page document last year titled the 'Roadmap for an Antitrust Case Against Facebook'. Haugen's representatives did not say how much support Omidyar had offered to her directly or indirectly. Politico reported that Omidyar's network only became involved in the case after Haugen went public. The source stressed that the organization had not been involved or working behind the scenes in the months leading up to her early October bombshell, and only asked what it could do to help once they learned of her public disclosures. The eBay founder is currently 83rd on the world billionaires list. Advertisement

He filed the initial complaint leading to the launch of various US Congress investigations into the Trump-Ukraine scandal.

Meanwhile, back in the U.S. are more heavyweight lawyers and wealthy patrons who have financed the trip to the UK and Europe (they are set to visit Belgium and Germany next).

Her chief PR advisor, Bill Burton, was deputy press secretary to President Barack Obama.

He now works for LA-to-Washington PR giant Bryson Gillette, which has helped run a massive media campaign in the United States based on Ms Haugen's tranche of leaked papers from Facebook.

He has helped run a massive media campaign in the United States based on Ms Haugen's tranche of leaked papers from Facebook.

Another major backer in her war of words against Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg is in fact a tech billionaire himself - eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, whose philanthropic company Luminate is said to be handling the European side of her press and government relations.

And the man who co-founded Whistleblower Aid is American attorney Mark Zaid.

He once acted for former Harrods owner Mohammed Al Fayed against the CIA in the controversial 2001 case in which he unsuccessfully claimed on behalf of his client that the US spy agency was carrying out surveillance on Princess Diana shortly before her death in Paris in 1997.

The other co-founder, John Tye, was himself a former State Department official who blew the whistle on government electronic surveillance.

Whistleblower Aid describes itself as 'A pioneering, non-profit legal organization that helps patriotic government employees and brave, private-sector workers report and publicize their concerns  safely, lawfully, and responsibly.

'Our professional legal advice is confidential, but never ideological or partisan. Unless we recover a monetary award, everything we do for clients is free.'

Their website adds: 'We help government employees and private-sector workers uphold their obligations and protect the public.

Whistleblower Aid provides lawful alternatives to illicit leaking.

Haugen is embroiled in a war of words with Facebook CEO and founder Mark Zuckerberg

'No one should have to risk their career or their freedom to follow their conscience.'

To cover its expenses, the organisation solicits donations from foundations and crowdsourced funding and in the case of Ms Haugen, a separate 'go fund me' page was set up earlier this month which was well on its way to $64,000 today, with a target of $100,000.

Whistleblower Aid, which set up Ms Haugen's funding page, said the money raised would help 'make sure she's got the backup she needs as she stands up to speak the truth.'

Mr Jury was asked by MailOnline about Ms Haugen's supporters, but declined to answer who had specifically funded her trip to London and other European capitals, or where the team stayed.

The most likely source of the lion's share of the funding is Mr Omidyar, a well-known critic of Big Tech whose foundation donated $150,000 to Whistleblower Aid last year.

Luminate, is also providing Haugen's PR operations in Europe, Politico's Emily Birnbaum wrote.

Another major backer in her war of words against Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg is in fact a tech billionaire himself - eBay founder Pierre Omidyar, whose philanthropic company Luminate is said to be handling the European side of her press and government relations

Burton comes from the Center for Humane Technology, a group which Omidyar also funds.

'When Frances Haugen went public Luminate decided to step forward and directly support her efforts to promote a broad public debate about the issues that the disclosures raise,' a Luminate spokesperson told Insider.

The varied interests arrayed behind Ms Haugen have been attacked as being partisan by former Guardian journalist Glenn Greenwald, who broke the story of Edward Snowden's revelations about US state surveillance.

He wrote on Mediaite.com: 'None of the swooning over this new Facebook heroine nor any of the other media assaults on Facebook have anything remotely to do with a concern over those genuine dangers.

'Congress has taken no steps to curb the influence of these Silicon Valley giants because Facebook and Google drown the establishment wings of both parties with enormous amounts of cash and pay well-connected lobbyists who are friends and former colleagues of key lawmakers to use their D.C. influence to block reform.

Her chief PR advisor, Bill Burton, was deputy press secretary to President Barack Obama

The man who co-founded Whistleblower Aid is American attorney Mark Zaid

Mr Jury (file photo) was asked by MailOnline about Ms Haugen's supporters, but declined to answer who had specifically funded her trip to London and other European capitals, or where the team stayed

'With the exception of a few stalwarts, neither party's ruling wing really has any objection to this monopolistic power as long as it is exercised to advance their own interests.'

Jury represented former British Army soldier Dennis Hutchings before his death last week. He also represented Sarah Jane Young, whose father was killed in an IRA bombing in Hyde Park in 1982.

A spokesperson for Luminate told Mailonline: 'Luminate is funding her travel expenses.

'When Frances Haugen went public Luminate decided to step forward and directly support her efforts to promote a broad public debate about the issues that the disclosures raise.

'We announced this support in a blog post on the 19th of October.

'We are the only organisation from The Omidyar Group that is directly supporting the work of Frances Haugen and her team.

'Our support will help cover the travel, logistics and communications costs of Frances' team.

'We encourage all those organisations who want to tackle these digital threats to democracy to join us in these efforts.

'Whistleblower Aid and Larry Lessig are her pro bono legal counsel. And Bryson Gillette has been hired by her legal counsel to advise on PR strategy.'
An illegal immigrant from Guatemala living in Florida killed a 5-year-old girl after the unlicensed drunk driver smashed into her mother car's and then fled the scene to down some more beers, police said.

Ernesto Lopez Morales, 32, was speeding in a 2005 black Chevrolet Suburban with his headlights turned off around 8.30 pm on Saturday in Mulberry when he rammed into the back of a 2016 Hyundai Elantra, according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

The Elantra was pushed more than 600 feet before skidding to a stop. The 5-year-old girl who was sitting in the back seat died upon impact and was pronounced dead at the scene, police said, while the woman was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

Morales left his car and fled the scene of the crash on foot, witnesses told police, and ran to the house where he was staying about 30 miles east of Tampa. When authorities found him there, he told them that he had drank six 32-ounce cans of beer and left to buy more.

His blood alcohol content was .108, over the Florida legal limit of 0.08, when it was measured hours after the crash at the police station, officials said.

Ernesto Lopez Morales, 32 (pictured), was speeding in a 2005 black Chevrolet Suburban with his headlights turned off around 8.30 pm on Saturday when he rear-ended a 2016 Hyundair Elantra in Mulberry, according to the Polk County Sheriff's Office.

The Elantra was pushed more than 600 feet before skidding to a stop. The 5-year-old girl who was sitting in the back seat died at the scene, police said, while the woman was taken to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries

Morales fled the scene of the crash on foot, witnesses told police, and ran home. When authorities found him there, he told them that he had drunk six 32-ounce cans of beer and left to buy more

'A little 5-year-old beautiful baby was crushed to death,' Sheriff Grady Judd told Tampa Bay's WTVT-TV

'A little 5-year-old beautiful baby was crushed to death,' Sheriff Grady Judd told Tampa Bay's WTVT-TV.

'Had he been in his home country last Saturday night like he should have been, our 5-year-old beautiful little girl would have been alive.'

Neither mother nor daughter were identified by police.

Morales didn't have a driver's license in Florida, or in any other state.

'He also told deputies he left the crash because he doesnt have insurance or a drivers license,' Judd said. 'He flees the scene and leaves the five-year-old and for that matter would have left the mother for dead.'

Sheriff Grady Judd (pictured) told Tampa Bay's WTVT-TV that Morales didn't have a driver's license in any state, and that he was the second undocumented person to kill an American 'in about a week'

He was charged with driving under the influence, manslaughter, leaving the scene of a crash involving death and DUI property damage, and is being held on a $22,500 bond, according to Polk County jail records.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has initiated a hold on him, according to FOX News.

'This is the second person in about a week that's been killed by someone illegally in this country,' Judd said. 'It's a problem.'
The Biden administration issued its most forceful public condemnation of Israel's West Bank settlements yet on Tuesday, when State Department spokesman Ned Price compared them to 'illegal outposts' in remarks to reporters.

Price said the US government will 'strongly oppose' such expansion on occupied Palestinian land.

The Biden official's criticism was some of the strongest in years on Israel after previous leader Donald Trump gave his blessing to settlements and annexations.

'We are deeply concerned about the Israeli government's plan to advance thousands of settlement units,' Price said at a State Department briefing.

'We strongly oppose the expansion of settlements, which is completely inconsistent with efforts to lower tensions and to ensure calm, and it damages the prospects for a two-state solution,' he said.

'We also view plans for the retroactive legalization of illegal outposts as unacceptable.'

Ned Price compared Israel's settlements in the West Bank to 'illegal outposts'

Price stopped short of saying the decision would jeopardize relations with Israel but said that the United States was raising the issue with its close ally.

The housing and construction ministry under Prime Minister Naftali Bennett, a right-winger close to the settlement movement who leads a coalition with centrists, on Sunday announced tenders for 1,355 homes in the West Bank, which has been occupied by Israel since the 1967 Six-Day War.

Authorities are also expected to discuss proposals for an additional 3,000 homes on land Palestinians have claimed for their future state, Reuters reported.

If approved it will be the first formal expansion in the region since President Joe Biden took office.

Palestinian prime minister Mohammed Shtayyeh had urged Washington to 'confront' Israel on its 'aggression' through the settlements.

Biden officials have also privately objected to the construction of 3,000 new homes, Axios reported on Tuesday.

This picture taken on July 16, 2021 shows a view of the Israeli settlement of Efrat on the southern outskirts of Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank

Sources told the outlet that a phone call between Charge dAffaires of the United States Embassy in Israel Michael Ratney and Bennett foreign policy aide Shimrit Meir was 'difficult' following the announcement of the expansion.

Ratney's strongest objection was reportedly over new construction

Price's tone on Tuesday was consistent with past warnings to Israeli officials.

On Friday, he said: 'We are concerned about the announcement of a meeting next week to advance settlement units deep in the West Bank, and believe it is critical for Israel and the Palestinian Authority to refrain from unilateral steps that exacerbate tension and undercut efforts to advance a negotiated two-state solution.'

Palestine's Foreign Affairs Ministry warned the same day that Israel's actions will have a 'catastrophic impact' on future peace talks.

US-facilitated negotiations between Israel and Palestinian authorities fell apart in 2014.

Biden officials issued their strongest public rebuke of Israel's settlements yet (pictured: Biden meeting new Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett)

Settlement construction boomed when Trump was US president. Former Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu capitalized on his close relationship with the Republican leader

When Trump was president, the West Bank saw an Israeli construction boom with more than 9,000 new homes built, according to anti-settlement watchdog Peace Now.

The Trump administration, which was backed by evangelical Christians who see biblical reasons for supporting a Jewish homeland, revised longstanding State Department guidance and said it did not consider settlements illegal.

It was a sharp shift from the previous Democratic administration of Barack Obama who faced open criticism from Israel's veteran right-wing prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, particularly over US diplomacy with Iran.

In one of its last acts, the Obama administration declined to exercise the routine US veto at the UN Security Council and allowed a resolution against Israeli settlements to pass through.

According to the group 63 percent of the homes built during Trump's last year as US president were in outlying settlements that would likely be evacuated in any peace agreement.

Israel's West Bank settlements are largely seen as illegal by the global community.
President Joe Biden and his Democrats are close to a final deal on his multi-trillion spending packing of social programs with an agreement possibly coming as soon Tuesday even as the final details of the legislation remain a mystery.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi told reporters on Capitol Hill that the legislation is 90 per cent finished.

'There's not much more time,' Pelosi said. 'We have to have decisions largely today. A little bit into tomorrow. So we can proceed.'

And Rep. Joyce Beatty, chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, came out of White House meeting with President Joe Biden to say moderates and progressives in the party are close to agreement even as she declined

'We are very close,' she said.

And Rep. Jackie Spiers, who was in the White House meeting, nodded yes when reporters asked if a deal could come Tuesday.

Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, center, Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, standing with other House Democrats, talks to reporters outside the West Wing of the White House after a meeting with President Biden

President Joe Biden and his Democrats are close to a final deal on his multi-trillion spending packing of social programs with an agreement possibly coming as soon Tuesday

But the same issues remain unresolved between the two wings of the party: climate programs, Medicaid expansion, paid family leave, immigration and taxes.

And there is no sign of agreement. And there are no details on what the final version of those provisions will look like.

'We are just missing two things,' said Democratic Rep. Brendan Boyle. 'What exactly is going to be in the bill and how we're going to pay for it? Other than that we are good to go.'

The outstanding questions: how many weeks of paid family leave; will there be a Medicaid expansion for hearing aids, dental and eyeglasses; what will cliamte change programs look like; and how will the legislation be paid for.

'Admittedly, I'm not going to get into the specifics because we're not 100% there yet,' Beatty conceded.

But Biden, Pelosi and top Democrats leaders have honed their sales pitch as the clock ticks toward the president's trip to Europe on Thursday. He has made it clear to lawmakers he'd like a deal completed before he leaves.

Leadership is now reminding lawmakers that even if this bill doesn't have every item on their wish list, it's better than nothing.

'The president talked about how transformational this bill will be. And that even though we may not have everything that we want in the bill that this will lay the groundwork for so much relief for working families in America,' Rep. Judy Chu said after the meeting with Biden.

'He pledged to continue on whatever is not in the bill. He pledged to continue working on that till the end of his term,' she added.

The lawmakers came out of their meeting carrying candy boxes of M&Ms and hershey kisses with the White House logo.

On Capitol Hill talks are continuing with members of the White House's legislative team working with lawmakers, particularly moderate Senators Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema.

But signs of frustration are showing.

'The Senate needs to start saying yes or no on issues and stop f***ing talking,' Rep. Jimmy Gomez told Politico.

However, vast differences among Democrats remain over the basic contours of the sweeping proposal and how to pay for it. It's now estimated to total at least $1.75 trillion over 10 years, and could still be more.

Democrats, late Tuesday, did unveil a new plan for corporate minimum tax that would apply to about 200 companies that report more than $1 billion in profits. It creates a 15% minimum tax on profits reported to shareholders and would include some 'preservations for business credits.'

Sinema announced her support for it.

'This proposal represents a commonsense step toward ensuring that highly profitable corporations  which sometimes can avoid the current corporate tax rate  pay a reasonable minimum corporate tax on their profits,' she said in a statement.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said Bidens preference was still to have a deal in hand before departing, but she acknowledged that might not happen, forcing him to keep working on the package from afar.

'There are phones on Air Force One and also in Europe,' Psaki told reporters.

Resolving the revenue side is key as the Democrats scale back what had been a $3.5 trillion plan, insisting all the new spending will be fully paid for and not pile onto the debt. Biden vows any new taxes would hit only the wealthy, those earning more than $400,000 a year, or $450,000 for couples.

The White House had to rethink its tax strategy after Sinema objected to her party's initial proposal to raise tax rates on wealthy Americans by undoing the Trump-era tax cuts on those earning beyond $400,000. Sinema also opposed lifting the 21% corporate tax rate. With a 50-50 Senate, Biden has no votes to spare in his party.

Instead, to win over Sinema and others, the White House floated the new idea of taxing the assets of billionaires and another that would require corporations to pay a 15% minimum tax, regardless of if they show any profits. Those both appear to be gaining traction Manchin, who told reporters he supported new ways to ensure the wealthy to pay their 'fair share.'

Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee, led by Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, are prepared to roll out the tax revenue plan in a matter of days. It is likely to include other revenue-raising tax measures, though a plan to beef up the IRS to go after tax scofflaws faces new resistance from Manchin.

'Here's the heart of it: Americans read over the last few months that billionaires were paying little or no taxes for years on end,' Wyden said at the Capitol.

The billionaires tax is being modeled on a 2019 bill from Wyden to treat assets as income. Another idea, up to a 3% ultra-rich surtax, has been proposed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

Under Wydens emerging plan, the billionaires tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people. It would require those with assets of more than $1 billion, or three-years consecutive income of $100 million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

A similar billionaires tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires tax rate has not been set, but it is expected to be at least the 20% capital gains rate. Democrats have said it could raise $200 billion in revenue that could help fund Biden's package over 10 years.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called it a 'hare-brained scheme.' Some Republicans indicated such a tax plan could be challenged in court.

But key fellow Democrats are also raising concerns, saying the idea of simply undoing the 2017 tax cuts by hiking top rates was more straightforward and transparent.

Under the House's bill from the Ways and Means Committee, the top individual income tax rate would rise from 37% to 39.6%, on those earning more than $400,000, or $450,000 for couples. The corporate rate would increase from 21% to 26.5%. The bill also proposed a 3% surtax on wealthier Americans with adjusted income beyond $5 million a year.

Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Biden's social spending package was 90% complete

The panel's chairman, Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., said that he told Wyden that the implementation of the senator's proposed billionaire's plan is 'a bit more challenging.'

Neal suggested that the House's proposal was not off the table. In fact, he said, 'our plan looks better every day.'

Once Democrats agree to the tax proposals, they can assess how much is funding available for Biden's overall package to expand health care, child care and other climate change programs.

Democrats were hoping Biden could cite major accomplishments to world leaders later this week. They are also facing an Oct. 31 deadline to pass a related $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package of roads, broadband and other public works before routine federal transportation funds expire Sunday.

After months of start-and-stop negotiations, disputes remain.

Among the unresolved provisions: plans to expand Medicare coverage with dental, vision and hearing aid benefits for seniors; child care assistance; free pre-kindergarten; a new program of four-weeks paid family leave; and a more limited plan than envisioned to lower prescription drug costs.

The climate change provisions may be resolving now that White House floated a new strategy to beef up clean energy incentives after Manchin rejected a more punitive approach.

Pelosi said she expected an agreement by weeks end, paving the way for a House vote on the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill that stalled during deliberations on the broader Biden bill.

But Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus whose support will be crucial for both bills, said lawmakers want more than just a framework for Biden's plan before they give their votes for the smaller infrastructure package.

'We want to vote on both bills at the same time,' Jayapal said.
Alex Proyas, the director who suffered through a tragic shooting on the set of his movie The Crow nearly three decades ago, was pictured for the first time on Tuesday in Australia since a cinematographer was shot dead on the set of an Alec Baldwin film last week.

Proyas, 58, was helming a film with actor Brandon Lee in 1994 that was supposed to be the breakout role for the son of martial arts legend Bruce Lee when the young star suffered the same tragic fate as Halyna Hutchins.

Just a week before The Crow was scheduled to wrap up, the 28-year-old actor was fatally shot in the stomach by a dummy bullet lodged in a .44-caliber handgun and fired by his co-star, Michael Masse, at close range.

He went on to direct a number of other movies like Dark City in 1998, I Robot in 2004, and Gods of Egypt in 2016.

When asked about his thoughts on the fatal shooting of Hutchins on the set of Rust last week, Proyas initially asked: 'Why would I have anything to say about it.'

But when pressed on the issue as he returned to his car after running errands in Sydney on Tuesday, Proyas said the issue proves movie producers and directors should 'stop using guns on sets.'

'There is no reason to use real guns on sets,' he said, noting: 'They should have stopped using them a long time ago.'

Crow director Alex Proyas was seen for the first time since an accidental shooting on a movie set last week killed an up and coming cinematographer

Proyas was seen running errands in Sydney, Australia on Tuesday

He directed late actor Brandon Lee on Crow, the 1994 film that was supposed to be the breakout role for the young star when he was fatally shot on set

When asked his thoughts on the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins on the set of Rust last week, Proyas initially asked: 'Why would I have anything to say about it?'

But when pressed, he said: 'There is no reason to use real guns on sets'

His words echo those of Eliza Hutton, Lee's fiancee when he was killed in 1993, and Shannon Lee, Brendon's sister.

Brandon and Eliza were set to wed on April 17, 1993, in Ensenada, Mexico a week after Brandon was supposed to wrap filming for The Crow.

However on March 31, 1993 Brandon died at age 28 after he was accidently killed while filming a scene for the movie.

She told People that Halyna Hutchins' accidental death last week on Rust was an 'avoidable tragedy and urged those with the power to make the changes to 'consider alternatives to real guns on set.'

Shannon, meanwhile, told The Hollywood Reporter: 'I have been in contact with my mom and with my brothers fiancee. A lot of people have been reaching out. Its stirring up a lot of emotions  and frustration.

'I think that in this day and age with all the special effects that are possible and all of the technology, there is no reason to have a prop gun or a gun on a set that can fire a projectile of any sort. It is not necessary, and I would love to see some changes made industry-wide.

'My brothers fiancee and I have been talking about it. I think we wish we had thought to do more 28 years ago, and we would love to do that now.'

Actor Brandon Lee was fatally shot in the stomach by a dummy bullet lodged in a .44 caliber handgun and fired by his co-star, Michael Masse, in close range on the set of Crow in 1993

Brandon Lee's fiancee Eliza Hutton said that cinematographer Haylna Hutchins' accidental death last week on Rust was an 'avoidable tragedy' she told People; Eliza Hutton is seen here with Brandon Lee at the Little Man Tate Hollywood premiere on October 6, 1991

Brandon, the son of Bruce Lee, and Eliza were set to wet on April 17, 1993 in Ensenada, Mexico a week after Brandon was supposed to wrap filming for The Crow

Alec Baldwin, Rust star and producer, discharged the gun that killed Halyna and injured director Joel Souza last Thursday while filming a scene.

Prior to the incident, first assistant director David Halls told crew members that the revolver being handled by Baldwin, the film's lead actor and producer, was a 'cold gun,' a term used by filmmakers to indicate that a prop gun is safe to handle and not loaded with live ammunition.

The weapon was one of three prop guns that the film's rookie armorer, Hanna Gutierrez Reed, 24, had set up outside the set location on a gray cart, in the desert near the city of Santa Fe.

According to search warrant executed by the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office last week, Gutierrez Reed was the last person to handle the gun, leaving it along with the two other revolvers unattended on the cart in the early hours of October 21.

It is at this point, an insider told The Wrap, that a group of crew members took the weapons without the director and first director's knowledge, and forgot to unload the firearm in question.

Halls, meanwhile, had been fired from another film, Freedom's Path, in 2019 after a crew member was injured following the unexpected discharge of a weapon on set, a producer who spoke on the condition on anonymity told The Washington Post on Monday.

'Halls was removed from set immediately after the prop gun was discharged,' the producer said, adding: 'Production did not resume filming until Dave was off-site,' and 'an incident report was taken and filed at that time.'

Representatives for the production of Rust did not immediately respond to DailyMail.com's request for comment on the matter, but in a previous statement issued to multiple outlets, Rust Movie Productions said: 'The safety of our cast and crew is the top priority of Rust Productions and everyone associated with the company.

'Though we were not made aware of any official complaints concerning weapon or prop safety on set, we will be conducting an internal review of our procedures while production is shut down.

'We will continue to cooperate with the Santa Fe authorities in their investigation and offer mental health services to the cast and crew during this tragic time.'

Halyna Hutchins, 42, a Ukranian filmmaker and journalist and cinematographer on the film, succumbed to her injuries after the accidental shooting on the set of Rust last week

Hutchins was considered an up and coming cinematographer at the time of her death

The shooting occurred in the desert near Santa Fe, New Mexico

However, an actor on the film's set directly contradicted the company's statement, revealing to TMZ Tuesday that filming often felt 'life-threatening' - a sentiment that was then echoed by other members of the production.

The actor, Ian A. Hudson, told to the outlet that he felt particularly terrified filming a scene where his character was gunned down by a crowd of other actors using nearly a dozen guns - all of which were real.

'I actually did feel the blanks hitting my face and my body. I could feel the wind from the shotgun being discharged,' the actor said, 'It was heavy. It was strong  It was life-threatening. It felt too surreal.'

Hudson then noted and some of the other actors would often double and triple-check their weapons regardless of whether they were given the OK from the film's armorer and staff.

Hudson also revealed that the production on a 'rushed schedule' - a sentiment that was echoed by both the newly released search warrant and the insider's revelation to The Wrap.

And he told of how cameras and crew were protected by plastic shields - but that cast members were left without any sort of barrier.

The warrant confirmed that six members of the films camera crew, members of the protesting IATSE, had walked off the set the day of the incident - citing qualms about housing, payment and working conditions - forcing producers to scramble to find replacements.

Ian Hudson, pictured on the set of Rust, said he and his fellow actors grew worried over gun safety on stage as they often checked their weapons multiple times

An inconsolable Baldwin is shown outside the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office after accidentally shooting and killing the cinematographer

What's more, according to The Wrap's insider, instead of shutting down production once they found themselves suddenly shorthanded, producers elected to hire replacements outside of the union in order to continue the shoot.

This monkey wrench in the film's operations - on the day of the accidental shooting -caused shooting Thursday to start late, Souza told an investigator after the incident, according to the warrant.

But even with the crew in disarray and the fact that one of the set's prop guns was placed out in the open and was at some point loaded before a scene, experts have attested that there are systems in place on the set of any film, to ensure prop guns are inspected before they even enter an active set.

For that reason alone, Gutierrez Reed, Halls and Baldwin could face a series of legal - or even criminal - ramifications.

According to the warrant, Souza revealed that the cast and crew prepared the scene before lunch and then had their meal away from the shooting location around 12:30 pm.

The director then told investigators that he was not sure if the gun was checked again when everyone returned from lunch.

He did, however, state that protocol dictates that props are supposed to be checked by the armorer, Gutierrez Reed, and then the assistant director, Halls, before finally handing them over to the actor.

He also specified to Santa Fe sheriffs that he could not recall if people were checked for live ammunition while on set - but stated that live ammunition should not have been anywhere near the scene that day, or any other for that matter.

An investigation concerning the incident is still ongoing.

No criminal charges have been filed.
A police officer has been shot to death by a man at a gas station in an Illinois suburb of St. Louis, authorities said.

Pontoon Beach Officer Tyler Timmins, 36, succumbed to his injuries at a St. Louis hospital after the shooting around 8am on Tuesday, Trooper Jayme Bufford of the Illinois State Police confirmed.

Timmins was shot at a Speedway gas station along Route 111 when he approached a car in the gas station's parking lot because he suspected it had been stolen.

The suspect was taken into custody.

The officer was rushed to a hospital in nearby Granite City before being airlifted to a St. Louis hospital where he was pronounced dead, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Pontoon Beach Officer Tyler Timmins, 36, (left) succumbed to his injuries at a St. Louis hospital after the shooting around 8am on Tuesday

Police investigate the scene of a shooting on Tuesday at the Speedway gas station in Pontoon Beach. A police officer died Tuesday after being shot by a man at the gas station

The vehicle that apparently sparked the officer's interest was a stolen Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with Missouri license plates.

Illinois State Police are investigating the shooting. The Madison County State's Attorney's Office said the investigation continues, and charges will be filed once the request is submitted.

Bufford did not immediately release additional information, saying that 'the investigation is in its infancy.'

Edwardsville Police Chief Michael Fillback said officers throughout the area are filling in on patrol for Pontoon Beach because that city's officers were so shaken by the shooting.

Timmins had previously served the nearby Worden community as the police chief in 2016, Mayor Preston Hall said in a Facebook post.

Police officers embrace while waiting outside the emergency room at Gateway Medical Center in Granite City.

Officer Timmins is survived by his wife, according to BackStoppers, a group that provides assistance to the families of fallen first responders.

The BackStoppers foundation said that it would provide immediate assistance of $10,000 to the Timmins' family to help cover emergency expenses.

'Our hearts are heavy today as we are faced with the loss of Officer Tyler Timmins,' said Chief Ron Battelle, BackStoppers Executive Director.

'He was a hero who dedicated his life to serving and protecting our community. Officer Timmins will be honored and remembered and we will be there for his family for the long road ahead,' said Battelle.

Those interested in supporting the BackStoppers foundation can donate on the group's website.
The progressive group End Citizens United filed two complaints Tuesday against Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene over an ad she stars in that slaps Senate Republicans for supporting the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill.

End Citizens United filed complaints with the Federal Elections Commission and the Office of Congressional Ethics claiming Greene violated campaign finance laws and also used her campaign committee and leadership PAC for official Congressional activities.

'Congresswoman Greene has shown a blatant disregard for the law and is engaging in corrupt Washington practices,' said End Citizens United President Tiffany Muller in a statement Tuesday. 'Using her leadership PAC in an attempt to get around federal law and regulations is both unethical and illegal. Both the FEC and OCE should immediately begin an investigation and hold her accountable for her self-serving and shady practices.'

The progressive group End Citizens United filed two complaints Tuesday against Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene over an ad she stars in that slaps Senate Republicans for supporting the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill

The ad in question features Greene calling out '19 cowardly Republicans' for joining Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and the Senate Democrats to vote for the bill, which passed the Senate 69-30 in August.

'It's really the first step of Biden's communization of America,' Greene says.

'Now it goes to the House where Republicans need to stay united and stop this bill,' she continues.

Greene warns that the infrastructure bill is attached to the $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill that she says promotes 'woke identity politics' and 'AOC's pro-China Green New Deal.'

'It's time for Republicans to stay united, stand strong and vote no,' Greene says, as the number of the Congressional switchboard flashes on-screen.

The ad, created in August, aired on television as an ad paid for and approved by her campaign committee.

A month later, Greene's leadership PAC - Save America Stop Socialiam PAC - aired a nearly identical ad.

The only difference between the two spots was the disclaimer at the end, which originally said Greene approved of the ad, but later said SASS PAC was responsible for the content of the ad.

End Citizens United argues in the FEC complaint that when a leadership PAC pays for 'coordinated communications' with the campaign, the campaign must report an in-kind contribution.

Additionally, the contribution cannot exceed $5,000 per election cycle.

'Greene's campaign committee violated campaign finance laws when they did not report her leadership PACs TV ad as an in-kind contribution,' the Tuesday release from Ends Citizens United said.

The complaint filed with the Office of Congressional Ethics accuses Greene of using her campaign committee and leadership PAC for official Congressional activities as she's lobbying against a specific piece of legislation in the spot.

'Under federal law, members of Congress cannot use outside sources of money to fund their official government activities,' the release from End Citizens United explained.

'By airing ads paid for by her principal campaign committee and her leadership PAC that explicitly opposed a specific piece of legislation and lobbied supporters against the bill, Congresswoman Greene violated those provisions of federal law and House rules,' it said.
Former Weather Underground radical David Gilbert, the father of the current San Francisco's District Attorney, has been granted parole after 40 years behind bars for his role in a deadly 1981 Brink's robbery that was a violent echo of left-wing extremism born in the 1960s.

Gilbert, 76, has been imprisoned since shortly after the infamously botched armored car robbery in which a guard and two police officers were killed.

He became eligible for parole only after his 75 years-to-life sentence was shortened by Governor Andrew Cuomo in August, who said Gilbert was the 'driver, not the killer' hours before he left office.

Gilbert appeared before the state parole board October 19 and was subsequently granted parole, Thomas Mailey, a spokesperson for the New York state corrections department, said Tuesday.

He will be able to leave Shawangunk Correctional Facility in the Hudson Valley next month.

Pictured, law officials escort a handcuffed David Gilbert, second from left, from Rockland County Court in New City on November 23, 1981

San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin, second from left, is shown with his wife Valerie Block, far left, his father David Gilbert, and mother Kathy Boudin, right at Wende Correctional Facility in Alden, New York

Gilbert and his wife, who were members of the Weather Underground militant group, took part in a botched robbery of this Brink's armored truck in October 1981 in Nanuet, New York

David Gilbert, right, is escorted by police into the Village Hall in Nyack, New York, Oct. 24, 1981 for hearing on murder charges stemming from the Brink's robbery in Nanuet,NY

Supporters - including his son Boudin - lobbied to have Gilbert join other defendants in the case who have been released from prison.

'My heart if bursting... my dad - who's been in prison nearly my entire life - was granted clemency,' tweeted Boudin.

'He never intended harm, yet his crime devastated many families. My heart breaks for the families that can never get their loved ones back.'

Boudin was just a year old when his parents left him with a babysitter and took part in the armored car robbery.

Gilbert's supporters, including his son, San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin (pictured) - lobbied to have Gilbert join other defendants in the case who have been released from prison

Kathy Boudin avoided a harsher sentence by pleading guilty and was paroled in 2003.

Another Weather Underground member involved in the robbery, Judith Clark was granted parole in 2019, three years after Cuomo commuted her sentence. She had been denied parole after her first hearing two years earlier.

That prospect angered some local officials in the Hudson Valley and family members who said his release would insult the memory of the slain men.

In a statement, Rockland County Executive Ed Day called the decision a 'cruel and unjust slap in the face to the families' of those killed.

In the tweet, Cuomo disclosed the names, ages, and convictions of the sic men he granted commutations and pardons to

Victims: Police officers Waverly L. Brown (left) and Edward O'Grady (right) were two of the victims killed in a shootout during the robbery

Brink's security guard Peter Paige, a father, was also killed during the heist

'Former Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Parole Board should be ashamed for allowing this domestic terrorist to walk free on our streets,' Day said.

'Theres no reason that David Gilbert should not have to face the full consequences of his heinous crimes, no matter how much time has passed.'

Gilbert and other former members of the Weather Underground, a militant group that grew out of the anti-Vietnam War movement, had joined with members of the Black Liberation Army in the October 20, 1981, robbery.

They stole $1.6 million in cash from an armored car outside the Nanuet Mall near the Hudson River community of Nyack.

Brinks guard Peter Paige and two Nyack police officers, Sergeant Edward OGrady and Officer Waverly Brown, were killed in the holdup and ensuing shootout at a nearby roadblock.

Though unarmed, Gilbert was charged with robbery and murder, since people were killed during the crime. Also charged was Chesa Boudins mother, Kathy Boudin. The boy was 14 months old when his parents were imprisoned.

They didn't fire shots that day and the victims were killed by the Black Liberation Army.

In a sometimes raucous trial, Gilbert and two other defendants cast themselves as freedom fighters and deemed the proceedings illegitimate. At one court session, Gilbert and Clark raised their fists and shouted 'Free the land!'

In this May 1985 photo provided by Chesa Boudin, his father, David Gilbert, makes fists as his father holds him during a prison visit at Auburn Correctional Facility in Auburn

David Gilbert was not eligible for parole until 2056 before former Governor Andrew Cuomo (pictured) commuted his sentence, along with those of Greg Mingo, 68, Robert Ehrenberg, 62, Ulysses Boyd, 66, and Paul Clark, 59

Gilbert was not eligible for parole until 2056 before Cuomo commuted his sentence, along with those of Greg Mingo, 68, Robert Ehrenberg, 62, Ulysses Boyd, 66, and Paul Clark, 59.

The former governor said Gilbert made significant contributions to AIDS education and prevention programs, and worked as a tutor, law library clerk, paralegal assistant, teachers aide and aide in various prison programs.

Boudin was raised by his parents Weather Underground compatriots, Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn.

He ran a progressive campaign for San Francisco district attorney in 2019 in which he said visiting his parents in prison showed him the criminal justice system was broken.
A former U.S. Embassy employee who sexually assaulted at least 24 women over 14 years while filming the attacks was in the Central Intelligence Agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigations revealed Monday as it urged any other victims to come forward.

Brian Jeffrey Raymond, 45, of La Mesa, California, faces life in prison after admitting in July to federal sexual abuse and transportation of obscene material charges. He did so after being caught while stationed at the US Embassy in Mexico City, according to the Department of Justice.

The pervert was stationed there between 2018 and his abrupt departure in May 2020. Raymond's attacks began in 2006, and investigators have yet to say where the other abuse took place.

The FBI stated that Raymond worked for many years in the CIA, but did not indicate when he worked there, for how long and at what capacity. However, a source familiar with the case told The Daily Beast that the CIA took administrative action after Raymonds arrest, and that he resigned from his position soon after.

An investigation of Raymonds electronic devices showed that, between an unspecified month in 2006 and May 2020, he took hundreds of photos and videos of at least 24 unconscious and nude or partially nude women. In a number of the photos, Raymond is seen touching the victims breasts, genitalia and buttocks.

Brian Jeffrey Raymond, 45, of La Mesa, California, was working for the CIA while he sexually assaulted at least 24 women over 14 years and took photos and video of it. He pleaded guilty in July

The FBI stated that Raymond worked for many years in the CIA, but did not indicate when he worked there, for how long and at what capacity

The agency urged other victims to come forward as not all the women in the photos/videos have been identified

Almost all of the women seen in the photos and videos experienced memory loss during their time with Raymond and had no knowledge that he was taking photos, recording and touching them, according to the FBI. They have yet to comment on whether those women are suspected to have been drugged.

Raymond will be sentenced in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., on February 7, 2022, following a pre-sentencing evidentiary hearing that starts on January 31, 2022.

Some of the women depicted in the photographs and videos have yet to be identified and the FBI stated that it is seeking any other potential victims prior to come forward prior to Raymonds sentencing.

A statement from the organization reads, If you believe you have been a victim of Brian Jeffrey Raymond, or if you have information about Raymond, the FBI requests that you fill out a secure questionnaire, available at fbi.gov/BrianJeffreyRaymond. You can also contact the FBI via email at ReportingBJR@fbi.gov or by phone at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

An investigation into Raymond was launched last May, after a nude woman was screen screaming for help from the balcony of his Mexico City apartment.

The woman told the FBI she had no recollection of events after consuming drinks and food provided by Raymond.

Raymond will be sentenced in the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., on February 7, 2022, following a pre-sentencing evidentiary hearing that starts on January 31, 2022

Raymond worked with the U.S. Embassy in Mexico (pictured above) starting in August 2018 before abruptly quitting in May 2020 and moving in with his parents in La Mesa, California

Raymond's apartment was in Mexico Citys Polanco neighborhood. It is one of the richest areas of Mexico City, a main hub for finance and high-end commerce

Raymond worked with the U.S. Embassy starting in August 2018 before abruptly quitting in May 2020 and moving in with his parents in La Mesa, California.

It is unclear what prompted the sudden departure, and whether it was linked to the probe into his abuse.

He was arrested there last October, on one count of coercion and enticement.

'Brian Raymond betrayed the trust granted to him as a U.S. government employee representing the United States abroad by engaging in years of predatory conduct sexually abusing, exploiting, and recording vulnerable women he targeted in the United States and around the world,' Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department's Criminal Division, said in a statement.

'As demonstrated by Raymond's prosecution and plea, the Department of Justice and its law enforcement partners will use all of the tools at our disposal to hold accountable those who victimize women.'

In addition to the trove of photos and videos on Raymond's devices, FBI agents said his internet history recovered revealed searches for unconscious women and side effects of prescription drugs combined with alcohol.

In his plea agreement, Raymond admitted he engaged in sexual intercourse with two of the victims depicted in the recordings 'when both were incapable of appraising the nature of the conduct or consenting to it.'

Both incidents took place in Raymonds embassy-leased residence in Mexico City.

Raymond admitted that over the course of 14 years, he recorded and/or photographed at least 24 unconscious and nude or partially nude women, and touched the breasts, buttocks, genitalia of numerous women 'while they were incapable of consent.'

The DOJ said Raymond transported all 479 photographs and videos of 20 unconscious and nude or partially nude women, into the United States.

Raymond has worked for the U.S. government for 23 years in numerous countries, according to court documents. Prosecutors did not specify what position he held in Mexico other than to say he was working for a U.S. government agency at the embassy.

This is not the first incident in which the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City has come under fire. In 2014, an unidentified married Treasury attache was fired after an investigation found he forced a 22-year-old woman to perform oral sex at a New Years Eve party at his taxpayer-funded apartment

This isn't the first incident the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City has come under fire.

In 2014, an unidentified married Treasury attache was fired after an investigation found he forced a 22-year-old woman to perform oral sex at a New Years Eve party at his taxpayer-funded apartment.

However, his name has been redacted in all documents and his name has never been released, despite constant requests and the Biden administrations pledge for more transparency.

His case resurfaced in March after Raymond was arrested.

In December, 2017, it was revealed that The Treasury Department paid $174,000 over five years to settle sexual harassment cases, many involving members of Congress.

It is not known if officials in the Treasury paid anything to settle sexual harassment claims involving its own staff.

This also isnt the first time a government department has protected the identity of a high-ranking overseas official accused of misconduct while stationed abroad.

In January 2016, DailyMail.com uncovered that a US consulate employee had a child taken from his care because officials feared the minor was in danger following systematic abuse and neglect.

A document exposed how the International Trade Administration staff member allegedly subjected the minor to shocking care while working abroad and living in a house owned by the government

An investigation found the child was routinely underfed and encouraged to take their clothes off in the consulate residence so the man could allegedly take pictures of them naked.

At the time the unidentified employee also allegedly harassed female colleagues during his posting and used a government email address to meet women online.
Facebook boss Mark Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla Chan have been sued over alleged racist and homophobic abuse inflicted on two staffers by their former household security boss, which is said to have included a dig at Meghan Markle.

Mia King, a black LGBR woman who served as a security operations assistant, and a John Doe, a gay and disabled man who worked as a household operations manager, claimed they were subject to racist and homophobic abuse by the billionaire couple's former head of security Liam Booth, Business Insider reports.

In their twin lawsuit, filed in San Francisco County, King said Booth would often call her 'ghetto' and complain that Meghan Markle, who is bi-racial, 'polluted the royal blood line' following her marriage to Prince Harry.

Doe also claimed that Booth, a former Secret Service agent whose race has not been disclosed, allegedly made constant comments about his homosexuality and slapped his groin at a sushi restaurant in 2018.

Pictured, Mark Zuckerberg and Priscilla Chan with their family

The couple run a home office operation through their California estate, pictured. Employees have alleged that a pattern of discriminatory behavior took place at the home office

Former head of security Liam Booth allegedly made a slew of racist remarks against black people, and directed such comments at Meghan Mark, wife of Prince Harry, pictured above

Other employees had previously witnessed Booth groping Doe's butt in Zuckerberg's Montana property that same year and imitating 'lewd sex acts' in front him, the lawsuit states. Zuckernberg and Chan's main property sits in the Bay Area, but they also own homes in Hawaii and Montana.

Booth, a former Secret Service agent who once served in President Barack Obama's personal protection detail, resigned from Zuckerberg's family office in 2019 following a probe into the complaints when Business Insider first reported them.

Zuckerberg and Chan have refuted these claims, and their personal spokesperson, Ben LaBolt, said in a statement that the company's internal investigation found no evidence of wrongdoing.

'As we previously stated when these claims were anonymously leaked to the media over two years ago, our family office follows a strict code of conduct that requires appropriate behavior from all members of our teams. It is our expectation that each of our employees adheres to this code of conduct,' LaBolt said.

'Any complaint made to our HR personnel is taken seriously and is investigated and addressed. We are proud of the team of professionals who work in the family office and are confident that these claims, which seek to unfairly disparage our colleagues, will fail.'

Booth has yet to make a statement regarding the allegations in the three years since they first surfaced.

Also named in the suit are Doe's boss Brian Mosteller, and Monica Moorhouse, an ex-human resources employee for the family office.

They could not immediately be reached by DailyMail.com late on Tuesday.

Booth allegedly poked fun at Chan, an Asian woman. The Zuckerberg and Chan, pictured in 2020, have denied that such behavior took place in their family office

Booth's alleged behaviors have been previously reported when they first came to light in 2019, with the former employees detailing the shocking behavior, according to Business Insider.

In one, a former senior manager of executive protection alleged that Booth told him Black Lives Matter movement was a 'terrorist organization,' and described a King as a 'ghetto b***h,' a 'hoodrat,' and a 'c**t.'

In another declaration, a female security worker said that Booth 'stated that he was "tired of all the Black Lives Matter bulls**t,"' and that he 'often used the word "n*****" to label African Americans.'

Additionally, she alleged that Booth disparaged Chan, who is Asian, calling her 'a bad driver while deliberately making his eyes narrower.'

Doe also alleges that his direct boss, Brian Mosteller, did not make accommodations for his disability, which includes epilepsy.

Doe claims that in 2019, he emailed Zuckerberg and Chan directly about the problem, but he never received a response.

Along with these allegations, the plaintiffs claim they were not given the legal amount of break or paid overtime hours they were due, in violation of A Fair Day's Pay Act.

Booth is just one of several of Zuckerberg's personal aides to have been accused of misconduct.

In 2017, a female household employee accused Zuckerberg's Hawaii ranch manager Shawn Smith of assault when he was drunk. The woman was taken to the hosptial for a head injury, but no charges were filed.

Smith has denied the allegations and continues to work under Zuckerberg.

And in 2018, another female worker claimed that she was sexually harassed by medical staffer Jaeson Rosa.
Spanish bars could run out of whisky, gin, vodka and rum due to international transport issues, industry leaders have warned.

The Mediterranean country is experiencing a supply shortage of spirits amid rising transport costs as well as costs of raw materials such as glass and cardboard, according to local media.

Hundreds of bars, pubs and nightclubs in Spain, a holiday favourite for Brits during the summer, are said to already be reporting shortages after Covid restrictions on the hospitality sector were eased.

Spanish bars could run out of whisky, gin, vodka and rum due to international transport issues, industry leaders have warned (stock image)

The problem also affects the export sales of Spanish spirits manufacturers, who ship 40 per cent of their production abroad. However, supplies of wine and beer are not expected to be disrupted.

Bosco Torremocha, the executive director of the Spanish Spirits Association, admitted: 'We do not foresee to recover the sales levels of 2019 until the end of next year or the beginning of 2023.'

Asked about his forecast for the Christmas season, he added: 'I cannot think about the campaign for the end of the year.

The Mediterranean country is experiencing a supply shortage of spirits amid rising transport costs as well as costs of raw materials such as glass and cardboard, according to local media (stock image)

'As a representative of the sector I am focused right now on tomorrow, on how to solve this crisis as soon as possible.'

It follows a coalition of unions that represent shipping workers around the world warning of an imminent 'global transport systems collapse' due to lingering impacts from the Covid pandemic.

In an open letter in September, the workers groups warned that fragmented and inconsistent pandemic restrictions around the world have thrown global shipping into chaos.
The Pentagon admitted Tuesday that as many as 450 Americans are still in Afghanistan, more than the Biden administration has previously let on.

Following the US' frenzied withdrawal from Kabul, the State Department said in late September that there were less than 100 Americans still in Afghanistan who were looking to flee.

But last week the State Department said it was in contact with 363 Americans in Afghanistan, and has already withdrawn 234 since the US military's exit.

Colin H. Kahl, the undersecretary of defense for policy, added to that number, telling the Senate Armed Services Committee that the State Department is 'in contact with 196 American citizens who are ready to depart, and arrangements are being made for them to do so either via air or over ground. And another 243 American citizens have been contacted and are not ready to depart  either because they want to stay in Afghanistan or aren't ready.

That total, 439, adds 76 to the tally.

At a briefing Tuesday, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said that the number of Americans stranded in Afghanistan had at one point been below 100, but now was back up to between 100 and 200 based on fluctuation on the ground.

Meanwhile, U.S. intelligence agencies believe the Islamic State in Afghanistan could develop the capability to attack the United States in as little as six months, according to Kahl. The stark warning is the latest reminder of the danger that remains after U.S. troops left the country at the end of August and the Taliban retook control.

Kahl said the U.S. had to remain vigilant against the threat from Al Qaeda and from the Islamic State's Afghanistan offshoot known as ISIS-K.

'I think the intelligence community currently assesses that both ISIS-K and Al Qaeda have the intent to conduct external operations, including against the United States, but neither currently has the capability to do so,' he told members of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

'We could see ISIS-K generate that capability in somewhere between six or 12 months.

'I think the current assessments by the intelligence community as Al Qaeda would take a year or two to reconstitute that capability.'

Under Secretary of Defense Colin Kahl said the U.S. had to remain vigilant against the threat from Al Qaeda and from the Islamic State's Afghanistan offshoot known as ISIS-K

An Afghan security personnel holds the Islamic State group's flag after an attack in the city of Jalalabad, east of Kabul, Afghanistan, Monday, Aug. 3, 2020. An Islamic State group attack on the prison in eastern Afghanistan holding hundreds of its members raged on Monday after killing people in fighting overnight, a local official said

His words will will trigger fresh criticism of the rapid end of America's 20-year war, an end that triggered chaotic scenes at Kabul airport and the deaths of 13 U.S. personnel in an ISIS-K suicide attack.

President Biden has seen his standing at home take a battering, with plunging opinion polls, and his reputation overseas weakened among allies who said they were blindsided.

Kahl's comments echo those of Gen. Mark Milley, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, who offered a similar six-month time frame recently.

Biden has promised an 'over-the-horizon' counterterrorism capability, using drone strikes to limit terrorist threats to the U.S.

But officials have also said they expect the Taliban to make good on promises they have made to prevent Afghanistan becoming a haven for terrorists - much to the skepticism of many Afghan observers.

In his assessment, Kahl it was unclear whether the Taliban has the ability to keep ISIS-K from developing into a bigger threat.

'It is our assessment that the Taliban and ISIS-K are mortal enemies,' he said.

'So the Taliban is highly motivated to go after ISIS-K.

Their ability to do so, I think, is to be determined.'

But he also had reassuring words for the committee, saying that the threat to the American homeland was at its lowest level since Sept. 11, 2001.

Republican Sen. Joni Ernst scoffed at that assessment.

'It doesnt sound like a low risk when you have just told us that the possibility of an attack from ISIS-K on our homeland could come six to 12 months from now,' she said.

However, Kahl and Lt. Gen. James Mingus, director for operations for the Joint Staff, who was also giving evidence said the timelines did not take account of operations to degrade ISIS-K and Al Qaeda capabilities.

Opening proceedings, committee chairman Sen. Jack Reed outlined the need for vigilance.

'While the United States has ended its military mission in Afghanistan, we must continue to ensure that al Qaeda, ISIS-K, and other terrorist groups cannot use Afghanistan to attack the United States and our allies,' he said.

'We must remain vigilant about these threats and ensure that we establish an effective and robust counterterrorism architecture moving forward.'
Queensland's two new mystery Covid cases include an unvaccinated 17-year-old boy linked to a growing Indigenous family cluster.

Health officials have recorded two new locally-acquired cases on the Gold Coast, while a truck driver who lives in Gympie has tested positive interstate.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the two local cases emerged after 8,779 tests in the 24 hours to 6.30am on Tuesday.

The unvaccinated teenager - whose Tweed Heads family is believed to have been diagnosed with 'multiple' cases of the virus - tested positive after presenting at an emergency department on the Gold Coast with a headache.

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Two new locally-acquired Covid cases were recorded on the Gold Coast on Tuesday. Pictured are pedestrians wearing face masks in Brisbane

He is a household contact of a woman who recently travelled to Queensland from NSW, with police investigating how she entered the state.

The boy is from a large Indigenous family and was admitted to Gold Coast University Hospital after testing positive to the virus at Robina Hospital, The Courier-Mail reported.

NSW Health said one of its residents had visited family on the Gold Coast before returning a positive result.

The second case is a woman in her 30s who was in home quarantine after travelling from Melbourne.

Ms Palaszczuk said a Gympie truck driver also tested positive in NSW after being in Bundaberg and Caboolture while infectious.

'Today's cases show Queensland is not immune to the pandemic,' Ms Palaszczuk told parliament on Tuesday.

'We have contained dozens of outbreaks but, as NSW, Victoria, the ACT and New Zealand have discovered... it only takes one case to cause a massive outbreak. Our only protection is to get vaccinated.'

Queensland Health has listed Fresh Fields FoodWorks Thabeban in Bundaberg and the male toilets at Caboolture South Travel Centre as exposure sites for Saturday evening.

Queensland Health has listed Fresh Fields FoodWorks Thabeban in Bundaberg as a Covid exposure site

Meanwhile, Queensland's vaccine co-ordinator has warned regional centres and Indigenous communities will face COVID-19 restrictions if they do not reach an 80 per cent vaccination rate by the time the borders reopen.

The state will scrap quarantine requirements for fully vaccinated travellers who test negative when 80 per cent of eligible Queenslanders have had both doses of a COVID-19 vaccine, or by December 17 at the latest.

Commonwealth figures on Monday showed 75.2 per cent of eligible Queenslanders had received one dose of a vaccine and 60.7 per cent were fully vaccinated.

Queensland Deputy Police Commissioner and Vaccine Co-ordinator Shane Chelepy believes the state will hit the 80 per cent target by December 17, but says some areas are struggling to get there.

Commonwealth vaccination figures show that only 31.7 per cent of eligible residents in the Isaac Region in central Queensland have been fully vaccinated, while 48.2 per cent have had one dose.

Pictured: Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk. She said a Gympie truck driver tested positive in NSW after being in Bundaberg and Caboolture while infectious

In the Indigenous community of Cherbourg, in the southeast, 25.7 per cent of residents are fully vaccinated and 33.7 per cent have had one jab.

Mr Chelepy warned individual local government areas will face future COVID-19 restrictions, including lockdowns, if they do not get to 80 per cent before the Queensland borders open.

'The premier and the chief health officer has been clear on this - the areas that don't reach 80 per cent, if we have an outbreak in those areas, restrictions will need to be applied,' he said.

The state is planning to scrap quarantine for international arrivals when 90 per cent of residents are fully vaccinated, but it has unveiled a plan to bring international students back before first term in 2022.

Under the plan up to 250 students will be able to fly in and quarantine at a facility being built by the state at Wellcamp, near Toowoomba.

Students studying medical research and allied health degrees will be prioritised, so they can potentially back up the state's health system after it reopens the borders.
Fully vaccinated Australians will no longer need to apply for an exemption to leave the country after officials last night approved unrestricted international travel.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt gave the green light for travellers who have received both jabs to fly out from next Monday, November 1.

It comes as a quarantine-free bubble with Singapore is approved.

Aussies will be allowed to enter Singapore without having to quarantine from November 8 with travellers required to return a negative PCR test 48 hours before arrival.

Once landed travellers will need to undergo another test and isolate until given a negative result.

Children under 12-years-old don't need to be vaccinated and those under the age of two will not be required to get tested.

Fully vaccinated Australians will no longer need to apply for an exemption to leave the country as a quarantine-free bubble with Singapore (pictured) is approved

The new changes to international travel mean Aussies can come and go without having to apply for an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs.

The travel ban was enforced in March last year when the outbreak of the pandemic first peaked.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed the change on Sunrise on Wednesday morning, as major airlines ramp up flights overseas.

'Over half a million Australians have already been able to download the international vaccination certificate,' he said.

'We are getting very close now to a reciprocal arrangement with Singapore.

'The national plan is working. The national plan is about opening Australia up and that is because the vaccination rates are climbing so high.'

A quarantine-free bubble between Australia and Indonesia is now reportedly also in the works.

Tourism Minister Dan Tehan has confirmed officials were in talks about re-opening travel between the two nations as Covid cases continue to fall in the south-east Asian country.

Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt gave the green light for travellers who have received both jabs to fly out from next Monday, November 1

'The Covid situation on the ground in Bali is continuing to improve,' he said during a question-and-answer discussion with Newscorp on Monday.

'It's obviously an incredibly popular destination for Australians in particular, and tourism is such a huge part of the Balinese economy so we will continue to have discussions.'

Mr Tehan said travel agreements with Japan and South Korea were also actively being considered by the Australian government.

'We're going to put something in place for Singaporeans in the next couple of weeks and my hope would be we could then look at Japan, South Korea and Bali as the next step in that direction,' he said.

'I think there's a real pent-up demand for people to travel again.'

Major airlines like Jetstar and Qantas have jumped on the lifting of travel exemptions, offering cheap flights to holiday destinations like Hawaii, Japan, Singapore, Bali, New Zealand, Fiji and Thailand.

As part of Jetstar's 2022 International sale, Aussies can fly from Sydney to Honolulu one way from just $258 between next April and May.

Business flights from Sydney to Phuket start at just $499 for travel between January and March.

Flights to Queenstown start from $189 and airfares to Tokyo start at an affordable $288.

Travellers wanting to escape to Fiji can do so for as much as $199 for one-way flights while tickets to Bali start at $159.

A quarantine-free bubble between Australia and Indonesia (Bali pictured) is now reportedly also in the works

Meanwhile, Australia is expected to allow quarantine-free travel for fully vaccinated international arrivals into at least four states before Christmas.

South Australia will scrap isolation requirements for overseas and domestic travellers with two jabs when the state reaches 90 per cent immunisation coverage.

Premier Steven Marshall expects the milestone to be reached before Christmas, weeks after state borders open on November 23.

Victoria and NSW will permit double-jabbed overseas arrivals to enter Melbourne and Sydney without having to isolate from Monday.

Tasmania has set December 15 as the date it will throw open borders to international and domestic travellers.

All travellers will be required to test negative for Covid.

The SA government's announcement further isolates Western Australia, which is likely to remain shut to countries, states and territories with the virus until next year.

The massive backlog of returning Australians will be the first to benefit from the new international travel arrangements before migrant workers, international students and tourists.

Australia is on track for one of the world's highest vaccination rates, with more than 74 per cent of over-16s now fully vaccinated.

In excess of 87 per cent have received at least one dose.

The vaccine rollout - plagued by delays for months - is expected to soon include booster shots for the general public.

Major airlines have ramped up flights to holiday destinations around the globe including Tokyo

The Therapeutic Goods Administration and Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation met with Mr Hunt on Monday.

He said a decision on third jabs for the wider population was imminent.

'Over the next coming days, I expect to receive the final advice of the TGA on the booster program,' he told parliament on Tuesday.

'As we go forward, we continue to save lives and protect lives.'

People with severely compromised immune systems are eligible for top-up vaccines.

Aged care residents and older Australians are likely to be next to receive third shots when the booster program expands.

All states and territories have passed the 60 per cent two-dose coverage, with WA the last state to reach the mark.

Case numbers rose slightly in Victoria with 1510 new infections and four deaths reported on Tuesday.

There was a slight drop in NSW cases with 282 recorded, along with another death, while Canberra detected 12 new cases.

Queensland registered two new local cases - a teenage boy who was a close contact of a person that travelled from NSW, and a woman in home quarantine after being in Melbourne.
A man who was arrested for using a 100 commemorative coin to pay for his fuel at a Tesco Extra has been awarded 5,000 in damages by police.

Brett Chamberlain, 54, who works as a carpenter, filled up his car with 60 worth of diesel at a Tesco Extra in Exeter in July last year and was refused by staff, who would not accept his payment.

He used a 2016 Trafalgar Square special edition 100 coin, which had just 45,000 minted, to pay for his fuel and are legal tender under the 1971 Coinage Act.

The dad-of-four, who lives in Tiverton, Devon, was arrested on suspicion of 'making off without payment' after the manager called authorities.

He was later interrogated by police at Exeter Police station for four hours.

Brett Chamberlain, 54 (Pictured), attempted to pay for 60 worth of Diesel at a Tesco Extra in Exeter using 100 coin back in July last year

He used a Trafalgar Square special edition which is legal tender under a 1971 Act and launched legal action. He laster received 5,000 compensation from police

Mr Chamberlain, who collects coins, was released under investigation and sent a letter by the Devon and Cornwall Police saying he would not be charged.

'They wanted to prosecute me for using Royal Mint coins. You couldn't make it up.

'I always use the coins to buy my fuel. Morrisons, Asda and Sainsbury's have taken them but Tesco are always difficult', he told the Sun.

Mr Chamberlain took legal action after failing to receive an adequate apology or an assurance the incident would be removed from the police national computer.

He has now received notice of the 5,000 compensation.

A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said: We have taken steps to recognise and rectify the issues raised.

In the UK, a person cannot be sued for a debt if they have attempted to pay with legal tender.

In England and Wales, 5, 10, 20 and 50 notes are all legal tender for payment of any amount. This is not the case in Scotland or Northern Ireland.

But Royal Mint coins of any amount are legal tender throughout the UK, meaning a court would see them as an acceptable method of payment, although a shop doesn't have to accept them.
Supermarkets will be short of home-produced fresh turkeys this Christmas with stores turning to imports from France and Poland, MPs have been told.

Industry leaders say it is evidence of a wider crisis across the food supply chain caused by a chronic lack of workers.

UK farmers decided to raise fewer chicks this year because they could see there would not be enough staff in processing plants to handle them.

In evidence to an inquiry by MPs on the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee, chairman of the British Poultry Council, Graeme Dear, said there was a likelihood there will be a shortage of UK turkeys for Christmas.

Around 20 per cent fewer birds have been reared this year on British farms.

Industry leaders have said there is a 'likelihood' there will be a shortage of UK turkeys for Christmas this year

The Government recently announced it would allow in 5,500 poultry plant workers on short-term visas, however this came too late to boost the number of turkeys being raised.

Mr Dear said: The irony is we may find ourselves having to import turkey from France and Poland for a British Christmas, probably with some of the very workers we trained and left to go back to their homelands.

Industry leaders said a combination of Brexit and strict immigration controls, plus coronavirus, where many foreign workers chose to go home, have triggered the crisis.

Tom Bradshaw, of the National Farmers Union, said the organisation has been involved in constant battles with the Home Office over the need to allow in more foreign workers.

A seasonal workers scheme allows in some 30,000 foreign workers to help bring in the UK harvest, however the NFU says this needs to be raised to 50,000-60,000.

Mr Bradshaw said: The food waste we are seeing at a farm levelis completely inexcusable.
Premier Mark McGowan has warned NSW and Victorian residents they could be locked out of the state until June 2022.

Western Australia has officially become the last jurisdiction to announce clear reopening plans and will remain closed to everyone from NSW and Victoria for Christmas.

Only those from Queensland, NT and Tasmania will be able to go to Western Australia.

Additionally, the premier on Tuesday indicated he will only remove current border restrictions for NSW and Victoria in the first six months of 2022.

'We'll get to a reunion with people in NSW and Victoria sometime in the first half of next year,' Mr McGowan said.

Premier Mark McGowan has warned NSW and Victoria residents could remain locked out of his state until halfway through next year (pictured, a couple walk along Cottesloe Beach in Perth)

The premier on Tuesday indicated he will only remove border restrictions with NSW and Victoria sometime in the first six months of 2022 (pictured, a woman at Perth Airport)

'I know this will be a huge relief for so many South Australians who are wanting to get back to normality as soon as possible,' Premier Steven Marshall (pictured) said of his reopening plan

'I'm one of those people. I'm seeing my parents again sometime in the first half of next year.'

The premier said residents owed it to themselves, their families and small businesses who yearned for a 'relatively normal' Christmas to keep the current rules in place.

He said this would avoid having to enforce restrictions currently in place in NSW, Victoria, Tasmania, Queensland and South Australia.

Western Australia and Northern Territory will be the only no-go zones in Australia this Christmas as the rest of the country finally comes out of Covid isolation.

South Australia became the latest state to confirm a date to throw open its doors to visitors again, with vaccinated travellers welcome from November 23.

It means a happy Christmas is ahead with summer holidays and overdue interstate family reunions for visitors from NSW, Victoria, and ACT.

In contrast, Mr McGowan has repeatedly refused to give a concrete date for when the state will reopen after 80 and 90 per cent of the population is fully vaccinated.

Western Australia and the Northern Territory will be the only no go zones in Australia as families reunite this Christmas (stock image)

Premier Mark McGowan (pictured) has said residents will get a reunion with NSW and Victoria 'sometime in the first half of next year'

'The thing about their model is they're putting in place all sorts of restrictions so they've got density limits on cafes, restaurants, bars,' Mr McGowan said of South Australia's reopening plans.

'They've got seating requirements if you want to go and have a drink, they've got restrictions on fitness classes, they've got mask wearing at a whole range of venues and all that will be in place over Christmas and the school holidays.

WHERE CAN YOU GO IN AUSTRALIA THIS CHRISTMAS? ACT (88.9 per cent double-dosed): Re-opens to NSW from November 1, Victorian travellers still face quarantine for the moment NORTHERN TERRITORY (61.69 per cent): Vaccinated travellers could be allowed in from January 18 NSW (85.47 per cent): Quarantine-free arrivals for vaccinated visitors from November 1 QUEENSLAND (61.22 per cent): The state plans to be open to all vaccinated travellers from December 17 SOUTH AUSTRALIA (63.13 per cent): Inoculated visitors will be welcome from November 23 TASMANIA (72.59 per cent): All vaccinated and negative testing travellers will be welcome without quarantine from December 15 VICTORIA (75.88 per cent): Quarantine-free arrivals for vaccinated visitors from November 1 WESTERN AUSTRALIA (60.19 per cent): No quarantine-free travellers until the 'first half of next year', and not before the end of the school holidays Advertisement

'So that will be a massive burden on small businesses and it will impact Christmas in South Australia.'

The premier indicated he was 'pretty keen' to avoid enforcing Covid-19 restrictions on residents and businesses over the Christmas period.

'I just want you all to understand - you imagine Christmas, where you have limits on the number of people who can go to someone's home, limits on the number of people who can have a picnic in public, restrictions on cafes, restaurants, pubs, bars, restrictions on tourism venues, mask wearing requirements indoors, you imagine that?' he said.

'That's what South Australia, Queensland and Tasmania are all choosing.

'I'd prefer to avoid that.'

The premier cited the desires of 'lot's of business groups' who wanted his government to keep the current restrictions in place.

He didn't rule out reimposing border restrictions with South Australia, Queensland and Tasmania as they reopen their doors to Victoria and NSW.

'We'll see what happens with community spread,' he said.

Western Australia is miles behind the rest of the country in their vaccine rollout with just 60 per cent of people inoculated against Covid.

He said the state's vaccination program - the slowest in Australia - would ramp-up over the festive period with the aim to 'get as many people vaccinated as we can' before potential cases from NSW and Victoria crept into WA.

WA remains open to travellers from SA, Tasmania, and the NT, while Queenslanders will no longer need to quarantine from Wednesday.

Mr McGowan last week outlined mandatory vaccination requirements for most of the state's workforce, including a January 31 deadline which would coincide with the end of the school holidays and ahead of a potential reopening of borders.
Felony theft charges against a homeless Pennsylvania man who underpaid for a bottle of Mountain Dew by 43 cents have been dropped.

Prosecutors in Perry County dropped the theft charge this month against Joseph Sobolewski, 38, and downgraded another charge.

In August, Sobolewski reportedly went into an Exxon at 3298 Susquehanna Trail in Duncannon and saw a sign advertising two 20-ounce Mountain Dew bottles for $3.

Joseph Sobolewski, 38, was held in the Dauphin County prison for seven days before his public defender successfully argued for his release

Sobolewski reportedly went into this Exxon at 3298 Susquehanna Trail in Duncannon and saw a sign advertising two 20-ounce Mountain Dew bottles for $3. He paid $2 for one bottle, not realizing the discount did not apply to a single bottle. The bottle cost $2.29, so including tax, he owed the store 43 cents

He took one bottle, slapped $2 on the counter for what he thought was a $1.50 soda, and walked out, not realizing the discount did not apply to a single bottle.

The bottle cost $2.29, so including tax, he owed the store 43 cents.

The store employee told Sobolewsky he had not paid the full value of the soda, but he drove away, court documents say.

She then called state police, who found and arrested Sobolewski on a felony charge. A judge ordered him held on a $50,000 cash-only bond.

He was held in the Dauphin County prison for seven days before his public defender successfully argued for his release.

Sobolewski had started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to fight the legal charges.

'My wife and I are currently homeless. My wife is a diabetic. I take any and all odd jobs that come my way,' he said.

'My wife and I are currently homeless. My wife is a diabetic. I take any and all odd jobs that come my way,' Sobolewski (pictured with his wife) said

Sobolewski had started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds to fight the legal charges

Sobolewski had twice in the past 10 years been charged with theft, once for not paying for a tank of gas and another time for stealing a $39.99 pair of shoes from a K-Mart in Cumberland County

'I am overwhelmed at the support I have received from so many all over the country,' he added.

Sobolewski had twice in the past 10 years been charged with theft, once for not paying for a tank of gas and another time for stealing a $39.99 pair of shoes from a K-Mart in Cumberland County.

For stealing the shoes, Sobolewsky paid over $800 in fines and was sentenced to three months in jail for a probation violation, Pennlive reported.

Under Pennsylvania's three-strikes law, a third theft charge must be a felony, regardless of the amount or value involved. Sobolewski faced up to seven years in prison.

Sobolewski told the Patriot-News it was 'great news' that the felony was being dismissed. 'I feel I was treated unequally because I had a record,' he said.

He had previously been charged with theft in Cumberland County earlier in the summer on suspicion of trying to take items from a Hobby Lobby with his wife.

For that charge, his bail was set at $2,000, and he is applying for a diversion program there.
Huma Abedin has claimed in her forthcoming memoir that she was sexually assaulted by an unnamed U.S. senator.

The longtime Hillary Clinton aide and estranged wife of former congressman and convicted sex offender Anthony Weiner wrote in her new book Both/And: A Life in Many Worlds, out next week, that she was able to put the incident out of her mind for years.

It was not until Christine Blasey Ford was testifying about her alleged assault by Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh in 2018 that the memory resurfaced.

Abedin did not name the senator or his political party. She wrote about a Washington dinner, sometime after Donald Trump's wedding to Melania in 2005, before she was with Weiner. She and Weiner married in July 2010.

Later, in 2011, Weiner confessed to accidentally posting a crotch picture in his grey boxers on Twitter after convincing her for a week that it was 'the work of a hacker,' and Abedin was 'filled with rage' and 'stunned to the core,' she also wrote in her book.

Abedin wrote that she attended the 2005 dinner without Clinton, then-senator from New York, with 'a few senators and their aides,' according to a copy of the book obtained by The Guardian.

Huma Abedin is seen with Hillary Clinton in May 2005 - around the time that she was sexually assaulted by a senator

Abedin is pictured with Clinton in 2008, while she was still a senator for New York

Abedin, pictured in April 2016 with Clinton on the presidential campaign trail, has written a new book. In it, she reveals she was sexually assaulted by a senator

'I ended up walking out with one of the senators, and soon we stopped in front of his building and he invited me in for coffee. Once inside, he told me to make myself comfortable on the couch.'

She said the senator took off his blazer, rolled up his sleeves and made coffee before sitting beside her on the couch.

Abedin, born in Michigan to Indian and Pakistani parents, grew up in Saudi Arabia. Her book is titled Both/And: A Life in Many Worlds

'Then, in an instant, it all changed. He plopped down to my right, put his left arm around my shoulder, and kissed me, pushing his tongue into my mouth, pressing me back on the sofa.

'I was so utterly shocked, I pushed him away. All I wanted was for the last 10 seconds to be erased.'

She said that the senator seemed shocked but apologized and said he had 'misread' their relationship.

Abedin said she then plotted how to leave 'without this ending badly,' as the senator asked her if she wanted to stay.

'Then I said something only the twentysomething version of me would have come up with  'I am so sorry'  and walked out, trying to appear as nonchalant as possible.'

Abedin, now 45, said that she kept her distance from the senator 'for a few days,' but eventually ran into him on Capitol Hill.

He asked her at the time if they were still friends, and she nodded. She wrote that Clinton then came up to join them.

Huma Abedin attends the 2021 Met Gala on September 13

The Clinton aide said that the memory of the couch incident was suppressed until she read about Ford 'being accused of 'conveniently' remembering' her alleged assault.

Ford claimed Kavanaugh assaulted her at a gathering in high school, Kavanaugh claimed such an incident never happened and was still confirmed to the bench.

Abedin's estranged husband has had his own repeated sex scandals that led to his arrest. Weiner resigned within a few weeks of the Twitter scandal in 2011, later unsuccessfully running for New York City mayor twice, in 2005 and 2013.

In 2016, DailyMail.com also revealed that he had been sending lewd text messages to a 15-year-old girl that included more explicit photographs. Weiner, now 56, served 18 months in prison before being released from jail in 2019.

Abedin announced in 2016 that she planned to separate from him but the pair has yet to finalize their divorce.

Weiner and Abedin married back in 2010, in a star-studded ceremony at a Long Island mansion, officiated by President Bill Clinton, and during which Hillary Clinton called the bride the closest thing she had to a second daughter.

Abedin and Weiner are pictured in November 2015, at a fashion gala in New York City

Abedin and Weiner are seen in September 2017, in Manhattan Civil Court, for a hearing in their divorce case

Abedin and Weiner are seen together after doing the school run with their son Jordan in October 2019

But the couple's high-powered political union hit troubled waters the following year.

Weiner stepped down from his seat in New York's 9th congressional district in 2011, after he accidentally tweeted a crotch-shot of himself in his underwear to the public, on his official page.

Abedin writes in the book that she was 'filled with rage' and 'stunned to the core' when Weiner confessed to her in 2011 that he accidentally posted a crotch picture in his grey boxers on Twitter, after convincing her for a week that it was 'the work of a hacker.'

She was newly pregnant with their son at the time and was traveling frequently with Clinton, then Secretary of State.

Weiner accidentally posted the photograph on his feed instead of sending it as a direct message to a woman he'd been flirting with on Twitter.

Abedin and her husband Anthony Weiner in 2013, two years after the crotch picture scandal when he unsuccessfully ran for Mayor

This is the photo Weiner accidentally posted on Twitter. He intended to send it to a woman as a private message. The unedited version showed the outline of his penis

He first told Abedin that it was 'the work of a hacker,' which she believed, then after a week told her what had really happened.

'Whats wrong? I asked,' she wrote.

'And then, just like that, life as I knew it was officially over. Its true, he said. I sent the picture...

'I was simultaneously filled with rage and stunned to my core. It felt like a bolt of lightning had struck me and run straight through my body,' she wrote.

I was simultaneously filled with rage and stunned to my core. It felt like a bolt of lightning had struck me and run straight through my body

At the time, Weiner was a Democratic Congressman for New York. He resigned within a few weeks of the scandal, then ran unsuccessfully for New York City mayor twice, in 2005 and 2013.

In 2016, DailyMail.com revealed that he had been sending lewd text messages to a 15-year-old girl that included more explicit photographs.

He served 18 months in prison before being released from jail in 2019.

Abedin announced in 2016 that she planned to separate from him but the pair has yet to finalize their divorce.

In her memoir, Abedin told how she'd been traveling with Clinton and was staying at Buckingham Palace in the weeks before the crotch picture scandal erupted.

She had just discovered she was pregnant and wrote a letter to Weiner from the room where she was staying at the palace, saying: 'Dear Anthony  Is it possible for any two people to be happier or more blessed? Some days, I cannot believe it.

'We must remember to be grateful to God that He has given us so much. I love you. Huma Weiner, May 24, 2011.'

The investigation into Weiner's devices began when DailyMail.com revealed that the disgraced congressman had an online sexual relationship with a 15-year-old girl for months and sent her lewd messages and pictures

When the scandal exploded, Abedin said she was most upset when she learned The New York Times planned to report on her pregnancy.

She said she went into Clinton's office and sobbed.

'I wanted to tell you myself, was all I could get out before I burst into tears.

'She walked me over to the window seat, sat with me, rubbing my back, trying to reassure me, telling me over and over again that it was going to be okay. I was crying so loudly that her assistant Claire Coleman closed the door to the outer office...

'After I dont know how long, when I caught my breath, HRC asked, Do you still want to go on this trip?

I think its important for me to do my work, I said, blowing my nose.

I think it would be good for you to go, too, she said,' Abedin wrote.

Abedin stuck by Weiner. The pair is shown last year in New York City. She announced in 2016 that she planned to separate from him, but they have not finalized their divorce

Huma is still close with Clinton. They are shown in the Hamptons earlier this year

She went on the trip with Clinton and was stunned when she was told by a White House staffer that then-President Barack Obama wanted to talk to her.

'A phone call with the president of the United States to talk about my personal humiliation? It was more than I could bear. Please just tell him I am so sorry for embarrassing the administration.' Abedin wrote.

She said she 'didn't recognize' the man who sent the crotch tweet.

'I did not know that Anthony. The Anthony I knew was so many things, but not that.'

Once in 'the Emirates,' she went to her hotel room to find her mother and brother waiting. 'Hillary' had arranged for them to be there, she said.

'HRC and Cheryl joined us after a while, and the conversation turned toward the baby, my maternal health, and plans for the future. One where Anthonys place was uncertain,' she wrote.

Both/And: A Life in Many Worlds is due out November 2, 2021.

Do you know the senator who assaulted Huma Abedin? Email us at: newsUS@dailymail.com
Gladys Berejiklian's legal team is not happy the start of her evidence to a corruption inquiry has been delayed by 24 hours.

Sophie Callan, a barrister representing the former NSW premier, has become increasingly combative as the Independent Commission Against Corruption investigation entered its second week of testimony.

Ms Berejiklian was due to front the ICAC probe into her on Thursday, but this has been delayed to Friday due to 'investigative reasons'.

Ms Callan said she is seeking procedural fairness regarding the inquiry into whether or not Ms Berejiklian complied with a legal duty to report suspected corruption to the watchdog.

The former premier was in a secret relationship with disgraced Liberal MP Daryl Maguire between 2015 and 2018.

Former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian's (pictured on Wednesday morning) evidence to ICAC has been delayed by a day due to 'investigative reasons'

Section 11 of the ICAC Act states that a NSW government minister and other public officials have a duty to report any matter the person suspects on reasonable grounds concerns or may concern corrupt conduct.

Ms Callan said Ms Berejiklian's lawyers wrote to the ICAC asking for further information about this but had received a 'wholly unsatisfactory' response.

She said Ms Berejiklian was 'entitled to know what it is that is alleged in respect of section 11'.

In reply, ICAC counsel Scott Robertson said 'these proceedings are not a trial' and the correspondence contained a 'fundamental misapprehension' about ICAC's role, which is that it was seeking to find the truth and was not a prosecutorial body.

Sophie Callan, SC (pictured) is representing Gladys Berejiklian at the ICAC

Ms Callan added that the watchdog had received evidence from 'seven men' to date about whether Ms Berejiklian was in a position of conflict in light of her secret relationship with Mr Maguire.

She indicated Ms Berejiklian's team would argue this evidence could not 'rationally bear' on ICAC Assistant Commissioner Ruth McColl's assessment as to whether a conflict of interest in fact existed.

Ms McColl, who is presiding over the inquiry, did not accept that ICAC needed to change the course its inquiry was taking.

The ICAC is, in part, investigating if Ms Berejiklian engaged in conduct 'liable to allow or encourage the occurrence of corrupt conduct' by former Liberal MP Daryl Maguire, with whom she was in a secret relationship at the time.

Gary Barnes, secretary of the Department of Regional NSW, is continuing his evidence at the ICAC on Wednesday, having previously given testimony last Friday.

He is giving evidence about a $5.5 million grant from the NSW government in 2016/2017 to the Australian Clay Target Association (ACTA), a gun club in Mr Maguire's electorate of Wagga Wagga.

He agreed he was told that Mr Maguire 'had the ear' of then premier Ms Berejiklian.

Mr Barnes told the inquiry that he believed a staff member in the office of then deputy premier John Barilaro told him in 2017 that Mr Maguire was 'well-regarded by the premier as a person that understood the bush as a Liberal Party person and that he had the ear of the premier'.

ICAC witness list Wednesday 27 October - Gary Barnes, secretary of the Department of Regional NSW Thursday 28 - Daryl Maguire, former Liberal MP Friday 29 - Gladys Berejiklian, former premier of NSW Monday 1 November - Gladys Berejiklian (if evidence not finished on Friday) Advertisement

The ACTA grant was conditionally approved in December 2016 by the NSW government's expenditure review committee (ERC), which was chaired by the then treasurer, Ms Berejiklian.

A month later she became premier, following the resignation of Mike Baird.

ACTA's grant depended on having a satisfactory business case made as the initial business case submitted to cabinet was not strong enough.

The inquiry heard that the NSW government paid external consultants to update the business case.

An invoice tendered into evidence recorded that the government spent $26,950 on the new business case.

Mr Barnes agreed that Ms Berejiklian and Mr Barilaro's offices asked for regular updates about gun club project, and that this was unusual. He understood there was strong interest in the project.

Asked by Mr Robertson about the progress of the grant process, Mr Barnes said it was 'Not my job to make any of the backbenchers happy'.

'We would not want to keep someone happy,' he added, unless things were done the right way.

Mr Barnes told the ICAC that the plan to upgrade the ACTA gun club was approved by government without a competitive process.

There was a 'two-step process' for funding projects from a government system called Restart NSW. The first step included a call for applications and a competitive process.

'This was one of a few projects that was happening outside of that competitive process,' Mr Barnes said.

In the second stage, projects seeking funding had to demonstrate a benefit to cost (BCR) ratio of at least one.

Exceptions were made for projects such as funding for education and health infrastructure.

Department of Regional NSW secretary Gary Barnes (right) arrives at the Independent Commission Against Corruption hearing in Sydney, Wednesday, October 27, 2021

Funding for the Australian Clay Target Association depended on having a BCR of at least one.

Mr Barnes was also asked about a proposal for the state government to give funding millions of dollars to the Riverina Conservatorium of Music (RCM) in Wagga Wagga.

This second 'case study' at the centre of the ICAC's inquiry was another project the then local MP Mr Maguire strongly advocated for.

Mr Barnes told Mr Robertson he believed there was an unsolicited proposal by 2017 for RCM to get a grant to relocate from a Charles Sturt University campus to a government-owned site.

The proposal included the construction of a 'very lavish' recital hall, he believed.

'I didn't think that gifting a government building  was a wise course of action,' Mr Barnes said.

'I did indicate that having access to a performance space would be something that I think was worth looking at down the track, but pretty much the two components, which were a world-class performance hall and creating commercial places or spaces, shouldn't be something that government should focus on, at least initially,' Mr Barnes said.

An email tendered into evidence at the ICAC inquiry into former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian, showing that a funding application was requested not to go through a 'two step process'

'I didn't think that that would be in the public interest,' it would be 'creating revenue stream for a third party,' Mr Barnes said.

'As I'd previously stated, it would have been wonderful to have a facility like that ... (but) our view was it would be very difficult for that to, if you like, stack up.'

The conservatorium was a private not-for-profit body, not a government body.

Though the unsolicited proposal was rejected, the state government granted $10 million to the RCM to relocate to the site.

Mr Barnes told the ICAC that a media release about the RCM from Mr Maguire in February 2018 claiming it had 'secured a permanent new home' was 'inaccurate'.

Gladys Berejiklian arrives at her Willoughby office in Sydney's north shore on Wednesday morning

The press statement from Mr Maguire said 'the building will be redeveloped to house a world class music recital space'.

Mr Barnes said this statement was a case of 'A backbencher that seemed to have overreached'.

'Public servants don't have the gift of what goes into the media, that's a matter for the political class,' he said.

At the time of Mr Maguire's media release, Mr Barnes had recommended to Ms Berejiklian that the government look into options to relocate the conservatorium from its existing site at Charles Sturt University.

A government-owned site in Wagga Wagga had been suggested as a candidate for the new conservatorium, but a final decision about the relocation had not been made.

Mr Robertson asked if Mr Maguire's media release put pressure on the public service to deliver what was promised in the statement.

Scott Robertson, SC, arrives at the ICAC inquiry in Sydney

Mr Barnes replied that it 'possibly put more pressure on government than public service'.

Mr Robertson asked Mr Barnes was asked when he first became aware of the relationship between Mr Berejiklian and Mr Maguire.

He said he had found out about it a year ago after the premier spoke about it in a previous ICAC inquiry.

Asked if it would have changed how he approached his work on projects backed by Mr Maguire, he replied that 'From a public service perspective it would have meant I would have immediately had to discuss whether there were issues'.

Ms Callan questioned Mr Barnes about when, as according to his earlier evidence, he had inferred the premier had an interest in the ACTA project. 'After there had been several requests for updates on the proposal,' he replied.

Ms Callan put it to Mr Barnes that he had never spoken directly to the premier about whether she had an interest in the project. 'No, I did not,' he replied.

He said he 'had formed the opinion that the premier had high regard for Mr Maguire' and that for 'other proposals we rarely got asked to update  at the same frequency that (the ACTA) one had'.

Mr Barnes said thought Mr Maguire may have been hassling Ms Berejiklian or her office about the proposal, in which he had a strong interest.

He said Mr Maguire was a 'particularly pesky backbencher who was continually following up and demanding information'.

Mr Robertson said on Tuesday that evidence from Mr Maguire was being delayed by a day.

'I don't intend to call Mr Maguire tomorrow' due to 'investigative reasons,' Mr Robertson said. This pushed Mr Maguire's evidence to Thursday and Ms Berejiklian's to Friday with the likelihood she will have to return on Monday.

Tuesday's ICAC proceedings started a half hour later than stated, probably due to legal discussions on what exactly 'investigative reasons' means.

On Monday, Ms Berejiklian's former deputy premier John Barilaro said she should have disclosed her relationship with Mr Maguire, whom he referred to as a 'pain in the a**e'.

Ms Callan, sought to turn the tables on Mr Barilaro, asking if he had disclosed relationships of his own.

Mr Barilaro said he 'would have' disclosed any relationships, including family links.

'What about any other intimate personal relationships?' Ms Callan asked.

'That's a hard question because my relationships are with my family,' Mr Barilaro said

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting Mr Barilaro has done anything improper in his personal or professional lives.

Former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro gave evidence to the Independent Commission Against Corruption in Sydney

On Tuesday, ICAC heard from three former advisers to Ms Berejiklian.

Neil Harley, a former chief of staff, said he spoke with Ms Berejiklian about her relationship with Mr Maguire after she was summonsed to give evidence at a different ICAC investigation last year.

'It was a very difficult conversation for both of us,' he said, adding that the former premier is 'inherently a very private person'.

'We didn't go into detail about when (the relationship with Mr Maguire) ... commenced and when it finished,' he said. 'We talked in broad terms about the nature of the relationship.'

Another former chief of staff to Ms Berejiklian later told the ICAC that on Friday 13 July 2018 the then premier called her and told her 'she'd been close in the past with Mr Maguire'.

Sarah Cruickshank said she thought the call was unusual as Mr Berejiklian was on leave at the time.

It was the day it was revealed that Mr Maguire was a person of interest to ICAC.

Former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian (pictured on Wednesday morning) is expected to give evidence to ICAC on Friday

Brad Burden, a former director of strategy to then-premier Ms Berejiklian, was asked if he would have done anything differently about a funding proposal favoured by Mr Maguire if he had known about his relationship with the former premier.

He said the thought 'advice would have been sought around any potential conflicts of interest and how to manage them'.

Both Mr Burden and Mr Harley were adamant that Ms Berejiklain always behaved in a 'principled fashion' and was a 'stickler' for the rules.

She never treated Mr Maguire or his electorate any differently, they agreed under cross examination from Ms Callan. 'Categorically no,' Mr Harley said.

'I cannot recall a single occasion when Ms Berejiklian raised with me either Mr Maguire or the Wagga Wagga electorate. Not a single occasion.'

Of the three senior former staffers who gave evidence on Tuesday, Ms Cruikshank was the only one who knew the pair had been in a relationship before October last year.

ICAC is investigating whether Ms Berejiklian 1. Engaged in conduct between 2012 and 2018 that was 'liable to allow or encourage the occurrence of corrupt conduct' by former Liberal MP Daryl Maguire, with whom she was in a close personal relationship between 2015 and 2018 2. Exercised her official functions dishonestly or partially by refusing to exercise her duty to report any reasonable suspicions about Mr Maguire to the ICAC 3. Exercised any of her official functions partially in connection with two multimillion-dollar grants in Mr Maguire's electorate, to the Australian Clay Target Association Inc and the Riverina Conservatorium of Music Advertisement

ICAC counsel Scott Robertson asked if she was 'quite clear' in her mind that it was a historical relationship before Ms Berejiklian became premier?

'Quite clear,' she replied.

'My recollection was she was telling me from the point of view that she was concerned as people might have seen her out with Mr Maguire,' Ms Cruikshank said.

'She said it was before she became premier and she said that a couple of times to me.'

Ms Cruikshank added: 'I didn't get the impression it was a full-blown intense relationship.'

Ms McColl asked Ms Cruickshank to expand on her evidence about when Ms Berejiklian told her she had been in a relationship with Mr Maguire.

Ms Cruickshank agreed she believed Ms Berejiklian was being honest with her when she said in a phone call on July 13, 2018 that she had been in a 'historical' relationship or friendship with Mr Maguire but it had ended before she became premier in January 2017.

The ICAC subsequently heard that relationship started in 2015 and in continued until 2018. The pair remained in contact until 2020, the inquiry has heard.

'She'd lied to you?' Ms McColl said.

Ms Cruickshank said that was for the inquiry to decide.

She agreed she was 'surprised' when ICAC heard the relationship had not ended before Ms Berejiklian became premier.

One of Ms Berejiklian's lawyers, Sophie Callan, SC, pressed Ms Cruickshank about whether it was simply her 'impression' that the relationship was historical, and not something Ms Berejiklian said to her.

Ms Cruickshank denied that was the case. 'She was categorically clear with me; it was before she was premier,' she said.

As she thought the relationship had ended some time ago, Ms Cruikshank said she and Ms Berejiklian did not discuss whether it needed to be disclosed given the controversy surrounding Mr Maguire.

Gladys's confidant and former chief of staff Neil Harley

'I had no reason to suggest that she needed to do declarations,' she said.

Mr Harley told the commission he subsequently discovered the relationship had 'continued on for a lot longer than I had anticipated' and 'it was more recent' than he thought.

He said if he had previously known about the relationship, he and others 'might have provided advice to her about how that situation could appropriately be managed'.

The ICAC also heard that in an email from August 20, 2018, Mr Harley said Ms Berejiklian wanted to 'push' a plan to award millions in funding for a recital hall in the Riverina Conservatorium of Music in Wagga Wagga.

Mr Maguire had quit politics the previous month after giving evidence at an earlier ICAC inquiry, resulting in a by-election.

The commission has heard the recital hall was one of the projects Mr Maguire had pushed hard for in the pursuit of funding.

Mr Harley said in the email to colleagues in Ms Berejiklian's office that 'I personally don't want to push this project but the premier did'.

Mr Harley added: 'I have never, ever, in my time in politics, known a person more fiercely committed to public service, and serving the people of the state than Ms Berejiklian.'

That's despite Mr Harley - who worked for the premier from 2017 and was her chief of staff from February 2020 until her resignation - admitting he had not supported one of the grants at the focus of the investigation, $20.5 million in funding for the Riverina Conservatorium of Music.

Sarah Cruickshank, a former chief of staff to Gladys Berejiklian, arrives at ICAC on Tuesday

It was 'a longstanding wishlist item' for Mr Maguire, but the promise was made during the 2018 Wagga Wagga by-election after his resignation.

'NSW was deep in drought at this stage, and I felt that providing what was a substantial amount of money to the Conservatory of Music would not be well regarded by the community,' Mr Harley told the ICAC.

He said he couldn't remember how he knew the premier wanted the funding, only that at some point they had 'the briefest of conversations' about it.

However, Mr Harley said the project - ultimately ruled out after recent business case assessments - was not without merit.

'My concern at the time was not about the nature of the project, it was about the nature of the announcement in the context,' he said.

'It's important to note that after the by-election was lost and the new member for Wagga Wagga was elected, he himself made representations and has in fact met with me in my role as chief of staff, advocating for it.'

Ms Berejiklian denies any wrongdoing.
All Australians over 18 will be offered Covid-19 vaccine booster shots at least six months after their second dose.

The boosters, which have been approved by Australia's drug regulator, will be the Pfizer vaccine regardless of which jab the patient had before.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said states and territories will decide whether residents will need to have a booster to be considered fully vaccinated - but boosters won't be required for international travel.

All Australians over 18 will be offered Covid-19 booster shots at least six months after their second dose. Pictured: A vaccination in Sydney last month

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has flagged that boosters will be needed to go to the pub or sporting events in his state.

'A month before your six months is up, then you will get a message and your vaccination certificate, the thing that gets you the green tick, you'll be prompted to go and book a time to go and have your booster shot,' he said on Monday.

'There may be state clinics in that or it might be all done through GPs and pharmacies, that hasn't been worked through yet. We're happy to play our part, though. So it'll be about the maintenance of your vaccination status.'

The move makes Australia only the second country in the world - after Israel - to offer booster shots to all ages.

The US offers them to those over 65 and high risk workers while the UK offers third jabs to residents over 55 and frontline workers.

Boosters in aged care will start being rolled out on Thursday and the general population will have access from November 8, Health Minister Greg Hunt said.

Why are boosters being offered? Overseas data showed the effectiveness of Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines at stopping infections decreases over time. A study in the UK in August showed two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine were 88 per cent effective at stopping infection after one month but that dropped to 74 per cent after five months. The effectiveness of AstraZeneca dropped from 77 to 67 per cent. Pfizer says its booster can restore effectiveness to 96 per cent. Advertisement

Chief Medical Officer Professor Kelly previously said priority groups in phases 1a and 1b of the vaccine rollout would be 'first in line because they are now six or more months after the second dose.'

These groups include quarantine and border workers, aged care residents and staff, healthcare workers, adults over 70, Aboriginal people over 55, younger adults with medical conditions, defence, police, fire services and meat processing workers.

It comes after overseas data showed the effectiveness of Pfizer and AstraZeneca vaccines at stopping infections decreased over time.

A study in the UK in August showed two doses of the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine were 88 per cent effective at stopping infection after one month but that dropped to 74 per cent after five months.

The effectiveness of AstraZeneca dropped from 77 to 67 per cent.

Pfizer says its booster can restore effectiveness to 96 per cent.

Drug regulator boss Professor John Skerritt said two doses were effective at stopping severe illness but boosters could help stop mild infections.

'We do know that boosters may give additional protection against mild Covid and they may have an impact on transmission and we do know that in the elderly, and people of various shades that an additional dose is valuable,' he said.

He said mixing and matching the vaccines 'gives a really good immune response'.

AstraZeneca has not applied to give booster shots of its vaccine but the Government expects Moderna will shortly submit an application.

'With over 151 million Pfizer, Novavax and Moderna vaccines already secured for supply into the future, Australia is well prepared to provide booster doses as approvals are provided by the medical experts,' Mr Hunt said.

Novavax is yet to be approved for use in Australia.

Professor Kelly said Israel's booster shot program, which began in July, has shown that third doses are safe and effective in all age groups.

Some scientists forecast people will need a Covid vaccine once a year as the virus continues to mutate - but Professor Kelly said he hoped three doses would give lifelong immunity.

'A third dose is likely to be last dose that you have to do [in your life],' he said earlier this month.

However Professor Skerritt said it was not clear how often boosters would be needed.

'We didn't know about the duration of protection so no-one knows about the duration of protection post this booster,' he said.

Leading epidemiologist Mary-Louise McLaws said third shots were proven to work well.

'There's fantastic evidence now that your booster shot really does supercharge your immune system to get that vaccine efficacy up high,' she told the Nine Network.

'There are many people who will benefit from this.'

On October 8 Australia's vaccine scientists recommended third vaccine shots for 500,000 severely immunocompromised Australians over 12.

The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation said it does not recommend subsequent doses beyond the third dose at this time.

Many immunocompromised patients who fail to respond to third doses may not respond to further doses, it said.
The family of Troubles veteran Dennis Hutchings last night slammed military top brass after a request for serving soldiers to carry his coffin was allegedly blocked.

Supporters of Mr Hutchings, who died last week while on trial in Belfast over a fatal 1974 shooting, are campaigning for members of his former Army regiment, the Life Guards, to act as pallbearers at his funeral on Remembrance Day.

However, a request made on Friday through the regiment by a former major who served in Northern Ireland alongside Mr Hutchings is said to have been denied by the Life Guards commanding officer.

Dennis Hutchings (pictured in 1978) said he was determined to clear his name over his alleged role in the shooting of John Pat Cunningham in County Tyrone almost 50 years ago

Yesterday, Defence Secretary Ben Wallace, who served in the Scots Guards, stoked a military row as he appeared to back Mr Hutchings family  and vowed to find out who stopped the plans.

Mr Wallace said: If he wants pallbearers at his funeral and the commanding officer is willing to release them, he served his country, hes not been convicted of anything.

I did actually direct the [MoD] to help bring his body back from Northern Ireland, or facilitate it.

Mr Hutchings, 80, was supported by thousands of veterans when he travelled to Belfast this month to stand trial for attempted murder, despite suffering from kidney failure.

Mr Hutchings's supporters outside Belfast Crown Court earlier this month.

He said he was determined to clear his name over his alleged role in the shooting of John Pat Cunningham in County Tyrone almost 50 years ago.

But just days into the trial, Mr Hutchings fell ill.

He then contracted Covid-19 and died alone in hospital on October 18, despite pleas to return to his native Cornwall to continue treatment.

While it is up to each regiment to decide whether it grants military funerals for retired soldiers, Mr Hutchings family were reportedly told it could not be accommodated because he was no longer serving.

Last night his son John Hutchings said: I have only asked the Life Guards one thing in the last six-and-a-half years [since Mr Hutchings arrest] and that is to have pallbearers in uniform.

'I was told you have to be a serving soldier but he was in court for his service as a soldier. Its bang out of order.

'He served 26 years in the Army, put his life on the line. Im really, really disappointed with the decision. Dad loved the Life Guards.

Mr Hutchings partner, Kim Devonshire, added: He was on trial in Northern Ireland fighting on behalf of all the other soldiers, so he was still serving.

He was representing more than 200 soldiers who could still be prosecuted over their service in Northern Ireland.

Major Derek Stratford, who served alongside Mr Hutchings in the Life Guards, said he contacted the Life Guards Association on Friday to request pallbearers.

He said he was told the commanding officer had said no, it cant be arranged in this day and time.

Mr Hutchings fell ill days into the trial. He then contracted Covid-19 and died alone in hospital on October 18, despite pleas to return to his native Cornwall to continue treatment

The 88-year-old added: I think it ought to be and Im disgusted he cant have it.

Mr Hutchings will have a regimental trumpeter at the service in Plymouth on November 11  a date which was offered by coincidence but will have much significance to the thousands of mourners expected to attend.

Former veterans minister Johnny Mercer, who will speak at the funeral, said: I will do all I can to fulfil the familys wishes.

An MoD spokesman said: The MoD supported Mr Hutchings throughout his trial with legal representation and pastoral care, which will continue to be offered to his family. We have not been approached to provide pallbearers for the funeral.

A spokesman for the Life Guards Association declined to comment.

In February, six Yorkshire Regiment members acted as pallbearers for Captain Sir Tom Moore.
One of Australia's most prestigious schools has revealed it won't force its students to wear masks in the classroom.

The King's School in Parramatta, which charges up to $61,000 per year for its senior boarding students, won't be following guidelines developed by NSW Education and NSW Health that say high schoolers should wear masks at school.

While public schools along with most Catholic and private schools have the mask mandate - this is actually inconsistent with the public health orders which say students can remove their face masks.

The Kings School in Parramatta (pictured) said while NSW Education guidelines advised mask wearing for students in class, the public health orders do not require this

Headmaster Tony George said on Friday there was a legal obligation to follow the health orders but because the school was independent they had room to develop their own guidelines.

'The NSW Education Department guidelines are primarily intended for NSW public schools,' Mr George said in the letter seen by The Sydney Morning Herald.

'The King's School seriously considers all the advice and guidelines provided by all relevant authorities  it is the Public Health Orders that provide the express direction to independent schools.'

The guidelines also say singing is not permitted for the short term in schools but Kings said the would also develop their own guidelines in this regard.

There has also been some backlash over mask wearing rules during the HSC exams.

NSW Health has issued a list of strict measures that will be implemented when Year 12 students sit their HSC next month - including the requirement to wear masks during the exams.

Exams begin on November 9 and NSW Health says a suite of measures will be enforced to ensure Covid protocols are observed.

Students have returned to classes in NSW but a number of Covid safety protocols need to be followed including physical distancing and mask wearing

Students will not be allowed to borrow or share equipment such as pens, pencils or calculators, and shaking hands or hugging other students is also banned.

After the exams students will be required to wipe down their chair, and no mingling will be permitted before or after.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet said on Tuesday safety was the highest priority for the government but conceded he would talk to health minister Brad Hazzard about the HSC mask wearing.

'I would accept that the premise of why we've decided for high school students to wear masks is to keep our schools open and to keep our kids safe, that is fundamentally front and centre of our minds,' he said.

NSW Health said the mask rules would also minmise further disruptions to learning.

They revealed a fully-vaccinated student who was wearing a mask would unlikely be considered a close contact if they were exposed to a Covid case.
Priceless manuscripts from some of Britains greatest poets and authors could be lost to the nation without urgent action, Prince Charles warns today.

Writing in the Daily Mail, the heir to the throne said it was too awful to contemplate the loss of handwritten texts by some of the countrys best-known writers  including Sir Walter Scott, Robert Burns and Charlotte Bronte.

And he warned that the UK is facing a race against time to save a collection of literary treasures from being auctioned off and potentially taken abroad.

His heartfelt appeal came amid growing pressure to save the Honresfield Library Collection, which includes notebooks from the Bronte sisters, letters from Jane Austen and Sir Walter Scotts original manuscript for his novel Rob Roy.

Prince Charles reads to pupils of Borrowdale Primary School in Borrowdale, Cumbria, to officially open its new nursery room and playground

The entire collection had been due to go to auction in July.

However, Sothebys agreed to halt the sale so that charity Friends of the National Libraries (FNL) can try to raise the 15million needed to keep the texts in Britain.

FNL, of which Charles is patron, has so far raised 7.5million towards the ambitious target.

However, time is running out to meet the deadline.

The prince has already made a donation to the fund, which has also received more than 116,000 in public donations.

Describing the collection as a treasure trove of jewels, Charles likened the manuscripts to the sketches of great artists such as Leonardo da Vinci.

He added: In saving these priceless manuscripts for the public, we have the opportunity to ensure that these invaluable records of works of genius will remain in the land where they were created, and where they belong.

Praising the appeal as a very important national endeavour, Charles said that literature was in the DNA of British culture.

He paid tribute to classic works such as the novels of Charles Dickens and modern writers including Zadie Smith and JK Rowling, describing them as our most influential exports.

Thought to have been lost for a century, the Honresfield Library is a unique treasury of cornerstones of British culture

Charlotte Bronte's small booklet worth approximately 600,000 with the Walter Scott manuscripts beneath, also worth around 1million

And he added that the nation would benefit if the Honresfield collection was kept in Britain as the manuscripts would be shared between libraries around the country, north and south.

Writing in todays Mail, he also revealed that the appeal was a very personal one. He recalled how his father, the Duke of Edinburgh, used to read to him as a child and growing up he was surrounded by books in the Royal Library at Windsor Castle.

The FNL appeal to save the texts has won other high-profile supporters including Stephen Fry and the estate of the poet TS Eliot.

Actor Ralph Fiennes is also playing his part with a solo performance of Eliots Four Quartets in London from next month, which will reportedly benefit the cause through royalties paid to the Eliot charity, Old Possums Practical Trust.

The campaign is being supported by a consortium of institutions across the country including the National Library of Scotland in Edinburgh, the Bodleian Libraries in Oxford and the Bronte Parsonage Museum in Haworth, West Yorkshire.

Describing it as a noble campaign, Charles said the appeal would protect part of Britains cultural heritage and keep it in this country, rather than allowing it to fall into the hands of private collectors.

He wrote: For anyone who has ever been moved by the words of these incomparable artists, the idea of reading these manuscripts is thrilling beyond words.

'For the same reason, the idea of them being lost to this country is too awful to contemplate.

The collection was put together in the 19th century by two Yorkshire industrialists. It has been largely inaccessible for the last 80 years and access to it has only been granted to academic researchers.

For more information about the Friends of the National Libraries, including how to donate to the Honresfield Appeal, please visit www.fnl.org.uk

Why we must fight to keep the 15m jewels of our literary crown in Britain, writes HRH PRINCE OF WALES

From Chaucer to Shakespeare, literature is in the DNA of our culture.

From the Romantic poets who gave a new way of seeing the world, to novelists like J.R.R. Tolkien and J.K. Rowling, who gave us new worlds to explore, our writers are among our greatest cultural treasures and our most influential exports.

Our minds, and indeed our lives, are enriched immeasurably by the work of our writers across these islands, and across the ages: from the great 19th-century novelists such as Dickens, through to poets such as Ted Hughes and the work of current generations such as Zadie Smith and our present Poet Laureate Simon Armitage.

It is simply impossible to imagine what our cultural life would be like without them.

Prince Charles unveiling a plaque during a visit to the Gloucester and District Branch of Samaritans on October 26

This is why, as patron of the Friends of the National Libraries, I recognise the critical importance of their noble campaign to ensure that some of the most precious manuscripts associated with our greatest authors are kept in this country rather than being dispersed abroad.

Just as the drawings and sketches of great painters provide the code to understanding the creative process of an artist such as Titian or Leonardo da Vinci, the manuscripts of a writer are the key to the route by which the author found his or her way to the words which then form part of our collective memory.

In this particular regard, the Honresfield Library is one of the great hidden treasure troves of 19th-century literature, and now that its contents have become available for sale, the Friends of the National Libraries are determined that these manuscripts should remain in the country in which they were formed, and whose culture these works went on to form in their turn.

The jewels in this collection are the manuscripts of Sir Walter Scott with The Lay of the Last Minstrel, together with poems by Robert Burns in his own hand  containing some of his earliest recorded literary works known as the First Commonplace Book  and, of course, the notebooks of Charlotte Bronte.

For anyone who has ever been moved by the words of these incomparable artists, the idea of reading these manuscripts is thrilling beyond words.

For the same reason, the idea of them being lost to this country is too awful to contemplate.

Birthday notes by Emily and Anne Bronte (1841) with sketches by Emily Thought lost for a century

I became patron of the Friends of the National Libraries to support their valuable mission to conserve, preserve and present manuscripts and books from the Middle Ages to the early 21st century to scholars, schools, academics and the public across the country.

As well as a very important national endeavour, this for me is also a very personal one.

I can so well remember being read to as a child  particularly being captivated by my father reading Longfellows Hiawatha, with its haunting rhythm and evocative images  and was blessed to grow up surrounded by books in the Royal Library at Windsor which, as I grew older, became an endless source of fascination and inspiration.

C.S. Lewis reputedly said we read to know were not alone, and who could wish for better companions than the writers whose wisdom, insight and vision are always readily at hand.

The campaign to raise 15million to buy this collection is one which benefits the whole United Kingdom, as the Friends have brought together a consortium of libraries from Leeds, Edinburgh, Hampshire, London and beyond.

When it is purchased, the collection will be shared between all these libraries, large and small, north and south.

I know that I share with so many people in this country a love of the literature that is so much a part of our personal and collective histories.

In giving us words to describe our human experience in all its complexity, literature has, truly, helped make us what we are.

In saving these priceless manuscripts for the public, we have the opportunity to ensure that these invaluable records of works of genius will remain in the land where they were created, and where they belong.
An electrician has tragically died in a workplace incident at a Mexican restaurant after being electrocuted.

Tony Balalovski, 40, was installing a light at the Taco Bill Restaurant on Princes Highway in Melbourne's southeast suburb of Pakenham at about 6pm on Tuesday when he was killed.

Police and the SES attended the scene and were at the Mexican restaurant overnight.

Tony Balalovski, 40, was installing a light at the Taco Bill Restaurant on Princes Highway in Melbourne 's southeast suburb of Pakenham about 6pm on Tuesday when he died

Police and the SES attended the scene and were at the Mexican restaurant overnight

Relatives of the electrician have remembered the 40-year-old as a skilful water skier and a special person.

'RIP our beautiful angel Tony Balalovski. Gone way too soon. So tragic,' wrote one relative on Facebook.

'You have left your family lost for words and in complete shock. Fly high and ski fast brother.'

Pictured: Emergency crews at the scene of the tragic death

Sammie Petrevski, a cousin of Mr Balalovski, told The Herald Sun that he was always lively and loving.

'Tony was the person who wanted to experience life to the fullest and to make the absolute best out of his life,' she told the publication.

'Tony was special to each and every single person who is in his life, his impact on everyone is major.'

Every year, Mr Balalovski took part in a ski race 'Southern 80', which was held on the Murray River in Echuca.

Relatives of the electrician have remembered the 40-year-old man as a skilful water skier and a special person

Ms Petrevski said the gifted water skier was always elated while on the water, and taught his family several different water sports.

'When Tony was on the water, you could tell that's when he was happiest, where he was most free.'

She added that Mr Balalovski was always the greatest person to be with and always knew how to be joyful in any situation.

Taco Bill Pakenham said in a statement on Facebook: 'We are deeply saddened by the devastating accident that occurred yesterday at Taco Bill Pakenham that resulted in the tragic death of a contracted tradesman.

WorkSafe and Energy Safe Victoria have said they are continuing to investigate the fatality (Pictured: SES crew at the scene)

'On behalf of the Taco Bill family, we extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.'

The restaurant had announced on October 18 that it would be closed for renovations.

It was set to re-open on October 29 for take-away and dine in.

WorkSafe and Energy Safe Victoria have said they are continuing to investigate the fatality.

Police will prepare a report for the Coroner.
NSW's contact tracing app does not automatically notify users if they have visited a Covid exposure site - meaning thousands of residents may be missing out on the vital alerts.

Users can check the 'history' section of the Service NSW app to see whether any of the venues they have been to are confirmed exposure sites.

But many of the 700,000 case alerts raised by NSW Health in the past month may have gone unnoticed as they do not appear on a phone's home screen as a push notification.

A shopper uses a QR code at a supermarket at The Corso in Manly on Sydney's northern beaches. NSW's contact tracing app does not automatically notify users if they have visited a Covid exposure site, meaning thousands could have missed out on case alerts

NSW Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello said the state government was not planning on incorporating push alerts into the app until December 1.

'Come December 1, we aim to accompany these alerts with push notifications through the Service NSW app,' he told the Sydney Morning Herald.

'In-app case alerts make it easier for customers to see if they have visited an exposure site.'

As of September, users can scroll through their history on the Covid Safe Check-In service to see if any of their locations are listed with a red 'Covid-19 case alert' icon.

From September 30 to October 25, NSW Health said it published more than 700,000 case alerts.

Mr Dominello said push notifications would become more necessary in the coming months when traditional contact tracing methods are scaled back and Australia begins to live with the virus.

Immediate Communications Director Chris Urquhart said he only found out the supermarket he visited last week had been exposed when he checked his history.

'Blows my mind that the Service NSW app still doesnt send you a push notification if youve visited a known exposure site,' he said.

Immediate Communications Director Chris Urquhart said he only found out the supermarket he visited last week had been exposed when he checked his history

'You have to go into your history regularly and check. I happened to do that today and got a surprise.'

Technology experts fear the app's lack of functionality means users may be completely unaware they need to get tested for Covid-19.

'This could have been implemented a year ago and with better privacy controls about how data is stored, which has been done well in New Zealand and the UK,' software developer Jim Mussared said.

The revelation came after it emerged the national CovidSafe app has been used only 44 times in six months this year - despite costing the federal government $8million to create.

The app has been downloaded 7.6million times but has shared and collected data from fewer than 800 people.

New South Wales reported 304 new Covid cases - slightly up from the 282 new infections reported the day before - and three deaths on Wednesday.

Residents practice boxing next to Bronte Beach on October 22. NSW Customer Service Minister Victor Dominello said the state government was not planning on incorporating push alerts into the app until December 1

The state's double-dose vaccination rate has hit 85.5 per cent of eligible residents aged over the age of 16, while 93.2 per cent have received one shot of a Covid vaccine.

As of Wednesday, it is illegal for residents to present a fake proof of vaccination when attempting to join the vaccinated in gyms, cafes, pubs and restaurants.

The amendment to the public health order was signed off by Health Minister Brad Hazzard on Tuesday, after security experts warned the certificates could be forged.

The federal government was warned the document can be forged within ten minutes as people alter or copy a version and change the name.

The law states a person must not provide, display or produce information or evidence purporting to show the person is fully vaccinated, unless the information or evidence is true and accurate.

Those who breach the health order can be fined a maximum penalty of imprisonment for six months and/or an $11,000 fine.
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Prince Andrew will be pulled from all next year's Platinum Jubilee events after a US court scheduled his bombshell sex abuse case to clash with the celebrations, according to reports.

The Duke of York, who has stepped down from royal duties amid Jeffrey Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre's astonishing lawsuit, will reportedly not even appear with the sovereign and other royals on the Buckingham Palace balcony for an RAF flypast.

An insider told The Sun that the plan is for Andrew, 61, to be 'invisible' during the four-day national royal party to mark what will be his mother the Queen's 70th year on the throne between Thursday, June 2 and Sunday, June 5 next year.

Judge Lewis Kaplan has ruled, with the agreement of both parties, that disclosure, which includes Andrew testifying under oath, should be completed by July 14 - just five weeks after the jubilee.

Documents lodged in New York also state that a pre-trial order is finished by July 28 next year. Lawyers will reveal Andrew's response to the sex allegations on Friday ahead of a pre-trial review in New York next week.

Ms Giuffre, formerly Virginia Roberts, is suing the duke for sexual assault including rape in the first degree in 2001 when she was 17 in London, New York and at other locations including Epstein's private Caribbean island Little St James. The senior royal categorically denies that he had any form of sexual contact or relationship with Ms Giuffre.

Organisers are also reportedly trying to establish what to do with Harry and Meghan during the Platinum Jubilee events, which will include street parties, a live televised gig and lighting of beacons across the UK.

Prince Andrew, left, will be pulled from all next year's Platinum Jubilee events to mark what will be his mother the Queen's 70th year on the throne after a US court scheduled his bombshell sex abuse case to clash with the celebrations, according to reports (right, Her Majesty on October 14, 2021)

Queen Elizabeth II with her son Prince Andrew on the Buckingham Palace balcony in June 2019

The Palace did not want to comment and a spokesman for the duke did not want to respond when approached by The Sun.

Royal expert Nigel Cawthorne, author of Prince Andrew: Epstein, Maxwell And The Palace, told the newspaper: 'It is very sensible otherwise the attention would all be on Andrew.

The duke pictured with Virginia Roberts in London

'It is an embarrassing situation for the Queen especially as she is stumping up for his defence. He just has to keep his head down.'

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams previously said that there will now be a 'cloud' over the festivities, caused by Andrew's 'atrociously ill-advised friendship with Epstein'.

He told MailOnline: 'The news that the court case brought by Virginia Roberts Giuffre against Prince Andrew will be heard in the run-up to the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations is grim news for the Palace.

'It means that speculation which is certain to be sensational is likely to make headline news over the coming months.

'It is unclear if the disclosure of the 2009 settlement agreement between the deceased paedophile Epstein and Virginia Roberts, to which his lawyers have recently been given access, will be helpful to his case.

'If Prince Andrew were required to answer questions put to him by her lawyers, he could exercise his right to be silent, or he could claim the request should be set aside as he has no evidence which is material to offer.'

The latest court document shows that Judge Kaplan intends to draw a line under any amendments to the New York proceedings by December 15.

All disclosures relating to expert witnesses should be made by June 13 with the disclosure process complete a month later. One US legal expert described the scheduling order as 'brisk'.

Mr Fitzwilliams added that Andrew has 'strongly denied the charges and undoubtedly believes that if he can discredit his accuser, some of whose statements have appeared contradictory, this would be a route back for him to salvage his reputation'.

He continued: 'Obviously if he were attempt to settle, it would be seen as an admission of guilt.

Andrew has always denied claims by Virginia Giuffre (left) that she was trafficked by her abuser Jeffrey Epstein (right) to have sex with him on three occasions when she was 17

The Queen at a reception for the Global Investment Conference at Windsor Castle last Tuesday

'At this stage it is unclear what precisely what will happen in the coming months but the publicity accompanying it will undoubtedly be deeply damaging to the royal family.

'The Queen, who is reportedly funding his legal bills, will be celebrating an anniversary unique in this country's history, but there will be a cloud caused by his atrociously ill-advised friendship with Epstein.

Virginia Giuffre is pictured after a hearing in the Jeffrey Epstein case in New York in 2019

'However, a very serious block to any rehabilitation is the court of public opinion in which his support is, according to polls, almost non-existent.

'There has been no indication that he has cooperated with the FBI who are trying to trace Epstein's accomplices, as he promised to do.'

Andrew, who was a close friend of financier and convicted paedophile Epstein, has always denied Virginia Giuffre's claims that she was trafficked by her abuser to have sex with him on three occasions when she was 17.

Although the prince and his legal team were shocked when she suddenly lodged a civil claim against him in April, they now intend to use it to try to prove his innocence once and for all.

They have until this Friday to respond to the claims in her lawsuit, with a further hearing at a court in Manhattan due to be held next week. Epstein killed himself while in custody.

Mr Fitzwilliams continued: 'His (Andrew's) interview with Emily Maitlis is one of the greatest public relations disasters in royal history.

'There appears to be no way back for him, which is why he may feel he has little to lose in conducting a more aggressive defence.

'The damage to the monarchy, however, may be considerable during a period which ought to be one of rejoicing.'

In the Newsnight interview with the BBC's Emily Maitlis in November 2019, Andrew denied claims that he slept with Ms Giuffre on three separate occasions and said: 'I can absolutely categorically tell you it never happened.

'I have no recollection of ever meeting this lady, none whatsoever.'

The duke also said he has no memory of a well-known photograph of him with his arm around Ms Giuffre's waist and has questioned whether it was his own hand in the image.

The fallout from the interview saw the royal criticised for showing a lack of empathy towards Epstein's victims and a lack of remorse over his friendship with disgraced financier.

Earlier this month the Metropolitan Police said it was taking no action over Ms Giuffre's claims. Andrew has not been charged with any crime.
Ministers were last night under growing pressure to boost the uptake of Covid jabs among school pupils following a surge in classroom infections.

Cases among under-18s are higher than ever, according to the respected Zoe Covid Study  raising fears they could pass it to high-risk older relatives.

Just 20.7 per cent of those aged 12 to 15 in England have been vaccinated in the month since the NHS started its rollout in schools.

Ministers had hoped to vaccinate all pupils by half term.

Teaching unions described their extreme frustration with the slow pace of the programme, which they said had been plagued with problems.

Cases among under-18s are higher than ever and just 20.7 per cent of those aged 12 to 15 in England have been vaccinated since the NHS started its rollout in schools (stock image)

Teachers have complained of too few vaccinators to meet demand and teams turning up without enough doses, while inconsistent messaging from Government advisers has fuelled a degree of hesitancy among parents.

Ministers last week opened up online booking systems to 12 to 15-year-olds, allowing parents to take them to vaccination centres. But not every clinic is able to cater for children.

Geoff Barton, of the Association of School and College Leaders, said Covid continues to cause havoc to the education of children.

He added: It is extremely frustrating that the vaccination programme has been beset by logistical problems and unforeseen delays, and ultimately fell well short of its original target.

It was incredibly remiss of the Government not to have ensured there was sufficient capacity in place to deliver this vital programme at the scale and speed required.

We cling to the hope that allowing young people to book their jab at vaccination centres during half term will help boost the numbers who are vaccinated. But there will still be much to do when schools return.

Paul Whiteman, of the National Association of Head Teachers, said some children were missing their chance of a jab because they had caught Covid.

Letters will be sent to 2.5million children in England eligible to receive the vaccine, inviting parents to book a jab through the national booking service as Health Secretary Sajid Javid (pictured) said vaccines are available to young people through a 'tried and tested programme'

He added that uptake of the vaccine may never be as high among children as the wider population, and called for additional measures such as improved ventilation and reconsidering current guidance on close contact isolation. We also need a track and trace system that is working effectively, he said.

Uptake among 12 to 15-year-olds in Scotland is more than twice as high as in England at 52.7 per cent.

More than 80,000 children aged 12 to 15 had been booked-in online to receive their Covid jab in England as of yesterday morning  just 3.2 per cent of the 2.5million eligible to receive it.

Letters will be landing on the doorsteps of these 2.5million this week, inviting parents to book a jab through the national booking service.

Dr Bharat Pankhania, clinical lecturer in public heath at the University of Exeter Medical School, said the programme had been poorly organised, adding: There are simply not enough staff to cope with the demands placed upon them.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said: The vaccines are available to young people through a tried and tested school immunisation programme and parents or guardians can book a jab at local vaccination sites.
A leaseholder who is already having to deal with expensive cladding issues has hit out at poor craftsmanship after the floor of his flat collapsed beneath his feet.

Liam Spender explained that he was at home at the weekend when he felt the floor give way.

'I felt the floor go and moved quickly out of the way. I turned back and there was a dip in the carpet. I nearly fell through the floor,' he said.

1/4 Hello @BerkeleyGroupUK. Just to let you know I nearly fell through one of your floors this morning.



The floor you built 20 years ago has no batons holding it up. There's only air between the floor boards and the room underneath.



So much for "Designed for Life". pic.twitter.com/MOwRzd8Yy1  Liam Spender (@LiamSpender) October 23, 2021

Leaseholder Liam Spender (pictured) has hit out at poor craftsmanship at his London home in Canary Wharf

Mr Spender lifted the carpet at his London flat near Canary Wharf to reveal the full extent of the damage - a hole that is approximately 40cm by 30cm.

He explained that his flat is across two levels, meaning that the floor between is allowed to be made as it is - with chipboard and wooden joists - and does not need to include concrete.

However, Mr Spender claimed that the sheets of chipboard were not adequately supported by the floor joists.

The damaged floor is on a gallery above his bedroom. 'It could have been a lot worse and I could have gone straight through,' he said.

Taking to Twitter, Mr Spender explained how the floor was not adequate, saying: 'There is only air between the floor boards and the room underneath.'

Mr Spender claimed that the chipboard floor was not adequately supported by the floor joists

The flat owner revealed the full extent of the damage - a hole that is approximately 40cm by 30cm

It is the latest challenge Mr Spender has at his building, as he already faces a bill for remediation works due to cladding issues.

'I'm going to get the bill for fixing the mess on cladding. The broken floor is literally a step too far.

He said: 'I'm going to get the bill for fixing the mess on cladding. The broken floor is literally a step too far.

'I have not had my bill for the cladding issues yet. But I'll be sending the bill for the floor and the cladding - when it comes - marked for the attention of the chief executive and chairman of Berkeley homes.'

Since the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, concerns about cladding have become a national issue.

Lenders have refused to provide finance on some types of cladding, leaving some flat owners trapped in unsafe homes that they are unable to sell.

Berkeley Group was approached for comment, but declined to comment.
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Archaeologists have discovered evidence of a massive medieval tannery at Fountains Abbey, one of the largest ruined Cistercian monasteries in England.

The researchers, from the National Trust and the University of Bradford, used ground penetrating radar to identify the remains of the tannery  where hides of animals are treated to produce leather  at the 12th century abbey near Ripon in North Yorkshire.

They found evidence of an 'industrial scale' tanning operation that would have required hundreds of people, which would have contrasted with the peaceful religious activity close-by.

The find, described as the 'missing piece of the puzzle' at the abbey, has been described as the largest tannery yet discovered at a monastic site in Britain.

Tanning was a vital part of the abbey economy where animal hides would be de-haired and cured to make leather for uses such as clothing, belts, bedding, book bindings and parchment for reproducing religious texts by the monastic scribes.

But tanning was a rather disgusting operation; hides were usually shipped to the tannery covered in dirt and blood, already stiff and rotting before being soaked in human urine to remove hairs.

The find is of particular significance because of its size  the researchers said it indicated an industrial scale operation requiring hundreds of people. The two buildings dedicated to tanning operations at Fountains Abbey are marked in red. The one on the left may have extended across the nearby River Skell

WHAT IS A TANNERY? A tannery is where hides of animals are treated to produce leather. Water dissolves chemicals, enzymes and dyes in the processing of hides It combines a substance called tannin with the hide fibres, allowing the resulting leather to be dried, yet remain flexible. The process has been used to craft footwear, clothing, belts, containers, weapons, transportation devices, and even armour. Source: Weaver Leather Advertisement

So the fact tanning operations were situated so close to the rest of the abbey community has surprised archaeologists.

'A tannery of this size, spanning such a large area of the site, reveals an operation on an industrial scale, meeting the needs for leather and other processed animal skins for the community of hundreds of people in the growing monastic community,' said Mark Newman, National Trust archaeologist.

'Its scale also reflects an aspect of the productivity of the huge herds the abbey acquired and managed.

'Also, given the noise, activity and stench that emanated from a tannery, we previously thought that it would have been sited further away from the monks and their worship.

'We see now that the tannery was much closer and a far cry from the idea of a quiet, tranquil abbey community.'

Fountains Abbey was built in 1132, but the researchers think the tannery was operational from the late 1150s or 1160s until the 1530s.

Today, Fountains Abbey is 'an oasis of tranquillity', Newman said, but in the 12th and 13th centuries, it was 'as busy and industrialised a piece of landscape' as anywhere else in Britain.

Experts had always been puzzled by a 'bowling alley-shaped' strip of land on the east side of the Fountains Abbey precinct, close to the River Skell.

With help from Geoscan Research and Magnitude Surveys, the experts used ground penetrating radar, which uses radar pulses to image the subsurface, backed up with other geophysical survey methods.

This 'bowling alley-shaped' strip was the location of two substantial stone buildings, each around 50 feet (16 metres) wide, with lined pits, tanks and other structures around them.

Fountains Abbey (pictured) is one of the largest ruined Cistercian monasteries in England. Two structures used for tanning operations originally sat just right of the entrance pictured here, in a 'bowling-alley-shaped' strip of land

One of the stone buildings was at least 104 feet (32 metres) long. In both buildings, two aisles of columns suggest they would have been more than a single story in height.

The larger building likely extended over the river itself on stone arches, just like some of the other later twelfth century buildings on the site.

The larger building also had a large porch facing westwards back towards the abbey church just north of the present river bank.

National Trust said: 'The second, squarer, building lies just to the east, with four internal column bases clearly visible.

Man occupied in the leather producing industry, shown sorting skins after drying. Tanning was usually the work of lay brothers - men who fulfilled a role focused upon manual service and other secular matters

HISTORICAL TANNING Animal hides were shipped to the tannery covered in dirt and blood, already stiff and rotting. The tanner would have to soak the hides in water to clean them and restore malleability. Then they had to scrub away any remaining fat or tissue from the underside of the hide. Next, they would soak the hide again, in human urine to remove hairs. When the hairs were loose enough, they scraped the hide with a knife to produce a smooth surface. The tanner then had to soften the hide into a workable material. To accomplish this, they pounded animal faeces into the hide or soaked it in diluted animal brains. The bacteria growing in the faeces or brains fermented the hides, allowing them to last longer. Finally, the tanner would soak the material in a tanning solution of ground up bark to give it colour. Source: LeatherWallets.org Advertisement

'There are also traces of other enclosures and perhaps a third building along with a series of what appear to be lined pits.

'If the identification is correct this would be the largest monastic tannery discovered in the UK and confirms just how important this function was to the Abbey community.'

The remains, along with the proximity to the river for water  a key requirement for the tanning process  has led to the conclusion that this was the tannery serving the Fountains Abbey community.

'For much of the 20th century, many people believed there was no further archaeological research work to do at Fountains and that pretty much everything to be found had been found,' said Hilary McGrady, director-general of the National Trust.

'The team's work with University of Bradford and our other partners, shows the opposite  there is so much more still to discover there.

'The discovery of the tannery buildings has provided a missing link and represents some key named buildings the team wanted to identify on the site.'

According to the National Trust, the findings reveal 'remarkable new evidence' about Fountains Abbey's community of monks and 'lay brothers'  men who fulfilled a role focused upon manual service and other secular matters.

Lay brothers were not literate like monks and were often recruited to bring crucial craft skills to the monastery, relieving the monks from most physical jobs so they could dedicate more time to study and worship.

'While monks had woollen habits and cloth blankets to sleep under, lay brothers were provided with weatherproof animal skin capes for outdoor work and slept under sheepskins,' said Newman.

'Fountains recruited hundreds of lay brothers in its early decades all of whom needed to be equipped this way and this tannery provided the means for that.'

However, lay brothers were 'separate but equal', according to St Bernard, creator of the Cistercian Order, and were not intended to be inferior to the monks. In fact, monks and lay brothers were buried together as equals.

The lay brothers and the tannery were also central to the whole monastic mission in that one of Fountains' purposes was to 'grow' communities of monks capable of leaving the Mother house to form new monasteries  across the North and even into Norway.

Animal hides would be de-haired and cured to make leather for uses such as clothing, belts, bedding, book bindings and vellum or parchment for reproducing religious texts. Pictured, a leather bound volume from Fountains Abbey

The sites of new houses would be prepared by teams of lay brothers, and the new community would be furnished with sets of religious texts, copied by the monks at Fountains Abbey on vellum  dried goat or calf skin  and parchment prepared from animal skins.

The project team believe that the newly discovered building may have been where the vellum and parchment was produced, both at their inception and perhaps in the early years of the lives of the new monasteries as they grew.

In later years, the numbers of lay brothers at Fountains Abbey reduced due to social changes including better economic and other opportunities outside the abbey community.

But the tannery remained in operation right until the last days before the Dissolution of the Monasteries in October 1539.

Today, Fountains Abbey is a World Heritage Site and visitors can walk among its stunning ruins.
SpaceX's Halloween mission to the International Space Station looks set to launch as scheduled  providing NASA approves the Crew Dragon capsule's upgraded toilet.

The in-flight 'facilities' needed a revamp after a minor leak was noticed in the wake of last month's three-day Inspiration4 mission, which took private citizens into orbit.

The Crew-3 flight will transport four astronauts to the orbiting lab for a six-month stay  including NASA's Raja Chari (the mission commander) and Tom Mashburn.

Making up the final two members of the crew are Kayla Barron, also of NASA, and Matthias Maurer of the European Space Agency.

Weather permitting, lift-off atop a Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled for 2:21 AM EDT (07:21 GMT) on Sunday October 31 from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The team will arrive at the International Space Station (ISS) early in the morning on November 1, where they will handover with their predecessors on the Crew-2 flight.

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SpaceX's Halloween mission to the International Space Station (ISS) looks set to launch as scheduled  providing NASA approves the Crew Dragon capsule's upgraded toilet. Pictured: the crew capsule arriving at the Kennedy Space Center on Sunday

The Crew-3 flight will transport four astronauts to the orbiting lab for a six-month stay  including NASA's Raja Chari (the mission commander) and Tom Mashburn. Making up the final two members of the crew are Kayla Barron, also of NASA, and Matthias Maurer of the European Space Agency. Pictured: an artist's impression of a Crew Dragon spacecraft docking at the ISS

NASA announced that the Crew-3 mission had the green light for Sunday morning's launch following a successful flight readiness review yesterday.

'We had a good review today,' NASA's International Space Station program manager Joel Montalbano said during last night's press conference.

Although the review flagged no unexpected issues that would necessitate pushing back the launch date, NASA and SpaceX engineers are still working to resolve a possible flaw in the capsule's toilet waste system spotted last month.

The issue was noted after the Inspiration4 mission returned to Earth, having taken billionaire CEO Jared Isaacman, geologist Sian Proctor, data engineer Christopher Sembroski and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital's Hayley Arceneaux into orbit.

Engineers inspecting the 'Resilience' capsule used in that mission found that a tube feeding into the toilet waste storage tank had come loose during the flight.

This, SpaceX vice president of build and flight reliability Bill Gerstenmaier said, 'allowed urine to not go into the storage tank but, essentially, to go into the fan system'  albeit not in any way that significantly affected the Inspiration4 mission.

'We didn't really even notice it; the crew didn't notice it until we got back,' he added.

While the Crew-3 mission will be using a different capsule  recently named 'Endurance'  its toilet system shares a design with that of the Resilience capsule.

NASA announced that the Crew-3 mission had the green light for Sunday morning's launch following a successful flight readiness review yesterday. Pictured: the capsule arrives in its hangar at NASA's Kennedy Space Center on Sunday

In the wake of the Inspiration 4 flight, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk tweeted that upgraded toilets were definitely needed. He added: 'We had some challenges with it this flight.'

In the wake of the Inspiration4 flight, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk tweeted that upgraded toilets were definitely needed. He added: 'We had some challenges with it this flight.'

To address the issue, Endurance will be upgraded with a fully welded toilet system  one that, it is hoped, will prevent tubes from coming loose.

NASA engineers are expected to give the redesign the necessary pre-flight approval within the coming days.

The flaw in the original toilet plumbing may also affect the Endeavour capsule which flew SpaceX's Crew-2 mission to the ISS back in late April this year  and is presently docked with the orbiting laboratory and scheduled to depart on November 4.

However, astronauts have reported that an examination of the capsule has shown no signs of leaks  which would be visible in the form of corrosion brought about by a chemical SpaceX's waste system uses to remove ammonia from urine.

It is likely, however, that the capsule will require upgrading on its return to Earth.

As Dr Gerstenmaier noted, Endeavour's toilet facilities were only used during its 24-hour trip to the ISS  and the design might only be susceptible to issues on the kind of longer flight experienced by Resilience on its three-day Inspiration4 flight.

Weather permitting, lift-off atop a Falcon 9 rocket is scheduled for 2:21 AM EDT (07:21 GMT) on Sunday October 31 from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida
A flying motorbike that can cruise at speeds of 60 miles per hour (100kph) for up to 40 minutes is due to go on sale for just under 500,000 ($682,000) next year.

The 'Xturismo'  the brainchild of Tokyo-based drone start-up A.L.I. Technologies  was unveiled during a test-flight on an empty racetrack in the foothills of Mount Fuji.

The firm is planning to produce a limited run of 200 of the single-rider hoverbikes, each of which weighs in at 661lbs (300kg), for delivery in the first half of 2022.

Alongside being used as part of leisure activities, the bike has potential to help rescue people from accidents at sea, a Japanese MP said yesterday.

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A flying motorbike (pictured) that can cruise at speeds of 60 miles per hour (100kph) for up to 40 minutes is due to go on sale for just under 500,000 ($682,000) next year

The 'Xturismo' (pictured)  the brainchild of Tokyo-based drone start-up A.L.I. Technologies  was unveiled during a test-flight on an empty racetrack in the foothills of Mt Fuji

A.L.I. Technologies is planning to produce a limited run of 200 of the single-rider hoverbikes, each of which weighs in at 661 lbs (300 kg), for delivery in the first half of 2022

XTURISMO STATS Dimensions: 12.1 x 7.9 x 4.9 feet Weight: 661 lbs Max. payload: around 220 lbs Max. cruising speed: 60 mph Cruising duration: 40 minutes Cost: around 500,000 Advertisement

The demonstration flight  which was witnessed by a crowd of guests and members of the press  saw the Xturismo rise up several feet above the ground and glided around above the racetrack for around a minute and a half.

'We would like to propose a new lifestyle with this floating vehicle,' A.L.I. Technologies CEO Daisuke Katano said at the event at the Fuji Speedway Racing Course, Nikkei Asia reported.

Powered by an internal combustion engine, the Xturismo is kept aloft by two primary propellers, which are situated where the wheels would be on a conventional motorcycle.

Four auxiliary propellers placed at the corners of the vehicle, meanwhile, provide stabilisation.

One drawback of the design may turn out to be the reportedly deafening roar of the Xturismo's engine and six rotor blades  with onlookers having been issued with earplugs to protect their hearing prior to the flight.

According to A.L.I. Technologies, the Xturismo employs the same altitude control technology that the firm already uses in its unmanned drones, ensuring a smooth flight when aloft.

When resting on the ground, the hoverbike rests on two landing skids  similar to those that might be seen on a conventional helicopter.

A.L.I. Technologies is backed by the Kyocera, a Kyoto-based ceramics and electronics manufacturer, as well as by Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Venture Capital.

The demonstration flight (pictured)  which was witnessed by a crowd of guests and members of the press  saw the Xturismo rise up several feet above the ground and glided around above the racetrack for around a minute and a half

'We would like to propose a new lifestyle with this floating vehicle,' A.L.I. Technologies CEO Daisuke Katano said at the event at the Fuji Speedway Racing Course, Nikkei Asia reported

Powered by an internal combustion engine, the Xturismo is kept aloft by two primary propellers, which are situated where the wheels would be on a conventional motorcycle

A.L.I. Technologies' Xturismo is just one of a number of flying vehicles presently in development and looking to hit the market soon.

Back in July, California-based JetPack Aviation announced the successful test flight of its 'Speeder' cycle, which can reach an altitude of 15,000 feet and is currently available for pre-order from 275,400 ($380,000) for delivery as soon as 2023.

Various firms, meanwhile, are developing flying vehicles which more resemble cars  with one recent example being the 'Jetson One', a vertical take-off and landing craft which resembles those in the 1960s US animation after which it was named.

The Swedish-designed vehicle has a maximum range of around 15 miles, making it more of a leisure craft than a practical mode of transport, and is retailing for 66,000 ($92,000).

Four auxiliary propellers placed at the corners of the vehicle provide stabilisation. Pictured: the Xturismo being put through its paces at the Fuji Speedway Racing Course yesterday

One drawback of the design may turn out to be the reportedly deafening roar of the Xturismo's engine and six rotor blades  with onlookers having been issued with earplugs

According to A.L.I. Technologies, the Xturismo employs the same altitude control technology that the firm already uses in its unmanned drones, ensuring a smooth flight when aloft
The mysterious radio signal that researchers thought may have emanated from the closest star to Earth, Proxima Centauri, was likely nothing more than a 'false positive,' scientists announced late Monday.

Researchers from the Breakthrough Listen Initiative said the 'intriguing' signal that was picked up in 2020 is likely just an 'an artifact of Earth-based interference from human technologies.'

Dr Sofia Sheikh, a researcher with the Listen team, looked at the data set for the signals and found they are spaced at 'regular frequency intervals.'

The intervals appear to correspond to multiples of frequencies used by oscillators commonly used in electronic devices.

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The radio signal researchers thought came from Proxima Centauri (pictured) is likely nothing more than a 'false positive'

The signal, picked up in 2020, is likely just an 'an artifact of Earth-based interference from human technologies.' Pictured, a not-to-scale representation of how far away Proxima B is from Earth compared to Voyager 1, the farthest man-made object which was launched in 1977

The researchers scanned the Proxima Centauri star system across a wide range of frequencies, from 700 megahertz to 4 gigahertz

Four million hits that were eventually whittled away to 1 million after looking at hits with no motion

The researchers scanned the Proxima Centauri star system across a wide range of frequencies, from 700 megahertz to 4 gigahertz '(in other words, performing the equivalent of tuning to over 800 million radio channels at a time,' according to a statement) and found 4 million hits that were eventually whittled away to 1 million after looking at hits with no motion.

Another filter was applied for the remaining hits, as they had to appear to come from the direction of Proxima Centauri.

The researchers pointed the Parkes Telescope at the star and then pointed it away, toggling between the 'on-off' pattern several times, which left them with 5,160 possible candidates.

After weeding out more signals, there was one  known as BLC1  that had 'characteristics broadly consistent with hypothesized technosignatures,' but it too is likely just a case of human technology.

'Taken together, this evidence suggests that the signal is interference from human technology, although we were unable to identify its specific source,' Sheikh said in a statement.

After weeding out signals, there was one, known as BLC1 (pictured), that had 'characteristics broadly consistent with hypothesized technosignatures,' but it too is likely just a case of human technology

Proxima Centauri is 4.2 light years from Earth and has two confirmed planets, a gas giant (Proxima c) and a rocky world, known as Proxima b. Artist's rendering of Proxima Centauri system. Proxima c orbits in about 5.2 years around Proxima Centauri and Proxima b, on the left, was discovered in 2016 that orbits in the 'habitable zone' closer than Mercury is to the Sun

Proxima b: The nearest exoplanet to the Earth Proxima b is the nearest exoplanet to the Earth and the closest planet to the star Proxima Centauri. It orbits within the habitable zone of the star - but as Proxima Centauri is a red dwarf and much smaller than the Sun this zone is very close to the star. Proxima b orbits its star every 11.2 Earth days and has a mass of about 1.2 times that of the Earth. The rocky world is subject to solar winds 2,000 times those experienced on Earth from the Sun. While it is within a zone where liquid water could form - these stellar winds make it unlikely life could evolve. The planet was discovered in August 2016 and is likely tidally locked. For these reasons, despite being in the habitable zone, its actual habitability has not been established. Studies have suggested the planet could have surface oceans and a thin atmosphere, but that hasn't been confirmed. Astronomers won't know if it has water or an atmosphere until it can be seen transiting in front of its star - which has yet to happen. If water and an atmosphere are present, even with the extensive radiation, it could be possible life has developed on the planet. Scientists hope the James Webb Space Telescope - due to come online next year - could detect the atmosphere of Proxima Centauri b. There is also a theoretical mission to send a probe to the planet in 2069 to search for biosignatures. Advertisement

'The original signal found by Shane Smith is not obviously detected when the telescope is pointed away from Proxima Centauri  but given a haystack of millions of signals, the most likely explanation is still that it is a transmission from human technology that happens to be "weird" in just the right way to fool our filters.'

The radio wave signal was initially detected in April and May 2019 from the Australia-based Parkes Telescope at a frequency of 980 MHz.

Last year, members of the Breakthrough Listen Project  a $100 million initiative to find alien life through radio telescopes  'carefully investigated' the mysterious signal that emanated from the star system.

The project, founded by Israeli billionaire Yuri Milner, looks for evidence of extraterrestrial 'technosignatures'  radio waves and other evidence of extraterrestrial technology.

Milner launched the initiative in 2015 to look for stray or intentional alien signals and designed to last a decade.

Proxima Centauri is 4.2 light years from Earth and has two confirmed planets, a Jupiter-like gas giant and a rocky world called Proxima b in the habitable zone.

The signal was spotted by the Parkes Telescope in Australia in early 2020, but unlike previous radio bursts, had not been attributed to any Earth-based or near-Earth human-created source at the time.

After the researchers performed their deep dive into the signal, they found that it likely did not come from Proxima Centauri.

'In the case of this particular candidate,' Andrew Siemion, who leads Listen's science team said, adding, 'our analysis suggests that it's highly unlikely that it is really from a transmitter out at Proxima Centauri.

'However, this is undoubtedly one of the most intriguing signals we've seen to date.'

The news is disappointing to some, but the findings may offer hope as experts continue to tweak the process and continue to search for signs of life.

'While we were unable to conclude a genuine technosignature, we are increasingly confident that we have the necessary tools to detect and validate such signatures if they exist,' Breakthrough Initiatives executive director Dr S. Pete Worden said.

The findings have been published in two papers in the scientific journal Nature Astronomy.
Multiple groups of lions at two separate zoos across the U.S. have tested positive for COVID-19, specifically the delta variant, the animal sanctuaries said on Monday.

Eleven African lions at Colorado's Denver Zoo and four from Utah's Hogle Zoo have been observed experiencing symptoms of the virus, including coughing, sneezing and acting lethargic.

The 11 lions at the Denver Zoo, all between the ages of 1 and 9 years old, were tested via nasal swabs at Colorado State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in Fort Collins, and confirmed positive by the United States Department of Agriculture's National Veterinary Services Laboratories.

'There have been a number of big cats to come down with COVID-19 at zoos throughout the country, including our two tigers, Yuri and Nikita,' said Brian Aucone, Senior Vice President for Life Sciences for the Zoo, in a statement.

'Fortunately, the vast majority have fully recovered, and the upside is that there's an established knowledge base for us to draw from to help treat our animals.

'We've been in touch with other zoos that have also recently managed COVID cases in their big cats to inform the care we're providing.'

Multiple prides of lions at separate zoos across the U.S. have tested positive for the delta variant of COVID-19

Eleven African lions at the Denver Zoo tested positive for the virus and were observed experiencing symptoms of the virus, including coughing, sneezing and acting lethargic

The 11 lions at Denver's zoo are between the ages of 1 and 9, but most have recovered

The zoo is home to two lion prides  the first comprised of four 6-year old brothers and the second is comprised of a family group of three males (between the ages of 1 and 5) and four females (between the ages of 1 and 9).

All started showing symptoms after the zoo announced that Yuri and Nikita (part of the family group) tested positive, but 'there is no indication that the two groups of positive cases are connected,' the zoo added.

None of the lions have been vaccinated yet, the Denver zoo said, but they will be  along with the zoo's tigers  once more doses of the animal-specific vaccine is available.

The zoo added it would watch and monitor the lions' behavior and symptoms.

Utah's Hogle Zoo is also dealing with a small outbreak of COVID-19 in its lion population, as four of the zoo's five African lions have tested positive via a nasal swab.

Zoo officials said they did not know how the lions contracted the virus.

'The health and safety of UHZ staff, animals and visitors continues to be our primary concern,' Hogle Zoo wrote in a Facebook post.

'Prior to these positive cases in the lions, UHZ established a stringent animal care COVID-19 safety plan.

'Existing protocols such as increased PPE (personal protective equipment), regulated staff involvement, increased cleaning procedures and staff health monitoring continues to be enforced.'

Four of the five lions at Utah's Hogle Zoo tested positive via a nasal swab. The lions will continue to remain on exhibit for viewers, 'as there is no known risk to the public,' the zoo said

The lions will continue to remain on exhibit for viewers, 'as there is no known risk to the public,' the zoo added in the statement.

'Designed as an open-air environment to best mimic their natural environment in the wild, this allows for a safe distance to view animals.'

The zoo said that no other animals under its care are exhibiting symptoms of infection, but they will remain vigilant about safety.

'We remain extra cautious and vigilant during the pandemic, with a key focus on the safety of staff, guests and animals' said Dr. Nancy Carpenter

The zoo said it will continue to monitor the lions' for worsening symptoms, but presently, they 'continue to do well and are only showing mild signs.'

'We remain hopeful the infection will resolve and they will recover naturally on their own,' said Bob Cisneros, Associate Director of Animal Care.

Cats appear to be 'mildly susceptible' to COVID-19, according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.

However the severity of the disease that causes SARS-CoV-2 is unclear at this time.

In July, a study found that household cats are more susceptible to coronavirus infection than dogs.

There is no evidence that SARS-CoV-2 can be passed from cats to people, but the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that if a feline caretaker is diagnosed with COVID-19, they should quarantine themselves from people and animals.

Last week, a domestic shorthair cat in Michigan's Ingham County became the first pet in the state to test positive for COVID-19.

The cat was sneezing a lot, but has since recovered.

Separately in July, the U.S. Department of Agriculture said that more than half of the white-tailed deer in Michigan were infected with COVID-19, sparking concerns of a large viral reservoir among wild animals.
Hundreds of newly-discovered ancient ceremonial sites in Mexico reveal how the Mayans adopted a mysterious design trait from the older Olmec civilization more than 3,000 years ago, a study shows.

Researchers have revealed that there are 478 ceremonial complexes that can't be seen with the human eye in modern-day southern Mexico, but can be detected with lidar scanning technology.

The hundreds of ceremonial complexes are a combination of Maya and older Olmec sites, according to the study authors.

Originating around 2600 BC, the Maya civilization thrived in Central America for nearly 3,000 years, reaching its height between AD 250 to 900.

The Olmecs, meanwhile, were another Mesoamerican civilization who occupied the land earlier, from around 2,500 to 400 BC.

Interestingly, despite the difference between when the Maya and Olmec structures were built, they share a similar design trait  with a focus on rectangular plazas flanked by platforms along the edges.

Comparison of the San Lorenzo rectangular hallmark (top-left) and MFUs in other structures (with Aguada Fenix top-right

Study author Melina Garcia (front) excavates the central part of Aguada Fenix, the largest and oldest Maya monument ever uncovered. A team of researchers reported on the discovery in 2020. The team has since uncovered nearly 500 smaller ceremonial complexes that are similar in shape and features to Aguada Fenix

WHAT IS LIDAR? Lidar (light detection and ranging) is a remote sensing technology for measuring distances. It does this by emitting a laser at a target and analysing the light that is reflected back with sensors. The tech was developed in the early 1960s and was first used in meteorology to measure clouds by the National Center for Atmospheric Research. Lidar uses ultraviolet, visible, or near infrared light to image objects and can be used with a wide range of targets, including non-metallic objects, rocks, rain, chemical compounds, aerosols, clouds and even single molecules. Advertisement

A team of international researchers led by the University of Arizona reported last year that they had uncovered the largest and oldest Maya monument of the lot.

The site, called Aquada Fenix, is 4,600 feet long and up to 50 feet high, and was built between 800 BC and 1,000 BC.

Now, that same team has announced it's since uncovered smaller ceremonial complexes that are similar in shape and features to Aguada Fenix, to give a total of 478, scattered across the Mexican states of Tabasco and Veracruz.

The complexes were likely constructed between 1100 BC and 400 BC and were built by diverse groups nearly a millennium before the heyday of the Mayas between AD 250 and 950.

'Here, we report the identification of 478 formal rectangular and square complexes, probably dating from 1,050 to 400 BC, through a lidar survey across the Olmec region and the western Maya lowlands,' the research team say in their new paper.

'City plans symbolizing cosmologies have long been recognised as a defining element of Mesoamerican civilisations.

'The origins of formal spatial configurations are thus the key to understanding early civilisations in the region.'

The team used lidar data collected by Mexico's National Institute of Statistics and Geography, which covered a 32,800-square-mile area  about the same size as the whole of Ireland.

Aerial view of excavation efforts at one of the nearly 500 uncovered sites, La Carmelita, in Mexico

AQUADA FENIX Aquada Fenix is a 3,000-year-old Mayan temple that once stood in Mexico. It's the ancient Maya civilisation's oldest and largest monument. The temple site in Tabasco, Mexico, was discovered by international team archaeologists led by the University of Arizona during an expedition in 2017. The site, called Aquada Fenix, is 4,600 feet long and up to 50 feet high, making it larger than the Mayan pyramids and palaces of later periods. It was built between 800 BC and 1,000 BC, according to the team behind the discovery. The team reported their findings in a paper published in Nature in 2020. Advertisement

Publicly available lidar data allows researchers to study huge areas before they follow up with high-resolution lidar to study sites of interest in greater detail.

'It was unthinkable to study an area this large until a few years ago,' said study author Takeshi Inomata from the University of Arizona. 'Publicly available lidar is transforming archaeology.'

Lidar penetrates the tree canopy and reflects three-dimensional forms of archaeological features hidden under vegetation.

The researchers' work suggests that San Lorenzo  the earliest center in the Olmec area  served as a template for later constructions, including Aguada Fenix.

'People always thought San Lorenzo was very unique and different from what came later in terms of site arrangement,' Inomata said.

'But now we show that San Lorenzo is very similar to Aguada Fenix  it has a rectangular plaza flanked by edge platforms.

'Those features become very clear in lidar and are also found at Aguada Fenix, which was built a little bit later.

'This tells us that San Lorenzo is very important for the beginning of some of these ideas that were later used by the Maya.'

Aquada Fenix (depicted here in a lidar scan released in 2020) is 4,600 feet long, up to 50 feet high and was built between 800 BC and 1,000 BC, according to researchers

The sites uncovered by Inomata and his collaborators were likely used as ritual gathering sites, they also believe.

They include large central open spaces where lots of people could gather and participate in rituals.

The researchers also analysed each site's orientation and found that the sites seem to be aligned to the sunrise of a certain date, when possible.

'There are lots of exceptions,' Inomata said. 'For example, not every site has enough space to place the rectangular form in a desired direction, but when they can, they seem to have chosen certain dates.'

While it's not clear why the specific dates were chosen, one possibility is that they may be tied to Zenith passage day.

This is when the sun passes directly overhead, and marks the beginning of the rainy season and the planting of maize.

Inomata stressed that this is just the beginning of the team's work and that there 'are still lots of unanswered questions'.

Nearly 500 ceremonial sites were uncovered using lidar and have been mapped across the study site

Researchers still wonder what the social organisation of the people who built the complexes looked like.

San Lorenzo possibly had rulers, which is suggested by sculptures, but Aguada Fenix didn't, and was likely a pretty egalitarian society.

'We think that people were still somehow mobile, because they had just begun to use ceramics and lived in ephemeral structures on the ground level,' said Inomata.

'People were in transition to more settled lifeways, and many of those areas probably didn't have much hierarchical organisation. But still, they could make this kind of very well-organised centre.'

There's a longstanding debate over whether the Olmec civilization led to the development of the Maya civilization or if the Maya developed independently.

The new finding transforms previous understanding of Mesoamerican civilization origins and the relationship between the Olmec and the Maya people, according to the team, who report their new findings in the journal Nature Human Behaviour.
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A manuscript made from animal skins describes the Cross of Bromholm, which supposedly held a piece from Jesus's cross and was kept at a since-gone monastery in Norfolk, England.

The five-inch-wide prayer roll features stunning designs and artwork, along with imagery and text that show a close connection to Bromholm Priory, a long-abandoned pilgrimage site in northeast Norfolk of which only a few ruins remain.

This monastery, founded in 1113, was said to house a fragment of the cross in which Jesus was crucified, but the priory and wooden relic vanished without a trace.

The manuscript also describes Catholic practices before Henry VIII's break with Rome and the Protestant reformation 500 years ago.

A manuscript made of animal skins describes the Cross of Bromholm, which supposedly held a piece from Jesus's cross and was kept at a now gone monastery in Norfolk

Art historian Gail Turner, the author of a new research, said in a statement: 'It [the manuscript] gives insight into the devotional rituals connected to a large crucifix ('Rood') at Bromholm Priory, in Norfolk, and uncovers a direct link between this 16th century artifact and a famous religious relic once associated among Christians with miracles.'

The prayer roll is not a new discovery, as it made a brief appearance in the 1960s and 1970s, but Turner is the first to try to decipher the text and imagery.

Through the analysis, she concluded a prosperous pilgrim was the owner of the manuscript that was fashioned from two pieces of vellum (animal skins) stitched together.

'The roll reflects a time when the laity (non-clergy) had a real belief in both visible and invisible enemies,' said Turner.

This was a monastery, founded in 1113, was said to house a fragment of the cross in which Jesus was crucified, but the priory and wooden relic vanished without a trace

'For their owners, prayer rollswere prized as very personal inspirations to prayer, although during the Reformation and after they were commonly undervalued and dismissed.

'The survival of such a magnificent roll for over 500 years is therefore remarkable.'

There are also signs of abrasion throughout the roll that coincide with the idea that worshippers regularly touched or kissed images of Jesus on the cross in an attempt, according to Turner, 'to experience Christ's Passion more directly and powerfully'.

'Indeed, the historian reveals abrasion marks are visible on the Bromholm roll where the owner has engaged in such a 'devotional act identified in other similar rolls.'

Other images of the roll include three nails stabbing through a heart, with hands to the side that also have stab wounds on the palm. The manuscript also describes Catholic practices before Henry VIII's break with Rome and the Protestant reformation 500 years ago

Other images of the roll include three nails stabbing through a heart, with hands to the side that also have stab wounds on the palms.

'The ends of the nails are red, as if with blood, and are painted against a background of a green 'hill', presumably Golgoth, Turner wrote in the study published in the British Archaeological Association.

'As in the Coverham roll mentioned above, the Crown of Thorns (stylized and not to scale) is interwoven with the nails, and here encompasses images of the Five Wounds of Christ  hands, feet and side/heart, all of which drip blood.'

Today, the priory stands in ruins in a field near the village of Bacto and the study suggests the Rood of Bromholm may be located in London - according to a letter written in 1537 to Thomas Cromwell by Sir Richard Southwell, a courtier from Norfolk.

Bromholm Priory is said to have acquired the wooden relic from an English chaplain who fled the sack of Constantinople in 1204.
Zinedine Zidane and Antonio Conte are both in the race to replace under-pressure Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer but the club are also reportedly considering Brendan Rodgers and Erik ten Hag.

The Red Devils are in disarray after a 5-0 mauling at the hands of fierce rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday compounded a poor start to the season with Solskjaer fearing his time in charge may be coming to an end.

And according to The Sun, the club have drawn up a four-man shortlist of potential successors including the out-of-work pair, as well as Leicester's Rodgers and Ajax's Ten Hag.

Zinedine Zidane is reportedly one of two leading the way to take over at Manchester United

Ex-Chelsea and Inter Milan manager Antonio Conte is understood to be the other contender

United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is under pressure after a woeful 5-0 loss against Liverpool

United are understood to be keen to sound out ex-Real Madrid manager Zidane and former Chelsea boss Conte and gauge their interest in taking over.

Club chiefs are said to have told a prominent agent to get in contact with several leading managerial names to discern their contract demands and vision for United if they took over.

Although the Red Devils remain reluctant to sack Solskjaer, having handed him a three-year contract extension in July, the Liverpool capitulation was probably the nadir of his reign and could force the club's hand.

Following a day of deafening silence at United, sources emerged to offer Solskjaer lukewarm support on Monday night more than 24 hours after the humiliating defeat.

Earlier, chairmen Joel and Avram Glazer held crisis talks with executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and managing director Richard Arnold as the shock of losing so pathetically to their bitter rivals continued to reverberate around the club.

Meanwhile, Solskjaer spent two-and-a-half hours at the training ground around lunchtime after giving his squad and coaching staff the day off.

Brendan Rodgers (left) and Erik ten Hag (right) are also said to make up the four-man shortlist

A vast and immediate improvement in performances and results may extend his stay of execution, but after another lavish summer of spending to bring in Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane expectations are understandably higher.

It remains to be seen whether Rodgers' links with Liverpool would affect his chances of landing the United job but he has impressed with Leicester since taking over in 2019.

He has introduced a free-flowing style of play and almost eclipsed several bigger names to qualify for the Champions League two seasons running, only to narrowly miss out twice.

Rodgers did manage to win last season's FA Cup and the Community Shield at the start of the current campaign but ruled himself out of the running to take over at Newcastle last week.

Conte, who is available after leaving Inter Milan earlier this summer, won the Premier League with Chelsea in 2016-17 and retains a reputation as a bonafide winner.

Meanwhile, Zidane secured a record three consecutive Champions League titles with Real Madrid but left the Bernabeu in May.

Chairmen Joel (right) and Avram (left) Glazer held crisis talks with the club's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward and managing director Richard Arnold on Monday

Ten Hag has won nearly three-quarters of his 181 matches in charge of Ajax since joining from Utrecht in December 2017.

He masterminded their unlikely run to the Champions League semi-finals in 2019 - where they were narrowly beaten by Tottenham - and has a reputation for playing eye-catching football with young players.

The Dutchman has won two Eredivisie titles but it remains to be seen if he has the pedigree United would look for if they are to change manager.

It emerged on Monday that senior United players are now questioning Solskjaers tactics and leadership over concerns that he lacks the experience to get himself out of trouble and is too soft on them.

It is not the first time the 48-year-old has faced an uncertain future since he returned to the club in December 2018. Whereas United have previously offered Solskjaer unequivocal backing, however, the message on Monday night was less emphatic.

Sources stressed the need to pull together and move on from Sundays embarrassment, adding that there is nothing to say Solskjaer wont still be in charge when United visit Tottenham on Saturday.
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Amazing video footage has been released showing the world's largest cruise ship  Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas  completing her sea trials.

And it has been announced that the 1,188ft- (362m) long behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe next year, sailing from her home in Fort Lauderdale to the Caribbean on March 4, 2022, before making her way to Barcelona and Rome 'to kick start the summer holidays in May'.

The sea-trial footage shows Wonder of the Seas being towed out of the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, where she was built - then being put through her paces on the open seas.

Amazing video footage has been released showing the world's largest cruise ship  Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas  completing her sea trials

Over four days she covered 1,550 nautical miles (about half the distance from London to New York) and was 'pushed to the limit on propulsion', hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph).

More than 40 sea acceptance tests were completed, along with 'plenty of inspections'.

Around 500 workers were involved in the trials, the completion of which marks a significant milestone for Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's fifth Oasis Class ship.

Next May, Wonder of the Seas will head to the Mediterranean for seven-night cruises from Barcelona and Rome that will take in destinations such as Palma de Mallorca and Capri, Italy.

It has been announced that the 1,188ft- (362m) long behemoth will debut in the U.S and Europe next year

During the sea trials Wonder of the Seas covered 1,550 nautical miles (about half the distance from London to New York) and was 'pushed to the limit on propulsion', hitting speeds of up to 24 knots (27mph)

Royal Caribbean promises that families and holidaymakers alike 'will have a new wave of possibilities across Wonder's eight distinct neighbourhoods, an Oasis Class first'. These include 'all-new features such as the Suite Neighborhood  which offers Royal Suite Class guests an elevated "Suite Sun Deck", complete with a plunge pool, bar and plenty of loungers and nooks to kick back in - a cantilevered pool bar named The Vue, and Wonder Playscape  an interactive, open-air kids' play area with awe-inspiring views'.

It adds: 'With returning favourites also on deck, like The Ultimate Abyss, the tallest slide at sea; Central Park, the neighbourhood filled with real plants from end to end; and the vibrant Caribbean-inspired pool deck experience, the innovative, new ship invites adventurers of all ages to reimagine, explore and make memories once again.'

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said: 'The momentum taking off across bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is significant. With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we're seeing. These regions are in the position to welcome a brand-new, innovative ship like Wonder of the Seas.

Around 500 workers were involved in the sea trials, the completion of which marks a significant milestone for Wonder of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's fifth Oasis Class ship

Royal Caribbean promises that families and holidaymakers alike 'will have a new wave of possibilities across Wonder's eight distinct neighbourhoods'

Wonder of the Seas is 210ft (64m) wide, can accommodate 6,988 guests across 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 guest elevators, will have 2,300 crew members and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph)

Michael Bayley, president and CEO, Royal Caribbean International, said: 'The momentum taking off across bookings and our returning ships in the U.S. and Europe is significant. With half of our fleet sailing again, we are encouraged by what we're seeing'

'Wonder will shine bright as the world's newest wonder in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. And what's in store is the ultimate vacation experience that highlights the very best of Royal Caribbean, reimagines renowned favourites and introduces new adventures every guest, no matter their age, can enjoy.'

Wonder of the Seas is 210ft (64m) wide, can accommodate 6,988 guests across 16 of her 18 decks, has 24 guest elevators, will have 2,300 crew members and can cruise at 22 knots (25mph).

Wonder's Caribbean itineraries are available to book today on Royal Caribbean's website. The new ship's European sailings will open on Wednesday, September 22.
Supermodel Elle Macpherson sparked controversy over the weekend after she claimed to have 'Aborigine' ancestry while filming a beauty tutorial.

The 57-year-old has since clarified she didn't mean to upset anyone with the remark.

In a series of leaked Instagram DMs obtained by Daily Mail Australia, she told Indigenous influencer Tahlia Warren-Brand: 'I never meant to be offensive.'

Regrets: Supermodel Elle Macpherson has said she 'never meant to be offensive' when she bizarrely claimed to have 'Aborigine' eyes in a now-deleted beauty tutorial

They struck up a conversation after Tahlia shared a screenshot of a news article about Elle's video, in which she claimed to have 'Aborigine' eyes and implied she had some Indigenous ancestry because she is 'seven generations Australian'.

'Good morning/afternoon to everyone except @ellemacpherson,' Tahlia wrote alongside the article.

Much to her surprise, Elle responded: 'You are such a beautiful girl!'

Tahlia replied that her Instagram post was actually criticising Elle, writing: 'I said everyone EXCEPT you...'

Private exchange: In a series of leaked Instagram DMs obtained by Daily Mail Australia, Elle told Indigenous influencer Tahlia Warren-Brand: 'I never meant to be offensive'

'I saw - and there's no mistake in my text - Your images on IG are beautiful,' Elle said, to which Tahlia replied sarcastically: 'It's the Aboriginal in me.'

Later in the exchange, Elle acknowledged her comment about 'Aborigine' eyes was offensive, but did not apologise.

'I never meant to be offensive...' she wrote, before Tahlia hit back: 'Regardless it still was and is offensive.'

The supermodel signed off: 'I hear you and respect you.'

She said what? As reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, Elle had stated in a beauty tutorial for Vogue: 'My eyes are almost black; that's the Aborigine in me'

Edits: The video was later edited to remove those remarks when Elle was asked to clarify whether she was claiming to be Indigenous, or regretted using the term 'Aborigine'

Tahlia is an ambassador for Aboriginal-owned clothing label The Minority Co.

As reported by The Sydney Morning Herald, Elle had stated in a beauty tutorial for Vogue: 'My eyes are almost black; that's the Aborigine in me.'

'Being seven generations Australian, they don't reflect light the same way blue eyes do,' she reportedly added.

The video was later edited to remove those remarks when Elle was asked to clarify whether she was claiming to be Indigenous, or regretted using the term 'Aborigine'.

Family: Elle's (left) younger sister Mimi (centre) has since clarified, 'We are not Indigenous nor have we traced our ancestry.' Pictured with their mother Frances MacPherson (right) in 2002

Elle's younger sister Mimi has since clarified: 'We are not Indigenous nor have we traced our ancestry.'

Born in Australia, Elle is the daughter of entrepreneur and sound engineer Peter Gow and nurse Frances Gow.

Her parents divorced when she was 10, and she later adopted the surname of her stepfather Neil Macpherson.

Childhood: Elle's parents divorced when she was 10, and she later adopted the surname of her stepfather Neil Macpherson. Pictured: Elle and her mother Frances in 2006
Anne Heche says her romance with Ellen DeGeneres led her to be blacklisted professionally, declaring herself 'patient zero in Cancel Culture.'

The actress, 52, chat Monday with Page Six about what she felt were professional ramifications she faced being in a same-sex relationship from 1997 to 2000 with DeGeneres, 63.

Heche, a native of Aurora, Ohio, said that she 'didnt do a studio picture for ten years' in the wake of the relationship, which went public after they emerged as a couple to the premiere of her movie Volcano in 1997.

The latest: Anne Heche, 52, says her romance with Ellen DeGeneres led her to be blacklisted professionally, declaring herself 'patient zero in cancel culture.' She was snapped last year in LA

'I was fired from a $10 million picture deal and did not see the light of day in a studio picture,' Heche said.

Heche said that the 'repercussions that happened' to her also helped create 'a part of the change' that has seen greater inclusion of the LGBTQ community.

'Im a part of it,' she said. 'It is a badge of honor.'

Heche recalled about how she was slated to be in the romantic comedy Six Days, Seven Nights with Harrison Ford, but after her relationship with Ellen became public, she felt unwanted by the studio and had been informed that she was out of the running for the role.

Degeneres and Heche, seen at the 1998 Golden Globe Awards in LA, dated from 1997-2000

Heche noted how her relationship with DeGeneres 'wasnt a long-term love affair;' the two were snapped in 2000

She said Ford, 79, was supportive of her during the tumultuous time.

'He said, "Frankly my dear, I dont give a damn who youre sleeping with. We have a romantic comedy to make. Lets make it the best one thats ever happened."'

She called the Hollywood staple her 'hero' for standing behind her 'at such a time when the force of what I was standing up for could have been toppled.'

Heche noted how her relationship with DeGeneres 'wasnt a long-term love affair.

'This was a moment in my life when I was given the glory of being able to stand up for what I believe in and have since I was a kid,' she said.

Heche can be seen in the forthcoming film 13 Minutes, which is set to open in theaters Friday and on digital platforms November 19.
Real Housewives of Melbourne star Jackie Gillies has revealed one of the hardest things about being a new mother is breastfeeding.

The reality star, 41, who welcomed twins earlier this month after undergoing IVF, made the admission on her podcast Shine It Up this week.

'Breastfeeding is one of the hardest things ever,' said Jackie, who is clearly smitten with her newborns.

Motherhood: Real Housewives of Melbourne star Jackie Gillies, who welcomed twins earlier this month, has revealed one of the hardest things about being a new mother is breastfeeding

Jackie also revealed she finds it difficult to shower and move around after having a C-section, and needs her husband Ben Gillies to help her.

She then spoke of her 'unconditional love' for her two babies, who have brought her so much joy.

'I just kept thinking these babies are so cute,' she said. 'Are they actually mine?'

Twinning! 'Breastfeeding is one of the hardest things ever,' Jackie said on her podcast

The psychic said she'd freaked out with anxiety the night before going to hospital.

'All these thoughts were running though my mind,' she said.

'I was thinking, "This is it? How is this going to impact our lives?"'

Last-minute nerves: The psychic freaked out with anxiety the night before going to hospital

Parents: Jackie and husband Ben Gillies (left), the former drummer for rock band Silverchair, married in 2010 and announced they were expecting in May

Elsewhere, Jackie revealed she had suffered a miscarriage in the past, which is why she was so private about her IVF journey.

The celebrity fortune teller took to Instagram earlier this month to share the happy news of the twins' birth, sharing a photo of the babies' feet.

'They're here. OMG they are so cute. My heart is full,' she wrote in the caption.

Jackie and Ben, the former drummer for rock band Silverchair, married in 2010 and announced they were expecting in May.
Jacinta 'Jay' Lal was sent packing on The Bachelor this year after Jimmy Nicholson accused her of only being on the show for fame.

But it appears the 31-year-old nutritionist is having the last laugh as she was spotted celebrating her newfound freedom - and Instagram blue tick - in Sydney on Sunday.

Glamorous Jay was pictured walking arm in arm with her co-star Elena Wee as she left the East Village pub.

Lockdown is over! The Bachelor stars Elena Wee (left) and Jacinta 'Jay' Lal (right) hit the town to celebrate their newfound freedom on Sunday, after failing to find love with Jimmy Nicholson

The pair appeared to be in good spirits during their first outing since appearing on the Channel 10 dating show - and since the end of Covid lockdown.

Jay, who hails from New Zealand, showed off her incredible physique in a midriff- baring blue dress.

Suitably glammed up for the outing, she turned heads with a full face of makeup.

Party time: The pair appeared to be in good spirits during their first outing since appearing on the Channel 10 dating show - and since the end of Covid lockdown

Stylish: Jay (right), who hails from New Zealand, showed off her incredible physique in a midriff- baring blue dress

Jay, who placed fourth on The Bachelor, wore her caramel-coloured locks loosely and tucked behind her ear.

She completed her look with strappy heels, a fedora and a Givenchy Bambi clutch.

Elena, 33, set pulses racing in a burnt orange slip dress which she teamed with a pair of towering high heels.

Dolls: Suitably glammed up for the outing, she turned heads with a full face of makeup

Stunning: Elena, 33, set pulses racing in a burnt orange slip dress which she teamed with a pair of towering high heels

The Bondi-based personal trainer was also dolled up for the evening, sporting a flawless makeup palette.

She styled her look with a black clutch and white nails.

Jay and Elena later reunited with their Sydney-based co-stars Annabelle O'Regan, Hannah Norman, Tamlyn Hoskins, Chanel Tang and Rebekah Modernel.

Gang's all here! Jay and Elena later reunited with their Sydney-based co-stars Annabelle O'Regan, Hannah Norman, Tamlyn Hoskins, Chanel Tang and Rebekah Modernel

New friends: Sharing a photo of the group to Instagram, Jay wrote: 'I went on The Bachelor to come "runner up" and "bag myself another" but unfortunately I made friends with this lot instead I guess that'll have to do. Such a good night. Love these girls'

Sharing a photo of the group to Instagram, Jay wrote: 'I went on The Bachelor to come "runner up" and "bag myself another" but unfortunately I made friends with this lot instead I guess that'll have to do. Such a good night. Love these girls.'

During her time on the reality show, Jay faced persistent rumours she only signed up to boost her public profile, something she vehemently denied.

'I just wouldn't put myself through that situation for 1,000 followers or a blue tick on Instagram. It is not worth it,' she said.

'I went on that show hoping to find love and unfortunately I didn't find love, but I did have a great experience and I don't regret it.'

Scrutiny: During her time on The Bachelor, Jay faced persistent rumours she only signed up to boost her public profile, something she vehemently denied. Pictured with Jimmy Nicholson

Jay said she was 'offended' that people believed she only went on the show for fame and asserted that her connection with Jimmy was 'genuine'.

After leaving the mansion, Jay broke down in tears as she admitted she didn't know 'where it all went wrong'.

'I don't know what went wrong. I always just felt like it was okay. Everything was good and easy, and I didn't have to try, but maybe I should have,' she said.

Denial: Jay said she was 'offended' that people believed she only went on the show for fame and asserted that her connection with Jimmy was 'genuine'
Amanda Seyfried has recounted how a health condition 'added an extra level of trauma' when she gave birth to her second child last year.

'I had something that went wrong with my second birth,' the Mean Girls actress, 35, told People. 'The baby was okay but it was tricky and it was painful and it didn't have to happen, and it did so it added an extra level of trauma.'

Seyfried, who was suffering from a spinal issue, also described raising a young family on top of her health condition.

'It was painful': Amanda Seyfried has recounted how a health condition 'added an extra level of trauma' when she gave birth to her second child last year

'You just do. At that point, I'm very freshly out of the hospital, I had to feed him, my husband was with my daughter and I had people that could drive me back to the hospital,' she told the site.

Fortunately, nowadays Seyfried is doing well.

'I'm okay. It was a very physical thing and it was a spinal thing, but I'm okay,' she said.

Seyfried currently stars as a bestselling children's novel grappling with postpartum depression in the upcoming drama A Mouthful Of Air.

Oh baby! Seyfried shared a throwback snap of herself pregnant with her son in September 2021

But in real life, Seyfried truly feared she would suffer from the condition following both of her pregnancies.

She credited therapy and medication with helping her avoid the ailment.

'I was terrified of suffering from postpartum depression. I ended up doing a lot of CBT therapy before I had my first kid and then I was really lucky, I didn't suffer from any depression and I felt like I had won in some way,' she said.

'It was hard, and it was so hard, the struggle, but it wasn't anything I didn't think I could handle. And with my second kid, that's partly because I was on my medication and I never got off of it.'

Family matters: Seyfried and her husband Thomas Sadoski, 45, share a one-year-old son and daughter Nina, four, together; pictured 2019

Seyfried and her husband Thomas Sadoski, 45, share a one-year-old son and daughter Nina, four, together.

The couple, who married in 2017, announced the birth of their second child on social media through the International Network for Aid, Relief and Assistance and War Child USA, two organizations dedicated to the protection and care of children in war.

'We are so happy to join with INARA to be the first to announce that our ambassadors Amanda Seyfried and Thomas Sadoski welcomed their second child into this world,' the War Child USA account shared.

'Since the birth of our daughter 3 years ago our commitment to the innocent children that are so brutally affected by conflict and war has been a driving force in our lives. With the birth of our son the work of INARA and War Child has become our North Star,' they said in a statement.
Bindi Irwin and her husband Chandler Powel are celebrating seven blissful months with their baby daughter Grace Warrior.

To mark the occasion, the daughter of late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, shared a series of playful photos on Instagram titled 'Expectation vs. Reality.

'Grace Warrior is 7 months old! She loves snuggles, adventure, trying new food, grabbing everything and giggles. Apparently koalas are especially funny. Infinite love for our little Wildlife Warrior,' the smitten mum captioned her post.

Happy birthday! Bindi Irwin and her husband Chandler Powel are celebrating seven blissful months with their baby daughter Grace Warrior

Meanwhile, in a follow-up post, Bindi, 23, shared images of her little one planting a kiss on her.

'Grace kisses. A series My beautiful angel, I cherish being your mama,' she wrote.

Last month, Bindi gave fans a glimpse as her daughter's cheeky side by sharing images of her little pulling funny faces.

In the images, the sweet tot stuck out her tongue and struck a cheeky pose as she held a stuffed bunny toy.

Meanwhile, Bindi's mother Terri, 57, uploaded a photo of Bindi, 23, looking exhausted while posing with Grace.

Appearing bleary-eyed, Bindi smiled gently as she sat in a dimly-lit room with her beaming baby perched on her lap.

Cute! To mark the occasion, the daughter of late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin, shared a series of playful photos on Instagram titled 'Expectation vs. Reality

Baby love: Last month, Bindi gave fans a glimpse as her daughter's cheeky side by sharing images of her little pulling funny faces

Terri, who became a first-time grandmother when Bindi welcomed Grace in March, accompanied the intimate photo with a heartfelt message to her daughter.

'Bindi, you are a beautiful mama. Grace is so blessed to have all your love,' the widow of the late Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin wrote.

'Always. Even when she wakes up at 2am. Again,' she mused.

Responding to her mother's post with a Tweet of her own, Bindi wrote: 'Thank you so much. I hope to be even half the extraordinary mama you are [love heart emoji]. I love you so much'.

In September, Bindi and her husband Chandler, 24, celebrated their daughter turning six months old.

She shared a gallery of photos to Instagram of Grace sitting in a field while holding a wooden panel with 'six months' engraved on it.

Little Grace Warrior arrived in March this year.

Bindi and Chandler, a former professional wakeboarder, welcomed their daughter on March 25, which coincidentally was their one-year wedding anniversary.

Family: The conservationist welcomed her first child with her husband Chandler Powell in March
Julia Roberts is settling into quarantine life after jetting into Australia on Saturday to shoot her new movie Ticket to Paradise with George Clooney.

The Hollywood actress, 53, will be spending the next two weeks at a $56.9million mansion in Vaucluse, one of Sydney's most exclusive suburbs.

She was pictured on Sunday drinking coffee in her pyjamas on the balcony of the palatial home, while joined by members of her entourage.

Home for the next 14 days! Julia Roberts (left, with a staff member) is settling into quarantine life after jetting into Australia to shoot her new movie Ticket to Paradise with George Clooney

The Notting Hill star, who is due to travel to Queensland once she has completed her mandatory 14-day quarantine, kept things casual in a beige loungewear set.

She paired a long button-up shirt with matching pants.

The Oscar winner styled her long brunette hair loosely and drew attention to her ageless features by going makeup free.

Quarantine: The Hollywood actress, 53, will be spending the next two weeks at a $56.9million mansion in Vaucluse, one of Sydney's most exclusive suburbs

Stylish: Julia, who is due to travel to Queensland once she has completed her mandatory 14-day quarantine, kept things casual in a beige loungewear set. Pictured with her entourage

Nice digs: She was pictured on Sunday drinking coffee in her pyjamas on the balcony of the palatial home, while joined by members of her entourage

Laid-back: She paired a long button-up shirt with matching pants

Sporting a pair of spectacles, she clutched a white mug while chatting to her staff on the steps of the mansion, which overlooks Sydney Harbour.

Julia was later seen walking around the grounds of the property.

She is living at the former rental home of Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch, the son and daughter-in-law of Australian-born media mogul Rupert Murdoch.

Relaxed: Sporting a pair of spectacles, she clutched a white mug while chatting to her staff on the steps of the mansion, which overlooks Sydney Harbour

Downtime: She is living at the former rental home of Lachlan and Sarah Murdoch, the son and daughter-in-law of Australian-born media mogul Rupert Murdoch

That's some digs! The 4,100 sqm four-bedroom mansion is heritage listed and comes with a swimming pool and cabana

The 4,100 sqm four-bedroom mansion is heritage listed and comes with a swimming pool and cabana.

In addition to its exclusive waterfront position with private access to the beach, there is also a jetty and boatshed.

It sold in 2008 for a national record sale - at the time - of $45million but is now estimated to be worth $56.9million.

Privacy arrangements have been made for Julia's stay, with a large black screen being erected on the waterfront side of the home.

Features: In addition to its exclusive waterfront position with private access to the beach, there is also a jetty and boatshed

A-lister life: Privacy arrangements have been made for Julia's stay, with a large black screen being erected on the waterfront side of the home

Measures: The home is being patrolled by around-the-clock armed guards, while multiple chefs, waiters and housekeepers are staying with Julia as part of her travel bubble

The home is being patrolled by around-the-clock armed guards, while multiple chefs, waiters and housekeepers are staying with Julia as part of her travel bubble.

International visitors to Australia must spend two weeks in quarantine due to coronavirus restrictions.

Julia is in the country to film rom-com Ticket to Paradise with George Clooney.

Strict: Visitors to Australia must spend two-weeks in quarantine due to coronavirus restrictions

Ready to go: The shoot is scheduled for two months from mid-November, with locations on the Gold Coast and Brisbane

The shoot is scheduled for two months from mid-November, with locations on the Gold Coast and Brisbane.

The project received a $6.4million grant from the federal government's Location Incentive Program.

George and Julia play a divorced couple who travel to Bali in a desperate bid to stop their daughter, played by Kaitlyn Dever, from getting married.

The movie will be filmed entirely in Queensland, with the picturesque Whitsundays doubling for Bali.
Bruno Tonioli will reportedly not be taking part in this year's Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special and will be replaced by Anton Du Beke as speculation grows Anton will replace him on the show permanently.

According to The Sun, Bruno, 65, is planning on remaining in America where he has been judging the US version of Strictly, Dancing With The Stars.

The dancer will be staying put despite trans-Atlantic Covid travel restrictions being lifted in November when the special is filmed.

Absent: Bruno Tonioli will reportedly not be taking part in this year's Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special and will be replaced by Anton Du Beke

A source claimed the decision will only fuel speculation that Bruno will not be returning as a judge on Strictly next year and will be replaced by Anton for good.

They said: 'The reaction to the former pro being on the panel has been totally positive  with most viewers apparently forgetting a time when he wasn't a full-time judge.

'There is still a huge amount of love and affection for Bruno, and fans would love to see him return. But they will be wondering why it won't be on the Christmas show, as that was the expectation.

'This can only fuel further speculation that Bruno may not be returning next year and that Anton has seamlessly taken his place.'

Panel: A source claimed the decision will only fuel speculation that Bruno will not be returning as a judge on Strictly next year and will be replaced by Anton for good

MailOnline has contacted representatives of Bruno Tonioli and Strictly Come Dancing for comment.

Bruno has missed the last two series of the BBC show as Covid travel restrictions meant he could not fly back to the UK to film.

However, he will be part of the judging panel for the Strictly arena tour in January while Anton embarks on his Anton & Erin Showtime UK dance tour with former Strictly pro Erin Boag.

As the current Dancing With The Stars finishes in December, Bruno plans to move back to the UK in the New Year so he can star on the live tour  which was postponed this year due to the pandemic.

Craig Revel Horwood, 56, who also directs the show, said: 'I'm delighted to be back directing and judging the 2022 tour.

Travel: The dancer will be staying put despite trans-Atlantic Covid travel restrictions being lifted in November when the special is filmed

A source said: 'There is still a huge amount of love and affection for Bruno, and fans would love to see him return. But they will be wondering why it won't be on the Christmas show, as that was the expectation'

'Next year is going to be bigger and better than ever before. With Bruno coming back to join us on the judging panel, this tour will be just fab-u-lous.'

It comes after it was claimed in September that Anton may have to relinquish his place on the judging panel if Bruno does decide to return.

An insider told The Sun: 'Anton is loving his stint as a judge and producers are delighted with the job he's been doing standing in for Bruno. That said Bruno is a one-off and everybody expects to see him back. Producers will then have a tough choice to make.

'If in a year's time Bruno comes back and Anton is invited to return as a dancer he would do it but it would definitely feel a bit weird for him.

'Once you've been a judge and decided who stays and goes it is very tricky to make that step back into the competition and take part against all the other dancers. Anton's a professional so would make the best of the situation but it wouldn't be an easy transition.'
Abbie Chatfield has shared a hilarious response to recent comments by right-wing American journalist Candace Owens about Australia's Covid lockdowns.

In a recent episode of her Daily Wire show, Candace compared the lockdowns to a 'totalitarian regime' and suggested the U.S. should 'invade' to liberate Aussie citizens.

Abbie, who is an outspoken advocate for the Covid vaccine, couldn't resist poking fun at Candace's remarks on Sunday, posting a video on TikTok of herself dancing at a rooftop party while the conservative pundit's speech played in the background.

'Help us': Abbie Chatfield (left) has shared a hilarious response to recent comments by right-wing American commentator Candace Owens (right) about Australia's Covid lockdowns

The video was filmed in Sydney two weeks after the city's lockdown was lifted due to high vaccination rates and low Covid transmissions.

'Australia currently, make no mistake, is a tyrannical police state,' Candace said as the 26-year-old strutted towards the camera in a leopard-print mini dress.

Abbie then squatted down to the ground and poured a can of soda over her head as her friends cheered in the background.

Overboard: In a recent episode of her Daily Wire show, Candace compared the lockdowns to a 'totalitarian regime' and suggested the U.S. should 'invade' to liberate Aussie citizens

Strutting into freedom: Abbie, who is an outspoken advocate for the Covid vaccine, couldn't resist poking fun at Candace's remarks on Sunday, posting a video on TikTok of herself dancing at a rooftop party while the conservative pundit's speech played in the background

Can't lock down these curves! 'Australia currently, make no mistake, is a tyrannical police state,' Candace said as Abbie strutted towards the camera in a leopard-print mini dress, before squatting down and pouring a can of ice-cold soda on herself

Candace's voice continued: 'The citizens are quite literally being imprisoned.'

Abbie sarcastically captioned the post: 'HELP US #candaceowens #saveaustralia.'

She also re-posted the same video to her Instagram account, this time jokingly quoting Candace's own words in the caption: 'MAKE NO MISTAKE.'

What restrictions? In another TikTok video, Abbie shared footage of herself dancing provocatively and laughing with friends at the wild party, using the same audio clip of Candace's voice in the background

In another TikTok video on Sunday, Abbie shared footage of herself dancing provocatively and laughing with friends at the wild party, using the same audio clip of Candace's voice in the background.

'So true :( help us!!!!! #saveaustralia,' she wrote in the caption.

In her Daily Wire broadcast, Candace described Australian restrictions as 'federal overreach, tyranny, totalitarianism. The kind that gives birth to dictatorships.'

Tongue in cheek: 'So true :( help us!!!!! #saveaustralia,' Abbie wrote in the caption

She then wondered whether America should 'invade Australia' to liberate its citizens, before clarifying: 'Of course, I ask that in jest.'

The particular restrictions that sparked concern for Candace included QR code check-ins and rules against dancing at nightclubs or functions.

Her statements about Australia's 'invasion' came after NSW's lockdown was lifted on October 11 due to the vaccination rate reaching 70 per cent.

Melbourne's lockdown was lifted on October 21, after the state of Victoria reached the same double-jab milestone.

America has had over 733,000 Covid deaths and more than 45 million cases.
They're not afraid to show off their sensational figures.

And Love Island twins Jess and Eve Gale didn't disappoint with their latest figure-hugging ensembles as they stepped out for a night out in London on Monday night.

Jess sizzled in a plunging black leather jumpsuit, which boosted her ample assets as she hit up Tape nightclub.

Wow! Love Island twins Jess (right) and Eve Gale (left) didn't disappoint with their latest figure-hugging ensembles as they stepped out for a night out in London on Monday night

She wore her sunshine blonde locks straight so that they they neatly fell down her shoulders, while she wore a palette of dewy makeup.

The reality star carried her essentials in a nude medium-sized handbag, while she stepped out in clear heeled sandals.

Her sibling Eve, meanwhile, dared to bare all in a black mesh 'Whatever' bodysuit, which flashed her ample bust and pert curves.

Beauty: Jess sizzled in a plunging black leather jumpsuit, which boosted her ample assets as she hit up Tape nightclub

Daring! Her sibling Eve, meanwhile, dared to bare all in a black mesh bodysuit, which flashed her ample bust and pert curves

The form-fitting see-through ensemble showed off her sizzling physique.

On her feet she modelled a pair of clear perspex court heels which boasted gold chain details at the ankles.

The beauty wore her bright highlighted locks into a low messy bun while she modelled a full-face of glamorous makeup.

The stunning sisters rose to fame on the 2020 winter series of the ITV2 show, however they failed to find love with Jess splitting from Ched Uzor after the series finished.

Incredible: The form-fitting see-through ensemble showed off her sizzling physique

The pair faced a bit of backlash when they jetted to Dubai in December, due to the Covid pandemic.

They joined many other Love Islanders including Joanna Chimonides, Hayley Hughes and Francesca Allen.

After Dubai joined UK's travel ban list, celebrities then began flocking to Mexico's bars and beaches as it established itself as the next COVID getaway destination.

Many stars insisted their trips were for 'work purposes' after criticism from the Home Secretary Priti Patel.
Sacha Baron Cohen rushed to his wife Isla Fisher's side at St Vincent's Hospital last week after she injured her leg.

But the British comedian, 50, was in a far more relaxed mood on Sunday as he went for an ocean swim in Sydney with a friend.

The Borat star, who has been living in Australia for almost a year, enjoyed some light exercise while Isla, 45, recovered at home.

Like the locals: Comedian Sacha Baron Cohen went for an ocean swim in Sydney on Sunday

Sacha wore a pair of black boardshorts, and accessorised with a white gold watch.

After going for a dip, he picked up his beach towel from a rock and changed into a pair of beige chinos, a denim shirt and a fedora.

He had an animated conversation with a pal while walking back to the car.

Easygoing: After going for a dip, he picked up his beach towel from a rock and changed into a pair of beige chinos, a denim shirt and a fedora

Chatting: He had an animated conversation with a pal while walking back to the car

Isla didn't join him for the beach trip, likely because of her recent injury.

Sacha was last week seen racing to bring his wife her crutches as she limped out of St Vincent's Hospital.

She had just attended a doctor's appointment after suffering a mystery injury.

Hobbling along: Sacha rushed to his wife Isla Fisher's side at St Vincent's Hospital last week after she injured her leg

The Wedding Crashers star later exited the building wearing a black foot brace.

The Hollywood couple recently returned to Sydney following a sojourn in Isla's home city of Perth.

Reports surfaced last month they were looking to permentantly settle in WA, after previously laying down roots in NSW.
The Outlaws

Rating:

The Long Call

Rating:

Every comedy thriller has to make up its mind in the end. The chief aim is either to make us laugh or gasp. It can't do both equally.

The Outlaws (BBC1), a six-part series about people atoning for petty crime with community service, hasn't decided what to be.

One minute Eleanor Tomlinson, as social media celebrity Gaby, is taking selfies while Christian and John (Gamba Cole and Darren Boyd) brawl over a spliff. The next, nervous A-level student and shoplifter Rani (Rhianne Barreto) is hiding a gun for her boyfriend and outwitting a gang of drug dealers armed with machetes.

Hard-edged TV dramas about drugs crime can come laced with lethal jokes  Breaking Bad proved that. And goofy sitcoms can feature Hollywood-style action sequences, as James Corden showed in The Wrong Mans.

There's the basis of a really good serial in The Outlaws, writes Christopher Stevens

But those shows both knew exactly what they wanted to do. Stephen Merchant, who writes and stars in The Outlaws, flip-flops between the two. When he's on screen, Merchant  as nerdy Greg  is definitely playing it for laughs, and crude ones at that. He's 6in 7in and his opening line was a gag about whether the rest of him was 'in proportion'.

We haven't learned yet what each of the characters has done to merit their sentences. But no one will be surprised that an excerpt from a later episode, on Graham Norton's chat show last week, revealed that Greg was literally caught with his trousers down.

There's the basis of a really good serial here, an ensemble drama with criss-crossing storylines like The Syndicate or The Split.

But Merchant's script suggests he feels that would be beneath him. Just as we're getting to know the characters, he warns us not to believe in them: 'Everyone's a type  you've got your Right-wing blowhard, Left-wing militant, celebutante and shifty old timer,' says Rani, who describes herself as a 'studious Asian good girl'.

Vocabulary of the night: Dim Greg was being battered with long words in Succession (Sky Atlantic). 'Popinjay', 'histrionic', 'intransigent' and 'meretricious' were just some he couldn't begin to translate. Has there ever been a drama that loved its verbiage so much? Advertisement

After that, it was difficult to care why Christian's friends, riding around in a Range Rover with tinted windows like rap stars, were forcing him to carry out an armed robbery. They're just cardboard cutouts  the script already told us so.

Sensing that none of it adds up, movie star Christopher Walken plays Frank the forger with a New Jersey Mafia accent.

He has a wordy catchphrase, 'Greetings and felicitations,' which might work with a Cockney swagger  said by David Jason, for example. Walken sounds like Tony Soprano trying to chew a thesaurus.

There's no mystery about where to pigeonhole The Long Call (ITV), running across four nights this week. Taken from a book by the queen of rural crime, Ann Cleeves, this drama set on the North Devon coast is in the mould of her previous long-runners, Vera and Shetland.

Ben Aldridge plays DI Matthew Venn, returning to the town where he grew up in an evangelical Christian sect.

His mother Dorothy, a fervently repressed Juliet Stevenson, banished him years ago when he came out as gay. Though Dorothy seemed constantly on the brink of rolling her eyes and speaking in tongues, it was Martin Shaw who stole the first episode  menacing, wheedling, devious and controlling as the church elder Dennis.

Venn feels so ill at ease, being around these people again, that he can't even tell colleagues his father has just died.

But he's distracted enough to leave the murder investigation, of a drunken chef found stabbed to death on the beach, to his sergeant, Jen (Pearl Mackie).

Or maybe the magnificent sea views are distracting him. You can rely on an Ann Cleeves drama for great landscapes.
TV celebrity Grant Denyer famously declared he wanted to get off the booze forever after battling alcohol issues - even admitting to fronting the weather while still drunk.

But the Gold Logie-winner, 44, confirmed he still enjoys the odd alcoholic beverage after pictures emerged showed him with a mojito on a raucous super yacht party on Sydney Harbour with his castmates from Seven's 'Dancing With The Stars'.

The party, which Denyer organised as a treat to the cast to mark the end of a gruelling eight-week shoot, caused controversy after a New Idea's cover showing the former Sunrise weatherman party on the boat with co-star and professional dancer, Lily Cornish, 22.

Another set of images captured the ex-weatherman with his hand on her thigh.

A furious Denyer and his wife, Chezzi, slammed the magazine for publishing 'crap' after the cover story alleged he'd been 'caught out' in the pictures.

Never sober: Grant Denyer's rep has denied he has ever quit alcohol for good despite admitting to struggling in the past (pictured with a mojito above)

Denyer's manager has confirmed to Daily Mail Australia that his client was not a teetotaler and still enjoyed the occasional drink - including that day on the DWTS cast party.

'Grant consumed a prosecco, a half prosecco and half soda water plus a half strength mojito over the 5.5 hour period on the water,' his manager confirmed.

'He isn't sober. And has never said that he is sober.'

Denyer famously confessed to struggling with alcohol during his appearance on Ten's I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here in 2020 - saying he hoped to get off the grog 'for good'.

This picture of Denyer, 44, and his co-star, Lily Cornish, 22, was a controversial choice on New Idea's cover (above)

'Grant spoke about not liking his relationship with alcohol on I'm A Celebrity as he felt he drank more than he liked when feeling anxious, but this year he's developed a more health-conscious focus and his exceptional performance on Dancing with the stars really showcases that.

Seven most famous weatherman was joined on the cruise by Angie Kent, Ricki-Lee Coulter and Rob Mills - all of whom were snapped downing champagne, cocktails and espresso martinis.

Denyer's manager also confirmed he and wife Chezzi are considering taking legal action over New Idea's front-page - which was pulled from the website soon after publication.

'We're going through some legal channels at the moment and once that has been handled we might be able to speak more about the matter,' Denyer's rep said.

The print edition, however, remained on sale for several more days.
Malin Akerman took her son Sebastian and dog for a walk in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles on Monday afternoon.

The 43-year-old actress was seen holding her only child's hand for much of the stroll, during which she made sure to stay close to him while looking out for oncoming cars.

The performer shares Sebastian with her former husband, Roberto Zincone, whom she divorced in 2014.

Time for two: Malin Akerman was seen taking her son Sebastian and their family's dog for a walk in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles on Monday afternoon

Akerman stayed cozy in a black button-up puffy jacket while braving the rainy weather with her child.

The Childrens Hospital actress also sported a pair of dark leopard-print sweat pants that were tucked into a pair of heeled boots.

The Watchmen cast member kept her personal belongings close with a patterned backpack during the outing.

Her gorgeous blonde locks remained free-flowing and added a welcome element of contrast to her otherwise dark outfit.

Dressed for the weather: Akerman stayed cozy in a black button-up puffy jacket while braving the rainy weather with her child

Akerman and Zincone originally met in 2003 while they were both performing in The Petalstones, in which she sang and he played drums.

The pair eventually began a relationship and went on to tie the knot during a wedding ceremony that was held in 2007.

The two later welcomed Sebastian into their lives in 2013, although the musician filed for a divorce from the actress that same year.

She later began a relationship with Jack Donnelly, and they eventually solidified their union in 2018 after they became engaged the previous year.

Moving on: Following her divorce from Zincone, Akerman began a relationship with Jack Donnelly, and they eventually solidified their union in 2018 after they became engaged the previous year; they are seen earlier this month

Akerman is currently working on the upcoming comedy-horror flick, Slayers, in which she is set to appear.

The feature is centered around a group of influencers who become trapped in the mansion of an evil vampire and must be saved by a professional gamer and an old-school vampire hunter.

In addition to the Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle actress, the film's cast includes performers such as Abigail Breslin, Lydia Hearst and Thomas Jane, as well as Donnelly.

Akerman notably serves as one of the upcoming feature's executive producers, and she previously spoke to Deadline to express her enthusiasm for the forthcoming project's release.

Staying busy: Akerman is currently working on the upcoming comedy-horror flick, Slayers, in which she is set to appear; she is seen at the Eternals premiere earlier this month

She told the media outlet: 'I'm so excited to get back on set and can't think of a better group to share the screen with during this unique time!'

The performer also remarked that she took on the project mainly based on how interesting it sounded at first glance.

'When this script came to me, I immediately knew I wanted to be a part of it and now I get to play this fun, vampire villain  a first for me,' she said.

Production on the K. Asher Levin-directed film previously started last year, with New Mexico serving as a primary filming location.

Slashers currently does not have a set release date.
Grant Denyer was falsely accused by New Idea magazine last week of cheating on his wife Chezzi with 22-year-old dancer Lily Cornish.

And just a day before the hurtful fabrication hit newsstands, the Denyers enjoyed a family outing near their sprawling farm in Bathurst, NSW.

The couple arrived at the city centre with their youngest child, eight-month-old daughter Sunday, in a stroller.

Before the storm: Grant Denyer enjoyed a family day out in Bathurst on October 17, just a day before New Idea magazine falsely accused him of having an affair with a woman half his age

In photos taken on October 17, Grant stepped out of his family's silver car before pulling Sunday's collapsible stroller out of the boot.

He dressed casually in a blue jumper, white jeans and rainbow-coloured Nike sneakers.

Chezzi exited the car carrying a bundle of children's clothing and toys.

Dad duties! The Family Feud host stepped out of his family's silver car before pulling Sunday's collapsible stroller out of the boot

She has her hands full! Chezzi exited the car carrying a bundle of children's clothing and toys

The mother of three looked chic in a long-sleeve blue midi dress with button-down detailing.

She styled her blonde hair in loose waves and covered her face with a blue mask.

Weaving through the crowds, the Denyers pushed Sunday's pram down the footpath as they made their way to the shops.

Beautiful in blue! The mother of three looked chic in a long-sleeve blue midi dress

Casual: He dressed casually in a blue jumper, white jeans and rainbow-coloured Nike sneakers

The sighting came a day before New Idea published a front-page story falsely implying Grant was having an affair with dancer Lily Cornish.

The magazine published photos of Grant with his hand on Lily's thigh in between rehearsals for Dancing with the Stars: All Stars in Sydney.

While the photos were accompanied by the headline 'Grant Denyer Caught Out', the full set of images has since been released, offering a more complete picture of what happened.

Bonding: The happy couple were seen chatting on the footpath after getting out of their car

The original article falsely implied Grant and Lily were cheating on their respective partners - a claim the Denyers have strongly denied - but the photos themselves actually suggest a platonic relationship.

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting any infidelity took place.

For example, while Grant did place his hand on Lily's thigh at one stage, it wasn't necessarily an intimate gesture.

Hot wheels! Grant pushed Sunday's stroller as he and Chezzi made their way down the street

Fake news: The sighting came a day before New Idea published a front-page story falsely implying Grant was having an affair with dancer Lily Cornish

One photo appears to show him patting the young dancer's leg in a fatherly manner, which is what he maintains happened.

There were other moments when they acted like ordinary friends and colleagues.

Shots of them looking chummy at the boat party and linking arms outside were seemingly cropped to make it appear as if they were alone.

Deceptive: New Idea published the images alongside the headline 'Grant Denyer Caught Out'

In reality, they were surrounded by their co-stars, including the likes of former Bachelorette Angie Kent and The Morning Show host Kylie Gillies.

Grant admitted on Thursday he'd 'embarrassed' his family, telling 2Day FM's The Morning Crew with Hughesy, Ed & Erin the pictures actually showed him consoling his friend after she had received some sad personal news.

The images, he said, were taken by a paparazzo just moments after he and Lily had finished speaking to his wife Chezzi over FaceTime.

Denial: The original article falsely suggested Grant and Lily (left) were cheating on their respective partners - a claim the Denyers have strongly denied - but the photos themselves actually suggest a platonic relationship

'It's such a horrible, made-up story that's embarrassing for everyone,' he said.

'We'd just been on the phone to Chezzi, we had been FaceTiming It had been a bit of a tough day and Lil had a bit going on in her personal life.'

'It's not up to me to divulge what it [the personal issue] is but I was just giving her a bit of a pep talk and fatherly advice,' he added.

Happy family: Grant and Chezzi, who married in 2010, are parents to daughters Sailor, Scout and Sunday. Pictured when Chezzi was pregnant with Sunday

'I just gave her a tap on the leg and she sort of leaned in for a bit of a hug after a chat and that's the photo on the [New Idea] front page.'

Lily also addressed the New Idea story on Thursday, sharing a post to Instagram thanking her fans for being so understanding.

'Thanks everyone for the kind words and messages. I really appreciate the amount of love that has come out of this yucky / disrespectful situation. Killing it with kindness,' she wrote.

'It's such a horrible, made-up story': Grant admitted on Thursday he'd 'embarrassed' his family, telling 2Day FM's The Morning Crew with Hughesy, Ed & Erin the pictures actually showed him consoling his friend after she had received some sad personal news

Speaking up: Lily addressed the New Idea story on Thursday, sharing this post to Instagram thanking her fans for their 'kind words and messages'

Grant and his wife had categorically denied last Monday's New Idea report in a series of social media posts on Wednesday.

Chezzi posted screenshots of the article - which falsely suggested her husband was having an affair with a woman half his age - on Instagram and blasted the magazine for fabricating such a 'gross and mean' story.

She went on to claim the photographer who took the photos had apologised to her for the images being 'taken out of context'.

She also pointed out that Lily's long-term boyfriend Jock White had been pictured visiting her during rehearsals for DWTS.

Grant later issued his own blistering statement, calling the article a 'brutal' attack on a '22-year-old kid' and a 'dad of three girls'.
All eyes were on Keri Russell as she arrived to a special screening of her upcoming thriller Antlers on Sunday evening in New York City.

For the star-studded occasion, the 45-year-old Felicity star rocked a plunging black gown with a shimmery white bra, which showed off her incredibly toned physique.

She accessorized her timeless ensemble with a dramatic pair of statement earrings, red lipstick, black nail polish and open-toed high heels.

Absolutely beautiful: All eyes were on Keri Russell as she arrived to a special screening of her upcoming thriller Antlers on Sunday evening in New York City

She looked absolutely radiant while gracing the red carpet alongside Gina Gershon, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Peter Sarsgaard, Neil Patrick Harris, David Burtka and more.

Antlers takes place in an isolated Oregon town, where a middle-school teacher and her sheriff brother become embroiled with her enigmatic student, whose dark secrets lead to terrifying encounters with a legendary ancestral creature who came before them.

Russell also posed for pictures with director Scott Cooper, best known for writing and directing Crazy Heart (2009), Out of the Furnace (2013), Black Mass (2015) and Hostiles (2017).

Cooper, 51, wore a black leather jacket, matching button-down and a pair of Nike sneakers.

Glam: For the star-studded occasion, the 45-year-old Felicity star rocked a plunging black gown with a shimmery white bra, which showed off her incredibly toned physique

All in the details: Gorgeous: She accessorized her timeless ensemble with a dramatic pair of statement earrings, red lipstick, black nail polish and open-toed high heels

Friendly: Russell also posed for pictures with director Scott Cooper, best known for writing and directing Crazy Heart (2009), Out of the Furnace (2013), Black Mass (2015) and Hostiles (2017)

Red carpet: Gyllenhaal, 43, also mingled with Cooper while rocking a beige dress and black tuxedo jacket

Gyllenhaal, 43, also mingled with Cooper while rocking a beige dress and black tuxedo jacket.

She was joined by her husband, 50, who wore a light-wash denim jacket, patterned shirt and black trousers.

Actress Gina Gershon cut an edgy figure in black glasses, a white leather jacket, plain black t-shirt and flared jeans.

Smiling: She was joined by her husband, 50, who wore a light-wash denim jacket, patterned shirt and black trousers

Big cast: The entire cast, including Greene, Nick Antosca, Henry Chaisson, Keri Russell, Jeremy T.Thomas, Scott Cooper and J. Miles Dale, attended the event

Blissful: Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka looked happy in love as they were pictured with their arms wrapped around each other

Cool girl: Actress Gina Gershon cut an edgy figure in black glasses, a white leather jacket, plain black t-shirt and flared jeans

Actress: Gershon posed with one hand in her pocket

On Good Morning America earlier this week, Keri promoted her new film, produced by Guillermo Del Toro.

She also said she would be up for a Felicity reunion as the show is about to celebrate 20 years since the finale.

Asking if she would ever do an 'on-screen reunion,' she immediately shared: 'Well I would do it. You know I love that group, some of those people are still some of my best friends. I would definitely.'

The California native rose to fame on the hit drama series which ran from 1998 to 2002.

Giddy: Gyllenhaal couldn't contain her laughter at one point as she broke out in giggles

Friends: Inside, Russell and Gyllenhaal were seen chatting at Searchlight Pictures' NY Special Screening of Antlers

Movie buffs: Sarsgaard, Russell and Gyllenhaal all pictured together

Coming soon: On Good Morning America earlier this week, Keri promoted her new film, produced by Guillermo Del Toro

Exciting: She also said she would be up for a Felicity reunion as the show is about to celebrate 20 years since the finale
She's the Married At First Sight star who has since found fame on OnlyFans.

But on Tuesday, Alana Lister gave fans a little more than they bargained for on Instagram, as she posed in a daring ensemble that showed off a considerable amount of underboob.

The 31-year-old almost risked a wardrobe malfunction, with her itsy-bitsy white top barely covering her modesty.

That's risky! Married At First Sight star Alana Lister gave fans a little more than they bargained for on Tuesday as she posed in a daring ensemble showing off a considerable amount of her underboob

She also showed off her trim pins in a multi-coloured mini skirt.

In one photo, Alana was seen running her hands through her long blonde locks, while another showed her holding two cocktails in hand.

The risque post comes after the ex-MAFS bride joined adult subscription-based website OnlyFans in July.

For $20.00 a month, subscribers can access uncensored photos and videos of the 30-year-old reality star.

At the time, Alana told Daily Mail Australia that fans can expect to see bikini-clad photos that are too racy to share on Instagram.

Her eyes are up here! She also showed off her trim pins in a multi-coloured mini skirt

Feeling parched? Another photo shows Alana holding two cocktails in hand

Cashing in: The risque post comes after the ex-MAFS bride joined adult subscription-based website OnlyFans in July

'It's been a crazy thing to actually commit to but I'm ready,' she said.

'I had all these bikini and lingerie pics from shoots that I didn't upload to Instagram because they seemed a little too sexual,' she added.

Alana explained that she decided to finally join the platform because she was 'sick of all the Karens' trying to control her.

Too hot to handle! At the time, Alana told Daily Mail Australia that fans can expect to see bikini-clad photos that are too racy to share on Instagram

'People have a problem with anything I do either way. Women should be allowed to feel sexy,' she continued.

Alana explained that she felt like it was 'empowering' for women to join OnlyFans.

The primary school teacher has spent the past few weeks teasing her appearance on the platform.

Rebel: Alana explained that she decided to finally join the platform because she was 'sick of all the Karens' trying to control her on Instagram

'Personally right now, I wouldn't really consider it, but I'm definitely supportive of the women who do it,' she said back in April.

During the Instagram Q&A, Alana also revealed that her ample assets were surgically enhanced.

'My boobs are not natural. That question gets asked a lot,' she said.

'My boobs are not natural': Back in April, the Gold Coast based beauty revealed her ample assets were surgically enhanced during an intimate Q&A with fans

Since her time on MAFS, Alana has amassed a whopping 111k followers and could make a comfortable living on the platform with the right amount of subscribers.

While OnlyFans has made a name for itself through its adult content, there are creators on the platform that use it for other forms of content, including fitness videos and racy bikini snaps.

Alana is the first bride of her season to join the platform, following in the footsteps of past brides Stacey Hampton, Hayley Vernon and Ines Basic.
Nick Nolte looked all cleaned up while filming his new movie Rittenhouse in the section of Philadelphia bearing the same name.

The actor, 80, stood during the scene with a completely clean-shaven face a few days after shooting a scene with a large, bushy beard.

The Cape Fear star wore a gray jacket, a plaid button-down shirt and grey tee for shooting the movie, where he plays a homeless man.

Looking clean: Nick Nolte looked all cleaned up while filming his new movie Rittenhouse in the section of Philadelphia bearing the same name

He donned a pair of blue jeans and black sneakers, and he held a white paper bag in his left hand and a black cane in his right.

Nolte stood next to young actor Dharon E. Jones who donned a puffy black vest over a a red sweater.

Jones wore a pair of blue jeans, black shoes and a green hat worn backwards. He held a white, plastic container in her hand.

A grungy outfit: Nolte wore an old looking gray jacket, plaid shirt and old blue jeans

Working with his co-star: Nolte filmed a scene with his actor Dharon E. Jones

The new movie is about a a young man who becomes friends with a homeless man played by Nolte, according to the local CBS affiliate.

The star has a couple other projects on the way as well. Nolte also has a role in Blackout, an upcoming film that will also feature Josh Duhamel.

Blackout will center around a hospitalized man who wakes up to find that the cartel is chasing after him.

Keeping busy: Nolte has another role in the film Blackout coming soon as well

Happily married: The Gangster Squad actor married his longtime girlfriend Clytie Lane in 2016 (pictured 2008)

As for his personal life, Nolte has experienced quite a bit of change in recent years.

The Gangster Squad actor married his longtime girlfriend Clytie Lane in 2016. The two have a child together, Sophie, who was born in 2007.

Lane is Nolte's fourth wife. He was previously married to Shelia Lane from 1966 to 1970, to Sharyn Haddad from 1978 to 1983 and to Rebecca Linger from 1984 to 1994. He and Linger had a son, Brawley, in 1986.
Their respective breakfast shows are locked in a tight ratings tussle.

But apparently there's no bad blood between Today's Karl Stefanovic and Sunrise host Natalie Barr, with the pair spotted enjoying lunch together last week.

In a photo obtained by Daily Mail Australia, the 47-year-old Channel Nine star and his 53-year-old Sunrise foe were all smiles at a group function in Sydney.

Ceasefire: Apparently there's no ill will between Today's Karl Stefanovic (far left) and Sunrise host Natalie Barr (far right), with the pair spotted enjoying lunch together last week

Karl and Natalie sat just feet from each other while the former happily threw up a peace sign for the camera.

Natalie smiled too, while behind her stood Seven News star Michael Usher.

The gathering, hosted by Navarra CEO Sal Navarra, was to celebrate Sydney's reopening following a prolonged Covid lockdown.

Not seen at the gathering was Natalie's co-host David 'Kochie' Koch, who once famously boasted he wasn't tight with Karl because he already has enough friends.

Awkward! It coincided with both Karl's and Natalie's breakfast shows trading ratings leads. Pictured Karl with his Today show co-host Allison Langdon

'No, not at all,' said Kochie, when asked if he hung out with his rival anchor during a 2020 New Idea interview.

'I've met Karl a number of times at industry functions, but I don't need new friends.'

Last week's ceasefire coincided with both Karl's and Natalie's breakfast shows trading ratings leads.

Nine's Today last month overtook Sunrise in the ratings for the first time in three years, however the Seven flagship recently clawed back their advantage.

On Monday, Sunrise recorded 263,000 viewers, versus Today's 216,000.

'I've met Karl a number of times at industry functions, but I don't need new friends': Not seen at the gathering was Natalie's co-host David 'Kochie' Koch, who once famously boasted he wasn't tight with Karl because he already has enough friends

Earlier this month, Karl and his co-host Allison Langdon were believed to have renewed their contracts with Nine - with new salaries to reflect the show's surge in popularity.

The breakfast TV stars have reportedly secured deals worth $1.8million each after the program grew its audience to become competitive with Channel Seven's Sunrise for the first time in years.

The one-year contract extensions will come into effect in 2022, according to Woman's Day.

Reports both hosts are getting the same salary will no doubt rankle former Today co-anchor Lisa Wilkinson, who was sacked in 2017 after asking for pay parity with Stefanovic.

Stefanovic and Langdon, 42, were seen visiting accountant Anthony Bell's home last week, prompting rumours they were there to renegotiate their contracts.

A network insider told Woman's Day: 'They've found their momentum and they want more money.'

'They continue winning week after week in prime markets like Sydney. They've finally found their groove,' the source added.

Win! Nine's Today last month overtook Sunrise in the ratings for the first time in three years, however the Seven flagship recently clawed back their advantage

'They've timed it perfectly so they can leverage their ongoing ratings success. They asked for $1.8million each.'

Prior to their rumoured raise, Stefanovic was believed to be earning about $1.2million, while Langdon has almost doubled her salary.

Channel Nine declined to comment.

New deals: Earlier this month, Karl and his co-host Allison Langdon were believed to have renewed their contracts with Nine - with new salaries to reflect the show's surge in popularity

It comes after Stefanovic's highly publicised pay dispute with former co-host Wilkinson, who abruptly left the show in 2017.

The 61-year-old veteran TV host walked from the network after trying and failing to achieve pay parity with Stefanovic.

In her new autobiography, It Wasn't Meant to Be Like This, Wilkinson detailed how Stefanovic had convinced her to approach the network for more money, explaining that if they weren't given pay parity, they'd both quit.

Bad blood: Reports both hosts are getting the same salary will no doubt rankle former Today co-anchor Lisa Wilkinson, who was sacked in 2017 after asking for pay parity with Stefanovic

She later discovered Stefanovic had signed a $2million deal with Nine amid rumours he was planning to move across to Channel Seven.

'He had played both networks off against each other brilliantly and in full public view. There was no doubt about it: Karl certainly knew the art of the deal,' she wrote in a book excerpt published by The Daily Telegraph.

According to Woman's Day, however, Stefanovic has learnt from his past mistakes and now realises 'his secret weapon to survival on the show is Ally'.
Sam Frost deleted her Instagram account after copping backlash over her anti-vaxxer comments.

And it seems like she picked up and moved on from the controversial incident as she enjoyed an outing at a park in Sydney, on Sunday.

The 32-year-old was seen working out alongside her new boyfriend Jay Bruno.

She's doing just fine, apparently! Home and Away's Sam Frost looked loved-up with boyfriend Jay Bruno as they enjoyed an outing at a Sydney park on Sunday - following her anti-vax controversy

She dressed in a black and white spotted crop top and black leggings that showcased her svelte figure.

Personal trainer Jay, who starred on Seven's Instant Hotel, opted for a casual look in a baggy white T-shirt with grey shorts.

The pair appeared to enjoy an animated conversation as he demonstrated various workouts.

Kiss kiss! The couple were seen sharing a passionate kiss as they took a break from working out together

Fit: Sam dressed in a black and white spotted crop top and black leggings that showcased her svelte figure

Exercise: Personal trainer Jay, who starred on Seven's Instant Hotel, opted for a casual look in a baggy white T-shirt with grey shorts as he demonstrated a pull-up technique

Jay showed Sam different techniques for pull-ups, push-ups and seated rows.

As the pair enjoyed their flirty conversation, he affectionately held her hand.

Things became quite a bit steamy between them and they shared a passionate kiss.

Loved-up: The couple got cosy during the work out and shared an affectionate embrace

Handsy! As the pair enjoyed their flirty conversation, he affectionately held her hand

Working out: Sam showed off her physical prowess as she did pull-ups using the bar

Working up a sweat: She was later seen doing push-ups using the bench

Jay stripped off his shirt to reveal his washboard abs, that clearly impressed Sam.

They moved closer to each other, before she wrapped her arms around him.

As he did some push-ups, Sam was approached by an adorable dog who she played with while waiting for her beau.

He appeared to give her a few pointers with her seated row work out

Giving it her best: She seemed to happily heed his exercise advice

Having fun: After completing the set, Sam threw her head back in laughter

Hot: Jay stripped off his shirt to reveal his washboard abs, that clearly impressed Sam

Later, a fan approached Sam to have a chat with her and ask for a photo which she was happy to do.

After their exercise session, the two packed up their equipment and bags and headed home.

The couple's outing comes after Sam recently resurfaced on Instagram after her controversial anti-vax video rant.

Steamy: They moved closer to each other, seemingly whispering sweet nothings to each other

Embrace: The actress them wrapped her arms around her hunky boyfriend

Distracted: As he did some push ups, Sam was approached by an adorable dog who she played with while waiting for her beau

She went to ground and deleted her Instagram account earlier this month, but appeared in an Instagram story posted by her co-star Harley Bonner.

A curious fan asked: 'How is Sam Frost?'

He quipped back 'Find out for yourself!' as he panned the camera towards Sam.

Love your work! Later, a Home and Away fan approached Sam to have a chat with her

Picture time! The fan asked for a photo which she was happy to do, as her boyfriend captured the picture

Done for the day: After their exercise session, the two packed up their equipment and bags and headed home

In the video, the blonde beamed as she snacked on almonds in between scenes.

'Hey! I'm really happy and just eating almonds like a loser,' she said in the clip.

Earlier this month, Sam deactivated her Instagram account shortly after revealing in an emotional video that she was unvaccinated and her mental health had suffered as a result of other people 'judging' her.

Update: Sam recently appeared in an Instagram story posted by her co-star Harley Bonner who asked: 'How is Sam Frost?' He quipped back 'Find out for yourself!' as he panned the camera towards the actress

Sam, who has played nurse Jasmine Delaney on Home and Away since 2017, called for less judgement towards unvaccinated Australians.

'I was really hesitant about doing a video or even speaking up about this sort of thing, but I feel like it's getting to a point now in the world where there's a lot of segregation,' she said in the video.

'There's a lot of harsh judgement and opinions being thrown around a lot and it's taking its toll on my mental health for sure, and I know people around me are struggling - particularly if they're on the side of they don't want to get vaccinated, for whatever reason.

All good: In the video, the blonde beamed as she snacked on almonds in between scenes. 'Hey! I'm really happy and just eating almonds like a loser,' she said in the clip

'There are lots of different reasons why people are not getting vaccinated and it might be because of their medical history, their concerns, they might have family history, it could be religious reasons.'

Sam then said she hadn't been vaccinated, but claimed she had spoken to her medical doctor as well as a psychologist about her decision.

However, it's understood she does not have a valid medical exemption.

She added tearfully: 'It's a really hard time to be in society right now and you feel like you are less of a human and you feel like people judge you.

Making headlines: Earlier this month, Sam deactivated her Instagram account shortly after revealing in an emotional video that she was unvaccinated and her mental health had suffered as a result of other people 'judging' her

She explained it was important for the unvaccinated to look after their mental health, especially as freedoms return for fully vaccinated Australians.

'I'm struggling a lot with my mental health and I like to think that I'm pretty on to it. I see a psychologist regularly. So I can't imagine what it's like for people who don't have a support network around them,' she said.

She also added she could 'get in trouble' for coming out publicly as unvaccinated, before urging people to treat each other with more kindness and compassion.

Her video caused a great deal of controversy, mainly because of her use of the word 'segregation' when referring to the way society 'judges' unvaccinated people.

Unvaccinated: Sam then said she hadn't been vaccinated, but claimed she had spoken to her medical doctor as well as a psychologist about her decision. However, it's understood she does not have a valid medical exemption

'Segregation' is typically used to describe societies that are divided due to race, religion or sexual orientation.

A Seven spokesperson said shortly afterwards: 'Seven strongly encourages vaccination for all our people and all Seven productions strictly adhere to the public health Covid-19 safe protocols.

'All Home and Away cast and crew also undertake Covid-19 testing three times a week in addition to other preventative measures.

'Sam Frost continues to work on Home and Away and follows the safety protocols in place.'
Kylie Jenner's best friend Anastasia 'Stassie' Karanikolaou is a popular influencer with over 10 million followers on Instagram.

And on Monday, the 23-year-old enjoyed the limelight as she stepped out in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles to celebrate the launch of her collaboration with online fashion retailer PrettyLittleThing.

Joined by a close group of pals for a private dinner at Mastro's Steakhouse, the stunner slipped her killer curves into a racy psychedelic frock with cut-out detail.

In the limelight: Kylie Jenner's best friend Anastasia 'Stassie' Karanikolaou (pictured) put on a leggy display in a racy psychedelic frock and stiletto heels as she celebrated her PrettyLittleThing collaboration in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles on Monday

Anastasia, who goes by the nickname Stassie, teamed the eye-catching look with a black silk trench coat and strappy black stiletto heels that boosted her leggy figure.

She added touches of glam in the form of a black Christian Dior handbag and silver hoop earrings, and finished off the ensemble with flawless hair and makeup.

Stassie styled her glossy chestnut locks out and in a slight wave, and her makeup included a golden complexion, kohl-lined eyes, a touch of blush and a pink lipstick.

Details: The influencer, 23, teamed the eye-catching look with a black silk trench coat, a black Christian Dior handbag and silver hoop earrings

Primped to perfection: Stassie, who boasts over 10 million followers on Instagram, styled her glossy chestnut locks out and in a slight wave

Supporting her: Stassie celebrated the launch of her collaboration with the fashion retailer at Mastro's Steakhouse and was joined by family and friends including sister Alexia Karanikolaou (pictured)

The socialite appeared in great spirits as she mingled with sister Alexia Karanikolaou, and her pals including Sydney Carlson and Carter Gregory at the launch party.

Stassie reposted to her Instagram Stories photos of the glamorous table set-up inside the restaurant, which featured a stunning floral centrepiece in pink tones.

The beauty's collaboration with PrettyLittleThing includes the dress worn on the night by Stassie, as well as pieces including a burgundy leather-look frock and a revealing little black dress with cut-outs at the waist.

Gorgeous: Pictured is close pal Sydney Carlson who slipped her figure into a burgundy leather-look frock, teamed with feather-adorned black stiletto heels

In the music biz: Also seen arriving was Carter Gregory, who works as a record executive

In attendance: Pictured arriving is Kelsey Calemine (left) and Olivia O'Brien (right)

Exclusive bash: Stassie reposted to her Instagram Stories photos of the glamorous table set-up inside the restaurant, which featured a stunning floral centrepiece in pink tones

Earlier this year, Stassie spoke about her longtime friendship with Kylie, 24, in an interview with Bustle.

The two met at Barnes & Noble when they were in middle school and became BFFs after meeting again at a mutual friend's birthday party.

Stassie said, 'We know too much about each other. We're stuck with each other forever.'

Racy collection: The beauty's collaboration with PrettyLittleThing includes the dress worn on the night by Stassie, as well as pieces including a burgundy leather-look frock and a revealing little black dress with cut-outs at the waist

Best friends: Earlier this year, Stassie spoke about her longtime friendship with Kylie (left), 24, in an interview with Bustle. The two met at Barnes & Noble when they were in middle school and became BFFs after meeting again at a mutual friend's birthday party

Whenever the pair are not pictured together for a while, rumours frequently swirl suggesting that the two have had a falling out.

Stassie dismissed the speculation, saying, 'It's nuts because I'm like, "I've known this girl since I was literally 13." If you think that [because] we don't post a photo together for a month we're not friends, you're insane.'

She also spoke about how her billionaire friend motivates her, adding, 'It's one of the most inspiring things ever seeing my best friend build a whole empire.'

Closer than ever: Stassie said, 'We know too much about each other. We're stuck with each other forever'
He is currently filming the four installment of the action franchise, John Wick.

And Keanu Reaves was spotted slipping into character on Monday, as he donned a black suit and tie to film scenes for the new movie on location in Paris.

The actor, 57, has been filming the movie in recent months and it was recently reported that the kind-hearted star presented the entire John Wick stunt team with personalised $9,150 Rolex watches to say thank you for their hard work.

With four members of the team to provide for, the star shelled out $36,600 for the merchandise.

He's back! Keanu Reaves was spotted slipping into character on Monday, as he donned a black suit and tie to film scenes for John Wick: Chapter 4 in location in Paris

The Matrix actor looked typically brooding as he took a seat on a wooden throne-style chair on set, which was positioned in front of an ornate gold table.

Keanu, who was surrounded by a film crew, was sat in front of a carafe of red wine and two glasses - as if he were awaiting a guest during the scene.

The star sported a very solemn expression as he shot the sequence, before jumping up to practice some of his fighting moves.

Surprise: The kind-hearted star presented the entire John Wick stunt team with personalised 7,300 Rolex watches to say thank you for their hard work

Keanu wore his raven shoulder-length hair in a loose style and sported a smattering of dark stubble on his face.

Once off camera he slipped on a cosy padded black jacket and appeared to be having a laugh with some of the members of the crew.

Keanu's co-star Ian McShane was also seen on set, sporting a pale blue shirt, jacket and aviator style shades.

Co-star: Keanu's co-star Ian McShane was also seen on set, sporting a pale blue shirt, jacket and aviator style shades

Practice makes perfect: The star sported a very solemn expression as he shot the sequence, before jumping up to practice some of his fighting moves

McShane plays Winston, the owner of the New York Continental Hotel and a longtime friend of Reeves' legendary assassin.

At the end of John Wick: Chapter 3  Parabellum, Winston seemingly betrayed John when he shot him off the roof of the hotel in order to prove his loyalty to the film's main antagonist The Adjudicator (Asia Kate Dillon).

McShane confirmed that he was returning to reprise his role in the franchise's latest film in July.

What a treat! Meanwhile, Keanu proved just how kind-hearted he was as he presented the stunt team with personalised Rolex Submariners watches as a special thank you for their efforts

Meanwhile, Keanu proved just how kind-hearted he was as he presented the stunt team with personalised Rolex Submariners watches as a special thank you for their efforts.

As an extra special touch, the actor personalised each of the snazzy five watches with a special message.

According to images on social media, Keanu gave four guys - Bruce Lee Concepcion, Jeremy Marinas, Dave Camarillo and Li Qiang - the watches, presenting it to them at Paris' Le Bistro Paul Bert on Saturday night.

Stunt performer and martial arts expert Jeremy showed off the watch to his 65,000 followers, giving a close-up of the inscription on the back.

Hanging out: Once off camera he slipped on a cosy padded black jacket and appeared to be having a laugh with some of the members of the crew

Last month, Keanu made an appearance on Today in which he discussed filming the John Wick movies and hinted at what fans can expect from the latest chapter of the saga.

'They're fun. They're intense. We're going for it,' he said.

'There's some really amazing John Wick action and new characters and it's been really fun to be playing the role again and to be telling this story. You know, there's new characters and we're opening up the world.

'Right now we're just shooting this crazy fight scene in the middle of traffic. So there's car crashes, gun fights.'

John Wick: Chapter 4 will be released in theaters on May 27, 2022.
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The Crown is set to re-create the infamous Martin Bashir interview with Princess Diana that Prince Harry claimed 'lost his mother her life'.

An entire episode in the upcoming fifth series will be dedicated to the shocking BBC sit down despite the Duke of Sussex signing a 112million deal with the streaming service for him and his wife Meghan.

The Royal has been scathing of the Panorama show, which was first shown in 1995 and saw his mother air her dirty laundry on Prince Charles and Camilla Parker Bowles.

He branded it 'unethical' and claimed the interview triggered the events that caused his mother to lose her life two years later.

Meanwhile Prince William said Bashir's deceit in obtaining his 1995 chat with Diana hastened his parents' divorce and 'hurt countless others' and called for it to never be aired again.

Despite this, insiders said The Crown will include an episode on it after millions were said to have been spent on the pivotal part of the upcoming instalment.

Netflix drama The Crown will dramatise Princess Diana's controversial 1995 interview with Martin Bashir, despite Prince William's request for it to be taken off-air

Undated handout photo issued by Netflix of Elizabeth Debicki as Diana, Princess of Wales appearing in the fifth season of the streaming website's show, The Crown

Senior sources insisted Netflix, which struck a 112million deal with Harry and Meghan (pictured) after they quit royal duties, is going ahead with the special episode

Scotland Yard's decision not to launch a criminal probe into the Martin Bashir scandal is 'mystifying', says top lawyer A leading lawyer has described Scotland Yard's decision not to launch a criminal probe into the Martin Bashir scandal as 'mystifying'. Quentin Hunt, a barrister who specialises in fraud and counterfeiting cases, believes there is enough evidence in the public domain about the disgraced reporter's activities for the Metropolitan Police to investigate. The Mail on Sunday revealed last week how Princess Diana 's brother Earl Spencer was so incensed by the decision that he is considering mounting private criminal prosecutions. Mr Hunt believes there are 'strong grounds' for an investigation into allegations of forgery and so-called 'fraud by false representation'. On the Met's decision, he said: 'It's mystifying, to be honest, because there's prima facie evidence of illegality in the public domain.' Advertisement

Reacting to Lord Dyson's damning report into how the original interview was obtained, the Duke of Sussex said in May: 'Our mother was an incredible woman who dedicated her life to service.

'She was resilient, brave, and unquestionably honest. The ripple effect of a culture of exploitation and unethical practices ultimately took her life. To those who have taken some form of accountability, thank you for owning it.

'That is the first step towards justice and truth. Yet what deeply concerns me is that practices like these - and even worse- are still widespread today. Then, and now, it's bigger than one outlet, one network, or one publication.

'Our mother lost her life because of this, and nothing has changed. By protecting her legacy, we protect everyone, and uphold the dignity with which she lived her life. Let's remember who she was and what she stood for.'

Prince William was also scathing, saying at the time: 'It is welcome that the BBC accepts Lord Dyson's findings in full  which are extremely concerning  that BBC employees: lied and used fake documents to obtain the interview with my mother; made lurid and false claims about the Royal Family which played on her fears and fuelled paranoia; displayed woeful incompetence when investigating complaints and concerns about the programme; and were evasive in their reporting to the media and covered up what they knew from their internal investigation.'

He said: 'It is my view that the deceitful way the interview was obtained substantially influenced what my mother said.'

He added: 'This Panorama programme holds no legitimacy and should never be aired again. It effectively established a false narrative which, for over a quarter of a century, has been commercialised by the BBC and others.'

Lord Dyson's inquiry found Bashir had lied to obtain the interview, using 'deceitful' methods later covered up by a 'woefully ineffective' internal investigation by Tony Hall, who later became BBC director-general.

The independent report plunged the BBC into one of the worst crises in its history, with the two royals accusing it of ruining their mother's life and helping to bring about the events that led to her death two years later.

Despite this, Prince Harry's bosses at Netflix insist the special episode will go ahead as planned, according to senior sources.

The insiders told the Sun newspaper last night: 'The Crown's creators see the interview as the keystone moment in series five.

'To the writers, the stormy marriage between Charles and Di led up to her outpouring on Panorama, and the aftermath of that decision defined her final months.

'They are making a huge investment in that. The Crown has a track record of delving into areas of the Royal Family's history they'd rather be left alone.'



William (pictured during a filmed response to the report) privately vowed to continue his battle to uncover 'the truth' about how his mother came to be callously duped

An inquiry by Lord Dyson in May found Bashir (pictured) had lied to obtain the interview, using 'deceitful' methods later covered up by a 'woefully ineffective' internal investigation by Tony Hall, who later became BBC director-general

Bashir (left) faked bank statements to get to Diana while the BBC's former director-general, Lord Hall of Birkenhead (right), has been accused of protecting him following his famous 1995 interview

Controversy: Bashir has been accused of spinning a web of deceit to land his 1995 interview with Diana, including falsifying bank statements in order to gain access to the Royal (pictured during the interview)

Princess Diana's brother Earl Spencer warns Met Police of plan to launch a private prosecution over the Martin Bashir affair after detectives drop probe into deception that landed BBC reporter his Panorama interview Princess Diana's brother has told a senior police commander that he is considering mounting private criminal prosecutions over the Martin Bashir scandal  a move that will send shockwaves through the BBC . Earl Spencer was angered by Scotland Yard's decision last month to drop its probe into events surrounding disgraced Corporation reporter Martin Bashir's 1995 Panorama interview with Diana. Bashir showed Earl Spencer forged bank statements to gain access to the Princess and then tricked her by peddling a string of smears and lies, including that Prince William 's watch had been bugged to record her conversations. William said the BBC's failures contributed to his mother's 'fear, paranoia and isolation' and hastened his parents' divorce. Following a devastating report into the scandal by former Supreme Court Judge Lord Dyson, the Metropolitan Police considered whether to launch an investigation into a range of potential offences, including forgery, misconduct in public office and blackmail. Advertisement

Royal expert Ingrid Seward, editor-in-chief of Majesty Magazine, said: 'This would be extremely upsetting and the only protection William has is not to watch it.'

Meanwhile royal commentator Margaret Holder added: 'William was dismayed at the time. It is also embarrassing for Harry.'

According to a friend, Diana's brother Earl Spencer claimed several crimes had been committed. He believed his vulnerable sister was spun a web of lies by Bashir who had established 'coercive control' over her.

By filling her mind with terrifying conspiracy theories and tricking her into the interview, he claims the rogue BBC reporter and his superiors had committed blackmail, fraud and obtaining property by deception.

He said that the corporation had cashed in when rights to the sensational interview were sold to other broadcasters around the world.

Bashir commissioned forged bank statements in flagrant breach of BBC rules to convince Earl Spencer to introduce him to Diana, Lord Dyson concluded in his excoriating inquiry.

The former religion editor admitted at the time to having the documents forged, but denied ever showing them to anybody.

Matt Wiessler, a graphic artist who said in 1996 Bashir had asked him to forge bank documents to help earn Diana's trust, said his career was ruined after he spoke out and was blacklisted by the broadcaster.

Around two months after the BBC interview aired, Mr Wiessler said his house was broken into and CDs containing the forged documents stolen.

He also said work had dried up after the BBC blacklisted him, with documents released under freedom of information request backing up his account.

Bosses had issued an edict never to work with him, in part because he had spoken to the media about the documents.

Despite the fallout, it took until November 2020 for an inquiry to be established based on the Mail on Sunday's reporting - culminating in the Dyson report.

The report slammed BBC bosses, including former director-general Tony Hall, for covering up information on how Bashir was able to secure the interview.

A 1996 internal inquiry into the interview was also slammed as 'woefully ineffective', forcing Tim Suter - another BBC boss who was part of the inquiry - to step down as chair of Ofcom.

The BBC has been plunged into one of the worst crises in its history by the explosive fallout from the scandal, with Princes William and Harry accusing the corporation of ruining their mother's life with its 'deceitful' exclusive. Pictured: Diana with her sons

Left: Elizabeth Debicki playing Princess Diana in series five of The Crown. Right: Emma Corrin Played a young Princess Diana in series four

Tony Hall left his job as head of the National Gallery, saying continuing in the role would be a 'distraction'. Bashir, who was still working as the BBC's religion editor, also quit the corporation in May, citing health issues.

Home Secretary Priti Patel said there were 'very strong searching questions' for the BBC.

The late Princess was portrayed by English actress Emma Corrin for the The Crown's fourth series. She will be replaced by Australian star Elizabeth Debicki for series five on the final years of her life.

Confirming her appointment in an official statement, Debicki said: 'Princess Diana's spirit, her words and her actions live in the hearts of so many.

'It is my true privilege and honour to be joining this masterful series, which has had me absolutely hooked from episode one.'

It's understood that Netflix is also looking for a teenage actor to portray Prince William, now 39, as a 13-year old boy.

The Crown is known for sparking controversy and it has often been reported Royals have been left riled by storylines and inclusions on the show.

Back In April, shortly after he passed away, it was alleged Prince Philip was upset by a 'shockingly malicious' episode of The Crown in which his father angrily blamed him for his sister's death in a plane crash.

Royal experts said Philip had been hurt by the manner in which the 1937 death of Princess Cecilie of Greece and Denmark had been depicted in the drama  and renewed calls for Netflix to apologise and add a disclaimer.

Slurs during the first four series include the suggestions the Prince was a serial philanderer who had an affair with a ballerina, was involved in the Profumo sex scandal and delivered a menacing threat to Princess Diana.

Producers of The Crown said they were 'deeply saddened' by his death, while actors Matt Smith and Tobias Menzies  who both played Philip over the four series  paid their own tributes.

Bashir commissioned forged bank statements (pictured) in flagrant breach of BBC rules to convince Earl Spencer to introduce him to Diana, Lord Dyson concluded in his excoriating inquiry

Netflix broke its silence on the controversy over The Crown last night, insisting there was no need to warn its millions of viewers that key scenes are invented. Pictured: Princess Diana shouts at Prince Charles in a scene from the latest series of The Crown

But the drama's creator, Peter Morgan, and Netflix fell silent when asked if they would apologise for the portrayal of Philip.

In November, Netflix spoke out on controversy over The Crown, insisting there was no need to warn its millions of viewers key scenes are invented.

The streaming giant claimed it was widely understood the hit series was a 'work of fiction' based on historical events.

And it wrote to Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden, rejecting his suggestion that a disclaimer at the start of each episode would be helpful.

Netflix told The Mail on Sunday at the time: 'We have always presented The Crown as a drama, and we have every confidence our members understand it's a work of fiction that's broadly based on historical events.

'As a result, we have no plans  and see no need  to add a disclaimer.' But the statement was described by one critic as 'arrogant'. Others said the company's intransigence was adding to the Family's disquiet over the affair.

Netflix has been accused of escalating the row by urging viewers to watch an explosive documentary about Princess Diana which it said would provide 'answers' to criticism of The Crown.

Its tweet promoting the documentary  Diana: In Her Own Words  led to vicious online attacks on Charles and Camilla. The Queen's ex-press secretary Dickie Arbiter accused Netflix of getting trolls 'to do their dirty work'.



'Queen eats for comfort, Edward has AIDS, Camilla is depressed, Charles is in love with the Nanny': How Earl Spencer's scribbled notes from first meeting between Princess Diana and Martin Bashir became key evidence in Panorama probe

A jaw-dropping list of smears and lies allegedly peddled by Martin Bashir to clinch his sensational Princess Diana scoop was recorded by her brother - including the Queen 'eating for comfort' and Charles being in love with the family nanny.

Earl Spencer kept meticulous notes of a meeting held on September 19, 1995, when he introduced the BBC man to his sister at her Knightsbridge flat.

Earl Spencer's records show that Bashir allegedly claimed that Diana's private letters were being opened, her car tracked and phoned tapped with her bodyguard plotting against her, and close friends were betraying her.

Earl Spencer's handwritten log of the meeting with Bashir at his sister's flat in Knightsbridge also includes a note saying: 'Camilla: depressed, but quiet for time being'.

In an execrable reference to Prince Edward, Spencer recorded Bashir as saying that the Queen's youngest son was receiving treatment for Aids at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London. Even the Queen was mentioned. Spencer noted Bashir as saying she was 'very ill with heart problems' and that she was a 'comfort eater'.

Earl Spencer (left) kept detailed notes when he met Martin Bashir (seen right holding a Bafta award for his Diana interview) when he met the BBC journalist with Diana at his sister's flat

Bashir is accused of effectively grooming the vulnerable princess by playing to her worst fears with a series of false claims

From officials bugging Diana's car to warnings her reputation would be 'destroyed': Earl Spencer's handwritten scraps that could shred Bashir's career

1: Diana's 'scum' former bodyguard

Bashir's opening gambit that three MI6 agents had told him Prince Charles's private secretary Richard Aylard was 'orchestrating' things surrounding Diana. This involved Ken Wharfe, Diana's former bodyguard, described as 'scum'.

Diana was already paranoid her staff and friends were betraying her and, at the meeting, the broadcaster allegedly brandished bank statements purportedly showing her closest aides were selling her secrets.

2: Charles' secretary 'paid by Jonathan Dimbleby'

Aylard, it was claimed, had been paid by the broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby. A decision to reinvent the prince had been taken by aides two years earlier. A year later this allegedly included attacking both Diana and the Spencer family.

3: Charles 'discussing ''end game'''

The notes, handed to Lord Dyson, include allegations MI6 had recorded Prince Charles and his private secretary planning the 'end game' - an extraordinary and false hint the heir to the throne was plotting to 'destroy' the Spencers and force them to flee to the US.

Charles Spencer's detailed notes, from one to five. The manila file contains notes of every meeting he had with Bashir, the logs of phone calls the BBC man made along with the faxes, the letters and even the gushing thank you cards that the reporter sent him

4: Spencers' reputation 'would be destroyed'

Spencers' reputation to be destroyed. In another remark recorded by Earl Spencer, Bashir claimed Prince Charles wanted Spencer's then wife, Victoria, dead. Diana meanwhile would be forced to move to America  possibly with her brother.

5: Will Carling affair claim

This relates to the stories during 1995 of the close friendship between Diana and the married England rugby captain Will Carling. Spencer notes Bashir's assertion that the newspaper stories had been 'fed' by Carling's wife Julia.

9: Diana's car 'bugged'

This note describes Bashir's alleged claim that Diana had been bugged by officials

The claim that Diana's cars and phone lines being bugged and her post intercepted would have increased her worries she was being spied on.

Bashir told Lord Dyson he would not have made these claims at a first meeting, the Telegraph reported.

17: Camilla 'depressed'

Camilla was allegedly described by Bashir as 'depressed, but quiet for the time being'. The second line refers to William and Harry's nanny, Tiggy Legge-Bourke

In the interview, Diana made her feelings clear on Camilla, famously saying, 'There are three of us in this marriage.'

Mentioning her could have been an attempt by Bashir to prompt her to speak out.

'Tiggy' is a reference to Tiggy Legge-Bourke, William and Harry's nanny who Charles was accused of having an affair with in claims that were subsequently dismissed.

17b: Philip's 'v unpleasant correspondence'

Earl Spencer recorded Bashir as describing 'very unpleasant correspondence' allegedly sent by Prince Philip to Diana and Sarah Ferguson

This claims Diana had received 'v unpleasant correspondence' from Philip and suggests he was annoyed at her 'hero status'.

It also references Edwina Mountbatten, the wife of Earl Mountbatten of Burma, who was known to have had affairs.

19: Fergie's business deals in the US

Another reference to Sarah Ferguson, this time describing her trips to the US to try and forge a business career

Sarah Ferguson and Prince Andrew divorced in 1996. This note refers to her numerous trips to the US to forge a business career.

It adds that Andrew still 'look[ed] after her' following their divorce by supporting her financially.

20: 'Queen eats for comfort'

This note suggests the Queen was unwell, stating 'Queen ill: heart' and adds she 'eats for comfort'.
She recently sparked speculation she was joining the cast of Below Deck Australia.

And on Tuesday, Abbie Chatfield looked at home on the sea as she promoted the ninth season of the original drama-filled reality show Below Deck.

The former Bachelor star, 26, ensured all eyes were on her as she cavorted on an inflatable turtle in a head-turning bikini.

Tongue pop: Abbie Chatfield slipped into a bikini and rode an inflatable turtle on Sydney Harbour to promote the forthcoming season of Below Deck

In one image, the blonde stunner appears to be having the time of her life with her tongue out, and her arm raised in the air.

However, Abbie's joy was soon over when the floating device capsized and she ended up in the drink.

In a third image, Abi is seen quickly making her way back onboard the luxury vessel.

Abi wrote alongside the gallery of images: 'Learning the hard way that Yacht life isn't as glam as I once thought...

'You try getting onto a lilo, oiled up in a strapless bikini, only for it to turn inside out every time you get in the water. @belowdeckbravo shows us what yacht life is really like. I just hope the cast's core strength is better than mine.'

Help: Abbie's joy was soon over when the floating device capsized and she ended up in the drink

Watch that top, love: In a third image, Abi is seen quickly making her way back onboard the luxury vessel

Splish splash: Abi made the most of the stunning day on Sydney Harbour

Season Nine of Below Deck will be available to stream on hayu from October 26 - and if the trailer is anything to go by, it's set to be the most exciting seasons to date.

The brand new season of the two-time Emmy-nominated series is set on the stunning waters of St. Kitts in the Caribbean.

Superyacht My Seanna will welcome back veterans Eddie in his new role as first officer, alongside larger-than-life character 'Chef Rachel' Hargrove - who is ready to redeem herself after a memorable last charter season.

But the show will be heading into unchartered waters upon its return, as a 'condition' leaves Captain Lee Rosbach stranded on land and unable to front the boat for the first time ever.

Below Deck is back! It comes as a new season of Below Deck will be available to stream on hayu from October 26

It forces Captain Sean Meagher to temporarily step in.

'Leaving the dock with a new captain, and a new crew?' Eddie says in the action-packed trailer. '...Tensions are high!'

Chef Rachel has quite the different approach, enthusiastically shouting: 'Let's go f**k this charter in the face!' as she prepares to cook up a storm for the waiting guests.

Season nine will also say ahoy to a fresh crop of yachties, including new chief stewardess Heather Chase, stews Jessica Albert and Fraser Olender and deckhands Jake Foulger, Rayna Lindsay and Wes O'Dell.

Stream brand new Below Deck from October 26 on hayu.
Amy Hart has revealed she cannot help but check negative comments online and that it has become an 'addiction.'

The former Love Island star, 28, spoke on Good Morning Britain with Richard Madeley and Ranvir Singh about trolling and admitted that she wakes up in the morning to horrid messages from strangers.

She said: 'I wake up in the morning at 7am and someone has taken the time at 6:30 in the morning to send you a barrage of messages.'

Sad: Amy Hart, 28, has revealed she cannot help but check negative comments online and that it has become an 'addiction.'

When asked by Richard why she could not just give up Twitter she said that she has to accept that it's her job now.

She said: 'Because on one hand it is my job now and also it is an addiction. You know when you have a toothache and you bite to check it still hurts a little bit.

'You're looking at all the nice comments like 'there must be a bad one in here' so it's an addiction.'

She also revealed the moment when she left the Love Island villa she immediately searched her name of Twitter to find negative comments on her appearance.

Abuse: The former Love Island star spoke on Good Morning Britain with Richard Madeley and Ranvir Singh about trolling and admitted that she wakes up in the morning to horrid messages

Tough: Amy has previously been open about her horrific experience with trolling after rising to fame on Love Island in 2019

She said: 'The first [negative comment] I ever actually saw was, I got my phone back after six and a half weeks and typed in Amy Hart to Twitter and the suggested search results were 'Amy Hart ugly, Amy Hart teeth and Amy Hart fat'.'

Amy appeared alongside Ian Russell on the morning show, whose daughter died by suicide after online trolling.

There have been calls for more regulation from Facebook to protect the safety of young people, and are currently appearing in UK court.

However, although Amy has said she would love to see these organisations be held more accountable, she can also see the reality of the situation.

She said: 'If they banned everyone who posted content they shouldn't post, who trolled who sent death threats they'd pretty much have nobody left, they wouldn't make any money, that's why they won't do it.'

Her appearance on the show comes after she blasted social media firms to MPs for failing to tackle online trolling.

Open: When asked by Richard why she could not just give up Twitter she said that she has to accept that it's her job now

Obsessed: She gave the reason why doesn't give up social media: 'Because on one hand it is my job now and also it is an addiction. You know when you have a toothache and you bite to check it still hurts a little bit'

She also admitted that she has stopped reporting abuse because 'there is no point.'

She said she often receives a 'barrage of messages' attacking her but is told by networks the comments do not break community guidelines and therefore no action is taken.

She told an inquiry into influencer culture she does not believe sites such as Twitter, Facebook and Instagram are doing enough to combat trolling.

Giving evidence to the Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee, Amy recounted the abuse she regularly receives online.

She said: 'I am desensitised but I will say that the [social media] networks are not supportive enough when it comes to trolling.

'I have reported some messages before and they come back saying, 'we have looked at it and it doesn't break community guidelines' and I am like, 'look at that message!'.

Upsetting: Amy appeared alongside Ian Russell on the morning show, whose daughter died by suicide after online trolling

Lovely: Amy cut a stylish figure in a black midi dress with a red floral print as she appeared on the breakfast show

'Look at this barrage of messages someone has sent me before 7 o'clock in the morning telling me how much they hate me, how awful I am, why everyone hates me, how ugly I am.

'From a fake account as well, a trolling account, a burner account, and you are telling me that doesn't break the policy?'

She said she was getting trolled by people who said they are nurses and 'people that have got husbands and children' and one death threat had been traced back to a 13-year-old.

Elsewhere, a previously unlucky-in-love Amy is smitten with model Sam Rason.

The couple went public with their romance last month. Sam is known as the hunk hot cross bun man who appeared in Aldi's Easter 2016 advert.
Her social media channels are littered with sizzling snaps of her hourglass physique.

And Demi Rose turned heads over the weekend when she strutted down Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles in a revealing ensemble, while en route to a photoshoot for online fashion retailer PrettyLittleThing.

The 26-year-old drew attention to her eye-popping cleavage in a blue denim halterneck top with a significant cut-out at the bust, teamed with matching jeans.

Daring: Demi Rose, 26, flaunted her eye-popping cleavage in a revealing denim halterneck top and jeans as she headed to a photoshoot for PrettyLittleThing in Los Angeles over the weekend

Demi draped a brown puffer jacket over her toned shoulders and boosted her height with open-toe heels.

She appeared completely at ease as she strolled down the trendy avenue while listening to music on her AirPods.

The brunette bombshell's long tresses were styled into a high ponytail with waves and several tendrils left out to frame her face.

Turning the street into a runway: Demi boosted her height with open-toe heels and draped a brown puffer jacket over her toned shoulders

Gorgeous: The influencer was primped to perfection with wavy brunette tresses, swept into a high ponytail, with several tendrils left out to frame her face

Flawless: Her makeup was ultra glamorous, consisting of a bronzed complexion, defined brows, a subtle smoky eye and a slick of matte nude lipstick on her plump pout

Her makeup was ultra glamorous, consisting of a bronzed complexion, defined brows, a subtle smoky eye and a slick of matte nude lipstick on her plump pout.

Demi is a social media sensation with over 18 million fans on Instagram, and teases her OnlyFans page where she has ditched her profile's subscription fee for a limited period.

OnlyFans is an online platform, known for its X-rated content, that allows a public figure to charge fans a fee to their profile, where they often share pictures and videos deemed too provocative for other social media sites.

Popular: Demi is a social media sensation with over 18 million fans on Instagram, and teases her OnlyFans page where she has ditched her profile's subscription fee for a limited period

Demi previously charged fans for access to her content - with costs ranging from $22.22 (16) a month or $119.99 (around 86) for six months.

She's not the only famous face who uses the platform, with celebrities including Bella Thorne, Cardi B and Danniella Westbrook signing up to the service.

The Birmingham-born star has been modelling for eight years and credits her career for being a 'blessing' after being subjected to bullying when she was younger.

The latest trend: OnlyFans is an online platform, known for its X-rated content, that allows a public figure to charge fans a fee to their profile, where they often share pictures and videos deemed too provocative for other social media sites

Speaking to Radio 1 Newsbeat, Demi previously revealed: 'I always wanted to get into modelling and when I eventually got there I classed it as a blessing because I grew up being bullied and didn't have many friends at all.'

In 2019, both of Demi's parents died, just seven months apart and the star said going into lockdown straight after their deaths was 'a time of reflection'.

'Having to deal with my parents' house and selling their stuff - it was a really sad place for me,' she said.

'I wanted to go and travel but I had three months in London, which was a lot of facing what I had been through and was a time of reflection.'
George Clooney and Julia Roberts arrived in Sydney, Australia last week ahead of filming their new film, Ticket to Paradise, in Queensland, and were whisked away to luxurious private homes to get through their 14-day mandatory quarantine periods.

But while Julia, 53, and George, 60 - along with wife Amal, 43, and their children - are staying at multi-million dollar mansions, the rest of the cast aren't so lucky.

Two of their co-stars, American Horror Story actress Billie Lourd, 29, and Emily In Paris actor Lucas Bravo, 33, have been documenting their stays at standard mandatory hotel quarantine in Sydney.

Comfortable: George Clooney (left) and Julia Roberts (right) arrived in Sydney, Australia last week ahead of filming their new film, Ticket to Paradise, in Queensland, and were whisked away to luxurious private homes to get through their 14-day mandatory quarantine periods

American star Billie, who is the daughter of the late Carrie Fisher, is locked down in a hotel near Manly with her 11-month old son, Kingston Fisher Lourd Rydell.

Over the past few days, the actress has been posting glimpses at her life in quarantine, including her morning consumption of Tim Tam chocolate biscuits.

'Another day; Same leopard robe; Same early morning Tim Tam,' she wrote across an image taken in the hotel and shared to Instagram Stories.

Locked down: Two of their co-stars, American Horror Story actress Billie Lourd, 29, (left) and Emily In Paris actor Lucas Bravo, 33, (right) have been documenting their stays at standard mandatory hotel quarantine in Sydney

French actor Lucas also shared an Instagram Story of his experience at a Sydney hotel, taking a mirror selfie which he captioned: 'quarantino 5/14' alongside an Australian flag emoji.

Mandatory 14-day hotel quarantine is run by state governments in Australia, and requires the participant to stay inside an often cramped hotel room for two straight weeks without leaving, and usually without going outside at all.

Visitors to Australia must spend two weeks in quarantine due to coronavirus restrictions, however, hotel quarantine exemptions may be granted and arrangements can be made for a private quarantine at a huge personal cost.

George and Julia have their run of palatial homes with stunning views - with Julia located at the upmarket beach suburb of Vaucluse while George spends the two weeks at a vast estate on the NSW South Coast.

Hotel life: Billie is locked down in a hotel near Manly with her 11-month old son, Kingston. Over the past few days, the actress has been posting glimpses at her life in quarantine, including her morning consumption of Tim Tams

Killing time: French actor Lucas also shared an Instagram Story of his experience at a Sydney hotel, taking a mirror selfie which he captioned: 'quarantino 5/14' alongside an Australian flag emoji

The Ocean's Eleven actor and his barrister wife Amal are tucked away in a stunning mansion which is currently being patrolled by armed guards, while multiple chefs, waiters and housekeepers are currently staying with the Clooneys as members of the family's travel bubble.

The couple's four-year-old twins, daughter Ella and son Alexander, have joined their parents.

Hollywood actress Julia, meanwhile, is be spending the next two weeks at a $56.9million mansion in Vaucluse, one of Sydney's most exclusive suburbs.

Oscar winner Julia, 53, is expected to be joined in Australia with her cinematographer husband Danny Moder.

Pedigree: Billie is the daughter of the late Carrie Fisher (left)

Soon: The shoot for romantic comedy Ticket to Paradise is scheduled for two months from mid-November. George and Julia will play a divorced couple who travel to Bali in a desperate bid to stop their daughter, played by Kaitlyn Dever, from getting married

The couple's three children, twins Hazel and Phinnaeus, 16, and son Henry, 13, are also expected to join them.

The shoot for romantic comedy Ticket to Paradise is scheduled for two months from mid-November, with locations on The Gold Coast and Brisbane.

George and Julia will play a divorced couple who travel to Bali in a desperate bid to stop their daughter, played by Kaitlyn Dever, from getting married.

The movie will be filmed entirely in Queensland, with the picturesque Whitsundays doubling for Bali.
Judi Love appears set to return to the Strictly Come Dancing ballroom this weekend after being struck down with coronavirus ahead of last week's show.

The 41-year-old TV personality's name features in this week's routine reveal, as the list confirmed she is set to take on the Cha Cha with her partner Graziano Di Prima.

Judi took to social media on Monday to tell fans she had a 'couple of rough days' battling the virus, which prevented her from performing on Saturday.

She's back! Judi Love appears set to return to the Stricrlt ballroom this weekend after being struck down with coronavirus ahead of last week's show

However Judi looks ready return to the dancefloor once again to Olivia Newton-John's Physical during the Halloween special.

The dances which will honour All Hallows Eve will all embrace the spooky theme, including AJ Odudu and Kai Widdrington, who will dance to Ariana Grande's Dangerous Woman.

Meanwhile, Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice will take to the floor with a sexy Tango to Ed Sheeran's new track, Shivers.

Struggling: Judi took to social media on Monday to tell fans she had a 'couple of rough days' battling the virus, which prevented her from performing on Saturday

It comes after fans speculated the couple's 'break up' routine was a referenced to the breakdown of his relationship with ex Maura Higgins, with whom he recently split.

Elsewere, Sara Davies will be taking part in her first Couple's Choice dance with her partner Aljaz Skorjanec, to Whitney Houston's Queen Of The Night.

Continuing the Halloween them, Tilly Ramsay and Nikita Kuzmin will show off their Cha Cha skills to Gary Paxton's Spooky Moves.

During the show, Adam Peaty and Katya will dance the Viennese Waltz to Ludwig Van Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata and Dan Walk and Nadiya Bychkova will be Jiving to The B-52s Rock Lobster.

Back on track: The 41-year-old TV personality's name features in this week's routine reveal, as the list confirmed she is set to take on the Cha Cha with her partner Graziano Di Prima

NEXT WEEK'S ROUTINE REVEAL AJ & Kai - Viennese Waltz - Dangerous Woman by Ariana Grande Judi & Graziano - Cha Cha - Physical by Olivia Newton-John Rose & Giovanni - Tango - Shivers by Ed Sheeran Sara & Aljaz - Couples Choice - Queen Of The Night by Whitney Houston Tilly & Nikita - Cha Cha - Spooky Movies by Gary Paxton Adam & Katya - Viennese Waltz - Moonlight Sonata by Ludwig Van Beethoven Dan & Nadiya - Jive - Rock Lobster b y The B-52s John & Johannes - Quickstep - Bad Moon Rising by Creedence Clearwater Revival Rhys & Nancy - Paso Doble - The Eve Of The War by Jeff Wayne Tom & Amy - Tango - Highway To Hell by AC/DC Advertisement

After topping the leaderboard last week, John Waite and Johannes Radebe will be hoping for more success with their Quickstep to Bad Moon Rising by Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Rhys Stephenson and Nancy Xu will be hoping to avoid this week's dance off after landing in the bottom two on Sunday, with a Paso Doble to Jeff Wayne's The Eve Of The War.

Last but not least, Tom Fletcher and Amy Dowden will be taking to the floor with a Tango to the tune of AC/DC's Highway to Hell.

Dancing: Meanwhile, Rose Ayling-Ellis and Giovanni Pernice will take to the floor with a sexy Tango to Ed Sheeran's new track, Shivers

Exciting: Elsewere, Sara Davies will be taking part in her first Couple's Choice dance with her partner Aljaz Skorjanec, to Whitney Houston's Queen Of The Night

Meanwhile, Judi posted a frank update from bed as she continues to battle COVID-19 earlier this week.

She old followers in a video that 'coronavirus is real' as she detailed all the 'West Indian' home remedies that she's used to combat her symptoms.

The comedian told fans that she had 'a rough couple of days' and warned them that the prevalence of the illness should prompt them 'to get your health in order'.

Posting a video from her bed, Judi said: 'I don't even know what day it is. Some kind of motivation day.

Candid update: 'I just want to say to you guys, 'Rona is real. I give thanks that I was doing little exercise and dancing thing. I feel like I'm handling it much better than I would have'

'I just want to say to you guys, 'Rona is real. I give thanks that I was doing little exercise and dancing thing. I feel like I'm handling it much better than I would have had if I hadn't been doing little exercise and a little sweat.

'You can hear from my voice, I have done all the West Indian recipes and remedies, for those who are West Indian, especially Jamaicans, you know what I'm talking about. I eat the garlic, onion, the turmeric, the honey - the expensive one, the Manuka one - the ginger, the lime, the lemon, the rum.

'I've had all kind of soup - chicken foot soup, lamb neck soup, red peas, and my voice is still like this and then 'Rona will then turn round to you and say to you, "You know what, on top of that bredrin, I'm not going to make you able to smell or taste."

'I mean, I can't even smell myself and I know some of you need to smell yourself. I just want to say to you, I'm here.

'It's been a rough couple of days and it's really about for you to get your health in order. Health is wealth, and I'm not just talking about catching that cheque. I just mean having that health so you can live at your optimum.

'You can continue creating memories, having life experience, spending time with loved ones as long as possible because Rona... Rona has me locked up in here like I'm the woman from Orange Is The New Black,' the star quipped.

''Rona has got me sleeping out here like someone with no ambition! 'Rona has got me here standing at the window, waving like a Black kid that wants to play on a Sunday and her mum says, "You're mad!" That's what 'Rona is doing to me!

She even joked: 'I mean, Rona has got you coughing so hard you're begging for a sponsorship from Tena Ladies'

She continued to joke: 'I mean, Rona has got you coughing so hard you're begging for a sponsorship from Tena Ladies!

''Rona will take you away from your family and you miss then even though you're in the yard with them. And I mean, some of you are living that life anyway, some of you are locked down in your room, in your laptop, in your phone to the point where you forget you've got family next door. Spend time with them because 'Rona won't miss that opportunity.

'I mean, 'Rona is acting like a player. 'Rona is going from that body to this body, making you think that it's not going to everybody but really it's spreading about in everybody and you're not the only one!

''Rona is out here like a Tyrone. Like I said, look after yourself. Not just because of 'Rona but just in general. Your health is your wealth.

'I just want to say thank you for all your well wishes. Love you,' she signed off.

Another chance: The presenter will be given a free pass to compete in the show the following week- providing she has a negative Covid test

The presenter, who was due to perform the Cha-cha with dance partner Graziano, 27, was given a free pass to compete in the show the following week- providing she has a negative Covid test.

Judi is the second star to miss a live show due to catching Covid, with McFly's Tom, 36, and his dance partner Amy, 31, missing out on week two of the series.

A Strictly spokesperson said: 'Judi Love has tested positive for Covid-19 and is now self-isolating following the latest government guidelines.

'While Judi and Graziano will not be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this weekend, Strictly Come Dancing protocols mean that all being well, they will return the following week.'

Not alone: Judi is the second star to miss a live show due to catching Covid, with McFly's Tom Fletcher, 36, and his dance partner Amy Dowden, 31, missing out on week two of the series

A source told MailOnline that Graziano has not tested positive for Covid-19.

Her absence comes just weeks after fellow contestant Tom and his professional partner Amy were forced to pull out of the competition in week two after they too tested positive for the virus.

This year's Strictly stars are subject to regular Covid tests, and are required to maintain social distancing at all times during filming.

The couples have formed Covid-safe bubbles for training and performances, but are prohibited from mixing.

This year the government's Covid guidelines changed, meaning anyone who tests positive is only required to isolate for 10 days, and if contestants are double vaccinated they can end their isolating in eight days if they test negative for Covid.

Strictly's run of bad luck continued last week as rugby star Ugo Monye was forced to pull out of the show due to injury.

The rugby union player, 38, - who is partnered with Oti Mabuse - took to Twitter to reveal to fans that he was suffering from 'back problems' but would be back the week after.

Ugo's announcement came just a day after Robert Webb bowed out of the show, admitting he had 'bitten off more than he could chew', having an ongoing heart condition two years after undergoing open-heart surgery.
Claire Danes cut a casual figure with wet hair in a grey hoodie dress as she stepped out for a salad in New York City on Monday.

The Romeo and Juliet star, 42, went make up free for the outing, while looking very relaxed in the snug ensemble which fell down to her calf.

Taking the comfy look further, she opted for charcoal Birkenstock clogs while carrying a black backpack.

Chilled: Claire Danes, 42, cut a casual figure with wet hair in a grey hoodie dress as she stepped out for a salad in New York City on Monday

Claire held the salad in her hand while walking along the Manhattan street as her blonde bob was still wet from the shower.

She carried her phone in the other hand while she framed her face with clear rimmed spectacles.

Claire is married to fellow actor Hugh Dancy, and shares two children, eight-year-old Cyrus and three-year-old Rowan, with him.

Stylish: The Romeo and Juliet star went make up free on the errand while looking very relaxed in the snug ensemble which fell down to her mid-calf

Running errands: Taking the comfy look further, she opted for charcoal Birkenstock clogs while carrying a black backpack

While the two are happily married now, the actress had other crushes including one which one of her former co-stars dished on in her recently released memoir.

Legendary British actress Miriam Margolyes, who starred as the Nurse alongside Claire Danes' Juliet in the 1996 film Romeo + Juliet, recently opened up about her time working with the star and her Romeo, Leonardo DiCaprio.

The 80-year-old said she never 'had such fun' as going shopping with DiCaprio though she wasn't as happy with the way he treated his character's romantic interest when the cameras weren't rolling.

'It was obvious to all of us that she really was in love with her Romeo, but Leonardo wasn't in love with her,' the actress wrote in her book. 'She wasn't his type at all.'

Apparently the Academy Award winner didn't know how to handle his co-star's intense affection, and it led to him being dismissive to his Juliet.

'He wasn't sensitive to her feelings, was dismissive of her and could be quite nasty in his keenness to get away, while Claire was utterly sincere and so open.'

Family: Claire is married to fellow actor Hugh Dancy, and shares two children, eight-year-old Cyrus and three-year-old Rowan, with him; pictured earlier this month

For her part, Danes addressed her crush in a 2018 interview with W magazine.

'Yes. That was problematic. I couldn't really have a crush on the guy I was professionally having a crush on!' the Me and Orson Welles star said.

Danes isn't just known for her romantic entanglements though. The actress has maintained a busy professional life.

Tell-all memoir: Miriam Margolyes, seen here in 2011, opened up about Danes' and DiCaprio's offscreen relationship during the shooting of Romeo + Juliet in her new memoir

Most recently, she worked on six episodes of The Essex Serpent, a television miniseries that wrapped shooting in late June.

The U Turn actress will star as Cora, a newly widowed woman who moves to a small town in Essex where there are mutterings of an ancient and terrifying creature.

Loki star Tom Hiddleston and In the Heart of the Sea actor Frank Dillane will appear opposite the actress.
Kim Kardashian says her family's upcoming Hulu show will show a 'different side' to her life.

The Kardashian and Jenner clan's iconic reality TV series Keeping Up with the Kardashians ended after 14 years and 20 seasons on E! in June, and the Skims, KKW Beauty and KKW Fragrance founder has revealed fans can expect a focus on her professional life, including her businesses and law studies.

The 41-year-old businesswoman and reality star - who has been named WSJ. Magazine's 2021 Brand Innovator for Upcoming Innovator Awards - told the publication: 'I think it will be a different side.'

So different: Kim Kardashian says her family's upcoming Hulu show will show a 'different side' to her life

'But I wouldn't say that our silly sides are not going to come out.'

The family signed a multi-year content deal with Hulu.

Kim, Kourtney Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, and matriarch Kris Jenner will feature on the Disney-owned streaming platform in the US and, Star, the international streaming service by Disney.

Does this sound riveting? The Kardashian and Jenner clan's iconic reality TV series Keeping Up with the Kardashians ended after 14 years and 20 seasons on E! in June, and the Skims, KKW Beauty and KKW Fragrance founder has revealed fans can expect a focus on her professional life, including her businesses and law studies

Early days of KUWTK: from left, Khloe Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Kim Kardashian, Kourtney Kardashian and Kylie Jenner attends the 2011 Teen Choice Awards at Gibson Amphitheatre in 2011 in Universal City, California

Fans can also expect to see Kourtney, 42, and her fiance Travis Barker's engagement on the show.

The 45-year-old Blink-182 rocker proposed at the Rosewood Miramar in Montecito, California, over the weekend, and the magical moment was caught on camera.

A source explained: 'Since this is Kourtney's first engagement, it's of course a big deal. Most of her family was there to celebrate. Two of Travis' kids were there too. They enjoyed a private, family dinner at the hotel.'

Kravis will bring the heat: Fans can also expect to see Kourtney, 42, and her fiance Travis Barker's engagement on the show. The 45-year-old Blink-182 rocker proposed at the Rosewood Miramar in Montecito, California, over the weekend, and the magical moment was caught on camera. Seen in Brooklyn in September

The new Kourtney: She has a new fiance, a sexy new look, and is besties with Megan Fox, making her the most interesting Kardashian at the moment

Elsewhere in the interview, the mother-of-four - who has North, eight, Saint, five, Chicago, three, and Psalm, two, with 44-year-old rap legend Kanye West - revealed that her estranged husband has a hand in her businesses.

She said: 'He has a piece of Skims himself and gives [the team] inspiration but also information.'

Kim - who recently joked that she split from the 'Stronger' hitmaker because of his personality while hosting 'Saturday Night Live' -declared: 'Kanye will always be the most inspirational person to me.'
Rylan Clark was in high spirits as he stepped out for his glamorous 33rd birthday celebrations holding a bottle of beer on Monday.

The television personality celebrated the occasion at a London restaurant with a group of close friends including the comedian Tom Allen.

Rylan opted for a crisp white shirt and black skinny jeans and wore a glittery sash which read 'birthday princess' across it.

Birthday princess! Rylan Clark was in high spirits as he stepped out for his glamorous 33rd birthday celebrations holding a bottle of beer on Monday

Rylan had his hands full on the outing holding gifts which included a milk frother and a bag from luxury candle brand Diptyque.

Rylan also toted a black holdall on his hand while dancing around as he headed to a taxi for his birthday dinner.

He opted for black cowboy boots on his feet, while he had a perfectly coiffed quiff and neat beard.

Happy: The television personality danced his way to his celebrations at a London restaurant with a slew of his friends

Having a blast: The It Takes Two presenter opted for a crisp white shirt and black skinny jeans and wore a glittery sash which read 'birthday princess' across it

Showered with presents: He had his hands full on the outing holding gifts which included a milk frother and a bag from luxury candle brand Diptyque

When in the restaurant, he celebrated by drinking glasses of red wine and chatting with his pals.

He appeared to be deep in conversation with the gaggle of friends who enjoyed sipping on alcoholic beverages.

After the party was over at around 11pm, Rylan carried his birthday cake, which was in the shape of false teeth, and stepped into a taxi with his make up artist friend Bernice Cole.

Fun! Rylan also toted a black holdall on his hand while frolicking about

Forgetting the troubles: Rylan let his hair down for the outing, after his recent split from husband Dan Neal

On the way! He then stepped into a waiting car to take him to the celebrations

Spoilt! Peeping out of the top of the white bag was a box of chocolates from Hotel Chocolat

Rylan also celebrated his birthday on Saturday night with a wild party at his home which saw Lizzie Cundy was in attendance.

His birthday celebrations come after he made a cryptic joke about his newly-single life during a humorous appearance on Have I Got New For You on Friday night.

The presenter quipped: 'I've come across a lot of idiots this year!' alluding to his use of and eventual ban from Tinder following his marriage split with husband Dan Neal.

Pals: He celebrated with friends including comedian Tom Allen

Raising a glass: When in the restaurant, he celebrated by drinking glasses of red wine and chatting with his pals

Catching up: He looked as if he was having very deep chats with the gaggle of friends who enjoyed sipping on alcoholic beverages

Funny: His birthday celebrations come after he made a cryptic joke about his newly-single life during a humorous appearance on Have I Got New For You on Friday night

The star recently revealed he was banned from Tinder after the dating app mistakenly thought he was a catfish.

Rylan took to his Instagram Stories and shared a snap that showed his profile had been deleted for violating the app's terms of service.

Rylan captioned the photo: 'Catfish' along with a laughing emoji.

Cryptic: The presenter quipped: 'I've come across a lot of idiots this year!' alluding to his use of and eventual ban from Tinder following his marriage split with husband Dan Neal

Oops! The star recently revealed he was banned from Tinder after the dating app mistakenly thought he was a catfish

Funny: Rylan took to his Instagram Stories and shared a snap that showed his profile had been deleted for violating the app's terms of service

According to The Mirror, Rylan's Tinder profile read: 'Tall normal bloke - 6'4' - am I actually on this thing?'

At the Attitude Awards earlier this month, Rylan joked about joining gay dating app Grindr following his split.

He said: 'Sorry, I was a little bit distracted. I was trying to download Grindr. It's been 10 years! What a year.'

Hilarious: Rylan captioned the photo: 'Catfish' along with a laughing emoji

Getting out ther: According to The Mirror, Rylan's Tinder profile read: 'Tall normal bloke - 6'4' - am I actually on this thing?'

Dating: At the Attitude Awards earlier this month, Rylan joked about joining gay dating app Grindr following his split

He appeared to reference his marriage split in the speech and thanked Steps star Claire Richards for supporting him.

Taking to Twitter last week, he assured his fans that he is 'good' by writing: 'Couple of news stories today. Be assured, I'm good. I wasn't, but I am now x'.

The reassurance came after Rylan was said to have 'broke down during his Radio 2 show' last month which led to producers 'holding a crisis meeting'.

Funny: He said: 'Sorry, I was a little bit distracted. I was trying to download Grindr. It's been 10 years! What a year'

Friends: He appeared to reference his marriage split in the speech and thanked Steps star Claire Richards for supporting him

Split: In June, Rylan broke his silence to say: 'Following reports about Dan and I spending time apart, I feel I have to speak out as the way it is being reported is unfair'

Rylan - who is set to divorce Dan after fighting to save their six-year marriage - stepped down from his BBC Radio 2 show for four months following their split earlier this year and had raised concerns his return to work was too hasty.

In June, Rylan broke his silence to say: 'Following reports about Dan and I spending time apart, I feel I have to speak out as the way it is being reported is unfair.

'I have made a number of mistakes which I deeply regret and have inevitably led to the breakdown of our marriage.'

Chattering away: While at the restaurant he held onto the sash while talking to his friends

Enjoying himself: Rylan seemed to be having a very good time

Stumbling around: Rylan looked a little bit off balance as he got up from his chair

Novelty confectionary: His cake was in the shape of false teeth

Sources close to Rylan told The Mail on Sunday the couple tried to reconcile at their marital home after he spent much of the summer with his mother, Linda, who appears on his Saturday afternoon Radio 2 show.

The couple married in 2015 at Braxted Park in Essex with guests including his This Morning co-stars Ruth Langsford and Eamonn Holmes.

They met in 2013 and got engaged in Paris. In July 2016, they stepped in for Mr Holmes and Ms Langsford, becoming the first gay couple to present the ITV programme.

Worse for wear? After the party was over at around 11pm, Rylan stumbled out the eatery

Home time! He then stepped into a taxi with his make up artist friend Bernice Cole

Fun times: He made sure to grip hold of his beer while in he vehicle
Molly Mae Hague spoke of her fear over staying at home alone and tightened security in her home just weeks before her horror burglary.

At around 10pm on Thursday 21 October, while the influencer, 22, and Tommy Fury, 21, were in London at her Beauty Works Christmas launch, an 'experienced gang' targeted their flat in Hale, Manchester and stole 800k worth of goods.

In chilling foresight earlier this month, Molly revealed that while her boyfriend was away she was staying at her manager's home, while in April she revealed 'a few incidents' led her to employing a high-profile security detail.

When her boxer boyfriend had flown to America for his brother and fellow boxer Tyson Fury's victorious fight with Deontay Wilder Molly admitted she would not stay in her apartment alone despite upping her security back in April.

Fears: Molly Mae Hague spoke of her fear over staying at home alone and tightened security in her home just weeks before her horror burglary

In April, speaking of her heightened security, she said: 'I'm not sure I've mentioned this before but I now have to pay a lot of money a month for an extremely high security for the apartment.

'I had a few incidents, I just don't really feel safe anywhere anymore. I didn't feel safe in our last apartment, I don't really feel safe here...

'I don't really feel safe anywhere anymore because I just feel like no matter how much you try and keep your life private, when you're in the public eye your life is never private.'

On Monday, MailOnline exclusively revealed news of the couple's break-in.

At the event: At around 10pm on Thursday 21 October, while the influencer, 22, and boxer, 21, were in London at her Beauty Works Christmas launch, an 'experienced gang' targeted their flat in Hale, Manchester and stole the vast quantity of goods (the couple pictured at the event)

Fears: In chilling foresight earlier this month, Molly revealed that while her boyfriend was away she was staying at her manager's home, while in April she revealed 'a few incidents' led her to employing a high-profile security detail

Sources revealed to MailOnline that the couple will 'never return' to the property after being left 'extremely shaken up' and terrified by the crime.

The insider said: 'They will never return back to their apartment again unfortunately they feel they have been targeted and don't feel safe there any more. They really loved living there its a shame they have been forced out of their home.'

While Molly Mae and Tommy partied in London, the gang descended on their block of flats, in which there are five other properties.

An insider detailed: 'It seems to be an experienced gang who know what theyre doing as they have had machinery and waited for Molly and Tommy to be away...

Terror: When her boxer boyfriend had flown to America for his brother and fellow boxer Tyson Fury's victorious fight with Deontay Wilder Molly admitted she would not stay in her apartment alone despite upping her security back in April

'They have approached the property from the rear and smashed through their balcony windows and doors to gain access to their apartment. There is five apartments in the block but other neighbours were out too...

'They have stolen approx 800k worth of belongings leaving them with nothing left other than what they had on them in their suitcases in London on the night of event..

'Molly was pictured that night when the robbery happened at her Beauty Works x Molly Mae event in London. They seemed to have got scared off and departed quickly possible across the park at the back. Its called Halecroft Park.'

Heartache: In the wake of the incident, a representative for Molly told MailOnline: 'Molly is doing well considering the circumstances. It has been a very distressing time but she is trying to be as positive as possible' (the couple are pictured in their flat earlier this year)

In the wake of the incident, a representative for Molly told MailOnline: 'Molly is doing well considering the circumstances. It has been a very distressing time but she is trying to be as positive as possible'.

A representative for Greater Manchester Police told MailOnline: 'On Friday 22 October 2021 police received a report of a burglary at a property in the Hale Barns area...

During the burglary a number of items were taken, including jewellery. Enquiries are ongoing and no arrests have been made.'
Brandon Lee's family is calling for real guns to be banned from film sets.

In 1993, Brandon - who was just 28 - was killed by a prop gun while filming The Crow and his fiancee Eliza Hutton said that cinematographer Halyna Hutchins' accidental death last week on Rust was an 'avoidable tragedy.' she told People.

Eliza 'urges' those with the power to make the changes to 'consider alternatives to real guns on set.'

Throwback: Brandon Lee's family is calling for real guns to be banned from film sets. In 1993, Brandon - who was just 28 - was killed by a prop gun while filming 'The Crow' and his fiancee Eliza Hutton said that cinematographer Haylna Hutchins' accidental death last week on Rust was an 'avoidable tragedy.' she told People; Eliza Hutton with Brandon Lee at the Little Man Tate Hollywood premiere on October 6, 1991

Eliza told the outlet: Twenty eight years ago, I was shattered by the shock and grief of losing the love of my life, Brandon Lee, so senselessly. My heart aches again now for Halyna Hutchins' husband and son, and for all those left in the wake of this avoidable tragedy.'

Brandon, the son of Bruce Lee, and Eliza were set to wet on April 17, 1993 in Ensenada, Mexico a week after Brandon was supposed to wrap filming for The Crow.

However on March 31, 1993 Brandon died at age 28 after he was accidently killed while filming a scene for the movie.

It occurred when a prop gun that contained a real bullet was shot by a co-star during a scene.

RIP: Eliza 'urges' those with the power to make the changes to 'consider alternatives to real guns on set;' Halyna pictured

Brandon and Eliza first met in 1990 when she was a personal assistant, with the duo moving in together in early 1991 and getting engaged the year after.

Eliza's interview comes days after Brandon's sister Shannon admitted Halyna's accidental death on the set of Rust this week, has brought it all back.

She told The Hollywood Reporter: "I have been in contact with my mom and with my brothers fiancee. A lot of people have been reaching out. Its stirring up a lot of emotions  and frustration.

I think that in this day and age with all the special effects that are possible and all of the technology, there is no reason to have a prop gun or a gun on a set that can fire a projectile of any sort. It is not necessary, and I would love to see some changes made industry-wide. My brothers fiancee and I have been talking about it. I think we wish we had thought to do more 28 years ago, and we would love to do that now."

The way they were: Brandon and Eliza first met in 1990 when she was a personal assistant, with the duo moving in together in early 1991 and getting engaged the year after; seen September 24, 1992 at The Last of the Mohicans premiere in Hollywood together

Memories: Brandon, the son of Bruce Lee, and Eliza were set to wet on April 17, 1993 in Ensenada, Mexico a week after Brandon was supposed to wrap filming for The Crow; seen together on September 24, 1992

Alec Baldwin, Rust star and producer, discharged the gun that killed Halyna and injured director Joel Souza and Shannon revealed her 'heart goes out' to Alec after the accidental killing.

She said: 'There are rules that are supposed to be followed. I am certainly not pointing fingers at anyone because that would be the wrong thing to do. But, there is no reason for something like this to happen.'

'My heart goes out to Alec Baldwin. I feel for the work he is going to have to do to process this and try to find some measure of peace around it. And even more so for the family of Halyna Hutchins. Its having your whole world flip upside down. There should be compassion for all the pain everyone is going through.'
Strictly Come Dancing judge Shirley Ballas has shared an update on her health after undergoing 'full blood work' to determine the cause of a lump under her arm, after it was noticed by eagle-eyed viewers.

The former Latin champion, 61, shared an Instagram video on Tuesday where she admitted the results, and in particular her hormone levels, are 'a little concerning'.

Revealing how her oestrogen levels are 'extremely low' and her adrenal glands and ovaries are in need of 'a scan', Shirley said she's booked in for an appointment at King's College Hospital in London.

'It's a little concerning': Shirley Ballas, 61, revealed in an Instagram video on Tuesday that she's to undergo more tests in hospital over worrying blood work and hormone levels

Addressing her fans directly in the video, Shirley said that her doctor determined her hormone levels 'were not right' and would need to undergo 'a lot of blood work'.

'I went and had a lot of blood work done and now the testosterone's coming back ultra high, the adrenal glands need a scan and my ovaries need a scan. My oestrogen levels are extremely low. All in all a little concerning for my doctor,' she revealed.

Shirley said the next step is to attend an appointment at the King's College Hospital, and is incredibly grateful that 'several concerned people bothered' to let her know what was going on, in reference to Strictly viewers noticing the lump under her arm.

Seeking help: Shirley was first alerted to the problem after Strictly viewers flooded her social media with messages about a lump they had spotted under her armpit

'I love you all. I appreciate you, and thank you,' she concluded her clip.

Shirley reiterated these sentiments in the post's caption, which read: 'To each and every one of you who started me on this road, thank you so much. I'll keep you all updated each and every one of you.

'Remember health is wealth so I'll be on top of these issues for the time being. With gratitude to you all,' she wrote, alongside the hashtags 'health' and 'gratitude'.

More tests: Revealing how her oestrogen levels are 'extremely low' and her adrenal glands and ovaries are in need of 'a scan', Shirley said she's booked in for an appointment at King's College Hospital in London

Last week, Shirley visited her doctor to have the legion checked over after feeling what appeared to be a 'tiny little node' in her armpit.

In an Instagram post, the dance professional revealed to fans that she was having 'full blood work' done at the hospital to find out more.

She wrote at the time: 'Dear All thank you so much for making me aware of a lump you all saw under my arm. I am so grateful to have so many beautiful kind caring humans looking out for me.

Awareness: The former Latin champion had a lump under her right arm checked out by her doctor last week

Keeping her fans updated: Shirley reiterated these sentiments in the post's caption, which read: 'To each and every one of you who started me on this road, thank you so much. I'll keep you all updated each and every one of you'

Getting checked: Last week, Shirley visited her doctor to have the legion checked over after feeling what appeared to be a 'tiny little node' in her armpit

'I will be popping to the hospital Friday for full blood work. Hormones could be the reason for exhaustion, sleepless nights and a few more things going on.

'I'm so happy I went for a check up today. Ladies let me know how your hormones are? Do you self check? Hugs to all,' she said, alongside the hashtags 'breast check' and 'hormones'.

In a video, Shirley added that a doctor did an underarm and breast test but didn't feel anything.

But she said the doctor did think she saw something when the dancer lifted her arm.

She said: 'I popped to the doctor, she did an underarm test and breast test. She couldn't feel anything although she also thought that she saw something when I lifted my arm up so... maybe it was cameras, lighting, not sure.'

Shirley took to Instagram on Saturday to reveal she was inundated with messages of concern by fans of the show.

Shirley captioned the video shared to the site: 'So many messages over the last three weeks about suspected lump under my right arm.

'I have done a self-check and will go to my Dr on Tuesday. Thank you to those who reached out with their concerns.

'To all be vigilant and do self checks regularly,' she continued, alongside hashtags including 'self check', 'nodes' and 'breast cancer awareness'.

Shirley also shared the messages of concern she had received.

One person wrote: 'I don't want to alarm you but you have lump in your right arm pit, please get it checked out.'

Another person wrote: 'I know you must get a lot of messages but can I just say you looked really beautiful tonight. As I've just went through cancer can I ask if you could get your lymph nodes checked under your arm as I noticed a lump under your arm tonight watching. Sorry, just worried.'

Voice of concern: The head judge on the BBC One celebrity dance contest took to Instagram to reveal she was inundated with messages of concern by fans

'Lymph node R armpit,' wrote another person. 'Dear Shirley you are wonderful. I noticed tonight you had a visible raised lymph node in your R armpit.

'You may already be aware but I just wanted you to consider getting it checked. It could be due to something very minor like a virus or infection, but please get it checked.'

While another person wrote: 'I genuinely don't want to upset or alarm you, but I noticed while watching the show tonight that it looks like you've got a lump in your right armpit. Please check it.

'I would hate for it to be something and I hadn't said anything. Thanks for being wonderful on the show.'

Speaking out: Shirley captioned a clip on Instagram: 'So many messages over the last three weeks about suspected lump under my right arm'

In 2019, the choreographer underwent a four-hour operation to have her breast implants removed due to cancer fears.

WHY DO WE GET LUMPS? Most people get lumps and growths on their skin at some point. They can be caused by many things. See a GP if: Your lump gets bigger Your lump is painful, red or hot Your lump is hard and doesn't move A lump grows back after it's been removed You have a lump in the breast or testicles You have a swelling on the side of the neck, armpit or groin that doesn't go down Source: NHS Advertisement

She said at the time that she hopes young women will learn to love their own bodies, rather than get 'all these procedures'.

She said: 'Don't think you need to have these procedures to make you look more attractive.

'For young women, if someone is making you feel bad about yourself, talk to someone. But don't do what I did.

'You can't make somebody love you, no matter what you do to yourself. You can get implants, you can get all these procedures, thinking you will be more of a woman for that person. But it does not make a difference.

'If they don't love you, they won't no matter what you do to your appearance. It's learning to love yourself.'

Shirley made the decision to remove her DD breast implants and embrace her natural A cup after she discovered a potentially dangerous capsule that had grown unexpectedly.

And for those still considering implants, the TV star urged them to 'do their research' into the possible risks.

She added: 'Do your research about the implants. I did not do mine. I thought if I put them in I'd look better and my husband would think of me as more desirable.

'I made this choice many years ago not understanding what I was really doing, except telling myself I didn't look good enough.'

In June this year, Shirley suffered another cancer scare after finding a lump in her shoulder.

Speaking on GB News, Shirley explained she's had two other cancer scares in the past, and is anxiously awaiting the results of her tests.

Eagle-eyed: Shirley was sent messages by concerned Strictly Come Dancing fans after they noticed the lump under her arm while watching the show

She said: 'I got the Covid virus and then they found a ganglion cyst or a tumour in my shoulder.

'I am going backwards and forwards to the hospital all the time. I feel I seem to be getting sicker by the minute. I can't seem to get up and out. It's something between two bones and they are not really sure what it is yet.

'They have done the dye and the MRIs plus this and that. I get the results in a few weeks. The gentleman seems to think it will be fine but, still, it is worrying.'

Shirley has a history of cancer in her family, with her mum Audrey diagnosed with colon cancer in 2019, while grandmother and aunt have both battled the disease.
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A chic modernist compound that once belonged to Kanye West is back on the market for $3.7 million.

The 44-year-old rapper  who has now legally changed his name to Ye  lived in the house in the early years of his career. It is located high in the Hollywood Hills, and he is said to have briefly lived there with estranged wife Kim Kardashian, 41.

Kanye's 4,200-square-foot former house, which is listed by Myles Lewis of Compass, was most recently owned by businessman Rufus Hankey, son of billionaire Don Hankey.

For sale! A Hollywood Hills home formerly owned by Kanye West, 44, is back on the market for $3.7 million. The rapper purchased the home in 2003, before he had released his first LP

The listing advertises the boxy home's 'unobstructed jetliner views' reaching from Downtown Los Angeles all the way to the Pacific Ocean.

The miles-long hillside views will also make entertaining outdoors a pleasure, and the modest fenced-in back lawn for relaxing with friends or stargazing in the evening.

There's also a small outdoor dining table tucked away to the side for enjoying a meal as the heat dissipates in the evening, or to breakfast as the sun rises.

The property has plenty of privacy thanks to a gate surrounding the front entrance, and the home boasts a striking all-concrete facade that will appeal to fans of Brutalist architecture.

Storage: Kanye briefly lived in the 4,200-square-foot home with Kim Kardashian, 41, early in their relationship, but they quickly moved into a larger Bel Air mansion. They kept the home until 2017 as storage for her expanding closet; seen in 2019

Current owner: The property, which is listed by Myles Lewis of Compass , was most recently owned by businessman Rufus Hankey, son of billionaire Don Hankey

Gorgeous: The listing advertises the boxy home's 'unobstructed jetliner views' reaching from Downtown Los Angeles all the way to the Pacific Ocean

The home still features a variety of Kanye West touches, including its mostly white color scheme, and Hankey doesn't appear to have changed much since purchasing the home from Kanye in 2017.

The rapper bought the home in December 2003, before his debut LP had been released and when he was better known as a producer.

He redid the home after purchasing, giving it the Brutalist exterior and minimalist interior design.

The three-bedroom, four-bathroom home was briefly shared with Kim Kardashian early in her relationship with Kanye, but the two soon moved out to a much larger Bel Air mansion, but the Hollywood Hills home stayed in Kanye's portfolio as a storage space for Kim's swelling closet.

The couple bought their Hidden Hills home in 2014, but it wasn't until 2017 that they moved in after renovations, at which point Kanye sold his Hollywood Hills compound for just under $3 million.

Staying the course: The home still features a variety of Kanye West touches, including its mostly white color scheme, and Hankey doesn't appear to have changed much since purchasing the home from Kanye in 2017

Spacious: Despite its imposing exterior, the home has an inviting feel thanks to its light colors and abundant windows with plenty of natural light

Wide open: The hardwood floors add a touch of elegance to the property, and the open floor plan adds to its spacious feel

Nothing to see here: Compared to other luxury homes, it features a relatively minimalist kitchen, with a sink, gas range and oven built into a dark wood island

Despite its imposing exterior, the home has an inviting feel thanks to its light colors and abundant windows with plenty of natural light.

The hardwood floors add a touch of elegance to the property, and the open floor plan adds to its spacious feel.

The formal living room is a cozy space for unwinding during the evening or entertaining, and it has easy access and views of the dining room and the kitchen.

Compared to other luxury homes, it features a relatively minimalist kitchen, with a sink, gas range and oven built into a dark wood island.

The dining room features a pristine view of the city and has abundant natural light during the day.

There's also a smaller sitting room that would be ideal for unwinding with a book at any time of day.

Brightly lit: The dining room features a pristine view of the city and has abundant natural light during the day

Taking it easy: There's also a smaller sitting room that would be ideal for unwinding with a book at any time of day

Ideal setup: Movies are are important to Kanye, who bragged last year that he watches Blade Runner 2049 'on repeat,' so his former home naturally has a screening room with a project and a cozy seating arrangement

Stunning: The 'Tulum-modern' compound's minimalist master bedroom has some of the best views off the home thanks to its enormous picture window, which would be ideal for anyone looking to rise with the sun

Movies are are important to Kanye, who bragged last year that he watches Blade Runner 2049 'on repeat,' so his former home naturally has a screening room with a project and a cozy seating arrangement.

The 'Tulum-modern' compound's minimalist master bedroom has some of the best views off the home thanks to its enormous picture window, which would be ideal for anyone looking to rise with the sun.

It includes an opulent marbled master bathroom that includes a soaking tub with its own large window, as well as sleek sink furnishings and a gorgeous chandelier.

Elegant: It includes an opulent marbled master bathroom that includes a soaking tub with its own large window

Gorgeous decorations: It also features sleek sink furnishings and a gorgeous chandelier

Plenty of room: Another bedroom on the second floor is nearly as spacious as the master bedroom

Views: It has a series of smaller windows spanning one wall that provide excellent light and views in multiple directions, as well as a lovely chandelier tucked away in the corner

Spreading out: Its large bathroom includes a larger sink area

Another bedroom on the second floor is nearly as spacious as the master bedroom.

It has a series of smaller windows spanning one wall that provide excellent light and views in multiple directions.

The room features a lovely dangling chandelier tucked aside in the corner, and its large bathroom includes a larger sink area.

An office area featured a long couch and more views that could be distracting.

Getting work done: An office area featured a long couch and more views that could be distracting

Out in nature: The lower level has another bedroom, this one with a doorway out to a deck to take in the views unobstructed

Nothing to see here: It continues the minimalist pattern with its bathroom, which features a stylish sink area and shower. It doesn't have the excellent views that the other bathrooms boast, though the bedroom's view should make up for that

The lower level has another bedroom, this one with a doorway out to a deck to take in the views unobstructed.

It continues the minimalist pattern with its bathroom, which features a stylish sink area and shower.

It doesn't have the excellent views that the other bathrooms boast, though the bedroom's view should make up for that.

Since selling the luxurious Hollywood Hills home, Kanye has moved on to a variety of properties.

Although Kim reportedly is keeping their Hidden Hills home in the divorce, Kanye owns two large Wyoming ranches, and last month People reported that he had purchased a Malibu property on the beach for almost $60 million.
Selma Blair is releasing a memoir titled Mean Baby.

The 49-year-old star's book will feature stories from her childhood as well as about living with Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic neurological disease.

Selma's book is set to be released in April 2022 from Knopf Press.

The latest: Selma Blair is releasing a memoir titled Mean Baby. The 49-year-old star's book will feature stories from her childhood as well as about living with Multiple Sclerosis, a chronic neurological disease; seen October 14, 2021 at a screening of Introducing: Selma Blair

Mean Baby will be released in a hardcover version, as well as an eBook and audiobook version, narrated by Selma.

The star's book title comes from a family reference about her.

Selma said that she 'was a disagreeable child with a terrible disposition,' hence the title Mean Baby, she told People.

She would also bite her three older sisters when she was a child, which was another reason behind her title.

A memoir: Selma's book is set to be released in April 2022 from Knopf Press; seen in her documentary

Selma recalled that her 'childhood' was 'spent in worship of her mother, an adolescence of love and pain, her destructive ways of coping with an illness she did not known she had, her life as a model and muse, her struggles and successes in Hollywood, and her battle with depression as a young mother,' per the outlet.

Selma, who has 10-year-old son Arthur with ex Jason Bleick, said that since doing a stem cell transplant in 2019 she is seeing 'huge improvements' in her MS symptoms, she said in an earlier People interview.

She spoke about her MS and how she uses deals with body flare ups: 'My version of MS really screws with my mind. It's triggered by my own emotions and fears, adrenaline, as well as lights and sounds. I am working on those things.'

Adding: 'If you see me start to shake, it means my nerves got big. Getting into a ball for a minute and resetting myself helps. Or I'll jump into the cold pool and swim.'

Selma's documentary, Introducing, Selma Blair is currently streaming on discovery+ and in theaters.

Family is everything: Selma, who has 10-year-old son Arthur with ex Jason Bleick, said that since doing a stem cell transplant in 2019 she is seeing 'huge improvements,' she said in an earlier People interview; seen

Selma, who was born in Michigan, began her acting career in the mid-1990s after 75 auditions, getting a TV ad.

She later landed a spot in a children's television show in 1995 before getting a role in a film in 1997.

Her breakthrough role came in 1999 in the coming of age drama Cruel Intentions alongside Sarah Michell Gellar, Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe.
Renee Zellweger continued to showcase her remarkable transformation into murderer Pam Hupp on set of The Thing About Pam on Monday.

The actress, 52, is starring in the NBC true crime limited series that is based on the real-life story of Betsy Faria's murder in 2011.

Renee is executive-producing the drama through her production company, Big Picture Co. and will play convicted killer Hupp, which entails her wearing a controversial fat suit for the role.

Looking worlds away from her glamorous Hollywood self, Renee emerged in a snowy backdrop while sporting warm winter clothes.

Changes: Renee Zellweger continued to showcase her remarkable transformation into murderer Pam Hupp on set of The Thing About Pam on Monday

Pam's friend Betsy was killed two days after Christmas at her home in Troy, Missouri in 2011. Hupp was the last person to see Faria alive as she gave her a ride home.

According to court documents, Pam waited until Betsy was weak and lethargic from chemotherapy treatments before she stabbed her 55 times.

Hupp then dipped Faria's socks in blood which she spread around the house in order to frame Betsy's husband Russ, who found his wife's body when he returned home from his weekly game night with his friends.



In July 2021, Hupp, who is already serving a life sentence for shooting a disabled man dead, plead not guilty to Faria's murder.

Changes: Looking worlds away from her glamorous Hollywood self, Renee emerged in a snowy backdrop while sporting warm winter clothes

Unbelievable transformation: Renee pictured in April this year (left) and in her new gritty role earlier this month (right)

Prosecutors have alleged that Hupp murdered Faria days after after convincing her to switch a $150,000 life insurance policy to her.

Russ, who will be played by Glenn Fleshler in the series, was initially convicted of his wife's murder in 2013 and sentenced to life in prison.

His conviction was overturned in 2015 when he was found not guilty in a retrial in which prosecutors argued Hupp was the real perpetrator.

Movie magic: A crew member holds up the suit that has been worn by the actress for the new feature

The case was the subject of five episodes of NBC's Dateline that aired from 2014 to 2019 and became one of the newsmagazine's most popular topics.

Hupp was sentenced to life without the possibility for parole in 2019 for luring Louis Gumpenberger, 33, to her home claiming to be a producer for Dateline before shooting him dead in an elaborate plot to divert attention from herself in the Faria case.

Speculation has also swirled that she was responsible for her own mother's fatal fall in 2013.

Written by Jessika Borsiczky, The Thing About Pam also stars Katy Mixon, Judy Greer, Gideon Adlon, Sean Bridgers, Suanne Spoke and Mac Brandt.

A release date for the series has not yet been released by NBC.

Lookalike: Renee has been styled to look like Pam (left) shortly before she was charged with murder
Former child stars Ashley and Mary-Kate Olsen stepped out of their Manhattan office at The Row on Monday to smoke cigarettes together in contrasting black and white attire.

The fraternal twins are both 35, but Ashley is two minutes older than Mary-Kate, and Mary-Kate is one inch taller than Ashley.

Later that evening, Ashley was wearing the same black pantsuit and matching face mask to grab dinner with a blonde gal pal.

Former child stars: Ashley (L) and Mary-Kate (R) Olsen stepped out of their Manhattan office at The Row on Monday to smoke cigarettes together in contrasting black and white attire

Can you tell the difference? The fraternal twins are both 35, but Ashley is two minutes older than Mary-Kate, and Mary-Kate is one inch taller than Ashley

Missing from Olsen's side was her rumored fiance, artist Louis Eisner, whom she originally met through mutual high school friends.

The Cali-born New Yorker and the 33-year-old son of jewelry designer Lisa Eisner were first seen together at Hammer Museum's Gala in the Garden in L.A. back in October 2017.

And Mary-Kate has been single since ending her four-year marriage to French banker Olivier Sarkozy on January 25 after a nine-month legal separation.

Last month, the Daytime Emmy nominee - who retired from acting a decade ago - placed second and third in two categories at the Longines Global Champions Tour in Rome on her horse 'Iowa van het Polderhof.'

Out and about: Later that evening, Ashley was wearing the same black pantsuit and matching face mask to grab dinner with a blonde gal pal

Girls' night out: Missing from Olsen's side was her rumored fiance, artist Louis Eisner, whom she originally met through mutual high school friends

Still going strong: The Cali-born New Yorker and the 33-year-old son of jewelry designer Lisa Eisner were first seen together at Hammer Museum's Gala in the Garden in L.A. back in October 2017

On October 14, Mary-Kate and Ashley unveiled the summer 2022 collection for their 15-year-old minimalist fashion label.

The Olsens also launched their first children's capsule collection on September 28 consisting of cashmere basics for ages 2-10 ranging in price from $390-$790.

'Kids bring out a sense of playfulness. They were very vocal and opinionated about what they liked and didn't like. We loved listening to their free minds,' Mary-Kate told W Magazine.

'The items have to have a sense of practicality, ease, and comfort. We think of this for our main collections, but it's even more important for kids.

Divorced: Mary-Kate has been single since ending her four-year marriage to French banker Olivier Sarkozy (L, pictured in 2019) on January 25 after a nine-month legal separation

Competitive show jumper: Last month, the Daytime Emmy nominee - who retired from acting a decade ago - placed second and third in two categories at the Longines Global Champions Tour in Rome on her horse 'Iowa van het Polderhof' (pictured September 18)

'Over the past 10 years, we've personalized cashmere onesie and blanket sets for our clients and friends who have had kids. We wanted to explore that in a bigger way.'

Ashley chimed in: 'Kids are the heart of creativity. They should be able to pick and choose what they want to wear, no matter what.'

A portion of the proceeds will be donated to charities in Los Angeles, New York, and London supporting children's health, education, and well-being.

Celine Dion inspired? On October 14, Mary-Kate and Ashley unveiled the summer 2022 collection for their 15-year-old minimalist fashion label

'We loved listening to their free minds!' The Olsens also launched their first children's capsule collection on September 28 consisting of cashmere basics for ages 2-10 ranging in price from $390-$790

The Row - named after London's Savile Row - was created between 2004-2006 while the Olsens attended New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study.

The five-time CFDA Fashion Award winners also have a Kohl's collection Elizabeth and James, which was named after their younger sister and brother.

Mary-Kate and Ashley famously built a billion-dollar tween empire after collectively portraying Michelle Tanner on ABC sitcom Full House from 1987-1995.

Named after London's Savile Row: The Row was created between 2004-2006 while the Olsens (pictured in 2019) attended New York University's Gallatin School of Individualized Study
She's a Hollywood star famed for her roles in I, Tonya, The Help and American Beauty.

And Allison Janney is set to light up the screen once more in her next big role as she was spotted filming scenes for new movie The People We Hate at the Wedding in London on Tuesday.

The actress, 61, looked elegant in a teal wrap dress as she shot outdoor scenes at a cafe in Butlers Wharf next to Tower Bridge.

There she is: Allison Janney is set to light up the screen in her next big role as she was spotted filming scenes for new movie The People We Hate at the Wedding in London on Tuesday

Allison, who plays matriarch Donna in the film, braved the cool London weather as she filmed opposite her smartly-dressed co-star, Ivorian actor Isaach de Bankole, 64.

The duo were seen chatting and laughing as they shared a drink, while cameras filmed closely next to them.

Meanwhile, a plethora of extras were spotting milling around the set as the new scenes were filmed.

Lovely: The actress, 61, looked elegant in a teal wrap dress as she shot outdoor scenes at a cafe in Butlers Wharf next to Tower Bridge

Allison looked radiant in her bold green outfit, with her caramel locks perfectly blow-dried, while her features were highlighted with a light make-up palette.

And while she turned heads in her stylish gown, in between scenes, Allison wrapped up warm in a camel coat.

Allison appeared in great spirits as she chatted along with crew members outside, all of whom covered up with face masks amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Filming: Allison, who plays matriarch Donna in the film, braved the cool London weather as she filmed opposite her smartly-dressed co-star, Ivorian actor Isaach de Bankole, 64

Good times: The duo were seen chatting and laughing as they shared a drink, while cameras filmed closely next to them

Dapper: Isaach cut a dapper figure in a dark grey suit and a pale blue shirt

The People We Hate At The Weddings centre on struggling American siblings Alice, and Paul, who attend a wedding along with their mother, (played by Allsion) of their estranged, rich half-sister in the English countryside.

But as skeletons are ripped from the closet, it turns out to be just what their family needs to reconnect, in what aspires to be 'a next-generation Four Weddings and a Funeral', according to Deadline.

The film also stars Kristen Bell as Alice and Ben Platt as Paul.

Looking good: Allison looked radiant in her bold green outfit, with her caramel locks perfectly blow-dried

All made up: Her features were highlighted with a light make-up palette for her scenes in the capital

Busy day: The star was surrounded by a plethora of production crew on the set

Cosy: And while she turned heads in her stylish gown, in between scenes, Allison wrapped up warm in a camel coat

Other actors in the cast include John Macmillan, Dustin Milligan, Cynthia Addai-Robinson, Rich Keeble and Benedict Wolf.

Principal photography for the film kicked off in the capital in September.

Earlier this year, Allison finished up the final season of Mom, in which she's starred as recovering alcoholic matriarch Bonnie Plunkett since it premiered in 2013.

Wrapped up: Allison whipped on her longline coat when she wasn't sitting at the table

That's better: The Hollywood actress seemed relieved to be in her winter coat amid the outdoor scenes

Why so serious: At one point the star looked quite serious as she walked along the set

She wrote on Instagram after the cancellation was announced: 'Getting to be part of MOM these past 8 years...showing the laughter, love and hope that can come with recovery, has been one of the great honors of my life.'

It was previously announced that the show is bowing out with season eight, after co-star Anna Faris exited the series last year.

Allison has also appeared in such titles as The West Wing, Drop Dead Gorgeous and most recently Breaking News In Yuba County.

In the background: a plethora of extras were spotting milling around the set as the new scenes were filmed

What's the chat? Isaach pulled an animated expression as he chatted to Allison for the scene

Safety first: Allison appeared in great spirits as she chatted along with crew members outside, all of whom covered up with face masks amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic
She skyrocketed to fame in the 90s as one of the world's top models.

And Heidi Klum proved to still be on top of her modeling game as she flashed her toned abs while posing in an electric orange set from Kim Kardashian's latest SKIMS collaboration with Fendi.

The 48-year-old television host seemed completely comfortable prancing around her hotel room wearing a pair of cheeky briefs to match a long-sleeve top as she practiced her poses with a trusty iPhone for Instagram snaps.

Strike a pose: Heidi Klum proved to still be on top of her modeling game as she flashed her toned abs while posing in an electric orange set from Kim Kardashian's latest SKIMS collaboration with Fendi

Heidi was clearly in her element as she writhed around the room wearing a turtleneck crop top with long sleeves.

Her sun-kissed skin took centerstage as she stood on her tippy toes to show off a pair of itty-bitty briefs which hung off her hips.

Klum turned around to reveal the classic bikini bottoms were certainly revealing as she shared a clip to social media.

Bottom's up: The 48-year-old television host seemed completely comfortable prancing around her hotel room wearing a pair of cheeky briefs to match a long-sleeve top as she practiced her poses with a trusty iPhone for Instagram snaps

Blessed: Klum turned around to reveal the classic bikini bottoms were certainly revealing as she shared a clip to social media

Her bright blonde hair was worn tousled to the side with fringe framing her face and she appeared to be relatively makeup-free.

Taking a gander at the room service cart, Klum found a perfectly placed mule to match her lingerie.

Kim launched SKIMS in 2019 and has since included bras, bralettes, bodysuits and shorts to the range of solutionwear, which was initially supposed to be called Kimono but received backlash for cultural appropriation.

Bliss: Heidi was clearly in her element as she writhed around the room wearing a turtleneck crop top with long sleeves

Angel: Her bright blonde hair was worn tousled to the side with fringe framing her face and she appeared to be relatively makeup-free

Let's eat: Taking a gander at the room service cart, Klum found a perfectly placed mule to match her lingerie

The Keeping Up With the Kardashians star was included in Forbes magazine's World's Billionaires list for the first time this year, which cites her businesses, KKW Beauty and SKIMS, as well as cash from reality TV and endorsement deals for her vast wealth.

Kim's worth increased from $780 million last October to $1 billion after she cashed in on KKW Beauty by selling 20 percent of the business to Coty for $200 million.

She filed for divorce from her husband of nearly seven years, Kanye West, in February. The couple has four children together: North, Saint, Chicago and Psalm.
The Walking Dead action star Norman Reedus and his fiancee of two months, Diane Kruger, took a stroll with their unicorn-obsessed, pink-clad scootin' daughter in Manhattan on Monday.

The Florida-born 52-year-old and the German-born 45-year-old will soon celebrate the third birthday of their daughter, whose name and exact birthday have not been disclosed over 'safety concerns.'

Norman puffed on a cigarette while clad in a grey hoodie while Diane rocked her favorite black flat cap with a matching maxi-coat.

Tiny tutu! The Walking Dead action star Norman Reedus (R) and his fiancee of two months, Diane Kruger (M), took a stroll with their unicorn-obsessed, pink-clad scootin' daughter in Manhattan on Monday

On Friday, Kruger (born Heidkruger) shared an Instagram snap of their girly girl meeting Halloween-style Minnie, presumably during a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

Meanwhile, Reedus' 22-year-old son Mingus Lucien (with ex Helena Christensen) was charged with misdemeanor assault on September 24 for 'accidentally' punching an 'intoxicated' 24-year-old woman in the face at The Feast of San Gennaro in Little Italy.

The models-turned-actors - who officially went public with their romance in March 2017 - originally met back in December 2015 while portraying lovers on the set of their film Sky.

Any day now! The Florida-born 52-year-old (L) and the German-born 45-year-old (R) will soon celebrate the third birthday of their daughter, whose name and exact birthday have not been disclosed over 'safety concerns'

Still going strong since 2015! Norman puffed on a cigarette while clad in a grey hoodie while Diane rocked her favorite black flat cap with a matching maxi-coat

At the time, Diane - who became an American citizen in 2013 - was still in a decade-long relationship with Dawson's Creek alum Joshua Jackson.

Norman will mark Kruger's second marriage after divorcing Mon idole castmate Guillaume Canet in 2006 following five years of marriage.

Last month, the Cannes best actress winner was hard at work in Rhode Island playing Marilyn in Neil LaBute's sexually-driven affair thriller Out of the Blue alongside Ray Nicholson and Hank Azaria.

Close encounter: On Friday, Kruger (born Heidkruger) shared an Instagram snap of their girly girl meeting Halloween-style Minnie, presumably during a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando

African safari: Reedus' 22-year-old son Mingus Lucien (pictured Saturday with mother Helena Christensen) was charged with misdemeanor assault on September 24 for 'accidentally' punching an 'intoxicated' 24-year-old woman in the face

Diane will next play German BND agent Marie in Simon Kinberg's all-female spy thriller 355 - hitting US/UK theaters January 7 - alongside Penelope Cruz, Jessica Chastain, Lupita Nyong'o, and Bingbing Fan.

And Reedus will next resume his role as crossbow-wielding tracker Daryl Dixon in the 11th season of the post-apocalyptic zombie drama, which returns February 20 on AMC.

The Ride with Norman Reedus producer-host is also penning his literary debut - a collection of four short fiction stories about a journey from the East Coast to the West Coast.

Hitting US/UK theaters January 7! The Cannes best actress winner will next play German BND agent Marie in Simon Kinberg's all-female spy thriller 355 alongside (from L-R) Penelope Cruz, Jessica Chastain, Lupita Nyong'o, and Bingbing Fan
They've been divorced for nearly 15 years.

But Shanna Moakler is still trying to convince her followers that the past is in the past as she shared a clip from the Point of No Return to Instagram on Monday evening.

Fans assumed her sly statement of 'I never did mind about the little things' was a nod to her ex-husband, Travis Barker, recently sharing a tattoo cover-up of her name with a new scorpion piece following his big engagement news to Kourtney Kardashian.

Tough call: Shanna Moakler is still trying to convince her followers that the past is in the past as she shared a clip from the Point of No Return to Instagram on Monday evening

Shanna shared a bikini snap with her 315,000 loyal followers and wrote: 'The jungle is dark but full of diamonds.'

She stood among leafy greens wearing an animal print triangle top with matching bottoms and a pair of daisy dukes.

The 46-year-old former pageant queen has had a contentious time with Kravis, and even at one time admitted that their romance was 'putting a wedge' between her relationship with her kids.

The Blink 182 drummer dropped down to one knee and proposed to Kourtney on the beach overlooking the sunset in Montecito last week with her famous family looking on from the Miramar hotel.

Adventurous: Shanna shared a bikini snap with her 315,000 loyal followers and wrote: 'The jungle is dark but full of diamonds'

Inked up: Fans assumed her sly statement of 'I never did mind about the little things' was a nod to her ex-husband, Travis Barker, recently sharing a tattoo cover-up of her name with a new scorpion piece following his big engagement news to Kourtney Kardashian

Hours after the romantic proposal, Shanna took to Instagram with a not-so-subtle reaction as she dramatically admitted to being 'temporarily closed for spiritual maintenance.'

And while the happy couple were certainly in celebration mode, her ex, Scott Disick, became a trending topic after fans were curious about his reaction following his disastrous leaked direct message to her ex Younes Bendjima where he criticized Kourtney for too much PDA with Travis on their trip to Italy.

Travis famously filed for divorce from Shanna in 2006 after just two years of marriage following claims that she had been unfaithful.

Earlier this year, Shanna decried her exes very public new romance and told Us Weekly that it's negatively affecting the bond she has with her two kids.

'The Kardashians are buying my kids Prada every other day,' the former Miss USA told the publication.

Kravis forever! The Blink 182 drummer dropped down to one knee and proposed to Kourtney on the beach overlooking the sunset in Montecito on Sunday night with her famous family looking on from the Miramar hotel

Talk about it: Shanna Barker took to Instagram hours after the engagement with a dramatic reaction as she admitted to being 'temporarily closed for spiritual maintenance'

'They're going on lavish trips. They're doing all these things, which is fine. I think it's nice that they're being kind to my kids. I want that for my children.'

She noted that there's 'severe distancing' between her and Alabama, 15, and Landon, 18, and noted: 'I don't think it's great when they put a wedge in between their biological mother.'

Kourtney went public with her new romance at the beginning of the year, and has Reign, six, Penelope, eight, and Mason, 11, from her previous relationship to Scott Disick.

Shanna also recently told US Weekly that his infidelity with Kim Kardashian was the catalyst to finally end their relationship.

'I divorced my ex because, I saw them  I caught them having an affair,' she said.

'The Kardashians are buying my kids Prada every other day,' the former Miss USA told the publication. Travis and Shanna share Landon, 18, and Alabama, 15, in addition to her daughter, Atiana, from her previous relationship with Oscar de la Hoya

Shanna added that she 'saw text messages' between the pair and alleged the 'affair' took place before Keeping Up With The Kardashians premiered in 2007.

She claimed mutual friends of the trio told her of the alleged affair, stating 'they sent me all their [text] conversations and I'm also close friends with people who were there, while things were happening.'

According to Shanna's timeline, Kim was still working alongside Paris Hilton as her 'closet organizer' when she first came in contact with Travis.

She said: '[Travis] had already had an affair with Paris Hilton. And at the time Kim was Paris' closet organizer, they were best friends. And he started using [Kim] as a model for [his clothing company], Famous Stars and Straps.'

She added that she had asked her former husband to 'not to use' Kim as a model due to her direct ties to Paris, and that she and Travis had been 'working on our marriage and trying to heal through that affair', that but he continued to work with Kim despite her wishes.

Shanna continued: 'Then I received all the text messages and the other third parties kind of let me know. It's something I was well aware of.'

Meanwhile, Kourtney's ex took to Instagram to promote his Talentless tracksuit brand.

Scott sported black shades as he leaned against a wall while clad in a gray reflective tracksuit.

He captioned the shot: '@talentless elevated their collection by introducing a NEW reflective nylon tracksuit. This piece is the perfect layering item for fall/winter and available in only 2 colors - CHROME and MERLOT.'
The series has been in the works for nearly two years.

And Dakota Fanning donned grey linen trousers and a white shirt while filming Showtime's Ripley on the Amalfi Coast in Italy on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old actress sported a black tank top and went bear foot as she stepped off a dinghy while filming the drama series based on Patricia Highsmith's Tom Ripley novels.

Filming: Dakota Fanning donned grey linen trousers and a white shirt while filming Showtime's Ripley on the Amalfi Coast in Italy on Tuesday

The film crew helped the star off the boat and out of the water after they finished filming the scene.

Her platinum blonde hair was parted down the middle and tied back into a loose ponytail.

Set in the 60s, Ripley will follow young grifter Tom Ripley played by Andrew Scott who is hired by a wealthy businessman to bring his gallivanting son home from Europe.

On set: The 27-year-old actress sported a black tank top and went bear foot as she stepped off a dinghy while filming the drama series based on Patricia Highsmith's Tom Ripley novels

In character: Her platinum blonde hair was parted down the middle and tied back into a loose ponytail

Toms acceptance of the job marks his descent into a whirlwind life of deceit, lies and eventually violence.

Oscar winner Steven Zaillian not only serves as writer on the production, but will also direct the entire first season in addition to serving as an executive producer.

The series which started filming in September 2020 has yet to announce a UK release date.

Amy Israel, executive vice president of scripted programming at Showtime told Variety earlier this year: 'Dakota Fanning is the perfect choice to play the deliciously complicated Marge opposite Andrew.'

'She's an actor that brings smarts and vulnerability to every part, with so much bubbling beneath the surface. We can't wait to see her sink her teeth into this role in Steve Zallian's Ripley.

Fleabag star Andrew will star as Ripley, while Fanning, will play Marge Sherwood, an American living in Italy who starts to suspect Ripley's motives when he shows up looking for her boyfriend Dickie Greenleaf, played by Johnny Flynn.

In the 1999 movie The Talented Mr. Ripley, directed by the late Anthony Minghella, starred Matt Damon as Tom Ripley with Gwyneth Paltrow as Marge and Jude Law as Dickie.

Film incarnation: Matt Damon played Tom Ripley on the big screen in a 1999 movie directed by the late Anthony Minghella
Freddie Flintoff, Chris Harris and Paddy McGuinness are back in action for the new series of Top Gear.

The trio are put through their paces in the new series trailer as they go electric caravanning along with an international expedition to Iceland.

The trailer opens with the presenters each driving onto a racing track with Chris seen saying: 'This is serious stuff.'

They're back! Freddie Flintoff, Chris Harris and Paddy McGuinness are back in action for the new series of Top Gear

Freddie says: 'Are you sure we should be on here, Paddy?'

Paddy replies: 'I'm not Fred, I'm really not.'

They are then seen caravanning in the hills with Paddy saying: 'It doesn't get greener than this boys' before they are seen taking outdoor showers.

Paddy is also seen after driving through a ring of fire, saying: 'It took me a month to practice that!'

Stunts: Paddy is seen after driving through a ring of fire, saying: 'It took me a month to practice that!'

Antics: The trio are put through their paces in the new series trailer as they go electric caravanning along with an international expedition to Iceland

In another scene, the group are seen standing alongside three luxury cars with Chris saying: 'This is my kinda day'.

It comes after reports that Simon Cowell is gearing up to launch a new TV car show to rival Top Gear.

The music mogul, 61, is said to consider the decision a 'no brainer' having been approached by a 'number of well-known car experts and racing drivers wanting to partner with him over the years'.

Simon is currently developing the new show and 'eyeing up' producers.

Cheers: In another scene, the group are seen standing alongside three luxury cars with Chris saying: 'This is my kinda day'

Upcoming: The trailer opens with the presenters each driving onto a racing track

Return: The new series of Top Gear returns to BBC One in November

A source told The Sun: 'Simon has always been a huge car lover  and a car show is always something he has been interested in doing.

'He loves talking cars [and] right now there feels like an especially large appetite. The idea of a new car show is really a no-brainer for him.'

According to the paper, Simon, who appeared as a Top Gear guest in 2007, owns a string of eye-wateringly expensive cars, including a Rolls-Royce Phantom, a Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder, an Eagle Speedster, a 1million Bugatti Veyron and a Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud.

As of 2018, Simon's net worth had accumulated to approximately $550 million (393m), according to Celebrity Net Worth.

MailOnline reached out to Simon's representatives for comment.

The new series of Top Gear returns to BBC One in November.
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Jersey Shore star Angelina Pivarnick recently added to her real estate portfolio by snapping up a $1.275 million mansion in New Jersey.

The enormous home, which is located in Freehold, features abundant space and four bedrooms with five bathrooms.

But it's unclear if the 35-year-old reality star will be sharing it with anyone at the moment, as her husband Chris Larangeria isn't listed on the deed, according to The Sun.

Movin' on up! Jersey Shore star Angelina Pivarnick, 35, bought a $1.3 million New Jersey home, but it's unclear if her husband Chris Larangeria is still involved, as he's not listed on the deed, according to The Sun

Angelina's new home features an impressive 5,609 square feet of space on a 1.19 acre lot.

The property has a large verdant lawn, while the backyard is designed for relaxing with friends and guests.

There's a sizable swimming pool that's heated to be comfortable even on chilly evenings, as well as a spa.

Off to its side is a lovely landscaped area featuring stone pathways and a koi pond with two waterfalls that's perfect for peaceful meditation.

Still together? Angelina filed to divorce Chris in January, but it was dismissed months later due to inaction; seen in May in LA

Peaceful: The home features a sizable swimming pool and a gorgeous landscaped koi pond with two waterfalls

Sleek: The kitchen features dark wood cabinets, an island with a gas range and stainless steel appliances

Angelina's new multi-car garage connects to a sizable drive way with even more space for parking when she has friends or her Jersey Shore costars over.

The mansion's entrance features an elegant butterfly staircase and tiling, which continues into the kitchen.

The space has french doors leading out to the pool and back yard, and smaller windows over the cabinets for plenty of natural light.

It includes tasteful dark wood cabinets and a center island featuring a gas range, as well as a small seating area for more casual meals or chatting.

The rest of the kitchen features top-of-the-line stainless steel appliances.

Cozy: The Jersey mansion's grandeur continues into the living room, which includes a marble fireplace, versatile hardwood floors and an office just off it

Chilling out: Angelina and her guests will be able to unwind with a game of pool in one room, which includes some excellent views of the green lawn and landscaping

Spacious: The master bedroom features a sizable sitting area and unusual floor-to-ceiling columns, as well as a sofa for relaxing off to the side. The large tiled bathroom is built around an impressive raised bathtub, which has its own large window

The Jersey mansion's grandeur continues into the living room, which includes a marble fireplace.

It has versatile hardwood floors, and there's an office just off the living room where the reality star can get some work done.

Angelina and her guests will be able to unwind with a game of pool in one room, which includes some excellent views of the green lawn and landscaping.

The master bedroom features a sizable sitting area and unusual floor-to-ceiling columns, as well as a sofa for relaxing off to the side.

The large tiled bathroom is built around an impressive raised bathtub, which has its own large window.

All hers: On Monday, Angelina celebrated the purchase in her Instagram Stories. She wore a black crop top and high-waisted jeans while beaming in side the mansion in a photo she captioned with 'new home owner'

Celebration: Another playful photo showed her waving her hands in the air while standing outside the enormous house

On Monday, Angelina celebrated the purchase in her Instagram Stories.

She wore a black crop top and high-waisted jeans while beaming in side the mansion in a photo she captioned with 'new home owner.'

Another playful photo showed her waving her hands in the air while standing outside the enormous house.

'Home sweet new home,' she wrote, adding, 'proud of myself.'

It's unclear if her husband Chris will have any connection to the home considering that he's not on the deed and wasn't featured in any of her posts.

In January, In Touch magazine revealed that Angelina had filed for a divorce in January of this year.

Reunited? Angelina has complained about marital problems on Jersey Shore: Family Vacation, but she was seen with Chris and wearing her wedding ring during a dinner over the summer; seen in 2019 in NYC

During a conversation with Mike 'The Situation' Sorrentino on the Thursday, July 1, episode of Jersey Shore: Family Vacation, Angelina referenced ending her marriage.

However, she stated that she hadn't served him the papers as of when the episode was filmed.

Earlier this year, both Angelina and Chris unfollowed each other on social media, and they haven't appeared together in any posts since then, leading fans to assume the relationship had gone south.

On a June episode of her series, Jenni 'JWoww' Farley confronted her after seeing security cam footage of her apparently visiting another man's house.

Later that month, more security cam footage emerged of her appearing to have an argument with the same man.

But Angelina claimed on Twitter on June 17 that the person in the videos was just a friend.

'The videos are of me and my girl and with my guy friend with us and some with me walking out alone lol,' she wrote. 'I cant have friends that I chill with.Right away I gotta be f***ing my friends lolll girl needs to get a serious life. Theres nothing to the videos at all.'

MIA: A source claimed to The Sun that things were going well and that she told Jersey Shore producers they were still together, but Chris has been absent from her social media; seen in 2019 in NYC

In another episode, Angelina claimed that her arguments with Chris were negatively affecting their sex life.

'It's like, we'll fight, and then whoever starts the fight won't want to bang. So he don't want to bang, I don't want to bang  no one wants to bang,' she complained

Later in July, The Sun reported that her divorce filing had been dismissed, as she hadn't filed other necessary paperwork and left it waiting for four months.

Shortly before the report, the married couple were spotted enjoying dinner together in Matawan, New Jersey, their hometown, and Angelina appeared to be wearing her wedding ring.

In August, a source claimed to the publication that Angelina and Chris were in 'the best place theyve ever been,' and they also said that she had told the Jersey Shore producers that the two were still together.

However, he continues to be completely absent from her social media.
Kris Jenner has said one of her favorite holidays is Halloween and every year she looks forward to dressing up in a wild costume.

On Tuesday the Keeping Up With The Kardashians producer treated her Instagram followers to a selection of her top looks from years past.

This comes just as DailyMail.com's annual Halloween Costume Poll revealed that the most in-demand look for this Halloween Kim Kardashian's Met Gala all-black Balenciaga look.

Going way back: Kris Jenner has said one of her favorite holidays is Halloween and every year she looks forward to dressing up in a wild costume. On Tuesday the Keeping Up With The Kardashians producer treated her Instagram followers to a selection of her top looks; seen with Kourtney Kardashian

With the little ones: One of the looks was Kris as a Captain Hook in a red coat and black hat as well as a white lace scarf. She posed with Kendall, who opted for a pirate costume. The image looked to be taken over 15 years ago

Jenner was generous with her images.

Kris said on her Instagram post, 'Love looking back at our family Halloween costumes over the years!!! So many amazing memories!!!

She also asked, 'What are you dressing up as this year?'

Daughter Kourtney Kardashian shared in the comment box, 'Now I know why I spend all October with a feather halo on.'

Queen: Another image showed the matriarch in a gold Cleopatra style costume with a decadent headdress

One of the looks was Kris as a Captain Hook in a red coat and black hat as well as a white lace scarf and black belt.

She posed with Kourtney, who was dressed as Tinkerbell, and also with Kylie, who was dressed as a wench, and Kendall, who opted for a pirate costume.

The image looked to be taken over 15 years ago.

Hide the dogs! And one year she dressed as Cruella De Vil from 101 Dalmatians, center. She posed with her mother MJ, left

Another image showed the matriarch in a gold Cleopatra style costume with a decadent headdress.

And one year she dressed as Cruella De Vil from 101 Dalmatians. She posed with her mother MJ.

Then there was the year where she went as Dorothy from the Wizard Of Oz as she held a small dog. Next to her was Khloe as a cow, Kim as a mouse, and Kourtney as a leopard.

Kris' mother MJ dressed as the Wicked Witch Of The West complete with green face paint and a pointy black hat.

We're off to see the Wizard: Then there was the year where she went as Dorothy from the Wizard Of Oz as she held a small dog. Next to her was Khloe as a cow, Kim as a mouse, and Kourtney as a leopard

Witchy look: Kris' mother MJ dressed as the Wicked Witch Of The West complete with green face paint and a pointy black hat

More recently Kris went as a Day Of The Dead mariachi player with a black suit, red scarf and oversized hat as she had plenty of face makeup on.

Her son Rob wore a red wig, eyebrows and mustache with a green vest to play King Peppy from Trolls.

She opted for a sexier look when she wore a low-cut blue dress to appear as Alice from Alice in Wonderland.

And the girlfriend of Corey Gamble also dropped the glam one year to dress as Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas.

Mother and son: More recently Kris went as a Day Of The Dead mariachi player with a black suit, red scarf and oversized hat as she had plenty of face makeup on. Her son Rob wore a red wig, eyebrows and mustache with a green vest to play King Peppy from Trolls

Daring dame: She opted for a sexier look when she wore a low-cut blue dress to appear as Alice from Alice in Wonderland; seen with Corey Gamble

On DailyMail.com's October poll, 35% of the readers said that they wanted to dress up as Kim during her Met Gala 2021 appearance.

The estranged wife of Kanye West wore a head to toe Balenciaga outfit.

She had on a mask that covered her face and hair. And the material went all the way down to her pointy boots.

Later she took off the head mask and added an eye mask only for a Batgirl look.

After fans criticized her Met Gala costume, Kim said the look fit the America theme because she was wearing a T-shirt head to toe, even though her outfit did not look like a T-shirt.

Scary fun: And the girlfriend of Corey Gamble also dropped the glam one year to dress as Jack Skellington from The Nightmare Before Christmas

Meanwhile, Kim said on Monday her family's upcoming Hulu show will reveal a 'different side' to her life.

The Kardashian and Jenner clan's iconic reality TV series Keeping Up with the Kardashians ended after 14 years and 20 seasons on E! in June, and the Skims, KKW Beauty and KKW Fragrance founder has revealed fans can expect a focus on her professional life, including her businesses and law studies.

The 41-year-old businesswoman and reality star - who has been named WSJ. Magazine's 2021 Brand Innovator for Upcoming Innovator Awards - told the publication: 'I think it will be a different side.

'But I wouldn't say that our silly sides are not going to come out.'

More simple times: In the Nineties, Jenner was a black cat as she wore an all black outfit. She added whiskers and a black nose

The family signed a multi-year content deal with Hulu.

Kim, Kourtney Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Kylie Jenner, and matriarch Kris Jenner will feature on the Disney-owned streaming platform in the US and, Star, the international streaming service by Disney.

Fans can also expect to see Kourtney, 42, and her fiance Travis Barker's engagement on the show.

The 45-year-old Blink-182 rocker proposed at the Rosewood Miramar in Montecito, California, over the weekend, and the magical moment was caught on camera.

Dramatic: On DailyMail.com's October poll, 35% of the readers said that they wanted to dress up as Kim during her Met Gala 2021 appearance. The estranged wife of Kanye West wore a head to toe Balenciaga outfit

A source explained: 'Since this is Kourtney's first engagement, it's of course a big deal. Most of her family was there to celebrate. Two of Travis' kids were there too. They enjoyed a private, family dinner at the hotel.'

Elsewhere in the interview, the mother-of-four - who has North, eight, Saint, five, Chicago, three, and Psalm, two, with 44-year-old rap legend Kanye West - revealed that her estranged husband has a hand in her businesses.

She said: 'He has a piece of Skims himself and gives [the team] inspiration but also information.'

Kim - who recently joked that she split from the Stronger hitmaker because of his personality while hosting Saturday Night Live -declared: 'Kanye will always be the most inspirational person to me.'
An upcoming series about the life of legendary comedian Joan Rivers is no longer moving forward.

The Comeback Girl, which would have starred WandaVision actress Kathryn Hahn, was scuttled because the producers had not secured Rivers' life rights, Variety reported on Tuesday.

The series also was the subject of controversy earlier this month after comedian Sarah Silverman slammed the production for 'Jewface' casting by using Catholic actress Hahn, who is not Jewish.

Canceled: The Comeback Girl, a biopic series about the late Joan Rivers starring Kathryn Hahn, is no longer moving forward, Variety reported on Tuesday; Rivers seen in 2012 in NYC

Rivers' daughter Melissa Rivers, 53, currently controls her mother's life rights, but she didn't give the series permission to use any of the comic's material.

The series could have theoretically gone forward as an unauthorized adaptation of her life, but it would have been prevented from using any of the comic's standup material or her writings.

The risky approach would have also opened the production up to possible legal challenges from Melissa or her mother's estate.

The series, which was first announced by Variety in September, was set to take place during a tumultuous point in Rivers' career, following the cancellation of her short-lived late night talk show and the suicide of her husband Edgar Rosenberg, who was also her producer.

Controversy: After the show was announced, comedian Sarah Silverman blasted the production for casting a non-Jew (Hahn) in the role, which she said fell into a pattern she called 'Jewface'; seen in August in LA

The Comeback Girl was expected to show the comedian rising from the ashes like a Phoenix to become the iconic entertainer she was known as in her final decades.

It's not clear yet if Melissa has plans for her own projects about her mother's life, and a spokesperson for her didn't have anything to announce.

Shortly after the project was announced, Sarah Silverman took issue with the casting of Hahn, who is Catholic, to play Rivers, a Jew.

She saw the casting as fitting into a pattern in which non-Jewish women got roles playing famous Jewish figures.

'There's this long tradition of non-Jews playing Jews, and not just playing people who happen to be Jewish but people whose Jewishness is their whole being,' she said during an episode of The Sarah Silverman Podcast from earlier this month.

'One could argue, for instance, that a Gentile [a non-Jew] playing Joan Rivers correctly would be doing what is actually called "Jewface,"' she continued.

Tragic death: Rivers died in September 2014 at 81 after she stopped breathing during a minor throat procedure. She died days later from brain damage caused by a lack of oxygen; seen with Melissa in 2005 in Hollywood

She defined 'Jewface'  inspired by the term 'Blackface'  as 'when a non-Jew portrays a Jew with the Jewishness front and center, often with makeup or changing of features, big fake nose, all the New Yorky or Yiddish-y inflection.'

She pondered why the representation of Jewish women seemed to be less important than representing other races, ethnicities and cultures.

Silverman also claimed there was a pernicious pattern in which any Jewish woman who is 'courageous or deserves love ... is never played by a Jew.'

She noted several high-profile non-Jewish actresses who have played Jews in recent years, including Felicity Jones, who starred as the late Supreme Court Justice Ruther Bader Ginsburg in 2018's On The Basis Of Sex, and Rachel Brosnahan, who stars as the fictional title character in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

The Hulu series Mrs. America also recently used two non-Jews, Margo Martindale and Tracey Ullman, to play Bella Abzug and Betty Friedan, respectively.

Rise and fall: Rivers became a standup sensation and a regular guest on The Tonight Show in the mid-'60s, but her career plummeted after a failed late-night show in the late 1980s; seen in 1991 in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida

Rivers' storied career ended with her death in September of 2014 at age 81.

She had gone under the knife for a minor procedure on her vocal cords on August 28, but during the surgery she stopped breathing for a substantial period.

Doctors were later able to resuscitate her and transferred Rivers to a hospital, where she was placed in a medically induced coma.

She died on September 4, and the medical examiner determined her death was due to brain damage caused by the extended lack of oxygen.

Melissa, her only child, shared the sad news in a statement: 'It is with great sadness that I announce the death of my mother, Joan Rivers.

'She passed peacefully at 1:17pm surrounded by family and close friends. My son and I would like to thank the doctors, nurses, and staff of Mount Sinai Hospital for the amazing care they provided for my mother.

'Cooper and I have found ourselves humbled by the outpouring of love, support, and prayers we have received from around the world. They have been heard and appreciated.'

'My mother's greatest joy in life was to make people laugh. Although that is difficult to do right now, I know her final wish would be that we return to laughing soon.'

Federal investigators later determined that the clinic had made several significant mistakes during the procedure, including failing to address Rivers' plummeting blood pressure and possibly giving her the wrong dose of anesthetic.

Rising again: River's husband Edgar Rosenberg, who was her producer, killed himself just months after they were fired in 1987. Joan later rose to prominence again as a legendary stage performer

Melissa Rivers sued the clinic and the doctors who did the surgery for malpractice, eventually receiving a settlement and an admission of responsibility.

Rivers' career took off in the mid-1960s, when she emerged as a potent standup and a popular guest star on The Tonight Show for years to come.

She became the only woman with her own late-night talk show in the 1980s, but Johnny Carson banned her from The Tonight Show in response, and she and her husband were fired from the series less than a year after it went on the air.

Rosenberg died by suicide on August 14, 1987, just three months after he and his wife were fired.

It's unclear if the sensitive nature of the time period covered in The Comeback Girl, the period shortly after Rosenberg's death, might have affected the producer's ability to get the rights to Rivers' life from her daughter.
Drew Barrymore embraced her ex-husband #2 Tom Green for the first time 'in almost 20 years' during Tuesday's episode of her talk show.

The 50-year-old Canadian comedian technically appeared on his 46-year-old ex-wife's show on September 25, 2020 - but it was done virtually using high-tech green-screen technology.

Green joined Barrymore for a special edition of Drew's News segment on The Drew Barrymore Show where they reminisced about the honeymoon road trip they took through Ireland back in 2001.

Hug: The Drew Barrymore Show producer-host Drew Barrymore embraced her ex-husband #2 Tom Green for the first time 'in almost 20 years' during Tuesday's episode of her talk show

Not really in the same room: The 50-year-old Canadian comedian technically appeared on his 46-year-old ex-wife's show on September 25, 2020 (pictured) - but it was done virtually using high-tech green-screen technology

Drew - who gushed that Tom is 'very special,' 'magical,' and 'wonderful' - shared several never-before-seen vacation snaps from their trip to the emerald isle.

'We hiked up these crazy mountains for hours,' the former child star recalled.

'We were determined to reach the top but at certain points, I don't think we thought we ever were going to.'

The former MTV prankster added: 'I think we may have hiked up two mountains. I remember one mountain we go to the top, it was foggy, and there was a sheep up there that hadn't been shorn in years.'

'Someone so dear to me': Green joined Barrymore for a special edition of Drew's News segment where they reminisced about the honeymoon road trip they took through Ireland back in 2001

PDA! Drew - who gushed that Tom is 'very special,' 'magical,' and 'wonderful' - shared several never-before-seen vacation snaps from their trip to the emerald isle

The former child star recalled: 'We hiked up these crazy mountains for hours. We were determined to reach the top but at certain points, I don't think we thought we ever were going to'

The former MTV prankster added: 'I think we may have hiked up two mountains. I remember one mountain we go to the top, it was foggy, and there was a sheep up there that hadn't been shorn in years'

Barrymore interrupted: 'And headstones! There was a mini-cemetery'

Barrymore interrupted: 'And headstones! There was a mini-cemetery.'

Drew went on to admit her 'good' honeymoon with Green was 'one of my favorite trips of my life': 'We just jumped in random oceans and found random fields. It was amazing.'

When the five-time Emmy nominee's castmate Ross Mathews asked Tom how it felt to be on the show, he admitted it was 'weird.'

'I kind of feel like I'm watching this too right now,' the YouTube vlogger explained.

Drew went on to admit her 'good' honeymoon with Green was 'one of my favorite trips of my life': 'We just jumped in random oceans and found random fields. It was amazing'

'I kind of feel like I'm watching this too right now': When the five-time Emmy nominee's castmate Ross Mathews asked Tom how it felt to be on the show, he admitted it was 'weird'

The YouTube vlogger explained: 'I don't know if that's weird. It's sort of a little bit like an out of body experience. It's very nice to see you, it does feel weird though. Not weird in a bad way, weird in a good way...I actually think this is kind of a nice way of reconnecting, actually. It takes a little bit of the pressure off'

Barrymore replied: 'Well, I respect and love you'

'I don't know if that's weird. It's sort of a little bit like an out of body experience. It's very nice to see you, it does feel weird though. Not weird in a bad way, weird in a good way.

'Appreciate it, Drew. Thanks for having me on the show. It's awesome. This is cool. I actually think this is kind of a nice way of reconnecting, actually. It takes a little bit of the pressure off.'

Barrymore replied: 'Well, I respect and love you.'

It's surprising any snapshots survived the house fire the former couple suffered through during their 15-month marriage, which ended in 2002.

The Chad: It's surprising any snapshots survived the house fire the former couple suffered through during their 15-month marriage, which ended in 2002 (pictured in 2000)

February 14 family portrait: Drew has two daughters - Olive, 9; and Frankie, 7 - from her third marriage to art consultant Will Kopelman (L), which ended in 2016 after nearly four years

Oops! And the former Hollywood wildchild's first marriage to British bar owner Jeremy Thomas (L) notoriously ended in 1995 after less than two months

Drew has two daughters - Olive, 9; and Frankie, 7 - from her third marriage to art consultant Will Kopelman, which ended in 2016 after nearly four years.

And the former Hollywood wildchild's first marriage to British bar owner Jeremy Thomas notoriously ended in 1995 after less than two months.

Barrymore - who joined a dating app in January - will next interview Alyssa Milano about her new personal essay collection Sorry Not Sorry on Wednesday's episode of her CBS syndicated series.

On November 2, Dutton will publish Drew's 240-page lifestyle book Rebel Homemaker: Food, Family, Life that she co-authored with chef Pilar Valdes.

Tomorrow! Barrymore - who joined a dating app in January - will next interview Alyssa Milano (pictured Monday) about her new personal essay collection Sorry Not Sorry on Wednesday's episode of her CBS syndicated series
Bethenny Frankel held hands with her 11-year-old daughter Bryn Hoppy while strolling down the sidewalk in Manhattan on Tuesday.

The Real Housewives of New York City alum, 50, and Bryn were spotted as they left lunch at Cipriani Downtown.

The entrepreneur donned a long-sleeved gray cotton t-shirt that she tucked into cropped black skinny jeans and flashed her massive diamond engagement ring as she walked with her daughter.

Sweet: Bethenny Frankel held hands with her 11-year-old daughter Bryn Hoppy while strolling down the sidewalk in Manhattan on Tuesday

The Skinnygirl CEO sported white leather Gucci slippers and carried a lavender-colored Hermes Ostrich leather handbag.

Bethenny wore a gray wool fedora and accessorized with a silver-studded black belt, a silver watch and pearl earrings.

Frankel shielded her eyes from the sun with black aviator shades and appeared to be deep in conversation on her phone.

Out and about: The Real Housewives of New York City alum, 50, and Bryn were spotted as they left lunch at Cipriani Downtown

Bryn was clad in a cropped white tank top and baggy white sweatpants with black and white leather sneakers.

She wore her long blonde hair down and accessorized with two gold necklaces along with string bracelets.

The pre-teen covered her face with a black mask and toted her iPhone as well as a leftovers bag from the upscale Italian restaurant.

Stylish: Bryn was clad in a cropped white tank top and baggy white sweatpants with black and white leather sneakers

Bethenny frequently shares cute photos and videos of herself with her daughter on Instagram.

Frankel shares Bryn with her ex-husband. The television personality's three-year marriage to the pharmaceutical sales executive finally ended in January after a nine-year legal separation.

In February, the socialite got re-engaged to Peabody Award-winning producer Paul Bernon after a four-month split.

Fun: Bethenny frequently shares cute photos and videos of herself with her daughter on Instagram

Tying the knot: Bethenny and Peabody Award-winning producer Paul Bernon got re-engaged in February after a four-month split

On Monday, Bethenny took to Twitter to slam David Quinn's new tell-all book Not All Diamonds and Rose: The Inside Story of The Real Housewives from the People Who Lived It.

She tweeted, 'I think we need more stories about women trashing womenOr.we can publish a book about it? Is that a good idea? #2021

'PS. Ive had my regrettable moments but capitalizing on our weaknesses? Thats rich.literally #WomenSupportingWomen lol.'

Speaking out: On Monday, Bethenny took to Twitter to slam David Quinn's new tell-all book Not All Diamonds and Rose: The Inside Story of The Real Housewives from the People Who Lived It

Frankel, who was one of the only Housewives to not participate in interviews for the book, then responded to a fan who asked if producer Andy Cohen was receiving proceeds from the tell-all's sales.

'No clue . I vaguely remember being approached about it & taking a hard leftbut I dont know,' she said.

'It just keeps coming up. Yay for them but every day from me to Carole to Kelly to Teresa to Danielle to heather to Sonja etc. Nobody gets out without paying the bill'

Bethenny teased that she would talk about the book on her podcast Just B with Bethenny Frankel.

'I think I have to discuss on @justbpodcast There may be 140 characters to discuss but I cant discuss them in 140 characters.'

Weighing in: Frankel, who was one of the only Housewives to not participate in interviews for the book, then responded to a fan who asked if producer Andy Cohen was receiving proceeds from the tell-all's sales

Telling her side: Bethenny teased that she would talk about the book on her podcast Just B with Bethenny Frankel

Last month, the outspoken Bravo star was accused of transphobia for being offended about a pronoun discussion at Bryn's school on Zoom.

'We have to go into the fact that I did a Zoom for my daughter's school and [had] the pronouns conversation with each teacher, each parent, each child,' Frankel vented on the September 22 episode of her Just B podcast.

'And my daughter says in school, too, that everybody has to say their pronouns. And my daughter didn't even know what hers were...[She said], "I know what I am or what I think I am, but I have never said it out loud. It hasn't come up for me." So she said she didn't know.'

The BStrong founder went on to complain about a Hamptons all-girls summer camp that allowed a transgender girl sleep in the same bunk as the other girls.

'The other girls saw her, because it's her. It's male anatomy, but identifying as a woman. So, the other girls saw a penis. They're like nine, 10 years old. So, the parents obviously weren't that happy,' Bethenny claimed.

Controversy: The Bravo star was accused of transphobia for being offended about a pronoun discussion at Bryn's school on Zoom

'The other girls saw a penis': Bethenny went on to complain about a Hamptons all-girls summer camp that allowed a transgender girl sleep in the same bunk as the other girls

'Find someone else to troll': Frankel took to Twitter last Monday and Tuesday to say she 'didn't do a single thing wrong' and she's 'not apologizing'

Frustrated Frankel then claimed she heard stories 'this girl with a penis was making out with a lot of the different girls at the camp.'

The Martha Stewart protegee later took to Twitter to say she 'didn't do a single thing wrong' and she's 'not apologizing.'

'People need to be able to have discussions without fearing the cancelation citations you get excited to give,' Bethenny - who boasts 5.1M social media followers - wrote.

'Wrong celeb. Find someone afraid to troll.'
Kyle Sandilands has come out to bat for TV host Grant Denyer after he was falsely accused last week of having an affair with his Dancing with the Stars partner Lily Cornish.

The radio presenter, 50, rubbished New Idea's report implying Grant was cheating on his wife Chezzi, saying it's common practice for tabloid magazines to use photos 'out of context'.

'It's New Idea. Everyone knows everything inside it is invented rubbish,' he said on Wednesday, echoing the Denyers' recent rebuttal of the front-page story.

Support: Kyle Sandilands has come out to bat for TV host Grant Denyer after he was falsely accused last week of having an affair with his Dancing with the Stars partner Lily Cornish

Kyle added that he believed Grant when he said he was just comforting his dance partner by giving her a pat on the leg after she'd received some sad personal news.

'[Grant] is like that - he's a sweetie,' he told listeners of The Kyle and Jackie O Show. 'He's almost like a woman himself. I totally believe what he said.'

He continued: 'The guy's had multiple broken backs; he's barely able to even move.

Response: The radio star, 50, rubbished New Idea's report implying Grant was cheating on his wife Chezzi, saying it's common practice for tabloid magazines to use photos 'out of context'

'He is a nice guy. I give him a bit of a hard time [but he's] super nice. Denyer and his wife Chezzi, that's a real relationship. That's a real love story.

'[The affair rumours are] bulls**t. Not true. I didn't even read the story, I knew it was that much bulls**t.'

Co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson added that the rumours must be 'awful' for Chezzi.

Happy family: Grant and Chezzi Denyer, who married in 2010, are parents to daughters Sailor, Scout and Sunday. Pictured when Chezzi was pregnant with Sunday

New Idea published a front-page story on October 18 falsely implying Grant was having an affair with dancer Lily Cornish.

The magazine included photos of Grant with his hand on Lily's thigh in between rehearsals for Dancing with the Stars: All Stars in Sydney.

While the photos were accompanied by the headline 'Grant Denyer Caught Out', the full set of images has since been released, offering a more complete picture of what happened.

Denial: The original article falsely suggested Grant and Lily (left) were cheating on their respective partners - a claim the Denyers have strongly denied - but the photos themselves actually suggest a platonic relationship

The original article insinuated Grant and Lily were cheating on their respective partners - a claim the Denyers have strongly denied - but the photos themselves actually suggest a platonic relationship.

Daily Mail Australia is not suggesting any infidelity took place.

For example, while Grant did place his hand on Lily's thigh at one stage, it wasn't necessarily an intimate gesture.

One photo appears to show him patting the young woman's leg in a fatherly manner, which is what he maintains happened.

There were other moments when they acted like ordinary friends and colleagues.

'It's such a horrible, made-up story': Grant admitted last Thursday he'd 'embarrassed' his family, telling 2Day FM's The Morning Crew with Hughesy, Ed & Erin the pictures actually showed him consoling his friend after she had received some sad personal news

Shots of them looking chummy at the boat party and linking arms outside were seemingly cropped to make it appear as if they were alone.

In reality, they were surrounded by their co-stars, including the likes of former Bachelorette Angie Kent and The Morning Show host Kylie Gillies.

Grant admitted last Thursday he'd 'embarrassed' his family, telling 2Day FM's The Morning Crew with Hughesy, Ed & Erin the pictures actually showed him consoling his friend after she had received some sad personal news.

The images, he said, were taken by a paparazzo just moments after he and Lily had finished speaking to his wife Chezzi over FaceTime.

'It's such a horrible, made-up story that's embarrassing for everyone,' he said.

Speaking up: Lily addressed the New Idea story last Thursday, sharing this post to Instagram thanking her fans for their 'kind words and messages'

'We'd just been on the phone to Chezzi, we had been FaceTiming It had been a bit of a tough day and Lil had a bit going on in her personal life.'

'It's not up to me to divulge what it [the personal issue] is but I was just giving her a bit of a pep talk and fatherly advice,' he added.

'I just gave her a tap on the leg and she sort of leaned in for a bit of a hug after a chat and that's the photo on the [New Idea] front page.'

Lily also addressed the New Idea story last Thursday, sharing a post to Instagram thanking her fans for being so understanding.

'Thanks everyone for the kind words and messages. I really appreciate the amount of love that has come out of this yucky / disrespectful situation. Killing it with kindness,' she wrote.

Grant and his wife had categorically denied the New Idea report in a series of social media posts last Wednesday.

Backlash: Chezzi posted screenshots of the article on Instagram and blasted the magazine for fabricating such a 'gross and mean' story

Chezzi posted screenshots of the article - which falsely suggested her husband was having an affair with a woman half his age - on Instagram and blasted the magazine for fabricating such a 'gross and mean' story.

She went on to claim the photographer who took the photos had apologised to her for the images being 'taken out of context'.

She also pointed out that Lily's long-term boyfriend Jock White had been pictured visiting her during rehearsals for DWTS.

Grant later issued his own blistering statement, calling the article a 'brutal' attack on a '22-year-old kid' and a 'dad of three girls'.
His former Today show co-host Lisa Wilkinson is set to release her bombshell memoir - which will make a number of explosive claims about him - on November 3.

But Karl Stefanovic looked completely unfazed by the impending release on Monday as he donned some questionable attire while spending time at his home in Sydney.

The 47-year-old appeared calm and collected as he took the bins out while sporting a pair of kooky watermelon shorts teamed with suede Gucci sneakers.

Kooky: Today host Karl Stefanovic appeared unfazed by the impending release of Lisa Wilkinson's book as he stepped out on Monday in watermelon shorts and Gucci sneakers

He teamed the quirky outfit with a pair of long white socks, which sat around his ankles, and a black Adidas shirt.

Karl shielded his eyes from the sun with a pair of oversized shades, and had a slight smile on his face as he noticed photographers.

The sighting comes just days before Wilkinson's new book, It Wasn't Meant to Be Like This, is set to be released.

Whatever's comfortable: He teamed the quirky outfit with a pair of long white socks, which sat around his ankles, and a black Adidas shirt

In it, she makes a series of explosive claims about Karl - alleging he 'gave her the cold shoulder' when she was sacked from the Channel Nine breakfast show in 2017, and that there was an 'off the charts' pay disparity between them.

Yet despite the bad press, New Idea reported on Monday that Karl has 'never had so much fan mail' in recent weeks and may even be in line for a promotion.

'The thing about Karl is that he thrives during these situations,' a source claimed.

'It seems Lisa's long-anticipated book release may have backfired - Karl has never had so much fan mail.

'If Lisa keeps chipping away, there could be a perception that she's now gone too far, having a go at the man she shared mornings with for 11 years.'

Bombshell: Lisa (pictured) makes several explosive claims about Karl in her new book, It Wasn't Meant to Be Like This, including that he 'gave her the cold shoulder' when she was sacked from Channel Nine in 2017, and that there was an 'off the charts' pay disparity between them

New challenge: Yet despite the bad press, New Idea reported on Monday that Karl has 'never had so much fan mail' in recent weeks and may even be in line for a promotion in the form of replacing Ben Fordham (right, with Rebecca Maddern) as host of Australian Ninja Warrior

Karl has reportedly gone to Nine bosses to 'plump up' his deal with the network, and wants to replace Ben Fordham as host of Australian Ninja Warrior.

Ben announced he was leaving the obstacle course show earlier this month to focus on his 2GB radio program.

Channel Nine declined to comment when approached by Daily Mail Australia.

It comes just days after Karl offered a classy response when asked about Lisa's claims over the weekend.

'Brother, I've got too many positive and wonderful things going on in my life to talk about that stuff,' he told the Sydney Morning Herald.

'I'm very happy. In work and life,' he added.

Earlier this month, Karl and his current Today co-host Allison Langdon reportedly renewed their contracts with Nine - with new salaries to reflect the show's surge in popularity.

Cha-ching! Earlier this month, Karl and his current Today co-host Allison Langdon (right) reportedly renewed their contracts with Nine - with new salaries to reflect the show's surge in popularity. The breakfast TV stars have reportedly secured deals worth $1.8million each

The breakfast TV stars have reportedly secured deals worth $1.8million each after the program grew its audience to become competitive with Channel Seven's Sunrise for the first time in years.

Meanwhile, Lisa's explosive new book includes a chapter dedicated to her sacking from Channel Nine and falling out with Stefanovic over a pay dispute.

She alleges Karl proposed in August 2015 they join forces to renegotiate their Nine contracts - not unlike how the cast of American sitcom Friends famously worked together to broker better deals with NBC.

But she claims he ended up ditching this idea and instead played rival networks Nine and Seven off against each other in order to secure a better deal for himself.

'Weeks later... the media became awash with stories that Stefanovic was restless at Today and looking for greener pastures  and more civilised working hours  at Channel Seven,' she wrote.

'I'm very happy': Karl (left) issued a classy response to Lisa's (right) tell-all memoir over the weekend, telling the Sydney Morning Herald: 'Brother, I've got too many positive and wonderful things going on in my life to talk about that stuff'

Karl was soon at the centre of a bidding war between Nine and Seven that resulted in him re-signing a five-year deal with Nine worth at least $2million per year.

Lisa's deal was worth significantly less, about $780,000 a year, and was only for two years.

'There was no doubt about it: Karl certainly knew the art of the deal,' she wrote, adding that the resulting pay disparity between them 'was so off the charts that no-one would have believed it'.

However, this allegedly doesn't tell the full story, with News.com.au reporting last week Lisa had in fact earned more than Karl for years when they first joined forces on Today, and it was only at the end of their partnership that the roles reversed.

Fall-out: Lisa's new book includes a chapter dedicated to her sacking from Channel Nine and falling out with Karl over a pay dispute. She alleges Karl proposed in August 2015 they join forces to renegotiate their Nine contracts - but claims he ditched this idea and instead played Nine and Seven off against each other to secure a better deal for himself

The article, written by respected political journalist Samantha Maiden, reported that when Karl first signed up to the breakfast show in 2006, he was on half of Lisa's pay packet, which was a reported $700,000.

'When they were first on the show, she was paid a lot more than he was,' an alleged Nine insider told the publication.

'Then, he was able to wedge a fee increase because Seven made him a big offer. If Nine wanted to keep him, they had to pay him, which is what happened.

'If you look at what he's paid now, it's probably not too dissimilar to what she was offered. So, you know, you can take things in a point of time, but I don't think there would have been much difference between the two now.'

This damning article - which challenges Lisa's most significant claim about her exit from the Today show - reportedly sent the book's publisher into a major spin.

Allegation: 'There was no doubt about it: Karl certainly knew the art of the deal,' Lisa wrote in the memoir, adding that the resulting pay disparity between them 'was so off the charts that no-one would have believed it'

Harper Collins Australia demanded a preview copy of the memoir be returned by the news website following publication of the story, sources told Daily Mail Australia.

'They blew up and asked for their copy back,' said an insider at the website.

News.com.au editor Lisa Muxworthy declined to comment when contacted by Daily Mail Australia.

A spokesperson for Harper Collins later told Daily Mail Australia: 'No one from HarperCollins asked news.com.au to return a preview copy of Lisas book.

'News.com.au didnt have a preview copy of the book and there was no request to return a copy.'

It comes after Lisa lifted the lid on her final days working at the Today show in an excerpt from her new book, published in The Sunday Telegraph.

She claimed Karl had given her the cold shoulder in the weeks prior to her sacking, which was prompted when she asked for a significant pay rise.

She alleged she and husband Peter FitzSimons had invited Karl and his partner Jasmine to attend their 25th anniversary vow renewal ceremony in October 2017.

Two days before the event, however, Karl supposedly contacted Peter to say they wouldn't be attending because they'd extended their overseas holiday.

Twist: Harper Collins Australia demanded a preview copy of the memoir be returned by the news website following publication of the story, well-placed sources told Daily Mail Australia

Claims: Lisa alleged she and husband Peter FitzSimons (left) had invited Karl and his partner Jasmine to attend their 25th anniversary vow renewal ceremony in October 2017. Two days before the event, however, Karl supposedly contacted Peter to say they wouldn't be attending because they'd extended their overseas holiday

'In the ten days since [the ceremony] Karl hadn't contacted me, his co-host of almost eleven years, at all. No phone message, no text, no apology, not even a simple congrats. Just complete silence,' Lisa alleged.

After returning to work, she claimed Karl did not ask her about her holidays, nor did he apologise for being a 'no-show at the wedding'.

'For the next two hours, I exchanged not a single word with Karl outside of what was scripted  because for the first time, I just didn't trust myself to "play nice",' she said.

However, her recollection of her last show has been disputed, with resurfaced footage showing Karl had in fact said to her: 'It's a big welcome back to Lisa. Nice to see you again. How was your honeymoon?'

Theory: Upon learning she had been sacked later that day, Lisa wondered: 'Was this why [Karl] didn't attend the wedding and hadn't spoken to me since? Was this why he never said a word about the show's strange rundown that morning?'

Lisa went on to claim in her book she was 'quietly fuming' because 'nearly every interview that day was being done by Karl alone'.

'For two hours, I sat there feeling completely useless. The Today Show was now The Karl Show. What was the point of me even being there?' she said.

Upon learning she had been sacked later that day, Lisa wondered: 'Was this why [Karl] didn't attend the wedding and hadn't spoken to me since? Was this why he never said a word about the show's strange rundown that morning?'

While Karl and Lisa's relationship appears to be strained, his relationship with rival host Natalie Barr from Channel Seven's Sunrise appears to be anything but.

In a photo obtained by Daily Mail Australia, the Nine host and his 53-year-old Sunrise foe were all smiles at a group function in Sydney last week.

The gathering, hosted by Navarra CEO Sal Navarra, was to celebrate Sydney's reopening following the extended Covid-19 lockdown.
Viola Davis looks fearless as she unveiled the cover for her memoir Finding Me.

The Oscar-winner took to Instagram to talk about the book, which is set for release April 26th, 2022

'My Life. My story. My words. I'm so excited to share the cover of my book, FINDING ME!' she wrote along a snap of the cover, which featured a black and white close-up of the star.

Cover star: Viola Davis unveiled the cover for her memoir Finding Me on Tuesday

Viola continued her caption thanking Oprah Daily for helping with the cover reveal and 'sharing this milestone with me.'

'I can't wait to share with all of you!' she went on.

Talking about the project upon its announcement this past July, Davis told the Associated Press: 'I believe that our stories, and the courage to share them, is the most powerful empathetic tool we have.

'This is my story ... straight no chaser.'

According to publisher Harper Collins: 'Finding Me is Viola Davis' story, in her own words, and spans her incredible, inspiring life, from her coming-of-age in Rhode Island to her present day.'

Her words: 'My Life. My story. My words. I'm so excited to share the cover of my book, FINDING ME!' she wrote along a snap of the cover, which featured a black and white close-up of the star. She's seen at the 2021 Oscars above

'Hers is a story of overcoming, a true hero's journey. Deeply personal, brutally honest, and riveting, Finding Me is a timeless and spellbinding memoir that will capture hearts and minds around the globe.'

Viola overcame an impoverished upbringing in Rhode Island living in apartments that were lonely, 'condemned and rat-infested.'

'I was one of those people that everyone knew, but I didn't have a lot of friends. I didn't date or do any of that stuff. I was overweight and very, very shy,' Davis told People in 2017.

'I was definitely not a snazzy dresser and definitely didn't wear make-up. I would jump in trash bins with maggots looking for food, and I would steal from the corner store because I was hungry.'

A lifetime: According to publisher Harper Collins 'Finding Me is Viola Davis' story, in her own words, and spans her incredible, inspiring life, from her coming-of-age in Rhode Island to her present day'

Determination: Viola (R) earned a full scholarship to Rhode Island College, thanks to federal program TRIO Upward Bound, and went on to the prestigious Julliard School

The How to Get Away with Murder producer-star earned a full scholarship to Rhode Island College, thanks to federal program TRIO Upward Bound, and went on to the prestigious Julliard School.

'It took many years of getting knocked down and getting back up to finally say, "Okay, I think I'm pretty tough. I've got this,"' Viola told the mag.

'I was always looking for a way to express what was in me, my thoughts, and I found it through theater, so that was where I thrived. [Otherwise] I probably would have imploded.'

HarperOne president and publisher Judith Curr called Davis 'a powerful truth teller  through her work on stage and screen, as well as in her life.'

She went on, saying: 'I'm looking forward to working with her on a book that powerfully reveals the risk and danger for a Black woman living in the fullness of her talents and gifts  and the reward and freedom that comes with it.'

Finding me is available for pre-order and will be released on April 26th 2022.
Convicted drug smuggler Schapelle Corby has revealed she enjoyed a holiday in Western Australia before the borders shut earlier this year.

On Saturday, the 44-year-old shared photos to Instagram from her trip in early June, showing her followers the places she visited in the Pilbara region.

She documented her visit to Joffre Gorge in the Karijini National Park with her siblings.

Holiday mode: Convicted drug smuggler Schapelle Corby revealed she enjoyed a holiday in Western Australia before the borders shut earlier this year

The group enjoyed a swim there as Schapelle posed in a cleavage-baring green swimsuit with a wrap around the waist.

The former SAS Australia star also shared pictures of natural landscapes and flowers.

'Coz not doing anything lately - here's a photo drop of my trip to The Pilbara, Western Australia, back in early June - before the lockdowns began again,' she wrote

Close: She documented her visit to Joffre Gorge in the Karijini National Park with her siblings

Natural beauty: The group enjoyed a swim there as Schapelle posed in a cleavage-baring green swimsuit with a wrap around the waist

The Dancing with the Stars contestant also went on a road trip to Dampier, where she shared a selfie with the town's most famous icon: the Red Dog memorial.

She also stopped by the roadside to have her photo taken with the beautiful landscape behind her.

'The Pilbara Photo Drop,' she captioned it.

Happy snaps: The Dancing with the Stars contestant also went on a road trip to Dampier, where she shared a selfie with the town's most famous icon: the Red Dog memorial

Travel chic: She wore a tiered dress for the road trip around the Pilbara region

The great outdoors! She stopped by the roadside to have her photo taken

Earlier this year, Schapelle joined Dancing with the Stars: All Stars as a wildcard.

She appeared on three episodes before she and her professional dance partner Shae Mountain were sent home.

Prior to that, she was one of the recruits in the first season of Channel Seven's SAS Australia, but voluntarily withdrew in episode two.

Short lived: Earlier this year, Schapelle joined Dancing with the Stars: All Stars as a wildcard. She appeared on three episodes before she and partner Shae Mountain were sent home

Reality TV debut: Prior to that, she was one of the recruits in the first season of Channel Seven's SAS Australia, but voluntarily withdrew in episode two

In October 2004, Schapelle became a household name when she was arrested at Bali airport with 4.2kg of cannabis wrapped in plastic inside her boogie board bag.

The world watched in May 2005 as she broke down in the Denpasar courtroom after being sentenced to 20 years' imprisonment in Kerobokan Prison.

Following a series of sentence reductions, she was released on parole in February 2014, having served nine years behind bars.
Billionaire heiress Francesca Packer Barham split from her personal trainer boyfriend Adam Cooper earlier this year after a whirlwind romance.

And Adam has now moved on with Sydney-based cosmetic nurse Natalie Abouchar.

He debuted the pair's relationship on Tuesday by sharing two photos on Instagram of himself kissing Natalie on an outing in Kirribilli.

Moving on: Francesca Packer's ex-boyfriend Adam Cooper (left) has debuted his romance with cosmetic nurse Natalie Abouchar (right), just months after his split from the billionaire heiress

'You had me at hello,' he captioned the loved-up snaps.

Injectables specialist Natalie is well known in Sydney's eastern suburbs as the director of the Privee clinic in Bondi Junction.

'Punching again,' one follower commented underneath Adam's post.

Over: Daily Mail Australia reported in August that Francesca (left) and Adam had called it quits

Lovers: Adam debuted his new relationship on Tuesday by sharing two photos on Instagram of himself and Natalie in Kirribilli, Sydney. 'You had me at hello,' he captioned the loved-up snaps

Daily Mail Australia reported in August that Francesca and Adam had called it quits.

The break-up came after publicity-loving Francesca, 26, made the uncharacteristic decision to delete all of her social media accounts in March.

However, her Instagram page is now back up and running.

'It was great for a while, but they had very different lifestyles. In the end, it just didn't work out,' a source said at the time.

Parting ways: 'It was great for a while, but they had very different lifestyles. In the end, it just didn't work out,' a source said

Gone to ground: The split came after publicity-loving Francesca made the uncharacteristic decision to delete all of her social media accounts in March

Last month, Adam broke his silence on their split after he was spotted on the dating app Hinge.

'Francesca and I are still really good friends and I have nothing further to say,' Adam told The Sun-Herald.

The socialite, who lives in a $16million penthouse in Darlinghurst, had confirmed last December she and Adam were a couple, but didn't offer many details.

'Adam is a great guy. We've been dating for a while,' she told The Daily Telegraph.

The heiress' previous boyfriends include Van Hoorn guitarist Joshua Mullane and Melbourne property developer Kelli Holland.

Francesca is the granddaughter of the late Kerry Packer and daughter of Gretel Packer and her ex-husband Nick Barham. Her uncle is casino mogul James Packer.
After Los Angeles was drenched with a rare downpour on Monday, five-time Emmy nominee B.J. Novak decided to share a snap of a Wet Protect poncho bearing his face.

'Years ago, someone mistakenly put an image of me on a public domain site, and now apparently I am on products all around the world,' the 42-year-old comedian - who boasts 2.7M social media followers - explained via Instastory.

'But I am too amused to do anything about it.'

'Stay dry today!' After Los Angeles was drenched with a rare downpour on Monday, five-time Emmy nominee B.J. Novak decided to share a snap of a Wet Protect poncho bearing his face

The 42-year-old comedian explained via Instastory: 'Years ago, someone mistakenly put an image of me on a public domain site, and now apparently I am on products all around the world, but I am too amused to do anything about it'

Turns out, B.J. (short for Benjamin Joseph) also appears on Rainbow Art face paint packaging in Uruguay and the cologne Encounter packaging in Sweden.

Novak's stubbly face could also be seen on the boxes for Kulang's electric razor and Guo Wei's hair clippers from China.

It's ironic considering the Massachusetts-born triple threat's character from The Office used the faces of his co-workers Phyllis and Oscar to sell pesto and salsa without their permission during season seven episode 'Garage Sale' in 2011.

Not only did B.J. portray Dunder Mifflin's disgraced VP of Sales Ryan Howard - but he also served as one of the writers, executive producers, and directors on the NBC mockumentary sitcom.

World famous: Turns out, B.J. (short for Benjamin Joseph) also appears on Rainbow Art face paint packaging in Uruguay and the cologne Encounter packaging in Sweden

For all your hair removal needs! Novak's stubbly face could also be seen on the boxes for Kulang's electric razor and Guo Wei's hair clippers from China

Novak - who used to date Mindy Kaling - last made headlines for rumors he's romancing Mad Men alum Kiernan Shipka, who's literally half his age.

The Harvard University grad admitted it hurt when his new five-episode FX on Hulu anthology series B.J. Novak Presents: The Premise scored dismal reviews from critics and audiences alike.

'Everyone has that thing that they're completely self-conscious about, completely terrified that people will notice about them,' B.J. explained to NPR last month.

Mama Sally's Homemade Pesto! It's ironic considering the Massachusetts-born triple threat's character from The Office used the faces of his co-workers Phyllis and Oscar to sell pesto and salsa without their permission during season seven episode 'Garage Sale' in 2011

Season one portrait in 2005! Not only did B.J. (L) portray Dunder Mifflin's disgraced VP of Sales Ryan Howard - but he also served as one of the writers, executive producers, and directors on the NBC mockumentary sitcom

'And sure enough, that is what everybody shouts at you as though you don't know it as though I don't have all of these fears about myself, my appearance, my writing, all of this imposter syndrome. So when people yell, "You're an imposter!" you say, "I know! I know!"

'So often we are our own worst critics and we are the people that have thought about ourselves the most. Unless you get a thick skin over time, which I have a medium skin. Of course it hurts!'

The Premise - which concluded October 7 - featured Ed Asner, Ben Platt, Jon Bernthal, Beau Bridges, Daniel Dae Kim, Lucas Hedges, O'Shea Jackson Jr., Andy Cohen, Dan Savage, and Kaitlyn Dever.

Mindy Kaling's ex-boyfriend: Novak (pictured Tuesday) last made headlines for rumors he's romancing Mad Men alum Kiernan Shipka, who's literally half his age

'I have a medium skin - not thick skin': The Harvard University grad admitted it 'hurt' when his new five-episode FX on Hulu anthology series B.J. Novak Presents: The Premise scored dismal reviews from critics and audiences alike

Novak will next make his feature directorial debut with Focus Features' 2022 horror film Vengeance, which resumed production in Santa Fe, NM in March.

The Punk'd alum also wrote, produced, and starred as Ben Manalowitz in the flick alongside Ashton Kutcher, Issa Rae, Dove Cameron, Boyd Holbrook, Lio Tipton, and J. Smith-Cameron.

Vengeance centers on a Manhattan radio host, who 'attempts to solve the murder of his girlfriend and travels down south to investigate the circumstances of her death and discover what happened to her.'
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The high glamour of Hollywood was traded for the fast fashion of Oxford Street as Angelina Jolie made an unlikely appearance at a popular high street clothes shop on Tuesday.

The Gone In 60 Seconds actress was joined by daughter Vivienne Jolie-Pitt, 13, for an impromptu visit to the central London branch of H&M, where they were surrounded by stunned shoppers.

With her instantly recognisable features concealed behind a precautionary face covering, Angelina, 46, browsed the budget rails for some affordable apparel, including basic T-shirts, while Vivienne remained by her side.

Unexpected: The high glamour of Hollywood was traded for the fast fashion of Oxford Street as Angelina Jolie and daughter Vivienne made an unlikely appearance at a central London branch of H&M on Tuesday

Don't mind me: With her instantly recognisable features concealed behind a precautionary face covering, Angelina made her way into the store alongside her 13-year old daughter

The actress wore a monochrome houndstooth coat while making her way around the three-level store, a popular destination for fashion conscious teenagers and shoppers constrained to tight budgets.

Fortunately Angelina, whose net worth is estimated to be $120million, had no need to watch the purse strings as she paid for a range of items selected by her teenage daughter, her youngest biological child with ex Brad Pitt.

Vivienne looked relaxed in a casual white T-shirt and grey joggers, while her own face covering remained firmly in place as she followed her mother around the packed store.

Angelina is a mother to six children in total; adopted sons Maddox, 20, and Pax, 17, and adopted daughter Zahara, 16, as well as Shiloh, 15, and twins Knox and Vivienne from her former marriage to fellow actor Brad Pitt.

Make way: Stunned shoppers looked on as mother and daughter made their way across the busy central London street with an obligatory bodyguard

Stay close: Angelina draped a protective arm over her daughter's shoulder as they mingled with pedestrians outside the store

Stylish: The actress wore a monochrome houndstooth coat while making her way around the three-level store, a popular destination for fashion conscious teenagers

What about this one Viv? Angelina was seen browsing the budget rails for some affordable apparel on Tuesday

Star-struck shoppers looked on as the celebrated actress draped a protective arm around Vivienne, who looked mildly startled by the attention their visit to the store inevitably generated.

Angelina appeared to be taking a short break from her promotional commitments after arriving in London via Italy, where she attended the 16th Rome Film Festival premiere of her new film Eternals on Sunday evening.

Eternals is a 2021 Marvel film based on the fictional race of humanoids of the same name which appears in the American comic books.

Side by side: But Vivienne looked mildly startled by the attention their visit to the store inevitably generated

Day off: Angelina appeared to be taking a short break from her promotional commitments for new film Eternals

Something for The Weeknd? The actress is rumoured to be dating the R&B star, with whom she has been seen during nights out in Los Angeles

Splashing out: Angelina, whose net worth is estimated to be $120million, had no cause to watch the purse strings during her latest shopping trip

If the shoe fits: The actress idled next to a shelving unit filled with affordable high-top trainers during her visit

The film sees the Eternals, an immortal alien race, come out of hiding for thousands of years to protect Earth from their evil counterparts, the Deviants.

The movie, which premiered in Los Angeles earlier this month and then in Rome on Sunday evening, stars Angelina as elite warrior Thena and Gemma as the character Sersi.

Earlier this month, Angelina said the diversity in the cast is 'how it always should have been.' The actress appears as part of a superhero ensemble featuring queer characters, people of colour and deaf actress Lauren Ridloff.

Hollywood glamour: Angelina stood out as she made her way back to her car with young daughter Vivienne on Tuesday

You're surrounded: Bodyguards were close by as the pair made the most of their free time in the English capital

Exit! Angelina left the toy store closey followed by her daughter

Laden down! Members of Angelina's entourage were seen laden with carrier bags

Outing: It came hours after they were spotted at the H&M store

Load her up! One man put the bags of toys into the boot of a car

She told Variety: 'What's really quite stunning is that when we walked out all of us together, it didn't feel like: "This is so new and cool," it felt like: "This is how it always should have been." Why did it take so long? It felt so right'.

She was asked why she feels it takes so long, and while she has 'many things' to say on the subject, she focused on the idea that people should watch the film without actually focusing on its 'diversity.' She added: 'I could say many things, and I could go on for a while, but I think...it is so good to just bust a hole right in that...'

The star argued: 'What I hope is that when people watch this film, they're not seeing it and saying: "Oh, this is a film about diversity. This is a film that shows this person can be a superhero." 'They'll just say: "Well of course that person's a superhero, and of course that person also is. Of course."'

Centre of attention: Angelina Jolie once again claimed the spotlight as she attended the 16th Rome Film Festival screening of her new film Eternals in the Italian capital on Sunday evening

In good company: The celebrated actress was accompanied by daughters Shiloh, 15, and Zahara, 16, as she greeted a wave of photographers after making her way onto the star-studded red carpet

'And more shame on us for every questioning that they couldn't be because: "Of course."'

The film - which is set to hit the big screen next month - is written and directed by Nomadland filmmaker Chloe Zhao. As well as Angelina, Gemma and Ridloff, the cast of heroes also features Richard Madden, Kumail Nanjiani, Lia McHugh, Brian Tyree Henry, Barry Keoghan, Don Lee and Salma Hayek.

Meanwhile, Kit Harington will feature as Dane Whitman, also known as the Black Knight.

Eternals, which features a score by Ramin Djawadi of Game Of Thrones fame, will get a wide theatrical release on November 5.

Box office smash? Angelina was promoting the new film Eternals at the film festival in the Italian city which is set to be released November 5th

Glam: Both daughters looked gorgeous in their red-carpet attire, with Zahara opting for a white, Grecian-inspired gown while Shiloh chose a black knee-length frock
Chris Jensen's relationship with Jaimie Gardner came to an explosive end shortly after their honeymoon on Married At First Sight.

And one year after he signed up for the Nine dating show, the FIFO worker, 33, has landed an unexpected new role as the model of a Vikings romance novel.

The Sunshine Coast father-of-two has been transformed into a historical viking for Monica James' new book, North of the Stars.

Remember me? Married At First Sight groom Chris Jensen, 33, has landed an unexpected new role as the cover model of Monica James's Vikings romance novel

Transformation: The Sunshine Coast father-of-two has been transformed into a historical viking for Monica James' new book, North of the Stars

'It worked out pretty well for me. I've actually got Danish-Viking heritage in me,' Chris told Daily Mail Australia on Wednesday.

'Funny enough it had nothing to do with me being on MAFS, there were some other cover models that know my partner Tayla, and my name got popped up to the photographer,' he said.

'It was my most enjoyable shoot, getting into that character was so much fun,' he added.

'It worked out pretty well for me. I've actually got Danish-Viking heritage in me,' Chris told Daily Mail Australia on Wednesday. Pictured with author Monica James

Chris explained that he ultimately decided to accept the gig as something to pass on to his two daughters.

'It's just something to remind them to never take life too seriously and have fun while you can,' he said.

It comes just three months after Chris announced that he has found love again with cosmetic tattooist Tayla Made.

Pro: This isn't Chris' first time behind the camera. Back in July he stripped down into his underwear for raunchy shoot for the Manscapes charity calendar

The pair first met at a photo shoot and 'everything started from there'.

'I found the woman I was looking for on MAFS. Well, she found me,' he told Daily Mail Australia at the time.

'Tayla has a big heart and is incredibly sweet to me and both my daughters.'

Happy in love: It comes just three months after Chris announced that he has found love again with cosmetic tattooist Tayla Made

Stepmother: 'Tayla has a big heart and is incredibly sweet to me and both my daughters,' he told Daily Mail Australia. Tayla is pictured here with Chris' daughters

'I have found the person that challenges me to be the best version of myself I can be. Tayla has captured my heart through compassion, kindness and love,' he wrote.

Chris was trapped in a disastrous union with high-maintenance Bondi brand manager Jaimie on this year's season of Married At First Sight.

He stormed out of the experiment soon after he and Jaimie checked into their suite.

Nightmare: Chris was trapped in a disastrous union with high-maintenance Bondi-based brand manager Jaimie Gardner on this year's season of Married At First Sight

A source told Daily Mail Australia he decided to skip the cast reunion because he 'didn't want to put himself in a position' that would lead to more conflict with Jaimie.

'He doesn't want to see her again. He's not the sort of person that likes to purposely walk into confrontation. It's the complete opposite of what he stands for,' they said.

'Jaimie tried to convince him to stay and begged him to stop being too nice to make her attitude and what she was saying about him look okay.'
Film producer Randall Emmett was seen for the first time since reportedly ending his three-year engagement with fiancee Lala Kent earlier this month.

On Tuesday morning, the dad-of-three, 50, was seen taking a tense phone call, which lasted around 20 minutes, near a dumpster in Los Angeles.

For his outing, he sported an all-black ensemble, which consisted of a plain black t-shirt, matching jeans and a leather backpack slung on his shoulder.

Tense: Film producer Randall Emmett was seen for the first time since ending his three-year engagement with fiancee Lala Kent earlier this month

The couple's shocking split comes just seven months after they welcomed their daughter Ocean.

Emmett is rumored to have cheated on his partner, who has temporarily moved into the Beverly Hills Hotel, on a work trip in Nashville, Tennessee recently, according to Page Six.

'Randall always lives a double life,' a source told the outlet. 'He lives the life of a husband or boyfriend, and then he lives the life of a serial partier and then goes on a bender.'

Over? On Tuesday morning, the dad-of-three, 50, was seen taking a tense phone call, which lasted around 20 minutes, near a dumpster in Los Angeles; seen in 2019

Tragic: The couple's shocking split comes just seven months after they welcomed their daughter Ocean (pictured in 2019)

Amid the claims, Kent purged her social media pages of her husband-to-be. And she liked a post that accused him of cheating on her following video posted to social media of him partying in Nashville.

She even took to Instagram to share a video of herself moving into the BHH while Beyonces Sorry played.

Kent and Emmett initially met in 2015, and they began a relationship not long after they made each other's acquaintance.

Unbelievable: Emmett is rumored to have cheated on his partner, who has temporarily moved into the Beverly Hills Hotel, on a work trip in Nashville, Tennessee recently, according to Page Six; seen in 2019

Prior to becoming involved with the social media personality, the producer was married to his first wife, Ambyr Childers, with whom he shared two children London, 11, and Rylee, six.

The two initially separated in 2015, and although they reconciled, they went on to formally dissolve their union in 2017.

Emmett and Kent went public with their relationship in 2018, and the Midnight in the Switchgrass director popped the question that same year.

The wedding that won't happen: Last week she also showed photos of the wedding dress she was supposed to wear for her 2020 wedding to Randall if the ceremony had not been delayed by the pandemic

The pair initially planned to have their wedding ceremony in April of 2020, although they postponed their plans in response to the ongoing state of the global pandemic.

The two later rescheduled their nuptials and went on to announced that they were expecting to bring a child into their lives last September.

Kent eventually shared a picture of Ocean to her Instagram account for the first time not long after she gave birth in March.

Moving quickly: Earlier this month the star expressed that she would begin trying for another baby the 'second' her daughter Ocean turned one

All seemed fine between the power couple a week ago.

She said she was 'ready to go' with regard to having a second baby with Randall.

The 31-year-old reality television personality spoke to People during Travel & Give's fourth annual fundraiser in West Hollywood and told the media outlet about her desire to expand her family.

Two of a kind: Kent and Emmett initially met in 2015 and began a relationship not long after they met

During the event, Kent noted that the 'second' her daughter turned one, she and Emmett, 50, would be 'back at it with the calendar that shows ovulation.'

The reality television personality also told the media outlet that 'I'm oversharing with you but that's how it goes.'

And two weeks ago she also showed photos of the wedding dress she was supposed to wear for her 2020 wedding to Randall if the ceremony had not been delayed by the pandemic.

Milestones: The pair went public with their relationship in 2018, and the producer popped the big question that same year

Lala said she was inspired to post some photos of the gown after a 'beautiful conversation' with her stylist.

'I wanted to share my wedding dress that I was going to wear on April 18th 2020,' the star captioned her slideshow. 'This dress was custom designed by [Alexandra Renee Scott].'

When asked if she would be wearing it on her special day, which will take place next year by a fan in her comment section, Kent replied she and her designer are 'going to start from scratch.'
Tom Purcell, author of "Misadventures of a 1970's Childhood," a humorous memoir available at amazon.com, is a Pittsburgh Tribune-Review humor columnist
Following the car crash this morning which led to the death of Pastor Kevin O. Smith, the man at the epicenter of the recent bizarre human sacrifice saga in Montego Bay, members of the Dancehall fraternity have reacted to the passing of the clergyman.

According to the Jamaica Gleaner, Smith was being transferred from Montego Bay to Kingston by police officers, to face murder and other charges, linked to the religious ritual in which two people were killed at his church the Pathways International Kingdom Restoration Ministries in Montego Bay on Sunday, October 17.

Reports from the Jamaica Constabulary Force are that a police officer also perished in the crash, which happened along the Bog Walk bypass in St Catherine, the home parish of the pastor at about 9:30 this morning.

Controversial music selector Foota Hype, was among the first to take to Instagram to pour skepticism on what transpired, questioning whether or not the pastors demise was staged.

I have one question for the class today: why was the so-called dead pastor wearing a mask the whole time? he asked his followers on Instagram before taking to YouTube to do a live feed in which he questioned the sequence of events and said the entire scenario appeared shady.

There were some artists, like the general public, who had likened the events involving the pastor to a Netflix series, as according to them, never in their wildest dreams would they have thought that human sacrifices and the ensuing shenanigans, would be a reality in Jamaica.

Den a suh di show dun? Mr Lexx quipped on ZJ Sparks IG page where the news of the crash was posted. He later posted a doctored photo of the pastor on his own IG page and made his skepticism known noting: New passport pic loading..

Whistle and walks away.

For his part, JaFrass, commenting on The Star tabloids IG page noted: Right now #squidgame nuh have nothing over this yah movie yah, while producer Teflon Zincfence had a quip of his own noting: Jamaica start early today before adding: God Expose him & Satan took him out #demons a travel with him #DEEP.

ZJ Sparks pointed to the ominousness of the number nine, which appeared to be a favorite number of Smiths based on his frequent use of the numbers 999 in his Facebook posts.

What are the odds? The accident took place on CHURCH ROAD in St Catherine, the parish he is from. He dies on the 9th day after the incident, 9 sumn inna di mawnin wid approx 9 officers who were a part of the team transporting him to Kgn, she said.

The drama involving smith unfolded two Sundays ago when a joint team of Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) soldiers and police officers stormed the church at about 7 o clock that evening, after they reportedly received information that the religious cult was in the process of sacrificing some of its members.

Upon infiltrating the premises, the security forces were reportedly shot at by members of the religious cult. When the gunfire ended, the soldiers and police searched the building and found the body of a woman clad in white, who had been sacrificed, lying face down with her throat slashed, allegedly by a member of the church.

Additional reports are that a male member of the church was also discovered lying suffering from stab and gunshot wounds to his back, and reportedly said that he was shot and stabbed by the pastor. The man reportedly told the security forces that he was about to be sacrificed by the religious cult.

In addition to the two church members who were killed, a third man who attacked the security forces with a knife was shot dead.

A male member of the church who allegedly attacked the lawmen with a knife was shot dead by the security forces, while Smith was taken into custody along with a bevy of female members of the church and their male counterparts.
Unfortunately, Dancehall star Skillibeng failed to debut on the Billboard Reggae Albums chart this week with his new studio project, the Crocodile Teeth LP. However, Xyclone has landed his fifth entry on the chart at No. 9 with his new album, The Sounds of South America.

Released on October 15, The Sounds of South America was the Dancehall artists seventh album. The 11-track collection arrived with a video for the lead single Its You That I Need, which was produced by Bobby Konders of Massive B and remixed by Willy Chin from the Grammy-winning group Black Chiney.

According to data provided to DancehallMag by Billboards sales tracker MRC Data, Xyclones The Sounds Of South America had the equivalent of 1,065 total units of consumption from sales and streaming in the United States in its first week of release, including 1,064 in pure album sales.

Xyclones previous Billboard-charting albums were Sounds Of Africa (2019), The Year Of The Wolf (2019), 2774 Waterford Parkway (2018), and From The Basement To The Big Leagues (2016).

Meanwhile, Skillibengs Crocodile Teeth LP, which was released on October 15 and featured Bobby Shmurda, Rich the Kid, Lil Zack, Stefflon Don, Popcaan, Spice, and Davianah, had the equivalent of 627 total units of consumption from sales and streaming in the U.S. in its first week of release, including 660,949 audio streams and 35,475 video streams.

The 12-track albums total first-week consumption included 123 in pure album sales, according to MRC Data.

Skillis last project, The Prodigy: Ladies Only Edition, had sold 300 total units from sales and streaming in the US during its first week of release in June 2021. That included 25 copies in pure album sales.

The weekly sales and streaming-driven Billboard Reggae Albums chart ranks the 10 most popular Reggae albums in the US, based on consumption metrics that are measured in equivalent album units. Each of those units represents one album sale or 10 individual tracks sold from an album or 3,750 ad-supported or 1,250 paid/subscriptions streams from an album via audio or video streams.

On the chart this week, Reggae legend Bob Marley & The Wailers are No. 1 for the 94th consecutive week, with Legend  a greatest hits collection first released in May 1984 by Island Records. The compilation moved 9,819 total units from sales and streaming in the US last week, including 2,676 in pure album sales.

Shaggys Best of Shaggy: The Boombastic Collection is at No. 2, followed by Jason Mrazs Love For The Good at No. 3.

UB40s Greatest Hits album is at No. 4, followed by American band Stick Figure at No. 5 with their World On Fire album.

Dancehall superstar Sean Paul is at No. 6 with his Dutty Classics Collection, followed by Stick Figure at No. 7 with Set In Stone, and Sean Paul, again, at No. 8 with his Grammy-winning Dutty Rock album.

As mentioned before, Xyclone holds the No. 9 position, while Bob Marley & The Wailers appear on the chart again at No. 10 with their Gold album.
Following reports yesterday about the arrest of producer Shab Don, Dancehall entertainer Squash has spoken on the matter, demanding the release of the Any Weather producer.

Reports are that Shab Don was nabbed by the Police Special Operations Unit, and was placed in police custody at the Half-Way-Tree Police Station, in St. Andrew.

According to a Star report, the commanding officer of the St Andrew Central Police Division, Senior Superintendent Marlon Nesbeth, said that Shab Don, whose given name is Linval Thompson Jr., was apprehended by lawmen from the St Catherine South Police Division.

The police reported yesterday, that the producer was to be questioned about an illegal firearm that was allegedly recovered by officers of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) from a motor vehicle in which Thompson and another person were reportedly travelling.

Squash took to social media recently to speak to his fans and during the exchange demanded that Shab Don be released.

Di world get wicked yah now enuh. Yeh dawghow yuh mean? Free bombocaat Shab Don. Whappen to oonu? One brogad; family fi life Give thanks to di most high, Jah Rastafari he said, among other things.

Squashs statements come just over a month after he defended Shab Don in a song titled No Doubt, which was written in response to YouTuber Sir Ps accusations that the producer was one of Montego Bays main instigators of violent crimes, and also the alleged orchestrator of the 2017 incident in which Squashs brother, 20-year-old Daniel Dan Dan Whittaker, was killed in an alleged confrontation with the police.

In No Doubt, Squash had repudiated Sir Ps allegations and declared that his 6ixx outfit to which Shab Don was aligned, had loyalty and trust as their core values.

Sir P had, however, responded in a video on his popular Politricks Watch channel jeering Squash while saying that the Beat Dem Bad artist was coerced into singing the song, as his tone was listless in the track and the fear of Shab Don was evident in his voice.

Known for never ever showing his face in pictures, Shab Don was outed by Sir P in September when the vlogger showed a clear portrait photograph of the producer on his YouTube channel.

On Nationwide News Networks Instagram page where the said photograph shared by Sir P was used, along with a snippet about Shab Dons arrest, the vloggers fans swarmed the post and hailed Sir P for his sleuth work, some demanding that Nationwide credit the photo to Sir P.

All him supposed to hate sir p him face deh everywhere now , one commenter said.

All who nah follow and subscribe to Politricks Watch Duh di right thing , another added.

Shab Don, who is a son of Montego Bay, has produced songs such Vybz Kartels World Government, Bad Mind on the One Don riddim and Any Weather which was the first single to be released on his most renowned riddim, the G6ixx. His record label was also behind Teejays Shub Out and Henny and Weed and Squashs Money Fever.

Among his other productions are Baby Yuh Tight by Popcaan and Nuh Rate Dem by Jahvillani.

Shab Don Records which comprises Thompson Jr and Carlos Clarke, became one of the most sought-after production houses around 2019. The label was initially formed as a production outfit for the Squash-led 6ix group which was based in Montego Bay, and specialized in Dancehall and Trap fusions.

In an interview, with the Star in 2019, Shab Don had pointed out that he was from Salt Spring in Montego Bay and knew Squash as a youngster growing up in the community. So when him just come out of lock-up, we seh we a go form we own label and push we own music, he had said.
NAIROBI, Kenya (AP)  Moderna on Tuesday said it will make up to 110 million doses of its COVID-19 vaccine available to African countries, which local officials called a breakthrough on the world's least vaccinated continent.

The announcement said Moderna is prepared to deliver the first 15 million doses by the end of this year, with 35 million in the first quarter of 2022 and up to 60 million in the second quarter. It says all doses are offered at Modernas lowest tiered price.

It is a great day for us, the African Union special envoy on COVID-19, Strive Masiyiwa, told reporters, after African nations faced months of frustration over rich countries' vaccine hoarding and delayed deliveries of doses.

He thanked the United States for essentially allowing African nations to go to the head of the line to buy the Moderna doses. A White House official said the U.S. will defer delivery of about 33 million Moderna doses between December and February that were originally intended for the U.S. so that the AU can buy them instead.

Masiyiwa stressed that African countries are first purchasing 50 million Moderna vaccines with the option for 20 million a month in April, May and June, depending on the company's performance in December. We are in position to secure more vaccines from Moderna but want to see more concrete details emerging about their production in Africa, he said.

If the full contract with Moderna is activated, African nations can reach the goal of vaccinating 450 million people by September 2022, Masiyiwa said. That's half of the target of vaccinating 70% of the continent's population, or 900 million people. African nations earlier struck a deal with Johnson & Johnson for up to 400 million doses.

Moderna called this the first step in our long-term partnership with the African Union, which has been outspoken about the need for many more COVID-19 vaccine doses.

Africa and its 1.3 billion people remain the least-vaccinated region of the world against COVID-19, with just over 5% fully vaccinated.

Moderna said this agreement is separate from its deal with the global COVAX project to supply up to 500 million doses from late this year through 2022. COVAX aims to supply doses to low- and middle-income countries.

And yet with all these vaccines, the African continent will not hit the mark of fully vaccinating 10% of its population by the end of this year, said Vera Songwe, executive secretary of the U.N. Economic Commission for Africa.

Less than 9% of the population in Africa has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, said Seth Berkley of GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, calling it unacceptable.

He said COVAX by the end of this year expects to have 470 million doses available for Africa and exceed 900 million doses by the end of March. He said 127 million doses have been delivered so far.

___

Zeke Miller in Washington contributed.
President Joe Biden and the spiritual leader of Eastern Orthodox Christians discussed ways to fight climate change and to end the coronavirus pandemic as well as the importance of religious freedom during an Oval Office session Monday.

Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, 81, met separately with Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken not long after being hospitalized overnight for feeling unwell at the outset of his 12-day visit to the United States.

While Bartholomews visit was expected to draw attention to the plight of the small Orthodox Christian minority in his homeland of Turkey, he took a diplomatic tone at an earlier breakfast meeting hosted by Turkish Ambassador Hasan Murat Mercan, according to remarks released by the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Bartholomew said his mission as patriarch is purely spiritual, and demonstrates how Turkey can be  not only an inclusive society, but a bridge-builder between East and West. He called the ambassadors welcome an example of mutual dialogue and respect.

The remarks did not refer to ongoing sore points such as the Turkish governments closure of an Orthodox seminary on the Turkish island of Halki 50 years ago.

Blinken, however, reaffirmed that the reopening of the Halki Seminary remains a continued priority according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price.

They discussed the U.S. commitment to supporting religious freedom around the world and opportunities to work with the Orthodox Christian community worldwide on issues of shared concern, as well as with religious minorities in Turkey and the region, Price said.

The White House said the meeting between Bartholomew and Biden underscored the critical role that faith communities play in confronting the range of global challenges we all face.

Bartholomew said at the White House that he was abundantly satisfied with his visit, praising Biden as a man of faith, and man of vision.

We cannot allow any short sighted political agendas to interfere with our relationships, that are through, and in, Christ Jesus, the Lord and Savior of the world. he said.

Blinken also praised the remarkable leadership Bartholomew, sometimes known as the green patriarch, has shown in calling for solutions to the climate crisis.

Bartholomew also said Monday he'd join with Pope Francis and the leaders of other major religions around the world to call on the global community to facilitate COVID-19 vaccinations for the world, especially for poor countries.

Bartholomew was released from a Washington hospital Monday morning after an overnight stay. He was brought to George Washington University Hospital on Sunday night after he felt unwell due to the long flight on Saturday and the busy schedule of events, according to the Greek Orthodox archdiocese.

Bartholomew is the patriarch of Constantinople, based in Turkey. He is considered first among equals among Eastern Orthodox patriarchs, which gives him prominence but not the power of a Catholic pope. He does oversee Greek Orthodox and some other jurisdictions, although large portions of the Eastern Orthodox world are self-governing under their own patriarchs.

___

Associated Press writer Alexandra Jaffe contributed to this report.

___

Associated Press religion coverage receives support from the Lilly Endowment through The Conversation U.S. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
If we had it our way, my hunch is that most pregnant women would opt to go shoe-less for at least the second half of their pregnancies. The experience is different for every person, but those months are commonly marked by swollen feet, achy legs, and increasing levels of discomfort, especially in the lower extremities.

While some days I can pull that offfreelance writing definitely has its perksits still critical to have a solid lineup of shoes to slip on for errands, dinners out, dog walks, baby showers, coffee dates, and such. (Running, my activity of choice, requires special shoe considerations.)

My main requirements for shoes these days are that theyre comfortable, relatively cute, and easy to slip on. Trust me: now is not the time for lots of laces, ties, buckles, or straps. Here are six pairs that my trusty network of currently (or recently pregnant friends) and I recommend to fellow mothers-in-the-making:

Miller Cloud by Tory Burch

Though not inexpensive at $228 a pair, the Miller Cloud by Tory Burch is a gorgeous shoe that offers unexpected comfort. One friend who received them as a gift when she was pregnant calls them super comfortable and supportive. Ive noticed that she still wears them often, nearly 18 months after her little girl was born, which can only be a good sign.

The Miller Cloud is lightweight and ergonomic, with a leather upper, a rubber sole, and a leather-wrapped dual-density foam insole. The iconic Tory Burch logo, which makes up the bulk of the strap, is the stylish cherry on top. Choose between ivory, red, brown, and black, and slip them on when you want to add a nice little touch to any outfit.

The Starling by Birdies

If youre still going into an office or classroom, or have another need for flats, the Starling by Birdies is an excellent choice. Priced from $95 to $140 depending on the model, this shoe was my sisters go-to when she was pregnant with her first child and working in a law office every day. It was also her top recommendation when I told her I was working on this round-up.

The Starling comes in three classic colors (black velvet, cheetah calf hair, and latte suede), plus four seasonal offerings (blue glitter, light pink glitter, black glitter, and woven yellow). Some models are vegan, if youre into that, and all feature a 10 mm heel and a non-slip rubber sole, making them indoor- and outdoor-friendly. For women with especially swollen feet, keep in mind that the black velvet is offered in two widths: medium and wide.

Wicked Good Moccasins by L.L.Bean

Women's Wicked Good Moccasins llbean.com $79.00 Shop Now

Work-from-homers, have I got a secret for you: the $79 Wicked Good Moccasins by L.L.Bean. Unless Im barefoot, its almost a guarantee that these moccasins are warming my feet while Im cooking, tidying up, or working in my home office. I really liked them pre-pregnancy, but now that Im in my final eight weeks, I adore them.

The Wicked Good Moccasins are made from sheepskin, which is naturally warm and draws moisture away from the feet, and have a thermoplastic rubber outside. As their name suggests, theyre exceptionally comfortable  so much so that L.L.Bean claims to sell a pair every 7 seconds during peak sales in December. Choose from seven colors (black, maroon, light brown, light blue, dark brown, red, and tan), go for the wide width if needed, and plan on wearing these moccasins all winter long.

Arizona Sandal by Birkenstock

Arizona Birkenstock Birkenstock $99.95 Shop Now

Honestly, what cant a worn-in pair of Birkenstocks do? I wore mine for a year-long trip around the world, and continue to wear their replacements on a daily basis. One friend, whose first son just turned one, agrees. I wore/wear my Birkenstocks all the time! she says about her favorite model, the Arizona, which rings in just under $100. Like other women in her shoes, she appreciates that she could choose between regular/wide and medium/narrow.

The most classic of all Birkenstocks, the Arizona style comes in two colors: stone and mocha. It features two straps (that rarely if ever need adjusting), a lightweight construction, and an arch-supporting cork footbed that molds to any foot. Like all other models from the German brand, theyre comfortable, durable, reliable, and timeless.

Slip-On Double Buckle Slides by LUFFYMOMO

LUFFYMOMO Comfort Footbed Eva Flip fiop Thong Sandals Luffymomo amazon.com $16.99 Shop Now

You may have noticed a rubbery-looking version of the Birkenstock Arizona gaining traction in the last year or so. Im here to tell you that theres room in your life for both the real leather ones and the cheaper EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) ones  especially considering that you can get a pair of the latter from LUFFYMOMO (or a few other competitors) for less than $20.

My sister and I are of the same opinion that these double-buckle slides are winners for pregnant women. Not only is the price unbeatable, but theyre also roomy, comfortable, and multi-functional, perfect for rainy walks, beach trips, locker rooms, and more. Once youve decided between the 34 colors and patterns theyre offered in. You can treat these as your kick-around sandals that you dont have to worry about keeping clean or dry.

Hanna Leather Block-Heel Mules by Vince

Vince Hanna Leather Block-Heel Mules Vince https://www.neimanmarcus.com $325.00 Shop Now

Heels are not typically the most pregnant-friendly shoe option, but sometimes theyre just necessary. Before I was in a wedding in my second trimester, I tried on all sorts of models to find ones that would be bearable enough to get me to the dancing part of the night, when I invariably change into flats. A pair of mules by Vince not only came through that night but were comfortable enough to wear for all other nice occasions in the last seven months.

While the exact model I bought is no longer available, the Hanna Leather Block-Heel Mules by Vince are a close alternative (though pricier, at $325). They have a 3.5-inch block heel  easy to walk in and just high enough, an open toe, leather lining, and a sufficiently wide upper. The nude color goes with almost any outfit, and the whole look is versatile enough to dress up or down.
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When the shooting of Brahmastra started, Cupids arrow struck Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. The two have been a couple since, with multiple family outings and holidays to boot.Now, we hear that both actors have emptied their date diaries after Brahmastras shooting.

Note that earlier, Ranbir was slated to work on the Sandeep Reddy Vanga film Animal by the end of the year. Now however, he has apparently allotted dates next year. Alia also has wrapped up all her assignments thus far, including her last film production Darlings, and will only be shooting for Jee Le Zara, after director Farhan Akhtar wraps up the shoot of Pukar. According to an industry source, shes only expected to promote Gangubai Kathiawadi, which is to release in January. So both the actors seem to be free for a few days from November until the first few days of January.

Ranbir has pushed the Animal shoot to 2022; besides, he has to Shamshera to promote, which releases in March 2022. The buzz is that the two are getting married in December, which is why theyve kept their date diaries empty, just as Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma had done even as they denied about the wedding before going off to Italy to get married. Hopefully, therell be an official announcement, just as the Kapoors normally do, our source adds.
ANANTAPUR: The state government has confirmed the fee structure for B.Tech, B.Sc Agriculture, Horticulture, Forestery, B.Pharm and B.Arch courses

for the academic session 2021-22. The same fee structure shall be applicable to the next academic year, 2022-23, as well.

Students aspiring for admission through AP EAPCET 2021 counseling must note that the government will reimburse the full fee amount for those belonging to weaker sections such as EWS, SCs, STs and BCs.

This year, 35 per cent of B.Tech seats in private universities in AP shall be filled under the convener quota of AP EAPCET 2021 counseling. The universities have already sent a tentative fee structure, and APSCHE has approved this under the convener quota. A total number of 2,330 B.Tech seats in 4 private universities are to be filled through AP EAMCET 2021 counseling.

The proposals were made for amendments to AP Private University Act, 2006, focusing on providing quality education to students who are socially and financially backward and fill 35 per cent seats under government quota in private universities.

All private universities have conducted Entrance Examinations in June and admitted students in July. Students admitted in various private universities have secured good ranks in EAPMCET. Now they are worried they may have to forego their fees should they choose to cancel their admissions and attend counseling sessions.



Experts say the State Council for Higher Education should stop private universities and autonomous bodies from doing this. Private universities and institutions should be allowed to conduct the admission process after government seats are exhausted. Otherwise, the admission process should be completed by July 31.



Information about the courses, affiliation, approvals and intake should be placed on the website. No university displays the course intake details. Display of details of tuition fee, admission fee, university affiliation fee, infrastructure fee, college fee and other fee should be mandatory on the college websites.



The state council for higher education should name an ombudsman with independent authority to look after the students grievances. Thousands of students have deposited their SSC, Intermediate, Diploma Marks memorandums and original degree certificates. M.Tech/ MCA/MBA students who have completed their course in 2019 have not received their provisional certificates, original Degree certificates and Marks Memos. The same is the case with B.Tech and Diploma students.



The state government has fixed 70,000 as tuition fee for a private university located in a rental building in Anantapur. Though this university started in 2017, it does not have infrastructure and has not gone for UGC inspections so far.



Over the last two decades, India has witnessed a rapid rise in the number of private universities. Various state governments have encouraged and justified this growth in order to increase enrolment in higher education, and private entities have welcomed this state encouragement. However, the implications of this move on access to higher education and the variety of other challenges that it presents are debated. Lack of vigilance by the government on universities led to a situation of these institutions having poor amenities.



This spectacular growth in the number of deemed universities decelerated after 2009 as a result of a decision of the MHRD to withdraw recognition of 44 deemed universities and to put an equally large number of institutions under the scanner, based on an assessment of their quality of education and management patterns.



Reports said the Supreme Court had quashed different provisions of the Chhattisgarh Private Universities (Establishment and Operation) Act, 2005, and had upheld the UGC (Establishment of and Maintenance of Standards in Private Universities) Regulations, 2003 (CED 2005; UGC 2003) in 2005.



By bringing better clarity regarding the legal framework for setting up and operating state private universities, this verdict encouraged both state governments and private capital to work on the establishment of state private universities. With the future of deemed universities unclear, private capital began gravitating towards state private universities. As a result, between 2006 and 2018, the number of state private universities swelled from 19 to 290.
Over the past few months, the Director of Public Health said it was likely that the government could impose curbs on unvaccinated people. Representational Image. (PTI)

Hyderabad: Coercion appears to be on the cards to get everyone to take the vaccine against Covid-19. This became evident after Jogulamba-Gadwal district collector Valluru Kranthi issued a fiat to officials to identify vaccination laggards and stop paying pensions to such individuals from November 1.

He also announced cutting off food supply to such individuals declaring that identified unvaccinated people should not be allowed to buy food grains and other food items at ration shops in the district.

And for good measure, just in case there were some lingering doubts or confusion over his determination to follow through with his fiat, the official Twitter handle of the Jogulamba-Gadwal district collector, @Collector_JGL, on Monday also Tweeted these decisions.

Giving further credence to his announcement, Tuesday morning saw news making the rounds that Director of Public Health Dr G. Srinivas Rao too announced that cutting off pensions and ration would be implemented across Telangana from November 1 on anyone who had not received the Covid-19 vaccination.

This is not the first time that some restrictions on unvaccinated people were suggested. Over the past few months, the Director of Public Health said it was likely that the government could impose curbs on unvaccinated people. These measures included a ban on entry into public places, shopping malls, movie theatres and the like.

However, with several TV news channels reporting that state-wide pension and ration cut offs were on the cards, Dr Srinivas Rao issued a denial that the government had no such plans. He denied "making any statement linking COVID vaccination with ration and pensions given by the government," leaving open the possibility that the Jogulamba-Gadwal collector could have well taken a rogue decision without the consent of the state government. Dr Srinivas Rao also said the "government has not taken any such decision," and appealed to people to get vaccinated.

Incidentally, Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao holds the health portfolio as well.

Despite the denial by the Director of Public Health that there was any plan to coerce people to get vaccinated, the Jogulamba-Gadwal collector's Tweet ordering stoppage of pensions and ration supplies to the unvaccinated remained on display till late into Tuesday evening giving credence to the theory that the government was 'testing the waters' on this front.

But the retraction from the director of public health is believed to have been ordered by some top honchos in the government who feared a backlash from the people and a negative impact on the prospects of the TRS candidate Gellu Srinivas Yadav in Huzurabad Assembly bypoll in which he is squared off with former health minister and now BJP candidate Etala Rajendar.
Dr. Madhav underlined that transplant-related mortality is amongst the lowest in India due to adoption of modern technology in treatment.  Representational image/Pixabay

VIJAYAWADA: AP governments Arogyasri scheme is helping patients get treatment for rare diseases, including bone marrow transplant (BMT) surgeries. An overwhelming 90 percent of these surgeries have been done under government-sponsored Arogyasri.

Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, consultant medical oncologist Dr. Krishna Reddy, BMT physician at Manipal Hospital, Vijayawada, announced that their hospital has reached the milestone of completing 50 successful bone marrow transplants, thereby saving lives of both children and adults. Majority of these patients had been operated under Arogyasri.

Another BMT physician Dr. Madhav Danthala explained that both autologous and allogeneic stem cell transplants had been performed to treat a wide range of diseases, such as multiple myeloma, lymphoma, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, APML, aplastic anaemia, neuroblastoma, Wilms tumour and Ewing sarcoma.

Dr. Madhav underlined that transplant-related mortality is amongst the lowest in India due to adoption of modern technology in treatment. We have treated patients of all ages from Anantapur to East Godavari. Our youngest patient is a two-year-old girl, while oldest is 63 years.

Vijayawada Manipal Hospital director Dr. Sudhakar Kantipudi said their hospital is in forefront of performing rare procedures under Arogyasri scheme.
Mullaperiyar dam, built in 1895 on Periyar river in Idukki district of Kerala, is operated by the Tamil Nadu government. (Photo: Facebook/Mullaperiyar Dam)

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan on Tuesday said "something new needs to be done" in Mullaperiyar as the existing dam there is very old and people are working to reach an amicable settlement on the matter.

"I think already everybody knows that the dam is very old. So something new needs to be done. But how to reach an amicable settlement, that is something on which people are working on the matter. Whenever there is any water dispute, then the judiciary is also involved", Governor told reporters here as the water-level in the over-a-century-old dam continued to rise reaching upto 137.60 ft at 9 am today.

The Governor's statement came a day after the Supreme Court directed the supervisory committee to take a "firm decision" on the maximum water level to be maintained in Mullaperiyar dam.

The apex court has directed all the authorities concerned to interact immediately on an urgent basis on the issue saying it has something to do with lives.

The Court told Kerala's counsel that their officers should responsibly interact with the concerned officers of Tamil Nadu and the committee on the issue.

Responding to queries in the Assembly on Monday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan had slammed social media scare mongers claiming 'danger' to Mullaperiyar dam and warned of legal action against such elements.

The CM has also told the state Assembly that the government is committed to its demand for a new dam at Mullaperiyar despite opposition, including from the Centre.

Mullaperiyar dam, built in 1895 on Periyar river in Idukki district of Kerala, is operated by the Tamil Nadu government for its irrigation and power generation needs.

Kerala is insisting on building a new dam, citing safety concerns, but Tamil Nadu is against it, saying the present structure was strong.
OU registrar Dr P. Laxminarayana said 750 scholars were eligible for their PhD. Of them, 350 will receive their degree and 80 gold medals. Gold medals bagged by undergraduate students will be awarded at their respective colleges after the convocation.  DC file photo

HYDERABAD: Women outshone men, winning 68 of the 80 gold medals on offer during the 81st Convocation of Osmania University which will be held on Wednesday.

Announcing this to the media on Monday, OU Vice Chancellor Prof. D. Ravinder said it is a good sign that women are excelling at the university, as most of them are from the rural areas.

Governor Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan, Chancellor of Osmania University, will preside over the convocation. DRDO Chairman Dr G. Satheesh Reddy, who is also secretary, department of defence R&D, will be the chief guest.

The convocation is for students who have passed from OU between 2018 and 2020 and have completed their PhD or have won gold medals.

Prof. Ravinder underlined that women comprising 60 per cent of enrolment in university reflected the success of the government's endeavour to educate girls. It is all the more successful as strength of rural students is at present more in OU than that of their urban counterparts.

OU registrar Dr P. Laxminarayana said 750 scholars were eligible for their PhD. Of them, 350 will receive their degree and 80 gold medals. Gold medals bagged by undergraduate students will be awarded at their respective colleges after the convocation. Certificates of all those who have passed PG, UG, diploma and M. Phil will be sent by post.

Controller of examinations Prof. Sriram Venkatesh asked candidates receiving certificates as well medals to report for convocation before 9.30 am. Those accompanying students will be provided an enclosure, where they can watch the event online. The programme will also be streamed live on social media platforms, he added.
Hyderabad: A division bench of the Telangana High Court on Monday reserved its orders in the three PILs and other petitions that argued against the Election Commission of India (ECI) freeze on the Dalit Bandhu scheme in Huzurabad Assembly constituency.

The bench comprised Chief Justice Satish Chandra Sharma and Justice Rajashekar Reddy, while the petitions were filed by journalist Mallepalli Laxmaiah, member of All India Congress Committee Bukka Judson and another person.

Election Commission counsel Avinash Desai said Huzurabad seat fell vacant on June 12 and the Dalit Bandhu scheme was implemented thereafter. The government order on the introduction and implementation of Dalit Bandhu stated that it was done as a pilot project in this constituency alone. The ECI, therefore, concluded that a direct cash benefit scheme like Dalit Bandhu would impact voters, counsel said.

Bukka Judsons counsel said the ECI had stopped the scheme at the instance of other political parties and under the garb of imposing the model code. The ECI did not state at whose instance it stopped the scheme, or who had lodged a complaint against it, counsel said.

Counsel said that on an earlier occasion, the TRS government had distributed Rs 10,000 per family in Hyderabad under the guise of flood relief, and this was done just before the GHMC elections. Once the state election commission deferred the distribution of money on grounds of elections, the government did not resume the disbursal of relief after the polls. This should not repeat with the Dalit Bandhu scheme, he said.

Raghunath, counsel for Laxmaiah, said the stoppage of the scheme has come as a rude shock and a serious setback to young Dalits who were expecting a huge sum as financial assistance.

Ramachander Rao, additional advocate general, said the scheme was introduced to empower Dalits. In 2015, the state government had floated a scheme to give every Dalit family three acres of land. This did not happen. Now, the government floated the Dalit Bandhu scheme before the election schedule was announced.

He said the scheme was also being implemented in several mandals of Yadadri Bhuvanagiri, Suryapet, Bhadradri-Kothagudem and Nagarkurnool, apart from Huzurabad.
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi has sought details on welfare schemes, bringing back the focus on DMK's protest against his predecessor when it was in opposition, over review meetings and tours, while the government said it was a usual practice which should not be politicised.

The DMK, now in the ruling saddle, said getting to know about welfare schemes is nothing wrong, while its major ally, the Congress, dubbed the move as not in sync with convention and hence wrong.

Chief Secretary V Irai Anbu, who had earlier written to various heads of departments in this regard, averred it was a "usual administrative process" and that it was "not proper to make it a subject of political controversy."

Government sources here indicated on Tuesday that Governor Ravi has sought to know about the functioning of departments and ongoing welfare schemes of both the state and as well as the Centre.

In a letter to heads of departments, Irai Anbu said the Governor, "wishes to know about the functioning of certain departments in the state and its ongoing welfare schemes of both the state as well as the union government."

The Chief Secretary requested the heads to be prepared to apprise the Governor, "about your department's ongoing welfare schemes of both the state and the union government."

A power point presentation may also be prepared for the purpose and it is to be discussed before the presentation.

"The date and time will be intimated soon," the letter dated October 18 said.

Government sources indicated the letter has been sent to department heads which was only a routine official exercise, while Raj Bhavan sources declined to make a comment saying it is 'confidential.'

The letter from the Chief Secretary to the department heads assumes significance as the DMK, when it was in the opposition (2016-21) had staunchly opposed former Governor Banwarilal Purohit's meetings with officials to review schemes and his tour of districts.

The DMK had staged protests against Purohit, waved black flags and dubbed his action an attack on the state's autonomy. The DMK's allies, including the Congress, had also actively participated in such protest demonstrations.

Purohit, had, however, strongly defended his action saying it was within the framework of the Constitution.

Subsequently, Purohit ceased to hold such review meetings though the AIADMK, which was then holding the reins of power, did not object to it.

Meanwhile, in a statement on Tuesday, Irai Anbu said his official communication has turned into "an unnecessary debate."

With the Governor having taken over recently, he had written the letter to the concerned to keep all data on the various development projects ready, the official said.

"It is routine in the administration to collect and keep such data on schemes and implementation. It is not proper to make it a subject of political controversy. Those aware of the government's administrative matters know this is a usual practice," he said.

In its reaction, the ruling DMK said there is nothing wrong in Governor Ravi seeking to know about the welfare schemes.

"In fact, it is the Governor's duty to know about welfare schemes," a DMK spokesperson told PTI.

When asked about his party's opposition to Purohit's review meetings when the AIADMK was in power, spokesperson J Constantine Ravindran said: "Only if the Governor interferes in the administration it is not acceptable. Without the knowledge of the Chief Minister, if the Governor directly instructs officials, that is unacceptable. This is completely different. The Governor only wants to know about departments and welfare schemes implemented by them. There is absolutely nothing wrong in getting to know about such schemes. This is official."

Tamil Nadu Congress Committee president K S Alagiri said a governor interfering in the day to day work of an elected government, or 'reviewing' or making an 'appraisal' is not the convention and hence 'wrong.'

Only in specific circumstances, like a law and order issue or calamity, a Governor may hold discussions with officials.

"Will the President seek to know about what is happening in the Central government ministries/departments," he asked.

The Prime Minister or a Chief Minister, periodically apprising the President and a Governor respectively of government matters is the tradition that is being followed, Alagiri told PTI.

Recalling the opposition to Purohit in the past over review matters and his tours, Alagiri said the present case was also similar.

"This is not the tradition and hence wrong," the TNCC chief said.

Purohit was the Tamil Nadu governor from October 6, 2017 till Ravi assumed office recently.

Ravi was sworn in as Governor of Tamil Nadu on September 18 this year. Previously, he had been Nagaland Governor.

A former IPS officer, he has worked in various capacities including in the CBI and the Intelligence Bureau.

The Congress party had then criticised the Centre for appointing him, saying 'it is suspicious' since a former senior police official was chosen.
On October 17, the Financial Times reported that in August 2021, the Chinese Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) launched a supersonic nuclear capable missile which encircled the globe, to the shock of the American military. Days later the news leaked that the Chinese had in fact tested two hypersonic missiles. White House press secretary Jan Psaki downplayed the threat, saying: We welcome stiff competition, but we do not want that competition to veer into conflict.

The Asian media was not so sanguine about Chinas wanton display of force. In an article entitled China can now nuke any nation from space: guess who empowered them: Bill Clinton, Indian journalist Vikrant Thardak recounts the sordid history of President Clintons secretary of commerce Ron Browns trip to China in 1994 to broker the sales of US nuclear technology to the Communist Party of China (CPC). The brazen stupidity on Clintons part explains why the Chinese do not take diplomacy seriously with the USA. The US elites have no spine left to stand up to Chinese aggression.

The CPCs mouthpiece Global Times declared: The West, led by the United States, will hype and smear Chinas breakthrough as militarisation  This mindset serves only Western-dominated hegemony. New Delhis XTV News reported: Chinas hypersonic missile test was a warning to the US not to interfere with an invasion of Taiwan and India. After Bidens disastrous retreat from Afghanistan, China sees weakness, so Xi Jinping will seize the opportunity to push the US out of the Pacific region.

On October 2, one day after the Peoples Republic of China marked its 72nd National Day with a massive military parade in Beijing, dozens of PLA bomber jets flew across Taiwanese airspace. Chinese engineers were photographed touring the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, 400 miles from Xinjiang, where the Uyghurs are being slaughtered. Indian military officials just confirmed that the PLA has sent 50,000 troops to the India-Tibet border  at 2,167 miles, it is the longest militarised zone on the Asian landmass  and equipped with barracks, helipads, surface to air missiles. In an interview with Indias News X, Gen. K.K. Sinha said: China would not install so many troops on our northern border without intending to strike India. And to strike soon.

Another little told story of great import is the CCPs domination of the United Nations and its agencies (despite the fact that the United States is the largest UN donor and host to the UN headquarters in New York City). China, the only Asian nation with a permanent seat on the Security Council, forbids any discussion of the Uyghur genocide. In September 2021, China hosted UN peacekeeping forces for anti-terrorism drills at a PLA base in Queshan, China. Codenamed Shared Destiny 2021, the troops from China, Mongolia, Pakistan and Thailand, practised security patrols, construction of temporary bases, flying drones with loudspeakers to spot bombs which were disposed of by robots. This story received scant coverage in the West, but all across Asia it was seen as a further confirmation of Chinas master plan for global domination.

If a US company wishes to enter the Chinese market, there is to be no discussion of the Thee Ts  Tibet, Turkestan and Taiwan. The Western powers have meekly complied; not one officially recognises Taiwans sovereignty. In 2009 President Barack Obama declined to meet the Dalai Lama, giving the CPC what it craved  a mortal blow to the Tibet movement; the lone activist group that for decades has exposed the CPCs crimes against humanity. The CPC has killed all discussion of their control of the vast Tibetan plateau, but to ignore Tibet is to misread how the Chinese occupation contributes to economic and military instability in Asia.

When India gained its independence from Britain in 1947, it lost a lot of territory with the partition of Punjab and Bengal and the creation of East and West Pakistan. After declaring victory over Chiang Kai-sheks Nationalists in 1949, Chairman Mao invaded Xinjiang in 1950 and Tibet in 1951, thereby doubling the CPCs landmass. Tibet and Xinjiang, the so-called Western Treasure Houses, are lands filled with riches in minerals, timber, water, and are vital to Chinas control of Asia. In 2000, China launched Xi Bu Dai Fa  the Opening and Development of the Western Regions  which was the pilot project for its global Belt and Road Initiative. Twenty years hence, Beijing now has crisp new railway and road links across Xinjiang and Tibet, which can swiftly deploy troops and weaponry all the way to Central Asia and the Indian border. Genghis Khan had once said: He who controls Tibet controls the world.

With global supply chains collapsing, the globalist narrative of Chinas Peaceful Rise is being sorely tested. Was it prudent to have moved 80 per cent of American manufacturing to Communist Chinese factories which are now running short of power? Should the United States continue to fund the Chinese military with US pension funds? Will the Western powers sit on their hands and blush if the PLA strikes Taiwan? What if Afghanistans Taliban rulers, now equipped with US weaponry, align with the Chinese troops deployed in Tibet, in a bid to slice off Jammu and Kashmir from India?

A diplomat posted from New Delhi: If Taiwan falls, all democracies in Asia are at risk. If Indias democracy falls, the whole world is at risk. President Biden, its now time to decide  which side are you on?
A Facebook post reading If a Kashmiri can sell shawls in Calcutta without fear, a vendor from Darbhanga must be allowed to sell phuchkas in Srinagar without being gunned down recalled a memorandum by Ray Knight of the Indian Civil Service whose father founded The Times of India and The Statesman of Calcutta and who himself edited the latter in 1923-24. Knights memorandum argued that India can never be a nation so long as her peoples are strangers to one another.

That ideal inspired Syama Prasad Mookerjee to break the law and court arrest, leading to his death, in Kashmir in 1953. His hunger strike was in protest against Indian citizens being required to show identity cards to enter Jammu and Kashmir and not being allowed to settle in the state.

Undeniably, his rallying cry Ek desh mein do vidhan, do pradhan aur do nishan nahi challenge (A single country cannot have two constitutions, two prime ministers and two national emblems) still resonates with a certain appeal. Nor is it without some logic. But let us be honest about the facts. If the currently fashionable political thinking holds that the Peace of Westphalia, which ended Europes Thirty Years War in 1648, is not relevant to India, neither is the concept of the nation state which is traced to the Westphalian system.

What the latest spate of violence in Jammu and Kashmir bears out is that the entire region  whether it be a state or Union territories  is under siege, uncomfortable in its identity and seeking a new security system. A 2010 survey claimed that 43 per cent of the population on the Indian side of the ceasefire line  the Line of Control  and 44 per cent in the Pakistan-occupied sector favour complete independence. A year later, an inquiry confirmed that thousands of bullet-ridden bodies were found buried in unmarked graves. The murder, persecution and eviction of Hindus amounts to ethnic cleansing. The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act is suspected of permitting abuse. The mischievous role of the Pakistani intelligence agencies is indisputable. So is the criminality of gangs like the Islamic Resistance Front (TRF), which emerged after Article 370 was abolished and is seen as an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Tayyaba.

The resultant crisis situation feeds suspicion and fuels accusations. The presence of some 600,000 Indian troops may add to tension. Some claim that 47,000 people have been murdered since 1989. Others cite much higher fatality figures. The TRF has reportedly vowed to kill all employees of the Indian State. That can easily mean poor people like the anonymous phuchka seller from Darbhanga of the Facebook posting or any other of the hapless 455 million Indians who must work outside their states or starve, according to the 2011 Census. As Knights memorandum added: At the present moment, the Indian outside his own province is as much a stranger as any European, excepting in the narrow circles where a common education, language and political ambition, all of foreign provenance, have created a superficial unity.

A Tamil and a Haryanvi both know that they are Indians but the bonds of locality, language, religion, customs, food and lifestyle are emotionally more meaningful.

Despite Syama Prasads conviction, India is not a country like England or even France. The single sovereignty of the Mughals never embraced the entirety of todays Republic of India. The conquest of the Indo-Gangetic plain centralised the Maurya empire with its capital at Pataliputra but the empires geographical extent depended on the loyalty of political satraps and military commanders who controlled the outlying provinces.

Since some like to think today that the Mughals were not Indian, we can consider instead Ashokas empire (268-232 BCE), which briefly controlled the subcontinents major urban hubs and arteries before giving way to the Shunga dynasty in Magadha. Ashokas rule extended to Kandahar, where some of his rock edicts stood, but not even the most passionate traditionalist claims that Kandahar is Indian. Most Indians will however insist that Nagaland is a part of India, even though the Naga language, physiognomy, religion, food habits and lifestyle are far removed from the familiar norms of the Indo-Gangetic plain. Unlike Kandahar, however, Nagaland was a part of British India.

Much trouble might end if that basis of modern Indias identity were recognised, respected and accommodated in the political and administrative structure. Diehards who nurse the illusion that a new era of peace and plenty blossomed on August 5, 2019 need to understand the constitutional roots of the Indian State if for no other reason, to improve the future of its deprived millions.

The official propaganda hardly reflects the plight of the masses which underlies all unrest. High unemployment and lack of economic opportunities aggravate Kashmirs already dire situation.

Widespread malnutrition is bringing down the average height of Indians as India slips seven spots to be ranked 101 among 116 countries in the Global Hunger Index. Even Nepal, Pakistan and Bangladesh fare better. With $83.1 billion in repatriated earnings, India leads the global list because we cannot provide a livelihood at home for 17.5 million workers. Similarly, 35,000 high net worth entrepreneurs have migrated since 2014. Every sixth urban Indian lives in a cramped and unsanitary slum. Victims of cyclones, locusts, floods, drought, rising sea levels, water stress, reduced crop yields, and longer and more intense heat waves, Indians also suffer mismanagement: over 100 million dont get their entitled food rations. Yet, India boasts Asias richest tycoon and has 140 billionaires and nearly 700,000 dollar millionaires.

The only way of reconciling these irreconcilables is to honestly admit that disparate entities were brought together under colonial rule and that in 1947 some of them joined with conditions whose legal and moral force time cannot erode. As Arthur Moore, who followed the Knights as editor of The Statesman, had once warned, Pakistan canal disputes, boundary disputes, displaced persons disputes -- all these may be solved; trade between the two countries may be developed; but there will never be satisfactory relations between India and Pakistan till the Kashmir issue is amicably settled.

Moore recommended a confederation. Mahatma Gandhi approved. So did Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, who knew that Kashmir and East Bengal were aspects of the same problem. His daughter solved East Bengals dilemma before the novel and imaginative confederal prescription could be attempted. But that should not prevent all South Asians of goodwill and courage from repeating with Nehru: Confederation remains our ultimate goal.
Dabur India, which came under pressure from multiple sides for its Karva Chauth campaign, has withdrawn the advertisement from all social media platforms, the company announced on Twitter on Monday.

The campaign, meant to advertise Dabur's fairness bleach brand Fem, showed a same-sex couple observing Karva Chauth, a practice followed by women in certain parts of the country wherein they undertake a fast from sunrise to moonrise for their spouse's health and long life.

While a section of netizens slammed Dabur for promoting what they believed to be a 'regressive' and 'patriarchal practice', another section, including Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra, threatened legal action over the depiction of the celebration of a Hindu ritual by lesbians.

Also Read | Same-sex couple in Karwa Chauth ad draws mixed reactions

I consider this a serious matter. More so because such advertisements and clippings are made on the rituals of Hindu festivals only. They (the advertisement) showed lesbians celebrating Karva Chauth and seeing each other through a sieve. In future, they will show two men taking 'feras' (marrying each other according to Hindu rituals). This is objectionable, Mishra told reporters on Monday.

The state home minister had directed the DGP (Director General of Police) to ask the company to withdraw this advertisement. "And if it fails to do so, take legal steps after examining the advertisement," he added.

Also Read | FabIndia withdraws advertisement after social media row

The consumer goods maker initially backed its campaign, stating that it stood for "diversity, inclusion and equality." "We understand that not everyone will agree with our stance, and we respect their right to hold a different point of view," the statement read.

Later in the day, it announced that it had withdrawn its campaign from all its social media handles and issued an unconditional apology for "unintentionally hurting people's sentiments."

Fem's Karwachauth campaign has been withdrawn from all social media handles and we unconditionally apologise for unintentionally hurting peoples sentiments. pic.twitter.com/hDEfbvkm45  Dabur India Ltd (@DaburIndia) October 25, 2021

Attacks on corporate houses on such progressive commercials are on the rise in recent times.

A week earlier, ethnic and traditional apparel maker FabIndia removed a promotional capsule about its new festive line after backlash from right-wing groups on social media platforms.

Prior to that, Tata Group's jewellery brand Tanishq was forced to withdraw an advertisement that showed an interfaith couple at a baby shower organised for the Hindu bride by her Muslim in-laws. It withdrew the advertisement after trolling soon spread to physical threats to company employees and stores.

Clothing brand Manyavar too was at the receiving end when its advertisement featuring Bollywood actor Alia Bhatt in wedding attire, appeared to question an old tradition.

(With inputs from PTI)

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In March, as claims about the dangers and ineffectiveness of coronavirus vaccines spun across social media and undermined attempts to stop the spread of the virus, some Facebook employees thought they had found a way to help.

By subtly altering how posts about vaccines are ranked in people's newsfeeds, researchers at the company realized they could curtail the misleading information individuals saw about Covid-19 vaccines and offer users posts from legitimate sources like the World Health Organization.

Given these results, I'm assuming we're hoping to launch ASAP, one Facebook employee wrote in March, responding to the internal memo about the study.

Also Read | Facebook, YouTube take down Bolsonaro video over false Covid-19 vaccine claim

Instead, Facebook shelved some suggestions from the study. Other changes weren't made until April.

When another Facebook researcher suggested disabling comments on vaccine posts in March until the platform could do a better job of tackling anti-vaccine messages lurking in them, that proposal was ignored.

Critics say Facebook was slow to act because it worried it might impact the company's profits.

Why would you not remove comments? Because engagement is the only thing that matters, said Imran Ahmed, the CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, an internet watchdog group. It drives attention and attention equals eyeballs and eyeballs equal ad revenue.

Also Read | 'Bored' by questions on Covid-19 deaths, says Bolsonaro

In an emailed statement, Facebook said it has made considerable progress this year with downgrading vaccine misinformation in users' feeds.

Facebook's internal discussions were revealed in disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugen's legal counsel. The redacted versions received by Congress were obtained by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press.

The trove of documents shows that in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Facebook carefully investigated how its platforms spread misinformation about life-saving vaccines. They also reveal rank-and-file employees regularly suggested solutions for countering anti-vaccine misinformation on the site, to no avail. The Wall Street Journal reported on some of Facebook's efforts to deal with antivaccine comments last month.

Also Read | Facebook whistleblower makes case for social media curbs to UK parliament

The inaction raises questions about whether Facebook prioritized controversy and division over the health of its users.

These people are selling fear and outrage, said Roger McNamee, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist and early investor in Facebook who is now a vocal critic. It is not a fluke. It is a business model.

Typically, Facebook ranks posts by engagement  the total number of likes, dislikes, comments and reshares. That ranking scheme may work well for innocuous subjects like recipes, dog photos or the latest viral singalong. But Facebook's own documents show that when it comes to divisive, contentious issues like vaccines, engagement-based ranking only emphasizes polarization, disagreement and doubt.

To study ways to reduce vaccine misinformation, Facebook researchers changed how posts are ranked for more than 6,000 users in the US, Mexico, Brazil and the Philippines. Instead of seeing posts about vaccines that were chosen based on their engagement, these users saw posts selected for their trustworthiness.

Also read: Embattled Facebook's quarterly profit climbs to over $9 billion

The results were striking: a nearly 12% decrease in content that made claims debunked by fact-checkers and an 8% increase in content from authoritative public health organizations such as the WHO or US Centers for Disease Control.

Employees at the company reacted with exuberance, according to internal exchanges.

Is there any reason we wouldn't do this? one Facebook employee wrote in response.

Facebook said it did implement many of the study's findings  but not for another month, a delay that came at a pivotal stage of the global vaccine rollout.

In a statement, company spokeswoman Dani Lever said the internal documents don't represent the considerable progress we have made since that time in promoting reliable information about Covid-19 and expanding our policies to remove more harmful Covid and vaccine misinformation.

Also read: Facebook will fuel further unrest, whistleblower says

The company also said it took time to consider and implement the changes.

Yet the need to act urgently couldn't have been clearer: At that time, states across the US were rolling out vaccines to their most vulnerable  the elderly and sick. And public health officials were worried. Only 10% of the population had received their first dose of a Covid-19 vaccine. And a third of Americans were thinking about skipping the shot entirely, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Despite this, Facebook employees acknowledged they had no idea just how bad anti-vaccine sentiment was in the comments sections on Facebook posts. But company research in February found that as much as 60% of the comments on vaccine posts were anti-vaccine or vaccine reluctant.

Even worse, company employees admitted they didn't have a handle on catching those comments, or a policy in place to take them down.

Our ability to detect (vaccine hesitancy) in comments is bad in English  and basically non-existent elsewhere, another internal memo posted on March 2 said.

Los Angeles resident Derek Beres, an author and fitness instructor, sees anti-vaccine content thrive in the comments every time he promotes immunizations on his accounts on Instagram, which is owned by Facebook. Last year, Beres began hosting a podcast after noticing conspiracy theories about Covid-19 and vaccines were swirling on the social media feeds of health and wellness influencers.

Earlier this year, when Beres posted a picture of himself receiving the Covid-19 shot, some on social media told him he would likely drop dead in six months' time.

The comments section is a dumpster fire for so many people, Beres said.

Some Facebook employees suggested disabling all commenting on vaccine posts while the company worked on a solution.

Very interested in your proposal to remove ALL in-line comments for vaccine posts as a stopgap solution until we can sufficiently detect vaccine hesitancy in comments to refine our removal, one Facebook employee wrote on March 2.

The suggestion went nowhere.

Instead, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on March 15 that the company would start labelling posts about vaccines that described them as safe.

The move allowed Facebook to continue to get high engagement  and ultimately profit  off anti-vaccine comments, said Ahmed of the Center for Countering Digital Hate.

Facebook has taken decisions which have led to people receiving misinformation which caused them to die, Ahmed said. At this point, there should be a murder investigation.

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Billionaire Jeff Bezos-owned Blue Origin on Monday unveiled plans to develop a commercial space station called "Orbital Reef" with Boeing, aiming to launch the spacecraft in the second half of this decade.

The venture will be built in partnership with Sierra Space, the spaceflight wing of defense contractor Sierra Nevada Corp, and will be backed by Redwire Space, Genesis Engineering Solutions and Arizona State University.

Orbital Reef will be operated as a "mixed use business park", and plans to provide the infrastructure needed to scale economic activity and open new markets in space, Blue Origin and Sierra Space said.

"Seasoned space agencies, high-tech consortia, sovereign nations without space programs, media and travel companies, funded entrepreneurs and sponsored inventors, and future-minded investors all have a place on Orbital Reef," the companies said in a statement.

Sierra in April announced plans to offer the first free-flying commercial space station.

In July, Blue Origin had a successful debut space tourism flight, with Bezos and three others aboard. Earlier this month, 90-year-old US actor William Shatner - Captain James Kirk of Star Trek fame - became the oldest person in space aboard a rocketship flown by Blue Origin.
A "bomb cyclone" brought floods and landslides to drought-hit California as forest fire-scarred landscapes were unable to soak up record-breaking rains.

Severe thunderstorms deluged the northern part of the state, with strong winds pummeling the area, toppling powerlines and trees and leaving at least two people dead.

The cyclone roared in from the Pacific Ocean and struck San Francisco and Oakland, as well as the states of Oregon and Washington, further north, on Sunday.

It also lashed British Columbia, Canada's western-most province, leaving thousands without power.

Two people were killed when a tree fell on their vehicle near Seattle.

California's state capital, Sacramento, which saw no rain at all in the six months to September, was deluged with 14 centimetres (five and a half inches), beating a record that had stood since 1880.

The rains inundated towns, leaving some streets waist-deep in water, photographs showed.

In Ross, a small city in the northern part of the state, rescue crews were scrambling to remove trees blown down by the winds.

In nearby San Rafael, streets were completely flooded, with water rising above the height of vehicle tires, while further south in Marin City, crews were working to redirect water into drains.

Since the storms began Sunday night, nearly 4,00,000 people have been left without power because of the high winds, utility PG&E said.

Meteorologists say the desiccated landscape of the US west finds it difficult to absorb heavy rains, and water just washes destructively off the surface.

That problem is exacerbated by the huge forest fires that have torn through the region, burning thousands of square kilometres (miles).

The "burn scars" these blazes leave behind are particularly vulnerable to flash flooding, having no vegetation left to soak up the rains.

A years-long drought in the western United States has left whole swathes of the countryside vulnerable to fires that now burn hotter and longer.

Scientists say global warming caused by the burning of fossil fuels has worsened this drought.

It also increases extreme weather events in all their forms.

A "bomb cyclone" forms when air pressure drops abruptly as the storm gathers strength.

The phenomenon sucked moisture from the Pacific and created an "atmospheric river," a vapour cloud that can unleash heavy precipitation, AccuWeather meteorologist Jon Porter said.

The powerful storm continued to move through the state on Monday, with several cities recording persistent rainfall.

The storm has been good news for some, with a heavy dumping of snow in the Sierra Nevada mountain range allowing ski resorts to open earlier than usual.
British naturalist David Attenborough warned world leaders on Tuesday it would be too late to tackle climate change if a UN climate summit in Scotland does not succeed, and said richer nations had a moral responsibility to act.

Britain has cast the United Nations COP26 climate conference which begins in Glasgow on October 31 as the last big chance to slow rising temperatures, and hopes to persuade leaders to adopt tougher climate targets.

Attenborough, 95, told the BBC it would be "really catastrophic" if richer nations failed to support poorer ones, and time was running out.

Read more: Climate migration predicted to rise in India as extreme weather worsens

"Every day that goes by in which we don't do something about it is a day wasted," he said. "If we don't act now, it'll be too late."

The UN said on Monday greenhouse gas concentrations had hit a record last year and the world was "way off track" in capping rising temperatures.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said it was "touch and go" as to whether COP26 would succeed in securing the requirements needed to limit the rise in the average global temperature to 1.5 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Attenborough said leading nations had a duty to help poorer countries because industrialisation had been one of the major factors in driving climate change. He warned that whole parts of Africa would become unliveable.

Raging fires in Australia and the United States were still being dismissed by some as one-off incidents, he said, even though extreme weather events had shown climate scientists were correct to have been warning about rising temperatures in the last 20 years.

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Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan signed off on a new head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) spy agency, the military said on Tuesday, after weeks of delay as regional players try to stabilise the security and economy of neighbouring Afghanistan.

Lieutenant General Nadeem Anjum was approved as ISI head after a final consultation between army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa and Khan.

The announcement followed weeks of speculation that the delay signified a rift between civil and military powers, speculation that officials denied.

The head of the ISI is one of the most important posts in Pakistan, at the intersection of domestic politics, the war on militancy and Pakistan's foreign relations.

The appointment comes as Afghanistan faces the risk of economic collapse and a potential resurgence in militancy by groups such as Islamic State after the Taliban took control in August.

Pakistan authorities, including the ISI, have long been accused of having links with senior Taliban members and offering them safe haven, charges vehemently denied by Islamabad.

In recent months, the current ISI chief has made two known trips to Kabul to meet Taliban officials, one of them this month with the country's foreign minister.

Anjum's appointment signals a possible smoothing of relations with the military, whose chief had pushed for the shuffle in key personnel.

Anjum, a three-star general with previous postings in Punjab and the southwestern province of Balochistan, begins the new job on Nov. 20, according to a military statement.

The military had previously said that outgoing ISI chief Faiz Hameed would be posted to the northwestern city of Peshawar, not far from the Afghan border, as corps commander.

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Americans across the country are observing October as the Hindu Heritage Month, with more that 20 of the 50 states and over 40 cities issuing proclamations about it, community leaders said Monday.

The first ever initiative of Hindu groups in the country has been welcomed by elected representatives who have issued proclamations and notifications to acknowledge the contributions of this minority community in the US.

Hindus worldwide celebrate Navratri, Dussehra, Durga Puja, and Diwali around October. Hence, this month was considered by several US-based Hindu organisations to celebrate as the Hindu Heritage Month, a media release said.

From Yoga to food, festivities to charity, dances to music, and non-violence to profound philosophy, a Hindu way has touched all walks of life in the US. The Hindu community is celebrating this month in any and all of these forms that uniquely identify with the Hindu community, it said.

Among the states that have issued these notifications are Texas, Ohio, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Georgia, Florida, Minnesota, Virginia, Nevada, Mississippi, Delaware, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Maryland, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Wisconsin, Missouri, Indiana and Michigan.

Troy in Michigan, Irvine in Californiam Portland in Oregon and Irving and Houston in Texas are some of the cities to recognise October as the Hindu Heritage Month. For the American leaders across the nation, the contribution of the ancient Hindu way and, more importantly, the active role of Hindus in American society was worth appreciation and praise, the release said.

While US Congressman Troy Balderson acknowledged the resilience of the Hindu American community in his letter of recognition, Congressman Raja Krishnamurthy termed Hindusim a "uniquely pluralistic religion".

Commonwealth of Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker said the vibrant Hindu community contributed tremendously in "the vitality of the Commonwealth..."

In addition to acknowledging Diwali and the contribution of Hindus, the City of Troy, Michigan, also recognised the charity carried out by the community during the festival.

A Hindu leader, Bindu Patel, thanked the City of Irving, for appreciating the community and supporting Hindu Heritage Month activities. She said the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh (HSS) is working with the local interfaith community and celebrating Diwali as "Sewa Diwali  food drive" with a spirit of giving back to the society.

HSS volunteer Rajender Sandadi from Troy, Michigan, accepted the proclamation during a City Hall meeting with the community's representatives. He thanked the city for inclusiveness in action and for appreciating the contribution of the Hindu society.

"This year, Diwali falls in the first week of November. Hence, it is expected that the Hindu Heritage Month will naturally get extended by a few more weeks in its celebrations and spirit of giving," the release said.

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US President Joe Biden will take part in a virtual summit with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday, the first time in four years Washington will engage at the top level with a bloc it sees as key to its strategy of pushing back against China.

The US embassy in Brunei told Reuters Biden will lead the US delegation for the ASEAN-United States summit, part of a series of ASEAN leaders' meetings this week.

The White House said Biden would discuss the "enduring" US commitment to ASEAN's central role in regional affairs and new initiatives to strengthen the US strategic partnership with the bloc, "as we work together to end the Covid-19 pandemic, address the climate crisis, promote economic growth, and address a range of other regional challenges and opportunities."

Also read: US to lift all travel restrictions for incoming foreign nationals from November 8

The United States has not joined the meetings at the presidential level since Biden's predecessor, Donald Trump, attended an ASEAN-US meeting in Manila in 2017.

Analysts say Biden's meeting with the 10-nation bloc reflects his administration's efforts to engage allies and partners in a collective effort to push back against China.

US officials, however, have not made specific mention of China in the run-up to the meeting as they work to set up a virtual summit between Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping later this year.

They expect Biden to focus on collaboration on Covid-19 vaccine distribution, climate, supply chains and infrastructure.

He is also expected to assure ASEAN that a recent US focus on engagement with India, Japan and Australia in the so-called Quad grouping and a deal to supply Australia with nuclear-powered submarines are not intended to supplant ASEAN's central regional role.

Edgard Kagan, senior director for East Asia at the White House National Security Council, stressed last week that Washington does not see the Quad as "an Asian NATO" and that it was not intended to compete with ASEAN.

He said Washington had an interest in working with ASEAN to ensure supply-chain resilience, on climate, and to address "common challenges on maritime issues" - an apparent reference to China's broad claims in the disputed South China Sea.

"This will be Biden's first meeting with the leaders of ASEAN as president, so he will want to assure them that Southeast Asia matters to his administration," said Murray Hiebert, a Southeast Asia expert with Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies think tank.

Hiebert said ASEAN leaders would be anxious to hear of any US plans to step up provision of Covid-19 vaccines to the region, which has been hard hit by the pandemic, and how Washington plans to engage on trade, investment and infrastructure.

Also read: China continues to bully its neighbours: Pentagon

Biden has given no sign of any plan to return to a regional trade framework Trump withdrew from in 2017, and an Asian diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the lack of an economic element in US regional engagement was a major gap.

"The piece that is most important for the region, is the economic piece," the diplomat said. "Were kind of stuck in that the region says: Youve put in place a strategic sort of competitive structure with China, but this doesn't benefit the region at all. And, meanwhile, all of us have got economic relationships growing with China."

The ASEAN meetings will take place without Myanmar military leader Min Aung Hlaing, who overthrew a civilian government on February 1 -- a rare exclusion for a grouping usually known for non-interference.

Kagan called this a significant step but said more needed to be done to address the challenges Myanmar is facing.
Underlining that Afghanistan was at a critical stage of transforming from chaos to governance, China has urged the Taliban that they should make a clean break with terrorism, demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups, effectively protect the rights of women and children.

Continuing Chinas effective contacts with the Taliban, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with the acting Deputy Prime Minister of Talibans interim administration Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar in the Qatari capital of Doha on Monday.

Wang said Afghanistan stands at a critical stage of transforming from chaos to governance and is currently facing a historic opportunity to truly master its own destiny, achieve reconciliation and tolerance, and advance national reconstruction.

Also Read | Pakistan appoints new ISI chief after weeks of delay

The Chinese minister expressed hope that the Afghan Taliban will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction, and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.

Since the Taliban came to power, China has been asking it to make a clean break with all terrorist forces and form an open and inclusive government following moderate domestic and foreign policies.

This is the second time Wang met Baradar, whose prolonged absence from the limelight in Kabul sparked off an internal power struggle between moderates and hardliners in the Taliban.

Wang first met Baradar, who visited Chinas Tianjin city in July this year, ahead of the Talibans takeover of power in Kabul. Since then, Beijing in coordination with Pakistan and Russia kept close contact with the Afghan militant though it is yet to recognise its interim administration.

Also Read | Women protest world's 'silence' over crisis in Afghanistan

The three countries also kept the diplomatic missions open in Kabul. China also announced $31 million in humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan.

Wang said that Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties and overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the international community.

The Chinese official also urged the Taliban to adopt a friendly policy toward its neighbouring countries, and build a modern country that conforms to the wishes of the people as well as the trend of the times.

Wang emphasised that the "East Turkistan Islamic Movement" (ETIM), a Uygur militant group from Xinjiang not only posed a real threat to China's national security and territorial integrity, but also jeopardised the domestic stability and long-term stability in Afghanistan.

He hoped that the Afghan Taliban would make a clean break with the ETIM and other terrorist organisations, and take effective measures to resolutely crack down on them.

Also Read | How ethnic and religious divides in Afghanistan are contributing to violence against minorities

He also called on the US and the West as a whole to lift sanctions and urged all parties to engage with the Afghan Taliban in a rational and pragmatic manner to help Afghanistan embark on a path of healthy development.

For his part, Baradar briefed Wang on the current situation in Afghanistan, which, he said, is under control and improving, with the governments at all levels being gradually established and government decrees being carried out effectively.

The Afghan interim government is working hard to meet the needs of the people, and will learn from its historical experience to take a development path in line with its national conditions, said Baradar.

It has taken and will continue to take inclusive measures to expand the representation of the regime, he said, citing that most officials and technocrats of the former government have stayed in office, and more talents of all ethnic groups will be recruited to participate in the state government in the future.

Meanwhile, Baradar said that the Afghan Taliban is willing to strengthen the efforts to protect the rights and interests of women and children, and will not deprive them of the rights to education and work.

Also Read | How ethnic and religious divides in Afghanistan are contributing to violence against minorities

For now, women in medical institutions, airports and other places have resumed their work, and girls in primary and secondary schools in many provinces have returned to school, but they still face difficulties such as lack of facilities and funds, the Taliban official said.

Baradar expressed the hope that China and the international community will increase assistance to Afghanistan to help it overcome the humanitarian crisis and return to the right track of development.

He also expressed thanks to China, an important neighbour of Afghanistan, for its respect and friendliness shown to Afghanistan during the difficult times.

Pursuing a friendly policy toward China is the firm choice by the Afghan Taliban, which hopes to strengthen cooperation with China in various fields, he said.

The Afghan Taliban, which attaches great importance to China's security concerns, will resolutely honour its promise and never allow anyone or any force to use the Afghan territory to harm China, Baradar added.

During his stay in Doha, Wang will also meet Afghanistan's acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, the Xinhua report said.

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Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday agreed to further bolster their bilateral ties, including full realisation of the potential offered by the Phase-II of the Free Trade Agreement to overcome the economic headwinds.

The two leaders reviewed the bilateral ties and cooperation during a telephonic conversation Prime Minister Imran had with President Xi, the PM Office said in a statement.

Khan was appreciative of Chinas successful containment of the Covid-19 pandemic as well as the relief measures to developing countries, including the vaccine cooperation with Pakistan, it said.

Read more: Xi's not there? COP26 hopes dim on Chinese President's likely absence

Taking stock of the negative impact of Covid-19 on the global economy, the two leaders agreed on further strengthening bilateral economic and commercial ties, including full realisation of the potential offered by the Phase-II of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, to overcome the economic headwinds, it said.

The Prime Minister has lauded the successful, timely and high-quality implementation of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, and welcomed Chinese investments in the CPEC Special Economic Zones.

He also stressed that early start of work on the ML-1 railway project would complement Pakistans geo-economics vision for national and regional development.

The two leaders agreed to promote CPECs green development as a high-quality demonstration of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

The ambitious CPEC was launched in 2015 when President Xi visited Pakistan.

It aims to connect western China with the Gwadar seaport in southwestern Pakistan through a network of roads, railways and other projects of infrastructure and development.

While acknowledging China taking the lead role in combating climate change, Khan also briefed President XI on Pakistans wide-ranging measures undertaken for climate change mitigation and adaptation, including the Ten Billion Tree Tsunami initiative  a landmark project supported by the United Nations Environment Programme  which sets out to plant ten billion trees by 2023.

The discussion also veered towards Afghanistan. The two leaders called on the international community to provide immediate humanitarian and economic assistance as well as continued engagement required for rebuilding the war-torn nation.

The Prime Minister also stressed the need to continue with the momentum of high-level exchanges to further diversify All Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two countries.

Through the course of the conversation, Khan congratulated President Xi on the centenary of the Communist Party of China, the unprecedented victory in the Chinese peoples battle to eradicate poverty.

The two leaders also felicitated each other on the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and China, and reviewed the gamut of their bilateral strategic cooperative partnership.

Khan has extended his invitation to Xi to visit Pakistan at his early convenience.
Two people were killed Monday and four others were injured -- including a police officer -- when a gunman opened fire in a shopping mall in the US state of Idaho.

Police in Boise were called to the mall with reports "that at least one person was shot and down," the city's police chief Ryan Lee told reporters.

They exchanged fire with a man matching the description 911 callers had given, with one officer being hit.

A suspect was taken into custody and there is "no ongoing threat or danger to the community at large from this incident," Lee said.

"We really cannot at this time speak to any motivation behind it, or anything else that may impact the investigation," he said.

The New York Times reported the two-storey Boise Towne Square mall is made up of more than 150 stores and restaurants.

Mass shootings and other gun violence are huge problems in the United States, issues that gun control advocates say are fueled by the prevalence of firearms and relatively lax gun laws.
Former Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh will hold a briefing in Chandigarh on Wednesday (October 27) at 11 am, his media advisor said.

Speculations are that he will share details on his new political outfit.

Former Punjab CM @capt_amarinder will address a Press Conference in Chandigarh tomorrow (Wednesday, Oct 27) at 11am. The event will be telecast live on his Facebook Page. Do tune in. pic.twitter.com/3bxpT1oZaz  Raveen Thukral (@RT_Media_Capt) October 26, 2021

Singh had met BJP top brass in Delhi and held meetings with Amit Shah soon after quitting Congress, sparking talks of an alliance.

Last week, Singh announced that he would soon float his onw political party and said he was "hopeful of a seat arrangement with the BJP in 2022 Punjab Assembly polls if farmers' protest is resolved in farmers interest".

The Congress had, a few months ago, appointed Navjot Singh Sidhu as the Punjab Congress chief despite strong opposition from then CM Singh.

Amarinder Singh resigned as the Punjab chief minister last month amid a bitter power tussle with Sidhu, a political drama that led to a lot of back-and-forth volleys between the party and Captain. Charanjit Singh Channi replaced Amarinder Singh as chief minister.

(With agency inputs)

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In a political twist, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray will write to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on how the NCBs Mumbai unit was being run and Bollywood was being targeted.

Thackeray met state Home Minister Dilip Walse-Patil, and having discussed the issue, explored the possibilities of setting up an SIT.

NCP chief spokesperson and states minority affairs minister Nawab Malik said that Thackeray would be writing to Modi.

The chief minister expressed his concerns at how Hindi film industrys image is being maligned globally. After Hollywood, its the most important film industry, employs millions of people and contributes around 3-4% to the national GDP, Malik said.

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Sikkim was awarded the 'Most Film Friendly State' of the country at the 67th National Film Awards.

The award was received by the state's Information and Public Relations Minister Lok Nath Sharma at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi on Monday from Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu.

Sikkim was recognised for standing out as a new destination for shooting films in the country, officials in Gangtok said on Tuesday.

The recognition comes as a moment of pride for the state and shall greatly facilitate, setting the foundation for Sikkim to become a premier film destination, while also providing opportunities for the local filmmakers and artistes, they added.

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India ranks ninth in the list of top 10 countries for climate technology investment over the past five years and Indian climate tech firms received $1 billion in venture capital (VC) funding from 2016 to 2021, according to a new report released in London on Tuesday.

Five Years On: Global climate tech investment trends since the Paris Agreement, by London & Partners and Dealroom.Co, analysed the trends in the sector since the last United Nations Conference of Parties (COP) in Paris and ahead of the COP26 summit in Glasgow next week.

It found that venture capital investment into climate tech companies globally has skyrocketed since the Paris Agreement, with the US and China leading the global top 10 with $48 billion and $18.6 billion investment between 2016 and 2021 respectively. The UK comes in at No. 4 with $4.3 billion after Sweden at $5.8 billion.

Read more: Climate migration predicted to rise in India as extreme weather worsens

Countries around the world need to work together so that we can collectively change business practices and commit to net zero emissions, said Hemin Bharucha, Country Director India, London & Partners  Londons business growth agency.

The global tech industry plays a pivotal role in accelerating this global transformation and this is demonstrated in the rapid growth of VC investment into global climate tech companies. It is fantastic to see the UK and India among the top 10 countries for climate tech investment globally, with London leading the way in Europe for the number of climate tech companies and dedicated VC funds, he said.

The global top 10 is completed by France at No. 5 ($3.7bn), Germany at No. 6 ($2.7bn), Canada at No. 7 ($1.4bn), the Netherlands at No. 8 ($1.3bn) and Singapore tenth ($700m), after India.

Overall, global climate tech VC investment soared from $6.6 billion in 2016 to $32.3 billion in 2021, an increase in funding by almost five times.

According to the report, which analyses technology companies working to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions or addressing the impacts of climate change, 2021 investment levels have already exceeded the whole of 2020 for global climate tech investment, demonstrating the importance of the global tech industry in the fight against climate change.

Europe is found to be the fastest-growing region globally for climate tech, with European VC investment into climate tech firms seven times higher this year than in 2016 (up from $1.1 bn to $8bn).

In Europe, London is described as one of the worlds most advanced ecosystems for climate tech, with its start-ups raising $3.3 billion since 2016, accounting for 16 per cent of Europes total. London is also home to 416 climate tech companies, the biggest cluster in Europe.

The UK is well on its way to becoming a climate tech powerhouse thanks to its combination of world-leading research, thriving ecosystem and creative entrepreneurs that are using technology to solve the most pressing issue in our lifetime, said Remus Brett, Partner at VC firm LocalGlobe.

Its no wonder then that investors across Europe and the world are taking note of the startups and scaleups being created in London and the rest of the country. With sustained investment and the right support, these companies will have the tools they need to successfully reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight the climate crisis, he said.

Growth in climate tech is being driven by significant investment into transportation and energy solutions, accounting for a combined total of 78 per cent of global climate tech investment in 2021. A similar trend is reflected in London, with 60 per cent of VC investment into climate tech going into energy companies, while enterprise software, circular economy and food start-ups are also attracting an increasing share of investment.

London ranks second globally behind the San Francisco Bay Area for number of funding rounds raised by climate tech start-ups, demonstrating an active early-stage ecosystem in London, according to London & Partners.

The citys promotional agency added that climate tech start-ups in London also have access to deep pools of dedicated climate tech capital, with the city home to 18 dedicated climate tech VC firms, more than anywhere else in Europe.
The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Uttar Pradesh government to file a separate report on investigation in the second FIR in October 3 Lakhimpur Kheri violence in which four persons, including a journalist, were killed, immediately after mowing down of four farmers, protesting against the agri reforms laws.

Taking up a PIL, a bench presided over by Chief Justice N V Ramana also ordered protection of witnesses in the first FIR and expeditious recording of their statements.

Senior advocate Arun Bhardwaj, representing Ruby Devi, widow of Shyam Sundar, submitted before the bench that her husband's killers were roaming free and no action had been taken against them.

There are three accused who are allegedly responsible for her husband's death and the police have not taken any action against them, he said

"The killers are roaming free and threatening us," he said.

Senior advocate, Harshvir Pratap Sharma, appearing for the family of the journalist Raman Kashyap also asked the court to direct the police to apprehend the accused involved.

The bench asked senior advocate Harish Salve, appearing for the Uttar Pradesh government to file separate replies.

Salve, for his part, said Shyam Sundar was an accused and got killed in the incident that following the first offence relating to mowing down of farmers.

He said the police were investigating the second case in which the journalist was also killed.

The court fixed the matter for further hearing on November 8.

During the hearing, the bench, also comprising Justices Surya Kant and Hima Kohli, expressed surprise that out of a gathering of 4,000-5,000 people, only 23 people are eyewitnesses to the incident.

Reading out a fresh status report, Salve said that out of 68, thirty witnesses have recorded their statements under Section 164 Criminal Procedure Code. Of these, 23 are eyewitnesses.

The bench wondered how in a case where there were hundreds of farmers in a rally, only 23 people were there as eyewitnesses.

Salve said digital evidence was being examined in the matter.

It was on the basis of eyewitnesses' statements that 16 accused have been identified, he said.

As many as eight people, including four farmers, were killed on October 3, when a car allegedly ferrying the Union Minister Ajay Mishra's son ran over a group of protesters, gathered to oppose a programme attended by Uttar Pradesh's deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya in Lakhimpur Kheri. The minister's son, Ashish Mishra was subsequently arrested in the case after the top court took up the letter petition filed by advocate Shiv Kumar Tripathi and another person and pulled up the Uttar Pradesh government over the delay.

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The former attorney general of India, Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for Shah Rukh Khans sons son Aryan in the drugs seizure case, said that the junior Khan was not a customer on the Goa-bound cruise from where the NCB caught him following a raid and that he was only invited as a guest. The Bombay High Court will hear the case again tomorrow. Meanwhile, Maharashtra minister Nawab Malik in a press conference made several revelations about the NCB and Sameer Wankhede, alleging that he was ordered by Rakesh Asthana to lodge fake cases and extract money from Bollywood stars.
The Congress on Tuesday targeted the Trinamool Congress for its foray into Goa, saying elections should not become "tourism" and parties need to introspect whether they are strengthening the BJP or providing it "cover fire" in the fight against the "corrupt" government in the state.

Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the Congress is determined to fight for a "transparent" government in the state, which he said is besieged by corruption, while demanding the immediate sacking of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant who is facing fresh allegations from former Goa Governor Satyapal Malik.

Following its victory in West Bengal, Trinamool Congress is attempting to expand its national imprint and has set its eye on Goa hoping to win it or at least become the biggest Opposition party. It has even poached one of the senior leaders Luizhino Faleiro, a former Chief Minister.

Read more: Ex-Guv Malik's allegation against BJP boosts TMC in Goa

Surjewala was asked how the Congress is going to deal with Opposition parties entering the Goa electoral scene that could have an impact on its prospects as well as on Opposition unity. Trinamool has charged the Congress that it has not done anything after a meeting called by Sonia Gandhi on August 20 and so it took an initiative on its own.

He said every party has the right to fight elections but sought to corner the Trinamool saying it fought the 2017 Goa Assembly elections but left the state after it failed to win any seat. "Elections are not tourism. Fight one election and leave. Then reappear after five years (when the polls are near). While I respect, I recognise the right to fight the election independently, for that is the beauty of the democratic polity, they need to understand what they are fighting," he said.

"Parties also need to introspect and I am saying this with great respect to their rights to democratically fight elections. Are they strengthening the fight against the BJP or are they providing cover fire for the BJP?" Surjewala told a press conference.

He said he would leave that question to them to decide. But, he said, the Congress will "determinedly, unitedly and decisively" fight against the "corrupt architecture created by the BJP" in Goa.

Surjewala said Congress, its president Sonia Gandhi and former chief Rahul Gandhi have fought the BJP and the Narendra Modi government single-handedly, "without bowing down, without getting cowed down, without even retracting a step, at the cost of many personal sacrifices, despite being persecuted by the ruling dispensation.

When other Opposition parties were targeted by the Modi government, he said the Congress has always supported them irrespective of whether they were on opposite sides.

"Opposition parties whenever they get ED notices, whenever their leaders are summoned to the ED offices or CBI offices unjustifiably, I agree, that is also part of a persecution plan. Many times they retract and many times blatantly or patently some of them have compromised. I don't blame them. Everybody necessarily may not have the courage to stand for truth, come what may. We empathise with those smaller parties. We will support those smaller parties even when they oppose us. Because it is our duty to stand with everybody who is being wrongly persecuted," he said.

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Amid a political slugfest over the cruise drugs seizure case of the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), the Shiv Sena on Tuesday said the BJP acts like it owns central investigation agencies, but it should not forget that in a democracy owners do change.

An editorial in the Sena mouthpiece Saamana said the allegations of Rs 25 crore demand in the drugs case, in which Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan is an accused, are just the tip of the iceberg.

"The owners and their employees should be beware of the consequences, it said. The question is not about actor Shah Rukh Khan or his son, but it is about the character and honesty of the central investigation agencies. Who is going to find out where Kiran Gosavi, one of the (NCB's) witness in the case, is hiding? it said.

Gosavi, who is facing cheating allegations in Pune, was untraceable after his photos and videos with Aryan Khan went viral on social media following the NCB's raid on the cruise ship off the Mumbai coast earlier this month. On Monday, Gosavi refuted the extortion claims made by his aide and another witness in the case, Prabhakar Sail, and said he will surrender shortly before the Lucknow police.

Also Read | Nawab Malik shares letter alleging fraud within NCB in fresh salvo against Sameer Wankhede

The NCB has ordered a vigilance inquiry into the claims made by Sail about of an extortion bid of Rs 25 crore by some agency officials, including its Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede, and others for letting off Aryan Khan.

The three ruling parties in Maharashtra - Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress- have repeatedly claimed that central agencies were being used to target the opposition parties. The editorial in 'Saamana' said, "The BJP acts like it owns the central investigation agencies. It should not forget that in a democracy owners do change. There are proofs for it in history. The party (BJP) should not forget that it is like any other political party. It should also remember that political power comes and goes."

"The BJP was once a party of some principles, sacrifice and nationalism, but we cannot expect the same thing from it in its current form. Even the veterans in the BJP are uncomfortable, the Sena claimed. It said people have been wondering about the claim of Rs 25 crore demand made in the Aryan Khan case for a few grams of drugs.

"How much bribe amount was sought to settle the case of 3,500 kg heroin found at the Adani group-controlled Mundra port in Gujarat? Nobody knew when that case was closed, but the Aryan Khan case is still going on, the Marathi daily said.

It said the law related to drugs use says consumers of such substances should be rehabilitated. They should be punished for their acts, but ensure they do not fall into the same trap again and again. But, in reality, it is not happening, the Sena said.

The present NCB officials were also involved in probing a drugs case related to the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput case where a transaction of Rs 4,000 was made from a bank account of actor Rhea Chakraborty, it said. It is not the duty of the NCB to probe a case of Rs 4,000, the editorial said. There is a similar department of the Maharashtra police which deals with drugs cases, but never goes for publicity, it said.

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A general consensus appeared to have emerged in the CPI(M) over continuing its cooperation with the Congress on tackling the "increasing danger" of the BJP, with its central committee clearing an outline of the political resolution for its triennial conference.

The party's Polit Bureau will now prepare a text on the basis of the outline in a meeting next month to be presented in the Central Committee in January for clearance of the draft political resolution, which will get its final nod in the Party Congress in Kannur next April.

The three-day Central Committee meeting, which ended on Sunday, cleared the outline without any deviation from the line presented by the Polit Bureau though some leaders expressed their reservation over continuing understanding with the Congress.

The issue of relationship with the Congress had been a thorny issue for the CPI(M) and it had reached a crescendo at the 2018 conference where present General Secretary Sitaram Yechury managed to push the political line of entering into understanding with all secular parties, including Congress, to fight the BJP while making it clear that there should not be any political alliance with the Congress.

There was speculation that the Central Committee meeting would be stormy, especially after Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan wrote in Malayalam party weekly 'Chinta' about the Congress losing its pole position in several states and that the Sonia Gandhi-led party should not be the core of the Opposition efforts against the BJP.

However, sources said, even the Kerala unit was a "mixed bag", as some of them, including leaders from the minority communities, argued in favour of Yechury's line that the situation has worsened after the BJP's victory in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls and keeping the Congress away was not a prudent line.

Some Kerala leaders argued that the CPI(M)'s "courageous" position of working with Congress has earned benefits in the state with minority community voters expressing their confidence in the party in the last Assembly elections. They argued that these voters found CPI(M) was "sincere" in its fight against the BJP while the minority communities did vote for Congress in other states.

Also read: CPI(M) Central Committee meets to discuss resolution for Party Congress

The latest round of the Central Committee meeting is in contrast to the deliberations prior to the 2018 conference when a group led by former General Secretary Prakash Karat, which included the state units of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana among others, were against cooperating with the Congress.

The run-up to the triennial conference witnessed stormy scenes with Yechury not being able to push his line as the Central Committee dominated by the Karat faction managed to clear their draft resolution. Several meetings to thrash a compromise met in failure and when the draft was presented before the Party Congress, Yechury had the last laugh.

With a majority of the delegates from across the country in support, Yechury managed to amend the resolution after the Karat faction threw in the towel. A meeting of the Central Committee during the Party Congress decided to bring an amendment to the draft it prepared earlier and the impasse was passed.

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The Supreme Court will pass orders on Wednesday on a plea to probe the allegations of snooping on citizens, particularly Opposition leaders, journalists, activists through Isreal's Pegasus spyware.

A three-judge bench presided over by Chief Justice N V Ramana will pronounce the judgement on October 27, according to the cause list available on the Supreme Court's website.

The court had on September 13 reserved its order on interim directions to be issued on a batch of petitions for an independent probe into the use of the spyware. It had indicated to form a technical experts committee to examine the matter.

The Centre, for its part, had also proposed to constitute an expert panel, comprising of independent members, to examine the allegations. It also assured to disclose details before the experts' panel.

However, the government had declined to file a detailed affidavit, saying the use or non-use of a particular software can't be debated in such a manner since it involved questions of national security and might alert potential terrorist or terror organisations to develop counter-measures.

The court, for its part, said it did not want any details which compromised with the national security but wanted to know if any inquiry had been ordered by the government.

On July 18, an international investigative consortium reported that many Indian ministers, politicians, activists, businessmen and journalists were among the 50,000 numbers that were potentially targeted by the Israeli company NSO Groups phone hacking software.

A batch of petitions including those by advocate M L Sharma, CPI(M) MP John Brittas, N Ram, former IIM professor Jagdeep Chokkar, Narendra Mishra, Paranjoy Guha Thakurta, Rupesh Kumar Singh, S N M Abdi and Editors Guild of India were filed for an independent probe into the matter.

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A police case was registered against Congress MP from Kerala K Muraleedharan on the basis of Thiruvananthapuram city mayor Arya Rajendran's petition accusing the MP of making insulting remark.

Rajendran, who was in the limelight last year for being the youngest woman mayor in the country, lodged the petition against Muraleedharan at Museum police station in the city.

The Congress MP said at a protest meeting in front of the city corporation office on Monday that even as the mayor was "looking beautiful, what comes out of her mouth was more terrible than the 'Kodungallur Bharani songs'".

The Kodungallur Bharani songs are folk songs mixed with abusive words sung at the famous Devi temple in Kodungallur in Thrissur district during the famous Meena Bharani festival there. Such songs are sung by thousands of oracles assemble at the temple as part of a ritual on the occasion.

Based on the mayor's petition, the Museum police registered a case under IPC sections 354A (Sexual harassment and punishment for sexual harassment) and 509 (Word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman).

Muraleedharan later stated that he was tendering an apology if his remarks had hurt the mayor personally.

"I regret if my remarks have caused mental distress to anyone personally. I do not hesitate to say it. I do not want any of my statements to hurt anyone personally", the Vatakara MP said in a Facebook post.

Both the CPI(M) and its youth outfit DYFI have flayed Muraleedharan for his remarks against Rajendran. She became the Mayor of Thiruvananthapuram at the age of 21 after the CPI(M)-led LDF swept the local body polls held last year.

(With inputs from PTI)

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Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi has asked for details about the functioning of certain departments and welfare schemes being implemented by them from the state government, triggering a political controversy and putting the ruling DMK in a spot.

Chief Secretary V Irai Anbu has written to secretaries of a few departments asking them to prepare powerpoint presentations to be presented before the Governor. The move by Ravi, who was transferred to Tamil Nadu from Nagaland in September, comes a month after he was sworn in as the Governor.

The Chief Secretary wrote the letter to department secretaries on October 18, days after Chief Minister M K Stalin met Ravi on the issue of seeking exemption from NEET for students from the state.

Read more: Sasikala to be re-inducted to AIADMK? Here's what Panneerselvam has to say

I am to request you to be prepared to appraise the Honble Governor about your departments ongoing welfare schemes of both state and the Union Government. A powerpoint presentation may also be prepared for the above-said purpose, Irai Anbu wrote to the secretaries.

The Governors request and the government responding in the positive has put the ruling DMK in an embarrassing situation due to its long-stated position on interference by Governor in the functioning of an elected government. In 2017, when the then Governor Banwarilal Purohit held review meetings with officials during his visit to districts, the DMK had termed it as clear interference in the functioning of the government and protested the move.

While the DMK saw nothing wrong in the Governors directive, its ally, Congress, came out against his calling for a presentation on the functioning of certain departments and termed it as a clear overreach of the powers of the Governor. DMK spokesperson T K S Elangovan said the Governors move cannot be termed as overreach and refused to view the development through the prism of politics.

As his letter led to a political uproar, Irai Anbu released a statement on Tuesday downplaying the Governor asking for details. Since the new Governor has taken charge, I sent a letter to secretaries asking them to keep ready details about welfare programmes. This is a routine development and politicizing this is not right. Those who understand the functioning of the government know this is normal, he said.

Congress was also the first party to take objection to Ravis appointment as Tamil Nadu Governor citing his track record of his tenure in Nagaland.

The news that the Governor has asked for details of welfare schemes is shocking. The Governor has no rights under the Constitution to monitor the functioning of the state government or its departments. A Governor is appointed by the President of India and not elected by the people, TNCC chief K S Alagiri said in a strongly-worded statement.

Alagiri reminded the governor that the responsibility and duty of implementing schemes rest with the Chief Minister who has been elected by the people through MLAs.

Under the circumstances, the Governors move is unconstitutional and has ulterior motivesThe governor should extend his cooperation to Chief Minister M K Stalin who is delivering governance in the past six months instead of interfering in administration, Alagiri said and wondered whether the Governor was trying to help BJP grow in Tamil Nadu.

Senior Congress leader and Tamil Nadu Minorities Commission Chairman S Peter Alphonse also took strong exception to Governor Ravis directive.

The Governor should function within the powers accorded to him under the Constitution. Chief Minister M K Stalin had earlier opposed review meetings by the then Governor Purohit. He will certainly resist the pressure, Alphonse said.
The opposition Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) in Kerala has demanded a judicial probe into the alleged irregularities in making a child free for adoption, even as state woman and child development minister Veena George maintained that there were no irregularities in the procedures.

The state Assembly witnessed noisy scenes over the issue on Tuesday and opposition leader V D Satheesan even accused that the ruling left-front was party to an 'honour crime'. The opposition staged a walkout after Speaker M B Rajesh denied permission to an adjournment motion on the matter.

Also Read | Kerala government's priority is to set up special courts to try crimes against women: CM Vijayan

The issue pertained to the allegation of 22-year-old Anupama Chandran of Thiruvananthapuram that her newborn was forcefully taken away by her father, who is a CPM local leader, mother and some relatives, and abandoned at the (KSCCW) in 2020 October. The child was born out of an unwedded relationship with a married man and hence the family allegedly abandoned the child.

Replying to the adjournment motion notice given by UDF MLA K K Rema, minister George said that the adoption procedures so far were followed as per norms only and if the biological mother was willing to take care of the child the government would support it.

Also Read | Kerala woman moves court over 'forced adoption', seeks to get her child back

The opposition alleged that the Kerala State Council for Child Welfare (KSCCW) and the police were part of a heinous crime of separating a newborn from its mother.

A family court in Kerala on Monday stalled the adoption procedures and sought a police inquiry report and also suggested a DNA test.

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Lucknow witnessed high drama around midnight on Monday when Kiran Gosavi, the private detective from Mumbai who made headlines with his selfie with Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan after his arrest by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), announced that he would surrender at Mandiaon police station 'any moment.'

Kiran Gosavi, the Narcotics Control Bureau's 'independent witness' in the cruise ship drugs case, against whom a lookout notice was issued, said he wanted to surrender before the Uttar Pradesh police as he felt 'threatened' in Maharashtra.

Read more: Nawab Malik says Sameer Wankhede forged caste certificate, NCB official denies

But the expected drama ended in anti-climax when Gosavi failed to turn up and Lucknow police commissioner DK Thakur said that Gosavi cannot surrender in Lucknow 'because the Lucknow police station does not have the jurisdiction to take any action against him'.

An unverified audio clip circulated by sources close to Gosavi, indicated the policemen at a local station in Lucknow unceremoniously turned him down.

The clip was of a phone call where a man, purportedly Gosavi, was heard asking if it was the Madiaon police chowki. After confirming, he ssif "I want to come there. I am Kiran Gosavi. I want to surrender here.

"Why do you want to come here?" the policeman asked according to this unverified audio clip.

"This is the nearest police station for me at the moment," Gosavi said.

Once the policeman confirmed that Gosavi wanted to surrender, he reportedly said, "No, you can't surrender here. Try somewhere else."

As the audio clip went viral, huge crowds, mainly media, started collecting at the Mandiaon police station and security was beefed up.

A number of officers were seen waiting outside the building.

Also read: NCB orders vigilance inquiry into cruise drugs 'extortion' affidavit involving Sameer Wankhede

Senior officials did not rule out the possibility of Gosavi deliberately talking about surrendering in Lucknow to deflect the focus of the police in Maharashtra.

It was only around midnight that the crowds dispersed when the police confirmed that there would be no surrender.

In a telephonic conversation with some news channels, earlier on Monday evening, Gosavi had said that he wished to surrender in Lucknow as he felt 'threatened' in Mumbai.

A private investigator, Gosavi was present during the cruise ship raid and later at the NCB office with Aryan Khan. His selfie and videos with Aryan Khan at both places indicated that he had unlimited access to the son of Shah Rukh Khan.

Read more: Nawab Malik says Sameer Wankhede forged caste certificate, NCB official denies

This fuelled questions from Maharashtra's ruling alliance about the anti-drugs agency's investigation. Several leaders questioned why an 'independent witness' of the agency should be present at the raid and its office and take selfies with the high-profile accused.

A day ago, a man claiming to be Gosavi's personal bodyguard made allegations of bribery against him.

Prabhakar Sail, another witness in the case, said he heard Gosavi having a telephonic conversation about pay-offs with one Sam D'Souza.

Sail claimed he heard Gosavi say they should ask for a 'bomb of Rs 25 crore' and then settle at Rs 18 crore, of which Rs 8 crore is for the NCB's zonal officer in charge of the investigation, Sameer Wankhede.

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The Bombay High Court is slated to deliver an order on Aryan Khan's bail plea in the cruise ship drugs case on Tuesday.

Aryan, son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan was arrested by the Narcotics Control Bureau on October 3 after a dramatic cruise raid wherein at least eight people were detained and drugs seized.

An NDPS court had rejected Aryan's bail plea twice, on October 14 and October 21. Special Judge VV Patil accepted the NCBs contention that Aryan Khan was a regular consumer of drugs, dealing in narcotics and the case having international links as evident from his WhatsApp chats.

In its October 20 order, the court said: As argued by learned Additional Solicitor General, from WhatsApp chats of applicant no. 1 (Aryan Khan) it is reflected that he was indulging in illicit drug activities. Respondent (NCB) contended that since all the accused, including accused no. 1 are influential persons they are likely to tamper with evidence of prosecution if released on bail. Respondent claimed that accused no. 1 is in touch with foreign national and other drug dealers who appear to be part of an international drug network and investigations in this regard are going on and the respondent is tracing out the criminal antecedents of said persons.

Judge Patil also noted that if any of the accused is released on bail, it would tamper the entire investigation.

During interrogation applicant/accused no. 1 is the only person who could disclose the details of the said persons which are in the exclusive knowledge of accused no. 1, the order said.

After this, Aryan's lawyer Satish Maneshinde moved the Bombay High Court, challenging Judge Patil's verdict, for an urgent hearing. In his plea to the court, Aryan has said the NCB was "misinterpreting" his WhatsApp chats to implicate him in the case of seizure of banned drugs aboard a cruise ship off the Mumbai coast earlier this month.

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In a significant development, former Attorney General of India (AGI) Mukul Rohatgi is expected to appear for Aryan Khan's bail plea, scheduled to come up before the Bombay High Court, here on Tuesday.

Rohatgi -- who recently slammed the Narcotics Control Bureau by terming it as "an Ostrich with head buried in the sand", will join Khan's existing battery of lawyers in the HC during the day.

Read | Editorial: Aryan case raises questions

Besides Rohatgi, Khan's side comprises senior lawyers like Amit Desai and Satish Maneshinde who have fought for him in the Magistrate Court and Special NDPS Court, besides the HC.

Khan and 7 others were detained on October 2 after the NCB raided a rave party aboard a cruise ship, and the following day arrested, with another 12 subsequent arrests made in the sensational case.

The HC will hear the bail pleas of Khan, Arbaaz Merchant and Munmun Dhamecha, all of whom have so far spent 25 nights away from home.

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NCP chief spokesperson and Maharashtras minority affairs minister Nawab Malik has been targetting Sameer Wankhede ever since the NCBs Mumbai Zonal Director came to the limelight for arresting Shah Rukh Khan's son in the cruise ship drugs case.

Malik has so far made various allegations against Wankhede, as well as the anti-drugs agency, claiming an "extortion racket with the NCB" and "malafide intentions" behind cases filed against high-profile persons.

Track live updates of developments in Mumbai drugs bust case

'Illegal phone tapping'

In his latest salvo, Malik on Tuesday accused NCB official Sameer Wankhede of illegal phone tapping. Sameer Wankhede through two persons in Mumbai and Thane is illegally intercepting the mobile phones of some people, said Malik, who has been targeting Wankhede after his son-in-laws arrest.

Malik also claimed that Wankhede had sought the call detail record (CDR) of his family member from the police.

'Forged caste certificate'

Malik has also accused Wankhede of forging his caste certificate. According to Malik, as per the birth certificate, Wankhede is a born Muslim but he charged that he appeared for the UPSC exams through a reserved category and became an IRS officer.

Malik tweeted a purported birth certificate and marriage photo of the embattled Wankhede with telling captions: yahanse shuru hua farziwada (the fraud started here) and pehchan kaun (guess who).

Sameer Dawood Wankhede       pic.twitter.com/rjdOkPs4T6  Nawab Malik     (@nawabmalikncp) October 25, 2021

Wankhede, however, denied the charges saying that the minister is launching personal attacks on him and breaching his privacy.

Also Read  Nawab Malik shares letter alleging fraud within NCB in fresh salvo against Sameer Wankhede

'Extortion racket within NCB'

Earlier today, Malik shared a letter from an unnamed NCB official alleging fraud within the anti-drugs agency. Malik, who said he is forwarding the letter to NCB DG SN Pradhan, urged the agency to look into 26 allegations in a letter by an unknown NCB official claiming an "extortion racket" being run within the anti-drugs agency.

In the letter, the unnamed officer, who claimed that he has been working in the Mumbai NCB bureau for the past two years, alleged that Rakesh Asthana directed Sameer Wankhede and K P S Malhotra to register fake cases against Bollywood stars and extract money from them. The officer alleged that Wankhede and Malhotra filed 'fake cases' against Deepika Padukone, Shraddha Kapoor, Rakul Preet Singh, Sara Ali Khan, Bharti Singh and others extracted crores of rupees via their lawyer.

Maldives trip

The NCP leader has also alleged that Wankhede had gone to the Maldives during the lockdown to conduct an extortion racket. To this, Wankhede said that he had visited the Maldives "with proper permission" and with his "own money" and not during the second wave-induced lockdown as claimed by Malik but a few months later. Malik had also claimed that Wankhede visited Dubai, which the NCB Zonal Director denied.

'Malafide intentions'

Last week, Malik had alleged that the anti-drugs agency had "malafide intentions" and it has been involved in "selective leaks" to frame people.

The minister had also alleged that the NCB's raid on the cruise ship off the Mumbai coast on October 2 was fake, and no narcotic drugs were found during it.

Speaking in support of his son-in-law Sameer Khan, Malik had earlier referred to the bail order issued by an NDPS court and said that there was "no prima facie evidence of a drug syndicate". It is surprising that an agency like the NCB cannot differentiate between drugs which falls under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act and tobacco-related items, the NCP leader said.

NCB-BJP 'collusion'

Malik has alleged a collusion between the NCB and the BJP leaders in the drugs-on-cruise case in which Aryan Khan has been identified as the accused number 1.

The minister had claimed that NCB had initially detained 11 persons from a Goa-bound cruise ship off the Mumbai coast, but let off three of them, including the brother-in-law of BJP leader Mohit Bharatiya, a couple of hours later.

Apart from the recent drugs bust onboard a cruise liner off the Mumbai coast, Wankhede last year investigated a drug case linked to the death of actor Sushant Singh Rajput and several other matters related to narcotics involving high-profile people.

Amid mounting allegations, the NCB has ordered a vigilance inquiry into the claims made by a witness in the cruise drugs case of an extortion bid of Rs 25 crore by some agency officials, including its Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede, and others for letting off accused Aryan Khan, son of actor Shah Rukh Khan.

Wankhede has constantly denied all the allegations being made against him in this case. The officer on Sunday also wrote to Mumbai Police commissioner Hemant Nagrale, seeking protection from likely legal action "being planned" against him by unknown persons to falsely frame him concerning an alleged vigilance-related issue.

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The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has ordered a vigilance inquiry into the claims made by a witness in the cruise drugs case of an extortion bid of Rs 25 crore by some agency officials, including its Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede, and others for letting off accused Aryan Khan, son of actor Shah Rukh Khan.

The vigilance inquiry will be conducted by Gyaneshwar Singh, the NCB deputy director general (DDG) of northern region based at its headquarters here. Singh is also the chief vigilance officer (CVO) of the federal anti-narcotics agency.

Wankhede landed in the national capital late on Monday night. He told reporters outside the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport that he has come to Delhi for "some work" and has "not been summoned".

Also read: Aryan Khan case: NCB witness Gosavi likely to surrender in Lucknow

Dismissing all allegations against him as "baseless", he said he conducted a fair probe in the cruise drugs case and that he stands by it 100 per cent.

Prabhakar Sail, an independent witness in the cruise drugs case, had on Sunday claimed in an affidavit and in subsequent interactions with reporters in Mumbai that Rs 25 crore was demanded by an NCB official and some other people linked to the case to let off Aryan from this investigation.

Sail said he was the bodyguard of another witness in this case, K P Gosavi, who is absconding after the NCB raids, which were conducted on October 3 at the cruise terminal on Mumbai's coast leading to the arrest of as many as 20 people, including Aryan.

Sail also claimed that he saw Gosavi meeting Shah Rukh's manager and that he was asked to sign "9-10 blank pages" in the presence of Wankhede after the cruise raids.

"We have received the affidavit and a report from our DDG (south-west region) based in Mumbai and the NCB director general has taken cognisance of this report. He has marked it to the vigilance section for inquiry.

Read more: Nawab Malik says Sameer Wankhede forged caste certificate, NCB official denies

"We are a professional organisation and we are open for inquiry against any allegation against our staffers. The inquiry will be transparent and fair," Gyaneshwar Singh told PTI.

Asked if Wankhede will continue to probe the cruise case till this inquiry goes on, Singh said the question was "premature and we will take a call as the inquiry progresses and evidences are gathered".

Officials said the NCB inquiry will look at all aspects of the claims made by Sail and will also record the version of Wankhede, an Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer of 2008 batch Customs cadre, and other officers of the Mumbai zonal unit involved in this drugs bust case.

The inquiry team may also question Sail, they said.

A three-member team led by Singh may travel to Mumbai for "recording the evidence and taking submissions" in this case.

The report of the inquiry will be submitted to the NCB DG and based on the findings, he may take the next course of action.

Wankhede has constantly denied the allegations being made against him in this case.

After landing at the IGI airport here, Wankhede told media persons, "I am ready to face any inquiry... all allegations (against me) are baseless."

He said he is "absolutely" sure that he conducted a fair probe in the cruise drugs case and that he stands by it 100 per cent.

The officer on Sunday also wrote to Mumbai Police commissioner Hemant Nagrale, seeking protection from likely legal action "being planned" against him by unknown persons to falsely frame him concerning an alleged vigilance-related issue.

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A World Health Organization technical advisory group was reviewing data on India's Covaxin shot against Covid-19 on Tuesday with a decision on its emergency use listing likely soon, a spokesperson said.

"If all is in place and all goes well and if the committee is satisfied, we would expect a recommendation within the next 24 hours or so," Margaret Harris told journalists at a UN press briefing.

Millions of Indians have taken the shot produced by Bharat Biotech but many have been unable to travel pending the WHO approval.

Earlier this month, the WHO said that Bharat Biotech has been submitting data to WHO on a rolling basis and submitted additional information at the WHO's request on September 27.

Bharat Biotech had submitted EOI (Expression of Interest) on April 19 for its vaccine. The WHO said it began rolling data of the vaccine on July 6.

Rolling data allows the WHO to start its review right away, as information continues to come in, to accelerate the overall review process.

According to the WHO, submissions for pre-qualification or listing under the emergency use procedure are confidential.

If a product submitted for assessment is found to meet the criteria for listing, the WHO will publish the results widely.

Duration of the emergency use listing process depends on the quality of the data submitted by the vaccine manufacturer and on the data meeting the WHO's criteria, according to the agency.

If Covaxin is granted EUL by WHO, it will enable millions of individuals across the world to travel to countries without any restrictions. The US for example, allows individuals who have been vaccinated with WHO-approved shots to enter the nation without any curbs.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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Fifty years ago, when Pakistan's pillaging, rape and loot killed an estimated five million people and Bangladesh came into being following the 1971 war with India, it was impossible even to imagine the economic miracle now undernway in that country.

A sharp economic recovery from Covid indicates that for Dhaka, the good times may have just begun. Standard Chartered, a global bank, said in its latest report that the country would grow at over seven per cent in fiscal 2022. More importantly, this rate is likely to be sustained, making it a $500-billion economy by the fiscal year 2026.

It is significant to comprehend that the Bangladesh economic miracle is not at some future date. It's already happened. Its per capita gross domestic product (GDP) in 2020 was $2,227, while India clocked $1,947 and Pakistan only $1,543.

Three key factors have propped this miraculous growth. First, Bangladesh has taken a robust approach on its comparative strengths, mainly in apparel and basic pharmacy products and fisheries, to build a global scale.

The apparel industry has been now nurtured in Bangladesh for about thirty years. This has seen state-backed subsidies for power looms and a coordinated effort leveraging lower wage and power costs as China has shifted to value-added items in the apparel chain. Today Bangladesh is the world's second-largest apparel exporter after China, with exports of about $50 billion in 2019. The ability to attract industries such as apparel and basic pharmacy has also seen a broader social goal of job creation, and thus, the economic growth has seen a deeper uplift of the poor, a far broader return on investment for every dollar.

Second, Bangladesh has leveraged a small base advantage in labour costs. While the monthly labour cost for apparel in China is an estimated $600 (Rs 45,023 approximately), in Bangladesh, it is around $190 (Rs 14,257 approximately). Bangladesh has relatively high female participation in the labour force. A gender gap report by the World Economic Forum in 2021 said that female labour force participation was around 34 per cent, which is far higher than India, where it is estimated to be only 22 per cent. This positions Bangladesh as a country that can transform economic growth to social equality faster than many developing countries.

The Bangladesh government has assiduously cultivated global textile quota privileges that give it export preferences given its low-income status. Bangladesh has also kept pace with trends in both manufacturing equipment and technical skills of the workforce.

Apart from being an emerging global leader in apparel, Bangladesh is also leveraging its young overseas workforce to its advantage. With yearly remittances of $20 billion (Rs 1.5 lakh crore) funnelling back home, small businesses and tertiary industries such as aquaculture and transport have consistently seen double-digit growth for over a decade now. Finally, Bangladesh has seen promising returns in microfinance, leading to a small business revolution and a boost to equitable growth.

However, even with the staggering growth, risks are on the horizon. The biggest risk for Bangladesh is political, and the rise of Islamic fundamentalism threatens the basis of its equitable development. If not dealt with an iron hand, it could scare away female labour force participation and foreign investment.

The second risk for the Bangladesh economy is its over-reliance on just one industry  apparel - for over 85 per cent of its exports. While efforts are being made to change this, the pace of capital expenditure in footwear and pharmacy, two promising sectors, is inadequate. Bangladesh is becoming complacent in its growth, and that could be a risk.

The third risk comes from India. The Narendra Modi government has been incentivising apparel exports for the last three years, and it is showing results on the ground. This year India's apparel exports rose 22 per cent compared to Bangladesh at 18 per cent. If cotton and yarn prices continue their upward trend and Indian industry incentives add up to a pushback, in that case, the sheer size of Indian production capability could undercut Bangladesh exports over the next five years. This is especially true because as Bangladesh moves out of the least developed countries, it will lose some crucial quota benefits in trade.

In sum, Bangladesh's economy has been miraculous in its growth  Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her team need more tricks up their sleeve to add magic to the miracle.

(The writer is a journalist)

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own. They do not necessarily reflect the views of DH.
Advertisements that contain a progressive social message are often slammed for precisely that reason  the message is abhorrent to those who are on the side of the bigots. Whether it was the ad for jewellery brand Tanishq last year that showed a Muslim family celebrating their Hindu daughter-in-law's baby shower or ethnic attire brand Fabindia's recent ad that gave an Urdu name to its Diwali collection, they attempt to portray India's multiculturalism and hence, infuriate illiberal yahoos who detest the idea of inter-faith harmony.

The Dabur Fem bleach ad film, released last week, aspires to this liberal, socially conscious genre of communication since it shows a lesbian married couple participate in Karwa Chauth, a north Indian cultural rite meant for heterosexual married couples. Expectedly, it has evoked a sharp reaction, and following Madhya Pradesh home minister Narottam Mishras threat of legal action for showing objectionable content, Dabur India has apologised and withdrawn the advertisement.

The thing is, the right-wing rage against the ad completely misses the point. The outcry against it should have come for a host of other reasons.

Read: Same-sex marriage now legal in 30 countries

The video shows two young women getting ready to celebrate their first Karwa Chauth festival. As part of the process of glamming up for the occasion, one of them applies the bleach to the other's face. We are told that they are observing the day-long fast for their respective partner's happiness and long life. Then, when night falls, we find the girls, resplendent in their silks and jewels, looking at each other through their sieves and breaking their fast, while an older woman watches them with a beatific smile.

The big reveal is, of course, that the girls are a same-sex couple. And as you take that in, a voiceover gushes: "Jab aisa ho nikhaar aapka, toh duniya ki soch kaise na badley? (When you glow like this, how can the world not change its mindset?)

Really? You need to be fair and glowy for the world to accept you as a lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, trans-sexual, queer (LGBTQ) person?

The makers of this video must have felt that the ad ticked an impressive woke box, that it was mainstreaming LGBTQ people by showing a lesbian couple observe Kadwa Chauth. However, while one appreciates its attempt to bring the issue of gay rights into the public space, the ad is so muddled in its approach, so ill-thought through and wrong-headed in its storytelling, that it ends up entirely queering (no pun intended) that pitch.

Most women-centric ads tend to display sneaky sexism, suggesting as they do that women must change themselves (get glowing skin, cascading hair, perfumed body, become multi-tasking superwomen, and so on) to achieve success in work and life. In the Fem ad, though, the sexism is not sneaky  it is splashed all over.

First, its so-called progressive story is nailed to an utterly regressive cultural rite like Karwa Chauth, where a wife goes without food and water all day because this is supposed to endow her husband with a long life. What's even more outrageous is that it makes the social acceptance of gay people and their right to marry contingent upon their having fair and blooming skin.

This is as ludicrous as it is counter-productive. You cannot hope to advance the cause of LGBTQ people by yoking it to manifestations of the same obscurantism and cultural orthodoxy that heaps opprobrium upon them. The Indian obsession with skin colour  the belief that you're a loser if you're dark and that to be fair-skinned is to command love, attention and opportunities  is part of the cultural prejudices that run deep in our society. Suggesting that fairness gives gay people (especially female gay people) the passport to acceptance and tolerance is a monstrous affirmation of those prejudices and hence completely overturns the ad's pretensions of social consciousness.

In 2018 the Supreme Court read down Section 377 (of the Indian Penal Code), a colonial-era law, thereby legalising gay sex between consenting adults. Despite that, the human rights of LGBTQ people are a long way from being fully realised. Same-sex couples in India cannot marry, cannot adopt children, and, in the absence of a comprehensive anti-discrimination law, they continue to face harassment and discrimination in many spheres of ordinary life.

On Monday, the Centre told the Delhi High Court, which was hearing a number of petitions seeking recognition of same-sex marriage, that marriage under Indian law had to be "between a biological man and a biological woman." Evidently, as far as the government is concerned, decriminalising gay sex does not translate into giving LGBTQ people the same social and legal rights enjoyed by their fellow citizens.

Mass media, including advertising campaigns, can certainly play a role in normalising the social acceptance of LGBTQ people and creating awareness about their rights. But half-baked communication that situates gay rights in the toxic mix of sexism, racism and retrograde cultural practices merely push the LGBTQ movement a few steps backwards. The Fem ad does exactly that.

(Shuma Raha is a journalist and author)

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are the author's own. They do not necessarily reflect the views of DH.

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The sheep died first, then the goats. When her only camel perished, Yurub Abdi Jama knew that her life as a herder was over, and joined the exodus from her village to the city.

Her people in northern Somalia had been herding for generations, born on arid land and accustomed to drought. But they could not outlast the final, unrelenting dry spell that scorched the earth and felled their beasts.

"In the past, God would always leave something for us, but now... We had to flee. You go where you can when you lose everything," said Jama, crouched outside the shanty where she now lives, hundreds of miles away in barren hills outside Hargeisa city.

Jama is a climate migrant -- one of tens of thousands on the move in Somalia, where environmental extremes are forcing waves of herders and farmers off the land toward cities ill-equipped to host them.

In recent years, natural disasters -- not conflict -- have been the main driver of displacement in Somalia, a war-torn nation in the Horn of Africa that ranks among the world's most vulnerable to climate change. Fierce and frequent droughts and floods have uprooted more than three million Somalis since 2016, according to UNHCR data that tracks internal displacement by cause. The phenomenon is emptying parts of Somalia's rural interior and spawning huge camps on the outskirts of cities, as urban populations swell with desperate migrants seeking a new start.

Most, like Jama, arrive with nothing, and drift in destitution.

She left behind her rural homeland near Aynabo for Hargeisa, an unfamiliar city about 260 kilometres (160 miles) away.

Penniless, she took refuge with other newly-arrived herders in a desolate squatter camp outside town, scavenging enough to build a hut with sticks and cloth for her husband and eight children. But the pastoral family lacked the skills needed to earn a living in the beleaguered city, where unemployment and poverty is rife, and women beg on potholed street corners.

At dawn, Jama's husband trudges off in search of work. Most days, he returns empty handed.

"I make next to nothing from town," said Uba Adan Juma, who moved to the city three years ago when her goats died in drought, and struggles to support her family in their bleak new setting.

Both women hail from Somaliland, a poor and isolated northwestern region, where climate change has upended life in just a few generations.

Pastoral communities used to assign names to the great droughts that occurred every decade or so.

"But now, it has changed. Droughts are so frequent, they are nameless," Shukri Haji Ismail, the region's environment minister, told AFP.

She said the country of her youth was lush, blanketed by savannas and fruit trees, and inhabited by native birds and wildlife.

A map on her office wall illustrates the sobering reality today: swathes of red indicating land swallowed by the ever-expanding desert, a scourge stretching from Ethiopia to the Gulf of Aden. "Somaliland is experiencing -- literally -- the word climate change," she told AFP.

"It is not what might happen. It is here, it is there, and we are experiencing it... Our people have really suffered."

Somalia has experienced two consecutive seasons of below-average rain, with a third on the way. Harvests have failed and the Famine Early Warning Systems Network warned in August that hunger will worsen by year's end, with 3.5 million people in dire need. The rain that does fall can prove more a curse than a blessing.

Somalia witnessed tremendous flooding in 2020, capped by the strongest tropical storm to hit the country since records began.

Rainfall is projected to become more erratic and extreme over Somalia in coming years, accelerating the flight to cities and stoking greater conflict over limited resources, said Lana Goral from the International Organization for Migration.

"It's quite the dire outlook," said Goral, an expert on climate change and migration in Somalia.

The country's cash-strapped administrations have virtually no capacity to address the unfolding crisis.

Some policymakers have proposed relocating disaster-ravaged communities to the coast as pastoral life becomes increasingly untenable. "But it takes some time to change the mindsets of the people," Shukri said.

Hassan Hussein Ibrahim, from Save the Children, said time was not on their side.

The charity assists 11,000 families in Somaliland with cash stipends but many need new skills to start afresh, he said. "They will also need to adapt," he told AFP.

It is easier said than done for Jama.

"The drought forced us out," the 35-year-old said, her head in her hands. "We would never have walked away from that life, the life that we loved." But there's nowhere else left for her to go.

On a recent visit to her village, hoping to find relatives, Jama discovered a ghostly emptiness -- no people, no livestock, no signs of life.

Cruelly, the waterholes were full, with neither man nor beast around to drink from them.

"Life here is difficult as well," she said, referring to the city, "but where would I run to now?"
By Abdulkader Sinno for The Conversation,

Close to a hundred Afghan Shiite Muslims were killed in attacks on mosques in October 2021.

One such attack took place on October 15, when a group of suicide bombers detonated explosives at a mosque in Kandahar.

Just over a week before that, at least 46 people were killed in another suicide bomber attack in northern Afghanistan. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for both attacks.

Ethnicity and religion are key to understanding the politics and conflicts of todays Afghanistan.

Also Read | What is the future of ethnic groups in Afghanistan now that Taliban is back in power?

My research on Afghan affairs can explain how they have created fault lines that have influenced Afghanistans politics since 1978.

The largest ethnic group in Afghanistan, estimated at around 45 per cent of the population and mostly concentrated in the south and east of the country, are the Sunni Muslim Pashtun.

The Pashtun population is split in half by the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan, the Durand Line, and has a long history of challenging state authority and the legitimacy of official borders in both countries.

Until recently, when Pakistan built a fence on the border, Pashtun tribesmen and fighters crossed the border as if it did not exist.

The Pashtun are often characterised as being fiercely independent and protective of their land, honour, traditions and faith.

Also Read | Afghanistan's Hazara, a long-persecuted minority living in fear of Taliban

The first time Pashtun fighters defeated an invading superpower was when they destroyed a British army sent to colonise Afghanistan in what is known as the First Anglo-Afghan War, which lasted from 1838 to 1942.

The Pashtun tribes and clans martial prowess makes them very influential in the politics of Afghanistan.

Except for two short-lived exceptions, in 1929 and between 1992 and 1994, only Pashtun leaders have ruled Afghanistan since 1750.

The second-largest ethnic group in Afghanistan are the Tajiks, a term that refers to ethnic Tajiks as well as to other Sunni Muslim Persian speakers.

The Tajiks, who constitute some 30 per cent of the Afghan population and are mostly concentrated in the northeast and west, have generally been accepted by Pashtuns as part of the fabric of life in Afghanistan, perhaps because of their common adherence to Sunni Islam.

The third-largest Sunni Muslim group are the Uzbeks and the closely related Turkmen in the north of the country, who form around 10 per cent of the population.

The Hazara  around 15 per cent of the Afghan population  traditionally lived in the rough mountainous terrain in the center of Afghanistan, an area in which they historically sought shelter from Pashtun tribesmen who disapproved of their adherence to the Shiite sect of Islam.

The Hazara have historically been some of the poorest and most marginalised people in Afghanistan.

Most Afghans hardly reacted when a faction of Afghanistans communist party took power in April 1978, because the Afghan government had traditionally played a very limited role outside of the larger cities.

They did, however, rise in impromptu revolts when the communists sent their activists to conservative villages to teach Afghan children Marxist dogma.

When the Soviets invaded in 1979, resistance spread to much of Afghanistan. Mujahideen  the Muslim warriors defending their land  from all ethnic groups played a role in resisting the Soviet military.

Later, a brutish Uzbek communist militia leader named Abdul Rashid Dostum eliminated most Uzbek Mujahideen, and most Hazara Mujahideen parties made a tacit agreement with the Soviets to reduce hostilities.

Most Pashtuns and Tajiks, however, continued to resist until the Soviet withdrawal and the collapse of the Soviet-backed regime in Kabul.

The Soviets promoted minority interests and gender equality in areas of Afghanistan they controlled, which led the larger cities they controlled to evolve culturally to a point that made city life unrecognisably alien to many rural Afghans.

The withdrawal of the Soviet Red Army in February 1989 led to the cessation of US aid to the Mujahideen parties, which turned Mujahideen field commanders, whose loyalty to party leaders was based on their ability to distribute financial and military resources, into militarised independent local leaders.

Similarly, the regimes militias and units also became independent after its collapse in April 1992.

Afghanistan, particularly the Pashtun areas, became fragmented, with hundreds of local leaders and warlords fighting over territory, drug production, smuggling routes and populations to tax.

While many local leaders cared about the welfare of their kith and kin, some were warlords who abused fellow Afghans.

In 1994, a group of previous Pashtun Mujahideen formed the Taliban and managed to control most of Afghanistan, including Kabul, by the time the US invaded in late 2001.

The Talibans rise was fueled by rural Pashtun support for its agenda of ending warlord-generated insecurity, bringing back Pashtun prominence and recreating traditional Pashtun village life  as they imagined it to have been.

The Talibans conservative views reflected the values of a large section of the public they governed in the south and east of the country.

The conservative rural Taliban, traumatised by decades of war, encountered an alien cultural environment when they took over Kabul.

They reacted forcefully, limited urban womens access to education and labour and imposed strict limitations on dress, appearance and public behaviour.

Afghans in urban areas, particularly women, and members of Afghan minorities did not by and large share the parochial Taliban understanding of their common faith.

They were undermined, threatened or punished when they attempted to challenge Taliban restrictions.

The Shiite Hazara, in particular, were subjected to brutal retaliatory attacks when they resisted Taliban rule.

The US military invaded Afghanistan and allied with minority local leaders and some Pashtun warlords to oust the Taliban.

These warlords ended up filling most key posts in the regime the US-led coalition established in Kabul.

For warlords from all backgrounds, it appeared to be a golden age. The rest of the Afghan population, even more so in Pashtun areas than in others, went back to suffering from warlords predatory behaviour.

In 2004, three years after the US occupation began, the mostly Pashtun Taliban reorganised as an insurgent force to fight the US-led occupation and the regime it established in Afghanistan.

Enterprising urban youths, including women, from historically disadvantaged minorities, particularly the Shiite Hazara, took advantage of aid, education programs and foreign-driven employment opportunities to advance.

In contrast, the rural Pashtun, who suffered the brunt of the warfare between the Taliban and US-led coalition, were set back economically and hardly benefited from investments in health and education.

One of the byproducts of the US occupation of Afghanistan was the development of a local branch of the Islamic State, the Islamic State-Khorasan (an Arabic name for the region).

The organisation was formed by defectors from the Taliban who felt that their leadership was too soft on the Americans.

This group has engaged in attacks on Shiite civilians, whom it considers to be heretics and agents of Shiite Iran. It was responsible for attacks on US troops such as the August 2021 attack on the Kabul airport.

It is also antagonistic toward the Taliban.

The return of the Taliban to Kabul after the withdrawal of US troops in August 2021 is a return to a rural Pashtun order.

Most Taliban leaders are rural Pashtuns who received their education in conservative madrassas in Afghanistan or Pashtun areas of Pakistan.

Only three of the 24 members of the Taliban interim government are not Pashtuns  they are Tajiks.

And the Taliban are running the country the way they imagine life in Pashtun villages used to be before Afghanistan sank into perpetual war in 1979.

The Taliban movement caters to the sensibilities of conservative rural Pashtun Muslims.

Their understanding of Islam is not necessarily shared by other Afghans, religious as they may be.

In the meantime, the Islamic State group is conducting massive terrorist attacks on Shiite mosques, a tactic that originated with the Iraqi branch of the organisation.

One aim of the Islamic States attacks, I believe, is to drive recruitment that has weakened over the past years by appealing to anti-Shiite sentiment among the Pashtun, particularly after the US withdrawal and Taliban successes on the battlefield.

(The author is an Associate Professor of Political Science and Middle Eastern Studies at Indiana University)

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Violent attacks upon the Hindu minority in Bangladesh, holding meaningful patriotic programmes as part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav, promoting Swadeshi and programmes to be organised to mark the 100th year of RSS to be held in 2025 are among the issues that will be discussed at the three-day Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sanghs Akhil Bharatiya Karyakari Mandal Baithak (ABKM) to be held from October 28 (Thursday) at Rashtrotthana Vidya Kendra located at Garag in Dharwad taluk.

Giving details of the three-day executive meeting on Tuesday, RSS national Prachar Pramukh (publicity in-charge) Sunil Ambekar said that the national executive of the Sangha to be chaired by Sarsanghachalak (chief) Mohan Bhagwat will review the action plan prepared by the Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha (ABPS) this year.

Also Read | Post-poll violence in West Bengal triggered communal violence in Bangladesh: RSS

As many as 350 delegates including sarakaryavah (general secretary) Dattatreya Hosabale and Akhil Bharatiya, Kshetra and Prant Adhikari will be present at the meeting.

Ambekar said that Seva Bharati, an organ of Sangh Parivar had taken up relief work during the Covid-19 and as many as 10 lakh Swayamsevaks had taken part in the relief camps at 1.5 lakh places in the country. Training will be imparted to swayamsevaks about handling the Covid-19 situation to enable them to work effectively in the event of another wave.

Programmes will be chalked out to train the swayamsevaks in promoting swadeshi concept in the country and instilling love and affinity towards the native language, culture and heritage.

Also Read | RSS turns favourite poll-time bugbear for Siddaramaiah, HD Kumaraswamy

Hindus who are minorities in Bangladesh are being persecuted in that country and the RSS national executive will discuss the issue and formulate a policy to protect the interests of the Hindus.

RSS which was founded in 1925 will complete 100 years in 2025 and special programmes will be chalked out for four years ahead (2021-24) of the centenary celebrations, he said.

Reacting to reports in a section of the media that Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP National president J P Nadda and other BJP leaders will be present at the meeting Ambekar said that no BJP minister for Union or State will participate in the meeting as the ABPS will be attended by only RSS functionaries to discuss organisational issues like expansion and training of swayamsevaks.

Also Read | Lawyer moves Mumbai court against Javed Akhtar over his RSS remarks

Security beefed up

Security has been beefed up at the Rastrotthana Vidyakendra premises on Garag road in view of the presence of senior RSS functionaries who are under security cover. RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat has been provided 'Z' category security.

Dharwad Superintendent of Police P Krishnakant who visited the RVK campus on Tuesday afternoon inspected the security arrangements. He said security arrangements have been made as per the protocol.

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Schools across Karnataka reopened for offline classes for grades 1 to 5 on Monday, after a gap of one year and eight months.

There was a palpable sense of joy and excitement among the children.

The schools were decorated with balloons, flowers and ribbons and a festive atmosphere prevailed everywhere, much to the joy of the children and parents.

Teachers and non-teaching staff at schools stood at the entrance and gave a warm welcome to the kids.

Some schools gave sweets and pencils as a welcome gift to the students. Strict Covid guidelines were in place.

In Pics | Schools for class 1 to 5 reopen in Karnataka

Sources in the Education Department said government schools on day one reported an attendance of 90% and the figure was 75% in private schools affiliated to state boards.

However, a majority of private schools affiliated with CBSE, ICSE have decided to reopen after the Deepavali holidays, bowing to parents requests.

Out of the 62,032 schools providing primary education, only 24,761 schools have provided data of students attendance on day one.

As per the data, 27.39% of grade 1 students, 24.69% of grade 2 and 23.58% of class 3 students, 24.13% of grade 4 and 23.95% of grade 5 students came to school on day one.

Suguna N, headmistress of the government lower primary school in Pattanagere at RR Nagar in Bengaluru said, We are very excited to see children back in school. Soon after the announcement by the government on the reopening of schools, we sent voice messages to parents conveying the same. The response is overwhelming.

Parents and children made several phone calls since Sunday to confirm about the opening and also to know about safety protocols. We told parents that wearing masks is a must. We had also stocked up enough masks in the school, said Suguna.

The children stunned teachers with their knowledge of Covid-appropriate behaviour.

Palak, a class 3 student of a government school in Bengaluru South, told DH, I am happy to see my friends, but I will be careful not to touch any of them or share my belongings with them.

Amrutha, another class 3 child, said, My parents used to go to work and I had to take care of my younger brother as the school was closed. Now, I am happy to be back in school and meet my friends and teachers, she said.

Tabassum from class 2 said, I am not scared of corona. I will wear a mask, bring hot water from home, maintain distance from friends and wash my hands frequently.

Admission rush

On day one, a majority of the government schools were crowded with parents and children seeking admissions to primary grades. Though the schools were doing admissions all these days, the rush was huge on Monday.

Classes in shifts

Following the increase in the number of students, some government schools have decided to conduct classes in shifts.

We need to manage with the available resources and infrastructure. The number of admissions is high this year and we are planning to conduct classes for younger children in the morning and for grades 6 and 7 in the afternoon, said the headmaster of a government school in Bengaluru.

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Two suspected cases of AY.4.2 variant of the novel coronavirus have been identified and the samples have been sent to a laboratory for genome sequencing, Karnataka Health Minister K Sudhakar said on Tuesday.

"There are two suspected cases of AY.4.2 variant of viruses and I have instructed my department to send the samples for genomic sequencing for confirmation," Sudhakar told reporters here.

Also Read | Review of India's Covaxin shot underway, says WHO

Health department officials said that the samples have been sent to the National Centre for Biological Sciences (NCBS) in Bengaluru for testing. They also said both the affected persons are from Bengaluru and are asymptomatic.

They added that the AY.4.2 is said to be a Delta variant of the novel coronavirus, which is spreading rapidly in the United Kingdom. Speaking about Karnataka's preparedness, Sudhakar mentioned that the state has started genome sequencing and have set up six-seven (genome) labs in the state.

Also Read | Vaccination for all: Bringing offline and online together

The minister said that whenever a new variant emerges the state can immediately get the advice of the experts and discuss it with the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICMR). Regarding the new variant creating fresh trouble in the UK, he said he will speak to the chairperson of the Technical Advisory Committee on Covid-19 on it. He also said that studies are underway to find out what variant it is.

Sudhakar claimed those who have received two doses of the Covid vaccine need not be afraid of the virus as it will have little effect on them. The minister said there was no need to panic as the state government has taken enough steps to check the spread of the disease.

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Dhamaka: Ram Madhvani reveals it was Kartik Aaryan's idea to remake the South Korea film The Terror Live

Adapting a movie from a different culture and making it relevant for Indian audiences is challenging, says director Ram Madhvani who was keen to explore the story of a fallen hero in "Dhamaka".

The film, a remake of the South Korean title "The Terror Live", features Kartik Aaryan as a cynical ex-TV news anchor. Aryan's character gets an alarming call on his radio show and sees it as a chance for a career comeback but it may cost him his conscience.

"It is always tough to make it culturally rooted and make it acceptable. It took me a lot of time to figure out how to make it for everyone across all age groups as a family film," Madhvani told PTI.

With Dhamaka, Madhvani said the aim is to offer a take on ambition and what one gains or loses while climbing the ladder of success.

"Dhamaka is about a man who is ambitious and loses some of his value systems and the central question that the film asks is Kya khoya kya paya'. That is for all of us whether it is in a relationship or work-life balance. What are the things that we begin to lose and gain in doing what we have to do? It is about a fallen hero and it is tragic, he said.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by KARTIK AARYAN (@kartikaaryan)

The toughest part was to crack the theme of the movie, according to Madhvani.

To me, I think of a story in a different way, a lot of people think about the plot, I think about themes. I get scared of plots because everybody is interested in the plot. However, that will be there as we have to make sure the audience is either happy or emotional, but beyond that what am I saying? he said.

Citing the example of his 2016 award-winning movie Neerja , based on a real incident during the hijacking of the Pan Am Flight 73 at the Karachi airport in 1986, Madhvani said it was not a hijack film but a story about a mother-daughter and how the family overcomes the loss of their child.

In this case, the title Dhamaka is about the explosion in life, truth, love, etc so there is a certain metamorphosis in the title. It is about 'dhamaka' that happens in the life of the character be it physically or externally or internally, he added.

The "Aarya" director said he and Aaryan wanted to work together for the last two-three years and it's the actor who suggested remaking the South Korean film The Terror Live.

We have been conversing about the scripts that we want to make together, one of them was comedy. I am hoping it will happen someday. We were exchanging stories with each other, he had a conversation about this ( Dhamaka') and I felt we could collaborate.

"It is an adaptation from a South Korean film, it is something that Kartik had shown me and we liked it. We have got our own take on it. It has happened in years time from where it started and we shot and we are here, set to release it on Netflix.

When asked about the idea of going beyond the type in presenting actors like Sonam Kapoor, Sushmita Sen and now Aaryan in a never-seen-before avatar, the director said the aim is not to reinvent anyone but to collectively create a newer opportunity.

I am not here to reinvent anybody, they are there to reinvent themselves and that's what they decided to do. This was the opportunity for the role and it was up to them to decide.

"I view them (differently) because they gave me some faith, trust and decided 'let's work together' and it is a big thing for me, he said.

Madhvani is making a remake of a South Korean movie at a time when K-dramas and music are gaining huge popularity across the globe.

"I am listening to K-Pop music, which I like and I have seen Korean movies and I would love to visit Korea. It is just this particular subject that we all found interesting to collaborate, he said.

Amruta Subhash, Vikas Kumar and Mrunal Thakur are also in the cast of Dhamaka, which will be out on Netflix on November 19.
Emraan Hashmi feels not too many actors want to do horror films: "Maybe they don't understand the genre..."

Actor Emraan Hashmi says horror films fascinate him, which is why he is motivated to collaborate with filmmakers trying to redefine the genre in Bollywood.

The 42-year-old actor, who started his journey in the Hindi film industry as an assistant director on Vikram Bhatt's 2002 horror blockbuster "Raaz", he tries his best to contribute to the genre's evolution in India.

"I've been a horror geek since I was a kid. I used to watch a lot of horror movies and I still do. It's my first choice when I want to watch something. I will pick a spooky movie before I would go to a drama or a comedy. Horror is a genre I love and I'm fascinated with," Hashmi told PTI in an interview.

Since his acting debut with 2003's thriller "Footpath", the actor has appeared in horror films -- "Raaz - The Mystery Continues", "Raaz 3", "Ek Thi Daayan" and "Raaz: Reboot".

Growing up, the actor said he has seen most of the iconic horror films from like "The Exorcist", "The Omen", "Poltergeist" to "The Shining", and is still is an avid viewer of horror stories from not just Hollywood but other international languages as well.

Ramsay Brother movies are something that the actor used to enjoy as a kid but looking back, Hashmi believes the biggest failing of Hindi horror films has been a lack of aesthetics.

"As compared to Hollywood or other foreign languages, we don't make horror films at all. It's like one film will stand out in a couple of years. Generally, aesthetics are something we lack. Like "Ramsay" films used to be entertaining for me as a kid but when I look back, I realise they lacked the aesthetics to lure a larger audience."

The actor said big directors, producers and stars are unwilling to explore horror as a genre.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Emraan Hashmi (@therealemraan)

"If there is no bankable name in the film, be it the producer or the director or the actor, then the budgets are low and that makes aesthetics pretty much non-existent.

"Also not too many actors want to act in horror films. Maybe they don't understand the genre or probably they are not fond of the genre. I'm fond of it, that's why I work in it," he said.

The actor, who is now returning to the genre after five years with "Dybbuk", said it was director Jay K's unique vision that made him say yes to the project.

The film revolves around a couple who start experiencing paranormal activities in their new home after they purchase an antique box.

With Jewish occult at its backdrop, the film had many new things to offer to him as a horror aficionado, said the actor.

"It's the director's new interpretation of how horror should be. In a country where we haven't really learned how to tap in horror effectively, Jay has a very keen eye and very different outlook towards horror, which is very effective. It would really spook horror fans," he said about the Amazon original movie set to premiere on Prime Video on October 29.

"Dybbuk" is the official remake of Jay's 2017 Malayalam blockbuster "Ezra", which starred Prithviraj Sukumaran, Priya Anand, and Tovino Thomas.

Hashmi said even though he had seen the film prior to reading the script, he has not used it as a reference point.

"There are new revelations in how a director sees things... And Jay catches nuances in horror which I love. Horror is not about jump scare moments, it's about how one choreographs those jump scare moments," he asserted.

In the future, Hashmi said he aspires to do a psychological horror or a horror-comedy movie if he is offered a good story.

The actor said his constant aim has been to make good films with good people and moving ahead he will continue pursuing the same.

"That has always been the quest, since the first film, and it continues. How good I've gotten or bad I've gotten, that's for the audience to gauge. I believe one is as good as their last film," he said, adding that action, comedy and sci-fi films are also on his list.
In Shah Rukh Khan's absence, Nayanthara bows out of Atlee's next as the film faces delays: Reports

Shah Rukh Khan is currently focusing all his attention at home and has put all his work commitments on hold as his son Aaryan Khan remains lodged in the Arthur Road Jail. While the Bollywood star is busy trying to get his son released on bail, reports suggest that his next with Atlee is now facing trouble since the leading man of the film has been absent from shooting since the beginning of October.

According to certain reports Nayanthara who had signed on to play the leading lady in the project and had already begun shooting with SRK is now forced to drop out of the project. Apparently, the actress had taken out October and the first half of November to shoot for the Atlee-directed film. Since the project is facing delays the actress has reportedly decided to bow out as she has other work commitments to honour and would not be spare the time.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Desimartini Movies (@desimartinimovies)

Makers are now said to be keen on approaching Family Man 2 actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu for the project. Samantha was initially linked to the project as well before Nayanthara was signed on and we wonder if shed say yes to the film if approached for a second time.

As for Shah Rukh Khan, the actor was committed to shoot for a schedule in Mumbai for Atlees next before Aryans arrest. It is still unclear when the star will be able to join the shoot again. Aryans bail hearing in the Bombay High Court is scheduled for today.
Sanya Malhotra says she did a lot of homework for her one Rajinikanth dialogue in Meenakshi Sundareshwar

Five years after her sensational debut with biographical drama "Dangal", actor Sanya Malhotra says she has finally found her footing in the film industry as now she feels more "comfortable" with her craft.

Her portrayal of wrestler Babita Kumari in the Aamir Khan-led movie, opened doors for the Delhi-born actor, who later took up diverse projects such as Vishal Bhardwaj's "Pataakha", National Award-winning movie "Badhaai Ho" and "Photograph".

"I'm much more comfortable and confident in myself now. After five years, I can say that (because) for a few years at the beginning I was quite confused, I'd think 'What is happening? How do I do this?'. But now I am much more comfortable being myself. That's a great journey," Malhotra told PTI.

The 29-year-old actor has been having a golden run with critical hits like "Shakuntala Devi" and Anurag Basu's comedy "Ludo".

In 2021, Malhotra earned praise for headlining the Netflix film, "Pagglait".

"I'm confident with the kind of films that I'm doing, the kind of characters that I'm playing and whatever is happening in my professional life. I'm quite happy. It is a nice comfort zone that I have achieved. I hope I am able to sustain it," she added.

The actor returns to streamer Netflix with her latest, "Meenakshi Sundareshwar", co-starring Abhimanyu Dassani.

In the Karan Johar-backed romantic comedy, Malhotra plays one half of the titular character and says she was instantly drawn to the project because as an audience she was craving to watch a love story.

In Meenakshi, an independent, fiesty girl from Madurai, the actor saw an opportunity to perform and lead a relatable romantic film.

"It was love at first sight for me. When I first heard the script, I could relate to it. It is a universal and a very relatable story. The character also spoke to me on a lot of levels.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanya Malhotra (@sanyamalhotra_)

"And the fact that as an audience, I was craving to watch a simple love story, that was also something that I got attracted to the character and the script," she added.

Helmed by debutant director Vivek Soni, the film follows the journey of a young couple, Meenakshi and Sundareshwar, who are in a long distance marriage.

Malhotra described her character Meenakshi as someone who is confident and knows what she wants.

"I love the fact that she loves Sundar for the way he is. She doesn't want him to change. They are two opposite people, who are ready to grow together and don't want both of them to change even a bit for each other."

When the film's teaser and trailer were launched last week, a section on social media had expressed their fear that "Meenakshi Sundareshwar" will only further South Indian stereotypes.

Malhotra said there was never a possibility to turn the characters as caricatures as the team was sensitive with the narrative it had to chronicle.

"Our direction was clear, Vivek did that very well to ensure that it (stereotyping) doesn't happen. It is a Bollywood film with extremely well written characters and scripts. As an actor, I didn't need anything else apart from the reading material that I had when I was prepping for the character.

"There is a Rajinikath dialogue that I speak in the film, so for that I did a lot of homework. It wasn't on my mind that I don't want to offend anyone, I simply wanted to perform it well," she added.

Co-written by Soni and Aarsh Vora, the film will premiere on Netflix on November 5.
One Mic Stand S2: Sunny Leone, Karan Johar starrer comedy series gets rave reviews from netizens

One Mic Stand season 2 followed the unique style of it's predecessor and the hit show came out on 22nd October. Pairing up a standup comic with influential people from different people the ideation of show was always considered a game changer and it was only a matter of time before the audience's praise started pouring in. The fans of the show took to social media to express their true feelings for the show and they had some serious praise to shower the show with.

The show features personalities like Sunny Leone, Faye D'Souza, Chetan Bhagat, Raftaar and Karan Johan amongst others and the fans were delighted to see them try their hands at standup comedy. Here's some of the best tweets by fans.

"She tried and she worked it amazing performance, good jokes and nice use of punch lines.. she can do it all.. #OneMicStandOnPrime #OneMicStand #SunnyLeone @SunnyLeone @sapanv @PrimeVideoIN"

View this post on Instagram A post shared by amazon prime video IN (@primevideoin)

"It was fantastic seeing the humourous side of

@fayedsouza, @karanjohar and @SunnyLeone on #OneMicStand. The world (especially India) needs more good comedy. @PrimeVideoIN #OneMicStandSeason2"

"Finished with #OneMicStand S2 and @fayedsouza was so good!!

Haven't seen her on TV much, may have seen her tweets or insta posts, don't know much.. but she was really good!

It's the best episode in this season!! @sapanv great concept @PrimeVideoIN prepare for more seasons!"

"#OneMicStand @chetan_bhagat act was the best. In fact it was better than that of abhish Mathews in the beginning.way to go"

"Sunny Leone's #OneMicStand was SO cool. Loved the way she brought up the Chaubey interview. Power to you @SunnyLeone "

'One Mic Stand' is an incredibly funny and acclaimed Amazon Original Series. The show featuring Sunny Leone alongside the other iconic figures including Karan Johar, Chetan Bhagat, Raftaar and Faye D'Souza, the show premiered on October 22. The show is hosted by Sapan Verma and participating celebrities will be mentored by comedians including Sumikhi Suresh, Samay Raina, Neeti Palta, Atul Khatri and Abish Mathew.
NEWS RELEASE Release Number: 2021-110 Date: October 26, 2021

California Labor Commissioner Cites El Super Grocery Stores more than $1.1 Million for COVID-19 Supplemental Paid Sick Leave

Los AngelesThe Labor Commissioners Office has again cited Bodega Latina dba El Super grocery stores in Southern California $1,164,500 for failing to provide or delaying supplemental paid sick leave or other benefits to 240 workers at 38 locations affected by COVID-19. An investigation found that some workers were forced to work while sick, others were told to apply for unemployment while quarantining or in isolation, while others waited months to be paid. In July, the Labor Commissioner cited El Super $447,876 for similar violations affecting 95 workers at three stores.

Supplemental paid sick leave is a tool to protect our communities by stopping the spread of COVID-19 through the workplace, said Labor Commissioner Lilia Garcia-Brower. After citing El Super in July, we heard from additional workers who had their sick leave denied or delayed. We broadened the scope of our investigation to capture as many workers impacted by these violations as possible and provide them what they are due.

The Labor Commissioners Office opened its investigation on September 9, 2020 after receiving complaints from workers and a referral from the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, which represents grocery store workers. The investigators determined the employer did not consistently inform workers of their rights to supplemental paid sick leave if affected by COVID-19. In some instances, sick workers were told to come to work until they received their test results even when they had COVID-19 symptoms. To cover isolation time, some workers were told to apply for unemployment or disability. Some were denied time off to isolate when members of their household had tested positive. Some workers were never paid for their time off due to COVID-19.

The citations include $369,527 in wages, damages and interest for failing to provide leave under 2020 COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave for food sector workers, and $42,473 in wages, damages and interest for failing to provide leave under 2021 COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave for employers with 26 or more employees. In addition, $752,500 was assessed for nonpayment or late payment of supplemental paid sick leave.

The citations were issued to Bodega Latina Corporation, a Delaware corporation doing business as El Super with 52 stores in California. The following locations were cited:

5702 Firestone Blvd, #1, South Gate. 263 9th St., #37, San Bernardino 5646 E. Whittier Blvd., #3, Commerce 1578 W. Base Line St., #38, San Bernardino 3405 E Cesar E Chavez Ave., # 4, Los Angeles 570 S Mount Vernon Ave, #39, San Bernardino 12727 Sherman Way, # 5, North Hollywood 14103 Ramona Blvd, #41, Baldwin Park 650 N Euclid St., #11, Anaheim 15202 Hawthorne Blvd, #43, Lawndale 1100 W Slauson Ave, #13, Los Angeles 1527 Mission Ave, #45, Oceanside 960 W. Arrow Highway, #14, Covina 120 W. Anaheim Street, #48, Wilmington 10531 S. Carmenita Rd, #16, Santa Fe Springs 450 Long Beach Blvd., #49, Long Beach 1301 E Gage Ave., #17, Los Angeles 1000 N Mountain Ave, #50, Ontario 5610 York Blvd, #18, Los Angeles 4421 University Ave, #51, San Diego 14601 Lakewood Blvd, #21, Paramount 9320 Slauson Ave, #54, Pico Rivera 1285 N. Hacienda Blvd., #24, La Puente 1212 Magnolia Ave, #56, Corona 3211 Firestone Blvd, #27, South Gate 5800 Van Buren Blvd, #57, Riverside 14590 Bear Valley Road, #28, Victorville 310 E Florence Ave, #58, Los Angeles 151 W. Lincoln Ave, #29, Escondido 81619 US Highway 125, #63, Indio 16950 Foothill Blvd, #31, Fontana 8601 Hooper Ave, #500, Los Angeles 9850 Sierra Ave, #32, Fontana 7220 S Vermont Ave, #501, Los Angeles 24899 Alessandro Blvd, #34, Moreno Valley 1035 South La Brea Ave, #502, Inglewood 515 S Riverside Ave, #35, Rialto 1950 Sterling Ave, #A86, Ontario

The 2021 supplemental paid sick leave law, which went into effect on March 29 and is retroactive to January 1, 2021, requires that California workers are provided up to two weeks of supplemental paid sick leave if they are affected by COVID-19. Among the key updates in the legislation, leave time also applies to attending a COVID-19 vaccine appointment and recovering from symptoms related to the vaccine. The law expired September 30, 2021. Small businesses employing 25 or fewer workers are exempt from the law but may offer supplemental paid sick leave and receive a federal tax credit, if eligible.

If your employer refused to provide paid sick leave or COVID-19 supplemental paid sick leave as required by law, please call the Labor Commissioners Office at 833-LCO-INFO (833-526-4636) or visit the California Labor Commissioners Office website.

The Department of Industrial Relations Division of Labor Standards Enforcement (California Labor Commissioners Office) combats wage theft and unfair competition by investigating allegations of illegal and unfair business practices.

The Labor Commissioners Office in 2020 launched an interdisciplinary outreach campaign, Reaching Every Californian. The campaign amplifies basic protections and builds pathways to impacted populations so that workers and employers understand legal protections and obligations, and the Labor Commissioners enforcement procedures. Californians can follow the Labor Commissioner on Facebook and Twitter.

Contact: Communications@dir.ca.gov, (510) 286-1161
Ankrom Moisan

Duong

Ankrom Moisan, a firm specializing in integrated architectural, interior design, planning, and brand, has hired Hao Duong as a healthcare principal. Duong will be amplifying the business development strategy and overseeing project delivery for AM's healthcare sector in Washington and Oregon. Duong's recent projects included supporting the work of Odessa Brown Children's Clinic, Neighborcare, and Grady Health System in revealing how the built environment can support their efforts to eliminate health disparities through education and social justice. He has worked with clients of varying scales including New York University, Nationwide Children's, University of Washington, Virginia Mason, UCSF, and Seattle Children's. Duong received a B.S. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Masters of Architecture from the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee. Ankrom Moisan was founded in 1983, and today has offices in Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco.




Nautilus

Hall

Nautilus, a leader in personalized connected home fitness, announced that Kelley Hall, senior vice president and chief financial officer at Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), and Shailesh Prakash, chief information officer and vice president of digital product development at The Washington Post have been appointed to its board of directors. Hall brings expertise leading financial strategy and managing omnichannel ecosystems at several leading companies, including REI, the nation's largest consumer co-operative. Prakash adds engineering and digital strategy experience and has led multiple digital growth transformations, including transitioning to and leveraging subscription business models. Prior to REI, Hall was senior vice president, chief accounting officer and treasurer for Nordstrom. Kelley also spent nine years at NIKE, and was with Starbucks Corporation from 1994 to 2008 in a variety of finance leadership roles. Prakash began his career as a software engineer with several technology companies, including Sun Microsystems and Netscape, and Microsoft where he was a key member of the Bing search engine. Nautilus is headquartered in Vancouver, Washington.




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SEATTLE  An older nine-unit apartment building at 824 N.W. 52nd St. sold for a little over $2.2 million, according to King County records.

The buyer was Greenbuild Development LLC, which with B9 Architects is planning a 22-unit townhouse project.





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Louth County Library is set to host a series of lectures and panel discussions on partition as part of the Decade of Centenaries, with the Border 100 programme being launched late last week.

Dr Thomas Tormey, Louth County Council Historian, has brought local, national and international historians together to deliver a series of virtual lectures and panel discussions on the foundation of Northern Ireland, partition and the experience of minorities and border communities in Ireland between 1918 and 2023.

There will also be individual talks on the role of women; the role of the labour movement and the experience of nationalists and unionists on both sides of the border.

Speakers at the event include Dexter Govan, Donal Hall, Mary Harris, Roisin Healy, Leeann Lane, Eunan OHalpin, Colin Reid, Peter Rigney, Brian Hanley, Ian Dalton and Tim Wilson.

The event itself was launched by Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, Cllr Pio Smith and Chief Executive Joan Martin, with Cllr Smith congratulating the library service on their work curating projects for the centenary.

The full programme of events is available to view live or at a later date by registering on the Crowdcast platform. Details of the talks and times they are on at can be found at www.crowdcast.io/louthlibraryservice.
Portlaoise native and famous actor Robert Sheehan revealed he broke into a pumpkin farm in Killarney last week while on a holiday to county Kerry.

Speaking on the Late Late Show, Robert was promoting his new book Disappearing Act, a collection of short stories that are 'satirical of self-talk' when he made the revelation.

Killarney Pumpkin Farm is located on the outskirts of Killarney in County Kerry and features a pumpkin patch that caught the attention of the Love/Hate actor last week.

Robert said he drove into the pumpkin farm and saw locked gates and signs saying 'Keep Out' and 'Trespassers will be prosecuted'

Speaking to Ryan Tubridy, he said: "I thought it was best to ask forgiveness than permission.

"I snuck in, there were pumpkins everywhere, a corn maze, a horror bus, a beautiful display for the children and I stole 2 pumpkins."

Robert clarified that he left a 20 euro note in return for the pumpkins and brought them back for his aunt, niece, and nephew at home.

He sent a message to the pumpkin farm on Instagram and he said he was 'hugely sorry for ignoring their keep out signs' and he was 'sorry for being cheeky'

Killarney Pumpkin Farm said not many others would get away with breaking and entering and asked if anyone wanted to see the 'funny CCTV footage'.

After much attraction online, the pumpkin farm uploaded the CCTV footage which gained a great reaction from everyone across Ireland.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Killarney Pumpkin Farm (@killarneypumpkinfarm)

Robert Sheehan is originally from Portlaoise and has found major success in his acting career overseas. He has starred in Irish-made Love/Hate, Misfits, and The Umbrella Academy. He has recently written a collection of short stories called Disappearing Act.
For more than 90 years, The Eagle-Tribune Santa Fund has assisted those in need in the Merrimack Valley through generous contributions from businesses, organizations and individuals. This year the need is as great as ever.

Contribute
Brcko District in northern Bosnia and Herzegovina will scale up urban regeneration

Green Cities to help Brcko become a greener city

Action plan and trigger for Brcko supported by Italy and Austria

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Developments (EBRD) fast-expanding 3 billion urban sustainability programme, EBRD Green Cities, is growing in Bosnia and Herzegovina with Brcko city pledging to join the programme. The district in the north of the country faces serious environmental challenges which the programme will facilitate to address.

Esed Kadric, the mayor of Brcko District, and Manuela Naessl, EBRD Head of Bosnia and Herzegovina signed a memorandum of understanding today which facilitates the cooperation between the district and the Bank in the field of urban sustainable infrastructure investments.

EBRD Green Cities already includes over 50 cities across the regions where the Bank invests. The programme is especially strong in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where Banja Luka, Sarajevo and Zenica already signed up to it.

Ms Naessl said: The environmental challenges in Bosnia and Herzegovina are significant and include high air pollution, low energy and water efficiency as well as a lack of public transport options. We are glad that we are already working with several municipalities and cantons to address some of these issues. EBRD Green Cities offers tangible support to cities to improve their environmental performance and at the same time also improve the quality of peoples lives. We are very happy that Brcko will soon benefit from this programme too.

As a first step, the EBRD will work with Brcko on identifying sustainable investments. This will include areas such as solid waste management, water and wastewater, urban transport, district heating and the energy efficiency of public buildings. Identifying priority investments and the development of an action plan for Brcko is supported with donor funds from Austria and Italy.

A trigger investment in Brcko is the planned construction of a main water transmission pipeline. It will regulate water pressure across the urban area and bring better quality water service to the citys inhabitants, while reducing water losses and saving energy. The city hopes to complete the financing for this project in 2021.

EBRD Green Cities was launched in 2016 to address the enormous environmental challenge urban conurbations represent. Cities, which account for 70 per cent of energy use and 80 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions in the world, are a big opportunity to tackle climate change and environmental degradation. This is particularly true of cities in the EBRD regions, where obsolete urban infrastructure diminishes the quality of life of citizens, increasing greenhouse gas emissions, and preventing communities from adapting to climate change.

EBRD Green Cities has won support from multi-lateral donors and attracted significant levels of co-finance, expanding the number of cities that can be supported and further raising the level of ambition. Because of its success and high demand the programme recently has been expanded to a financing volume of 3 billion.
5 million loan to Erste Bank Serbia for on-lending to local SMEs

Loans to small and medium size businesses to boost competitiveness

EU grants to make financing more affordable

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is extending a 5 million loan to Erste Bank Serbia to support the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country.

The funding, which will be channelled by Erste Bank to local SMEs, will support local small businesses to reach best industry standards and implement European Union (EU) directives. The aim is to encourage SMEs to invest in upgrades in three key areas: environmental protection, health and safety and product quality.

Participating SMEs will also have access to tailor-made advice and know-how for introducing and implementing standards and directives to make them more competitive in EU markets. They will also benefit from grant incentives worth up to 15 per cent of the total loan amount on successful project completion. Advisory support and grants are both funded by the European Union.

The credit line is part of a wider EBRD-EU initiative, which encourages SMEs across the Western Balkans to invest in projects that improve their competitiveness in local and external markets.

The programme is implemented in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy of Serbia. In close coordination with the Ministry of Economy, the European Union has approved an additional 10 million in Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) funding for the EBRD's SME Competitiveness Programme in the country.

Aleksandra Vukosavljevic, EBRD Director, Financial Institutions, Western Balkans and Eastern Europe, said: We are very pleased to step up our support for SMEs in Serbia together with our long-standing partner Erste Bank Serbia. The new funding will facilitate access to well-structured finance for small businesses, helping them to become more competitive and allow them to integrate better into regional and European value chains.

Slavko Caric, Chairman of the Executive Board of Erste Bank Serbia, stated: Small and medium-sized enterprises are the growth engine of economic development and therefore we are very glad that, thanks to the partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, we will be able to provide them with easier access to finance in order to improve their business. Funds from this credit line are intended for existing and potential clients who want to harmonize their products and services with the standards of the European Union and implement EU directives, which will enable them to be competitive in that market as well. "

Emanuele Giaufret, Head of the EU Delegation to Serbia, stated: EU-funded projects in Serbia promote job creation, economic and technological development and legislative framework improvement, all of which contribute to an improved economic landscape. The businesses themselves of course also benefit from our assistance and this programme is just another proof of this since it is boosting SME competitiveness and trade capacity through compliance with priority EU Directives in environmental, occupational health and safety as well as product quality and safety standards. We are glad to be partnering with the banks to empower the businesses and to help them to access capital.

Erste Bank Serbia is a fully owned subsidiary of Erste Bank Group. The bank sees serving the SME sector as a strategic target in creating sustainable growth.

The EBRD is a leading institutional investor in Serbia. The Bank has invested more than 6.9 billion across 293 projects in the country to date. The EBRD is focusing on private-sector development, improving public utility services and the overall transition to a green economy.
With the introduction of a new corporate governance code, published today, the Macedonian Stock Exchange is taking another significant step towards the adoption of European standards on local capital markets.

The code was developed jointly by the Macedonian Stock Exchange (MSE) and the Securities and Exchange Commission of North Macedonia, with support from experts at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Developments (EBRD) Legal Transition Team. The technical cooperation project was financed by Luxembourg.

The code applies to companies with shares listed on the official market of the MSE that meet the criteria set out in the listing rules. These companies will be required to report annually on whether they have followed the practices in the code. As in other European countries with capital markets of a similar size and structure, North Macedonias new code applies an approach known as comply or explain.

This approach allows companies not to apply a particular standard  for example, one that may not be feasible due to the companys size or structure  provided they explain to shareholders and the market why they have chosen to do so. All other listed companies that do not meet the criteria of the listing rule are encouraged to report voluntarily on how they implement the code.

The goal of the new corporate governance code is to support the successful development of local companies. Effective governance can improve a companys performance in a number of ways, the code says, citing the skills, diversity and experience of supervisory and management board members, strong operational control systems and policy transparency as examples. The code also introduces for the first time principles and provisions on corporate sustainability, as well as the environmental and social impact of their operations.

Ivan Steriev, CEO of the MSE, said: The new code of corporate governance of the Macedonian Stock Exchange not only replaces the current regulation, but redefines and enlarges the scope of listed companies to which the code is addressed and replicates best international corporate governance practices. The code is a strategic milestone for the entire market, as it is a comprehensive roadmap towards good corporate reputations and the sustainable long-term development of companies. It will have positive implications not just for the capital market of North Macedonia, but the wider community as well.

Nora Aliti, President of the Securities and Exchange Commission, added: Efficient, resilient and fair capital markets are built on a range of foundations. One very important building block is good corporate governance. The new code provides a robust framework of good rules and standards that set the expectations and boundaries of listed companies, which will result in sufficient disclosure to allow investors to make informed decisions. As regulators, we are confident that the new corporate governance code has the right balance between encouraging growth and providing for a suitable level of investor protection.

Andi Aranitasi, EBRD Head of North Macedonia, said: "We are delighted to support the MSE and the Securities and Exchange Commission in developing a new code of corporate governance. We are very pleased that the code sets robust and modern standards to promote the further development of the capital market in North Macedonia. We would like to thank the MSE and the Commission for their open and proactive cooperation and Luxembourg for its generous support of this initiative. The EBRD will continue to support the authorities in establishing a reporting and monitoring framework associated with the new code and motivating firms to build their governance practices around the codes provisions."

Since 1995, the Macedonian Stock Exchange has been providing a transparent, secure, cost-effective and efficient marketplace for equities, along with capital market services to meet the needs of investors, issuers and stakeholders. It currently lists 96 companies, with a total market capitalisation of more than 3.4 billion.

The Securities and Exchange Commission of North Macedonia is an independent and autonomous agency charged with the regulation and supervision of the securities market and its participants and with the protection of investors.

The EBRD regards the development of local capital markets as one of its priorities. Local capital markets provide a reliable source of funding, contributing to financial resilience and sustainable growth. The EBRD aims to strengthen local capital markets and to encourage the use of local currencies in the countries where it invests. In its operations, the EBRD combines investment with policy engagement and advisory services to help deliver successful reforms.
By David Young, PA

A Belfast nightclub manager has expressed concerns about having to police Covid entry checks in the absence of a mandatory passport system in Northern Ireland.

Sean Duffy, general manager of Love & Death in the city centre, said he feels Stormont is passing the buck on to the nightclub sector ahead of the planned reopening on October 31st.

The Executive has advised venues to introduce their own Covid entry checks but has stopped short of bringing in a mandatory system similar to the one operating in the Republic.

A Digital Covid Certificate Checker on a mobile phone is used to check the validity of a Digital Covid Passport in Dublin (Niall Carson/PA)

The issue has divided the administration, with the SDLP and Alliance Party calling for legally enforceable Covid passports for nightlife venues.

Work is continuing on developing an official certification system for Northern Ireland but DUP First Minister Paul Givan and deputy First Minister Michelle ONeill have insisted they do not want to compel the sector to enforce mandatory checks at this point, preferring a partnership approach.

Meanwhile, the British Medical Association has questioned whether the reopening of nightclubs should even go ahead as scheduled, given the continuing high rates of Covid-19 transmission in the community and the mounting pressures on the health service.

Mr Duffy said his venue has yet to make a decision on whether to make proof of vaccination or Covid status a requirement of entry from Sunday.

I think if we do decide to its going be very tough to police, he told the PA news agency.

Do our security staff do it, do I do it, do I get a medical professional in to do it, who does it? Are the guys up on the hill going to come down and show us how to do it?

Mr Duffy said he has concerns about the concept of customers having to prove vaccination status on entry, but added that if such a system is to operate it should be a legal requirement.

It feels a little bit of passing the buck almost, he said of the Executives approach.

I was in Dublin a few weeks ago and Covid passports or certification scans down there work very, very well and are very easy  very, very quick to get in and out.

Open to abuse

He said an unregulated system will be open to abuse.

I dont think it should be forced on the industry that has been first to close and last to open to enforce them (to ask) Are you vaccinated, are you not vaccinated?

Its just going to cause a bottleneck, its going to cause disruption.

Mr Duffy added: If someone comes in without a mask and says Sorry, Im exempt from it, how do I challenge them? Legally, I cant.

So how do we do the same with Covid tests?

I could take a Covid test, for talks sake, and it be negative and hand it to someone else (to show at the door). It would be false proof but on a point of contact its proof.

Is it a picture? Do they bring it with them? Is it a certification that comes with the NI gov app? How do we check? I think its a real tough one to police.

Sean Duffy, general manager of Love & Death nightclub, prepares for the return of dancing on Sunday (Liam McBurney/PA)

Mr Duffy said he feels Stormont has provided clarity on other reopening mitigations, such as where masks should be worn.

He also acknowledged that ministers have had a tough time navigating the pandemic and overall have done a fair enough job.

Love & Death has been able to operate as a bar since restrictions on the hospitality sector eased earlier in the year. However, social distancing has reduced capacity by almost half and customers have had to remain seated.

Those restrictions will all lift on Sunday and the upstairs part of the venue will be able to operate as a nightclub again for the first time since the start of the pandemic.

Mr Duffy said the sector has been hit hard by the Covid-19 emergency.

It really has had quite an impact on revenues, as most of our hospitality neighbours have had over the last 18 months as well, he said.

Its been a difficult trading time for us all.

When youre looking at venues closing down throughout the pandemic, bigger venues and more secure venues than an owner-operator venue like ourselves, then, yeah, the stress is always there to make sure the business gets from one week to the next, and that were viable to be open.

He added: Come Sunday I hope they come in their droves, I really do.

I think the whole way through the night its going be a super high that people are here enjoying themselves, our DJ is playing tunes, people are up again, giving them a real feel-good factor.

I havent had a dance in 18 months  it will be a happy time to see people up enjoying themselves 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.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T





"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.






Amick Farms in agreement to buy over poultry plant in Mississippi, US

Amick Farms, a subsidiary of OSI Group, has reached an agreement to acquire a poultry production complex in Laurel, Mississippi, the United States, from Wayne Farms LLC.

Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

Batesburg, South Carolina, US-based Amick Farms agreed to acquire the complex immediately, including live production, hatchery, feed mill, manufacturing and production facilities located in Laurel. Amick Farms is a leading producer of fresh and further processed poultry products.

Ben Harrison, president of Amick Farms, said the acquisition gives the company the opportunity and resources to grow with their customer base and develop new customer partners, provide more quality products and continue providing customer service excellence.

"We are excited to welcome the team members and growers in Laurel and surrounding communities to our family," Harrison said. "Growing our business is an ongoing goal of ours, and this transaction was the perfect opportunity to grow our Amick team."

Amick Farms currently operates two other vertically integrated facilities in South Carolina and Maryland, employing approximately 3,000 people.

Wayne Farms upgraded the Laurel facility in 2020 at a cost of roughly US$16.9 million. Upgrades included installation of automated equipment on its processing line.

In addition to the Laurel facility, Wayne Farms operates fresh processing plants in Albertville, Jack, Dothan, Union Springs and Decatur, Alabama, US; Danville, Arkansas, US; Pendergrass, Georgia, US; and Dobson, North Carolina, US. It also operates two further processing plants in Decatur, Alabama, US.

Wayne Farms operates 11 plants with approximately 10,000 employees.

- World Grain
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Bonfire builders asked not to burn hazardous materials

Bonfire builders on the Island are urged not to burn hazardous materials which can cause toxic smoke and pose a serious health risk to people and animals.



Although household bonfires are not illegal, it is an offence to burn domestic or commercial waste which should be disposed of safely at a local amenity site.



With bonfire night fast approaching, people are advised to use dry untreated wood and avoid materials such as plastics, rubber, tyres or anything containing foam or paint.



Under the Public Health Act 1990 bonfire smoke which affects the comfort of neighbours can also be considered a statutory nuisance.



Both the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) and the Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service (IoMFRS) are advising people to attend organised bonfire events.



Clare Barber MHK, Minister for DEFA, said: Anyone planning a bonfire should always consider what they burn for their own safety and that of their neighbours, pets and wildlife.



Kevin Groom, the Islands Chief Fire Officer, added: Fire is unpredictable and a small fire can spread quickly under the right conditions endangering both life and property. We strongly advise against having your own bonfire, but to consider attending an organised event where you can relax and enjoy the evening.



Anyone building a bonfire at home should inform the Emergency Services Joint Control Room about their plans by calling 697327.
GE (NYSE: GE) wind turbine technology is making its debut in Estonia, one of Europes most promising wind sectors, by supplying 18 wind turbines for the Paldiski Wind Farm. Located in northwestern Estonia near the city of Paldiski on the Parki peninsula, the wind farm will be operated by Eesti Energia AS and Nelja Energia OU. Each operator is buying nine turbines from GE. In addition, the Paldiski wind farm will be supported by a 10-year full service agreement from GE to ensure successful operation.

The 2.5-100 wind turbine is a product of GEs evolution in the wind industry and is a leader in the multi-megawatt wind sector

Through the Paldiski Wind Farm, Eesti Energia AS and Nelja Energia OU will add 45 megawatts of clean energy to the Estonian grid. The project supports the Estonian governments initiative to expand the countrys renewable energy supply, as well as Eesti Energias long-term strategy of reducing CO2 emissions.

The 2.5-100 wind turbine is a product of GEs evolution in the wind industry and is a leader in the multi-megawatt wind sector, said Stephan Ritter, general manager, GE Renewable Energy Europe. The higher efficiency, increased reliability, improved ease of maintenance and seamless grid integration features of the 2.5-100 make it an excellent fit for Estonias robust wind conditions. This machine produces one of the highest annual energy yields in its class, creating more value for our customers.

The 10-year full service agreement will provide both operators for the Paldiski project with GEs most comprehensive operation and maintenance support, which includes advanced anomaly detection, unplanned maintenance and an availability guarantee. GE is scheduled to begin shipping the turbines in spring 2012, with commercial operation of the complete project expected in 2012.

Thanks to strong winds coming off the Baltic Sea, Estonia enjoys significant potential for wind power development, and the Estonian Wind Power Association (EWPA) has identified wind as the countrys leading resource for renewable energy. At the end of 2010, Estonia had 149 megawatts of installed wind capacity, with about 570 megawatts of new wind projects currently in development.
Sandra Ellen Dunn Locke of Elkmont, Alabama, passed away at Cape Canaveral Hospital on October 31, 2021. She was a loving and caring wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. Sandra is survived by her husband, Anthony Locke and their daughter, Ashley Norman; her son, Andrew Tybergh
Ahmaud Arbery's father, Marcus Arbery, bottom center, listens to Jason Vaughn speak during a memorial walk and candlelight vigil for Ahmaud at the Satilla Shores development, in Brunswick, Ga. The judge and attorneys trying to seat a jury in the trial over Ahmaud Arbery's killing aren't finding many jury pool members who are blank slates in the case.
At its annual Max conference, Adobe detailed some enhancements that are coming to its Lightroom and Lightroom Classic software suites . To start, the company is introducing a re-envisioned set of selective adjustment tools. Set to make their way to all devices where you can access Lightroom and Lightroom Classic, the tools are accessible via a newly added masking button. Much like you can do in Photoshop, they allow you to create multiple masks, including color and luminance ones. In turn, those will allow you to make precise adjustments to specific parts of a photo.

Adobe

Of course, individually masking elements of an image can be time-consuming, and so Adobe is also introducing an AI-powered tool that can automatically detect the select the subject and sky in your photos. In addition to rolling out to Lightroom Classic and Lightroom on Mac and PC, this is coming to select Android and iOS devices. And thats where Adobe envisions it being the most useful since it should help with editing on a smaller screen.

If you like to start your edits with a preset, a new recommendation engine in Lightroom for Mac, Windows and mobile will suggest ones based on the subject of your photos. The presets will come from the Lightroom community, so you can expect to find hundreds of thousands, according to the company. Additionally, Adobe is introducing eight new premium presets, adding to the seven it released previously. Those are available to use in all versions of Lightroom.

Adobe

To make cropping easier on Lightroom for Mac and Windows, Adobe has added the option to select a variety of overlays for different aspect ratios. Some of the options on this front include thirds, golden ratio and diagonal.

Lastly, the company is introducing a new feature in Lightroom for Mac and Windows called Community Remix. It allows you to upload a photo edit and invite other photographers to take it in a different direction. Adobe says it plans to bring Community Remix to other versions of Lightroom in the future.

Adobe says it will begin rolling out all of the above updates starting today. They should become available to everyone by the end of the week. At its Adobe Max conference, the company also detailed updates for Fresco, Photoshop and other apps.
At the start of 2021, Sony introduced the $2,500 Xperia Pro. It was a phone the company made for video professionals. Now, Sony is back with a second professional-grade smartphone designed to appeal to photography enthusiasts. The headline feature of the Xperia Pro-I is a 1-inch sensor borrowed from the company's RX100 VII point-and-shoot camera. That's a much larger sensor than you'll find on most phones.

To put things in perspective, the primary sensor on the Pixel 6 Pro features a pixel pitch of 1.2m. By contrast, the main sensor on the Pro-I has 2.4m-sized pixels, making it much better in low light. It can also shoot 12-bit RAW files and native 4K video at 120 frames per second with eye-detection auto-focus. Speaking of auto-focus, it comes with 315 points that cover 90 percent of the frame.

The Pro-I also includes one of Sony's BIONZ X imaging processors, giving it the ability to shoot up to 20 frames per second with both auto-focus and auto-exposure enabled. The fast readout speed of the sensor allows it to avoid a rolling shutter effect, a feature Sony says helps the Pro-I stand out from other phones with 1-inch sensors like the Mi 11 Ultra. Those handsets also don't have phase-detection autofocus like the Pro-I does.

Complimenting the 1-inch sensor is a 24mm lens made from glass that can switch between f/2.0 and f/4.0 apertures. Sony went with an aspherical design to make the optics as small as possible. Flanking the primary camera is a 16mm ultrawide camera and a 50mm telephoto camera. Sony says it chose that lens arrangement after consulting with photographers who told the company they wanted a setup that matched their collection of prime lenses.

Once you get past its camera, the Xperia Pro-I is essentially a souped-up Xperia 1 III. Internally, the phone features a Snapdragon 888 supported by 12GB of RAM and 512GB of internal storage. You can add up to 1TB of additional storage with the help of a microSD card. Powering everything is a 4,500mAh battery Sony claims will allow you to use the Pro-I for a full day on a single charge. Inside the box is a 30W power adapter that can charge the phone to 50 percent in 30 minutes.

The Pro-I also features the same 6.5-inch OLED that came on the Xperia 1 III. It's a 4K display with a 120Hz refresh rate and 21:9 aspect ratio. On the audio front, the Pro-I not only comes with a 3.5mm headphone jack, but it also includes Sony's LDAC and DSEE technologies.

All of those capabilities come with a hefty price tag. In the US, Sony plans to sell the Xperia Pro-I for the eye-watering price of $1,800. The way the company sees it, you're effectively getting a flagship phone and RX100 VII for less than the price of buying those devices separately. However, the Xperia Pro-I isn't a one-to-one replacement for the RX100 VII. Sony's point-and-camera outputs images at 20.1-megapixel, using the full readout from its sensor. The Pro-I uses a crop because taking advantage of the entire sensor would necessitate a much larger lens than would be feasible to include on a smartphone.

Pre-orders for the Xperia Pro-I open on October 28th, with general availability to follow in December.
Home Depot and Best Buy have pulled the products of Chinese tech surveillance makers linked to human rights abuses from their shelves, according to TechCrunch. Both US retail giants have stopped selling products from Lorex and Ezviz, while Lowe's no longer carries products by the former. Lorex is a subsidiary of Dahua Technology, whereas Ezviz is a surveillance tech brand owned by Hikvision. As TechCrunch explains, the US government added Dahua and Hikvision to its economic blacklist in 2019 for their role in the mass surveillance of Uighur Muslims in the province of Xinjiang.

Earlier this year, Los Angeles Times published a report detailing how the facial recognition software developed by Lorex owner Dahua was being shopped to law enforcement as a way to identify Uyghurs. A user guide for the service apparently touts its capability to identify people passing in front of its cameras by race. Meanwhile, Hikvision's cameras have been installed at mosques and detention camps in Xinjiang, according to a 2019 New York Times report. Maya Wang, a China researcher for Human Rights Watch, told the publication back then: "These systems are designed for a very explicit purpose  to target Muslims."

In a report on the human rights practices in China, the US Department of State said that the Chinese government "conducted mass arbitrary detention of Uyghurs, ethnic Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, and members of other Muslim and ethnic minority groups in Xinjiang. China Human Rights Defenders alleged these detentions amounted to enforced disappearance, since families were often not provided information about the length or location of the detention." Human rights groups believe over a million Uyghurs are being detained in internment camps, but China continues to deny the allegations.

It's unclear why the retail giants have decided to pull Lorex and Ezviz products now, but consumers have freely been able to buy their security cameras over the past couple of years after their parent companies were placed in the US economic blacklist. Home Depot told TechCrunch that it's "committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical sourcing and [it] immediately stopped selling products from Lorex when this was brought to [the company's] attention." Best Buy simply told the publication that it was discontinuing its relationship" with both Lorex and Ezviz.
After introducing the $80 YubiKey Bio and $85 YubiKey C Bio at the start of the month, Yubicos latest physical security is for those who want a no-frills option. At $29 or 29, the Security Key C NFC comes with almost everything you could want from a security key at a decent price. As the name suggests, its a USB-C key with NFC support built-in. Out of the box, it works with FIDO-compatible websites and services. That includes major platforms like Google, Twitter and Facebook. Yubico also claims its the most durable security key on the market. What you won't find here is support for legacy authentication platforms, but for most consumers that shouldn't matter too much.

If you're not familiar with physical security keys, they're one of the most effective ways to protect your privacy and security when used to add two-factor authentication to your online accounts. In 2018, Google reduced successful phishing attacks on its 85,000 employees to zero thanks to a policy that mandated their use. The Security Key C NFC is available to buy today from Yubicos website. The company also offers a USB-A version that costs $25.
Those in attendance at Operation Yellow Ribbon's ribbon-tying ceremony were asked  nay, challenged  to show their support for Americas combat veterans, service members and first responders by tying yellow strands of ribbon throughout town  on cars, utility poles, trees, fences, storefronts and the like.
The Pound US Dollar (GBP/USD) exchange rate has slipped this morning after firming overnight, despite the current risk-on mood.

The downside in the Pound comes as economic and Covid concerns could delay a Bank of England (BoE) rate hike decision, while the US Dollar (USD) is supported by rising bond yields.

Pound (GBP) Exchange Rates Fall as November Rate Hike Looks Less Likely

The Pound initially climbed against the US Dollar this morning, supported by the upbeat market mood, but then lost its gains amid a lack of UK data.

With no new economic reports out today, GBP investors may be mulling over Fridays mixed releases.

UK retail sales unexpectedly fell by 0.2% in September, signalling a record-breaking fifth consecutive month of declining domestic sales.

The UKs PMIs initially seemed more positive, printing above expectations, but they came with caveats. While the manufacturing PMI printed at 57.7 overall, factory output in the UK slowed to near stagnation at 50.6 (the 50-point mark separates contraction from expansion).

The services PMI fared much better, indicating strong growth, but together the PMIs revealed that the UKs economic rebound is lopsided.

In addition, Chris Williamson, Chief Business Economist at IHS Markit, which co-conducted the PMIs, highlighted the fact that rising UK Covid cases could significantly dent the UK services sector in the coming months. Williamson said:

The service sector is clearly in something of a sweet spot as the UK has seen more peoples lives and livelihoods return closer to normal. Some of the growth momentum will therefore fade as this rebound passes. Moreover, rising COVID-19 case numbers pose a downside risk to growth in the coming months, potentially deterring some services-oriented activity among consumers in particular and potentially leading to the renewed enforcement of health restrictions as winter draws in.

Following this data, some traders have lowered their expectations for a BoE rate hike in the central banks policy meeting next week. This, in turn, has undermined the Pound, which is currently softening against USD.

US Dollar (USD) Exchange Rates Firm as US Bonds Rise

The safe-haven US Dollar, meanwhile, is managing to firm against Sterling, despite the risk-positive market sentiment.

A key factor driving the upside in USD seems to be a rise in US bond yields. The ten-year Treasury note has climbed from 1.641% to highs of 1.665% today, thereby boosting the Greenback.

In addition, expectations that the Federal Reserve will tighten monetary policy at its meeting next week are also acting as a tailwind for the US Dollar.

On Friday, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that he thinks it is time for the central bank to begin winding down its pandemic-era stimulus by tapering bond purchases. Powell added:

Our policy is well positioned to manage a range of plausible outcomes. We need to watch, and watch carefully, and see if the economy is evolving consistent with our expectations, and adapt policy accordingly.

This suggests that the Fed is maintaining a level of flexibility that may help it avoid a policy error.

The Fed had previously signalled that a tapering decision was likely to happen in November or December, with the former now looking more probable. Many analysts believe that the sooner the Fed starts to taper, the sooner it will raise rates.

This is therefore supporting the Greenback today, but the currencys gains may be capped by the risk-on market mood.

Indebted Chinese property giant Evergrande managed to avoid a default on Friday, finding the funds for a missed interest payment. In addition, the company has announced that it is restarting work on ten projects and will be focusing on its electric-vehicle unit in the future  two developments that have cheered investors.

This positive news in the Evergrande saga, which has rattled markets over the last month, has buoyed markets and driven an increased appetite for risk. As such, the safe-haven US Dollars appeal may be limited.

GBP/USD Exchange Rate Forecast: BoE Tenreyro Speech to Dent Sterling?

Looking ahead, risk appetite could continue to play a part in GBP/USD today. If market sentiment sours then USD may be able to make some meaningful gains against the Pound.

In addition, a speech from the BoE policymaker Silvana Tenreyro could also dent Sterling. Tenreyro is one of the more dovish rate-setters in the banks Monetary Policy Committee (MPC). Following Fridays mixed data and considering the UKs rising Covid case rate, Sterling may be sensitive to Tenreyros remarks.
From: Gary Zuercher Photographer & Author of 'The Glow of Paris - The Bridges of Paris at Night' Washington , DC Monday, October 25, 2021



Gary Zuercher, Author of The Glow of Paris: The Bridges of Paris at Night, Ends Exhibition with Fund Raiser Evansville, INThe Evansville Indiana Museum of Arts, History & Science is holding a virtual fund raiser in conjunction with Gary Zuercher, award winning photographer and author of The Glow of Paris: The Bridges of Paris at Night, at 6:00 pm CST on Saturday, November 6, 2021. Highlights from the evening feature a behind the scenes tour of the museum's photography exhibition featuring Zuercher's stunning photographs of Paris, an exclusive artist interview with Gary, a champagne demonstration by Jane Owen and a live auction hosted by Tim Black and Scott Wylie. Proceeds will benefit the museum's educational mission and 2022 initiative, The Zip Code Neighbors Project, which provides reduced or free admission to households, after-school youth organizations, and schools within the neighborhood's 47713 zip code. For more info about the event go to https://events.readysetauction.com/evansvillemuseumartsscience/parisatnight Zuercher spent five years photographing the 35 bridges over the Seine River at night during the winter months and another year researching the history of the bridges, gathering anecdotes, printing and assembling the prints. The Evansville Indiana Museum of Arts, History & Science is located at: 411 SE Riverside Dr, Evansville, IN 47713. For hours and more information visit the website at: https://emuseum.org or call 812-425-2406. Watch an Interview with Gary Zuercher on his book, photography and the exhibition at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=03DB41Dsiys



The Glow of Paris book is an eclectic collection of extraordinary gelatin-silver photographic prints of the bridges of Parisnighttime images that are breathtaking. Accompanied by a fascinating historical portrayal, the book presents a unique and aesthetic vision of Paris because no one else has ever photographed and written about the bridges that cross the Seine in this way. The Glow of Paris Exhibition features 86 silver gelatin, black and white photographs from the book, accompanied by maps showing the Seine River bridge locations, discussions of the bridge histories, story panels, a four-minute video and a cell phone audio tour through the exhibit. Of Zuercher's work, the Columbus Dispatch said, "His style is reminiscent of American landscape photographer Ansel Adams."

The Virginia Peninsula Daily Press said, "The photographs are just so visually splendid, . . . it's almost like you've pre-staged artwork because it is lit by the City of Paris."

The New York Times said of Zuercher, ". . . a lifelong photographer, was so passionate about the way the bridges look at night that he spent more than five years photographing them in black and white"

The Mansfield New Journal said, "Zuercher's 86 black and white photos bring into focus the beauty of the 35 bridges that span the Seine River in the City of Light." "For the most part Parisians take these architectural wonders for granted, relying on their functionality to get them where they want to go each day," says author Zuercher. "They don't appreciate the beauty because most don't see the glow of the bridges at night. And most have forgotten that from the time of Julius Caesar for more than 2000 years, the bridges of Paris have played an important role in world history." View The Glow of Paris Exhibition Video at https://www.ParisBridges.com



Here are just a few of the accolades bestowed upon The Glow of Paris: The Bridges of Paris at Night IPPY Gold Medal  "a dreamy new take on the 35 bridges that span the Seine."

Kirkus ProConnect named The Glow of Paris, " THIS WEEK'S BOOK TO DISCOVER "

The High End Magazine featured The Glow of Paris in a four page article.

Southern Season Magazine featured a full page review of the book in its Spring Edition

The Glow of Paris- was the Number One best seller on Amazon.com , in its category multiple times since publication date.

Apogee Photo Magazine says, "This book should definitely be a part of the library of any architect, historian or photographer. Simply stunning!" The London Book Festival and The Los Angeles Book Festival proclaimed The Glow of Paris one of the best books in the photography/art category in the 2015 competitions. Independent Publisher Book Awards bestowed a Gold Medal First Place award for Best Non-Fiction in Europe. Kirkus Reviews called The Glow of Paris one of "Nine Best Books Out This Week." (Jan 20) and further stated: "A superb pictorial evocation of the City of Light, full of dazzling images and intriguing lore." The fascinating narrative that accompanies the artistic black and white photos includes historical facts and little-known tidbits about the bridges, such as: The history of these bridges precede the birth of Christ. In 52 BC Julius Caesar conquered Paris; the earliest recorded mention of the bridges is found in Caesar's Gallic War commentaries. Most of the later history evolves from around the time of the Middle Ages and thereafter.

On the morning of October 3, 1943, an aircraft hit the Pont de Tolbiac Bridge and crashed into the Seine, killing the four Frenchmen on board. The four were members of the Free French Air Force who had flown from an airfield in England to participate in the allied bombing of a power station outside of Paris.

Bridges constructed prior to the late eighteenth century normally had houses and shops built directly on them. Floods, ice floes, fires, boat collisions, and structural failures frequently destroyed the bridges. The collapsing bridges took the houses and shops down with them, and often their occupants as well. In 1769 Louis XV finally outlawed the construction of houses on the bridges, but it took until 1808 for the last building to be removed.

Early on, the Pont Neuf was the center of a permanent fair, a meeting point for all the sophisticated as well as the vulgar pleasures of the capital. At any moment you would find street performersacrobats, fire-eaters, and musicians charlatans and quacks, as well as hustlers and pickpockets, not to mention a lively trade in prostitution. Among the many businesses were several famous "tooth pullers." "This information will be of great interest to not only tourists and historians but also to Parisians who have limited knowledge of the 35 bridges in their city and are surprised at the number of islands in the Seine," says Zuercher. "There is a great deal of truth in the words of author Monique Marty who wrote of the bridges  'They are the extension of the streets, the hyphens between the two river banks. We cross them on foot, by car, by Metro. We see them without looking at them and that's a shame'." Zuercher, an artist in the darkroom as well as behind the lens, lives half a year in Paris and the other half in Washington, D.C. He develops the film into negatives in Paris and then makes the prints in the D.C. darkroom. Often he would make 20 to 30 prints before coming up with just the right photo for his book. The results of his work prove what was written by Ansel Adams, "The negative is like the score of the music and the print is like the performance." The stories related to the project are rich enough to fill another book, such as the time he was refused access to a church roof to photograph an aerial shot because he could not be there while the nuns were sleeping. Or when he had to use mountain climbing equipment and the aid of city firefighters to climb to the top of city hall to shoot seven bridges from the air. Or when young thugs threatened him while Zuercher was working at night but were defused when he offered to take their pictures and email it to them. The Glow of Paris: The Bridges of Paris at Night (ISBN 978-0-9906309-0-6, Marcorp Editions, 2015 , 208 pages, $49.95 is available on Amazon and at: www.marcorp-editions.com). About Gary Zuercher: Gary Zuercher's career path has been quite different than that of most professional photographers because he has simultaneously combined a highly successful business career with a successful career as a professional photographer. He is also a commercial, multi-engine, instrument-rated pilot with more than 2,000 hours logged as pilot in command. For more than thirty years Zuercher provided photography for numerous companies and advertising agencies needing commercial images for publications, advertising, brochures, media, and marketing. During the same period Zuercher produced 15 company and product promotional films in which he worked as editor or co-editor and as cameraman and/or photographer. While doing this, he successfully founded, built, and developed both the WaveTek group of companies that pioneered the development of the waterpark industry and the Rain Drop Products company. WaveTek manufactured wave making machinery and waterslides for swimming pools, installing more than 160 wave pools worldwide. After the successful sale of WaveTek, Zuercher founded and built Rain Drop Products Inc., a firm that was one of the originators in the introduction and development of the Sprayground and water playground concepts into the public recreation marketplace. For his pioneering leadership in wave pools and Spraygrounds, Zuercher was awarded the Industry Leadership Award and was in the inaugural group of inductees into the World Waterpark Association Hall of Fame. Over a period of five years, Zuercher took his cameras out into the Parisian night to capture stunningly evocative images of the bridges that span the Seine. Using his artistic eye and sophisticated photographic technique, he created these glorious black-and- white photographs, rich with detail and possessing a clear, luminous quality. No one else has ever photographed all the bridges that cross the Seine in Paris in this way. We don't see crowds of people or heavy traffic. Nothing obscures the beauty and strength of the structures, the romance and symbolism of the bridges. Shooting in black and white allows the details to shine: the architectural elements, artwork, nearby buildings, trees on the riverbanks, and starry lamps casting paths of light across the water. Zuercher divides his time between homes in Paris and Washington, DC with his wife Dominique, who is French. Media Contact: For a review copy of The Glow of Paris or to arrange an interview with Gary Zuercher contact Scott Lorenz of Westwind Communications Book Marketing at scottlorenz@westwindcos.com or by phone at 248-705


From: Expert Click Radio -- Radio Interview Service For Immediate Release: Dateline: Georgetown , DC Monday, October 25, 2021

published on 2021-10-25T22:47:10Z Sanjay Prasad, Author of 'Resetting Healthcare Post-COVID-19 Pandemic,' on ShiftShapers Podcast: What do you do when your doctor recommends surgery to you or to a loved one? Do you question their decision? The answer for the vast majority of Americans is no. Most of us have been trained to trust our physicians completely. After all, theyre the experts. They should know best.In his new book, Resetting Healthcare: Post-COVID-19 Pandemic, The Patient Handbook, Dr. Sanjay Prasad examines the lack of transparency in surgical care and offers a solution to the problem: a new, innovative tool called SurgiQuality that connects patients with qualified surgeons, offering second and third opinions, and even suggesting more conservative, non-surgical solutions as appropriate. Dr. Prasad reveals that between 1020 percent of all surgeries in the US are unnecessary, either because of misdiagnosis or because a more conservative therapy may have been just as or even more effective. The referral process is the heart of the problem in surgical care, says Dr. Prasad. Patients are referred by their primary care doctor or emergency room physician to surgeons without concern for cost or outcome. Once told they need surgery, most patients are shocked, nervous, anxious, and scared. They feel they must trust the opinion of their physician without questioning anything.Dr. Prasad has been a practicing surgeon for nearly thirty years in the super-specialized field of otology, neurotology, and skull base surgery, a subspecialty within otolaryngology head and neck surgery (ENT). Prasad is one of the few surgeons in his specialty to complete three fellowships in neurotology, advanced head and neck oncologic surgery, and cranial base surgery. He is an assistant clinical professor at George Washington University and the founder of SurgiQuality and SurgiConnect. His thirty years as a surgeon has given him deep insight into the flaws in the surgery referral process.I founded SurgiQuality with the mission to connect surgical patients to best-in-class surgeons who operate in a cost-efficient environment, says Dr. Prasad. Using SurgiQuality, a personalized concierge hand-holds the patient from the moment they are told they need surgery all the way through recovery.The Covid-19 pandemic has reset how healthcare operates. In an age when technology and online visits have become mainstream, patients deserve to understand their options. They deserve to know that they are getting the best possible care.I want people to realize that we have a serious quality issue in medicine today, says Dr. Prasad. The healthcare system must be held accountable. I firmly believe that SurgiQuality plays a key role in helping patients regain control of the healthcare process, empowering them with the tools to make well-informed, health-positive decisions. Resetting Healthcare: Post-COVID-19 Pandemic, The Patient Handbook, ISBN-10: ?1737199416, ISBN-13: ?978-1737199410, Sanjay Prasad, MD, FACS, available at Amazon. Genre Science License: cc-by-nc-sa


The one-time president of a San Antonio finance company has pleaded guilty for his involvement in a scheme that allegedly defrauded investors of more than $800,000.

Larry Roberts faces up to 20 years in federal prison, as many as three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 fine after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud. His sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 20.

Roberts has agreed to pay restitution as part of his guilty plea. Federal prosecutors say the amount is about $853,000.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Richard Farrer accepted Roberts guilty plea earlier this month.

Mr. Larry Roberts has taken full responsibility for his actions pertaining to these charges, his attorney, Dante Dominguez, said in an email.

We look forward to putting all the evidence in front of the court, having faith that a just sentence will be given that makes Mr. Larry Roberts accountable for his actions and considers all circumstances surrounding the situation along with the levels of culpability he should face in relation to other actors, Dominguez added.

On ExpressNews.com: San Antonio-area father and son indicted in alleged Ponzi scheme

Roberts and his father, Earl Roberts Sr., each held the title of president of factoring firm Factac Inc. at various times, state corporate records show. A factoring company purchases invoices and accounts from other companies at a discount. It makes money on the difference between what it acquired the debts for and what the customers owe.

The pair were indicted on five charges of mail and wire fraud by a federal grand jury in November.

Chief U.S. District Judge Orlando Garcia this week set a plea deadline of Feb. 3 for Earl Roberts Sr. Hes scheduled to go to trial Feb.14 if he doesnt enter a plea.

Factac solicited investors to raise money to purchase invoices and receivables, promising a minimum annual return of 10 percent.

Earl Roberts Sr., 77, launched Factac in 2000. Larry Roberts, 51, had joined the business by 2012.

Around late 2016, Factac ceased factoring invoices and receivables in the volume necessary to support the returns promised to investors, according to Larry Roberts plea agreement.

Nevertheless, the plea says, Larry Roberts assisted his father in continuing to market Factac to new investors.

They told investors that Factac was still operating profitably and that it would pay 10 percent annual returns.

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Multiple people invested with Factac from December 2016 through February 2018. But instead of using that money to factor invoices and receivables, the father-and-son team used the money to pay back previous investors and for personal expenses.

Federal prosecutors referred to Factac as a Ponzi scheme because money from new investors was used to pay earlier investors. This was done so as not to arouse suspicion amongst investors about the status of their monies, the indictment stated.

Both men authorized the creation of fraudulent quarterly statements that allegedly showed the growth of investments under Factacs management, the indictment said.

Both men were released on a $10,000 unsecured bond following their indictment.

pdanner@express-news.net
Elon Musk personally banked $32.6 billion on Monday after Hertz announced it would order 100,000 Teslas and add the electric vehicles to its rental fleet by the end of 2022.

The deal increased Musks net worth to $288.6 billion as Teslas stock market value surged to more than $1 trillion.

Wild $T1imes! Musk, co-founder and CEO of Tesla, tweeted Monday afternoon.

In its announcement, Hertz said the EV rentals will account for more than 20 percent of its worldwide fleet.

A Hertz spokesperson said in email Tuesday that the EVs will be rolling out to at least 46 cities beginning in early November, including Austin, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.

The Florida-based rental car company, one of the worlds largest, said it has 195 locations in Texas and 14 in San Antonio, though it did not expand on the plans to start offering EVs to customers.

Bloomberg reported that electric-vehicle marker  whose headquarters is moving from Palo Alto, Calif., to Austin  could take in revenue of $4.2 billion from the Hertz deal. On Monday night, Musk said in a tweet, To be clear, cars sold to Hertz have no discount. Same price as to consumers.

Hertz did not say how much EV rentals would cost San Antonio customers.

The company said it would provide digitized guidance to educate customers about the Teslas and eventually offer an EV rental booking options via an app.

eric.killelea@express-news.net
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  What works and what doesnt when it comes to encouraging people to get vaccinated against COVID-19? A new study in North Carolina shows that offering $25 to people getting their first shot was an important factor, while long odds at a big lottery prize made little difference.

The study released on Monday examined a pilot program offering $25 to residents in four counties. Of the 401 vaccine recipients surveyed, more than two-fifths cited the prepaid cash cards as an important reason they went in for a shot.

Hispanic people, other racial minorities and residents making less than $40,000 a year were more likely than white and wealthier residents to view the cash cards as a key reason to get the vaccine, according to the report published online in JAMA Internal Medicine.

Roughly 1 in 11 respondents said they would not have come in for a COVID-19 shot if the $25 perk was not being offered at participating sites in Mecklenburg, Guilford, Rowan and Rockingham counties. About 1 in 7 people surveyed said they waited to get vaccinated until they learned they could get a cash card or other incentive.

With hundreds of millions of dollars being spent to accelerate COVID-19 vaccine uptake, these study findings suggest that this strategy for increasing vaccination merits greater investment, the authors wrote.

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services authored the study in collaboration with researchers at North Carolina Central University and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

After the pilot program ended in June, Gov. Roy Cooper and DHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen decided to offer a $100 financial reward and make the perk more widely available throughout the state.

Less successful, however, was North Carolina's rollout of a $4.5 million lottery package ultimately won by just eight residents. Four kids aged 12 to 17 who got vaccinated each qualified for $125,000 college scholarships, while four adults 18 or older each got $1 million before taxes.

Within the first two weeks of the state announcing the lottery in June, about 118,000 residents got their first shot, but weekly vaccination counts were flat throughout much of June and July before rising in late-July and early-August amid substantial spread of the more contagious delta variant.

These large but uncertain financial prizes benefit only a few lucky winners and do not broadly address access barriers to vaccination, the authors wrote, adding that financial rewards should be considered in conjunction with other methods to promote an equitable distribution of shots.

The latest data from the state health department shows eight consecutive weeks of weekly declines in the number of North Carolinians receiving a first dose. While more data is pending, numbers released on Monday show only 19,000 or so residents got their first COVID-19 shot last week, which represents the lowest weekly count to date.

State health officials ended their $100 vaccine reward in August. The incentives section of the NCDHHS website now directs visitors to find a nearby vaccine location.

___

Follow AP coverage of the virus outbreak at https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak.

___

Follow Anderson on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BryanRAnderson.

___

Anderson 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.
A Minnesota developer is looking to build a 192-unit apartment complex just outside Boerne city limits.

Kendall County Commissioners Court and Boerne City Council have backed Roers Companies proposal to seek a housing tax credit to help finance the project, which would sit on about 10 acres just west of Interstate 10.

The local endorsements mean the Minnetonka, Minn., firm can apply for the credit through the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs. The tax credits are for affordable multifamily projects.

On ExpressNews.com: 'Devastated': Artist behind the Esperanza development's massive rock pieces in Boerne dies

Competition for these credits is intense, and theres no telling how Roers application will fare.

Rents at the proposed complex would be restricted to 60 percent of the area median family income, likely ranging between $1,168 to $1,620 per month, depending on the apartment size.

Roers Companies

Last week, council members also approved a development agreement with property owners James L. Wyatt Jr. Property Management and the Mildred M. Wyatt Property Management Trust.

Roers plans to purchase the property at 36025 Interstate 10 West if the tax credit is approved. The development agreement approved by city council bars Boerne from annexing the land unless it has been purchased and developed.

The Boerne area is increasingly attractive to residential developers and out-of-town home buyers and renters. The citys population exploded between 2010 and 2019, up 71 percent to more than 18,000 residents, according to the U.S. Census.

Roers, owned by brothers Kent and Brian Roers, has developed numerous apartment projects across the Midwest since the companys 2012 founding. The project near Boerne, dubbed Bluff View, would be its second in Texas.

Early development plans call for eight three-story buildings and a clubhouse. Each building would have between 24 and 36 units  a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
Esequiel Chappo Luevanos, a Mexican-born artist whose work involved shaping massive limestone boulders into sculptures and furniture scattered across Texas Hill Country, died on Oct. 17. He was 63.

The cause was not immediately clear and was unexpected, said Bill Hinckley, the president of the Lookout Group Inc., the Texas real estate and investment company behind the Crystal Falls and the Esperanza development just outside of Boerne.

We are all just devastated, Hinckley said.

On ExpressNews.com: Here are Kendall County and Boerne's 8 largest employers

Luevanos repurposed large stones and turned them into rock installations. Using recycled construction materials, his work helped define the earthy-like brand of the Lookout Group. Its properties are full of salvaged limestone, pasture walls and hand-stacked walls that call back to German settler homesteads.

Crystal Falls and Esperanza are both replete with 2,000-pound hand carved street signs and dramatic stockade fences made of cedar stays. Luevanos was in the middle of designing art for the companys upcoming Georges Ranch subdivision in Boerne.

The Lookout Group, Inc.

He created a surprise around every corner, Hinckley said. It wasnt anything for him to pick up a 2,000-pound rock with chains and heavy machinery and bring it across the community to carve it into an owl.

The Luevanos family did not immediately respond to requests for comment. In a statement posted online, the family said they were devastated by the loss.

Luevanos is survived by his wife, Michelle Luevanos; daughters Raven Luevanos and Whitney Gordon; and sons Jeremy and Cody Gordon.

The Lookout Group, Inc.

Chappo was a loving and caring husband, father and friend who touched the hearts of those around him, the post said. Chappo dedicated his life to his wife and children, and his legacy will live on through the artful projects seen throughout Esperanza and beyond.

Luevanos was born in the Mexican state of Coahuila in 1958. He and his four siblings immigrated to the United States when he was 4-years-old. According to Hinckley, the family arrived in a 1956 Chevrolet with only $20. The family made it as far as Florence, Texas, before the vehicle broke down.

On ExpressNews.com: Minnesota developer could build a 192-unit workforce apartment complex near Boerne

Luevanos grew up on ranches in South Texas and began working for the Lookout Group in 1999. Luevanos and his brother Joe helped the company build its Crystal Falls Community near Austin. Crystal Falls, home to an old limestone quarry, was where Luevanos honed his craft.

One of the hallmarks of the Esperanza development is a 1850s-inspired mission sentinel near the entrance to the development.

The Lookout Group, Inc.

Luevanos moved to Esperanza seven years ago and worked with a crew that based each piece on hand-drawn sketches made in the field.

Every boulder or rock has a face, Luevanos said in a recent promotional video posted on Esperanzas website. People just see a rock. I look at a face and the best way to put that where it will stand out better.

Luevanos was well known throughout Esperanza and beyond. He developed a close friendship with Kendall County Sheriff Tom Allison, who said he considered Luevanos a father figure.

His death was a really big shock, Allison said. Ive seen a lot of death but its closer to home when its someone youve known for a long time.

Timothy.Fanning@express-news.net
Bexar County leaders are racing to finalize a redistricting plan in two weeks after being warned Tuesday the countys current precinct boundaries now violate the U.S. Constitution.

The countys population grew just over 17 percent overall, to 2,009,324, in the past decade, according to 2020 U.S. Census figures.

Growth in Precinct 3 on the North Side, now with 552,251 residents, has created a disparity that far exceeds 10 percent  the threshold under federal law for population variation among local jurisdictions. Precinct 2, on the West/Northwest sides, had the lowest figure  463,625  of the four precincts.

Legal consultants presented three plans to county commissioners that shift boundaries to lower the disparity to between 4.66 percent and 5.79 percent. None of the three plans affects Precinct 1 on the South/Southwest sides, and only one would change the boundary for Precinct 4 to pick up residents from Precinct 3.

The plan that you have now is unconstitutional, attorney Jose Garza told commissioners.

Precinct 4 Commissioner Tommy Calvert said he was skeptical of the data, which was delayed by at least four months, compared with the normal census and redistricting timeline. He said hes seen housing data for Precinct 2, along Interstate 10, that showed the largest growth in housing stock and new homes, something like 38 to 40 percent.

It seems very out of place to see that not reflected in the census numbers, Calvert said.

On ExpressNews.com: Census map: See how your neighborhood fared

Garza and Rolando L. Rios, another attorney advising the county on redistricting, agreed with commissioners concerns about an undercount of apartment dwellers and Hispanic residents. They predicted widespread litigation.

But they cautioned that commissioners need to finalize and approve a redistricting plan by their next regular meeting on Nov. 9 to meet administrative deadlines for the spring 2022 primary elections.

Jerry Lara /San Antonio Express-News

I dont think its wise to put your hat on the hook that we hope theres going to be an adjustment in the census data, Garza said, adding that the county could revisit the issue in two years.

The two lawyers said commissioners could propose their own plan based on the three maps submitted and census data. Precinct 3 Commissioner Trish DeBerry said she would prefer a plan that doesnt leave suburban cities straddling a precinct boundary, sometimes forcing residents to seek help from two commissioners.

She noted that a majority of Helotes is in her precinct, while most of Leon Valley is in Precinct 2, represented by Commissioner Justin Rodriguez. All three options presented Tuesday move more of Leon Valley and the South Texas Medical Center area from DeBerrys precinct to Rodriguezs. Two options move more of Helotes from Rodriguez to DeBerry.

Bexar County Judge Nelson Wolff said hes worried about educational and income demographic data showing 500,000 more county residents outside San Antonio, which generally has not annexed land in recent years. As a result, theres a growing disparity of affluence in outlying areas, he said.

The county is going to be facing a lot more issues in the future because the city is not annexing, said Wolff, who will conclude 21 years of service as county judge next year. Were seeing some segregation of wealth and education  more higher income, more education on the periphery of the city of San Antonio.

The county dealt with a similar redistricting dilemma in 2011  but without a pandemic that delayed census data.

Commissioners Court voted 4-1 that year in favor of a plan that redistributed some Precinct 3 voters into adjoining jurisdictions  Precinct 2 on the West Side and Precinct 4 on the East Side. Then-Precinct 3 Commissioner Kevin Wolff, objecting that his district was still the only one that didnt reach into the downtown area, was unable to win support for a motion to extend his jurisdiction as far south as Mahncke Park.

Workforce training facility

In other business, commissioners directed county staff to issue a request for proposals on construction of a Bexar County Workforce Training Center, a skills-based training academy at Brooks.

In March, commissioners approved a $1.17 million agreement with Marmon Mok Architects for design and development services on the 30,000-square-foot job-training facility to be completed in 2023. The center, expected to cost $10.7 million, will include classrooms, labs and meeting spaces.

The building will be used to support the countys partnership with the Texas Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education, or TX FAME, which is working with 10 companies locally to provide training to create an employment-placement pipeline.

County staff plans to return to commissioners in February with a recommended construction manager for the project.

Urban farm project

Commissioners also approved a $2.3 million contract to construct an open pavilion classroom, driveways, landscaping, perimeter fencing and other elements of the $13.7 million Bexar County Agrilife Greenies Urban Farm project, which provides fresh food and nutrition education to residents throughout the county. The facility is being expanded on a former industrial railroad site on the East Side that county officials have said used to be an eyesore.

The first crops of broccoli, cauliflower, kale and cabbage were planted at the urban farm a year ago and distributed two months later. Calvert said another distribution is planned in early November.

The fresh produce is provided through a collaboration with the Bexar County Texas A&M Agriculture Extension agency, the San Antonio Food Bank and other partners. The county is responsible for development and maintenance of buildings at the site, while the agriculture extension team offers expertise and community education.

On ExpressNews.com: Texas, Bexar County post big population gains

DRT Library Collection

A one-year agreement with the Daughters of the Republic of Texas to manage their library collection, formerly housed at the Alamo and now at the county archives building at 126 E. Nueva St., also was approved by commissioners.

The DRT had entered an agreement in 2016 with Texas A&M University-San Antonio to provide administrative oversight of the collection that will soon expire. The Daughters asked the county to serve as custodian of the collection and manage the research materials, including over 20,000 books on history, genealogy, politics, government and other topics related to Texas, as well as maps, artwork, photos, vertical files and hundreds of archived groupings of personal and family papers.

The county will hire two librarians at a cost of $102,326 to work with the collection, as well as the countys Spanish Archives, also housed at the Nueva Street facility, and interdepartmental historical collections, Bexar County Clerk Lucy Adame-Clark said.

shuddleston@express-news.net
The city of San Antonio could spend $30 million in federal stimulus funds to help residents cover past-due utility bills and avoid disconnection of electric and water service.

Officials on Tuesday proposed directing funds received through the American Rescue Plan to customers of city-owned CPS Energy and San Antonio Water System who have experienced hardships due to COVID-19.

Both utilities ceased disconnections at the beginning of the pandemic last year, but they resumed cutting service for nonpayment this month. Tens of thousands of residents have fallen behind on their utility bills as they struggle to recover from the historic economic downturn.

Under the plan set to be considered Nov. 18 by City Council, CPS Energy would receive $20 million and $10 million would go to SAWS. The funds are expected to help about 20,000 CPS customers and 13,000 SAWS customers.

More than 67,600 CPS customers with past-due bills are in danger of disconnection, though that number is declining as some either pay what they owe or make payment arrangements, officials said. And as of last month, more than 16,000 SAWS customers were at risk of having their water shut off.

On ExpressNews.com: SAWS, CPS disconnections to resume Friday

On average, CPS and SAWS customers owe about $675 in past-due bills. All told, past-due bills amount to nearly $190 million, according to the latest data.

As proposed, the assistance programs are for residential customers only. The city could look at using federal relief funds for small businesses, depending on feedback at yet-to-be-scheduled public hearings.

Who is eligible

To be eligible for the funds, customers must live within San Antonio and be enrolled on a payment plan or affordability program with either utility. They also must show proof theyve suffered financial hardship due to the pandemic, from March 1, 2020, to Sept. 30.

To show hardship, residents can provide documents such as an unemployment or furlough letter, evidence of a medical expense or lost income, or a self-signed document explaining the financial toll COVID-19 has taken on their finances.

Such evidence of hardship is necessary for the city to meet requirements tied to the federal funding, said Lori Houston, an assistant city manager.

If a households income is below 125 percent of the poverty line  which is just more than $33,000 for a family of four  the entire bill for the period from March 2020 through September would be waived.

For customers with incomes of more than 125 percent of the poverty line, CPS would be able to pay off account balances up to $1,000, while SAWS would credit up to $700.

These funds, for us, would likely wipe out the balances for anybody at that 125 percent or below poverty level, said Rudy Garza, CPS chief customer engagement officer.

CPS and SAWS executives urge residents with past-due accounts to sign up for the affordability discount program both utilities offer or call either CPS or SAWS to enroll in a payment plan to qualify for the assistance.

Each utility would manage its own assistance program, and ratepayers would apply directly through CPS or SAWS  if City Council approves the relief spending next month.

Residents with past-due bills can set up a payment plan with SAWS online at saws.org/arrangement, or call 210-704-7297 to discuss other payment options. Customers may also enroll in SAWS Affordability Discount Program online if qualified, or call 210-233-CARE for more information.

Due to a high call volume, SAWS advises customers try signing up online.

To set up a payment plan with CPS, residents can call 210-353-2222. They can also look at payment options online by visiting the CPS homepage at cpsenergy.com, clicking on Ways to pay and selecting Customer Assistance & Payment Options from the links on the left side of the page.

Whats owed

As of last month, nearly 62,000 residential SAWS customers had balances overdue 60 days or more, with 16,000 at risk of having their water shut off. The utility began sending out disconnection notices in late September and started shutting off water Oct. 19.

Delinquent accounts for residential customers enrolled in the Affordability Discount Program will be put on hold until March 15, with the possibility of further extensions. Residential accounts that enroll now for ADP will be added to the hold period as well. As of now, 7,600 customer accounts are on hold.

On ExpressNews.com: CPS Energy trims proposed rate increase after CEO announces early-2022 resignation

For those not in the program, SAWS automatically enrolled customers in a 48-month payment plan if they owed $2,000 or less. Once the customers have paid 37.5 percent of their balance, the rest will be written off. Just over 46,000 customers are now on payment plans.

Only 7 percent of commercial and multifamily customers have signed up for a payment plan.

The most important thing right now is for SAWS customers is to contact us so we can set them up, said Mary Bailey, SAWS vice president of customer experience and strategic initiatives.

Overall, customers owe SAWS nearly $54 million in past-due bills.

Among CPS customers, more than 67,000 are under threat of disconnection. They owe nearly $77 million.

CPS officials said more customers are paying off balances since CPS restarted disconnecting business customers in September. Since the end of August, 17,000 customers have either paid off their accounts or gotten on a payment plan, Garza said.

The utility hasnt disconnected any residential customers, he said, even though CPS formally ended its disconnection pause at the beginning of October.

As we move into customers who have to deal with their balance or get disconnected, we believe a lot of them will pay, Garza said. Seventy-five percent of customers who have gone through this process have gotten right.

Customers owe CPS a total of about $135 million in past-due balances  though not all of those accounts are eligible for disconnection.

The electric utility is preparing to request City Council approval of a rate increase thats expected to raise customers bills by about 8 percent on average. But armed with $20 million to pay down customer accounts, CPS may be able to seek a smaller rate hike. How much smaller is uncertain, though, Chief Financial Officer Cory Kuchinksy said.

It absolutely has a dampening impact on the size of the rate increase, he said. It will have a positive impact on bringing the number down.

diego.mendoza-moyers@express-news.net

elena.bruess@express-news.net

megan.stringer@express-news.net
The driver of a car who Kerrville police said lost control during a drag race over the weekend and slid into spectators, killing two children, was identified Monday.

Michael Gonzales, who was driving a 1990 Ford Mustang about 3:30 p.m. Saturday, began to lose control halfway down the one-eighth-mile track Saturday afternoon at the Kerrville-Kerr County Airport, police said in a news release.

The Mustang lost rear traction, turned to the left and began sliding, investigators said. It then slid off of the airport runway, which was being used as the racetrack, and into the grassy area where a crowd was watching the race, police said.

On ExpressNews.com: Drag racing crash kills two children in Kerrville

The Mustang struck multiple spectators before hitting a trailer and coming to a stop, investigators said.

A 6-year-old boy died at the scene, police said, and an 8-year-old boy was taken to Peterson Regional Medical Center in Kerrville, where he died.

Although police had not released the names of the two boys as of Monday afternoon, a GoFundMe account has been started on behalf of the family of Daniel Trujillo-Jones to pay for his funeral expenses. Its not clear whether Daniel is the 6-year-old or the 8-year-old killed.

Kerrville Fire Department personnel, who were on scene in case of an accident, began helping the injured as Kerrville police maintained crowd control.

Four people with serious nonfatal injuries were airlifted to medical facilities in Kerrville, San Antonio and Austin.

Chance Dean Jones, 26, of Taylor, remains hospitalized and is reported to be in stable condition at Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin, police said. A separate GoFundMe account has been established for Jones, who appears to be Daniels father, to help pay his familys collective medical expenses. The GoFundMe account description says: Chance's oldest son lost his life in this accident, his two younger kids were checked and released, and his girlfriend is currently recovering in a hospital as well. Chance and his family have a long road of recovery and healing ahead of them.

Mary Kate Walls, 27, of Taylor; and Rebecca Cedillo, 46, of Converse, remain hospitalized and are reported to be in critical condition at University Hospital in San Antonio.

Gonzales, 34, of Fort Worth, is hospitalized in stable condition at a facility in the Medical Center area.

Two people were treated for minor injuries and released at the scene, and two children  a 4-year-old boy and a 3-month-old girl, possibly the younger children mentioned in the GoFundMe description for the Jones family  were transported to Peterson Regional Medical Center by ambulance, where they were evaluated as a precaution and released.

Kerrville Police continue to investigate the incident, officials said. Police are asking anyone with photos or video of the incident to share them with investigators by calling Sgt. James Machetta at 830-258-1310. People may also email him at james.machetta@kerrvilletx.gov.

The event, called Airport Race Wars 2, was hosted by Flyin Diesel Performance & Offroad, an auto shop in Kerrville across the street from the airport.

At 10 a.m., Ross Dunagan, owner of Flyin Diesel, recorded a live video on Facebook showing numerous vehicles being tested and tuned prior to the race.

Hours later, at 4:35 p.m., Dunagan confirmed in another live video that there was an accident during the Race Wars event.

On ExpressNews.com: Man loses leg after being hit by train on South Side

The companys Facebook page had been advertising the event for about a month prior, offering thousand-dollar-plus payouts in various racing categories.

Dunagan had also uploaded a video showing water barriers being set up and filled along a portion of the airstrip.

On Sunday, Flyin Diesel said in a statement that it is working with Kerrville police.

On behalf of the entire Flyin Diesel team, we extend our most sincere condolences to the families affected on Saturdays event, the statement reads. We remain in prayer for strength and comfort through this difficult time.

The Express-News reached out late Monday afternoon to the owner for comment regarding the incident but did not receive a response by press time.

jbeltran@express-news.net
Courtesy of the Bexar County Sheriffs Office

A San Antonio man who was arrested last week on animal cruelty charges is accused of torturing and killing a childs hamster, city officials confirmed Tuesday.

Roosevelt James Johnsons arrest stemmed from an incident on May 11. He is accused of squeezing the hamster to death during a domestic violence disturbance, according to a news release from the city of San Antonio Animal Care Services Department.
The Salado Creek greenway is a wondrous trail, winding across and up District 9 on the citys North Side. In the heart of the city, the greenway takes you out of it, even as it brings the community together, linking parks and neighborhoods.

Countless District 9 residents love this trail, greeting each expansion with joy.

As one described it perfectly on Twitter, The Salado Greenway Trail is officially open for use. Its a beautiful day to go check out this great addition. @SAParksandRec has another extension to Eisenhower coming soon! This trail system is going to be stunning.

Thats what District 9 City Councilman John Courage tweeted about the greenway in 2019, but two years later, Courage isnt living up to his own words. Instead, hes pushing hard to slash proposed greenway funding by $76 million. As Courage might say, its stunning.

Courage, along with District 5 City Councilwoman Teri Castillo and District 10 City Councilman Clayton Perry, have called a special council meeting in the name of gutting proposed greenway funding in the citys 2022 bond. Castillo has said she wants to take the Howard W. Peak Greenway Trail system out of the bond  freeing the initially proposed $126 million (over five years) to other uses, especially drainage. Perry has proposed $40 million over five years. In a recent op-ed, Courage proposed $50 million over five years.

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Any of these options would be a devastating blow to a visionary project and a betrayal of San Antonio voters who have enthusiastically endorsed the greenway trail network for years. Lets remember, about 75 percent of city voters backed dedicating a 1/8-cent sales tax to fund the greenway system in 2015.

There is no doubt voters would have approved greenway funding again this past November, but Mayor Ron Nirenberg and city officials made a promise: If voters opted to shift sales tax dollars traditionally set aside for the greenway system and Edwards Aquifer protection to support workforce development and VIA Metropolitan Transit, the city would then fund aquifer protection and the greenways through other means.

Voters opted to make that shift, and now Courage, Castillo and Perry are opting out.

On ExpressNews.com: Your guide to San Antonio's Howard W. Peak Greenway Trails System hike and bike trails - all 84 miles of them

Now, Courage might say hes not really breaking this promise since he is still proposing $50 million over five years. He clearly loves the greenway trails  in his district. But hes not honoring the original intent. The citys promise is for $200 million  spread over two bond cycles  to cover 45 miles of trails. And until that is completed, greenway funding should be viewed as sacrosanct.

Lets pause for a moment, though, and recognize that while Courages hypocrisy might be without nuance, this broader discussion has many layers to it. Castillo is right to call attention to the drainage issues on the West Side and, in turn, our citys history of neglect and inequality.

But she somehow has lost sight of that promise to voters, as well as how completing the greenway is also an equity issue. After all, the Salado Creek Greenway in Courages district has been built. To slash funding now would mean slowing down construction of trails on the South, East and West sides. It would be a repeat of the San Antonio story. Castillo, Courage and Perry already have managed to reduce proposed greenway funding to $110 million, as outlined in a city memo last week.

On ExpressNews.com: Courage: Greenway trails great, but fund drainage first

A better conversation wouldnt pit one equity issue against another. Instead, it would seek to find a way to address historic drainage concerns (and lets be clear, the proposed bond includes some $600 million for streets and drainage) while also preserving greenway funding. It can be true that drainage is a concern, and the greenway should be honored, right?

The greenway system, assuming it is completed, will one day loop this city, making an economically divided community more integrated. It promotes health and fitness in a city where obesity and diabetes rates are sky-high. It is visionary because it preserves open spaces, provides commuting alternatives and boosts quality of life. Its a remarkable investment in people.

Whats worse: To not see and believe in this vision, or to betray the voters who do?

jbrodesky@express-news.net
After months of tiptoeing around the issue of altering or eliminating the Senate filibuster rules to protect voting rights  and therefore democracy itself  and after an unprecedented year of Republican assaults, President Joe Biden has finally said he is open to changing the rules. And , he said it in the most weak-kneed way possible.

At a CNN town hall Thursday, Anderson Cooper asked Biden: On voting rights, if it is as important to you as you say, I think theres a lot of Democrats who look at the filibuster and would like to see it changed, even if its just on this one case. Why do you oppose that?

Biden basically that trying too hard at this point to save democracy would endanger his ability to save his spending bill: Heres the deal. If, in fact, I get myself into at this moment the debate on the filibuster, I lose at least three votes right now to get what I have to get done on the economic side of the equation, on the foreign policy side of the equation.

Biden then proposed bringing back the talking filibuster immediately. I also think were going to have to move to the point where we fundamentally alter the filibuster, he said, framing the craziness of the Republican filibuster to prevent Democrats from raising the federal debt limit as a possible catalyst for reforms. He concluded: But it still is difficult to end the filibuster beyond that. Thats another issue.

Cooper pressed on: But are you saying, once you get this current agenda passed on spending and social programs, that you would be open to fundamentally altering the filibuster or doing away with it?

Biden said he would be open to fundamentally altering it, but when Cooper again raised the idea of doing away with it, Biden responded, Well, that remains to be seen exactly what that means, in terms of fundamentally altering it, and whether or not we just end the filibuster straight up.

Cooper pressed on whether he would entertain the notion of doing away with the filibuster for voting rights, to which Biden answered, and maybe more.

Why is Biden so reticent to say unequivocally that we must protect voting rights at all costs, even if it means altering or eliminating the filibuster? (Being open to something or entertaining it is not the same as demanding it.) Why does deciphering what Biden is saying here feel like working through a riddle?

Furthermore, why is it that Biden believes he will lose whatever momentum he has on the spending bill by entering the debate over filibuster reform now? Wont he also be lost if he enters it later? Also, why did he keep bringing up the debt limit debate as the filibuster destroyer, even though Cooper kept directing him to voting rights?

Biden is talking out of both sides of a mealy mouth.

You cant move in the course of one exchange from saying we might soon have to fundamentally change the filibuster, to saying youre open to fundamentally changing it, to saying it remains to be seen what that change would or should look like.

Defenders of the administrations approach tell us this is all part of the choreography of Washington. This is the dance that must be danced. And it will all work out: Some version of the spending bill will be passed, which will free the president to defend voting rights more forcefully.

I hope this is true. We need whats in the spending bill. Its just that we need voting more.

I hope my panic and exasperation over the administrations lack of urgency on voting rights turn out not to have been warranted. I want to be wrong. Being right would be cataclysmic.

Biden and the Democratic leadership want us to trust them, to trust Sens. Joe Manchin and Kyrsten Sinema. They want us to trust a system that has not earned that trust and often betrays it.

I can imagine a moment after the social spending bill vote in which Biden cranks up the pressure on passing a voter protection bill, having public meetings with stakeholders, traveling the country to lobby for it and possibly even giving an address from the Oval Office in support of it.

He could do all of that. He should have done it already.

But responses like the ones he gave at the CNN town hall are more infuriating than instructive.

Consider someone feeling like he is drowning and you do nothing until panic overtakes him and he loses consciousness, and only then do you snatch him from the water, saying, Why were you freaking out? I had this under control the whole time. How would you expect him to feel? Happy that you saved him, at the last minute, or bitter that you watched and waited while he felt like he was drowning?
Las mujeres hacen el trabajo, pero los hombres reciben el credito  women do the work; men get the credit  is a dicho, or saying, that comes to mind when I think of the effort to add the name of Andres Sarabia to Las Palmas Library.

This would bestow on Sarabia, co-founder and first president of COPS/Metro, credit for the librarys existence when it was the effort of countless women, who worked without recognition, to create Las Palmas Library for their children, for their communidad. When will we stop giving credit to one man instead of recognizing the work of women?

Heres one example: As Laura Mancilla lay on her hospital bed and the priest administered last rites, two nurses came into her room, and Mancilla interrupted the priest and asked him to get her pocketbook. She pulled out a couple of raffle tickets and sold them to the nurses. The priest told the story at Mancillas funeral to illustrate her dedication to Las Palmas Library and the children it served.

From the late 1960s through the 90s, a group of remarkable women from Our Lady of Good Counsel Catholic Church was part of the Guadalupanas Society, a religious association organized by Mexican American Catholic women to provide leadership in social concerns and perform works of charity. These women learned and applied new leadership and organizational skills; many participated in the grassroots group Communities Organized for Public Service, or COPS.

Members of Guadalupanas became members of Los Padrinos of Las Palmas Library and were active and instrumental in helping the new library become a reality through their work on the library/literacy center bond passed in 1989 and by fundraising, one raffle ticket and bake sale at a time.

These working-class women who made up the bulk of membership in Sociedades Guadalupanas are characteristic of the women in the West Side who have, rarely with recognition, worked for change so their children could realize better lives.

There was never a dull moment with these women, who cooked in the kitchen and sold food to parishioners after the noon Mass. If they werent cooking, they were running bingo games and selling food and desserts, always raising money for their library. They managed booths for church festivals. They did it all.

I can speak to these stories because some were my and my friends family members. They were women like Antonia Garcia and Paula Perales.These feisty, dedicated, smart women would not let you leave their presence unless you bought something they were selling. And, believe me, we would buy whatever they were selling!

There are countless other stories from and about these women who belong to Los Padrinos of Las Palmas Library. These stories deserve to be told. The library is not the work of one man:Its creation was an act of community, of determined women who would not give up. Lets not erase their contribution by adding the name of one man to the Las Palmas name. These women of the Los Padrinos are seldom, if ever, honored because women rarely get credit for any kind of accomplishment.

Lets move beyond the hero narrative and tell the truth about the power of community. Those forgotten women of Los Padrinos would want their librarys name to stay as it is. The San Antonio Public Library board should deny the request to add Sarabias name to Las Palmas Library. All those who worked for its success should be honored because Las Palmas Library was an act of love by the community, not the work of one man.

Velma Pena is a longtime West Side San Antonio advocate.
A long-awaited animal cruelty bill aimed at protecting restrained outdoor dogs was finally signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott on Monday, effectively banning the use of chain tethers and empowering law enforcement officers to act quickly when they find an animal in dire conditions.

Senate Bill 5, otherwise known as the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act, narrowly made it into Texas law after Abbott vetoed a nearly identical version called SB 474 that passed both chambers with wide bipartisan support in a previous session. In a veto statement, Abbott claimed that version micro-managed and over-penalized pet owners.

STILL NOT DONE?: Republicans pressure Abbott to call another special session

Advocates were perplexed by the veto since the bill actually expands the exceptions under the current law and keeps criminal penalties the same. Following widespread public backlash, including a social media windstorm claiming #Abbotthatesdogs, the governor put the bill back on the third special session agenda, giving it a rare second chance.

The bill strikes the use of chain tethers, weights or improperly fitted collars; requires animals housed outside have adequate shelter that keeps them safe from inclement weather and allows them to sit, stand and move around comfortably; and eliminates a 24-hour waiting period for law enforcement to intervene if they come across an animal in inhumane conditions.

The only changes made to the new bill are minor adjustments to language, including what is defined as inclement weather and material for a dogs collar. A provision defining adequate shelter was added, clarifying that a dog must be able to avoid standing water and exposure to excessive animal waste. The time a dog may be left in a truck bed was also amended to time reasonably necessary for the owner to complete a temporary task.

SB 5 keeps the same exceptions for dog owners that were included in the previous bill, such as those who use their animals for farming and agricultural purposes. It also keeps the criminal penalties the same, but just makes them enforceable.

The Texas Humane Legislative Network, a nonprofit that works to pass anti-cruelty legislation, has been one of bills largest proponents for years. Stacy Sutton Kerby, director of government relations for the organization, said the network saw the changes as a compromise on language that still preserves the integrity of the bill.

MORE ON SB 5: After Abbott veto, Texas Legislature passes 2nd bill regulating chained dogs and outdoor shelter

Now that SB 5 has been signed into law, advocates such as Kerby are finally able to breathe a sigh of relief.

This will effectuate change for thousands and thousands of dogs across the state, Kerby said. Every season, whether its super-hot Texas summers or whether its hurricane season or in the northern part of the state where it can regularly get to freezing temperatures, we get reports of dogs that have died outside at the ends of their chains. So we know that this is going to affect animals in a positive way going forward.

Saving an animals life

Proponents said the part of the law that will have a critical effect is the elimination of the 24-hour waiting period, which some officials said creates unnecessary delays that are potentially life-threatening.

Randy Farmer, chief animal cruelty investigator for the Houston Humane Society, thinks of certain cases hes seen of dogs that are cruelly confined. Some are found wrapped around a tree or a pole and end up accidentally hanging themselves trying to get free. Others are chained up in a backyard and drown during a hurricane, or die from exposure after being tied to a concrete slab in triple-digital heat.

It's important to the fact that we can actually take care of the problem right away, Farmer said of the new law. We actually will be able to go out and save the animals life.

Another critical component is the banning of chain tethers, which according to Kerby and other animal experts, are unsafe restraints for dogs that can sometimes become embedded into their necks. Studies show chains can damage a dogs physical and psychological well-being and make them more aggressive.

Embedded collars dont happen overnight ... thats weeks and weeks of the animal being neglected, Farmer said. Its a terrible smell  embedded collars  its a smell youll never forget. Its a great thing the law has been able to move forward and change to prevent this type of neglect.

In a statement, the bills author, state Sen. Eddie Lucio Jr., D-Brownsville, thanked supporters of the bill and the governor for signing it.

There is now a basic standard of care that must be provided to dogs tethered outdoors across the state, the statement read. Dogs are more than man's best friend, they are family. Mistreating dogs is horrible and passing legislation like this isn't just good policy, it's humane policy.

The bill will be effective Jan. 18, 2022. In the meantime, Kerby said Texas Humane Legislative Network will be working to help pet owners understand the differences between current code and the new law, and to help them come into compliance.

rebecca.hennes@chron.com
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Former South Korean President Roh Tae-woo, a major player in a 1979 coup who later became president in a landmark democratic election before ending his tumultuous political career in prison, died in hospital on Tuesday in the capital of Seoul. He was 88.

Roh, who ruled South Korea as president from 1988-1993, died of complications from various illnesses after his condition worsened while dealing with a degenerative disorder, Kim Yon-su, head of Seoul National University Hospital, told a news conference.

Roh was a key participant in the December 1979 military coup that made his army friend and coup leader Chun Doo-hwan president after their mentor, dictator Park Chung-hee, was assassinated following 18 years of rule.

Roh led his army division into Seoul and joined other military leaders for operations to seize the capital. In the following year, the military under Chun and other coup leaders launched a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in the southern city of Gwangju, killing about 200 people, in one of the darkest moments in South Korea's turbulent modern history.

Roh was Chuns hand-picked successor, which would have assured him the presidency in an easy indirect election. But a massive pro-democracy uprising in 1987 forced Roh and Chun to accept a direct presidential election that was regarded as the start of South Koreas transition to democracy.

Despite his military background, Roh built a moderate and genial image during the campaign, calling himself an average person. He eventually won the hotly contested election in December 1987, largely thanks to a split in liberal votes between opposition candidates Kim Young-sam and Kim Dae-jung, who both later became presidents.

During his five-year term, Roh aggressively pursued ties with communist nations under his Northward Diplomacy as communism fell in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union dissolved.

South Korea was then deeply anti-communist because of its rivalry with North Korea, but under Roh it opened diplomatic relations with a communist nation for the first time  Hungary in 1989, the year when the Berlin Wall fell and communism crumbled across Eastern Europe.

Rohs government established relations with the Soviet Union in 1990 and with China in 1992. Relations with North Korea improved under Roh, with the two sides holding their first-ever prime ministers talks, adopting a landmark joint statement on denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and joining the United Nations at the same time.

Earlier, Roh oversaw the hosting of the 1988 Summer Games in Seoul, the final Olympics of the Cold War era that showed how South Korea had rebuilt itself from the ashes of the 1950-53 Korean War. North Korea boycotted the 1988 games.

Ties between the two Koreas have since suffered ups and downs. Despite numerous denuclearization pledges  including one made during Rohs presidency  North Korea still maintains its nuclear weapons program which it views as a means of survival.

On domestic politics, Roh was seen by many as lacking charismatic and aggressive leadership. His nickname, Mul (Water) Tae-woo, implied his administration had no color and no taste. He still brought more openness by allowing more political criticism, in contrast with his authoritarian predecessors, Park and Chun. The governments led by Park and Chun often used security laws to suppress political opponents and restrict speech under the pretext of guarding against civil disorder and North Korean threats.

After his successor, Kim Young-sam, investigated the coup and military-led crackdown, Roh was arrested, convicted of mutiny, treason and corruption and received a 22-year and six-month prison term. Chun was sentenced to death.

The Supreme Court reduced those sentences to life imprisonment for Chun and 17 years for Roh. After spending about two years in prison, both Roh and Chun were released in late 1997 under a special pardon requested by then President-elect Kim Dae-jung, who sought national reconciliation amid an Asian financial crisis.

Roh had stayed mostly out of the public eye following his release from prison, refraining from political activities and speeches. In recent years, he suffered prostate cancer, asthma, cerebellar atrophy and other health problems.

Last April, his daughter, Roh So-young, wrote on Facebook that her father had been bed-bound over the past 10 years without being able to speak or move his body. She said her father sometimes made eye gestures for communications but looked to have a tearful face when he failed to express his feelings and thoughts properly.

Rohs son, Roh Jae-heon, repeatedly offered an apology over the 1980 crackdowns and visited a Gwangju cemetery to pay respects to the victims buried there on behalf of his bed-ridden father.

But unlike Rohs family, Chun, who reportedly suffers Alzheimers disease and a blood cancer, has yet to apologize over the crackdowns.

Last August, Chun appeared at a Gwangju court to defend himself against charges that he defamed a now-deceased Catholic priest who had testified to seeing Chuns troops shooting at protesters from helicopters in Gwangju. Chun left the court after 20 minutes, complaining of breathing problems. In his memoir, Chun called the priest a shameless liar.

Both Roh and Chun were earlier ordered by a court to pay back hundreds of millions of dollars they collected illegally. Roh has paid back his shares but Chun hasnt done so, according to South Korean media reports.

Roh is survived by his wife and their two children.

__

Associated Press writer Kim Tong-hyung and former AP writer Sam Kim contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A lawyer for a Guantanamo Bay detainee says the Supreme Court should wait to decide a case involving his client until it's clear what the Biden administration will let the man say about his torture abroad by the CIA.

The lawyer for Abu Zubaydah told the Supreme Court in a letter Monday that a case involving his client argued at the high court earlier this month should be put on hold for the time being. An agreement by the government to let Zubaydah provide information could mean the Supreme Court doesn't need to issue a ruling on when the government can shield information by saying it's a state secret.

Zubaydah was captured in Pakistan in 2002 and thought to be a high-ranking member of al-Qaida, the terrorist group that carried out the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on New York and Washington. He was tortured while being held at so-called CIA black sites abroad before being transferred to Guantanamo Bay in 2006.

According to a Senate report, among other things Zubaydah was waterboarded more than 80 times and spent over 11 days in a coffin-size confinement box.

It's been widely reported that Zubaydah was held at black sites in Thailand and Poland, but the U.S. government has not confirmed that. Polish officials, meanwhile, are investigating his treatment there. As part of that investigation, Zubaydah wants the testimony of two former CIA contractors who developed the CIA's interrogation program.

The Biden administration, like the Trump administration before it, has opposed the questioning, arguing that confirming where Zubaydah was held could damage national security. That's even as the two former contractors have testified publicly on other occasions.

At arguments in the case earlier this month, Justice Neil Gorsuch asked if the government would allow Zubaydah, rather than the contractors, to provide the information to Polish officials about his treatment. Zubaydah's lawyers had said the government was preventing him from doing so.

The Biden administration's top Supreme Court lawyer, acting Solicitor General Brian H. Fletcher, said he'd get back to the justices. In a letter filed a little over a week ago the administration said it would let Zubaydah provide information to Polish officials.

Any declaration written for Polish officials would still be subject to a security review, the government said, meaning it could be redacted. The government noted that a court case in the United States involving Zubaydah already includes a public declaration from him with redactions describing his treatment in CIA custody.

Zubaydahs lawyer David F. Klein, for his part, sounded a skeptical note in his own letter to the court Monday. He wrote it's theoretically possible the Governments new position will lead to a declaration that can help Polish officials. But he said that when Guantanamo prisoners have attempted in the past to describe their torture to the outside world ... the Government has sometimes redacted virtually every word.

Klein said it will take some time to learn whether a statement from Zubaydah would be treated similarly. He said lawyers would need to meet with Zubaydah, prepare a declaration and have it go through the redaction process. He urged the court to set a reasonable deadline for that review to be complete. When it is, he said, "the parties would return to the Court and address the impact of the declaration, if any, on the issues before the Court."

The government claims Zubaydah was an associate and longtime terrorist ally of Osama bin Laden. But Zubaydahs lawyers say the CIA was mistaken in believing he was a high-ranking member of al-Qaida.

The Biden administration has said it will seek to close the Guantanamo Bay detention facility.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  The suspect in a Boise mall shooting that killed two people and injured four others has died, the Boise Police Department said Tuesday.

The Ada County Coroner identified the suspected shooter as Jacob Bergquist, a 27-year-old Boise man. Coroner Dotti Owens said Bergquist's cause of death was still pending, but he died late Tuesday morning at a hospital.

Owens identified one of the people killed as Jo Acker, a 26-year-old security guard who worked at the mall. Family members said she died while trying to stop the shooter.

Jo you were always kind of loving .... you always had such an enormous heart of gold, Ackers sister Shawna Lee Lannigan wrote on Facebook. You were and are and always will be a hero. I love you to the ends of this earth and beyond.

The Boise Police Department first got the call that shots had been fired at the Boise Towne Square Mall at about 1:50 p.m., with callers describing a white man dressed in black, in possession of multiple guns.

In a prepared statement released Tuesday afternoon, the police department said evidence shows the shooter was first contacted by a security guard who was shot and killed at the scene. Police said the shooter then fired several rounds, shooting a glass escalator and a second victim who died of his injuries at a hospital.

The Ada County Coroner identified the slain man as Roberto Padilla Arguelles, 49, of Rupert, who was pronounced dead at a hospital.

The shooter then walked through the mall, firing rounds into the floor, which led to a 52-year-old woman and a 23-year-old woman being injured. Another man was injured when he fell while trying to escape the mall.

About three minutes after the initial report, responding officers saw the suspect running from mall area. They exchanged gunfire with the suspect outside a nearby business along a busy road, according to the police department.

A 68-year-old woman who was in her car on the road was shot and wounded in the gunfight, according to police. A Boise police officer was also injured when he was shot at through his vehicle window. The officer's hat was struck by the gunfire, and shards of glass hit the officer, the police department said. He was treated and released from a hospital.

Police found 18 spent shell casings inside the mall, and the investigation shows that the shooter had multiple guns and ammunition, the department said.

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee said Tuesday afternoon that law enforcement officers had searched a Boise home and investigators were combing through social media sites and other evidence in an effort to understand Bergquist's motives.

Anything to help us understand motivation," Lee said. "We've been working with our partners at the local, state and federal level to conduct interviews with people who knew him, Lee said, to try to understand anything we can about why this event happened, and why it happened in the location that it did.

Bergquist was known to Boise police from previous reports of disorderly conduct or trespassing, Lee said.

We have had contact with him in the past. We did not have any reason to arrest him, he said.

Bergquist never worked at the mall, but was frequently there and had previously been contacted by security guards for disorderly behavior, Lee said.
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

Sunshine in the morning followed by partly cloudy skies and gusty winds during the afternoon. High 43F. Winds WSW at 20 to 30 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early with increasing clouds overnight. Low 28F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph.
Fifty-four years ago today, a U.S. Naval Academy grad flying his 23rd combat mission in Vietnam came under heavy anti-aircraft fire over Hanoi. When the flak took one of the wings off his A-4 Skyhawk, the Navy flier hit his eject button. But with the aircraft in distress, the pilot's exit from the cockpit didn't go smoothly; he was slammed into his own plane, breaking a kneecap and both arms before his parachute even opened.

As I noted when writing about this episode previously, the ordeal of Lt. Cmdr. John S. McCain III was only beginning.

Tangled in his parachute, John McCain risked drowning in Hanoi's White Bamboo Lake when he was fished out of the water by local peasants and soldiers. This wasn't an act of mercy: Once on shore, McCain was beaten savagely. His left shoulder was smashed with a rifle butt, and he was bayonetted in the groin and the ankle, before being thrown into the back of a truck and driven to prison.

Built by the French in 1901, the facility was officially named Hoa Lo Prison. Unofficially, the Americans held there amid squalor, deprivation, and frequent torture sessions called it something else. The name was coined by Robert Shumaker, another U.S. Navy lieutenant commander shot down over North Vietnam. He dubbed it the "Hanoi Hilton." The name stuck.

Much has been written about John McCain's time in captivity there, including riveting accounts in books by two pals of mine, Robert Timberg and Mark Salter. It's a story that cannot be told in its entirety in my brief morning missive. It's a story worth knowing, however, and its relevance didn't dissipate when McCain ended up losing the presidency to Barack Obama. We're in political debate season now, at least in Virginia, which brings to mind John McCain's first campaign, and a candidate debate that set him on an eventual path to becoming a U.S. senator and later the 2008 Republican Party presidential nominee.

The scene was Phoenix, the year 1982. The retirement of Rep. John Rhodes had created an unexpected vacancy in Arizona's 1st Congressional District, which then included much of the state capital where McCain was living with his second wife, Cindy. He was an attractive new face in a district where winning the GOP primary was tantamount to election. More seasoned Republican officeholders had better claims on the seat, however, and they resented the interloper who'd lived in the state only briefly.

McCain was getting hammered on the carpetbagger issue, and responding ineffectively until one candidate forum when he heard the question for what he said seemed like the "thousandth time." Then, as recounted in Timberg's book "The Nightingale's Song," McCain said what was really on his mind:

"Listen, pal. I spent 22 years in the Navy," he began. "My grandfather was in the Navy. We in the military service tend to move a lot. We have to live in all parts of the country, all parts of the world. I wish I could have had the luxury, like you, of growing up and living and spending my entire life in a nice place like the first district of Arizona, but I was doing other things.

"As a matter of fact, when I think about it now," he continued, "the place I lived longest in my life was Hanoi."

Timberg related what happened next: "The audience sat for several seconds in shocked silence, then broke into thunderous applause."

That House election was essentially over, and McCain never lost another campaign in Arizona, though he did fall short in the 2000 Republican presidential primary season against George W. Bush  and fell short again in 2008 in the general election against Barack Obama. Even so, McCain managed to get in the last word. He did so, in classic John McCain fashion. In 2018, while fighting the cancer that would prove fatal, McCain surprised both Bush and Obama by asking them to speak at his funeral.

"Now, when John called me with that request earlier this year, I'll admit sadness and also a certain surprise," Obama said during his eulogy. "After our conversation ended, I realized how well it captured some of John's essential qualities.

"To start with, John liked being unpredictable, even a little contrarian," Obama continued. "He had no interest in conforming to some prepackaged version of what a senator should be and he didn't want a memorial that was going to be prepackaged either. It also showed John's disdain for self-pity. He had been to hell and back and yet somehow never lost his energy or his optimism or his zest for life. So cancer did not scare him."

"And he would maintain that buoyant spirit to the very end, too stubborn to sit still, as ever, fiercely devoted to his friends and most of all to his family," Obama said. "It showed his irreverence, his sense of humor, a little bit of a mischievous streak. What better way to get a last laugh than make George and I say nice things about him to a national audience? And most of all, it showed a largeness of spirit. An ability to see past differences in search of common ground."

Carl M. Cannon is the Washington bureau chief for RealClearPolitics. Reach him on Twitter @CarlCannon.
Fairfield, MT (59436)

Today

Sunshine and some clouds. High 44F. Winds WSW at 15 to 25 mph. Winds could occasionally gust over 40 mph..

Tonight

Partly to mostly cloudy. Low 29F. Winds WSW at 10 to 20 mph.
Animal rights activists have scaled the face of Defra's building in central London while demanding the department to 'defund meat'.

Protestors from Animal Rebellion, an off-shoot of Extinction Rebellion, climbed the building during the early hours of Tuesday morning (26 October).

Suspended in hammocks, the vegan activists unveiled a banner that reads 'COP26: Invest in a Plant-Based Future'.

They say they intend to remain on the government building "until Boris Johnson pledges to cut all taxpayer support for animal agriculture".

The campaigners also want the prime minister to "urge all world leaders to do the same when they attend the COP26 summit later this week."

Animal Rebellion spokesperson Nathan McGovern said: The government is simultaneously saying that it is a world leader in climate change whilst propping up the unsustainable and unprofitable meat and dairy industry, one that emits disproportionate amounts of greenhouse gases.

The activists are demanding the government to 'defund meat' (Photo: Animal Rebellion)

"This hypocrisy has to end  we need to defund meat and subsidise plant-based alternatives instead.

As part of their campaign, Animal Rebellion wants the government to 'defund meat' and instead subsidise plant-based foods.

In September, 50 activists from the group blockaded a dairy distribution centre owned by Arla, demanding the company to go plant-based by 2025.

And in May, vegan campaigners blockaded numerous McDonald's distribution centres for two days running.
Farmers are being advised to review security as nights get darker when clocks go back on 31 October amid an increase in thieves targeting expensive GPS systems.

The combination of dark winter nights and fewer people out and about after dark could lead to an increase in rural crime this winter, NFU Mutual has warned.

It comes as organised criminal gangs continue to target farms in overnight raids for expensive GPS systems and quad bikes.

In some cases thieves, who already know the layout of farms, are targeting victims of theft a second time, according to the rural insurer.

Shortages and sharp rises in the cost of diesel, heating oil and fertiliser are also raising the risk of vital supplies becoming top targets for rural thieves this winter.

NFU Mutual reported that the cost of rural theft in the UK fell by 20 per cent to 43.3m in 2020 as lockdown measures helped keep thieves out of the countryside.

However, in recent years, the cost of rural theft peaked from October to December and there are increasing concerns thieves are becoming more active as they are able to move more freely again.

Robin Till, of NFU Mutual Risk Management Services, said the longer nights meant criminals could move around farms and rural properties more easily without being noticed.

Now is a good time of year to step up security and assess how you have set out your stall," Mr Till said.

"Are your entrance and exit points secure, and are there expensive items on display? Could you target-harden valuable items with multiple layers of security?

While thieves like the cover of darkness, they hate anything that will announce their arrival so intruder alarms, security lighting and systems which send alerts and CCTV footage to mobile phones are good deterrents."

Farmers should also secure their stocks of fertiliser, diesel and heating oil tanks as prices continue to soar, Mr Till said.

These thefts cause disruption and huge anxiety in the farming community and we want to work together to make it harder for criminals to steal from our farms and villages.

How can I boost security this winter?

NFU Mutuals Risk Management Services provides advice to farms across the UK to manage risks and has produced a farm winter rural security checklist:

 Close and lock yard gates at night to deter drive-through thieves

 Lock outbuildings at night and carry out regular security checks during colder months

 Ensure security lighting, intruder alarms and cameras are working correctly

 Avoid leaving vehicles and implements where they can be easily seen from near-by roads by criminals searching for theft opportunities

 Never leave keys in machines when not in use

 Remove GPS systems where possible and lock them in a secure place overnight

 Store diesel and heating oil in tanks away from the public gaze and consider a fuel tank alarm

 Store fertiliser in a secure building

 Store portable tools such as chain saws, jet washers and welders in a secure locked cage

 Join a local farm watch group or WhatsApp network to keep updated about local rural crime trends and suspicious sightings

 Mark tools, equipment and implements to deter thieves and aid recovery by police

 Use tracking devices, immobilisers and CESAR-marking on tractors and quadbikes to deter thieves

 Consider mechanical devices to anchor down quads

 Know what you own - record all makes, models, serial numbers and photograph kit to help police investigate and aid an insurance claim
Morrisons new US-based owner has publicly highlighted the significant role the retailer plays as British farming's biggest direct customer.

US private equity group Clayton, Dubilier and Rice (CD&R) secured their takeover of retail giant Morrisons earlier this month following a four-month long battle.

The takeover was finally given the green light by shareholders at a meeting on 19 October, following CD&Rs successful bid at an auction earlier this month.

The Morrisons board backed CD&Rs 7.1 billion bid, narrowly beating competitive offers from other private equity consortiums.

CD&R said it recognises the role Morrisons plays as British farmings biggest direct customer, including the unique operational strength of its own integrated supply chain.

It follows the retailer's chief executive David Potts sending a letter to 3,000 farmers amid concern about the implications of the takeover.

Farmers had expressed concerns that the deal would change the retailer's payment practices and force them to negotiate new contracts.

Some producers had also raised worry over the supermarket chain's future direction on sustainability and environmental issues.

However, NFU President Minette Batters said the union was 'pleased' that the new owners pledged to support British farmers.

Sourcing from British farms has long been part of Morrisons heritage, culture and strategic growth plans and it is reassuring that CD&R wishes to continue to uphold these core values.

"This includes a commitment to maintain payment terms for suppliers," she said.

The NFU said it will continue to monitor how the new ownership affects farmers, and will be meeting with the retailer to understand its business plans.

Morrisons will now become a private company and will no longer trade on the London Stock Exchange.
Dairy farmers will be given the chance to explore the opportunities of exporting to Australia and New Zealand amid worry over the impact of the trade agreements on the sector.

The government has agreed a new trade deal with New Zealand, paving the way for the UK to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific (CPTPP).

According to New Zealand government statistics, dairy is the country's biggest export earner  worth about NZ$19 billion a year.

While farming groups there have hailed the trade agreement, British dairy industry bodies have raised concern over the deal's impact.

Dairy UK, a trade association for the dairy supply chain, said the New Zealand trade deal was a "blow for UK dairy."

With its lower production costs, New Zealand could "seize its opportunity to grow an unlimited market share for its dairy products in the UK", Dairy UK said.

Responding to the concerns, AHDB has set up a webinar to explore the opportunities, challenges and implications of exporting UK dairy products to Australia and New Zealand.

Farmers attending will also hear about two new reports, commissioned by the levy organisation, to assess the markets' attractiveness.

The findings will be discussed by Nicola Thomas, Director of the Food and Drink Exporters Association and Jayne Hunt, Director of Hunt Exports in Australia.

The webinar will explore how a new free trade agreement with Australia and New Zealand has the potential to open-up wider market access for British dairy farmers.

AHDB senior dairy export manager Lucy Randolph, who will be hosting the webinar, said it was an 'important' event for UK dairy farmers and exporters as it would take an in-depth look at the opportunities these markets present.

"And with many exporters looking at new markets further afield in the wake of Brexit, the findings of our new reports will prove hugely valuable," she said.

The webinar will also look at how both countries have a shared heritage and affinity with UK products and culture.

According to the AHDB, premium dairy products are growing in popularity in Australia and New Zealand, providing opportunities for imported goods.

Farmers and exporters will also hear from Cheryl Brett, International Sales Manager at Coombe Castle  who has been exporting British dairy products for over 40 years.

Ms Randolph said it was important to recognise that both countries had some of the highest dairy consumption and consumer expenditure levels in the world.

"Pre-Covid, UK dairy exports to both Australia and New Zealand were showing double digit year-on-year growth," she highlighted.

We hope that dairy exporters from the UK will join us for this webinar as AHDB continues to explore new and emerging markets which have the potential to deliver..

Farmers interested in attending the webinar, which starts at 9am on 2 November, can register online.
The Fauquier Times is honored to serve as your community companion. To say thank you, we are excited to offer 4 weeks FREE Digital & Print access to all subscribers new and returning alike.

We are dedicated to continuing providing reliable, high quality journalism. This is possible with the trust and support of our subscribers in the community we are proud to serve.
For the past 17 months, its been my great honor to serve on the local Covid Task Force. Local leaders from all walks of life  health care, business, government, non-profits, churches, first responders, and more  work together so that we can better respond to the real world effects of the 
In Warrensburg, Missouri, an hour east of Kansas City, Phantom V Distilling Co. has built a truly unique venue, offering more than a taste of its craft spirits.

Half of the building houses Phantom Vs distillery, while the other half is home to the states newest Coltons Steak House & Grill. Its been a really good relationship, says Mike Hammerly, who owns Phantom V with four friends. Offering food with our product, its a good marriage of both at a decent price point. You can have an enjoyable evening every day of the week if you want.

The restaurant, which serves classic steak dinners in a casual Western-inspired atmosphere, opened last summer, but Phantom V has been running stills on site since 2018. The brand distills vodka and 10 flavors of its 30-proof spirit.

The [Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau] calls them distilled specialty spirits, because they really dont fall under any certain category, Hammerly says.

The spirits are fermented with apples, though, so theyre labeled as apple brandy, which gives them a different edge and makes them super smooth. Anything made from a grain, like corn, tends to be a little bit harsh, Hammerly explains. When they try our spirits, a lot of people tell us, Well, Ive never liked apple brandy, but yours doesnt taste like apple brandy  its something all its own.

The Peach Orchard Recipe #5 was the distillerys first flavored spirit, but the Old Fashioned Oatmeal Cookie  inspired by grandmas chewy oatmeal cookies with crispy edges  is todays bestseller. The Lemon is reminiscent of Italian limoncello, and we also recommend the Lake Time Addiction with its alluring turquoise color and slightly sweet coconut essence.
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Filmmaker Pooja Bhatt has slammed one of India's biggest multinational consumer goods company after it tendered an apology and withdrew an advertisement featuring a lesbian couple celebrating Karwa Chauth. Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra also received an apology from the company after he criticised the advertisement. "Bas yahi karte raho (keep doing this).. slam, bam, ban! So much for being the Mother of democracy! Pity a giant like #Dabur refused to stand behind their AD. While I dont endorse a fairness cream in principal I reserved my comment as they attempted to celebrate Inclusivity & #PRIDE So why hide now?" Pooja Bhatt wrote on Twitter.

The advertisement for the product showed a lesbian couple celebrating Karwa Chauth together. As part of the ritual, married women keep a fast on that day for the safety and long life of their husbands. The advertisement had been shared on the company's social media portals and has now been removed. Fems Karwachauth campaign has been withdrawn from all social media handles and we unconditionally apologise for unintentionally hurting peoples sentiments," the brand wrote on Twitter.

"I had asked to send a warning to withdraw the advertisement before registering an FIR for hurting religious sentiments. Its good that they withdrew the advertisement and also tender apology for that," said Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra to a leading daily.

I consider this a serious matter. More so because such advertisements and clippings are made on the rituals of Hindu festivals only. They (the advertisement) showed lesbians celebrating Karva Chauth and seeing each other through a sieve. In future, they will show two men taking 'feras' (marrying each other according to Hindu rituals). This is objectionable," he had said in a statement on Monday.
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 25, 2021 / Pampa Metals Corp. ("Pampa Metals" or the "Company") (CSE:PM / FSE:FIRA / OTCQX:PMMCF) is pleased to announce it has retained the services of Oak Hill Financial ("Oak Hill") of Toronto for Investor Relations Services.

Pampa Metals has a unique property portfolio of eight (8) projects, covering a series of greenfield copper and gold targets along the highly productive, world-class mineral belts of northern Chile. The company has a highly qualified board and management, with lengthy experience with major and junior companies, participation in significant discoveries, and multiple decades of experience in South America. Current technical activities include:

Ongoing geophysical, geochemical, and geological surveys have identified high-quality drill targets on 4 wholly owned projects;

Recent drilling at 2 of these projects has given clear vectors towards what are interpreted to be mineralised porphyry centers;

Value-add via third party expenditures with an Option & JV Agreement at 2 additional projects.

About Oak Hill Financial

Oak Hill is a Toronto-based firm which develops strategic platforms for its clients that are utilized to gain exposure to, and recognition in, the capital markets. Oak Hill provides capital markets and investor relations services. Its team has marketed corporate issuers ranging in market cap from $10M to $2B in a variety of different sectors to the Canadian retail brokerage channel and institutional networks. Oak Hill's team has extensive experience across equity capital markets, equity research, institutional equity sales and traditional investor relations - resulting in tailored and highly collaborative solutions. Oak Hill is located at 161 Bay Street, Suite 2460 in Toronto.

Oak Hill will work closely with Pampa Metals to develop and deploy a comprehensive capital markets strategy and campaign. Activities will include providing an investor relations program catering to retail brokers and registered family offices, marketing services and an ongoing client services program.

Pampa Metals and Oak Hill have signed a services agreement (the "Agreement") and the Company shall pay Oak Hill a monthly advisory fee of CAD$14,000 plus applicable taxes from the Effective Date of the Agreement and every month thereafter as long as the Agreement remains in effect.

ABOUT PAMPA METALS

Pampa Metals is a Canadian company listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange (CSE: PM) as well as the Frankfurt (FSE: FIRA) and OTC (OTCQB: PMMCF) exchanges. Pampa Metals owns a highly prospective 59,000-hectare portfolio of eight projects for copper and gold located along proven mineral belts in Chile, one of the world's top mining jurisdictions. The Company has a vision to create value for shareholders and all other stakeholders by making a major copper discovery along the prime mineral belts of Chile, using the best geological and technological methods. For more information, please visit Pampa Metals' website www.pampametals.com.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

Julian Bavin | Chief Executive Officer

www.pampametals.com

INVESTOR CONTACT

Ioannis (Yannis) Tsitos | Director

investors@pampametals.com

Neither the CSE nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical fact, that address events or developments that Pampa Metals expects to occur, are 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", "indicate" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although Pampa Metals believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guaranteeing of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements.

SOURCE: Pampa Metals Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669416/Pampa-Metals-Hires-Oak-Hill-Financial-for-Investor-Relations-Services
- Experienced professional with proven track record of managing IT channel growth takes charge of UK & Ireland business

- Sustainability, edge computing and digital services remain key focus for channel to drive growth

- Edge Software & Digital Services Program enables resellers and IT solutions providers to create recurring revenue streams

LONDON, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Schneider Electric, the leader in digital transformation of energy management and automation, has announced the appointment of Karlton Gray as its new IT Channel Director for the UK & Ireland. Karlton is a seven-year veteran of Schneider Electric's Secure Power Division and since joining he has held numerous roles within the company, managing large-scale enterprise, corporate and e-commerce channel partners including CDW, Softcat, Comms Express, Ebuyer, CCS Media, Misco, Amazon and Bechtle.

In his new role Karlton will take charge of Schneider Electric's IT channel sales divisions across the region and will be tasked with driving continued success of Schneider Electric's Secure Power Division, which provides critical power protection, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), racks, enclosures, power distribution units (PDU) and cooling solutions for data centres, server rooms and edge computing environments. Further, its award-winning and vendor-agnostic EcoStruxure IT Software & Digital Services portfolio has been built with partners in mind, empowering IT solution providers and value added-resellers (VARs) to deliver advanced 24/7 remote monitoring, and remote/on-site support, for successful deployment, management, and maintenance of physical infrastructure at the edge.

Proven track record for sales growth

Karlton joined Schneider Electric as a Channel Account Manager in 2015, driving sales for APC, its flagship brand of physical infrastructure and software solutions via UK direct market resellers (DMR), VARs and traditional hardware resellers. In 2017 he was promoted to Senior Channel Account Manager, where he was responsible for establishing and managing relationships with partners to deliver growth across the UK and Northern Europe. Named APC UK Channel Account Manager of the year in 2019, he was promoted to Senior Enterprise Account Manager in early 2020 and became responsible for managing the company's largest enterprise customers, leading a team of channel professionals to grow its infrastructure solutions business via e-commerce, reseller and corporate partner accounts.

"I'm delighted to be named as the new Channel Director for Schneider Electric in the UK and Ireland," said Karlton Gray. "As we return to a more digital, electric world, it's clear that partner relationships have never been more important. Throughout the pandemic, the IT, data centre and communications industries have been pivotal in helping businesses adapt to remote working, and I believe many organisations will look to retain some level of hybrid operations going forward. What's crucial now is that we help our partners meet growing end-user demands, safely return to personal engagements and plan for the future."

"Whether through IT modernisation programmes, the deployment of edge computing solutions or creating new digital service propositions that address end-user skills shortages, technology has provided us with a vehicle to address key business challenges in a sustainable, energy efficient and environmentally beneficial way," he continued. "As the world's most sustainable organisation, I'm excited to be part of a company that's driving transformative change through our partners."

New program to support partner growth

Launched in April this year, Schneider Electric's Edge Software & Digital Services Program is a complete suite of benefits, support tools and certifications that enables IT solution providers to create a dedicated Managed Power Services practice. Formulated in response to the significant growth in edge computing, this new program enables IT solution providers to establish recurring revenue streams by offering remote monitoring and management of the physical infrastructure across their customers' networks, utilising Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure IT Software & Digital Services.

Core components of the Edge Software & Digital Services Program include:

Lifecycle rebates - an ongoing financial benefit for IT solution providers to reinvest in their business

- an ongoing financial benefit for IT solution providers to reinvest in their business Step-by-step operational e-guide - "The Essential Guide to Growing Your Business with Managed Power Services"

- Certification paths - educational courses designed to increase technical and business acumen related to digital remote monitoring software and service options

- educational courses designed to increase technical and business acumen related to digital remote monitoring software and service options EcoStruxure IT Software and Digital Services - access to Schneider Electric's flexible portfolio, offering advanced, 24/7 remote monitoring, and remote/on-site support

To learn more about the mySchneider IT Solutions Partner Program and Managed Power Services, visit the website.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider's purpose is to empower all to make the most of our energy and resources, bridging progress and sustainability for all. We call this Life Is On.

Our mission is to be your digital partner for Sustainability and Efficiency. We drive digital transformation by integrating world-leading process and energy technologies, end-point to cloud connecting products, controls, software and services, across the entire lifecycle, enabling integrated company management, for homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure, and industries.

We are the most local of global companies. We are advocates of open standards and partnership ecosystems that are passionate about our shared Meaningful Purpose, Inclusive, and Empowered values.

https://www.se.com/uk/en/

Discover Life Is On

Related resources on SE.com:

mySchneider IT Solutions Partner Program

Video: Edge Software & Digital Services Portfolio and Program

E-Guide: The Essential Guide to Growing your Business with Managed Power Services

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- G20 leaders gather on 30-31 October for the Rome Summit

- The Italian Presidency has prioritised people, planet and prosperity as the world heals in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic and addresses the threats of climate change

- The latest summit briefing book, G20 Italy: The Rome Summit, features high-profile voices on the world's most pressing issues

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As the world emerges from the mire of the COVID-19 pandemic, G20 leaders will gather in Rome, Italy on 30-31 October for their first in-person meeting since 2019.

The 2021 summit marks a return to face-to-face dialogue following the virtual summit that took place last year under Saudi Arabia's presidency. It comes at a critical time for humanity, with the interwoven threats of future pandemics, climate change and economic damage presenting multifaceted challenges. The G20 remains a vital forum for tackling these issues, and the leaders and their guests must reach consensus on shared commitments to build a strong, balanced, inclusive and lasting recovery from the pandemic.

The leaders will tackle a full agenda under the pillars of people, planet and prosperity. On people, they will determine how to reduce inequalities and build back better; on planet they will advance discussions on a net-zero future, and seek common ground to protect our climate and environment as COP26 gets under way in Glasgow; and on prosperity they'll focus on innovation in all areas for a bright future.

These issues are reflected in the latest summit briefing book, G20 Italy: The Rome Summit, which features prominent voices from government and civil society. Exclusive commentary includes Alberto Angel Fernandez, president of Argentina, who sets the tone by calling for wealth to be seen from a new perspective that takes planetary impact into consideration.

The title includes thought-leadership on policy priorities and sector-specific issues from a prestigious line-up of authors. Sima Bahous, executive director of UN Women, calls for the protection of Afghanistan's women, without which the country is exposing itself to accelerating poverty, violence and instability. David Beasley, executive director of the World Food Programme, plants the seeds of ideas to reach zero hunger. Elsewhere, Mathias Cormann, secretary-general of the OECD, shares how an inclusive approach to economic evolution can level the playing field and create an international environment that works for everyone.

The publication also features voices from the World Health Organization, the UN Environment Programme, the International Labour Organization and the UN World Tourism Organization, among others.

G20 Italy: The Rome Summit is an official publication of The Global Governance Project, a joint initiative between GT Media Group Ltd, a London-based publishing company, and the G20 Research Group based at the University of Toronto.

View G20 Italy: The Rome Summit online at www.bit.ly/g20it .

Twitter: @GloGovProj

Contact:

Khaled Algaay

Email: connect@globalgovernanceproject.org

Global Governance Project - GT Media Group

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1669342/G20_Italy.jpg
SHANGHAI, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- 2021 SJTU-ACEM Strategy Meeting was held in Shanghai on October 23rd. Ms. Yan Junqi, Vice Chairperson of the Standing Committee of the 12th and 13th National People's Congress, and former Chairperson of Democratic Progressive Party, and Mr. Yang Zhenbin, Chairman of SJTU University Council hosted the meeting in the morning and the afternoon sessions respectively.

Dozens of distinguished guests from political, academic and business circles worldwide attended the meeting online or offline.

Ms. Yan was delighted with and proud of the achievements made by SJTU in recent years, who affirmed the university's practice of integration into national and regional development, and expressed appreciation for ACEM's development strategy of "Two types of scholarship, horizontal (academic) and vertical (industry), reinforcing each other and connecting theory with practice" and for the new model of close combination of theory and practice based on industry research.

Mr. Jiang Wenning, Party Secretary of ACEM, expressed that by means of the Strategy Meeting, the college was keen to consolidate forces from different communities, focus on national strategy, and invite guests from all walks of life to give advice to achieve the development goals of the college and promote the high-quality development of the college in the future.

Mr. Chen Fangruo, Dean of ACEM, introduced the development process and achievements of the college, who focused on the new ideas and measures for the development of the college in the new period, and reported on the highlights of the college in subject development, industry research, technology and finance, technology transfer, as well as the future planning and layout of the college.

Mr. Yang Zhenbin remarked in his speech that SJTU adhered to the original mission of building morality and cultivating people, closely met the international academic frontier and national strategic needs, maintained a good momentum of rapid development, significantly enhanced its advantages of school education, greatly improved its social reputation, and ranked among the world's first-tier universities with its overall strength.

Then, while fully acknowledging the development of ACEM, the guests discussed the topics such as how ACEM could establish and promote industry research cooperation with the industry and the government, how to improve social influence, how to serve regional economic development better, and how to grow and transform in the context of carbon peak and carbon neutrality, and shared their opinions and suggestions on the future development of the college.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1669922/20211026092419.jpg
Joint Team Will Conduct First Large-Scale Experiments with Proton-Boron (p-B11) Fuel

FOOTHILL RANCH, Calif." Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- TAE Technologies, the world's largest private fusion energy company, today announced a landmark partnership with Japan's National Institute of Fusion Science (NIFS) that enables the two organizations to test the effects of hydrogen-boron (p-B11) fusion reactions in the NIFS Large Helical Device (LHD). The results of this research have the potential to unlock a new milestone in TAE's mission to develop commercial fusion power with p-B11, the cleanest and most affordable fuel for fusion cycles.

Fusion is the process of combining elements to release large amounts of energy. It is a carbon-free, baseload energy solution to address both climate change and the growing global energy demand.

Most fusion efforts around the world are focused on combining hydrogen isotopes deuterium-tritium (D-T) to use as fuel; the donut-shaped tokamak machines commonly used in fusion concepts are limited to D-T fuel.

In contrast, TAE's compact linear design uses an advanced beam-driven field-reversed configuration (FRC) that can accommodate all available fusion fuel cycles, including D-T and deuterium-helium-3 (D-He-3), a benefit that uniquely enables the company to license its technology on the way to its ultimate goal of connecting the first p-B11 fusion power plant to the grid by the end of this decade.

TAE is developing commercial fusion power plants using p-B11 because it is the most economical and environmentally friendly fuel cycle for fusion. P-B11 eliminates the need for breeding tritium, thus offering cleaner, safer operations while maximizing the durability and lifetime of the fusion plant. The boron in p-B11 is ubiquitous in nature, found in vast deposits in the earth's crust and sea water, and is used in detergents and other industrial commodities. The partnership between NIFS and TAE represents the first public-private fusion research using this advanced fuel.

NIFS is an inter-university research institute located in Toki City and works with preeminent organizations both in Japan and globally. TAE's scientists will collaborate with a team run by Professor Zensho Yoshida, Director General of NIFS.

The three-year joint research project, which began in September, calls for the technical teams to install sensors inside the NIFS stellarator to detect benign helium nuclei, also known as alpha particles, which are produced by p-B11 fusion reactions to monitor the internal effects of the fuel on the containment walls in order to produce the best plasma confinement and strongest, most resilient machinery for fusion power plants.

"Our partnership with NIFS is a significant opportunity to offer proof of concept for TAE's preferred fuel cycle and accelerate commercialization of p-B11 fusion, which represents the cleanest, most elegant and abundant energy source on earth," said Michl Binderbauer, CEO of TAE Technologies. "We expect this research to yield new insights that will help us further optimize our fusion platform for global adoption and long-term sustainability."

"The collaborative relations between the US and Japan started with vigor when President Carter and Prime Minister Fukuda signed a treaty on US-Japan fusion collaboration in 1978," said Toshiki Tajima, Chief Science Officer of TAE Technologies. "In particular, scientists from NIFS such as Prof. Momota visited the US to explore aneutronic fusion research in 1980s. I believe our experimental collaboration with NIFS will quickly culminate in the world's first p-B11 aneutronic fusion demonstration. This joint effort shows that the union of two complementary parties can yield an outcome greater than the sum of its parts - similar to the transformative properties of fusion energy itself."

"The development and commercialization of grid-scale fusion energy is a priority in the face of climate change," said Prof. Masaki Osakabe, Executive Director of the NIFS Large Helical Device Project. "We are excited to provide this opportunity to research the effects of advanced fuels for fusion with a leader in p-B11, and we look forward to sharing the results."

In April, TAE announced $280M in additional funding based on achieving a fusion technology milestone that gives the company a high degree of confidence that its unique compact configuration can scale to cost-competitive utility-scale fusion power.

In September, TAE launched a Power Management division, which is currently commercializing the proprietary energy storage technology that has been deployed in the company's fusion platform since 2017 for first-of-its-kind advances including residential and commercial energy storage; electric vehicle performance, range, and charging; and overall improvements to grid infrastructure to create a connected clean energy ecosystem.

ABOUT TAE TECHNOLOGIES

TAE Technologies (pronounced T-A-E) was founded in 1998 to develop commercial fusion power with the cleanest environmental profile, and represents the fastest, most practical, and economically competitive solution to bring abundant energy to the grid. With over 900 issued patents, more than $880 million in private capital, six generations of National Laboratory-scale devices, and an experienced team of over 250 employees, TAE is now on the cusp of delivering this transformational energy source capable of sustaining the planet for centuries. The company's revolutionary technologies have produced a robust portfolio of commercial innovations in other large adjacent markets such as power management, energy storage, transmission, electric mobility, life sciences, and more. TAE is based in California and maintains international offices in the UK and Switzerland. Multidisciplinary and mission-driven by nature, TAE is leveraging proprietary science and engineering to create a bright future for us all.

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1667952/TAE_Technologies_Signing_Ceremony.jpg
EASTLEIGH, UK / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / i3 Energy plc (AIM:I3E)(TSX:ITE), an independent oil and gas company with assets and operations in the UK and Canada, is pleased to provide the following update.

Highlights:

Q3 2021 average production of approximately 13,740 boepd, based on net field sales estimates, with September averaging approximately 18,985 boepd.

Inclusive of i3's current hedges, full-year 2021 net operating income ("NOI" = revenue minus royalties, opex, transportation and processing) is now forecast to be approximately USD 65.7mm, and USD 119.1mm (assuming CAD:USD 1.24) for the next twelve months ("NTM") from 1 October 2021. This increased guidance is due to lower-than-expected base declines, the results of our reactivation programme and strong commodity prices.

Dividend payments commenced during the quarter with a special dividend of 0.16 pence per share paid on 6 August 2021 and the H1 dividend of 0.2 pence per share to be paid on 29 October 2021.

Closed the strategic acquisition of approximately 8,400 barrels of oil equivalent per day ("boepd") (51% oil and NGLs) of predominantly operated, conventional, low-decline production, and a network of complementary midstream infrastructure from Cenovus Energy Inc. ("Cenovus") in i3's Central Alberta core area.

Completed a bolt-on acquisition of 230 boepd in the Wapiti area, which i3 has since increased to approximately 480 boepd through field operations.

Completed well reactivation programmes in recently acquired South Simonette and Wapiti acreage, adding approximately 970 net boepd.

Drilled and completed six wells, with two wells being drilled in each of the Marten Hills, Wapiti and Pembina areas, adding combined net production of 565 boepd, with the 15-29 Ellerslie well at Pembina still to come on production.

Majid Shafiq, CEO of i3 Energy plc, commented:

"The third quarter of 2021 continued with an intense level of activity across all fronts. We closed the transaction with Cenovus which added circa 8,400 boepd of production to our portfolio and, together with ongoing optimisation of our pre-existing asset base and some smaller transactions, we have managed quarter-on-quarter production growth and are currently producing circa 19,000 boepd.

We are now finalising our capital programme for the rest of this year and for 2022, following which we will commence deployment of free cash flow into an active, operated development drilling programme, which we expect to materially grow our production base into a very positive commodity price environment.

We are also extremely pleased to have commenced dividend payments this quarter and look forward to completing payment of our H1 2021 dividend on 29 October."

Q3 Production

Production in Q3 2021 from the pre-Cenovus acquisition assets, based on net field sales estimates, averaged 9,975 boepd (compared to 8,905 boepd in Q2 2021 and 9,090 boepd in Q1 2021), and comprised of field estimate sales equalling 34.6 million standard cubic feet of gas per day ("mmscfd"), 2,500 barrels per day ("bbl/d") of natural gas liquids, 1,490 bbl/d of oil and 215 boepd of gross overriding royalty interest production. Since acquiring its initial assets in Canada in Q3 2020, the Company has successfully implemented its strategy to offset natural field declines and grown production with a combination of efficient organic growth and small bolt on acquisitions.

Aggregate corporate production in Q3 2021 based on net field sales estimates, including 42 days production from the assets acquired from Cenovus on 20 August 2021, the closing date for that transaction, averaged approximately 13,740 boepd and comprised of net field estimate sales equalling 44.5 mmscfd, 3,990 bbl/d of natural gas liquids, 2,070 bbl/d of oil and 265 boepd of gross overriding royalty interest production

Current aggregate corporate production based on net field sales estimates and before gross overriding royalty interest production averaged approximately 18,960 boepd, for the seven-day period ending 16 October 2021, equalling 57.3 mmscfd, 5,880 bbl/d of natural gas liquids, 3,520 bbl/d of oil.

2021 and Next Twelve-Month Net Operating Income Forecast

Based on 13 October 2021 strip pricing, i3 forecasts 2021 full-year NOI of approximately USD 65.7mm and NTM NOI from 1 October 2021 of USD 119.1mm. The increase from the previous NTM NOI guidance of USD 94.8mm announced on 16 August 2021 is principally due to strong operational performance and strengthening commodity price forecasts. The forecasts assume natural decline of the Company's currently producing well stock and do not include any incremental production from development drilling, workovers, or other capital projects, which i3 is currently evaluating. The forecasts include the impact of the Company's current commodity hedging portfolio which is detailed below:

Commodity Period Quantity Type Weighted Average Price CAD Gas 01-Jun-21 30-Jun-21 3,500 GJ/d SWAP $2.7925/GJ Gas 01-Jun-21 31-Oct-21 20,500 GJ/d SWAP $2.4929/GJ Gas 01-Jul-21 31-Jul-21 3,500 GJ/d SWAP $2.7800/GJ Gas 01-Aug-21 31-Aug-21 3,500 GJ/d SWAP $2.5000/GJ Gas 01-Sep-21 30-Sep-21 3,500 GJ/d SWAP $2.7100/GJ Gas 01-Oct-21 31-Oct-21 3,500 GJ/d SWAP $2.7850/GJ Gas 01-Nov-21 31-Mar-22 25,000 GJ/d SWAP $4.2378/GJ Gas 01-Apr-22 31-Dec-22 4,000 GJ/d SWAP $3.5886/GJ Crude 01-Mar-21 31-Dec-21 350 bbl/d SWAP $64.50/bbl Crude 01-Apr-21 31-Dec-21 400 bbl/d SWAP $74.45/bbl Crude 01-Jan-22 31-Mar-22 350 bbl/d SWAP $83.04/bbl Crude 01-Apr-22 31-Dec-22 200 bbl/d SWAP $83.00/bbl Crude 01-Apr-22 31-Dec-22 300 bbl/d SWAP $93.10/bbl Propane 01-Jul-21 31-Dec-21 200 bbl/d SWAP $32.45/bbl

Acquisitions

Central Alberta Core Area Production Acquisition

The acquisition of assets from Cenovus in the Company's Central Alberta core area, as announced on 7 July 2021, closed on 20 August 2021. The transaction has an effective date of 1 April 2021 and income accrued in the period from the effective date to the closing date will be recognised as an adjustment to the consideration paid for the assets.

Wapiti Area Production Acquisition

The Company completed the Wapiti production acquisition, at an average working interest of 72%, on 20 July 2021, with a 1 April 2021 effective date.

Operations

Wapiti Area Production Acquisition Well Reactivations

These assets were producing 230 boepd at the time of i3's abovementioned acquisition. The Company completed both compression and a six well reactivation programme which resulted in material production gains. Production from the assets post reactivation more than doubled - averaging approximately 480 boepd during the month of September - considerably higher than our initial expectation of circa 300 boepd. All-in capital of approximately USD 0.1mm for the compression and reactivation programme translates to capital efficiencies of less than $600/boepd based on September production and is expected to pay out in less than 3 months.

South Simonette Well Reactivations

i3 completed on 28 May 2021 its acquisition of the entire 49.5% operated interest held by Anegada Oil Corporation in its South Simonette property. i3 now controls a 99% operated interest in the associated land base, which has a gross area of 64 km 2 . Three wells were worked over, two non-producing wells had gas-lift installed and the third an electric submersible pump. The three wells were brought back on-line in sequence and the initial 14-day production averaged approximately 730 boepd comprised of field estimate sales equalling 1.7 mmscfd, 423 bbl/d of natural gas liquids, 26 bbl/d of oil from South Simonette, meeting i3's prognosis of circa 720 boepd.

Clearwater Drilling

Marten Hills Clearwater multi-lateral wells 01-12-075-26W4 and 02-12-075-26W4 were drilled, completed, and tied into production infrastructure in late July. Average production since start-up has been approximately 110 boepd (96% oil, 4 % gas).

i3 owns a 50% working interest in these wells and has the option under the associated farm-in agreement, previously announced on 5 May 2021, to participate in an additional 7 wells, at least 4 of which will be spud by 31 March 2022, which would see i3 earn 11.5 net sections of land (circa 29.4 km2) in the Marten Hills, Cadotte and West Dawson areas of the Clearwater play.

Wapiti Elmworth Drilling

Two horizontal wells targeting the Dunvegan formation in i3's Elmworth Wapiti acreage were drilled, completed and tied in during August and September. i3 has a 50% working interest in these wells. Both wells encountered excellent reservoir quality and were drilled and completed on time and budget. The first well 09-17-071-10W6 was on-stream on 27 September 2021 and the second well 08-17-071-10W6 commenced production on 30 September 2021. Average production from the two wells since clean-up and over the 14-day period between 7 October 2021 and 20 October 2021 was approximately 190 boepd, which exceeded pre-drill expectations of circa 175 boepd.

Pembina Area Drilling

Wells 14-29-049-10W5 and 15-29-049-10W5 in the Pembina area were drilled, completed, and tied in during August and September. Each of these 2,850m Ellerslie Formation horizontals encountered excellent porosity ranging from 6-12% porosity. i3 has a 33% working interest in these wells. The 14-29-049-10W5 well was tied in to i3's Lodgepole facility in September and initially produced at an average rate of approximately 260 boepd net to i3 during the 14-day period between 8 September 2021 and 30 September 2021. The strong results exhibited by the 14-29 well continue to outperform i3 expectations. The second well will be brought on production following the overhaul of a compression unit in the production facility, which is expected to occur in November.

Remaining 2021 and 2022 Capital Programme

Following completion of the acquisition of the Cenovus assets, the Company is evaluating the expanded portfolio of potential development drilling locations and is preparing a capital budget for the remainder of 2021 and the full year 2022. Guidance on the programme, budget, and expected impact on production and cashflow forecasts will be provided later in the year.

Serenity Appraisal Drilling Farmout

Discussions continue with potential farm-in partners for the Serenity field appraisal drilling programme. Terms have been agreed and we await confirmation of funding commitments from counterparties, which we expect before year-end 2021, before finalising and executing documentation. The market will be updated if and when agreements are reached.

Environment, Social and Governance ("ESG")

i3 has commenced a strategic review of its ESG objectives and targets. This will lead to the publication of the Company's maiden sustainability report in Q1 of 2022. In the meantime, the Company continues to pursue carbon emission reduction initiatives to meet and exceed current regulatory requirements. As part of this programme, i3 has replaced 354 pneumatic controllers, which previously used natural gas as the fluid, with low bleed controllers or instrument air. An additional 35 controllers are pending replacement in the near term. The Company is an active participant in the Government of Alberta's Site Rehabilitation Program ("SRP") and Saskatchewan's Accelerated Site Closure Programme ("ASCP"). Through i3's involvement in the SRP and ASCP, the Company has received grants to date exceeding CAD 2.4mm, which are dedicated to accelerating the closure of inactive wells, pipelines and facility liabilities. CAD 0.86mm of this has been deployed to date to abandon 25 wells and 2 pipelines. The Company is actively advancing a programme to deploy the remaining CAD 1.5mm which will further reduce the Company's overall future decommissioning liability.

Dividends

i3 commenced dividend payments during the quarter, with a special dividend of 0.16 pence per share paid on 6 August 2021 and following publication of the Company's Interim Report in September, i3 declared an H1 2021 dividend of 0.20 pence per share with an ex-dividend date of 7 October 2021 and payment date of 29 October 2021.

Qualified Person's Statement

In accordance with the AIM Note for Mining and Oil and Gas Companies, i3 discloses that Majid Shafiq is the qualified person who has reviewed the technical information contained in this document. He has a Master's Degree in Petroleum Engineering from Heriot-Watt University and is a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers. Majid Shafiq consents to the inclusion of the information in the form and context in which it appears.

Enquiries:

i3 Energy plc Majid Shafiq (CEO) / Graham Heath (CFO) c/o Camarco

Tel: +44 (0) 203 781 8331 WH Ireland Limited (Nomad and Joint Broker) James Joyce, Darshan Patel Tel: +44 (0) 207 220 1666 Canaccord Genuity Limited (Joint Broker) Henry Fitzgerald- O'Connor, James Asensio Tel: +44 (0) 207 523 8000 Tennyson Securities (Joint Broker)

Peter Krens Tel: +44 (0) 207 186 9030 Camarco

Owen Roberts, James Crothers, Violet Wilson

Tel: +44 (0) 203 781 8331

Notes to Editors:

i3 Energy is an oil and gas Company with a low cost, diversified, growing production base in Canada's most prolific hydrocarbon region, the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin and appraisal assets in the North Sea with significant upside.

The Company is well positioned to deliver future growth through the optimisation of its existing 100% owned asset base and the acquisition of long life, low decline conventional production assets.

i3 is dedicated to responsible corporate practices and the environment, and places high value on adhering to strong Environmental, Social and Governance ("ESG") practices. i3 is proud of its performance to date as a responsible steward of the environment, people, and capital management. The Company is committed to maintaining an ESG strategy, which has broader implications to long-term value creation, as these benefits extend beyond regulatory requirements.

i3 Energy is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange under the symbol I3E and on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ITE. For further information on i3 Energy please visit https://i3.energy/

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside informationunder the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

SOURCE: i3 Energy PLC

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669636/i3-Energy-PLC-Announces-Q3-Operational-and-Financial-Update
Plymouth, Massachusetts--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Plymouth Rock Technologies Inc. (CSE: PRT) (OTCQB: PLRTF) (FSE: 4XA) (WKN# A2N8RH) ("Plymouth Rock", "PRT", or the "Company"), a leader in developing detection apparatus and unmanned technologies, is pleased to announce the delivery of several new orders for environmental monitoring and Petrochemical inspection.

Environmental monitoring will be carried out with PRT X-Lite series drones, equipped with a winch and collection cup for deep water sampling. This will study plastic particulates in water and other microbiological impact. The drones will be operated by Swiss University, ETH Zurich.

The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) for petrochemical inspection will be used in Saudi Arabia for essential ultrasound testing of infrastructure at some of the world's highest volume petrochemical plants which includes those owned by Saudi Aramco oil. The petrochemical sale is in collaboration with the Tetra / PRT partner Tritex NDT UK.

"The design approach to our overall UAS product platform has yielded the flexibility to allow the company to address the above markets. We believe that these applications will soon extend to offshore oil and natural gas platform inspection, wind farms, and other remote infrastructure locations," stated Carl Cagliarini, Chief Strategy Officer at PRT.

"This is a significant step in our company's growth strategy as we have taken our UAS platform from an R&D phase to revenue generating commercial products," stated Dana Wheeler, President & CEO of PRT.

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/100837
LONDON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- GSK Consumer Healthcare today unveils a three-year programme to support the pharmacy profession with additional practical resources, mental health provisions and proposed policy changes as part of its new report Standing with Pharmacists in the Age of Self-Care.

The new report summarises findings from a roundtable hosted by GSK Consumer Healthcare in collaboration with the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) earlier this year, which convened the pharmacy community, policy experts, and industry leaders to discuss the critical role of pharmacy in the age of self-care following the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We've seen COVID-19 have a significant impact on consumers' understanding of self-care, leading to an increased focus on wellbeing and everyday healthcare. During this time, pharmacies played a vital role in providing care and advice to their patients - particularly with many other health facilities closed. Our research shows that more than half of Europeans are planning to consult their pharmacist more often than before the pandemic. Yet in general, pharmacists remain under-utilised, despite being the most widely distributed health resource in Europe," said Tess Player, Global Head of Expert at GSK Consumer Healthcare.

The report identifies six barriers faced by the global pharmacy community that can prevent them from fulfilling their critical role. These are: workload; remuneration; limited education on disease prevention; public misperceptions of pharmacists' expertise; integration challenges within the wider healthcare system; and support for identifying and addressing low health literacy among health consumers.

To tackle these issues, GSK Consumer Healthcare is unveiling a three-year commitment programme advocating for pharmacy policy and regulation change, and offering a range of bespoke support, training, and tools for pharmacists to help them address the barriers identified in the roundtable.

Year 1 (2021-22): Focus will be on providing mental health and wellbeing support for pharmacists and pharmacy teams. This will also include the development of behavioural change tools and guidance for pharmacists in self-care conversations.

Focus will be on providing mental health and wellbeing support for pharmacists and pharmacy teams. This will also include the development of behavioural change tools and guidance for pharmacists in self-care conversations. Year 2 (2022-2023): Focus will be on helping pharmacists to manage their workload and wellbeing through the development of patient information and diagnostic tools. Year 2 will also include helping pharmacists identify and support health literacy challenges via a health literacy assessment tool.

Focus will be on helping pharmacists to manage their workload and wellbeing through the development of patient information and diagnostic tools. Year 2 will also include helping pharmacists identify and support health literacy challenges via a health literacy assessment tool. Year 3 (2023-2024): Focus will be on continuing to improve public awareness of the role of pharmacists in self-care among health consumers. This will include working with pharmacists to develop resources that improve health literacy, including public awareness initiatives and community health tracking.

GSK Consumer Healthcare's commitment will be underpinned by an ongoing advocacy programme to support policy and regulatory change, aligned with the recommendations from the round table and designed to tackle each of the six barreirs faced by the global pharmacy community.

"We are proud partners to pharmacists everywhere and are committed to supporting the global pharmacy community to fulfil its critical role in building public health literacy and providing expert care. Our three-year plan is only the beginning; we have spent years working with experts to gain a better understanding of the barriers the pharmacy community faces and how we can empower them to fulfil their utmost potential," Tess Player continued.

The programme is part of the company's long-standing commitment to supporting the pharmacy community. In September 2020, GSK Consumer Healthcare released a Statement of Intent on the vital role of pharmacists in the future success of healthcare systems worldwide.

"The COVID-19 pandemic accentuated the crucial role pharmacists play in consumers' self-care routines. Self-care involves a variety of actions that patients take to manage their health. Pharmacists play an important role in guiding patient's self-care behaviours. Thorough assessment and effective communication are crucial to meaningful self-care counselling. Pharmacists can act as advocates who empower patients and help them make healthy lifestyle choices, recommend appropriate OTC medications, and educate consumers about when they should consult a physician," said Lars-Ake Soderlund, Vice President of the International Pharmaceutical Federation, FIP.

"As the global healthcare system continues to evolve, self-care is expected to have an increasing role in treating certain minor ailments, and pharmacists are at the forefront of these changes, and can lead the 'self-care revolution'", Soderlund continued.

For more details on GSK Consumer Healthcare's work in supporting the pharmacy industry, and to read the full report, including the three-year commitments, please visit https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/gsk-healthpartner-hcp/

About GSK Consumer Healthcare

GSK Consumer Healthcare combines science and consumer insights to create innovative world-class health care brands that consumers trust and experts recommend for oral health, pain relief, respiratory and wellness. For further information please visit www.gsk.com.

About FIP

The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through our 146 member organisations, we represent over four million practitioners and scientists around the world. Our vision is a world where everyone benefits from access to safe, effective, quality and affordable medicines and pharmaceutical care. www.fip.org

Media contact

Caitlin Kormann

GSK Consumer Healthcare

Caitlin.e.kormann@gsk.com

+1 732 215 6564
MOSCOW, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Russian scientists have come up with an easy and cost-efficient method for obtaining industry-grade silicon carbide from wood processing waste. The study was published in Materials Chemistry and Physics.

Silicon carbide is an exceedingly hard, synthetically produced crystalline compound of silicon and carbon. It occurs in nature as the extremely rare mineral moissanite. Silicon carbide is nearly as hard as diamond, wear-resistant, heat and radiation proof.

Metallurgy is one of the major silicon carbide consumers. It is widely used in the manufacture of high-temperature bricks and other refractories. In addition to hardness, silicon carbide crystals have fracture characteristics that make them extremely useful in grinding wheels and in abrasive paper and cloth products. This compound is also used in the jewelry industry, construction, bulletproof vest production, automotive industry, etc.

An advantage of biomorphic carbides is their production from a renewable wood-derived carbon. Different biomorphic carbides have already been derived from various types of wood and grain crops: beech, oak, sapele, pine, linden, corn stover, millet, etc. Recently, attempts have been made to synthesize biomorphic silicon carbide from various industrial materials: fibreboards, paper, compressed wood-powder composite boards, cast bamboo cellulose, etc.

However, current technologies of biomorphic silicon carbide production are imperfect. The properties of the synthesized products are often unpredictable. Moreover, the conventional methods of silicon carbide production from charcoal are time-consuming.

Scientists from NUST MISIS and Tomsk Polytechnic University have come up with a method for obtaining high-quality silicon carbide from charcoal and silicon in plasma of direct current low-voltage arc discharge in ambient air using an electric-arc reactor with graphite electrodes.

It was found that the three-fold arc processing during 25-30 seconds each at a current of 220 A allows a complete transformation of initial silicon into its carbide. The fabricated phase of silicon carbide can be purified from the synthesis product by annealing of the material in the atmospheric furnace at 800 C. An important advantage of the proposed method is the simplicity of the synthesis process, which doesn't require a sealed chamber, inert gases or a vacuum pump. Another important advantage is that synthesis takes very little time (from seconds up to several minutes) compared to the conventional methods. In addition, the initial source of carbon is an available material, namely, wood waste.

The powder obtained had optimal lattice parameters and was morphologically similar to charcoal. The disadvantage of the produced material is the presence of a surface oxide layer, which is characteristic of both the proposed method and materials based on silicon carbide obtained using other approaches. However, this disadvantage can be compensated for by treatment of the powder with an alkaline solution.

"Scientists don't always manage to obtain a useful, expensive compound from a cheap secondary raw material. We've managed to synthesize a valuable, expensive product from cheap wood processing waste. This method not only allows the synthesis of high-quality industry-grade silicon carbide, but also offers a solution for wood processing waste management," noted Alexander Gromov, the NUST MISIS team lead and head of MISIS Catalysis Lab.

Link: https://en.misis.ru/university/news/science/2021-10/7621/

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/955872/NUST_MISIS_Logo.jpg
Systems integration will soon cost more than actual private cellular infrastructure

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- According to new research published by global technology intelligence firm ABI Research, professional service revenues for Private 5G enterprise networks will grow from US$58 million in 2021 to US$5.8 billion in 2026, while connectivity revenues will only amount to US$5 billion in the same timeframe. Deployments for energy generation (oil & gas, mining, and power plants), industrial manufacturing and logistics are the main drivers behind system integration revenue. These verticals are early adopters of private 5G network deployments and are characterized by a high degree of complexity and stringent performance requirements.

"These service revenues highlight the fact that providing enterprise-grade 5G will be much more than just supplying enterprises with connectivity," says Leo Gergs, Senior Analyst, 5G Markets at ABI Research. "The true value proposition for enterprise 5G does not lie in the connectivity technology itself, but rather in the applications that in enables. After all, a small or medium sized manufacturer or warehouse owner primarily cares about things like increasing the Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE), reducing machine downtime, or boosting production flexibility. Whether this is enabled by 4G or 5G connectivity, or even non-cellular technologies, like Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, is of much lower importance to enterprise customers."

Enterprises' interest in applications, rather than technology, has two important business implications. First, 5G needs to be provided as one component alongside different technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Edge Computing, data storage, and security technologies, raising the bar for potential suppliers of a such a digitization platform. Gergs explains "Orchestrating and integrating all different components will become an important skill itself. While traditional System Integrators like IBM, Accenture, Capgemini, Tech Mahindra, or Worldwide Technologies enjoy an incumbent advantage, they must stay alert to protect their share. Hyperscalers like AWS, Google Anthos, or Microsoft Azure are extending their partnership network with their respective marketplace platforms and gain market traction.

Second, an enterprise digitization platform needs to be based on a completely different business model to be appealing to enterprises. As such, a successful business model should distinguish between the provision of the platform infrastructure alongside the provision of enterprise applications and services. "The telco industry needs to provide entire enterprise-grade applications as a Service, combining Network-as-a-Service and Software-as-a-Service business models. Key to this is a strong relationship to software developers. Hyperscalers are miles ahead of the telco industry here, so operators and infrastructure vendors will need to catch up," Gergs concludes.

These findings are from ABI Research's The Role of 5G for Enterprise ICT Systems application analysis report. This report is part of the company's 5G Markets research service, which includes research, data, and analyst insights. Based on extensive primary interviews, Application Analysis reports present in-depth analysis on key market trends and factors for a specific technology.

About ABI Research

ABI Research is a global technology intelligence firm delivering actionable research and strategic guidance to technology leaders, innovators, and decision makers around the world. Our research focuses on the transformative technologies that are dramatically reshaping industries, economies, and workforces today.

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For more information about ABI Research's services, contact us at +1.516.624.2500 in the Americas, +44.203.326.0140 in Europe, +65.6592.0290 in Asia-Pacific or visit www.abiresearch.com.

Contact Info :

Global

Deborah Petrara

Tel: +1.516.624.2558

pr@abiresearch.com

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Synergy to improve communication resilience, ensure dependable secure Mesh Networks, integral to enhancing communication infrastructure, enabling secure autonomous systems

Technology Innovation Institute (TII), the applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi's Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), today announced that its Secure Systems Research Centre (SSRC) has partnered with three prestigious universities on secure mesh communications research projects.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005550/en/

Dr. Shreekant (Ticky) Thakkar Chief Researcher Secure Systems Research Centre (Photo: AETOSWire)

Mesh network is a network topology in which the infrastructure nodes connect directly, dynamically, and non-hierarchically to as many other nodes as possible, and cooperate with one another to efficiently route data to and from third parties. The project is set to strengthen the security of the Mesh network technology that TII is currently developing for machine to machine and human to human communications.

The three partner universities include the UAE's Khalifa University of Science and Technology, a world-class research institution that nurtures critical thinkers in applied science and engineering, University of Turku in Turku, Finland, and Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) in Styria, Austria. The Khalifa University project is titled 'A Secure and Resilient Chat/VoIP Application over Private Mesh Networks'. Meanwhile, the University of Turku project focuses on 'R3Swarms: Robust, Resilient and Reconfigurable Swarms', and the project with TU Graz is titled 'SPiDR: Secure, Performant, Dependable, and Resilient Wireless Mesh Networks'.

Speaking on the significance of this development for the UAE and the wider region, Dr Shreekant (Ticky) Thakkar, Chief Researcher at SSRC, said: "In the UAE we conduct research to provide technology that improves life through making systems and communications safer. This is of the utmost importance when technologies combine human, physical systems, and software interactions. Mesh Network Research conducted with our partners in Turku University, TU Graz, and Khalifa University will accelerate the deployment of safe communication for the benefit of people living in the UAE and the wider region."

Dr Thakkar said the collaborations with Turku University and TU Graz will span the domain of communication resilience improvement through exploring, among other aspects, UWB (Ultra-wideband) transmissions, while the partnership with Khalifa University focuses on PHY (Physical layer) security and secure routing. A total of four research programmes are getting underway to provide a significant improvement in the ability of Mesh Networks to resist eavesdropping, scanning, malware propagation and jamming, among other threats. As a direct application, these benefits are critical for cyber physical system swarm communications to become credible and resilient when operating autonomously, Dr Thakkar added.

He noted that dependable and secure Mesh Networks are an integral part of overall communication infrastructure and will enable secure autonomous systems.

Dr Carlo Boano, Associate Professor, Institute of Technical Informatics, TU Graz, said: "The technologies developed within SPiDR will empower off-the-shelf drones and smartphones with the ability to autonomously detect and mitigate malicious attacks and coexistence problems, thereby increasing their availability and functionality without adding to the costs of operating them."

Dr Tomi Westerlund, Associate Professor, Smart Systems at University of Turku, said: "The project with SSRC focuses on exploiting and advancing state-of-the-art technologies including, but not limited to, DL, DLT, and UWB, as the basis to design and build more secure, flexible, robust, resilient, and reconfigurable swarms."

For his part, Dr Hadi Otrok, Associate Professor, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Khalifa University, said: "Through this project, we aim to build efficiencies and address earlier shortcomings by developing efficient chat and VoIP applications within secure and resilient Mesh Networks."

For more information, visit www.tii.ae

*Source: AETOSWire

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005550/en/

Contacts:

Technology Innovation Institute

Hanz Valbuena

comms@atrc.ae
- Baker Hughes joins rollcall of international energy leaders transforming SPARK into gateway to MENA region energy market

KHOBAR, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SPARK, the world-class ecosystem in the heart of the energy market, welcomed Baker Hughes as it broke ground on its Oilfield Services Regional Hub, the largest assembly, maintenance, and overhaul hub the global energy technology company has anywhere in the world. This is the latest in a line of firsts at the SPARK mega project since its launch in 2018 and gives added weight to the energy industrial city's commitment to contributing over $6 billion annually to the Saudi GDP and the creation of thousands of new highly skilled job opportunities.

SPARK's President and CEO, Saif S. Al-Qahtani, stated: "We are delighted to partner with a prominent energy player such as Baker Hughes as they commence construction of this ambitious and impressive regional hub. We commend them for the passion and commitment they bring to our partnership, which creates further momentum as we put in place the infrastructure, support and services that ensure investors of all sizes can easily participate in Saudi Arabia's energy sector."

Since its establishment, SPARK has signed agreements with multiple major international and national energy companies, representing investments worth over $2 billion in less than two years, which is a testament to the trust of its partners. The 300,000 sq m regional hub will support Baker Hughes' Oilfield Services operations and customers across the Middle East, adding further reassurance to SPARK investors that they are joining a world-class energy ecosystem where they will have full access to, and ease of participation in, the energy value chain in Saudi Arabia.

"Baker Hughes is committed to supporting Saudi Vision 2030 and Aramco's iktva program. These programs drive localization through job creation, supply chain development and export enablement, and further emphasize Saudi Arabia's position as a global energy hub," said Lorenzo Simonelli, Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes. "Today's milestone reflects our continued efforts to transform our core capabilities to ensure we deliver to Saudi Aramco and other regional customers with speed, efficiency and operational excellence."

The facility adds to Baker Hughes' existing presence at SPARK, after construction began in 2020 on "Novel"; Baker Hughes' JV with Aramco to develop and commercialize a broad range of non-metallic products for multiple applications in the energy sector. SPARK aims to advance sustainable innovation in the energy sector by creating a conducive environment to enhance local production and be competitive globally. This mission is integral to the city's design and operations, with a Non-Metallic Hub and Association Center centrally located in the SPARK city masterplan.

About King Salman Energy Park (SPARK)

King Salman Energy Park (SPARK) is a fully integrated industrial ecosystem. SPARK spans an area of 50 square kilometres and is being developed with a vision to become the leading gateway to the regional energy sector, providing a complete spectrum of solutions to support business growth in the Kingdom. SPARK is also the first and only industrial city in the world to achieve silver LEED certification.

SPARK offers infrastructure at international standards for global investors in the oil & gas, refining, petrochemical, power and water production and treatment industries.

Execution is planned over three phases; with the first phase being nearly complete, which consists of infrastructure, roads, utilities and real estate assets established across 14 square kilometres. This is in addition to a dedicated three-square kilometres dry port and logistics zone.

www.spark-ksa.com

About Baker Hughes

Baker Hughes (NYSE: BKR) is an energy technology company that provides solutions for energy and industrial customers worldwide. Built on a century of experience and with operations in over 120 countries, our innovative technologies and services are taking energy forward - making it safer, cleaner and more efficient for people and the planet. Visit us at bakerhughes.com.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1670086/SPARK_Baker_Hughes.jpg
TACOMA, WA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / IONIC BRANDS CORP. (CSE:IONC) (OTC PINK:IONKF)(FRA:IB3A) ("IONIC BRANDS' or the "Company") is a regional manufacturer of innovative cannabis consumables and concentrate extract products. The Company is pleased to announce the launch of 'ZOOTS NRg+CBD', an Energy Shot beverage with added CBD. ZOOTS is the premium consumables brand within the IONIC BRANDS portfolio.

John Gorst, IONIC BRANDS CEO and chairman commented, "We are excited to add the ZOOTS NRg+CBD Energy Shot to the ZOOTS line of products. ZOOTS has a long history and devoted following in the Pacific Northwest, and as our premium consumxable brand, this feels like a natural expansion into the national market. The same high-quality mindset that goes into all ZOOTS products has driven the development of the THC-free NRg+CBD shot, and we look forward to expanding our high-quality, lab tested CBD products with the ZOOTS brand."

ZOOTS NRg+CBD is a great way to add a dose of CBD into your daily routine. It's formulated with yerba mate, guarana, and lemon balm. This blend of natural functional enhancers alleviates stress, improves mental focus, and delivers a clear and balanced boost of energy - without the unwanted caffeine jitters or crash. The ZOOTS NRg+CBD shot combines the benefits of CBD with the energy boost you need to get through your day.

ZOOTS NRg+CBD shots utilize nano-emulsified CBD extract for increased bioavailability - resulting in an energy boost that is fast-acting and long-lasting and will get you through even your busiest of days. Each shot contains 60mg of CBD and comes in a convenient 2 oz bottle that's small enough to fit inside your pocket - so you can enjoy the refreshing combination of energy and CBD while on the go.

The ZOOTS NRg+CBD Energy shot is now available and can be found in approved states via a direct-to-consumer website, ZOOTSCBD.COM, and in select stores in Washington State.

About Ionic Brands Corp.

The Company is dedicated to building a regionally based multi-state consumer packaged goods company with a highly respected cannabis concentrate brand portfolio with strong roots in the premium and luxury segments of vape, concentrates, flower and consumables. The cornerstone Brand of the portfolio, IONIC, is a top concentrates brand in Washington State along with its economy brand Dabulous and has aggressively expanded throughout the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The brand is currently operating in Washington and Oregon. IONIC BRANDS' strategy is to be the leader of the highest-value segments of the cannabis market.

On behalf of IONIC BRANDS CORP.

John Gorst

Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

For more information visit www.ionicbrands.com or contact:

investor.relations@ionicbrands.com

+1.253.248.7927

To stay better informed on the current events of the company, you can join our investor community at https://www.ionicbrands.com/investor-community

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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking statements." Such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in the industry to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects," "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management of IONIC BRANDS CORP. at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive risks, uncertainties and contingencies that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Applicable risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: changes in State and/or municipal regulations of retail operations and changes in government regulations generally; the price for cannabis and related products will remain consistent and the consumer demand remains strong; availability of financing to the Company to develop retail locations; risks related to the COVID-19 global pandemic; retention of key employees and management; market risks; concentration risks; operating history; competition; the risks associated with international and foreign operations and the other risks identified under the headings "Risks and Uncertainties" in the management discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2020 and the three months ended March 31, 2021, each as filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. IONIC BRANDS CORP. is not under any obligation, and expressly disclaims any intention or obligation, to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. Ionic Brands Corp. operates in states that have implemented certain ownership restrictions that could have an implied negative impact on IFRS financial reporting results. Management continues to review compliance regulations in those states where these restrictions exist and will report on all operating activities from directly and indirectly owned operations or non-consolidated parties' operations.

SOURCE: IONIC BRANDS CORP.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669653/IONIC-BRANDS-CORP-Launches-Direct-To-Consumer-Site-with-First-of-Several-CBD-Consumables
BRUSSELS/FRANKFURT/PARIS (dpa-AFX) - German stocks rose sharply on Tuesday as strong earnings updates helped outweigh fresh worries about China's property sector. The benchmark DAX jumped 172 points, or 1.10 percent, to 15,771 after rising 0.4 percent in the previous session. Kion Group jumped nearly 6 percent. The manufacturer of materials handling equipment backed its FY21 view after a very strong nine-month period. Commerzbank traded flat and Deutsche Bank rose over 1 percent after Swiss bank UBS posted its best quarterly profit since 2015, helped by robust trading activity. Evotec dropped 1.2 percent. The biotechnology company said it expects 9-month revenue from contracts with customers to be in the range of 425 million euros- 435 million euros, significantly higher than 360.4 million posted in the same period last year. Residential real estate company Vonovia gained half a percent after saying it has successfully completed its public takeover offer to the shareholders of Deutsche Wohnen SE. Shares of the latter were up about 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.
Impression-Based, Cross-Platform Solution for Linear, Streaming Addressable Now Available in Europe's Largest TV Ad Markets

TVSquared today announced the launch of ADvantage XP in the UK and Germany, bringing Europe's largest advertising markets the first cross-platform measurement and attribution solution for all forms of TV linear, streaming and addressable. ADvantage XP is an always-on, scalable platform that offers consistent, independent, impression-based measurement of ad exposure and outcomes for converged TV campaigns.

Through direct publisher integrations and smart TV viewership data, TVSquared has amassed the largest global coverage of converged TV, which now includes millions of households in the UK and Germany. As a result, TVSquared links exposure and outcomes to authenticated households and audience IDs to harmonize measurement across platforms.

ADvantage XP provides cross-platform reach and frequency metrics, quantifies incremental reach, including additional streaming households reached beyond linear, and delivers attribution insights that empower marketers to measure KPIs including sales, registrations, app activities, website visits and more. TVSquared is also GDPR compliant and a registered member of IAB Europe's Transparency Consent Framework (TCF).

"TV is redefining itself in real time, and advertisers need a consistent way to count and ascribe value across platforms," said Jo Kinsella, president, TVSquared. "Sitting at the center of the TV ecosystem, TVSquared is well positioned to leverage the right data sources and deliver consistent measurement and attribution through our scalable, unified platform. Globally, the adoption of converged TV strategies is at the forefront of marketers' minds, and we are excited to support that momentum with the launch of ADvantage XP in the UK and Germany."

The launch of ADvantage XP in Europe comes on the heels of a new report "The State of Converged TV: A Look at Global Trends Adoption" released by TVSquared, in collaboration with third-party research firm, Dynata. Surveying close to 500 buy-side marketers in the UK and Germany, the report revealed that more than 80% of respondents said that achieving cross-platform TV measurement and attribution was a top priority. This finding was backed by the recognition of over 80% of marketers that "TV" is now defined as linear and streaming, and that all forms of it should be sold on impressions.

Download a copy of "The State of Converged TV: A Look at Global Trends Adoption."

About TVSquared

TVSquared is the largest independent global measurement and attribution platform for converged TV. Our infinitely scalable ADvantage platform measures the effectiveness of linear, addressable and OTT/CTV. We power always-on insights for thousands of advertisers across 75+ countries, including reach and frequency, unique reach, outcomes and audience. Integrated across premium publishers, DSPs and identity and audience partners, our platform processes billions of ad impressions, connecting viewership and ad occurrence data at scale. We deliver the richest picture of TV ad measurement and attribution, inclusive of 150M households globally and more than 65 CTV platforms. Trusted by the entire TV ecosystem as the single source of truth, TVSquared measures TV how people watch it across platforms and screens. For more information, visit www.tvsquared.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005587/en/

Contacts:

Media

Megan Garnett Coyle

TVSquared

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megan@tvsquared.com
SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global automotive powertrain market size is expected to reach USD 1,125.66 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is anticipated to register a CAGR of 11.6% from 2021 to 2025. The increasing demand for environment-friendly vehicles and increasingly stringent government regulations regarding vehicular emission are expected to favor the demand for automotive powertrains in the market. Moreover, technological advancements in powertrain systems to enhance the vehicle's efficiency are anticipated to boost market growth prospects over the forecast period.

Key Insights & Findings:

In terms of vehicle type, the commercial vehicle segment is expected to expand at the highest CAGR of around 11.7% over the forecast period. This can be attributed to the increasing demand for a unified supply chain network connecting multiple transportation modes, including freight rail, air, and express delivery services, maritime transport, and truck transport

In terms of propulsion type, the ICE segment dominated the market in 2020 and is anticipated to value at more than USD 902.91 billion by 2028. This can be attributed to the price difference between ICEs and EVs and inadequate charging infrastructure

The Asia Pacific regional market held the dominant market share in 2020, with the China market being a significant contributor. China remains the largest manufacturer of automobiles and automotive markets across the globe. In 2020, China ranked first in terms of the production of passenger cars globally, which stood at nearly 21 million

Read 110 page market research report, "Automotive Powertrain Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Vehicle Type (Passenger Vehicle, Commercial Vehicle), By Propulsion Type (ICE, Electric Vehicle), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021 - 2025', by Grand View Research

The adoption rate and pace of evolution of automotive powertrain vary across regions according to purchase subsidies, regulatory differences, road pricing, fuel taxation policy, state support, and consumer preferences. In Europe and countries such as China, South Korea, and Japan, stringent regulations are expected to make OEMs shift their focus on electrified powertrain options. Other significant factors that constitute the evolution of powertrain include developing charging infrastructure in different regions globally.

Increasing vehicle sales and the growing adoption of automated transmission vehicles in emerging countries such as India, China, Indonesia, Japan, and Brazil, are expected to drive the market. The substantial rise in the purchasing power of consumers has increased the demand for state-of-the-art motor vehicles, driving the demand for upgraded systems. The rising use of All Wheel Drive in SUVs in emerging regions is also expected to support the growth of the powertrain market. The growing demand for AWD-equipped vehicles in the Asia Pacific region is expected to boost the growth of the all-wheel-drive system market.

The COVID-19 pandemic has hampered the growth prospects of several industries in 2020; powertrain manufacturers are facing a year-on-year decline in unit volumes sales and revenues. For instance, BorgWarner Inc., a prominent market player in the electric powertrain market, witnessed a decrease in the e-Propulsion & Drivetrain business segment. However, the demand for vehicles with upgraded safety features is likely to increase post-pandemic. Since automotive powertrain plays a vital role in automobiles, the market could regain momentum. Furthermore, despite the pandemic, the growing demand for electric vehicles is anticipated to boost the demand for automotive powertrains.

Grand View Research has segmented the global automotive powertrain market based on vehicle type, propulsion type, and region:

Automotive Powertrain Vehicle Type Outlook (Volume, Thousand Units; Revenue, USD Billion, 2015 - 2025)

Passenger Vehicle



Commercial Vehicle

Automotive Powertrain Propulsion Type Outlook (Volume, Thousand Units; Revenue, USD Billion, 2015 - 2025)

ICE



Gasoline



Diesel



Natural Gas Vehicle



BEV



PHEV



Electric Vehicle

Automotive Powertrain Regional Outlook (Volume, Thousand Units; Revenue, USD Billion, 2015 - 2025)

North America



U.S.





Canada



Europe



Germany





U.K.



Asia Pacific



Greater China





Japan





India





South Korea



Latin America



Middle East & Africa

List of Key Players in the Automotive Powertrain Market

BorgWarner

Continental AG

Magna International Inc.

Marelli Holdings Co., Ltd.

Mitsubishi Electric Corp

Nidec Corporation

Robert Bosch GmbH

Schaeffler AG

Valeo

ZF Friedrichshafen AG

Browse through Grand View Research's coverage of the Global Automotive & Transportation Industry :

Electric Powertrain Market - The global electric powertrain market size was valued at USD 71.86 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 33.5% from 2021 to 2028.

The global electric powertrain market size was valued at in 2020 and is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 33.5% from 2021 to 2028. Automotive Transmission Market - The global automotive transmission market size was valued at USD 152.32 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2021 to 2028.

The global automotive transmission market size was valued at in 2020 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.2% from 2021 to 2028. Internal Combustion Engine Market - The global internal combustion engine (ICE) market demand was pegged at 157,105 thousand units in 2017 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 4.9% from 2018 to 2025.

Gain access to Grand View Compass , our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports

About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

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BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Cultured meat has come a long way since 2013. What was once a concept from the realms of science fiction, made in tiny quantities in research labs for astronomical costs has now become an emerging industry, with start-ups across the world racing to become the first to successfully produce cultured meat on a commercial scale. Companies are now routinely carrying out taste tests of cultured meat products and, if you were lucky enough to get a reservation at the 1880 restaurant in Singapore in early 2021, cultured chicken nuggets could even be ordered, following the regulatory approval for cultured meat produced by Californian start-up Eat Just, Inc.

Cultured meat, otherwise known as cultivated meat, cell-based meat, or clean meat, is an emerging technology area that involves using cultured animal cells to create meat-like food products. Unlike plant-based meat or other meat analogs, cultured meat is produced from the same cells as conventional meat and can theoretically provide an exact replica of the real thing, without requiring animal slaughter and at a fraction of the environmental cost. Over the last few years, enthusiasm around the cultured meat industry and its potential to disrupt the $1 trillion conventional meat industry has been growing. Since 2015, the sector has raised over $600 million in funding, growing from less than five companies to over fifty in the same time frame.

There are now cultured meat companies on every continent, other than Antarctica, and cultured meat has even been produced in space (more on that later). This article takes a look at the global picture of cultured meat, exploring how the emerging technology is evolving across the world. "Cultured Meat 2021-2041", a new report from IDTechEx, explores the world of cultured meat, providing regional level analysis on markets and regulations and forecasting the next 20 years of the cultured meat industry.

North America

Home to industry heavyweights such as Eat Just, UPSIDE Foods (formerly Memphis Meats), and BlueNalu, the US is the undisputed powerhouse of the cultured meat industry. Mostly stemming from the activity of US companies, North America has seen a surge of investor funding, with the region being overrepresented in terms of money raised - despite only having around 40% of the world's cultured meat companies, North America has seen 57% of the fundraising.

This investor enthusiasm stems in part from the growing popularity of meat alternatives in the US. For example, the US plant-based meat industry has grown rapidly over the last five years, stemming from increasing consumer awareness around health and nutrition and concerns over the sustainability of the global meat industry, something that has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic (for more analysis of the global plant-based meat industry, see the recent IDTechEx report "Plant-based Meat 2022-2032"). Cultured meat may be the next step in the journey away from conventional meat, with cell culture theoretically being able to provide exact replicas of conventional meat, right down to the molecular level, but at a fraction of the environmental cost.

Reflecting the high levels of funding, North American cultured meat companies are among the most commercially developed. Cultured seafood producer BlueNalu is constructing a 40,000 square foot pilot facility in San Diego, with the aim of launching a commercial product in the US this year, and California-based Eat Just is the first cultured meat company in the world to have received regulatory approval for one of its products, a cultured chicken bite that was approved for commercial sale in Singapore in 2020.

North America may even become the second-region to approve cultured meat for commercial sale. The US is heavily rumored to be in the final stages of approving a cultured meat product for commercial sale in the country, likely a cultured seafood product. Cultured seafood is likely to have the simplest path to regulatory approval in the US, as it is set to be solely regulated by the FDA, rather than the fairly complex arrangement between the FDA and USDA for approval of other cultured meat products.

However, as of October 2021, these are still rumors and there have been no formal announcements to suggest that cultured meat could be hitting stores and restaurants any time soon in the US. Nevertheless, many in the industry are optimistic - a US regulatory approval would be enormous for the cultured meat industry and would likely see a flood of new money entering the space. US approval would also influence the approval processes in other regions, particularly following a safe and successful market entry.

Asia

Despite all the industrial activity in the US and North America, it was Asia that captured the headlines around cultured meat in late 2020 and early 2021 as Singapore became the first region in the world to approve cultured meat for commercial sale in December 2020.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) granted approval for cultured chicken produced by Eat Just to be sold in Singapore as an ingredient in nuggets produced by the company. The Singaporean government has historically been supportive of the cultured meat industry. To improve the country's food security, in 2019 the Singaporean government set up the "30 by 30" goal, with the aim of producing 30% of the country's nutritional needs locally by 2030, using technologies including vertical farming and alternative proteins.

Following the regulatory approval, Eat Just carried out a limited commercial release, providing "chicken" bites containing a blend of plant-based proteins and cultured chicken cells to one local restaurant. Although the release was more of a proof-of-concept than a serious attempt at commercialization, with Eat Just losing money on each chicken bite sold, the release generated much excitement, both in Singapore and across the wider world. Eat Just has since raised $170 million to focus on scaling up its cultured meat production ahead of a wider release across the country.

Outside of Singapore, the picture is a bit less optimistic for the cultured meat industry across the Asia-Pacific region. Despite studies suggesting that East Asian consumers may be more willing to try cultured meat than their US counterparts, the region remains comparatively underfunded - although the Asia-Pacific region has 17% of the world's cultured meat companies, it has only seen 5% of global investor funding into the industry. The regulatory situation is also unclear - outside of Singapore, there is no existing regulatory framework specific to cultured meat anywhere in Asia, although cultured meat was briefly discussed in the 2020 National People's Congress in China. It may be many years before cultured meat products are seen anywhere in Asia, outside of Singapore.

Moving away from Asia-Pacific but still staying in Asia, Israel has been a particular focal point for the cultured meat industry. Much like Singapore, food security is a significant concern in Israel, and the country is home to several cultured meat start-ups, including cultured steak producers Aleph Farms and cultured chicken producers Future Meat. Although cultured meat is not approved for commercial sale in the country, consumers can even apply for a table at SuperMeat's "The Chicken" restaurant, where they can taste a prototype cultured chicken burger, although they are not allowed to pay for it.

Europe

Europe has also seen significant activity in the cultured meat space. The industry was effectively founded here when Dr Mark Post of Maastricht University in the Netherlands demonstrated the world's first cultured meat prototype in 2013 to a room full of journalists in London. Mosa Meat, the company formed from his research, has since become one of the largest companies in the space, having raised almost $100 million in disclosed investment funding.

Europe is now the second largest region in terms of the number of cultured meat companies and levels of funding raised, behind North America (although it is third if Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are considered as one region).

The European Union also has one of the most well-defined regulatory pathways for cultured meat in the world. Cultured meat is explicitly mentioned in the bloc's "Novel Food Regulation", which sets out a somewhat clear pathway for how a cultured meat company can gain approval to sell its product. In August 2020, a cultured meat research program led by Spanish start-up Biotech Foods was awarded a 2.7 million grant under the EU's Horizon 2020 R&D funding framework, also suggesting that there may be some government support for cultured meat in the EU.

However, cultured meat is still probably some distance away from commercial release in the region. It is likely that there will be intense arguments over labeling of cultured meat products, similar to those seen around plant-based substitutes. In the EU, plant-based producers are banned from calling plant-based products "yogurt" or "milk", and some member states have gone even further - France does not allow the use of meat terms like "steak" or "sausage" to describe products, following meat industry lobbies claiming that these terms confuse customers.

Additionally, consumers and regulators in Europe have historically been hostile to biotechnology in food. Even now, it is almost impossible to release a food product containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the region, and the EU has indicated that it will take a hostile regulatory stance towards the use of gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 in food. Without a change in regulatory attitudes, there is a risk that the EU will be left behind in the next generation of innovative food products.

The rest of the world

Although North America, Asia, and Europe have seen the most activity, cultured meat is truly a global phenomenon. In South America, Argentina-based Cell Farm Food Tech has become the first cultured meat start-up to be founded in the region, while a Brazil-based meat producer recently partnered with Aleph Farms in a push to bring cultured meat to the region.

In Africa, Cape Town-based Mzansi Meat is hoping that its local networks and understanding of African culture will enable it to gain a foothold across the continent. However, challenging cost pressures and a lack of established supply chain infrastructure mean that a successful African commercial release remains a daunting prospect.

Cultured meat in space?

Cultured meat is not just an Earth-based phenomenon. In 2019, Israeli cultured meat start-up Aleph Farms became the first company to produce cultured meat in space, creating small-scale muscle tissue from bovine cells aboard the International Space Station, using equipment made by 3D Bioprinting Solutions. The company has since launched the Aleph Zero program, which aims to establish cultured meat production equipment in extra-terrestrial environments. US-based Finless Foods has also produced a prototype in space, following a partnership with 3D Bioprinting Solutions.

Although the technical barriers to producing cultured meat in space are formidable, space exploration may (eventually) be an ideal market for cultured meat. Food variety and choice is currently extremely limited in space travel, with crew members often losing weight and struggling to achieve adequate nutrition over long missions. This could become a major issue for long-term space missions, such as manned trips to Mars, and could limit the appeal of space tourism over the coming decades.

Bioregenerative food systems, i.e., systems that produce fresh food in situ, could provide the necessary nutrients needed for the crew's survival as well as enhancing the psychological wellbeing of the crew. Cultured meat could play a major role here - large quantities of tissue can be produced from a small number of starter cells and the components of growth media can be easily transported in powdered form and reconstituted with water on the production site.

The world of cultured meat is evolving rapidly, with the industry looking very different depending on location. For a detailed global perspective on the cultured meat industry, see the recent IDTechEx report "Cultured Meat 2021-2041"

About IDTechEx





IDTechEx guides your strategic business decisions through its Research, Subscription and Consultancy products, helping you profit from emerging technologies. For more information, contact research@IDTechEx.com or visit www.IDTechEx.com.

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EQS Group-News: Nordea Bank Abp / Key word(s): Share Buyback

Nordea Bank Abp: Transaction in Own Shares



26.10.2021 / 11:50





Nordea repurchases shares in accelerated bookbuild

Nordea Bank Abp

Stock exchange release - Changes in company's own shares

26 October 2021 at 09.45 EET

Nordea Bank Abp has through its broker Morgan Stanley Europe SE repurchased 32,400,000 own shares (FI4000297767) in the accelerated bookbuild first announced by Sampo plc on 25 October 2021. Nordea's broker carried out the repurchase of the shares on Nordea's behalf under the share buy-back programme that started on 22 October 2021. The price per share was EUR 10.65 and the total acquisition price amounts to approximately EUR 345 million.

On 20 October 2021, Nordea announced a share buy-back programme of up to a maximum of EUR 2.0bn based on the authorisation granted by Nordea's Annual General Meeting on 24 March 2021. The shares acquired under the programme are repurchased otherwise than in proportion to the existing shareholdings of the Company's shareholders (directed repurchases) in public trading or outside public trading.

After the disclosed transaction, Nordea holds 35,338,008 treasury shares for capital optimisation purposes and 7,112,244 treasury shares for remuneration purposes.



http://www.rns-pdf.londonstockexchange.com/rns/2652Q_1-2021-10-26.pdf

For further information:

Matti Ahokas, Head of Investor Relations, +358 9 5300 8011

Group Communication, +358 10 416 8023 or press@nordea.com

The information provided in this stock exchange release was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact persons set out above, at 09.45 EET on 26 October 2021.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com.

End of Media Release


SIRC Subsidiary USA Solar Networks capital raised will fund global humanitarian-based solar projects including schools, churches, and disenfranchised communities

EL CAJON, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC PINK:SIRC), an integrated, single-source solar power and roofing systems installation company, today announced the Company's subsidiary USA Solar Networks has partnered with the Founders of RxSeed Coin, a cryptocurrency coin asset listed on the Stellar Exchange, to develop a cryptocurrency funding solution for humanitarian commercial solar projects.

RxSeed Coin is dedicated to the vision of helping people, and for people to receive a living gift, known as the Coin of Compassion, in exchange for their compassion with hopes that it will grow. They are highly humanitarian in their efforts, with a primary focus on manufacturing emergency housing for disaster relief and unexpected homelessness.

RxSeed utilizes the Bitcoin model to create crowdfunding solutions for the purpose of raising money for the funding of commercial, humanitarian-based projects including schools, churches and disenfranchised communities. Via the raising of capital, a fund will be raised to fund commercial projects, with an estimate of one commercial building per one million dollars raised. This process can be repeated continuously to accommodate both the funding needed for projects and public interest in investing in the fund. The host of the commercial entity will sign a 20-25 year power purchase agreement that will pay to the coin holders a consistent revenue stream for the power that is generated by the solar system installed by USA Solar Networks.

Per the terms of the agreement, USA Solar Networks will receive long term revenues from the host of the commercial entity paying for the power generated from the system and income from the profit of the development and construction of the solar project, with a target gross profit margin of 15%, or $150,000 per $1.0 million of the commercial project. USA Solar Networks will retain all federal tax credits, any state or utility subsidies, and additional tax benefits, such as bonus depreciation of the system.

The partnership will also seek to offer energy solutions to cryptocurrency miners to reduce electricity costs through solar installations, leveraging relationships of the RxSeed Coin Founders.

"This partnership represents a unique opportunity to develop a cryptocurrency funding solution for humanitarian projects that may otherwise have been impossible," said Pablo Diaz, CEO of USA Solar Networks, an SIRC company. "RxSeed will offer us solar projects at no acquisition cost and the project will demonstrate our commitment to delivering solar solutions to underserved communities.

"The Cambridge Center for Alternative Finance (CCAF), reports that cryptocurrency mining consumes about 110 Terawatt Hours per year, or 0.55% of global electricity production. We also look forward to working with the team at RxSeed to offer miners a sustainable energy source for their needs. The partnership created with RxSeed enables us to engage in revenue producing humanitarian and cryptocurrency opportunities that are good for the planet and its people," concluded Diaz.

About RxSeed

RxSeed Coin is dedicated to the vision of helping people, and for people to receive a living gift, known as the Coin of Compassion, in exchange for their compassion with hopes that it will grow. They are highly humanitarian in their efforts, with a primary focus on manufacturing emergency housing for disaster relief and unexpected homelessness. They are also highly involved and active in the efforts to eradicate food insecurity in the United States. For more information visit www.rxseedcoin.com.

About Solar Integrated Roofing Corp.

Solar Integrated Roofing Corp. (OTC PINK:SIRC), is an integrated, single-source solar power and roofing systems installation platform company specializing in commercial and residential properties throughout the United States. The Company serves communities by delivering the best experience through constant innovation & legacy-focused leadership. The Company's broad array of solutions include sales and installation of solar energy systems, battery backup and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to roofing, HVAC and related electrical contracting work. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.solarintegratedroofing.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Any statements made in this press release which are not historical facts contain certain forward-looking statements; as such term is defined in the Private Security Litigation Reform Act of 1995, concerning potential developments affecting the business, prospects, financial condition and other aspects of the company to which this release pertains. The actual results of the specific items described in this release, and the company's operations generally, may differ materially from what is projected in such forward-looking statements. Although such statements are based upon the best judgments of management of the company as of the date of this release, significant deviations in magnitude, timing and other factors may result from business risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, the company's dependence on third parties, general market and economic conditions, technical factors, the availability of outside capital, receipt of revenues and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the company. The company disclaims any obligation to update the information contained in any forward-looking statement. This press release shall not be deemed a general solicitation.

Investor Relations Contact:

Lucas A. Zimmerman

Director

MZ North America

Main: 949-259-4987

SIRC@mzgroup.us

www.mzgroup.us

SOURCE: Solar Integrated Roof Corp.

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$22 million program achieves significant milestone on path to developing world's largest Green Hydrogen production systems

OWEN SOUND, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Hydrogen Optimized, a subsidiary of KEY DH Technologies Inc., today announced that it has completed a demonstration of the world's highest-current water electrolyser since the 1980s.

The operation of a 50,000 ampere RuggedCell unipolar electrolyser represents a breakthrough in large-scale Green Hydrogen production technology and a direct pathway toward the commercialization of single electrolysis modules rated up to 100 MW. The demonstration took place at Hydrogen Optimized's High-Current Demonstration Centre in Owen Sound, Ontario.

"Today we achieved an important milestone toward our goal of deploying high-current unipolar water electrolysis technology for the world's largest Green Hydrogen production systems," said Andrew T.B. Stuart, President and CEO, Hydrogen Optimized. "Such very large systems will be required by major industrial, chemical, utility and energy end users to significantly reduce their carbon emissions."

Stuart added, "We will now focus on optimizing the RuggedCell design as we advance toward the development of a market-ready product. We will also move toward the scale-up of our technology - a doubling of the RuggedCell current rating to 100,000 amperes. This will enable single electrolyser modules up to 200 MW."

In parallel with its ongoing technology development and demonstration activities, Hydrogen Optimized is advancing its manufacturing capabilities to enable production at its Owen Sound plant of hundreds of megawatts of electrolysers annually and ultimately up to 2 GW of annual output. New manufacturing facilities will be established in other markets in line with growth projections in the demand for large-scale Green Hydrogen production.

Aurora Energy Research, Europe's leading dedicated power analytics provider, projects that the global installed base of water electrolysers will grow one-thousand-fold from 0.2 MW today to more than 200 GW by 2040*. The firm also projects that "typical" electrolyser project sizes will grow to 100-500 MWs by 2025 and to 1 GW by 2030. Looking ahead, Hydrogen Optimized believes that its high-current unipolar approach could be a category-leading solution for plants at the scale forecasted by Aurora.

"On my recent visit to Hydrogen Optimized's Owen Sound facility, I was impressed by the company's progress on its Green Hydrogen production system," said Ontario Energy Minister, the Hon. Todd Smith, who was joined at the facility by Bruce-Grey-Owen Sound MPP Bill Walker. "Ontario businesses such as Hydrogen Optimized can help place our province at the forefront of clean energy technology and manufacturing."

Since 2017, when Hydrogen Optimized launched its RuggedCell high-current electrolyser development program, the company has progressively scaled the maximum ampere rating of its technology. This has involved a technology development investment of $10 million to date, with another $12 million investment anticipated over the next three years. The future expenditures will be funded by a $4.8 million grant from Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) as announced on June 8, 2021, additional support from Natural Gas Innovation Fund (NGIF) Industry Grants, other funding sources under development, and investors.

About Hydrogen Optimized

Hydrogen Optimized is a private hydrogen technology company that develops and commercializes large-scale Green Hydrogen production systems. It is part of Key DH Technologies Inc., a group of innovation-driven businesses in the deuterium and hydrogen industries. As a sustainable energy conversion company, Hydrogen Optimized enables the conversion of green electricity into Green Hydrogen and the transformation of heavy fossil fuel-use industries into sustainability leaders. Using our patent pending high current unipolar RuggedCellTM water electrolysis system, we seek to be the first water electrolysis company to supply an aggregate of 10 GW of hydrogen production equipment. Hydrogen Optimized's Green Hydrogen production systems are targeted to major industrial, chemical, utility and energy end users. For more information on Hydrogen Optimized, please visit www.hydrogenoptimized.com.

About KEY DH Technologies Inc.

KEY DH Technologies develops innovation-driven businesses in the deuterium and hydrogen industries, serving global markets. KEY's three main operating companies include: Hydrogen Optimized, a private hydrogen technology company that develops and commercializes the patent-pending RuggedCell water electrolysis systems for the large-scale production of Green Hydrogen; Isowater, a world-leading supplier of deuterium oxide to global customers in the life sciences, high technology and environmental science sectors; and deutraMed, a breakthrough deuterium science and innovation company that provides clients with high-value deuterium-containing products for specialized applications along with IP-driven research and services. For more information, please visit www.keydht.com.

For more information:

Don Hogarth

416-565-8920

don@hogarthpr.com

* https://auroraer.com/media/companies-are-developing-over-200-gw-of-hydrogen-electrolyser-projects-globally-85-of-which-are-in-europe/

SOURCE: Key DH Technologies Inc.

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Aurelius Minerals Inc. (TSXV: AUL) (OTCQB: AURQF) (the "Company" or "Aurelius") is pleased to report high-grade gold results from the Tangier and Forest Hill Projects in Nova Scotia, Canada. The Company recently completed a review of 10 historical, NQ sized drill core, that had been drilled from surface by diamond drill. Five of the holes are from the Tangier project and five holes are from the Forest Hill project. All holes were relogged and comprehensively sampled to identify overlooked gold mineralization. A total of 1,242 samples were taken with 1,220 samples from previously unsampled core and 22 samples from previously assayed core. Core from both projects was pulled from the secure Aurelius exploration facilities at the Tangier and Aureus East project sites.

The Tangier and Forest Hill projects are in the prolific Meguma gold district of Nova Scotia. The Tangier project is located within the historical gold mining community of the same name and is located approximately 65km east of Halifax. The Forest Hill project, also a past gold producer, is approximately 150km east of Halifax and 22km from the town of Sherbrooke (Figure 1).

Highlights from infill sampling programs:

Tangier Project

4 of 5 holes sampled revealed significant gold mineralization

Hole TAN-19-01 (drilled in 2019) Multiple new near surface high grade gold intersections 302 grams per tonne gold, ("g/t Au") over 0.43 metres ("m"), from 37.55m 23.5 g/t Au over 0.31m, from 54.07m 6.49 g/t Au over 0.28m, from 92.6m



Hole TAN-19-02 (drilled in 2019) 32.9 g/t Au over 0.29m, from 20.35m

Hole TAN-14-02 (drilled in 2014) 4.66 g/t Au over 0.9m, from 88.0m 9.77 g/t Au over 0.45m, from 89.0m

Hole TAN14-03 (drilled in 2014) 14.7 g/t Au over 1.0m, from 36.4m



Forest Hill Project

3 of 5 holes sampled revealed significant gold mineralization

Hole FH-18-02 100 g/t Au over 0.3m, from 96.8m



Details for the infill sampling program are included in Tables 1-3 below.

CEO of Aurelius, Mark N.J. Ashcroft, P.Eng stated, "Our reconnaissance exploration work, at both Tangier and Forest Hill, involved significant research into historical data and assessment reports, culminating in a review and the relogging of drill core from both projects, which were located at our secure storage facilities. We are very pleased to again discover unreported gold mineralization, and significant new gold intersections, previously overlooked by the prior operators. As we discovered during our initial reconnaissance exploration of the Aureus East and West projects, the assets acquired in Nova Scotia continue to show significant potential and opportunity as we apply a different methodology in evaluating the projects."

"Our team has remained focused on adding value by finding gold where others have yet to look. We have explored beyond the standard approach and by pushing these conventional limits we have unlocked significant potential to increase our gold resources. Just a year into the programs, we are very well positioned for the next phases and to continue on our pathway of discovery," stated Jeremy Niemi, Vice President, Exploration.

The Tangier Project

The Tangier property has had a very long history, with gold first identified in 1860. Several campaigns of mining and exploration have been conducted since then, however, little modern exploration and almost no exploration has occurred outside of the traditional gold veins.

The Aurelius infill sampling campaign at Tangier involved reviewing five of 216 holes drilled at the project to relog, photograph and identify potentially overlooked gold mineralization through rigorous sampling. The holes were selected from three key areas at the project, the western extension of the deposit, the Strawberry Hill gold zone and a hole drilled north of the deposit (Figure 2). Multiple new high-grade gold intervals were identified along the western extension of the Tangier deposit within the three holes selected in the area. Holes TAN-19-01, TAN-19-02 and T14-02 are along the margin of the deposit, which was last bulk-sampled in 1999 from now flooded underground openings. The deposit extends from surface to a depth of approximately 300m and is 500m along strike in east-west direction. It is made up of at least 18 of south-dipping and parallel gold in quartz veins hosted within slate (argillite) and meta-greywacke beds. Traditionally the focus of mining and exploration concentrated on the quartz veins and the often large nuggets of gold associated with the high-grades. The infill sampling identified gold in the surrounding wall rock to the veins and opens a new opportunity to expand the gold resource at the project, beyond extending the mineralization at depth and along strike.

Hole T14-02 was selected due to its proximity to the Strawberry Hill gold zone, which is on trend of the Tangier deposit and 750m away to the east. The area has multiple gold hits greater than 5 g/t Au from multiple parallel gold in quartz veins, similar to the Tangier deposit. T14-02 infill sampling revealed four new intervals of gold mineralization between 73.0m and 149.0m down the hole. In all cases the new mineralization was due to sampling of host sediments adjacent to gold veins (Figure 3).

Hole TAN-14-06 did not reveal new gold mineralization, and the original target was north of the deposit and this hole may not have been optimally oriented or positioned. There are historical abandoned mine openings reported in the vicinity of the hole, which is encouraging for gold potential in the area.

Overall, the Company is encouraged by the high rate of success from the limited reconnaissance sampling program and is considering an expanded program to further identify areas of opportunity for gold resource growth. The Tangier gold exploration program is focused on growing the inferred mineral resource reported in the "Technical Report on the Tangier Gold Property" dated June 1, 2020, prepared by Greg Mosher, P.Geo, MSc, applied, of Global Mineral Resource Services and filed under the Company's profile at SEDAR. The Tangier Gold Property technical report is also available on the Company's website.

The Tangier project Mineral Resource currently includes 493,000 tonnes at a grade of 5.9 g/t Au which includes 93,000 ounces in the Inferred Mineral category (see Table 4). The Mineral Resource is limited to a depth of 300m and a strike length of approximately 500m, however gold mineralization in drilling has been confirmed over 1,500m along strike and very limited drilling has occurred below the deposit. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the Mineral Resources estimated will be converted into Mineral Reserves. Inferred Mineral Resources are based on limited drilling which suggests the greatest uncertainty for a resource estimate and that geological continuity is only implied. Additional drilling will be required to verify geological and mineralization continuity and it is reasonable that most of the Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources

The Forest Hill Project

Infill sampling at Forest Hill reviewed 5 of 379 holes drilled at the project to relog, photograph and identify potentially overlooked gold mineralization through rigorous sampling. Multiple zones were identified with 3 of the 5 holes intersecting new gold mineralization. Most significant was the zone in hole FH-18-02 where a narrow bedding parallel vein, with visible gold, was overlooked. This sample graded 100 g/t Au and extended 0.3m from 96.8m to 97.1m depth.

Forest Hill was also mined and explored in the past via underground openings which are now capped and flooded. The site was rehabilitated in 1998.

The limited reconnaissance sampling program is very encouraging and is considering an expanded program to further identify areas of opportunity for gold resource growth. The Forest Hill gold exploration program is focused on growing the Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resource reported in the "Technical Report on the Forest Hill Gold Property" dated June 1, 2020, prepared by Greg Mosher, P.Geo, MSc, applied, of Global Mineral Resource Services and filed under the Company's profile at SEDAR. The Forest Hill Gold Property technical report is also available on the Company's website.

The Mineral Resource at Forest Hill currently includes Indicated and Inferred Mineral Resources. There are 322,000 tonnes at a grade of 7.1 g/t Au which includes 73,000 ounces in the indicated category as well as 905,000 tonnes at a grade of 7.1 g/t Au including 208,000 ounces in the inferred category (see Table 5). The Mineral Resource is limited to a depth of 300m and a strike length of approximately 2,300m and remains open at depth and along strike. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the Mineral Resources estimated will be converted into Mineral Reserves. Inferred Mineral Resources are based on limited drilling which suggests the greatest uncertainty for a resource estimate and that geological continuity is only implied. Additional drilling will be required to verify geological and mineralization continuity and it is reasonable that most of the Inferred Mineral Resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources.







Figure 1: Project location map for Aurelius projects and adjacent gold projects (other companies)

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

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Figure 2: Tangier plan map showing locations of holes selected for infill sampling

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Figure 3: Tangier longitudinal section showing location of infill holes with existing mineral resource

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Figure 4: Forest Hill plan map showing locations of holes selected for infill sampling

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Figure 5: Forest Hill longitudinal section showing location of infill holes with existing mineral resource

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The Aurelius exploration approach involves stepping back and taking a wider view of opportunities for new gold mineralization and part of that is considering potentially overlooked gold in existing drilling. In recent years, exploration for gold in the Meguma district has expanded from the traditional high-grade gold in quartz veins and into the wall rock surrounding the veins. This approach has proven successful at identifying overlooked gold mineralization at all four of the projects in the Meguma district. In August, September and October 2020, the Company released results from assays of previously unsampled core at Aureus West and Aureus East as highlighted below.

Previously Reported Infill Sampling Results from Aureus East and West

August 31, 2020 press release Aureus West (https://aureliusminerals.com/news/aurelius-reports-assays-of-0.82-metres-at-42.20-g-t-gold-within-21.50-metres-at-2.31-g-t-gold-in-hole-10-sr-113-aureus-west/) Hole 10-SR-113 (drilled in 2010) 2.31 g/t Au over 21.5m, from 84.0m Including 42.2g/t Au over 0.82m, from 94.0m Hole 10-SR-112 (drilled in 2010) 1.53 g/t Au over 3.55m, from 26.45m Hole 10-SR-110 17.5 g/t Au over 0.6m, from 141.15m

September 9, 2020 press release Aureus West (https://aureliusminerals.com/news/aurelius-reports-assays-of-0.77-metres-at-37.10-g-t-gold-within-3.0-metres-at-20.52-g-t-gold-in-hole-10-sr-115-aureus-west/) Hole 10-SR-114 (drilled in 2010) 1.75 g/t Au over 11.1m, from 16.9m Including 26.4 g/t Au over 0.64m, from 24.36m Hole 10-SR-115 (drilled in 2010) 20.52 g/t Au over 3.0m, from 15.5m Including 47.95 g/t Au over 0.5m, from 15.5m And 15.9 g/t Au over 0.54m, from 16.46m And 37.1 g/t Au over 0.77m, from 17.73m

September 17, 2009 press release Aureus West (https://aureliusminerals.com/news/aurelius-reports-assays-of-0.65-metres-at-35.70-g-t-gold-within-9.3-metres-at-2.79-g-t-gold-in-hole-10-sr-117-starting-10.20/) Hole 10-SR-116 (drilled in 2010) 2.08 g/t over 10.55m, from 31.95m Including 18.05 g/t Au over 0.55m, from 31.95m And 5.36 g/t Au over 1.0m, from 38.0m Hole 10-SR-117 (drilled in 2010) 2.79 g/t Au over 9.3m, from 10.2m Including 35.7 g/t Au over 0.65m, from 16.75m Hole 10-SR-118 (drilled in 2010) 0.5 g/t Au over 69.4m, from 10.9m Including 16.54 g/t Au over 0.42m, from 74.5m

October 6, 2020 press release Aureus East (https://aureliusminerals.com/news/aurelius-reports-assays-of-0.78-metres-at-61.8g-t-gold-within-1.78-metres-at-28.4g-t-gold-and-0.6-metres-at-56.6g-t-gold-within/) Hole UG-17-06 (drilled from underground in 2017) 28.4 g/t Au over 1.78m, from 2.72m Including 61.8 g/t Au over 0.78m, from 2.72m 32.2 g/t Au over 1.1m, from 12.5m Including 56.5 g/t Au over 0.6m, from 13.0m Hole UG-17-08 (drilled from underground in 2017) 3.3 g/t Au over 7.25m, from 112.4m Including 6.1 g/t Au over 1.4m, from 113.6m And 4.1 g/t Au over 1.1m, from 115.7m And 13.6 g/t Au over 0.5m, from 117.75m Hole UG-17-09 (drilled from underground in 2017) 5.3 g/t Au over 3.2m, from 111.3m Including 12.1 g/t Au over 1.3m, from 111.7m



Table 1. Gold intervals from 2021 infill sampling of historical holes at Tangier and Forest Hill

Project Drillhole From (m) To (m) Width (m) Au (g/t) Tangier TAN-19-01 37.35 37.78 0.43 302

TAN-19-01 54.07 54.38 0.31 23.5

TAN-19-01 92.6 92.88 0.28 6.49

TAN-19-02 20.35 20.64 0.29 32.9

T14-02 73 74 1 1.73

T14-02 88 88.9 0.9 4.66

T14-02 89 89.45 0.45 9.77

T14-02 148 149 1 1.14

TAN14-03 36.4 37.4 1 14.7

TAN14-03 65 65.6 0.6 1.71

TAN14-03 65.6 65.9 0.3 3.07

TAN14-03 65.9 66.25 0.35 3.63

TAN14-06 No significant results











Forest Hill FH-18-01 156.7 157.1 0.4 3.9

FH-18-02 14.4 14.7 0.3 2.07

FH-18-02 24.2 24.5 0.3 1.47

FH-18-02 96.8 97.1 0.3 100

FH04-25 61 62 1 3.32

FH-15-83 No significant results

FH-03-08 No significant results

Gold grades are not capped, and due to folded geometry of veins, the intervals may not reflect actual width.

Table 2. Hole location, final depth and orientation for reported holes

Project Drillhole Easting Northing Azimuth Dip Length (m) Year Drilled Tangier T14-02 525,037 4,961,839 320 -45 212 2014

TAN14-03 523,880 4,961,390 330 -45 128 2014

TAN14-06 523,575 4,961,560 155 -45 120 2014

TAN-19-01 523,880 4,961,390 317 -45 131 2019

TAN-19-02 523,880 4,961,390 317 -60 203 2019 Forest Hill FH-18-02 597,643 5,018,074 173 -65 110 2018

FH-18-01 597,643 5,018,074 173 -50 200 2018

FH-15-83 598,471 5,017,931 176 -45 186 2015

FH04-25 597,305 5,017,861 180 -45 150 2004

FH03-08 597,311 5,018,038 180 -48 250 2003

Table 3. Summary details for 2021 infill sampling for Tangier and Forest Hill

Infill Program Summary Tangier Forest Hill Number of Holes 5 5 Metres of Infill Samples 519.99 464.34 Metres of Resamples 8.95 1.4 Total Number of Metres 528.94 465.74 Number of Resamples 18 4 Number of Infill Samples 643 577 Total Number of Core Samples 661 581 Total QAQC Samples Sent 47 42

Table 4. Mineral resources for Tangier property

CLASS TONNES AU G/T CAPPED CAPPED OUNCES AU UNCAPPED

AU G/T OZ UNCAPPED AU Inferred 493,000 5.9 93,000 9.9 163,000

A cutoff of 2 g/t gold was used. Both capped (40 g/t) and uncapped grades are shown above. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the mineral resources will be converted to mineral reserves. Inferred Mineral Resources are based on limited drilling which suggests the greatest uncertainty for a resource estimate and that geological continuity is only implied. Additional drilling will be required to verify geological and mineralization continuity and it is reasonable that most of the inferred resources could be upgraded to indicated resources. Quantity and grades are estimates and are rounded to reflect the fact that the resource estimate is an approximation. The Mineral Resource estimate was prepared by G. Mosher, P.Geo, M.Sc. and is effective June 1, 2020.

Table 5. Mineral resources for Forest Hill property

CLASS TONNES AU G/T CAPPED CAPPED OUNCES AU UNCAPPED

AU G/T OZ UNCAPPED AU Indicated 322,000 7.1 73,000 11.0 114,000 Inferred 905,000 7.1 208,000 10.6 308,000

A cutoff of 2 g/t gold was used. Both capped (110 g/t) and uncapped grades are shown above. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the mineral resources will be converted to mineral reserves. Inferred Mineral Resources are based on limited drilling which suggests the greatest uncertainty for a resource estimate and that geological continuity is only implied. Additional drilling will be required to verify geological and mineralization continuity and it is reasonable that most of the inferred resources could be upgraded to indicated resources. Quantity and grades are estimates and are rounded to reflect the fact that the resource estimate is an approximation. The Mineral Resource estimate was prepared by G. Mosher, P.Geo, M.Sc. and is effective June 1, 2020.

COVID-19 Precautions

Aurelius has developed and implemented compliant precautions and procedures that are in line with guidelines for the Province of Nova Scotia. Protocols were put in place to ensure the safety of our employees and contractors, thereby reducing the potential for community contact and spreading of the virus.

Qualified Person and Analytical Procedures

Mr. Jeremy Niemi, P.Geo. and Vice President, Exploration of Aurelius and the Company's Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information in this release.

Individual drill core samples are labeled, placed in plastic sample bags and sealed. Groups of samples are then placed into durable rice bags and then shipped by courier for analyses to ALS Geochemistry, Moncton, New Brunswick. Sample preparation occurs at ALS in Moncton where samples are weighed, dried, crushing one kilogram to 70 percent less than two millimeters and then pulverized to create a one-kilogram sample with 85 percent less than seventy-five microns. Potential high-grade gold samples are sent for metallic screen fire assay and remaining material is assayed for 50-gram fire assay and samples grading more than 100 parts per million have a gravimetric finish performed. When visible gold is encountered the Company samples both halves of the core. The remaining coarse reject portions of the samples remain in storage if further work or verification is needed. The Company inserted control samples (accredited gold standards, blanks and duplicates) at least every 20 samples and monitors the control samples inserted by ALS.

About Aurelius

Aurelius is a well-positioned gold exploration company focused on advancing its recently acquired and renamed Aureus Gold Properties, including Aureus East and West, the Tangier Gold Project and the Forest Hill Gold Project located in Nova Scotia and described in detail in the Company's press release of November 18, 2019.

Aurelius is also focused on advancing two district-scale gold projects in the Abitibi Greenstone Belt in Ontario, Canada, one of the world's most prolific mining districts; the 968-hectare Mikwam Property, in the Burntbush area on the Casa Berardi trend and the 12,425-hectare Lipton Property, on the Lower Detour Trend.

The Company has a management team with experience in all facets of the mineral exploration and mining industry who will be considering additional acquisitions of advanced staged opportunities in Nova Scotia, the Abitibi and other proven mining districts.

On Behalf of the Board

AURELIUS MINERALS INC.

For further information please contact:

Aurelius Minerals Inc.

Mark N.J. Ashcroft, P.Eng., President and CEO

info@aureliusminerals.com

Tel.: (416) 304-9095

www.aureliusminerals.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.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" under the provisions of applicable Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business, operations and financial performance and condition of Aurelius. All statements in this press release, other than statements of historical fact, are "forward-looking information" with respect to Aurelius within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements with respect to the Company's planned drilling and exploration activities, the anticipated benefits of the Acquisition and the development of the Aureus Gold Properties, the future price of gold, the estimation of Mineral Resources, the realization of Mineral Resource estimates, success of exploration activities, permitting time lines, currency exchange rate fluctuations, requirements for additional capital, government regulation of mining operations, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses, title disputes or claims and limitations on insurance coverage. Generally, this forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" , "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" , "believes", or variations or comparable language of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Forward-looking information is necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, if untrue, could cause the actual results, performances or achievements of Aurelius to be materially different from future results, performances or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which Aurelius will operate in the future, including the price of gold, anticipated costs and ability to achieve goals.

Certain important factors that could cause actual results, performances or achievements to differ materially from those in the forward-looking information include, among others, gold price volatility, mining operational and development risks, litigation risks, regulatory restrictions (including environmental regulatory restrictions and liability), changes in national and local government legislation, taxation, controls or regulations and/or change in the administration of laws, policies and practices, expropriation or nationalization of property and political or economic developments in Canada, delays, suspension and technical challenges associated with projects, higher prices for fuel, steel, power, labour and other consumables, currency fluctuations, the speculative nature of gold exploration, the global economic climate, dilution, share price volatility, competition, loss of key employees, additional funding requirements and defective title to mineral claims or property. Although Aurelius believes its expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions and has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all or any part of the Mineral Resources will be converted to Mineral Reserves. Inferred Mineral Resources are based on limited drilling which suggests the greatest uncertainty for a resource estimate and that geological continuity is only implied. Additional drilling will be required to verify geological and mineralization continuity and it is reasonable that most of the Inferred Mineral resources could be upgraded to Indicated Mineral Resources.

The Company provides forward-looking information for the purpose of conveying information about current expectations and plans relating to the future and readers are cautioned that such statements may not be appropriate for other purposes. By its nature, this information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Aurelius to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to: risks related to difficulties in executing exploration programs at the Mikwam, Lipton and Aureus Gold Properties on the Company's proposed schedules and within its cost and scheduling estimates, whether due to weather conditions, availability or interruption of power supply, mechanical equipment performance problems, natural disasters or pandemics in the areas where it operates, the integration of acquisition; risks related to current global financial conditions including market reaction to the coronavirus outbreak; competition within the industry; actual results of current exploration activities; environmental risks; changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined; future price of gold; failure of plant, equipment or processes to operate as anticipated; mine development and operating risks; accidents, labour disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining approvals or financing; risks related to indebtedness and the service of such indebtedness, as well as those factors, risks and uncertainties identified and reported in Aurelius' public filings under Aurelius' SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com. Although Aurelius has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. 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. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Aurelius disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise unless required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100842
Retailers using Stripe can now seamlessly integrate Klarna's payment methods in all markets where Klarna is active.

Klarna uses Stripe's infrastructure to accept credit card payments from consumers in the US and Canada .

SAN FRANCISCO and NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Klarna, a leading global retail bank, payments, and shopping service, today announced a strategic partnership with Stripe, a global technology company building economic infrastructure for the internet. Retailers using Stripe can now activate Klarna as the preferred payment method in their checkout within minutes, providing a superior shopping experience to consumers.

Koen Koppen, Chief Technology Officer at Klarna: "Over the past years, Klarna and Stripe redefined the e-commerce experience for millions of consumers and global retailers. Together with Stripe, we will be a true growth partner for our retailers of all sizes, allowing them to maximize their entrepreneurial success through our joint services. By offering convenience, flexibility, and control to even more shoppers, we create a win-win situation for both retailers and consumers alike."

Will Gaybrick, Chief Product Officer at Stripe: "We're thrilled to partner with Klarna so millions of businesses on Stripe globally can offer increased payment flexibility. Klarna's payment options are a powerful tool for online businesses to attract more customers, boost conversion rates, increase basket sizes, and thus grow their revenue."

The first results of retailers using Stripe show that the integration of Klarna's payment method led to an average 27% increase in sales. On average, retailers using Klarna see a 41% upsurge in average order volume and a 36% increase in purchase frequency - which subsequently led to an increase in revenue. Additionally, some retailers experienced that 40% of Klarna shoppers are new to their brand, demonstrating that Klarna's rapidly growing consumer app with more than 18m monthly users has become a true lead generator.

Alex Nazarevich, Vice President Growth at INDOCHINO: "Through the Klarna and Stripe partnership, we were able to get up and running quickly with a tailored service that met our needs perfectly."

In addition to enabling retailers already using Stripe to activate Klarna in their checkout, both companies have also announced plans to strengthen the partnership even further. Stripe is now Klarna's preferred payments partner for consumer purchases pre-funded by Klarna in the US and Canada. Tests with Stripe's services have resulted in significantly improved performance rates. For that reason, Klarna has shifted more payment processing volume to Stripe than initially planned, and partners with Stripe for about 90% of its payments volume in the US and Canada. The two companies are planning to deepen and expand their partnership to more countries and products in the future.

This is how Stripe retailers can enable Klarna

From today onwards, all eligible Stripe users can start accepting Klarna in minutes - there is no additional application, onboarding, or underwriting to get started. Klarna is supported on Stripe's Payment Intents API, Payment Element, Checkout, and Connect. Building and managing a separate API, integration patterns, and SLAs for Stripe retailers will not be necessary.

Klarna on Stripe is available to all retailers based in Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Netherlands, Norway, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Press Contact

David Zahn, Product Communications

press@klarna.com

+49 170 740 09 11

Klaas Flechsig, Northern European Communications

media@stripe.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

The following files are available for download:




DUBAI, Oct 26, 2021 - (JCN Newswire) - Blockchain startup Revuto has been named the Fastest Growing Consumer Product in Crypto for 2021 at World Blockchain Summit (TresconWBS) in Dubai.Responsible for the first-ever token sale on Cardano, raising $10m in the process, Revuto is an active subscription management platform that is designed to save users money. In addition to attracting 3m million sign-ups for early access, the platform boasts over 200,000 active users, who appreciate the ability to leverage Cardano-native tokens and DeFi to cover all their subscription payments.One of the premier events in the crypto calendar, the World Blockchain Summit unites thought leaders, investors, government representatives, developers and media outlets under one roof."To say that the entire Revuto team is thrilled would be an understatement. It is a wonderful validation of all the work we are doing behind the scenes. Of course, this would not have been possible without the unstinting support of our global community! Revuto is well on the way to becoming a global force, and receiving such recognition from our peers in the blockchain world is quite humbling," said Revuto co-founder & SVP of Strategy & Communication Josipa Majic.About RevutoRevuto is an active subscription management solution and first ever token sale on Cardano. Revuto raised $10M and has 3m signups for early access with 200k active users worldwide.By leveraging Cardano native tokens and DeFi to pay for subscriptions, Revuto's ecosystem is designed to save people money regardless of crypto market conditions. Revuto users can subscribe to services using the Revuto debit card, the built-in wallet supports Cardano-native tokens, and the accompanying app can be used to Block, Snooze or Approve subscription charges as they occur.The Revuto app is available for iOS and Google Play .Website: https://revuto.com/Contact: josipa@revuto.comSource: tresconCopyright 2021 JCN Newswire . All rights reserved.
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Charge Enterprises Inc. (OTC PINK:CRGE), ("Charge"), consisting of a portfolio of global businesses with the vision of connecting people everywhere with communications and electric-vehicle charging ("EV") infrastructure, and National Community Renaissance ("National CORE"), one of the nation's largest nonprofit developers of affordable housing, announced today that they have formed a Strategic Alliance.

This Strategic Alliance gives National CORE a trusted, reliable, preferred alliance with Charge to provide EV Charging Infrastructure Solutions for site locations. Charge's agnostic approach for equipment and software sourcing provides a value proposition for customized solutions that have the opportunity to provide greater flexibility and scalability to meet advancing technology and future demand.

Charge believes this alliance will deliver a benefit to the communities and geographic footprint within the National CORE portfolio of current and future sites. For the third consecutive year, National CORE has been recognized as a LEED Homes Power Builder by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). National CORE being one of twelve developers nationwide to qualify for this designation, holds the distinction of being the only nonprofit affordable housing developer on the recipient list.

Charge's expertise in delivering seamless bespoke, end-to-end infrastructure solutions including EV Charging design, engineering, equipment selection and sourcing, installation, software sourcing, maintenance and monitoring, along with Charge's complementary crossover infrastructure solutions for intelligent wireless campuses, will further align with National CORE's dedication to providing high-performance affordable housing that integrates energy efficiency and sustainability.

"Charge is honored to have this opportunity to work in alliance with National CORE", said Andrew Fox, Chairman and CEO of Charge. "The dedication of National CORE's focus towards underserved communities and the unequivocal process that differentiates Charge's infrastructure solutions align to deliver reliable and efficient infrastructures to reduce harmful emissions making all communities more sustainable, healthy and equitable places to live, work and play-especially historically disadvantaged communities."

"Inherent in National CORE's mission is to transform lives and communities. In California and across the United States, electric vehicles and other green technology applications will reshape the way people live, connect, and move", said Jeffrey S. Burum, National CORE's Chairman. "By forming this Alliance with Charge Enterprises we will add to our trusted supply chain for sustainable infrastructures, to provide efficient, affordable charging solutions to assist in the EV revolution"

About Charge Enterprises Inc.

Charge Enterprises Charge consists of a portfolio of global businesses with the vision of connecting people everywhere with communications and electric-vehicle charging ("EV") infrastructure. We believe the rise of new developing technologies in both industries offers us a unique growth opportunity. Our strategy focuses on acquiring businesses with operations geared toward such technologies' development to revolutionize the telecommunications and EV infrastructure industries with our global portfolio.

Our Telecommunications Division

Our Telecommunications division ("Telecommunications") has provided termination of both voice and data to Carriers and Mobile Network Operators (MNO's) globally for over two decades and we will selectively add profitable products and services to this long-established business.

Our Infrastructure Division

Our Infrastructure division ("Infrastructure") has a primary focus on two fast growing sectors: EV charging, and Telecommunications Network 5G, including cell tower, small cell, and in-building applications. Solutions for these two sectors include: Design and Engineering, Equipment specification and sourcing, Installation, Data & software solutions, and Service and Maintenance.

Our Investment Division

Our Investment division ("Investment") focuses on opportunities related to our global portfolio to expand our vision's impact. We aim to invest in opportunities that would complement our two operating divisions in addition to marketable securities, including money markets funds and other listed securities. Our Investment division provides services aimed at offsetting the overall cost of capital.

We offer our Investment services through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Charge Investments ("CI").

To find out more: https://www.charge.us/

About National Community Renaissance (National CORE)

National Community Renaissance, based in Southern California, is one of the nation's largest nonprofit developers of affordable housing. National CORE manages nearly 9,000 affordable, senior, and market-rate units in California, Texas, and Florida. National CORE's strength is in its ability to offer partners an array of in-house capabilities that navigates the complexities of planning, developing, building, managing, and providing supportive services. For more information on National CORE, please visit www.nationalcore.org.

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements, as defined in applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements reflect current expectations or beliefs regarding future events or Charge's future performance. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "continues", "forecasts", "projects", "predicts", "intends", "anticipates", "targets" or "believes", or variations of, or the negatives of, such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "should", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. All forward-looking statements, including those herein are qualified by this cautionary statement.

Although Charge believes that the expectations expressed in such forward looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements involve risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from any future results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include the business plans and strategies of Charge, Charge's future business development, market acceptance of electric vehicles, Charge's ability to generate profits and positive cash flow, and changes in government regulations and government incentives, subsidies, or other favorable government policies. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of risks and uncertainties is not exhaustive of the factors that may affect forward-looking statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release or as of the date or dates specified in such statements. For more information on Charge, investors are encouraged to review Charge's public filings on OTC Market at https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/CRGE/overview. Charge 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.

Contact:

LHA Investor Relations

Carolyn Capaccio, CFA

ccapaccio@lhai.com

212.838.3777

SOURCE: Charge Enterprises Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669601/Charge-Enterprisesand-National-Community-Renaissance-Establish-a-Strategic-Alliance-for-EV-Charging-Infrastructure
LA MIRADA, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) released its 2021 "Dirty Dozen" list of tax scams over the course of four days, urging US citizens to be especially vigilant as fraudsters devise new ways to trick honest taxpayers. "As if the pandemic was not enough of a social and economic burden for the nation, scam artists have made it even more difficult by targeting relief payments and preying on vulnerable groups," comments Philip L. Liberatore, CPA, a California-based provider of accounting, tax, and financial management services. "In the latest iteration of its "Dirty Dozen" list, the IRS identified 12 instances of what it called 'nefarious schemes and scams,' including some that target tax professionals."

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the first installment of the list was dedicated to pandemic-related scams, the most common threats being stimulus money theft and unemployment compensation fraud, says Philip Liberatore, founder and president of Philip L. Liberatore, CPA. The IRS has introduced additional measures to thwart identity thieves, including the extension of its Identity Protection PIN Opt-In Program to all taxpayers. The second installment focused on personal information cons, with the IRS alerting people to beware of attempts at identity theft through emails, text messages, social media interactions, and phone calls (voice phishing, or "vishing"). Phishing scams tend to surge during tax season, looing to trick tax professionals along with taxpayers. The agency noted, "Phishing scams target individuals with communications appearing to come from legitimate sources to collect victims' personal and financial data and potentially infect their devices by convincing the target to download malicious programs. Cybercriminals usually send these phishing communications by email but may also use text messages or social media posts or messaging."

The third category of scams highlighted by the IRS involves "ruses focusing on unsuspecting victims," which the agency identified as fake charities, scams targeting senior citizens and immigrants, Offer in Compromise (OIC) mills, unscrupulous tax return preparers (typically the so-called ghost preparers), and unemployment insurance fraud. In the final installment of its 2021 "Dirty Dozen" list, the IRS drew attention to "schemes peddled by tax promoters, including syndicated conservation easements, abusive micro-captive insurance arrangements, and other abusive arrangements." This category includes potentially abusive use of the US-Malta tax treaty, improper claims of business credits, and improper monetized installment sales.

In each annual publication, the IRS provides a detailed list of the scam-warning signs taxpayers should watch out for and offers advice on how to act in case of suspected fraud. "Educating individuals and businesses on predatory practices has been one of our priorities from the very start," says Philip L. Liberatore, CPA. "We have stepped up these efforts over the past decade as life and work become increasingly digitized, which has opened up new opportunities for entrepreneurial individuals but also provided fraudsters with new ways of scamming honest taxpayers. Working with trusted tax professionals and seeking their advice when a scam is suspected will help people avoid falling victim to unscrupulous agents."

For more than 30 years, Philip L. Liberatore, CPA has been catering to the tax and accounting needs of companies and individuals across Southern California, helping its clients deal with any financial challenge they encounter. Founded by veteran CPA and entrepreneur Philip Liberatore in 1988, the firm provides a full range of business advisory services, prioritizing personalized care to address the unique issues of each client and ensure the best outcome. Committed to the highest quality of customer service, Philip L. Liberatore, CPA prides itself on being associated with values such as accuracy, timeliness, consistency, integrity, as well as its team's stellar credentials and continued investment in professional knowledge acquisition.

Philip L. Liberatore, CPA - Financial Advisory Support and Guidance: http://philliberatorenews.com

Philip L. Liberatore, CPA Comments on the Implication of New Tax Provisions for Digital Assets Industry: https://www.yahoo.com/now/philip-l-liberatore-cpa-comments-100000735.html

Philip L. Liberatore, CPA Discusses IRS Negotiations for Increased Budget and Plan to Ramp Up Hiring: https://www.yahoo.com/now/philip-l-liberatore-cpa-discusses-100000078.html

Contact Information:

Philip Liberatore

Philip L. Liberatore, CPA

16800 Valley View Ave

La Mirada, CA 90638

562-404-7996

phil@liberatorecpa.com

http://liberatorecpa.com

SOURCE: Philip L. Liberatore, CPA

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669657/Philip-L-Liberatore-CPA-Highlights-the-IRS-Annual-Dirty-Dozen-List-of-Scams-Directed-at-Taxpayers
Financing will support development of first-in-class CNS-selective sodium channel modulators

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / GenEp, Inc., a biotechnology company developing therapies that address unmet needs in patients with epilepsy, announced today the closing of a $1.45 million seed financing. The financing was co-led by the UVA Licensing & Ventures Group Seed Fund, Angelini Lumira Biosciences Fund and 3B Future Health Fund, with additional participation by the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation, Kids Connect Charitable Fund, PDI Ventures and the company's management team. GenEp is developing first-in-class, highly selective compounds that modulate sodium channels. Nav1.6 & Nav1.2 gain of function mutations drive uncontrolled seizures and result in treatment resistance in certain rare genetic epilepsies and other treatment resistant epilepsies.

"We are grateful to our investors for their confidence in our team and our science," said Andrew J. Krouse, President and Chief Executive Officer of GenEp. "Their financial support and deep industry experience will enable our company to make a difference in the lives of children and families living with epilepsy."

The company's proprietary mouse audiogenic reflex seizure model (MARSTM) allows it to rapidly screen many compounds in vivo in a clinically relevant model of human SCN8A epileptic encephalopathy, a rare pediatric disease caused by gain of function mutation in the Nav1.6 channel. Based on the University of Virginia's Dr. Manoj Patel's therapeutic insight that targeting the CNS isoforms of the Nav channel (Nav1.6, Nav1.2, and Nav1.1) to control seizures would be superior to targeting only Nav1.6, GenEp is optimizing its patented first series of CNS- specific sodium channel inhibitors to decrease over-active neuronal signaling while limiting off-target safety effects common to other isoforms and ion channels.

"We are excited to join in accelerating GenEp's important pediatric genetic epilepsy programs," stated Gerry Brunk, Managing Director of Lumira Ventures, manager of the Angelini Lumira Biosciences Fund. "GenEp's experienced management team (whose previous company Cavion was acquired by Jazz Pharmaceuticals in 2019), patented compounds, and innovative drug screening model offer a compelling opportunity to develop effective therapies for these patients' unmet medical needs."

In connection with the financing, Gerry Brunk and Marianne Bjordal of 3B Future Health Fund will join CEO Andrew Krouse on the GenEp Board of Directors.

About GenEp, Inc.

GenEp, Inc. is a privately held pre-clinical stage biotechnology company based on intellectual property assets licensed from the University of Virginia. GenEp aims to create therapies targeting mutations of sodium and other ion channels that cause rare genetic epilepsies and other treatment-resistant epilepsies.

About the UVA Licensing & Ventures Group

The Licensing & Ventures Group (LVG) is the intellectual property management and innovation commercialization organization for the University of Virginia (UVA) research enterprise. Founded in 1977, its mission is to maximize the intellectual, societal, and economic impact of UVA discoveries via commercialization to enrich and improve lives for the University, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and the world. The LVG Seed Fund is a $10MM evergreen fund that is uniquely positioned to launch and support new ventures emerging from the UVA research portfolio. The Fund is governed by an oversight committee comprised of leaders in early-stage investing and startup development who are all UVA alumni. To learn more visit lvg.virginia.edu.

About Angelini Lumira Biosciences Fund

Angelini Lumira Biosciences Fund is a corporate venture capital fund established by Angelini Pharma, an international pharmaceutical company, part of the Italian privately-owned Angelini Group. Angelini Pharma is committed to helping patients in the therapeutics areas of central nervous system and mental health, rare diseases, and consumer healthcare. Angelini Pharma operates directly in 25 countries employing almost 3,000 people and commercializes its products in more than 70 countries through strategic alliances with leading international pharmaceutical groups.

About 3B Future Health Fund S.A. SICAR, formerly known as Helsinn Investment Fund S.A., SICAR

3B Future Health Fund is focused on investments in areas of high unmet patient need. Backed by the Helsinn Group, and guided by Helsinn's core values of quality, integrity, and respect, 3B Future Health Fund aims to help companies with innovative technologies to transform new ideas into commercial solutions with the potential to impact health-related quality of life of patients. Drawing on Helsinn's over 40 years of investment into research and development and commercial expertise, the investment fund selects companies with technologies in a range of areas including cancer therapeutics and diagnostics, cancer supportive care, metabolic and gastrointestinal disorders, and dermatology conditions. For more information, please visit 3bfuturehealth.com.

Forward-Looking Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties and includes statements that are not historical facts. Actual results could differ significantly from results discussed. GenEp, Inc. disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

Contacts

GenEp, Inc.

Andrew Krouse

434-989-6299

akrouse@genepbio.com

SOURCE: GenEp, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669588/GenEp-Raises-145-Million-Seed-Financing
HARRISON, NY / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / One Step Vending Corp. (OTC PINK:KOSK), announced today the release of a new research report published by Goldman Small Cap Research, a stock market research firm specializing in the small cap and microcap sectors. One Step Vending is an emerging vending machine provider marketing an innovative CBD vending machine. To view the new research report, along with disclosures and disclaimers, or to download it in its entirety, please visit https://bit.ly/3pCO7DM.

In the Opportunity Research report, analyst Rob Goldman discusses how One Step Vending could emerge as leader in the next-gen vending space, leveraging its CBD vending model and approach.

Huge Market, Disruptive Model

Goldman noted, "KOSK is a pure play CBD vending company poised to lead its segment of the $21B overall CBD products market. The Company is set to deploy its initial set of machines in two of the fastest-growing, in-demand markets for CBD products, in early 2022. Each unit will offer best in class tinctures, edibles (such as gummies) beverages, topicals, etc. The refrigerated CBD Safe machine can hold hundreds of products and hundreds of SKUs. In our view, KOSK's machine has a significant advantage over other players in this nascent industry. The Company's vending machines offer a large interactive display which enables customers to drill down info on all the products offered."

Numerous Verticals, Innovative Feature Could Drive Repeat Business

"In addition to offering products at malls, gyms, health establishments, casinos, high-end grocery stores, etc., KOSK has a sleeper feature that could substantially drive customer value and its market cap," commented Goldman. "KOSK plans to offer an auto ship feature so customers can have their favorite vending product shipped directly to them."

KOSK Market Cap a Discount to Peer Group

"Our model, which excludes contribution from auto ship business, assumes revenue will jump from $1.56M in 2022 to $6.36M in 2023. Upside to our forecast exists based on pricing, demand, and the auto ship potential. We note that our price target represents a nearly 5x jump from current levels which is equivalent to the current market values assigned to its peers," stated Goldman.

About Goldman Small Cap Research: Founded in 2009 by former Piper Jaffray analyst and mutual fund manager Rob Goldman, Goldman Small Cap Research produces sponsored and non-sponsored small cap and microcap stock research reports, articles, stock market blogs, and popular investment newsletters.

Goldman Small Cap Research is not in any way affiliated with Goldman Sachs & Co.

This press release contains excerpts of our most recently published research report on One Step Vending Corp. The information used and statements of fact made have been obtained from sources considered reliable but we neither guarantee nor represent the completeness or accuracy. Goldman Small Cap Research relied solely upon information derived from One Step Vending Corp. ("the Company"). The information includes authorized press releases or legal disclosures made in their filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission http://www.sec.gov.

Separate from the factual content of our report on the Company, we may from time to time include our own opinions about the Company, its business, markets, and opportunities. Any opinions we may offer about the Company are solely our own, and are made in reliance upon our rights under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, and are provided solely for the general opinionated discussion of our readers. Our opinions should not be considered to be complete, precise, accurate, or current investment advice. Statements herein may contain forward-looking statements and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties affecting results.

A Goldman Small Cap Research report, update, newsletter, article, trading alert, corporate profile, sector or industry snapshot, podcast interview, or press release is not intended as an offering, recommendation, or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities mentioned or discussed and is to be used for informational purposes only. Please read all associated full disclosures, disclaimers, and analyst background on our website before investing. Neither Goldman Small Cap Research nor its parent is a registered investment adviser or broker-dealer with FINRA or any other regulatory agency. A Speculative Buy rating for our covered companies is defined as a company that we believe exhibits the potential to generate outsized returns despite inherent, above-average business, market, or financial risk. To download this research report or any of our research, view our disclosures and disclaimers, or for more information, visit www.goldmanresearch.com.

Goldman Small Cap Research

Rob Goldman, Analyst

410-609-7100

rob@goldmanresearch.com

About One Step Vending Corporation

One Step Vending Corp. is a holding company focused on the acquisition of market-changing and disruptive business models. The Company supports subsidiaries with key financial, sales, marketing, and operational changes designed to accelerate growth and shareholder value. For more information visit: http://www.onestepvending.com

About Sofos CBD Inc.

Sofos CBD Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, is focusing on the wholesale and retail distribution of CBD infused products from American suppliers. The products include edibles such as tinctures, capsules, oils gummies and other products. The Company is developing a wholesale network with stores in order to supply CBD infused products for consumers and has formed strategic partnerships with certain suppliers to distribute their products. The Company is also aiming to sell retail CBD products through the use of vending machines, online and is currently developing an online platform that will be launched in the future.

Safe Harbor Statement This release may contain forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements containing the words "believes", "anticipates", "expects", "intends", "plans", "seeks", "estimates", "may", "will", "could", "stands to" and "continues", as well as similar expressions. Such forward-looking statements may involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which might cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of One Step Vending Corp., or industry results, to be materially different from any historic or future results, financial conditions, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Given these uncertainties, the reader is advised not to place any undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of publication of this document. One Step Vending Corp. expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements in this document to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based unless required by law or regulation.

KOSK Company Contact:

Ronald Minsky

President

One Step Vending Corp.

600 Mamaroneck Ave.,

Harrison, NY 10528

Tel: +1 (212)-381 8029

E-mail:info@onestepvending.com

SOURCE: One Step Vending Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669617/One-Step-Vending-Corp-Announces-New-Research-Report-Published-by-Goldman-Small-Cap-Research
Employers must not take an "out of sight, out of mind" approach to team decisions

Some 60 percent of remote workers fear that working from home could hinder their career development.1 As firms continue with hybrid working arrangements, employers risk making decisions about promotions and development based on who they see most often, rather than who is best for the job.

Questionmark, the online assessment provider, warns employers to ensure managers are given the right tools, training and data they need to make fair decisions, and avoid unconscious bias, which may take many forms.

"Proximity bias" is an unconscious tendency to favor those who we see regularly. Increasingly-popular hybrid working arrangements mean teams are more likely to be working from different locations. This could lead to those who work remotely, or who are not in the office at the same time as relevant decision makers, being disadvantaged.

Neil McGough, General Manager of Questionmark, said: "Now more than ever, employers need to put the right people in the right roles. In a world where teams are disparate, they cannot allow themselves to fall into an 'out of sight, out of mind' mentality. They must ensure that decisions on promotions, team structures and career development are based on real evidence."

By checking the skills of workers through online tests and assessments, employers obtain real information about the strengths and weaknesses of individual team members. This can help them challenge any unconscious biases, including proximity bias, and make important people decisions, such as promotions and internal appointments, based on real information. This makes it easier to promote the right people and create appropriate career development opportunities for each team member.

The Questionmark enterprise-grade platform makes assessment content easy to create and adapt. The platform automatically marks papers and instantly compiles results. It is easy to spot trends and patterns. When the stakes are high, the platform provides a range of anti-cheating measures.

www.questionmark.com

Ends

Notes to editors

About Questionmark

Questionmark unlocks performance through reliable and secure online assessments. Questionmark provides a secure enterprise-grade assessment platform and professional services to leading organizations around the world, delivered with care and unequalled expertise. Its full-service online assessment tool and professional services help customers to improve their performance and meet their compliance requirements. Questionmark enables organizations to unlock their potential by delivering assessments which are valid, reliable, fair and defensible.

Questionmark offers secure powerful integration with other LMS, LRS and proctoring services making it easy to bring everything together in one place. Questionmark's cloud-based assessment management platform offers rapid deployment, scalability for high-volume test delivery, 24/7 support, and the peace-of-mind of secure, audited U.S., Australian and European-based data centers.

1 https://www.siliconrepublic.com/advice/proximity-bias-remote-working

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005224/en/

Contacts:

US: Kristin Bernor, external relations: Kristin.bernor@questionmark.com +1 203.349.6438

UK: Peter Sigrist: peter.sigrist@fourteenforty.uk +44 7720 056 981

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Brown's prospect contains visible gold along two main mineralized trends

TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mandalay Resources Corporation ("Mandalay" or the "Company") (TSX: MND, OTCQB: MNDJF) is pleased to provide an update on the deep drilling campaign completed at the Brown's Prospect at its Costerfield Operation (Victoria, Australia).



Drilling Highlights:

17-hole diamond drill program confirms the presence of a promising gold system at the Brown's Prospect, 2 km east of the current mining operation at Youle.





Drilling has identified two main mineralized trends exhibiting high-grade gold intercepts, including:

19.5 g/t gold over a true width of 1.01 m in BWN009, including; 38.4 g/t gold over a true width of 0.51 m and; 19.9 g/t gold over a true width of 1.70 m in BWN023, including; 158.4 g/t gold over a true width of 0.09 m and; 110.8 g/t gold over a true width of 0.16 m



Note: Further intercept details can be found in Table 1 in the Appendix to this document.

Dominic Duffy, President and CEO of Mandalay, commented: "We are pleased to report encouraging results from our ongoing drill testing campaign at the Brown's Prospect situated 2 km to the east of the Shepherd discovery and Youle mine. The most recent results confirm significant gold grades within fault hosted breccias along two mineralized trends, building on previous high-grade results seen and reported in 2020."

Mr. Duffy continued, "Mineralization across the two trends has been tracked over a 200 m strike and 300 m vertical extent. The Felix trend is associated with the historic shallow Felix Brown mine and associated alluvial workings that played an important role in gold production during the 1890's. However, the newly discovered Western Trend is not associated to the old workings and was unknown to previous explorers; it is therefore still open up dip to surface."

Mr. Duffy concluded, "A strong increase in data resolution through this prospect has allowed us to improve our understanding of the structural complexity associated with the mineralized trends. We observe that the structural controls on the Brown's mineral system could be likened to those that allowed the formation of the nearby million ounces Bendigo and Castlemaine gold deposits. This inference, along with the knowledge that the geological setting of the Central Costerfield line sits below the recent drilling success, provides further confidence that there is a more extensive, high-grade mineralization at depth."

A video has been prepared by Mr. Chris Davis, Vice President of Operational Geology and Exploration, to further explain the information in this release. The video can be found on Mandalay's website or by clicking here."

Drilling Results and Interpretation

Early success was achieved on the initial five-hole drill testing program at Brown's with BWN001 intercepting 14.5 g/t gold over true width of 1.27 m underneath the historic (approx. 1883-1894) Felix Brown Mine and paving the way for a more detailed testing campaign. Since the release of the initial two holes (June 22, 2020), a further 20 holes have been drilled to identify the nature and extent of gold mineralization at Brown's Prospect (Figure 1). To date, this drilling has identified multiple high-grade intercepts in a sequence of tightly folded sandstone-dominated turbidites crosscut by three main "panel boundary" thrust faults. Gold mineralization is concentrated in the middle thrust panel within narrow, brecciated and sheared fault zones along two main mineralized trends (Figure 2).

Figure 1: Surface map of the Brown's prospect, showing collar locations and drillhole traces. Coordinates are in GDA95 Zone 55:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/838e96da-52d0-4097-b2a2-b9d8e2aa5e6d

Felix Trend

The Felix Trend is a moderately west dipping trend parallel to the axial plane of the main Brown's anticline, expressing at surface with the historically mined Felix Lode. Mineralized structures associated with this trend are typically steeply dipping quartz-stibnite bearing fault hosted breccias, with associated stockwork veining and wide pyrite halos. These structures have developed preferentially in hinge zones of the main Brown's anticline, parallel to the axial planar cleavage. Visible gold is present in several intercepts along this trend. Mineralization along the Felix Trend has been identified over a vertical extent of 200 m and a strike extent of ~100 m; however, gold anomalism along this trend has been observed down to the Swallowtail Fault at a depth of approximately 300 m. An increase in gold grade observed between 1000 RL and 1100 RL may be caused by the interaction of the fault-hosted breccias with syn-to-post mineralization, northeast dipping faults. The anticipated potential for upgrade in this zone was demonstrated with an intercept of the highest grade yet seen at Brown's, comprising an interval with two steep east dipping gold bearing breccias and quartz-stibnite veining grading at 19.9 g/t gold with trace amounts of antimony over a true thickness of 1.70 m in BWN023 (Figures 3 and 4).

Figure 2: Brown's Prospect cross section along 6200N

Figure 3: Drill core photos of BWN023 high-grade gold intercepts and gold grades for each sample:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f8f09d07-4a1d-4c30-a48e-79ec62d71d02

Figure 4: Microphotographs of gold grains in the high-grade gold bearing quartz breccia grading at 110.7 g/t gold

Western Trend

The Western Trend is a broadly subvertical corridor containing several high-grade intercepts that occur in structures that have developed across a secondary antiformal structure on the western limb of the Brown's anticline. Like the Felix Trend, intercepts are characterized by quartz-stibnite fault-hosted breccias and veins with large pyrite alteration halos and in some cases visible gold. While mineralization along this trend has been identified over a vertical extent of approximately 100 m, the strike extent remains open and poorly constrained at this date. The Western Trend contains high-grade gold intercepts comparable to the Felix Trend, including a quartz-stibnite breccia with intense pyrite alteration grading 19.5 g/t gold and 2.4% antimony over a true thickness of 1.01 m in BWN009 (Figure 5).

Figure 5: Drill core photos of BWN009 high-grade gold intercept and gold grades for each sample:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3ce48dce-4c28-4969-bb92-b0b35e6e41b5

Panel Boundary Faults

The panel boundary faults that control the mineralized structures at Brown's Prospect are interpreted to predate mineralization and accommodate movement caused by shortening of the turbidite sequence. Minor fault reactivation during and after mineralization has been observed along these structures and drilling has identified areas of gold anomalism along them. The highest grade to date on a panel boundary fault was observed on the Metalmark Fault in BWN008 up-dip of the western trend, culminating in an intercept of 9.1 g/t gold over a 0.63 m true width. Mineralization has also been observed in the panel bounding Swallowtail Fault, the highest grade seen being 1.3 g/t gold over a true width of 0.67 m in BWN004. Excitingly, visible gold was also observed in the Swallowtail Fault in BWN002, confirming that the panel thrust faults bounding the mineralized middle thrust panel represent important pathways for the mineralized fluids. The Luna Fault, the deeper of the three panel boundary faults, exhibits intense sericitic alteration characteristic of a distal discharge of gold bearing hydrothermal fluids vectoring towards a gold rich fluid source at depth.

Future Directions

The Brown's Prospect drilling program has demonstrated the presence of a promising mineral system extending at depth at the Brown's prospect. Increasing levels of fold shortening compared to the central (Costerfield) line of lode has resulted in the formation of a strong fluid trapping environment and consequently, the distribution of the fault-hosted mineralized breccias is strongly controlled by fold geometry and bedding. Current interpretation suggests that this structural architecture may share similarities with the Bendigo and Castlemaine goldfields, which are found in a similar structural environment and exhibit similar controls on mineralization. Extension of the mineralized trends to the south, beyond the currently tested zone is expected based on the continuation of the north-south trending Brown's anticline, as well as the presence of historically worked gold reef systems along-strike at the Robinson Prospect (press released June 22, 2020). A soil sampling and geochemistry program is currently underway to cover the entire eastern corridor and identify extension of the mineralised system to the south. In addition, surface drilling along the eastern corridor will continue in 2022, targeting depth and strike extensions, including the Robinson prospect.

Encouragingly, mineralized breccias in the middle thrust panel at the Brown's Prospect may only represent the most surficial expression of a much more extensive mineral system at depth; district-scale structural and litho-stratigraphic modelling suggests that the geological and structural setting of the central corridor may be present at about 600 m depth under the tightly folded sequence of the Wapentake Formation turbidites. The depth continuation of the Brown's mineral system may therefore be hosted in the same favourable lithostratigraphic environment that hosts classic Costerfield-style mineralization like that of the Youle and Cuffley deposits. Gold anomalism in two subvertical quartz breccias under the Luna fault intercepted in BWN010 provides additional evidence that such a domain may exist beneath the Brown's prospect.

Figure 6: Conceptual cross section across Costerfield and Brown's looking north:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/072223be-a9a1-44a4-b06e-3aa9acb044c2

Drilling and Assaying

All diamond drill core was logged and sampled by Costerfield geologists. All samples were sent to On Site Laboratory Services (OSLS) in Bendigo, Victoria, Australia, for sample preparation and analysis by fire assay for gold, and Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) for antimony. Samples featuring coarse grained visible gold were assayed using a variant of fire assay known as screen fire assay. This method is routinely used to mitigate potential problems associated with heterogeneity in the distribution of coarse gold within drill samples. The procedure collects all coarse heterogenous coarse gold by screening at 75m after crushing and pulverisation, and subsequently fire assays the resultant mass to extinction. A mass weighted average of gold grade of the sample is subsequently calculated from the +75m and -75m fractions of the sample. Site geological and metallurgical personnel have implemented a QA/QC procedure that includes systematic submission of standard reference materials and blanks within batches of drill and face samples submitted for assay. Costerfield specific reference materials produced from Costerfield ore have been prepared and certified by Geostats Pty Ltd., a specialist laboratory quality control consultancy. See Technical Report entitled "Costerfield Operation, Victoria, Australia NI 43-101 Report" dated March 30, 2020, available on SEDAR ( www.sedar.com ) for a complete description of drilling, sampling, and assaying procedures.

Qualified Person:

Chris Davis, Vice President of Operational Geology and Exploration at Mandalay Resources, is a Chartered Professional of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (MAusIMM CP(Geo)), and a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101. He has reviewed and approved the technical and scientific information provided in this release.

For Further Information

Dominic Duffy

President and Chief Executive Officer

Edison Nguyen

Manager, Analytics and Investor Relations

Contact:

647.260.1566

About Mandalay Resources Corporation

Mandalay Resources is a Canadian-based natural resource company with producing assets in Australia and Sweden, and care and maintenance and development projects in Chile. The Company is focused on growing production at its gold and antimony operation in Australia, and gold production from its operation in Sweden to continue being a significant cash flow generating company.

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securitieslaws,includingstatementsregardingtheexplorationanddevelopmentpotentialof theBrown's Prospect(Costerfield).Readersarecautionednotto place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments may differ materially from those contemplated by these statements depending on, among other things,changesincommoditypricesandgeneralmarketandeconomicconditions.Thefactors identifiedabovearenotintendedtorepresentacompletelistofthefactorsthatcouldaffect Mandalay.Adescriptionofadditionalrisksthatcouldresultinactualresultsanddevelopments differingfromthosecontemplatedbyforward-lookingstatementsinthisnewsreleasecanbe foundundertheheading"RiskFactors"inMandalay'sannualinformationformdatedMarch 31, 2021, a copy of which is available under Mandalay's profile at www.sedar.com. In addition, there can be no assurance that any inferred resources that are discovered as a result of additionaldrillingwilleverbeupgradedtoprovenorprobablereserves.AlthoughMandalayhas attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differmateriallyfromthosedescribedinforward-lookingstatements,theremaybeotherfactors thatcauseactions,eventsorresultsnottobeasanticipated,estimatedorintended.Therecan be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results andfutureeventscoulddiffermateriallyfromthoseanticipatedinsuchstatements.Accordingly, readersshouldnotplaceunduerelianceonforward-lookingstatements.

Appendix

Table 1. Significant intercepts of the Brown's Testing Drilling Program

DRILL HOLE ID FROM

(M) TO

(M) DRILL

WIDTH

(M) TRUE

WIDTH

(M) AU

GRADE (G/T) SB

GRADE

(%) AUEQ (G/T)

OVER MIN.

1.8M

MINING

WIDTH SAMPLED STRUCTURE

BWN004 101.87 103.22 1.35 0.67 1.3 0.2 0.7 Swallowtail Fault INCLUDING 101.87 102.16 0.29 0.14 4.9 0.7 0.5 BWN004 107.03 109.23 2.20 0.95 1.3 0.5 1.3 Unnamed INCLUDING 107.54 107.72 0.18 0.09 9.7 2.7 0.8 BWN006 31.37 31.75 0.38 0.21 1.5 0.3 0.2 Unnamed BWN006 36.38 36.8 0.42 0.28 2.5 0.0 0.4 Unnamed BWN006 86.19 86.36 0.17 0.16 2.0 0.1 0.2 Metalmark Fault BWN006 147.1 147.97 0.87 0.39 16.9 0.0 3.7 Felix Trend INCLUDING 147.7 147.8 0.10 0.05 125.0 0.0 3.5 BWN007 164.03 164.16 0.13 0.10 3.2 1.0 0.3 Felix Trend BWN007 174.73 175.1 0.37 0.23 0.9 LLD 0.1 Felix Trend INCLUDING 174.85 174.92 0.07 0.04 2.1 LLD 0.0 BWN007 176.26 179.88 3.62 0.94 0.5 0.1 0.3 Felix Trend INCLUDING 176.9 177.43 0.53 0.14 2.1 0.1 0.2 BWN008 122.87 123.54 0.67 0.63 9.1 2.3 5.0 Metalmark Fault INCLUDING 123.14 123.54 0.40 0.37 15.1 3.5 4.7 BWN008 143.33 143.77 0.44 0.41 3.4 0.6 1.1 Unnamed INCLUDING 143.33 143.42 0.09 0.08 15.9 2.6 1.0 BWN008 168.62 171.47 2.85 1.63 0.5 0.4 1.3 Unnamed INCLUDING 168.62 168.75 0.13 0.07 2.3 0.2 0.1 BWN008 204.15 206.57 2.42 1.68 0.8 0.1 1.0 Felix Trend INCLUDING 205.87 206.18 0.31 0.22 4.2 0.2 0.6 BWN008 212.64 214.38 1.74 1.64 3.8 0.3 4.0 Felix Trend INCLUDING 212.52 213.79 1.27 0.25 18.4 0.0 2.6 BWN008 271.02 271.3 0.28 0.25 3.6 LLD 0.5 Unnamed BWN009 261.18 261.29 0.11 0.08 8.1 0.0 0.4 Felix Trend BWN009 271.15 271.24 0.09 0.08 1.2 0.2 0.1 Felix Trend BWN009 283.04 283.52 0.48 0.51 1.2 0.2 0.5 Western Trend BWN009 289.82 292.29 2.47 1.89 0.8 0.2 1.2 Western Trend INCLUDING 289.82 289.94 0.12 0.09 3.9 2.1 0.4 BWN009 313.51 314.78 1.27 1.14 3.3 0.8 3.2 Western Trend INCLUDING 313.75 313.87 0.12 0.11 17.3 0.5 1.1 BWN009 347.36 348.5 1.14 1.01 19.5 2.4 14.1 Western Trend INCLUDING 347.36 347.94 0.58 0.51 38.4 4.6 13.9 BWN010 76.22 77.34 1.12 0.99 0.4 LLD 0.2 Western Trend INCLUDING 76.9 77.12 0.22 0.19 1.8 LLD 0.2 BWN010 100.38 100.51 0.13 0.08 7.8 LLD 0.3 Western Trend BWN010 374.34 374.52 0.18 0.18 0.2 LLD 0.0 Swallowtail Fault BWN010 426.95 427.91 0.96 0.80 0.7 LLD 0.3 Unnamed INCLUDING 427.02 427.1 0.08 0.07 3.3 LLD 0.1 BWN011A 146.96 148.9 1.94 1.59 0.4 LLD 0.3 Unnamed INCLUDING 146.96 147.13 0.17 0.14 1.5 LLD 0.1 BWN011A 255.4 255.53 0.13 0.10 29.4 0.1 1.7 Western Trend BWN011A 348.13 350.65 2.52 1.78 0.4 0.5 1.6 Felix Trend INCLUDING 348.13 348.73 0.60 0.47 1.3 0.6 0.7 BWN012 22.5 23.36 0.86 0.55 10.1 LLD 3.1 Unnamed INCLUDING 22.84 23.36 0.52 0.33 14.8 LLD 2.7 BWN013 346.07 346.18 0.11 0.04 2.3 LLD 0.1 Felix Trend BWN015 426.95 427.91 0.96 0.83 0.7 LLD Unnamed INCLUDING 427.02 427.1 0.08 0.07 3.3 LLD 0.1 BWN019 88.26 88.96 0.70 0.24 3.2 LLD 0.4 Felix Trend BWN019 95.26 95.47 0.21 0.07 12.1 LLD 0.5 Felix Trend BWN019 125.98 126.54 0.56 0.46 20.9 LLD 5.3 Felix Trend BWN020A 105.63 105.91 0.28 0.07 3.3 0.6 0.2 Unnamed BWN020A 107.88 110.23 2.35 1.93 1.0 0.5 2.2 Unnamed INCLUDING 108.39 108.53 0.14 0.11 6.7 4.0 1.0 BWN020A 134.85 137.6 2.75 1.74 1.2 0.3 1.8 Unnamed INCLUDING 135.35 135.8 0.45 0.32 4.3 LLD 0.8 BWN020A 187.36 190.42 3.06 0.79 2.0 0.3 1.2 Western Trend INCLUDING 189.29 189.53 0.24 0.06 23.4 2.8 1.0 BWN020A 256.54 261.63 5.09 1.74 0.5 0.0 0.5 Western Trend INCLUDING 260.11 260.3 0.19 0.06 3.6 LLD 0.1 BWN021 243.94 248.09 4.15 1.74 1.3 0.3 1.9 Western Trend BWN022 294.05 297.09 3.04 1.74 1.1 0.1 1.2 Western Trend BWN023 221.09 222.95 1.86 1.70 19.9 0.0 18.9 Felix Trend INCLUDING 221.09 221.19 0.10 0.09 158.4 LLD 7.9 INCLUDING 222.77 222.95 0.18 0.16 110.8 0.0 9.9 BWN023 224 224.19 0.19 0.05 16.5 LLD 0.5 Felix Trend

Notes

1. The AuEq (gold equivalent) grade is calculated using the following formula:



AuEq g per t = Au g per t + Sb% x Sb price per 10kg x Sb processing recovery Au price per g x Au processing recovery

Prices and recoveries used: Au $/oz = 1,760; Sb $/t = 12,800; Au Recovery = 93% and; Sb Recovery = 95%

2. LLD signifies an undetectable amount of antimony. Detection limit for the analysis used is 0.01%

3. Composites that are not interpreted to be connected to a named vein or trend and are below 1 g/t Au are not considered significant and are not recorded here.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - American Aires Inc. (CSE: WIFI) (the "Company" or "Aires") is proud to announce the upcoming launch of their new e-commerce web portal, which has been built on Shopify's newly released Online Store 2.0 framework. By incorporating this newest technology, Aires can take full advantage of Shopify's platform in order to build, deploy and optimize features and experiences while keeping expedited deployment timelines. Shopify's industry-best app marketplace provides access to leading marketing and business intelligence tools, which can benefit both Aires and its customers. Furthermore, Aires plans to capitalize on Shopify's deep integration with leading social media platforms, opening new channels for the continued expansion of Aires' global customer base.

Aires is focused on the development and implementation of innovative technology solutions that reduce the harmful effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). Previously, they built a technology suite designed to provide a fast and smooth mobile experience while also supporting thousands of users simultaneously. "Speed and a world-class mobile experience have always been our top priority," said Josh Bruni, Chief Revenue Officer. "According to internal sources at Shopify, as well as several external sources, Shopify's new 2.0 platform is believed to be 35% faster than previous versions, positioning Shopify on par with today's category leaders."

Bruni continued to say, "Having spent nearly two decades in the e-commerce industry, I have firsthand user experience with nearly every major platform. Depending on several factors, such as the type of company, the stage of the lifecycle they occupy, their stated business objectives as well as the skills within the team and so on, certain platforms may make more sense than others. Weighing all of these factors, Aires has established that utilizing the new Shopify platform is the best move; particularly given our current position, where scaling customer acquisition and engaging a global audience is of the utmost importance."

As Aires is able to rapidly test and iterate at all stages of the customer journey, it is expected to move and accelerate the Company's growth trajectory. Within the e-commerce segment, it is common for platforms to become a bottleneck or hindrance rather than a tool capable of assisting in acceleration. By Aires making this shift, the Company anticipates it will lead to a reduction in development time and costs, while also ensuring access to the critical data required to support the continued growth. Currently, the Company is sharply focused on identifying and unlocking growth potential across all areas of the business, which represents a key milestone. By continuing to focus on efficiencies and improvements, Aires strives to drive positive changes and beneficial impact on every facet under the Company's control.

Aires anticipates launching the e-commerce portal on the new platform in the first half of November, in advance of the upcoming 2021 holiday shopping season. For updates on this launch and other related news, visit AiresTech.com to sign up for the Company's email newsletter.

About American Aires Inc.

American Aires Inc. is Canadian-based nanotechnology company which has developed proprietary silicon-based microprocessors that reduce the harmful effects of electromagnetic radiation (EMR). The technology was developed by a team of highly accredited scientists and confirmed by independent third-party validation including peer reviewed studies and publications in scientific journals. Aires' Lifetune products specifically target EMR emitted by consumer electronic devices such as cellphones, computers, baby monitors, Wi-Fi radiation, including the rapidly expanding next-generation high-speed 5G networks. Aires is listed on the CSE under ticker 'WIFI'. Learn more at www.airestech.com.

On behalf of the board of directors

Company Contact:

Dimitry Serov, CEO

Email: dimitry@airestech.com

Telephone: (905) 482-4667

Website: www.airestech.com

For further information please contact:

5 Quarters Investor Relations, Inc.

Cindy Gray, CEO & Managing Director

Email: wifi@airestech.com

Telephone: (403) 705.5076

Certain information set forth in this news release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial known and unknown risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements regarding future financial position, business strategy, use of proceeds, corporate vision, proposed acquisitions, partnerships, joint-ventures and strategic alliances and co-operations, budgets, cost and plans and objectives of or involving the Company. Such forward-looking information reflects management's current beliefs and is based on information currently available to management. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "predicts", "intends", "targets", "aims", "anticipates" or "believes" or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases or may be identified by statements to the effect that certain actions "may", "could", "should", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. A number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the actual results or performance to materially differ from any future results or performance expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, certain of which are beyond the control of the Company including, but not limited to, the impact of general economic conditions, industry conditions and dependence upon regulatory approvals. Certain material assumptions regarding such forward-looking statements may be discussed in this news release and the Company's annual and quarterly management's discussion and analysis filed at www.sedar.com. Readers are cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such information, although considered reasonable at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and, as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. The Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by securities laws.

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. The Shares have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States, or to or for the account or benefit of any person in the United States, absent registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any common shares in the United States, or in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. We seek safe harbour.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - CGX Energy Inc. (TSXV: OYL) ("CGX" or the "Company"), announces the appointment of Todd Durkee as Vice-President of Development. Mr. Durkee will oversee the development aspects of the Company's projects on its petroleum prospecting licences and deep-water port development. Mr. Durkee will be a core member of the Company's management team, bringing deep industry experience in key strategic and decision making positions. Mr. Durkee was most recently the Vice President of Worldwide Deepwater Drilling and Completions of Anadarko Petroleum Corporation ("Anadarko").

Gabriel de Alba, CGX's Co-Chairman, said: "We are very pleased to have Todd join our leadership team. Todd has unparalleled experience and expertise as it relates to deep water drilling and completions across basins worldwide. We look forward to Todd's contributions as we continue to advance our exploration program."

Mr. Durkee has 33 years extensive experience in oil and gas operations in many international basins, primarily offshore. His career started with Kerr-McGee in 1988 where he rose through the operational, technical and management ranks working in the US Gulf of Mexico ("GoM"), North Sea (UK) and Alaska. Through the merger with Anadarko in 2006, he was named General Manager of GoM/International Exploration drilling and completions. During his time at Anadarko, he was responsible for international drilling projects in Gulf of Mexico, West Africa, East Africa, North Africa, Middle East, Indonesia, New Zealand, Colombia, Brazil and Alaska. In 2017, Mr. Durkee was named Anadarko's Vice President of Worldwide Deepwater Drilling and Completions. Following Occidental Petroleum acquisition of Anadarko in August 2019, Mr. Durkee retired from the Company in March 2020. Mr. Durkee holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Petroleum Engineering from Louisiana State University.

In connection with the appointment of Mr. Durkee and the prior appointment of Veronique Giry to CGX's Board of Directors at the Company's annual and special meeting of shareholders held on June 30, 2021, the Company has today granted a total 1,800,000 incentive stock options ("Options"). The Options were granted pursuant to the Company's stock option plan and are exercisable at a price of Canadian $1.36 per share and expire on October 24, 2026. These Options vest as follows: (a) 1/3 of the Options granted on one year anniversary date of grant; (b) 1/3 of the Options granted on the second anniversary of the Option grant; and (c) 1/3 of the Options granted, being the remaining amount, on the third anniversary of the Option grant, subject to a vesting acceleration clause under certain events.

Photo of Mr. Todd Durkee

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/5961/100858_1af2a0f204bcea3b_001full.jpg

About CGX

CGX is a Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company focused on the exploration of oil in the Guyana-Suriname Basin and the development of a deep water port in the Berbice, Guyana.

NEITHER THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE, TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR THEIR REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDERS (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TORONTO STOCK EXCHANGE AND TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE

Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that CGX believes, expect or anticipates will or may occur in the future (including, without limitation, statements regarding the advancement of the exploration and development plans and the development of a deep water port in the Berbice, Guyana are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements reflect the current expectations or beliefs of CGX, as the case may be, based on information currently available to them. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in the forward-looking statements, and even if such actual results are realized or substantially realized, there can be no assurance that they will have the expected consequences to, or effects on, the Company. Factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations include, among other things: the need to obtain any required regulatory approval; the ability to successfully explore and develop the offshore blocks, and to fund such exploration and development and the impact thereof of unforeseen costs and expenses; changes in equity and debt markets; perceptions of the prospects and the prospects of the oil and gas industry in the countries where the Company operates or has investments; and the other risks disclosed under the heading "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in the Company's annual information form dated May 5, 2021 filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, CGX 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 CGX believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking statements applicable to it 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.

For further information, please contact: Tralisa Maraj, Chief Financial Officer at (832) 300-3200

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100858
BioNTech signs Memorandum of Understanding with Rwandan Government and the Institut Pasteur de Dakar. Construction of the first mRNA manufacturing facility in Africa is planned to be initiated in mid-2022

First manufacturing facility will become a node in a decentralized and robust African end-to-end manufacturing network

Development and implementation of a scalable regional manufacturing network to enable an annual manufacturing capacity of several hundreds of million mRNA vaccine doses

MAINZ, Germany, October 26, 2021 - BioNTech SE in Berlin on August 27, 2021.

"I would like to thank all participants of today's meeting for the support and trust to establish the first mRNA manufacturing facility within the African Union. Together, we will work on developing a regional manufacturing network to support the access to vaccines manufactured in Africa, for Africa," said Ugur Sahin,M.D., CEO and Co-founder of BioNTech. "Our goal is to develop vaccines in the African Union and to establish sustainable vaccine production capabilities to jointly improve medical care in Africa. We have made great progress in the past few weeks, which will help us on our way to turn these plans into reality."

Sierk Poetting, COO of BioNTech added: "We aim to accelerate the building of a GMP-certified manufacturing facility and plan to begin the construction on site in mid-2022. The MoU underlines that time is a critical success factor in the development of sustainable vaccine production for the African Union. We have finalized the planning and initial assets for the new facility have already been ordered."

The parties agree to jointly establish end-to-end manufacturing capacities for mRNA-based vaccines in Africa starting immediately. BioNTech has finalized the construction plans and ordered the assets, which will be delivered by mid-2022. The new manufacturing facility could become the first node in a decentralized and robust African end-to-end manufacturing network enabling an annual manufacturing capacity of several hundreds of million mRNA vaccine doses.

BioNTech plans to develop and implement a scalable construction network based on the expertise and learnings from the ramp-up of the Company's production facility in Marburg. To enable an expedient set-up of production capacities according to GMP standards, BioNTech will start with the construction and validation of a first production line enabling the manufacturing of drug product for about 50 million of e.g. COVID-19 vaccine doses per year, once fully operational. The capacity will be increased sequentially by adding further manufacturing lines and sites to the manufacturing network on the continent, supporting the production of several hundreds of millions of mRNA vaccine doses.

BioNTech will initially staff, own and operate the facility to support the safe and rapid initiation of the production of mRNA-based vaccine doses. BioNTech plans to transfer manufacturing capacities and the know-how to local partners. Therefore, BioNTech, the Rwanda Development Board and Institut Pasteur de Dakar in Senegal agreed to swiftly build-up the required human resources capacity and systems so that the partners can take over ownership and operational duties. In parallel, the Republic of Rwanda and the Institut Pasteur de Dakar have committed themselves to scale-up fill and finish capacities to complete the local end-to-end manufacturing process. In addition, BioNTech is in discussions about an expansion of the current partnership with Cape Town-based vaccine manufacturer Biovac, which is part of the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine manufaturing network.

"State-of-the-art facilities like this will be life-savers and game-changers for Africa and could lead to millions of cutting edge vaccines being made for Africans, by Africans in Africa," said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, World Health Organization Regional Director for Africa. "This is also crucial for transferring knowledge and know-how, bringing in new jobs and skills and ultimately strengthening Africa's health security. WHO is ready to work with countries to step up their commitment to vaccine manufacturing."

"By working together, in the spirit of this meeting, the African Union, the European Union, key technology partners, and other stakeholders, can make decisive contributions and effective coordination in the fight against this pandemic, and future health challenges," commented Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission.

About the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine

The Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, which is based on BioNTech's proprietary mRNA technology, was developed by both BioNTech and Pfizer. BioNTech is the Marketing Authorization Holder in the United States, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Canada and the holder of Emergency Use Authorizations or equivalents in the United States (jointly with Pfizer) and other countries. Submissions to pursue regulatory approvals in those countries where Emergency Use Authorizations or equivalent were initially granted are planned.

About BioNTech

Biopharmaceutical New Technologies is a next generation immunotherapy company pioneering novel therapies for cancer and other serious diseases. The Company exploits a wide array of computational discovery and therapeutic drug platforms for the rapid development of novel biopharmaceuticals. Its broad portfolio of oncology product candidates includes individualized and off-the-shelf mRNA-based therapies, innovative chimeric antigen receptor T cells, bi-specific checkpoint immuno-modulators, targeted cancer antibodies and small molecules. Based on its deep expertise in mRNA vaccine development and in-house manufacturing capabilities, BioNTech and its collaborators are developing multiple mRNA vaccine candidates for a range of infectious diseases alongside its diverse oncology pipeline. BioNTech has established a broad set of relationships with multiple global pharmaceutical collaborators, including Genmab, Sanofi, Bayer Animal Health, Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, Regeneron, Genevant, Fosun Pharma, and Pfizer. For more information, please visit www.BioNTech.de .

BioNTech Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements may include, but may not be limited to, direct or indirect statements concerning: BioNTech's efforts to combat COVID-19; the collaboration between BioNTech and Pfizer to develop a COVID-19 vaccine (including qualitative assessments of available data, potential benefits, expectations for clinical trials, supply agreements and the timing of delivery of doses thereunder, efforts to help ensure global equitable access to the vaccine, the anticipated timing of regulatory submissions, regulatory approvals or authorizations and anticipated manufacturing, distribution and supply); our expectations regarding the potential characteristics of BNT162b2 in our clinical trials and/or in commercial use based on data observations to date; the ability of BNT162b2 to prevent COVID-19 caused by emerging virus variants; the expected time point for additional readouts on efficacy data of BNT162b2 in our clinical trials; the nature of the clinical data, which is subject to ongoing peer review, regulatory review and market interpretation; the timing for submission of data for, or receipt of, any marketing approval or Emergency Use Authorization; our contemplated shipping and storage plan, including our estimated product shelf life at various temperatures; and the ability of BioNTech to supply the quantities of BNT162 to support clinical development and market demand, including our production estimates for 2021; BioNTech's Malaria, Tuberculosis and other infectious disease vaccine development programs; timing for selecting clinical candidates for these programs and the commencement of a clinical trial, as well as any data readouts; the nature of the collaboration with the African Union and the Africa CDC; the nature and duration of support from WHO, the European Commission, the European Investment Bank (EIB) and other organizations with establishing infrastructure; the development of sustainable RNA vaccine capacities, production and supply solutions on the African continent and the nature, timing, and feasibility of these solutions; the potential set-up of manufacturing solutions in Rwanda, Senegal, and South Africa, either on our own or together with potential partners; the potential safety and efficacy of the product candidates; and BioNTech's anticipated market opportunity and size for its product candidates the rate and degree of market acceptance of BioNTech's investigational medicines, if approved. Any forward-looking statements in this press release are based on BioNTech current expectations and beliefs of future events, and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially and adversely from those set forth in or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: discussions with regulatory agencies regarding timing and requirements for additional clinical trials; and the ability to produce comparable clinical results in future clinical trials.

For a discussion of these and other risks and uncertainties, see BioNTech's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the Year Ended December 31, 2020, filed with the SEC on March 30, 2021, which is available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. All information in this press release is as of the date of the release, and BioNTech undertakes no duty to update this information unless required by law.

CONTACTS



Media Relations

Jasmina Alatovic

+49 (0)6131 9084 1513

Media@biontech.de

Investor Relations

Sylke Maas, Ph.D.

+49 (0)6131 9084 1074

Investors@biontech.de




TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / EQ Inc. (TSXV:EQ) ("EQ Works" or "EQ"), a leader in geospatial data and artificial intelligence driven software is pleased to announce the appointment of Mark Finney to the role of Chief Revenue Officer. With a strong track record of building dynamic and successful sales organizations, Finney, will lead all revenue initiatives across the organization as well as manage and support business development efforts and key relationships with EQ's diverse client base.

Having spent the last six years at Bell Media, as Vice President of Strategic Sales, Finney led a multidisciplinary team of over 100 people with the mandate of driving revenue through strategic insights and data-powered advertising products. Additionally, he was involved in developing long-term, innovative data strategies focused on customer success. Previously, Finney held executive positions at the Star Media Group where he was responsible for the strategy and implementation of various digital and data initiatives, and the Guardian News and Media, one of the world's leading English language newspaper websites. As an effective sales leader, Finney has become an expert in executing with first-party data and has delivered impactful programs to help business better understand their customers and more effectively reach their targeted audiences

"I am thrilled to be joining a world leader in the geospatial data space," says Finney. "EQ has always been steps ahead in terms of their technology platforms and providing clients with actionable intelligence. As data led solutions continue to transform the industry, and client needs evolve, I look forward to driving new strategies that will continually deliver value to our customers."

EQ is also pleased to announce the promotion of Mark Ditkofsky to Executive Vice President Data Platforms and Strategy. After 5 years of helping build EQ's geospatial solutions business, this new role will have Ditkofsky working as part of the executive team to plan and execute on the next generation of the LOCUS and Atom platforms. He will be responsible for delivering forward-looking data strategies and products that address market demand and further cement EQ's leadership position in the data innovation and performance space.

"We are thrilled to welcome Mark Finney to the team" said Geoffrey Rotstein, CEO and President of EQ Works. "His understanding of data and technology, and his experience in leading a sales organization will be essential as we continue through our next stage of growth. In addition, by promoting Mark Ditkofsky, and further leveraging his expertise to lead our data platforms and strategies, we are doubling our efforts to meet the demand and the growth for our data solutions practice. Mark has been an important part of the Company's progress to date, and his experience and track record make him the ideal person for this role."

ABOUT EQ WORKS

EQ Works (www.eqworks.com) enables businesses to understand, predict, and influence customer behaviour. Using unique data sets, advanced analytics, machine learning and artificial intelligence, EQ Works creates actionable intelligence for businesses to attract, retain, and grow the customers that matter most. The Company's proprietary SaaS platform mines insights from movement and geospatial data, enabling businesses to close the loop between digital and real-world consumer actions.

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Neither the TSX-V nor its 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 may contain forward-looking statements that are based on management's current expectations and are subject to known and unknown uncertainties and risks, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Corporation is under no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained herein should material facts change due to new information, future events or otherwise.

EQ Inc.

Peter Kanniah, Chief Financial Officer

416-260-4326

1235 Bay Street, Suite 401 | Toronto, Ontario | M5R 3K4

press@eqworks.com

www.eqworks.com

SOURCE: EQ Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669507/EQ-Works-Announces-the-Appointment-of-Mark-Finney-to-Chief-Revenue-Officer-and-other-Executive-Leadership-Additions
TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Sparta Group (TSXV: SAY) (the "Corporation" the "Company", "Sparta Group", "Sparta Capital", "SAY.V" or "Sparta") is now positioned to offer monthly billing of its energy saving and power-conditioning technologies on customers' standard power bills; transforming large-scale purchases into operating expenditures verses capital expenditures. It's a move that expands the market of potential buyers of cleantech solutions and thus the adoption of the Company's various power-conditioning technologies through its Illumineris division ("Illumineris"). This comes at a time when the energy landscape is transitioning to sustainable (green) sources and there is an increased demand for cleaner electricity.

The payment capability is made possible through Illumineris' agreement with En-Powered Inc. ("Enpowered") allowing Illumineris to offer its advanced power quality expertise through a platform that not only reduces operating costs but can significantly reduce purchasing barriers by seamlessly charging for projects, products, and services directly on the customer's existing electricity bills as an operating expense.

"Our partnership with EnPowered will help us to unlock additional power conditioning, cleantech projects by enabling our customers to bundle energy efficiency projects with their existing electrical bill. This means they will now have the opportunity to move projects from a "Cap-Ex" [capital expenditure] to an Op-Ex [operating expenditure]. While our customers will still have access to our expanding suite of power monitoring, power conditioning, and engineering analysis technologies, the Enpowered Payments platform provides us a streamlined option to offer such projects on a pay-for-performance basis; enabling our customers with the option to fund such projects from savings, making them cash positive from day one," said Sparta President and Chief Technology Officer, John O'Bireck.

Energy analysts report that there are close to 4 thousand electric utilities and cooperatives in North America, and almost as many ways to bill for power. The billing platform helps Sparta's energy solutions stand out in a competitive market, and it gives customers a clear view of energy costs, as well as savings returned by their energy management investments, all in one place.

"Most of the people our sales team speak with are interested in energy efficient technologies, but even though they understand the impressive ROI, internally securing capital for energy upgrades can be very difficult. However, having this billing platform expands the market for potential buyers of our energy solutions. It gives the customer the option of structuring energy upgrades as operating expenses with the charges right there on the customer's existing power bills," said Dan Slade, Illumineris' Managing Director of Operations.

About Sparta

Sparta Group (a.k.a. Sparta Capital Ltd.) is a technology-based company that owns or holds a controlling interest in a network of independent businesses that supply energy saving technologies designed to reduce energy inefficiencies, achieve reduced emissions, and increase operating efficiencies in various industries. In response to the COVID-19 crisis, Sparta has also expanded its scope to help facilitate supply of necessary materials while assisting talented inventors who are looking to introduce innovative technical solutions that will bring greater normalcy to the post COVID-19 world. Sparta's network of independent businesses provides a wide range of specialized energy capturing, converting, optimizing, and related services to the commercial sector. Sparta provides capital, technical and engineering expertise, legal support, financial and accounting knowledge, strategic planning, and other shared services to its independent businesses. As Investors are increasingly applying non-financial factors to their analysis process (ESG), Sparta continues to strengthen its environmental and social path by adding new green products and services, as well as advanced health technologies for human good.

Sparta is a publicly traded company listed on the TSX Venture Exchange Inc. under the symbol "SAY" (TSXV:SAY). Additional information is available at www.spartagroup.ca or on SEDAR at www.sedar.com.

For more information contact:

John O'Bireck, President

Email: jobireck@spartagroup.ca

Telephone: (905) 751-8004

This above may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. When used in this address, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Although the Corporation believes in light of the experience of its officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate that the expectations reflected in this forward-looking information are reasonable, readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking information because the Corporation can give no assurance that they will prove to be correct. Forward-looking statements are made based on management's beliefs, estimates and opinions on the date of publication of this information and the Corporation undertakes no obligation to update such forward-looking statements if these beliefs, estimates and opinions or other circumstances should change. Furthermore, the Corporation undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of the Corporation. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

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: Sparta Group

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669641/Sparta-Adopts-Payment-Platform-To-Advance-Uptake-of-Its-Cleantech-Energy-Technologies
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - TrustBIX Inc. (TSXV: TBIX) (OTCQB: TBIXF) ("TrustBIX" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the continuous collaboration between GBI Global Inc. ("GBI"), Cantriex Livestock ("Cantriex") and TrustBIX to test-market shipments of high-quality Authentic Angus Canadian beef to Hong Kong, have received positive feedback. These shipments of beef were sourced from animals that feature tracked attributes - Angus, hormone-free, feed details, and Triple A grading or higher, as well as harvest and shipping dates.

"In the premium beef market, attributes are everything. TrustBIX allows us to raise our internal standards to the point that we are able to separate ourselves from our competitors and add a level of attribute confidence that many companies simply cannot match," says Dave Saretsky of Cantriex, along with Keith Gregory of Cattleland Feedyards, partners in the Authentic Angus beef brand.

To add to the value of the product, the BIX platform was integrated with the Company's trusted blockchain partner, Innoblock. This will enable beef to be sold in Hong Kong with a QR code that features the grade, harvest date, shipping date, arrival date, and other attributes. Test-market feedback from retailers was that the product quality and flavour, as well as the information on the product, were excellent. All the value chain participants have committed to continue to work together and expand the network and volume of Canadian premium beef exported to Asia using the BIX platform as its trusted value-add traceability and aggregated data source.

GBI President Jack Szeto said, "We are proud to work with TrustBIX in procuring customers and obtaining a traceable high-quality Canadian beef product to Asian markets, including Hong Kong and Taiwan."

About GBI Global Inc.

GBI Global Inc. (GBI) is a Canadian company operating since 2015 and headquartered in Edmonton, Alberta. GBI's interests and experience are varied, laying in real estate development and international trading. With an established network of business partners and customers in Hong Kong, their export business to the Asian marketplace is in a strong growth phase.

About Cantriex Livestock and Authentic Angus

Cantriex Livestock (Cantriex) is a family operation with deep roots in the cattle industry in Canada. Along with their partner, Keith Gregory of Cattleland Feedyards (Cattleland), they have developed the brand Authentic Angus. Cantriex has spent over 15 years sourcing and selecting high quality, EU Certified cattle. The cattle are managed at Cattleland north of Strathmore Alberta, one of Canada's leading feedyard facilities. Cattleland is proud to have numerous animal welfare and environmental sustainability certifications. Both operations pride themselves on being forward-thinking industry leaders. www.cantriex.ca www.cattlelandfeedyards.com

About InnoBlock Technology Limited

InnoBlock, a member company of Incu-Tech Programme under Hong Kong Science and Technology Park and I&T supplier of the Smart Government Innovation Lab under Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO), is a company with the vision to implement blockchain technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to increase efficiency and transparency in various industries. The InnoBlock team has a vast amount of experience working with blockchain technology and AI, making them well-versed with its different applications and optimization methods. The three main domains we tackle are supply chain management, cybersecurity, and asset tokenization. For more information, please visit www.innoblocktech.com and follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innoblocktech/

About TrustBIX (TSXV: TBIX) (OTCQB: TBIXF)

As an innovative leader, TrustBIX provides agri-food traceability and chain of custody value solutions. The Company's goal is to create a world where we trust more, waste less and reward sustainable behaviour by addressing consumer and agri-food business demands. The proprietary platform, BIX (Business InfoXchange system), is designed to create trust without compromising privacy through innovative, blockchain-derived use of technology and data. By leveraging BIX and its unique use of incentive solutions, TrustBIX delivers independent validation of food provenance and sustainable production practices within the supply chain - Gate to Plate.

ViewTrak Technologies Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary, provides a suite of hardware and software solutions to the livestock industry in Canada, United States, Mexico and China, such as Auction Master Pro, Market Master, Feedlot Solutions and pork grading probes.

For more information, visit www.trustbix.com, or follow TrustBIX on Twitter@BIXSCdn, LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/bixsco-inc-/ and Facebook at www.facebook.com/BIXSco.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains certain forward-looking information and reflects the Company's present assumptions regarding future events. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the Company's actual results, levels of activity, performance, and/or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

Certain statements contained in this document constitute forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. When used in this document, the words "may", "would", "could", "should", "will", "intend", "plan", "propose", "anticipate", "believe", "forecast", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions used by any of the Company's management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the Company's internal projections, expectations, future growth, performance and business prospects and opportunities and are based on information currently available to the Company. Since they relate to the Company's current views with respect to future events, they are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause the Company's actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Given these risks and uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect future results, events or developments except as required by applicable securities legislation, regulations or policies.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Mr. Hubert Lau

President and CEO

Telephone: (780) 456-2207

Email: info@trustbix.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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100827
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - E79 Resources Corp. (CSE: ESNR) (OTCQB: ESVNF) ("E79" or the "Company") is pleased to report on the identification of a new prospective trend of targets on its Myrtleford property in Victoria, Australia.

Martin Pawlitschek, E79's President and Chief Executive Officer stated, "ongoing target generation on our Myrtleford license has defined a new prospective structural trend in the Twist Creek area of our license. Twist Creek hosts historic mineralization along a 7km trend on which these mineralized structures typically have significant vertical extends. Historic records show that most of the gold mines on the Twist Creek trend stopped the water table, generally at around 30 metres depth. Follow up work is expected to define additional drill targets similar to those we have identified at Happy Valley."

Twist Creek Trend

Gold was discovered at the Twist Creek goldfield in 1852 with the first quartz mining recorded as occurring in 1860. The goldfield was considered by contemporary mining authorities as hosting only narrow quartz reefs and therefore appeared to have been overlooked by the larger companies and was only exploited by small parties of independent miners.

Due to a lack of major capital backing, the independent miners were unable to exploit the quartz reefs much below the standing water-table which was generally found around 30 meters below surface. In addition, almost all the ore mined was processed through third-party toll treatment plants, at considerable cost, meaning that the 'break-even' grade that miners needed to produce was often close to 1oz per tonne. These factors often meant that only extremely high grade (>1 oz/t Au) ore was mined and when mining operations reached the water table the mines were abandoned and new reefs (buried quartz veins) not searched for.

The Company has been undertaking a detailed review of all available historical information and this review combined with a recently completed LiDAR survey coupled with field reconnaissance has identified considerably more prospecting and historic mining operations than officially recorded. A significant finding is that mining appears to have been undertaken over considerably longer strikes than previously appreciated. Several distinct trends of workings of considerable extend have been identified and will be followed up with additional mapping and rock chip and soil sampling.

Figure 1 - locations of the Twist Creek and Happy Valley Mining Centres

To view an enhanced version of Figure 1, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8350/100828_e2151fe5a49bfbd8_001full.jpg

Figure 2 - location of the Twist Creek Goldfield

To view an enhanced version of Figure 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/8350/100828_e2151fe5a49bfbd8_002full.jpg

Regional structural mapping and interpretation has shown the goldfield to be constrained by the Beechworth Fault to the north and trends parallel to the major Kancoona Shear Zone which just lies to the east. The Beechworth Fault is interpreted to dip under the Twist Creek Goldfield.

There has been little modern surface exploration and no drilling undertaken within the Twist Creek Goldfield. The Company's recent successes at Happy Valley in confirming the presence of significant gold mineralization at depth well below any surface depletion zones gives significant encouragement to future drilling programs.

Next Steps

 Application to Land Managers and other relevant Stakeholders in Twist Creek State Forest to allow Low Impact Exploratory Drilling to be undertaken.

 Commence first ever Exploration drilling campaign at Twist Creek Goldfield.

The Company would also like to announce the resignation of Rory Quinn from its board of directors.

Qualified Person

Peter de Vries, MAIMM, MAIG a "Qualified Person" as defined by National Instrument 43-101, has read and approved all technical and scientific information contained in this news release. Mr. de Vries is the owner of Geological, Educational and Mining Services (GEMS) Pty Ltd, a geological consulting services company based in Victoria, Australia, and is Exploration Manager for E79 Resources.

About E79 Resources Corp.

E79 Resources is focused on exploring for high-grade gold at its properties in the Victorian Goldfields, Australia. The Myrtleford property represents the consolidation of an entire historic gold camp with over 70 past producing gold mines on the property, where the bulk of historic mining stopped at the water table. At Beaufort, an opportunity exists to explore for a hard rock source of a major alluvial goldfield along a structure that is known to host gold in the region.

Martin Pawlitschek

President, Chief Executive Officer, E79 Resources Corp.

For further information regarding E79 Resources Corp, please email info@E79resources.com or visit our website at www.E79resources.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" with respect to the Company within the meaning of applicable securities laws. 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", "indicates", "opportunity", "possible" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although E79 believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance, are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results or realities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Such material risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the Company's ability to raise sufficient capital to fund its obligations under its property agreements going forward, to maintain its mineral tenures and concessions in good standing, to explore and develop its projects, to repay its debt and for general working capital purposes; changes in economic conditions or financial markets; the inherent hazards associates with mineral exploration and mining operations, future prices of gold, copper and other metals, changes in general economic conditions, accuracy of mineral resource and reserve estimates, the potential for new discoveries, the ability of the Company to obtain the necessary permits and consents required to explore, drill and develop the projects and if obtained, to obtain such permits and consents in a timely fashion relative to the Company's plans and business objectives for the projects; the general ability of the Company to monetize its mineral resources; and changes in environmental and other laws or regulations that could have an impact on the Company's operations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, dependence on key management personnel and general competition in the mining industry. Forward-looking statements are based on the reasonable beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by law, 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.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100828
The partnership will support strategic investments in talent, expanded capabilities, and geographic reach to drive clients' digital transformation programs

Digital Management Holdings, LLC ("DMI" or "the Company"), a global digital transformation solutions company, today announced that it has received a strategic investment from an affiliate of OceanSound Partners, LP ("OceanSound"). OceanSound is a growth-oriented private equity firm that invests in technology and technology-enabled services companies serving government and enterprise end markets. DMI will continue to operate under the leadership of the existing management team, led by Founder and CEO Jay Sunny Bajaj, who will retain a significant ownership interest in the Company. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Founded in 2002 and based in Bethesda, Maryland, DMI is a leading provider of digital transformation and managed mobility services to commercial and government customers. DMI offers an integrated suite of agile software development and next-gen engineering solutions that combine business strategy, domain specific knowledge and technical expertise. The Company works in close collaboration with its customers to address their complex business challenges and optimize their growth potential. DMI has been positioned as a Leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Managed Mobility Services, Global for six years running.

DMI has over 2,100 employees in 7 countries and serves a diverse portfolio of more than 200 clients including federal, state and local government agencies and major enterprises in vertical markets including automotive, consumer and retail, financial services, and healthcare. DMI serves its clients through a unique global delivery model coupled with its network of digital design studios, agile software development centers and mobile service centers located in North America, South America, Europe and Asia.

"This investment underscores the prime position that DMI occupies in the market and is a tremendous validation of the Company's long-term growth potential," said Sunny Bajaj. "Marrying our technology capabilities and customer relationships with the financial strength and network of OceanSound makes us even stronger and strategically positions DMI to be the leader during this period of extraordinary digital disruption. We chose OceanSound as a partner because of their extensive experience operating at the intersection of the commercial and government technology markets and look forward to leveraging their expertise in business development and operational excellence. This partnership will enable us to further serve our enterprise clients by allowing us to expand investments in our people while accelerating our market expansion and go-to-market initiatives."

"Sunny and the team have done a remarkable job building DMI brick by brick and were very prescient to focus on digital, mobile-first transformation solutions for government and commercial customers around the world," said Joe Benavides, Partner and Co-Founder of OceanSound. "DMI optimizes margin growth for its customers through a consultative approach to digital modernization centered on software development to improve customer experiences and other business workflows which are integrated into their customers' enterprise systems. DMI has excelled at leveraging their next-gen software engineering solutions developed for commercial customers to create differentiated solutions to better solve challenges facing their government customers. We are excited to leverage our strategic perspectives, engineering-like approach to value creation and extensive resources to help build a better, faster growing DMI."

"Companies are modernizing legacy applications and business processes at an accelerating rate and DMI's customers view them as a mission critical part of that journey," added Addison Nordin, a Principal at OceanSound. "The market for digital solutions is growing rapidly, increasingly complex and critical to the success of any organization. DMI is uniquely positioned to benefit from these trends and help its customers solve their most pressing business problems."

Blackstone Credit and Goldman Sachs Asset Management Division provided committed financing for the transaction.

Baird served as financial advisor and Jones Day served as legal counsel to DMI. Miles Stockbridge advised DMI management. DC Advisory served as exclusive financial advisor and Gibson, Dunn Crutcher LLP and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton Garrison LLP served as legal counsel to OceanSound.

About Digital Management Holdings, LLC

DMI is a global technology solutions company that specializes in digital strategy, design, transformation and support. DMI offers solutions for AI and Analytics, Commerce, Customer Experience, Cloud Platforms, Application Development, Mobile and Cybersecurity. Born digital, DMI has been delivering mission-critical, enterprise grade solutions since 2002 for over a hundred Fortune 1000 enterprises and all fifteen U.S. Federal Executive Departments. For more information on DMI's intelligent digital solutions, visit www.dminc.com.

About OceanSound Partners

OceanSound Partners is a New York-based private equity firm that pursues control investments in technology and technology-enabled services companies serving government and enterprise end markets. OceanSound employs a partnership approach, working closely with founders, entrepreneurs, and executives of middle market businesses to drive transformational growth. For more information, please visit www.oceansoundpartners.com.

*Gartner, Magic Quadrant for Managed Mobility Services, Global, Katja Ruud, Leif-Olof Wallin, Bill Menezes, April 6, 2021. This report was not published in 2017 and was previously titled "Magic Quadrant for Managed Mobility Services, Worldwide from 2015-2016.

Gartner Disclaimer:

GARTNER and MAGIC QUADRANT are registered trademarks and service marks of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and are used herein with permission. All rights reserved. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in its research publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner research publications consist of the opinions of Gartner's research organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this research, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.

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Contacts:

Media:

Charlyn Lusk, Stanton

clusk@stantonprm.com

(646) 502-3549
FT. LAUDERDALE, Fl / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Kaya Holdings, Inc., ("KAYS" or the "Company") (OTCQB.KAYS), the first U.S. publicly traded company to engage in touch-the-plant cannabis activities, announced today that it has completed the sale of its Eugene, Oregon cannabis facility for gross proceeds of $1,325,000.00. Funds have cleared escrow and the Company has allocated the capital infusion to repay certain debt and strengthen our balance sheet, as well as provide the initial stage capital for some of the Company's U.S. and global expansion activities, including its planned cultivation sites in Greece and Israel.

The Kaya Kannabis Greece Facility (designer rendering), together with Kaya Farms Israel are configured to produce approximately 600,000 pounds of GMP Certified, Premium, Medical-Grade Cannabis annually for potential export to the European Union and elsewhere (after obtaining successful financing, completing construction and obtaining final requisite licensing).

"The funds we have received from the warehouse sale are being prioritized to advance the generation of revenues, including brand/product launches and on-the-ground progress in our licensed Greek and Israeli projects, as well as to complete initial construction and licensing at our 26-acre cannabis production facility in Lebanon, Oregon," stated KAYS CEO and Chairman Craig Frank.

Kaya Farms Operations, Oregon

"Our plan has always been focused on honing the skills we need to master the six core competencies we have identified as key to building tomorrow's cannabis sector leader - cultivation, processing, retail, brands, distribution and technology," continued Frank. "We have become highly efficient in each of these skills, by expanding our knowledge based internationally to include highly motivated, experienced experts from Israel, the EU, and Latin America. We will continue to build tomorrow's industry leader, keeping to the long-term business plan we have diligently been executing, out of the limelight and without the costly mega-deals being done solely to satisfy short term investor demands. One day", concluded Frank, "the market will awaken to the reality that KAYS has quietly amassed the know-how, assets and opportunities necessary to secure its place as a long-term, competitive and worthy player in the global cannabis industry".

"The closing of the sale this past week for $1.325 million yielded a gross cash influx of approximately $.09 per share." noted W. David Jones, Senior Advisor to the Company. "There were no new shares issued to accomplish this and, as part of our recently announced settlement with Sunstone Farms, 1,006,671 shares of KAYS stock were cancelled, decreasing issued and outstanding shares by approximately 6.5% to 14.7 million shares. As we deploy capital to move the Company forward we have also allocated funds to raise the profile of KAYS with investors as we believe we have a very interesting story to tell that will ultimately lead to the creation of improved stockholder value."

About Kaya Holdings, Inc. Kaya

(OTCQB:KAYS) is a veteran U.S cannabis company with the historical distinction of being the first U.S. publicly traded company to hold and operate state issued, "touch-the-plant" licenses for the retail, cultivation and processing of cannabis.

Our operating philosophy is simple: consistently provide high quality cannabis products at fair prices in a friendly and convenient environment to a diverse group of customers.

Our strategic philosophy is patience: as Steven Wright so accurately pointed out, "the early bird may get the worm, but the second mouse gets the cheese". We started in 2014 as the industry's public pioneer and are pleased to have that distinction. Relying on our tendency toward patience, we elected to take the time we needed to successfully navigate a transitioning, highly regulated, massively hyped, growing and complex global industry, working toward establishing the fundamentals to support a global cannabis enterprise at a reasonable and sustainable cost. Our patience is paying off and we have launched our global effort, with initial projects in Greece and Israel.

Our business philosophy is proactive: while cultivating the right global opportunities built and mastered the essential cannabis fundamentals including commercial scale cultivation and extraction/infusion, strong brands, exciting retail, distribution channels, and access to technology. Now that the time to grow has arrived, we are rapidly acting to secure strategic global positions, measured capacity, penetrating distribution and qualitative/quantitative technology-driven competitive advantages.

Important Disclosure

KAYS is planning execution of its stated business objectives in accordance with current understanding of state and local laws and federal enforcement policies and priorities as it relates to marijuana. Potential investors and shareholders are cautioned that KAYS and its subsidiaries will obtain advice of counsel prior to actualizing any portion of their business plan (including but not limited to license applications for the cultivation, distribution or sale of marijuana products, engaging in said activities or acquiring existing cannabis production/sales operations). Advice of counsel with regard to specific activities of KAYS, federal, state or local legal action or changes in federal government policy and/or state and local laws may adversely affect business operations and stockholder value.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements, usually containing the words "believe," "estimate," "project," "expect" or similar statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements inherently involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that would cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, acceptance of the Company's current and future products and services in the marketplace, the ability of the Company to develop effective new products and receive regulatory approvals of such products, competitive factors, dependence upon third-party vendors, and other risks detailed in the Company's periodic report filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. By making these forward-looking statements, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release.

For more information, contact

Investor Relations: info@kayaholdings.com or 561-210-7664.

SOURCE: Kaya Holdings

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669660/Kaya-Holdings-Inc-Completes-Sale-of-Cannabis-Facility-for-1325-MM-Generating-Cash-Influx-of-Approximately-009-per-share-for-KAYS-Operations-and-International-Expansion
U.K.-based Gravitricity is planning to deploy its gravity-based energy storage solution at a decommissioned coal mine in Czechia. The project is part of a plan to commence a full-scale, 4-8 MW prototype scheme in a disused mine next year.Scottish start-up Gravitricity is considering the deployment of its gravity energy storage system at the decommissioned Staric coal mine, in the Moravian Silesian region of Czechia. The mine consists of six deep sites that could potentially host the storage solution developed by Gravitricity, which uses clean power to raise a mass in a 150-1,500m shaft and discharges ...

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.
The move will encourage private sector renewables companies to be part of the national energy industry, a representative of the regulator told a recent webinar which considered how to accelerate clean energy roll-out in Africa.Nigeria has introduced the franchising of its electricity distribution networks in a move which the authorities say will encourage the development of renewables. Abdu Bello Mohammed, chief of staff at regulator the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, told a webinar held by German development ministry entity Green People's Energy and Brussels-based membership body ...

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.
The "Startups in the Railway Market" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Start-ups are the engine for economic growth and competitiveness of a country and thus of central importance for the German economy. They break up and change established processes and industries and develop new business models. Innovative products, services and processes of start-ups create new jobs as well as economic and social progress. Innovations are not always of a technical nature, but they are of particular interest to the rail industry, as they promise to increase efficiency, production and quality as well as comfort for rail customers. In addition, technologies invented by start-ups make it possible to reduce maintenance and production costs.

A lot has happened in the sector in recent years: billions in funding for infrastructure expansion, rising passenger numbers, efforts to achieve European rail standards and major transnational projects. At the same time, topics such as urbanisation, sustainability, digitalisation, climate change and, currently, the effects of the coronal pandemic, continue to pose new challenges that need to be met with innovations. Above all, the growing demand for fast, reliable and green mobility is driving the rail market. Digital business models are shedding new light on intermodal travel, taking rail-bound transport to a new level with new high-speed trains or inner-city reinterpretations of rail transport.

This dossier provides a brief and general insight into the startup landscape in Germany, as well as sheds light on the rail industry and its efforts to attract startups in particular. It provides figures on financing rounds and sums, shows in which federal states the most startups are founded and provides an overview of funding opportunities for startups and introduces 33 interesting businesses.

Key Topics Covered:

1. Introduction

2. Definition of "start-up"

3. Start-up landscape in Germany

3.1 Effects of the Corona Crisis

3.2 Mobility and Software and Analytics

3.3 Funding programmes

3.4 Start-up promotion in the railway market

4. Start-up companies in the railway market

5. Market trends

6. Conclusion

7. Bibliography

Companies Mentioned

Ceda AI

Conimon

Core Environmental Systems

Datumate

Deutsche Bahn

Eco-Adapt

Embever

Everysens

HOELLEr

HOLOPLOT

Hum

Incoretex

Kepler

Kinemic

Konux

LiveEO

LPS

Machines With Vision

MotionTag

NEVOMO

OTIV

Ottobahn

PANTOhealth

Raildiary

Railvision

SIUT

Strayos

Teralytics

TerraDrone

The Train Brain

TRAINFO

VISCOPIC

ViSenSys

Zeleros

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/beewa6

About ResearchAndMarkets.com

ResearchAndMarkets.com is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends.

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Silver Elephant Mining Corp. ("Silver Elephant" or "the Company") (TSX:ELEF)(OTCQX:SILEF)(Frankfurt:1P2N) announces that it will hold a Special Meeting of Shareholders on December 14, 2021, at 9:00 am PST (Pacific Standard Time).

The purpose of the Special Meeting is to seek Shareholder approval to the Plan of Arrangement and Spin-Out of the Company's Nickel and Vanadium assets as previously announced in the Company's news releases dated August 26, 2021 and September 23, 2021.

The Notice of Meeting and Information Circular, together with supporting documentation, will be mailed to shareholders and beneficial holders on or around November 17, 2021.

About Silver Elephant

Silver Elephant Mining Corp. is a premier silver mining and exploration company.

Further information on Silver Elephant can be found at www.silverelef.com.

SILVER ELEPHANT MINING CORP.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"John Lee"

Executive Chairman

For more information about Silver Elephant, please contact Investor Relations:

+1.604.569.3661 ext. 101

ir@silverelef.com

www.silverelef.com

Neither the Toronto Stock Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Toronto Stock Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements contained in this news release, including statements which may contain words such as "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "estimates", or similar expressions, and statements related to matters which are not historical facts are forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such forward-looking statements, which reflect management's expectations regarding Company's future growth, results of operations, performance, and business prospects and opportunities, are based on certain factors and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In this news release, forward-looking statements relate, among other things, to: statements about the estimation of mineral resources; magnitude or quality of mineral deposits; anticipated advancement of mineral properties or programs; future operations; future exploration prospectus; future corporate events; the completion and timing of mineral resource estimates and the PEA; future growth potential for the Company and Nevada Vanadium; and future development plans.

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. Management believes that these assumptions are reasonable. 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 expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others: risks related to the speculative nature of the Company's business; the Company's stage of development; the impact of COVID-19 on the timing of exploration and development work; the Company's financial position; possible variations in mineralization, grade or recovery rates; actual results of current exploration activities; actual results of reclamation activities; conclusions of future economic evaluations; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of vanadium, nickel, silver, base metals or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar to United States dollar exchange rate); change 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 formation pressures, cave-ins and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure its shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be anticipated, estimated or intended. These factors should be considered carefully, and readers should not place undue reliance on the Company's forward-looking statements. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events, or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events, or results not to be as anticipated, estimated, or intended. Forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date of this news release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly release any future revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as expressly required by law. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements.

SOURCE: Silver Elephant Mining Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669688/Silver-Elephant-To-Hold-Special-Meeting-of-Shareholders-On-December-14-2021-To-Approve-Nickel-and-Vanadium-Spin-outs
Iconic Artist and Modelo Honor Mexican Heritage with Limited Time Only Packaging and Unique Merchandise That Pays Tribute to Traditional Dia de los Muertos Artistry

CHICAGO , Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Modelo, the beer brewed for those with The Fighting Spirit, is extending its partnership with legendary LA-based Mexican American artist and cultural icon, Mark Machado aka Mister Cartoon, to invite fans around the country to celebrate Dia de los Muertos in style. To honor the tradition of Dia de los Muertos, Modelo has launched 24 oz. Modelo Especial and Modelo Negra LTO cans designed by Mister Cartoon. The intricately designed LTO cans take a modern spin on classic Dia de los Muertos motifs such as skulls and marigolds by incorporating Mister Cartoon's signature style, visually demonstrating the strong connection between Modelo, Mister Cartoon and the traditional Mexican holiday.



To further celebrate Dia de los Muertos, Modelo and Mister Cartoon launched an exclusive line of merchandise featuring Cartoon's dedicated Dia art. Fans can enter for a chance to win items from the merch collection through the national Modelo Dia de los Muertos Sweepstakes or purchase online and at Zumiez stores for a limited time. The collection includes hats, T-shirts, sweatshirts and a tote bag, each emblazoned with Mister Cartoon's striking designs inspired by the artistic style Mister Cartoon is known for, and the iconography of this ancient Mexican holiday.

"We are thrilled to elevate our partnership with Mister Cartoon, leaning into our shared Mexican roots and his artistic talents to provide a unique way to celebrate the visual beauty of Dia de los Muertos," said Greg Gallagher, Vice President, Brand Marketing, Modelo Beer. "We want to make sure everyone is able to honor the holiday with specially-designed items that showcase the rich history of Dia de los Muertos and Mister Cartoon's unique style."

Much like Modelo, Mister Cartoon hails from humble beginnings as an artist in Los Angeles who had to fight to make a name for himself. Cartoon's story of grit, tenacity and perseverance on his journey to become the legendary artist he is today can be seen in the Modelo TV commercial, "The Fighting Spirit of Mister Cartoon." Fans will also discover Dia advertising illustrated by Cartoon in stores and at bars and restaurants across the nation throughout this month. See HEREfor assets.

"As a Mexican American, working with Modelo to spread the word about Dia de los Muertos has been important to me," said Cartoon. "Often misunderstood, the holiday is actually a time for celebrating our lost loved ones. By teaming with Modelo, I was able to create art that honors the tradition of Dia using my street style of artwork at the same time paying homage to my own heritage in the process."

The LTO cans are available in single serve.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER SWEEPSTAKES. Sweepstakes is open only to legal residents of the 50 U.S. and D.C., 21 or older. Starts 12:00 AM ET on 9/13/21 and ends 11:59 PM ET on 11/2/21. No alcohol awarded with prizes. For complete details, see Official Rules at ModeloDiaDeLosMuertos.dja.com.

ABOUT MODELO

Born in 1925 in the small town of Tacuba, Mexico, Modelo has been bringing distinctive high-quality beer to people ever since, including Modelo Especial, Modelo Negra, and a flavorful lineup of Modelo Cheladas.Modelo Especial is a golden, full-flavored Pilsner-style Lager with a clean, crisp finish. As the #1 imported beer in the U.S., Modelo Especial recently surpassed 150MM cases sold in 2021. The Modelo family of beers are exclusively brewed, imported and marketed for the U.S. by Constellation Brands.

ABOUT MISTER CARTOON

Mister Cartoon's richly detailed, hand-rendered designs are inspired by the style of tattoos that originated in the streets of 1970s' Los Angeles - fine line Chicano black and grey custom tattoo art. Cartoon took this style of tattooing and brought it into mainstream culture. He is known as a pioneer in the tattoo world, and as one of the first artists to get global notoriety by tattooing celebrities, athletes, musicians, and actors alike.

Media Contacts:

Kevin Hyde, kevin.hyde@ketchum.com

Stephanie McGuane, stephanie.mcguane@cbrands.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0e9b31ed-5db5-4d3d-a067-ce2aa949f316
Independent analyst firm and customer Trilio's case study confirms StormForge's delivers a cloud-based solution using machine learning to optimize Kubernetes application and resource efficiency

CAMBRIDGE, MA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / StormForge, the leader in cloud-native application performance testing and resource optimization, today announced it has achieved technical validation from Enterprise Strategy Group (ESG, a Division of TechTarget), an independent analyst firm that delivers market intelligence and actionable insight to the global IT community. ESG's analysis is detailed in a new report released today, "StormForge: Optimizing Kubernetes Application and Resource Efficiency with Machine Learning."

The explosive growth of cloud-native and microservices applications has changed the way that businesses approach their technology infrastructure. It is no longer enough to stand up a Kubernetes cluster and leave it at that. In fact, 91 percent of IT professionals believe their IT organization has to move faster than it did three years ago, according to the ESG 2021 Data Infrastructure Trends survey, while managing cloud native and container technologies are only making things more complex. StormForge's dedicated ML-powered platform is purpose-built for Kubernetes and accelerates cloud-native deployments, giving businesses a true competitive advantage.

"StormForge can eliminate time-consuming and manual testing and tuning, helping organizations make better Kubernetes resource decisions, achieve their business objectives, reduce costs and keep developers focused on innovation," said Kerry Dolan, senior IT validation analyst at ESG. "The company's ML-powered platform can transform the Kubernetes experience in IT organizations across industries. This is truly a powerful solution that comes at just the right time."

ESG is recognized for its in-depth and independent technical validation research, with recent reports conducted for Dell, Google Cloud, NetApp, Nutanix and many more: https://www.esg-global.com/validation

"Anywhere we can save time, there is a direct correlation to lower cost. StormForge saves us time and money. In my opinion, any development team should be using it," said Prashanto Kochavara, director of product at Trilio.

ESG found the StormForge solution to be:

Proactive . Experiments are done in a pre-production cluster, so IT can identify the optimal configuration before implementing it. Organizations gain insight into how applications will perform with various resource allocations and how much those allocations impact cost. Building this into the CI/CD process ensures optimization as applications change.

. Experiments are done in a pre-production cluster, so IT can identify the optimal configuration before implementing it. Organizations gain insight into how applications will perform with various resource allocations and how much those allocations impact cost. Building this into the CI/CD process ensures optimization as applications change. Single platform . Load testing and optimization are built into a single platform, so no integration is needed. StormForge also supports importing an organization's current load testing into the optimization engine.

. Load testing and optimization are built into a single platform, so no integration is needed. StormForge also supports importing an organization's current load testing into the optimization engine. Automated and machine-learning driven . Machine-learning drives rapid load test experiments across multiple parameters. Tests are created in minutes and scale to hundreds of thousands of requests and millions of concurrent users; results of each trial inform the next one.

. Machine-learning drives rapid load test experiments across multiple parameters. Tests are created in minutes and scale to hundreds of thousands of requests and millions of concurrent users; results of each trial inform the next one. Visual . StormForge creates the right test, automates as it learns from each iteration, and delivers a visual representation of the optimal configuration as well as numerous options. Users click on each data point to identify and export the configuration.

. StormForge creates the right test, automates as it learns from each iteration, and delivers a visual representation of the optimal configuration as well as numerous options. Users click on each data point to identify and export the configuration. Purpose built for Kubernetes. StormForge works on any CNCF-certified Kubernetes distribution.

"StormForge is dedicated to helping enterprise customers realize the promise of digital transformation, in particular the technical and business benefits of a hybrid cloud environment," said Matt Provo, CEO of StormForge. "We are excited to receive ESG's validation of our ability to optimize Kubernetes resource efficiency and cut through the complexities of an ever-changing enterprise, ensuring application performance at the lowest possible cost and least amount of effort."

To read the entire technical validation and report from ESG, please visit: https://www.stormforge.io/analyst-reports/esg-tech-validation-optimizing-kubernetes-application-resource-efficiency-machine-learning/

StormForge and ESG will host a webinar to review the findings of the technical validation on November 2, 12:00 pm ET. Attendees can register here.

About StormForge

StormForge brings together world-class data scientists and software engineers to enable businesses to drive breakthrough IT and operations efficiency. The StormForge Platform is set apart by its unwavering focus on building AI-powered software products that are designed to help people, not replace them. The StormForge Platform uses enterprise grade performance testing coupled with machine learning to drive major application performance gains and cost reductions in complex environments. In February 2020, StormForge announced funding from Insight Partners to accelerate the growth of its Platform. StormForge was founded in 2015 and is based in Boston and Washington, DC. Learn more at www.stormforge.io.

Media Contact:

info@storychangesculture.com

503-867-2304

SOURCE: StormForge

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669594/StormForge-Achieves-ESG-Technical-Validation-for-Optimizing-Kubernetes-Application-and-Resource-Efficiency-with-Machine-Learning
- Number of first trades made by clients significantly higher in first three quarters of

2021 compared to entire 2020 -

- Increase in client activity comes ahead of scheduled marketing campaign due to commence in Q4 -

London, United Kingdom and Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - GlobalBlock Digital Asset Trading Limited (TSXV: BLOK) (OTC Pink: BLVDF) (FSE: BD4) (the "Company" or "GlobalBlock") is pleased to announce that its wholly owned operating subsidiary, GlobalBlock Limited ("GlobalBlock UK"), has seen the amount of clients making their first trades* rise by 146% in the first three quarters of 2021 compared to the whole of 2020. Clients fall into both the B2C and B2B categories, made up of individual retail customers and corporate or institutional clients.

The increase in client activity has been completely organic, driven by word of mouth. In order to accelerate this momentum, a marketing campaign is scheduled to soft launch this week, where GlobalBlock UK will target investors currently trading both digital assets and other asset classes. This campaign is being spearheaded by Jayne Cripps, GlobalBlock UK's Head of Marketing, who has previously led successful campaigns at both CMC Markets and Interactive Investor. The campaign's initial focus is on the Company's unique multi-channel offering, that specialises in the provision of high quality customer service across their telephone broking, instant messaging, mobile app and online trading platform.

GlobalBlock UK is also pleased to announce that it has implemented the sophisticated customer relationship management ("CRM") software Salesforce, which will help meet demand from the business's growing client base and support business intelligence and reporting.

Rufus Round, CEO at the Company, said:

"It is exciting to see the business grow organically with the increasing adoption of digital assets and uniquely by word of mouth. As we scale up further, we expect this to continue with the start of our marketing campaign and make future enhancements to GlobalBlock UK's service offering. The implementation of CRM tools such as Salesforce is another step up for the business and its maturation."

Since becoming part of a public company earlier in 2021, GlobalBlock UK has not only experienced an uplift in client activity, but greater brand exposure via increased media coverage, with members of the London based team regularly featuring in major publications via their comment on digital assets. Readers can sign up to receive daily cryptocurrency analysis and weekly deep delves via this link https://www.globalblock.co.uk/cryptoinsights.

*GlobalBlock UK calculates the number of clients making their first trades on a monthly basis when the client trades for the first time.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

GlobalBlock Digital Asset Trading Limited is a publicly traded holding company (TSXV: BLOK) whose wholly owned subsidiary, GlobalBlock Limited (https://www.globalblock.co.uk), is a United Kingdom based digital asset broker that provides a personalised telephone brokerage service, trading platform and mobile app. Established in 2018 by an experienced team of financial services professionals, GlobalBlock Limited acts as a trusted agent serving the digital asset needs of individuals, corporates, institutional financial firms and intermediaries, providing best execution trading and safe custody of digital assets.

GlobalBlock Limited has been temporarily registered under the Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing and Transfer of Funds (Information on the Payer) Regulations 2017 as a cryptoasset business until 31st March 2022, pending the determination of the application by the Financial Conduct Authority. At this time, GlobalBlock Limited only accepts United Kingdom and Ireland resident clients or customers for its digital asset broker or trading services.

For further information please contact the Company at:

Rufus Round, CEO

c/o 65 Curzon Street, London, W1J 8PE, United Kingdom

Tel. +00 44 20 3286 2904

info@globalblockdigital.com

https://globalblock.co.uk/ and http://www.globalblockdigital.com/

https://twitter.com/Globalblocknews

https://www.linkedin.com/company/globalblock/

Media Contact

Angus Campbell

Nominis Advisory

angus@nominis.co

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Certain information set out in this news release constitutes forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "may", "will", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe" and similar expressions. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking statements in respect of among other things, the continued and successful development of the businesses of each of the Company and GlobalBlock Limited, increased client activity, the ability of GlobalBlock Limited to obtain the applicable regulatory approvals (including permanent registration with the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom) to continue to conduct its business and other information concerning the intentions, plans, future action and future successes of the Company, and its businesses, technologies and products described herein. Forward-looking statements are based upon the opinions and expectations of management of the Company as at the effective date of such statements and, in certain cases, information provided or disseminated by third parties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, and that information obtained from third party sources is reliable, they can give no assurance that those expectations will prove to have been correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements included in this document, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which the forward-looking statements are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause actual results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, risk factors set forth in the Company's most recent management's discussion and analysis, a copy of which is filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com, and readers are cautioned that the risk factors disclosed therein should not be construed as exhaustive. These statements are made as at the date hereof and unless otherwise required by law, the Company does not intend, or assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements.

ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE MEASURES (NON-IFRS MEASURES)

Items marked with * in this news release are alternative performance measures. Alternative performance measures are furnished to provide additional information. These non-IFRS performance measures are included in this news release because the Company believes these statistics are key performance measures that provide investors, analysts and other stakeholders with additional information to understand the operations of the business. These performance measures do not have a standard meaning within IFRS and, therefore, amounts presented may not be comparable to similar data presented by other companies. These performance measures should not be considered in isolation as a substitute for measures of performance in accordance with IFRS.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service 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/100820
Collaboration to Give Service Providers and Enterprises First Mover Advantage as They Strategically Evolve to Meet Demand for Flexible, As-a-service Consumption Models

Virtuozzo, a global leader in alternative cloud infrastructure and platform solutions, today announced a global partnership with Provdotnet, LLC (Prov.net), a hosted systems, colocation, connectivity, and cloud services software company headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island. The collaboration positions Prov.net as a premier member of Virtuozzo's HYBRID Partner Program, through which Prov.net operates as a global reseller, cloud service provider, and technology partner.

Prov.net focuses on helping customers design, build and deploy scalable cloud infrastructure through software solutions, connectivity solutions, and specialized data center architectures. In parallel, Virtuozzo is the leading cloud enablement solutions provider purpose-built for cloud service providers (CSPs), managed service providers (MSPs), and hosting providers seeking to develop and leverage alternative cloud services. Together, the companies will empower Prov.net's customers-MSPs, CSPs, multi-tenant data centers (MTDCs), and enterprises-with radically simplified cloud and Anything-as-a-Service (XaaS) solutions built on Virtuozzo Hybrid Infrastructure that are:

Quick to develop and bring to market

Easy to scale up or down

Cost-effective via pay-as-you-go pricing

These and other benefits ensure maximum profitability for Prov.net and maximum ROI for its customers.

Co-creating the Alternative Cloud

Prov.net joins a rapidly growing group of alternative cloud infrastructure and cloud platform providers powered by Virtuozzo. These companies are addressing end customer needs with services that emphasize simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and ease of use. And the timing for such alternative cloud solutions is now. Hyperscale platforms are generally designed with large enterprises in mind. Their solutions and required IT management skills are growing in complexity whereas their inflexible cost models are becoming more prohibitive.

To that end, Liam Eagle, Research Director at 451 Research, a part of S&P Global Market Intelligence, writes, "The natural consequence of cloud complexity left unsolved by enterprises is increasing complexity that becomes more difficult to solve over time, and likely leads to resource use and cost-spiraling."1

"Our partnership with Prov.net will accelerate Virtuozzo's mission to be the alternative cloud market leader," said Alex Fine, CEO, Virtuozzo. "As we enter the alternative cloud decade, technology continues to advance. Workloads are growing but so is the complexity of the landscape and the skills gap within organizations. Businesses ever more reliant on the expertise of resellers and MSPs to advise them on the latest technologies that are best suited to their needs. It's critical we choose trusted, proven partners like Prov.net, with deep technical competencies and a proven history of servicing Enterprise and XSP clients alike, to serve as alternative cloud providers."

With Virtuozzo, Prov.net is building out its alternative cloud offering with three new lines of business:

Software Licensing

Private Cloud Hybrid Cloud Services (Alpha3 Cloud)

Multitenant Cloud Services (Alpha3 Cloud)

"Virtuozzo's commitment to our partnership is strong and empowers us to solve our customers' problems of today and tomorrow, including the freedom to choose how technology is consumed and how IT spending is budgeted. Prov.net's ever growing portfolio of cloud software and related tools, coupled with our Alpha3 Cloud, are best-in-class cost-effective solutions. Solutions that will help our customers accelerate their business transformations as they reposition to capitalize on all the alternative cloud can offer," said Ron Sacks, CEO, Prov.net.

About Prov.net

Prov.net and Irontrust Networks (Prov.net Affiliate) help customers to design, build and deploy scalable cloud infrastructure, connectivity solutions, and specialized data center architectures to meet the unique requirements of each individual customer. As a global provider of OpenStack-based software, Prov.net and its Alpha3 Cloud complement what customers are already doing by delivering flexible, easy to administer, cloud services that support multi-cloud strategies, helping organizations and service providers. Prov.net's services portfolio dramatically reduces cloud virtualization costs and accelerates the digital transformation of all organizations.

About Virtuozzo

Virtuozzo (www.virtuozzo.com) is a leading, global provider of hybrid virtualization, storage, and cloud enablement software solutions. The Company's software-defined, hyperconverged self-service platform and resource management capabilities enable hosting and service providers to provide end-customers with public and private cloud services. Virtuozzo is an industry pioneer who developed the first commercially available container technology 21 years ago. The Company provides software solutions and services to over 750 service providers worldwide. A significant force in the open-source community, Virtuozzo sponsors and/or is a contributor to numerous open-source projects including KVM, Docker, OpenStack, OpenVZ, CRIU, and the Linux kernel.

1 Examining the Value and Opportunity in Alternative Clouds, Liam Eagle, 451 Research, a part of S&P Global Market Intelligence. August 2021.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005195/en/

Contacts:

Heather Ailara/Deb Brown

211 Communications

+1.973.567.6040

heather@211comms.com deb@211comms.com
Rapidly Growing Wireless Infrastructure Consultancy Achieves the Most Respected ISMS Standard in the Industry

MD7, a wireless infrastructure consultancy, has achieved ISO 27001:2013 certification, the international standard for managing data and cyber security. This certifies the process MD7 uses to manage the security of assets such as financial information, intellectual property, employee details, and information entrusted by third parties.

"Some organizations will not hire a company that doesn't have ISO certification," Scott Belie, MD7 chief technology officer, says. "The 27001:2013 certification is for data security, whereas the 9001:2015 certification we completed a few years ago focuses on overall quality and internal processes and controls."

"Getting a certification means that MD7 adheres to the international standard for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continually improving an ISMS (information security management system) helping to ensure an organization's information assets are secure," Thomas Leddo, MD7 chief strategy officer, says.

Some of MD7's customers, such as AT&T in the U.S. and Vodafone in Europe, prompted the company to become ISO 9001:2015 certified a few years ago because they adopted policies that encouraged all vendors and partners to be certified. "While achieving ISO 27001:2013, we discovered some other proposal requests that we've been involved with were asking particular questions about the security of data and cybersecurity in general," Leddo says.

More and more companies require vendors and partners to adhere to recognized standards to ensure that the vendors meet third-party standard requirements. It removes some of the work necessary to vet a vendor while providing a high degree of assurance that the company is meeting expected standards, explains Leddo.

"At MD7 continuous improvement is one of our core values. Completing this certification is just one of the ways we are improving our security footprint," Belie says. "With this certification, we are giving our customers better visibility into our security posture by comparing our efforts to a well-known industry benchmark. I congratulate the team on achieving this highly respected accomplishment."

ISO 27001:2013 is an international standard that helps organizations manage the security of their information assets. It provides a management framework for implementing an ISMS (information security management system) to ensure corporate data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. ISO 27001:2013 is supported by its code of practice for information security management, which guides organizations in implementing controls for managing information security risks.

About MD7, LLC

Founded in 2003, MD7 has deep roots in mobile networks and has grown to provide comprehensive expertise to operators worldwide. We understand mobile infrastructure is a valuable asset requiring disciplined management and investment in a rapidly advancing landscape. As the only dedicated global mobile infrastructure consultancy, we believe in extreme partnership and a personalized approach to every opportunity. Our team members, working in the service of operators, are driven by integrity, mutual respect, and commitment to deliver for our partners. For more information, visit www.MD7.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005372/en/

Contacts:

MaryLynn Heath

for MD7

Stanton Public Relations

mlheath@stantonprm.com

(405)641-9733
URBANA, Ill., Oct. 26, 2021program that provides rigorous training focused at the intersection of biomedical imaging science, machine learning and high-performance computing. The program comprises 36 credit hours of coursework that blends biomedical imaging, machine learning and computing concepts, and is spread over three semesters. Applications for the Fall 2022 on-campus cohort are currently being accepted on a rolling basis.

Biomedical image computing is a large and rapidly growing industry and research field. Image formation and analysis technologies are being revolutionized at an exponential rate due to the emergence of machine learning techniques.

"We are very excited about this new program that will provide cutting-edge training in computational imaging and machine learning for biomedical imaging applications," said professor Mark A. Anastasio, bioengineering department head and a co-director of this program. "Because the program integrates fundamental imaging science with modern machine learning, it is unlike any existing program and it will prepare students to be leaders in the field of computational biomedical imaging."

This innovative curriculum was developed by experts in computational imaging and machine learning for imaging applications in the Department of Bioengineering at UIUC's Grainger College of Engineering. Students will also partake in practical training through a capstone project that uses real-world data and addresses a pressing current challenge. This type of hands-on experience will provide immediate value to students and future employers. Graduates of this degree program will be well prepared for a career as engineers who are developing, translating and evaluating biomedical imaging technologies that leverage modern machine learning.

"Our vision is to train a new generation of students and leaders to meet the ever-increasing demand of talents from both industry and research institutions in this space," said Fan Lam, bioengineering professor and co-director of M.S. in BIC. Although applicants are expected to have an undergraduate degree in an engineering or other quantitative discipline, they are not expected to possess expertise in imaging or machine learning. As such, the degree will be accessible to a wide range of students who wish to pursue careers in the biomedical imaging industry as machine learning engineers or computational imaging scientists.

UIUC has a robust history and reputation for imaging science and computation. The department of bioengineering here traces its origins to the groundbreaking research in the 1950s by ultrasound pioneers William Fry and Floyd Dunn. Their fundamental work on the medical application of ultrasound made it a safe and efficient diagnostics tool. Illinois professor Paul Lauterbur was one of the first scientists to use nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in the study of molecules and materials - and later on biological organisms. His pioneering work in the development of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) led him to receive a Nobel Prize in 2003.

Students of this degree program will have access to and benefit from various biomedical imaging modalities, high-performance computing and machine learning resources on campus. This includes access to state-of-the-art facilities at Everitt Laboratory, the Biomedical Imaging Center , the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology , the National Center for Supercomputing Applications among others.

About The Grainger College of Engineering

The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is one of the world's top-ranked engineering institutions, and a globally recognized leader in engineering education, research, and public engagement. With a diverse, tight-knit community of faculty, students, and alumni, Grainger Engineering sets the standard for excellence in engineering, driving innovation in the economy and bringing revolutionary ideas to the world. Through powerful research and discovery, our faculty, staff, students and alumni are changing our world and making advances once only dreamed about, including the MRI, LED, ILIAC, Mosaic, YouTube, flexible electronics, electric machinery, miniature batteries, imaging the black hole, and flight on Mars. The world's brightest minds from The Grainger College of Engineering tackle today's toughest challenges. And they are building a better, cooler, safer tomorrow. Visit https://grainger.illinois.edufor more information.

Media Contacts:

The Grainger College of Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Huan Song

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Currently projects USD50 billion investment for climate finance by 2030

BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) announced today that it will align its operations with the goals of the Paris Agreement by July 1, 2023. The Bank currently estimates its cumulative climate finance approvals to be USD50 billion by 2030. This amount would represent a fourfold increase in annual climate finance commitments since AIIB started publicly reporting the number in 2019.

Earlier this year, AIIB announced it would target at least a 50% share of climate finance in actual financing approvals by 2025. Today's announcement marks an important step towards achieving this goal.

"We are at a defining moment in history-one which calls for bold, fast and wide-ranging collective action if we are to limit global warming and protect our fragile planet," said Jin Liqun, President and Chair of the Board of Directors at AIIB. "Today's announcement reinforces AIIB's long-standing pledge to support climate action in line with the Paris Agreement. We think the way forward needs greater participation by the private sector on all fronts, so that we can collectively deliver on the promise of building an inclusive, equitable and sustainable future."

Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the 2021 AIIB Annual Meeting hosted by the United Arab Emirates, President Jin said enhancing investments in adaptation and resilience for low-income members and fostering emerging technologies to drive action on climate change are key focus areas.

The Paris Alignment commitment would apply to sovereign and nonsovereign projects, including investments made via financial intermediaries.

AIIB is currently testing a rigorous process to ensure projects meet low-carbon and climate-resilient standards consistent with the Paris accord. The approach draws on the international standards and frameworks currently being developed in collaboration with other multilateral development banks.

In the lead-up to COP26 in November, more than 130 countries have set or are considering a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. However, the current level of ambition set out in these plans is, in aggregate, still far too low for the international community to meet the temperature goal of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees, compared to pre-industrial levels. AIIB sees leveraging emerging technologies as key to raising climate ambition.

"As an MDB located in the hub of innovation, we believe that technology can act as a lever to curb greenhouse gas emissions. However, this will require a more focused approach to the adoption of new technology as an essential element of any comprehensive response to global climate change. Ultimately, we need the private sector and institutional investors to come to the table to partner with us so that we can combat the worst impact on climate change," said President Jin.

An expanded focus on adaptation and resilience will complement the Bank's ambitious target of having climate finance represent 50 percent of AIIB's financing approvals by 2025. Climate finance accounted for 41 percent of the Bank's infrastructure portfolio in 2020.

"There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Properly funding adaptation recognizes that this work may require fundamental shifts in infrastructure and our behavior. Flood walls, improved building standards, resilient infrastructure are all tools we have at our disposal. But access to funds to implement these measures is vital, especially in developing countries," President Jin said.

Annual resilience costs in developing countries alone are estimated to be USD140-300 billion in 2030. Today, resilience finance stands at a mere USD30 billion, according to the United Nations.

In 2020, AIIB launched the AIIB-Amundi Climate Change Investment Framework, the objective of which is to hasten the transition to a low-carbon economy through the capital markets. The framework allows investors to analyze climate risks with investment opportunities by translating the three objectives of the Paris Agreement (mitigation, resilience to physical change and transition to green economy) into quantifiable investment metrics by aligning financial flows with a low-carbon, climate-resilient pathway.

About AIIB

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank whose mission is financing the Infrastructure for Tomorrow-infrastructure with sustainability at its core. We began operations in Beijing in January 2016 and have since grown to 103 approved members worldwide. We are capitalized at USD100 billion and Triple-A-rated by the major international credit rating agencies. Working with partners, AIIB meets clients' needs by unlocking new capital and investing in infrastructure that is green, technology-enabled and promotes regional connectivity.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1670228/AIIB_LOGO_DESCRIPTOR_RGB_Logo.jpg
The proposed transaction is expected to:

unite the Company's internet of things ("IoT") monitoring devices, software and data platform with Omni's 20,000 U.S. medical cannabis patient network;

further the Company's ability to pursue state and federal research grant funding in the United States for clinical research studies focused on plant medicine therapies; and

enable the Company to initiate a nationalized research strategy in cannabis with federally licensed growers in the United States.

TORONTO, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / RYAH Group, Inc. (CSE:RYAH) ("RYAH" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has entered into a non-binding letter of intent (the "Letter of Intent") with Omni Services LLC (d/b/a "Omni Medical Services" or "Omni"), a leading physician-owned and operated telehealth, cannabis clinic and certifications company operating in the United States, with respect to the potential acquisition of 100% of the business and assets of Omni.

The transactions contemplated by the Letter of Intent (the "Proposed Transaction"), if consummated, is expected to combine Omni's clinical research capabilities with the Company's IoT monitoring and control devices, and further the Company's ability to procure state and federal grants in the United States which are reserved for the funding of clinical research studies focused on the advancement of plant medicine therapies. In particular, the Proposed Transaction is expected to unite the Company's captive patient data platform with Omni's approximately 20,000 United States-based medical cannabis patient network and tele-health solutions, to create a complete closed loop digital care ecosystem in plant-medicine therapies, from patient on-boarding, medicine administration, session monitoring and patient feedback.

"Omni's research expertise and network of certified physicians and patients will enable RYAH to develop new and innovative clinical studies, leveraging the ever-growing pool of funding designated for understanding the efficacy of plant-based therapies in the United States. The complementary expertise that Omni and RYAH bring to the table is expected to accelerate our plans to be a U.S. and global market leader in the medical plant and nutraceutical intake industry, and generate significant value for our shareholders, partners, customers and patients," said Gregory Wagner, the Chief Executive Officer of RYAH.

In entering into the Letter of Intent, one of the Company's objectives is to leverage the announcements by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency earlier this year (to move towards extending federal cultivation licenses to applicants seeking to cultivate cannabis for research approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration). To this end, following, and subject to, the completion of the Proposed Transaction, the Company is expected to pursue relationships with newly licensed cultivators to supply directly to research facilities, utilizing the Company's devices and accessories) cannabis for use by such research facilities.

"This proposed acquisition will allow Omni to join forces with a premier data technology platform, and provide a superior level of medical services to our patients. Our doctors and patients will have access to RYAH's wide range of products including inhalers, patches, pens and their cloud-based IoT services, which is expected to give our patients unparalleled data insights to manage their pain," said David Koyle, the Chief Executive Officer of Omni Medical Services.

"With over 10 years of experience helping patients manage their pain with medical cannabis therapies, Omni is now poised to transition into advanced research trials for maximizing patients use of medical cannabis. RYAH will provide the perfect combination of resources and management to achieve our goals of extracting the science behind how the body best metabolizes various strains of cannabis, and create personalized dosing regimens to help our patients manage their pain," said Dr. Ryan Lakin, the Chief Medical Officer and Managing Partner of Omni Medical Services.

According to a report from New Frontier Data, the United States - the world's largest legal cannabis market - is projected to reach $43 billion by 2025, with 42% of the total annual U.S. cannabis demand projected to be met by legal purchases in regulated marketplaces.

Another report from Science magazine shows that the United States leads the world in cannabis research funding by far, with an estimated $1.4 billion in grants been provided in the U.S., and $1 billion of that portion provided by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) alone.

The terms and conditions outlined in the Letter of Intent are non-binding on the parties, with the consummation of the Proposed Transaction subject to a number of conditions, including, among others, (i) the completion of due diligence by each of the parties (including, a review by the Company of the regulatory framework expected to govern the Company's operations following the consummation of the Proposed Transaction), (ii) the receipt of satisfactory tax, corporate and securities law advice by both parties, (iii) the approval of the respective board of directors of the parties, and (iv) the negotiation and execution of definitive legal documentation which is expected to supersede and replace the Letter of Intent. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed on the terms set out in the Letter of Intent, or at all.

About RYAH Group, Inc.

RYAH is a connected device and big data and technology company focused on valuable predictive analysis in the global medical plant and nutraceutical intake industry. Its robust artificial intelligence platform aggregates and correlates Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant patient data, which is intended to help doctors and patients personalize plant-based treatments to better predict treatment outcomes. The data collection is relevant for clinics, doctors, dispensaries and pharmaceutical companies and licensed processors (LPs) to monitor and manage formulation effects on patient and demographics. With a strong intellectual property portfolio, RYAH gathers deep and insightful data on the complete patient session and formulation lifecycle. For more information, visit www.ryahgroup.com.

About Omni Medical Services

Since its founding in 2011, Omni Medical Services has been a U.S. multi-state leader in providing specialized professional Medical Marijuana Certifications and alternative therapies. Omni operates its network of contract physicians to evaluate qualifying patients and provide a recommendation for State certification. The Company does not grow, process distribute or sell cannabis. Omni Medical Services provides premium standards of care, with trusted compassionate services, exceptional efficiency, and the highest level of professionalism. For more information, visit www.omnidoctors.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively "forward-looking statements"). All statements contained in this news release that are not statements of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements. Forward looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "expect", "potential", "believe", "intend" or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. Specifically, forward-looking statements in this news release include but are not limited to, statements related to (i) the Proposed Transaction (including the entering into, if at all, of the definitive legal documentation with respect thereto, and the anticipated benefits of, and synergies associated with, the Proposed Transaction), (ii) the Company's expectations with respect to its ability to procure grants for clinical research studies, (iii) the anticipated unification of the Company's captive patient data platform with Omni's medical cannabis patient network and tele-health solutions and the benefits associated therewith, (iv) the Company's goals and objectives in seeking to leverage the United States Drug Enforcement Agency's announcement to move towards extending federal cultivation licenses to applicants seeking to cultivate cannabis for research approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and (v) the ability of Omni's research expertise and network of certified physicians and patients to enable RYAH to develop new and innovative clinical studies. Forward-looking statements reflect the Company's current views and intentions with respect to future events based on current information available to the Company, and are necessarily subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, risks and uncertainties associated with or inherent in the general business, technological, and economic conditions which may affect the Proposed Transaction, and such other applicable factors set out in the Company's public disclosure documents available under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Readers are further cautioned that the assumptions used in the preparation of such forward-looking statements (including, but not limited to, the assumption that (i) all applicable shareholder, and regulatory approvals for the Proposed Transaction will be received, (ii) the Proposed Transaction will be completed on mutually acceptable terms and within a customary timeframe for transactions of this nature, (iii) each of the parties will be able to secure for itself satisfactory tax, corporate and securities law advice, (iv) the Company any Omni will each be able to execute on their respective business plans and obtain and maintain all necessary permits and authorizations to execute on such business plans, (v) neither the Company's nor Omni's financial condition or development plans will change as a result of unforeseen events, (vi) there will continue to be a demand, and market opportunity, for the respective product offerings of the Company and Omni, and (vii) current and future economic conditions will neither affect the Proposed Transaction and the business and operations of the Company and Omni nor their respective ability to capitalize on anticipated business opportunities), although considered reasonable by management of the Company at the time of preparation, may prove to be imprecise and result in actual results differing materially from those anticipated, and as such, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements. Should any such risk factor affect the Company in an unexpected manner, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, the actual results or events may differ materially from the results or events predicted. Accordingly. readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Specifically, there can be no assurance that the Proposed Transaction will be completed on the terms set out in the Letter of Intent, or at all.

The forward-looking statements included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and the Company does not undertake an obligation to publicly update such forward-looking statements to reflect new information, subsequent events or otherwise unless required by applicable securities laws. All forward-looking statements contained in this news release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

This news release includes market and industry data that has been obtained from third party sources, including industry publications. The Company believes that the industry data is accurate and that its estimates and assumptions are reasonable, but there can be no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of this data. Third party sources generally state that the information contained therein has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but there is no assurance as to the accuracy or completeness of included information. Although the data is believed to be reliable, the Company has not independently verified any of the data from third party sources referred to in this press release or ascertained the underlying economic assumptions relied upon by such sources.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange 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.

For additional information, please contact:

Sofiya Kleshchuk

Client Relations

+1 917 210 0543

Invest@ryahgroup.com

Gregory Wagner

Chief Executive Officer

+1 917 210 0543

Info@ryah.com

PRESS INQUIRIES

Joshua Greenwald

KCSA Strategic Communications

+1 646 379 7971

jgreenwald@kcsa.com

SOURCE: RYAH Medtech Inc

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669696/RYAH-Group-Enters-Into-Letter-of-Intent-to-Acquire-Omni-Medical-Services
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - NEO Battery Materials Ltd. (TSXV: NBM) (OTCQB: NBMFF) ("NEO" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has successfully completed the conceptual design of its semi-commercial plant facility and is now entering the initial EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) stage for the construction of the facility in South Korea.

Mr. Spencer Huh, President and CEO of NEO, commented, "We are extremely pleased to announce that the conceptual design of the semi-commercial plant has been completed over the course of three months through a fast-track effort by NEO's team. NEO is now another step towards commercializing our silicon anode materials for EV lithium-ion batteries and is actively expediting our timelines and milestones."

As per the news released on July 8, 2021, the Company's management and engineers initiated the conceptual design of the pilot plant in which the capacity was later upgraded to a semi-commercial scale due to positive internal results and the need for agile integration into the lithium-ion battery supply chain for electric vehicles (EV). The conceptual design report has validated that the annual production rate of 120 tons of silicon anode materials is viable through NEO's proprietary process.

In addition to the completion of the Basic Engineering Design Data (BEDD), the Configuration and Equipment of major production processes for NEO's one-pot nanocoating technology have been confirmed and finalized. This report has allowed the Company to determine the required Raw Materials and Utility to accommodate for the annual production of 120 tons, and guidelines for health, safety, and environment (HSE) for the facility have been presented within the report.

Dr. J. H. Park, Director and Chief Scientific Advisor of NEO, said, "The semi-commercial plant is of great significance as NEO's management and engineers have successfully designed the plant to enable both low-cost production of the silicon anode materials and flexibility of specification to satisfy the needs of various customers in the supply chain."

NEO will now immediately commence the Engineering EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) stage for the construction of the semi-commercial plant. The Company expects the plant to be completed and commissioned by the end of 2022. The conceptual design of the facility was carried out in full consideration of scaling up to a full commercial plant, and as the design follows a globally recognized International Code, there will be no restriction or limitation for future commercial plants being built elsewhere such as North America and Europe.

"Concerning the site selection of the semi-commercial facility, NEO is currently negotiating with two South Korean provincial governments to find the most suitable and economical option for construction. The Company is considering the benefits provided to foreign-invested companies by the government and the proximity with South Korean battery manufacturers. The initial EPC stage can commence without conflicting with the site selection. We are also in the last stages of establishing the South Korean subsidiary NEO Battery Materials Korea Ltd. ("NBMK"), and we are proceeding with all business and engineering activities without delay. As all developments are secured and completed, we will accordingly announce all updates as soon as possible," added Mr. Spencer Huh.

About NEO Battery Materials Ltd.

NEO Battery Materials Ltd. is a Vancouver-based company focused on battery metals and materials. NEO has a focus on producing silicon anodes materials through its proprietary single-step nanocoating process, which provides improvements in capacity and efficiency over lithium-ion batteries using graphite in their anode materials. The Company intends to become a silicon anode active materials supplier to the electric vehicle industry. For more information, please visit the Company's website at: https://www.neobatterymaterials.com/.

On behalf of the Board of Directors

Spencer Huh

President and CEO

604-697-2408

shuh@neobatterymaterials.com

This news release includes certain forward-looking statements as well as management's objectives, strategies, beliefs and intentions. Forward looking statements are frequently identified by such words as "may", "will", "plan", "expect", "anticipate", "estimate", "intend" and similar words referring to future events and results. Forward-looking statements are based on the current opinions and expectations of management. All forward-looking information is inherently uncertain and subject to a variety of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development, fluctuating commodity prices, the effectiveness and feasibility of technologies which have not yet been tested or proven on a commercial scale, competitive risks and the availability of financing, as described in more detail in our recent securities filings available at www.sedar.com. Actual events or results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements and we caution against placing undue reliance thereon. We assume no obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements except as required by applicable law.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100846
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - SoLVBL Solutions Inc. (CSE: SOLV) ("SoLVBL" or the "Company"), a Canadian cybersecurity company, is pleased to announce that it has engaged the Institutional Sales & Trading team (the "ISTT") of Research Capital Corporation ("Research Capital") to act as a trading advisor to the Company.

Under the service agreement with Research Capital, the ISTT will:

a) Execute a trading liquidity program for SoLVBL to increase its visibility, improve liquidity and provide market analysis with monthly performance reports;

b) Allow access to Research Capital's research platform, providing topical industry reports and sector-wide deal perspective on the Canadian capital markets on a monthly basis;

c) Communicate feedback to the Company from existing and potential investors which will allow the Company to understand the key highlights and risks from an investor's perspective;

d) Trade shares of the Company on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "Exchange") for the purposes of maintaining an orderly market and improving the liquidity of the Company's shares; and

e) Provide such other trading related advice to the Company as is mutually agreed to.

SoLVBL has agreed to retain Research Capital as its Canadian trading advisor for a term of six (6) months ending April 26, 2022, and the arrangement may be extended by mutual agreement.

"We are very excited to be working with the Research Capital team to extend our reach in the Canadian public marketplace," said Raymond Pomroy, CEO of SoLVBL. "We believe that this relationship will create additional value for the Company and our stakeholders."

As part of the compensation for its services, Research Capital will receive a monthly fee of $6,500 for its trading advisory services for a minimum of 6 months. The service agreement can be extended by mutual agreement.

The trading advisory agreement is subject to the rules of the Exchange and remains subject to applicable regulatory approvals.

SoLVBL Solutions Inc.

SoLVBL is an innovative cybersecurity company. SoLVBL Inc. takes a different approach to cybersecurity with its proprietary Q by SoLVBL protocol that quickly and cost-effectively establishes the authenticity of digital records at very high speed. We don't believe that any system is 'un-hackable', no matter how secure it appears to be, and if a system can be hacked, the data within that system is subject to manipulation. Bad data leads to bad decisions. Our Mission: 'To empower better, faster decisions by developing a universal standard for establishing the accuracy of digital records with an application which is easy to adopt, cheap to use, offers cryptographic assurances, and will not bottleneck systems.' The Company is currently pursuing the use of Q by SoLVBL in the following verticals: NG-911 (Next Generation 911); data used in the financial sector; medical data 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.

Not for Distribution to U.S. News Wire Services or for Dissemination in the U.S.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100863
Escalent EVForward segmentation shows high degree of interest, low likelihood of adoption among car shoppers in five most populous European countries

More than four in five (81%) new-car buyers in Europe are open to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). However, just 12% of shoppers expect to purchase a BEV as their next car-a clear indicator that automakers have significant gaps to close to increase BEV adoption rates. The complex interactions of attitudes, values, and household and charging circumstances in Europe dictate that those gaps are diverse in nature, ranging from product offerings to education and support.

Those are the findings of EVForward, the largest, most comprehensive study of the next generation of buyers of electric vehicles (EVs)-including BEVs and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles-in the United States and Europe. The dedicated platform was developed in 2019 by Escalent, a top human behavior and analytics advisory firm with extensive experience counseling the world's largest automotive companies.

Using the study's findings, the EVForward team developed six unique EV buyer personas. Escalent evaluated each group's attitudes, living circumstances, vehicle ownership and usage characteristics to position these personas on a spectrum of EV adoption likelihood. While some hurdles to adoption are common across all personas, other gaps are more specific to an individual group.

"Most new car buyers across the five largest European markets will engage with the idea of electric vehicles, but EV adoption rates have remained below 15% for the first half of 2021 and our research shows there is no single change that will dramatically improve near-term adoption," said Mike Dovorany, Automotive Mobility vice president at Escalent and head of EVForward. "Critically, automakers must recognize the spectrum of barriers that exist for different potential EV buyers-many of which extend beyond the vehicle itself. For example, perceived ease of home charging correlates strongly with EV intention."

The study offers a snapshot of key sentiments regarding EVs, demonstrating the main issues automakers must address to begin closing the interest-adoption gap:

Driving range, long-term battery life/replacement cost concerns and charging speed top the list of barriers to adoption among all EV shoppers, whereas the difference in price of a new EV compared with a traditional, petrol- or diesel-powered vehicle does not fall within the top five.

Only 15% of shoppers plan to use public charging exclusively for their EV, while the remaining 85% see a heavy role for home charging.

Nearly half of all consumers are unaware of any public charging points along their normal driving routes.

Tesla does not hold the same brand opinion advantage in Europe as it does in the United States, with Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen each falling very closely behind and showing the potential to overtake the upstart automaker.

"EVForward illustrates that strategies to drive BEV adoption cannot rely on a template based on current BEV owners," said Mark Carpenter, joint managing director of Escalent's office in Surrey, UK. "The small minority of early adopters are in so many ways very different from the majority that now make up the target market for BEVs. It is also clear from our findings that a one-size-fits-all strategy within or across countries will not deliver the required adoption levels, as Europe presents a diverse and complex set of challenges."

To learn more, join Mike Dovorany and Mark Carpenter for a webinar titled "EVForward: Meet the Next Generation of EV Buyers in Europe" on Wednesday, November 10 from 10:00 am to 10:45 am ET (4:00 pm to 4:45 pm CET). The hosts will offer a closer look at likely EV shoppers, including how they differ from early adopters, what country-specific factors come into play and which buyers are 15.5 times more likely to seriously consider an EV as their next vehicle. To register, visit the Escalent website today.

About EVForward

The EVForward Europe study was conducted across five European countries: United Kingdom (n=1,926), Germany (n=1,947), France (n=1,667), Italy (n=1,866) and Spain (n=1,846). It was a market-representative sample of 9,252 respondents and included a survey that fielded between April 23 and June 7, 2021. These respondents are aged 18 to 80 with a primary vehicle model 2015 or newer and are planning to purchase a new vehicle within the next five years. Data were weighted by age and gender to match the demographics of the new-vehicle buyer population and by vehicle segment to match current vehicle sales. The sample for this research comes from an opt-in, online panel. As such, any reported margins of error or significance tests are estimated and rely on the same statistical assumptions as data collected from a random probability sample. Escalent will supply the exact wording of any survey question upon request.

About Escalent

Escalent is a top human behavior and analytics advisory firm specializing in industries facing disruption and business transformation. As catalysts of progress for more than 40 years, we transform data and insight into a profound understanding of what drives human beings. And we help businesses turn those drivers into actions that build brands, enhance customer experiences and inspire product innovation. Visit escalent.co to see how we are helping shape the brands that are reshaping the world.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005823/en/

Contacts:

Jordan Walker

248.258.2333

jwalker@identitypr.com
HOUSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Shell Retail and Convenience Operations LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell Oil Products US (Shell), has signed an agreement to acquire 248 company-owned fuel and convenience retail sites from the Landmark group of companies (Landmark), whose convenience stores operate in Texas under the Timewise brand. The agreement also includes supply agreements with an additional 117 independently operated fuel and convenience sites.

This acquisition enables Shell to continue its existing, trusted premium product offerings. As one of the largest fuels and convenience retail markets globally, growing in the U.S. gives Shell the opportunity to build on its successful brand presence and leverage the strength of its ongoing business relationships.

"Today's announcement increases our presence in a core market and shows our growth strategy in action," said Huibert Vigeveno, Shell's Downstream Director. "It brings us closer to more customers and strengthens our ability to meet their rapidly changing needs. The deal also allows us to work hand-in-hand with customers to help shape demand for low-carbon energy products and services while profitably decarbonizing alongside them."

By enhancing Shell's presence in the U.S., this acquisition advances Shell's Powering Progress strategy in three ways: by growing its retail footprint in one of its core markets, by providing opportunities to offer customers expanded fuelling options (including electric vehicle charging, hydrogen, biofuels and lower-carbon premium fuels) and by allowing for the growth of non-fuel sales through an enhanced convenience offering.

Subject to regulatory clearance and the satisfaction of closing conditions, the deal is expected to be completed by year end.

Notes to editors

The agreement covers the purchase of:

The remaining 50% share in Texas Petroleum Group, LLC (TPG), previously a 50/50 joint venture between Equilon Enterprises LLC (d/b/a Shell Oil Products US) and Landmark Industries Holdings, LTD. TPG includes 170 company owned fuel and convenience sites and supply agreements for 63 independently operated fuel and convenience sites; and



Landmark's retail gas station network (including gas stations as well as its dealer supply agreements), as acquired from Landmark Industries, LLC, Landmark Industries Energy, LLC, and Landmark Petroleum, LLC which includes 78 company owned fuel and convenience sites and supply agreements for 54 independently operated fuel and convenience sites.

Subject to regulatory clearance and the satisfaction of closing conditions, TPG will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell Retail and Convenience Operations LLC, within our Downstream Mobility business.

This acquisition falls within the 2021 RDS cash capex budget of below $22 bln as disclosed at Shell Strategy Day on February 11, 2021 .

as disclosed at Shell Strategy Day on . More than 2,000 Landmark team members become the foundation to enable Shell to grow its company-owned network in the U.S.

Shell remains committed to collaborating with wholesalers and dealers to serve customers, drive business value, and thrive through the energy transition. Shell will continue to support and grow with our wholesalers, dealers, and JV partners who own and operate more than 13,000 Shell-branded sites across the U.S.

By 2025, globally we expect to service 40 million customers daily at our retail service stations, have 55,000 Shell-branded retail service stations and 15,000 convenience stores.

On February 11, 2021 , Shell set forth its Powering Progress strategy, including details of how it will achieve its target to be a net-zero emissions energy business by 2050, in step with society.

For more details on Shell's Powering Progress strategy, please visit:

www.shell.com/poweringprogress

Cautionary note

The companies in which Royal Dutch Shell plc directly and indirectly owns investments are separate legal entities. In this press release "Shell", "Shell Group" and "Group" are sometimes used for convenience where references are made to Royal Dutch Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general. Likewise, the words "we", "us" and "our" are also used to refer to Royal Dutch Shell plc and its subsidiaries in general or to those who work for them. These terms are also used where no useful purpose is served by identifying the particular entity or entities. 'Subsidiaries', "Shell subsidiaries" and "Shell companies" as used in this press release refer to entities over which Royal Dutch Shell plc either directly or indirectly has control. Entities and unincorporated arrangements over which Shell has joint control are generally referred to as "joint ventures" and "joint operations", respectively. Entities over which Shell has significant influence but neither control nor joint control are referred to as "associates". The term "Shell interest" is used for convenience to indicate the direct and/or indirect ownership interest held by Shell in an entity or unincorporated joint arrangement, after exclusion of all third-party interest.

Shell's operating plan, outlook and budgets are forecasted for a ten-year period and are updated every year. They reflect the current economic environment and what we can reasonably expect to see over the next ten years. Accordingly, Shell's operating plans, outlooks, budgets and pricing assumptions do not reflect our net-zero emissions target. In the future, as society moves towards net-zero emissions, we expect Shell's operating plans, outlooks, budgets and pricing assumptions to reflect this movement.

This press release contains forward-looking statements (within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995) concerning the financial condition, results of operations and businesses of Royal Dutch Shell. All statements other than statements of historical fact are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements of future expectations that are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Forward-looking statements include, among other things, statements concerning the potential exposure of Royal Dutch Shell to market risks and statements expressing management's expectations, beliefs, estimates, forecasts, projections and assumptions. These forward-looking statements are identified by their use of terms and phrases such as "aim", "ambition", 'anticipate', 'believe', 'could', 'estimate', 'expect', 'goals', 'intend', 'may', 'objectives', 'outlook', 'plan', 'probably', 'project', 'risks', "schedule", 'seek', 'should', 'target', 'will' and similar terms and phrases. There are a number of factors that could affect the future operations of Royal Dutch Shell and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements included in this press release, including (without limitation): (a) price fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas; (b) changes in demand for Shell's products; (c) currency fluctuations; (d) drilling and production results; (e) reserves estimates; (f) loss of market share and industry competition; (g) environmental and physical risks; (h) risks associated with the identification of suitable potential acquisition properties and targets, and successful negotiation and completion of such transactions; (i) the risk of doing business in developing countries and countries subject to international sanctions; (j) legislative, fiscal and regulatory developments including regulatory measures addressing climate change; (k) economic and financial market conditions in various countries and regions; (l) political risks, including the risks of expropriation and renegotiation of the terms of contracts with governmental entities, delays or advancements in the approval of projects and delays in the reimbursement for shared costs; (m) risks associated with the impact of pandemics, such as the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak; and (n) changes in trading conditions. No assurance is provided that future dividend payments will match or exceed previous dividend payments. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements contained or referred to in this section. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Additional risk factors that may affect future results are contained in Royal Dutch Shell's Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2020 (available at www.shell.com/investor and www.sec.gov). These risk factors also expressly qualify all forward-looking statements contained in this press release and should be considered by the reader. Each forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of this press release, October 26, 2021. Neither Royal Dutch Shell plc nor any of its subsidiaries undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement as a result of new information, future events or other information. In light of these risks, results could differ materially from those stated, implied or inferred from the forward-looking statements contained in this press release.

We may have used certain terms, such as resources, in this press release that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) strictly prohibits us from including in our filings with the SEC. Investors are urged to consider closely the disclosure in our Form 20-F, File No 1-32575, available on the SEC website www.sec.gov.

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BANGALORE, India, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Security Analytics Market By Type - Web Security Analytics, Network Security Analytics, Endpoint Security Analytics, Application Security Analytics, Others, By Application - Government & Defense, BFSI, Consumer Goods & Retail, IT & Telecom, Healthcare, Energy & Utilities, Manufacturing, Education, Transportation. Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021 - 2026. It is published in Valuates Reports under the Computers & Electronics Category.

The global Security Analytics market size is projected to reach USD 12130 million by 2026, from USD 4326 million in 2019, at a CAGR of 15.4% during 2021-2026.

Major factors driving the growth of the security analytics market are

The security analytics market is predicted to rise due to factors such as demand for pattern discovery, prioritizing network-based risks with actionable intelligence to avoid data losses, and increased attention on regulatory compliance.

Furthermore, the security analytics market is being driven by rising cyber threats such as advanced targeted assaults (ATA) and advanced persistent threats (APT). APTs or ATAs frequently go unnoticed and persist on enterprise networks for long periods of time, causing significant harm to network infrastructure. Implementing security analytics aids in the detection and remediation of such threats.

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SECURITY ANALYTICS MARKET TRENDS ANALYSIS

From rule-based detection to data science methodologies like Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence, security analytics solutions have evolved (AI). Security teams must integrate security analytics with the quantity of machine-generated data seen in most enterprise contexts to effectively manage threats. Network traffic analysis, endpoint detection, SIEM, and User Behavior Analytics (UBA) are some of the tools that collect this information and disclose who is doing what in the IT environment, when and how they are doing it. These capabilities offered by security analytics solutions are expected to drive the growth of the security analytics market.

Actionable security intelligence can greatly assist the IT organization in managing and responding to security incidents coming from the most recent threats. This attracts the attention of C-level executives, and it will become a critical component of overall risk management priorities for organizations seeking to protect themselves from harmful incidents and public disclosure of security incidents that could harm not only the organization's reputation and competitive positioning but also its bottom line. As a result, the security analytics market is predicted to grow due to increased adoption by various organizations.

Banking and financial service providers are increasingly using cloud-based technology to provide shared banking services to third-party networks, vendors, and clients, exposing them to a variety of security concerns and data breaches. As a result of exposure to cyber risks from a variety of applications and the need to manage security audits effectively in real-time, banking and financial institutions are modernizing their security architecture with analytics-driven security solutions. As a result, growing adoption from the BFSI industry is projected to boost security analytics market expansion even further.

The COVID-19 epidemic has inspired businesses to embrace remote working environments and regulations that allow employees to work from home. The use of third-party networks, digital platforms, and personal computing devices has increased as a result of these conventional security procedures. Cyberattacks and complex malware become more likely when such network connectivity methods are used. This is expected to further augment the security analytics market growth.

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SECURITY ANALYTICS MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS

North America is expected to be the most lucrative segment during the forecast period. This is due to the fact that the developed economies of the United States and Canada, have emphasized securing client data.

Based on type, the network security analytics segment is expected to be the most lucrative segment. The segment is being driven by rising demand for behavioral-based security analytics to monitor network telemetry and firewall logs and comply with organizational standards. Furthermore, the increased risk of malware that remains undetected in network layers and encrypted network traffics is pressuring businesses to implement solutions.

Based on application, the BFSI segment is expected to be the most lucrative. Phishing attempts and frauds in third-party payment interfaces are on the rise, as are the hazards associated with using mobile banking apps, and regulatory requirements are becoming more stringent.

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Security Analytics Market By Type

Web Security Analytics

Network Security Analytics

Endpoint Security Analytics

Application Security Analytics

Others

Security Analytics Market By Application

Government & Defense

BFSI

Consumer Goods & Retail

IT & Telecom

Healthcare

Energy & Utilities

Manufacturing

Education

Transportation

Security Analytics Market By Region

North America

United States



Canada

Europe

Germany



France



U.K.



Italy



Russia



Nordic



Rest of Europe

Asia-Pacific

China



Japan



South Korea



Southeast Asia



India



Australia



Rest of Asia-Pacific

Latin America

Mexico



Brazil

Middle East & Africa

& Turkey



Saudi Arabia



UAE



Rest of Middle East & Africa

Security Analytics Market By Company

Cisco

IBM

HPE

Dell EMC

Fireeye

NETSCOUT Arbor

LogRhythm

Alert Logic

Symantec

AlienVault

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PALO ALTO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Bitcoin Latinum (LTNM), the next generation, insured, asset-backed cryptocurrency, has officially listed on the DigiFinex exchange, opening over 200% in its first hour of trading. Bitcoin Latinum congratulates DigiFinex on a successful launch, and everyone who has supported the project.

Monsoon Blockchain, Bitcoin Latinum's lead developer, has announced plans for Bitcoin Latinum to officially list on seven top-tier public exchanges, under the ticker LTNM. In addition to DigiFinex, the exchanges are: HitBTC (the fifth largest exchange by volume at $4 billion), FMFW (formerly Bitcoin.com and operating with $3.3 billion in daily trading volume), Changelly ($2.71 billion in daily volume), Changelly Pro, Bitmart ($1.6 billion in daily volume), and XT.com by the end of 2021.

Headquartered in Singapore, DigiFinex boasts over 4 million users across the globe, and can be accessed by users in 150 countries. With daily trading volume around $1 billion, DigiFinex is one of the top rated global cryptocurrency exchanges that offers spot, leverage, perpetual trading, and fiat to crypto trading. In addition, DigiFinex offers unparalleled 24/7 customer service for its user base. For more information about DigiFinex, please visit https://www.digifinex.com/

Bitcoin Latinum was built as an open-architecture cryptocurrency technology, capable of handling large transaction volume, cybersecurity, and digital asset management. Based on the Bitcoin ecosystem, Bitcoin Latinum was developed by Monsoon Blockchain Corporation on behalf of the Bitcoin Latinum Foundation. LTNM is a greener, faster, and more secure version of Bitcoin, and is poised to revolutionize digital transactions.

Unlike other crypto assets, LTNM is insured, and backed by real-world and digital assets. Its asset backing is held in a fund model, so that base asset value increases over time. It accelerates this asset-backed funds growth by depositing 80% of the transaction fee back into the asset fund that backs the currency. Thus, the more Bitcoin Latinum is adopted, the faster its asset funds grow, creating a self-inflating currency. The listing on DigiFinex highlights Bitcoin Latinum Foundation's commitment to supporting the growth of a sustainable crypto ecosystem.

Bitcoin Latinum was developed with a highly scalable network that will initially support up to 10,000 transactions per second and millions of transactions per day to facilitate retail transactions. With its Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus method, Bitcoin Latinum ensures the network facilitates more transactions per minute at lower transaction fees. Utilizing an efficient consensus mechanism, Bitcoin Latinum provides a much better on-chain payment network compared to Bitcoin, with an average transaction confirmation in 3-5 seconds.

LTNM is one of the greenest cryptocurrencies in existence, and recently joined the Crypto Climate Accord. Utilizing its advanced Proof of Stake (PoS) mechanism, LTNM holders will earn rewards for holding their coins as collateral to stake on the Bitcoin Latinum network. This leads to less electricity consumption. LTNM reduces the energy consumption to only 0.00015 kWh per transaction.

For more information about Bitcoin Latinum, please visit https://bitcoinlatinum.com

FOR EDUCATIONAL AND INFORMATION PURPOSES ONLY; NOT INVESTMENT ADVICE. Any Bitcoin Latinum offered is for educational and informational purposes only and should NOT be construed as a securities-related offer or solicitation or be relied upon as personalized investment advice. Bitcoin Latinum strongly recommends you consult a licensed or registered professional before making any investment decision.

Contact:

Bitcoin Latinum

Kai.Okada@BitcoinLatinum.com

https://bitcoinlatinum.com/

SOURCE: Bitcoin Latinum

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669687/Bitcoin-Latinum-LTNM-Launches-Trading-on-DigiFinex-Up-Over-200
OTTAWA, ON / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Autocorp.ai , an automotive fintech company specializing in virtual retail technologies, is proud to announce the inclusion of Cox Automotive Canada's Kelley Blue Book Trade-In Values in Autocorp's newly launched used vehicle trade-in tool called AVA Trade to improve the car buying journey for customers and dealerships across Canada.

AVA Trade is different from other trade-in tools in Canada because our dealer partners are seeing an immediate increase with double-digit trade-in volumes in under 30 days of activation. We have empowered our current partners with a solution for the current inventory shortages by engaging their customers with a simple, yet effective and real-time valuation tool. Consumers have trusted information on their trade-in value while dealers have access to essential details to advance the sales process. AVA Trade when paired with Autocorp's AVA Credit, creates a superior customer experience that delivers transparency while satisfying the consumer's online needs.

"AVA Trade is featuring Kelley Blue Book Valuations which have long been trusted in the industry and uses the proven methodology Kelley Blue Book is known for," said Brian Murphy, Managing Director, Kelley Blue Book and Data Solutions, Cox Automotive Canada. "Our experts at Kelley Blue Book prescribe market reflective values based on detailed analysis of Canadian market data, including actual transactions, and then adjust for local market conditions and seasonal trends."

"Trade & Credit really seems to be the winning combination, being two of the most top-of-mind questions online car shoppers have," said Andrew Lemoine, CEO of Autocorp.ai. "The engagement our dealer partners are experiencing with AVA Trade is excellent, and the known & trusted brand of Kelley Blue Book is playing a huge role in that customer experience."

AVA Trade is part of Autocorp's AVA Suite of products, but dealers also have the option to subscribe to AVA Trade as a stand-alone solution as well.

Kole Hicks, the Executive Vice President of Autocorp, shared that "Autocorp's innovation in the industry is reinventing how car buying occurs by putting consumers at the center of the experience and providing dealers with real-time information. It's time to put an end to hollow forms and provide both consumers & dealers with real relevant information, in real-time."

About Autocorp.ai:

Autocorp is a fintech company specializing in solutions for the automotive industry. We combine our expertise with world-leading technologies to bring consumers and dealerships a suite of digital retailing products primarily focused on credit and financial services. We have a proven track record of supporting customers and dealerships, designing solutions that scale and building innovative products that address the industry's needs. As experts in the automotive technology space, we deliver innovative solutions that support customers during the buying process, increase efficiency for dealerships, and create incredible experiences for both parties. Everything we do focuses on creating the best possible buying experience so that dealerships can scale and consumers get the most enjoyment from their purchase.

About Cox Automotive Canada

Cox Automotive is transforming the way the world buys, sells, owns and uses cars with industry-leading digital marketing, software, financial, wholesale and e-commerce solutions for consumers, dealers, manufacturers and the overall automotive ecosystem worldwide. In Canada, the Cox Automotive family includes Clutch, Dealertrack, Dealer.com, HomeNet, Kelley Blue Book, Manheim, Modix, NextGear Capital, Ready Logistics, RMS Automotive, vAuto, VinSolutions and Xtime, along with a host of other brands in other countries. The global company has 34,000 team members in more than 220 locations and is a partner to more than 50,000 auto dealers, as well as most major automobile manufacturers. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of 120-year-old Cox Enterprises, Inc., and serving the automotive industry since 1926, which has revenues exceeding $20 billion and approximately 55,000 employees. Cox Enterprises' other major operating subsidiaries include Cox Communications and Cox Media Group. For more information about Cox Automotive Canada, visit coxautoinc.ca.

Media Contacts:

Kole Hicks,

Executive Vice President, Autocorp.ai

877-255-8627

kole@autocorp.ca

Ken Chiu

Public Relations and Media Manager

Cox Automotive Canada

Ken.Chiu@coxautoinc.com

416-435-2872

SOURCE: Autocorp Technologies

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669285/Autocorpai-Launches-AVA-Trade-Tool-With-Values-From-Kelley-Blue-Book-Canada
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Amagi , a global leader in cloud-based SaaS technology for broadcast and connected TV, today announced its partnership with Law&Crime - a premier linear and OTT channel - for distributing their content to the newly launched Free Ad-Supported Streaming (FAST) TV platform, TCL, in the United States.

Law&Crime features multiple trials daily along with expert legal analysis and commentary. The channel is gearing up for gavel-to-gavel coverage of the highly anticipated trial in the death of Ahmaud Arbery, the unarmed black jogger in Georgia which was caught on tape. An expanding roster of original programs includes the weekly series "Coptales" with Sgt. Sean "Sticks" Larkin and "Brian Ross Investigates" hosted by former ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent, Brian Ross.

Amagi offers a comprehensive channel creation, distribution, and monetization solution. Using Amagi CONTENT PLUS, a non-exclusive, revenue share-based distribution model encompassing the channel playout solution Amagi CLOUDPORT, and ad insertion solution, Amagi THUNDERSTORM, Law&Crime is distributing and monetizing their linear content on TCL. The Roku Channel and Peacock are among the other FAST platforms that now host Law&Crime content, powered by Amagi's cloud-led technologies. Amagi has deep technical integrations with 50+ FAST platforms around the world. Several top tier content brands have leveraged its distribution network to enhance their reach among the millennial and Gen Z audience.

"Amagi's technology has given us access to millions of viewers around the world", said Alex Kopacz, Head of Content Distribution & Licensing, Law&Crime. "Their robust and accurate ad insertion solution has helped us scale our ad revenues, while offering unintrusive, tailored ad recommendations to our viewers. Amagi is truly the one-stop shop for any content creator looking to amplify their presence across FAST platforms."

"There is a lot of demand among new-age viewers for niche content of the kind that Law & Crime provides," said Srinivasan KA, Co-founder Amagi. "We're excited to have enabled their distribution to more devices and screens around the world, giving Law&Crime the reach that they rightfully deserve. And Amagi, in turn, gets to count Law&Crime among our list of niche content partners."

Amagi provides a complete suite of solutions for content creation, distribution, and monetization. The company also has a state-of-the-art cloud broadcast operations center that can support 1000+ live linear channels. Amagi clients include USA Today, ABS-CBN, A+E Networks UK, beIN Sports, CuriosityStream, Discovery Networks, Fox Networks, Fremantle, NBCUniversal, Tastemade, Tegna, Vice Media, and Warner Media, among others.

For more information about Amagi and its streaming TV solutions, visit www.amagi.com.

About Law & Crime

From the high-profile cases to the most compelling local trials, Law&Crime is the leading network offering daily trial coverage and expert legal commentary and analysis. Created by TV's top legal commentator and attorney, Dan Abrams, and backed by A+E Networks, Law&Crime is dedicated to exploring the always intriguing world of the law while also offering original true crime stories and legal programs to a broad, multi-platform audience. Law&Crime is available on almost every prominent OTT service including YouTube TV, Peacock, fuboTV, Sling, Philo, The Roku Channel, Xfinity, XUMO and TV Plus as well as on basic cable packages in most states in the country and across the Caribbean.

Law & Crime Contact

Jack Engoron

Affiliate Marketing Manager

Email: jackengoron@lawandcrime.com

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.

Amagi Contact

Sanjay Kirimanjeshwar

Head of Global Marketing

Email: sanjay@amagi.com

BOCA Communications

Email: amagi@bocacommunications.com
MINSK, Belarus, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As the global economy continues its steady path to recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, markets around the world witnessed enhanced financial activity in Q3 of 2021. Subsequently, world-renowned online forex company Inceptial has announced it is expanding its outreach and focusing on the Far East. Among other actions taken by the company is the facilitation of all its services and infrastructure to Chinese and Japanese, as well as the adaptation of its support staff to East Asia's financial activity hours.

"We are very excited about this step we're taking," commented Inceptial's spokesperson. "We've been working on suiting ourselves to our Asian traders' needs for several months now, leaving no stone unturned in our efforts to provide nothing but the most optimal services to our valued clients. We are fully aware of the needs, customs, aspirations and limitations of the different markets of Asia, after careful research. We look forward to sharing our success with our new Asian partners on this journey."

A global brand with a local touch

Across East Asia, national and regional markets have been attracting foreign investments for the better part of 2021, mainly thanks to these nations' success in their battles against COVID-19. China, specifically, has been at the forefront of the region's recuperation, a strategy that has brought several benefits to traders from across the country.

"At Inceptial we set out on this mission with a clear goal: to put our Chinese users at the center of our strategy as a company," added the spokesperson. "This is part of our vision, from the day of our establishment, that our growth as a business must stem from our customers' success and ability to flourish as skilled traders."

About Inceptial
PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Hiru Corp. (the "Company" or "HIRU" - OTC Pink Sheets:HIRU) - HIRU would like to announce that we are in full production on our recently completed fully automated bottling line. Additionally, the Company has begun the development of an additional automated bottling line which shall be completed and into production by Thanksgiving.

As stated in a previous press release, the new facility was built to accommodate several large purchase orders from Alkaline88 and to serve as a central distribution point of finished product storage for our customers. The new facility, which is now completed in production, is 12,500 square feet and houses our new automated bottling line. This new facility increased the total square feet we have under production to 109,000 square feet (e.g., Initial Facility - 11,500 Square Feet and the new Third Facility is 85,000 square feet). The new line, to be completed by Thanksgiving, is being built to accommodate an expected future increase in purchase orders in terms of both size and frequency.

Kathryn Gavin (HIRU Sole Officer and Director) stated... "This new line is a change in business strategy. It is being built ahead of time to meet the needs of our clients upon receipt of future large purchase orders without having to spend time building the necessary lines on an as needed basis as they are received. By doing so, the Company will: (1) not miss out on months of potential top line revenue; (2) allow clients to better plan their respective sales growth plans; and (3) instill trust and loyalty in our larger clients thereby potentially expanding with them as they push to expand their product sales in a growing industry.

In passing, the Company's next required quarterly filing is for 3rd Quarter ended September 30, 2021, which is not due until on or before November 14, 2021, will be filed well before this posted deadline. We expect to receive the 3rd quarter ended financial statements and notes thereto within five (5) business days and will then immediately post them for public dissemination on our landing page at www.OtcMarkets.com.

Disclaimer Regarding Forward Looking Statements

Certain statements that we make may constitute "forward-looking statements" under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include information concerning future?strategic objectives, business prospects, anticipated savings, financial results (including expenses, earnings, liquidity, cash flow and capital expenditures), industry or market conditions, demand for and pricing of our products, acquisitions and divestitures, anticipated results of litigation and regulatory developments or general economic conditions.? In addition, words such as "believes," "expects," "anticipates," "intends," "plans," "estimates," "projects," "forecasts," and future or conditional verbs such as "will," "may," "could," "should," and "would," as well as any other statement that necessarily depends on future events, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees, and they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. ?Although we make such statements based on assumptions that we believe to be reasonable, there can be no assurance that actual results will not differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements.? We caution investors not to rely unduly on any forward-looking?statements.

ABOUT US

Hiru Corp. is a Georgia corporation, is a public quoted Pink Sheet issuer under the ticker symbol "HIRU" (the "Company"). The Company reports as an alternative reporting issuer with OTC Markets Group, Inc. and is current in its mandatory required filings (e.g., Pink Sheet Current). Currently, the Company has one wholly owned, operational subsidiary, AZ Custom Bottled Water, Inc., a Nevada corporation ("AZ Water"), which owns and operates a commercial water bottling and labeling facility based in Phoenix, Arizona. AZ Water operates a B2C website at https://azcustombottledwater.com/.

CONTACT:

3331 North 35th Avenue

Phoenix, Arizona 95107

Web Site: www.waterandiceshop.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/hirucorp

Phone: 928-408-4486

Email: info@waterandiceshop.com

Contact: Kathryn Gavin, CEO

SOURCE: Hiru Corporation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669709/Hiru-Corp--General-Update
Reno, Nevada--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Nevada Canyon Gold Corp. (OTC Pink: NGLD) (The "Company" or "Nevada Canyon") is pleased to announce it has signed a non-binding letter of intent (the "LOI") with Target Minerals, Inc (Target) a private Nevada company, to enter into an Option to Purchase Agreement (the "Agreement") to acquire 100% interest of Target's 1% production royalty on the Olinghouse Project, located in the Olinghouse Mining District, Washoe County, Nevada.

The Olinghouse Project is located approximately 30 miles east of Reno, Nevada. The property was operated by Alta Gold in the late 1990's and had a Feasibility Study completed in 1997. The mine went into production in 1999, however, due to historically low gold prices combined with a substantial debt load, Alta Gold went bankrupt shortly thereafter, in late 2000. The historic geologic resource outlined in the 1997 Alta Gold Feasibility Study was based on over 600 drill holes collared at 100 ft centers. The historic geologic resource contained 695,128 ounces of gold at an average grade of 0.0381 oz/ton gold at an 0.01 oz/ton cut-off. The property has had no modern exploration since the Alta Gold bankruptcy in 2000. The historical mineralized resource is open at depth and along strike, with excellent potential to increase the historical mineralized resources.

Nevada Canyon considers this historical estimate to be reliable and relevant, however it is not treating this historic estimate as current compliant mineral resources.

The Olinghouse Project's current owner is Lake Mountain Mining LLC, (LMM) a private Nevada company. LMM is currently reviewing its financing plans for additional exploration, required permitting, economic studies and various capital expenditures towards a production re-start decision in the near future.

Nevada Canyon can acquire 100% of a production royalty in the amount of one percent (1%) of the net smelter returns on all minerals and products produced from certain properties comprising the Olinghouse Project from Target as follows:

The term of the Purchase Option shall be for one (1) year, subject to extension if Vendor's conditions to closing are not fully satisfied or otherwise waived by Purchaser. Full consideration of the Agreement consists of the following: (i) an initial cash payment of $200,000.00 USD upon execution of a definitive agreement. (ii) $2,000,000.00 which shall be paid by Purchaser to Vendor in either (a) cash, or (b) common shares in the capital stock of Nevada Canyon subject to certain terms and conditions.

Subject to satisfactory due diligence and certain conditions, within 60 days of the date of the LOI, the parties will negotiate a definitive option to purchase agreement for the proposed transaction which will supersede the terms of the LOI.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Jeffrey A. Cocks"

Jeffrey A. Cocks

President & CEO

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Nevada Canyon Gold Corp.

(TEL)- (888) 909-5548, (FAX)-(888) 909-1033

Email: info@nevadacanyongold.com

Website: www.nevadacanyongold.com

Forward-Looking Statements

The information posted in this release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by use of the words "may," "will," "should," "plans," "expects," "anticipates," "continue," "estimate," "project," "intend," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected or anticipated. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, general economic and business conditions, effects of continued geopolitical unrest and regional conflicts, competition, changes in technology and methods of exploration, delays in completing various engineering and exploration programs, Specifically, forward-looking statements in this news release include statements with respect to the potential mineralization and geological merits of the Company properties and various other factors beyond the Nevada Canyon Gold Corp.'s control. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events except as required by applicable securities legislation. Nevada Canyon Gold Corp. is neither an underwriter as the term is defined in Section 2(a)(11) of the Securities Act of 1933, nor an investment company pursuant to the Investment Company Act of 1940. Nevada Canyon Gold Corp. is not an investment adviser pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Nevada Canyon Gold Corp. is not registered with FINRA or SIPC. Investors are advised to carefully review the reports and documents that Nevada Canyon Gold Corp. files from time to time with the SEC, including its Annual Form 10K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2020, Quarterly and Current Reports.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100868
Fifth Phase II trial of UV1 in cancer, and largest disease category to date



UV1 will be investigated in combination with the standard-of-care pembrolizumab

Expected data read-out by end of 2024





Oslo, 26October2021: Ultimovacs ASA ("Ultimovacs") (OSE ULTI), a clinical stage leader in immune stimulatory vaccines for cancer, announced that the company's universal cancer vaccine, UV1, will be investigated in a new Phase II clinical trial in combination with pembrolizumab in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The first patient is expected to be treated in H1 2022, with data read-out from the trial, LUNGVAC, anticipated by the end of 2024.

Lung cancer is currently one of the most common cancers globally, and by far the biggest cause of cancer deaths in both men and women. NSCLC accounts for approximately 85% of all lung cancers. An estimated 850,000 new cases* of NSCLC are diagnosed each year. Most of these cases are metastatic patients, for whom the 5-year survival rate is around 7%.

"We see this new trial as a significant opportunity for Ultimovacs to make a difference to the lives of thousands of patients with advanced lung cancer." said Carlos de Sousa, CEO of Ultimovacs. "Our extensive Phase II program is aimed at building a substantial evidence base that UV1 in combination with checkpoint inhibitors can stimulate the immune response resulting in enhanced treatment outcomes."

The LUNGVAC trial will be a multi-center, randomized, open-label trial assessing the safety and efficacy of UV1 in combination with pembrolizumab versus pembrolizumab alone in NSCLC patients with advanced or metastatic disease. The trial will treat patients with tumors classified within the adenomcarcinoma or squamous subgroups of NSCLC, where at least half of the tumor cells express the PD-L1 antigen and who have not previously received pembrolizumab treatment. These subgroups represent approximately 1/3 of all advanced and metastatic NSCLC patients. The primary endpoint of the trial will be progression-free survival. Secondary end-points will include response rate and overall survival.

Professor Odd Terje Brustugun will be the principal investigator for the trial, which will be sponsored by Drammen Hospital, a leading oncology research center in Norway. The trial will enroll approximately 138 patients and will be conducted at 8-10 clinical centers in Norway.

"NSCLC remains a major cause of premature death," said Odd Terje Brustugun. "Checkpoint inhibitors like pembrolizumab have changed the treatment landscape for lung cancer in advanced healthcare systems. The LUNGVAC trial will indicate whether the combination of UV1 with pembrolizumab can further improve the prospects for patients."

UV1 is currently being investigated in four other Phase II trials in advanced malignant melanoma, ovarian cancer, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and malignant pleural mesothelioma. In total, the five Phase II trials will enroll more than 650 patients at close to 100 hospitals in around 15 countries. The combination of UV1 and pembrolizumab was recently granted a Fast Track designation by the U.S. FDA in the treatment of advanced malignant melanoma.

*in the US, EU5, Japan, China

==ENDS==

About Ultimovacs

Ultimovacs is developing immune-stimulatory vaccines to treat a broad range of cancers. Ultimovacs' lead universal cancer vaccine candidate UV1 targets human telomerase (hTERT), present in 85-90% of cancers in all stages of tumor growth. By directing the immune system to hTERT antigens, UV1 drives CD4 helper T cells to the tumor to activate an immune system cascade and increase anti-tumor responses. With a broad Phase II program, Ultimovacs aims to clinically demonstrate UV1's impact in multiple cancer types in combination with other immunotherapies. Ultimovacs' second technology approach, based on the proprietary Tetanus-Epitope-Targeting (TET) platform, combines tumor-specific peptides and adjuvant in the same molecule and entered Phase I studies in 2021.

For further information, please see www.ultimovacs.com or contact:

Carlos de Sousa, CEO

Email: carlos.desousa@ultimovacs.com

Phone: +47 908 92507

Hans Vassgard Eid, CFO

Email: hans.eid@ultimovacs.com

Phone: +47 482 48632

Mary-Ann Chang, LifeSci Advisors

Email: mchang@lifesciadvisors.com

Phone: +44 7483 284 853

This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 in the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

This stock exchange announcement was published by Joachim Midttun, Finance Manager at Ultimovacs ASA, on 26October, 2021 at 16:30 CET.
Regulatory News:

Press Release- Paris, 26 October 2021

Pernod Ricard (Paris:RI):

The 22nd Pernod Ricard Foundation Prize was awarded to visual artist Boris Kurdi as part of the group exhibition "Bonaventure (Trafiquer les Mondes)" conceived by Lilou Vidal, guest curator of the 2021 edition of this prestigious event. Kurdi received this award on Friday 22 October during a ceremony held for the first time in the Foundation's new premises located within Pernod Ricard's headquarters in Paris's Saint Lazare district.

Since 1999, the Pernod Ricard Foundation Prize has been promoting the recognition of young artists amongst audiences and the artworld. The Prize is awarded by a jury made up of collectors, previous recipients, and curators of the Foundation's exhibitions. The winner sees one of their works purchased by the Foundation and donated to the Pompidou Centre's Musee National d'Art Moderne, and receives a grant of 15,000 for a personal project abroad.

The Foundation is accessible to all free of charge and operates as a platform supporting artists, with the ambition of raising the profile of the young contemporary scene in France and throughout the world. To achieve this, it makes use of the resources provided by a global Group with 86 subsidiaries. Retaining its human element, it continues to nurture the close relationship it has developed with artists by increasing the opportunities for encounters and interaction. Since opening in 1998, the Foundation has featured more than 1,000 artists, invited by 250 curators as part of 150 exhibitions.

Alexandre Ricard, Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard and President of the Foundation, said "We have come a long way in our support of the emerging art scene in France over the last twenty years. For me, the spirit of this prize is open and audacious. It is the best possible illustration of our core belief, that art is meaningless unless it is shared. My warmest congratulations to Boris Kurdi on this well-deserved award, and indeed to all the selected artists for their remarkable work. Thanks to our longstanding partnership with the Centre Pompidou, I'm am delighted that Boris Kurdi's work will be able to join the museum's remarkable collections. And of course our laureate will also have the opportunity to undertake a personal project abroad, in collaboration with a prestigious institution. Alexandre Ricard President of the Pernod Ricard Foundation"

About Pernod Ricard

Pernod Ricard is the No.2 worldwide producer of wines and spirits with consolidated sales amounting to 8,824 million in FY21. The Group, which owns 16 of the Top 100 Spirits Brands, holds one of the most prestigious and comprehensive portfolios in the industry with over 240 premium brands distributed across more than 160 markets. Pernod Ricard's portfolio includes Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine's, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute, and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Malibu liqueur, Mumm and Perrier-Jouet champagnes, as well Jacob's Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard's strategy focuses on investing in long-term and sustainable growth for all its stakeholders, remaining true to its founding values: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust, and strong sense of ethics. The Group's decentralised organisation empowers its 18,500 employees to be on-the-ground ambassadors of its vision of "Createurs de Convivialite". Pernod Ricard 2030 Sustainability and Responsibility roadmap "Good Times from a Good Place" is integrated into all its activities from grain to glass, and Pernod Ricard is recognised as a UN Global Compact LEAD participant. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN Code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 and Eurostoxx 50 indices.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005896/en/

Contacts:

Pernod Ricard

Emmanuel Vouin Head of External Engagement +33 (0) 1 70 93 16 34

Antonia Scintilla Group Philanthropy Manager +33 (0) 1 70 93 16 32

Claudine Colin Communication

Chiara Di Leva chiara@claudinecolin.com +33 (0) 1 42 72 60 01

Cyril Bruckler cyril@claudinecolin.com
Brisbane, Australia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - PeersCrypto is proud to announce its new cryptocurrency exchange platform and its own token on the BSC, allowing the token holders to trade with zero fees protocol. The presale is scheduled on DXSale on 29th October 15:00 UTC. PeersCrypto has designed a unique peer-to-peer website to enable people to exchange Ether to fiat currency without any third party. It uses a secured escrow system that eliminates any third party or intermediaries. It provides traders the opportunity to trade with whoever they want on their own terms.

PeersCrypto Launches Its Unique Cryptocurrency Peer-to-Peer Escrow Platform Along with Its Own Token

The PeersCrypto P2P marketplace uses end-to-end encryption, which keeps transactions confidential. Unlike the traditional system where you can't do without a third party, a third party would be involved only when there is a dispute. Despite such a situation, the smart contract code acts as a third party.

The Idea Behind PeersCrypto

The main concept of the platform is to eliminate any third-party transaction. It tends to make transactions secure and fast using Blockchain technology. It will ensure that nobody has access to your digital wallet and keep your transaction secret.

Features of the PeersCrypto Platform

The platform offers several features for an encrypted peer-to-peer marketplace for selling and buying cryptocurrency.

Uniquely, PeersCrypto offers a person-to-person payment method with super-fast settlements. Interestingly, each transaction can take less than three minutes to complete. Furthermore, it removes middlemen's needs and allows traders to trade on their own terms. It doesn't matter if it is through any online payment or bank transfer; users can agree on their own terms.

It features a non-custodial encrypted marketplace for buying and selling Ether. In addition, you can also buy and sell other popular coins, including Binance Coin, Dogecoin, Tether, and so on.

How PeersCrypto Operates

PeersCrypto offers a distinct method of escrow service. Unlike the traditional escrow system, the PeersCrypto platform doesn't accept deposits or process withdrawal. Furthermore, it doesn't have any automatic matching algorithm.

Traders need to create an account on the PeersCrypto website before buying or selling any accepted crypto. With the account created, you can open trade to buy, sell and make an exchange on the platform.

Once a person posts an offer on the platform, someone has to respond to the offer to exchange the offer. Both parties communicate through an encrypted platform. Once both parties agree to the terms, the sellers place the fund in the escrow while waiting for the buyer to release payment. Immediately the fund gets to the escrow, a payment countdown begins.

When the seller receives the funds from the buyer, he releases the escrow to the buyer. However, if there is a dispute, the PeersCrypto arbitrator comes to settle the dispute. The arbitrator will request evidence from both parties before deciding the rightful owner of the fund.

Future Plans of PeersCrypto

According to the platform, there are plans to improve the marketplace with more integrations. It tends to support third-party wallets, mobile app, deployment of the website to IPFS, and the use of a Blockchain PKI.

Furthermore, PeersCrypto is launching its own token presale soon. Investors can take advantage of the presale to buy the new coin at a cheaper rate. You can find more about the presale on the website.

Available on: https://dxsale.app/app/v3/defipresale'saleID=1012&chain=BSC

Social Media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/peerscrypto

Telegram: https://t.me/peerscrypto

Media Details

Company Name: Peerscrypto

Contact Name: Peerscrypto

Email: info@peerscrypto.com

Location: Head Office: 498 Ring Road, Brisbane, Australia

Website: https://peerscrypto.com/

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100874
Company will join efforts with other Ukrainian businesses, government institutions and activists to promote Ukraine's IT agenda at world's largest tech event

SoftServe, a leading digital authority and consulting company, will participate in the annual Web Summit 2021 in Lisbon, Portugal, as part of the first-ever Ukraine Pavilion that will present Ukraine's most promising startups and innovations, IT companies, and funds. Web Summit is the largest and the most important annual tech event in the world with topics centered around digital technologies, emerging tech, and venture investments. The Ukraine Pavilion is the result of combined efforts of Ukraine's Ministry of Digital Transformation, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Business Association, and numerous other partners united around promoting Ukraine's rapidly evolving tech ecosystem.

The Ukraine Pavilion will be open during the entire Web Summit 2021 conference at Altice Arena, Fil 1, Booth no. E135. SoftServe will present on stage at the Ukraine Pavilion on November 2 at 9:00. A networking hospitality event will be held on November 3 at 19:00 at Ferroviario restaurant at Rua de Santa Apolonia. To connect with SoftServe's team at Web Summit 2021, please contact Galyna Pivtorak.

SoftServe offers deep expertise across data, AI, machine learning, cloud technology, robotics, and the Internet of Things, and is a premier partner with Google, AWS, Azure, and others. At this year's Web Summit, SoftServe will be showcasing the relevant technologies and solutions that help companies better understand their customers and address their evolving needs and expectations.

The company will also run its Touch My Heart demo, the digital twin of a human heart developed by its in-house R&D team. This augmented-reality touchable hologram enables a live and direct view of a human heart with its elements augmented by computer-generated sensory inputs, including ultrasound, video, and graphics. The hologram was developed for use in various healthcare applications, such as medical training or telemedicine.

"Business leaders need to identify, implement, and integrate innovative new technologies to meet customers' ever-changing expectations," said Volodymyr Semenyshyn, Executive Vice President EMEA and Financial Services at SoftServe. "These technologies will provide the critical foundation to change the way organizations interact with customers, develop new products and services, and drive impactful experiences. And these technologies will be at the center of SoftServe's conversations during Web Summit 2021."

Ukraine is experiencing impressive growth as a global technology player, with more than 5,000 IT companies employing over 200,000 IT specialists. Ukraine's IT services export has been growing by 25% annually on average and currently accounts for over 8% of the country's total exports and is projected to generate $10 billion by 2025. SoftServe supports the growth of Ukraine's IT industry with numerous initiatives aimed at nurturing the talent pool, including SoftServe's IT Academy, an educational platform for students and graduates, SoftServe University, a corporate learning hub, and through partnerships with universities and tech schools.

About SoftServe

SoftServe is a digital authority that advises and provides at the cutting-edge of technology. We reveal, transform, accelerate, and optimize the way enterprises and software companies do business. With expertise across healthcare, retail, energy, financial services, and more, we implement end-to-end solutions to deliver the innovation, quality, and speed that our clients' users expect.

SoftServe delivers open innovation, from generating compelling new ideas, to developing and implementing transformational products and services. Our work and client experience are built on a foundation of empathetic, human-focused experience design that ensures continuity from concept to release. We empower enterprises and software companies to (re)identify differentiation, accelerate solution development, and vigorously compete in today's digital economy. No matter where you are in your journey.

Visit our website, blog, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter pages.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005943/en/

Contacts:

SoftServe Media Contacts

Paul Jones

Senior Manager, Analyst and Public Relations

pjone@softserveinc.com

Andrew Kavka

Lead Analyst and Public Relations Specialist

akavk@softserveinc.com
Singapore--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - SKYBIT International is a social enterprise based in Singapore that applies blockchain technology to provide a modern financial bridge between emerging nations in Southeast Asia and the rest of the world. The SKYBIT ecosystem of products and services curates gap-filling opportunities for inclusive growth development for the people, businesses and industries of Southeast Asia. For those eligible for bank accounts, the difficulties of sending money through the traditional banking system, now coupled with the pandemic, has isolated people and businesses in Southeast Asia from the rest of the world, hindering progress and development in the region. SKYBIT is building the foundation for an inclusive and innovative digital industry.

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals would also be addressed indirectly by SKYBIT. One immediately available benefit is facilitating more donations to aid organizations in South East Asia who are all working to address a variety of Sustainable Development Goals. Aid organizations of any size can now receive donations from anyone anywhere in the world instead of just local donors who may not have much money to give. This will allow them to have more resources to help the neediest and collectively make progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

The Earthshot Prize (UK) launched in 2020 by The Royal Foundation and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, would also be addressed. The Royal Foundation addresses pressing environmental and conservation crises by bringing together environmentalists, businesses, global leaders, and NGOs to find solutions. The Earthshot Prize aims to find new solutions that work on every level, have a positive effect on environmental change and improve living standards globally, particularly for communities who are most at risk from climate change. Through SKYBIT developments, they mission towards making a difference.

SKYBIT uses digital assets that flow freely on the Internet regardless of country borders. Easing the flow of monetary value will open up multiple opportunities for Southeast Asian countries, in line with national development plans, United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals and the Earthshot. This will continue the fight started by the Millennium Development Goals against extreme poverty, and add targets relating to inclusive growth and environmental sustainability. All of this will assist to make progress on poverty reduction, disease control, and increased access to schooling and infrastructure in the poorest countries in South East Asia.

SKYBIT's international payment processor and marketplace will allow businesses of any size, across Southeast Asia to earn income by offering goods and services to international customers and easily receive payment in local currency. In particular, people in rural areas who produce ethnic arts and crafts can now target an international market rather than only a relatively limited number of tourists passing by their physical stall. SKYBIT has signed a memorandum of understanding with Frontier Technology Partners to work with Entrepreneurs to assist ethnic minorities to use the SKYBIT platform. Giving people across South East Asia an opportunity to earn a new income stream, helping to alleviate poverty.

SKYBIT has done the groundwork for the upcoming paradigm shift of individual empowerment through freely flowing global value exchange. They have the potential to revolutionize entire industries and even create new ones in South East Asia. This will help to economically strengthen the region and in turn, raise the standard of living for people within these areas.

Next... lookout for SKYBIT NFT which is being launched soon!

For more information please visit the website. www.skybit.asia or join the SKYBIT telegram channel: https://t.me/SKYBITASIA you can also follow them on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SKYBITASIA

Media Contact -

SKYBIT ASIA

daryl@skybit.asia

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100882
RECORD PERFORMANCES AT END-SEPTEMBER

2021 ASSUMPTIONS REVISED UPWARDS

Nine-month sales: 5,570m, +18.2% as reported and +18.8% LFL*

Third-quarter sales: 1,961m, +9.1% as reported and +6.4% LFL

Nine-month Operating Result from Activity (ORfA): 528m, +62.8% vs. 2020

Net debt: 1,951m, -20m vs. 30/09/2020

Full-year 2021 assumptions revised upwards

Reported sales growth expected around 14% (vs. above 10% previously)

ORfA margin should be close to 10%, unchanged vs our communication of end-July, with headwinds (raw materials, components, freight and FX)now estimated at around 300m on the Operating Result from Activity (vs. "more than 250m" at end-July).

Regulatory News:

Statement by T. de La Tour d'Artaise, Chairman and CEO of Groupe SEB (Paris:SK)

"The performance at the end of September is a clear evidence of the strength and the pertinence of our strategic model. Our Consumer business, vigorous over the first nine months, continues to be driven by sustained demand while the rebound of our Professional division, initiated in the second quarter, has been confirmed.

This strong momentum leads us to revise upwards our assumption of reported sales growth for 2021, which we now expect around 14%, and to confirm that the operating margin for the full year 2021 should be close to 10%."

*Like-for-like: at constant exchange rates and scope of consolidation

GENERAL COMMENTS ON GROUP SALES

With the general environment still disrupted by the effects of the COVID-19 crisis and unprecedented supply-chain tensions, Groupe SEB achieved record-high performances for the 9-month period ending September 2021. Our sales came out at 5,570m at end-September, up 18.2% from 2020, and consist of a like-for-like growth of 18.8% (+884m), a currency effect of -1.9% (-87m) and a scope effect of +1.3% (+62m, related to StoreBound). This robust momentum was fueled both by the Consumer and Professional businesses

9-month sales achieved a solid revenue growth of nearly 9% on a reported basis compared to 2019, which stands as a more normal base of comparison than 2020.

The Consumer business reported a c. 20% LFL growth over the first nine months of 2021 vs. 2020 (+13% vs. 2019 on a reported basis). Fueled by all the geographies and products categories, this breaks down as follows:

A highly vigorous first half, with growth of nearly 30%, underpinned by buoyant demand and favorable comparatives;

Continued growth in the third quarter, despite very demanding 2020 comparatives, with sales up 7.2% on a reported basis and 4.4% LFL vs. 2020 and up 14% vs. 2019 on a reported basis.

For the period as a whole, sustained demand for small domestic appliances was reflected in reduced promotional activity, conducive to high-quality sales. While e-commerce has been the main growth driver over the past 18 months, the recovery of physical retail since the second quarter has bolstered business activity in the vast majority of markets.

In the first nine months of the year, the Professional business returned to growth, though admittedly against low comparatives. Growth totaled 8.7% LFL following a vigorous third quarter (+35%), confirming the sharp rebound initiated in the second quarter. Strong momentum was driven both by resuming core business (coffee machines and service) and the roll-out of new deals, particularly in the United Kingdom and in the United States.

DETAIL OF REVENUE BY REGION

Revenue in m 9 months

2020 9 months

2021 Change 2021/2020 Q3 Change 2021/2020 As reported Like-for-like* As reported Like-for-like* EMEA Western Europe Other countries 2,118 1,530 588 2,597 1,843 755 +22.7% +20.5% +28.4% +25.0% +20.3% +37.1% +10.6% +10.2% +11.8% +10.0% +9.8% +10.5% AMERICAS North America South America 584 417 167 773 550 223 +32.3% +32.0% +33.1% +27.5% +21.0% +43.6% +2.3% -2.7% +15.7% -3.5% -9.0% +11.0% ASIA China Other countries 1,582 1,196 386 1,745 1,328 417 +10.3% +11.1% +7.8% +9.9% +9.4% +11.7% +4.4% +7.2% -3.6% -0.2% +0.6% -2.6% TOTAL Consumer 4,284 5,115 +19.4% +19.8% +7.2% +4.4% Professional business 428 456 +6.4% +8.7% +35.4% +34.9% GROUPE SEB 4,712 5,570 +18.2% +18.8% +9.1% +6.4% * Like-for-like: at constant exchange rates and scope Rounded figures in m % calculated in non-rounded figures

COMMENTS ON CONSUMER BUSINESS BY REGION

Revenue in m 9 months

2020 9 months

2021 Change 2021/2020 Q3 Change 2021/2020 As reported Like-for-like* As reported Like-for-like* EMEA Western Europe Other countries 2,118 1,530 588 2,597 1,843 755 +22.7% +20.5% +28.4% +25.0% +20.3% +37.1% +10.6% +10.2% +11.8% +10.0% +9.8% +10.5%

WESTERN EUROPE

The Group achieved record-high performances over the 9-month period. Consistent with the first half of the year, third-quarter sales grew strongly (by around 10%) despite demanding 2020 comparatives. The continued robust e-commerce momentum (online sales specialists, click&mortar, and direct-to-consumer) has been combined with a solid performance of the offline channel. All areas have achieved sales above 2019 levels.

In France, in a buoyant market, the excellent growth achieved at end-September was fueled by core business as well as loyalty programs with some mass retailers. Third quarter has remained well-oriented, with sales substantially higher than in 2019. The dynamic has been driven by flagship categories such as cookware, electrical cooking, and home care.

Substantial growth in Germany was underpinned by the same factors. A tonic core business, bolstered by our flagship products such as Optigrill, oil-less fryers and the WMF ranges, helped by the reopening of our retail network, a major loyalty program in cookware, and the strength of online sales.

In other European markets, the Group achieved strong and broad-based performances in the third quarter thanks to solid growth engines such as cookware and electrical cooking, including WMF products, and home cleaning.

OTHER EMEA COUNTRIES

In other EMEA countries, sales at end September have been up 37% on an organic basis. After an exceptional first half of the year, dynamic remained strong and widespread in the region in the third quarter (+10.5% LFL).

In markets where growth is "normalizing" after the peaks of the last few months, and despite supply-chain disruptions, the Group significantly overperformed, leveraging the main market catalyzers. It continued to make headway in e-commerce, which now accounts for over 40% of the market, reinforcing its overall positions with electro-specialists and pure players, notably regional. At the same time, it continued to roll out its direct-to-consumer sales offering, both offline and online.

While organic growth was temporarily more moderate in Russia and Turkey in the third quarter, all the other countries contributed to the strength of sales, with a special mention this quarter going to Central Europe, Poland, Ukraine, Romania, and Egypt.

In terms of product lines, the main drivers remained vacuum cleaners (versatile, robot), electrical cooking (grills, oil-less deep fryers), cookware (Titanium, Ingenio), and automatic espresso machines. Also of note was WMF's continued development in the region.

Revenue in m 9 months

2020 9 months

2021 Change 2021/2020 Q3 Change 2021/2020 As reported Like-for-like* As reported Like-for-like* AMERICAS North America South America 584 417 167 773 550 223 +32.3% +32.0% +33.1% +27.5% +21.0% +43.6% +2.3% -2.7% +15.7% -3.5% -9.0% +11.0%

NORTH AMERICA

At 550 M, sales at September 30 include the integration of StoreBound as well as negative currency effects. On a reported basis, sales have been strongly up: +32% vs. 2020 and +38% vs. 2019. Organic growth reached 21% for the 9 months.

After an extremely robust first half (+67%, +51% LFL), business activity slowed in the third quarter, owing to:

- more demanding comparatives in the USA as the market had been supported by unrenewed government consumption incentives in 2020

- the temporary closure of our plant in Vietnam which penalized business activity for T-Fal cookware

However, revenue growth in the United States is excellent compared with 2019, with quarterly sales up by 35% and 9-month sales by almost 57%. Performance was driven by two major growth engines: cookware (ongoing strong momentum for All-Clad and Imusa) and electrical cooking, propelled by StoreBound, which posted a very good third quarter despite high 2020 comparatives.

Outside the United States, performances were contrasted. In Canada, our sales continue to suffer from sluggish market demand and ongoing increased selection in listings by some of our customers. Mexico, meanwhile, posted very robust growth both on a 9-month and on a third-quarter basis. Standout product lines included electrical cooking (oil-less fryers) and cookware.

SOUTH AMERICA

In a persistently uncertain economic environment, our sales in South America increased 11% LFL and 15.7% on a reported basis in the third quarter. Sales are now back to 2019 levels. While the region's main currencies (Brazilian real, Colombian and Argentine pesos) stabilized over the summer, the currency impact remained negative over the 9-month period, compared with the previous year.

In Brazil, sales were stable in the third quarter in a complicated environment. This includes price increases implemented in response to unfavorable currency impacts and supply chain tensions. Cookware and electrical cooking (oil-less deep fryers) held up strongly after a fast development since 2020. As for Food preparation, it has been impacted by a difficult 2020 base effect, but sales of the product category grew relative to 2019.

In Colombia, growth pace has remained very positive with strong performance achieved both on a 9-month and on a third-quarter basis. This reflects our continuous commercial improvements as well as our industrial competitiveness. Electrical cooking remains a major driver, underpinned by the roll-out of oil-less deep fryers, and the blenders. Finally, fan sales benefited from recent product launches, particularly the Silence Force range.

Revenue in m 9 months

2020 9 months

2021 Change 2021/2020 Q3 Change 2021/2020 As reported Like-for-like* As reported Like-for-like* ASIA China Other countries 1,582 1,196 386 1,745 1,328 417 +10.3% +11.1% +7.8% +9.9% +9.4% +11.7% +4.4% +7.2% -3.6% -0.2% +0.6% -2.6%

CHINA

At September 30, organic sales growth in China stood at 9.4% following a third-quarter gain of 0.6% LFL compared with 2020 and 7.3% as reported vs 2019. These very satisfactory performances were achieved in a context of slower demand and still weak store footfall.

As such, Supor continued to strengthen its positions in the market, notably by innovating and adapting its product offering. The better trend in sales also stemmed from the retail diversification, notably through Supor's ongoing development of direct-to-consumer online sales, and through enhanced presence on new, fast-growing platforms.

If the increased weight of e-commerce has a negative impact on prices, and hence on sales, Supor's significant progress is materializing in an improvement of the online operating margin, which now exceeds the offline profitability.

In cookware, this strategy of accelerating the transition to DTC online sales has slightly penalized third-quarter sell-in.

In contrast, in small electrical appliances, the transformation of the model is way more advanced. Third quarter revenue was up, driven by electrical cooking ("traditional" products refreshed by innovation, emerging categories such as oil-less deep fryers, etc.), beverage preparation, and home cleaning, boosted by the launch of new vacuum cleaners.

OTHER ASIAN COUNTRIES

At September 30, sales growth in other Asian countries has been solid, at +11.7%, fueled by all the countries in the region. Third-quarter sales have been slightly down yoy due to a higher 2020 comparison base and new restrictive measures in some markets (Australia, Thailand, Singapore, ).

In Japan, our sales dipped slightly in the third quarter after double-digit growth in the first half. The decrease mainly resulted from the ongoing state of health emergency (reintroduced in July), which negatively impacted physical retail, including our retail network. However, our sales in cookware and kitchenware grew over the quarter (notably thanks to the new G6 range), with a significant improvement from one month to the next.

In South Korea, the slight decrease in sales in the third quarter resulted primarily from the partial closure of Ningbo port in China, which disrupted our supply at the end of August.

Yet, the Group succeeded in reinforcing its positions in its largest markets (Japan, South Korea, Australia, ).

In parallel, excellent performances were posted in Vietnam, Malaysia (driven by e-commerce) and Taiwan (WMF, cookware, and new listings in electrical cooking and food preparation).

COMMENTS ON PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS ACTIVITY

Revenue in m 9 months

2020 9 months

2021 Change 2021/2020 Q3 Change 2021/2020 As reported Like-for-like* As reported Like-for-like* Professional business 428 456 +6.4% +8.7% +35.4% +34.9%

With year-on-year sales up 35%, both as reported and LFL, the Professional business confirmed in the third quarter the rebound initiated in the second, returning to growth for the nine-month period (vs a decrease at June 30). The vigorous momentum was driven by Professional Coffee, Hotel equipment, and Krampouz. However, business activity remained down from 2019, which ranks as an exceptional year for the Coffee business.

In Professional Coffee, representing over 90% of Professional sales, third-quarter revenue growth was strong but contrasted from one region to the next. It remained timid in Germany-Switzerland-Austria, where the impact of hotel and restaurant reopenings remains moderate so far, but was revitalized in Asia, thanks in particular to the resumption of orders with key customers in China. In EMEA and North America, second-quarter momentum became more widespread and accelerated in the last three months. It was fueled primarily by the development of core business with key accounts and by the concrete implementation of a few specific contracts, for example in the UK and the United States. The rebound in quarterly sales was bolstered by both coffee machines and service (maintenance), which has regained favorable dynamic and returned close to the levels of 2019.

Parallel to this, after 15 very difficult months owed to the extended closures of hotels and restaurants, Hotel Equipment achieved a sharp upturn in the third quarter (admittedly against low comparatives), bolstered by high-quality projects in Germany and China.

Krampouz posted a solid improvement in performance over the entire period.

OPERATING RESULT FROM ACTIVITY (ORfA)

At end-September, the Group's Operating Result from Activity (ORfA) stood at 528m, compared with 324m in 2020 (+63%). The figure includes a currency effect of -38m.

The nine-month total includes third-quarter ORfA of 208m, compared with 221m in 2020 (-6%).

Compared to 2019, which is more "normal" than 2019, the Operating Result from Activity is up nearly 30% over 9-month and nearly 17% in the third-quarter.

Operating margin thus stood at 9.5% at end-September and 10.6% for the quarter.

In a less promotional environment, the improvement in 9-month ORfA mainly stemmed from:

robust organic sales growth, fueled by important growth drivers investments

quality sales, leading to very favorable price and mix effects

productivity gains and excellent industrial costs absorption.

All of these elements led the Group to significantly offset the additional costs relating to raw materials, components, freight and FX.

DEBT AT SEPTEMBER 30, 2021

Net financial debt amounted to 1,951m at September 30, 2021. It includes 316m in IFRS 16 debt. Net debt is broadly stable vs. September 2020 in a context of strongly growing business.

The 433 M increase vs. December 2020 is mainly attributable to a proactive stock building policy in order to secure supply chain in an overall tense environment.

After an atypical year 2020, the operating working capital requirement (WCR) is now back to 2019 levels.

Furthermore, the Group has pursued its investments policy with capital expenditures having been maintained at a normative level.

Groupe SEB reiterates that it is able to rely on a solid financial situation, underpinned by a healthy financial structure that is well-balanced in terms of instruments and maturities and free of financial covenants.

OUTLOOK

After an excellent first half, the Group reported a better-than-expected third quarter, despite more demanding 2020 comparatives.

Performances in the third quarter, which were also up from 2019, reflected the following:

more solid momentum in the consumer market than expected, and, overall, vigorous Group business in most regions, especially in Europe, serving to strengthen our positions;

- a confirmed rebound in Professional Coffee;

- the Group's ability to absorb the additional costs stemming from heightened supply-chain tensions though the successful execution of the offsetting measures having been implemented (price increases, improved mix, productivity gains, cost control).

Against this backdrop, the Group is:

making an upwards revision to its assumption of reported sales growth in 2021, which is now expected around 14% (vs. over 10% previously);

maintaining its ORfA margin assumption for the year at close to 10%, with additional costs (raw materials, components, freight and FX) now estimated at around 300m on Operating Result from Activity (vs. "more than 250m" at end-July).

APPENDIX DETAIL OF REVENUE BY REGION 3rd QUARTER

Revenue in m Q3

2020 Q3

2021 Change 2021/2020 As reported Like-for-like* EMEA Western Europe Other countries 846 610 236 936 671 264 + 10,6 % 10,2 11,8 + 10,0 % 9,8 10,5 AMERICAS North America South America 286 208 78 293 202 91 + 2,3 % 2,7 15,7 - 3,5 % 9,0 11,0 ASIA China Other countries 543 401 142 567 430 137 + 4,4 % 7,2 3,6 - 0,2 % 0,6 2,6 TOTAL Consumer 1 675 1 796 + 7,2 % + 4,4 % Professional business 122 165 + 35,4 % + 34,9 % GROUPE SEB 1 797 1 961 + 9,1 % + 6,4 % * Like-for-like: at constant exchange rates and scope Rounded figures in m

Conference with management on October 26, 6:00 p.m. CET

Click here to access the live webcast (in English)

Replay available on our website

on October 26 from 8:00 p.m. CET at www.groupeseb.com

Access (audio only):

From France: +33 (0)1 7037 7166 Password: SEB

From abroad: +44 (0) 33 0551 0200 Password: SEB

On a like-for-like basis (LFL) Organic

The amounts and growth rates at constant exchange rates and consolidation scope in a given year compared with the previous year are calculated:

using the average exchange rates of the previous year for the period in consideration (year, half-year, quarter);

on the basis of the scope of consolidation of the previous year.

This calculation is made primarily for sales and Operating Result from Activity.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA is equal to Operating Result from Activity minus discretionary and non-discretionary profit-sharing, to which are added operating depreciation and amortization. Net debt Net indebtedness.

Operating Result from Activity (ORfA)

Operating Result from Activity (ORfA) is Groupe SEB's main performance indicator. It corresponds to sales minus operating costs, i.e. the cost of sales, innovation expenditure (R&D, strategic marketing and design), advertising, operational marketing as well as commercial and administrative costs. ORfA does not include discretionary and non-discretionary profit-sharing or other non-recurring operating income and expense

Free cash flow

Free cash flow corresponds to adjusted EBTIDA, after considering changes in operating working capital, recurring capital expenditures (CAPEX), taxes and financial expenses, and other non-operating items.

Net financial debt

This term refers to all recurring and non-recurring financial debt minus cash and cash equivalents, as well as derivative instruments linked to Group financing. It also includes debt from application of the IFRS 16 standard "Leases" in addition to short-term investments with no risk of a substantial change in value but with maturities of over three months.

Loyalty program (LP)

These programs, led by distribution retailers, consist in offering promotional offers on a product category to loyal consumers who have made a series of purchases within a short period of time. These promotional programs allow distributors to boost footfall in their stores and our consumers to access our products at preferential prices.

SDA

Small domestic appliances: electrical cooking and home, linen and personal care.

PCM

Professional coffee machines

This press release may contain certain forward-looking statements regarding Groupe SEB's activity, results and financial situation. These forecasts are based on assumptions which seem reasonable at this stage, but which depend on external factors including trends in commodity prices, exchange rates, the economic climate, demand in the Group's large markets and the impact of new product launches by competitors.

As a result of these uncertainties, Groupe SEB cannot be held liable for potential variance on its current forecasts, which result from unexpected events or unforeseeable developments.

The factors which could considerably influence Groupe SEB's economic and financial result are presented in the Annual Financial Report and Universal Registration Document filed with the Autorite des Marches Financiers, the French financial markets authority.

Next key dates 2022 January 25 | after market closes Provisional 2021 sales February 25 | before market opens 2021 sales and results April 28 | after market closes Q1 2022 sales and financial data May 19 | 3:00 pm (Paris time) Annual General Meeting July 21 before market opens H1 2022 sales and results October 24 after market closes 9-month 2022 sales and financial data

Find us on www.groupeseb.com

World reference in small domestic equipment, Groupe SEB operates with a unique portfolio of 31 top brands including Tefal, Seb, Rowenta, Moulinex, Krups, Lagostina, All-Clad, WMF, Emsa, Supor, marketed through multi-format retailing. Selling more than 360 million products a year, it deploys a long-term strategy focused on innovation, international development, competitiveness, and service to clients. Present in over 150 countries, Groupe SEB generated sales of 6.9 billion in 2020 and has more than 33,000 employees worldwide.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005974/en/

Contacts:

Investor/Analyst Relations

Groupe SEB

Financial Communication and IR Dept

Isabelle Posth

Raphael Hoffstetter

comfin@groupeseb.com

Tel. +33 (0) 4 72 18 16 04

Media Relations

Groupe SEB

Corporate Communication Dept

Cathy Pianon

Anissa Djaadi

com@groupeseb.com

Tel.: 33 (0) 6 33 13 02 00

Tel:. 33 (0) 6 88 20 90 88

Image Sept

Caroline Simon

Claire Doligez

Isabelle Dunoyer de Segonzac

caroline.simon@image7.fr

cdoligez@image7.fr

isegonzac@image7.fr

Tel. +33 (0)1 53 70 74 70
PALO ALTO, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Bitcoin Latinum (LTNM), the next generation, insured, asset-backed cryptocurrency, has officially listed on the DigiFinex exchange. Bitcoin Latinum congratulates DigiFinex on a successful launch, and everyone who has supported the project.

Monsoon Blockchain, Bitcoin Latinum's lead developer, has announced plans for Bitcoin Latinum to officially list on seven top-tier public exchanges, under the ticker LTNM. In addition to DigiFinex, the exchanges are: HitBTC (the fifth largest exchange by volume at $4 billion), FMFW (formerly Bitcoin.com and operating with $3.3 billion in daily trading volume), Changelly ($2.71 billion in daily volume), Changelly Pro, Bitmart ($1.6 billion in daily volume), and XT.com by the end of 2021.

Headquartered in Singapore, DigiFinex boasts over 4 million users across the globe, and can be accessed by users in 150 countries. With daily trading volume around $1 billion, DigiFinex is one of the top rated global cryptocurrency exchanges that offers spot, leverage, perpetual trading, and fiat to crypto trading. In addition, DigiFinex offers unparalleled 24/7 customer service for its user base. For more information about DigiFinex, please visit https://www.digifinex.com/

Bitcoin Latinum was built as an open-architecture cryptocurrency technology, capable of handling large transaction volume, cybersecurity, and digital asset management. Based on the Bitcoin ecosystem, Bitcoin Latinum was developed by Monsoon Blockchain Corporation on behalf of the Bitcoin Latinum Foundation. LTNM is a greener, faster, and more secure version of Bitcoin, and is poised to revolutionize digital transactions.

Unlike other crypto assets, LTNM is insured, and backed by real-world and digital assets. Its asset backing is held in a fund model, so that base asset value increases over time. It accelerates this asset-backed funds growth by depositing 80% of the transaction fee back into the asset fund that backs the currency. Thus, the more Bitcoin Latinum is adopted, the faster its asset funds grow, creating a self-inflating currency. The listing on DigiFinex highlights Bitcoin Latinum Foundation's commitment to supporting the growth of a sustainable crypto ecosystem.

Bitcoin Latinum was developed with a highly scalable network that will initially support up to 10,000 transactions per second and millions of transactions per day to facilitate retail transactions. With its Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus method, Bitcoin Latinum ensures the network facilitates more transactions per minute at lower transaction fees. Utilizing an efficient consensus mechanism, Bitcoin Latinum provides a much better on-chain payment network compared to Bitcoin, with an average transaction confirmation in 3-5 seconds.

LTNM is one of the greenest cryptocurrencies in existence, and recently joined the Crypto Climate Accord. Utilizing its advanced Proof of Stake (PoS) mechanism, LTNM holders will earn rewards for holding their coins as collateral to stake on the Bitcoin Latinum network. This leads to less electricity consumption. LTNM reduces the energy consumption to only 0.00015 kWh per transaction.

For more information about Bitcoin Latinum, please visit https://bitcoinlatinum.com

Media contact

Brand: Bitcoin Latinum

Contact: Kai Okada, Director of Communications

E-mail: Kai.Okada@bitcoinlatinum.com

Website: https://bitcoinlatinum.com/

Address: 2100 Geng Road, Palo Alto, California 94303, USA

Telephone: +1 800-528-0985

SOURCE: Bitcoin Latinum Foundation

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669715/Bitcoin-Latinum-LTNM-Officially-Launches-on-DigiFinex-Exchange
Clio's commitment to client-centered technology illustrates a permanent change in client expectations and the need for lawyers to deliver cloud-based, frictionless experiences.

VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, Clio, the world's leading provider of cloud-based legal technology, revealed a robust set of product enhancements and a new equity investment fund to prepare legal professionals to meet the demands of clients today and in the future.

These announcements-focused on providing effortless client experiences and increasing firm productivity-included the launch of a new online payments system, enhanced client collaboration tools, an expanded library of court forms, and a virtual drive designed to make document management more efficient.

"Today's legal client is seeking the same online, convenient, and flexible experiences from their legal provider as they do in other aspects of their lives," said Jack Newton, CEO and Founder of Clio. "And we are committed to helping law firms deliver on those expectations through cloud-based technology that enhances the delivery of their services."

Enabling frictionless payment experiences

As uncovered in this year's Legal Trends Report, clients prefer to pay for legal services using online and automated payments over traditional methods like submitting a check, or providing payment details over the phone or mail.

To support these growing preferences, Clio announced the launch of their own online payments platform, Clio Payments. With Clio Payments, law firms can offer their clients the ability to pay via eChecks, debit, and credit card payments, and in manageable installments, all while being fully compliant with legal industry rules for trust accounting. Additionally, clients can securely store their payment information in Clio Payments to make future bill payments a zero-friction experience.

With the introduction of Clio Payments, Clio now offers a complete and fully integrated billing suite that the company will rapidly innovate to ease points of friction in the payments and collections process.

Delivering on client collaboration expectations and making it easier to communicate in real-time

The need for more centralized client communication and collaboration has never been more apparent as it has been since the onset of the pandemic, which brought about new expectations and ways of operating. However, the pressure to update clients frequently and the impact of constant communication has always been present within the legal industry. In 2017, 42% of clients expected a weekly update on their legal matters, which resulted in 25% of legal professionals being interrupted more than 10 times per day, and 30% being interrupted between 6 and 10 times per day.

To facilitate greater collaboration between lawyers and clients, Clio announced the mobile and desktop communication app: Clio for Clients. Lawyers can now use one secure and central location to provide case updates and notify clients when a document is ready for review. Simultaneously, clients can use the built-in scanner to upload documents, send and receive messages privately. With a simple interface, and direct connection to Clio Manage, Clio for Clients is simplifying collaboration for both lawyers and clients.

With client demands increasing, it will be critical for lawyers to maximize their time and reduce costly no shows. To assist with meeting coordination, Clio announced new text notifications. With text notifications, law firms can send an SMS-based confirmation to participants when they schedule a meeting in Clio. Recipients receive all the meeting details and can confirm their attendance directly in the text chat.

Streamlining court form production

Solving the pain points between lawyers and clients is not complete without looking at the constructs in which law firms operate. Effectively navigating court deadlines and completing necessary documents is time consuming, but a missed deadline or a form error could result in grave consequences.

To simplify court requirements, Clio acquired CalendarRules, a company dedicated to building, maintaining, and delivering court rules to lawyers through real-time integrations with calendar systems, and Lawyaw, which simplifies information gathering and document production, and offers digital court forms both for the federal level and for the State of California.

When Clio acquired CalendarRules and Lawyaw mere months ago, the team committed to continued innovation and rapid integration of the product solutions. Clio and the LawYaw team made good on those commitments today, with the announcement that LawYaw has added automated court forms for 5 additional states including, New York, Florida, Texas, Illinois, and Georgia.

Simplifying document management

The continued adoption of cloud-based technology is top of mind for the vast majority of law firms well into the future. The key to doing this successfully will be for firms to adopt technology that supports employee preferences while creating new operational efficiencies.

To support legal professionals, who prefer to work from their desktops directly, Clio launched Clio Drive. As a central and powerful part of Clio Manage's document suite, Clio Drive works within a firm's existing processes, giving legal professionals the ability to create, access, edit, store and even collaborate on files and folders from their desktop-while keeping them securely synced in Clio.

Investing in legal technology innovation for all

Aligned to Clio's mission to transform the legal experience for all, the company announced Clio Ventures, a new equity investment portfolio for promising early stage legaltech companies offering best in class products and solutions. Embedded in Clio's culture is the belief that diversity of experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds is a necessity for all 21st-century companies. Clio has firmly rooted that belief in its strategy to back diverse-led innovative companies that are transforming the legal landscape.

"The goal is to support the most compelling companies building on the Clio platform," said Jack Newton. "We will be deliberate in our choice to invest in companies with diverse leadership that is reflective of the vibrant legal communities we serve."

With these announcements, Clio marks a defining next step in their vision to build the first legal operating system for all. Learn more about Clio's latest product news at clio.com/whats-new.

About Clio

Clio is transforming the legal experience for all through cloud-based and client-centred legal technology. Clio has become a company to watch on a global scale after securing a US$6M Series B investment in 2012 by German-based Acton Capital, a US$20M Series C investment in 2014 by Bessemer Venture Partners and one of the largest investments in legaltech and Canadian history in 2019 with a US$250M Series D funding round led by TCV and JMI Equity. In 2021, Clio made history again by becoming the first legal practice management unicorn globally with a US$110M Series E investment led by T. Rowe Price Associates, Inc. and OMERS Growth Equity. Learn more at clio.com.

Chloe Phillips, PR and Social Media Specialist, 1-800-347-8314, chloe.phillips@clio.com

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1670067/Product_updates_1.jpg
Almere, The Netherlands

October 26, 2021, 6 p.m. CET

Record quarterly order intake driven by continued strong logic/foundry demand

ASM International N.V. (Euronext Amsterdam: ASM) today reports its third quarter 2021 operating results (unaudited) in accordance with IFRS.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

EUR million Q3 2020 Q2 2021 Q3 2021 New orders 303.4 515.7 624.5 Revenue 314.6 411.7 432.9 Gross profit margin % 49.9 48.1 47.2 Operating result 83.9 118.4 117.3 Operating result margin % 26.7 28.7 27.1 Result from investments (excluding amortization intangible assets resulting from the sale of ASMPT stake in 2013) 6.3 19.3 27.6 Amortization intangible assets (resulting from the sale of ASMPT stake in 2013) (3.0) (3.0) (3.1) Net earnings 58.1 108.4 128.9 Normalized net earnings (excluding amortization intangible assets resulting from the sale of ASMPT stake in 2013 and result from sale of ASMPT shares) 61.2 111.4 132.0

New orders of 625 million for the third quarter 2021 increased by 106% as reported compared to the same period last year.

Year-on-year revenue growth for the third quarter 2021 was 38% at constant currencies (38% as reported).

Gross profit margin of 47.2% was lower compared to the relatively strong level of 49.9% in the same quarter last year.

Operating result for the third quarter 2021 improved from 84 million last year to 117 million this year mainly driven by strong revenue growth.

Normalized net earnings for the third quarter 2021 were 132 million, a significant improvement compared to the same quarter last year.

COMMENT

"ASMI continued its strong growth path in the third quarter," said Benjamin Loh, President and Chief Executive Officer of ASM International. "Order intake surged to a new quarterly record of 625 million and was driven by continued strong logic/foundry demand and in part also by orders for shipment in 2022. As already announced on September 28, 2021, order intake exceeded previous guidance of 510-530 million. Compared to the same period last year, sales in the third quarter increased by 38%. Revenue, at 433 million, was slightly above the high end of the guidance of 400-430 million, despite continued tight supply chain conditions during the quarter. We are currently seeing some improvements but overall supply chain conditions are expected to remain challenging in Q4. Thanks to our team for another quarter of strong execution and to our suppliers and customers for their continued solid support and cooperation."

OUTLOOK

For Q4, on a currency comparable level, we expect sales of 470-500 million. Q4 bookings, on a currency comparable level, are expected to be around 600 million. Starting 2022, we will stop providing guidance on order intake as it has become clear in the last two quarters in which actual order intake was significantly higher than guided that it is increasingly more challenging in the current environment to provide a meaningful outlook. With a continued strong momentum in the second half of the year, the wafer fab equipment (WFE) market is expected to grow by a mid-to-high thirties percentage in 2021.

SHARE BUYBACK PROGRAM

On July 28, 2021, ASMI announced the start of the 100 million share buyback program. As of September 30, 2021, 56.4% of the share buyback program was completed at an average share price of 328.07.

ASMI INVESTOR DAY 2021

On September 28, 2021, ASMI held its first Investor Day, in which ASMI's management shared the company's strategy, how to create value and drive growth through innovation. Highlights included:

Targeting revenue of 2.8-3.4 billion by 2025 (2020-2025 CAGR of 16%-21%), gross margins of 46%-50% in 2021-2025, and operating margins of 26%-31% in 2021-2025;

Targeting Net Zero emissions by 2035 and 100% renewable electricity by 2024;

Single-wafer ALD market expected to increase from $1.5 billion in 2020 to $3.1-3.7 billion by 2025;

Further capacity expansion of our new manufacturing facility in Singapore to be production ready by early 2023.

NET ZERO ANNOUNCEMENT

In its Investor Day on September 28, 2021, ASMI also announced its target to achieve Net Zero emissions by 2035. The target includes setting science based targets for Scope 1, 2, and 3 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions. ASMI plans to source 100% of its electricity from renewable sources for all of its global operations from 2024 onward. Relative to its 2020 baseline, this would represent a ~90% absolute reduction of ASM Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions.

About ASM International

ASM International NV, headquartered in Almere, the Netherlands, its subsidiaries and participations design and manufacture equipment and materials used to produce semiconductor devices. ASM International, its subsidiaries and participations provide production solutions for wafer processing (Front-end segment) as well as for assembly & packaging and surface mount technology (Back-end segment) through facilities in the United States, Europe, Japan and Asia. ASM International's common stock trades on the Euronext Amsterdam Stock Exchange (symbol ASM). For more information, visit ASMI's website at www.asm.com .

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: All matters discussed in this press release, except for any historical data, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. These include, but are not limited to, economic conditions and trends in the semiconductor industry generally and the timing of the industry cycles specifically, currency fluctuations, corporate transactions, financing and liquidity matters, the success of restructurings, the timing of significant orders, market acceptance of new products, competitive factors, litigation involving intellectual property, shareholders or other issues, commercial and economic disruption due to natural disasters, terrorist activity, armed conflict or political instability, changes in import/export regulations, epidemics and other risks indicated in the Company's reports and financial statements. The Company assumes no obligation nor intends to update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future developments or circumstances.

This press release contains inside information within the meaning of Article 7(1) of the EU Market Abuse Regulation.



ASM International N.V will host an investor conference call and webcast on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, at 15:00 p.m. Continental European Time (9:00 a.m. - US Eastern Time).

Conference call participants should pre-register using the link below to receive the Dial-In Numbers, Direct Event Passcode and unique Registrant ID, which will be needed to access the conference call.

Online registration for the conference call: http://emea.directeventreg.com/registration/8878063

A simultaneous audio webcast and replay will be accessible at www.asm.com .

CONTACT

Investor and media contact:



Victor Bareno

T: +31 88 100 8500

E: victor.bareno@asm.com

Attachment
Seoul, Republic of Korea--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - The platform (WEXTOWN) allows LEVOIST to advertise before and after the song release via different activities. With the onset of the 4th industrial revolution, content IP is becoming more important globally.

LEVOGLOBAL safeguards the intellectual property rights of worldwide fans and investors who participate in the creation of new assets that can be freely exchanged using distributed ledger technology.

It wants to extend the sharing platform to other sectors such as K-drama and movie rights in the future and has completed practical data verification of worldwide fans and investors through various projects.





Figure 1: LEVOGLOBAL - Protects the Rights and Generates Revenue via Blockchain

In addition, on October 18, 2021, Rogers Holdings Chairman Jim Rogers and Levoist Chairman Kim Jong-hoon and Levoist CEO Byeong-hoon Oh had conversations about Levoist's contents business for 1 hour and 30 minutes and Chairman Jim Rogers showed great interest in Levoist's IP sharing business.

LEVOIST TOKEN (LVI) Allocation

Token: LEVOIST

Symbol: LVI

ERC20 Token Platform

2,000,000,000 LVI Token Cap

So, when individuals apply NFT to work, they control the ownership and transaction history of the work. NFT is a certificate. Because blockchain technology is used, it is difficult to find fakes or counterfeit goods, and the owner's right is guaranteed. This technological feature allows the WeX project's sound source to be revealed on the blockchain, exchanging partial ownership.

Generating Data Blocks for NFT

The WeX project validates and generates data blocks required for NFT development, such as participant transaction information for sound sources.

Dapps built on Ethereum enjoy the benefits of crypto and blockchain technology. Decentralized apps running on Ethereum always do what they are designed to do. To manage digital assets and develop new financial applications. Also, the financial application may be decentralized, meaning no one organization or person controls it.

Because Ethereum is programmable, developers may create new apps. The blockchain stores the hash value and creation time of each sound source material and transaction history data, decreasing the blockchain's data size and increasing processing speed.

Business Structure

In the case of Related Rights, the right to sound source income is guaranteed for 70 years after publication, and in the case of Copyright, for 70 years after the author's death. Also, music income from outlets like YouTube, concerts, and karaoke is generated.

Hallyu (Korean Wave) music exports topped the total export volume by 11.9 percent. The most popular Hallyu stuff worldwide.

K-Pop has a market share of over 55% in Asia and the Americas and 30-40% in Europe and the Middle East, the most among all genres. The Revoist subsidiary exchange may benefit from Related Rights trading.

Advantages

Support for individual sales of Related Rights and Copyright.

Taking care of K-pop enthusiasts worldwide.

Artist co-ownership and prize sharing (sound source revenue).

Jointly owns the artist's sound source rights (performance right).

To put it another way, it allows fans to jointly own and profit from a freshly released sound source that is the artist's emblem.

Revenue

Smaller agencies have a harder time raising money to release new songs by their performers. Most sound sources are created with the help of lenders or distributors, raising future costs.

The LEVOIST platform can help alleviate this financial strain by covering 100% of the production expenses for new sound source releases (WEXTOWN)

Holders of LVI Tokens get the following advantages when purchasing IP rights through the LEVOIST platform (WEXTOWN).

During the pre-open time for any project, only LVI Token may be bought.

Buying intellectual property with LVI Tokens outside the pre-open period gets an extra discount.

Other advantages like Goods.

Provide restricted goods such as artist's signature while utilizing the LEVOIST platform (WEXTOWN) using LVI Token.

Concerts and fan meetings get priority.

Social Media:

Telegram: https://t.me/LVI_LEVOGLOBAL

Media Details

Company Name: LEVO GLOBAL Co., Ltd.

Contact Name: Inha Cho

Email: ihcho65@gmail.com

Location: 706ho25, Gukjegeumyung-ro 8-gil, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea

Website: https://levoglobal.io

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100881
HAIKOU, China, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- South China's Hainan Free Trade Port launched a global talent recruitment fair in Haikou on October 24, signaling to the world that the island is eager to have more talented individuals settle here.

Compared with previous such activities, this recruitment activity is more flexible, has more and better defined job positions, has a greater range of potential targets, and will run for a longer period of time.

According to Xia Chenge (Deputy Director of the provincial Talent Development Bureau) the employers in the province who are currently looking for talented individuals and key personnel to fill more than 36,000 job openings include universities, scientific research institutes, key laboratories, hospitals, state-owned enterprises, key project platforms and industrial parks. Among the total job postings, there are more than 100 with an annual salary in excess of CNY 1 million.

As for the Hainan Free Trade Port's 11 key industrial parks, they are hoping to fill 11,496 job vacancies. Signifying the island province's demand for professional and technical personnel, these postings-at around 30% of the total number of openings-show a significant increase over previous such activities in both the number of positions and the quality of those positions.

According to Director Xia, many of these positions are oriented towards people from overseas or with overseas experience. In addition, this recruitment activity's introduction of talented personnel is obviously industry oriented, with the focus being on the province's leading industries (i.e. tourism, the modern service industry, and high-tech, efficient tropical agriculture). This then provides for a step forward to be taken in building a solid foundation for the development of the Hainan FTP.

Starting from 2018, Hainan has successively formulated and introduced a series of policies on talent taxation, settlement, real estate purchases, automobile purchases, children's schooling, and medical insurance.

In terms of taxation, for high-end talented individuals and people working in Hainan who are desperately needed for the development of the FTP, the actual tax burden of personal income tax cannot exceed 15%. Anything above that is exempt.

Foreign personnel in Hainan are now allowed to participate in 38 professional qualification examinations including those for becoming registered architects and licensed pharmacists. At the same time a total of 219 different professional qualifications from overseas are now recognized throughout the province.

In terms of the medical security, foreign talents and their spouses, immediate family members and service personnel-regardless of nationality or household registration-can enjoy the same basic medical insurance provided to urban and rural residents of Hainan.

This recruitment activity will continue till June next year, and job seekers can log in to the official website (www.ihnhr.com) to search for positions and submit resumes.

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5IJn8M0HPI
The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) receives an award from the ITS World Congress for the operation of NAVYA's Autonom Shuttles in full Level 4 autonomy

Second anniversary of the Lake Nona program, with six Autonom Shuttles over five open routes throughout the community

Regulatory News:

NAVYA (FR0013018041- Navya), a leading company in autonomous mobility systems, congratulates the JTA for receiving the ITS World Congress Hall of Fame Local Government Award for the Americas Region, recognizing the historic deployment of autonomous vehicles to move more than 30,000 COVID-19 tests on the Mayo Clinic's Jacksonville campus in 2020.

The ITS World Congress Hall of Fame Local Government Award is given to a government agency that develops and/or deploys significant innovative ITS products or services that fostered advanced deployment of ITS services, implements policies or projects advancing the development and deployment of ITS and plays a leading role in the ITS Community.

From March until July 2020, the JTA's Automation Innovation Division worked with Beep and NAVYA to deploy autonomous vehicles on the Mayo Clinic's Jacksonville campus to move successfully more than 30,000 COVID-19 and BAP test samples from drive-thru testing sites to the hospital's laboratories. In concert with the JTA and Mayo Clinic, Beep enabled multiple NAVYA vehicles end-to-end along the roughly 0.5-mile route on the Mayo Clinic campus. The Autonom Shuttles operated with Level 4 autonomy, without on-board attendants.

NAVYA has grown in the U.S. since 2019 thanks to different deployments including JTA, Lake Nona, Tampa, St. Petersburgh and Port St. Lucie. The strategic partnership built with Beep started with the deployment of two shuttles in Lake Nona (Orlando), FL, which has expanded to become the largest and longest single AV network in the United States of America.

As of today, 6 Autonom Shuttles operate seven days a week across five routes in the community on public roads. All routes connect the key destinations within the 17-mile master planned community such as the Town Center, recreational area, Orlando VA Medical Center, Nemours Children's Hospital and Ronald McDonald House to Lake Nona residential areas. Two years after its launch, the Autonom Shuttles have driven over 21,000 miles, had ridership of more than 30,000+ passengers, reduced the equivalent of 16,800 vehicle trips, and saved thousands of pounds of CO2 with the 100% electric autonomous shuttles.

NAVYA and Beep have already several new vehicle launches together, as the one deployed early October 2021 in the Innovation Corridor at Peachtree Corners, Georgia, and two upcoming in Tampa, Florida and Peoria, Arizona.

Will Sosson, Director of NAVYA, Inc. in North America, stated: " We congratulate JTA on winning ITS World Congress Hall of Fame Local Government Award using Navya Autonom Shuttles. Our focus is to be number one supplier in the United States of self-driving solutions to serve customers like Beep

Joe Moye, CEO of Beep added: "NAVYA'S safe and reliable self-driving technology proved the feasibility and viability of fully autonomous vehicles, with no attendant onboard, to help facilitate the safe transport of COVID-19 test supplies. The safe testing of autonomous shuttles on public roads can only be accomplished through collaboration and working with the best of breed platforms in the industry".

Pierre Lahutte, CEO of NAVYA, added: "We would like to thank Beep for its trust and all the achievements our partnership delivered during these two years. The deployments such as the ones operated on the Mayo Clinic and Lake Nona illustrate all the benefits provided by alternative mobility solutions. With these experiments, NAVYA technology proved to deliver an easy, safe and sustainable service, able to decrease the number of vehicle trips while reducing the carbon footprint within a 100% electric solution".

About the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA)

The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is an independent state agency serving Jacksonville, Florida and Northeast Florida with multi-modal responsibilities. The JTA provides varied mass public transit services, and is a builder of roads, bridges and other infrastructure to enhance mobility in Jacksonville. Public transportation services include BRT and regular bus service, paratransit, the St. Johns River Ferry, Skyway APM, and other mobility and on-demand services in Duval, Clay, Baker, Nassau and St. Johns counties. To learn more, visit www.jtafla.com

About Beep

Beep delivers the next generation of mobility services utilizing driverless, electric, multi-passenger vehicles. By specializing in planning, deploying and managing advanced autonomous shuttles for both private and public communities, Beep safely connects people, places and services in first-mile, last-mile mobility networks. Beep also leverages the data and learnings from its public road deployments to produce vehicle agnostic, edge solutions meant to enhance safety, access, artificial-intelligence and driverless operating capabilities of autonomous platforms. Beep delivers on a primary goal of enabling mobility-for-all with the services and software they provide. For more information visit: www.ridebeep.com

About NAVYA

Created in 2014, NAVYA is a leading French name specialized in the supply of autonomous mobility systems and associated services. With 280 employees in France (Paris and Lyon), in the United States (Michigan) and in Singapore, NAVYA aims at becoming the leading player in level 4 autonomous mobility systems for passenger and goods transport. Since 2015, NAVYA has been the first to market and put into service autonomous mobility solutions. The Autonom Shuttle, main development axis, is dedicated to passenger transport. Since its launch, more than 180 units have been sold in 23 countries as of 31 December 2020. The Autonom Tract is designed to goods transport. Engaged in an ambitious CSR approach, the Company has an active policy in this area, as illustrated by the obtaining of the ISO 9001 certification in September 2021. The Valeo and Keolis groups are among NAVYA's historical shareholders.

NAVYA is listed on the Euronext regulated market in Paris (ISIN code: FR0013018041- Navya).

For more information visit: www.navya.tech/en

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006009/en/

Contacts:

NAVYA

CSR, Marketing

Communication Manager

Melanie Voron

melanie.voron@navya.tech

+33 (0)6 68 23 82 84

CFO

Benoit Jacheet

finance@navya.tech

NewCap

Investor relations

Thomas Grojean

Nicolas Fossiez

navya@newcap.eu

+33 (0)1 44 71 94 94

Beep Corporate Communications

310.374.6177

BEEP@GoDRIVEN360.com

NewCap

Media relations

Nicolas Merigeau

navya@newcap.eu

+33 (0)1 44 71 94 98

Jacksonville Transportation Authority

Communications Director

David Cawton

dcawton@jtafla.com

+1 (904) 630-3100
SARASOTA, FL / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Planet Resource Recovery, Inc. (OTC:PRRY) is providing a general update to its shareholders and followers. They recently announced on Twitter that management is actively searching for an acquisition candidate.

After much consideration, Planet Resource's management pursued a brand with a rich legacy and astonishing potential in the recreational industry. Both companies have agreed to PRRY's acquisition of the product line after an extensive due diligence period while the agreement regarding the transfer of assets, tooling, intellectual property, and rights is being finalized.

The founding company launched their product line in 1969. PRRY's acquisition will include the entire product line created by the founding company along with all associated assets, tooling, IP, and rights, which put the company's valuation over $10,000,000 during peak production in the late 1990's.

Planet Resource Recovery, Inc. CEO Andrew Lapp stated: "This brand has played a role my life since my childhood, and I'm thrilled for the opportunity of a lifetime to carry on its legacy. It's rich heritage and future potential will bring many opportunities to PRRY. As a bonus, we have negotiated an agreement to bring in a new president upon completion of the acquisition. This individual operated as General Manager and Marketing Manager with the founding company between 1993-2013 and played an essential role in the company's annual growth rate of 24%, which resulted in the company's highest production numbers since their inception." Mr. Lapp further revealed that this move is of crucial importance for the product's re-launch and future development.

Planet Resource believes that the next logical step after acquisition is to restart production after a five-year hiatus, which will significantly increase the valuation of the company and open doors to many opportunities for expansion. Management has a well-developed expansion and growth plan that will be implemented in the near future.

About Planet Resource Recovery:

PRRY is the holding company of the fixture brand retail type business. The operating company has been in business since 2016, with continuous expansion year by year. The Company started as an Amazon Third-Party Merchant who was selling a wide variety of clearance Home Improvement items. Nowadays they became a distributor and dealer for a few major brands in the USA.

More updates and filings will be released on a timely basis including the PRRY corporate website. https://planetresourcerecovery.com

Disclosure:

Information in this news release may contain statements about future expectations, plans, prospects or performance of PRRY that constitute forward-looking statements for purposes of the Safe Harbor Provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words or phrases "can be", "expects", "may affect", "believed", "estimate", "project" and similar words and phrases are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. PRRY cautions you that any forward-looking information provided by or on behalf of PRRY is not a guarantee of future performance. None of the information in this press release constitutes or is intended as an offer to sell securities or investment advice of any kind PRRY's actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, some of which are beyond PRRY's control. In addition to those discussed in PRRY's press releases, public filings, and statements by PRRY's management, including, but not limited to, PRRY's estimate of the sufficiency of its existing capital resources, PRRY's ability to raise additional capital to fund future operations, PRRY's ability to repay its existing indebtedness, the uncertainties involved in estimating market opportunities, and in identifying contracts which match PRRY's capability to be awarded contracts. All such forward-looking statements are current only as of the date on which such statements were made. PRRY does not undertake any obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which any such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events

Contact:

Twitter @PlanetPrry

Phone: +1 561-402-8025

Email: ir@planetresourcerecovery.com

Web: https://planetresourcerecovery.com/

SOURCE: Planet Resource Recovery, Inc.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669721/Corporate-Update-Planet-Resource-Recovery-Inc-PRRY-Targeting-Acquisition-Candidate
VALLETTA, Malta, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On 30 September, Kindred Group communicated to temporarily cease services for Dutch residents due to policy changes in the Netherlands. Kindred has today taken the decision to keep its services closed to Dutch residents until a licence is awarded by the Dutch regulator (KSA).

Kindred Group plc (Kindred) has today taken the decision that its services will remain closed to Dutch residents until a licence is awarded to service the Dutch market under the Dutch Remote Gambling Act. Kindred is prepared to submit a license application later in Q4 2021. Subject to the license review process, Kindred looks forward to be awarded an NL license in Q2 2022.

This is in line with the communication on 30 September that Kindred would cease services for Dutch residents on a temporary basis due to recent policy changes communicated by the Dutch Minister for Legal Protection on 20 September.

Kindred is prepared for the Dutch licensing process under the Remote Gambling Act, and has been working on the preparations for a Dutch licence application including successful completion of the required external audit.

This disclosure contains information that Kindred Group is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation (EU nr 596/2014) and the Swedish Securities Markets Act (2007:528). The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person, on 26-10-202119:00 CET.

CONTACT:

For more information:

Patrick Kortman, Head of Corporate Development & Investor Relations, ir@kindredgroup.com, +46 723 877 438

Linda Lyth, Investor Relations Manager, +46 767 681 337

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/kindred-group/r/kindred-services-remain-closed-to-dutch-residents-until-licence-is-awarded,c3440909

The following files are available for download:
MONTREAL, QC/ ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / The Cedars Cancer Foundation is proud to announce that the 6th Annual Cedars Run for Ovarian Cancer successfully raised in excess of $130,000. The event took place on Sunday, October 17th in Town of Mount Royal and attracted over 320 participants.

Dominique Dagenais addressed the crowd under a beautifully sunny sky and stated, "this is a magnificent day compared to yesterday when I felt completely discouraged." Dominique and her family's goal is to give ovarian cancer patients a second chance at life. They are quick to let everyone know how eternally grateful they are to Dr. Gilbert and her amazing medical team for the treatment and care they provided her in her time of need.

"We are incredibly grateful to the Town of Mount Royal for allowing us to once again host this event in the center of their beautiful town" said Jeff J. Shamie, President and CEO of the Cedars Cancer Foundation. The 6th Annual Cedars Run for Ovarian Cancer held a special meaning this year, as it honored and memorialized Dr. Kris Jardon, a skilled a skilled surgeon and compassionate gynecologic oncology physician who passed away from cancer in early 2021. "We are honored to have known him and we are grateful for this opportunity to commemorate him at an event he so avidly supported," said Mr. Shamie.

Dr. Lucy Gilbert, Director of Gynecologic Cancer Services at the MUHC and professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Oncology at McGill University, was later joined by colleagues Dr. Xing Zeng, Obstetrician and Gynecologist and Joelle Malek, Nurse Manager of the DOvEEgene Project, to commemorate the late Dr. Kris Jardon. Their heartfelt words captivated everyone in attendance, including some who had personally been treated by Dr. Jardon.

The Dr. Kris Jardon Memorial Trophy, introduced for the first time this year, will be presented annually to the winner of the 10k run. On this inaugural occasion, the trophy was awarded to two co-winners of the 10k run - coincidentally Dr. Jardon's best friends, Stephane Calixte and Etienne Allonier. The late doctor's children, Samuel and Hannah Jardon, presented the trophy to the winners, making the award ceremony that much more meaningful to both the winners and everyone in the audience.

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer for women and one of the most serious. Dr. Lucy Gilbert has made it her life mission to find a cure for ovarian cancer. Dr. Gilbert has previously stated that "if a cancer can be detected early, it can be cured." And she stands fast in her belief that "there has been virtually no improvement in the early diagnosis or cure rate of ovarian cancer. It's just not acceptable."

Founded in 2016 by Dominique Dagenais and her son, Max Joly-Smith, the Annual Cedars Run for Ovarian Cancer raises vital funds and awareness for Dr. Lucy Gilbert's DOvEEgene project. The DOvEEgene project brings screening of ovarian and endometrial cancers one step further with the new genomic uterine pap test, DOvEEgene test, developed by Dr. Gilbert and her team of McGill researchers; it provides a safe and minimally invasive method for earlier diagnosis of ovarian and endometrial cancers. The DOvEEgene Project is committed to raising awareness of Ovarian & Endometrial cancers, advocating for early diagnostic testing, and supporting ovarian cancer patients and their families.

Press Contacts

Roberta Setimi

Digital Media Specialist

DOvEEgene

roberta.setimi@muhc.mcgill.ca



SOURCE: DOvEEgene

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669746/Montreal-Run-For-Ovarian-Cancer-Raises-Over-130K-For-Early-Detection-Test
Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - GOLO Mobile Inc. doing business as Usewalter (TSXV: WLTR) ("Usewalter" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, further to its press release issued on September 15, 2021, its previously announced transaction (the "Transaction"), whereby N. Harris Computer Corporation (the "Purchaser") agreed to purchase 100% of the issued and outstanding shares of GOLO Inc. and Walter Innovations Inc., Usewalter's only active operating subsidiaries, has closed.



Change of Officers

The Company further announces that Philippe Dufour has resigned as Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Secretary of the Company. Peter Mazoff, the Chief Executive Officer of the Company, has been appointed interim Chief Financial Officer and Brahm Gelfand, Chair of the Board, will act as interim Corporate Secretary. The Board thanks Mr. Dufour for his efforts on behalf of the Company. Mr. Dufour has agreed to act as a consultant for the Company as it considers and implements the Dissolution or an alternative transaction.

Dissolution, Delisting and Exploration of Strategic Alternatives

As announced on October 19, 2021, at the special shareholders meeting where shareholders (the "Shareholders") of the Company approved the Transaction, the Shareholders also approved the voluntary dissolution and winding up of the Company (the "Dissolution") and the proposed delisting (the "Delisting") of the Usewalter shares from the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV").

Notwithstanding the receipt of shareholder approval of the Dissolution, the Company's board of directors (the "Board") retains the discretion not to proceed if it determines that the Dissolution is no longer in the best interests of the Company and Shareholders. Given the Company's difficult financial situation, the distributions to shareholders on a per share basis will be minimal and the Board will have to weigh the benefit of considering an alternative transaction against the costs, including those associated with the Company's continuous disclosure obligations. If, prior to its Dissolution the Company receives an offer for a transaction that may, in the view of the Board, provide some potential value to the Shareholders, taking into account all factors that could affect valuation, including timing and certainty of payment or closing, proposed terms and other factors, the Dissolution could be abandoned in favour of such a transaction. The Board is currently exploring strategic alternatives to ensure that Dissolution remains a superior option to alternative transactions and intends to provide an update in that regard as soon as practicable.

As the completion of the Transaction resulted in the sale of substantially all of the Company's operating assets, the Company will no longer meet the Tier 2 listing requirements of the TSXV and will be moved to the NEX board of the TSXV effective on or about October 29, 2021. While the Board considers strategic alternatives, the Company intends to take the necessary steps to maintain a listing on NEX. The Company's trading symbol will change from "WLTR" to "WLTR.H". The Company's shares are expected to remain halted until the Company publishes a further update. There will be no change in the Company's name and no change in its CUSIP number.

If the Board decides to proceed with the Dissolution, the Shareholders will receive any amount available for distribution under the liquidation of the Company. The amount of the distributions will be determined by the Board following review of the Company's tax and other potential liabilities, and its then cash on hand. The Company cautions investors that no distributions or returns of capital have been declared by the Board at this time.

The Company is a reporting issuer in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario. As the Delisting has been approved by the Shareholders, unless the Board exercises its discretion not to proceed with the Dissolution as described above, the Company will take the appropriate steps to voluntarily delist from the TSXV and following the Dissolution will submit the certificate of dissolution to the Alberta Securities Commission, the British Columbia Securities Commission and the Ontario Securities Commission causing it to cease to be a reporting issuer.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release may contain statements which constitute "forward-looking information" under applicable Canadian securities laws, including statements regarding plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities of the Company and/or with respect to the Dissolution, distributions associated with the Dissolution, the likelihood that a superior alternative to Dissolution will be identified and consummated and the maintenance of a listing on the NEX board of the TSXV. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, may identify such forward-looking information. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future business activities and involves risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, fluctuations in market prices, risks relating to the terms of any alternative transaction identified, the inability of the parties to satisfy the conditions precedent for closing of any such transaction, including TSXV approval and any other required approvals, the ability of the Company to maintain a listing on NEX and to graduate to Tier 2 in connection with any potential transaction, continued availability of capital and financing, the ultimate liquidation, Dissolution and Delisting of the Company and general economic, market or business conditions. There can be no assurances that such information will prove accurate and, therefore, readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such uncertainties. The Company does not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking information except as required under the applicable securities laws.

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 news release.

For Further Information:

Peter Mazoff, Chief Executive Officer

1-855-465-6515

ir@usewalter.com

Cindy Gray

5 Quarters Investor Relations, Inc.

403-705-5076

info@5qir.com

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. This news release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States or to or for the account or benefit of U.S. persons (as such terms are defined in Regulation S under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act")), absent registration or an exemption from registration. The securities offered have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws and, therefore, may not be offered for sale in the United States, except in transactions exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws. This news 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 any state in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) is responsible for the adequacy or accuracy of this press release.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100908
LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / As a trusted global provider and industry leader, VPLS offers innovative cloud-to-edge technology and computing services aiming to secure and optimize their clients' businesses.

Transforming Technology Infrastructure for Businesses Around the World

Backed by decades of technical expertise, and boasting more than 7,000 customers worldwide, VPLS is uniquely positioned to provide its clients with the global reach and performance they need to gain an edge on the competition and better serve their customers.

VPLS is an all-encompassing IT provider that offers internet infrastructure worldwide. The company has grown exponentially in recent years and now hosts over 5 million websites on 68,750 servers globally.

This depth of experience, network infrastructure, and expertise, combined with 'best in class' technologies from vendors such as Ruckus Networks, Palo Alto, Nimble Storage, VMware, HP, and Supermicro, has solidified VPLS's position as an industry leader.

Strength In Numbers: A Rapidly Expanding Network

VPLS offers a one-stop-shop for all your data center and managed services needs. With facilities across the globe, the company offers world-class service at any scale or complexity level with their diverse network of strategically positioned data centers and points of presence.

The company has prioritized growth, performance, and unparalleled customer service, scaling its global network across 19 data centers throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. This year alone the company acquired three new data centers located in McKinney, Texas; Chappaqua, New York; and Ayer Rajah Crescent, Singapore. According to VPLS leadership, the company aims to continue this growth pattern, with a prioritization on further expansion into new markets to provide an even more robust global backbone as it continues to grow its international customer base.

Unparalleled Cloud Hosting Services

VPLS Cloud

Built on a carrier-grade foundational network, the VPLS cloud offers a range of diverse and performance-minded hosting, storage, networking, and computing options to satisfy cloud objectives.

When combined with the VPLS ecosystem the cloud transforms into a powerhouse, providing cost-effective infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS) on par with major public cloud providers.

VPLS Hybrid Cloud

At the forefront of VMware Cloud Hosting, VPLS has the honor and privilege of being the first VMware certified service provider to achieve vCloud Powered status. This service enables customers to seamlessly integrate applications, data, and computing functions with hybrid cloud environments, combining the power and performance of private and public clouds in places where intersecting infrastructure is required.

The net effect is a robust hybrid solution that offers incredible agility and flexibility, along with the ability to pull data from hybrid data centers without compromising compliance or security.

Backup and DRaaS

Companies can leverage industry-leading backup technology combined with enterprise cloud solutions to deliver custom-tailored solutions to meet RTO/RPO requirements.

Virtual Desktop Infrastructure (VDI)

VPLS's unmatched melding of cloud hosting and virtual desktops provides customers with exceptional value, security, and performance-minded management tools that IT administrators love.

Public Cloud

VPLS can help customers gain better control over their public cloud, optimizing performance, enhancing security, and offering scalable solutions for both private and public enterprises.

Network Management Services

Arguably the most cost-effective and reliable solution to proactively manage complex networks is by outsourcing to an experienced managed network services provider such as VPLS.

Since its inception, VPLS has built a reputation on its ability to help its customers achieve peak performance, lock-tight security, and efficient management of their network infrastructure.

Taking a Proactive Approach to Managed Network Services, Customers Can Expect:

? Industry-standard best practices regarding configuration

? Always up to date firmware

? Rapid resolution of network incidents or outages

? Protection from cyber threats and mitigation of vulnerabilities

? 24/7/365 monitored performance and optimization

? And more

Managed Security Service Provider

VPLS has more than 20 years of experience as a managed service provider, with a documented track record of helping protect its customers against modern and emerging cyber threats.

Managed Firewall

Partnering with Fortinet, VPLS offers customers industry-leading next-generation firewall protection that is robust and affordable. This award-winning firewall technology is capable of protecting against even the most sophisticated threats including botnets and ransomware attacks.

VPN Services

The VPLS-managed firewall comes with support for both IPsec and SSL VPNs in site-to-site and remote access configurations. VPNs also support multi-factor authentication and customized packages can be engineered to meet client's specific needs.

About VPLS

VPLS is a global leader in dedicated cloud, hosting, network, security, and managed IT services. Solving IT challenges on a global scale, VPLS utilizes industry-leading technology along with certified technology experts with decades of experience, to deliver world-class managed services for its clients.

Committed to high-performance technology solutions for over 20 years, the company offers a broad range of value-driven IT services that empower its customers and offers IT solutions that drive performance and further business goals.

Source: https://www.vpls.com/

Phone number: 888-365-2656

Email: sales@vpls.com

SOURCE: VPLS

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669747/VPLS-Grows-as-a-Global-Cloud-to-Edge-Service-Provider
IT teams can build Data Clean Rooms with support for all major cloud services providers

IT has full data governance over consumer data within standard SaaS architecture

PORTLAND, OR / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / LeadsRx - a leading provider of multi-touch marketing attribution and customer journey analytics software and services - today announced support for additional cloud service platforms within its LeadsRx Privacy Studio architecture. This new support capability enables IT organizations greater flexibility in choosing a system to host Data Clean Rooms (DCR) that house marketing analytics data, further protecting sensitive consumer data.

In addition to existing support for Amazon Web Services, LeadsRx has expanded support for the following cloud service platforms:

Google Cloud

IBM Cloud

Microsoft Azure

Oracle Cloud

DigitalOcean

Rackspace Cloud

As marketing teams continue their use of advanced analytics such as multi-touch attribution and customer journey mapping, many will choose to store this data outside of the traditional Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) architecture and instead use a private Data Clean Room (DCR). This move allows full data governance over consumer data according to corporate policy and demands. LeadsRx Privacy Studio is one of the first SaaS solutions that offers DCR capabilities natively.

"With marketing teams collecting more and more first-party data about their consumers, storing this information in ways that allow complete, corporate data-governance is essential," said AJ Brown, co-founder and CEO of LeadsRx. "Demands from consumers to protect their private information are growing, and architectures like LeadsRx Privacy Studio give enterprises this ability within the framework of SaaS."

Helping IT regain control of systems and meet corporate policies around data privacy, Data Clean Rooms provide reassurance that data is kept safe and not made available to nefarious actors. At the same time, proper use of data allows trusted players to provide personalized experiences customers want and expect.

In a recent survey that asked more than 2,000 Americans "Do you believe companies are using your personal information responsibly?", McKinsey & Company found only 33% of respondents said "yes," while 42% said "no," and 25% said "I don't know."

"Consumers have an expectation that the information they provide on websites and within apps is held safe and secure, but typical SaaS architectures co-mingle this data making it impossible to provide governance in accordance with the individual corporate policy of the companies collecting it," Brown said. "A new architecture is required to allow greater control over consumer privacy while maintaining the benefits of SaaS."

For more details on LeadsRx security and privacy, please click here.

Learn more about LeadsRx Privacy Studio, LeadsRx Attribution and LeadsRx Journey by visiting LeadsRx.com.

About LeadsRx

Guided by an ethos of impartiality, consumer privacy, and quality first-party data, LeadsRx provides SaaS software and services that has helped marketers at more than 5,000 global and local brands and agencies increase customer acquisition efficiency, grow lifetime value, and identify wasted ad spend. LeadsRx foundational technology is our unique Universal Pixel that has collected more than 2.0 billion personas for anonymous individuals - not personal identities, but the characteristics or demographic attributes that make up the type of customer or customers represented by their digital experience across devices, browsers, and apps. To learn more about how LeadsRx can support you in marketing transformation visit LeadsRx.com. Connect with LeadsRx on Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook.

For more information

Jeff Fishburn

Fishburn PR for LeadsRx

jeff@fishburnpr.com

SOURCE: LeadsRx

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669612/New-LeadsRx-Privacy-StudioTM-Expands-Support-to-Additional-Cloud-Service-Platforms-to-Create-Data-Clean-Rooms
WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Crude oil futures settled higher on Tuesday, recovering well from early losses, amid increasing signs of supply shortage and higher demand for oil. Oil prices are at multi-year highs with several countries switching to oil from gas amid power shortage. According to Goldman Sachs, switching to oil from gas may add 1 million barrels per day to oil demand. West Texas Intermediate Crude oil futures for December ended higher by $0.89 or about 1.1% at $84.65 a barrel. Brent crude futures are up $0.44 or 0.52% at $85.61 a barrel. According to a Reutuers report, Russia's Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak has said Russia expects OPEC+ to raise its output by 400,000 barrels per day at the Nov. 4 meeting, as previously agreed. Novak, who reportedly said, 'Demand (for oil) can decline as there is still uncertainty. We also see there is yet another pandemic wave spreading across the world,' added he expects oil demand to reach a pre-pandemic level by the end of next year. Traders, who are looking ahead to weekly oil reports from the American Petroleum Institute (API) and U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), are also awaiting the outcome of talks between Iran and Western Powers. The U.S. has said efforts are at 'crucial phase' to revive a 2015 nuclear agreement with Iran. The API's weekly oil report is due later today, while the EIA is scheduled to release its inventory data Wednesday morning. 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 / October 26, 2021 / Fabled Silver Gold Corp. ("Fabled" or the "Company") (TSXV:FCO)(OTCQB:FBSGF)(FSE:7NQ) is issuing the following news release to retract certain technical disclosures made in relation the Muskwa Copper Project.

The Company wishes to retract and clarify certain technical disclosure made in the following media:

a video (the "Video") posted to the Company's website and social media channels on August 11, 2021 entitled "Fabled Copper Update"; the Company's management information circular (the "Circular") dated September 27, 2021 in respect of its Annual General and Special Meeting to be held on October 28, 2021, and filed on the Company's profile on SEDAR on October 1, 2021; and the Company's 43-101 Technical Report (the "Technical Report") entitled "Technical Report on the Muskwa Project" dated July 6, 2021 and posted to the Company's SEDAR profile on October 1, 2021 and the SEDAR profile of it's wholly owned subsidiary, Fabled Copper Corp. on September 27, 2021.

Video

In the Video the Company made certain disclosures and statements regarding historical reserves and resources based upon a feasibility study conducted on a portion of the Muskwa Project in 1970 and speculated regarding the calculation of potential reserves and resources. Such statements are retracted by the Company and should not be relied upon. The Company has removed the video from its website and all social media channels. The Company confirms that the Muskwa Project is an early stage property without a Mineral Resource or Mineral Reserve, and as such, cannot support any feasibility study or preliminary economic assessment.

Information Circular and Technical Report

Portions of the Technical Report were copied to, and summarized in, the Information Circular. The Company wishes to retract and clarify certain statements made in the Technical Report and copied to the Circular.

the Company confirms that the Churchill Copper deposit is not considered economic and there is no current economic analysis done on any part of the Muskwa Project and retracts any statements that suggest otherwise. The Company wishes to retract all statements regarding historical estimates and historical mining studies. The Company confirms that the Muskwa Project is an early stage property without a Mineral Resource or Mineral Reserve, and as such, cannot support any feasibility study or preliminary economic assessment. The Company confirms that only historical development work has been done on the Davis-Keays Property and there is no current authority for attributing a value to such work and no work has been done to assess the current condition of such historical work. Any statement to the contrary is retracted.

The Company is preparing a revised Technical Report that it expects to file on SEDAR prior to the completion of its proposed listing on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the "Exchange"), which is expected to occur before December 31, 2021.

About Fabled Silver Gold Corp.

Fabled is focused on acquiring, exploring and operating properties that yield near-term metal production. The Company has an experienced management team with multiple years of involvement in mining and exploration in Mexico. The Company's mandate is to focus on acquiring precious metal properties in Mexico with blue-sky exploration potential.

The Company has entered into an agreement with Golden Minerals Company (NYSE American and TSX: AUMN) to acquire the Santa Maria Property, a high-grade silver-gold property situated in the center of the Mexican epithermal silver-gold belt. The belt has been recognized as a significant metallogenic province, which has reportedly produced more silver than any other equivalent area in the world.

About Fabled Copper Corp.

Fabled Copper is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company whose primary interest is in exploring the Muskwa copper Project located in Northern British Columbia.

The Company is in the process of spinning out Fabled Copper by distributing the shares it holds in Fabled Copper to the shareholders of the Company through a statutory plan of arrangement (the "Spin Out Transaction"). Concurrently Fabled Copper is applying to list its common shares on the Exchange following completion of the Spin Out Transaction.

Mr. Peter J. Hawley, President and C.E.O.

Fabled Silver Gold Corp.

Phone: (819) 316-0919

peter@fabledfco.com

For further information please contact:

info@fabledfco.com

The technical information contained in this news release has been approved by Peter J. Hawley, P.Geo. President and C.E.O. of Fabled, who is a Qualified Person as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulations Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) does accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Certain statements contained in this news release constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on plans, expectations and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to certain factors and assumptions, including, that the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change as a result of unforeseen events and that the Company obtains any required regulatory approvals.

Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Some of the risks and other factors that could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: impacts from the coronavirus or other epidemics, general economic conditions in Canada, the United States and globally; industry conditions, including fluctuations in commodity prices; governmental regulation of the mining industry, including environmental regulation; geological, technical and drilling problems; unanticipated operating events; competition for and/or inability to retain drilling rigs and other services; the availability of capital

on acceptable terms; the need to obtain required approvals from regulatory authorities; stock market volatility; volatility in market prices for commodities; liabilities inherent in mining operations; changes in tax laws and incentive programs relating to the mining industry; as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to the Company as set forth in the Company's continuous disclosure filings filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com . The Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

SOURCE: Fabled Silver Gold Corp.

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669763/Fabled-Retracts-Certain-Technical-Disclosure-in-Respect-of-the-Muskwa-Copper-Project
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Comstock Metals Ltd. (TSXV: CSL) ("CSL" or the "Company") announced today that certain officers and directors have been issued an aggregate of 1,100,000 options pursuant to the Company's option plan effective October 25, 2021 with each such option being exercisable into one common share at an exercise price of $0.09 at any time on or before the October 25, 2026. The options vest immediately upon grant.

About Comstock Metals Ltd.

Comstock Metals is advancing the Preview SW Gold Project, a resource-stage gold project in the La Ronge district of Saskatchewan. The Preview SW deposit hosts indicated mineral resources containing 158,300 ounces of gold (2.61 million tonnes grading 1.89 g/t Au) and inferred mineral resources containing 270,800 ounces of gold (5.70 million tonnes grading 1.48 g/t Au), both based on a 0.50 g/t Au cut-off grade1. During 2017 and 2018, Comstock completed diamond drilling campaigns targeting the Preview North zone and the Preview SW deposit comprising 24 holes totaling 4,700 metres. Several additional, relatively untested targets remain on the Property, including the A, B, C, and Clearwater zones (Map 2).







Map 2. Preview SW Property Map Showing Drilled Gold Zones

For further details, see the Company's website at www.comstock-metals.com

To view an enhanced version of Map 2, please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/7078/100921_70bf15a00420ebcb_001full.jpg

Qualified Persons

The scientific and technical information contained in this news release as it relates to the Preview SW Gold Project has been reviewed and approved by Kristopher J. Raffle, P.Geo. (BC) Principal and Consultant of APEX Geoscience Ltd. of Edmonton, AB and a "Qualified Person" as defined in National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects. Mr. Raffle verified the data disclosed which includes a review of the analytical and test data underlying the information and opinions contained therein.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release includes forward-looking information and statements, which may include, but are not limited to, information and statements regarding or inferring the future business, operations, financial performance, prospects, and other plans, intentions, expectations, estimates, and beliefs of the Company. Forward-looking information and statements involve and are subject to assumptions and known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause actual events, results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from future events, results, performance, and achievements expressed or implied by forward-looking information and statements herein. The assumptions on which the forward-looking statements contained herein rely include the ability to complete the proposed financing and receipt of regulatory approval. Although the Company believes that any forward-looking information and statements herein are reasonable, in light of the use of assumptions and the significant risks and uncertainties inherent in such information and statements, there can be no assurance that any such forward-looking information and statements will prove to be accurate, and accordingly readers are advised to rely on their own evaluation of such risks and uncertainties and should not place undue reliance upon such forward-looking information and statements. Any forward-looking information and statements herein are made as of the date hereof, and except as required by applicable laws, the Company assumes no obligation and disclaims any intention to update or revise any forward-looking information and statements herein or to update the reasons that actual events or results could or do differ from those projected in any forward looking information and statements herein, whether as a result of new information, future events or results, or otherwise, except as required by applicable laws.

For more information about Comstock Metals Ltd., please refer to Comstock Metals' website at www.comstock-metals.com or contact:

Steven H. Goldman

President, CEO and Director

COMSTOCK METALS LTD.

Cell Phone: (416) 917-1533

Email: s.goldman@goldmanhine.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.

1 The Company has filed on SEDAR the 43-101 Technical Report, Preview SW Gold Project, La Ronge, Saskatchewan, prepared for Comstock Metals Ltd. by Ronald G. Simpson, P.Geo., Geosim Services Inc. Effective date September 27, 2016.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100921
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / The Power Play by The Market Herald has announced the release of new interviews with Datametrex, Nextech AR, i3 Energy PLC, and Aquarius AI discussing their latest press releases.

The Power Play by The Market Herald provides investors with a quick snapshot of what they need to know about the company's latest press release through exclusive insights and interviews with company executives.

Datametrex (TSXV:DM)(OTCQB:DTMXF) signs $950K contract with Samsung, Shinhan Financial Group, and Lotte

Datametrex AI has received purchase orders from Lotte Data Communication Co., Samsung Electronics Co., and the Shinhan Financial Group. The orders from Samsung and Shinhan are for an A.I.-powered task automation system designed to streamline and optimize banking system operations called JobMind. Marshall Gunter, CEO of Datametrex sat down with Caroline Egan to discuss the news.

For the full interview with Marshall Gunter and to learn more about Datametrex's recent announcement, click here.

Nextech AR (CSE:NTAR)(OTCQB:NEXCF) partners with Asian ecommerce aggregators

Nextech AR Solutions has announced that multiple ecommerce aggregators are using Threedy.ai, the company's AR for ecomerce solution. Evan Gappelberg, CEO of Nextech AR, spoke with Caroline Egan to discuss the partnerships and the opportunities that lie ahead.

For the full interview with Evan Gappelberg and to learn more about Nextech AR's recent announcement, click here.

i3 Energy PLC (TSX:ITE) provides Q3 updates

i3 Energy PLC has released its operational and financial highlights for Q3 2021. Majid Shafiq sat down with Caroline Egan to discuss the highlights and the future of the company. i3 Energy is an independent oil and gas company dedicated to responsible corporate practices and the environment.

For the full interview with Majid Shafiq and to learn more about i3 Energy's plans for future growth, click here.

Aquarius AI (CSE:AQUA) partners with Luxor Technology Corporation

Aquarius AI has entered into a managed service agreement with Luxor Technology Corporation. Luxor will manage Aquarius AI's mining hardware and carbon-neutral power procurement and it will provide data centre support services. Owen Sagness, Director of Operations at Aquarius AI sat down with Caroline Egan to discuss the partnership.

For the full interview with Owen Sagness and to learn more about Aquarius AI's partnership with Luxor, click here.

Interviews for The Power Play by The Market Herald are released daily. To learn more about the companies featured in The Power Play or to explore our other interviews visit The Power Play by The Market Herald.

About The Market Herald

The Market Herald Canada is the leading source of authoritative breaking stock market news for self-directed investors. Our team of Canadian markets reporters, editors and technologists covers the entire listed company universe in Canada. We cover over 3,985 businesses, their people, their investors, and their customers. We write the stories that move the Canadian capital markets.

Contact Information:

The Market Herald

Brianna Anthony

brianna.anthony@themarketherald.ca

themarketherald.ca

SOURCE: The Market Herald

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669780/The-Power-Play-by-The-Market-Herald-Releases-New-Interviews-with-Datametrex-Nextech-AR-i3-Energy-PLC-and-Aquarius-AI-Discussing-Their-Latest-News
Kolkata, India--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - AVNRich is announcing an upcoming presale which will start on November 1st, 2021. While preparing for the presale, AVNRich also announces the release of its audit report and KYC review by Solidproof.





AVNRich Presale





AVNRich is a Defi network launched in 2019 to provide its investors with e-commerce shopping opportunities and other rewarding opportunities. This network recently decided to relaunch and leverage blockchain in delivering its services. It combines the power of PayPal, blockchain, and crypto to provide shopping and e-commerce services reliably.

Based in India, this network creates a marketplace where hundreds of vendors can sell thousands of products. The network plans to provide many rewarding opportunities for the average investor. They will offer staking, farming, referral programs, and other options to create passive incomes.

Details of the Presale

This Defi network is announcing a presale event that will be occurring from November 1st. The mission is to sell its AVNRich token and gain community support. According to their whitepaper, the AVNRich network has a total supply of 270 million minted tokens.

Out of the 270 million tokens, about 30% will be spent in this upcoming Presale. The presale details are as follows;

 Token symbol-AVN

 Number- 81 million tokens. No lockup

 Contract Address: 0xbf151f63d8d1287db5fc7a3bc104a9c38124cdeb

 Liquidity in exchanges: 21%(56.7 million tokens) No lock up

AVNRich apportions the rest of the tokens properly for the sustainability of this platform. Here's how;

 15% for foundation

 10% product and marketing

 10% ecosystem and partnerships

 10% team, 2% for shop rewards

 1% for advisors

 0.94% for charities

 0.06% for Swaps

Of course, the AVN token will be the flagship token of this ecosystem. It helps in powering the services of this network. One of its primary use cases will be staking and rewards farming. Accordingly, the staking and farming will be auto-minted as time goes.

Announcing KYC and Contract Audit

As they prepare to go for the presale, this network is also announcing their audit and KYC reviews already done. Techrate smart contract auditors were the first to audit the project's smart contracts. TechRate did not find any severe issues on the network.

Later, Solidproof blockchain auditors checked the smart contracts of the AVNRich network. They released their smart audit report, which did not show any severe problems in the code.

Furthermore, to ensure the network does not have money laundering connections, Solidproof conducted a KYC scan of the team. Solidproof reviewed the project and the team. They concluded that this network does not run any money fraud issues.

Taking audits from two networks shows how committed AVNRich is to growth. Their transparency with the audit and KYC reports also shows the team's commitment to its success.

Based on Binance Smart Chain

Another exciting thing about this network is its choice of smart chain host. Of course, there are multiple smart contract blockchains today, including Ethereum, BSC, and Cardano. Ethereum, which has been the largest, has been seeing an increase in the number of issues. Speed, scalability, and gas charges are among the problems.

However, being a shopping and E-commerce network, AVNRich had to look for a network that could offer the best fees and better speed and scale. Hence, AVNRich bases its services in the Binance smart chain by use of the AVN BEP-20 token.

A Developing Network

AVNRich is an Indian-based DeFi network that aims to bridge payment platforms with businesses via blockchain. It came into the financial scene in 2019 to enable merchants to sell their products in an extensive marketplace. For more information on the AVNRich, follow the platform's social pages below.

AVNRich introduction: https://youtu.be/uCkEELi6s2I

Telegram: https://t.me/AVNRich_Chat

Twitter: https://twitter.com/avnrich

Facebook: http://Fb.me/avnrich

Medium: https://medium.com/@avnrich

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/avnrich-company

Github: https://github.com/AvnrichDefi

Instagram: https://instagram.com/avnrich?igshid=t1y8ahkylnc7

Media Contact -

Name - Farah Islam

Company Name - AVNRich Pvt Ltd.

Email - support@avnrich.shop

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100924
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Solis Minerals Ltd. (TSXV: SLMN) (OTC: WMRSF) ("Solis" or "the Company"), is pleased to provide an update on its proposed listing on the Australian Securities Exchange. The Company also announces plans to substantially expand its first ever drill program at the 100%-optioned Mostazal Project from a total 2,500 metres of drilling [see news release dated September 16th, 2021] to a total 4,000 metres of drilling.

The Mostazal Project is located within the Domeyko Fault-the main structural control for some of the world's largest and most productive copper mines including Chuquicamata and Escondida-and 40 kilometres south of Codelco's El Salvador Mine.*

The objectives of the expanded drill program are three-fold:

To test multiple porphyry targets (interpreted feeders) beneath known copper mineralization at surface, To test the extent of known copper mineralization in a near-surface sequence of copper-rich stratified mantos lenses; and To test additional manto and porphyry targets identified in geochemical and geophysical surveys and in outcrop.

The Company expects to mobilize to the field this December, with drilling expected to commence as soon as practicable upon successful completion of the ASX listing, which is expected to be completed in early to mid December 2021.

Given the larger scale of the drill program, the field budget has been increased from $1.5m to $2.2m. Priority targets in the Mostazal West and Central zones (see figure 1) will test high chargeability features beneath and immediately adjacent to previously identified mineralization encountered in shallow drilling. These intercepts included:

DDA-MZ-08: 16m @ 1.48% Cu from 56m

DDH-MZ-10: 13m @ 1.21% Cu from 91m

DDA-MZ-13: 8m @ 1.83% Cu from 55m

DDA-MZ-30: 16m @ 1.27% Cu from 74m

DDA-MZ-32: 11m @ 2.48% Cu from 84m

In addition to testing the West and Central Zones, the Company plans to drill test the northern target area [Norte] located approximately 2 kilometres northeast of the Central Zone. The objective is to test the occurrence of manto within an area of structurally controlled high grade Cu-Au outcrop.





Figure 1



To view an enhanced version of Figure 1 please visit:

https://orders.newsfilecorp.com/files/1134/100929_7b97c5f7345e5b03_002full.jpg

ASX Listing and Concurrent Financing

Solis expects to lodge its prospectus with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) during the first week of November 2021 in relation to its proposed dual listing on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX).

Under the prospectus, the Company proposes to raise a minimum of AUD$4 million and a maximum of AUD$6 million (in each case, before costs), by the issue of Chess depositary interests (CDIs) over fully paid ordinary shares in the capital of the Company. A minimum of 20 million CDIs and a maximum of 30 million CDIs will be issued, at an issue price of AUD$0.20 per CDI. The CDIs will be issued at a ratio of one CDI for one share. Each CDI will carry with it a half-option to acquire an additional CDI at an exercise price of AUD$0.30 for a period of two-years.

Jason Cubitt, President and CEO of Solis, commented;

"We're pleased to have the financial support of Euroz Hartleys. The Mostazal project presents multiple targets and geological settings, and management strongly believes that this expanded budget will provide the coverage necessary to test our model of a copper-rich porphyry system feeding mineralization at surface, and put the company in a strong position for discovery."

ABOUT EUROZ HARTLEYS

Euroz Hartleys Limited ("Euroz Hartleys") is a diversified financial services company, providing a range of financial services including stockbroking, corporate finance, and wealth management. The firm represents the largest institutional desk in Australia with a specific focus on the natural resource sector and boasts private wealth funds-under-management in excess of $2.6B.

ABOUT SOLIS MINERALS

Solis Minerals is a Latin American focused mining exploration company. The Company is earning into a 100% interest in the Mostazal copper project in Chile's Atacama Desert, one of the world's premier copper production jurisdictions. The Company also holds a 100% interest in a package of highly prospective IOCG and porphyry copper projects in southwestern Peru within the country's prolific coastal copper belt - source of nearly half of Peru's copper production.

Derrick Strickland, P. Geo. (1000315), is a qualified person and has reviewed and approved the technical content of this news release. * The qualified person has been unable to verify the information on the adjacent properties. Mineralization hosted on adjacent and/or nearby and/or geologically similar properties is not necessarily indicative of mineralization hosted on the company property.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Jason Cubitt

President and Chief Executive Officer

Solis Minerals Ltd.

jcubitt@solisminerals.com

solisminerals.com

Telephone: (604) 209-1658

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as the term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy of accuracy of this news release.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains certain forward-looking statements, which relate to future events or future performance and reflect management's current expectations and assumptions. Such forward-looking statements reflect management's current beliefs and are based on assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company. Readers are cautioned that these forward-looking statements are neither promises nor guarantees, and are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ materially from those expected including, but not limited to, market conditions, availability of financing, actual results of the Company's exploration and other activities, environmental risks, future metal prices, operating risks, accidents, labor issues, delays in obtaining governmental approvals and permits, and other risks in the mining industry. All the forward-looking statements made in this news release are qualified by these cautionary statements and those in our continuous disclosure filings available on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise them to reflect new events or circumstances save as required by applicable law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100929
DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Compressor Controls Corporation has been awarded a new contract from Aker Solutions ASA on a groundbreaking project: compressor control technology and engineering support for natural gas compression on the seabed. This results in increased cost-efficiency and lower carbon footprint versus a traditional topside platform solution.

CCC will implement its solution as part of the Chevron-operated Jansz-Io Compression (J-IC) Project. Aker, the Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) contractor for J-IC's subsea compression system, chose CCC for its experience, engineering expertise and global support capabilities.

"We at CCC are proud to have been selected for this important project," said Ed Maslak, the company's president. "It will be technically challenging, but our world-class engineers will deliver while maintaining our core values of reliability, efficiency and safety."

This endeavor requires highly dependable compressor control nearly 1,400 meters below the surface of the Indian Ocean. CCC looks forward to demonstrating how it can solve the toughest turbomachinery challenges on time and on budget.

To learn more about CCC's capabilities, visit www.cccglobal.com or email solutions@cccglobal.com.

ABOUT CCC

Compressor Controls Corporation is the world's most trusted name in turbomachinery control solutions. With over four decades of operational experience across more than 14,000 installations around the globe, CCC is the company the upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas industry turns to for reliable, efficient and safe controls.

Media Contact

Charanya Sriram

csriram@hexagroup.com
Fort Worth, TX, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unity Unlimited announced that Sable Brands LLC plans to build the National Juneteenth Museum in Fort Worth, TX as part of a mixed-use development that will help revitalize the city's Historic Southside neighborhood. Declared a federal holiday on June 17, 2021 when President Joe Biden signed the law with Ms. Opal Lee by his side, Juneteenth, or, "the 19th of June" has sparked celebrations worldwide. The gravity of Juneteenth commemorates freedom for the enslaved via the abolition of slavery in the United States.

Ms. Lee is affectionately known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth" and has been leading the charge to see the National Juneteenth Museum become a reality. "To have lived long enough to see my walking and talking make an impact is one thing, but to know that a state of the art museum that will house the actual pen that President Biden used to sign the bill and many other exhibits is coming to pass as well...I could do my holy dance again"! The National Juneteenth Museum will be erected on land that currently houses Lee's Fort Worth Juneteenth Museum that has served the community for nearly two decades and was a production location in the feature film, Miss Juneteenth.

As the epicenter for the preservation of Juneteenth history and center for discussions about freedom, the Museum will host events and exhibits that foster continued conversation on the global significance of freedom and the celebration of Juneteenth worldwide. The Museum will also host seminars and lectures of renowned authorities on topics that uncover the truth of historical perspectives of freedom.

The Museum will be led by a collaboration of activists, researchers, historians and everyday people that understand the influence of history on the trajectory of the human experience. Additionally, it will educate guests on the legacy and experiences of the enslaved and provide factual narratives about people that overcame the trials and hardships of oppression. Exploration of the richness of the American tapestry and global canvas is the ultimate goal of the museum's directors.

Fort Worth Mayor, Mattie Parker, is excited to add this concept to an already-renowned collection of world- class museums housed in the city. "For decades, Juneteenth has been part of the fabric of our city, and this museum is a welcome addition to its incredible legacy".

For press inquiries on the National Juneteenth Museum, please contact us at info@freedom619.org.

###

About Ms. Opal Lee

Ms. Opal is the oldest living board member of the National Juneteenth Observance Foundation that was founded and led by the late Dr. Ronald Myers, Sr., whose initiative is for Juneteenth to become a national holiday. To bring awareness to the cause, she started Opal's Walk 2 DC campaign in 2016, where she walked 2.5 miles to symbolize the 2.5 years that it took for slaves in Texas to know that they were free. Ms. Opal launched a petition to make Juneteenth a national holiday on Change.org, and in September 2020 delivered the 1.5 million signatures to Congress. Ms. Opal believes that freedom should be celebrated from the 19th of June to the 4th of July. Head to https://adobe.ly/3hs3jg0for more.

About Sable Brands, LLC

Sable Brands is a Fort Worth based public affairs and marketing firm whose mission is to catalyze the convergence of culture, collaboration, and commerce. For more information, email info@thesablegroup.org

Attachment
Diamond Estates adds Andrew Howard to its executive team

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Inc. (TSXV: DWS) ("Diamond Estates" or "the Company") has announced that Andrew Howard has joined the executive team of the Company as Executive Vice President - Estate Wines, and has been issued incentive stock options by the Company. Andrew was previously President of the Equity Wine Group, which was acquired by Diamond Estates on October 6, 2021.

"I am very pleased that Andrew has accepted our offer to join Diamond Estates and continue the journey he began eleven years ago when he and other investors founded the Equity Wine Group," stated Murray Souter, President & CEO of Diamond. "Andrew's passion for Canadian wines is well known and his skills and capabilities will add greatly to the current and future success of our estate wines division."

Andrew has been involved with Equity Wine Group, owners of Creekside Estates and Queenston Mile Vineyards, from its inception, and has led the organization through its growth as a leading VQA company. Andrew has an extensive and relevant background for this role having also been a senior executive with Arterra, Labatt and Pepsi prior to founding the Equity Wine Group. Andrew is well known in the industry for his commitment to Ontario wines and will add greatly to the Company's success.

"I am pleased and excited to join Diamond Estates at the opening of this important chapter," stated Andrew Howard. "Over the course of the past several months, I have met with great people and have seen significant potential for our business together. The acquisition will leverage Diamond's scale and scope to move those businesses to the next level and the combined company has greater capability than either one on its own."

Andrew has also been granted 1,500,000 incentive stock options at a strike price of $0.18 per share. Diamond Estates considers stock options to be an important incentive to align its management team with the objective of building shareholder value over the long term. Each option is exercisable for the purchase of one common share for up to five years from the date of issuance, at which time they expire. The options are being issued under the Company's existing option program and vest at the rate of 25% on each anniversary of their issuance date.

"These option grants reflect the key role being performed by Andrew in the successful execution of Diamond Estates' strategic plan," said Murray Souter. "Our greatest asset is our people, and the Board of Directors is committed to ensuring that management's success is aligned with that of shareholders."

The Company also announces today that it has issued deferred share units ("DSUs") to its directors. Pursuant to the Company's DSU plan, an aggregate of 177,734 DSUs have been issued by the Company to non-executive directors. The DSUs are to be settled in common shares of the Company when the director retires from all positions with the Company.

About Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Inc.

Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Inc. is a producer of high-quality wines and a sales agent for over 120 beverage alcohol brands across Canada. The Company operates four wineries, three in Ontario and one in British Columbia, that produce predominantly VQA wines under such well-known brand names as 20 Bees, Creekside, EastDell, Lakeview Cellars, Queenston Mile, Dan Aykroyd, Shiny Apple Cider, Rood Apples Cider, Fresh, Proud Pour, Red Tractor, Seasons, Serenity, and Backyard Vineyards.

Through its commercial division, Trajectory Beverage Partners ("TBP"), the Company is the sales agent for many leading international brands in all regions of the country as well as being a distributor in the western provinces. These recognizable brands include Josh wines from California, Fat Bastard and Andre Lurton wines from France, Kaiken wines from Argentina, Blue Nun wines from Germany, Francois Lurton wines from France and Argentina, Felix Solis wines from Spain, Waterloo Brewing from Canada, Landshark Lager from the USA, Marston's beers from England, Edinburgh Gin from Scotland, Tamdhu, Glengoyne and Smokehead single-malt Scotch whiskies, Barcelo Rum from the Dominican Republic, C.K. Mondavi & Family wines including Charles Krug from Napa, Bols Vodka from Amsterdam, Koyle Family Wines from Chile, Pearse Lyons whiskies and gins from Ireland, and Fontana di Papa wines from Italy.

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.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements. Often, but not always, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "estimates", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Diamond Estates Wines and Spirits Inc. to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Actual results and developments are likely to differ, and may differ materially, from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this press release. Such forward-looking statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to: the economy generally; consumer interest in the services and products of the Company; financing; competition; and anticipated and unanticipated costs. While the Company acknowledges that subsequent events and developments may cause its views to change, the Company specifically disclaims any obligation to update these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing the views of the Company as of any date subsequent to the date of this press release. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that 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 forward-looking statements.

For more information, please contact:

J. Murray Souter

President & CEO

Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Inc.

jmurraysouter@diamondwines.com

Ryan Conte, CPA, CA, CBV

CFO

Diamond Estates Wines & Spirits Inc.

rconte@diamondwines.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100925


SEATTLE (dpa-AFX) - Amazon (AMZN) founder and former CEO Jeff Bezos's space infrastructure and tourism company, is planning to make a space station next, named the Orbital Reef. Space startup, Sierra Space is going to partner with Blue Origin in the project.



While the heads of the companies involved denied talking about any estimates for making such an extraordinary piece of engineering, experts believe the expense could exceed tens of billions. The two companies are expected to share the cost of the feat while Boeing is rumored to design the research module. The companies are also expecting to tie NASA in the agreement as the tenants.



Presently, the most expensive piece of engineering, the International Space Station is nearing its retirement after almost 20 years in service. The Orbital Reef will also have a similar inner volume as the ISS. However, there are doubts over the project as Blue Origin is yet to manage a single orbital flight with most of its recent flights taking the tourists to the lower orbitals of the planet and then coming back. The company will have to perform multiple successful take-offs into orbit before making an attempt to launch the space station.



It is also understood that Blue Origin's New Glenn will be the carrier spacecraft for the matter. New Glenn is yet to make its maiden flight out of the base and is scheduled to fly in late 2022. During the announcement for the Orbital Reef, multiple other space companies also pitched in with their ideas. Genesis, one such company is building a robotic pod that will allow the astronauts to perform spacewalks a lot easier and perform operations with the help of robotic arms.



RedWire is concentrating on making a 3D printer that will be operational in space. The project is supposed to start by the end of 2022. Other companies interested in the project are Nanoracks and Axiom.



Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX

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LAGOS, NIGERIA / ACCESSWIRE / October 26, 2021 / Jumia Technologies AG (NYSE:JMIA), ("Jumia"), today announced that it will release its results for the quarter ended September 30, 2021 before the U.S. market opens on Tuesday, November 16, 2021.

Management will host a conference call at 8:30 a.m. US Eastern Time on the same day.

Details of the conference call are as follows:

US Dial-in (Toll Free): 888-506-0062

International Dial-in: 973-528-0011

United Kingdom Toll Free: 0800 520 0845

Entry Code: 464174

A live webcast of the earnings conference call can be accessed on the Jumia Investor Relations website: https://investor.jumia.com/

An archived webcast will be available following the call.

Please visit the Investor Relations website to view the press release and accompanying slides ahead of the conference call.

About Jumia

Jumia is the leading pan-African e-commerce platform, present across 11 countries in Africa. Its mission is to improve the quality of everyday life in Africa by leveraging technology to deliver innovative, convenient and affordable online services to consumers, while helping businesses grow as they use Jumia's platform to better reach and serve consumers.

The Jumia platform consists of a marketplace, which connects sellers with consumers, a logistics service, which enables the shipment and delivery of packages from sellers to consumers, and a payment service, which facilitates transactions among participants active on the Jumia platform in selected markets.

On the marketplace, more than 110,000 sellers offer a broad range of goods and services.

Jumia Logistics facilitates the delivery of goods in a convenient and reliable way, leveraging an extensive network of third-party logistics service providers, seamlessly integrated through the Jumia proprietary technology platform.

JumiaPay offers a safe and easy solution to facilitate online payment transactions on the Jumia platform, with the intention of integrating additional financial services in the future.

Contacts

Safae Damir

Head of Investor Relations

investor-relations@jumia.com

Abdesslam Benzitouni

Head of PR and Communications

press@jumia.com

SOURCE: Jumia Technologies AG

View source version on accesswire.com:https://www.accesswire.com/669494/Jumia-to-Announce-Third-Quarter-2021-Results-on-November-16-2021
Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - TURN8 Partners is pleased to sweep the category for multi-strategy hedge funds by taking home both the 3-year and 5-year Sharpe Ratio awards.

"I am pleased that TURN8 has been named to this prestigious list for a second year in a row, especially as it comes following a year of unprecedented challenges and changes in the market. The Sharpe ratio is the measure of risk-adjusted return of a financial portfolio, which means that a portfolio with a higher Sharpe ratio is considered superior relative to its peers," said Craig McFadzean, President & Chief Investment Officer TURN8 Partners. "Our focus is on managing risk and protecting capital in market downturns, while positioning our portfolios for strong, stable growth during upswings. We achieve this for each of our clients through our innovative investment process and customized exposure to our three key strategies - equity, alternatives and fixed income."

The 2021 Canadian Hedge Fund Awards is the highest honour in Canada's hedge fund industry. The awards are based solely on quantitative performance data, as there is no nomination process or subjective assessment in identifying the winning hedge funds. The Canadian Hedge Fund Awards help investors identify the most exceptional hedge funds, recognizing winners in 5 categories as well as the Overall Best 2021 Canadian Hedge Fund. A total of 226 Canadian Hedge Funds were included in the 2021 CHFA program. This year's winners were announced on October 19, 2021.

About TURN8 Partners

TURN8 Partners is a world-class wealth management firm that provides a modern and institutional style approach to investing focussed on reducing volatility and enhancing overall portfolio return so clients can have peace of mind. Since 2012, TURN8 Partners has been creating customized investment portfolios catering to each client's risk profile and financial objectives through a nimble, tactical, and comprehensive approach to portfolio management.

Contact:

Craig McFadzean, MBA, CFA

President & Chief Investment Officer

(514) 600-1466

info@turn8partners.com

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100956
(All amounts in US$ unless otherwise specified)

Capstone Mining Corp. ("Capstone" or the "Company") (TSX:CS) today announced production and financial results for the three ("Q3 2021") and nine months ("2021 YTD") ended September 30, 2021. Consolidated copper production totaled 44.4 million pounds at C1 cash costs1 of $1.96 per payable pound of copper produced. Link HERE for Capstone's Q3 2021 management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") and financial statements and HERE for the webcast presentation.

Darren Pylot, President and CEO of Capstone commented, "This year Pinto Valley Mine and the communities nearby have faced wildfires and floods and I'm proud of Capstone's contribution in emergency relief efforts that made a real difference. Despite extreme conditions the Mine is still on track to meet annual guidance which is a testament to the leadership and overall talent at Pinto Valley, enabled by the optimization investments we have made over the past few years. Capstone is committed to climate change action to build resilient operations and stronger communities. Our ESG Strategy and Responsible Sourcing Project will be key to achieve long-term sustainability and I look forward to unveiling them in 2022."

Brad Mercer, SVP COO added, "Severe floods in July August in Arizona resulted from heavy rains on terrain burned clean by wildfires just weeks prior. While the first half of the quarter saw significantly reduced mining and milling rates due to the extreme wet conditions, from September to present the operation has averaged over 60,000 tonnes per day throughput boosted by the completion of our PV3 Optimization project". Mr. Mercer continued, "Once again I'm very pleased with our Cozamin Mine performance. We exceeded guidance by delivering low cost, record production that distinguishes this operation as a first quartile asset."

OPERATIONAL FINANCIAL OVERVIEW

Cash and short-term investments grew by $36.7 million to $208.2 million during the three months ending September 30, 2021. The Company's total available liquidity 1 was $433.2 million with nil long-term debt. The balance sheet was enhanced by continued strong operating cash flow generation during Q3 2021.

was $433.2 million with nil long-term debt. The balance sheet was enhanced by continued strong operating cash flow generation during Q3 2021. Operating cash flow before changes in working capital 1 of $67.1 million in Q3 2021 driven by strong revenue in a plus $4 copper environment. Operating cash flow and earnings were negatively impacted by $10.0 million of realized loss on provisional price adjustments plus lag in sales timing of 3.3 million pounds of copper, impact of approximately $6 million after-tax during the quarter.

of $67.1 million in Q3 2021 driven by strong revenue in a plus $4 copper environment. Operating cash flow and earnings were negatively impacted by $10.0 million of realized loss on provisional price adjustments plus lag in sales timing of 3.3 million pounds of copper, impact of approximately $6 million after-tax during the quarter. Net income of $35.0 million, or $0.09 per share for Q3 2021. Adjusted net income 1 of $35.3 million or $0.09 per share.

of $35.3 million or $0.09 per share. Adjusted EBITDA 1 for Q3 2021 of $72.3 million and 2021 YTD of $318.9 million. Adjusted EBITDA 1 is reflective of Capstone's strong operational performance and financial leverage of the Company's EBITDA 1 in a robust copper price environment.

for Q3 2021 of $72.3 million and 2021 YTD of $318.9 million. Adjusted EBITDA is reflective of Capstone's strong operational performance and financial leverage of the Company's EBITDA in a robust copper price environment. Consolidated copper production of 44.4 million pounds at C1 cash costs 1 of $1.96 per payable pound of copper produced. Consolidated copper production for 2021 YTD of 135.5 million pounds at C1 cash costs 1 of $1.85 per payable pound of copper produced are on track with 2021 guidance.

of $1.96 per payable pound of copper produced. Consolidated copper production for 2021 YTD of 135.5 million pounds at C1 cash costs of $1.85 per payable pound of copper produced are on track with 2021 guidance. Cozamin Mine achieved another record quarterly copper production of 14.1 million pounds at $0.93 per payable pound of copper produced and attained targeted new run rate of 3,854 tpd. Q3 2021 production was 33% higher than in Q3 2020 following commissioning of the Calicanto one-way ramp in Q1 2021.

Pinto Valley Mine quarterly production and C1 cash costs 1 were negatively impacted by an estimated 10% to 30.3 million pounds at $2.44 per payable pound produced by heavy monsoon rains in July and August causing lower mining and milling rates. While the first half of the quarter saw extreme wet conditions, from September to present the Operation has averaged over 60,000 tonnes per day ("tpd") upon completion of the PV3 optimization work.

were negatively impacted by an estimated 10% to 30.3 million pounds at $2.44 per payable pound produced by heavy monsoon rains in July and August causing lower mining and milling rates. While the first half of the quarter saw extreme wet conditions, from September to present the Operation has averaged over 60,000 tonnes per day ("tpd") upon completion of the PV3 optimization work. There remains strong interest in Santo Domingo and discussions are advancing well. The Santo Domingo project is a very attractive project and it retains a Decree Law 600 ("DL 600") Tax Invariability Agreement which is expected to protect the project from any potential mining royalty tax changes for the majority of the current mineral reserve.

1 This is an alternative performance measure; please see "Alternative Performance Measures" at the end of this release.

Operational Overview

Refer to Capstone's Q3 2021 MD&A and Financial Statements for detailed operating results.

Q3 2021 Q3 2020 2021 YTD 2020 YTD Copper production (million pounds) Pinto Valley 30.3 27.9 96.2 84.9 Cozamin 14.1 10.6 39.3 27.6 Total 44.4 38.5 135.5 112.5 Copper sales Copper sold (million pounds) 39.6 39.8 131.9 108.1 Realized copper price ($/lb.) 4.15 3.13 4.35 2.75 C1 cash costs1($/lb.) produced Pinto Valley 2.44 2.38 2.22 2.30 Cozamin 0.93 0.36 0.95 0.71 Consolidated 1.96 1.82 1.85 1.91

Consolidated

Q3 2021 production was 15% higher than Q3 2020 mainly as a result of record copper production at Cozamin driven by maximizing mill throughput due to successful one-way ramp utilization and higher mine grades at both mines.

2021 YTD consolidated production of 135.5 million pounds of copper is on track with full year guidance of 175 to 190 million pounds of copper. The production results demonstrate a 20% growth compared to prior year, benefiting from Cozamin achieving the new higher run rates (3,854 tpd) and benefits of PV3 Optimization projects at Pinto Valley. The increase in production was the main driver for the $0.06 per payable pound decrease in C1 cash costs1 in 2021 YTD compared to 2020 YTD. 2021 YTD C1 cash costs1 are also on track with annual guidance of $1.75 to $1.90 per payable pound.

Pinto Valley Mine

Q3 2021 production was higher than the same period last year primarily on higher grades Q3 2021 (0.33% versus 0.31% in Q3 2020) as a result of mine sequencing and an increase in cut off grade to the mill, sending the lower grade ore to leach. Pinto Valley production during Q3 2021 was lower than expected due to severe monsoon rainstorms in July and August. Extreme wet conditions led to reduced mining and mill throughput rates while lightning limited outdoor activities which prolonged the completion of scheduled maintenance work. In August, record precipitation caused erosion of burnt terrain resulting in unprecedented floods and mud slides that affected neighbouring communities in the Globe-Miami area. Pinto Valley workers were involved in emergency evacuation and land remediation efforts, which altered work schedules during August. PV3 optimization work is now complete and the mine achieved rates of 60,000 tpd in September and similar throughput rates in October.

Q3 2021 sales were impacted by buildup of copper concentrate inventory at Pinto Valley due to the strong production levels in the month of September 2021.

Ramp up of production at the Molybdenum plant at Pinto Valley is progressing and expected to be completed during Q4 2021, improving by-product credits.

2021 YTD production increased by 13% compared to the same period last year due to higher head grades for 2021 YTD (0.34% versus 0.30% in 2020 YTD) and improved flotation plant recovery performance (87.3% versus 84.5% in 2020 YTD).

C1 cash costs1 of $2.44 per payable pound in Q3 2021 were higher than Q3 2020 mainly due to lower capitalized stripping costs of $0.11 per pound during the quarter ($2.4 million versus $5.1 million in Q3 2020) and lower by-product credits on gold, partially offset by higher Q3 2021 production compared to Q3 2020.

A decrease in 2021 YTD C1 cash cost1 by $0.08 per payable pound was primarily attributed to higher production compared to the same period last year.

Cozamin Mine

Production in Q3 2021 was 33% higher than the same period last year and a record production quarter for Cozamin. Higher copper production was primarily due to the successful utilization of the Calicanto one-way ramp which increased mill rates from 3,090 tpd in Q3 2020 to 3,854 tpd in Q3 2021. In addition, with the optimized technical report, the mine plan is delivering significantly higher mine grades (1.87% in Q3 2021 versus 1.77% in Q3 2020) from the copper rich San Jose and Calicanto zones.

2021 YTD production increased by 42% compared to the same period last year mainly due to higher mill throughput (3,678 tpd versus 2,903 tpd in 2020 YTD) and head grades (1.84% versus 1.65% in 2020 YTD).

C1 cash costs1 in Q3 2021 were higher than the same period last year due to $0.29 per payable pound impact of the Cozamin Silver Stream with Wheaton Precious Metals Corp. ("Wheaton") for 50% of the silver sales and higher production cost attributed to higher operating development meters executed.

C1 cash costs1 in 2021 YTD were higher than the same period last year due to $0.30 per payable pound impact of the Cozamin Silver Stream with Wheaton for 50% of the silver sales. The cost per payable pound impact of the Cozamin Silver Stream was partially offset by higher production.

Financial Overview

Refer to Capstone's Q3 2021 MD&A and Financial Statements for detailed financial results.

Q3 2021 Q3 2020 2021 YTD 2020 YTD Revenue($ millions) 165.4 130.5 578.9 305.6 Net income (loss) ($ millions) 35.0 2.3 211.5 (15.3) Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders ($ millions) 35.0 2.4 185.4 (15.1) Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders per common share basic ($) 0.09 0.01 0.46 (0.04) Net income (loss) attributable to shareholders per common share diluted ($) 0.08 0.01 0.45 (0.04) Adjusted net income (loss)1($ millions) 35.3 9.5 168.4 (8.7) Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to shareholders1($ millions) 35.3 9.5 168.4 (8.5) Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to shareholders per common share basic1 0.09 0.02 0.42 (0.02) Adjusted net income (loss) attributable to shareholders per common share diluted1 0.09 0.02 0.41 (0.02) Adjusted EBITDA1($ millions) 72.3 51.6 318.9 75.7 Cash flow from operating activities2($ millions) 70.0 27.7 458.9 79.8 Cash flow from operating activities per common share1 basic ($) 0.17 0.07 1.13 0.20 Operating cash flow before changes in working capital1,2($ millions) 67.1 44.9 451.6 65.6 Operating cash flow before changes in working capital per common share1 basic ($) 0.16 0.11 1.11 0.17

September 30,

2021 December 31,

2020 Total assets ($ millions) 1,637.6 1,391.6 Long term debt (excluding financing fees) ($ millions) 184.9 Total non-current financial liabilities ($ millions) 38.0 183.6 Total non-current liabilities ($ millions) 462.2 408.5 Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments ($ millions) 208.2 60.0 Net cash/(debt)1 ($ millions) 208.2 (124.9) 2 2021 YTD includes $180.0 million silver and gold stream proceeds

CORPORATE UPDATE

PV3 Optimization Update

PV3 Optimization Phase 1 work was completed in 2020. Phase 1 work included improved blast fragmentation processes, installation of a new secondary crusher and screen decks as well as a new mill shell. As a result, Pinto Valley was able to reliably achieve throughput of 57,000 tpd to 58,000 tpd in Q4 2020 and Q1 2021.

Phase 2 of the PV3 Optimization work was completed in Q3 2021. Capital was invested into tailings thickeners, pumping upgrades and installation of a new ball mill shell. Phase 2 optimization work further enables the reliability of higher throughput rates at Pinto Valley.

Total capital spent to date on Phase 1 and Phase 2 of PV 3 optimization totalled $31 million which has enabled 10% increase in throughput to reliably deliver 58,000 tpd on an annualized basis with horsepower to run at 60,000 tpd or higher during peaks.

PV4 Study

Work progressed on the pre-feasibility study for PV4 to take advantage of approximately one billion tonnes of Mineral Resource, not currently in the Mineral Reserve mine plan, which is at similar grade to the current Mineral Reserves at Pinto Valley. The PV4 pre-feasibility study is expected to be released in late 2022 and will focus on utilizing existing mill infrastructure rather than building new to achieve higher mining and milling rates, higher cut-off grades to the mill and increased tonnage available for leaching. Extensive column leach test work in collaboration with Jetti Resources LLC ("Jetti") has commenced and will continue through early 2022 and is being incorporated into the pre-feasibility study. Jetti's novel patented catalytic technology allows for the efficient and effective heap and stockpile leach extraction of copper and has been a success at Pinto Valley's leaching operations. In addition, the PV4 study will look to incorporate Coarse Particle Flotation, which has demonstrated, in pilot trials, the potential for increased recoveries by 6% to 8% while enabling higher throughput by operating at a coarser grind size and providing options to improve water consumption and tailings management.

Pyrite Agglomeration

Pinto Valley is studying the potential to add a pyrite agglomeration circuit to the dump leach process. Currently, the copper concentrate cleaner circuit tailings contain ~0.2% copper and significant pyrite mineral in a slurry containing up to ~3,000 tpd solids. Study work, that will be included in the PV4 pre-feasibility study, is looking into the feasibility of introducing this material into the heap leach dumps to produce numerous potential benefits including the following:

Leaching the copper contained in a portion of the tailings stream for added copper recovery; Oxidation of the pyrite generates free acid and would offset the requirement to purchase acid for leaching; Diverting this material from tailings impoundment has ESG benefits from reduced water consumption and a significant reduction in acid generating minerals reporting to tailings.

Santo Domingo Project

Following consolidation of Capstone's 100% ownership of the Santo Domingo Project ("Santo Domingo" or "the Project") in Region III, Chile during Q1 2021, the Company continued to advance the project on several fronts:

There remains strong interest in Santo Domingo and discussions are advancing well. Santo Domingo is currently the only fully permitted copper-iron project in Chile.

With respect to the reduced initial capital estimate, the Company and its port partner, Puerto Ventanas, are executing on early works in the framework agreement. In addition, the Company is advancing the analysis of the pipeline versus rail capital trade-off in which the proposals replace the pipeline capital to become a rail customer or a potential build, own, operate and transfer ("BOOT") contract on the pipeline. The end result is expected to be a reduction in initial capital of up to $150 million.

With respect to potential increases in the Chilean mining royalty tax, Santo Domingo is expected to be protected given the fact the Company retains a foreign investment contract with the state of Chile, which fell under the provisions of DL600. One of the benefits to the Company of this agreement is a tax invariability system for a period of 15 years post commercial production.

The cobalt feasibility study focused in Q3 2021 on new drilling to obtain samples for extensive bench scale testing that commenced during the quarter. The drilling delivered 7,600m of PQ core to be used as 140 individual samples for flotation-roast-leach flowsheet confirmation work and geometallurgical characterization. In parallel, several industrial visits took place in July and August to operating facilities and technology providers in Europe in order to gain insight on sulphide concentrate roast-leach facilities and associated processing technologies. The drilling campaign is ongoing and now focused on generation of sufficient sample mass for 2022 pilot scale testing of the cobalt recovery process.

The first of a total of two stages of the cobalt feasibility engineering work, covering prefeasibility-level activities, started in September and is expected to finalize in March 2022. The scope of work includes parallel execution of different trade-off studies focused on various concentrate oxidation technologies and different options for detailed production scheduling from a geological and mine planning perspective. The engineering work also addresses all relevant ESG aspects early on to assure smooth integration of the selected process route into the more developed copper and iron plant at Minera Santo Domingo. All work is progressing with support of several global and highly qualified consultant and technology providers so that delivery of the overall cobalt feasibility project, according to the earlier announced budget and schedule, is assured.

Cost Control

Cost control strategy included few of the following actions taken by the Company. During 2020, financial hedges were executed on foreign exchange rates to protect approximately half of the Company's Mexican Peso exposure from August 2020 through December 2021. The realized gain on the Mexican Peso zero cost collars was $2.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2021.

Pinto Valley fixed diesel prices with a supplier on its expected 2021 and 2022 diesel consumption at $1.76/gallon and $2.13/gallon, respectively. The fixed diesel prices have resulted in cost savings of $1.4 million and $3.3 million during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, respectively. At current prices is expected to yield additional savings of approximately $5 million over the remainder of 2021 and 2022.

OUTLOOK 2021 GUIDANCE

Capstone remains on track to produce between 175 and 190 million pounds of copper at C1 cash costs1 of between $1.75 and $1.90 per pound payable copper produced.

Capital guidance has changed from the amount reported in the Company's MD&A dated July 27, 2021. Pinto Valley capital guidance has decreased by $12 million ($7 million reduction in sustaining capital and $5 million reduction in expansionary capital). Cozamin expansionary capital has increased by $7 million due to pre-ordering the filters for dry stack tailings plant, no increase overall to the project.

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST DETAILS

Capstone will host a conference call and webcast on Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 10:00 am PT/1:00 pm ET.

Link to the audio webcast:

https://produceredition.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1505322&tp_key=98d4b26da7

Dial-in numbers for the audio-only portion of the conference call are below. Due to an increase in call volume, please dial-in at least five minutes prior to the call to ensure placement into the conference line on time.

Toronto: (+1) 416-764-8650

Vancouver: (+1) 778-383-7413

North America toll free: 888-664-6383

Confirmation #06479965

A replay of the conference call will be available until November 3, 2021. Dial-in numbers for Toronto: (+1) 416-764-8677 and North American toll free: 888-390-0541. The replay code is 479965#. Following the replay, an audio file will be available on Capstone's website at: https://capstonemining.com/investors/events-and-presentations/default.aspx.

This release is not suitable on a standalone basis for readers unfamiliar with Capstone and should be read in conjunction with the Company's MD&A and Financial Statements for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021, which are available on Capstone's website and on SEDAR, all of which have been reviewed and approved by Capstone's Board of Directors.

ABOUT CAPSTONE MINING CORP.

Capstone Mining Corp. is a Canadian base metals mining company, focused on copper. We are committed to the responsible development of our assets and the environments in which we operate. Our two producing mines are the Pinto Valley copper mine located in Arizona, US and the Cozamin copper-silver mine in Zacatecas State, Mexico. In addition, Capstone owns 100% of Santo Domingo, a large scale, fully permitted, copper-iron-gold project in Region III, Chile, as well as a portfolio of exploration properties. Capstone's strategy is to focus on the optimization of operations and assets in politically stable, mining-friendly regions, centred in the Americas. Our headquarters are in Vancouver, Canada and we are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) under the symbol CS.

Further information is available at www.capstonemining.com.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION

This document may contain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this document and the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required under applicable securities legislation.

Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect our expectations or beliefs regarding future events and the impacts of the ongoing and evolving COVID-19 pandemic. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the estimation of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves, the expected timing, operations and success of the underground paste backfill system study and tailings filtration project at Cozamin, the outcome and timing of the PV4 study, the timing and success of our use of the Jetti Technology, the successful execution of a port services agreement with Puerto Ventanas and/or rail agreement with Sigdo Kopper's rail business, the success of our strategic process for the Santo Domingo project, the expected reduction in capital requirements for the Santo Domingo project, the timing and success of the Cobalt Study for Santo Domingo, the success of the PV3 Optimization project, the realization of Mineral Reserve estimates, the timing and amount of estimated future production, costs of production and capital expenditures and reclamation, the success of our mining operations, the success of mineral exploration, the estimations for potential quantities and grade of inferred resources and exploration targets, Capstone's ability to fund future exploration activities, Capstone's ability to finance the Santo Domingo project, Capstone's ability to find a strategic partner, environmental risks, unanticipated reclamation expenses and title disputes. The potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our business and operations are unknown at this time, including Capstone's ability to manage challenges and restrictions arising from COVID-19 in the communities in which Capstone operates and our ability to continue to safely operate and to safely return our business to normal operations. The impact of COVID-19 to Capstone is dependent on a number of factors outside of our control and knowledge, including the effectiveness of the measures taken by public health and governmental authorities to combat the spread of the disease, global economic uncertainties and outlook due to the disease, and the evolving restrictions relating to mining activities and to travel in certain jurisdictions in which we operate.

In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as "anticipates", "approximately", "believes", "budget", "estimates", expects", "forecasts", "guidance", intends", "plans", "scheduled", "target", or variations of such words and phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "be achieved", "could", "may", "might", "occur", "should", "will be taken" or "would" or the negative of these terms or comparable terminology. In this document certain forward-looking statements are identified by words including "anticipated", "expected", "guidance" and "plan". By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Such factors include, amongst others, risks related to inherent hazards associated with mining operations and closure of mining projects, future prices of copper and other metals, compliance with financial covenants, surety bonding, our ability to raise capital, Capstone's ability to acquire properties for growth, counterparty risks associated with sales of our metals, use of financial derivative instruments and associated counterparty risks, foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, market access restrictions or tariffs, changes in general economic conditions, availability of water, accuracy of Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve estimates, operating in foreign jurisdictions with risk of changes to governmental regulation, compliance with governmental regulations, compliance with environmental laws and regulations, reliance on approvals, licenses and permits from governmental authorities and potential legal challenges to permit applications, contractual risks including but not limited to, our ability to meet the completion test requirements under the Cozamin Silver Stream Agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals, our ability to meet certain closing conditions under the Santo Domingo Gold Stream Agreement with Wheaton Precious Metals, acting as Indemnitor for Minto Exploration Ltd.'s surety bond obligations post divestiture, impact of climate change and changes to climatic conditions at our Pinto Valley and Cozamin operations and Santo Domingo project, changes in regulatory requirements and policy related to climate change and greenhouse gas ("GHG") emissions, land reclamation and mine closure obligations, risks relating to widespread epidemics or pandemic outbreak including the COVID-19 pandemic; the impact of COVID-19 on our workforce, suppliers and other essential resources and what effect those impacts, if they occur, would have on our business, including our ability to access goods and supplies, the ability to transport our products and impacts on employee productivity, the risks in connection with the operations, cash flow and results of Capstone relating to the unknown duration and impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, uncertainties and risks related to the potential development of the Santo Domingo project, increased operating and capital costs, increased cost of reclamation, challenges to title to our mineral properties, increased taxes in jurisdictions the Company operates or is subject to tax, changes in tax regimes we are subject to and any changes in law or interpretation of law may be difficult to react to in an efficient manner, maintaining ongoing social license to operate, dependence on key management personnel, potential conflicts of interest involving our directors and officers, corruption and bribery, limitations inherent in our insurance coverage, labour relations, increasing energy prices, competition in the mining industry including but not limited to competition for skilled labour, risks associated with joint venture partners, our ability to integrate new acquisitions and new technology into our operations, cybersecurity threats, legal proceedings, the volatility of the price of the Common Shares, the uncertainty of maintaining a liquid trading market for the Common Shares, risks related to dilution to existing shareholders if stock options or other convertible securities are exercised, the history of Capstone with respect to not paying dividends and anticipation of not paying dividends in the foreseeable future, and sales of Common Shares by existing shareholders can reduce trading prices, and other risks of the mining industry as well as those factors detailed from time to time in the Company's interim and annual financial statements and MD&A of those statements and Annual Information Form, all of which are filed and available for review under the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those described in our forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause our results, performance or achievements not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that our forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as our actual results, performance or achievements could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on our forward-looking statements.

CAUTIONARY NOTE TO UNITED STATES INVESTORS REGARDING PRESENTATION OF MINERAL RESERVE AND MINERAL RESOURCE ESTIMATES

As a British Columbia corporation and a "reporting issuer" under Canadian securities laws, we are required to provide disclosure regarding our mineral properties in accordance with Canadian National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101"). NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators that establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. In accordance with NI 43-101, we use the terms mineral reserves and resources as they are defined in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards on mineral reserves and resources (the "CIM Definition Standards") adopted by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum. In particular, the terms "mineral reserve", "proven mineral reserve", "probable mineral reserve", "mineral resource", "measured mineral resource", "indicated mineral resource" and "inferred mineral resource" used in this news release and the documents incorporated by reference herein and therein, are Canadian mining terms defined in accordance with CIM Definition Standards. These definitions differ from the definitions in the disclosure requirements promulgated by the SEC. Accordingly, information contained in this news release and the documents incorporated by reference herein may not be comparable to similar information made public by U.S. companies reporting pursuant to SEC disclosure requirements.

United States investors are also cautioned that while the SEC will now recognize "measured mineral resources", "indicated mineral resources" and "inferred mineral resources", investors should not assume that any part or all of the mineralization in these categories will ever be converted into a higher category of mineral resources or into mineral reserves. Mineralization described using these terms has a greater amount of uncertainty as to their existence and feasibility than mineralization that has been characterized as reserves. Accordingly, investors are cautioned not to assume that any "measured mineral resources", "indicated mineral resources", or "inferred mineral resources" that we report are or will be economically or legally mineable. Further, "inferred resources" have a greater amount of uncertainty as to their existence and as to whether they can be mined legally or economically. Therefore, United States investors are also cautioned not to assume that all or any part of the inferred resources exist. In accordance with Canadian rules, estimates of "inferred mineral resources" cannot form the basis of feasibility or other economic studies, except in limited circumstances where permitted under NI 43-101.

NATIONAL INSTRUMENT 43-101 COMPLIANCE

Unless otherwise indicated, Capstone has prepared the technical information in this news release ("Technical Information") based on information contained in the technical reports, Annual Information Form and news releases (collectively the "Disclosure Documents") available under Capstone Mining Corp.'s company profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Each Disclosure Document was prepared by or under the supervision of a qualified person (a "Qualified Person") as defined in National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects of the Canadian Securities Administrators ("NI 43-101"). Readers are encouraged to review the full text of the Disclosure Documents which qualifies the Technical Information. Readers are advised that Mineral Resources that are not Mineral Reserves do not have demonstrated economic viability. The Disclosure Documents are each intended to be read as a whole, and sections should not be read or relied upon out of context. The Technical Information is subject to the assumptions and qualifications contained in the Disclosure Documents.

Disclosure Documents include the National Instrument 43-101 compliant technical reports titled "NI 43-101 Technical Report on the Cozamin Mine, Zacatecas, Mexico" effective October 23, 2020, "Pinto Valley Mine Life Extension Phase 3 (PV3) Pre-Feasibility Study" effective January 1, 2016 and "Santo Domingo Project, Region III, Chile, NI 43-101 Technical Report" effective February 19, 2020.

The disclosure of Scientific and Technical Information in this news release was reviewed and approved by Brad Mercer, P. Geol., Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer (technical information related to mineral exploration activities and to Mineral Resources at Cozamin), Clay Craig, P.Eng, Manager, Mining Evaluations (technical information related to Mineral Reserves and Mineral Resources at Pinto Valley), Tucker Jensen, Superintendent Mine Operations, P.Eng (technical information related to Mineral Reserves at Cozamin) and Albert Garcia III, PE, Vice President, Projects (technical information related to project updates at Santo Domingo) all Qualified Persons under NI 43-101.

ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE MEASURES

Alternative performance measures are furnished to provide additional information. These non-GAAP performance measures are included in this news release because these statistics are key performance measures that management uses to monitor performance, to assess how the Company is performing, and to plan and assess the overall effectiveness and efficiency of mining operations. These performance measures do not have a standard meaning within IFRS and, therefore, amounts presented may not be comparable to similar data presented by other mining companies. These performance measures should not be considered in isolation as a substitute for measures of performance in accordance with IFRS.

Some of these alternative performance measures are presented in Highlights and discussed further in other sections of this document. These measures provide meaningful supplemental information regarding operating results because they exclude certain significant items that are not considered indicative of future financial trends either by nature or amount. As a result, these items are excluded for management assessment of operational performance and preparation of annual budgets. These significant items may include, but are not limited to, restructuring and asset impairment charges, individually significant gains and losses from sales of assets, share based compensation, unrealized gains or losses, and certain items outside the control of management. These items may not be non-recurring. However, excluding these items from GAAP or Non-GAAP results allows for a consistent understanding of the Company's consolidated financial performance when performing a multi-period assessment including assessing the likelihood of future results. Accordingly, these Non-GAAP financial measures may provide insight to investors and other external users of the Company's consolidated financial information.

C1 Cash Costs Per Payable Pound of Copper Produced

C1 cash costs per payable pound of copper produced is a measure reflective of operating costs per unit. C1 cash costs is calculated as cash production costs of metal produced net of by-product credits and is a key performance measure that management uses to monitor performance. Management uses this measure to assess how well the Company's producing mines are performing and to assess overall efficiency and effectiveness of the mining operations and assumes that realized by-product prices are consistent with those prevailing during the reporting period.

Net debt/Net cash

Net debt/Net cash is a performance measure used by the Company to assess its financial position and is comprised of Long-term debt (excluding deferred financing costs), Cash and cash equivalents and Short-term investments.

Operating Cash Flow before Working Capital Changes per Common Share

Operating Cash Flow before working capital changes per common share is a performance measure used by the Company to assess its ability to generate cash from its operations, while also taking into consideration changes in the number of outstanding shares of the Company.

Adjusted Net Income (Loss)

Adjusted net income (loss) is net income (loss) attributable to shareholders as reported, adjusted for certain types of transactions that in our judgment are not indicative of our normal operating activities or do not necessarily occur on a regular basis.

EBITDA

EBITDA is net income (loss) attributable to shareholders before net finance expense, tax expense, and depletion and amortization.

Adjusted EBITDA

Adjusted EBITDA is EBITDA before the pre-tax effect of the adjustments made to adjusted net income (above) as well as certain other adjustments required under the Company's RCF agreement in the determination of EBITDA for covenant calculation purposes.

The adjustments made to Adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted EBITDA allow management and readers to analyze our results more clearly and understand the cash generating potential of the Company.

For further information please contact: Jerrold Annett, SVP, Strategy and Capital Markets 647-273-7251 Email: jannett@capstonemining.com

Sustaining capital

Sustaining capital is expenditures to maintain existing operations and sustain production levels. A reconciliation to GAAP segment MPPE additions is included within the mine site sections of this document.

Expansionary capital

Expansionary capital is expenditures to increase current or future production capacity, cash flow or earnings potential. A reconciliation to GAAP segment MPPE additions is included within the mine site sections of this document.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006307/en/

Contacts:

Jerrold Annett, SVP, Strategy and Capital Markets

647-273-7351

jannett@capstonemining.com

Kettina Cordero, Director Investor Relations Communications

604-262-9794

kcordero@capstonemining.com
- The opening session of FII's 5th Anniversary event was a live 90-minute 'board meeting' featuring high profile business leaders from Asia, Africa, Europe, and the United States

- FII attendees include Presidents, Prime Ministers, corporate executives, experts, innovators, and media who gather to explore solutions for society's challenges and commit to their realization.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The 5th Anniversary of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) opened with a live board meeting featuring leading global CEOs, investors, and policymakers discussing how best to invest in humanity.

The opening session on day one of FII was entitled 'The Board of Changemakers: Investing for Impact'. The meeting was moderated by CNN anchor Richard Quest, who was joined by high profile business leaders from Africa, Europe, and the United States including H.E. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, CEO & Managing Director, Mubadala Investment Company, Stephen A. Schwarzman, Chairman, CEO & Co- Founder, Blackstone, and Ray Dalio, Founder, Co-Chairman & Co-CIO, Bridgewater Associates, LP. They debated ways the global financial community can come together to invest in humanity.

FII Institute CEO Richard Attias said the live board meeting was an extra special event for FII. "It was a highly unique live board meeting. FII hosted this special live 'meeting' on practical and actionable ways to invest in humanity. This set the scene for three days of vibrant debate and decision-making designed to help transform the future of humanity."

The board meeting included:

H.E. Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak , CEO & Managing Director, Mubadala Investment Company (UAE)

, CEO & Managing Director, Mubadala Investment Company (UAE) Ana Patricia Botin , Group Executive Chairman, Banco Santander S.A. ( Spain )

, Group Executive Chairman, Banco Santander S.A. ( ) Ray Dalio , Founder, Co-Chairman & Co-CIO, Bridgewater Associates, LP ( United States )

, Founder, Co-Chairman & Co-CIO, Bridgewater Associates, LP ( ) Larry Fink , Chairman & CEO, BlackRock, Inc. ( United States )

, Chairman & CEO, BlackRock, Inc. ( ) Dr. Patrice Motsepe , Founder, African Rainbow Capital ( South Africa )

, Founder, African Rainbow Capital ( ) Stephen A. Schwarzman , Chairman, CEO & Co-Founder, Blackstone ( United States )

, Chairman, CEO & Co-Founder, Blackstone ( ) David M. Solomon , Chairman & CEO, The Goldman Sachs Group ( United States )

About FII Institute

FII Institute is a global nonprofit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Committed to ESG principles, we foster the brightest minds and transform ideas into real- world solutions in five focus areas: AI and Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.

We are in the right place at the right time - when decision makers, investors and an engaged generation of youth come together in aspiration, energized and ready for change. We harness that energy into three pillars - THINK, XCHANGE, ACT - and invest in the innovations that make a difference globally.

Join us to own, co-create and actualize a brighter, more sustainable future for humanity. www.fii-institute.org

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1670917/THE_BOARD_OF_CHANGEMAKERS.jpg


WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Elon Musk's EV giant Tesla Inc (TSLA) has touched one trillion market capital, despite being the lowest revenue-making company in the S&P 500 index. The company reached the milestone after ride-hailing service, Hertz Global Holdings Inc ordered 100,000 Teslas to add to its fleet.



Tesla joins the esteemed list with Apple Inc (AAPL), Microsoft (MSFT), Alphabet (GOOGL), and Amazon (AMZN). But analysts are wary that Tesla's stay on the list is not going to be for long as other EV makers will soon bite into its currently unrivaled industry shares. Tesla sold 79% of all EVs in 2020, but experts believe that the share will fall to 20% by 2025.



In recent times, almost all the major automobile manufacturers have decided to turn to make electric vehicles and completely stop manufacturing combustion engines for environmental reasons. While companies like General Motor Company (GM), Ford Motors (F) are still in their early stages of making EVs, Tesla has been the majority shareholder of the industry for more than a decade, so, it is not at all a surprise to anyone that Tesla is benefiting from this boom.



IHS Markit associate director Michael Fiske said to CNBC, 'It's no surprise that Tesla's still dominating electric vehicle sales because they're the only ones that really have viable products in full swing. In a growth market, it's extremely challenging to maintain the majority market share, regardless of industry. . As we start to move toward a larger and really significant number of manufacturers that are going to be playing in the space, Tesla has to lose share.'



Hertz on Monday announced that it will offer the largest Electric Vehicle rental fleet in North America with an initial order of 100,000 Teslas by the end of 2022.



With the current order, Electric Vehicles will comprise more than 20 percent of Hertz's global fleet and is expected to be supported by a combination of Level 2 and DC fast charging in approximately 65 markets by the end of 2022 and more than 100 markets by the end of 2023. Also, the company is teaming up with Tom Brady for a new 'Hertz, Let's Go!' campaign.



Hertz said, beginning in early November and expanding through year-end, customers will be able to rent a Tesla Model 3 at Hertz airport and neighborhood locations in U.S. major markets and select cities in Europe. Customers who rent a Tesla Model 3 will have access to 3,000 Tesla supercharging stations throughout the U.S. and Europe., the company noted.



With Tesla hitting $1 trillion, the company CEO, Elon Musk has also widened the gap between him and Jeff Bezos. According to reports, Musk's net worth as of now is $300 billion, almost $100 billion richer than the former Amazon supremo.



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NEW YORK CITY (dpa-AFX) - A Food and Drug Administration advisory committee said on Tuesday that a lower dose of the Pfizer and BioNTech's Covid-19 vaccine should be administered for children ages 5 to 11. This recommendation is an important step forward in getting around 28 million young children vaccinated against the virus even as the delta variant spreads fast across the country.



The recommendation by the FDA's Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee will now be taken into consideration by the FDA, which is supposed to make public its decision in a few days time. The Advisory Committee unanimously voted for the decision with 17 supporting it and one person abstaining.



Following this recommendation, next week a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention vaccine advisory group will give its own opinion. If that committee also decides in the positive and CDC Director Rochelle Walensky signs the deal, then young kids will begin getting their vaccine shots as soon as possible.



Many parents prefer rolling out of vaccine shots for young kids as schools have opened all over the country and COVID-19 cases are rising among the kids, mainly driven by the Delta variant.



As per data released by the FDA, children aged 5-11 account for around 9 percent of all reported Covid cases in the country. The number of new cases of COVID among kids is high, with as many as 1.1 million cases added over the past six weeks, said the American Academy of Pediatrics.



Some committee members were of the opinion that vaccination of the younger people will put the U.S. on the path to Covid's 'endemic' phase, where the virus is still circulating but is not as prevalent or dangerous. Other members said that there were still unknowns, like the rate of myocarditis in young kids, but gave importance to the benefits of the shots



Commenting on the decision, committee member, Dr Amanda Cohn said, 'We don't want children to be dying from Covid, even if it is far fewer children than adults and we don't want them in the ICU.'



The Biden administration plans to start vaccinating young kids as soon as it's authorized by the FDA and CDC, which will happen sometime next month. The administration said it had enough doses to inoculate all 28 million 5-11-year-olds. The vaccine will be administered in smaller dosing and with smaller needles to make it easier.



Earlier this month, Pfizer had asked the FDA to authorize its vaccine for young kids. The company released data that showed a two-dose regimen of 10 micrograms, a third of that used for teens and adults, is safe and generated a strong immune response in clinical trials.



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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Frank Smeenk is pleased to announce the acquisition on October 22, 2021 of ownership of an aggregate of $805,000 of convertible debentures (the "Debentures") through a private placement (the "Private Placement") completed by KWG Resources Inc. (CSE: KWG) (the "Issuer") (see the Issuer's news release dated October 22, 2021 for the terms of the Private Placement). The Debentures are convertible into an aggregate of 53,666 Units comprised of 107,332 Multiple Voting Shares and 53,666 Warrants or an aggregate of 48,299,400 subordinate voting shares of the Issuer (each, a "Subordinate Voting Share") calculated on the basis of the conversion of the principal of Mr. Smeenk's Debentures into Multiple Voting Shares and Warrants, the exercise of all such Warrants and the conversion of the Multiple Voting Shares into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1.

Prior to acquiring the Debentures, Mr. Smeenk owned the following securities of the Issuer: (i) 9,423,446 Subordinate Voting Shares and 473,702 Multiple Voting Shares (or an aggregate of 151,534,046 Subordinate Voting Shares calculated on the basis of conversion of all of Mr. Smeenk's Multiple Voting Shares into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1) representing approximately 10.29% of the issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares (calculated on the basis of conversion of all outstanding Multiple Voting Shares of the Issuer into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1); (ii) 14,123,796 Subordinate Voting Share purchase warrants and 464,402 Multiple Voting Share purchase warrants (or an aggregate of 153,444,396 warrants to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares calculated on the basis of conversion of all such Multiple Voting Share purchase warrants into Subordinate Voting Share purchase warrants on a ratio of 300:1) that, if exercised would have represented approximately 9.44% of the issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares (calculated on a partially diluted basis assuming that all such warrants held by Mr. Smeenk are exercised and assuming the conversion of all outstanding Multiple Voting Shares of the Issuer into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1); and (iii) 8,500,000 options to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares and 35,001 options to purchase Multiple Voting Shares (or an aggregate of 10,500,300 options to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares calculated on the basis of conversion of all such options to purchase Multiple Voting Shares into options to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1) that, if exercised, would have represented approximately 0.71% of the issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares (calculated on a partially diluted basis assuming that all such options held by Mr. Smeenk are exercised and assuming the conversion of all outstanding Multiple Voting Shares of the Issuer into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1).

As a result of the above-noted acquisition of $805,000 of Debentures, Mr. Smeenk now owns the following securities of the Issuer: (i) Debentures in the principal amount of $805,000 convertible into an aggregate of 53,666 Units comprised of 107,332 Multiple Voting Shares and 53,666 Warrants (or an aggregate of 48,299,400 Subordinate Voting Shares calculated on the basis of the exercise of all such Warrants and the conversion of all such Multiple Voting Shares into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1) representing approximately 2.87% of the issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares (calculated on a partially diluted basis assuming that the principal of the Debentures owned by Mr. Smeenk are converted into Units comprised of Multiple Voting Shares and Warrants, all such Warrants issued to Mr. Smeenk are exercised, all Options and Warrants held by Mr. Smeenk are exercised and all Multiple Voting Shares received by Mr. Smeenk are converted into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1 and assuming the conversion of all outstanding Multiple Voting Shares of the Issuer into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1 (the "Partially Diluted Basis")); (ii) 9,423,446 Subordinate Voting Shares and 473,702 Multiple Voting Shares (or an aggregate of 151,534,046 Subordinate Voting Shares calculated on the basis of conversion of all of Mr. Smeenk's Multiple Voting Shares into Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1) representing approximately 8.99% of the issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares (calculated on the Partially Diluted Basis); (iii) 14,123,796 Subordinate Voting Share purchase warrants and 464,402 Multiple Voting Share purchase warrants (or an aggregate of 153,444,396 warrants to acquire Subordinate Voting Shares calculated on the basis of conversion of all such Multiple Voting Share purchase warrants into Subordinate Voting Share purchase warrants on a ratio of 300:1) that, if exercised would have represented approximately 9.11% of the issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares (calculated on the Partially Diluted Basis); and (iv) 8,500,000 options to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares and 35,001 options to purchase Multiple Voting Shares (or an aggregate of 10,500,300 options to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares calculated on the basis of conversion of all such options to purchase Multiple Voting Shares into options to purchase Subordinate Voting Shares on a ratio of 300:1) that, if exercised, would have represented approximately 0.62% of the issued and outstanding Subordinate Voting Shares (calculated on the Partially Diluted Basis).

The Debentures were issued by the Issuer to settle debts owed by the Issuer to Mr. Smeenk. Mr. Smeenk advises that he has no present intention of acquiring additional securities of the Issuer (other than with respect to the possible exercise of some or all of the Warrants, Options or Debentures). Depending upon his evaluation of the business, prospects and financial condition of the Issuer, the market for the Issuer's securities, general economic and tax conditions and other factors, Mr. Smeenk may acquire more or sell some or all of his securities of the Issuer.

For more information please contact:

Frank Smeenk

Telephone: (416) 888-4790

Email address: fcs@kwgresources.com

Cautionary Statements

This news release contains forward-looking information. All information, other than statements of historical fact, that address activities, events or developments that Mr. Smeenk believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the trading in securities and strategic initiatives. This forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties beyond their ability to control or predict and which may cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in such forward-looking information. Any forward-looking information speaks only as of the date on which it is made and, except as may be required by applicable securities laws, Mr. Smeenk disclaims any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise. Although Mr. Smeenk believes that the assumptions inherent in the forward-looking information are reasonable, forward-looking information is not a guarantee of future performance and, accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on this forward-looking information due to the inherent uncertainty thereof.

Neither IIROC nor any stock exchange or other securities regulatory authority accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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/100970
- Current and former heads of state from Africa, Europe and North America attend the 5th Anniversary of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) in Riyadh this week.

- FII opened on Tuesday, October 26 with leading global CEOs, investors, and policymakers discussing how best to invest in humanity.

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Current and former world leaders join the debates and discussions at the 5th Anniversary of the Future Investment Initiative (FII) this week in Riyadh. Showing the reach of the FII community across the world, current and former Heads of State from Africa, Europe and North America join discussions on sustainability, technology and innovation, and AI.

World Leaders attending FII include:

His Excellency Muhammadu Buhari , President, Nigeria;

, President, Nigeria; His Excellency Stephen Harper , former Prime Minister, Canada;

, former Prime Minister, Canada; Her Excellency Kersti Kaljulaid , former President, Estonia;

, former President, Estonia; His Excellency Kyriakos Mitsotakis , Prime Minister, Greece;

, Prime Minister, Greece; His Excellency Ali Bongo Ondimba , President, Gabon;

, President, Gabon; His Excellency Mario Renzi , former Prime Minister, Italy and FII Institute Board of Trustees member; and

, former Prime Minister, Italy and FII Institute Board of Trustees member; and His Excellency Armen Sarkissian, President, Armenia

The Future Investment Initiative (FII) opened today with leading global CEOs, investors, and policymakers discussing how best to invest in humanity.

The 5th Anniversary FII is taking place under the theme "Invest in Humanity". Discussions revolve around the investments that will create the greatest benefits for humanity, as multiple sectors witness a renaissance in the post-COVID era. The platform brings together world leaders, experts, innovators, and media in a global forum to explore pioneering solutions addressing society's challenges and propel action towards their realization.

The full program is available at www.fii-institute.org. Registration to attend virtually is now open.

About FII Institute

FII Institute is a global nonprofit foundation with an investment arm and one agenda: Impact on Humanity. Committed to ESG principles, we foster the brightest minds and transform ideas into real- world solutions in five focus areas: AI and Robotics, Education, Healthcare and Sustainability.

We are in the right place at the right time - when decision makers, investors and an engaged generation of youth come together in aspiration, energized and ready for change. We harness that energy into three pillars - THINK, XCHANGE, ACT - and invest in the innovations that make a difference globally.

Join us to own, co-create and actualize a brighter, more sustainable future for humanity. www.fii-institute.org

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1670988/FII_Institute.jpg
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - October 26, 2021) - Stratabound Minerals Corp. (TSXV:SB) (OTCQB:SBMIF) ("Stratabound" or the "Company") announced the closing on October 26, 2021, of the first tranche of $171,179.76 (1,426,498 units) of its non-brokered private placement ("Private Placement") announced on October 18, 2021. Each unit consists of one common share and one half of a warrant. Each whole warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional common share at $0.25 for a period of two years from the date of closing. The warrant also contains an acceleration clause wherein if the common shares trade at $0.40 for 10 days the Company has the right to accelerate the expiration date upon 30 days' notice.

Securities issued pursuant to this tranche are subject to trading restrictions until February 27, 2022.

An insider of the Company subscribed for an aggregate of 50,063 common shares of the Company. The Company has relied on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of such insider participation.

Proceeds will be used for exploration expenses to maintain the respective exploration properties and for general corporate working capital purposes.

The Company also announced it has completed the first tranche of $361,200.08 (3,010,001 units) of its non-brokered Flow Through Unit private placement. Each Flow-Through Unit is comprised of one common share and one-half of a warrant and is issued on a flow through basis for Canadian tax purposes. One whole warrant will entitle the holder thereof to purchase one non flow-through common share at $0.25 for a period of 1 year from the date of issue. The warrant also contains an acceleration clause wherein if the common shares trade at $0.35 for 10 days the Company has the right to accelerate the expiration date upon 30 days' notice.

Securities issued pursuant to this tranche are subject to trading restrictions until February 27, 2022.

Two insiders of the Company subscribed for an aggregate of 192,000 common shares of the Company. The Company has relied on the exemptions from the valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 contained in sections 5.5(b) and 5.7(a) of MI 61-101 in respect of such insider participation.

Proceeds will be used for qualifying exploration expenditures on the Company's Canadian exploration properties.

About Stratabound Minerals Corp.

Stratabound Minerals Corp. is a Canadian mineral development company developing its advanced-stage Fremont Gold Project in the Mother Lode Gold Belt of California. The Project features an NI 43- 101 Mineral Resource estimate of 526k oz's at an average grade of 1.60 g/t Au in the Indicated plus 452k oz's at an average grade of 1.29 g/t Au in the Inferred Mineral Resource categories respectively encompassing two historic high-grade U/G gold mines. It also hosts 3 undeveloped gold occurrences across 4-km of strike along the prolific Mother Lode Gold Belt. The Company is also advancing its other early-stage gold projects; the Golden Culvert, YT, McIntyre Brook, NB, and Dingman, ON, as well as a significant land position hosting three base metals deposits in the Bathurst base metals camp of New Brunswick featuring the Captain Copper-Cobalt-Gold Deposit.

Mr. R. Kim Tyler, P.Geo., President and CEO of Stratabound, and a "Qualified Person" for the purpose of NI 43-101, has reviewed and approved the contents and technical information of this news release.

For more information, please visit the company's website at www.stratabound.ca or contact: R. Kim Tyler, President and CEO 416-915-4157 info@stratabound.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.

WARNING: The Company relies upon litigation protection for "forward-looking" statements. The information in this release may contain forward-looking information under applicable securities laws. This forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those implied by the forward-looking information. Factors that may cause actual results to vary materially include, but are not limited to, inaccurate assumptions concerning the exploration for and development of mineral deposits, currency fluctuations, unanticipated operational or technical difficulties, changes in laws or regulations, failure to obtain regulatory, exchange or shareholder approval, the risks of obtaining necessary licenses and permits, changes in general economic conditions or conditions in the financial markets and the inability to raise additional financing. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on this forward-looking information. The Company does not assume the obligation to revise or update this forward-looking information after the date of this release or to revise such information to reflect the occurrence of future unanticipated events, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

Not for distribution to U.S. newswire services for dissemination in the United States of America. Any failure to comply with this restriction may constitute a violation of U. S. securities law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/100971
The coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdowns affected practically every single industry, but none were forced to make such quick and dramatic changes to the way they operated more than the restaurant industry.

The ability to pivot is one of the most important characteristics a business needs for success, and the restaurant industry is no exception to that rule. As one of the first industries to be slowed down and receive unprecedented safety protocols, restaurants had no prior model to turn to and therefore ended up creating inventive solutions that have since been adapted in other sectors such as retail.

From fast food chains to upscale eateries, owners and operators were forced to find new ways to serve their customers, and unfortunately many were not able to withstand the pressure. According to the National Restaurant Association, more than 110,000 eating and drinking establishments in the United States closed for businesstemporarily or permanentlyin 2020, with nearly 2.5 million jobs erased from pre-pandemic levels. Restaurant and foodservice industry sales fell by $240 billion last year from an expected level of $899 billion, but those who were able to think creatively and act rapidly managed to weather the storm and are now looking ahead toward the ubiquitous new normal.

One such example of this was the Dickeys BBQ franchise. The Dallas-based company opened its first location over 80 years ago and today operates over 500 franchise locations across the United States and in a number of countries internationally. Family owned and operated since its inception, the Dickeys BBQ franchise showed the restaurant industry that it was possible to not only survive the pandemic, but even thrive in spite of it. As of January 2021, Dickeys digital sales were exceeding pre-COVID-19 levels by over 200 percent, and restaurant sales for the entire system same-store sales were positive for over six months. Thanks to the work of husband-and-wife duo Laura Rea Dickey and Roland Dickey Jr. (respective Chief Executive Officers of Dickeys Barbecue Restaurants, Inc. and its parent company Dickeys Capital Group) the Dickeys BBQ franchise was able to successfully pivot their brand toward the future of the restaurant industry. Below, we explore through the Dickeys BBQ franchise how the industry has shifted since the coronavirus pandemic, and what will continue to have relevance moving forward.

BOPIS

Digital commerce services such as buy online, pick up in-store (BOPIS) were already outpacing overall retail growth prior to the coronavirus pandemic and becoming popular, in particular, amongst grocery stores and big-box retailers, but for the majority of restaurants this type of offering was far down the list when it came to new services to implement. However, after COVID-19 was declared a pandemic and the world subsequently shut down, BOPIS (and curbside pickup) went from being a nice-to-have differentiator to a must-have survival capability. Within less than a month of the pandemic shutdown, Dickeys BBQ franchise had already launched a modernized eCommerce site, recognizing that an enhanced user experience online would be pivotal not only during the pandemic shutdown but also after. BOPIS allowed restaurants big and small to continue serving their customers while dining in was an impossibility, and although we are now at a point where restaurants are able to host guests again many are still choosing the BOPIS method for its convenience and flexibility.

Delivery apps

The other side of the to-go coin lies in delivery apps, which became the lifeblood of many restaurants that previously only offered in-person dining. Prior to March of 2020, millennials and Generation Z were more likely to swipe and scroll through their third-party delivery apps on their phone, while other demographics were more likely to prefer dining in person or picking up the phone to place a takeout order every once and a while. However, the pandemic pushed many previously unfamiliar with delivery apps onto the platforms, and studies have shown that many people say they are more likely to get food delivered than they were before the pandemic. Dickeys BBQ franchise was one of the first brands to launch contactless delivery back in March of last year, choosing to deliver via their own platform rather than utilize third-party offerings. Rather than deciding between whether they should offer delivery or not, restaurants should be weighing the pros and cons of third-party apps versus their own platform because food delivery within the restaurant industry will only continue to grow post-pandemic.

Streamlining kitchen processes

One of the latent effects of the coronavirus pandemic that wasnt necessarily predicted was the labor shortage that has arisen. Restaurants are having a difficult time attracting and retaining employees, and while offering incentives such as bonuses and other perks may help get employees in the door, keeping turnover low remains a challenge. One of the ways for operators to retain employees in the long-term is by focusing on creating a better, more streamlined work environment for their employees. As the world has become more digitized, the restaurant industry especially within back-of-house operations has failed to keep up, and many restaurant managers continue to rely on paper forms to manage and record the completion of operational processes. From handwriting date code and food freshness labels to recording that a restroom has been cleaned on a clipboard with a dangling pen tied to the clamp, these methods are outdated at best and inefficient at their worst. The Dickeys BBQ franchise was well aware of this even prior to the pandemic and has been working to modernize their back-of-house processes for years. In 2019, Laura Rea was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by Hospitality Technology for her work utilizing Amazons voice technology in restaurant operations.

Artificial intelligence

While many may still think of artificial intelligence as something out of science fiction, the fact of the matter is you no longer need a team of data scientists to tap into the power of it. The technology is readily available today, and has the ability to streamline everything from ordering to predictive staffing and inventory. The coronavirus pandemic certainly highlighted the need for the restaurant industry to catch up when it comes to these digital tools, and in the competitive new world post-COVID these tools can mean the difference between success and failure. In the realm of artificial intelligence, Dickeys has been particularly focused on utilizing big data in their decision-making process, having developed a proprietary system named Smoke Stack that synthesizes data from point-of-sale systems, marketing promotions, loyalty programs, customer surveys, and inventory systems to provide real-time feedback. As customers increasingly embrace digital tools within their own lives, restaurants will need to make sure they are keeping up.

Altogether, the theme of the future for the restaurant industry lies in a resilient attitude and ability to be flexible through these inevitably uncertain times. Much of the world moved to the digital sphere when in-person interactions werent possible, and although the importance of experiences such as dining in restaurants cant be understated these new patterns of daily life cant be expected to disappear completely either. Keeping up with these trends will be crucial in the coming years for restaurants, and whether you are a small food truck or a large franchise finding a way to implement these trends will be pivotal.
DNA Script, a Paris, France-based biotechnology company focused on Enzymatic DNA Synthesis (EDS) and DNA printing on demand, raised $165M in Series C funding.

The round, which brought the total amount raised to date by to $280m was led by Coatue Management and Catalio Capital Management with participation from Fidelity Management and Research, Columbia Threadneedle Investments, Arrowmark Partners, Farallon Capital and Moore Strategic Ventures, Casdin Capital, LSP, Illumina Ventures, Bpifrance Large Venture Fund, Danaher Life Sciences, Agilent Technologies, M Ventures, Kurma Partners and Alexandria Venture Investment.



The company intends to use the funds to accelerate expansion and commercialization of its Syntax Platform and broaden the portfolio of products powered by EDS.

Led by Thomas Ybert, CEO, DNA Script provides a way to design and manufacture nucleic acids. The company has developed an alternative to traditional DNA synthesis called Enzymatic DNA Synthesis, or EDS, allowing this technology to be accessible to labs with a benchtop enzymatic synthesis instrument, the Syntax System.

The company announced last June the targeted release of the SYNTAX System, a benchtop instrument along with software, and reagent kits. The platform provides in-house DNA printing  without using toxic organic chemicals or extended delivery wait times from third-party DNA service providers  for labs of all sizes. The automated instrument sets up in 15 minutes and within a few hours produces up to 96 oligos immediately ready for use in genomics and molecular biology research.

FinSMEs

26/10/2021
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Sector Overview Sector Overview

Airports in Nepal have come a long way since the first landing of a Beechcraft in Gauchar Airport in 1949. The 48 airports interspersed throughout the country provide connectivity in a country with mountainous terrain and an underdeveloped road network. However, despite this progress, Nepals airport sector faces multiple challenges in terms of cost, safety and service. Out of the 48 airports, only 11 have paved runways and are operable year-round and only 15 are served by regular scheduled commercial flights. The majority of Nepals airports require significant investment to upgrade them to modern standards.

Tribhuwan International Airport (TIA), Nepals only international airport, currently handles approximately 3.2 million international and 1.5 million domestic passengers per year. The airport is served by 26 international carriers offering direct connections to 23 destinations in Asia and Europe. Additionally, 34 domestic carriers offer scheduled flights to 14 regional airports, as well as mountain flights. A surge in labour traffic and increased economic activity in the Indo-China region at the turn of the millennium have manifested in double-digit increases in international traffic, putting a strain on TIAs infrastructure (physical and service delivery). As a result, the Government of Nepal has undertaken several initiatives to improve airside and landside infrastructure.

Two new airports at Pokhara and Bhairawaha are scheduled to commence international operations in the coming years. Conveniently located at major tourist destinations, they are expected to alleviate some of the congestion at TIA. In addition, the geographical constraints of the proximal airspace at TIA and its solitary runway render the development of a new airport in the capital necessary within the next decade. The Government of Nepal has identified Nijgadh, in Bara, which is approximately 75 kilometres from Kathmandu, for the development a new international airport.

The development of world-class airport infrastructure would enhance Nepals connectivity with the rest of the world and accelerate economic development. It would also improve Nepals marketability as a tourist destination, thereby increasing tourism revenue, which would help fund the infrastructure required at regional airports.

Opportunities

Growth in air travellers

Nepal has experienced double digit growth in international air traffic since the turn of the century and the number of tourists is expected to increase in the coming years.

Approximately 1,700 Nepalis travel abroad every day for work, mainly to Malaysia, Qatar, UAE, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia.



Geo-strategic advantages

Nepal is strategically located between India and China offering the possibility to develop hub/transit airports.

As Nepal is a landlocked country with limited road networks, airplanes are a convenient way of transporting cargo and agricultural produce, as well as high value products.



Construction of new airports and management and operation of existing airports

The Government of Nepal plans to construct a new international airport in Nijgadh, Bara, which is about 75 kilometres south of Kathmandu.

The government is also considering public-private partnerships in the management and operation of existing airports, which presents opportunities for the expansion of non-aeronautical services (such as airport taxis, duty free shops, parking management, eateries, and recreational and hospitality facilities).

Source
Sector Overview

Nepal is rich in water resources with multiple sources of water, including glaciers, snowmelt from the Himalayas, rainfall and ground water. There are 6,000 rivers, including rivulets and tributaries, totalling about 45,000 km in length. The country is contains 2.2% of the worlds water resources.

Nepals theoretical capacity for producing power from hydropower projects is around 80,000 MW. However, as at 2014, installed capacity is only around 700 MW of electricity, despite the fact that demand is over 1,000 MW. Thus, Nepal remains one of the lowest energy consuming countries in the world. Demand for electricity is increasing at 79% per year, and according to the forecast from Nepal Electricity Authority, demand for electricity will reach 3,600 MW by 2027.

To deal with the shortage of electricity in Nepal, IBN and other government agencies have stepped forward to implement mega hydropower projects. In September 2014, Nepal signed its first Project Development Agreement (PDA, concession agreement) with a private developer, GMR LTD, to develop the Upper Karnali Hydropower Project, a 900 MW project. IBN has also signed another PDA with SJVNL, an Indian governmental entity, for the development of the 900 MW Arun III. The combined cost of these two projects exceeds USD 2.5 billion. In addition, Nepal has signed the Power Trade Agreement (PTA) with India, paving the way for the free flow of electricity as a commodity across the border.

There are several other mega power projects (above 500 MW) in the early stages of development, and IBN has the mandate to take these projects forward. These projects are a high priority for the government and various incentives are in place for investors.



View/ Download Energy Sector Profile:

Opportunities

Demand supply gap

Nepal is facing acute power shortages and huge opportunities exist in the hydropower sector for investors to meet this gap in demand.

Even with the recent hydropower developments, dry season power is expected to be insufficient to meet demand in the future.

Electricity consuming industries such as cement plants and fertilizer plants are on track for development, which will increase demand.



Export potential to India due to PTA

The PTA with India has opened up a large market for Nepali electricity in India.

As the PTA ensures non-discrimination against electricity from Nepal in the Indian market, there is vast potential to export electricity to the growing Indian power market.



New transmission infrastructure

As part of its plan to electrify the entire country, the Government of Nepal plans to construct extensive transmission infrastructure.

Nepal is formulating a Transmission Master Plan study to improve transmission infrastructure and private investment will be sought for this purpose.

Several cross-border connections are also planned

Source

Hydropower in Nepal

(Source: Website of Independent Power Producers' Association, Nepal (IPPAN), a member organization of FNCCI)



Nepal has a huge hydropower potential. In fact, the perennial nature of Nepali rivers and the steep gradient of the country's topography provide ideal conditions for the development of some of the world's largest hydroelectric projects in Nepal. Current estimates are that Nepal has approximately 40,000 MW of economically feasible hydropower potential. However, the present situation is that Nepal has developed only approximately 600 MW of hydropower. Therefore, bulk of the economically feasible generation has not been realized yet. Besides, the multipurpose, secondary and tertiary benefits have not been realized from the development of its rivers.

Although bestowed with tremendous hydropower resources, only about 40% of Nepal's population has access to electricity. Most of the power plants in Nepal are run-of-river type with energy available in excess of the in-country demand during the monsoon season and deficit during the dry season.

Read more at: http://www.ippan.org.np/HPinNepal.html




Sector Overview

Health

The Interim Constitution of Nepal 2007 recognises healthcare as a fundamental right of the Nepalese people. As at 2013/14, Nepal had over 4,485 health institutions, with 7,550 beds, employing over 93,000 personnel. In fiscal year 2013/14, 209,519 patients were admitted, 1,523,410 patients treated as outpatients, and 357,089 used emergency services in Nepal.

The total budget allocated for this sector is NPR 33.52 billion (USD 335 million), which is approximately 5% of the total budget. This figure has not changed much in the last couple of years. Capital expenditure allocated for this sector accounts for a mere 6.6% of the total capital expenditure in the last fiscal year. In terms of output, the average increase of output in this sector has been around 5% in the last few years.

The Ministry of Health and Population is currently implementing the Nepal Health Sector Programme-II. In this programme, the government focuses on essential health care services, such as population and family planning, safe motherhood, child health and child nutrition, communicable disease control, non-communicable diseases and injuries, mental health, eye, oral, and environmental health, and curative care. Although the country has made great strides in terms of the Millennium Development Goals, the state has not been able to invest much in this sector.

The Government of Nepal is prioritising this sector: a new health policy is in the process of being implemented and the government is committed to modernising health infrastructure. Similarly, it plans to engage in private-public partnerships to enhance the capacity of government hospitals. The government is also encouraging private investment in health. So far, private investment in primary and secondary health sectors has gone primarily to urban areas, especially the countrys capital. This sector has also seen some public-private partnerships in the form of community managed health institutions, service contracts, management contracts, and build-own-operate-transfer projects.

In terms of large physical infrastructure, there are 13 privately run medical colleges, 17 NGO-run hospitals, 17 eye hospitals, and 87 private research centres and nursing homes. Nepal has also experienced a rise in pharmaceutical companies and diagnostic research laboratories in the last few years.

Opportunities

Hospitals and healthcare centres

Opportunities exist in the heath sector for facilities offering:

Emergency services on a 24-hour basis particularly related to neonatal and maternal health needs

Centres of excellence and specialty for non-communicable diseases

Specialty and super-specialty treatment centres targeting the domestic population, to capture the market that currently goes abroad, particularly to India, for treatment

Centres combining healthcare facilities with tourism  medical tourism

Pharmaceutical companies



Health insurance

Most of the Nepali population are unaware of the existence of health insurance, creating vast scope for private companies seeking to cater to the uncovered population.



Pharmaceutical companies

There are persistent shortages of high quality drugs in the market.

Most drugs required to cure or treat serious disease and conditions are currently imported from India.

Source




Sector Overview Sector Overview

The IT sector is an emerging area in Nepal. The Government of Nepal has identified IT and business process outsourcing (BPO) as one of the 5 priority potential export service sectors in the Nepal Trade Integration Strategy (NTIS) 2010. IT has the potential to generate high growth, investment, and significant profits in the coming years and is expected to be one of the most significant growth contributors to the Nepali economy.

Business process outsourcing is a major emerging area in IT in Nepal. These IT entities are often referred to as ITES-BPO (informational technology enable services-business process outsourcing). The existing players in ITES-BPO in the market serve both the domestic and international market. Three types of companies are involved in the ITES-BPO sector: local solution providers focusing on the local market, export-oriented providers (e.g., offshore centre), and hybrid providers (both local and export oriented).

An IT Park is being established in Banepa in Kavre District. The total investment in this venture is estimated to be around NPR 270 million (USD 2.70 million). The government is preparing to give a 50% tax subsidy to companies operating in the Park. The Park is expected to develop software, promote IT-based business and provide services, as well as promote investors in related fields.

Opportunities

Low development costs

IT developer costs are, in general, lower in Nepal than in other South Asian countries.

Nepal has been able to propel itself into the international market to become an alternate offshore outsourcing location to India, Pakistan, and other Asian countries.

The Nepali time zone is favourable for companies looking to outsource from America and Europe.



Business consolidation

Many companies have consolidated their business in Nepal and developed a niche market for their products internationally (e.g., Verisk Health, Incessant Rain, Cloud Factory, D2Hawkeye, and Deerwalk)



IT Park

The Government of Nepal has shown serious commitment to establishing an IT Park with tax and other incentives.

First mover advantages can be reaped by investors interested in this sector.



Important Links

Source: Government of Nepal, Investment Board Federation of Nepal Cable Television Association - a member organization of FNCCI


The Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI) is the nationally and internationally recognized umbrella organization of business in Nepal. Organized as a representative body of business organizations in the country, it represents the interests of the private sector and is involved in promotion of socio economic development of Nepal through private sector led economic growth.



Membership Structure

Registered as a national representative chamber in pursuant of section 3 of the National Directives Act 1961 (Rastriya Nirdeshan Ain 2018) the FNCCI Membership is as follows.

The FNCCI Membership, at present, is comprised of: 114 District / Municipality Level Chambers in 77 Districts of Nepal (including 1 Observer chamber) [ View ]

in 77 Districts of Nepal (including 1 Observer chamber) [ ] 103 Commodity / Sectoral Associations [ View ]

[ ] 935 Leading public and private sector undertaking s [ View ]

s [ ] 20 Bi-national Chambers (including 8 observer chambers) [ View ] The FNCCI is represented in almost all national councils / boards / committees / policy advisory bodies concerned with business and industry.

Vision:

"Leading the Nation's Economic Progress"

Mission:

"Facilitating Nepalese Businesses Become Globally Competitive"

Objectives:

The FNCCI objectives are determined by its statute. The objectives are to

Promote the economic and social development of Nepal while protecting and defending the rights and interests of the business persons of the entire country.

Make effective and significant contribution to the development of open market economy while recognizing the changes taking place in the global arena.

Act as a supreme representative body of the trade and industry of the country while supporting the national goals of self reliant and independent national economy.

Foster cooperation with related national and foreign organisations

Functions:

The functions of The FNCCI are determined by its objectives. The work it has been involved in, during the recent past, includes:

Play a catalytic role in the business, industrial development in the country while establishing sound industrial relations in the country..

Reinforce business community's commitment to the society.

Provide advisory services to government, lobby as and when required in formulation and execution of business and industry related policies, acts and programs friendly to the private sector.

Foster cooperation with related Nepali and foreign Organizations.

Provide up to date information to the business, government and the country at large.

Create awareness and muster business and industry initiatives on issues like quality, social responsibility, Corporate governance, campaigns against HIV/AIDS, child labour, environment etc.

Functional Principles:

FNCCI- activities are guided by the following principles:




Sector Overview Sector Overview

Nepal lies in the centre of the 2,500 km Himalayan belt, which has favourable geography for various minerals (metallic, non-metallic, and fuel). As many as 63 minerals have been identified in Nepal. In 2010/11, 80 mines and quarries for 12 different minerals were in operation. Of these, 29 are limestone quarries and 6 gem mines. In 2011, mines and mineral-based industries contributed 2.4% to Nepals GDP.

Nepal has an abundance of minerals used in industrial and construction works including:

Limestone (most abundant)

Coal

Talc

Clay red

Granite and marble (identified, but not extensively explored)

Coal (with mines in Dang, Salyan, Rokpa and Palpa districts)

Gold (alluvial gold was exploited in the past and there is potential for primary gold mining)

Semi-precious and precious stones (tourmaline, aquamarine, ruby and sapphire)

The Department of Mines and Geology is engaged in the exploration and evaluation of mineral resources in Nepal and compiles and publishes consolidated information on the situation and potentialities of different minerals in the country. As per the Nepal Mines and Minerals Act 1986, the classification of minerals is done by type and importance:

Type: Metallic/non metallic/fuels/thermal springs

Importance: Very important/important/valuable/ordinary



The Department of Geology and Mines has discovered 1.07 billion tonnes of limestone deposits, of which 540 million tonnes are proven, 110 million tonnes are semi-proven, and 420 million tonnes are feasible deposits. These have been discovered in different districts including Udayapur, Dhankuta, Sindhuli, Makwanpur, Lalitpur, Dhading, Syangja, Arghakhachi, Sukhet, Dang, Salyan, Baitadi and Palpa.

As of January 2014, there are 44 cement plants in Nepal, of which only 12 have their own clinker production units. In the last two fiscal years, Nepal has imported cement worth approximately NPR 16 billion (USD 160 million). The cement industry has experienced a sudden surge in demand due to the construction taking place. It is estimated that Nepal imports about 1520% of the total cement consumed. The total FDI in this sector till date is approximately NPR 4.1 billion (USD 40 million).



Opportunities

Fuel minerals

In recent times, the western part of Nepal has witnessed gas and oil seepage, confirming the presence of oil and natural gas in Nepal.

About 10 petroleum and natural gas exploration sites have been identified.

Some petroleum companies have already sought licences.



Metallic minerals

Nepal has more than 20 million metric tonnes of ore reserves in more than 80 locations.

Copper occurs in Nepal in more than 107 locations.



Industrial minerals

Recent studies have shown that Nepal may have 2.5 billion metric tonnes of cement grade limestone.

Nepal has an estimated potential of 5 billion metric tonnes of dolomite and 180 million metric tonnes of high grade magnetite.

IBN has given foreign direct investment approval to 2 international cement companies to establish cement plants in Nepal.

Source
Public Private Partnership (PPP) Policy, 2072 (Nepali Version download): http://www.npc.gov.np/images/category/PPP_Policy_Final_Printable.pdf

The training program on Public Private Partnership (PPP)

The training program on Public Private Partnership (PPP) 16-20 January 2017.

The training program on Public Private Partnership organized by National Planning Commission in collaboration with Nepal Administrative Staff College commenced today at NASC Training Centre, Jawalakhel. In the inauguration of the program, Dr. Sunil Babu Shrestha, Honourable Member, National Planning Commission, highlighted on various aspects PPP concept and practice. He underlined the importance of PPP in the Nepalese developmental context, particularly in the development of physical and social infrastructure. He explained how the partnership can work out a win-win situation that can be rewarding for both public and private sectors. While explaining the objectives of the training program, he expressed his hope that the training program will contribute towards creating human resource base needed to translate the notion of public private partnership in reality. He also explained how the well designed and implemented PPP projects can be instrumental in transforming Nepalese infrastructure which is critical in realizing its goal of graduating to developing country by 2022. Dr. Shrestha acknowledged the fact that the necessary financial resources that will be needed for infrastructure will not be met only by the investment from the government. He emphasized that the resource gap can only be met through the investment by the private sector and hence, the importance of public private partnership is obvious. Dr. Shrestha has also shared the information that in the ongoing 14th plan the expected share of private sector investment is around 55 percent. He also appealed the participant to make the most from the opportunity as the organizers have made every effort to bring the best available resource persons in the country.Altogether 25 participants are participating in the program representing government, private sector, and media.



Download links below, for the presentations from the PPP Training Program 16-20 Jan 2016:

Presentation Dowlnoad link Governance: Beyond Government https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCmVm9zMVRveE1aRVk Introduction to Public Private Partnership

(by Dr. Sunil Babu Shrestha, Member, National Planning Commission) Global Practices in PPP Managment NPC 2017

(by Purusottam Man Shrestha, PPP Expert)



Glimpse of PPP (Video) https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_KcNAGEOkh_bkt5MzM2aEFzMTg



https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCmR1FXaHhZSUFudEU PUBLIC PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS FOR CREATING AND MANAGING URBAN INFRASTRUCTURE IN NEPALESE MUNICIPALITIES: A stock taking and future perspective

(by Maniram Singh Mahat, Executive Director, Town Development Fund) https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCmTklvMk9GbHktcHM Public Private Partnership (PPP) Models: Concepts, Issues and Examples

(by Surya R Acharya, PhD) https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCma0t3Njc1aFN4cVE PPP project Cycle and Feasibility Study

(by Dr. Raghu Bista, Nepal Administrative Staff College) https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCmZGpwNEhUZWpJejg Financing Model in PPP Projects

(by Madhu Prasad Bhetuwal, Joint Secretary, Investment Board Nepal) https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCmOHVibzlwNjBPMEE PROCUREMENT PROCESS- FOR PPP PROJECTS

(by Shakti Prasad Shrestha) https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCmRFpxaF8xN1QxZlU Project Cash Flow Analysis & Viability Gap Funding

(by Radhesh Pant, Former CEO, Investment Board Nepal) https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B0NqsEXMvOCmcUh3bjFabW9LbUU Access all the above presentations at once at: https://drive.google.com/open?id=0B_KcNAGEOkh_SVM4T2RlQ2tobGM )

















































National Workshop on Infrastructure Financing Strategies for Sustainable Development in Nepal

(Source: http://www.unescap.org/events/national-workshop-infrastructure-financing-strategies-sustainable-development-nepal Organizers:Date:24 Jan 2017Location:Kathmandu, Nepal

Recognizing the importance of infrastructure development for achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement, ESCAP organized on 24 January 2017 a national workshop on Infrastructure Financing Strategies for Sustainable Development in collaboration with the National Planning Commission, Government of Nepal.

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New tires

Thought I'd make a short post as a form of a thank you to all the owners on here who have posted their tire experiences, I was still running the OE Michelin tires with the odometer a little over 55k miles, but not all those miles were Michelin miles because I have a second set of wheels with snow rubber on them. I have enjoyed good success with Cooper tires in the past. So I was glad to see so many members give good reports on the Cooper Discoverer AT3's. I considered Toyo, Goodyear, and Les Schwab's Open Range tire, but I opted for the reliability, performance, and my personal satisfaction with Cooper's. I also considered the S/T Maxx, but I read some reports from Dodge and Ford diesel truck owners who said the cornering and general stability of the Maxx was not on par with the AT3's, and I didn't want a noisier tire for Spring - Fall use.So I opted to stay with stock size because in my mind, why push larger than a 34" tall tire? The truck is set up for that, and frankly, there was a time when I was happy with the performance of 33x1250's on my trucks and Bronco's. Also, so far in my running around mountain roads in Idaho I've not needed more height to compensate for how long this truck is. The new tires, AT3 XLT's, impressed me right away on the ride home! They drove smoother than the Michelins, and cornering was superior. Took the wife for a ride to get some dinner, and she also notice the ride was smoother. They act like they have a softer rubber and more forgiving sidewalls, but their load range and load index ratings are equal to the others, plus, they have a 60,000 mile warranty. Time will tell how they perform in mud and snow, but I have little doubt I will be happy. They also look good!
BeautyWorld Middle East 2021: The Perfume Diversity of Iberchem

Art Books Events

The Spanish company Iberchem presented several interactive perfume projects at the BeautyWorld Middle East 2021 exhibition. United under the umbrella name The World Of Scents, their scents greet the exhibition visitors not only at the company's stand. Created outside the framework of brands and briefs, they were made just for the visitors' pleasure and amusement. Today I will recall all these projects from BWME.

Moodzy by Iberchem

I first met the Iberchem company name in the Quintessence space dedicated to niche fragrances. It was a small booth in which you could say I feel tired/confused/stressed/anxious to the microphone and, upon this voice request, the machine would give you a cone blotter with a special fragrance applied to it.

The range of emotions was small  just four different emotions. As you can easily see, the Moodzy project (created in collaboration with Olorama and Scentis) is designed to help you deal with bad feelings, not to develop and prolong pleasant emotions. The mood is recognized only in the English language and in the exact phrase, but voice recognition is available in many languages, and there is nothing difficult to teach the analyzer the Russian or Japanese phrases. Hopefully, in the future there will be options for people who are happy, balanced, cheerful, and calm, or in these cases, is it enough to just wear any favorite scent?

Of course, I tried a couple of Moodzy by Iberchem scents. An invigorating citrus scent based on tangerine oil was ready to fight fatigue, and a gourmand woody scent, reminiscent of a nut cookie, with an anisic beginning, was intended for an anxious mood. It was really fun to play with! You can imagine what this idea could lead to in the future. For example, a scent in the office/automobile, which helps to cope with negative emotions. But this time Moodzy got my attention enough to drive me to the Iberchem stand.

ARomatic by Iberchem

The main Iberchem project at the exhibition was the experimental collection ARomatic: Fragrances Powered by Augmented Reality, fragrances connected with augmented reality to showcase Spain. If they say that a picture is worth a thousand words, then augmented reality is even more so. This collection was introduced to me by Sylvain Masse, Global Marketing Manager, who developed its concept.

The collection was inspired by Spanish landscapes, but in my opinion, Mediterranean Coast, North, Meseta, and South fragrances have painted their country's landscapes much better and brighter than the specialists of virtual reality and computer graphics. I would not say that perfumer Luz Vaquero accurately recreated the sea wind of the Mediterranean; she made it brighter and more varied: sea salt mixed with the smell of orange blossom, the freshness of the sea is supplemented with something like suntan lotion smell... Such a fragrance could be a perfect souvenir from Spain, but you cannot take the wind home. The forests of northern Spain, according to perfumer Encarni Llorente, have a fresh woody-earthy scent, and the south of Spain, according to Maria Angeles Santiago, still preserves the memory of the spicy honey-amber heritage of the Arabian Al-Andalus. The golden fields of wheat and sunflowers on the Meseta plains (with lavender, iris, amber, and vanilla) were portrayed by perfumer Ana Gomez in her powdery gourmand fragrance. Besides BWME, the collection was used in the Spain Pavilion at Dubai Expo 2020, showing the country's natural diversity.

In addition to these four scents, which create the diverse olfactory landscape of the country, one could sniff another perfume: an integrated olfactory image of Spain. It was created by Luz Vaquero, Iberchem Senior Perfumer, especially for the Spain Pavilion at Dubai World EXPO 2021. The scent of Spain is a fresh, fruity-citrus scent of neroli and orange blossom, highlighted by Hedione on a soft, woody-amber base  friendly and sunny.

The Art Of Maridaje + Synesthesia by Iberchem

Guillaume Audy, Iberchem Director of Corporate Communications and Sustainable Development, told me about other interesting experiments his company developed especially for BeautyWorld Middle East 2021.

GUILLAUME AUDY: Probably our coolest smell experience is in The Premium Club lounge at BWME, and The Art of Maridaje is a food and fragrance pairing experience. When you order a coffee, they propose a fragrance created by Iberchem perfumer Ana Gomez that complements the smell of coffee. For your coffee cup, we have a spicy scented blotter that enriches your coffee taste with a cinnamon accord smell.

GUILLAUME AUDY: Its not a body fragrance to develop over time; its less complex and more plain, but its good enough to last for the time of a coffee break. People love it and they want to smell more, but we have just a couple scents there. One for the coffee, and the other fragrance accord we developed for those who order a dessert. But people asked for something salty as well, to go with their lunch! Its really fun to eat and smell more at the same time.

What can I say? I ordered a double espresso and tasted it, sniffing the blotter after every sip of coffee. It's amazing how the sweet spicy perfume works in place of sugar and adds density and sweetness to the bitter aroma of coffee. This is a great couple! It turned out that Ana Gomez's scent is far from just the smell of cinnamon. It has a fruity shade of cognac and a cognac barrel (although my coffee was alcohol-free), and it has the dense sweetness of an amber accord, but there is no real cinnamon oil in it. This is a masterful illusion!

The second accord of Encarni Llorente  with notes of chocolate, nuts, caramel, and vanilla  also helped to enhance the aroma of traditional Middle Eastern desserts (nuts, honey, sugar syrup, and dough) with an additional thick chocolate and caramel accord.

GUILLAUME AUDY: Theres another collaboration with Stanpa (National Perfumery and Cosmetic Association of Spain) and BeautyWorld Middle East, which is placed in Spain's space at BWME; its name is SYNESTHESIA.

Over there, Iberchem perfumers explored the concept of synesthesia: how people perceive colors, smell, and countries. For example, if I say "Belgium," some people might smell chocolate, just after hearing the name. Or after "The Netherlands," you can smell cheese. So we played with it; its a little quiz.

The final touch to Iberchem's portrait was the festive red carpet scent that greeted guests at the BeautyWorld Middle East Awards 2021 on the first night of the exhibition. It added joy and glamour to the gala-dinner, and then disappeared from view, never interfering with the show and dinner  just like an excellent head waiter.

Excellent work by the Marketing and Communication departments of the Spanish company! If you visited BWME, you definitely came across the Iberchem logo and its fragrances and creative interactive projects, reminding us that fragrances are not only in branded bottles. For a Spanish company with 24 offices around the world and with 120 perfume and cosmetic brands and a thirst for development, it is very important to show fragrances and their possibilities from every possible angle.
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FILE  In this Oct. 15, 2021 file photo, smoke rises from the Feyzin Total refinery chimneys, outside Lyon, central France. The World Meteorological Organization says greenhouse gas concentrations hit a new record high last year and continued to increase at a faster clip than the average rate in the last decade, despite a temporary blip downward amid coronavirus-linked lockdowns. The U.N. weather agency, releasing its flagship annual report on heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere on Monday Oct. 25, 2021, said concentrations of carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are all above levels in the pre-industrial era pegged to before 1750, when human activities started disrupting Earths natural equilibrium.(AP Photo/Laurent Cipriani, file)
Work with your past self, create paradoxes to use to your advantage, and defeat an evil wizard (easy, right?)
The Oregon political world is in suspended animation as court challenges of 2022 redistricting maps have been filed.

A lawsuit was filed Monday  the final day possible  challenging the new redistricting maps for the legislature. A lawsuit against congressional maps is already pending, with opening arguments before a special judicial panel slated for Wednesday.

But the legal stumbling blocks don't stop everything from spinning in Salem and Washington, D.C.

Some of the action:

Keeping the gavel: House Speaker Tina Kotek, D-Portland, plans to remain in the chamber's top job while running for governor in 2022. Kotek advisor Thomas Wheatley said last week that Kotek will serve out the rest of her term  win or lose  until it ends in January 2023.

House rules prohibit members from fundraising while in session, but the state constitution limits the legislature to 35 days, scheduled for February and March.

New PAC to back a candidate in Oregon and Washington: Republican Alek Skarlatos is reaching across state lines to get a financial boost for his second run at the seat held by U.S. Rep. Peter DeFazio, D-Springfield in the 4th Congressional District.

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DeFazio defeated Skarlatos in 2020 by 5%, the closest race in the Democrat's 34-year congressional history. The two spent at least $8.3 million, making it Oregon's most expensive congressional race. Skarlatos is seeking a rematch.

The Federal Elections Commission reported Friday that the Stronger PNW PAC for Alek Skarlatos and Tiffany Smiley will also aid Smiley, who is a Republican running against U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, D-WA.

The new political action committee lists the treasurer as Chris Marston, an Alexandria, Virginia attorney specializing in election law. Skarlatos' initial report of the new PAC listed the treasurer as Lisa Lisker, a top GOP fundraiser based in Virginia who has created several PACs to aid candidates and already has ties to Smiley. Skarlatos later revised his filing to list Marston as the treasurer.

Any money from the new PAC will be in addition to the candidate's main PAC. The Alek for Oregon PAC reported it raised $744,844 this year, through Sept. 30, while spending $532,973. The DeFazio for Congress PAC reported raising just over $1.2 million this year while spending $428,285. DeFazio also reported he will receive support from the Portland-based Progressive Americans for Democracy PAC.

The district lines will be different next year because of redistricting required to reflect the 2020 U.S. Census. Under the Democratic-drawn plan, the 4th district would add more Democratic-leaning areas.

Skarlatos, a Roseburg resident, received acclaim for being among a small group of men who stopped a 2015 attack by an Islamic State extremist aboard a Paris-bound train. He was a member of the Oregon National Guard at the time.

Pennsylvania power: House Speaker Kotek is from York, Pennsylvania. Senate Peter Courtney is from Philadelphia. House Majority Leader Barbara Smith Warner is from Erie.

The trio of Keystone State-expatriates, all Democrats, already give a Pennsylvania touch to Oregon political power. But the trio could end up as governor and leaders of both legislative chambers if political stars align.

Kotek is running for governor and would have to win crowded primary and general election races to see if she can move her bowl of York Peppermint Patties to give to guests over to the governor's office.

Courtney has been widely rumored to be considering retirement instead of extending his role into the 2023 session.

Smith Warner would have to win re-election, then decide if she wanted to try for Kotek's job, which is being eyed by others in the 37-member Democratic caucus.

Brown appoints tribal leader to power council: Gov. Kate Brown has nominated Lewis Pitt, the director of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Reservation, to a seat on the Pacific Northwest Electric Power and Conservation Council. Pitt will finish the term of Chuck Sams, a former top administrator of the Confederated Tribes of Umatilla Indian Reservation, who resigned when President Joe Biden nominated him as National Parks Director. Sams is awaiting U.S. Senate confirmation. Pitt would start the $120,000-per-year position on Nov. 19 and serve through Jan. 15, 2024.

The Northwest Power and Conservation Council was established in 1980 to oversee long-term planning for the Columbia Basin, balancing energy and conservation needs. The governors of Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Montana each have two appointees.

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Oregon added 2,293 new confirmed and presumptive COVID-19 cases and 12 deaths during the weekend.

The Oregon Health Authority, in its Monday release, also noted that the server that hosts Opera, the COVID-19 database, was down from 6 p.m. Friday through 9 p.m. Saturday. OHA officials said that as a result the case counts are lower than expected and that releases for the next couple of days might have larger than normal caseloads.

Oregon now has 359,733 cases and 4,295 deaths. The day-by-day case updates showed 961 new cases Friday, 509 on Saturday and 823 on Sunday. There were no new deaths in Linn County or Benton County. Douglas County had five of the 12 deaths noted in Mondays weekend report.

Linn County recorded 131 new cases and has 13,048 since the beginning of the pandemic, with 131 deaths. Benton County registered 53 new cases and has 5,553 overall and 31 fatalities.

Presumptive cases are people without a positive diagnostic test who have COVID-19-like symptoms and had close contact with a laboratory-confirmed case. Presumptive cases make up less than 5% of the total cases, OHA has said.

In other results from the weekend reports:

Hospitalizations: COVID-19 patients were occupying 571 hospital beds statewide as of Sunday, 41 more than Saturday. The patient load in intensive care unit (ICU) beds was 123, one behind Saturdays total. A total of 91% of overall beds are taken, with 93% of ICU beds occupied statewide.

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.

Vaccinations: Oregon registered 8,359 new doses of vaccine during the weekend. More than 2.8 million individuals have received one dose of vaccine, with more than 2.5 million completing a vaccination series.

National numbers: The U.S. added 19,200 new cases and has a total of more than 45 million. A total of 734,752 deaths have been recorded, which includes 167 new deaths, according to the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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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At the recent Republican forum at the Elks Lodge, several candidates expressed concern with vote by mail in Oregon.

Apparently they do not know Republican history. Vote by mail was started by Republicans in the 1990s! An article in the GT gave an excellent history of vote by mail in Oregon, Vote by mail: Local activists helped lead the way.

In 1995, both legislative bodies, led by Republicans, sent a bill to then-Gov. John Kitzhaber authorizing vote by mail in Oregon. At the direction of the National Democratic Party, Kitzhaber vetoed it!

In 1997, a second attempt did not make it through the Senate. Finally in 1998, through bipartisan effort, the voters approved vote by mail for Oregon. Thank you, Republicans, for the initial efforts.

Keep national politics out of Oregon. Focus on what is best for Oregon! Obeying national politicians rather than doing what Oregonians want was wrong.

Louise Marquering

Corvallis

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Powell resident Layla Bradley had been a wildland forest fighter since 2018, promoted to the level of engine boss. She died Oct. 11 while on assignment at a fire in California.
Gillette, WY (82718)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy in the afternoon. A few flurries or snow showers possible. High 42F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 23F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn., Oct. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brunswick Corporation (NYSE:BC) announced today that it has named Keith Yunger as president of its Sea Ray boat brand, effective immediately. Yunger has been with Brunswick Corporation for 16 years in several leadership roles, including president of the Bayliner brand, and most recently, president of the Venture Group, which includes Brunswicks Bayliner, Heyday, Quicksilver and Uttern brands. Steve Langlais, who has served as Sea Ray president since 2019 is currently taking an extended medical leave of absence.

Steve has been a significant contributor to Brunswick, and we look forward to his recovery and return in a new capacity in the future, said Aine Denari, President, Brunswick Boat Group. Keith is very well respected in the marine industry and we are confident in his ability to lead one of the most iconic brands in recreational boating. His expertise and knowledge of Sea Ray will allow us to maintain the brands strong heritage and leadership position in the global boating marketplace.

I am looking forward to the opportunity to lead Sea Ray and continue the transformation of the brand, said Yunger. Sea Ray has a rich history of innovation, technology, and design, and together with our talented leadership team, we will continue to execute on our strategic growth strategy.

Yunger will retain his responsibilities for Venture Group until a replacement has been named.

ABOUT SEA RAY

Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., Sea Ray is the worlds leading creator of superior quality pleasure boats. For more than 60 years, Sea Ray has pushed the limits of performance and craftsmanship to elevate the boating experience. Each Sea Ray is designed to make every moment exceptional, supporting boaters unique lifestyles with a customized balance of unparalleled comfort and performance and world-class technology throughout. Learn more about the Sea Ray Experience at SeaRay.com.

ABOUT BRUNSWICK

Headquartered in Mettawa, Ill., Brunswick Corporations leading consumer brands include Mercury Marine outboard engines; Mercury MerCruiser sterndrive and inboard packages; Mercury global parts and accessories including propellers and SmartCraft electronics; Advanced Systems Group, including Simrad, Lowrance, C-MAP, B&G, RELiON, SemahTronix, MotorGuide trolling motors, Attwood, Mastervolt, Blue Sea Systems, and CZone parts and accessories, and ASG Connect integrated systems; Land N Sea, BLA, Paynes Marine, Kellogg Marine, and Lankhorst Taselaar marine parts distribution; Mercury and Quicksilver parts and oils; Bayliner, Boston Whaler, Crestliner, Cypress Cay, Harris, Heyday, Lowe, Lund, Princecraft, Quicksilver, Rayglass, Sea Ray, Thunder Jet and Uttern boats; Boating Services Network, Freedom Boat Club and Boat Class. For more information, visit Brunswick.com.
Pune, India, Oct. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to Fortune Business Insights, the global confectionery market size is projected to reach USD 242.53 billion by 2028, registering a CAGR of 3.8% during the forecast period. Rising health consciousness among consumers will play a key role in augmenting the growth of this market, shares Manufactured chocolate bars and candies are known to contain large amounts of artificial sweeteners.

With the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related disorders, even the most ardent chocolate-lovers are getting increasingly inclined towards organic and natural ingredients-based products. For example, the Swiss chocolate maker Barry Callebauts research found that the market value for organic chocolates currently stands at 30 million in Western Europe alone. This figure shows that the shifting consumer preference for chocolate and other confectionery items made from naturally-derived extracts will lead the confectionery market trends in the foreseeable future.

According to the confectionery market report, the value of this market stood at USD 188.52 billion in 2020. The report further contains answers to the following questions:

What are the major factors driving the market?

What are the main hurdles that the market is facing and will face in the future?

What are the key market segments?

Which region or regions hold the largest potential for the market to grow?

How are the competitive dynamics shaping the market?

Who are the prominent players in this market and what are their key strategies?





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Key Market Driver

Hectic Lifestyles to Foster Sales Opportunities

Global economic growth and development have led to an explosion of job and business opportunities. Greater access to education and skill development have expanded the number of employable people around the world, resulting in more working people and more office spaces, especially in large urban conglomerations. As a result, modern lifestyles have become more hectic and stressful, with unfortunate consequence being on health and fitness of people. Therefore, many consumers are now demanding on-the-go confectionery snacks, preferably having low sugar and fat.

Chocolate, owing to its numerous health benefits, is the most consumed confectionery product in the world, and many companies are now developing sugar-free and organic chocolate items to cater to the health-conscious urban populace. Furthermore, chocolate consumption has positive physiological effects. The Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center in California found, through a research study, suggested that chocolate consumption positively impacts brain health and reduces stress and inflammation.





Competitive Landscape

Launch of Natural Extracts-derived Products to Spur Competition

The confectionery market forecast envisages a period of cutthroat competition in this market as companies deploy various strategies to meet the escalating demand for organic confectionery items. Besides this, many players are also attempting to broaden their business horizons by introducing novel offerings in foreign markets.





List of Key Players Covered in Confectionery Market Report:

Super Confectionery

Ezaki Glico Co., Ltd.

The Hershey Company

Mondelez International

Ferrero SpA

HARIBO GmbH & Co. KG

Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprungli AG

Meiji Holdings Co., Ltd.

Nestle S.A.

Barry Callebaut





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Regional Analysis

Europe to Lead the Pack; Asia-Pacific to Showcase Excellent Growth Trajectory

With a market share of 39% in 2018, Europe is slated to dominate the confectionery market share in the coming years, primarily on account of high consumption chocolate items. Consumers are increasingly demanding premium and customized confectionery products and are willing to pay for such items, prompting companies to manufacture and deliver superior offerings in the region.

Asia-Pacific holds tremendous growth opportunities for this market owing to rising disposable income, increasing young and working-age population, and rapid urbanization. As a result, many players are implementing different strategies to establish themselves in the Asia-Pacific region, especially China and India.





Key Industry Developments:

July 2020: Nestle, the Swiss multinational, created a new chocolate product with no added sugar, enabling its loyal customers to enjoy the companys 70% dark chocolate wholesale. Called the Cacao Fruit Chocolate, the product will be infused with natural cacao pulp which will function as the sweetener for the chocolate.

Nestle, the Swiss multinational, created a new chocolate product with no added sugar, enabling its loyal customers to enjoy the companys 70% dark chocolate wholesale. Called the Cacao Fruit Chocolate, the product will be infused with natural cacao pulp which will function as the sweetener for the chocolate. May 2018: The Swiss chocolate manufacturer Barry Callebaut opened the first chocolate center in Africa called the CHOCOLATE ACADEMY. Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, the academy will focus on teaching training budding chocolate-makers, professionals, and enthusiasts with the latest trends and technologies of the confectionery world.





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Detailed Table of Content:

Introduction Research Scope Market Segmentation Research Methodology Definitions and Assumptions

Executive Summary

Market Dynamics Market Drivers Market Restraints Market Opportunities Emerging Trends

Key Insights Overview on Related/Parent Market Global Chocolate Consumption Trend Global Cocoa Production Trend Supply Chain Analysis Industry SWOT Analysis Recent Industry Developments - Mergers & Acquisitions, Expansions, Partnerships, and Investments

Global Confectionery Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2015-2028 Key Findings / Summary Market Size Estimates and Forecast By Type Chocolate Sugar Gums By Distribution Channel Hypermarket/Supermarket Convenience Stores Departmental Stores Online Retail By Region North America Europe Asia Pacific South America Middle East & Africa



TOC Continued!





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Have a Look at Related Market Insights:

Confectionery Ingredients Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Dairy Ingredients, Cocoa & Chocolate, Emulsifiers, Others), By Source (Natural, Synthetic), By Application (Chocolate Confectionery, Sugar Confectionery, Bakery Confectionery) and Regional Forecast, 2020-2028

Bio Vanillin Market Size , Share & Industry Analysis, By Application (Bakery and Confectionery, Food Services Sector, Pharmaceuticals, Others)Others and Regional Forecast, 2020-2028

Snack Food Products Market Size, Share and Global Trend By Product Type (Bakery Snacks, Frozen Snacks, Confectionery Snacks, Salted Snacks), Distribution Channel (Hypermarkets/Supermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online Channels, Convenience Stores), and Geography Forecast till 2028





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Fortune Business Insights offers expert corporate analysis and accurate data, helping organizations of all sizes make timely decisions. We tailor innovative solutions for our clients, assisting them to address challenges distinct to their businesses. Our goal is to empower our clients with holistic market intelligence, giving a granular overview of the market they are operating in.





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Read Press Release on Confectionery Market:
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Benjamin Hill Mining Corp. (CSE: BNN) (OTCBB: BNNHF) (BHM or the Company) is pleased to announce the appointment of Sergio Garcia as Chief Financial Officer. Sergio holds a Masters Degree from the Western Institute of Business Capacitation in Guadalajara and graduated in Public Accounting from University of Sonora. Mr. Garcia has most recently served as General Accountant for Benjamin Hill Mining Corps Mexican operating subsidiary. Prior to that, Sergio performed duties as a Tax Auditor for the Tax Administration Service (SAT), and as a General Accountant for DFK International, in Hermosillo Sonora, and is a former auditor for Sonora Professional.



On behalf of the Board of Directors and the Executive Team, the Company would like to thank Paloma Pantoja for her dedicated service to the development of the company and related projects at Benjamin Hill Mining and wish her success in her future endeavors.

Option Grant

The Company would also wish to announce that it has entered into stock option agreements granting the right and option to purchase 475,000 common shares of the Company at $0.43 per common share, exercisable in whole or in part on or before five years from October 25, 2021.



On behalf of the Board of Directors

Cole McClay, CEO Benjamin Hill Mining Corp.

info@benjaminhillmining.com

Forward Looking Statements

Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, information concerning the Company's intentions with respect to the development of its mineral properties. Forward-looking information is based on the views, opinions, intentions and estimates of management at the date the information is made, and is based on a number of assumptions and subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those anticipated or projected in the forward-looking information (including the actions of other parties who have agreed to do certain things and the approval of certain regulatory bodies). Many of these assumptions are based on factors and events that are not within the control of the Company and there is no assurance they will prove to be correct. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws, or to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of the Company, its financial or operating results or its securities. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. We seek safe harbour.




Jakarta, Indonesia, Oct. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading Indonesian nickel mining company Luminos Graha is pleased to announce that renowned Sino electric car company BYD has recently expressed interest in its state-of-the-art blockchain-based Indonesia Sulawesi Nickel Mining Mega Project, Luminos Mining Protocol. Luminos Graha is driven by the mission to revolutionize the traditional nickel mining sector through blockchain support and has recently attained government endorsement from Sulawesi Central Government for the project.



Luminos Graha represents a collaborative endeavor between Luminos Graha Group and Geneva Capital Singapore, the major Singapore-based investment firm.

In an exclusive interview, Andri, the CEO of Luminos Graha, shared that BYD is looking to sign a joint venture agreement to venture into the nickel mining operation in Indonesia with assistance from Industrial Experts of Luminos Graha Group. Luminos Graha Group has access to 8 different mining concessions, with a total production focus of up to 800,000 tonnes a month of nickel. The company launched its blockchain project earlier this year -the project has been garnering attention in huge scale from several institutions and government agencies ever since its inception.

We are excited to share with you all that China Electric Car Giant BYD has recently expressed interest in our cutting-edge Indonesia Sulawesi Nickel Mining Mega Project, Luminos Mining Protocol. We are aware of the increasing demand for nickel worldwide, especially given the rising popularity of electric vehicles. And we are aspiring to scale up our mining operations up to 800,000 tonnes a month of nickel and it would be a pleasure to support BYD in its eco-friendly electric car initiative. We are grateful to BYD for believing in us and we are looking forward to a proliferating partnership with them, stated Andri.

BYD is not the first Chinese mega firm that has been looking at Indonesia nickel mining. Earlier last year, Sinohydro also expressed interest with Luminos Graha Group in supporting the Chinese One Belt One Road initiative and providing nickel supply.

An esteemed name in the nickel mining space for more than 20 years now, Luminos Graha Group boasts an excellent track record for maintaining industry-standard operational practices. Aimed to modernize the traditional nickel mining sector, the company has adopted a real business application approach utilizing blockchain technology to connect the DeFi system with offline businesses to resolve real world problems.

Per the statements of Andri, the Luminos Mining Protocol has been designed to resolve the problems existing in the conventional nickel mining sector. Workers in nickel mines often complain about operational safety issues- on the other hand, the risk and cost of accessing high-quality ores have jumped up to an exorbitant rate. Besides, nickel miners are facing challenges with verification of traceable activities and maintaining accuracy of information. Moreover, the traditional nickel mining chain is overly complicated.

Our cutting-edge blockchain-based Luminos Mining Protocol is designed to assure safe operational conditions inside nickel mines. Our project will also work to guarantee the quality of ore with an au5thentic quality certificate. Moreover, the incorporation of blockchain technology will keep the transactions traceable and simplify the existing complicated mining value chain.

For more information, please visit https://luminosmining.com

Website: https://luminosmining.com
HOUSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Headworks International Inc. and Glan Agua Ltd. announced today that the companies have entered into a strategic channel partnership which will aim at winning and implementing wastewater treatment projects in Ireland, merging both parties' relevant technological and construction solutions and expertise.

The Agreement brings together Headworks International, a global provider of Biofilm technologies for wastewater reuse and treatment including Moving Bed Biofilm Reactor (MBBR), Integrated fixed film activated sludge (IFAS), Anammox processes, and Glan Agua, a leader in the design, building and operation of water and wastewater solutions for municipal and industrial infrastructures in Ireland and the UK.

"This collaboration will significantly strengthen both of our companies' presence in the Irish wastewater market, offering an improved and seamless client experience in the execution of wastewater enhancement projects," said Headworks' CEO Michele LaNoue.

"Ireland is an important market for us, with its varied population demographic given its high population density, aging existing infrastructure, and tight effluent discharge regulations. Together with Glan Agua, we offer proven retrofit solutions which increase capacity and improve performance without additional expansion, as well as efficient, easy-to-operate greenfield plants with smaller-than-conventional plant footprints. The opportunities to jointly contribute to better water quality while reducing carbon footprint and energy savings is an exciting time," explained Afnan Din, VP of Global Sales.

"Innovation is Glan Agua's strong suit," affirms Innovation Manager Dr. Fabio Bacci. "As a BDO contractor and process engineering firm, we hold an ideal position to introduce technologies to market. Our open innovation strategy revolves around business development alliances to enhance our solutions' portfolio," he said. "Forging a channel partnership with Headworks International is a vibrant example of complementary engineering teams merging expertise and solutions to provide exclusive market offerings. Headworks International are ideal expert partners to Glan Agua; this collaboration will deliver solutions aimed at abating environmental impact caused by construction whilst improving quality of effluent and, consequently, Irish ambient water."

About Headworks International Inc.

Headworks International Inc. (www.headworksinternational.com) is one of the oldest independent wastewater technology providers in the biological sector, including one of the two originators of MBBR/IFAS technology, with over 30 years of experience in municipal, industrial, and marine applications. Its highly respected team of process design experts applies proven technologies for water reuse with discharge effluents meeting stringent BOD, Nitrification, and Total Nitrogen levels while reducing overall footprint. The team strives to lead the industry in improvements to water quality for release into the environment or reuse for sustainability of this important natural resource.

About Glan Agua Ltd.

Glan Agua and Glan Agua UK are DBO and MEICA contractors operating at Tier1 level in the Irish and UK municipal and industrial water markets. We strive to bring innovative solutions for the water and wastewater industry, a trait that sustained our rapid growth in both markets. Our strength comes from dedicated expert teams in civil, mechanical, process design, control and automation. Perhaps one of our greatest assets is our expertise in operation. Glan Agua Ltd currently operates over 50 water and wastewater plants in Ireland and it is this knowledge, coupled with effective feedback to our dedicated departments, that gives us the opportunity to continually improve the quality of our offerings.

Media Contacts:

Gerald Seidl

Sr. Vice President, Headworks International

E: gseidl@headworksintl.com

P: +1 713 647 6667

Tony Williams

Headworks UK Representative

AVW SCL, Chester, United Kingdom

E: tony.avw@outlook.com

Mobile: 00 44 (0) 7901 517747







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English Danish

Together with patient organizations, healthcare professionals and other groups, Coloplast has supported a project through the companys Access to Healthcare programme advocating for better access to hydrophilic catheters for people living with neurogenic bladder dysfunction in Poland.

With the new scheme, the Polish Ministry of Health has decided to significantly improve reimbursement for hydrophilic catheters, bringing it on par with the European standard. It will impact thousands of people living with neurogenic bladder dysfunction such as spinal cord injured or children living with spina bifida.

We are committed to raising the standard of care for people with intimate healthcare conditions around the world. I am pleased to see that more people with neurogenic bladder dysfunction in Poland will now get access to products that will enable them to lead full and dignified lives, says Coloplasts CEO Kristian Villumsen.

Using hydrophilic catheters instead of uncoated catheters, the current standard in Poland, is clinically proven to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections1  a critical complication associated with catheterization. Coloplast looks forward to December 1st when the improved reimbursement takes effect and the transition to hydrophilic catheters begins.

I admire the many different groups, from patient organizations to urologists, who have put in a persistent amount of work to raise awareness of what better catheterization means for quality of life. This is a breakthrough for the thousands of adults and children living with neurogenic bladder dysfunction. Now it is our task to ensure that the transition to hydrophilic catheters is backed with the right training and care, says Hubert Niemyjski, Country Manager of Coloplast Poland.

To support a successful transition to hydrophilic catheters, Coloplast will focus on training healthcare professionals on the correct use of hydrophilic catheters. Coloplast will also place great emphasis on educating and supporting users through the Coloplast Care programme.

Coloplasts Access to Healthcare programme was established in 2007 and aims to raise the standard of care, provide users with a voice, and advocate for better care and reimbursement with healthcare policy makers around the world.

1Rognoni and Tarricone BMC Urology (2017) 17:4
PORTO, Portugal, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ubirider, creator of Pick, a digital platform for cities, riders and transport providers which helps to move people, information and payments seamlessly, today announced that Fertagus, a commuter rail operator connecting Lisbon, Portugal's capital, to the Setubal Peninsula, has integrated the Pick Platform into its mobility solution. With Pick Hub, Fertagus riders can use the mobile app to plan and book trips on public transportation in the Lisbon metropolitan area, as well as plan trips throughout the country and anywhere in the world.

"Mass transit operators are in need of improving their service and the riders' experience to increase ridership, but also to comply with the unavoidable paradigm of using smartphones and digital tools to buy and ride. Pick allows transit operators to efficiently manage their operations and riders' touchpoints through powerful digital tools and real-time information," said Paulo Ferreira dos Santos, CEO and founder of Ubirider. "At the same time, we help each operator to integrate its service in larger transit networks, building information and payments interoperability which are the key point to a seamless, enjoyable experience for the rider. Nowadays, efficient travel only exists if there is a digital layer enhancing the transportation service. Offering value to both providers and riders is where Pick is different from all other solutions on the market."

Fertagus Expands Riders Ability to Travel Globally

The first private train company to operate in Portugal, and serving 85,000 passengers daily, Fertagus has adopted Pick Hub as its mobile app to improve rider experience and also enable riders to plan, book and pay for public transportation.

"Providing our customers with an exceptional experience and making their lives easier is our number one focus at Fertagus," said Clara Esquivel, Managing Director at Fertagus. "We know that 44% of our customers say that they are less stressed about their travels using our service and now, using Pick Hub, that number will only increase. Enabling our customers to refill travel passes, plan and book travel that includes other methods of transportation including Fertagus only helps to make the journey more seamless and easy, which is our main focus. We are excited about our partnership with Ubirider and look forward to continuing to improve our riders' travel experiences."

A Flexible, Comprehensive Platform

Ubirider has built Pick as an independent platform to connect and help both travellers and transport operators provide more seamless travel experiences. The mobile app Pick Hub, available through the Apple Store, Google Play, and App Gallery, allows users to plan door-to-door travel, pay and ride to all destinations, everywhere, using the best transport combination. Through Pick, both the MobiCascais app and Fertagus are integrated with the monthly transit pass systems for the Metropolitan Area of Lisbon, which includes 18 municipalities. This makes Pick Hub the only mobile app in the region which enables users to buy and recharge physical passes directly through the app and using their smartphones' NFC (Apple, Android, Huawei), eliminating the need to wait in line.

Fertagus will integrate the Pick Insight web interface, which collects anonymized information from travellers' smartphones, enabling transit operators to benefit from a new, independent and transparent channel to manage ridership and fare collection in real time, without additional infrastructure.

To learn more and download the Pick Hub app, visit https://www.pick.ubirider.com/ or https://www.fertagus.pt/.

About Ubirider

Ubirider has built Pick, a mobile and web platform that combines traditional and modern ways of transportation, aligned with the interests and needs of occasional travellers, commuters and mobility operators. Pick Hub is a mobile app that works out the best option for every journey  whether that's public transport, a rental car or a bike share. From office commutes to weekend getaways, it manages daily travel in the smartest way possible. For more information, visit www.ubirider.com.

Media Contact

Angela Costa Simoes

415-302-2934

asimoes@ubirider.com

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LONDON, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Proxymity, the pioneering investor communication platform backed by a consortium of the some of the world's largest global custodians, today announced that J.P. Morgan's Securities Services has gone live on its digital proxy voting platform in Belgium, to be followed by France. Additional markets planned to go live before the 2022 proxy seasons include Australia and New Zealand, with others set to follow next year.

J.P. Morgan's connectivity with Proxymity going live in France and Belgium

Australia & New Zealand planned to go live ahead of 2022 Proxy Season

J.P. Morgan using Proxymity's platform to improve client service, increase transparency and reduce complexity

Via Proxymity's dedicated proprietary connections to issuers and issuer agents, the platform enables "golden source" meeting announcements and agendas to be published directly from issuers to investors. Investors can then send votes in real time to issuers or their agents without the need for manual intervention and receive true digital confirmation that their votes have been cast, improving communication and transparency for everyone in the ecosystem.

Proxymity's digital-native platform has been built on highly scalable technology which ensures secure end to end connectivity between issuers, issuer agents, custodians, and investors, providing transparency to all participants in the proxy voting chain. In addition, provides full compliance with the latest regulations such as the Shareholder Rights Directive (SRD II).

For J.P. Morgan's Securities Services clients, the connection with Proxymity means that J.P. Morgan will be able to use Proxymity's unique Direct-to-Issuer connections in select markets, substantially improving investors' voting experience and creating more time for them to make critical decisions on their investments, while providing improved transparency.

"Investor communications is being transformed by replacing legacy manual processes with smart digital automation," said Hannah Elson, Head of Global Custody, J.P. Morgan's Securities Services. "Working with Proxymity reflects our commitment to providing the most innovative solutions to improve client experience while reducing the cost and complexity of providing even higher levels of service. We look forward to being one of the first major global custodians to go live on this platform."

Dean Little, Co-Founder and CEO of Proxymity, said: "We are proud to be working with J.P. Morgan to extend Proxymity's solutions to their clients across the world. We believe these innovations will help intermediaries continue to grow their businesses and provide the quality of service that has made them so successful to date. This fantastic milestone was made possible by the agility and dedication of the J.P. Morgan and Proxymity teams and is a great example for the industry of what can be achieved through technology and partnership."

In 2020, as part of an industry-leading consortium, J.P. Morgan invested in Proxymity, recognising the benefits of a widely adopted platform across the investment ecosystem. The growing worldwide focus on ESG and shareholder transparency, as reflected in global regulation, has accelerated the continuing trend towards digital transformation in custody and asset servicing.

About Proxymity

Proxymity's pioneering investor communications platform connects issuers, intermediaries, and investors in real-time via its unique digital pathway, bringing efficiency, accuracy, and transparency to every participant in the global custody chain.

Our solutions give public companies confidence that their AGM/EGM agendas are transmitted as "golden source" and provide institutional investors with the time they need to research and vote on corporate decisions, as well as actual digital confirmation that their votes have been received.

Proxymity promotes enhanced environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) by improving communication between issuers and investors and making it easier for intermediaries to be efficient, timely and compliant when servicing their clients.

The company is backed by a global consortium of the industry's most influential financial institutions (BNY Mellon, Citi, Clearstream, Computershare, Deutsche Bank, HSBC, J.P. Morgan, State Street).

For more information, visit www.proxymity.io

Proxymity press contact: K.omenaka@proxymity.io

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Pune, India, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The global Motorcycle market size is expected to reach USD 485.67 Billion by 2028, exhibiting a CAGR of 7.2% during the forecast period. The increasing acceptance of two-wheeled motor vehicles among youths will accelerate the market growth in the forthcoming years. The market size stood at USD 278.07 billion in 2020.

The motorcycle industry experienced a mixed impact from the COVID pandemic. The disruption and halt on production and manufacturing activities inhibited the demand and supply of these vehicles during the pandemic. However, the drastic change in consumer demand has resulted in high demand for private transportation, which, in turn, will spur opportunities for the market. Also, the risks concerning the spread of coronavirus in public transports will fuel the demand for motorbikes, thus aiding the market.





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Collaboration of Bosch with Ducati to Stimulate Growth

On December 17th, 2019, the biggest Ducati event in the World, Bosch showcased a series of theoretical and practical activities that explained the theme of safety, joined with driving pleasure, in the foreground. Bosch has renewed its presence together with Ducati in the Ducati Riding Experience (DRE) Road driving course, after the inauguration of 2017. The event was held at Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli. Bosch and Ducati have validated their avant-garde security field in synergy with safety protocols to build net-gen motorbikes. These companies have designed new systems to diminish accidents without tweaking the driving experience through their innovative technologies.

Furthermore, the increasing government initiatives for the promotion of electric bikes will bode well for the market. For instance, in June 2019, the Indian government announced a plan to reduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on electric vehicles from 12% to 5% to accelerate the country's acceptance of electric vehicles.





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Introduction of Futuristic Bikes to Support Business

Companies are introducing motorbikes with cutting-edge technologies and advanced features, delivering safety, comfort, and luxury for their users. The growing awareness regarding anti-lock braking systems (ABS) among riders will boost motorbikes' sales in the forthcoming years. For instance, Honda announced that it would increase the installation of advanced braking systems due to its commitment to the European Road Safety Charter. This factor will back the demand for motorcycles across the world. ABS uses throttle control and inertial measurement (IMU) data to maintain the bike's stability during sharp turns and emergency stops. Moreover, manufacturers are also introducing hands-free Bluetooth options in helmets to improve connectivity and provide easy navigation to riders, which, in turn, can contribute to the market.

The Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) Segment to Account for the Lions Share

Based on type, the market is segmented into standard, sports, and cruiser. The standard motorcycle segment holds the largest share in the global market.

Based on the propulsion type, the market is segmented into internal combustion engines (ICE) and electric propelled vehicles. The internal combustion engine (ICE) segment is expected to account for a major share in the global market. The electric segment is expected to hold a significant motorcycle market share due to the growing vehicular emissions. Geographically, the market is classified into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa.





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Increasing Consumer Inclination towards Bikes to Boost Market in Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific stood at USD 110.41 billion in 2020. The growth is attributed due to a large middle-class population.

North America is expected to account for the largest share during the forecast period due to the high demand for an extensive range of motorcycles such as standard, sports, cruisers, and touring.

The presence of unconventional manufacturing hubs will augment Growth in Europe.

Honda to Dominate the Motorcycle Market

Honda Motor Co., Ltd., a major manufacturer in the world. The company is one of the leading internal combustion engine producers, with more than 14 million internal combustion engines per year. In 2019, the total production volume had reached up to 400 million units. The company expects to offer mobility advancements through its world-class technologies and provide unrivaled safety for its riders. Eicher Motors, Yamaha, Bajaj, and TVS Motors are also improving their technologies to reinforce their position in the motorcycle industry.





The Report Lists the Key Companies in the Global Motorcycle Market

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Shizuoka, Japan)

Piaggio & C.SpA (Pontedera, Italy)

TVS Motor Company Ltd. (Chennai, India)

Yamaha Motors Co. (Shizuoka, Japan)

Suzuki Motor Corporation (Shizuoka, Japan)

Triumph Motorcycles (Hinckley, United Kingdom)

Zero Motorcycles, Inc. (California, United States)

Bayerische Motoren Werke (BMW) AG (Munich, Germany)

Harley-Davidson, Inc. (Wisconsin, United States)

Hero MotoCorp Ltd. (New Delhi, India)





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Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 Forecast Period 2021 to 2028 CAGR 7.2% 2028 Value Projection USD 485.67 billion Base Year 2020 Market Size in 2021 USD 298.58 billion Historical Data for 2017 to 2019 No. of Pages 200 Segments covered Type, Propulsion Type, and Geography Growth Drivers Adoption of Advanced Technologies by the Makers to Boost the Market Growth Increasing Demand for Motorcycles to Promote the Market Growth





Global Motorcycle Market Segmentation:

By Type:

Standard,

Sports

Cruiser

By Propulsion Type:



ICE

Electric

By Geography

North America (USA, Canada)

Europe (UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Scandinavia and Rest of Europe)

Asia Pacific (Japan, China, India, Australia, Southeast Asia and Rest of Asia Pacific)

Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, Rest of Latin America)

Middle East & Africa (South Africa, GCC, and Rest of Middle East & Africa)





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MIAMI, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HDS Companies, the leading provider of affordable housing software and services to U.S.-based HFAs, announced its acquisition of Allita 360. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Supporting Affordable Housing for over 23 years, Housing and Development Software and eHousingPlus business lines focus on the Multifamily Origination, Compliance, Section 8, Homeownership and Funds & Grants Management markets via their HDS NextGen Solutions.

Allita 360 is dedicated to providing full turnkey solutions to the non-profit sector focusing on housing, development, and grant management. Allita 360's software and services have been utilized at Ohio, Oregon, Minnesota, and Kansas agencies.

Through this acquisition, HDS Companies will expand innovative technologies and services in the marketplace to include Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF), Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA), Hardest Hit Funds (HHF), Blight Programs (BP), and Program Compliance (PC).

"This strategic transaction will broaden our product line and expand our direct services to create unique capabilities that further serve the Affordable Housing and Community Development Markets," said Cristina Miranda Gilson, Founder, and CEO at HDS Companies. "We are all looking forward to acquiring Allita 360 and the strategic opportunities ahead."

Brian Greenwood, President at Allita 360, and his team will work with Elena Miranda, Vice President of Business Development, who will lead the transition for the HDS Management team. Abdul Mondol, President of the HDS Software Division, Paloma Miranda, Sr. Vice President of Services, and Andrew Moffitt, CTO/CISO will support the transition and related services.

"We are thrilled to pass Allita 360 to the HDS Companies. The synergies between the two companies, and the stewardship HDS Companies offers our combined clients in this acquisition, will provide an incredible opportunity to further grow technologies and services for the Housing industry," said Brian Greenwood, CEO at Allita 360.

For more information, please contact Elena Miranda, VP Business Development at elena@hdsoftware.com or 954.384.1959.

ABOUT HDS Companies

Founded in 1998, Housing and Development Services, Inc. (HDS Companies), through its two business divisions, Housing and Development Software and eHousingPlus , is the leading provider of diverse business solutions and professional technical services in the U.S. Affordable Housing and Community Development Marketplace. HDS has collaborated with more than 150 State and Local Agencies throughout the continental United States and has remained on top of its game for the last 23 years.

MEDIA CONTACT

Rixys Alfonso

rixys@causemomarketing.com

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OAKVILLE, Ontario, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Terrestrial Energy has awarded BWXT Canada Ltd. engineering design contracts for steam generators and heat exchangers for use in the Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR), a Generation IV nuclear power plant. These awards are a continuation of the multi-year collaboration between Terrestrial Energy and BWXT Canada for steam-supply systems and follows an engineering services agreement initially signed by the two companies for design of steam generators in December 2018.



The IMSR steam-supply system comprises a series of heat exchangers, which transfer the zero-emissions thermal energy from the reactors heat exchangers to a steam generator for turbine operation, and high efficiency electric power generation, which is a unique benefit of the IMSR design. Steam supply is a critical element of electrical power plant operation and BWXT Canada excels in this field. It is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of steam-supply systems for the nuclear industry, and it is qualified to nuclear industry codes and standards.

After three years of close engagement with Terrestrial Energy, we have developed innovative and manufacturable technology for the IMSR that will support its deployment domestically and internationally, said John MacQuarrie, President of BWXT Canada. Our relationship with Oakville-based Terrestrial Energy positions BWXT Canada and its Ontario operations to share in the benefits of successful IMSR deployment.

These awards with BWXT Canada are another important milestone in our program of major component procurement, and we are excited by the prospect of BWXT Canada designing and manufacturing these components for the IMSR. We are fortunate to be located in Oakville with excellent access to the Ontario nuclear supply chain, which has a long history of major component development and of specialist nuclear equipment supply and services, said Simon Irish, CEO of Terrestrial Energy. The Canadian IMSR supply chain we have been assembling systematically over several years maintains our schedule for first IMSR power plant operation in Canada as early as 2028 and underscores our leadership position in the Small Modular Reactor market.

The Terrestrial Energy IMSR power plant is one of three Small Modular Reactor (SMR) power plant designs under consideration for deployment at Ontario Power Generations Darlington Nuclear Generating Station. It is one of two Generation IV SMR technology candidates under consideration by OPG, and the IMSR is the only Canadian SMR technology candidate.

Terrestrial Energys Oakville operation represents the largest SMR power plant technology development project in Canada. Terrestrial Energy announced on September 14 its upgraded IMSR400 power plant, which consists of twin IMSRs and generators to produce 390 MW of clean electricity from one facility.

About Terrestrial Energy

Terrestrial Energy is a developer of small and modular nuclear power plants that use its proprietary Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR) technology. IMSR is non-Light Water Reactor and Generation IV technology and will generate electricity 50 percent more efficiently than conventional nuclear reactor technology. The IMSR represents a step-change improvement in economics, versatility and functionality of nuclear power plants that is possible only through Generation IV technology. IMSR power plants will provide resilient, reliable, dispatchable, zero-carbon and cost-competitive electric power, as well as high-grade industrial heat for use in many industrial applications, such as chemical synthesis, hydrogen production and desalination, and in so doing extend the application of nuclear energy far beyond electric power markets. IMSR power plants have the potential to make important contributions to industrial competitiveness, energy security, and economic growth. Their deployment will support rapid global decarbonization of the primary energy system by displacing fossil fuel combustion across a broad spectrum and can scale to meet net-zero policy goals of major industrial economies. Using an innovative design, and proven and demonstrated molten salt reactor technology, Terrestrial Energy is engaged with regulators and industrial partners to complete IMSR engineering and to commission first IMSR power plants in the late 2020s.

About BWXT Canada Ltd.

BWXT Canada Ltd. has over 60 years of expertise and experience in the design, manufacturing, commissioning and service of nuclear power generation equipment. This includes steam generators, nuclear fuel and fuel components, critical plant components, parts and related plant services. BWXT Canadas sister company, BWXT Medical Ltd. provides its customers, who conduct life-saving medical procedures for patients around the world, the benefit of decades of experience in the development, manufacturing, packaging and delivery of medical isotopes and radiopharmaceuticals. Headquartered in Cambridge, Ontario, BWXT in Canada has approximately 1,500 employees at locations in Cambridge, Dundas, Peterborough, Toronto, Arnprior, Pickering, Port Elgin, Owen Sound, Kanata and Oakville, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia. BWXT Canada Ltd. is a subsidiary of BWX Technologies, Inc. Follow us on Twitter @BWXT and learn more at www.bwxt.com.
WASHINGTON, D.C., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) today announced $1.1 million in grants to support efforts to improve the health and resilience of coral reefs in Florida, Hawaii, the Northern Mariana Islands and Puerto Rico. The grants will generate $2.3 million in matching contributions for a total conservation impact of $3.4 million.

Across the globe, coral reef ecosystems suffer persistent damage from stressors including increased coral bleaching events, warming oceans, overfishing and pollution, said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF. NFWF is proud that over the course of over 20 years, with the support of our partners, the Coral Reef Conservation Fund has become a highly effective incubator for innovation, development and dissemination of best practices for protecting coral.

The grants were awarded through the Coral Reef Conservation Fund (CRCF), a 21-year conservation partnership between NFWF and NOAAs Coral Reef Conservation Program (CRCP). Aramco Americas also joined in support of the fund as the major corporate sponsor for a second consecutive year. Supplemental funding was also provided this year by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Now more than ever, we need to come together to make a real difference in conserving corals, said Jennifer Koss, director of the NOAA Coral Reef Conservation Program. Every year the quality of proposals increases and funding decisions are harder, which is a real testament to NOAA and NFWF building upon years of work in coral reef research and management.

The projects supported by the seven grants announced today will address NFWFs three primary focus areas to help protect functioning and resilient coral reef systems in an increasingly urbanized and changing coastal environment:

Increasing the resiliency of coral reefs by reducing human-based threats such as overfishing and land-based sources of pollution

Promoting active restoration efforts to restore degraded reefs

Investing in innovation and tools for managers to increase their capacity and decision-making power

With this second years contribution in 2021, Aramco Americas support of the Coral Reef Conservation Fund has helped make possible the award of 18 conservation grants in U.S., Caribbean, and Pacific waters related to the health of coral reefs. The companys support has catalyzed a total on-the-ground impact of $6.2 million in just two years.

Aramco is pleased to support conservation efforts around the world, and especially those related to marine environments, said Nabeel I. AlAfaleg, president and chief executive officer, Aramco Americas. This extends our work with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and our commitment to having a positive, long-term impact on marine environmental protection.

This years Coral Reef Conservation Fund grant recipients include:

Coral Restoration Foundation ($148,000) will use artificial intelligence software to create reef-scale photomosaic images for the purpose of coral restoration monitoring.

will use artificial intelligence software to create reef-scale photomosaic images for the purpose of coral restoration monitoring. Arizona State University ($196,000) will identify herbivory thresholds for reef resilience in Hawaii that relate to coral reef condition to help reef managers manage fish populations for coral restoration and health.

will identify herbivory thresholds for reef resilience in Hawaii that relate to coral reef condition to help reef managers manage fish populations for coral restoration and health. Protectores de Cuencas ($150,000) will engage the local community of Culebra, Puerto Rico in a citizen-science monitoring program to help prioritize coral reef conservation strategies for the island.

will engage the local community of Culebra, Puerto Rico in a citizen-science monitoring program to help prioritize coral reef conservation strategies for the island. State of Hawaii, Department of Land and Natural Resources ($222,000) will protect 7,000 acres of forests from non-native hooved animals to reduce sedimentation onto nearshore coral reef habitat.

will protect 7,000 acres of forests from non-native hooved animals to reduce sedimentation onto nearshore coral reef habitat. The Nature Conservancy ($110,000) will characterize the current state of the coral reefs at Kawela in southeast Molokai to help track recovery after significant land pollution reduction activities that are in progress.

will characterize the current state of the coral reefs at Kawela in southeast Molokai to help track recovery after significant land pollution reduction activities that are in progress. Mariana Islands Nature Alliance ($50,000) will test various coral out-planting strategies to inform future coral reef restoration in the territory.

will test various coral out-planting strategies to inform future coral reef restoration in the territory. Nova Southeastern University ($233,000) will provide treatments to corals to prevent loss of corals to stony coral tissue loss disease.

Since 2000, the Coral Reef Conservation Fund has made 408 awards to coral conservation projects with $22 million in federal and non-federal funds, which leveraged more than $29 million in matching funds for a total conservation impact of $51 million.

A complete list of the 2021 grants made through the Coral Reef Conservation Fund is available here.

About the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation

Chartered by Congress in 1984, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) protects and restores the nations fish, wildlife, plants and habitats. Working with federal, corporate and individual partners, NFWF has funded more than 5,000 organizations and generated a conservation impact of $6.8 billion. Learn more at www.nfwf.org.

About the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

NOAAs mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earths environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. Learn more at www.noaa.gov.

About Aramco Americas

Aramco Services Company (d/b/a Aramco Americas) is the U.S.-based subsidiary of Saudi Aramco, a world leader in integrated energy and chemicals, and has had a presence in the U.S. for more than 60 years. Aramco Americas is a contributor to the U.S. energy sector through research and development, venture fund activities, asset ownership, as well as technology and digital transformation. The company is headquartered in Houston, and maintains offices in New York, Washington D.C., Boston, and Detroit. Aramco Americas is committed to being a positive contributor in the communities where its employees live and work, and to making a difference through outreach that benefits the arts, geosciences, education and the environment. Please visit https://americas.aramco.com/ to learn more.

About the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

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New York, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Reportlinker.com announces the release of the report "Global DevSecOps Market By Component, By Deployment Type, By Enterprise Size, By End User, By Regional Outlook, Industry Analysis Report and Forecast, 2021 - 2027" - https://www.reportlinker.com/p06177764/?utm_source=GNW

The core task of DevSecOps is to bring automation in security protocols and other procedures needed in the development of applications. One of the major catalysts for the growth of the market is the growing requirement for highly safer and quicker application delivery. In addition, the higher internet penetration and surge in the number of cybercrimes would support the growth of the market. Additionally, the ongoing surge in the number of companies and applications shifting to the cloud, Internet of Things deployments, and 5G rollouts are also anticipated to open new growth prospects for the market.



Moreover, the growth of the DevSecOps market would witness bright propsects due to the growing cases of security breaches and hacks in the procedure of application developments; hence security is becoming one of the crucial factors. In addition, the growing requirement for superior and reliable security due to the increasing requirement for application development & deliveries among the companies would escalate the market growth. Factors such as the requirement to fulfill the security guidelines and regulations, increasing demand for highly safer continuous application delivery and the high focus on security & compliance, rising security breaches, higher awareness about DevSecOps platforms are responsible for the growth of the DevSecOps market. The emerging requirement for enhancing SDLC by reducing the wastage of time, and the growing investment activities are major determinants propelling the growth of the global DevSecOps market. Additionally, high adoption rate of the solution among SMEs, increasing technological developments and growing modernization in the process would further open new growth avenues for key players of the DevSecOps market during the forecast period.



COVID-19 Impact Analysis



The outbreak of the global pandemic and the subsequent imposition of various restrictions like lockdowns has impacted the DevSecOps market. With the disruptions caused by the pandemic, many companies have shifted their focus to the cloud solutions to ensure business continuity. Additionally, the rapid shift to work-from-home norms due to the pandemic to facilitate the safety of employees is further estimated to positively impact the growth of the DevSecOps market.



The increasing cases of cyberattacks in various industrial verticals like BFSI, IT and telecommunication, and retail & consumer goods are also estimated to propel the growth of the market. The rising adoption of various advanced technologies and cloud-based solutions by the companies would support the demand for security technology like DevSecOps. Thus, the pandemic has positively impacted the growth of the DevSecOps market in the forecast period.



Market Driving Factors:



High focus on data security



The number of data security breaches has increased in the last few years, which is making it more important for companies to invest in building stronger security systems to protect their data and developments. Data and security breaches can cause a severe loss to the company, due to which, companies are deploying many solutions like DevSecOps. This increasing adoption of security solutions is fueling the demand for such solutions.



Growing requirement for efficient and well-managed operational processes



Companies around the globe are increasingly focusing on boosting efficiency and decreasing the maintenance of the software development operation procedure. DevOps platform enables in enhancing the synchronization and collaboration among developers and hence, provide efficient procedures and at the same time minimize the maintenance needed for the constant development process. In addition, the DevOps platform improves security by not compromising on the stability of the product.



Market Restraining Factor:



Absence of skilled and knowledgeable professionals



One of the major challenges faced by the DevSecOps industry is the lack of skilled personnel for the implementation of DevSecOps solutions across the companies. The absence of skilled personnel is primarily because of the gap between the demand and supply for security professionals, which is developed owing to the lack of understanding of the latest technology in information security.



Component Outlook



Based on Component, the market is segmented into Software and Services. The software segment is estimated to garner the highest growth rate over the forecast period. The growth of the segment is expected to be fueled by the increasing popularity of DevSecOps among companies due to its benefits like better speed, improved communication & collaboration among departments, agility, timely identification of vulnerability, and security.



Deployment Type Outlook



Based on Deployment Type, the market is segmented into On-premise and Cloud. The cloud segment is projected to procure the highest growth rate during the forecast period. This deployment type supports various devices and channels like tablets, smartphones, and social media. In addition, there are numerous advantages offered by cloud deployment to the companies like higher speed, 24/7 services, better scalability, and improved IT security.



Enterprise Size Outlook



Based on Enterprise Size, the market is segmented into Large Enterprises and Small & Medium Enterprises. The large enterprise segment acquired the largest revenue share of the market in 2020. There are various leading companies across different industry verticals like BFSI, government & public sector, retail & consumer goods, IT & telecommunications, and manufacturing, which are witnessing high demand for DevSecOps solutions, thereby boosting its adoption rate in the global market.



End User Outlook



Based on End User, the market is segmented into Telecom & IT, Retail & Consumer Goods, BFSI, Government, Manufacturing, and Others. The BFSI segment is estimated to exhibit the highest growth rate over the forecast period. The BFSI industry has experienced a substantial rise in cyber threats & attacks in the last couple of years. The increasing preference for internet banking and mobile banking has augmented the cases of threats and data breaches, and thus fueling the adoption of DevSecOps solutions.



Regional Outlook



Based on Regions, the market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America, Middle East & Africa. North America emerged as the leading region with the largest revenue share in 2020. The presence of various developed nations like Canada and the US in this region is supporting the growth of the regional market. The early and rapid adoption of technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and cloud computing would accelerate the growth of the regional market.



The major strategies followed by the market participants are Product Launches. Based on the Analysis presented in the Cardinal matrix; Google, LLC and Microsoft Corporation are the forerunners in the DevSecOps Market. Companies such as CA Technologies (Broadcom Inc.), IBM, Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., are some of the key innovators in the market.



The market research report covers the analysis of key stake holders of the market. Key companies profiled in the report include CA Technologies (Broadcom Inc), IBM Corporation, Micro Focus International plc, Synopsys, Inc., Microsoft Corporation, Google, LLC., Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., PaloAltoNetworks, Inc., Qualys, Inc. and Splunk, Inc.



Recent Strategies deployed in DevSecOps Market



Partnerships, Collaborations and Agreement:



2021-Sep: IBM joined hands with Sumo Logic, a cloud-based machine data analytics company. Under this collaboration, the companies aimed to introduce Sumo Logics Continuous Intelligence Platform on Red Hat Marketplace. In addition, Sumo Logic would provide its cloud-native security and observability solutions for organizations operating on the Red Hat OpenShift platform, assisting them to implement quickly and gain more insights into their cloud and applications, hybrid infrastructures, and services.



2021-Jul: Google formed a partnership with Hunter Strategy, Boutique cloud engineering, and agile DevOps firm. This partnership aimed to certify Hunters technical expertise in agile cloud development. Hunter would join a premier alliance of Cloud engineers to broaden services portfolio across migration, cloud advisory, software security, orchestration, automation, and robust managed services capabilities.



2021-May: Micro Focus extended its collaboration with Microsoft, an American multinational technology corporation. This expansion aimed to assist decrease government customers infrastructure costs by bridging prevailing and emerging technologies to transform and modernize.



2021-Apr: Micro Focus came into a partnership with Citadel, an American multinational hedge fund, and financial services company. This partnership aimed to expand the Micro Focus Content Management product line to offer Content Manager Select Software as a Service, an advanced managed service solution.



2021-Mar: Check Point Software Technologies partnered with SimilarWeb, a leading digital intelligence company. Together, the companies aimed to integrate statistical domain trends and security web threats produced by Check Points ThreatCloud with SimilarWeb digital intelligence solutions.



2021-Mar: Qualys extended its partnership with HCL Technologies, a leading global technology company. This expansion aimed to incorporate Qualys VMDR (Vulnerability Management, Detection, and Response) into the HCL Technologies CyberSecurity Fusion Center.



2021-Feb: Micro Focus entered into a distribution agreement with Nextgen in Singapore, which would expand their channel partnership beyond Australia and New Zealand markets. Together, the companies would drive partner enablement and programmatic support, with an aim at improving technical capabilities and operational efficiency.



2021-Jan: CA Technologies entered into a partnership with Inspire for Solutions Development. This partnership aimed to bring CA Technologies extensive line of solutions for digital transformation with Inspire for Solutions Developments expertise and its delivery portfolio in Jordan.



2020-Sep: Google Cloud extended its partnership with HCL Technologies (HCL), a leading global technology company. This partnership aimed to bring HCLs Actian product line, beginning with Actian Avalanche, to Google Cloud. Actian Avalanche is a high-performance hybrid cloud data warehouse developed to power a companys most demanding operational analytics workloads.



2020-Jun: Check Point Software Technologies came into a partnership with Coursera, an online learning platform. This partnership aimed to provide expanding series of Check Point cyber-security courses and content to security & network professionals.



Acquisitions and Mergers:



2021-Aug: Check Point Software Technologies took over Avanan, the fastest-growing cloud email security company. Through this acquisition, Avanan would be combined into the Check Point Infinity consolidated architecture to provide the most secure email security portfolio.



2021-Aug: Qualys signed an agreement to acquire TotalCloud, a cloud workflow management, and no-code automation platform. This acquisition aimed to strengthen Qualys Cloud Security solution enables the users to create user-defined workflows for custom policies and execute them on-demand for streamlined security and compliance.



2021-Jul: IBM acquired BoxBoat Technologies, a services company specializing in Containers, DevOps, Continuous Delivery, and Cloud Migration engagements. This acquisition aimed to expand IBMs container strategy and deployment services portfolio to improve IBMs hybrid cloud strategy and boost Red Hat OpenShift adoption internationally.



2021-Jul: Microsoft tookover CloudKnox Security for providing cloud entitlement management and unified privileged access.



2021-Jun: Synopsys took over Code Dx, a provider of an award-winning application security risk management solution. This acquisition aimed to add Code Dx that would enable Synopsys to provide users with combined risk reporting and prioritization across correlated software vulnerability data generated by Synopsys solutions and more than 75 third-party and open-source application security & development products.



2021-Feb: Palo Alto Networks completed the acquisition of Bridgecrew, a DevOps security startup. This acquisition aimed to assist companies to tackle the challenges created by the pandemic, by providing security tools developed for those working in DevOps to manage a huge amount of security data more efficiently.



2020-Jan: Synopsys acquired Tinfoil Security, a provider of software for scanning websites to detect vulnerabilities, and delivers solutions to address them. This acquisition aimed to expand the portfolio of Synopsys in the market and would further strengthen the Polaris Software Integrity Platform.



Product Launches and Product Expansions:



2021-Sep: Synopsys introduced new features of its Rapid Scan tool that offers vulnerability detection for proprietary and open-source code. For companies that are embracing DevSecOps, application security testing requires to follow suit. By Rapid Scan, Coverity, and Black Duck, clients can operate fast preventative scans to identify and remove surface-level vulnerabilities since their developers write and commit code, and they could utilize the same solutions to carry out deep scans later in the SDLC before implementing their applications.



2021-Aug: Google unveiled a GitHub app that offers automated constant enforcement of security best practices for GitHub projects. This app would offer the open-source community a tool, which makes it possible for companies to gain more confidence in the open-source software that would be employed within a software supply chain.



2021-Jun: Check Point Software Technologies expanded the capabilities of its unified Cloud-Native Security Platform. This expansion aimed to provide application-first workload protection with Check Point CloudGuard Workload Protection. This comprehensive automated cloud workload security solution provides the security teams with tools to automate security over Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), applications, and microservices from development to runtime through one interface.



2020-Apr: Palo Alto Networks introduced the new updated Prisma Cloud. This update makes it easier for the companies to embrace the DevSecOps procedures along with implementing workloads in the cloud.



Scope of the Study



Market Segments covered in the Report:



By Component



 Software



 Services



By Deployment Type



 On-premise



 Cloud



By Enterprise Size



 Large Enterprises



 Small & Medium Enterprises



By End User



 Telecom & IT



 Retail & Consumer Goods



 BFSI



 Government



 Manufacturing



 Others



By Geography



 North America



o US



o Canada



o Mexico



o Rest of North America



 Europe



o Germany



o UK



o France



o Russia



o Spain



o Italy



o Rest of Europe



 Asia Pacific



o China



o Japan



o India



o South Korea



o Singapore



o Malaysia



o Rest of Asia Pacific



 LAMEA



o Brazil



o Argentina



o UAE



o Saudi Arabia



o South Africa



o Nigeria



o Rest of LAMEA



Companies Profiled



 CA Technologies (Broadcom Inc)



 IBM Corporation



 Micro Focus International plc



 Synopsys, Inc.



 Microsoft Corporation



 Google, LLC.



 Check Point Software Technologies Ltd.



 PaloAltoNetworks, Inc.



 Qualys, Inc.



 Splunk, Inc.



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SAN DIEGO, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the nation's Child Care crisis escalates, TOOTRiS is garnering national attention for an innovative, real-time platform that is pioneering a new way to connect parents, providers, employers, and service organizations.

TOOTRiS, the first on-demand Child Care platform, was recently recognized by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce with the Dream Big Minority-Owned Business Achievement Award. The annual Dream Big Awards, held virtually Oct. 21, 2021, celebrates the achievements of small businesses and highlights their contributions to America's economic growth. TOOTRiS was chosen from a record 1,000+ applications submitted from U.S. businesses.

"I'm very excited and humbled by this amazing recognition because we dream big every day," said TOOTRiS CEO Alessandra Lezama. "Our dedicated team at TOOTRiS shares this recognition with and pays tribute to all the amazing Child Care providers - especially women of color - who hold our communities together and are an integral part of moving our economy forward by helping parents get back to work."

Lezama - a seasoned technology executive and single mom of color - founded TOOTRiS in 2019 with a mission to create a platform that enables more parents - especially women - to participate and thrive in the workforce, while empowering a new crop of women entrepreneurs to launch their own Child Care business. Now, the startup has more than 150,000 Child Care providers on its platform across the U.S.

TOOTRiS is also being recognized for helping to create a more equitable workforce by partnering with companies and organizations to make it easier for employees to find quality Child Care by seamlessly integrating its platform with existing benefits programs.

"Through the Dream Big Awards, the U.S. Chamber is proud to honor the very best in American small business - the innovators, dreamers, and doers who despite this year's obstacles, continue to be a beacon of hope through their actions, contributions, and leadership. Congratulations to TOOTRiS and all of this year's award winners and finalists," said Tom Sullivan, U.S. Chamber of Commerce vice president of small business policy.

About TOOTRiS

TOOTRiS is reinventing Child Care, making it convenient, affordable and on-demand. As the world shifts to digitalized services, TOOTRiS helps parents and providers connect and transact in real-time, empowering working parents - especially women - to secure quality Child Care, while allowing providers to unlock their potential and fully monetize their program. TOOTRiS is creating a new digital economy that promotes entrepreneurial opportunities for individuals with passion and talent to become Child Care providers, improving their quality of life while increasing the much-needed supply of Child Care across the state. TOOTRiS' unique technology enables employers to provide fully managed Child Care Benefits, giving their workforce the flexibility and family support paramount to regaining employee productivity and increasing their ROI. Visit tootris.com for more information.

About the U.S. Chamber of Commerce

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business organization representing companies of all sizes across every sector of the economy. Our members range from the small businesses and local chambers of commerce that line the Main Streets of America to leading industry associations and large corporations. They all share one thing: They count on the U.S. Chamber to be their voice in Washington, across the country, and around the world. For more than 100 years, we have advocated for pro-business policies that help businesses create jobs and grow our economy.

Media Contact:

press@tootris.com

(858) 263-0725







Related Images











Image 1: TOOTRiS Child Care On-Demand









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ATLANTA, GA, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI), an accredited online child care training provider dedicated exclusively to the early care and education workforce, has partnered with the University of Phoenix for more than a decade and recently renewed their articulation agreement partnership.

CCEI students who complete CDA, CDA Renewal, Directors Certificate or FCCPC Certificate programs may articulate up to four (4) semester hours of Interdisciplinary/Elective Credit to University of Phoenix through the Prior Learning Assessment process. Additionally, students completing CCEI professional development may articulate their training as elective credit. Thirty (30) hours of training is equivalent to one (1) hour of elective credit. Students must submit an official CCEI transcript when applying to University of Phoenix.

Additional Opportunities exist for CCEI students and alumni. These opportunities include the articulation of credit into a University of Phoenix degree program, waiver of all pre-evaluation fees, and a 10% tuition reduction. CCEI graduates should contact the Prior Learning Assessment department at 844.937.8679 or visit the University of Phoenix PLA website.

Students interested in CCEI certificate programs or professional development courses should contact CCEIs Admissions Department at 1.800.499.9907. As requirements for childcare staff increase, educational partnerships open up opportunities for early childhood teachers to meet their goals, which increasingly include a college degree, said Maria C. Taylor, President and CEO of CCEI.

About University of Phoenix: John Sperling, PhD, a Cambridge-educated economist, professor and entrepreneur, founded University of Phoenix in 1976 in response to the changing needs of the workplace. It was part of his commitment to provide adults with the higher education they would need to fill those needs and for forty years, thats exactly what weve done.

The times have changed, but our objective has remained the same  to help people enhance their lives through education. Together we will keep working to fulfill Dr. Sperlings vision, improve the lives of our students and strengthen our communities. We are proud to provide students access to quality education, ongoing support and a range of resources to help them succeed. Through innovation and dedication, we can continue to work toward a better tomorrow.

We invite you to learn about our University and see how we can help you pursue your education and follow your dreams. To activate your tuition reduction, learn more about the available programs, or have general questions, call, text or email the University of Phoenixs Education Development Specialist, Paul Mulcahy at 757.945.1001 or paul.mulcahy@phoenix.edu.

ChildCare Education Institute, LLC

ChildCare Education Institute, a division of Excelligence Learning Corporation, provides high-quality, distance education certificates and child care training programs in an array of child care settings, including preschool centers, family child care, prekindergarten classrooms, nanny care, online daycare training and more. Over 150 English and Spanish child care training courses are available online to meet licensing, recognition program, and Head Start Requirements. CCEI also has online certification programs that provide the coursework requirement for national credentials including the CDA, Director and Early Childhood Credentials. CCEI, a Council for Professional Recognition CDA Gold Standard training provider, is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and is accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Accreditors for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

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ANDREWS, S.C., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SixAxis LLC (the "Company") announced today that Rob Honeycutt, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer, plans to step down from his current role as CEO at the end of 2021. The Board of Directors has appointed Jeff Reichert to succeed Honeycutt as Chief Executive Officer on Jan. 1, 2022. Honeycutt will remain a key member of the Board of Directors, providing unparalleled insight and guidance to the company

"On behalf of the Board of Directors, the Executive Management Team, and the SixAxis ~500 employees, we want to thank Rob for his leadership, vision and impact on the organization in creating a world-class operation, from inception to what it is today," said Ken Walker, Chairperson. "The Board is sincerely grateful to Rob for his dedication to SixAxis as CEO and are looking forward to his continuing input and oversight at Board level."

Jeff's selection is the culmination of a robust, multi-year leadership development and succession planning process that has helped create a great management team with depth in all functions that will ensure a seamless transition.

"The combination of the talented SixAxis leadership team, the customer-driven durable end-market commercial portfolio that has been created, as well as a strong balance sheet, has positioned SixAxis for continued success through this transition and beyond," added Walker.

"It has been an honor to be the Co-Founder & CEO of SixAxis LLC since its inception. I want to offer my sincere thanks to Fred Harmon, my partner and friend - and to our employees whose hard work and dedication have allowed us to achieve so much over the last 20 years. I also want to thank our customers, shareholders, and the Board of Directors for their ongoing support. I have worked with Jeff for many years and know first-hand that he will be an excellent leader for SixAxis. I look forward to working closely with Jeff and the Board to execute the exciting plans that we have in place."

SafeRack President Jeff Reichert will take over the reins as SixAxis CEO. "I want to thank Rob for his visionary leadership and guidance at SixAxis, as well as the Board for its confidence in me, as I step into this role," said Reichert. "I am honored and excited to have the opportunity to work with our talented leadership team and employees around the world to advance the SixAxis growth strategy."

Honeycutt's humble beginnings began with a childhood filled with adversity and relocating dozens of times around the southeast. He did not complete college, and instead became a door-to-door vacuum cleaner salesman in rural South Carolina, before finally finding his spiritual home in industrial sales with an equipment company located in Florence, SC. He quickly rose to become one of the company's top salesmen while still in his early 20s.

It was during this time that Honeycutt met his future business partner, Fred Harmon. Between them, they founded SafeRack LLC, launched their first brand of products in 2002/2003, and started growing a company while facing almost impossible odds. The passionate vision involved investing nearly everything they had into a catalog of products, all the while embracing customers with unparalleled care, and solving complicated safety and productivity problems.

Rob and Fred assembled a small group of believers, and they overcame startup and unpredictable growing pains. SafeRack opened its dedicated manufacturing facility in Andrews, South Carolina, in 2005. With limited cash flow, they began operations on mostly dirt floors and began to carve out a reputation for providing innovative safety solutions for the truck and railcar loading industry - with unmatched customer service.

Their customer-centric philosophy and persistence prevailed. They began to dominate the marketplace and build the SafeRack brand into the world's premier provider for loading terminal safety equipment. During this time, Honeycutt succeeded at bringing to life a world-class manufacturing facility to support the continued growth of the company. As an out-of-the-box thinker with no preconceptions, he was able to secure dozens of patents that would enjoy double-digit annual growth still to this day.

Over the past two decades, Honeycutt and Harmon oversaw the development of many successful additional brands and products within the industrial safety space. Many are used in facilities around the world today, such as ErectaStep (the patented modular access platform and stairs system) and YellowGate (the patented industrial safety gate line of products).

During this journey, Rob and Fred also founded a unique software company, creating sales and CRM tools to enable customers to visualize their proposed solution ahead of receiving the quote for the product. This dramatically helped improve the collaborative and consultative sales process, about which Harmon and Honeycutt are both so passionate. While neither are involved in the software business today, the company still operates in Charleston, South Carolina, and the solutions developed for (and with) SixAxis are still being used to support continued growth in many industries.

The company's main offices remain in their Andrews (SC) manufacturing plant. Other teams such as Engineering and Customer Service work out of a Sumter office, while an office in England supports international sales. More than 60 Sales professionals are located across the U.S. for North American customers.

In June of 2021, SixAxis acquired Upside Innovations (located in West Chester, Ohio), and further expanded the SixAxis product family to include ADA compliant ramps and stairs. While the markets served marginally overlap those already enjoyed by SixAxis, the complementary products present further growth opportunities and strong penetration points into the modular building industry.

The dirt floor days are gone, and SixAxis employs nearly 500 employees. The company has expanded to over 300,000 square feet of high-tech manufacturing space and enjoys a multi-national sales footprint in over 50 countries. Over 11,000 customers have worked with SixAxis, and over the last 20 years. More than $1 billion (dollars) worth of equipment has been supplied around the world, improving safety and productivity for our workforce. And the company is less than 20 years old...

Rob Honeycutt resides in Pawleys Island, SC, along with his wife Julie, and their daughters Elizabeth and Mary.

About Reichert:

Jeff Reichert is a member of the SixAxis executive leadership team and currently serves as the president of SafeRack and SixAxis. He manages the day-to-day operations of the company, in addition to overseeing business strategy for the company.

Prior to SafeRack, Reichert served as the vice president of a chemical and industrial business unit of a large loading arm manufacturing company and spent the previous 15 years at a major aircraft engine manufacturer and a Japanese machine tool company.

Reichert attended Bowling Green State University and earned a Bachelor of Science in Operations and Materials Management and a Masters of Business Administration in Operations Management.

Pawleys, SC, is home for Reichert and his wife Cindy. They have four children: Aaron, Andrew, Adam and Annie.

About FCP:

Falfurrias Capital Partners is a private equity investment firm focused on acquiring or investing in a diverse portfolio of growth-oriented middle-market companies.

As a team of operators, we leverage our significant, real-world experience to bring measurable contributions and create lasting value for both our portfolio companies and limited partners.

By partnering with the most respected experts in their fields, we immerse ourselves in the industries which we invest in, identify the strongest growth opportunities, and rigorously test and learn using our expertise, data and tireless investigation.

For more information, visit www.falfurriascapital.com

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Image 1: Rob Honeycutt





Rob Honeycutt, Co-founder & CEO of SixAxis Manufacturing

















Image 2: Jeff Reichert





Jeff Reichert, CEO of SixAxis Manufacturing

















Image 3: SixAxis Manufacturing





SixAxis Manufacturing Facility in Andrews, South Carolina









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New York, US, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Market Overview:

According to a comprehensive research report by Market Research Future (MRFR), Oil and Gas Cloud Application Market information by deployment type, by components, by operation and region  forecast to 2027 was Valued at USD 4.84 Billion in 2019 and is Expected to Register 14.6% CAGR During Forecast Period.

Market Scope:

Market Research Futures (MRFR) report on the oil and gas cloud application market comes on the heels of increasing exploratory and production activities of the oil & gas sector. The transformation of processes as well as focus on remote work to curb on labor expenses are explored in high detail in the report. It contains prospects and hurdles to be faced by players over the forecast period (2020-2027). The COVID-19 pandemic and its effects are also included in the report.

Dominant Key Players on Oil and Gas Cloud Application Market Covered are:

Aspentech

HPE

Oracle Corporation

Dassault Systemes

ABB

Sage Software Solutions

Infor

IBM Corporation

Workday

Salesforce

SAP SE

Microsoft Corporation

Quorum Software

Bentley Systems

Risk Edge Solutions

Get Free Sample PDF Brochure:

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/sample_request/8690

Market USP Exclusively Encompassed:

Market Drivers

Goals of developed and developing nations to increase food production by 70% by 2050 can drive the market demand significantly. Introduction of subsidies to farmers and loan schemes for adapting modern methods can bode well for the market. Farm mechanization that refers to use of modern vehicles for irrigation of and harvesting of crops can favor the market. This can increase the output while keeping labor costs low. Government efforts to bring in farmers to the industrial fold by assuring timely assistance with fertilizers, crop seeds, and right prices for their crops can influence farmers greatly. This is exemplified by release of funds to states by the central government of India through its Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanisation scheme for establishment of farm machinery banks, distribution centers for machines, and custom hiring centers.

Lack of arable land, need of fresh water, and climate change are challenges posed to the market.

Browse In-depth Market Research Report (111 Pages) on Oil and Gas Cloud Application Market:

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/reports/oil-gas-cloud-applications-market-8690

Segmentation of Market Covered in the Research:

By component, the global oil and gas cloud applications market have been divided into solution and service. The solution segment has been further broken down into enterprise asset management, enterprise resource planning, customer relationship management, security, others. The services segment has been further broken down into three sub-segments consulting, implementation and training, support, and maintenance.

Based on deployment type, the global oil and gas cloud applications market has been divided into a private cloud and public cloud.

Based on organization size, the global oil and gas cloud applications market have been divided into small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large enterprise segments.

On the basis of operation, the global oil and gas cloud applications market has been divided into upstream, midstream, and downstream.

Share your Queries:

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/enquiry/8690

Regional Analysis

APAC is touted to lead the global market owing to increased demand for food by the large population residing in China and India coupled with need for sustainable practices. Government support for enabling modern equipment for resident farmers and rising export of cereals from the region can bolster market demand. Indonesia has also vouched for local production of farm equipment with the government setting aside a fund for increasing yields and investing in rice science. Huge demand for tractors and investments to reduce harvest losses can drive the market.

North America has assumed the second position in the oil and gas cloud application market owing to huge demand for tractors. Used farm equipment is another niche segment sprouting in the region owing to assurance on these products given by certified preowned programs. In addition, leasing of equipment to farmers in Canada and the U.S. may also bolster market revenues.

To Buy:

https://www.marketresearchfuture.com/checkout?currency=one_user-USD&report_id=8690

COVID-19 Impact on the Global Oil and Gas Cloud Application Market

The COVID-19 outbreak has affected the supply chain of agriculture equipment which has in extent foiled the plans of procurement of additional arable land for cultivation. Focus of companies for producing crops locally and sell to farm outlets is expected to drive the market demand significantly. New farm laws enabling companies to tie-up with large farmers to gain stocks of viable crops in respect to customer demand may be suitable to the market. This is evident by establishment of centers housing fresh farm produce.

Industry Update

LYTT has entered into a collaboration with Baker Hughes to cater to digitization efforts of the oil & gas sector to tackle challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Industry Trends

Introduction of smart equipment capable of providing accurate metrics on soil quality and other parameters vital for a good harvest can disrupt the oil and gas cloud application market. This is exemplified by Caterpillar launching skid-steer loaders with room for attachment for other equipment for multi-tasking purposes. The tools in the machine can recognize new equipment and assign controls accordingly.

Farm monitoring platforms have gained prominence with the evolution of internet of things and use of data for improving farming practices. Recently, FarmMicro has launched a farm control monitoring system, SmartFarm, for allowing farmers overall control of their equipment. Examples of applications are livestock monitoring and control of irrigation gates, rain gauges, and farm gates. The company has even partnered with John Deere to provide real-time data for proving insights into operations.

About Market Research Future:

Market Research Future (MRFR) is a global market research company that takes pride in its services, offering a complete and accurate analysis regarding diverse markets and consumers worldwide. Market Research Future has the distinguished objective of providing the optimal quality research and granular research to clients. Our market research studies by products, services, technologies, applications, end users, and market players for global, regional, and country level market segments, enable our clients to see more, know more, and do more, which help answer your most important questions.

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LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kay Properties & Investments successfully helped a high-net-worth client complete 15 Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) investments following the sale of five multifamily properties within a short period of time.



This particular client leveraged the full potential of Kay Properties unique real estate platform that combines extensive client education, a robust menu of diversified DST investment options from multiple Delaware Statutory Trust sponsor companies, and deep market contacts across the country. After conducting literally years of research on the subject, he decided that DST investments provide an investment strategy that fit his own goals and objectives better than active ownership/management of rental properties, as well as that Kay Properties was the right team and platform to help him invest in DST 1031 properties, said Dwight Kay, Founder and CEO of Kay Properties.

Kay also explained that this type of transaction illustrates the growing popularity of DST 1031 exchanges among real estate investors.

As DST 1031 exchange experts, Kay Properties & Investments representatives speak with hundreds of accredited investors each week who want to know more about DST investment opportunities, said Kay.

After completing his first DST 1031 exchange several years ago, the client recognized the level of expertise Kay Properties provided throughout the entire exchange process, and how readily available the entire Kay Properties team was to answer questions or provide advice.

He first started to learn about DST investments through extensive conversations with the Kay Properties team and with the resources available on the www.kpi1031.com platform. Then, he started to conduct his own research and really got comfortable with how DST 1031 exchanges work. Over the months he asked many questions, and we were always there for him with answers and guidance. Plus, he really got to the point several years ago where he didnt want to be a landlord anymore. He was proud of himself for having built such a portfolio during his younger years, but he just reached a point in his life where he wanted to start selling some of his investment properties, said Jason Salmon, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Real Estate Analytics with Kay Properties & Investments.

Because the investor had already completed at least one DST 1031 exchange and was comfortable with the investment vehicle, Salmon explained he now wanted to slowly liquidate his real estate portfolio. The investor, along with his CPA and attorneys, worked closely with Salmon and the Kay Properties team of DST experts to create a very detailed plan that included anticipated closing times on the relinquished properties, timelines for finding and vetting replacement properties that fit within the investor's very specific parameters, and creating a workflow that coordinated all the necessary paperwork and signatures so that everything was organized and every closing went smoothly.

Some sales overlapped with each other, and so it became a cadence -- one after the other, after the other, after the other, after the other. We are in constant contact and we really immerse ourselves into finding just the right DST property or properties that fit perfectly into his 1031 investment model, said Salmon.

The investor, Salmon explained, invested in industrial distribution, net lease, self-storage, medical, and multifamily DST investments that were for sale across multiple geographic regions.

The gentleman is very, very comfortable with DSTs at this point, and is very pleased with the diversification, passive ownership, and potential monthly income stream that he has been able to accomplish. I believe his intention is to not buy any more rental real estate, and continue to move into DST investments on a systematic basis, said Salmon.

About Kay Properties and www.kpi1031.com

Kay Properties & Investments is a national Delaware Statutory Trust (DST) investment firm. The www.kpi1031.com platform provides access to the marketplace of DSTs from over 25 different sponsor companies, custom DSTs only available to Kay clients, independent advice on DST sponsor companies, full due diligence and vetting on each DST (typically 20-40 DSTs) and a DST secondary market. Kay Properties team members collectively have over 115 years of real estate experience, are licensed in all 50 states, and have participated in over $21 billion of DST 1031 investments.

Diversification does not guarantee profits or protect against losses. All real estate investments provide no guarantees for cash flow, distributions or appreciation as well as could result in a full loss of invested principal. Please read the entire Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) prior to making an investment. This case study may not be representative of the outcome of past or future offerings. Please speak with your attorney and CPA before considering an investment.



All offerings discussed are Regulation D, Rule 506c offerings. There is a risk of loss of the entire investment principal. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Potential distributions, potential returns and potential appreciation are not guaranteed. For an investor to qualify for any type of investment, there are both financial requirements and suitability requirements that must match specific objectives, goals and risk tolerances. Securities offered through Growth Capital Services, member FINRA, SIPC Office of Supervisory Jurisdiction located at 2093 Philadelphia Pike, Suite 4196, Claymont, DE 19703.

Media contacts for more info:

Cary Brazeman, 310-205-3590, cary@crelix.com

Victoria Ozols, 310-205-3590, victoria@crelix.com
Company announcement 18/2021 (26.10.2021)

Today, EE Lithuania Emerald ApS, a subsidiary to European Energy A/S, signed an agreement for the sale of three wind farms in Lithuania with a total capacity of 185.5 MW to a Lithuanian buyer. The wind farms are located in the municipalities of Anyksciai, Jonava and Rokiskis, Lithuania.

The wind farms are under construction and consist of a total of 34 units GE 158-5.5 MW HH 151m turbines. Closing is expected to take place November 2021.

The sale will (subject to closing of the transaction) contribute positively to European Energy A/S' financial position.

Contact information: European Energy A/S investor.relations@europeanenergy.com

This announcement has been made in accordance with the market abuse regulation (regulation (EU) no. 596/2014 on market abuse).
Newark, Delaware, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- e-Delaware is pleased to announce the debut of their 100 percent online services, which allow clients to start a business in the United States from anywhere in just days. In only a few clicks, the exclusive Company Management Platform assists startups in forming an LLC company.

Because of the multiple benefits that an LLC provides, more than 500,000 businesses, over two-thirds of Fortune 500 organizations, and the great majority of technology startups have incorporated in Delaware. e-Delaware streamlines the process, allowing founders from anywhere in the world to incorporate in the US and receive access to start-up infrastructure, venture capital, efficient payment processing, and other benefits.

The innovative web platform assists entrepreneurs in a variety of ways, including obtaining tax ID numbers, EINs, and ITINs. e-Delaware can also assist users in obtaining a US SIM card and a US address for commercial purposes, as well as having the papers certified by the State of Delaware.

Furthermore, e-Delaware recognizes that establishing a presence in the United States is merely the first step toward establishing a global firm. The primary objective should be to manage the business as efficiently as possible. Clients can quickly deal with all the processes and procedures involved in starting a company and getting tax IDs thanks to the e-Delaware management platform.

The user-friendly web platform provides a variety of services that assist clients in easily navigating the stages of launching a business in the United States. Among the services offered are US Company Formation, US EIN (Tax ID), ITIN, US Sim Card, Apostille, Registered Agent, DUNS, Post Formation Documentation, and US Address Setup.

On the e-Delaware secure platform, services are delivered for a single affordable charge. e-Delaware provides three packages with variable rates based on the client's needs and desires for the convenience of its consumers. Because of the graduated packaged pricing, startups can select the most beneficial and effective services for their business needs.

Likewise, e-Delaware stresses customization. Above and beyond the mechanics of business, e-Delaware is fully aware that there are hopes, desires, and aspirations to be met. As a result, e-Delaware addresses each customer's unique questions and concerns. The mission of e-Delaware is to provide a business platform that enables entrepreneurs to achieve their objectives.

e-Delaware is a one-stop shop for starting a business in the United States and forming an LLC fast and easily. The online platform, which is designed to assist a wide range of companies, is a Delaware Limited Liability Company (LLC) with the filing number 5739252. The convenient e-Delaware website makes it simple for organizations to start a business in the United States in just a few simple steps.

About e-Delaware: e-Delaware, based and licensed in Newark, Delaware, is a ground-breaking online platform that allows firms to incorporate in the United States and gain access to the world's best startup ecosystem. With their exclusive Company Management Platform, e-Delaware provides an all-in-one, 100 percent online solution at e-Delaware.com. The firm has been recognized and featured in the media for its innovative approach to starting a business in the United States. Yahoo!, Forbes, MarketWatch, and Inc. are just a handful of the media sources that have covered e-Delaware.

The online service takes pride in making the process as simple as possible, boasting that all company transactions in the United States are completed online. According to the e-Delaware website, users can, Launch your US business. From anywhere. In a few days.

CONTACT: If you'd like to learn more about e-Delaware or set up an interview for a story, please contact us.

Website: https://e-delaware.com/

Email: info@e-delaware.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/edelawarellc/

Address and Phone:

e-Delaware LLC

+1 800 418 07 18

112 Capitol Trail Newark DE 19711

There is no offer to sell, no solicitation of an offer to buy, and no recommendation of any security or any other product or service in this article. Moreover, nothing contained in this PR should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security, or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. It is your responsibility to determine whether any investment, investment strategy, security, or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance. Consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax advisor regarding your specific business, legal, or tax situation.
VANCOUVER, British Columbia, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ValOre Metals Corp. (ValOre, or the Company) (TSX-V:VO, OTC:KVLQF, Frankfurt: KEQ) today announced that based on significant investor demand, the Company has increased the size of the previously announced best efforts private placement (the Offering) from C$7,000,000 to up to C$9,000,000 from the sale of up to 15,000,000 flow-through units of the Company to be sold to charitable purchasers (the Charity FT Units) at a price of C$0.60 per Charity FT Unit (the Offering Price).



Each Charity FT Unit will consist of one common share of the Company to be issued as a flow-through share within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a FT Share) and one half of one common share purchase warrant (each whole warrant, a Warrant). Each whole Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company (each, a Warrant Share) at a price of C$0.65 at any time on or before that date which is 24 months after the closing date of the Offering.

Red Cloud Securities Inc. (the Agent) is acting as sole agent and bookrunner under the Offering. The Agent will have an option, exercisable up to 48 hours prior to the closing date of the Offering, to sell up to 3,333,333 additional Charity FT Units at the Offering Price for additional gross proceeds of up to C$2,000,000. The Company shall pay to the Agents a cash commission equal to 6.0% of the gross proceeds of the Offering. In addition, the Company shall issue to the Agents warrants of the Company exercisable for a period of 24 months, to acquire in aggregate that number of common shares of the Company which is equal to 6.0% of the number of Charity FT Units sold under the Offering at an exercise price equal to the Offering Price.

ValOre intends to use the proceeds raised from the Offering for exploration work on ValOres Angilak Property Uranium Project in Nunavut Territory, which hosts the Lac 50 Trend (Lac 50) Inferred Resource of 2,831,000 tonnes grading 0.69% U 3 O 8 , totaling 43.3 million pounds U 3 O 8 .* Comprehensive exploration programs have demonstrated Angilaks "District Scale" potential, with drill-confirmed uranium mineralization established along 40 kilometres of prospective geological trend, and multiple un-drilled targets property-wide.

The gross proceeds from the issuance of the FT Shares will be used for Canadian Exploration Expenses within the meaning of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the Qualifying Expenditures), which will be renounced with an effective date no later than December 31, 2021, to the purchasers of the Charity FT Units in an aggregate amount not less than the gross proceeds raised from the issue of the FT Shares. If the Qualifying Expenditures are reduced by the Canada Revenue Agency, the Company will indemnify each subscriber of Charity FT Units for any additional taxes payable by such subscriber as a result of the Companys failure to renounce the Qualifying Expenditures.

The Offering is scheduled to close on or about November 16, 2021, and is subject to the receipt of all necessary regulatory and other approvals, including, but not limited to, the listing of the FT Shares and Warrant Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange. The FT Shares and Warrant Shares will be subject to a hold period of four months and one day from the closing date in accordance with applicable securities laws.

About ValOre Metals Corp.

ValOre Metals Corp. (TSXV: VO) is a Canadian company with a portfolio of highquality exploration projects. ValOres team aims to deploy capital and knowledge on projects which benefit from substantial prior investment by previous owners, existence of high-value mineralization on a large scale, and the possibility of adding tangible value through exploration, process improvement, and innovation.

In May 2019, ValOre announced the acquisition of the Pedra Branca Platinum Group Elements (PGE) property, in Brazil, to bolster its existing Angilak uranium, Genesis/Hatchet uranium and Baffin gold projects in Canada.

The Pedra Branca PGE Project comprises 51 exploration licenses covering a total area of 55,984 hectares (138,339 acres) in northeastern Brazil. At Pedra Branca, 5 distinct PGE+Au deposit areas host, in aggregate, a current Inferred Resource of 1,067,000 ounces 2PGE+Au contained in 27.2 million tonnes grading 1.22 g/t 2PGE+Au (CLICK HERE for ValOres July 23, 2019 news release). All the currently known Pedra Branca inferred PGE resources are potentially open pittable.

Comprehensive exploration programs have demonstrated the "District Scale" potential of ValOres Angilak Property in Nunavut Territory, Canada that hosts the Lac 50 Trend having a current Inferred Resource of 2,831,000 tonnes grading 0.69% U 3 O 8 , totaling 43.3 million pounds U 3 O 8 . *For disclosure related to the inferred resource for the Lac 50 Trend uranium deposits, please CLICK HERE for ValOre's news release dated March 1, 2013.

ValOres team has forged strong relationships with sophisticated resource sector investors and partner Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. (NTI) on both the Angilak and Baffin Gold Properties. ValOre was the first company to sign a comprehensive agreement to explore for uranium on Inuit Owned Lands in Nunavut Territory and is committed to building shareholder value while adhering to high levels of environmental and safety standards and proactive local community engagement.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Jim Paterson

James R. Paterson, Chairman and CEO

ValOre Metals Corp.

For further information about ValOre Metals Corp., or this news release, please visit our website at www.valoremetals.com or contact Investor Relations at 604.653.9464, or by email at contact@valoremetals.com.

ValOre Metals Corp. is a proud member of Discovery Group. For more information please visit: http://www.discoverygroup.ca/

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Although ValOre believes that the expectations reflected in its forward-looking statements are reasonable, such statements have been based on factors and assumptions concerning future events that may prove to be inaccurate. These factors and assumptions are based upon currently available information to ValOre. Such statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that could influence actual results or events and cause actual results or events to differ materially from those stated, anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. A number of important factors including those set forth in other public filings could cause actual outcomes and results to differ materially from those expressed in these forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include the future operations of ValOre and economic factors. Readers are cautioned to not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The statements in this press release are made as of the date of this release and, except as required by applicable law, ValOre does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. ValOre undertakes no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of ValOre, or its financial or operating results or (as applicable), their securities.
Palm City - Margaret Jan Crandall passed away at home on November 14. Her daughter Martha and her husband Robert were at her side. Jan Crandall, nee Schmults, was born on June 2, 1935, in Barrington, Rhode Island. During WWII, the family lived in Newport where her father, Ernest, worked at t
A tow barge enters the icy Mississippi River from the confluence with the Illinois River east of Grafton, Illinois on Friday, February 12, 2021. The Ameren Sioux Energy Center in West Alton, Missouri is at right.
Red Bull Racing are not going to protest against Mercedes' rear suspension. Speaking to Sky Sports, Christian Horner explains why he thinks Mercedes benefited so much from this system in Turkey, but not in America.

Since the Russian Grand Prix Mercedes suddenly gained a lot of ground on the straight again. Where in Russia and Turkey it was first thought that the new engine would be on a higher setting for the final races, that turned out not to be the case. Helmut Marko indicated earlier that it mainly had to do with the aerodynamics.

Advantage for Mercedes

Prior to the United States Grand Prix, images of the new suspension of Mercedes were shown. It became clear that at high speed the car sinks down a bit. This results in the same effect as Red Bull achieved with the rear wing, namely less drag on the straight.

Of course, this explains the newfound straight-line speed of Mercedes, but it can't be completely new. After all, the rear suspension is part of the token system and therefore cannot be changed just like that. ''I said in the beginning that I don't think they are doing anything illegal. We have seen the effect in the past as well, but in Turkey, we saw an extreme version of this,'' Horner commented.

No protest from Red Bull

According to Formel1.de Experts reckon that the effect is most noticeable when the car has a soft setup and long straights. When the car needs to be set up 'stiffer' for fast corner combinations like in Austin, the extent to which the car can drop is much smaller.

Horner confirms that theory to Sky: ''It will have more effect on one straight than the other. On a circuit like Jeddah, I think it will bring them a lot. Based on what we've seen now, I don't believe it's illegal and I see no reason to make a protest,'' concludes the Red Bull Racing team boss.
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The further enhanced prototype of the hydrogen-based fuel-cell truck Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck has received approval from German authorities for use on public roads. In April, the truck manufacturer began to conduct tests of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck, which was unveiled in 2020, on the companys test tracks.

There, the truck, which aims to achieve ranges of up to 1,000 kilometrtes and more without any stops for refueling in its series version, has successfully accumulated several thousand miles by now. Now, testing is expanded to public roadsfor example, on the B462 road near Rastatt.

There, as part of the eWayBW project, freight will be electrified to test catenary trucks in operation. The project will also include comparative tests of the purely battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros with the catenary trucks and fuel-cell trucks from other manufacturers. Daimler Truck has no plans for catenary trucks.





Since July 2019, the purely battery-electric Mercedes-Benz eActros has proven its worth in extensive field-testing in the region around Rastatt at the company Logistik Schmitt. With the approval for road use of the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck, Daimler Truck has reached an important milestone on the way to series production.

The first series-produced GenH2 Trucks are expected to be handed over to customers starting in 2027. Daimler Truck has the ambition to offer only new vehicles that are carbon-neutral in driving operation (tank-to-wheel) in Europe, Japan and North America by 2039. To achieve this goal, Daimler Truck is electrifying its vehicles and pursuing a dual-track strategy with the use of battery-powered drive systems or based on hydrogen.

This combination of technologies enables Daimler Truck to offer customers the best vehicle options for their specific use cases: the lighter the load and the shorter the distance, the more likely it is that batteries will be used. The heavier the load and the longer the distance, the more likely it is that fuel cells will be system of choice, the company said.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Half its original size, President Joe Biden's big domestic policy plan is being pulled apart and reconfigured as Democrats edge closer to satisfying their most reluctant colleagues and finishing what's now about a $1.75 trillion package.

How to pay for it all remained deeply in flux Tuesday, with a proposed billionaires tax running into criticism as cumbersome or worse. Thats forcing difficult reductions, if not the outright elimination, of policy priorities  from paid family leave to child care to dental, vision and hearing aid benefits for seniors.

The once hefty climate change strategies are losing some punch, too, focusing away from punitive measures on polluters in a shift toward instead rewarding clean energy incentives.

Pressure mounting, Biden met Tuesday evening with two holdout Democrats  Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, according to a person who requested anonymity to discuss the private meeting. The president is pushing for an agreement before he departs for global summits later this week.

All told, Bidens package remains a substantial undertaking  and could still top $2 trillion in perhaps the largest effort of its kind from Congress in decades. But its far slimmer than the president and his party first envisioned.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi told lawmakers they were on the verge of something major, transformative, historic and bigger than anything else ever attempted in Congress, according to another person who requested anonymity to share her private remarks to the caucus.

We know that we are close, said Rep. Joyce Beatty, D-Ohio, the chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, after a meeting with Biden at the White House. And let me be explicitly clear: Our footprints and fingerprints are on this.

However, vast differences among Democrats remain over basic contours of the sweeping proposal and the tax revenue to pay for it.

From the White House, press secretary Jen Psaki said Biden still hoped to have a deal in hand to show foreign leaders the U.S. government was performing effectively on climate change and other major issues. But she acknowledged that might not happen, forcing him to keep working on the package from afar.

She warned about failure as opposed to compromise

The alternative to what is being negotiated is not the original package, she said. "It is nothing.

More lawmakers journeyed to the White House for negotiations on Tuesday and emerged upbeat that the end product would be substantial, despite the changes and reductions being forced on them by Manchin and Sinema.

Together the two senators have packed a one-two punch  Manchin forcing supporters to pare back health care, child care and other spending and Sinema causing Democrats to reconsider their plans to reverse the Trump-era tax cuts on corporations and the wealthy.

Resolving the revenue side is key as Biden insists all the new spending will be fully paid for and not piled onto the national debt. He vows any new taxes will hit only the wealthy, those earning more than $400,000 a year, or $450,000 for couples, and corporations he says must quit skipping out on taxes and start paying their fair share.

But the White House had to rethink its tax strategy after Sinema objected to her party's initial proposal to raise tax rates on corporations and the wealthy, With a 50-50 Senate, Biden has no votes to spare in his party.

Instead, to win over Sinema and others, the Democrats were poised to unveil a new plan for taxing the assets of billionaires. And on Tuesday they unveiled a proposal to require corporations with more than $1 billion in income to pay a 15% minimum tax, winning Sinema's backing.

Heres the heart of it: Americans read over the last few months that billionaires were paying little or no taxes for years on end, said Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, helming the effort.

Under Wydens emerging plan, the billionaires tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people. It would require those with assets of more than $1 billion, or three-years consecutive income of $100 million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

A similar billionaires tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires tax rate had not been set, but it was expected to be at least the 20% capital gains rate. Democrats have said it could raise $200 billion in revenue that could help fund Bidens package over 10 years.

Republicans deride the billionaires' tax and some have suggested it would face a legal challenge.

And key fellow Democrats were also raising concerns about the billionaires' tax, saying the idea of simply undoing the 2017 tax cuts by hiking top rates was more straightforward and transparent.

Rep. Richard Neal, D-Mass., the chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, said, Our plan looks better every day.

Under the bill approved by Neal's panel, the top individual income tax rate would rise from 37% to 39.6%, on those earning more than $400,000, or $450,000 for couples. The corporate rate would increase from 21% to 26.5%. The bill also proposes a 3% surtax on the wealthiest Americans with adjusted income beyond $5 million a year.

Less concerned about the new taxes, Manchin is forcing his party to reconsider the expansion of health, child care and climate change programs he views as costly or unnecessary government entitlements.

Still being debated: plans to expand Medicare coverage with dental, vision and hearing aid benefits for seniors; child care assistance; free pre-kindergarten; a new program of four-weeks paid family leave, and a more limited plan than envisioned to lower prescription drug costs.

On climate change, coal-state Sen. Manchin rejected Biden's earlier clean energy strategy as too punitive on providers that rely on fossil fuels. Instead, the White House floated an idea to beef up grants and loans to incentive clean energy sources.

Manchins resistance may scuttle one other tax idea  a plan to give the IRS more resources to go after tax scofflaws. He said he told Biden during their weekend meeting at the president's home in Delaware that that plan was messed up and would allow the government to monitor bank accounts.

Democrats are hoping to reach an agreement by week's end, paving the way for a House vote on a related $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill before routine transportation funds expire Sunday. That separate roads-and-bridges bill stalled when progressive lawmakers refused to support it until deliberations on the broader Biden bill were complete.

___

Associated Press writers Farnoush Amiri, Darlene Superville and Colleen Long contributed to this report.

___

This story has been corrected to show Rep. Richard Neal is from Massachusetts, not New Jersey.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The Democrats' idea for a new billionaires tax to help pay for President Joe Biden's social services and climate change plan quickly ran into criticism as too cumbersome with some lawmakers preferring the original plan of simply raising the top tax rates on corporations and the wealthy.

Biden said Monday hes hopeful the talks with Congress can wrap up overall agreement on the package this week. It's tallying at least $1.75 trillion, and could still be more. Biden said it would be very, very positive to get it done before he departs for two overseas global summits.

Thats my hope, the president said before leaving his home state of Delaware for a trip to New Jersey to highlight the child care proposals in the package and a related infrastructure measure. With the grace of God and the goodwill of the neighbors.

Resolving the revenue side is key as the Democrats scale back what had been a $3.5 trillion plan, insisting all the new spending will be fully paid for and not pile onto the debt. Biden vows any new taxes would hit only the wealthy, those earning more than $400,000 a year, or $450,000 for couples.

The White House had to rethink its tax strategy after one key Democrat, Sen. Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz., objected to her party's initial proposal to raise tax rates on wealthy Americans by undoing the Trump-era tax cuts on those earning beyond $400,000. Sinema also opposed lifting the 21% corporate tax rate. With a 50-50 Senate, Biden has no votes to spare in his party.

Instead, to win over Sinema and others, the White House has been floating a new idea of taxing the assets of billionaires and another that would require corporations to pay a 15% minimum tax, regardless of if they show any profits. Those both appear to be gaining traction with another pivotal Democrat, Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., who told reporters he supported new ways to ensure the wealthy to pay their fair share.

Democrats on the Senate Finance Committee, led by Sen. Ron Wyden of Oregon, are prepared to roll out the tax revenue plan in a matter of days. It is likely to include other revenue-raising tax measures, including a plan to beef up the IRS to go after tax scofflaws.

Here's the heart of it: Americans read over the last few months that billionaires were paying little or no taxes for years on end, Wyden said at the Capitol.

The billionaires tax is being modeled on a 2019 bill from Wyden to treat assets as income. Another idea, up to a 3% ultra-rich surtax, has been proposed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

Under Wydens emerging plan, the billionaires tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people. It would require those with assets of more than $1 billion, or three-years consecutive income of $100 million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

A similar billionaires tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires tax rate has not been set, but it is expected to be at least the 20% capital gains rate. Democrats have said it could raise $200 billion in revenue that could help fund Biden's package over 10 years.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called it a hare-brained scheme and warned of revenue drying up during downturns. Some Republicans indicated such a tax plan could be challenged in court.

But key fellow Democrats are also raising concerns, saying the idea of simply undoing the 2017 tax cuts by hiking top rates was more straightforward and transparent.

Under the House's bill from the Ways and Means Committee, the top individual income tax rate would rise from 37% to 39.6%, on those earning more than $400,000, or $450,000 for couples. The corporate rate would increase from 21% to 26.5%. The bill also proposed a 3% surtax on wealthier Americans with adjusted income beyond $5 million a year.

The panel's chairman, Rep. Richard Neal, D-N.J., said he told Wyden in a discussion Monday that the implementation of the senator's proposed billionaire's plan is a bit more challenging.

Neal suggested that the House's proposal was off the table despite Sinema's objections. In fact, he said, our plan looks better every day.

Once Democrats agree to the tax proposals, they can assess how much is funding available for Biden's overall package to expand health care, child care and other climate change programs.

Democrats were hoping Biden could cite major accomplishments to world leaders later this week. They are also facing an Oct. 31 deadline to pass a related $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure package of roads, broadband and other public works before routine federal transportation funds expire.

We need to get this done, Biden said in remarks at a New Jersey transit center.

After months of start-and-stop negotiations, Biden's overall package is now being eyed as at least $1.75 trillion. But it could still climb considerably higher, according to a second person who insisted on anonymity to discuss the private talks.

Biden huddled with the conservative West Virginia Democrat Manchin and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer at the presidents Delaware home on Sunday as they work on resolving the disputes between centrists and progressives that have stalled the bill.

Disputes remain over far-reaching investments, including plans to expand Medicare coverage with dental, vision and hearing aid benefits for seniors; child care assistance; free pre-kindergarten; and a new program of four-weeks paid family leave.

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said expected an agreement by weeks end, paving the way for a House vote on the $1 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill. The Senate had approved that over the summer, but the measure stalled during deliberations on the broader Biden bill.

But Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus whose support will be crucial for both bills, said lawmakers want more than just a framework for Biden's plan before they give their votes for the smaller infrastructure package.

We want the whole bill, Jayapal told The Associated Press. We want to vote on both bills at the same time.

___

Associated Press writers Farnoush Amiri, Hope Yen and Colleen Long contributed to this report.
TOKYO (AP)  Japanese Princess Mako quietly married a commoner without traditional wedding celebrations Tuesday and said their marriage  delayed three years and opposed by some  "was a necessary choice to live while cherishing our hearts.

The marriage to Kei Komuro cost Mako her royal status. She received her husband's surname  the first time she has had a family name. Most Japanese women must abandon their own family names upon marriage due to a law requiring only one surname per married couple.

The couples marriage document was submitted by a palace official on Tuesday morning and made official, the Imperial Household Agency said. There was no wedding banquet or other marriage rituals for the couple. The agency has acknowledged that many people have not welcomed their marriage.

For me, Kei-san is a priceless person. For us, our marriage was a necessary choice to live while cherishing our hearts, Mako said in a televised news conference, using an honorific in speaking of her husband.

Komuro responded: I love Mako. I live only once and I want to spend it with someone I love." He said he hopes to be with Mako to share feelings and encourage each other in happy times and difficult times.

I hope to have a warm family with Mako-san, and I will continue to do everything to support her, he said.

Mako earlier declined a 140 million yen ($1.23 million) payment to which she was entitled for leaving the imperial family, palace officials said. She is the first imperial family member since World War II to not receive the payment and chose to do so because of criticism of the marriage.

Mako, who turned 30 three days before the marriage, is a niece of Emperor Naruhito. She and Komuro, who were classmates at Tokyos International Christian University, announced in September 2017 that they intended to marry the following year, but a financial dispute involving his mother surfaced two months later and the wedding was suspended.

On Tuesday morning, Mako left the palace wearing a pale blue dress and holding a bouquet. She bowed outside the residence to her parents, Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, and her sister Kako, and then the sisters hugged each other.

The couple did not answer questions at the news conference as Mako had expressed unease about responding in person. Instead, they provided written answers to questions submitted by the media beforehand, including those about his mother's financial issues.

Mako is recovering from what palace doctors described earlier this month as a form of traumatic stress disorder that she developed after seeing negative media coverage about their marriage, especially attacks on Komuro.

We have been horrified, scared and saddened ... as false information has been taken as fact and that unfounded stories have spread," Mako said in a written answer to one of the questions.

The dispute involves whether money his mother received from her former fiance was a loan or a gift. Makos father asked Komuro to clarify, and he wrote a statement defending himself, but it is still unclear if the dispute has been fully resolved.

Komuro, 30, left for New York in 2018 to study law and only returned to Japan last month. His hair was tied in a ponytail at the time and the look drew attention as a bold statement for someone marrying a princess in the tradition-bound imperial family and only added to the criticism.

The couple will move together to New York to start a new life.

Many in Tokyo wished them good luck.

Congratulations," said office worker Yasuhiro Suzuki. "I hope people in America will welcome them.

Retiree Kenko Suzuki said he expects life in New York will be challenging because they will have to live without people taking care of them. So I'm rooting for them, he said.

There will be different kinds of difficulties as we start our new life, but well walk together as we have done so in the past, Mako said, thanking everyone who supported them.

Mako, apparently referring to mental health issues, noted many people have difficulty and hurt feelings while trying to protect their hearts." She said, I sincerely hope that our society will be a place where more people can live and protect their hearts with the help of warm help and support from others.

Mako is not the only female royal whose mental health was strained by attacks from inside and outside the palace.

Her grandmother, Empress Emerita Michiko, wife of former Emperor Akihito and the first commoner married to a monarch in modern history, collapsed and temporarily lost her voice in 1993 following persistent negative coverage.

Empress Masako, a Harvard-educated former diplomat, has had a stress-induced mental condition for nearly 20 years, in part because of criticism over not producing a male heir.

Some critics say Mako's marriage highlights the difficulties faced by women in the Japanese imperial household.

Mako's loss of royal status comes from the Imperial House Law, which allows only male succession.

Only male royals have household names, while female imperial family members have only titles and must leave if they marry commoners.

The male-only succession practice leaves only Akishino and his son, Prince Hisahito, in line to succeed Emperor Naruhito. A panel of government-appointed experts is discussing a more stable succession system, but conservatives still reject female succession and allowing women to head the imperial family.

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Associated Press journalist Chisato Tanaka contributed to this report.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Gov. John Bel Edwards said Tuesday hes largely ending Louisianas nearly three-month-old indoor mask mandate since the state has emerged from its latest coronavirus spike and is seeing lower rates of COVID-19 infection.

I stand here today optimistic, relieved that the worst of the fourth surge is very clearly behind us now, Edwards said.

But while the Democratic governor is lifting the mask requirement for grocery stores, restaurants, bars, retailers, colleges and other sites, hes keeping a complicated set of face-covering rules in place for Louisianas K-12 schools.

School districts that maintain tight quarantine regulations for students who come into close contact with someone who tests positive for COVID-19 wont be required to have a mask mandate. But those districts that dont require all exposed students to be sent home will have to keep students and staff masked up, under Edwards new regulations taking effect Wednesday.

The Edwards administration said stricter requirements should remain in place at schools because children have greater exposure risks, with students under 12 unable to yet get vaccinated against the coronavirus and sitting in crowded classrooms for hours.

The split decision for schools highlights Edwards displeasure with Superintendent of Education Cade Brumleys loosening of quarantine guidance for hundreds of thousands of K-12 students.

Brumley is no longer suggesting schools send home asymptomatic students who have come into close contact with someone who tests positive for COVID-19, as is recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Instead, Brumley suggests parents could choose whether to send their children to school if they dont have symptoms, arguing too many students have missed days of school because of quarantines.

Edwards and public health officials disagreed with Brumleys decision. Many of Louisianas school systems have refused to change their quarantine rules despite the superintendents new guidance, saying theyll stick with the advice of medical experts.

Brumley called Edwards' changed mask rules a step in the right direction of getting students back to normalcy." But the superintendent added in his statement that local school systems should be fully entrusted with the ability to implement quarantine procedures meeting the needs of their communities."

Though Edwards decided to lift most of the face-covering mandate across Louisiana, masks will be required at airports, on planes, on public transportation and in medical facilities because of federal rules. Individual businesses also can enact their own mask requirements if they choose.

Louisiana State University announced it will keep its indoor mask mandate in place through the end of the semester. New Orleans also wont necessarily follow the governors lead, with a city spokesperson saying Mayor LaToya Cantrell wants to look closely at the data before making any decisions about easing the city's masking requirements.

Edwards said he'd consider returning to the face-covering requirement if Louisiana sees another surge in the coronavirus illness: I hope we won't need it, but I won't hesitate to do it.

In August, Edwards reinstated Louisianas now-expiring mask mandate for all public indoor locations as the state faced its worst surge of the coronavirus illness and had the highest per capita COVID-19 infection growth in the nation. At the time, hospitals were overrun with COVID-19 patients, describing stretchers filled with people waiting for beds and critical surgeries delayed.

The face-covering requirement covered both vaccinated and unvaccinated people  though the Edwards administration made little public effort to strongly enforce the mandate.

Shortly after the mandate resumed, the number of people hospitalized with COVID-19 per day peaked at a state-high of more than 3,000 and then started to fall. The number of COVID-19 hospitalizations has since dropped to 323, the lowest since early July and among the smallest number since the pandemic began, according to state data.

Louisiana now has one of the nations lowest rates of new COVID-19 infections, according to the CDC. The percentage of COVID-19 tests returning positive also has dropped sizably over the last two months, falling below 3% statewide.

Though the last surge boosted coronavirus vaccination interest, Louisiana continues to have one of the country's lowest immunization rates  with only 47% of the state's population fully vaccinated.

We will remain vulnerable in Louisiana to another surge until we can get more of our friends, family and neighbors vaccinated, said Dr. Joe Kanter, the governor's chief public health adviser.

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AP reporter Kevin McGill contributed to this report from New Orleans.

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Follow APs coverage of the pandemic at https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic. Follow Melinda Deslatte on Twitter at http://twitter.com/melindadeslatte.
GREENWICH  More than half of the 85 cases of COVID-19 reported in Greenwich Public Schools this fall are due to outside activities or family contact, with only three cases traced to in-school transmission, according to the latest update on the districts online tracker.

As of Tuesday, five new cases of COVID-19 were reported, which followed the four new cases reported last Friday, according to the tracker.

There are currently nine active cases of COVID-19 in the district, impacting seven schools. There are two cases each reported at North Street and Parkway and one case each at Central Middle, Eastern Middle, Greenwich High, New Lebanon and Western Middle, according to the tracker. Those are the first cases reported at Parkway.

Of the nine active cases, four were attributed to family or outside activity and five were of undetermined origin, according to the district. Those cases impact five students, one teacher, two service providers and one non-teaching staff member.

For the 85 cases of COVID-19 reported among students, teachers and staff since classes began on Sept. 1, 45 cases have been attributed to family or outside transmission, 28 to undetermined origin and three to in-school contact, according to the tracker.

The vast majority of the 85 cases reported this school year were among students, with 69 cases.

Since the start of the school year, the most cases of COVID-19 have been reported at Hamilton Avenue, with 15 cases, followed by North Mianus with 14 cases, Greenwich High with 13 and Glenville with 11. No cases have been reported at Cos Cob or Windrose/CC.

A total of 13 families in the school district have seen multiple cases of COVID-19, with 30 cases reported among those families.

As of Oct. 16, 86.6 percent of the children ages 12 to 17 in Greenwich have received the COVID-19 vaccine, according to the tracker.

The school district updates its online tracker every Tuesday and Friday morning to alert the GPS community about updates on COVID-19. For the 2020-21 school year, a total of 697 cases of COVID-19 were reported districtwide.

Statewide as of Oct. 21, Connecticuts school submission summary of COVID-19 reported 550 cases of COVID-19 among students, teachers and staff in public and private schools during the week of Oct. 14 through Oct. 20.

That is down slightly from the 588 cases reported during the week of Oct. 7 through Oct. 13 and from the 601 cases during the week of Sept. 30 through Oct. 6. There were 686 cases from Sept. 23 through Sept. 29, which was a big drop from the 855 cases the week before that. The state updates its schools COVID-19 data every Thursday.

As in past weeks, the decline in cases among students and school staff was similar to the trend of infections statewide. Both the positivity rate of new COVID-19 tests and hospitalizations were among the lowest since a spike at the end of the summer.

Last Friday, the governors office said the school mask mandate could be lifted when more children are vaccinated.

The state and its partners are preparing to vaccinate the more than 275,000 children ages 5 through 11 against the virus. Considering the vast majority of COVID cases in schools are among students who are not vaccinated, that effort is likely to drive the numbers down further, officials said.

With the availability of vaccines for 5- to 11-year-olds expected in the coming weeks, that leaves open the possibility that masks in schools could eventually go away during the school year, said Max Reiss, a spokesman for Gov. Ned Lamont. Reiss added that it will be dependent on how many parents choose to get their children vaccinated.

Under an executive order from Lamont, masks are required for everyone, regardless of immunization status, in all school buildings statewide until at least Feb. 15. The legislature last month granted an extension of the governors emergency powers covering COVID-19  and the mandates now in place.

Asked about a vaccine mandate in schools, Reiss said that possibility is nowhere near the horizon.

Many are hopeful the number of vaccines among children will climb quickly if the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention give approval for the Pfizer-BioNTech to be administered to children ages 5 to 11. Children 12 and older already have the ability to get the vaccine.

An approval for the younger age group would then make all K-12 students eligible for a vaccine.

The White House and state officials anticipate an approval could come in the next several weeks. In anticipation, the state said last week it was planning to order 150,000 doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children in a three-wave process.

Staff Writer Nicholas Rondinone contributed to this story.
NEWTOWN  State police said a Hartford woman whose car broke down was killed when she was struck by a truck on Interstate 84 early Monday morning.

State police identified the victim as Samantha Figueroa, 22.

The Mercury sedan Figueroa was driving had broken down in the left lane of the highway traveling east near Exit 13 around 3:30 a.m., according to an accident summary from state police.

Figueroa had exited the car and was standing in the left lane attempting to flag down passing vehicles, when she and her car were struck by a Mack truck that was negotiating a curve, the accident report stated.

She was taken to St. Mary's Hospital in Waterbury where she succumbed to her injuries, state police said.

The car Figueroa was driving was registered to a limo service in Plainville, according to the report. The truck was registered to a company out of Georgia. Both vehicles were disabled in the collision and were later towed from the scene.

The crash closed an area of Interstate 84 east for hours Monday morning, and was initially reported as a collision involving a pedestrian, according to the state Department of Transportation.

Around 4 a.m., the state DOT reported the highway was shut down at Exit 11 because of a crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.

By around 10:20 a.m., the highways lanes had reopened to traffic.

State police have asked any witnesses to the crash to contact Trooper Loughman at Troop A in Southbury at 203-267-2200.

Peter Yankowski contributed reporting.
For a while now, Samsung's been doing this thing where it sometimes releases a security patch before even Google gets round to it. It's usually at the very end of a month when a specific Samsung device might get next month's security update, but the distance keeps growing.

Case in point: a few hours ago, when it was still October 25, the company has started rolling out the November security patch to Galaxy S21 Ultra units purchased in Germany. This is a new record, releasing such an update six days before the actual "security patch level" you'll have once you apply it - that will be November 1, 2021. Welcome to the future, then, S21 Ultra owners!

As we said, it's only going out in Germany so far, but expect the rollout to be quickly extended to more countries and regions in the next few days. The changelog is very vague and only mentions general security improvements and bug fixes.

It's a 222MB download, and once you've installed it you'll be on software version G998BXXS3AUJ7.

Source | Via
The saga with the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE arrival looks to be at its end. The Korean company has reuploaded the support pages for the phone with model number SM-G990 in at least two different markets, after taking them down earlier, which lead to speculations that the phone has been scrapped.

This action is pretty much confirming the January 11 launch, which in turn suggests the Galaxy S22 will not come until February. We also hope to see the Galaxy Tab S8 series, rumored to have vanilla and Ultra flavors at one of those events.



Samsung Galaxy S21 FE | Source: LetsGoDigital

The G990E variant, appearing on Samsung Africa website and likely part of the global portfolio, has been spotted on Geekbench with Exynos 2100. We do expect the Snapdragon 888 chip to power the US and Chinese variants, but the situation has been so confusing, we now hesitate to believe anything related to the Galaxy S21 FE.

When the phone arrives, it should have three cameras in a similar design as the Galaxy S21, but with the camera island in the same color and material as the back panel. If we trust the leaks so far, the device should have a 6.4 AMOLED screen and a 4,500 mAh battery with 25W fast charging.

Via
Sony Xperia Pro-I



Exp. release 2021, December

221g, 8.9mm thickness

Android 11

512GB storage, microSDXC

22% 436,972 hits

283 Become a fan

6.5" 1644x3840 pixels

12 MP 2160p

12 GB RAM Snapdragon 888 5G

4500 mAh Li-Po

Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Update: Check out our Sony Xperia Pro-I hands-on review.

Out of the blue, Sony has a new Xperia Pro phone. The Xperia Pro-I (where 'I' stands for 'Imaging') is the first phone outside Japan to deliver a 1.0-inch camera sensor with phase-detect autofocus.

That 1.0-inch type imager is taken straight off the company's very popular RX100 VII compact camera, but it has been 'optimized for a smartphone'. What that means is that the Xperia Pro-I uses a big chunk of that sensor (but not all of it) to produce 12MP images with a 2.4m pixel pitch - that's some 20% larger than the iPhone 13 Pro Max' pixels and about the same size as those from the Galaxy S21 Ultra's main camera, after binning. So despite not using the full 1.0-inch sensor area, the Xperia Pro-I does end up with a huge sensor only really bested by the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra and its 2.8m binned pixels.

In front of that Exmor RS sensor sits a Zeiss-coated, stabilized 24mm lens with a variable aperture that goes from f/2.0 for the shallowest depth of field to f/4.0 when utmost sharpness is the goal.

The Xperia Pro-I has another pair of 12MP cameras - a 16mm f/2.2 ultrawide unit and a 50mm f/2.4 2x telephoto snapper. It's a bit of a disappointment that Sony was unable to fit the 70mm-105mm variable-zoom periscope from the Xperia 1 III and Xperia 5 III in the Xperia Pro-I, though.

Back to that main camera. It features Sony's pro-grade Real-time Eye autofocus for both humans and animals, both in stills and video. The Xperia Pro-I can lock up to a subject thanks to 315 phase-detect AF points across 90% of the frame. The Bionz X image signal processor, found in the Xperia 1 III and 5 III is in charge of handling the Xperia Pro-I video and photo processing.

Sony has equipped the Xperia Pro-I with two physical camera controls. There's a two-stage shutter key, complete with a textured surface and professional dampening. The other is a circular shortcut button, to which Sony has mapped the Videography Pro app. The app gives enthusiasts pro-level control over parameters like white balance, exposure and focus. While Cinematography Pro has Sony's VENICE cinema camera-inspired color modes and the option to shoot in cinema 21:9.

Adding to its video credentials, the Xperia Pro-I is capable of shooting 4K video at up to 120fps for 5x slow motion. Sony will aim the Xperia Pro-I at vloggers with a special Vlog Monitor - a 3.5-inch 1280x720px monitor accessory that attaches to the Xperia Pro-I's rear and allows you to film yourself with the new 1.0-inch type camera sensor.



Sony Vlog Monitor

The rest of the Xperia Pro-I takes after the Xperia 1 III - a 6.5-inch 4K OLED capable of 120Hz refresh rate and a Snapdragon 888 chipset with 12GB of RAM.

You get ample 512GB storage, expandable through a microSD card, and a 4,500mAh battery. In the box, the Xperia Pro-I comes with a case, 30W charger, and USB cable.

Sony will begin selling the Xperia Pro-I in December, in the UK, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the Nordics. You might want to sit down for the price though as it's 1,799. The Vlog Monitor is another 199, and it needs a back cover attachment for the Xperia Pro-I for an additional 89.99. Then again, it's not too bad if you compare it to the original Xperia Pro.
Xiaomi is bringing the Redmi Note 11 series in China on Thursday, and today we got to learn another key feature about the new lineup. At least one of the phones will have a 108 MP camera with 2.1 m large pixels, just like the Redmi Note 10 Pro/Pro Max.



Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 series camera details

The size of a single pixel is just marketing talk - in reality, the pixels are 0.7 m, but thanks to the 9-to-1 pixel binning technology, they will be grouped into a single 2.1 m pixel to receive more light and provide a better image in certain scenarios.

The default resolution of the 108 MP photos will be 4:3 since the resolution will be 12,000 x 9,000. Xiaomi is likely going to reintroduce the very same Samsung HM2 sensor that was in the previous generations of Redmi Note phones since the current Samsung HM3 platform is slightly different from the specs the brand is promising.

Source (in Chinese) | Via
Esther Ahn, Dear Tree Learning Center & Art Studio art director and co-founder, takes you on a brief tour of the creativity center recently opened in Tamuning.
Guam exists largely outside the trade and customs zone  Guam Customs Authority not U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Curtis James Blas and Donavan Elliott Alianza Carriaga were charged with aggravated murder Tuesday in connection with the disappearance of Adam Messier in 2017.

Messier was first reported missing Sept. 21, 2017, after a family member reported she hadnt seen or talked with Messier in over a week, according to a magistrates complaint filed by the Office of the Attorney General.

No other relatives had seen or heard from him. Police interviewed his roommates, who said he moved out sometime in mid-September, the complaint stated.

More than three years later, on Dec. 27, 2020, police officers received an anonymous tip that a man and woman were involved with the disappearance of Messier, but efforts to locate them were unsuccessful.

Witness

On Oct. 17, 2021, the woman accused of being involved in the disappearance was detained because of several open cases against her. Officers interviewed her about Messier, according to the complaint.

She told them that on Sept. 1, 2017, she and her boyfriend, who is now deceased, moved into a Tumon Horizon Condo unit with Messier, who was already living there.

She said that about a week later, the boyfriend got upset with Messier because he threatened to report him to his landlord for illicit drug use, and the boyfriend wanted to tie him up and beat him, according to the complaint.

The following morning, the woman woke up to see Messier being beaten by four men, the complaint stated.

Two of the men were identified as Blas and Carriaga, relatives of her boyfriend, the complaint stated.

Blas reportedly told the woman one of the men was beating up Messier while Carriaga strangled him with a tie strap, and another man held him down. Later, they disposed of Messiers body, according to the complaint.

Blas talks

On Monday afternoon, Blas told investigators he was one of the men who assisted in beating Messier, the complaint stated.

Blas joined Carriaga and another man in punching Messier, while a fourth man was seen hitting him with a bat, according to the complaint. Blas also saw Carriaga wrap a wire or cord of some sort around Messiers neck while one man continued to hit him until he was still, the complaint stated.

One man then instructed Blas, Carriaga and the other man to dispose of Messiers body, which they did, according to the complaint.

Blas and Carriaga were charged with aggravated murder as a first-degree felony.

Magistrates hearing

Blas and Carriaga appeared before Magistrate Judge Jonathan Quan at the Superior Court of Guam Tuesday afternoon.

Blas was given a $100,000 cash bail while Carriaga was given $200,000 cash bail.

The pair were ordered not to make contact with each other or anyone involved in the case. Their next court appearance is scheduled at 4 p.m. on Nov. 4.

Case overturned

Years before he went missing, Messier was convicted of sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl.

He appealed his 2013 conviction and in 2018, the year after he went missing, the Supreme Court of Guam overturned the conviction.
The Guam Department of Education is planning to incorporate the ACT WorkKeys as another standardized testing for high school students, according to Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum Joe Sanchez.

The ACT WorkKeys is a career readiness assessment that tests students in applied reading, writing, mathematics, and essential skills.

Though the test is already offered in schools, students were not required to take it. However, the department has been in discussion to use the tests as early as the ninth grade, and have all students take the tests in their junior and senior years, Sanchez said.

The WorkKeys test not only shows if a student is college or job-ready, but it also reveals the readiness level of the student, Sanchez said.

Students can actually use that as information ... if they want to improve or if there is a particular job or career that they wanted to get into and they need to improve those skills, said Sanchez.

Although the WorkKeys can also measure the ability to handle college-level course, Sanchez said it will help students who dont go to college.

With tests like the ACT or even a SAT 10, it was nice to know how well you did on the test but theres no practical application to it. You cant take your test score to an employer, said Sanchez. The minute an employer whos familiar with the WorkKeys sees it, they already know what level youre at.

Recently, Guam DOE adopted the Smarter Balanced Assessment System as their new state-wide assessment, replacing the ACT Aspire.

Sanchez noted that the newly adopted standardized test can also be used as a college entrance exam and is used by several states.

Officials are also looking into including the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, an aptitude test that measures the potential for success in military training.

Currently, these plans are still part of their proposal for the overall comprehensive student assessment system and need to be approved by the Guam Board of Education.

If approved, they will be implemented next school year.
Guam recorded three more COVID-19-related fatalities, bringing the islands COVID-related deaths to 230, according to the Joint Information Center Tuesday.

All three deaths occurred at Guam Memorial Hospital.

The 228th COVID-19-related fatality was Oct. 20. The patient was a 51-year-old unvaccinated man who tested positive Sept. 7.

The 229th COVID-19 -related fatality was marked Oct. 25. The patient was a 72-year-old unvaccinated woman with underlying health conditions. She tested positive Oct. 12.

The 230th COVID-19 -related fatality was pronounced dead Oct. 26. The patient was a 96-year-old partially vaccinated woman with underlying health conditions. She tested positive Oct. 15.

To their family and friends, our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero said in a news release.

The notice of other members of our community lost while battling this virus is a stark reminder that this is not just the flu. Protect yourselves against this deadly virus by getting vaccinated and taking precautions seriously, she said. Lets not let our guard down.

Hospitalizations

There were 51 people hospitalized with COVID-19, including 10 in intensive care and six on ventilators, the Joint Information Center reported.

Of the 51 people in island hospitals, 32 were at Guam Memorial Hospital, including one pediatric admission, seven in the ICU and four on ventilators.

There were 16 people at Guam Regional Medical City, with two in the ICU and one on a ventilator.

The Naval Hospital Guam had three hospitalized, with one in the ICU and one on a ventilator.

Of the 51 people hospitalized, 21 were vaccinated, 26 werent and one was ineligible for vaccination.

Guams CAR score is 17.5.

Cases

Public Health recorded 152 new cases of COVID-19 out of 1,334 tests performed Oct. 25. Of those, 41 were identified through contact tracing.

There have been officially 17,823 reported cases of COVID-19 on Guam and 2,115 cases are in active isolation.
A 20-year-old man was charged in connection with assaulting a man with brass knuckles.

BJ Ifraim, 20, became the subject of a disturbance complaint when officers arrived at a Tamuning residence early Sunday morning, according to a magistrate's complaint filed in the Superior Court of Guam.

Ifraim arrived at a residence drunk, and called out to someone to beat up another man. The man tried running up the stairs, and Ifraim punched him on the head with brass knuckles, according to the complaint.

When officers asked if Ifraim consumed any alcohol, Ifraim replied, "a lot, but I only drank after work," documents state.

Men indicted in former Marine's death John Mike Muliaga and Fiataugaluia Ahkee were indicted on charges connected to the death of 

Officers saw Ifraim's eyes were bloodshot and that he had a strong odor of alcohol, the complaint stated.

When asked what happened, Ifraim replied, "I don't remember things when I drink. I become a monster."

Ifraim was charged with:
Bernie Paul was charged with assaulting a police officer a day after he was released on bond for the same crime.

On Saturday morning, police received a report Paul had refused to leave a Toto store after being asked to leave, according to a magistrate's complaint filed in the Superior Court of Guam.

Paul walked around the store asking customers to buy him beer or other items, the complaint said.

When an officer asked Paul to leave the store, Paul refused and then punched an officer in the face. As police tried to pull Paul to the ground, Paul attempted to pull the firearm from the officer's holster, documents state.

Paul had bloodshot, watery eyes, slurred speech and a strong odor of alcohol.

The day before, Paul appeared in court for two charges of assault against a peace officer. Paul was released on a $5,000 recognizance bond and house arrest. He was ordered not to drink alcohol, not to have firearms and to obey all laws.

Paul was charged with:

Assault on a police officer as a third-degree felony with a notice of commission of a felony while on felony release.

Disarming a police officer as a third-degree felony with a notice of commission of a felony while on felony release.

Resisting arrest as a misdemeanor.

Criminal trespass as a petty misdemeanor.

Oct. 20 arrest

On Oct. 20 Paul was seen fighting with two police officers in east Hagatna, documents state.

Another officer observed Paul resist arrest when he was being handcuffed, and he threw several punches at the officers, according to court documents.

Man faces felony charges after traffic stop A 40-year-old man who was reportedly involved in a disturbance in Dededo last week faces mul

The responding officers reported Paul kicked an officer in the leg and punched the officer's head. One officer's head hit the concretein the struggle with Paul, documents state.

Paul was charged with two counts of assault against a peace officer as third-degree felonies and disorderly conduct as a violation.
A motion to dismiss has been filed on a court order for two of Guams medical licensing boards.

Petitioner David Lubofsky requested a court order to compel Guam Board of Allied Health Examiners and Guam Board of Medical Examiners to create rules for the handling of complaints brought against practitioners that they represent.

Presiding Judge Arthur Barcinas, in the Superior Court of Guam, issued an alternative writ of mandate in August, ordering the creation of rules.

Court documents state Lubofsky filed multiple reports against Guam Board of Medical Examiners licensees in September 2020, stating that they acted in an unprofessional, improper, incompetent, and unlawful manner in the treatment of his son, Asher Dean S. Lubofsky, who died 20 hours after being admitted to Guam Memorial Hospital in 2018.

Another three complaints were filed against Guam Board of Allied Health Examiners licensees that month, and all reports were pending as of June of this year.

Deputy Attorney General Robert Weinberg, who is representing both boards, filed a motion to dismiss the petition on Oct. 19.

In the motion, Weinberg argues that both boards have rules and regulations in place for investigations.

The petitioner is fully aware of this fact, as he has filed numerous complaint forms  which have led to the assignment of individual board members as investigators, followed by the collection of records and interviews, he wrote.

Lubofsky doesnt have standing, the motion states, and the boards cant be compelled to create any rules. A petition for the board to create such rules would have to be filed under the Administrative Adjudication Law.

The writ also ordered the Guam Board of Medical Examiners to create a searchable website with profiles for each licensed physician and a history of complaints brought against doctors, which was required by Public Law 34-79 in 2018.

As for the website, the motion argues that the 2018 law that set it forth was not mandatory, even with a 120-day deadline in place, as no consequence was specified if the board failed to comply.

The Guam Board of Medical Examiners has taken steps to comply with the unfunded law, he stated, but although a professional web design firm has been employed, the (Health Professional Licensing Office) has only one staff member available to provide that firm with the required content in a searchable database.

Weinbergs motion hadnt made it to Barcinas file by Oct. 19, when the Guam Board of Medical Examiners and Guam Board of Allied Health Examiners were set to appear before the court. Lubofskys attorney, Vanessa Williams, will have until Nov. 3 to file opposition, and Weinberg will have another week to reply before a hearing is scheduled.
A job fair to hire employees for COVID-19 response efforts by the Department of Public Health and Social Services will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the American Jobs Center located in the Bell Tower in Anigua.

In collaboration with the Guam Department of Labor, Public Health is looking for about 70 people to fill positions to assist with community outreach, processing of laboratory specimens, case investigation, health disparities, administrative duties, nursing and other functions.

On Saturday, what we want to do is make sure that there is a day that they can actually come in to a physical job fair and meet with recruiters and submit their applications in person as well, said Public Health spokeswoman Janela Carrera.

She said packets can be submitted via email after Saturday until positions are filled.

When a position is filled, it will be removed from the online listings.

Prior to the job fair, potential applicants should try to prepare an application packet, Carrera said, which should include official proof of identity, work eligibility, a resume and a high school diploma, GED, college degree or transcripts from a recognized accredited institution.

Some interviews may be conducted at the fair, said Carrera. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed.

I encourage all those who are interested in a government job to come down and apply for it, said Guam Department of Labor Director David DellIsola.

He said it will be a limited-term employment of one to two years but its a good way to get your foot in the door because once you are there and working hard and prove yourself as an asset, you never know, that might lead to a classified job.

The number of open positions is based on the amount of grant funding Public Health has received from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The majority of funding is from a grant of about $6.6 million to address health disparities, particularly in Micronesian communities. Another source is the Community Health Workers Grant.
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Haiti - FLASH : Deprived of fuel by gangs, the country at the gates of hell





The control of access to oil terminals by gangs prevents regular supplies to the country, jeopardizing the entire functioning of Haiti if the situation continues. In addition to travel needs, Haiti needs precious fuel, to produce a large part of its electricity allowing all the activities that depend on it to operate, for which the health sector or the lives of certain patients are threatened...



The effects are already being felt from lack of fuel. More than 150 Digicel antennas sites are at a standstill https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35057-haiti-technology-15-of-digicel-antennas-non-operational.html , radio stations could stop broadcasting 24 hours a day, hospitals are dysfunctional and some will have to suspend healthcare services for the population in the next few hours https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35078-haiti-flash-lack-of-fuel-the-lives-of-patients-are-threatened-in-hospitals.html



If the situation continues, it will be the companies, factories and businesses that will stop functioning one after the other.



As for the EDH, we must expect the multiplication of blackouts and restrictions in the water distribution, the DINEPA pumping stations needing fuel to operate https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-28890-haiti-notice-drinking-water-distribution-compromised-by-the-demonstrations.html



On Monday, the coalition of "G9" gangs still controlled all the roads leading to the Varreux Terminal, which prevented the transporters of petroleum products from obtaining supplies after having put an end to their strike movement and received the assurance of the authorities concerned that they will ensure their safety. However, petrol stations are still not supplied due to the climate of insecurity, barricades blocking roads and automatic gunfire reported throughout the day. As for the security promised by the authorities it was only not there...



The leader of a gang "Micanor" operating at Wharf Jeremie, reportedly demanded 50 million gourdes from the Government to allow access to the Varreux terminal.



Note that the Varreux terminal would currently have a reserve of around 25,000 gasoline and more than 50,000 barrels of diesel ( 3 days of Haitian consumption). In addition, the cargo of petroleum products arrived in Port-au-Prince the past weekend https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-35032-icihaiti-flash-1-000-gdes-per-gallon-of-fuel-on-the-black-market-calendar-of-arrivals.html could not be unloaded at the Varreux terminal due to insecurity



For its part Medecins Sans Frontieres has sounded the alarm on the fuel shortage maintained by the gangs which seriously affects its operations in Haiti "If the situation persists, the Traumatology / Major Burns Hospital of Tabarre, which receives an average of 155 patients per month, may have to reduce its activities and restrict its admission criteria in the coming days." Other hospitals threaten to suspend their services from this Tuesday if nothing is done to supply them with fuel https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35078-haiti-flash-lack-of-fuel-the-lives-of-patients-are-threatened-in-hospitals.html



Dr Didier Herold Louis, Director of the National Ambulance Center, very affected by the fuel shortage, is alarmed by the inability of the institution to obtain fuel and risks rendering the national ambulance service dysfunctional as of Tuesday October 26...



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35057-haiti-technology-15-of-digicel-antennas-non-operational.html

https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-35032-icihaiti-flash-1-000-gdes-per-gallon-of-fuel-on-the-black-market-calendar-of-arrivals.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35078-haiti-flash-lack-of-fuel-the-lives-of-patients-are-threatened-in-hospitals.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-28890-haiti-notice-drinking-water-distribution-compromised-by-the-demonstrations.html



SL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - FLASH : UN experts condemn the expulsions of Haitians by Washington





On Monday, October 25, 2021, a group of 5 UN human rights experts condemned Washington's expulsions of Haitian migrants and refugees, saying they were part of a policy of "racialised exclusion" of black Haitians at the entry points of the American borders.



As part of their so-called "Title 42" policy adopted last year by the administration of former President Donald Trump for health reasons, the Biden administration authorized the mass deportation of Haitians migrants and asylum seekers https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34786-haiti-flash-joe-biden-orders-the-deportation-of-thousands-of-illegal-haitian-migrants.html



So far, Washington has repatriated several thousand Haitian migrants from a camp in Del Rio, Texas, to Haiti https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35062-haiti-migration-500-foreign-children-deported-to-haiti.html



The group of experts who focus on racism and xenophobia have written an "allegation letter" to Washington protesting the government's actions, according to a press briefing, which has yet to be released.



"In expediting the collective expulsion of Haitian migrants, the United States is subjecting a group of predominantly Black migrants to impermissible risks of refoulement (forced returns) and human rights abuse without any individualised evaluation," said the experts, estimating that these actions were in violation of international refugee and human rights laws" adding "States cannot label all migrants of a certain nationality per se threats to national security, and all migrants, no matter their nationality, race or migration status, must be guaranteed the protections called for under international law."



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Explosive situation in Haiti

Samuel Madistin describes the current situation in Haiti as "explosive", considering the unforeseeable consequences including the fall of Prime Minister a.i. Ariel Henry.



Martissant : Car bullet riddled, 3 dead

On Sunday October 24, in the Martissant area, armed and masked individuals opened fire on a private vehicle containing 5 people. 3 passengers were killed, the other 2 managed to escape. After their crime, the bandits stripped the victims and took away anything of value in the vehicle.



Assassination of the President : towards the transfer of suspect #1

Monday, Claude Jopeph, the Minister of Foreign Affairs exchanged with his counterpart Kamina J Smith of Jamaica concerning the arrest of the former Colombian military officer Mario Palacios Palacios, main suspect in the assassination of President Jovenel Moise https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-35054-haiti-flash-a-key-suspect-in-the-assassination-of-jovenel-moise-arrested.html actively wanted https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34218-haiti-flash-wanted-notice-for-a-very-dangerous-colombian-mercenary.html "We discussed the mechanisms relating to his transfer to Haiti to be at the disposal of justice" specified Chancellor Joseph



See also :

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34199-haiti-assassination-of-the-president-names-of-the-20-members-of-the-commando-arrested-5-others-still-on-the-run.html

https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-34162-haiti-flash-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-by-mercenaries-official-updated-7am-+-video.html



The Haitian National Committee of ICOM indignanted

The Haitian national committee of the International Council of Museums (ICOM - Haiti) expresses its indignation at the acts of vandalism perpetrated in cultural places in the country. The committee denounces the attacks against the religious as well as places of devotion including sacred voodoo spaces in Bel-Air, Martissant and Noailles. It calls on state authorities to respect its commitments regarding the protection of cultural heritage and cultural diversity.



SPNH-17 : Lifting of legal measures

Me Bernard St-Vil, Dean of the Court of First Instance of Port-au-Prince, lifted the orders to bring, search notice and ban on departure against the Police officers of the National Police Union of Haiti (SPNH-17).



76th anniversary of the UN

"24 Oct 1945 - 24 Oct 2021. Happy 76th Birthday to the UN. Haiti, being a founding member of this World Organization, wishes it to become more of a tool for the preservation of peace and sustainable development for a better world" Haitian Ambassador to Washington Bocchit Edmond.



HL/ HaitiLibre


















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Police and fire crews work the scene of an Oct. 22 crash in Baroda Township that left Wayne Hamilton, 66, of Buchanan, dead; and Jeremy Ott, 39, of Berrien Springs, severely injured.
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The silver lining on the cloud of the coronavirus pandemic is that it helped bring
Havre Assistant Superintendent Brad Moore poses for a photograph in the Robins School Administration Building. Moore, who was superintendent of Standford school district in 2020 and is in his first year in Havre, was selected as this year's Montana Superintendent of the Year.

Havre Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Brad Moore has been recognized as Montana's 2021-2022 Superintendent of the Year and will go on to be considered for national superintendent of the year in February of next year.

Moore said he found out about receiving this award at last Thursday's Montana Conference of Educational Leadership, and he's overwhelmed and proud to have received this recognition from his peers.

"For one of the few times in my career, I was pretty speechless," he said.

Moore only recently took his position as Havre's assistant superintendent, but has 16 years of experience as a superintendent in the state and said he has no intention of stoping any time soon.

Over those 16 years, he said, he's worked with great teachers, boards and communities throughout Montana and working with those people is part of what makes his job great.

"That's why I'm still at it and it's still very rewarding," he said.

Moore said he's been adjusting to Havre well so far.

He said due to the size of the district the learning curve has been a bit steep, but it has also afforded him more of a chance to focus his efforts on the traditional roles of a superintendent.

He said he mostly has worked in Class C districts and it wasn't uncommon for him to fill roles outside the traditional duties of a superintendent, having been everything from a long-term substitute teacher to a school boiler oeprator.

Moore said this is actually fairly common for superintendents in smaller school districts, but the size of the staff at Havre Public Schools has allowed him to focus more on the traditional roles of a superintendent, and it's been nice not having to be the jack-of-all-trades.

He said having that many people to bounce ideas off of and work with has also been great.

Moore said he'll be honored to represent Montana at the National Conference on Education in Nashville, Tennessee, early next year where he will be considered for national superintendent of the year.
From Montana State University-Northern Foundation

Montana State University-Northern announced Monday that it is celebrating a new $50,000 endowment, a gift from the estate of the late Ethel A. (McIntyre) Hess.

Per the familys wishes, the funds will be called the Ethel A. McIntyre Memorial Endowment and Scholarship supporting scholarships specifically for students at MSU-Northern majoring in education.

Education is one of the cornerstones of Northern, Chancellor Greg Kegel said. We are grateful for this generous gift from Ethel Hess and we know it will have an impact on our current and future students studying to become teachers.

The purpose of the gift aligns with the alums passion for teaching. Ethel A. McIntyre graduated from Northern in 1945 with a major in education. Originally from Oilmont, Montana, she married George Hess, who was in the service and stationed in Montana, a few years after graduation, and she went on to teach elementary education in Montana, South Dakota and California, until becoming a realtor in the East San Francisco Bay area.

After their retirement, she and her husband moved to Idaho to be near family.

While at Northern, she was active in various committees and contributed to the NoMoCo, the schools newspaper. In 1995, she was invited to attend Northerns Golden Graduations  50th Reunion  and while she couldnt attend, Ethel Hess wrote to the Alumni Association, I spent two of the happiest years of my life on campus.

The world definitely needs more great educators, and we are thankful that Ethels kind gift that will give in perpetuity to support generations of teachers, Montana State University-Northern Foundation Executive Director Shantel Cronk said.

People who would like to give a tax-deductible gift to Northern can contact the foundation office at 406-265-3711 or email [email protected]
FFA members prepare for hands-on learning at Montanas land-grant university

From Montana FFA

BOZEMAN  Montana FFA will be returning to Montana State University Nov.11-13 for the 10th Annual Montana FFA Ag Expo, sponsored by Montana John Deere Dealers: C&B Operations, Frontline Ag Solutions, and RDO Equipment Co.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the Montana FFA Foundation visited communities across the state to deliver experiential learning through small, competitive events as part of the Ag Expo. They ventured into 12 local communities to provide in-person contests while holding others online.

A year ago, like the rest of the world, we were completely rewriting the rule book and trying to do something we have never done before, Montana FFA Program and Events Coordinator Saralyn Standley said. But that is what FFA does: adapt and overcome. We are thrilled to be back in Bozeman at Montana State University with new contests and experiences for students.

All activities will be back on MSUs campus in Bozeman and will be held in-person. This year will be unique with three new contests and the first-ever Equipment Operators Seminar and Driving Contest.

We are incredibly thankful for the support of our John Deere Dealers for continuously going above and beyond to serve our students through this event for the past decade, Montana FFA Executive Director Gwynn Simeniuk said,

With 25 competitive events and 1,600 FFA members attending, Montana FFA is searching for 500 volunteers throughout these in-person, hands-on activities. People interested in volunteering at Montana FFA Ag Expo can visit https://montanaffa.org/agexpo online and learn more about how to sign up to volunteer.

Volunteering isnt the only way to stay involved in Montana FFAs largest conference. With more than 1,500 students, it also is the perfect opportunity for people to get their organization involved. Montana FFA Ag Expos Career Fair is a great tool to market a business, especially for organizations looking to hire or recruit FFA members. Colleges, universities, training programs and other organizations benefit as FFA members are all approaching graduation and want to further their education, enter the workforce, or look for their next leadership opportunity.

The Montana FFA Foundation supports 100 FFA chapters across the state of Montana, representing over 5,000 members. The Montana FFA Foundations mission is to cultivate partnerships, promote awareness and secure resources to enhance Agricultural Education and the Montana FFA Association.
The Arab Day newspaper held a lengthy dialogue with the co-chair of the KCK, Jamil Bayik, on Turkey's attacks on the Guerrilla forces since April 23rd, the role of the PDK in these attacks and the PDK's relations with Kurdistan Workers Party PKK with Democratic Peoples Party, HDP and AANES.

PDK is an accomplice to Turkey

Speaking to the newspaper, Jamil Bayik, pointed out that it was the KDP intelligence that provided information to the MIT for launching Turkish UAVs attacks against Guerrilla Forces.

He added: By virtue of the complicity and turned a blind eye of KDP, Turkish intelligence agency MIT has succeeded in recruiting some agents, those who are providing MIT with information. So, in this way our fighters are being martyred, considering these attacks are a result of the relationship between KDP with Turkey, saying such these attacks did not happen without collaborating KDP with MIT.

Turkey has not made any progress

On the Turkish state's claims about the collapse of the Kurdistan Workers Party, PKK, Jamil Bayik, told the newspaper: "Since 2017, the Minister of the Interior of the fascist coalition between the AKP and the Nationalist Movement Party, no one will mention the name of the PKK next year. Meaning he'll eradicate the party. All the governments that have ruled the country for decades say the same. The Turkish army has been attacking for 6 months. Our fighters are valiantly resisting, except for some hills near the Turkish border, the Turkish army has not made any progress. "

Use of chemical weapons

The co-chair of the Kurdistan Communities Union, KCK, confirmed that when Turkey was unable to resist the Guerrilla, it used chemical weapons and toxic gases, and noted that dozens of Guerrilla fighters had martyred by these weapons.

Bayik added: "Thus, the Turkish army is trying to undermine the resistance and keep the AKP government and the Nationalist Movement Party exist."

Jamil Bayik confirmed that Erdogan had given orders that all types of weapons could be used (against our fighters). The Turkish occupation army was using such weapons, convinced that there was no position on the part of the United States and Europe, which kept PKK on the list of terrorist organizations.

Jamil Bayik pointed out that "the Turkish state's war of genocide against the Kurd is dirty and psychological. Now this war is going up even further, work is being done to dismantle society and undermine the will of our base through drugs, prostitution and recruitment. On the other hand, statements continue to be made that "we have killed a specific number, and specific number remained." We used to move with thousands of fighters in the Kurdistan Mountains, because of the coordination attacks between UAVs and warplanes, we also changed our doctrine of war... Now we move in small units. "

Bayik explained that "our war is not just a military war; we do not claim to defeat political will in Turkey through military struggle alone. With the combined influence of the political, social, military, cultural and diplomatic struggle, the policy of genocide of Kurds in the Turkish state will be destroyed; The goal of free Kurdistan and democratic Turkey or "democratic Middle East" will be achieved.

Responding to the newspaper's question about the relationship between the PKK and the People's Democratic Party, Jamil Bayik said: "these parties are political parties founded after the uprisings that erupted as a result of the evolution of the struggle of our fighters since the early 1990s, relying on the people who carried out these uprisings, the political aims of these parties include the freedom of the Kurdish people and the democratization of Turkey. In this regard, despite the difference in style, the PKK and their political objectives are not far from each other. "

He noted Any political movement in Turkey that did not oppose the PKK and fought for the freedom of the Kurdish people was linked to the PKK. He added: "Those who want a solution to the Kurdish problem in Turkey are also accused of supporting the PKK, not to mention that the parties, political circles, intellectuals, writers and artists who want to democratize Turkey are accused of supporting the PKK. They (the accusers) believe that democratization will be in the interest of the Kurds.

It's normal for the AANES to have relationships with any authority that doesn't reject the Kurd.

He evaluates the relationship between AANES and Democratic Union Party, PYD, and Moscow, saying "Democratic Union Party (PYD) is a party that has adopted leader Abdullah Ocalan's philosophy and ideological line. He has already been founded on 20 years of the leader's work in Syria, Lebanon and Rojava. No one can ask any party why it's adopting this ideology. As for a Kurdish party, it can never ask why you defend Abdullah Ocalan's ideas. Today, if Abdullah Ocalan's ideas are influential among the Arab people and Turkish peoples, they will undoubtedly have a greater impact on the Kurd. Many socialist, democratic, women's and feminists movements in the world today take much of the thought of leader Abdullah Ocalan. "

The co-chair of the Kurdistan Communities Union, KCK, Jamil Bayik, considered its normal for the AANES to establish relations with any political authority that did not attack the Kurds or reject the Kurdish people. As nothing could be more normal than having relations with Russia. He added: "We know that both the Democratic Union Party PYD, and AANES have ties to Russia. There may be criticism of Russia, but we do not regard the accusations and offensive language you spoke as correct. "

Bayik added: "We have no membership relationship with the Democratic Union Party PYD, and AANES. However, since the Democratic Union Party is predominantly a Kurdish movement, there are Kurds in AANES, we have a normal convergence. On the other hand, many Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) commanders have been in the PKK before. When the Rojava Revolution broke out, they wanted to fight a political and military conflict in Rojava and Syria. We considered it normal. That's the extent of our relationships. Otherwise, we are not in a position to determine what they should be doing. "

Jamil Bayik referred to their relationship with Russia, and said: "Our relations with Russia have sometimes been indirect and at other times direct, it varies according to Russia's relations with Turkey, the Kurdish problem affects the entire Middle East. From this point of view, it may be possible for us to have relations with every power that has to do with the Middle East, or sometimes even face it. We have no negative approach to Russia or any other country. However, there are states that have a negative attitude towards us because of their relationship with Turkey. That's why we have problems with the United States and some European countries. "

'Our relations with Syria have a historical basis and we have relations with the Palestinian and Arab people.

Touching up to the newspaper about the PKK's relationship with Syria, the co-chair of KCK, said: "The PKK's relationship with Syria has a historical basis. We also have relations with the Palestinian people and the Arab people that we cannot forget. Our relationship with Hafez Assad and his family was close, we cannot be anti - Syrian or anti - Assad. We have already established our relations on the basis of the general interest of the Kurd and the Arab Kurdish Brotherhood. Now we want to be a party to such a relationship. Although Bashar al - Assad's administration has taken a cold and negative stance towards us because of what happened in Rojava, we have not taken a similar approach. We tried to understand them. We want them to understand us, too. We never broke up with Damascus. If they did not want that. We have always appreciated the friendship between leader Abdullah Ocalan and the Assad family. Damascus cannot say anything negative about us, and if it does, it would be an unfair and subjective assessment. "

'The right solution is reconciliation between the AANES and the Damascus Government.'

Jamil Bayik pointed out that they want the AANES to solve its problems with Damascus Government. He said: "because of the right solution is reconciliation between the AANES and the Damascus Government."

Bayik considered that "Syria cannot be Syria before 2011. They also accepted this. The fact that they say they're thinking about a decentralized system that opens the door to reconciliation with the independent administration. They also said there would be an education by Kurdish language. If there is mutual goodwill and flexibility, Damascus Government and the AANES will agree on a solution. That would be good for the Kurds. "

Bayik asserted that the party that did not want a solution between Damascus Government and Kurds was Turkey; It fears that this solution will destabilize the genocide regime in Turkey. That's why they attack the areas where the Kurds live. That's the only reason they attacked.

They heard that the AANES and Damascus Government held occasional talks. He encouraged them to talk and said: "Damascus Government and the AANE must abandon prejudice. Syria could get stronger with the Kurds. The Kurds will also acquire their basic rights in Syria, solve their problems and become one of the main forces in Syria. The Syrian regime also knows that if Rojava and NE, Syria fell into the hands of ISIS and mercenaries, Aleppo and Damascus would fall. The struggle of Kurds, Arabs and Assyrians to protect Rojava and NE, Syria against "ISIS" and gangs has also ensured the resistance of Damascus Government. It is known that the Kurds living in Aleppo also protected Aleppo by their brave resistance. "

PKD is working against us in all its international relations'

In response to a question about the American presence in Hewler City, Bayik stressed that the establishment of military base belongs to United States in the area under the control of the PDK could have a negative impact; Because the PDK participates in Turkey's offensive by besieging many areas of the Guerrilla fighters, it creates obstacles for them to fight effectively against the Turkish army, the United States is a NATO force, as is the Turkish army. So the KDP is using the presence of the American base in its region as leverage on the PKK. "We know very well that the PDK works against the PKK in all its international relations."

He asserted that the PDK, through propaganda that there was a relationship between the PKK or Shengal Resistance Units with the Popular Mobilization Forces, PMF, had tried to encourage the United States and some forces to carry out an anti-PKK and Shengal Resistance Units. But this propaganda has nothing to do with reality.

Jamil Bayik confirmed that during the ISIS/ Daesh attack, Guerrilla's forces headed to these areas to protect Kirkuk, Hewler, Makhmur and even Dahok. He said: In fact, our fighters prevented ISIS control of Hewler and Kirkuk.

In conclusion, the co-chair of the KCK, Jamil Bayik, told the Arab Day newspaper: "Our historical resistance in the past six months has clearly demonstrated our existence and strength. In February, the Turkish army defeated the day after the landing in Gare area. Erdogan personally admitted defeat in the process, when he said, "We failed."

T/S

ANHA
Tammi Bingham and Lisa Shockley, from left, have joined Families & Literacy as the operations coordinator and ESL coordinator, respectively.
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Fresh lockdowns in China as local Covid-19 infections spread to 11 provinces

Authorities in northern China are reimposing lockdowns and other emergency measures to curb the spread of coronavirus, with health officials warning of a worsening outbreak after the country recorded more than 100 cases across 11 provinces over the last week.

Since October 17, there have been multiple scattered local outbreaks in China, and theyre expanding rapidly, Mi Feng, a spokesman at the National Health Commission (NHC), said at a news conference Sunday. There is an increasing risk that the outbreak will spread even further.

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The rapid spread comes despite about 75% of Chinas population  or more than a billion people  being fully vaccinated, according to Mi.

The caseload of Chinas latest outbreak pales in comparison with those of some other countries, including Singapore and the United Kingdom. But the scope of its spread has worried the Chinese government, which insists on a strict zero-Covid policy to stamp out infections.

The outbreak was first detected on October 16 among a tour group of fully vaccinated senior citizens from Shanghai who traveled in several northern regions.

Amid a cascade of crises, Haitis fuel shortage could be the worst

An eerie silence lingers over Hospital Universitaire de la Paix in the Delmas neighborhood of Port-au-Prince.

Footsteps echo through empty hallways. The normal beeps and whirs of hospital equipment are absent. The organized chaos of a city emergency room is replaced by empty chairs strung with caution tape.

The stillness is pierced only by the occasional cry of a child, about two years old, lying on her belly in a crib in the hospitals pediatric unit. She is one of the only patients currently admitted in what is usually one of Haitis largest, busiest hospitals.

The vast majority of those who show up to the front door are being turned away.

The hospital, said Rachelle, cannot accept patients because it simply cannot provide them care.

Hospital Universitaire de la Paix runs primarily on generators, which in turn run on gasoline.

 From wire reports
A&M-Commerce will hold its annual Veterans Vigil event for the 31st time next month. The ceremonial vigil flame will be lit on campus and burn continuously until it is extinguished at the closing ceremonies.
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Now Open

26 October 2021

IHG Hotels & Resorts, one of the world's leading hotel companies, has signed a franchised agreement with Borealis Hotel Group to open Holiday Inn Express Rome - Airport. Planned to open in 2023, the 224-room hotel will add a simple and smart option for travellers on the go by providing the perfect place to rest, relax and recharge, whether for business or leisure. The project will be developed in Parco Leonardo by Fonte (Leonardo Caltagirone Group), one of Italy's largest developers, and will showcase the fresh and contemporary style of the brand's Next Generation design, a first for the Holiday Inn Express brand in Italy.

This agreement builds growth momentum for IHG Hotels & Resorts in Italy and follows the recent signings and openings of airport locations for the Holiday Inn Express brand across Europe.

Holiday Inn Express Rome - Airport brings a new and refreshed offering to visitors; whether travelling for business or leisure. Created with guest comforts in mind, the Next Generation design rooms offer more where it matters most - free Wi-Fi, powerful showers, comfortable beds and added extras for a great night's sleep. All Holiday Inn Express hotels also offer an Express Start breakfast included as standard.

The location of the hotel offers convenient access to Fiumicino Rome International Airport, which is currently undergoing a multi-billon development. Situated in the Parco Leonardo shopping and business centre with a dedicated metro-train stop, the hotel will be perfectly situated to connect locals and guests alike to the heart of the inner city in just 20 minutes. Various retail outlets, restaurants and bars are near the hotel, creating a truly convenient experience for guests travelling to and from Italy.

Holiday Inn Express aims to enable real, human connections for our guests by providing a simple, smart travel experience. For owners, the brand offers the ability to drive higher returns by delivering exceptional stays and leveraging IHG's powerful systems, including IHG Rewards, one of the world's largest hotel loyalty programmes.
Now Open

26 October 2021

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) announced today the debut of Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, the latest property from the modern lifestyle hotel brand, Hyatt Centric. The 264-room hotel attracts guests who are looking to explore the best of what Denver has to offer. In the heart of downtown, the destination-centric hotel debuts a new seasonally inspired restaurant, Apple Blossom, helmed by beloved local restaurateurs Paul C. Reilly and Aileen V. Reilly. Located at 1776 Champa Street, Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver is conveniently positioned near the city's top destinations including the Colorado Convention Center, Denver Center for the Performing Arts, Coors Field, Ball Arena, Union Station, and the bustling Larimer Square.

Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a vibrant, colorful mural by local artist Megan Walker in the hotel's driveway, blending themes of Denver's urban life, Red Rock Amphitheatre's music culture and Colorado's renowned nature landscape into one vivid picture. Upon entering the hotel, a welcoming, spacious lobby adorned with energizing colors and glowing natural lighting offers the ideal gathering space for reconnecting, collaborating, planning, and unwinding. Locals and travelers alike are treated to music curated by local artist, Eric "Benny" Bloom of Grammy Award winning Lettuce, as they explore the hotel.

In true Denver fashion, the beloved owners of Denver's Beast + Bottle and Coperta debut Apple Blossom, a chef-driven concept celebrating the best of America's seasons with a focus on the agricultural bounty of local and regional ranchers, farmers and purveyors. Apple Blossoms' signature dishes include Cowtown Beef Plate (a nod to Denver's Stock Show heritage), Whole Grilled Rainbow Trout, Chef Fox's Sweet Moon Pancakes at brunch, Apple Turnover with Buttermilk Ice Cream and Local Honey and more. Paying homage to sister restaurant Coperta, Apple Blossom offers an extensive house-made pasta program using Heritage Colorado grains. The beverage menu includes an all-American wine list, craft cocktails and ciders, with a tap system pouring select wine varietals and beer. The restaurant, located just off the hotel's lobby, seats 68 guests with a 20-seat bar and lounge area and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Apple Blossom team also oversees room service, catering and banquets for the hotel.

The hotel's spacious rooftop terrace boasts cityscape views, plush seating and outdoor fireplaces where guests can embrace Denver's countless days of sunshine while enjoying small plates and drinks curated by Apple Blossom. With sliding-style doors, the space flows beautifully into a pre-function area where 2,530 square feet of flexible meeting space offers an upscale venue for groups of every size with unparalleled natural light. The penthouse level also plays home to the 975 square foot hospitality suite complete with a dedicated living area, spacious high-end dining table for eight, and a private rooftop terrace with mountain and city views. To complete the presidential floor experience, a 24-hour modern fitness center is lined with floor-to-ceiling windows and features Peloton bikes looking onto the city.

Each Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver guestroom offers thoughtful, modern urban decor to reflect the personality and style of the city in which it resides. Guests can enjoy walk-in showers and an in-room work area, and those who opt for a high-floor space are treated to dramatic views. Guestrooms are completed with thoughtful high-end finishes including keyless entry and check-in, Drybar Buttercup hair dryers in every room, Hyatt Centric robes and BeeKind bath amenities. Additional amenities include a thoughtfully furnished lobby with areas for guests to work, meet, eat and lounge, fresh coffee services; lobby market for grab-and-go items, and valet options.

To make a reservation at Hyatt Centric Downtown Denver, visit hyattcentricdowntowndenver.com or call 303-529-2340.

Guided by its purpose of care, Hyatt's multi-layered Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment further enhances its operational guidance and resources around colleague and guest safety and peace of mind. More information on Hyatt's commitment can be found here: hyatt.com/care-and-cleanliness.
Appointment

26 October 2021

TPG Hotels and Resorts - a leading hospitality brand with an impressive portfolio of over 60 hotel properties from coast to coast - is pleased to announce the appointment of seasoned hospitality expert Nicholas Squire as General Manager of all-season resort Mill Falls at the Lake in Meredith, New Hampshire. In his new role, Squire will oversee all resort operations at Mill Falls at the Lake.

Squire brings over 20 years of hospitality experience to his new role. Throughout the course of his career, Squire helped lead in the day-to-day operations, revenue management, and sales & marketing programs at multiple hotels and clubs throughout New England. Prior to joining the TPG portfolio at Mill Falls at the Lake, Squire served as Lodging Director at Hermitage Club in West Dover, VT, where he was responsible for running six properties, and oversaw rapid expansion of the lodging portfolio. Squire also worked at another private ski club, The Stratton Mountain Club in Vermont, and has numerous years of experience with luxury inns that include The White Barn Inn in Kennebunkport ME, Windham Hill Inn in Townshend VT, & Gidleigh Park in the UK - all part of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux collection, and more recently as the General Manager of Four Columns Inn in Newfane, VT.
Appointment

26 October 2021

The Balfour Hotel, which recently opened on Miami Beach, is proud to announce the appointment of Steven Acosta to executive chef. In this role, Acosta is responsible for managing the hotel's food and beverage team, implementing new menus at the hotel's three-meal restaurant and providing exceptional culinary experience for hotel guests, travelers and South Florida locals. Acosta assumes this position immediately and has already stepped into the role of overseeing all aspects of the restaurant's culinary operations. This winter, Acosta will spearhead the launch of a new restaurant concept at The Balfour Hotel and create all menus.

After graduating from the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Miami, Acosta took on executive sous chef positions at distinguished restaurants throughout South Florida, such as Vix's Restaurant at Hotel Victor and the Cascada Grill at the Turnberry Isle Resort. In 2008, chef Acosta worked with Todd English to open da Campo Osteria as the restaurant's executive sous chef. He then brought his expertise to the W Hotel South Beach to the former Solea Restaurant and KNR Food Concepts in 2009. Upon Todd English's departure from da Campo Osteria in 2012, Acosta returned to the team to lead the kitchen as the executive chef.

At da Campo Osteria, Acosta fell in love with the simplicity of Italian dishes, where the emphasis on exceptional ingredients combined with proper technique allows them to shine. Some of his favorite entrees included a classic spaghetti with a jumbo meatball and the braised veal that was reminiscent of his grandmother's recipe for oxtail.

His professional journey continued in 2014 at the Kimpton EPIC Hotel and its seafood-centric eatery, Area 31, as the executive sous chef leading all culinary operations on the premises. From 2015 to 2018, he took the helm as the executive chef at the Fisher Island Club, preparing gourmet meals for affluent clientele in the South Beach area. Prior to joining the Balfour team in 2021, Acosta established his own culinary consulting business in 2018.

Acosta grew up in a half-Costa Rican, half-Cuban family and credits his grandmother for inspiring his dedication to his life in the kitchen. He has fond memories of preparing Arroz con Pollo with his mother and making Costa Rican Vinagreta with his grandmother. His passion for cooking was ignited after being taught how to turn produce from a local flea market into delicious, home-cooked meals for his family.

As the esteemed executive chef for The Balfour Hotel, Acosta seeks to promote a sense of camaraderie among his team members, creating a culture of positive energy, accountability and passion in the kitchen.
Press Release

26 October 2021

BETHESDA, MD  RLJ Lodging Trust (the Company) (NYSE: RLJ) today announced that it has acquired the fee simple interest in the recently constructed 205-room AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Downtown (the Hotel) for a purchase price of $89.0 million, or approximately $434,000 per key. The purpose-built hotel opened in 2018 and is located within the mixed-use Ink Block development in Downtown Boston. Upon stabilization the Hotel is expected to generate 7.5% to 8.0% NOI yield. The Company funded the acquisition with existing cash on its balance sheet.

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We are pleased to expand our footprint in Boston Downtown by acquiring this recently-built asset in the heart of Bostons fast-growing, life sciences and technology core, commented Leslie D. Hale, President and Chief Executive Officer. We are confident that the addition of this Hotel will enhance our portfolios growth profile throughout this cycle and fits our investment thesis of buying premium-branded hotels within growth markets. This off-market acquisition also demonstrates our teams ability to source attractive opportunities at discounts to both replacement cost and pre-COVID pricing. Our strong balance sheet positions us extremely well to continue to pursue additional external growth opportunities.

The AC Hotel Boston Downtown is located within the newly developed Ink Block hub, a vibrant mixed-use development nestled in Bostons South End neighborhood. The Ink Block development transformed the site of the former Boston Herald headquarters. As the only hotel in the four-phase development, the property is well-positioned to benefit from the significant growth of office and life science laboratory space in the immediate area. As of the second quarter of 2021, approximately 4 million square feet (SF) of office space and 1.7 million SF of laboratory space was under development within close proximity to the property. The Hotel is also well-positioned to benefit from its proximity to two of the citys top hospitals, Tufts Medical Center and Boston Medical Center. The Ink Block development is adjacent to the fast-developing Seaport District, which is home to a diverse base of corporate demand generators including Amazon, General Electric, Gillette, Reebok, PwC, Roche, Fidelity, AstraZeneca, and Vertex.

Boston is expected to be one of the highest lodging demand growth markets in the country and is poised to benefit from the growth of life sciences, healthcare, technology, finance, education, and government sectors, as well as tourism and conventions. In 2019, Boston achieved the 5th highest Revenue per available room (RevPAR) of the Top 25 lodging markets in the United States. Additionally, Boston benefits from significant inbound domestic and international travel, with Bostons Logan International Airport experiencing record-breaking volume of 42.5 million passengers in 2019. Anchored by two large convention centers, Boston is a top destination for group events and also benefits from leisure demand associated with major sporting events.

The AC Hotels by Marriott lifestyle brand features modern, purposefully designed spaces and guestrooms that attract both business and leisure guests. The AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Downtown offers sleek furnishings, curated artwork, and intuitive technology. Hotel amenities include the AC Lounge bar, AC Kitchen, AC Store, state-of-the art fitness center, approximately 2,500 SF of flexible and customizable meeting space, outdoor patios, on-site parking, as well as car charging stations.

With the acquisition of the AC Hotel Boston Downtown, the Company now owns three hotels in the Boston market and is expanding its overall brand collection to include lifestyle brands.
Press Release

26 October 2021

Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts and IntercityHotel are brands to be trusted. Both have now emerged as top-ranked brands in a customer confidence survey conducted by the prestigious business magazine WirtschaftsWoche in conjunction with the marketing research institute ServiceValue. More than half a million customers were questioned in a bid to find out the brands and companies in which people have most faith. Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts achieved the highest degree of customer confidence in the Hotels  Premium category, and IntercityHotel was awarded the self-same quality accolade in the Hotels  Midscale section of the survey.

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Our constant aim is to make guests feel at home when they visit our hotels on their travels, said Marcus Bernhardt, CEO of Deutsche Hospitality. First of all, the fact that customers place their full trust in us represents a great compliment to our colleagues at the hotels, who work tirelessly every single day to offer guests the best service. Secondly, such an award motivates us to strive together to deliver our utmost performance across all Deutsche Hospitality brands at all times.

This is the eighth year in a row that the Cologne-based consultancy and analysis firm ServiceValue has carried out a confidence rankings survey for WirtschaftsWoche. This time round, 554,844 customers were asked to indicate the amount of trust they held in various brands, companies, and services. A total of 1,823 companies from 139 sectors were evaluated.

About Deutsche Hospitality

Vision, passion and cosmopolitanism. Deutsche Hospitality delivers the perfect guest experience. Tradition and an eye for the future come together in an inimitable portfolio of eight brands operating across more than 160 hotels globally. Celebrating luxurious simplicity.: Steigenberger Icons are extraordinary luxury hotels which combine historical uniqueness and modern concepts. The Steigenberger Porsche Design Hotels brand is generating innovative impetuses in the Luxury Lifestyle Segment. Steigenberger Hotels & Resorts represent the epitome of upscale hospitality on three continents. Jaz in the Citys Lifestyle Hotels dictate the rhythm in the Upscale Sector. House of Beats unites a passion for the hotel business with the fascination of lifestyle, fashion and music. IntercityHotel is located at the very hub of any destination and offers a true home of comfort and mobility in the Midscale Segment. MAXX by Deutsche Hospitality is a charismatic conversion brand which is also positioned in the midscale area of the market. Zleep Hotels provide a smart marriage of design and functionality in the Economy Segment. All of these brands are unified under H-Rewards, Deutsche Hospitalitys loyalty program which yields benefits from the first booking onwards. The vision is clear. In conjunction with its shareholder Huazhu, Deutsche Hospitality aims to advance to become one of Europes leading hotel companies.
Press Release

26 October 2021

Earlier this year, Airbnb.org committed to provide temporary housing to 20,000 Afghan refugees worldwide. As thousands of Afghans continue to resettle in communities around the world, Airbnb.org announced today it is partnering with Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) to support efforts across a national network of 34 resettlement agencies.

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Airbnb.org will provide funds to help support some of the 40,000 Afghan refugees the Canadian government has committed to welcome over the coming months, by offering free housing to resettlement agencies across the country through its partnership with CCIS. Founded in 1981, CCIS is one of the leading organizations providing settlement and integration services to immigrants and refugees in Canada.

It is always heartwarming to see companies step up and contribute to our national Afghan refugee settlement efforts. Thanks to Airbnb.orgs generous initiative, Afghan refugees arriving in Canada in the next few months will benefit from free temporary housing as they adjust to their new lives and integrate into their communities in Canada, said The Honourable Marco E. L. Mendicino, P.C., M.P., Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

Canadians have a long history of welcoming refugees from around the world. Airbnb.org is proud to build on this tradition by partnering with Calgary Catholic Immigration Society, civil society actors across the country, and generous hosts to help welcome Afghan refugees, said Jennifer Bond, Airbnb.org Board Member, Founder and Managing Director of the University of Ottawa Refugee Hub and Chair of the Global Refugee Sponsorship Initiative (GRSI).

We are grateful for Airbnb.orgs global leadership in this moment of crisis, which is providing invaluable support to our organization as we prepare to serve tens of thousands of Afghan refugees in the months ahead. Through this partnership, we will be able to meet one of the most urgent needs of arriving individuals and families and focus our staff on helping our clients build their new lives, said Fariborz Birjandian, Chief Executive Officer at CCIS.

Over the coming weeks and months, Airbnb.org will work with CCIS and Hosts on Airbnb to connect arriving Afghan newcomers across the country to temporary housing. Since August, Airbnb.org has worked with partners to place more than 2,000 Afghan refugees into temporary housing in communities where they will resettle.

In the past four years, Airbnb.org and Airbnb have connected approximately 25,000 refugees around the world to temporary housing. Airbnb and Airbnb.org have been working with Hosts across Canada to open their doors to refugees since 2017. Earlier this year, Airbnb.org announced the creation of the $25 million Refugee Fund, to further expand Airbnb.orgs support of refugees and asylum seekers worldwide.

Anyone interested in opening up their home to support arriving refugees in Canada can visit Airbnb.org/refugees to learn more.
Four new insurers will enter the Texas market this year to sell Affordable Care Act policies, the most since 2016 and another sign that the often-attacked universal health care law has gained acceptance by both consumers and insurers.

With open enrollment beginning Nov. 1, analysts expect premiums to remain about the same as last year, in part because of increased competition. Fourteen insurers now sell polices through federal ACA exchanges to an estimated 1.4 million Texans.

The four new companies include two, UnitedHealthcare and Aetna, that are re-entering the market after leaving it a several years ago, when the success of the law seemed in doubt and premiums and costs fluctuated significantly. Their return, along with the debuts of Moda Health Plan, an Oregon insurer, and Bright Healthcare, a Minnesota company, illustrate the vitality of the ACA in Texas  despite efforts by the states Republican leadership to undermine it, analysts said.

They see Texas as a potential growth market, which is why well be seeing competition, said Ken Janda, a former health insurance executive who heads Wild Blue Health Solutions, a consulting firm.

Each year, the federal Health Insurance Marketplace holds an open enrollment period during which Americans, typically those who are not covered by employer plans, can buy or switch health insurance. Many also are eligible for subsidies based on their incomes.

The Affordable Care Act, passed by a Democratic Congress along partisan lines under President Barack Obama, had a rocky start as insurers had difficulty assessing risks and costs of a new pool of customers  many with health problems that insurers might have excluded in the past. Premiums swung up and down. Seven insurers left the Texas exchange at some point after 2014, when the marketplace first opened.

Insurers hadnt been in a market before where you couldnt turn down sick people, so all of their pricing models were off, said Stacey Pogue, a senior policy analyst at Every Texan, an Austin think tank. A lot of those earlier guesses were just wrong, and a lot of those big brand names left.

On HoustonChronicle.com: 70,000 Cigna members to lose in-network access at CHI St. Luke's at the end of October

But as insurers gained experience, premiums stabilized and the market proved it work, the law came under attack from Republicans in Congress and the courts. When Republicans regained control of Congress under President Donald Trump they tried but failed to repeal the law.

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton sued to overturn the law, but the Supreme Court threw out Paxtons lawsuit earlier this year. It was the third time the court has upheld the law.

Trump used his executive powers to undermine the law, including cutting back the advertising budget for enrollment, scaling back funding for community groups who help with signups, and cutting the 45-day enrollment period in half.

The Biden administration restored open enrollment to its original length.

Back again

Insurers that leave the ACA market must wait five years before they can return. Aetna, a subsidiary of CVS Health is reentering the Texas market just as the required waiting period has ended. LaMonte Thomas, south central market president for Aetna, said Texas presented an opportunity because the state has the largest uninsured population in the country and the pandemic may be pushing more people to get insurance.

If you think about especially in Texas, the number of folks that are without access to health care, we thought we had the right value to bring to the marketplace, Thomas said. And this is the right time to come back, and provide folks with access to high quality and affordable care.

UnitedHealthcare did not respond to questions about why they decided to reenter the Texas marketplace.

Shara McClure, senior vice president at Blue Cross Blue Shield, said she anticipates increased competition in the years to come as more insurers enter and gain confidence in the ACA marketplace. In turn, the competition will challenge insurers to offer better plans to win or hold onto customers.

We need to be cognizant of keeping our premiums competitive or were going to see membership losses, McClure said. That's part of what's keeping health care affordable, and is challenging companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield to keep offering new plans.

For instance, Blue Cross Blue Shield introduced a product to the ACA marketplace in 2020 called My Blue Health in Harris and Dallas counties. The plan offers $0 copays at Sanitas Medical Centers, a multinational health care group and partner of Blue Cross Blue Shield. The insurer is expanding that plan into the Austin and San Antonio areas in 2022.

Consumers can expect to see low rates from the new entrants that are trying to grow membership, analysts said. Janda, however, cautioned consumers from buying health insurance based solely on the lowest premiums. The plans might not offer the coverage that people want or need, and, after enticing buyers with low rates one year, may raise them noticeably the next.

I always warn people, It's OK to grab this great low rate for one year, but you don't know what's going to happen to that plan next year, Janda said. So, you need to be either prepared to change again next year, or maybe you dont want to always choose the cheapest rate.

becca.carballo@chron.com
Women and people of color are significantly underrepresented in senior leadership roles at more than 100 Houston-area companies, according to a new report from the Greater Houston Partnership.

We are admittedly not where we want to be, and these results tell us that we have much work to do, said Bob Harvey, president and CEO of the Greater Houston Partnership. However, now we have the knowledge needed to take decisive action. This assessment provides the starting point from which we can move forward.

Released Tuesday, the report assessed diversity and inclusion at 120 area companies that together employ about 215,000 people in the region.

It found roughly two-thirds of those in senior management roles were white, despite white people accounting for only about 35 percent of the area population and 40 percent of the workforce at the companies examined by the report.

Hispanic people have fared the worst, accounting for 38 percent of the area population but only 10 percent of senior management positions.

CREDIT BLM: Houston's Black neighborhoods saw a surge of new businesses

The report also outlined significant gaps in gender roles, with men accounting for about 65 percent of senior management or board positions despite making up half of the area population.

Disparities were even more pronounced among private-sector companies, the report found.

NEWSLETTERS Join the conversation with HouWeAre We want to foster conversation and highlight the intersection of race, identity and culture in one of America's most diverse cities. Sign up for the HouWeAre newsletter here.

The report is part of the Partnerships new One Houston Together program that was established last year as a means of attracting and developing diverse talent in Houston, the nations most diverse city.

To that end, the Partnership has also developed an interactive database that offers insight into diversity in regional employment and other metrics.

Todays business and organization leaders know they need to be doing more when it comes to equity and inclusion, however theyve lacked a roadmap, said Ruth Simmons, president of Prairie View A&M University and co-chair of the Partnerships Racial Equity Committee. This assessment tells us that our current hiring and promotion practices are insufficient in addressing the gap in talent diversity, but it also provides us with the tools needed to carry this forward in a constructive way."

robert.downen@chron.com
Saudi Aramco said oil-output capacity across the world is dropping quickly and companies need to invest more in production.

Its a huge concern, Chief Executive Officer Amin Nasser said in an interview in Riyadh, Saudi Arabias capital. The spare capacity is shrinking.

His comments come with crude prices having soared 70% this year to around $85 a barrel. Many major consumers, including the U.S., Japan and India, have called on producers to pump more.

The supply deficit in oil markets could worsen in 2022 if the coronavirus pandemic eases and more people fly, he said.

Declining rapidly

If theres aviation pick up next year, that spare capacity will be depleted, he said. Its now getting to a situation where theres limited supply -- whatever is left thats spare is declining rapidly.

Several oil and gas traders have criticized governments and climate activists for calling on companies to stop investing in fossil fuels, saying that will cause shortages of energy in the coming decade.

Aramco, the worlds biggest oil company, is investing billions of dollars to raise its daily capacity to 13 million barrels from 12 million. It expects to complete the project by 2027.

Many Wall Street banks and OPEC+ members doubt there will be supply shortages next year. JPMorgan Chase & Co. has said oil markets will shift to a supply surplus of 1 million barrels by March from a deficit of around 1.5 million barrels now.

Saudi Arabias energy minister told Bloomberg on Saturday there could be a huge uplift in crude inventories in 2022.

We still have Covid, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman said, justifying OPEC+s refusal to ease deep supply cuts it began last year any faster. We still have jet fuel limited in terms of growth. If you do more now, youre accelerating the problem.

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its partners are increasing daily output by 400,000 barrels each month. The 23-nation group, led by Saudi Arabia and Russia, next meets on Nov. 4 to decide whether to change strategy.
Exxon Mobil Corp. is weighing salary increases as it tries to halt employee attrition across its business divisions after sweeping job and benefit cuts.

Chief Executive Officer Darren Woods told employees at a town hall-style meeting that they should be encouraged by the ongoing salary-review process, according to a recording of the event. The policies were putting in place will get back to where people can begin to see a different path going forward than the path we came out of in 2020, he said at the Oct. 20 gathering in suburban Houston.

Woods didnt give any indication as to the size of any pay increase or which employees would be eligible. The program will impact salaries, promotions and retirement benefits, spokesman Casey Norton said in an email on Monday. Exxon disclosed plans last year to cut 14,000 workers, or 15% of staff, by the end of 2022. As of Dec. 31, the company employed 72,000 worldwide.

"We anticipate 2022 will follow our typical annual salary and promotion process, with industry benchmarking informing decisions about our 2022 salary program in advance of a January 1 effective date," Norton wrote. We are recruiting, hiring and backfilling roles.

Until last year, Exxon was one of Americas most secure and highest-paying employers, offering high base pay, generous benefits, opportunities for global travel and strong job security. But amid 2020s pandemic-driven demand slump and the worst oil-market crash in history, the company imposed its first major job cuts in decades, curbed travel, suspended matching contributions to employee retirement plans, and altered its long-standing performance-ranking system.

Amazon.com Inc., Microsoft Corp. and other Big Tech companies are hiring former Exxon staffers, with financial services, consulting and pharmaceutical firms picking up others.

At the town hall, one employee expressed concerns to Woods during the question-and-answer session.

Everyone in the room today and calling in knows that were having some major attrition issues, the employee said. While this can be kind of glazed over with the decision to have layoffs last year and the economy as a whole, really every business line is having attrition issues.

She then asked Woods what the company could have done to mitigate the situation. A moderator said it was a very popular question.

In response, Woods acknowledged the company has more attrition today and that its not something that we obviously want, according to the recording. However, Exxon is not unique in losing workers after the pandemic and is actually doing better than its industry peers, he said.

Im not suggesting that your concerns around what are people thinking and whats driving them to leave the company isnt important, Woods said. I would just make sure we put it in the proper context that its something that were seeing coming out of the pandemic, and something that were seeing across all the companies.

In prepared remarks posted on Exxons website, Woods was upbeat about the oil explorers prospects because of rising prices for crude, natural gas and petrochemicals, rebounding economic growth and the opportunity presented by the energy transition. Investors appear to agree, with the stock up more than 50 percent this year. Exxon is scheduled to report third-quarter earnings on Oct. 29 and analysts expect net income to be the highest in seven years, according to estimates compiled by Bloomberg.

Whether or not employees will see much of the windfall remains to be seen, but the signs are positive, according to Woods. Exxon restored matching contributions to employee 401(k) plans this month.

Were going through the salary process today, Woods told employees. As we get into Jan. 1, when raises come out, thats going to be, I think, people will be encouraged by that, given what we had to do in 2020.
As the city braces for Game One of the World Series this evening, Houston's youngest fans are already sporting their Astros spirit.

At Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, babies in the neonatal intensive care unit are wearing their finest Astros swag.
ATLANTA (AP)  Georgia state government has settled a lawsuit filed by three former Insurance Department employees who said they were fired by ex-Insurance Commissioner Jim Beck because they had leaked information to a television reporter.

The state is paying $870,000 to Loranda Allen, Candice Sprague, Sherry Mowell and their attorneys, WAGA-TV reported.

Jurors convicted Beck in July on 37 counts of wire fraud, mail fraud, money laundering and tax fraud. The charges stemmed from Becks scheme to channel more than $2.5 million from the Georgia Underwriting Association through a series of companies to his own bank accounts. Beck managed the state-chartered private insurer of last resort for years before the Republican was elected insurance commissioner.

A judge earlier this month sentenced Beck to more than seven years in prison and ordered him to pay $2.6 million in restitution.

Federal officials began investigating Beck as he was elected statewide in 2018 as Georgias chief insurance regulator, indicting him shortly after the Republican took office in 2019. The investigation was capped by an eight-day trial that ended with jurors convicting Beck after fewer than two hours of deliberation.

The lawsuit stemmed not from the charges Beck was indicted on, but a story from Fox affiliate WAGA-TV about a 2017 arson that burned down a Carrollton rental property that Beck owned. The television station obtained a copy of Becks insurance application that showed two weeks before the fire, Beck nearly doubled his insurance coverage, from $95,000 to $186,000. Beck said he increased the insured value because of renovations. No one was ever charged with arson.

The television station also reported that Beck was managing the Georgia Underwriting Association at the same time that he had a full-time state job as a victim-witness advocate for a district attorneys office.

The lawsuit alleged that Beck told another department employee that he blamed the women for providing the information for the reporting by Fox News. and said he was going to clean the place up and get rid of the three women after taking office in 2019.

People shouldnt be damaged financially or otherwise, for just doing their jobs. And, doing them well, said Ed Tarver, a lawyer for the women.

The three women issued a joint statement saying: We hate that this convicted felon destroyed so many careers when he came into office. That is sad for all Georgians.

Lawyers for Beck did not respond to requests for comment.

Beck was automatically removed from office on conviction. He had been suspended after his indictment, but kept drawing a $195,000 yearly salary.
ASHEBORO, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina prison inmate who authorities say escaped from a work detail by driving off in a dump truck has been recaptured, a sheriff's office said.

The Randolph County Sheriffs Office said it received two calls on Saturday regarding a suspicious person walking along a local road. When deputies reached the scene, they confirmed the man was Richard Alexander Mundy, 53. He was taken into custody and turned over the N.C. Department of Corrections.
Weve all heard the fable about how to boil a frog. You put it in a pot of tepid water, and slowly turn the heat up. By the time it realizes the danger, its already half-cooked.

Texas voters should be able to empathize with the little hoppers, at this point.

Our state enjoyed a smooth and successful election in 2020, according to the Secretary of States office. Yet weve subsequently faced a series of attacks on our voting rights, courtesy of the states Republican leaders  some of them seemingly at the behest of their leader, former President Donald J. Trump.

Trump, who lost his bid for re-election to Democrat Joe Biden, has yet to accept the fact of his defeat  or any responsibility for the violent insurrection at the U.S. Capitol in its aftermath.

The insurrection took place on November 3, Election Day, Trump said in a statement last Thursday. January 6 was the Protest!

That very same day, we learned that Texas will be getting a new Secretary of State whose professional history includes helping out with Trumps unsuccessful efforts to get the election overturned by the Supreme Court.

On HoustonChronicle.com: New Texas elections chief helped Trump try to overturn 2020 results

Gov. Greg Abbott announced the appointment of John Scott, a Fort Worth attorney, in a statement on Thursday commending the latters decades of experience in election law and litigation.

John understands the importance of protecting the integrity of our elections and building the Texas brand on an international stage, Abbott said. I am confident that John's experience and expertise will enhance his oversight and leadership over the biggest and most thorough election audit in the country.

What Abbott didnt say is that Scotts experience includes a stint as a lawyer for Trump on a suit seeking to block the certification of the election results in Pennsylvania, one of the key states Biden won. Scott, along with state Sen. Bryan Hughes, signed on to the suit Nov. 13, only to ask to be removed on Nov. 16.

Its unclear why the two thought partisan lawyers from Texas would have standing to interfere with an election conducted in the commonwealth of Pennsylvania in the first place. And neither has subsequently expressed any regret about lending their support to the Big Lie, even as Trump continues to press his baseless grievances on the subject.

Hughes, R-Mineola, went on to author Senate Bill 1, the controversial election integrity measure that passed the Legislature during a special session this summer. (Hughes also authored Senate Bill 8, the de facto abortion ban that passed during the regular session).

Scott has now become the guy tasked with overseeing our voter rolls and elections, as well as the election audit Abbott referenced in his statement. The biggest and most thorough election audit in the country, according to the governor, who announced his audit hours after Trump called on him to pass legislation to that effect.

There will be no independent assessment of whether Scott is up to those tasks until the Legislature meets again. When that happens, the Texas Senate will have a chance to confirm his appointment, or to decline to do so. But they likely will not be asked to weigh in here until the regular session, in 2023, after the 2022 midterms. The third special session ended this week, and Abbott has said that he doesnt see a need for a fourth.

The good news, such as it is, is that Texas has a secretary of state again. The office has been vacant since May, when Ruth Hughs resigned after failing to be confirmed by the Texas Senate. And Scott does have extensive professional experience, which includes a stint as deputy attorney general when Abbott held that office. Perhaps we should be thankful for that, considering the context. The governor could have appointed former Trump campaign lawyer Sidney Powell  or the Kraken she kept threatening to unleash  to this important office.

Still, it obviously doesnt inspire confidence that Scotts resume is distinguished by his failed advocacy for a defeated presidential candidate. That should be disqualifying, in this context.

And isnt building confidence in our elections the supposed purpose of all these restrictions and audits and election integrity measures Republicans keep pushing? After all, leaders including Abbott have acknowledged that voter fraud is vanishingly rare in Texas and, as noted, our state had a smooth and secure election in 2020.

What they havent acknowledged is that Trumps behavior, since Bidens election, has been delusional at best. Self-defeating, too, if we assume Trump is considering another run for president in 2024: his prospects of winning such a race hinge on his ability to turn out the voters who elected him in 2016  a task which would be challenging enough even if all of his supporters had full confidence in our electoral system.

And, more importantly, Trumps continued lies about the 2020 election are dangerous. Many Republicans were appalled by the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol; many were, similarly, unpersuaded by Trumps ongoing assertions that the election was stolen from him. But many were not. As it stands, millions of Americans  not a majority of Americans, but also not a small, inconsequential, or irredeemable group  believe that Biden is, in some sense, not a legitimate president. Thats a combustible dynamic.

Republicans such as Abbott should be trying to soothe tensions, rather than inflame them. They should choose to stand up to baseless grievances, rather than reinforce them. And yet the governor  faced with a choice between doing the right thing and doing whatever he considers to be politically expedient  has opted for the latter path, yet again, in appointing a onetime Trump lawyer to oversee state elections.

As Texas voters, we may not be fully cooked yet. But the waters getting hot.

erica.grieder@chron.com
A bicyclist died Monday night in a crash in southeast Houston, according to Houston Police.

A vehicle hit the bicyclist before 8 p.m. in the 5500 block of Sunbeam Street, said Lt. Larry Crowson of Houston Police.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Houston man arrested in connection with Jan. 6 Capitol riot

The bicyclist was dead at the scene, Crowson said. Authorities didnt see preliminary signs of intoxication for the driver, who stayed there, according to Crowson.

The street, which has one lane going in each direction, has poor lighting, according to Crowson.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Woman killed after abandoned 18-wheeler strikes mobile home near northwest Houston

Crowson said police would be contacting the district attorneys office after the investigation is completed.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
After a 20-month absence brought on by the pandemic, our monthly look at Houston Chronicle photos from 30 years ago is back.

Lets get to it. Heres what was making news in Oct. 1991.

A shocking abduction and murder

Carlos Antonio Rios/Houston Chronicle

In what was one of the most shocking crimes to strike the city in the 1990s, Harris County Sheriff's Deputy Roxyann Allee was abducted in a parking lot at Greenspoint Mall, where she had gone shopping for a dress.

Her charred vehicle, photographed here on Oct. 1, was found a short time later. Her body was later found in a nearby field.

Her killer or killers have never been found.

Chevy Caprice joins patrols

Paul S. Howell/Houston Chronicle

Remember seeing these Chevrolet Caprice police cars on the street?

More than 200 such patrol cars were starting to fan out across the city. The cars were getting good reviews, more or less, from officers, but there were concerns over the reliability of its braking system and other maintenance issues.

Where the '90s moms shopped

John Everett/Houston Chronicle

Closeout retailer Pic 'N' Save became MacFrugal's here 30 years ago this month.

Whatever happened to MacFrugal's? It was acquired by Big Lots years later.

Art-loving crowds head to Montrose

More than 280 artists descended on Montrose for that year's Westheimer Art Festival, not to be confused with the Westheimer Street Festival.

The event is now known as the Bayou City Art Festival.
Charges have been filed against the mother of three children rescued from a west Harris County apartment, where authorities also found the long-dead body of a fourth child inside a bedroom closet.

Gloria Williams, 35 was arrested Tuesday afternoon on charges of injury to a child by omission and tampering with evidence, in this case a human corpse. Her boyfriend, Brian Coulter, has been charged with murder in the death of the child found in the apartment.

UPDATE: Abandoned kids witnessed brother's death, watched body decompose for over a year

Police identified the child as Kendrick Lee. He was 8 at the time of his death -- now ruled homicidal violence with multiple blunt force injuries -- in 2020, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said.

Police believe Coulter hit and kicked Kendrick last November. Additional details surrounding the death were not available.

The discovery on Sunday dominated local and national headlines in the days to follow and prompted authorities to wonder how long the children were left alone and why neighbors at the CityParc II at West Oaks Apartments complex never called law enforcement.

The Harris County Sheriffs Office never received a report of foul odors or other suspicious activity from the unit at 3530 Green Crest Drive, spokesman Senior Deputy Thomas Gilliland said.

Investigators who went inside the third-floor apartment described a disturbing scene. The unit had no power and the childs remains were in a bedroom. The eldest child also told authorities his parents hadn't lived with them for several months.

A woman, Linda Smith, learned, along with the rest of Houston, that authorities rescued the three children. She had no idea until Tuesday that her 7-year-old grandson was among them.

Her voice hushed with worry as she asked about another child named Kendrick. His name was not among the three now in Child Protective Services custody.

Smith last saw the children in 2016 when she forced Williams out of her south Houston home after a dispute. The mother took the boys with her.

I feel like I failed them, Smith said.

She saw the occasional photo of them on Facebook. Williams messaged her in September about a sick relative and appeared then to be overwhelmed, Smith continued. She assumes the kids were a handful.

She could have brought them to my house  she knows I would have taken them in, she said.

The children, ages 7, 10 and 15, relied on the kindness of neighbors for food. The three boys were malnourished when the eldest called 911 to report his siblings death, which he said happened about a year earlier.

Authorities attributed the manner of death to homicide.

Three of the children were enrolled in Alief ISD until May 2020, as the pandemic continued spreading.

District officials in 2019 started a truancy investigation into the mother for the youngest childs lack of attendance at Holmquist Elementary School. The case was dismissed as school came to an end, with prosecutors citing COVID-19 as the reason. At one point, the mother started cooperating with the truancy case, officials said.

Prosecutors dismissed thousands of truancy cases early in the pandemic at the request of Houston-area school districts, officials said. Holding over the cases for the following year was not an option, according to records obtained by the Chronicle.

Craig Eichhorn, spokesman for Alief ISD, said the children did not return for the following school year. School personnel attempted an unsuccessful home visit in September 2020 in an effort to return the kids to classes.

The family did have a history with CPS, but no active investigation was underway when the children were discovered Sunday, said Melissa Lanford, media specialist with Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

Child safety advocates warn that abuse during the pandemic likely increased and became more difficult to spot. Prior recessions have contributed to increases, studies show.

Sophie Phillips, chief executive officer of TexProtects, a nonprofit that aims to help children who suffer from abuse and neglect, said the fact that CPS had been involved with the children previously indicates that the agency was aware that the family needed access to resources.

Even if the claims were not substantiated, that still means that the level of risk is there and needs to be addressed, she said.

Its the ultimate tragedy, Phillips said. The number one predictive measure for risk of a fatality are prior reports of abuse and neglect on a family.

Reports of child abuse and neglect dropped during the start of the pandemic, CPS data shows. During April 2020, there were 8,000 fewer calls to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services than there were in April 2019. Online reporting, a tool primarily used by teachers, was down 56 percent compared with the same month the previous year.

Teachers and other social service professionals usually account for 20 to 25 percent of child abuse reports to the state.

With in-person classes canceled for most districts in the state during the early days of COVID, many cases likely went unreported, Phillips said.

School personnel are often the number one reporter of child abuse, said Phillips. Without eyes on those kids, we miss catching potentially harmful situations.

Behavioral health issues, substance abuse and domestic violence, which have all increased during the pandemic, are known to have a correlation with increased rates of child neglect and maltreatment, she added.

Alejandro Serrano contributed to this report.

nicole.hensley@chron.com
City Council this week will consider indefinitely delaying a proposal to hire an outside law firm to review the deal at the center of allegations the mayor tried to steer affordable housing funds to a specific developer.

The move is supported by several council members who say the city-directed probe is not needed because the Texas General Land Office and the Harris County district attorneys office already are reviewing the mayors since-withdrawn recommendation that the city give $15 million in affordable housing funds for a senior housing complex in Clear Lake known as Huntington at Bay Area.

The GLO, however, said last week it is not including the project in its review of Houstons Hurricane Harvey multifamily housing program.

The land offices review is confined only to deals that have been funded, a threshold the Huntington proposal never reached.

A GLO spokeswoman said the city had not submitted any documents regarding the Huntington project to the agency before it was withdrawn.

The city announced the selection of the Huntington project last month, prompting former city Housing and Community Development Department Director Tom McCasland to publicly accuse the Turner administration of arranging a charade of a competitive process to award affordable housing dollars to the Huntington project. Mayor Sylvester Turners former longtime law partner is a co-developer of the project, which both McCasland and the mayor said they were unaware of at the time.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Turner fires Houston housing director who accused him of 'charade' bid process to benefit developer

In selecting Huntington at Bay Area, the mayor rebuffed staff recommendations to use $16.2 million to help finance 362 affordable housing units; Huntington would use $15 million to help finance a project with 88 affordable units.

Turner has denied any wrongdoing. The mayor fired McCasland and ordered the city attorney to review the process by which Huntington was chosen. Two weeks after ordering the review, Turner announced he was withdrawing the project because it had become a distraction.

Following McCaslands allegations, the GLO launched a review of previous allocations by the city to ensure those projects underwent a proper competitive process, spokeswoman Brittany Eck said. The agency is expected to provide a draft report on its findings Wednesday. The city will have 30 days to respond before the land office sends the report to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, which provides the funds and has an inspector general arm for more formal investigations.

The scope of the district attorneys investigation is not known publicly, and that office is unlikely to lay out its findings unless it files criminal charges.

Still, several council members have said the $275,000 contract to hire Austin-based attorneys with Butler Snow LLP to look into the allegations surrounding Huntingtons selection is unnecessary given those investigations. City Attorney Arturo Michel already has approved up to $50,000 to engage the firm, which does not require council approval.

Votes to hire the firm have been delayed at council twice, and several council members are planning a procedural move Wednesday to extend that delay indefinitely. Others oppose the deal altogether.

I was just looking to refer it back to the administration until we had a report from the GLO or (district attorney), said Vice Mayor Pro Tem Martha Castex-Tatum, who represents District K. If something unusual comes up, there is always an opportunity to revisit it again.

District D Councilmember Carolyn Evans-Shabazz made a similar argument: I think we should find out what theyre going to come up with, if anything, before we pay additional money.

Mayor Pro Tem Dave Martin said he plans to introduce the motion to refer the contract back to the administration, a move that indefinitely delays a vote and typically is used to kill a proposal altogether.

The mayors office did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday on the plan to delay the vote. The office last week said the mayor would defer to council members on the contract.

At least two other council members  Tarsha Jackson and Letitia Plummer  said they plan to join Martin, Evans-Shabazz and Castex-Tatum in supporting the delay.

On HoustonChronicle.com: Will the city hire outside lawyers to investigate housing allegations? It's unclear

Council members Greg Travis and Michael Kubosh said they do not support hiring the attorneys at all, suggesting that review would not be sufficiently independent. Kubosh said he does not support a delay; he wants to vote Wednesday to spike the contract.

Its just the biggest farce Ive ever seen, Kubosh said of the internal investigation. This is wrong and its now coming to light. Ill be glad when an (independent) investigation is thoroughly finished.

Only two members  Tiffany Thomas and David Robinson  told the Chronicle they support hiring the outside counsel, and neither expressed outright opposition to holding off for now if other members choose to do so.

If the administration is calling it back or referring it back, Id like to know why, Robinson said.

The remaining members are undecided or did not respond to requests for comment.

Councilmember Amy Peck, who said she is undecided on the delay, raised concerns about the $275,000 cost of the contract, an argument echoed by several members who support the delay.

The citys contract would use the Property and Casualty Fund, a dedicated account for legal services to manage claims made against the city or determine legal exposure.

The citys housing department is using federal relief money to run a $450 million effort to build affordable multifamily housing in the city to replenish stock wiped out by Harvey. It has opened three Notices of Funding Availability to developers to let them know that money was available for affordable developments. The city has chosen dozens of projects to receive the monies, and they are at different stages in the development pipeline.

It was the third  and smallest  funding notice, issued earlier this year, that McCasland alleged Turner arranged as a charade with a predetermined outcome to give the money to the developers behind Huntington.

The selected projects in that latest round of funding have not yet been submitted to the GLO, which is why the Huntington deal is excluded from the agencys review.

The city files an affidavit when it submits projects to the GLO, swearing it has followed a competitive process to award the money. The GLO has requested back-up documentation proving that it did so in the earlier rounds.

As of Monday, Eck said, the city had not provided that information.

dylan.mcguinness@chron.com
A federal judge in Houston has ordered a limited and temporary halt to Magnolia ISDs grooming policy that requires boys to keep their hair short, while there is no such rule for girls in the district.

Chief U.S. District Judge Lee H. Rosenthal said students were being harmed by a policy and granted a reprieve to four long-haired students involved in a lawsuit over the mandate.

Rosenthals ruling comes just days after seven children, ages 7 to 17, sued the district asking to be removed from suspension and other disciplinary measures and be allowed to attend class, extracurricular activities and hang out with their peers.

In the suit, the ACLU of Texas, the ACLU Womens Rights Project and three major Houston law firms asked the court to permanently block a policy the plaintiffs consider unlawful, discriminatory and harmful.

The district has said its grooming policy complies with state law and is in line with community values.

Like hundreds of public school districts in Texas and across the country, MISDs rules for dress and grooming distinguish between male and female dress and grooming standards, a district spokesperson, Denise Meyers, said last week. Meyers did not respond to a request Monday for a comment on the ruling.

The judges emergency restraining order covers a small group of students she said were being harmed by the policy. Three are children who kept their hair long and ultimately stopped attending school in the district as a result of the policy. Rosenthal ordered the district to let them back to class.

The fourth, a nonbinary child who sometimes wears barrettes and clips in their locks, was allowed back in class under an exemption that was set to expire this week. For this student, the judge extended the exemption.

NEWSLETTERS Join the conversation with HouWeAre We want to foster conversation and highlight the intersection of race, identity and culture in one of America's most diverse cities. Sign up for the HouWeAre newsletter here.

HAIR LENGTH POLICY: 7 students sue Magnolia ISD in federal court over policy that bans long hair for boys

The judge said shed tackle at the next hearing what to do about three other plaintiffs who reluctantly cut their hair at the start of school in August but are growing it back.

The next hearing, on a preliminary injunction, is set for Nov. 10. If granted, such an order would last until the lawsuit is resolved, and it could potentially extend to more children.

Attorney Brian Klosterboer, from the ACLU of Texas, said he spoke with these students parents and they said the young plaintiffs were elated.

Theyre so happy to go back to school, Klosterboer said.

The nonbinary fifth-grader, who uses they and them pronouns, challenged the suspension after their story was featured in the Chronicle. The district then granted the student a temporary reprieve.

THE EDITORIAL BOARD: Hey Magnolia, let the boys grow their hair long

Danielle Miller, the mother of that student, said her family is thrilled their child will be able to attend classes, at least temporarily, without fear of punishment over how they express themselves.

No student should be discriminated against based on gender, and our local community has risen up to fight for the rights of our kids, Miller said. Its frustrating that Magnolia refuses to simply change this outdated policy and focus on education.

The family was planning a special treat Monday night to celebrate the federal judge ruling in their favor, Miller said.

They were planning to have ice cream for dinner.

gabrielle.banks@chron.com
Commercial space stations could be the next battleground for low-Earth orbit.

Two different space stations have been announced in the past week. Both are vying for a NASA contract that would provide development funds and, perhaps more importantly, could lead to the government becoming a customer or anchor tenant.

Jeff Bezos Blue Origin, partnering with Sierra Space and a host of other companies, announced the Orbital Reef space station on Monday. Webster-based Nanoracks and Lockheed Martin announced the Starlab space station last week.

COMMERCIAL STATIONS: What happens when NASA retires the International Space Station?

These announcements are occurring now to align with the International Astronautical Congress, a global space event happening this week in Dubai. Its an opportunity to speak with global customers and government agencies.

The companies are also trying to position themselves to get broader attention from NASA, the public and Congress.

Orbital Reef and Starlab are among roughly one dozen proposals vying for NASAs Commercial Low-Earth Orbit Destinations project. This two-phase project seeks to stimulate the development of commercial space stations and create a market where NASA is one of many customers.

NASA is currently evaluating proposals for the projects formulation and design phase, and the agency intends to make two to four awards totaling $300 million to $400 million before the end of this year. In phase two, NASA would purchase end-to-end services for its use of commercial space stations.

NASA is the anchor customer everyone needs, Greg Autry, a clinical professor of space leadership, policy and business for Arizona State University, said in an email. I believe that any commercial space station firms that dont get selected by NASA will fade away due to lack of investor support, with the possible exception of Orbital Reef because of Blue Origins deep pockets.

Bezos, who founded Blue Origin in 2000, was the worlds second richest man as of Monday. SpaceX founder and Tesla CEO Elon Musk was the richest, according to Bloomberg.

Neither project, Orbital Reef nor Starlab, gave a straightforward yes or no answer when asked if the space stations would be built even if they werent selected by NASA.

Our plan models long-term use by NASA, but also many other markets, said an Orbital Reef spokesperson. NASA recognizes that shifting its utilization off of (the International Space Station) is inevitable at some point, that the next generation of space station needs to be commercial and that the viability of a commercial station hinges on the growth of new markets.

MORE ON BLUE ORIGIN: How Jeff Bezos and Blue Origin changed the small West Texas town of Van Horn

Nanoracks believes the market will support multiple commercial space stations, Nanoracks said in an email. To foster initial development, the first path-finding space stations need NASAs public endorsement, which can be shown through initial funding as well as stated intentions to be a customer. NASAs endorsement is an important validation to raise private capital.

There arent yet enough customers in other parts of the market  tourism, manufacturing, research and development, servicing satellites in space, media and advertising  to run a private space station in the black. NASA and other government agencies will have to be the main customers for human-focused commercial space stations, said Casey Dreier, senior space policy adviser for the Planetary Society, a nonprofit that seeks to get more people engaged with space.

Dreier compared it to NASAs Commercial Crew program. NASA provided funding to help SpaceX and Boeing develop commercially owned and operated spacecraft. Boeing is still in development, but SpaceX is flying its Crew Dragon - and most of its seats have been filled by NASA astronauts or its partners at other space agencies.

It has a modest but growing secondary market in tourism, but the vast majority of income is from NASA, Dreier said in an email.

The Orbital Reef space station would be open for business after two launches in the middle of this decade. Baseline configuration, which requires four launches, would occur in the second half of this decade. The modules would be sent into space on Blue Origins New Glenn rocket, which has not yet flown.

The Starlab space station would launch in 2027. This station by Nanoracks, Voyager Space (which acquired Nanoracks in May) and Lockheed Martin will have usable space thats comparable to the International Space Station. But with its use of both sturdy metal and more compact inflatable components, Starlab could require just one launch to get into orbit.

Yet Starlab isnt the only space station being built by a Houston-area company. Through a different contract, Axiom Space was selected by NASA in January 2020 to develop a commercial module that will initially attach to the International Space Station. This first module is set to launch in 2024. Then the company will launch additional modules that can be added to that first module to provide areas for housing, research and manufacturing. When the International Space Station retires, the Axiom Station would detach and become its own space station.

AXIOM SPACE FOUNDER: 'What's your passion?' An entrepreneur's question leads to space enterprises

NASA has asked Congress for additional money to help spur commercial space station development. It requested $150 million for commercial low-Earth orbit development in each of fiscal years 2019, 2020 and 2021, but Congress only gave the agency $40 million, $15 million and $17 million, respectively.

For fiscal year 2022, NASA requested $101.1 million. The budget has not yet been finalized, but the Senate Appropriations Committee recently recommended funding the full request. The House Appropriations Committee, however, had recommended $45 million.

If the U.S. is serious about replacing the International Space Station with private space stations  the ISS is authorized through Sept. 30, 2024, and Congress is expected to extend that to 2030  then industry needs to start investing in these projects now, Dreier said.

The years fly by during complex development projects, he said. And no matter what policy mandates are made by Congress regarding the lifetime of the ISS, it is ultimately subject to physical wear and tear, hardware failures, and unplanned events that could degrade its functional lifetime. Human spaceflight projects take years to design, build and test, so it's good that we are seeing significant interest now.

andrea.leinfelder@chron.com

twitter.com/a_leinfelder
More than 1.3 million doses of the pediatric Pfizer COVID vaccine likely will head to Texas providers over the next few weeks, as federal health officials are expected to greenlight the shots for 5- to 11-year-olds within days.

The state has started pre-ordering the shots, which will start to ship as soon as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration grants emergency use authorization for the vaccine. An advisory panel will meet Tuesday on the matter, with full consideration following shortly after.

Advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which makes additional recommendations on who should get the vaccine, are scheduled to meet Nov. 2 and 3.

This new age group is a big factor just in helping us reduce the viral load across the state, said Imelda Garcia, the head of the states Expert Vaccine Allocation Panel.

The emergency use authorization would add about 2.9 million Texans to the vaccine eligibility pool and comes as childrens COVID cases and hospitalizations have surged during the delta wave. The pediatric vaccine, like its adult companion, requires two shots for full immunization, though it contains just a fraction of the dosage.

Pfizer said last week that its shots are more than 90 percent effective in children ages 5 to 11.

The 1.3 million doses likely headed to Texas are not differentiated by first and second doses. Depending on demand, providers can request additional doses in the weeks after the emergency use authorization is granted.

Just more than 1 million of those doses will be allocated directly to the states providers, including hospitals and pediatricians offices. Roughly 260,000 more will head to pharmacies, which have independent relationships with the federal government.

More than 800 COVID vaccine providers in 120 counties will receive the doses in three shipment waves. The first includes about 440,000 doses that will ship within one to five days after the emergency use authorization is issued; the other orders will follow close behind.

Garcia said the vaccines authorization will be another critical development in the fight to stop the spread of COVID-19. She plans to vaccinate her daughter.

Its not only for my daughters health and safety, but vaccinating her also protects our extended loved ones, she said.

The vaccine currently is available to Texans ages 12 and over. The Pfizer vaccine is the only one authorized for use in children under 18.

As of Monday, more than 15.3 million Texans have been vaccinated fully  nearly 64 percent of the states 12-and-over population.
Regarding Smith: Houston vs. the world is perfect for these Astros, (Oct. 23): I join Brian T. Smith in recognizing the Astros accomplishments, especially this year as we joyously await another World Series. Congratulations to all. But where was the mention of Michael Brantley? He of the .311 season and postseason batting averages, he of the quiet smile and most reliable bat. Hurrah for all the serious folks who go to work every day and complete their tasks at the highest levels without hoopla or fanfare. Thank you, Michael, for coming back to Houston. We are proud of you.

Carolyn Truesdell, Houston

Regarding Inside the Astros ALCS celebration, (Oct. 23): FOX and Madison Avenue cant be happy at the prospect of a Southern-flavored World Series (Astros vs. Braves). Much of the country might not know a lot about the players of these two teams, so tune-in would probably be down from past Series games. And more importantly, the ad and broadcast folks would much rather sell and air what could turn out to be higher-priced TV commercials in a West Coast vs. New England matchup. After all, ad prices (and therefore income) are based on potential viewership. I saytough!

Ted Shaw, Cypress

The error of two sides

Regarding Editorial: How Texas' 'CRT' bill is terrifying teachers and cheating kids, (Oct. 25): Southlakes Carrol ISDs seemingly amoral compass promulgated an opposing perspective policy concerning material about the Holocaust and other topics. State laws place children in mandated systems controlled by local school districts. In fulfilling that obligation, irresponsible adults found it essential to their notion of things to present balance to state institutionalized mass murder.

The Nuremberg Trials reset the world's moral compass, holding those responsible accountable. There was no excuse for moral equivalency then or now.

The Carroll ISD administrators mistaken instruction is a whole other level of outrageous given 76 years of information available since the camps were liberated. Surely, they knew the Holocaust was implemented to remove Jews from the face of the Earth. Yet mentioning it in the context of world history requires an opposing view?

Isnt learning history about not repeating past mistakes rather than an indoctrinated, whitewashed willful blindness to humanitys propensity to walk in the shadow of darkness? Compounding the matter, Texas has a long history of censoring textbooks to remove subjects which may make others feel bad about their history.

Evil walks among us in the guise of the respectable and official. It must not proliferate in any place or generation. Ignorance is never bliss.

Rev. Barry Abraham Zavah, Alpine
Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who seized power in Khartoum on Monday, seems to be under the impression that Donald Trump still lives in the White House and Benjamin Netanyahu on Balfour Street. The Sudanese general evidently is counting on the foreign-policy obsessions of the previous U.S. president and opportunism of the previous Israeli prime minister to let him get away with his coup. Its up to President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett to let him know hes wrong.

Former president Trump cared little for democracy anywhere, never mind in what he infamously described as sh**hole countries of Africa and the developing world. To the extent that he was at all interested in Sudan, it was as a signatory to the Abraham Accords intended to normalize relations with Israel, a late-term idee fixe he shared with Netanyahu.

After a pro-democracy movement ended the 30-year dictatorship of Omar al-Bashir two years ago, the Trump administration dragged its feet on taking Sudan off the U.S. State Departments list of terrorism sponsors, which had prevented the impoverished sub-Saharan nation from accessing vital aid and investment. Even when a transitional government led by the former United Nations economist Abdalla Hamdok pulled off a series of extraordinary social and political reforms, it received little credit from Washington.

But when Trump wanted more ballast for the Abraham Accords, he sent Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Khartoum with an unsubtle message: The terror-sponsor designation would stay until the Sudanese recognized Israel. The transitional government succumbed to the pressure, and most U.S. sanctions were duly withdrawn.

The lesson Gen. Burhan learned can easily be deduced from the fact that, no sooner had he taken over Monday, he committed himself to the international accords signed by the government he had overthrown. The clear message to Washington, and to Jerusalem: Sudan will stay in the Abraham Accords, dont worry.

Under previous management in both places, this reassurance might have been sufficient cause to look away from the developments in Khartoum. The onus is now on Biden and Bennett to demonstrate that the U.S. and Israel wont look kindly upon the generals power grab.

The bigger part of the burden lies with Biden, who has promised to distinguish himself from his predecessor by nurturing and protecting democracy around the world. Having already fallen short of those standards in Afghanistan, the U.S. president can hardly afford backsliding in Sudan.

Bennett made no extravagant promises about his foreign policy, but Sudan represents an opportunity to show that friendship with Israel is about more than simply signing accords. Siding with the Sudanese people at this hour would go some way toward overcoming widespread skepticism about the Abraham Accords among ordinary Arabs.

The two men should start by condemning the coup in much stronger terms than the deep alarm expressed by Jeffrey Feltman, Bidens special envoy to the Horn of Arica. Feltman had visited Khartoum over the weekend and met both Gen. Burhan and Hamdok; he apparently had no forewarning that one of his interlocutors would imprison the other in short order.

There are signs that the people-power movement that brought down Bashir is now regrouping to protest against Gen. Burhans takeover. Already, security forces in Khartoum have fired upon demonstrators, reportedly killing at least three. Biden and Bennett should give the protesters their full-throated backing, and make it clear to the Sudanese security forces that violence against peaceful demonstrators wont be tolerated.

The U.S. and Israel should also persuade the other countries that have influence in Sudan  its neighbor Egypt, and its key sources of financial assistance, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia  to press for the restoration of the transitional government, under Hamdok and other civilian leaders.

Biden has other levers he can pull. The U.S. is Sudans largest humanitarian donor, and State Department has said it will suspend $700 million in emergency aid pending a review of Mondays developments. The U.S. also can threaten economic sanctions and exercise its veto on assistance from the International Monetary Fund. But these measures risk penalizing the country for Gen. Burhans coup.

With coups, as with murder investigations, the first days after the event are crucial. By quickly demonstrating that they are cut from a different cloth from their predecessors, Biden and Bennett have the chance to end the crisis of democracy in Khartoum.

Bobby Ghosh is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. He writes on foreign affairs, with a special focus on the Middle East and Africa.
NASHVILLE  Into these perfect October afternoons, when light gleams on the red dogwood berries and the blue arrowwood berries and the purple beautyberries; on the last of the many-colored zinnias and the last of the yellow marigolds and the last of the white snakeroot flowers; on the shining hair of babies in strollers and the shining ponytails of young mothers and the tender, shining heads of old men walking dogs  into the midst of all this beauty, the kind of beauty that makes despair seem like only a figment of the midnight imagination, the monsters arrive.

They come in a deafening, surging swarm, blasting from lawn to lawn and filling the air with the stench of gasoline and death. I would call them mechanical locusts, descending upon every patch of gold in the neighborhood the way the grasshoppers of old would arrive, in numbers so great they darkened the sky, to lay bare a cornfield in minutes. But that comparison is unfair to locusts.

Grasshoppers belong here. Gasoline-powered leaf blowers are invaders, the most maddening of all the maddening, environment-destroying tools of the American lawn-care industry.

Nearly everything about how Americans care for their lawns is deadly. Pesticides prevent wildflower seeds from germinating and poison the insects that feed songbirds and other wildlife. Lawn mower blades, set too low, chop into bits the snakes and turtles and baby rabbits that cant get away in time. Mulch, piled too deep, smothers ground-nesting bees, and often the very plants that mulch is supposed to protect, as well.

But the gasoline-powered leaf blower exists in a category of environmental hell all its own, spewing pollutants  carbon monoxide, smog-forming nitrous oxides, carcinogenic hydrocarbons  into the atmosphere at a literally breathtaking rate.

This particular environmental catastrophe is not news. A 2011 study by Edmunds found that a two-stroke gasoline-powered leaf blower spewed out more pollution than a 6,200-pound Ford F-150 SVT Raptor pickup truck. Jason Kavanagh, the engineering editor at Edmunds at the time, noted that hydrocarbon emissions from a half-hour of yard work with the two-stroke leaf blower are about the same as a 3,900-mile drive from Texas to Alaska in a Raptor.

The two-stroke engine found in most consumer gas-powered leaf blowers is an outmoded technology. Unlike larger, heavier engines, a two-stroke engine combines oil and gas in a single chamber, which gives the machine more power while remaining light enough to carry. That design also means that it is very loud, and that as much as a third of the fuel is spewed into the air as unburned aerosol.

How loud? Some produce more than 100 decibels of low-frequency, wall-penetrating sound  or as much noise as a plane taking off  at levels that can cause tinnitus and hearing loss with long exposure, Monica Cardoza wrote for Audubon Magazine this year.

How much fuel? Gasoline-powered lawn-care machines  mowers, trimmers, leaf blowers, etc.  consume nearly 2.2 billion gallons of gas each year and are responsible for about 10 percent of all the mobile hydrocarbon emissions in this country. In his Oct. 2 newsletter, the writer James Fallows summarized the problem: Using a two-stroke engine is like heating your house with an open pit fire in the living room  and chopping down your trees to keep it going, and trying to whoosh away the fetid black smoke before your children are poisoned by it.

As Mr. Fallowss last point suggests, whats bad for the environment is bad for humans, too  most menacingly, of course, for the employees of landscape services, who are exposed to these dangers all day long.

The risks come not only from the noise and the chemical emissions that two-stroke engines produce, but also from the dust they stir up. That dust can contain pollen, mold, animal feces, heavy metals and chemicals from herbicides and pesticides, notes Sara Peach of Yale Climate Connections. All this adds up to increased risk of lung cancer, asthma, cardiovascular disease, premature birth and other life-threatening conditions.

This month, Gov. Gavin Newsom of California signed a new law making his the first state with plans to ban gas-powered lawn equipment along with other machines, like generators and pressure washers, that use gasoline-powered engines.

Only the Environmental Protection Agency can set emission standards. But California, owing to its unique climate and geography, which allow airborne pollutants to coalesce and linger, is the exception to this federal limitation. Other states can opt to follow Californias more stringent tailpipe emissions standards, as 12 states and the District of Columbia do. Thanks in part to those standards, the passenger vehicles on Californias roads and highways collectively produce less pollution than off-road machinery does. Think about that for a minute: Lawn-care equipment creates more pollution in California than cars do.

More than 100 cities across the country have already passed regulations to ban or restrict gas-powered leaf blowers. For people committed to their manicured lawns, the good news is that powerful electric and battery-operated leaf blowers now exist, and they are quieter and greener and healthier than gasoline-powered blowers. Their market share is also growing rapidly; electric equipment now represents roughly 44 percent of lawn-care machinery sales.

But the trouble with leaf blowers isnt only their pollution-spewing health consequences. Its also the damage they do to biodiversity. Fallen leaves provide protection for overwintering insects and the egg sacs of others. Leaf blowers, whether electric or gasoline-powered, dislodge the leaf litter that is so essential to insect life  the insect life that in turn is so essential to birds and other wildlife.

The ideal fertilizer and mulch cant be found in your local garden center. They are available at no cost in the form of a trees own leaves. The best thing to do with fallen leaves is to mulch them with a lawn mower if your lawn consists of entirely of unvariegated turf grass (which it should not, given that turf grass requires immense amounts of water and poison to maintain). Our yard is a mixture of grasses and clovers and wildflowers, so we can safely let our leaves lie. If a high wind carries them away, its hard not to wail, Wait! I was saving those!

And the leaves that fall across every inch of this wild half acre of suburbia are so much prettier than any unnaturally green lawn beaten into submission by stench-spewing machinery. All those golden sugar maple leaves hold onto the light, and for weeks it looks as though our whole yard is on fire, even in the rain. Who could be troubled by a blanket made of light? A blanket keeping all the little creatures safe from the cold?

Margaret Renkl writes for the New York Times about flora, fauna, politics and culture in the American South.
Gov. Greg Abbott is getting increasing pressure from the political right to call yet another special session of the Texas Legislature to stop private businesses from requiring employees to get vaccinated against COVID-19.

Over the weekend, the Texas Republican Party chairman Matt Rinaldi sent a letter to Abbott formally calling for another special session to address the issue. That came just days after Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, also a Republican, said Abbott should call another one to address other conservative priorities lawmakers never did pass.

The Texas Constitution allows only the governor to call a special session.

Abbott has no plans to call another special session at this point. Abbott spokeswoman Renae Eze ticked off a list of GOP accomplishments during the latest special session, including property tax relief proposals and the redistricting of the congressional and legislative districts in Texas.

Because of the Texas House and Senates efforts to get these priorities across the finish line, there is no need for another special session at this time, she said Monday.

Earlier this month, Abbott issued an executive order banning private businesses from having vaccine mandates in Texas. That came after the Biden administration announced in September that employers with 100 or more employees would be required to mandate vaccines.

But Republicans say private businesses are not following Abbotts order, and he needs to force the Legislature to come back and pass a law to prevent the mandates.

Rinaldi called Abbotts executive order a stop-gap to protect vulnerable Texans, but it alone is simply not enough.

We look forward to your swift and decisive action in defense of the citizens of Texas, and we look forward to a Fourth Special Session! Rinaldi said in his letter to Abbott, which was signed by dozens of other members of the state party.

Abbott put the issue on the agenda earlier this month for the Legislature to take up during its third special session. But that ended last week without lawmakers passing anything related to vaccine mandates.

The push for another special session comes as Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is getting attention in conservative media circles for calling a special session there to ban mandates. DeSantis has not said when that special session will be.

Some of Abbotts GOP primary opponents are seizing on DeSantis call to push Abbott to respond in kind. Former State Sen. Don Huffines, a Dallas Republican, lauded DeSantis for calling a special session and said Abbott should do the same.

Now is the time for him to prove that he means it, Huffines said about Abbotts opposition to vaccine mandates.

If Abbott were to call another special session, it would be the fourth of the year  tying the record for most special sessions in one year. Gov. Bill Clements called four special sessions in 1990.

Other governors have called four or more sessions but split them over two years.
A Texas House committee has initiated an investigation into Texas school districts to see if their libraries carry certain books on a range of subjects, from human sexuality to systemic racism.

The General Investigating Committee chair, Rep. Matt Krause, R-Fort Worth, wrote to the Texas Education Agency and a select group of superintendents, though its unclear which ones.

Krause, who is running in the Republican primary for Texas attorney general, declined a request for comment, saying its the panels policy not to talk about pending matters.

The committee may initiate inquiries concerning any matter the committee considers necessary for the information of the legislature or for the welfare and protection of state citizens, Krause wrote in the Oct. 25 letter, according to a copy obtained by Hearst Newspapers.

In accordance with the Committees jurisdiction and my authority as Chairman, I am initiating an inquiry into Texas school district content.

READ THE LETTER: Rep. Matt Krause launches investigation into school district libraries

BOOKS IN QUESTION: Addendum to Krause letter containing books in question

NEWSLETTERS Join the conversation with HouWeAre We want to foster conversation and highlight the intersection of race, identity and culture in one of America's most diverse cities. Sign up for the HouWeAre newsletter here.

The probe drew immediate criticism. Texas State Teachers Association President Ovidia Molina called it disturbing and (a) political overreach into the classroom.

This is an obvious attack on diversity and an attempt to score political points at the expense of our childrens education, Molina said in a statement. What will Rep. Krause propose next? Burning books he and a handful of parents find objectionable?

In his letter, Krause, a founding member of the hardline conservative House Freedom Caucus, described the impetus for the inquiry as a series of controversies at Texas independent school districts  Carroll, Spring Branch, Lake Travis, Leander and Katy  involving books that parents wanted pulled from shelves.

The letter did not mention House Bill 3979, the controversial bill Gov. Greg Abbott signed in June that limits what teachers can talk about when it comes to race and history in America and prohibits the teaching of critical race theory.

But Krause asked that the districts detail whether they have bought or carry any books on a 16-page list of more than 800 he provided, or any other books that address certain topics or meet certain criteria.

The topics were: human sexuality, sexually transmitted diseases, HIV or AIDS, sexually explicit images and graphic presentations of sexual behavior that is in violation of the law.

Krause also asked about books that contain material that might make students feel discomfort, guilt, anguish, or any other form of psychological distress because of their race or sex or convey that a student, by virtue of their race or sex, is inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously.

It is unclear how Krause compiled his list of titles. They encompassed topics ranging from racism in America, teen pregnancy, abortion, gender identity and human sexuality  including LGBT relationships. Many of the authors are people of color.

Some books on the list include: What is the Black Lives Matter Movement? by Hedreich Nichols, She/He/They/Them: Understanding Gender Identity by Rebecca Stanborough and A Kids Book About Racism by Jelani Memory.

Some are highly acclaimed, such as the NAACP Image Award for Nonfiction recipient, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, by Michelle Alexander, and at least two Pulitzer Prize winners, The Confessions of Nat Turner by William Styron and Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates.

The school districts have until Nov. 12 to respond to questions about how many copies of the books on the list they have, at which campuses and how much the books cost to acquire.

San Antonios two largest school districts, Northside and North East ISDs, confirmed they had received Krauses letter.

The requested information is, as you might imagine, quite extensive, Northsides spokesman Barry Perez said Wednesday, adding that the district has not had sufficient time to fully review the request nor have we begun to compile information.

The NEISD spokeswoman, Aubrey Chancellor, said, We will comply to the extent possible.

Incidents of censorship have been on the rise in Texas schools, especially as the Legislature has restricted education related to history and racism, said Texas Library Association Executive Director Shirley Robinson, whose group opposes any efforts to limit access to books.

Censorship in any form is not only a threat to individual knowledge and growth but to the foundation of our democracy, she said in an email interview. Limiting education does a tremendous disservice to Texas students and their communities, which need engaged and informed citizens that can address future challenges.

Robinson added that libraries select books to reflect the communities and families they serve.

Tinkering with that process because of media reports or social media outrage results in reactionary decisions that are not in the best interest of the community, she added.

RELATED: Katy ISD caved to pressure in returning books to library, petition organizer says

Earlier this month, Spring Branch ISD in the Houston area banned a childrens graphic novel that features a transgender character from all of its elementary school libraries after a parent filed a complaint about it.

Leander ISD in the Austin area has so far removed 13 books from high school book club lists that were deemed inappropriate or otherwise unfit for use, according to the Austin American-Statesman.

At Katy ISD, officials had withheld a book  New Kid by author Jerry Craft  and postponed a speaking engagement by Craft while it was under review. The book has since been reinstated, and the event was rescheduled.

Carroll ISD made headlines earlier this month when administrators gave teachers a rubric for deciding which books could remain in class libraries based on whether they offered multiple perspectives.

taylor.goldenstein@chron.com
The revised proposed new congressional districts for Illinois, centered on Hyde Park, showing (right to left) the 2nd, 1st and 7th districts
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Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High 46F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

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Pizza House owner Christina Bell-Randall, left, Community Events Director Suzy Helme, artist Amy Coon and Arthur De Bow, cultural district coordinator pose in front of Coon's 'Hello from North Adams' on the side of the Pizza House. PreviousNext

North Adams Celebrates New Downtown Murals



Valerie Carrigan gets ready to cut the ribbon as Mayor Thomas Bernard introduces her work, 'Emerging,' on Friday. NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The city officially unveiled its newest murals  "Emerging" on Holden Street and "Welcome to North Adams" on Center Street  on Friday with ribbon cuttings.

The two new "selfie" murals were funded through a Cultural District Initiative Grant from the Massachusetts Cultural Council.

Artists Valerie Carrigan and Amy Coon were selected from more than a dozen submissions for the project.

Sponsored by the Cultural Council of Northern Berkshire, the projects are intended to draw increased attention to downtown by adding to the city's mural collection. They're part of a marketing vision and designed to be interactive by creating expressive backgrounds for people to take selfies and pictures to share.

North Adams has a number of large-scale murals made possible through arts and civic organizations, including the "poppy" girls on the Mohawk Theater and the more recent mural featuring horticulturist Lue Gim Gong on the Ashland Street high rise.

Valerie Carrigan's monarch butterfly was completed a couple months ago on Holden Street next to an existing mural, "Gneiss."

"The fall colors in the Berkshires in the fall and the colors of Valerie's mural really pick up together nicely," said Mayor Thomas Bernard at Friday's event.

The mayor thanked the city's team including Suzy Helme, director of tourism and community events, and Arthur De Bow, the city's cultural district coordinator and co-chair of the North Berkshire council, the state council and the property owners who agreed to host the murals, Scarafoni & Associates and Pizza House owner Christina Bell-Randall.

He pointed out that Michael J. Bobbitt, executive director of the state Cultural Council, had been in Hancock earlier in the week to hear about what arts and cultural organizations were doing in the Berkshires.

"We know what happens in the Berkshires, is what happens in other parts of the state," the mayor said, but added that it happens with fewer resources and without the population of, say, Boston. "But what we have is heart and dedication and talent for days and this shows it here."

De Bow noted the ArtWeek in the Berkshires this past September had exhibited a range of artistic works and experiences. The statewide ArtWeek has been on "intermission" since the beginning of the pandemic, but the local cultural councils moved forward with a weeklong exploration last year and this.

"We have five cultural districts here in the Berkshires and we all talk with each other. And, you know, we though it's such a shame that that has going away," he said. "They came up with the idea, let's bring it back ourselves."

Thirty events were able to be held last year despite the restrictions imposed by COVID-19.

"This year, and we were hoping we get to 50, we had over 100," he said. "Many other towns in the Berkshires who don't have a cultural council also tagged in that event so we were very pleased. So many of the artists who used to Open Studios and workshops that we've talked to since it happened had tremendous success."

De Bow said the Mass Cultural Council was very interested in the effort and officials came out to Pittsfield to discuss it. "I think they're thinking that's something that could maybe be replicated going forward," he said.

The Northern Berkshire Cultural Council is one of only two regional councils in the state. It covers Adams, Cheshire, Clarksburg, Florida, Hancock, Lanesborough, New Ashford, North Adams, Savoy, Windsor and Williamstown, along with the Franklin County town of Monroe.

Over on Center Street, a second ribbon-cutting was held for Amy Coon's "Hello from North Adams," based on an old-style postcard featuring highlights such as the library, "Big Bling," Mount Greylock and the steeples, with the "North" part of the name inspired by the Sol Le Witt exhibit at Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art.

"I like this one the best," Bell-Randall said, adding that when it wears down in a few years maybe it could be redone or replaced by something new.
The former dry cleaners at 111 River St. is to be demolished and the site remediated.

Plans in Place for Demolition, Remediation of North Adams Dry Cleaners

NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The former Sun Cleaners at 111 River St. will be demolished and the less than quarter-acre property cleaned up.

The city took possession of the former dry cleaning shop in 2019 as part of a portfolio of properties transferred by the now-dissolved Housing Opportunities Inc.

The agreement was that the city would only take the property if any contamination could be removed at no cost to North Adams. That had been expected to come out of funds from Housing Opportunities also being transferred to the city but instead will come out of the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission's brownfields revolving loan fund.

The grant is about $220,000.

A number of borings had been done around the site and some contamination was found, largely to do with the dry cleaner that operated on the site from the late 1970s into the early 2000s.

"The two key things we found were that there is soil contamination there, it was high enough levels that we had a report to Mass DEP," said Todd Kirton, senior environmental scientist, with Tighe & Bond, at Monday's public hearing on the cleanup. "Most of all the soil contamination that we found is at shallow depth. It is not very deep and the groundwater is not significantly impacted which is, it really is a good thing."

The main contaminants are solvent-related, typical to dry cleaning operations, and some petroleum. The solvents are mainly found in the rear area of the 1,800 square foot building. There is no impact on neighboring properties or the Hoosic River.

"When I say it's not very deep, it's 5-6-7 feet deep at most that we've seen ... and groundwater is about 15 feet down at the site," Kirton said. "There's a need to remediate the site. To review, the project goal is to remediate it for future redevelopment."

Tighe & Bond, an engineering consultant firm in Westfield, is the city's licensed site professional firm and did the required Analysis of Brownfields Cleanup Alternatives, or ABCA.

In addition to doing borings and substrate analysis, it also did a hazardous building materials assessment on the 1880 one-story structure. The building is considered too far gone to save.

Kirton said there are three options  doing nothing, capping the contamination or doing a full remediation and demolition. The first and second options aren't viable, he explained, since something would have to be done if the parcel was to be used and capping is usually for large areas and where cost is an issue.

"The other thing about the contamination that we have at this site is that you don't really like to build on this, when there's chlorinated water, called chlorinated VOCs (volatile organic compounds), because they have a chance to impact indoor air into a building if you built over them," he said. "So, the site really lends itself to and the funding available for us to do demolition, get access to the contaminated soils, remove them for off-site disposal and backfill to grade, and try to achieve cleanup to a level where there's no restrictions on the property."

The solvent-contaminated soil will have to be removed to taken off-site, probably to a site in New Hampshire, which Kirton said would be one of the costlier aspects of the remediation.

Michael Nuvallie of the city's Office of Community Development, said the goal is to put the lot to some use  by selling it to a neighbor, using it as a pocket park or parking lot, or considering it in conjunction with several other nearby properties the city owns.

These plans will be informed by feedback from the community.

One of the grant requirements was to have a community relations plan and the partner chosen for that is Northern Berkshire Community Coalition, which runs the UNO Center just down the street for the property. The coalition's Executive Director Amber Besaw was the only other person to attend the public hearing.

"She's going to give us a little bit of further exposure on this topic for the promotion of the redevelopment of the area," Nuvallie said, through the NBCC's newsletter and forums.
Letter: Why I'm Voting for Jennifer Macksey for Mayor

To the Editor:



When Jennifer announced her intention to run for mayor of the city of North Adams, I knew from that moment who I would be voting for. As a retired city clerk for the city of North Adams, I had the pleasure of getting to know Jennifer as a co-worker and as the young woman she has grown to be. Although I did not work in her direct office, as the city clerk and clerk of the council, many times I asked for her assistance when it came to municipal finances. I always felt confident in Jennifer when I needed her expertise. Jennifer was always willing to take the time to be certain it fell within Massachusetts General Laws.

Jennifer has proven the high standards she has set for herself, starting from a young child, working in her Dad's store to working at the landfill before college. Her education in our schools and her college education brought her through the many accomplishments in her career. As procurement officer, city treasurer and tax collector, she had the opportunity to know every employee, and the functions of each department. As a department head, she was able to maintain a working relationship with her staff and her fellow co-workers in City Hall. While working at MCLA, Southern Vermont College and most recently Northern Berkshire School Union, she was able to develop her leadership skills.

I'm honored to be part of Jennifer's team. Jennifer has had many meetings with residents of the city and heard their concerns; she will not dismiss those concerns. She has a definite plan for the city of North Adams and understands the challenges the city is facing. Jennifer's strong government experience and leadership is what it takes to move the city of North Adams forward.

Jennifer believes now is the time for her to give back to the community she loves and become your mayor.

I ask the voters of this community, do you want a mayor who will respond and understand your needs and run a more efficient and accountable government? If yes, please vote along with me on Nov. 2 for Jennifer Macksey for mayor.

Marilyn Gomeau

North Adams, Mass.

Marilyn Gomeau is a retired city clerk for the city of North Adams.
Name: Mark Vanni

Company: Truata

Job Title: Chief Operating Officer

Location: Dublin

In his role as COO, Mark Vanni leverages more than 20 years of operational experience to drive platform strategy, lead customer relationships and ensure the flawless delivery of Truatas privacy-enhanced data solutions and technologies. Prior to joining Truata, Vanni led international product and technology teams and developed his operational expertise across Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America and North America. Serving global customers and working across technology industries that include payments, data analytics, fraud and risk management, Vanni is well-versed in the dynamics of running international organisations as well as developing startups.Vanni previously founded and led the tech development as CTO of Solspark, a first-generation payment-processing technology and services, which was acquired by First Data in 2003.

What was the most valuable piece of career advice that you received? Early in my career, I asked the managing partner of an IT consulting firm how partners know what to do with the business; I was curious about their decision-making process. In short, he said that there was no magic formula or specific process; they had to use sound judgement and leverage experience. The simplicity and essence of his message was learn to trust yourself. There is a real fear of falling into analysis paralysis when having to make big, strategic decisions, but if you apply the knowledge and experience you have to arrive at a logically sound decision then you can move forward with confidence. Of course, over the years, you refine your analytical skills and acquire greater experience so that you can take on more challenging problems or develop deeper strategies for managing and navigating different forces impacting your business, but in the end you have to trust in the decisions you make while being prepared to pivot if things dont play out the way you intended. This advice is true for both managing your business and your career.

What was the worst piece of business advice that you received? At the height of the tech bubble, in February 2000, we were just 9 months into our tech startup journey. We were in the process of seeking funding when we were advised to wait before proceeding with our next formal funding round in order to secure a better valuation. However, the tech bubble burst the following month and that ended the era where easy money was more readily available to startups. The lesson? Ultimately, the music will always stop playing as nothing lasts forever; just make sure that you have a chair to sit in when it does.

What advice would you give to someone starting their career in IT/tech? Your career is a continuous learning process, so get comfortable with being uncomfortable. Whether you are acquiring new skills as a technical professional or developing your management style, you have to be willing to adapt and grow. People get asked to do jobs they arent ready for, or jobs that dont align with their true passion, and thats where struggles and failure begins. You have to recognise that different jobs require different skillsets, so approach new challenges with a growth mindset and a desire to learn. After all, companies are always seeking out those who thrive on the challenge of taking on new responsibilities.

Did you always want to work in IT/tech? From an early age, I was drawn to computers, programming and all things tech related. I dabbled in anthropology at university while continuing to develop my programming skills. I dont think I have ever been the most technically-minded person or the most business-orientated person  I sit confidently at the intersection of the two. My passion lies in having the ability to apply technology to business challenges; its a rewarding space to play in and gives you a well-rounded skillset.

What was your first job in IT/tech? I came straight out of university and launched into a role as a programmer analyst  it was centred around coding and building systems.

What are some common misconceptions about working in IT/tech? There is often a general perception that technology is extremely complex and, therefore, you have to have a certain set of skills to even approach the industry. However, tech is no different from other professional paths; it is a discipline. No matter what your discipline, there are skills you learn and knowledge that you acquire and apply to real-world scenarios. Often, youll hear business professionals say that they dont understand any of it, but technology and business are interlinked in todays world. Rather than being intimidated by it, it is important to take the time to learn. In fact, it is incredibly useful for tech professionals to understand business and vice versa; this enables teams to understand just how interwoven disciplines are when it comes to delivering on strategic and commercial objectives.

What tips would you give to someone aiming for a c-level position? In order to be well-rounded, you have to understand both business and people. At C-suite level, you still have operational and technical responsibilities; however, as a senior leader, you need to understand how different areas feed into what you do. Until more recently, people have associated C-suite capabilities with those who have pursued an MBA; while that may be useful, there are other ways of applying yourself to gain the required knowledge and experience. Ultimately, you have to have a holistic understanding and interest in the commercial components of business - not just the technical prowess in your specific area.

What are your career ambitions and have you reached them yet? As a COO and reporting directly to the CEO, the next logical next step in the career trajectory is to look to the role above. However, you have to have a real passion to be a CEO; you become the one person who is accountable for building out the team, the company culture, and you are managing both the internal and external stakeholders. Its a multi-dimensional role that offers an intriguing level of challenge, but you have to ask whether that is truly something that would drive you.

I have been fortunate to have a fairly diverse career to-date, and I have learned that lateral moves can be equally as rewarding - if not more rewarding - than moving up the metaphorical ladder. My career ambitions have always been driven by my curiosity and desire to learn; it is stagnation that stifles growth. At Truata, we are building and scaling, so the challenges that come with that make it highly motivating and rewarding.

Do you have a good work life balance in your current role? With technology having become an extension of ourselves, I think that the lines have been blurred for most people and, of course, COVID hasnt helped the situation! Also, when you are passionate about what you do and invested in it, you are always thinking about it to some extent, so you do have to look for ways to disconnect or to build artificial barriers. Work life balance is incredibly important, but it is also paradoxical  you tend to do your best thinking when you have the time not to think about it; your subconscious continues to work while you are trying to free your mind. I consciously make time to switch-off and reset because you bounce back with re-energised purpose, which is important when working in a startup as it is a high-energy but high-reward environment. The pace of change over the last 20 years has accelerated the speed at which organisations move, so ensure you make the time to disconnect.

What, if anything, would you change about the route your career path has taken? I dont think there is anything that I would change in particular. Early on, I identified my strengths and weaknesses, then played to those strengths while actively seeking to improve the weaknesses. I started out doing what I enjoyed by immersing myself in tech and then steered my learning towards my areas of passion. Im not one for regrets because I have found that I have sought-out and taken advantage of opportunities when I have felt I have been at an inflection point in my career  and those shifts have typically come when I have felt that I am no longer learning. Its that continuous self-development that keeps you growing and progressing.

Which would you recommend: A coding bootcamp or a computer science degree? I would have to say a Computer Science degree for anyone starting out in their career, and the reason for that is because you are immediately conveying that you have the foundational knowledge in a relevant discipline. You want a strong foundation in logic, math, architecture, programming etc., and this degree demonstrates that you have a basic mastery of these foundational skills and the desire to see it through. But it doesnt have to be computer science; data science and data analytics offer that same broad base to build upon.

When it comes to business, technology is just the tool for efficiency and ease of building solutions to problems, programming languages and tools covered by bootcamps will change over time. A solid foundation in technology from a degree will allow you to adapt over time to the changing technology landscape.

How important are specific certifications? At the start of your career, your certifications serve as your passport into industry experience. How do you prove to someone that you know what you are doing? You get certified. You prove that you have taken the time to invest in yourself and have developed that level of proficiency and discipline. And from there, you gain your experience and build a track record for yourself. The further you move along in your career, the less weight that is given to specific certifications.

What are the three skills or abilities you look for in prospective candidates? Communication. It has to be very clear that the candidate will have the ability to communicate effectively with me; I also need to know that I will be able to communicate with them.

Critical thinking. Prospective candidates need to show that they can logically work through a problem. Even without knowledge of industry or tech, there has to be an innate ability to approach a problem and work though it with a level of assertiveness, logic and organisation.

The skillset. However, the ability to communicate and solve a problem comes before the skills  if they can do the first two then they can acquire additional skills.

What would put you off a candidate? The inverse of the above! Those who dont appear to think critically or logically and those who do not project that they have the communication skills to navigate the role and the team around them.

What are the most common mistakes made by candidates in an interview? How can those mistakes be avoided? One rookie mistake is not doing the research on the company in advance of the interview. If I ask a candidate what Truata does and they cant tell me, it implies that they just see it as a job and havent take the time to learn; this is often indicative of their approach to work. We need people who are invested, who have a passion not only for what we do but also for further developing themselves.

Another common mistake is talking far too much. Its important to answer questions directly and as succinctly as possible. Convey your technical know-how and provide an anecdote that demonstrates your ability to apply your knowledge. This is a far better approach than regurgitating your resume or relaying stats that dont link directly to who you are or what you contributed in your role.

Do you think it is better to have technical or business skills  or a mix of both? Definitely a mix of both. Early on in a career, a technologist will often be bias towards building their tech skills, but when you look at your potential career progression, you will need a balance if you want to grow into leadership roles. Seek out opportunities to gain knowledge on the business side of things; you will have the ability to do both if you have a hunger to learn. Even if you decide you want to stay in a specific tech role, understanding the business context will always be important and serve you to better apply the technologies that you develop.
The Canadian Coast Guard says maritime workers are waiting for calmer weather before they can retrieve some 35 containers that have been drifting near the Strait of Juan de Fuca for the past several days
Police identify third suspect involved in killing of south Kitsap County teen who's remains were burned in Mason County
On 25 October, several journalists were arrested and media offices stormed during the unfolding of a military coup in Khartoum. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) expresses serious concerns over such violence against journalists and calls on the military to respect press freedom.

Sudanese people protest against a military coup overthrowing the transition to civilian rule, on October 25, 2021 in the capital Khartoum's twin city of Omdurman. Sudan's top general declared a state of emergency and dissolved the authorities leading the country's democratic transition today, after soldiers detained civilian leaders in what the UN condemned as a "coup". AFP

The military seized power in Sudan on 25 October, dissolving the eastern African countrys transitional government while ousted Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other senior officials were put under house arrest.

According to media reports, the military forces have also targeted several journalists in a series of arrests. On Monday, Bloomberg/Al Sharq correspondent Maha Al-Talb and her crew were arrested and held for two hours in the countrys capital city, Khartoum.

On the same day, military officials stormed the headquarters of the Sudanese state radio and TV broadcaster and arrested several of its workers.

"Joint military forces have stormed the TV and radio headquarters in Omdurman and detained a number of staff," the ministry of information said in a statement posted on Facebook.

The uprising military has also disrupted the free access to internet, mobile services and radio stations.

Demonstrators have taken to the streets to protest against the military coup.

Widespread censorship over media in Sudan

The crackdown on journalists and unions has been a recurring event in Sudan in recent years. In August 2020, The Sudanese authorities issued an arrest warrant for the President of Sudanese Journalists' Union following their decision to dissolve the union in 2019, while in December 2020 84 broadcast workers were fired over alleged loyalty to the former regime.

The Sudanese authorities also blocked more than 30 news websitesin the run up to protests demanding the resignation of the government in July 2021.

The IFJ General Secretary, Anthony Bellanger, said: The military must stop the crackdown on media and reestablish the free flow of information and access to the internet. The IFJ will closely monitor all the incidents against journalists to ensure press freedom and a free access to information in such a critical moment for Sudan.
In areas with high vaccination rates, life is transitioning toward a new normal, which involves shrugging off some of the vestiges the depths of the pandemic--presenting an exciting, albeit measured, opportunity for some in-person businesses.

San Francisco, which has one of the highest vaccination rates in the country, lifted indoor facemask requirements on October 15 for vaccinated individuals in limited situations, such as offices, gyms, and other settings with fewer than 100 people. While New York City still faces mask mandates in public settings, illness rates are waning--drawing some health officials to consider shifting Covid-19 to an endemic, a situation in which politicians and business owners are finding ways to integrate safety measures that, at last, treat Covid-19 more like the flu.

If your city is nearing endemic status, you may be wondering what that means on a day-to-day basis. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:

What is an endemic?

An endemic is essentially an ever-present threat. In terms of Covid, that means the virus will keep circulating across the globe for years, with hot spots cropping up. However, its impact will be fairly manageable and integrated into society, becoming more like a perennial illness than a full-blown pandemic.

Do the rules change?

On a city-wide basis, yes. In San Francisco, employers or hosts at a gathering must ensure proper ventilation and those present must be vaccinated and have no recent Covid-19 outbreaks, according to the city. This also means that children under 12 cannot be present. Employers in both SF and New York may ask to see proof of vaccination to sit indoors or attend an event but masks are not required. Businesses may still require employees to wear masks.

Should your policies change?

Not necessarily. The first thing to remember when making new policies: The endemic stage is not the same as life pre-Covid. In an endemic, policy changes actually become even more integrated into regular life, as opposed to rushing back into the way things were pre-Covid. Consider which pandemic-era policies seem to be working healthwise for employees and for the state of the workplace as a whole. You may want to consider making those more permanent than they are today. This may include continuing to encourage employees who are not yet vaccinated to do so, or keeping masking requirements in place for the time being, even if a city lifts its requirement.

What else should you be doing?
Story after story at the moment is focused on just how many employees are quitting, and for good reason. With the Great Resignation in full swing, employers are wondering what's driving people to quit, what they can do to hang onto their people, and if things will ever get back to normal.

But hidden behind the record numbers of people quitting is another quieter phenomenon bosses should also be aware of, according to a new report by Insider's Aki Ito. Some of the employees who said sayonara to their jobs back at the beginning of the Great Resignation are now quietly returning to their previous employers. Bosses should consider welcoming these "boomerang employees" back with open arms.

Why you should be extra nice to departing employees right now

For her deep dive into the new trend, Ito talks to Anthony Klotz, a professor of management at Texas A&M who was prescient in predicting the current surge of resignations. "We're going to see lots of 'boomerang' employees, who a year from now miss their jobs and decide their novel isn't going as well as expected," Klotz now believes.

The article digs into why many employees may consider a return to their previous jobs (in short, they were burned out and just needed a break or mistook the general stagnation of the pandemic for a stalled career), but the most important takeaway for bosses might be Klotz's comments on how to handle resignations.

Desperate bosses might take on just about anyone willing to work at the moment, but Klotz insists welcoming back boomerang employees is a particularly smart move. "Selecting employees is really, really hard to do," Klotz explains (and Nobel laureates confirm). "And nobody's that good at it, because I can't see whether you're going to be a good worker or not. With boomerang employees, I've seen you work, so the risk of the selection process goes way down."

But if you're going to have an open-door policy for returnees, that should also impact how you handle resignations, Klotz argues. "For starters, he suggests companies make their off-boarding -- things like the exit interview -- as pleasant as the onboarding," Ito notes. Companies should also take a page out the playbook of management consultancies and make a point of being nice to departing employees.

"They understand that the quitters might one day become their clients; many even host networking gatherings for alumni," explains Ito. That might be a step too far for many smaller businesses, but there's nothing stopping you from checking in with your former employees just to test the waters as long as they left on good terms.

"When you get to a new job, there's a honeymoon period," Klotz explains. "And then there's often a hangover period. If my old company called me in those weak moments, I'd probably be like, 'You'll take me right back? OK!'"
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In a crucial development, former Attorney General of India (AGI) Mukul Rohatgi will appear for Aryan Khan's bail plea today before the Bombay High Court.

Rohatgi -- who recently slammed the Narcotics Control Bureau by terming it as "an Ostrich with head buried in the sand", will join Khan's existing battery of lawyers in the HC during the day.

Besides Rohatgi, Khan's side comprises senior lawyers like Amit Desai and Satish Maneshinde who have fought for him in the Magistrate Court and Special NDPS Court, besides the HC.

File Photo

What's the case

Khan, 24, and 7 others were detained on October 2 after the NCB raided a rave party aboard a cruise ship, and the following day arrested, with another 12 subsequent arrests made in the sensational case.

The HC will hear the bail pleas of Khan, Arbaaz Merchant, and Munmun Dhamecha, all of whom have so far spent 25 nights away from home.

Aryan Khan

The drugs case has also ignited a political row with the Maharashtra government accusing the NCB of going after specific individuals on orders from the Centre.

Rohatgi is the son of former Delhi High Court judge Justice Awadh Behari Rohatgi. He has represented the Government of Gujarat in the Supreme Court in the 2002 Gujarat riots and allegedly fake encounter death cases, including the Best Bakery and Zahira Sheikh cases.

The trio is presently in judicial custody. While Aryan Khan and Merchant are lodged at the Arthur Road prison in Mumbai, Dhamecha is lodged at the Byculla women's prison here.



Aryan Khan and others accused in the case have been booked for offences under Sections 8(c), 20(b), 27, 28, 29 and 35 of the NDPS Act.

So far, 20 people have been arrested in the case.




In the face of recent whistleblower revelations about Facebook's inaction towards hate speech and misinformation, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg has acknowledged the startling series of whistleblower allegations.

During Facebook's Q3 earnings call on Monday, Zuckerberg claimed that the recent leaks surrounding Facebook were part of a "coordinated effort to selectively use leaked documents to paint a false picture" of Facebook and its subsidiaries.

Xinhua

Zuckerberg's blame game

Pinning the blame on the complications of "balancing difficult social values", Zuckerberg said that Facebook has spent $5 billion in just 2021 in terms of safety and security.

In the call, Zuckerberg made a lot of sweeping statements, suggesting that polarisation had been underway in the United States even before he was born, while suggesting that social media "cannot fix" problems that it did cause in the first place.

Also read: Hateful Ads On Facebook Are Cheaper Than Other Ads, Says Facebook Whistleblower

Reuters

That's not all! In the scathing remarks, Zuckerberg also hit out at US officials, claiming that companies like Facebook should not be forced to make such decisions themselves and that some sort of regulation should be in place.

Naturally, media had it coming too. "We cannot change the underlying media dynamics", PCMag quoted Zuckerberg as saying.

Whistleblowing continues

Recently, whistleblower testimony from Frances Haugen, a former Facebook employee has shook the company's ground. She testified before lawmakers in London yesterday, after appearing before US Congress earlier, where she urged lawmakers to help Facebook and alleged the company doesn't do enough to tackle hate speech and misinformation.

She also alleged that Facebook prioritises profit over the well-being of its users, a claim corroborated by other whistleblowers like former Facebook data scientist Sophie Zhang.

Reuters

Also read: New Whistleblower Alleges Facebook's Criminality, Says She Has 'Blood On Her Hands'



Haugen told British lawmakers in London that advertisements with inflammatory content are cheaper than other ads on Facebook, sparking a new flame in the never-ending Facebook saga. With "Facebook Papers" now making the rounds on global media outlets, there's no fanning this fire - not from Zuckerberg's end.

What do you think about Facebook and its user practices? Let us know in the comments below. For more in the world of technology and science, keep reading Indiatimes.com.
Birds migrating from Europe to southern regions such as Africa could gradually come to a halt thanks to climate change, claims a new study.

Unsplash

Also Read: Climate Change Is Affecting Where Birds Breed And Their Population, Reveals Study

This is according to a study, published in Global Change Biology, conducted by author Keiran Lawrence, whos an ecologist at Durham University.



For the study, Lawrence and his colleagues looked at data on local bird sightings collected by ornithologists in the Gambia from 1964 to 2019 and members of the Gibraltar Ornithological and Natural History Society from 1991 to 2018.



Researchers looked at changes in migratory birds' arrival and departure dates over time while comparing changes in climate and vegetation along the way.

They found that birds are arriving at their winter migration destinations later into the autumn than they did before. Moreover, they were also heading back north earlier during spring.

Also Read: Young Birds Are Forgetting Their Songs As Adults Are Dying Faster, Says Study

Lawrence explains, If the trends we have seen in this study continue we may see that, in time, some birds will spend no time at all in sub-Saharan Africa, and instead spend the full year within Europe. The changes in migratory habits we are already seeing could lead to longer breeding seasons for these species, as well as knock-on effects on other species  both here in the UK and in the traditional winter migration destinations.

Unsplash

Also Read: Song Birds Sing And Communicate With Others Just Like Humans, Reveals Study

He added, In Europe, the longer presence of traditionally migratory birds could lead to increased competition for autumn/winter food and resources for resident bird species that do not migrate. Meanwhile, in the traditional migration destinations of sub-Saharan Africa, a reduction in the time migratory birds spend there could have implications for ecosystem services such as insect consumption, seed dispersal and pollination.



Stephen Willis, a bioscientist at Durham further stated that the team is now working on a new model being developed at Durham to simulate these complex migrations that could be applied to future scenarios to understand how the patterns we have identified in trans-Saharan birds over recent decades could continue or change.

Keep reading Indiatimes.com for the latest science and technology news and updates.
It is believed that everything on our planet obeys the law of gravity which was discovered by great English physicist Isaac Newton in the 17 century. We know perfectly well that if you take a pen from the table and drop it, then it will definitely not fly up. But there are gravitational anomalies where this law does not work: there a muffled car goes uphill by itself, a waterfall flows upward, and a multi-ton boulder keeps on top of a cliff at an unrealistic slope, sways, but does not fall down. Here are some places on the earth where gravity does not work at all:

1. Reverse Waterfall, India

WhatsHot

The picturesque reverse waterfall is located in Naneghat or popularly known as Nana Ghat which is a mountain range in Maharashtra near the Konkan coast and Deccan plateau. The serene Naneghat certainly demands a trek when you visit. A trek all the way to the reverse waterfall will feel nothing short of magical. Well, the simple reason behind this reverse effect is the strong force of the winds that push the water upwards.



2. Mount Aragats, Armenia

Daily Hunt

Located on the border between Turkey and Armenia, a mountain blows people away. Thousands of travellers around the world come to this mountain every year to witness the incredible anti-gravity phenomenon where a neutral car automatically goes uphill, without any driver. If you turn off the engine of your car at the foot of the mountain, the car will go up on its own. There is a river nearby that goes up too. Many people who have visited this site claim that it is easier to go up than to go down.



3. Santa Cruz Mystery Spot, United States

Mystery Spot

Located in Santa Cruz, California, at just 150 feet or 46 meters in diameter, the site can be found amidst the forests and is one of the most famous secret places in the United States. The mystery spot was discovered in 1939 by a group of surveyors and opened to the public in 1940. Strangely enough, people walk around looking like they're leaning over and that anytime they're going to take a good fall. There is still no logical explanation for this, but visitors often return to feel the sensation of being there again.



4. St. Ignace Mystery Spot, United States

Stignace

This place was discovered in 1950. When a team of some people reached this place to investigate, all their equipment simply stopped working. Their tripods were not level, and the sense of height was always distorted. It is possible to balance on a wall and, as expected, have various sensations of dizziness. It's really like gravity is ignored. After several days it was found that the force of gravity does not work in an area of 300 square feet here. Standing in this place, you will feel like you are in a spaceship.



5. Oregon Vortex, United States

Trip Advisor

Located on Sardine Creek in Gold Hill, Oregon, in the United States, Oregon Vortex is one of Oregons oldest and most original examples of Roadside Americana and also a glimpse of a strange world where the improbable is the commonplace and everyday physical facts are reversed. Before any construction in the region, locals said that the Amerindians called this site forbidden territory. In addition, travellers who passed there often saw their horses refuse to cross the region. The Oregon Vortex is a place where tape measures, balls that roll uphill, yardsticks, bubble levels, and plumb lines are used to demonstrate the phenomena.



6. The Hoover Dam, Nevada, United States

Youtube

One of the amazing tourist destinations in the United States, if you visit this 221.4m high dam you can conduct an experiment by pouring water from a bottle. The liquid does not flow as usual, it rather flies upwards! The same thing happens if you try to throw a light object from the same spot, it will instead start to float due to the strong wind.



7. Spook Hill, Florida

The travel Pockets

Located on Lake Wales Ridge of Florida, Spook Hill is a place where vehicles move in the direction of the slope without a driver. At this place, it's just the opposite. Here if you stop and park your car, it automatically gets pulled in the opposite direction of the slope. This is due to the absence of gravitational force here.



8. Magnetic Hill, India

Think Stock

Located at a distance of 30 kms from Leh city on the Leh-Kargil Highway, these hills appear to have magnetic properties capable of pulling cars up just like Spook hill and Mount Aragats. Due to this extraordinary phenomenon, it has been given many names like 'Mystery Hill' and 'Gravity Hill'. Situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level, the Indus River flows on the eastern side of this hill.



When planes pass by these hills, they need to increase their altitude so they don't get pulled down. Of course, the magnetic force would not be able to cause the plane to crash, but it is something used as a precaution. On the other hand, many people believe that it is all an illusion created by the round shape of the hills.

According to scientists, this is the magnetic power in the hill located near Gurudwara Pathar Sahib. Airplanes passing above also come in the grip of this power. Several pilots have admitted to feeling tremors while passing through.

9. The Devils Tower, United States

Unsplash

The Devils Tower is a natural monolith located near the towns of Hulett and Sundance in Crook County, northeastern Wyoming is the first National Monument in the United States. The tower is 867 feet from its base to the summit. It stands 1,267 feet above the Belle Fourche River and is 5,112 feet above sea level. The mound's perfect shape and size makes it Wyoming's most important site. This mound was first climbed by two local ranchers Willard Ripley and William Rogers using a 350-foot wooden ladder in 1893. Climbers from all over the world consider Devils Tower to be a unique and premier climbing area. Over 5000 climbers come to Devils Tower each year.

10. Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, Myanmar

AFP

Kyaiktiyo Pagoda, also known as Golden Rock, is a well-known Buddhist pilgrimage site in Mon State, Burma. This rock is covered in gold leaves pasted on by its male devotees and it looks like it's going to fall. But in reality, it has rested in the same place for 2,500 years! The huge boulder measures about 6m in diameter and is poised at an altitude of 1,200m. According to the story, the rock is held by the hair of Buddha which is inside. The rock is not fixed and anyone could move it, but even nature has not yet. It is said that only a woman could move the rock, so women are not allowed to touch it.



11. Reverse Waterfall, England

Youtube

Another reverse waterfall is located near Hayfield in Derbyshire Peak District where the river Kinder flows downward to a certain point and then it starts flowing upwards due to strong wind storms that force water to flow upwards.


A video is going viral showing a bear making a surprise appearance at a wedding in Mexico, leaving guests stunned.

In the clip, a bear can be seen gatecrashing a wedding dinner and leaning across an empty table and knocking over the floral centerpiece and the cutlery. People can be heard banging on pots and pans in an attempt to scare away the bear.

The bear then walks past another reception table on its way towards the exit behind a wedding guest, who seemed unfazed by the fairly large mammal and continued to eat his dinner.



Text overlaying the footage reads: "A bear showed up at my cousin's wedding."



Speaking to KTLA, Angie Diaz, the woman who posted the video, explained she wasn't scared, but "mesmerized."



Screengrab/YouTube

She revealed: "Everything started because the wedding was in a forest, and we knew there are wild animals everywhere, but we were not expecting the bear to crash, obviously.



"When we saw it the staff were telling us 'don't move, don't move!' because obviously it was dangerous, it was life-threatening."



Diaz then captioned the post, writing: "He just wanted some food #smh #SaveIt4TheEndZone #MakeADogsDay #myfinALLYmoment #mexico #wedding #beartok #fyp."

The video has gained lots of traction online since it was posted on October 22.



In an unrelated incident that took place in July, a Russian circus show went horribly wrong after a brown bear attacked a female trainer while performing.





A shocking clip recorded by an audience member showed the animal clawing at the woman's leg while horrified children and parents watch on. The bear can be seen grabbing the trainer and holding her foot while she tries to move away.

As things started to go sideways, two male trainers can be seen intervening and moving the bear away and trying to make it perform at the circus. But the animal then attacks the woman again.

The wild animal - dressed in a hat and glittering scarf - kept pulling the woman's foot as she fell on the floor.

The Russian Investigative Committee looked into the freak incident to check whether there were safety breaches during the performance.



While the video clearly shows what went down, the circus later denied there had been an attack.
In a bizarre incident, a man in Maharashtra's Ahmednagar tried to stage his own death using a cobra. The reason? Well, he tried to do so to get a life insurance claim worth UDS 5 million, which amounts to Rs 37.5 crore.

The plot, however, unravelled when the insurance company sent an investigator to gather the facts around his death, The Indian Express reported.

According to police, Prabhakar Bhimaji Waghchaure had been living in the US for 20 years and has moved back to India in January this year.

Waghchaure was residing in the Rajur village of Ahmednagar, Maharashtra since then. Officials from the Rajur Police station received the reports of the death of Waghchaure from a local government hospital in the area on April 22.



Twitter/@NagarPolice

The body of Waghchaure was identified by a man who claimed to be his nephew and another man who claimed to be a resident of the Rajur village. Another person, identified as Rajur resident Harshad Lahamge, too identified the body as that of Waghchaure.



After receiving the preliminary medical report, which stated that the cause of death was snakebite, the body was handed over to the nephew for last rites to be performed.

However, things took a dramatic turn when officials from the insurance firm investigating Waghchaures life insurance claim contacted Ahmednagar authorities seeking more information on his death.

Representational Image/Shutterstock

As part of the probe, the police initially visited Waghchaures house in Rajur. A neighbour said she had not heard of any snakebite incident but had seen an ambulance come to the house at the time of the alleged incident.



When police contacted Lahamge, he claimed that Praveen had died of COVID, the report added.

As police were unable to trace any relative of the deceased, they looked at Waghchaures call records and found him alive, after which he was detained.



Police have also identified the deceased as Navnath Yashwant Aanap (50), who had been living in the same area.
Air stewardesses pose for a picture during the unveiling of a SpiceJet Boeing 737 design celebrating India's administering its billionth Covid-19 vaccine dose, during an unveiling event at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi on Oct. 21, 2021. (Prakash Singh/AFP via Getty Images)
Senate Intelligence Committee Chairman Senator Mark Warner (D-Virginia) speaks during a Senate Select Committee on Intelligence hearing on Capitol Hill on April 14 in Washington, DC. Warner, and Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, co-chairs of the Senate India Caucus, have written a letter to President Joe Biden, asking him to waive sanctions against India for buying military equipment from Russia. (Graeme Jennings-Pool/Getty Images photo)
After feedback from the community at large, Microsoft has reversed itself over the removal of the Hot Reload capability from the .NET SDK repository.

In an October 23 blog post about .NET Hot Load support via the CLI, Microsofts Scott Hunter, director of program management for .NET, apologized for the removal. We made a mistake in executing on our decision and took longer than expected to respond back to the community. We have approved the pull request to re-enable this code path and it will be in the GA build of the .NET 6 SDK.

Hot Reload enables developers to modify an apps managed source code while the application is running, with no need to manually pause or hit a breakpoint. The capability was previewed in Visual Studio 2019, with the full experience to arrive in the planned Visual Studio 2022 release, due as a production release on November 8. Microsofts .NET 6 software development platform also is expected in that timeframe.

Hunter said that with time getting short for the release of .NET 6 and Visual Studio 2022, Microsoft chose to focus on bringing Hot Reload to Visual Studio 2022 first. In executing this plan, source code inadvertently was deleted instead of just not invoking the code path. Hunter said Microsoft underestimated the number of developers that are dependent upon this capability in their environments across scenarios, and how the CLI was being used alongside Visual Studio to drive inner loop productivity by many. He also said the vast majority of .NET developers are using Visual Studio, and Microsoft wanted to make sure the IDE delivers the best experience for .NET 6.

Microsoft on October 20 had posted a blog on Hot Reload progress and Visual Studio 2022, emphasizing use of Hot Reload with Visual Studio 2022. The blog also cited unsupported scenarios for Hot Reload including apps built using F# or those targeting .NET Native.
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Driving a truck too fast and injuring a fellow officer during a firearms training is not within the scope of employment duties for a Massachusetts police officer, the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court found. This means his insurer is on the hook for damages caused, the court determined.

Officer Shawn Sheehan is a fourteen-year veteran of the Raynham, Massachusetts, police department and has been a certified firearms instructor for the past seven years. On June 12, 2017, he was paid eight hours of overtime to conduct a firearms training at a firing range on Raynham-owned property. Officer Russell Berry of the Raynham Police Department was also paid eight hours of overtime to attend the day-long training, as all officers were required to do annually.

The officers took a paid lunch break after the morning training session, and Sheehan drove his pickup truck, insured by Commerce, to a nearby store. He testified in court that the lunch was a working lunch in which officers would further discuss firearms, and he remained on the clock during the break.

When Sheehan returned, he drove his truck directly onto the range behind the storage container where other officers sometimes parked rather than in the parking lot. He testified that as he pulled into the range, he drove faster than [he] should have, coming in a little hot, spinning the rear tires.

He said in his testimony that he stopped, and then sped up, spinning rocks or gravel before heading toward the picnic table where Berry sat. Although Sheehan applied the brakes, the truck slid and struck Berry, pinning his leg between the truck and the picnic table. Sheehan was suspended for five days without pay for his misconduct.

Berry sustained severe injuries to his leg and incurred medical bills of more than $130,000. He received leave with pay under Massachusetts workers compensation act as a result of his injuries. Claiming that Sheehans liability was clear, Berry submitted a written demand letter to Commerce stating it was responsible for payments to cover his damages as Sheehans auto insurer. Commerce denied coverage, claiming that Sheehan was a public employee acting within the scope of his employment and was immune from tort liability.

As a result, Berry brought an action against Commerce in the Superior Court seeking judgment that Sheehan was not immune from liability. On cross motions for summary judgment, a Superior Court judge ruled in favor of Berry. The court found that Commerce was liable for Berrys injuries because Sheehan was not acting within the scope of his employment at the time of the accident.

After the case was transferred to the Supreme Judicial Court from the Appeals Court, Justice Dalila Argaez Wendlandt found that Commerce was correct in claiming some tortious acts may still be within the scope of employment. However, she concluded that this was not one of them.

Thats because the court uses a three-part test to determine whether an act resulting in injury falls within the scope of employment. The test considers whether the conduct is something the employee was hired to perform, whether it occurred within authorized time and space limits, and whether its motivated by a purpose to serve the employer.

In this case, the court determined that only the second factor  whether the conduct occurred within authorized time and space limits  clearly favors Commerce. The circumstances concerning the first factor  whether the conduct was something the employee was hired to perform  were less clear.

Some details of the incident support the idea that Sheehan was acting within the scope of his employment. He was, after all, conducting mandatory firearms training as part of his employment with the police department that all officers, including Berry, were mandated to attend annually. Both Sheehan and Berry were paid overtime to be at the range, were on town-owned property and were using police department equipment. Even the time spent leaving the range to buy lunch was paid time, the court explained.

However, Sheehans injury-causing conduct  driving onto the range too fast in his truck and eventually toward Berry, spinning his tires in the gravel, and braking and causing his truck to slide into Berry  was not part of the duties that he was hired to perform, the court found.

His unsafe driving was not motivated, even in part, by a purpose to serve his employer, Wendlandt wrote in the court opinion. As Sheehan acknowledges, nothing in the dangerous game of driving fast toward the picnic table, behind the storage container where officers were present, slamming on his brakes, and skidding toward the officers furthered the interests of the town.

With this in mind, the Supreme Judicial Court upheld the Superior Court decision that Sheehan was not acting within the scope of his employment and is therefore not immune from tort liability, rendering Commerce responsible for damages in this case.

The case is Russell Berry vs. Commerce Insurance Company.

Topics Carriers Massachusetts Training Development
The MEMIC Group Hires Pennsylvanias Beswick, Delawares Grandrino

Cindy Beswick of Pennsylvania and Angela Grandrino of Delaware have been appointed as senior production underwriter and production underwriter, respectively, by workers compensation specialist The MEMIC Group. Their appointments support MEMICs continued growth in the Mid-Atlantic market.

Beswicks career in workers compensation insurance spans more than 26 years and includes hands-on experience in business development, account management and strategic relationship building.

Grandrino began her career in insurance within an agency as insurance coordinator in 2004. She has worked with both domestic and foreign lines for small businesses and has extensive knowledge in small business solutions.

The MEMIC Group includes MEMIC Indemnity Company, MEMIC Casualty Company, and parent company Maine Employers Mutual Insurance Company. It holds licenses to write workers compensation across the country.

Source: The MEMIC Group

GCG Financial Names Sobelman as Senior VP of Benefits Consulting

GCG Financial, an Alera Group Company and a full-service financial services firm, named Pauline Sobelman as senior vice president of benefits consulting.

Sobelman has more than 25 years of employee benefits experience, including knowledge of the risk industry. In her new role, she will create strategies to support both the employer goals of fiscal responsibility and the employee needs for health and financial well-being. Sobelman also brings experience and training in diversity, equity, and inclusion and is well-positioned to lead GCG and its clients in these efforts.

Joining existing Senior Vice President Jeff Kolker, the two will partner with GCGs team to support the large market segment. Additionally, as senior vice president, Sobelman is charged with supporting new business development, mentoring rising members within the team, and providing consulting support, thought leadership and subject matter expertise.

Prior to joining GCG Financial, Sobelman held various employee benefits leadership positions for companies such as Lockton Companies, USI Insurance Services, and most recently, Risk Strategies Company.

Source: GCG Financial

NFP Hires Woodman as VP Within National Claims Practice

NFP, an insurance broker and consultant that provides property/casualty, corporate benefits, retirement and individual solutions, hired Mary Woodman to its national claims practice as a vice president.

Woodman will help to develop, implement and refine overall claims programs, troubleshoot any issues or inquiries, monitor any large losses and lead periodic reviews and strategy discussions with clients.

Woodman joins NFP from Marsh JLT Specialty, where she served as a vice president in its casualty claims department. Prior to that, she worked as a claims consultant for Aon Risk Solutions and Wells Fargo Insurance Services. In all, she brings 20 years of claims advocacy and litigation management experience to NFP.

Source: NFP
SYDNEY  A small Australian publisher is calling for the government to enforce a new law to compel Facebook Inc to negotiate a content deal, prompting the architect of the rule to say he was concerned about the social media giants behavior.

The petition by academic publisher The Conversation, emailed to its readers at the weekend, reflects a groundswell of disquiet among smaller Australian outlets who have not reached deals with Facebook, as mandated by the new law.

The U.S. internet giant and Alphabet Incs Google have been required since March to negotiate with Australian outlets for content that drives traffic, and advertising, to their websites. If they dont, the government may take over the negotiation.

Most large media companies like News Corp and the Australian Broadcasting Corp have struck deals with both companies, but some independent outlets like The Conversation  as first reported by Reuters  say they have been unfairly spurned.

The Conversation should not be treated differently to other media outlets, the publishers editor, Misha Ketchell, said in the email to readers, seen by Reuters. We do not want to let Facebook off the hook, he added, calling for readers to sign a petition and write to their local member of parliament demanding Facebook be designated for intervention.

Facebook denied the allegations.

To date, weve signed commercial deals that will support more than 200 newsrooms across the county, Mia Garlick, Director of Public Policy, Facebook Australia and New Zealand, told Reuters.

In addition, were establishing a fund with Country Press Australia to support digital transformation of regional newsrooms and we have already announced our $15 million Australian News Fund which provides dedicated funding to independent, digital and smaller newsrooms.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg, who ultimately decides whether intervention is needed, said the government expects all parties to work constructively towards reaching commercial agreements in the spirit of collaboration and good faith encouraged by the code.

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission Chair Rod Sims, who oversaw the design of the News Media Bargaining Code, said the system had been successful but singled out Facebooks refusal to negotiate with The Conversation and foreign language broadcaster SBS for concern.

Google is still negotiating and finalizing deals with more news media companies and seems to be approaching this exercise in the right spirit, Sims said in a statement.

We are concerned that Facebook does not currently seem to take the same approach.

A planned federal government review of the law next year would examine closely the performance of all parties and whether the governments expectations have been met, Sims added.

The Conversations petition had collected 7487 online signatures by late Monday in Australia, and the publisher said it planned to deliver the total result to the treasurer in March 2022, when the review is scheduled to begin.

(Reporting by Byron Kaye; editing by Shri Navaratnam, Jane Wardell and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)

Photo credit: Uli Deck/Getty Images/picture alliance

Topics Australia
The global insurance industry can currently expect a long-run annual average loss of $106 billion and a greater than a 40% chance of experiencing an annual loss of more than $200 billion in the next decade, according to Boston-based modeling firm AIR Worldwide.

AIR estimates theres a 5% probability of insurance industry losses exceeding $203 billion in a given year (with a 20-year return period), explained Vijay Padmanabhan, vice president at AIR Worldwide during an interview with Insurance Journal to discuss AIRs recent catastrophe loss report, titled Global Modeled Catastrophe Losses, October 2021.

Over the next 10 years, theres a 1% chance of losses being higher than $320 billion (with a hundred-year return period) in any given year, while there is a 0.4% likelihood that losses could hit $397 billion (with a 250-year return period), he explained.

The annual average loss (AAL) of $106 billion notably exceeds the actual average [annual] loss of the past decade of approximately $75 billion and is a stark reminder that we have been fortunate to not have had a major tropical cyclone or earthquake event in a highly populated region, said Bill Churney, president of AIR Worldwide, in a statement accompanying the reports publication.

AIR calculates the 10 year average of insured losses to be about $75 billion, but the higher losses of the past few years are not model outliers because the models take into account the possibility of tail risk such as 20, 100, and 250-year return periods, explained Kevin Long, senior director, Public Relations & Social Media for AIR, during the interview. (See chart below).

Our models are showing actual losses on an annual average loss basis could be much higher, said Long So years like this year and last year are not outliers because in fact such years have been considered by our models for quite some time.

This year the industry has experienced losses above $70 billion, year to date, which is lower than AIRs AAL of $106 billion, said Padmanabhan.

Insured Properties in High Hazard Areas

In its report, AIR said average annual insured losses and the metrics for all regions and perils modeled by AIR have generally increased since its first white paper was published in 2012.

This is expected; the rise reflects both increases in the numbers and values of insured properties in areas of high hazard and the inclusion of regions and perils for which new models are now available, said the report.

Long explained that the numbers also will continue to rise as new models and perils are added to AIRs portfolio.

As an example, Padmanabhan said that recent model updates have incorporated more precipitation induced flooding, which is being exacerbated by climate change. Theres more precipitation associated with hurricanes, which is something weve built into our models.

The pace of climate change will evolve over time and will likely lead to larger losses, he noted.

See AIRs website portal on climate change for more information on how the frequency and intensity of atmospheric perils such as tropical cyclones, extratropical cyclones, severe storms, wildfires, inland floods and coastal floods might change as the climate warms.

Insurance Protection Gap

In its latest modeling report, AIR has determined that global economic losses (which included insured, uninsured losses and as well as losses from non-insurable sources such as infrastructure and lost economic productivity) are about three times higher than global insured losses on average, when trended to 2020 dollars. As a result, AIRs modeled global insured AAL of $106 billion would correspond to an economic AAL of more than $320 billion.

The so-called insurance protection gap between insured and uninsured losses limit a countrys ability to recover from a major extreme event, said AIRs report.

On a regional basis, the percentage of economic loss from natural disasters, which is insured, varies considerably, AIR added.

The AIR report pointed to the fact that in North America about 50% of the economic loss from natural disasters is insured, while in Asia and Latin America, insured losses account for only about 12% and 24% of economic losses, respectively, which reflect the very low insurance penetration in these regions.

The portion of economic losses that is insured also varies significantly by peril, with coverage for flood and earthquake losses typically much lower than for risk from wind and fire, said AIR.

Topics Profit Loss Market
Kansas law enforcement agencies have received hundreds of complaints of bias over the past 10 years, but records available to the public show only two alleging racial bias resulted in consequences for officers, an Associated Press examination of the data shows.

Advocates for racial equality question how that could be the case and suggest that law enforcement investigating complaints against other officers and a lack of transparency are problems.

We have the police policing the police, said Sheila Officer, the chairwoman of the citizens group Racial Profiling Advisory Board of Wichita. She says independent citizen panels should conduct investigations of complaints.

Law enforcement agencies and groups interviewed by the AP would not comment on the low overall rates at which bias complaints have been sustained, but said that in their own departments complaints are thoroughly investigated by officers independent of those accused.

Through our hiring processes and background checks and vetting, we hire people of high moral character, said Sgt. Joel Yeldell, a spokesperson with Olathe police in suburban Kansas City. Were gonna make mental mistakes throughout this profession, but the idea is to not make mistakes of the heart.

Osawatomie Police Department Lt. Nick Gazzano, who helps investigate racial bias complaints, said he thinks letting civilian advisory boards make decisions for law enforcement as some advocates suggest would be a litigation risk.

People dont know how to be a cop. They have no idea what the law is, they really dont. They have no idea about the stresses of police and what we do on scene, Gazzano said.

Kansas defines biased policing as an officers unreasonable use of a persons race, ethnicity, national origin, gender or religion when enforcing laws. Lawmakers in 2011 required agencies to submit to the attorney generals office annual reports outlining how many complaints theyd received and what they did about them.

The goal was to provide transparency. But the system is complicated and the substance of most reports isnt readily available for public viewing. Even though the law requires the reports to be available online, not all law enforcement agencies file reports every year and they face no penalty if they dont.

The public can file complaints with the law enforcement agency or the attorney generals office. Republican Attorney General Derek Schmidts office hasnt investigated the complaints it gets since 2017 because grant funding for an investigator ran out, but it forwards some complaints to the Kansas Commission on Peace Officers Standard and Training, CPOST, the agency that can suspend or revoke peace officers licenses.

It is difficult to prove bias based policing cases because quite often what you need to prove is that the officer was biased, that he had some thoughts that he was biased, that hes a racist or something of that nature, said Gary Steed, who served as the executive director of CPOST from 2012 until retiring in August.

The Associated Press reviewed reports of more than 700 bias complaints filed by members of the public to local and state law enforcement agencies and university campus police since 2011. Most of the records were too vaguely worded to determine whether the complaint alleged racial bias or another type of bias.

The records show a 2019 case in Wichita in which two officers were accused of using racial epithets during an investigation, according to police spokesman Charley Davidson. Wichita police did not uphold allegations for one officer, but the other resigned prior to termination, Davidson said in an email.

The AP also obtained through a records request 17 bias complaints that the attorney generals office forwarded to C-POST over the past two years. C-POST Executive Director Doug Schroeder declined to say what action CPOST took on specific complaints, citing a law that makes the records private.

However, C-POSTs website shows that it revoked the license of a former deputy with the Marshall County Sheriffs Office, which said last year the deputy was fired for racist remarks about a homicide in Africa and a threat to someone who insulted the deputy on social media.

The AP also found seven complaints in which investigators said officers violated department policies but did not demonstrate racial bias. Liberal, for example, said two cases involved a lack of courtesy rather than racial bias, and Johnson County said one of its three sustained complaints involved a deputy forwarding an unprofessional email to coworkers.

The Kansas situation isnt unusual. Sam Sinyangwe, a data scientist who co-founded the policing reform group Campaign Zero, said its rare for police departments to uphold racial bias complaints. For example, the Los Angeles Police Department has received thousands of complaints alleging bias but hasnt upheld any of them.

Sinyangwe said Kansas law enforcement could improve transparency by making police misconduct records available to the public. In states like Florida and Illinois, he said, most misconduct records are public records.

Brendon Fox, a Fort Hays State University assistant professor, isnt surprised that so few complaints are found to have merit. Fox, who is Black, sued the city of Wichita in federal court in 2012 after his complaint of racial bias was unsubstantiated by police investigators. The suit was dismissed at the request of both sides.

Fox said a Wichita officer pulled him over in 2011 for failing to signal within 100 feet of a stop sign. His lawsuit said the officer asked to search Foxs rented car and when Fox declined, the officer called for a K-9 unit and a supervisor.

Fox said at least three squad cars were behind his rented car when the supervisor, a sergeant, approached.

He looks at the car and goes, You have to admit that this is probably a nicer car than youre used to driving, Fox said.

Davidson, the Wichita police spokesperson, declined to say why the complaint Fox filed wasnt upheld.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Law Enforcement Kansas
Insurer American International Group announced senior leadership changes that it says strengthen the organization to deliver on its main priorities including the separation of the Life & Retirement business.

AIG announced that effective January 1, 2022, Mark Lyons, currently executive vice president and chief financial officer, AIG, will step into a newly created role of executive vice president, global chief actuary and head of portfolio management, AIG. In this role, Lyons will oversee AIGs global actuarial and ceded reinsurance functions, as well as lead ongoing improvements in AIGs commercial and personal insurance portfolio.

When Lyons transitions to his new role, Shane Fitzsimons will become executive vice president and chief financial officer, AIG. Lyons and Fitzsimons will both continue reporting to Peter Zaffino, president and chief executive officer, AIG and remain members of AIGs executive leadership team.

The leadership roles we are announcing today strengthen our senior management team and support the momentum we have with respect to our highest strategic priorities: positioning AIGs core businesses for long-term, sustainable profitability, preparing our Life & Retirement business to be a standalone market-leading franchise, and the continued execution of AIG 200, said Zaffino.

AIG also announced that Elias Habayeb, currently chief financial officer, General Insurance, and deputy chief financial officer, AIG, has been named chief financial officer for AIGs Life & Retirement business, effective immediately. Habayeb is replacing current Life & Retirement CFO Tom Diemer, who is leaving the company to pursue other opportunities.

As part of the ongoing work to separate the Life & Retirement business, including portions of AIGs Investments unit, Elaine Rocha, currently global chief operating officer, Reinsurance, has been promoted to global chief investment officer, AIG, effective immediately. She reports to Lyons and will transition to reporting to Fitzsimons in January 2022. Rocha will lead the Investments unit that will remain with AIG.

AIG announced in 2020 that it would take steps to split its life insurance and retirement businesses off from its property and casualty operations. The insurer has said it will use an initial public offering to sell nearly 20% of the business. Blackstone Group has also agreed to buy a sizeable stake in the unit.

AIG also announced that Ted Devine has joined AIG as global head of AIG 200, reporting to Zaffino. Devine has been advising AIG on its AIG 200 effort since 2019, focusing on technology delivery and user experience. In this new role, he will be responsible for overseeing and driving continued momentum across AIG 200 as the company modernizes its infrastructure.

Backgrounds

Lyons joined AIG in July 2018 as chief actuary, General Insurance, with more than 40 years of experience in the insurance industry. He assumed the role of CFO AIG in December 2018. Prior to joining AIG, he was with Arch Capital Group. Prior to Arch, he held positions at Zurich U.S., Berkshire Hathaway and previously at AIG.

Fitzsimons joined AIG in July 2019 as global head of Shared Services. He has held roles with increasing responsibility, most recently serving as executive vice president and chief administrative officer, which included head of Financial Planning & Analysis. Fitzsimons also oversaw the modernization initiative AIG 200. Previously, he spent 23 years at GE.

Habayeb has been with AIG for more than 16 years, serving in a number of senior financial roles, most recently as CFO for General Insurance. He also served as AIGs deputy CFO and will continue to serve as AIGs chief accounting officer through February 2022. His previous roles included CFO of International Lease Finance Corp., a subsidiary of AIG. Prior to AIG, Habayeb was a partner at Deloitte.

Over her more than 11-year tenure with AIG, Rocha has contributed across multiple AIG businesses and functions, including Reinsurance; Investments; Legal and AIG 200. From 2015 to 2020, Rocha served as global chief operating officer for AIGs Investments unit. Before joining AIG, Rocha served as an attorney in private practice for over a decade.

Prior to joining AIG, Devine served as founder and CEO of the insurtech broker Insureon, president of Aon Global Retail Brokerage, CEO of Aon Reinsurance, president of Aon Americas, a senior partner at McKinsey and Co. focusing on the Insurance sector, and senior manager of Deloittes M&A practice.

Topics Leadership AIG
A growing number of False Claims Act investigations combined with recent court decisions that found insurers liable for the cost of settlements may spell trouble for commercial liability insurers.

Policyholder attorney Geoffrey B. Fehling, with Hunton Andrews Kurth in Washington D.C., noted two court decisions this year that rejected insurer arguments that payments made to settle fraud allegations were uninsurable.

Fehling said that the U.S. Justice Department announced in January that it had initiated more False Claims Act this year than in any year since 1994. He said policyholders should take heart that they will be able to look to their insurers to defend them.

Alleged fraud is very different than actual fraud, he said in an interview.

The Delaware Superior Court ruled on July 14 that Ace American and other insurers that issued directors and officers and employment practices liability policies were liable for the $18 million cost of defending and settling a whistleblower complaint against Guaranteed Rate Inc. That suit alleged the underwriting company had failed to comply with quality-control requirements for government-backed mortgages.

U.S. District Court Judge Franklin U. Valderrama in Chicago ruled on Oct. 8 that Federal Insurance Co. was required to pay the $10 million policy limit to Astellas Pharma as compensation for the drug manufacturers $100 million settlement with the Justice Department. Federal prosecutors accused the company of violating the False Claims Act by boosting sales of a drug used to treat prostate cancer by steering patients to charities that paid their Medicare co-pays. Federal rules prohibit pharmaceutical companies from offering incentives to drive sales.

The decision noted that $50 million of the settlement agreement was labeled as restitution. If that amount had been identified as disgorgement of profits, the claim would have been uninsurable.

Fehling noted that in both rulings, the policyholders were accused of illegal acts but there had been no final adjudication. Judge Valderrama found no authority to support Federals argument that because Astellas agreed to pay double the amount of the governments alleged losses, the settlement payment amounted to punitive damages, which cannot be covered by insurance. The False Claims Act allows penalties of up to three times the amount of actual damages.

Valderrama rejected the assertion that Astellas payment was an uninsurable disgorgement of ill-gotten gains.

Illinois law recognizes a distinction between the legal remedy of damages and the restitution of unjust gains, the judges order says.

Valderrama granted summary judgment in favor of Astellas. The drug company is pursuing an additional $10 million in coverage from two other insurers.

Tax Deductible

The Justice Department did not routinely identify settlement payments as restitution until after passage of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, signed into law by President Donald Trump in 2017.

Historically, the Internal Revenue Code prohibited taxpayers from deducting any payments to the government for fines or penalties. The 2017 legislation, however, allows deductions for amounts paid as restitution for damage or harm caused by a potential violation of law, or paid to come into compliance with the law, as long as they are identified as restitution in the agreement, according to an article by the Gibson Dunn law firm.

After passage of the law, the Internal Revenue Service asked the Justice Department to change its standard settlement form for False Claims Act violations to identify any amount of the payment that is restitution for civil damages, said Jonathan M. Phillips, a Gibson Dunn partner in Washington D.C. who defends organizations against False Claims Act allegations.

The amount identified as restitution is completely at the discretion of prosecuting attorneys; the defendant has no input other than to provide documentation, according to Greenberg Traurig shareholder Marvin Kirsner, who specializes in tax law.

There must be evidence to support that the payment was, in fact, paid as restitution to make a victim whole, Kirsner said in an email. I have advised colleagues who have said that government attorneys are very sensitive to this issue, and will not merely agree to identify the settlement payments as restitution, unless the documents can establish that the payment is, in fact, for the purpose of restitution.

The tax code change, however, does provide defense attorneys with an incentive to ensure that any False Claims Act settlements clearly identify any amounts that are being paid as restitution, Kirsner said. The Illinois and Delaware decisions may give policyholders another reason to avoid any settlement agreements that identify the amounts paid as disgorgement.

Busy Lawyers

The number of government False Claims Act actions has been growing over the years. In 2001 there were about 400 prosecutions; in 2020 there were more than 900, according to Justice Department statistics. The vast majority of the actions are usually initiated by whistleblowers, who can collect from 15% to 30% of the amount recovered.

The amount recovered does not necessarily follow the number of False Claims Act actions. The Justice Department recovered $2.2 billion in 2020, the least amount recovered since 2008, even though it initiated a record number of actions.

But 2020 was unusual in another way: The government initiated 250 False Claims Act actions, almost double the typical number filed each year.

Phillips, the Gibson Dunn attorney, said increased government spending during the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the Paycheck Protection Act and government grants to hospitals to treat infected patients, will likely lead to a greater number of False Claims Act prosecutions. Increased government spending being pushed by the Biden administration may also drive up the number of actions.

Phillips said the advent of litigation finance companies has led to an increase in the caliber of legal professionals that pursue whistleblower claims. Investor funding gives law firms the staying power to finance thorough investigations, he said.

He said the federal government has also learned how to better analyze its databases to mine for leads.

They see it as information that is already in their hands, so why not use it, he said.

Republished from ClaimsJournal.com.

Topics Carriers Claims Commercial Lines Business Insurance
North Carolina authorities announced Monday that a Raleigh man has been charged with falsely claiming that two Rolex watches had been stolen, an apparent ruse to gain insurance payments.

James Henry Weeks III, 47, was charged with insurance fraud and attempting to obtain property by false pretenses. Special agents with the North Carolina Department of Insurance said Weeks had attempted to obtain $8,900 from United Property & Casualty by falsely reporting that the watches had been stolen.

Weeks was released on $5,000 bond. Details about the scheme were not provided by the department.

Insurance fraud hurts consumers, Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey said in a news release. Approximately 20% of your insurance premium goes to cover the cost of fraud.

The case is strikingly similar to that of a Seattle man who was charged this month with filing a false insurance claim for a $14,750 Rolex watch he said he lost while wakeboarding. Investigators with USAA Insurance found that the man had sold his watch to a rare-coins dealer in 2020, three weeks after he filed the insurance claim.

Topics Trends Fraud Abuse Molestation
This article originally appeared in Carrier Management.

Digital home insurer Hippo hired a former Hiscox executive to be its first chief claims officer, with a mission to expand claims operations for the now publicly-traded California-based InsurTech as it grows nationally.

Grace Hanson will take on the new position as of January 2022.

Protecting the home is a passion of mine and Im excited to build on Hippos innovative successes to push the bar for customer experience in claims and take care of our customers when they need us most, Hanson said in prepared remarks.

Hippo bills itself as standing out, in part, with a personalized approach to claims as well as home insurance coverage itself. In her new role, Hanson will extend the companys use of technology and data to increase claims efficiency and ensure that customers are able to complete claims with limited effort.

Previously, Hanson was the Chief Claims Officer for Hiscox where she brought significant change to the claims function, Hippos hiring announcement notes. In her career, Hanson built deep experience with InsurTech companies as SVP Chief Claims Officer of Homesite Insurance, the first insurer to offer a fully digital homeowner product.

Hanson has a Juris Doctor, cum laude, from Tulane University, an MBA from Northeastern University, and a CPCU designation. She is also a board member of Build Change, leveraging technology and strategic differentiation to improve the structural stability of housing in emerging countries vulnerable to seismic and cyclonic risk.

Hippo, which went public in August through a special purpose acquisition company/reverse merger, lost $84.5 million in the 2021 second quarter, a sizable increase compared to the previous year due largely to heavy storms in Texas. Hippo President Richard McCathron told Carrier Management that the company will overcome this in the month ahead with more geographical and product diversification.

Hippo plans to report 2021 third quarter financial results on Nov. 10, 2021 after the markets close.

Copyright 2021 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics California Claims
Its part of just about every cannabis conversation: Hey, it looks like were close to seeing cannabis legalized. Is this the year?

There are three promising cannabis bills in Congress  two that would legalize or at least decriminalize cannabis, and one to create SAFE Banking. All three have strong support, but could they take a backseat in an essentially deadlocked government on first-in-line issues like infrastructure and spending?

In our latest Insuring Cannabis podcast, we spoke with Paul Armentano, deputy director of NORML, and Morgan Fox with the National Cannabis Industry Association, to see where these bills stand.

Following are takeaways from that conversation.

Many Republicans embrace cannabis as a jobs-creating industry, and a large share of Democrats have been for pro legalization and decriminalization for years. So, whats the hold up  beside the gridlock in Congress that is?

Well, my business card doesnt say professional prognosticator, but what I can do is give you the lay of the land and let you know what we do know, Armentano said. We know that nearly two thirds to almost 70% of Americans when asked, say that they believe that marijuana should be legal. That includes a majority of Democrats, a majority of independents, and a majority of Republicans. So we know among voters that marijuana legalization is a bipartisan issue.

Despite the seeming agreement, cannabis legalization still remains largely a partisan issue, with most Democrats in support of marijuana law reforms, including the descheduling marijuana entirely, and with the overwhelming majority of Republicans advocating and voting against those reforms.

I know there are some Republicans that give lip service to supporting marijuana policy changes, but if you look at their actions and if you look at their voting records, those speak a whole lot louder than their words, Armentano said. And right now, as a party, they are entrenched against virtually every type of marijuana policy reform legislation.

Fox spoke about the Cannabis Administration and Opportunity Act.

We got a glimpse of the draft language, I guess, in late July, Fox said. And the drafters, primarily Senate Majority Leader Schumer, and Senators Booker and Wyden, have been very engaged with stakeholders and were asking for comment from a wide variety of interested parties. And they got a significant amount of it because while there are a lot of good things in that draft language, there were a lot of things that werent necessarily thought through well enough.

Among the things not to like about CAOA, as many people refer to it, which starts at 10% and then it moves up to 25%, n top of state and local taxes.

Fox believes this tax structure will not only be a hard pill to swallow for the industry, it will make it difficult for cannabis businesses to survive, so thats a point he hopes the bill authors are willing to move on.

The Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement Act of 2021, or MORE Act, also removes marijuana from the list of scheduled substances under the Controlled Substances Act and it eliminates criminal penalties for an individual who manufactures, distributes, or possesses marijuana.

Well, I think its very possible that the House will vote on and approve the MORE Act this year, but it doesnt look like any sort of comprehensive de-scheduling and regulation bill is going to be able to get through the Senate this year, just because of the politics at play, Fox said. Democrats want something thats very robust and contains a very strong social and restorative justice provisions. Republicans are not on board with that, even the ones that are pretty staunch supporters of ending federal prohibition.

He believes watering down the bill would be required to get the 10 Republican votes to pass a filibuster in the Senate, likely stripping away some very necessary Democrat.

So I think that at this point, were really just trying to feel out where lawmakers are and see where we can compromise in terms of bigger legislation, he said.

Then theres the SAFE Banking Act  which prohibits federal banking regulators from penalizing banks for providing banking services to a legitimate cannabis-related business.

While SAFE Banking is only an incremental step, its one thats fully embraced by Armentano, whos seen pretty much nothing but baby steps for cannabis over the years anyway.

We also support SAFE Banking, he said. We believe that it is very likely that these changes at the federal level will occur incrementally. We know that there is greater bipartisan support in both chambers for SAFE Banking. The House of Representatives has passed that language on five separate occasions now. There are now nearly 40 Senate sponsors of the bill. So nearly one half of the upper chamber is on record as a co-sponsor of that language.

He believes that it is ultimately in the best interest businesses and cannabis consumers to allow the industry to have access to banking and other financial services that are now prohibited by federal law.

Passage of SAFE Banking would also put Congress in an interesting spot in which Congress amends federal laws so that the cannabis industry has access to banking, but it maintains a federal policy to keep the substance illegal.

Those two policies would be entirely inconsistent, Armentano said. So for both practical reasons and symbolic reasons, we think passage of SAFE Banking is important.
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A documentary narrated by Alec Baldwin has had its North American release postponed after the actor fatally shot a cinematographer with a prop gun on the set of a separate film.

British production company Montrose Pictures said Flint: Who Can You Trust? will no longer arrive in the US and Canada later this month.

The documentary, exploring a water crisis in Flint, Michigan, and narrated by Baldwin, was broadcast by the BBC and remains available on iPlayer.

The release of a project involving Alec Baldwin has been postponed after the actor was involved in a fatal on-set shooting (Ian West/PA)

It was supposed to arrive in cinemas in cities including Los Angeles, New York and Toronto on October 29 but those plans have been shelved.

And a fundraising campaign launched before the fatal shooting of Halyna Hutchins aiming to widen the release of Flint has also been paused.

Flints Scottish director Anthony Baxter said: Out of the deepest respect for all those affected by this terrible tragedy, we feel now is not the time to release Flint: Who Can You Trust?.

The film sheds a crucial spotlight on the ongoing plight of Flint residents because of the water disaster. However, we will now be positioning the film for release in the US at a future date.

Baldwin, 63, said he was heartbroken by the death of cinematographer Hutchins, 42, who was shot on the New Mexico set of Western film Rust on Thursday.

There has been an outpouring of grief following the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins (AP Photo/Andres Leighton)

Production on the movie has been paused while police investigate the incident.

According to court documents, an assistant director unwittingly handed Baldwin a loaded weapon and told him it was safe to use in the moments before the shooting.

Baldwins wife, Hilaria, shared a tribute to Hutchins on Instagram.

She said: My heart is with Halyna. Her husband. Her son. Their family and loved ones. And my Alec.

Its said, There are no words because its impossible to express the shock and heartache of such a tragic accident. Heartbreak. Loss. Support.

Rust director Joel Souza was also injured in the incident, but is recovering after leaving hospital.
Irish-based companies should be held legally accountable in Ireland for business operations abroad which are proven in court to be linked to human rights abuses or serious environmental damage, according to a new report.

A coalition of advocacy groups says the Irish Government has a duty to protect people in other countries by introducing new corporate accountability legislation which would hold Irish companies legally responsible for any exploitation of people, land, or environment caused by their work overseas.

Victims 'should be able to take civil action in Ireland'

The Irish Coalition on Business and Human Rights alleges that human rights violations linked to the operations of companies include forced labour, land grabs, attacks on human rights defenders, violence against women, and denial of people's fundamental rights at work.

The report said claimants in other countries should be legally entitled to take civil actions in Ireland to sue companies for damages.

The coalition says environmental damage can include deforestation, dumping of toxic waste, oil spills, unchecked CO2 emissions, and biodiversity destruction.

The report, entitled Make It Your Business, is being published today.

'Strong public support' for new ethics law

It said that a public survey, conducted by IPSOS and included in the report, finds strong public support for a new law, with 81% of Irish people believing that an Irish company acting unethically in a low-income country should be subject to regulation here in Ireland.

The report argues that voluntary practices have failed to prevent harm, and the Government has a duty to protect people by introducing new corporate accountability legislation.

By doing so they would be following the lead of France, Germany and Norway, which have brought in corporate accountability laws.

Irish firms 'linked to rights abuses and harms'

Conor ONeill, advocacy and policy officer at Christian Aid, one of the groups involved in the coalition, said: The uncomfortable truth is that many Irish companies are linked to human rights abuses and environmental harm throughout their global value chains.

Introducing corporate accountability legislation is not anti-business, its about responsible business. Our call for a stronger regulatory framework is to ensure that the pursuit for profit does not violate human rights and destroy the environment.

The CEO of Trocaire, Caoimhe de Barra said: We are witnessing horrifying abuses of human rights and severe damage to the environment in the countries where we work.
The family of a 27-year-old Dublin man who went missing in Wyoming last June is continuing the search in a bid to return his remains to Ireland.

Cian McLaughlin was hiking in the Grand Teton national park on June 8 when we went missing.

His mother Grainne McLaughlin told RTE that her son had been living in the area for the past two years and that he had dual Irish/US citizenship.

Cian was an outgoing guy who loved the outdoors, she said, adding that he worked as a snowboard instructor during the winter and as a barman during the summers.

Her son would always stop and chat to people and was loved by all his friends. He was living his life.

Ms McLauglin said Cian was well versed in the mountains having grown up going on walks with her and other family members, and knew the importance of gear and equipment.

The family believes he was on a day hike and went off-trail and, because of the melting snow, it would have been a tricky time of year.

The family arrived in the area on June 17 and within two days were told that it was a recovery operation.

I went through a huge amount of grief at that time. That was really hard, she said.

This is not a rescue, it is a recovery, but I'd like to bring him home. I know he is up there somewhere.

"I am thinking of Cian at every moment and trying to connect with him and my hope is to bring him home, to have some resolution and bring him home," Ms McLauglin said.

The family has launched a major social media campaign using the hashtag #FindCian.

His uncle, Colm O'Higgins, told RTE that they are appealing to the public for information adding that given how sociable and chatty Cian was, the family is certain he would have talked to someone that day who might remember him on the trail.

Our appeal is to anybody who was in the park around June 8 and who may have taken photos," Mr O'Higgins said.

"We are asking them to have a look at their pictures and see if there is somebody in the background. They can share them with us at bringcianhome@gmail.com or the park rangers.

A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help the McLaughlin family. Picture: GoFundMe

Grand Teton National Park chief ranger Erika Jostad said that the search for Cian would not end until he was found.

At the time he went missing 70 searchers were involved along with search dogs and aircraft and infrared imaging to narrow down the area to search.

The search wont end until we find him, Ms Jodrad said.

Tactics shift over time. We are coming towards winter and we expect the snow to fall. That will make some of the clues we are looking for a little more difficult to find.

The Dublin man is described as being six feet tall, of slim build, with dark brown, collar-length hair, facial hair and brown eyes. He also has a tattoo on his left forearm.

He was last seen wearing round, wire-rimmed sunglasses, a bucket hat, a white short sleeve t-shirt, and shorts. He was not carrying a backpack.

The GoFundMe campaign set up to help the McLaughlin family with the cost of travel, accommodation, and any contingencies, has raised more than 48,000 of its 50,000 goal to date.

Anyone with information who may have seen Mr McLaughlin is asked to contact Teton County at 888-653-000, submit a tip or email: nps_isb@nps.gov.
Ireland is one of the best for Covid vaccinations, so it is hard to comprehend why we are also topping infection tables.

The latest figures show there were 2,193 confirmed cases on Tuesday and of the 513 Covid patients in hospital, 97 are in ICU, with senior health officials voicing increasing concerns about the prevalence of the disease in Ireland.

Maybe the question is why are these rising rates still posing such a threat to the Irish health system, despite two large health budgets? In many ways, this winters looming crisis is a result of past mistakes, not solely the Covid threat.

Data tables are only a snapshot in time as the virus situation changes so rapidly, but some of the differences across Europe are stark this week.

The European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) shows Ireland has a 14-day infection rate per 100,000 of 432.84.

ECDC expert @ppentin:

From our experience with the #COVID19 pandemic, we have evidence that #PhysicalDistancing & #hygiene measures can effectively curb the spread of #flu.



This is especially important to consider in environments such as #NursingHomes and #healthcare settings. pic.twitter.com/3WTEhxfrv4  ECDC (@ECDC_EU) October 26, 2021

There are countries facing more serious threats, including Romania with a rate of 999 and Latvia at 1,256, but they also have much lower vaccine uptakes. Italy, on the other hand, has an infection rate of 60.13 per 100,000 and announced in mid-October that over 80% of adults are vaccinated.

Adviser to the Italian special commissioner for Covid-19, Guido Raisi, told Reuters the vaccinations correlate with a significant reduction in the circulation of the virus and a drastic cut in hospital admissions".

This was the pathway the Irish public was expecting. But hindsight shows while cases stopped spiralling upwards in late summer  giving us a sense of relief  they did not drop very low.

Read More Difficult to say how high Covid figures will go in coming weeks, warns immunologist

Health Protection Surveillance Centre data shows well over half of the 68 regions are reporting positive for Covid-19 over the last 11 weeks. This weeks warnings have centred on the unvaccinated, who make up a disproportionately high percentage of severely ill Covid patients.

Up to the weekend, 283,000 adults were not fully vaccinated or fewer than 8% of adults, Professor Brian MacCraith, chair of the Vaccine Taskforce, said. Only three other European countries have more than 90% of adults vaccinated, ECDC data shows, so we should be in a good place.

The booster campaign is already rolling out and protecting vulnerable people, although it is not yet clear how often this might need to be given. Bizarrely, though, vulnerable people including cancer patients cannot get a booster at walk-in clinics, according to the HSE, but must wait for a call from their GP or hospital.

The growing emphasis from Nphet (National Public Health Emergency Team) is on using the Covid pass and walking out of places that do not require this safety measure.

This appears to be working in Italy where a vaccine is needed for bars and even theme parks. France with a similar policy also has a lower infection rate at 92.09 per 100,000 with an 80% vaccination rate.

Despite this, and perhaps surprisingly, both countries recently introduced compulsory vaccination for some jobs. Ireland has not needed to impose that threat yet, and walk-in clinics are still open while some maternity hospitals now offer on-site jabs.

Last winter Covid on its own almost swamped the system. This winter will bring other viruses as well, along with catching up on treatment missed during the pandemic and the cyberattack.

So the question remains: will patients see the benefit of the huge investments in health in time or will Covid continue to highlight other deficiencies?
Nicola Sturgeon has announced almost 500 million of further funding to help in the fight against Covid  as she warned that the Cop26 international climate conference inevitably poses a risk of increased transmission of the virus.

With delegates from across the world now starting to arrive in Scotland ahead of the UN climate summit, the Scottish First Minister said the coronavirus situation remained fragile.

While cases in Scotland had been declining, Ms Sturgeon said this had now levelled off, with the most recent figures showing a slight increase.

She stressed mitigations were being put in place around the Cop26 summit  but that no new restrictions across Scotland were currently necessary.

Thousands of delegates from across the globe will take part in the Cop26 climate summit in Glasgow, which gets underway on Sunday (Jane Barlow/PA)

Ms Sturgeon said hosting the global summit in Glasgow would always have been a significant challenge  but said the pandemic made it even more challenging.

She stated: It is inevitably the case that it poses a risk of increased Covid transmission.

But the First Minister added: I want to assure Parliament and the public, that the Scottish Government has been working closely with the United Nations and the UK Government to mitigate these risks as far as possible.

Her comments came as she pledged an additional 482 million for health boards and other bodies to help them cope with the ongoing impact of the pandemic.

The cash comes as the NHS continues to come under pressure, with Scotlands accident and emergency departments having just recorded their worst ever waiting times figures.

A total of 136 million more cash has been earmarked for Covid vaccines, with 121 million going to the Test and Protect contact tracing system.

The remainder of the money will cover costs such as additional staffing for hospitals, as well as equipment and maintenance.

Ms Sturgeon said: The pressures on the NHS are a reminder that Covid continues to be a threat  to our individual health and wellbeing, and to the capacity of our health and care services.

She called for a renewed effort to tackle the virus, saying that continued high compliance with existing mitigations and protections is so vitally important.

Her comments came after she said Scotland had seen a slight increase of about 2% in cases in the past few days.

Scotland has recorded 20 coronavirus-linked deaths and 2,262 new cases in the past 24 hours, she said.

This takes the death toll in Scotland under this daily measure, of people who first tested positive for the virus within the previous 28 days, to 9,072.

The daily test positivity rate is 11.5%, up from 10.3% the previous day.

Ms Sturgeon said this was not a surge of new cases as seen in late August, but added: We cannot, and should not, ignore the fact that case numbers have started to creep up again.

There were 917 people in hospital on Monday with recently confirmed Covid-19, a rise of 15 in the past 24 hours, with 59 in intensive care, up from 57.

So far, 4,309,932 people have received their first dose of a Covid-19 vaccination and 3,897,133 have received a second dose.

Ms Sturgeon added that vaccination appointments for all 12- to 15-year-olds have now been scheduled, with over half (53%) of this age group having had a dose.
Burma 1,000 Flee Myanmar Junta Artillery Strikes

A family flees Mobye in Shan State on Sunday after the town was bombarded by junta forces. / John Alben

Around 1,000 residents of southern Shan State were forced to flee their homes in the town of Mobye on Sunday, after the Myanmar military launched artillery strikes following an intense firefight with civilian resistance forces, according to the Mobye Rescue Team.

A woman was killed by the artillery fire and two young children injured, among other civilian casualties.

The bombardment of Mobye came after at least 10 junta soldiers were killed early Sunday morning, when a combined group of civilian fighters from the Mobye Peoples Defense Force (M-PDF) and the Karenni Nationalities Defense Force ambushed five military vehicles carrying around 50 junta soldiers at 7am at the entrance to Mobye Town in Pekon Township, Shan State.

Regime troops from Battalion 422, which is based outside the town, responded by arbitrarily firing over ten artillery shells at residential areas of Mobye.

A 44-year-old woman was killed by the artillery strikes and five civilians, including a three-year-old girl and a nine-year-old boy, were injured, according to M-PDF and the Mobye Rescue Team.

Two of the injured civilians are in critical condition. All are being treated in a safe place, a member of the Mobye Rescue Team told The Irrawaddy on Tuesday.

Some 1,000 residents from the areas of the town hit by artillery fire fled into the forest or to join their relatives in nearby villages and townships. Despite the fighting stopping, none of the people who fled have returned home yet, according to a local resident speaking on Tuesday.

Mobyes remaining population of around 24,000 people are concerned about the potential for future clashes due to tensions running high between junta troops and civilian resistance groups. But most residents are staying in the town, as they have to harvest crops from their farms in the coming weeks.

In late May, around three-quarters of Mobyes population had to escape the town for a month following intense firefights between military regime soldiers and civilian fighters in Pekon Township and townships in neighboring Kayah State.

A month later in June, junta troops destroyed supplies of rice and medicine that were intended for over 3,000 internally displaced people in Pekon. They had also been forced to leave their homes after heavy clashes in the surrounding area.

Regime forces bombarded the mountain-top town of Thantlang in Chin State in late September, forcing the entire population of around 9,000 residents to flee. The artillery strikes destroyed 19 houses in the town and followed clashes between junta soldiers and ethnic Chin resistance forces that left the regime side with some 30 casualties.

Military regime troops also continue to commit atrocities, including raiding and burning down villages and arbitrarily killing civilians, in Myanmars most restive regions such as Sagaing and Magwe and Chin and Kayah States.

At the same time, with the exception of Rakhine State, junta forces nationwide are facing an increasing number of attacks from PDFs and ethnic armed groups, including the Kachin Independence Army, the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army and the armed wings of the Karen National Union and the Karenni National Progressive Party.



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Burma Myanmar Regime Shuns ASEAN Summit, Citing Limited Participation

Myanmar coup leader Min Aung Hlaing (left) arrives in Jakarta for the ASEAN Summit in April. / ASEAN

The Myanmar military regime has turned down ASEANS conditional invitation to its summit, insisting it can only accept the participation of the head of state or a ministerial-level representative, rather than a nonpolitical one as ASEAN has suggested.

As a result, there will be no representative from Myanmar in attendance when the 10-member group of Southeast Asian nations holds its three-day summit starting from today via videoconference. The meeting will be joined by US President Joe Biden and the leaders of China and Russia.

While such high-level meetings are normally joined by heads of the state, Myanmars regime leader Min Aung Hlaing was barred from the summit by ASEAN last week for his failure to implement agreements with the regional bloc, and a permanent secretary was invited instead. ASEAN has been trying to mediate Myanmars post-coup political turmoil and in April reached a consensus calling on the regime to cease using violence and to allow a special envoy to visit the country, among other steps.

Min Aung Hlaings exclusion from the summit comes as a big blow for the junta as it desperately seeks official recognition from other countriesespecially those in ASEANas Myanmars rightful government. The regime faces a contesting claim for recognition by the National Unity Government (NUG) formed by elected lawmakers from the ousted National League for Democracy (NLD) and their ethnic allies. At the same time, the regime is regarded as an outcast by much of the international community, especially in the West, for its coup and subsequent brutality in killing over 1,000 peaceful anti-regime protesters.

The countrys Ministry of Foreign Affairs complained in a statement on Monday that downgrading the level of the participant and limiting their role in the summits discussions was not in line with the ASEAN Charter or the groups procedures and precedent, adding that the Myanmar representative was being denied the rights enjoyed by other ASEAN member states.

Myanmar can accept the participation of Head of State or Head of Government or his Ministerial level representative at the upcoming 38th and 39th ASEAN Summits and Related Summits to be held from 26 October to 28 October 2021, the statement reads.

ASEAN special envoy Erywan Yusof of Brunei has been trying to visit the country since last month. He asked the regime for permission to meet all stakeholders, including the countrys detained leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and ousted President U Win Myint, during his tou, but the junta rejected the request, stating that both leaders now face charges. The tussle between the regime and special envoy went on for some time with no resolution, prompting ASEAN to decide last week to shun Min Aung Hlaing from the summit.

The junta has responded bitterly to its leaders exclusion, issuing a series of announcements. In its previous statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it was very disappointed with ASEANs decision to exclude Min Aung Hlaing from the summit and condemned the move. The coup leader said the regional blocs special envoy made requests that were impossible to accommodate.



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Burma Suu Kyi Testifies Against Myanmar Juntas Incitement Charges

State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi briefs the public in Dec. 2019.

Detained State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi has testified for the first time since the Feb. 1 coup at a court in Naypyitaw on Tuesday.

However, details of her testimony are unknown as Myanmars junta barred her legal team from speaking to the media about the trial.

The junta imposed gagging orders against all five of Daw Aung San Suu Kyis lawyers, also barring them from speaking to foreign diplomats or international organizations directly and indirectly.

The order against chief lawyer U Khin Maung Zaw came after he gave details of President U Win Myints testimony, where he said the military threatened him to make him resign during the coup. The president said he refused the demand.

The presidents account of his detention confirmed the illegality of the coup and was widely reported internationally.

Another of Daw Aung San Suu Kyis lawyers who regularly spoke to the media was barred three days before the 76-year-olds testimony.

The junta said the lawyers could destabilize the country through their comments to the media. The move was seen as showing the regimes fear of the ongoing influence of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and U Win Myint.

Both leaders have been held in undisclosed locations since the coup. Her legal team has been the only source of information on the trials and the leaders well-being while also relaying the leaders messages.

On Tuesday, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi denied the charges of incitement. U Win Myint and the mayor of Naypyitaw, Dr. Myo Aung, are co-defendants in the trial.

The incitement charge against the three was brought over statements released by the National League for Democracy urging the public to resist the regime, on Feb. 7 and Feb. 13, while all three were in captivity.

Lawyers and legal analysts condemned the gagging orders as an illegal violation of a fundamental judicial right to an open trial.

U Khin Maung Myint, a legal adviser, recently told The Irrawaddy: Citizens have the right to see, know and hear that every stage of the trial is fair and legal. By prohibiting lawyers from informing the public about trials, the administrative branch is exerting influence over the judicial branch. It is a very disgraceful and ugly act.

Daw Aung San Suu Kyi chose not to call any witnesses so as not to endanger anyone else.

The junta has brought 11 charges against Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, which carry up to 102 years in prison.



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Burma Thai Foreign Policy at a Low Point, Experts Say

Experts discuss Thai foreign policy / Thai PBS

Thailand still has opportunities to rejuvenate its foreign policy and diplomacy, which have fallen to their lowest point in living memory, despite the need to play a role amid intense superpower rivalry and geopolitical disorder, a panel of experts said.

Words such as go with the flow, missing in action, excessive defensiveness, lacking backbone, lack of narrative, inferiority complex and inward looking nationalism were the way Thailands foreign policy was described by webinar panelists.

Myanmar, human rights values, geographical advantages, alongside unique past relations with the superpowers, were cited as among the opportunities for Thailand to seize and re-ignite its foreign policy, said the panelists at a recent webinar Thai Foreign Policy and Diplomatic Strategy, moderated by Thepchai Yong of Thai PBS World.

This is the first of a five week series of webinars on Thai foreign policy, co-hosted by the Surin Pitsuwan Foundation, Chiang Mai Universitys School of Public Policy, Thai PBS and Asia News Network.

Sihasak Phuangketkeow, former permanent secretary for foreign affairs, said good foreign policy must begin at home with strong domestic politics and a vibrant economy. My concern is whether we have limited ourselves with neither a position nor a strategy.

The most pressing challenge, according to him, would be how foreign policy can be mobilized to aid economic recovery after the COVID-19 pandemic. We have embassies, counselors and otherswe should use these mechanisms. Foreign policy must meet these issues.

Thitinan Pongsudhirak, professor and director of the Institute of Security and International Studies at Chulalongkorn Universitys Faculty of Political Science, said Thailand has diminished in global diplomatic importance. Whatever diplomatic capital the country may have had, it was used to explain why the coup happened and then when the elections would be held.

He also sensed that we have been evasive because we feel inferior and not only because of the ongoing domestic political conflicts, but questions over government legitimacy remain. Such an inferiority complex makes our foreign policy and diplomacy swing out of line.

Kiat Sittheeamorn, Democrat Party MP and member of the House committee on foreign affairs, said the world has changed but we havent.

The House Committee set up a sub-committee and I am chairman. We look at all issues and invite everybody to participate. We found that we dont have a clear foreign policy strategy and have to redefine what our interests are. The world has changed a lot and we have become unusually silent.

He added that the geopolitical balance has shifted with China, for example, but Thailand never attempts to gain a deep understanding as to what this could mean to the country, the region or what position and strategy should be adopted. We havent done the homework. We have talented people, we have brains, but they dont sit down and talk with one another.

We didnt ask the right questions, so we got wrong answers, he lamented.

Pita Limjaroenrat, leader of Thailands Move Forward Party, said the Foreign Ministry will reach its 150th anniversary in 2025, but the countrys foreign policy has no backbone at a time of world disorder.

This has meant that the US, Thailands oldest ally, bypassed the country when the Biden administration began and Vice President Kamala Harris went to Singapore instead, to talk about AI and cyber security, and to Vietnam to talk about the South China Sea.

I remember the old saying Foreign policy which has no positioning will have nowhere to stand in the world, said Pita.

Ora-Orn Poocharoen, Director of the School of Public Policy at Chiang Mai University, saw the malaise as part of a major trend towards a declining nation state and the Thai tradition of centralization.

She said, however, that the pillars of foreign policy should be emancipated and allowed to blossom, such as in business, civil society and scholars with a sense of belonging to the world, if the centralization can be dismantled and global humanities recognised.

Myanmar

Myanmar is cited as a prime example where Thailand, both as the frontline and its history as bridge builder, can reassert its foreign policy position and align its values with the Myanmar people by achieving peace, stability and security.

Kiat was critical of the Thai governments response to the Myanmar crisis.

We present ourselves as though we have no values with respect to human rights. Its unacceptable and its not about non-interference, as a line has been crossed.

I am uncomfortable [presently] because we dont have a strategy. We look only at immediate interests and issues and we dont want to think ahead to how peace, stability and progress can be achieved. What we must do is to make more effort as we are frontline state, Sihasak said.

We must think like a frontline state and lead, not be led, and lead ASEAN. It is discreet diplomacy. We have channels through the military and to the opposition. Why dont we use them? It may not be easy, because the Tatmadaw [Myanmars military] want to hold on to power, but we have to convince and apply pressure.

We need to do more and exercise leadership. Its an opportunity to show that Thailand matters, he added.

Kiat added that Thailand should gather all countries willing to help and not just criticize or impose sanctions. There are opportunities to work with Russia and China and the later has already given positive signs.

Pita called for Thailand to take a lead in establishing a humanitarian corridor which does not involve the military of either country.

Thitinan said ASEAN faces grave unity challenges on the Myanmar crisis. Some members have condemned the coup,while some are reluctant. Thailand is trying to evade the issue, with the government having little to say about how the Myanmar coup was wrong.

He suggested that even the Thai and Myanmar armies could do something and find a way to make Myanmar domestic politics acceptable to the international community. Such diplomacy we can do, but we are caught in our own trap. Domestically we dont want people to know us, or others to get involved with us because of the weaknesses we evade, hiding and letting the problems pass, but they dont.

Ora-orn suggested that, apart from basic necessities to support the growing number of displaced persons in Myanmar, Thailand must help scholars, academics, researchers, civil societies and students who have lost their places to continue their work and their capacity building in the medium term.

Opportunities

Thitinan suggested that Thai foreign policy has sunk to its lowest point, through a mixture of a hybrid military regime and widening bureaucratic rule, under which everything is administered in the name or excuse of security.

He called on the military people turned politicians to decouple their political roles and allow professionals to run the country, as in past coups. In foreign policy, Thailand still has the advantage of its geography, critical mass and balanced and agile relations with the superpowers.

Pita said Thailand has opportunities to reassert its foreign policy and diplomacy with the upcoming chairs of Bimstec, APEC and ASEAN.

If we have the narrative, backbone, strategy political leadership and know our values and interests, we could use all three occasions to re-emerge.

He outlined offensive diplomacy in terms of blue, white green and white where Thailand can engage and take leadership in maritime, environment and health, respectively. We can re-engage, we have opportunities and capability.

Wish lists

Pita said that, if Thailand can grow a foreign policy backbone, regarding both values and interests, there will be a narrative which the country can use to develop a true presence in the global arena.

So far, however, the country is missing in action, we lost balance and many allies, like the US, and became entangled in unbalanced relationships with some of our neighbors, such as China. How can we pivot back to the US and EU, to upgrade our human rights standards and engage with blue, green and white diplomacy in the 3 upcoming big events? he asked.

Ora-orn said nationalism and national interests are merging into global interests. Thais must be part of the planetary benefits and,if we are too parochial we will not be seen as either authentic or sincere by our partners.

Thitinan said the Thai political class needs to correct and reconcile the past two decades of domestic conflict and move into a new phase. This would entail re-engaging with the superpowers by using diplomatic capital to balance and uplift the bargaining power.

Beyond that, our strategy should be to become a middle superpower, but one which is reconciled with a position and with our people having the power to set their own destiny, not from the top down.

Sihasak said, while Thai diplomacy has gone off the radar, as diplomats we are optimistic, but we have to get away from present mindset, which limits us, and have positions. Values are important and are something which can aide in international relations. If we are realistic and position ourselves well, we can make a return.

Kiat summed up by saying that Thais should be key players and stakeholders in international diplomacy. We should be global, in tune, modern. By the people and for the people.

Episode 2 on COVID-19, health and vaccine diplomacy takes place on Thursday, Oct. 28th at 10.30 a.m. Webinar registration at www.thaipbs.or.th/Register

This article first was first published by Thai PBS.



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Burma Veteran Diplomat Noeleen Heyzer Appointed UN Special Envoy to Myanmar

Noeleen Heyzer, in her capacity as special adviser to the UN secretary-general for Timor-Leste (left), and then UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2014. / UN Photo / Eskinder Debeb

A former under-secretary-general of the United Nations who had warm relations with Myanmars previous regime and their proxy government has been appointed as the new United Nations special envoy on Myanmar.

On Monday, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced the appointment of Noeleen Heyzer as the successor to Christine Schraner Burgener, who was appointed in 2018 when the post was first created, mainly to tackle the Rohingya Muslim issue in Rakhine State in western Myanmar, in partnership with the countrys government.

The newly appointed 73-year-old Singporean will not only inherit the main mission but also her predecessors failed task of trying to persuade Myanmar junta leaders to engage in dialogue to settle the ongoing political and social turmoil caused by the coup in February.

At a press conference last week, the outgoing Schraner Burgener said the regime would not be ready for compromise because they didnt react to her proposal for dialogue.

Im sure my successor will try to do the best, she said.

Trained as a social scientist, Heyzer has also served as the UN secretary-generals adviser for Timor-Leste to support peace-building and sustainable development.

As a former head of the UNs Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP), Heyzer is no stranger to Myanmar. She visited the country several times under the previous military regime, which ruled Myanmar until March 2011, and knows well the poverty endured by many in the Southeast Asian country. She was also a supporter of the countrys transition to democracy, which was halted by the coup.

When the then regime was reluctant to allow international relief assistance in the wake of Cyclone Nargis, which wreaked havoc in the countrys Irrawaddy Delta area in 2008, killing more than 130,000 people, the then head of ESCAP was also involved in getting aid delivered to those in need by organizing a post-Nargis recovery conference in Bangkok.

After the then junta released Myanmars popular democracy leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi from house arrest in late 2010, the UN official stepped up her dialogue with the generals for the sake of the countrys development, telling them, We can bring the best minds here to work with you, according to Thant Myint-U latest book The Hidden History of Burma.

Then she invited Nobel Prize-winning US economist Joseph Stiglitz to Myanmar to hold a talk for civil society representatives and government officials, including then Prime Minister U Thein Sein, who would become the countrys president a few months later in the regimes proxy government. Thant Myint-U served as an adviser to President Thein Sein.

Heyzer has good relations with Daw Aung Sun Suu Kyis National League for Democracy (NLD). When the news of her would-be appointment as the special envoy circulated, some elected lawmakerssince ousted by the coupwelcomed it, expressing hope that she would be able to break the political impasse.



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Commentary ASEAN Acknowledges Illegality of Myanmars Military Coup

ASEAN leaders join the 38th ASEAN Summit via videoconference on Tuesday. / Thai Foreign Ministry

It took 17 years to draft and promulgate Myanmars pro-military constitution. Blatantly undemocratic, the 2008 charter guaranteesfor a startthat 25 percent of the seats in the countrys Union Parliament are reserved for military personnel.

Drafted by a previous unelected military junta with the help of some ethnic representatives and forced through a deeply flawed referendum process in 2008, the constitution enshrines a political system that is designed to preserve the generals power.

The charter ensures that the military retains a powerful role not only in the executive branch of government but also in many aspects of national politics.

Aside from its unelected representatives occupying a quarter of parliamentary seats, the military is guaranteed control of three security-related ministries: Defense, Home Affairs and Border Affairs.

Among the powers constitutionally granted to the military is the authority to take charge during a state of emergency. One power the constitution does not give the commander-in-chief, however, is the right to stage a coup against an elected government.

The constitution states that the President has the executive power to declare a state of emergency, after consulting and coordinating with the military-dominated National Defense and Security Council (NDSC).

In fact, there was a time when critics of the undemocratic charter said it was so pro-military that it made the prospect of another military coup highly unlikely.

How wrong they were.

Alleging that last Novembers general election was marred by large-scale election fraud, the military staged a coup on Feb. 1, invoking Article 417 of the constitution and declaring a state of emergency.

Article 417 requires the President to declare a state of emergency when there is a risk to the sovereignty of the country.

Article 418 then requires the President to hand over all power to the Commander-in-Chief of Defense Services.

Contrary to this provision, in February the state of emergency was declared by the vice-president, U Myint Swe, soon after the military detained President U Win Myint.

The constitutions Article 73 (a) states that one of the two vice presidentsthe one who won the second-highest number of votes in the presidential electionshall serve as Acting President if the office of the President falls vacant due to his resignation, death, permanent disability or any other reason.

However, given the then presidents refusal to resign, its hard to say that Article 73 provides valid support for U Myint Swes acting presidency, let alone the coup.

On the morning of the coup, President U Win Myint and State Counselor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi were arrested and several government ministers were detained. Since then, U Myint Swe has disappeared from public view and has been absent from official functions.

In April, when Min Aung Hlaing flew to Jakarta to attend a special ASEAN meeting, he told leaders from the regional bloc that the military had constitutionally assumed the states responsibilities. He was lying.

In reality, the coup in Myanmar can be regarded as unconstitutional, since there was no legal rationale for it. Therefore, the declaration of a state of emergency was unlawful, as was the takeover.

The West and ASEAN likely share the same opinion on the legality of the coup in Myanmar, which is that military chief Senior General Min Aung Hlaing and his generals breached the constitution and seized power illegally.

Members of ASEAN, including Brunei, the current chair of the bloc, have expressed doubt that the coup was legal since the turmoil erupted in Myanmar early this year.

Further proof that their doubt is justified came early this month, when Myanmars ousted civilian President U Win Myint said while giving testimony in his court trial that senior army officers ordered him to resign on the day of the coup, but he told them he would rather die than consent.

On the morning of the takeover, two high-ranking army officers entered his room at the Presidential Residence in Naypyitaw and attempted to persuade him to resign from his post on grounds of ill health, his lawyer quoted him as telling the court.

The President turned down their proposal, saying he was in good health.

The officers warned him the denial would cause him much harm but the President told them he would rather die than consent, said lawyer U Khin Maung Zaw.

A lawyer said, The President has notified the entire nation as well as the world, through the court, that the takeover violates the Constitution.

It is the strongest evidence that they [military leaders] committed high treason as [it comes from] the head of state himself, he said.

U Win Myints testimony offers proof, if it was needed, that the coup was illegal. The testimony justified the decision by ASEAN and chair Brunei to exclude the coup leader from its summit starting today.

The message is clear: Snr-Gen Min Aug Hlaing has no legal right to represent Myanmar at an ASEAN Summit. ASEAN instead invited a non-political person to attend. The regime turned down the invitation, however, saying it can only accept the participation of the head of state or a ministerial-level representative.

The countrys seat at the summit today is empty.



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Were working to cover how COVID-19 is affecting our region. Tell us your story.

Have you or someone close to you been monitored, quarantined or tested  and can you share about the process? Are you a medical professional dealing with this who wants to share your experience and needs at this time? Are you a student or worker affected by closures? Are there questions you have about the coronavirus and COVID-19 response that havent been answered? We want to hear about your experience.

We understand this is a sensitive and private issue and we are willing to protect your identity if you request it.
COMPANY NEWS: Snowflake, the data cloud company, today announced the winners of the annual Data Drivers Awards for Asia Pacific, the premier data awards that honour Snowflake customers leading their organisations and transforming their industries with the data cloud.

Winners of the annual Data Drivers Awards include data leaders from private and government sector enterprises across the region which are using Snowflake's data cloud to innovate, grow, and delight their customers. They include Byju's, Canva, Eyeota, Fortescue, Philippines Department of Information and Communications Technology, and Wesfarmers.

Also announced today are the Data Drivers Awards finalists from around the region including Amber Electric, Deputy, DHL Express, Flybuys, Freight Tiger, KFC Australia, Kmart Australia, Khatabook, and Vodafone.

"We're constantly impressed by how Snowflake customers throughout the Asia Pacific region are driving innovation in Snowflake's data cloud as part of their ambition to unlock data and support new business opportunities," said Snowflake Asia Pacific vice president of sales Peter O'Connor. "We congratulate this year's Data Drivers Awards winners and finalists, and look forward to working with them as well as with all our customers to enable them to continue to power ahead and collaborate across the data economy in the years ahead."

Canva, headquartered in Sydney, won the Data Driver of the Year award. This top award category honours an organisation that epitomises what it means to be data-driven.

Canva head of data platforms Greg Roodt said "We now have more than a petabyte of data in Snowflake, thousands of datasets and many machine learning models trained on data from Snowflake. Not only has the demand for data increased dramatically, we've also had such a positive experience that this has led us to explore using Snowflake for more use-cases."

Other APAC Data Drivers Awards winners are:

 Philippines Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) won the Data For Good Award for using enhanced data analytics to support the logistics of importing, distributing, administering, and monitoring vaccines for the country's 110 million citizens. Snowflake's data cloud has enabled the DICT to provide an efficient and reliable single unified view of vaccine data to the organisations that need them most thereby helping to extend, and improve lives and keep the citizenry safe.

 Wesfarmers, headquartered in Australia, earned the Data Sharing Leaders Award in recognition of revolutionising data as a strategic business asset, and transforming the business through easily and securely sharing live, governed data with customers and business partners.

 Eyeota, the data transformation company headquartered in Singapore, was recognised with the Powered By Award for building the most innovative data-driven applications on Snowflake. Eyeota CTO Anand Das said "Snowflake has enhanced our reporting, analytics, and data science capabilities to better serve our global clients with addressable data solutions to reach their best customers, grow their business, and enrich marketing strategies."

 Prakash Ramachandran, Bangalore-based CTO at Byju's took home the Data Executive of The Year Award for serving as the strategic leader, pioneering cloud data analytics within the organisation and breaking new ground in the industry. Ramachandran said "Snowflake has empowered the business with faster reporting and the seamless onboarding of newly acquired products. We now have a reliable and scalable data platform for years to come with Snowflake providing a simplified and governed SQL based platform which enables our business team to collaborate more."

 Cadi Lee, analytics platform lead at Perth-based Fortescue, took home the Data Hero of The Year Award for pioneering use of the data cloud in the organisation. Lee said "Data is critical. It allows us to gain insight and make critical decisions. Snowflake, as a new generation data platform, has been a tremendous accelerator for Fortescue. As the heart of our Data Platform, it has enabled us to continue to innovate, empower our people and reach our stretch targets."

About Snowflake

Snowflake enables every organisation to mobilise their data with Snowflake's data cloud. Customers use the data cloud to unite siloed data, discover and securely share data, and execute diverse analytic workloads. Wherever data or users live, Snowflake delivers a single data experience that spans multiple clouds and geographies. Thousands of customers across many industries, including 212 of the 2021 Fortune 500 as of 31 July 2021, use Snowflake data cloud to power their businesses. Learn more at snowflake.com.
COMPANY NEWS: Platform provider for Kubernetes Operations Rafay Systems is planning to open source its Zero-Trust Access and GitOps services.

This will allow developers to capitalise and contribute to these services that reduce complexities associated with securing access to and automating the ongoing operations of Kubernetes infrastructure and applications. These two services are the first of many that Rafay Systems intends to open source over time.

According to the 2020 Cloud Native Foundation Report, 92% of respondents were reported using containers in productiona 300% surge from just 23% in the first survey of March 2016.

In addition, 91% of respondents report using Kubernetes, 83% of them in production. This continues to increase from 78% in 2019 and 58% in 2018.

As Kubernetes has become a priority for enterprises, access to infrastructure and configuration management has proven to be a challenge, particularly when leveraging multiple clouds or operating multiple virtual private clouds (VPCs) in the same cloud environment.

Enterprises are also finding it difficult to enforce repeatable workflows for managing the ongoing operations of Kubernetes infrastructure and applications. With the Zero-Trust Access and GitOps services available as open source projects, developers can address multi-tenant access and automation requirements.

Developers can also collaborate with project contributors to further advance on-premises, hybrid, multi-cloud, and edge use cases.

As a member of the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF), we are extremely excited to deepen our engagement with the open source community, explains Rafay Systems CEO Haseeb Budhani.

By open sourcing Zero-Trust Access and GitOps services, we are doing our part in furthering the communitys goals of making cloud-native computing ubiquitous. We look forward to the community embracing these projects, and are eager to engage with developers and DevOps professionals who are open to partnering with the current cadre of contributors focused on accelerating Kubernetes adoption in enterprises, enthuses Budhani.

Zero-Trust Access Service

Security issues have been a common theme for Kubernetes. In 2020, large companies experienced security breaches via their Kubernetes infrastructure.

Rafays Zero-Trust Access service enables controlled, audited access for developers, SREs and automation systems to Kubernetes infrastructure, with just-in-time service account creation and user-level credentials management, and can easily be integrated with an enterprises in-place RBAC/SSO solution.

By powering access to Kubernetes infrastructure, Rafays Zero-Trust Access service includes:

Centralises access control to entire fleets of Kubernetes clusters, regardless of where the user or system seeking access is located

Secures kubectl access to all clusters with integrated enterprise RBAC/SSO

Ensures compliance with internal security policies and industry regulations

Provides immutable audit trails of all user and system access

GitOps Service

GitOps is an approach to continuous deployment (CD) that leverages Git as a single source of truth for both infrastructure and applications. By being declarative, it provides for better standardisation, enhanced security, and improved productivity.

With Rafays GitOps Service, enterprises can:

Programmatically construct multi-stage pipelines for both applications and clusters

Fully automate deployments and remove error prone, manual steps

Guarantee that the desired state specified in your Git repos are instantly enforced on Kubernetes clusters

Implement controls enabling developers and operations teams to collaborate delivering modern applications faster without sacrificing enterprise-level governance

Modern infrastructure deserves modern approaches to technical challenges. Managing Kubernetes at scale is not only becoming more challenging and onerous, but also comes with great risk, concludes Rafay Systems senior vice president of engineering and operations Hemanth Kavuluru. Were always looking for new ways to automate infrastructure and application deployments with security and access control in mind. We look forward to sharing these technical capabilities with the developers and are excited to see how far we can extend these services in partnership with the cloud-native community.

Rafay is a member of the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) and is a Certified Kubernetes Service Provider.
GUEST RESEARCH: Nitro Software, a global document productivity software company accelerating digital transformation in organisations around the world, today released its 2022 Productivity Report, which explores how the pandemic has transformed productivity, workflows and digital initiatives, as well as the trends and technologies shaping work in 2022 and beyond.

The report builds on findings from the 2020 Nitro Productivity Report, which was published in late 2019, and explores how pre-pandemic working habits have evolved over the past year and a half. Nitro partnered with Qualtrics in April 2021 to survey 600 full- and part-time knowledge workers and 140 business leaders across the United States, United Kingdom, Germany and Australia on the top challenges faced during the pandemic, changing workflows and digital needs.

The research shows that while there is some desire to return to the office, most employees want to continue working from home in some capacity and expect employers to offer remote work options post-pandemic. According to the report, 46% of knowledge workers plan to work remotely more frequently even after the pandemic ends, and 71% feel extremely or very prepared to work from home long-term.

"Working remotely over an extended period has given employees more control over their workdays and more flexibility generally over their lives than ever before," said Nitro COO Gina O'Reilly.

"Without commutes and the need to be in an office 9-to-5/Monday-Friday, employees can now largely dictate their own schedules  adapting to the needs of their families, taking time out for self-care, managing life's day-to-day task list, etc.  all while getting their work done. At Nitro, we announced a Flexible Forever policy last year that we think offers the best of both worlds  virtual-first with in-person time where and when it's most valuable and we believe this kind of approach is what employees will most appreciate in a post-pandemic world."

Working from home not only offered more flexibility during the pandemic, but also lowered stress levels and improved overall employee happiness. The Nitro report found that in 2020, the number of workers feeling moderately stressed dropped by 12%, and job satisfaction increased by 6%. Additionally, those who reported no stress at all rose by 66%. This was despite the amount of work that now takes place outside the traditional 6:00 am  6:00 pm window doubling to 20%.

Additional highlights from the report include several findings around the evolution of how we work and the importance of having access to the most appropriate tools and solutions to be as productive and efficient as possible:

 Remote work paved the way for paperless. In early 2020, global printing declined by 52% and that trend continued into 2021. 50% of respondents say they're using physical documents and paper-based processes less since the start of the pandemic.

 Document processes are still inefficient in 2021. 44% of respondents say they are collaborating on documents more since the start of COVID-19. However, 83% say the way their company handled documents had not improved significantly during the pandemic.

 Digital transformation plans have accelerated. 86% of business leaders say COVID-19 accelerated the need for digital transformation. Plans for digital initiatives are now expected to take place within the next two years.

 IT budgets are increasing. Eight out of 10 business leaders say IT budgets increased between 10% and 14% from 2020, and two in 10 say it increased more than 25%.

 Digital document workflows are more important than ever. More workers today are using an eSignature solution than they were pre-pandemic in 2019, which at the time was only 12%. And nearly half of workers say they would be somewhat or much more productive with either an eSignature or PDF solution.

"If the pandemic taught us anything, it's that people can do their jobs and be productive from anywhere and the companies that evaluate and value productivity and outcomes over hours worked will ultimately be the ones that attract and retain the world's best talent," said O'Reilly.

"Employees will also need the right remote work environments and optimised digital tools and support to be successful and productive over the long-term, but we believe this is an exciting opportunity for companies to tackle this head-on and transform the way they work for good."

To read the full 2022 Nitro Productivity Report, please visit https://www.gonitro.com/library/productivity-report-2022.
Chinese smartphone maker OPPO has used the observance of Get Online Week to host a tech training session for older Australians in the Gold Coast, in partnership with seniors training company BasicTech.

In a statement, the company said it had donated a number of handsets as raffle prizes and also for training.

The company said the 2021 Australian Digital Inclusion Index had shown those over 75 were most at risk of being digitally excluded.

The 75+ subgroup scored the lowest in the 2021 ADII with an average ADII score of 47.7, which is 23.6 points below the national average. Those aged between 65 and 74 scored marginally higher at 57.3.

However, on the plus side, the ADII showed digital inclusion was getting better. Between 2020 and 2021, the total scores of 65-74-year-olds increased by 3.9 points, and 75+ year-olds increased by 6.1 points.

"OPPO was thrilled to be involved in Get Online Week and actively participate in helping to bridge the digital divide," said OPPO Australia managing director Michael Tran.

"This is particularly important for our seniors in the community who may not have the digital skills to stay connected in a pandemic world of video calls and QR codes.

"At OPPO, we have a large focus on making innovative technology accessible to all and as a result we have a wide range of devices on the market that are suited to a variety of different wants and needs.

"Our A Series devices in particular are a popular choice for Australian seniors. All our smartphones not only come with the charger in the box but also a protective case and a screen protector already on the screen.

"This commitment to addressing the needs of many is why we believe OPPO was awarded the Canstar Blue Award for 'Most Satisfied Smartphones Customers' three years in a row and also named WhistleOut's Phone Manufacturer of the Year this year for the third year running."

The company recommended its A16s, A54 5G and A74 5G as being its top smartphones for seniors in 2021.
Australian workers proficiency in technology has improved with 65% of employees considering themselves either experts or skilful with digital technology, according to a survey by technology research and consulting company Gartner.

"Digital workers seized the opportunity to improve their mastery of technology during the pandemic, comments Gartner research vice president and fellow Gavin Tay. They demonstrated adaptability and resourcefulness, became more autonomous in solving digital problems and felt more productive. Australian workers intend to seize the flexibility that 2020 gave them and turn it to their benefit.

The Gartner 2021 Digital Worker Experience Survey polled 10,080 full-time employees at organisations with 100 or more employees, including 919 in Australia, to better understand workers technology and workplace experiences and attitudes.

Although 31% of workers said they are still developing knowledge, that percentage has decreased as the pandemic forced organisations into a digital work reality (see Figure 1 below).

Flexible work supports increased productivity

When asked to select reasons for improved productivity, 42% reported flexible work hours. The next most common reasons for productivity improvement were availability of new technology or devices (23%), and changes in their physical space or location, such as fewer distractions and less socialising with co-workers (23%).

Questions still linger among executives regarding the impact of remote work on productivity. However, more than one-third (34%) of Australians reported that they have been more productive since the start of the pandemic. Only 20% of Australian respondents said they were less productive since January 2020, and 46% felt their productivity remained the same.

Connectivity issues were the most selected reason for decrease in productivity (26%) followed by more time spent in meetings (23%) and lack of the needed technology or technical know-how (23%).

Employee monitoring deemed unacceptable

Australian workers are disinclined to approve of any method of digital surveillance to a notable degree. 20% said no form of monitoring is acceptable. Measuring task outcomes and frequent worker-manager check-in meetings are the most acceptable means of monitoring.

Employers may monitor worker activities broadly, but should avoid using monitoring software, explains Tay. They should also align any surveillance to existing consents, prioritise health and safety and follow notification rules.

Co-working more popular in Australia

One-third of Australians said they would prefer to work from a combination of locations. When asked to indicate what proportion of time they work from various locations, Australian respondents worked on average of 21% of the time in shared or coworking offices, higher than the 13% average across all countries surveyed, and significantly more than Japan (2%) and Germany (4.5%).



Only 12% said they would prefer to work at the company office all the time, while 14% said they prefer to only work from home. 57% of Australian workers said they wish to work three or more days remotely each week.

Australians call IT for help

In 2021, the variety of ways to solve digital challenges boomed. However, the survey found that the number one preference for Australians is still to call internal IT support and speak to a live person to help resolve technical issues (top choice for 20% of Australian respondents and 46% ranked it in the top three).

Respondents in other countries were more likely to look for an answer on the internet or ask a co-worker.

Digital proficiency becomes even more essential for productivity when working remotely, says Tay. CIOs should extend worker-to-worker lateral mentoring and training to ensure that no employees are left behind as technology mastery becomes the expectation.

Tay discussed the Australian findings from the Gartner 2021 Digital Worker Experience Survey during Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo 2021, which is taking place virtually in the APAC region this week.

The survey was conducted in November and December 2020 among 10,080 full-time employees at organisations with 100 or more employees in the US, Europe and Asia Pacific.
Smartphone company vivo is pushing its vivo X60 Pro 5G, launched in May, as a good way to avoid returning from a big night out with a mass of blurry pictures on one's smartphone.

The company said in a statement that it had polled 1000 Australians and found that 81% had their own version of what vivo called a "visual hangover".

This was defined as "waking up after a night out disappointed by their phone footage (43%), or deleting it from social media (38%)".

The study also found nearly half (45%) struggled to take high-quality photos and videos on their phones; blurry shots (77%) and shakiness (47%) were the biggest pain points when watching footage taken on a smartphone.

The company recruited director and social content pioneerto transform the worst footage from her camera into a short film using the X60 Pro.

Lehman also produced a second video, showing how blurry images could be transformed using the tools on the X60 Pro. The device marks the beginning of the company's collaboration with global imaging leader ZEISS.

Said Lehmann: "I've created series for Snapchat, Instagram and TV using industry-leading camera equipment. What's really exciting is we're now seeing this technology filter through to phones  allowing us to capture and remember everyday moments in crystal-clear quality.

"My biggest tip for content creators is to embrace not only the creative, but the technical side of filming. There is so much technology available right in the palm of your hand, you just need to find the right device and start experimenting. For my last shoot there was no professional camera equipment, just the vivo X60 Pro smartphone, and the results were cinema-worthy!"

vivo Australia communications manager Laura Hayward said: "Australians are demanding more from smartphones to elevate their everyday content game. It's not as simple as upgrading your camera specs, as this doesn't solve the issue of shaky hands and it certainly does not help with your visual hangover."

"To address these issues, vivo launched the world's first smartphone equipped with a built-in gimbal stabiliser. For many photographers and videographers, it offers a unique feature never before seen in the market, while seeking to rid Australian camera rolls of blurry, shaky footage.

"We're thrilled to team up with Hannah to show how the X60 Pro is a game-changer. Built with photographers and film creators in mind. It's designed for camera enthusiasts who capture content a little differently."
Deloitte Australia has appointed Steve Jansz to the role of managing partner for risk advisory, effective 1 December 2021.

"I am really excited to announce Steve as the new leader of our fast growing and market leading risk advisory business," said Deloitte Australia CEO Adam Powick.

"I have known Steve for many years, and he has the right experience, depth of vision and leadership attributes to take the risk advisory team to the next stage of growth and market leadership.

"Deloitte's risk advisory business is one of the firm's fastest growing businesses, and the risk agenda is a consistently high priority for business and government leaders. We are very confident in the future of this business under Steve's leadership and will continue to invest heavily in digital innovation and strengthening the capability of our risk advisory team."

Jansz also becomes a member of company's national executive.

He is currently risk advisory national leader for regulatory and risk insights and has held various roles since joining Deloitte in 2008.

Jansz previously worked as a consultant at Telstra and Arthur Andersen, and as a senior manager at BearingPoint.

He holds a BSc from the University of Melbourne.

"I am proud and energised to be the leader of our dynamic and innovative risk advisory practice. I look forward to growing and investing in our business, combining world-class risk expertise with innovative digital solutions to deliver our client's most important transformation outcomes," said Jansz.

He succeeds Dennis Krallis, who became Deloitte Australia's chief transformation officer in September and remains a member of the national executive.
"Although Sana has been active in the region for the last five years, helping over 50 B2B companies to take advantage of the possibilities of online selling, this is the first time we have made such a significant step regarding our expansion into the market. We believe that APAC is able to deliver strong growth opportunities and that the market is ready for a sophisticated approach to B2B e-commerce," said Sana Commerce chief sales officer and APAC and MEA general manager Ruben Mink.

McNamara's new role includes that of country head for Australia and New Zealand.

He joins Sana from Curo, where he worked as head of sales for APAC. McNamara previously held senior sales roles at Containerchain and PageUp, after starting his career in software development and maintenance.

McNamara holds a bachelor's degree in IT from Swinburne University of Technology.

"Sana is truly a must have for manufacturers, wholesalers and distributors operating in the region," he said.

"Many companies found that the pandemic escalated their need to be able to sell online or that their planned digital transformation needed to be sped up. Sana is built for B2B buying and can deliver a strong experience that perhaps some lighter touch e-commerce platforms can't.

"The ability for the platform to fully integrate with the business' critical ERP solution means that the web store provides accurate and reliable data to customers."
Microsoft claims to have detected what it characterises as nation-state activity by an adversary it calls Nobelium  the SolarWinds attackers who are also known as APT29 and Cozy Bear  trying to gain access to customers of multiple cloud providers, including itself.

The company's Threat Intelligence Centre said, additionally, managed service providers and other organisations offering IT services had been targeted by this attack group.

Russians hacking your Microsoft products got you down? Buy more Microsoft products! #PaidForByRussiansForMicrosoftProducts  J. A. Guerrero-Saade (@juanandres_gs) October 25, 2021

It said in a blog post that the claimed activity had been observed in the US and Europe since May.

News of the SolarWinds attacks came to light in December 2020, with both FireEye and Microsoft describing the attack as a global one, with a trojan being implanted into a file which was part of updates for the product; the compromised file was given the name SUNBURST. SolarWinds' Orion monitoring software, the target, runs on Windows.

After the SolarWinds attacks were made public, there was no further major discovery involving the alleged actor behind them.

In September, global cyber security firm Kaspersky claimed it had found a new backdoor, which it named Tomiris that showed signs of being connected to the actor behind the SolarWinds attacks.

"MSTIC assesses that Nobelium has launched a campaign against these organisations to exploit existing technical trust relationships between the provider organisations and the governments, think tanks, and other companies they serve," the post claimed.

The post claimed that the attacks did not use vulnerabilities in any of the products attacked, but instead used "a diverse and dynamic toolkit that includes sophisticated malware, password sprays, supply chain attacks, token theft, API abuse, and spear phishing to compromise user accounts and leverage the access of those accounts".

One intrusion chain it had found stretched across four separate providers, the post said.

Amit Yoran, chairman and chief executive of security shop Tenable, commented: "Those who thought SolarWinds was a once-in-a-lifetime attack didn't see the writing on the wall. The cyber criminals behind the infamous breach are unsurprisingly at it again.

"This time, they're targeting Microsoft cloud services resellers through an unsophisticated yet wide-scale attack. The attacks were preventable had companies implemented basic cyber hygiene measures such as enforcing multi-factor authentication, implementing strong password policies and enabling robust access management."

Yoran stressed that these were not highly sophisticated, never-before-seen techniques behind a major cyber attack.

"It's the basics that are still tripping organisations up. What is a relatively new development over the last 12 months is a strategic and continued focus on the software supply chain," he said.

"This speaks directly to the gaping supply chain security issues that SolarWinds brought to attention  break just one chain link and you can bring down the entire fence."
Today

Intervals of clouds and sunshine in the morning with more clouds for later in the day. High 81F. Winds light and variable.

Tonight

Cloudy early with partial clearing expected late. Low around 55F. Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow

Partly cloudy skies. High 82F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.
Jacksonville, TX (75766)

Today

Mainly sunny. High 74F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy early followed by cloudy skies overnight. Low 61F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.




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.
John Newby is author of the Building Main Street, Not Wall Street column dedicated to helping communities combine synergies with local media companies allowing them to not just survive but to thrive. His email is john@360mediaalliance.net.
Joe Hadsall is the digital editor for The Joplin Globe. He has been the editor of the former Nixa News-Enterprise and has worked for the Christian County Headliner News and 417 Magazine.

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Missouri Independent is part of States Newsroom, a network of news bureaus supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a public charity. It can be found at missouriindependent.com.
Betty Jean Pulley, 95, passed away November 4, 2021, at Windridge Nursing Home, Miami, Oklahoma. Betty was born September 7, 1926, at home in Riverton, Kansas, to Albert Petty Cutright and Alta Elizabeth (Newkirk). She graduated from Riverton High School Class of 1944, and attended Joplin Ju
MCJ fights for the most vulnerable Mississippians. Our work is testament to our conviction. Fighting difficult battles and overcoming insurmountable odds is what we do in Mississippi," said Vangela M. Wade, president and CEO of Mississippi Center for Justice. Here she addresses media and lawmakers at the state capitol in Jackson, Mississippi on February 27, 2020, after Department of Human Services officials were reported embezzling funds meant for Mississippi families. The Mississippi Center for Justice is a non-profit pro bono law firm dedicated to dismantling the states culture of injustice. Photo Credit: Mississippi Center for Justice / Patrick Taylor
The case of Kazem Rajavi, a prominent Iranian dissident assassinated in the Geneva area in 1990, is worthy of a thriller. Swiss prosecutors linked his murder to agents of the Iranian regime, but they escaped the net. In 2020, as the case was set to be closed, the dead mans brother appealed, and on September 27, 2021, the Federal Criminal Court ordered that it be reopened as a component of possible genocide or crimes against humanity.

Back last year, when prosecutors in canton Vaud announced that they planned to close the case under a 30-year statute of limitations, lawyers for the victims brother Saleh Rajavi appealed on grounds that the murder was in direct relation with the massacre of 30,000 political prisoners, perpetrated in Iran in the second half of the year 1988 under the cover of the fatwa pronounced by the Supreme Leader Khomeini. Rajavis Geneva-based lawyer Nils De Dardel explains that, referring to many legal opinions including Amnesty International, we highlighted that this murder was part of the Iranian regimes plan to kill all active members of the opposition and was linked to the massacre of political prisoners. In this context, it constitutes genocide and crimes against humanity, for which there is no statute of limitations.

Maryam Rajavi, Iranian opposition leader and wife of Kazem Rajavis brother, paying tribute to the deceased.

In Switzerland, international crimes like genocide and crimes against humanity fall to the Federal Office of the Attorney General (OAG) to investigate. Canton Vaud referred to it, but the OAG ruled that provisions on genocide and crimes against humanity were not introduced into the Swiss Criminal Code until after 1990 and could not be applied retroactively. The brother appealed again, to the Federal Criminal Court. This court decided differently. Referring to the findings of the Vaud investigation, it concluded that the assassination in question may indeed have been committed with the intention of committing genocide or crimes against humanity. These crimes () can be prosecuted without any time limit. It consequently falls to the OAG to take the case.

Genocide in international and national law

Even if it doesnt go to court, it helps shape the narrative of systematic human rights abuses by the Iranian regime, says Philip Grant, director of Swiss anti-impunity NGO TRIAL International.

This case spotlights the fact that Swiss law has a broader definition of genocide than international law. Under the 1948 Genocide Convention, genocide is defined as acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group. This definition is echoed in the Statute of the International Criminal Court. But some countries take it further. For example, Canadian law says any identifiable group and its Truth Commission labelled the residential school system as a case of cultural genocide against indigenous people. And in Switzerland, an amendment to the Criminal Code in 2000 considers that genocide can be committed against social and political groups.

Swiss international criminal law expert Guenael Mettraux thinks it would be a bit of a stretch to prosecute the Rajavi case for genocide. If I were a prosecutor in this case, I would avoid unnecessary difficulties, he told Justice Info. This case could more easily qualify as a crime against humanity, without the legal and evidential challenges associated with the notion of genocide.

Grant agrees. A prosecution for genocide is probably not going to happen, he told Justice Info. A crucial element is intent to destroy a protected group as such, which has historically been very hard to prove. Its much more likely to be investigated for crimes against humanity, he told Justice Info.

On the other hand, trying to prosecute for genocide could set an international precedent beyond the narrow confines of the Genocide Convention, Mettraux adds. The more countries widen their definition of this crime, the more pressure there might be for it to be widened in international law. A lot of people are frustrated with how narrow the definition of the Genocide Convention is and think it is important to broaden it to political groups, he says. Mettraux sees in the decision a sign that Switzerland is committed to upholding international criminal law not just abroad, but also at home.

A crime against humanity?

Crimes against humanity are defined in Swiss and international law as part of a widespread or systematic attack directed against any civilian population, with knowledge of the attack.

Rajavi was shot dead by a commando, while driving his red Datsun on 24 April 1990. His assassination occurred at a time when Irans Islamic regime under Ayatollah Khomeini was not only murdering political opponents in Iranian jails but also killing political opponents abroad. According to the Vaud prosecutors investigation, assassinations were notably perpetrated between 1987 and 1993 in Hamburg, Vienna, London, Dubai and Paris, as well as the Geneva area, where Rajavi was gunned down in broad daylight.

The killers with blue caps came from Iran, headlines La Tribune de Geneve in an article of 9 July 2015 devoted to the assassinations of Kazem Rajavi and another Iranian opponent on Swiss territory. Right: photo of the bullet-riddled red Datsun of the Iranian opponent assassinated in Switzerland.

After Rajavis death, Swiss suspicions focused on Iranian diplomats who had quickly left the country after the assassination. Prosecutors in canton Vaud drew up a list of 13 Iranians suspected of having actively participated in the murder and had them put under international arrest warrants. In 2006, Switzerland also issued an international arrest warrant for former Iranian intelligence minister Ali Fallahian on suspicion of having ordered the assassination.

Two of the hitmen were later arrested by French police. But despite a Swiss warrant, the French government put them on a direct flight to Tehran for reasons of state. This drew international condemnation, including from the United States. But the international arrest warrants have now been lifted, and the Iranian authorities have always denied any involvement in the attack.

Given all this, chances of a trial in this case seem low.

A test for new swiss Attorney General?

Never say never, replies Grant. Although prosecutions for Iranian political assassinations are rare, he points to the fact that in August a Swedish court started trying a former Iranian official for mass executions of prisoners.

And even more recently, an Iranian opposition group filed a complaint with Scottish police for human rights abuses and genocide allegedly committed by Irans current president, Ebrahim Raisi. Hossein Abedini, a member of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) coalition of opposition parties, said at a press conference that Raisi had to be held accountable for taking part in the 1988 massacre of some 30,000 political prisoners. The NCRI called for Raisi to be arrested if he travels to Glasgow to attend the UN climate change summit from October 31.

The Swiss case is now in the hands of the Swiss Office of the Attorney General, which is under-resourced on international crimes cases and has been notoriously reluctant and slow to take them in the past. Both Mettraux and Grant think this will be a test for new Attorney General Stefan Blattler.

WHO WAS KAZEM RAJAVI? Kazem Rajavi, post-Revolution Irans first ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva, was gunned down on April 24, 1990, as he was driving to his home in Coppet, a small town in canton Vaud near Geneva. Rajavi had become strongly critical of the Khomeini regime, resigned his diplomatic post after just one year and was the representative in Switzerland of the opposition National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI). He campaigned, including at the UN, for human rights and democracy in Iran. Kazem was the brother of Massoud Rajavi, the leader of the Peoples Mujahedin, the main armed opposition group to the Islamic regime in Iran. The renowned human rights advocate had been granted political asylum in Switzerland in 1981. Source: swissinfo.ch
A landmark case against a Sierra Leone rebel accused of war crimes during Liberias bloody conflict resumed in Finland on Tuesday, after the court returned from hearing testimony in Monrovia.

Gibril Massaquoi appeared at Pirkanmaa District Court dressed in a grey woollen sweater and listened through a translator as a defence witness spoke during his trial for rape, ritual murder and recruiting child soldiers during the later years of Liberias second civil war, which ended in 2003.

Massaquoi denies all charges and claims he was not in Liberia when the alleged offences took place.

A witness, who was granted anonymity by the court, described being holed up with the defendant in a series of safehouses in Sierra Leone between 2002 and 2003 after Massaquoi agreed to become an informant for the prosecutor of the Special Court for Sierra Leone.

Did Gibril ever leave the safehouse for any reason during your first six months there? defence counsel Kaarle Gummerus asked.

If he did, the special court would send security and a car to take him, the witness answered. The security always had the key to the gate.

Cross-examining, prosecutor Tom Laitinen asked whether it was possible that, before moving to the safehouse, Massaquoi ever travelled to Liberia in order to meet a girlfriend, without the witnesss knowledge.

Yes, the witness said.

Born in 1970, Massaquoi was a senior commander of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF), a Sierra Leone rebel group that also fought in Liberia.

He moved to Finland in 2008 and was arrested there in March 2020 after a rights group investigated his war record.

In an unprecedented move, the Finnish court decamped to Monrovia between February and April this year, and again in September, to hear witness testimony in the case.

The proceedings were described as historic, as very few people have been tried for war crimes committed in Liberia, and none inside the country itself.

Around a quarter of a million people were killed between 1989 and 2003 in the West African country, in a conflict marked by merciless violence and rape, often carried out by drugged-up child soldiers.

There are regular appeals to establish a war crimes tribunal inside Liberia, a poor nation of five million people where some ex-warlords remain powerful.

President George Weah has resisted the calls, however.

The Finnish court will hear more witnesses, including from the US by video link, over the coming two months, with a verdict likely sometime in the new year, court officials said.
A Senate panel probing the Brazilian governments pandemic response asked the Supreme Court and prosecutor generals office Tuesday to suspend President Jair Bolsonaro from social media for falsely linking Covid-19 vaccines to AIDS.

The Senators called for the far-right leader to be barred indefinitely from YouTube, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram after he cited non-existent official reports from the British government allegedly finding fully vaccinated people are developing AIDS much faster than expected.

Bolsonaro made the claim Thursday in his weekly live address on Facebook, which has removed the video for violating its policies on spreading misinformation. YouTube went a step further Monday, suspending Bolsonaro for a week, in addition to blocking the clip.

The request came as the Senate commission, which has spent the past six months investigating the Bolsonaro governments pandemic response, prepared to vote on a damning final report that recommends the president face multiple charges, including crimes against humanity, for downplaying Covid-19 and flouting expert advice on containing it.

The pandemic has claimed more than 600,000 lives in Brazil, second only to the United States.

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University of Kansas Student Body President Niya McAdoo had countless racial slurs and threats directed at them after they retweeted happy Friday everybody. Death to America on Sept. 3. Since then, they have focused on continuing to advocate for Black and Indigenous students on campus and address pressing issues such as sexual assault.

The reaction to the retweet was not surprising to McAdoo, they said. Regardless, they stand by their comment.

Ultimately, I stand by what I said," McAdoo said. "It was purely addressing the fact that this country was born out of genocide and violence and slavery. Thats not an America Im proud to be a part of.

McAdoo said the retweet was never intended to insult veterans or those currently serving in active duty.

Upon retweeting the controversial message, McAdoo received a number of racist messages through their Twitter, student body president email and other platforms.

MaAdoo said the replies showed how African Americans continue to be demonized for sharing their opinions and how they see the United States.

[The responses] showed the continued anti-Blackness and violence that happens to Black people, whether theyre in a position of leadership or not, McAdoo said.

Conservative blogger Todd Starnes and the Kansas Federation of College Republicans called on McAdoo to resign. Starnes also cited McAdoos other tweets as evidence that KU and other college campuses are creating hatred towards America.

Im not going to colonize my views, message and morals for it to be more comfortable or digestible for anybody, McAdoo said. These issues werent created by Black and Brown folks, this is white, cis patriarchy were talking about. Its not my job to give the solutions to centuries of systemic problems to anybody.

Following the retweet, Chancellor Douglas Girod issued a statement condemning it. Girod made clear that the message was protected speech under the First Amendment, but said he strongly disagreed.

KU is committed to its role as a marketplace of ideas  including ideas that some individuals find offensive, Girod said in his statement. I understand and appreciate why many individuals have found the content of the students post offensive. I strongly disagree with the sentiment of her retweet, and I want to make clear that she does not speak for the university on this or any other matter.

At a Senate meeting Wednesday, Sept. 15, Holdover Senator Martin Vazquez and other senators proposed a resolution formally condemning McAdoos retweet. Vazquez said the resolution was never meant to create hostility between any parties involved.

Senators voted against the resolution. Of the 40 people who voted, 22 senators voted no. Thirteen senators voted in favor of the resolution, with five abstaining.

Three weeks ago, McAdoo shared with the Senate Chamber that they met with Girod to talk about a number of issues on campus, including the attacks McAdoo received following the retweet.

Girod privately apologized to McAdoo, they said. But neither Girod or KU Provost Barbara Bichelmeyer have spoken out publicly against the hateful responses.

Im not even asking for a personalized public apology for myself, McAdoo said. The Chancellor owes it to his Black students, faculty and staff to make a public apology for not addressing or having accountability for the racism and anti-Blackness that continues on this campus.

Among the reasons McAdoo was not surprised by the backlash was because of the countrys history condemning Black people and other people of color for speaking out, they said.

They do not feel like they owe an explanation to anyone, particularly to people who are not trying to understand what they and other Black people in America have experienced, they said.

Moving forward, [Girod] needs to commit himself to educating himself on what anti-Blackness is, understanding his own privilege and understanding why these marginalized communities on campus do see this country the way they do, McAdoo said. Whether he agrees with what I said or not doesnt matter. The fact that he did not condemn blatant racism and threats I received ultimately gave people the green light to continue treating me the way they have.

In meetings with Girod and Bichelmeyer, McAdoo told them that administration needs to take action regarding the Phi Kappa Psi reported sexual assault and the vandalized and stolen Indigenous artwork outside of the Spencer Museum of Art.

Senate passed a resolution Oct. 13 that called on the administration to immediately enforce social probation on Phi Kappa Psi and to terminate the membership of the accused individual.

We hope the resolution will be those first steps in addressing sexual violence overall, McAdoo said. But, its purpose is also to make sure [administration] is doing everything in their power to make sure the survivor is also feeling supported.

McAdoo also emphasized the importance of protecting the survivors identity and centering them in conversations about sexual assault and violence.

The vandalism of Native Hosts by Hock E Aye Vi Edgar Heap of Birds was also a topic of conversation among McAdoo and administration. McAdoo said it is important to stand behind Indigenous students, faculty and staff.

It wasnt even outlined as a racial hate crime against Indigenous people [in the announcement Bichelmeyer released], McAdoo said. Continuing to have this sugar coated language around violent issues is problematic. These individuals need to be using their privilege to educate themselves and understand why these issues continue to happen.

The theft and vandalism sparked protests brought on by the First Nations Student Association. Student leaders echoed what McAdoo had said in their interview with the Kansan.

The stolen piece of art has since been recovered. The two suspects of the vandalism have also been identified through an anonymous tip. The Office of Public Safety Deputy Chief James Druen the case was submitted to the DAs office for charging consideration on Oct. 4.

In a letter addressing the crime, Provost Barbara Bichelmeyer, Chancellor Douglas Girod, and Marilyn Stokstad Director of the Spencer Museum of Art, Saralyn Hardy, said they condemn this crime and are committed to amplifying Indigenous and Native voices.

Individuals need to use their own privilege to educate themselves on why these issues continue to happen, McAdoo said. If we are not able to criticize our past and present in how this country continues to treat its Black and Brown communities then we will not see a future in change.
The Overland Park Police Department offense report just came to light, but was filed by Principal David Ewers on Nov. 8 at 1 p.m., a couple of hours after hundreds of students walked out while holding signs saying things like, "Protect the victims, not the assailants," "It's not a joke," and
The world fell in love with the newest historical romance drama "The King's Affection" starring Park Eun Bin and SF9 Rowoon.

"The King's Affection" ranked fifth in the Netflix Global Chart within two weeks of its initial release, proving the power of the new drama.

Park Eun Bin and SF9 Rowoon's 'The King's Affection' Charts on Netflix Global

According to FlixPatrol, which collects streaming data about films and series, Park Eun Bin and SF9 Rowoon's "The King's Affection" charts on Netflix Global within two weeks of broadcasting.

The drama took the fifth rank in the Top 10 highly loved dramas in countries like Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Fans and viewers have indeed fallen deeply in love with the drama's interesting royal narrative and thrilling romance between the two main characters Lee Hwi and Jung Ji Woon, played by Park Eun Bin and SF9 Rowoon, respectively.

In addition to that, the production team of "The King's Affection" raises expectations by saying, "The future of the drama is much more interesting."

Three Things to Look Out For in 'The King's Affection'

Park Eun Bin and SF9 Rowoon's drama project together, "The King's Affection," started blissfully with a relatively high rating.

The drama continuously received love from its fans and loyal viewers. Now that the drama is in its third week, the production team of "The King's Affection" listed down three things to look out for in the new historical romance drama.

Park Eun Bin and SF9 Rowoon's Heart-Racing Romance

Crown Prince Lee Hee Hwi (Park Eun Bin) learns Jung Ji Woon's (SF9 Rowoon) sincerity, thus accepting him as his teacher.

This means that the two will have to see each other every day in Sigangwon, the town in charge of the Crown Prince's education.

Lee Hwi opened her heart for the teacher, trusting him wholeheartedly. As the drama's story progresses, Lee Hwi and Ji Woon's friendship will slowly bloom in front of the viewers' eyes, which one shouldn't miss.

What Lies Beneath 'The Palace'

One of the main reasons why "The King's Affection" is even more breathtaking is that it possesses a spine-chilling confrontation between characters, and the people next in the succession of the throne threatening Lee Hwi's life are being revealed one by one.

The assassin the crown prince encountered once skillfully escaped the scene by camouflaging into another body. Since then, the people who showed hostility to the crown prince as the prime suspect of treachery.

His uncle Chang Woon Gun (Kim Seo Ha) who is openly suspicious of Lee Hwi's secret, his stepmother Jung Jeon (Son Yeo Eun) who are estranged to Lee Hwi and Hye Jong (Lee Pil Mo) are monitored with hawk eyes.

It doesn't help that Jung Jeon plans to put her biological son Je Hyun Gun (Cha Seong Je) on the throne. The mighty warrior Kim Ga On (Choi Byung Chan) also adds to the mystery.

As Lee Hwi once stated, "The palace is a scary and dangerous place," one shouldn't blink even for a moment.

Song Hyun Wook's Sensuous Directing Skills

A drama wouldn't be successful if the one who holds the propellers isn't as good as its crew. But for "The King's Affection," filmmaker Song Hyun Wook showed his high quality directing skills that once again revived the emotions and South Korean and various elements through the historical romance drama.

The visual beauty of the natural scenery all over South Korea was incorporated in the drama, thus giving off the feeling of warmth and serenity. The set and lighting maximize the sense of space of the quiet, dangerous palace.

In addition to that, the OST doubles the empathy and understanding of the character. The costumes also bring out the characters' beautiful appearances, mixing the South Korean beauty and faint sensibility.

Because of this, the richness of every scene is intensified, exploding to the highest level.

'The King's Affection' Episode 6 Release Date and Time

Park Eun Bin and SF9 Rowoon's "The King's Affection" is now in its third week, decorating viewers' Monday and Tuesday nights with beautiful stories.

Apart from the duo, Nam Yoon Soo, Choi Byung Chan, Bae Yoon Kyung and DIA Chaeyeon are also part of the main ensemble.

The Song Hyun Wook-directed drama's sixth episode is scheduled to air on October 26 at 9:30 p.m. KST on KBS and Netflix.

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KDramaStars owns this article.

Written by Elijah Mully.
"Lovers of the Red Sky" episode 15 featured a devastating truth that rocked Ahn Hyo Seop while Kim Yoo Jung had to make a tough decision for her to accomplish the sealing ceremony.

On the other hand, Kwak Si Yang's character had to face brutal consequences.

'Lovers of the Red Sky' Viewership Rating

As the SBS historical drama nears its finale, the Monday and Tuesday night series remains undefeated as the most-watched drama in its time slot.

Per Nielsen Korea, "Lovers of the Red Sky" episode 15 garnered an average nationwide rating of 8.9 percent and 8.1 percent viewership rating in the metropolitan area.

'Lovers of the Red Sky' Episode 15 Highlights: Ha Ram Learns the Truth About His Father's Death

The historical drama gave the audience a surprising twist after the King revealed the truth to Ha Ram.

"Lovers of the Red Sky" episode 15 displays the heartbreaking news that would break Ha Ram's mission to avenge his father.

It came after King Sung Jo told the blind astrologer that he knew about his plot to seek revenge; however, instead of punishing Ha Ram for his desire to destroy the Kingdom, he tells the truth about his late father.

His Majesty revealed to Ha Ram that Ma Wang, who was manifesting inside him, killed his father.

The blind astrologer was shocked to hear this, knowing that it was him who killed his own father; however, the King explained that it was the demon king and not him.

In the end, the royal vowed to fight the demon as long as he lived to protect humans from Ma Wang.

Prince Joo Hyang Meets the King

"Lovers of the Red Sky" episode 15 also showcased Hong Cheon Gi's love for her family.

After losing her father, the divine painter rushed to Prince Joo Hyang to stop the royal from the assassination of the Baekgyu Institute workers.

She pleaded with the prince to spare her family's life, but the royal ordered his men to continue the execution.

Fortunately, King Sung Jo came alongside Prince Yang Myeong and Ha Ram and ordered Prince Joo Hyang's men to stop the public execution.

The King also hints that the greedy prince might face punishment due to this.

At the palace, King Sung Jo was furious about the prince's action and disobeying his command.

Instead of feeling sorry, he showed a scar left by the demon king during the fire at Gyeongwon Pavilion.

He gets honest and tells the King the reason why he wanted Ma Wang to manifest on him.

Prince Joo Hyang mentioned that if he failed to be possessed by the demon king, the scar would eat up his body, causing him to die.

However, the King stood by his principle and promised to protect the nation against the demon, hence sending Prince Joo Hyang to prison as a form of punishment.

Ha Ram Leaves Hong Cheon Gi

Following her father's death, Ha Ram showed his ancestor's burial place to Cheon Gi so she could lay her father's remains peacefully.

For the last time, the divine painter finally said goodbye to her father and promised to meet him in the afterlife.

Ha Ram also gave a divine ring to Cheon Gi and promised to be by her side no matter what; however, it's not always rainbow and butterflies for the two.

In one scene, Ma Wang manifested again and tried to steal the eyes of the divine painter. To stop this, Ha Ram has decided to leave Cheon Gi until the sealing ceremony is over.

"I will find a way for us to be together," he told himself as he left the divine painter.

Hong Cheon Gi's Deal with Hwacha

"Lovers of the Red Sky" episode 15 also pointed out why the first sealing ritual failed.

Hong Cheon Gi got a surprise visit with Hwacha and was told that the sealing ritual failed because the divine painter did not make a deal with him.

To prove this, Hwacha showed Cheon Gi a memory of his father while he painted the royal portrait.

Cheon Gi then decided to make a deal with Hwacha.

The "Lovers of the Red Sky" finale will illustrate if the divine painter made the right decision or not.

KDramastars owns this article

Written by Geca Wills
In a few days' time world leaders will meet at the COP26 climate change conference in Glasgow, Scotland. There, they will get a rare and precious opportunity not only to combat global warming, but also to acknowledge -- and make a commitment to fight -- the interconnected crises of climate change and social and racial injustice. Will they take it?

Science tells us that to avoid irreversible climate change that will have a catastrophic effect on life on Earth we must limit further temperature rises to 1.5 or 2 degrees at the very most. That means achieving the emissions reduction target of net zero by no later than 2050. Time is rapidly running out.

World leaders know what is at stake. Most of the richest nations, and all the G20 member states, signed up to the Paris Agreement in 2015. And yet, according to analysis from Climate Action Tracker, few of the Paris signatories are meeting their promised goals.

So what is holding them back?

Some will feel hampered by skeptical voters, financial constraints and Covid-19-related challenges. US President Joe Biden, while painfully aware of the risk climate change poses to the US economy, is struggling to enact vital green policies because of political polarization and tensions within his own Democratic Party.

But I believe that the key reason for much of the current inaction -- and the greatest threat to progress at COP26 -- is a lack of empathy. It is the inability of some of the most influential leaders and of large swaths of the public on whose votes they depend, including in North America, Europe and Australia, to see the majority of the victims of climate change as fully real people, deserving of protection. And that is partly because of those victims' skin color.

The meeting rooms of COP26 will be haunted by the (literally) toxic legacy of the empire-building days of many of the world's wealthiest countries, when prosperous, industrializing, northern-hemisphere nations, the populations of which were mostly White, plundered the resources of poorer, pre-industrial, southern-hemisphere nations, the populations of which were mostly Black or brown.

Colonialists and slave traders devised an ingenious way of justifying this exploitation while avoiding any burdensome sense of guilt -- they invented the concept of race to justify declaring White people to be superior, and people of color to be inferior -- not quite human. Lingering belief in and institutional reflections of this pernicious idea is still the cause of much injustice across the globe, and climate injustice is no exception.

For, if the Earth continues to heat, it is the Black and brown inhabitants of the world's poorest and most climate-vulnerable regions who will suffer the most and the soonest. People living in places such as the low-lying Pacific islands, now at risk of being wiped out by rising sea levels, and large parts of sub-Saharan Africa, where extreme heat, droughts and floods can lead to famine, will pay the price.

Their suffering will be closely mirrored by that of richer nations' most disadvantaged populations, who cannot afford to protect themselves from climate-related severe weather events and are often unable to recover from such events once they have hit. This is already playing out in the southern US, where in recent years major hurricanes have left already marginalized, majority-Black communities traumatized and even poorer.

The G20 countries are, according to a paper from the World Resources Institute and Climate Analytics, responsible for around 75% of global emissions. Consciously or not, some of those privileged few are in danger of using the mechanism of dehumanization as a psychological buffer between themselves and those who pollute the least yet are most threatened by climate change. If you see the climate crisis as something that mainly affects people who are, in some indefinable way, not like you -- or worse, as less human than you -- then you are unlikely to feel the need to take urgent, expensive steps to save them.

The only antidote to this 'othering', and to injustice of every kind, is a more radical empathy. If we are to succeed in fighting climate change, we need to develop deep empathy for all our fellow global citizens, and we should demand that our leaders demonstrate their ability do the same.

When we hear Pacific islanders explain how it feels to be facing extinction, we must be able to feel their dread. When we see climate refugees forced to leave Africa's Sahel region, where unpredictable rainfall means they can no longer rely on their own crops to feed their children, we have to actually experience their anxiety, their despair, their hope.

Empathy requires work. It is not an easy task to really understand that a person who doesn't look like you, talk like you or pray like you is, in fact, your brother or sister. It can be difficult, or even feel antagonistic, to be asked to glimpse the world through a stranger's eyes, but doing it can lead us to recognize the beauty of our common humanity in ways that can transform the world.

The best way to open our minds and hearts and learn to empathize is to truly listen to others. That is perhaps the best opportunity that COP26 provides. We must give the people who have the most to lose from our climate inaction -- inhabitants of the global south, members of poor and vulnerable communities and young people -- an unfettered platform to express their fear and frustration and to share the solutions they know are required.

When they do, the rest of the world must pay very careful attention -- at COP26 and beyond -- and then act in unison to make social and racial justice a centerpiece of climate solutions, all pursued with renewed commitment.

If we can all take a leap of faith and start to perceive every current and future inhabitant of this fragile planet as being just as startlingly human as we are, then we may have a chance to avoid further climate disaster. We might also at last be able to build a new world in which racial and social injustice are things of the past. We all stand to gain from meeting that target. It seems to me that COP26 is as good a place as any to start.

The-CNN-Wire

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The FBI is revealing new details about a $31.8 million counterfeit coupon scheme that landed a Virginia Beach couple in prison for nearly 20 years, combined.

In a press release last week, the agency said that investigators found fake coupons in "every crevice" of the house belonging to Lori Ann Talens and her husband, Pacifico Talens, Jr.. The falsified savings were worth more than $1 million. They also found designs for coupons for more than 13,000 products on Lori Ann Talens' computer.

"She trained herself in the different techniques she needed to manipulate barcodes to make these coupons work," said Special Agent Shannon Brill in the FBI release. Talens, who is considered the mastermind of the scheme, would create fake coupons with discounts "near or even over" an item's retail value.

Talens didn't use the fraudulent coupons for herself. The FBI said she sold them to subscribers that found her on social media and communicated with them using an encrypted messaging app. Talens was paid more than $400,000 in digital currencies such as bitcoin and sometimes "exchanged coupons for stolen rolls of the special paper stores use to print out coupons," the agency said.

The three-year scheme was discovered by the Coupon Information Corporation, which received a tip that someone was making and mailing fraudulent coupons. One group of manufacturers said it lost $125,000 from fake coupons linked to Talens.

In September, Talens was sentenced to 12 years in prison for "perpetrating a counterfeit coupon fraud scheme" that amounted to $32 million in losses for retailers and manufacturers, according to the Department of Justice. Her husband was sentenced to 7 years in prison because he was aware of and profited from the scheme.

The couple was accused of using the money for high-end home renovations, including building a new pool and remodeling their kitchen. Talens said in a statement obtained by the New York Times that she was "deeply ashamed and embarrassed" by her actions.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
A lawyer who served in Oregons House of Representatives and Senate, as a Democrat and Republican, is supporting a petition to challenge a legislative redistricting plan adopted by the States legislature.

Kevin Mannix is challenging the entire plan through his non-profit organization, Common Sense for Oregon.

In a letter today, the organization wrote, The redistricting plan adopted by the Legislature is now under challenge, as to the entire plan, before the Oregon Supreme Court. Common Sense for Oregon, a nonpartisan, non-profit group, is supporting the filing of a Petition for Review in the Oregon Supreme Court by plaintiffs Patrick Sheehan and Samantha Hazel.

Mannixs Salem law firm is representing Sheehan and Hazel.

Common Sense for Oregons letter, with language shared on its web site, says The petition points out that the Legislature refused to allow any oral testimony in regard to any redistricting plan except the plans proposed by the legislative Democrats and legislative Republicans. This made the redistricting process a partisan battle because alternative plans submitted by nonpartisan groups were not given full consideration.

The petitioners also challenge the Legislatures method of reapportionment, which started with existing district lines and then modified them. This favors incumbent legislators and is directly in opposition to a redistricting law which provides that any plan should not be established to protect incumbents.

Common Sense for Oregon lists other issues of interests for its input, including the Governors use of emergency powers, early release of convicted felons, and estate tax reform.

Regarding redistricting, Mannix says, The problem with the Legislative Plan is that it is a partisan plan designed to favor one party and designed to favor incumbents. The Legislature had a balanced plan in front of it, which was fair to all concerned, labeled Equitable Map Oregon, presented by Rebecca Tweed. We assert that her plan met all the legal requirements and should be the approach adopted by the Oregon Supreme Court instead of the Legislatures plan.

Common Sense for Oregon says Mannix was politically active as a Democrat in the Oregon House of Representatives for four terms before he was appointed to the Oregon Senate as a Republican and later elected to the Oregon House of Representatives as a Republican. He also served as the Chair of the Oregon Republican Party from 2003-2005.
By Jenn Selva and Amanda Watts, CNN

(CNN) -- Two people were killed when a gunman opened fire Monday at an Idaho mall, according to Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee.

Watch live: Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee is providing an update on the shooting this afternoon at the mall on N. Milwaukee. Comments also by Boise Mayor Lauren McLean. https://t.co/kr5qSOQ3qp  Boise PD (@BoisePD) October 25, 2021

Four other people, including a Boise police officer, were injured, Lee said at a media briefing.

Officers responded to reports of shots fired around 1:50 p.m. "with reports that at least one person was shot and down," Lee said.

Shortly after responding, officers found a person matching the suspect's description and there was an exchange of gunfire that resulted in the officer's injury.

Lee said the suspect is in custody and police cannot yet speak to motive. Police are sure there was only one shooter involved, Lee said.

Video streamed by a reporter from CNN affiliate KBOI showed several police cars and one ambulance outside the main entrance to the Macy's department store. The video shows one person being brought out on a gurney and loaded into the ambulance. Another person sits on the bumper of a police SUV while several emergency workers tend to his head.

Police said they are in the process of notifying family members of the people involved.

Officers were going from one merchant to the next clearing each business, police added.

Lee said most of the mall -- which has 153 stores, according to its website -- has been cleared.

Idaho Gov. Brad Little said the shooting is "unthinkable" and he was praying for the people who were injured. He said the state was ready help police investigate the shooting.

Lee said a county task force would investigate the officer-involved part of the shooting.
Ketchikan, AK (99901)

Today

Rain and snow in the morning turning to rain in the afternoon. High 44F. SE winds at 5 to 10 mph, increasing to 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Snow accumulations less than one inch..

Tonight

A steady rain in the evening. Showers continuing late. Low 43F. Winds S at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 100%. Rainfall around a half an inch.
News

featured

Turnpike flyover ditched for now

Rendering provided by FDOT South Dade business owners and elected officials have urged the Florida Turnpike Enterprise to abandon plans for a proposed 3-mile flyover bridge between S.W. 352nd Street and the turnpike as it would direct traffic away from businesses on U.S. 1.

After hearing strong opposition to a proposed flyover bridge at the top of the 18-Mile Stretch, the Florida Turnpike Enterprise, a division of the Florida Department of Transportation, has suspended that part of its roadway expansion project for now.

We were a unified group at the [July 20] meeting, said Brian Conesa, executive director of the Tropical Everglades Visitor Association, which opposes the project. We did a letter-writing campaign following the meeting. Hopefully, they suspended this aspect of the project for good.

Conesa, other business owners and elected officials took to the podium to urge FTE to abandon the proposed 3-mile flyover bridge at S.W. 352nd Street, just south of the Pollo Tropical restaurant, to the turnpike as it would kill any existing and future business development on U.S. 1.

Conesa pointed to a few long-established restaurants in the area that have closed shop and some new ones that have opened as a sign of an unstable local economy. He said the flyover would cripple remaining businesses.

The preferred Build Alternative presented at the July 20, 2021, public hearing was designed to alleviate traffic congestion by giving motorists more options for travel, improve safety, improve accessibility and enhance emergency evacuation and response, Nicola Liquori, FTEs executive director and CEO, wrote to Conesa in response.

FTE has observed recurring weekend traffic backups onto the southbound high-speed travel lanes due to the volume of cars at the Palm Drive and U.S. 1 intersection. While the project as described at the public hearing meets the transportation needs of the State Highway System and minimizes environmental impacts, we understand and appreciate the concerns from the public delivered during the public hearing. We value the need for an ongoing dialogue with community members including the areas business owners. For this reason, the department has suspended activity to further develop the turnpike ramp over Palm Drive and U.S. 1 intersection and looks forward to working with the community to consider other alternatives that could address some of the safety and operational needs of the area.

Some lay blame on the 18-Mile Stretch for the backups.

Marshall Walker, a Key Largo resident, previously said the flyover would just move congestion further south on U.S. 1.

We in the Keys dont particularly want more people. Its going to cause problems on the stretch. Its going to cause problems where I live, he said.

Islamorada Councilman David Webb also said during the public hearing that traffic on the stretch would worsen.

Whether you have two lanes, four lanes, six lanes, once you hit the stretch, its one lane, he said. You can make an argument that by extending the lanes from four to six, and doing a flyover right to the beginning of the stretch, you are just going to move the traffic jam right to the beginning of the stretch.

FTEs Project Development and Environment Study is still ongoing. Its purpose is to develop and evaluate alternatives that would improve operations and safety, accommodate travel demands and improve evacuation and emergency response times.

This study is the second phase of a FDOT project development process and involves the combined efforts of professional engineers, planners and scientists, who collect and analyze project-related information to determine social, economic, physical and environmental impacts.

The project development process consists of five phases: planning, project development and environment study, design, right-of-way acquisition and construction.

The last 3 miles of the southern turnpike lanes will likely still be widened from three lanes to six.

No additional meetings have been scheduled at this time, but as the letter states, the department will work with the community to consider other alternatives to address the safety needs in the area, said FTE spokeswoman Angela Starke.

If there is any more information or a future meeting date, it will be announced, she said.

For more information about the project, visit turnpikesouthmiamidade.com.

tjava@keysnews.com
ROSEBURG, Ore.  A new facility is open at Umpqua Community College for any students interested in pursuing a career with automotive, welding or apprenticeship technologies.

UCCs renovated Lockwood Hall will be open to the public for the first time on Nov. 1. If you want to check it out, it will be open from 4 to 6 p.m.

The automotive facility includes a redesigned space, two new car lifts and new technology for students to learn how to work on hybrid vehicles. The remodeling also provided additional welding booths, increasing their number from 17 to 29. It includes a new machine that provides welding students with immediate feedback on their work.

School officials say the facility will provide UCC students with up-to-date industry training and local employment opportunities as well.

For more information, click here.
OREGON -- Discussion surrounding the vaccination of young children continues after FDA advisers voted Tuesday to recommend the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5 to 11.

RELATED: FDA ADVISERS VOTE TO RECOMMEND PFIZER'S VACCINE FOR CHILDREN 5 TO 11



Parents are sharing their thoughts about the impact of their children soon becoming eligible.

Autumn Lovell -- parent of a 6, 13 and 23 year old -- said when the conversation began about the possibility for younger children to receive the vaccine, she wasnt hesitant.

I felt like school shouldnt have started until they had those vaccines ready, Lovell said. Now I feel like schools are going to be able to be safe. My family's going to be able to be safe. It's a big deal.

She said two family members have autoimmune issues.

This is the opportunity possibly for my kids to actually attend regular classroom programs, Lovell said. One of them for the first time in his life because he should have been a kindergartner the first year of COVID.

Lovell is excited because she said once her youngest is vaccinated, that's a chance for him to get back to some normalcy.

At 4, he was just starting to have those fun social interactions that kids need and everything shut down, Lovell said. So it's his chance to actually go on a family vacation or actually go to a classroom within a neighborhood school.

Romelia Gutierrez-Beckers 8-year-old could soon be eligible. She said the news couldnt come fast enough.

I'm really excited and really wanting to get him vaccinated as soon as possible, Gutierrez-Becker said. Well probably be the first in line to get him vaccinated.

She, too, is looking forward to normalcy for her children. She shared that her 12-year-old son missed his sixth grade year on-campus due to COVID. Her son said he wants to get back to being with his friends and also wants to protect his father who has blood cancer.

On his 12th birthday, that was his request to get his COVID vaccine, Gutierrez-Becker said. We went to Walgreens, and he got a shot. He is very adamant. We don't push. We don't really talk about it too much, but he has a very strong mindset where he's said I believe in science and I want to get protected.

Many feel much differently when it comes to COVID-19 vaccination for young children.

Leave the kids alone! one Facebook user wrote. Absolutely not, another said.

Moving forward, the FDA will take the committee's vote under consideration. Then vaccine advisers to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention will meet next week to discuss the decision and decide whether to recommend that children get the vaccine. The final word will come from CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky, and vaccination could begin next week if she gives the go-ahead.
Do you know a person or family who is in need of a new ride? Submit them here and they could win a pre-owned 2018 Chevrolet Trax LT AWD.
FILE - In this Dec. 24, 2020, file photo, a COVID-19 vaccination record card is shown at Seton Medical Center in Daly City, Calif. Los Angeles leaders are poised to enact one of the nation's strictest vaccine mandates, a sweeping measure that would require the shots for everyone entering a bar, restaurant, nail salon, gym or even a Lakers game. The City Council on Wednesday, Oct. 6, 2021, is scheduled to consider the proposal and most members have said they support it as a way of preventing further COVID-019 surges. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu, File)
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GARNER, Iowa  A Hancock County drug dealer gets a 25-year prison sentence.

Jeffrey Paul Reichardt, 52 of Garner, was suspected of bringing methamphetamine into the area roughly every two weeks since May 2020 and selling it to other individuals. Court documents state he was pulled over in Garner on February 2 and a search of his vehicle turned up 28 grams of meth, roughly a gram of marijuana, and a glass drug pipe.

Law enforcement says an additional search of Reichardts home turned up about one gram of meth, two grams of marijuana, multiple glass pipes, small plastic baggies, and a scale.

Reichardt pleaded guilty to class B felony controlled substance violation. He was sentenced Tuesday to 25 years behind bars and fined $5,000. Court documents state Reichardt must serve at least four years in prison before being eligible for parole.
MASON CITY, Iowa - No matter where you go, the 'now hiring' signs are still up.

Despite the unemployment rate improving in Iowa, down to 4.1% in August, many employers are still finding it challenging to fill open positions.

At the state-run Iowa Works, operations manager James Arvidson has heard from employers about these struggles. Some job seekers say a lack of childcare is keeping them out of the workforce.

"Our state has been one of the top states in the country for dual income families. I think there's a lot of people out there who may have found ways to make it work with going back down to one income. They're looking for a place for the kids to go before they can even think about the second spouse going back to work."

And some folks feel that now is the perfect time to make a change.

"People have taken this time to really reassess their values and work life balance, and even career choices."

Arvidson says an increasing number of employers are offering on the job training to get workers on board quickly.

"Employers, now more than they've been in a long time, are willing to take a good candidate who's a motivated person, who's willing to learn and show them the ropes. They know now that if we can find the right person, we can train them in house or we can work with them and a community college to do something like a registered apprenticeship or some type of work based learning. Employers are really going that route these days."

Iowa Works was one of several partners at Monday morning's Iowa Workforce Development roundtable, part of a series of meetings with organizations around the state to address Iowa's workforce shortage. One of the other participants in the roundtable along was NIACC. As the dean of continuing education and economic development, and of the newly branded Business and Workforce Solutions, Patti Hanson says there are apprenticeship programs, including available funding to offset the cost of training (for both new and existing employees), and short-term certificate training available through the school to get people into the workforce sooner.

"They have some of those basic foundational skills. We can get them in and get them out in a short amount of time with those skills."

Hanson believes the combination of NIACC, Iowa Works, K-12 education, and businesses can address and close the worker vacancy gap.

"If all of these players work together, I think we're going to find that success to really impact the needs and gaps and challenges of the workforce."
CHARLES CITY, Iowa  A man enters an Alford plea to child sex abuse in Floyd County.

James Tyrone Teel, 32 of Iowa City, was arrested for having sexual contact with a child in the bathroom of a Charles City business.

Hes now submitted an Alford plea to one count of second-degree sexual abuse. An Alford plea means Teel is not admitting guilt but concedes he could be convicted at trial and agrees to accept sentencing, which is now scheduled for December 6.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  A judge has ordered two Twin Cities rental companies and their officers to pay $736,000 to nearly two dozen women over allegations that one landlord pressured the tenants for sex to avoid eviction.

The consent decree filed in federal court directs Fruen & Pfeiffer and M. Fruen Properties and individual defendants to pay $32,000 to each of the 23 women and pay a $14,000 civil penalty.

The primary defendants, 70-year-old Reese Pfeiffer, is banned from managing property in the future.

In a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Justice Department last year, Pfeiffer was accused of various acts of sexual harassment as far back as 2009 and continuing well into 2020 toward female tenants.
MASON CITY, Iowa  One of the men accused of a break-in and stabbing is going to prison.

Nicolas Lee Durarte, 22 of Mason City, has pleaded guilty to willful injury causing serious injury. Hes been sentenced to 10 years in prison and fined $1,370.



Nicholas Sage Nicholas Sage

Authorities say Duarte and Nicholas Dennis Sage, 23 of Britt, broke into an apartment in the 400 block of N. Madison Avenue in Mason City on June 18. Investigators say Sage held onto someone while Duarte tried to stab the victim in the chest. Court documents state Duarte wound up stabbing that person in the arm.

Sage has pleaded not guilty to first-degree burglary and has a trial set to start on December 14. However, court documents have been filed stating that Sage has agreed to a plea deal. No hearing on that matter has been scheduled.
ALBERT LEA, Minn.  A woman accused of getting meth through the mail is pleading guilty.

Marivel Ramos, 46, was arrested in February and charged with first-degree possession of methamphetamine. Court documents indicate Ramos was involved in a conspiracy where she sent packages full of cash to California and received packages full of meth.

Investigators say three of the packages sent to Marivel were opened and inside were teddy bears containing a total of 10.5 pounds of methamphetamine

Ramos has pleaded guilty to second-degree possession of meth and is scheduled to be sentenced on January 10, 2020, in Freeborn County District Court.
Shenandoah, IA (51601)

Today

A mix of clouds and sun during the morning will give way to cloudy skies this afternoon. High near 55F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Cloudy skies early, followed by partial clearing. Low 34F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
Police believe they found the body of Elijah Lewis, a New Hampshire boy who went missing over a month ago.
FDA could authorize a Covid-19 vaccine for kids by this week. Here's the most important thing to do while we wait, CDC director says
Timothy Sullins has been sentenced to 4 years in the Department of Corrections.
Samsung chief Lee Jae-yong



By Kim Yoo-chul



When the justice ministry decided to parole Samsung Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong, local politicians and senior government officials were expecting an expanded role for the Samsung leader in striking COVID-19 vaccine supply deals with the United States.



Justice Minister Park Beom-kye told reporters that his ministry decided to parole Lee because of mounting concerns over the country's economic situation. Later, Cheong Wa Dae said that it had decided to parole him despite criticism, due to growing calls from the public for Samsung to play a role in addressing semiconductor and vaccine shortage issues.



Since his release from prison, Lee has been maintaining a low profile and refrained from commenting on issues facing Samsung. But as it has been a year since his father Samsung Chairman Lee Kun-hee's death and with Seoul's planned shift to a "Living with COVID-19" scheme from Nov. 1, the health ministry has granted emergency approval for the use of Moderna's coronavirus vaccine, manufactured by Samsung Biologics at its manufacturing plant in Songdo, west of Seoul.



Some 2.44 million doses of the shots are already being stored at Samsung Biologics' warehouse in Korea.



"The domestic use of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccines cost a lot for Samsung Biologics, because the initial contract signed by the two firms had called for Samsung Biologics to distribute the Moderna vaccines in Asia and not in South Korea. But as a support measure for the country's efforts to kick off the 'Living with COVID-19' initiative as scheduled, Samsung's top management reached a consensus to cover any costs related to the domestic use of Moderna's COVID-19 vaccines," a senior industry executive told The Korea Times, Tuesday.



In May, U.S. President Joe Biden said that he and President Moon Jae-in had agreed on forming a comprehensive partnership for COVID-19 vaccines. Following that agreement, Samsung reached a "fill and finish" deal with Moderna. Samsung's assigned task is to put vaccines into vials, as well as seal and package them for shipping. The deal does not allow Samsung to produce the Moderna vaccine.



Regarding the specific role that Lee played behind the scenes, Samsung representatives declined to comment. The country has reached its earlier goal of fully vaccinating over 70 percent of its population, which was a key prerequisite for the government to ease social distancing measures.



"In order to ensure the stable working of the semiconductor supply chain, the United States can't rely on Taiwan's TSMC. Given lots of variables, such as Samsung's planned semiconductor investment in Texas, it's fair to say that semiconductors seemed to have made contributions in terms of helping Samsung gain an upper hand in vaccine talks," Lee Seung-woo, the chief of research at Eugene Investment, said.



Lee will soon fly to the United States to finalize major investment decisions that had been pending while he was in prison for being found guilty of bribing former President Park Geun-hye. Sources say that Lee's itinerary includes a meeting with Moderna's CEO and discussions on how further to develop business ties between the two companies. Samsung Biologics was hoping to obtain COVID-19 vaccine production know-how from Moderna, while the U.S. drug maker is apparently unwilling to accept such an arrangement due to intellectual property rights.




By Josep Borrell and Virginijus Sinkevicius





Josep Borrell Virginijus Sinkevicius
By Jang Daul





The global hit Korean drama, "Squid Game,'' on Netflix is a hot topic in Korean society these days.



People see the success of "Squid Game" as another example of the Korean Wave (hallyu), the rise in the global popularity of Korean culture, following BTS, Blackpink and "Parasite."



This situation reminds me of the text, "The Country I Want," written by Kim Gu, one of the most respected Korean independence movement leaders and politicians.



In his autobiography, in the part called, "My wish," he wrote as follows: "I want our country to be the most beautiful in the world, not the most wealthy or powerful. Because I have felt the pain of being invaded by another country, I do not want my country to invade others. It is sufficient that our wealth makes our lives abundant and our strength is able to prevent foreign invasions. The only thing I wish for in infinite quantity is the power of a noble culture. This is because the power of culture both makes us happy and gives happiness to others."



Apparently, I am not the only one who is reminded of him, while witnessing the rise of Korean culture worldwide, as RM, a member of BTS, also once quoted the same words of Kim Gu.



It is a good feeling that the culture of my country is now receiving praise and recognition globally. At the same time, as an environmental activist, I want my country to be credited not only for its culture but also for its responsible actions in this era of a global climate emergency.



The latest scientific U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) assessment report warns that the acceleration of climate change so far is already a "code red for humanity."



U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently said, "The world is on a catastrophic pathway to 2.7 degrees of heating," as compared to the agreed goal of limiting it to 1.5 degrees Celsius.



A new WHO report said that climate change is the "single biggest health threat to humanity."



I want my country to be responsible for its climate action, as Greta Thunberg warned, we need to "act as if our house is on fire."



The cumulative emissions of carbon dioxide of my country since the Industrial Revolution (1750-2019) are similar to those of Finland, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, Denmark and Portugal  combined.



The annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from my country were ranked fifth among developed countries in 2018.



The annual carbon dioxide emissions per capita of my country in 2019 ranked fifth among OECD member countries, higher than that of Japan, Germany and the United Kingdom.



The average Korean emits 12 tons of carbon dioxide annually, while the average Thai emits four tons, three tons for the average Vietnamese, two tons each for the average Indonesian and Brazilian, and one ton for the average Filipino.



Coincidentally, the aforementioned developing countries happen to be those with the most K-pop fans, and many of them are also highly ranked in the Global Climate Risk Index by Germanwatch.



Developing countries are less responsible for climate change, but more vulnerable to climate disaster. Therefore, developed countries, including Korea, need to take more responsibility, following the principle of "the polluter pays," in order to ensure climate justice.



As a ratifying party to the Paris Agreement, my country needs to at least decrease its annual GHG emissions by more than 50 percent by 2030 against 2018 levels, and achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. This figure is the average level of climate action required by every country in the world.



If my country wants to be proportionately responsible as one of the major GHG emitters, with its high per capita emissions, and as an industrialized, high-tech country with the tenth-largest economy, then Korea needs to decrease its emissions more than 70 percent by 2030 compared to 2018 levels.



Furthermore, this level of commitment on Korea's part is necessary to ensure climate justice compared to those countries that love Korean culture but suffer from the deteriorating global climate more than Korea, due to our much bigger contribution to climate change.



However, on Oct. 18, Korea's Presidential Committee on Carbon Neutrality ultimately decided to reduce annual GHG emissions by 40 percent by 2030 compared to 2018 levels.



The 40-percent reduction target is far less than the proportional responsibility Korea has for climate action and even less than the scientifically required, average reduction level.



The 40-percent target is a clear renunciation of the Paris Agreement. If the other countries follow levels of reduction similar to Korea's, we will never be able to limit the increase of the global average temperature to within 1.5 degrees.



In other words, the reduced target shows clearly that the Korean government is not going to take care of or be responsible for its own as well as the rest of the world's people, especially those living in climate-vulnerable countries.



If Kim Gu had been alive, he would not have been very happy with the fact that his country finally has cultural soft power but remains a climate villain.





Jang Daul (daul.jang@greenpeace.org) is a government relations and advocacy specialist at Greenpeace East Asia's Seoul Office.


(ST. JOSEPH, Mo) Mindy Andrasevits has served 2 different stints with the St. Joseph Fire Department.

"Well this is my hometown, and I love this community, actually love it. Came back to town and bought my dream house and settled in," said Andrasevits.

She even became the first female fire inspector with the St. Joseph Fire Department, paving the way for other firefighters to follow.

"Well I started out in 1996 as the first woman firefighter on the St. Joe Fire Department," said Andrasevits. "I was the only woman on the department in 2017 when I came back to the department. But they have since hired a hand full of women and they are doing fantastic."

After a successful career serving the St. Joseph area, Andrasevits will set out for another opportunity after being named the Fire Chief in Eudora, Kansas.

"Start out as a firefighter and you work your way up and you get to a point where you want to move on to a leadership position or you continue on the front lines," said Andrasevits.

She will miss things from St. Joseph, especially those who are trying to make her hometown a better place.

"It's been wonderful working side by side with those people trying to do good things in the city. That's the best part, that's what I'll miss most is the networking and the partnerships in the community," said Andrasevits.

While she is leaving her hometown, Andrasevits is excited to tackle her next challenge as Fire Chief.

"I'm excited to leave, to begin a new, a new position, in a new community. Like I said, Eudora is a very progressive little town that plans ahead, which is really nice," said Andrasevits.
Guess who is going to Disney World? The principal at Queensborough Elementary School, that's who!
GILLETTE, Wyo. (AP)  A man in Wyoming allegedly tried getting out of a drunken driving charge by claiming his 4-year-old son was behind the wheel.

Campbell County sheriff's deputies pulled the 39-year-old man over Saturday. They were responding to a report he'd been fighting with a woman, sheriff's Lt. Paul Pownall said.

The man had driven off by the time deputies arrived but they caught up with him and his two sons, aged 4 and 15, in his pickup truck later, the Gillette News Record reported.

The man said his 4-year-old son was sitting on his lap and was the one driving, sheriff's officials said. They say the man refused field sobriety and breath tests.

Deputies arrested him on suspicion of driving under the influence, violating probation and driving without a required device on his vehicle used to detect alcohol, Pownall said.
BUTTE, Mont. -- On Saturday morning, Montana Tech students traded in their pens and notebooks for gloves and garbage bags to lend a hand for the second annual Make a Difference Day, a new tradition in Butte that celebrates giving back to the Mining City.

And it wasn't just students; over 100 total volunteers from the school and community met at the Montana Tech courtyard at 9 a.m. before walking through the streets of Uptown Butte, picking up litter at every opportunity.

Make a Difference Day is in its second year of action, and Montana Tech student Kylie Godfrey, who helped organize the event, hopes that this new yearly tradition will last for years to come.

"This was a big collaborative effort between Montana Tech and the community to get everything put together, and to get all the volunteers organized and ready to go," Godfrey said. "We got some awesome T-shirts here, we got some breakfast food for volunteers... we just wanted to make it a really good event so that people keep coming back to make it bigger and bigger each year."

Dumpsters, gloves, bags and other supplies were provided by Parks and Recreation and BSB Community Enrichment.
"Javelina, coyotes, deer and even bears eat some of the vegetables that are part of traditional holiday displays," said Regional Supervisor Raul Vega of Arizona Game and Fish in Tucson. "When displayed outdoors, they may attract wildlife to homes, potentially creating conflicts with people."
Have you seen the proposed redistricting maps for New Hampshire? What do you think of the plans?
During a visit to Racine's Gateway Technical College Campus Friday, U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin said she had not given up on her efforts to include America's College Promise Act in the Build Back Better Budget... despite setbacks.
Do you really need all that sugar and salt in canning? Often the answer is no, but you should be aware of the role each plays in preserving food.
For many wildlife biologists across the U.S., feral hogs have proved to be a formidable foe that can withstand weather extremes and proliferate, posing a disease risk to domestic swine and wildlife.
New Delhi, Oct 26 (PTI) There are cyber security organisations in the country but no central body responsible for safety in the online space, a top cyber security official said on Tuesday.

National Cyber Security Coordinator (NCSC) Rajesh Pant also said the proposed national cyber security strategy will address this gap in the security framework.

Also Read | UKSSSC Admit Cards 2021 Released for Various Posts, Candidates Can Download Their Admit Cards Online at sssc.uk.gov.in.

He said India has excellent organisations and there has been "fantastic" transformation in the cyber security space in the country in the last one year.

"By and large, a framework is in place but there is no central apex organisation today in terms of allocation of business rules. There is no ministry or organisation to which you can say you are responsible for the cyber security of the nation.

Also Read | Lalu Prasad Yadav Can Get Me Shot, But Cannot Do Anything Else, Says Bihar CM Nitish Kumar.

"That is the first thing that we have to tackle and that is one of the major deliverables of the strategy," Pant said at a virtual cyber security dialogue organised by Microsoft.

He noted that the government has been working on a cyber security framework that was developed in 2013.

"Now what is required is cyber security strategy. It is before the Cabinet for the final stamp. We need a governance structure. Today if you see the way we are working under different ministries, we have got excellent organisations," Pant said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2020 had announced that a new cyber security strategy will be presented to the nation as dependence on cyberspace will increase multi-fold in the coming years.

"That is the first thing that we are waiting for. Strategy is an action oriented plan. It gives the objective. It gives who will deliver that objective. It gives funding for the objective and it gives a timeline for achievement of that objective and it covers the next 5 years," Pant said.

According to official estimates, India suffered a loss of around Rs 1.24 lakh crore in 2020 due to cyber attacks.

Pant said cyber attacks increased by 500 per cent during the pandemic due to adoption of digitisation and India has been one of the most attacked nations.

"We found more than 30 per cent (attacks) were from the US," he added.

He said cyber criminals route their attack through three-four different destinations and the last point has been found to be in the US for several attacks.

"Last hop is a country which has very good relations, firstly which is a democracy and has strong privacy laws. If you get the last IP and if it is Azure or Google cloud server in the US, it is not easy to get information from them because there are a lot of clients and they have privacy rights.

"Countries like the USA, Netherlands, Germany which have strong privacy laws were utilised as last hop for the attacks," Pant said.

He pointed out that there was no major impact on big sectors but financial crime did increase and there was a 150 per cent rise in ransomware attacks.

Pant also said international rules are not very helpful in tackling cyber crimes but a group of 32 countries, including India, have come together to handle the ransomware menace.

The group is focussing on improving network security and resilience, measures to deal with illicit finance, disrupt networks of criminals and handle cyber diplomacy.

He also said India has developed its own malware repository similar to Google's Singapore based entity VirusTotal on which malwares issues get reported.

"VirusTotal is now getting all the data of the malware which is available in India and organisations also which may not be the best thing for national security. We have created our own national malware repository. It is in the final phase of beta testing and we have already got 75 million samples in that repository," Pant said.

Microsoft India General Counsel Keshav Dhakad said the company has a 'global attack surface' to map that data and it gets 8.3 trillion threat signals a day which helps it in assessing the way new threats are evolving. These are leveraged for doing analytics, patching, and sharing intelligence with partners and governments.

"India is part of the government security program and we have been working with the government for many years and the Digital Crimes Unit is about using that intelligence to identify where the signal came from which nation, which city it came from and to be able to take legal action against them.

"We've worked with the CBI, FBI, Department of Justice, Europol, Interpol in taking down many criminal networks," he said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, October 26: Ahead of upcoming State Assembly Elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi will visit Goa on October 30 to begin the poll campaign in the state, sources said on Tuesday.

According to the sources, Rahul will meet fishermen and people affected by the mining ban.

Also Read | Chinas PLA Deploys New Type of All-Terrain Vehicle on Border With India.

Rahul's visit will come during the visit of Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Mamata Banerjee to Goa. Her maiden visit will begin on October 28 and end on November 1 ahead of Goa assembly polls.

She also urged the political parties to join TMC to defeat the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Also Read | Delhi Shocker: Three Arrested for Allegedly Killing Man Over Argument About Payment of Gutka.

Taking to Twitter on Saturday, the TMC chief said, "As I prepare for my maiden visit to Goa on 28th, I call upon all individuals, organisations and political parties to join forces to defeat the BJP and their divisive agenda. The people of Goa have suffered enough over the last 10 years."

Goa Assembly elections are scheduled to be held next year.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
New Delhi, Oct 26 (PTI) NSA Ajit Doval on Tuesday held talks with Secretary of the Security Council of Kyrgyzstan Lt Gen Marat Imankulov on a range of issues including the regional security environment in the backdrop of the situation in Afghanistan, government sources said.

In the talks, the two sides agreed to boost cooperation in dealing with terrorism and radicalisation, they said.

Also Read | Jammu and Kashmir: Arms, Ammunition Recovered by Security Forces in Poonch.

The discussions took place at the first India-Kyrgyzstan strategic dialogue between the national security council secretariats of the two countries.

Lt Gen Imankulov visited India for the dialogue.

Also Read | Chinas PLA Deploys New Type of All-Terrain Vehicle on Border With India.

"The two sides held discussions on threats and challenges facing both countries as well as the regional security environment, with special reference to Afghanistan," a source said.

"The two sides welcomed the similarity of views on these matters, and agreed upon steps to enhance bilateral security cooperation between the relevant bodies, including in the fields of counter-terrorism, combating radicalisation, narcotics control and defence cooperation," it said.

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Bhubaneswar (Odisha) [India], October 26 (ANI): Odisha government on Monday resumed the physical classes of standard 8th students, after 18 months gap due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Students were excited and overjoyed with the resumption of physical classes as they will be able to interact without complexities involved with the internet connection.

Also Read | AY.4: COVID-19 Delta Variant Sub-Lineage Cases Raises Concern in India, Says NCDC Report.

"The students are very happy. Out of 400 students of class 8th, around 250 students have joined the normal classes today," said a school teacher in Bhubaneswar.

"I am very excited to sit in the classroom after a gap of a year. We used to attend online classes, but from today will continue our physical classes. I have met with my old friends and also made new friends today," a student said.

Also Read | Xiaomi Redmi Note 11 Series Launch on October 28: What We Know So Far.

"The guidelines that have been issued for classes 9th, 10th and 12th, the same guideline and the protocols would be adhered by the schools after the classes for 8 and 11 reopen," said the School and Mass Education Minister Samir Ranjan Dash earlier in October.

Classroom teaching for students of classes 9 and 12 have already been resumed in the State with strict adherence to health safety guidelines.

Prior to the reopening of the schools for classes 10 and 12, the government has decided to vaccinate all teachers against COVID-19 on priority and district education officers have been instructed to ensure that COVID guidelines are followed. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Kabul [Afghanistan], October 26 (ANI): Dozens of women came out on the streets of Kabul on Tuesday to protest against the closure of schools for girls and slammed the international community for their inaction about what is going on in Afghanistan.

Women gathered at the gates of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) in Kabul, Khaama Press News Agency reported.

Also Read | Jeff Bezos Blue Origin To Build A Private Space Station By 2030.

They accused the international community, human rights groups, and the United Nations of indifference to the treatment meted towards Afghan women by the Taliban.

Terming UN silence on women's rights issues "shameful", the protestors chanted "right to education, rights to work are fundamental rights of women" and "history will be ashamed of the silence of the UN".

Also Read | Sinicization Movement In China: Chinese Authorities Remove Domes, Islamic Symbols From Mosques Across Country.

This protest comes as millions of teenage girls across the country are anxiously waiting to return to the classroom, as high schools continue to remain closed, raising fears about the future of female education.

Earlier today, UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan Deborah Lyons met women from provinces across Afghanistan and heard their views on the considerable challenges facing women in the country.

"Women from provinces across #Afghanistan met Monday in Kabul with @DeborahLyonsUN & @Metknu to share views on the considerable challenges facing women in the country. All agreed that every girl has a right to education and every woman the right to work," UNAMA tweeted.

Last week, Lyons had met with Taliban leaders and discussed humanitarian aid, human rights and inclusive government. (ANI)

(This is an unedited and auto-generated story from Syndicated News feed, LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body)
Mumbai, Oct 26: The Maharashtra government on Tuesday issued an order allowing the common people, irrespective of the nature of their jobs, who are vaccinated fully against COVID-19 to board suburban trains in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).

In this order, the state government has extended the definition of fully vaccinated people to cover even those people who are working in non-essential sectors. This means people who have taken both the doses of vaccines against COVID-19 and completed 14 days after inoculation can travel in local trains. Mumbai Local Trains Update: Central Railway and Western Railway Services to Resume 100% from October 28.

The government also stated that the people working in essential sectors must be fully vaccinated and should have completed the 14 days post-inoculation before they can be allowed to board local trains.

Currently, the Central Railway and the Western Railway have been issuing a monthly pass to vaccinated commuters instead of daily tickets to curtail the crowd.

Notably, both the railways on Monday said suburban services in Mumbai will be operated at the 100 per cent capacity of the pre-pandemic level from October 28, but the existing travel restrictions for the general public will remain unchanged.

This decision was taken considering the increased flow of commuters, an official said on Monday.

Central Railway and Western Railway will run 1,774 and 1,367 services, respectively, on their suburban network from October 28. The zonal railways used to operate these many services before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Currently, Central Railway and Western Railway are operating 1,702 and 1,304 suburban services, respectively, which is 95.70 per cent of the total suburban services in the normal period.

Till now, only government employees and essential services staffers are allowed to travel on suburban trains, apart from the fully-vaccinated citizens, who have completed the 14 days after the second dose and those who are below 18 years.

After the outbreak of the pandemic, the suburban services were completely stopped from March 22, 2020. Later railways began suburban services for essential service categories as identified by the Maharashtra government and approved by the Ministry of Railways from June 15, 2020.

Suburban locals are considered the lifeline of Mumbai. Nearly 80 lakh passengers used to travel on the suburban locals before the COVID-19 pandemic.

The COVID-19 graph is also slowing down in Maharashtra. The state on Monday reported 889 COVID-19 cases, the lowest number in a day since May 5, 2020, and 12 fresh fatalities, the least number of one-day death count in more than 18 months, a health department official had said.
Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday said that few civilians were injured in grenade attack. The terrorists lobbed a grenade at civilians in the Sumbal bridge area of Bandipora. Further details are awaited.

A few civilians were injured when terrorists lobbed a grenade in the Sumbal bridge area of Bandipora today; Details awaited: Jammu and Kashmir Police pic.twitter.com/Nqqmf88c6d  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2021

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
#Israel has lifted an official travel warning for trips to #Morocco which has been in effect for the past 10 years.



Photo: IANS (File) pic.twitter.com/j5BI6Nth9t IANS Tweets (@ians_india) October 26, 2021

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
West Bengal | Police on Monday said that an illegal arms factory was busted in Asansol & a cache of weapons were seized



Weapons were being manufactured at a house. Two people have been detained: DCP West, Asansol-Durgapur Police Commissionerate Abhishek Modi pic.twitter.com/rbND3rBCO8 ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2021

(SocialLY brings you all the latest breaking news, viral trends and information from social media world, including Twitter, Instagram and Youtube. The above post is embeded directly from the user's social media account and LatestLY Staff may not have modified or edited the content body. The views and facts appearing in the social media post do not reflect the opinions of LatestLY, also LatestLY does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)
The initial autopsy for Brian Laundrie's remains has come out inconclusive, determining no manner or cause of death for the main person of interest for Gabby Petito's case. The Laundrie family lawyer, Steven Bertolino, said he was not given a timeline for when the forensic anthropologist will conclude the evaluation for Laundrie's remains.

Laundrie's remains were sent to a forensic anthropologist for further examination. Bertolino said that he will be ultimately cremated, according to an NBC News report. However, the Laundrie family has no immediate plans for holding a funeral for the remains of their fugitive son. Bertolino added that they may decide on a private ceremony later.

Laundrie's parents, Christopher and Roberta, had left their home for the first time since police informed them that their son was found dead.

News crews were swarming the two when they hopped in their vehicle, with Chris telling them to "let me grieve with my family," according to a Daily Mail report.

Chris had put on "no trespassing" signs into his lawn on Saturday.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation had confirmed that Laundrie was dead on Thursday. Bertolino said that the Laundrie family is grieving privately somewhere in Florida.

The medical examiner's office had declined to comment on the matter, as well as the FBI office in Denver that is leading the investigation, according to a Newsweek report.

READ NEXT: Brian Laundrie's Autopsy Complete but No Manner or Cause of Death Determined; Skeletal Remains Sent to Anthropologist

Brian Laundrie's Remains and Manhunt

Laundrie's remains were found in a nature preserve nearby his family home in North Port, Florida. A notebook and backpack were located near Laundrie's body, in an area that was previously swamped with water three feet deep, according to a People report.

Newsweek reported that no information has yet been released on what investigators found in a backpack and notebook with Laundrie's remains.

Laundrie was named a person of interest in Petito's disappearance on September 15. His family had refused to cooperate with authorities. Police said that they told them to direct all questions to their attorney.

The Laundrie family had also wanted to alert investigators that their son had gone missing too, claiming that he was last seen on September 13. Laundrie's parents alleged that their son had left their home to hiking in the nearby Carlton Reserve.

Meanwhile, Bertolino rejected claims that the family knew their son might disappear of that they struck a deal with prosecutors to help in the search. Bertolino added that as their attorney, he had advised the parents not to speak with law enforcement.

Petito and Laundrie were traveling across the country, posting their trips in their van on social media. Laundrie returned to his parents' home without Petito on September 1, prompting the search for Petito.

NBC News reported that Mab City, Utah police had released a body camera showing a distraught Petito after an alleged altercation with Laundrie.

Petito's body was discovered on September 19 in a Wyoming nature preserve, with her death being ruled as a homicide.

A Wyoming coroner noted that her cause of death was by manual strangulation and had been dead for at least three weeks.

READ MORE: Brian Laundrie Manhunt: Parents of Gabby Petito's Fiance Change the Date of Florida Fugitive's Disappearance

This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Brian Laundrie's parents not planning funeral for son, family attorney says - from 10 Tampa Bay






The offspring of Pablo Escobar's "Cocaine Hippos" could now be recognized as people after a United States federal judge granted them legal rights.

Cocaine Hippos Receive Personhood Status

According to U.S. News, based on the federal court order, the hippos owned by Colombia's drug kingpin could now be called "interested persons." Federal Magistrate Judge Karen Litkovitz in Cincinnati granted the request on October 15.

The said case involved a lawsuit against the Colombian government over whether they would kill or sterilize the "cocaine hippos" whose numbers were growing at a fast pace and posed a threat to biodiversity and people nearby.

Moreover, an animal rights group considered the order as a milestone victory in the long-sought efforts to sway the U.S. justice system to grant animals personhood status.

In the suit, attorneys for the Animal Legal Defense Fund asked the U.S. District Court in Cincinnati to give the "cocaine hippos" the "interested persons" status so that the two wildlife experts in sterilization from Ohio could be deposed in the case.

The group's attorneys argued that the advocates for the hippos could bring the lawsuits to protect their interests in Colombia, targeting the hippos to be considered "interested persons" under U.S. law.

The animal rights group based close to San Francisco said that they believed that it was the first time animals have been declared legal persons in the U.S.

The group's lead attorney for the Animal Legal Defense Fund called it a narrow but profound ruling.

READ MORE: Pablo Escobar's 'Cocaine Hippos' 'Sterilized' After Bringing Threat to Humans; Colombian Government Makes Cocaine Hippos Infertile Due to Alarming Population

U.S. Court Order Means Nothing in Colombia, Expert Says

The group pointed to a federal statute that allows anyone who is an "interested person" in a foreign lawsuit to ask a federal court to permit them in taking the depositions in the U.S. in support of their case. However, a legal expert said that the order would not carry any weight in Colombia where the hippos live.

Camilo Burbano Cifuentes, a criminal law professor at the Universidad Externado de Colombia, shared that the ruling has no impact in Colombia because it would only have an impact within the U.S. Cifuentes emphasized that the final say on the issue would be on the Colombian government and not by the Americans.

The "cocaine hippos" were descendants of animals that Escobar illegally imported to his Colombian ranch "Hacienda Napoles" in the 1980s when he reigned over the drug trade in Colombia.

However, after Pablo Escobar died in a 1993 shootout with authorities, the hippos were abandoned at the estate and were left to thrive with no natural predators.

Despite living in nature after being nurtured by the drug kingpin, their numbers have increased in the last eight years, which started from 35 to somewhere between 65 and 80.

Also, a group of scientists has warned that the "cocaine hippos" posed a major threat not only to the area's biodiversity but also could lead to deadly encounters with humans. The group was advocating for some of the animals to be killed, but a government agency has started sterilizing some of the hippos. The sterilization sparked debate on what were the safest methods for the "cocaine hippos."

READ NEXT: Mexican Drug Cartels Recruit Children as Young as 10 and Groom Them to Be Killers

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Written by: Jess Smith

WATCH: Imported 'Cocaine Hippos' Running Wild In Colombia | TODAY


U.S. President Joe Biden's administration has rolled out updated COVID travel requirements, ordering airlines to check U.S.-bound air travelers' proof of COVID vaccine status, while those unvaccinated will have to present a negative COVID test.

The travel requirements also include travelers to provide contact information to federal officials, according to a CNBC News report.

The Biden administration said earlier this month that it intends to lift COVID restrictions prohibiting travelers from more than 30 countries on November 8. The administration noted that it will allow vaccinated travelers.

The new rules will be applied to foreign visitors, including those coming to the United States from countries that were not on the prohibited list.

READ NEXT: CDC: Unvaccinated Essential Workers to Go Through "Education and Counseling"

Biden Administration's Travel Requirements

Children under 18 will not be required to be fully vaccinated due to the delays in making them eligible to receive the vaccine. However, they will still need to take a COVID test unless they are two or younger, according to an Associated Press News report.

Other groups exempted from the vaccination requirement are those people who participated in the COVID clinical trials; those who had severe allergic reactions to the vaccines; and those from a country where vaccines are not widely available.

The U.S. will accept any vaccine approved for regular or emergency use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the World Health Organization, which includes Pfizer, Moderna, Johnson & Johnson, AstraZeneca, and China's Sinopharm and Sinovac.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention quarantine officers will check passengers who arrive in the U.S. for compliance.

A $35,000 per violation will be imposed on airlines that don't enforce those travel requirements.

Transportation Secretary Gina Raimondo said on Monday that the United States is open for business with all the promise and potential America has to offer.

Officials said that there will be testing accommodations for travelers with documented recovery from COVID within the preceding 90 days, according to a USA Today report.

Mexico and Canada Borders

Earlier this month, the U.S. announced that it will reopen its land borders with Mexico and Canada to fully vaccinated travelers from November, according to a BBC News report.

Meanwhile, unvaccinated travelers will still be banned from entering the U.S. from Mexico and Canada by land.

The U.S. has prohibited travel from Mexico and Canada since March 2020.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said in a statement that they will be taking the steps to open regular travel in a safe and sustainable manner.

DHS noted that the approach will give essential travelers time to get vaccinated.

Canada opened its borders to fully vaccinated travelers from the U.S. on August 9, while Mexico's border has remained open throughout the whole duration of the pandemic.

New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand said that the reopening will be welcome news to businesses, medical providers, families, and loved ones that were depending on travel on the reopening of the borders.

Essential travelers, such as students, truck drivers, U.S. citizens, and health care workers were not banned from crossing land borders.

However, come January 2022, they will also be required to show proof of their vaccination status.

READ MORE: Pres. Joe Biden Says He Personally Phoned Emergency Room for a Good Friend During a COVID Vaccine Mandate Talk

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WATCH: US to end travel bans for vaccinated passengers 'early November' - from FRANCE 24 English






A shooting that occurred in a shopping mall in Idaho killed at least two and injured four others on Monday.

The incident occurred at the Boise Town Square Mall in Idaho, as Boise Police responded to reports of shots fired in the area around 2 p.m., The Daily Mail reported.

Boise Police chief, Ryan Lee, said that officers found somebody who matched the suspect's description as their officers engaged in an exchange of gunfire resulting in the suspect's arrest, according to a CBS News report.

READ NEXT: California Senator Aims to Ban Live Guns on Movie Set Following Alec Baldwin Accidental Shooting

Idaho Shooting Victimizes 6, Including Two People Dead

At least two individuals were killed as the shooter opened fire in the Idaho mall on Monday afternoon. Four other individuals were reportedly injured, including a police officer who was hurt during the exchange of gunfire with the suspect. The said officer was released from the hospital.

The two individuals who died were among the six individuals who were initially reported as injured in the wake of the shooting incident, NBC News reported. The officers did not provide additional details on the victims of the recent Idaho mall shooting. Chief Lee shared that they are working to notify the families of the said victims before releasing their names.

Meanwhile, Boise police said on Monday night that the suspect, who was wounded during the exchange of gunfire with the officers, was in critical condition, New York Post reported.

Officers believe that the shooter acted alone on the scene, as Chief Lee pointed out that the motive for the shooting is still unclear.

"Again, this is an ongoing investigation. We really, at this time, can not see any motivation behind it [shooting]," Lee stressed.

People Locked in Idaho Mall During Shooting

As the shooting in Idaho mall occurred, shoppers in the mall reportedly fled to the nearest business to hide from the shooter.

Reports of people locked in a storeroom at the Boise Mall also surfaced on the internet.

My wife is locked in a storeroom at the Boise Mall. There were multiple gun shots. People running everywhere.  Boise, Better (@BoiseBetter) October 25, 2021

A Twitter user identified as @BoiseBetter shared that his wife was locked in the storeroom of the shopping mall.

My wife says shes never going to the mall again.



If you know my wife, thats a big deal.



This was her one day off.



I have full confidence that the Boise police are handling it.  Boise, Better (@BoiseBetter) October 25, 2021

The user shared screenshots of his conversation with his wife, saying that she was with around ten people in the storeroom. The user went on to share what her wife said, claiming that she would never come back to the mall due to the incident.

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean expressed her thoughts on Twitter in the wake of the Idaho mall shooting on Monday.

My heart goes out to those who sheltered in place, those who were witness to this crime and those who had loved ones in the mall. I am deeply sorry for the pain and trauma you've experienced.  Mayor McLean (@boisemayor) October 25, 2021

"My heart goes out to those who sheltered in place, those who were witness to this crime, and those who had loved ones in the mall. I am deeply sorry for the pain and trauma you've experienced." McLean said.

I want to thank the Boise Police Department and other first responders; you can came quickly and showed compassion to so many people who were scared at a really tough moment, and you did everything you could to keep people safe.  Mayor McLean (@boisemayor) October 25, 2021

The Boise mayor went on to thank shopkeepers and others in the mall for taking care of the people present during the shooting. The mayor also expressed her gratitude to the police for showing compassion and keeping the people safe.

Those injured in todays unthinkable shooting at the Boise Towne Square Mall are in my prayers. The State of Idaho stands prepared to assist the Boise Police Department as they investigate the shooting.  Brad Little (@GovernorLittle) October 25, 2021

Meanwhile, Idaho Governor Brad Little said in a statement that their state is prepared to help the Boise Police Department in investigating the Idaho mall shooting.

READ NEXT: U.S. Judge Grants Pablo Escobar's 'Cocaine Hippos' Personhood Status, Legal Rights

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Written By: Joshua Summers

WATCH: At Least 2 People Killed, 4 Others Injured In Shooting At Idaho Mall - From NBC News
A lawyer representing former Sinaloa cartel leader Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman Loera urged a U.S. appeals court on Monday to overturn the Mexican drug kingpin's conviction, citing jury bias and the conditions at a "Supermax" facility.

According to Fox News, El Chapo's defense attorney Marc Fernich and prosecutors delivered oral arguments for over an hour to the panel of judges for the 2nd U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New York.

The said panel would be handing down their decision in a court filing, but it was still not clear when a ruling would be made.

Sinaloa Cartel Boss 'El Chapo' Appeals 2019 Conviction

In oral arguments just before noon, El Chapo's defense attorney argued that the conviction of the Mexican drug kingpin should be sent back to lower courts for further evaluation or overturned completely because his client deserved a new trial.

Fernich cited two reasons for the appeal. First was the conditions and treatment that El Chapo experienced inside the now-closed Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan, New York.

In Fernich's words, the Sinaloa cartel leader's "indefinite pre-conviction solitary confinement in a modern dungeon." The second reason, Fernich said, was a news report that during deliberations, jurors were exposed to salacious claims barred from the trial.

It included a claim that El Chapo had drugged and sexually abused teenage girls he referred to as "vitamins" that gave him energy, which the Sinaloa cartel leader's lawyer has denied.

El Chapo's lawyer noted that the Vice News article also mentioned an unnamed juror who said at least five fellow jurors followed media coverage of the trial, and lied about it to presiding judge U.S. District Judge Brian Cogan, Reuters reported.

"You (have) five jurors who don't know the meaning of an oath... If that doesn't cry out for instant inquiry, I don't know what does," Fernich said.

El Chapo's lawyer noted that the court should order a new trial or call for a hearing on the alleged jury misconduct. He asked the judges to resist any "punitive impulse" toward a person who was cast as a "public enemy," like gangster Al Capone.

Fernich told the court that El Chapo would possibly spend the rest of his life "in a box" and "this is his last shot."

"I'm not asking you to play violins for him... Who can leave this cloud of uncertainty? And in a case of this magnitude? That's not what we do here," Fernich said.

READ NEXT: Sinaloa Cartel Boss Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman Considers Mistresses as 'Vitamins' Who Keep Him Young

El Chapo's Argument About Lower Court Rejected

Assistant U.S. Attorney Hiral Mehta argued the lower court was right to reject the defense request for a hearing on the jury issue since there was no valid evidence of misconduct.

For his part, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brett Reynolds said there was "no dispute that the district court here followed the correct standard," even with El Chapo's history of escaping jail and prison cells.

Reynolds said the Sinaloa cartel boss had already escaped from prison twice in Mexico, adding that El Chapo also had a history of intimidating and killing perceived rivals. The drug kingpin also reportedly run his criminal enterprise while being imprisoned with the help of his wife.

Based on the facts, Reynolds noted that there was no real dispute about the legal standard and there was no basis to overturn the district court's conclusion.

Meanwhile, Circuit Judge Gerard E. Lynch challenged Fernich's characterization that the ex-Sinaloa cartel boss was thrown into a "modern dungeon." Lynch noted that El Chapo's lawyers had constant access to him leading up to the trial so "he's not isolated from the world," and sees "people on a regular basis." The panel will rule at a later date.

El Chapo, 64, is serving a life sentence in prison after being found guilty in 2019 of all 10 federal charges he faced. The Sinaloa cartel boss is currently being held in Colorado's Supermax, the most secure federal prison in the U.S.

READ MORE: Leaders of 3 Mexican Drug Cartels Complain of Harassment, Psychological Torture in Maximum-Security Prison

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Written by: Jess Smith

WATCH: How Insane Is El Chapo New Prison Cell Security? - From Luxury World
Republicans Representative Nancy Mace and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis lashed out on Dr. Anthony Fauci on Monday for funds distributed by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) toward abusive puppy experiments and gain-of-function research at a lab in China.

Fox News reported that Mace from South Carolina sent a letter demanding answers to reports that taxpayer funds from his department paid for research subjecting dogs to abusive and inhumane experimental testing before ultimately killing them.

"What we learned recently is that Dr. Fauci is sending puppies to slaughter basically. I learned a few weeks ago that a grant worth about $1.68 million was spent to take 44 beagle puppies, to take their vocal cords out so the scientists couldn't hear their cries or their barks," Mace told "Fox News Primetime."

She added that the dogs were then drugged, killed, and dissected and spent almost $2 million to "kill 44 beagle puppies." Mace noted that what she found was nothing short of "barbaric and gruesome" experiments.

"These poor dogs killing them with our money. Terrible. We would never do this here in the U.S," the lawmaker said.

Aside from criticizing the puppy experiments connected to Fauci, the Republican representative further noted that if the White House chief medical advisor and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) failed to respond to her letter, she will "have to ratchet it up."

"Dr. Fauci has got to be held accountable for everything he has done to this country in the last years. It's devastating," Mace noted. Fauci is the director of the NIAID, which is a part of the NIH.

READ NEXT: Dr. Fauci Under Fire After Saying It's "Too Soon to Tell" About Christmas Gathering

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Says Anthony Fauci Needs To Be Held Accountable For Puppy Experiments

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis on Monday lambasted Dr. Anthony Fauci for his alleged involvement in the puppy experiments and gain-of-function research in a lab in Wuhan, China.

The Florida governor said Fauci "needs to be held accountable" over the funds distributed by the NIAID for "abusive" animal experiments and gain-of-function research, The Daily Caller reported.

"They're doing cruel experiments on puppies. What they were doing with those puppies is flat-out disgusting, it's despicable, that needs to stop," DeSantis noted.

The Republican governor said he can't believe that the American tax dollars were used to "treat those dogs the way those dogs are treated."

DeSantis added that NIAID should have been banned from the funding and that American tax dollars should be given to "ethical research" rather than the puppy experiments and gain-of-function research.

"I really think Fauci needs to be held accountable," the Florida governor noted.

Anthony Fauci's Connection on Puppy Experiments

A report from watchdog taxpayer group White Coat Waste Project revealed that NIAID funded $1.68 million in taxpayer money towards drug tests on puppies. The experiments reportedly involved 44 beagles locked in cages with hungry sandflies that would eat them alive.

The dogs were being force-fed or injected with an experimental drug before being introduced to biting flies carrying a parasite known to be contagious to humans. After several weeks, the dogs will then be euthanized or dissected and then die due to the experiments.

Fauci has also been under fire over his central role in the gain-of-function of research and for his role in funding coronaviruses research in China in unsafe laboratories.

In an October 21 letter, the NIAID has admitted that they funded gain-of-function research on bat coronaviruses at the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

Fauci has continuously denied that the NIH has funded gain-of-function research in Wuhan to experiment with various variations of coronaviruses in 2019.

READ MORE: Dr. Anthony Fauci Gives Green Light to Kids on Enjoying Halloween

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Written by: Joshua Summers

WATCH: Gravitas: Did Dr. Fauci Fund Wuhan Virus Research? - From WION
The Mexican military has reportedly captured a top Sinaloa Cartel operative known as "El Jaguar" in Chihuahua, Mexico, while also killing Gulf Cartel leader "El Tigre" in Tamaulipas.

According to a 10 Wavy report, an army unit based in Madera, Chihuahua on Friday encountered a firefight with members of a cell of the Sinaloa cartel in La Nortena town that led to the capture of Francisco Arvizu Marquez, alias "El Jaguar," or "The Jaguar."

El Jaguar, who sustained gunshot wounds, was taken into custody with three other alleged drug traffickers.

Who is Sinaloa Cartel Official 'El Jaguar'?

In a statement, the Defense Ministry said the top Sinaloa Cartel official was wanted on charges of organized crime and murder.

The Defense Ministry further noted that El Jaguar was also considered one of the main "generators of violence" in western Chihuahua. The army said it seized high-caliber weapons and ammo from the Mexican drug cartel members.

Local news reports said El Jaguar remained in a Juarez hospital under army custody as of Monday. He was being treated for gunshot wounds to the right shoulder and forearm.

El Jaguar was reported to be flown to a maximum-security prison. State authorities and U.S. security experts noted that El Jaguar led the Sinaloa cartel's Gente Nueva del Jaguar cell.

The group was allegedly involved in a two-year war with Roberto Gonzalez Montes, alias "El Mudo," or "The Mute," of the La Linea cartel to control drug trafficking, illegal logging, and gasoline theft, among others, in western Chihuahua.

Gonzales was arrested last November in connection with the murders of nine American citizens near the Chihuahua-Sonora border.

Security experts and Mexican authorities told Border Report that the La Linea cartel was asserting control over drug trafficking routes into the U.S. in the Nuevo Casas Grandes to Janos region while intruding on some Sinaloa cartel's passageway.

READ NEXT: Mexican Drug Cartel Wave of Gun Violence Leaves 2 Foreign Tourists Dead in Mexico's Bar, Turns More Villages Into Ghost Towns

Gulf Cartel Leader 'El Tigre' Killed in Mexico

A Gulf Cartel leader was killed during a shootout with the army and state police in Matamoros, Tamaulipas on Friday night, Mexico News Daily reported.

A bystander was also killed during the encounter, and two police officers were wounded. Tamaulipas authorities said the security forces detained four Gulf Cartel members and seized an armored vehicle and weapons.

On Saturday, Tamaulipas Governor Francisco Garcia Cabeza de Vaca announced the identity of one of the deceased persons, and he was confirmed as Ariel Trevino, known as "El Tigre," a leader of the Scorpions faction of the Gulf Cartel.

Authorities said El Tigre was a plaza boss in Nuevo Progreso town. He was said to be a priority target for law enforcement authorities in Tamaulipas and the U.S.

Authorities said the gun battle started after soldiers and state police came across several suspicious vehicles while patrolling the streets of Matamoros.

Security forces reportedly ordered the occupants of the vehicles to stop, but they ignored the instruction and fled while shooting at the police and soldiers.

Authorities noted that three vehicles were set on fire, while several suspected shooters had fled on foot and escaped into public areas in downtown Matamoros.

Sonia Grimaldo Velazco, an official with a trade union in the municipality of Victoria, was struck by a stray bullet and died from her injuries on her way to the hospital. Other citizens were also caught up in the confrontation, but there were no other reports of injuries or fatalities.

The Tamaulipas Attorney General's Office had a warrant out for El Tigre in 2018. He was one of the 10 most wanted in a list between the Tamaulipas law enforcement and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. El Tigre's reward was under $100,000 or 2 million Mexican pesos, according to KRGV.

Cabeza de Vaca has ordered more state police presence in Matamoros to control the violence and protect the public. The governor noted that they were committed to maintaining safety and peace in Tamaulipas and fighting organized criminal groups that put people in danger.

READ MORE: Clashing Mexican Drug Cartels Leave 2 Police and 7 Others Dead in Mexico

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Written by: Mary Webber

WATCH: Mexican Military in Combat With Cartel Members During Intense Chase Near US Border - From WarLeaks- Military Blog






Texas is preparing to face the approaching "Mother Caravan" of migrants, which Mexico's National Guards were unable to stop on Saturday as they head north after leaving Tapachula, Chiapas.

The Daily Mail reported that the Lone Star State stationed at least 1,000 police officers and Texas Rangers to monitor areas along the state's 1,241 miles of border with Mexico.

The said security officers were expected to guard the border against the new caravan of migrants looking to defy the administration of President Joe Biden.

On Monday, the group of migrants called "Madre Caravana" or "Mother Caravan" reportedly stopped along a highway in Huehuetan, a city in the southern state of Chiapas.

READ NEXT: Over 1.7 Million Migrants Arrested at U.S.-Mexico Border in Fiscal Year 2021 | Ex-DHS, CBP Officials Slam Pres. Joe Biden

Mexico's Security Forces Fail to Stop 'Mother Caravan' From Marching Towards U.S.-Mexico Border

The thousands of migrants nearing the U.S.-Mexico border came days after Mexico's National Guard failed to stop them despite a blockade across the highway in Tapachula on Saturday, Mexico News Daily reported.

More than 2,000 migrants, including hundreds of children, set off from Bicentenario Park in Tapachula marched north up the main highway on Saturday morning.

As Mexico's National Guard tried to block the migrant caravan near the town of Viva Mexico, the front of the caravan charged at the police line. But amid chaotic scenes, the crowds of migrants ran and managed to pass the law enforcement officers, who were not able to deter the surge.

The "Mother Caravan" was reported to arrive in Huehuetan by Sunday night. The caravan's first major milestone was when they arrived at Huixtla, which is located some 40 kilometers north of Tapachula, having met no serious attempt to stop it despite immigration officials, National Guard officers, the army, and the navy were seen traveling on the highway.

The majority of the migrants reportedly came from Central America and were poorly prepared. Many of them wore unsuitable shoes and slept in a warm area without tents or cover.

The caravan's leader, Mexican-U.S. activist Irineo Mujica of Peoples Without Borders, said the march's goal was to travel to Mexico City and demand the Institute of National Migration to quickly process issuing legal documents necessary for the migrants to move freely in the country. However, Mujica noted that many migrants were also committed to reaching the U.S.

A Mexican television network said the group was also composed of migrants from South America, Haiti, and Africa, who reportedly spent the last eight months stuck in Chiapas waiting for the Mexican government to approve their travel documents.

Pregnant women, seniors, and even individuals in wheelchairs were seen among the group of migrants. Many families pushing strollers with young children were also among the migrants.

The "Mother Caravan" is deemed to be the largest and most organized group of migrants this year as participants who wanted to join registered via a QR code, KUSI News reported.

CBP, Texas DPS on the Approaching Migrant Caravan

As the "Mother Caravan" continued to march, a spokesperson from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) told Daily Mail on Monday said they were committed to securing the southern border under the direction of Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

'While the department does not discuss operational specifics, we continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds to make real-time decisions and will adjust operations as necessary," the spokesperson noted.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said they plan for all possible scenarios based on information on the movements of migrants or operations of smugglers.

"Our posture and response are based on comprehensive analysis, and not on any single report," a CBP spokesperson told Daily Mail.

While managing a fair and orderly immigration system, the spokesperson noted that the CBP stands ready to address any potential rise in migrant encounters and work to ensure the safety and security of the borders.

Immigration Attorney Esther Valdes Clayton told KUSI that the "Mother Caravan" is expected to enter the U.S. territory in November. Clayton noted that Biden's lax border policies are inviting the migrants in.

READ MORE: DHS Chief Instructs to Halt Workplace Raids That Arrest Undocumented Immigrants

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Written by: Joshua Summers

WATCH: New Caravan of Undocumented Migrants Head Towards Mexico City - From WION
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Portland, TN (37148)

Today

Clouds and some sun this morning with more clouds for this afternoon. High 57F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Partly cloudy this evening, then becoming cloudy after midnight. Low 43F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.
Dublin man Cian McLaughlin has been missing from Wyoming state since June 8, 2021 after he left for a hike at Grand Teton National Park and never returned.

His mother has issued a fresh appeal to the public to help find her missing son.

The family of the missing hiker are continuing to search the mountain trails in Wyoming in a bid to find him.

Speaking with RTE News, his mother Grainne said people who may have been at the National Park might have seen him or might spot him in the background of pictures taken.

"Cian was an outgoing guy. If you met Cian, he would stop and have a chat." she added.

He lived in the US for two years, and worked as a snowboard instructor in the winter, and had vast knowledge of the area he was hiking.

Cian was last seen on the south side of the Taggert/Bradley Moraine and was heading south towards Taggart Lake.

He was wearing a white T-shirt, shorts, wire-rimmed sunglasses, a red apple watch, and carrying a bottle of water.

No new info has been reported about missing hiker Cian McLaughlin. The park continues to request any info the public may have that may aid in locating McLaughlin. An updated flyer is being posted with items he was last known to have. Latest info (6/23/21): https://t.co/0mf8Y8UQSO pic.twitter.com/Md0Qmtj856  Grand Teton National Park (@GrandTetonNPS) July 13, 2021

Grainne believes he was on a 'day hike'.

"He was well versed in the mountains, he grew up hiking with me, my Mom & Dad, and my brother. He was well versed with equipment and gear." she said.

The family has launched a hashtag on social media -#FindCian and #BringCianHome and are appealing for public assistance, particularly people who were hiking at the National Park on the day he went missing, or a few days later.

"It's not a rescue, it's a recovery, but I would like to bring him home.

"I know he's up there somewhere," she added.

A massive search operation began after Cian was reported missing, but it was scaled back a few weeks later. The search continued with a 'tactic shift over time'

It is understood that he spoke with another hiker on the day he went missing in the late afternoon and spoke about his life in Ireland and the US.

They continued hiking towards Bradley Lake and Cian was not seen since.

Chief Ranger at Grand National Teto Park, Erika Jostad said the search for Cian won't end until he is found and they are searching for items that Cian had with him.

"We continue to work with the public soliciting for information. We have missing person flyers throughout the park. The staff are patrolling the field in summer and winter." added Erika.

Grainne and her family will continue to search for Cian, and said she is thinking of Cian at every moment and trying to connect with him.

"My hope is to bring him home, to have some resolution and bring him home," she added.
Green Party leader and Climate Minister, Eamon Ryan, wants to see a system-wide change in Ireland's energy sector.

Minister Ryan discussed his views this morning on Today with Claire Byrne, where he said that although the introduction of the carbon tax had been "controversial", big changes are needed to develop renewable electricity.

Speaking on the issue, he said, "If we put this all on the consumer - 'What are you doing? What are your decisions?' - that focus on blaming the individual, the emphasis on the individual, doesn't work. It is system change [that's needed]."

Presenter Claire Byrne asked the minister who would pay for the changes, to which he said, "Who will pay if we destroy the whole planet? We need to go back to basics. Who is going to manage when there's wholesale migration? When there's drought and the endless costs in that? We have an opportunity here for system change we can make towards a better system."

He said, "Our job is to engage in conversation with the Irish people to say, 'Here are the sort of changes, we think it's for the better', and I think we're way up for making the leap."

When asked if nuclear power could play a part in Ireland's future, he said, "I've always said I wouldn't rule it out, [but] I don't see it as part of the energy system here. It's incredibly expensive. Why would we go to nuclear when we have this [wind] supply? It's not flexible, it's not as reliable, particularly a very big plant. And any risk whatsoever [they] have to shut them off straight away."

He continued: "I've never had a single person come to me [to say] they want to invest in nuclear."

Minister Ryan came under fire in recent weeks because of the possibility of energy blackouts over the winter months. This fear was due to the closure of gas plants over the past year as well as the temporary closure of other fossil fuel plants for maintenance and repair.

He called the situation "very precarious" but that it was "less [so] now".

He said, "I'm glad to say one of the main plants is back repaired, the second in the next week or two so it's not quite as tight. We still have a plan to deliver about two gigawatts of additional gas, and bring in something like five gigawatts of offshore wind in the same period. To use less gas but in a clever way."

He concluded: "This project of switching to renewables, that's the clever way to go."
A teenager from Kildare has won first prize in an art competition dedicated to frontline workers.

The young artist beat out over 1,600 other participants in the "Draw Our Heroes" art competition.

Speaking about her work, winner of the 13-15 years age category and Kildare resident, Della Cowper-Gray, explained that she choose a carer named Aideen as her hero because she worked hard as a career for the elderly.

"She came to our house to care for my Grand Uncle Amby (who is 91); she put herself at risk but always remained cheerful and greeted us all with her uplifting smile before putting on her mask," the young artist explained.

Competition originator Richard Mulcahy, also commented on the competition: "At the onset of the first lockdown, it was clear to me that while the pandemic brought great sadness and fear, it also brought us closer together as nation."

We could see how resilient and inventive we all can be during challenging times and the pandemic also brought into sharp relief the amazing work our ordinary healthcare and frontline workers do every day."

He continued: "I wanted to do something to help honour all these amazing people... I was so impressed by the creativity of our young entrants.

This past year and a half has been so challenging for young people and it was wonderful to see them really use their artistic flair to connect with the message and bring it to life."

"Congratulations to all our winners and thank you to everyone who participated," he concluded.

First announced in April of last year, during the onset of the first lockdown, the competition asked budding artists from all around Ireland to immortalise the everyday heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic by submitting their original portraits to a national competition.

Applicants also submitted a written piece outlining why the artwork highlights this hero and what makes them so special.

RTE broadcaster Joe Duffy and ceramic artist Olga Fitzpatrick sat on the panel of judges for this exciting competition and presented the awards to the winning entries, while celebrated artist Graham Knuttel also sat on the judging panel.

The competition also featured the Director General of The World Health Organisation, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who was painted by the 3rd prize winner in the 13-15 age category, Anna Louise Lumingkit.

Dr Adhanom Ghebreyesus also spoke with the young artist via Zoom.

First prize winners included:

Preksha Utekar from County Westmeath - Age category 8 years or under

Liadh Duane from County Galway - Age category 9-12 years

Della Cowper-Gray from County Kildare - Age category 13-15 years

Mary Bradfield from County Waterford Age category 16-18 years

The winning entries will first be placed online for viewing, with a public exhibition planned later as a tribute to the heroic efforts of thousands of our citizens throughout the pandemic.

A prize pool of 2,500 has been awarded to the top 3 entries across 4 age categories, while a further 2,500 will be paid to the heroes nominated by the winning artists.

The Draw Our Heroes art competition was sponsored by the Irish pharma and medtech company Uniphar Group plc, as well as Richard Mulcahy.
Gardai are investigating the murder of sixty three year old Michael McCoy who died as a result of an assault near his home in Tallaght five years ago.

His body was discovered at a forest track on Ballinascorney Road Upper, Brittas, Co. Dublin.

On Thursday 29 September 2016, Michael brought his two dogs for a walk in the nearby Ballinascorney forest.

His red Daihatsu Cuore was parked at the entrance to the forest by at least 8.30am that morning.

Michaels wife returned home that evening at around 5.30pm but Michael wasnt there. She became alarmed at around 7pm when he still had not returned home. Michaels wife and one of his daughters went looking for him and found his car parked at the forest. They searched for Michael and called out for the dogs.

They were worried as they thought he may have had a fall. They contacted the Gardai who utilised the services of the local Mountain Rescue Units, who searched the woods and found Michael lying on a footpath in the early hours of the 30th September. He had been assaulted and was pronounced dead a short time later.

Michaels family and local rector Rev. William Deverell have appealed for the publics assistance in solving this case.

Appeal:

If you were in the Ballinascorney area back in 29/30 September 2016 or feel that you may be able to assist with the investigation can you please come forward?

Gardai believe that there may be people with information in the community who have not yet come forward and would appeal to them to do so now.

This is a live investigation and while some progress has been made (including a number of arrests) more evidence is required to bring those responsible to justice.

We are making a direct appeal to the person(s) responsible or people who know who was involved in the killing of Michael.

It may be the case that with the passage of time or change in circumstances, people who felt they could not come forward previously may now feel more comfortable in doing so. People who do wish to come forward will be treated sensitively.

Tallaght Garda Station, Investigating, Tel: (01) - 666 6000.
The first annual World Amyloidosis Day has been publicly celebrated by a Senator from Kildare.

Fianna Fail Senator Fiona OLoughlin posted a message about the day, accompanied with a photograph of her holding a sign provided by the All-Ireland Amyloidosis Support Group.

Senator OLoughlin said: "I think we all have a heightened awareness of Amyloidosis in South Kildare, as a result of the advocacy of our local friend Pat Tinsley, who has suffered with the disease for some time and has bravely sought to raise awareness of the disease."

"The purpose of World Amyloidosis Day is to raise awareness of this rare disease. Unfortunately, according to the Amyloidosis Alliance, there are no unifying symptoms that are common to all forms of amyloidosis."

She continued: "It is a rare, complex and multifaceted disease; the different forms of amyloidosis are very different illnesses, they are caused by an abnormal build-up of proteins in the body, that meld into plates that clump together and affect some organs negatively  generally the heart, the kidneys and the peripheral nervous system.

"This means that a heightened awareness of the disease is crucial to ensure that sufferers are correctly diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible."

"On average, it is taking four years for a sufferer of amyloidosis to be diagnosed.

"Late diagnosis of the disease is a major risk as the progress of the disease may prove irreversible and in some cases it can be deadly."

Senator O' Loughlin added that heightened awareness of this disease is "vital" for early detection and treatment.

"I have long advocated for sufferers of this disease, including for our local friend Pat Tinsley- and I am pleased that as a result of our advocacy, Patisiran, a lifesaving drug which can help treat Amyloidosis is now available through the HSE... But we need to ensure that people are being correctly diagnosed as early as possible so that this drug can be accessed, and its impact on patients is maximised," she concluded.

Last month, Senator O' Loughlin said that Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly told her that the drug Patisiran, which is used to treat Amyloidosis, will now be available for use in Ireland.

According to hattrguide.com, Amyloidosis (also known as hATTR) is a systemic disorder characterized by the extracellular deposition of misfolded transthyretin (TTR) protein.

Normally, this protein is a tetramer made up of 4 single-chain monomers.

TTR gene mutations are thought to destabilize the protein and cause tetramer dissociation into monomers, which aggregate into amyloid fibrils.

These amyloid fibrils then accumulate in multiple organs throughout the body, and it is estimated that there are only 30-35 sufferers of this rare but deadly and debilitating disease in Ireland.

In related news, Senator O' Loughlin has welcomed the news that an Autism-friendly unit at Newbridge school will open for enrolments soon.
The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) has issued a response to recent news of overcrowding at Naas General Hospital.

Nurses working at the hospital claimed that it is seriously overcrowded today, with 25 patients being treated on trolleys.

It's the most overcrowded facility in the eastern region, followed by St James's Hospital where there are 15 people on trolleys.

Speaking on the announcement, an INMO spokesperson said: "There is a clear need to address overcrowding in Naas and across the country."

"We are all aware that services are preparing for flu season and on top of this, COVID is still circulating in the community and in our hospitals; this is a very unsafe situation for healthcare workers and for patients, and it puts immense pressure on an exhausted workforce to maintain infection control measures when they barely have space to work."

The spokesperson added that ensuring that appropriate resources are allocated to community healthcare over the coming winter will be key to reducing overcrowding in hospitals, and keeping patients and staff safe.

Naas Hospital has been monitored closely by the INMO over the course of the pandemic: last month, the group claimed that over 50 nursing positions were unavailable to cover frontline services in Naas General Hospital.

It also accused management at Naas Hospital of failing to "produce realistic proposals to address the staffing deficits on front line rosters."

Earlier today, it was revealed that the INMO wrote to the Chief Medical Officer and the Chair of the National Immunisation Advisory Committee (NIAC) calling for COVID-19 vaccine boosters to be provided to frontline healthcare workers.
A Kildare-based Senator has announced that a new Autism-friendly (ASD) unit in a school in Newbridge will soon be taking enrolments.

Fianna Fail Senator Fiona O' Loughlin has said that the new unit in St Conleths and Marys Primary School in Newbridge will be accepting enrolments in January 2022, with classes to begin in September 2022.

Senator OLoughlin said in a statement: "I have been liaising with Minister Norma Foley, the Principal Bryan Lynch, and the wider school leadership team and board of management on this project for some time now, and I am delighted to see works progressing so well at the school"

"I recently met with Bryan and Maria Sheridan Lambert at St Conleths and Marys school to discuss the progress of the project, and I am absolutely delighted to announce that the new ASD unit will be open for enrolment from January 2022, with the first class to be taken into the new facility in September 2022."

She continued: "The commitment and dedication of Bryan, his leadership team and the wider board of management is clear for all to see, and they are an absolute testament to the community they serve.

"The addition of six new ASD places at St Conleths and Marys will have a really positive impact on the families who children are lucky enough to enrol.

"There is no doubt that dedicated special education facilities are key to ensuring educational outcomes for many children with a special or additional educational need."

Senator OLoughlin concluded: "It is very important that children with special or additional needs are afforded the same opportunities as all other students- and being able to be educated along with their peers or siblings is a very important aspect of ensuring equality within our education system."

In related news, Senator O' Loughlin recently called for half price transport to be extended for 19-23 year old students.
Two humanities projects at Maynooth University (MU) have been awarded a combined grant of 403,000 as part of the Irish Research Council COALESCE research fund to confront societal challenges.

The funding has been awarded to Dr Richard Roche at MU's Department of Psychology, and to Dr David Doyle at the Dept of Law.

Their projects will explore the benefits of tailored interventions to cognition, memory and psychological health, and the ethics of patent law in the case of de-extinct animals respectively.

The two projects are as follows:

Dr Richard Roche - Tailored Reminiscence Interventions for Ageing and Dementias in Community Settings (TRIADICS). This project will assess the benefits memory to cognition and psychological health of tailored, co-created interventions which include exercise, meditation, breathwork and group reminiscence meetings for older adults and people living with dementias, including Alzheimers disease and Semantic Dementia. It will also involve exploring options for service delivery, so that the benefits of these interventions can be made available to larger numbers of people in Ireland.

Dr David Doyle - Jurassic Patents: Patent Law and the Value of Species in the Age of De-extinction. This project aims to investigate the legal, commercial, and ethical implications of patenting de-extinct animals. It will also explore the possible ramifications of doing so, as well as raising questions around the scope of patents, and need for urgent reconsideration of the role of ethical considerations within patent decision-making.

Announcing a total of 5.3 million in funding, which comes from the COALESCE fund, Director of the Irish Research Council, Peter Brown, said: "We are delighted to have partnered with so many Government departments and partners to deliver the COALESCE programme, particularly the Dept of Foreign Affairs who made a significant investment of 2.1 million towards the fund."

"The research carried out under the COALESCE fund has the potential to make a significant contribution to public policy in Ireland and further afield.

He continued: "Government departments are moving towards expert-led, evidence-based research in response to current priorities and policy needs.

"The call for 2021 will see even more government departments partnering with the fund, which will open up new areas for research.

"The projects announced today bring the Councils and our partners total investment in research focused on societal issues to 11.8 million, since the establishment of COALESCE."

The COALESCE fund is run by the Irish Research Council under the Collaborative Alliances for Societal Challenges (COALESCE) programme.

Last month, a venture between Maynooth University and Microsoft saw its team members receiving a grant worth nearly half a million euro to aid them in their research.
SHANNON Airport's post-pandemic revival is set to continue in the weeks ahead with budget carrier Ryanair launching three new routes.

The airport will be connected to the sunshine resort of Fuerteventura, the Hungarian capital of Budapest, and England's second city, Birmingham.

The chief executive of the Shannon group Mary Considine hailed the launch as "another milestone moment in our efforts to rebuild our air services."

"We are delighted to be able to offer our airport customers these three new diverse destinations from Shannon. Whether its a sun holiday to recharge, a cultural break or a shopping trip, the choice is there," she added.

"We know that restoring connectivity and rebuilding our air services is hugely important for our customers, and these three new popular destinations are welcome additions. We have a long way to go, but with 18 Ryanair services now available from Shannon, we are on the right path, she added.

The Fuerteventura service kicks off from this Sunday morning, at 6.20am Irish Standard Time - Keep an eye on that one, as the clocks go back in the early hours of the Sabbath day!

On Monday, the twice weekly Birmingham service begins, with the other departure on Friday morning, both leaving 7.40am.

And the new Budapest service operates twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays from the November 3, leaving Shannon at 5.25pm and 7.45pm respectively. A new Turin service will commence weekly from December.

These flights are part of a series of new services announced by Ryanair for its winter season which included services to Gran Canaria, London Luton and Edinburgh which are already operating.
A POPULAR hotel in the region is set to create more than 100 new jobs as part of a 3m investment.

The Armada Hotel at Spanish Point is seeking to attract staff from across Ireland to fill positions in a variety of roles including bar staff, restaurant supervisors, barista staff, sommelier, maintenance supervisors and reservations agents.

It comes as the resort reignites plans to build an extension.

Placed on hold last year due to the pandemic, the project will see the delivery of a large extension housing Aileens - a brand new 90 seater restaurant, new ocean bar with an interactive cocktail space and a private dining area for parties of up to 12 guests.

The renovation works will take place in January when the hotel is closed to guests.

The Armada Hotel has opened its own recruitment agency at a beach hut on the grounds of its hotel, in order to allow locals to directly apply.

Hotel owner and managing director, John Burke said: "Were building a world-class extension to give our guests the most authentic experience of life by the coast. Thats what we have to offer as a career too: the chance to work in one of Irelands most innovative hotels, offering something few other establishments are facilitating, a healthier approach to working hours, pay and conditions that means our team and their families get to truly enjoy life by the sea.

For more information, visit www.armada.ie/jobsbythesea
WORK to erect a new boundary wall at Mount St Oliver Cemetery in the city is set to start shortly after the project was formally approved by councillors.

The project, which will cost around 200,000 to complete, will see a new wall being built on the Kilmallock Road side of the cemetery.

The wall will be more than 3m tall and it will be almost 300m in length. The project will also include 'soft landscaping' and remedial works.

A public consultation took place earlier this year and a detailed report from the council chief executive, as required under the Planning and Development Act, was put before members of the Metropolitan District at their most-recent monthly meeting.

Seamus Hanrahan, senior project manager, told councillors the wall will be 'set back' from the existing footpath in order to 'future proof' what is likely to become an active travel corridor.

After formally proposing that the works proceed, Cllr Catherine Slattery, said she hopes the new wall, when complete, will curb antisocial behaviour in the area while Cllr Elena Secas sought an assurance that there will be no further delays.

She expressed frustration at the delay in progressing the project to date saying it had been "handled in a messy way" over a number of years.

Cllr Secas added that the cost of the works had also more than doubled since they were first mooted in 2015.

In response to further queries, Mr Hanrahan confirmed an additional bus stop has been earmarked for the area and that a cycle lane is likely to be installed at Kilmallock Road but that these are not within the scope of the wall project.

He indicated he was not in favour of a proposal to remove the current footpath during the works to build the wall.

However, this amendment was proposed by Cllr Slattery and seconded by Cllr Sarah Kiely.
A LIMERICK primary school has painted a message of positivity and inclusivity for students through murals made by local artists.

The learning environment at St John the Baptists Boys National School in the city has increased through specially commissioned artwork adorning the walls of the school grounds.

Principal David Nicholas wanted to ensure that students felt welcome and nurtured at the Garryowen school following the difficulties incurred by Covid.

The culture has really changed here, and the boys have really settled. We are focusing on relationships and thats really working.

Art Limerick, which consists of a community of local artists were approached by David. It resulted in the work of Garryowen native Tim O Connor and picture framer and artist Kathy Tiernan.

Philly O Driscoll (5th class) described the main mural as beautiful, adding that for some people it looks like just a painting, but really, its about a story.

As well as depictions of Irish Mythology, featuring Oisin in Tir na nOg and Cu Chulainn, are depictions of local sporting heroes.

These include All-Ireland winning Limerick hurler Gearoid Hegarty, who plays for local club St. Patricks and Munster rugby player Niamh Cronin, who formerly played for local club Richmond RFC.

St John the Baptist BNS sporting background is steeped in history and we look forward to engaging in sporting activities again as we are beginning to exit from COVID-19, David told the Limerick Leader.

The broader strokes of the message relate to the opening of a new Autism Spectrum Disorder Unit (ASD) within the school to cater for all childrens needs.

David also added that there are spaces left within the ASD unit and urges any parents who are looking for a space to support the additional needs of their child to get in contact.
A weather forecaster is warning that Orange Weather Warnings could be issued today by Met Eireann with a band of very heavy rain expected to Ireland.

In a post on Facebook this morning, Weather Alerts Ireland says that a band of rain associated with a low pressure system in the North Atlantic is expected to push over Ireland tonight bringing heavy rain to many parts of Ireland. This band is expected to persist over Ireland through tomorrow bringing very high rain totals.

According to the forecaster, on higher ground in the south west, 99mm of rain is forecast in a 24 hour period according to this morning's ECMWF model.

In south Kerry, Cork, Waterford, Wexford, Wicklow, south Kilkenny and Carlow totals of over 50mm are expected in a 24 hour period and over 70mm on higher ground which could lead to localised and river flooding.

For more from Weather Alerts Ireland CLICK HERE

According to the latest Met Eireann forecast, persistent rain will arrive along the west coast later in the evening and it will be wet and windy overnight as the persistent and locally heavy rain in the west extends to all areas overnight with a clearance to scattered showers developing in the north and west towards dawn. Temperatures not falling below 11 to 14 degrees as southwest winds moderate inland, remaining strong on exposed coasts of the south and southeast.

According to Met Eireann, rain will persist in the south and east through much of tomorrow, Wednesday, and there will be a risk of some localised flooding.
Amazon.com Inc. struck a deal to use Verizon Communications Inc.s network to link up its thousands-strong planned fleet of satellites, stepping up a rivalry with Elon Musks StarLink system.

Amazons billionaire founder Jeff Bezos has committed $10 billion to satellite subsidiary Kuiper Systems LLC, which plans to launch 3,236 satellites into low-earth orbit to provide broadband internet access.

Amazon will now explore ways this so-called constellation" of spacecraft could link up to Verizons terrestrial telecommunications network and connect remote areas and businesses, the companies said in a statement Tuesday.

The deal will escalate the new space race fueled by billionaire investment. Bezos, the worlds second-richest man, is clashing with the worlds richest, Elon Musk, whose Space Exploration Technologies Corp. has sent more than 1,500 low-earth orbit satellites into space, and also competes with Bezoss Blue Origin on launch technology.

Musk recently teased Bezos after his immense wealth surpassed that of the Amazon founder. Hes now worth more than a quarter of a trillion dollars, compared to Bezoss $193 billion.

Kuiper Systems in September filed a scathing comment with the Federal Communications Commission, accusing Musk and his companies of flouting regulations with a general attitude that rules are for other people."

The bid to provide low-earth orbit satellite broadband is also drawing in other investors, including more billionaires and governments. Ventures like OneWeb, backed by Indian telecommunications tycoon Sunil Mittal and the U.K. government, recently struck a deal with AT&T Inc. to hook up customers via existing land-based networks.

Amazon and Verizon will study technical and commercial models for new services, and will look at expanding Verizons network using Kuipers satellite broadband. Verizon and Amazon have already collaborated on other communications technology, such as edge computing.

A spokesman for Verizon said its a global partnership with Amazon and its open to exploring similar deals with other companies, but declined to comment on the finances of the deal.

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MUMBAI : ArcelorMittal and Nippon Steel Corp.s joint venture steel company in India plans to invest about 1 trillion over 10 years to expand its operations in the country, a senior executive said.

ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India Ltd (AMNS India) is owned 60% by the worlds biggest steelmaker and the rest by Japans Nippon Steel.

ArcelorMittal acquired Essar Steel India Ltd in December 2019 for 42,000 crore in one of the largest stressed-asset deals in the country. It then tied up with Nippon Steel, the worlds third-largest steel producer. An integrated flat steel producer, AMNS India is the top steel producer in western India, with its main facility at Hazira, Gujarat.

The expansion plans are progressing well. In Hazira, we plan to take the capacity to 18 million tonnes (mt). And in Odisha, we are looking at setting up an additional 12 mt between Paradeep and Kendrapara. Wherever we can get the clearances earlier, we will start the process of building an integrated steel plant," Dilip Oommen, chief executive of AMNS India, said in an interview.

The company has signed an initial pact with the Odisha government to build a 12 mt steel mill.

We are investing upwards of 50,000 crore in Hazira and a similar figure in Odisha. All these investments will indeed support Indias ambition of growing the national steelmaking capacity to 300 mt," Oommen said.

Indias current capacity is 143.91 mt, and ramping it up is seen as important to plans for self-sufficiency.

Steel demand in the country is set to increase amid a massive push by the government to build infrastructure, including new roads, airports and railway stations.

AMNS India is also diversifying into renewable energy, including solar and hybrid power, as part of its sustainability efforts. Our vision is very clear that we need to set up renewable energy business. We are in discussion with the government to procure land," Oommen said.

Renewable energy is a key component of the companys power portfolio in its bid to produce greener steel. This also involves raising energy efficiency, cutting energy consumption and reducing the energy intensity significantly through improved operational efficiency and reusing and recycling by-products of steel.

Oommen said AMNS India reduced its CO2 emissions per tonne by 35% since 2015.

We will continue to work hard and draw on the best of technologies that are available in the world to further improve in this."

The company is also keen on having its own logistics support by way of jetties.

The investment for steel expansion in Hazira will be dependent on the logistics. We have two jetties right now, which we aim to upgrade and modernize to support the port logistics. For Odisha, we are looking at building our own jetties. We are building one in Paradeep and one in Kendrapara," Oommen said.

The company already has a presence in the power sector through the acquisition of Bhander power plant at Hazira, Gujarat, which was acquired in March 2020 from Edelweiss Asset Reconstruction Co. Bhander is a natural gas-based thermal plant with an installed capacity of 500 megawatts and will be captive to AMNS Indias operations at Hazira. This January, it acquired Essar Power Odisha, another captive power plant of Essar Steel.

To secure its raw material needs, the company plans to participate in mine auctions. It already has two iron ore mines, Thakurani and Sagasahi in Odisha, to meet its immediate needs. But at the same time, we are participating in the auctions to ensure that we further securitize our raw material but obviously, taking the mines at the right price and not at a premium. We have seen that in the past, there are merchant miners and others who have taken mines and found it difficult to run operations because of the high premium," he said.

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Although the country is seeing a significant decline in terms of new Covid-19 cases being recorded, Kolkata is emerging as one of the primary districts of concern as infection rates rise, wrote Union health secretary Rajesh Bhushan in a letter to the West Bengal government .

West Bengal has reported 20,936 new cases and 343 new deaths in the last 30 days, accounting to 3.4% of India's new cases and 4.7% of new deaths. One of the primary districts of concern is Kolkata," Bhushan told state health secretary Narayan Swaroop Nigam.

The district has reported high quantum of average daily new cases in the week ending 21 October along with more than 25% increase over the past week (from 217 cases in the week ending 14 October to 272 cases in the week ending 21 October)," he added.

He also said that the rise in the positivity rate is concerning as Kolkata reported almost 27% increase in TPR in the past week (from 5.6% in the week ending 14 October to 7.1% in the week ending 21 October).

The weekly testing trends in this district are also showing a downward trend. This calls for more proactive action on the testing front," he stated.

Bhushan said that it has been observed that cases surge exponentially in instances where basic public health strategy (testing, tracking, treatment, Covid appropriate behaviour and vaccination) is not followed rigorously.

"The current trends increasing daily new cases and case positivity, if left unchecked may lead to a situation where there is a severe strain on the health infrastructure and health workforce," he said.

The health secretary also emphasised the need of celebrating festivals in a safe manner so as to ensure that the infections do not surge.

Regular review of Covid-19 cases and deaths must also be undertaken, and necessary corrective measures should be promptly communicated to the field teams. Lastly, it should also be ensured that the district maintains consistency in data up-dation in the Covid-19 portal," he said.

Covid situation in state

West Bengal on Monday reported 805 new cases of Covid-19, 184 less than the virus count registered on the previous day, according to a state health department bulletin.

The state has been witnessing a post-Durga puja coronavirus spike with 974, 846, 833, and 867 fresh infected cases registered on 23, 22, 21 and 20 October respectively.

The states caseload rose to 15,87,260 on Monday as against 15,79, 463 total Covid cases on Dashami, 15 October.

The coronavirus death toll too soared to 19,066 as 11 more patients succumbed to the infection during the day.

The state has 7,869 active cases, while 15,60,325 have been cured of the infection so far, including 807 in the last 24 hours, the bulletin said. The recovery rate among the coronavirus patients in the state stands at 98.30%.

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China pledged to help the Taliban rebuild the country" while reiterating calls for the U.S. to lift sanctions against the new leaders of Afghanistan as the economy worsens.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks to a Taliban delegation in Doha, Qatar on Monday, during the first high-level meeting between Beijing and the Taliban since it formed an interim government in September. Wang said the international community should work with the Taliban in a rational and pragmatic manner," the official Xinhua News Agency reported.

China supports the efforts to restore stability and rebuild the country," Xinhua reported, citing Wang.

The senior Chinese diplomat also stressed that the Taliban should demonstrate openness and tolerance," unite all ethnic groups and protect the rights of women and children, Xinhua said. Wang also said he believed the Taliban government would take effective measures to crack down on the East Turkestan Islamic Movement and other terrorist organizations that pose risks to Chinas national security.

China has largely welcomed the Talibans return to rule, and has repeatedly expressed willingness to work with the new regime. A stable Afghanistan could open up opportunities to develop the countrys substantial mineral resources and give a boost to Beijings Belt and Road infrastructure initiative. China is also counting on the Taliban to rein in radical Islamic terrorists that threaten Chinese interests both at home and abroad.

Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, acting deputy prime minister of the Taliban government, said the group aimed to strengthen cooperation with Beijing in various fields, and said that it would never allow anyone or any force to use the Afghan territory to harm China.

Chinas failure to offer specifics on humanitarian aide suggests that they are still not really committing," said Raffaello Pantucci, senior associate fellow at Britains Royal United Services Institute.

Beijing is mostly focused on ensuring that there is a functional government in Kabul," he said. They worry that the economic crisis, humanitarian crisis and potentially escalating security crisis could tip into a mess which they are going to be stuck with."

Wang is on a two-day visit to Qatar ahead of a trip to Europe, where hell visit Italy, Albania, Serbia and Greece.

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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Denham Springs, LA (70726)

Today

Abundant sunshine. High 74F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Mostly clear this evening, then becoming foggy and damp after midnight. Low 56F. Winds light and variable.
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Bleecker Street has landed North American rights to Sundown, a suspenseful drama about family and privilege.

Filmmaker Michel Franco ( After Lucia) wrote and directed the movie, which will be released in theaters sometime in 2022.

Sundown  starring Tim Roth, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Iazua Larios and Henry Goodman  follows a wealthy British family on a vacation abruptly cut short in Acapulco. When one relative disrupts the familys tight-knit order, simmering tensions threaten to expose long-gestating rifts.

It premiered at Venice Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival to solid reviews. Varietys chief film critic Peter Debruge praised Sundown, calling it the high-minded directors most successful film to date.

Sundown is an intricate, unconventional puzzle  a mystery, complete with murder, in which the solution isnt nearly so important as the process of putting it all together, Debruge wrote in his review.

Franco says he hopes the movie sparks a dialogue. Im excited to partner with such a thoughtful distributor as Bleecker Street to bring Sundown to North American audiences, Franco said in a statement. Sundown was born out of important questions I was considering personally and Im thrilled to see the conversations it will start.

The film was produced by Michel Franco, Cristina Velasco L. and Erendira Nunez Larios. Executive producers include Tim Roth and Lorenzo Vigas. It is a Teorema production in coproduction with Film I Vast, CommonGround Pictures and Luxbox.

Michel Francos film is an incisive look into the human psyche, said Andrew Karpen, CEO of Bleecker Street. Tim Roth and Charlotte Gainbourg give such powerful performances you cant take your eyes off the screen as their stories unfold.

Bleecker Street recently released Mass starring Reed Birney, Ann Dowd and Jason Isaacs; Im Your Man with Dan Stevens; and Together featuring James McAvoy and Sharon Horgan. The production companys upcoming slate includes Geeta Maliks family comedy India Sweets and Spices.

The deal was brokered between Kent Sanderson, Miranda King and Avy Eschenasy of Bleecker Street and ICM Partners.

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By Alan Cumming

Dey Street. 288 pp. $27.99

- - -

Dinner with Alan Cumming would be wonderful, wouldn't it? If only it were possible for the likes of you and me. Thankfully, the actor's diverting new memoir reads as if Cumming is across the table, reeling off piquant and revelatory personal anecdotes over a meal and a couple of bottles of prosecco. Told in an exuberant voice, with ample humor, delightful asides and exclamation points, "Baggage: Tales From a Fully Packed Life" serves up reminiscences that are both intimate and glittery. There's Faye Dunaway at the Grammy's weighing tuna salad on a portable scale, Gore Vidal downing a forkful of wasabi at a drunken dinner at his villa in Ravello and Cumming himself stealing a butter dish from a hotel while filming "Emma." Cumming has some wild tales -- and he's prepared to share.

That's not to say the book is superficial. For one thing, it touches on Cumming's memories of being abused by his father during a childhood in rural Scotland -- a subject he discussed at greater length in his previous, more focused memoir, "Not My Father's Son." For another, Cumming pauses occasionally to reflect on society and the human experience, whether it's musing about the meaning of personal authenticity, or speculating why his Tony Award-winning turn as a louche, hypersexual Emcee in the 1998 Broadway revival of "Cabaret" made such a splash. (His view: The performance gave America psychic release during the pressure-chamber prudery of the Bill Clinton impeachment scandal.)

Despite his candor about the challenges of his upbringing, Cumming doesn't want to be thought of as a brave survivor. "No one ever fully recovers from their past," he writes. "There is no cure for it. You just learn to manage and prioritize it." And manage he has. If the title of "Baggage" refers to the emotional burden Cumming carries with him from boyhood, it's also a witty acknowledgment of the globe-hopping lifestyle he has embraced as a stage and screen star, known for a shades-of-ebullient-satyr public persona, but probably most famous these days for channeling the political operative Eli Gold on CBS's "The Good Wife."

Cumming observes that his enthusiasm for variety in acting gigs -- "There are very few actors who can say they made back-to-back films with Stanley Kubrick and the Spice Girls" he crows -- mirrors a broader adventurousness, evident in his entrepreneurial gambles (e.g., his Cumming fragrance line), other sidelines (like hosting PBS's "Masterpiece Mystery!"), his humanitarian work (he won an Order of the British Empire award in part for his LGBT-rights activism) and his bisexuality.

"I am eclectic in all manner of ways," he writes. "Some might see it as flighty or ADD-ish. ... But truly I am excited by many things and I keep my mind and my heart open to everything. My lack of desire to be restrained in any form is central to my very being."

"Baggage" covers a good chunk of this unrestrained life, breezing back and forth in time but primarily focusing on a stretch between his nervous breakdown in the early 1990s, as childhood trauma resurfaced and his eight-year marriage to actress Hilary Lyon foundered, and 2007, when he wed illustrator Grant Shaffer.

Peppered with photos, the narrative takes in significant world and personal events, such as Cumming's experience in New York City on 9/11; intense affairs with lovers he keeps anonymous; and memorable acting jobs, including lesser-known credits like voicing "the White Rabbit in an 'Alice in Wonderland' -- themed musical episode of 'Dora the Explorer' opposite Jewel and Mel Brooks (together at last!) ... and a poodle in an episode of 'Arthur' (for which I was nominated for a Daytime Emmy. Robbed!)."

"Baggage" also brims with incidents that are objectively trivial, but so colorful and wryly recalled that they're entertaining. You might not want to hear about another celebrity's root canal, but when it's Alan Cumming undergoing dental surgery in his Nightcrawler makeup during the "X2: X-Men United" shoot, of course you do. All the chapter titles end in "y," adding to a general mood of effervescent archness. "Agony" evokes the stress and dazed euphoria of waiting for "Cabaret" to open on Broadway. "Debauchery" recounts indulgent down time as he waited to film "Eyes Wide Shut" with Kubrick, who at first glance, Cumming says, put him in mind of "a Hobbit version of Salman Rushdie."

Though packed with accounts of events both significant and trifling -- did I mention the time he complimented Tina Turner on her toenail polish at the royal premiere of "Goldeneye?" -- "Baggage" doesn't extend far enough chronologically to delve into many of the actor's more recent feats, such as his almost-one-man "Macbeth"; CBS's "Instinct," in which his character was a news-making instance of an openly gay lead figure on an American broadcast drama; or, a couple of mentions aside, "The Good Wife." Even a drawn-out dinner, it seems, can't do justice to such a venturesome life.

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Celia Wren writes regularly about theater for The Washington Post.
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Three crew members who had worked alongside Rust assistant director David Halls have given details about the A.D.s behavior on a previous project, where he is alleged to have created unsafe conditions on a set in 2019.

I can confirm that Dave Halls was fired from the set of Freedoms Path in 2019 after a crew member incurred a minor and temporary injury when a gun was unexpectedly discharged, a producer on the film confirmed to Variety. Halls was removed from set immediately after the prop gun discharged. Production did not resume filming until Dave was off-site. An incident report was taken and filed at that time.

The anonymous crew members gave their comments to CNN on Monday, detailing an incident where an 1800s-style muzzle-loading rifle unexpectedly discharged during production during the production of Freedoms Path. A boom operator incurred inner ear injuries requiring medical attention from the sound of the discharge.

The three crew members shared that an armorer was not present on set during the time of the incident. Instead, an inexperienced background actor was placed in charge of handling the firearm. However, Rocket Soul Studios, one of the production companies behind Freedoms Path, denied this to CNN, stating that a professional armorer was present at all times when the gun was on set.

One crew member said that others had asked multiple times if the rifle had been cleared for use in the scene without ever receiving a clear answer. A second said that the firearm was announced as a no fire or cold weapon before the accident. Two crew members shared that some rifles on set were packed with gunpowder, but did not contain projectiles  the rifle that misfired was not designated as one that should be loaded. All three stated that the production did not hold regular safety meetings, a break from industry protocol.

[Halls] was a person with enough red flags that his career should have been done with already, one crew member told CNN. Yet he was still out there, putting crew into outrageous situations. Its tough to think that Halyna [Hutchins] could have just as well been one of our crews. It was just too close for comfort.

On Thursday, cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was killed on the New Mexico set of Rust when lead actor and producer Alec Baldwin discharged a weapon that he was told by Halls did not contain live rounds while rehearsing a scene. The production has since shut down as authorities continue an ongoing investigation to determine details leading up to the incident. A Change.org petition calling for a ban against using real firearms on film sets has passed its goal of 25,000 signatures.

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BERLIN (AP)  Angela Merkel took a step closer to political retirement Tuesday after receiving her formal dismissal certificate from the post of chancellor after 16 years in office, though she will lead a caretaker government until her successor is sworn in.

Hours earlier, Merkel attended the opening session of Germanys new parliament in Berlin, taking a seat in the VIP gallery as the recently elected lawmakers met for the first time. Merkel, who first won a seat in the Bundestag 31 years ago, did not run again in the Sept. 26 election.

Lawmakers elected Baerbal Bas, a member of the center-left Social Democratic Party, as speaker of the 736-member lower house. She succeeds Wolfgang Schaeuble, a 79-year-old conservative and former finance and interior minister, who was also the longest-serving member of the last parliament, having first been elected in 1972.

Bas, whose party narrowly beat Merkel's center-right Union bloc, has been a member of the Bundestag since 2009. The 53-year-old was a deputy leader of her partys parliamentary group in the last parliament and its spokesperson on health, education and research.

Bas told fellow lawmakers that she would work for fairer representation of women in parliament. She is only the third woman to head the Bundestag since its creation in 1949.

The responsibility has by far not been spread fairly on all shoulders, she said.

While the Bundestag has more female members following last month's election, women are still a long way from reaching parity in the national legislature. More than a third, or 34.7%, of the new lawmakers are women compared to 31.4% in the previous parliament, according to the German news agency dpa.

Bas emphasized that even though parliament does not yet reflect the full diversity of German society, the new Bundestag has become more diverse, with more immigrant lawmakers and younger members.

She vowed to protect the lower house against hatred and promised, I will defend democracy against its enemies.

The three parties that hope to form Germanys new government said last week they aim to have the countrys next chancellor in place in early December, but acknowledged that they face a complex task.

The Social Democrats, environmentalist Greens and pro-business Free Democrats opened formal coalition talks following a preliminary deal earlier this month, which set out their priorities but left many open questions.

German coalition talks are an elaborate affair, producing an agreement that sets out details of the governments program for its four-year term. They have tended to get longer over the years as the countrys political landscape has fragmented, meaning that elections rarely produce parliamentary majorities for traditional allies.

If the negotiations succeed, the new government will send Merkels center-right Union bloc into opposition after 16 years at the helm. Her likely successor would be Olaf Scholz of the Social Democrats, her vice chancellor and finance minister since 2018.

Handing Merkel her dismissal certificate, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier thanked her for steering the country through difficult times, particularly during her final four-year term. He cited the coronavirus pandemic, Britain's departure from the European Union and a U.S. government under President Donald Trump that he said "had little to no interest in the international order and trans-Atlantic partnership.

Merkel last week received a warm farewell from fellow European Union leaders and former U.S. President Barack Obama. Her final weeks as caretaker include representing Germany as the G-20 meeting in Italy and next week's U.N. climate conference in Glasgow.

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Follow APs coverage of Germanys transition to a new government at https://apnews.com/hub/germany-election
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti (AP)  A religious organization whose 17 missionaries were kidnapped in Haiti almost a week ago defended its work in dangerous places on Tuesday.

The statement from Christian Aid Ministries comes as U.S. and Haitian authorities keep working to secure the release of the 12 adults and five children, including an 8-month-old, who were kidnapped Oct. 16 near the capital of Port-au-Prince.

Occasionally we are asked why our workers were in Haiti, the organization said, adding that they want to share the impact religion has had on their own lives. We want others to enjoy the joy, peace, and redemption we have experienced.

U.S. officials have reiterated that the government issued a warning in August about the risk of kidnapping for ransom in Haiti, where the leader of the 400 Mawozo gang that abducted the 16 Americans and one Canadian recently threatened to kill the group if his demands are not met.

Haitian officials have said the gang is demanding $1 million ransom per head, but that it wasnt clear if that included the children. A local human rights organization has said that the group's Haitian driver also was kidnapped.

On Tuesday, U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the situation will be a topic of conversation at the upcoming G20 meeting, adding that the U.S. and other countries need to step up and give Haiti the kind of investment and international aid it requires.

He said he personally gives U.S. President Joe Biden an update daily on the situation, noting that several law enforcement and hostage recovery specialists are working with the religious organization, the families of the victims and the Haitian government to try to coordinate and organize a recovery.

We are looking at every possible option for how to go about doing that, Sullivan said. But these things operate and have operated in Haiti historically on different timetables, under different circumstances. And so we need to manage this situation as carefully as possible so that at the end of the day, we achieve our objective, which is the safe return of every single one of those (abducted).

On Monday, the religious organization issued a statement pleading with people to not grow weary and to keep praying: We don't know how God will choose to bring resolution, but we desire that His will be done.

As recovery efforts continue, Haiti's capital on Tuesday was once again paralyzed by a two-day strike in which the streets were largely empty as severe fuel shortages blamed on gangs blocking gas distribution terminals continued. Jimmy Cherizier, leader of G9 Family and Allies, a federation of gangs considered Haiti's largest and most powerful, held a press conference on Tuesday and said that if Prime Minister Ariel Henry stepped down on Tuesday night, he would reopen blocked roads on Wednesday to allow the flow of goods.

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Benac reported from Washington, D.C. Associated Press writers Julie Carr Smyth in Columbus Ohio, and Danica Coto in San Juan, Puerto Rico, contributed to this report.
MONROE, La. (AP)  Growing up in the piney backwoods of northern Louisiana, where yards were dotted with crosses and the occasional Confederate flag, Jacob Brown was raised on hunting, fishing and dreams of becoming a state trooper.

But within weeks of arriving at the Louisiana State Police training academy in Baton Rouge, instructors pegged Brown as trouble. One wrote that he was an arrogant, chronic rule breaker with toxic character traits that should disqualify him from ever joining the states elite law enforcement agency.

Fortunately for Brown, the state police was known as a place where who you knew often trumped what you did, and where most introductory chats eventually got around to a simple question: Whos your daddy?

Jacob Brown is the son of Bob Brown, then part of the state polices top brass who would rise to second in command despite being reprimanded years earlier for calling Black colleagues the n-word and hanging a Confederate flag in his office. And the son would not only become a legacy hire but prove his instructors prophetic by becoming one of the most violent troopers in the state, reserving most of his punches, flashlight strikes and kicks for the Black drivers he pulled over along the soybean and cotton fields near where he grew up.

When friends and colleagues would ask Bob Brown how his first-born was getting along as a trooper, he'd respond with a seemingly innocuous boast:

Hes knocking heads.

The Browns story is woven throughout the recent history of the Louisiana State Police and represents what dozens of current and former troopers have described to The Associated Press as a culture of impunity, nepotism and in some cases outright racism.

It illustrates the dynamics that have made the agency the focus of a sprawling federal investigation that initially examined the deadly 2019 arrest of Black motorist Ronald Greene and has since expanded to include a string of other cases -- several involving Jacob Brown -- in which troopers are accused of beatings and cover-ups, even when they are caught on video.

If youre a part of the good ol boy system, theres no wrong you can do, said Carl Cavalier, a Black state trooper who was once decorated for valor but recently fired in part for criticizing the agencys handling of brutality cases.

Its an us-versus-them culture, they say, in which many troopers and higher-ups are more interested in covering for each other than living up to the agencys image of honor, duty, courage and doing the right thing.

Its a culture in which troopers who gather for backyard barbecues and church on Sundays feel so insulated from scrutiny that they can banter about their brutality on official channels, including texting each other photos of a battered and bloodied suspect with the quip he shouldnt have resisted.

Its a culture in which 67% of troopers uses of force in recent years targeted Black people  double the percentage of the states Black population  and in which troopers kept their badges after sending overtly racist emails with such headings as Proud to be White.

And its a culture in which state police academy instructors faced with a widespread cheating scandal sought to dismiss an entire recent class of cadets -- including the legacies of several high-ranking police officials -- yet nearly all were allowed to graduate to jobs on the force.

Theres a corruption that allows the reprobates in state police to just sort of do as they damn well please, said W. Lloyd Grafton, a use-of-force expert who is consulting on the Greene familys civil case and served on the Louisiana State Police Commission. Nobody holds them accountable.

WEVE GOT TO FACE THIS HEAD ON

A potential reckoning in the Louisiana State Police came in the wake of Greenes death on a rural roadside near Monroe on May 10, 2019 -- a fatality troopers initially blamed on a car crash at the end of a high-speed chase.

State police later acknowledged Greene was involved in a struggle with troopers but officials from Gov. John Bel Edwards on down refused for more than two years to publicly release the body camera video. When it was eventually published by the AP this spring, the footage showed white troopers swarming Greenes car, stunning, punching and dragging him by his ankle shackles, even as he appeared to surrender, wailing, Im your brother! Im scared, Im scared!

Fallout brought federal scrutiny not just to the troopers but to whether top brass obstructed justice to protect them, according to documents and people familiar with the case. Investigators have focused on a meeting that the elder Brown attended in which state police commanders pressured their own detectives to hold off on arresting a trooper seen on body-camera video striking Greene in the head and later boasting, I beat the ever-living f--- out of him.

Greenes death was among at least a dozen cases in the last decade identified by the AP in which state troopers or their bosses ignored or concealed evidence of beatings, deflected blame and impeded efforts to root out misconduct.

Many of those cases involve the state polices Monroe-based Troop F, which has become notorious for its treatment of Black motorists and counted Jacob Brown among its troopers. In one long-suppressed video, he can be seen pummeling a Black motorist with a flashlight, in another he slams a Black motorist into a police cruiser, and in yet another Brown and other troopers beat a Black man and hoist him to his feet by his dreadlocks. That was followed by troopers exchanging lol-peppered text messages bragging that the whoopin would give the man "nightmares for a long time.

Theyre not the people you think they are, said John Winzer, Greenes nephew, who shudders every time he sees a state trooper on the highway. Its no different than organized crime. They hang together. They eat together and ride at night together. And s--- like this happens.

Even the agencys superintendent acknowledged that the state police have lost the publics trust, due in part to an old-fashioned culture in Louisianas northern parishes in which some troopers are conditioned to punish anyone who runs from them or disrespects the badge.

Its uncomfortable to hear, You guys are bullies. Its uncomfortable to hear, We thought yall were better than this, Col. Lamar Davis, a veteran Black trooper brought in a year ago as a reformer, told AP in an interview.

Weve got to face this head on, he said. We have to change quite a few things in our agency.

Davis has reorganized his staff, overhauled use-of-force policies and mandated all troopers attend training on intrinsic bias. But he acknowledged it may not be enough to stave off growing calls for a U.S. Justice Department pattern and practice probe of potential racial profiling by a nearly 1,000-trooper force thats more than three-quarters white men.

One of Davis most uncomfortable reform duties came just weeks into his tenure when he called Bob Brown, a man he once worked for, to tell him out of respect that he had ordered the arrest of his son Jacob and three other troopers on state charges in the separate beatings of three Black men.

It wasnt pleasant, Davis said, declining to detail the conversation.

A SOUVENIR

Bob Brown grew up in Lake Providence, a farming town on the Louisiana side of the Mississippi River.

By the 1990s, he was raising his children in a farmhouse about 20 miles outside Monroe. He began working for the Monroe police before joining the state police as a trooper, investigating car crashes on the same rural roads his son would later patrol.

Former colleagues described him as a loyal friend and skilled investigator who brought country canny to his policing. When a young trooper got his cruiser stuck in the mud, Brown towed him out with his tractor. He was well connected and understood the politics of state police, serving as a sergeant over narcotics before being promoted to a major overseeing statewide criminal investigations.

The elder Browns file with the State Police Commission, which acts as a civil service board, makes no mention of any accusations of excessive force. State police so far have not released his full personnel file.

He was good at what he did but he wasnt a glory hound, said Lee Harrell, the former sheriff of Richland Parish who worked alongside the elder Brown at state police. He wouldnt talk to the media about his biggest drug bust.

But in 2000, just months before the state police would name their first Black superintendent, Browns choice of words drew a formal complaint from a coalition of Black troopers.

Brown was overheard in the office commiserating with colleagues over the results of a state police promotional exam. Some troopers were mad about how theyd scored and felt the test was flawed.

I dont understand how those n-----s could pass this test, Brown was quoted as saying, according to state police disciplinary records. Theyre not smarter than us.

When questioned by internal affairs investigators, Brown said that while he didnt recall making the remark, it was possible because the slur remained a part of his vocabulary.

The same complaint noted Brown hung a Confederate flag behind his office door, though it was not clear how long it had been there before it drew scrutiny. State police in northern Louisiana were sometimes called upon to remove Confederate flags that people would drape over highway overpasses, and Harrell said Brown held on to one of them as a souvenir.

The former sheriff, who is white, insisted that no one working in the state polices Monroe office, including himself, objected to the flags placement.

Its history, Harrell said, gesturing as he spoke to a Confederate battle flag flapping in his neighbors yard.

Brown escaped with a reprimand, and many of his white colleagues said they were unaware of the incident, even after then-Col. Kevin Reeves, a close family friend, promoted him to second in command of the state police in 2020, citing his phenomenal leadership at every level through the ranks.

But the story was well known among Black troopers, who passed it on to new Black recruits as part of state police lore.

Everyone was of the same accord that he was racist and open and out about it, Cavalier said.

Brown, who has since retired, refused repeated interview requests, telling an AP reporter on one occasion that a lot has been reported that is wrong.

I gave 30 years to this state, the now 60-year-old Brown said before hanging up.

TOXIC EMPLOYEE

A decade after the Confederate flag in Browns office came down, his son followed him into law enforcement.

Jacob Brown grew up with three siblings in Monroe, playing baseball and basketball at a Catholic school. He had perfect attendance for 12 years and volunteered at vacation Bible school. He showed an early interest in enforcing rules, working as an umpire, and loved hunting so much he got a tattoo of 10 flying ducks on his right shoulder.

My father taught me at a very young age how to be a successful hunter, he once wrote to a prospective employer. He has taught me lessons that I wish to pass on one day.

After high school, he spent two years at community colleges but didnt graduate and worked for a time as a roofer. In 2010, he was hired by the Ouachita Parish Sheriffs Office, where he spent two years in corrections before becoming a patrol deputy.

Brown applied to the state police in 2014, writing that he aspired to be a trooper because the agency was the most highly respected in the state and I like helping others and doing the right thing.

At the training academy in Baton Rouge, however, Brown quickly demonstrated the type of trooper he would become.

Sergeants scouring the military-style barracks for banned items, such as cellphones, asked Brown if he had any contraband and he said no, according to an instructor's memo recounting the incident. Then, after a sergeant pulled two bags of chewing tobacco from the ceiling tiles near his bunk, Brown lied again, claiming he had not shared any of it with his classmates.

Sgt. Len Marie, who oversaw the cadet class, said the issue wasnt about banned tobacco so much as it was about integrity. And Marie was certain Brown had none.

He is willing to cut corners and express himself in a disrespectful and deceptive manner, Marie wrote in seeking to have Brown kicked out. These are traits of a toxic employee that should not be allowed to continue with his training.

These character flaws are a strong indication of the type of trooper Cadet Brown will ultimately become, he added.

Marie, who declined to comment, was chastised by higher ups in state police for writing the memo, according to several people who worked with him. Nothing ever came of his request to kick Brown out.

No one from up above ever said, Were not terminating him because hes related to someone, but thats certainly what you were led to believe, said David Ryerson, a retired lieutenant who worked closely with Marie at the academy. Its all about who you know.

Other cadets caught breaking the rules were treated far more harshly, said Cavalier, who went through the same class with Brown and described him as untouchable.

A select few cadets in the academy carried themselves with a certain swagger, a vibe that said they were sure theyd make it through, Cavalier said. They didnt have any doubts.

Before resigning last year, Brown racked up 23 uses of force dating to 2015 -- 19 on Black people -- tying him for the most recorded by a state trooper in that period.

With a shaved head and often clad in a leather jacket, Brown cut an imposing figure for his 5-foot-10 stature, and his disciplinary file shows he was repeatedly counseled for unprofessional conduct and profanity as he enforced what he once described as the state polices code of righteousness.

Why the f--- are you going so god---- fast, he asked one motorist traveling 92 mph in a 55-mph zone.

In May 2019, Brown responded to a traffic stop in Monroe and struck Black motorist Aaron Larry Bowman 18 times with a flashlight, leaving him with a broken jaw, three broken ribs, a broken wrist and a gash to the head. Brown then mislabeled his body camera footage in what investigators concluded was an intentional attempt to hide the video.

When that video eventually was obtained and published by AP earlier this year, it showed Bowman on the ground pleading for mercy and repeatedly shouting between blows, Im not resisting!

Brown, 31, pleaded not guilty this month to a federal civil rights charge in Bowman's beating and has not responded to repeated requests for comment. Said his attorney Scott Wolleson, We will reserve our comments for the courtroom.

THEYRE OUT THERE WORKING

Favoritism toward the family members of top brass is so entrenched in the Louisiana State Police ethos that it is a part of state law. In 2017, the Legislature carved out an exception to Louisianas nepotism ban to allow a trooper to remain on the force after his father becomes superintendent.

It was passed specifically for then-Superintendent Kevin Reeves and his son, Kaleb, who would go on to be suspended for 4  months without pay this year for causing a rear-end crash that killed two sisters, ages 18 and 11. Investigators determined Reeves had been driving recklessly, including going 22 mph over the speed limit, yet he was not prosecuted.

Some at the state police training academy say another glaring example came with the class of 2019, when instructors sought to dismiss more than 50 cadets -- including at least five with high-ranking relatives in the agency -- after a search of laptops turned up signs of possible cheating that included widely shared answer keys and copies of exams on law, use of force and ethics.

Documents obtained by AP and interviews with officials showed some of the material dated to 2014, suggesting to instructors that cadets may have been cheating for years.

But in a meeting with the instructors, Kevin Reeves refused to kick out the whole class.

Thats not going to happen, he told them, according to several people who were there. Id rather take a sniper rifle approach than use the shotgun method.

State police internal affairs issued a report three months later, just before graduation, that rejected the idea that the cheating was widespread.

Even though records show two cadets were fired for cheating and another who was under scrutiny quit, investigators concluded that the tests and answers cadets obtained from classmates, troopers and even a state judge were merely study materials.

Mark Richards, a retired captain who oversaw the training academy in 2019, said the cheating was covered up and the agency never adequately examined whether years of troopers skated through the academy with pilfered test questions.

Theres a laundry list probably of cadets in the last six classes that got by, got through by cheating, Richards said. And theyre out there working.

State police spokesman Capt. Nick Manale disputed that characterization, saying there was no indication the cheating was widespread and that the investigations were conducted in accordance with policy and procedures.

FAIL POINTS

Davis, the current head of the state police, says the actions of a few bad troopers shouldnt overshadow the good work done by the majority of his agency every day. But he acknowledged to the AP that he still doesnt have a full grasp of how pervasive excessive force may be among his officers.

Thats in part because supervisors have for years failed to review thousands of hours of body camera footage, including that of Brown and other troopers with troubling records. Its one of the fail points Davis listed among the overwhelming array of problems he confronted when he took over last year.

Asked whether he is confident there isnt another Ronald Greene case out there that state police brass -- and the public -- dont yet know about, Davis didnt hesitate.

No, Im not, he said. Weve not looked at every video.

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Video Journalist Allen G. Breed contributed to this report.
WARSAW, Poland (AP)  Poland's ruling party leader presented plans Tuesday for a homeland defense bill which he said is aimed at radically strengthening the military as the country faces migration pressure from its eastern neighbor Belarus.

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the deputy prime minister who is undisputedly the most powerful politician in Poland, said the bill is needed due to a deteriorating international situation and also to Poland's geopolitical location. Examples he gave included neighboring Russia's imperial ambitions and the hybrid warfare being waged by Belarus against Poland and other European Union nations using migrants.

"If we want to avoid the worst, that is war, we have to act according to the old rule: If you want peace, prepare for war, Kaczynski said at a news conference in Warsaw.

He argued that, as a country which lies on the eastern flank of the European Union and NATO, Poland must have a serious deterrent force and the ability to effectively defend itself for a long time on its own.

He noted NATO decisions take time to implement.

The bill, which still needs approval from parliament and the president, is aimed at replacing an existing one from 1967. At that time Poland was a member of Warsaw Pact eastern military alliance, under Moscow's control. Since 1999 it has been a member of NATO, and is regularly cited as one of the few alliance members that invest at least 2% of its GDP in defense.

Kaczynski said, speaking alongside Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak, that he believed the changes would also benefit NATO.

Kaczynski and Blaszczak presented a plan to increase the defense budget and to more than double the size of the military to at least 250,000 soldiers and 50,000 reserves. The changes do not involve a reinstatement of compulsory military service.

Kaczynski also said Poland hopes to strengthen its forces by buying U.S.-produced military equipment but would also look at European-made weapons.

Some opposition lawmakers criticized the plans, noting that they come from the ruling Law and Justice party, which they said repeatedly has weakened the military.

It doesnt look good, said Cezary Tomczyk, a lawmaker with the centrist Civic Platform party. Who purged the army of generals, colonels and majors? Who stopped the modernization of the Polish army?

The plan to strengthen the army comes as Poland faces heavy migration pressure from Belarus. Warsaw accuses the Belarusian regime of President Alexander Lukashenko of encouraging migrants from the Mideast, Africa and elsewhere to seek entry to the EU through Poland.

It also comes as Poland finds itself increasingly at odds with its EU partners, with a conflict over changes to Polish courts  which the EU sees as an attack on judicial independence  escalating this month. Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki told the Financial Times in comments published Monday that if the EU withholds funds to Poland over rule of law issues, it would be like starting World War III.

In a separate political development, Morawiecki announced changes to his Cabinet on Tuesday, among them new appointees to head the climate ministry, the agriculture ministry and the ministry of technology and development. Some observers said the changes involve the departures of some Morawiecki allies.

Poland has reacted to the migrant crisis by declaring a state of emergency along the border with Belarus. It has also been fortifying the border with razor wire and has deployed soldiers to help border guards. The government also plans to construct a high permanent barrier with motion sensors.

Polish border guards have also been pushing migrants back across the border, including some families with children. A new Polish law took effect Tuesday that legalizes the pushbacks.

Human rights officials have criticized Poland's state of emergency while the UN refugee agency has said that the new legislation undermines the fundamental right to seek asylum."

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Follow all AP stories about global migration at https://apnews.com/hub/migration.
3 1 of 3 Courtesy photo /Texas DPS Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Courtesy photo /Texas DPS Show More Show Less 3 of 3





A woman was arrested for attempting to smuggle a migrant in Zapata County, according to state police.

On Oct. 21, a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper pulled over a black Ford sport utility vehicle for a traffic violation.
As questions about Delta 8 THC's legality wade their way through Texas courts, all eyes are on massive stockpiles of the now-illicit products that could spell legal trouble for retailers and manufacturers after a ruling by an Austin judge Friday.

That issue is at the center of a new legal argument pushing back against the Delta 8 ban brought by Houston-based smoke shop Vape City. Michelle Donovan, an attorney representing the Texas chain of more than 75 retail stores  which sells smoke and vape items including Delta 8 THC products  filed a request for a temporary restraining order this week asking a Travis County judge to remove Delta 8 THC from the Texas Department of State Health Services' list of schedule I controlled substances.

The substance's moniker is derived from its chemical makeup, Delta 8 tetrahydrocannabinols (or Delta 8 THC). It's considered an isomer of Delta 9 THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Manufacturers, retailers and consumers all believed that Delta 8 was made legal under the 2018 federal Farm Bill and subsequent state legislation that effectively legalized all hemp products containing less than 0.3 percent Delta 9 THC. Texas state attorneys, however, argue that Delta 8 THC is and always has been illegal.

The new filing is similar to a request filed last week from Austin-based hemp retailer Hometown Hero, which claimed State Health Services failed to give proper notice to an October 2020 public hearing regarding the fate of Delta 8 THC as a controlled substance. Not one person filed a comment or showed up to the hearing, which attorneys argue is indicative that no one was given proper notice. Then, when the State Health Services department published its ruling determining that Delta 8 THC was to remain on the controlled substances list, it was published in an image format rather than text format  making it difficult for industry leaders to find.

JustCBD

State district judge Gary Harger on Friday ruled against the request for a restraining order, meaning products containing Delta 8 THC will continue to be considered an illegal controlled substance. Vape City CEO Ali Sheikhani said Friday's ruling meant he's now sitting on millions of dollars worth of products he can't sell, despite having no trouble doing so as recently as two weeks ago.

"Right now, Vape City is all panic," Sheikhani said. "People don't know if we sell it. We took all the Delta 8 products out. They're confused. What are we going to tell customers?"

Sheikhani said he's having to cut hours for his more than 500 employees across the state to prepare for the loss of revenue he planned to make off of Delta 8 THC products. Outside the economic ramifications, he and his attorneys are worried about any crackdowns from law enforcement now that the substance is understood to be illegal.

"Businesses and consumers are going to be arrested onsite because they have these products on hand," Sheikhani's lawyer Donovan said of a worst-case scenario. "There's an immediate and abrupt harm. Basically, they're criminals overnight for having these products."

Donovan is still awaiting a hearing date for her request. She hopes her arguments detailing the potential harm to otherwise well-to-do business owners capitalizing on Delta 8's popularity will make the difference needed to nail a key, early victory in the drawn out legal fight ahead.

The earlier case filed by Hometown Hero has a full hearing Nov. 5 to determine if the Department of State Health Services violated Texas law regarding public notices. Friday's ruling was only a rejection of the immediate request for a restraining order and not a ruling on the full breadth of the case. During the upcoming hearing, advocates with the Texas Hemp Federation will provide testing experts who will testify to the rigorous examination that Delta 8 products undergo.

Andrea Steel, an attorney specializing in compliance issues with Hometown Hero, said manufacturers and retailers are now "in a very precarious situation" after Friday's ruling.

"Law enforcement in some areas may feel emboldened to take action where they previously did not, especially in smaller localities," Steel said. "Hopefully the Temporary Injunction hearing next week will provide additional clarity. There could likely be ramping up of regulatory or enforcement action in the interim."

For now, Sheikhani of Vape City is in a holding pattern regarding his stockpile of Delta 8 products. His stores continue to sell CBD and other products and accessories, but the Delta 8 ban struck a major blow to his expected revenue. "We took everything out," Sheikhani said. "I don't know what we're going to do with this millions and millions worth of inventory. I have no idea."
James Neiss/staff photographerLockport, NY - Marguerite Marks celebrated her 104th birthday at Mount View Assisted Living Facility, Monday. She received a proclamation from the county for this feat. She was born in Canada, but moved to North Tonawanda in 1948. Marks is known at Mount View for her love of the Bills. Helping her celebrate are her daughters (left) Debbie Koch and (right) Donna Freiert, along with son-in-law Wally Freiert.
The beginning of the school year when you got to show off your new duds, new cars, new looks!

Sports! Playing, cheering, watching high school athletics.

The arts: Dramatic arts, musical groups and shows, graphic arts groups, debate, etc.

The prom! No dancing the night away or punch bowl antics.

The daily interactions. Just being with the group, hanging with friends and classmates.

Access to college recruiters and advisors  its harder to line up higher education.

Walking onstage to get a diploma while all the family is watching with everyone elses family.

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Creating Our Future is a government-led national brainstorm that will involve the people of Ireland in a conversation on the role research can and should play in addressing opportunities, challenges and hopes for the future.

Creating Our Future will ensure that the direction of research in Ireland is informed by the people it serves.

Creating Our Future is asking people to submit their ideas about what researchers in Ireland should explore to create a better future through the dedicated online portal www.creatingourfuture.ie, which is open until November 30, 2021.

The Roadshow will be pulling up in towns across the country and will encourage members of the public to engage in a conversation with researchers over a cup of coffee, and to submit an idea about an opportunity or challenge in their lives, community, Ireland or the world; or something they are curious or passionate about and would like researchers to explore.

Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris said: Over the course of the pandemic, we were reminded starkly of how much of our daily lives depend on the efforts of researchers to secure our economy, wellbeing, and health. As a forward-thinking country, we must ask how research can help meet the opportunities and challenges facing our society over the coming years. Creating our Future opens up this question to all.

This roadshow will engage people right across our country in this vital campaign. Everyone, everywhere, can have an idea for a better future. I look forward to hearing them.

For more information on how to get involved or to submit an idea, go to: www.creatingourfuture.ie.
Growing Media Ireland (GMI), the representative group for the majority of horticultural peat and growing media producers in Ireland, has welcomed Minister Peter Burkes commitment to exempting peat harvesting from the planning process.

Speaking on behalf of the Government at the Seanad debate on peat harvesting Minister Burke said: I have no issue with supporting the exemption of peat extraction from the planning process. However, clear policy is needed to provide an alternative regime to be put forward to ensure that EU environmental standards are met.

This follows the huge shipment of almost 4,000 tonnes of horticultural peat into Drogheda Port last month. A convoy of over 200 trucks collected the freight of horticultural peat which travelled over 3,000KMs to Ireland from Latvia. GMI welcomed the IFA horticultural growers protest outside Leinster House and the cross-party support in the Seanad for a fair and workable system to allow for the resumption of peat harvesting to alleviate the adverse impact on the sector.

All sectors of Irish horticulture including mushroom and small fruit and vegetable growers in North Dublin and throughout rural Ireland are severely affected. The increased cost of importing peat will inevitably be passed on to consumers and result in a rise in food prices and loss of competitiveness. With peat available to be harvested within close proximity of the processing facilities in Ireland it makes no sense to continue importing peat at a heavy cost not only to producers and growers but environmentally.

Commenting, John Neenan, Chairman of GMI, said: We welcome Minister Burkes support on behalf of the Government for exempting peat harvesting from the planning process. However, the Government will need to act swiftly to support the 17,000 jobs across Irelands horticultural sector which are at risk due to the existing process.

We need a fair and workable licensing system introduced immediately that will provide for the phasing out of horticultural peat harvesting over a transition period to 2030, allowing alternatives to be developed within our industry. Peat is essential for our growers and the security of the food they produce. If we dont have a fair system in place before the end of the year Irelands horticulture sector will inevitably lose out as our competition in the UK and the Netherlands will race ahead.
Food, Wine, & Dining

By Ls Cohen Published: October 26 2021

Long Island is home to some of the greatest Irish pubs.

As the Irish say, Slainte - which is a cheer to good health. If you are looking for a good Irish pub, Long Island has plenty. Here are just five we picked for you to try.

The Rabbit's Foot Bar and Grill, Hicksville

A new pub opened by a Manhattan lawyer who wanted to open a pub just like the ones he would frequent in New York City to work and meet clients in a casual locale. The name was inspired by a friend and partner of the founder who said of the venture that they needed good food, a good location and a little bit of luck.

Location: 645 South Broadway Hicksville, (516) 605-0015.

The Irish Poet, Wantagh

With a tagline, come as a stranger, leave as a friend, The Irish Poet seems to encapsulate everything you look for in a cozy, friendly pub.

Location: 1891 Wantagh Avenue, Wantagh, (516) 588-1891.

Carneys Irish Pub & Restaurant

Irish pub in the heart of Amityville village. They say that Carneys is a place where you're a guest on your first night; after that you're a regular.

Location: 136 Broadway Avenue, Amityville, (631) 464-4445.

Kitty Mulligans Irish Pub

Named after the owners grandmother, Kitty Mulligans is a place where they celebrate Kittys cheerful spirit every day.

Location: 615 East Main Street, Bay Shore, (631) 315-3571.

Jackie Reillys

Traditional and relaxed Irish pub. The name says it all.

Location: 3964 Hempstead Turnpike, Bethpage, (516) 731-7544.
Crime

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2021

DA Sini calls ruling a win for public safety.

Suffolk County District Attorney and District Attorneys Association of the State of New York (DAASNY) President-Elect Timothy D. Sini have announced that a New York State law that allows criminal defendants to move for a court order granting them access to crime scenes, including an individuals home, has been deemed unconstitutional in a Suffolk County Court ruling. The law was passed by State lawmakers as part of the sweeping criminal justice reforms, including amendments to bail and discovery laws, that were enacted in 2020.

This is one of the many statutes included in the 2020 bail and discovery reforms that I opposed from the very beginning, District Attorney Sini said. It has the potential to re-traumatize crime victims, is invasive of victims privacy, and  as we successfully argued in this case  is blatantly unconstitutional. This decision is a win for victims rights and a win for public safety. We will continue to oppose this law should the decision be challenged, and will fight to protect residents safety.

In People v. Jose Torres, the Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County, which is representing the defendant, filed a motion to grant a defense attorney and investigator access to a home at which Torres is alleged to have committed a burglary. The Suffolk County District Attorneys Office opposed the motion and argued that the statute is unconstitutional in that it violates the victims Fourth Amendment rights and expectation of privacy under the U.S. constitution as well as the victims rights under Article I  12 of the New York State constitution. In a decision issued on Sept. 17, Acting Suffolk County Supreme Court Justice Anthony S. Senft, Jr. ruled in favor of the Suffolk County District Attorneys Office, finding that Criminal Procedure Law (CPL)  245.30 (2) is unconstitutional.

The Legal Aid Society has filed a petition to have the decision vacated and to have the crime scene preserved for their inspection. The New York State Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Second Department, today denied the application to preserve the crime scene and ordered the respondents  the District Attorneys Office and Justice Senft  to submit arguments by Nov. 15 opposing the defendants attempted challenge to the trial courts ruling.

The statute in question, CPL  245.30 (2), states that the defendant may move, upon notice to the prosecution and any impacted individual, agency, or entity, for a court order to access a crime scene or other premises relevant to the subject matter of the case, requiring that counsel for the defendant be granted reasonable access to inspect, photograph, or measure such crime scene or premises, and that the condition of the crime scene or premises remain unchanged in the interim.

The underlying case involved in this litigation concerns an alleged burglary on Aug. 2, 2020, wherein Torres is accused of stealing a safe containing approximately $60,000 cash from the lower level apartment of his residence in Wyandanch. He was arrested on Aug. 10, 2020, and charged with Burglary in the Second Degree, a class C felony; Burglary in the Third Degree, a class D felony; and Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the Seventh Degree, a class A misdemeanor, for his alleged possession of a quantity of crack cocaine.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney James Scahill, formerly of the Felony Offense Bureaus Major Crime Unit and currently assigned to the Vehicular Crime Bureau.
Community, Charity & Cause, Arts & Culture

By Chris Boyle Published: October 26 2021

First project depicts the Kings Park Bluff.

Legislator Trotta paints the top of a boat while children and adults work on the dock and other aspects of the mural.

Through an omnibus grant administered by the Suffolk County Office of Economic Development, Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta secured funding for the Kings Park Chamber to commission three murals to beautify the downtown business district in Kings Park.

In partnership with Splashes of Hope, a non- profit art organization that creates murals throughout Long Island, the first mural was recently completed.

With the help of local residents and Legislator Trotta,they painted a picture of the Kings Park Bluff. The bluff is a favorite site for local residents, anglers, boaters and students at Kings Park High School.

The painting is on the side of the Kings Park Shipping and Business Center building at 21 Pulaski Road, and it welcomes visitors and residents to the area.

I think this is a terrific use of the grant money and a great way to revitalize our downtown business district, said Suffolk County Legislator Rob Trotta.
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(Alliance News) - Ireland's Climate Change Advisory Council has outlined proposals to cut emissions by more than 50% by the end of the decade.

The independent group that advises the Dublin government on its climate policy has signed off on two five-year carbon budget plans to achieve a 51% reduction by 2030.

The budgets are part of the long-term strategy to make Ireland carbon neutral by 2050.

The plans are now set to be brought to cabinet by Minister for the Environment, Climate & Communications Eamon Ryan.

If cabinet and Oireachtas approval is secured, Ryan will then work with other ministers to decide how each sector of the economy, such as agriculture and energy, will collectively contribute to the overall reduction goals, setting emission ceilings for each one.

The blueprints cover the periods 2021 to 25 and 2026 to 2030.

The target for reducing greenhouse gas emissions is lower in the first period a 4.8% per year a than in the second period a 8.3% per year.

The council explained that the first budget target reflected that time was needed to make decisions and roll out policies that cut emissions.

It also noted that the first full year of the period was almost over.

Marie Donnelly, chair of the council, said urgent and transformative change was required if Ireland was to meet its targets.

"The proposed carbon budgets will have an impact on society and the economy but allow us to act on climate change in a planned and organised way," she said.

"The budget is based on the best available science and defines an appropriate and necessary path to addressing the climate challenge. Many of the changes required now will only have a real impact on emissions in the second period.

"Now is the time to put policies and supports in place that will help those people, communities and businesses that will be impacted by the significant changes we need to make to how we live, work and travel.

"The carbon budgets provide a framework, but what is urgently required is transformative change which is led by all of government on a sustained basis, supported by all sectors of the economy, and all members of society. This will require significant investment across the economy."

Minister Ryan said the carbon budgets were a "significant milestone" in Ireland's efforts to tackle climate change.

"The government will shortly publish Climate Action Plan 2021," he said.

"Every sector of the economy will need to play its part.

"There will be different targets for each sector, based on their respective starting points and the relative difficulty, cost, speed and benefits of reducing emissions.

"This will be challenging and will require fundamental changes in many parts of Irish life, but it is also an opportunity to create a cleaner, greener economy and society that cuts emissions, creates jobs and protects our people and the planet."

However, Irish Farmers' Association President Tim Cullinan said the reductions would have "serious repercussions" for farming.

"For most people, climate action will impact on their lifestyle," he said.

"For farmers, it will impact on our livelihoods," he said.

"It's also important to realise that increases in the cost of energy and transport fuel are already impacting on the viability of farms and rural businesses.

"The government must now engage in meaningful negotiation with farmers to make a plan for the sector that can contribute to emissions reduction, but which does not impact on farmer's livelihoods.

"In addition, proper funding must be in place to help farmers implement climate action measures.

"The frustration for farmers is that they know that if less food is produced in Ireland, it will be produced elsewhere, with a higher carbon footprint."

By David Young, PA

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 Tuesday and not separately reported by Alliance News:







Strix Group PLC - Isle of Man-based kettle safety controls provider - Launches Aurora and Dual Flo as key extensions of Strix small domestic appliances category. Aurora is currently being launched under Strix own brands as well as global and local brand partners. Dual Flo will be launched internationally from late October through global and local brand partners.







Maestrano Group PLC - London-based enterprise software company - Launches the next-generation Lumos series LiDAR sensor, designed and manufactured by its wholly owned subsidiary, Nextcore. The Lumos is a new generation of sensor that is lighter, more accurate and faster, the company says. The improvements increase the addressable market size for Lumos.







Sylvania Platinum Ltd - Bermuda-based platinum group metals producer - Reports net profit for the three moths to September 30 of USD8.6 million, lower than USD14.7 million posted to the quarter to June 30. Production declines to 15,771 4E platinum group metals ounces from 16,289 ounces quarter-on-quarter amid the temporary production suspension at Lesedi, South Africa. Sylvania explains that the temporary suspension of operations at Lesedi extended through the quarter and will be ramped up to normal capacity towards the end of 2021, as hydro-mining of the affected tailings dam facility commenced at the end of September.







Lansdowne Oil & Gas PLC - Dublin-based exploration company - Welcomes the announcement by Providence Resources PLC - developer of hydrocarbons offshore Ireland and UK - that the Celtic Voyager has been mobilised to the Barryroe field in the North Celtic Sea Basin to carry out a site survey over the K drilling location. Lansdowne holds a 20% interest through its subsidiary, Lansdowne Celtic Sea Ltd, with the remaining interest held by Exola DAC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Providence.







Prospex Energy PLC - Hatfield, England-based company which invests in gas production and electricity generation projects - Says the Selva field development project in Italy, in which the company holds a current 17% interest, delayed to tie-in to the national gas grid. Snam SpA, the national pipeline operator, is responsible for the both the costs to construct the grid connection point for new gas developments, as well as the construction itself. The tie-in to the gas grid can only be done by Snam in accordance with the Italian gas network code and the delay is, in part, as a result of supply chain disruption due to Covid-19 impacts.







Mosman Oil & Gas Ltd - New South Wales, Australia-based exploration, development and production company - Says the Stanley-5 well in Polk County, east Texas, has now been spudded. Mosman's interest in this well is 37% and will fund its share of the USD350,000 drilling costs from existing cash resources.







88 Energy Ltd - Alaska-focused oil exploration and appraisal company - Executes the Arctic Fox rig contract with Doyon Drilling Inc for drilling of the Merlin-2 appraisal well at project Peregrine on the North Slope of Alaska. The Merlin-2 appraisal well is planned for drilling in February 2022 to a permitted total depth of 8,000 feet. 88 Energy says it has identified several appraisal drilling locations to the east of the Merlin-1 well, closer to the shelf break, where enhanced reservoir thickness and quality are expected. The Merlin-2 well is independently assessed to have a geological chance of success of 56%.







Regional REIT Ltd - London-based real estate investment trust - "Very encouraged" by the high level of rent collections for the three months to September 30. As at Thursday last week, the company had collected 91.3% of the rent due for the third quarter of 2021. This comprised rent received of 87.5%, monthly rents of 2.1% and agreed collection plans of 1.7%. The company remains in supportive and ongoing discussions with tenants regarding the remainder of the outstanding rent, and expects to collect the vast majority of it in due course.







Franchise Brands PLC - Manchester-based owner of ChipsAway, Willow Pumps and Metro Rod brands - Says confident of meeting consensus market expectations for 2021, with revenue at GBP58.2 million compared to GBP49.3 million posted for 2020. The company has continued to perform strongly during the three months to September 30, with adjusted earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization for the quarter and year-to-date reaching a record level. Going forward, the company says it continues to seek opportunities to utilise its considerable balance sheet strength to complement organic growth.







e-Therapeutics PLC - Long Hanborough, England-based drug discovery platform - Posts widened pretax loss for the six months to July 31 of GBP3.5 million compared to GBP2.7 million recorded a year earlier. This is due to research & development expenditure jumping to GBP2.5 million from GBP1.2 million in the first half of financial 2020. Revenue, meanwhile, rises to GBP477,000 from GBP37,000 year-on-year. In addition, reports the results of the company's RNAi platform characterisation studies, which shows "excellent and comparable" safety profile. Benchmarking studies included one approved RNAi drug and one currently in registration. "The company is now in a position to execute on its ambition of developing an in-house pipeline combining novel target ideas generated using its computational biology platform, and RNAi as a modality," says Chief Executive Ali Mortazavi.







Craven House Capital PLC - London-based merchant bank - Says its investee company YRRO Ltd, in which it owns 29%, has passed resolutions to change its name to Bio Vitos Ltd. In addition, YRRO agreed with Double Bond Pharmaceuticals AB to acquire the licence for its patented, therapeutic application of the active substance iron succinate. The patented application proprietary to Double Bond Pharmaceuticals is marketed in the US, Japan, China and the EU as Inofer. In consideration for the acquisition of the licence, shareholders of Double Bond Pharmaceuticals will receive a 20% shareholding in YRRO via the issuance of new shares in YRRO. As a result, Craven House's holding will be diluted down to 25%.







By Evelina Grecenko; evelinagrecenko@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2021 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Today

Sunny. High 74F. Winds light and variable.

Tonight

Mostly clear skies during the evening will give way to low clouds and fog after midnight. Low 57F. Winds light and variable.

Tomorrow

Partly cloudy skies. Slight chance of a rain shower. High around 75F. Winds light and variable.
LANSING  Michigan prison policy fails to consider good behavior and rehabilitation when it comes to parole, some advocates say.

Without rehabilitation, prison time can be pointless, said Rep. Tyrone Carter, D-Detroit. Carter is a sponsor of legislation intended to allow more consideration of prisoner self improvement efforts rather than focus on time served.

If you take your car to the car wash and it comes out dirty, whats the point? Carter said. Similarly, if people come out of a system the same way or worse, we failed them and we failed society.

Thats why House and Senate lawmakers have introduced bills to allow sentence reductions by the Department of Corrections of up to 20% for good behavior or participating in rehabilitative programs. The bills use different methods to reward inmates good behavior and productivity.

The Senate sponsor, Sen. Jeff Irwin, D-Ann Arbor, said he hopes it will work with the House package to make this change. The bills would open doors shut by the Truth in Sentencing law, Irwin said.

In 1998, voters passed Truth in Sentencing. It requires some inmates to serve their minimum sentences before they can be considered for parole.

Many of these people are not dangerous, and their release could save millions of tax dollars, Irwin said.

The Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police opposes changes to Truth in Sentencing, said Robert Stevenson, its executive director.

We dont think its needed, and we dont think its fair, Stevenson said.

The law is needed to ensure uniformity, Stevenson said.

Before Truth in Sentencing, sentences for the same crime could vary widely based on location and the Corrections Department could reduce time served beyond prisoners minimums.

Stevenson said the proposed changes would take away judges discretion and are unfair to victims.

Its hard to get into prison in Michigan, believe it or not, Stevenson said. You really do have to do some pretty serious violations, and multiple, to get into prison.

Therefore, the proposal would really impact only violent offenders, Stevenson said, and prisoners should be kept for at least their minimum sentence, he said.

But Irwin said that Michigan does a poor job distinguishing which people are violent Additionally, the state has a high population of elderly prisoners whose release likely wouldnt pose a safety threat.

Parole relies too much on the quantity of time spent, not how it was spent, said Irwin, and rehabilitation should be a factor in release.

Carter said the House and Senate bills attempt to do that in different ways, but both want the same thing The House package would introduce productivity credits, based on participation in rehabilitative programs.

These programs are to prepare prisoners for release as rehabilitated members of society. That could involve obtaining a GED, higher education or skills in a particular craft.

Irwins bill would motivate prisoners by offering good time credits, which are given for good behavior and avoiding trouble.

Priscilla Bordayo, the coordinator of Lansings chapter of Crime Survivors for Safety and Justice, agrees that good behavior should be rewarded. As a victim of crime, Bordayo believes mercy and justice must go hand in hand.

I believe that they should serve their time, she said. But Im more focused on what theyre doing with that time.

The Corrections Department hasnt taken a position, said Chris Gautz, its public information officer.

These rehabilitation programs already exist and would not require new funding to implement, he said.

The only cost for credit programs like those is administrative staff, Irwin said. Those costs would be offset by reducing long prison stays.

Despite that, Attorney General Dana Nessel has called the bills unnecessary and detrimental.

These bills attempt to save the state money at a cost to be borne by crime victims and our communities, she wrote in a Detroit News editorial.

Thats also Stevensons main argument.

Lets say you lost a sister or a brother to crime, theyre gone forever, right? he said. The person that killed them, should they be back out enjoying their life when theyre 60 or 65?

However, Bordayo said she has problems with that logic because those arent life sentences and those inmates will be released eventually.

So, Bordayo said, the real question should be whether those released have had a chance to better themselves.

Additionally, not all victims want the same things, she said. And victims and their families will be kept in the loop from start to finish about possible releases.

These decisions will still ultimately be for the parole board, Bordayo said. But programs that recognize and reward good behavior and progress would incentivize improvement.

What most victims want, more than just justice, is what happened to them to not be repeated, Bordayo said. So to me as a victim, thats a win-win.
Julia A. Johnston, 68, of Wilburton, OK passed away at her home in Wilburton on Sunday, November 14, 2021. Services will be on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 at 2 p.m. at the Waldrop Funeral Home Chapel in Wilburton, OK with the burial to follow in the Peachland Cemetery in Bengal, Oklahoma. O
Crawford Central School Board members heard anti-mask sentiments from four more district residents at their meeting Monday. Though the board has shown no signs of wavering in enforcing the mandate for students, Monday marked the third consecutive meeting in which mandate critics opted not to wear masks and met no resistance from district officials in doing so.
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However, it was not clear if the improvement of the low-dose vaccine was due to the dose itself or the fact that people who received the lower dose had also had a longer time between the first and the second shot, known as an extended prime-boost interval.Scientists from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine tested the effect of a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine prime dose in mice and found that a lower-dose first shot, followed by a full-dose booster shot, significantly improved the potency of a SARS-CoV-2 vaccine.The booster shot produced more antibodies and T-cells in the mice, allowing them to develop much more robust immune responses against SARS-CoV-2, the study found.The findings were recently published in the journalVaccine clinical trials use a method known as dose escalation, in which one person receives a lower dose and is boosted with that same lower dose; a second person receives a higher dose and is boosted with that same higher dose, and so on."The idea is to make sure the vaccine is safe, so scientists use dose escalation to determine the 'goldilocks zone': what is the minimum dose of vaccine that you can give to someone while still getting a good immune response?" said lead author Pablo Penaloza-MacMaster, assistant professor of microbiology-immunology at Feinberg.The Northwestern study did not use the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine but instead used one that was similar: an adenovirus serotype 5 vaccine that is akin to the Chinese-developed CanSino and Russian-developed Sputnik V vaccines. Penaloza-MacMaster said their ongoing studies are now examining this dosing regimen in mRNA vaccines.In the AstraZeneca trial, participants who received the full first dose were boosted around three to four weeks after the first shot whereas those who received the lower dose had a much more extended prime-boost interval.The Northwestern study replicated this extended prime-boost interval in mice, and also reported that increasing the prime-boost interval improves the immune response."An extended prime-boost interval allows the immune system to rest and mature in a way that the immune response can then expand more robustly upon a booster vaccination," Penaloza-MacMaster said. "The longer you wait before boosting, the better that secondary immune response will be."This can be a tricky game, though, he said, because waiting longer to boost might increase one's susceptibility of getting the virus."With a pandemic, it's ethically challenging to extend that prime-boost interval because you need people to get fully protected as soon as possible," Penaloza-MacMaster said."But this approach may have its benefits in terms of improving the durability and magnitude of immune responses in the long run, which may be useful not just for SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, but also for other vaccines."The team also observed similar positive effects of lowering vaccine doses with an experimental HIV vaccine based on an adenovirus vector, suggesting that these findings may be generalizable to other vaccines.Other authors of this study include Sarah Sanchez, Nicole Palacio and Tanushree Dangi, members of the Penaloza-MacMaster laboratory at Northwestern University.Source: Eurekalert
submitted photo

The Mississippi Childrens Museum  Meridian, represented by its executive director, Liz Wilson, was named 2021 Travel Attraction of the Year by the Mississippi Tourism Association at the Mississippi Governors Conference for Tourism.
Photo courtesy of Karry Degruise Photography

Maj. James Kevin Polk (standing), poses with Ashley, Dustin and baby Julia Lane Smith at the home of Karry Degruise in Bolton, Mississippi, Sept. 6, 2021. Polk, an Air National Guard flight nurse with the 183rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, Mississippi National Guard, delivered the baby and provided lifesaving assistance to Ashley and Julia, saving both of their lives, Sept. 5.
Arrangements are currently incomplete at Berry and Gardner Funeral Home for Mr. William "Sonny" McGruder, 71, of Enterprise, who passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021, at his residence.
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There has been a rise in sightings of all-black American flags in Florida and across the country. While not only sinister in appearance, the meaning is even more so: no quarter. Their sharp spike began with a tweet about a police officer in Illinois who hung this flag outside his house and
AG Nessel, Department of Civil Rights File to Protect Citizens from Sexual Orientation Discrimination Before Michigan Supreme Court

AG Nessel, Department of Civil Rights File to Protect Citizens from Sexual Orientation Discrimination Before Michigan Supreme Court

Media contact: Lynsey Mukomel 517-599-2746

Public inquiries: 517-335-7622

October 25, 2021

LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, on behalf of the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) and the director of the MDCR, is challenging a Court of Claims' ruling that the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act (ELCRA) does not prohibit discrimination because of an individual's sexual orientation. The Michigan Supreme Court has agreed to hear the landmark case.

"We're arguing before the Michigan Supreme Court that all Michiganders are entitled to the same civil rights. It's long past time for our State to recognize sexual orientation as protected from discrimination under the law," Nessel said.

The lawsuit, Rouch World LLC et al v Michigan Department of Civil Rights et al, was brought by businesses that denied services to customers who were either a same-sex couple or an individual who was transitioning their gender identity.

In 2018, the Michigan Civil Rights Commission (MCRC) adopted an interpretive statement that "sex," as used in the ELCRA, included protections for individuals on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. This interpretation by the MCRC allowed the MDCR to begin processing complaints of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Complaints about the plaintiff businesses were filed in 2019 with the MDCR, which began its investigation. In early 2020, plaintiffs filed suit, asking the Court to rule that the MDCR has no jurisdiction to investigate complaints based on sexual orientation or gender identity and that the MCRC had no authority to issue the 2018 interpretive statement that sexual orientation and gender Identity were covered under ELCRA.

Court of Claims Judge Christopher Murray, in his opinion issued on Dec. 7, 2020, sided with the MCRC's interpretive statement that the ELCRA provides protections for "gender identity." But, as to sexual orientation discrimination, he concluded that he was bound by a 1993 Court of Appeals ruling in Barbour v Department of Social Services, which held that sexual orientation does not fall within the meaning of sex under ELCRA. The 28-year-old Barbour decision, however, relied on federal precedent that is no longer valid in light of the U.S. Supreme Court decision, Bostock v Clayton Co. In Bostock, the U.S. Supreme Court held that discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is a form of sex discrimination.

Under the Michigan Court Rules, the Court of Claims and the Court of Appeals are bound by prior published decisions of the Court of Appeals issued on or after November 1, 1990, such as Barbour. But, given that this issue is of highest public importance and affects the daily lives of many Michigan residents, AG Nessel and MDCR filed a bypass application in the Michigan Supreme Court, seeking a prompt review of this matter. The Michigan Supreme Court agreed the case warranted immediate review.

As stated in the brief, "All Michiganders are entitled to the same civil rights-the right to be free from actionable discrimination in employment, public accommodations and public services, housing, and educational facilities." Depriving lesbian and gay Michiganders the protections under the ELCRA is both a "stigmatizing injury" and a "deprivation of personal dignity."
AG Nessel Hosts Second Stop of Power Outage Listening Tour in Battle Creek

AG Nessel Hosts Second Stop of Power Outage Listening Tour in Battle Creek

Lynsey Mukomel 517-599-2746 Attorney General

October 25, 2021

LANSING - Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel hosted a discussion in Battle Creek Monday evening to hear directly from those impacted by repeated power outages this summer.

The public event was the second stop of Nessel's Power Outage Listening Tour. The feedback further assists AG Nessel as she continues to advocate for Michigan consumers before the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), which regulates utility companies. An online feedback form is also available on the Department's homepage or by visiting directly here.

"I continue to be so grateful for the public's input on our state's utilities," Nessel said. "We must approach our ongoing utility shortfalls with urgency, which is why hearing directly from consumers remains an invaluable piece to informing my continued advocacy before the MPSC. Prioritizing customer impact remains our best approach to well-informed policies and expectations for the utility companies. I appreciate Rep. Haadsma's assistance in organizing the Battle Creek stop of my listening tour and the commission's continued participation in these public forums."

Last week, the Department of Attorney General participated in the MPSC's first day of its Technical Conference on Emergency Preparedness, Distribution Reliability, and Storm Damage, which was organized in response to prolonged summer power outages.

In August, Nessel launched an online feedback initiative focused on the state's power companies amid recent and prolonged outages, which has received close to 4,500 responses to date. Initial data collected from the online input was recently referenced in comments filed with the MPSC at the beginning of the month.

Those unable to attend, as well as residents statewide, are encouraged to share their outage experience online through the Department's Outage Feedback Form.
MSHDA Board closer to naming permanent executive director, approves loan and bond commitments for affordable housing projects

MSHDA Board closer to naming permanent executive director, approves loan and bond commitments for affordable housing projects

October 26, 2021

Media Contacts:

Katie Bach, BachK@michigan.gov

Anna Vicari, VicariA@michigan.gov



Lansing, Mich. - The Michigan State Housing Development Authority Board took a step toward naming a new executive director last week, approving a resolution that allows Board Chairwoman Susan Corbin to extend a conditional offer to a preferred candidate.

After lengthy discussion of the five applicants who participated in public interviews in July and August, the board narrowed its scope to two candidates then said Amy Hovey, special projects coordinator for the C.S. Mott Foundation headquartered in Flint, emerged as the preferred candidate. The decision was not unanimous.

The board identified and discussed the qualifications of Kelly Rose, MSHDA chief housing solutions officer, the second finalist. Other candidates reviewed included Cami M. Freeman, director of innovation, Illinois Housing Development Authority; Anthony Lentych, executive director, Traverse City and Elk Rapids housing commissions; and Sandra Pearson, president/CEO, Habitat for Humanity of Michigan.

Before her hire to the Civil Service position is approved, the board said Hovey must clear conflict of interest hurdles related to her spouse's business interests with MSHDA. Her hire is subject to review and approval of the State Ethics Review Board and an exception and waiver from the Department of Housing and Urban Development's Detroit Field Office.

Hovey would be the first woman to be named executive director of MSHDA (in a non-acting capacity) in its 55-year history. Corbin briefly held the position of acting executive director of the Authority several years ago.

"We had five outstanding candidates, and the majority of the board believes Amy offers unique private, public and nonprofit experience and extensive understanding of the housing industry," Corbin said. Citing Hovey's other roles working as a chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint), for the Center for Community Progress and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), Corbin added, "She is a true professional who brings creativity to problem solving and discussions around housing and is known for getting projects done."

Gary Heidel, who has been serving in an acting executive director capacity for more than two years, withdrew his candidacy for the permanent position earlier this year. He will return to his previous role as MSHDA's chief housing investment officer when the permanent executive director is in place.

In other action, the Board:
Adams Township clerk removed from election responsibilities

Adams Township clerk removed from election responsibilities

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Hillsdale County Clerk will run elections, ensure security and integrity

The Michigan Bureau of Elections has directed the Adams Township clerk to immediately cease administering elections in Adams Township, including next week's election, after the clerk failed to comply with legal requirements necessary to ensure the safety and security of upcoming elections. Hillsdale County Clerk Marney Kast's office will supervise elections in Adams Township until further notice.

"The voters of Adams Township expect, deserve, and have a right to have their election carried out in accordance with all state and federal laws," said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. "I am confident that the Hillsdale County Clerk's office will administer the election in a manner that ensures that it is legal, transparent, and secure."

The Adams Township clerk did not allow preventative maintenance on voting equipment, a necessary safeguard to ensure tabulators and voter assist terminals used by voters with disabilities are functioning properly on Election Day. She also stated that she was unwilling to complete required certifications of Public Accuracy Testing of voting machines - which confirms vote counting machines are accurate and is done transparently with public viewing allowed to affirm faith in their performance. The clerk also said she may try to conduct future elections without the certified voting equipment selected by Hillsdale County. Following multiple letters from the Bureau of Elections, she refused to confirm that she would fulfill her legal requirements.

Copies of all the letters from the Bureau of Elections to the Adams Township clerk can be viewed at this link.

# # #

For media questions, contact

Tracy Wimmer at 517-281-1876.

We welcome questions and comments at the Contact the Secretary of State page.

Customers may call the Department of State Information Center to

speak to a customer-service representative at 888-SOS-MICH (767-6424).
Governor Whitmer Announces New Leadership to Cabinet and State Agencies

Governor Whitmer Announces New Leadership to Cabinet and State Agencies

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 25, 2021

Contact: Press@Michigan.gov

Governor Whitmer Announces New Leadership to Cabinet and State Agencies

The state of Michigan welcomes new directors at UIA and DTMB, and names chief information officer

LANSING, Mich. - Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced a new appointment to lead the Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) and named an acting director to the Department of Technology, Management, and Budget (DTMB). The governor also designated a new chief information officer to lead the state's information technology (IT) efforts. These positions fill key leadership roles within the Whitmer-Gilchrist Administration with individuals who have decades of experience serving in high-level positions in state government.

"I am thrilled to have three qualified, skilled public servants join my administration to continue putting Michiganders first and get things done that make a real difference in people's lives," said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. "Julia, Michelle, and Laura bring a wealth of experience to their new roles and will help us continue to stay laser-focused on growing the economy, creating good-paying jobs, and making progress on the kitchen-table issues that matter most to families, communities, and small businesses."

Julia Dale, Director of UIA

Julia Dale will transition to director of the UIA from her position at DTMB. Julia most recently served as an assistant attorney general and Section Head of Business and Charities Section in the Office of the Attorney General and previously worked in various high-level roles at the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA). Julia received her J.D. at Wayne State University and her undergraduate degree at Michigan State University.

"Julia will hit the ground running and I am proud to have a permanent director leading the way at UIA," said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. "Under her leadership, I am confident that UIA will clear the backlog, tackle waste, fraud, and abuse, and get people the resources they need while saving taxpayer dollars."

"I am honored to continue serving my fellow Michiganders at the UIA," said Julia Dale. "As we emerge from the pandemic, there is so much work to do to ensure that we can deliver benefits to families who need them and I cannot wait to pursue long overdue changes and work with the incredible staff to get things done."

Liza Estlund Olson, who currently serves as acting director, will remain at UIA temporarily to help with the transition before returning to her previous role as director at the Office of the State Employer.

Michelle Lange, Acting Director of DTMB

Michelle Lange will serve as acting director at DTMB. She has held key leadership positions within DTMB in recent years, including chief deputy director, director of Executive Direction and Operations, chief of staff to the director, and as the department legislative liaison. Lange has worked under both Democratic and Republican governors, serving for Governor Whitmer under the chief operating officer and for Governor Rick Snyder as deputy director of Legislative Affairs. She also served as a judge on the Michigan Tax Tribunal and spent 12 years as a staff member in the Michigan Senate. Lange has both a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and a Juris Doctor from Michigan State University.

"Michelle has served in several high-level roles at DTMB and will continue moving the department forward as we work to find a permanent director," said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. "Her decades of experience working across the aisle will help her steward the department and support state government as we stay laser-focused on growing our economy and putting more Michiganders on paths to prosperity."

"DTMB is an outstanding organization of experienced and dedicated professionals who work to help, connect, and solve the issues of the day, and I am excited for the opportunity to lead the team," said Michelle Lange. "I am committed to continuing to provide top-notch administrative services to state departments, ensuring they can keep getting the job done for all Michiganders. Michigan's families, communities, and small business are counting on us."

The State of Michigan will conduct a nationwide search to select a permanent DTMB director.

Laura Clark, Chief Information Officer

Laura Clark will take the helm as the state's chief information officer (CIO), directing the state's technology and digital security efforts. Laura currently holds the position of chief security officer and will retain those duties. She has served in various leadership positions within government for more than 20 years, leading IT services, strategies, and systems. Laura holds a Bachelor of Science in geography from Michigan State University.

"Laura's leadership plays a key role in keeping state employees safe online and helps them focus on getting things done for families," said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. "I am thrilled to have her perspective and expertise so we can continue delivering for Michiganders."

"Technology is paramount to delivering government services and I am committed to advancing innovative and safe solutions that reach all residents and businesses," said Laura Clark. "Michiganders deserve a government focused on delivering for them, and I am excited for the opportunity to make that a reality."

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OMAHA, Neb. (AP)  The Kellogg Co. is trying to persuade its 1,400 striking cereal-making workers to return to the bargaining table.

The Battle Creek, Michigan-based company said Monday that it sent a message to the Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union that represents those workers offering to resume contract talks. The workers have been on strike since Oct. 5.

"We have a responsibility to these employees  which is to engage in good faith bargaining toward a replacement agreement that gets them back to work, the company said.

In its statement, the company hinted that it might be willing to discuss proposals that would address its current two-tiered system that gives fewer benefits and less pay to newer workers, which has been a sticking point for the union. But Kellogg's didn't elaborate except to say it would consider proposals that would preserve a pathway for transitionals to legacy wages and benefits.

Dan Osborn, president of the union's local chapter in Omaha, Nebraska, said he believes the union is ready to return to the bargaining table if Kellogg's is serious about being willing to negotiate on that two-tiered wage system, but the company didn't immediately respond to questions the union sent Monday in response to the company's offer.

I'm hoping we can get back to the table and get a contract, Osborn said. People just want to go back to work.

The strike covers four plants that make all the company's well-known brands of cereal, including Fruit Loops and Frosted Flakes. The plants are in Battle Creek; Omaha; Lancaster, Pennsylvania; and Memphis, Tennessee. The company said it has resumed production at all four cereal plants with outside workers and salaried employees, so its not clear how the strike will affect cereal supplies.

The workers at Kellogg's and other companies where strikes have happened this year feel emboldened to act now because of ongoing labor shortages. Kellogg's workers also say many of them have been putting in 12-hour shifts on a routine basis to keep the plants operating during the coronavirus pandemic.

Earlier this summer, 600 Frito-Lay workers walked off the job in Topeka, Kansas, and 1,000 workers at five Nabisco plants across the country went on strike.

In another industry, more than 10,000 Deere Co. workers also went on strike earlier this month in search of better pay and benefits. Contract talks have resumed between Deere and the United Auto Workers union, but workers at 14 Deere plants have remained on strike since Oct. 14.
LAKE COUNTY  A 5-year-old male was transported to the hospital after an accidental shooting in Elk Township in Lake County this week.

Around 4:25 p.m. on Monday deputies from the Lake County Sheriffs Office and from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources responded to an incident of a child being shot with a hand gun on Oakwood Lane in Elk Township, according to a press release from the sheriff's office.
BIG RAPIDS  Community Mental Health for Central Michigan is requesting support from the Mecosta County Board of Commissioners with a resolution opposing two pieces of legislation in the Michigan House and Senate.

House Bill 4925 would amend the Mental Health Code to create a Behavioral Health Oversight Council within the Department of Health and Human Services to advise DHHS in developing and executing public behavioral health policies, programs, and services.

It would also authorize DHHS to contract with an administrative services organization, which would assume certain responsibilities from DHHS and DHHS-designated community mental health entities.

House Bills 4925 through 4929 would have a significant fiscal impact by moving to an ASO instead of utilizing 10 prepaid inpatient health plans.

Local PIHPs and their network of community mental health services programs currently manage Medicaid-funded specialty behavioral health supports and services.

With an ASO administering specialty behavioral health supports and services, the local CMHSPs would no longer be responsible for, and no longer be reimbursed for, the administrative costs of managing Medicaid-funded specialty behavioral health supports and services.

Senate Bill 597 would amend the Social Welfare Act to require the DHHS to integrate the administration and provision of Medicaid physical health care services and behavioral health specialty services through the creation of specialty integrated plans, and to contract with each CMHSP within its service area to provide behavioral health specialty services.

Senate Bill 598 would amend the Mental Health Code to include SIPs as well as local public behavioral health entities as eligible providers of publicly funded behavioral health services, and require the DHHS to establish a competitive contract and procurement process that outlined the eligibility requirements for entities to apply to provide services as a SIP.

Under the bill, both physical health and behavioral health Medicaid coverage for these populations eventually would be exclusively covered by the SIPs.

The function of the PIHPs would be phased out as responsibility for Medicaid behavioral health services for these populations.

We are here today to ask for your support of a resolution to oppose two legislative proposals that will undermine local control and will result in reduced funding, director John Obermesik told county commissioners during a recent meeting. The opposition is rooted in the intended transfer of $3 million from the public system over to the private mental health providers in the state. They intend, by legislation, to defund the community mental health agencies, and we cant have that.

Obermesik said the Community Mental Health for Central Michigan has served the community for over 50 years as a public mental health safety net.

We provide services for severe mental disturbance and mental illness, using evidence-based practices for families and individuals, and help people live independently in the community, he said. We are now embarking on a two-year process of expanding that role to serve persons with mild to moderate needs as well as severe. We are proud of our partnerships with hospitals, doctors, jail support, schools and a wide array of other organizations.

The resolution, unanimously approved by the board, states, Michigans community mental health system has pioneered mental health innovation and promising practices not available outside of the system and has delivered them effectively and efficiently benefiting consumers and taxpayers.

The recent proposals in the House and Senate fundamentally change the public behavioral health system by ending public oversight, guidance and accountability, the resolution states.

The two proposals, as they currently stand, threaten the CMH's ability to deliver services and shifts responsibility for managing public services to private health plans and to the state, effectively damaging county level oversight and control.

In addition, it states, the public system is demonstrably and significantly more efficient at moving taxpayer money into services and not into administration, infrastructure or profit.

In a letter to the Senate Government Operations Committee, the Michigan Association of Counties stated the bills would privatize the system and threaten to eliminate key components of care at the local community level.

The changes proposed do very little to improve care and access for people with mental illness or addiction, and focus solely on the administrative/managed care level and not the direct service level."

The letter urges policy makers to give the system a chance to grow by encouraging additional collaboration to focus on integrating care ..., increasing access ..., and focusing on prevention and diversion.

'WE HAVE BEEN EFFECTIVE'

The Michigan Community Mental Health Act of 1963 permitted counties to form Community Mental Health boards to support and treat people with severe mental illness, developmental disabilities and substance abuse disorders outside of psychiatric hospitals and institutions.

Under the law, counties could create CMHs in conjunction with other counties or on their own.

CMHCM was created by the Mecosta County Board of Commissioners, along with the boards of Clare, Gladwin, Isabella, Midland and Osceola counties. It is governed by a board of directors appointed by the boards of each participating county and includes commissioners, and citizens from the local communities.

Since 1965, the number of CMHs in the state has increased from 12 to 46, covering all 83 counties.

Medicaid is the major source of funding for Michigans publicly funded mental health system, and care under a CMH is an entitled benefit under Medicaid.

Care for non-Medicaid individuals uses state general fund dollars. State general fund dollars are allocated to each CMH based on funding formulas that are modified at the states discretion.

CMHCM exists because you created it under the state mental health code, Obermesik said. This mental health network is based on community health dollars and is the pass through for around $700 million in Medicaid funds, distributed to 11 different community mental health agencies.

Obermesik said that in 2020, the agency served over 10,000 people in the six-county region that were high priority  1,461 of those served were in Mecosta County and 2,800 were children.

Like other health care entities and essential services, our agencies stayed open during the pandemic to serve individuals, provide support and coordinate for urgent needs, he said. Our staff handled over 2,870 urgent needs calls  a 55% increase over previous years.

He added that, in addition, the agency reduced admissions to hospitals by 7% and reduced the number of individuals using the emergency room by 33% over the previous 12 months.

Using additional available general fund dollars, he said, they were able to hire additional professional staff including a jail diversion specialist, an eligibility specialist, and a new intervention specialist.

We are investing those funds in community collaboration areas, such as jail diversion, as well as working with schools and other community doctors not funded by Medicaid, Obermesik said.

Catherine Beagle, program director for the Mecosta County Center, told the board that the CMHCM intervention specialists program, servicing both Mecosta and Osceola counties, continues to go strong.

They are in schools and the courts, working with youth to determine those at risk, and working to connect them with services throughout the community, Beagle said.

She said that through the jail diversion program, in 2020, they were able divert 74 individuals from jail into more appropriate options for improved mental health.

We have been effective in finding whatever alternatives are available for diverting individuals from the jail system, Beagle said. He (jail diversion specialist) is there to be a consultant to jail administrators, law enforcement and medical staff, as well as counsel those that are incarcerated.

Whereas previously people would have to wait to be released to get an assessment, he is able to do the assessment right there in the jail and do the agency coordination for those who may be homeless or have other critical needs, she said.

The resolutions states the board requests that policy makers support, improve and strengthen the public behavioral safety net system and support improvements in the publicly governed and operated regional and community based systems.
MANISTEE  A Grand Rapids man was arraigned on Monday in Manistee Countys 19th Circuit Court on 10 charges relating to an incident involving a shotgun in Manistee in August.

Kenneth Ray Williams, 41, of Grand Rapids, appeared in person for arraignment by Judge David Thompson.

Williams also had a habitual offender notice which enhances the possible punishment of the charges. He was arraigned on the following:

 Count one alleges assault with a dangerous weapon which is punishable by up to 15 years in prison;

 Count two is a felony firearm charge that is a mandatory two-year sentence;

 Count three is possession of a firearm by a felon which is up to life in prison;

 Count four is a felony firearm charge which carries a maximum of two years in prison;

 Count five is a charge of possession of a firearm by a felon which is punishable by up to life in prison;

 Count six is a charge of felony firearm which is punishable by a maximum of two years in prison;

 Count seven is a charge of carrying a concealed weapon and it is punishable by up to life in prison

 Count eight is carrying concealed weapons which is punishable by up to life in prison.

 Count nine is possession of methamphetamine which is punishable by up to life in prison; and

 Count 10 is a charge of brandishing a firearm in public which is a 90 day misdemeanor.

Williams entered a plea of not guilty to each charge and opted to represent himself.

Thompson noted that the Michigan Supreme Court has observed dangers of self representation that may place Williams at a disadvantage. However, Thompson said it was Williams choice to waive the right to representation.

On Aug. 9, the Manistee City Police department reported in a news release that it was dispatched to a call on the 300 block of Fifth Avenue for a report that a man was threatening another person with a shotgun.

The man reportedly fled the scene in a vehicle.

Responding officers were able to locate the vehicle and suspect a couple blocks from the scene. A subsequent investigation resulted in the seizure of a shotgun, a stolen handgun and controlled substances, reads part of the previous news release.

In August, Williams had been lodged at the Manistee County Jail in August and bond was set at $200,000, 10% cash or surety.

At arraignment on Monday, Thompson said Williams bond would be continued.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  A Wisconsin judge laid out the final ground rules Monday on what evidence will be allowed when Kyle Rittenhouse goes on trial next week for shooting three people during a protest against police brutality, ruling he'll permit testimony from the defense's use-of-force expert and on how police welcomed Rittenhouse and others carrying guns during the demonstration.

The hearing was likely the last before Rittenhouse goes on trial Nov. 1 for the shootings during chaotic demonstrations in Kenosha on Aug. 25, 2020, two days after a white police officer in that city shot a Black man, Jacob Blake, in the back while responding to a domestic disturbance.

Rittenhouse, 18, of Antioch, Illinois, was among a number of people who responded to calls on social media to take up arms and come to Kenosha to respond to the protests. Rittenhouse, who is white, is charged with homicide and other crimes in the fatal shootings of Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and the wounding of Gaige Grosskreutz, all also white.

Rittenhouse's attorneys want use-of-force expert John Black to testify that Rittenhouse acted in self-defense. Prosecutors have asked Judge Bruce Schroeder to block Black's testimony, arguing that jurors don't need an expert to understand what happened that night.

Schroeder told the attorneys that Black wouldn't be allowed to testify about what Rittenhouse was thinking when he pulled the trigger or whether he definitively acted in self-defense.

Assistant District Attorney Thomas Binger said if Schroeder allowed Black to testify only about the timeline of events that night he wouldn't call his own expert to the stand. Defense attorney Mark Richards agreed to the deal.

Binger asked Schroeder to bar a video that shows police telling Rittenhouse and other armed militia members on the streets that they appreciated their presence and tossing Rittenhouse a bottle of water. The prosecutor said the video would transform the trial into a referendum on police procedure that night when it isn't relevant.

This is a case about what the defendant did that night, Binger said. I'm concerned this will be turned into a trial about what law enforcement did or didn't do that night.

Defense attorney Corey Chirafisi argued the video shows that police felt Rittenhouse wasn't acting recklessly. Binger countered that the shootings happened after Rittenhouse interacted with the police, but Schroeder decided to allow the video.

If the jury is being told, if the defendant is walking down the sidewalk and doing what he claims he was hired to do and police say good thing youre here, is that something influencing the defendant and emboldening him in his behavior? That would be an argument for relevance," the judge said.

Schroeder also denied Binger's request to bar the defense from referring to Rosenbaum, Huber and Grosskreutz as rioters, looters or arsonists. The judge said those terms would be allowed if the defense can produce evidence showing that's what they were.

Many conservatives have flocked to support Rittenhouse, calling him a patriot and making him a symbol for gun rights and raising $2 million for his bail. Others, including some liberals and activists, portray him as a domestic terrorist and say he made a volatile situation worse.

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Associated Press writer Doug Glass contributed from Minneapolis.

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Follow Todd Richmond on Twitter at https://twitter.com/trichmond1
Looking for a spiffy pumpkin to spruce up you Halloween decor? Head over to the Bad Axe Area District Library and put a bid on one of the decorated gourds being sold in a silent auction to benefit the fight against polio.

The auction will run through Saturday, Oct. 30, with bidding coming to an end at noon Saturday. All proceeds of the silent auction will go to Rotarys work to eradicate polio.
NEW YORK (AP)  Details are still emerging about how Alec Baldwin accidentally shot and killed a cinematographer on a New Mexico film set, but some political onlookers swiftly assigned guilt to one of Hollywood's most prominent liberals.

Right-wing pundits and politicians have long chafed at Baldwins criticism of former President Donald Trump and his Trump parody on Saturday Night Live." They wasted little time zeroing in on the actor who pulled the trigger. The hashtag #AlecForPrison ricocheted around Twitter.

Within hours of the shooting, Ohio Republican Senate candidate J.D. Vance asked Twitter to let Trump back on the social media platform that banned him after the Capitol insurrection. We need Alec Baldwin tweets, Vance wrote.

By Monday, Trumps oldest son was selling $28 T-shirts on his official website with the slogan Guns dont kill people, Alec Baldwin kills people. The post was later removed.

Gun violence has long divided the country, but the fact that some observers seemed to revel in Baldwins role in the shooting added a political dimension to the tragedy. CNN host Jake Tapper on Sunday called Hutchins death heartbreaking for normal people.

But theres something about our politics right now that is driving people away from our shared humanity, Tapper said.

Court records provided some details about the death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of Rust near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Authorities have said that the assistant director, Dave Halls, handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced cold gun, indicating that the weapon was safe to use.

In an affidavit released Sunday night, the films director, Joel Souza, said Baldwin was rehearsing a scene in which he drew a revolver from his holster and pointed it toward the camera, which Hutchins and Souza were behind. Souza, who was wounded by the shot, said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds.

Its not clear yet where the gun-handling protocol failed. Souza said the movies guns were usually checked by armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and then again by Halls.

At least two people have aired doubts about Halls safety record.

In an email statement to The Associated Press, a producer for the movie Freedoms Path confirmed Monday that Halls was fired from the 2019 production after a crew member suffered a minor injury when a gun was unexpectedly discharged. The producer, who asked not to be identified by name, wrote that Halls was removed from the set immediately. Production did not resume until Halls was gone.

Prop maker Maggie Goll on Sunday said she filed an internal complaint in 2019 over concerns about Halls behavior on the set of Hulus Into the Dark series. Goll said Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician, who was diabetic, lost consciousness on set.

Neither Gutierrez-Reed nor Halls have responded to requests for comment on the shooting.

In the affidavit, cameraman Reid Russell said Baldwin had been careful with weapons. Russell was unsure whether the weapon was checked before it was handed to Baldwin.

In the aftermath of Hutchins death, many in the film industry have argued that real guns should be replaced entirely by computer-generated effects.

There should not have been a loaded gun on set, actor Riley Keough wrote on Instagram. We dont need real guns, we can make replicas, and we have CGI. In my opinion, that is the issue here. Not Alec Baldwin.

And yet, as director Gigi Saul Guerrero observed, Baldwin has been the face to this tragic story. The 63-year-old actor, a vocal advocate of gun-law reforms, has been widely mocked by the far-right on social media.

Literally not one single thing that Alec Baldwin has said about Donald Trump and his supporters is going to age well, tweeted conservative commentator Candace Owens.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Colorado Republican, cited a tweet of Baldwins last year supporting Black Lives Matter protesters in which Baldwin said he was going to make T-shirts that read: My hands are up. Please dont shoot me! Wrote Boebert: Alec Baldwin, are these still available? Asking for a movie producer.

Boebert received widespread criticism. Actor George Takei said Boebert had no soul." Actress Rosanna Arquette wrote: This was a tragic and horrible accident. Ms. Boebart and you should be ashamed of yourself politicizing it. But Boebert stood by her tweet.

"You crazy Blue Checks want to take away our right to defend ourselves with a firearm, and know NOTHING about basic gun safety!" Boebert wrote. If this was a conservative celebrity youd be calling for his head.

The films chief electrician, Serge Svetnoy, blamed producers for Hutchins death in an emotional Facebook post Sunday. Svetnoy faulted negligence and unprofessionalism among those handling weapons on the set, and claimed producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

Im sure that we had the professionals in every department, but one  the department that was responsible for the weapons, Svetnoy wrote. The person who should have checked this weapon before bringing it to the set did not do it. And the DEATH OF THE HUMAN IS THE RESULT!

A spokesman for the films production company, Rust Movie Productions LLC, has said it is cooperating with authorities and conducting an internal review. The company said it was halting production on the film but signaled it may resume in the future.

Baldwin has said he is cooperating with the law enforcement investigation and described the shooting as a tragic accident.

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Associated Press writers Hillel Italie in New York and Lindsey Bahr in Pittsburgh contributed to this report.
CHICAGO (AP)  An order barring the president of the police union from making public statements encouraging members to disobey the citys COVID-19 vaccine mandate expired after a judge on Monday denied a request to extend it.

Earlier this month, Cook County Judge Cecilia Horan granted the citys request for a temporary restraining order. After hearing arguments Monday, she issued a written ruling denying the city of Chicago's renewal and expansion request saying the situation had materially changed.

City attorneys wanted the order extended to include other union leaders in addition to Fraternal Order of Police President John Catanzara, accusing him of continuing to speak out or having other union officials do so in his place.

Mr. Catanzara continues to make statements that if not cross the line, come right up to over and certainly his toes are crossing the line, Mike Warner, an attorney for the city, said. These statements are adding gasoline to the fire. They are urging his members to engage in an unlawful act.

City employees have to be vaccinated by year's end with few exceptions or risk losing their jobs. Most departments complied with an initial deadline this month to report their status, but the police department has lagged behind in the escalating legal fight with the city.

The city argued the unions actions amounted to encouraging a work stoppage while union attorneys said the matter is part of a unfair labor dispute and the vaccine mandate was ordered without union input.

Horan said that the situation since the first injunction had changed since the Oct. 15 deadline to submit vaccination had passed and the threatened work stoppage has not come to pass.

Catanzara has directed members to defy the citys requirement and been outspoken in recent days on social media and in person. He spoke Monday to dozens of of protesters gathered outside Chicagos City Hall and during a City Council meeting.

This is not the way a government is supposed to run. It is not a queen on that throne. It is a mayor, he said during the meeting, adding that there'd be hundreds of officers defying the order.

He asked aldermen to back the union and support a proposal requiring council approval for policies that govern disciplining city employees, saying those who didn't would see challengers in the 2023 municipal election.

Chicago police leaders, who call the vaccine mandate a matter of protecting officers and the public, have said less than two dozen officers haven't complied with the order to the point of risking their employment. The city's order allows for a temporary window of regular COVID-19 testing at the employees own expense until vaccines can be administered.

Police Superintendent David Brown said Monday that 23 department employees were placed on no-pay status for failing to comply with the order. About 70% of department employees have reported their vaccination status, of which 80% are fully vaccinated, numbers that have recently increased.

We want to stay focused on protecting the people of Chicago. That includes the police officers of this department, Brown said. So we really see this as a life-saving effort for police officers ... Part of that means following through on the vaccine mandate.

___

Associated Press reporter Kathleen Foody contributed to this report.
David Eggert/AP

LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Prosecutors will not charge a Detroit-area lawmaker after an investigation into allegations from a fellow lawmaker who said he sent her threatening text messages following their breakup.

The head of Ingham Countys sexual assault/domestic violence unit reviewed an investigative report into Harrison Township Republican Rep. Steve Marino submitted by Michigan State Police to Prosecutor Carol Siemons office in late September. The official denied prosecution, said Scott Hughes, a spokesman for Siemons office.
Law enforcement officials for both Midland County and the City of Midland refute a claim that illegal immigrants have recently been housed locally.

The Midland County Sheriff's Department reported that no agency, on behalf of the state or federal governments, has discussed with Midland County officials the potential of housing migrants in a local community.

Midland Police Departments Brennon Warren said there has also been no recent discussion in the City of Midland  either from the community or within the police department  regarding migrants or illegal immigrants in Midland.

The law enforcement agencies debunk claims made in an anonymous statement that was provided to the Daily News from a concerned subscriber as part of an anonymous news tip.

The message claims illegal immigrants are now living or temporarily staying in a house on Eastman Avenue in Midland.

Government dropped off about a dozen illegals in Midland in the middle of the night Friday," the message read, implying that this happened on Oct. 22. However, Warren and Midland County Sheriff Myron Greene both said the above statement is unfounded.

"They are currently residing in a house on Eastman," the message continued. "No screening was done. So it begins.

Recently, the nearby community of Alma made national news regarding its zoning change to house migrants.

In Alma, which is approximately 30 miles southwest of Midland, the city commission approved a zoning change sought out by a local church to house migrant boys in a local former nursing home.

This news sparked controversy in the community: approval from Almas city commission went against the planning commission and others who had criticized the proposal during a series of summer meetings regarding the topic.

When the proposal was approved in mid-September, the meeting brought a crowd of 120 people.

For clarification, there is also a city called Midland and a Midland County in the state of Texas. In March, the Michigan Midland Daily Newss sister newspaper in Midland, Texas (also called the Midland Daily News), reported local facilities housing migrants in the southern U.S.

The Daily News reached out to the nearest regional office of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency in Detroit, which serves both the states of Michigan and Ohio. The Detroit office and press contacts with the federal agency were unable to be immediately reached.
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  A California police officer was convicted Tuesday of assault with a firearm in the 2018 fatal shooting of an unarmed mentally ill man who was shot nine times while driving away from police in a wealthy San Francisco suburb.

An attorney for the man's family called it a major step forward in holding law enforcement accountable.

After deliberating barely two days, the jury delivered a split verdict in the case against Officer Andrew Hall, who now faces up to 17 years in prison. They agreed Hall was guilty of the felony charge of wrongfully firing his gun in the death of 33-year-old Laudemer Arboleda.

But the jury deadlocked on another and more serious count of voluntary manslaughter. Halls sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 14, according to the Contra Costa County district attorneys office, which says it is deciding whether to pursue a retrial on the manslaughter charge.

The case marked the first time a police officer was charged in an on-duty shooting in Contra Costa County, east of San Francisco, and is part of a push by more prosecutors to punish police misconduct after the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis set off nationwide calls for social justice.

Todays guilty verdict holds accountable defendant Andrew Hall for his excessive use of force in the fatal shooting of Laudemer Arboleda, District Attorney Diana Becton said in a statement. His actions were not only a crime, but they tarnished the badge and they harmed the reputation of all the good, hard-working police officers that work for our community.

Becton faced criticism for spending more than two years reviewing the case before filing charges on April 21, 2021. The announcement of charges came a day after a jury convicted Minneapolis police Officer Derek Chauvin of killing Floyd.

It also came six weeks after Hall, who is white, shot and killed another man, Tyrell Wilson, a Black homeless man whose family said was suffering from depression and paranoia. The shooting of Wilson remains under investigation.

The fatal shootings  in a span of 2 1/2 years by the same officer  cast a spotlight on what criminal justice activists call a case of delayed justice and its deadly consequences. The Contra Costa Sheriffs Office, which has a contract to provide police services to Danville, had cleared Hall of misconduct after its own nine-month investigation into Arboledas shooting.

Civil rights lawyer John Burris, who represents Arboledas family in a separate civil lawsuit, said the assault conviction offered a measure of justice to the family but also left them disappointed.

For them there was no acknowledgement that (Arboleda) was killed wrongfully by the police. They thought he should have been charged with murder, not manslaughter, said Burris, who nonetheless felt the verdict showed progress.

It sends a message to other police officers that clearly you can be prosecuted and you can be convicted, said Burris, whose roster of high-profile police violence cases includes Rodney King and Oscar Grant.

Its a major step forward in looking at holding police officers accountable, Burris said. This was important. Is it a George Floyd ramification? Perhaps. But I also think its a drumbeat of what has taken place over the past 30 years from Rodney King to now.

During Halls three-week trial, prosecutors and defense attorneys presented competing narratives, alternately asking the jury to sympathize with the officers need to make split-second decisions or the troubled victim whose only crime was not stopping for police.

The events unfolded on Nov. 3, 2018, after a resident called 911 to report that a man later identified as Arboleda was knocking on doors and lingering outside homes in a Danville cul-de-sac. When officers arrived, they saw Arboleda get into into his car and drive away.

Arboleda led officers on a 9-minute, slow-speed chase through Danville. Hall was not involved in the initial pursuit but stopped his vehicle at an intersection to block Arboledas car. Police video shows Hall stepping in the path of Arboledas vehicle and firing a volley of shots into the windshield and passenger-side window.

Prosecutors argued Hall used excessive, unreasonable and unnecessary force. During opening remarks prosecutor Colleen Gleason presented dashboard and bodycam footage showing Hall jumping out of his car, running up to Arboledas vehicle and firing repeatedly into the cars windows.

The defendant fired 10 shots into the slow-moving vehicle of a mentally ill man, Gleason said. Nine of the bullets hit Arboleda, who had periodically shown signs of depression, but began displaying concerning behavior in the months before his death. Just months before his encounter with Hall, Arboleda was involuntarily committed to a psychiatric hospital for three weeks and prescribed medication for psychosis and schizophrenia, his family has said.

Halls lawyers said the officer feared for his safety, and used body cam footage from different angles to show the right front tire of Arboledas car was pointed at Hall when the shooting started, indicating it was heading in his direction.

During the trial, defense attorney Harry Stern emphasized the quick life-or-death decisions Hall had to make.

Really this comes down to about a two-second window, Stern told reporters earlier in the trial. Thats what this case is all about.

Stern could not immediately be reached for comment after Tuesdays verdict.

___

This story has been corrected to show that the jury deadlocked on a second count of voluntary manslaughter.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  A Michigan group has raised $2.5 million from a liberal nonprofit to fight a Republican-backed ballot drive that would toughen voter ID requirements, ban the unsolicited mailing of absentee ballot applications and make other election changes.

Protect MI Vote received the funding from Sixteen Thirty Fund, a Washington, D.C.-based group backed by anonymous donors on the left, according to a report filed with the state Monday. Protect MI Vote had spent nearly $1.6 million as of last week, mostly to pay FieldWorks, a company working to defeat the initiative.

Secure MI Vote, which recently began circulating petitions, does not have to submit its campaign finance statement until Nov. 2. If the ballot committee collects roughly 340,000 valid voter signatures, the GOP-led Legislature can enact the changes into law without Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's signature.

She will soon veto similar legislation passed by Republican lawmakers.

FieldWorks' website says it is opening offices in Detroit, Flint, Lansing and Troy. It is paying $20 to $22 an hour.

The Michigan Democratic Party is encouraging people to decline to sign the petition and to call a hotline to alert Protect MI Vote of circulators' whereabouts. Field teams will be dispatched to the same areas to educate voters.

Jamie Roe, spokesman for Secure MI Vote, said of the effort: Out-of-state leftists funding an operation designed to create confrontation and conflict  thats voter intimidation and an attempt to suppress a right guaranteed by the Michigan Constitution.

Supporters say the initiative, which follows a wave of new laws in Republican-controlled states that tighten election rules, would secure voting and restore confidence in elections. Opponents say it would make it harder to vote and perpetuate false claims that widespread fraud enabled Democrat Joe Biden to win the presidential election.

Voter fraud is extremely rare. Michigan has charged just five people with attempted fraud in last November's election.

The measure would require absentee voters to provide a copy of their photo ID with the application or to include their drivers license number, state ID number or the last four digits of their Social Security number. It would eliminate the ability for in-person voters without an ID to sign an affidavit and vote.

Instead, they  and absentee voters who fail to attach ID information  could cast a provisional ballot and have to verify their identity within six days of the election for it to count.

The initiated legislation also would require the last four digits of a Social Security number to register to vote. The secretary of state and local clerks would be prohibited from sending absentee applications to people who did not request them. The initiative also would specify minimum times that clerks must accept absentee ballots for in-person or drop box delivery, prohibit the use of private donations to administer elections and create a $3 million fund to waive ID fees for low-income people.

The funding shields the measure from a later referendum.

___

Follow David Eggert at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
US Army Corps of Engineers Data

The Great Lakes water level is expected to continue to decline for the coming months, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

A seasonal decline in water levels is expected for all of the Great Lakes heading into the winter. This decline is a normal fluctuation for this time of year. This fluctuation is discussed by Detroit District Watershed Hydrology Section Chief Keith Kompoltowicz and Watershed Hydrology Section Physical Scientist and lead water level forecaster Dee Apps in the most recent installment of "On the Level."
PONTIAC, Mich. (AP)  An 80-year-old woman has been shot in the face during an apparent drive-by shooting in southeastern Michigan.

The woman was sitting in the drivers seat of her parked car in Pontiac Sunday afternoon when she was shot, the Oakland County sheriffs office said Monday.
MIDDLETOWN  City stakeholders would like to see the preservation of green spaces, and more cultural activities and recreation options as part of the ongoing master plan for Connecticut riverfront development.

Business leaders, residents, municipal employees, common council members, students and others were among those who weighed in recently on what theyd like to see at Middletowns Harbor Park and River Road areas, at the first of several community forums surrounding the Return To the RiverBend project.

The riverbend refers to Middletowns location on the big bend in the river, which was formerly a thriving port founded by settlers in the Colonial era. The area is roughly bordered by Route 9 and includes Eastern Drive and River Road.

Cassandra Day / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo /

The presentation and feedback session was recently conducted virtually.

The results will be incorporated into the master plan created by New York-based architectural firm Cooper Robertson, in conjunction with Karp Strategies and Langan.

Mayor Ben Florsheim recently signed a $1.57 million contract with Cooper Robertson to create a long-awaited redevelopment plan for the riverfront.

More than 150 people took part in the session. Florsheim told those taking part in the session that the master plan is all about you.

Mayor Ben Florsheim / Contributed photo

Florsheim called this current process the end of a beginning, referring to decades of efforts to open the riverfront to economic development.

Its the end of a period with a lot of talking and dreaming and speculating, and towards the brass tacks of putting together the vision and the plan, and the execution strategy to make happen what we need to see happen here in Middletown, the mayor said.

Karp Strategies principal Alexandra Sutherland-Brown, one of the consultant teams working on the project, was the forum host.

The project expands on past efforts, Alan Patterson of Karp Strategies said. Its clear that the time is now, he said. This is a generational opportunity.

Sutherland-Brown asked participants to choose their top three priorities as identified in 2020 by the city. They include putting Middletown people and their needs at the center of the planning process, creating a network of public spaces, promoting environmental sustainability and resiliency, and creating an equitable accessible and healthy place.

Mayor Ben Florsheim / Contributed photo

Common Council Deputy Majority Leader Grady Faulkner said hed like to see the plan include activities for youth.

Former Water & Sewer Department head Guy Russo said Middletown has spent a considerable amount of money so far on land acquisitions and restructuring the water and sewer office.

Its important that whatever we do contributes back to the taxable base and the grand list of the city, so we can start to recuperate some of that investment, Russo said. It would be a generator going forward so we could do additional work.

Cassandra Day / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo /

Majority Leader Gene Nocera said hed like to see the plan incorporate a workspace as is being done in Manchester. It turned out to be a phenomenal asset for Manchester and the surrounding communities

Its a place for business people to go; to connect, Nocera said. There are 14 private offices, theres an art gallery, multimedia, all for startup companies involved in traveling and connecting with people in the area. I would love to see it by our river.

Mayor Ben Florsheim / Contributed photo

Minority Leader Phil Pessina grew up near the riverfront. I swam, fished, saw many great events on the river, such as boat races, the Head of the Connecticut Regatta and others, he said.

It used to be, as a kid growing up, a very vibrant place for activity, for recreation, for families coming down and seeing these events, being part of the riverfront, he said. The size of our city  the residents have to go to Portland to launch a boat. That does not make any sense  never has.

Cassandra Day / Hearst Connecticut Media

Participants separated into virtual breakout sessions to gauge what is most important to them.

Several had concerns about increased traffic and the need for more parking, a long-time issue in Middletown, while others discussed keeping green space green, a balance in multi-uses of the area, easier access to the river, and the problems caused by Route 9 disconnecting the city to its riverfront, according to the video.

Since the meeting took place, the city opened an interactive storefront in Main Street Market, at 386 Main St., so visitors can participate in planning initiatives.

These include taking a detailed survey of residents values and ideas about how they would like to see the riverfront developed, and what is best about the city, as well as suggestions of what they think Middletown needs, according to a press release from the mayors office.

Mayor Ben Florsheim / Contributed photo

The storefront, located next to Perk on Main, is open weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For information, visit middletownct.gov. Questions can also be emailed to Riverbend@Middletownct.gov. To view the forum video, go to youtube.com.
BRIDGEPORT  Rev. Kenneth Moales has until Jan. 7 to vacate his Union Avenue cathedral and other East End properties.

A federal judge ruled Monday that Moales, pastor of the Prayer Tabernacle Church of Love and Cathedral of the Holy Spirit, has run out of time on his request to remain in the church while he appeals its foreclosure by his bank, Foundation Capital Resources.

I conclude that Prayer Tabernacle has not established grounds to warrant a stay pending appeal. It does not have a likelihood of success and probably lacks standing even to maintain the claims it proposes to advance on appeal, said U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Meyer.

Moales had requested a stay of Meyers previous foreclosure order while he appealed it to the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals.

An appeal to the Second Circuit ordinarily takes at least a year and often more time than that to be decided, Meyer stated. In my view, the church has not satisfied the well-established legal and equitable requirements that govern whether to grant a stay for the entire duration of an appeal.

We would prefer not to comment given that the litigation is pending, said Moales lawyer, James Lenes.

Moales, a former chairman of the citys Board of Education, is senior pastor of Prayer Tabernacle Church of Love, Cathedral of the Holy Spirit and chief executive of CREAM Enterprises, a construction and management company. Through his church he owns five parcels of land in the East End.

In September 2017, according to court documents, after a more than four-year legal battle that initially began in state court, Meyer issued a foreclosure order against Moales for failure to pay a debt of $12,630,230. That amount has since increased to more than $15 million.

Following numerous court hearings, the judge on May 29, 2020, ordered the eviction of the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit on Union Avenue along with the Kingdoms Little Ones daycare, a summer camp, a private school, Love Christian Academy, all at the Union Avenue address and other operations owned by Moales on Stratford Avenue.

Moales subsequently filed for bankruptcy to block the foreclosure but federal bankruptcy court dismissed the case and allowed the foreclosure to proceed.

At a subsequent hearing before the judge Moales accused Foundation Capital of engaging in fraud and predatory lending practices. The company has denied the accusations.

However, in his ruling Monday, the judge reiterated that he had evaluated Moales testimony in great detail and concluded that it was not credible or supported by the testimony of other witnesses or the whole of the documentary evidence record presented at trial.

Meyers continued that Foundation Capital would be substantially harmed if its ability to take possession of the properties at issue were delayed for the year or more that an appeal is likely to last. He stated that Moales on behalf of his church properties has not made a mortgage payment since 2013 nor has he paid property taxes or utilities for several years.

Moales could not be reached for comment.

The 49-year-old Moales was recently arrested and charged with writing a bad check. According to the warrant affidavit, on July 22, Moales wrote a check to Testos Restaurant for $2,821.40 to cover expenses for catering services. The check was subsequently returned for insufficient funds.

Moales is also being sued in state and federal court for eviction from a house on Northwood Drive in Easton where the suits claim he has been living and failing to pay rent since July 2019.
HARTFORD, Conn. (AP)  A man who police say is a person of interest in a Hartford homicide opened fire into the driver's side window of a city police cruiser early Tuesday and narrowly missed the officer inside, authorities said.

The officer, who has not been named, was patrolling the citys North End at about 1:30 a.m. when the man approached her cruiser, authorities said. As they were talking, the man pulled a gun and shot at her, police said.
Just two reporters were allowed inside a Georgia courtroom to serve as the eyes and ears of the public when jury selection began for the men charged with murdering Ahmaud Arbery. Pandemic restrictions also kept reporters and the public out of the courtroom during the sex-trafficking trial of music star R. Kelly.

And in an Ohio courtroom, a federal judge relegated the press to an overflow room to listen to an audio feed for the trial of a Chinese national charged with trying to steal trade secrets from U.S. companies.

A year-and-a-half into the coronavirus pandemic, courts across the U.S. are still grappling with how to balance public health concerns with the constitutional rights of a defendant and the public to have an open trial. There's no standard solution. Some courts are still functioning entirely virtually. Others are back in person. And many are allowing only limited public access.

This is a fundamental constitutional right that the public has  to have open courts and to be able to see whats happening in real time in a courtroom, said David Snyder, executive director of the First Amendment Coalition, which has prodded California courts to improve public access during the pandemic.

COVID-19 space constraints have led judges across the U.S. to exclude or limit public and media attendance at trials.

During Kelly's trial, which concluded last month with his conviction, a federal judge in New York barred the press and public from the courtroom because jurors were sitting six feet apart in the gallery normally used by observers. Onlookers could watch a live video feed in an overflow courtroom, but it offered no view of the jury and only limited images of the defendant, witnesses and exhibits. At one point, prosecutors played a recording that jurors listened to with headphones, with no audio available for the press and public.

The judge rejected a request by media groups, including The Associated Press, to allow pool reporters in the courtroom for much of the trial, letting six reporters in only when the verdict was announced.

A similar scenario played out last week in Ohio, where a federal judge cited the pandemic while keeping the public out of the courtroom for the trial of Yanjun Xu, a Chinese official accused of trying of steal trade secrets from U.S. aviation and aerospace companies. There was no public access to jury selection. Audio of the trial was played for media in a conference room.

Overflow rooms are better than nothing but often leave observers unable to see the full context of what's occurring, like the reaction of jurors as evidence is presented, said New York attorney Rachel Strom, who represented media in the R. Kelly case.

"We dont know what we missed by not having someone actually in the courtroom, Strom said.

After the AP and other media filed legal motions, a Georgia judge granted just two media pool seats in the courtroom right before the start of jury selection in the trial of three white men charged with chasing and killing Arbery. Graphic cellphone video of the 25-year-old Black man being shot sparked outrage nationally last year, and the trial is being closely watched as a referendum on how the legal system treats Black victims. The judge has since allowed a third reporter and a photographer into the courtroom.

In another high-profile case, the press and public initially were allowed to listen remotely to court proceedings as pop star Britney Spears sought to end her father's conservatorship over her finances. But Los Angeles County Superior Court canceled the remote access after someone recorded a hearing, and the court refused to reinstate it for a September hearing when Spears was freed from her father's oversight. The court instead allowed more people into the courtroom.

USA Today recently asked the California Supreme Court to order the restoration of remote audio for the public and media.

No one should have to risk their health to exercise their constitutional right of access by travelling to, and attending, court in person, USA Today said in its court filing. It also suggested the remote audio program should continue even when the pandemic ends.

The California request highlights how the pandemic has shifted expectations about what qualifies as public access.

As courts open back up, they should strongly consider keeping some amount of remote access available to the public, said Lin Weeks, an attorney at the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press.

Many courts now are routinely using video conferencing in civil lawsuits, for bail proceedings in criminal cases and for family law disputes such as child-custody and divorce cases. Some also are using video conferencing to select jurors or to conduct entire jury trials.

Court officials say the virtual proceedings have saved time and money for attorneys, jurors, litigants and defendants, who no longer have to travel to a courthouse, take extensive time off work or arrange child care. Courts also have seen fewer no-shows among those summoned to virtual jury pools and, as a result, greater diversity on juries.

It has been a lifeline as weve tried to keep the justice system moving during the pandemic, but its also been transformational, said Sean ODonnell, a superior court judge in King County, Washington, home of Seattle.

King County judges have conducted about 700 online trials, including about 50 with jurors. During a trial that ODonnell presided over last week, the judge, attorneys, witness and jurors appeared on a 20-tile Zoom screen that the public could view on YouTube. Two jurors sat in clothes closets. One participated from his vehicle. Another was chided by ODonnell to remove his cat from the camera view. A witness testified from Oregon, a couple hundred miles away.

Despite those oddities, the virtual trial progressed much like a regular trial, with attorneys taking turns questioning witnesses and evidentiary documents displayed on the screen for all to see. There even were periodic breaks where participants stood up and stretched.

Conducting the trial virtually also freed up space at the courthouse. To accommodate social distancing, in-person trials are using as many as three separate courtrooms  one for the actual trial, a second for the public to view it remotely and a third for the jury to use during breaks and deliberations, ODonnell said.

Across Hawaii's chain of islands, the ability to observe courts virtually has increased public access during the pandemic.

John Burnett, a reporter for the Hawaii Tribune-Herald, wasn't able to cover state Supreme Court or U.S. District Court proceedings before the pandemic because it required a 50-minute plane ride from Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, where his newspaper is based, to Honolulu on the island of Oahu. Now he regularly listens by phone to federal court cases and watches state Supreme Court arguments on YouTube.

I think they should become permanent things because lets face it, were talking about public information here, Burnett said. If we cant get our boots on the actual ground, at least if we can have virtual ground  thats as good of a substitute as we could possibly hope for.

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David A. Lieb reported from Jefferson City, Missouri. Associated Press writers Russ Bynum in Brunswick, Georgia, Tom Hays in New York and Jennifer Kelleher in Honolulu contributed to this report.
ALBANY, N.Y. (AP)  Former Weather Underground radical David Gilbert has been granted parole after 40 years behind bars for his role in a deadly 1981 Brinks robbery that was a violent echo of left-wing extremism born in the 1960s, the state corrections department said Tuesday.

Gilbert, 76, has been imprisoned since shortly after the infamously botched armored car robbery in which a guard and two police officers were killed. He became eligible for parole only after his 75 years-to-life sentence was shortened by Gov. Andrew Cuomo in August, hours before he left office.

Gilbert appeared before the state parole board Oct. 19 and was subsequently granted parole, Thomas Mailey, a spokesperson for the New York state corrections department, said Tuesday.

He will be able to leave Shawangunk Correctional Facility in the Hudson Valley next month.

Supporters  including his son, San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin  lobbied to have Gilbert join other defendants in the case who have been released from prison.

In an email, Boudin said, I am so grateful to the parole board and to everyone who has supported my father during his more than 40 years in prison. Im thinking about the other children affected by this crime and want to make sure that nothing I do or say further upsets the victims families. Their loved ones will never be forgotten."

But even the prospect of Gilbert's release had angered some local officials in the Hudson Valley and family members who said his release would insult the memory of the slain men.

In a statement, Rockland County Executive Ed Day called the decision a cruel and unjust slap in the face to the families of those killed.

Former Governor Andrew Cuomo and the Parole Board should be ashamed for allowing this domestic terrorist to walk free on our streets, Day said. Theres no reason that David Gilbert should not have to face the full consequences of his heinous crimes, no matter how much time has passed.

Gilbert and other former members of the Weather Underground, a militant group that grew out of the anti-Vietnam War movement, had joined with members of the Black Liberation Army in the Oct. 20, 1981, robbery. They stole $1.6 million in cash from an armored car outside the Nanuet Mall near the Hudson River community of Nyack.

Brinks guard Peter Paige and two Nyack police officers, Sgt. Edward OGrady and Officer Waverly Brown, were killed in the holdup and ensuing shootout at a nearby roadblock.

Though unarmed, Gilbert was charged with robbery and murder, since people were killed during the crime. Also charged was Chesa Boudins mother, Kathy Boudin. The boy was 14 months old when his parents were imprisoned.

In a sometimes raucous trial, Gilbert and two other defendants cast themselves as freedom fighters and deemed the proceedings illegitimate. At one court session, Gilbert and defendant Judith Clark raised their fists and shouted Free the land!

Kathy Boudin avoided a harsher sentence by pleading guilty and was paroled in 2003. Clark was granted parole in 2019, three years after Cuomo commuted her sentence. She had been denied parole after her first hearing two years earlier.

Gilbert was not eligible for parole until 2056 before Cuomo commuted his sentence. The former governor said Gilbert made significant contributions to AIDS education and prevention programs, and worked as a tutor, law library clerk, paralegal assistant, teachers aide and aide in various prison programs.

Chesa Boudin was raised by his parents Weather Underground compatriots, Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn.

He ran a progressive campaign for San Francisco district attorney in 2019 in which he said visiting his parents in prison showed him the criminal justice system was broken.

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Matthews reported from New York City.
The Afghanistan branch of the Islamic State group, or ISIS-K, might be capable of launching international attacks in six to 12 months, a top Pentagon official told the Senate Armed Services Committee on Tuesday.

Colin Kahl, the under secretary of defense for policy, also reiterated U.S. officials' assessment that another group, al-Qaida, might regain the ability to launch attacks outside of Afghanistan in one to two years.

"We have considerable evidence that they have the intent; the question at the moment is the capability," Kahl added of al-Qaida and ISIS-K's desire to conduct attacks outside of Afghanistan.

Testifying alongside Kahl, Lt. Gen. James Mingus, director of operations for the Joint Staff, stressed that the intelligence assessments are "based on no U.S. or coalition intervention."

"The goal would be to keep those time horizons where they're at now, if not even further," Mingus added.

Under President Joe Biden's order, U.S. forces fully withdrew from Afghanistan at the end of August, ending a 20-year presence there.

Biden administration officials have said the military can keep terrorist threats in check by using so-called "over-the-horizon" forces, or troops and weapons based outside Afghanistan.

But unlike other countries where the American military conducts over-the-horizon operations, Afghanistan is landlocked and the United States does not have basing agreements with any neighboring nations.

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Barring basing agreements being reached, that means any strikes will have to rely on military hardware based in the Persian Gulf region. That poses more difficulties than being in a neighboring country since aircraft have to fly further and thus can't stay over Afghanistan as long, the Pentagon has said.

On Tuesday, Kahl confirmed U.S. officials have had "extensive conversations" with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan on basing agreements, but said no deals have been reached.

The administration has "some very specific ideas" on how to win those countries' support for housing U.S. troops, Kahl said, but he declined to give specifics during the open session since the issue is "very sensitive." The committee held a classified session with Kahl and Mingus immediately after the open hearing.

The administration also has had conversations with Pakistan about using its airspace, Kahl said.

Right now, ISIS-K is mainly focused on "creating havoc" inside of Afghanistan, Kahl explained. The terrorist group has claimed responsibility for a number of high-profile attacks within Afghanistan in recent months, including August's Kabul airport bombing that killed 13 U.S. troops during the military's evacuation operations.

But, Kahl warned that there are some members of the group who "would love to conduct external attacks."

The Taliban and ISIS-K are sworn enemies, competing for territory and fighters, but U.S. officials have questioned the Taliban's ability to effectively contain the threat from ISIS.

Meanwhile, the Taliban has maintained close ties with al-Qaida, particularly the Haqqani network, despite agreeing in February 2020 to cut ties with the terrorist group as a condition of the U.S. withdrawal, U.S. and U.N. officials have said.

"We have seen signs ... that the Taliban is wary of Afghanistan being a springboard for al-Qaida external attacks," Kahl said, deferring further details on what those signs are to the classified session. "Not because the Taliban are good guys, but because they fear international retribution if that were to occur."

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @reporterkheel.

Related: Our Next War in Afghanistan Is Already Looming. And It May Be Even Harder.
A decorated World War II veteran who rubbed elbows with world leaders and royalty on the way to becoming one of the most respected figures in the global thoroughbred horse industry celebrates his 100th birthday Tuesday.

But for James E. "Ted" Bassett III, the "most meaningful phase" of the past century was not the one in which he ascended to the pinnacle of achievement in business. It was his service as a U.S. Marine.

"It completely changed me, my outlook, attitude and will to succeed," Bassett told Stars and Stripes. "I shall forever be grateful to the Corps for providing me the opportunity to serve."

Bassett was born in Lexington, Ky., on Oct. 26, 1921. He graduated from Yale in the early 1940s, and shortly thereafter he deployed to the Pacific as an infantry officer in the 4th Marine Regiment, 6th Marine Division, where he led a rifle platoon during the Battle of Okinawa.

He was wounded twice but recovered in time to participate in allied forces' initial landing on Japan. He later received the Purple Heart and the Presidential Unit Citation.

Bassett has often attributed the success of his later civilian endeavors to his early military training and combat responsibilities. One of his first civilian posts was director of the Kentucky State Police from 1964 to 1967, at the height of the Civil Rights era.

His efforts at restructuring the force and building trust in the community caught the attention of John Y. Brown, a future Kentucky governor who then owned the fast-food chain Kentucky Fried Chicken.

"I admired what I had heard about him and interviewed him to see if he would be interested to become the president of Kentucky Fried Chicken," Brown said in an interview.

Brown still jokes that Bassett made the wrong decision when he turned down his lucrative offer for a job at a racetrack that paid considerably less.

The job Bassett chose was at Keeneland, an internationally renowned racecourse in Lexington and the thoroughbred industry's leading auction house.

Bassett would go on to serve as president, chairman of the board and trustee at Keeneland over the years, and much of the venue's success has been linked to his leadership, particularly his ability to forge relationships.

"He has got the best human touch of anybody I've ever been around," said Jim Host, whose friendship with Bassett goes back to the late 1960s. "He has no ego. He's the kind of person who can sit comfortably with Queen Elizabeth, or he can be just as comfortable sitting with the cooks, waitresses and waiters in the track kitchen."

Bassett did, in fact, sit with Queen Elizabeth II when she made her first visit to an American track at Keeneland in 1984. She was one of many high-profile visitors Bassett helped attract to the venue. Some years later, the royal family of Dubai made the first ever $10 million bid for a horse there.

Bassett was also a key architect of the Breeders' Cup, an annual series of horse races that began in 1984. In addition, he served as president of the Thoroughbred Racing Association and the Thoroughbred Club of America, cementing his legacy in the horse racing industry.

People still visit Bassett regularly for advice and wisdom; one relative likened these sessions to "an audience with the pope."

Many of the lessons he shares were learned during his time as a Marine, former Lexington Mayor Jim Gray said.

"Ted Bassett is still a shining example of that mission, of the character that it took to carry us through that period and really until today," Gray said.

Those closest to Bassett say his philanthropic legacy in central Kentucky is just as strong as his reputation in the racing world. Bassett has used Keeneland's success to support local charities.

He's also built links between the racecourse and the local Black community.

"There have been numerous things that he's done in a quiet manner but very efficient manner to help bridge the gap between African Americans and the traditionally white horse racing community," Host said.

Bassett has no children, and his wife, Lucy, died in 2016 after more than six decades of marriage.

Holly Wiedemann, Bassett's goddaughter, said he nixed plans for a grandiose party because he considered it inappropriate to celebrate his longevity when so many others are dying of COVID-19.

"I think that speaks volumes to his character," Wiedemann said. "Those who know him will tell you that there is another day of the year more important to him than his birthday: Nov. 10, the Marines' birthday, which he regularly hosts parties for."

On that day in 2007, Bassett was presented with the Navy's Superior Public Service Award, the second-highest civilian honor given by the branch. It recognizes significant contributions by a civilian to the Navy, Marine Corps or entire Department of the Navy.

"Mr. Bassett's selfless patriotism and dedication reflect great credit upon himself and are in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service," his award citation said. "Throughout his distinguished career as a Marine and as a private citizen, Mr. Bassett continues to epitomize 'once a Marine, always a Marine.' "
WASHINGTON -- Nearly 6,700 Afghan evacuees have resettled throughout the United States and about 53,150 remain at stateside military bases awaiting visa processing nearly two months after American troops left Afghanistan, chief Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Monday.

The military has been housing Afghan evacuees at eight installations in the U.S. since late July when evacuations began in the final weeks of the U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, which ended Aug. 30. The bases have a collective capacity of 64,000, Kirby said.

About 4,100 of the 6,689 Afghans have resettled since Sept. 30, when the Pentagon last gave an update on the mission dubbed Operation Allies Welcome.

Approximately 3,000 Afghans remain on U.S. military bases in the Middle East and another 463 are at U.S. bases in Europe, Kirby told reporters at the Pentagon. Those evacuees are undergoing security screenings before they are taken to the U.S. to wait out their visa process.

Those numbers show some improvement from the Sept. 30 update when about 14,000 evacuees remained at overseas staging bases awaiting flights to the U.S. The flights were halted in early September due to a measles outbreak.

After the outbreak, the military vaccinated all evacuees against measles. Medical workers also have been administering coronavirus and influenza vaccinations to the Afghans.

The federal government is expected to reimburse the Defense Department for expenses incurred while housing the evacuees at military installations. The Pentagon is still awaiting that reimbursement, but Kirby said the financial costs have not affected military readiness.

"But clearly there are assets -- resources, time -- that are being devoted to this that are in some cases not being diverted to other things," he said.

The Defense Department provides food, housing, medical assistance and recreational opportunities for Afghans at the installations.

The bases in the U.S. hosting Afghans are Fort Bliss in Texas, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey, Fort McCoy in Wisconsin, Camp Atterbury in Indiana, Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico, and Fort Lee, Fort Pickett and Marine Corps Base Quantico in Virginia.
A bipartisan group of senators is criticizing the Pentagon's "lax" timeline for implementing reforms meant to combat military sexual assault, telling the agency it needs to hurry up.

Last month, the Defense Department laid out a timeline that could see some reforms take at least nine years to come to fruition.

Instead, eight senators want reforms to happen in six months, they wrote in a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin on Tuesday.

"Ensuring the safety of all who serve and delivering justice for victims of sexual violence are not problems that can wait to be resolved on the Department of Defense's proposed timeline," the senators wrote in the letter. "The men and women who serve in our military cannot continue to operate another day, let alone another decade, under a chain of command that is unwilling or incapable of taking decisive action to address this epidemic."

The letter was organized by Sens. Joni Ernst and Chuck Grassley, both Republicans of Iowa, and Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.

It was co-signed by Sens. Mike Braun, R-Ind.; Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.; Richard Blumenthal, D-Conn.; Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif.; and Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

All eight are co-sponsors of a separate proposal working its way through the Senate that would require the Pentagon to make broad military justice reforms on a six-month timeline.

Read Next: ISIS in Afghanistan Might Be Able to Launch International Attacks Within a Year, Pentagon Official Warns

Earlier this year, Austin created an independent commission to study new ways to tackle the pervasive issue of sexual assault in the military. Among the commission's recommendations was removing the decision to prosecute sexual assault and harassment, domestic violence and other related crimes from the chain of command.

Austin endorsed the commission's findings in July, and released a multi-step implementation plan in September.

The first group of reforms included creating offices of special victims prosecutors, a process that the Pentagon estimated would take six years to complete throughout the Guard and Reserves, while some of the reforms could take until at least 2030.

But Congress could force the Pentagon to move faster.

The Senate's version of the annual defense policy bill includes a provision, long championed by Gillibrand, that would move the decision to prosecute all serious crimes, including sexual assault, outside the chain of command within six months. In addition to going faster than the Pentagon would like, the provision is broader than it wants since it affects all serious crimes.

The defense bill, known as the National Defense Authorization Act, also contains a separate provision that would establish offices of special victims prosecutors for sexual assault and related crimes in each military department within two years.

The bill still must pass the Senate and be reconciled with the House's version before receiving President Joe Biden's signature and becoming law. The House-passed version of the NDAA would create special victims prosecutors offices in each of the military departments.

In their letter to Austin, the senators asked for a briefing by the end of November on how the Pentagon can move the decision to prosecute sexual assault and other serious crimes outside the chain of command in no more than six months.

They also want answers on how the department can, in six months, bolster the physical security of lodging and living spaces at military installations and improve training and education on military sexual assault throughout the force.

"For nearly a decade, the United States Senate has voiced its displeasure with and intent to reform the military's handling of sexual misconduct among the armed forces," the senators wrote. "We will not accept an additional 6 to 9 years of waiting for these necessary changes to be implemented."

-- Rebecca Kheel can be reached at rebecca.kheel@military.com. Follow her on Twitter @reporterkheel.

Related: Congress Faces Decision on Military Justice Overhaul
The number of civilian workers compared to military service members is the highest in the history of the Pentagon, and that's unsustainable, according to Rep. Ken Calvert of California, the top Republican on a key defense panel.

But the Pentagon begs to differ. Top personnel officials rebutted Calvert during testimony at a House hearing Tuesday and defended the department's 790,000 civilians as key to the defense of the country.

Calvert, the ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee's defense panel, said the Pentagon should reduce the number of civilians by automating a raft of jobs and responsibilities, similar to what's happened in private manufacturing and shipping across the country.

"I don't see how we can afford to maintain the current civilian workforce into the future if we're forced to balance those costs with procurement and research efforts, which are absolutely necessary," he said.

Read Next: More Ink on Heads, Fingers Allowed in Updated Coast Guard Tattoo Policy

The House Appropriations panel was hearing Pentagon testimony on the defense workforce and considering ways the department could use funding to shore up training, recruitment and retention of troops, as well as how to sustain the defense industrial base.

Artificial intelligence could be used to eliminate human civilian jobs in military health care management, intelligence analysis, financial management, and supply chain logistics, Calvert said.

The changes could "save a lot of money -- billions of dollars -- and gradually, not having to fire anybody, but just gradually bringing down the workforce and closing obsolete systems and processes," he said.

Calvert didnt provide details on his savings estimate, which could potentially come from an annual defense budget of over $700 billion.

Gil Cisneros, the under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness, told Calvert it is "just not proper" to direct cuts to the civilian workforce based on an arbitrary comparison to service members.

"I do not believe we can put a ratio or a number on the amount of civilians that we have," said Cisneros, who served as a Navy officer and lawmaker who sat on the House Armed Services Committee. "The civilian workforce that we have at the Department of Defense is an integral part in the defense of our nation. They play critical roles in the work that we do."

The Department of the Navy is always assessing its workforce to get the right mix, but the metric it's focused on is not the ratio of troops to civilians but whether the services can compete on the battlefield, said Meredith Berger, the senior official performing the duties of Navy under secretary.

"We capitalize Sailors, Marines, Civilians, and it is because of their contribution," Berger said.

The Army, the largest of the service branches, has a 4:1 ratio of soldiers to civilians, and that number has been relatively unchanged for the past five years, said Christopher Lowman, senior official performing the duties of Army under secretary.

The service plans to study how new technologies such as artificial intelligence could affect the civilian workforce. The Air Force is not currently incentivizing civilian retirements but plans to study whether it could be needed in some areas -- it's more focused on recruiting and keeping personnel with high-tech skills, said Gina Ortiz Jones, the under secretary of the Air Force.

Calvert said the Defense Department and military branches are among the largest enterprises in the world and should not be immune to the larger trends in the U.S. of companies streamlining workforces.

No one should argue that civilians are not important, but also no one believes they should outnumber troops, he said.

"But it's growing in that direction," he added. "It seems like there's always a reason not to look, especially at the middle-management structure within the Department of Defense."

-- Travis Tritten can be reached at travis.tritten@military.com. Follow him on Twitter @Travis_Tritten.

Related: Pentagon Mandates COVID-19 Vaccine for Civilian Workers
The cool winds of fall remind me that it's time to dig into my personal finance bag of tricks and treats to help you steer clear of scary money problems.

Tricks

Fraud, pandemic style. Costume parties aren't the only places where alternate identities lurk. Crooks disguised as you can steal your identity and open new accounts in your name before you can say, "Boo!" According to TransUnion's Global Consumer Pulse Study, one in three consumers across the globe has been targeted by digital fraud since the pandemic began.

How can you protect yourself?

Check your credit report at least quarterly.

Safeguard your personal data, usernames and passwords by shredding or safely storing the information.

Avoid using public WiFi to access online accounts or sites.

Monitor your accounts vigilantly.

While you probably don't check your long-term investments daily, you may need to adopt a vigilant approach with your bank and credit accounts. If you see any discrepancies, notify your financial institution.

Credit-card debt. Americans are back to ringing up credit-card debt. Earlier in the pandemic, revolving debt had been on the decline, but this summer, the Federal Reserve reported a 6.7% increase of this type of debt over the same time last year. And at $956 billion, revolving debt appears to be on the way back to the $1 trillion mark hit in 2017. Don't fall into this dangerous trap. Develop a plan to knock out your debt and get help if you need it.

Car loans. After encountering a dozen or so ghosts and ghouls on Halloween, you can become numb to the spectacle. That's how I feel about the length of car loans. They seem to keep getting longer. Experian's State of the Automotive Finance Market (Q2, 2021) put the average new-car loan length at just over 69 months -- almost six years. If you can't afford the car you want with a loan of 60 months or less, look for a more affordable option.

Treats

Wages are growing. This is like reaching into your goody bag -- especially as we rebound from the pandemic -- and finding all your favorite treats. In July, the Atlanta Federal Reserve's Wage Growth Tracker put wage growth for people ages 16-24 at a year-over-year clip of 8.3%; for ages 25-54, it was 3.7%. While a bigger salary can mean a better lifestyle, it also can help you pay down debt, build savings and invest for the future.

Savings rate nears 10%. Americans saved 9.6% of their disposable income in July, according to a report from the Bureau of Economic Analysis. That's significantly lower than some of the sky-high savings numbers we saw last year, but still in line with the 10% USAA recommends folks sock away for retirement early in their careers. I still think this belongs in the "treat" category. Under the military's Blended Retirement System, participants will need to put at least 5% into the Thrift Savings Plan to receive the maximum government contribution. So, while 5% shouldn't be your goal, it should be the minimum if you're part of the BRS.

Credit scores on the rise. In its 2021 State of Credit, Experian reported that the average VantageScore increased to 695, the highest point in 13 years.

According to nerdwallet.com, that is on the low end of what is generally considered a good credit score by most lenders.

This is a good trend though, despite the challenges of the pandemic. But don't let it lull you into a false sense of security. Just because you can borrow doesn't mean you should. After carefully reviewing your finances, make borrowing decisions in the context of what you know makes sense -- not what some financial institution offers.

Get the Latest Financial Tips

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National Stock Exchange (NSE) s registered investor base has surpassed 50 million unique investors. While the journey from 30 million registered investors to 40 million registered investors took about 15 months, the subsequent 10 million investor registrations took less than seven months, the Exchange says in a release.

We have come a long way over the past decade. Just 10-12 years ago, Indias vanishing investor base was a matter of concern. According to the D Swarup Committee report of 2009, of the 188 million Indians holding financial assets, only 8 million investors participate in debt and equity markets, either directly or indirectly through complex and risk-bearing products like mutual funds and market-linked insurance plans. So, Indias investor population, pegged at 21 million in 2000-01 according to a study by the National Council for Applied Economic Research (NCAER), was down to nearly a third by the end of the decade at that time.

Read: Investor Population: Vanishing Investors ) This explains the rapid growth in investor accounts at NSE. However, with shrinking returns on bank term deposits, investors now want to invest at least a part of their money directly in stock markets. (This explains the rapid growth in investor accounts at NSE.

As of 25 October 2021, the total number of client codes registered with the Exchange stands at 88.6 million (clients could register with more than one trading member). Demat accounts in India held with the two depositories, National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL) and the Central Depository Services India Ltd (CDSL) together are at around 70.2 million, including multiple demat accounts held by a single investor with a unique permanent account number (PAN). An investor can have more than one demat account or a trading account with different depository participants and trading members linked to a single PAN.

Vikram Limaye, managing director (MD) and chief executive (CEO) of NSE, says, The milestone achieved today is the culmination of efforts put in by the government, the regulators, and all stakeholders to provide a bouquet of products, simplified client onboarding processes, investor education and awareness. I am sure with the focused efforts of all stakeholders; we should be looking at increasing penetration further and touching the 10 crore unique investors mark over the next three-four years.

According to NSE, the journey from 40 million unique investors to 50 million unique investors took about 203 days. North Indian states contributed to 36% of new investor registrations, followed by Western India with 31%, Southern India states and Eastern India states accounting for 20% and 13% of new investor registrations, respectively, it says.

Maharashtra contributed 17% at the state level, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10% and Gujarat with 7% new investor registrations. The top-10 states accounted for 71% of new investor registrations.

According to NSE, the growth in investor registrations has primarily been driven from non-metro cities. The cities beyond the top 50 cities accounted for 57% of new investor registrations, while the cities beyond the top 100 cities contributed to 43%, indicating that the growing interest in the equity markets is not restricted to the metros and a few tier-1 cities, it says.
It is common knowledge that the restaurant sector was severely impacted by the first and second lockdowns triggered by the Covid-19 pandemic, but now the National Restaurant Association of India (NRAI), the trade body that represents the industry, has put numbers to the story.

It has also underlined the biggest positive to emerge out of the pandemic  the food delivery business has been moving northward, and how! The restaurant industry has also recovered a significant percentage of its pre-Covid business, but its combined revenues are still significantly below the record pre-Covid levels.

A comprehensive NRAI report released here on Monday evening states that 32 per cent of the staff employed by the organised sector of the industry  that is, 23 lakh restaurant workers out of the total workforce of 75 lakh  have lost their jobs. The report does not of course cover the job losses suffered by street food vendors and dhaba workers.

This loss of employment was mainly because of restaurants closing down permanently  one out of four restaurants in the country shut shop between the two pandemics. What the report does not record, however, is the number of people who were temporarily unemployed for months or were paid only a fraction of their wages and salaries.

The organised sector contracted severely during FY2021 (April 1, 2020, to March 31, 2021), its estimated total turnover shrinking from the projected Rs 4.95 lakh crore to a little above Rs 2 lakh crore.

It has recovered considerable ground during FY2022 (April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022), but its earnings are still less than the projections made for the financial year in 2019 (when the industry was rocking). The sector is expected to notch up a combined revenue of Rs 4.72 lakh crore in FY2022, but it will be still less than the projected Rs 5.46 lakh crore.

Restaurant revenues, on average, according to Nitin Saluja, founder of Chaayos and a member of the NRAI managing committee, are still at 72 per cent of their pre-Covid levels. As a result of the severe drop in business during the pandemic, the sector's GST contribution also slipped from Rs 17,916 crore in FY2020 to Rs 8,482 crore in FY2021.

On the brighter side, "the new normal of ordering-in" has seen the revenue share of the food delivery business, facilitated by online platforms such as Zomato and Swiggy, go up from 10 per cent (pre-Covid) to 33 per cent (post-second lockdown), although the average value per dine-in order continues to be below the pre-Covid level. It was Rs 398 in FY2021, compared with Rs 436 in FY2018. Along with the two lockdowns, the culture of dining in has well and truly taken off.

The share of restaurants in the emerging in food service market may have consequently dropped to 67 per cent, but owners are not complaining, for they are reaching out to new customers via the delivery route.

Although the severest lockdown restrictions have been lifted, with Maharashtra being the last state to do so, post the second lockdown, restaurants still operate for an average of 10 hours a days, compared with 13 hours before the pandemic struck. Pubs, bars and lounges have also been badly hit because of social distancing rules. These multiple factors have impacted the sector's overall revenues.

The good news, as Riyaaz Amlani, founder of Impresario Restaurants and a former NRAI president, pointed out, is that diners are returning to restaurants as they get double vaccinated  and so do restaurant employees  and overcome the fear, which was evident immediately after the second wave of the pandemic, of having meals in closed environments.

The return of diners may be the reason why the report is bullish about the years ahead, predicting that the organised sector will achieve a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8 per cent to crank up a total turnover of Rs 6.21 lakh crore in FY2025.

The other good news for the organised sector is that for the first time in the history of the industry, the share of the unorganised market has dropped below 50 per cent  it is pegged at 46.3 per cent, compared with the organised sector's 53.7 per cent, of which the standalone restaurants account for 35.3 per cent, chain restaurants, 16 per cent, and restaurants in hotels, a minuscule 2.4 per cent.

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
The Supreme Court (SC) on Monday was told that the State Bank of India (SBI) and the UCO Bank have agreed to invest Rs450 crore in Amrapali projects, but other banks, who were part of a consortium, are delaying the process.

Senior advocate and Court-appointed receiver R Venkataramani submitted before a bench headed by Justice UU Lalit that six banks have agreed in principle, but things have not moved in the desired direction for nearly two months. He added that, in order to accelerate the process, a little nudge from the top court was needed.

On 3rd September, the receiver had told the Supreme Court that he had held meetings with the officials of a consortium of six banksthe SBI, UCO Bank, Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank, and Punjab & Sindh Bank.

The receiver informed the top court that except SBI and UCO Bank, none of the remaining four banks had come out with any concrete proposal on funding the Amrapali projects. He emphasised that the proposal has not been finalised.

The top court then asked the banks to decide within two weeks and file the proposal before it.

During the hearing, the top court noted that if banks were to further deliberate on the issue, then an officer of MD (managing director) level should convene a meeting with the receiver to develop a concrete proposal.

The receiver informed the bench, also comprising justice Ajay Rastogi, that 300 flats would be handed over to flat purchasers by the year-end in Greater Noida, and flat purchasers will get possession letters on the eve of Diwali. He further added these are over and above 2,300 flats, which would be handed over to flat purchasers in Noida as committed by NBCC.

Kumar Mihir, advocate representing some home-buyers, said it is a welcome step that SBI and UCO Bank have agreed in principle to invest Rs450 crore in the construction of Amrapali projects and, hopefully, other banks will also follow their steps.

The Supreme Court also issued notice to the Uttar Pradesh government seeking clarification on stamp duty being charged from Amrapali flat purchasers at the time of registry.

The receiver, last month, had informed the top court that the consortium had agreed to fund the stalled Amrapali projects and bank officials had said that documentation in connection with the process will begin during the month, and disbursal of loans should be expected.

Disclaimer: Information, facts or opinions expressed in this news article are presented as sourced from IANS and do not reflect views of Moneylife and hence Moneylife is not responsible or liable for the same. As a source and news provider, IANS is responsible for accuracy, completeness, suitability and validity of any information in this article.
BOISE, Idaho (AP)  The suspect in a Boise mall shooting that killed two people and injured four others has died, the Boise Police Department 
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October 26, 2021 On The Delusion In U.S. Foreign Policy And What Might Change It The current U.S. foreign policy is delusional. Its attempts to command the world are getting laughed at. How did this happen and what might change it? Here are excerpts from two smart essays which discuss the theme. Alastair Crooke asks why somehow nothing seems to be working within Joe Biden's United States. He then observes of its global policies: At the international geo-political plane, things dont seem to be working either. Team Biden says it wants a managed competition with China, but why then send Wendy Sherman (who is not noted for her diplomatic skills) to China as Bidens envoy? Why has there been this continuous chip-chipping away at the 1972 One China policy with a series of small, seemingly innocuous moves on Taiwan if Team Biden wants contained competition (what he said he wants in a recent call with President Xi), but falters, time after time, to instigate a serious relationship? Does the Team not understand that it is not containing competition, but rather playing-with-fire, through its opaque hints that the U.S. might support Taiwan independence? And then, why of all people, dispatch Victoria Nuland to Moscow, if the competition with Moscow was to be quietly balanced out as Bidens face-to-face with Putin in Geneva seemed to signal? Like Sherman, Nuland was not received at a senior level, and her Maidan arsonist reputation of course preceded her in Moscow. And why decimate Russias diplomatic representation at NATO HQ, and why have Secretary Austin talk in Georgia and Ukraine of NATOs open door? Is there some hidden logic to this, or were these envoys intentionally sent as some kind of kick-ass provocative gesture to underline whos boss (i.e. America is Back!)? This is known in Washington as capitulation diplomacy  competitors are presented with only the terms of their capitulation. If so, it didnt work. Both envoys effectively were sent packing, and Washingtons relations with these key states are degraded to near zero. The Russia-China axis have come to the conclusion that polite diplomatic discourse with Washington is like water off a ducks back. The U.S. and its European proteges simply do not hear what Moscow or Beijing says to them  so what is the point to talking to tin-eared Americans? Answer: None. Prof. Michael Brenner recently sent a longer diagnose of the U.S. political sphere to his mailing list. He sees the same foreign policy problems as Crooke does and tries to answer some of the questions Crooke is asking: The United States mounting hostility toward China should be understood in reference to the anxieties and anguish of a declining hegemon.

[...]

[T]he great American experiment itself is now obviously in jeopardy. [..] A country that held the world in awe as the land where the common man reigned does not passively accept its degeneration into a predatory oligarchy. It does not experience the degradation of public discourse to the point where candor is an endangered species and truth itself homeless. As the connection to reality loosens, disengagement approaches the point where reality ceases to have any claim of primacy over illusion. One inhabits an insular world from which other things, other persons only have meanings as players in the life drama that you have scripted. When those others resist playing those roles, they are cajoled, coerced and then punished. We literally refuse to take NO as an answer. Lets look at the tack repeatedly taken with foreign governments to discern how this dynamic works out in practice. On China. Anthony Blinken flies to Anchorage to instruct his Chinese counterpart, Foreign Minister Wang Li, that Beijing should stop doing things that the United States objects to, and instead should do as we tell them. Wangs response, in diplomatic language, is shove it! Some months later, Blinken calls Wang with the identical message  and gets the identical response. In between, Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman, flies to the PRC where she meets Foreign Ministry officials to whom she gives a familiar shopping list of American demands spelling out how we want Beijing to correct its misbehavior. Her interlocutor, in exchange, hands her a Chinese shopping list accompanied by a lecture that boils down to shove it! And so on. On Russia: The exact pattern repeats itself in meetings between Blinken and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan on the American side, and senior Kremlin officials - foremost being the formidable Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sergey Lavrov. These exchanges are punctuated by an in-person summit between Presidents Biden and Putin held in Geneva at the White Houses request. Biden's main purpose was to calm the waters he himself had churned up by encouraging Ukrainian President Zelensky to make preparations for an assault on the Donbas. Caught by surprise at the stern Russian response, he was forced to backpedal. The diplomatic retreat was covered by a rote restatement of American criticisms re. Crimea, alleged electoral interference, Syria, human rights and Navalny (the born-again democrat who first made his mark as a rabid Muslim-phobic rabble-rouser). As per usual, Putin coolly refuted all the charges, noted some of Russia's own complaints, and make a concrete proposal to open a round of talks on strategic nuclear arms. Washington has shown no interest in the last. So, the two men parted ways. Product? Zero. As a final tragic-comic twist, Biden subsequently sends Victoria Nuland to Moscow  yes, the same Nuland declared persona non grata by Russia for her role as provocateur in the Ukrainian coup and notorious vilifier of Putin and the Kremlin. Her rancorous visitation pretty much slammed shut the window insofar as any serious dialogue between Washington and Moscow is concerned [..]. Beyond icing the new Cold War with Russia, did she succeed in the ancillary objective to scare the Kremlin away from too close an embrace of Beijing with a show-down over Taiwan in the offing? Anybody who believes that is possible never has bothered to study Vladimir Putin or to examine Russian history. Sadly, that category includes Washingtons top decision-makers. By comparison, name-calling is more fun and much less taxing on the gray cells.

[...]

The American plan to construct a cordon sanitaire around China exhibits a similar type of repetitive, unyielding behavior. Vietnam, a candidate to join the anti-China alliance, is paid visits by two high-powered American leaders. First, Secretary of Defense General Lloyd Austin flies into Hanoi to make the case for the Vietnamese to throw in their lot with the United States  the two parties familiar with each other from the last movie. Nothing doing. A while later its the turn of Vice-President Kamala Harris who punctuates her fruitless discussions with press conference remarks denouncing China and implying support for an independent Taiwan. Her hosts are not pleased. This is not normal behavior; it is pathological. It speaks of the disengagement from reality noted above. And it is exceedingly dangerous since it disregards the actual attitudes and actions of others in the relentless effort to project onto them caricatured images, simplified conceptions of who they are and how they can be manipulated suited to the crude script we authored. Information from without, and the understanding that it encourages, are filtered and excluded whenever inconvenient. Instead, it is the introverted world of self-delusion alone that sources our distorted cognitive maps. Americas political elites have fostered a phantasmagoric approach to the world as increasingly is evident. Its multiple manifestations in regard to China seem to include the unfounded belief that Beijings leaders are bluffing when they solemnly avow that moves toward Taiwan independence are intolerable, that they are prepared to go to war if necessary and expect to win any contest of arms were it to occur. While it is more likely that Washington is the one bluffing, our greatest fear should be that Biden et al actually think that they can intimidate China. That conceit conforms to mythic notions of American exceptionalism. Until now, the war-against-China imaginings have been an elite pastime. The public has been kept in the dark as three successive Presidents have inched the country closer and closer to conflict. How Americans react when they find themselves on the brink is the crucial, unknowable X factor in the equation. Alastair Crooke closes his essay with a rather hopeful view: It seems that Russia and China, seeing all this, will remain aloof and patient  waiting upon structures to crack. That crack in U.S. structures however may become a very dangerous moment for Russia and China. Professor Brenner thinks that only the threat of a potentially very violent scenario can cause the 'structural crack' that brings things the U.S. back to sanity: I fear that well need something like the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 when the U.S. and Soviet Union came to the brink of nuclear war in order to get peoples heads screwed on straight. At both the elite and popular level, it is only fear of war that, on a purely pragmatic basis, will break the comatose intellectual/political state that the United States is in. Posted by b on October 26, 2021 at 17:08 UTC | Permalink Comments next page  next page 
When it comes to accommodations in the Lone Star State, Texas has a little something for everyone, from rustic barns and re-purposed wagons to solar homes and grain silos. Below, we highlight some of the most unique and oddball vacation rentals around the state.

Want to sleep under the Texas sky and enjoy the stars? Check out a repurposed wagon that allows visitors a truly special night they surely won't forget when visiting Texas. The Barons Wagon describes itself as the The Ultimate Texas Hill Country Glamping Adventure. It sleeps up to four people, but this glamping experience isnt without amenities: it comes with wifi!

This clothing optional vacation rental is the newest addition to Tin Valley Retro Rentals and is located near Big Bend National & State Park and the Rio Grande. No need to worry about tan lines. But dont worry because its docked on its own island and far away from other properties in the area so you get lots of privacy. It has one bedroom and a kitchen. Theres a composting toilet and a shower house/flushing toilet nearby. You also get a large fire pit as well as an upper deck perfect for stargazing.

The Silo House in Laughing Llama Farm is a secluded farmhouse minutes away from Waco, Texas. The actual house is a renovated grain bin that was moved from a family farm 50 miles away to its current location. The interior of the 672-square-foot silo has a modern artistic vibe. The upstairs loft has a queen-sized bed and a queen-sized sofa sleeper while downstairs there is a full bathroom and a modern kitchen.

Its best to be a fan of four-legged creatures as this property is a working farm with llamas, sheep, goats and cows occasionally.

Located in the Chihuahuan desert near Big Bend National Park, the adobe dome house makes for a truly off-grid experience. The earthen structure runs off solar power enough for lights and charging your phone so dont expect to have air conditioning or a TV. The dome sleeps two and has a small but functional kitchen with a working fridge. For a true vacation away from it all, try out this unique rental!

A modern solar home near world-famous Marfa is a perfect retreat for artists and arts lovers alike! Featuring two bedrooms and three baths, its a perfect spot for a gathering or laid-back weekend.

Feeling royal or want to pretend to be? Enjoy a stay at this mini fortress surrounded by a wooded forest with a castle guesthouse located outside the castle walls. Inside the castle is a loft bedroom fit for royalty. Exposed wooden beams compliment the medieval-esque plaster walls. The entire property can accommodate five guests in two bedrooms and one bath. Enjoy access to the neighborhood private boat dock on Lake Livingston.

Texas is known for wide-open spaces so why not consider that for your vacation rental as well? This property known as Barndominium is nestled 16 miles from downtown Amarillo. Featuring a hot tub, game room and more, this 2,000-square-foot property promises to keep you entertained.

Country living at its finest is what youll get at this barn converted into a vacation guesthouse. This rustic rental is ideal for a romantic getaway and close by Fredericksburg, Bandera and San Antonio.
Muskogee, OK (74401)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. High 68F. Winds SSE at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low 53F. Winds SE at 5 to 10 mph.
The convictions are the result of a joint Homeland Security and Internal Revenue Service investigation with help from Myrtle Beach police. The investigation started in 2018, and Shoemake said IRS agents embedded themselves into job sites in 2019 and recorded some of transactions, leading to some of the indictments. The 12 convictions are part of a much broader investigation into the practice that is still ongoing.

When youre moving $100 million in cashed checks through a region the size of the South Carolina coast, people are going to hear about it and talk about it and then it comes to our doorstep, Shoemake said.

The defendants each face up to five years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine for conspiracy to defraud the United States government, and up to six months in prison for unlawful employment of aliens and $3,000 fine for each alien employed, the attorneys office said. The defendants have also agreed to pay restitution to the IRS, totaling close to $3 million. Theyll also be subject to three years of supervised release after their federal prison term.

This is not a victimless crime, Shoemake said. The victimizes the American taxpayers, it victimizes those honest workers who are trying to do the right thing. These workers on these job sites were working with no insurance. If one of these gentlemen or ladies fell off a ladder, theres no actual insurance. This was a pervasive scheme that was harmful on many levels.

Shoemake said he couldnt point directly to an specific case of a worker being hurt on the job without insurance, but added that there were likely hundreds upon hundreds of workers whod been caught up in the scheme. He said his office had heard anecdotes about workers with uninsured injuries, but noted that the nature of the crime incentivized silence.

If something like that happens, theyre going to keep it under wraps, Shoemake said. Everything about this incentivizes secrecy and avoidance. So if a worker gets hurt, theres no incentive at all to tell anyone. The only incentive that exists is to make sure that worker is quietly pushed away to a hospital. And because so many of these people are undocumented, theyre not going to leave the hospital and go report that to the police, which is what makes this such a nefarious crime.
Built in 1978, Conway High School is ready for some improvements.

Out of the $53 million of Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER III) federal funds to address the impact of COVID-19 on elementary and secondary schools, $34 million will likely go to improving the over 40-year-old school, according to Horry County Schools.

Its not really been improved or had structural enhancement in some time, said Facilities Committee chairman Neil James. He added that the original task list for these funds was a bit longer, but after getting more detail on the work required for CHS, the committee realized the need was more significant.

While some other schools in the district are close to the same age, like Socastee High, those schools have already seen major improvements, said Daryl Brown with HCS Support Services.

The bulk of the upgrades this round will be complete overhauls of the roofing and HVAC system that will meet code requirements, and Director of Planning Joe Burch said this is not a fit and finish renovation like new flooring, painting or knocking out walls.

I do think there may be a need down the road to come back and look at this school from a renovation standpoint, Burch said.

James said the upgrades are likely all code-related and should be considered a proper use of the funds.

Some of the identified issues that need a fix at CHS include: ductwork and above-ceiling HVAC systems that date to original construction era; the need for upgraded HVAC supply technology; air flow return system ductwork upgrades; humidity control issues; roof leaks and outdated coal tar pitch and gravel roof last replaced 21 years ago; building envelope leaks from old windows; and outdated fluorescent lighting to be replaced during ceiling demo and installation.

Its been a long time coming, said District 7 member Janet Graham. I submitted a list years ago of things that are just crumbling  this really gets us a long way down the road. If the board can get behind this, it is past time [to do it].
Have you ever wondered what could make the perfect milkshake even more perfect? Would a brownie do the trick? How about a full-size Reeses cup?

That is exactly what is being served up at the Crazy Mason Milkshake Bar.

The Crazy Mason first opened its doors on June 5, 2020, inside 810 Bowling at The Market Common. Before they went "crazy," founders Bo and Sherri Steele saw a similar idea and felt that something like that belonged in Myrtle Beach.

We thought Myrtle Beach had nothing like this, Bo Steele said.

At the time, the space in 810 where the Crazy Mason is located now wasnt occupied. Steele, who was working for U.S. Foods, spoke to the folks at 810 and they agreed to let the Steeles try their venture out.

Steele said even if the business didnt work out, there wasnt much to lose. The idea started out so simple. The store would be run by the couple and the two high school girls they brought on as staff. Bo Steele said that if things went well, he would still have his full-time job at U.S. Foods while his wife would leave her position as the marketing director for the Myrtle Beach Regional Economic Development Corp.

She was just going to manage those two girls, wed do about $400, $500 a night and wed make about what shed make in a year, Steele said. Wed be good to go.

The Crazy Mason brought in a little close to $2,000 in its opening weekend. Bo Steele said his wife started the social media for the milkshake bar, posting a simple post on Facebook saying "The Steeles have gone crazy! From there, it took off.

It just grabbed everybodys attention, Steele said. It took a life of its own.

Steele said the following day, the line was out the door and down the sidewalk when he came in.

We didnt know what to do, he said. [The line] went all the way back into the arcade and around. It was insane.

Bo Steele said that night the Crazy Mason ran out of items they had and were forced to close up shop early. Still, Bo Steele did not want his customers to leave disappointed.
The city of Myrtle Beach has reached a settlement with the NAACP in a federal lawsuit alleging racial discrimination during Atlantic Beach Bikefest in 2018 and will pay $50,000 to the NAACP, the city announced Tuesday.

The annual motorcycle event on Memorial Day weekend, which draws bikers to Myrtle Beach, is commonly referred to as Black Bike Week for the predominant participation of Black Americans.

Although the jury determined the citys heavier police presence and use of a 23-mile loop to reroute traffic was racially motivated, it concluded that the city would have employed similar measures if race werent a factor. Consequently, the city was not found to be in violation of the Civil Rights Act, and no monetary damages or injunctive relief were awarded.

The parties were, however, ordered by the court to enter mediation, where they reached a settlement requiring the city to contribute $50,000 to the NAACP within 30 days.

The settlement also requires the city to reevaluate the way it polices high-volume events through data-collection, public meetings, and consultation with experts in human rights, public safety and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

Per the agreement, the city will examine traffic patterns, emergency response times, crowd sizes and crime statistics during busy summer weekends, including Harley Week, Memorial Day weekend, the weekends before and after July 4th, the last weekend of July, the first weekend of August and Labor Day weekend.

It will cull data from the Myrtle Beach Police Department, license plate readers, city cameras, the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce and the Myrtle Beach Area International Airport.

Within 60 days after Labor Day each year beginning in 2022 and continuing through 2025, the settlement read, the City will provide the above data in a usable format to the traffic and public safety expert consultants described below, the City of Myrtle Beach Human Rights Commission, and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer described below and will make the data available to the public.
Democratic leaders in the General Assembly released a second draft of proposed congressional district maps over the weekend as they prepare to head into the final three days of their fall veto session.

Like the first set of maps that were released Oct. 15, the latest draft would create a number of oddly-shaped districts that are meant to favor Democratic candidates going into the 2022 midterm elections.

They would also create a second coalition district in the Chicago area, defined in the Illinois Voting Rights Act as a district where more than one group of racial minorities or language minorities may form a coalition to elect the candidate of the coalition's choice.

These new proposed congressional boundaries are historic and reflect the great diversity present throughout the state, said Rep. Lisa Hernandez, D-Cicero, who chairs the House Redistricting Committee. The proposal ensures minorities, as well as the rest of Illinoisans, have an equitable voice in representation in Washington.

The Illinois congressional delegation is currently divided between 13 Democrats and five Republicans, but the state is losing one of its districts next year due to its loss of population since the 2010 census.

An analysis by the political website FiveThirtyEight estimates the maps would create 13 Democratic-leaning districts, three Republican-leaning districts and one highly competitive district, the 17th District, currently represented by Democrat Cheri Bustos of Moline, who has announced she will not seek reelection next year.

The loss of two Republican seats in Illinois could prove important next year when Democrats are expected to lose seats and possibly their slim majority in the U.S. House.

The proposed map would accomplish that, in part, by pitting a number of incumbent Republicans against each other.

Republican Reps. Mike Bost of Murphysboro and Mary Miller of Oakland would be placed in a single southern Illinois District.

The map would also put Republican Reps. Darin LaHood, of Peoria, and Adam Kinzinger, of Channahon, into a reshaped 16th District that would stretch from the Bloomington-Normal area all the way to the Wisconsin border, circling around the city of Rockford.

Meanwhile, Republican Rodney Davis of Taylorville would be placed in a reshaped 15th District that includes his hometown, snakes east around the city of Champaign, then curves back west to take in much of west-central Illinois, from an area just north of St. Louis to an area just south of the Quad Cities.

The plan would also create a new 13th District that would stretch from Belleville and East St. Louis about 170 miles along a narrow stretch that extends to Springfield, Decatur and Champaign. That district currently has no incumbent, but FiveThirtyEight estimates it would lean Democratic by about 7 percentage points.

Republican leaders in the General Assembly did not immediately comment on the latest proposal, which is still subject to amendment before lawmakers vote on a new plan, presumably later this week.

The House Redistricting Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing on the proposal at 10 a.m. today at the Statehouse. The Senate Redistricting Committee is scheduled to meet Wednesday, but a time and location has not yet been announced.
Robert Alexander | Getty Images

It was the most famous gunfight in the history of the West, though legend has obscured the facts. One thing, however, is clear; there was a definite Illinois connection.

Today marks the 140th anniversary of the shootout at the O.K. Corral, a 30-second gunfight that pitted the legendary Earp brothers and Doc Holliday against the notorious Clantons and McLaurys in Tombstone, Arizona. At least four of the participants had lived in Illinois, but the event has become blurred by half-truths and tall tales that began almost immediately.

Wyatt Earp, the most famous of the fighters that day, was born on March 19, 1848 in Monmouth in Warren County, where the family home on South Third Street is a local landmark. Wyatts grandfather, a Methodist Episcopal preacher, served as the justice of the peace in Monmouth.

His father, Nicholas, had served in the Mexican War from Illinois, and named Wyatt in honor of his commanding officer in Mexico.

Wyatt was one of three Earp brothers at the O.K. Corral that day, including his older sibling Virgil, a deputy U.S. marshal and town marshal of Tombstone, who was the groups most experienced lawman.

That term, however, must be taken accordingly. Virgil and Wyatt had both worked in brothels back in Illinois, particularly in the Peoria area, and Wyatt reputedly spent time in Beardstown, along the Illinois River, in the summer of 1869. Along with their brothers, they also had straddled both sides of the law in Kansas and elsewhere.

During the Civil War, Virgil had spent two years in the 83rd Illinois. Another Earp brother, James, who was not at the O.K. Corral, served in the 17th Illinois during the war, while several Earp cousins were also in Union service.

The third Earp brother at the shootout was Morgan, who was born in Pella, Iowa, where the family had settled after leaving Illinois. The Earps returned to Monmouth in 1856, when Morgan was five, then went back to Pella in 1859.

The Earp brothers were a close-knit lot, and frequently moved around the West to be near one another. Along the way, Wyatt became close friends with Holliday, a hard-drinking dentist who suffered from tuberculosis.

By December 1879, Wyatt, Virgil, and James had settled in Tombstone, joined by Morgan the following July. Another Earp brother, Warren, also lived in Tombstone.

There, tensions ran high with a group of citizens dubbed the Cowboys, which was often applied to rustlers in that region. The Cowboys included Ike Clanton, who had his own ties to Illinois, and his younger brother, Billy.

Ikes father, Newman, operated a ranch near Tombstone, and had a shady reputation as well. Newman had died in an ambush just eleven weeks before the incident at the O.K. Corral.

Newman had moved his family from Missouri to Adams County in western Illinois in 1851, when Ike was four. Two years later, the Clantons relocated once again, to Texas, where Billy was born. Unlike the Earps, members of the Clanton family had served the Confederacy, as had Hollidays father.

Like the Clantons, the McLaury brothers, Frank and Tom, were also ranchers, but were commonly suspected of stealing cattle. Acrimony between the so-called lawmen and cowboys simmered throughout 1881, eventually boiling over in the gunfight near the O.K. Corral around 3 p.m. on Oct. 26.

It is unclear who fired the first shot, but experts generally agree that around thirty shots were fired. Nineteen-year-old Billy Clanton and both McLaury brothers were killed, while Ike Clanton and a family friend, Billy Claiborne, fled the scene.

Virgil Earp was shot in the calf and Morgan Earp was hit in the shoulder, while Holliday suffered a graze wound in his side. Only Wyatt Earp was untouched in the fight. A subsequent hearing ruled on November 30 that there was not enough evidence for a trial, and Virgil had acted within his rights as a lawman.

Wyatt Earp has since become a larger-than-life figure, but several participants at the O.K. Corral did not live for long. Morgan Earp was ambushed from behind while playing billiards in Tombstone less than four months after the gunfight.

Claiborne died in a shootout in Tombstone in November 1882. Ike Clanton was fatally shot by a law enforcement officer in June 1887, five months before tuberculosis claimed Holliday.

Though the O.K. Corral is synonymous with the gunfight, the actual incident took place in a 15-foot-wide, vacant lot on Fremont Street, not far from the corral. The gunfight has since been the subject of numerous books and movies which stretched the facts.

Shootouts were actually quite rare, but gunfighters and other outlaws have become disproportionately large figures in the history of western America.
JERSEYVILLE  The Jersey County school district is getting $378,754 to add eight rural Illinois school to a network focused on opioid and substance abuse prevention, suicide prevention education, and expanded educational opportunities.

The money is from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development grants for distance learning and telemedicine programs.
Costumes, games, trunk-or-treats and spooky reading times are all things the students on the Jacksonville High School Student Government remember doing as young kids growing up in Jacksonville.

Now, they want to do the same thing for kids Saturday.

The Jacksonville High School Student Government is holding a Spooktacular Storytime at the Jacksonville Public Library from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, during which members will be hosting several activities.

Every month we get together and plan a service project and we thought this would be a good way to celebrate and give back, student body President Sophie Homolka said. It reminds me of when I was that age and my church use to do the trunk-or-treats.

Claire Burrus said she remembers growing up and always going to Halloween carnival and trunk-or-treats, playing fun Halloween games and bobbing for apples.

Though bobbing for apples isnt on the list of activities, the students will be providing some traditional games, like pinning the nose on the witch  or something similar  reading stories and a costume contest for the kids.

Members of government will be dressing up too, Burrus said. We still have some things we are hashing out.

Brooke Brannan said after the last year, the members of government are excited to be able to interact with the kids and share some experience.

This is giving the kids the opportunity to do something fun and have some of the same experiences we were given when we were younger, Brannan said.

Burrus said she is looking forward to interacting with the younger kids.

All the little kids look up to us older kids, and this gives us a chance to talk to them and for them to see some of the things we do, Burrus said.

While they are happy to be celebrating the holiday, they also want to get children back to the library.

Having it at the library, well be bringing some attention back to the library, Burrus said. I remember going there all the time. I dont feel like its as common now.

The students will be giving out candy for the children and will have some allergy-friendly bags available as well. Children should bring a bag for candy if they can.
ISLAMABAD (AP)  Pakistan's prime minister on Tuesday approved the appointment of the country's new spy chief, a government statement said, ending speculation about his differences with the military.

The appointment of Lt. Gen. Nadeem Anjum as the head of the Inter-Services Intelligence agency is likely to defuse weekslong tension between Imran Khan and army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa.

On Oct. 6, Bajwa named Anjum to replace ISI chief Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed. Anjum was serving as the army's corps commander in the southern port city of Karachi.

Hameed has been appointed corps commander in the city of Peshawar by Bajwa this month.

Anjum did not take the chief spy position this month because of growing differences between Khan and Bajwa on procedural matters. Khan refused to sign a notification about Anjum's appointment because he believed that Bajwa did not consult him before unilaterally naming the new spy chief.

However, Khan resolved the matter at a meeting with Bajwa on Tuesday in which he chose Anjum from a list of three generals to lead the powerful spy agency. It saved Bajwa from any embarrassment.

Anjum begins his new position on Nov. 20, according to the statement.

Pakistan's military has ruled the country for more than half of its 74-year history and has been unwilling to see its influence challenged by civilian leaders.
Microphone and US Flag View Photo

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered a speech on the Senate floor regarding court-packing.

McConnell was Tuesdays KVML Newsmaker of the Day. Here are his words:

Earlier this week, during a trip to South America, Secretary of State Blinken said that, undermining the independence of the courts, and packing courts were among the ways that democracies can come undone.

His warning was apparently directed to neighbors in our hemisphere. But ironically, his own fellow Democrats here in Washington D.C. apparently need the same lecture.

Last week, President Bidens much-ballyhooed commission tasked with studying potential changes to the makeup of the U.S. Supreme Court issued its first findings. And in some corners of the radical left, there was predictable disappointment that it had not more explicitly fed the flames.

But lets be clear: the mere creation of this commission was itself a clumsy act of political thuggery against judicial independence.

And what it did seem to support  slapping term limits on Supreme Court justices  is no less of a radical affront to the principles on which the Court was established.

Madam President, curtailing the tenure of our nations seniormost judges is such an obvious threat to judicial independence, its literally been warned about since our nations founding.

Alexander Hamilton didnt mince words in Federalist 78. He warned that the judiciary is, in continual jeopardy of being overpowered, awed, or influenced by its co-ordinate branches; and that as nothing can contribute so much to its firmness and independence as permanency in office, this quality may therefore be justly regarded as an indispensable ingredient in its constitution.

An indispensable ingredient, Madam President. Alexander Hamilton on life tenure for judges.

Our founders insisted on it because they knew that the branches of government with the powers to write and execute laws would be tempted to undermine the branch that could exercise nothing but its judgment.

And to an alarming degree in recent years, weve seen Democrats in both the executive and the legislature succumb to exactly this temptation.

From the brazen amicus brief from a group of our Senate colleagues warning the Court to heal itself lest it be restructured

To the bizarre verbal threats issued by the Democratic Leader on the steps of the Court, naming Justices who would pay the price for failing to rule the way he wanted

To the pseudo-academic commission the President created to consider re-animating the ugly cadaver of court-packing that his party last tried 80 years ago.

Madam President, these are nonsense responses to a non-existent problem.

The real problem is the shameful depths to which Democrats are apparently willing to stoop in pursuit of brute power. As Ive said before, sensible people of all political stripes have an obligation to condemn this behavior.

But the most embarrassing condemnation of these tired tactics?

Our founders saw it all coming, centuries in advance.

The Newsmaker of the Day is heard every weekday morning at 6:45, 7:45 and 8:45 on AM 1450 and FM 102.7 KVML.
Pakistan, China urge world to send humanitarian aid to Kabul View Photo

ISLAMABAD (AP)  In a rare joint appeal, the leaders of Pakistan and China on Tuesday urged the international community to swiftly send humanitarian and economic aid to Afghanistan, where people are facing food and medicine shortages in the shadow of winter.

A government statement said Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed Afghanistan by phone, saying afterward that people there need international help to alleviate their suffering, prevent instability and rebuild after the United States withdrew and the Taliban seized power in August.

The latest development came a day after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with the Taliban representatives in Qatar to discuss a range of issues.

Pakistan and China are a longtime allies and along with other countries, theyve sent humanitarian aid to Kabul over the past two months.

Pakistan wants the world community to unfreeze Afghanistans assets to enable Kabul use its own money to avert the deepening crisis.

Currently, the Taliban government does not have access to the Afghanistan central banks $9 billion in reserves, most of which is held by the New York Federal Reserve.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Louisiana will receive $595 million in federal disaster block grant aid to help with housing restoration and other recovery needs from last years back-to-back blows of Hurricanes Laura and Delta, the states two U.S. senators announced Tuesday.

While welcomed by officials as critical to rebuilding efforts in southwest Louisiana, the money falls far short of the multibillion-dollar estimates of need, offering only about 20% of the $3 billion in assistance requested by Gov. John Bel Edwards.

It also comes 14 months after Laura wrecked the Lake Charles region, a delay that had locals questioning whether the nation had forgotten them.

It has been over a year since Louisiana was hammered by Hurricane Laura and this relief has taken far too long, Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy said in a statement. This funding is a welcome first step, but there is more work to be done to return southwest Louisiana to wholeness.

GOP U.S. Sen. John Kennedy said the money will provide a helping hand as we rebuild.

Louisianians are still reeling from the damage left by Laura and Delta, he said in a statement.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will oversee the block grant aid, which will require the state to outline plans for spending the money and receive federal approval of the plans. The state Office of Community Development will oversee the spending.

Edwards said Louisiana already is drafting its spending proposal for submission once HUD issues its regulations. But the Democratic governor also suggested the state will be requesting more assistance from Washington, saying the current amount is not in our view sufficient.

We will do everything that we can with the money we are given to make sure that there is a complete and robust recovery, but it will be very challenging to do that with $595 million, Edwards said.

The federal disaster aid was included in legislation passed by Congress last month that also helped avoid a government shutdown. Billions were set aside for disaster relief across multiple states. Louisiana had been waiting to receive its specific allocation figure.

Laura struck the southwestern parishes on Aug. 27, 2020, as a fierce Category 4 hurricane. Less than two months later, Delta swept into the same area as a Category 2 storm. Historic flooding followed in May. Across southwest Louisiana, homes still bear blue tarps and await roof repairs, businesses remain boarded up and some neighborhoods look almost abandoned. Thousands remain displaced.

The region has received hundreds of millions of dollars in disaster aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help people with short-term needs and to help replace damaged government buildings. But the block grant aid will help with long-term housing assistance and other rebuilding work that didnt qualify for FEMA aid.

After the first estimates emerged about what Louisiana would receive for Laura and Delta recovery, Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter described the block grant money in a Facebook post as woefully insufficient for the outstanding recovery issues, but he also said it will make a dent in our great housing need.

Cassidy has said the congressional delegation will keep making the case for more federal aid for southwest Louisiana, but he said that will be difficult to achieve.

Louisiana also is hoping to get additional disaster block grant assistance for its recovery from Hurricane Ida, which struck southeastern parishes on Aug. 29 as a Category 4 storm and left a widespread trail of damage.

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Follow Melinda Deslatte on Twitter at http://twitter.com/melindadeslatte.

By MELINDA DESLATTE

Associated Press
NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (AP)  Illegal drugs are suspected after three people were found dead at a home in Newport Beach early Monday, authorities said.

A fourth person was hospitalized following a call for medical aid from the residence on Balboa Island, Heather Rangel, a police spokesperson, said in an email.

Officers found the bodies of two women and a man, Rangel said.

Hours later, police Lt. Keith Krallman told reporters that investigators suspect drugs, possibly fentanyl, were involved. He said a hazardous-materials team was trying to determine whether it was safe for detectives and coroners officials to enter the home.

The hospitalized man was the one who called 911, the Orange County Register reported. He was expected to survive.

Balboa Island is in Newport Bay, about 40 miles (64 km) southeast of Los Angeles.
CHICAGO (AP) 

When the discovery of more than two dozen bodies stashed under John Wayne Gacy's house near Chicago was making headlines all over the world in the late 1970s, Francis Wayne Alexander's family in New York didn't think much of it. The way they saw it, Alexander had cut off communication with them because he wanted to be left alone.

Then came news this month that for more than 40 years, the man they knew as Wayne was known as Victim #5 in the city where he had gone to start a new life. They were told that DNA tests on the remains of one of the half-dozen unidentified victims of the notorious serial killer were Alexander's.

They just loved him, but they thought that he wanted nothing more to do with them, so thats why there was never a missing persons report, Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart said at a news conference Monday announcing the latest victim identification.

Though Dart said Alexander's mother and other relatives didn't want to speak publicly about his identification as a Gacy victim, Alexander's sister, Carolyn Sanders, made clear that the family never stopped thinking of what might have become of him.

It is hard, even 45 years later, to know the fate of our beloved Wayne, Sanders wrote in a statement released by Dart's office. He was killed at the hands of a vile and evil man. Our hearts are heavy, and our sympathies go out to the other victims families. ... We can now lay to rest what happened and move forward by honoring Wayne.

Alexander's remains were among 26 sets that police found in the crawl space under Gacy's home just outside the city. Three other victims were found buried on Gacy's property and another four people whom Gacy admitted killing were found in waterways south of Chicago.

Eight victims, including Alexander, were buried before police could determine who they were. But Dart's office exhumed the eight sets of remains in 2011 and called on anyone who had a male relative disappear in the Chicago area in the 1970s, when Gacy was trolling for victims, to submit DNA.

Within weeks, the sheriff's office announced that it had identified one set of remains as those of William Bundy, a 19-year-old construction worker. In 2017, it identified a second set as those of 16-year-old Jimmy Haakenson, who disappeared after he phoned his mother in Minnesota and told her that he was in Chicago.

Dart and Lt. Jason Moran shared what they knew about Alexander. Born in North Carolina, he and his family moved to New York, where he eventually got married before moving to Chicago in 1975, where he soon divorced.

The last known records of Alexander's life were traffic tickets he received, the last of which came in January 1976. Unlike many victims who were lured to Gacy's home with the promise that he'd get them construction work, Alexander worked in bars and clubs and there was no record of him working in construction or having made contact with Gacy.

But Alexander did live in an area that Gacy frequented and that was where some Gacy's other victims had lived, including Bundy.

Unlike with Bundy and Haakenson, who were identified because family members heeded Dart's 2011 call for the public to submit DNA, Alexander was identified through a partnership between the sheriff's office and the DNA Doe Project. The nonprofit compared Victim #5's DNA profile to profiles on a genealogy website to find potential relatives. That led it to Alexander's family, and Alexander's mother and half-brother provided their DNA for comparison.

Between the genetic testing, financial records, post-mortem reports and other information, investigators were able to confirm that the remains were Alexander's. They were able to get a general sense of when he was killed because they knew when the victim who was buried on top of him went missing.

Dart and Moran said the department might be able to use the method used to identify Alexander to identify scores of other people in the county who died and were buried anonymously.

This is one of the newest investigative tools for investigations of missing and unidentified persons, Moran said.

Dart declined to give Alexander's hometown, saying the family hasn't said if it wants to have his remains returned to it or to keep them where they've been buried for all these years.

In its news release, the sheriff's office thanked the police department in Erwin, about 35 miles (56 kilometers) south of Raleigh, for its help.

The submission of DNA from people who suspected Gacy might have killed their loved ones has helped police solve at least 11 cold cases of homicides that had nothing to do with Gacy, who was executed in 1994. It has also helped families find loved ones who while missing, were alive, including a man in Oregon who had no idea his family was looking for him.

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This story was first published on Oct. 25. It was updated on Oct. 26 to correct that Alexander's family was living in New York by the time Gacy was arrested in 1978, not in North Carolina.
Jorg Greuel/Getty Images

SEATTLE (AP)  Maritime workers are waiting for calmer weather before they can retrieve some 35 containers that have been drifting near the Strait of Juan de Fuca for the past several days, the Canadian Coast Guard said Monday.

The containers are drifting parallel to shore off the southwest coast of Vancouver Island near Tofino, British Columbia, based on aerial tracking, The Seattle Times reported.
BILLINGS, Mont. (AP)  President Joe Biden's administration announced Tuesday plans to cancel two environmental rollbacks under former President Donald Trump that limited habitat protections for imperiled plants and wildlife.

The proposal to drop the two Trump-era rules by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service is part of a broad effort by the Biden administration to undo regulations that Democrats and wildlife advocates say favored industry over the environment.

The designation of lands and waters as critical for the survival of vulnerable species can limit mining, oil drilling and other development. That's made the designations a flashpoint for conflict between environmental and business interests.

Industry groups and Republicans in Congress have long viewed the Endangered Species Act as an impediment to economic development. Under Trump, they successfully lobbied to weaken the laws regulations with changes that gave added weight to economic development and other interests.

The Trump administration changes had backing from an array of industry groups that said economic impacts had not been given enough consideration in past U.S. government wildlife decisions. Those groups ranged from livestock and ranching organizations to trade associations representing oil, gas and mining interests.

Biden administration officials acknowledged in documents published to the federal register that in canceling Trump's rules, they were adopting views that federal wildlife agencies rejected just months ago.

But the Biden administration officials said a reevaluation of the Trump policies showed them to be problematic because they limited the government's ability to advance conservation by protecting areas where plants and animals are found.

Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz said the proposal would bring the endangered species law into alignment with its original intent and purpose  protecting and recovering America's biological heritage for future generations.

Republicans lawmakers pushed back. Arkansas Rep. Bruce Westerman, the ranking GOP member of the House Natural Resources Committee, called Tuesday's move a tone deaf reversal of needed reforms to the endangered species law.

Westerman and other Republicans said they were introducing legislation to make the Trump rules permanent. That stands little chance of passing while Democrats remain in control of the House and Senate.

The rule changes under Trump were finalized during his last weeks in office, meaning they've had little time to make a significant impact. No new critical habitat designations have been affected by the rules since they went into effect in January, Fish and Wildlife spokesperson Brian Hires said.

One allows the government to deny habitat protections for endangered animals and plants in areas that could see greater economic benefits from development. Democratic lawmakers and wildlife advocates complained that would potentially open lands to more drilling and other activities.

The other rule provided a definition of habitat that critics charged would exclude locations species might need to use in the future as climate change upends ecosystems.

The two rules came in response to a 2018 U.S. Supreme Court ruling involving a highly endangered Southern frog  the dusky gopher frog.

In that case, a unanimous court faulted the government over how it designated critical habitat for the 3 -inch-long (8.9-centimetre-long) frogs that survive in just a few ponds in Mississippi.

The issue arose after a timber company, Weyerhaeuser, sued when land it owned in Louisiana was designated as critical in case the frogs returned there in the future.

Trump officials described the changes as giving more deference to local governments when they want to build things like schools and hospitals.

But the rules allowed potential exemptions from habitat protections for a much broader array of developments, including at the request of private companies that lease federal lands or have permits to use them. Government-issued leases and permits can allow energy development, grazing, recreation, logging and other commercial uses of public lands.

Environmentalists who have urged Biden to reverse Trump's conservation policies said dropping the habitat rules marks a major step toward that goal.

You really cant save endangered species without protecting the places they live or need to live, said Noah Greenwald with the Center for Biological Diversity.

Still pending, he said, are expected changes to a Trump-era a rule that reduced protections for wildlife categorized as threatened with extinction, a less urgent protection status than endangered.

Animals potentially affected by the changes include the struggling lesser prairie chicken, a grasslands bird found in five states in the south-central U.S., and the rare dunes sagebrush lizard that lives among the oil fields of western Texas and eastern New Mexico, wildlife advocates said.

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Follow Matthew Brown on twitter: @MatthewBrownAP
San Antonio's ties to the past are evident in the art that covers walls throughout town, in passed down recipes, and the music that still gets people to the dance floor decades after it was released. It should be no surprise then that while San Antonio makes space on the calendar to honor the holiday, the Day of the Dead spirit is felt all year long in a city that is itself a living ofrenda. After all, Dia de los Muertos is a celebration that lasts long after November ends.

The two-day Mexican tradition is often a joyful celebration of the dead, both of what they enjoyed while living and what they left behind. Ofrendas, or altars, are built and festooned with marigolds, photos, trinkets, and favorites of late loved ones. Families and friends honor their departed family members by enjoying the foods they liked, sharing anecdotes of their time on earth, and praying.

The nightlife scene is also about preserving the past. Bar owners Brian Correa (Bar America), Jody Bailey Newman (Bruno's), Andy Palacios (Tony's Siesta), and Aaron Pena (Amor Eterno) have founds ways to honor their families and city history while entertaining today's customers.

Brian Correa, Bar America

Courtesy, Bar America

Correa is the fourth generation owner of Bar America. His grandfather Martin Ramirez started the bar in 1942. The family business occupied multiple locations throughout the downtown area since then, ultimately settling into the current space at 723 S Alamo Street in the 1980s. Ramirez died in August 2016, two years after his grandson took over.

"One thing that I've always enjoyed, or that I've always taken pride in, is my grandfather basically taught me our business," Correa says. "And a lot of the way that we run the business today is the way that that he taught me."

The space at Bar America pays homage to the bar Ramirez built. A neon sign that's glowed since the early days still hangs in the corner, as does the bar's original jukebox. Like a traditional ofrenda, Correa offers his grandpa's favorite list of low-frills beers at the bar: Lone Star, Bud Light, and Miller Light. Correa keeps a portrait of his grandpa, painted by San Antonio artist Paul Garson, hanging near the entrance. Don Martin is felt from the moment patrons walk in off South Alamo.

"That picture, it's very important for me to have that up there. No matter what change has happened in the neighborhood or throughout my life," Correa says, "it's always good to look up there and see that picture and remember where we started and where we came from."

He says the portrait opens the dialogue between him and customers. He's able to tell him about the man who started it all. He says his grandpa was a "stern businessman."

"Running a bar or cantina 40 or 50 years ago was a lot different than today. Some bars didn't allow women inside, hence the 'Ladies Welcome' on the window above our main doors," Correa adds.

But he was a family man first.

"He always said 'all the hours and hard work we put in to the business are for the family,'" Correa remembers.

Now Correa is part owner of Amor Eterno, which is housed behind Bar America, and is in the development phases of a new venture.

"We wouldn't have been able to do it had it not been for the foundation that my grandfather laid out," the bar owner says. "I wish he was here to see the progress of all his hard work and years that he put in."

Courtesy, Jody Bailey Newman

Jody Bailey Newman, Bruno's

Newman, who owns the popular Friendly Spot, opened Bruno's Dive Bar earlier this year to transform the space back to its 1960s roots, when Bruno and Dianne Dzanski ran their business, B&D Ice House there. Bruno is 91 now. His wife died "decades" ago, Newman says.

The new Bruno's, situated in the center of a burgeoning Southtown, offers the same laid-back atmosphere that was around with the Dzanskis were in charge. Friends pop tops around the intimate bar and share stories with the bartenders. There's still a jukebox and a pay phone in a corner along with a few billiards tables. Walls are decorated with signs from Bruno's collections. Newman has added family photos near the bar, too. She also plans to include a mural dedicated to the Dzanski history.

Courtesy, Jody Bailey Newman

Bruno has been in a few times to see the reinvented space and share stories with his family and friends. It's a way of giving him his flowers while he's alive.

Newman calls herself a "visitor" of Mexican culture.

"You're immersed in it in certain neighborhoods in this city, there's a feeling and that feeling is attractive," Newman says. "So I think especially to us, as visitors to that, we sort of have a responsibility I think. These are the people who laid the foundation for what we're doing. They're a part of what we're doing every day, whether people are able to acknowledge that or not."

Chuck Blount /Staff

Andy Palacios, Tony's Siesta

Tony's Siesta shares the mission of celebrating its predecessors while they're around to see it. Andy Palacios took over the Irish Flats hangout from original owner Tony Lopez, who has owned the bar for more than 20 years before retiring. In October 2020, Palacios reopened it with a new name: Tony's Siesta.

From the moment Lopez handed over the keys, Palacios says he understood the responsibility of preserving the Lopez legacy while ushering the local favorite into a new era for a new generation of San Antonians to enjoy.

Courtesy, Andy Palacios

Today, it is a brightly colored bar with a hacienda-like vibe where Bad Bunny and Selena provide the playlist for dance moves fueled by boozy aguas frescas. But before, it was Lopez's quaint hangout filled with Spurs memorabilia and warm conversations.

Palacios has maintained the genuine San Antonio feel, though with a brighter aesthetic. He's kept the vintage wall paintings welcoming guests to Tony's on the exterior and the mini Tower of the Americas sculpture in the front yard. The new owner is also big on conversation. Palacios' patrons enjoy hearing the history of the little limestone building, which dates back to the 1890s. Before becoming Tony's, the building was Hunter and Elsie Cafe in the 1940s. Palacios found a sign from the old restaurant, which he says will be added to one of the walls, touting Mexican food lunches and short orders. In its earliest years, the location was a residence.

"Everyone just eats that up," Palacios says. "The love the idea and the concept of what we did with it and how we're keeping the past, but also moving forward with the new design inside."

Courtesy, Andy Palacios

The owner says working at Blue Box, a Pearl bar, stirred his appreciation for building something new while incorporating the history of the people and spaces that existed before. The Pearl, which is now a mixed-used development, was once a brewery with a storied timeline in San Antonio. Palacios says he remembers a time when the bar scene in San Antonio was mostly chain establishments. He describes not having a lot of choices to hangout at that were authentically San Antonio as being "frustrating."

"Just seeing this area grow, that's when I knew that I wanted to work on a legacy bar, something with history, something I can continue to grow and share with San Antonio," he adds.

Tony's Siesta recently celebrated a one-year anniversary, which Lopez attended. The guest appearance isn't surprising though; Palacios says Lopez approves of what he's done with space so much he's become a regular.

Palacios says the bar is planning on honoring all of Lopez's work and San Antonio's culture "Muertos style" in the days to come.

Courtesy, Amor Eterno

Aaron Pena, Amor Eterno

Amor Eterno, the newest concept by bar owner Aaron Pena, opened in December 2020. Like Squeezebox, Pena's St. Mary's Strip bar Amor Eterno taps in to San Antonio's identity. Rather than bar nuts, customers are served chicharrones with hot sauce, and among the list of craft cocktails, there's a drink dedicated to the Southside.

There's also an ofrenda which stays up year-round to display family photos Pena's grandmother Amelia Reyes and a portrait of Correa's grandpa.

"The name 'Amor Eterno' is significant to our culture, because it kind of reminds us of those funerals and birthdays, so it was important for us to have those photos hanging," Pena adds.

He says the name of the bar also generates some interest, especially if the visitors are not familiar with Mexican culture.

Courtesy, Aaron Pena

"I tell them that in English it means eternal love, but that there's a whole that whole back story of the song and what that means to us, so we're able to educate them on our culture just through that that name," he says.

Pena says that even on busy nights, customers stop and ask him about the people in the photos.

"So I'm able to kind of take them on a little family tour and tell them the history of our family building," he says.
GUILFORD, Conn. (AP)  A racial reckoning began years ago for the Guilford school system, first with an episode in which a student wore blackface makeup to a home football game and then a fraught debate over the elimination of its mascot, the Indians. After the killing of George Floyd, district leaders announced they were doubling down on efforts to address social justice and racism in schools and teaching materials.

But an organized pushback in the overwhelmingly white community began last year with a petition for the superintendents removal. This summer, conservative activists won the GOPs endorsement for school board, knocking out three incumbents in the Republican caucus. In next weeks elections, their slate aims to seize control of the school board.

The top issue on their platform is to fight critical race theory, which has become a rallying cry for activist candidates in the Nov. 2 elections all over the country who take issue with how schools have addressed diversity and inclusion.

It was a surprise to me to be lumped in that national conversation, Superintendent Paul Freeman said. There have been direct accusations in Guilford that teachers are bullying and indoctrinating children in leftist political agenda. That could not be more wrong.

The school board elections will test the durability of conservative efforts to attack equity initiatives, with much at stake. Where opponents see efforts to stop liberal indoctrination, incumbents and school administrators fear takeovers could result in school board members becoming thorns in the side of professional educators.

Interest in school board seats has surged, with national conservative groups and state-level efforts encouraging challenges by right-learning newcomers amid debates over COVID-19 mask mandates, gender-neutral bathrooms, and teachings on race.

Schools have been addressing issues of diversity and culturally responsive teaching for years without stirring much controversy, but flames of frustration in some communities have been fanned by groups with bigger agendas, said Jeffrey Henig, a professor of political science and education at Columbia University.

Some Republicans, he said, see it as an issue that can help them win suburban votes in midterm elections.

Its in the current context where I think this is being deliberately exploited by national actors that this is getting the energy and attention it does, he said.

Critical race theory is a way of analyzing American history through the lens of racism. While the term has been applied broadly by some to any efforts toward inclusion, the theory itself is not a fixture of K-12 instruction.

In Guilford, a New Haven suburb of 22,000 on Connecticuts shoreline, Freeman said the district's work on race and equity intensified after last year's debate over the mascot, which is now the Grizzlies, and the 2019 blackface episode at a game against a team from Hartford. Students and young alumni, he said, called on the school system to do more on topics of race and equity so graduates would not feel sheltered.

The work has included a self-audit of curriculum to ensure materials do not reflect implicit bias and include authors with diverse experiences and backgrounds. In eighth grade, for one example, students learn about enslaved people who lived in Guilford so they do not see the Colonial period in an idealized way, Freeman said.

Opponents criticized Freeman for assigning administrators to read books including White Fragility: Why Its So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism. One national group, No Left Turn in Education, organized a June forum in Guilford on what they see as the threat of critical race theory.

One of the five candidates on the slate opposed to critical race theory, Danielle Scarpellino, a local business owner, said in an appearance on  Fox & Friends First  in July that it was district leaders who were introducing politics into schools, saying students were being used as political pawns. None of the candidates responded to interview requests from The Associated Press.

Another candidate, Tim Chamberlain, said on a campaign website that his child's teachers have tried to persuade him to abandon his conservative viewpoint during discussion of topics ranging from global warming to affirmative action.

Independent and Democratic candidates have joined forces to campaign against the slate of anti-critical race theory candidates. Among them is Kristy Faulkner, a molecular biologist and zoning board of appeals member who said she signed up to run after seeing equity and inclusion turned into bad words by her rivals.

She said she also worries that if the newcomers win, they would not find any middle ground with the existing school board members.

Im just envisioning basically a total meltdown of productivity on the board, she said.

Its unclear how many of the thousands of U.S. school board races include agenda-driven newcomers, but there are examples around the country.

In Ohio, the number of school board candidates has ballooned by 50% from four years ago, according to the Ohio School Boards Association. Almost half of the 2,600 candidates are political newcomers, including many whose anger has been stoked by critical race theory.

Seven candidates are running for just three seats on the school board in Chagrin Falls, a suburb of Cleveland where some parents have objected to racial inclusion policies. In nearby Rocky River, a conservative slate taking aim at critical race theory is running on the slogan: Education not activism."

In communities where mask mandates are attracting the most attention in school board races, as in Dover, New Hampshire, some candidates have also questioned approaches to diversity and inclusion. Several newcomers in Dover have said discussions of diversity should be broadened beyond race, and one candidate has spoken out against critical race theory.

Guilford's nine-member school board is chaired by Kathleen Balestracci, a Democrat, who said initiatives on equity and inclusion are important work that students and community members asked the district to take on. Balestracci, who is not up for reelection, said she often has heard from parents seeking clarity on policies during her 10 years on the board  but nothing like the acrimony she has seen lately.

I dont think Ive experienced a situation in which we have thoroughly explained what were trying to do and the approach were trying to take and then have the response be, Youre lying,'" said Balestracci, a research faculty member at the Yale School of Medicine.

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Associated Press writers Julie Carr Smyth in Columbus, Ohio, and Michael Casey in Dover, New Hampshire contributed to this report.
The effect of an ambiguous Texas law banning the teaching of critical race theory (CRT) in K-12 schools is now being seen in real time. Earlier this month, state educators made headlines for their struggles to comply with the law, including one school administrator requesting teachers present opposing views of the Holocaust due to its ideological basis in white supremacy, and another district pulling books by a renowned Black author for review after parents alleged the books promoted the principles of CRT.

Critical race theory teaches that racism is embedded in the foundations of America's history and is institutionalized in its legal systems and government policies, however its opponents argue that CRT is itself a racist, anti-white ideology. So what is it about the new legislation that's leaving Texas schools grasping for ways to comply? House Bill 3979 vaguely states that teachers cannot "require or make part of a course" certain race-related concepts including the idea that one race or sex is "inherently superior to another race or sex" or that an individual is is "inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive" based on their race or sex.

The bill also states that teachers can't be compelled "to discuss current events or widely debated and currently controversial issues of public policy or social affairs." However, if they must, they are required to "explore such issues from diverse and contending perspectives without giving deference to any one perspective."

Vida Robertson, director of the University of Houston Downtown's Center for Critical Race Studies, said the legislation was intentionally constructed to cause uncertainty among teachers for how it should be interpreted. "It was intended for parents, for legislatures, to make accusations against people who were offering historical facts or perspectives that made them uncomfortable," he argued.

However, critical race theory is not actually even taught in K-12 education and is instead typically reserved for law school or graduate school students, said Celeste Alana Brown, director of advocacy at San Antonio-based Compass Rose Public Schools. Brown, who often engages with lawmakers around policies that will impact students and educators, spoke out against HB 3979 on behalf of her organization when it was introduced during the regular legislative session this summer.

"Our focus was primarily on the fact that we want to ensure our educators are able to teach the truth," Brown explained. "And that all students feel celebrated, welcome and included in our classrooms."

In order to comply with the bill, Brown said her district has been following guidelines provided by the Texas Education Agency. However, those guidelines mostly just restate the language of the legislation."We still remain committed to equity and inclusion work and we let our educators know that it's important to teach accurately and give students room to engage in dialogue while still adhering to the law," Brown said. "The ways in which we engage our staff and create space for these conversations around inclusivity have just been adjusted but the work continues nonetheless."

Teaching students the truth, however ugly or complicated it might be, is harder for educators to do under the bill as fear begins to dominate classroom discussions, Robertson said. In Carroll Independent School District near Dallas-Forth Worth, a school administrator in charge of curriculum and instruction advised teachers during an Oct. 8 training session to offer students an "opposing perspective" regarding the Holocaust, according to NBC News.

Just try to remember the concepts of [House Bill] 3979, the administrator said in a recording obtained by NBC News. And make sure that if you have a book on the Holocaust... that you have one that has an opposing, that has other perspectives. Teachers in the district told NBC News they feared being punished for stocking classrooms with books about racism, slavery and the Holocaust, as the training was in response to a parent's complaint that a fourth grade teacher kept an anti-racism book in her classroom.

When introducing the legislation, the bill's author Rep. Steve Toth stated it was "about teaching racial harmony by telling the truth that we are all equal, both in God's eyes and our founding documents." However, Robertson said that Toth has a romanticized view of the country and that history continues to prove the imbalance between groups and the struggle for equality, pointing specifically to moments including the passage of the 13th amendment and the landmark civil rights case Brown v. Board of Education.

The bill instead fails to consider the feelings of students of color when discussing these moments in history, Robertson said. "When we're teaching slavery... don't African American children feel discomfort? So we can't teach slavery?" he asked. "But see that's not what we were actually talking about were we?"

While the law assumes critical race theory teaches that one race is superior to the other, the fundamental premise of CRT, which emerged from critical legal studies, is that race is not real and is not biological, Robertson explained.

"It is something that we use as a society to organize ourselves and to organize who gets our resources, opportunities and power," he said. "It's infused into our systems, structures, institutions, practices and our social norms."

Furthermore, "since racism is therefore quite normal," Robertson argued, "we're going to use it at different times in different ways in order to maintain the social structure that we put in place or the status quo. We will create different racial groups at different moments in time in order to serve different ends of the society to maintain the power, the resources and the opportunities of the dominant group who are controlling this."

HB 3979 at work is actually proof of critical race theory at work, Robertson said, pointing to when Katy ISD temporarily pulled books by award-winning Black author Jerry Craft and cancelled his speaking event over allegations that his work promoted the practice.

"Mr. Craft wrote a book about the way he experienced Blackness and here comes a parent and says 'I don't like that.. therefore your very existence is going to be expelled from the educational process,'" Robertson said. "The way the bill is set up, the dominant group again is privileging its own perspective in order to systematically, institutionally, legally, marginalize other groups and control the resources, power and the opportunities that are available. The bill is being used exactly the way it was intended."
Yves here. Weve been saying that vaccine-only mandates are misguided. While it is seldom stated implicitly, they embody the false view that vaccines protect others from infection. They were never tested for that in clinical trials; they were measuredly solely on impact on severe cases and deaths. Without regular, large-scale testing, there is no way to know what impact the vaccines have on preventing infections, particularly asymptomatic infections.

A fresh, admittedly only mid-sized study, suggests that vaccination status has no impact on the viral load of Covid patients, both symptomatic and asymptomatic. The layperson summary from its website:

A new study from the University of California, Davis, Genome Center, UC San Francisco and the Chan Zuckerberg Biohub shows no significant difference in viral load between vaccinated and unvaccinated people who tested positive for the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2. It also found no significant difference between infected people with or without symptoms. The findings underscore the continuing need for masking and regular testing alongside vaccination, especially in areas of high prevalence, the authors wrote.

The article stresses that viral load doesnt fully measure infectiousness (duration of exposure is another important variable), nor did the study measure how prone the vaccinated are to getting asymptomatic or mild cases. Data from Israels Health Ministry in early July showed Covid cases, even when stratified by age, were proportional among the vaccinated versus non-vaccinated. Israel had vaccinated most of its citizens with the Pfizer vaccine in January and February, so at a minimum, this data indicated that protection against infection (versus bad outcomes) was gone by then. Surges in very highly vaccinated countries like Ireland and Singapore also suggest that vaccination offers at best limited protection against Delta spread, as opposed to bad outcomes.

Thus very frequent testing and isolation should be one of the top, if not the top, measure in multi-layered approach to limit Covid contagion. Instead, as we have warned, heavy-handed vaccine-only mandates are endangering more lives than they are likely to save (remember they are being billed as benefitting co-workers and patients/customers, not the jab recipient). The health care industry is already under tremendous stress due to staff at all levels, but particularly critical and often not well paid front line workers (nurses, aides, cleaning staff) quitting due to burnout and not being paid enough in relationship to Covid-increased demands and risks. Weve pointed out that hospitals suffer from reduced capacity due to resignations and retirements. The nursing home industry was chronically short staffed before Covid.

In organizations already struggling to function adequately, it doesnt take many employees leaving to push them into service failures that cost lives. As the article below shows, even in a state like Maine with high overall vaccination levels (over 70% fully vaccinated), there are enough EMTs refusing vaccinations and getting turfed out as a result to put those who remain in an impossible bind: either work insane hours or not answer calls quickly enough. And thats before getting to the risk of some of these EMT teams imploding, as the remaining overloaded staffers quit out of being unable to perform well with too few hands.

By Patty Wight, Maine Public Radio. Produced by Maine Public Radio, NPR and KHN

On a recent morning, Jerrad Dinsmore and Kevin LeCaptain of Waldoboro EMS in rural Maine drove their ambulance to a secluded house near the ocean, to measure the clotting levels of a woman in her 90s.

They told the woman, bundled under blankets to keep warm, they would contact her doctor with the result.

Is there anything else we can do? Dinsmore asked.

No, she said. Im all set.

This wellness check, which took about 10 minutes, is one of the duties Dinsmore and LeCaptain perform in addition to the emergency calls they respond to as staffers with Waldoboro Emergency Medical Service.

EMS crews have been busier than ever this year, as people who delayed getting care during the covid-19 pandemic have grown progressively sicker.

But theres limited workforce to meet the demand. Both nationally and in Maine, staffing issues have plagued the EMS system for years. Its intense work that takes a lot of training and offers low pay. The requirement in Maine and elsewhere that paramedics and emergency medical technicians be vaccinated against covid is another stress on the workforce.

Dinsmore and LeCaptain spend more than 20 hours a week working for Waldoboro on top of their full-time EMS jobs in other towns. Its common in Maine for EMS staffers to work for multiple departments, because most EMS crews need the help  and Waldoboro may soon need even more of it.

The department has already lost one EMS worker who quit because of Maines covid vaccine mandate for health care workers, and may lose two more.

The stress of filling those vacancies keeps Town Manager Julie Keizer awake at night.

So, were a 24-hour service, Keizer said. If I lose three people who were putting in 40 hours or over, thats 120 hours I cant cover. In Lincoln County, we already have a stressed system.

The labor shortage almost forced Waldoboro to shut down ambulance service for a recent weekend. Keizer said she supports vaccination but believes Maines decision to mandate it threatens the ability of some EMS departments to function.

Maine is one of 10 states that require health care workers to get vaccinated against covid or risk losing their jobs. Along with Oregon, Washington and Washington, D.C., it also explicitly includes the EMTs and paramedics who respond to 911 calls in that mandate. Some ambulance crews say its making an ongoing staffing crisis even worse.

Two hundred miles north of Waldoboro, on the border with Canada, is Fort Fairfield, a town of 3,200. Deputy Fire Chief Cody Fenderson explained that two workers got vaccinated after the mandate was issued in mid-August, but eight quit.

That was extremely frustrating, Fenderson said.

Now Fort Fairfield has only five full-time staffers available to fill 10 slots. Its roster of per-diem workers all have full-time jobs elsewhere, many with other EMS departments that are also facing shortages.

You know, anybody who does ambulances is suffering, said Fenderson. Its tough. Im not sure what were going to do, and I dont know what the answer is.

In Maines largest city, Portland, the municipal first-responder workforce is around 200 people, and eight are expected to quit because of the vaccine mandate, according to the union president for firefighters, Chris Thomson.

That may not seem like a significant loss, but Thomson said those are full-time positions and those vacancies will have to be covered by other employees who are already exhausted by the pandemic and working overtime.

You know, the union encourages people to get their vaccine. I personally got the vaccine. And were not in denial of how serious the pandemic is, Thomson said. But the firefighters and the nurses have been doing this for a year and a half, and I think that weve done it safely. And I think the only thing that really threatens the health of the public is short staffing.

Thomson maintains that unvaccinated staffers should be allowed to stay on the job because theyre experts in infection control and wear personal protective equipment such as masks and gloves.

But Maines public safety commissioner, Mike Sauschuck, said EMS departments also risk staff shortages if workers are exposed to covid and have to isolate or quarantine.

Win-win scenarios are often talked about but seldom realized, he said. So sure, you may have a situation where staffing concerns are a reality in communities. But for us, we do believe the broader impact, the safer impact on our system is through vaccination.

Some EMS departments in Maine have complied fully with the mandate, with no one quitting. Andrew Turcotte, the fire chief and director of EMS for the city of Westbrook, said all 70 members of his staff are now vaccinated. He doesnt see the new mandate as being any different from the vaccine requirements to attend school or enter the health care field.

I think that we all have not only a social responsibility but a moral one, Turcotte said. We chose to get into the health care field, and with that comes responsibilities and accountabilities. That includes ensuring that youre vaccinated.

Statewide numbers released last week show close to 97% of EMS workers in Maine have gotten vaccinated. But that varies by county: Rural Piscataquis and Franklin counties reported that 18% and 10% of EMS employees, respectively, were still unvaccinated as of mid-October.

Not all EMS departments have reported their vaccination rates to the state. Waldoboro is in Lincoln County, where only eight of 12 departments have reported their rates. Among those eight, the rate of noncompliance was just 1.6%.

But in small departments like Waldoboro, the loss of even one staff member can create a huge logistical problem. Over the past few months, Waldoboros EMS director, Richard Lash, started working extra long days to help cover the vacancies. Hes 65 and is planning to retire next year.

Ive told my town manager that well do the best we can do. But, you know, I cant continue to work 120 hours a week to fill shifts, said Lash. Im getting old. And I just cant keep doing that.
Even former ECB Chairman Mario Draghi, now in his new role as Italys prime minister, cant convince other Italian banks to take on the worlds oldest lender.

After a brief honeymoon period, things are getting messy in Draghis Italy, as I reported last week. Almost 4 million workers  many of them in strategic sectors  have been suspended from their jobs for not taking the Covid-19 vaccine. According to The Guardian, the introduction of the no jab, no job rule triggered an instant increase in the number of bookings for first doses, but that number has already begun to tail off. In other words, not everyone is caving in to the governments demands.

Things are even messier this week as tensions have returned to the boil in the financial sector. Sunday saw the collapse of months-long negotiations over the sale of Monte dei Paschi di Siena (MPS), the worlds oldest still-standing (piu o meno) lender, to Unicredit, Italys one and only globally systemically important bank (G-SIB).

Despite the effort from both sides, UniCredit and the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF) announce that the negotiations pertaining to the potential acquisition of a defined perimeter of Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena will no longer continue, UniCredit and the Treasury said in a joint statement.

Given that Unicredit was the only domestic bank big enough to absorb MPS and apparently crazy enough to actually want to  at least until this Sunday  the breakdown in talks is a big blow to Italys technocratic government. In August, Draghis Economy Minister Daniele Franco said that a deal was as good as guaranteed. Now he has some serious explaining to do. The Draghi government has until December 31 to offload its 64% stake in the bank under conditions set by the European conditions. Barring a last-minute yuletide miracle, that is not going to happen and Draghi will have to ask for an extension.

Negotiations were always going to be fraught, given the parlous state of MPS finances (more on that later) and Unicredits much stronger negotiating position. But so much is at stake that both sides seemed to be making every effort to sew up a deal.

In December 2020, the government approved tax incentives for bank mergers which would entail a 2.3 billion benefit for an MPS buyer. To facilitate negotiations, Pier Carlo Padoan, Italys Minister of Finance and Economy at the time of MPS 2017 bailout, appointed Chairman of Unicredit. When Unicredits then-CEO Jean Paul Mustier refused to give his blessing to the merger, he was shown the door. His replacement was Andrea Orcel, a high-profile deal maker who, as luck would have it, had advised MPS on its disastrous 2007 merger with Antonveneta, which was one of the prime causes of MPS downfall.

Then, in February this year, Italian president Sergio Mattarella handpicked Mario Draghi to lead a technocratic government of experts. One of Draghis top briefs was to complete the governments sale of MPS. But it seems that even he cant make that happen.

Negotiations apparently hit the rocks after UniCredit refused to accept anything less than 8.5 billion in public funds for taking MPS off the governments hands, according to the Corriere della Sera newspaper. Unicredit was also not willing to take on any of MPS impaired loans or sacrifice any of its own capital in the tie-up. It also wanted complete protection from legal liability in any present or future lawsuits against MPS. In short, it wanted all gain, no pain.

For its part, the ministry was reportedly unwilling to spend more than 5 billion. And that included fees covering impaired loans and the forced redundancy of around 7,000 MPS employees. The deal also faced stiff opposition from local Democratic Party politicians and unions.

The fate of MPS does not seem to be very different from that of (national airline) Alitalia, which was finally put out of its misery earlier this month, said the newspaper Stampa. No one other than the state seems willing to take on its inefficiencies.

But theres an important difference between the two. Unlike MPS, Alitalia is not a bank whose disorderly collapse has the potential to unleash all sorts of financial shock waves, not only across Italy but Europe as a whole. Winding up MPS will be a lot more complex and dangerous than winding up Alitalia. The bank is still significantly under-capitalized despite having received myriad capital injections, from both investors and the government. Heres a quick rundown of all the money it has burnt through over the past 13 years (courtesy of Reuters):

In January 2008, MPS announces a 5 billion rights issue, comprising: a 1 billion convertible financial instrument called Fresh 2008, which its safe to say did not remain fresh for long; 2 billion euros in subordinated, hybrid capital bonds; and a 1.95 billion bridge loan to fund the Antonveneta deal. In that deal, signed in November 2007, MPS bought the Italian regional lender Antonveneta from Santander for a whopping 9 billion in cash, just months after the Spanish bank had paid 6.6 billion for the same lender and months before the beginning of the global financial crisis.

In March 2009, MPS sells 1.9 billion in special bonds to Italys Treasury to buttress its finances. It wasnt enough.

In July 2011 MPS raises 2.15 billion euros in a rights issue ahead of European stress test results. Still not enough.

Two months later, the Bank of Italy extends 6 billion euros in emergency liquidity to MPS through repo deals as the euro zone sovereign debt crisis escalates.

In June 2012, MPS asks Italys Treasury to underwrite up to another 2 billion euros in more special bonds.

In October 2012, shareholders approve a 1 billion euro share issue aimed at new investors.

In June 2014, MPS raises 5 billion euros in a sharply discounted rights issue and repays the state 3.1 billion.

In November 2014, MPS announces plans to raise up to 2.5 billion euros more, after stress tests results.

In June 2015, MPS raises 3 billion euros in another cash call having upped the size of its rights issue after a 5.3 billion euro net loss for 2014 on record bad loan writedowns.

In July 2016, MPS announces a new 5 billion rights issue and plans to offload 28 billion euros in bad loans. Still not enough.

In July 2017, the ECB declares MPS solvent, which allows the EU Commission to clear the way for Italys government to bail out the lender. In return for 5.4 billion of public funds the government takes a 68% stake in the bank. Private investors  mainly other Italian banks  chip in a further 2.8 billion euros. Still not enough.

In August 2020, Italy sets aside a further 1.5 billion to tide MPS over as it works to meet a re-privatisation deadline.

That deadline is almost certainly not going to be met. Even if it is extended to mid-2022, it still probably wont be met. In the meantime, MPSs finances continue to deteriorate.

By the end of 2020, annual losses at the Tuscan bank had soared by more than 60% to 1.7 billion. The government will now need to request permission from Brussels to inject as much as 4 billion more of public funds into a bank that has barely turned a profit in the past decade. Its books are still crammed full with toxic assets at varying stages of decomposition. It also faces an estimated 10 billion in legal claims. In the ECBs latest stress tests, in July, MPS was one of only four banks out of 50 whose leverage ratio fell below the regulatory minimum of 3% and the only one to have its capital wiped out.

Finding a buyer for a lender in such fragile financial health is going to be a tall order, especially now that the only likely domestic candidate has withdrawn from contention. Of the few international banks that already have operations of any scale in Italy  BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank and Credit Agricole  none appears to have shown any interest. The only foreign entity that has is U.S. private equity fund Apollo Global Management Inc but that was back in February and it doesnt appear to have led anywhere.

An alternative, mentioned months ago by Italian newspaper La Repubblica, would involve the creation of a smaller, leaner MPS focused exclusively on the regions of Tuscany and Umbria where it would have 20% market share. Its NPLs would be taken on by the state-owned asset management units Amco and Fintecna. The plan would have the added advantage of avoiding drastic cuts to personnel while the rest of the branches in the Center and South would be sold to the best buyer.

But that will take time. Draghi will have to kick the can even further down the road, which he is more than capable of. The ECB and European Commission will almost certainly grant him more time. But money is arguably an even more important issue than time. Yet more public funds will have to be poured into the bottomless holes on MPS balance sheets, at a time that Italys public debt is already a whopping 155% of GDP. Junior bondholders may also end up sharing some of the pain. They are already enduring a fresh bout of volatility, reports Bloomberg, as some bonds yesterday plumbed lows not seen since March last year. And there is still no fix in sight.
My position with Nashville Post has evolved since 2000 when I began work with the now-defunct The City Paper. TCP became a Post sister pub in 2008 (when I began some Post work) and folded in 2013. I have worked mainly with the Post since late 2011.

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(Natural News) Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called for a special legislative session on Thursday, October 21, to put a ban on mask and vaccine mandates. The move is in response to the series of mandates imposed by President Joe Bidens administration.

The governor has had enough of the federal government running interference into state business. Were here to announce that we need to take action to protect Florida jobs, DeSantis said during a news conference at the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport.

The legislative proposals set by DeSantis include the provision of reemployment assistance for people who were fired due to their failure to comply with an employers vaccine mandate. A separate proposal seeks to give Floridians compensation if they develop an adverse reaction to the vaccine.

Another proposal seeks that employers who fire their workers solely based on the vaccine mandate would be prohibited from enforcing non-compete agreements against the employees. A provision would require employers to provide religious and health exemptions, and companies that fail to notify their employees about such exemptions would be held liable to lawsuits.

The press conference is the closest that DeSantis administration has come up to repudiate vaccine mandates. The idea that vaccine mandates are needed to create safe workplaces is a complete lie, and its continued to be repeated and you should know that its not at all backed up by science. The science says the complete opposite, and thats a fact, Floridas Surgeon General and Secretary of Health Dr. Joseph Ladapo said.

DeSantis said: We have a federal government trying to use the heavy hand of government to force these injections on a lot of folks who believe that decision should be theirs, their freedom of medical choice. Your right to earn a living should not be contingent on getting shots.

He added that it is the peoples responsibility to take a stand and fight against the unconstitutional mandates from the federal government.

DeSantis measures directly oppose Bidens mandates

Biden ordered the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) last month to create a rule requiring all private employers with over 100 employees to mandate vaccines or require weekly COVID-19 tests. According to officials, this rule could potentially affect nearly 80 million workers and businesses could face fines up to $14,000 per violation. (Related: Dallas-based Southwest Airlines to ignore state of Texas ban on vaccine mandates, setting up major legal fight.)

The rule is not yet in effect, but a large number of private companies have already mandated vaccines for their employees in anticipation of the rule.

Charles Heekin, an attorney from Charlotte County, said that the Florida Legislature could address the vaccine mandate by building its own right-to-work protection in the states Constitution.

Currently, Florida is an at-will employment state, where employers can fire, demote, hire, promote or discipline their employees for almost any or no reason at all. The strongest way out from the the vaccine mandates is through legislative action.

DeSantis signed an executive order in April that bans vaccine passports in the state. In May, he signed a bill that codified the ban. The law now prohibits businesses from requiring customers to prove their vaccination status while effectively prohibiting government entities in Florida from issuing such documents.

In Florida, your personal choice regarding vaccinations will be protected and no business or government entity will be able to deny you services based on your decision, DeSantis said before he signed the bill into law.

Meanwhile, Republicans in Texas, Wyoming and Nebraska are also considering statewide laws against vaccine mandates. A special session in Texas wrapped up on a bill backed by Governor Greg Abbott that would counter the federal vaccine mandate.

Lawmakers in Wyoming will be holding a special session next week to consider their own bills to block vaccine mandates. In Nebraska, Republicans still need more votes to trigger a special session to consider similar bills.

Get more news and updates regarding the COVID-19 situation at Pandemic.news.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

HeraldTribune.com
(Natural News) Fully vaccinated individuals made up the vast majority of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) deaths in Sweden and the United Kingdom in the last month, according to government data. This is in line with the rise in breakthrough cases and deaths in Western countries.

Swedens Public Health Agency reported earlier that of the 130 COVID-19 deaths between September 1-24, 70 percent are fully vaccinated.

Possible reasons for the increase in deaths include the diminishing effectiveness of the vaccine over time, the easing of restrictions and the surge of the delta strain.

Swedens cases numbers fell after health officials scaled back restrictions at the beginning of June, with no fatalities reported in the country throughout July and August. However, deaths began to climb by mid-September, when nearly 75 percent of Swedes older than 16 were fully vaccinated.

The recent surge in infections also led to the highest number of cases in senior care residents since February.

However, a new testing protocol announced by Swedish authorities may make breakthrough cases less of a factor in future reporting. Just days after the agency reported the spike in post-vaccination deaths, Swedens health agency announced that fully vaccinated individuals with symptoms will be exempt from testing requirements.

In the U.K., similar breakthrough surges were observed. A report by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) noted that most British COVID-19 deaths were also among the fully vaccinated, as were the hospitalizations.

Between September 6 and October 3, 70 percent of deadly COVID cases occurred in fully vaccinated individuals. There were 2,281 deaths in vaccinated individuals compared to the 611 in unvaccinated within 28 days of a positive test.

The COVID-19 fatalities among the fully vaccinated have shown a dramatic increase since August. Reports showed that there had been 600 COVID-19 deaths in the unvaccinated population between August 9 and September 5, while 1, 659 deaths were recorded in the fully vaccinated ones.

The latest figures also showed that vaccinated patients made up most of the COVID-19 hospitalization. There were 3,910 vaccinated patients admitted between September 6 and October 3 compared to 2,400 unvaccinated patients.

The rise in breakthrough cases in the U.K. reflects trends in other highly-vaccinated countries, including the United States. A presentation from the Department of Defense found that about 60 percent of elderly Medicare patients hospitalized for COVID-19 before August 7 were fully vaccinated.

Vermont reported that fully vaccinated individuals account for 76 percent of deaths from the coronavirus, while Maryland reported that more than 40 percent of recent virus-related deaths in the state came from fully vaccinated patients.

Public data also showed that many other countries are now struggling with COVID-19 breakthrough cases, including Australia where 36 of 49 nursing home residents who died from the virus were fully vaccinated. (Related: How CDC manipulated data to create pandemic of the unvaxxed narrative.)

Breakthrough cases happen for different reasons

The first Black U.S. secretary of state, Colin Powell, recently died from COVID-19 complications despite being fully vaccinated. Around 7,000 Americans also met the same fate. However, doctors still say that death in fully vaccinated individuals remains rare as they continue to push people to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

Breakthrough cases happen for different reasons in individuals, said infectious disease specialist and medical microbiologist Don Vinh. The delta variant is more infectious than previous variants of the virus, and it can account for some of the deaths. Immunity after vaccination may also wane over time. And some peoples immune systems are simply not strong enough.

There are a group of people who have either conditions or treatments for their conditions that compromised their immune system and prevent them from being able to even adequately respond to the vaccine to begin with, said Vinh, who works at McGill University Health Centre.

Elderly individuals, for instance, may have weaker reactions to the vaccine. Rod Russell, a professor of virology and immunology at Memorial University, said that older individuals are a cause of concern. We recognize now that antibody levels do decline. And then in older people, theres a chance that they may not be able to fight infection if they get it.

According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 85 percent of fully vaccinated Americans who died from COVID-19 were 65 or older.

Read more at Pandemic.news.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

RioTimesOnline.com

GlobalNews.ca

CDC.gov
(Natural News) Media outlets are attacking Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson of North Carolina for calling explicit images and lessons promoting transgenderism and LGBT activities in public schools in his state as filth.

(Article by Bob Unruh republished from WND.com)

But then they are blurring those images  apparently for not being appropriate for their audiences.

The video with the media blurring the images is found here.

And Robinson has explained that he was describing the images and lessons as filth, not any person or group of people, as activists have been claiming this week.

According to Just the News, it was back a few months when Robinson was speaking at Asbury Baptist Church in Seagrove, N.C., that he put the filth label on the lessons and images that sometimes are being used.

Theres no reason anybody anywhere in America should be telling any child about transgenderism, homosexuality, any of that filth. And yes, I called it filth. And if you dont like that I called it filth, come see me and Ill explain it to you, he said.

An organization that monitors conservatives then posted it online.

North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson says Christians must take control of public schools because children are being abused by being taught "filth": "There's no reason anybody anywhere in America should be telling any child about transgenderism, homosexuality, any of that filth." pic.twitter.com/aXjCPFKTs0  Right Wing Watch (@RightWingWatch) October 6, 2021

In an interview on the John Solomon Reports podcast, Robinson explained, My intent was to describe the material that is being presented to children in schools, and we have made that quite plain. Not only have we made it plain with our words, weve made it plain with written and visual examples. And so this whole argument that somehow that I was calling the LGBT community filth is just nonsense, not true.

While media outlets have launched a barrage of criticism against Robinson, one, WTVD, an ABC affiliate, while calling Robinsons comments homophobic, blurred the images about which he was concerned.

Under attack from state and federal officials both, Robinson held a press conference to reveal images from Gender Queer, which is a book that has sexually graphic images.

These materials do not belong in the classroom, the hallways or the libraries, he said.

Then in WTVDs report, the station blurred out the entire screen from which Robinson showed the pictures, Just the News reported.

Robinson said he has no plans to resign, as Democrats and LGBT activists have demanded.

We are not going to stop until the schools of North Carolina are safe from this kind of filth, he said.

Read more at: WND.com
(Natural News) A U.S. senator from Kansas is warning that military members who refuse to follow the Pentagons order to take a COVID-19 vaccine run the risk of being kicked out of the service with a dishonorable discharge, which will endanger their rights including voting and owning firearms.

The White House wants to give servicemembers a dishonorable discharge if theyre separated because of refusing the vaccine. [Americans must] understand the significance of a dishonorable discharge, Sen. Roger Marshall, a Republican, warned in an interview with Breitbart Radio.

Those folks will be treated as felons. Theyll never be able to get a job, again. They lose their Second Amendment. In some states, they wont be able to vote, again. They lose their VA benefits, access to the VA hospitals, retirement plans, he added.

Breitbart  Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS)  October 21, 2021

Getting a dishonorable discharge may be the worst checkmark you can get in your life, and you talk about the Scarlet Letter, thats what it ends up being. Ive been told 10 [to] 20 percent of our servicemen are still not vaccinated, he added, going on to point out that the Biden regime is refusing to acknowledge that anyone who has had the virus and recovered has better natural immunity than they would otherwise have if they took a vaccine.

This is a policy out of a White House that says, One size has to fit all. Theres no exception. It just doesnt make sense. Weve never asked people  military folks, especially  to get a vaccine for something theyre already immune to and something that doesnt affect them, for the most part, he continued.

I encourage people to get their vaccines, but its an individual choice and certainly its not right for everybody, Marshall added.

The Kansas Republican joined Sens. Ted Cruz (R-TX), James Lankford (R-OK), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) in legislation that would bar the Pentagon from issuing a dishonorable discharge to military personnel who refused to take the vaccine.

As a physician and veteran who is confident that the vaccine has saved countless lives, I believe vaccinating our servicemembers against COVID-19 is an important effort; however, whether or not to receive the vaccine should be a personal choice between an individual and their doctor, Marshall said in September.

Servicemembers who refuse to get vaccinated, and are subsequently separated from the service, should not receive anything other than an honorable discharge. There is no question about it: American heroes should not be treated as felons because of their personal medical choices, the senator added.

Just last week, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) joined in the call to protect servicemembers from reprisals by the Biden Defense Department for refusing to take a vaccine or for seeking a vaccine exemption.

The service members were rightly praised for serving during a pandemic and through dangerous missions. But, now theyre being forced out, he said.

These stories from our armed forces are tragic. I returned to the Senate floor today to help. pic.twitter.com/ZnEFWEWzOz  Mike Lee (@SenMikeLee) October 20, 2021

Local media outlet KSL adds:

On Aug. 25, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin directed U.S. military departments to begin administering the vaccine to military members who fall under the authority of the Department of Defense. They include active-duty members of the military, the Ready Reserve, and members of the National Guard.

But different branches of the military do not share similar deadlines for inoculation against COVID-19 (as each military branch was given autonomy when deciding a deadline for inoculation, as reported by US News and World Report).

According to Military.com, active-duty Air Force and Space Force troops have until Nov. 2nd to get vaccinated; Marines and sailors have a deadline of Nov. 28; and the Army has until Dec. 15. Army National Guard and Reserve have until June 30, 2022, to get vaccinated, while Air Guard and Reserve members have until Dec. 2.

Clearly, the Biden regime is trying to cripple our military; the question is, why would an American president do that?

Sources include:

Military.com

KSLNewsradio.com

Breitbart.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) White House press secretary Jen Psaki was not willing to elaborate Tuesday on why Democrats $3.5 trillion Build Back Better bill would not increase the national debt.

(Article by Randy DeSoto republished from WesternJournal.com)

Of course, the price tag is up in the air as Democrats seek a top line that moderate Democratic Sens. Joe Manchin and Krysten Sinema are willing to stomach, but the essence of the legislation has remained the same: starting a bunch of new open-ended entitlement programs.

Some big-ticket items include taxpayer-funded pre-K, rental assistance payments, free community college, paid family and sick leave, expanded health care benefits, enhanced child tax credits and climate change initiatives.

Does the president still believe that Build Back Better will not add a dime to the national debt? a reporter asked Psaki during a Tuesday White House briefing.

Correct. It wont, she responded.

Why should Americans believe that? the reporter followed up.

Because it wont, Psaki answered before trying to move on to another question.

Reporter: "Does the president still believe that Build Back Better will not add a dime to the national debt?" Psaki: "Correct. It Won't." Reporter: "Why should Americans believe that?" Psaki: "Because it won't." pic.twitter.com/QB86LDjhPc  Daily Caller (@DailyCaller) October 19, 2021

The reporter understandably wasnt ready to accept Psakis glib response without at least one more pass at the topic.

[President Joe Biden] says he wants to get more taxes in, he said. What if the economy goes sour? Lots of things can happen. Youre going to tell  future generations not even born yet that theyre not on the hook for this? Is that right?

Thats right, and hopefully youll report accurate information yourself, Psaki said.

Well, heres some accurate information: Even the $3.5 trillion price tag is far less than the legislation is likely to cost.

The Committee for a Responsible Federal Government estimated the true cost of the bill would be between $5 trillion and $5.5 trillion over the next ten years, because some programs are only partially funded by the legislation.

As the reporter hinted in his exchange with Psaki, one problem in determining whether the bill is paid for is that it counts on new revenue generated by taxing corporations and the rich more heavily.

However, hiking the corporate tax rate to the levels Democrats are proposing would make the U.S. one of the highest-taxed countries in the world, which is likely to hurt economic and job growth.

Americas combined average federal and state corporate income tax would be nearly 6 percent higher than Chinas 25 percent rate.

Under the House tax plan, the U.S. would have the third-highest corporate rate in the industrialized world, behind only Colombia and Portugal: https://t.co/o7UUMh0P5J pic.twitter.com/JxSG1514zg  Tax Foundation (@TaxFoundation) September 22, 2021

Psaki has no idea whether the federal debt will increase if the $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill is passed into law. Strong evidence suggests it will likely go up by trillions.

Theres some accurate reporting for you, Ms. Psaki.

Read more at: WesternJournal.com
(Natural News) Dan Goure and David T. Pyne have raised valid questions about how well the US would fare in a military conflict with Russia and China. Not well they conclude. See:

https://breakingdefense.com/2021/10/with-all-eyes-on-china-us-army-must-ensure-its-prepared-to-deter-russia-in-europe/

https://nationalinterest.org/feature/counter-russia-and-china-make-spheres-influence-great-again-194982

https://nationalinterest.org/feature/counter-russia-and-china-make-spheres-influence-great-again-194982

(Article by Paul Craig Roberts republished from PaulCraigRoberts.org)

Possibly the articles by Dan Goure and David T. Pyne are sincere concerns of military analysts worried about Washintons unrealistic hubris. Also possibly Goure and Pyne are consultants to defense firms and are lobbying for an even larger military budget. Nevertheless, both are correct that Washington is no match for Russia and China and is spread too thin in its ambitions to be a match for anyone. Nevertheless, the real military problem for the US is completely different from what they think.

Goure is concerned that Washingtons eyes are too focused on China to the neglect of Russias threat to Europe. He doesnt say why he thinks Russia would invade Europe. The Kremlin has made it clear that Russia has no territorial intentions. Remember, Washington and Israel armed and trained the military of the former Russian province of Georgia and sent them to invade South Ossetia, provoking in response the lightening Russian conquest of Georgia. Did Russia reincorporate its former province back into its federation? No. Having taught the Georgians a lesson, the Kremlin withdrew. Remember, Ukraine attacked the Russian population in the Donbas region in Eastern Ukraine, and the Donetsk and Luhansk peoples requested Putin to reincorporate their territory into Russia where the lands historically resided. There was zero possibility of Ukraine, US, and NATO blocking the reincorporation of Russian territory into Russia, but the Kremlin passed on the land grant. If the Kremlin does not want its own former provinces back, why would Russia burden itself with Eastern and Western Europe? Goure doesnt say.

Pyne wonders why Washington creates military difficulties for itself by provocative actions that drive Russia and China together. Unable to deal with them individually, why double the unmanageable load? He suggests that Washington give up its unattainable goal of world hegemony and make a spheres of influence deal with Russia and China. This is a rational and intelligent recommendation, but it is unrealistic. The military/security complex will not give up the two enemies necessary for the continuation of the massive budget that is its source of profit and power.

Although Goure identifies a problem and Pyne comes up with a solution, neither understands that the worst threat the US faces is the demoralization of the US Army, Navy, Marines, and Air Force by the Biden regime. A demoralized military with broken morale is not a constraint on the disciplined, high morale forces of Russia and China. Yet in Bidens woke America, the real problem cannot be acknowledged. The US military is being destroyed, and not even a peep from the Republican opposition.

The US military is in a state of rapid decline. The huge budget goes largely into cost overruns or profits for the armaments industry and results in costly but second class weapon systems. The main problem, however, is the morale of US troops.

The white male troops, the backbone of the Army, Air Force, and Navy are forced to take racial sensitivity training, that is, they are indoctrinated that they are racists and misogynists and have to reconsider their alleged attitudes toward preferred minorities and females. This makes it difficult for white officers to discipline black and female troops. Blacks can claim racism, and women can allege sexual harassment.

Simultaneously, promotions for white men are on hold for the purpose of achieving balance by promoting blacks and women. In other words, promotions are not on the basis of merit but on the basis of race and gender. White male troops are unlikely to respect officers promoted for these reasons.

On this demoralized military force the Biden regime is now imposing mandatory vaccination with a mRNA vaccine that does not provide protection from the virus but does release the spike pathogen into the body, causing serious injury and death in many instances and making the vaccinated more susceptible to Covid. The evidence is in and is conclusivethe vaccine is more dangerous to the young than is the Covid virus. The troops who are aware of the facts are very resentful of the policy. Officers have the option of resigning and leaving the service, but the men in the ranks face court martial if they refuse the dangerous vaccine. The impact on morale is devastating.

The black US Secretary of Defense, a quota-hire and a quota-promotion, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who told his Chinese counterpart that he would give him advance warning of an American attack, are despised by the troops, who believe the Biden regime has betrayed the US military.

The obvious conclusion is that, the quality of weapon systems aside, such a demoralized military has no capability of fighting disciplined forces of good morale. Washington has no possibility of fighting both Russia and China together and would be quickly defeated by either separately.

My own opinion is that neither Russia nor China intend to attack the US. Much less does Russia want responsibility for Eastern Europe. Russia and China can be provoked into becoming military threats by Washingtons aggressive policies. When Washington identifies Russia and China as threats, Washington means that the rise of the two countries has ended Washingtons short-term unipolar rule. The threat that Washington is concerned about is the loss of US hegemony.

With Washington in the process of violating its one China agreement by encouraging Taiwans independence, Yalta 2.0 is nothing but academic rhetoric.

Americans have been brainwashed for decades about the Communist threat, which is associated with Russia and China. The danger is an indoctrinated population combined with Washingtons recklessness, such as putting military advisers in Taiwan, can result in a provocation that is too big for the provoked country to ignore. So far both Russia and China have ignored provocations and insults that in past times might have resulted in war. I have expressed my concerns that whereas Russia and Chinas responsible behavior of refusing to respond to provocations with provocations has maintained peace, it runs the risk of causing more provocations. Sooner or later one will be too large to ignore.

Read more at: PaulCraigRoberts.org
(Natural News) The American Medical Association (AMA) wants people to die from the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19).

The reason we can safely say this is that the trade group is working overtime to restrict Americans access to hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and ivermectin, two safe, effective and inexpensive early treatment remedies for the Chinese Virus.

Instead of recognizing that each individual has the God-given right to choose what goes into his body, the AMA is taking a position of medical fascism that does not even recognize the right of doctors to prescribe whatever medications they see fit for their patients.

In 1996, ivermectin was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in humans. Today, ivermectin is off-patent and available generically for treating a variety of pathologies.

Because using ivermectin breaks the plandemic script, however  everyone is supposed to just mask up and get vaccinated, they tell us  the AMA is trying to make it impossible to get (except for the black market, perhaps).

The American Medical Association (which represents only 12% of practicing physicians and receives more money from the federal government than from its waning membership dues) and two national pharmacy associations (which receive corporate support from COVID-19 vaccine manufacturers, Pfizer, AstraZeneca and Johnson & Johnson) have decided ivermectin should not be used to treat this virus despite widespread successful treatment with this drug (discovered in the late 1970s and used in humans since 1988), write Robert Marshall and Dr. Bernard, Pegis, M.D., for LifeSiteNews.

Ivermectin is currently available over the counter in many countries. If American drugstores implement this dangerous policy, many lives will be lost.

Hypocritical AMA supported off-label prescription of drugs as recently as 2020

In a September 1 press release, the AMA, along with the American Pharmacists Association (APHA) and the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP), explained that they strongly oppose the ordering, prescribing, or dispensing of ivermectin to prevent or treat COVID-19 outside of a clinical trial.

We are alarmed by reports that outpatient prescribing for and dispensing of ivermectin have increased 24-fold since before the pandemic and increased exponentially over the past few months, that announcement further read.

Even though there are almost no risks associated with taking ivermectin as normally prescribed, the AMA, the APHA and the ASHP are freaking out about the fact that some doctors are administering it to their sick patients.

Off-label prescription of pharmaceuticals has been common practice for many decades. Now that covid is here and being highly politicized by the left, however, it is suddenly a mortal sin in the eyes of the medical establishment to even just try using ivermectin for treating Chinese Germs.

Just prior to when the Fauci Flu made its appearance, the AMA actually issued an official policy guideline confirming that it offers strong support for the off-label prescription of pharmaceuticals whenever a doctor deems that it may be helpful.

Our AMA confirms its strong support for the autonomous clinical decision-making authority of a physician and that a physician may lawfully use an FDA approved drug product or medical device for an off-label indication when such use is based upon sound scientific evidence or sound medical opinion, the organization confirmed at the time.

Now that the Biden regime wants everyone to get vaccinated, though, the AMA is doing everything possible to restrict access to ivermectin, which quite frankly would have put an end to this fake pandemic a long, long time ago.

Jesus was severely criticized for healing a blind man on the Sabbath (John 9:13-30), LifeSiteNews reported.

Today, practicing physicians who save lives using drug therapy are ostracized. Mainstream medicine appears to be rejecting efforts to combat COVID-19 with drugs in favor of experimental mRNA vaccines.'

As the medical establishment continues its assault on safe and effective remedies for the Wuhan Flu, we will keep you informed about the latest at Fascism.news.

Sources for this article include:

LifeSiteNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) U.S. officials are claiming that communist China is up to no good with efforts to harvest the genetic data of Americans in order to produce new race-specific bioweapons.

The National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) issued a new report claiming that biotechnology can be used by those with the know-how to create virulent pathogens that can target our food supply or even the human population.

The powerful technologies harnessed by the bioeconomy also can lead to national security and economic vulnerabilities, the report goes on to suggest.

Building upon previous warnings from the NCSC, this latest report pegs China as an existential threat to the United States. It raises fresh concerns about the true purpose of the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) testing kits that have been forced on Americans since early 2020.

Would you want your DNA or other healthcare data going to an authoritarian regime with a record of exploiting DNA for repression and surveillance? the report asks.

For years, the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) has collected large healthcare data sets from the U.S. and nations around the globe, through both legal and illegal means, for purposes only it can control.

The PRC, the report goes on to claim, has been engaged in the mass collection of DNA from the Chinese. The regime has used this data to carry out human rights abuses against domestic minority groups and support state surveillance, it says. (RELATED: Read more about how China abuses Uyghur Muslims and other minorities in concentration camps.)

China is heavily invested in harvesting genetic data on its foreign enemies

China has moved far outside its borders to collect healthcare data on Americans, the report claims, which poses risks to not just We the People but also the economic and national security of the [United States].

Michael Orlando, the acting director of the counterintelligence center, an arm of the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI), says that Chinas extensive track record of stealing whatever it wants should serve as a warning to everyone, everywhere.

These technologies are critical and we cannot let what happened to other industries happen here, Orlando is quoted as saying.

According to Edward You, a national counterintelligence officer for emerging and disruptive technologies, China is currently attempting to construct the worlds largest database of medical, health and genetic data.

Its all about the data, You says. There are national security implications we have to understand.

A Chinese corporate giant known as BGI reportedly developed a neonatal genetic test that the regime uses to harvest data from millions of people around the world. You warns that some of these data cover Americans and could easily be transferred to the Chinese government.

A consumer genetics company called WuXi has invested in this operation, as well as in the DNA testing corporation 23andMe. As reported by Natural News, 23andMe was caught verifying lizard DNA as having come from Ashkenazi Jews.

They are developing the worlds largest bio database, You says about China and its various corporate partners. Once they have access to your genetic data, its not something you can change like a pin code.

Ancestry schemes are being used to target genetic vulnerabilities in a population

Jacquie Cooke Haggarty, the deputy general counsel of WuXi, issued a statement downplaying Yous warnings. She says that no data has been shared thus far, and that WuXis investment in the technology represents just one percent of the company.

All of our testing is performed and has always been performed in U.S.-based laboratories, she insists.

Even so, the NCSC report speaks for itself  assuming what it contains is actually true. It reveals how genetic data can be used by malicious actors to build bioweapons that capitalize on the genetic vulnerabilities in a population.

Large genetic databases that allow peoples ancestry to be revealed and crimes to be solved also can be misused for surveillance and societal repression, it says.

The PRC has a documented history of exploiting DNA for genetic surveillance and societal control of minority populations in Xinjiang, China, the NCSCs earlier report adds.

Chinas access to U.S. healthcare and genomic data poses serious privacy and national security risks to the U.S.

With that said, it is probably smart to be extremely wary of all at-home ancestry testing kits, which more than likely are Chinese data-harvesting kits in disguise.

Designer viruses, courtesy of the CCP, wrote one Natural News commenter, CCP of course referring to the Chinese Communist Party.

It was reported a long time ago that with a specific persons genome, or a specific ethnic / racial stock, specific bioweapons were possible for specific people or groups of people, and that such a thing could be put in something like a common cold virus and eventually lead to the death of the target while not affecting even anyone else, wrote another.

The latest news about communist China can be found at CommunistChina.news.

Sources for this article include:

WesternJournal.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) A 64-year-old man by the name of William Aslaksen was arrested over the weekend after he went maniacal and plowed his car straight into a rally of people opposing Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccine mandates.

The incident occurred Saturday afternoon in Palmdale, located near Los Angeles, resulting in at least one person, a woman, becoming injured. The woman, who has not been identified, was left injured but stable, according to authorities.

Aslaksen reportedly went crazy after getting into a conversation with one of the protesters who attempted to reason with him about how there should always be freedom of choice when it comes to pharmaceutical intervention. This caused Aslaksen to snap and drive his car up the sidewalk and into the crowd where the protesters were standing.

Inspired by the Biden regimes call to save lives through Chinese Virus vaccination, Aslaksen attempted to end a few unvaccinated lives to help flatten the curve.

Within an hour and a half of the incident, Aslaksen was arrested by police officers and taken into custody on suspicion of felony assault. He is being held on $50,000 bail and is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday morning.

Mainstream media remains mostly silent about Aslaksens attempted murder of health freedom advocates

Unlike the Charlottesville incident from a few years back, this attempt at mass murder by a deranged Branch Covidian is barely getting a mention in the mainstream media.

The few news outlets that are reporting on it are trying to minimize its seriousness. The Daily Beast, for instance, which is about as far-left as they come, published a headline that makes it sounds as though Asleksen accidentally veer[ed] into and anti-vax mandate protest.

Had this been the other way around and an anti-vaxxer plowed a vehicle in a pro-vaccine rally, you can bet your bottom dollar that the Beast would have been crying racism, white supremacy and every other pejorative buzzword under the sun.

NBC Los Angeles reported that driver hits crowd at vaccine mandate rally, again making it sound as though it was just some fluke that was not intentional.

A handful of other local news outlets made minor mentions of the incident, but beyond that there is no other mention of Aslaksens attempted murder of anti-vaxxers in either the national or global news pipeline.

Compared to the worldwide meltdown that occurred post-Charlottesville, the reporting on this incident has been basically non-existent. Since it fails to fit the narrative that pro-vaxxers love humanity and want nothing more than to save lives, it is being mostly buried.

Hilariously, The Legal Advocate reported that Aslaksen engaged in road rage, which is a form of reckless driving, as he plowed his vehicle up the sidewalk in an attempt to harm protesters.

The report goes on to suggest that road rage is common and that accident attorneys should get involved to protect the rights of victims. Nowhere does it mention a hate crime, which is surely what this would have been dubbed had things been the other way around.

If the media was honest, it would be calling Aslaksen an alt-left extremist and chastising the Biden regime for stoking the flames of hatred among Branch Covidians towards the unvaccinated.

Remember: This is exactly what they did post-Charlottesville by blaming Donald Trump for that incident of road rage. The media also falsely dubbed all conservatives as alt-right after that incident, even though it was one person who, just like Aslaksen, went postal due to political programming.

The latest news about Chinese Virus insanity can be found at VaccineJihad.com

Sources for this article include:

NBCNews.com

Archive.md

NaturalNews.com

NBCLosAngeles.com

TheLegalAdvocate.com
(Natural News) Two pork industry experts have laid out the effects of labor shortages on the supply chain, saying that vaccine mandates by the Biden administration only add fuel to the fire. If the issues are not resolved soon, they warn that everything will collapse just like Jenga blocks.

Dennis DiPietre and Lance Mulberry made this warning in an Oct. 21 piece for AgWeb. They said some groceries could only fulfill 70 percent of orders for home delivery. That would be a deal-breaker in non-COVID times, the two noted.

They also talked about a major supplier of ham and bacon facing challenges over the quality and quantity of the raw material they process. But DiPietre and Mulberry noted that the supplier has a more vexing issue  a chronic reduction in its workforce.

The supplier has upped starting salaries by 50 percent, yet is still 25 percent short on a full workforce. The higher-than-normal salaries have raised costs and brought in people who need to be trained, delaying fully competent and efficient execution of the plant. Unfortunately, many of them attracted initially to the high-sounding hourly rate decide this isnt for them and leave sometime soon after training. [This forces] the whole process to start all over again, they wrote.

DiPietre and Mulberry also talked about how unemployment benefits are preventing people from returning to the workforce. Too generous unemployment payments and cash giveaways are keeping people from returning to work. (Related: Over 7M Americans to lose unemployment benefits after Labor Day.)

Their sentiments were aligned with that of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce (USCC). In a June 8 statement, the chamber urged state governors to end the federal $300 weekly unemployment benefit for their residents.

We are seeing an increasing number of businesses turning down work and only partially reopening because they cant find enough workers, USCC Executive Vice President and Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley said.

Vaccine mandates worsen the labor shortage

DiPietre and Mulberry elaborated on the effects of Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine mandates on the ongoing labor shortage. They pointed out that newly-mandated COVID-19 vaccination passports and forced vaccinations in different sectors have undermined the countrys current workforce.

Today, there are substantial percentages (30 percent to 60 percent) of airline pilots, military personnel, hospital and clinic nurses and doctors, teachers, police, firefighters, truck drivers, utility workers and federal government workers  who are refusing vaccination and, therefore, have become subject to termination, they wrote.

It is estimated in the military that 80 percent to 90 percent of special forces personnel are refusing vaccination and are subject to discharge. The pork industry experts added that the firings have begun and will continue through Thanksgiving. (Related: National security alert: Thousands of U.S. Special Forces and combat troops discharged as total force vaccination decimates military readiness.)

Jeffrey Prather, the host of Prather Point on Brighteon.TV, confirmed the compulsory vaccination in the armed forces. During the Oct. 15 episode of his program, he cited an administrative memo from the Navy requiring both active and reserve personnel to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Active-duty members must complete their vaccination not later than Nov. 28 while reservists must complete theirs not later than Dec. 28.

The Navy memo also stated that service members declining the injection shall be processed for administrative separation. Senior Navy leaders refusing the vaccine will be given five days to perform corrective action, with non-compliant officers to be relieved and discharged.

DiPietre and Mulberry ultimately warned: Politicians at the federal level and in some states are playing a giant Jenga game with the integrated supply chains and national defense of this nation. You pull out the wrong piece and the whole system collapses. When [the supply chain issues morph] into critical shortages of food products, expect law and order to erode quickly.

Collapse.news has more articles about the ongoing labor shortages and how they impact the bigger supply chain.

Sources include:

AgWeb.com

USChamber.com

Brighteon.com
(Natural News) A bipartisan group of lawmakers is demanding answers about why Tony Fauci adjudicated sick experiments on drugged-up puppies that involved torturing them to death with parasites.

According to a report from the White Coat Waste Project, Fauci shipped part of a $375,800 grant to a lab in Tunisia that drug[ged] beagles and lock[ed] their heads in mesh cages filled with hungry sand flies so that the insects could eat them alive.

They also locked beagles alone in cages in the desert overnight for nine consecutive nights to use them as bait to attract infectious sand flies, the report further explained.

This nonprofit organization was among the first to point out that American tax dollars were being funneled by Fauci into controversial gain-of-function research at the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV), which is where the Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) is now believed to have emerged.

Most of the bipartisan lawmaker group is Republican, but there are a few Democrats who are also concerned about this horrific abuse of animals by Fauci, who has proven himself to be a monster with no limit to the horrors he is willing to inflict on living beings.

According to the White Coat Waste Project, there is no legal requirement that any pharmaceutical drugs be tested on dogs, so it wants to know why Fauci provisioned this type of testing on innocent animals who probably trusted their paid murderers before they were tortured to death, thanks to Fauci.

The group says that at least 44 beagle puppies were abused and killed in this manner. Some of them also had their vocal cords removed, allegedly so the scientists experimenting on them would not have to listen to incessant barking.

Where are all the liberals who love animals, and why arent they speaking out against Fauci for committing animal cruelty?

For sending out mean tweets, Donald Trump faced a barrage of criticism from the media for his cruelty. But now that it is Fauci who is being exposed for torturing and killing animals with American tax dollars, the media is completely silent  the mainstream media, anyway.

The independent media, along with dozens of members of Congress, are calling for Faucis head on a platter, essentially. Fauci himself of course denies any wrongdoing, just as he always does when confronted with the truth about himself.

Snopes, of course, is already attempting to debunk the truth claiming that it is unclear whether Dr. [sic] Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) at NIH, personally approved the project.

One commenter at Zero Hedge suggested that perhaps Fauci could be used for similar experiments, though the scientists should leave the vocal cords intact, if you catch the drift.

I think America has found its Dr. Mengele, wrote another. I would normally add that hes one sick puppy, but that would be inappropriate in this circumstance.

In response to this, another demeaned Fauci to the status of Walmart Mengele, asking when the world is going to demand that he finally be held to account for his crimes against humanity, as well as the new revelation that Fauci has committed crimes against innocent animals.

Mengele Fauci bio-weapons have gone far enough, this same person wrote. Put him in a cell and drag him out every day into court and grill him about everything. Over and over until the truth comes out.

Still another pointed out that during the AIDS scare, Fauci patented biological vaccine delivery systems that were paid for once again by American taxpayers. Faucis alleged response to this unethical behavior was supposedly that well, someone had to own the patent.

The latest news about the cruelty of Fauci can be found at MedicalExperiments.news

Sources for this article include:

ZeroHedge.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) A 17-year-old girl is facing the prospect of never walking again in yet another unnecessary, unfortunate maiming of a child.

(Article republished from TheCOVIDBlog.com)

Ms. Jasmine Comeau received her first Pfizer mRNA injection sometime in mid-August. She suffered no apparent adverse effects. There appears to be a mandate in New Brunswick requiring anyone accessing indoor organized group recreational sports, classes and activities to show a vaccine passport. All children turning age 12 by the end of 2021 are eligible for the injections in New Brunswick, according to CBC News.

Jasmine received the second injection on September 22. She immediately experienced flu-like symptoms and a choking reaction, according to her father, Andre Comeau. Jasmines parents live apart. Her mother, Diane Siemens, is a nurse, re-married, and appears to have majority custody. Andre has consistently posted anti-vaxx content on Facebook since at least April. He acknowledged the post-AstraZeneca death of Mrs. Lisa Stonehouse on May 7, and the post-Moderna neurological adverse effects of Mr. Fred Pye on July 15. Both were/are Canadian.

Jasmine lost feeling in both her legs and feet within four days after the second injection. She also suffered the dreaded pins and needles feeling throughout her body, along with full-body excruciating pain. She was admitted to Horizons Miramichi Regional Hospital, where she spent four days undergoing a battery of tests. Doctor discharged Jasmine with a walker and no explanation as to her condition.

Jasmine loses use of her left leg

The pain intensified and by October 1, Jasmine was unable to move around by herself even with the walker. Her left leg was essentially paralyzed. Jasmine was re-admitted to Miramachi and placed in a wheelchair. She was transferred to Saint John Regional Hospital the next day. Doctors believed it was a good idea to give her morphine for the pain. Jasmine had a violent reaction to the powerful drug. After eight days of tests, she was discharged again with no real answers. Doctors prescribed high-dose gabapentin, an anti-epilepctic and pain killing medication with a slew of deadly side effects.

Mr. Comeau elegantly summed up the entire situation:

The specialist says she will recover but will take months even a year or more of intense therapy. How can they say that, when they have no idea when the mRNA shot will stop making your cells produce spike proteins that obviously causing inflammation and pain. This is all new to them.

Mrs. Siemens, Jasmine mother, essentially described her daughters condition as Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) without actually saying those exact words.

The only thing Jasmine and her family know for sure is that the Pfizer mRNA injections caused her condition. Jasmine received the shots apparently so she could go to in-person classes for her senior year in high school. She now does all school work from a hospital bed in her mothers home that costs $200 per month to rent.

Jasmine has a long road ahead, according to Mrs. Siemens. But this is literally uncharted territory for doctors. Their guess as far as Jasmine ever walking again is as good as mine, as a journalist with no medical training (except for an EMT course many years ago). Weve reached out to Mr. Comeau and will update if/when we hear back from him.

Parents killing their kids

None of these stories are fun to write. But the ones involving children are gut-wrenching and sad. Little Maddie DeGaray, the 13-year-old from Ohio, has become the literal poster child for maimed, post-injection children. But at least shes still alive with a snowball chance in hell of recovery. Jacob Clynick is the 13-year-old Michigan boy who died three days after his second Pfizer mRNA injection. Azorean Tatum is a 16-year-old Tennessee boy who died within days after his Pfizer injections.

The only hope for kids in this dystopian COVID vaxx era is their parents. Unfortunately most parents are failing their most basic duty  to protect their babies. We have at least three active cases over at COVID Legal USA where were assisting law firms with cases of divorced parents fighting over these injections. One parent is always a vaxx zealot who cannot see past mainstream media propaganda. The other is a critical thinker fighting against both the opposing parent and the compromised legal system.

Its getting increasingly difficult to give these parents passes. Its even worse with the pregnant women receiving these injections, and their babies dying (coincidentally of course) in stillbirths or worse. Bottom line is that parents are accountable for their childrens health and safety. What side of history will you, as a mother or father, be on?

Stay vigilant and protect your friends and loved ones.

Read more at: TheCOVIDBlog.com
(Natural News) A national school board organization that likened parents to domestic terrorists in appealing to the Biden regime for assistance in probing their behavior at meetings has apologized after it was reported officials colluded with the White House.

As you all know, there has been extensive media and other attention recently around our letter to President Biden regarding threats and acts of violence against school board members, the National School Boards Association wrote in a memo published late last week.

On behalf of NSBA, we regret and apologize for the letter, the NSBA said, noting that there was no justification for some of the language included in the letter.

The American Wire noted further:

The initial letter was addressed specifically to Biden and sought his immediate assistance for members of local school boards, teachers, and students from alleged threats of violence and intimidation from parents upset about divisive critical race theory curriculum as well as sexually inappropriate books in school libraries, among other issues.

Americas public schools and its education leaders are under an immediate threat. The National School Boards Association (NSBA) respectfully asks for federal law enforcement and other assistance to deal with the growing number of threats of violence and acts of intimidation occurring across the nation, the letter from NSBA President Viola Garcia and NSBA interim Executive Director and CEO Chip Slaven began.

Local school board members want to hear from their communities on important issues and that must be at the forefront of good school board governance and promotion of free speech. However, there also must be safeguards in place to protect public schools and dedicated education leaders as they do their jobs, the letter, sent in late September, added.

The officials said immediate assistance is required to protect our students, school board members, and educators who are susceptible to acts of violence affecting interstate commerce because of threats to their districts, families, and personal safety.

As these acts of malice, violence, and threats against public school officials have increased, the classification of these heinous actions could be the equivalent to a form of domestic terrorism and hate crimes, they added.

In response, Attorney General Merrick Garland tasked U.S. attorneys and the FBI with working alongside local law enforcement to investigate the actions of parents who have increasingly turned up at school board meetings around the country pushing back on the left-wing garbage being spoon-fed to their children such as transgenderism, critical race theory and sexually explicitly books and materials.

Threats against public servants are not only illegal, they run counter to our nations core values, said Garland in a statement. Those who dedicate their time and energy to ensuring that our children receive a proper education in a safe environment deserve to be able to do their work without fear for their safety.

But as it turns out, the organization was in cahoots with White House officials, according to emails seen by the Washington Free Beacon:

The emails, obtained by Parents Defending Education through public records requests and reviewed by the Washington Free Beacon, reveal that the National School Board Associations president and CEO sent the letter to Biden on Sept. 29 without approval from the organizations board. The letter said that the acts of some parents at school board meetings across the country could be considered a form of domestic terrorism and hate crimes.

The emails also show that the White House asked the association for examples of threats against school board members days before Attorney General Merrick Garland created a task force of officials from the FBI and the Justice Department to determine how to prosecute alleged crimes at school board meetings.

Biden came into office claiming he wanted to heal the country and repair the damage Donald Trump had allegedly done to governing institutions. Because he is a Democrat, though, we knew he meant just the opposite.

Sources include:

FreeBeacon.com

NaturalNews.com

AmericanWireNews.com
(Natural News) A journalist with the New Zealand Herald recently confronted Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on the governments plan to hold the peoples freedoms hostage by punishing the unvaccinated and rewarding the vaccine-compliant. New Zealand has created a two-tiered society under Arderns watch  a society where the unvaccinated are barred from public life, a society where the vaccine-compliant are granted special privileges. That is what it is, Arden smirked, confirming that non-vaccinated citizens have fewer rights.

The New Zealand Prime Minister just announced the governments new traffic-light system which creates a society of slaves, who are subjugated by endless medical tyranny. She even smiled about creating two classes of people, in a system that gives vaccinated people more rights, while segregating the unvaxxed.

New Zealand setting up traffic-light system to punish and exclude the unvaccinated

The government of New Zealand is setting up a traffic-light system to facilitate their long-awaited reopening. As soon as 90 percent of all people are vaccinated in compliance with their regional district health board, the country will begin loosening restrictions on the population. Once this occurs, the country enters the red light stage of the plan. Under this stage of population control, businesses can open up, but are only allowed to serve the fully vaccinated. The unvaccinated, on the other hand, will not be allowed to enter restaurants, bars, gyms or other close contact venues.

Arden said many of the freedoms others enjoy will be out of reach for the unvaccinated. If you want summer [] get vaccinated. If you dont, there will be everyday things you will miss out on, she explained. Arden said she is justified in doing this, because the unvaccinated put the vaccinated at risk. If the vaccines worked, then the vaccinated wouldnt need to worry about anyones vaccine status, let alone worry about getting more booster shots.

The red-light phase allows for local lockdowns, increased contact tracing and continuous persecution of the unvaccinated. During the orange light phase of the plan, masks mandates will be put in place for flights, public transport, in taxis, retail and all other public venues. The government gets to decide which phase the population must abide by, and the government can alternate between phases as often and as long they wish.

Vaccine certificates to be made into a permanent form of segregation and population control

During New Zealands green light phase of their traffic-light system, vaccine certificates will be implemented across the entire public and private sector to create a permanent, two-tiered society. Businesses, including retail and hospitality, will be required to check peoples vaccination status. Businesses that do not comply with this Orwellian, show me your papers system will be severely restricted and ultimately forced to shut down permanently. These non-compliant businesses will have to operate with strict limits on capacity and space. Churches and other places of worship will only be allowed to host one hundred people maximum, and attendees will be required to worship in separate spaces, with no physical contact allowed.

During the green light phase, masks are still mandatory for public transit. The plan legally empowers event coordinators and community organizers to discriminate against anyone they want, by implementing vaccination requirement for entry. This will create a permanent system of control. At this stage, the government can impose any medical intervention they want, while using vaccine certificates as a form of mass surveillance to violate peoples medical privacy and segregate them at will.

Prime Minister Arden said the certificates are a form of confidence that help vaccinated people feel safe in public places. Arden is practically saying that no one has an immune system capable of making its own antibodies  that naturally-acquired immunity doesnt exist. Even more nonsensical, she is saying that the vaccine science doesnt work in the individual unless everyone is injected. The EVIL that she perpetuates is rooted in hysteria, not rational thought. The EVIL that she defends is nothing more than government-enforced terror and psychological manipulation masquerading as safety.

Sources include:

CitizenFreePress.com

Covid19.gov.nz

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) The vaccination status of more than 40,000 individual state employees in Oregon has been leaked to the media, supposedly by accident.

Adam Crawford, the director of the Oregon Department of Administrative Services External Relations, was supposed to email out a generic datasheet showing vaccination rates and vaccine exemption rates for each executive branch state agency overseen by Gov. Kate Brown. Instead, Crawford mistakenly sent out every individual state employees current vaccination status.

Its a mistake on my part, Crawford told The Oregonian / OregonLive, in a call.

The Oregonian / OregonLive is one of the news outlets that received the file, which included details about each state employees Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccine verification, medical or religious exemption, or nothing if no information was ever submitted.

This personal information must legally remain private under HIPAA rules, but Crawford apparently made an oopsie by blasting it to both The Oregonian / OregonLive and the Salem Statesman Journal.

Ben Morris, a spokesman for the SEIU 503 union that represents Oregon state employees, said this release violates an agreement the union signed with the state back in September that requires the state to keep all individuals vaccination information confidential.

More concerning is that one of the main things that we heard from members who were vaccine hesitant is they were concerned about their privacy in this situation, Morris explained. This is a breach of trust at the worst possible time.

For being a place with so many anti-fascists, Oregon sure loves covid fascism

SEIU 503 is still considering how to respond to this little accident, which was probably not an accident at all. Being one of the most covid rogue states in the country, Oregon is almost expected to do these kinds of things as punishment against the non-compliant.

Those who are all-in on the plandemic  we like to call them Branch Covidians  have been brainwashed into treating anyone who is not all-in with disdain. It is an us-versus-them cult mindset that breeds the type of widespread fascism we are now seeing in places like Oregon.

If the so-called vaccines really worked, there would be no need for the Branch Covidians who get them to freak out about others not getting them  unless, of course, this is all about control.

For a place that has so many anti-fascists as residents, one would think that Oregon would be a place of Chinese Virus tolerance. Instead, the state appears to be trying to become a covid dictatorship where only the jabbed are allowed to live.

The Oregonian / OregonLive says that it will not publish the full dataset online, as it does with other state employee datasets such as salary information and public employee pensions. The news outlet did not say if it would publish the dataset in print.

It did report online that the state agency with the lowest covid vaccine compliance rate is the Forestry Department at 65 percent. Seventy percent of Department of Corrections employees got the jab, while 74 percent of Oregon State Police got it.

The corrections department and state police agency granted some of the highest rates of religious exemptions  19% and 14% respectively, the paper further reported.

The Statesman Journal officially confirmed that it will not be publishing the spreadsheet, nor any of the data contained within it, and has elected to delete the file.

According to the data, more than 90% of eligible employees in the states executive branch are either fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or have received an approved religious or medical exception, reporter Connor Radnovich added.

More of the latest news about Chinese Virus tyranny can be found at Fascism.news.

Sources for this article include:

OregonLive.com

NaturalNews.com

StatesmanJournal.com
(Natural News) Another life has been ruined by a Wuhan coronavirus (Covid-19) vaccine, prompting government officials in Sweden to impose an indefinite ban on all further administration of that particular brand to anyone under the age of 31.

None other than Modernas jab, which had previously been suspended in most of the Nordic countries for causing a litany of health problems, caused yet another recipient to develop a crippling heart condition. In response, Swedish health officials halted all use of the mRNA drug in young people.

A product of Operation Warp Speed, the mRNA jab from Moderna is particularly problematic in young men. Most of Scandinavia is either no longer recommending it or has flat-out banned it from being injected into any more arms.

The data increasingly shows that young men who take the Moderna shot have an increased risk of myocarditis, or inflammation of the heart muscle, and pericarditis, or inflammation of the sac around the heart.

Rate of Myocarditis / pericarditis for young males in #Ontario after 2nd shot stands out above the rest, tweeted Global News anchor Antony Robart. 1 in 5770  after 2nd shot in Males 18 to 24. Factoring in 12-17 age group: 1 in 6817  in males 12-24 after 2nd. Robart cited data straight from Public Health Ontario for these numbers.

New study suggests that young men under 20 are 600% more likely to develop myocarditis after getting vaccinated for covid

Even the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering putting Modernas covid jab on hold for children between the ages of 12 and 17 due to concerns about the risks involved.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), meanwhile, is pushing full-steam ahead with plans to approve booster shots from both Modern and Johnson & Johnson (J&J), the latter being yet another of the covid shots that was pushed onto the world at warp speed.

The Pfizer vaccine has also been outed as a serious health risk by Dr. Tom Shimabukuro, who warned that taking it increases the risk of both myocarditis and pericarditis  just like the Moderna jab.

While the risks may be higher for Moderna, both Pfizer and Moderna are high-risk injections that threaten the health and vitality of especially younger people. Keep in mind that young people in general have an almost zero risk of getting seriously sick with covid.

Concerning the Pfizer jab, the FDA issued a statement about it claiming that while the data does demonstrate increased risks, particularly within the seven days following the second dose, the agency is still granting authorization to the shot and its associated boosters.

The observed risk is higher among males under 40 years of age compared to females and older males, the FDA announced. The observed risk is highest in males 12 through 17 years of age.

Some patients, the FDA further admits, will require intensive care support after taking a covid jab.

And yet, the FDA just approved Moderna for American kids down to six years old, noted one commenter at The Western Journal. Those approving this poison ought to be held liable for the damage theyre undoubtedly doing to those pressured to get this stuff injected in their bodies.

Millions are probably gonna be disabled or dead over this covid vaccine that was rushed to market bypassing years of test, governments around the world have mandated this death jab, wrote another. Anything that has to do with humans lives at stake shouldnt be warp speeded to market.

The latest news about the growing number of injuries and deaths caused by covid vaccines can be found at ChemicalViolence.com.

Sources for this article include:

WesternJournal.com

NaturalNews.com

NaturalNews.com
(Natural News) Three studies have found that natural phenomena, not human activity, is to blame for global warming. The papers published from June through October revealed that occurrences in the atmosphere and in the ocean trigger increased temperatures. Humanitys role in global warming appears to be minimal  and even causes a drop in temperatures, the studies noted.

In June, Geophysical Research Letters published a study pointing to Earths energy imbalance (EEI) as the reason for global warming. EEI is a relatively small difference between global mean solar radiation absorbed and thermal infrared radiation emitted to space, the study explained.

It also noted that most of EEI warms the ocean, with the rest heating the land, melting ice and warming the atmosphere. The authors of the study wrote that they have recorded statistically indistinguishable decadal EEI increases from mid-2005 to mid-2019. They primarily attribute this to an increase in absorbed solar radiation associated with decreased reflection by clouds.

The study pointed to another natural phenomenon called the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO), which is a large-scale climate pattern associated with substantial shifts in sea-surface temperatures and clouds.

According to the authors, the PDO shifted into a warm phase from around 2014 until 2020. This change led to fewer clouds covering the ocean, allowing more solar radiation to be absorbed. If the PDO were to reverse in the future, that would likely act to decrease the rate of heat uptake, they wrote. (Related: CO2 is not causing global warming  the sun is.)

Lead study author Norman Loeb said: The two very independent ways of looking at changes in Earths energy imbalance are in really, really good agreement. Theyre both showing this very large tend, which gives us a lot of confidence that what were seeing is a real phenomenon and not just an instrumental artifact.

Writing for NoTricksZone, author Kenneth Richard commented on the study by Loeb and his colleagues. He said that based on data from the Clouds and the Earths Radiant Energy System (CERES), both clouds and the Earths surface account for 89 percent of global warming. On the other hand, greenhouse gases only account for a tiny fraction of this warming.

Two other studies debunk humanitys role in global warming

Another study by two researchers from Germany also disproved the alleged role of humans in global warming. Earlier this month, a study published in Atmosphere argued that anthropogenic emissions might actually cause global temperatures to drop. The study authors referenced research by Loeb and his colleagues, which cited a reduction in low cloud cover for higher temperatures.

We compare clear sky [areas] with cloudy areas and find that changes in the cloud structure should be the root cause, the German researchers wrote. They add that their own conclusions, based on CERES data, conflict with the assumption that further global warming originates mainly from the [long-wave] radiation capture caused by greenhouse gases.

Richard also commented on the study: In fact, the greenhouse effect impact has been negative; it has contributed a net cooling influence over the last two decades.

In July, a study conducted by academic Antero Ollilia of Finlands Aalto University was published in Current Journal of Applied Science and Technology.

Ollilias paper noted that from 2000 to 2019, there are natural climate drivers that have rapid and significant temperature impacts exceeding the anthropogenic drivers for that span of time. Anthropogenic refers to pollutants derived from human activities.

The Finnish researchers study pointed out that any warming observed since 2015 cannot be due to anthropogenic reasons. (Related: Larry Hamlin: Climate emergency is the product of propaganda and politics without scientific backing.)

ClimateAlarmism.news has more articles regarding natural phenomena playing a bigger role in global warming.

Sources include:

TheNewAmerican.com

AGUPubs.OnlineLibrary.Wiley.com

NoTricksZone.com

MDPI.com

ResearchGate.net
According to a spokeswoman, a suspected poacher was crushed to death by an elephant in South Africa's iconic Kruger National Park. Kruger spokesperson Isaac Phaahla stated that the mutilated body was discovered Thursday during an intelligence operation to avoid poaching.

However, before any animals were hurt, Phaahla reported, an elephant crushed one poacher to death while the others escaped.

"Preliminary findings indicate that the victim was murdered by an elephant and his accomplices left behind," he said.

The elephant spared the man's mobile phone, which rangers gave over to police to help them track down his other poachers.

Animal Justice

A herd of elephants crushed and killed another alleged poacher in the park earlier this year. In 2019, an elephant killed a suspected rhino poacher before lions allegedly devoured his carcass in the park.

The suspected rhino poacher was killed by an elephant and then "devoured" by lions in a similar circumstance in 2019, according to park officials. Only his skull and a pair of jeans were discovered. South Africa saw a dramatic decrease in rhino poaching last year, with murders down by 33%.

Related Article: Suspected Poacher 'Trampled to Death by Elephants' Splits Netizens

Poaching Issue

Poaching, particularly of rhinos, has been a major problem in Kruger. In February, the park revealed that its rhino population had decreased by 70% in the preceding decade, to slightly under 4,000.

The park reported the capture of four rhino poachers on Tuesday. "There has been a 29.41 percent rise in the number of poachers detained (22) as compared to (17) for the same period in 2020," according to the park.

Over the last two years, the park has successfully combated wildlife crimes, owing to new technology and enhanced patrols that have helped catch suspects before they kill, according to Phaahla. The park has also benefited from COVID travel restrictions.

According to Kruger, there has been a 37 percent decrease in the number of animals taken this year compared to the previous year.

Wildlife Poaching

Poaching of wild animals is rampant, with millions of creatures from hundreds of species killed or taken from their natural habitats worldwide. Elephants, rhinos, other iconic species, and smaller and less well-known fauna like lizards and monkeys are all threatened by poaching.

Poachers kill or capture animals to sell them locally or for the worldwide wildlife trade. Wildlife trafficking is a vast illicit market that has grown in tandem with increasing wealth in Asia, which is a major consumer of wildlife and the rise of e-commerce and social networking platforms.

Wildlife poaching has disastrous repercussions. In certain cases, it is the principal cause of an animal's extinction threat. This is the situation with the African elephant, which was slaughtered in large numbers for ivory between 2014 and 2017. Likewise, poaching has had a devastating effect on rhinos, with over a thousand killed each year for their horns.

Also Read: Herd Matriarch Helped Struggling Baby Elephant Whose Mom Was Briefly Sidetracked During Journey

For the most recent updates from the animal kingdom, don't forget to follow Nature World News!
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UPDATE: Trinity's mother, Nikki, gave us an update on her current condition in the hospital.

"Our daughter hasnt even woken up shes just doing well on the stages she is in, she's stable in that sense," said Nikki. "We dont know the full extent to her injuries until she wakes up. This is overwhelming with all this going on."

We wish Trinity a fast and full recovery. If you would like to help Trinity and her family the link to her Go Fund Me is below.

UPDATE: According to the girl's mother, Trinity, the 11-year-old girl who was hit by a truck, is currently at a Spokane hospital where she is expected to make a full recovery.

"Thank you for all your support & concerns," said Nikki, Trinity's mother. "She's an amazing girl & Dr.'s plan for her to make a full recovery."

Trinity's aunt, Zayna, has made a Go Fund Me for Trinity and her family while at the hospital.

In the Go Fund Me, Zayna states:

"The doctors are expecting her to be admitted for a while and will need a lot of therapy after. This family is down one income and has five other kids that need looking after. The proceeds will go to directly to her family and any care that Trinity will need. We appreciate all the love and support that the family is receiving and please keep Trinity in your prayers."

RICHLAND, WA - An 11-year-old girl was sent to the hospital for after getting hit by a vehicle when crossing the street after the school bus dropped the girl off Friday afternoon, October 22nd in the area of Hood Ave and Spengler St.

At about 1:45 PM, Richland Police Officers found the girl unconscious but breathing in the street.

She was then taken by ambulance to a local medical facility for treatment and later flown to a trauma hospital where she is currently undergoing further treatment.

Richland police say this investigation is ongoing, however initial information indicates the following: A Richland School District bus was driving eastbound on Spengler St when it stopped to let children off near Hood Ave. The red flashing lights and stop sign on the bus were activated according to witnesses and the bus driver. Vehicles were in the westbound lanes of Spengler St. stopped for the red flashing lights and stop sign on the school bus. When the bus turned off its flashing red lights, retracted the stop sign and started moving forward again, the car and truck started forward as well in the opposite direction. After the bus completed the stop and began driving away, unfortunately, the child attempted to cross the street behind the bus and was struck by a vehicle in the opposite lane. The bus driver reportedly was not aware there had been an accident behind the bus after proceeding on the route. Investigators found no impairment in the involved drivers ability to safely operate the vehicle.

The Richland Police Department would like to encourage motorists to be aware of pedestrians at all times, especially in neighborhoods, near school busses and bus stops.

"Our hearts go out to the childs parents, as do our wishes for a speedy recovery," wrote the Richland Police Department. "We would like to encourage parents to please talk with your children about bus safety and crossing streets in a safe manner."
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  The Alaska Legislature is in special session but it's quiet at the Capitol, where many legislative offices have been dark, floor sessions in some cases have lasted seconds and little progress has been made toward resolving the state's fiscal issues.

Since the session started Oct. 4 in Juneau, House committees have had five meetings on fiscal-related topics, all in Anchorage; the Senate has had no such hearings.

I dont think its making a lot of sense to be here doing what were doing right now. So if were not going to do anything, gavel out," said Republican Rep. DeLena Johnson of Palmer, one of four House members present last week for a so-called technical floor session held to satisfy a meeting requirement but at which no business is taken up.

Outside the first day, there has been one regular floor session. That was in the House and after bill introductions, much of the time was spent on speeches, some memorializing people who died recently, others on topics like COVID-19 vaccines.

There has been interest in finding a long-term solution to a yearly, divisive fight over what size dividend to pay residents from the states oil wealth. A legislative working group recommended a constitutional guarantee of a dividend as part of a package with elements including new revenue, budget reductions and a revised spending limit.

The recommendations weren't binding, and there are different ideas among legislators about the various components.

There was little enthusiasm for this special session, the fourth of the year, which came weeks after the prior one ended. Alaska has a citizen Legislature, meaning some lawmakers have other jobs. Costs for special sessions so far this year weren't immediately available.

House Speaker Louise Stutes, who leads a bipartisan coalition, had asked Gov. Mike Dunleavy to cancel this special session, citing COVID-19 and cost concerns and calling it unnecessary for lawmakers to continue work on fiscal measures.

Dunleavy, a Republican, said it wasnt a mistake to forge ahead, even as some legislators said members need a break or have other obligations as regular and special sessions have consumed much of the year and yielded no agreed-upon path forward on the dividend and a fiscal plan.

Dunleavy, who like most legislators faces reelection next year, said lawmakers have plenty of options before them and need to hear and bring bills up for votes.

They can say theyre tired, theyre old, theyre sleepy, theyre hungry. They can say all that stuff. But in the end, they either did it or they didnt, he said.

Dunleavy said he will not call another special session this year.

Dunleavy has advocated splitting annual draws from the oil-wealth permanent fund 50/50 between dividends and government, which the legislative group recommended working toward. While Dunleavy said the administration has responded to legislators' questions, some lawmakers said they would like to see Dunleavy more engaged and clearer on what elements he would support as part of a plan.

Senate President Peter Micciche, a Soldotna Republican, said Alaskans don't care about a show on the floor. They care about results. This special session had no potential to deliver the results, he said.

Micciche said the Senate is divided and his job is to try to move senators to more common ground to be positioned to act on bills during the next regular session, starting in January.

Micciche said he preferred to wait for lawmakers to have the support to call themselves into a special session because that would mean we've had more forward progress on the potential to agree on a fiscal plan. We're not even close.

He said this special session was irresponsible and would have been much more wasteful had we not just sent people home.

Stutes, a Kodiak Republican, said she wanted to keep the ball moving forward whether there was a special session or not and said she thinks that's happening, despite frustrations voiced by legislators who see stagnation.

Stutes and Micciche each indicated they did not plan to adjourn the session early. The clock on this special session expires Nov. 2.

If we dont have anything to move and the Senates not moving, its absolutely foolish to bring our troops down here to do nothing, Stutes said.

Anchorage Rep. Laddie Shaw, a leader in the Republican minority, showed up early for a technical session last week, at times checking his watch while waiting for Johnson, Stutes and another legislator to join him. The floor session lasted less than a minute.

Shaw said he has traveled back and forth between Anchorage and Juneau. He said he is frustrated with the pace and lack of movement on bills.

Sen. Bill Wielechowski, an Anchorage Democrat and a labor attorney, said he came to Juneau for the start of the special session before returning home. He said he has been waiting to get a call to return or for hearings. Wielechowski said the Legislature just seems stuck.

Rep. Ivy Spohnholz, an Anchorage Democrat who chairs the House Ways and Means Committee, said she expects conversations to continue once this special session ends but that her committee may set things aside until the regular session begins in January.

Legislators need a break, and the pandemic has brought added stress, she said. They need to go back to real life for a little while, get reconnected to constituents and get rested up to go back and do the hard work of governing in the 2022 regular legislative session," she said.
Voters should pick their elected officials, not the other way around. Seems obvious, doesnt it? But it aint necessarily so. Too often the redrawing of voting districts, which is required every 10 years to conform with population shifts as reflected in the U.S. census, is done with an eye toward ensuring the reelection of officeholders.

This incumbency protection plan may be in the offing again this year as a special commission seeks to redraw Connecticuts 151 state House and 36 state Senate districts as well as the five congressional districts.

Instead of adhering to a goal of keeping communities intact and/or combining cities and towns with similar demographics as well as similar economic, social and cultural interests, the architects of the plan typically make sure that Democratic districts stay in Democratic hands, Republican districts remain Republican and swing districts are kept to a minimum. Such political gyrations tend to take the mystery out of election night.

They also result in gerrymandered districts  that is, the contorted drawing of lines for political expediency, which result in districts that can look more like crabs or salamanders than rational, recognizable shapes.

In fact, anyone who is computer proficient and can access the census data  which is easily done  could draw a map that would meet the constitutional mandate of one-person, one-vote. But elected officials are not keen on that idea because it would put many more districts in play and potentially alter the balance of power.

While reapportionment may seem like an esoteric concept, it is at the heart of our republic. The fair and proper redrawing of districts guarantees that everyones voice is heard equally, that billions of dollars in state and federal aid are directed appropriately and that Black, Indigenous, Latino and Asian communities are not diluted and left powerless.

Whether Connecticuts reapportionment commission is acting in voters best interests or in their own is hard to know. As in past years, the process has largely been shrouded in secrecy. Transparency has not been the hallmark of the commission, which is mostly comprised of state legislative leaders.

In an effort to flip the script, the commission should heed the following recommendations:

Educate the public on the requirements for redistricting: how the state draws its lines, the laws and priorities that govern its decisions, and the timeline. This should be done immediately, and the material should be available online in Spanish as well as English. This will help manage the publics expectations and foster transparency.

Hold additional in-person and virtual hearings across the state at different times during the week to enable engagement and participation from as many residents as possible. These hearings should be scheduled, and the agendas advertised, through the General Assembly website and social media accounts.

Create multiple avenues for public comment in addition to public hearings. For example, a closely monitored website portal or email address would be advisable. Residents should be encouraged to speak about their communities  communities of color, communities of place, economic communities, cultural communities  and to say how they want to be grouped and represented.

Provide translation services of all meetings in American Sign Language and other languages as identified by local representatives. Nearly 12 percent of state residents speak Spanish as their primary language, and they deserve the same opportunity to be heard as native English speakers.

Offer an opportunity for public comment at least two weeks after the publication of the draft maps and two weeks after the publication of final proposed maps.

Make internal planning meetings and other deliberations open to the public, either by live streaming or, at a minimum, publishing full transcripts/videos of the meetings to the General Assembly website within 24 hours.

In cases where communities of interest are divided, written justification should be provided. The report should be released concurrently with the maps and should be available for public review and comment online.

The commission on reapportionment has a golden opportunity break with the past and shine a light on the process. It would be a shame if it was squandered.

Michele Jacklin is a board member and Cheri Quickmire is executive director of Common Cause in Connecticut.
China is saying there is no room for compromise or concessions over the issue of Taiwan, following a comment by U.S. President Joe Biden that the U.S. is committed to defending the island if it is attacked
FILE - This Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2021 file photo shows a vial of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine at a pop-up vaccine clinic in Salt Lake City. U.S. regulators expect to rule Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021 on authorizing booster doses of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines, a Food and Drug Administration official said at a government meeting.


Science-faith outreach cash for Yarmouth church

Great Yarmouth Minster is one of a number of churches nationally which has been awarded 10,000 to take part in a programme exploring the relationship between science and faith.

Scientists in Congregations is a programme run by the research project Equipping Christian Leadership in an Age of Science (ECLAS). The ECLAS project is led from St Johns College, Durham University in partnership with the University of York and the Church of England.



The Minster, pictured above, part of the Parish of Great Yarmouth, is one of 22 churches and organisations in England and Wales to receive grants totalling 400,000, to be used over the next 18 months on a creative, public-facing project.



The Minster project will be focussing on renewable energy, a key industry for the town. Centred around a week of events next summer, the project will draw in local schools, colleges, organisations, and businesses to explore how we have reached climate crisis, and how renewable energy can help us build a better future.



Revd Helen Lynch, Assistant Curate for the Parish of Great Yarmouth is overseeing the project: Were really excited to be planning this project which will welcome people from Great Yarmouth and further afield to the Minster. In the Church we feel passionately that we need to work to put right the ways weve damaged our planet, and look for ways that we can work in harmony with the earth, and all the plants and creatures that we share it with.



ECLAS directors include the Revd Prof David Wilkinson, Principal of St Johns College, and physicist Prof Tom McLeish. ECLAS and the Scientists in Congregations grants are funded by the Templeton Religion Trust. ECLAS has distributed 665,000 to over 70 churches through its Scientists in Congregations programme since 2014.



Rev Wilkinson, Project Director of ECLAS, said: We are delighted to be working with churches on such promising projects, and look forward to seeing how congregations and the communities they serve engage with science and faith in fresh and exciting ways. We are proud to offer additional funding for follow-on projects for the first time this year, which will help churches reach even more people with the message that science is a gift from God.



The Rt Revd Graham Usher, Bishop of Norwich, will be taking part in the event week, and is very much behind the project: The area of renewable energy is of particular concern to the Church of England, having committed ourselves to be carbon neutral by 2030. As the lead for the national Church on the environment, I am really encouraged that the Parish of Great Yarmouth has identified this area for this project. The science behind this event is very relevant, as we attempt to work together as a society to tackle the climate crisis.



The full list of churches and organisations receiving funding to participate in the 2021-22 project is:



ChaplaincyPlus, Birmingham

Chester Cathedral

Cornerstone Methodist Church, Wadebridge

Exeter Cathedral

Great Yarmouth Minster

Holy Trinity and Christchurch, Stalybridge

Hull Minster

Lichfield Cathedral

Liverpool Cathedral

New Hope Baptist Church, Coseley

Radio Maria England

Redeemed Christian Church of God, Sevenoaks

Riding Lights Theatre Company

St Andrew's Church, Great Yeldham

St George's Church, Leeds

St Germans Cathedral

St Lawrence Church, Gloucester

St Mark's Church/Xplore!, Wrexham

St Mary and St Eanswythe, Folkestone

St Peter Mancroft, Norwich

The Bible Reading Fellowship

Wembley Family Church



More information is available on the ECLAS website .



The image above is courtesy of Great Yarmouth Minster.

Do you have a news story or forthcoming event relating to Christians or a church in East Norfolk?

If so, e-mail tony.rothe@networknorwich.co.uk with details and, if possible a suitable picture.

Tony Rothe, 26/10/2021
The Fountain of Life Church in Ashill is bringing Christmas alive with an all-senses journey through the Christmas story.

The Fountain of Life Church in Ashill is bringing Christmas alive with an all-senses journey through the Christmas story.

Care home careers at MHA Cromwell House, Norwich MHA Cromwell House in Norwich has career opportunities for a Care Assistant and Senior Care Assistant. Read more

Norwich synagogue giving away free clothes this Sunday The Adat Yeshua Messianic Jewish congregation in Norwich are giving away clothes for free this Sunday, November 21, as part of the national Jewish Mitzva Day. Read more

TimeNorfolk seeks volunteer practitioners TimeNorfolk are running a training course in 2022 for people interested in volunteering as a practitioner supporting the charity's clients. Read more

Advent Angels set to land in Norfolk churches Churches in the Aylsham area will be visited by Advent Angels during December, created by churches and schools in the district. Read more

Norwich Community Gospel Choir brings comfort and joy The Norwich Community Gospel Choir is fully up and running again, and welcoming new singers. Read more

Crowdfunding appeal to fix Wiveton Church St Mary's, Wiveton has launched a CrowdFunding appeal for urgent roof repairs following storm damage two years ago, and Emma Bridgewater is supporting the campaign. Read more

Help us to stage the Norwich Passion Play Would you like to be part of a professional Passion Play being staged on the streets of Norwich city centre next Easter and see the Gospel story performed in public? Read more

Chance to meet new YMCA Norfolk CEO New YMCA Norfolk CEO, John Lee, will be the speaker at the next Transforming Norwich lunch to which local Christian leaders are invited to share lunch and to encourage and pray for one another. Read more

Worshipping God in a draughty church Robert Ashton is concerned about the environmental impact of trying to heat the large number of historic, but often draughty, churches in Britain. Read more

Finance and Administration Assistant needed The Catholic Diocese of East Anglia is looking to appoint a part-time Finance and Administration Assistant, based at Poringland near Norwich, to support the Diocesan Accountant in accounting for the finances of the Diocese. Read more

Norwich Christian writer publishes poetry on dogs Gail Halley has captured her admiration of God in a poetry book about dogs. She explains what motivated her to do it. Read more

Norwich Mothers' Union needs part-time Administrator Mothers Union Norwich Diocese requires a Part-time Administrator required to provide secretarial and administrative support for the activities of the charity, based at Diocesan House, near Norwich. Read more

Christmas rhymes for Norfolk writer Matthew Pickhaver, who lives in North Norfolk, has just published two books of poetic plays on the theme of Christmas, and they are now available to buy. Read more

Diocese of Norwich grows chaplaincy team for older people The Diocese of Norwich has appointed four Anna Chaplains to provide pastoral support to older people in Norfolk. Read more

Mulbarton mum offers a guided approach to Advent Sarah Miller, a vicars wife from Mulbarton in south Norfolk, will be hosting a gentle evening to help you settle into Advent. Read more

Church and Tenant Empowerment Worker Hope Into Action are looking for someone to join the Norwich team for 18 hours a week as an Empowerment Worker. The primary work location is Great Yarmouth but you will also need to work in Norwich. Read more

Discover the benefits of giving Andrew Frere Smith describes how a generous spirit can benefit the giver as well as those who receive the gifts. Read more
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MIDDLETOWN  An alleged altercation between several students at Middletown High School Monday, that prompted a request for additional police units, was contained by early afternoon, according to a district official.

Middletown Police Lt. Brian Hubbs said Monday afternoon that the department was alerted to a big fight earlier in the day, and additional resources were requested at the scene, which, Hubbs said, was due to the magnitude and number of people involved.

Soon after, Hubbs learned no additional officers were needed, he said.

Administration and security have contained the incident and students involved. There is no evidence of weapons being part of this altercation, Principal Colleen Weiner said in an alert to parents, according to district Director of Communications Jessie B. Lavorgna.

The school was placed on a temporary hold in place, Lavorgna also said. That was lifted a while ago; regular movement resumed in the building at that time.

The school will continue to investigate and enforce discipline policies, Weiner said in her email. The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our priority.

This is not the first time alleged fights at the high school have been made public.

In late September, short videos of three alleged fights, showing students involved in altercations in the hallways of Middletown High School as others gathered to watch, were shared on social media by two Board of Education candidates.

At the time, Lavorgna said that, as a result of the altercations, virtual assemblies were held to remind students of proper behavior in school. She attributed the behavior in part to the unconventional learning environment children have had to deal with during the pandemic.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  The spread of COVID-19 has dropped substantially in recent weeks, according to data released Tuesday by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

For the first time since mid-July, the state reported two consecutive days of new daily cases below 1,500. Over the past two weeks, the rolling average number of daily new cases has decreased by more than 35%. Hospitalizations, which have declined by 37% in the last 14 days, are at their lowest levels in nearly three months.

Health officials reported on Monday that K-12 schools, which host kids under 12 who cannot yet be vaccinated, have also seen a drop in cases associated with clusters for five straight weeks.

North Carolinas key metrics show high but declining levels of COVID-19 spread, health officials wrote in the report.

The share of COVID-19 tests coming back positive over the past week has ranged from 4% to 6%, down substantially from the 8% to 10% daily positivity rate reported a month ago.

Spread of the more contagious variant along with low vaccination rates in many of North Carolina's 100 counties had fueled substantial spread from late July to mid-September.

State health officials continue to urge people to get vaccinated. On Monday, they touted the success small financial perks had in boosting vaccination numbers over the summer, though the state's cash card program is no longer available to residents who want to come in for a first shot.

Though more data is still coming in, only about 21,000 people came in for their first COVID-19 shot last week, which represents the lowest weekly count since the first week of a sluggish December 2020 vaccine roll-out.

North Carolina is in the middle of the pack in the nation on its share of vaccinated residents, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The numbers show North Carolina with the 16th lowest share of residents 12 and older who have been fully vaccinated. Even so, the CDC ranks North Carolina with the 14th lowest death rate per 100,000 residents.

The state's latest COVID surveillance report notes unvaccinated North Carolinians are more than four times as likely get the virus and nearly 20 times more likely to die of COVID-19 than vaccinated people.

If you arent yet vaccinated, dont wait," NCDHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen said in a news release last week. "We are seeing this virus attack those who are unvaccinated at a much higher rate than those who are vaccinated.

Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 boosters are now available to more North Carolinians who have already been vaccinated.

North Carolina public health officials are also preparing distribute the first wave of Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines once the federal government approves them for children aged 5 to 11. A panel of U.S. health advisers on Tuesday endorsed kid-size doses of the vaccine, moving North Carolina and other states one step closer to beginning vaccinations in younger children.

The state expects to receive 124,500 doses, which would then be made available to 231 providers across the state, though health officials noted vaccine distribution counts are subject to change and some providers may decline allocations.

The Mecklenburg County Health Department is expected to get the largest share of vaccines at 13,500, followed by 8,100 set to go to Wake County Human Services.

Roughly 900,000 North Carolinians fall within the qualifying age group, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Follow AP coverage of the virus outbreak at https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak.

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Follow Anderson on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BryanRAnderson.

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Anderson 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.
MONROE, La. (AP)  Growing up in the piney backwoods of northern Louisiana, where yards were dotted with crosses and the occasional Confederate flag, Jacob Brown was raised on hunting, fishing and dreams of becoming a state trooper.

But within weeks of arriving at the Louisiana State Police training academy in Baton Rouge, instructors pegged Brown as trouble. One wrote that he was an arrogant, chronic rule breaker with toxic character traits that should disqualify him from ever joining the states elite law enforcement agency.

Fortunately for Brown, the state police was known as a place where who you knew often trumped what you did, and where most introductory chats eventually got around to a simple question: Whos your daddy?

Jacob Brown is the son of Bob Brown, then part of the state polices top brass who would rise to second in command despite being reprimanded years earlier for calling Black colleagues the n-word and hanging a Confederate flag in his office. And the son would not only become a legacy hire but prove his instructors prophetic by becoming one of the most violent troopers in the state, reserving most of his punches, flashlight strikes and kicks for the Black drivers he pulled over along the soybean and cotton fields near where he grew up.

When friends and colleagues would ask Bob Brown how his first-born was getting along as a trooper, hed respond with a seemingly innocuous boast:

Hes knocking heads.

The Browns story is woven throughout the recent history of the Louisiana State Police and represents what dozens of current and former troopers have described to The Associated Press as a culture of impunity, nepotism and in some cases outright racism.

It illustrates the dynamics that have made the agency the focus of a sprawling federal investigation that initially examined the deadly 2019 arrest of Black motorist Ronald Greene and has since expanded to include a string of other cases -- several involving Jacob Brown -- in which troopers are accused of beatings and cover-ups, even when they are caught on video.

If youre a part of the good ol boy system, theres no wrong you can do, said Carl Cavalier, a Black state trooper who was recently fired in part for criticizing the agencys handling of brutality cases.

Its an us-versus-them culture, they say, in which many troopers and higher-ups are more interested in covering for each other than living up to the agencys image of honor, duty, courage and doing the right thing.

Its a culture in which troopers feel so insulated from scrutiny that they can banter about their brutality, including texting each other photographs of a battered and bloodied suspect with the quip he shouldnt have resisted.

And its a culture in which 67% of troopers uses of force in recent years targeted Black people  double the percentage of the states Black population.

Theres a corruption that allows the reprobates in state police to just sort of do as they damn well please, said W. Lloyd Grafton, a use-of-force expert who is consulting on the Greene familys civil case and served on the Louisiana State Police Commission. Nobody holds them accountable.

A potential reckoning in the Louisiana State Police came in the wake of Greenes death on a rural roadside near Monroe on May 10, 2019 -- a fatality troopers initially blamed on a car crash at the end of a high-speed chase.

State police later acknowledged Greene was involved in a struggle with troopers but officials from Gov. John Bel Edwards on down refused for more than two years to publicly release the body camera video. When it was eventually published by the AP this spring, the footage showed white troopers swarming Greenes car, stunning, punching and dragging him by his ankle shackles, even as he appeared to surrender, wailing, Im your brother! Im scared, Im scared!

Fallout brought federal scrutiny not just to the troopers but to whether top brass obstructed justice to protect them.

Greenes death was also among at least a dozen cases in the last decade identified by the AP in which state troopers or their bosses ignored or concealed evidence of beatings, deflected blame and impeded efforts to root out misconduct.

Many involved Jacob Brown. In one long-suppressed video, he can be seen pummeling a Black motorist with a flashlight, in another he slams a Black motorist into a police cruiser, and in yet another Brown and other troopers beat a Black man and hoist him to his feet by his dreadlocks.

Its no different than organized crime, said John Winzer, Greenes nephew. They hang together. They eat together and ride at night together. And s--- like this happens.

Even the agencys superintendent acknowledged that the state police have lost the publics trust, due in part to an old-fashioned culture in Louisianas northern parishes in which some troopers are conditioned to punish anyone who disrespects the badge.

Its uncomfortable to hear, You guys are bullies. Its uncomfortable to hear, We thought yall were better than this, said Col. Lamar Davis, a veteran Black trooper brought in a year ago as a reformer.

Davis has reorganized his staff, overhauled use-of-force policies and mandated all troopers attend training on intrinsic bias. But he acknowledged it may not be enough to stave off growing calls for a U.S. Justice Department pattern and practice probe of potential racial profiling.

Davis also told AP that he still doesnt have a full grasp of how pervasive excessive force may be among his officers. Thats in part because supervisors have for years failed to review thousands of hours of body camera footage.

Asked whether he is confident there isnt another Ronald Greene case still out there that state police brass dont yet know about, Davis didnt hesitate.

No, Im not, he said. Weve not looked at every video.
Newport, OR (97365)

Today

Sunny along with a few clouds. High 53F. Winds ENE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

A few clouds. Low 38F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph.
Weather Alert

...FROST ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 1 AM TO 8 AM EST SATURDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures as low as 34 will result in frost formation. * WHERE...Portions of north-central Georgia. * WHEN...From 1 AM to 8 AM EST Saturday. * IMPACTS...Frost could kill sensitive outdoor vegetation if left uncovered. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants from the cold. &&
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 51F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy with rain developing after midnight. Low 37F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70%.
Russian researchers have proposed a method for detecting cancer and other diseases by measuring the temperature inside the body. Results were published in Sensors.

Cancers, blood flow disorders, arthritis, and other diseases alter body temperature, so one way to diagnose such diseases is to detect a temperature change. It is easy to do on the surface of the skin, for example with an infrared pyrometer. But it is impossible to accurately measure the temperature inside the body without damaging the skin with existing tools. A group of researchers with the participation of a RUDN University scientist proposed a radiothermography method that allows measuring the temperature distribution inside the body.

The purpose of this study is to show the possibility of 3D visualization of the internal thermal field of a person using the results of measurements of radio brightness temperatures, simultaneously measured at different points of the body, using a multi-channel multi-frequency radiothermograph. The novelty of the approach considered is an attempt to more accurately localize the heat source position due to 3D visualization of the internal heat field of a body and monitoring the temperature dynamics of a heat point source inside the human body." Svetlana Agasieva, Associate Professor, Department of Nanotechnology and Microsystem Technology at the Academy of Engineering of RUDN University

Researchers have proposed a method, device and software to accurately determine the location of the source of increased heat in the body. A small antenna is installed on the surface of the body, which can measure the internal temperature with an accuracy of one degree. The patient drinks an aqueous glucose solution, it is quickly absorbed into the blood and carried through the cells. Because of this, the body temperature rises evenly by one to two-tenths of a degree. However, if there is a malignant formation somewhere, the temperature in it will rise sharply by one or two degrees for a few minutes. This change can be detected by the device. To clarify the depth of the pathology location, the researchers developed a calculation method.

The device and the simulation results were tested experimentally with real patients. The method visualises temperature "layers" on the screen of a computer. One can scroll through them with the mouse to accurately determine the depth of the heat source. Moreover, you can see on the video how the temperature changed in this area. In the future, the researchers will realize clinical trials of the device.

"The detailed information about the internal thermal field of a human body has made possible not only detection of an internal malignant tumor, but also the determination of the depth of its location. The new radiothermograph gives an opportunity for more detailed analysis of the state of the vascular system of the brain and early diagnosis of various brain pathologies. Of course, it is too early to talk about all the possibilities and advantages of the new radiothermograph, which will be confirmed during clinical tests that will begin in the nearest future," Svetlana Agasieva, Associate Professor of the Department of Nanotechnology and Microsystem Technology at the Academy of Engineering of RUDN University.
It is estimated that 80% of women will suffer from vaginal candidiasis at least once in their lives. In addition to superficial infections, which can be oral or vaginal and do not usually have a serious prognosis, fungi of the Candida genus can cause systemic diseases in immunocompromised individuals and these are fatal in 40% of cases. Drugs are available to treat these conditions, but doctors are increasingly encountering varieties of fungi that have developed resistance to treatments, thus making candida infection a serious global health problem.

Scientists led by Dr. Toni Gabaldon, ICREA researcher and group leader at the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) and the Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), have studied the resistance mechanisms developed by the species Candida glabrata upon exposure to various drugs and have identified eight genes that, when mutated, are responsible for allowing the fungus to adapt and survive treatment. To date, only half of these genes were known as candidates to confer drug resistance.

The interesting thing about this work is that the identification of these eight genes allows us to use a genetic test to diagnose potential drug resistance present in the infection of a specific patient and, therefore, help choose the best treatment." Dr. Toni Gabaldon, Head of the Comparative Genomics lab, IRB Barcelona

Evolutionary process underlying the incorporation of resistance mechanisms

To perform this study, the researchers cultured independent populations of the fungus Candida glabrata and administered a variety of drugs available on the market that have different mechanisms of action. They then analysed the resistance developed and the genomes of the distinct populations to correlate the mechanisms with the genetic differences.

The strains that have been generated in this work, which combine resistance to several drugs, can serve as a study model in the search for new treatments.

Cross-resistance phenomena

In addition to resistance to the treatment administered, the researchers observed that exposure to one particular drug (fluconazol) also caused resistance to another type of drug (equinocandina) in 50% of the cases, although these populations had never been exposed to the second drug.

"This phenomenon is known as cross-resistance and, in this regard, our discoveries should lead to an adaptation of treatment guidelines to avoid favouring the appearance of multiresistance," says Dr. Gabaldon.

The laboratory headed by Dr. Gabaldon has received support from "la Caixa" Foundation to start a project related to these findings. In this regard, this endeavour seeks to improve the diagnosis of candidiasis and design new treatments by searching for patterns of infection and adaptation to drugs in the different species of candida.

The work is a collaboration with Dr. Christoph Schuller, from the Universidad BOKU in Vienna (Austria), and it has been funded by the Spanish Ministry of Science and Innovation and "la Caixa" Foundation.
A new study posted to the medRxiv* preprint server explores environmental surveillance of elementary school settings for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) through wastewater and surface samples monitoring. The researchers demonstrated that 93% of the COVID-19 cases in public elementary schools could be identified using this method.

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, globally shut down institutions, places of work, and businesses, either in a phased manner or entirely, depending on the governments policy and guidelines. Based on mitigation strategies and vaccine rollouts for adults, the safe reopening of places is determined by the spread of disease in the country and the number of cases of infection.

Reopening schools and keeping them operational during the COVID-19 pandemic is a public health challenge. Schools need to be reopened for in-person education, which is essential for the childrens social, physical, and emotional wellbeing. Schools also enable parental workforce participation by providing essential childcare. Loss of jobs resulting in poverty due to school closures can also be avoided.

Unvaccinated children, however, are at high risk of SARS-CoV-2 exposure in school settings as they spend extended periods with each other in close proximity, typically indoors. As a result, functioning schools become potentially high-risk environments for virus transmission.

Besides masking, improved ventilation, and symptom screening, strategies to rapidly identify COVID-19 cases in communities with low vaccination coverage and testing rates are also needed in order to achieve health equity, reduce morbidity and mortality, and prevent the emergence of new variants of concern.

Recently, wastewater surveillance through genome-sequencing has gained attention as a tool for passive surveillance of community-level SARS-CoV-2 infections. In a previous report, large-scale wastewater monitoring allowed a sizeable residential university to identify cases in specific campus buildings and residential halls. This information helped increase diagnostic testing uptake among the residents.

Similarly, this passive nature of wastewater sampling is promising for school COVID-19 surveillance in communities where students, parents, and staff work - who may face structural barriers to vaccinate and undertake diagnostic testing.

To monitor and detect COVID-19 cases in environments such as elementary schools and childcare settings, the present study utilizes wastewater and daily surface samples in a project Safer At School Early Alert (SASEA).

The SASEA consists of four primary components:

Daily environmental sampling for SARS-CoV-2 using wastewater from the whole site and surface swabs (typically the center of a classroom floor) from individual classrooms; Notification of results - rapid results reporting to administrators via email (approximately 30 hours after sample collection); Responsive testing: On-site diagnostic testing of students and staff when SARS-CoV-2 was detected in wastewater or surface samples; and Risk mitigation via environmental modification (e.g., moving classes outdoors, increasing ventilation in classrooms with a potential case) and health communication (e.g., encouraging double masking, recommending wider testing among household members).

The researchers undertook surface sampling and recovered traces of viral RNA in rooms occupied by infected individuals in a hospital setting, suggesting that surface sampling can provide a complementary approach to wastewater viral monitoring.

About the Study

The project SASEA was piloted in nine public elementary schools in San Diego County during the 2020-2021 academic year. The researchers conducted daily wastewater monitoring at each site and collected surface sampling for testing from each classroom where children were present. Further, to validate the environmental monitoring system, they also provided weekly diagnostic testing for all consenting students and staff on campus and used the results to correlate with the data from wastewater or surface samples.

For the collection of the wastewater samples, the researchers employed autosamplers deployed above ground at sewer cleanouts and manholes. They were programmed to sample every 10-15 minutes over a seven-hour interval.

Over the 12-week study period, the researchers collected data in approximately 50 school days per site and detected SARS-CoV-2 in surface samples and wastewater samples. Correlating with the on-campus test results, the researchers reported that, of the 89 identified on-campus SARS-CoV-2 positive cases, 83 (93%) were associated with positive wastewater or same-room surface sample in the 7-day window preceding the individuals last day on campus. The majority of these, 76%, were associated with a positive wastewater sample.

Similarly, in a single classroom, 40% of the cases corresponded with a positive surface sample in the associated room. While 67% of the cases were associated with a positive wastewater sample alone.

The researchers observed testing uptake within SASEA partner schools was higher than in nearby districts.

Importantly, in addition to tracking the viral prevalence in a given community, the viral genome sequencing of positive wastewater samples can elucidate strain geospatial distributions - thereby identifying outbreak clusters and tracking prevailing/newly emerging variants.

Wastewater and surface sampling and 95% confidence interval across full 12-week pilot period, and with consent at 70% or above (weeks 9-12)

The sequencing of the positive environmental samples yielded results that confirmed the presence of the Alpha variant (B.1.1.7) and the Epsilon variant, which were also confirmed in the diagnostic testing (nasal swabs).

One SARS-CoV-2 genome sequenced from a carpeted floor surface was associated with a genome from a SASEA clinical testing sample via clustering in a phylogenetic tree. The researchers suggested that surface sampling provides higher spatial resolution than wastewater sampling alone.

Limitations of passive wastewater surveillance in school settings

In a non-residential setting, two significant concerns about the potential effectiveness of wastewater sampling are that 1) not all individuals have daily bowel movements on site to shed the virus, and 2) the spatial resolution is limited to entire buildings or building clusters because of sewer access locations.

Conclusions

The findings from this study suggest that environmental surveillance via wastewater and surface sampling can be an effective passive screening tool to complement and potentially enhance individual testing approaches.

Ninety-three percent of on-campus COVID-19 cases in public elementary schools are associated with either a wastewater or surface sample.

In addition, the study showed that 67% were associated with a positive wastewater sample, and 40% were associated with a positive surface sample.

Notably, positive samples can be sequenced to monitor for variants of concerns with neighborhood-level resolution.

The researchers write that even in the absence of a diagnosed case, positive environmental samples serve as a behavioral cue to increase or re-implement risk mitigation measures in a classroom or entire school.

*Important Notice

medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
When facing high demands from family life, working single mothers who have a present-time mindset -; in contrast to the tendency to focus on the past or future -; may feel more "in control" of their leisure time, according to a new study headed by Virginia Tech researchers.

In turn, these feelings of control over time away from work may support these single mothers in fitting healthy habits such as exercise into their busy schedules. The effect of control on exercise time was unique, in that this perceived control did not affect consumption of unhealthy food or excess alcohol, the researchers wrote.

Exercise, of course, has been linked to better, long-term physical and mental health in scores of studies.

The National Science Foundation-supported study was recently published in Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, a publication of the International Association of Applied Psychology. Spearheading the study was Charles Calderwood, an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology, part of the Virginia Tech College of Science.

Although evening family demands can present a barrier to leisure-time exercise for working sole mothers, this health-impairing relationship is not inevitable. Instead, focusing more on the present / living in the moment helps these working parents feel that they have greater control over their time, even in the face of elevated family demands. In turn, they can harness this control to support their engagement in exercise from day-to-day." Charles Calderwood, Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology, Virginia Tech College of Science

Working with Calderwood were Molly Minnen, a graduate student in psychology, and researchers from Rice University and Georgia Institute of Technology. The team followed 102 single, working mothers during a seven-day period. The study focused on how the mindset of these women -; while balancing work and family tasks -; impacted their pursuit of healthy behaviors during their downtime.

Unsurprisingly, the researchers found that a working mom's evening family demands make exercise less likely. Yet, it was specifically one's sense of control over how to spend their evening that was diminished by high family demands, and that made all the difference in whether they made time for themselves  and their health  amid hectic schedules. And individuals who typically focused on living in the moment saw a reduced impact of evening family demands on the perceptions of control central to exercising.

"Present-focused mothers who chose to prioritize their health weren't necessarily more or less busy than mothers who did not exercise as much," said Danielle King, an assistant professor of psychological science at Rice and one of the study's co-authors. "A key difference was mothers feeling more in control of their choices and capable of choosing to prioritize their needs."

What comes next for this study? Calderwood posits the design of interventions that can improve health-behavior engagement for working sole mothers and other individuals facing elevated family demands, such as individuals caring for a dependent adult relative. Secondly, Calderwood said it is possible that other healthy behaviors such as increasing hours of sleep could be enhanced through a similar process to what was observed for exercise in the current study.

Numerous past and current studies on working single mothers have tended to focus on demonstrating the potential for occupational health disparities, such as lower levels of occupational health, relative to partnered parents, with less focus on the day-to-day lived experiences and health behaviors of members of this population.

A looming question that remains is whether similar processes would apply in other populations that face elevated family demands, such as working single fathers.

"Although there have been studies to compare the experiences of working sole mothers and working sole fathers, to my knowledge, there has not yet been an investigation of the process through which family demands influence recovery experiences or health behaviors from day-to-day in working sole fathers," Calderwood added. "We chose to focus our initial investigation of these processes on working sole mothers because the occupational health disparities they face may be particularly acute relative to a number of other comparison groups in the broader workforce."

Minnen, the graduate student working in Calderwood's Work Stress and Recovery Lab, focused part of her efforts on theoretical model building for the study.

Her hope for the study's impact: "I hope this study helps bring unique populations that may be left out by traditional sampling strategies into the spotlight for work and well-being research," Minnen said. "Hopefully the community of work and well-being researchers will continue to consider the unique characteristics of life as a single mother and work towards tangible recommendations and solutions to improve their well-being."
The sudden outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has resulted in the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic that has claimed more than 4.9 million lives worldwide. In response to this pandemic, scientists have been developing COVID-19 vaccines. Many have received Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) from various global regulatory bodies such as the USAs Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Subsequently, in many countries, vaccination programs have commenced. In the USA, the vaccination program began in mid-December 2020.

Study: COVID-19 Vaccine Perceptions and Uptake in a National Prospective Cohort of Essential Workers. Image Credit: BaLL LunLa/ Shutterstock

Essential workers, including first responders, healthcare personnel (HCP), and other frontline workers (FW), are at a high risk of COVID-19 infection as they are in close contact with patients infected with the virus. Hence, they were prioritized to receive the COVID-19 vaccine by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advisory committee on immunization practices.

Vaccine hesitancy among essential workers

Recent surveys have shown that the initial high demand for the COVID-19 vaccines has decreased significantly. Previous studies have indicated that rates of willingness to receive the COVID-19 vaccine had ranged between 40% and 75% in the US. These studies also reported that among the essential workers, FW and the first responders showed lower vaccine acceptance rates than HCP.

Why are people hesitant to receive COVID-19 vaccines?

Some of the reasons for vaccine hesitancy include the novelty of the COVID-19 vaccines, concern about the negative side effects post-vaccination, and distrust in the government. However, how an individuals intention to get vaccinated has evolved, with more information on the outcomes of COVID-19 disease and the risks and benefits of vaccinations, is not clear.

It is important to understand three factors associated with vaccination: knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). These factors could indicate the acceptability of vaccines and help formulate strategies to improve the vaccine uptake rate. A new study, published on the medRxiv* preprint server, has addressed these gaps in knowledge regarding the uptake of COVID-19 vaccines among essential workers. The authors of this study included a multi-center prospective cohort of essential workers to assess KAP and its impact on vaccine uptake over time.

About the study

This study was introduced in July 2020, and the HEROES-RECOVER cohort provided socio-demographics and COVID-19 vaccination data. HEROES-RECOVER studies contain a national network of prospective cohorts comprising data on individuals (HEROES), who are HCP, first responders, and FW, and available epidemiological studies on SARS-CoV-2 among the essential workers (RECOVER) in the US. Hence, this cohort provided the researchers with a unique opportunity to investigate COVID-19 KAP longitudinally in a large population that included a total of 4,803 essential workers.

Researchers observed that KAP responses were strongly correlated with the inclination to be vaccinated. This study cohort largely showed positive attitudes toward the COVID-19 vaccine compared to other national cohorts. Vaccine reluctance was found among individuals who had concerns about the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. Among all groups, first responders and participants who recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection were more reluctant to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. 22% of participants who recovered from SARS-CoV-2 infection did not believe that the COVID-19 vaccine was effective compared with uninfected participants.

The highest percentage of vaccine hesitancy was found in first responders, especially with non-firefighter subcategories. Interestingly, a quarter of the reluctant population received the first dose of vaccine by May 2021. Researchers believe that more studies must be conducted to emphasize the importance of vaccinating individuals who recovered from the COVID-19 infection. This knowledge would help reduce vaccine hesitancy in this group.

Limitations of the study

The current study has many limitations; firstly, the follow-up surveys were spread for about six weeks because of the sites IRB timelines. As the volume of information on COVID-19 disease and vaccines increased quickly, participants access to meaningful information enhanced during the study period, which influenced their ideas on vaccines over time. Another limitation associated with this study is that all KAPs are self-reported, and therefore, there is a possibility of incongruences between perceived knowledge and actual level of knowledge.

Although scientists are confident of capturing KAPs successfully in the study cohort, during the study period, there is a chance of evolution of KAPs with passing time as the COVID-19 vaccine is new. Another shortcoming of this study is that the authors failed to capture the mechanisms that influence the changes in KAPs. Therefore, it was difficult to assess why some KAPs changed between the two follow-up surveys. Researchers assumed that this might be because of the increasing evidence of more individuals who received the COVID-19 vaccine, and among them, only a few experienced serious side effects. Further, the quality and accessibility of information improved disease/vaccine literacy.

Conclusions

The current study on COVID-19 vaccine KAP responses by essential healthcare workers showed that although the rate of vaccine hesitancy was initially high, it decreased over time. The authors suggested that targeting messages about the safety and effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine would significantly increase vaccine uptake among reluctant individuals.

*Important Notice

medRxiv publishes preliminary scientific reports that are not peer-reviewed and, therefore, should not be regarded as conclusive, guide clinical practice/health-related behavior, or treated as established information.
Britta Foster and Minerva Tiznado are in different leagues as far as health care is concerned.

Foster, who married into the family that owns the $2.5 billion Foster Farms chicken company, has Blue Shield coverage as well as a high-octane primary care plan that gives her 24/7 digital access to her doctor for a $5,900 annual fee that also covers her husband and two of their children.

Tiznado is from Nayarit, Mexico, and has no insurance. She gets free primary care visits and steep discounts on prescription drugs, lab tests and imaging.

But Tiznado, 32, and Foster, 48, go to the same place for their care: St. Luke's Family Practice, in this Central Valley city of about 217,000. St. Luke's, a clinic with a staff of four in a nondescript shopping center, offers an unorthodox combination of concierge-style medicine for the well-off and charity care for the uninsured.

The annual fees that St. Luke's collects from Foster's family and some 550 other paying patients help cover free care for a somewhat larger number of uninsured patients, many of them, like Tiznado, Spanish-speaking immigrants who can't get Medicaid because they lack documents.

The clinic does not accept insurance of any kind but requires its paying patients to have coverage for major medical expenses outside its scope of care.

The paying patients, whom St. Luke's calls "benefactors," say they are happy to participate in this "Robin Hood" model. It gives them highly personalized care with great access to their doctors and the emotional satisfaction of supporting those less privileged, the "recipients."

Foster said it's been a "huge, huge benefit" for her family to be able to text or call their doctor at any time and be seen on short notice: "Knowing that their group is here also to serve our community makes it all feel even more important."

Tiznado, who visited the clinic one September morning for a scheduled monitoring of ovarian cysts, said St Luke's "has helped us a lot  economically and in every way. I think if we moved somewhere else, I would continue coming here."

But Tiznado and the other uninsured patients don't get the same 24/7 access that benefactors do. The two groups used separate waiting rooms until the pandemic hit.

St. Luke's is a local response to systemic U.S. health care problems including physician burnout, patient dissatisfaction and the fact that millions still lack care. Nearly 3.2 million Californians, including 1.3 million undocumented people, will be uninsured in 2022, although the state is gradually expanding Medicaid coverage to many immigrants. St. Luke's is part of the movement for direct primary care, an alternative for doctors fleeing insurance-dominated medical groups.

Roughly 200 direct primary care practices start up each year in the United States, and there are currently 1,581 of them employing an estimated 3,000 doctors, according to Dr. Philip Eskew, founder of DPC Frontier, which provides resources for doctors who want to make the switch. That's a tiny fraction of the nearly 209,000 primary care doctors in the U.S.

"We are indeed a small movement at this time," Eskew said.

Their biggest challenges are regulatory. If the clinics take fees from people enrolled in Medicare, for example, their doctors must forgo Medicare reimbursement anywhere they practice. And some state regulators may consider direct primary care practices to be health plans and impose terms or restrictions that make it difficult or impossible for them to operate.

Doctors in direct primary care typically charge patients a monthly or annual fee in exchange for enhanced access via phone, text or video, shorter wait times and longer face-to-face visits. And they generally don't accept insurance, thus eliminating the need to chase bills and treatment authorizations.

"In my old practice, we spent almost half our time collecting payments. I thought if we could just get rid of all that overhead, we could spend more time with patients  and it proved true," said Dr. Bob Forester, the conceptual father and co-founder of St. Luke's, who retired earlier this year.

Many direct primary care docs scoff at the high-tech investor-owned firms such as One Medical and Forward Health. They are widely viewed as direct primary care companies, but critics say they are more focused on expanding volume than on offering personalized service.

"Direct primary care is where a physician has a relationship with a patient. We do not have to be accountable to an investor, because our investors are our patients," said Dr. Maryal Concepcion, a family doctor in the remote mountain town of Arnold, California, who recently left a commercial practice to launch her own one-woman direct primary care practice.

St. Luke's paid patients must have insurance to cover hospitalization, surgeries, specialty care, imaging and prescription drugs.

The clinic is often able to find steep discounts for its uninsured patients. For example, Quest Diagnostics charges them only 10% to 15% of its regular price for lab work, said Dr. R.J. Heck, one of the two family physicians at St. Luke's and co-founder of the clinic. It often refers uninsured patients who need operations to Cirugia sin Fronteras, a reduced-rate surgery center in Bakersfield.

St. Luke's recently got a $75,000 grant for imaging, lab tests, X-rays and some prescription drugs from the Legacy Health Endowment, a local foundation. And it works with several radiology groups that provide discounts, Heck said.

Tiznado, who needs periodic ultrasounds for her ovarian cysts, said she pays around $150 for them. "If I did it in another place, it would cost between $900 and $1,200," she said.

St. Luke's nonprofit tax-exempt status encourages donations, including from local corporate benefactors such as Foster Farms and winemaker E. & J. Gallo. Some workers at donor companies are among St. Luke's uninsured patients.

Tax-exempt status also confers a benefit on paying patients: They can take a tax deduction on the portion of their annual fees they don't use for medical care. Every year, St. Luke's sends them a statement that puts a dollar value, based on Medicare prices, on the services they received.

Forester said St. Luke's arose from his concern for the uninsured and his disdain for bureaucratic systems. But "the bottom line," he said, "is that the idea for St. Luke's came in an inspired moment of prayer." He and Heck launched it over 17 years ago as a Catholic-inspired medical office.

However, while Catholic symbols adorn the walls of St. Luke's, many of its patients are not Christian, and Catholic medical doctrine is not central to its practice.

"There's nobody coming in here and looking or telling us what we should or shouldn't do," said Dr. Erin Kiesel, the clinic's other family doctor.

Kiesel said she wouldn't prescribe an abortion, but she would tell somebody where to go if they asked  which nobody has.

Heck and Kiesel took big pay cuts to come to St. Luke's. Kiesel makes about $60,000 less a year than in her previous practice. Having more time with patients, less paperwork and better work-life balance more than offsets the lower pay, she said.

Patients cited the personal relationships they've built with their St. Luke's providers.

Paul Neumann, a patient of Heck's for 25 years who followed him to St. Luke's, said that relationship has been a godsend.

He told of returning from a trip to Rome in 2009 with a case of walking pneumonia. When his wife called Heck the next morning, he came to the house immediately.

Neumann, 84, pays St. Luke's well north of $10,000 a year for himself, his wife and his son's family.

"I'd be happy to write a check twice as large," he said.

This story was produced by KHN, which publishes California Healthline, an editorially independent service of the California Health Care Foundation.
Interview with Seth Walk, Principal Investigator and Associate Professor, Department of Microbiology and Cell Biology, Montana State University

Image Credit: Promega Corporation

Can you give us a brief introduction to your background and research interests?

I joined Montana State University in 2012, and I am now Associate Professor and Head of the Walk Lab at the university. Were interested in the human gut microbiome, which is currently quite a popular field.

We study some basic research questions in the field of microbial ecology, such as which organisms live in the gut and how they interact with their host (us), as well as questions related to infectious diseases and antimicrobial-resistant pathogens that cause disease in the gut.

We collaborate with other groups, for example, with partners who investigate inflammatory bowel disease and are trying to establish the host-pathogen interaction.

We also have a range of projects exploring how pathogens circulate in hospitals, with the aim of developing tools to track outbreaks and monitor newly emerging clones that could be resistant to treatment.

One of the main pathogens that we are interested in is Clostridioides difficile. This Gram-positive bacterium is the most common cause of hospital-acquired (nosocomial) infection in the U.S. and can cause severe gastrointestinal disease with high morbidity and mortality rates.

The bacterias epidemiology is always changing, so we really need the tools to differentiate between different C. difficile strains.

Image Credit: Promega Corporation

Can you explain what these tools are and how they could be used?

We develop low-cost tools for characterizing isolates and are building databases to facilitate the work of others in the scientific community. We also use mouse models of C. difficile to understand how this pathogen is spread and what factors are important for preventing disease.

At the hospital level, there is a real need to type the isolates, to measure their genetic and phenotypic diversity. We have developed a tool using a molecular technique known as ribotyping, which identifies and characterizes different strains of C. difficile based on genetic information around the ribosomal RNA (rRNA)-encoding genes.

This information tells us about their phylogenetic relationships; how closely related they are and whether new variants are popping up.

Ribotyping tools can be used in clinical diagnostics and infection control, to establish how different pathogenic strains are moving around a hospital and whether outbreaks are caused by recurrent or new strains.

Resistance surveillance is also a top priority for both the clinical and research communities, to assist with the development of new antibiotics. In the case of infection control, strain typing must be rapid, which is where our high-throughput fluorescent polymerase chain reaction (PCR) ribotyping tool comes in.

How does fluorescent PCR ribotyping work and why do you use this method over other techniques?

PCR ribotyping is a low-cost, gel-based genotyping assay for the identification of specific C. difficile lineages. It quantifies the differences in length between 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA encoding genes at approximately 11 rRNA-encoding operons around the C. difficile genome.

By using a fluorescently labeled PCR primer and sizing amplicons with Sanger-style (capillary-based) sequencing, fluorescent PCR ribotyping improves on the original ribotyping technique and our lab has developed a similar approach and applied it to C. difficile.

Sequence-based methods, such as multi-locus sequence typing (MLST) and genome sequencing, are expensive compared with gel- and now capillary-based methods. Common gel-based methods include pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and restriction endonuclease analysis (REA) typing, but their resulting data is not portable between laboratories.

The portability of data is particularly important for epidemiology studies so that links can be made between disease cases across the globe and patterns of emergence can be identified quickly. We carried out a multi-center study that demonstrated the portability and cost-efficiency of our standardized fluorescent PCR ribotyping protocol.1

Four different labs and three different sequencing centers achieved highly accurate and precise C. difficile ribotype identifications using our protocol and centralized database. What is really important for portability is that labs speak a common language. If we use the same naming conventions and the same platforms and databases, information can travel much more broadly.

What role does your database play in C. difficile ribotyping?

We have been building our database of C. difficile ribotypes for around a decade, and it currently contains 123 ribotypes and is freely available online. We have been running clinical samples from around the world with fluorescent PCR ribotyping on a capillary electrophoresis (CE) sequencer and we can quickly match identified strains with the references in the database.

We want other labs to be able to compare their ribotype identifications with our reference database and establish whether the pattern matches a previously named C. difficile ribotype, or a newly identified strain which can then be easily added to the database for future studies.

We recently developed a software package in R to rapidly analyze CE data, where users can input and parse raw data files and obtain a similarity metric between unknown queries and the reference database in one simple workflow.

In the early days, we were reliant on other companies keeping their proprietary databases and software up to date, whereas now, we can analyze and troubleshoot every raw data file received. The pipeline can even be adjusted to other CE-based databases  it is not limited to C. difficile.

How does the choice of sequencer impact your fluorescent PCR ribotyping pipeline?

Sanger sequencing by CE is a proven technology, and now instruments exist with a small enough footprint to fit in almost any lab  you dont have to be affiliated with a large sequencing center or medical institution to run these experiments. Eliminating the hassle and cost of shipping samples and waiting for results is another benefit of bringing sequencing in-house.

Other larger sequencers are being discontinued because of the significant instrument overheads. The cost recovery equations arent working out for large core centers that are moving towards whole genome sequencing. Smaller instruments could become more appropriate in these settings.

We have recently started using Promegas Spectrum Compact CE System and optimized our protocol on this instrument, which has allowed us to keep costs down and make our work available to the field much quicker than before.

Having the Spectrum Compact available is helping us to achieve our goal of making the C. difficile database a public service and to keep costs down for the field. Ultimately, we want our database to be compatible with other global databases.

What do you think the future holds for ribotyping and clinical epidemiology?

What this does is put another tool in the toolkit. I believe fluorescent PCR ribotyping could be really helpful for clinicians who are interested in knowing how specific strains of C. difficile and other pathogens are spreading throughout the hospital. I think this could be a real game-changer for infection control practices because the method is so rapid.

The other area where this technology could be of significant value is enabling clinicians to establish whether or not a case is recurrent. Once a patient starts to recur with C. difficile disease, they often end up recurring multiple times, and then it becomes a very different clinical scenario.

If they are picking up new strains, their microbiome is still susceptible to C. difficile infection, compared with whether theres a strain that has come back from previous infections. Either they are becoming contaminated again from their own environment, which would require thorough decontamination, or the pathogen wasnt killed during the first round of treatment, so an alternative therapeutic strategy might be needed.

In terms of what the future holds, I think once people see how this method works with C. difficile, they will most likely adapt it to the specific needs of their hospital or facility. Any method that is PCR-based will be very adaptable to other infections. It helps us keep our finger on the pulse of infectious disease epidemiology and hopefully keep on top of future outbreaks.

For more information about the Walk Lab and to download the software, please visit https://thewalklab.com/.

For more information about Promegas Spectrum Compact, please visit www.promega.com/SpectrumCompact

References

Martinson JNV, Broadaway S, Lohman E, et al. Evaluation of Portability and Cost of a Fluorescent PCR Ribotyping Protocol for Clostridium difficile Epidemiology. J Clin Microbiol, 2015; 53(4): 1192-1197.

About Promega Corporation

With a portfolio of more than 3,000 products covering the fields of genomics, protein analysis and expression, cellular analysis, drug discovery and genetic identity, Promega is a global leader in providing innovative solutions and technical support to life scientists in academic, industrial and government settings.

Promega products are used by life scientists who are asking fundamental questions about biological processes as well as by scientists who are applying scientific knowledge to diagnose and treat diseases, discover new therapeutics, and use genetics and DNA testing for human identification.
Even as the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic was unfolding, there was already evidence suggesting that the disease was zoonotic in origin. One theory that gained particular media attention was the likelihood of transmission from wild bats, potentially sold in the wet market in Wuhan, China.

Study: Variations in cell-surface ACE2 levels alter direct binding of SARS-CoV-2 Spike protein and viral infectivity: Implications for measuring Spike protein interactions with animal ACE2 orthologs. Image Credit: Kateryna Kon/ Shutterstock

Since then, transmission to several other species has been seen, including mink and Syrian golden hamster, and many theorize the ability of the disease to spread to other non-human primates. Researchers from Oregon State University have developed a system to assess the ability of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to bind to angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) orthologs.

A preprint version of the group's study is available on the bioRxiv* server while the article undergoes peer review.

The study

The spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 is essential to the disease's pathogenicity. It is formed of two subunits, S1 and S2. S1 contains a receptor-binding domain (RBD) that binds to several receptors, primarily ACE2, to permit viral cell entry. The N-terminal domain in S2 is responsible for membrane fusion.

The researchers transfected cells from a human rectal cancer cell line that were capable of supporting beta-coronavirus replication. These HRT-18G cells were transfected with vectors containing bicistronic mRNA that encoded for different ACE2 orthologs and mouse Thy1.1, which acted as a cell surface reporter protein. It is known that alternate ACE2 orthologs can allow species to escape SARS-COV-2 infection or prove susceptible to it. Several studies have modeled these effects, and some in vitro studies have even proven susceptibility or lack thereof. However, the researcher's method should allow more rapid and trustworthy results and can easily be adapted to examine more orthologs.

As the mRNA in the DNA plasmid vectors were translated by the same mRNA as the ACE2, relative expression of Thy1.1 could infer ACE2 expression without creating new antibodies to detect each ACE2 ortholog or using hACE2 antibodies that may not bind to the orthologs with the same affinity. Using basic hACE2 in the plasmid showed 95% of cells expressing Thy1.1. A commercially available labeled RBD protein was incubated alongside the cells, and flow cytometry showed interaction in a concentration-dependent manner. SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus expressing the spike protein and GFP proved to infect these cells with only five minutes of exposure.

Once the basic function of the method had been established, the scientists tested their hypothesis that Thy1.1 expression would increase with ACE2 expression and increased RBD binding and infectivity. To explore the interaction of transient hACE2 with the spike protein, both WT HRT-18G and transfected HRT-18G were stained with Thy1.1 and fluorescently labeled RBD  showing a strong positive correlation between Thy1.1 expression and RBD binding. They also discovered that when GFP labeled SARS-COV-2 pseudoviruses carrying the spike protein, the percentage of infected GFP-positive cells was highest in cells expressing high levels of ACE2, further confirming their hypothesis that cells expressing higher levels of ACE2 would be more susceptible to infection.

To test the different ACE2 orthologs, additional HRT18G cell lines were generated using the aforementioned system. These cell lines expressed either domestic feline or mouse ACE2 orthologs at equivalent levels. These cells were stained with antibodies for hACE2  showing no positive results. SARS-CoV-2 RBD interactions were tested by incubating the cells with fluorescently labeled RBD and measuring binding with flow cytometry.

The mouse ACE2 showed no interaction between the ACE2 and spike protein  which is curious, as transmission to several rodent species has been observed in vivo. However, several other studies have also shown that Mus musculus ACE2 cannot interact with SARS-CoV-2. Human ACE2 showed the strongest affinity, followed by feline ACE2. Thy1.1. expression proved that all ACE2 orthologs were expressed equivalently. Confirmation using the previously mentioned SARS-CoV-2 pseudoviruses showed the same pattern, with hACE2 cells showing the most infection, followed by feline and then murine ACE2.

Conclusion

While the researchers have provided some insight into the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to spread to mice and cats, the greatest benefit of their research is the new method for examining the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to bind to ACE2 orthologs. Several studies have reported conflicting findings on the same ortholog, which could be due to the monoclonal antibody used to detect expression.

With this system, different orthologs can be compared without worrying about binding affinity or taking the time to find a monoclonal antibody that will bind effectively to the desired ortholog. The potential insights of this system could provide valuable information into the ability of SARS-CoV-2 to spread to other species and the likelihood of another zoonotic event. This could prove invaluable to public health policymakers and scientists attempting to model the future of the pandemic.

*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.
Exploring complex reasons behind hesitancy for new vaccinations and better education for healthcare professionals is key to boosting global uptake of immunization against diseases and viruses including Covid-19, a study shows.

Image Credit: University of West London

Researchers from the University of West London, Royal Holloway University of London, University of Oxford and Yerevan State Medical University looked at uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) jab for girls in Armenia to better understand some of the underlying challenges preventing people having newly introduced vaccines globally.

Armenia has higher levels of vaccine hesitancy than Europe as a whole, with uptake of the HPV vaccine being just 10 percent (compared with 84% in the UK).

Similarly, as of May 2021, less than one percent of the population was vaccinated against COVID-19 and understanding why, researchers hope to remove the barriers preventing the successful roll-out of new inoculations.

The study Knowledge Attitude, and Practice of Physicians Regarding Vaccinations in Yerevan, Armenia: A case study of HPV, surveyed randomly selected physicians from 20 government-run heath facilities, questioning them across four areas  their knowledge on HPV and the vaccine, their attitudes towards the HPV vaccine, and attitudes towards other and newly developed vaccines.

Of 348 respondents, two thirds had more than 20 years of experience as doctors and while the majority supported the national vaccination programme for general childhood vaccination, fewer than two-thirds (63.8%) agreed with the introduction of the HPV vaccine.

More than half (53.3%) expressed concern over its efficacy, with 58 percent agreeing with the statement that the vaccine was too new and has not been around long enough. Many also cited concerns about side effects despite not being able to specify what those might be.

Looking to the implications for COVID-19, researchers say that as only 13 percent of Armenians who would not take the new vaccination claimed they do not get jabs in general, there was considerable room to reverse the trend and combat manageable diseases.

Hermine Mkrtchyan, lead researcher and Professor of Microbiology at UWLs School of Biomedical Sciences, said: In Armenia we saw significant concern among physicians over the newness of the HPV vaccine. Similarly, there is major hesitancy around COVID-19 jabs which are not only new, but have been developed more quickly than is usual for new pharmaceuticals.

That is a major factor influencing decision making for an awful lot of people, but refusal of one vaccine does not necessarily point to complete vaccine denial. By paying more attention to the disconnect between the scientific case to vaccinate, and the cultural assumptions against vaccination, we can begin to explore how attitudes can be changed."

By failing to address uncertainty and simply dismissing concerns as vaccine hesitancy, any confidence we have built is all too easily undermined by misconceptions and cultural perceptions that may prove harder to dispel and lead to bigger problems. Hermine Mkrtchyan, Lead researcher, Professor of Microbiology, UWLs School of Biomedical Sciences

The study was published in MDPI, and can be found in full at https://www.mdpi.com/2076-393X/9/10/1188
Olympus third annual Global Image of the Year Life Science Light Microscopy Award is now open for entries through Jan. 31, 2022. Each year, the competition recognizes the best in life science imaging worldwide to inspire and showcase art through microscopy. Contestants may enter by uploading up to three images, with a description of the equipment used, at Olympus-LifeScience.com/IOTY. Winners will be selected by a jury and announced in April 2022.

Image Credit: Olympus Life Science Solutions

Contest details

Prizes include an Olympus SZX7 stereo microscope with a DP28 digital camera for the global winner and an Olympus CX23 upright microscope for the regional winners in Asia, Europe and the Americas.

The international jury includes experts from both science and the arts, including Wendy Salmon, director of the Hooker Imaging Core Facility at the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill School of Medicine; Geoff Williams, manager of the Leduc BioImaging Facility at Brown University; Harini Sreenivasappa, microscopy facility manager of the Cell Imaging Center at Drexel University; Rachid Rezgui, research instrumentation scientist at New York University Abu Dhabi; Sian Culley, postdoctoral research associate at the MRC Laboratory for Molecular Cell Biology at UCL; Stefan Terjung, operational manager of the Advanced Light Microscopy Facility at EMBL Heidelberg; Wen-Biao Gan, director of the Institute of Neurological and Psychiatric Disorders at Shenzhen Bay Laboratory; and Anne Beghin, research assistant professor at MechanoBiology Institute, National University of Singapore.

All entries will be evaluated based on artistic and visual aspects, scientific impact and microscope proficiency.

About the image of the year (IOTY) award

Olympus IOTY Award began in 2017 as the Image of the Year European Life Science Light Microscopy Award with the aim to celebrate both the artistic and scientific value of microscopy images. Today, the competition stays true to this mission by encouraging people around the world to look at scientific images in a new way, appreciate their beauty and share images with others.

More information about the Global Image of the Year Life Science Light Microscopy Award, including jury members biographies, last years winning images and the full terms and conditions, can be found at Olympus-LifeScience.com/IOTY.

2021 Image of the Year Award | Call for Entries Play

Video Credit: Olympus Life Science Solutions
Many patients dealing with mental health crises are having to wait several days in an ER until a bed becomes available at one of Georgias five state psychiatric hospitals, as public facilities nationwide feel the pinch of the pandemic.

Were in crisis mode, said Dr. John Sy, an emergency medicine physician in Savannah. Two weeks ago, we were probably holding eight to 10 patients. Some of them had been there for days.

The shortage of beds in Georgias state psychiatric facilities reflects a national trend linked to staffing deficits that are cramping services in the public mental health system. The bed capacity problem, which has existed for years, has worsened during the covid-19 pandemic, creating backlogs of poor or uninsured patients as well as people in jails who are awaiting placement in state facilities.

Many state workers, such as nurses, are leaving those psychiatric units for much higher pay  with temp agencies or other employers  and less stressful conditions. The departures have limited the capacity of state-run psychiatric units for patients, who often are poor or uninsured, forcing some people with serious mental illness to languish in hospital emergency rooms or jails until beds open up in the state systems, according to local leaders of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.

Such patients are sometimes strapped down or held in isolation, and often receive little or no mental health services, said Roland Behm, a board member of the Georgia chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

Nationally, the shortage of beds and mental health workers has collided with an increasing, pandemic-driven demand for mental health treatment.

ERs have been flooded with patients needing psychiatric care, said Dr. Robert Trestman, chairperson of the American Psychiatric Associations Council on Healthcare Systems and Financing. The current crisis is unprecedented in the extent, severity and sweep of its national impact.

Virginia has severely curtailed admissions to state mental hospitals because of staffing shortages amid increased demand for services. I have never seen an entire system bottleneck this bad, said Kathy Harkey, executive director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Virginia chapter. The strain is spilling over into the private system, she added.

A Texas advisory committee reported in July that a near-record number of people were on the waitlist for state hospital beds for forensic patients, meaning those involved in the court system who have mental illness.

Last month, National Guard soldiers returned to Oregons largest public psychiatric facility to shore up the workforce there.

In Maine, a committee of criminal justice and mental health officials has been working on adding state psychiatric beds and finding placements for people who need treatment for mental illness but are being held in jails.

The well-insured normally can choose private facilities or general hospital psychiatric wards, Trestman said. But in many cases, those beds are now filled, too.

Like the medical system overall, the behavioral health system is under a great deal of strain, said Dr. Brian Hepburn, head of the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors. The workforce shortage is especially acute at inpatient or residential behavioral health facilities, he said, and that pressure extends to private providers.

States are now focused on suicide prevention and crisis services to reduce pressure on emergency rooms and inpatient services, Hepburn added.

In Georgia, roughly 100 beds in the states five psychiatric hospitals  or about 10%  are empty because there's no one to take care of the patients who would occupy them. Space in short-term crisis units is also squeezed. The turnover rate for hospital workers was 38% over the past fiscal year, according to the state Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.

Beyond hospitals, Melanie Dallas, CEO of Highland Rivers Health, which delivers behavioral health services in northern Georgia, said the challenge of dealing with higher demand amid such a diminished number of staffers is unprecedented in her 33 years in the field. Everybody is exhausted.

Nationally, scores of nurses and other mental health workers have left state jobs.

Its hard work and its grueling, said Hannah Longley, community program director of the Maine chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. State work doesnt offer a significant salary and benefit package.

A state hospital nurse in the U.S. typically makes $40 to $48 an hour, while the rate for a temp agency nurse runs $120 to $200, Trestman said.

A lot of people are chasing the covid money, said Netha Carter, a nurse practitioner who works in an Augusta, Georgia, state facility for developmentally disabled people. She said that temp agencies are offering triple the pay given by state facilities, though she's staying put because she likes the kind of work she's doing.

Kim Jones, executive director of NAMI in Georgia, said she has received more calls about people with mental health needs who cant get long-term hospital services as the bed backlog increases.

Such waits for care can worsen patients conditions. Several years ago, Tommie Thompsons son Cameron waited 11 months to get a state hospital bed in Atlanta while in jail. By the time he got to the hospital, he was totally psychotic, Thompson said.

The backlog in public services is playing out in jails across Georgia, with more people being kept behind bars because mental health facilities are swamped.

The Georgia Sheriffs Association said its members have relayed their difficulties in placing people in state-run treatment. A lot of these folks dont need to be in jail, but theyre stuck in there, said Bill Hallsworth, the associations coordinator of jail and court services. Theres no place to put them.

Hospital ERs also are feeling the shortage of state beds, said Anna Adams, a senior vice president of the Georgia Hospital Association. People with mental illness arriving in the ER tend to be at the end of the line, said Robin Rau, CEO of Miller County Hospital in rural southwestern Georgia.

Rau said the bed backlog is horrible. Covid has just exacerbated everything.

Need help?

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text HOME to the Crisis Text Line at 741741.
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Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High 57F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers after midnight. Low 42F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
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(Newser)  The wreckage of one of the most storied vessels in American history has been found in Canadian waters northeast of Boston, almost 60 years after it sank while being towed to Philadelphia. The US Revenue Cutter Bear, built as a sealing ship in Scotland in 1874, was bought by the US in 1884 and took part in the Arctic search for the Greely expedition. In the following decades, Bear, as part of the Revenue Cutter Service, a forerunner to the Coast Guard, served in Alaskan waters. Its many duties included Arctic rescues, law enforcement, carrying supplies to remote areas, and serving as a floating courthouse. It brought relief to San Francisco after the 1906 earthquake, and patrolled Arctic waters for the Navy in World War I.

story continues below

"During Bear's 40-year career in Alaska, the cutter performed some of the most daring and successful Arctic rescues in history," says William Thiesen, the Coast Guard Atlantic Areas official historian, per the AP. "And when malnourished Native Americans needed food, Bear brought it. When stranded whalers needed rescue, Bear saved them. One hundred years ago when thousands of Alaskans contracted the Spanish flu during the pandemic, Bear brought doctors and medicine." In 1926, it became a museum ship in Oakland and appeared in the 1930 movie The Sea-Wolf. In 1934, it returned to icy waters for an Antarctic mission and in World War II, it returned to Navy service and helped capture a German spy ship.

The Bear's captain from 1886 until 1895, Michael "Hell Roaring Mike" Healy, was "the first person of African American descent to command a ship of the US Government," the NOAA said in a blog post confirming that the wreck had been found. Bear sank while it was being towed from Nova Scotia in 1963 to become a floating restaurant in Philadelphia. The NOAA says the ship's bow is largely intact, but the hull has experienced "the ravages of time"and fishing gear.

Assorted groups have been searching for Bear since the late 1970s, LiveScience reports. Brad Barr, mission coordinator for the NOAA's Maritime Heritage Program, says a search with the Coast Guard and other partners identified its possible resting place in 2019, and the find was confirmed with a remotely operated vehicle in September. He says the wreck's exact location is being kept secret and talks with the Canadian government on protecting the site are underway. (Read more shipwreck stories.)
(Newser)  The chief electricianthe gafferon the set of Rust has some strong words about the lack of professionalism that he says led to the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. Echoing other crew members' comments that gun safety wasnt being taken seriously on the production, Serge Svetnoy wrote a long, scathing post on Facebook saying the weapons department was negligent. "There is no way a twenty-four-year-old woman can be a professional with armory; there is no way that her more-or-less the same-aged friend from school, neighborhood, Instagram, or God knows where else, can be a professional in this field, he wrote. He is apparently referring to armorer Hanna Gutierrez Reed, but did not name her, Deadline reports.

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Svetnoy said in his post that he worked with Hutchins on many of her films and had developed a friendship with her. He said was standing right beside Hutchins"shoulder to shoulder"and that he held her while she died. "Her blood was on my hands," he said. Gutierrez had only worked on one other feature film, yet was the lead armorer on Rust, the Los Angeles Times reports. She was in charge of the prop guns Baldwin used in the scene. "To save a dime sometimes, you hire people who are not fully qualified for the complicated and dangerous job, and you risk the lives of the other people who are close and your lives as well," Svetnoy wrote in his post. (Read more Alec Baldwin stories.)
(Newser)  Dave Chappelle has offered his first public response to the controversy swirling around his Netflix stand-up special, and to say the comedian is unapologetic would be an understatement. "I said what I said," he says in a new video posted to Instagram that, per the BBC, was recorded at a Louisville performance Sunday night that also featured Joe Rogan. What Chappelle said on the Netflix special was, according to critics, transphobicbut in the new video, he claims, "For the record, and I need you to know this, everyone I know from that community [the LGBTQ+ community] has been loving and supporting, so I dont know what all this nonsense is about." He says, per Variety, that his upcoming documentary about his 2020 comedy tour had been invited to "every film festival in the United States" but is now being uninvited.

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"And now, today, not a film company, not a movie studio, not a film festival, nobody will touch this film. Thank God for [CEO] Ted Sarandos and Netflix, hes the only one that didnt cancel me yet," Chappelle continues. As for reports that he refused a request to meet with trans employees of Netflix, he says he was never invited to do such a thing. "To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience, but you will not summon me. I am not bending to anybodys demands," he said. "And if you want to meet with me, Id be more than willing to, but I have some conditions. First of all, you cannot come if you have not watched my special from beginning to end. You must come to a place of my choosing at a time of my choosing, and thirdly, you must admit that Hannah Gadsby is not funny."

Gadsby, USA Today reports, is an Australian comedian who was among those mentioned by Sarandos in a memo to staff regarding the diversity of the streaming service's content (Gadsby is a lesbian). She responded to that on Instagram earlier this month, writing that she'd prefer Sarandos leave her out of it: "Now I have to deal with even more of the hate and anger that Dave Chappelle's fans like to unleash on me every time Dave gets 20 million dollars to process his emotionally stunted partial world view." Meanwhile, the employee Netflix fired for allegedly leaking details about the Chappelle special has come forward; B. Pagels-Minor denies leaking data to the media, and says they are "tired as hell" after the debacle. They are also the employee who organized a company walkout last week over the special. More here. (Read more Dave Chappelle stories.)
(Newser)  Terry Turner got up to use the bathroom shortly before 3:40am on Oct. 11 and discovered, he says, someone parked in his driveway. The 65-year-old Texas man ran for his gun and went outside, where, he told police, the car quickly backed up and started driving away as Turner chased it. Then he fired, police say, killing the driver, 31-year-old Adil Dghoughi. Turner, who turned himself in Friday on a charge of first-degree murder, claims self-defense, CBS DFW reports. CNN reports the case could test the boundaries of Texas' "stand your ground" law.

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Turner called 911 after the shooting, telling the dispatcher he shot after Dghoughi pointed a gun at him, but police found no weapon in Dghoughi's possession. An attorney for Dghoughi's family says his windows were up when he was shot. Dghoughi's girlfriend believes he got lost and had pulled over to look up directions. Turner's lawyer says he was defending himself when he shot Dghoughi, but would not answer a question about what threat an unarmed Dghoughi, a Moroccan immigrant, posed to Turner from his car as he drove away. Dghoughi's family has been frustrated by how long it took for charges to be filed, but say they will keep fighting until justice has been served. (Read more Texas stories.)
(Newser)  If you were hoping we'd soon get to meet our neighbors from an Earth-like planet more than 4 light-years away, we'll be waiting a little longer. More than two years ago, researchers using the Murriyang radio telescope at Australia's Parkes Observatory were excited to pick up "promising" radio signals that appeared to be coming from one of two planets circling Proxima Centauri, the red dwarf star that's the closest star to our sun, reports the Guardian. That planet, Proxima Centauri b, is believed to possibly be suitable for lifebut in two new papers published in the Nature Astronomy journal, scientists say the 2019 signals weren't some sort of extraterrestrial communication, but an "electronically drifting intermodulation product of local, time-varying interferers aligned with the observing cadence."

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In layman's terms: It's human-made, though the researchers still haven't pinpointed exactly where the signals came from. ABC Australia explains that Proxima Centauri b is on a list of subjects to study by the Berkeley SETI Research Center's Breakthrough Listen project, a $100 million program on the hunt for "technosignatures"signals deemed not human-made or explained by astronomical events. The April 2019 event was the project's first "signal of interest" to examine, and it was an unusual one, as it stayed steady for several hours and seemed to only emerge when the telescope was directed right at Proxima Centauri for an extended period.

The length of the signal meant it wasn't coming from an airplane, say, or a man-made satellite. The signal also showed a change in frequency called a Doppler shift, which suggested it was coming from a moving planet. Price's team spent months eliminating possible sources, until they finally determined what had happened: It was simply radio frequency interference from humans, with multiple signals mixing together "in a complicated way," as happens in a guitar amp. It's akin to "turning it up to 11," like in This Is Spinal Tap, Danny Price, a co-author on both papers, notes to the Guardian.

Even though it's now been found that the signal isn't being sent through the cosmos by our alien counterparts, Price and his team still think it's a "very weird" one they haven't quite figured out. One working theory is that it's coming about from high-end clock oscillators, electronic components made up of vibrating crystals that are used in commercial telecommunications devices, radar structures, and even mobile phone towers. "We would love for it to have been a technosignature," Price tells the Guardian, calling it, at the very least, an "excellent case study" and adding, per ABC. "It's a big universe and we've only just scratched the surface." (This kind of disappointment has happened before.)
(Newser)  An armed cyclist suddenly accosted by a 500-pound brown bear in Alaska survived despite only protesting with a single kick. The male told authorities that he was riding his bike along a riverbed in Cantwell around 9:30am on Oct. 19 when he spotted the bear sprinting toward him at a distance of 10 to 15 yards, per CNN. With little time to react, the man jumped off the bike and "began yelling at the bear," Alaska Wildlife Troopers said in a statement. "Just prior to the bear making contact, the victim fell to the ground and onto his back," authorities added. In doing so, the man "believes he kicked at the bear." The bear bit the man's lower right leg below the knee. But that was the only contact and only bite, according to the statement.

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The bear "then immediately retreated into the vegetation the same way it approached." The cyclistwho never felt compelled to use the firearm he was carryingsaid he walked 400 yards to a highway and called a friend to take him to a health clinic, where he was treated for puncture wounds and a cut. The attack didn't appear to be predatory, Joelle Hepler, an assistant area wildlife biologist with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, told the Anchorage Daily News. Rather, "I would say that the bear was kind of triggered by the motion of the bike, that turned on its prey drive and he was curious." Alaska Wildlife Troopers, who learned about the incident a day later, said "no additional response or investigation" was required. (Read more bear attack stories.)
(Newser)  A lost hiker who spent 24 hours on Colorado's highest mountain ignored repeated phone calls from a search and rescue crew because they came from an unknown number. The unidentified hiker had set out on the 14,440-foot-tall peak on the morning of Oct. 18 but did not return to their lodging by evening, Lake County Search and Rescue said in a statement. That's when the owner of the lodging called for assistance, reports CTV News. Crews searched "high probability areas" on Mount Elbert from 10pm to 3am while calling the hiker's cellphone. Crews also left voicemail and text messages, the statement said.

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All went ignored. After a brief pause overnight, crews were again searching for the hiker on the morning of Oct. 19 when it was reported that they'd returned to the lodging around 9:30am, roughly 24 hours after setting out, per the Guardian. The hiker then told authorities that they'd lost the trail around nightfall and "bounced around on to different trails trying to locate the proper trailhead" during the evening, before finally locating their car, according to the statement. The person said they'd had "no idea" anyone was looking for them.

"One notable take-away is that the subject ignored repeated phone calls from us because they didn't recognize the number," Search and Rescue said. "If you're overdue according to your itinerary, and you start getting repeated calls from an unknown number, please answer the phone; it may be a SAR team trying to confirm you're safe!" In response to angry comments on social media, the agency did note that "what seems like common sense in hindsight is not obvious to a subject in the moment when they are lost and panicking." (Read more missing person stories.)
(Newser)  The family of Brandon Lee, the actor who died in 1993 in a freak gun accident while filming The Crow, knows too well the feelings that the family of Halyna Hutchins is going through. After the 42-year-old cinematographer was killed last week in New Mexico when a gun being handled by Alec Baldwin apparently misfired during filming of the movie Rust, Lee's Twitter account, run by his sister, Shannon Lee, tweeted: "No one should ever be killed by a gun on a film set. Period." Now Brandon Lee's fiancee, Eliza Hutton, is also speaking out, for the first time since her love died nearly three decades ago, calling Hutchins' death something that could have, and should have, been prevented.

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"Twenty-eight years ago, I was shattered by the shock and grief of losing the love of my life, Brandon Lee, so senselessly," Hutton tells People. "My heart aches again now for Halyna Hutchins' husband and son, and for all those left in the wake of this avoidable tragedy." Hutton, who was to marry Lee on April 17, 1993he was killed just two weeks earliernotes she hopes the powers that be "consider alternatives to real guns on sets." She underscored her feelings in a post on her private Instagram this week, writing: "There's no such thing as a prop gun."

Shannon Lee spoke more on the topic as well, telling the Hollywood Reporter on Friday that Hutchins' death has "[stirred] up a lot of emotions and frustration" for her family. "There are rules that are supposed to be followed," she said. "I am certainly not pointing fingers at anyone because that would be the wrong thing to do. But, there is no reason for something like this to happen." She also said she felt for Baldwin, "and even more so" for those who loved Hutchins.

Meanwhile, Fox News revisits the story of Michael Massee, the actor who accidentally shot Brandon Lee on The Crow set. In the scene they were shooting, Massee was supposed to "shoot" Lee at close range with a .44 Magnum revolver that contained blanks. However, there was a bullet fragment in the gun's chamber, and the gunpowder in the blank's cartridge ignited it and sent it flying in Lee's direction. No charges were filed, but Massee, devastated by the accident, took a long break from acting. "It's something I'm going to live with," he told Extra in 2005, via CNN. "It took me the time it took to be able to not so much put it in perspective but to be able to move on with my life." Massee died of cancer in 2016, at the age of 61. (Read more Alec Baldwin stories.)
(Newser)  Marjorie Taylor Greene's opposition to masks has cost her $5,500 so far this year, reports the National Review. The tally reached that mark this week when the Georgia congresswoman was fined a third time for failing to wear a mask in the House chamber, per the Hill. Under House rules, failure to mask up amid the pandemic results in a $500 fine for the first time and $2,500 fines for subsequent offenses. A defiant Greene said she is "taking a stand on the House floor because I dont want the people to stand alone," in a statement to NBC News.

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"While half of the Capitol doesnt have mask requirements like the Senate side, Nancy Pelosi still thinks strapping a napkin to their face is worth arresting people and fining Members of Congress," Greene said. Fellow Georgia Republican Andrew Clyde also got hit with a mask fine from the House Ethics Committee, his for $500. The House actually lifted its mask mandate in June but restored it the following month because of the delta variant. (Earlier this year, Greene apologized for likening those behind mask mandates to Nazis.)
(Newser)  "There was no ambulance, no hospitalization, no funeral, no burial, and no cremation," states a federal criminal complaint filed in connection with the death of a Pennsylvania man identified only as JPS. The person the complaint does name is the man's wife, Nancy Shedleski. She's accused of dismembering JPS' body after he died of natural causes in 2015 in the basement of their Pittsburgh-area home and then continuing to collect his Social Security checks over the following years, to the tune of $121,000, the AP reports. Shedleski moved to Las Vegas in 2017 and allegedly changed her and her husbands address with the Social Security Administration after the move. Investigators say Shedleski did tell her family that her husband, who was in his 70s, had died, but there was no funeral.

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The SSA got an anonymous tip in 2019 that Shedleski was collecting her late husbands benefits. The agency reached out to her and she allegedly told them they were living together in an apartment and he was traveling, the AP reports. Investigators grew more suspicious when they saw JPS had not seen a doctor since 2015. Police say Shedleski confessed to having disposed of JPS' remains in the trash and using the Social Security payments for living expenses, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reports. She was arrested in Las Vegas on Friday on a charge of theft of government money and released until her hearing on Nov. 5. (Read more Social Security stories.)
(Newser)  The Biden administration has vaccines ready to roll for millions of children ages 5 to 11and the plan cleared another hurdle Tuesday when a Food and Drug Administration panel endorsed the child-size doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine. The panel of independent vaccine advisers voted 17-0 in favor of authorizing the shot, with one abstention, Politico reports. The FDA generally follows the panel's recommendations, and shots could now be offered to around 28 million children as soon as next week, per the New York Times.

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The panel endorsed a vaccine dose a third the size of that given to people over 12, with two doses administered three weeks apart. If the FDA approves the shots for children as expected, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's own panel of experts will make a recommendation next week on the shots, the AP reports. During Tuesday's hearing, data was presented showing that children 5 to 11 are at least as likely as adults to become infected. Regulators said more than 8,000 child COVID patients have been hospitalized and almost 100 have died during the pandemic, making the virus one of the top ten causes of death in the 5 to 11 age group.

The panel debated whether the vaccine should be offered to all children in the age group or only to those at severe risk. Panelist Dr. Paul Offit, head of Vaccine Education Center at Childrens Hospital of Philadelphia, said it was "nerve wracking" to make the huge decision based on a Pfizer study with only a few thousand participants, the Times reports. "The question is when do you know enough? And I think we certainly know that there are many children between 5 and 11 years of age who are susceptible to this disease who could very well be sick and are hospitalized or die from it, " he said. (Read more coronavirus vaccine stories.)
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Finance and National Economy Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa has affirmed Bahrains keenness to enhance cooperation with the United Nations and its relevant regional agencies to support the economic development paths in the Kingdom.

Shaikh Salman noted the prominent role of the UN in promoting sustainable growth endeavours in various countries.

This came when the minister met with the Regional Director of the United Nations Development Coordination Office for the Arab States, Laila Bakr. Shaikh Salman praised the efforts made by the Coordination Office and its contributions in supporting the development role of the UN.

Aspects of the effective partnership between Bahrain and the UN and ways to develop it to achieve the desired goals were reviewed during the meeting.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bell Textron Inc. celebrated the completion of the first AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter for the Kingdom of Bahrain on Sept. 30.

Bell delivered the first of 12 production aircraft to Naval Air Systems Command as part of the 2019 foreign military sales (FMS) contract.

Foreign military sales of the AH-1Z bring the advanced, dedicated capabilities of the aircraft directly to international operators and help increase interoperability and amplify effectiveness of allied forces.

The helicopter will be prepared for shipment to Bahrain with the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) before being transported to Bahrain in 2022.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrains overall gender balance index for the years 2019-2020 increased to 69%, up from 65% during the period running from 2017 until 2018.

The gender balance also jumped from 70% to 73% in key national development areas and from 59% to 65% during the same period on the institutional index.

The positive shifts were featured in the National Gender Balance Report (2019-2020), which was compiled by the Supreme Council for Women (SCW).

The National Gender Balance Report relies on two basic dimensions that include several areas and indicators to measure the progress made to bridge the gaps between women and men in national development.

The first dimension takes into account six core areas  economic participation, decision-making, education, health, social stability and civil society.

As for the second dimension it covers indicators that measure institutional performance in 12 areas  employment, leadership positions, wages, education and training, the system of professional development and progression, institutional representation, integrating womens needs in the work environment, budgets responsive to womens needs, integrating womens needs in the products and services, studies related to women, participation in national, regional and international awards in the field of equal opportunities and compliance with the requirements of equal opportunities committees.

The Cabinet had tasked the joint committee between the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) and the Ministry of Finance and National Economy to follow up on the implementation of recommendations with relevant authorities.

In a statement marking the publication of the results of the National Gender Balance Report (2019-2020), SCW Secretary-General Hala Al Ansari stressed Bahrains success in promoting the status of women, praising the contributions and efforts of all public establishments.

She praised the Ministry of Finance and National Economy in particular for its support of the report and its goals, extending thanks to all government institutions and authorities who cooperate with the SCW task force in charge of the report.

She announced that roundtable discussions, workshops and other events would be held in November 2021 to shed light on the results of the National Gender Balance Report (2019-2020) and agree upon the follow-up on its

Chaired by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the weekly Cabinet session approved a memorandum by the Minister of Finance and National Economy on the National Gender Balance Report (2019-2020) prepared by the Supreme Council for Women to be endorsed officially.
TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune  www.newsofbahrain.com

Applied Science University (ASU) continued its success on the QS Ranking for international and Arab Universities as it has just climbed to the 22 nd spot in the QS Arab Region University Rankings 2022 which makes it the best University in Bahrain according to this ranking, and its the only University in Bahrain to enter this ranking for four consecutive years and keeps progressing year after year.

By achieving this ranking, the University has imposed itself on the map of distinguished universities, not only at the local level, but at the Arab and international levels.

In the QS World University Rankings for 2022, ASU was ranked 591-600, in addition to being ranked along the top 150 universities under 50 years old in the world for the year 2021, and it is the only university in the Kingdom of Bahrain to have Four Stars in the QS Stars Ratings, and was also ranked among the top 550 universities in the world in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings for the year 2022, in addition to obtaining a 401+ ranking in the Times Higher Education Impact Ranking for Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, and 37 th in the Arab world in the Green Metric Ranking of Green and Environmentally Friendly Universities.

At the local level, the university succeeded in passing the Institutional Review by the Education and Training Quality Authority, where the official report of the authority showed that the university met all the required standards and indicators.

Prior to that, the University has also achieved the Institutional Accreditation from the Higher Education Council.

The University also achieved the ISO 9001:2015 certification for its administrative support services and has achieved the ISO 21001:2018 certification for its educational delivery, making it the first university in Bahrain and the Arab Gulf to achieve this double certification. In addition, ASU collaborated with the British Higher Education Academy to qualify its faculty members to obtain a fellowship certificate from the Academy. The latter chose the University to become an accredited training center, and as a result a large number of the University staff members obtained fellowship of the academy. As for research, the University succeeded in publishing 181 scientific research papers in international refereed scientific journals during the past year.

On this occasion, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Professor Waheeb Al Khaja, stated that the Universitys progress in the international rankings of universities confirms the prestigious position it has reached at the local, Arab and international levels, which constitutes an incentive to work even harder in the coming years to deliver excellence and enhance the quality of education it provides.

He extended his thanks and appreciation to the Minister of Education, H.E. Dr. Majid bin Ali Al Nuaimi, members of the Higher Education Council, the General Secretariat of the Higher Education Council and its Secretary General, H.E. Dr. Sheikha Rana bint Isa bin Daij Al Khalifa, for their tireless efforts to develop education in Bahrain and their constant support for its educational system. For his part, the President of the University, Professor Ghassan Aouad, explained that achieving this success came thanks to the efforts of the University as one-cohesive team, composed of its senior management and all of its academic and administrative staff.

He congratulated the Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Samir Nass, and the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Professor Waheeb Al Khaja, and all members of the Boards of Directors and Trustees for this achievement and reiterated the Universitys commitment to achieve its strategic objectives and become one of the leading universities worldwide.

In turn, Dr. Mohammed Yousef Ahmed, Vice President for Administration, Finance and Community Engagement, expressed his pride and joy seeing the University rankled 22 nd at the

Arab level, noting that this achievement comes within the Universitys vision to achieve leadership in higher education and as part of the Universitys continuous efforts to enhance its position among Arab and international universities. He further explains that the chief objective remains to create an academically qualified student and yield competent graduates as per the international standards of quality assurance for education, and in line with the Higher Education Strategy of the Higher Education Council in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The University had received the Rankings Certificate from the Secretary General of the Association of Arab Universities, Professor Amr Ezzat Salama, at the ceremony held in the Emirate of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and attended by Professor Ghassan Aouad, President of the University, Dr. Mohammed Yousef Ahmed, Vice President for Administration, Finance and Community Engagement, and Mr. Abdullah Al Khaja, Director of Administration and Finance.


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Members of the Tuskegee University marching band are threatening to quit performing at school events to protest what they say is a lack of resources and support
Chris Bosak / Hearst Connecticut Media file photo

DANBURY  A job fair will be held on Wednesday evening for community members interested in working at the schools, police department and various local businesses.

DanburyWORKS, a community collaborative focused on improving the economic health of low-income families in the area, is hosting the event from 4 to 7 p.m. at the Danbury police stations community room.
DANBURY - An emotional Thomas Saadi stood up to speak at the War Memorial in his hometown not so much as the state commissioner of veterans affairs, but as a family man of Lebanese descent who will never forget how it felt being in Beirut as teenager in 1983.

I was so excited to see my relatives but also nervous about the dangers we faced at the airport and in Beirut which we had to drive though to get to my fathers village in the mountains, Saadi told a crowd of 150 veterans and VIPs on Saturday to dedicate the Beirut/Lebanon Veterans Memorial Monument.

We stepped out of the plane onto the stairs, and I remember my mother telling me and my little sisters that we would be safe, everything will be okay, the U.S. Marines are here, Saadi told the crowd. I looked to my left as we walked down the steps to the tarmac, and I could see the American flag flying over a Marine position near the runway. I was only 13 but I will never forget my mothers words and the sight of the American flag that day.

The Oct. 23 terrorist bombing of the U.S. Marine barracks in Beirut that year was the deadliest single-day death toll for the U.S. Marines Corps since the Battle of Iwo Jima in World War II, according to a release by Saadis office. Losing their life on that day 38 years ago were 220 Marines, 18 Navy sailors and three soldiers. Another 183 U.S. service personnel were wounded.

To commemorate their sacrifice, Saadis office teamed up with the Danbury Veterans Council and Danburys Office of Veterans Affairs to dedicate a memorial to the veterans of Beirut and Lebanon on Saturday. The National Anthem was sung by the Immaculate High School Choir, the rifle salute was provided by the Danbury Police Department Honor Guard, Taps was played by Danny Hayes, Danburys veterans affairs director, and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by Peter Delucia, a Beirut Marine Corps veteran and Danbury native.

Seven other Beirut veterans joined Saadi and other VIPs, including U.S. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, to unveil the monument and place the memorial wreaths.

I was honored as commissioner and as a Lebanese-American to co-host this ceremony in my hometown as the service and sacrifice of our Beirut veterans, who were on a mission of peace, is far too often overlooked. Saadi said in a prepared statement. I hope that this monument and the message of remembrance it communicates will support greater recognition of the service and sacrifice of our Beirut veterans, the living and those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Saadi was in the news in May when he was promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Saadi, the former Democratic minority leader on Danburys City Council who was appointed to head Connecticuts veterans affairs department in 2017, is assigned to the 352nd Civil Affairs Command headquarters at Fort Meade, Maryland, where he is chief international law officer for governance for the Functional Specialty Team.

rryser@newstimes.com 203-731-3342
SOUTHBURY  A local Department of Public Works employee has sued the town, his former foreman, and the former director of public works over an alleged Americans with Disabilities Act compliance issue, citing failure to accommodate his disability and retaliation according to the federal complaint.

Gerard Magel, who has been hearing impaired since birth, had asked his employer for accommodations after the town mandated mask-wearing in Sept. 2020 due to COVID-19, the complaint states. The masks made it difficult for Magel to understand instructions and he asked for accommodations.

Shelley Magel, the plaintiffs wife, said that he relies on a combination of hearing aids and lip reading to hear.

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When people started wearing masks at work, Magel initially asked his boss to lower his mask when giving instructions or wear a clear mask so he could understand instructions.

Instead of providing accommodations for his disability, Gerard Magel claims that his initial requests were denied and dismissed, according to the complaint.

The court documents also claim that work issues related to the accommodations requests impacted Magels relationships at work.

People were starting to say there was something wrong with me, Magel wrote in a letter to Judge Vanessa L. Bryant. He also stated that he believed his foremans behavior was starting to taint the crew.

My accommodations were very reasonable and I was caused a very unnecessary amount of stress and harassment, Magel said in his statement of relief.

First Selectman Jeff Manville said he could not comment on the case as litigation was ongoing. He confirmed that Magel had worked for the district for over three decades.

Magel was hired by the department in 1987 and has worked there ever since. He currently works as a member of the highway department.

The ADA prohibits private employers, state and local governments, employment agencies and labor unions from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities in job application procedures, hiring, firing, advancement, compensation, job training, and other terms, conditions, and privileges of employment.

Employers are required to make a reasonable accommodation to the known disability so long as it does not impose an undue hardship on the operation of the employer's business.

I dont think this really was too much to ask, Magel said in his letter to the judge.

An Oct. 15 response from the town and defendants denied Magels claims. The defense lawyer did not respond for comment.

Lawsuit ensues

Magel submitted federal lawsuit paperwork in June, and is representing himself in the court case.

In a letter to the judge, he said that he can not find anyone who will help me.

Shelley Magel said of the dozen or so people they reached out to regarding representation, they either werent interested, there wasnt enough money in it, or the legal fee was too high for the Magels.

They went ahead and sued anyway.

As a result of my hearing loss, I have a difficult time hearing instructions. This is especially difficult when the individual giving instructions is wearing a mask, as it does not allow me to read their lips, court documents state. I asked my foreman, Jim, if he could provide my job instructions verbally and in writing so that I could ensure that I understood.

The lawsuit alleges this request was denied. Magel then claims he submitted medical documentation for accommodations to Human Resources. Upon submitted these documents, HR personnel told Magel that it didnt mean anything and that Respondent would determine what accommodations they would provide me, the lawsuit claims.

In November, after being told by a union agent that the accommodations would be provided, Magel was still not provided with written instructions or accommodations, according to the court documents.

By December, Magel states that his foreman would come out hand me a piece of paper with one sentence on it and walked away. Adding: He is supposed to treat me like one of the crew and he should be verbally telling me the orders like everyone else and handing me the paper with clear instructions for me to refer to.

Magel again emailed the first selectman asking for the foreman to explain the instructions and then hand the written instructions to him. The foreman then complied.

However, during a March 2021 meeting with the first selectman to check in on Magels accommodations, Magel was informed the town labor attorney would be present, and upon asking for his own legal representation, was allegedly told he was not allowed.

A letter from Manville states that Magel did not have a legal right to have your personal attorney present. Rather, you have a right to have your union representative with you; you chose to have Woody Stratman present.

Magel also claims he was not granted a third-party note taker at this meeting because it was deemed too expensive, the court documents state.

In total, Magel listed six different dates related to incidents of alleged discriminatory acts the first dating back to Sept. 30, 2020, and the most recent to March 16, 2021.

Magel stated in the court documents that these kinds of ADA compliance issues have been happening for years, but mask-wearing during the pandemic finally nudged him to put the accommodation request in.

Hes a wreck, Shelley Magel said. A lot of tears, a lot of sleepless nights.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission responded to Magels request saying that they would not proceed with any investigation of his case and did not issue a determination about whether an investigation would establish statute violations.

The foreman resigned earlier this year. In a Jan. 19 resignation email included in the court documents, the foreman recounts a conversation with Manville: You stated my job was on the line in regards to the ongoing personnel issue with Gerard Magel; I took my COVID-19 quarantine time to reflect on what your comments meant to my future with the Town of Southbury.

He then said he was resigning to pursue other healthier career options.
NEW MILFORD  A horde of zombies will be taking over the town green next weekend. As the first notes of Michael Jacksons Thriller echo through the night air, the undead will stagger back to life after a two year hiatus.

This Halloween, local dancer and Jazzercise owner Christine Obercs annual Thriller dance mob is coming back to New Milford.

What started out as a surprise flash mob eight years ago eventually became a town tradition. Oberc said she now just calls it Thriller mob because residents know what is coming.

Jacksons Thriller music video, which was released in 1983 and pays homage to horror films, has sparked spontaneous dance moves, been featured in famous movie scenes, and lived a life far beyond its original MTV airing. In 2009, an estimated 13,597 people performed the dance in a Mexico City flash mob, breaking the Guiness World Record.

While New Milfords mob wont be quite that large, Oberc said she already has more than 50 people signed up, and is hoping she could reach 100 before the sun sets on Oct. 31.

In the days leading up to Halloween, Oberc will be teaching residents  young and old, dance affionados and beginners  the dance moves during hour and a half sessions. The songs walking disco baseline will usher in the spooky spirit.

The main thing I say to them is Yes, you can. I feel like I can teach anybody and they dont have to be perfect, Oberc said. Its just about having fun.

After taking her two young kids to New Milfords Trunk or Treat on the town green nearly a decade ago, Oberc noticed how many people showed up.

It just came to me, she said of her idea for a flash mob.

In 2013, she watched Michael Jacksons moves, modified them, and set about finding other zombies to join her.

Each year Oberc said she has had about 60 people show up to participate and learn the dance. While most are adults, she does see a lot of moms with kids, and has said she will teach the dance to anyone six and older.

The whole process is exhilarating, said Sharon Kaufman, who was outside practicing her moves on Monday afternoon. Kaufman is the pottery studio director at the Village Center for the Arts and has been a part of the zombie horde for about six years. After more than two hours of rehearsal this weekend, one part of the dance sequence was still tripping her up.

Kaufman said her favorite part of the dance is the first section and the final stance the zombies take.

Resident Frank Ruiz is also a long-time Thriller participant, having taken part in the dance since 2013. He said he loves participating and watching people react out in the audience on Halloween.

Im just looking forward to being out there and seeing people again, Ruiz said.

Oberc will be doing a virtual stream as well as an in-person rehearsals that began this past weekend. A rehearsal will take place on Wednesday night, and on Oct. 30, as well.

Kaufman and Ruiz both said they came back this year to relearn the dance. Kaufman knew to stretch before the rehearsal this past weekend, having learned from sore muscles in the past.

Everybody learns the entire dance in one rehearsal, and they dont have to come to more than one rehearsal, but most of them do because they want to feel really good about it, Oberc said.

Oberc has danced her entire life, touring with the cast of 42nd Street and even spending several years as one of the famed Rockettes at Radio City in Manhattan from 1997 to 2001. When she wasnt learning new choreography, she was teaching it  ball room dancing, Latin dance, and now Jazzercise.

It was very hard to transition when I moved to New Milford, she said. I found Jazzercise and it kind of filled a void.

While she no longer dances outside of her studio, Oberc said she loves teaching the Thriller dance each year and meeting locals who sign up to participate.

On Sunday, the group will meet at the Village Center for the Arts before heading down to the middle green. Costumed and ready for candy, participants will get one last rehearsal in before the big event.

Kaufman usually paints some zombie faces before the big event each year. She also helps people figure out how to dress like a proper member of the undead. She tells people to bump into household items in thrifted clothes and chalk an X on the spots they hit, which will show them where to tear their clothing for an authentic look.

You have to decide how long you have been dead, she said. Are you leaning your shoulder? Are you dragging your foot?

Kaufman also advises doing a mud scrub and rubbing leaves into ones hair.

This year, shes going as a zombie woman that was going out for a night at a club when she was bitten, complete with a sequined top and possibly some light wash jeans.

My skin is all decayed and falling off, she said, describing the look her zombie will have on Sunday.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP)  Ohios top lawyer filed suit against the Biden administration on Monday seeking to restore a Trump-era ban on abortion referrals by family planning clinics that President Joe Biden reversed earlier this month.

The action filed by Republican Attorney Dave Yost in U.S. District Court in Cincinnati was joined by 11 other states.

At issue are new federal regulations set by the Department of Health and Human Services that take the Title X federal family planning program back to the way it ran under the Obama administration, when clinics were able to refer women seeking abortions to a provider.

The two rules Yost wants reinstated were passed in 2019. One required federally funded family-planning clinics to be physically and financially independent of abortion clinics. The other required them to refrain from referring patients for abortions.

He said both rules were intended as firewalls between clinics' family planning services, which can receive taxpayer funding, and their abortion services, which cannot.

"You cant follow the money when all the money is dumped into one pot and mixed together, Yost said in a statement. Federal law prohibits taxpayer funding of abortion  and that law means nothing if the federal money isnt kept separate.

The administration's reversal of both rules came as political and legal battles over abortion are growing sharper amid burgeoning efforts by Republicans to overturn the landmark Roe v. Wade at the U.S. Supreme Court.

Yost emphasized that his lawsuit does not challenge the right to an abortion as guaranteed under Roe. The litigation follows a letter he and 20 other states sent to Health and Human Services in May warning the Biden administration against reversing the rules.

The prohibition against family planning clinics funded under Title X using public funds for abortions was contained in the Family Planning Services and Population Research Act of 1970, Yost said.

States joining the challenge are: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and West Virginia. Not all states participate in Title X.

Groups representing the clinics said they hoped this month's reversal would lead some 1,300 local facilities that left in protest to return.

The program makes available more than $250 million a year to clinics to provide birth control and basic health care services, mainly to low-income women, many of them from minority communities. The rules established under former President Donald Trump, a Republican, prompted a mass exit by service providers affiliated with Planned Parenthood, as well as several states and other independent organizations.

Womens groups labeled the Trump policies a gag rule, and medical organizations called it a violation of the clinician-patient relationship. But religious and social conservatives praised the policy for imposing a strict separation between family planning services and abortion.
To help pay for his big economic and social agenda, President Joe Biden is looking to go where the big money is: billionaires.

Biden never endorsed an outright wealth tax when he campaigned for the White House last year. But his more conventional proposed rate increases on the income of large corporations and the wealthiest Americans have hit a roadblock.

That leaves a special tax on the assets, not the income, of billionaires being proposed by a Senate Democrat as a possible way to help pay for child care, universal prekindergarten, child tax credits, family leave and environmental initiatives.

Biden has pledged that his programs will not add a penny to the deficit, which means selling to Congress and voters a tax on the wealthiest .0005% of Americans. Some details on the proposed billionaires tax:

HOW WOULD IT WORK?

Essentially, billionaires earn the bulk of their money off their wealth. This might be from the stock market. It could include, once sold, beachfront mansions or the ownership of rare art and antiquities. A triceratops skeleton.

This new tax would apply solely to people with at least $1 billion in assets or $100 million in income for three straight years. These standards mean that just 700 taxpayers would face the additional tax on increases to their wealth, according to a description obtained by The Associated Press of the proposal of by the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

On tradeable items such as stocks, billionaires would still pay a tax even if they held on to the asset. They would be taxed on any increases in value and take deductions on losses. Under current law, those assets get taxed only when they are sold.

Billionaires would also face an additional tax on nontradeable assets such as real estate and business interests once those assets are sold. During the first year of the proposed tax, the billionaires would also owe taxes on any built-in gains that predate the tax.

HOW MUCH MONEY WOULD IT RAISE?

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., estimated on CNN Sunday that the tax would raise $200 billion to $250 billion. This is a meaningful sum, but it's well shy of the nearly $2 trillion in proposed additional spending over 10 years being negotiated right now. This means that additional levies such as the global minimum tax and increased enforcement dollars for the IRS would still be needed to help close the gap.

And the forecasts for revenue from the wealth tax are highly debatable.

Its just impossible to implement, said Allison Schrager, a senior fellow at the conservative Manhattan Institute. Theres a lot of evidence that these things dont work, and Ive never heard an explanation of how this could be workable.

WHY WOULD BIDEN GO THIS ROUTE?

The president would rather raise corporate tax rates and rates on wealthy individuals. That was his initial proposal, but he's got to appease Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz. Those are the two make-or-break Democratic votes in the evenly split Senate.

Sinema objected to higher rates, which brought the wealth tax into play as an alternative.

The idea gained steam after the publication of French economist Thomas Piketty's book Capital in the Twenty-First Century. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., made a 2% wealth tax a trademark policy in the 2020 presidential primaries, and fellow candidate Bernie Sanders, the senator from Vermont, proposed his own wealth tax.

Biden never jumped on that bandwagon. But he did make higher taxes on the wealthy a key promise, saying no one earning less than $400,000 would pay more.

IS A WEALTH TAX CONSTITUTIONAL?

If a wealth tax were to become law, it probably would be challenged in court.

The likely case comes from Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution. It states that direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers. What does that mean? It means that revenues from "direct taxes must reflect the population of the states, which is a problem because billionaires tend to cluster in places such as California and New York.

If that's the case, how does the federal government charge income and payroll taxes? That's because of the 16th Amendment. It allows Congress to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States. So what really matters is whether the Supreme Court would interpret a wealth tax as a direct tax on property that is unconstitutional or whether it's essentially a tax on income that is permissible.

ARE BILLIONAIRES REALLY THAT RICH?

Seems that way.

There is a legitimate debate about the optimal forms of taxation. Is it better for the economy for the wealthy to keep their assets invested in new businesses? Or is it better for some of their money to go to the government to help pay for programs such as child care, universal pre-K and shifts to renewable energy?

What is clear is that the wealthy do have money to tax, should the government wish to do it.

America's billionaires have seen their collected wealth surge 70% since the start of the pandemic to more than $5 trillion, according to an analysis by the pro-wealth-tax Americans for Tax Fairness and the Institute for Policy Studies Program on Inequality. That gain from March 18, 2020, to this past month is equal in size to Biden's spending plans over 10 years.

Right now, billionaires are not paying a dime in taxes on their fabulous income gains from their stock holdings during the pandemic, said Frank Clemente, executive director of Americans for Tax Fairness. The billionaires income tax would tax the increase in the value of those assets each year just like workers wages are taxed."

There were 614 U.S. billionaires at the start of the pandemic; the total has now grown to 745.

Part of what makes the coronavirus unique is that many poorer Americans also became wealthier, but they did so at a much slower pace than billionaires.

Federal Reserve data indicate that the net worth of the bottom 90% of Americans  a group that includes the middle class  rose by roughly 22%. For many Americans, the wealth increase reflected a rising stock market, higher home values and unprecedented government aid in the form of direct checks and forgivable payroll loans to small businesses.

CAN BILLIONAIRES ESCAPE TAXATION?

They've found ways before.

They can hire armadas of lawyers, accountants and others to minimize their tax burdens. The news outlet ProPublica revealed various tax shelters with IRS data earlier this year, and the recent Pandora Papers showed there is a global industry to shelter the assets of the politically powerful and extremely wealthy.

The ProPublica investigation showed that Warren Buffett paid an average rate of 19%. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos paid 23%, while Tesla's Elon Musk was at roughly 30%. The top tax rate on income earned from labor is 37%, but the tax on capital gains is a lower 20% and that favors those with extreme wealth. The lower capital gains rate can also encourage more investment in new companies that help the economy grow.

A White House analysis in September indicated the country's 400 wealthiest families paid an average federal income tax rate of 8.2% between 2010 and 2018. The administration's fundamental message is that a rate this low is unfair because middle class families often pay a greater share of their income in taxes.

The bottom-line question for Democratic lawmakers is how to close or at least narrow the escape hatches for those with extreme wealth. It could require calculations such as the deferral recapture amount and other technicalities that are likely to baffle most of America. But the writing of the tax law and its enforcement will determine just how successful a wealth tax would be  and perhaps the fate of Biden's big agenda as well.

___

Associated Press writer Will Weissert contributed to this report.
SPOKANE, Wash. (AP)  A federal judge in Eastern Washington on Monday denied a bid by firefighters, state troopers and others to halt Washingtons COVID-19 vaccine mandate for state workers and emergency responders.

A group of workers is suing Gov. Jay Inslee, Spokane Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer, Washington State Patrol Chief John Batiste and others. The workers say their civil rights are being violated by the requirement they get vaccinated to continue in their jobs.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP)  First lady Jill Biden on Monday toured a cancer center in the state that played a pivotal role in her husband's victory in the 2020 Democratic nominating process, telling South Carolinians that cancer touches every American family.

In the closing days of October  a month dedicated to breast cancer awareness  the first lady said she was making the trip as part of a continued commitment to pushing for research efforts toward a cure.

One of the women Biden spoke with was LaToya Wilson, a mother of two and a Stage 4 breast cancer patient who said she was 37 when she was first diagnosed.

We need more minorities as part of these trials, Wilson, who is Black, told Biden, crediting her survival to participation in clinical trials.

Too many women, particularly Black women, are living with breast cancer, Biden replied.

Biden, 70, has been vocal about the role that cancer has played in her life, most directly in the death of her son Beau from brain cancer at age 46. That loss also factored into her trip to South Carolina just over a week ago, when she attended events at Brookland Baptist Church in West Columbia, where she said a relationship with the pastors wife helped her reclaim her faith following Beaus death.

The first lady met with breast cancer survivors, researchers and mammography specialists at the Hollings Cancer Center, named for the late U.S. Sen. Fritz Hollings. The longtime South Carolina Democrat was President Joe Biden's Capitol Hill deskmate during their decades together in the Senate, and Jill Biden said both the senator and his late wife, Peatsy, were very special to us.

Later, Jill Biden stopped at Joint Base Charleston, a facility that houses pilots and crews that participated in last summer's airlift of more than 120,000 Americans, Afghans and other allies from Kabul at the end of the U.S.'s 20-year war in Afghanistan. During brief remarks, Biden said crews from the base "distinguished themselves in the execution of one of the largest humanitarian airlifts ever conducted."

President Biden has defended the decision to end Americas longest war and withdraw all troops ahead of the Aug. 31 deadline, despite spasms of violence, including a suicide bombing that killed 13 American service members and 169 Afghans.

The first lady's multiple recent South Carolina visits have showcased the administration's appreciation for the state. The first balloting in the South, with the first heavily Black electorate for Democratic candidates, South Carolina was the scene of Joe Biden's political resurrection, following lackluster performances in earlier contests in 2020.

Days ahead of the primary, Biden won the endorsement of longtime ally U.S. House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn, the highest-ranking Black member of Congress and the dean of South Carolinas Democrats.

Winning South Carolina by nearly 30 percentage points, Biden's victory was enough to bounce out a handful of competitors who endorsed him in swift succession. The triumph also helped propel him to wins across Super Tuesday states, momentum that carried Biden to the party's nomination.

___

Meg Kinnard can be reached at http://twitter.com/MegKinnardAP.
CANBERRA, Australia (AP)  Australias Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Tuesday the country is set to reduce emissions by 35% below 2005 levels by 2030, but he won't commit to such a target at the U.N. climate conference in Scotland.

Morrison said his government would stick with Australia's current 2030 target of reducing emissions by 26% to 28% below 2005 levels. The targets were adopted at the Paris climate conference in 2015 and are relatively modest compared to other wealthy countries' ambitions.

We will meet it and we will beat it, Morrison said, referring to the 2030 target.

"Well beat it with emissions reductions we believe of up to 35% and we may even achieve better, he added.

Australia had already reduced emissions by more than 20% from 2005 levels, he said.

The country will commit to a target of net zero carbon emissions by 2050 at the Glasgow conference.

Climate experts say achieving that goal would need far tougher measures than the government is currently proposing.

Morrisons conservative Liberal Party-led government was narrowly reelected in 2019 with a climate policy that opposed the 2050 net zero target adopted by the opposition center-left Labor Party.

Australia is one of the worlds largest exporters of coal and liquified natural gas. Morrison said his net zero plan would not shut down Australia's coal or gas production or increases costs to households and businesses.

"It is not a revolution but a careful evolution to take advantage of changes in our markets, Morrison said.

The government expected existing technologies would take Australia 85% of the way toward net zero and emerging technologies would achieve the remainder.

Policy levers include investment in technologies and incentives. At least 20 billion Australian dollars ($15 billion) would be invested in low-emissions technology by 2030.

Morrison was a Cabinet minister in 2014 when a newly-elected government repealed Australia's two-year-old carbon tax. Government climate policies since have rejected any measures that would make polluters pay for their emissions.

The government has yet to release economic and climate modeling behind the plan.

Getting to the net zero commitment took political wrangling on the part of Morrisons ruling party, including winning the support of a rural-based junior coalition member  the Nationals party  with a number of concessions.

One of them was that Resources Minister Keith Pitt, who maintains Australia will continue exporting coal for decades, was made the fifth Nationals Cabinet minister. Morrison on Monday announced Pitts promotion.

The conditions also include a government review every five years of the economic impacts of the net zero target outside major cities. The first assessment would be delivered in 2023.

Finance Minister Simon Birmingham described the reviews as a health check on how various parts of Australia were being effected by the transition to net zero.

What it will do is focus the minds of the government of the day very clearly on where additional investments may be necessary to help ensure the transition, Birmingham said.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who will host the upcoming summit in Glasgow, known as COP26, congratulated Australia on its net zero ambition.

That was very difficult for Australia because Australias very heavily dependent on coal, on lots of carbon-producing industries, and theyve done a heroic thing, Johnson said, referring to the 2050 commitment.

However Australia is likely to be criticized in Glasgow for its relatively weak 2030 target. The United States has committed to reductions of between 50% and 52% below 2005 levels. Britain has pledged to cut emissions by 68% below 1990 levels.

Climate experts slammed Australia's target for 2030 as insufficient compared to the U.N.'s call for a 45% reduction globally, and the net zero goal for 2050 as unworkable with current policies.

Bill Hare, director of Climate Analytics, which tracks countries emissions targets, said a recent study by the group found Australia would likely already achieve a 35% reduction with action at state level on renewable energy, land use and electric vehicles.

By further electrifying transportation, reducing emissions from the power and natural gas sectors, and clamping down on deforestation and land clearance, Australia could achieve 48% cuts by 2030, said Hare.

The nation is one of the worlds worst greenhouse gas emitters per capita because of its heavy reliance on coal-fired power.

Hare accused Morrison of a slick advertising move with no content but a very nice glossy report" that continues to promote fossil fuels, relies on unproven technologies and does little to address the concerns of low-lying nations in the region who fear rising sea levels from global warming.

Scott Morrison said our Pacific island neighbors would like this plan, he said. I very much doubt that.

Opposition spokesman on climate change and energy, Chris Bowen, said the net zero strategy was "not a plan, its a scam.

Ive seen fortune cookies that are more detailed than the document Scott Morrison released today, Bowen said, referring to a 16-page document titled The Plan to Deliver Net Zero.

Greenpeace Australia said the governments net zero plan was built on the lie that you can grow the fossil fuel industry while decarbonising the economy.

COP26 will assess progress since nations agreed in the 2015 Paris accord to limit warming to less than 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit). The meeting in Glasgow is widely seen as the last chance to hold global warming to 1.5 C (2.7 F) above pre-industrial levels.

___

Frank Jordans in Berlin contributed to this report.

___

Follow AP's climate coverage at http://apnews.com/hub/climate
PLAINFIELD  Local police have identified a University of Connecticut student as the woman who died after being struck in a hit-and-run collision over the weekend.

Suffield police said 20-year-old Meghan Voisine was hit at the intersection of Thrall Avenue and Route 159 around 10:30 p.m. Saturday.

Upon arriving, life saving measures were initiated. Unfortunately, the pedestrian succumbed to her injuries at the scene, Suffield police said on Facebook.

A spokeswoman for UConn said Voisine was a junior studying marketing who transferred to the university from Seton Hall University in the fall of 2020.

The UConn community extends its deepest condolences to Meghans family and friends, and shares their grief over her passing, said Stephanie Reitz, the UConn spokeswoman.

Voisine was a member of the Gamma Phi Beta sorority and the Women in Business student organization, Reitz said, and was very well-liked among her classmates and professors.

Plainfield police said the vehicle fled the scene.

On Monday, police said they located the vehicle and a possible driver of the car, and the collision remains under investigation.

Police had earlier asked for the publics help identifying the vehicle, which was described as a newer model smaller white or silver SUV similar to a Jeep Cherokee with front end damage.

A regional accident reconstruction team assisted in the investigation into the crash.

Anyone with information about the collision is asked to contact Suffield Police at 860-668-3870 and speak to Sgt Justin Nelson.
WASHINGTON (AP)  U.S. officials say they believe Iran was behind the drone attack last week at the military outpost in southern Syria where American troops are based.

Officials said Monday the U.S. believes that Iran resourced and encouraged the attack, but that the drones were not launched from Iran. They were Iranian drones, and Iran appears to have facilitated their use, officials said, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss details that have not been made public.

Officials said they believe the attacks involved as many as five drones laden with explosive charges, and that they hit both the U.S. side of al-Tanf garrison and the side where Syrian opposition forces stay.

There were no reported injuries or deaths as a result of the attack.

U.S. and coalition troops are based at al-Tanf to train Syrian forces on patrols to counter Islamic State militants. The base is also located on a road serving as a vital link for Iranian-backed forces from Tehran all the way to southern Lebanon and Israel.

Pentagon spokesman John Kirby declined to provide details when asked about the report during a news conference Monday. He called it a complex, coordinated and deliberate attack and said the U.S. has seen similar ones before from Shia militia groups that are backed by Iran. But he would not go into specifics and said he had no update on the munitions used in the attack.

Kirby also declined to say if troops were warned ahead of time or whether the U.S. intends to make a military response.

The protection and security of our troops overseas remains a paramount concern for the secretary, Kirby said, referring to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, and that if there is to be a response, it will be at a time and a place and a manner of our choosing, and we certainly won't get ahead of those kinds of decisions.

Pro-Iran media outlets have been saying that the attack on Tanf was carried out by Syrias allies  an apparent reference to Iran-backed groups  in retaliation for an attack days earlier near the historic Syrian town of Palmyra. Israel has been blamed for the attack, but U.S. officials say America was not involved with it.

You can consider that the strike on Tanf was an implementation of previous promises by Syrian allies to retaliate for Palmyra, according to an official with the so-called Axis of Resistance, an anti-Western political-military alliance that includes Iran, Syria, Hezbollah and other groups fighting alongside Syrian President Bashar Assad's forces.

The al-Tanf attack came in a period of rising tensions with Iran. The Biden administration this week said international diplomatic efforts to get Iran back into negotiations to return to a 2015 nuclear deal were at a critical place and that patience Is wearing thin.

The last major Iranian attack on U.S. forces was in January 2020, when Tehran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles on al-Asad air base in Iraq. U.S. and coalition troops were warned of the incoming missiles and were able to take cover, but more than 100 U.S. service members received traumatic brain injuries as a result of the blasts.

The Iran attack was in response to the U.S. drone strike earlier that month near the Baghdad airport that killed Iranian Gen. Qassem Soleimani and Iraqi militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhandis.

Two months after the al-Asad assault, U.S. fighter jets struck five sites in retaliation, targeting Iranian-backed Shiite militia members believed responsible for the January rocket attack.

_____ Associated Press writer Bassem Mroue in Beirut contributed to this report.
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TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /CNW/ - George Weston Limited ("George Weston" or the "Company") (TSX: WN) today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to sell its Weston Foods fresh and frozen bakery businesses to affiliated entities of FGF Brands Inc. ("FGF") for aggregate cash consideration of $1.2 billion. The purchase price represents approximately a 10.0x multiple on the 2021 estimated EBITDA of the Weston Foods fresh and frozen bakery businesses. The fresh and frozen bakery businesses comprised approximately 75% of Weston Foods' 2020 net sales. George Weston continues to be committed to selling its remaining ambient business  comprised of cookies, cones, crackers and wafers, and is actively engaged in that process.

"The Weston Foods business has been the foundation for the Weston Group in Canada since its establishment in 1882 and the decision to sell it was a difficult one" said Galen G. Weston, the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "However, we are pleased that the purchaser of the fresh and frozen businesses is FGF, another long-standing family business with a strong presence in bakery and a significant footprint in Canada. With FGF as the new owner, the business will be in good hands."

"We are thrilled to be acquiring the fresh and frozen businesses of Weston Foods, a Canadian company with over 100 years of baking experience," said FGF Co-Founder Tejus Ajmera. "And we look forward to building on that legacy by investing in people, facilities, and innovation across our entire operations, in collaboration with Weston Foods president Luc Mongeau and his team."

"FGF remains a startup at heart and this acquisition allows us to bring that same drive for disruption to more teams, brands, and customers than ever before, as we pursue our vision to become the world's greatest baker," added FGF Co-Founder Ojus Ajmera.

George Weston announced on March 23, 2021 that it decided to sell its bakery segment and to focus on its Retail and Real Estate businesses. The Company expects to return the net proceeds from the transaction to shareholders through share repurchases over time. In the interim, the Company is committed to ensuring that a smooth transition plan is in place as Weston Foods continues to support its customers and workforce.

The transaction is subject to compliance with the Competition Act (Canada) and the Hart-Scott Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976 and other closing conditions customary in transactions of this nature. Subject to the receipt of all regulatory approvals and satisfaction of customary transaction closing conditions, George Weston expects to close the transaction before the end of the first quarter of 2022.

Houlihan Lokey and CIBC Capital Markets are serving as financial advisors to George Weston and Mayer Brown LLP and Torys LLP are acting as legal advisors.

Scotiabank is serving as financial advisor to FGF and Stikeman Elliott LLP and Kirkland & Ellis LLP are acting as legal advisors.

About Weston Foods' Fresh and Frozen Bakery Businesses

The Weston Foods fresh and frozen bakery businesses comprise a leading North American manufacturer, serving retail and foodservice customers with packaged fresh bread and rolls and alternatives, as well as frozen and artisan bread and rolls, cakes, donuts and pies throughout Canada and the United States. The company produces private label products and many wellknown brands including Wonder, ACE Bakery, Country Harvest, D'Italiano, Casa Mendosa, Dave's Killer Bread* and Gadoua.

About George Weston Limited

George Weston Limited is a Canadian public company founded in 1882. The Company operates through its three reportable operating segments, Loblaw Companies Limited, Choice Properties Real Estate Investment Trust and Weston Foods. Loblaw provides Canadians with grocery, pharmacy, health and beauty, apparel, general merchandise, financial services and wireless mobile products and services. Choice Properties owns, manages and develops a high-quality portfolio of commercial retail, industrial, office and residential properties across Canada. The Weston Foods operating segment includes a leading North American bakery that offers packaged bread and rolls in Canada as well as frozen and artisan bread and rolls, cakes, donuts, pies, biscuits and alternatives throughout Canada and the United States.

About FGF

FGF Brands is a Canadian, family-owned bakery company founded in 2004. "A technology company that bakes," FGF combines innovations in robotics, AI systems, and supply chain solutions with a commitment to making quality food with the cleanest possible ingredients. FGF operates in 7 bakery categories and owns multiple brands, including Stonefire Authentic Flatbreads and Simple Joys Bakery, manufactured in bakery locations across Canada and the United States, with its Home Office in Toronto, Ontario. FGF takes a product-first approach to its business, with a focus on long-term capital investment, focused Team Member development, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release may contain forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities legislation, which reflects the Company's current expectations regarding future events. There can be no assurance regarding (a) the ability of the Company to successfully complete the sale of the Weston Foods fresh and frozen businesses as described in this press release or to sell its cookies, cones, crackers and wafers business, (b) the proceeds to be derived from the transactions referenced in this press release, and (c) the timing of closing of any such sale.

Forward-looking information is based on a number of assumptions and is subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the Company's control, that could cause actual results and events to differ materially from those that are disclosed in or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the factors discussed in the Company's current Annual MD&A and Annual Information Form and uncertainty relating to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The Company does not undertake any obligation to update such forward-looking information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable law. All forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof and are qualified by these cautionary statements.

Non- GAAP Financial Measures

The Company uses non-GAAP financial measures as it believes these measures provide useful information to both management and investors with regard to accurately assessing its financial performance and financial condition. Management uses non-GAAP financial measures to exclude the impact of certain expenses and income that must be recognized under GAAP when analyzing underlying consolidated and segment operating performance, as the excluded items are not necessarily reflective of the underlying operating performance and make comparisons of underlying financial performance between periods difficult. The Company excludes additional items if it believes doing so would result in a more effective analysis of underlying operating performance. The exclusion of certain items does not imply that they are non-recurring. These measures do not have a standardized meaning prescribed by GAAP and therefore they may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other publicly traded companies, and should not be construed as an alternative to other financial measures determined in accordance with GAAP. For reconciliation to, and a description of, the Company's non-GAAP financial measures and financial metrics, see Section 8 "Non-GAAP Financial Measures" of the Management Discussion and Analysis in the Company's 2021 Second Quarter Report.

* TM of Flowers Bakeries Brands, LLC. Used under license.

SOURCE George Weston Limited

For further information: Shareholders, security analysts and investment professionals should direct their requests to Roy MacDonald, Vice President, Investor Relations, at the Company's Executive Office or by e-mail at [email protected]

Related Links

www.weston.ca


As per sources, the Congress party may hold the organisational election on September 6, 2022 and have its president by October.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi will be presiding over a meeting with core party leaders to discuss the upcoming Assembly elections to Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur and Goa, among other issues. The meeting will be held at party headquarters.

As per the party sources on Monday, a meeting of Congress general secretaries and state in-charges will be held on October 26 at All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters to discuss membership, training, agitation program and strategy for the upcoming assembly polls. This meeting will be presided by party president Sonia Gandhi.

Pradesh Congress Committee presidents will also be present as well, sources said. During Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on October 16, it was decided that organisation polls will be held next year and for that, a membership drive will be launched from November 1.

As per sources, the Congress party may hold the organisational election on September 6, 2022 and have its president by October. As frontal organisations like Indian Youth Congress, NSUI, Mahila Congress and the partys Social Media department have passed a resolution to make Rahul Gandhi as party president, it is expected chorus will be heard in the meeting on Tuesday.

In the previously held CWC meet, CMs of Rajasthan, Punjab and Chhattisgarh Ashok Gehlot, Charanjit Singh Channi and Bhupesh Baghel, respectively, and other leaders had requested Rahul Gandhi to take charge of the party president post. On this, Congress Spokesperson Randeep Surjewala confirmed that Gandhi has assured to consider their requests.
Earlier on Monday, Shah visited the CRPF camp and interacted with the security personnel at Lethpora in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Tuesday paid tribute to 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawans, killed in the 2019 terror attack, at the memorial in Jammu and Kashmirs Pulwama. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also laid a wreath at the memorial, paying tribute to the personnel killed in the 2019 Pulwama terror attack.

Earlier on Monday,

Amit Shah spends night at CRPF camp in J-Ks Pulwama, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday visited the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp and interacted with the security personnel at Lethpora in Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. Shah spent the night at the CRPF camp in Lethpora in the Pulwama district. Shah and Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha also had dinner with the paramilitary forces.

I wanted to spend time with the soldiers of the paramilitary forces, meet them, know their experiences and difficulties and see the spirit to work. Thats why we had lunch with our brave soldiers at Lethpora CRPF camp in Pulwama and will also take rest of the night with the soldiers in the camp.@crpfindia, tweeted Amit Shah.

The Union Home Minister, who is on a three-day visit from October 23-25, to the union territory for the first time since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, offered prayers at Kheer Bhawani Durga temple in Ganderbal district earlier on Monday.

On Sunday, he visited forward areas at the Makwal border in Jammu and Kashmir with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and interacted with jawans and local residents. He also met with the delegations of Kashmiri Pandits, Gujjar-Bakarwal community, Pahadi community and Jammu and Kashmir Chamber of Commerce in Jammu.

On Saturday, he met families of soldiers and civilians killed this month in a spate of terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir.
LONDON (AP)  Queen Elizabeth II has canceled her planned appearance at the U.N. climate conference in Glasgow, accepting doctors' advice to rest just days after spending the night in a hospital for tests.

The 95-year-old monarch announced Tuesday that she has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the reception on Nov. 1  a move that will dash the hopes of Britain's Conservative government, which is anxious to show the importance of the session to the fate of the planet. The climate conference runs from Oct. 31 to Nov. 12 and her attendance was meant to kick it off in style and splendor.

Her Majesty is disappointed not to attend the reception but will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded video message, Buckingham Palace said.

The news came after the sovereign held virtual audiences Tuesday at Windsor Castle  the first since revelations that her doctors ordered her to rest last week.

The sovereign greeted the ambassadors from South Korea and Switzerland during her first technology-aided appearance since she was driven to Londons King Edward VIIs Hospital on Oct. 20 for preliminary investigations. She returned to her Windsor Castle home at lunchtime the next day and has been taking on light duties since.

The queen underwent the medical tests after she canceled a scheduled trip to mark 100 years since the creation of Northern Ireland, and the palace said she had reluctantly accepted advice to rest for a few days. The matter was not related to COVID-19.

Her doctors ordered rest last week after the monarch who likes to be seen by the people carried out a hectic series of events. She held audiences with diplomats, had a reception at Windsor Castle for global business leaders and attended the horse races at Ascot.

Her hospital visit last week came amid general disquiet about Elizabeths health. Days earlier, she was seen using a walking stick at a Westminster Abbey service marking the centenary of the Royal British Legion, an armed forces charity. Although she had used a cane in 2003, it was after she underwent knee surgery.

The queens husband, Prince Philip, died in April 2021 at 99. Elizabeth has enjoyed robust health throughout her life, becoming Britains longest-lived and longest-reigning monarch. She is due to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee  70 years on the throne  next year.
NEW HAVEN  A 14-year-old Hamden youth has died after being shot near Waterbury Monday, according to school officials.

Waterbury police Monday night said a 14-year-old was in critical and life-threatening condition after being dropped off with a gunshot wound to the head.

Justin Harmon, director of marketing and communications for New Haven Public Schools, said the teen attended High School in the Community. His family, Harmon said, reported to the district that he had died as of Tuesday afternoon.

Harmon said students at the school had been offered counseling as they deal with the loss. The school will be holding a memorial so students can share memories and grieve together, he said.

He declined to comment further on the matter, citing the familys desire for privacy.

In a statement Monday, Waterbury police said they were notified the boy had been dropped off at St. Marys Hospital shortly before 4 a.m. for medical treatment of a sustained gunshot wound to the back of his head.

The boy was transported to the Connecticut Childrens Medical Center in Hartford, according to police.

At this time it is believed that that this incident occurred outside of the city limits, said Waterbury police spokesman Lt. Ryan Bessette. He said the departments detective bureau was actively investigating the incident, but said no further information was available.

william.lambert@hearstmediact.com
BRASILIA, Brazil (AP)  A Brazilian Senate committee recommended on Tuesday that President Jair Bolsonaro face a series of criminal indictments for actions and omissions related to the worlds second highest COVID-19 death toll.

The 7-to-4 vote was the culmination of a six-month committee investigation of the governments handling of the pandemic. It formally approved a report calling for prosecutors to try Bolsonaro on charges ranging from charlatanism and inciting crime to misuse of public funds and crimes against humanity, and in doing so hold him responsible for many of Brazils more than 600,000 COVID-19 deaths.

The president has denied wrongdoing, and the decision on whether to file most of the charges will be up to Prosecutor-General Augusto Aras, a Bolsonaro appointee who is widely viewed as protecting him. The allegation of crimes against humanity would need to be pursued by the International Criminal Court.

Sen. Omar Aziz, the chairman of the inquiry, said he would deliver the recommendation to the prosecutor-general Wednesday morning. Aras' office said the report would be carefully reviewed as soon as it is received.

Regardless of whether charges are filed, the report is expected to fuel criticism of the divisive president, whose approval ratings have slumped ahead of his 2022 reelection campaign  in large part because of Brazils outsize COVID-19 death toll. The investigation itself has for months provided a drumbeat of damaging allegations.

Since the start of the pandemic, Bolsonaro has sabotaged local leaders' restrictions on activity aimed at stopping the virus' spread, saying the economy needed to keep humming so the poor did not suffer worse hardship. He also has insistently touted an anti-malaria drug long after broad testing showed it isn't effective against COVID-19, assembled crowds without wearing masks and sowed doubt about vaccines.

Bolsonaro has defended himself by saying he was among the few world leaders courageous enough to defy political correctness and global health recommendations, and that he hasn't erred in the slightest.

The report's author, Sen. Renan Calheiros, first presented the nearly 1,200-page document last week. It says that by insisting on treatment with the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine as practically the only government policy to fight the pandemic, Jair Bolsonaro strongly collaborated for COVID-19's spread in Brazilian territory" and as a result is "the main person responsible for the errors committed by the federal government during the pandemic.

Committee members in the so-called G7 group of senators who arent from Bolsonaros base agreed on most of the points in Calheiros' report. They met Monday to hammer out final adjustments to the text.

Changes include recommending charges for 13 additional people, many of them current or former Health Ministry employees, as well as the governor of hard-hit Amazonas state. The final report recommends charges against two companies and 78 people in all, including Bolsonaro, administration officials, dozens of allies and the presidents three sons, who are politicians.

It also adds an additional violation for allegedly spreading false news following Bolsonaro's live broadcast on social media last week claiming incorrectly that people in the U.K. who received two vaccine doses are developing AIDS faster than expected.

The report also contains recommendations for two counts of "crime of responsibility, which are grounds for impeachment. But Lower House Speaker Arthur Lira, a staunch Bolsonaro ally, would have to bring a vote on whether to open impeachment proceedings  something seen as highly unlikely considering Lira is currently sitting on more than 120 other impeachment requests, according to information from the legislative body.

Sen. Flavio Bolsonaro, one of the president's sons, called the report legally weak and politically motivated.

The intent of some senators on the investigative committee is to cause the maximum amount of wear and tear on the president, he told journalists.

Minutes after the inquiry was finished, former U.S. President Donald Trump said in a statement that he endorses the Brazilian leader.

President Jair Bolsonaro and I have become great friends over the past few years. He fights hard for, and loves, the people of Brazil  just like I do for the people of the United States, Trump said. Brazil is lucky to have a man such as Jair Bolsonaro working for them. He is a great President and will never let the people of his great country down!

An earlier draft had recommended the president also be indicted for homicide and genocide, but that was scrapped even before its presentation last week. Some committee members opposed such charges, while others expressed concern that bombastic claims could undermine the reports credibility.

The Senate committees final hearing on the inquiry Tuesday ended with a moment of silence for victims of the virus in Brazil.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A Republican secretary of state who challenged former President Donald Trump's false claims of election fraud in 2020 will lead the Biden administration's effort to protect future elections.

Kim Wyman, 59, has led elections in Washington state for years, and she was reelected to a third term in November  the lone statewide-elected Republican on the West Coast. She will serve as the election security lead for the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the agency responsible for safeguarding U.S. elections, the agency announced Tuesday.

As I assume this new role, I remain committed to protecting the integrity of our elections and working closely with local and state elections officials nationwide to bolster this foundational pillar of our democracy, Wyman said in a statement.

She will serve as the governments top liaison to the states, a job that was high profile before 2020, and will only be more so following Trumps false claims about the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden, and the embracing of those false claims by other members of the GOP.

Trump and his allies made  and still make  false assertions that there was rampant election fraud in 2020, despite evidence to the contrary. Former Attorney General William Barr told AP there was no sign of widespread fraud. As Trump railed over the election, leaders of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency stated publicly that it was the safest election in history. One was fired by Trump shortly after.

Scores of lawsuits filed by Trump and his allies over claims of possible election fraud were dismissed by the courts, including by Trump-appointed federal judges.

Still, millions of Americans believe the 2020 election was stolen from Trump. That misinformation prompted thousands to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 in a violent but failed effort to stop the certification of Biden's win.

Homeland Security officials said Wyman will help lead the next round of elections in a non-partisan manner to ensure the security and resilience of our election infrastructure."

Kims reputation is second to none and I am personally thrilled to have her lead CISAs election security efforts," CISA director Jen Easterly said in a statement. Free and fair elections are a cornerstone of our democracy; Kim and I share a common view that ensuring the security of our elections must be a non-partisan effort.

Wymans resignation, effective Nov. 19, means that Democratic Gov. Jay Inslee can appoint a temporary successor, who would serve until the general election in November 2022, which will determine who will serve the remainder of Wymans four-year term.

Unlike vacancies in other partisan offices, like the Legislature or county offices, the governor is not limited to appointing someone from a specific political party, which means that Republicans could lose their hold on the office for the first time in more than 50 years.

When asked about the possibility he could appoint someone from the GOP to the position, Inslee spokeswoman Tara Lee said via email that they were not ruling anything out.

"It is possible," she wrote.

The next regular election for secretary of state will be in November 2024.

In a message posted to Twitter Tuesday, Wyman said the hardest part of the decision was leaving her post before the conclusion of her term.

However, the threats to our countrys elections system continue each day and they must be met with a combined effort by IT and cybersecurity experts alongside election professionals at the local, state, and federal level, she wrote.

Last October, Wyman published the book Elections 2020: Controlling Chaos: How Foreign Interference, a Global Pandemic, and Political Polarization Threaten U.S. Democracy.

She was a constant presence on national networks in the weeks leading up to the 2020 election, extolling the safety and security of the vote-by-mail system in her state, a process in place there for years. She disputed Trump's claims that mail-in voting was fraudulent.

If the president wants to rant and rave about how insecure vote by mail is or how our elections are going to be rigged, then Im going to talk about the security measures that Washington state put in place, she told AP in September 2020. And Im going to spend my time talking about the facts, and no, Im not going to get mired down in some sort of political debate and posturing.

Before the states 12 members of the Electoral College cast their votes for Biden in Olympia, Washington, in December, Wyman got emotional while talking to them about the vote they were about to take.

While some people continue to question the outcome of this election, average citizens from all walks of life will step up today to exercise their responsibility to perform their constitutional duty to the best of their ability, she said. This is an important ceremony. This is the American way of governance. This is democracy in action.

Inslee noted Wyman's certification of the 2020 election results, saying in a written statement: When confronted with the choice of adopting election lies being promulgated by powerful forces in her party, Kim chose to stand by the will of the people."

She is a great fit to lead these crucial efforts at the national level and I have no doubt that her expertise, energy and focus will lead to more secure elections and help restore faith in the democratic process," he wrote.

Wyman has never shied away from the fact that shes a Republican, but has said she believes shes approached the job in a nonpartisan way.

Its how you do the work every day, and my job is to inspire confidence in every voter no matter if they are a staunch Democrat or a hardcore Republican, she said last year.

___

La Corte reported from Olympia, Washington.
NEW YORK (AP)  Days before the final votes are cast in an election likely to make him Manhattans first Black district attorney, Alvin Bragg is showing just how different a prosecutor he might be.

Instead of stumping for votes all day, the Democrat is spending the last week of his campaign questioning New York City police officials in a rare judicial inquiry into the 2014 police chokehold death of Eric Garner, whose pleas of I cant breathe became a rallying cry of the Black Lives Matter movement.

Bragg, a civil rights lawyer and former federal prosecutor, is representing Garners mother as she presses the city for more public accountability for officers and commanders who were involved in Garner's death, none of whom were criminally charged.

I cant think of a case thats been more emotionally significant to me as a lawyer, Bragg told The Associated Press in an interview before testimony in the judicial inquiry began. The fact that we sit here, seven years after Mr. Garner was killed and dont know basic facts, thats an embarrassment.

Bragg, 48, won a tough Democratic primary and is now the prohibitive favorite in the Nov. 2 general election against Republican Thomas Kenniff.

The winner succeeds retiring District Attorney Cyrus Vance Jr., taking over high-profile cases including the prosecution of former President Donald Trumps company and its longtime finance chief on tax fraud charges.

Trump himself remains under investigation by the office after Vance led a multiyear fight to get access to the Republican's tax records.

Bragg campaigned partly on a promise to change the culture of the D.A.s office, emphasizing transparency and trust as integral to public safety.

He says he'll decline to pursue many low-level offenses, looking for alternatives to prosecuting crimes of poverty, such as stealing small amounts of food, and de-emphasizing conviction rates.

In taking on the city over Garner's death, Bragg said he's setting the tone for how he'll proceed as district attorney.

Some people have said, How can you run for district attorney and sue the city? Thats the whole point. The whole point is that safety and fairness are compatible. Indeed, they are inextricably interwoven, Bragg said, explaining that people wont be inclined to help officers solve crimes if they cant trust them.

Braggs own experiences with the criminal justice system mirror those of many of his would-be constituents. Growing up in Harlem during the 1980s crack cocaine epidemic, he was held at gunpoint six times  three times by police. Hes had a knife held to his throat, a body at his door and, as an adult, opened his home to a brother-in-law just released from prison.

His election opponent, Kenniff, is a defense attorney and former prosecutor and Army Judge Advocate General. Kenniff works in Manhattan but is registered to vote on Long Island. He says hell establish residency in Manhattan if elected.

Kenniff says hed be a more conventional district attorney: tough on crime and opposed to the state bail reforms two years ago that eliminated pretrial incarceration for many charges. Kenniff wants to rebuild the office, which he says has been plagued by attrition.

With me, youre going to get a more traditional prosecutor. Somebody whos willing to play the role that prosecutors have traditionally played in the city, in this country, probably in most places, Kenniff told The Associated Press. Im going to emphasize public safety and prosecuting crimes seriously, but fairly. As far as overall philosophy, its going to be a pro-public safety prosecutors office.

The next district attorney will lead an office of about 500 lawyers who occasionally have to take on cases involving the rich, powerful or famous.

Vance was sometimes criticized over his 12 years in office for decisions not to prosecute the powerful, including dropping sexual assault charges against former International Monetary Fund chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn and declining to pursue an Italian model's groping allegations against film mogul Harvey Weinstein before trying and convicting him last year of rape after scores of other women came forward.

If elected D.A., Bragg would be the latest in a wave of progressive, reform-minded prosecutors across the country, joining a group that includes Kim Foxx in Chicago and Larry Krasner in Philadelphia.

Bragg wants to eliminate cash bail entirely, saying theres no data to support claims that people released from jail are behind surges in shootings and other violent crime. Bragg says the current system punishes the poor  exacerbating whats seen as a two-tiered system of justice.

As a top deputy to New Yorks attorney general, he oversaw a lawsuit that shut down Trumps charitable foundation. Prior to that, Bragg led a unit investigating killings by police.

Bragg has been very clear that hes embracing the progressive playbook and he is going to do a lot of things that probably wouldnt have been done by a more traditional DAs office, says Vances former chief assistant district attorney Daniel R. Alonso.

The question is, how far will Bragg go? And, will he be able to implement the reforms that hes promised to implement while still ensuring all of us that we are maintaining public safety as well as possible? says Alonso, a Manhattan resident whos now a partner at Buckley LLP.

Bragg, a Harvard Law graduate, said he saw how the legal system could also show compassion while clerking for the late U.S. District Judge Robert P. Patterson Jr. No one seemed to notice when a shivering man walked into court, Bragg said, but Patterson did and dispatched Bragg to fetch him a jacket.

I think what made Bragg so successful was that he was asking voters to think about not just who we lock up but also the communities were leaving behind in doing so and the circumstances from which people are coming, says Christina Greer, a political science professor at Fordham University.

___

Follow Michael Sisak on Twitter at twitter.com/mikesisak
WASHINGTON (AP)  The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 insurrection at the U.S. Capitol deferred its requests for several dozen pages of records from former President Donald Trump's administration at the White House's urging, but President Joe Biden again rejected the former president's invocation of executive privilege on hundreds of additional pages.

In a letter to the National Archives and Records Administration, Biden counsel Dana Remus repeated that the president has determined that an assertion of executive privilege is not in the best interests of the United States, and therefore is not justified for two tranches of documents sent to the White House for review last month.

The panel is investigating the violent Capitol siege by Trump's supporters that day and has sought documents connected to the former president, who has falsely said he won the presidential election and that morning urged his crowd of followers to fight like hell."

Obtained Monday by The Associated Press, the letter from Remus reveals that the committee deferred its request for nearly 50 pages of documents as a result of an accommodation process with the Biden White House. That process allows the White House to protect some records that may be privileged without formally blocking their release.

The letter from Remus came two weeks after the White House said it would not block an earlier, more sweeping tranche of documents after Trump sought to shield them. Biden has made clear that he does not want to block the committee's work, and Remus wrote in both letters that the documents could shed light on events within the White House on and about January 6 and bear on the Select Committees need to understand the facts underlying the most serious attack on the operations of the Federal Government since the Civil War.

Still, the White House's desire to shield some documents shows that the process of approving releases to the Jan. 6 committee won't always be simple, as presidents have long relied on their ability to assert executive privilege to protect their internal communications and deliberations. Biden's decisions to release certain documents could set precedents for future administrations and could eventually apply to his own records when he is out of office.

In a statement, a spokesman for the Jan. 6 panel said that lawmakers welcomed Biden's decision to allow the production of the two additional sets of records and that the committee had agreed to defer action on certain records.

The Select Committee has not withdrawn its request for those records and will continue to engage with the executive branch to ensure we get access to all the information relevant to our probe, said spokesman Tim Mulvey.

Even though Biden has approved the release of most of the documents, their ultimate fate will now be decided by the courts. Trump filed suit earlier this month to try to block the archives from releasing his records.

In the lawsuit, Trump called the document requests a vexatious, illegal fishing expedition that was untethered from any legitimate legislative purpose, according to the papers filed in federal court in the District of Columbia.

The former president's lawyer has also sought to block testimony from some of his former aides, including longtime ally Steve Bannon. The House voted to hold Bannon in contempt last week after he defied the panel's subpoena and his lawyer said that Trump would assert privilege over his testimony.
ORANGE  The town received $107,000 in federal CARES Act funds to cover about $110,000 in COVID-19 related expenses, including overtime, legal fees, personal protective equipment and office modifications, according to municipal records.

The records were released through the Freedom of Information Act by John M. Cifarelli, the towns director of finance and administration.

The state was allocated $1.4 billion by the Treasury Department for the Coronavirus Relief Fund that was established by the CARES Act, according to the state.

In Orange, the single biggest chunk of the money in the COVID-19 related expenses was about $44,000 for office modifications, specifically three air handling units, two of them costing $14,256 each and one for $12,135, records provided by the town show.

The documents dont specify where the equipment was installed.

The towns COVID-19 expenditures included $15,986 in police overtime at COVID-19 vaccine clinics; $6,441 for a public health nurse and $9,970 for PPE, the records show.

There also was a $5,552 expenditure in legal fees to Town Attorney Vincent Marino, who had to defend a lawsuit in U.S. District Court brought by the now-late Rev. Bernard Champagne of Our Lady of Sorrows Church against Dr. Amir Mohammad, in Mohammads official capacity as the health director for the town.

Champagnes attorneys alleged in the complaint that Mohammad overstepped his authority in canceling religious services in the community during the coronavirus pandemic. The suit claimed Mohammads actions violated the First and Fourteenth amendments to the U.S. Constitution, as well as the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act.

Arnold Gold / Hearst Connecticut Media

Christian Young, an attorney with the Bridgeport law firm Cohen and Wolf, filed the federal lawsuit last year on behalf of the church. He said at the time it is the first time in state history government officials had ordered a church closed.

Our Lady of Sorrows Church is a small, traditionalist Catholic parish. It is a pre-Vatican II church and Champagne was known for offering Masses in Latin. It is independent, not part of the Archdiocese of Hartford.

Marino had noted in a statement at the time the suit was filed that the town respects, honors and works to protect everyones constitutional rights.

We all have compromised certain liberties in this time of pandemic. The Town of Orange acknowledges that citizens have a constitutional interest to assemble and worship, but the public has a greater interest in saving human lives. It is no exaggeration to recognize that the stakes for the residents of the Town are life-or-death, Marino said in a statement last year.

Marino at the time also noted that the towns order complied with Gov. Ned Lamonts orders at the time canceling in-person worship services, not worship entirely, and that it was designed to slow the spread of this deadly pandemic and preserve human life.

The case is being litigated and Champagnes estate now is the plaintiff, Marino said. Champagne died in April 2021, according to his obituary.

According to the state Office of Police and Management, the CARES Act can be used for: Necessary expenditures due to the COVID-19 public health emergency; Costs that were not budgeted; and Costs incurred between March 1, 2020, and December 30, 2020.

According to the records provided by Cifarelli, other COVID-19 costs incurred by the town included:

 $4, 949 for cleaning supplies.

 $2,088 for supplies to disinfect and clean buildings.

 $8,640 for IT equipment, including a $1,773 laptop, $2,388 and $2,149 Team viewers related to Zoom use.

 Zero dollars in Hazard Pay, as listed on the documents.

 $1,752 to the local health department.

 $9, 970 for PPE, including $4,720 for KN95 masks.

 $11,050 for police work at vaccine clinics, non-overtime.
The state Medical Examining Board ranked 37th in the nation in the annual rate of serious disciplinary actions the board took against physicians accused of wrongdoing from 2017 to 2019, according to a Public Citizen report issued earlier this year.

Connecticuts board averaged about 13 serious disciplinary actions per year in 2017, 2018 and 2019, according to Public Citizen. The rankings were based on the number of serious disciplinary actions taken by states per 1,000 physicians. Connecticuts rate was 0.65 per 1,000 physicians  Kentuckyhad the highest rate of serious disciplinary actions at 2.29 per 1,000 physicians, the report said. Public Citizen defines a serious disciplinary action as one that has a clear effect on a physicians ability to practice.

The medical boards, which oversee the discipline of physicians in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, largely are unfunded or underfunded, are not adequately staffed, are reactive to complaints rather than initiating proactive investigations, and have little oversight by state officials or legislators, the report said.

They are not doing what they are mandated to do, said Dr. Sidney Wolfe, founder and senior adviser of the Public Citizens Health Research Group and one of the authors of the report. So, what is happening is they are leaving tens of thousands of patients exposed to doctors who shouldnt be practicing.

Complaints filed against physicians in Connecticut can take months and sometimes years to investigate and adjudicate. In one recent case, a psychiatrist was allowed to practice while a 2018 complaint was investigated and discipline negotiated on allegations that he had failed to monitor a patient on Lithium and failed to keep the patients records during the period under review. His case was settled in June with a $10,000 fine and 18 months of probation.

Attorney Kathryn Emmett, chairwoman of the Connecticut board, said the Public Citizen report doesnt reveal the whole picture. Emmett said she couldnt speak for the entire board but noted that comparing states by the number of disciplines issued wasnt the best way to assess their effectiveness.

I think that the idea that the greatest number of serious disciplines can be used is faulty, Emmett said. I dont think it shows whether the board is accomplishing its goal of protecting the public.

But at least two public members of the board share the national advocacy groups concerns. Jean Rexford, who has been a board member for more than a decade and founded the Connecticut Center for Patient Safety, told the board during its May meeting that she wanted to look at whether it was doing enough to address the safety of the public.

I think the legislation that chartered us was many, many years ago, Rexford said. Is it time to take a look at that and bring it up to 2021? Do we need to have better consideration of transparency? Ive been feeling incredibly powerless on Zoom [where the meetings are now conducted] but also powerless in our role in protecting the public, Rexford said before suggesting that a committee of board members examine how we could keep current and do a better job.

Rexfords comments prompted the creation of a working group, which met in private for the first time on Sept. 28. The state Department of Public Health contends the meetings are administrative and not open to the public. The Connecticut Health Investigative Team has filed a complaint with the states Freedom of Information Commission on the denial of access to the working group meetings.

Med Boards Composition and Role

The med boards composition  which includes physicians, attorneys and public members  and its duties are laid out in a decades-old law that periodically has been updated. The board has no funding and no staff of its own. Any fines collected from disciplined physicians go into state coffers. All staff members are DPH employees who also deal with complaints against other professions. The board has no independent investigatory or policy-making powers, according to the statute.

The DPHs Practitioner Licensing and Investigations Section reviews complaints filed against physicians. The same investigators deal with complaints filed against dozens of other professions, including nurses, hair and nail salons, and veterinarians.

There are 18 full-time investigators within the unit who work on 1,200 to 1,500 complaints per year, said Section Chief Christian Andresen. There also is a hearing process for physicians who contest the charges. The agency receives about 450 complaints about physicians each year that result in an average of 43 disciplines per year, DPH officials said.

The DPH hires medical consultants to determine whether a physician facing a complaint has met the standard of care or has participated in activities that could be harmful to patients, Andresen said. The range of complaints that come before the medical examining board includes physicians practicing while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, physicians failing to diagnose serious illness accurately, physicians practicing with a serious mental illness, or physicians prescribing to patients without adequate oversight or controls.

Michele Jacklin, a public member of the med board, said the board is impotent and toothless compared to medical boards in other states. Other boards have budgets, publish newsletters and conduct seminars, Jacklin said during an interview. The Connecticut Medical Examining Board is totally reactive.

Jacklins concerns range from no orientation process for new board members to the range of fines that can be issued as a discipline, she said.

Other states routinely issue fines as high as $50,000, Jacklin said. In Connecticut, often the penalties are $1,000 to $5,000, which is a slap on the wrist for a physician.

State statute limits the fines for physician discipline to $25,000.

There are no staff members who can monitor state or national medical issues that may arise, including checking social media for state physicians who are spreading misinformation on COVID-19 vaccines, officials said.

Although a DPH spokesperson said the agency would investigate all complaints related to misinformation about COVID-19, it took more than five weeks for Andresen to act on an anonymous tip that a retired Durham physician was issuing fraudulent exemptions for COVID-19 vaccines and masks to anyone who sent her a self-addressed, stamped envelope, documents showed.

Since the complaint against Sue McIntosh was made anonymously, it took five weeks to triage before it was presented to Andresen to investigate, DPH officials said.

The board unanimously voted to suspend McIntoshs medical license on Sept. 24. A few days later, the DPH alerted all long-term care facilities in the state, which require staff to be vaccinated, to review their employees COVID-19 vaccine exemptions to see whether McIntosh had signed any.

The DPH has declined to provide any information on whether McIntosh had given exemptions to long-term care employees or any state employees, who also are mandated to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The board unanimously agreed to drop the charges against McIntosh last week after she voluntarily relinquished her medical license.

Under the current system, board members have no idea how many complaints have been filed, the substance of the complaints, or how many complaints have been dismissed, Jacklin said. The discipline is negotiated by DPH attorneys and then what comes to us is a consent order, she said. We basically cant ask any questions or get any other information other than what is in the consent order. All we can do is reject the consent order or rubber-stamp it.

In general, the board focuses on approving disciplines that educate and monitor physicians so that they improve and provide better care, said Emmett, the med boards chairwoman. I dont think theres good data to support that more discipline results in better care for the community, Emmett added.

But the board could be doing more to protect the public by providing orientation for all board members and by being kept up to date on state legislative happenings and national policy changes, Rexford and Jacklin said.

Rexford said other state boards moved to pass legislation based on a national workgroup report on physician sexual misconduct. I just feel as if we are missing the boat when I hear that and when I see what other groups are doing, Rexford said. At the very least, I would like Chris [Andresen] to attend meetings, I would like everybody to attend an orientation and I would like to feel that we were all working as a team.

This story was reported under a partnership with the Connecticut Health I-Team (c-hit.org), a nonprofit news organization dedicated to health reporting.
WEST HAVEN  The city has implemented emergency fiscal controls in response to former state Rep. Michael DiMassas alleged theft of $636,000 in pandemic assistance grant money that now require that all expenditures over $5,000 to be personally approved by Mayor Nancy Rossi or her executive assistant, Rossi said Monday night.

The mayors office would not normally be involved in this process, but I think its important, Rossi told the City Council. The requirement applies to all payments of $5,000 or greater, after normal department and finance office approvals, she said.

Rossi revealed the change five days after DiMassa was arrested and charged with one count of federal wire fraud, during the first council meeting after DiMassas arrest. It came three days after he resigned from his city job as administrative assistant to the City Council and on the day he resigned from his 116th District legislative seat.

Rossi spoke during a meeting that began with residents expressing their dismay, anguish and outrage that West Haven could be betrayed by someone in whom they have invested their trust.

It seems always West Haven gets the mud slapped in the face, said lifelong resident and onetime Republican Town Chairman Paul Frosoline. ... Im not blaming the mayor. Im not blaming the Finance Committee. Im blaming the process ...

If the first check ... was deposited in February, what happened to March, April, May and June? Frosolone asked. What happened to the finance director? What was he doing? ... Wheres the accountability from the finance office?

Some council members  and Rossi, herself  echoed those feelings of betrayal.

Its a slap in my face  its a slap in OUR face  and Im just heartbroken over it, said Allingtown Councilman Peter Massaro, D-6, who said he has known DiMassa since DiMassa was a child. What can we do to make sure that they pay restitution? he asked.

Im happy to hear that emergency controls are in place at a time when the public and council members are worried about funds walking out the door, said council Chairman Ron Quagliani, D-at-large.

It is terrible. It is gut wrenching, said Rossi.

There currently are two audits underway  one a forensic audit by CohnReznik which was commissioned by the state Office of Policy and Management, plus the citys regular annual audit by CliftonLarsonAllen, Rossi said.

The city will submit all documents and reports requested by the audit team, and I have assured the citys full cooperation to executive a smooth, facilitated and thorough investigation of these funds, she said.

When Rossi was asked what the normal amount of time might be for an audit, and whether the auditors would give intermittent updates, she said, They have not briefed me on how the information will come. As far as the forensic audit, Im not sure if they will wait until the end or if they are willing to give intermittent updates.

During the public comment session at the start of the meeting, Shawn Brown, of Highview Avenue, said its not the first time West Haven has had fiscal irregularities and the chickens are coming home to roost.

Were talking about $636,000 missing, Brown said. He says he has a problem with gambling. How long has it been present, he asked. He abused his authority. He had too much access to money, and you think hes a good guy. Thats not the route that we expect our representatives to take, Brown said of DiMassas alleged theft.

Longtime Allingtown resident Margaret Krzeminski told the council that last week was certainly a shock ... Now, are we going to get that money back that was taken from us? Have things been put in place for the remainder of the money?

It was certainly a shock because Id gotten to known that person. I really admired him, Krzeminski said. I certainly hope that more has been done to prevent it from happening again.

I dont know what else to say, but it certainly is sad, she said.

John Lewis, who ran against Rossi in the September primary and was executive assistant to former Mayor Ed OBrien, said, There should have been a monthly accounting ... We know that some of (the money) has gone one way, but wheres the rest of it?

Several council members offered questions and comment.

Councilwoman Elizabeth Johnston, D-3, asked, For the money going forward ... is there a way to create something that would share (information) with the public or the people who are asking about funds?

Rossi said she can contact the (forensic) auditor to see if theyll get updates ... but Im not part of that audit  nor should I be ... Auditors should be independent of the people that theyre auditing ... Just the facts  and thats what we want. We want answers, she said.

Its unfortunate, said Councilwoman Trenee McGee, D-7. She asked what the city is doing to ensure that its moving forward.

I dont think we can honestly move forward until we have the investigations, especially the forensic one, said Rossi. We have two excellent audit firms ... Im sure they will move as quickly as possible to get answers.

It takes time to heal from something like this, Rossi said.

Council Finance Committee Chairwoman Bridgette Hoskie, D-1, said that to instill public trust back in me, as finance chairwoman I would like to continue the monthly updates on the citys American Rescue Plan funding.

As you try to instill public trust in you, I think we as a City Council need to do that, as well, Hoskie said.

Councilman Barry Cohen, R-10, who is the Republican candidate for mayor in Tuesdays election, said, Im happy to know that we are doing the forensic audit.

Cohen urged the council and the mayor to listen to some of these people tonight... Theres no doubt that the public trust has been shattered ... We have to restore and regain the public trust, and we have to make sure that nothing like this every happens again...

It should never have happened, Cohen said. It should not happen.

mark.zaretsky

@hearstmediact.com
CAIRO (AP)  Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the prime minister, and thousands flooded the streets to protest the coup that threatened the countrys shaky progress toward democracy.

Security forces opened fire on some of them, and three protesters were killed, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee, which also said 80 people were wounded.

The takeover, which drew condemnation from the United Nations, the United States and the European Union, comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was supposed to hand the leadership of the council that runs the country over to civilians.

The U.N. Security Council scheduled an emergency closed meeting on the Sudan coup late Tuesday afternoon. The United States, United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Norway and Estonia requested the emergency consultations..

After the early morning arrests of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other senior officials, thousands demonstrated in the streets of the capital, Khartoum, and its twin city of Omdurman. They blocked streets and set fire to tires as security forces used tear gas to disperse them.

As plumes of smoke rose, protesters could be heard chanting, The people are stronger, stronger! and Retreat is not an option! Social media video showed crowds crossing bridges over the Nile to the center of the capital. The U.S. Embassy warned that troops were blocking parts of the city and urged the military to immediately cease violence.

Pro-democracy activist Dura Gambo said paramilitary forces chased protesters through some Khartoum neighborhoods.

Records from a Khartoum hospital obtained by The Associated Press showed some people admitted with gunshot wounds.

The head of the military, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, announced on national TV that he was dissolving the government and the Sovereign Council, a joint military and civilian body created soon after al-Bashirs ouster to run the country.

Burhan said quarrels among political factions prompted the military intervention. Tensions have been rising for weeks over the course and the pace of the transition to democracy in Sudan, a nation in Africa linked by language and culture to the Arab world.

The general declared a state of emergency and said the military will appoint a technocratic government to lead the country to elections, set for July 2023. But he made clear the military will remain in charge.

The Armed Forces will continue completing the democratic transition until the handover of the countrys leadership to a civilian, elected government, he said. He added that the constitution would be rewritten and a legislative body would be formed with the participation of young men and women who made this revolution.

The Information Ministry, still loyal to the dissolved government, called his speech an announcement of a seizure of power by military coup.

As darkness fell in Khartoum, barricades were still burning and occasional gunshots could be heard, said Volker Perthes, the U.N. special envoy for Sudan, at a briefing in New York.

President Joe Biden was briefed on Sudan in the morning, said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre. She added that the U.S. was deeply alarmed at reports of a military takeover" and called for the immediate release of the prime minister and other officials.

The actions today are in stark opposition to the will of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace, liberty and justice, Jean-Pierre said.

The Biden administration is suspending $700 million in emergency economic aid to Sudan that had been allocated to help the transition, said State Department spokesman Ned Price. He called it a pause, and urged the civilian-led government be immediately restored.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres strongly condemns the ongoing military coup detat in Khartoum and all actions that could jeopardize Sudans political transition and stability, said his spokesman, spokesman Stephane Dujarric.

Guterres also called for the release of the government officials, the spokesman said, as did the African Union. EU foreign affairs chief Joseph Borrell tweeted that he was following the events with the utmost concern.

Michelle Bachelet, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, warned that Sudan could slip backward, urging the military to free the officials, withdraw from the streets and settle differences with the transitional government through dialogue.

Since al-Bashir, who remains in prison, was forced from power, Sudan has tried to rid itself of the international pariah status it held under the autocrat. The country was removed from the U.S. list of state supporters of terrorism in 2020, opening the way for badly needed foreign loans and investment.

But Sudan has struggled with the shock of a number economic reforms called for by international lending institutions.

In recent weeks, there have been concerns the military might be planning a takeover, and in fact there was a failed coup attempt in September. Tensions only rose from there, as the country fractured along old lines, with more conservative Islamists who want a military government pitted against those who toppled al-Bashir in protests. In recent days, both camps have staged demonstrations.

Amid the standoff, the generals have called repeatedly for dissolving Hamdok's transitional government  and Burhan, who leads the ruling Sovereign Council, said frequently the military would only relinquish power to an elected government, an indication the generals might not stick to the plan to hand leadership of the body to a civilian sometime in November. The council is the ultimate decision-maker, though the Hamdok government is tasked with running Sudans day-to-day affairs.

As part of efforts to resolve the crisis, Jeffrey Feltman, the U.S. special envoy to the Horn of Africa, met with Sudanese officials over the weekend, and a senior Sudanese military official said he tried unsuccessfully to get the generals to stick to the agreed plan.

The arrests began a few hours later, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief media. The official said the prime minister and the others were being detained in a military camp outside Khartoum.

Perthes said he and Feltman, in parallel meetings with political and military leaders in recent weeks, had tried to urge a return to dialogue and against a coup, which he said would squander the achievements of the first two years of the transition.

State Department spokesman Price said Feltman warned Burhan and others that any unconstitutional changes in the government would have consequences.

The military has been emboldened in its dispute with civilian leaders by the support of tribal protesters, who blocked the countrys main Red Sea port for weeks. The two most senior military officials, Burhan and his deputy Gen. Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, also have close ties with Egypt and the wealthy Gulf nations of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The first reports of a possible military takeover emerged before dawn, and the Information Ministry later confirmed them, saying Hamdok and several senior government figures had been arrested. Internet access was widely disrupted and the state news channel played traditional patriotic music.

Hamdoks office denounced the detentions on Facebook as a complete coup. It said his wife was also arrested.

Sudan has suffered other coups since gaining its independence from Britain and Egypt in 1956. Al-Bashir came to power in 1989 in one such takeover, which removed the countrys last elected government.

Among those detained were senior government figures and political leaders, including the information and industry ministers, a media adviser to Hamdok and the governor of the state that includes the capital, according to the senior military official and another official. Both spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief the media.

After news of the arrests spread, the main pro-democracy group and two political parties appealed to the people to take to the streets. The Communist Party urged workers to protest what it described as a full military coup orchestrated by Burhan.

-

Associated Press writers Edith M. Lederer at the United Nations, Matthew Lee in Washington and Darlene Superville in Kearny, N.J., contributed to this report.
LANSING, Mich. (AP)  Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Tuesday directed the state to ensure that Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for children ages 5-11 will be quickly available if the federal government gives it the green light.

Her directive came the same day an advisory committee to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration endorsed the kid-size doses. The FDA is expected to authorize the shots within days, followed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention next week.

Republicans who control the Michigan Senate, meanwhile, passed bills that would prohibit health and school officials from requiring coronavirus vaccines for children if they lack full federal approval. The legislation also would bar school masking, including at board meetings, and COVID-19 testing requirements if students are asymptomatic. The Democratic governor likely will veto the measures if the House sends them to her desk.

The governor called the pending authorization for more kids a game changer that will protect kids as they attend school, participate in extracurricular activities, and see friends and family. The state, which has 825,000 5- to 11-year-olds, has pre-ordered 287,000 doses of the pediatric vaccine.

A study of elementary schoolchildren found that the Pfizer shots are nearly 91% effective at preventing symptomatic infection, even though the youngsters received just a third of the dose given to teens and adults.

My directive today ensures equitable, expedited distribution of the vaccines. Parents should sign up to protect their kids, Whitmer said in a statement.

So far, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has given full approval to one vaccine  Pfizer's  for people 16 and older. The Pfizer shot also has been given emergency use authorization for 12- to 15-year-olds. The other two COVID-19 vaccines being administered in the U.S.  Moderna's and Johnson & Johnson's  have emergency use authorization.

Vaccines offered by Moderna and Johnson & Johnson have been authorized on a emergency basis until the FDA grants full approval. About 45% of Michigan's 12- to 19-year-olds are fully vaccinated.

Michigan requires children to be vaccinated against diseases such as measles to enter school, day care and camps but allows medical, religious and other waivers. Although there has been no attempt to require COVID-19 vaccinations for preK-12 students, GOP senators said they were taking preemptive steps and standing up for parents' rights.

One of the main sponsors, Sen. Lana Theis of Brighton, said the bills would prevent schools from discriminating against kids if they do not get vaccinated, wear a mask or get tested when they have no symptoms.

Access to free public education is a guaranteed right in our state constitution, she said.

Democrats called the bills dangerous political rhetoric, noting that vaccines, masks and testing slow the spread of a deadly virus. State rules already let parents exempt their children from immunizations, they said.

This is patently pointless, said Sen. Erika Geiss of Taylor.

___

Follow David Eggert at https://twitter.com/DavidEggert00
A Niagara County Court jury deliberated for just over 6 1/2 hours on Monday, but did not appear to be close to returning a verdict in the murd
In this 2004 file photo, Zakaria Zubeidi, then leader in the Al Aqsa Martyrs Brigade in the West Bank, is carried by supporters during a presidential elections campaign rally in support of Mahmoud Abbas, in the West Bank town of Jenin. (AP Photo/Nasser Nasser, File)
Duane Cook, a resident at the Lockport Rehab & Health Center on Lincoln Avenue, celebrated his 100th birthday on Thursday. The resident talked about life in the last century, how it went from horse and buggy to cars and electricity, as well as some of the famous folks he's seen in his life.
Police detectives attached to Zone 12 Command headquarters of the Nigeria Police in Bauchi State have arrested a 70-year-old man, one Alhaji...





Police detectives attached to Zone 12 Command headquarters of the Nigeria Police in Bauchi State have arrested a 70-year-old man, one Alhaji Umaru Daura for defiling his neighbours seven-year-old daughter.

This was revealed in a press release signed by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer (ZPPRO), Thomas Goni and made available to newsmen in Bauchi on Tuesday.

Goni, a Superintendent of Police (SP), stated that the incident happened at Kawo Rauta village, in Toro Local Government Area of Bauchi State.

The zonal police image maker stated that the victims father, one Alhaji Habu, reported the case to the police, saying that, the suspect was caught red-handed defiling my seven-year-old daughter.

Goni added that the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 12, Bauchi, AIG Audu A. Madaki, has directed that the suspect be charged to court after completion of investigation.
President Muhammadu Buhari arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, at about 11.50 pm, for the Future Investment Initiative Institute c...

President Muhammadu Buhari arrived in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday, at about 11.50 pm, for the Future Investment Initiative Institute conference.

The President was received at King Khalid International Airport by the Deputy Governor of Riyadh, Prince Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Abdulaziz.

This was disclosed in a statement by Garba Shehu, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, on Tuesday.

President Buhari, alongside other world leaders, will participate in the opening ceremony of the event on Tuesday and the three-day plenary sessions focused on the theme for the 5th edition of the summit, Invest in Humanity.

Buhari had departed Abuja for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Monday.

The Nigerian leader would be joined at the 5th edition of the flagship investment event by business executives from Nigeria, bankers, captains of industry and energy experts to discuss issues on the future of investments across the globe.
Lai Mohammed, the Minister of Information and Culture, said Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq formed his cabinet without consulting him and other lea...

Lai Mohammed, the Minister of Information and Culture, said Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq formed his cabinet without consulting him and other leaders who helped him become governor.

The minister stated in a recent interview while addressing some concerns in the local politics of Kwara State, including allegations levelled against him by Gov. AbdulRazaq.

Lai Mohammed said: This is a man who formed his cabinet, without even consulting me. Yes. I was not consulted and Ive never complained to anybody.

The minister said the governor of Kwara State was never part of APC.

Lai Mohammed said: I say this with all sense of humility. I am a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He only came to join us in 2018, when Dr Bukola Saraki went back to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He added that Abdulrasaq does not understand what the APC brand of politics stands for.

Lai added that the governor had no business in politics and only tricked APC to become a governor.

He said:

You know they say oja okun kun in Yoruba, we say its night market kind of, and he convinced them and they sold to us and we all bought it, but as soon as he got the ticket, we realised that he had no money at all and thats why it now dawned on me that I had to go out and raise funds.

We started campaigning for political supremacy in Kwara long before he joined us.

Lai Mohammed also refuted the allegation that he embezzled campaign funds.
Former Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi II, has said the federal government is indulging in illegality by paying petroleum subsidy fro...

Former Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammad Sanusi II, has said the federal government is indulging in illegality by paying petroleum subsidy from the federation account.

The former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) governor spoke virtually as a panelist on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the just concluded Nigerian Economic Summit held in Abuja.

He also said the Nigerian daily oil consumption data is suspect thus there is endemic corruption in fuel subsidy payments.

This money coming from petrol belongs to the federation account, and the federal government doesnt have the constitutional right to pay subsidy on behalf of the federation.

So it is a fundamental constitutional issue because this is money that should go to the federal, states and local governments. Yet money that belongs to the federation is carried out as federal government expenditure. So, there are so many complex issues, legal and economic issues. We need to stop these issues he said.

He also advocated for the end of fuel subsidy and electricity subsidy, saying the money saved should be invested in critical sectors like education and health adding that the long-term gains far outweigh the short-term pains.

I have said this before even as a CBN Governor under the previous government. What I say is not of a particular government. Take petroleum subsidy.

In 2015 or 2016, Minister Ibe Kachukwu said Nigerian was importing 30 million litres of PMS per day after eliminating corruption. In 2019, the NNPC said we are importing 59 million litres per day after oil prices have gone up. And I have been asking the question, what happened between 2015 and 2019 that our oil consumption has almost double? he asked.

He noted that this is what also happened under the previous government. When oil prices go up, NNPC said they are importing more because of the arbitrage. Thus, when the oil prices go high, there is an incentive to inflate the number he noted.

On electricity tariff, he said it should also be stopped as even poorer countries are paying cost reflective tariffs and enjoying uninterrupted electricity.

The Chairman, the Nigerian Governors Forum and the Governor of Ekiti State, Mr. Kayode Fayemi, also agreed that subsidy payments had to end for resources to be free up for critical investments.

He also said that the government must focus on education and healthcare provision.
The Senate on Tuesday strongly condemned the proposal by the Federal Ministry of Health to borrow $200 million under the malaria programme...

The Senate on Tuesday strongly condemned the proposal by the Federal Ministry of Health to borrow $200 million under the malaria programme to buy mosquito nets in the 2022 budget.

A member of Senate Committee on Health, Senator Gershom Bassey made the condemnation during the 2022 budget defence of the Federal Ministry of Health

Bassey pointedly told the Permanent Secretary, Mahmuda Mamman that the proposal with respect to purchase of mosquito nets was a big issue, expressing concerns that borrowing $200 million was outrageous.

Committees condemnation was in response to the Permanent Secretarys earlier submission of the intention to borrow the amount for purchase of mosquito nets.

The panel further demanded for the total needs of the agency to ascertain if there was need for borrowing.

In his further clarification, the Executive Director, National Primary Heal Care Development Agency, NPHCDA, Dr. Faisal Shuaib noted that the $200 million was for importation and local production of mosquito nets.

Committee Chairman on Health, Senator Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe, in his reaction explained that said the idea of borrowing money from World Bank is money and job for the boys by somebody in Washington DC, adding that its consultancy services provided at the lower level of State and Local Government.
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With the sun shining through the windows at Wakin Bakin and the aromas of griddled bread and hot coffee commingling, a recent morning at this Uptown breakfast joint felt like another fresh start. But behind the scenes, for proprietor Conrad Chura it was just another day to wonder how hed make it to the next one.

All Im doing is trying to find a way to open the doors without losing money, said Chura. I need to keep my team together, because if I lose them, we lose it all.

That team has already dwindled to a handful of veteran staff. A business that once employed 45 people is now down to just five on payroll. Since reopening after Hurricane Ida, Wakin Bakins Prytania Street location operates only four days a week, while its Mid-City location remains closed.

Chura wants to build back, and he has long-running plans to expand. But right now, with business slow and debt running high, hes doing all he can to limit expenses and hold the line.

Wakin Bakin was left reeling by what many in the local restaurant business call a devastating double hit. After being bled white through the economic turmoil of the pandemic, Hurricane Ida brought weighty new costs and stripped away the business these restaurants need to recoup them.

It feels like an economic depression in the city after the storm, Chura said. Its really a struggle right now.

Its been two months since Ida hit southeast Louisiana. The powerful hurricane brought the worst damage to communities west of the city. But the storms impact still lingers in New Orleans and it has been sharply felt by local restaurants, especially the smallest players with the least financial and organizational resources.

Many in the business say thats because it came after the pandemic left their businesses vulnerable to any additional hit. Ida delivered a wallop, and now some are making stark assessments of their future.

Changing up to carry on

The hospitality industry nationwide has been among the hardest hit through the pandemic, contending with changing rules and restrictions along with steep increases in food prices and struggles to restaff after shutdowns forced massive layoffs.

A new survey from the National Restaurant Association found pessimism around the industry for anything like a speedy recovery. More than half of operators in the survey said business was worse than over the spring. Some 44% believe it will take another year before business conditions return to normal, and 19% believe they never will.

+4 Latest New Orleans restaurants to close post-Ida include Kebab, Pho Cam Ly Two more small New Orleans neighborhood restaurants have shut their doors for good, joining a roster of businesses to close in the weeks since

In another survey from the business networking group Alignable, 51% of restaurants reported being unable to pay rent in September, compared to an average 35% for small businesses across all categories.

Last week, the citys convention and visitors bureau, New Orleans & Co., started a new marketing campaign dubbed New Orleans Fall Food Celebration.

+11 'A game changer.' Pandemic propelled outdoor dining, New Orleans restaurants want to keep it Along the run of small strip mall storefronts on busy Earhart Boulevard, Nice Guys Bar & Grill has added something different: an outdoor o

Its an effort to drive more business to restaurants, and an acknowledgement of the losses restaurants have suffered. The campaign is taking its cues from NOLAxNOLA, which marketed a series of concerts and gigs at individual clubs around the city in lieu of the canceled fall Jazz Fest.

Most New Orleans-area restaurants are back open after Ida. Many new restaurants continue to debut and there's a pipeline of others on the way. Some restaurants that have been closed since the pandemic have returned recently.

Yet for many that have tried to fight through the undulating course of the crisis, the hurricane has pushed them to the brink.

The list of neighborhood spots to permanently close since the hurricane is growing. In the past week, the Vietnamese restaurant Pho Cam Ly and the falafel and doner spot Kebab joined the likes of Cavan and the Trolley Stop Cafe, which closed in September.

To claw back, some are culling their menus and hours to curtail costs, and others have tried sometimes drastic revamps to their business models to stay afloat.

Post-Ida woes are the reason the Gert Town ramen specialist Kin no longer makes its hand-crafted noodle soups and creative dumplings. Instead, owner Hieu Than converted Kin to a fried chicken counter, with a menu of combo plates and chicken by the box.

The change is intended to keep the family business open, albeit in much different style. Than is betting that a shorter, simpler menu better suited for takeout will make the difference to keep the lights on. After a month, though, hes not sure if the change is working.

Its a roller coaster, some days we do great, other days you wonder where everyone in the city went, he said. Honestly this is just what were doing to keep people working and keep the doors open. Its survival mode.

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The added pressure of Ida compelled chef Tung Nguyen to make his own big change with Em Trai Sandwich Co., where he serves a next-generation take on Vietnamese flavors. He closed the restaurant in Faubourg Marigny, where hed opened two years earlier. Now he intends to reopen in early November in Metairie, in a smaller spot attached to Dixie Taverne, a bar on Veterans Boulevard.

The lease at his new spot will be much lower, Nguyen said, and after Ida he felt he had no choice but to reinvent the business in a different area.

My business was down 70%. Then the storm just took away the rest. It was the icing on the cake, Nguyen said. My customers were artists and musicians and service industry people, but now they dont have gigs or they arent working as much."

We need help now

Restaurants are struggling to get insurance settlements for storm losses and access the various government relief programs enacted during the pandemic, and some feel left behind.

Chura learned Wakin Bakin was disqualified from getting Small Business Administration disaster assistance after Ida because he already applied for help through a different federal pandemic relief initiative, dubbed the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. While that loan was helpful at first, its no longer enough to float the restaurants. Business cratered as the delta surge ripped across Louisiana this summer, and the restaurant saw a further drop immediately after the citys proof of vaccination mandate for indoor dining began in August.

We need help now. Were waiting on the government for help, but its just not functioning, Chura said. It feels like the smallest of businesses have been missed.

Restaurant advocates are pleading to Congress for renewed federal relief to make it through. Industry advocates have been trying to convince lawmakers to add more money to the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which gave grants to restaurants, bars and other businesses but ran out of funds after fulfilling fewer than one-third of applications nationally. A bill aimed at refreshing that fund has failed to progress in Congress.

Cutting back to stay afloat

At lunchtime, Merritt Coscia serves customers through a takeout window at Plume Algiers, the tiny mom-and-pop known for its vibrantly flavorful Indian cuisine. She often has her 6-month-old son perched her hip as she works the window, while her husband Tyler Stuart runs the kitchen a few feet away.

The cottage-sized restaurant was damaged by Ida's winds, and insurance has been slow to materialize.

To cut costs since reopening, Plume Algiers is down to two employees. That's reduced service to dine-in at dinner only, while lunch is limited to takeout. Coscia passes orders of paratha rolls with shrimp and pickled lime and garlicky Keralan fried chicken through the window to neighborhood regulars, who eat outside at picnic tables.

The restaurant is doing a fraction of the business it saw before Ida, and Coscia now worries Plume Algiers will fold before relief arrives.

If insurance doesnt come through, theres no way they can make it to the end of the year, she said. Its been very frustrating.

In fact, Coscia said, the only economic relief the business has seen through the pandemic has come from mutual aid efforts within the community.

At Wakin Bakin, as people came in for breakfast sandwiches and bowls of grits and eggs, Chura charted out the way hes trying to move forward.

Hes had plans underway since earlier this year to open a third Wakin Bakin location in the French Quarter, in the former home of Eat New Orleans (another restaurant that closed in the pandemic).

He wants to press ahead with these plans, because the new spot includes a commissary kitchen. This will help him cut his production costs while maintaining quality at multiple locations. If he can gin up more revenue, hell reopen the Mid-City restaurant next.

He still believes in the business. Hes seen it grow from the pop-up he started more than a decade ago using borrowed kitchen space to become a full-fledged restaurant and neighborhood standby. For now, though, the challenge is keeping the business alive long enough to see the pandemics recovery.

I want to be ready when everything comes back, because if I dont, how am I going pay back the money I owe on these loans? he said. Every day you wake up wondering if this will be the day we get the help we need.

+5 New Orleans restaurants helped neighbors post-Ida. Could solar extend that help next time? Immediately after Hurricane Ida, some of the first grassroots disaster response in New Orleans came through small independent restaurants.
A Lafayette womens Republican group is coming under fire on social media after a copy of its scholarship essay flyer circulated online Tuesday.

On its Facebook page, Fleur De Lis Republican Women has also repeatedly shared memes that are racist, anti-transgender and insult poor people.

According to the flyer, the group is calling on high school senior girls in Lafayette Parish to write 800-1,000-word essays titled How Critical Race Theory Undermines Our Republic.

The club will award the two winners $1,000 college scholarships each on May 11, 2022.

The essay must include the definition of CRT and a discussion of its detriment, and applicants are encouraged to be original. The flyer instructs students to turn in their essays to the senior counselor at their school.

The group did not respond to a request for comment from Gambit.

Critical race theory is an approach legal scholars came up with in the late 70s and early 80s of looking at American systems and laws through the lens of race and racism. The approach is used in some post-graduate studies courses  not in Louisiana K-12 public schools.

Nevertheless, the term has recently been used by right wing pundits and politicians to mean any way of talking or teaching about race and racism, and its even being used in policy making.

In August, the Alabama Board of Education passed a resolution banning "concepts that impute fault, blame, a tendency to oppress others, or the need to feel guilt or anguish to persons solely because of their race or sex.

Just last week, Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey, a Republican, tweeted, We have BANNED Critical Race Theory in Alabama. Were focused on teaching our children how to read and write, not HATE.

Louisiana state Rep. Blake Miguez, an Erath Republican, quote tweeted Ivey, adding Republicans in the Louisiana House plan to address this issue in the next regular session.

Fleur De Lis Republican Women meets monthly at the Petroleum Club of Lafayette, and have hosted speakers such as Rep. Clay Higgins, Attorney General Jeff Landry and Lafayette Mayor-President Josh Guillory. The groups Facebook page shows members volunteering at Landrys alligator hunt fundraiser.

The group is also behind the Lafayette Parish Rush Revere Project, which has a goal of donating a set of Rush Limbaughs childrens books to each library in every middle and elementary school in Lafayette Parish, according to its website.

+2 Local Republican club president removed from post, rails against 'cancel culture' infiltrating right wing The National Federation of Republican Women appears to be putting some distance between itself and their longtime controversial local leader M
An Orleans Parish grand jury charged a man in a clothing designers hit-and-run death, one of four indictments handed up last week.

Adrian Caliste Jr. was charged Thursday with hit-and-run driving resulting in the death of 31-year-old Christina Larsen. Police accuse Caliste, 22, of running over Larsen as she took her dog for a walk on the night of Feb. 27, then speeding away and abandoning the car.

Caliste falsely reported to cops that he was carjacked downtown before the collision in a failed bid to cover up his involvement, police said.

+2 Inside the Christina Larsen hit-and-run case: Video dismantles phony carjacking alibi, NOPD says A 22-year-old driver plowed down a New Orleans clothing boutique designer while she walked across St. Charles Avenue last month and then fabri

Larsen died at a hospital on March 2. The Minnesota native was a designer for NOLA Couture, the fashion manufacturer and boutique.

Caliste would face up to 10 years in prison if convicted as charged.

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Separately, the grand jury charged a man accused of fatally stabbing a woman during an argument in the St. Claude area and dropping her off at a hospital.

Daniel Smith, 21, faces second-degree murder and obstruction of justice charges in connection with the killing. The Orleans Parish Coroner's Office couldn't immediately confirm the victim's identity.

Smith faces life in prison if convicted as charged, as do two men charged in separate rape cases.

Javier Cabrera, a 31-year-old Dallas man, is accused of first-degree rape and indecent behavior with a juvenile. Prosecutors accuse Cabrera of raping a child who was between the ages of 8 and 9 at some point between Jan. 1, 2015 and Dec. 31, 2016, and of committing indecent behavior with a juvenile against the same victim.

The grand jury separately charged Arias Dagoberto, a 42-year-old construction worker who lives in Mid-City, with first-degree rape. He is accused of raping a child between the ages of 9 and 11 years old between Jan. 1, 2017 and July 31, 2020.

Calistes attorney didnt respond to a request for comment, and it wasnt immediately clear whether Cabrera, Dagoberto and Smith have lawyers.
New Orleans police are trying to determine whether a motorist who shot a man to death at a Gentilly convenience store Tuesday was acting in self-defense, multiple law enforcement sources said.

The shooting erupted about 10:30 a.m. outside the Petro Save store at 3201 Gentilly Blvd. Police are investigating whether the victim had aggressively approached a male driver after he pulled his car next to a fuel pump, the sources said. The driver shot the man then waited for first responders to arrive following a 911 call.

The shooting victim died there. His killer was not immediately booked with a crime, although homicide detectives were planning to question him.

Police didnt identify either man or provide details about a possible motive in the case.

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It marked at least the second time in three days that New Orleans police were investigating whether a killing was justified. On Saturday, the owner of a Paris Avenue home undergoing renovations said he shot and killed a suspected burglar in his front yard. He has not been charged.

The central question for authorities in both cases is whether the shootings meet Louisianas definition of a justifiable homicide. Generally, as long as they are somewhere they have the right to be, people may kill anyone whom they reasonably believe is putting them in imminent danger of losing [their] lives or receiving great bodily harm.
Sherwin White Jr. lived for only seven weeks.

Born in June, premature and addicted to heroin, the newborn had to be medically treated for withdrawal symptoms and other complications, according to authorities.

Sherwins short life ended violently on Aug. 7 in an Old Jefferson motel room with horrific injuries, including multiple skull fractures and a broken left arm. The baby was also COVID-positive and had cocaine and the synthetic opioid fentanyl in his system when he died, an autopsy determined.

The fracture ran almost completely across the top of the skull, from ear to ear, with corresponding hemorrhaging along the fracture, as well as hemorrhaging on both ocular nerves, said Kurt Zeagler, the Jefferson Parish Sheriffs Office homicide detective tasked with determining who killed the tiny infant.

Sherwins mother, Shankia Walls, 28, was eventually arrested and booked with first-degree murder in her sons death. But Walls and relatives claim the baby was actually killed by his sister, Walls 6-year-old daughter, according to authorities.

Sheriffs Office investigators dont seem to believe the story, noting that the familys allegations against the 6-year-old seemed to change after word of Sherwins injuries spread.

New Orleans mother booked with murder of 1-month-old son: JPSO Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office detectives have arrested a New Orleans woman who is accused of killing her 1-month-old son.

As she (Walls) learned more information, her story evolved, said Zeagler, who provided new details about the investigation Monday while testifying during a probable cause hearing held in Jefferson Parish Magistrate Court.

Walls, who is from New Orleans, was staying at the motel in the 3400 block of Jefferson Highway because of a leaking roof in her own home, Zeagler said. Walls told investigators that Sherwin was fine when she checked on him around 3 a.m. as he lay in bed next to her, atop the covers.

But when motel staffers woke Walls at 11 a.m. to see if she planned to stay for another day, she told authorities she couldnt immediately find the baby, Zeagler testified. She discovered Sherwin under the covers and unresponsive. Walls told investigators her 6-year-old daughter, who previously had been asleep on a couch in the room, was now in bed with them.

+2 9-year-old girl dies after being injured in West Bank crash caused by impaired driver: State Police A 9-year-old girl has died of injuries she suffered in a West Bank crash, and State Police investigators are searching for the allegedly impai

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Sherwin was taken to the hospital, but he was already dead by the time he arrived, Zeagler said. The infant had a slight abrasion over one eye and some swelling to his cheek, but no other visible injuries.

Walls told the 911 call taker, deputies and Zeagler that her daughter was responsible for Sherwins death.

She told me her 6-year-old daughter had smothered the baby, Zeagler said of his hospital interview with Walls.

But the autopsy, conducted two days later by the Jefferson Parish Coroners Office, ruled out suffocation and revealed the babys fatal internal injuries. The cause of death was blunt force trauma to the head, Zeagler said.

Because no healing had taken place, authorities believe the injuries occurred within minutes of the babys death. The multiple skull fractures ruled out an accidental injury, Zeagler testified.

The Coroners Office is still conducting toxicology tests and analysis on Sherwins brain. Investigators there cant yet say how or if the drugs in his system contributed to his death. Walls denied ever breastfeeding the baby, according to Zeagler, who said there was no other legitimate explanation for the narcotics presence.

Sherwins sister is developmentally delayed, according to Zeagler. But their father told investigators she didnt have a history of trying to harm the baby.

The 6-year-old didnt acknowledge having a brother during a meeting with a forensic interviewer trained to talk to children. But in a subsequent meeting with a medical professional, the girl spontaneously blurted out that shed killed the baby, Zeagler said. The detective testified that the girl awkwardly made the admission the day after spending the night with her maternal grandmother.

The same maternal grandmother told a state Department of Children and Family Services employee that shed been in the motel room and saw the 6-year-old kick Sherwin the night before the baby died, Zeagler testified. That contradicts Walls earlier statements to investigators that only she, her daughter and Sherwin had been in the motel room.

Detectives eventually obtained a warrant to arrest Walls. She was taken into custody in Atlanta, where her defense attorney, Sarah Chervinsky, said shed evacuated after Hurricane Ida.

Chervinsky indicated that Walls mother told officials she saw the 6-year-old kick Sherwin at her house, not the motel.

Mondays hearing was continued until Nov. 9 because Chervinsky wanted to subpoena the pathologist who handled the autopsy. Walls was remanded to the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center in Gretna where she as being held without bond.
New Orleans police responded to an aggravated burglary around 7 p.m. Monday in the 2220 block of Dumaine Street. Ricky Tortorich, a 40-year-old man, forced his way into another man's house and threatened him with a knife, police say.

Tortorich held the man at knifepoint for hours before the victim tried to escape, police said. Tortorich and the man fought, and Tortorich fled. NOPD arrested him on one count of aggravated burglary.

According to court reports, Tortorich has a history of offenses that includes misdemeanor theft in Louisiana in 2009 and felony burglary in Arizona in 2003.

Police did not provide further information about Tortorich's motive.
A 9-year-old girl has died of injuries she suffered in a West Bank crash, and State Police investigators are searching for the allegedly impaired driver they say is responsible for her death.

Abigail Douglas, of New Orleans, died Sunday, two days after she was pulled from the wreckage of a three-vehicle crash in unincorporated Gretna, according to Trooper Kate Stegall, a State Police spokesperson.

Authorities have obtained a warrant to arrest Wendell Lachney, 58, on a charge of vehicular homicide.

Lachney was first booked Friday with first-degree negligent injuring, reckless operation of a vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, having an open container and not wearing a seat belt, according to State Police.

He was released from the jail Saturday on $50,000 bond, court records said.

Lachney was allegedly speeding while driving a 2020 Infinity Q50 sedan southbound on Laplaco at about 8 p.m. He rear-ended a 2014 Toyota Sienna, sending the minivan crashing into a a 2014 Chevrolet pick-up truck, Stegall said.

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Abigail was buckled into a third-row seat of the minivan but suffered critical injuries.

The girl's organs are being donated, WWL-TV reported Monday.

"An update on the St. Ann Church and National Shrine Facebook page says that all of Abbys donatable organs had been matched as of midday Monday, with the exception of her heart, which was being matched," the station reported. Lachney, who was not wearing a seat belt, had minor injuries. He was released from the hospital on Friday night, Stegall said.

Though troopers suspect Lachney was impaired, the agency did not say Monday whether police believe he was drunk or had consumed narcotics.

Anyone with information of Lachney's whereabouts is asked to call State Police at 504-471-2775 or Crimestoppers Inc. at 504-822-111.
For most of his fourth term in office, Orleans Parish Sheriff Marlin Gusman yielded control of his jail to a court official.

But last year, Gusman convinced a federal judge to hand back the keys. Now, he must convince voters to give him another term, even though some issues haven't changed much since the last time Gusman faced a contested ballot in 2014.

Inmates die of suicides and overdoses, violence flares on tiers, and crews have yet to begin construction on a lockup for inmates with mental and physical health problems. In a report this month, federal monitors said the jail is "regressing."

Gusman says some of his problems are inherent to a jail, and there have been improvements, like a new high school program for young inmates. The monitors, according to Gusman, are dead wrong, and he believes the the jail will soon exit federal oversight.

His four opponents, however, say that prediction is a fantasy and it's time for a change after 17 years of questionable leadership. They all reject his proposed special needs facility, despite a federal judges order to build it.

Gusmans most high-profile opponent is former independent police monitor Susan Hutson. She says its time for a full audit and an overhaul to prevent inmate deaths. She often name-checks District Attorney Jason Williams, who won on a progressive platform, but unlike him she has never run a campaign before.

The other candidates are mental health advocate Janet Hays, former Veterans Affairs police official Christopher Williams and lawn care specialist Quentin Brown. The election is Nov. 13. Early voting starts Oct. 30.

None of Gusmans opponents have ever won an election, but the sheriff has bagged plenty of them.

+7 As federal judges weigh controversial jail expansion, New Orleans City Council again cries foul Weeks after city officials, under pressure from a federal judge, filed a zoning change application for a controversial jail expansion, the New

He first won office as a City Council member in 2000. Four years later, he romped to victory as sheriff despite lacking experience in law enforcement. A year later, Hurricane Katrina swamped the jail and launched a debate over whether to replace all of the lock-up's 7,000 beds.

In campaign forums and an interview this year, Gusman claims he took an active role in cutting the jail down to size. I have no interest in expanding the jail. Ive done just the opposite, he says. Ive torn down every single building that was being used when I got elected.

Its true that Gusman has torn down many old buildings, but its also true that Gusman once pushed for a much larger facility.

While the sheriff denies it now, in a 2010 statement he said that a jail size of "4,300 beds is needed to protect the lives and property of our city's residents." That same year, he decried the idea of an overall population of 850 inmates as ludicrous.

In the end, the City Council capped the size of the new main jail at 1,438 beds. These days, the jails population hovers around 850.

One of the things I was most proud of is the way weve gotten the jail population down, said Susan Guidry, a former City Council member. But he was never involved in that.

As politicians fought over the size of the jail, advocates cried foul over the conditions inside. In 2013, they forced Gusman to agree to federal oversight. Gusman once said the $150 million new main jail building, which opened in 2015, would fix most of the problems, but the Sheriff's Office hasn't ticked off some key parts of the reform plan. Under pressure from the court-appointed monitors who oversee the reform agreement, Gusman agreed to hand over control of the facility to a "compliance director" from 2016 to 2020.

+5 Gov. John Bel Edwards endorses Moreno, Morrell and Gusman in New Orleans municipal races Gov. John Bel Edwards is backing City Councilmember Helena Moreno, former state Sen. JP Morrell, and Orleans Parish Sheriff Marlin Gusman in t

Now, the size debate is flaring again on a smaller scale, and Gusman is again casting a new facility as crucial to coming into compliance. Gusman and U.S. District Judge Lance Africk, who oversees the jails reform pact with the feds, say a special needs building with 89 beds is necessary for people with severe health problems. The building would also include an infirmary and visitation rooms. FEMA would pay for most of its $51 million cost.

In the meantime, inmates with severe mental health problems are being housed in a temporary building. On a recent tour, Gusman pointed to issues like faulty plumbing.

Theres no natural light -- wed never make accreditation for that reason alone, he says. Some are just saying, lets do something good enough, and Im saying, lets do it right.

While the tour pointed to the buildings shortcomings, it also highlighted the argument against a new facility. There were only seven men housed on one unit and five women in another. Mayor LaToya Cantrells administration, which would like to spend FEMA money elsewhere, says those numbers cant justify a pricey new facility.

On the same August tour of the jail complex, Gusman seemed at home in the main Orleans Justice Center, greeting deputies and inmates alike by name.

He noted that deputies now sport body-worn cameras to complement overhead surveillance cameras. Another highlight of the tour was the high school where dozens of inmates have received a diploma.

+2 Jared Brossett suspends campaign for at-large council seat after DWI arrest; enters treatment After days of silence following his third drunk driving arrest, New Orleans City Council member Jared Brossett said he was suspending his camp

Gusman says the dire portraits painted by federal monitors are a fantasy. You see anything unconstitutional? he asked a reporter after a walk-through.

Those monitors have an ulterior motive for their negativity, the sheriff believes. If they give a seal of approval, their paychecks will stop coming. Theres really no incentive for the monitors to get out. They can bill. They keep finding stuff thats not right, he says.

Hutson says the monitors arent nitpicking. She notes that three inmates died in the jail last year -- one by suicide, one by overdose, and one by natural causes. Another died of an overdose this year.

The Sheriffs Office seems to be little moved by the deaths on its watch, the monitors say. Mortality reviews are cursory, and sometimes the jail fails altogether to evaluate why suicide attempts were allowed to happen, they say.

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Thats stunning, because youre talking about lives, Hutson says.

Hutson is a Philadelphia native and Tulane law graduate who worked in police oversight roles in Austin and Los Angeles before she came to New Orleans a decade ago, as the city grappled with investigations into police violence after Hurricane Katrina. She resigned to run for sheriff, and if elected she would be the first woman to run the lock-up.

While she has never run a jail, Hutson says she has spent plenty of experience dealing with the consent decrees at the NOPD and the LAPD, the latter of which covered that forces lock-ups.

Hutson argues that its time for a new breed of sheriff who will rethink the job, in the same way that Jason Williams is trying to redefine the district attorneys role. Her proposals include a forensic audit of Sheriffs Office spending, increased pay for deputies and full-scale reviews of inmate deaths.

She also wants to tear up the contract with the jails private healthcare provider, Wellpath, although the city is in charge of that contract.

Gusman scoffs at the other candidates pledges to stop construction of the special needs building. He notes that Africk, the federal judge, has vast power to force the city to follow through on its pledge to build it.

First, I think you have to say youre against it. You have to start right there, Hutson responds. Youve got a community saying no.

As far as fundraising goes, Gusman is well out in front, raising $88,000 to end the most recent campaign finance period with $244,000 on hand.

Many of the sheriff's biggest contributors were based in Dallas: the online gun dealer Ray's Hardware and Sporting Goods, Dallas residents Alexandra Bass, Denis Boulle and Nicholas Boulle, and a limited liability company called Toby Piper Investments.

+3 Netflix's Jailbirds: New Orleans touts scandalous look at women behind bars; critics dismayed Eight years ago, video shot inside the New Orleans jail of inmates using drugs, drinking beer and handling a gun prompted outrage and a costly

Gusman also raised $5,000 from the campaign committee for Jefferson Parish Sheriff Joe Lopinto, trial attorney Evan Trestman, the law offices of Freeman Matthews and Sidney Torres III, and a firm run by his in-house counsels, Rodrigue & Arcuri LLP.

Hutson fell far short of the sheriff's haul, raising $17,000 and loaning herself $38,000 to end the period with $8,500 on hand. Yet she can count on help from the PAC for Justice, which hauled $191,000, including $50,000 contributions from Oklahoma oil heiress Stacy Schusterman and the Washington, D.C.-based dark money group the Sixteen Thirty Fund.

Hays and Williams are relying on loans from themselves -- $27,000 and $23,000, respectively. Brown raised nothing.

Hays, a native of Canada, is a passionate campaigner for people with mental health problems. While Hutson and the Cantrell administration have expressed interest in renovating the main jail to serve inmates with mental health problems, Hays argues that FEMA funds should be redirected to a forensic facility under the supervision of the state Department of Health.

Now more than ever, that money should be used to focus on people with serious mental illness, she says.

Similar to Gusmans other opponents, Williams says the Sheriffs Office is in disarray. The Army veteran says that his experience leading the police force for the local Veterans Affairs hospital gives him an edge.

What the citizen needs to understand is that you wouldnt get a plumber to fix a car. You would get a mechanic, he says. You cant just put an attorney in this job and expect them to do fine.

Williams plan to deploy Sheriffs Office deputies to aid in traffic control and juvenile curfew enforcement could run into trouble in federal court, given the monitors constant complaints about poorly guarded pods.

Like Williams, Brown promises a clean sweep. He says one of his first acts if elected will be to conduct a full-scale audit.

Brown operates a lawn care business and has run for office many times before. In 2014, his unexpectedly strong fourth-place showing helped push Gusman into a runoff against his predecessor Charles Foti, which some observers took as a protest against Gusman.

Editor's Note: This article was updated on 10/28/21 to correct the manner of manner of death for the inmate who died in 2021.

Marlin Gusman 65. Born in New Orleans, lives in Gentilly. Graduated from Jesuit High School, University of Pennsylvania and Loyola University School of Law Orleans Parish Sheriff Democrat. Former City Councilman, District D (2000-2004), chief administrative officer for Mayor Marc Morial Website: https://www.marlingusman.com/

Christopher Williams 56. Born in New Orleans, lives in Algiers. Graduated from George Washington Carver Sr. High School, EdD from Nova Southeastern University Retired program manager for Veterans Affairs police Democrat Website: https://www.votewilliamsforsheriff.com/

Quentin Brown 52. Born in New Orleans, lives in Uptown area. Graduated from Walter L. Cohen High School. Lawn care specialist No party

Janet Hays 56. Born in Toronto, lives in Freret area. Graduated from Strathcona-Tweedsmuir School in Okotoks, Alberta, attended University of Calgary. Director, Healing Minds NOLA No party Website: http://janethaysforsheriff.com/
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Politics Reporter

Reese Gorman covers politics and the COVID-19 pandemic for The Norman Transcript. He started as an intern in May of 2020 and transitioned into his current position as a staff writer in August of 2020.
Harrisburg, Pa. -- Now that Pa. has reached the threshold of slightly over 71% of the population to be fully vaccinated, the discussion now moves on to booster shots for those who choose to receive them.

Following an in-depth approval process by the federal government, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has now announced that booster shots of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine will be available to certain adults. These decisions follow action in September approving Pfizer vaccine boosters, according to a release by the health department.

Vaccine providers across Pennsylvania have supplies of all three safe and effective vaccines ready to administer booster shots today to those who are eligible, said Acting Secretary of Health Alison Beam. I am impressed by the tens of thousands of Pennsylvanians who are stepping up every day to get their first, second or third dose of vaccine to protect themselves, their loved ones and their neighbors against COVID-19.

The CDC recommends booster shots for certain groups of individuals:

Individuals who received Moderna or Pfizer vaccine are eligible to get a booster, if:

It's been at least six months since your initial series of two doses, and you are one of the following:

Age 65+,



Age 18+ and reside in a long-term care setting,



Age 18+ and have an underlying medical condition, or



Age 18+ and work or live in a high-risk setting.



Individuals who received the Johnson & Johnson vaccine are eligible to get a booster, if:

It's been at least two months since their initial dose.

The department said that regardless of which brand of vaccine received for the primary COVID-19 vaccination, individuals are able to take any brand of booster dose. Individuals who have questions about getting vaccinated are being encouraged to seek out proper medical advice and to speak with their doctor or other trusted healthcare professional. Last month, Beam signed an order to ensure that vaccine providers are prepared to start scheduling COVID-19 booster shots upon CDC authorization.

There will be an adequate supply of the vaccine for eligible individuals and Pennsylvania vaccine providers are prepared to administer doses now and schedule appointments. As with other healthcare services, patients may need to schedule appointments in advance, the release said.

These vaccines remain our best strategy to stop the spread of COVID-19, Beam said.

If you are fully vaccinated you still have protection. Getting a booster dose will increase your level of defense. If you have family and friends who are not yet vaccinated, please encourage them to talk to their doctor and consider getting vaccinated now," Beam added.

To find a vaccine provider near you, please visit www.vaccines.gov.
Tioga County, Pa. -- Wellsboro is a quaint town surrounded by forests and parks, so it should come as no surprise that birds frequent the area. The prolific bird presence has led to the town's naming as "Bird Town" by Audubon Mid-Atlantic, the Pa. chapter of the National Audubon Society, according to the PA Environmental Digest.

The region presents a wide variety of species for birdwatchers to easily observe, including bald eagles, Cooper's hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, great blue herons, yellow warblers, and more, reports the PA Environmental Digest.

The working partnership between Wellsboro and the National Audubon Society promotes conservation and community-based actions toward a goal of creating a sustainable environment for both birds and people, according to the PA Environmental Digest.

To be designated a Bird Town, Wellsboro met eleven of fifteen criteria, which included establishing an environmental advisory board, maintaining a park system with a natural habitat for birds, and implementing environmental education programs, according to the PA Environmental Digest.

Through the support of the National Audubon Society, bird watchers now have the ability to learn extensively about birds while exploring the Pine Creek Rail Trail and the Muck/Marsh Creek. These areas allow visitors to observe birds in their natural habitat, said Colleen Hanson, Executive Director of Visit Potter-Tioga.

Wellsboros close proximity to Tioga State Forest, Pine Creek Gorge and Cherry Springs State Park offers visitors an abundance of opportunities to explore Pennsylvanias rich landscapes, dark skies and observe birds unique to the region.

The designation as a Bird Town may inspire others to visit Wellsboro and enjoy the bird sighting opportunities it has to offer.

Birders can contact the visitors bureau at 570-724-0635 for assistance in planning trips and connecting with local bird experts.

Correction This story has been edited to properly cite the source of information.




Northumberland, Pa.  A man was nearly run over with a minivan earlier this month, according to witness accounts.

Stonington State Police troopers said Joanne Lucille Egan, 27, of Montoursville destroyed several pieces of property, rammed a car into a van, attempted to hit a person, and abandoned a vehicle in the middle of Snydertown Road in Northumberland County on October 13.

Egan was charged with four second-degree misdemeanors in simple assault, recklessly endangering another person, criminal mischief, and unauthorized use of motor vehicles. She was also charged with third-degree felony aggravated assault by vehicle and a summary offense of abandoning vehicles on the highway.

Trooper Daniel Woody said he responded to calls for a domestic near the 3,000 block of Snydertown Road the evening of October 13. While en route, Woody was directed to a grey minivan that was reported abandoned in the middle of the road.

Woody said he found the vehicle and observed damages to it. From there, Woody walked to the residence where the domestic was reported and said he observed a discarded laundry basket, overturned motorcycle, and large heat lamp in the yard.

The caller said he and Egan were engaged in a verbal argument prior to the attack. Egan allegedly left the residence but returned and took control of the minivan.

According to Woodys affidavit, Egan attempted to hit the accuser with the minivan before reversing and pulling away on Snydertown Road.

Officers said Egan was located in the basement of the residence. Woody said she admitted to being engaged in an argument, but said neither physically harmed one another.

Egan posted $5,000 unsecured bail on Oct. 14 and was released from custody. She will appear before Judge John Gembic for a preliminary hearing on Oct. 26.

Docket sheet
Harrisburg, Pa. -- The COVID-19 pandemic still continues to directly affect families and the nutritional needs of children.

The states Department of Human Services announced the launch of a live hotline to assist families with the Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) program. The department said that Pennsylvanians who have not received their childs P-EBT benefits, or have an issue with P-EBT, can dial 484-363-2137 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The P-EBT program has been a lifeline to Pennsylvania families with children affected by school closure throughout the pandemic, and I understand that delays in receiving this benefit have created challenges, said Acting DHS Secretary Meg Snead. We are quickly working to reissue lost or missing cards, and we hope this hotline will help parents resolve card issues with greater ease.

The state said P-EBT is designed to help eligible families cover the cost of breakfasts and lunches their children would have been eligible to receive for free or at reduced price through the National School Lunch Program in child care or school settings that closed temporarily or permanently due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Families can use their P-EBT benefits to purchase almost any food item in a typical grocery store, and the program follows the same rules as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

The department said that more than one million children in Pa. are eligible for P-EBT, and more than 757,000 cards have now been activated by families who choose to use the benefit. DHS has received approximately 30,000 requests to reissue lost cards or cards that were never delivered.

The release by the department emphasized that staff are monitoring the phone line and webform, responding to inquiries as soon as possible, and mailing replacement cards when they are requested. While parents may experience long wait times on the hotline initially, DHS said they are continuing to hire and train additional staff to help families resolve outstanding inquiries as quickly as possible.

DHS is also working to reissue about 35,000 P-EBT cards in specific areas that have indicated significant instances of P-EBT cards that were not received or not activated. These cards should be received by eligible households by early November, they said. P-EBT cards are being reissued to all eligible children in Luzerne County, as well as other areas listed below:

Allentown City SD

Athens Area SD

Berwick Area SD

Connellsville Area SD

Erie City SD

Hanover Public SD

Harrisburg City SD

Hazleton Area SD

Iroquois Area SD

McKeesport Area SD

Mount Carmel SD

New Kensington-Arnold SD

Portage Area SD

Scranton SD

Steelton Highspire SD

Susquehanna Township SD

Titusville Area SD

Wilkes-Barre Area Career & Technical Center

Wilkes-Barre Area SD

Wyoming Area SD

Wyoming Valley West SD

Families in these districts who have received and activated their cards can continue to use them, the release said. Parents who have a standard EBT card for other benefits such as SNAP and Cash Assistance and have children who were deemed eligible for P-EBT will have their P-EBT benefits loaded to their EBT card, if possible. Those who have not received their P-EBT card by November and should have received one should contact the P-EBT Hotline at 484-363-2137 to report an issue.

DHS is currently working with Pennsylvanias Department of Education to draft a plan for the 2021-2022 school year in line with guidance from the federal government, and more information will be available soon.

More information about P-EBT and the call center can be found here.
Harrisburg, Pa.  The 2021 general election is quickly approaching as deadlines are now looming for citizens to exercise their right to vote.

Acting Secretary of State Veronica Degraffenreid is encouraging Pa. residents who have opted to vote by mail-in ballot in the Nov. 2 election to hand-deliver their ballots to their county election office, drop box, or other designated location as soon as possible.

"It's time to return your mail ballot to ensure it arrives by the deadline. Although county election boards will accept voted mail ballots until 8 p.m. on Election Day, voters should not wait until the last minute. And a postmark doesn't count," Degraffenreid said.

"Hand-deliver your mail ballot as soon as possible to your county election office or authorized drop-off location to be certain your vote will be counted," Degraffenreid continued.

Voters who requested a mail ballot have several options for how to return it. They can:

Drop it off at their county election office.

Find out if their county has a drop box. If so, they can deliver their ballot there.

Find out if their county has a satellite election office where they can drop off their ballot.

Before casting their mail ballot, voters should:

Read the instructions carefully.

Fill out the ballot, being sure to follow instructions on how to mark selections.

Seal the ballot in the inner secrecy envelope that indicates "Official Election Ballot," making sure not to make any stray marks on the envelope.

Then seal the secrecy envelope in the pre-addressed outer return envelope.

Complete the voter's declaration on the outer envelope by signing their name and writing the current date.

Voters must complete all these steps for their ballot to be counted.

According to a release by the state department, while voters may still apply for a mail ballot through Oct. 26 at 5 p.m., they are urged to fill out and return their ballot as soon as they receive it.

Voters also have the option of voting their mail ballot in person at their county election office. They can apply for their ballot, wait while their eligibility is verified by an election official and then complete and return their ballot on the spot, all in one visit.

Under Pennsylvania law, voters may only return their own ballots. The only exceptions to this are for voters with a disability who have designated someone in writing to deliver their ballot, or voters who need third-party delivery of their emergency absentee ballot.

Voters who applied for and received a mail ballot and then decide they want to vote at the polls must bring their entire mail ballot packet with them to be voided, including the pre-addressed outer return envelope with the voter's declaration.

If a voter applied for a mail ballot but did not receive it or no longer has the mail ballot and envelopes, they may vote by provisional ballot at the polls on Election Day. Their county board of elections will then verify that they did not vote by mail before counting their provisional ballot.

"Election Day is just days away. Do not delay," Degraffenreid said. "Return your mail ballot now so your voice will be heard on Nov. 2."

For more information on voting and elections in Pa., visit vote.pa.gov, call the Department of State's toll-free hotline at 1-877-VOTESPA (877-868-3772), or follow along on social media with the hashtag #ReadyToVotePA.
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April Moore, a Shenandoah County resident, ran in 2019 as the Democratic candidate in Virginia State Senate District 26 against Sen. Mark Obenshain, R-Harrisonburg.
A new study found South Suburban College contributed a great deal of economic development and jobs to the Southland region.

The community college in South Holland was found to have $31.7 million in operating expenditures, $14.4 million in compensation and 427 jobs associated with $59.4 million in economic output. The study, by Northern Illinois Universitys Center for Governmental Studies, found community colleges overall had $3.5 billion in economic output in Illinois, supporting more than 43,000 jobs across the state.

"I believe our country has given greater voice in recent years to the significant impact community colleges have educationally and culturally, but oftentimes the least understood and least measured effect is economically, said Frank Zuccarelli, chairman of the South Suburban College Board of Trustees. The detailed research that was conducted through this study revealed some amazing numbers relating to the positive economic value of community colleges in Illinois, and specifically here in the south suburban region.

The study found South Suburban College students who completed a two-year program without going on to get a four-year degree increased their lifetime earnings by $525,000, generating a 23.5% return on investment.
Board members questioned the project's managers about its competitive impact on current health care providers. Bagnall said the motivation was instead to fill specialized needs the University of Chicago could provide expertise in, particularly serving Region residents who already go to academic hospitals in Illinois.

She also said the new facility would lead to some consolidation of the network's own services, including by moving pediatric and oncology services currently provided in Merrillville and Schererville to Crown Point.

In a news release following Monday's votes, a UChicago Medicine official described the health care provider's goals.

UChicago Medicines reputation for providing high-quality care and for bringing research to the bedside is built around the concept that a multidisciplinary approach  specialists and subspecialists working together with community physicians and health systems  is best for patient care and for treating complex diseases and conditions, said Dr. Kenneth Polonsky, dean and executive vice president for medical affairs at the University of Chicago. The proposed facility would allow our physicians to collaborate with community providers to deliver an integrated and seamless experience for patients who need convenient access to advanced care, clinical trials and the latest diagnostic and treatment options.
Indiana University Northwest's School of Arts won an honorable mention award from The American Institute of Architects Chicago.

The Mobile Community Art + Action Lab developed by IUN Director of Arts Programming and Engagement Lauren Pacheco was a runner-up for the Roberta Feldman Architecture for Social Justice Award at Designight 2021, an architectural celebration hosted by WTTW's Geoffrey Baer.

The Mobile Art + Action Community Lab toured parking lots in Gary, Hobart and Hammond to provide socially distant cultural programming outdoors during the coronavirus pandemic. It moved indoors over the winter and spring for popup exhibits at IUN, the South Shore Art Center and then Chesterton Art Center.

"Now in post-pandemic times, the MA+AC Lab remains a compelling alternative to traditional gallery and museum spaces by bringing art directly into diverse and dispersed communities," Pacheco said. "Essentially, the School of the Arts is leading a campus effort in meeting our community where they are."

The Legacy Foundation, the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Multicultural Affairs, and the Chancellors Office at IU Northwest provided funding for the project.
There were apparent bullet holes in the driver's seat, and several pieces of suspected marijuana on the front passenger-side floorboard, according to court documents.

A trail of blood led from the passenger side of the car to a pile of red-stained clothing near an alley in the 4800 block of Wegg Avenue, records state.

Police determined the clothing belonged to Burks and found a blood-covered Ruger LCP .390 handgun just north of the clothing, documents state.

About four minutes after the initial call, police were dispatched to the 4800 block of Walsh Avenue, where they found Shanklin. He had been shot in the shoulder, records state.

Shanklin told police he didn't know who shot him. When police asked to test his hands for gunshot residue, he said, "I didn't shoot nobody. I don't own a firearm," records state.

Shanklin eventually agreed to the test, and police later learned his hands tested positive for the presence of gunshot residue, according to court documents.

A review of surveillance videos from the area showed a person wearing clothing matching those worn by Shanklin run from the passenger side of the crashed Impala holding what appeared to be a gun, records state.
She said she consumed a jello shot offered to her by Luttinen, blacked out and awoke to Luttinen having sex with her.

He only stopped because his wife walked in and yelled after seeing what he was doing, the girl told police.

His wife reportedly told police she saw her husband kiss the girl on the lips shorty before walking in on them. She did not call police and later told them she "could not be the one to tell on James because she could not do that to her sons."

Luttinen reportedly asked his wife to tell the girl he was sorry and that "she could punch him if she wanted to."

Luttinen reportedly explained himself in part to police by saying he was drunk and "there was a young, good-looking girl, rubbing up against me."

He said the girl pursued the sex and verbally affirmed that was what she wanted when asked, police said.

He said it dawned on him what he was doing once his wife yelled at him, and he "freaked out at that point."

During a bond hearing early on in the case, it was revealed Luttinen was working as an information technology specialist for the FBI, with high-level clearance.

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It also points to the amazing opportunities available for students in our community," Eason-Watkins said.

Franciscan Health is very pleased to partner with Michigan City Area Schools to promote careers in healthcare to high school students, said Dean Mazzoni, President and CEO of Franciscan Health, Michigan City.

Our children are our future. It is our hope that, through this very innovative partnership, we can expose students to the many promising careers that exist in healthcare. And that through their experience with us, they will someday come home to work with us in providing great healthcare to our community.

The Health Careers program at A. K. Smith has expanded this school year, according to Delincia Smith, Director of LaPorte County Career and Technical Education.

We added a third section of Health Science, which is evidence of this programs growing popularity with students, she said. This is a high-demand field, and our program allows students to explore many potential careers in the industry while earning dual credit and certifications.
"And then it grew up to 350 meals a night. The message is to come and have fellowship and have a meal here," Harsh said.

Harsh said the word is slowly getting out that the outreach kitchen has reopened.

"Slowly it's building up," Harsh said.

The numbers went from 40 on Sept. 9 to about 89 participants two weeks ago, Harsh said.

Judith Price, of Valparaiso, a former teacher and former Lake County welfare department employee, said she has been a regular at the dinners since 2019, when she came with her late sister.

Price said she started coming back again after the most recent restart in September.

"I come weekly, obviously for the food," Price said while waiting her turn in line.

John Tunacik, of Valparaiso, said he rides his bicycle to the kitchen each week more for socialization than the food.

"I'm just taking a break from the point-and-click for friends. You may have clicked on friends on Facebook, but this is the real world," Tunacik said.

Harsh said Cafe Manna counts on Valparaiso University students like seniors Maddi Mesplay and Matt Kavanaugh to serve as volunteer workers.
At St. Paul Catholic School in Valparaiso, students have good reason to wear their Red Ribbon each day starting Monday.

Participation in the anti-drug awareness week will mean the opportunity to earn prizes, St. Paul fourth grade teacher and Red Ribbon Week coordinator Gayle Bakota said.

"This year each kid gets a Red Ribbon which will have numbers on the back. Every day if they wear the ribbon, they will have a chance to have their number drawn in a raffle and they can win prizes," Bakota said.

The prizes, including a scooter, games, paint by number and trips to the Zao Island amusement center in Valparaiso, are meant to play up the anti-drug message, Bakota said.

"All the prizes point out to the students that there are better things to do than drugs," Bakota said.

In addition to the raffle, each day there will be a theme including Turn Your Back on Drugs in which students will wear their clothing backwards.

Other Red Ribbon activities include watching educational videos that are grade-level appropriate, Bakota said.

In past years, St. Paul would hold a presentation by an officer from DEA, but, due to COVID-19, gatherings in the auditorium have been cut back.
In Chester, a city of about 8,700 across the Mississippi River from St. Mary, residents reported damage that included a tree falling onto one home and roof damage to a nursing home, said Larry Willis, a spokesman for the Randolph County Emergency Management Agency.

Willis said the nearby village of Bremen took a direct hit before the storm dissipated about a mile (1.6 kilometers) east of that community. In its wake, a large storage building in Bremen was destroyed, and Illinois Route 150 was closed due to downed power lines and power poles.

One St. Mary resident, Tina Lowry, was in bed and her sister was in the living room when they heard a whooshing sound Sunday night. Lowry said she took shelter in her closet and her sister hunkered down in the bedroom as the home was ripped apart. Vehicles also were destroyed by the storm.

Im just happy were alive, she said.

The severe weather in the Midwest came as a powerful storm barreled toward Southern California after flooding highways, toppling trees and causing mud flows in areas burned bare by recent fires across the northern part of the state. Drenching showers and strong winds accompanied the storm.
Prosecution objects

Binger wants to block the testimony about those police interactions.

I appreciate attorney Chirafisi making explicit what I have long suspected, that this is going to be a trial over the Police Departments activity that night, Binger said. I think the defense argument here is pretty clear, they want to say that because police officers saw him and didnt stop him, then somehow his actions are lawful.

The prosecutor argued that interactions Rittenhouse had with police earlier in the night are not relevant to his actions later.

Rittenhouse is charged with first-degree attempted homicide, attempted first-degree attempted homicide and first degree reckless homicide for shooting three men, killing two: Anthony Huber of Silver Lake and Joseph Rosenbaum of Kenosha. Gaige Grosskreutz of West Allis was injured. Rittenhouse and his supporters have maintained he was acting in self defense.

Kenosha County Circuit Court Judge Bruce Schroeder said he would leave the door open to allow testimony about the police interactions. It seems to me, my bias at this point, was toward allowing that evidence in, Schroeder said, noting that he typically waits to make final decisions about what would be allowed until he sees evidence coming at trial.
Kyle Rittenhouse's attorneys are seeking testimony from use-of-force expert John Black to bolster their case that he acted in self-defense. Prosecutors have asked a judge to disqualify Black.
Honduras has barely begun to recover from two hurricanes that hit late last year. With relatively little disaster relief from the U.S., many are heading for the border.

SAN PEDRO SULA, Honduras  Children pry at the dirt with sticks, trying to dig out parts of homes that have sunk below ground. Their parents, unable to feed them, scavenge the rubble for remnants of roofs to sell for scrap metal. They live on top of the mud that swallowed fridges, stoves, beds  their entire lives buried beneath them.

We are doomed here, said Magdalena Flores, a mother of seven, standing on a mattress that peeked out from the dirt where her house used to be. The desperation, the sadness, thats what makes you migrate.

People have long left Honduras for the United States, fleeing gang violence, economic misery and the indifference of a government run by a president accused of ties to drug traffickers.
For now, the military standoff has played out with ships shadowing one anothers vessels during exercises, long-range bomber overflights and jamming of navigation broadcasts, a Russian specialty.

In March, the Russian Navy surfaced three submarines simultaneously through pack ice and, lest the feat go unnoticed, filmed it with a drone and posted the footage online. The United States this month sailed the U.S.S. New Mexico, a Virginia-class submarine, into Tromso, Norway, for a rare call at a civilian port.

In the same vein, the tour for foreign journalists to some of Russias most remote and secretive military facilities in the Arctic Ocean seemed intended to highlight the countrys capabilities.

Inviting journalists to come look at these modernized, reinvigorated Cold War sites is all about signaling, said Marisol Maddox, an Arctic analyst at the Polar Institute of the Woodrow Wilson Center, a research organization in Washington.

Russia, she said, wants to keep up its strongman persona in an era of climate change.
While some breakthrough cases among those who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19 are inevitable, they are unlikely to result in hospitalization or death. But one important question about breakthrough infection that remains unanswered is: Can the vaccinated develop so-called long Covid?

Long Covid refers to a set of symptoms  such as severe fatigue, brain fog, headache, muscle pain and sleep problems  that can persist for weeks or months after the active infection has ended. The syndrome is poorly understood, but studies suggest that between 10 and 30 percent of adults who catch the virus may experience long Covid, including those who experienced only mild illness or no symptoms at all.

But the vast majority of data collected about long Covid has been in the unvaccinated population. The risk of developing long Covid for the fully vaccinated who get infected after vaccination hasnt been studied.

While preliminary research suggests that it is, in fact, possible for a breakthrough case to lead to symptoms that can persist for weeks to months, there are still more questions than answers. What percent of breakthrough cases result in lingering symptoms? How many of those people recover? Are the persistent symptoms after breakthrough infection as severe as those that occur in the unvaccinated?
A year-and-a-half ago, we watched showrooms closing, and the design industry changed very quickly, Ms. Harris said. We didnt see a reason to lock out the retail customer anymore. The companys entire product line, including its signature fabrics and wallcoverings, is now available online, direct to the consumer. Each new pattern introduced is based on one in Mrs. Parishs archives.

Interior designers continue to comprise the bulk of Ms. Harriss clientele, but she is excited about reaching homeowners directly. Not everyone has access to an interior designer, she said. Some design enthusiasts just want to wallpaper a room, and we want to be able to support them.

Providing customer service, she added, is different when dealing with an interior designer, who typically looks to the brand to provide specs and samples. The consumer wants more of an education, Ms. Harris said. They want beautiful lifestyle imagery and more suggestions on how to use our products. Last year the company introduced a video series, Tell a Sister that serves as a round table in which Ms. Harris interviews female design-minded professionals.

My great-grandmother laid the groundwork for women leadership in the business of design, and we want to carry that on, she said.

Sister Parish Design is also collaborating with other brands, including teaming up with Artemis Design Company, a workshop in Boston that makes shoes out of Kilim textiles. In January, the company will collaborate with Tibetano on a collection of handwoven flat weave and rag rugs based on some of its most coveted patterns.
A coup in Sudan

Sudans top generals seized power yesterday, arresting the prime minister and other civilian leaders, imposing a state of emergency and opening fire on protesters. The coup appeared to deal a sweeping blow to hopes for a democratic transition in one of Africas largest countries.

Sudans military and civilian leaders have shared power for over two years in a tense, uneasy arrangement. But the militarys actions signified an end to that deal. This is a new Sudan, Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the military chief, said. We call on everybody to come together to develop and build the country.

As news spread, protesters flooded into the streets of the capital, Khartoum, and soldiers opened fire, killing seven people and wounding at least 140 others, an official told Reuters. The internet was down in most of the nation, reinforcing fears that the country was reverting to the old Sudan, as it had been under its longtime dictator, Omar Hassan al-Bashir.

Response: The White House condemned the coup and suspended $700 million in emergency economic aid to Sudan, intended to support the democratic transition  a vital lifeline in a country laboring under economic crisis.
Detectives found three revolvers, spent casings and ammunition  in boxes, loose and in a fanny pack  when they searched the New Mexico film set where the actor Alec Baldwin fatally shot a cinematographer last week with a gun he had been told did not contain any live rounds, according to an inventory of the items seized that was released on Monday.

The new details emerged four days after Mr. Baldwin shot the cinematographer, Halyna Hutchins, while rehearsing a scene in which he draws a revolver from his holster and points it at the camera, according to an affidavit used to obtain the warrant to search the set. The inventory, filed in Santa Fe County Magistrate Court, did not specify what kind of ammunition was seized, and whether it included regular bullets, blank cartridges or dummies.

Taken together, the guns, ammunition and blood from the scene where the movie Rust was being filmed did not answer the central question of how Ms. Hutchins was killed with a gun that was not supposed to contain live ammunition.

Mike Tristano, a veteran professional armorer based in Los Angeles, said the inventory was vague and gave scant information about the type of guns or bullets found. But he did point to the reference to loose ammunition and spent casings as unusual. Typically, ammunition would be kept in a clearly labeled box, he said. The fact that there is loose ammunition and casings raises questions about the organization of the armory department, he said.
The largest police union in New York City asked a judge on Monday to allow unvaccinated police officers to continue working, despite the citys recently imposed vaccine mandate, which requires all municipal workers to have received at least one coronavirus vaccine dose by Nov. 1.

In a lawsuit filed in Staten Island, which is home to many police officers and has a vaccination rate that lags behind the citywide average, the Police Benevolent Association of New York said it opposed a vaccine mandate for police officers that does not allow the option of being tested weekly instead of being vaccinated.

The lawsuit also claimed that the mandate  which the mayor announced last week  does not contain sufficient protections for officers who might object to the vaccines because of religious beliefs. Mayor Bill de Blasio has said that the city will be offering religious accommodation, but that valid religious exemptions are rare.

While most lawsuits trying to stop government vaccine mandates in New York and elsewhere have failed to gain traction, some federal judges have appeared more sympathetic to suits that narrowly attack vaccine mandates for not accommodating religious beliefs.
Democrats may  may  finally be about to agree on a revenue and spending plan. It will clearly be smaller than President Bidens original proposal, and much smaller than what progressives wanted. It will, however, be infinitely bigger than what Republicans would have done, because if the G.O.P. controlled Congress, we would be doing nothing at all to invest in Americas future.

But what will the plan do? Far too much reporting has focused mainly on the headline spending number  $3.5 trillion, no, $1.5 trillion, whatever  without saying much about the policies this spending would support. To be fair, though, the Biden administration could have done a better job of summarizing its plans in pithy slogans.

So let me propose a one-liner: Tax the rich, help Americas children. This gets at much of what the legislation is likely to do: Reporting suggests that the final bill will include taxes on billionaires incomes and minimum taxes for corporations, along with a number of child-oriented programs. And action on climate change can, reasonably, be considered another way of helping future generations.

Republicans will, of course, denounce whatever Democrats come out with. But there are three things you should know about both taxing the rich and helping children: Theyre very good ideas from an economic point of view. Theyre extremely popular. And theyre very much in the American tradition.
TEL AVIV  An Israeli family court ruled Monday that the 6-year-old survivor of an Italian cable car crash should live with his paternal aunt in Italy, not with the maternal grandfather who had spirited him off to Israel in what the court said was a violation of international law.

The boy, Eitan Biran, was the sole survivor when a cable snapped on a gondola traveling up a nearly 5,000-foot mountain in northern Italy in May. He was born in Israel but had been living in Italy with his parents, who were killed in the crash.

The custody dispute between his aunt, Aya Biran, and his grandfather, Shmuel Peleg, has divided the family and drawn international attention.

The court accepted Ms. Birans claim that she was the childs legal guardian, properly appointed by an Italian court, and it bluntly rejected all of Mr. Pelegs arguments.
Hes been in the presence of Andy Warhol, and shared a performance space with the likes of Keith Haring and Klaus Nomi. Lypsinkas act  a darkly funny dissection of femininity and artifice  was a fixture of the downtown art scene beginning in the early 1980s, attracting regular audiences at the Pyramid Club and garnering praise from critics like Ben Brantley of The New York Times. Now, the New Group is in talks with Epperson to produce a virtual Lypsinka show, with Chloe Sevigny attached to direct.

But first, Pride Night at Ballet Theater. In an interview, Epperson discussed his history with the company, and what it means for someone with an often-unnoticed job there to suddenly be given a major platform. Here are edited excerpts from the conversation.

You started playing piano for dancers in Mississippi, but what was your introduction to Ballet Theater?

I was very friendly with one of the singing teachers that I was working for, and I was at her home around Christmastime. One of her daughters put a copy of Vogue in my lap, and the page was open to a photo of Gelsey Kirkland. Two years later I was working at the Jackson Ballet, and we watched Gelsey Kirkland in this Nutcracker with Baryshnikov on PBS. Three months later, Live From Lincoln Center had a whole evening of American Ballet Theater. And Baryshnikov and Kirkland did Theme and Variations. I said to myself: This is the Judy Garland of ballet, and I want to meet her. I want to work with her.
Angie Hansen knows what she wants: energy, professionalism, a gift for ad-lib. And then somebody that really likes to scare people, she said cheerfully.

As the creative director of Blood Manor, a 10,000-square-foot haunted house nestled inside a TriBeCa skyscraper, Hansen assembles 60 performers annually, many of them Blood Manor veterans. She sorts the newcomers into appropriate roles  clowns, killers, corpse brides, victims weeping silicone wounds. In just three or four days of rehearsal, she teaches them to terrify the thousand or so guests who enter Blood Manor, a Halloween staple since 2005, each weekend evening.

About two hours north, at Headless Horseman in Ulster Park, N.Y., David Berman leads acting workshops for seasonal scare actors. Because it takes more than ghoulish makeup and vibrating vocal cords to make ticket holders scream.
Mary Lattimore made her public harp debut in an Arbys parking lot.

Her mother, Lelia Hall Lattimore, thought they might be late for her teenage daughters recital the moment they left their small North Carolina town for the states largest city, Charlotte. When a tire blew, she knew they were doomed. As they fished the harp from the trunk to retrieve the spare, Lelia had an idea: Why didnt Mary play right there?

As Mary began to pluck 47 strings in her new floral-print dress, customers abandoned roast beef sandwiches. The tow-truck driver, Angel, marveled. Most customers had never heard a harp live, let alone in a fast-food parking lot.

I stepped out of my bratty teenager self and went for it. I was able to see the comedy, because playing the harp is fun, Lattimore said by phone from her Los Angeles apartment, as her cat, Jenny, meowed to be let inside the studio where the harp lives. She announced the last word with a relish that suggested the Renaissance staple is rarely described as such. I love playing for people who have never seen a harp, who think its a museum piece. I want people to feel like they can approach it.
The dystopia is now, Gary Shteyngart said in an urgent tone, a few decibels shy of a yelp.

We were sitting in Union Square on an unseasonably warm October morning, as people around us walked dogs, pushed strollers and scrolled through their phones in the post-apocalyptic sunlight. Everything looked and felt weirdly normal.

Not long ago, a man ranting in a public square about global collapse might have seemed like a messianic crank. But given the state of things  as we linger in the nebulous middle-of-the-end or end-of-the-middle of the pandemic  who could disagree? The dystopia is now.

Shteyngart, 49, has often conjured up blistering satirical visions of the world, in novels like Absurdistan, about an obese, lovesick Russian oligarch who becomes a minister in a post-Soviet republic called Absurdsvan, and Super Sad True Love Story, a black comedy set in a futuristic America where everyone carries digital devices and livestreams their thoughts, hotness ratings and credit scores.

But now, dystopia has caught up to him, and hes had to recalibrate. Last year, he was 240 pages into a new dystopian comedy  about a futuristic Manhattan where New York University has seized control of half the city  when the first wave of coronavirus infections hit New York. Compared with his arch sendup of academia, I thought, this might be worse, he said.
In 1997, two women in their 50s, one Black and one white, both smiling, posed for an unlikely picture  though it wasnt the first time they had been photographed together. Forty years before, after the Supreme Court issued its decision in Brown v. Board of Education, Elizabeth Eckford was one of the nine Black students who enrolled in a previously all-white high school in Little Rock, Ark. In an iconic photograph from that era, a demure Eckford walks to her new school for the first time, her arm cradling a notebook and her eyes covered by sunglasses, while a white student named Hazel Bryan can be seen over Eckfords shoulder, her face contorted into a hateful roar.

Bryan had apologized to Eckford in the years since, and the fact that the two women had become friendly, agreeing to be photographed together in 1997, was welcomed as a sign of how much the United States had changed over four decades. To the white minister who had accompanied the Black teenagers to high school in 1957, the photographic evidence of their reconciliation was the stuff of Scripture, he wrote, a glimpse of the Promised Land.

I recalled this bit of late-90s triumphalism while reading The Shattering, Kevin Boyles rich, layered account of the 1960s, which necessarily traces the key events of the preceding decade, including the experience of Eckford and the Little Rock Nine. Boyle, a historian at Northwestern and the author of the National Book Award-winning Arc of Justice (2004), is fully aware that to write a book about the 60s is to cover extremely worn ground. The decade has been amply chronicled  a beloved subject of Boomers recalling a time when their cohort started to come of age.

In the standard history, Boyle writes, the shattering started with the idealism of a new generation, which rejected the stultifying compromises required by the relentlessly moderate consensus of the postwar era. But newer scholarship has complicated that story in ways that even challenge its central premises, he continues, putting less emphasis on the preceding decades consensus and more on its violence, embedding the 1960s in the long histories of the civil rights movement and modern conservatism. How are we to understand the 60s, now that so much history has changed?
The debate over Teslas valuation rages on. Tesla is worth more than virtually every other major carmaker in the world combined. Analysts are squarely of two minds about its current level. In the bull camp: Daniel Ives of Wedbush Securities, who tweeted yesterday, Tesla hitting $1 trillion is just for starters. In the bear camp: Craig Irwin of Roth Capital Partners, who wrote in a client note last week that Teslas stock  which then traded at 173 times next years earnings  was egregiously overvalued.

Whats undeniable is Musks rapidly rising net worth. Teslas latest accomplishment puts its C.E.O. above Jeff Bezos as the worlds richest person, and Musk could be setting a new high bar for executive compensation. Three years ago, when Tesla was worth $50 billion, the companys board promised Musk a huge grant of stock if he could, among other things, bolster the companys market value beyond $650 billion. Last week, Musk collected a stock grant worth roughly $8 billion. He could qualify for another $8 billion stock payout as soon as the middle of next year.

Image

HERES WHATS HAPPENING

A unionization drive at Amazon warehouses in New York City advances. The National Labor Relations Board ruled yesterday that the campaign at Staten Island facilities could go to a vote. A Times investigation this year found that Amazon had pressured employees at one warehouse to return to work before Covid case counts were under control.
Microsoft produced its most profitable quarter. Again.

On Tuesday, the company said that revenue in the three months ending in September hit $45.3 billion, up 22 percent from a year earlier. Profit rose 48 percent to $20.5 billion.

The results surpassed analysts upbeat expectations, and shares were up slightly in after-market trading.

The earnings were driven by success in its Microsoft Cloud business, which includes Office 365 subscriptions and Azure. Sales of those products to commercial customers grew 36 percent in the quarter to $20.7 billion. Analysts say customers are signing bigger and longer contracts, sending Azure sales up 50 percent over the same period last year. The company said the demand was broad based, across industries and geographies.

Satya Nadella, the companys chief executive, said in a statement that increasing the use of technology can be a deflationary force in an inflationary economy, arguing that digital tools can increase productivity and affordability.
We hit this number thanks to the many, many thousands of individual conversations, Mr. King said.

As part of its efforts, Tyson negotiated an agreement with the United Food and Commercial Workers union, which represents several thousand of its workers, to endorse the mandate in return for more benefits for all workers, like paid sick leave. The unions president, Marc Perrone, applauded the vaccination efforts on Tuesday.

Working together, the UFCW and Tyson set a new standard with this vaccine mandate, and have proved whats possible when we listen to workers and negotiate the implementation of vaccination mandates fairly and responsibly, Mr. Perrone said in a statement.

We urge every company, across this country, to do what is right by their frontline workers and work cooperatively with their unions and employees to help end this pandemic and keep all of Americas essential workers and their families safe, he added.

Tyson is offering employees religious or medical accommodations to the mandate and does not have a cutoff date for evaluating those considerations, a spokesman said. It will assess requests based on careful consideration of the individual facts and our commitment to the safety of our employees. Some unvaccinated employees granted exemptions, though, will be placed on leave.

To those who remain unvaccinated  this is your choice, and we respect that choice, Mr. King said. If you change your mind and want to rejoin Tyson  let us know. Our doors are open.

The results of Tysons vaccine mandate will be examined closely by other companies, as well as federal and local officials, as they weigh their own approaches to vaccine mandates. Last month, President Biden asked the Occupational Safety and Health Administration to order large employers to require vaccination against the coronavirus or weekly testing. Many companies are now preparing to move forward but have been awaiting more details.

So far, vaccine mandates have largely proven effective. United Airlines, which said in August that it would require all employees to provide proof of vaccination, recently announced that more than 99 percent of its work force was vaccinated. In California, health care employers have reported vaccination rates of 90 percent or higher.

Legal experts generally say companies have the right to make vaccine mandates, but there has been pushback, particularly from local politicians. Arkansas is seeking to require employers that mandate vaccines to allow for exemptions, including a testing alternative. And Gov. Greg Abbott of Texas issued an executive order banning private employers from mandating coronavirus vaccines.
That current may still be at half-tide: Almost twice as many people came through in 2019. But places that cater to the citys permanent dining class are overflowing, and not metaphorically. To hold all the regulars who rely on its lasagna, its exceptional eggplant-and-zucchini parmigiana, grilled pizza and party-size fritto misto, Fresco by Scotto has built an outdoor pavilion that may need its own ZIP code. Tables are jammed in along the sidewalk and under an in-street shelter cascading with lemon branches and grapevines, looking better than they would in nature. Music blasts, giving rise to dance parties that are immediately posted on Instagram. Every night looks like a casting call for The Real Housewives of East 52nd Street.

Steakhouses are so numerous in Midtown that the area may be the world capital of creamed spinach. Wolfgangs now carries off the Germanic bluntness it cribbed from Peter Luger more convincingly than Luger itself. For a certain kind of window shopper, the glass meat locker inside Gallaghers gives off a luster that makes the displays at Cartier look rinky-dink. Sparks, grand without being beautiful, has one of the few steakhouse wine lists that dont try to strong-arm you into getting an expensive, jackbooted red.

Which you prefer is personal and beyond rationality, but in many ways Wollenskys Grill is ideal. Its essentially a Third Avenue saloon constructed, in 1980, out of the best parts of a steakhouse. Without the rituals and chest-thumping you might encounter next door at Smith & Wollensky, you get the meat (including prime rib on its own, in a sandwich or, its highest and best use, in a prime rib hash from out of the past). You get the potatoes (the waffle fries are cooked to a burnished, crisp medium-well). You get the shrimp cocktail (or better still, a whole chilled lobster). And you get the martinis, stirred by bartenders who would laugh in your face if you called them mixologists. They are, for many loyalists, the whole point of the place.

***

As if a curfew were still in effect, many restaurants in Midtown close early these days. It was 7:30 on a Tuesday night when I strolled into Aburiya Kinnosuke, on East 45th Street.

Conversations took place behind sliding wooden doors in half-private rooms over a steady current of vintage hard bop. A table was free, but the kitchen was closing in 15 minutes. What to order? Obviously something from the robata grill that sets this izakaya apart, maybe the koji-marinated chicken, or a mackerel, or yellowtail, still tenuously and gelatinously attached to the collar bone.

Midtown is full of places like Aburiya Kinnosuke, where you can fly from New York to Tokyo in under five minutes. You could slip into a counter seat at Katsu-hama and start pulverizing sesame seeds with a mortar and pestle to thicken the dipping sauce for a pork cutlet that arrives on a wire cage just above the plate, to keep it from steaming the crunch of its deeply craggy shell. Or climb the stairs to Hide-Chan for a bowl of Hakata-style ramen, the pork-bone soup cloudy under a black pool of charred garlic oil.

A separate tour could take in restaurants that together form a kind of living museum of the history of Japanese food in New York. There is Nippon, the stage where, since 1963, soba, fugu and other things have danced into the citys consciousness. There is Hatsuhana, the sushi-ya that in 1983 became the first Japanese restaurant to get a four-star review in The New York Times.
Headliner

Kaiseki Room by Yamada

Isao Yamada, a kaiseki master from Fukuoka in southern Japan, trained at the Tsuji Culinary School in Osaka, went on to a highly rated kaiseki restaurant in Kyoto, and eventually became the chef at David Bouleys Brushstroke. Now, hes opening this intimate kaiseki restaurant. What he is doing, he says, is traditional, but with a New York cast (think: a tomato-cured Hudson Valley silver trout) and relying mostly on imported ingredients. The sous-chef is Yoo Jung Suh, a Korean chef who studied at the Culinary Institute of America and who also worked in Japan and at Brushstroke. Mr. Yamada is in partnership with the Group, the owner of the Omakase Room by Mitsu in the West Village, and the Boucherie restaurants. (The Groups La Grande Boucherie occupies most of the location.) The restaurant, consisting of 10 seats at the bar and another six at tables, is done in pale wood curved in decorative slats and blocks. The interior was devised by Pierre Renart, Julien Legeard and the Groups founder Emil Stefkov. Theres a single seasonal menu of 11 beautifully presented courses, for $300, which for fall includes toro tartare with osetra caviar, chawanmushi with uni and horsehair crab, a selection of sashimi and imported Sanuki-Wagyu from cattle that were fed olives.

145 West 53rd Street (6 Avenue Passageway), kaisekiroom.nyc.

Opening

Bartusi

From LArtusi, half a block away and known for its Italian fare and wines, comes this smaller Italian wine bar with plates to share. Black bass ceviche with melon, basil and Calabrian chile; tuna crudo with confit orange, capers and celery; lamb meatballs with hazelnuts; broccoli cacio e pepe; and braised short rib lasagna give you some idea of the offerings. (Opens Wednesday)

520 Hudson Street (West 10th Street), 646-517-1112, bartusinyc.com.

Jack & Charlies No. 118

Vintage supper club decor with leather banquettes, antique mirrors and white linen defines this space, which is organized into separate dining areas. Oysters figure prominently, as do specialties like clam chowder, Caesar and wedge salads, cedar-plank salmon, tomahawk steak for two and, on Fridays and Saturdays, slow-roasted prime rib with horseradish cream and popovers, to book in advance. Ed Cotton, a Daniel alumnus, is the chef presiding over the kitchen, which has a wood oven. The bar features martinis in several iterations and snacks like shepherds pie croquettes. There is no Jack or Charlie involved; the name evokes an old New York speakeasy.

118 Greenwich Avenue (13th Street), 212-680-4265, jackandcharlies118.com.

Recette

Having nothing to do with Jesse Schenkers West Village restaurant of the same name, which closed in 2016, this spinoff of the Consulate on the Upper West Side has the same owners (Igor Drca, Metodija Mihajlov and Miljan Komnenic) and chef (Alan Vargas) as their other restaurant. The mostly French menu is practically a clone.

103 Havemeyer Street (Hope Street), Williamsburg, Brooklyn, 347-227-8829, recettebrooklyn.com.
SANTA FE, N.M.  The Santa Fe County district attorney said on Tuesday that she was not ruling out criminal charges in last weeks fatal shooting on a film set. The actor Alec Baldwin was rehearsing with a gun that he had been told did not contain live ammunition when it went off, killing the films cinematographer and wounding its director.

We havent ruled out anything, the district attorney, Mary Carmack-Altwies, said in a telephone interview. Everything at this point, including criminal charges, is on the table.

Ms. Carmack-Altwies said that the investigation was focusing on ballistics in an effort to determine what kind of round was in the gun that killed Halyna Hutchins, the cinematographer  and who had placed the ammunition in the gun.

There were an enormous amount of bullets on this set, and we need to find out what kinds they were, Ms. Carmack-Altwies said. Detectives said that they recovered three revolvers, spent casings and ammunition  in boxes, loose and in a fanny pack  while executing a search warrant on the set, according to an inventory of the items released on Monday. The inventory did not specify what kind of ammunition was found on the set.
The changes include appointing a captain to oversee child abuse cases in the police Special Victims Division, effectively reinstituting a position that was eliminated a year ago; requiring home visits by the police in suspected abuse cases when someone in the family has a domestic violence history; and restarting a cross-training program between the Police Department and A.C.S. that the city stopped during the pandemic.

Last week at a City Council hearing, the Special Victims Division commander, Deputy Inspector Michael King, told Council members that an investigator in Jayces case had made a mistake by not filing a report that would have required officers to visit Jayces apartment. He said that going forward, officers will make more unannounced visits before closing cases and that if a child misses a medical appointment, that will also trigger a home visit.

The childrens services commissioner, David A. Hansell, said in a statement that the changes will better align our expertise with N.Y.P.D.s capabilities when investigating the most serious abuse cases and strengthen our ability to protect children and meet the needs of their families.

Safe Horizon, the nonprofit that runs centers where children in suspected abuse cases are interviewed and sometimes physically examined, said in a statement that it would increase focus on which injuries are medically significant and, at one center, discuss a childs injuries with a medical team when an exam cannot happen immediately.

Child welfare caseworkers in New York City field over 1,000 reports a week of mistreatment and neglect  everything from dirty clothes and chronically missed meals to a broken arm. While child abuse experts say a death is often preceded by increasing violence, it is easier to look back and see how tragedy might have been avoided than to predict when mortal danger lies just ahead.

The child welfare agency, which has stepped up efforts in recent years to keep families together rather than send children to foster care, is under competing pressures: It spends much of its limited resources investigating maltreatment reports, often filed by estranged partners, which can lead to the unnecessary removal of a child from a home, according to lawyers for parents in the system. But if the agency plays down an abuse report, it risks leaving a child in harms way.
A memorial at the shooting site, Mountainview Avenue near the entrance to the New York State Thruway, is held every year at 4 p.m., close to the time of the attack. The ceremony this year, last Wednesday, drew a crowd of more than 500.

Mr. Gilbert, who was in a getaway vehicle when he was taken into custody, was convicted of robbery and felony murder for his role in the attack. He was unapologetic at his sentencing in 1983.

The rulers, the rich and their armed mercenaries are the only lives valued by this court, he said at the time, reading from a prepared statement. We say that if they sentence us to 1,000 years or shoot us at dawn tomorrow, it will not save this social system.

When he was caught, he was with Kathy Boudin, a fellow left-wing radical with whom he had a young son. Ms. Boudin, who was released from prison in 2003 after serving 22 years as part of a plea deal, went on to become a professor at Columbia University.

The couples son, Chesa Boudin, was elected the district attorney of San Francisco in 2019, and led a campaign urging his fathers release from prison. Mr. Boudins press office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In a statement issued after Mr. Cuomo commuted Mr. Gilberts sentence, Mr. Boudin said he was overcome with emotion.

Although he never used a gun or intended for anyone to get hurt, my fathers crime caused unspeakable harm and devastated the lives of many separate families, Mr. Boudin said in the statement. I will continue to keep those families in my heart; I know they can never get their loved ones back.

In announcing the decision to grant Mr. Gilbert clemency, Mr. Cuomo cited his work in AIDS education and prevention while he was incarcerated, as well as his work as a teacher and law library clerk.
The mayors change of heart comes as he is actively piecing together a bid for governor of New York State. The developer, the Vornado Realty Trust chief executive Steven Roth, is one of New Yorks most prolific donors, though city records indicate he has not donated to Mr. de Blasios mayoral campaigns.

A spokesman for Mr. Roth declined to comment. A spokeswoman for the mayor, Danielle Filson, said, This administration installed a record number of bike lanes, bus lanes, and busways last year  in a budget crisis and a pandemic-shortened installation season. Were going to beat those records this year, and this busway will be part of that legacy.

Mr. de Blasios ambivalence about the Fifth Avenue plan comes during the deadliest year for traffic fatalities during his eight years in office and as some of his other transportation priorities appear to have fallen by the wayside. The transportation department has been reconsidering plans to put a protected bike lane on a main thoroughfare in Sunset Park, Brooklyn according to one of the two people familiar with the mayors decisions.

Though Mr. de Blasio does not oversee the buses, which are operated by the state-controlled Metropolitan Transportation Authority, he does control the citys streets.

In June 2020, he announced he would turn over 20 miles of streets to buses, installing 3.5 miles of busways along five major thoroughfares and an additional 16.5 miles of dedicated bus lanes. Busways severely restrict local car traffic as a way to increase bus speeds and reliability.

More than 40 different bus routes serving all five boroughs run down Fifth Avenue, and congestion there can delay service citywide. Before the pandemic, 75,000 bus riders made daily trips on the avenue.
Oct. 26, 2021, 9:52 p.m. ET Oct. 26, 2021, 9:52 p.m. ET Katie Glueck, Dana Rubinstein and

Image Curtis Sliwa, right, the Republican candidate for mayor, faced off against his Democratic challenger, Eric Adams, in the final debate before Tuesdays election. Credit... WABC-TV and the New York City Campaign Finance Board

[Follow our live coverage of N.Y.C. elections.]

The final debate in the New York City mayors race devolved into a chaotic contest Tuesday night marked by name-calling, lecturing, personal remarks and even profanity as the long-shot Republican candidate, Curtis Sliwa, sought to knock Eric Adams, the Democratic nominee, off-kilter at every turn.

Mr. Sliwa faces extraordinarily difficult odds against Mr. Adams, and for much of the campaign, Mr. Adams has cast himself as a mayor-in-waiting who is already preparing to govern the nations largest city, ignoring Mr. Sliwas efforts to coax him into confrontation.

But on Tuesday, the candidates did clash at times, and Mr. Sliwa spent much of the debate hectoring and interrupting Mr. Adams, and occasionally jolting him out of the rise-above-it-all demeanor that he deployed during their first debate last week. Mr. Adams lashed Mr. Sliwa for faking crimes and even over his record on child support.

That is scurrilous, Mr. Sliwa protested.

The two candidates staked out starkly different positions on matters from vaccine mandates to congestion pricing to outdoor dining, while finding common ground on some education and public safety issues.

Still, the personal and political divide between the nominees was repeatedly thrown into sharp relief for viewers who tuned in one week before Election Day.

Here are five takeaways from the debate:

Mr. Sliwa needed an election-altering moment. He didnt get one.

Given New York Citys overwhelmingly Democratic tilt, any Republican nominee would face a steep climb in a mayoral contest. But Mr. Sliwa, whom Mr. Adams has referred to as a clown, may face an especially hard challenge.

He has admitted, as Mr. Adams noted repeatedly, to faking crimes for publicity when he was younger. He is perhaps as well-known these days for owning more than a dozen cats as he is for any sweeping vision for the city. And while Mr. Sliwa has tried to make public safety a signature issue that galvanizes voters, that effort is complicated by Mr. Adamss background as a former police officer.

Taken together, Mr. Sliwa needed something of a miracle to change the seeming trajectory of the race  and he did not appear to get one. He did seem to catch Mr. Adams off guard at times, opening the debate by forcefully questioning Mr. Adams about interactions with gang members, which sent Mr. Adams veering into attack mode himself.

But if Mr. Sliwa sought to produce any damaging new information about Mr. Adams that would make many voters seriously reconsider their choices, it was not immediately clear what that would be, since he pushed many familiar lines of attack.

And as the debate wore on, Mr. Adams returned to his posture of ignoring Mr. Sliwa, looking at the camera instead of at his opponent, skipping opportunities to question or engage Mr. Sliwa, and insisting that his focus was on the voters of New York City.

The two men clashed over one of the citys biggest crises: homelessness.

Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 1:49 - 0:00 transcript Candidates Spar Over Homelessness in N.Y.C. Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate for mayor, criticized Mayor Bill de Blasios social services commissioner, while his Democratic challenger, Eric Adams, called for building more housing and converting empty hotel rooms to address the crisis. Look at my track record working with the emotionally disturbed and the homeless for 42 years as leader of the Guardian Angels. Weve been out in the streets tending to their needs, getting them food and clothing, these lost souls. And the answer of de Blasio and his horrible director of homeless services, Steven Banks, that my opponent, Eric Adams, said: Oh, hes doing an excellent job. I would keep him on if Im elected mayor. Eighty shelters shoved into neighborhoods. No transparency, no services for the homeless. They have to get in by 10 oclock at night. Theyre kicked out the door. They cause all kinds of problems. As a result, we are not compassionate. We are not caring. I would like you, Eric Adams, to condemn your partner and your teammate, Bill de Blasio, for the worst of the many worst programs hes conducted. And please say youre not going to hire Steve Banks if youre lucky enough to get elected mayor. Mr. Adams, whats your, whats your plan? A real issue and lets be clear, these are our neighbors. These are our former residents that lived next to us, and there is a level of compassion that comes with it. And so heres my plan. Number one, we have 25,000 potential apartments we can build. Permanent apartments, not homeless shelters in our outer boroughs and those hotels that we can retrofit. Number two, we have to stop the homeless crisis by ensuring we do housing subsidies for those children and families that are being displaced from their homes. Number three, we need the judges to use Kendras Law appropriately, for those who cant take care of themselves, thats the street homelessness. And then lets partner our police with mental health professionals so that we dont have homeless in our subway system. And theres nothing dignified about sleeping on the streets. Build trust, invest in programs like Fountain House and we can turn this homeless crisis around. Curtis Sliwa, the Republican candidate for mayor, criticized Mayor Bill de Blasios social services commissioner, while his Democratic challenger, Eric Adams, called for building more housing and converting empty hotel rooms to address the crisis. Credit Credit... Pool photo by Eduardo Munoz

Homelessness is one of the most pressing issues that the next mayor will face.

There were nearly 48,000 homeless people, including almost 15,000 children, sleeping in the citys shelter system every night in August, according to the Coalition for the Homeless.

The overall figure for August also included 18,357 single adults, close to a record.

Asked how they would tackle the homeless issue, Mr. Sliwa skirted the question and instead attacked Mr. Adams and his relationship with Mayor Bill de Blasio.

The single adult population in homeless shelters has increased 60 percent since Mr. de Blasio took office in 2014. The mayor has cited homelessness as one of the issues he has struggled with the most during his two terms.

Weve been out in the streets tending to their needs, getting them food and clothing, these lost souls, Mr. Sliwa said before quickly pivoting to criticizing Mr. de Blasio and his social services commissioner, whom Mr. Adams has praised.

I would like you, Eric Adams, to condemn your partner and your teammate Bill de Blasio, Mr. Sliwa said.

Mr. Adams ignored Mr. Sliwas remark, calling homelessness a real issue before laying out a more detailed proposal.

Mr. Adams talked about his plan to turn 25,000 underused hotels rooms in the boroughs outside of Manhattan into permanent single-room occupancy housing for the homeless. Many hotels outside the main tourist and business districts in Manhattan were built to be shelters, Mr. Adams said.

We have to get out of the shelter business and get into the business of getting people permanent housing, he said.

Mr. Adams also said he would increase housing subsidies for families at risk of losing their homes, use a state law to get homeless people who cant take care of themselves off the street, and partner with the police and mental health professionals to move homeless people out of the subways.

These are our neighbors. These are our former residents that lived next to us, Mr. Adams said. Theres a level of compassion that comes with it.

The debate turned nasty quickly.

Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 1:31 - 0:00 transcript N.Y.C. Debate for Mayor Turns Testy Eric Adams chastised Curtis Sliwa, saying he was acting immaturely, and Mr. Sliwa accused Mr. Adams of actually living in New Jersey. I would agree with you that you should display a level of discipline. They laid out rules here and you should try to show that. Youre acting like my son when he was 4 years old. Show some discipline so we can get to all of these issues. Eric, show compassion. Show care. Dont just be a robot. Mr. Sliwa, your opponent has at times, weve heard over the last couple of weeks, several times, called you a clown. He has called you a Trump mini me. I wanted to see your reaction to that. But I also, by your own admission, you faked crimes, a kidnapping, a robbery in the 90s. So why should voters in New York trust you? Well, you know, its interesting he calls me a clown. I guess Im Pagliacci right across the street, as you know, I could be in Lincoln Center. Thats so beneath you, Eric Adams, especially after you wrote an op-ed piece praising the Guardian Angels. Did I make mistakes early on? Yes, and Ive apologized for them. But talking about faking, you fake where you live, Eric Adams. We still dont know where you live. You live in Jersey, most people say. And then you blame a homeless person for your accounting problems with the I.R.S. For the second time, youve gotten in trouble for wrong filings, and youve blamed some homeless man that you had as your accountant. I hope you dont appoint him, if you get elected mayor, the budget director for the city of New York because Bill de Blasio, your friend, has done enough damage to this city. Eric Adams chastised Curtis Sliwa, saying he was acting immaturely, and Mr. Sliwa accused Mr. Adams of actually living in New Jersey. Credit Credit... Pool photos by Eduardo Munoz

Mr. Sliwa suggested that Mr. Adams consorted with murderers. Mr. Adams noted that Mr. Sliwa had admitted to faking crimes.

And the debate had barely begun.

On substantive issues, this debate proved similar to last weeks contest. But tonally, it proved far nastier.

After Mr. Adams argued that he would have engaged more energetically with union leaders on vaccine mandates, Mr. Sliwa suggested that Mr. Adams talk to his friend and teammate Mr. de Blasio, who will soon be leaving office.

You are acting like my son when he was 4 years old, Mr. Adams shot back. Show some discipline so we can get to all of these issues. Youre interrupting, youre being disrespectful.

Mr. Sliwa countered that Mr. Adams should stop being a robot and show compassion for city workers who risk losing their salaries for failing to get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

Soon enough, the conversation got even more personal.

Mr. Sliwa accused Mr. Adams of actually living in New Jersey, an allusion to questions that have been raised about Mr. Adamss residency, and he mocked Mr. Adamss decision to blame his tax-filing errors on his purportedly homeless accountant.

You fake where you live, Eric Adams, Mr. Sliwa said.

Mr. Adams said that Mr. Sliwa was demonstrating clown-like actions, and then accused him of hiding money so he would not have to pay child support.

That is scurrilous that you would say that, Mr. Sliwa said. How dare you bring my family into this?

The tenor of the debate did not go unnoticed.

I assume youre not going to send each other holiday cards come December, said Bill Ritter, who moderated the debate.

On some hot-button issues, the candidates agreed  a reminder that the next mayor will not come from the citys left wing.

Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 1:35 - 0:00 transcript Mayoral Candidates Call For More Policing Eric Adams, the Democratic nominee, and his Republican challenger, Curtis Sliwa, both advocated increased policing in New York City to combat a rise in crime. Mayor de Blasio this year disbanded a controversial plainclothes unit, the anti-crime unit, because it was so aggressive. It was involved, of course, in the death of Eric Garner back in 2014. Mr. Adams, you have said that you want to bring that group back of undercover police officers, albeit, you have said, with many changes. Why do you want it back? Well, I have a clear plan on public safety and that fits into my overall plan on public safety. If you have the right plainclothes anti-gun unit, that unit would target gangs, target those who are using guns. What you do is keep the imbalance and make sure that those officers are doing their jobs correctly. How would I do it? They would, number one, we have the technology. Turn on the cameras. Make sure those cameras remain on so that you see the interaction between police and those who are being identified as committing crimes, and have the officers assigned appropriately. Listen, Its about conflict resolution, well-trained officers, not what we did in the past under the street crime unit, the unit that I talked about in federal court when I testified against that abuse. Weve got to keep it real here because the problem within the N.Y.P.D. is theyve gone from 5,500 detectives down to 3,500. They cant investigate all the cases. So you look in Brooklyn, where Eric Adams is still the borough president, three out of four of the gang gun cases are not being investigated. There are no arrests that have been made. Eric Adams, the Democratic nominee, and his Republican challenger, Curtis Sliwa, both advocated increased policing in New York City to combat a rise in crime. Credit Credit... Pool photo by Eduardo Munoz

Mr. Adams and Mr. Sliwa may disagree on many of the specifics, but both fundamentally believe in expanding the role of the police in promoting public safety.

Mr. Adams, who has said he was a victim of police brutality and spent much of his police career advocating for changes from within the system, also described his plan for bringing back an overhauled plainclothes unit to target gangs, target those who are using guns. His proposal has discomfited some New Yorkers who want to see the power of the police scaled back.

And Mr. Sliwa indicated, in his typical forceful language, that he wants to empower the police to the greatest extent possible.

Issues of education  and the best way to make public schools more integrated and equitable  do not necessarily break down along neat ideological lines. Both Mr. Adams and Mr. Sliwa have expressed concerns over Mr. de Blasios decision to end the gifted and talented program for elementary school children. They have said, instead, that they want to expand the program, positions that they revisited on Tuesday night.

A moment of levity over pets and diet.

Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 1:11 - 0:00 transcript N.Y.C. Mayoral Candidates Compliment Each Other When asked near the end of their debate to say something nice about each other, Eric Adams admired Curtis Sliwas dedication to saving cats and Mr. Sliwa praised Mr. Adams for choosing not to eat animals. Could you say something nice about your opponent, and lets start with Mr. Adams. The cats of, you know, I take my hat off to Curtis, what hes doing with cats. I think we need to be humane to all living beings, and thats include our animals. And as a person that believes its important that we show compassion to each other and to our animals. And so I commend him for what hes doing around cats. Mr. Sliwa, you have the   I commend Eric, who Ive known for years at a much friendlier time between the both of us, and his promotion of the vegan way of life to avoid serious medical issues, its probably already helped dozens, maybe hundreds, maybe thousands of people. So I applaud you for that, because I have seen the results of people who end up dying and suffering and in pain because they get caught with all kinds of problems: diabetes, high blood pressure, high tension. As someone who has been in the hospital many, many times, I hope one day to be a vegan. Im working on my way. My wife, Nancy, theyre getting me there, Eric. Im like at the vegetarian stage. When asked near the end of their debate to say something nice about each other, Eric Adams admired Curtis Sliwas dedication to saving cats and Mr. Sliwa praised Mr. Adams for choosing not to eat animals. Credit Credit... Pool photo by Eduardo Munoz

For a brief moment, the candidates did not fight with each other. They communed over animals. More precisely, Mr. Sliwa praised Mr. Adamss decision to forgo eating animals, while Mr. Adams praised Mr. Sliwas work in rescuing them.

The moment of bonhomie did not happen without some prodding.

Toward the end of the debate, Mr. Ritter asked the candidates to say something nice about their opponent.

I take my hat off to Curtis, what he is doing with cats, said Mr. Adams, perhaps referring to Mr. Sliwas advocacy for no-kill shelters, or perhaps to the more than a dozen cats that share a 320-square-foot studio apartment with Mr. Sliwa and his wife. I think we need to be humane to all living beings.

Mr. Sliwa was even more effusive in his praise for Mr. Adamss decision to become a vegan.

His promotion of a vegan way of life to avoid serious medical issues has probably already helped dozens, maybe hundreds, maybe thousands of people, Mr. Sliwa said. As someone who has been in the hospital many, many times, I hope one day to be a vegan.

Right now, Mr. Sliwa added, he is at the vegetarian stage.
This is a recipe not only for significant public funds siphoned into corporate treasuries but also for endless frustration and hassle, much like our private health insurance system. And all this for just four weeks of paid leave (the length presently being considered), a fraction of what every other industrialized nation offers. Its not enough to pass something that can merely be called paid leave if its primary function is to anger people who want to take time off from work.

Unfortunately, much of the bill now works this way, thanks to demands made by the likes of Senators Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona, among others. Means testing in the child care program creates similar bureaucratic hurdles, and a money-saving phase-in of subsidies keeps some middle-class families out of the program for the first three years, and maybe permanently with the rumored income cap. Funding for elder care and housing has been slashed by about half of what was previously proposed. Mr. Manchin wants a cap on the advance-payment Child Tax Credit at $60,000 in family income as well as work requirements. And instead of adding a dental benefit to Medicare, seniors might get an $800 coupon.

These policies arent worth selling to a skeptical public. After grinding an expansive agenda into paste, Democrats should not expect voters to re-elect the pastemakers so that they can sculpt the paste into something useful.

Mr. Manchin actually understands how to create policy that the public rallies around. He has put no means-testing restrictions on the universal prekindergarten provision, allowing all families to get two years of early development and instruction for their children. Why? Because he instituted a similar program while he was the governor of West Virginia, and he knows that making it complicated or exclusionary doesnt sell well.

That model of hassle-free, permanent programs should animate the entire project. All of the hazardous choices in this bill are fixable, but these fixes would make it cost more. And if cost is an insurmountable political barrier to passage, then the only way to rebuild faith in government action is by embracing fewer programs, freeing funds to enact them in the simplest and best ways possible.

Democrats could subsequently run on a record of actually solving problems, rather than gesturing in their direction. If all the programs were functional yet time-limited, there could be an argument for trying to win elections on extending them. But the path Democrats are going down now, hoping to mobilize voters around poorly designed programs that lock out many of the middle-class suburban voters they have just started to attract again, is a much bigger risk.

Even if Congress manages to renew the half-measures its currently working on implementing, typically, permanent programs are the only ones that can actually get repaired in Washington. Temporary ones cant, because the fight is always focused on the programs survival, not its merits. The Affordable Care Acts permanence has made it harder to dislodge and easier to rejigger; theres an effort to do so in this bill, by increasing the acts subsidies. By contrast, Republicans allowed the 10-year federal assault weapons ban to expire in 2004 and paid no price at the polls. And that wasnt a program that made citizens traverse dizzying bureaucracy.
And by this point, divestment has spread way beyond colleges and universities. Enormous pension funds serving New York City and state employees have announced that they will sell stocks; earlier this year, the Maine Legislature ordered the states retirement fund to divest; and just last month, Quebecs big pension fund joined the tide. Weve seen entire religious groups  the Episcopalians, the Unitarian Universalists, the U.S. Lutherans  join in the call; the pope has become an outspoken proponent (and many high-profile Catholic institutions have announced they will divest). Mayors of big cities have pledged their support, including Los Angeles, New York, Berlin and London. And an entire country, even: Ireland has announced it will divest its public funds.

And some of the most historically important investors in the world have joined in too: A Rockefeller charity, the heirs to the first great oil fortune, divested early. Just last week, the Ford Foundation got in on the action, adding a great automotive fortune to the tally. This month also saw the first big bank  Frances Banque Postale  announce that it would stop lending to fossil fuel companies before the decade was out.

Since most people dont have oil wells or coal mines in their backyards, divestment is a way to let a lot of people in on the climate fight, because they have a link to a pension fund, mutual fund, endowment or other pot of money. When we began the divestment campaign, our immediate goal was, as we put it, to take away the social license of Big Oil: It was a vehicle to let people know the essential truth about the fossil fuel industry, which is that its oil, gas and coal reserves held five times as much carbon as scientists said we could safely burn. Later this week, the heads of the big oil companies will testify before Congress about whether their companies misled the public about global warming and sought to stymie action on the problem.

Opinion Conversation The climate, and the world, are changing. What challenges will the future bring, and how should we respond to them? What should our leaders be doing?

Al Gore, the 45th vice president of the United States, finds reasons for optimism in the Biden presidency.

Al Gore, the 45th vice president of the United States, finds reasons for optimism in the Biden presidency. What are the worst climate risks in your country?

Select a country, and we'll break down the climate hazards it faces.

Select a country, and we'll break down the climate hazards it faces. Where are Americans suffering most?

Our maps, developed with experts, show where extreme heat is causing the most deaths in the U.S.

Our maps, developed with experts, show where extreme heat is causing the most deaths in the U.S. What does climate devastation look like?

In Sept. 2020, Michael Benson studied detailed satellite imagery. Here's the earth that he saw  and the one he wants to see.

The movement has grown so large that its now also testing the ability of some companies to raise capital. As early as 2017, Peabody was listing divestment as a major concern; by the next year, Shell was warning shareholders that the campaign could have a material adverse effect on the price of our securities and our ability to access equity capital markets.

Early divestment adopters have been handsomely rewarded; over the last five years, the market has gone up at an annual rate of 16 percent, but the oil and gas sector has fallen at an annual rate of 3 percent. Now many investors are putting their money into clean energy, where returns have risen by an annual rate of 22 percent over the same period. And one other sweet result: It was largely alumni of college divestment fights who formed the Sunrise Movement, a group of young climate activists, and championed the proposed Green New Deal; this has been a training ground for activists around the world.
The conventional wisdom about religion in the United States is that the number of people who have no religious affiliation is rising rapidly. In the 1970s, secular Americans (often called the Nones) made up just 5 percent of the population; now, that number has climbed to at least 30 percent. The data suggest that religious groups must be suffering tremendous losses as the Nones continue to increase in size and influence each year.

Thats why a recent report from the Pew Research Center came as a huge surprise. Its most shocking revelation was that, between 2016 and 2020, there was no significant decline in the share of white Americans who identify as evangelical Christians. Instead, the report found the opposite: During Donald Trumps presidency, the number of white Americans who started identifying as evangelical actually grew.

Conservative Christians celebrated the news. For years, stories have appeared in media outlets about how many of the more theologically moderate denominations like Episcopalians and the United Church of Christ have suffered staggering losses in membership. The fact that denominations that allowed women pastors were declining while evangelical churches that took more conservative positions on views of gender and sexuality were holding their own was evidence for evangelicals that conservative religion has staying power. Because these moderate traditions were so much like the culture around them, the story went, it was easy for their members to fall away from church attendance. Evangelicals prided themselves on their distinctiveness from mainstream society, which insulated them from forces like secularization.

But they might hold off on patting themselves on the back too much. The number of self-identified evangelicals has most likely not increased over the last few years because evangelicals have been effective at spreading the Gospel and bringing new converts to the church.
Likewise, Representative Cori Bush of Missouri said on Twitter that the House must investigate and expel members of Congress who helped incite the deadly insurrection on our Capitol.

Bush had actually introduced a House resolution for this purpose just days after the attack. There is no place in the peoples House for these heinous actions, she said at the time, referring to members who attempted to disenfranchise voters and incited this violence.

I firmly believe, she went on, that these members are in breach of their sworn Oath of Office to support and defend the Constitution of the United States. They must be held accountable.

They werent. There was simply no appetite, among House leadership, for such drastic and decisive action. There still isnt. But it was a serious demand, and we should take it seriously.

Bushs resolution rests on Section 3 of the 14th Amendment to the Constitution, which cleared Congress in 1866 and was ratified in 1868:

No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any state, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any state legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any state, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.

In plain English, Congress has the power and authority to expel from office any constitutional officer who engages in sedition and takes up arms against the Constitution of the United States.

The original context for this, obviously, was the Civil War and its immediate aftermath. By the summer of 1865, President Andrew Johnson, a conservative Unionist from Tennessee, had taken charge of Reconstruction with a plan to restore the Southern states as equals, their political and constitutional status essentially unchanged from what it was before the war.

Under Johnsons arrangement, the former Confederate states could operate under their antebellum constitutions, the end of slavery notwithstanding. All-white electorates could elect all-white legislatures and send all-white delegations to Washington. Some of these men were, like Johnson, conservative Unionists. Many more were former rebel leaders. Alexander Stephens  of the infamous Cornerstone Speech  was elected to represent Georgia in the Senate in 1866 after he was arrested and imprisoned as the former vice president of the Confederacy in 1865.
I also suspect I am hardly alone, when hearing the term systemic racism, in quietly wondering how useful it is to use the same word, racism, for both explicit bigotry and inequality, even if the latter is according to race. In his similarly best-selling How to Be an Antiracist, the Boston University professor Ibram Kendi begins by defining a racist as one who is supporting a racist policy through their actions or inaction or expressing a racist idea. He then defines an antiracist as one who is supporting an antiracist policy through their actions or expressing an antiracist idea.

His simplistic definitions declare a dichotomy between racism and antiracism with naught in between  quite a blunt instrument to apply to something as complex as the sociology and history of race in our nation. The looming implication that a system, a society, can be racist is not accidental: It tempts, in anthropomorphizing the complexities of race-based inequalities, how they emerge, and what to do about them.

A symptom of these less-reflective, too-reflexive approaches is the zeal for banishing apostates so common today, when it is accepted as appropriate and cutting-edge to tell those who dissent from the woke take on race to hit the road. Abbot was but one example, prevented from speaking to a broad audience at a university on a topic that has nothing to do with racial preferences, as if his opinions about racial preferences irrevocably taint his climate science work. As if his views on racial preferences themselves are unworthy of reasoned discussion.

Consider, also, cases in which some obviously non-malicious breach of woke liturgy results in some degree of shunning: The week before last, youll recall, I wrote about the University of Michigan professor Bright Sheng. We are back to the age of Galileos inquisitors.

This treatment of different opinions and approaches as heresies is one of many signs that a new religion is afoot. Im not kidding. The Emory University philosophy professor Robert McCauley, for example, teaches that religion tends to anthropomorphize. He sees a major difference between religious belief and science as the tendency for the former to attribute agency and intentionality to things we may not be able to explain. Im thinking of how one might say that a guardian angel facilitated good fortune, or even how a natural disaster may be seen as an act of God. In the new woke religion, society is described as racist, a term originally applied to people.

Note also the eerie parallel between the conceptions of original sin and white privilege as unremovable stains about which one is to maintain a lifelong concern and guilt. Religions dont always have gods, but they usually need sins, which in the new religion is the whiteness that supposedly bestrides everything in our lives.

There is a pitchfork aspect to how this way of thinking is penetrating our institutions of enlightenment. With an unreachable pitilessness, a catechism couched in an elaborate jargon is being imposed almost as if sacred: privilege, decentering, hegemony, antiracism. Nonbelievers, sometimes even agnostics, are cast out, leaving a cowed polity pretending to agree. This is a regrettable kind of religion, aiming to run the state. Thats not how this American experiment was supposed to go.
Zuckerbergs belligerent attitude during the social media giants earnings call yesterday suggests that hes facing a new level of pressure. This would normally be the time for the patented apology that he rolled out whenever times got tough before. No longer. He and the companys P.R. machine are whirring and clicking with indignation and bile. My view is that what were seeing is a coordinated effort to selectively use the leaked documents to paint a false picture of our company, Zuckerberg said.

Which brings us back to the C.E.O. job. According to numerous sources, Facebook will move to shift its corporate structure this week, creating a holding company with a benign name and Zuckerberg at the top. (Meta has been suggested, but it might end up being even more anodyne.) As I wrote last week, this is what Google did when it morphed into Alphabet. Moving Zuckerberg out of harms way is perhaps the smartest strategy, since he has, like most founders, become the personification of the problem. We need time to forget his shortcomings (many) and rediscover his attributes (also many). A new C.E.O. would run the flagship Facebook division and take all the incoming.

The best move would be to bring in someone who is not part of the suffocating inner circle that Zuckerberg has created over the past decade. This group is made up of people who are in constant agreement. They have bragged to me about their longevity and how they could finish one anothers sentences. Can someone from this gang be counted on to make much-needed changes?

But I doubt Zuckerberg could tolerate a smooth outsider coming in  someone like Microsofts president, Brad Smith  who would move to distance himself or herself from the mess and declare that he or she was just there to clean up the wonderful land of Facebook. Instead, I imagine that Zuckerberg would pick someone from the inside whom he already trusts.

One possibility is Andrew Bosworth, a longtime executive who was just elevated to chief technology officer. Or Chris Cox, the chief product officer, who is an exceedingly earnest techie who returned to Facebook after leaving for a year. He has a clean persona, despite having been along for most of the ride. One dark horse might be David Marcus, another quieter executive, who has been overseeing Facebooks financial services products.

The person who I think is unlikely to take over is the current C.O.O., Sheryl Sandberg, who, after a stellar upward trajectory for most of her career, has also become tainted. As Zuckerbergs longtime No. 2, shes the Icarus of Facebook. Putting her in the main seat will not fix whats broken at the company or signal to a now impatient line of regulators that Facebook is ready to change. A restructuring would be an opportunity for her to exit quietly with some grace.

Of course, Zuckerberg could also stand pat and hope for the best, as he has before. Wall Street still loves him. His financial results shine. And his curiously silent board  not one member has made a peep since this whole mess got started  is a willing accomplice to whatever he wants. Most of all, he is a very stubborn man.
The brain of a fruit fly is the size of a poppy seed and about as easy to overlook.

Most people, I think, dont even think of the fly as having a brain, said Vivek Jayaraman, a neuroscientist at the Janelia Research Campus of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute in Virginia. But, of course, flies lead quite rich lives.

Flies are capable of sophisticated behaviors, including navigating diverse landscapes, tussling with rivals and serenading potential mates. And their speck-size brains are tremendously complex, containing some 100,000 neurons and tens of millions of connections, or synapses, between them.

Since 2014, a team of scientists at Janelia, in collaboration with researchers at Google, have been mapping these neurons and synapses in an effort to create a comprehensive wiring diagram, also known as a connectome, of the fruit fly brain.

The work, which is continuing, is time-consuming and expensive, even with the help of state-of-the-art machine-learning algorithms. But the data they have released so far is stunning in its detail, composing an atlas of tens of thousands of gnarled neurons in many crucial areas of the fly brain.
The argument that Facebook prioritized profits isnt convincing, because thats what companies do, said Howard Fischer, a former trial lawyer for the S.E.C. There will very likely be an investigation because its so high profile, but its hard to see a clear case.

Facebook has dismissed the claims made publicly by Ms. Haugen, who appeared before British lawmakers on Monday. Mr. Zuckerberg and other executives have tried to discredit her, saying she isnt an expert in the topics she has discussed publicly. They say there are millions of documents that can counter the documents she took from the company.

We make extensive disclosures in our S.E.C. filings about the challenges we face, including user engagement, estimating duplicate and false accounts, and keeping our platform safe from people who want to use it to harm others, Andy Stone, a company spokesman, said in a statement. All of these issues are known and debated extensively in the industry, among academics and in the media. We are confident that our disclosures give investors the information they need to make informed decisions.

Ms. Haugens lawyers turned to the S.E.C. because of the agencys protection of whistle-blowers, a program created after the 2008 financial crisis to motivate insiders in the financial industry to expose wrongdoing. But Ms. Haugen said in an interview that she had also become convinced that the agency had the clearest path to rein in Facebook, she said.

I filed with the S.E.C. because Facebook lied to regulators and their investors, Ms. Haugen said.

The strategy of the lawyers, who work for Whistleblower Aid, a nonprofit law group, was to focus on whether Mr. Zuckerberg and other executives misrepresented the company to shareholders, journalists and lawmakers in public statements. In 2019, the S.E.C. reached a $100 million settlement with Facebook over accusations that the company kept investors in the dark about a data privacy breach.

Mr. Fischer, the former S.E.C. lawyer, said the strongest potential case he had seen from Ms. Haugens lawyers was the accusation that the company inflated its strength. Ms. Haugens lawyers have pointed to documents showing the companys fear of losing younger users, and a concern among executives about duplicate accounts created by individual users.

Advertisers rely on user numbers as a gauge of Facebooks reach with consumers. One Facebook study noted that there were more accounts for young American adults than actual people. And this year, the company found that of 5,000 new accounts, 32 percent to 56 percent had been created by existing users.
Instead of four days of extreme heat each year, it will see 36  a ninefold increase  by the end of the century, projected Lisa Micheli, founder of the Pepperwood Foundation, a Sonoma County climate research preserve (which has burned, twice, since 2017). Roughly 42 percent of Napa County was consumed by fire in 2020: land, vineyards and some 1,500 structures were lost, including one luxury hotel (Calistoga Ranch) and much of another (Meadowood). More power shut-offs, rising electricity bills, decreasing water supply, increasing infernos: These are problems that will only persist, Dr. Micheli said. Whatever is stressed now, is just going to get worse.

The science is way behind, said Marshall Burke, an associate professor at Stanford University who studies the social and economic impacts of environmental change. The rate of change has been so dramatic. If I was the California tourism industry, Id be really worried.

And yet, it seems, it often isnt. In Napa, the luxury hotel operator Auberge Resorts, which already operates two resorts in the region, is opening a third there, and another in arid Santa Ynez. And from Auberge to Airbnb to fully booked destination-wedding planners, not many cared to discuss how climate change will affect business.

Maybe my head is in the sand, but Im not going to put that negative energy out there! laughed Sonja Burch, founder of Intimate Napa Weddings Napa Valley, a local wedding planner. Smoke-choked pools? B.Y.O. water to weddings? Last-minute cancellations? Everyone is just thinking: Well deal with it when the time comes, she said.

Perhaps reticence goes hand in hand with livelihoods. Californias tourism sector employed 1.1 million people in 2019, according to a report by Dean Runyan Associates, a tourism research firm. Leisure and hospitality is one of the top 10 drivers of Californias enormous economy  below industries like finance, manufacturing and health and education, but above the construction sector, according to a 2019 ranking of gross state products provided by the economist Troy Walter.

Visit California has said little publicly about climate change. At a trade show appearance in September, the president and chief executive, Caroline Beteta, briefly discussed the natural phenomenon of wildfire. She emphasized that while the fires in Tahoe resulted in mass evacuations, the flames didnt infiltrate the tourism corridors.
Minutes before the white bus driver told Claudette Colvin in 1955 to give her seat to a white woman, she had been looking out the window, thinking of a Black boy from her neighborhood in Montgomery, Ala., who had been sentenced to death. She remembers thinking of her English teachers lesson about understanding and taking pride in her history.

Get off, several white passengers told her. Ms. Colvin, who was 15, stayed put, and was promptly arrested.

History had me glued to the seat, she recalled six decades later.

Ms. Colvin, who refused to give up her seat on a segregated Montgomery bus on March 2, 1955, nine months before Rosa Parks, filed a petition on Tuesday to have her juvenile arrest record expunged, saying in an affidavit that justice from the court system was overdue.

Im not doing it for me, Im 82 years old, Ms. Colvin said in an interview on Tuesday. But I wanted my grandchildren and my great-grandchildren to understand that their grandmother stood up for something very important, and that it changed our lives a lot, changed attitudes.
Here are some answers to some common questions about vaccines and children.

How effective is the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for children?

During clinical trials, the children who got the vaccine produced a strong immune response, comparable to the levels of antibodies seen in earlier studies of participants who were 16 to 25. But children in the 5- to 11-year-old group achieved this response with 10 micrograms of the vaccine, a third of the dose given to older children and adults. Pfizer presented trial data, saying its vaccine had an efficacy rate of 91 percent against symptomatic Covid-19.

What about side effects?

Side effects tend to be mild, and similar to those observed in young adults. At higher doses, researchers observed more side effects in younger children, including fever, headache and fatigue, although none were severe, experts said. After lowering the strength of the dose, researchers said they saw fewer side effects.

In rare cases, the vaccine has led to myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart, in young men. Federal health officials have said the heart condition tends to be mild and resolve quickly. None of the children involved in Pfizers clinical trial developed that heart condition, but this was expected given its rarity.

Why should children be vaccinated against Covid-19?

Nearly two million children between the ages of 5 and 11 have been infected, 8,300 have been hospitalized and nearly 100 have died over the course of the pandemic. Dr. Peter Marks, who heads the F.D.A.s division that oversees vaccine approvals, told the F.D.A. panel that Covid is now one of the top 10 causes of death among children 5 to 11.
Since the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis last summer, institutions across the country have grappled with questions of representation and leadership, often propelled by community protests. At the school in Atlanta, the demands echoed a 1988 student uprising at Gallaudet University, the federally chartered private school for the deaf and hard of hearing in Washington.

In that protest, which was viewed as a landmark moment for deaf people, students successfully pushed for the universitys first deaf president and drew attention to longstanding challenges faced by deaf people.

Activism since then, including a controversy that saw two board members at Gallaudet resign in 2020 while saying the school discriminated against Black deaf people in hiring and promotions, has increasingly evoked both race and disability. Three decades after the original Gallaudet protest, many in the deaf community say they are still fighting some of the same battles.

The protests in Atlanta followed the hiring of Ms. Buckner in September. She replaced the former superintendent, John Serrano, who resigned in May after four years working as the schools first deaf Latino leader.

The Atlanta school said it interviewed every applicant who met minimum qualifications for the position. Meghan Frick, a spokeswoman for the Georgia Department of Education, said it stands opposed to audism and other forms of prejudice. She described Ms. Buckner as an educational leader who was proficient in American Sign Language, or A.S.L.
New U.S. travel rules, set to take effect Nov. 8, will allow entry of unvaccinated children and a narrow group of unvaccinated travelers from countries where shots are scarce.

New York Citys biggest police union sues over the citys vaccine mandate. Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 0:52 - 0:00 transcript Municipal Workers Protest Against N.Y.C. Vaccine Mandate A large crowd, including many fire, police and sanitation workers, took to the streets in New York to protest the citys vaccine mandate. [siren] No vaccine mandate. No vaccine   No vaccine mandate. No vaccine mandate. No vaccine mandate. U.S.A., U.S.A. No vaccine mandate. No vaccine mandate. [siren] [crowd cheering] A large crowd, including many fire, police and sanitation workers, took to the streets in New York to protest the citys vaccine mandate. Credit Credit... Ed Jones/Agence France-Presse  Getty Images The largest police union in New York City asked a judge on Monday to allow unvaccinated police officers to continue working, despite the citys recently imposed vaccine mandate, which requires all municipal workers to have received at least one coronavirus vaccine dose by Nov. 1. In a lawsuit filed in Staten Island, which is home to many police officers and has a vaccination rate that lags behind the citywide average, the Police Benevolent Association of New York said it opposed a vaccine mandate for police officers that does not allow the option of being tested weekly instead of being vaccinated. The lawsuit also claimed that the mandate  which the mayor announced last week  does not contain sufficient protections for officers who might object to the vaccines because of religious beliefs. Mayor Bill de Blasio has said that the city will be offering religious accommodation, but that valid religious exemptions are rare. While most lawsuits trying to stop government vaccine mandates in New York and elsewhere have failed to gain traction, some federal judges have appeared more sympathetic to suits that narrowly attack vaccine mandates for not accommodating religious beliefs. Police unions across the country, from Chicago to Washington State, are urging members to resist Covid vaccine requirements  despite Covid being by far the most common cause of officer duty-related deaths this year and last, according to the Officer Down Memorial Page. The New York police unions lawsuit argues that the city did not give officers enough time to seek religious exemptions. Officers seeking exemptions are required to apply by Wednesday  one week after the mandate was announced  to avoid being placed on leave without pay. As of last week, about 70 percent of employees of the New York Police Department had received at least one shot of a coronavirus vaccine. The P.B.A., which represents rank-and-file officers, has been generally supportive of an earlier policy that had allowed unvaccinated officers to test weekly for the virus. The lawsuit claims that test-or-vax rule was effective in protecting public safety. The lawsuit was filed on a day when a large crowd of people  including many fire, police, and sanitation workers  marched in protest against the vaccine mandate. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall, some demonstrators carried large American flags and loudly chanted, We Will Not Comply.

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Modernas Covid vaccine produces a strong immune response in younger children, the company said. Image Jackson Sweeten, 8, received a shot of Modernas coronavirus vaccine as part of a pediatric trial in Salt Lake City in April. Credit... Velocity Clinical Research/Via Reuters The coronavirus vaccine made by Moderna is safe and produces a powerful immune response in children 6 through 11, the company said on Monday. One month after immunization was complete, the children in Modernas trial had antibody levels that were 1.5 times higher than those seen in young adults, the company said. Moderna did not release the full data, nor are the results published in a peer-reviewed journal. The results were announced one day before an advisory committee of the Food and Drug Administration is scheduled to review data for the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in children 5 through 11. Moderna tested two shots of the vaccine given 28 days apart in 4,753 children. They received 50 micrograms of vaccine, half the adult dose, in each shot. (Last week, based on data showing that the half dose is still highly effective, the F.D.A. authorized a booster shot of the Moderna vaccine at this dose.) Moderna submitted study results for the vaccines use for adolescents 12 through 17 in June, but the F.D.A. has not yet announced a decision for that age group. Some research indicates that the Moderna vaccine may increase the risk of a rare side effect called myocarditis, an inflammation of the heart muscle, in boys and young men. In July, the F.D.A. asked both Pfizer and Moderna to expand the size of their trials in order to detect less common side effects. In children aged 6 through 11, most of the side effects were mild or moderate; the most common were fatigue, headache, fever and pain at the injection site, Moderna said in its statement on Monday. An independent committee will continue to review the vaccines safety in the trial participants for 12 months after the second dose. Moderna is still recruiting children aged 2 through 5 and 6 months to under 2 years for trials of the vaccine in those age groups. The company has enrolled about 5,700 children in the United States and Canada in the trial. Moderna plans to submit the results soon to the F.D.A. and to regulatory agencies in Europe and elsewhere, the company said.

As Djokovic drama plays out, its unclear if unvaccinated players will be allowed to play at the Australian Open. Image Novak Djokovic of Serbia at the Australian Open mens singles final in Melbourne in February. Credit... Loren Elliott/Reuters With less than three months to go before the 2022 Australian Open, confusion remains as to whether unvaccinated players will be able to participate in the marquee event. Novak Djokovic, the reigning champion and a nine-time winner of the Australian Open, expressed uncertainty last week over whether he would attend the tournament if he were required to prove his vaccination status. His comments set off a flurry of speculation and contradictory remarks by government ministers and tennis officials. Things beings as they are, I still dont know if I will go to Melbourne, Mr. Djokovic, who is tied with Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal for the most mens Grand Slam singles titles in a career, told Blic Sport. I will not reveal my status whether I have been vaccinated or not, it is a private matter and an inappropriate inquiry. In June 2020, Mr. Djokovic tested positive for the coronavirus after hosting a tournament in Serbia and other Balkan nations, after which other players and coaches were also found to be infected. In response to Mr. Djokovics comments, Australias immigration minister, Alex Hawke, said last week that unvaccinated players will have to be double vaccinated to visit Australia. Thats a universal application, not just to tennis players, he told Australian Broadcasting Corporation radio on Wednesday. Confusion remains, however. While organizers of this years tournament are hoping all players can participate, they have not yet released any formal vaccination or quarantine guidelines for the athletes. And neither Australias federal government nor the government of Victoria, the state in which the tournament is held, have made a formal announcement about how or when international tennis players will be able to enter the country and what they can or cant do once theyre allowed in. When asked for clarification by The New York Times, the Australian federal government suggested via email that any rulings regarding the players participation in the tournament fell under the jurisdiction of the state government: Participants at the Australian Open may be subject to varying quarantine arrangements, depending on their vaccination status, or declared status in accordance with State and Territory requirements. Noncitizens are broadly barred from visiting Australia, but they can be granted entry if they agree to quarantine for two weeks, which is how players participated in the 2021 Australian Open in February. That tournament drew backlash from citizens for seeming to prioritize admitting international tennis players over the many Australians who were stranded overseas because of travel restrictions. In a leaked email, the Womens Tennis Association directly contradicted Mr. Hawkes comments, insisting that unvaccinated players would be able to attend the tournament if they quarantined for two weeks. Update on #AusOpen



Per email sent to WTA players just now, Tennis Australia has told WTA PC that fully vaccinated players wont be required to quarantine or bubble at all.



Unvaccinated players will be allowed to enter, TA tells WTA, but must do 14 days of hotel quarantine. pic.twitter.com/cu4NV8abYB  Ben Rothenberg (@BenRothenberg) October 24, 2021 But the Victorian government rebutted this claim on Monday afternoon, with the sports minister, Martin Pakula, telling 3AW radio that the matter would not be settled for another couple of weeks. Tennis Australia, the organizer of the tournament, said in a statement on Monday that it was working with the Victorian and Federal Governments on the conditions for players at Australian Open 2022 and look forward to having the details confirmed soon. We are optimistic that we can hold the Australian Open as close to pre-pandemic conditions as possible, the statement said.

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AstraZenecas vaccine comes with a slightly higher risk of a nerve syndrome but not worse than from Covid, a study finds. Image Receiving an AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine shot during vaccine trials late last year. Credit... Andrew Testa for The New York Times A study of more than 32 million Covid vaccine recipients in England published on Monday found that people given the AstraZeneca vaccine were at slightly increased risk of GuillainBarre syndrome, a rare but potentially serious neurological condition. Even so, the coronavirus vaccine posed a far smaller risk of the disorder than did Covid itself, the researchers said. The neurological complications of SARS-CoV-2 vaccines are much rarer than the neurological complications of Covid-19, said Dr. Peter Openshaw, a professor of experimental medicine at Imperial College London. For every 10 million people who received a first dose of the AstraZeneca shot, the study estimated, 38 additional people would be expected to develop Guillain-Barre syndrome. In comparison, for every 10 million people who contracted the coronavirus, 145 would be expected to develop Guillain-Barre. Concerns about the syndrome have already prompted regulatory action in Britain and the European Union. The European Medicines Agency said last month that it was at least a reasonable possibility that the AstraZeneca vaccine caused Guillain-Barre in very rare instances. And last week, Britains medicines regulator added it as a very rare side effect. Guillain-Barre is a condition in which the bodys immune system attacks nerve cells, potentially causing muscle weakness or paralysis. The symptoms often pass within weeks, but in some cases, the condition can cause permanent nerve damage. Researchers have reported that the Johnson & Johnson shot may also be associated with a small increased risk of Guillain-Barre. That shot and the AstraZeneca vaccine both rely on a virus known as an adenovirus. The study on Monday said that further studies were needed to assess whether antibodies against the vaccine can react with components of the peripheral nerves to cause Guillain-Barre. Several European countries have already limited the use of AstraZenecas vaccine because of an apparent link with other rare but serious clotting disorders. In the United States, the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has largely been sidelined amid concerns about the same clotting problems and the wide availability of alternative vaccines. The new study also found a small increased risk of hemorrhagic strokes  caused by the leaking or rupture of a blood vessel in the brain  after a first shot of the Pfizer vaccine, but scientists cautioned that any association was far from certain. The study said that there was no increased risk evident from a different set of Scottish vaccination data, and scientists noted that the diagnoses in England had not all been verified by stroke experts.

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South Korea loosens restrictions as it fully vaccinates 70 percent of its population. Image Shoppers wearing face masks at a market in Seoul this month. Credit... Jeon Heon-Kyun/EPA, via Shutterstock President Moon Jae-in of South Korea announced on Monday that the country had achieved its goal of fully vaccinating 70 percent of its population of about 52 million and would be implementing a phased recovery plan next month. While Seoul, the capital, has been under the strictest level of social-distancing regulations since the summer, limiting social gatherings to a maximum of two at one point and barring customers from sitting in cafes, regulations were eased starting last week. Last week, South Korea also added five countries to the list of those whose vaccinated tourists will be eligible for quarantine exemptions. Under the phased recovery plan that starts next Monday, restrictions will loosen further, including allowing gatherings of up to 10 people, lifting restrictions on business operating hours, allowing spectators at some sporting events and allowing the use of showers at fitness centers. The new regulations will be observed for a four-week period, followed by a two-week evaluation term. While South Koreas vaccination program had a slow start compared to those in the United States and several countries in Europe and Asia, it quickly picked up its distribution to surpass the United States. The country was a week early in reaching its immunization quota on Saturday. On Monday, South Koreas government also said it would donate one million AstraZeneca Covid shots to Iran, in recognition of the 60-year friendship between the two countries. Earlier this month, South Korea donated over a million doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine to Vietnam and Thailand. On Monday, South Korea reported 1,190 daily new cases. According to a database by Our World in Data, the country has seen a 35 percent decrease in cases over the past two weeks. The country has faced four waves of the pandemic since February, with its latest spike starting in July and still ongoing, the worst in terms of case count. The government also announced a $519 billion budget for 2022 to help recover the pandemic-induced economic fallout. The proposed budget for next year is 8.3 percent higher than this years. We will do our best to recover both financially and in our daily lives, Mr. Moon said at the National Assembly. Tracking Coronavirus Vaccinations Around the World More than 4.14 billion people worldwide have received a Covid-19 vaccine, equal to about 53.9 percent of the world population.

Covid vaccinations for children 5 and up could begin next month, Dr. Fauci says. Image Marisol Gerardo, 9, gets a second dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine during a clinical trial at Duke Health in Durham, N.C., in April. Credit... Shawn Rocco/Duke Health/Via Reuters Covid-19 vaccines could be approved and available for younger American children soon, but the question of how quickly parents will allow them to get inoculated is another matter. Children ages 5 to 11 could begin getting vaccinated in early November, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nations top infectious disease official, said Sunday. That means those children could be fully immunized by the holidays, if an advisory panel to the Food and Drug Administration endorses Pfizers application for vaccine use in that age group on Tuesday. Children 12 and up have been eligible for vaccination since May. But hesitancy among parents of these children could be a hurdle. Only about one in three parents of 5- to 11-year-olds planned to get their children inoculated right away once a vaccine is authorized, according to polling by the Kaiser Family Foundation conducted last month. Another third said they wanted to wait and see how the vaccine affected children. But that same polling showed that reluctance among parents of teenagers had dropped in the months since vaccines became available to that age group. This is critically important, and we know we have a lot of work to do, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said on the NBC program Meet the Press. Those survey data look very much consistent with where we were with adults last December, when we rolled out vaccines for adults. We have done a huge amount of hard work over the last 10 months, education, communication, providing information, getting vaccines to really convenient places and trusted messengers. F.D.A. regulators on Friday released their evaluation of data from the Pfizer-BioNTech submission for emergency authorization of a lower-dose vaccine for young children. Pfizers data look good as to the efficacy and safety, Dr. Fauci said on the ABC program This Week. He said if all goes well, it is entirely possible, if not very likely, that vaccines will be available for children from 5 to 11 within the first week or two of November. According to Pfizer and BioNTech, the children who were vaccinated as part of the clinical trial, who received doses that were one-third the size of the adult doses, developed robust immune responses after receiving the regimen of two shots three weeks apart. The companies have said the efficacy rate of the vaccine in children reduced the risk of developing a symptomatic infection by 91 percent. The most common side effects in children were fatigue, headache, muscle pain and chills. According to the F.D.A., the data submitted indicated no cases of myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle, or pericarditis, inflammation of the outer lining of the heart, both of which are rare complications that have been reported among young boys and men receiving the vaccine. Over the past week there has been a lot of regulatory guidance on who can receive booster doses of Covid vaccines, giving a large segment of the U.S. population access to more protection. Both Dr. Walensky and Dr. Fauci sought to dispel confusion about booster shots and explain the option of mixing and matching initial vaccines and boosters. Boosters of all three vaccines available in the United States have been authorized. Additional shots of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines, which use mRNA technology, have been approved for people 65 and older, those with underlying health conditions and all adults whose living or working conditions place them at high risk of exposure to the virus. Anyone over 18 who received the single-dose Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least two months ago is also eligible for a booster. People can receive a booster shot that is different from the initial vaccine they first received, the health authorities said. If you were originally vaccinated with one product, could you and would it be appropriate and safe and effective to get boosted in the third shot for the mRNA and the second shot for J.&.J. by another product? Dr. Fauci said. The answer is, its perfectly fine. See How Vaccinations Are Going in Your County and State See where doses have gone, and who is eligible for a shot in each state.

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Covid may overwhelm the health care system in Papua New Guinea, the Red Cross warns. Image A temporary Covid hospital in Port Moresby, Papua New Guineas capital, this month. Credit... Andrew Kutan/Agence France-Presse  Getty Images Papua New Guinea is facing its highest daily number of new Covid-19 cases since the pandemic began, and the surge threatens to overwhelm the countrys rudimentary health system, the Red Cross said on Monday. Data from global health organizations suggest that the crisis may be far deeper than the story told by official figures. Since March 2020, the country has reported 27,627 confirmed cases of the coronavirus and 335 deaths. Figures from the World Health Organization indicate that the true number of infections may be more than twice that, according to an Agence France-Presse report. At least 2.6 million people, or more than a quarter of the population of nine million, have visited clinics with symptoms consistent with flu or pneumonia since the pandemic began. Papua New Guineas health services are poorly equipped to deal with a major outbreak. The country has only 500 doctors and fewer than 4,000 nurses, according to Human Rights Watch. With most of the population living outside of urban centers, access to health care is limited. Hospitals are full, and patients are being turned away in Port Moresby and provincial areas, said Uvenama Rova, the top Red Cross official in Papua New Guinea, in a statement. We are deeply concerned that the risks of hospitalization and death from Covid-19 are skyrocketing due to limited health infrastructure, high rates of illness, all compounded by poor access to safe water, hygiene and sanitation facilities. As of Sunday, just 207,207 people in the country had been vaccinated, because of problems with the rollout and a lack of supplies. Intense misinformation and vaccine hesitancy have affected even the countrys health staff: One survey of 130 people working in an emergency department in Port Moresby, the capital, showed 24 percent would refuse a vaccine and 37 percent were unsure, according to A.F.P.

Some federal advisers have misgivings over whether boosters are widely needed. Image An assistant prepares doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 in Nevada. Credit... John Locher/Associated Press After a series of endorsements over the last month by scientific panels advising federal agencies, tens of millions of Americans are now eligible for booster shots of coronavirus vaccines. But the recommendations  even those approved unanimously  mask significant dissent and disquiet among those advisers about the need for booster shots in the United States. In interviews last week, several advisers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and to the Food and Drug Administration said data show that, with the exception of adults over age 65, the vast majority of Americans are already well protected against severe illness and do not need booster shots. All the advisers felt that they were obligated to make difficult choices, based on sparse research, in the middle of a public health emergency. But some said they felt compelled to vote for the shots because of the way the federal agencies framed the questions that they were asked to consider. Other committee experts said that they wanted to avoid confusing the public further by dissenting, or that they voted according to their views of the evidence and were simply overruled. After a series of votes, the official position of the F.D.A. and C.D.C. now is that older adults, people with certain medical conditions and those whose jobs or living situations regularly expose them to the virus can opt for a booster dose of any of the three vaccines. The C.D.C. also advised last week that people in certain high-risk groups who got one type of vaccine could choose a different one for their booster. In interviews, the experts bemoaned the limited data on the safety and efficacy of the booster shots. Still, some said they felt they had to vote in favor of booster shots of the Moderna and Johnson & Johnson vaccines because they had already recommended boosters of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine and did not want to deny other Americans.

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Now that the F.D.A. panel has recommended pediatric Covid shots, heres what happens next. Image Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, will issue the agencys guidance, which is powerfully influential for states and the general public. Credit... Pool photo by Jim Lo Scalzo An independent committee of experts advising the Food and Drug Administration met on Tuesday and voted to recommend authorizing the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine for children 5 to 11 years old, opening the way to inoculating 28 million children in the United States. An evaluation of data released by regulators on Friday from a clinical trial showed that Pfizers vaccine was very effective at preventing symptomatic Covid-19 in children in that age range, and that the vaccines benefits outweighed the risk of rare side effects. More needs to happen at the F.D.A. and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention before children 5 to 11 will be able to receive the vaccine. But if both federal agencies rule in favor, the children could become eligible for shots in the first week of November. Heres what comes next. At the F.D.A. The F.D.A. considers its advisory panels recommendation. The panels votes are not binding, but the F.D.A. typically follows them.

Then the F.D.A. itself issues a decision, usually within a few days of the advisory committees meeting. At the C.D.C. An advisory panel to the C.D.C., the United States public health agency, reviews the F.D.A.s decision and makes recommendations. That panel is scheduled to meet to consider the issue next week.

The C.D.C. considers its panels recommendations, which are not binding, though the agency usually follows them. There was a rare exception in September, when Dr. Rochelle P. Walensky, the director of the C.D.C., endorsed Pfizer-BioNTech booster shots for frontline workers even though the C.D.C.s panel had not recommended the step. That move by Dr. Walensky aligned the C.D.C.s guidance with the F.D.A.s authorization.

Dr. Walensky issues the agencys guidance, which is powerfully influential for states, the general public and health care institutions and professionals. In the states State health departments generally follow the recommendations of the C.D.C.

Federal officials have said that if pediatric doses of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine are authorized, 15 million doses of vaccine will immediately be shipped to the states for distribution. Correction : Oct. 27, 2021 Because of an editing error, an earlier version of this item misidentified the Food and Drug Administration official who issues the final decision on vaccine authorization. It is the acting chief scientist, not the acting commissioner.

An F.D.A. panel recommends the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for young children. Video transcript Back bars 0:00 / 0:33 - 0:00 transcript F.D.A. Panel Endorses Pfizer-BioNTech Shots for Young Children A Food and Drug Administration advisory committee voted to recommend a pediatric dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11. Based on the totality of scientific evidence available, do the benefits of the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine when administered as a two-dose series, 10 micrograms each dose three weeks apart, outweigh its risks for use in children 5 to 11 years of age? This concludes the vote: Out of 18 voting members, 17 voted yes and we had one abstain. A Food and Drug Administration advisory committee voted to recommend a pediatric dose of the Pfizer-BioNTech coronavirus vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11. Credit Credit... LM Otero/Associated Press An expert committee advising the Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday recommended that regulators authorize Pfizer-BioNTechs coronavirus vaccine for 5- to 11-year-olds, bringing about 28 million children a major step closer to becoming eligible for shots. If the F.D.A. follows the panels advice in the coming days, as is expected, the Biden administration will have expanded vaccine access to all but the youngest Americans, while providing booster shots for many as well. Biden administration officials see the pediatric dose as crucial to keeping schools open and restoring a sense of normalcy to family and work life as the pandemic hurtles toward the end of its second year. The administration wants to be seen as doing everything possible to combat the virus and build upon positive trends, as the Delta variant ebbs and the daily drumbeat of infections and deaths fades. Younger children would start getting their shots at a time when coronavirus cases are dropping sharply. But public demand for a pediatric vaccine has been high, and some panel members said that even though young children are less likely to get severely ill from Covid-19, parents and doctors alike are anxious to protect them. Dr. Jay Portnoy, a medical director at Childrens Mercy Hospital in Kansas City, Mo., said he had seen critically ill children in the intensive care unit and terrified parents. Im looking forward to being able to actually do something to prevent that, he said. The vote was 17-0 in favor, with one abstention. Federal regulators and scientists made a strong push, arguing that 8,300 children between 5 and 11 had been hospitalized with Covid-19 and nearly 100 had died over the course of the pandemic. Covid-19 is the eighth-highest killer of kids in this age group over the past year, said Dr. Amanda Cohn, a top C.D.C. vaccine official. Use of this vaccine will prevent deaths, will prevent I.C.U. admissions and will prevent significant long-term adverse outcomes in children. Data from Pfizer showed that the vaccine had a 90.7 percent efficacy rate in preventing symptomatic Covid-19 in a clinical trial of 5- to 11-year-olds. Still, many advisory committee members expressed concern about limited safety data, turning repeatedly to the risk of myocarditis, a rare condition involving inflammation of the heart muscle, in young vaccine recipients. Myocarditis and pericarditis, inflammation of the lining around the heart, have been tied to the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines, particularly in younger men. The Pfizer dose for younger children would be one-third of the strength given to people 12 and older, with two shots given three weeks apart. Experts have said that could diminish the risk of the heart-related side effects. If F.D.A. regulators follow the committees advice, as they typically do, an authorization could come within days. The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions own panel of outside experts is scheduled to meet Tuesday and Wednesday, and is also expected to endorse a pediatric dose. The C.D.C., which sets vaccine policy, would likely then quickly recommend the rollout of shots. During a long debate before the vote, some committee members questioned whether every child in the age group really needed the vaccine or whether it should be limited to those at high risk of severe Covid-19  an easily identifiable group, with underlying conditions such as obesity or other risk factors. Dr. James E.K. Hildreth, the president and chief executive of Meharry Medical College, said that since many children between 5 and 11 may already have some immunity after contracting the virus, the need to vaccinate broadly in the age group might be less urgent. It just seems to me that in some ways were vaccinating children to protect the adults, and it should be the other way around, he said. I do believe that children at highest risk do need to be vaccinated. But vaccinating all of the children to achieve that just seems a bit much for me.
Law enforcement agencies on three continents have disrupted a global drug trafficking operation on the dark web, resulting in the arrests of more than 150 people and the seizure of $31.6 million in cash and virtual currencies and substantial quantities of opioids and other drugs, the Justice Department said on Tuesday.

The results of the sting, called Operation Dark HunTor, followed the takedown in January of DarkMarket, at the time the worlds largest online marketplace for illicit goods, located in an encrypted and relatively hidden corner of the internet.

When German authorities arrested DarkMarkets alleged operator and seized the sites infrastructure, they recovered a trove of evidence that they subsequently provided to dozens of law enforcement teams across the world for follow-up investigations.

Over the last 10 months, the F.B.I. and other international law enforcement agencies used the information from DarkMarket to identify drug vendors and buyers who had sold drugs, weapons and other illicit services across Australia, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Britain and the United States.
President Biden on Tuesday nominated Jessica Rosenworcel, the acting chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission, to the permanent job, putting her on track to become the first woman to lead the agency.

If she is confirmed by the Senate, Ms. Rosenworcel would lead an agency whose responsibilities include ensuring that millions of Americans have internet access. The F.C.C. promotes competition among providers, scrutinizes mergers between telecommunications and broadcast companies, and regulates communications by radio, television, wire, satellite and cable.

Mr. Biden also named Gigi B. Sohn to the seat on the five-member commission vacated by Ms. Rosenworcel when she became the acting chairwoman. Ms. Sohn, a distinguished fellow at the Georgetown Law Institute for Technology Law & Policy, served from 2013 to 2016 as counselor to Tom Wheeler, a former F.C.C. chairman. If confirmed by the Senate, Ms. Sohn would be the F.C.C.s first openly L.G.B.T.Q. commissioner, the White House said in its announcement.

The nominations reflect the Biden administrations commitment to restoring net neutrality rules, which promote competition in part by barring internet providers from blocking certain content, slowing its delivery or letting clients pay more to have it delivered faster. The F.C.C. adopted the rules during the Obama administration but rolled them back under the Trump administration.
In recent days, Mr. Manchin has publicly objected to major components of the bill, including expansions of Medicare and Medicaid, a federal paid leave program, two major climate provisions, and a proposal to empower the Internal Revenue Service to obtain data for customers bank accounts as part of an effort to crack down on unpaid taxes and raise revenue to pay for the package.

Mr. Manchin, whose demand that the overall package not exceed $1.5 trillion has driven a frenzied effort to cut down the cost, has maintained that he is keeping an open mind out of fairness to Mr. Biden and Democratic leaders.

His maneuvering has prompted rumors that he might soon leave the Democratic Party, but he describes it as part of his political identity, no matter his affiliation.

Do you think by having a D or an I or an R is going to change who I am? Mr. Manchin said on Tuesday during an event hosted by the Economic Club of Washington. I dont think the Rs would be any more happier with me than Ds are right now.

I dont know where in the hell I belong, he concluded, drawing laughter from the audience.

These days, he can usually be found huddled with other Democrats who are seeking his support  or to change his mind  on a component of the social policy bill. On Monday evening, it was Senator Chuck Schumer of New York, the majority leader, along with Senators Thomas R. Carper of Delaware, Maria Cantwell of Washington and Ron Wyden of Oregon, all seeking to preserve a fee on methane emissions to which Mr. Manchin had objected.
Advisers to Mr. McAuliffe note that his contest with Mr. Youngkin tightened at the end of the summer, just as Mr. Bidens approval rating began to fall, as the presidents promise of a return to normalcy faltered in the face of the Delta variant, chaos on the southern border and the tumultuous withdrawal from Afghanistan.

But they see hopeful signs in the fact that Mr. McAuliffes support remains higher than Mr. Bidens approval rating, which hovers in the low to mid-40s  lower than that of any president other than Mr. Trump at this early stage.

Mr. Bidens declining approval ratings among core Democratic constituencies, including young, Latino and Black voters, could inhibit turnout efforts for Mr. McAuliffe, complicating his path to victory in a race that could hinge on which candidate best mobilizes his base.

Swing voters in the suburbs have gotten over their early excitement about replacing Mr. Trump, said Christine Matthews, a Republican pollster who has run focus groups about the Virginia contest. While Mr. Bidens victory at first inspired ginormous relief, she said, Now, theres a realization like, Oh, yeah, Bidens not perfect, and things arent feeling enormously better.

Neither Mr. McAuliffe nor Mr. Youngkin has mentioned Mr. Biden in his ads, according to AdImpact, which tracks campaign commercials, underscoring how little he motivates voters in either party  a striking change after many years in which sitting presidents routinely played starring roles in advertisements by candidates in both parties.

In the closing weeks of the race, Mr. McAuliffe, who served a term as governor from 2014 to 2018 but was barred from a second consecutive term by Virginia law, has tried to put some daylight between his campaign and Mr. Bidens administration. Though he never directly criticizes the president, Mr. McAuliffe has repeatedly highlighted the political risk posed by congressional inaction on the presidents legislative agenda. In private conversations with House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and the White House, allies of Mr. McAuliffe say he has argued that the souring national environment is hurting his chances.

We are facing a lot of headwinds from Washington, Mr. McAuliffe, a former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, said during a virtual call with supporters this month. The president is unpopular today, unfortunately, here in Virginia, so we have got to plow through.
Eleven days after a Texas man fatally shot a person in his driveway and told a 911 dispatcher I just killed a guy, the police arrested him in the killing, according to the authorities and an arrest affidavit.

On Friday, the Caldwell County Sheriffs Office said that it had obtained an arrest warrant on Oct. 21 for the Texas man, Terry Turner, 65, in the killing of Adil Dghoughi, 31. Mr. Turner was taken into custody on Friday after turning himself in, and released on bond, records show.

A grand jury is deciding whether to charge Mr. Turner, Larry D. Bloomquist, his lawyer, said in a telephone interview on Tuesday. We do believe that this was self-defense, in defense of his property, Mr. Bloomquist said. And at this point, it is a tragic event for everybody.

We are not going to try the case in the press, he added.

But the family, friends and supporters of Mr. Dghoughi are still seeking answers about why it took 11 days for the police to arrest Mr. Turner, who told a 911 dispatcher he had shot a man sitting in a car in his driveway, according to the affidavit. The shooting, which unfolded in Martindale, a city about 30 miles south of Austin, has also focused attention on the states self-defense laws, which give residents the right to use force to protect property or themselves.
Children ages 5 to 11 may be eligible for the Pfizer-BioNTech Covid vaccine by early next month: two shots spaced three weeks apart. But unlike kids 12 and older, who get the same dosage as adults, the kids in the younger age group will receive 10 micrograms of vaccine per dose, or one-third the amount that a 12-year-old would get.

This has created some confusion for parents of 11-year-olds on the cusp of turning 12. Is it best to hold out for the larger dose? Or is it better to get the smaller dose right away? Does the weight or height of the child make any difference?

Five experts in immunology and infectious diseases agreed: The appropriate dosage is best determined by a childs age  not their size. So if your 11-year-old is able to get the shot starting in November, do it right away rather than waiting for your child to turn 12.

The virus isnt going away anytime soon, they said. And different variants could potentially make the virus more infectious or dangerous, said Donna L. Farber, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons.
A day after he seized power in Sudan, the countrys top general said on Tuesday that he had detained the civilian prime minister in his own home, and defended the coup as necessary for stability  even as large crowds of protesters flooded the streets of the capital and other major cities to resist the military takeover.

He is in my own residence, Lt. Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who led the coup, said in a news conference in the capital, Khartoum. We had feared for his life. Thats why we took him to safe custody, he added.

The militarys capture of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other civilian government ministers on Monday derailed a transition to civilian rule and plunged Sudan back into fear and uncertainty after a two-year period of tenuous hope.

Late Tuesday evening, two government officials who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the matter said that the prime minister had been allowed to return to his own home, though he remained under house arrest.
PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti  Two officers with Haitis rapid-reaction force pulled up to a bridge in the capital, Port-au-Prince, to set up a checkpoint and do an afternoons worth of work searching for guns, drugs, wanted criminals and kidnapping victims.

On each side of the bridge were neighborhoods under siege by gangs. In one of them, Haitian officials believe a powerful gang, 400 Mawozo, is holding a group of American and Canadian missionaries hostage for ransom. But the officers couldnt venture into the nearby streets: the criminal organizations surrounding them have better guns, better motorcycles, and more fuel.

So the officers kept to the bridge, frustrated at the power imbalance that leaves them helpless and much of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and the nation under the control of criminal organizations like 400 Mawozo.

We took this job knowing the risks, said Edvie Boursiquot, 41, an officer with the rapid-reaction force who joined the police 14 years ago. But we need to go to work knowing that we have a government that supports us, that it is looking out for us. That we are given what we need to fight the gangs, better arms, better motorcycles.
The Chinese government ordered the northwestern city of Lanzhou locked down on Tuesday as officials carried out widespread testing to quash a small Covid-19 outbreak.

Lanzhou, a city of about four million people, reported six new coronavirus cases on Tuesday, and a total of 39 over the past week. China, where the coronavirus first emerged in late 2019, has been battling a recent flare-up of new cases largely in the northwest of the country that were spread by domestic travel.

The country enforces a strict zero Covid policy, carrying out widespread lockdowns and testing to eliminate even small-scale outbreaks.

By Monday evening, medical workers had tested nearly 12 million people in Gansu Province, including more than 2.8 million in Lanzhou, its capital. The testing in Lanzhou continued on Tuesday.
More than eight months after she was detained by the military in a coup, Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of Myanmars ousted civilian government, and her lawyers mounted her defense for the first time on Tuesday in a closed-door hearing.

Ms. Aung San Suu Kyi, 76, appeared in a courtroom specially built for her in Naypyidaw, the capital of Myanmar, where the prosecution has spent the last several months presenting its case on charges of inciting public unrest, illegally importing walkie-talkies and breaching coronavirus regulations.

No journalists, diplomats or members of the public have been allowed in court. Ms. Aung San Suu Kyis testimony was not made public and the junta has barred all five of her lawyers from speaking to the media, saying their communications could destabilize the country. If convicted of all 11 charges against her, she could be sentenced to a maximum of 102 years in prison.

The hearing on Tuesday came as President Biden prepared to attend a virtual summit with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this week, the first time in four years that a U.S. president will participate in the annual meeting. Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, the head of Myanmars junta, was excluded from the meeting, where discussions are expected to focus on the crisis in Myanmar.
In 1987, Mr. Chun handpicked Mr. Roh as the presidential candidate of his ruling party. That effectively made him the next president  the country chose its president by an electoral college filled with pro-government delegates  until citizens rose up in Seoul and other cities to stage huge protests demanding an end to military rule.

To head off rioting, Mr. Chun and Mr. Roh acceded to demands for political reforms, including holding a popular election. Mr. Roh won that contest easily when the opposition vote was split between two dissident candidates, Kim Young-sam and Kim Dae-jung, who despised each other as much as they disliked military rule. Mr. Rohs victory made him the countrys first directly elected president in 16 years.

Mr. Roh presided over the opening ceremony of the Olympics, a coming-out party for a nation proud of having built a roaring economy from the ashes of the Korean War. The 1988 Games were a great success despite a North Korean attempt to sabotage them with the bombing of a South Korean passenger jet in 1987, and despite demonstrations by students chanting Down with dictatorship! and hurling kerosene bombs.

Emboldened, Mr. Roh pushed his policy of Nordpolitik, opening diplomatic relations with countries like the Soviet Union and China  an effort that helped thaw relations on the divided Korean Peninsula.

The two Koreas joined the United Nations simultaneously in 1991. They also signed an agreement to keep the peninsula free of nuclear weapons  an accord North Korea has flouted with six nuclear tests since 2006.

Mr. Roh was a marked contrast with the hard-line ex-generals who had led the country before him, Mr. Park and Mr. Chun. Portraits of a smiling Mr. Roh went up on the walls of government offices. He allowed comedians to make fun of politicians, including Mr. Chun, his now disgraced friend, who was forced into exile in a Buddhist monastery as calls mounted to punish him and his relatives for corruption.
OTTAWA  Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled his new cabinet on Tuesday, in a muted inauguration during which the Canadian leader laid out a sweeping agenda meant to reinvigorate support for his Liberal Party after an underwhelming and unpopular early election in September.

The swearing-in ceremony, dampened by pandemic restrictions and a chilly autumnal rain, was the first major event since the new government was formed by an election held last month that denied Mr. Trudeau the voting majority he had sought in the House of Commons.

The inauguration also came in the aftermath of a misstep by Mr. Trudeau that prompted him to apologize to Indigenous people for having skipped a new holiday recognizing Canadas history of injustices toward them. The lapse eroded the confidence of some Canadians in his personal judgment.

If Mr. Trudeau felt chastened by Canadians rejection of his bid for parliamentary control, he gave no sign of it in his address on Tuesday. After showing off his new cabinet, he announced renewed commitments to cutting greenhouse gas emissions and advancing reconciliation with Indigenous people, as well as spurring affordable housing and economic growth.
ATHENS  Three children and a woman drowned on Tuesday in the Aegean Sea after the bottom fell out of an overcrowded dinghy carrying migrants from neighboring Turkey, dropping passengers into the water, Greek officials said.

The bodies of three girls and a young woman were recovered off the Greek island of Chios, while another 22 people were rescued, the Greek Coast Guard said in a statement on Tuesday afternoon, adding that one person was still missing. None had life vests, the authorities said.

Greece is a key route for migrants and asylum seekers trying to reach Europe. But arrivals have dropped sharply in recent years, as have deaths at sea. Tuesdays incident was unusual in that the boat fell apart because of overcrowding, rather than capsizing as is more often the case.

Greeces Coast Guard began a search-and-rescue operation early Tuesday. Coast Guard vessels, a NATO warship, private boats in the area and helicopters scoured the area.
PARIS  Two men went on trial in Paris on Tuesday, accused of killing an 85-year-old grandmother who survived the Holocaust in a crime that shook Frances Jewish community to its core.

The defendants  Yacine Mihoub, 32, and Alex Carrimbacus, 25  have been charged with killing Mireille Knoll, in what the authorities and prosecutors have called a hate crime. Ms. Knolls partly burned body was found in her Paris apartment in March 2018 after she had been stabbed 11 times and attackers had set fire to her home.

It is unclear whether the trial will succeed in establishing true responsibility for the crime, as each defendant has blamed the other for Ms. Knolls death. But it is expected to focus on whether the murder was motivated by antisemitism as it was characterized by prosecutors.

The trial, which will last until mid-November, also comes as a Jewish far-right pundit, Eric Zemmour, has turned Frances political landscape upside down with provocations on identity issues. He has especially split the Jewish community by trying to clear France of wrongdoing in some of the worst antisemitic episodes in its past.
KOBYLIN-BORZYMY, Poland  The twin steeples of Saint Stanislaus, a hulking, red-brick Catholic church, are visible for miles across the corn fields and cow pastures of this conservative area of eastern Poland, a bastion of support for the countrys nationalist governing party.

That party is conservative and Catholic, and people here are very attached to national traditions and the church, said Dariusz Sikorski, the elected chief of a county that gave more than 90 percent of its vote to the partys victorious candidate in a presidential election last year.

They are also deeply attached, however, to cash from the European Union. Taxpayers in the 27-nation bloc provided nearly $150 million to build a nearby highway and millions more to help pay for a childrens playground, water pumping stations, a sewage system, clean-energy projects and improvements to the local school.

With Poland now locked in a tumultuous struggle with Europe over the rule of law that has raised the possibility, albeit very small, of the country being forced to leave the bloc, the government in Warsaw is wrestling with tension between nationalist instincts suffused with religious faith and the reality of economic and political self-interest.
Advised by doctors to rest, Queen Elizabeth II, at age 95 the oldest and longest-serving monarch in British history, will not attend the global climate summit to be held in Glasgow, Scotland, starting next week, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday.

The queen had been scheduled to attend a reception on Monday with world leaders, including President Biden and Prime Minister Boris Johnson, at the 26th United Nations Climate Change Conference, known as COP26.

Her Majesty is disappointed not to attend the reception but will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded video message, the palace said in a statement.

Elizabeth skipped ceremonies last week in Belfast marking the centennial of the creation of Northern Ireland, after the palace said she was accepting her doctors advice to rest for a few days.
CAIRO  A cyberattack disrupted gasoline stations across Iran on Tuesday, several state-run Iranian news agencies reported, leaving the authorities and fuel distributors scrambling to restore service.

The attack, which led to long lines outside gas stations for much of the day, came shortly before the anniversary of the November 2019 antigovernment protests that erupted over fuel price increases.

The Iranian authorities, who have been embarrassed repeatedly in the past by cyberattacks that they blamed on the United States and Israel, said they were investigating the episode, state media reported.

Abolhassan Firoozabadi, secretary of Irans Supreme Council of Cyberspace, told state television on Tuesday evening that the attack was most likely carried out by a foreign country, though he did not name one.
The Taliban takeover has also sent a new wave of refugees into Iran, adding to the more than two million Afghans who fled to Iran during previous times of upheaval. Their arrival has stretched Irans resources at a time when the countrys economy has been battered by the coronavirus pandemic and international financial sanctions.

But any Iranian response to the new situation in Afghanistan has potential costs.

Recognizing the Taliban could set off a backlash at home among Iranians who see the Taliban as a terrorist group and tarnish Irans branding of itself as a protector of Shiites in the Muslim world.

Rejecting the Taliban, on the other hand, could undo the gains of Irans careful courtship of the group over the years, and quickly turn a tenuous relationship hostile. Iranian officials fear getting dragged into a protracted conflict it neither wants nor could afford.

For now, Iranian officials say they are taking a middle-of-the-road approach.

Officials have acknowledged the Taliban are a reality but stopped short of recognizing them as Afghanistans legitimate government. They have also expressed concern about the safety of resistance leaders such as Ahmad Massoud, who leads an anti-Taliban militia with historical ties to Iran in the Panjshir Valley in Afghanistan, although they have not publicly endorsed his cause, and diplomats and analysts said they had seen no sign that Iran was supporting it financially or militarily.

We are in contact with all sides and advise them all to implement the idea of an inclusive government, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdullahian said in an interview. Afghanistan is facing many different challenges. The existence of ISIS in Afghanistan that has the experience of guerrilla warfare in Syria is a real threat.
The biggest issue with flash floods, Dr. Markenson said, is that people dont always evacuate when theyre told to do so. But by trying to ride it out, he warned, youll endanger yourself and rescuers.

Avoid floodwaters when possible. The best thing to do is avoid all floodwaters if you can  or, as the National Weather Services grim catchphrase urges: Turn Around Dont Drown. It takes just six inches of fast-moving water to knock you off your feet, so unless youre ordered to evacuate, staying where you are is usually the safest choice. (Flash floods generally pass quickly.)

The most immediate risk of entering floodwaters is drowning, but you may also expose yourself to various harmful things floating around the water itself, like human, animal and industrial waste; physical objects like cars, lumber and other debris; stray animals like rodents and snakes; and downed power lines.

If youre caught in your car

Sometimes flash flooding happens when youre out and about, and you may suddenly find yourself in a life-threatening situation. Nearly half of all flash flood deaths are vehicle-related, which is why you should never ignore barriers or attempt to power through flooded areas. Dont drive into a flooded street, period, Ms. Munger said. There really is no better advice.

Not only is it difficult to gauge water depth and road conditions, but just 12 inches of water can float your car and 18 inches can carry off your SUV or pickup truck. Everybody tends to underestimate the force of the water, Ms. Munger said. It takes very little current to wreak havoc.

That said, if your car does get taken by floodwaters, first, roll down your windows, said Lynn Burttschell, an emergency medical worker, rescue swimmer and founder of Wimberley Rescue Training. If they wont budge, he recommended breaking the glass with an escape tool (like the one in this Wirecutter guide, which you can store in your glove compartment) or using the metal pole of your headrest as a ram. Opening the windows is important, Mr. Burttschell said, because if the water continues to rise, then that car fills up and becomes more of a rock instead of a bobber floating downstream.

Then, unbuckle your seatbelt and grip it as you climb onto the roof and call 911, Mr. Burttschell advised. Do your best to remain with the car until help arrives. Lie down on the roof to keep yourself stable, and dont tie yourself to the car, in case it rolls.
A 30-year-old man from Guidonia, a town on the outskirts of Rome, found living at home with his wife so intolerable that he begged police to put him in prison.

Staff on duty at the Tenenza Carabinieri barracks in Guidonia thought they were the target of a prank on October 23, when a man casually walked in and confessed to breaking house arrest on purpose, so he could be thrown in jail. The unnamed Albanian man had apparently been fighting with his wife and decided that rather than living in the same house as her, hed be better off behind bars.

Photo: Afif Kusuma/Unsplash

He lived at home with his wife and family. It wasnt going well anymore, Captain Francesco Giacomo Ferrante of the Tivoli Carabinieri told AFP. He said, Listen, my domestic life has become hell, I cant do it anymore, I want to go to jail.'

The Albanian national had spent several months under house arrest for drug crimes, and still had several years left on his sentence, and the thought of spending all that time at home with his wife was apparently unfathomable.

Arrest me, I cant stand being at home with my wife anymore, I prefer prison, the 30-year-old reportedly told police, who were more than happy to oblige. The carabinieri informed the judicial authority and the man was transferred to prison for breaking the terms of his house arrest.

Photo: Ichigo121212/Pixabay

Believe it or not, this wasnt the first time that a man literally chose prison over spending a minute longer at home with their spouse. In 2016, we wrote about another man who allegedly tried to rob a Kansas City bank, because prison beat living with his nagging wife.
Rachel Bowen

Ira Glass, host and producer of the series This American Life, once said: Great stories happen to those who can tell them. This a reality that the National Society of Genetic Counselors enjoys thanks to its extraordinarily engaged membership and the stories its members are telling about their growing profession.

Utilizing top-to-bottom support from its members, NSGC has become a constantly sought-after expert source for national media and has seen continued success in tackling its priority issues. Although, this was not always the case for the association.

In 2010, NSGC turned to our agency, Public Communications Inc., to support its efforts in advancing the genetic counseling profession. At that time, the Society had low consumer awareness, no social media presence and great potential to position itself as a leading voice in the personalized healthcare conversation.

This article is featured in O'Dwyer's Oct. '21 Healthcare & Medical PR Magazine

(view PDF version)

Among the most important goals for NSGC over the years have been to educate the public about genetic counseling to generate further diversity in its workforce, make consumers familiar with genetic counseling services and build a stronger awareness among political decision-makers to bolster advocacy efforts. Through robust integrated communications strategies and storytelling, our teams have worked side-by-side for more than a decade to address these areas.

Today in the U.S., the genetic counseling profession comprises more than 5,000 masters-level professionals, a total that has more than doubled since 2010. That numberalong with salaries, diversity and autonomyis expected to continue a similar consistent growth in the next 10 years as additional training programs become accredited and awareness of the profession rises.

This is not only thanks to the thriving genetics industry, but also to the increased clarity that PCI has provided for consumers on the important role that genetic counselors play in our healthcare today.

When working with healthcare associations, the utilization of their members has continued to be one of PCIs most powerful tools for successfully attracting and being prepared for media attention, and amplifying awareness and online presence. While all association clients are different, there are common strategies applied by PCI that have proven fruitful time and time again.

Fostering media-expert relationships

PCIs healthcare sector constantly monitors news outlets and social media to stay on top of the of the latest healthcare trends and news. This allows us to identify opportunities for our clients to be thought leaders and join timely conversations by adding their unique perspectives. When these opportunities come about, PCI works closely with clients to follow up with reporters and offer experts within the organization to weigh in.

NSGC and its members have become key go-to sources for reporters when theyre writing or in search of content about genetic counseling, genetics and related topics. PCI has helped establish this status through years of building media relationships by coordinating inbound requests, frequently pitching story ideas and maintaining daily contact with key journalists and influencers.

NSGC is always well-equipped to handle media opportunities due to its reputable Expert Media Panel, a group of genetic counselors who each play a special role with their unique expertise in the field. PCI has worked with NSGC to enlist these members and continuously prepare them to be effective voices for the Society through media training sessions so they can convey the organizations most important messages during any given interview. Were proud to hear from media contacts how impressed they are with NSGCs experts and that theyre eager to work with them again.

Social media authenticity

Building an effective social media presence for professional associations requires a full understanding of its membership and key consumer audiences. PCI helps generate successful content for these organizations through continuously engaging with current and potential members, building awareness of the associations brand and generating website traffic. As important as knowing who the content will speak to is the quality and tone of the content itself. Authenticity should always be a target when it comes to social media presence and its one that can be hit by activating members to convey that message on behalf of the organization.

Each year, PCI has recruited and given the tools to NSGC members to share their stories through hashtags and Twitter chats on observances like Genetic Counselor Awareness Day, Black History Month and National Disability Employment Awareness Month. Addressing the need for more diversity in the profession, NSGCs I am a Genetic Counselor social media series gives a visual representation and voice to genetic counselors from different backgrounds and career settings. In this series, members have recorded videos and shared photos of themselves expressing why they love being a genetic counselor and the daily impact they make in the lives of their patients.

Hearing these stories can make a life-altering difference to someone whos just learned that a family member has a genetic condition, a person who is or plans to be pregnant, or an aspiring healthcare professional deciding on a specialty to pursue. These personal narratives bring a new dimension to how viewers relate to genetic counselors and open to door to continued future interactions with NSGC and the profession.

Owned media storytelling

With total and cost-effective control of messaging and how its delivered, owned media channels continue to be one of the most efficient ways for associations to engage members and reach consumers. PCI approaches these opportunities by closely working with clients to publish compelling stories through these channels that are deliberate pieces of the organizations overall strategy.

Hosted on its website, NSGCs owned media channels include a consumer-facing blog, podcast and member-facing articles that have become valuable homes for meaningful content that consumers and genetic counselors can access to learn more about niche topics put together by knowledgeable experts. PCI has set up NSGC to collaborate with its membership on this content by tapping its Expert Media Panel, patients and leaders in the Society and has helped build these communications into the core strategy of NSGCs messaging.

Its important for associations to be versatile communicators among the constantly changing healthcare landscape by using an integrated communications strategy to ensure a unified message. These strategies are what set the stage for successful storytelling and are truly the keys to open dialogue with members and consumers.

***

Rachel Bowen is Senior Account Supervisor at Public Communications Inc.
Khalifa Haftar

Lanny Davis and former Congressman Bob Livingston terminated their relationship with Libyan warlord Khalifa Haftar on September 30.

The partners promoted Haftar's support of a free and fair, United Nations-supervised election in Libya on December 24 to facilitate a peaceful, stable, unified and democratic country.

Davis distributed two media statements on behalf of Haftar and reached out to the Wall Street Journal's Vivian Salama, Politico's Ryan Lizza and Middle East Eye's Umar Farooq, according to his federal filing.

Lanny J. Davis Assocs. and The Livingston Group signed a contract on August 24 to represent the 77-year-old field marshal, who is a US citizen.

They were to receive a $160K payment to cover the first-month fee of a six-month contract.

That "Phase 1, High-Level Visit to Washington, DC" engagement was to be followed by "Phase II, Ongoing Representation."

The Davis-Livingston team was to negotiate the terms, fees and conditions of an annual Phase II pact following Phase I. That pact was to support the "continued enhancement of the US-Libya relationship."

Davis and Livingston released a statement to MEE: "We offer the field marshal our best wishes that he can carry out the commitment he made to us, leading us to represent him under FARA and as stated in our mission statement in our contract: That he will continue to support the UN-supervised free and fair elections as scheduled on 24 December 2021."
Allegra Perry

VF Corporation, a branded lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories company, names Allegra Perry VP, investor relations, effective January 2022. Perry comes to the company from The Watches of Switzerland Group, where she has served as director of investor relations and corporate affairs, joining the company six months after its IPO to establish a new investor relations platform. She was previously head of strategic planning and investor relations for the British luxury goods brand Mulberry. At VF, Perry will be responsible for leading all aspects of the companys investor relations program. She brings the ideal blend of experience. having held senior-level roles across investment banking, business development and investor relations, all within the global apparel and retail sectors, said VF chief financial officer Matt Puckett.

Jessica Lass

RENEWPR brings on Jessica Lass as one of the agencys team of independent public relations professionals. The founder of Lass Consulting, Lass has served as senior director of communications at the Energy Foundation and director of communications at Aclima, a platform that helps governments, communities and enterprise customers measure air pollution and greenhouse gases. She has also worked with RENEWPR president Ben Finzel at FleishmanHillard. Jessica is an accomplished PR professional with experience at agencies, non-profits and foundations in her portfolio, said Finzel. Shes launched brands, served as spokesperson for an environmental NGO and a foundation and responded to crises and related communications challenges.

Dave Dabbah

Robocorp, an open-source process automation platform, appoints Dave Dabbah as chief marketing officer. Most recently, Dabbah was CMO at customer lifecycle management and mobile marketing company CleverTap. Prior to that he was VP of marketing for Agora.io, VP of marketing at Ephox, and VP of marketing at Lyris. "In addition to his experience building, leading, and scaling marketing teams, Dave brings a bold vision to Robocorp," said co-founder and CEO Antti Karjalainen.
The University of Texas (Austin) is looking for a strategic communications partner to commemorate the landmark 1950 Supreme Court decision that desegrated its law school and monuments to honor UTA's first Black undergrads.
Fraser P. Seitel

The New York Times is, inarguably, the worlds most powerful newspaper.

Each day, the Times turns out 60-100 pages of originally-sourced news from around the globe, covering every subject imaginable. It reaches seven million people a day, 6.9 million of them online. Its daily news stories help set the agenda for governments and thought leaders throughout the world.

Ive been a subscriber to the print edition of The New York Times for three decades. And I despise it. It was not always thus.

Oh sure, the Times has always been contemptuous of public relations people, traditionally characterizing them as flacks, disregarding their news releases and often going to great lengths to avoid mentioning their clients, no matter how eleemosynary the client-sponsored subject.

But the Times, traditionally, has also housed the finest domestic and international journalists. Its war zone foreign correspondents, like John Burns and David Rhode, were fearless truth tellers. Its obituaries, still authored by high craftsmen like Sam Roberts and William Grimes, are models of meticulous writing. And its opinion columnists from James Reston to Russell Baker to Johnny Apple were legendary.

Today, alas, the tree has fallen far from the Apple.

The Times news pages have been overtaken by an obvious left-leaning, liberal bias. Similarly, its editorial page has become a wasteland of monotonous anti-capitalist, anti-conservative, anti-democratic screeds, authored mainly by mediocre writers, united in their antipathy toward Republicans and their uncompromising hatred of Donald Trump.

Now, theres nothing wrong with despising the truly despicable Trumpster, but sadly, ever since the Donalds stupefying victory in 2016, The New York Times has given up all pretense of objectivity. Its still not as far left as NPR or MSNBC, but its getting there.

Nowhere is this truer than on the once-revered editorial page, where a cavalcade of lesser lights is making its mark. Among them:

Charles Blow, the accidental humorist

Charles Blowhis real nameis without question the Times funniest columnist. Not that he intends to be funny; he doesnt. But Mr. Blow is so angry, so enraged, so apoplectic in every column, you cant help but chortle. He sees racists beneath every rock, sexists behind every smile, traitors around every tree.

Theres no subject that Mr. Blow confronts where the fate of the world doesnt hang in the balance. Everything stands in peril, every column, every day. A cynic might argue that the only logical reason for a columnist to be so persistently, pathologically pessimistic is to attract clicks to the Times, which Mr. Blow does. An even bigger cynic might argue that he purposely writes over the top to attract interest from TV networks, which Mr. Blow has as an MSNBC contributor and Black News Channel host.

Technically, Mr. Blow is less a writer than a stenographer, in that most of his columns spend most of their space quoting the words of others. Typical was a recent offering that spent six whole paragraphs quoting President Bidens Town Hall exchange with CNNs Anderson Cooper. Mr. Blow was positively hysterical that Biden hadnt argued more forcefully to pass a national voting rights act.

Failure to pass the bill, the columnist argued in his characteristically restrained manner, would prove cataclysmic, thus leaving little doubt that among New York Times opinion writers, Charles Blow is, indeed, hysterical.

Michelle Goldberg, the wounded worrier

Michelle Goldberg is the Times version of Debbie Downer. Shes worried about the possibility of Trump coming back, about her Upper West Side kids getting enough COVID shots, about less privileged kids getting no COVID shots, about Trump coming back, about centrist senator Kyrsten Sinema derailing a desperately-needed $3 trillion spending bill and, most of all, about Trump coming back.

Like her opinion associate Mr. Blow, Ms. Goldberg imagines disaster lurking around every corner. Dont read her column if youve recently installed a pacemaker. Typical was her recent upbeat view of the current political malaise:

The Republican Party is as deranged and authoritarian as ever. Bidens agenda is stuck in a congressional standoff thats at once frustrating, terrifying and extremely boring. The pandemic is dragging on, without an obvious off ramp. Were completely incapable of addressing the onrushing calamity of climate change. Burnout is marked by feelings of futility, and theres a lot of that going around.

On the bright side, unlike Mr. Blow, Ms. Goldberg doesnt believe everything is wrong with the country in which she resides; just . most things.

Tom Friedman, Paul Krugman, Maureen Dowd, fading fast

The senior Times op ed triumvirate has grown old, cold and increasingly irrelevant. Each of them, the paper is quick to point out, has earned high honors for commentary. True but  Ms. Dowd earned her Pulitzer Prize three decades ago, Mr. Friedman earned his Pulitzer two decades ago and Mr. Krugman earned his Nobel Prize in Economic Science more than a decade ago.

Today, their columns often tilt toward nostalgia, e.g. Mr. Friedman writing longingly of his trip to Afghanistan with Joe Biden in 2002, or nastiness, e.g. Ms. Dowd describing the adversarial Sen. Sinema as the Greta Garbo of Congress," or subjects about which they know little, e.g. the Nobel economist Mr. Krugman waxing on climate change, vaccine mandates and Mitch McConnell.

No longer, sadly, are the columns of the three stalwarts must reading; more like, read them if you must.

David Brooks, already gone

And then theres once-commonsensical, once clear-eyed, once laser-focused Times columnist David Brooks. What in the world has happened to him?

His columns today are abstract, obtuse and impossible to wade through. Recent Brooks columns, for example discussed such pressing topics as essentialism, the belief that the groups we join are rooted in reality; the mirage of self-awareness; and estrangement within the American family.

All perfectly reasonable issues for say, Psychology Today, but for the daily New York Times? I dont think so.

On the other hand, Mr. Brooks at least still tries to be even-handedalthough he, too, despises Trump!which is more than you can say for most of the newer Times contributorswriters like Lindsay Crouse, Kara Swisher, Jamelle Bouie and Farhad Manjoowhose views cover the spectrum from left to far left, from merely radical to downright revolutionary. Mr. Manjoo, for instance, recently extolled the virtues of a post-job, antiwork world, where people wrest the reins of their lives from the soul-sucking, health-destroying maw of capitalism. (His treatise failed, however, to give due credit to Vladimir Lenin.)

It is, indeed, a dismal lot. Then again, there are 

Gail Collins and Bret Stephens, a sign of hope

Somehow in this gloomy galaxy of eminently forgettable New York Times opinion writers, someone somewhere came up with the bright idea of teaming liberal Gail Collins with conservative Bret Stephens in a weekly op ed dialogue. And they struck gold.

Ms. Collins, whose career as a satirist nosedived when she couldnt find anything funny to write during the Trump years, and Mr. Stephens, who almost got fired when the Times realized he was an actual Republican, are a breath of fresh air on the opinion page. Their topical weekly give-and-take is inspired, intelligent, informative, witty and civil.

Pity its the only such column in the newspaper.

***

Fraser P. Seitel has been a communications consultant, author and teacher for 40 years. Hes author of the Pearson text The Practice of Public Relations, now in its 14th edition, and co-author of Rethinking Reputation and Idea Wise. He may be reached directly at yusake@aol.com.
26/10/2021 - The OECD and the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to start a three-year Country Programme.



The Programme will support a structural reform agenda by providing analysis, advice and guidance to inform the design and implementation of policies to help address Egypts main economic challenges, while moving towards closer alignment with OECD policy standards.





OECD Secretary-General Mathias Cormann and Dr Mostafa Madbouly, Prime Minister of the Arab Republic of Egypt, signed the agreement at the OECDs Paris headquarters. Prime Minister Madbouly was accompanied by Egypts Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, International Cooperation, Trade and Industry, Communications and Information Technology, and Electricity and Renewable Energy.



Today we have taken an important step forward in our collaboration with Egypt, Secretary-General Cormann said. As North Africas biggest economy and one of the most engaged Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries in OECD committees, Egypt is an important partner for the OECD. Egypts commitment to this programme demonstrates its clear commitment to necessary structural reforms to benefit the Egyptian people.



Such a comprehensive Country Programme can help Egypt to increase its competitiveness and integration in the global economy, said Prime Minister Madbouly. The Country Programme will enable Egypt to advance on its priorities under the second phase of the National Programme for Economic and Social Reform. It will also serve as guidance for the implementation of the recently revised sustainable development strategy Egypt Vision 2030.



The Country Programme envisions 35 projects with a co-ordination function to ensure that it is implemented and monitored effectively. The work will proceed across five thematic pillars:





Pillar 1: Inclusive and sustainable economic growth will address bottlenecks to productivity growth, promote competition in the economy, develop financial markets, and address other priorities to nurture a more competitive and inclusive economy. Egypt was the only country in the MENA region to see positive GDP growth in 2020 despite the global Covid-19 pandemic. According to the latest projections of Egypts Ministry of Planning and Economic Development, real GDP is expected to grow by 3.3% in 2020/21, before reaching 5.6% in 2021/22. Distributing the dividends of such growth is a key priority for the Egyptian government.

Pillar 2: Innovation and digital transformation includes projects that will intersect with education policy and human capital development to better take advantage of the digital transformation and promote innovation. Egypt invests 0.72% of GDP in R&D, a third of the OECD average (2.37%). While digital connectivity has improved, significant room for growth remains.

Pillar 3: Governance and anti-corruption will address a series of priority issues such as administrative reforms, better legislation, regulations and institutions, digital government, the rule of law and anti-corruption. Improving governance, strengthening the rule of law and the fight against corruption remains an important priority for Egypt as it aims to promote a greater level playing field for the private sector.

Pillar 4: Statistics will aim to improve data in specific themes, including the economy, private sector performance, gender, and trade in value-added. Improving the availability and governance of statistics in Egypt is essential to gather comprehensive evidence, including on the state of the economy, the population, the territory, and the environment.

Pillar 5: Sustainable development includes projects on strengthening frameworks governing the implementation of the SDGs, as well as promoting green growth, clean energy and quality infrastructure investments. Egypt recently revised its sustainable development strategy Vision 2030 to adapt to the most recent changes in the economy and ensure better alignment with the Sustainable Development Agenda 2030 and the African Unions Agenda 2063.

All pillars will have a strong focus on gender equality and the inclusion of women and young people in the economy and society, as well as on supporting the formalisation of SMEs. Currently, informality accounts for up to 40% of GDP and unemployment rates for youth and women are among the highest in the MENA region, at 30% and 22% respectively.



The Programme will also support the regional work of the OECD in the MENA region such as the MENA-OECD Initiative on Governance and Competitiveness for Development. As a key partner in this Initiative, Egypt can help disseminate and bring policy perspectives to and from the MENA region.





For further information, please contact Mr. Carlos Conde, Head of the Middle East and Africa Division, OECD Global Relations Secretariat (GRS). Media queries should be directed to the OECD Media Office (tel: +33 1 4524 9700).

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.
A weather forecaster is warning that Orange Weather Warnings could be issued today by Met Eireann with a band of very heavy rain expected to Ireland.

In a post on Facebook this morning, Weather Alerts Ireland says that a band of rain associated with a low pressure system in the North Atlantic is expected to push over Ireland tonight bringing heavy rain to many parts to Ireland. This band is expected to persist over Ireland through tomorrow bringing very high rain totals.

According to the forecaster, on higher ground in the south west, 99mm of rain is forecast in a 24 hour period according to this mornings ECMWF model.

In south Kerry, Cork, Waterford, Wexford, Wicklow, south Kilkenny and Carlow totals of over 50mm are expected in a 24 hour period and over 70mm on higher ground which could lead to localised and river flooding.

For more from Weather Alerts Ireland CLICK HERE

According to the latest Met Eireann forecast, persistent rain will arrive along the west coast later in the evening and it will be wet and windy overnight as the persistent and locally heavy rain in the west extends to all areas overnight with a clearance to scattered showers developing in the north and west towards dawn. Temperatures not falling below 11 to 14 degrees as southwest winds moderate inland, remaining strong on exposed coasts of the south and southeast.

According to Met Eireann, rain will persist in the south and east through much of tomorrow, Wednesday, and there will be a risk of some localised flooding.
The jury in the trial of a man accused of murdering a 24-year-old Dubliner, whose decapitated body was found in a Kildare woods, has watched a CCTV montage of the men's movements on the day of the killing.

Stephen Penrose (38), of Newtown Court, Malahide Road, Coolock, Dublin 17, has pleaded not guilty to murdering Philip Finnegan at Rahin Woods, Rahin, Edenderry, Co Kildare on August 10, 2016.

The trial has heard that Mr Finnegan went missing before his decapitated body was found buried in a shallow grave in a Kildare woods. The accused man, who was representing himself in the trial, has hired new lawyers but has declined to continue attending his trial.

Garda Shauna Nolan today told prosecuting counsel, John Berry BL, that the jury would see a montage of footage from between August 8 to 10, 2016.

Referring to CCTV footage from August 10, Gda Nolan said a blue saloon car pulled up at Sweeney's filling station in Edenderry, Co Offaly at 3.46pm and a man identified as Mr Finnegan can be seen getting out of the left hand side of the car. He is dressed in a grey top and striped tracksuit bottoms, said Gda Nolan.

In the next clip, Mr Finnegan can be seen entering the shop. That clip shows he was wearing a grey hoodie with a blue top underneath and dark bottoms with a white emblem on the left thigh.

Gda Nolan identified the second person to walk into the shop as Mr Penrose. He is wearing a dark-coloured top, trousers and dark coloured shoes.

Rahin Woods, where the deceased's remains were discovered by a man out walking his dog 30 days later, is a few kilometres north of Sweeney's filling station in Edenderry, the court has heard.

It is the prosecution case that Mr Finnegan was killed shortly after he was seen on the CCTV footage from Sweeney's filling station.

The trial continues on Tuesday before Mr Justice Alexander Owens and the 12 jurors.

In his opening address, prosecuting barrister Brendan Grehan SC said Mr Finnegan's decapitated body was found buried in a shallow grave in a Kildare woods. Counsel said Mr Finnegan had "certain troubles in the past" and had taken to wearing a protective vest.

The lawyer also told the jury in his opening address that attempts had been made to cut up and burn the body of Mr Finnegan, who had been missing for almost a month and who had met a "gruesome death".

Significantly, the barrister said, the jury will hear evidence that a bloodied glove was found in the woods which was a DNA match to the accused man Mr Penrose.
A man has been given a three month suspended prison sentence for the possession of two dead Buzzards, found strung up on his land.

The offence was discovered when a National Parks & Wildlife Service (NPWS) conservation officer travelled to the man's land to investigate a complaint last year.

Possession of the dead buzzards was contrary to Section 45 (2) & 45 (7) of the Wildlife Acts and the case was heard before Portlaoise District Court.

The complaint alleged that two dead Buzzards were tied up to an electricity post and a fence stake in cultivated fields.

Upon arrival, the NPWS searched the area and found one dead Buzzard strung up by its outstretched wings to an electricity post and another dead Buzzard strung up by its legs to a fence stake.

Following court proceedings, Kilkenny Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, welcomed the verdict.

"I welcome the conviction in this awful case and would like to thank everyone involved in securing it," he said.

"Recent judgements being handed down in the Courts to people convicted of deliberately destroying habitats or harming wildlife are sending out a clear signal that, as a society, we will no longer tolerate such actions.

"Wildlife crime is serious, and it has serious consequences. We need to protect nature."
Parents have been warned about the danger posed to children by jelly sweets containing cannabis, after a number of children who ate them were hospitalised for cannabis poisoning.

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is today urging the public, especially parents and guardians to be extremely vigilant to the dangers of inadvertent consumption, particularly by children, of cannabis edibles, products such as jelly sweets containing the psychoactive cannabis component known as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).

"There is growing availability in Ireland of food products, in particular jelly sweets that contain significant amounts of the illicit narcotic drug THC," the FSAI warned.

In advance of the Halloween festivities next week, the FSAI reminded people of the dangers, when small children, teenagers and adults will be celebrating.

"There is an increased risk of people, particularly children, unwittingly consuming these types of products that are intentionally packaged to resemble popular brands of jellies in order to avoid detection. This year to date, it has been reported that six children under the age of ten have been hospitalised having accidentally consumed THC-containing products which looked like normal jelly sweets," the FSAI said.

Cannabis edibles are illegal food products containing THC and come in many forms, but primarily jelly sweets. THC is a controlled substance in Ireland with a zero tolerance under the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977. Furthermore, in food, THC is considered a contaminant, with no permitted threshold in EU or Irish food law.

The FSAI states that the high concentrations (up to 50mg/jelly) of THC in these illicit edible sweets can pose serious health risks, particularly to teenagers and children of all ages whose neurological, physical and physiological development could be impacted negatively.

Depending on the THC concentration, eating one of these jellies can mean ingesting a level of THC that is 5-10 times higher than that inhaled when smoking cannabis.

"The real concern is that children are not aware of the dangers and if they manage to gain access to a bag of these jellies, they will rarely eat just one and therefore, overdosing is a very likely outcome.

"Unlike the almost immediate effects from smoking cannabis, there is at least a thirty-minute time delay from consumption of cannabis edibles until the initial effects are felt. This poses a serious risk to those who have eaten these jellies who might mistakenly believe that they need to consume several jellies to feel an effect and then find they have overdosed when it is too late.

"Cannabis toxicity can cause cognitive and motor impairment and in the case of children this can be extreme, lasting up to 24 to 36 hours after consumption," the FSAI said.

This call by the FSAI follows reports of the first cases of paediatric cannabis poisoning in Ireland with six children, all under the age of ten, hospitalised after accidentally consuming these illegal jelly sweets.

In addition, there have also been reports of teenagers falling seriously ill, and in some cases requiring hospitalisation after having seizures and becoming unconscious from overdosing on these cannabis edibles.

Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive, FSAI says the accidental consumption of edible cannabis products by children is extremely worrying.

"We know adults and/or teenagers are ordering these illegal products from online or other illegal sources for their own personal use. However, they often have no understanding of the real health dangers of these products and are careless or reckless in putting young childrens health at risk by allowing them access to these products.

"The prevalence of these edible products containing THC in communities and schools around the country is a growing cause for concern and parents and guardians should be extra vigilant during festivities such as Halloween where parties will be underway, and the risk of accidental consumption of these products is considerably higher.

We are working closely with other Government agencies including the Health Service Executives Environmental Health Service and the Public Analysts Laboratory, Dublin; An Garda Siochana; Revenues Customs Service; Forensic Science Ireland; the State Laboratory and; the Food Standards Agency in Northern Ireland to detect and stop the import of these illegal food products into Ireland.

"We welcome any information from the public in the national effort to curb the availability of these illegal products and to protect our children and young people. We can be contacted through our online complaint form at www.fsai.ie/makeitbetter, she said.
Independent TD for Laois-Offaly Carol Nolan has said she has engaged with Bank of Ireland to seek an immediate reconsideration of its decision to withdraw its ATM services at locations such as Banagher.

Deputy Nolan said that she had been contacted by a number of Banagher constituents who are worried that the removal of the ATM, as part of the Bank of Irelands wider commitment to withdraw services from 88 locations throughout the state, will create significant levels of public disruption.

We know that Bank of Ireland intends to withdraw its staff from a number of branches in Offaly, including Edenderry, Banagher and Clara, while Rathdowney, Mountrath and Durrow are also being hit in Laois," Deputy Nolan commented.

"This has already created additional levels of anxiety and stress for the ordinary people and businesses who live and operate in those areas.

"They certainly see it as a kind of death by a thousand cuts approach to services in rural Ireland and they are very angry about that, as indeed am I.

"It is all very well for Bank of Ireland and indeed the other main pillar banks to talk about the switch to online banking but to not even leave the bare minimum in terms of an accessible ATM just seems like utter contempt for customers who have stuck with the bank for decades.

"This is what is infuriating people in Banagher, Edenderry, Clara, Rathdowney, Mountrath and Durrow; the sense that their loyalty and their taxes, which helped keep Bank of Ireland afloat, is being thrown back in their faces.

"There is no sense of reciprocity on the part of Bank of Ireland and no meaningful acknowledgement that it has a public duty to provide minimal service provision such as ATMs.

"I will continue to fight, along with my Rural Independent Group colleagues, to ensure that people living in rural towns and villages are no longer treated as second class citizens who are supposed to just shut up and accept that a bottom line approach to public services can and will leave them behind, concluded Deputy Nolan.
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Laxman Pai, Opalesque Asia:

The South Korea-focused private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) industry has experienced accelerated growth, as its assets under management (AUM) reached a record $113bn as of December 2020, nearly doubling in two years, said a study.

According to the Preqin Alternative Assets in Asia-Pacific: Korea report, total dry powder in South Korea PEVC funds amounts to $37bn as of December 2020, up 76% from the year.

Buyout strategies make up 41% of total AUM, comparatively high for the Asia-Pacific market, and South Korea-based buyout funds raised a record $17bn in 2020, despite a challenging environment due to the pandemic.

South Korea, considered to be a mature economy for private equity and venture capital (PEVC) investments, is expected to see increased buyout activity, with additional investment opportunities emerging due to the government's plan to reform chaebol governance, ultimately allowing large conglomerates to set up corporate venture capital funds.

The report said that disruptive technologies continue to drive Korea's venture capital ecosystem, which saw a total of 871 transactions in 2020, up from only 308 in 2017.

The total deal value has climbed as a result, reaching $5.3bn in 2020 from $3.1bn in 2017. Korea boasts a vibrant venture capital ecosystem, one that has produced several unicorns across the technology space. The largest is currently Seoul-based mobile fintech platform Viva Republica, which has reached......................

To view our full article Click here
An activist who was acquitted in August of interfering in a protest arrest last year has been acquitted of another charge in which police accused him of blocking a street during a protest
Ottumwa, IA (52501)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High 53F. SW winds shifting to NW at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies. Low near 35F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
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NEW YORK (AP)  Stocks that traded heavily or had substantial price changes Monday:

Bloom Energy Corp., up $7.50 to $27.69.

The developer of fuel cell systems expanded its partnership with South Korea's SK Group.

Tesla Inc., up $115.18 to $1,024.86.

Rental car company Hertz will buy 100,000 vehicles from the electric car maker.

PayPal Holdings Inc., up $6.48 to $246.88.

The digital payments company denied reports it's pursuing an acquisition of Pinterest.

Kimberly-Clark Corp., down $2.93 to $130.11.

The maker of Huggies diapers and Kleenex tissues cut its profit forecast as it faces supply chain problems.

Valero Energy Corp., up $1.70 to $82.69.

Energy prices were mixed and helped support energy stocks.

Moderna Inc., up $23.02 to $349.56.

The biotechnology company announced encouraging data from a study of its COVID-19 vaccine in children ages 6 to 12.

Freeport-McMoRan Inc., up $1.67 to $39.34.

The metals mining company gained ground along with rising copper prices.

Restaurant Brands International Inc., down $3.11 to $58.85.

The owner of the Burger King and Tim Hortons chains reported weak third-quarter revenue.
CANADIAN LAKES  The members of the Canadian Lakes Car Club would like to thank the community for their participation in the 17th annual charity Cruisin' at the Castle Car Show.

The car club members were honored to be able to present each of three community charities with a $1,000 donation from their Cruisin' At The Castle Car Show proceeds.
BRUSSELS (AP)  With coronavirus infections and hospitalizations shooting upward, the Belgian government on Tuesday reimposed some pandemic restrictions that it only relaxed a few weeks ago and expanded a nationwide use of the COVID-19 pass.

Daily infections in the European Union nation of 11 million increased 75% to reach 5,299 cases over the past last week. Hospitalizations have increased 69% to reach 102 daily cases. Deaths have increased slightly, with an average of 13 a day.

As of Friday, there will be face masks in public places and they will be mandatory for staff of bars, restaurants and fitness clubs, Prime Minister Alexander De Croo said. We need to raise our walls of protection."

He added that the country's COVID-19 pass will have to be shown to enter bars, restaurants and fitness clubs as of next week. The passport shows you are either fully vaccinated, have had a recent negative test or have recently recovered from the disease.

De Croo said the new moves still stopped well short of going into a lockdown. He said because over 85% of Belgian adults are vaccinated, measures did not have to be as drastic as those previously in the pandemic.

Last year, in a situation like this, we would be locking down certain activities, he said. "What we do today is keep everything open, using a vaccination passport or using masks.

A complicating factor has emerged in the high virus transmission rate in Belgian primary schools. The government research institute Sciensano found that more that 1 in 4 pupils there have antibodies to the virus.

Similar discussions about possibly increasing anti-virus measures are being held in the Netherlands, where the government is seeking advice from experts on whether it needs to reintroduce pandemic restrictions amid sharply rising infection rates. The Netherlands has one of the fastest rising infection rates in Europe.

___

Follow all AP stories on the coronavirus pandemic at https://apnews.com/coronavirus-pandemic.
More than 100 people attended Monday night's Midland Public Schools board of education meeting, where the topics of mask mandates and survey questions were both discussed extensively.

MPS currently requires masks to be worn by all students and staff in grades K-6, and that is a decision that the school board has left in the hands of Superintendent Michael Sharrow for the past year.

But several citizens at Monday's meeting contended that it is the seven-member board, not the superintendent, that should make the final call on a mask mandate.

Masks were required for all MPS students and staff in grades K-12 for the entire 2020-21 school year. The current school year started without a mask mandate for any grade level. But one week into the school year, in response to high COVID numbers in some of the schools, Sharrow modified the policy to require masks for grades K-6, which encompasses the ages  up to 11  that are not yet eligible to get a COVID vaccination.

Sharrow explained to the Daily News on Tuesday that the MPS board on Oct. 19, 2020, adopted a policy through Neola, a multi-state school district policy organization, that puts the decision to require masks in the hands of the superintendent.

"I never leave them (the school board) out of a decision," Sharrow said, noting that he consulted with each board member before implementing the K-6 mask mandate on Aug. 30.

During an open discussion among the board members and the superintendent at the end of the meeting, Sharrow said he is strongly inclined to lift the mask mandate once a COVID vaccine is made available to ages 5-11  an announcement from the federal government that is expected to come early in November.

"As soon as that shot is available, I am happy to lift (the mandate)," he said. "I am going to get anger (from the community) either way. The law does say I must keep kids protected. Were all (of different opinions) on what that protection means. Its very clear where I lean: I don't have a mask on tonight, and I started the school year with choice (for parents about whether their children should wear a mask or not)."

School board President Scott McFarland and a few other board members said they continue to believe that the superintendent is in the best position to decide whether a mask mandate is needed.

"Any board class offered through (the Michigan Association of School Boards) will tell board members that is one of the administrative functions of the superintendent," McFarland said of the mask mandate decision. "He is in direct contact with the medical experts."

William Sutter was one of several people in attendance at the meeting who said the school board should vote on whether to continue the mask mandate.

"It should be voluntary, it should be a choice, and you guys need to vote on it. We are all asking you to vote," he said. "Do your job or we can find people to replace you next time you come up for a vote."

Sharrow said the mask mandate should be reviewed again at the next board meeting, which is Monday, Nov. 22.

"By then, maybe well see the decline in our numbers (that has been expected) and we will be able to make a more solid decision. And we will get some more information from the health department," Sharrow said.

Survey questions

At least three people spoke during the public comment period about their concerns that questions were modified or deleted in the Developmental Asset Study conducted by the Legacy Center and Midland Kids First that is being given to grades 6-12.

"It has come to our attention that the survey has been altered," said Midland High School teacher Heather Aviles, who said she was representing the school's DEI committee. "It seems a few individuals succeeded in having questions removed on gender identity and sexual behaviors.

"This not only robs (students) of resources, but invalidates them as human beings. By altering the survey, we are not honoring all," Aviles continued.

But MPS parent Amy DeHaven had a different view on the survey.

Id really be interested to see the stats of numbers of families we are talking about in our community (who have a child who identifies as transgender)," DeHaven said at the meeting. "What sort of percentage are we dealing with here if you feel it is appropriate to ask my 11-year-old son if he is transgender? My son is male and my daughter is female.  God doesnt make mistakes."

Sharrow told the Daily News that MPS along with Meridian Public Schools, Bullock Creek School District and Coleman Community Schools, brought concerns to the Legacy Center and Midland Kids First about some of the questions in the survey. He said that a question about gender identity was subsequently modified and a couple of questions about sexual activity were removed from the survey.

Sharrow said MPS will now review how it approaches surveys in the future.

"Should surveys be 'opt in' vs. 'opt out'?" he said. "Should we allow outside firms to survey our kids at all? Were going to review that in light of the world we are in today."

The Developmental Asset Study survey is done anonymously in efforts to find what is going well in the lives of our youth and what they are concerned about, as well as to allow them to share their values, perspectives, and experiences. Findings from the previous studies have helped drive change in Midland County.

Shining Star awards

MPS bus driver Robin Reinke and Jefferson Middle School counselor Lindsay Timmerman were named the monthly MPS Shining Star award recipients at Monday's meeting. The board members gave both of them standing ovations.

Sharrow noted that Reinke joined MPS in 2019 after retiring from a 30-year career with Dow.

"Mr. Robin is the real deal," says an award nomination from a parent that Sharrow read. "He's always friendly, always excited to see the kids. He had great communication when the bus route changed slightly, and that was much appreciated."

Reinke was grateful to accept the award.

I know Im doing something right, so thats good," he said. "I always thought driving a school bus would be a fun job, and it has been so far. The kids are great.

Timmerman is in her second year at Jefferson and made a big impression on a parent who nominated her.

We are new to the district. We recently moved here from another state," Sharrow read from the nomination. "She really went above and beyond what was asked of her (to make us feel welcome). She is our shining star.

Eastlawn property

On Aug. 31, MPS held a neighborhood meeting in cooperation with the City of Midland and the Midland Area Community Foundation to hear input from residents living in the vicinity of the Eastlawn Elementary School property at the corner of Eastlawn and Jefferson, now vacant and still owned by MPS.

At the meeting, some of the possibilities for redeveloping the property into housing were presented, and the residents in attendance voiced many concerns.

Sharrow said at Monday's meeting that a request for proposal for the Eastlawn property has been posted and he believed that it will close next week.

He said first a committee will consider the bids and then the school board will have to vote to approve the chosen bid.
The following list includes recent reports from the Midland County Sheriff's Office and the Midland Police Department. Compiled by reporter Tess DeGayner.

Friday, Oct. 22

10:45 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to a Lee Township residence regarding an unwanted guest. It was discovered the guest lived there. The deputy explained an eviction process to the complainant and answered some questions.

10:27 p.m.  Officers responded to a suicide attempt near the 2600 block of Rodd Street.

8:10 p.m.  Officers responded to a report regarding a driver operating a vehicle on a suspended license for the second time near Eastman and Carpenter roads.

7:18 p.m.  Officers responded to a parking violation near Ohio and Carolina streets.

12:23 p.m.  An animal control deputy was dispatched to a Lincoln Township home regarding two dogs "running loose." The dog owner lived across the street, came to the scene and recovered her dogs.

12:02 p.m.  An animal control deputy received a call regarding "a number of" feral cats at a residence in Edenville Township. The owner reported they will attempt to catch the cats and transport them to the Humane Society. No further action was required by Midland Animal Control.

10:56 a.m.  An animal control deputy was dispatched to Edenville Township regarding a loose horse. The owner arrived and returned the horse to its enclosure prior to the deputy's arrival.

9:52 a.m.  Deputies made contact with a 74-year-old Warren Township man, regarding his cows "being loose" and close to the roadway. The man said he would put the cows away.

5:37 a.m.  Deputies were dispatched to Lee Township regarding a domestic assault. A 40-year-old Lee Township man assaulted his 39-year-old wife, subsequently he was arrested and transported to the Midland County jail without incident.

12:23 a.m.  Officers responded to a call regarding "malicious destruction of property" near the 3800 block of Freedom Court.

Thursday, Oct. 21

11:24 p.m.  Deputies responded to a Mills Township residence for a possible domestic assault between a 58-year-old woman and her 59-year-old husband. There were no injuries and deputies separated the two people involved for the evening. A report has been sent to the prosecutor for review.

8:18 p.m.  Officers responded to an injury crash near the 2000 block of North Saginaw Road.

7:37 p.m.  A deputy was dispatched to a Midland Township location for a car-deer crash.

4:16 p.m.  Deputies provided general assistance to a 34-year-old Hope Township female who had questions about civil issues involving a rental unit.

3:39 p.m.  Officers responded to a report of larceny near the 7600 block of Eastman Avenue.

1:34 p.m.  Officers responded to a "suspicious" situation near the 100 block of East Carpenter Street.

12:43 p.m.  Deputies were dispatched to make contact with a 61-year-old Lee Township man regarding a wellbeing check, a request made by the Midland County Department of Human Services (DHS). Deputies made contact with the man at his residence in Lee Township, he advised he was OK.

12:26 p.m.  Officers assisted another agency regarding probation/parole near the 300 block of Walter Court.

11:27 a.m.  Officers assisted Adult Protective Services near the 1600 block of State Street.

9:43 a.m.  Deputies responded to a car-deer crash in Mills Township.

8:46 a.m.  A deputy completed a salvage inspection in Jasper Township.

4:10 a.m.  Deputies were dispatched to an Edenville Township residence regarding an alarm. A deputy checked the building and found it to be secure.

3:23 a.m.  Officers responded to a report of a loud party near the 1600 block of Sayre Street.
Retired Michigan State Police Trooper Jerry Carter has begun a second career as the new owner of a Midland insurance agency dedicated to serving the educational community.

Carter purchased the Longuski Insurance Agency from longtime owner Andy Longuski, who began the business about 21 years ago. The two knew each other from their days together as State Police officers. Longuski is a retired commander of the Michigan State Police Polygraph Section.

I needed and wanted to do something, said Carter of his decision to get into the insurance business after retiring as a first lieutenant following 26 years of service. I love being in Midland and cant wait to support the community. This is a new chapter for me.

The agency officially changed hands last Jan. 1 and is now the Longuski-Carter Agency. While the name has changed, the companys philosophy remains true to its ideals.

We always have and always will provide courteous, knowledgeable service to our members, said Terri Kaufman, who has been an agent with the Longuski Agency for 18 years and will continue on with the Longuski-Carter Agency. We look for the best rate for them and do our best to always give our clients coverage to protect them.

Carter said Kaufmans expertise and the relationships she has built with customers through the years are invaluable. As the agencys office manager, "She has grown the business, he said. Shes the glue. I dont know that I would have done this if she hadnt stayed on.

Longuski-Carter Agency specializes in providing home and auto insurance in Midland. Its a Meemic agency, part of AAA Auto Club Group. Meemic provides insurance for educators and other school employees in Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin and Georgia. This includes personal, auto, home, boat and umbrella coverage.

Meemic has been around for over 70 years. It was founded by a small group of teachers to provide affordable auto insurance to their colleagues.

Our members truly become family, said Kaufman, a state-licensed property and casualty insurance agent. Meemic is considered family as it is specifically for the educational community. Our personal members here in Michigan have become family over the years.

The companys affiliation with AAA allows them to offer additional products.

Meemic is still our bread and butter, Carter said. We can now offer AAA to people through Auto Club Group, but we will never waver from serving our communitys educators, cooks, bus drivers and other educational employees.

Longuski-Carter Agency is a two-person operation (Kaufman and Carter), but that doesnt mean the agency is limited in what it can offer.

Said Kaufman, Jerry and I both have our areas of expertise. He is the AAA man and I am the Meemic woman. Of course, we can both quote all of the companies we offer, but its nice that we both have these areas of expertise. We also like to get out into the community and visit the schools.

Carter retired from Michigan State Police just over a year ago and became a licensed agent in July of 2020.

Im learning the business from Terri; she tells me what to do, he said. The customers know her. The customers love her. This would be a scary proposition without her.

Carter is a certified fire and explosion investigator. To him, this career move has personal connotations because he has friends and family serving in school districts throughout the Great Lakes Bay Region. Hes not about to disappoint an educational community he deeply believes in.

As we continue to grow our agency under our new name, Jerrys interest and active participation in our community will continue to build the relationships we have established over the years, Kaufman said. We look forward to building more.

Longuski-Carter Agency is located at 318 South Saginaw Road, Suite 2, at the corner of Rodd, right next to Big Apple Bagels.
HILLSDALE, Mich. (AP)  State officials have barred a township clerk in southern Michigan from running her community's local election next week.

Stephanie Scott, the clerk in Hillsdale County's Adams Township, failed to take steps to ensure the security of the vote, the Michigan Bureau of Elections said.

The county instead will supervise the election in the township.

The state said Scott did not allow a contractor to perform preventative maintenance on voting equipment and did not conduct accuracy tests, among other issues.

Your past statements, detailed in prior letters, indicate that you are unwilling to fulfill your responsibilities as clerk, and you have failed to confirm that you will fulfill them in response to recent correspondence, state elections director Jonathan Brater said in a letter Monday.

Scott, a Republican, denied being negligent but said she had concerns about the equipment. She told The Detroit News that she had considered paper ballots and a hand count but settled on tabulators.

Quite frankly, I was coming to a moral quandary of even running this election, Scott said.

At least two other clerks in Michigan communities have been sidelined in the Nov. 2 election. Sherikia Hawkins is accused of forging records after Oakland County officials raised questions about how the city accounted for absentee ballots in 2018. She is awaiting trial.

In Livingston County's Genoa Township, Polly Skolarus is facing a misdemeanor charge. The state said absentee ballots in the 2020 fall election were placed in a canvas bag instead of a designated box.
CAIRO (AP)  The general leading Sudans coup has vowed to usher the country to an elected government. But Abdel-Fattah Burhan has powerful allies, including Gulf nations and a feared Sudanese paramilitary commander, and he appears intent on keeping the military firmly in control.

Burhan first gained prominence in 2019, when he and other top generals toppled Omar al-Bashir, under pressure from mass demonstrations against the autocrats 30-year rule.

He remained in charge for several months, until international pressure forced the military to reach a power-sharing deal with the protesters. That established a joint civilian-military Sovereign Council headed by Burhan that was supposed to rule Sudan until elections, set for 2023.

Burhan's record was relatively clean and he was not indicted by The International Criminal Court like al-Bashir and others for crimes against humanity during the Darfur conflict of the early 2000s. He was a rare non-Islamist among the top generals during al-Bashirs military-Islamist regime. That helped Sudan emerge from the international pariah status it had under al-Bashir.

On Monday, Burhan swept away the vestiges of civilian government. He dissolved the Sovereign Council and the transitional government, detained Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other officials, and declared a state of emergency. Hamdok was released Tuesday, but others remain in custody.

The takeover came just weeks before Burhan, 61, was scheduled to be replaced by a civilian as head of the council. He has promised that the military will hand over power once a government is elected in July 2023.

Civilian control would not only undermine the military's political power, but also threaten its extensive financial resources and could lead to prosecutions for rights violations in the past 30 years.

Burhan has been backed in recent years by Egypt, led by a general-turned-president, and Gulf countries, particularly the United Arab Emirates. He trained in Egypts military college and has made multiple visits since 2019 to the Emirates de-facto ruler, Abu Dhabi crown prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

In a sign of the decisive behind-the-scenes role of Gulf countries, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with the foreign minister of regional heavyweight Saudi Arabia about Sudan on Tuesday. A State Department statement said both men condemned the military takeover.

On Monday, Egypt and some of the Gulf countries had avoided criticizing the coup, calling instead for calm and dialogue.

Theres a general preference for a strong military leader who is very transactional. That fits Gulf interests more than a democratic government, said Cameron Hudson, a former U.S. State Department official and Sudan expert at the Atlantic Councils Africa Center.

Theyre fearful of what an Arab Spring success story looks like, he said, referring to the uprisings in 2011 that helped inspire the Sudanese protests.

Also standing behind Burhan is another general, one who is more feared: Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, commander of the Rapid Support Forces  a paramilitary unit that grew out of the al-Bashir-backed Janjaweed militias notorious for atrocities and rapes during the Darfur conflict.

RSF fighters were prominent in Mondays coup, taking part in arresting Hamdok and other senior officials and clamping down in the streets. The force is virtually a de facto parallel army of tens of thousands of battle-tested fighters, said Suliman Baldo, senior adviser at The Sentry, an investigative and policy group focusing on war crimes in Africa.

Burhan has a long connection with Dagalo, who is also known as Hemedti. Burhan was a commander in Darfur, where the military and RSF waged a brutal campaign to crush an insurgency, Baldo said. As many as 300,000 people were killed and 2.7 million were displaced in a campaign of mass rape and abuse.

He distanced himself from the atrocities, once telling the BBC, I am not responsible for any bad actions in Darfur... As far as Im concerned, I was fighting an enemy just as all regular forces do.

In 2015, Burhan and Dagalo coordinated the deployment of Sudanese troops and RSF fighters to Yemen to fight with the Saudi-led coalition against Iranian-aligned Houthi rebels. Their forces received hefty payments from the Saudis and Emiratis, building those countries connections to the two commanders.

In the uprising against al-Bashir, Burhan and Dagalo refused orders to violently disperse the protesters and even met with them at their sit-in camp. Behind the scenes, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the Emirates encouraged them to push out al-Bashir.

But protests continued after al-Bashirs fall, with demands for the military to give up. On June 2, 2019, security forces and RSF fighters attacked the protesters. More than 100 people were killed, and soldiers raped dozens of women. Prosecutors blamed paramilitary forces, but the bloodshed stained Burhan and Dagalo in the eyes of protesters.

Burhan was responsible because he was the leader, its that simple, said Osman Mirgany, a Khartoum-based columnist and editor of the daily al-Tayar. He promised not to touch the sit-in and then a massacre occurred. From that point on, people realized he would never keep his promises.

For the militarys opponents, that skepticism hangs over Burhans promises of civilian rule. Baldo, of the Sentry group, said the general and Dagalo are both intent on remaining free from civilian oversight.

Moreover, he said, they are concerned about being held accountable for atrocity crimes committed under their command  in Darfur and in the 2019 sit-in killings and rapes.

-

Associated Press writer Jon Gambrell in Dubai contributed.
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  Iran executed over 250 people, including at least four child offenders, in 2020 and so far this year has carried out 230 executions that included nine women and one child who was executed in secret, the U.N. independent investigator on human rights in Iran said Monday.

Javaid Rehman told the U.N. General Assemblys human rights committee that Iran continues to implement the death penalty at an alarming rate and said the absence of official statistics and lack of transparency around executions means that this practice escapes scrutiny resulting in serious abuses preventing accountability.

According to Amnesty International, Iran was the top executioner in the Middle East last year, accounting for more than half the regions 493 executions, followed by Egypt, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Amnestys annual figures exclude China, where executions believed to number in the thousands are classified as a state secret, and omit executions from some countries marred by conflict like Syria.

Rehman said his latest report highlights serious concerns over the grounds Iran uses for imposing the death penalty, such as vague national security charges. Iran also has deeply flawed judicial processes, where even the most basic safeguards are absent, he said.

These elements, and the heavy reliance by courts on forced confessions extracted under torture and other fair trial violations lead me to conclude that the imposition of the death penalty in the Islamic Republic of Iran constitutes arbitrary deprivation of life, Rehman said.

Rehman, a Pakistani-born professor of human rights and Islamic law at Brunel University in London, called it imperative for Iran to undertake criminal law and justice reforms, starting most urgently with a moratorium on the death penalty for child offenders.

He said that beyond executions, the overall human rights situation in Iran remains grim.

He pointed to persistent impunity for serious violations of human rights law, including those committed by people in powerful positions and at the highest level of public office.

The presidential elections in June this year clearly highlight this point, Rehman said. He didnt elaborate but Irans new hard-line president, Ebrahim Raisi, led Irans judiciary in recent years and as a prosecutor early in his career Raisi served on a so-called death panel" deciding who would live or be executed in a purge that activists say resulted in the killing of as 5,000 people in 1988.

Rehman said other factors contributing to impunity include the alarming level of intimidation or persecution of those who call for accountability, citing the high number of acts of reprisals against families of victims, human rights defenders, lawyers and journalists who seek justice. There also has been a heightened targeting of minority groups and advocates of minority rights, he said.

The use of lethal force against peaceful protesters continues to be characteristic of the authorities approach to the exercise of the right to peaceful assembly, he told the committee.

Rehman pointed to the lethal use of live ammunition against unarmed people demonstrating against the lack of water in the western province of Khuzestan in July, when at least nine people including a minor were killed and a large number of other protesters were injured.

He said the widespread use of torture against detainees in many cases amounts to arbitrary deprivation of life.

Rehman singled out two cases: Amirhossein Hatami, a Kurdish prisoner who died after reportedly being beaten with batons to his head by prison officials, and the unclear circumstances of the death in September of Shahin Naseri, a prisoner who provided witness testimony about the torture endured by Navid Afkari, who was executed last year after participating in protests.
On Monday, the Facebook Papers, a project among 17 American news organizations, was released, as thousands of pages of internal company documents obtained by Frances Haugen, the former Facebook product-manager-turned-whistleblower were accessed and analyzed by those organizations.

The papers are redacted versions of disclosures Haugen has made over several months to the Securities and Exchange Commission, alleging Facebook was prioritizing profits over safety and hiding research from investors and the public, according to the Associated Press.

These complaints cover a range of topics, from Facebook's efforts to continue growing its audience, to how its platforms might harm children, to its alleged role in inciting political violence. The same redacted versions of those filings are being provided to members of Congress as part of its investigation. And that process continues as Haugens legal team goes through the process of redacting the SEC filings by removing the names of Facebook users and lower-level employees and turns them over to Congress.

The documents show that measures to suppress hateful, deceptive content were lifted after the American presidential election in 2020, as pro-Donald Trump groups disputing the legitimacy of the election experienced "meteoric" growth, according to the Washington Post.

The trove of internal Facebook documents reveals that the social media giant has privately and meticulously tracked real-world harms exacerbated by its platforms, ignored warnings from its employees about the risks of their design decisions and exposed vulnerable communities around the world to a cocktail of dangerous content, the Post reported.

The Post found that what Mark Zuckerberg says publically doesn't lineup with internal documents, as Zuckerberg testified before Congress that Facebook removed 94% of the hate speech it found, when in internal documents, the company estimated it was removing less than 5% of all hate speech on the platform.

ABC News reported that on Jan. 6, Facebook noticed a rise in social media posts calling for violence and incitement around the certification of the U.S. presidential election result and the storming of the Capitol. There was a spike in the volume of reports from Facebook and Instagram users complaining about posts inciting violence on that day, around seven times as many hourly reports as opposed to the previous week.

More severe restrictions, known as "break glass" measures within Facebook, had been active earlier in 2020 but disappeared after the election. Several of the restrictions listed as having been previously rolled back focused on groups, such as freezing commenting on some group posts or preventing groups from changing their names to include terms that aimed to delegitimize the election result.

Ciaran O'Connor, a disinformation analyst with the London-based think tank Institute for Strategic Dialogue, told ABC that keeping these type of measures in place may have prevented extremism on Jan. 6 that was inflamed by a "dangerous mix of disinformation and conspiracy theories."

"This action was entirely irresponsible and illustrative of wider failings in Facebook in wrongly prioritizing platform growth over safety," he said.

Internal comments from employees blamed the company for the Jan. 6 insurrection, according to NBC News.

"Im struggling to match my values to my employment here," an employee wrote in a comment. "I came here hoping to effect change and improve society, but all Ive seen is atrophy and abdication of responsibility."

"How are we expected to ignore when leadership overrides research-based policy decisions to better serve people like the groups inciting violence today," another employee asked.

The comments show challenges to company leadership about Facebook's problems in abetting violent polarization and encouraging the spread of misinformation not getting fixed, despite the companys investments and promises, NBC reported.

Mark Poepsel, Ph.D, an associate professor with SIU Edwardsville, said that Facebook designs products to get people to spend as much time on them as possible. He said that Facebook claims not to do that, but the release of the documents show that the company was lying.

"The average person should understand that the Facebook Papers reports indicate that a lot of what we perceive as being wrong with Facebook is not an accident but by design," Poepsel wrote in an email. "It's not just that Facebook is sitting by and allowing people to mistreat each other, which itself might be questionable ethically but which might be considered standard business practice for anyone operating a place where people speak openly online. It's more than free speech. Facebook actually added to the harm in many cases because it prioritizes online engagement and the advertising money that comes from it over public safety."

However, Poepsel wrote that it would be "difficult, challenging and risky" to police Facebook and other social media platforms from the outside, but these documents show that Facebook is not doing a great job policing themselves internally, although they do know how to do better.

"Facebook knows it should identify and block hate speech, the obvious worst of the worst, but Mark Zuckerberg was shown to have lied about how much, percentage-wise Facebook actually stops," Poepsel wrote. "You don't need 100% agreement about hate speech to stop it. We have mostly stopped obscenity from public airwaves, newspapers, and the internet in the USA even though people have a hard time agreeing what it is. Some things are just so obviously horrible they get deleted instantly. You could do the same thing with words that you do with images. Facebook is choosing not to."

Facebook has had good and bad impacts, Poepsel wrote.

"It has fomented democratic revolutions but also oppressive regimes and even genocide," Poepsel said. "Where they should be held accountable is where they have had opportunities to curtail the most harmful acts and words and chosen to favor engagement, time spent online and on its apps, in favor of people's safety. It's not all good or all bad, but it's also not a passive platform. It's not the open airwaves or a judgment-free internet service provider, not a common carrier, as they say. It's a kind of publisher, platform, and information carrier all in one.

"We don't know how to regulate it. We have to admit that. But even having said that, Facebook could do better. They could apply basic business ethics and do better by society because it's not about growth and success; It's about rate of growth."

Poepsel wrote that Facebook opens doors for similar apps and services to capture attention and information that is being run out of nations that have been strategic adversaries of the U.S. That makes it a matter of national security, even without getting into the role Facebook played in the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol. It's not just a "global friendship kumbaya issue," Poepsel wrote.

Facebook will likely do a lot of messaging, likely change its name, as it currently plans to do, but change as little as possible with regard to garnering and holding onto audience because that's how it makes a lot of its money, Poepsel wrote.

"The release of these types of documents is important because they show an unvarnished presentation of facts," Poepsel wrote. "These are treated as facts by Facebook based on data gathered by Facebook. Facebook's leaders are not denying that these are real issues. They are not denying that they discussed these and that these were points of contention, many of the issues raised in them, internally within the company among its own leaders. All Facebook can say is that these are cherry-picked. But of course journalists are going to pick the interesting and controversial stuff.

"Society has no need for an 'everything's okay' alarm, to reference old school Simpsons episodes," Poepsel continued. "Journalists are here to tell us what is or what may be wrong and to let us think about if we want to change things. These documents help us to do that. We wouldn't be having this national conversation if we only went by what Zuckerberg has said in congressional hearings."

According to published reports, angry responses on Facebook made content more valuable, meaning that reactions on Facebook were weighted differently. There's evidence that suggests incendiary content was privileged on the platform, a sophisticated coding choice people at Facebook had to make, Poepsel wrote.

"We also know that Facebook has a hard time containing conspiracy theories even when they try. This is not to say that they should not try, but it does not bode well for the future of digital communications," Poepsel wrote.

Poepsel wrote that each hour spent on open social media platforms where vitriol and violence are valued more than polite speech, like this release of internal documents shows Facebook may do, should be balanced with an hour of talking to people or reading something in the media that individuals acknowledge is subject to gatekeeping, but by gatekeepers that person trusts.

"Not all gatekeeping is bad, but I don't think we're going to successfully gatekeep the internet," Poepsel wrote. "It's not a question of the horse being out of the barn. It's a question of should we bother building barns for the internet when everyone's a mustang and the only way to make money out there is to get large enough herds to follow you that someone will pay you money to try to reach those wild horses."
To the editor:

The 10th mobile food pantry of the Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network of this year was hosted on Wednesday, Oct. 13 in the parking lot of the United Steelworkers Hall located on James Savage Road just off of Waldo Road in Midland. The giveaway of 19,819 pounds of free food was funded by the Central Michigan Central Labor Council members who have provided a food giveaway each year since 2015.

Our 27 volunteers, including six students of Alpha Gamma Delta sorority at Northwood University, served 111 families (262 individuals). Food purchased from the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan included frozen meat, boxes of assorted vegetables, cabbage, potatoes, pinto beans, apples, canned pears, pumpkins, breads, cereals, milk and assorted beverages. Another upcoming food giveaway is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 2 in the parking lot of Midland High School on Eastlawn Drive in Midland.

The network is very grateful for the many donors who give food, money and time toward the network's mission of "Always food in every home." Midland County residents in (financial) need of food during the year may dial 211 and request the Midland County Emergency Food Pantry Network for food assistance or may dial the network directly at 989-486-9393 and press 1 to leave a message.

SALLY ANN SUTTON

Midland County EFPN
Director of Content and Operations

Spencer McKee is OutThere Colorado's Director of Content and Operations. In his spare time, Spencer loves to hike, rock climb, and trail run. He's on a mission to summit all 58 of Colorado's fourteeners and has already climbed more than half.
Paducah, KY (42003)

Today

Partly cloudy this morning, then becoming cloudy during the afternoon. High 58F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Considerable cloudiness. Occasional rain showers after midnight. Low 43F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 40%.
Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Libyan deputy minister of Foreign Affairs for International Cooperation and Organizations, Omar Ketti, on Monday chaired the first preparatory meeting towards the International Mediterranean Conference on the Role of the Private Sector in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals to be held on 1 November in Tunis
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Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has said that the government intends to buy back Budapest Liszt Ferenc International Airport.

If reacquired by the state, the airport would undergo significant developments that would increase its value, and the overall value to the region.

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Orban said, It is only right if our sole major international airport is in Hungarian ownership, so buying it back is the correct thing to do and the economy is strong enough for us to do that, adding that the purchase could be concluded at any moment.

Local reports have estimated the bid to be in the region of 4bn (US$4.6bn).

Budapest Airport is majority owned by Canadas Public Sector Pension Investment Board, which reportedly holds a 55% stake through its German-based airport investor AviAlliance.

Commenting on the approach, a spokesperson for AviAlliance said, A consortium led by the Hungarian government has announced its intention to acquire Budapest Airport. The consortium has submitted a revised non-binding offer to the shareholders of Budapest Airport. The shareholders did not initiate the purchase offer. In the interest of our fellow shareholders, we are nevertheless obliged to review the offer.

AviAlliance is a long-term oriented investor whose interest is the sustainable development of the airport and the region. Like all European airports, Budapest Airport was severely affected by Covid-19. Nevertheless, we continued our investments in the airports infrastructure and operations during the pandemic as we believe in its rapid economic recovery and long-term growth potential.
(Click on image to Greatly Enlarge)

Following the release of the immersive Apple TV+ Original podcast "The Line" earlier this year, Apple TV+ today unveiled the trailer a new four-part, limited documentary series by the same title that examines the unprecedented 2018 case in which a US Navy SEAL platoon accused its chief, Eddie Gallagher, of war crimes. All four parts of "The Line" will premiere globally on November 19, 2021 on Apple TV+.

Featuring exclusive interviews with Gallagher, his wife Andrea, members of SEAL Team 7 who accused their chief, journalist Dave Philipps, former Secretary of the Navy Richard Spencer and more, the docuseries is a raw look inside Seal Team 7 and the deployment that pushed the bonds of brotherhood to their limits.

Told through first-person accounts and never-before-seen footage gathered by the SEALs during their controversial tour in Mosul, Iraq, "The Line" hunts for the truth behind the events that led to one of the highest profile war crimes trial in recent history, revealing a nation deeply divided over how we fight war.

Hailing from Academy Award-winning Jigsaw Productions, the team behind the Apple TV+ Original podcast, "The Line" is produced by Doug Shultz, executive produced by showrunner Brad Hebert, Alex Gibney, Jeff Zimbalist, Michael Zimbalist, Stacey Offman and Richard Perello. Doug Shultz and Jeff Zimbalist serve as directors on the series.

All episodes of Apple TV+ Original podcast The Line are currently available on Apple Podcasts, where available.

Archive: Apple TV News
Samsung Display has placed orders for equipment to expand its new mobile OLED production line that will use Gen 6 (1500x1850mm) substrates to manufacture small OLED panels that will be used in smartphones.

Samsung's lines are being upgraded to add processes that can have the OLED panels support Y-OCTA touch technology and low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) thin-film transistor (TFT) technology. The expansion will cost approximately US$857 million.

Samsung Displays largest customer Apple applied LTPO OLED panels in its iPhone 13 Pro models for the first time this year. It is clear that Samsung's expansion is preparing to supply Apple with more LTPO OLED panels in 2022-2023.

Samsung's A4E line will be relatively expensive to built as it doesnt have deposition equipment, it has kits for LTPO TFF, which costs more than those for low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) TFT.

LTPO changes the switching TFT to oxide material to reduce power consumption compared to LTPS. LTPO has around three to four more layers because of this, which requires additional production steps.

Cupertino is expected to ship even more iPhones next year, and Samsung Display is preparing to meet this surge. Once A4E is complete, Samsung Display will secure a production capacity of 165,000 substrates per month by 2023.
Apple has so far avoided the worst outcome in its U.S. legal battle with Epic Games, but its antitrust woes remain. In the last several months the U.S. Department of Justice has accelerated its two-year-old antitrust probe of the iPhone maker, according to two people with knowledge of the investigation, increasing the likelihood of a lawsuit.

Since summer, there has been a flurry of activity on the investigation as DOJ lawyers have asked Apple and its customers and competitors questions about how the company maintains its strict control over the iPhone, the people said. That includes a new round of subpoenas sent to Apples business partners over the summer, according to sources.

The Information claims that the investigation is very "likely to lead to a lawsuit, though the specifics are still in flux," according to the report.

On another legal front, Apple's patent battle with Corephotonics, dating back to 2018 over dual lens cameras, went Apple's way today. The U.S. Court of Appeals has affirmed a previous Patent and Trademark Office decision in a patent lawsuit against Apple, handing the Cupertino tech giant a win, according to AppleInsider.

Corephotonics had stated that Apple infringed on their "Miniature Telephoto lens assembly." With the ruling going their way, Apple may decide to proceed with a folded lens of their own design while working with LG Innotek.

Last week we reported that LG had successfully nullified Corephotonics folded camera patent in South Korea by the local patent board in August which paved the way for LG Innotek to work with Apple on their next-gen camera lens.
At a Glance Experts Rating Pros Flexible pricing options

Fine speeds

Works with Netflix Cons Privacy policy is fine, but could be better Our Verdict VPN Unlimited offers flexible pricing, it works with Netflix, and has usable speeds. Privacy-conscious users may not like some of the minimal data the company collects, but overall its a good service.

Best Prices Today

Retailer Price Delivery KeepSolid $60.00 View

VPN Unlimited in brief:

Number of country locations: 58

58 Cost: $60 (annual)

$60 (annual) VPN protocol: IKEv2/WireGuard

IKEv2/WireGuard Data encryption: AES-256/ChaCha20

AES-256/ChaCha20 Data authentication: SHA-256/Poly1305

SHA-256/Poly1305 Handshake: MODP-2048/Noise Protocol (IK Pattern)

KeepSolids VPN Unlimited hasnt changed much since we last looked at it (though it does have WireGuard now), but whats changed is everything around it. KeepSolid still wants to sell VPN Unlimited as one part of a larger service, but those accompanying bits are much more focused on security now, with add-on options such as a password manager, DNS firewall, and a Smart DNS service for bypassing geographic restrictions on set-top boxes and other devices.

VPN Unlimited for Windows 10. IDG

Note: This review is part of our best VPNs roundup. Go there for details about competing products and how we tested them.

Features and services

VPN Unlimited offers two types of apps: a traditional desktop app and a Windows Store app. Between the two, Im partial to the Windows Store app. Its easier to navigate, and it looks better. When you first open the Windows 10 app youre greeted with a world map showing your location as well as the potential connection points for the VPN. The map isnt interactive, but purely informational, showing your home IP address and the IP address youre connecting to, with an arc drawn between the two points.

To select a server, you can either hit the Servers menu option in the left rail, or click on the current-location tile at the bottom of the main screen. VPN Unlimited offers 58 country options, as well as several streaming-specific servers for BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Netflix U.S., HBO Now, Hulu, and Sony Crackle.

One thing I miss that the app no longer displays is the workload of the current server. Instead, it now displays a set of reception bars similar to whats on your cell phone to give you an idea of how usable each server is from your location. The traditional desktop app also does this now. Its fine, but I did prefer the old method.

VPN Unlimited allows torrents on specific servers that are marked as such in the list. The server section also has tabs for favorites, and all the streaming options.

VPN Unlimited also now lets you choose your own protocol. By default itll choose whatever works, but if youd like to specify, the VPN supports WireGuard, IKEv2, OpenVPN, and the companys own KeepSolid Wise.

IDG

Thats about it for features. The rest of the apps menu options are for renewing your subscription, getting add-on purchases such as a DNS firewall, a password manager, and Smart DNS, and managing your account. The settings section is also pretty light in the Windows 10 app, with the option to use the light or dark mode, and an option to run the app on startup. Theres no internet kill switch in the Windows 10 version, but if you need that, its in the traditional desktop app.

VPN Unlimited is priced at $60 a year for five devices, $140 for a lifetime subscription (at this writing), or $10 per month on a month-to-month plan. KeepSolid also offers the aforementioned extras (Passwarden, DNS Firewall, and SmartDNS) for an extra $1.66 per month.

Performance

VPN Unlimiteds speeds dropped quite a bit since the last time we tested it. In our tests, we got just 19.81 percent of the base speed across five locations over multiple testing days. Thats quite a drop from the 35 percent we saw last time. Scores were brought down by lower performance in Australia and Japan, as well as some inconsistent speeds in the U.S. and Germany.

Overall, the speeds were usable for streaming and other uses.

Privacy, anonymity, and trust

KeepSolids privacy policy says it wont track your online activity including browsing history, connection times, metadata, downloads, server usage, or data content. It also doesnt store IP addresses.

Still, the company does collect some information from VPN users, the company said, including your device ID, operating system and its version, number of connected devices (to keep your account within its limits), and your email address.

KeepSolid accepts payments via Bitpay, credit card, Google Pay, PayPal, and Paymentwall. The company CEO is Vasiliy Ivanov, and the companys official business address is in New York City, though most of its team and leadership are based in the Ukraine.

Conclusion

VPN Unlimited offers usable speeds, and the app is easy to use. Id still like to see that map become interactive, but thats not a deal killer.

Its privacy policy is good, with minimal data collection. For anonymity it would probably be better if the company didnt collect your device type or require you to log in with an email address. But account sign-in is pretty much the standard for VPNs.

Editors note: Because online services are often iterative, gaining new features and performance improvements over time, this review is subject to change in order to accurately reflect the current state of the service. Any changes to text or our final review verdict will be noted at the top of this article.
A shea nut processing factory (Alkoh Shea) has been commissioned by the McDan Foundation and handed over to Mr. Alhassan Hamza Akoligo, a young entrepreneur at Nasia a community in the West Mamprusi Municipality in the North East Region.



The factory, constructed under the auspices by the McDan Foundation is to boost the efforts of women in the community to increase production and add value to their shea nuts.



This vision by the McDan Foundation came to light when Mr. Alhassan Hamza Akoligo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Alkoh Shea Butter took part in the McDan Entrepreneurship Challenge season one and declared as the winner.



Speaking at the commissioning ceremony Dr. Daniel Mckorely who is the founder of the Foundation and Chairman of the McDan Group of Companies in a short remark stressed that the McDan Foundation also walk the talk by helping the needy and building billionaires in various communities in the country.



According to him Mr. Alhassan Hamza Akoligo is a true patriot because he has promised to empower women in Nasia to increase the shea business chain as their main economic venture.



He said women empowerment was key to accelerating the achievement of inclusive national development and encouraged the women to make maximum use of the facility to increase income generation and improve on their livelihoods.



Dr. Mckorely noted that the shea processing factory would encourage members of the community to desist from destroying the shea trees for charcoal and other activities.



He pointed out that Mr. Alhassan Hamza Akoligo has been mentored on how to run the business adding that most of the challenge is the person behind the business



Dr. Mckorely who was happy about thaae shea nut business then supported Alkoh Shea Butter with a Truck to help in supply and gathering of raw materials for production.



Chief of Nasia, Mazurana Abdullah Mahami, commended the McDan Foundation for helping the son from their soil to establish a factory to help kick away poverty from the community.



He continued that the elders including he the Chief will make sure the factory achieve its aim stressing that women will no longer cut down trees for living but rather focus on skill training to get some for living.



Mr. Alhassan Hamza Akoligo, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Alkoh Shea Butter who was excited by the gesture done him by the McDan Foundation promised to manage the factory for it to get branches in other regions across the country.



He called on the younger generation to remain focus on entrepreneurship and never to lose hope in the field of job creation.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone Ghana, Patricia Obo-Nai, has won the Woman of the Year Honour at the 6th edition of the EMY Africa Awards held at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra.



Patricia was among 30 outstanding personalities from diverse fields of endeavour who were celebrated at the awards ceremony for their remarkable commitment to societal progress.



The Woman of the Year honorary award, which is the only female category in the all-male awards, celebrates a distinguished woman who is an inspiration to many people, has broken new ground or old barriers, and has contributed to the community and nation through her professional or volunteer leadership.



Her citation reads, "You have contributed immensely to the telecommunications industry and continue to serve as a shining example to budding professionals. As the first Ghanaian CEO of Vodafone Ghana, you have championed various innovations in the industry, more so during the Covid-19 pandemic. Our board of patrons, faculty and secretariat find you worthy of this honour, considering all your achievements and your impact in growing the telecommunication sector".



Receiving the award, Madam Obo-Nai expressed her profound gratitude to the organisers of the event.



"I thank God for his grace, thank you so much Team Vodafone Ghana, thank you to my family and thank you EMY Africa for doing me this honour. Im really humbled and very grateful. When women win, we all win!'' she said.



This recognition is the latest among a long list of local and global honours that Vodafone Ghana CEO, Patricia Obo-Nai, has amassed since she took over the reins of Vodafone Ghana in April 2019. Her remarkable and transformational leadership has earned her the most awarded CEO in this short period.



Her list of awards includes Africas Most Respected CEO in Telecoms (Dubai, UAE), Telecom CEO of the Year (Ghana Information Technology and Telecom Awards), Telecom Personality of the Year (National Communications Awards), HR- Oriented CEO of the Year (HR Focus Awards), STEM Leadership Award (Sustainability and Social Impact Awards), Woman of the Year - Telecoms (Glitz Africa Awards) , Women Leadership Excellence Award (CEO Summit and Awards), and Young Professional Role Model in Women Executive Leadership Award, Woman of Excellence Awards  Telecom (Ghana Women of Excellence Awards), and STEM Woman Award (STEM Woman Project).

Source: Peacefmonline.com/ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Deputy Minister of Education, Hon. Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, has expressed surprise about the ultimatum given by the Aflao Chief, Torgbui Adzonu-Gaga Fiti V to the Minister of Education to complete the E-Block Community Day Senior High School in Aflao.



According to him, the Akufo-Addo government has rather done well to move the E-Block project which started under former President John Mahama from 23.47 per cent completion stage to 96 per cent.



Explaining on Okay FMs 'Ade Akye Abia' Morning Show, Hon. Ntim Fordjour noted that the initial E-Block Community Day SHS project should have been 100 per cent completed within 18 months when the contract was handed over to the contractor, but only 23.47 per cent was completed at the end of the deadline of October 2016.



The Deputy Education Minister added that the 29 completed out of the 124 E-Block Community Day SHS does not represent even a quarter completion of the project as the NDC government under former President John Mahama did not commit funds to carry out the project to completion.



He, therefore, debunked the claim that the NPP government led by President Akufo-Addo has abandoned the E-Block Community Day SHS projects.



In the vision of President Akufo-Addo, he has decided to complete the existing E-Block projects while he starts other projects from the scratch. If the NDC government had the commitment to finish the Aflao E-Block, it should have been completed in October 2016 and handed over to the community, he noted.



 . . but the impression has been created that the NDC government reached 90 per cent completion of the project and the Akufo-Addo government has rather refused to do the little 10 per cent, where they are now issuing an ultimatum. It is not true, he indicated.



He, however, mentioned that the Chief of Aflao was aware of the stage of completion of the E-Block Community Day Senior High School under former President John Mahama before he left office; thus, it was not a fair comment for the Chief to give an ultimatum to the government that has completed 96 per cent but could not give the same ultimatum to the previous government that completed only 23.47 per cent.



The Chief of Aflao knows the completion stage of the E-Block under Mahama administration to be only 23.47 per cent before we took over and we have raised the project to 96 per cent. This is factual and the Chief cannot say he doesnt know this, he noted.



He, therefore, disclosed that it is part of the programme of the Ministry of Education to commission the Aflao E-Block Community Day Senior High School for the next academic year.

Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com









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The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Endpoint Homeopathic Clinic, Dr. Adu Boateng, has won the coveted Father of Modern Homeopathic Personality of the Year award at the just-ended African Health CEOs and Legends Award.



At the 10th African Health CEOs and Legends Awards 2021 held at the MJ Grand Hotel, East Legon in Accra, the renowned healthcare practitioner who is widely known for his contribution to the homeopathic and health sector came out tops of his contemporaries.



Dr. Adu Boatengs immense contribution and pivotal role played in bringing modern homeopathy to Ghana made him stand tall among his peers, hence the award.



As a pioneer, Dr. Adu Boateng has elevated the status of homeopathy in Ghana and beyond. Several doctors, under the auspices of Dr. Boateng have been trained in the field. Today, numerous homeopathic clinics have been established across the country, thanks to his efforts.



Dr. Adu Boateng is not just prominent for being the spear-header of modern homeopathy in Ghana but also widely known for his achievements in the field and the healthcare sector.



He has been conferred with a plethora of awards and accolades owing to his unwavering commitment, dedication, and tireless work as a distinguished healthcare practitioner.



Father of Modern Homeopathic Personality of the Year award



Some of the awards include Homeopathic CEO of the Year (2019), Pioneer in Homeopathic Treatment of the Year (2018), Most Outstanding Practitioner in Homeopathic Care of the Year, Best Practitioner in Homeopathic Treatment 2018)



Pleased to receive the award, Dr. Adu Boateng thanked the organizers for recognizing his works and the path he created years ago which has now cemented his status as a pioneer in the field of homeopathy in Ghana.



I am humbled to receive this prestigious award. Today, I feel honoured that the role I played in making sure alternative medicine is recognized and accepted nationwide as a form of treatment have yielded positive result, Dr. Boateng said. Im deeply appreciative to the organizers for recognizing my efforts.



Dr Boateng established Endpoint Homeopathic Clinic some 11 years ago. Today, it has become household name in the healthcare sector providing quality healthcare and unparalleled services; promoting and advancing the science of homeopathy.



As a forward-looking health delivery outlet, Endpoint Homeopathic Clinic continues to provide the very latest research-based homeopathic treatments with a service that is second to none. The clinic is committed to patient satisfaction as the primary driver of its healthcare delivery.

Source: ghanacelebrities.com









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A former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Mr Akwasi Opong-Fosu, has urged African countries to leverage their natural resources for infrastructural and technological development.



He said the age-old concept of receipts from royalties and taxes on the exploitation of the natural resources had not helped the cause of the continents infrastructure development.



Mr Opong-Fosu, who made the call at the 2021 UK-Africa Trade and Investment Conference in London, said the continents annual infrastructure needs of about $108 billion could be addressed if the natural resources for infrastructure strategy was adopted alongside tackling illegal financial flows.



The theme for the conference was: Enhancing UK-Africa Trade, Investment Relations and Boosting Business Value Chains.



Mr Opong-Fosu, who is also a former Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, and a former Minister of State at the Presidency, was invited to speak at the conference in his capacity as the President of Africa Growth Solutions, an independent Pan-African policy, research and advocacy organisation committed to promoting Africas global competitiveness, especially in trade and investment.



Speaking on the topic, Africa Economic Growth Potential: Challenges and Opportunities, the former minister said for any renewed interest in Africa to be genuine and inure to the benefit of the people, infrastructure was key.

All, these, he said, demanded visionary leaders.



Mr Opong-Fosu said Chinas new model of economic partnership with Africa  Natural Resources for Infrastructure  was a better option to the existing payment of royalties and taxes.



Chinese model



Explaining, Mr Opong-Fosu said it involved African countries giving out natural resource for infrastructure bilateral agreements without associated conditionalities.



In comparison with existing agreements with the continents long-standing development partners which are based on payments of royalties and taxes, this model is now considered more favourable to Africa, he stated.



Mr Opong-Fosu, however, noted the major concerns raised, mostly by Africas other development partners with respect to the Chinese model, which included attempts by China to recolonise Africa so as to have access to its natural resource, and pushing Africa back into the debt trap of the 1970s and 1980s.



However, doubts have been cast on these assertions on the grounds that the development partners have had a long history of natural resource exploitation in Africa with little to show by way of any significant contributions to the continents infrastructure and overall development as is being witnessed now within the context of the Chinese model, he stated.



Trade



Mr Opong-Fosu said the Africa Continental Free Trade Area promised a new hope for the continents development.



He urged African countries to critically examine the reasons behind the renewed and heightened interest in trade and investment in Africa by the developed countries, particularly the United Kingdom and what promise that renewed interest held for Africas economic growth and transformation agenda.



In addition, African leaders should examine what new and equitable partnerships and trade agreements will be introduced to integrate Africa into the global trade and investment value chain



Priorities



Posing the question : What should be the priorities for UK-Africa economic relations/partnerships, the former minister said, It is suggested that to show a serious commitment to the development of Africa, the development partners, together with Africa must of necessity and urgently develop a Marshall Plan on the lines that was developed for the reconstruction of Europe after the Second World War.



 Just as was done for Europe, any such plan should be devoid of pre-conditions, he said.









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 Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs has thrown its weight behind security agencies, charging them to deal with persons who stir up trouble in the region in the name of chieftaincy.



It said such people should be dealt with according to the Chieftaincy Act 759 of 2008 since their actions could not be chieftaincy offences but criminal offences.



It will interest you to know that aside from people filing petitions to challenge the status of chiefs, these same people go round installing rival chiefs, a situation which is a recipe for disaster.



We urge the security personnel to deal with persons who will foment trouble in the region in the name of chieftaincy. There are no chieftaincy offences but criminal offences and such people should be dealt with according to the Chieftaincy Act 759 of 2008, Nii Welentsi stressed.



Chieftaincy cases



The Vice-President of the House, King Odaifio Welentsi III, who made the call in an address to welcome President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo to the house at Dodowa last Saturday, pointed out that the house was currently faced with 26 chieftaincy cases out of which 10 were resolved last year.



The situation, he explained, was affecting the effective judicial and administrative work of the house because only six out of the 13 traditional areas were currently represented in the house.

Nii Welentsi said the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs was becoming non-functional due to lack of members and described the situation as one that made the running of the house difficult.



He was, however, grateful to the security heads for their role in maintaining the peace in the region in spite of its "numerous chieftaincy issues.



King Welentsi thanked President Akufo-Addo for his commitment towards the Free Senior High School (FSHS) which, according to the House of Chiefs, had taken many brilliant, needy students off the streets.



He said the FSHS policy would change the phase of the society and the next generation.



He futher asked that Nation Builders Corps (NABCO) trainees be absolved into the various sectors as permanent staff.



Change of name



Nii Welentsi, on behalf of the Regional House of Chiefs, also reiterated its call to change the name of the region from Greater Accra to Ga Dangme Region to reflect the views, status and aspirations of the people.



The house also declared its stance on the subject of the activities of people indulging in same sex marriage and said "as fathers of the land we have monitored the social and public discourse and we want to add our voice that this practice will not be entertained or tolerated among the people.



Mr President, all eyes are looking up to you for you to do the needful to help save humanity, it added.

The house further asked that works on the eastern corridor road be enhanced.



President tour



The visit to the Greater Accra Regional House of Chiefs last Saturday by President Akufo-Addo was the last lap of his nationwide working tour.



The President had just completed a visit to the Central Region and began a three-day tour of the Greater Accra Region.



It has become the habit of President Akufo-Addo to visit parts of the country to know how the business of government was going and also listen to the people about the governance of the country.



He has so far toured 15 regions this year.



Peace and stability



President Akufo-Addo urged the traditional leaders to expedite action on resolving the various chieftaincy cases, saying the resolution of chieftaincy matters contributed to the peace and stability of the country.



He assured the house that the government would do its part to facilitate that process to make it possible for the full complement of the house.



The President also used the opportunity to thank the people of the Greater Accra Region for their support for him and his political party during the last elections albeit some setbacks but said with their support it would be corrected in 2024.



On the matter of the change of name from Greater Accra to Ga Dangme Region, President Akufo-Addo said it would be considered and assured the chiefs that he would soon make his response known to them.



He debunked the assertion that work had halted on the eastern corridor road and said considerable advances had been made to the road since he assumed office. The President, therefore, assured the chiefs that the road would be completed before the end of his tenure.



Responding to the issue of the LGBTQ+, President Akufo-Addo expressed the hope that Parliament would deal with it in a satisfactory way.



President Akufo-Addo also visited the construction site of the interchange at the Nungua barrier which is part of the Accra Intelligent Traffic Management Project to acquaint himself with the progress of work.

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 lead promoter of the Promotion of Proper Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021, Sam Nartey George, has spoken about the triple impact of his role in championing the bill on his young family.



According to the Ningo Prampram MP, whiles he is used to threats and other acts of sabotage due to his political trajectory, he is especially concerned about how his family is affected with recent events.



In an interview with Bridget Otoo on the One On One show that aired on October 25, 2021, Sam George said his kids were still trying to come to terms especially with the heightened security around them.



It (championing the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill)comes at a huge cost. It comes at huge physical, spiritual cost, not just to me but to my family as well. And as I said to someone on another platform, when this bill is passed and we are done with it, maybe one day I will talk about the real cost of this bill to myself and to my family.



I dont have a problem with me, per se, when I decided to take up this battle I knew that it was going to come at a cost but to my family there is a lot of psychological cost to it, to them; there is also the heightened need for security around them (especially) for a very young family, he said.



He said as laid back as his family was and as tough-skinned politically as he has become, the rapid changes his family has had to make because of the Bill are things that weighed heavily on him.



My family is just like me, very laid back, we like to step out and do our things as normal and the need for protocol around some of the things you did that you cant do now.



Increased security which is something the kids are trying to wrap their heads around and all of that, and its effect on them psychologically are some of the things that for me, are things that weigh heavily on me, he added.



Promoters of the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill



The LGBTQ+ Bill before Parliament is titled: "The Promotion of Proper Sexual Rights and Ghanaian Family Values Bill 2021." It is a Private Members' Bill sponsored by a bipartisan group of lawmakers.



The eight MPs who sponsored the Bill are Sam Nartey George (MP, Ningo Prampram), Emmanuel Bedzrah (MP, Ho West) Della Adjoa Sowah (MP, Kpando), John Ntim Fordjour (MP, Assin South)  the sole NPP MP sponsoring the Bill.



The remaining sponsors are Alhassan Sayibu Suhuyini (MP, Tamale North), Helen Adjoa Ntoso (MP, Krachi West), Rita Naa Odoley Sowah (MP, La Dadekotopon) and Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor (MP, South Dayi).



Ghanas pro-gay collective



A group of 18 academicians and human rights defenders have voiced strong opposition to the bill before Parliament, which is seeking to extensively criminalize the activities of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, LGBTQ+.



The group submitted a memorandum to Parliament seeking that the bill be rejected because it was largely unconstitutional and infringed on basic human rights.



Members of Parliament behind the bill, led by Ningo Prampram MP Sam Nartey George, have rubbished the memorandum and asserted that the bill will be passed into law because it has the support of the wider Ghanaian populace.













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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Member of Parliament (MP) for Madina Constituency Francis-Xavier Sosu on Monday, October 25 escaped police arrest as he finished addressing protesters at Ayi Mensah.



The National Democratic Congress (NDC) MP had led some of his constituents to embark on a demonstration against deplorable roads in his constituency.



The demonstration started peacefully at Danfa around 6:00am but later saw demonstrators burning tyres and mounting roadblocks on the Ayi Mensah-Danfa Road. This action by the residents led to reinforcement from the police, whose Formed Police Unit (FPU) rushed to the scene with combat vehicles.



After he addressed the demonstrators, reiterating the power of the people over people in power, the MP came under attack from the police, who attempted to pick him up.



There was commotion as a result of the attempted arrest.



The demonstrating residents, however, resisted the police and vowed to fight back if their representative in Parliament is arrested.



The police then arrested one of the opinion leaders. He is said to be a chief of the area.









Source: 3news.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 Pastor, Stephen Kwesi Appiah aka Jesus Ahuofe of the New Life Kingdom Chapel, who prophesied Shatta Wales shooting incident has been granted bail.



He has been charged for causing fear and panic with his prediction of a shooting incident involving dancehall artiste, Shatta Wale on October 18, 2021.



An Accra Circuit Court on Monday morning granted him bail in the sum of GH100,000.



Graphic Online;s Justice Agbenorsi who was in the courtroom reports that the pastor is also to provide three sureties as part of the bail conditions.



As part of the bail conditions, the sureties must be gainfully employed.



He is to report to police every Monday and Thursday.



The presiding judge, Ms Ellen Offei Ayeh adjourned the case to October 29, 2021.



Not guilty



Jesus Ahuofe of the New Life Kingdom Chapel, has been charged with causing fear and panic.



He has pleaded not guilty.



He first appeared before the Circuit Court on Thursday, October 21, 2021 and was remanded to re-appear on Monday, October 25.



Meanwhile, Shatta Wale, also known as Charles Nii Armah Mensah and three other accomplices, who were also remanded into police custody last week are expected to re-appear at the Accra Circuit Court Tuesday, October 26.



Shatta Wale has pleaded not guilty to the charge of publication of false news while Kojo Owusu Koranteng, Idris Yusif, and Eric Venator who have been charged with abetment in the publication of false news have also pleaded not guilty.

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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National Democratic Congress (NDC) Member of Parliament(MP) for South Dayi in the Volta Region, Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor has accused President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of blowing hot and cold regarding the LGBTQ+ discussions ongoing in the country.



According to him, President Akufo-Addo is not certain on his stance when it comes to the discussion on the activities of the LGBTQ+ community and their advocates in the country except to dance around it to stay safe.



Speaking on Okay FM's 'Ade Akye Abia' Morning Show, Hon. Dafeamekpor noted that Nana Akufo-Addo since becoming the President of the Republic of Ghana has never been able to state his position, whether, for or against the activities of the LGBTQ+ in the country.



"The President has not been able to state his position for or against ever since he became President. He said it will never happen under his watch, but has he spoken against what is happening under his watch? He has been blowing hot and cold. When he meets a group that does not support homosexuality then he will say it will not happen under his watch," he asserted.



He indicated that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP) majority members who were initially part of the crusaders of the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill have been swayed away with the exception of Hon. Rev. John Ntim Fordjour, Assin South Constituency MP.



"Initially, we were about 15 MPs who were behind the anti-LGBTQ+ Bill, but now, we have been reduced to 8 MPs. All of them were asked to go away and not to sign the bill, but we don't want to do politics with this," he pontificated.

Source: Daniel Adu Darko/Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has paid an emotional tribute to Hajia Mariama Bawumia, the departed mother of Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.



The glowing tribute, which was personally signed by Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene, described Hajia Mariama Bawumia as a matriarch, and also eulogised the Bawumias for the immense impact the family has made on Ghanaian politics, which the Asantehene said, will be felt for generations.



"As we idolize and eulogise great men and great leaders, we so often fail to acknowledge the role of the faithful woman behind the mounding of their mettle. But truly it is that behind every great man is the hand and the heart of a faithful and devoted woman. And to a few women that goes even greater honour of becoming the matriarch from whose impact on Ghanaian politics will be felt for generations.



On that roll of honour belongs Hajia Mariama Bawumia," the Asantehene wrote.



"She not only was the steady heart behind one of the titans of politics in the North during the most tumultuous periods of Ghanas history, her guidance and tutelage has produced a family whose impact on Ghanaian politics will be felt for generations," the Asantehene added, referring to the impact Dr. Bawumia's father made on Ghanaian politics.



Narrowing his gaze on the Vice President Dr. Bawumia, Otumfuo Osei Tutu praised the late Hajia Mariama Bawumia for "her guidance and tutelage which produced a son who today occupies the second highest position in the land, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Vice President of the Republic. produced."



Rounding up his tribute, the Asantehene expressed sadness that Hajia Mariama Bawumia won't be around to see what the future holds Dr. Bawumia.



"How sad that she will not be around to see what the future holds for her son, but indeed the matriarch can depart in response to the call of her maker creator in the knowledge that she has impacted upon her nation as few ever would in their lives and above all, that the nation will continue to enjoy the fruits of her endeavours for many generations to come."

Source: Tamimu Issah / [email protected]









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Members of Sudan's transitional government and other civilian leaders have been arrested amid reports of a military coup.



Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok is among those reported to have been put under house arrest by unidentified soldiers.

The army has not commented, but pro-democracy groups urged street protests.



Military and civilian leaders have been at odds since long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was overthrown two years ago and the transitional government set up.



It remains unclear who was behind the pre-dawn arrests.



A statement from the information ministry on Facebook said the detentions were carried out by "joint military forces" and those arrested were being held in "an unidentified location".



It said Mr Hamdok was being pressed to support a coup but was refusing to do so and he urged people to continue with peaceful protests to "defend the revolution".



The United States was "deeply alarmed" by the coup reports, its special envoy for the Horn of Africa, Jeffrey Feltman, said.



Witnesses have said that the internet is down in the capital, Khartoum, while images have appeared on social media showing angry crowds burning tyres in the streets.



The army and paramilitary have been deployed across the city, restricting the movement of civilians, a witness is quoted as saying by Reuters news agency.



Khartoum airport is now closed, and international flights are suspended.



Sudan's main pro-democracy group has called on its supporters to resist any military coup.



The military and civilian transitional authorities have ruled together since President Bashir was toppled after months of street protests in 2019.



A power-sharing deal between the military and a loose coalition of groups - the Forces for Freedom and Change (FFC) - had been agreed, launching the Sovereign Council.



It was to rule the country for another year - with the aim of holding elections and transitioning to civilian rule.

But the deal has always been fractious, with a large number of rival political groups - and divisions within the military too.



Tensions grew further after a coup attempt attributed to followers of Mr Bashir was foiled in September.

This month, opponents of Sudan's transition to democracy took to the streets of the capital, Khartoum, to call on the army to take control of the country.



Pro-democracy groups said it was an organised attempt by the military to retake power.



Last Thursday, tens of thousands of people demonstrated in Khartoum to show solidarity with the transitional government.



Support for the interim government has slumped in recent months as the country's economy has struggled.

Sudan has been unable to find a workable political system since independence in 1956 and has seen numerous coups and coup attempts.

Source: bbc









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The third meeting of the first session of the Eighth Parliament will commence tomorrow, October 26, 2021.

The House adjourned sine die on August 10, 2021.



The House will consider a number of bills that have already been laid in Parliament and referred to various committees for consideration and report.



They include the Promotion of Proper Human Sexuality and Ghanaian Family Values Bill, 2021, the Criminal Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2021 and the Office of the Special Prosecutor (Amendment) Bill, 2021.



The Promotion of Proper Human Sexuality and Ghanaian Family Values Bill is likely to shape proceedings on the floor of the House during the entire meeting.



The Private Members bill which was laid on August 3, 2021 seeks to criminalise the activities of lesbians, gays, bisexuals, transgender, queer and intersex (LGBTQI), as well as individuals and organisations that advocate or promote the act in the country when passed.



So far, both parties on each side of the aisle in Parliament have publicly thrown their weight behind the passage of the bill but agreed on the need for some amendments to be made in the bill to fine tune it ahead of passage.



Majority stance



On Wednesday, October 13, 2021, the Majority Leader, Mr Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, gave an assurance that Parliament would not disappoint Ghanaians in the consideration and passage of the bill that sought to criminalise LGBTQI+ activities in the country.



He said MPs were representatives of the people for which reason the citizenry should rest assured that Parliament would not turn its back on them.



Minoritys position



Just two days after the press conference by the Majority, the Minority caucus also held a similar conference on Friday, October 15, 2021 in Parliament, where the Minority Leader, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, stated that his side was resolutely opposed to the introduction, formalisation and legalisation of LGBTQI+ practices and rights in Ghana.



As representatives of the Ghanaian people, MPs have an obligation to protect the moral fibre of the Ghanaian society and promote the cohesion, unity and preserve Ghanas time-tested cultural practices and beliefs which have kept us together as one country, the Minority Leader, Mr Haruna Iddrisu, said.



External support for and against bill



Beyond the stance taken by both the Majority and the Minority in Parliament, there have been external parties who have also taken a stance for and against the bill.



On Thursday, October 7, this year, a group of high profile Christian leaders, with a common purpose, marched to Parliament House to submit memoranda expressing their unwavering support for the bill.



The leaders included the Presiding Bishop of the Methodist Church, Ghana, the Most Rev. Dr Paul Kwabena Boafo; the President of the Apostolic Church, Ghana, Apostle Dr Aaron Ami-Narh; the National Chairman of the Church of Pentecost, Apostle Eric Nyamekye, and Rev. Abraham Opoku Baffoe of the Christian Council of Ghana (CCG).



Group opposing bill



On October 3, this year, a group of 18 renowned legal practitioners, academics, researchers and civil society professionals expressed their misgivings against the LGBTQI+ bill in a 30-page memorandum to Parliament, and pledged to ensure it was not passed into law.



They described the bill as a flagrant violation of the 1992 Constitution as it sought to curtail freedom of expression and the media, the right to assemble and the right to join any association of ones choice.









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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Members of the female Caucus of the ECOWAS Parliament (ECOFEPA) have paid a courtesy call on the First Lady, Mrs Rebecca Akufo-Addo, to discuss matters related to womens empowerment and representation in all aspects of national development across the West Africa region.



Welcoming the delegation to her office in Accra, Mrs Akufo-Addo said she was elated that a female political group, made up of Members of Parliament (MPs) spanning the whole sub-region, had taken it upon themselves to work at empowering women, protecting the girl-child and ensuring that women representation at the upper echelon of political authority was increased.



She said the Rebecca Foundation had, since its establishment in 2017, engaged in several activities, which were in tandem with the objectives of ECOFEPA.



Collaboration



Just like ECOFEPA which is keen on securing the future of the girl-child by helping her access quality education, the Rebecca Foundation also has a mentorship programme geared at encouraging girls to stay in and complete their schooling while also encouraging and empowering those out of school to acquire some skills to be economically self-sufficient, she said.



The First Lady assured members of ECOFEPA of the continued support of her foundation to achieve their common goal of empowering women and girls.



She stated that with the two bodies sharing a common objective and their influence stretching to all corners in the sub-region, working together would definitely lead to the desired impact they all sought.



Acknowledgement



On behalf of her colleague Parliamentarians, the President of ECOFEPA, Ms Filomena de Fatima Ribeiro, expressed gratitude to Mrs Akufo-Addo for her cordial reception.



She said ECOFEPA recognised the good works of the Rebecca Foundation since its inception and the many successes it had chalked up in supporting women and the girl-child in the areas of education, skills acquisition, economic empowerment and maternal health.





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 Mahama is receiving flak for not showing up at the funeral ceremony of the late father of Yaw Boateng Gyan, a former National Organizer of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), last weekend. Opanyin Kofi Yeboah was laid to rest at his hometown, Odumase-Sunyani on Saturday, 23rd October 2021.



He was 105 years.



Dignitaries including former Finance Minister and Govenor of Bank of Ghana, Dr Kwabena Duffour, General Secretary of the NDC, Johnson Asiedu-Nketia and National Chairman Samuel Ofosu-Ampofo, were among guests who attended the funeral service. Some supporters of the NDC in the area said they were expecting to see Mr Mahama.



But the NDCs 2020 presidential candidate was absent at the burial ceremony. This has drawing condemnation from locals who questioned his absence and his perceived lack of empathy.



We heard the news he attended other events but did not deem it fit to attend the burial of one of the Generals who helped brought him to power in 2012, a local, Opanin told 3news.com on Tuesday October 26.



In his view, Mr Yaw Boateng Gyan as National Organiser was instrumental in the success of Mr Mahamas 2012 bid but the two has since fell out over issues concerning the direction of the party. This shows that he lacks empathy for the people who have stood with him in the time past, he added.



Meanwhile a source close to the former President in an interview with 3news.com asked whether Mr Mahama was invited to attend the ceremony.









Source: 3news.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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State Transport Corporation(STC) Managing Director, Nana Akomea, has backed the calls by the Electoral Commission (EC) that the Ghana Police Service should investigate Ex-President John Mahama's allegations of ballot stuffing against the Commission.



The EC has challenged the former President to provide evidence to validate his claims or otherwise.



EC Dares Mahama



During its ''Let the Citizen Know'' series aimed at providing an update on the 2020 elections, the EC stated; ''The Former President has said the EC thumb printed 1million ballots in favour of the president. This is untrue. This is a grave matter that undermines the credibility of our electoral process and should not be ignored. We call on him to provide evidence to support his claim."



The Commission has asked the Police to take up the matter saying ''this is not a matter to be ignored and we call on the Ghana Police Service to investigate this".



''The Transparency of our process makes it totally impossible for this to happen. At the polling stations, prior to the start of the elections, the empty ballot boxes are opened and displayed in the presence of everyone, and thereafter they are sealed. There are serial numbers on the ballot papers for each region and constituency. This is made known to the Agents before the elections. Our ballot papers also have security features, so any trace of new material will be clearly visible.



Again, at the end of the poll, the ballots cast are cross-checked against the voters who were verified and issued the ballot papers. This ensures that over-voting is detected immediately. Nationwide, we had no issue with over-voting at all our 38,622 polling stations except in Savelugu in the parliamentary election where there was one and I repeat one over-voting. The transparency of our processes from the beginning to the end makes this impossible. Ballot Stuffing cannot be done-it is impossible. We call on the Former President in the interest of our democracy to provide evidence of the stuffing of the ballot boxes by the EC," the Commission further argued.



John Mahama's claims



Former President John Dramani Mahama says if, given the opportunity to assess the performance of Electoral Commission Chairperson Jean Mensa from the 2020 general elections, he would score her an F.



The 2020 Presidential candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC) still holds the view that the EC boss and her outfit performed poorly.



"2020 was Ghanas worst election. If I was marking her, I would have given her an F. She is marking her own paper after the examination so she can give herself any mark she likes, the ex-president said in an interview as quoted on 3news.com.



John Dramani Mahama added, Tell me which election in Ghana was ballot papers printed yet one million ballot papers were found elsewhere . . . We didnt witness this under Dr. Kwadwo Afari-Gyan. She [Jean Mensa] knew there was ballot stuffing.



Mr. Mahamas latest swipe at Jean Mensa follows an address by the EC boss at the ECOWAS meeting in Winneba on Thursday, October 14, 2021.



Nana Akomea Slams Mahama



Nana Akomea has refuted the former President Mahama's claims stressing the EC cannot rig elections.



Echoing the words of Mr. Mahama about the EC's integrity during his tenure as President of the Republic, Nana Akomea emphatically stated; ''The Electoral Commission cannot alter the results for any candidate. It's not possible!''



To him, Mr. Mahama should avail himself for the Police investigations to establish the truth.



"Everybody must support them (EC). Even President Mahama should support them because he made such claims. So, if the Police conduct investigations, we will all know the truth. But for President Mahama to level allegations against the EC without any evidence is incomprehensible because, as a former President and Vice President, to accuse the Electoral Commission - the election referee - of this means you're ruining the integrity of the Electoral Commission of Ghana and the entire electoral process," he asserted.



"If he had sent it to court as part of his case and the court had ruled it out, that settles the matter. But he making this allegation outside the court, if we leave it hanging, how do we know the truth? So, there has to be some investigation - detailed investigation - for us to find out from him how it was possible to print an extra 1 million ballots thumbprinted for one candidate," the STC boss added.



Nana Akomea made these submissions on Peace FM's morning show ''Kokrokoo''.

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Chief Executive Officer of Media Excel, Kwasi Ernest, has advised Ghanaian celebrities to use the Shatta Wale and Medikal arrest as a case study to alter their habits.



According to him, celebrities are to portray a good character that will send a good signal to society.



"We're supposed to be role models, not hooligans," he sermonized.



He hoped that the two artistes - Shatta Wale and Medikal - will learn moral lessons from their trying experiences.



Kwasi Ernest also pleaded with the Justices who will hear the cases to ''temper justice with mercy because it doesn't look too good for Ghanaian celebrities''.







Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
Destiny has decided to smile on Shatta Wale while spending time in jail following his decision to fake a shooting incident.



Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy and Kofi Kinaata have been selected to be Baton bearers during the Queen of England s Baton relay which is set to arrive in Ghana soon.



According to the information which was posted on Twitter by the Ghana Olympics Committee, the Balon team will arrive in Ghana on Monday from 26th  28th October 2021.



The Baton will travel across the principal streets of Accra, Tema and Kumasi. The President of Ghana, Nana Addo will first receive it in a short ceremony.



Well, we hope Shatta Wale will be out of jail by then to join the relay race.



Checkout the full post on Twitter below;









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

Featured Video
A Niagara tour boat to the falls approaches the Horseshoe Falls in Niagara Falls, Ont. on Friday, July 16, 2021. A real estate report says Vancouver, Niagara Falls and Quebec City will continue to outperform other markets next year after benefiting during the pandemic from Canadians travelling within the country due to COVID-19 restrictions on foreign travel. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Peter Power
Ships continue to work to control a fire on board the MV Zim Kingston about eight kilometres from the shore in Victoria, B.C., on Monday, October 25, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito
Quebec is reporting 340 new cases of COVID-19 Tuesday and four additional deaths linked to the novel coronavirus. People walk by a sign outside a restaurant advising customers of the Quebec governments newly implemented Covid-19 vaccine passport in Montreal, Monday, Sept. 6, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes
A protester is given medical treatment following mass demonstrations a day after the military seized power in a move widely denounced by the international community, at a hospital in Berry, East Khartoum, Sudan, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. At least four people were killed and over 80 wounded when security forces opened fire on protesters, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee. Pro-democracy protesters took to the streets again Tuesday, blocking roads in the capital with makeshift barricades and burning tires. (AP Photo)
Victims Terry Blanchette and his daughter Hailey Dunbar-Blanchette are shown in this photo from Blanchette's Facebook page. The Alberta Court of Appeal has agreed to hear a sentencing appeal from a man who was found guilty of killing a father and his two-year-old daughter as well as a senior but a hearing date has been delayed indefinitely. Derek Saretzky's lawyer, Balfour Der, asked the top court for permission to argue the constitutionality of his client being sentenced in 2017 to three consecutive life sentences, which means he is ineligible for parole until he has served 75 years in prison. Saretzky was convicted of first-degree murder in the death of Hanne Meketech, 69, in September 2015 as well as the slayings of Terry Blanchette, who was 27, and his daughter Hailey Dunbar-Blanchette. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO-Facebook-Terry Blanchette
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President Joe Biden signed his $1 trillion infrastructure deal into law Monday on the White House lawn, hailing it as an example of what bipartisanship can achieve.
On October 23, Cambodia commemorated the 30-year anniversary of the Paris Peace Accords (PPA), which marked the official conclusion of the Cambodian-Vietnamese War.

The agreement was also heralded as bringing about the official end of Cambodias long civil war, though some have disputed that idea.

On the eve of the anniversary, about 20 women married to jailed politicians protested outside the French Embassy in Phnom Penh. As they called on authorities to respect the agreement, police responded harshly.

At another rally outside Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., some 200 participants called on Prime Minister Hun Sen to respect the peace agreement. Those demonstrators also asked the U.S. Congress to sanction Hun Sens government.

Still, some within Cambodia claim the commitments of the agreement have been realized  that includes the pro-government Khmer Times newspaper.

Some 30 years later, government officials, scholars and ordinary Cambodians have looked back and expressed their views about how the spirit of the PPA has been fulfilled and translated into actions to ensure peace and democracy in Cambodia, the newspaper claimed.

It cited government spokesman Phay Siphan, who asserted that peace has been maintained under the wise leadership of (Prime Minister Hun Sen).

In other words, we have given power to the people, but not in a way to encourage people to demonstrate and curse the government on the streets, Phay Siphan said.

That leaves a false impression, however, because the agreements promises of pluralism and true democracy are not the reality in Cambodia today.

True, the agreement largely marked the end to decades of conflict. But under Hun Sen, human rights commitments in the PPA have languished.

The Paris Peace Agreements addressed both the content of Cambodias constitution and how it would be drafted. Annex Five, Principles for a New Constitution for Cambodia, says:

The constitution will state that Cambodia will follow a system of liberal democracy, on the basis of pluralism. It will provide for periodic and genuine elections.

It will provide for the right to vote and to be elected by universal and equal suffrage. It will provide for voting by secret ballot, with a requirement that electoral procedures provide a full and fair opportunity to organize and participate in the electoral process.

General elections conducted under the auspices of the United Nations were carried out in 1993. The run-up to that vote was fraught with political violence.

Still, 20 political parties participated, the elections were held in line with the constitution and the United Nations endorsed the results.

In analysis for the BBC in 2018, Kevin Ponniah wrote that after rejecting the election results, Hun Sen and his Cambodian People's Party (CPP) would manage to strong-arm their way into a coalition government, using the pretext of a secessionist movement in the east of the country.

After a shaky coalition government formed, Hun Sen ousted his coalition partner in what is sometimes described as the 1997 Cambodian coup detat.

His CPP would win elections the following year and never lose an election again.

In 2017 local elections, the opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) captured approximately 44% of the vote, despite conditions deemed hostile to free speech and genuine political participation by New-York based Human Rights Watch.

Soon thereafter, CNRP leader Kem Sokha was arrested on treason charges, while the Supreme Court of Cambodia ruled to dissolve the CNRP in November 2017, effectively leaving Cambodia a one-party state and in conflict with the PPA.

"Dissolving the CNRP is against the Peace Accords democracy pillar, which is more or less an international peace treaty, Sorpong Peou, a professor in the politics and public administration at Torontos Ryerson University, told Al Jazeera.

The United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention said Kem Sokhas prosecution had clearly resulted from the exercise of his right to take part in the government of his country and his right to freedom of expression and opinion, in violation of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which the PPA called on Cambodia to uphold.

Charles Santiago, chairperson of the Parliamentarians for Human Rights at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, called the dissolution of the CNRP the final nail in the coffin for Cambodian democracy.

Mass arrests and violence against CNRP members followed. And with virtually no opposition, the CCP won a landslide in parliamentary elections of July 2018.

The countrys high court has become a rubber stamp, widely known to be under the control of Hun Sen, according to the United Kingdoms Guardian newspaper.

A 2020 U.S. State Department report echoed the theme, stating that the constitution provides for an independent judiciary, but the government did not respect judicial independence, exerting extensive control over the courts.

Regarding the courts and their role as a venue to protect ordinary Cambodians, the State Department found there was impunity for government officials and family members for human rights abuses.

Regular assaults on those affiliated with the CNRP go unpunished  the same for environmental and labor activists, who face regular persecution.

Earlier this month, U.N. human rights chief Michelle Bachelet expressed deep concern over the impunity for attacks against political activists and human rights defenders in Cambodia.

She noted a deterioration of civil and democratic space in the country, with a newly enacted COVID-19 law leading to the curtailment of human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Local and international rights groups have routinely reported on abuses, including a raft of measures to curtail free speech online and off.

In September, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Cambodia Democracy Act of 2021, which directs the President (Joe Biden) to impose sanctions on individuals responsible for acts to undermine democracy in Cambodia, including acts that constituted serious human rights violations.

U.S. Congressman Alan Lowenthal tied that bill to Cambodias failures to live up to its commitments under the PPA.

Despite repeated actions taken by both the United States and the international community, the authoritarian regime of Prime Minister Hun Sen continues to reject the democratic promises and processes he agreed to in the 1991 Paris Peace Accords, Lowenthal said.

From shuttering or co-opting the free press, to banishing political opponents, to eliminating free and fair elections and then repeatedly declaring himself the peoples choice, the Hun Sen regime continues to do everything in its power to destroy any hope of democracy in Cambodia, he said.
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Charleston, SC (29403)

Today

Plenty of sunshine. High 63F. Winds NNE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Mostly clear. Low 47F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.
A shuttered lumber mill in rural Allendale County will be reopened by a Canadian manufacturer that plans to hire 135 workers to capitalize on the Southeast building boom.

West Fraser Timber Co. Ltd. announced Oct. 26 that it has struck an agreement to buy the South Carolina business from Georgia-Pacific Corp. for $280 million in cash. It also will invest another $70 million to ramp up operations.

The sale requires U.S. regulatory approval.

"We have the leadership, people and know-how to execute on the capital and upgrade plan for this mill and expect to be ready for a restart within nine months of the acquisition closing based on current demand conditions, West Fraser Timber CEO Ray Ferris said in a written statement.

The Vancouver-based wood-products company said it will provide more details about the deal on Oct. 28, when it releases its quarterly financial results.

The idled mill is on Highway 321 between Fairfax and Ulmer. It was built around 2006 by Canada's Grant Forest Products to produce a fast-growing and cheaper alternative to plywood called oriented strand board, or OSB. The composite material is made by layering wood strips in patterns and adding high-strength adhesives to form structural panels for floors, roofs and other uses.

Grant Forest ended up in financial trouble and filed for bankruptcy protection after the 2007 recession. Georgia-Pacific snapped up the Allendale mill and two others for $400 million in 2010. The Atlanta-based timber giant idled the plant and another in McCormick County about two years ago, blaming soft market conditions and saying they were unprofitable.

The closings eliminated 240 jobs and affected other businesses, including loggers and trucking firms.

At the time, Georgia-Pacific said both mills would be "maintained in a ready state to begin production should the long-range forecast for market conditions change."

The buyer of the Allendale site became the world's largest maker of oriented strand board after its $3.1 billion buyout of Toronto's Norbord Inc. earlier this year.

It said the deal with Georgia-Pacific is its latest effort "to create value by deploying the company's expertise at successfully ... restarting idled OSB mills," including a reopening in Quebec in March and an Alabama reboot in 2017.

The Allendale plant is designed to churn out about 760 million square feet of panels annually, and it could take up to two years to reach full production. West Fraser Timber said the acquisition will give the company "the flexibility to better meet customer demand, particularly from large, growing end-markets in the southeastern U.S."

It added that its $350 million total investment is expected to be "a significant discount" compared to the cost of building a mill from scratch while also "requiring a shorter time to initial production," according to the statement.

West Fraser Timber makes an assortment of forestry products, from newsprint to building materials, at more than 60 manufacturing sites in North American and Europe. Its two existing South Carolina plants are along U.S. Route 76, in Newberry and in nearby Kinards.
The number of COVID-19 cases among Charleston County School District students and staff is on a steady decline.

Last week marked the seventh consecutive week of declining cases with just 78 students and staff members testing positive for the virus. The number means less than 1 percent of the district's population were in quarantine as of Oct. 25.

The number is also a large drop from the district's peak of 473 cases over the week of Aug. 30.

"This is all really good news," Superintendent Gerrita Postlewait said during a Oct. 25 board meeting.

The declining case numbers mean fewer students are learning in a temporary virtual format which both educators and parents agree is less than ideal.

Starting Oct. 25, district teachers are scaling back their virtual learning offerings. Elementary teachers will no longer provide virtual Zoom links for students to participate in live classes. Teachers at the middle and high school levels are only providing Zoom links "on a limited basis," according to a letter the district sent to a parent on Oct. 22.

The district's current system of having teachers instruct students in-person and online simultaneously places an added strain on its educators. Elementary school students often struggle to stay still and remain focused during virtual class time.

The district is allowing middle and high school teachers to open Zoom classrooms if needed because older students are better able to work independently.

Most virtual students will be sent home with learning packets and online content to complete using Canvas, the website the district uses to manage grades and courses. School staff will continue to check in on students when they are out sick to ensure they don't fall behind, according to a letter to parents.

Classes will not change for students who enrolled in the district's Low Country Virtual program. Those students are committed to virtual learning for the entire school year.

District officials are also working to offer more vaccination and testing opportunities for students and employees. School nurses are offering COVID-19 booster shots to eligible employees in coordination with flu shots.

Additionally, the district is looking into having an early release day to allow staff members to get vaccinated at various locations. Chief Operations Officer Jeff Borowy said they will have more information about locations and times at a later date.

Charleston County school officials are also preparing for federal approval of the vaccine for children ages 5 and up. Over the weekend Dr. Anthony Fauci, the country's top infectious disease official, said the children between the ages of 5 and 11 could be vaccinated with at least one dose by early November. The Food and Drug Administration meets Oct. 26 to discuss the emergency use authorization of the vaccine among the age group, and is expected to make a ruling in the days following the meeting.

In the meantime, district officials are convening with health experts to devise a plan for offering vaccines to these students. The district plans to offer those vaccines between now and Christmas break, Borowy said.

Postlewait added that district officials are reaching out to medical experts for more guidance regarding the pandemic. The school board directed the district to gather more guidance from medical experts at the Oct. 11 meeting.

Postlewait presented five topics the district has sent to medical experts for guidance. Those topics include guidelines for face mask policies, length of quarantines for students or staff, operating protocols for winter indoor sports, COVID-19 testing prior to overnight trips, and safe practices for indoor choir concerts.

"These are the five that are most frequently asked by our parents and students," Postlewait said.

District officials plan to present the feedback to the board at upcoming meetings.
South Carolina had 562 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 on Oct. 25. Two deaths from the coronavirus were also reported to the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control, bringing the total number of COVID-related deaths here to 11,731 since the start of the pandemic.

Statewide numbers

New cases reported: 562 confirmed, 122 probable.

Total cases in S.C.: 716,519 confirmed, 177,107 probable.

Percent positive: 4.6 percent.

New deaths reported: Two confirmed, one probable.

Total deaths in S.C.: 11,731 confirmed, 1,828 probable.

Percent of ICU beds filled (with COVID-19 and other patients): 73.7 percent.

S.C. residents vaccinated

DHECs vaccine dashboard indicates that 62.2 percent of South Carolina residents have received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine. According to the dashboard, 54.5 percent of the states residents have completed vaccination.

Hardest-hit areas

Greenville (119), Richland (57) and Charleston (50) counties saw the highest total number of new cases.

What about the tri-county?

Charleston County had 50 new cases, Berkeley County had 18 and Dorchester had 16.

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 latest data, at least 272 people in South Carolina died from the virus from Oct. 10 to Oct. 16, and their ages ranged from young adults (18-34) to elderly (65 and older).

Greenville County recorded 52 COVID deaths that week  the highest numbers in the state. Health officials have reported the vast majority of patients who are dying from the coronavirus at this stage of the pandemic are unvaccinated.

Hospitalizations

Of the 764 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of Oct. 25, 235 were in the ICU and 165 were using ventilators.

What do experts say?

Moderna said on Oct. 25 that a low dose of its COVID-19 vaccine is safe and appears to work in 6- to 11-year-olds.

Pfizer's kid-size vaccine doses are undergoing evaluation by the Food and Drug Administration for youngsters in nearly the same age group, 5 to 11, and could be available by early November. The company's vaccine already is authorized for anyone 12 or older.

Moderna hasn't yet gotten the go-ahead to offer its vaccine to teens, but is studying lower doses in younger children while it waits.

Herd immunity from COVID-19 will happen when enough people are protected from the virus either by contracting it or by getting vaccinated. According to DHEC, 70 percent to 80 percent of the states population would need to be immune to COVID-19 to reach herd immunity.

To find a COVID-19 vaccine in South Carolina, go to vaxlocator.dhec.sc.gov or call 866-365-8110.
The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control recorded 564 newly confirmed and probable COVID-19 cases on Oct. 26 and six new deaths.

The latest data from DHEC shows South Carolina has recorded over 13,000 deaths from COVID-19, and nearly 55 percent of all eligible residents in the state are considered fully vaccinated.

Statewide numbers

New cases reported: 456 confirmed, 108 probable.

Total cases in S.C.: 717,016 confirmed, 177,205 probable.

Percent positive: 5.7 percent.

New deaths reported: Six confirmed, zero probable.

Total deaths in S.C.: 11,737 confirmed, 1,828 probable.

Percent of ICU beds filled (with COVID-19 and other patients): 71.95 percent.

S.C. residents vaccinated

In South Carolina, 62.2 percent of people who are eligible for the vaccine have received one shot, and 54.6 percent of eligible residents are considered fully vaccinated.

Hardest-hit areas

On Oct. 26, Greenville (72), Horry (45) and Spartanburg (38) counties saw the highest totals of newly confirmed cases.

What about the tri-county?

Charleston County had 13 new cases on Oct. 26, while Berkeley had 10 and Dorchester 12.

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 latest data, at least 224 people in South Carolina died from the virus Oct. 17-23, and their ages ranged from young adult (18-34) to elderly (65 and older).

Greenville County recorded 31 COVID deaths that week  the highest numbers in the state. Health officials have reported the vast majority of patients who are dying from the coronavirus at this stage of the pandemic are unvaccinated.

Hospitalizations

Of the 755 COVID-19 patients hospitalized as of Oct. 26, 219 were in the ICU and 144 were using ventilators.

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 the latest data published by the agency on Oct. 13, 3,299 samples have been identified as variants of concern over the course of the pandemic. Of those, 2,053 have been identified as the delta variant, which health officials say is now the dominant strain in South Carolina.

What do experts say?

Experts from DHEC continue to urge all residents to get vaccinated against COVID-19 ahead of a possible winter surge in cases.

To find a vaccine clinic near you, go to vaxlocator.dhec.sc.gov.
MYRTLE BEACH  A dozen business owners and employees from seven Myrtle Beach-area construction companies pleaded guilty to charges of employment tax fraud and employing undocumented workers in what the U.S. Attorneys Office called one of the largest-ever tax fraud investigations in South Carolina.

At least $15 million in checks were cashed by the defendants, authorities said. The owners and employees agreed to pay a total of $3 million in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service, and each could face more than five years in prison.

IRS and Homeland Security Investigations officials said on Oct. 26 they continue to probe similar schemes along the S.C. coast that costs tens of millions of dollars of tax losses.

An undercover investigation started by federal authorities in 2018 targeted those in the construction industry who used unlicensed check cashers to assist with under-the-table payments to employees to avoid paying employment taxes. Many of the workers were undocumented, said Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Shoemake.

"This is not a victimless crime," Shoemake told reporters at a press conference on Oct. 26. "This victimizes the American taxpayers; it victimizes those honest workers who are trying to do the right thing. It also victimizes workers on these job sites who are working without any insurance. If one of these gentleman or ladies fell off a ladder, there's no insurance."

The defendants met with the check cashers in parking lots for retail stores or coffee shops, the investigation found. The casher was given a business check made out in a certain amount to a company that the check casher created, and the employer was given a bag of cash to pay the employees, minus a 3 percent fee, according to Shoemake.

To make it appear that the workers had valid insurance on job sites, the check casher provided a bogus certificate of workers compensation insurance, the investigation found. The check casher and the employer agreed that the casher would claim to be a subcontractor of the employer, who provided the workers and provided insurance. This also cheated the government out of applicable employment taxes, officials said.

The scheme using the casher provided cover for construction companies to hire undocumented workers and pay them with untaxed cash, authorities said.

The 12 defendants pleaded guilty to one felony count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and one misdemeanor count of unlawful employment of undocumented workers. They included:

Daniel Lavoie and Enrique R. Reyes, both of Conway, who worked at Daniel Lavoie Construction Services of Conway

Walter A. Duran and Lisa Caulley Sellers, both of Myrtle Beach, who worked at Duran Masonry of Myrtle Beach

Ming Xue Nan and Katherine L. Welker, both of Myrtle Beach, who worked at Extreme Siding of Myrtle Beach

Marylany Hardman Levino and Josafa P. Neto, both of Myrtle Beach, who worked at Master Homes of Calabash, N.C.

Saul Prieto and Martha E. Zarate, both of Myrtle Beach, who worked at Metro Concrete Finishers of Conway

Marcos Caetano De Almeida of Myrtle Beach, who worked at Master Homes Design Center of Myrtle Beach

Johanna A. Carpio of Myrtle Beach, who worked at Paint By Numbers of Myrtle Beach

The companies were not cited in the investigation.

The 12 defendants each face up to five years in federal prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States and up to six months for unlawful employment of undocumented workers. Each defendant also faces fines of up to $250,000 and $3,000 for each undocumented worker.

They will be sentenced within 60 days, authorities said.

They did it for their own financial gain and their personal gain and at the expense of the health and safety of the workers in this case, but also the local businesses in this area, Scott Crabb, the assistant special agent in charge with Homeland Security Investigations, said.
A former Charleston County assistant public defender has received a $605,000 payout to settle his long-running lawsuit against the county and his ex-boss over his firing in 2014.

Beattie Butler alleged that the countys top public defender, Ashley Pennington, violated his constitutional right to free speech when Butler was terminated after raising ethics concerns about 9th Circuit Solicitor Scarlett Wilson and her office.

Butler, who was Penningtons second-in-command, had accused his former boss of improperly trying to muzzle complaints from the public defender's office about Wilson. Pennington has long denied the allegations, insisting that Butler had a fixation on the countys top prosecutor that proved disruptive to the office.

Neither side acknowledges wrongdoing in the settlement, which resulted in Butler dropping his lawsuit and Pennington abandoning a defamation counter-claim against Butler. The states Insurance Reserve Fund and the Chubb North America insurance company are footing the bill for the payout, according to documents obtained by The Post and Courier.

The fund and Chubb also paid the legal bills to defend Pennington and the county during the cases lengthy run through the federal courts since Butler sued in 2015. Fund officials could not immediately provide a figure for those expenses when contacted Oct. 25.

"I regret that the State (and possibly its taxpayers) have to foot the bill for Mr. Pennington's conduct, Butler said in a prepared statement. All I ever wanted was my job back.

Butler suggested the litigation could have been put to rest years ago had Pennington gone along with a proposal floated by the defense team. Pennington's lawyers proposed the county rehire Butler at his same salary to handle other legal matters and training but without having to work with his former boss, said Butler, who is now in private practice.

I jumped at the opportunity, he stated. However, I understand Pennington vetoed the idea."

Pennington declined to discuss Butlers assertions when reached late last week.

The only comment that I have at this time is that the parties mediated and settled their claims in this dispute, thereby ending the lawsuit after almost six years of litigation, he said in a written statement. The parties further agreed that there would be no finding or admission of wrongdoing by any party to the lawsuit.

Charleston County officials offered no comment on the suits resolution other than to say the matter had been settled by the insurance carriers, who also covered defense costs.

Divisive rift

The rift between the two men divided the office that defends Charleston Countys poor and indigent in criminal trials. Butler had spent 12 years working in the office, rising to the position of chief litigator before he was terminated.

Butler was undergoing cancer treatment when he was fired and he alleged in the suit that Pennington took advantage of his weakened physical condition ... to inflict greater harm.

Pennington denied that, maintaining he adjusted Butlers workload and allowed him to work from home before he was eventually fired.

The episode provoked strong feelings in the local legal community, juxtaposing allegations of insubordination against concerns that Butler was sacked for fulfilling his professional duty as a lawyer to report possible wrongdoing by other attorneys.

At issue was alleged misconduct by prosecutors in various cases, often involving their failure to turn over evidence to defense attorneys before trial. One instance involved prosecutors failing to share crime scene notes from a shooting; in another, it was their failure to tell defense attorneys that a key witness in a murder case was vacillating about her account, according to judicial papers.

Butler has said he felt duty-bound to file complaints with the state Supreme Courts Office of Disciplinary Counsel but that Pennington forbade it  an allegation Pennington has long denied.

For her part, Wilson maintained that the issues surrounding the cases in question had already been hashed out in court and resolved with no findings of prosecutorial misconduct.

The controversy took on new life after the S.C. Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers filed a grievance in February 2014 seeking an investigation into the practices of Wilsons office. Then, in May of that year, Columbia lawyer Desa Ballard filed grievances seeking investigations of both Wilson and Pennington for alleged ethical breaches. She alleged that Pennington has stifled criticism of Wilson and required his staff to go through him before filing grievances. Pennington insisted the allegations were utterly false.

State judicial officials later tossed out the ethics complaints against Wilson and Pennington after finding no evidence to support claims that their conduct undermined the pursuit of justice.

Long journey

Butlers lawsuit, filed in November 2015, took much longer to resolve. Lower court rulings dismissed some of Butlers claims due to immunity provisions that protect government defendants. But the courts allowed his First Amendment claim to proceed. In March 2020, the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court decision that Butler maintained a First Amendment right to report alleged prosecutorial misconduct.

Pennington's lawyers appealed the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court, which declined to hear the case. The matter was headed back to the district court for trial when the settlement was reached.

The case file and exhibits grew exponentially over the years and included many interesting tidbits, including a series of emails Pennington sent Wilson between 2008 and 2015. One offered a little spiritual advice; others invitations to lunch and a sailing trip with his wife. In another exchange from 2008, Pennington offered to make a donation to Wilson's campaign in an uncontested race. State elections records show he donated $500 to Wilson's campaign in that year. He did so again in 2011, records show.

Butler and his supporters have argued that this shows a too-chummy relationship between office-holders who are supposed to be adversaries. Wilson and Pennington have maintained that they and their attorneys can be professionally collegial while continuing to fight hard in the courtroom, just like the private lawyers.

Wilson said she hopes all parties can move on from a lawsuit she described as bizarre. Despite the tensions involved, she said the case has not had a negative effect on the relations between her office and the public defenders office.

They are professionals. We are professionals, she said. Beyond the initial flurry of the allegations and my being cleared years and years ago, it hasnt been a topic for us.
The Guam Economic Diversification Working Group has made progress in helping Guam recover from financial downturns brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the accompanying collapse in the island's tourism industry, the Guam Chamber of Commerce said at a membership meeting.

Christine Baleto, chairperson of the Guam Chamber of Commerce, and other chamber officials credited the partnership with Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and the government of Guam for the headway made to attract and stand up about a dozen new job sectors locally.

"There have been some great wins for some of these initiatives, and we're proud of the work the group is doing," Baleto said Tuesday at the chamber's virtual meeting.

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The partnership began after the chamber created an economic think tank to address the challenges brought about by the pandemic. The group submitted a white paper outlining the benefits of 10 new industries, the barriers or prohibitive laws that discourage growth, and an action plan the government could use.

Proposed industries and sectors include:

- Alternative dispute resolution center.

- Captive insurance industry.

- Guam trusts.

- Relocation of high-wealth businesses/individuals.

- Pharmaceutical manufacturing.

- Ship repair.

- Safe haven port program for visiting ships.

- "Silicon Village Initiative."

- Satellite launch industry.

- Aquaculture and agriculture.

Local involvement in U.S. military ship repair has risen since efforts began, according to Joe Cruz, a leader in the working group and president of Cabras Marine Corp. The company provides a number of services for vessels, including repair of government and commercial ships.

"In the last 18 months, we've seen a significant increase in ship repair activity here in Guam  mainly because areas like Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam, which were once repair points that the U.S. government had used for its vessels, were now closed," Cruz said. "As a result, Guam has become a viable option. We've been able to deliver a product that the U.S. government has found acceptable, and we're continuing to work on our major challenge, of course, which again is manpower development."

Guam Community College has sponsored several boot camps during that time frame that conclude with participants becoming employees of Cabras Marine. One held in September placed 16 students into positions at the company. The camps have produced 56 of these apprentices so far.

The governor dedicated about $3 million to support the joint efforts with the chamber, Melanie Mendiola, administrator of the Guam Economic Development Authority, shared at Tuesday's meeting.

"That, in and of itself, is an accomplishment that we are utilizing moneys in this way  to leverage our partnerships with the private sector to build on these industries," she said. "There are government agencies ... who may not be getting (American Rescue Plan) funding. And to utilize funding to shore up these industries  one of the biggest hurdles to accomplishing some of the working items that these different subcommittees have is the resources to do so. And the governor is allowing us to have the resources to do so."
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News out of Washington today is that Democrats are close to a deal on a stripped-down reconciliation spending binge that will be only perhaps $2.2 trillion instead of $3.5 trillion (though both figures are lies, as the real cost will be much higher). The most important aspect of this story, if accurate, is that Democrats hope to be able to close the deal by this weekend, and pass both the reconciliation package and the bi-partisan infrastructure bill that the Senate passed back in the paleolithic era.

Democrats think they need to get it done by this weekend because they are in a panic about the Virginia governors election now just eight days away. Recent polls show Terry McAwful tied or well within the margin of error with Republican Glenn Youngkin. Virginia has in the last decade or more flipped purple if not totally blue, electing Democrats to statewide and national office by double-digit margins. That the race is this close shows how unpopular Democrats have become.

Recall that back in 1993 and again in 2009 Republicans swept the off-year gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey, and if it happens again this year it will demonstrate that, once again, the new Democratic president has lurched too far to the left. (Incidentally, while the Virginia race is getting all the Beltway media attention precisely because it is adjacent to the Beltway, the New Jersey governors race, where Democrat Phil Murphy is running for re-election, is within single-digit margins according to most polls, so a GOP victory there is not out of the question. But it is drawing little media attention.) If McAuliffe loses next week, it will be a huge warning shot to Democrats.

It is a sign of Democratic desperation that they had to roll out President Obama over the weekend to campaign for McAuliffe. And to try to deflect from the Democrats biggest electoral weaknesstheir wokeness. Thats why Obama was desperate to change the subject. This fits with the desperation to pass a huge spending bill this week so as to change the headlines. Especially headlines like this that are an in-kind gift to the Youngkin campaign:

Theres also this, which might be a clever Youngkin false flag:

Seldom has the Progressive left been more open about their contempt for self-government than McAuliffes parents have no right to tell schools what to teach or this Post headline. We, the experts, know better. Your job as a parent is to shut up. Makes you wonder why we still have elected school boards at all. (Though with the teachers union domination of so many of them, I wonder. . . Mark Twains famous line about school boardsIn the first place God made idiots. This was for practice. Then He made School Boardsshould be amended: Then He made teachers unions.)

Theres a poll out today showing that Virginia voters with K-12 age children are breaking for Youngkin by about a 60-40 margin.

ChaserHeres a part of the Virginia code:

Chaser 2:

PAUL ADDS: Im probably missing something, but I dont understand how passing massive spending measures is going to help McAuliffe win in Virginia. Ive no seen evidence that infrastructure spending and the build back better package are issues of significance in the Youngkin-McAuliffe race for governor.

I can see why the spending measures might be relevant in next years congressional races. But keep in mind that Congress passed a huge stimulus bill early in Barack Obamas presidency and still suffered what Obama described as a shellacking in 2010.

STEVE responds: I should perhaps have explained more. There is a lot of chatter that McAuliffe has been telling Hill Democrats to please pass the bipartisan infrastructure bill so he can change the subject. McAuliffe has said publicly that Bidens sinking popularity is hurting him, and that the House should pass the infrastructure bill. But the progressives wont budge. Thus the necessity to complete the grand bargain this week.
This, via Stephen Green, is pretty funny: Lets Go Brandon! Washington Post Issues the Greatest Correction Ever. Im not sure it is the greatest ever, but it is pretty funny:

Over the weekend, WaPo published a return to civility-type piece decrying the increasingly vulgar taunts hurled at poor Presidentish Joe Biden.

Steve wrote about that piece here: Media Vapors Over Lets Go Brandon. This is the funny part:

Heres the correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly said a crowd broke into a Lets go Brandon chant during a Donald Trump Jr. speech in Georgia. The crowd broke into a F Joe Biden! chant at that speech in September. The error, which was inserted by an editor, has been corrected. Heres how the story reads now: The former presidents son, Donald Trump Jr., has repeatedly promoted the meme, and the original chant, on his social media feeds. At a speech in Georgia in September, he took the stage after the crowd had been chanting USA! USA! Theres a couple other chants Ive been hearing going around, Trump Jr. said. Have you heard the other one thats been going around? The crowd took the cue and broke into cries of F Joe Biden!

So the Posts editor couldnt bring himself to record the full extent of the crowds disdain for Joe Biden? Apparently not. What is interesting to me is that the Post assumed everyone understands Lets go, Brandon, even though, as best I can tell from a search of the Posts web site, it has never explained that phenomenon to its readers.

This strikes me as one more instance of the liberal presss inability to keep its readers in the dark.
Headlines like this from todays Wall Street Journal make me smile and rush off to check on my fossil-fuel-heavy stock portfolio:

A surge in energy stocks is challenging climate-conscious money managers who beat the market for years when the sector struggled but are now missing out on Wall Streets hottest trade. The S&P 500 energy sector has rebounded 54% this year, outpacing the broad indexs 21% climb and leading the second-best performing group by about 16 percentage points. . . Investors who for years could easily eschew companies such as Exxon Mobil Corp. or Chevron Corp. must choose whether the possibility of rosy returns outweighs their climate considerations. . . The percentage of fund managers holding a larger position in energy stocks than the benchmarks they track recently hit its highest level since 2012 in a monthly Bank of America Corp. survey.

The old oil, gas, and coal stocks that all right-minded people are supposedly divesting from remind me of tobacco stocks in the late 1990s. If you bought them then, you made a killing. Reminderif the energy forecast for the next 30 years from the best energy forecasters turns out like this, then youll make a lot of money in traditional brown energy:

UPDATE (from Bloomberg):

And concerning this climate question about getting to zero carbon emissionsif only there was a technology that delivered lots of 24/7 dispatchable electricity with no carbon. . .

Chaser:

Lets go Brandon!
 Headline, from Nature magazine this week:

Money quote: Politicians who are not trained in science should not meddle in our day-to-day business, or tell scientists whats right or wrong.

This is exactly how we got Fauci funding gain of function research in China, and (apparently) experimenting in a gruesome fashion on dogs.

 Reminder, from President Eisenhowers Farewell Address:

The prospect of domination of the nations scholars by Federal employment, project allocations, and the power of money is ever present and is gravely to be regarded. Yet, in holding scientific research and discovery in respect, as we should, we must also be alert to the equal and opposite danger that public policy could itself become the captive of a scientific-technological elite. It is the task of statesmanship to mold, to balance, and to integrate these and other forces, new and old, within the principles of our democratic system-ever aiming toward the supreme goals of our free society.

 Another reminder, from (socialist) Harold Laski:
The Nigerian government says it is considering banning the importation of barite, a mineral used in the oil and gas industry, in an effort to boost local production and save the nation foreign exchange.

Such a ban would save at least $300 million annually, the government said, but suggested it may raise import tariffs on the material in the alternative.

Olamilekan Adegbite, Minister of Mines and Steel Development, disclosed this while briefing journalists on Monday in Abuja. He said the government will be inaugurating Made-in-Nigeria barite on Thursday.

Mr Adegbite said that the inauguration, scheduled to hold in Port-Harcourt, would be a great achievement to the country and it would also save Forex for Nigeria.

Barite is a mineral used in the oil and gas industry and Nigeria has the mineral all over the country, especially in Benue, Taraba, Adamawa, Nasarawa, Plateau, Gombe and Cross River states,he said.

He said that 50 bags of barite milled would be showcased at the inauguration, adding that the mineral meant for oil and gas industry was produced to meet American Petroleum Institute (API) standard set for oil industries.

We have 50 bags as samples that have being produced and labeled proudly Made-in-Nigeria. What we have done as ministry is to create linkages from the mines to the millers to the baggage and to the market.

Nigeria has been spending US$ 300 million annually importing barite but this must stop; we will go to the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to protect barite local market.

There are two ways to this, the council in its wisdom may ban importation of barite out-rightly, that is one way or the council will choose tariff protection for the local barite.

Now, Nigeria is ready to supply the local users with barite and also to export to other oil-producing countries such as Ghana, South Africa to earn foreign exchange through exportation, he said.

Besides having applications in medical diagnostics, the oil and gas industry is the primary user of barite. It is used as a weighting agent in drilling mud and the global demand for oil and natural gas has caused the price of barite to increase.

The API standard says for barite to be used in the oil and gas industry, it must meet a minimum of 4.1 gravity, the barite we have in Nigeria is from 3.8 to 4.8 gravity, that means we have some that exceeded API standard.

We will blend the 3.8 with the 4.8 gravity then we will get the average of 4.5 gravity and there about, that means we are above the 4.1 API minimum standard requirement,the minister said.

We have sensitised our miners on the API standard and the barite must be blended to acceptable powder of 0.3 macron, it must be a fine powder, if it is less than, it will hang on the drilling ring.

We are also carrying various stakeholders along and with the local content body in the oil industry set up by the Government; the body will be in Port Harcourt for the inauguration.

He said that an online portal that would connect all these people and the users together has been set up to block import of the product, as many of them would still prefer to import the mineral.

We have set up price per kilogramme, we set up our price well below as an offer to the market for a start.

We dont want it to be a government thing that is why the portal is set up to run on its own.

With the portal set up, the miner gets its money from the portal once it supplies the barite, the millers get what is due to them and the person supplying the bags gets his money to enable them pay royalty to the government.

He said this achievement would encourage more miners to come into the industry and invest, adding that it would also create job opportunities for the youth. (NAN)
Showmax has dropped the official trailer for its first comedy-drama series in West Africa, Ghana Jollof, which premiered on Friday.

Ghana Jollof tells the sizzling story of two young Nigerians, Jasper (Funnybone) and Romanus (Akah Nnani), who moved to Ghana in search of greener pastures.

In the trailer, things startup with a first-time meeting between Nnamdi (Uzor Arukwe, who starred as dreaded crime boss Knight in Sugar Rush), Jasper (AMVCA-winning actor/comedian Funnybone), Kweku (heartthrob James Gardiner from Ghanas popular telenovela Dede), and Romanus (AMAA nominee/Youtuber Akah Nnani).

Subsequently, Jasper and Romanus head out to Ghana to jollof, kicking off a series of adventures and misadventures.

Executive produced by Nigerias King of Comedy, Basketmouth, Ghana Jollof serves up a delicious ensemble cast from both Nigeria and Ghana. This includes the likes of AMAA nominee, Joselyn Dumas, leading comedienne Jacinta Ocansey, Mawuli Gavor (Chief Daddy), reality star Portia Freelove, model and actress Brihanna Kinte.

Others are veteran actor Jackson Albert Davies (Beasts of No Nation), actress, Korkor Oyeba Mensah, and multiple award-winning comedian/actor, Kalybos, not to mention Basketmouth himself.

Ive always wanted to create something that would be a collaboration between Nigeria and Ghana, and Ghana Jollof is a realisation of that dream, says Basketmouth. From the cast to the crew, everyone gave of themselves to create a show deserving to be Showmaxs first comedy-drama from West Africa. We all cant wait for the fans to see what weve cooked up.

Fans can expect to see some of their favourite stars in a whole new light. Were cooking up a storm and cant wait to share this tasty package with everyone. Ghana Jollof is here to serve up exceptional content that gives us a glimpse into the cultures of Nigeria and Ghana.

Ghana Jollof is directed by AMVCA nominee Diji Aderogba, whose debut feature film, About A Boy, won the Audience Choice Award at Nollywood Film Week in Paris, France.

It will be available for streaming across Africa and in the UK. The show will have 13 episodes to devour, with new episodes dropping every Friday.

Background

Earlier in the year, Showmax broke first-day streaming records in Nigeria when it launched I am LAYCON, a reality show based on Big Brother Naija Season 5 winner, Laycon.

It also produced the hit BBNaija-focused talk show The Buzz which was hosted by Toke Makinwa and became the second-most-watched show  after BBNaija  on the platform. The Real Housewives of Lagos is also expected to launch as a Showmax Original in early 2022.

Watch the trailer below:
A Nollywood filmmaker, Niyi Akinmolayan, has dedicated his new film, Progressive Tailors Club, to late actress, Rachel Oniga.

Until her death on July 30, the veteran actress featured in some of the best Nollywood and Yoruba movies.

The late Oniga was one of the actors in the star-studded movie set to hit the cinema on October 29.

Ahead of the premiere of the movie, the filmmaker wrote a tribute on Instagram to the late actress and his mum as he dedicated the movie to them.

The political satire film stars Beverly Osu, Uzor Arukwe, Funnybone, and Blessing Jessica Obasi with Rachael Oniga, Lizzy Jay, Adedimeji Lateef, and Bolaji Ogunmola, in supporting roles.

The film deals with members of the Progressive Tailors Club where they gather for a meeting to elect their new leader. However, when a longstanding, trusted executive is eliminated for corruption, it comes down to a choice between the old, the new, and the ridiculous.

The tribute

Until Onigas death, the filmmaker had planned on dedicating the film to his mother who died a decade ago. The filmmaker also recounted that the actress who also featured in the movie was the first to call him back after he sent out the scripts to the cast and she was pleased with it.

Today is a little bit bittersweet for me. I had hoped I would be dedicating Progressive Tailors Club to just one person; my mum. She was the inspiration for the movie as much of the ideas and characters inside were from the Tailors club she founded while alive and the stories she shared after their meetings. She passed on 10yrs ago but she still lives in my head.

Aunty Rachel Oniga was the first actor to call back after we sent out the scripts. We spoke for almost an hour. She said Niyi where do you get all these Crazy ideas from. I told her they were all my Mums. She saidah we must dedicate the movie to her memory o. Then we laughed real hard about Mrs Edem; the character Rachel plays in the film,.

He also added that although he does not believe in the afterlife, he can find some solace in knowing that as long as his movie exists, these two beautiful women will forever be alive to him.
Murray Last, author of The Sokoto Caliphate, was a graduate student at the prestigious Yale University when he first heard about the Fulani Empire in northern Nigeria.

That was in 1959, the year Northern Region  the jurisdiction that succeeded the Empire  became self-governing under the rules created by colonial British government.

The young Mr Lasts African History professor, Harry Rudin, a Cameroonian, also introduced him to the Qadiriyya movement in West Africa.

But as much as he appreciated Mr Rudins scholarly leadership, Yale did not ignite Murray Lasts interest in the in the Empire, that happened at the University College, Ibadan (UCI).

In 1960 when Nigeria was newly independent, African History was getting more interest as a discipline in Europe and America, but it was still plagued by the pre-WWII mindset that showcased the written accounts of European traders, missionaries, mercenaries and conquerors as the totality of African History.

The European scholar, Professor Kenneth Onwuka Dike later wrote in the introduction to The Sokoto Caliphate, that some historians tended to equate written documents with history, and to take the absence of documents to mean the absence of events worthy of historical study.

Mr Dike was the first African to complete training in western historical scholarship at Kings College, London. He was also the first African appointed as Professor of History at UCI and Vice-Chancellor from 1962 to 1967 after UCI became a full-fledged university. He died in 1983.

As a result, in the nineteenth century, when Europe occupied Africa, her scholars did not attempt to understand or to build on the historical traditions in existence there, the late Prof Dike said.

It was not only historical traditions that 19th Century European scholars ignored, there were also documentary evidence, written by Africans in real time, that they bypassed either because of the forestated lackadaisical approach to the history of sub-Saharan Africans or out of genuine ignorance of the documents existence. Either way, they ended up producing historical scholarship that almost always portrayed what Professor Last calls the dark side of [Africas] past and its cliches.

The attitude to historical scholarship at UCI differed significantly from that mode. Murray Last recounted in a recent interview that in the 1960s, UCIs focus was on producing the best bits of Nigerias history.

We were determined in Ibadan to show how African History could be just as seriously scholarly as anything written about, say, Ancient Greece or Rome. Done like that, our new History couldnt be written off as just more African folklore or an ethnography inventing the past, he said.

That focus took the young Mr. Last from the graduate classrooms of UCI where he was learning classical Arabic to northern Nigeria in pursuit of decades-old manuscripts. His first stop was Kano where he helped catalogue the collection of Arabic manuscripts at Shahuci Judicial School Library. Then he was dispatched to Waziri Junaidus house in Sokoto.

Counting from Gidado dan Laima who was his great grandfather, Mr Junaidu was the 10th Waziri (vizier) of Sokoto, the administrative base of the Fulani Empire or Sokoto Caliphate.

It became the Sokoto Sultanate after British conquest in 1903. Gidado dan Laima was Waziri to Muhammed Bello, son of Uthman dan Fodio and caliph of the Fulani Empire from 1817 to 1837.

Dan Laima, who hosted the British explorer Hugh Clapperton on his two visits to Sokoto, is credited with expanding the Wizarah (Vizierate)s role to include custodian of the Caliphates intellectual tradition and, passing it on to succeeding Waziris.

By the time Murray Last began graduate studies at UCI, the manuscripts in the custody of the Sokoto Wizarah were legend, especially the collection of 19th century Arabic correspondence.

Professor H.F.C. (later, Abdullahi) Smith, his supervisor, urged him to research the collection, the young Mr Last began that as soon as he secured an introduction to Waziri Junaidu in 1962. He started research work for his PhD thesis in Waziri Junaidus small study room where the Arabic correspondence was kept.

The study room was part of the family compound so Mr Last was privy to history while researching historical records. The present Waziri, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, was a schoolboy then, I used to hear him arriving from school, Mr Murray Last recalled in a recent email message.

Prof Last travelled widely within the borders of the defunct Fulani Empire visiting more than fifty towns on the Nigerian side and twelve towns that are now part of Niger Republic while he was conducting his research.

The Sokoto Caliphate was first published in 1967. Except for the title, it was the sum of Murray Lasts 1964 PhD thesis, word for word. It was the first PhD thesis approved by the University of Ibadan.

That is the first of many records it broke. It was also the first book that documented the Fulani Empire from the inside, utilizing books, records and letters written by its African leaders and officials in the Arabic original as primary source material, not, as non-UCI scholars did, accounts of European explorers like Clapperton or translations of Arabic texts by colonial administrators.

It was lauded as a landmark in the historiography of northern Nigeria and the then newly minted Dr Murray Last was hailed as the first scholar to focus minutely on the structure and administration of the Fulani Empire.

Fifty-four years on, The Sokoto Caliphate is the acknowledged classic text on the Fulani Empire. It has gone through several editions, including the Hausa edition, Daular Sakkwato, published in 2009, but has never had an all-Nigeria edition.

In late 2019, Premium Times Books began discussions with Professor Murray Last about publishing the Nigerian edition of The Sokoto Caliphate which he graciously agreed to.

Publishing The Sokoto Caliphate is in keeping with Premium Times Books mission statement of bringing books about Nigerians home to Nigeria.

At its zenith, the Sokoto Caliphates east-west boundary stretched from modern Cameroon to Burkina Faso and, north-south, from Agadez in Niger Republic to Ilorin. Its legacy in Nigeria reverberates through present day debates about constitutional reform, restructuring and regional autonomy.

We at Premium Times Books, think the book, The Sokoto Caliphate, is, at the very least, a great resource material for ongoing debates, Musikilu Mojeed, the Chief Operating Officer of the PREMIUM TIMES Group, said.
Asue Ighodalo, Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), has said that three out of four digital start-ups, valued in excess of one billion dollars, were founded by young Nigerian entrepreneurs.

Mr Ighodalo said this in his opening remarks at the 27th Nigerian Economic Summit on Monday in Abuja.

The NESG chairman said Nigerian technology entrepreneurs were able to leverage the digital transformation to succeed and attract local and foreign investments.

As I stand before you today, three out of Africas four startup unicorns, valued in excess of $1 billion, were founded by young Nigerian entrepreneurs.

We celebrate the achievements of Interswitch, Flutterwave and Jumia. We can create and enable many more unicorns.

I am convinced that our path to greatness lies within our people, but we must inspire and support ourselves to believe in our country and trust our leaders, who must, by their acts, earn our trust.

He stressed that at the 2019 NES #25, young people reminded the summit of the issues that were of central priority of policy and governance.

Mr Ighodalo also recalled that the NES #26 in 2020 proposed several recommendations that were organised around ensuring a resilient economic recovery; strengthening partnerships; and unlocking sub-national competitiveness.

He added that meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030 and empowering the Nigerian youth also formed part of the recommendations.

The NESG chair further said that the NES #26 Report had been presented to the Federal Executive Council and National Economic Council.

We eagerly still look forward to the implementation of its key recommendations, Mr Ighodalo said, adding that the 27th Nigerian Economic Summit would build on the successes of past summits with the theme Securing Our Future: The Fierce Urgency of Now.

The chairman called on the president to give more attention to young people, out-of-school children, more job opportunities, security and economic diversification as the focus of his eight-year-term legacy.

He further urged state governments to reduce poverty, open up the rural sectors, provide extension services to farmers, storage facilities and routes to markets, while improving the quality of education for children in their states, healthcare facilities, enhancing Internally Generated Revenue and doing more to attract investments to their states.

Furthermore, he called on the private sector to support the Muhammadu Buhari-led administration to deliver improved quality of life for the people.

The only viable plan that can deliver improved quality of life for our people is the commitment of leaders, across board, to now urgently execute visionary, broad-based policies and programmes to create a great, safe, comfortable, productive, efficient and developed Nigeria.

As we look forward to the launch and implementation of the Medium-Term National Development Plan (20212025), Nigerians expect that it will signal a strong commitment to advancing the key imperatives for national development, he stressed.

The NESG boss also urged Nigerians to be open to new ideas and innovations that could transform the economy, saying, we must act boldly and with courage, in the best interest of all Nigerians.

(NAN)
At least six people have reportedly been killed while several others were abducted after bandits on Sunday evening raided Unguwar Samanja village in Faskari local government area of Katsina State.

Katsina is the home state of President Muhammadu Buhari and has suffered many attacks in the past.

Residents of neighbouring Daudawa told Premium Times that the bandits arrived at the village at 5:49 p.m. when residents where preparing for the dawn prayer.

Faskari local government area has suffered many attacks from bandits.

It is one of the 13 local government areas in Katsina State where telecom services have been cut.

A civil society organisation in Daudawa had cried out that despite the security measures taken by the state government, Faskari local government area has remained under attack.

Deadly attack

Nasir Hassan, a resident of Daudawa, said the attackers rode into the village on motorcycles minutes before the dawn prayer and started shooting sporadically.

From what I gathered, five people were confirmed dead after the attack and they have been buried today (Monday) morning, he said.

Mr Hassan, who is a student of a tertiary institution in Zamfara State, said the attackers also abducted several people but he had not ascertained their number.

They also burnt down houses and shops before leaving the village. I was told that they did not loot the shops, they only burnt them, he said.

However, another resident of Daudawa, Auwal Liman, said the number of those killed had risen to six, including another person killed in the outskirts of the village, who was reportedly from Unguwar Labbo community.

Bahisulhaq Alhassan, a student in Faskari, told PREMIUM TIMES that one of those killed was his friend.

His name is Jaafar Kabir and he was killed on his way to Daudawa from Unguwar Samanja.

The police spokesperson in the state, Gambo Isa, did not respond to calls and SMS sent to him on the attack.
The dramatic turn of events in Sudan which saw the nations top generals seizing power on Monday, arresting Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and other top civilian leaders before dissolving the government, has pushed thousands of protesters to the streets of the capital Khartoum.

The military has also responded to the demonstrations with high handedness with reports saying troops opened fire on the protesters.

Still, television broadcasts showed the defiant protesters have pressed on for their demands into Tuesday, burning tyres to barricade roads with some others retreating to neighbourhoods for their procession.

Civilian rule is the peoples choice, New York Times said they chanted, with many women also shouting no to military rule.

The spread of the demonstration unnerved the military, and troops fire has killed seven people and wounded at least 140 others, a Sudanese health ministry official told Reuters.

There are reports that troops have been going house to house in Khartoum arresting local protest organisers.

Sudans doctors union and the information ministry reported on Facebook that fatal shootings happened outside the military headquarters.

The nations information ministry said in a Facebook post on Monday that the military forces had pressured Mr Hamdok to release a pro-coup statement which he refused.

Mr Hamdoks refusal to endorse the coup, informed why he was moved to an unknown location, the ministry added.

Military takeover

Sudan was still consolidating on its fragile democracy after it emerged from decades of harsh autocratic rule and international isolation when the military struck on Monday barely two and half years after the toppling of long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir.

Mr al-Bashirs ouster, triggered by the increase in the cost of bread and general economic stagnancy, had offered hopes for the Sudanese people.

The civilian leaders and their military counterparts agreed to share power in an uneasy alliance that would see a peaceful transition to full civilian control for the first time since 1989.

But the alliance has now ultimately collapsed, mirroring a staggering rebuke to the Western countries which had shown optimism to a successful transition and had scrambled to stave off a military takeover.

The coup has drawn global condemnation from world leaders and regional organisations. Yet, the military would not budge.

Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the lieutenant general who heads the joint civilian-military Sovereignty Council overseeing those that had been governing the country, told a news conference on Monday that a new government would lead the country until elections in July 2023.

He sought to justify the takeover by blaming squabbles among political groups.

What the country is going through represents a threat, he said.

This is a new Sudan, he added. We call on everybody to come together to develop and build the country.

Khartoum airport has been closed and international flights, suspended, the BBC reported. The internet and most phone lines have been cut. Central Bank staff have reportedly gone on strike. The countrys doctors have reportedly refused to work in military-run hospitals except in emergencies.

Nigeria, AU, UN condemn coup

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the ministry of foreign affairs, on Monday condemned the military takeover in Sudan.

A statement by the ministry signed by Esther Sunsuwa, its spokeswoman, also called for a transition to civil rule and the release of the arrested leaders.

Top military generals in Sudan arrested Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and other top civilian leaders, declared a state of emergency, and dissolved the interim government on Monday.

Mr Hamdok was taken to an unknown location after he refused to endorse the coup by releasing a pro-coup statement, Sudans information ministry said.

The Nigerian government said it strongly condemns the coup detat, calling for the immediate release of the Prime Minister and all other political prisoners and an immediate restoration of the transitional government and implementation of the agreed roadmap to return the country to constitutional democracy.

The African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat also called for the release of Sudans political leaders and the respect of human rights.

The Chairperson calls for the immediate resumption of consultations between civilians and military.

The Chairperson reaffirms that dialogue and consensus is the only relevant path to save the country and its democratic transition, Mr Mahamat said in a statement on Facebook.

Meanwhile, the UN special representative in Sudan, Volker Perthes, in a live broadcast, called on the security forces to immediately release those who have been unlawfully detained or placed under house arrest.

All parties must immediately return to dialogue and engage in good faith to restore the constitutional order, Mr Perthes said.

Likewise, the U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken described the militarys takeover as a betrayal of Sudans peaceful revolution.

The U.S. has halted $700 million in aid to Sudan, Reuters reported.

The nations embassy in Khartoum called on all actors who are disrupting Sudans transition to stand down, and allow the civilian-led transitional government to continue its important work to achieve the goals of the revolution.

The Secretary-General of the Arab League, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, also called on all Sudanese parties to fully abide by the constitutional document signed in August 2019.

He urged them to obey the pact which involved the international community and the Arab League, as well as the 2020 Juba Peace Agreement.

On its part, Sudans fellow Arab League neighbour, Egypt, through its foreign ministry, urged all parties in the brotherly nation of Sudan to exercise self-restraint and responsibility to prioritize the welfare of the country and national agreement.

Another Arab League member, Saudi Arabia, called for restraint, calm, de-escalation, and to preserve all the political and economic gains that have been achieved and all that aims to protect the unity of the ranks among all political components in brotherly Sudan.

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation said the arrest of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other leaders is completely unacceptable and represents a grave threat to the transition process in Sudan.

They must be released swiftly and the transition government restored to full operation, the foundation noted.
Over the weekend, the internet went abuzz with the claim that a former federal lawmaker, Dino Melaye, graduated as the best student at Baze Universitys Faculty of Law.

The university, located in Nigerias Federal Capital Territory (FCT), held its combined seventh and eight convocation ceremonies on Saturday, October 23, with at least three prominent Nigerian politicians among the graduands.

Ifeanyi Ubah, a current senator and governorship aspirant in Anambra State; Dino Melaye, a former senator and Osita Chidoka, a former minister of aviation, made headlines at the event.

While the convocation was ongoing, claims started circulating on various social media platforms that Mr Melaye graduated as the best student in the schools law faculty.

One of such claims by a group, Dorathy Bachor Lovers had over 3,000 likes and over 400 comments as of the afternoon of Monday, October 25.

Senator Dino Melaye Graduates From Baze University, Reportedly Emerges Best Graduating Law Student. Congratulations Sir, the post reads.

On ladunlaidinews.com and many other blogs, the story made headlines, with comments attesting to the academic prowess of the ex-lawmaker. Most of the blogs claimed Mr Melayes aide, Bode Gbadebo, published the claim on his Facebook timeline.

On Twitter, as other platforms, the news was greeted with mixed reactions. While many, who took the information as truth, hailed the academic prowess of Mr Melaye, a few others mocked the university for allowing a politician who likely did not attend many lectures to graduate as best.

Congratulations to you sir ,but he can never be the best graduating student, what then happened to the full-time student. Aleburu John commented on the Facebook post.

While the back and forth was ongoing, an image purportedly of the three politicians in a cramped classroom, writing an examination surfaced on the internet.

However, Dubawa ran a verification on the image and found it to be one of those classes the trio attended at the university.

As elections draw nearer, it is a common practice by Nigerian politicians to spread positive stories about themselves to attract popularity. This reality prompted Dubawa to run a fact-check on the claim and further trace its origin.

Verifying the main claim

Dubawa put a call to the universitys Registrar, Mani Ahmad, who requested a physical meeting to clarify issues.

On Monday, a Dubawa reporter visited the university where he was presented with graduation documents. The documents revealed Mr Melaye never graduated as the best student in law as claimed.

Although Mr Malaye actually graduated from the institution with a law degree, he was neither a first-class student nor the best graduating student from the faculty of Law.

Snapshots taken from the convocation booklets show Dino Malaye actually graduated from Baze University, Faculty of law but not as the best graduating student

Further details revealed that Rosemary Keccy Busari was the best graduating student from the faculty of law and not Mr Melaye as it was widely claimed.

Snapshot from the convocation booklet shows Rosemary Keccy Busari as the first-class student

Messages were sent to Mr Melayes known lines for comments on the falsehood spread in his name but no reply came from the ex-lawmaker.

Meanwhile, a review of Mr Melayes social media pages revealed that at no time did he make such a claim or lend support to publications to the claim.

Where did this claim emanate from?

Meanwhile, Dubawa took a step further to reveal the source of the claim. The closest to this was the claim by Ladun Liadi News that an aide to the politician posted the claim.

Mr Melayes aide, Bode Gbadebo, posted a picture of him on Facebook, alongside other individuals adorned in an academic dress, with the caption Senator Dino Melaye graduates from Baze University, emerges best graduating law student, a paragraph in the story reads.

First, this fact-checker checked the Facebook page of Mr Gbadebo, who described himself as Online Editor at Leadership News back till October 20. Although the journalist made several comments within the period, none was attributed to Mr Melaye or his graduation. At that point, it could not be ascertained if Mr Gbadebo deleted any post within this period.

In a telephone conversation on Monday, Mr Gbadebo denied being an aide to Mr Melaye or the author of the claim as widely circulated.

No, it is not true, he said. I am not a spokesman to the senator and I did not publish the statement. It first appeared on Samuel Ogundipe Peoples Gazette and became viral. Please I did not publish that, its false.

The story on Peoples Gazzete was titled, Despite living in Dubai, Dino Melaye emerges best graduating student at Baze University.

Despite rarely being in Nigeria after losing his reelection into the national assembly in 2019 and currently based in Dubai, it is surprising that the former senator did not only graduate but was awarded the best graduating student with a yet to be confirmed GPA, the story reads in part.

However, in a follow up story, Peoples Gazette claimed Mr Gbadebo and Mr Melaye misled the publication as newly emerging information showed that the lawmaker graduated with weak second-class lower.

Dubawa contacted the Editor of Peoples Gazette, Mr Ogundipe, who explained that his paper contacted both Mr Gbadebo and Dino Melaye before running the first story.

We got the story right from Bode Gbadebos Facebook post, Mr Ogundipe said. He posted it on his Facebook. We called Dino himself and he said Yes, yes, and then hung up, he said, insisting that Mr Gbadebo is Mr Melayes spokesperson.

In a subsequent conversation, Mr Gbadebo backtracked, saying he indeed shared a post with such a claim but was misled by Mr Melayes photographer who initially made the claim. He added that he deleted the photographers post, which he earlier shared, after he realised the claim was wrong.

On that Saturday, one of Senator Dino Malayes Photographer (his official Photographer) who was at the convocation. He actually posted that he got first class. He told us later that he assumed that was what he heard, so he posted (the information) with the picture and some of us who are close to him shared. Within the shortest time possible, maybe one hour, we called the senator to congratulate him which he denied so we had to pull it down, he said.

He gave the name of the photographer as Sam J Noni. Dubawa traced the Facebook page of Mr Noni and found the post was put up on Saturday, October 23, at 11.48 a.m.

Mr Noni did not reply to messages sent to him on Facebook.

To further back his claim, Mr Ogundipe sent Dubawa a screenshot of Mr Gbadebos post which triggered the stories and social media comments.

The screenshot, which Dubawa confirmed was not doctored, showed that Mr Gbadebo indeed made a post, not shared as he claimed earlier.

Senator Dino Melaye Graduates from Baze University, Emerges Best Graduating Law Student, he wrote.

Dubawa could not confirm the time the screenshot was made and whether Mr Gbadebos post preceded that of the photographer.

Mr Gbadebo was confronted with the new information but again, he reworded.

Yes, the pictures and the post was (were) first shared by Dinos photographer. It was there I picked them from and posted to congratulate the Senator.

This is in contradiction with his earlier position that he never made the claim and subsequently that he only shared a post from the photographer. But the journalist still insisted that he was misled by Mr Noni for a claim he did not confirm before sharing.
Eight outstanding Nigerians in the UK, who have broken the glass ceiling have been honoured by the Nigerian-British Business Forum at a high profile event in London.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the awards highlight the outstanding performances of some Nigerians in the diaspora, who break the odds to excel in foreign lands.

Records show that approximately 114,000 Nigerians reside in the UK as at July this year.

The awardees include Ibironke Adeagbo, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of IA-Foundation, the international group campaigning for the rights of Nigerian children to education.

Mrs Adeagbo is also a renowned chartered accountant in Nigeria and UK as well as Nigerias special envoy on health and safety.

The eight awardees were recognised for making significant contributions in various fields of endeavours in both the UK and Nigeria.

At a ceremony presided over by the Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK, Sarafa Isola, in London at the weekend, the awardees were praised for making impacts in their professions and for putting Nigeria on the global map of excellence.

The event tagged Nigerian Achievers Awards also featured an exhibition and the launch of an 80-page Ambassadors Compendium, showcasing some Nigerians who have made the difference in the UK over the years.

Speaking at the event, Mr Isola expressed his excitement on the contributions being made by Nigerians in the UK, citing the exemplary achievements of the Nigeria-British Forum, which he said, had been at the forefront of promoting businesses between Nigeria and the UK.

Mr Isola assured that the Nigerian government would continue to collaborate with the UK to promote the business interests of both nations, dating back to hundreds of years before the British later colonized Nigeria.

Nigeria was a former colonial outpost of Britain and the latter was to amalgamate the former in 1914 to give birth to Africas most populous nation.

Other recipients of the awards are: Olutoyin Akande-Ajala, a Consultant Geriatrician; Funmi Adewara, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MobilHealth International and Mike Abiola, Publisher of the African Voice Newspapers.

The eight awardees

Also in the honours list are Bimbo Babarinde, Chief Operating Officer of Nigerian Schools Foundation, UK; Alistair Soyode, Founder of Ben TV, Femi Okutubo, Publisher of Trumpet Media Group and Peter Ozue, a Consultant Histopathologist.

A posthumous Life Achievers Award was also bestowed on Talabi Braithwaite, who was represented by his children.

The Nigerian Deputy High Commissioner to the UK, Suleiman Sani, and other top officials of the high commission were also at the event.

(NAN)
Google has launched the Global Initiative for Excellence in Journalism Education to enhance journalists training in 100 journalism institutions in Africa.

Matt Brittin, President for EMEA Business and Operations, Google made this known at the ongoing inaugural Google News Initiative (GNI) for Africa virtual event.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the GNI for Africa virtual events started that on Monday October 25 and will run through to Friday October 29.

Mr Brittin said that the initiative to support journalism training would be rolled out over the next 18 months and is being implemented in partnership with UNESCO.

He said that the journalism training is aimed at updating journalism education programmes in over 100 journalism institutions in Africa.

The pandemic has changed the way people interact with news and accelerated that shift to digital.

There has never been a time when access to good quality journalism has been more important; this programme will seek to establish, define, and implement the local definitions of excellence in journalism.

We will work with the 100 different journalism schools targeting to benefit over 4,000 journalists, he said.

He said that Google is increasing its investment in and support of journalism in Africa, including a News Lab Teaching Fellow who provides locally relevant training for journalists in Southern Africa.

According to him, there are programmes such as the Digital Growth Programme and Innovation Challenges which support publishers in their digital transformation.

Meanwhile, Mr Brittin said the GNI event brings together experts from Google and the industry to share tools, training and best practices.

He said it would reveal how small and medium-sized news organisations could grow their digital business and how to use consumer insights and data to better understand reader preferences and increase profitability and engagement.

According to him, Google has held two successful Innovation Challenges where Google supported 43 GNI projects in 18 countries.

(Anyone who would wish to attend the daily 45-minute sessions can use the link  https://events.withgoogle.com/gni-africa-event/)

Guy Berger, Director, Strategies and Policies, Communication and Information, UNESCO said that UNESCO would use its networks of established journalism schools to launch the collaborative programme.

Mr Berger said that the collaborative programme would enable journalists to better respond to the major changes in journalism and publishing in recent times.

At UNESCO, we have very different countries as members, with different approaches to journalism  but the one thing that at least they all agree on is that journalists should be well-trained, he said.

NAN also reports that the week-long virtual event will provide an opportunity for journalists, publishers, and content creators in Africa to find out more about Googles training programmes for journalists and news business professionals.

(NAN)
Nigerias former minister of education, Oby Ezekwesili, is set to launch Human Capital Africa (HCA), an accountability and advocacy initiative to improve early learning outcomes for children, across sub-Saharan Africa.

The launch is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, on the sideline of the ongoing Nigeria Economic Summit (NES27) which is tagged  Securing Our Future: The Fierce Urgency of Now.

The event will also feature guest speakers such as Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania; the Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, amongst other dignitaries.

About Human Capital Africa

Human Capital Africa seeks to bridge the gap between evidence and action to improve learning outcomes for children under the age of 10 and also to foster collaboration and cooperation across public and private sector leadership with civil society and the public to move human capital  starting with fixing foundational literacy and numeracy  to the centre of Africas development strategy.

According to Mrs Ezekwesili, HCA will also collaborate with a broad set of stakeholders across the continent, leveraging evidence-based advocacy to mobilize governments and policy makers to take actions that improve early learning outcomes for children and drive the accountability needed to deliver change at scale across sub-Saharan Africa.

The former minister said: This years theme for the Nigerian Economic Summit resonates strongly with HCAs vision to ensure all boys and girls in Sub-Saharan Africa have the necessary education and tools to live productive and meaningful lives.

Africas growing youth population makes this intervention necessary, if we are to reverse the downward learning trend and unlock the dividends that can only come when children can read for meaning and understand basic mathematics. We do not want the children of the poor to continue being left behind in failing public school systems and in turn growing into poverty in their adult life.

Also speaking about the initiative, former President of Malawi and Chairperson of HCAs advisory board, Joyce Banda said; Africa will soon be home to more than 50 per cent of the worlds youth. We owe them the opportunity to be productive members of the workforce, contributors to the global economy and society. This will not happen if nine out of ten of them do not achieve basic literacy and numeracy.
Chukwuka Ezenwune, the member representing Idemili South State Constituency in Anambra State House of Assembly, has defected from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mr Ezenwune announced his defection at the plenary on Tuesday.

The lawmaker said his defection from APGA was due to the lack of internal democracy and hijack of the party by few individuals.

He said he joined APGA in 2012 with the hope it would grow and become a national party with more governorship seats other than Anambra, but that so far it has been a case of one step forward, 10 steps backward.

Mr Ezenwune said he was ashamed of the projects in his constituency when compared to the volume of money that had accrued to it from the Federation Account and the state government budget in the past seven years.

I am happy to join the PDP which is well-organised and built beyond strong individuals.

READ ALSO: APGA explains why Anambra deputy governor defected to APC

I cannot point to the project in my local government area apart from the one I built as a constituency project and the Community Chose Your Project of the state government.

During the last Congress, I and my supporters were viciously sidelined, so I realised I have no future in APGA and I consulted with my people.

I have helped to build the party since I joined but I have to go because it is not the Igbo party like they are making people to believe, he said.

APGA had earlier lost six of its state lawmakers in Anambra to the All Progressives Congress, including the Deputy Governor of the state, Nkem Okeke.

(NAN)
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said 81,778 newly printed Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) are ready for collection in Anambra State.

The commission disclosed this in a statement titled Update on Preparations for the Anambra State Governorship Election signed by Festus Okoye, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, on Tuesday, in Abuja.

Mr Okoye said the newly printed PVCs included for newly registered voters and those who applied for replacement or transfer of their cards in the state during the just concluded first phase of the Continuous Voter Registration in the state.

He said the cards had been printed and would be delivered to the INEC office in Anambra State on Thursday.

In our previous update, the Commission informed the public that a total of 138,802 Nigerians completed the registration in Anambra State.

After a thorough cleaning up of the data, it was discovered that the number of multiple registrants was 62,698.

Consequently, the number of valid registrants dropped to 76,104.

During the same period, there were 5,674 requests for transfers, update of voter information and replacement of lost or damaged cards, giving a cumulative total of 81,778 PVCs.

These cards have been printed and will be delivered to our office in Anambra State on Thursday, October 28.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Anambra State and his staff shall work out the most efficient means of ensuring that the voters concerned collect their PVCs in earnest.

Fortunately, the Commission has the telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of all the new registrants. They will be contacted to make the collection seamless, Mr Okoye said.

The national commissioner said the commission met on Tuesday to review preparations for the state governorship election including the submission of a list of polling agents by political parties.

Section 45 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended) requires political parties participating in elections to submit the names and addresses of their polling agents, accompanied by two passport photographs and sample signatures of each polling agent to the commission at least 14 days before the date fixed for the election.

The last date for the submission of such a list for the Anambra Governorship election was 21st October 2021.

In line with the Commissions avowed commitment to deepen the use of technology in elections, a dedicated portal was designed for political parties to upload the names and other details of their polling agents for polling units.

Mr Okoye said it also included all the three levels of collation (Registration Areas/Wards, Local Government Areas and State collation).

A detailed breakdown of the submissions by political parties has been uploaded to the Commissions website and social media platforms for public information.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the released summary of polling unit agents released by INEC indicated that details of 6,068 agents were expected to be uploaded on INEC dedicated portal from each of the 17 parties participating in the election.

The summary showed that the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Social Democratic Party and Zenith Labour Party were the parties that uploaded details of that expected number of agents.

It showed that the All Progressives Congress uploaded details of its 6,012 agents, the Peoples Democratic Party 6,003, Young Progressives Congress 6,071, and Action Alliance 6,067 while Boot Party did not upload any details.

Mr Okoye assured the people of Anambra State of INECs determination to proceed with the conduct of the election.

The commissioner appealed to all the critical stakeholders and citizens in the state to cooperate with the commission for a successful exercise.

(NAN)
Sector Commander, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Bauchi State, Yusuf Abdullahi, says that two people lost their lives in an accident that occurred in Bauchi on Monday.

Mr Abdullahi told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Bauchi on Tuesday that one person sustained a serious injury in the accident.

He said that the accident occurred near Gubi campus of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, on Bauchi-Kano highway around 11:30 a.m., adding that it was caused by speed violation.

He said that the accident involved a Toyota Camry car, with registration number: BG 296 ABC and a Jincheng motorcycle with no registration number.

The sector commander said the motorcycle, which was carrying the rider and a passenger, was knocked down by the car, leading to instant death of the occupants.

Four people were involved in the accident and they were all males.

The Toyota Camry carrying two people knocked down the two people on the motorcycle and they lost their lives immediately.

The motorcyclist was trying to avoid a pothole but unfortunately, he ran into the car coming in the opposite direction.

Our men rushed to the scene when we were informed and took the victims to the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital, Bauchi for treatment, where the deceased were also confirmed dead by a medical doctor, he said.

Mr Abdullahi, who said that the identity of those on the motorcycle had yet to be ascertained, gave the name of the driver of the car as Aminu Danjuma.

He said that the corpses were deposited at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBU-TH) mortuary, while the injured person was being treated in the same hospital.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that items recovered from the accident scene including two android phones, the vehicle and the motorcycle were handed over to Motor Transport Department of Nigeria Police Force, GRA Division. (NAN)
President Muhammadu Buhari has arrived Riyadh, Saudi Arabia ahead of the investment conference organised by the Future Investment Initiative Institute.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the presidential aircraft carrying the president and some members of his entourage landed at the King Khalid International Airport Riyadh at about 11.00 p.m. local time.

The president was welcomed at the airport by a team of Saudi government and Nigerian Embassy officials, some cabinet ministers from Nigeria as well as some members of Nigerian community in Saudi Arabia.

NAN reports that the president is expected to be joined at the 5th edition of the flagship investment event by business executives from Nigeria, bankers, captains of industry and energy experts to discuss issues on the future of investments across the globe.

According to an earlier statement on the summit, reissued by Garba Shehu, spokesman of the president, on Monday in Abuja, the three-day event, with the theme, Investment in Humanity, would host global executives and asset managers.

It would deliberate on progress and prosperity with energy; true final frontiers in investments; science in action; and impact of climate change on communities among others.

Mr Shehu said the president would perform the lesser Hajj in Madinah and Makkah before returning to the country on Friday.

Those accompanying the president on the trip include the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Niyi Adebayo; Minister of Communications; Digital Economy, Isa Pantami, and Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Zubairu Dada.

Others are the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva; Director-General of National Intelligence Agency, Ahmed Rufai, and Managing Director of Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, Uche Orji.

Some of the invitees from the private sector include Mohammed Indimi, Aliko Dangote, Tope Shonubi, Wale Tinubu, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Hassan Usman, Omoboyode Olusanya, Abubakar Suleiman, Herbert Wigwe, Leo Stan Ekeh, Alan Seinfield and Dahiru Mangal.

(NAN)
The governors of Kaduna and Ondo states, Nasir El-Rufai, and Rotimi Akeredolu, have disagreed on the likelihood that the ban on open grazing will address the constant farmer/herder clash across the nation.

Speaking during a plenary session at the Nigerian Economic Summit in Abuja on Tuesday, Mr Akeredolu said the practice of open grazing is not ideal for Nigeria.

Countering Mr Akeredolu, Mr El-Rufai claimed the nomadic grazing is a culture that cannot be put away easily.

The Southern Governors Forum had banned open grazing in the 17 southern states. This was part of the 12 resolutions reached by the governors at a meeting they held in May 2021.

Open grazing of cattle has often caused conflicts between host communities and itinerant herders, leading to several deaths in many states.

Mr Akeredolu said state governments decided to take up the task of securing their citizens after the Nigerian justice system failed to do so.

The open grazing ban in the South is not an issue of sentiments or ethnicity gains but the government has the right to protect the people. We will not allow anyone to destroy our farmers, he said.

Our justice system is faulty, we have a police system that is not willing to make arrests. But with the introduction of the Amotekun outfit in the south west, if any herder trespasses on peoples farmland, they will be arrested.

In Ondo State, we dont have terrorism. Our problem is farmer/herder clashes and kidnap for ransom.We have drug abuse and agitation for self determination. We have always preached multi-level policing in Ondo State. We believe in layers of security.

Today, if you trespass on other peoples land, the Amotekun will go after you and arrest you. They pay compensation to the farmers and when they fail they are in court. It is the only way you can send signals to the people.

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When you commit a crime and the hands of law dont catch up with you, another person will repeat it. I can assure you that when you do not have an effective policing system, there is little or nothing a governor can do. And the criminal trial is taking too long, Mr Akeredolu said.

He spoke of the need for a multi-level policing that promotes independent security outfits to ensure security in states.

Mr El-Rufai alleged that the open grazing ban by the southern governors is a political drive.

Building ranches and creating incentives for herders is the solution to the farmer/herder crisis. There is enough land for ranching in Nigeria, he said.
The consideration for a state pardon for Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni leaders, who were executed in 1995 by the Sani Abacha-led military administration, has been rejected by the Ken Saro-Wiwa Foundation.

President Muhammadu Buhari gave the hint of the possibility of granting state pardon for Mr Saro-Wiwa and others while receiving some Ogoni leaders at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Friday.

Mr Buhari spoke of the need for clemency and national integration as part of this administrations bid to lay the foundation for genuine reconciliation and bring closure to the issues of Ogoni land.

The unfortunate incidents of the early 1990s leading to the loss of lives of distinguished sons of Ogoni land and the collateral judicial processes are indelible in our memories.

In spite of the grievous circumstances, the federal government will consider the request for the grant of pardon to finally close the Ogoni saga, the president said to the Ogoni leaders, led by the President of the Supreme Council of Ogoni Traditional Rulers, Godwin Giniwa.

Mr Buhari asked the Ogoni leaders to educate the people in the communities on the need for them to protect oil pipelines and other oil installations.

He said the federal government was committed to the cleanup of Ogoni land and other parts of the Niger Delta, an exercise which appears to be rather too slow since Mr Buharis administration flagged it off five years ago, in June 2016.

Ken Saro-Wiwa, others were not criminals

Ken Saro-Wiwa and the other eight Ogonis were not criminals. They were innocent activists unjustly murdered for fighting for a just cause on behalf of their oppressed community, Ken Saro-Wiwa Foundation said in a statement issued on Sunday in a reaction to President Buharis remark.

The statement, signed by Owens Wiwa, a younger brother to late Mr Saro-Wiwa, on behalf of the board of directors of the foundation, said neither the foundation nor Mr Saro-Wiwas family had authorised any individual to ask for pardon or clemency for the late environmentalist and playwright.

The foundation said they were not aware of any group of Ogonis making such a request.

The path to true peace in the region begins with justice. The cleaning up of the environment for which they campaigned and died for, is a first good step.

The exoneration of Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other Ogoni activists, judicially murdered on November 10, 1995, is another step towards peace.

The family of Ken Saro-Wiwa have made a request for the exoneration of Saro-Wiwa to the President in the past and are still waiting for a response. We urge the President to again consider this request as a path to justice and peace, the statement said.

Accused of being responsible for the murder of four Ogoni chiefs at a pro-government meeting, Mr Saro-Wiwa and the others were sentenced to death by hanging by a special military tribunal.

Several Nigerians believe Mr Saro-wiwa and the others were framed up for the murder because of their very impactful non-violent campaign against oil extraction and the continuous degradation of the Ogoni land by the government-backed multi-national oil companies, especially the Royal Dutch Shell.
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Tanko Muhammad, says the legal profession will not lead the country if lawyers and judges indulge in reckless behaviour in their official duties.

Mr Muhammad spoke on Tuesday in Abuja while swearing in Husseini Baba-Yusuf as the substantive Chief Judge of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court, Abuja.

His assertion is coming on the heels of the Annual General Conference of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which is taking place in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State.

The CJN spoke against the backdrop of The NBAs 61st AGC tagged Taking the Lead.

He said the legal profession should take the lead in all human endeavours but pointed out the impediments.

We cannot take the lead when our courts issue ex-parte orders recklessly. We cannot take the lead when many litigants with support of their counsel engage in forum shopping.

We cannot take the lead when counsel file a case before a court that they know lacks jurisdiction and the Judge proceeds to hear the case. We cannot take the lead when counsel files frivolous cases in our courts just for nuisance value or to buy time, Mr Muhammad said.

It will be recalled that the CJN had in September warned heads of courts to prevail on their colleagues to stop the gale of conflicting orders that had hit the judiciary, which he described as nonsense.

The CJN recalled his warning to judges to desist from engaging themselves in unwholesome practices that will erode public confidence in the administration of justice.

Calling for self-assessment and cleansing, the CJN said: All hands must, therefore, be on deck from both the bar and the bench to rid the legal profession of bad eggs.

He added that the administration of justice is the bedrock of not only democratic or civilised societies, but it also extends beyond the borders of civilised nations.

No society can afford to discard administration of justice, Mr Muhammad concluded.

Charge to new Chief Juge

In his charge to the Mr Baba-Yusuf, the CJN reminded him of the huge responsibilities on his shoulders, saying As head of court, your burden becomes heavier.

Mr Muhammad urged the substantive CJ of the FCT High Court to be just and fair to your brother Judges, the management, staff, and most importantly to the litigants.

Mr Baba-Yusuf was sworn in an acting capacity in August after a 10-day vacuum occasioned by President Muhammadu Buharis trip to the United Kingdom, a situation that left lawyers and Nigerians in a quandary.

He replaced Garba Salisu who resigned to take up an appointment as the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute (NJI), the training institute for Nigerian judges and judiciary officials

Mr Salisus resignation paved the way for Mr Baba-Yusuf to be appointed the acting Chief Judge before the conclusion of the procedure for his appointment in substantive capacity.

The new Chief Judges swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday was attended by the Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, and the FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, among other dignitaries.

Profile

The 59-year-old Chief Judge, Mr Baba-Yusuf, was born in Ankpa Local Government Area of Kogi State on June 1, 1962.

He attended LGEA Primary School, Ankpa, from 1966 to 1971.

He also attended St Charles College between 1972 to 1976.

He had his A-Level education at the School of Basic Studies, Ugbokolo, Benue State, from 1977 to 1980.

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He gained admission into the University of Lagos in 1980, and obtained the LLB in 1983.

He proceeded to the Nigerian Law School and was called to the bar 1984.

He thereafter underwent the national youth service organised by the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) which he completed in 1985.

Mr Baba-Yusuf began his legal career by joinning the services of the Kogi State judiciary in 1985 as Magistrate Grade II and rose through the rank, becoming the Chief Registrar of the state High Courti in 1993.

He later joined the services of the FCT Judiciary on transfer of service same year, and was appointed High Court Judge in 1998.

The 59-year-old Baba-Yusuf will be the FCT judiciarys helmsman till his attainment of the retirement age of 65 in six years time.

He currently handles high-profile corruption cases, including the celebrated trial of the former National Security Adviser, Sambo Dasuki, with others accused of diverting funds meant for arms procurement under the ex-President Goodluck Jonathan administration.
The leadership of the Ambazonia Interim Government, a separatist group in Cameroon, has insisted that its agitations for a separate country has no similarities with that of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Samuel Sako, the leader of the group, said during a virtual press conference Sunday that they would not want to jeopardise their relationship with the Nigerian government because thousands of Southern Cameroonian refugees have benefitted from the countrys benevolence.

It is political suicide and a very wrong calculation for us to take any position that jeopardises the lives of 120,000 of our people who are enjoying the hospitality of Nigeria right now under the eyes of the government and security forces, said Mr Sako.

The IPOB, led by Nnamdi Kanu, who is facing charges of treasonable felony and terrorism before a Nigerian court, is a group in the countrys southeast agitating for a secession.

In August, Mr Sako had stated that the activists agitating for an independent Ambazonia have no alliance with IPOB, drawing harsh criticism from the Ambazonia Governing Council, another separatist group led by Ayaba Cho Lucas.

At Sundays press meeting, Mr Sako said the response from Mr Lucas does not carry any weight because he only represents a handful of Ambazonians.

The weight of any statement depends on who made the statement, not the content of the words, he said.

So if I say that Ambazonia doesnt have an alliance with IPOB, the weight of that statement depends on who I represent when I said so. This is the interim government, representing more than 90 per cent of the people of the Southern Cameroons.

The opposition in any nation can say anything but what matters is what the government says. And we say we dont have an alliance and we dont intend to have one because our fights are not the same. We dont want to be misunderstood.

No form of similarity

Mr Sako said that unlike the IPOB, the Ambazonian activists are not trying to break an existing country.

We dont want to go into those arguments, we dont even want to create any form of similarity because there is none.

A nation that was granted independence with internationally demarcated boundaries by the United Nations system went into a union with another country that has failed and we are restoring our independence.

We dont want to be misunderstood or compared to a false equivalent. So it does not work for us by any means to create an alliance that continues to perpetrate that misunderstanding which Paul Biya is building on.

Because all the nations of the world dont like the idea of secession, they just hate it from face value. But ours is not and we want to make that difference, so this is what it is.

Secondly, at the level that we are right now, we need nations that can recognise us because we are not trying to be independent, we have restored our independence. What we are looking for is recognition. If Biafra or IPOB recognises us, what is that going to change?

We need nations of the world to recognise us. Nigeria voted yes for our independence in 1961, in that Resolution 1608 of our independence.

So we would rather have Nigeria endorse our position to restore our independence than to have a group of activists or movement that is fighting to secede to recognise us. Politically, whats the calculation?

Since 2017, the southern part of Cameroon has been locked in a battle with the central government in Yaounde over its quest to have an independent nation. The southerners  who are mostly English-speakers  had a protest of their alleged marginalisation by the government in the majority-French country.

In response, President Paul Biya ordered a violent crackdown of the protesters.

Mr Sako said the southern Cameroonians voluntarily elected to join French Cameroon in 1961, but after the failed experiment, the latter began a forceful annexation of their territory.

Our problem is not one of secession, which is why we keep correcting the call of secession. Secession means to cut off something from a whole. We have never been one. We attempted to join in a flawed process that even failed before it started, he said.

And the union has not been a good one by every commonsense. Therefore, we are just restoring that which we had. We came into this failed union with our internationally-demarcated boundaries by the United Nations, the same body that grants independence to nations granted us independence and said we should join following a process which has not been followed by the same international community.

So we are restoring, from the time we came out to restore, I want to say all hell broke loose. We are being slaughtered like rats, they have called us rats, they have called us dogs and roaches in French Cameroon. They are killing us.

Humanitarian crisis

Mr Sako said many inhabitants of southern Cameroon are now living in exile as a result of the crackdown by the central government.

Let me give you the statistics: 500 of our villages have been burnt down, Im not talking about those villages now that have been abandoned since 2017, I mean burnt down to ashes, its happening right now as we speak, he said.

120,000 of our people are in Nigeria as refugees right now, and some are in Ghana, more than 2,000, and in other countries. Some of them have been able to cross the Mediterranean, we dont know where they are, in Cyprus, Mexico, many are dying in the process.

About 1.5 million of our people are hiding somewhere in the French Cameroon and about 10,000 of our people have disappeared. We dont know, it is likely they have been killed by the French Cameroon thugs and buried in mass graves.

We have had many massacres and any time we have these massacres there will be outcry here and there, few human rights organisations will say something, because these French Cameroon and their French masters are spending so much money to lobby in the continent, the United States, everywhere. We have had several massacres. They have burnt down more than 100 of our people in houses, in the process of burning the houses they burn our own people in there. Our lives dont matter to these people.

The Ambazonian leader narrated a story of how security officials shot dead a five-year-old child at a checkpoint in southern Cameroon.

They just shot the child, going to school, dressed in uniform, execution-style. This is what is going on and the world is indifferent.

Why this problem is persisting is because of impunity. These people feel like they can kill us. They have killed more than 30,000 of our people since 2017, those are armchair statistics, the reality is more than that because they have also blocked the way for any international community to come and carry out a fact-finding mission, any international organisation including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International.

How many more people have to be killed before the world wakes up? This is what was happening in Rwanda and the world was living in denial. After the genocide of the Tutsis, they came out with figures, 800,000 killed, maybe almost a million. Why did the world have to wait?

Why should Africa wait until we become a piece of statistics? Why should Africa not wake up while it is happening? This is not costing the nations of Africa anything, its just to speak out, for example, take this matter to the ICJ, oblige Cameroon for arbitration, because this matter is backed by United Nations resolutions, that is our plea to the continent.
Nigeria loses about US$2.9 billion yearly to tax waivers granted to multinational companies, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) indicated on Tuesday in Abuja.

Executive Director, CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani, made this known at the Pan African Conference on Combating Illicit Financial Flow (IFFs) to Bridge the Widening Inequality Gap.

Mr Rafsanjani added that Africa had lost US$1 trillion in illicit financial flows (IFFs), out of which US$50 billion is lost annually over the last 50 years.

He said that in spite of the huge loss to tax waivers, the government increased value-added taxes (VAT), which affected the poor more from 5 per cent to 7.5 per cent.

He said that IFFs connected with corruption, crime and tax evasion was an issue of increasing concern that reduced government revenue for financing sustainable development.

International Monetary Fund and World Bank have all expressed concerns over the likely sharp increase in inequality and poverty arising from the pandemic.

This is with estimates projecting that 42.1 per cent of the sub-region will be pushed into extreme poverty.

Worse yet, the World Bank further indicated that the poverty increase could take more than a decade to reverse, erasing all hopes of countries meeting their national development plan targets to reduce poverty and inequality by 2030.

On the other hand, the wealthiest people in the region fare differently, as the three wealthiest men in the region, who are all based in Nigeria, have seen their wealth expand from US$16.8 billion in March 2020 to US$23.2 billion by July 2021.

Mr Rafsanjani said that this was more than enough to fund a full vaccine programme for the entire West African population.

He said that the amount lost to IFFs in Africa is roughly equivalent to all of the official development assistance (ODA) received by Africa during the same timeframe.

Mr Rafsanjani said that these estimates might fall short of reality because accurate data do not exist for all African countries.

He added that these estimates often excluded some forms of IFFs that by nature were secret and could not be properly estimated, such as proceeds of bribery and trafficking of drugs, people and firearms.

The Registrar-General, Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Garba Abubakar, represented by Abdulhakeem Mohammed, the Director, Compliance, CAC, observed that the Pandora Papers exposure, in which Premium Times played a major role, proved that poverty, inequality, lack of infrastructure, and good governance have not been fully addressed.

Mr Abubakar said that the emergence of a legal framework and the deployment of an electronic register of beneficial owners of registered entities showed the political will to fight corruption.

Public Registers of Beneficial Ownership are important tools for advancing the fight against corruption, tax abuse, asset shielding, and illicit financial flows and so on.

Registers of beneficial owners are assisting in no small measure to expose corruption orchestrated by ultimate beneficial owners who ore individuals who ultimately own, control or benefit from registered corporate entities.

Tiawo Oyedele, Fiscal Policy Partner and Africa Tax Leader, in his keynote address, said that Nigeria and other African countries needed to review the tax rules to identify necessary changes in line with the global reform.

He said that this was because even if they were not signing the global reform, it would still impact on them.

Mr Oyedele also added that tackling illicit financial flows was a much bigger problem for Nigeria than tax avoidance.

He said that the level of tax evasion in Nigeria is alarming, adding that South Africa just released their tax results and they collected N34 trillion equivalent in the pandemic.

He added that Nigeria had never collected one or seven trillion naira with all its states and agencies put together.

He said that in Nigeria, it was the wrong people that were paying taxes, the minimum wage earners struggling to make ends meet, adding that those were the people exempted from paying tax in other countries.

Mr Oyedele said that this had led to inequality and it needed to be addressed.

He said that Nigeria needed global cooperation, especially with respect to exchange of information, to curb tax evasion, when people steal in Nigeria and take them abroad. (NAN)
The Nigerian government has accused the countrys media of undermining their ability to hold power accountable by unethically associating with politicians, alleging that some journalists were biased in the coverage.

Amid repeated attempts by the government to stifle free press, Information Minister Lai Mohammed on Tuesday said the government was concerned about being bullied and not the other way round.

The Nigerian press has a rich history of holding power accountable. This is not a surprise, considering that the Nigerian press is one of the most vibrant in the world. Yes, I didnt say that as a joke! Our experience as a government confirms this assertion, said Mr Mohammed at a session of the Nigerian Economic Summit titled Fourth Estate: Holding Power Accountable.

Whereas in many countries, the press is worried about being bullied by the government, here in Nigeria, it is the government that has to contend with endless bullying by the press.

Mr Mohammed said there is an increasing concern about the ability of the media to hold power to account.

This concern is due to a number of factors. One is bias. For example, there is a national television station here in this country that has, as one of its anchors, a partisan, a known opposition party man, he said.

Yes, the said anchor is also a journalist. But what kind of objectivity can we expect from such an anchor? No matter how professional he seeks to be, his partisanship will always be a blur. Can such anchor or his medium be trusted to objectively hold power accountable?

Another is the increasing propensity of the media in Nigeria to undermine their own watchdog role. Today, it is not uncommon to have media organisations hold annual award ceremonies. In most cases, their awardees are top officials of the same government they are supposed to hold accountable. Such awards include: Governor or Governors of the Year; Minister or Ministers of the Year; Politician or Politicians of the Year. Lets even forget the fact that the criteria for giving such awards are dubious, at best.

Lets forget that some of these awardees support the awarding organisations in one form or the other, especially during the awards.

To what extent can such media organisations hold their awardees, most of the top officials of government at all levels, accountable? Is this not antithetical to the watchdog role prescribed for the press in the constitution? he questioned.

Mr Mohammed has been in the lead of the Buhari administrations repeated attempts to stifle free speech and clamp down on the press. He backs legislation seeking government control of the media and social media, claiming the aim is to check hate speech and fake news.

Speaking Tuesday, Mr Mohammed repeated his position about the circulation of fake news.

He said there are presently hundreds of online newspapers that churn out the news that are neither verified nor balanced.

And society believes this fake news or misinformation and runs with it, he said.

For example, during my recent official trip to the U.S. to engage with the international media, one online news website published that the purpose of the trip was to engage with Twitter.

This fake news was published without recourse to my office to even double-check the purpose of the trip. And of course, many gullible people believed it. Can a media organisation that engages in fake news and misinformation uphold the constitutional role prescribed for the media? Can you be a watchdog when you are a dog of fake news and misinformation? Is it not said that he who must come to equity must come with clean hands?

There is therefore what I will call the urgency of now for the media to look inwards and engage in self-scrutiny in order to remove those things that inhibit its ability to perform its constitutional role, he said.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has shut 27 water companies over non-compliance with rules and regulations on quality assurance.

The Director-General of NAFDAC, Mojisola Adeyeye, said the action was part of the agencys efforts towards sustaining good hygiene in the packaged water industry.

Mrs Adeyeye said this at the National Convention of the Association for Table Water Producers of Nigeria (ATWAP) in Abuja on Tuesday. She was represented by the director, public affairs, NAFDAC, Jimoh Abubakar.

Between January and August this year, we have shut down 27 packaged water industries that are not compliant, they are under seal, they have been sealed up and they will have to comply with good manufacturing practices before they are reopened, she said.

The event is themed; Developing a packaged water industry as a catalyst to economic growth and a greener economy in Nigeria.

Water industry

Mrs Adeyeye said the package water industry is a multi-billion naira business that the agency is taking seriously.

Apart from the economic benefits, the health benefits are overwhelming and when you get it right, you would have gained a lot in terms of NAFDAC contribution to guarantee an overall health care development system.

Thats why NAFDAC ensures that there is an absolute commitment to the issue of quality and standard, she said.

She also said NAFDAC has registered 2,153 new water factories in the country between January and august, 2021.

In the recent past, between January and August, 2021, we have over 2,153 water manufacturing outlets that have registered in Nigeria.

We are here to partner with the industry and tell them that NAFDAC cannot do it alone, for them to help us to fish out the erring ones because they know the criminal elements in their midst and the illegal outfits that are operating.

Illegal producers

In her remarks, the national president of ATWAP, Clementina Ativie, said quacks and illegal producers are some of the major challenges confronting the water industry.

ALSO READ: NAFDAC warns Nigerians against storing food in chemical containers

She noted that poor electricity supply in some areas of the country is also challenging for the industry.

Poor electricity supply; making us to depend on diesel powered generators with additional cost on production, multiple taxation and overlapping functions by government agencies at all levels,  she said.

She said despite all these challenges, the industry is still pushing to give the Nigerian populace wholesome results.

Ms Ativie explained that ATWAP members are well over 16,000 producers nationwide.

She said each producer employs an average of 15 people directly and about 15 more people indirectly.

We therefore employ close to one million, six hundred thousand people along the water production value chain, which includes distribution, retailing and waste management.
The presentations of the tech startups included on EDU-VR, a virtual reality platform for education by Ibrahim Arome; Fascinate Technologies, a smart waste management system by Chijioke Ngige; Trail, a GPS app that has a live camera for monitoring children while being transported to schools by Malumi Opeyemi; RINET, a research and innovative network solution for detecting and fighting plagiarism, by Usman Murtala

A multitude of top-class tech innovators, investors, corporate and government representatives, users and buyers, and international media from across the globe converged on the Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai, United Arab Emirate (UAE) for the Gulf Information Technology Exhibition, GITEX 2021.

Renowned as the worlds biggest technology exhibition for Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, the grand showcase, which was held from October 1721, with the theme: Creating a Bolder Digital Future Together, had in attendance over 4,500 exhibitors, 400 investors and 150,000 trade visitors from 140 countries.

Heads of government agencies and high-ranking officials from the different geographies shared their digital transformation roadmaps, technological aspirations, and opportunities in their countries quest for innovation and knowledge, transformation and excellence, towards achieving advanced digital economies.

The GITEX conference covered a broad lineup of tech-related topics, including digital (smart) cities and artificial intelligence; education (edtech); healthcare (healthtech); energy and utilities; data economy and cybersecurity. Others included fintech and blockchain; telecoms and 5G; future mobility; marketing mania and startups.

Notably, the GITEX has continued to serve as a meeting point for the global startup movement, to connect with some of the worlds leading tech mentors, angel investors, and venture capitalists.

This years event captured the interconnected or hyperconnected power of technology in the top six shows: GITEX; GITEX Future Stars; AI Everything; Future Blockchain Summit; Fintech Surge and Marketing Mania.

National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), selected nine innovative tech-driven startups with solutions to problems in the areas of AI and Augmented Analytics; Transportation; Digital Economies; 5G; Cyber Security and Resilience; Cloud and Edge computing, and Blockchain technology.

However, Future Stars tops the billing as the most outstanding tech show that helps to set the stage for the next-level success of tech startups that participated in the five-day global tech expo and conference.

Being a major component of GITEX, GITEX Future Stars featured over 700 transformational tech startups from 60 countries, alongside 400 powerful investors and venture capitalists, who will help to redefine their (startups) future capacity to sustain societal impact and economic viability.

Nigeria, through the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), has been participating in the event since 2013 to build collaborations and explore opportunities to facilitate the digital transformation of the nations economy.

In the last six years, the agency has sustained its support for Nigerian startups through sponsorship of over 50 startups to showcase their innovative tech solutions to societal problems at GITEX Future Stars Pavilion.

NITDA, through its subsidiary, National Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (NCAIR), selected nine innovative tech-driven startups with solutions to problems in the areas of AI and Augmented Analytics; Transportation; Digital Economies; 5G; Cyber Security and Resilience; Cloud and Edge computing, and Blockchain technology.

Once again, NITDA used this years GITEX to unveil nine startups, their innovative tech solutions to emerging or existing problems, and the young innovators behind these promising Nigerian tech companies.

The global forum provided a veritable stage for tech professionals and enthusiasts to celebrate the fusion of technology and the creative economy, and the dynamic innovators and tech revolutionaries disrupting the fields of fashion, sports, music, and art.

These Nigerian startups were able to make presentations to the global audience, with the possibility of attracting mentors and potential investors, who find their technological applications capable of having a worldwide impact.

The presentations of the tech startups included on EDU-VR, a virtual reality platform for education by Ibrahim Arome; Fascinate Technologies, a smart waste management system by Chijioke Ngige; Trail, a GPS app that has a live camera for monitoring children while being transported to schools by Malumi Opeyemi; RINET, a research and innovative network solution for detecting and fighting plagiarism, by Usman Murtala; and Bridging Safe, a technological intervention on health therapy for solutions to mental health challenges.

Others are Fuel Intellisense, an automated tank gauge to guard against the fraudulent dispensing of fuel by Tolu Abikehin; HalalVest, a fintech tool for saving, borrowing, insuring, and investing in a business by Oguntoyinbo Abdulazeez Femi; Agricon, an agricultural backed cryptocurrency platform by Usman Waziri Isa, as a catalyst for financial inclusion within the agricultural value chain and Chopwork by Akoh Jerry Ejiga for job creation and efficient service delivery.

In addition to the various tech shows and exhibitions, the GITEX 2021 introduced new platforms such as GITEX YouthX, for the cultivation of young tech talents with an annual creative programme to bring them closer to the practitioners ecosystem and the YouthX Unipreneur, exclusively for connecting university students with startups, companies, and governments.

The global forum provided a veritable stage for tech professionals and enthusiasts to celebrate the fusion of technology and the creative economy, and the dynamic innovators and tech revolutionaries disrupting the fields of fashion, sports, music, and art.

Very hopefully, the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy and the IT regulator NITDA would continue to leverage the GITEX to showcase Nigerias dynamic startup ecosystem to the global market, while also building a sustainable environment for our startups to thrive at home.

Inyene Ibanga writes from Wuye District, Abuja.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Florence Obi, has offered scholarships to 10 Cameroonian refugees in Cross River.

Mrs Obi announced the scholarships on Tuesday in Calabar shortly after inaugurating the universitys renovated Infectious Disease Research Laboratory.

The laboratory was renovated and handed over to the university by the United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR).

The vice-chancellor described the scholarships as one of the ways to support the UNHCR to achieve its mandate of providing succour for refugees.

She commended the agency for donating the research laboratory.

The research laboratory was donated to the Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, University of Calabar, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

Mrs Obi described the refurbishing of the laboratory as a dream come true since the university had over the years craved for such a research facility.

The laboratory will promote medical research. I want to assure the UNHCR that the institution will put the laboratory into good use.

While we commend the UNHCR for this great feat, we also want to extend our hands of fellowship by giving scholarships to 10 refugees.

You have solved one of our major problems and the university is ready to also support you in the area of education, she said.

The vice-chancellor noted that the institution was looking forward to strengthening ties with the UNHCR, and would explore other areas of partnership for mutual benefits.

Earlier, the Head of Sub-office, UNHCR, Ogoja, Tesfaye Bekele, said the COVID-19 pandemic created a global challenge that saw several institutions struggling to find answers to testing and research for treatment.

Mr Bekele said the challenge was the real reason UNHCR renovated and handed over the laboratory to the university.

While pledging UNHCRs continuous support and partnership with the university, he noted that the gesture was geared toward promoting effective research in the field of medicine generally.

He lauded the vice-chancellor for supporting 10 Cameroonian refugees with tuition-free access to university education.

The Provost of the College of Medical Sciences at the universitys teaching hospital, Victor Ansa, thanked the vice-chancellor for her support for the college, and commended the UNHCR for finding it thoughtful to support research.

In his remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, Martins Nnoli, commended the UNHCR for its magnanimity in donating the research laboratory to the university.

The laboratory comprises a reagent preparation room, extraction and amplification/detection rooms, immunology laboratory and mycobacteriology/mycology research laboratory.

(NAN)
A middle-aged man, Chibuike Ochie, has allegedly hacked to death his sister-in-law, younger sister and a labourer in Uburu community, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

The police spokesperson in Ebonyi, Loveth Odoh, confirmed the killing in a statement issued in Abakaliki on Monday.

Ms Odah, a deputy superintendent of police, said the incident occurred on Sunday in a farmland.

The police spokesperson said the man killed his sister-in-law, a younger sister and a hired labourer, who was working on their farmland.

According to the police, the suspects family, including a hired labourer, were in the farm, when the suspect, Mr Ochie, went into the farm and suddenly began attacking them with a machete.

He succeeded in macheting Ogechi Ochie, 32, and wife of the elder brother and the younger sister, Margaret Ochie, 35, and the said labourer.

The three persons were macheted to death on that farm and he escaped.

In the process of fleeing the scene, irate youths of that area caught and mobbed him.

As I am talking to you, he is still critically ill to the extent that he is placed on a life support machine.

Investigation is still on, but it will be properly done when this man survives.

That is why we keep discouraging the youth from taking laws into their hands especially when a person commits an offence like this.

If they had brought the person to us, he would have told us the reasons he had to do this to his family members and he would have faced the law.

But in this case, a lot of money is being spent to revive him, the police spokesperson said.

(NAN)
The Inspector-General of Police, Usman Alkali Baba, has deployed two deputy inspectors-general of police (DIG) and five assistant inspectors-general of police (AIG) to Anambra to help ensure adequate security for the November 6 governorship election in the South-east state.

The deployment is apparently a response to the general apprehension that the election may be disrupted by the pro-Biafra group, IPOB.

The spokesperson of the force headquarters, Abuja, Frank Mba, who announced the deployment in a statement on Tuesday in Abuja, said 14 commissioners of police, 31 deputy commissioners of police, and 48 assistant commissioners of police have also been deployed to the state.

Mr Mba, in the statement, described the deployment as a major overhauling of the security landscape in Anambra ahead of the election.

He said Joseph Egbunike, a deputy inspector-general of police, is to co-ordinate the security component for the election. He would be assisted by the acting deputy inspector-general of police in-charge of operations, Zaki Ahmed.

DIG Egbunike is saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the implementation of the Operation Order evolved from the Election Security Threat Assessment, to ensure a peaceful environment devoid of violence and conducive enough to guarantee that law abiding citizens freely perform their civic responsibilities without molestation or intimidation, Mr Mba said.

The police IG, Mr Baba, said the police are adequately prepared for the election, and that they would do everything within their powers to ensure a free and fair election in the state, the statement stated.

The IGP calls on citizens in Anambra State to come out en masse and exercise their franchise as adequate security has been emplaced to protect them before, during and after the elections, the statement added.

Babagana Monguno, the national security adviser (NSA) to President Muhammadu Buhari, on Monday cautioned IPOB against disrupting the election.

I want to reassure the general public that the security agencies are going to do everything within their power to ensure that the people of Anambra State undergo this exercise without any incident.

In the same vein, I want to offer a word of brotherly advice to our brothers and sisters in Anambra State who may want to use means, methods that are unorthodox and that are unusual to destabilise an already delicate situation, to please, think again, Mr Monguno, a retired major-general, said at the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security meeting organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission in Abuja.

The agitation for an independent republic, Biafra, which is being championed by IPOB, has led to killings and destruction in Nigerias South-east region.

The IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu, is facing trial for alleged treason. The group and its supporters are using a sit-at-home order to put pressure on the Nigerian government to release Mr Kanu from detention.
Kidnapping and COVID-19 pandemic are crippling hospitality business in the country, particularly in Ekiti, Abiodun Isinkaiye, a hotelier, has said.

Mr Isinkaiye said the hospitality business, which had been battling with the persistent issue of epileptic power supply in Nigeria, was worsened by the increasing cases of abduction and the outbreak of COVID- 19 pandemic.

The Proprietor of the Prosperous Royal Hotels and Resort said this on Monday, in Ado-Ekiti at a public lecture.

The programme was part of the activities of the 2021 Annual Public Lecture and Awards Presentation organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Correspondents Chapel, Ekiti Council.

He appealed to the federal government, led by President Muhammadu Buhari and the state governors, to work hard to curb the abduction of Nigerians by unknown gunmen.

He added that the recent trend in kidnapping had reduced the profit margin of every sector of the economy, with the hospitality sector being the worst hit.

Management of hotels business has always been a problem in Nigeria in view of epileptic electricity supply we have been facing for long.

We rely on diesel-powered generators as a source of power, which reduces our profit margin because power supply has to run for 24 hours, to give our customers comfort.

As we are still trying to cope with that, the COVID- 19 and kidnapping surfaced. The two have really negatively affected the hospitality business in Nigeria. In fact, we cant quantify the hardship that we are facing in the sector, Mr Isinkaiye said.

He further said since the two phenomena started, the business environment had changed; adding that the number of visitors to their facilities reduced with the fear that they could be kidnapped or come in contact with the deadly virus.

When those who are visiting the state from the government or corporate bodies are to be in large numbers, such are now cut down significantly; because of these recent challenges and these are the people whose patronage we strongly rely on mostly.

It has not been easy with us operating this business in recent times. We are no more getting visitors and the few ones we get must be safe and secured, meaning we have to also invest more in providing security so that our visitors will not be kidnapped, he added.

The hotelier also said they had to comply with governments directives on the enforcement of COVID- 19 protocols in all their facilities by investing more in buying sanitisers and other necessities, thereby spending a huge amount of money.

Mr Isinkaiye, however, described hospitality as a reliable employment-generating sector in the country, and called on the government at all levels to give hoteliers the necessary assistance for their survival in the business.

(NAN)
The police in Ekiti on Monday said it had rescued five commuters abducted by suspected bandits on Ayedun-Ilasa-Ayebode Road in Ikole Local Government area of the state.

The command Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, confirmed the development to journalists in Ado-Ekiti.

They were released around Ikole-Ekiti in Ikole Local Government area following an effort by our operatives and other agencies.

The pressure was much on the kidnappers to the extent that they had to let the victims go.

Efforts are still on to apprehend the kidnappers for prosecution in order to ensure (the) safety of the people.

We advise that people should be security conscious and make sure that they report all suspected people around their environment to the security agencies, especially the police, he said.

The five abducted commuters were said to have been released on Sunday and no one could confirm whether ransom was paid or not.

The victims were kidnapped on Thursday from various locations in Ilasa and Ayebode during coordinated attacks by bandits terrorising the axis in recent times.

The bandits had engaged some military men, who came to rescue the victims, in a fierce battle.

The bandits later escaped through the nearby bush.
The APC State Congress Appeal Committee for Lagos State, has appealed to aggrieved members of the party to reunite against infiltration by the opposition.

The chairperson, State Congress Appeal Committee, Fatima Umar, made the appeal at a special meeting with party chieftains to resolve all fallouts from its October 16 state congress at the partys secretariat on Acme Road, Ikeja, on Monday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that splinter groups within the Lagos APC, held parallel ward, LGA and State congresses on July 31, September 4, and October 16 respectively, producing separate lists of party executives.

Mrs Umar said the committee was put together by the national headquarters of the party to look into any petition or complaints any group might have after the state congress.

We are here to right the wrongs and heal the wounds. We can always iron things out as a family. When there is unity, we can achieve great things as a family.

You dont throw away your family because you are upset. You dont throw away your family because things do not go your way.

We should not allow any disagreement within the family to distract us from our noble cause. I will operate an open-door policy. Please feel free to tell us what went wrong so that we can fix it, she said.

Mrs Umar, who led the five-man committee, urged all members to forgive one another so that the party could move forward.

Lagos is an example of what unity in a political party can achieve. Lagos is an example of what progressive leadership can achieve.

Please, we are here at your service and we look forward to hearing from you, and we look forward to interacting with you.

We should not be careless enough to let wicked people to take our country back. We have started the path to recovery. We are on the path to recovery.

I want us to keep the faith so that we dont derail from that path, the chairman added.

According to her, as progressives, members of the party should obey the rule, do the right things and follow due process and comply with guidelines to help the committee.

She said the stay of the committee in the state depended on the volume of petitions received, saying the committee would not be in a hurry nor do shady work.

Mrs Umar said the committee would start collecting petitions from Tuesday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., saying submission of petitions might likely close on Wednesday.

Mrs Umar also said the committee would make recommendations to the APC National Caretaker Committee, which would take the final decision.

Speaking, Fouad Oki of the Democrats Group, one of the aggrieved groups, said that if nothing was done about the grievances and fallouts of various state congresses, it might have an impact on the outcome of the 2023 general elections in the state.

Mr Oki expressed hope that the committee chairperson would stand by her words of looking at the process, the law guiding the process and the partys constitution.

He said all aggrieved groups were trying to exhaust all conflict resolution mechanisms before taking the next actions.

Also, Jimi Shobayo of the Conscience Forum, another aggrieved group within the party, told the committee that there were contending factions in the state party, calling for fairness, equity and justice.

Mr Shobayo lamented that various aggrieved groups within the party had not received results of the ward and local government areas congresses, set up by the national headquarters of the party.

Let justice and equity be the watchword. What we are contending for is that there must be inclusiveness in the Lagos APC.

APC in Lagos is one big family and what we are seeing today are minor issues and I believe they can be resolved. We are open to reconciliations, he said.

Also speaking, Sunday Ajayi, of the Lagos4Lagos Movement, another splinter group in the party, expressed doubt that the members would get fair treatment.

Mr Ajayi said his group was not pleased with the constitution of groups invited for the meeting by the committee.

We want the committee to sit tight and have a rethink. We have presented our petitions, Mr Ajayi said.

(NAN)
At the request of President Andrzej Duda, humanitarian aid will be sent to Belarus to help migrants stuck at the border, a presidential aide said on Saturday.

Bogna Janke also said that Duda appealed to Belarusian authorities to accept the aid - two previous consignments having been refused - as well as for common sense and humanitarian treatment of people stuck at the border.

Poland has been experiencing heightened migratory pressure at its border with Belarus in recent months, accusing Belarus's President Alexander Lukashenko regime of engineering the crisis by bringing in Middle Eastern and African migrants with the promise of onward travel to the EU.

Taking part in a briefing at the premises of the Government Strategic Reserves Agency, Janke said that after receiving a report from the government and security services on the situation at the border, Duda had raised the initiative of gathering and transporting humanitarian aid.

"The prime minister took up the initiative and that transport will go today to the border crossing," Janke said.

"President Andrzej Duda appeals to the Belarusian authorities to accept that humanitarian aid for people who are camped in that country, lured by the promise of entering the EU and unfortunately stuck in Belarus," Janke told the briefing. "Due to the cold and the weather, the president appeals to the Belarusian government for common sense and humanitarian behaviour towards those people." (PAP)
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Spencer , by acclaimed director Pablo Larrain and writer Steven Knight, stars Kristen Stewart in the role of Princess Diana in a performance that has garnered high praise as well as high expectations for awards season. The story takes place in a pivotal life-changing weekend for Princes Diana over the Christmas holidays in the early 1990s. Ahead of Spencer 's highly anticipated theatrical launch in US and UK cinemas on November 5, a trailer has been released, giving glimpses of a number of the jewelry items to feature in the movie, including a blue sapphire and diamond engagement ring, featuring 1.82 carat of diamond and 7.25 carat of sapphire, reminiscent of Princess Diana's own iconic engagement ring.

Mouawad was a natural choice as the exclusive jewelry sponsor for Spencer based on its 131 years of heritage of craftsmanship in fine jewelry and watchmaking, and its renown as the jeweler of choice to royalty and to celebrities across the world.

Fourth generation Mouawad Co-Guardians, Fred, Alain and Pascal Mouawad, commented: "Mouawad has an illustrious heritage in jewelry and watchmaking, and over the decades has been the choice for royalty and celebrities when seeking a unique statement piece or set of jewelry, as well as often being called on by royal protocol offices to create notable gifts to be presented to heads of state, presidents, and prime ministers. It has been a pleasure to work on Spencer, providing the jewelry for the role of an iconic princess known for her style as well as her powerful impact on the world."

Contact: Elena Gramatica egramatica@twisterme.ae +971526923606

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1669161/Mouawad_Kirsten_Stewart_Princess_Diana.jpg

SOURCE Mouawad
SEATTLE, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Oilfield chemicals are specialized chemical substances that are usually used in oil & gas exploration & production activities. They are prepared for application in oilfield projects based on their suitability for the project and its environment. This means that they are prepared for any type of operating or non-operating conditions. These chemicals are being prepared in advance for ground applications, such as cold processing or hot process operations to avoid unacceptable accidents and meet the client's specifications.

The global oilfield chemicals market is estimated to account for 94,069.7 Mn in terms of value by the end of 2027, witnessing a CAGR of 5.5%.

Get Sample PDF Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/332

Market Drivers:

Growing application of such chemicals from well stimulation enhanced oil recovery, and drilling fluids is primarily fuelling growth of the oilfield chemicals market. Research suggests that globally, Enhanced Oil Recovery has the potential to produce an incremental 1,070 billion barrels of oil and store up to 320 billion tons of carbon dioxide. Thus, growing such applications is expected to drive growth of the market.

Rapid growth in oil production and exploration activities is fostering growth of the oilfield chemicals market. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the U.S. dry natural gas production in 2020 was about 33.5 trillion cubic feet (Tcf), an average of about 91.5 billion cubic feet per day and the second-highest annual amount recorded.

Market Opportunities:

The increasing application of oilfield chemicals in the water treatment process is projected to provide lucrative growth opportunities. For instance, in February 2021, SUEZ has been awarded by Petroleum Development Oman, the oil & gas exploration and production company in the Sultanate, a Design-Build Own Operate and Maintain (DBOOM) contract for the treatment of 40,000 m3 each day of produced water coming from oil fields located in Rima, about 700 kms South of Muscat, capital of Oman. This 20-year contract is worth 120 million in total revenues.

Growing discovery of untapped oil & gas reserves is expected to bring bright market opportunities in the near future. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, producers in Alaska added 259 million barrels (MMBbl) of proved reserves of crude oil and lease condensate in 2019, the largest net increase in all states.

Market Trends:

Increasing launch of new product in market by key players is a major trend in the market. For instance, in October 2021, DuPont announced the launch of Kalrez OG193 perfluoroelastomers, a 95 durometer, FFKM compound that exhibits an excellent balance of properties for oil and gas applications. Kalrez OG193 combines best-in-class Rapid Gas Decompression (RGD) performance and chemical resistance with good low temperature and thermal stability.

Growing number of partnerships and collaboration among key players is another major trend in the market. For instance, in November 2018, Versalis, the wholly-owned subsidiary of Italian oil and gas major Eni, has formed a joint venture with Petrochem and Mazrui Energy Services to commercialize innovative chemicals for the oil & gas industry in the Middle East. Petrochem is a subsidiary of Mazrui Energy Services, which itself is part of Mazrui International, a family-owned company based in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). Similarly, in March 2020, Evonik Corporation partnered with IMCD as its distributor for chemicals used in the oil and gas upstream, midstream, and oil sands applications in the United States and Canada. The goal of this partnership is to reach and support its solutions for North American customers.

Buy This Latest Research Report Now @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/332

Competitive Landscape:

Key players operating in the global oilfield chemicals market are Royal Dutch Shell Plc, Baker Hughes Inc., Schlumberger Ltd., Halliburton, Weatherford International Ltd, Diamoco Group, Solvay S.A, and The Egyptian Mud Engineering & Chemicals Company.

Market segmentation:

Global Oilfield Chemicals Market, By Application:

Upstream

Drilling Chemicals



Cementing Chemicals



Production Chemicals



Workover & Competion (incl. Flowlines and Production Pipelines)



Stimulation Chemicals



Enhanced Oil Recovery Chemicals

Midstream

Flow Assurance



Cargo Additives



Water Treatment Chemicals



Desalting Chemicals



Slop Oil Movement



Others

Downstream

Petrochemical Additives



Refinery Process Chemical



Refinery and Finished Fuel Additive

By Geography:

North America

Europe

Asia Pacific

Latin America

Middle East

Africa

Need Customized Report? Please Visit @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-customization/332

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.

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SOURCE Coherent Market Insights
China has always been a builder of world peace, contributor to global development and defender of the international order, said President Xi Jinping in his speech at a commemorative meeting marking the historical event on Monday.

Remarkable five decades

Reviewing China's glorious journey with the UN, President termed the restoration of PRC's seat in the UN a victory for the people of China as well as the world.

It came as the result of joint efforts of all peace-loving countries that stood up for justice in the world and marked the return of the Chinese people, or some one-fourth of the world's population, back to the UN stage, which had far-reaching significance for China and the world, he said.

The past 50 years have witnessed China's peaceful development and its commitment to the welfare of all mankind, he added.

This year, China accomplished a complete victory in its fight against absolute poverty, realized the goal of building a moderately prosperous society in all respects and embarked on a new journey toward building a modern socialist country.

Since the restoration of its lawful seat in the UN in 1971, China has been playing a more active role in international affairs.

For instance, as the world's largest developing country and one of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, China has sent over 50,000 peacekeepers to UN peacekeeping operations and is now the second largest financial contributor to both the UN and UN peacekeeping operations.

New journey towards a better world

Urging all to follow the prevailing trend of history, President Xi stressed the importance of opposing all forms of hegemony, power politics, unilateralism and protectionism.

"We should vigorously advocate peace, development, equity, justice, democracy and freedom, which are the common values of humanity, and work together to provide the right guiding philosophy for building a better world," he said.

He then emphasized building of a community with a shared future for mankind  the country's flagship vision to collectively address current global challenges. People across the world are living in a "community of a shared future," Xi told the world for the first time in his speech in Moscow, Russia on March 23, 2013.

On Monday, he elaborated that building a community with a shared future for mankind does not mean replacing one system or civilization with another. "Instead, it is about countries with different social systems, ideologies, histories, cultures and levels of development coming together for shared interests, shared rights and shared responsibilities in global affairs, and creating the greatest synergy for building a better world," he said.

Highlighting the need for having mutual benefits and win-win results, he said development is meaningful only when it is for the people's well-being and can sustain only when it is motivated by the people.

In a statement delivered via video link at the General Debate of the 76th session of the UN General Assembly in September, Xi proposed a Global Development Initiative to steer development around the world towards more balanced, coordinated and inclusive growth in the face of the severe shocks of COVID-19.

Finishing his speech, he stressed the role of the UN and called on all countries to respect the UN, take good care of the UN family, and refrain from exploiting it.

"Let us join hands, stand on the right side of history and the side of human progress, and work tirelessly for the lasting and peaceful development of the world and for building a community with a shared future for mankind," he said.

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2021-10-25/Xi-attends-event-marking-restoration-of-PRC-s-lawful-seat-in-UN-14DOanrXxcs/index.html

Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uq7ci1Iy0Xs

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SOURCE CGTN
a2 Milk comes from cows that naturally produce only the A2 protein rather than the combination of A1 and A2 proteins contained in most dairy products. Published research suggests a2 Milk that naturally contains the A2 protein may help avoid stomach discomfort in some people. That feature, as well as strong sales in the overall premium milk category, have helped the company achieve multiple years of double-digit growth including a remarkable 30% growth rate in the U.S. in its last fiscal year.

Coupling a2 Milk with Hershey's cocoa creates a chocolate milk with Hershey's classic taste, 8 grams of protein per serving, and no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.

"Premium milk buyers appear to want three things from chocolate milk: taste, quality and natural ingredients," said Blake Waltrip, CEO of The a2 Milk Company U.S. "Partnering with the iconic Hershey's brand, and using Hershey's well known cocoa in this new product guarantees great chocolate taste pairing this with high quality a2 Milk seals the deal in terms of delivering a delicious product that may help some consumers avoid stomach discomfort, and that all consumers can feel good about giving their families. With this partnership, we have taken chocolate milk to a whole new level."

"This new chocolate milk is the latest example of how we are expanding The Hershey Company in to expanded better-for-you categories," said Ernie Savo, Senior Director of Global Licensing, The Hershey Company. "Partnering with The a2 Milk Company not only aligns us with a brand that is synonymous with quality and rapid growth but also selling a product that is a staple in almost every family's refrigerator. It's an excellent co-branding opportunity that we expect to yield strong results."

About The a2 Milk Company

The a2 Milk Company was founded in 2000 in New Zealand by Dr. Corran McLachlan after scientific research suggested that proteins in milk may affect some people differently. The company entered the U.S. market in 2015, works exclusively with U.S. farms that are Validus certified for animal welfare, and is now one of the fastest growing brands in the premium milk category in the U.S. with distribution in over 23,000 locations. a2 Milk comes from cows that naturally produce only the A2 protein. Published research suggests a2 Milk may help some people avoid stomach discomfort. For more information, visit a2milk.com

About The Hershey Company

The Hershey Company is headquartered in Hershey, Pa., and is an industry-leading snacks company known for bringing goodness to the world through its iconic brands, remarkable people and enduring commitment to help children succeed. Hershey has approximately 17,000 employees around the world who work every day to deliver delicious, quality products. The company has more than 90 brands around the world that drive more than $8 billion in annual revenues, including such iconic brand names as Hershey's, Reese's, Kit Kat, Jolly Rancher, Ice Breakers, SkinnyPop, and Pirate's Booty. For more than 125 years, Hershey has been committed to operating fairly, ethically and sustainably. Hershey founder, Milton Hershey, created the Milton Hershey School in 1909 and since then the company has focused on helping children succeed. To learn more visit www.thehersheycompany.com

SOURCE The a2 Milk Company

Related Links

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http://www.thehersheycompany.com


REGINA, Saskatchewan, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Above Food Corp. (Above Food), a first-of-its-kind, vertically integrated, plant-based food company, announced today it has entered into a binding transaction agreement with Atlantic Natural Foods, LLC ("Atlantic")  a global market leader in plant-based seafood alternatives, plant-based simple meals, and plant-based egg replacements. The agreement has been unanimously and enthusiastically approved by the Board of Directors of both companies and is expected to close in Q1 2022.

The partnership is designed to address the most critical issues in the plant-based market today by using Above Food's seed-to-fork platform to sustainably produce affordable, densely nutritious foods that taste good utilizing Atlantic's sophisticated, scaled global production facilities in North Carolina, USA, and Thailand.

Available in more than 25,000 retail locations across 30 countries, Atlantic's portfolio of brands includes: Loma Linda, America's oldest plant-based brand and a leader in shelf-stable, ready-to-eat meals, Tuno, a scaled brand in plant-based seafood established in 1988, and Neat, an innovative egg replacer and plant-protein mix brand.

"Atlantic's commitment to sustainability, nutrition, accessibility and social responsibility are all values that deeply resonate with our team," said President and Co-Founder of Above Food, Martin Williams. "With five generations of agriculture experience at the helm of Above Food, we have a seed-to-fork mentality that shapes every product and partnership. We identified significant synergies between our two companies, and the decision to join forces was an easy one."

"Above Food's seed-to-fork approach in plant-based foods is something we were independently building towards, as we believe owning the entire value chain is the only way to drive the scale of change necessary in the food system and create a true long-term business model," said J. Douglas Hines, chairman of Atlantic Natural Foods. "Feeding the global population sustainably with high quality, nutritious, plant-based foods is how we will drive true change to address healthier foods with a healthy planet."

"We see an opportunity to help alleviate the environmental toll being taken on our oceans, as well as to provide consumers with alternatives they can feel good about," said Lionel Kambeitz, executive chairman and CEO of Above Food. "Atlantic Natural Foods has done an incredible job responding to the need for sustainable and high quality plant-based meals and alternative seafood, and we look forward to continuing that work together."

For more information, please visit www.abovefood.com

###

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Kendall Huber

Power Digital Marketing for Above Food

[email protected]

ABOUT ABOVE FOOD CORP.

Above Food Corp. is a first-of-its-kind, plant-based food company that celebrates delicious products made with real ingredients, real nutrition, real flavor, and real transparency. Founded in Canada by food production ecosystem veterans and visionary co-founders, Lionel Kambeitz, Donato Sferra, Tyler West and Martin Williams, Above Food's vision is to create a healthier world  one seed, one field, and one bite at a time. With a complete chain of custody of plant proteins, enabled by scaled operations and infrastructure in primary agriculture and processing, Above Food delivers food to businesses and consumers with unparalleled traceability, quantifiable sustainability, and superior nutrient density. Above Food's brands are available online at www.abovefood.com and in natural grocers across Canada and the USA. For more information about Above Food, please visit www.abovefood.com or follow Above Food on Instagram ( @above_food ), Facebook ( Above Food ) and LinkedIn ( Above Food ).

ABOUT ABOVE FOOD BRANDS INC.

A wholly owned subsidiary of Above Food Corp., Above Food Brands Inc. was established in 2019 to develop and distribute premium whole plant alternatives of meat, dairy, bakery, and baby food, by creating delicious, densely nutritious consumer products and branded ingredients.

ABOUT ATLANTIC NATURAL FOODS:

Headquartered in Nashville, NC, Atlantic Natural Foods is the leading shelf stable manufacturer and provider of Loma Linda, TUNO, and Neat brand products. Its mission is to provide affordable, sustainable and healthy sources of plant-based protein for all lifestyles and people to live healthier, longer lives. The company operates its own manufacturing facility as well as a joint venture project in Thailand. To learn more about Atlantic Natural Foods, please visit www.atlanticnaturalfoods.com or follow the brand on Facebook , Instagram or Twitter .

Media Contact

Power Digital Marketing

[email protected]

SOURCE Above Food

Related Links

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ATLANTA, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Michael Williams, the CEO and President for Jetaire Group, was awarded the 2021 EPPS Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award during an event hosted by the Atlanta Aero Club on Thursday, October 21, 2021. The coveted EPPS Aviation award recognizes those within the aviation community that have made significant contributions to the aerospace industry in the State of Georgia. Previous winners include Gulfstream and Delta Airlines.

Jetaire Group is an aerospace manufacturing and aviation engineering firm that specializes in aircraft fuel tank ignition mitigation, FAR 25.981, and FTFR Rule compliance. As FAA, EASA, AFAC or ANAC aircraft fuel tank safety compliance experts, Jetaire Group has been trusted by aviation companies in 58 countries around the world.

Atlanta Aero Club President, Steve Champness, a Georgia Hall of Fame inductee, presented Williams the 2021 EPPS Award alongside Epps Aviation President and industry legend, Patrick Epps.

"There are some truly remarkable people within the aviation industry, and Michael Williams is no exception," said Atlanta Aero Club President, Steve Champness. "He's made this world a safer place, and we're thrilled to see him recognized as the 2021 EPPS Award winner," he added.

Jetaire Group is a full-service aerospace engineering and manufacturing firm that provides safety products and services to the aviation industry. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, Jetaire Group is best known for pioneering INVICTA, a patented aircraft fuel ignition mitigation system that utilizes a proprietary reticulated polyurethane foam system that reduces the incidence of fuel tank explosions caused by heated fuel vapor, tank rupture, lightning strike, and static discharge. Jetaire Group's unique INVICTA systems allows commercial airlines to comply with FAR 25.981 and FTFR Rule certification requirements within U.S. and international markets.

"As a pilot and aerospace engineer, I am passionate about aviation safety, and the legacy I seek to leave behind is that, through my craft, I made the world safer," said Michael Williams, CEO and President of Jetaire Group. "I'm honored to be recognized as the 2021 EPPS Award winner."

Jetaire Group's aircraft fuel ignition mitigation system, INVICTA has been installed in Airbus and Boeing aircrafts worldwide. Jetaire Group's 35-year reputation and aviation engineering expertise has made them a trusted leader in supporting the aerospace industry around the world. To learn more about Jetaire Group or to schedule an interview, please contact Joanne Sanders at [email protected] or visit jetairegroup.com.

About Jetaire Group:

Jetaire Group, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia is an award-winning aerospace manufacturing, avionics safety, and aviation engineering firm that specializes in aircraft fuel tank ignition mitigation, FAR 25.981, and FTFR Rule compliance. As FAA, EASA, AFAC or ANAC aircraft fuel tank safety compliance experts and experienced aerospace engineers, for more than 35 years Jetaire Group has been trusted by aviation companies in 58 countries around the world.

Media Contact:

Joanne Sanders

404-644-2779

[email protected]

SOURCE Jetaire Group

Related Links

http://jetairegroup.com


REYKJAVIK, Iceland and MCLEAN, Va., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Isavia ANS, Iceland's Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP), has announced today that it has signed an agreement to expand usage of Aireon's space-based ADS-B data. Isavia ANS provides air navigation services across 5.4 million square kilometers of controlled airspace that extends from the North Pole to Scotland and from the prime meridian in Greenwich to west of Greenland.

As an early supporter of Aireon's space-based ADS-B technology, Isavia ANS was one of the first air navigation service providers to sign an agreement to implement the Aireon system. With the completion of the satellite constellation in 2019, Aireon data was integrated into Isavia ANS's air traffic control operations for managed airspace below 70 North Latitude in December 2020.

With this latest agreement to expand coverage, Isavia ANS will use Aireon's live data feed for sectors above 70 North Latitude starting in March 2022. This technology expansion will facilitate a more dynamic, safer and more efficient use of airspace in the northern sectors, improving traffic awareness and Search and Rescue (SAR) capabilities in remote locations. Polar route service will also be improved, as the new surveillance capabilities encourage greater usage. Isavia ANS managed airspace is part of the NAT region, where Aireon is also used by NAVCANADA and NATS since 2019.

"With the expansion of Aireon's air traffic surveillance system into the Isavia ANS's northern control area, we will enhance safety and service by harmonizing procedures and conformance monitoring with other parts of the control area and maximize current technical investments," said Thordis Sigurardottir COO of Isavia ANS. She added, "We look forward to working with Aireon's implementation team once again to deploy this next phase, which will allow flights to be tracked across our polar region in real time."

"Isavia ANS continues to show their leadership in new technology adoption with the expansion of Aireon's satellite-based ADS-B air traffic surveillance system in their northern airspace," said Don Thoma, CEO, Aireon. "We are proud of the partnership we have with the Isavia team, as they make great strides to advance the safety and efficiency of remote airspace with real-time surveillance."

The entirety of Isavia ANS managed airspace will now utilize Aireon's space-based ADS-B data, merged with ground-based surveillance sources into the ATM Surveillance Tracker and Server (ARTAS) used by Isavia ANS in their ATC automation platform.

About Isavia ANS

Isavia ANS, Iceland's Air Navigation Service Provider (ANSP), provides air navigation services for domestic and international flights in the Reykjavik Control Area and at Icelandic airports. Isavia ANS provides air navigation services that span the North Pole to Scotland, and from the Greenwich Meridian in the east to west of Greenland. Over a quarter of all air traffic crossing the North Atlantic passes through the Isavia ANS's managed Reykjavik Control Area, where customers enjoy flexibility with regard to flight routing and altitudes.

About Aireon LLC

Aireon has deployed a space-based air traffic surveillance system for Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) equipped aircraft throughout the entire globe. Aireon is harnessing next-generation aviation surveillance technologies that were formerly ground-based and, for the first time ever, is extending their reach globally to significantly improve efficiency, enhance safety, reduce emissions, and provide cost savings benefits to all stakeholders. Space-based ADS-B surveillance covers oceanic, polar, and remote regions, and augments existing ground-based systems that are limited to terrestrial airspace. In partnership with leading ANSPs from around the world, like NAV CANADA, the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA), Enav, NATS and Naviair, as well as Iridium Communications, Aireon is providing a global, real-time, space-based air traffic surveillance system, available to all aviation stakeholders. For more information, please visit www.aireon.com.

Press Contacts:

Isavia ANS

[email protected]

Aireon

[email protected]

SOURCE Aireon LLC

Related Links

http://www.aireon.com


ST. LOUIS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Award-winning healthcare data, analytics and automation consulting firm, Amitech Solutions, announces their achievement of Diamond Business Partner status with UiPath, the leading enterprise Robotic Process Automation (RPA) software company. UiPath recognizes diamond business partners as one who has a well-established RPA practice, has made significant sales, has technical investments, and has superior knowledge in delivering the end-to-end UiPath hyperautomation platform solution.

Amitech and UiPath have been working together for several years, and during this time, they have collectively delivered intelligent automation solutions to many healthcare customers. Much of the success in making healthcare better and more affordable stems from Amitech's unique insights into both administrative and clinical areas where automation opportunities exist to lower the total cost of care and maximize human potential for UiPath's healthcare customers while repeatedly wowing these same customers. This has been key to the success of UiPath's vision to accelerate human achievement to build a better working world.

"Our vision at Amitech is to make healthcare better for all, and with the help of UiPath's RPA software platform and working with our incredible customers to deploy enterprise-scale intelligent automation solutions, we are doing just that. UiPath continues to be the leader in the RPA space, and we are honored to get this recognition as it solidifies our extensive and deep expertise in UiPath's automation platform and strengthens our market position to generate long-lasting value for our customers," said Amit Bhagat, CEO at Amitech.

As UiPath Diamond Partner, UiPath Services Network (USN) certified, and recently as its 2021 Impact Partner of the Year award recipient, Amitech is afforded greater access to UiPath's software platform to develop seamless, end-to-end Integrated Healthcare Automation solutions. Additionally, they will have more insight into planned innovation on the platform to integrate analytics, artificial intelligence and machine learning models and capabilities that maximize value for healthcare customers. Additionally, Amitech will have more insight into planned innovation on the platform to integrate other relevant technologies, artificial intelligence, and machine learning models to create a fully automated enterprise that maximizes human potential and value creation for healthcare customers.

For additional information about Amitech please contact Jessica Rosen at 866-870-8920 or via email at [email protected] . Additional information can also be found at www.amitechsolutions.com.

About Amitech

Amitech is an award-winning data, analytics, and automation healthcare consulting firm. At Amitech, we believe healthcare can and should be better. With a single-minded focus on value, we combine people, process, culture, and technology to drive real and lasting change. We partner with our customers to deliver data, analytics and automation strategies and solutions to make healthcare more proactive, higher quality and less expensive for everyone.

SOURCE Amitech Solutions

Related Links

http://www.amitechsolutions.com


SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- AnyRoad , the leader in Experience Relationship Management (ERM), today announced that former Lyft talent and HR leader Iris Hermelin has joined the company as its first vice president of people. In this new position, Iris will lead all aspects of human resources, talent and culture to support the company's expansion around the world.

Iris brings nearly three decades of experience building effective teams and helping technology companies of all sizes scale their culture as they grow. She joins AnyRoad during a time of significant company momentum, as hundreds of brands now turn to the platform to deliver transformative online, in-person and hybrid experiences. The company continues to invest heavily in talent and culture, with plans to double headcount in the next year to keep up with the rise of the experience economy.

"Demand for our platform is skyrocketing as more brands turn to experiences to strengthen relationships with their customers, and we're confident that Iris will build the world-class team needed to support this demand," said Jonathan Yaffe, co-founder and CEO of AnyRoad. "Iris offers a perfect balance of operational excellence, a high standard for talent and an empathy that's so rare in the tech industry, and she will undoubtedly take our people organization and recruiting to the next level."

Prior to AnyRoad, Iris served as the head of recruiting and people at Lyft Level 5 (L5), the company's autonomous vehicle division. There, she scaled the team to over 400 people, including many of the world's top artificial intelligence engineers, and led recruiting through the division's acquisition by Woven Planet Holdings, a subsidiary of Toyota Motors Corporation, where she then served as director of people. Previously, she founded and ran a boutique recruiting firm that specialized in hiring for IT companies and also held HR positions at leading technology organizations, including Jive Software.

"With the world opening back up, there has never been a more exciting time to join the experiential industry," said Iris Hermelin, vice president of people at AnyRoad. "I look forward to helping AnyRoad navigate this next stage of growth and preserve the amazing culture that attracted me as a hire in the first place."

AnyRoad is actively recruiting for numerous positions in engineering, sales, marketing, customer experience and product. For more information, visit https://www.anyroad.com/careers .

About AnyRoad

AnyRoad is the leading Experience Relationship Management (ERM) platform enabling global brands to properly measure, scale, and implement their offline and online experiences. AnyRoad empowers companies to create brand loyalty, change consumer behavior, and better understand their brand associations by providing them with data intelligence sourced from experience-based marketing.

Companies like Budweiser, Honda, Michaels, and Tabasco all count on AnyRoad to measure the impact of their experiential marketing. AnyRoad's software integrates into CRM, loyalty, ERP, and POS systems to complete the loop, building the model of exactly how these experiences build loyalty, increase brand perception, and increase revenue. For more information, visit www.anyroad.com.

SOURCE AnyRoad

Related Links

www.anyroad.com


CLEVELAND, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A new Freedonia Group analysis projects that the Asia/Pacific region will drive global demand for nonresidential ceiling products, growing at an above average pace through 2025. A large number of countries in the region are developing or upgrading infrastructure, leading to increased installation of both basic and specialty ceilings:

Shifts away from wet construction methods will benefit increased use of prefabricated products such as ceiling tiles, as will increased focus on improving acoustics and aesthetics in more industrial settings.

Higher value specialty products and ceiling tiles are being increasingly adopted in higher income areas such as South Korea as well as in buildings that see much outside traffic, such as airports, metro and train stations, and public spaces in hotels and cultural buildings.

As the stock of buildings with installed ceilings increases, replacement demand will also grow, especially for products like ceiling tiles, which can be easily damaged.

Global Nonresidential Ceilings Market to Near $8 Billion in 2025

Through 2025, global demand for nonresidential ceiling products is forecast to increase 4.8% annually to $7.9 billion, driven by:

global building design trends favoring enhanced acoustics and aesthetics, resulting in a shift away from drywall and building plaster to ceiling tiles and specialty products

rapid advances in new nonresidential building construction in China , India , and Indonesia

, , and rising nonresidential renovation activity in the US and Western Europe , particularly in office and institutional buildings

, particularly in office and institutional buildings increased market penetration of specialty products in all regions, including greater use of these products in conjunction with open plenum designs in retail buildings in the US

However, the market will continue to be restrained by the popularity of drywall and building plaster in many developing countries.

Want to Learn More?

This study analyzes global nonresidential ceiling demand by product and nonresidential building type. Historical data are provided for 2010, 2015, and 2020, and forecasts are presented for 2025 and 2030 in US dollars and square meters.

Products:

ceiling tiles (i.e., ceiling panels): mineral fiber; metal; wood, vinyl-faced gypsum, and other materials

suspension systems: aluminum, steel, and other materials, including vinyl

specialty ceiling: baffles, clouds, stretch ceilings, and other specialty ceiling products, including ceiling islands, ceiling planks, and open cell ceilings

Nonresidential building types:

offices, retail and wholesale, and lodging buildings

institutional buildings such as schools, healthcare facilities, and religious institutions

industrial buildings, predominately factories

transportation buildings

other commercial buildings such as civic centers and recreational facilities

About the Freedonia Group - The Freedonia Group, a division of MarketResearch.com, is the premier international industrial research company, providing our clients with product analyses, market forecasts, industry trends, and market share information. From one-person consulting firms to global conglomerates, our analysts provide companies with unbiased, reliable industry market research and analysis to help them make important business decisions. With over 100 studies published annually, we support over 90% of the industrial Fortune 500 companies. Find off-the-shelf studies at https://www.freedoniagroup.com/ or contact us for custom research: +1 440.842.2400.

SOURCE The Freedonia Group
"To date, Assembly has focused on meeting the ever-changing needs of small-and-medium sized merchants by providing them with the suite of solutions they need to start, run and grow their business," said Sandeep Kella, co-founder and CEO of Assembly. "With Pacvue, Assembly is now strategically positioned to offer customers at all stages the software they need to scale their business."

With Pacvue, Assembly is now strategically positioned to offer customers at all stages the software they need to scale.

Pacvue, one of the first to join the Amazon Advertising retail network in 2017, now serves over 30 sales channels and saw its revenue and customer base nearly triple in the last year. It recently launched Pacvue Commerce, enabling customers to get the benefits of both best-in-class marketplace advertising and retail media intelligence, all in the same platform.

Pacvue is led by Zhaohui Tang, co-founder and chairman, and Melissa Burdick, co-founder and president. Previously, Tang was a founder of Ad Sage, the largest search engine marketing company in China. Prior to Ad Sage, Tang was principal group program manager at Microsoft, where he was influential in the development of Bing search algorithms. Burdick is a 10-year Amazon veteran who helped build the Amazon CPG retail business. Burdick was also an early leader in developing the Amazon Ads business.

"We are proud to join Assembly in our shared commitment to serving customers of all sizes with the most powerful software in the industry," said Melissa Burdick, president and co-founder of Pacvue. "This acquisition enables us to accelerate product innovation, commercialize industry-first capabilities, and solidify Assembly's position as the only multi-channel e-commerce software platform serving everyone from SMB's to enterprises."

The Pacvue acquisition comes just one month after Assembly announced an investment round led by Advent International, which boosted Assembly's valuation to north of $1 billion. Following this acquisition, Assembly will continue to explore accelerating its product roadmap through acquisitions that fit its mission of scaling and supporting e-commerce merchants on every major channel worldwide.

About Assembly

Headquartered in Los Angeles, Assembly is a connected e-commerce software and data platform founded in 2019, empowering merchants to make more money, form better decisions, and take better actions through superior product, data, and community. For more information, visit:

Website: www.withassembly.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/withassembly/

About Pacvue

Headquartered in Seattle, Pacvue is the enterprise platform for e-commerce advertising, sales, and intelligence. Combining unified retail analytics with the tools needed to take recommended actions, brands and sellers use Pacvue to grow their business across Amazon, Walmart, Instacart, and other marketplaces. Supported by the expertise of eCommerce veterans, Pacvue empowers teams to win in the future of eCommerce. For more information, visit:

Website: http://www.Pacvue.com.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacvue

About Advent International

Founded in 1984, Advent International is one of the largest and most experienced global private equity investors. The firm has invested in over 380 private equity investments across 42 countries, and as of March 31, 2021, had $75 billion in assets under management. With 14 offices in 11 countries, Advent has established a globally integrated team of over 245 private equity investment professionals across North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia. The firm focuses on investments in five core sectors, including business and financial services; health care; industrial; retail, consumer and leisure; and technology. After 35 years dedicated to international investing, Advent remains committed to partnering with management teams to deliver sustained revenue and earnings growth for its portfolio companies.

For more information, visit

Website: www.adventinternational.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/advent-international

Media Contacts

Assembly

Brynn Whitfield

Assembly

[email protected]

Pacvue

Scott Samson

SamsonPR

[email protected]

Advent International

Sophia Templin

Finsbury Glover Hering

[email protected]

SOURCE Assembly

Related Links

withassembly.com


MIAMI, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Solomon, Cooperman & Recondo, LLP is proud to announce that Adam J. Weiss has been promoted to Partner with the Firm. Since joining the Firm in 2020, Adam has played a key role in the significant growth of the Firm's real estate practice, representing clients in numerous high-profile and complex transactions. Among other major deals, Mr. Weiss represented a private equity firm in a $101,000,0000 acquisition of an institutional-grade multifamily project in the Sun Belt. Adam also handled other major transactions for clients including a $90,000,000 sale, as well as loan closings for institutional banks.

"Adam is a powerhouse at handling complex transactions and represents our clients exceptionally well," stated Ben Solomon, managing partner of the Firm.

Prior to joining the Firm, Adam was a real estate attorney in the Miami office of Akerman, LLP, an AmLaw 100 law firm where he represented developers, private equity funds, and Fortune 500 companies in a variety of real estate transactions. Adam Weiss earned his B.A., summa cum laude, from Yeshiva University, where he was awarded the Dean's Scholarship. He was then awarded the prestigious, full-tuition Harvey T. Reid scholarship to the University of Miami School of Law, where he earned his J.D., magna cum laude.

As Partner, Adam Weiss will be opening the Firm's new Boca Raton office where he will continue his representation of clients in all matters relating to the acquisition, disposition, financing, development, and leasing of real estate. Solomon, Cooperman & Recondo also has offices in Miami and Ft. Lauderdale.

Contact: Ben Solomon, Esq., [email protected]

SOURCE Solomon, Cooperman & Recondo, LLP

Related Links

https://www.sfllp.com


CLEVELAND, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Brown Gibbons Lang & Company (BGL) is pleased to announce the sale of Shoreline Vinyl Systems (Shoreline) to Eastern Wholesale Fence, a portfolio company of Center Rock Capital Partners and Leelanau Private Capital. BGL's Building Products investment banking team served as the exclusive financial advisor to Shoreline. The specific terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

BGL's Building Products investment banking team served as the exclusive financial advisor to Shoreline. Tweet this Brown Gibbons Lang & Company (BGL) is pleased to announce the sale of Shoreline Vinyl Systems (Shoreline) to Eastern Wholesale Fence, a portfolio company of Center Rock Capital Partners and Leelanau Private Capital. BGLs Building Products investment banking team served as the exclusive financial advisor to Shoreline. The specific terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

This M&A transaction represents another successful outcome in BGL's active building products, distribution, and manufacturing sectors. BGL has represented building product companies and their owners across the residential and commercial sectors for well over a decade.

Shoreline Vinyl Systems is a value-added manufacturer and distributor of industry-leading professional grade, ready-to-install vinyl and aluminum fence and railing products to installers, lumber and building material (LBM) retail centers, and big-box retailers. Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Denton, MD, with operations in Denton and additional operations in Laurinburg, NC, the company is well positioned for growth as it leverages its leading product quality and customer service in the rapidly growing outdoor living market.

Eastern Wholesale Fence LLC, headquartered in Medford, NY, is a leading supplier of fence and related products utilized in a wide array of residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The company manufactures and distributes PVC fencing and railing in custom specifications, as well as a full line of wood fence, chain-link products, aluminum and steel ornamental products, welded mesh, guide rail, and post and rail products.

About Brown Gibbons Lang & Company

Brown Gibbons Lang & Company (BGL) is a leading independent investment bank and financial advisory firm focused on the global middle market. The firm advises private and public corporations and private equity groups on mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, financial restructurings, valuations and opinions, and other strategic matters. BGL has investment banking offices in Chicago, Cleveland, and Philadelphia, and real estate offices in Chicago, Cleveland, and San Antonio. The firm is also a founding member of Global M&A Partners, enabling BGL to service clients in more than 30 countries around the world. Securities transactions are conducted through Brown, Gibbons, Lang & Company Securities, Inc., an affiliate of Brown Gibbons Lang & Company LLC and a registered broker-dealer and member of FINRA and SIPC. For more information, please visit www.bglco.com.

SOURCE Brown Gibbons Lang & Company

Related Links

www.bglco.com


BOGOTA, Colombia, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BIOPAS, a leading and unique Latin American biopharmaceutical company focused on in-licensing and commercialization of specialty pharmaceuticals - to the exclusion of any generic and/or branded generic drugs - that address unmet medical needs in the region, announced today the full launch of its Brazilian operations with the exclusive distribution of RIVOTRIL beginning in November, thus expanding its on-going strategic collaboration with CHEPLAPHARM ARZNEIMITTEL GmbH into the Brazilian territory.

This transformational-move markedly strengthens BIOPAS' platform as the exclusive one-stop shop specialty care pharmaceutical company covering the entire region.

BIOPAS turnkey solution is aimed to ensure successful reach and growth of global pharma companies as their Partner of Choice to provide access to innovative treatments to patients in Latin America.

BIOPAS' unmatched market access tools together with revenue generating opportunities provide its partners with significantly reduced complexity, management disruption, and time costs associated with country-specific transactions.

About Biopas

BIOPAS (www.biopasgroup.com) is a leading and differentiated Latin American pharmaceutical company, focused on in-licensing, marketing, and selling of cutting-edge specialty pharmaceutical branded prescription products.

BIOPAS' business model is specially designed to provide market access to multiple therapeutic options to specialists to cover unmet medical needs of the Latin American population. BIOPAS holds senior leadership positions in CNS, Immunology, Dermatology, Oncology and Orphan Drugs. BIOPAS' whole product portfolio is licensed from its partners to the exclusion of any generics and/or branded generics .

Through its regional platform, BIOPAS offers best in class services in sales, marketing, medical, and support functions led by highly talented and driven teams to enable the successful launch and development of innovative products. All BIOPAS' functions operate in compliance with international standards and regulations.

BIOPAS has a strong operating history with a proven track record of success to build long-term and fruitful relationships with its partners, including UCB, FERRING, IPSEN, VERTEX, and more recently CHIESI, CHEPLAPHARM and DAEWONG.

SOURCE Biopas

Related Links

http://www.biopasgroup.com


"Reintroducing Herman Miller's archival graphics as a collection has been a long-time dream of the brand," says Auscherman. "The posters and advertisements are always a favorite when we have them available for purchase, lend them to museum exhibitions, and have visitors at our archive in West Michigan."

"The graphics are timeless and approachable as art objects for any home or office, and we're excited to add the beloved designs to our expanding art category offering," says Debbie Propst, President of Global Retail for MillerKnoll.

This initial collection of fifteen resurfaced iconic designs spans from 1949 to 1979 and covers a host of product advertisements and brand nostalgia, beginning with Irving Harper's emotive Hardware Ad and concluding with Linda Powell's energetic Exercise Poster. Harper is credited with designing the original Herman Miller logo and was a member of designer George Nelson's specialized design team from 1947 to 1963.

Other George Nelson & Associates classics in the assortment include historical advertisements such as the Timeline, Four Coconuts and Coconut Chair in addition to the methodic Nelson Office Illustrations including Purple Triangles, Rectangles, Four Color Block, Blue and Black, Blue Dot, and Two Split Circles. The strong representation from this period at Herman Miller signals just how much Nelson's team contributed to the brand. Nelson was hired by Herman Miller in 1945 and in 1947 formed George Nelson & Associates, a group whose legacy includes the creation of the whimsical yet modern Nelson clocks, the luminous Nelson Bubble Lamps and the iconic Marshmallow Sofa.

While George Nelson and his team's dynamic products and graphics played a pivotal role in rocketing the Herman Miller brand to international acclaim, they were far from the only creative minds whose fantastical visuals have been canonized through Herman Miller's prestigious line of posters. No Herman Miller poster collection would be complete without at least one piece by Steve Frykholm, a Herman Miller legend who began his decades-long career at the company as its first ever internal graphic designer. His beloved Picnic Posters are unmistakable and can be found in art collections around the world, including the MOMA. His famous Corn Picnic Poster, created in 1970, was the first installment in the coveted picnic collection, and will be included as a limited-edition in this Herman Miller assortment. Armin Hofmann's Herman Miller Collection Poster will also be included as a limited-edition, with only 200 copies being printed of each.

Rounding out the collection are the two bright and colorful posters dubbed Rainbow Resources and Organic Forms, both designed by Phillip Mitchell under the creative direction of Frykholm, who was serving as Creative Director at Herman Miller at the time.

The sizing and material composition of each poster was carefully selected as the best choice to represent the vintage original.

"We closely referenced examples from the Herman Miller Archives to faithfully recreate these iconic pieces of graphic design," says Auscherman. "From color matching to paper selection, no detail was too small for consideration. It's exciting to now have this work recontextualized as art objects and accessible to design fans everywhere!"

Pricing for the assortment ranges from $475$1,125 with frames available in white, black or maple. The collection will be available on October 26, 2021, at 6:30 a.m. EST for purchase at store.hermanmiller.com and dwr.com.

About Herman Miller

Herman Miller is a globally recognized leader in design. Since its inception in 1905, the company's innovative, problem-solving designs and furnishings have inspired the best in people. Herman Miller is guided by an enduring legacy of design, innovation, and social good. In 2021, Herman Miller and Knoll created MillerKnoll, a collective of dynamic brands that comes together to design the world we live in.

About Design Within Reach

Design Within Reach is your source for modern living. Founded in 1998 with a mission to provide access to the best in authentic design, the company curates classics from design icons and cultivates next generation talent to deliver an evolving breadth of product that can only be found at DWR. With a solution-oriented approach, the company offers the expertise and services needed to support the way people live today. Headquartered in Stamford, Conn., DWR sells its furniture and accessories to residential and commercial customers through retail Studios in North America, via the web at dwr.com, by phone at 1.800.944.2233. Design Within Reach, Inc., is part of the MillerKnoll collective.

About MillerKnoll

MillerKnoll is a collective of dynamic brands that comes together to design the world we live in. MillerKnoll includes Herman Miller and Knoll, plus Colebrook Bosson Saunders, DatesWeiser, Design Within Reach, Edelman Leather, Fully, Geiger, HAY, Holly Hunt, Maars Living Walls, Maharam, Muuto, naughtone, and Spinneybeck|FilzFelt. MillerKnoll is an unparalleled platform that redefines modern for the 21st century by building a more sustainable, equitable, and beautiful future for everyone.

SOURCE Herman Miller, Inc.

Related Links

www.hermanmiller.com


OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Shield of California today announced that mindfulness and meditation app Headspace is now available to its members through the nonprofit health plan's Wellvolution program.

Headspace offers hundreds of tools and more than 1,000 exercises to reduce stress and improve one's mental wellbeing. The app joins the extensive resources offered on Blue Shield's Wellvolution, a digitally based lifestyle medicine and health platform provided in collaboration with Solera Health that can be personalized to each member's individual health needs and preferences.

The addition of Headspace expands Wellvolution to now include behavioral health support. Blue Shield members already enjoying Wellvolution's lifestyle medicine service can now add Headspace to their support system with no additional cost to them. Blue Shield of California continues to build its behavioral health program for its members and the community that now includes expanded telehealth options and BlueSky, the health plan's multi-year commitment to support youth mental health throughout the state.

"There's no question that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has elevated stress levels for everyone," said Bryce Williams, vice president, Mind Body Medicine at Blue Shield of California. "With Headspace, our members receive a scientifically validated, clinically effective solution to improve their mental health and wellbeing."

Headspace research has demonstrated that the app's guided meditations can reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and increase focus, self-esteem, and resilience. The company has found:

10 days of Headspace utilization resulted in 14% decrease in stress.

8 weeks of using Headspace resulted in a 31% decrease in anxiety symptoms and 46% decrease in depressive symptoms.

Almost two years after it began, the pandemic continues to affect the lives of many Americans and stress remains present and problematic. According to the American Psychological Association, 78% of adults say the coronavirus pandemic is a significant source of stress in their life and 67% say they have experienced increased stress over the course of the pandemic.

"There has been a huge spike in the need for mental health support in the past few years and Headspace has been successful in helping people stress less, be more resilient, and get a better night's sleep," said Sarah Romotsky, director, Healthcare Partnerships Solutions at Headspace. "Through this valuable collaboration with Blue Shield, we hope to make mindfulness easy and accessible for all."

Wellvolution is Blue Shield's digitally based lifestyle medicine and health platform that can be personalized for individual health needs and preferences. Created in collaboration with Solera Health, Wellvolution provides members guided on-demand access to a tailored network of clinically proven apps using lifestyle to prevent, treat, and even reverse disease. It is available to most Blue Shield members with their benefit plan at no additional cost and is an example of how the nonprofit health plan is reimagining health for individuals, families, and communities.

"We are excited to continue our collaboration with such a forward-thinking health plan like Blue Shield of California to help meet the timely mental health needs of their members through offering our behavioral health network," said Mary Langowski, CEO, Solera Health. "There is a huge demand and need for these services, and we are happy to work together, with our partner Headspace, to make it easier for consumers to access mindfulness and mental wellbeing programs."

For more information about mental health resources through Blue Shield's Wellvolution platform, go to wellvolution.com/mentalhealth.

About Blue Shield of California

Blue Shield of California strives to create a healthcare system worthy of its family and friends that is sustainably affordable. Blue Shield of California is a tax paying, nonprofit, independent member of the Blue Shield Association with over 4.5 million members, over 7,500 employees and more than $21 billion in annual revenue. Founded in 1939 in San Francisco and now headquartered in Oakland, Blue Shield of California and its affiliates provide health, dental, vision, Medicaid, and Medicare healthcare service plans in California. The company has contributed more than $150 million to Blue Shield of California Foundation in the last four years to have an impact on California communities.

For more news about Blue Shield of California, please visit news.blueshieldca.com.

Or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook.

About Headspace

Headspace was created with one mission in mind: to improve the health and happiness of the world. Reaching 70 million users in 190 countries, Headspace was one of the first meditation apps in the world and remains a leader in mindfulness and mental training. Headspace is committed to advancing the field of mindfulness through clinically validated research, with one of the largest research pipelines of any digital health and wellness company. Headspace operates a B2B business (Headspace for Work) to offer its mindfulness products and services to more than 2,200 companies, such as Starbucks, Adobe, Hyatt, and Unilever, to help them build healthier, more productive cultures and higher performing organizations. Headspace supports government entities like New York State and the UK's National Health Service (NHS) to offer digital mental health tools. Headspace partners with many of the world's most-recognizable brands, including Apple, Sesame Street, Spotify, Amazon, and Nike as well as Netflix for a three part mindfulness series that premiered in 2021. Headspace has been recognized as TIME100's Most Influential Companies of 2021, Fast Company's 10 most innovative social good companies of 2021 and World's Most Innovative Companies. Other accolades include Apple's Best of 2018, Samsung's Best of 2019 and one of CB Insights' top digital health companies, along with being selected for seven Webby Awards in podcasts, health and fitness. For more information, please visit us at www.headspace.com, or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Solera

Solera Health is committed to changing lives by guiding people seamlessly to better health solutions, while providing payers and employers the tools to manage providers and outcomes across conditions. Solera's platform provides a marketplace of curated networks of digital and community point solutions focused on intensive, evidence-based lifestyle, behavioral and social interventions to impact the most prevalent and costly chronic conditions. Solera strategically matches consumers to their best-fit solution and helps keep them engaged for successful health outcomes.

CONTACT:

Mashi Nyssen

Blue Shield of California

510-607-2359

[email protected]

SOURCE Blue Shield of California
"We're honored and thankful for these awards ..." - Scottie Orr, Vice President of Enterprise Sales for C Spire Business

C Spire Business was selected for the first two awards as the best Cisco partner from over 20 partner companies in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana and C Spire Business Solutions Architect Jeremy Sanders was named the top Public Sector Sales Engineer in Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana and Arkansas.

The Partner of the Year award recognizes Cisco's top performing regional partner for business growth while delivering world-class customer sales and service. The Enterprise Partner of the Year regional award honors the firm that delivers the best routing, switching, wireless and network management technology Cisco enterprise networking solutions.

Cisco's Public Sector Sales Engineer of the Year award honors the top regional public sector engineer who advocates through sales and service the team mission of "Making Home Stronger Together" for state and local government, higher education and K-12 schools and organizations.

This is the first year that Cisco has conferred the regional awards, which recognize the networking giant's partners and individual sellers and engineers for working with Cisco to provide outstanding sales and service. The awards are based on nominations from Cisco teams and alignment with the firm's strategic sales, service and revenue goals and objectives.

"C Spire Business continues to forge strong relationships with Cisco, implements our strategic priorities, embodies our shared commitment to world-class customer service and leads with our enterprise networking solutions for firms to securely connect users, devices and applications," said Walter Fuller, manager of Southeast Partner Operations for Cisco.

Fuller said Sanders was selected for the Engineer of the Year award because he "embodies the shared mission (of C Spire Business and Cisco) for delivering innovative technology solutions to our partner customers and making their operations more efficient and cost effective."

"We're honored and thankful for these awards, which reflect our continued Cisco partnership and the passion and commitment our company and our employees exhibit daily in delivering world-class information technology and enterprise networking solutions to our customers," said Scottie Orr, vice president of Enterprise Sales for C Spire Business.

About C Spire Business

C Spire Business is a division of C Spire, a diversified telecommunications and technology services company that provides world-class, customer-inspired Gigabit consumer Internet access as well as a full suite of dedicated Internet, IP Voice, data, cloud and managed services for businesses. This news release and other announcements are available at www.cspire.com/news. For more information about C Spire Business, visit www.cspire.com/business or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/cspirebusiness or Twitter at www.twitter.com/cspirebusiness.

SOURCE C Spire Business
"Capewell has formed this esteemed board of advisors to gain a more thorough comprehension of the voice of the customer, and to become a better servant to our customer," said Gregory Bloom, President and CEO of Capewell. "The board formation is also a step forward in our global expansion, as we look to provide relevant and ready solutions to our partner nations and allies."

As a first step, Capewell named Gen. James F. Amos, USMC, Ret., chairman of its board of advisors. General Amos culminated an impressive 42-year Marine Corps career by serving four years as Commandant.

"Capewell is a world-class company whose engineering solutions have served our nation's warriors, and those of our closest allies, for well over a century," said General Amos. "Its commitment to manufacturing quality products and solving hard problems for our men and women in uniform, was all that we needed to know when Greg approached us about joining his Board of Advisors; it was an easy, YES. We look forward to being part of Capewell's success story."

"General Amos is the right man at the right time to help Capewell realize its full potential in providing critical solutions that not only allow our Soldiers, Sailors and Marines to come home safely, but to be incredibly effective as we pivot from conflicts in the desert to those in the Pacific," said Bloom.

General Amos takes an active role by hand-selecting board members who bring firsthand expertise in leading our military through recent global wartime engagements, according to Bloom. To date, members selected for the board of advisors are:

LTG Thomas L. Conant, U.S. Marine Corps, Ret.

LTG Conant retired from the U.S. Marine Corps in August 2014 with 43 years of service. Commissioned in November 1975 and designated a Naval Aviator in September 1976, LTG Conant served as an AH-1J/T/W/Z Attack Helicopter Pilot throughout his career. He saw duties in 1st , 2nd , 3rd , and 4th Marine Aircraft Wings, and served as Commanding Officer Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 167 and Marine Aircraft Group 36. As a General Officer, he commanded Marine Corps Training Command and 3D Marine Aircraft Wing. His last active duty billet was serving as the Deputy Commander of the United States Pacific Command.

LTG Jim Pasquarette, U.S. Army, Ret.

LTG Pasquarette retired from the U.S. Army in 2021 as a Lieutenant General after a 38-year career that included leadership assignments at every level of the Army. His career culminated as the principal Army Staff deputy responsible for both the material requirements approval process and the Army's 5-year fiscal plan  an $850 billion effort. LTG Pasquarette has broad experience in the Pacific, where he served as the deputy commander of all Army forces  and as commander of all Army forces in Japan. In that capacity, he traveled widely, engaging with leaders across the Asia-Pacific in support of U.S. national security interests.

"Capewell is extremely grateful to these individuals for so enthusiastically taking part in our inaugural advisory board," said Bloom. "We are excited at the prospects for growth and the innovative solutions these advisors will help bring about for our armed forces, and the security and safety of our nation and its allies."

About Gen. James Amos, U.S. Marine Corps, Ret.

General Amos retired from active duty in December 2014, as a United States Marine Corps four-star general who served as the 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps. As a naval aviator, Amos commanded the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing during the Iraq War in 2003 and 2006. He served as the 31st Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps from 2008 to 2010, and was the first Marine Corps aviator to serve as commandant. Since then, he has been active in sharing his time and expertise with various organizations and corporations. In addition to his current service on Capewell's board, he serves as a strategic advisor to the President of ST Engineering  North America, a member of the President of Huntington Ingalls Shipbuilding Strategic Advisory Panel, a member of NOVANT Health's Board of Trustees, a member of the Board of Advisors for Jewish Institute for National Security in America (JINSA), as well as a member of the Veterans Bridge Home Advisory Board in Charlotte, N.C. General Amos is the former Chairman of the Board of Directors of LORD Corporation, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Semper Fi Fund/America's Fund, and Founder, Windsock LLC. A native of the Pacific Northwest, General Amos joined the Marine Corps after college, entering pilot training in 1970. He flew fighter aircraft in numerous Marine squadrons throughout the early years of his career, culminating in command of an F/A-18 Hornet squadron onboard the nuclear carrier, USS Theodore Roosevelt, and later command of Marine Aircraft Group 31.

About Capewell:

Founded in 1881, Capewell is the global leader in the custom engineering and manufacture of critical aerial delivery systems and combat water survivability solutions for the United States government and its partner nations. Capewell's foundational mission  to protect people who operate systems in dangerous environments in support of national security  continues to this day. Operating out of South Windsor, Conn., and Meadows of Dan, Va., the company offers four core product segments of mission-critical components and systems: Aerial Delivery & Parachute Systems, Aerial & Marine Life Support & Safety Hardware, Operator and Maintainer Training and Logistics, and Engineering Services.

SOURCE Capewell
NEW ORLEANS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CenTrio, the industry-leading core-competency U.S. district energy business, today announced the appointment of Steve Swinson as Chief Executive Officer, effective October 25, 2021. Mr. Swinson most recently served as president and chief executive officer of Thermal Energy Corporation (TECO) in Houston, the largest chilled water district energy system in North America.

CenTrio, formerly Enwave USA, delivers heating, cooling, and electric district energy solutions to more than 400 buildings in urban centers, universities, and hospitals across the United States.

"Steve has dedicated his efforts over many years to building successful district energy businesses," said Peggy Smyth, Chair of the CenTrio Board of Directors. "His leadership, insight, and experience, particularly overseeing TECO's expansion, will be invaluable as we leverage our team's collective expertise to accelerate CenTrio's growth and bring efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly energy to more customers."

"The entire CenTrio team welcomes Steve to the company at this exciting time in our growth and development," said Doug Castleberry, CenTrio's President & Chief Operating Officer. Steve has already hit the ground running. We look forward to working with him as we implement our ambitious expansion plans and continue to deliver reliability, sustainability, and value to our customers."

Mr. Swinson has 30 years of experience in the district energy industry. During his 16-year tenure leading TECO, which provides thermal energy services to hospitals and universities in the Texas Medical Center, he was responsible for the company's management and strategic direction and led it through its largest-ever expansion from 2007 to 2011.



Mr. Swinson has held positions at Trigen Energy Corporation as regional and technology divisions president and at Auburn University from 1983 to 1993. Prior to joining TECO, Mr. Swinson was president of Midwest Mechanical Contractor's Central Division and ran a district energy consulting company for five years.

A registered professional engineer, Mr. Swinson earned an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg Graduate School of Management and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Auburn University. He is a former president and chairman of the Board of Directors of the International District Energy Association.

About CenTrio

As the industry leading core-competency U.S. district energy business, CenTrio provides innovative, heating, cooling, and electric district energy solutions focused on reliability, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness. CenTrio owns and operates assets in Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Portland, Seattle, and Syracuse, operating intelligent thermal energy systems that generate, store, and share energy. To learn more, visit CenTrio online at centrioenergy.com.

Media Contact:

Leslie Lynch

CenTrio

[email protected]

SOURCE CenTrio
BLOOMFIELD, Conn., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Cigna Health Plan today announced it is significantly expanding access to covered virtual care services for millions of customers. The expansion demonstrates the increased pace of innovation that is an early result of the acquisition of MDLIVE by Evernorth, Cigna's health services business.

The integrated services will include digital-first primary, dermatology, behavioral and urgent care. Additionally, MDLIVE physicians will join Cigna's group of collaborative care providers, giving them access to patients' health information for a more connected, coordinated experience.

"With MDLIVE now part of Evernorth, we've fast-tracked our ability to offer a broader suite of differentiated, future-state care solutions that make the patient experience easier and more convenient," said Eric Palmer, president, Evernorth. "Today's announcement represents a significant step forward for millions of health plan customers who will gain on-demand access to a wider range of highly-specialized, in-network health care professionals."

Improving the Customer Experience

Starting in January 2022, all Cigna customers who are enrolled in employer-sponsored plans will have access to MDLIVE's network of virtual primary care providers for routine care visits, sick visits, prescription refills, or to follow up on a condition that was not addressed during a wellness visit.

The expanded access to primary care services is especially critical given the increasing number of customers who do not have an existing primary care provider (PCP). This announcement builds on the successful virtual wellness visit program Cigna and MDLIVE launched last year. More than 75 percent of Cigna customers who had an MDLIVE virtual wellness screening in 2020 did not have a PCP  and two-thirds identified a health condition as a result of the virtual screening.

"Our customers value convenient access to high quality care and are increasingly finding virtual care is a great way to meet their health needs. This substantial expansion in MDLIVE services provides even more of those choices to our customers," said Heather Dlugolenski, senior vice president, solutions, Cigna. "Not only will this give more people an additional entry point to the health care system, but patients will be able to build lasting relationships with their preferred MDLIVE provider just as they would in a traditional office setting. MDLIVE providers will also have access to comprehensive customer health information to track patient progress and better manage care. As necessary, MDLIVE will be able to refer our customers to high-performing in-network providers."

Additionally, with the average wait time to see a dermatologist currently at more than 30 days, MDLIVE's virtual dermatology services will enable Cigna customers to receive feedback from a health care professional within an average of 15 hours. Virtual dermatology will be available to customers that receive their coverage through their employer or the Affordable Care Act exchanges.

Secure, Coordinated Access to Health Information

During virtual visits, MDLIVE providers will gain secure, coordinated access to each patient's Cigna health information, paving the way for more meaningful patient-provider discussions and informed recommendations. Patients can also be referred to other in-network specialists, including behavioral care, as well as receive orders for lab work and biometrics at in-network facilities.

"Together, we are creating a best-in-class, coordinated virtual care experience for millions of patients  improving each person's unique health care journey with support from a wide network of providers," said Dr. Cynthia Zelis, chief medical officer at MDLIVE, an Evernorth company.

Virtual-First Health Plans with $0 Copay

Cigna is also launching virtual-first health plans to select employers. These innovative plans include $0 copays with MDLIVE primary care providers, comprehensive chronic condition management and care navigation, and no referral requirements for in-person visits with in-network health care providers.

"At Cigna, we are constantly innovating our plan designs to meet the needs of our customers while continuing to make health care more affordable, predictable and simple," continued Dlugolenski. "Expanding into virtual-first health plans is the next step in providing a convenient and comprehensive care experience."

About Cigna

Cigna Corporation is a global health service company dedicated to improving the health, well-being and peace of mind of those we serve. Cigna delivers choice, predictability, affordability and access to quality care through integrated capabilities and connected, personalized solutions that advance whole person health. All products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Evernorth companies or their affiliates, and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and other related products.

Cigna maintains sales capability in over 30 countries and jurisdictions, and has more than 190 million customer relationships throughout the world. To learn more about Cigna, including links to follow us on Facebook or Twitter, visit www.cigna.com.

About MDLIVE

MDLIVE, an Evernorth company, is a leading provider of virtual health care services in the U.S. with more than 60 million members nationwide. We work with our health plan, health system, and self-insured employer partners to give patients convenient and affordable access to the highest quality medical and behavioral health care, 24/7, from the comfort and safety of their homes. With a vision and passion for changing health care for the better, we are working to improve the patient experience, close the patient-provider accessibility gap, and bring providers opportunities to augment the services they currently offer. To learn more about MDLIVE, visit www.MDLIVE.com, download our app, or text "Sophie" to MDLIVE (635483) to register.

Media Contact

Meaghan MacDonald

1 (860) 840-1212

[email protected]

SOURCE Cigna

Related Links

https://www.cigna.com


CHICO, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CloudCoin is set to to join BitCoin in over 40,000 ATM machines worldwide including 15,000 in the United States alone. According to CloudCoin Founder Sean Worthington, the ATM machines which are owned and operated by B4U Financial will allow users to withdraw cash from their CloudCoin account as well as buy and sell CloudCoin right from the ATM's. For more information as well ATM locations, go to www.b4uatm.com.

Also, in the coming weeks, CloudCoin will be making a HUGE impact in the gambling and casino industry worldwide.

One of the major advantages is that CloudCoin is "Quantum Safe". Quantum computers will make the Blockchain vulnerable to advanced decrypting software. The RAIDA (Redundant Array of Independent Detection Agents) protocol on which CloudCoin is built, uses authentication as opposed to encryption to determine the ownership of a coin. This RAIDA technology will also be the backbone behind secure servers, e-mail, and financial transactions everywhere.



CloudCoin is also a "green & clean" crypto. A growing number of socially and environmentally-conscious investors want to put their money into something they can feel good about. The amount of energy usage to process a Bitcoin transaction caused Elon Musk to reverse his initial decision to accept Bitcoin to purchase Tesla vehicles. Economic and environmental authorities are starting to take notice. The European Central Bank recently described crypto-assets' exorbitant carbon footprint as "grounds for concern", with Bitcoin's annual energy consumption being half that of the entire UK, and growing.



Bitcoin is also plagued by slow transaction times, with transactions taking from hours to days. In comparison, CloudCoin transactions take microseconds to transact. You can also transfer CloudCoins through messaging and email apps like Telegram or Gmail. And unlike other cryptos, these transactions are free.



Finally, unlike Bitcoin, CloudCoins are recoverable if they are lost. Studies have shown approximately 20% of Bitcoin has been "lost". This equated to over 140 BILLION dollars lost. CloudCoin has two separate methods of recovering lost coins. This truly sets CloudCoin above and beyond the rest.



With CloudCoin also coming very soon to literally tens of thousands of ATMS worldwide, CloudCoin will soon be on the lips and in the wallets of individuals, merchants, and investors everywhere.

Contact:

Jamie T. Waterman

Media Liaison

707-478-3667

[email protected]

www.CloudCoin.Global

SOURCE CloudCoin

Related Links

www.cloudcoin.global


SKANES FAGERHULT, Sweden, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Concentric AB ("Concentric") has reached an agreement to acquire Engineered Machined Products, Inc. ("EMP"), a leading US producer of electric and mechanical water and oil pumps, electric fans, thermal management systems and precision machined components for MSEK 1,260 (MUSD 147) on a cash and debt free basis. The entire consideration will be paid in cash and the transaction is expected to close on 29 October 2021. The acquisition is a transformational event as it strengthens Concentric's capabilities in electrical products including electrical fans, e-oil and e-water pumps and will increase the company's revenues by more than 50% on an annual basis.

Technology + Innovation = Sustainability

Concentric's focus is to develop world class technology with innovative solutions that meet the sustainability needs of our customers. As transport systems and support infrastructures move to a CO2 neutral future, there are several competing technologies with fuel cells, battery and hybrid solutions. With EMP's product portfolio Concentric can offer its customers products that are universally applicable regardless of the preferred technology. In addition, EMP's thermal system capabilities gives Concentric the ability to supply entire integrated cooling systems.

Financial implications of the transaction

EMP will be consolidated into Concentric's accounts, subject to any post-closing conditions, from 29 October 2021 .

. For the 12-month period ending December 2021 , EMP forecast revenues of about MSEK 1,095 (MUSD 127) and adjusted EBITDA of about MSEK 147 (MUSD 17).

, EMP forecast revenues of about MSEK 1,095 (MUSD 127) and adjusted EBITDA of about MSEK 147 (MUSD 17). Concentric will pay MSEK 1,260 (MUSD 147) in cash on a debt and cash free basis, however taking on finance leases of equipment of about MSEK 37 (MUSD 4), valuing EMP at 8.6x FYF 2021 adjusted EBITDA

Concentric will finance the transaction using MSEK 1,072 (MUSD 125) of debt, with the remainder being funded from existing cash reserves. The debt will be made up of a new MSEK 858 (MUSD 100) term loan facility with the remaining MSEK 214 (MUSD 25) drawn down from an existing revolving credit facility.

David Woolley, CEO of Concentric, comments:

"This is a landmark transaction, and a step change in Concentric's electrification strategy as we dramatically increase our capacity, technological know-how and product portfolio to accelerate our growth in electrical products. We are now on track to beat our ambitious target of having 20% of group sales stemming from electrical products by 2025. EMP is predominantly active in North America enabling significant growth opportunities by expanding their geographical reach through our global presence and sales force. As EMP also has relationships with a number of key customers in Concentric's markets the combination of the two companies increases the combined value proposition to these customers and provides Concentric with access to new customers and platforms in our current markets. EMP has been family owned for 30 years, and it is with great mutual respect that we now embark on this exciting journey together. I'm impressed by the employees and leadership at EMP and I know we have a close cultural fit that will be critical to our future success."

Brandon Larche, President and Chief Operating Officer of EMP comments:

"Concentric is the ideal partner to carry on the EMP legacy. They have an extensive global footprint and strong relationships with major international customers which will help drive EMP's growth in Europe and Asia. EMP has a long history of serving major OEM's, particularly in the North American market and aligning with Concentric will give us additional scale, resources and access to a truly global company that is committed to innovation and growth. We are excited to become part of Concentric AB, and I look forward to continuing to lead the EMP team within the combined organisation."

About EMP

EMP employs over 400 people and has a long track record starting 2006 of developing and commercialising e-pumps and other electrical products and systems. EMP has an extensive in-house electrical engineering team, allowing them to have significant involvement in the design and validation processes. EMP also produces a range of mechanical pumps which will complement Concentric's existing product portfolio and demonstrates an impressive ability to leverage robotics and automation techniques in their manufacturing processes. Further, EMP has long established relationships with major global OEMs and as they are primarily active in North America, Concentric's global footprint will offer an opportunity to grow the EMP business in Europe and Asia.

For further information about EMP, please see the enclosed presentation and the EMP website www.EMP-corp.com

This information is of the type that Concentric AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out below, at 07.00 CET on 26 October, 2021.

CONTACT:

For additional information please contact Marcus Whitehouse, telephone +44-121-445 6545

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/concentric-ab/r/concentric-ab-acquires-emp-inc-for-msek-1-260--musd-147--in-a-transformational-deal-to-support-the-e,c3431396

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/1643/3431396/1486098.pdf Release https://mb.cision.com/Public/1643/3431396/967d266bdd86fb10.pptx EMP Corporate Presentation

SOURCE Concentric AB
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Continental Resources, Inc. (NYSE: CLR) (the "Company") today announced its third quarter 2021 production results and record free cash flow (non-GAAP) and rescheduled its third quarter 2021 earnings release and conference call.

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/95419/continental_resources_logo.jpg

Third quarter 2021 total production averaged approximately 331.4 MBoepd. Third quarter 2021 oil production averaged approximately 157.2 MBopd. Third quarter 2021 natural gas production averaged approximately 1,046 MMcfpd.

The Company generated approximately $1.02 billion of cash flow from operations and a Company record $669 million of free cash flow (non-GAAP) for the third quarter 2021. Non-acquisition capital expenditures attributable to the Company for third quarter 2021 totaled approximately $384 million. The Company has reduced its total debt to $4.74 billion and with a cash balance of $694 million, this equates to net debt (non-GAAP) of $4.05 billion as of September 30, 2021.

"We have elected to continue focusing on natural gas development in Oklahoma based on favorable market conditions. This resulted in an approximate 80 MMcfpd increase in natural gas and 4 MBopd reduction in oil to third quarter 2021 production results in Oklahoma vs. prior projections. Additionally, in support of our industry-leading ESG gas capture stewardship in the Bakken, we voluntarily curtailed an incremental 3 MBopd in third quarter 2021 during unplanned midstream outages," said Bill Berry, Chief Executive Officer.

The Company is rescheduling its third quarter 2021 earnings release and conference call. The Company plans to announce third quarter 2021 results on Wednesday, November 3, 2021 after the close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange. The Company also plans to host a conference call to discuss third quarter 2021 results on Thursday, November 4, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. ET (10:00 a.m. CT). Those wishing to listen to the conference call may do so via the Company's website at www.CLR.com or by phone:

Time and date: 11:00 a.m. ET, Thursday, November 4, 2021 Dial-in: 1-888-317-6003 Intl. dial-in: 1-412-317-6061 Conference ID: 8481323

A replay of the call will be available for 14 days on the Company's website or by dialing:

Replay number: 1-877-344-7529 Intl. replay: 1-412-317-0088 Conference ID: 10160546

The Company plans to publish a third quarter 2021 summary presentation to its website at www.CLR.com prior to the start of its conference call on Thursday, November 4, 2021.

Free cash flow and net debt are non-GAAP financial measures. Definitions and explanations for how these measures relate to the most directly comparable U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) financial measures are provided at the conclusion of this press release.

About Continental Resources

Continental Resources (NYSE: CLR) is a top 10 independent oil producer in the U.S. and a leader in America's energy renaissance. Based in Oklahoma City, Continental is the largest leaseholder and the largest producer in the nation's premier oil field, the Bakken play of North Dakota and Montana. The Company has significant positions in Oklahoma, including its SCOOP Woodford and SCOOP Springer discoveries and the STACK play. The Company also has a newly acquired position in the Powder River Basin play of Wyoming. With a focus on the exploration and production of oil, Continental has unlocked the technology and resources vital to American energy independence and our nation's leadership in the new world oil market. In 2021, the Company will celebrate 54 years of operations. For more information, please visit www.CLR.com.

Cautionary Statement for the Purpose of the "Safe Harbor" Provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements included in this press release other than statements of historical fact, including, but not limited to, forecasts or expectations regarding the Company's business and statements or information concerning the Company's future operations, performance, financial condition, production and reserves, schedules, plans, timing of development, rates of return, budgets, costs, business strategy, objectives, and cash flows are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, the words "could," "may," "believe," "anticipate," "intend," "estimate," "expect," "project," "budget," "target," "plan," "continue," "potential," "guidance," "strategy," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such identifying words.

Forward-looking statements are based on the Company's current expectations and assumptions about future events and currently available information as to the outcome and timing of future events. Although the Company believes these assumptions and expectations are reasonable, they are inherently subject to numerous business, economic, competitive, regulatory and other risks and uncertainties, most of which are difficult to predict and many of which are beyond the Company's control. No assurance can be given that such expectations will be correct or achieved or that the assumptions are accurate. The risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, commodity price volatility; the geographic concentration of our operations; financial market and economic volatility; the effects of any national or international health crisis; the inability to access needed capital; the risks and potential liabilities inherent in crude oil and natural gas drilling and production and the availability of insurance to cover any losses resulting therefrom; difficulties in estimating proved reserves and other reserves-based measures; declines in the values of our crude oil and natural gas properties resulting in impairment charges; our ability to replace proved reserves and sustain production; our ability to pay future dividends or complete share repurchases; the availability or cost of equipment and oilfield services; leasehold terms expiring on undeveloped acreage before production can be established; our ability to project future production, achieve targeted results in drilling and well operations and predict the amount and timing of development expenditures; the availability and cost of transportation, processing and refining facilities; legislative and regulatory changes adversely affecting our industry and our business, including initiatives related to hydraulic fracturing and greenhouse gas emissions; increased market and industry competition, including from alternative fuels and other energy sources; and the other risks described under Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors and elsewhere in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, registration statements and other reports filed from time to time with the SEC, and other announcements the Company makes from time to time.

Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which such statement is made. Should one or more of the risks or uncertainties described in this press release occur, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, the Company's actual results and plans could differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Except as otherwise required by applicable law, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly correct or update any forward-looking statement whether as a result of new information, future events or circumstances after the date of this report, or otherwise.

Readers are cautioned that initial production rates are subject to decline over time and should not be regarded as reflective of sustained production levels. In particular, production from horizontal drilling in shale oil and natural gas resource plays and tight natural gas plays that are stimulated with extensive pressure fracturing are typically characterized by significant early declines in production rates.

We use the term "EUR" or "estimated ultimate recovery" to describe our best estimate of recoverable oil and natural gas hydrocarbon quantities. Actual reserves recovered may differ from estimated quantities. EUR data included herein, if any, remain subject to change as more well data is analyzed.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Free Cash Flow

Free cash flow is a non-GAAP measure. We define free cash flow as cash flows from operations before changes in working capital items, less capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, plus noncontrolling interest capital contributions, less distributions to noncontrolling interests. Noncontrolling interest capital contributions and distributions primarily relate to our relationship formed with Franco-Nevada in 2018 to fund a portion of certain mineral acquisitions which are included in our capital expenditures and operating results. Free cash flow is not a measure of net income or operating cash flows as determined by U.S. GAAP and should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, the comparable GAAP measure, and free cash flow does not represent residual cash flows available for discretionary expenditures. Management believes this measure is useful to management and investors as a measure of a company's ability to internally fund its capital expenditures, to service or incur additional debt, and to measure management's success in creating shareholder value. From time to time the Company provides forward-looking free cash flow estimates or targets; however, the Company is unable to provide a quantitative reconciliation of this forward-looking non-GAAP measure to the most directly comparable forward-looking GAAP measure because management cannot reliably quantify certain of the necessary components of such forward-looking GAAP measure. The reconciling items in future periods could be significant.

The following table reconciles net cash provided by operating activities as determined under U.S. GAAP to free cash flow for the three months ended September 30, 2021.













In thousands

3Q 2021



Net cash provided by operating activities (GAAP)

$ 1,015,535





Exclude: Changes in working capital items

42,282





Less: Capital expenditures (1)

(389,746)





Plus: Contributions from noncontrolling interests

6,672





Less: Distributions to noncontrolling interests

(5,299)





Free cash flow (non-GAAP)

$ 669,444















(1) Capital expenditures are calculated as follows:







In thousands

3Q 2021



Cash paid for capital expenditures

$ 356,827





Less: Total acquisitions

(22,055)





Plus: Change in accrued capital expenditures & other

54,552





Plus: Exploratory seismic costs

422





Capital expenditures

$ 389,746





Net Debt

Net debt is a non-GAAP measure. We define net debt as total debt less cash and cash equivalents as determined under U.S. GAAP. Net debt should not be considered an alternative to, or more meaningful than, total debt, the most directly comparable GAAP measure. Management uses net debt to determine the Company's outstanding debt obligations that would not be readily satisfied by its cash and cash equivalents on hand. We believe this metric is useful to analysts and investors in determining the Company's leverage position since the Company has the ability to, and may decide to, use a portion of its cash and cash equivalents to reduce debt. At September 30, 2021, the Company's total debt was $4.74 billion and its net debt amounted to $4.05 billion, representing total debt of $4.74 billion less cash and cash equivalents of $694 million.

Investor Contacts: Media Contact: Rory Sabino Kristin Thomas Vice President, Investor Relations Senior Vice President, Public Relations 405-234-9620 405-234-9480 [email protected] [email protected]



Lucy Spaay

Investor Relations Analyst

405-774-5878

[email protected]



SOURCE Continental Resources

Related Links

http://www.clr.com


FORT WORTH, Texas, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Crestline Investors, Inc., a credit focused institutional alternative asset manager, today announced that Keith Williams was promoted to co-Chief Investment Officer of the firm. Williams, who joined Crestline in 2012 as Managing Director & Senior Portfolio Manager, is a Managing Partner of Crestline and member of the firm's Management Committee.

As co-CIO of Crestline, Williams will help guide policies and strategies on a firmwide basis across all investments. In addition, he will continue as a Managing Partner of the firm, where he oversees Crestline's Credit Strategies.

"The elevation of Keith to co-CIO ensures long-term continuity in our senior leadership and enables the firm's growing portfolio of opportunistic and direct lending strategies to continue executing the same proven investment processes built over the last 24 years," said Douglas Bratton, Founding Partner, CEO and Co-Chief Investment Officer of Crestline. "Under Keith's leadership Crestline has established itself as a premier lender within the middle and lower middle markets and has committed more than $8.0 billion in its Opportunistic and Direct Lending Strategies to date. I have been pleased to call Keith my partner for the last five years and look forward to building on this close collaboration for the benefit of our investors, employees and portfolio companies."

"I look forward to working shoulder-to-shoulder with Doug as co-CIO of Crestline," said Williams. "The firm has built a strong private credit franchise by specializing in meeting the underserved capital needs of the middle and lower middle markets. Our ongoing success is a testament to the quality of our investment professionals and our proven approach to both preserving investors' capital and generating consistent risk-adjusted returns over multiple market and economic cycles."

Williams became a partner of Crestline in 2016. He joined Crestline from McKinsey & Co., where he was a senior member of McKinsey's Recovery & Transformation Practice. Before that, he was a senior member of the Special Situations Group at Goldman Sachs, where he developed and implemented liquid and illiquid distressed investing strategies and was responsible for deal sourcing and execution for private debt strategies.

Williams has a BBA in Finance from Southern Methodist University and a MBA from Rice University.

About Crestline Investors, Inc.

Crestline Investors, Inc., founded in 1997 and based in Fort Worth, Texas, is an institutional alternative investment management firm with approximately $13.6 billion of assets under management.1 Crestline specializes in credit and opportunistic investments, including financing and restructuring solutions for mature private equity funds. In addition, the firm manages a multi-PM equity market-neutral hedge fund and provides beta and hedging solutions for institutional clients. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, the company maintains affiliate offices in New York City, London, Toronto, and Tokyo. For more information, please visit www.crestlineinvestors.com.

Media Contact:

Cristina Martinez

(617) 909-6610

Prosek Partners









1 Assets under management as of June 30, 2021.

SOURCE Crestline Investors, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.crestlineinvestors.com


DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Dermatology CRO Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Preclinical, Clinical, Drug Discovery), By Service (Clinical Monitoring, Regulatory/Medical Affairs), By Region, and Segment Forecasts, 2021-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global dermatology CRO market size is expected to reach USD 7.04 billion by 2028. It is expected to expand at a CAGR of 6.9% from 2021 to 2028. The rise in demand for topical dermatological medications, such as anti-inflammatory agents, anti-infective, local anesthetics, cleansers, and emollients, to treat acne is a major factor driving the market. Furthermore, increased awareness regarding skin diseases, high demand for speedy diagnosis, and an increase in the prevalence of skin cancer and other skin problems are all driving the industry forward.



The COVID-19 pandemic shook the economy in 2020 and has an ongoing impact on various industries across the globe. The market for dermatology contract research organizations (CRO) was largely unaffected by the repercussions of the pandemic owing to the emergence of virtual clinical trials and government initiatives to sustain the disrupted supply chains in healthcare. Moreover, with the ongoing vaccination drives and lifting of shelter in place mandates, the bottlenecking of clinical trials is improving. Thus, the future seems good for the market.



Factors such as increased investment in R&D programs, a preference for outsourcing tasks due to time and cost constraints, and patent expiration in the dermatology industry are some of the key factors expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Contract research outsourcing collaborations provide cutting-edge services, thus pharmaceutical players and government agencies prefer to delegate projects to dermatology CROs, allowing the market to develop.



Dermatology CRO Market Report Highlights

Based on type, the clinical segment grabbed the largest revenue share of over 75.0% in 2020 owing to technological advancements, globalization of clinical trials, and the need for dermatology CROs to conduct clinical trials.

In the clinical type segment, the phase III segment accounted for the largest revenue share of over 50.0% in 2020 as phase III clinical trials are the most expensive and involve a large patient pool.

By service, clinical monitoring held the largest revenue share in 2020 owing to an increase in the number of clinical trials and the need to monitor those trials efficiently.

Asia Pacific captured the largest revenue share of over 40.0% in 2020. This is due to the high prevalence of skin disorders, diversity in populations, the ease with which patients may be recruited and retained, and improving regulatory framework.

Companies Mentioned

IQVIA

Covance, Inc.

Pharmaceutical Product development, Inc.

Parexel International Corporation

Charles River Laboratories International, Inc.

Icon, Plc

Syneos Health

Wuxi Apptec

Bioskin

Proinnovera

Key Topics Covered:

Chapter 1. Methodology and Scope

1.1. Market Segmentation & Scope

1.2. Research Methodology

1.3. Information Procurement

1.4. Information or Data Analysis

1.5. Market Formulation & Validation

1.6. Model Details

1.7. List of Secondary Sources

1.8. List of Primary Sources

1.9. Objectives

Chapter 2. Executive Summary

2.1. Market Outlook

2.2. Segment Outlook

2.3. Competitive Insights

Chapter 3. Dermatology CRO Market Variables, Trends, & Scope

3.1. Market Lineage Outlook

3.2. Penetration & Growth Prospect Mapping

3.3. Market Dynamics

3.4. Dermatology CRO: Market Analysis Tools

3.4.2. PESTEL analysis

Chapter 4. Dermatology CRO Market: Segment Analysis, by Type, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

4.1. Dermatology CRO Market: Type Movement Analysis

4.2. Drug Discovery

4.2.1. Drug discovery market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

4.2.1.1. Target Validation

4.2.1.1.1. Target validation market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

4.2.1.2. Lead Identification

4.2.1.2.1. Lead identification market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

4.2.1.3. Lead optimization

4.2.1.3.1. Lead optimization market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

4.3. Preclinical

4.3.1. Preclinical market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

4.4. Clinical

4.4.1. Clinical market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

Chapter 5. Dermatology CRO Market: Segment Analysis, by Service, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.1. Dermatology CRO Market: Service Movement Analysis

5.2. Project Management/Clinical Supply Management

5.2.1. Project management/clinical supply management market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.3. Data Management

5.3.1. Data management market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.4. Regulatory/Medical Affairs

5.4.1. Regulatory/medical affairs market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.5. Medical Writing

5.5.1. Medical writing market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.6. Clinical Monitoring

5.6.1. Clinical monitoring market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.7. Quality Management/ Assurance

5.7.1. Quality management/ assurance market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.8. Bio-statistics

5.8.1. Bio-statistics market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.9. Investigator Payments

5.9.1. Investigator payments market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.10. Laboratory

5.10.1. Laboratory market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.11. Patient and Site Recruitment

5.11.1. Patient & site recruitment market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.12. Technology

5.12.1. Technology market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.13. Others

5.13.1. Others market, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

Chapter 6. Dermatology CRO Market: Regional Market Analysis, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.1. Regional Market Dashboard

6.2. Regional Market Share Analysis, 2020 & 2028

6.3. North America

6.3.1. North America market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.3.2. U.S.

6.3.2.1. U.S. market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.3.3. Canada

6.3.3.1. Canada market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.4. Europe

6.4.1. Europe market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.4.2. U.K.

6.4.2.1. U.K. market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.4.3. Germany

6.4.3.1. Germany market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.4.4. France

6.4.4.1. France market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.4.5. Italy

6.4.5.1. Italy market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.4.6. Spain

6.4.6.1. Spain market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.5. Asia Pacific

6.5.1. Asia Pacific market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.5.2. India

6.5.2.1. India market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.5.3. Japan

6.5.3.1. Japan market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.5.4. China

6.5.4.1. China market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.5.5. Australia

6.5.5.1. Australia market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.5.6. South Korea

6.5.6.1. South Korea market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.6. Latin America

6.6.1. Latin America market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.6.2. Brazil

6.6.2.1. Brazil market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.6.3. Mexico

6.6.3.1. Mexico market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.6.4. Argentina

6.6.4.1. Argentina market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.6.5. Colombia

6.6.5.1. Colombia market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.6.6. Chile

6.6.6.1. Chile market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.7. MEA

6.7.1. MEA market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.7.2. South Africa

6.7.2.1. South Africa market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.7.3. Saudi Arabia

6.7.3.1. Saudi Arabia market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.7.4. UAE

6.7.4.1. UAE market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.7.5. Iran

6.7.5.1. Iran market estimates and forecasts, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.7.6. Israel

6.7.6.1. Israel market estimates and forecast, 2016 - 2028 (USD Million)

Chapter 7. Dermatology CRO Market - Competitive Analysis



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/2p4rka

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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For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900

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Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

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NORTH BILLERICA, Mass., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS), in partnership with Curriculum Associates, recently named Patricia Trejo, administrative program planner for Hispanic/Latino studies at the School District of Palm Beach County in Florida, as the 2021 ALAS Scholarship recipient. Trejo will receive $10,000 toward her doctoral degree in educational leadership through the scholarship, which helps support the professional advancement of Latino administrators.

"We are thrilled at the opportunity Curriculum Associates provides by funding a $10,000 scholarship for an ALAS member," said Dr. Maria Armstrong, executive director of ALAS. "This year, Mrs. Patricia Trejo is a deserving recipient as she pursues her education in earning a doctoral degree. As a cofacilitator of our Linking Latina Leaders Network, she coordinates and promotes webinars that connect our ALAS members on topics of relevance and advocates for all children, with an emphasis on historically marginalized youth. ALAS is proud to have a member as dedicated to ALAS and her home state affiliate as she is."

Trejo is an accomplished educator who graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in political science and a minor degree in mass communications, and then from Nova Southeastern University with her master's degree in educational leadership. She has served in a number of roles throughout her 23-year career in public education, including teacher, learning team facilitator, assistant principal, and principal.

Now, in her current role, Trejo helps infuse Latino history and culture into the district's curriculum and instruction. She also provides professional development to teachers and administrators districtwide, organizes an annual Hispanic/Latino Studies Summer Institute, and collaborates with the community to help provide mentors for Latino youth, foster parental involvement, and assist with community outreach.

Additionally, Trejo currently serves as president for Florida ALAS, secretary for the state affiliates of ALAS, and a cofacilitator for the ALAS National Linking Latina Leaders Network. She is also a graduate of the Superintendents Leadership Academy Cohort X hosted by ALAS.

"As a Mexican migrant child and English Language Learner raised by immigrant parents who were farmworkers, I never thought I would be on the path to earning a doctoral degree in educational leadership," said Trejo. "I am touched and grateful to have been awarded the scholarship from [ALAS] and Curriculum Associates and to receive the incredible support I have from both organizations. I am inspired and look forward to making a greater impact by helping develop equitable learning experiences for all students."

"Patricia is a servant leader who has positively impacted so many students and educators throughout her years in public education," said Claudia Salinas, vice president of English learning at Curriculum Associates. "Alongside ALAS, we are proud to support her ongoing education and professional advancement as she takes this next step in her notable career."

Trejo was presented the ALAS Scholarship Award during the ALAS National Annual Education Summit earlier this month. This is the seventh consecutive year Curriculum Associates has partnered with ALAS on the scholarship.

To learn more about the ALAS Scholarship Awards, visit ALASEdu.org/About/17458-2/.

About the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS)

ALAS is committed to providing a perspective to all aspiring school and district administrators including superintendents through programs, services, advocacy, and networks rooted in Latino experiences and culture. ALAS has nearly 8,000 members across 18 state affiliates, with several more states soon to be a part of the ALAS familia. Our vision, mission, and goal is to provide leadership at the national level that ensures every school in America effectively serves the educational needs of all students with an emphasis on Latino and other historically marginalized youth through continuous professional learning, policy advocacy, and networking to share practices of promise for our students and the communities where we serve.

By the year 2026, Latino children will make up 30 percent of the school-age population. In the nation's largest statesCalifornia, Texas, Florida, and New York, all of whom are ALAS State AffiliatesLatinos already have reached that level. It is of vital interest to invest in the education of every child and the professional learning of all educators who serve Latino youth.

About Curriculum Associates

Founded in 1969, Curriculum Associates, LLC designs research-based print and online instructional materials, screens and assessments, and data management tools. The company's products and outstanding customer service provide teachers and administrators with the resources necessary for teaching diverse student populations and fostering learning for all students.

Contact: Kati Elliott Charlotte Fixler

KEH Communications Curriculum Associates

(410) 975-9638 (978) 901-6066

[email protected] [email protected]

SOURCE Curriculum Associates, LLC

Related Links

www.curriculumassociates.com


TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Emmaus Life Sciences, Inc. (OTC: EMMA) a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company and leader in the treatment of sickle cell disease, today announced the submission of its application for marketing authorization of Endari to the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) Ministry of Health. Review of the application is expected to take 10 to 12 months. During the review period, Endari may be prescribed in the U.A.E. on a named patient, or early access, basis.

Emmaus estimates that as many as 600 sickle cell disease patients live or work in the U.A.E. and approximately 225,000 sickle cell disease patients throughout the Middle East North Africa (MENA) region who could potentially be treated with Endari.

"This U.A.E application submission is the first of several full marketing applications we expect to file in Gulf Cooperation Council states for Endari, to treat the numerous sickle cell disease patients in the MENA region," stated Yutaka Niihara, M.D., M.P.H., Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Emmaus.

George Sekulich, Senior Vice President of Global Commercialization of Emmaus added, "We look forward to working with the U.A.E Ministry of Health to bring this important medication to our patient population in the Emirates. In the meantime, Endari continues be available on a named patient basis throughout the MENA region."

About Emmaus Life Sciences

Emmaus Life Sciences, Inc. is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company and leader in the treatment of sickle cell disease. The company currently markets U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Endari (L-glutamine oral powder) indicated to reduce the acute complications of sickle cell disease in adults and children 5 years and older. The company is also engaged in the discovery and development of innovative treatments and therapies for certain rare and orphan diseases as well as those affecting larger populations, such as diverticulosis. For more information, please visit www.emmausmedical.com.

About Endari (prescription grade L-glutamine oral powder)

Endari, Emmaus' prescription grade L-glutamine oral powder, was approved by the FDA in July 2017 for treating sickle cell disease in adult and pediatric patients five years of age and older. Sales of Endari began in the United States in 2018.

Indication

Endari is indicated to reduce the acute complications of sickle cell disease in adult and pediatric patients five years of age and older.

Important Safety Information

The most common adverse reactions (incidence >10 percent) in clinical studies were constipation, nausea, headache, abdominal pain, cough, pain in extremities, back pain, and chest pain.

Adverse reactions leading to treatment discontinuation included one case each of hypersplenism, abdominal pain, dyspepsia, burning sensation, and hot flash.

The safety and efficacy of Endari in pediatric patients with sickle cell disease younger than five years of age has not been established.

For more information, please see full Prescribing Information of Endari at: www.ENDARIrx.com/PI.

About Sickle Cell Disease

There are approximately 100,000 people living with sickle cell disease (SCD) in the United States and millions more globally. The sickle gene is found in every ethnic group, not just among those of African descent; and in the United States an estimated 1-in-365 African Americans and 1-in-16,300 Hispanic Americans are born with SCD.1 The genetic mutation responsible for SCD causes an individual's red blood cells to distort into a "C" or a sickle shape, reducing their ability to transport oxygen throughout the body. These sickled red blood cells break down rapidly, become very sticky, and develop a propensity to clump together, which causes them to become stuck and cause damage within blood vessels. The result is reduced blood flow to distal organs, which leads to physical symptoms of incapacitating pain, tissue and organ damage, and early death.2

1Source: Data & Statistics on Sickle Cell Disease  National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, December 2020.

2Source: Committee on Addressing Sickle Cell Disease  A Strategic Plan and Blueprint for Action -- National Academy of Sciences Press, 2020.

Forward-looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including statements regarding possible eventual marketing approval of Endari in the U.A.E. These forward-looking statements are subject to numerous assumptions, risks and uncertainties which change over time, including risks inherent in the regulatory approval process and other factors previously disclosed in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K/A filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on August 10, 2021 and other SEC reports, and actual results may differ materially. Such forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and Emmaus assumes no duty to update them, except as may be required by law.

SOURCE Emmaus Life Sciences, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.emmausmedical.com


NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Firmament, a leading provider of tailored capital solutions to small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), announced today its investment in Controltec, Inc., provider of childcare subsidy management software to state governments and local childcare agencies, and COPA, a provider of data management solutions for early childhood education programs such as Head Start. By combining the two companies under the Controltec name, Firmament has created the national leader in the publicly funded childcare sector.

The most recent United States Treasury Department data shows the cost of childcare remains unaffordable at 13% of family income for an average family with one child1. Ted Wong, Principal at Firmament, remarked, "In addition to the affordability challenges, families have experienced significant, ongoing disruptions to childcare arrangements since the onset of COVID-19. Many working parents cannot return to their original employment as they are struggling to find available care during the workday. We believe that technology and software providers like Controltec and COPA play a vital role in addressing this crisis by facilitating access to childcare and public funding."

The combined company will be led by newly appointed President and CEO Lara Oerter, who brings decades of experience from the software industry including 10+ years at education technology leader Blackboard, Inc. as well as experience in state and local government software and K-12 education consulting. Ms. Oerter shared her vision and excitement: "I am honored to become part of the combined Controltec and COPA team and to have this unique opportunity to create a national leader in the childcare management software industry, tackling one of the most pressing social issues of our time. The addition of COPA to the Controltec team is another big step forward for us as we add Head Start expertise to Controltec's longstanding leadership within childcare subsidy management."

Controltec was founded by Norbert Haupt, who has 30+ years of experience in the childcare industry and will transition to the role of Executive Chairman. Mr. Haupt will focus day-to-day on business development and strategic partnerships. Mr. Haupt commented: "On behalf of the entire Controltec team, we are delighted to partner with Firmament and to have Lara join us at this unique time when the childcare sector is experiencing an unprecedented level of change. Firmament's support and Lara's leadership will help us build upon the remarkable progress we have already made in developing best-in-class solutions for state and local governments."

Hamid Kelishadi founded COPA software in 2000 and is joining Controltec to lead their Head Start business. Mr. Kelishadi stated: "I have known Norbert Haupt for many years prior to this transaction. I could not be more excited about partnering with Lara and Norbert to pursue the unique opportunity for Controltec and COPA to jointly serve childcare providers across the nation."

Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Alkali Partners, an independent investment bank, facilitated this transaction as the financial advisor to Controltec.

About Controltec

Controltec (www.controltec.com) provides subsidy management solutions for childcare providers and agencies throughout the United States. Built and supported by industry experts, all of Controltec's innovative software and custom solutions share a single goal: allowing users to work smarter and more cost-effectively. Implementation of the Company's systems enables social service agencies and childcare providers to manage cases more efficiently, reduce clerical errors, remove worker frustration, and reduce fraud.

About COPA

COPA (www.mycopa.com) provides web-based data management software solution for Early Childhood Education programs and community services. COPA's solution is used by Head Start, Family Child Care, Early Head Start, State Funded Pre-K, locally designed and Community Action Programs across the nation to track, manage and monitor data, and report outcomes. COPA's clients include city and state governments, school districts, federally and state funded programs and other institutions in the United States, U. S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico.

About Firmament

Firmament (www.thefirmamentgroup.com) provides tailored equity and debt capital solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises. Firmament is a value-added partner to entrepreneurs, management teams and business owners and curates solutions by deploying versatile capital in a user-friendly way. Firmament concentrates on software and services businesses with significant scaling potential in the healthcare, logistics, wellness and environmental sectors. With offices across the United States and in the United Kingdom, Firmament is focused on turning small business into big business.

CONTACT: Allie Reitman, [email protected]

1 U.S. Department of the Treasury, "The Economics of Child Care Supply in the United States", September 2021.

SOURCE The Firmament Group

Related Links

www.thefirmamentgroup.com


NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- FoodBytes! by Rabobank has revealed the fifteen food and agriculture startups who will move forward to present at this year's FoodBytes! Pitch virtual competition on November 10. The finalists were chosen amongst the cohort of 45 global startups previously selected as participants in FoodBytes! Pitch 2021, Rabobank's multi-week food and agriculture innovation program that drives collaboration between startups, corporate leaders and investors to develop solutions to food system challenges.

These innovations are a window to the 2030 global food system, increasing nutrition of food and reducing climate impact. Tweet this FoodBytes! by Rabobank revealed fifteen food and agriculture startups who will present at this years FoodBytes! Pitch virtual competition on November 10. FoodBytes! is Rabobanks multi-week food and agriculture innovation program that drives collaboration between startups, corporate leaders and investors to develop solutions to food system challenges. For more information on FoodBytes! Pitch 2021, or to purchase tickets to view, visit: https://www.foodbytesworld.com/events/.

The fifteen companies advancing to the virtual pitch competition were selected based on their groundbreaking technologies and products. The finalists will be judged by a panel of industry leaders, including:

Anne Greven , Global Head of Startup Innovation, Rabobank and FoodBytes! by Rabobank

, Global Head of Startup Innovation, Rabobank and FoodBytes! by Rabobank Mark Abrams , Managing Director, EPP, Rabobank

, Managing Director, EPP, Rabobank Mary Shelman , Founder, The Shelman Group

, Founder, Natasha Dhayagude , CEO, Chinova Bioworks , and a FoodBytes! Alumni

, CEO, , and a FoodBytes! Alumni Nick Fereday , Senior Consumer Foods Analyst, RaboResearch

The livestreamed public pitch competition will culminate in naming three FoodBytes! Pitch 2021 winners, one for each sector. Winners will gain invaluable exposure to influential stakeholders within the industry and will receive consulting services from FoodBytes! Pitch member companies.

"The finalists for this year's FoodBytes! Pitch exemplify the new food economy," said Anne Greven, Global Head of Startup Innovation, Rabobank and FoodBytes! by Rabobank. "These startups have created scalable solutions to some of the most pressing and complicated industry challenges, from meat packing automation and plant-based protein simplification, to commercial delivery of microbial inputs and whole-value-chain plastic reduction. Their innovations are a window to the 2030 global food system that will significantly increase the nutrition of food while reducing its climate impact from field to fork. Through their FoodBytes! exposure, we aim to connect these innovators with the right strategic partners and investors to prolifically scale their technologies and impact."

Every year, FoodBytes! strives to highlight a diverse mix of innovators from across the industry - 60% of this year's finalists are either BIPOC or woman-led, and represent companies from North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.

The FoodBytes! Pitch presenting finalists, by sector, are:

AgTech

These five selected companies are highlighting innovations across data collection and intelligence, inventory and livestock management, and technologies to reduce reliance on traditional agriculture inputs, such as chemicals and plastic film. The selected AgTech startups are:

3Bar Biologics Inc. , Columbus, Ohio , United States : 3Bar Biologics is dedicated to improving farm yield, profitability, and sustainability using beneficial microbial products. 3Bar's proprietary biomanufacturing and delivery method unleashes the potential for microbe technologies not available for commercial production until now.

, , : 3Bar Biologics is dedicated to improving farm yield, profitability, and sustainability using beneficial microbial products. 3Bar's proprietary biomanufacturing and delivery method unleashes the potential for microbe technologies not available for commercial production until now. AgriDigital , Sydney, Australia : AgriDigital is powering trust in global agri supply chains by combining inventory, data and finance. It is building the technology and financing infrastructure for the digital grain supply chain.

, : AgriDigital is powering trust in global agri supply chains by combining inventory, data and finance. It is building the technology and financing infrastructure for the digital grain supply chain. BioLevel , Gloucester, England, United Kingdom : BioLevel has global ambitions to re-balance agriculture from Chemistry to Biology with robust, commercially proven, multi-strain, beneficial soil microbial products that do not require refrigeration and are fully scalable across all crop sectors, regulatory environments and application methods.

, : BioLevel has global ambitions to re-balance agriculture from Chemistry to Biology with robust, commercially proven, multi-strain, beneficial soil microbial products that do not require refrigeration and are fully scalable across all crop sectors, regulatory environments and application methods. SBM-TranspiratiONal , Canberra, Australia : SBM-Transpirational has developed an environmentally-friendly, sprayable biodegradable polymer membrane product that can help farmers produce more during harvest, on the same land area, while using less water, nutrients and agrochemicals.

, : SBM-Transpirational has developed an environmentally-friendly, sprayable biodegradable polymer membrane product that can help farmers produce more during harvest, on the same land area, while using less water, nutrients and agrochemicals. Vytelle , Hermiston, Oregon , United States : Vytelle is a precision livestock company reshaping how cattle producers optimize their herds. Its solutions reduce uncertainty to help producers make the most important mating and reproduction decisions.

Food Tech

These startups are focused on plastic packaging reduction, automation in food processing and procurement to address labor shortages, and pioneering new clean label ingredients. The five selected Food Tech companies are:

Cruz Foam , Santa Cruz, California , United States : Cruz Foam is a bio-material technology company that produces certified compostable, protective packaging foam and other eco-friendly solutions that offer a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based products using the current supply chain. Cruz Foam is a mission-driven company creating impact at scale by empowering industry leaders to be the catalyst for a cleaner environment.

, , : Cruz Foam is a bio-material technology company that produces certified compostable, protective packaging foam and other eco-friendly solutions that offer a sustainable alternative to petroleum-based products using the current supply chain. Cruz Foam is a mission-driven company creating impact at scale by empowering industry leaders to be the catalyst for a cleaner environment. Galley Solutions, Inc. , San Diego, California , United States : Galley takes the guesswork and hassle out of food production, raw material sourcing, and inventory tracking so that foodservice operators can save on costs, reduce waste, and spend more time on the work they love.

, , : Galley takes the guesswork and hassle out of food production, raw material sourcing, and inventory tracking so that foodservice operators can save on costs, reduce waste, and spend more time on the work they love. Marble Technologies , Cambridge, Massachusetts , United States : Marble Technologies is advancing food systems using AI, robotics, and process engineering to add resiliency to the agri-food supply chain. Starting with meat processing (specifically beef and pork) they are automating tasks to mitigate industry-wide labor shortages.

, , : Marble Technologies is advancing food systems using AI, robotics, and process engineering to add resiliency to the agri-food supply chain. Starting with meat processing (specifically beef and pork) they are automating tasks to mitigate industry-wide labor shortages. Papkot , Strasbourg, France : Papkot is a science and material innovation company whose mission is to change the packaging industry by cost-effectively replacing its plastic packaging with paper packaging - which is bio-sourced, 100% recyclable and 100% biodegradable.

, : Papkot is a science and material innovation company whose mission is to change the packaging industry by cost-effectively replacing its plastic packaging with paper packaging - which is bio-sourced, 100% recyclable and 100% biodegradable. Paragon Pure , Princeton, New Jersey , United States : Paragon Pure is inspired by nature to create genuine ingredients for delivering natural flavors, colors and nutrients into wholesome foods.

Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG)

The five startups selected represent the latest product innovations in food waste-derived packaging, plant-based meat alternatives, diversifying the frozen aisle, as well as food allergy prevention in babies and toddlers. The selected CPGs are:

AYO Foods , Chicago, Illinois , United States : AYO, which translates to joy, exists to celebrate the flavors and ingredients of West Africa . The brand launched in July 2020 with frozen meals and hot sauces.

, , : AYO, which translates to joy, exists to celebrate the flavors and ingredients of . The brand launched in with frozen meals and hot sauces. Fable Food , Sydney, Australia : Fable Food leverages the power of Shiitake mushrooms to create an all natural plant-based meat alternative with a mission to help end industrial animal agriculture.

, : Fable Food leverages the power of Shiitake mushrooms to create an all natural plant-based meat alternative with a mission to help end industrial animal agriculture. Great Wrap , Melbourne, Australia : Great Wrap makes home compostable cling wrap from food waste. Working out of their solar powered factory in Australia , Great Wrap is working on the tech to put plastic out of business.

, : Great Wrap makes home compostable cling wrap from food waste. Working out of their solar powered factory in , Great Wrap is working on the tech to put plastic out of business. Lil Mixins , Philadelphia, Pennsylvania , United States : Lil Mixins' intuitive Daily Mix ensures that babies receive safe, properly sized servings of all the top food allergens. Recommended by over 4,000 pediatricians and allergists, Lil Mixins is stopping food allergies before they start.

, , : Lil Mixins' intuitive Daily Mix ensures that babies receive safe, properly sized servings of all the top food allergens. Recommended by over 4,000 pediatricians and allergists, Lil Mixins is stopping food allergies before they start. Plantcraft , New York, New York , United States : Plantcraft is the world's first clean-label, plant-based deli meat company that is offering plant-curious consumers delicious products to use in a wide range of dishes, from sandwiches to pepperoni pizza. Plantcraft's products are all clean-label, vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free and free of all top 8 allergens.

While the startups prepare to take center stage on November 10, this year's 40 corporate members represent some of the most influential global food and ag companies, investors and service providers that also participated in the scoring process to help name this year's finalists. Members include returning partners Albaugh, BFG Partners, Continental Grain Company, DLL Group, Germin8 Ventures, Holland & Hart, Morrison & Foerster, PepsiCo, Propeller Industries, Rabobank Food and Agri Innovation Fund and Tate & Lyle, and first time participants AgroSuper, Aqua Capital, Bolthouse Farms, Cavallo Ventures, ECOM, Endurance Investments, Fugini, GAM, General Mills, GrainCorp, Grupo Bimbo, Grupo Nutec, Herbalife Nutrition, Hormel Foods, Imperfect Foods, InvestEco, iSelect Fund Management, JBT, Lamb Weston, Louis Dreyfus Company, Marfrig/National Beef, R.D. Offutt Company, S2G Ventures, Schreiber Foods, Seventure Partners, Step Two Advisors and Supply Change Capital.

New to this year, in addition to the startup presentations, the FoodBytes! Pitch virtual livestream will also host two thought-provoking panel discussions with industry experts, including:

The Sweet Life: Exploring Sugar Advancement for Happy and Healthy Humans

This panel takes a look at sugar and the solutions industry players are building to help shape a $60Bn global market into something more sustainable for both human and planet health.

into something more sustainable for both human and planet health. Agriculture in the Face of Climate Change: Solutions for Rapidly Changing Landscape

This panel examines the numerous climate challenges facing the agriculture industry and hones in on the solutions across the value chain attempting to mitigate them.

For more information on FoodBytes! Pitch 2021, or to purchase tickets to view, visit: https://www.foodbytesworld.com/events/ .

Membership enrollment and startup scouting for 2022 is already underway. If you're a corporate or investor interested in learning how innovation can boost your bottom line, or a startup looking to get involved in the FoodBytes! community, please email [email protected] today to start a conversation.

About Rabobank F&A Innovation

Rabobank is a leading global food and agriculture bank providing sector expertise, strategic counsel and tailored financial solutions to clients across the entire food value chain. Rabobank's F&A Innovation team supports the bank's global mission of Growing a Better World Together  helping to turn today's promising ideas into impactful solutions for a sustainable food supply. Through the FoodBytes! food and agriculture innovation platform, Rabobank has built one of the most valuable networks for corporates, investors and startups pioneering sustainable ways to feed the planet.

FoodBytes! drives collaboration between startups, large food and ag companies and investors through two complementary programs: FoodBytes! Pitch and FoodBytes! Pilot. Our approach to industry change: discovering and supporting startup innovation; and helping large food and ag companies embed and drive innovation across their organizations. To learn more, visit foodbytesworld.com or follow FoodBytes! on LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook , Instagram and YouTube .

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SOURCE FoodBytes! by Rabobank

Related Links

https://www.foodbytesworld.com/


NEW YORK and OSLO, Norway and LONDON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Forsta, the leading Customer Experience and Research Technology company created by the merger of Confirmit, FocusVision and Dapresy, announced today that TMC, a global, integrated media company, has named the Forsta Platform as a 2021 Customer Experience Innovation Award winner, presented by TMC's CUSTOMER magazine.

The 2021 Customer Experience Innovation Award recognizes best-in-class companies setting the standard in delivering exceptional customer experiences through all channels.

The Forsta Platform is a flexible, multi-channel software platform for Customer Experience (CX) insights that delivers award-winning software for Voice of the Customer (VoC), Voice of the Employee (VoE), and Market Research programs. The platform provides organizations with a one-stop, feature-rich solution to gain maximum value and insight from feedback and research projects.

Forsta's platform was recognized for innovations that enable customer experience professionals and business decision-makers to generate richer insights that fuel smarter decisions and generate faster actions. Recent Forsta platform enhancements enable consolidated business insights to be delivered in real time via mobile devices, and with a variety of compelling visual reporting options. Forsta has also made UX updates to make it easier to create engaging data and insights dashboards on any device.

"Innovation is a core tenet of our business, which is why it's an honor to have Forsta recognized for bringing innovation to the market by TMC's Customer Magazine," said Kyle Ferguson, Chief Executive Officer at Forsta. "We take great pride in listening to and collaborating with our own customers, who work across Customer Experience, Employee Experience and Market Research, which allows us to continually innovate our solutions to meet their evolving insights needs."

This marks the 13th consecutive year that Forsta has been honored by the TMC awards program, beginning in 2009 when the company's Contact Center Solution technology was named Product of the Year. In the years since, the company has been recognized multiple times for innovations within its data and insights platform (2010  2012, 2014, 2016  2018, 2020), as well as for its mobile innovation (2013), text and social analytics (2015) and digital feedback module (2019).

"Congratulations to Forsta for receiving a 2021 Customer Experience Innovation Award. The Forsta Platform has been selected for setting the standard in delivering world-class customer experiences," said Rich Tehrani, CEO, TMC. "We're pleased to recognize this achievement and know we will continue to great innovation from Forsta in 2022 and beyond."

About Forsta

Forsta is the new frontier of Customer Experience and Market Research Technology. Formed in 2021 via the merger of industry leaders Confirmit, FocusVision and Dapresy, our global company powers the richest and most comprehensive set of research and insights solutions, spanning CX, enterprise feedback management, VoC (Voice of the Customer), VoE (Voice of the Employee), Qual, Quant, Data Visualization and more. Forsta's extensive set of market-leading tools, including its award-winning data visualization and reporting suite, combined with the expert guidance of our seasoned data and insights professionals, empower decision-makers to drive business impact based on truly deeper customer understandings. Founded in the Nordics, Forsta means "to understand" in Swedish. Visit Forsta.com for more information.

About CUSTOMER

Since 1982, CUSTOMER magazine (formerly Customer Interaction Solutions) has been the voice of the customer experience, call/contact center, CRM and teleservices industries. CUSTOMER has helped the industry germinate, grow, mature and prosper, and has served as the leading publication in helping these industries that have had such a positive impact on the world economy to continue to thrive. Through a combination of outstanding and cutting-edge original editorial, industry voices, in-depth lab reviews and the recognition of the innovative leaders in management and technology through our highly valued awards, CUSTOMER strives to continue to be the publication that holds the quality bar high for the industry. Please visit http://www.customer.tmcnet.com.

About TMC

Through education, industry news, live events and social influence, global buyers rely on TMC's content-driven marketplaces to make purchase decisions and navigate markets. As a result, leading technology vendors turn to TMC for unparalleled branding, thought leadership and lead generation opportunities. Our in-person and online events deliver unmatched visibility and sales prospects for all percipients. Through our custom lead generation programs, we provide clients with an ongoing stream of leads that turn into sales opportunities and build databases. Additionally, we bolster brand reputations with the millions of impressions from display advertising on our news sites and newsletters. Making TMC a 360 degree marketing solution, we offer comprehensive event and road show management services and custom content creation with expertly ghost-crafted blogs, press releases, articles and marketing collateral to help with SEO, branding, and overall marketing efforts. For more information about TMC and to learn how we can help you reach your marketing goals, please visit www.tmcnet.com and follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, @tmcnet .

Forsta Media Contact:

Sara Beth Fahey

Matter Communications

[email protected]



TMC Contact:

Michelle Connolly

Marketing Manager

203-852-6800, ext. 170

[email protected]

SOURCE Forsta

Related Links

http://www.customer.tmcnet.com

http://www.tmcnet.com


DOWNERS GROVE, Ill., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Fresh Thyme Market, a full-service specialty retailer with 70 stores in 10 states throughout the Midwest, will open a new concept store on Nov. 10 at City Foundry in St. Louis, Missouri. The Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STL store, at 3701 Foundry Way, provides the community with real food at real affordable prices.

"We're thrilled to finally announce when we'll be opening our doors and welcoming the St. Louis community to our beautiful new flagship store," Store Director Jane Wilcox said. "Our team provides shoppers with an unparalleled grocery experience from the moment they walk in all the way through check out. We're excited to make a positive impact in the community and look forward to showing shoppers what the Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STL store is all about."

The historic City Foundry of St. Louis was built with the intention to serve the community by providing local residents with accessible and affordable resources. Aligning seamlessly with Fresh Thyme's mission to support their local communities, the 27,000-square-foot flagship store will feature a vast assortment of fresh, local, natural, and organic food, as well as national brand products at real affordable prices. Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STL is committed to offering more than 1,000 local, artisan items, including Bridge Bread, Prioritized Pastries, Field to Fire, Patty's Cheesecake and Demiblue Natural Nails.

Through easy-to-navigate shelves and reliably sourced products, Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STL strives to present a more thoughtful approach for all St. Louis shoppers to live healthier lives. Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STL, has partnered with local artist Grace McCammond to paint a mural of fresh colorful produce on the outside of the building facing Forest Park. The flagship store, features a full-service cafe, offering breakfast bites, power lunches and coffee concoctions, products from local, black women-owned businesses and a self-checkout model, allowing customers the ease of shopping at their own speed.

To further support and engage within the community, Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry STL is partnering with the St. Louis Food Bank School Market Program. This partnership provides access and choice of real food to students and families to live better and healthier lives. This commitment within the community positively impacts over 1,000 families to further deepen the store's roots in the community they serve.

Fresh Thyme Market at City Foundry's commitment to local also includes its team. Wilcox, who is a St. Louis native , is hiring more than 70 full- and part-time employees to help operate the store that will be open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. The store will offer free parking for shoppers.

About Fresh Thyme Market

Fresh Thyme Market, a full-service specialty retailer with 70 stores in 10 states throughout the Midwest, was born from a genuine desire to help people get real and live better and healthier lives. As people make the shift towards a safer, more intentional, sustainable lifestyle, we cut through the conflicting, unreliable, and constantly changing information to provide real healthy solutions for real people. We bring people real fresh, natural and organic food at real affordable prices to become a trusted resource in the community. With an immersive, intuitive shopping experience, Fresh Thyme Market meets people wherever they are on their journey and provide them with what they need to make living better a better sourced, better tasting reality. Learn more at freshthyme.com . Keep in touch by liking us at facebook.com/freshthymemarket , and following us at twitter.com/freshthymefm and https://www.instagram.com/freshthyme/

Media Contact:

Megan Snodsmith

[email protected]

815-954-6781

SOURCE Fresh Thyme Market

Related Links

http://www.freshthyme.com


DNA sequencing has become the foundation for biological advancements by enabling the exploration of genetic variants and structural changes in DNA. Historically, technologies for genetic testing fall into two categories: low-throughput and costly options such as whole genome sequencing, and high-throughput but limited technologies like genotyping arrays.

Gencove solves the too much or too little quandary by combining low-pass whole genome sequencing (reading the DNA fewer times) with a proprietary software-as-a-service (SAAS) computation layer. The result is a unique high-throughput and cost-effective whole genome sequencing solution.

"We believe the next revolution in genomics will be driven by software," said Joseph Pickrell, Ph.D., co-founder, and CEO of Gencove. "It's rewarding to work with investors who recognize the value our platform provides to the agricultural, biotechnology, clinical testing, and pharmaceutical industries."

In addition to Gencove's low-pass whole genome sequencing and SAAS platform, the company has developed large cross-species genomic datasets and reference panels. For its customers, these data equate to greater accuracy, more meaning, and increased research flexibility, today and in the future.

"Gencove's platform and datasets can help unlock the genetic underpinnings of our health and wellbeing," said Larry Page, Ph.D., managing director at Lewis and Clark AgriFood. "We are thrilled to be part of a company whose technology has such broad consumer and industrial applications from agrigenomics, biotechnology, virology to medical diagnoses, disease susceptibility, and response to medical treatment."

"The new round of funding will enable us to systematically address the significant demand for industrial-scale genomics we're seeing in the market," said Tomaz Berisa, Ph.D., Gencove's co-founder, and CTO. "We look forward to bringing our novel genomics platform to more customers as quickly as possible to support their important work."

About Gencove

Gencove is democratizing genome sequencing by making genomic information more accessible and interpretable through the development of molecular and computational tools. Gencove's low-pass sequencing platform is setting a new standard for high-throughput, cost-effective genomics research across species. The company operates a laboratory in New York and offers both low-pass sequencing and analytics software as a service. Together with academic, agriculture, biotechnology, and pharmaceutical companies, Gencove is dedicated to solving the world's most pressing challenges. More information is available at www.gencove.com .

About Lewis & Clark AgriFood

Lewis & Clark AgriFood is a St. Louis-based group of experienced investment professionals who are passionate about investing in growth-stage companies that are at the forefront of food and agriculture innovation. We look for companies that deliver benefits to the stakeholders in the food and agriculture sector, from the producer, through the supply chain, all the way to the consumer. As founders, operators, investors, and scientists, our seasoned investment team brings a breadth of quality sector experience to every investment. For more information, visit www.lewisandclarkagrifood.com or connect with us on LinkedIn or Twitter .

Contacts

For Gencove:

Kristi Ashton, 650.224.8231

[email protected]

For Lewis & Clark AgriFood:

Jessie Chapel, 314-651-4915

[email protected]

SOURCE Gencove

Related Links

https://www.gencove.com


BERLIN, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Slowly but surely, live trade fairs are returning to Germany after coronavirus pandemic restrictions forced nearly the entire sector online. To bolster the recovery by helping organizers manage risks, Germany's national and regional governments have instituted an insurance program that would compensate for cancellations.

As of today, trade fairs can apply for up to EUR 600 million in cover. German Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy Peter Altmaier says, "Particularly right now, the cancellation insurance is an important instrument in strengthening the trade fair sector."

Germany has traditionally been one of the world's leading destinations for trade fairs, attracting some 10 million visitors to major annual events that include the IAA, the Hanover Trade Fair and the Medica. 75 percent of fairs scheduled to take place from March 2020 to the end of last year had to be cancelled, at a cost of EUR 42 billion.

At present, live fairs are permitted in all 16 of Germany's regional states, with more than 110 events planned for the end of the year in accordance with strict hygiene procedures.

"We are delighted that the sector has reopened for business after an incredibly challenging year," says Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI) Head of Investor Consulting, Achim Hartig. "Expos and trade fairs play a significant role in the national economy  generating around EUR 14.5 billion in exhibitor and visitor revenue annually. All told, the overall effect on economic production is equivalent to EUR 28 billion. The resumption of activities  in accordance with strict hygiene concepts  is to be welcomed."

To further stimulate the sector, the German government has also allocated up to EUR 20 million in subsidies to help small and medium-sized businesses attend trade fairs.

More information: https://www.gtai.de/gtai-en/invest/business-location-germany/germany-s-trade-fair-and-exhibition-sector-reopens-for-business-725378.

Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI) is the economic promotion agency of the Federal Republic of Germany. GTAI supports German companies setting up in foreign markets, promotes Germany as a business location and assists foreign companies setting up shop in Germany.

Contact:

Jefferson Chase

Senior Manager, Communications

Germany Trade & Invest

Friedrichstrae 60

10117 Berlin

+49 30200099170

[email protected]

SOURCE Germany Trade & Invest

Related Links

https://www.gtai.com


SAO PAULO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A. (NYSE: GOL and B3: GOLL4), ("GOL" or "Company"), Brazil's largest airline, announces that it has completed the previously informed refinancing of its short-term bank debt in the amount of R$1.2 billion, via the extension of the 7th Series of Debentures and issuance of the 8th Series of Simple Non-Convertible Debentures ("Debentures") by GLA Linhas Aereas S.A. ("GLA"), an operating unit of the Company. The transaction was led by a syndicate of banks comprised of UBS BB S.A., Bradesco BBI S.A. and Santander S.A. ("Banks") in accordance with CVM Instruction 476.

"Completing the refinancing of R$1.2 billion of short-term debt, and the subsequent conclusion of our liability management program, could not have come at a better time," stated Richard Lark, CFO. "Our balance sheet is now in a stronger position in terms of its outstanding debts, versus our peers, which we view to be a competitive advantage in the current market environment."

As noted by the Company on the announcement of the terms and conditions for the refinancing in September 2021, the issuance of these Debentures concludes GOL's liability management program and returns the Company to its lowest level of short-term bank debt since 2014, with approximately R$0.5 billion. The value extraction from GOL's assets contributed to a reduction of R$3.3 billion of its short-term financial debt in the 19-month period ended in September 2021. The Company's lease liability remained at approximately 46% of total indebtedness during the same period, with a stable IFRS16 discount rate.

The proceeds from the Debentures will be used in full to refinance the Company's short-term debt and extend the average tenor of its liabilities to 3.3 years, an increase of more than two years. This includes R$0.6 billion remaining balance of the 7th issue of debentures, and approximately R$0.6 billion of export financing lines (Finimps) and working capital credit lines. The transaction will also improve GOL's credit metrics, by better matching future assets and liabilities and reducing the Company's average cost of debt. The next material maturity date for GOL's outstanding debts is not until July/2024.

The Debentures will be remunerated at a rate of CDI+4.5% (an over 20% reduction in spread over CDI) and will mature within three years after issuance. Payments of principal and interest will be monthly, after a grace period of 12 months for principal and six months for interest. The Debentures are redeemable, in whole or in part, at any time after issuance. They are guaranteed by GOL and have a fiduciary guarantee from GLA in the form ofa statutory lien on certain credit card receivables, while preserving the rights to factor the receivables from these guarantees.

GOL's disciplined financial management throughout the pandemic strengthened its balance sheet and reduced short-term indebtedness, preserving liquidity to maintain operations. The Company also concluded several other important initiatives to rebalance its capital structure, such as the amortization of its US$300 million Term Loan B; the issuance of US$650 million of Senior Secured Notes due 2026; a R$423 million equity capital increase led by its controlling shareholder; and the R$1.3 billion acquisition of the minority interest in its Smiles loyalty program.

The table below shows the sources and uses in GOL's liability management since January 2020.

Sources of Funds R$bn Debt Amortizations R$bn Senior Secured Notes due 2026 3.2 Term Loan B 1.6 Debentures 1.2 Guaranteed Financing 1.3 Smiles Cash 0.7 Import Financing 1.2 Restricted Cash 0.6 Capex Financing 0.8 Aircraft Sales 0.5 Working Capital Financing 0.8 Deposits 0.3 Debentures 0.6 Other Sources 0.2 Senior Notes due 2022 0.4 TOTAL 6.7 TOTAL 6.7

GOL is grateful for the continuous support of the Banks coordinating this transaction, which demonstrated their confidence in GOL throughout the pandemic.

Investor Relations

[email protected]

www.voegol.com.br/ir

+55(11) 2128-4700

Media Relations

Becky Nye, Montieth & Company

[email protected]

About GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A.

GOL is Brazil's largest airline, leader in the corporate and leisure segments. Since its founding in 2001, it has been the airline with the lowest unit cost in Latin America, which has enabled the democratization of air transportation. The Company has alliances with American Airlines and Air France-KLM, in addition to making available to Customers many codeshare and interline agreements, bringing more convenience and ease of connections to any place served by these partnerships. With the purpose of "Being First for Everyone", GOL offers the best travel experience to its passengers, including: the largest inventory of seats and the most legroom; the most complete platform with internet, movies and live TV; and the best loyalty program, SMILES. In cargo transportation, GOLLOG delivers parcels to various regions in Brazil and abroad. The Company has a team of 15,000 highly qualified airline professionals focused on Safety, GOL's number one value, and operates a standardized fleet of 127 Boeing 737 aircraft. GOL's shares are traded on the NYSE (GOL) and the B3 (GOLL4). For further information, visit www.voegol.com.br/ir.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this press release has not been subject to any independent audit or review and contains "forward-looking" statements, estimates and projections that relate to future events, which are, by their nature, subject to significant risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release including, without limitation, those regarding GOL's future financial position and results of operations, strategy, plans, objectives, goals and targets, future developments in the markets in which GOL operates or is seeking to operate, and any statements preceded by, followed by or that include the words "believe", "expect", "aim", "intend", "will", "may", "project", "estimate", "anticipate", "predict", "seek", "should" or similar words or expressions, are forward-looking statements. The future events referred to in these forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other factors, many of which are beyond GOL's control, that may cause actual results, performance or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions regarding GOL's present and future business strategies and the environment in which GOL will operate in the future and are not a guarantee of future performance. Such forward-looking statements speak only as at the date on which they are made. None of GOL or any of its affiliates, officers, directors, employees and agents undertakes any duty or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by law. None of GOL or any of its affiliates, officers, directors, employees, professional advisors and agents make any representation, warranty or prediction that the results anticipated by such forward-looking statements will be achieved, and such forward-looking statements represent, in each case, only one of many possible scenarios and should not be viewed as the most likely or standard scenario. Although GOL believes that the estimates and projections in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they may prove materially incorrect and actual results may materially differ. As a result, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements.

SOURCE GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes S.A.
TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Golden Star Resources Ltd. (NYSE American: GSS) (TSX: GSC) (GSE: GSR) ("Golden Star" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that Ben Pullinger will join as Executive Vice President, Head of Discovery on November 1, 2021.

Ben holds over 15 years of experience in the gold sector, working across Africa, the Americas and Asia. He has been directly associated with a number of high-quality discoveries and has contributed to their advancement throughout his career. He joins the Company from the role of Senior Vice President, Geology & Corporate Development at Excellon Resources. Prior to that, he held the position of Vice President, Exploration at Roxgold.

Andrew Wray, Chief Executive Officer of Golden Star, commented:

"I am delighted to welcome Ben to the senior team at Golden Star. Ben's experience in managing exploration projects from an early stage through to production will see him play a key role in unlocking the value opportunity offered by the continued expansion of the Wassa ore body, both in the current mine and the wider regional targets where we are exploring for standalone orebodies. Ben is also well placed to assist in the advancement of our growth strategy as we look to expand the business outside of Wassa.

Ben will work through a transition period with Mitch Wasel, Vice President Exploration, who will be retiring later this year after nearly 29 years' service with the Company. I would like to thank Mitch for the role he has played, particularly as regards the discovery and delineation of the Wassa underground orebody which now totals three million ounces of measured and indicated resources and 7.7 million ounces of inferred resource, and wish him all the best in his retirement."

Company Profile:

Golden Star is an established gold mining company that owns and operates the Wassa underground mine in the Western Region of Ghana, West Africa. Listed on the NYSE American, the Toronto Stock Exchange and the Ghanaian Stock Exchange, Golden Star is focused on delivering strong margins and free cash flow from the Wassa mine. As the winner of the Prospectors & Developers Association of Canada 2018 Environmental and Social Responsibility Award, Golden Star remains committed to leaving a positive and sustainable legacy in its areas of operation.

Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Information

Some statements contained in this news release are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws and include but are not limited to, statements and information regarding: the Company's ability to unlock the value opportunity offered by the continued expansion of the Wassa ore body in the current mine and the wider regional targets; and the Company's ability to advance its growth strategy and expand the business outside of Wassa. Generally, forward-looking information and statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes" or variations of such words and phrases (including negative or grammatical variations) or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved" or the negative connotation thereof. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking statements and information are inherently uncertain and involve risks, assumptions and uncertainties that could cause facts to differ materially. Such statements and information are based on numerous assumptions regarding present and future business strategies and the environment in which Golden Star will operate in the future, including the price of gold, anticipated costs and ability to achieve goals. Forward-looking information and statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Golden Star to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information and statements, including but not limited to: gold price volatility; discrepancies between actual and estimated production; mineral reserves and resources and metallurgical recoveries; mining operational and development risks; liquidity risks; suppliers suspending or denying delivery of products or services; regulatory restrictions (including environmental regulatory restrictions and liability); actions by governmental authorities; the speculative nature of gold exploration; ore type; the global economic climate; share price volatility; foreign exchange rate fluctuations; risks related to streaming agreements and joint venture operations; the availability of capital on reasonable terms or at all; risks related to international operations, including economic and political instability in foreign jurisdictions in which Golden Star operates; risks related to current global financial conditions including financial and other risks resulting from the impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic; actual results of current exploration activities; environmental risks; future prices of gold; possible variations in mineral reserves and mineral resources, grade or recovery rates; mine development and operating risks; an inability to obtain power for operations on favorable terms or at all; mining plant or equipment breakdowns or failures; an inability to obtain products or services for operations or mine development from vendors and suppliers on reasonable terms, including pricing, or at all; public health pandemics such as COVID-19, including risks associated with reliance on suppliers, the cost, scheduling and timing of gold shipments, uncertainties relating to its ultimate spread, severity and duration, and related adverse effects on the global economy and financial markets; accidents, labor disputes and other risks of the mining industry; delays in obtaining governmental approvals or financing or in the completion of development or construction activities; litigation risks; the quantum and timing of receipt of NSR payments and/or the Sulphides Contingent Payments from the sale by the Company of its interest in Bogoso-Prestea; and risks related to indebtedness and the service of such indebtedness. Although Golden Star has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information and statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that future developments affecting the Company will be those anticipated by management. Please refer to the discussion of these and other factors in Management's Discussion and Analysis of financial conditions and results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2020 and in our annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2020 as filed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. The forecasts contained in this press release constitute management's current estimates, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered thereby. We expect that these estimates will change as new information is received. While we may elect to update these estimates at any time, we do not undertake any estimate at any particular time or in response to any particular event.

SOURCE Golden Star Resources Ltd.

Related Links

www.gsr.com


"The combination of a global pandemic along with the political and social atmosphere of the last two years not only left a dramatic imprint on global society but has dramatically and permanently changed the way people around the world consume media and content," says James Wright, global CEO of Red Havas and global chairman of the Havas PR Global Collective. "We are now living in an era where consumption is more global, more diversified, more simultaneous and at higher volumes than ever before across platforms. In response to this, brand demand for seamless and integrated communications across multiple platforms and regions continues to grow at an exponential rate. This expansion better positions us to bring the future of PR and communications to our clients anywhere and everywhere."

Since its launch in 2019 and subsequent Red Havas Health launch in 2021, Red Havas has proven its Merged Media philosophy, growing at an exponential rate and continuing the mobilization of the PR offering across the Havas Group. Key client wins over the past year include Jaguar Land Rover, Adidas, ManpowerGroup, Novartis, United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR), Skillsoft, Sportline, AU10TIX, Likewize, Far East Hospitality, Changi Airport Group, Beiersdorf (Elastoplast and Nivea) and Janison.

Red Havas will also enjoy the benefit of the backing of the world's largest health network, Havas Health & You, under CEO Donna Murphy, and the global footprint and expertise of Havas Creative Group under its Global CEO Chris Hirst. The consolidation of these assets will allow the network to operate in a unified way across its seven disciplines around the world: health and wellness, corporate PR and reputation management, technology and e-commerce, consumer & lifestyle, automotive & mobility, travel & hospitality, and internal communications.

Red Havas' business model, with its unique Merged Media approach, is set up perfectly to help brands of today and tomorrow form their Merged Media point of view and enter the marketplace in a way that's globally relevant, reflects current patterns, and harmonizes seamlessly across platforms and regions with finesse. The agency plans on further expansion throughout 2021-2022 and will partner with the other Havas Group specialized PR assets where needed to address client needs.

About Red Havas

Red Havas is part of the Havas PR Global Collective, the PR and communications arm of the Havas Group that comprises approximately 40 agencies around the world and more than 1,300 employees. Red Havas' strategic "Merged Media" model brings together traditional and digital publishing, content, social media and data within a single infrastructure. For further information, please visit: www.redhavas.com.

About Havas Group

Havas is one of the world's largest global communications groups. Founded in 1835 in Paris, the Group employs 20,000 people in more than 100 countries. Havas Group is committed to being the world's best company at creating meaningful connections between people and brands through creativity, media and innovation. Based on a client-centric model across media and creative, Havas Group is the most integrated company in its sector. We operate with three business units (creative, media and health & wellness) within our Havas Villages all over the world where teams share the same premises, ensuring agility and a seamless experience for clients. #makingbrandsmeaningful. Further information about Havas Group is available on the company's website: havasgroup.com.

SOURCE Havas Group; Havas Health & You

Related Links

www.havashealthandyou.com


CHESANING, Mich., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- High Life Farms ("HLF"), a privately held, multi-state, vertically integrated cannabis company with operations in Michigan and California, today announced that its best-selling line of Nuggies chocolate-covered pretzel edibles is now available in California. The product expansion marks a major milestone for HLF, which is bringing its fan-favorite, high-quality in-house edible products to California for the first time.

"We've highly anticipated the expansion of our Nuggies line of chocolate edibles to California since our original launch in Michigan, and we've worked diligently to find the best suppliers to ensure we are producing the same high-quality products that meet our standards," said Vinnie Celani, Co-founder of High Life Farms. "Nuggies have experienced huge success in Michigan and are one of our best-selling products. We're thrilled to roll out our unique line of infused pretzel bites to consumers in the country's biggest cannabis market and hope they enjoy them as much as our customers in Michigan."

Nuggies have been one of the top-selling cannabis-infused chocolate products in Michigan since its initial launch in April 2021, according to LeafLink. Nuggies are be available across dispensaries in California including Barbary Sunset, IVTHC, Bare and others, as well as for delivery in three flavors:

Chocolate Peanut Butter: The original Nuggies flavor; creamy chocolate and peanut butter coat crunchy pretzel balls that are lightly dusted with salt for the perfect combination of salty and sweet.

The original Nuggies flavor; creamy chocolate and peanut butter coat crunchy pretzel balls that are lightly dusted with salt for the perfect combination of salty and sweet. Strawberries and Cream: Milk and white chocolate coating infused with strawberry flavoring surrounding a crunchy pretzel core for a familiar and beloved flavor combination.

Milk and white chocolate coating infused with strawberry flavoring surrounding a crunchy pretzel core for a familiar and beloved flavor combination. Peanut Butter and Banana: Creamy chocolate and peanut butter infused with banana flavoring coating crunchy pretzel balls, lightly dusted with salt for a nostalgic, salty-sweet flavor blast.

Edibles products are gaining popularity across U.S. cannabis markets, expecting to total more than $2 billion in sales this year, and will reach nearly $3 billion in 2022 according to Seattle-based data analytics company Headset. Sales are expected to continue to rise as new-to-cannabis consumers enter the market. HLF's expansion of Nuggies into California will help meet rising consumer demand for cannabis-infused edibles products.

For more information, visit https://highlifefarms.com/.



About High Life Farms

High Life Farms is a national privately held, vertically integrated cannabis company based in Michigan with operations in the world's largest cannabis market: California. High Life Farms' best-in-class portfolio includes cultivation, manufacturing, distribution, in-house brands, brand partnerships, white labeling solutions and ownership stakes in numerous dispensaries. The company believes in the cannabis plant's potential to improve health, wellness, happiness and that everyone should have the right to make choices that improve their personal wellbeing. For more information, visit https://highlifefarms.com/.



Media Contact:

Juliet Fairbrother

MATTIO Communications

[email protected]

631.338.5343

SOURCE High Life Farms

Related Links

http://highlifefarms.com/


SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global in-vitro toxicology assays market size for cannabis and nicotine testing is expected to reach USD 2.9 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2021 to 2028. Growing adoption of high throughput techniques in cannabis testing, legalization of medical cannabis, and growing awareness regarding the potential hazards of nicotine consumption have majorly driven the market throughout the forecast period.

Key Insights & Findings:

Nicotine testing accounted for the largest revenue in 2020 and is expected to continue the trend in the forecast period owing to increasing safety concerns associated with nicotine products

Cannabis testing is expected to witness gradual growth through 2021-2028 owing to the rising acceptance of cannabis for medical use

3D cell culture technology is expected to grow at substantial CAGR owing to the increasing popularity of drug development and toxicity testing

Cytotoxicity testing designing accounted for the highest market revenue in 2020 owing to advancements in different tools for evaluating the cytotoxic effects of nicotine-containing products

North America has emerged as the highest revenue-generating region in 2020, owing to the prevalence of cancer, presence of key players, and developed healthcare infrastructure

Asia Pacific is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR throughout the forecast period. It is anticipated that China and India are contributing majorly to the regional market's growth

Key players are undertaking various strategic initiatives such as mergers and acquisitions to maintain their presence in the market

In August 2020 , Eurofins Scientific purchased approximately 136 smaller labs within 3 years from 2014 to 2019, accounting for a total expenditure of USD 3.4 billion in these acquisitions.

Read 117 page market research report, "In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Test Type, By Technology, By Application (Cytotoxicity Testing, Genetic Toxicity Testing), By Method, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021 - 2028", by Grand View Research

The legalization of medical cannabis is underway globally, including in countries such as Germany, Australia, and Israel. The market is gaining momentum in the Asia Pacific region, with Thailand having fully legalized medicinal cannabis. Thus, increasing legalization of medical cannabis is expected to drive the market growth to a major extend. In addition, technological advancements in cellular assays have boosted the market growth.

COVID-19 has become a catalyst for changing the traditional use of cannabis. Owing to the pandemic, the leading scientific community and market competitors are now focusing on deciphering the potential of cannabis to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Companies have reported the increase in the sale of cannabis as some states/countries have declared cannabis as an essential medicine during the pandemic.

Grand View Research has segmented the global in-vitro toxicology assays market for cannabis and nicotine testing on the basis of test type, technology, application, method, and region:

In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

Cannabis Testing



Nicotine Testing

In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

3D Cell Culture Technology



Mass Spectrometry



Flow Cytometry



Others

In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

Genetic Toxicity Testing



Carcinogenicity Testing



Cytotoxicity Testing



Mutagenicity Testing



Others

In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Method Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

Cellular Assay



Live Cells





High Throughput / High Content Screening







Molecular Imaging







Others





Fixed Cells



Others

In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2017 - 2028)

North America



U.S.





Canada



Europe



Germany





U.K.





France





Spain





Italy



Asia Pacific



Japan





China





India





Australia





Singapore



Latin America



Brazil





Mexico





Argentina



Middle East & Africa

&

South Africa





Saudi Arabia

List of Key Players of In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing

Stemina Biomarker Discovery, Inc.

Broughton Nicotine Services

Labstat International, Inc.

IONTOX

TOXIKON

Integrated Laboratory Systems

Enthalpy Analytical

PBR Laboratories, Inc.

Browse through Grand View Research's coverage of the Global Biotechnology Industry:

Drug Of Abuse Testing Services Market  The global drug of abuse testing services market size was valued at USD 2.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2021 to 2028. An increase in the consumption of alcohol and illicit drugs has led to the high growth of the market.

The global drug of abuse testing services market size was valued at in 2020 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2021 to 2028. An increase in the consumption of alcohol and illicit drugs has led to the high growth of the market. Drug Testing Market  The global drug testing market size was valued at USD 8.1 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2021 to 2028. The COVID-19 pandemic have adversely affected the mental health of people and have led to higher rates of substance abuse.

The global drug testing market size was valued at in 2020 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 4.9% from 2021 to 2028. The COVID-19 pandemic have adversely affected the mental health of people and have led to higher rates of substance abuse. Legal Cannabis Market  The global legal cannabis market size was valued at USD 12.8 billion in 2020 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 26.3% from 2021 to 2028. Rising legalization and increasing awareness regarding the health benefits of cannabis consumption are the key factors.

Gain access to Grand View Compass, our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports

About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

Contact:

Sherry James

Corporate Sales Specialist, USA

Grand View Research, Inc.

Phone: 1-415-349-0058

Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com

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SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc.
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Incline P&C Group , the premier insurance program market services firm, today announced a new partnership with Strategic Insurance Underwriters , the Transportation Division of U.S. Risk Insurance Group , a specialty lines underwriting manager and wholesale broker. The U.S. Risk Underwriter's division manages the underwriting and placement of specialty insurance programs for several niche markets including transportation, which is led by Strategic.

Strategic provides competitive insurance products and services to meet the needs of American truckers and the transportation industry. This partnership with Incline P&C will extend Strategic's services across 15 states, offering expertise, products, and risk management to assist agents in securing coverage for policyholders and mitigating risk via primary liability programs, cargo liability programs, physical damage programs, non-trucking liability programs and more.

Strategic Insurance Underwriters brings a 38-year history of offering tailored insurance products to the trucking and transportation industries, while delivering strong customer service through a partnership approach. It was acquired by U.S. Risk in 2017, giving Strategic the ability to scale and enhance its services.

"Strategic understands the challenges and the increasingly complex insurance market landscape that policyholders in this vertical have to navigate," said Chris McClellan, President and CEO, Incline P&C Group. "Our partnership with Strategic will help to extend the depth and breadth of transportation insurance offerings available to American truckers."

"We are delighted to partner with Incline P&C Group and extend our transportation insurance expertise with their insurance program market services firm," said Gerry Den Boggende, Executive Vice President, U.S. Risk LLC. "Our transportation division brings years of experience across the vertical and a clear understanding of the unique vulnerabilities facing today's commercial drivers including extensive auto, technology, and supply chain liabilities. As a result of our deep knowledge and understanding, our team offers industry-superior programs through top-rated insurers available to fit the risk profile of a wide range of firms."

About Incline P&C Group

Bringing over 75 years of combined industry experience, Incline P&C Group is the premier insurance program market services firm. Privately owned and operated with an exclusive focus on the program insurance market, the executive team's experience and expertise combined with effective underwriting discipline and risk management provides each client with various platforms and associated services to meet almost any need in the industry. Partnering with a team that has a wealth of experience and the financial strength is critical when choosing the right program carrier. Incline brings those qualifications and more. Key services include active program management, disciplined underwriting process, risk management, reinsurance expertise and economic alignment. Founded in 2015, Incline has a team of over 40 employees; headquartered in Austin, TX with offices in Dallas, TX, Fort Worth, TX and Greenwich, CT. To learn more about Incline P&C Group, visit: https://inclinepc.com/

SOURCE Incline P&C Group
CHICAGO and ROYAL OAK, Mich., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Jon D. Kreucher has been elected president and chief executive officer of Howard & Howard, a leading business law firm founded in Michigan. The announcement was made by the current President and CEO, Mark A. Davis, who will soon step down after leading the firm for the past 17 years.

Howard & Howard maintains a significant presence in Illinois with offices in Chicago and Peoria.

Kreucher has practiced law for 30 years, holding positions at Fortune 100 companies and private law firms. An attorney with Howard & Howard for 18 years, he has worked across the firm's Business & Corporate; Business Litigation; Energy, Infrastructure & Utilities; and Labor, Employment & Immigration Practice Groups.

"I'm honored and excited to be selected by my colleagues to lead our law firm as it begins its 153rd year in business," said Kreucher. "On behalf of our entire team, I'd like to thank Mark Davis for his years of thoughtful leadership. I look forward to continuing Howard & Howard's long-standing commitment to providing exceptional legal services to our clients and offering a collegial and rewarding culture for our attorneys and employees."

According to Kreucher, his initial focus will include:

Maintaining the effort to run the firm like a business, which allows attorneys to focus on clients and to be among the most highly compensated in the markets Howard & Howard serves.

Emphasizing and enabling more utilization of technology to reduce time and improve cost efficiencies in legal research, e-discovery, document automation, asset management and compliance.

Improving the diversity of the firm's teams and fostering an environment which embraces a range of perspectives on work-life balance.

"The legal industry will experience more disruption in the next 10 years than in the previous 100. One important catalyst was the dramatic change ushered in by the pandemic," said Kreucher. "We're at an inflection point which will bring fundamental change to the way we deliver legal services to our clients. One of the most important functions of my role will be to make sure the firm evolves so our clients can continue to receive high quality and timely legal services at a reasonable cost."

"Jon is an accomplished attorney and leader who has made exceptional contributions to the firm and always delivered top-notch counsel to our clients. We're confident that Howard & Howard will continue to thrive and succeed under his vision and leadership," said Davis.

Kreucher has been selected to The Best Lawyers in America (2017-2021) and named to dBusiness magazine's "Top Lawyers" (2013-2014, 2019-2020). He is a summa cum laude graduate of Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School and he completed his undergraduate work at the University of Michigan.

Kreucher's term will commence on January 1, 2022.

About Howard & Howard

With a history spanning over 15 decades, Howard & Howard is a full-service law firm with a national and international practice, providing legal services to businesses and business owners. More than 140 attorneys practice out of offices in Royal Oak, Michigan; Illinois (Chicago and Peoria); Las Vegas, Nevada; and Beverly Hills, California. For more information, please visit howardandhoward.com.

SOURCE Howard & Howard
CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Keeper Security, the leading provider of zero-knowledge security and encryption software covering password management, dark web monitoring, digital file storage and messaging, announced today the appointment of Tristen Yancey, the company's new Vice President of Public Sector.

Ms.Yancey will be responsible for the sales and business development of the company's federal, state, local and higher education business. With over 25 years of public sector experience, Yancey has a strong track record of providing technology expertise to government agencies and educational institutions.

"We are thrilled to have Tristen join our team at Keeper Security," said Darren Guccione, CEO and Co-Founder of Keeper Security. "Her expertise, enthusiasm and dedication to Keeper's innovation in the public sector, combined with her deep experience in the industry is an asset for the company's leadership and growth among government agencies and educational institutions."

Prior to joining Keeper, Yancey was the Regional Vice President of Public Sector at Flexera through the acquisition of BDNA where she was the Director of Civilian Agencies for nine years. At Flexera, she was responsible for the sales, marketing and business development of the company's public sector business.

"I am excited to bring my skills and expertise to Keeper Security to support the company's hypergrowth within the public sector," said Tristen Yancey, VP Public Sector at Keeper Security. "With today's spotlight on zero-trust cybersecurity, Keeper is leading the charge to provide the highest degree of cybersecurity defense and protection to government entities, and I am honored to be able to advance its solutions."

For more information on Keeper Security and its offerings, please visit https://keepersecurity.com

About Keeper Security, Inc.

Keeper Security, Inc. ("Keeper") is transforming the way organizations and individuals protect their passwords and sensitive digital assets to significantly reduce cybertheft and data breaches. Keeper is the leading provider of zero-knowledge security and encryption software covering enterprise password management, role-based access control, event tracking, dark web monitoring, secure file storage, secrets management and encrypted messaging. Named PC Magazine's Best Password Manager (2019, 2020, 2021) & Editors' Choice (2019, 2020, 2021), U.S. News & World Report's Best Overall Password Manager (2021), and the Publisher's Choice Cybersecurity Password Management InfoSec Award (2020), Keeper is trusted by millions of people and thousands of businesses to protect their digital assets and help mitigate the risk of a data breach. Keeper is SOC-2, FIPS 140-2 and ISO 27001 Certified. Keeper protects businesses of all sizes across every major industry sector

CONTACT: [email protected]

SOURCE Keeper Security, Inc.

Related Links

keepersecurity.com


VALLETTA, Malta, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On 30 September, Kindred Group communicated to temporarily cease services for Dutch residents due to policy changes in the Netherlands. Kindred has today taken the decision to keep its services closed to Dutch residents until a licence is awarded by the Dutch regulator (KSA).

Kindred Group plc (Kindred) has today taken the decision that its services will remain closed to Dutch residents until a licence is awarded to service the Dutch market under the Dutch Remote Gambling Act. Kindred is prepared to submit a license application later in Q4 2021. Subject to the license review process, Kindred looks forward to be awarded an NL license in Q2 2022.

This is in line with the communication on 30 September that Kindred would cease services for Dutch residents on a temporary basis due to recent policy changes communicated by the Dutch Minister for Legal Protection on 20 September.

Kindred is prepared for the Dutch licensing process under the Remote Gambling Act, and has been working on the preparations for a Dutch licence application including successful completion of the required external audit.

This disclosure contains information that Kindred Group is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation (EU nr 596/2014) and the Swedish Securities Markets Act (2007:528). The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person, on 26-10-2021 19:00 CET.

CONTACT:

For more information:

Patrick Kortman, Head of Corporate Development & Investor Relations, [email protected], +46 723 877 438

Linda Lyth, Investor Relations Manager, +46 767 681 337

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/kindred-group/r/kindred-services-remain-closed-to-dutch-residents-until-licence-is-awarded,c3440909

The following files are available for download:

https://mb.cision.com/Main/824/3440909/1486681.pdf Kindred remains closed to Dutch residents

SOURCE Kindred Group
MANHATTAN BEACH, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kinecta Federal Credit Union has been honored by the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA) as a recipient of its 2021 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Residential Leadership Award under the category of Organizational DEI for companies with fewer than 1,000 employees. As part of MBA's multifaceted strategy to promote DEI, this award recognizes member company initiatives as well as an increase in diversity within a company's leadership and employee base.

"Kinecta's commitment to our employees, members, and the communities we serve includes fostering an environment that is diverse, inclusive, and equitable for all. Receiving this award is an honor as it affirms that our new initiatives, as well as existing leadership programs are aligned with this commitment," said Keith Sultemeier, Chief Executive Officer of Kinecta. "Kinecta is extremely proud of this accomplishment, and I would like to congratulate our Diversity Council members who volunteer their time to help further our commitment of diversity, equity, and inclusion."

Reviewed by two groups of judges consisting of members of MBA's DEI Committee and MBA staff, the award commends the hard work, dedication, and creativity of Kinecta's newly established, in-depth DEI program as well as Kinecta Emerging Leaders Program (KELP).

Made up of 15 staff and middle management employees including Kim Graham, VP Human Resources and Training & Development serving as Executive Sponsor, Kinecta's Diversity Council was formed in August 2020. Its vision is to recognize, advocate, and foster a culture of diversity, equity and inclusion across the organization that is equitable for employees and the communities served. Through its mission, Kinecta is committed to building an equitable work environment by supporting and celebrating its employees' unique abilities and differences while providing opportunities that encourage growth and development. KELP is a development program that introduces leadership concepts and offers mentorship and opportunities for continued growth to employees across the organization. The program was designed to allow for self-nomination to ensure employees have equal access and availability to these valuable leadership programs.

The 2021 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Residential Leadership Award recipients were announced during the MBA's 2021 Annual Convention & Expo, and Kinecta's award was received by DEI Council members, Michael Hoang and Johanna Laos.

For more information about Kinecta, visit www.kinecta.org

About Kinecta Federal Credit Union

Kinecta Federal Credit Union is the country's 35th largest credit union, with assets of $6.5 billion and over 270,000 member-owners. Our 800+ employees serve members from 32 branches, a variety of specialty offices, and highly responsive call centers on both coasts. Banking the Southern California area for more than 80 years, with recent expansion to Northern California, New York, and New Jersey, Kinecta offers its members a full range of financial products through the Credit Union and its subsidiaries, Kinecta Wealth Management and Kinecta Insurance Services. Daily Breeze readers have named Kinecta a top South Bay credit union for the past 10 years, and Kinecta was voted Easy Reader's 2020 "Best of the Beach" Credit Union.

SOURCE Kinecta Federal Credit Union

Related Links

www.kinecta.org


GAITHERSBURG, Md., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kisco Senior Living and joint venture partner Welltower (NYSE: WELL) are pleased to announce the groundbreaking of The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center, a unique concept for senior living in the heart of Gaithersburg. The seven-story complex will offer spacious 302 one- and two-bedroom floorplans for independent living, assisted living and memory care residences. Situated on 8.5 acres beside RIO Lakefront at Washingtonian Center, The Carnegie is set to welcome residents in the spring of 2024.

"The Carnegie will be one of our signature communities and we are proud to introduce the Kisco lifestyle to the city of Gaithersburg," said Andy Kohlberg, president and CEO of Kisco Senior Living. "Kisco follows the simple philosophy of putting our residents first. Early on, we adopted best-in-class standards from the hospitality industry to create a five-star experience for our residents. We're excited to bring this unique lifestyle experience founded on our principles that promote the health and wellbeing of residents."

For over 30 years, Kisco Senior Living has specialized in owning, developing and managing five-star, full-service, integrated senior living communities that provide exemplary service in safe, secure and friendly environments. With 20 communities across the country, Kisco is committed to a standard of excellence that raises the bar in senior living, including Forbes Travel Guide Star hospitality certification.

The Carnegie is named for the rich heritage of culture and philanthropy associated with Andrew Carnegie. He is responsible for the construction and donation of approximately 2,500 public libraries around the world. The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and Carnegie Institution of Science are in nearby Washington D.C. In addition, the renowned Carnegie Hall has set the international standard for musical excellence.

"One of Kisco's signature features is The Art of Living Well programming which addresses six dimensions of wellness. Providing intellectual and educational opportunities for residents personifies The Carnegie name," said Kohlberg. "We want to empower residents to pursue their passion and purpose, surrounded by culture, art, and education. It's all about providing a maintenance-free lifestyle and allowing them to enjoy their lives with peace of mind."

The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center will feature premium amenities including chef-prepared meals in a choice of multiple indoor and al fresco dining venues; an indoor heated, salt-water pool; state-of-the art fitness center; wellness spa; yoga studio; and access to health care on site. Additional lifestyle amenities include a lecture hall for ongoing local educational programming; computer learning center; curated art gallery; cooking demonstration kitchen; and an outdoor landscaped park with a trail leading to Malcolm King Park.

In partnership with Welltower, Kisco plans to open a Discovery Center at Downtown Crown in spring 2022 to showcase the selection of floorplans and elegant interior design of The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center. The floorplan options will range in size from one bedroom, one bath (837 square feet) to two bedrooms, two baths with a den (1,487 square feet) and a club level living option that includes concierge and valet services.

"This is one of the most exciting projects for us to work on with our valued partners at Kisco Senior Living," said Nikhil Chaudhri, senior vice president, co-head of US investments at Welltower. "The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center will be a premier community where seniors will have access to first class amenities and care in a truly dynamic and inspirational environment."

With construction underway, THW Design is the project's architect with StudioSIX5 serving as the interior design partner. Balfour Beatty is the project's general contractor. For a preview of The Carnegie at Washingtonian Center's design, visit THW Design's website.

ABOUT KISCO SENIOR LIVING

Kisco Senior Living, based in Carlsbad, California, operates 20 full service senior living communities in six states offering independent living, assisted living and in some locations, memory care and skilled nursing. For more than 30 years, Kisco Senior Living has specialized in developing and managing full-service senior living communities with a portfolio featuring a wide spectrum of individualized services and lifestyle options. Our unique approach and philosophy, called Kisco Confidence, is centered on giving residents and associates peace of mind knowing that our communities deliver on safety and security, trust and transparency, health and wellbeing and a 5-star lifestyle experience. For more information, please call (760) 804-5900 or go to kiscoseniorliving.com.

ABOUT WELLTOWER

Welltower Inc. (NYSE: WELL), an S&P 500 company headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, is driving the transformation of health care infrastructure. The company invests with leading seniors housing operators, post-acute providers and health systems to fund the real estate infrastructure needed to scale innovative care delivery models and improve people's wellness and overall health care experience. Welltower, a real estate investment trust ("REIT"), owns interests in properties concentrated in major, high-growth markets in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom, consisting of seniors housing and post-acute communities and outpatient medical properties. More information is available at www.welltower.com.

Forward-Looking Statements and Risk Factors

This press release may contain forward-looking statements. When Welltower uses words such as "may," "will," "intend," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "project," "estimate" or similar expressions that do not relate solely to historical matters, it is making forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties that may cause Welltower's actual results to differ materially from Welltower's expectations discussed in the forward-looking statements. This may be a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, those factors discussed in Welltower's reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Welltower undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements.

SOURCE Kisco Senior Living

Related Links

http://kiscoseniorliving.com


ATLANTA, Ga., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd. ("Liberty Defense" or the "Company") (TSXV: SCAN) (OTCQB: LDDFF) (FRANKFURT: LD2), a leading technology provider of concealed weapons and threat detection solutions, is pleased to announce that it has attracted two recognized industry leaders to its team: Ajay Subramanian and Jeffrey S. Gordon.

Subramanian and Gordon will be based in the Company's newly designed headquarters in Wilmington, MA, just north of Boston, and will be working on the Company's High Definition Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanner and airport shoe screener, both of which are licensed exclusively to Liberty Defense, funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and developed at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Both technologies have the potential to transform checkpoint screening at the airport to make it safer and more efficient.

"As airports and event venues begin to welcome back larger crowds, it will be imperative to ensure that these guests feel safe," said Bill Frain, CEO of Liberty Defense. "Easing people's apprehension that is driven by the pandemic and high levels of social unrest can be achieved with technologies that enable no-contact and high-throughput screening to reduce lines and wait times. Further, if guests can be confident that dangerous items are kept out of these places, we can significantly improve their experience."

Subramanian and Gordon will also serve as key members of the technology team that is responsible for driving the successful development and deployment of HEXWAVE, the Company's flagship product. HEXWAVE offers physically distant screening that rapidly scans individuals using low-power radar technology to create 3D images that are readable by artificial intelligence, which analyzes them to detect both metal and nonmetal weapons, as well as explosives, or other items of interest.

Jeffrey Gordon, who will serve as Liberty Defense's VP of Engineering, is an accomplished engineering professional with over 35 years' experience leading the development of ground breaking sensing products for the military, medical, industrial, and commercial markets, including the ubiquitous Personnel Body Scanner Systems (Provision) that were developed by L3-Harris (now Leidos) and can be seen deployed across most U.S. and EU airport checkpoints. Gordon also spent five years at General Electric Global Research developing roadmaps for imaging and sensor technologies. He holds a BS from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, an MS in Experimental Physics from UC Los Angeles, and a PhD from UC Berkeley. He has particular expertise in technology strategy for advanced Radio-Frequency RF and infrared (IR) sensing and AI / machine learning techniques.

Ajay Subramanian joins Liberty Defense's as its principal RF Design Engineer. For the last 12 years, Subramanian served as a senior-level engineer at Raytheon, a major U.S. defense contractor and with core manufacturing concentrations in weapons and military, as well as commercial electronics. Besides his focus on RF design, including MMIC's and mixed signal/RFIC designs, he served as the company's liaison with DARPA and authored several conference papers and patents in the area of Wideband High Frequency. Ajay holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Florida State University, an MS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Central Florida and is in the process of completing his PhD from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

"We are fortunate and excited that both Jeffrey and Ajay have decided to join the Liberty team. They are best-in-class talents who believe in our mission and want the opportunity to develop our cutting-edge HD-AIT and HEXWAVE people screening solutions," said Michael Lanzaro, President and CTO of Liberty Defense. We look forward to working with Jeff and Ajay to bring these new technologies to market."

For more information about Liberty and to subscribe to company updates, visit: https://libertydefense.com

On Behalf of Liberty Defense

Bill Frain

CEO & Director



About Liberty Defense

Liberty Defense (TSXV: SCAN, OTCQB: LDDFF, FRANKFURT: LD2) provides multi-technology security solutions for concealed weapons detection in high volume foot traffic areas and locations requiring enhanced security such as airports, stadiums, schools, and more. Liberty's HEXWAVE product, for which the company has secured an exclusive license from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as well as a technology transfer agreement for patents related to active 3D radar imaging technology, provides discrete, modular, and scalable protection to provide layered, stand-off detection capability of metallic and non-metallic weapons. Liberty has also recently licensed the millimeter wave-based, High Definition Advanced Imaging Technology (HD-AIT) body scanner and shoe scanner technologies as part of its technology portfolio. Liberty is committed to protecting communities and preserving peace of mind through superior security detection solutions. Learn more: LibertyDefense.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

When used in this press release, the words "estimate", "project", "belief", "anticipate", "intend", "expect", "plan", "predict", "may" or "should" and the negative of these words or such variations thereon or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements and information. Although Liberty believes, in light of the experience of their respective officers and directors, current conditions and expected future developments and other factors that have been considered appropriate, that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements and information in this press release are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them because the parties can give no assurance that such statements will prove to be correct. Such statements and information reflect the current view of Liberty. There are risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated in those forward-looking statements and information.

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. There are a number of important factors that could cause Liberty's actual results to differ materially from those indicated or implied by forward-looking statements and information. Such factors include, among others: currency fluctuations; limited business history of the parties; disruptions or changes in the credit or security markets; results of operation activities and development of projects; project cost overruns or unanticipated costs and expenses; and general development, market and industry conditions. The parties undertake no obligation to comment on analyses, expectations or statements made by third parties in respect of their securities or their respective financial or operating results (as applicable).

Liberty cautions that the foregoing list of material factors is not exhaustive. When relying on Liberty's forward-looking statements and information to make decisions, investors and others should carefully consider the foregoing factors and other uncertainties and potential events. Liberty has assumed that the material factors referred to in the previous paragraph will not cause such forward-looking statements and information to differ materially from actual results or events. However, the list of these factors is not exhaustive and is subject to change and there can be no assurance that such assumptions will reflect the actual outcome of such items or factors. The forward-looking information contained in this press release represents the expectations of Liberty as of the date of this press release and, accordingly, are subject to change after such date. Liberty does not undertake to update this information at any particular time except as required in accordance with applicable laws.

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.

SOURCE Liberty Defense Holdings Ltd.

Related Links

www.libertydefense.com


JERSEY CITY, N.J., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Verified Market Research recently published a report, "Liquid Nitrogen Market" By Storage, Distribution, And Transportation (Tonnage Distribution, Merchant Liquid Distribution, and Cylinder & Packaged Distribution), By Manufacturing Process (Cryogenic Distillation and Pressure Swing Adsorption), By End-User (Metal Manufacturing & Construction, Healthcare, Food & Beverage), and By Geography. According to Verified Market Research, the Global Liquid Nitrogen Market size was valued at USD 15.22 Billion in 2020 and is projected to reach USD 21.83 Billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 4.74% from 2021 to 2028.

Download PDF Brochure: https://www.verifiedmarketresearch.com/download-sample/?rid=41673

Browse in-depth TOC on "Liquid Nitrogen Market"

202 - Pages

126  Tables

37  Figures

Global Liquid Nitrogen Market Overview

Liquid Nitrogen is the fractional distillation of the liquid air that is comprised of sharing the two covalent bonds of nitrogen. It is an inert cryogenic fluid with a temperature of  196 C. It is inert, colorless, odorless, non-corrosive, non-flammable nitrogen. Liquid Nitrogen is commercially produced by compressing and cooling nitrogen gas to a point below its evaporation point at around 196 C. Most common application of the liquid nitrogen is cryogenic refrigerant. The liquid nitrogen contains large amount of air (80%) thus, it can be manufactured easily with high thermal capacity representing long retention time. This liquid is used to serve the purpose of coolant in superconductors, vacuum pumps, and other materials and equipment.

In Medical sector, the liquid nitrogen is used for shielding for the liquid helium used for MRIs and cold temperature medical and beauty treatments. It is also used in removal of unwanted skin, precancerous cells, warts, and cryogenics. Liquid nitrogen in general considered as the cryogenic liquid that is capable of rapid freezing within the contact of living cells. Hence, it is used in cryopreservation of biological samples, such as sperm, eggs, and animal genetic samples.

Key Developments in Liquid Nitrogen Market

In March 2021 , Linde and Bluefors signed an agreement to create cooling solutions for large-scale quantum computers.

, Linde and Bluefors signed an agreement to create cooling solutions for large-scale quantum computers. In June 2017 , Air Products signed an agreement with the Linde to build New York industrial gas plant. Through this new venture namely East Coast Nitrogen, the company produce 1,100 tons per day of liquid nitrogen, liquid oxygen and liquid argon at Air Products existing site.

The major players in the market are Linde Group, Gulf Cryo, Nexair LLC., Praxair Inc., Air Liquide S.A., Messer Group, Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation, Air Products and Chemicals, Inc., Emirates Industrial Gases Co. LLC. And Southern Industrial Gas Berhad.

Verified Market Research has segmented the Global Liquid Nitrogen Market On the basis of Storage, Distribution, And Transportation, Manufacturing Process, End-User, and Geography.

Liquid Nitrogen Market, By Storage, Distribution, And Transportation

Tonnage Distribution



Merchant Liquid Distribution



Cylinder & Packaged Distribution

Liquid Nitrogen Market, By Manufacturing Process

Cryogenic Distillation



Pressure Swing Adsorption

Liquid Nitrogen Market, By End-User

Metal Manufacturing & Construction



Healthcare



Food & Beverage



Chemicals & Pharmaceuticals



Others

Liquid Nitrogen Market by Geography

North America



U.S





Canada





Mexico



Europe



Germany





France





U.K





Rest of Europe



Asia Pacific



China





Japan





India





Rest of Asia Pacific



ROW



Middle East & Africa

&



Latin America

Browse Related Reports:

Laboratory Gas Generators Market By Type (Nitrogen Gas Generators, Hydrogen Gas Generators, Zero Air Generators), By Application (Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry, Gas Chromatography, Gas Analyzers), By End-User (Life Science Industry, Chemical and Petrochemical Industry), By Geography, Forecast, 2021-2028

Food-Grade Industrial Gases Market By Product (Carbon Dioxide, Nitrogen, and Oxygen), By Application (Beverages, Meat, Fish & Seafood), By Geography, Forecast, 2021-2028

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Top automotive fuel cell manufacturers powering the vehicles of 21st century

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MCRA, LLC, a leading medical device, in-vitro diagnostic, and biologics advisory firm and clinical research organization (CRO) integrating U.S. and International Regulatory, Clinical Research, Reimbursement, Healthcare Compliance, Quality Assurance, and Cybersecurity is pleased to announce Devjani Saha, Ph.D., Former Master & Lead Reviewer in the Office of Neurology and Physical Medicine Devices has joined MCRA as Director, Neurology Regulatory Affairs. Dr. Saha has 7+ years of experience in the FDA and 10+ years of clinical research experience in medical robotics and prosthetics. Dr. Saha has extensive knowledge of US regulatory processes associated with neurology and physical medicine devices.

Dr. Saha specializes in the review of medical exoskeletons, brain computer interfaces, physical rehabilitation devices including wearable technology, and early feasibility studies. While working at the FDA, Dr. Saha contributed to the development of the several policies and guidance, including the leapfrog guidance on brain computer interface, policies for the regulation of wearable devices for physical rehabilitation, and standards supporting exoskeleton testing.

Dr. Saha also served as the Early Feasibility Program representative and as a policy analyst for the Office of Clinical Evidence and Analysis with a focus on the Safer Technologies Program and Real-World Evidence. She also helped to launch the Safer Technologies Program (STeP) and provided programmatic expertise during the review of STeP submissions. STeP is a FDA program designed to expedite the review of medical devices and device-led combination products that have the potential to significantly improve safety of existing treatments and diagnostics for conditions/disease that are less serious than those that are eligible for the Breakthrough Devices Program.

Before joining the FDA, Dr. Saha was a researcher in the field of prosthetics and robotic technologies for rehabilitation. Dr. Saha also worked at Mako Surgical where she helped train clinicians and company personnel on the use of a robotic application for orthopedic surgery.

MCRA's Vice President, Neurological Regulatory Affairs, Tim Marjenin said: "Dr. Saha has a great deal of passion and expertise, and we are excited that she has joined our team at MCRA. With her diverse background both within industry as well as at FDA, she is well-positioned to assist clients. The areas of exoskeletons, medical robotics, and especially brain-computer interfaces are advancing and evolving rapidly, and her knowledge will be invaluable to clients seeking to help patients with a multitude of diseases and conditions. MCRA Neuro strives to be at the forefront of innovation and the development of products to improve the lives of patients, and these devices represent important elements of that vision."

Dr. Saha said: "It such an exciting time to be in involved in the field of neurology and physical medicine with cutting edge technologies designed to revolutionizing the way we think of treatment, diagnosis, and patient care. I'm incredibly honored to be joining such a talented group of individuals at MCRA and look forward to helping medical device companies bring safe and effective products to patients in need."

About MCRA, LLC: MCRA is the leading privately held independent medical device, diagnostics, and biologics advisory firm and Clinical Research Organization (CRO). MCRA delivers to its clients' industry experience at integrating five business value creators: regulatory, clinical research, reimbursement, healthcare compliance, and quality assurance to provide a dynamic, market-leading effort from concept to commercialization. MCRA's integrated application of these key value-creating initiatives provides unparalleled value for its clients. MCRA has offices in Washington, DC, Hartford, CT, and New York, NY, and serves more than 700 clients globally. Its core focus areas of therapeutic experience include orthopedics, spine, cardiovascular, diagnostic imaging, wound care, artificial intelligence, dental, general surgery, digital health, neurology, robotics, and in vitro diagnostic (IVD) devices as well as medical device cybersecurity. www.mcra.com

About Viscogliosi Brothers, LLC: Viscogliosi Brothers, LLC (VB), founded MCRA in 2004. VB is headquartered in New York City and specialized in funding venture capital, private equity, and merchant banking activities for the neuromusculoskeletal industry. VB is dedicated to financing healthcare innovation. www.vbllc.com

For more information, please contact:

Alyssa Howard

Senior Director, Business Development

Phone: 215.870.3952

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE MCRA, LCC
LANSING, Mich., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Michigan Chamber of Commerce today applauded the House Regulatory Reform Committee's approval of the Michigan Cannabis Safety Act, which would help improve safety and ensure fairness in Michigan's growing cannabis industry. The Michigan Chamber earlier announced its full support of the bipartisan legislation and testified before the House Regulatory Reform Committee.

"The Chamber applauds the House Regulatory Reform Committee for taking this critical step toward helping Michigan become a national leader in cannabis safety and innovation," said Wendy Block, Vice President of Business Advocacy and Member Engagement for the Michigan Chamber. "By ensuring all cannabis providers follow the same rules and standards like testing, tracking and licensing, this legislation helps promote safety, fairness and a level playing field in this growing industry."

"This legislation creates the framework for a new class of licensees to join the licensed marketplace and create thousands of new businesses," continued Block. "We encourage the full House to pass this important legislation without delay."

The Michigan Cannabis Safety Act is comprised of House Bills 5300-5302 and 5319-5321, and creates a new Specialty Medical Grower license for unlicensed marijuana growers. Right now, caregivers are not required to test, track or label patient product and cannot sell their extra marijuana.

SOURCE Michigan Chamber of Commerce

Related Links

http://www.michamber.com


SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The global microneedle drug delivery systems market size is expected to reach USD 8.10 billion by 2028, according to a new report by Grand View Research Inc. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 5.3% from 2021 to 2028. The growing demand for safer alternatives to the conventional hypodermic injection and increasing awareness regarding minimally invasive and pain-free administration of drugs are expected to boost the market growth. Furthermore, the increasing cases of diabetes are expected to boost the market growth. For instance, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), the number of diabetics has already reached 463 million and is predicted to rise in the next 10 years.

Key Insights & Findings:

The hollow type segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2020 as they are considered ideal for the use of vaccine and hormonal therapy patients

The dissolving type segment is expected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period as it only requires one step and the microneedle needs not to be removed after insertion

The metal material segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2020. Stainless steel and titanium are the most frequently employed metals

By application, the drug delivery segment dominated the market in 2020. The vaccine delivery segment is expected to register the fastest growth rate during the forecast period due to the increased awareness regarding vaccination among the population

Asia Pacific is anticipated to expand at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period due to the presence of untapped opportunities in the emerging economies, such as China and India .

Read 120 page market research report, "Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Hollow, Dissolving, Solid, Coated), By Material (Metal, Silicon, Polymer), By Application, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021 - 2028", by Grand View Research

Drug delivery via microneedles is one of the most efficient procedures compared to traditional hypodermic injections. Microneedles are a self-administering platform for transdermal medication delivery that has a high drug bioavailability. The microneedle design and drug formulation can control the dose, delivery rate, and efficacy of the medications. Microneedle also helps reduce or eliminate biohazardous sharps waste. In the coming years, microneedles are expected to have a greater impact on clinical care.

Microneedles are still under development and use a variety of drugs in clinical trials. The majority of studies have shown that this technique produces positive effects. This approach has the potential to be used for therapeutic purposes in a variety of fields. For instance, Carnegie Mellon University is developing a COVID-19 vaccination injection method employing 3D printed hybrid microneedle arrays (Hybrid-MNA). The Hybrid-MNA approach not only allows for lower doses but is also painless and has the potential to be self-administered. These technologies are predicted to enable the production of microneedles at a cheaper cost. Microneedles have a wide range of applications, including vaccine administration, hormonal delivery, cancer therapy, pain management, and cosmetics.

Grand View Research has segmented the global microneedle drug delivery systems market based on type, material, application, and region:

Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Solid



Hollow



Dissolving



Coated



Others

Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Silicon



Metal



Polymer



Others

Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

Dermatology



Drug Delivery



Pain Management



Cancer Therapy



Vaccine Delivery



Others

Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2016 - 2028)

North America



U.S.





Canada



Europe



U.K.





Germany





France





Italy





Spain



Asia Pacific



China





Japan





India





Thailand





South Korea



Latin America



Brazil





Mexico





Argentina





Colombia



Middle East and Africa

and

Saudi Arabia





South Africa





UAE

List of Key Players of Microneedle Drug Delivery Systems Market

Raphas

Novartis International AG

Becton Dickinson and Company

and Company B. Braun

Nanopass Technologies Limited

Termo

Smiths Medical

Cardinal Health

3M .

Check out more studies related to drug and vaccine delivery systems, conducted by Grand View Research:

Vaccine Delivery Devices Market  The global vaccine delivery devices market size was valued at USD 3.33 billion in 2016 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period. Increasing research and investment for the development of vaccines is also one of the key drivers.

The global vaccine delivery devices market size was valued at in 2016 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% during the forecast period. Increasing research and investment for the development of vaccines is also one of the key drivers. Novel Drug Delivery Systems In Cancer Therapy Market  The global novel drug delivery systems in cancer therapy market size was valued at USD 4.31 billion in 2016 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 22.9% during the forecast period. Use of nanoparticles to treat cancers is expected to boost market growth.

Browse through Grand View Research's coverage of the Global Medical Devices Industry.

Gain access to Grand View Compass, our BI enabled intuitive market research database of 10,000+ reports

About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

Contact:

Sherry James

Corporate Sales Specialist, USA

Grand View Research, Inc.

Phone: 1-415-349-0058

Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519

Email: [email protected]

Web: https://www.grandviewresearch.com

Follow Us: LinkedIn | Twitter

SOURCE Grand View Research, Inc.
WASHINGTON, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA will hold a virtual media briefing at 3 p.m. EDT Thursday, Oct. 28, to discuss the latest results from the agency's Juno spacecraft. The science team will reveal new findings that provide the first 3D look at how the planet's roiling atmosphere operates underneath the top layers of clouds, and how these revelations offer insight into the atmospheres of giant planets elsewhere in the universe.

The event will take place from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, which manages the Juno mission. It will be livestreamed on NASA Television, the NASA app, the agency's website, NASA YouTube and Twitter.

Briefing participants include:

Lucas Paganini , Juno program scientist, NASA Headquarters, Washington

, Juno program scientist, NASA Headquarters, Scott Bolton , Juno principal investigator, Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio

, Juno principal investigator, Southwest Research Institute, Marzia Parisi , Juno scientist, JPL

, Juno scientist, JPL Keren Duer , Juno scientist, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel

, Juno scientist, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Leigh Fletcher , Juno participating scientist, University of Leicester, England

, Juno participating scientist, University of Alessandro Mura , Juno co-investigator, Institute for Space Astrophysics and Planetology, Rome

To participate in the briefing by telephone, reporters must provide their name and affiliation no later than one hour before the start of the briefing to Rexana Vizza at: [email protected] . Members of the media and the public may also ask questions on social media during the briefing using #JunoMission.

Juno has been orbiting and monitoring Jupiter since 2016. The spacecraft is now in an extended mission designed to expand on discoveries it already has made about Jupiter's interior structure, internal magnetic field, atmosphere, and magnetosphere. It will also involve close passes of Jupiter's north polar cyclones, future flybys of the moons Europa and Io, and the first exploration of the faint rings encircling the planet.

JPL, a division of Caltech in Pasadena, California, manages the Juno mission. Juno is part of NASA's New Frontiers Program, which is managed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, for the agency's Science Mission Directorate in Washington. Lockheed Martin Space in Denver built and operates the spacecraft.

To learn more about Juno, visit:

https://www.nasa.gov/juno

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


BOSTON, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nereid Therapeutics, a company discovering new disease treatments by applying pioneering research and technologies in biomolecular condensates, announces the appointment of Laura L. Forese, M.D., MPH, and Rupert Vessey, FRCP, Ph.D., to its Board of Directors. Dr. Forese is executive vice president and chief operating officer of NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the nation's most comprehensive academic health care delivery systems. Dr. Vessey is executive vice president and president of Global Research and Early Development at Bristol Myers Squibb (BMS), a global biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines for patients with serious diseases.

"What Nereid is doing to translate cellular biophysics into drug discovery and design is completely new and very exciting, and we are fortunate to have Rupert and Laura on the company's board to provide strategic guidance as we work to realize the promise of this new technology for patients," said Seth Harrison, M.D., chair of the Nereid Board of Directors and founder and managing partner of ATP, the life sciences venture capital firm that created Nereid.

As executive vice president and chief operating officer, Dr. Laura Forese has ultimate operational responsibility for the NewYork-Presbyterian enterprise, including 10 hospital campuses, 200 primary and specialty care clinics and medical groups, more than 45,000 employees and affiliated physicians, and more than $9 billion in revenue. A pediatric orthopedic surgeon and faculty member at Columbia University for more than 20 years, Dr. Forese has chaired the board of the NIH Clinical Center Research Hospital since 2016. She has an engineering degree from Princeton University and medical and public health degrees from Columbia University.

Under Dr. Rupert Vessey's stewardship, BMS has made substantial progress advancing the company's early-stage pipeline and capabilities, focusing its research in therapeutic areas where there is the best opportunity to deliver transformational medicines to patients. Today, the company has more than 50 compounds in development across more than 40 diseases, with emphasis on oncology, hematology, cardiovascular disease and immunology. In his 24-year career in industry, Dr. Vessey has held leadership roles in discovery research, preclinical and early clinical development, and informatics at Celgene, Merck Research Laboratories, Rosetta Inpharmatics, and GlaxoSmithKline. Dr. Vessey graduated from Oxford University with degrees in physiological sciences and clinical medicine.

"Nereid's work to discover and pursue novel targets using its unique approach to liquid-liquid phase separation is exhibiting potential in many disease areas, and I am pleased to join the company's board at this critical time in the company's growth and progress," Dr. Vessey said.

"Biomolecular condensate science is an important avenue of exploration that we hope will lead to new therapeutic interventions that contribute great value to patients and society. It is my honor and pleasure to advise Nereid on patient and health care provider perspectives as the company's discoveries advance," Dr. Forese said.

Other members of the Nereid Board of Directors include:

Raj Chopra, FRCP, FRCPath, FRSB, Ph.D., head of Oncology and venture partner at ATP.

Michael Ehlers, M.D., Ph.D., chief scientific officer and venture partner at ATP.

Robert J. Hugin, former chairman and CEO of Celgene Corporation.

Spiros Liras, Ph.D., co-founder and interim CEO of Nereid Therapeutics and venture partner at ATP.

Clifford Brangwynne, Ph.D., (observer), professor of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Princeton University, co-founder of Nereid Therapeutics, and chair of the Nereid scientific advisory board.

About Nereid Therapeutics

Nereid Therapeutics, an ATP company, is discovering new disease treatments using proprietary state-of-the-art technologies for generating, visualizing, and measuring liquid-liquid phase separation and the resulting biomolecular condensates. Nereid applies leading expertise in soft matter physics and cell biology to pioneer completely new ways to fight intractable diseases. For more information, visit www.nereidtx.com.

About ATP

Founded in 1999, ATP is a leader in life sciences venture capital, with $2.65 billion in committed capital and offices in New York, London, San Francisco, and Cambridge, MA. ATP creates companies starting at various stages, from pre-IP ideas to asset spinouts, investing in them from seed stage through IPO and beyond. The core of ATP's strategy is providing flexible capital and access to a world-class team of venture partners and EIRs, to build sustainable, research-driven enterprises that deliver therapeutics to improve human lives. For more information, visit www.appletreepartners.com.

Contact

[email protected]

SOURCE Nereid Therapeutics
CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nielsen continues to dedicate itself to telling the story of the power of Black audiences, their diversity, and the representation of the collective Black community. According to "Seeing and Believing: Meeting Black audience demand for representation that matters," the newest report in Nielsen's Diverse Intelligence Series, the U.S. Black population has a complex and powerful legacy that continues to shape countries and cultures around the world. Yet, when it comes to representation in media, the complexity that creates the richness of their experience is often lost, and when present, undervalued.

As Black Americans continue to video stream, listen to radio and podcasts, as well as buy Black, they continue to lead the conversation and stay connected through social media -- having an unprecedented impact on brands and what consumers watch, purchase, and listen to.

"As the media industry looks to be more inclusive of Black storytellers and brands look to grow their bottom lines and brand awareness with Black audiences, understanding who we are, where we're connected, and how we're changing is as important as ever. All of this work translates to the important acknowledgment of the value the Black community delivers 'for the culture' and beyond," says Charlene Polite Corley, VP, Diverse Insights & Partnerships, Nielsen.

Key findings from the report include:

Black America is taking control of both the economic and media influence they hold and they are using it to invest in Black experiences, Black communities, and Black content.

Two out of three Black viewers are more likely to watch representative content and buy from brands that advertise in representative content.

In 2020, Black Buying Power was at $1.57 Trillion .

. In 2021, Black viewing power was at 1.06 Trillion.

The urgency to get representation right is realit's a primary factor for the massive viewing levels Black audiences deliver and the shift in Black viewing power to platforms most representative of their community and identity group. But getting representation right is increasingly nuanced.

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, 9% of America's rural population is Black; 16% of Black people in the U.S. report speaking a language other than English at home; people identifying as "Black in combination with another race" increased 89% in the last decade; and Afro-Latinos are 8% of today's U.S. Black population.

58% of Black audiences say there's still not enough representation of their identity group on screen.

Nearly a quarter of the reported genres in Gracenote Inclusion Analytics reported zero representation of Black talent in recurring lead roles.

The preference to connect with meaningful content extends to audio with traditional radio reaching 92% of the U.S. Black population each week, and this same group of listeners averaging over an hour and a half a week of streaming audio.

Traditional radio continues to prove the power of its reach providing the gossip, pandemic guidance, and breaking news that's kept Black listeners connected this year, for over 21 million minutes a week.

Black listeners aren't just streaming audio more than other audiences, they're listening closely when brands reach outaveraging a 73% brand recall for podcast ads.

Social media's omnipresence within Black people's daily media routine continues as a source for nuanced content; digital influencers are an even more important touchpoint.

51% of Black people 18+ spend daily time on TikTok and 29% spend daily time on Instagram than their counterparts.

Audience influence and advocacy are intertwined as Black creators and viewers across platforms unify to uproot exploitation within the media ecosystem and create a sense of urgency for social change.

27% of credited writers were Black on the most representative broadcast and cable dramas for Black talent in the first quarter of 2021.

70% of representation isn't just for endemic networks: seven out of the 10 top dramas represented by Black talent aired on general audience networks.

In the era of personalization and inclusion in media, Black audiences worldwide are looking to see both their collective and distinct experiences represented.

Black America delivers over 1 trillion viewing minutes in a single quarter but is also twice as likely to feel portrayals of their identity group on T.V. are completely inaccurate.

Jamaica has a culture with global influence, including places like the U.K. and 20% of the foreign-born Black population in the U.S.

has a culture with global influence, including places like the U.K. and 20% of the foreign-born Black population in the U.S. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa , outsources global trends like Afrobeats and "Nollywood" films, and is considered home for 18% of foreign-born Black people in the U.S.

Businesses need to demonstrate their understanding of the diverse segments within the Black community.

Black men have a high on-screen presence in T.V. content with a 15.5% share of screen, but 44% of Black men feel that the content that portrayed their identity group on-screen was inaccurate.

While the number of advertisers spending in traditional media focused on reaching African Americans has been up 16% since last summer, Black men are increasingly engaged outside of these platforms to find the forums that offer nuanced representation, connection, and solace.

Black women are twice as likely compared to viewers overall to seek out content where they are seen on screen.

Embracing the impact of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) is a strong example of when brands show they understand the nuances of the Black experiences. It is the opportunity to connect with diverse communities on personal, culturally relevant levels.

For more details and insights, download the full report here. Join the conversation on Facebook (Nielsen Community) and Twitter (@NielsenKnows).

ABOUT NIELSEN'S DIVERSE INTELLIGENCE SERIES

In 2011, Nielsen launched the Diverse Intelligence Series, a robust portfolio of comprehensive reports that focus solely on diverse consumers' unique consumption and purchasing habits. The series has become an industry resource to help brands better understand and reach ethnic customers. To learn more about Nielsen's Diverse Intelligence research series, visit www.nielsen.com.

ABOUT NIELSEN

Nielsen shapes the world's media and content as a global leader in audience measurement, data and analytics. Through our understanding of people and their behaviors across all channels and platforms, we empower our clients with independent and actionable intelligence so they can connect and engage with their audiencesnow and into the future.

An S&P 500 company, Nielsen (NYSE: NLSN) operates around the world in more than 55 countries. Learn more at www.nielsen.com or www.nielsen.com/investors and connect with us on social media.

Media Contact

Patricia Ratulangi: 312.841.9159; [email protected]

SOURCE Nielsen

Related Links

https://global.nielsen.com/global/en/


SOMERVILLE, Mass., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NODAR, the leading provider of multi-camera 3D vision technology, announced today that it has secured a $1.67M SBIR Phase II contract with the United States Army to develop 3D vision systems for military off-road autonomous ground vehicles.

NODAR will be working with the U.S. Army in developing 3D vision systems for autonomous military vehicles operating in off-road and harsh environments. Rather than detecting pedestrians, traffic signs and signals as done for passenger vehicles, NODAR's Hammerhead technology will be used to sense terrain, vegetation and other off-road obstacles in degraded visual environments that have low or no light, dust, smoke, rain, or other harsh conditions.

"NODAR is unique in our ability to provide long range, high resolution, realtime 3D sensing using independently mounted cameras while remaining resilient to unfriendly environmental conditions," says Leaf Jiang, Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer at NODAR. "NODAR's 3D vision system produces dense 3D pointclouds with highly accurate distance estimates to each pixel in the scene. These data provide the detail needed to navigate through difficult terrain and around obstacles."

NODAR's long-range vision systems can sense up to 1,000 meters, which allows the perception system to detect hidden threats long before the vehicle enters the area. To achieve this, NODAR mounts multiple cameras with overlapping views on the vehicle, and applies patent-pending computer vision software to maintain alignment between cameras. Because of this, NODAR Hammerhead uniquely provides 360 degree, long-range, high-density, high frame-rate 3D data in real-time to the vehicle's navigation system.

"The Army Applied Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program connects Army Soldiers and technical and operational subject matter experts with small businesses to provide insight into unique Army technology needs and guide those small businesses through the Army research and development ecosystem," said Dr. Matt Willis, Director of Army Prize Competitions and Army Applied SBIR Program, in the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology (ASA(ALT)). "Partnering with these small businesses is critical in helping us to develop game-changing technologies in capabilities such as sensing to support the Army and our Soldiers, so we're excited to be working with this latest round of small-business awardees."

About NODAR

NODAR is the leading provider of camera-based 3D vision software technology and is a crucial component in the development of ADAS and autonomous vehicles bringing safety, advanced performance, and cost-effectiveness to the automotive market. NODAR's 3D vision platform delivers reliable, ultra-precise, and real-time 3D sensing at a long-range (up to 1000 meters), providing LiDAR-quality at the price point of camera technology. NODAR uniquely provides long-range, high-density, high frame-rate 3D data and can detect any object as small as 10cm to 150m. Its high performance makes it an ideal solution for forward collision warning, path planning, automatic emergency braking, traffic jam assist, VRU detection, and parking valet. NODAR was founded in 2018 and backed by Rhapsody Venture Partners, Plug and Play Tech Center, and Cherrystone Angel Group. For more information, please visit www.nodarsensor.com.

CONTACT: DeeDee Rudenstein, (m) 267-521-9654, [email protected]

SOURCE NODAR

Related Links

http://www.nodarsensor.com/


SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Onward Financing today announced that it is approved to provide home buyers in Arizona its innovative home financing solutions. By entering the Arizona market, Onward expands its reach beyond its home market of Minnesota and gains access to one of the hottest real estate markets in the country. Licensed real estate agents now have a new set of financing tools to create listings and close more transactions.

Onward's Mortgage for Movers product enables homeowners to use the equity in their current home to buy their next and then sell after they close. This product eliminates sales contingencies, qualifies them for a traditional mortgage on their destination home, and save thousands over alternatives like an instant offer. The Assured Close program allows home buyers to make a cash equivalent offer and still close with traditional financing eliminating financing and appraisal contingencies in the process.

"Onward's products are transforming how home buyers purchase their next home," says Melanie, Onward's Arizona Branch Manager. "Our products allow home buyers to disrupt the traditional home buying timeline by allowing them to use the equity in their current house to buy their next home first, then sell after they have completed their move."

Onward works with qualified buyers with reputable real estate agents. Real Estate agents leverage the products to create more listings, ensure their clients close as contracted and win more transactions by writing offers without contingencies. Agents can consistently sell their client's homes for more by staging and showing the listing to get the highest offers without inconveniencing their clients.

About Onward Financing (www.onwardfinancing.com): Onward grew out the desire to simply make it easier to buy a home. We started Onward not to be another mortgage lender, but rather a financial partner that helps people move on their terms. Onward has all the traditional mortgage options of banks and brokers, but our portfolio products, including the Mortgage for Movers and the Assured Close Program, help people buy homes without contingencies and move on their timelines.

SOURCE Onward Financing

Related Links

onwardfinancing.com


DALLAS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Parks Associates is hosting energy leaders tomorrow at the virtual session "Shifting Customer Behavior: Energy Efficiency and Demand Response," sponsored by Grid4C, as part of the research firm's 12th annual Smart Energy Summit: Engaging the Consumer. The virtual conference, sponsored by Bidgely, Grid4C, Austin Energy, dcbel, FLO, American Water Homeowner Services, and Very, examines the role of technology, connected devices, and new services in enabling consumers to be active participants in energy savings through energy management solutions in the home.

Parks Associates: High Likelihood of Allowing Electricity Providers to Make Energy-Saving Adjustments

Smart, Clean, Connected: The Future of Home Energy Management, Parks Associates' annual consumer study of 5,000 US broadband households, reports there is consumer interest and willingness to participate in energy efficiency and utility demand response programs, but low familiarity and perceived lack of value are inhibitors to participation.

"Half of broadband households show willingness to allow utility providers to control their devices to save energy in exchange for $100," said Elizabeth Parks, President, Parks Associates. "The market is opening up to educate consumers on the potential for energy savings, the value of connected devices, and how to be active participants in energy efficiency."

"Shifting Customer Behavior: Energy Efficiency and Demand Response," on October 27 at 2 PM CT, features a visionary presentation by Drew Higgins, Senior Director, CPS Energy, and an executive Q&A with Hannah Bascom, Head of Energy Partnerships, Google Nest.

"Energy providers are looking for ways to differentiate their brand and offer innovative services to customers that leverage data from the deployment of smart meters," said Dr. Noa Ruschin-Rimini, CEO of Grid4C. "We are excited that Mike Wajsgras, Executive Director Innovation, Growth, and Digital of Constellation Energy, will share how they are using Grid4C's AI-powered energy analytics to detect customers that have faulty or inefficient home appliances, in order to offer them repair services to cover repair costs as part of their successful 'Home Protect' plan, providing valuable insights and peace of mind to their customers."

Patrice Samuels, Senior Manager, Market Research, Parks Associates, will moderate the interactive panel highlighting strategies to drive adoption of renewable and connected energy solutions, featuring these leading executives:

Steve Herbert , Director of Global Business Development, Samsung SmartThings

, Director of Global Business Development, James Jackson , Director of Channel Development, Emerson Commercial & Residential Solutions, Emerson

, Director of Channel Development, Emerson Commercial & Residential Solutions, Emerson Candice Tsay , Senior Planning Analyst, Con Edison

, Senior Planning Analyst, Mike Wajsgras , Executive Director, Constellation

"Energy-saving features are one of the top attributes consumers look for in a home today," said Steve Herbert, Director of Global Business Development at Samsung SmartThings. "With the help of IoT, it has never been easier for consumers to take control of their home energy consumption, which can lead to lower monthly energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint."

To schedule an interview or to request data, contact Rosey Ulpino, [email protected], 972-490-1113.

About Smart Energy Summit

Smart Energy Summit: Engaging the Consumer addresses the evolution of the consumer utility market, the impact of COVID-19 on energy management programs, and new opportunities to drive engagement in utility-sponsored programs. Virtual panels and networking sessions address strategies for utilities, service providers, retailers, software providers, and manufacturers.

Follow the event: @SmartEnergySmt, #SmartEnergy21, www.ses2021.com

Contact:

Rosey Ulpino

Parks Associates

972.996.0202

[email protected]

SOURCE Parks Associates

Related Links

http://www.parksassociates.com/events/smart-energy-summit/about


**PlantFuel Inc. is committed to validating their products with a strong investment in robust clinical research & development. They have sponsored a human clinical trial lead by CAHS (The Center for Applied Health Sciences), one of the premier clinical research organizations specializing in dietary supplement, sports nutrition & human performance to evaluate the safety, tolerability & efficacy of PlantFuel Performance Protein, plant-based protein in healthy, active men and women consumed daily during an 8-week exercise program.

****Using the "gold-standard" in human clinical research design with a randomized, double-blind controlled trial in 60 healthy volunteers. The study will be conducted across multiple sites (3 sites), including an NCAA Division I university.

**This trial will have research subjects randomly assigned to either PlantFuel Performance Protein or Whey Protein Isolate control product to compare how an isonitrogenous (equal amount of protein) and isoenergetic (equal total calories) plant-based protein that is augmented with additional vegan BCAAs and an apoptogenic mushroom blend (PeakO2) influences muscle strength, endurance/ stamina, body composition (muscle to fat ratio), recovery and digestive tolerability.

****Additionally, a subset of research volunteers will be assessed for the effect of PlantFuel Performance Protein on blood essential amino acid bioavailability.

PlantFuel's Performance Protein delivers 20g of complete, Plant Fueled protein with added vegan-fermented BCAAs as InstAminos and PeakO2 performance mushrooms.

"What our team of physicians and scientists has created with our Performance Protein is simply revolutionary. We believe we have the first plant protein that can rival the whey protein market and give consumers a performance-based option that is plant-based," states PlantFuel founder Brad Pyatt.

Comments CAHS Partner and Principal Medical/Scientific Advisor Hector Lopez, MD, CSCS, FISSN, "We welcome the opportunity to collaborate with PlantFuel via this SRA to build a body of evidence substantiating the safety and efficacy of their plant-based finished products for supporting peak exercise performance, recovery and promoting healthy adaptations to an active lifestyle. We commend PlantFuel for investing heavily in assuring all stakeholders that the commercial finished products purchased by consumers are evaluated for safety and efficacy via human clinical trials. This work will provide critical elements of their education, marketing, sales and risk management platforms."

CAHS CEO Tim Ziegenfuss, PhD, CSCS, FISSN, states, "Our SRA initiative was rolled out precisely for brands such as PlantFuel, whose leaders understand the value of utilizing what we call a 'Halo of Science' as a bedrock principle in their mission to provide plant-based performance nutrition products that may rival conventional dairy/animal products that already have a strong evidence base.

"One of the initial clinical trials we're designing will compare a standard whey protein supplement head-to-head with a PlantFuel protein blend formulated with other bioactive ingredients, such as an adaptogenic mushroom blend and vegan fermented BCAAs, to bridge some gaps in standard vegan protein supplements."

About PlantFuel Life Inc.

PlantFuel Life Inc is a scientifically focused plant-based wellness company managed by a group of successful entrepreneurs who have extensive experience in the areas of consumer packaged goods, manufacturing, logistics, and distribution. FUEL is a CPG life science company focused on the plant-based foods and supplements industry. https://plantfuel.com/

The Canadian Securities Exchange ("CSE") has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news 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.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE PlantFuel Life Inc.

Related Links

www.plantfuel.com


AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Praecipio Consulting, a leading IT services and business process management consulting firm based in Austin, TX, announced today an investment from Periscope Equity, alongside Praecipio Consulting Management. Periscope Equity is a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on high-growth, founder-owned, and tech-enabled service and software companies. Through Periscope Equity's investment, Praecipio Consulting is positioned to play a greater role in helping organizations around the world solve complex business problems, empower teams to perform at their best, and drive exceptional customer experiences through tech and process-powered solutions. As part of the transaction, Periscope Equity plans to commit significant incremental capital to fund future acquisitions and new growth opportunities.

"In terms of scale and leadership in the space, Praecipio Consulting has differentiated itself as a true enterprise-level strategic advisor with strong customer-focused business practices and superior technical capabilities," said Periscope Equity Principal Eric Hinkle. "Praecipio Consulting has experienced significant growth over the past five years and with that growth, they have made the necessary investments to scale, creating an ideal platform investment. Our strategy is to join forces with Atlassian Solution Partners and build the dominant Scaled Agile, DevOps, and Service Management consulting firm with global reach."

"Our partnership with Periscope Equity aligns remarkably well with our vision for what's next in the digital landscape and the important role that businesses play in elevating the human experience and creating meaningful change," said Christian Lane, CEO and Founding Partner of Praecipio Consulting. "As we complete our fifteenth year in business, we look forward to this exciting new chapter, one where we can capitalize on the opportunity to accelerate growth, deliver more business value to enterprise clients across the globe, and make a collective impact in our communities."

For nearly two decades, Atlassian tools have enabled millions of organizations to streamline business and IT processes, collaborate effectively, and achieve enterprise-scale agility. As business leaders face increasing uncertainty in the ever-evolving marketplace, enterprise organizations across the Fortune 500 continue to rely on Atlassian's visionary products to close the digital divide, scale Agile processes, and align diverse business teams. Due to its extensive history with successful, large-scale Atlassian deployments, today's business challenges have created a significant opportunity for Praecipio Consulting to streamline siloed, multi-environment implementations of Atlassian products and other digital technologies through best-in-class business practices, consulting, integration, and training services.

"Praecipio Consulting has been an instrumental part of our customers' success, providing their Atlassian expertise and unique services to companies across many industries," said Cameron Deatsch, Chief Revenue Officer at Atlassian. "Praecipio Consulting has gone above and beyond to provide innovative solutions to Atlassian customers, and we are thrilled to support their continued growth and partnership with Periscope Equity."

"By leveraging the talented team and experienced company that Praecipio Consulting has built, we believe the firm will expand its capabilities to further enable enterprise clients to better execute on their most critical workflow - software development  that has 'eaten the world' of Fortune 500 IT departments, and that Atlassian products were developed to optimize. Through its strategic process improvement consulting capabilities, Praecipio Consulting can deliver not only technology and process excellence, but people excellence as well, enabling these organizations to achieve next-level strategic and competitive performance," added Joe McIlhattan, Vice President at Periscope Equity.



About Praecipio Consulting

Praecipio Consulting is a leading business process and technology consulting firm based in Austin, Texas helping organizations successfully achieve their digital transformation goals. Specializing in process frameworks, including Agile, IT Service Management (ITSM), DevOps, and Enterprise Service Management, Praecipio Consulting serves as a strategic partner to industry leaders and organizations of all sizes, optimizing business processes with Atlassian's robust product suite and other category-leading technologies. As an Atlassian Platinum Enterprise Solution Partner, Praecipio Consulting offers integrated business and technology solutions that help clients deliver a delightful customer experience, increase costs savings, and improve business performance. Since establishing an official partnership with Atlassian in 2008, Atlassian has recognized Praecipio Consulting as their Partner of the Year for five of the last six years, including ITSM Partner of the Year in 2018 and Enterprise Services Partner of the Year in 2020.

To learn more, visit www.praecipio.com and listen to The Digital Transformation(ists) podcast. Join the Praecipio Consulting community on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

About Periscope Equity

Periscope Equity is a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on control investments in technology-enabled service and software companies across  Digital Marketing, Healthcare Technology, Security Solutions, and Business Process Automation. Periscope Equity targets companies that are founder-owned, offer mission-critical products and service offerings, demonstrate a history of sustainable profitability, and have known avenues to accelerate growth. In alignment with proven management teams, Periscope Equity provides strategic, operational, and commercial expertise to drive superior investment returns.



To learn more, visit www.periscopeequity.com

Contact:



Guy Murrel

Catapult PR

[email protected]

(303) 581-7760

SOURCE Praecipio Consulting

Related Links

http://www.praecipio.com


Pioneering Clinical Laboratory Services Company Obtains ISO 9001:2015 Certification for Quality Management Systems. Tweet this

ISO (the International Organization for Standardization) is a worldwide federation of national standards bodies. Its QMS certification plays a critical role in the services industry as it enables an organization therein to demonstrate adherence to a neutral, international, expert 3rd party's (ISO) practices and processes attached to quality.

XiltriX's ISO 9001:2015 certificate was issued by American Systems Registrar, LLC, a provider of third-party system registration and accredited by the ANSI National Accreditation Board. The scope of XiltriX's certification includes designs, installs, and maintains a real-time monitoring system to provide its monitoring-as-a-service solution to organizations. Activities at XiltriX's corporate headquarters (9255 Towne Centre Dr. Suite 925, San Diego, CA 92121) are included in the scope of certification."

"For many businesses, 'quality' can be a marketing term or otherwise 'fuzzy'," said XiltriX President, Stephen Tierney. "The ISO QMS certification provides an objective standard for our business and all other service providers  as to what defines and preserves quality in a service offering and the company behind it. We are proud of our team for setting high standards and improving every day, and now, for achieving this important credential."

In addition to the ISO 9001:2015 QMS Certification, the XiltriX system can be fully validated and is compliant with all applicable quality and regulatory standards: GMP, GLP, GxP, FDA 21 CFR part 11, CAP, CAPA, HACCP, JCAHO, and USP 797, among others.

For more information on lab monitoring as a service , contact XiltriX at https://xiltrixusa.com/contact .

About XiltriX

XiltriX was established to make life science laboratories and environments safer and more predictable. As a pioneer in safeguarding scientific assets and equipment, XiltriX is revolutionizing laboratory and environmental monitoring for life science, pharma, and other industries. The company provides Monitoring-as-a-Service, inclusive of hardware, software, support, custom deployed for each of its clients. For more information, visit https://xiltrixusa.com/ .

Contact: Amanda Zimmer, +1-858-208-0368, [email protected]

SOURCE XiltriX North America

Related Links

www.xiltrixusa.com


BELOIT, Wis., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Louis Pinkham, Chief Executive Officer of Regal Rexnord Corporation (NYSE: RRX), announced that the Board of Directors, at its regular quarterly meeting held on October 26, 2021, declared a dividend of $0.33 per share. The dividend is payable on January 14, 2022, to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 31, 2021. The company has paid a dividend every quarter since January 1961.

Regal Rexnord Corporation is a global leader in the engineering and manufacturing of industrial powertrain solutions, power transmission components, electric motors and electronic controls, air moving products, and specialty electronics, serving customers throughout the world. Through longstanding technology leadership and an intentional focus on producing the most energy-efficient products and systems, Regal Rexnord helps create a better tomorrow  for its customers and for the planet. Regal Rexnord is comprised of four operating segments: Motion Control Solutions, Climate Solutions, Commercial Systems and Industrial Systems. Regal Rexnord is headquartered in Beloit, Wisconsin and has manufacturing, sales, and service facilities worldwide. For more information, visit RegalRexnord.com .

SOURCE Regal Rexnord Corporation
"This is a true win-win project that will create hundreds of good jobs in the community, while at the same time providing important environmental sustainability outcomes that benefit the residents and businesses along the Truckee River system," said Governor Sisolak. "I commend each of the government entities that have made this model of regional coordination and cooperation a reality."

Far-reaching benefits of the pipeline include:

Eliminating the infusion of nitrate-rich effluent water into the Truckee River by utilizing it for mechanical use at TRI Center

Protects rate payers and allows for growth by deferring a $25 million expansion of the TMWRF waste water treatment facility

expansion of the TMWRF waste water treatment facility Allows TRI Center and State of Nevada to provide clean instream flow water, maintaining the flow of the Truckee River

to provide clean instream flow water, maintaining the flow of the Truckee River Improves the overall water quality to Pyramid Lake by reducing the nitrates into Truckee River and protects the endangered Cui-ui fish

Creates hundreds of good paying jobs in the local community

"This important project checks the box on several of our major environmental objectives," said TMWA Director John Enloe. "This has proven a very innovative solution to an otherwise complex set of needs in the region. We couldn't be more pleased to see this project get underway."

"Switch is proud to have been part of this critical infrastructure project from inception through fruition," said Switch President Thomas Morton. "This innovative solution helps not only Switch, but our 1,300 plus global customers, operate mission-critical technology infrastructure in the most sustainable way using 100% recycled water to protect the area's precious natural resources."

Leaders from each of the participating municipalities and agencies also weighed in with their support, including:

Hillary Schieve, Mayor of Reno, Nevada

"Innovation and collaboration have led to the Regional Water Improvement Project. In my time as Mayor, I can't think of another project that has led to virtually every major stakeholder in the Truckee River region coming together with a single purpose. Reno has played an important role alongside our colleagues and we are very excited to see so many benefits coming to life."

Ed Lawson, Mayor of Sparks, Nevada

"With water becoming an ever-more precious resource, we have been very mindful to protect the residents of Sparks and all of the neighboring communities throughout the Truckee River region from increased costs. This project masterfully uses new technologies in repurposing waste water and in so doing, off-sets $25 million in rate payer investments in otherwise needed improvements. We are proud to have played a role in bringing this project to life."

Jay Carmona, Chair of the Nevada Storey County Commission

"Few projects deliver such widespread benefits as does the Regional Water Improvement Project. From protecting the quality of the Truckee to protecting the endangered Cui-ui fish and ensuring that future generations can enjoy Pyramid Lake, this project provides benefits across Storey County and beyond."

Roger Norman, Master Developer, Tahoe-Reno Industrial Center

"In every project with which I've been associated, we start with community benefits at the core. This one is especially meaningful in a time of such environmental importance. We will do good for people, water and endangered species and, at the same time, address a critical environmental need of providing useful water for business without adding burden to public uses."

SOURCE Switch

Related Links

www.switch.com


BRIARWOOD, N.Y., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Samaritan Daytop Village, Inc. ("SDV") is providing notice of a recent incident that may affect the security of certain individuals' information.

On September 22, 2021, SDV discovered suspicious activity on its network. SDV immediately launched an investigation to determine the nature and scope of the incident. The investigation is ongoing. However, the investigation determined that an unauthorized actor gained access to certain SDV systems and that certain information contained in SDV's systems may have been viewed or taken by the unauthorized actor.

Although there is no indication that identity theft occurred as a result of this incident, SDV has not been able to rule out the possibility that some individuals' information was or may have been viewed or taken. SDV is in the process of reviewing the information contained in its potentially impacted systems and determining what information was or may have been impacted.

The following types of information that SDV maintains in its systems and that were or may have been, impacted by this incident include individuals' names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, medical diagnosis/medical treatment information, and health insurance information. To date, SDV has not received any reports of fraudulent misuse of any information potentially impacted.

SDV takes this incident and the security of personal information in its care seriously. SDV moved quickly to investigate and respond to this incident and assess the security of its relevant systems, including by augmenting its policies and procedures for addressing network security. SDV will also be providing notice to any individuals who were potentially impacted by this incident, which notice will include further steps individuals can take to protect their information, should they feel it is appropriate to do so.

SDV has also established a dedicated assistance line for individuals seeking additional information regarding this incident. Individuals seeking additional information may call the toll-free assistance line at 855-675-3116. This toll-free line is available Monday  Friday from 9:00 a.m.  9:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Individuals may also write to SDV at Samaritan Daytop Village, Inc., P.O. Box 4587, Portland, OR 97208-4597 with questions.

Potentially affected individuals may also consider the information and resources outlined below. SDV encourages potentially impacted individuals to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft and fraud and to review account statements, credit reports, and explanation of benefits forms for suspicious activity and to report any suspicious activity immediately to law enforcement, their insurance company, their health care provider, their financial institution, or their state Attorney General.

Under U.S. law, a consumer is entitled to one free credit report annually from each of the three major credit reporting bureaus, Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. To order a free credit report, visit www.annualcreditreport.com or call, toll-free, 1-877-322-8228. Individuals may also directly contact the three major credit reporting bureaus listed below to request a free copy of their credit report.

Consumers have the right to place an initial or extended "fraud alert" on a credit file at no cost. An initial fraud alert is a one-year alert that is placed on a consumer's credit file. Upon seeing a fraud alert display on a consumer's credit file, a business is required to take steps to verify the consumer's identity before extending new credit. If an individual is the victim of identity theft, they are entitled to an extended fraud alert, which is a fraud alert lasting seven years. Should they wish to place a fraud alert, they may contact any one of the three major credit reporting bureaus listed below.

As an alternative to a fraud alert, consumers have the right to place a "credit freeze" on a credit report, which will prohibit a credit bureau from releasing information in the credit report without the consumer's express authorization. The credit freeze is designed to prevent credit, loans, and services from being approved in an individual's name without their consent. However, individuals should be aware that using a credit freeze to take control over who gets access to the personal and financial information in their credit report may delay, interfere with, or prohibit the timely approval of any subsequent request or application they make regarding a new loan, credit, mortgage, or any other account involving the extension of credit. Pursuant to federal law, an individual cannot be charged to place or lift a credit freeze on their credit report. To request a security freeze, individuals will need to provide the following information:

Full name (including middle initial, as well as Jr., Sr., II, III, etc.); Social Security number; Date of birth; Addresses for the prior two to five years; Proof of current address, such as a current utility bill or telephone bill; A legible photocopy of a government-issued identification card (state driver's license or ID card, etc.); and A copy of either the police report, investigative report, or complaint to a law enforcement agency concerning identity theft if they are a victim of identity theft.

Should individuals wish to place a credit freeze, they may contact the three major credit reporting bureaus listed below:

Equifax Experian TransUnion https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/ https://www.experian.com/help/ https://www.transunion.com/credit-help 1-888-298-0045 1-888-397-3742 1-833-395-6938 Equifax Fraud Alert, P.O. Box 105069 Atlanta, GA 30348-5069 Experian Fraud Alert, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013 TransUnion Fraud Alert, P.O. Box 2000, Chester, PA 19016 Equifax Credit Freeze, P.O. Box 105788 Atlanta, GA 30348-5788 Experian Credit Freeze, P.O. Box 9554, Allen, TX 75013 TransUnion Credit Freeze, P.O. Box 160, Woodlyn, PA 19094

Additional Information

Individuals may further educate themselves regarding identity theft, fraud alerts, credit freezes, and the steps they can take to protect their personal information by contacting the consumer reporting bureaus, the Federal Trade Commission, or their state Attorney General.

The Federal Trade Commission may be reached at: 600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20580; www.identitytheft.gov ; 1-877-ID-THEFT (1-877-438-4338); and TTY: 1-866-653-4261. The Federal Trade Commission also encourages those who discover that their information has been misused to file a complaint with it. Individuals can obtain further information on how to file such a complaint by way of the contact information listed above. Individuals have the right to file a police report if they ever experience identity theft or fraud. Please note that in order to file a report with law enforcement for identity theft, individuals will likely need to provide some proof that they have been a victim. Instances of known or suspected identity theft should also be reported to law enforcement and their state Attorney General. This notice has not been delayed by law enforcement.

SOURCE Samaritan Daytop Village, Inc.
HAMILTON, Bermuda, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Seadrill Limited ("Seadrill" or "the Company") (OSE:SDRL, OTCPK:SDRLF) announces that its Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan") has been confirmed by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas. Earlier this month, the Plan received overwhelming support from the Company's stakeholders.

Following the Court's approval of the Plan, Seadrill is targeting an exit of Chapter 11 proceedings in approximately 60 days. This is subject to certain customary conditions, including certain antitrust approvals.

The Plan raises $350 million in new financing and reduces the Company's existing liabilities by $4.9 billion, while leaving employee, customer, and trade claims unaffected. Existing shareholders will see their holding in the post emergence entity decrease to 0.25%.

Commenting today, Stuart Jackson, Seadrill Chief Executive Officer, said: "Confirmation of the Plan by the Court is a watershed moment for Seadrill and one we should celebrate as we move into the final stages to emerge from Chapter 11. Achieving this milestone would not be possible without the collective efforts of our employees, customers, partners, suppliers, creditors and shareholders. The continued support from this broad Seadrill community is one of our greatest assets and will be critical to the success of our next chapter as we reinforce our position as a market leader.

"With emergence around the end of the year, we stand alongside our offshore drilling peers focused on safe and efficient delivery to our customers in an industry that continues to need to evolve. Seadrill's strong brand will ensure we maintain a leadership position in future developments."

Copies of the Plan and Disclosure Statement, as well as other information regarding the Company's chapter 11 cases, are available at the following website: https://cases.primeclerk.com/SeadrillLimited/.

About Seadrill

Seadrill is a leading offshore drilling contractor utilizing advanced technology to unlock oil and gas resources for clients across harsh and benign locations across the globe. Seadrill's high quality, technologically advanced fleet spans all asset classes allowing its experienced crews to conduct its operations from shallow to ultra-deep-water environments. The Company owns and/or operates 39 rigs, which includes drillships, jack-ups and semi-submersibles.

Seadrill is listed on the Oslo Brs and OTC Pink markets. For more information, visit https://www.seadrill.com/.

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This news release includes forward looking statements. Such statements are generally not historical in nature, and specifically include statements about the Company's plans, strategies, business prospects, changes and trends in its business, the markets in which it operates and its restructuring efforts. These statements are made based upon management's current plans, expectations, assumptions and beliefs concerning future events impacting the Company and therefore involve a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this news release. Consequently, no forward-looking statement can be guaranteed. When considering these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risks described from time to time in the Company's regulatory filings and periodical reporting. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for the Company to predict all of these factors. Further, the Company cannot assess the impact of each such factor on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to be materially different from those contained in any forward looking statement.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

CONTACT:

[email protected]

020 3745 4960

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

SOURCE Cision AB

Related Links

https://www.cision.com/


NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Lightning eMotors, Inc. ("Lightning eMotors" or the "Company") f/k/a GigCapital3, Inc. ("GigCapital3") (NYSE: ZEV; ZEV.WS) and certain of its officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the District of Colorado, and docketed under 21-cv-02774, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Lightning eMotors securities between May 7, 2021 and August 16, 2021, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants' violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the "Exchange Act") and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials.

If you are a shareholder who purchased publicly traded securities during the Class Period, you have until December 14, 2021 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com. To discuss this action, contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888.476.6529 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

Lightning eMotors designs, manufactures, and sells electric vehicles. The Company produces electric fleet medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, including delivery trucks, shuttle buses, passenger vans, chassis-cab models, and city transit buses.

Prior to its business combination with Lightning eMotors, as described below, GigCapital3 was a special purpose acquisition company, also known as a blank check company, incorporated for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, recapitalization, reorganization, or similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities.

On May 6, 2021, Lightning eMotors consummated a business combination (the "Business Combination") with Lightning Systems, Inc. ("Lightning Systems") pursuant to a certain Business Combination Agreement, dated as of December 10, 2020, by and among GigCapital3, Project Power Merger Sub, Inc, and Lightning Systems. In connection with the consummation of the Business Combination, the Company changed its name from GigCapital3, Inc. to Lightning eMotors, Inc. On May 7, 2021, the Company's common stock and warrants began trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbols "ZEV" and "ZEV.WS", respectively.

The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding the Company's business, operations, and compliance policies. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) the Company would record a substantially greater net loss per share in the second quarter of 2021 compared to the second quarter of 2020 and would pull its full year guidance for the remainder of 2021; (ii) accordingly, the Company materially overstated its financial position and/or prospects; and (iii) as a result, the Company's public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times.

On August 16, 2021, post-market, Lightning eMotors announced the Company's financial results for the second quarter of 2021, including a net loss per share of $0.79 compared to a loss of $0.10 in the second quarter of 2020. The Company also pulled its full year financial guidance for the remainder of 2021, just days after announcing a multi-year agreement with Forest River, a Berkshire Hathaway company.

On this news, Lightning eMotors's stock price fell $1.63 per share, or 16.93%, to close at $8.00 per share on August 17, 2021.

The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Paris, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP

Related Links

www.pomerantzlaw.com


Tao most recently served as the Vice President of Marketing and Business development for Highpower International Inc. As a Silicon Valley veteran, Tao has successfully grown international startups into >$100 million/year businesses by cultivating mutually beneficial partnerships.

"Ronnie has a proven track record of strategic global business development success across Fortune 500 companies to small businesses," said Kang Sun, Amprius CEO. "His wealth of experience across multiple markets will help us bring our revolutionary battery technology to more industries. We're glad to have him join us as we work toward substantially improving the performance of electric vehicles, aircraft, drones, and military wearables around the world."

By adding marketing and business expertise to its leadership team, Amprius positions itself to capitalize on the increase in commercial opportunities from its Silicon Nanowire anode battery platform. The company was recently recognized by Airbus Defense and Space as the most innovative supplier in 2021, awarded the U.S. Army's Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO) contract, and announced Sandra Wallach as its Chief Financial Officer in September.

"I am proud to join Amprius Technologies and contribute to the company's goal of enabling unprecedented product performance through our industry-disrupting Silicon Nanowire technology," said Tao. "Once known as the best kept secret in the battery industry, I look forward to bringing Amprius Technologies into the spotlight through customer and reputable 3rd party validation."

To learn more, visit amprius.com

About Amprius Technologies

Amprius Technologies, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of high-energy and high-capacity lithium-ion batteries producing the industry's highest energy density cells. The company's corporate headquarters is in Fremont, California where it maintains an R&D lab and a pilot manufacturing facility for the fabrication of silicon nanowire anodes and lithium ion cells.

SOURCE Amprius Technologies

Related Links

http://www.amprius.com/


The market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period. Acuity Brands Inc., American Tower Corp., Cree Inc., General Electric Co., Hubbell Inc., Siemens AG, Signify NV, Telensa Ltd., Wipro Ltd., and Zumtobel Group AG are some of the major market participants. The Smart pole enables multiple functionalities, the rise in urban population and the increase in air pollution will offer immense growth opportunities. However, the high costs associated with smart poles will hamper the market growth.

Smart Pole Market 2020-2024: Segmentation

Type

Retrofit Installations



New Installations

Geographic

North America



Europe



APAC



MEA



South America

Smart Pole Market 2020-2024: Vendor Analysis and Scope

To help businesses improve their market position, the smart pole market provides a detailed analysis of around 25 vendors operating in the market. 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.

The report also covers the following areas:

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Smart Pole Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2020-2024

Detailed information on factors that will assist smart pole market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the smart pole market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the smart pole market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of smart pole market vendors

Related Reports:

Smart Office Solutions Market - The global smart office solutions market size has the potential to grow by USD 24.15 billion during 2020-2024. Download a free sample report now!



Smart Tracker Market -The smart tracker market size has the potential to grow by USD 467.53 million during 2020-2024, and the market's growth momentum will accelerate during the forecast period. Download a free sample report now!

Smart Pole Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2019 Forecast period 2020-2024 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 19% Market growth 2020-2024 USD 7.97 billion Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 19.01 Regional analysis North America, Europe, APAC, MEA, and South America Performing market contribution North America at 32% Key consumer countries US, China, France, Spain, and Canada Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Acuity Brands Inc., American Tower Corp., Cree Inc., General Electric Co., Hubbell Inc., Siemens AG, Signify NV, Telensa Ltd., Wipro Ltd., and Zumtobel Group AG Market Dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

Download a free sample now to uncover highlights deployed by companies of the smart pole market.

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide 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
WINTER HAVEN, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SouthState Bank has added nine veteran bankers across the Southeast with specialties in commercial lending, including middle market banking and commercial real estate, to its expanding Commercial Banking team.

"We are focused on being the employer of choice in the Southeast region, and we are incredibly pleased these top-tier bankers have elected to expand their careers with our team as we continue to grow the bank," said Greg Lapointe, chief banking officer.

SouthState Bank has added 9 veteran bankers across the Southeast to its expanding Commercial Banking team.

The following bankers have joined the SouthState team:

Will Randall  middle market banker, Charlotte, North Carolina  joins SouthState after having spent the past nine years in relationship management at JPMorgan Chase. Randall has excelled in middle market banking in the Charlotte region and has deep relationships with a diverse group of clients across the Carolinas.

Ruben Pedron  commercial real estate banker, South Florida  has more than 25 years of lending experience in commercial real estate, in addition to five years of experience in Commercial & Industrial (C&I) lending. He comes to the role from Truist, where he oversaw a portfolio with loan commitments up to $1.5 billion.

Will Monday  commercial banker, Charlotte, North Carolina  has spent the past eight years in business and commercial banking with Truist. Monday brings a strong Commercial and Industrial focus to the role, as well as a diverse network in the Charlotte region.

Brit Swanson  commercial banker, Charleston, South Carolina  has more than 13 years of experience with Banc of California and U.S. Bank, where he supported a diverse portfolio of small business and commercial loans. He will draw upon that experience to benefit clients in the South Carolina lowcountry.

John Leighton  commercial banker, Wilmington, North Carolina  comes to the position from Regions Bank, where he served the middle market sector. Leighton has extensive experience as a commercial lender in eastern North Carolina, with a career spanning more than 26 years.

Luis Martinez  commercial banker, Anderson, South Carolina  brings more than a decade of banking experience with Wells Fargo and TD Bank to SouthState. Martinez has served as the chair of Minorities in Leadership and was also named to the "Top 20 Under 40" by the Anderson Independent Mail.

Trex Bolick  commercial banker, Augusta, Georgia  comes to the position from Bank of America, where he spent four years supporting the bank's Southeast middle market and restaurant finance sectors, including screening, structuring and underwriting transactions.

Brian Kinnear  commercial real estate banker, Richmond, Virginia  brings more than 17 years of experience, including significant commercial real estate lending expertise gained in major markets throughout the mid-Atlantic States and Northeast region during his tenure with People's United Bank and M&T Bank.

Stephen Roberts  commercial banker, Hartwell/Anderson/Greenwood, South Carolina  brings 10 years of experience in banking with BB&T, in addition to seven years of experience as Chief Operating Officer for an Anderson, South Carolina business to the role. Roberts is also a veteran, having served as a petty officer in the U.S. Navy.

SouthState Corporation (NASDAQ: SSB) is a financial services company headquartered in Winter Haven, Florida. SouthState Bank, N.A., the company's nationally chartered bank subsidiary, provides consumer, commercial, mortgage and wealth management solutions to more than one million customers throughout Florida, Alabama, Georgia, the Carolinas and Virginia. The bank also serves clients coast to coast through its correspondent banking division. Additional information is available at SouthStateBank.com.

SOURCE South State Bank N.A.

Related Links

www.southstatebank.com


TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Minimally invasive image-guided therapy start-up, SpinaFX Medical Inc. (SpinaFX) is pleased to announce the signing of a commercialization contract manufacturing agreement with StarFish Product Engineering Inc. ("StarFish Medical"), Canada's largest medical device design, development, and manufacturing services organization.

"SpinaFX is very pleased to welcome StarFish to the SpinaFX team," commented John Soloninka, SpinaFX's Chief Operating Officer. "We ran a rigorous process comparing four of the top, highly-recommended medical device design, commercialization and contract manufacturing organizations from across the US and Canada. StarFish Medical's deep skills and experience, facilities, customer reviews, and willingness to intimately customize and integrate their services with our operations, won the day. The strategic alignment between the companies is excellent!"

StarFish Medical is Canada's leading medical device design, development, commercialization and contract manufacturing company with ISO 13485 certified engineering and finished manufacturing services. StarFish has partnered with many successful medical device companies to create new innovative technologies across several medical specialties.

Scott Philips, CEO or StarFish commented: "We measure our success through the value we help our clients generate for patients, providers, payers and their shareholders. We select clients that we believe will contribute to our "100x100" objective: 100 clients with over $100M in market capitalization. SpinaFX's minimally-invasive image-guided procedure promises to reduce the time, cost and complexity of spine surgery for patients with low back pain, one of the largest and most costly cohorts of patients worldwide. This is an extremely important goal, and StarFish is committed to helping SpinaFX travel as far and efficiently on their trajectory as possible."

"I was very impressed with the quality of responses we received from all competing vendors during our selection process," commented Jeff Cambra, SpinaFX's Chief Executive Officer. "With StarFish, we not only see deep skills, and experience in design, quality, regulatory, and manufacturing optimization, but also their strategic business orientation...ensuring that our product lifecycle jointly optimizes clinical, business, financing and shareholder outcomes. With much of the manufacturing to occur in StarFish's north-west Toronto facility, our organizations will be able to work very closely together. We are excited to transfer manufacturing to StarfFish, and to aggressively pursue our rollout into Canada, EU, FDA and beyond."

About the SpinaFX Medical

Headquartered in Ontario, Canada, SpinaFX is a medical device company bringing innovative, minimally invasive image-guided treatments to patients with back pain due to herniated discs. Our patented technology provides surgeons an earlier alternative to conventional surgery, using a minimally invasive technique to deliver a controlled Oxygen formulation to the affected disc, safely reducing the herniation and inflammation causing pain. SpinaFX's Triojection product was previously CE Marked under MDD and is undergoing re-certification under MDR. Triojection is not yet approved for sale in the North America, the UK or the EU.

About StarFish Medical

StarFish Medical provides award-winning design, development, commercialization, and flexible manufacturing outsourcing services 100% dedicated to the medical device and life science marketplace. StarFish Medical partners with innovative companies to create and manufacture breakthrough products for a full range of medical specialty areas including: Digital Health, Cardiovascular, Neurology, Urology, Gastroenterology, Otology, Ophthalmology, and In-Vitro Diagnostics. StarFish Medical's technical expertise includes electronics, mechanical, software/firmware systems engineering, in addition to industrial design and human factors. Regulatory Affairs (RA) and Quality Assurance (QA) consultants at StarFish Medical provide regulatory assistance for FDA, CE Mark and Health Canada submissions. Services include QA support for setting up QMS for start-up companies with implementation at the client's site, and assisting with ISO 13485 certification audits.

Website: www.starfishmedical.com

Forward looking Statement

This news release contains predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance, referred to herein as "forward-looking statements", which are made as of the date of this news release or as of the effective date of information described in this release, as applicable. The forward-looking statements address such anticipated events or occurrences which may include economic factors, industry trends, market demand, and corporate performance and profitability. Forward-looking statements are often identified through words or expressions including "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "envisages", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "can", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions).

All forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by, and information currently available to SpinaFX's management team. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. We caution any person reviewing this news release not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as a number of important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates assumptions and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements.

Neither SpinaFX nor its representatives undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by SpinaFX or its representatives or on behalf of either of them, except as may be required by law.

SOURCE Spinafx medical inc
BATON ROUGE, La., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC) has announced an ambitious new initiative in collaboration with Steady to verify income in real time and accelerate the delivery of pandemic and disaster unemployment compensation to 1099 and hourly workers, who now comprise an estimated 58.1 percent of the national working population.

In the weeks since the program's launch, hundreds of workers in the state have already signed up to verify their income through Steady, which will help them secure easier, faster access to unemployment benefits. In 2020, Louisiana processed an unprecedented number of UI claims in response to the COVID-19 recession, resulting in a total of $7.1 billion in benefits payments, according to a report from NASWA.

"This pandemic is not over and during the height of it there were a lot of people in need. Our goal is to make sure that everyone who is eligible to get this extra money does just that," said LWC Secretary Ava Cates. "If you think you may qualify, you need to act fast because the November 6 deadline to apply is quickly approaching."

Steady's platform, which is already used by nearly 4 million workers, now provides governments with an alternative to the labor intensive, manual process of verifying income for 1099 and hourly workers, who often receive income from multiple sources throughout the year. Earlier this year, Steady launched its Income Passport product to help state workforce agencies increase payment accuracy and promptness and make more informed policy decisions to support this critical sector of the workforce.

"As the U.S. economy charts a path to recovery, it's more important than ever that we ensure the millions of 1099 workers and mixed-earners aren't left behind," said Adam Roseman, CEO and Co-founder of Steady. "By helping workers statewide access the benefits they deserve, Louisiana is setting an example for other states seeking to not only support the growth of their economiesbut also help their residents access sustainable incomes."

Steady is authorized to provide cloud services through NASPO's procurement vehicle, and qualified to work through SHI. For more information, please visit www.incomepassport.steadyapp.com .

About Steady

Steady is the leading income intelligence platform for America's hourly and 1099 workers. We remove the barriers to earn by harnessing AI and the insights from nearly 4 million workers. Our income intelligence supports government leaders who design programs that are informed by earning trends and empowers workers. We are the only organization that can deliver income transparency and help Americans earn more and thrive in an increasingly complex economy.

SOURCE Steady
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Sony Pictures Television (SPT) and SurvivorNetTV today announced that the award-winning series 'The Big C,' starring Emmy-winning actress Laura Linney, will be available free on the streaming platform.

SurvivorNetTV , the first and only linear TV network from a health information provider, will stream the show beginning Jan. 1 and offer all four seasons through video-on-demand.

Survivor Net

'The Big C,' which aired on Showtime for four seasons beginning in 2010, stars Laura Linney as Cathy Jamison, a high school teacher, wife and mother in suburban Minneapolis who is diagnosed with melanoma. It chronicles her relationships as she copes with her new reality and finds a renewed freedom in her life.

"As a leading digital health platform, we are continually investing to give our community more ways to access vital treatment information and stories that serve as a form of narrative medicine," said SurvivorNet CEO Steve Alperin. "For our linear TV channel, we chose 'The Big C' as our first foray into scripted narrative because it beautifully uses comedy to provide balance with the challenging subject of Laura Linney's character and her personal battle with melanoma. It's something we think many in our survivor community can relate to, find comfort in - and maybe even have a few laughs."

Throughout the four seasons, Linney's character, a suburban Minneapolis mother and school teacher, works through a vast array of emotions both in dealing with her diagnosis and in communicating it to her loved ones. Featuring outstanding writing and inspired performances from Linney, Oliver Platt, Gabriel Basso, John Benjamin Hickey, Phyllis Somerville and Gabourey Sidibe - as well as guest stars such as Idris Elba, Cynthia Nixon and many more - Linney was honored with both Emmy and Golden Globe awards for her performance.

Nearly 2 million people a month watch SNTV, which is available 24/7 on all major platforms, including Apple TV, Amazon Prime, Roku and others, as well as streaming on telemedicine platforms, doctors' offices, in hospital waiting rooms, and more.

The streaming service offers documentaries, interviews with cancer survivors, advocates, and inspirational programming about resilience and hope. 'The Big C' will be the first fictional series to air on SurvivorNetTV.

"This show is a perfect fit for our audience because, while it depicts a woman who has cancer, the disease does not define her life. It is a story about relationships and the ways that people can connect with each other in the face of the numerous challenges life throws our way," Alperin added.

About SurvivorNet:

SurvivorNet is the country's leading media company for cancer information. The company has democratized access to the world's leading cancer experts, helping millions of Americans make better decisions about their care. SurvivorNet's resources are built in collaboration with the country's leading cancer centers. The company's daily news operation is syndicated widely and serves as an important source of information for millions of Americans every month. SurvivorNet was founded by Steve Alperin.

"Emmy" is the registered trademark of ATAS/NATAS.

"Golden Globe" is the registered trademark and service mark of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.

Media Contact:

Jason Fink

Mark Allen & Co.

[email protected]

(917) 495-8639

SOURCE Survivor Net
BASEL, Switzerland, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Synendos Therapeutics (Synendos), a biopharmaceutical company focused on restoring the natural functioning of the endocannabinoid system to treat Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders, today announces the appointment of well renowned CNS experts to form its Scientific Advisory Board (SAB).

Synendos is developing first-in-class inhibitors that modulate a newly identified drug target in the body's endocannabinoid system, a key neuromodulator system in the CNS, enabling restoration of endogenous cannabinoid (endocannabinoids) levels that are dysregulated in certain pathological conditions. The newly formed SAB will guide and support Synendos as it continues to develop its novel small molecules and identify applications across multiple CNS indications.

The Company announced a Series A financing raising CHF 20 million in November 2020 which was extended to CHF 24 million in April 2021. Synendos' preclinical program is on track with proceeds from the financing being used to complete preclinical development and advance Synendos' lead drug candidate SYT-510 through safety and proof-of-concept clinical studies in relevant and well-defined disease indications. Synendos is currently undertaking the necessary package of work in support of an Investigational New Drug (IND) and Clinical Trial Application (CTA) filing to support these clinical studies. The Company has recently expanded its team with three relevant functions: Head of Preclinical and Translational Neuropharmacology; Head of Translational Medicine; and Product Development Manager.

Commenting on the Scientific Advisory Board, Dr. Andrea Chicca, Co-founder and CEO of Synendos Therapeutics, said:

"The formation of a Scientific Advisory Board marks a significant step for Synendos. We are delighted to have brought together a group of highly accomplished and experienced individuals whose knowledge and expertise will provide assured guidance as we advance our novel technology, targeting the brain's natural endocannabinoid system, to address unmet needs in the treatment of anxiety, mood and stress-related disorders."

The members of Synendos' Scientific Advisory Board are:

Professor Karl-Heinz Altmann is a Professor of Pharmaceutical Biology and Chairman of the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) in Zurich. Karl-Heinz is a co-founder of Tolremo Therapeutics and serves on a number of scientific advisory boards and as consultant to various pharmaceutical companies. He was Project Leader, Senior Chemistry Expert and Global Head of Chemistry at the Novartis Institutes for Bio Medical Research from 1997 to 2003. He was awarded the Novartis Leading Scientist award in 1997 and the Paul-Ehrlich Prize (Chemistry) of the Societe de Chimie Therapeutique, France, in 2014. Karl-Heinz has been an academic collaborator on SERI development (1st generation).

Professor Anahita Bassir Nia is an Addiction Psychiatrist and Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Yale School of Medicine, Connecticut, USA. Anahita's research is mainly focused on the endocannabinoid system in relation to stress, trauma and substance use disorders. She is associated with the National Centers for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder in the USA, and is a member of the American Academy of Addiction Psychiatry (Cannabis Interest Committee); the American Society of Clinical Psychopharmacology; the Society of Biological Psychiatry; and the American Psychiatric Association.

Dr. Graeme Bilbe is involved in advisory roles to public health institutions, universities and commercial organizations. He is former Research and Development Director and current Scientific Advisor at the Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi), an international non-profit organisation developing safe, effective and affordable treatments for the most neglected patients. He was Global Head of Neuroscience Discovery at Novartis where he was tasked with the discovery and early development of proof-of-concept of novel treatments for brain diseases. He served as Head of Research for the Neuroscience Franchise at Novartis and chaired the Neuroscience Disease Area Decision Board where, during his leadership, new therapies for Alzheimer's disease and an orally-active drug for multiple sclerosis, Gilenya, were registered. Graeme has great experience as Chairman of Scientific Advisory Boards for biotechnology companies, charities, funding agencies and university/company consortia.

Professor Jurg Gertsch is Deputy and Co-director of the Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine at the University of Bern and Full Professor of Biochemistry and Pharmaceutical Biology. Instrumental in the design and development of SERIs, he co-founded Synendos and identified the SERIs drug target. Jurg is on the management board of NCCR TransCure, where he promotes Knowledge and Technology Transfer (KTT) activities.

Professor Kirsten Muller-Vahl is Professor of Psychiatry at the Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the Hannover Medical School, Germany (MHH). A specialist in both neurology and adult psychiatry, she has been Head of the Tourette's Syndrome (TS) outpatient department at MHH since 1995. Kirsten is President of the European Society of the Study of Tourette's Syndrome (ESSTS) and Chairwoman of both the National German Association for Cannabinoid Medicine (ACM) and the International Association for Cannabinoid Medicines (IACM). Kirsten has published more than 160 scientific articles and is a prolific author of guidelines for the treatment of TS in both the EU and US. She has been involved in all major TS clinical trials with cannabis, cannabinoids, and other endocannabinoid system modulators.

Synendos will be attending BIO-Europe delivered digitally from 25-28 October 2021.

About Synendos Therapeutics

Synendos Therapeutics is a biopharmaceutical company developing a new class of small molecules aimed at restoring the natural functioning of the endocannabinoid system in the brain with the potential for treating a wide range of Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders. Incorporated in April 2019, Synendos Therapeutics was spun out of the University of Bern and the drug discovery consortium, NCCR TransCure. The Company's novel technology stems from 10 years of solid research on endocannabinoid biology and pharmacology carried out at the University of Bern by co-founders, Professor Jurg Gertsch and Dr. Andrea Chicca, and centres around the development of selective endocannabinoid reuptake inhibitors (SERIs). SERIs act by increasing the levels of endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) in a self-limiting mode of action, representing an innovative and potentially safer therapeutic approach to CNS disorders, associated with anxiety, mood and stress-related disorders, than is currently available. www.synendos.com Twitter @Synendos

About SERIs

SERIs are first-in-class endocannabinoid system modulators that mildly and selectively increase endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) levels by inhibiting a newly identified drug target. SERIs act with a self-limiting mechanism of action that enables a fine-tuned modulation of synaptic transmission in major neuronal circuits in the CNS. The new mode of action of SERIs represents an innovative and potentially safer therapeutic approach to CNS disorders associated with anxiety, mood.

SOURCE Synendos Therapeutics
The femtocells base station segment in the telecom network infrastructure market is predicted to witness 5% growth rate till 2027 led by the increasing demand for improved indoor network coverage in urban areas. The rising adoption of smart homes due to advancements in IoT technology is making network coverage essential in indoor locations. Femtocells are deployed in locations where there is a network backhaul or a location where backhaul can be developed without any difficulty or capital investment.

The integration & deployment service segment dominated more than 50% of the telecom network infrastructure market share in 2020. Integration & deployment services configure the settings of new network nodes that need to be rolled out in a wireless network and build a dynamic telecom infrastructure. These services also maintain resiliency, high performance, and high availability with a secure, always-on, scalable, and multi-technology network across businesses. It also helps enterprises to gain a significant Return on Investment (ROI) through network planning & design facilitation, network infrastructure optimization, and multi-vendor network integration.

The telecom network infrastructure market for 3G technology segment will showcase substantial gains during the forecast period driven by the growing demand for internet services. The 3G technology is focused on providing high-speed data with a data rate of up to 14 Mbps, using packet switching. It uses a wide band wireless network that has a better signal quality compared to a 2G network. 3G uses the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) to provide a high data transfer speed and capacity.

The telecom operator end-user segment is poised to grow at a significant growth rate from 2021 to 2027. Telecom operators are focusing on improving their telecom infrastructures to meet the growing demands of cellular users. Operators are continuously upgrading their network infrastructures to match the high-speed data demand of consumers.

Europe telecom network Infrastructure market size will reach USD 25 billion by 2027 owing to the increasing demand for strong broadband connectivity across the region. Several regional enterprises are focusing on the development of innovative solutions through strategic partnerships. For instance, in October 2020, Airspan signed a partnership agreement with Siticom GmbH, a specialized network infrastructure company. Through this partnership, the companies delivered 5G wireless connectivity to the manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, and agricultural sectors in Germany.

Request for customization of this research report @

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Major players operating in the telecom network Infrastructure market are Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Nokia Networks, Ericsson, Ciena Corporation, Cisco Systems, Inc., Inc., and CommScope, Inc. Companies are focusing on offering RAN network solutions through partnerships.

Table of Contents (ToC) of the report:

Chapter 3 Telcom Network Infrastructure Market Insights

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Industry segmentation

3.3 COVID-19 impact

3.3.1 Impact by region

3.3.2 Impact by value chain

3.3.3 Impact by competitive landscape

3.4 Evolution of telecom network infrastructure

3.5 Telcom network infrastructure industry ecosystem analysis

3.5.1 Networking hardware providers

3.5.2 Networking software providers

3.5.3 Telecom service providers

3.5.4 System integrator

3.5.5 End-users

3.6 Technology & innovation landscape

3.6.1 Network as a service (NaaS)

3.6.2 Cloud Radio Access Network (C-RAN)

3.7 Investment portfolio

3.8 Regulatory landscape

3.9 Industry impact forces

3.9.1 Growth drivers

3.9.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges

3.10 Growth potential analysis

3.11 Porter's analysis

3.12 PESTEL analysis

Browse Complete Table of Contents (ToC) @

https://www.gminsights.com/toc/detail/telecom-network-infrastructure-market

About Global Market Insights Inc.

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SOURCE Global Market Insights Inc.
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Health Action (THA), a community-informed non-profit dedicated to providing access to culturally affirming, quality health services in a safe and supportive environment, will team up with Walgreens to open its first Dallas clinic within the Walgreens at 3802 Cedar Springs Road, beginning in early 2022. Kind Clinic, a program of THA, will offer sexual health services such as HIV testing and care, access to the HIV prevention medication PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), STI testing and treatment, and gender-affirming care.

"Our approach to care is about prioritizing kindness and eradicating stigma around sexual health," said Christopher Hamilton, chief executive officer of Texas Health Action. "By bringing together Kind Clinic's experienced team with Walgreens HIV-trained pharmacists at the same location, we are poised to offer services to help patients overcome the persistent barriers they face to effective sexual health and HIV care."

In 2019, Dallas County had the second highest number of people living with HIV as well as the second highest rate of new HIV diagnoses in the state.1 In the Dallas area, those living with HIV face persistent barriers to effective HIV care including stigma, prejudice and access to affordable services.2

"Walgreens has been supporting people living with and at-risk for HIV since the start of the epidemic 40 years ago, and is pleased to partner with well-known and trusted organizations like Texas Health Action to bring new HIV and sexual health services to the Dallas area," said Rick Fernandez, registered pharmacist and regional healthcare director for Greater Texas, Walgreens.

Kind Clinic Dallas  Oak Lawn will offer no-cost sexual health services to all members of the community regardless of race, creed, gender identity and expression, immigration status, sexual orientation or ability to pay. The clinic will also employ patient advocates who have expertise in serving the LGBTQIA+ community and people living with HIV. These advocates work with eligible patients to assist them in accessing affordable medications.

Kind Clinic Dallas will become THA's fourth clinic in the state and the first Kind Clinic to operate within a Walgreens retail location. The organization currently operates clinics in Austin and San Antonio. For more information about Kind Clinic or to make an appointment, visit www.KindClinic.org.

About Texas Health Action

Texas Health Action (THA) is a community informed 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to culturally affirming, quality health services in a safe and supportive environment with an expertise in serving LGBTQIA+ people and people impacted by HIV. Since 2015, Texas Health Action has provided health services without stigma or judgment and has empowered the community through outreach and education. Texas Health Action operates Kind Clinic, which provides sexual health services through locations across Central Texas; TeleKind, which provides sexual health services via virtual visits and at-home testing; and Waterloo Counseling Center, which provides behavioral health services in Austin. Texas Health Action is led by CEO Christopher Hamilton. For more information about Texas Health Action and its programs, please visit www.TexasHealthAction.org.

About Kind Clinic

Kind Clinic offers free sexual health services in a safe and supportive environment regardless of race, creed, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation or ability to pay. Founded in 2015 by community activists and volunteers, Kind Clinic is a national leader in innovative sexual health care that offers patients access to HIV prevention medication known as PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), HIV testing and care, STI testing and treatment, and gender-affirming care in Austin and San Antonio. Kind Clinic is a program of Texas Health Action, a 501(c)(3) community informed non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to culturally affirming, quality health services in a safe and supportive environment with an expertise in serving LGBTQIA+ people and people impacted by HIV. For more information about Kind Clinic, please call 1-833-WE-R-KIND (1-833-937-5463) or visit www.KindClinic.org.

1 The Texas HIV Surveillance Report: 2019 Annual Report. Texas Department of State Health Service. Texas Health and Human Services. https://dshs.texas.gov/hivstd/reports/HIVSurveillanceReport.pdf.

2 Dallas County: Dallas Eligible Metropolitan Area Integrated HIV Prevention and Care Plan. Dallas County Health and Human Services. https://www.dallascounty.org/Assets/uploads/docs/rwpc/CDC_HRSA_Integrated_HIV_Prevention_and_Care_Plan_FINAL.pdf.

Texas Health Action:

Kat Griffith or Kelsey Stevens

[email protected] or [email protected]

Elizabeth Christian Public Relations

(512) 797-4002 or (512) 694-7003

SOURCE Texas Health Action

Related Links

http://www.TexasHealthAction.org


In his previous role as Executive Vice President of Master Planned Communities in the Houston Region, Mr. Melton was responsible for residential planning and development of HHC's three highly acclaimed MPCs in Texas: The Woodlands, Bridgeland and The Woodlands Hills.

The Woodlands was recently recognized as the country's #1 place to live by Niche.com. Bridgeland, which started selling homesites in 2006, is currently a top-selling master planned community in Texas and in the nation, following record-breaking home sales in the first half of 2020. Under Mr. Melton's tenure, Bridgeland has been honored as Master Planned Community of the Year by the Greater Houston Business Association and has garnered Howard Hughes the inaugural 2020 Vanguard Award from Houston's Urban Land institute (ULI) for the development of Bridgeland's 140-acre recreational Josey Lake which integrates innovative design into the natural landscape and serves as a sustainable stormwater detention system. In addition, The Woodlands Hills, which opened in 2018, continues to receive recognition for its high standards of development and outstanding sales momentum.

"We are fortunate to have Heath's leadership and experience at the helm of our extraordinary new master planned community of Douglas Ranch," said David R. O'Reilly, Chief Executive Officer of The Howard Hughes Corporation. "Heath has been critical in The Howard Hughes Corporation's implementation of innovative technology, sustainable best practices, and environmental design. He has helped drive the incredible growth and success of our communities in the Texas region and is the ideal leader to oversee the creation of our nation's next great MPCand the emergence of Phoenix's West Valley as a dynamic regional hub."

"I am excited to return home to Phoenix and have the opportunity to lead Douglas Ranch and help HHC realize the vision for Arizona's newest community, which will be an industry leader in technology, innovation, and sustainability," said Melton. "I am looking forward to working with the city of Buckeye, the state of Arizona, and our partners at JDM and El Dorado to ensure the successful growth of this exceptional new community."

Prior to joining The Howard Hughes Corporation, Mr. Melton was Director of Land Development at Taylor Morrison Austin. He previously served as Development Manager for Sueba USA, overseeing their single- and multi-family residential business.

Mr. Melton is on the board of directors of the Greater Houston Builders Association, Cy-Fair Chamber of Commerce, Cy-Fair Education Foundation, Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, Katy Economic Development Council, and Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) Gulf Coast Chapter. He is chair of the West Houston Association, as well as an active member of the Urban Land Institute's (ULI) national Community Development Council and the Memorial Hermann Cypress Advisory Committee.

Mr. Melton is a graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, earning a Bachelor of Science in business management and systems engineering. He served in the U.S. Army as a field artillery officer for five years, earning an Army Commendation Medal with Valor Device and Bronze Star.

About The Howard Hughes Corporation

The Howard Hughes Corporation owns, manages and develops commercial, residential and mixed-use real estate throughout the U.S. Its award-winning assets include the country's preeminent portfolio of master planned communities, as well as operating properties and development opportunities including: the Seaport in New York City; Downtown Columbia, Maryland; The Woodlands, The Woodlands Hills, and Bridgeland in the Greater Houston, Texas area; Summerlin, Las Vegas; Ward Village in Honolulu; and Douglas Ranch in Phoenix. The Howard Hughes Corporation's portfolio is strategically positioned to meet and accelerate development based on market demand, resulting in one of the strongest real estate platforms in the country. Dedicated to innovative placemaking, the company is recognized for its ongoing commitment to design excellence and to the cultural life of its communities. The Howard Hughes Corporation is traded on the New York Stock Exchange as HHC. For additional information visit www.howardhughes.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Statements made in this press release that are not historical facts, including statements accompanied by words such as "will," "believe," "expect," "enables," "realize," "plan," "intend," "assume," "transform" and other words of similar expression, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's expectations, estimates, assumptions, and projections as of the date of this release and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in these statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially are set forth as risk factors in The Howard Hughes Corporation's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Quarterly and Annual Reports. The Howard Hughes Corporation cautions you not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements contained in this release. The Howard Hughes Corporation does not undertake any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements to reflect future events, information or circumstances that arise after the date of this release.

The Howard Hughes Corporation

Cristina Carlson, 646-822-6910

Senior Vice President, Head of Corporate Communications

[email protected]

For HHC Investor Relations

John Saxon, 281-929-7808

Investor Relations Associate

[email protected]

Correne S. Loeffler, 281-929-7787

Chief Financial Officer

[email protected]

SOURCE The Howard Hughes Corporation

Related Links

http://www.howardhughes.com


DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Angling & Hunting Equipment Market Research Report by Product, Distribution, and State - United States Forecast to 2026 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market size was estimated at USD 83.94 million in 2020, is expected to reach USD 88.39 million in 2021, and projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.38% reaching USD 121.66 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.

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 Angling & Hunting Equipment 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.



Competitive Scenario

The Competitive Scenario provides an outlook analysis of the various business growth strategies adopted by the vendors. The news covered in this section deliver valuable thoughts at the different stage while keeping up-to-date with the business and engage stakeholders in the economic debate. The competitive scenario represents press releases or news of the companies categorized into Merger & Acquisition, Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership, New Product Launch & Enhancement, Investment & Funding, and Award, Recognition, & Expansion. All the news collected help vendor to understand the gaps in the marketplace and competitor's strength and weakness thereby, providing insights to enhance product and service.



Company Usability Profiles

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market, including Costa Del Mar Inc., Duluth Holdings Inc., Johnson Outdoors Inc., Maver UK Ltd., Newell Brands Inc., Okuma Fishing Tackle Co., Ltd., Pradco Outdoor Brands Inc., Pure Fishing, Inc., Rather Outdoors, LLC, Sea Master Enterprise Co., Ltd., The Orvis Company Inc., Tica Fishing Tackle, and W.C. Bradley Co.



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 United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the United States Angling & Hunting Equipment Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the United States Angling & Hunting Equipment 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 Dynamics

5.1. Introduction

5.2. Drivers

5.3. Restraints

5.4. Opportunities

5.5. Challenges



6. Angling & Hunting Equipment Market, by Product

6.1. Introduction

6.2. Accessories

6.3. Archery

6.4. ATV Accessories

6.5. Cameras & Accessories

6.6. Clothing

6.7. Decoys

6.8. Fishing Rods & Reels

6.9. Game Calls

6.10. Gun Accessories, Maintenance & Storage

6.11. Hearing Protection, Optics &Scopes

6.12. Knives & Tools

6.13. Lures & Terminal Trackers

6.14. Packs & Bag Packs

6.15. Tree Stands



7. Angling & Hunting Equipment Market, by Distribution

7.1. Introduction

7.2. Offline

7.3. Online



8. California Angling & Hunting Equipment Market



9. Florida Angling & Hunting Equipment Market



10. Illinois Angling & Hunting Equipment Market



11. New York Angling & Hunting Equipment Market



12. Ohio Angling & Hunting Equipment Market



13. Pennsylvania Angling & Hunting Equipment Market



14. Texas Angling & Hunting Equipment Market



15. Competitive Landscape

15.1. FPNV Positioning Matrix

15.1.1. Quadrants

15.1.2. Business Strategy

15.1.3. Product Satisfaction

15.2. Market Ranking Analysis

15.3. Market Share Analysis, by Key Player

15.4. Competitive Scenario

15.4.1. Merger & Acquisition

15.4.2. Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership

15.4.3. New Product Launch & Enhancement

15.4.4. Investment & Funding

15.4.5. Award, Recognition, & Expansion



16. Company Usability Profiles

16.1. Costa Del Mar Inc.

16.2. Duluth Holdings Inc.

16.3. Johnson Outdoors Inc.

16.4. Maver UK Ltd.

16.5. Newell Brands Inc.

16.6. Okuma Fishing Tackle Co., Ltd.

16.7. Pradco Outdoor Brands Inc.

16.8. Pure Fishing, Inc.

16.9. Rather Outdoors, LLC

16.10. Sea Master Enterprise Co., Ltd.

16.11. The Orvis Company Inc.

16.12. Tica Fishing Tackle

16.13. W.C. Bradley Co.



17. Appendix



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/z46wqn

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood, Senior Manager

[email protected]



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SOURCE Research and Markets

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MELBOURNE, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Tomahawk Robotics, the leading innovator of common control solutions, has been awarded a Direct to Phase II SBIR contract by AFWERX to provide Universal Robotic Control for Integrated Base Defense.

"Our warfighters will now be able to leverage cutting edge unmanned systems technology" - Brad Truesdell, CEO Tweet this Tomahawk Robotics will integrate multiple robotic platforms into the Kinesis ecosystem to allow both autonomous and manual multi-domain robotic control from a single, common controller.

Under this contract, Tomahawk Robotics will integrate multiple robotic platforms into the Kinesis ecosystem to allow both autonomous and manual multi-domain robotic control from a single, common controller. Additionally, video streams from the integrated unmanned systems (Ghost Robotics Vision 60, Skydio X2D, and DefendTex D40) will be used for object detection and recognition by leveraging Tomahawk Robotics' Kinesis AI capabilities at the tactical edge.

This solution will allow USAF Security Forces to automate Force Protection applications while ingesting and sharing intel across Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK), Advanced Battle Management System and Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) architectures.

Implementing AI-enabled universal robotic control into the Base Defense Operations Center architecture will allow Defender airmen to remotely identify and respond to potential threats in a timely and effective manner, reducing the manpower required to perform these tasks and the potential risk to operators who would otherwise have to perform these tasks manually.

"This capability will be truly remarkable and will posture our warfighters for tomorrow's fight today," said Maj Jordan Criss, 325th Security Forces Squadron Commander. "We are humbled for this opportunity to work with these outstanding mission partners for the betterment of our collective Force Protection efforts within the Department of Defense."

"This award leverages company and customer investments from the USMC, SOCOM and OSD, and will provide a major step forward in Force Protection for USAF Defender personnel. Our warfighters will now be able to leverage cutting edge unmanned systems technology as well as AI for enhanced force protection and employ this capability across a range of operational environments," said Brad Truesdell, CEO of Tomahawk Robotics.

About Tomahawk Robotics

Tomahawk Robotics is the leading innovator of common control solutions that transform how humans and unmanned systems work together to make the world more safe and secure. From the battlefield to remote industrial sites, our products and technology safeguard users working under the most extreme and stressful conditions. Designed from the ground up with the user in mind, Kinesis is the only multidomain, cross-architecture, AI-enabled control system that unlocks intuitive interaction with remote environments from across the room or around the world. https://www.tomahawkrobotics.com

Contact:

Tracey Maslow

[email protected]

SOURCE Tomahawk Robotics

Related Links

https://www.tomahawkrobotics.com


BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Brian Dougherty, Managing Director in the Boston office of Compass and Head of the Private Brokerage division, announced earlier today that Betsy Cornell of Cohasset, MA has joined the top ranked real estate team as Director of the South Shore. Cornell is a top producing agent with commanding knowledge of the high-end market and brings a proven track record of delivering outstanding results for her clients throughout the Greater Boston region.

Nick Robert (left); Betsy Cornell (center); Brian Dougherty (right) Betsy Cornell

"We're very fortunate to have Betsy join our group as we grow to provide more coverage for our discerning clients. She shares our vision for relationship-based brokerage and is a strategic marketing expert of special properties," remarked Dougherty, who has been responsible for nearly $400 million in luxury sales throughout Boston, the South Shore and the Cape.

Born and raised in Hingham, Cornell spent the first fifteen years of her professional life as a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers and JPMorgan Chase where she managed audits of large multinational financial institutions and worked on the valuation of significant real estate portfolios. She graduated magna cum laude from Boston College in 2005 with a dual degree in accounting and marketing before earning her Masters in Accounting from BC's Carroll School of Management. After several years in New York City, Cornell returned to the South Shore to work alongside her mother Joy Cornell, a realtor with over 15 years experience. Cornell lives with her husband and 4 year old son in Cohasset and enjoys surfing and running in her elusive free time.

The Private Brokerage was founded in 2018 within Compass to provide accomplished individuals, families and their advisors with access to the most personalized, sophisticated and confidential real estate support available. From the elevated and far-reaching marketing of special properties to the thoughtful representation of buyers seeking hard to find off-market properties, the Private Brokerage operates as a boutique within the national powerhouse and leverages tremendous resources, concierge-like services and a close network of global real estate relationships to deliver outstanding results.

To learn more about The Private Brokerage, please call 617-217-1842 or email [email protected].

Media contact:

Lucy Pear, Director of Operations

314-719-6770

SOURCE The Private Brokerage
NEW YORK and SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- TransPerfect, the world's largest provider of language and technology solutions for global business, today announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Phil Shawe, and Chief Revenue Officer, Kevin Obarski, have officially signed off on property in Puerto Rico that will become the future home of TransPerfect's Management Learning Center.

The total investment of more than $30 million in the Puerto Rico-based facility signals the beginning of a new era for management training at TransPerfect. The center will be a hybrid of conference facilities and accommodations and will feature meeting space with state-of-the-art technology and connectivity. The primary goal of the center is to foster learning and team building in a retreat environment, making group training more frequent, personal, and effective.

The estimated project timeframe includes a Q1 2022 groundbreaking with a 12-month construction timeline. The company expects to hold its first meetings at the facility in 2023.

Paco Diaz of Luxury Collection Real Estate in San Juan served as the buyer's agent for the transaction with financing arranged through Oriental Bank and legal representation provided by Gilberto Maymi Perez.

Kevin Obarski, CRO at TransPerfect, remarked, "The strength of our culture is what defines TransPerfect. We've always invested heavily in face-to-face interactions between our employees, and those bonds are a big part of what has carried us to where we are today. This new facility takes that commitment to the next level."

TransPerfect President and CEO Phil Shawe added, "There is just no substitute for bringing the staff together and training in a group environment. Helping our people achieve their full potential is the foundation of TransPerfect's successand we look forward to hosting our team in the new Puerto Rico facility for years to come."

TransPerfect has grown 29% year-to-date in 2021, and recently surpassed the $1 billion mark in annual billed revenue. The company expects to hire hundreds of new employees in the years ahead, and the new learning center will support this growth. TransPerfect's Puerto Rico office has become a significant hub for technology and other operations, and the company is actively hiring in San Juan.

About TransPerfect

TransPerfect is the world's largest provider of language and technology solutions for global business. From offices in over 100 cities on six continents, TransPerfect offers a full range of services in 170+ languages to clients worldwide. More than 5,000 global organizations employ TransPerfect's GlobalLink technology to simplify management of multilingual content. With an unparalleled commitment to quality and client service, TransPerfect is fully ISO 9001 and ISO 17100 certified. TransPerfect has global headquarters in New York, with regional headquarters in London and Hong Kong. For more information, please visit our website at www.transperfect.com.

SOURCE TransPerfect

Related Links

http://www.transperfect.com


LOS ANGELES, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- UCLA Anderson Forecast, through a grant from Edison International, announced the launch of a new fellowship program aimed at inspiring and developing young economists from underserved communities.

The UCLA Anderson Forecast Fellows Program will officially launch in January 2022 and will initially award one-year fellowships to two undergraduate students currently enrolled at California State University, Dominguez Hills (CSUDH). The selection committee will consist of representatives from the Forecast and several departments and centers based at CSUDH.

The Forecast and CSUDH have created a comprehensive process to select and mentor the fellows. Over the course of the calendar year, CSUDH faculty and staff as well as Forecast economists will serve as sponsors and be paired with each fellow to provide a supportive environment to ensure their success. The sponsors will work with the fellows throughout the year on training, software, research progress and other aspects of the program to maximize the experience of the program.

The fellows will be invited and encouraged to attend selected MBA lectures in order to gain a better understanding of the overall graduate school experience. At the conclusion of the calendar year, each of the fellows will have completed a research paper, which will be published by the Forecast and featured at a quarterly conference held at UCLA Anderson School of Management.

"UCLA Anderson and the Anderson Forecast are extremely grateful to Edison International for funding this program," said Jerry Nickelsburg, director of the UCLA Anderson Forecast. "Their generosity will provide new paths for students from underserved communities, and we are excited to be part of that."

About UCLA Anderson Forecast

UCLA Anderson Forecast is one of the most widely watched and often-cited economic outlooks for California and the nation and was unique in predicting both the seriousness of the early-1990s downturn in California and the strength of the state's rebound since 1993. The Forecast was credited as the first major U.S. economic forecasting group to call the recession of 2001 and, in March 2020, it was the first to declare that the recession caused by the COVID-19 pandemic had already begun. Visit UCLA Anderson Forecast at uclaforecast.com.

About UCLA Anderson School of Management

UCLA Anderson School of Management is among the leading business schools in the world, with faculty members globally renowned for their teaching excellence and research in advancing management thinking. Located in Los Angeles, gateway to the growing economies of Latin America and Asia and a city that personifies innovation in a diverse range of endeavors, UCLA Anderson's MBA, Fully Employed MBA, Executive MBA, UCLA-NUS Executive MBA, Master of Financial Engineering, Master of Science in Business Analytics, doctoral and executive education programs embody the school's Think in the Next ethos. Annually, some 1,800 students are trained to be global leaders seeking the business models and community solutions of tomorrow. Visit UCLA Anderson School of Management at anderson.ucla.edu.

Follow us @uclaanderson

Media Contacts:

UCLA Anderson Forecast

Rebecca Trounson (310) 825-1348

[email protected]

Paul Feinberg (310) 794-1215

[email protected]

SOURCE UCLA Anderson Forecast

Related Links

https://www.anderson.ucla.edu/


Mesh Connectors Expand Sales Channels for Brand Looking to Grow Rapidly Amid Supply Chain Challenges

CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Venzee Technologies Inc. (TSXV: VENZ) (OTCQB: VENZF) ("Venzee'' or the "Company"), the artificial intelligence (AI) platform for product data, is pleased to announce a new revenue-generating contract with a California-based children's bag and accessories brand.

Initially, the brand purchased a single Mesh Connector to a retailer on the Venzee platform. The retailer serves the home goods and apparel sector through some 1,500 store locations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

Following their initial purchase, the brand engaged Venzee sales and contracted for additional retail channels in the home goods retail sector. Under the agreement, the client plans to activate a number of Venzee's Mesh Connectors over the next 12 months.

According to Chad Kaczmarek, Senior Director of Integrations at Venzee, "Our easy to use Mesh Connectors allowed this brand to sidestep the complexities of getting their products active and sold through a major retail chain. Because our AI-based platform is 80% more efficient than alternatives, this brand saves time, labor, and improves sales margin by using Venzee."

With more than 400 retail Mesh Connectors instantly available to brands, Venzee has become a revolutionary tool in the simplification and automation of syndication processes for consumer brands globally.

John Abrams, CEO of Venzee said, "We have begun to recognize a trend where brands start using a single Mesh Connector and quickly purchase more channels as they recognize the labor benefit our platform provides."

Mr. Abrams continued, "Brands and retailers today face unprecedented supply chain challenges. Our hyper-efficient Mesh Connectors give brands an important tool they need to efficiently manage their product data operations at scale and improve sales performance globally."

About Venzee Technologies, Inc.

Venzee (TSXV: VENZ) (OTCQB: VENZF) is the leading artificial intelligence platform for product data used by global brands to speed time to market and create competitive supply chain advantages. Venzee's intelligent platform automates inefficient last-mile retail processes with a frictionless, machine-driven solution for sending and receiving product data.

Venzee believes intelligent supply chain functionality is inevitable and will significantly benefit growers, makers, brands, sellers, regulators, and consumers. Venzee is building the foundation for a future where seamless, accurate, automated data flow simplifies processes, removes friction, and creates value for all those that rely on the myriad of data and information surrounding any product, anywhere.

Venzee unlocks shareholder value by carrying out its mission to create intelligent technology that removes friction from the global supply chain. Its Mesh Connector product disrupts and displaces inefficient manual processes in favor of integrated, machine-driven solutions.

To learn more about the Venzee platform, visit venzee.com

Twitter: @usevenzee

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/venzee-inc/

Podcast: https://www.venzee.com/resources/podcast

On Behalf of the Board,

Peter Montross

Chief Operating Officer

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the terms of the Offering, the completion of the Offering and the expected use of the net proceeds received by the Company. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". Forward-looking information 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 but not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, geopolitical and social uncertainties; and regulatory risks. Additional information about these assumptions and risks and uncertainties is contained under "Risk Factors and Uncertainties" in the Company's management's discussion and analysis for the year ended December 31, 2018, and the quarter ended August 29, 2019, which are available under the Company's SEDAR profile at www.sedar.com, and in other filings that the Company has made and may make with applicable securities authorities in the future.

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 forward-looking information contained in this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement.

The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Neither TSX-V nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX-V) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Venzee Technologies Inc.

Related Links

https://www.venzee.com/


TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Veterinary practices now have an easy way to monitor patient compliance with preventive care thanks to the Compliance Tracker , a new business intelligence tool from VetSuccess. This monthly subscription-based report highlights key metrics and provides critical insight into whether clients are following a practice's preventive care recommendations.

Thanks to a direct practice management software connection and proprietary mapping system, the data experts at VetSuccess are able to accurately report on veterinary practice patient compliance in eight key areas of preventive healthcare: annual physical exams, wellness bloodwork, heartworm testing, fecal testing, core vaccines, lifestyle vaccines, parasiticide compliance, and dental prophylaxis.

"The Compliance Tracker has been years in the making and is certainly a labor of love," says VetSuccess Managing Director Katie McClean. "We're proud to be able to put our veterinary data expertise to good use, giving practices a clear and easy way to monitor and take action on patient compliance."

Clear visuals and interactive filters allow veterinary practice managers and owners to drill into their compliance trends over time, plus track conversion rate by doctor for each wellness service.

Benchmarks allow practices to gain perspective and compare their performance with that of other area practices. Trendlines help practice's answer the question "Is this number good?" by looking at their practice's past performance. Four bonus appendices featuring client and non-compliant patient data make it easy for practices to take action to increase compliance.

According to former veterinary practice manager and current VetSuccess Product Manager, Sarah Susut, "The Compliance Tracker is one of those critical, time-saving reports that I wish I had when I was actively managing a busy practice."

Since 2011, VetSuccess has perfected the art and science of veterinary data analysis, delivering reliable, consistent, and easy-to-understand metrics for the veterinary profession. The data experts at VetSuccess simplify and normalize complex layers of practice management codes into clear, actionable data and metrics.

To learn more about VetSuccess and the Compliance Tracker , visit www.vetsuccess.com .

About VetSuccess

VetSuccess ( Vetsuccess.com ) provides practice performance reports, dashboards, and automated marketing solutions for veterinary practices and industry partners. As the industry's definitive data experts, VetSuccess makes sense of veterinary data and turns it into actionable information, metrics, and benchmarks. A subsidiary of Vetsource, VetSuccess harnesses the power of data to help veterinary practices and partners stay one step ahead of the curve.

Press contact:

Martin Traub-Werner

Founder (VetSuccess)

VP & GM, Data & Platform Technologies (Vetsource)

(866) 408-8554

[email protected]

SOURCE VetSuccess

Related Links

vetsuccess.com


SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Live, global video chat platform VIDSIG announced today it had signed a partnership agreement with the New York State PTA to provide live, one-to-one video chats with its hundreds of vetted undergrads from colleges and universities across the United States.

VIDSIG's platform facilitates conversations that aim to provide honest answers to questions from students and parents across the state to help make the challenging college process easier through ten-minute, live one-to-one video chats on VIDSIG.com or through VIDSIG's new app.

VIDSIG.com Connects Parents and High School Students with Current College Undergrads on its New App and Any Browser VIDSIG.com Has Hundreds of Experts to Talk to One-to-One, Including College Undergrads

"How do you really know if a school is the right fit?", asked Jonathan Yarnold, Chief Executive Officer of VIDSIG. "One of the most effective ways is to speak with an undergrad who's currently attending the school. And that's what VIDSIG's College Experience Experts provide for parents, students, and educators  honest conversation for answers to all the questions that you really want to ask, but probably wouldn't during a college tour with a school ambassador."

VIDSIG's College Experience Experts are current undergrads representing 160+ colleges and universities across the US, the UK, Canada, and Australia.

"We are thrilled to partner with VIDSIG to support our high school students in their college and career goals," offered Kyle Belokopitsky, NYS PTA Executive Director. "As parents ourselves, we truly understand how hard the college and career selection process is. VIDSIG has a truly unique concept to support students, and we are excited to work together to Shine a Light on Every Child with One Voice in New York State!"

"It's so great to see a need being filled  there's such a high percentage of undergrads in the workplace that have expressed buyer remorse about their school choices and experiences," continued Yarnold. "Both parents and students are having these amazing conversations about school safety, Greek life, and a ton of other topics that you're not necessarily going to get answered by a school website or brochure, and it's happening in a very natural way."

Live, one-to-one video chat sessions with the College Experience Experts are $25 for 10 minutes  and the partnership with New York State PTA provides a number of complimentary sessions, as well. Interested parents, students, and educators should visit https://nyspta.org/vidsig/ to learn more.

To download the new VIDSIG app, visit the App Store.

To learn more about VIDSIG, visit https://vidsig.com/ .

CONTACT: MELISSA KRESS, MEDIA RELATIONS

[email protected], 415.917.9710

SOURCE VIDSIG
HONG KONG, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- VOX Carrier Technologies, a fraud-prevention and asset monetization leader, has been honoured in the 2021 Global Carrier Awards as the Best Anti-Fraud Innovation for the second time, after winning the same award in 2019.

The Best Anti-Fraud Innovation award was a recognition of VOX Carrier's success in creating the most powerful anti-fraud platform in the industry, enabling operators to combat P2P, A2P voice (Flash call) and A2P messaging fraud, using a single platform which leverages proprietary algorithms and technologies. With the use of the VOX Carrier solution, called VOX360, operators are able to mitigate 98% of grey routes, resulting in a 4-7 fold revenue growth and a 100% growth in monetized traffic in the first year alone. This ground-breaking solution brings the fight against revenue leakage to a new level by enabling multi-channel and cross-channel monetization.

'We are honoured that our VOX360 solution has been named as the best anti-fraud innovation at this year's Global Carrier Awards again, considering the powerhouses, such as Telefonica Global Solutions and IBasis, who were shortlisted at our side. This is evidence that our constant commitment and innovation to help the industry prevent fraud is making VOX360 one of the most powerful solutions on the market' says Ehsan Ahmadi, CEO of VOX Carrier.

The Global Carrier Awards honour innovations, vision, and excellence and is judged by a panel of telecoms experts from TMT, MEF, Delta Partners, Strategy Analytics, Cambridge Management Consulting, Citrix Systems, Inmarsat, Deutsche Telekom, AT&T all with immense experience and knowledge to help them select the best of the best.

About VOX Carrier

VOX Carrier Technologies optimizes, accelerates and simplifies International Voice and Messaging through innovation in technology, platforms and processes. We serve operators, service providers, carriers, aggregators and enterprises worldwide, delivering an array of unified solutions such as P2P Voice, A2P Voice (Flash Call) and A2P Messaging, enabling multi-channel and cross-channel service monetization.

VOX Carrier's technologies initiative, Vox Technologies, has also launched VOX360, a unique solution in the industry, which won 'The Best Anti-Fraud Innovation' at the 2019 and 2021 Global Carrier Awards. VOX360 is an anti-fraud solution, designed to simplify the fight against fraud in telecommunications, leveraging proprietary algorithms and intelligence, and combining the latest analytics and AI technologies.

To learn more, get in touch at www.voxcarrier.com

SOURCE VOX Carrier
LONDON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Woonivers, a fintech app start-up, has won the "Best Tax-Free Shopping App, Belgium" and "Best Tax-Free Shopping App, Spain" awards for the year 2021. The felicitation ceremony will be held at the Palm Jumeirah  Waldorf Astoria in early 2022 in Dubai.

The Global Brand Awards is an annual event held by Global Brands Magazine (GBM), an international publication headquartered in the UK. The award aims to recognise global brands achieving excellence in performance across a broad range of sectors while keeping its readers updated on the branding world's key trends. Woonivers was evaluated based on customer service, satisfaction, digital innovation, strategic relationships and new business development.

Commenting on Woonivers winning the awards, ShivKumar (CEO) of Global Brands magazine said, "It was a tough call, but Woonivers deservedly receives not one, but two awards for being the best tax-free shopping appa remarkable achievement. Until Woonivers, claiming tax rebates in foreign countries was an arduous process and one that put off many tourists from making purchases abroad in the first place. Woonivers has not only identified this pain point but solved it in such an astonishing efficient manner that it's only a matter of time before this catches on in other countries."

Commenting on winning the award, Antonio Cantalapiedra (co-founder) of Woonivers said, "Woonivers is beyond thrilled with this recognition. As e-commerce has grown exponentially, so have the challenges of delivering a smooth and efficient consumer experience. Top companies, the world over, have focused their energies and resources on improving the 'purchase journeys', digitising their in-store experiences, linking with social media sites, improving their platform performance, providing wider payment options, speeding up the checkout process, etc. One area which has not received the appropriate level of attention till the arrival of Woonivers has been the returns and refunds experience. Before Woonivers, there was unnecessary consumer anxiety, a wasted opp for brands, poor feedback, etc. I truly believe that managing the post-sale experience, especially "tax-free" refunds instantly and proactively that the consumer finds palatable has a direct impact on engagement, future sales, customer loyalty, etc."

Commenting on winning the award, Abel Navajas (co-founder) of Woonivers said," Today's society, and therefore travellers, demand agile and immediate solutions, and the Woonivers app, born in Spain, which has been operating in Belgium since 2021 - the country in which we have started our European expansion turns an initial project only of digital validation of the VAT refund status into a unique experience for the traveller, earning money as they shop on their holidays with a mobile-only service.

The traveller wants time to enjoy their holiday, not to waste it in complex, complicated refund processes and with too many bureaucratic steps as used to happen until our arrival. At Woonivers, experience is the most important thing, and we put the customer at the centre of the service as new technology companies such as Uber, Deliveroo or Amazon do. With Woonivers, everyone wins, travellers, shops and states, and in 2021 mainly the Brits, who will be able to do their Christmas shopping in Europe receiving money, isn't it amazing?"

About Woonivers

Woonivers is a technological company founded in 2018 by the entrepreneurs Antonio Cantalapiedra and Abel Navajas that combines technology and innovation within the shopping and travel sector. We're reinventing Tax-Free shopping , providing a mobile-only, paperless and multichannel solution for businesses and travellers alike. With technology at the heart of our business, travel shoppers and retailers can benefit from more time and money to spend on the things that matter. For businesses, the Tax-Free process couldn't be easier  once travel shoppers purchase in a physical store or e-commerce, businesses deliver the same standard ticket/invoice as everyone else. This eradicates the need for business staff to integrate additional processes since everything is mainly done by the app's travel shoppers. We've got businesses and e-commerce covered, from the minute travel shoppers download the app all the way through to receiving their refund. There's also no need to struggle past the language barrier as the app provides step by step instructions. For travel shoppers, we're providing an only-mobile, secured and simple tax-free shopping experience.

Once they purchase in a physical store or e-commerce, they can claim their VAT refund in only 3 steps from their mobile, eradicating long queues, lengthy forms and often considerable delays from the traditional refund process! Travellers only need to register in the app, upload their purchases, scan their passports and validate their tax-free refund code on the departure day. By using our solution, travellers and businesses carry out their tax refund process without doing any paperwork. Our product is only mobile, respecting the rules of social distancing recommended by the health authorities.

About Global Brands Magazine (England)

Global Brands Magazine (GBM) has been at the forefront, bringing news, views and opinions on brands shaping the future of their industry. The UK-based magazine provides its readers with the latest news and information on 'best-in-class brands across the globe. Each year, GBM develops a series of awards for companies that stand out, having a unique vision, exceptional service, innovative solutions and consumer-centric products among their industry leaders.

About Global Brand Awards

Global Brand Awards honours brands for their excellence in performance and rewards companies across different sectors for the quality of their services. The Brand Awards highlight the accomplishments of organisations that have performed remarkably well in finance, education, hospitality, automotive, lifestyle, education, real estate, technology, and more. Global Brand Awards recognise vital players who progress towards excellence by providing a platform to acknowledge their efforts. In addition, GBM strives to create awareness concerning the significance of such organisations and rewards them for their notable efforts with the ultimate global recognition.

Check out the links below for Social Media Shout outs:

Facebook: https://bit.ly/3GjnGsA

Linkedin: https://bit.ly/2XKfX5q

Twitter: https://bit.ly/2Zpv4C4

Instagram: https://bit.ly/3b6jYnA

SOURCE Global Brands Publications Limited

Related Links

https://www.globalbrandsmagazine.com/


IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Mobilogix, the leading provider of cost-optimized State of the Art cellular IoT solutions announces the launch of BAT-SUR, the latest addition to its Asset Tracking portfolio.

BAT-SUR is a low-cost battery-operated global tracking device utilizing low power LTE CAT-M1 technology and is optimized for single-use tracking of premium cargo. Common use cases include periodic and motion-initiated location tracking and monitoring of assets at package-level across supply chain and logistics networks.

Mobilogix announces the release of BAT-SUR, the optimal device for single use tracking of premium cargo

BAT-SUR leverages smart design to maximize battery economy. Power is supplied by 2 AA field-replaceable Alkaline batteries. BAT-SUR employs an accelerometer and NIST Traceable temperature and humidity sensors for precise temperature monitoring in critical use cases. GNSS and WiFi Location as a Service ensure asset location in all scenarios. LED indicators and operator button provide visibility and control.

BAT-SUR is FOTA ready for remote update and configuration. User-defined reporting intervals and alerts can be managed via FusionIoT or 3rd Party Platforms on AWS IoT Core.

"With the release of the Mobilogix BAT-SUR, customers with reverse logistics challenges now have a cost-effective tracking solution without compromise to sensor quality or location capability in all scenarios", said Charlie Williams, EVP - Sales and Marketing with Mobilogix. "BAT-SUR is field serviceable, so while targeting tracking scenarios where reverse logistics provides workflow challenges, it also doubles as a reusable solution that could be used repeatedly over time."

Mobilogix is presently accepting BAT-SUR pre-orders and welcomes engagements with customers seeking scalable solutions without compromise for their asset tracking needs.

BAT-SUR IS AVAILABLE TO BE WHITE-LABELED AND CUSTOM BRANDED.

About Mobilogix

Mobilogix is the world's leading provider in IoT asset optimization and management solutions. The company's solutions are deployed by leading Agriculture, Automotive, Construction, Healthcare, Industrial and Transportation companies to track, monitor, and manage their assets with real-time actionable data. Mobilogix is headquartered in Irvine, California, and has global offices in Brazil, India, Hong Kong and China. For more information, please visit https://mobilogix.com/, call +1.949.748.8895, or email [email protected].

Media contact:

Greg Oppenheim

[email protected]

949-365-6236

SOURCE Mobilogix, Inc.

Related Links

http://www.mobilogix.com


Experts made such remarks during the 2021 Annual Conference of Financial Street Forum held recently, saying that China's financial sector has been facing both external shocks arisen from the possible policy change of central banks of developed economies such as the U.S. Federal Reserve and internal worries caused by debt crisis of some companies.

Pan Gongsheng, deputy governor of Chinese central bank and head of the State Administration of Foreign Exchange, said that compared with the last round of tightening cycle of the U.S. Fed, China's economy stays currently in a better position in the present economic cycle, meaning that the national economy maintained its recovery momentum, which cemented the basis for China's forex market to guard against external shocks.

Yi Gang, governor of Chinese central bank, said the debt crisis of Evergrande Group represented individual case of debt crisis risks and one third of its around 300 billion U.S. dollars of debts is financial liabilities with both decentralized creditors and collaterals, indicating controllable spillover risks for the financial industry.

Since the start of the third quarter, increasing domestic and foreign risks and challenges caused more pressures on China's economic structural transformation and against such backdrop, better distribution of financial resources became particularly important.

Xiao Yuanqi, deputy head of China Banking and Insurance Regulatory Commission (CBIRC) said that developing inclusive finance requires optimizing the preciseness of financial services, discovering and satisfying real financial needs, and providing financial services that can cushion impacts from the business operation cycles and revenue volatilities.

When talking about insurance, Guo Shuqing, head of CBIRC said that despite being the second largest by premium incomes worldwide, China's insurance sector still needs improvement in its density and depth and the pertinence and diversity of insurance coverage are also insufficient.

Original Link : https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/324454.html

SOURCE Xinhua Silk Road
DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Europe ISOBUS Component Market - A Regional Analysis: Focus on Product, Application, and Country Analysis - Analysis and Forecast, 2021-2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Europe ISOBUS component market is expected to reach $209.29 million by 2026, with a CAGR of 7.36% during the forecast period 2021-2026.

High growth in the market is expected to be driven by the need to resolve the inter-implement incompatibility issues existing between equipment manufactured by different companies. ISOBUS also allows for the inclusion of a virtual terminal (VT), which further allows the operator to control multiple implements simultaneously, manufactured by different companies.

Market Report Coverage - Europe ISOBUS Component MarketMarket Segmentation

Application: Tractor, Planter and Seeder, Harvester, and Others

Product: Hardware (Electronic Control Unit (ECU), Universal Terminal, Cables and Connectors, Others) and Software (Virtual Terminal, Task Controller, Mobile Application, and Others)

Regional Segmentation

Europe : France , Germany , Italy , Spain , and Rest-of- Europe

Market Growth Drivers

Need for Standardized Communication between Agricultural Equipment

Increase in Synergistic Partnerships between Agricultural Equipment Manufacturers

Need for Increased Production to Cater to the Growing Population

Market Challenges

Incompatibility Issues between Different Devices

High Initial Investment for Complete ISOBUS System

How This Report Can Add Value

Market by Product, Analysis, and Forecast: The segment gives a brief overview of the product portfolio of different companies and the market presence of different products existing in the market.

For instance, in June 2020, In April 2020, Amazone released avant, a cultivator that combines Amazone's FTender, a KG folding cultivator, and 40 parallelograms suspended 'TwinTeC' double disc coulters. The Avant is ISOBUS compatible and can be operated by any supported device.

Market by Application, Analysis, and Forecast: The segment gives a brief overview of the market status of different applications of the product and key players offering products in those applications. Tractors are one of the major application areas for the ISOBUS standard. This is because the tractor is the primary equipment in the field, and other implements such as sprayers and harvesters are connected with a tractor and then used in the field. Companies such as CNH Industrial offer several products in this category.

Europe ISOBUS Component Market

The first ISOBUS compliant equipment (tractor) was launched in the early 1990s, and since then, there have been significant improvements in the ISOBUS and other agricultural technologies. This standard is still in its growth phase and has a long runway ahead of it. The inter-implement connectivity achieved with ISOBUS equipment has been crucial in deploying digital solutions that will increase field productivity and efficiency.

Market Segmentation

Europe ISOBUS Component Market by Product

The component electronic control unit (ECU) witnessed high demand as compared to other components as all key applications of ISOBUS in the agricultural industry (such as harvesters and tractors) use ISOBUS-enabled ECUs for their functioning.

Europe ISOBUS Component Market by Application

The Europe ISOBUS component market by application category is dominated by the tractor segment. This dominance is due to the huge market of tractors in France and Germany.

Europe ISOBUS Component Market by Country

France generated the highest revenue of $44.90 million in 2020, attributed to the presence of leading ISOBUS-enabled agricultural implement manufacturers along with continuous government initiatives in the country to promote the deployment of ISOBUS equipment in the field. The country is expected to witness moderate growth of CAGR 7.98% during the forecast period.



Key Topics Covered:

1 Market

1.1 Business Dynamics

1.1.1 Business Drivers

1.1.2 Business Challenges

1.1.3 Business Strategies

1.1.4 Corporate Strategies

1.2 Key Manufacturers in Europe

1.3 Patent Analysis

1.3.1 Patent Analysis (by Status)

1.3.2 Patent Analysis (by Company)

2 Application

2.1 Europe ISOBUS Component Market (by Application)

2.1.1 Tractor

2.1.2 Planter and Seeder

2.1.3 Harvester

2.1.4 Others

3 Products

3.1 Europe ISOBUS Component Market (by Product)

3.1.1 Europe ISOBUS Component Market (by Hardware)

3.1.2 Europe ISOBUS Component Market (by Software)

4 Region

4.1 Europe (by Country)

4.1.1 Germany

4.1.2 France

4.1.3 Italy

4.1.4 Spain

4.1.5 Rest-of-Europe

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/7h5x8v

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

Related Links

http://www.researchandmarkets.com


TEL AVIV, Israel, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- AI-powered localization platform, BLEND , today released results from the July 2021 analysis of eCommerce localization tactics used by top-ranked brands with a global presence.

The report analyzes eCommerce localization metrics used to expand global presence and maintain local relevance among the Top 50 eCommerce websites as ranked by Similar Web in July 2021.

Distilling down the data identified in the report, key findings include:

46% of the top 50 websites offer more than four language choices to their overall audience to enable a localized and native experience.

Sixteen of the top 50 brands attract more than 20% of website traffic from external countries.

The top five eCommerce websites ranked by share of traffic from external countries are: Aliexpress, Steams, Booking.com, Samsung, and Ikea.

"Samsung, Shein, and Apple all offer their websites in over 30 languages worldwide, drawing over 50% of their site traffic from foreign markets," says Yair Tal, CEO of BLEND. "We see this trend of global multilingual expansion among large brands and small sellers alike, and COVID-19 had a lot to do with it. From a pound of tomatoes to a brand-new Tesla, shoppers, regardless of age or previous shopping habits, adapted their habits to suit the new pandemic-shaped retail reality and they prefer brands that speak their language."

Based on extensive research and analysis, BLEND has also released a new 4x4 Ps eCommerce Localization Model. This breaks down the four steps of a consumer's eCommerce journey to ensure a better native customer experience with global brands. At a micro level, the company has broken down the four stages into: Pre-visit, Pre-purchase, Purchase and Post-purchase to create a flawless native shopping experience.

By localizing the entire journey and all relevant elements, global brands can grow globally and provide better service that generates higher sales and better lifetime value.

"As eCommerce is booming and borderless, localization serves as a major growth engine and mistakes are known to affect conversion and perception," said Hila Shitrit Nissim, CMO at BLEND. "Our 4x4 Ps model helps us guarantee a coherent and polished customer experience that shows a significant increase in conversion rates of shoppers."

For additional information or to read the full analysis click here .

About BLEND

BLEND (formerly known as OneHourTranslation) is a leading AI-powered localization company that aims to remove cross-border barriers for global businesses. As an end-to-end multi-market enabler, BLEND empowers global brands to establish a native presence in fundamentally different markets, worldwide. BLEND's strength lies in the power of its AI-driven technology stack, its team diversity, and the strength of its global linguist and voice talent community. Alongside its enterprise-grade, all-in-one localization platform, BLEND also provides self-service on-demand translation services via BLEND Express. BLEND, founded in 2008, is a privately held company with offices in Tel Aviv, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, London, Shanghai, Kyiv, and Bucharest.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Sarah Evans

Sevans PR

[email protected]

SOURCE BLEND
AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- People are turning to robots to support their career development after the COVID-19 pandemic left them feeling lonely and disconnected from their own lives, according to a new study by Oracle and Workplace Intelligence, an HR research and advisory firm. The study of more than 14,600 employees, managers, HR leaders, and C-level executives across 13 countries found that people all around the world have felt stuck in their personal and professional lives but are ready to regain control of their futures.

The global workforce feels lonely, disconnected, and out of control

More than a year in lockdown and the continued uncertainty due to the pandemic has left many workers in emotional turmoil, feeling like their lives and careers are out of control.

80 percent of people have been negatively impacted by the last year, with many struggling financially (29 percent); suffering from declining mental health (28 percent); lacking career motivation (25 percent); and feeling disconnected from their own lives (23 percent).

62 percent found 2021 to be the most stressful year at work ever. More than half (52 percent) of people struggled with mental health at work more in 2021 than in 2020.

The amount of people who feel little to no control over their personal and professional lives doubled since the start of the pandemic. People noted they have lost control over their futures (43 percent); personal lives (46 percent); careers (41 percent); and relationships (39 percent).

76 percent of people feel stuck in their personal lives, feeling anxiety about their future (31 percent); trapped in the same routine (27 percent); and more loneliness than ever before (26 percent).

People are motivated to make changes, but are facing big challenges

Despite struggles over the last year, people around the world are eager to make changes in their professional lives.

93 percent of people used the past year to reflect on their lives and 88 percent said the meaning of success has changed for them since the pandemic, with work-life balance (42 percent); mental health (37 percent); and workplace flexibility (33 percent) now top priorities.

75 percent feel stuck professionally, because they don't have growth opportunities to progress their career (25 percent) and are too overwhelmed to make any changes (22 percent).

70 percent of people say feeling stuck in their career has negatively impacted their personal lives as well by adding extra stress and anxiety (40 percent); contributing to feeling stuck personally (29 percent); and taking focus away from their personal lives (27 percent).

83 percent of people are ready to make a change, but 76 percent said they are facing major obstacles. The biggest hurdles include financial instability (22 percent); not knowing what career change makes sense for them (20 percent); not feeling confident enough to make a change (20 percent); and seeing no growth opportunities at their company (20 percent).

Going into 2022, professional development is top of mind with many willing to give up key benefits such as vacation time (52 percent); monetary bonuses (51 percent); and even part of their salary (43 percent) for more career opportunities.

However, 85 percent of the global workforce are not satisfied with their employer's support. They are looking for organizations to provide more learning and skills development (34 percent); higher salaries (31 percent); and opportunities for new roles within their company (30 percent).

Employees around the world are hungry for new skills and turning to technology for help

To retain and grow top talent amidst changing workplace dynamics, employers need to pay attention to employee needs more than ever before and leverage technology to provide better support.

85 percent of people want technology to help define their future by identifying skills they need to develop (36 percent); recommending ways to learn new skills (36 percent); and providing next steps to progress towards career goals (32 percent).

75 percent of people would make life changes based on robot recommendations.

82 percent believe robots can support their careers better than a human by giving unbiased recommendations (37 percent); quickly answering questions about their career (33 percent); or finding new jobs that fit their current skills (32 percent).

People believe humans still have a critical role to play in career development and believe humans are better at providing support by offering advice based on personal experience (46 percent); identifying strengths and weaknesses (44 percent); and looking beyond a resume to recommend roles that fit personalities (41 percent).

87 percent of people believe their company should be doing more to listen to their needs and 55 percent are more likely to stay with a company that uses advanced technologies like AI to support career growth.

Supporting Quotes:

"The past year and a half changed how we work including where we work and, for a lot of people, who we work for. While there have been a lot of challenges for both employees and employers, this has been an opportunity to change the workplace for the better," said Dan Schawbel, managing partner, Workplace Intelligence. "The results clearly show that investment in skills and career development is now a key differentiator for employers as it plays a significant role in employees feeling like they have control over their personal and professional lives. Businesses that invest in their employees and help them find opportunities will reap the benefits of a productive, engaged workforce."

"The last year set a new course for the future of work. Surprisingly, amongst the stress, anxiety, and loneliness of the global pandemic, employees found their voice, became more empowered, and are now speaking up for what they want," said Yvette Cameron, senior vice president, Oracle Cloud HCM. "The evolving nature of the workplace shifted the way people think about success and reset people's expectations for how organizations can best support them. To attract and retain talent, businesses need to place a higher priority on helping employees identify and develop new skills and provide personalized career journeys so they can feel in control of their careers again."

Learn more about this global report here: https://www.oracle.com/human-capital-management/ai-at-work/

Methodology

Research findings are based on a survey conducted by Savanta, Inc. across the US, the UK, the UAE, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Brazil, India, Japan, South Korea, Singapore and Australia between July 27  August 17, 2021. For this survey, 14,639 C-suite executives, HR leaders, managers and full-time employees were asked general questions about the impact of COVID-19 on the workplace, AI and career development, and AI adoption at the workplace. The study targeted full-time employees who are 22 to 74 years of age. Respondents were recruited through a number of different mechanisms, via different sources to join the panels and participate in market research surveys. All panelists have passed a double opt-in process and complete on average 300 profiling data points prior to taking part in surveys. Respondents are invited to take part via email and are provided with a small monetary incentive for doing so. Results of any sample are subject to sampling variation. The magnitude of the variation is measurable and is affected by the number of interviews and the level of the percentages expressing the results. In this particular study, the chances are 95 in 100 that a survey result does not vary, plus or minus, by more than 0.8 percentage points from the result that would be obtained if interviews had been conducted with all persons in the universe represented by the sample.

About Workplace Intelligence

Workplace Intelligence, LLC is an HR research and advisory firm helping leaders adapt to trends, drive performance, and prepare for the future. Our mission is to create more intelligent workplaces using data-based insights. For more information please visit workplaceintelligence.com and read the Workplace Intelligence Insider Newsletter.

About Oracle

Oracle offers integrated suites of applications plus secure, autonomous infrastructure in the Oracle Cloud. For more information about Oracle (NYSE: ORCL), please visit us at oracle.com.

Trademarks

Oracle, Java, and MySQL are registered trademarks of Oracle Corporation.

SOURCE Oracle

Related Links

www.oracle.com


Dr. McClean has discussed his views concerning a global climate authority on CBC radio, in several broadcasts of its IDEAS program, and sets down his arguments in his monograph "Climate Change: The Moral and Political Imperatives," which he published on-line in 2017. "No country relies on voluntary compliance when it comes to taxation and commercial contracts, but rather robust enforcement mechanisms are used to assure compliance," says McClean. "How can it be," he queries, "that we understand the need for enforcement mechanisms to assure that taxes are collected, yet when it comes to saving the world from the worst that climate change will deliver unto us and unto thousands of other species, we are content to rely on voluntary compliance? Knowing the political pressures faced at home, how can voluntary compliance be a proper moral response?"

McClean argues that a global climate authority isn't a step toward "world government" (assertions concerning which he refers to as "a canard") but would be a sensible, pragmatic, and adaptive tool created by the world's states and which could sunset at a date certain. He believes the global climate authority should be created by the UN Security Council, perhaps using and expanding its "Responsibility to Protect" principle as the basis. The coercive mechanisms would include requiring states to fund an international escrow fund whereby states would forfeit some of their deposit when they fail to meet certain material targets, with the forfeited sums going to less rich countries to help them in their efforts to meet their commitments. With various negotiation algorithms, states could be assured that they can avoid most of the problems of free-riders and also avoid "tragedy of the commons" outcomes. Concerning the UN Security Council, McClean says "I am aware of the political hurdles and do not wish to minimize them. I am also aware that if the word "Security" in Security Council is to mean anything it must mean that the Council plays a leading role to address the climate emergency. If the Security Council can't or won't address the biggest threat to global security since the commencement of the nuclear arms race, then what, exactly, is it good for?

CONTACT: [email protected], @bgeiconsultants

SOURCE Business and Government Ethics International

Related Links

www.bgei.net


KISSIMMEE, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Scheduled to illuminate Give Kids The World Village November 12, 2021 through January 2, 2022, Night of a Million Lights is much more than Central Florida's brightest new holiday tradition. For two Michigan wish families, the event marks the culmination of a remarkable love story 24 years in the making  proof positive of the magic that happens every day at the Village, an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort in Kissimmee, FL, that provides critically ill children and their families with life-changing, weeklong wish vacations at no cost.

For Michigan's Kristine Barann and Jim Fleszar, Give Kids The World Village's Night of a Million Lights holiday lights spectacular (Nov. 12 - Jan. 2) will be the setting for a magical homecoming. In September 1997, both stayed at the nonprofit resort in Central Florida with a child battling cancer. They met by chance 22 years later and married in 2019 - only recently discovering that they had stayed in side-by-side villas during the same week on their wish trips. www.gktw.org/lights Scheduled to illuminate Give Kids The World Village Nov. 12, 2021 through Jan. 2, 2022, Night of a Million Lights will feature a dancing lights show, a dazzling tree trail, tram tours of 100 decorated villas, a holiday marketplace, and behind-the-scenes experiences. The event will raise funds for the Village, an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort that provides critically ill children and their families from around the world with magical weeklong wish vacations at no cost. www.gktw.org/

In December 1996, Kristine Barann's two-and-a-half-year-old son, Alex, was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma when a tumor was discovered in his sinus cavity. After nine months of extensive treatment at Children's Hospital of Michigan, Alex and his family enjoyed an unforgettable visit to Give Kids The World with the support of The Rainbow Connection. Alex's care continued back home, and despite losing the vision in his right eye due to the pressure of the tumor in his sinus cavity, he has been cancer-free since 1998.

Fast forward 20 years, and Kristine, now divorced, connected online with a man named Jim Fleszar who shared a passion for travel and a fierce love of family. Jim had lost his wife to cancer in 2016, and with his children now grown, had decided to date again. Kristine and Jim's first date was spent talking about their children, all very close in ageand the similarities between the two families were uncanny. Like Alex, Jim's oldest daughter, Christie, had battled pediatric cancer; both had stayed on the same floor at Children's Hospital of Michigan around the same time; and both families had visited Give Kids The World through The Rainbow Connection.

Christie's health journey began in March 1997 when what appeared to be a clogged saliva gland was diagnosed as rhabdomyosarcoma. The tumor growth was aggressive, and the prescribed treatments did little to halt its advancement. In September, however, the tumor growth slowed, enabling the family to enjoy a memorable visit to Give Kids The World. "This trip was very special to us, because it was the last time that our family of five was able to vacation together," says Jim. Near the end of the week, Christie's condition worsened, and upon returning home, she entered hospice. Christie passed away on December 28, 1997. "Christie may have only been on this earth for eight short years, but her awesome life continues to touch us all," says Jim.

Kristine and Jim's relationship blossomed, and their "Brady Bunch" became official in April 2019 when they were married. With Alex having recently gotten married, Kristine and Jim decided to plan a family vacation to Florida and a visit to Give Kids The World in December during Night of a Million Lights. Upon reaching out to the Village to schedule their Welcome Back Family visit, Kristine and Jim were floored to discover that not only had both families stayed at the Village during the very same week in September 1997, the families had stayed side by side in adjoining villas! From among 166 residential wish family villas at the resort, the Fleszar family stayed in villa 115, and the Baranns in villa 116. In addition, Alex's and Christie's gold stars  which are placed on the ceiling of the Village's Castle of Miracles in honor of every wish child who has visited  are located just five stars apart from among 176,000 stars. Kristine and Jim are convinced that their meeting was no mere coincidence.

Jim sums it up with an analogy to working on cross stitch or needlepoint. "When you are working on the stitches and you look at the back, it's a mess. The threads are all over the place, and nothing seems to have a rhyme or reason. It's only when you look on the other side that you see the intended scene," he says. "That is God's plan for us. All of these crazy things that happen throughout our lives may not make sense to us, but it's God's vision on the other side that is beautiful. We just have to have faith."

Kristine and Jim's love story will come full circle on December 20 when they visit the Village for the first time in 24 years to view Christie's and Alex's stars, revisit their original villas, and create new memories during Night of a Million Lights  named by USA TODAY the "Number One Thing To Do In Orlando In December" for 2020.

This year's Night of a Million Lights event will offer several new attractions, including storytelling tram tours; a 360-degree dancing lights show encompassing 21 fully programmed buildings set to music; a dazzling tree trail; and a holiday marketplace offering festive holiday merchandise and an opportunity for children to meet Santa in his elaborately designed Florida home. Also new this year, guests can make their visits extra special by purchasing one of a variety of premium packages, ranging from behind-the-scenes guided tours and premium dessert parties to special events and exclusive balcony experiences  providing a stunning setting for marriage proposals, vow renewals, birthday and anniversary celebrations, and special connections like Kristine and Jim's.

To purchase tickets and learn more about premium packages, sponsorship opportunities and volunteer experiences, visit www.gktw.org/lights.

Media Contact:

Cindy Elliott

562.896.1177

[email protected]

SOURCE Give Kids The World

Related Links

http://www.gktw.org/lights


BEIJING, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) announced today that it will align its operations with the goals of the Paris Agreement by July 1, 2023. The Bank currently estimates its cumulative climate finance approvals to be USD50 billion by 2030. This amount would represent a fourfold increase in annual climate finance commitments since AIIB started publicly reporting the number in 2019.

Earlier this year, AIIB announced it would target at least a 50% share of climate finance in actual financing approvals by 2025. Today's announcement marks an important step towards achieving this goal.

"We are at a defining moment in historyone which calls for bold, fast and wide-ranging collective action if we are to limit global warming and protect our fragile planet," said Jin Liqun, President and Chair of the Board of Directors at AIIB. "Today's announcement reinforces AIIB's long-standing pledge to support climate action in line with the Paris Agreement. We think the way forward needs greater participation by the private sector on all fronts, so that we can collectively deliver on the promise of building an inclusive, equitable and sustainable future."

Speaking at a press conference on the sidelines of the 2021 AIIB Annual Meeting hosted by the United Arab Emirates, President Jin said enhancing investments in adaptation and resilience for low-income members and fostering emerging technologies to drive action on climate change are key focus areas.

The Paris Alignment commitment would apply to sovereign and nonsovereign projects, including investments made via financial intermediaries.

AIIB is currently testing a rigorous process to ensure projects meet low-carbon and climate-resilient standards consistent with the Paris accord. The approach draws on the international standards and frameworks currently being developed in collaboration with other multilateral development banks.

In the lead-up to COP26 in November, more than 130 countries have set or are considering a net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. However, the current level of ambition set out in these plans is, in aggregate, still far too low for the international community to meet the temperature goal of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, preferably to 1.5 degrees, compared to pre-industrial levels. AIIB sees leveraging emerging technologies as key to raising climate ambition.

"As an MDB located in the hub of innovation, we believe that technology can act as a lever to curb greenhouse gas emissions. However, this will require a more focused approach to the adoption of new technology as an essential element of any comprehensive response to global climate change. Ultimately, we need the private sector and institutional investors to come to the table to partner with us so that we can combat the worst impact on climate change," said President Jin.

An expanded focus on adaptation and resilience will complement the Bank's ambitious target of having climate finance represent 50 percent of AIIB's financing approvals by 2025. Climate finance accounted for 41 percent of the Bank's infrastructure portfolio in 2020.

"There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Properly funding adaptation recognizes that this work may require fundamental shifts in infrastructure and our behavior. Flood walls, improved building standards, resilient infrastructure are all tools we have at our disposal. But access to funds to implement these measures is vital, especially in developing countries," President Jin said.

Annual resilience costs in developing countries alone are estimated to be USD140-300 billion in 2030. Today, resilience finance stands at a mere USD30 billion, according to the United Nations.

In 2020, AIIB launched the AIIB-Amundi Climate Change Investment Framework, the objective of which is to hasten the transition to a low-carbon economy through the capital markets. The framework allows investors to analyze climate risks with investment opportunities by translating the three objectives of the Paris Agreement (mitigation, resilience to physical change and transition to green economy) into quantifiable investment metrics by aligning financial flows with a low-carbon, climate-resilient pathway.

About AIIB

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank whose mission is financing the Infrastructure for Tomorrowinfrastructure with sustainability at its core. We began operations in Beijing in January 2016 and have since grown to 103 approved members worldwide. We are capitalized at USD100 billion and Triple-A-rated by the major international credit rating agencies. Working with partners, AIIB meets clients' needs by unlocking new capital and investing in infrastructure that is green, technology-enabled and promotes regional connectivity.

SOURCE The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
"Alaska is committed to creating a sustainable future for aviation, working on all aspects of a five-part path toward our goal of net zero by 2040," said Diana Birkett Rakow, vice president of public affairs and sustainability for Alaska Airlines. "We are honored to partner with ZeroAvia's innovative and forward-thinking team, to support their progress developing zero-emissions aviation, and to collaborate for real-world hydrogen aviation success."

Alaska and ZeroAvia engineers will work together to scale the company's existing powertrain platform to produce the ZA2000, an engine family capable of producing between 2,000 and 5,000 kilowatts of power with a 500-mile range. The partnership will initially deploy ZeroAvia's hydrogen-electric propulsion technology into a full-size De Havilland Q400 aircraft, previously operated by Alaska Air Group subsidiary Horizon Air Industries, Inc. , capable of transporting 76 passengers. ZeroAvia will also work closely with aircraft regulators during this project to ensure the aircraft meets both safety and operational requirements. ZeroAvia will set up a location in the Seattle area to support this initiative.

Alaska has also secured options for up to 50 kits to begin converting its regional aircraft to hydrogen-electric power through ZeroAvia's zero-emission powertrain, starting with the Q400 aircraft. This pioneering zero-emission aviation rollout will be supported by the ground fuel production and dispensing infrastructure from ZeroAvia and its infrastructure partners, such as Shell. Working to advance novel propulsion is one of the five parts of Alaska's strategy to achieve net zero.

"The aviation industry is one of the hardest industries to decarbonize; however, with this collaboration, we are one step closer to achieving our goal of making our skies emission-free," said Val Miftakhov, CEO and founder of ZeroAvia. "We are thrilled to see Alaska taking the lead to implement clean technologies into their operations and look forward to putting boots on the ground with Alaska's team.."

Recently, ZeroAvia also successfully ground-tested its 600kW powertrain capable of flying airframes 10-20 seats in size 500 miles, is well advanced in preparing a 19-seat aircraft for flight testing at Cotswold Airport in the UK and is moving to full-size prototype manufacturing of its 2,000 kW engine for demonstrations in 2022.

About ZeroAvia

ZeroAvia is a leader in zero-emission aviation, focused on hydrogen-electric aviation solutions to address a variety of markets, initially targeting 500 mile range in 9-19 seat aircraft used for commercial passenger transport, cargo, agriculture, and more. Based in the UK and USA, ZeroAvia has already secured experimental certificates for two prototype aircraft from the CAA and FAA, passed significant flight test milestones, and is on track for commercial operations in 2024 for its 600kW engines, and 2026 for its 2,000-5,000kW engine platform. The company's expanding UK operations are supported by grants from UK's Aerospace Technology Institute and Innovate UK, and ZeroAvia is part of the UK Prime Minister's Jet Zero Council. For more information, please visit ZeroAvia.com and follow @ZeroAvia on Twitter , Instagram , and LinkedIn .

About Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines and its regional partners serve more than 120 destinations across the United States and to Mexico, Canada and Costa Rica. The airline emphasizes Next-Level Care for its guests, along with providing low fares, award-winning customer service and sustainability efforts. Alaska is a member of oneworld. With the global alliance and the airline's additional partners, guests can travel to more than 1,000 destinations on more than 20 airlines while earning and redeeming miles on flights to locations around the world. Learn more about Alaska at newsroom.alaskaair.com and blog.alaskaair.com . Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air are subsidiaries of Alaska Air Group (NYSE: ALK).

SOURCE ZeroAvia

Related Links

http://www.ZeroAvia.com


HONG KONG, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Nowcompare.com, the world's first expat insurance and financial aggregator website, celebrates the 10th anniversary of its launch in Hong Kong in 2011. A milestone made possible by identifying and unilaterally acting upon the need in the market for lower cost financial services products, higher levels of care and transparent pricing within the expat community.

Industry influencer

As part of Alliance Group International, a leading global and insurance intermediary, Nowcompare has high negotiating power and can influence the market. This has galvanized other suppliers into developing expat products that are more transparent to the end user. NowCompare continues to offer the best possible choice of expat insurance policies from 98 percent of the world's financial lines and private health insurance providers.

Serving 10 million expats worldwide

The original offering of private health insurance was swiftly followed by Life Insurance, Savings and Investment products. In 2018, Wellness services (including Yoga and Counselling) and an expat job search facility were introduced. Today, Nowcompare.com serves over 10 million expats, providing access to more affordable insurance, finance and wellness services across 189 countries/regions.

50 per cent of all online insurance sold by aggregators

As reported in Mckinsey & Company's, "Friends or foes: The Rise of European aggregators and their impact on traditional insurers", in Europe alone, by 2018 over 50 per cent of all online insurance was sold via aggregators. Customers are using aggregators at both the start and the end of their buying journey, first comparing the market and then to buy the products.

Cherry-Yu, Director of Now Compare, says, "Nowcompare's phenomenal growth is recognition of the quality of products and services that we provide to our expat clients. NowCompare was the first, and continues to be, the most comprehensive expat financial service aggregator in the world. It could be said that Nowcompare.com has revolutionized the insurance industry around the world by encouraging other insurers to compete on a single platform with more transparency."

For more information about NowCompare.com contact [email protected] or visit www.nowcompare.com

SOURCE Alliance Group International
ALPHARETTA, Ga., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital Ignition, one of the fastest growing coworking spaces and tech incubators in Georgia, announced the expansion of their data center --designed to support the growing IT needs of companies in Atlanta, Alpharetta, Cumming, Milton, Gainesville, John's Creek, Suwanee, and the North Georgia region.

The US economy loses between $200 to $570 billion a year in productivity due to power outages and other data disturbances. With increases in digitization, remote work, quick data access, secure information storage requirements, and overall cybersecurity specifications, companies of all sizes are looking for data centers near their homes and offices that will facilitate these new levels of business support.

After a successful soft launch in June 2021, Digital Ignition's data center provides:

Data Center near home and technology epicenters  strategically located in one of the fastest growing tech areas in the nation.

 strategically located in one of the fastest growing tech areas in the nation. On-demand access to information, replicated backups, as well as personnel that can assist with disaster recovery planning.

to information, replicated backups, as well as personnel that can assist with disaster recovery planning. Modern controls & protections that include Biometric access controls, N+1 redundancy, Leibert assisted datacenter cooling, power generators, ISP providers, and ongoing support.

that include Biometric access controls, N+1 redundancy, Leibert assisted datacenter cooling, power generators, ISP providers, and ongoing support. Dynamic overflow seating arrangements that can accommodate tech teams of up to 100 people if needed to test or restore a company's full system.

that can accommodate tech teams of up to 100 people if needed to test or restore a company's full system. Dedicated public internet address space available for VPN or remote server/network access.

available for VPN or remote server/network access. Onsite network engineers to assist with configuration and getting started.

As a result, Digital Ignition's data center is ideal for:

Companies that are trying to store and access large files and tremendous volumes of information.

Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning companies, and Internet of Things (IoT) blockchain teams with large data processing needs.

Engineering, architecture, robotics, and 3D Modeling product development firms that need to house, test, and access large files in real time.

Technology providers and digital transformation companies that are analyzing broad and confidential data sets.

"Our Alpharetta data center is all about productivity and business continuity in today's highly digital work environment," said Joanne Sanders, President of EWISE communications and General Manager of Digital Ignition. "We're delighted to offer companies, adapting to this new way of doing business, with a solution close to home that helps them stay focused on growth," she added.

To schedule a tour or for more information about Digital Ignition's data center, please visit their website at www.digitalignition.com or call 770.369.9321.

About Digital Ignition

Digital Ignition, one of the fastest growing technology incubators in the state of Georgia, serves as a business launching pad for more than 40 growing companies in the region. Located in Alpharetta, Georgia (often referred to as the fintech capital of the world), Digital Ignition's facility offers flexible and oversized co-working spaces, unique access to Georgia Tech's ATDC best-in-class incubator services, and community-focused accelerator services that match member companies with area businesses looking to innovate.

Media Contact



Joanne Sanders

404-644-2779

[email protected]

SOURCE Digital Ignition
PARIS and BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Shift Technology , a provider of AI-driven decision automation and optimization solutions for the global insurance industry, announced today that Amica, the longest-standing mutual insurer of automobiles in the United States, will deploy three solutions from the Shift Insurance Suite. The insurer will use Shift Claims Fraud Detection and Shift Subrogation Detection to help ensure customers' claims are settled as quickly, accurately and fairly as possible. Shift Underwriting Fraud Detection will assist efforts to prevent bad actors from establishing coverage with the insurer. At deployment, the Shift solutions will support Amica's auto and property lines of business.

For more than 100 years, Amica has taken a "customer-first" approach to insurance. The insurer prides itself on building enduring relationships with policyholders by providing them with excellent service and comprehensive insurance protection. Also key is maintaining policyholder trust in the company's financial stability, which is achieved through careful decision-making and sound financial management. Amica's partnership with Shift complements its work in this area.

"We strive to deliver an exemplary customer experience with every customer interaction, and our employees are key to making that happen," stated Tara S. McClary, Assistant Vice President, Amica. "With Shift, we're using powerful technology to help our employees make faster, more confident decisions throughout the claims and underwriting processes."

Amica is actively undertaking steps to increase operational efficiency across the policy lifecycle. In the area of policy underwriting, Shift Underwriting Fraud Detection uses both internal and external data to provide additional visibility and fact verification during the application process. Shift Subrogation Detection will help digitize a mostly manual process to more efficiently identify those claims for which a third-party may be wholly or partially responsible. Shift Claims Fraud Detection will build on work the company has already done in using artificial intelligence to spot suspicious claims, and by taking advantage of the solution's integration with Guidewire, will deliver real-time alerts on potentially fraudulent claims directly to Amica's claims professionals.

"Amica is a perfect example of what happens when a customer-first insurer adopts powerful technology solutions that inject greater visibility and efficiency into the policy and claims lifecycle," explained Dan Donovan, head of customer success, Shift Technology. "Amica's claims and underwriting professionals will have at their fingertips the data, information and knowledge required to make critical decisions, not only quickly, but also with great confidence."

About Shift Technology

Shift Technology delivers the only AI-native decision automation and optimization solutions built specifically for the global insurance industry. Addressing several critical processes across the insurance policy lifecycle, the Shift Insurance Suite helps insurers achieve faster, more accurate claims and policy resolutions. Shift has analyzed billions of insurance transactions to date and was presented Frost & Sullivan's 2020 Global Claims Solutions for Insurance Market Leadership Award. For more information, please visit www.shift-technology.com.

About Amica Insurance

Amica is the longest-standing mutual insurer of automobiles in the U.S. A direct writer, Amica also offers home, life, marine and umbrella insurance, as well as annuities.

Founded on the principles of outstanding service, Amica creates peace of mind and builds enduring relationships with its customers. That mission is shared and supported by thousands of employees across the country.

Amica.com.

Contacts:

Rob Morton

Corporate Communications

Shift Technology

+1.617.416.9216

[email protected]

SOURCE Shift Technology

Related Links

https://www.shift-technology.com


Consumers State That Massage Therapy Can Be Effective in Reducing Pain The newest research indicates that 92% of consumers state that massage therapy can be effective in reducing pain and 91% feel it can be beneficial for health and wellness. In addition, more consumers than ever before (83%) agree that massage should be considered a form of healthcare while few perceive it as just a form of pampering.

More Consumers Are Discussing Massage Therapy With Their Health care Provider

In 2021, the highest number of consumers of all time (26%) discussed massage therapy with their health care provider. Of those consumers, 35% said their doctors had strongly recommended it. And, more consumers are getting massage at medical locations than in previous years  these settings include chiropractor's offices, physical therapist's office, alternative therapy clinics, hospitals, and physician's offices.

Why Massage For Pain Is More Important Than Ever

During the pandemic, many chronic pain services were disrupted as healthcare systems throughout the country were forced to redistribute resources for non-urgent, outpatient care towards intensive care units for COVID-19 patients. This delayed access exacerbated the pain crisis in the U.S., contributing to drug over-reliance and substance abuse. Now that massage therapists are practicing again, non-opioid pain therapies, such as massage, are more important than ever.

How has COVID-19 impacted the Massage Profession?

Although COVID-19 continues to impact the country, consumers are back getting massages again. Research shows that of those consumers who have ever gotten a massage, 92% expect to get one in the future, with most expecting to get one in the next 6 months. However, the pandemic has created change among consumer behavior; consumers are now paying closer attention to cleaning and safety procedures. Almost half of consumers (44%) indicate they would ask their therapist about sanitation standards prior to making an appointment. In addition, 44% of consumers prefer to wear a mask during a massage, and 36% would also like the therapist to wear a mask.

Overall, massage therapists have changed their work practices, and cleaning and appointment procedures due to state regulations surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about the latest consumer trends and data, visit AMTA's 2021 Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet.

About The American Massage Therapy Association

The American Massage Therapy Association, the most trusted name in massage therapy, is the largest non-profit, professional association serving massage therapists, massage students and massage schools. The association is directed by volunteer leadership and fosters ongoing, direct member-involvement through its 51 chapters. AMTA works to advance the profession through ethics and standards, the promotion of fair and consistent licensing of massage therapists in all states, and public education on the benefits of massage. To find a qualified massage therapist in your area, visit AMTA's Massage Therapist Locator Service.

All research data comes from the 2021 AMTA Consumer Survey.

SOURCE American Massage Therapy Association

Related Links

www.amtamassage.org


AUSTIN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Consumer Staples Exchange PS ("CSX"), a Blockchain Ecosystem Exchange sector, announced today that it is deploying its big data, artificial intelligence, and blockchain technology shared services platform for decentralized exchanges and marketplaces. As a member of the Blockchain Ecosystem Exchange system, its single goal is leveraging the power of blockchain e-commerce to democratize the data behind human identity.

Blockchain Ecosystem Exchange

"The mission of the Consumer Staples Exchange is to horizontally and vertically unite food, staples, retailing, beverage, tobacco, household, and personal products on its blockchain-powered shared services technology in order to DEMOCRATIZE the Consumer Staples buying experience for the HUMAN IDENTITY," said Eraj Akhtar, Chief Futures Officer for CrowdPoint Technologies. "Our Futures team has a singular focus on leveraging the power of the blockchain to drive e-commerce more efficiently first. Then we can move to use a solid supply chain optimization approach to improve customer service, eventually removing bloat in the business ecosystem."

The company has been working in stealth for the past year, integrating into a common schema of 11 market sectors, providing consumers an easy way to navigate through its Blockchain Ecosystem Exchange. Its shared services include an integrated suite of proprietary nextgen blockchain, big data, and artificial intelligence technologies. The shared services also include technologies that help small and medium-sized companies grow and compete like large enterprises. The company has deployed its web-based communication service that comes prepopulated with millions of ideal customer profiles. This feat is possible through a big data customer resource manager. Also included is a website builder that provides web hosting and design services. Users can quickly build their site while integrating directly into nextgen blockchain technology. The company is currently in negotiations with several sizable Consumer Staple resource providers and anticipates making an announcement in the coming days.

The Consumer Staples Exchange is passionate about the success blockchain technology will have on this sector. CSX focuses on delivering a solid public-private blockchain-powered assembly of marketplaces that focus on more efficient e-commerce.

For more information, you can visit the following links: https://consumerstaples.exchange/?afmc=x_MU2cMqkDbb69c0DTegp

https://blockchainecosystem.exchange/?afmc=x_MU2cMqkDbb69c0DTegp/

This presentation may contain "forward-looking" statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, and these statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical fact could be deemed forward-looking, including, but not limited to, expectations of future operating results or financial performance, market size and growth opportunities, the calculation of certain of our key financial and operating metrics, plans for future operations, competitive position, technological capabilities, and strategic relationships, as well as assumptions relations to the foregoing. Forward-looking statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties, some of which cannot be predicted or quantified. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as "guidance", "expect", "anticipate", "should", "believe", "hope", "target", "project", "plan", "goals", "estimate", "potential", "predict", "may", "will", "might", "could", "intend", "shall", and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions. You should not put undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved, if at all.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond our control. Our actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to risks detailed in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). You can locate those reports on our investor relations website (investors.crowdpointtech.com) or on the SEC website (www.sec.gov). If the risks or uncertainties ever materialize or the assumptions prove incorrect, our results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation and do not intend to update these forward-looking statements or to conform these statements to actual results or to changes in our expectations.

Contact:

Eraj Akhtar

Blockchain Ecosystem Exchange

[email protected]

+1 (844) 972-1777

https://consumerstaples.exchange/?afmc=x_MU2cMqkDbb69c0DTegp

SOURCE Blockchain Ecosystem Exchange

Related Links

https://consumerstaples.exchange/


MIAMI, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- TOGETHER is a renaissance. An experimental happening, multi-format platform and cultural incubator that encourages equitable modes of making and thinking beyond the traditional art market. The project is a diverse collaboration of boundless creativity that seeks to investigate new forms, technologies, and concepts, by convening nonprofit initiatives, hybrid projects, and unconventional enterprises to explore the possibilities of alternative formats for cultural gatherings and artistic production.

The inaugural edition will take place at the Seven Seas Motel, in the historic corridor of Biscayne Boulevard. Guests weave through the motel's open-air gallery, immersed in a thriving community and 1950s aesthetic wave, while simultaneously witnessing the collective manifesting the dreams of tomorrow. TOGETHER propels us into the new, by tapping into our past. Visitors resurface with a unified sense of togetherness, and renewed perspective.

This year, TOGETHER focuses on Latin America and adjacent communities, partnering with the most forward-looking alternative arts organizationsranging from New York to Lisbon, Guatemala City to Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Havana, Miami, and more.

The program includes an exhibition, a talk and screening series, performances, site-specific installations and musical concerts. Alongside this irl programming, TOGETHER has partnered with Rally, launching its own cryptocurrency, $TGTHR , and releasing NFTs by a selection of artists.

With the massive paradigm shift brought about by the pandemic, all organizations are tasked with reimagining their agendas and structures. TOGETHER breaks with convention and introduces a new, more accessible format anyone can interact with, discuss, and purchase art from. TOGETHER cultivates economic sustainability in the arts by rejecting exclusivity and implementing fair revenue-sharing models among participating artists, institutions, and collectives.

Come hold hands and take the plunge. TOGETHER.

About TOGETHER 2021

An inclusive, fun environment for a diverse audience, TOGETHER unifies a coterie of multidisciplinary creatives that are re-envisioning our collective existence, exploring our roots, and nurturing an inspired future. The artists and ideas that blossom in these fertile grounds go on to shape the programming of museums, biennials, and international fairs.

Launching during Art Basel Week, a time when the global art world descends on Miami, TOGETHER elevates new voices and ideas, rejuvenating the international art scene through innovation, community building, and transparent, collective financial arrangements; with the goal of decentralizing the art market and expanding access to the culture industry's resources.

SOURCE Together Arts

Related Links

https://together-arts.com


Armis Partner Experience (APEX) program is a strategic initiative that delivers global connectivity to shared clients around the world

PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Armis , the leading unified asset visibility and security platform provider, today announced its new Armis Partner Experience (APEX) program . The program was created with simplicity in mind to help channel partners tap into the market opportunity of securing unmanaged IoT devices, which are estimated to make up between 80 and 90 percent of the average business environment by 2025. A tiered program with multiple go-to-market options means APEX is flexible for channel partners, resellers, systems integrators and MSSPs. It is built to support the full customer lifecycle with a focus on collaboration, mutual investment and increased time to value.

APEX is a unified program designed to allow partners to thrive in their areas of expertise, whether it's IT, OT, IoT, IoMT or converged environments across any business sector. The program assists partners in expanding to supplemental areas that help drive their go-to-market model and rewards them accordingly through financial incentives, Business Development Funds (BDFs) and enablement, along with increased sales and marketing or communication support.

"IBM is excited to be part of the new Armis Partner Program where we continue to drive value for our clients. IBM and Armis continue to be focused on mitigating risk in the IT/OT/IoT and IoMT space. Armis is equally excited to be part of IBM's Gold Strategic Alliance Partner Program. Together we can do great things for our clients," said Rob Dyson , Global OT/IoT Security Services Business Leader, IBM when discussing the importance of the APEX program and IBM's involvement.

Most businesses can't see 40% of the devices in their environments. From managed to unmanaged, businesses struggle with identifying all the devices around them, and being able to secure them. Armis discovers all devices and associated risks in an environment, detects threats, and acts automatically to protect critical systems and data - especially when it comes to unmanaged devices. Armis is agentless and integrates easily with existing security products, helping organizations understand the security risks that stem from unmanaged and managed connected devices and gives them oversight of their entire environments in order to close significant security gaps.

"Check Point is excited to be a part of the new Armis Apex Partner Program. For Armis to develop this new program, encompassing all of its different go-to-market routes, from VARs to OEMs like Check Point, is an indication of its dedication to the partner community as a primary route to market. As the connected IoT devices explode, Check Point sees Armis as a natural complement to its own technology and we are excited to partner with Armis to see and secure everything," said Devanesan Moses , Global Head of IoT/OT sales, Check Point.

Armis partners can take advantage of the Armis Device Knowledgebase as part of the Armis platform to help identify and classify digital assets accurately with the ability to immediately remediate any issues at both the endpoint and network level. The flexibility of the technology combined with the elasticity of APEX means that Armis can support a diverse partner ecosystem from VARs, resellers and systems integrators to managed service providers looking to build out their security operations.

"mCloud is excited to be a part of the new Armis Apex Partner Program. Armis' commitment to this program, coordinating all of its different go-to-market strategies in a cohesive structure, from VARs and SIs to Managed Service Providers like mCloud differentiates Armis as a "channel company" rather than just a company with a channel," said Costantino Lanza , mCloud Chief Growth and Revenue Officer. "The market demand for managed services for optimizing energy intensive assets and ESG compliance with increased cyber-security is growing rapidly, and we see Armis as a natural complement to our technology and business model."

Armis is the #1 provider when it comes to IT, ICS, OT, IoT, IoMT device security. Armis is ranked as the leading cybersecurity device visibility platform provider by all major industry analysts (click here ). We are partners with the world's major players including but not limited to Crowdstrike, IBM, Booz Allen Hamilton, Exabeam, Fortified Health, Lead Data Technologies, PWC, Check Point, EXABEAM, Accenture, Gigamon, Optiv, Capgemini, mCloud, Deloitte, VeriStor, Cyvatar and 100s of other firms around the world (click here ).

The APEX program allows members unparalleled access to Armis technology, skills and expertise. So they can help their clients see every device in their environment and secure them all easily. To learn more about the APEX program simply visit: https://www.armis.com/partner-programs-new/ or contact us today https://www.armis.com/contact-us/



About Armis

Armis is the leading unified asset visibility and security platform designed to address the new threat landscape that connected devices create. Fortune 1000 companies trust our real-time and continuous protection to see with full context all managed, unmanaged, and IoT devices, including medical devices (IoMT), operational technology (OT) and industrial control systems (ICS). Armis provides passive and unparalleled cybersecurity asset management, risk management, and automated enforcement. Armis is a privately held company and headquartered in Palo Alto, California.

Media Contact:

Kari Schatz

Highwire PR for Armis

[email protected]

SOURCE Armis

Related Links

https://armis.com


With ANF's 130+ year history along with AF's 120+ years, the combined organization is well positioned for the next 250 years, and now becomes the first shelf-stable producer of plant-based foods with total vertical integrationa competitive advantage that ensures consistent, quality supply now and into the future for all plant-based proteins, in addition to increasing scale to further advantage ANF's low-cost operations.

This game-changing partnership will enable the business to take the plant-based world where it could never go before, allowing for the creation of food from seed and agriculture technologies that can be built for nutrition, functionality and sustainability. Additionally, AF will materially expand its consumer reach by leveraging ANF's global distribution platform.

"Upon meeting with Above Foods leadership, we knew what could be accomplished together through shared, common goals," commented J. Douglas Hines, ANF chairman and founder. "We're committed to leading change in the world's food supply and creating a global paradigm shift with product creation and a guarantee of unmatched sustainability and value."

As part of the partnership, Hines says a joint innovation group within the companies will be established, to be led by Kelly Krause, who will take on a new role as Chief Innovation Officer of ANF and work collaboratively to mold the company's future.

"With our proprietary ag-tech, food-tech and complete vertical integration, and ANF's world class team, sophisticated distribution platform, and market leading brand portfolio, we are excited to partner in creating the most sustainability, nutritious, affordable plant-based foods," added Martin Williams, president and chief innovation officer of Above Food.

Operating with a vision of providing affordable, sustainable and healthy sources of plant-based protein-rich foods to support the future health of people and planet, ANF has continued its drive to make a difference through innovation and ensuring future sustainability of the planet's fragile resources. The partnership with AF now provides a part that was missing  a direct sourcing supply  in what Mr. Lionel Kambeitz, executive chairman and co-founder of Above Food calls the "new ocean" in the plains of western Canada with a fleet driven by the fifth generation Kambeitz family, along with the company's 120+ years of family stewardship of the land.

For more information on Atlantic Natural Foods or its products, please visit www.atlanticnaturalfoods.com .

About AB O VE FOOD Corp.

Above Food Corp. is a first-of-its-kind plant-based food company that celebrates delicious products made with real ingredients, real nutrition, real flavor, and real transparency. Founded in Canada in 2020 by food production ecosystem veterans and visionary co-founders, Lionel Kambeitz, Donato Sferra, Tyler West and Martin Williams, Above Food's vision is to create a healthier world - one seed, one field, and one bite at a time. With a complete chain of custody of plant proteins, enabled by scaled operations and infrastructure in primary agriculture and processing, Above Food delivers food to businesses and consumers with unparalleled traceability, quantifiable sustainability, and superior nutrient density. For more information on Above Food, please visit www.abovefood.com or follow Above Food on Instagram ( @above_food ), Facebook ( Above Food ) and LinkedIn ( Above Food ).

About Atlantic Natural Foods

Headquartered in Nashville, N.C., Atlantic Natural Foods is the leading shelf stable manufacturer and provider of Loma Linda, TUNO, neat and Kaffree Roma brand products. Its mission is to provide affordable, sustainable and healthy sources of plant-based protein food for all lifestyles and people to live healthier, longer lives. The company operates its own manufacturing facility as well as a joint venture in Thailand. The brands are sold in 25,000 stores throughout the U.S. and in 30 countries, including the U.K., EU, South Africa and Australia. To learn more about Atlantic Natural Foods, please visit www.atlanticnaturalfoods.com or follow the brand on Facebook , Instagram or Twitter .

SOURCE Atlantic Natural Foods, LLC

Related Links

https://atlanticnaturalfoods.com/


ALPHARETTA, Ga., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Avanos Medical, Inc. (NYSE: AVNS) will webcast its conference call discussing financial results and business highlights for the third quarter 2021 on Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 9 a.m., ET. The company will issue a news release detailing its results before the market opens that same day.

The conference call will be hosted by Joe Woody, chief executive officer, and Michael Greiner, senior vice president and chief financial officer.

To join the live conference call, dial 877-240-5772 in the United States. A simultaneous webcast of the call and a related presentation will be accessible via the Investors section of the Avanos Medical website, https://avanos.investorroom.com/.

A replay of the conference call will be available Nov. 2 at noon ET by dialing 877-344-7529 in the United States and entering passcode 10160764. It will be available for one week. A replay of the webcast also will be accessible in the Investors section of the website, approximately one hour following the completion of the conference call.

About Avanos Medical, Inc.

Avanos Medical (NYSE: AVNS) is a medical device company focused on delivering clinically superior breakthrough solutions that will help patients get back to the things that matter. Headquartered in Alpharetta, Georgia, Avanos is committed to addressing some of today's most important healthcare needs, such as reducing the use of opioids while helping patients move from surgery to recovery. Avanos develops, manufactures and markets its recognized brands in more than 90 countries. For more information, visit www.avanos.com and follow Avanos Medical on Twitter (@AvanosMedical), LinkedIn and Facebook.

SOURCE Avanos Medical, Inc.

Related Links

https://avanos.com


Avantus acquired three specialty fastener companies over the last 22 months (including two during the pandemic)  Fastener Technology Corporation, California Screw Products, and Fastener Innovation Technology  and will continue to expand its range of C-Class components, both organically and via further acquisitions. With tremendous emphasis on operational excellence and customer service, the acquired accompanies have already achieved industry-leading performance in terms of quality, lead-times, on-time delivery, and customer responsiveness.

Avantus Aerospace is owned by Inflexion Private Equity and Auctus Industries. Inflexion is a leading European mid-market private equity firm, investing in high growth, entrepreneurial businesses with ambitious management teams and working in partnership with them to accelerate growth. Auctus Industries is a specialist investor in aerospace businesses.

Avantus Aerospace was advised by D.A. Davidson (Costa Mesa, CA), Goodwin Procter LLP (Santa Monica, CA) and Grant Thornton (Irvine, CA).

SOURCE Avantus Aerospace
CHAPEL HILL, N.C., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Bachelor's Degree Center ( https://www.bachelorsdegreecenter.org/ ), a free guide to traditional and online bachelor's degree programs in all disciplines, has released four rankings of the best Bachelor's in Environmental Science degree programs in the US:

25 Best Bachelor's in Environmental Science for 2022

( https://www.bachelorsdegreecenter.org/best-environmental-science-degrees/ )

15 Best Online Bachelor's in Environmental Science for 2022

( https://www.bachelorsdegreecenter.org/best-online-environmental-science-degrees/ )

10 Fastest Online Bachelor's in Environmental Science for 2022

( https://www.bachelorsdegreecenter.org/accelerated-environmental-science-degree/ )

10 Most Affordable Bachelor's in Environmental Science for 2022

( https://www.bachelorsdegreecenter.org/affordable-environmental-science-degrees/ )

The Top 3 Best Environmental Science Bachelor's Programs for 2022 are:

1. Stanford University - Stanford, CA

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Cambridge, MA

3. Duke University - Durham, NC

The Top 3 Best Online Environmental Science Bachelor's Programs for 2022 are:

1. Purdue University Global - West Lafayette, IN

2. University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign, IL

3. University of Florida - Gainesville, FL

A complete list of all institutions ranked is included at the end of this release.

"Many people now realize the complex relationship the planet and all its varied and interconnected systems have with the living creatures that call it home," the editors at Bachelor's Degree Center explain; "For those who wonder is a degree in environmental science worth it, the answer seems clearer now than it has ever been. The world seeks more people with an understanding of environmental science." According to the editors, "A bachelor's in environmental science provides students with a general, interdisciplinary degree that encompasses a multitude of disciplines. All these disciplines will deal primarily with the study of the environment through the lens of natural sciences." According to the editors, "An environmental science degree can start someone off on several career paths. The interdisciplinary nature of the degree means it lends itself well to just about anything related to the environment, which can represent basically anything."

Bachelor's Degree Center has been providing advice, resources, and rankings on the best traditional and online bachelor's degree programs since 2014. Completely independent and unbiased, BDC is working to be the ultimate resource for new high school graduates, working adults returning to school, and nontraditional students.

All Institutions in the Bachelor's Degree Center Environmental Science Degree Rankings (in alphabetical order)

American Public University - West Chester, WV

Arizona State University - Tempe, AZ

Bellevue University - Bellevue, NE

Boston College - Boston, MA

Columbia College (MO) - Columbia, MO

Columbia Southern University - Orange Beach, AL

Columbia University - New York, NY

Dartmouth College - Hanover, NH

Duke University - Durham, NC

Everglades University - Boca Raton, FL

Florida International University - Miami, FL

Grand Canyon University - Phoenix, AZ

Indiana University - Bloomington, IN

Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, MD

Maryville University - St. Louis, MO

Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Cambridge, MA

North Carolina Central University - Durham, NC

North Carolina State University - Raleigh, NC

Northern Arizona University - Flagstaff, AZ

Oregon State University - Corvallis, OR

Purdue University Global - West Lafayette, IN

Rice University - Houston, TX

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry - Syracuse, NY

Southern New Hampshire University - Manchester, NH

Stanford University - Stanford, CA

Texas A&M University - College Station, TX

Texas A&M University Commerce - Commerce, TX

Unity College - Unity, ME

University of Arizona - Tucson, AZ

University of California, Berkeley - Berkeley, CA

University of California, Davis - Davis, CA

University of California, Los Angeles - Los Angeles, CA

University of California, Santa Barbara - Santa Barbara, CA

University of Florida - Gainesville, FL

University of Illinois - Urbana-Champaign, IL

University of Maryland Global Campus - Adelphi, MD

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, MI

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill - Chapel Hill, NC

University of Pennsylvania - Philadelphia, PA

University of Texas at Austin - Austin, TX

University of Virginia - Charlottesville, VA

University of Washington - Seattle, WA

University of Wisconsin - Madison, Wi

Vanderbilt University - Nashville, TN

Virginia Wesleyan University - Virginia Beach, VA

Washington & Lee University - Lexington, VA

Washington State University - Pullman, WA

William & Mary - Williamsburg, VA

Media Contact:

Ava Ellis

Media Manager, Bachelor's Degree Center

[email protected]

https://www.bachelorsdegreecenter.org/

864-502-2906

SOURCE Bachelor's Degree Center

Related Links

http://https://www.bachelorsdegreecenter.org/


MEXICO CITY, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Carlos Hank Gonzalez, chairman of the Board of Directors of Grupo Financiero Banorte, called on the international financial sector Tuesday to take stronger action against climate change, saying "uncompromising collaboration" is needed to drive sustainable business efforts, support new economic opportunities and protect the planet.

"We face a crucial moment in history in taking climate action, including management of the social and biodiversity elements of the crisis. Our work must be accelerated and treated as a multi-thematic climate and sustainable development agenda," he said at a special International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) summit.

Carlos Hank Gonzalez was the only Mexican representative in the ICC's "Global Leaders for Climate Action" virtual forum, organized to set high-level private sector priorities for climate action. The ICC is seeking recommendations to inject renewed energy into the negotiations at COP26, the major United Nations meeting on global warming that begins Sunday in Glasgow.

Carlos Hank Gonzalez joined about 18 other international chief executives, business leaders and policymakers, including those from P&G, BP, IKEA, Enel Group, Nestle and other companies. The ICC wants to rally businesses to help keep the average global temperature from increasing 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

"Climate change poses a grave threat to humanity during these already challenging times, and resolution is only possible through uncompromising collaboration," the Banorte chairman said. "The time for debate is over. Fighting climate change cannot wait."

The financial sector must grasp the timeliness of the issue, he said, and work in ways to shift the flow of capital to sustainable and nature-positive activities through research and data tools. He said businesses should be encouraged to adopt comprehensive sustainability programs and goals in the same way they'd prioritize upgrading their internal technology.

He said innovation is key for the transition to a greener economy and the creation of sustainable prosperity, especially through the integration and management of the environmental, climate and social risks at the core of business strategies.

And banks play a vital role in that. "Financial institutions must identify the sectors and sub-industries whose operations, products and services, as well as their supply chains, are not aligned with sustainable development," he said. "Banks also should consider improving their environmental performance through green lending initiatives that lend more to firms that are part of the low-carbon economy."

As examples, he cited several Banorte initiatives and priorities as one of Mexico's largest financial groups, including the bank's sustainable investment fund and its social and environmental risk management system that evaluates risks and possible impacts on the environment and communities before financing any project.

Banorte's role in climate action extends to its participation in the Net Zero Banking Alliance and in the Principles for Responsible Banking as a founding signatory. It also has endorsed the Taskforce on Nature-related Financial Disclosures, an initiative to help financial services and other industries more closely assess nature-related risks and opportunities.

Banorte is "acutely aware of our vulnerabilities to the effects of climate change" and "has put sustainability at the heart of our operations. It is part of our DNA. And we are proud to contribute to a sustainable recovery and help others move toward nature-positive outcomes in the global financial flow," he said.

Looking ahead to the COP26 session that's aimed at moving countries toward the goals of the Paris Agreement and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change, he said that meeting must mobilize "players in the global economy to protect our planet against climate change and continue to embrace nature as a key element in that decarbonization drive."

"Countries must push ahead on ambitious emission cuts and climate plans and then follow through with that," he said.

About Grupo Financiero Banorte

Grupo Financiero Banorte is the largest Mexican financial institution. It offers financial services to individuals and companies through its businesses: banking, brokerage, fund operator, insurer, pension, leasing and factoring, warehouse, portfolio manager and the remittance company Uniteller. It also integrates the largest retirement savings fund in the country by asset management. Grupo Financiero Banorte is a public company listed on the main indicator of the Mexican Stock Exchange, and has 31,000 employees, more than 1,100 branches and 9,500 ATMs.

Website: carloshankgonzalez.com

Twitter: @CarlosHankG

Facebook:CarlosHankGonzalezBanorte

LinkedIn: carloshankgonzalez

Facebook: Grupo Financiero Banorte

Twitter: @GFBanorte_mx

LinkedIn: Grupo Financiero Banorte

Media contact

Francisco Rodriguez Daniel

Executive Director of Corporate Communication

[email protected]

SOURCE Fundacion Banorte, Fundacion Gruma and the U.S. Department of State
BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Black Kite , the standard in third-party cyber risk ratings, has won the CISO Choice Award for Risk Management for a second consecutive year. Granted by a distinguished panel of judges from the CISOs Connect community, the win comes just weeks after Black Kite was named the 2021 Risk Management Innovation of the Year by the Cybersecurity Breakthrough Awards.

Managing cyber risk across complex digital ecosystems is one of the biggest challenges organizations face today today, and 97% of organizations have been impacted by a cybersecurity breach within their supply chain. Since its inception in 2016, Black Kite has been dedicated to scaling third-party risk intelligence to prevent unrecognized risk.

"This recognition is a testament to our efforts in revolutionizing third-party risk intelligence," said Paul Paget, CEO at Black Kite. "As more attacks target the weakest links in supply chains, the cybersecurity community is looking for solutions that meet the evolving needs of these complex cyber ecosystems."

A first-of-its-kind vendor recognition program selected by a CISO Board of Judges , the CISO Choice Awards recognize differentiated solutions valuable to the CISO community and their organizations worldwide.

"It was an extremely competitive playing field with a record number of submissions," said Aimee Rhodes, CEO of CISOs Connect. "Nothing can replace the real-word insights that the CISO judges bring to the table when deciding on the top vendors."

The Cybersecurity Breakthrough Awards honor excellence and recognize the innovation, hard work and success in a range of information security categories. This year's program attracted more than 4,000 nominations from over 20 different countries throughout the world.

Since 2019, Black Kite has secured more than $33.1 million in venture capital investments, fueling momentum and increasing market penetration. Over the last year, Black Kite has more than doubled its employee headcount and customer base, with over 50 employees and 300+ customers worldwide.

About Black Kite

Black Kite redefines vendor risk management with the world's first global third-party cyber risk monitoring platform, built from a hacker's perspective. With 300+ customers across the globe and counting, we're committed to improving the health and safety of the entire planet's cyber ecosystem with the industry's most accurate and comprehensive cyber intelligence.

While other security ratings service (SRS) providers try to narrow the scope, Black Kite provides the only standards-based cyber risk assessments that analyze your supply chain's cybersecurity posture from three critical dimensions together: technical, financial, and compliance.

For more information, contact Adam Benson at [email protected] or 202.999.9104.

SOURCE Black Kite
BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Blue Cross) is introducing a new, consumer-directed health plan that offers members savings and rewards for making healthy choices, along with comprehensive in-person and telehealth coverage.

"Our members and employer customers have been asking for a new kind of health plan," said Blue Cross Chief Commercial Officer Patrick Gilligan. "We designed BlueFit HMO and PPO plans to meet the needs of consumers who are looking for a comprehensive, affordable plan that's easy and engaging to use anytime, anywhere."

BlueFit was developed with crowdsourced input from nearly 1,200 employers, employees and health care experts. The innovative plan offers comprehensive coverage including medical, mental health, dental, pharmacy, and wellness benefits, plus critical illness and accident coverage.

Employees with BlueFit are automatically enrolled in a health savings account (HSA) that is funded by employers with at least 30% of an employee's annual deductible.

Guided by personalized digital tips and reminders, employees with BlueFit can earn up to $600 in rewards deposited directly into their HSA when they participate in health and financial wellness programs. If an employee doesn't spend their HSA money in a given year, the funds can be rolled over. HSAs are known as triple tax advantaged: All contributions to an HSA are income tax-free, withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are income tax-free, and any interest earnings and investment growth from deposits are income tax-free.

Employees also can earn an additional $600 in reimbursements for participating in fitness and weight-loss programs -- double the industry average.

BlueFit also includes:

Access to all providers in Blue Cross' HMO or PPO network without a referral

Two online dental health consultations at no cost through the Toothpic teledentistry app and a free Philips Sonicare toothbrush

Access to 24/7 telehealth services for medical and mental health care via Well Connection, Blue Cross' telehealth platform

Personalized guidance from Blue Cross via the MyBlue online platform and Team Blue, Blue Cross' award-winning team of service experts and care management specialists who are ready to help

Timely digital reminders for routine check-ups and vaccinations

Access to Learn to Live, an online tool that provides support for social anxiety, depression, stress/anxiety/worry, insomnia, and substance use

BlueFit will be available to all fully insured employer accounts with 51 or more employees beginning Jan. 1, 2022.

About Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (bluecrossma.org) is a community-focused, tax-paying, not-for-profit health plan headquartered in Boston. We are committed to the relentless pursuit of quality, equitable and affordable health care with an unparalleled consumer experience. Consistent with our promise to always put our members first, we are rated among the nation's best health plans for member satisfaction and quality. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts

Related Links

http://www.bluecrossma.com


IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- BrandingBusiness, the global B2B brand strategy and design agency, today announced the appointment of Bob Kersten as Managing Director, San Francisco. This new, senior-level position reflects the expansion of the BrandingBusiness market presence both nationally and internationally.

Bob Kersten, BrandingBusiness

As Managing Director, San Francisco, Bob brings with him more than 20 years of high-level branding experience with Addison, Prophet, Brand Union and Landor, where he held several leadership roles, ultimately serving as Executive Director for key client relationships. During his 15-year tenure with Landor Bob lead engagements with Barclays Bank of the UK, AECOM, Accenture, Devon Energy, and LG of South Korea. He joins BrandingBusiness from Affinity Creative Group where he served as Managing Director.



"As we enter this next phase of our evolution, we are delighted to have an individual of Bob's caliber lead our representation in San Francisco," said Ryan Rieches, Founding Partner and CEO of BrandingBusiness. "With his wide experience as a senior executive at some of the world's leading branding companies, Bob will also play an instrumental role as a member of our brand strategy team, helping to take our capability to a new level of excellence to meet the increasingly complex and demanding requirements of our clients."



"In many ways, this feels like a homecoming," said Bob Kersten. "BrandingBusiness has an incredible reputation in the B2B world for research-based, creative solutions to complex business problems. I have tremendous passion for the B2B world and very much look forward to working with the global BrandingBusiness team and their impressive roster of clients in driving growth and momentum."



About BrandingBusiness

BrandingBusiness is a specialist B2B brand strategy firm. For more than 25 years we have worked with ambitious, growth-driven disruptors and some of the world's great companies and brands to help them flourish and stay relevant in a world of dynamic change. Our Founding Partners are sought-after brand strategists who have led engagements with clients such as ABM Industries, American Airlines, Cisco, Elsevier, First American, Huawei, Teledyne, Hitachi, Saint-Gobain and Tech Data.

To learn more, please visit brandingbusiness.com.

Media Contact:

Jill Purzycki

(949) 457-7360

[email protected]

SOURCE BrandingBusiness

Related Links

http://brandingbusiness.com


LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Brave Robot , the animal-free CPG brand that puts the planet first, is expanding with the launch of its second product line, Climate Hero Super Cake mix, direct to consumers, today. This ethically indulgent product by The Urgent Company is creating a better future that tastes delicious too.

Brave Robot Climate Hero Super Cake Mix

Climate Hero Super Cake is meeting the demand for planet-positive options without sacrificing taste. The shelf-stable animal-free mix is quick and easy to make: just add water and oil, no eggs required. Made with Perfect Day's animal-free milk protein, which is also used in Brave Robot's beloved ice cream, Climate Hero Super Cake is unbelievably moist and decadent. The same animal-free dairy protein that makes the brand's ice cream so creamy is used in this new application to replace the equivalent of three eggs and to make the cake mix tender and moist. Brave Robot's Climate Hero Super Cake is also sustainably packaged in a 100% compostable bag. Each 17.5oz bag makes two 8-inch round cakes.

Brave Robot, the fastest growing brand in the plant-based ice cream category (Source: IRI Total US Food - 12W) with over a million pints sold in its first year of business, comes from The Urgent Company. A new type of CPG company focused on harnessing revolutionary innovation and science, The Urgent Company uses innovative ingredients (like Perfect Day's non-animal whey protein) to create next-generation, sustainable animal-free foods. A recent Life Cycle Assessment of Perfect Day's protein production found that if just 5% of dairy products were made with Perfect Day protein, the equivalent of the greenhouse gas emissions from 140K roundtrip flights between SFO and JFK would be saved.

"We're thrilled to provide more indulgent dessert options that are not just exceptional in flavor and texture, but also kinder to the Earth," said August Vega, President of Brave Robot. "No one should have to compromise their values to indulge in a delicious treat."

Kosher-certified OUD and lactose-free, Climate Hero Super Cake ($18 for 1 bag or $36 for 3 bags, inclusive of shipping) is more than just yellow cake - it can easily be made into recipes like chocolate whoopie pies, carrot cake, coffee cake, chocolate peanut butter brownies, and more (recipes included with order).

For more information and to order, visit www.braverobot.co .

ABOUT BRAVE ROBOT

Brave Robot is the premier brand from The Urgent Company, a new type of CPG company with a singular focus on using innovation and science to create revolutionary and sustainable animal-free foods with less impact on the planet. Unlike plant-based alternatives that don't taste like dairy, Brave Robot is evolving the way ice cream is made to be both sustainable and delicious. Made with animal-free whey protein from Perfect Day, Brave Robot isn't like dairy. It is dairy, just without the cow - meaning it's also cruelty free, lactose free, and vegan. Brave Robot has also launched Climate Hero Super Cake, an animal-free mix that can be quickly, easily made into an array of dessert favorites. Visit BraveRobot.Co to learn more.

Media contact:

Kaylee Richards

[email protected]

212-226-2922

SOURCE Brave Robot
COSTA MESA, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Bridge Bank today announced it has increased the credit facility provided last year to YES Leasing, a Miami-based commercial equipment leasing company specializing in funding business owners with challenged credit. The increased credit facility will provide additional capacity to support the continued growth of YES Leasing's portfolio.

"Bridge Bank's depth of knowledge about our business has been instrumental in supporting our strong growth," said Quade Koffler, chief operating officer at YES Leasing. "We look forward to continuing our relationship with Bridge Bank for years to come."

"The increase to our credit facility enables YES Leasing to better serve our referral partners," added Tony Syracuse, chief commercial officer at YES Leasing. "With Bridge Bank's backing, YES Leasing endeavors to expand our position in the market with a pipeline of programs for new asset verticals and credit tiers."

"Bridge Bank is sharply focused on helping our clients achieve their goals," said Justin Vogel, senior vice president in Bridge Bank's Southern California Capital Finance Group. "Our clients' success is our success. We look forward to helping YES Leasing grow and succeed for many years into the future."

The Capital Finance Group at Bridge Bank offers a range of asset-based and factoring solutions, including accounts receivable, inventory and invoice financing, to provide lines of credit and working capital. The group's expertise supports companies in manufacturing, professional services, retail, technology and more that are experiencing unusual market conditions that might hamper their ability to adhere to traditional covenants and credit structures.

About Bridge Bank

Bridge Bank, a division of Western Alliance Bank, Member FDIC, helps business clients realize their ambitions. Founded in 2001 in Silicon Valley, Bridge Bank offers a better way to bank for small- to mid-market businesses across many industries, as well as emerging technology companies and the private equity community. Geared to serving both venture-backed and non-venture-backed companies, Bridge Bank delivers a broad scope of financial solutions including capital, equipment and working capital credit facilities, venture debt, treasury management, asset-based lending, SBA and commercial real estate loans, ESOP finance and a full line of international products and services. Based in San Jose, Bridge Bank has 16 offices in major markets across the country along with Western Alliance Bank's powerful array of specialized financial services. Western Alliance Bank is the primary subsidiary of Phoenix-based Western Alliance Bancorporation, with approximately $50 billion in assets. Western Alliance is again #1 best-performing of the 50 largest public U.S. banks in the new S&P Global Market Intelligence listing for 2020 and ranks high on the Forbes "Best Banks in America" list year after year. For more information, visit bridgebank.com.

About YES Leasing

YES Leasing is a small-ticket equipment leasing company specializing in commercial equipment for business owners with challenged credit. Founded in 1975, YES Leasing is a reliable funding source for referral partners across the United States. YES Leasing has built its portfolio by funding leases directly and does not require strong credit or excessive collateral. For more information, visit www.yesleasing.com or contact [email protected].

SOURCE Bridge Bank

Related Links

http://www.bridgebank.com


BURLINGTON, Vt., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Champlain College Online today announced findings from its survey, Adult Viewpoints 2021: The Cybersecurity Skills Gap and Barriers to Entry, which found that nearly 80% of American adults took action to protect themselves following recent cyber events and close to 30% of non-cyber workers were willing to consider a cyber career.

The study highlighted an increased interest in cybersecurity and cybersecurity education, but it also brought to light barriers preventing potential cyber professionals from launching careers in the in-demand space that's ripe with job opportunities. The study revealed three distinct barriers  high expectations of prior training, lack of diversity and inclusion, and toxic work environments. Of non-cyber respondents, 54% feel that high expectations for past training or experience impede them from entering the cybersecurity space. Of the respondents who showed interest in a cyber career, 56% said employer-sponsored training and education would motivate them to pursue the path.

"It's clear that adults are interested in pursuing a career change to cybersecurity, which is promising given the more than 460,000 job openings across the United States alone," said Kathleen Hyde, Cybersecurity Program Chair at Champlain College Online. "When looking to further their education to support this change, it's important that adults find a program that not only teaches them cybersecurity foundations but also provides networking, non-technical skills, and continuous learning, instilling the flexibility required for the dynamic space."

The survey also highlighted how adults have reacted to recent cyber events. From the SolarWinds breach in December 2020 to the multiple attacks in 2021 that have affected both the public and private sectors, the public's awareness of cyber threats has increased. Nearly 80% of survey respondents have acted in response to recent cyber events, with the most frequent actions including updating passwords or using two-factor authentication.

"Any adult that uses technology should be aware of cybersecurity risks. Many respondents are taking action, but cyber gaps remain," said Sergio Tenreiro de Magalhaes, Associate Professor at Champlain College Online. "Demand for cyber professionals and lack of diversity in the cyber workforce are major issues. It's crucial we work to close these gaps, including through a more equitable workplace that considers non-traditional IT backgrounds, and cyber education that encourages and builds confident, adaptable cyber professionals."

Additional survey findings include:

Of those in the field, 86% who identify as cybersecurity hiring managers indicate that the market expects entry-level cyber candidates to have vast industry experience. Overall, 72% of respondents estimate some type of university accreditation is required to enter the cybersecurity field.

Of the respondents who showed interest in pursuing a career in cybersecurity, 56% said employer-sponsored training and education would motivate them to pursue the path, with 46% noting tuition assistance from an employer as a motivating factor.

Lack of diversity remains another major barrier  90% of respondents believe it's important to increase diversity in the cyber workforce.

Wage disparities were a main challenge to diversity acknowledged by respondents  28% believe minorities earning lower wages than similarly skilled colleagues is the main barrier impacting a diverse cyber workforce.

In total, 81% of respondents feel that toxic work environments would prevent them from exploring a career in cybersecurity. Of respondents likely to pursue a career in cyber, 44% say toxic work environments impede their decision to explore cybersecurity careers.

According to respondents, the top two measures needed to improve cybersecurity are investing in cybersecurity internally and increasing the number of people educated in cybersecurity.

Problem-solving (81%) and communication (72%) were viewed as the most "essential" cybersecurity skill sets across all respondents.

Champlain College is a nationally recognized leader in cybersecurity and digital forensics education and home to the Senator Patrick Leahy Center for Digital Investigation & Cybersecurity. It's been designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the U.S. National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security. With twelve fully online cybersecurity programs and on-campus majors and minors to choose from, our programs provide cutting-edge education and virtual hands-on learning application to prepare future cyber leaders for the workforce.

Survey Methodology

Champlain College Online commissioned the Adult Viewpoints 2021: The Cybersecurity Skills Gap and Barriers to Entry survey, conducted online by national market research firm Full Circle Research. The survey examined why an industry projected to grow 33% through 2030 with guaranteed job security is seeing a major skills gap. It was conducted online among a random sample of 1,011 adults aged 20-55. Respondents were screened to ensure that they were employed and U.S. citizens.

About Champlain College Online

As one of the first online programs in the United States, we are proud to be part of the distinguished history of regionally accredited, not-for-profit Champlain College, founded in Burlington, Vermont in 1878.

Champlain College Online is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as a leader in online higher education. Our nationally recognized programs address industry trends and critical skills gaps. We serve more than 3,000 students through 60+ online undergraduate and graduate degrees, certificates, and stackable credentials in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, business, healthcare, and information technology.

Through our workforce development program called truED, we partner with some of the nation's leading businesses and organizations in a bold reimagining of workplace learning that enables employees to flourish and organizations to grow. For more information, visit online.champlain.edu.

SOURCE Champlain College

Related Links

http://www.champlain.edu


NEW YORK, Oct. 26 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Holborn Corporation (Holborn), a U.S.-based independent reinsurance broker, announced today that Chuck Chamness has joined the company's Board of Directors.

Holborn is pleased to announce that Chuck Chamness has joined its Board of Directors as an independent director. Most recently, Chuck served 18 years as President and CEO of the National Association of Mutual Insurance Companies (NAMIC), a property/casualty insurance trade association with more than 1,500 member companies. Through the combination of advocacy, public policy and member services, Chuck helped position NAMIC as the leading U.S. property/casualty insurance trade association. During his NAMIC tenure, Chuck served as chair of NAMIC Insurance Company, a professional liability insurer, Chair of the St Baldrick's Foundation (the nation's largest private funder of pediatric cancer research grants) and as a board member of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Chuck has testified before U.S. House and Senate committees on insurance-related topics ranging from the Dodd-Frank Act to Hurricane Katrina. Before joining NAMIC, he worked for ten years in Washington, D.C., including serving in the George H.W. Bush administration as Deputy Assistant Secretary for public affairs under HUD Secretary Jack Kemp.

In addition to Holborn, Chamness serves on the boards of a primary insurance company and an independent rating bureau. He holds a B.A. from Indiana University, Bloomington and received the Bicentennial Medal for distinguished service to the university in 2020.

"We are delighted to have Chuck join our Board. His arrival further demonstrates Holborn's commitment to serving the U.S. P&C Mutual Insurance Industry," said Mr. Frank Harrison, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer. "His integrity, leadership capabilities, and keen sense of family and charity match up well with our values. His industry experience is a tremendous asset to our firm as we continue to serve our clients and commence our next 100 years."

"I'm excited to join the board of Holborn and to contribute to the great culture of client service it has established over more than a century as an independent broker," said Mr. Chamness. "I know many Holborn clients from my career in service to the mutual insurance industry, and I appreciate Holborn's alignment with these companies and the firm's outstanding team, which is known for generating long-term relationships and client success."

About Holborn

Holborn Corporation (Holborn) is a privately held independent reinsurance brokerage firm established in 1920. Holborn's offerings include advanced analytic tools, global market access, and responsive services with a commitment to integrity and focus on long-term trust-based relationships. By adopting an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 1998, Holborn became exclusively owned by its employees. For additional information, please visit www.holborn.com.

Media Contact:

Ashley Carney

[email protected]

SOURCE Holborn Corporation

Related Links

http://www.holborn.com


LITTLE ROCK, Ark., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Circumference Group, a unique, operationally-focused investment firm led by former Endurance International CEO Jeff Fox, today named Kurt Silverman, Luca Sechi and Virgil Prewitt to newly created leadership positions focused on growing the firm's private investing strategy. In their roles, Mr. Silverman, Mr. Sechi and Mr. Prewitt will leverage their significant operational and strategic experience to further strengthen Circumference Group's ability to provide support to its partner companies.

Circumference Group invests in both public and private companies, providing committed long-term capital and ongoing support to help its partners build sustainable and successful businesses. The firm uses its collective operational and investment experience to ensure its partner companies integrate relentless customer focus across all business functions.

"At Circumference Group, we believe the long-term success of a company is based on its ability to deliver sustainable value to customers," said Mr. Fox, CEO and Founder, Circumference Group. "I have personally worked with Kurt, Luca and Virgil in multiple situations over the last decade, and I am thrilled to welcome them to Circumference Group as we continue to expand our investing platform."

Kurt Silverman

Kurt Silverman serves as Chief Technology Officer of Circumference Group, focusing on technology assessment and strategic review while simultaneously guiding the technology execution of private portfolio companies. He brings to Circumference Group more than 35 years designing, developing, implementing, managing, and selling mission critical global B2C and B2B platforms for the internet, media, communications, energy and e-commerce industries.

Prior to joining Circumference Group, Mr. Silverman held senior positions at Endurance International, Limelight Networks, Convergys, Comverse, CSG International, Lucent, Bell Labs and Kenan Systems. He also serves as a research advisor for Cybersecurity at MIT Sloan School of Management. Mr. Silverman holds a master's degree in Management Information Systems from M.I.T. Sloan School of Management and a bachelor's degree in Economics from M.I.T.

Luca Sechi

Luca Sechi serves as Chief Strategy Officer of Circumference Group, where he leads the firm's efforts to expand its investment universe to private and early-stage opportunities. In this role, he also helps to assess investments in the technology sector, focusing on digital marketing, SaaS, and the Small and Medium Business market. Mr. Sechi brings to Circumference Group more than fifteen years of experience in developing the strategic vision for scaled technology companies, as well as the proven ability to gain deep industry and competitive insights by leveraging first and third-party research and operational data.

Prior to his role at Circumference Group, Mr. Sechi spent almost ten years at Endurance International, where he held increasingly senior roles in strategic partnerships, product development, and corporate strategy. He also is a member of several expert networks and is a regular speaker at SaaS and Digital Marketing Industry events. Mr. Sechi holds a master's degree in Corporate Strategy from Bocconi School of Management and a bachelor's degree in Business and Administration from the Catholic University of Milan, Italy.

Virgil Prewitt

Virgil Prewitt serves as Circumference Group's Principal Architect, conducting technology and operations research and analysis to support the firm's investing decisions. He has more than 35 years of software creation and assessment experience, covering the entire lifecycle of software development, deployment, monitoring and support.

Before joining Circumference Group, Mr. Prewitt was Principal Architect at Limelight Networks, where he was responsible for the video, storage and function-as-a-service development organizations. He previously served as an Enterprise Cloud Architect for Oracle Corporation, where he guided Fortune 500 companies on their journey to the cloud utilizing the Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, and the CTO of Trifecta Technologies, where he architected enterprise solutions utilizing the Salesforce solution.

About Circumference Group

Circumference Group is an investment firm designed to deliver superior risk-adjusted performance for its capital partners. The firm leverages the broad and deep operational experience of its team to thoroughly understand a target investment's current competitiveness and performance and the execution risks that may prevent it from reaching its performance potential. Circumference Group invests when its organizational insight, operational intelligence and strategic perspective identify pathways to significant value creation with mitigated risk.

Circumference Group was founded in 2009 by a team of veteran business operators and investors led by Jeff Fox, a proven executive who has served in multiple leadership roles including CEO of Endurance International Group, CEO of Convergys Corp. and COO of Alltel Wireless. For over a decade, Circumference Group has successfully invested in the public and private markets utilizing its Core Value Assessment (CVA), a proprietary framework that evaluates a company's growth and cash flow potential, as well as its organizational and operational strengths and weaknesses. The CVA underpins all of Circumference Group's investment strategies. For more information please visit www.CircumferenceGroup.com .

SOURCE Circumference Group

Related Links

www.circumferencegroup.com


RESTON, Va. and WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Class Technologies Inc. , the company transforming virtual education by adding teaching and learning tools to Zoom, and Carahsoft Technology Corp. , The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, today announced that Carahsoft will distribute Class software to the U.S. Public Sector.

Built on the Zoom Meetings platform, Class offers K-12 and Higher Education institutions and Government agencies everything they need to facilitate instruction and improve engagement in the virtual classroom. Class replicates the best of in-person learning and enables instructors to virtually perform many of the activities that happen in a real classroom. These include the ability to track attendance and participation, deliver assignments and quizzes, automatically grade work, and enhance learner engagement through individual and group facilitation. Class reduces the friction associated with using disparate tools to teach and learn online.

"The addition of Class to our Learning Technology Group allows us to provide K-12 and Higher Education institutions with solutions that enrich, connect, and improve virtual teaching and learning environments," said Craig P. Abod, Carahsoft President. "We look forward to working with Class and our resellers to transform online classrooms through the Zoom Meetings platform."

Carahsoft serves as the Master Government Aggregator and largest worldwide distributor for Zoom, and now as Class' selected distributor, Carahsoft will expand the company's North American footprint by bringing its software to Government and Education markets through its robust reseller network. Carahsoft will lead the effort to add Class software to an extensive list of government procurement vehicles and contracts, thus making the purchasing process quicker and easier.

"State, county, and district education leaders are searching for tools to enhance engagement and improve student outcomes across hybrid and virtual settings, which is precisely the reason we developed Class," said Michael Chasen, education software pioneer and Class co-founder and CEO. "Carahsoft has demonstrated a long-term commitment to serving the public education sector with best of breed learning and video communications platforms, and we're very pleased to partner with the same team that has successfully grown Zoom's public sector."

Class Technologies software is available through Carahsoft's NCPA Contract NCPA01-86, OMNIA Partners Contract #R191902, Office of General Services - New York Contract #22802, and through the company's reseller partners. For more information, contact the Class team at Carahsoft at (833) 544-9666 or [email protected] .

About Carahsoft

Carahsoft Technology Corp. is The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider, supporting Public Sector organizations across Federal, State and Local Government agencies and Education and Healthcare markets. As the Master Government Aggregator for our vendor partners, we deliver solutions for Cybersecurity, MultiCloud, DevSecOps, Big Data, Artificial Intelligence, Open Source, Customer Experience and more. Working with resellers, systems integrators and consultants, our sales and marketing teams provide industry leading IT products, services and training through hundreds of contract vehicles. Visit us at www.carahsoft.com .

About Class Technologies Inc.

Class is software developed by Class Technologies Inc., a company founded by education software pioneer Michael Chasen. Class adds teaching and learning tools to Zoom and makes the virtual classroom feel like a real classroom. It helps teachers take attendance, hand out assignments, give a quiz or test, grade work, proctor exams, talk one-on-one with a student, and more. Class is headquartered in Washington, DC with staff around the world. Schedule a demo at class.com and follow us on Instagram and Twitter at @WeAreClassTech.

Zoom is a trademark of Zoom Video Communications, Inc. Class Technologies Inc. and its product Class are not sponsored, endorsed, or otherwise affiliated with Zoom.

SOURCE Class Technologies Inc.
nThrive and TransUnion Healthcare are each committed to helping clients achieve stronger financial outcomes. The combined entity will offer healthcare organizations and payers a complete end-to-end RCM technology and software solution, giving customers increased confidence and predictability in payment optimization. This acquisition furthers nThrive's commitment to better serve the healthcare community by increasing revenue assurance and improving revenue staff efficiency while lessening administrative burden so that providers can focus on higher quality care and outcomes for patients.

"We are thrilled to welcome TransUnion Healthcare's colleagues and clients to the nThrive family," said Hemant Goel, CEO of nThrive. "We have enjoyed a long-standing commercial partnership with TransUnion Healthcare and both organizations are rooted in complementary missions and cultures. nThrive is focused on designing healthcare technology that delivers tangible outcomes for our clients. As we continue on our mission to help eliminate leakage and waste from healthcare revenue cycles, we look forward to bringing TransUnion Healthcare into the fold to serve our clients as a unified and integrated organization."

"There is a long and rich history between these two organizations, and we could not be more excited about the opportunity to create an end-to-end leader in the RCM software and technology category," said Behdad Eghbali, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Clearlake and Paul Huber, Principal at Clearlake. "We have been focused on a buy-and-build thesis to scale our SaaS platform investment in nThrive and are eager to leverage Clearlake's O.P.S. framework and resources to support management on this technology platform as they continue to drive meaningful value for clients and execute on accelerated growth plans."

"We are proud to have built TransUnion Healthcare into a formidable platform in the healthcare space," said Chris Cartwright, President and CEO of TransUnion. "nThrive's leadership in healthcare revenue cycle management makes it an ideal home for the TransUnion Healthcare business, and we look forward to a seamless transition for TransUnion Healthcare's customers and employees."

Centerview Partners LLC served as financial advisor and Latham & Watkins LLP served as legal counsel to TransUnion.

Debt financing supporting the transaction was provided by J.P. Morgan, Deutsche Bank, Golub, Barclays, BMO Capital Markets, Credit Suisse, and Jefferies. Sidley Austin LLP served as legal counsel to Clearlake and nThrive.

About nThrive

nThrive provides healthcare revenue cycle management SaaS solutions, offering patient access, charge integrity, claims management, contract management, machine learning & robotic process automation, data & analytics, and education software solutions to more than 900 hospitals and health systems in North America, including 37 of the 40 largest healthcare providers in the U.S.

nThrive's end-to-end software platform helps healthcare organizations increase revenue, reduce costs, expand cash collections, and ensure regulatory compliance across the entire revenue cycle continuum. For more information, please visit https://www.nthrive.com/.

About TransUnion (NYSE: TRU)

TransUnion is a global information and insights company that makes trust possible in the modern economy. We do this by providing a comprehensive picture of each person so they can be reliably and safely represented in the marketplace. As a result, businesses and consumers can transact with confidence and achieve great things. We call this Information for Good.

A leading presence in more than 30 countries across five continents, TransUnion provides solutions that help create economic opportunity, great experiences, and personal empowerment for hundreds of millions of people.

http://www.transunion.com/business

About TransUnion Healthcare

TransUnion Healthcare, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of TransUnion, makes trust possible by creating simplicity and transparency throughout the healthcare ecosystem to improve health and financial outcomes. TransUnion Healthcare is expected to generate approximately $190 million of revenue in 2021 at a mid-40 percent Adjusted EBITDA margin. TransUnion Healthcare helps over 1,850 hospitals and 650,000 physicians collectively recover more than $1.2 billion annually in revenue. TransUnion Healthcare's Revenue Protection solutions leverage comprehensive data, accurate insights and industry expertise to engage patients early, ensure earned revenue gets paid and optimize payment strategies.

https://www.transunion.com/industry/healthcare

About Clearlake

Clearlake Capital Group, L.P. is an investment firm founded in 2006 operating integrated businesses across private equity, credit, and other related strategies. With a sector-focused approach, the firm seeks to partner with management teams by providing patient, long-term capital to businesses that can benefit from Clearlake's operational improvement approach, O.P.S. The firm's core target sectors are technology, industrials, and consumer. Clearlake currently has approximately $50 billion of assets under management and its senior investment principals have led or co-led over 300 investments. The firm has offices in Santa Monica and Dallas. More information is available at www.clearlake.com and on Twitter @ClearlakeCap.

TransUnion Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on the current beliefs and expectations of TransUnion's management and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements. Any statements made in this press release that are not statements of historical fact, including statements about our beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements include information concerning possible or assumed future results of operations, including our guidance and descriptions of our business plans and strategies. These statements often include words such as "anticipate," "expect," "guidance," "suggest," "plan," "believe," "intend," "estimate," "target," "project," "should," "could," "would," "may," "will," "forecast," "outlook," "potential," "continues," "seeks," "predicts," or the negative of these words and other similar expressions.

Factors that could cause TransUnion's actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements include: the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the timing of the recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic; the possibility that the expected benefits of the proposed TransUnion Healthcare divestiture will not be realized, or will not be realized within the expected time period; failure to obtain governmental approvals of the proposed divestiture of TransUnion Healthcare in the expected time period, or at all; the impact of the proposed divestiture of TransUnion Healthcare on TransUnion's businesses and the risk that consummating the proposed divestiture of TransUnion Healthcare may be more difficult, time-consuming or costly than expected; the possibility that the proposed divestiture of TransUnion Healthcare does not close, including failure to satisfy the closing conditions; risks related to the distraction of management from ongoing business operations and other opportunities due to the proposed divestiture of TransUnion Healthcare; business disruption related to the proposed divestiture of TransUnion Healthcare; the effects of pending and future legislation and regulatory actions and reforms; macroeconomic and industry trends and adverse developments in the debt, consumer credit and financial services markets and other macroeconomic factors beyond TransUnion's control; risks related to TransUnion's indebtedness, including TransUnion's ability to make timely payments of principal and interest and TransUnion's ability to satisfy covenants in the agreements governing its indebtedness; and other one-time events and other factors that can be found in TransUnion's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, and any subsequent Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or Current Report on Form 8-K, which are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and are available on TransUnion's website (www.transunion.com/tru) and on the Securities and Exchange Commission's website (www.sec.gov). Many of these factors are beyond our control. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release speak only as of the date of this press release. We undertake no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect the impact of events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this press release.

nThrive Media Contact:

Audra Murphy

717-476-4864

[email protected]

Clearlake Media Contact:

Lambert & Co.

Jennifer Hurson

845-507-0571

[email protected]

TransUnion Media Contact:

Dave Blumberg

312-972-6646

[email protected]

SOURCE nThrive; Clearlake Capital Group, L.P.

Related Links

http://www.nthrive.com


ORWIGSBURG, Pa., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Clearly Clean Products, LLC, a recyclable food tray manufacturer, today announced it ranked second on Lehigh Valley Business's 2021 Fastest Growing Companies list.

Clearly Clean Products LLC

Nominated companies must be headquartered in Greater Lehigh Valley (Berks, Carbon, Lehigh, lower Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, upper Bucks, Schuylkill or Warren counties). They are ranked according to revenue growth over a three-year period, with both dollar and percentage increases taken into consideration. The ranking formula, coordinated by Baker Tilly, leads to the recognition of both large and small companies. Eligible companies must have revenue of at least $500,000 in two of the three fiscal years ending in 2018, 2019 and 2020 -- and must show revenue growth in 2020, as compared to 2018 (a three-year period).

"Clearly Clean is honored to be included in the top two of this prestigious list," said Jeff Maguire, managing partner at Clearly Clean. "This, coupled with our recent recognition as the Fastest Growing Manufacturer in NE Pennsylvania two years in a row, is truly a testament to our people. We are thankful to Lehigh Valley Business for compiling this list."

"This year's Fastest Growing Companies are to be commended for their revenue growth over the past three years. Our ranking formula takes into consideration dollar and percentage increases, allowing us to recognize both large companies and small companies that have shown sustained growth in the Lehigh Valley," said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, senior group publisher of Lehigh Valley Business. "Congratulations to all the winners."

Winners were honored Oct. 20 at an online celebration. Honorees are profiled in a magazine that was inserted into the Oct. 25 issue of Lehigh Valley Business and is online at LVB.com.

About Clearly Clean Products, LLC

Clearly Clean, known for its rolled-edge food trays, is an innovative manufacturer that creates eco-friendly products with features that surpass their non-sustainable alternatives. The company's committed to protecting its patented products and processes and developing other sustainable products. www.clearlyclean.com

About Lehigh Valley Business

Celebrating 35 years of journalistic excellence, Lehigh Valley Business is a multimedia news source that publishes a regular print and online edition and breaks news daily on its website, LVB.com. In addition, Lehigh Valley Business publishes special focus sections and products throughout the year including Reader Rankings, Fastest Growing Companies and Best Places to Work in PA. Lehigh Valley Business honors leading Pennsylvanians through annual awards events including Health Care Heroes, Women of Influence and Forty Under 40 and facilitates thoughtful discussion with market leaders through its webinar series. Its Digital Marketing Solutions helps customers with social media, search engine marketing and optimization, retargeting, email marketing and more. Lehigh Valley Business is part of BridgeTower Media, one of the country's leading business-to-business media companies with more than 40 print and digital publications in more than 25 U.S. markets.

CONTACT: Lisa Grimes

EMAIL: [email protected]

Phone: 888-769-8723 fax: 860-645-9364

SOURCE Clearly Clean Products LLC

Related Links

http://www.clearlyclean.com


CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In-depth analysis and data-driven insights on the impact of COVID-19 included in this global coating resins market report.

The coating resins market is expected to grow at a CAGR of over 5.17% during the period 20202026.

Key Highlights Offered in the Report:

Coating resin manufactures have immense opportunities across the globe due to the growth of several industries, such as architecture, automotive, marine, aerospace, construction, and infrastructure development, furniture, and paper. Solvent borne, water-borne and powder-borne are the different types of formulation. Among all the formulation types, the water-borne formulation segment dominated the market in 2020, accounting for more than 44% of the share. A major growth driver for the segment is the increasing adoption of water-borne formulations by several end-user industries which are green and eco-friendly coatings. Also, the rising stringency of government regulations for VOC emissions is expected to accelerate the growth of the segment. The architecture industry is the largest and projected to grow at the same trajectory in the coating resin market during the forecast period. APAC is a leading market for coating resins. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.64% during the forecast period.

Key Offerings:

Market Size & Forecast by Revenue | 20202026

Market Dynamics  Leading trends, growth drivers, restraints, and investment opportunities

Market Segmentation  A detailed analysis by formulation, coating type, end-use, and geography

Competitive Landscape  4 key vendors and 16 other vendors

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/coating-resins-market

Coating Resins Market  Segmentation

Solvent-borne coatings are made up of organic compounds that are applied on surfaces to prevent corrosion. These are liquefying agents that evaporate when they encounter oxygen. These coatings are less prone to environmental conditions such as humidity and high temperatures.

Acrylic coating resins are the most widely used resins in the coating industry. An acrylic resin is both thermoplastic and thermosetting resin that is primarily derived from acrylic acid, methacrylic acid, and acrylate monomers such as butyl acrylate. Methacrlyate monomers such as methyl methacrylate provide good weather resistance and color, gloss retention, excellent durability, and remarkable resistance against water and UV rays.

Architectural coatings are also known as a decorative coating. It is a coating formulation used to coat the interior & exterior of a building. The term architectural coatings comprise a wide range of coating including varnishes, paints, primers, sealers, inks, ceramics, and several others.

Coating Resins Market by Formulation

Water-Borne



Solvent-Borne



UV-Cured



Powder-Borne

Coating Resins Market by Coating Type

Acrylic



Epoxy



Alkyd



Urethane



Others

Coating Resins Market by End-Use

Architectural Coating



Industrial Coating



Marine Coating



Automotive Coating



Wood Coating



Coil Coating



Packaging Coating



Others

Coating Resins Market  Dynamics

Biobased epoxies are a new class of bio-sourced resins produced using various renewable resources, such as vegetable oils (soyabean oil, castor oil, linseed oil, canola oil, Karanja oil, hemp oil, cottonseed oil, rapeseed oil, and palm oil), saccharides, isosorbides, terpenes, rosin, natural rubber, tannins, and cardanol. Among all vegetable-based oils, soybean oil is the most feasible alternative to petroleum resources due to its unique composition of 51% linoleic acid, 25% oleic acid, 10% palmitic acid, 7% linolenic acid, and 5% stearic acid. Thus, the composition of soybean oil makes it an appropriate raw material to produce biobased epoxy resins. Over the past few years, the demand for bio-based epoxy resins is gaining tremendous momentum in the paints & coatings industry. The rapid depletion of fossil resources and environmental concerns regarding increasing greenhouse gas emissions have contributed to the higher adoption of renewable feed stocks.

Key Drivers and Trends fueling Market Growth:

High Growth Potential in Emerging Economies

Increasing Use of Powder Coating in Automotive Industry

Increasing Demand from Construction Industry

Soaring Demand from Automotive Industry

Coating Resins Market  Geography

North America is the fastest-growing market for coating additives. The region is the second-largest market for coating resins and accounted for a revenue share of 24.15% in 2020. The growth of various end-use segments, such as architecture, automotive, aerospace, paper, and furniture, is driving the North American coating additives market. In 2020, the US emerged as the biggest market for coating resins in North America. In 2019, the US civil aerospace exports were valued at $126.5 billion, a 4% decline from 2018, whereas the volume of defense exports increased by 10.5%. However, the COVID-19 outbreak adversely affected the aviation trade. Also, the decline in demand for passenger airlines declines has also impacted the production. However, the demand for defense airplanes has remained flat as the nation continued to invest in reinforcing the military. Thus, the high demand for defense airlines is expected to accelerate the demand for coating resins in the aerospace sector during the forecast period.

Get your sample today! https://www.arizton.com/market-reports/coating-resins-market

Coating Resins Market by Geography

North America

US



Canada

Europe

Germany



UK



France



Russia



Spain

APAC

China



India



Japan



South Korea



Thailand



Indonesia

Latin America

Brazil



Mexico

Middle East & Africa

South Africa



Saudi Arabia



UAE

Major Vendors

BASF SE

The Lubrizol Corporation

Evonik Industries

Clariant

Other Prominent Vendors

Arkema SA

Eastman Chemical Company

Angus Chemical Company

Lonza

Cabot Corporation

Solvay

Huntsman International LLC

Univar Solutions Inc

Daikin Industries Ltd

Hexion

Kukdo Chemical, Co. Ltd

DIC Corporation

Toray Industries, Inc

Mitsui Chemicals, Inc

Wacker Chemie AG

Helios Resins

Explore our chemicals & materials 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
SKANES FAGERHULT, Sweden, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Concentric AB today announces its operating result for the third quarter 2021, which is in line with the company's expectations. The Group's net sales is estimated to be MSEK 515 (324) and the operating income is expected to be MSEK 114 (57), resulting in operating margin 22.2% (17.5). All figures in this press release are preliminary and the final report for the third quarter 2021 will be published on November 3, 2021 at 08:00am CET.

Concentric released simultaneously a press release announcing the acquisition of EMP Inc. for MSEK 1,260 (MUSD 147) in a transformational deal to support Concentric's e-pump electrification strategy. EMP will be consolidated into Concentric's accounts, subject to any post-closing conditions, from 29 October 2021. For the 12-month period ending December 2021, EMP forecast revenues of about MSEK 1,095 (MUSD 127) and adjusted EBITDA of about MSEK 147 (MUSD 17).

This information is of the type that Concentric AB is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out below, at 07.00 CET on 26 October, 2021.

CONTACT:

For additional information please contact Marcus Whitehouse, telephone +44-121-445 6545

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/concentric-ab/r/concentric-ab-announces-preliminary-results-for-the-third-quarter-2021--in-connection-with-the-acqui,c3440041

The following files are available for download:

SOURCE Concentric AB
SEATTLE, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The term cosmetic packaging is generally used to refer to packaging of personal care and fragrance products. Personal care products are chemicals designed for hygienic skin care, deodorising and improving aesthetic appeal. Most products are sold in cosmetic tubes and similar containers. Some cosmetic packaging, such as cosmetic jars and bottles, are known as biodegradable or eco-friendly because they are designed to break down without causing any harm to the environment. The most common type of plastic used in cosmetic packaging is PP. Other plastics include PET and acrylic ingredients. HDPE plastic is ideal for skincare product packaging due to its durability, strength and high resistance to most acids

The global cosmetic packaging market is estimated to account for 35,777.0 Mn in terms of value by the end of 2027, witnessing a CAGR of 3.44%.

Get Sample PDF Report @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/request-sample/3058

Market Drivers:

Development and launch of new products is expected to propel growth of the global cosmetic packaging market over the forecast period. For instance, in September 2020, Amcor Ltd. announced the world's first recyclable flexible retort pouch, which uses Amcor's AmLite HeatFlex Recyclable solution.

Moreover, increasing adoption of global cosmetic packaging market is also expected to propel growth of the market. For instance, in October 2021, LR Health & Beauty launched LR Soul of Nature, a new brand that of fragrance products with recycled plastic and waste glass as packaging.

Market Opportunities

R&D in sustainable products is expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities for players in the global cosmetic packaging market. For instance, in December 2020, Aptar Beauty + Home, announced production of its most popular spray pumps in 100% PCR (Post Consumer Resin) for the redesign of natural pet care brand WildWash.

Launch new features is also expected to offer lucrative growth opportunities for players in the global cosmetic packaging market. For instance, in October 2021, North Pacific International announced to launch new features for foil and heat transfer labels at the Luxe Pack New York show.

Market Trends

Increasing sale of counterfeit cosmetics has led to high demand for anti-counterfeit cosmetics packaging. For instance, The 2020 Review of USTR Notorious Markets List for Counterfeiting and Piracy released by the Office of United States Trade Representative claimed that Indian shopping complexes such as Heera Panna in Mumbai sells counterfeit footwear, accessories, watches, apparel and cosmetics.

Players in the cosmetic industry are focused on adopting sustainable practices. For instance, in October 2021, Kao Corporation collaborated with Kose Corporation for wide range of fields, including people, society, and the environment, to identify solutions in the cosmetics business that can contribute to the realization of a sustainable society.

Major players operating in the global cosmetics packaging market are focused on launching new products to expand their product portfolio. For instance, in January 2021, Albea launched its new range of Basic Cap flip-top caps in 100% PE version.

Buy This Premium Report Now @ https://www.coherentmarketinsights.com/insight/buy-now/3058

Competitive Landscape:

Major players operating in the global cosmetics packaging market include ABC Packaging Ltd., Amcor Limited, Aptar Group, Inc., Albea S.A., Fusion Packaging, Gerresheimer AG, HCP Packaging, Libo Cosmetics Company, Ltd., Quadpack Industries, and RPC Group Plc.

Major players operating in the global cosmetics packaging market are focused on R&D of sustainable packaging. For instance, in October 2021, Royal DSM partnered with Albea, a cosmetic packaging supplier, to develop sustainable packaging for its sun care formulation prototypes.

Major players operating in the global cosmetics packaging market are also focused on launching new products to expand their product portfolio. For instance, in October 2021, APC Packaging launched sustainable mono-material system dropper & bottle.

Major players operating in the global cosmetics packaging market are focused on adopting M&A strategies to expand their product portfolio. For instance, in October 2021, Airlite Plastics acquired Cosmetic Specialties International (CSI), a U.S. manufacturer of cosmetic containers for the beauty and skin care industries.

Market Segmentation:

By Material Type:

Glass

Paper

Plastic

Metal

Others

By Container Type:

Jars

Tubes

Bottles

Pumps & Dispensers

Sachets

Others

By Application:

Skin Care

Hair Care

Makeup

Nail Care

By Declared Capacity:

Type 1 (Bellow 50 ml)

Type 2 (50 ml  100 ml)

Type 3 (100 ml  150 ml)

Type 4 (150 ml  200 ml)

Type 5 (Above 200 ml)

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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.

Contact Us:

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Senior Client Partner  Business Development

Coherent Market Insights

Phone:

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UK: +44-020-8133-4027

Japan: +81-050-5539-1737

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SOURCE Coherent Market Insights
SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Cresset Asset Management has expanded its presence in the western U.S. with the hires of Stuart Birdt and Amy MacLeod as Managing Directors, Wealth Advisors. Both Birdt and MacLeod will focus on advising Cresset's clients on asset allocation and investment strategies, helping them with all aspects of their wealth-planning needs. They previously served as Wealth Managers with Manchester Capital Management in Santa Barbara.

Birdt and MacLeod are based in Santa Barbara and will work with Cresset clients throughout the western United States. Cresset recently welcomed former Goldman Sachs advisor Sarah Marriott to serve as Managing Director, Wealth Advisor in the Los Angeles region.

"As Cresset continues to expand in the West, Amy and Stuart are exactly the type of talented advisors who can share Cresset's boutique family office experience with CEO founders, entrepreneurs, and multi-generational families of wealth in the region," said Doug Regan, Founding Partner and Co-Chairman of Cresset.

Stuart Birdt

Birdt brings more than 30 years of global investment experience to Cresset. While at Manchester Capital Management, he was responsible for managing the investment portfolios and financial relationships for the firm's family office clients. Prior to Manchester Capital, he was an Investment Officer and Portfolio Manager at a New York-based single-family office. Birdt began his career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs.

Birdt earned an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School with Highest Distinction (Baker Scholar) and his A.B., magna cum laude, in Economics from Dartmouth College. He also holds the Chartered Financial Analyst designation.

Birdt served as a member of the Financial Accounting Standards Advisory Council of FASB from 2016 to 2019. He has also been a mentor for more than a decade with American Corporate Partners (ACP), which assists post-9/11 veterans on their paths toward long-term careers.

"It is exciting to be joining a firm as innovative and client-centric as Cresset. Their commitment to transparency aligns with my values. I look forward to sharing Cresset's vision with prospective client families," Birdt said.

Amy MacLeod

MacLeod is responsible for managing clients' investment portfolios at Cresset, while also providing guidance on estate planning, wealth transfer strategies, and philanthropy. Prior to Cresset, MacLeod spent 13 years with Manchester Capital, servicing all aspects of family office relationships and helping implement investment solutions for clients who want to align their values with their investment portfolios. She also has experience practicing law in California and Colorado.

MacLeod received her M.B.A. and J.D. from The University of Chicago, and her A.B. in Economics from Princeton University. She serves on the boards of The Lobero Theatre Foundation and Montessori Center School, the audit committee of Santa Barbara's Community Environmental Council, and the judicial committee of USA Bobsled and Skeleton. She is also a member of Premier Professionals of Santa Barbara.

"It is an honor to join a firm that is truly building a new paradigm for wealth management. The resources Cresset offers to clients are amazing. Cresset is a firm that was built by clients, for clients, and that is incredibly refreshing," MacLeod concluded.

About Cresset

Cresset is an independent, award-winning multi-family office and private investment firm with $19.8 billion in assets under management (as of 10/01/2021). Cresset serves the unique needs of entrepreneurs, CEO founders, wealth creators, executives, and partners, as well as high-net-worth and multi-generational families. Our goal is to deliver a new paradigm for wealth management, giving you time to pursue what matters to you most.



Cresset offers access to a comprehensive suite of family office services, deeply personalized wealth management, investment advisory, planning, and other services through Cresset Asset Management, LLC. Cresset Partners, LLC, Cresset's private investing group, offers clients direct access to institutional-quality real estate, private equity, private credit, and other investment opportunities. Cresset Asset Management, LLC, and Cresset Partners, LLC, are SEC registered investment advisors. To learn more, visit https://cressetcapital.com.



Cresset refers to Cresset Capital Management and all of its subsidiaries and affiliates. Cresset Asset Management, LLC provides investment advisory, family office, and other services to individuals, families, and institutional clients. Cresset Partners, LLC provides investment advisory services strictly to investment vehicles investing in private equity, real estate and other investment opportunities. Cresset Asset Management, LLC, and Cresset Partners, LLC are SEC registered investment advisors.

Contact:

Michael Walsh

612-718-8952

[email protected]

SOURCE Cresset
DALLAS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Dallas-based intellectual property and business litigation law firm Caldwell Cassady & Curry has added Alexander Gras and Bjorn Blomquist as the firm's newest associates.

Both attorneys joined Caldwell Cassady & Curry after prior stents in the firm's summer associate program.

Mr. Gras joined the firm with prior courtroom experience in his roles with The University of Texas School of Law Immigration Clinic and the Law Offices of the Public Defender in Clovis, New Mexico.

Prior to graduating from The University of Texas School of Law with honors, Mr. Gras earned his undergraduate degree, magna cum laude, in political science with a pre-law concentration at Louisiana Tech University.

Mr. Blomquist graduated cum laude from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, where he was Managing Executive Editor of the Journal of Technology and Intellectual Property. During law school, he served as a judicial extern for the Hon. John Robert Blakey in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. He also was a national semifinalist in the 2020 AIPLA Giles S. Rich Moot Court Competition.

While completing his degree in chemical engineering at The University of Iowa with the highest distinction, Mr. Blomquist claimed first place honors in the American Institute of Chemical Engineers' 2018 Individual Design Competition.

Caldwell Cassady & Curry represents companies and individuals in high-stakes civil litigation, including patent infringement cases, trade secrets claims, fiduciary duty cases, class actions, and disputes involving company founders. The firm has tried and won some of the nation's top verdicts against the largest companies in the world. Learn more about the firm at www.caldwellcc.com.

For more information, contact Bruce Vincent at 214-763-6226 or [email protected].

SOURCE Caldwell Cassady & Curry
CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- After more than 18 years at Harris Associates, including 10 years as the director of U.S. research, Win Murray will retire at the end of July 2022. Mr. Murray has worked at Harris Associates, adviser to the Oakmark Funds and an affiliate of Natixis Investment Managers, since 2003. He has served as co-portfolio manager of the Oakmark Select Fund since 2013.

"I'm immensely proud of my time at Harris Associates, particularly in building the research intern and associate infrastructure that should serve our clients well for many years to come," said Mr. Murray.

"Win excelled as an analyst and later distinguished himself as director of U.S. research. In that latter role, he was instrumental in building a talent pipeline that attracted some of the best and brightest investment minds in the business," said co-chairman Tony Coniaris.

Alex Fitch will assume the director of U.S. research responsibilities, effective immediately. Mr. Fitch joined Harris Associates in 2011 as an analyst and became the associate director of U.S. research in 2019.

"Win's passion for recruitment and talent development has had an invaluable impact on the firm and he leaves us with an outstanding team of investment professionals," said Mr. Fitch. "On behalf of the firm, I want to thank Win for all he has done for Harris Associates and wish him all the best in the years ahead."

Mr. Murray will step down as co-portfolio manager of the Oakmark Select Fund with this announcement. Bill Nygren and Tony Coniaris will continue in their roles as co-portfolio managers of the Oakmark Select Fund. Mr. Nygren has been a portfolio manager of the Fund since 1996 and Mr. Coniaris became a portfolio manager for the Fund in 2013.

ABOUT OAKMARK AND HARRIS ASSOCIATES

The Oakmark Funds are a mutual fund family that utilizes a long-term value investment approach. Oakmark's investment philosophy centers on the belief that superior long-term results can be achieved through investing in companies priced at a significant discount to what Harris Associates believes is a company's intrinsic value, with strong growth prospects and owner-oriented management teams. Oakmark's assets under management totaled approximately $62 billion as of September 30, 2021. More information about the Oakmark Funds is available at oakmark.com.

Harris Associates L.P., a Chicago-based investment management firm founded in 1976, serves as the adviser to the Oakmark Funds. Harris Associates also manages U.S., international and global portfolios for institutional and high-net-worth investors worldwide. Including Oakmark, assets under management at Harris Associates totaled approximately $121 billion as of September 30, 2021. More information about Harris Associates is available at harrisassoc.com.

Before investing in any Oakmark Fund, you should carefully consider the Fund's investment objectives, risks, management fees and other expenses. This and other important information is contained in a Fund's prospectus and summary prospectus. Please read the prospectus and summary prospectus carefully before investing. For more information, please call 1-800-OAKMARK (625-6275).

ABOUT NATIXIS INVESTMENT MANAGERS

Natixis Investment Managers' multi-affiliate approach connects clients to the independent thinking and focused expertise of more than 20 active managers. Ranked among the world's largest asset managers1 with more than $1.4 trillion assets under management2 (1,182.5 billion), Natixis Investment Managers delivers a diverse range of solutions across asset classes, styles, and vehicles. The firm is dedicated to advancing sustainable finance and developing innovative Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) products. Natixis Investment Managers consults and partners with its clients and offers insight on markets and assumptions to better align strategies with long-term goals.

Natixis Investment Managers' distribution and service groups include Natixis Distribution, LLC, a limited purpose broker-dealer and the distributor of various U.S. registered investment companies for which advisory services are provided by affiliated firms of Natixis Investment Managers, Natixis Investment Managers S.A. (Luxembourg), Natixis Investment Managers International (France), and their affiliated distribution and service entities in Europe and Asia.

1 Cerulli Quantitative Update: Global Markets 2021 ranked Natixis Investment Managers as the 15th largest asset manager in the world based on assets under management as of December 31, 2020.

2 Assets under management ("AUM") as of June 30, 2021 is $1,402.5 billion. AUM, as reported, may include notional assets, assets serviced, gross assets, assets of minority-owned affiliated entities and other types of non-regulatory AUM managed or serviced by firms affiliated with Natixis Investment Manager. Excluding H2O Asset Management.

SOURCE Harris Associates L.P.

Related Links

www.harrisassoc.com


NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Embic Corporation, a leading developer of digital cognitive biomarkers, has secured grant funding from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) (Grant#: R43AG074769) to further validate their approach for identifying individuals who are accumulating abnormal levels of amyloid protein. Identifying such individuals through this inexpensive and non-invasive approach will significantly accelerate research into new treatments for Alzheimer's disease while enabling timely intervention and better treatment outcomes for patients in the disease's earliest stages.

In a preliminary study, Embic's digital cognitive biomarkers, which are generated from standardized neuropsychological assessment data, identified subjects who were both "cognitively normal" and "amyloid positive" with 88% - 90% accuracy. This NIA grant will underwrite an additional study to validate the preliminary results using publicly available data collected by the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). The successful replication and validation of the earlier results will confirm further utility of Embic's digital cognitive biomarkers, and establish a pragmatic and cost-effective approach for identifying persons with accumulating Alzheimer's disease pathology.

Commenting on the grant, Embic CEO, Dennis Fortier, said, "A key challenge in developing new Alzheimer's therapies is identifying subjects with both minimal cognitive deficits and levels of amyloid consistent with early-stage disease. The current approach of performing expensive and invasive PET scans on potential trial candidates, has a scan failure rate as high as 80% and adds undue time and expense to the research process. A brief test that pragmatically identifies candidates who are likely to have an amyloid-positive PET scan could identify a much larger pool of potential research subjects while significantly reducing the screen-fail rate in the enrollment process. This could ultimately bring new treatments to market sooner."

About Embic Corporation: Embic Corporation (www.embic.us) is a data analytics company that develops digital biomarkers for characterizing human cognition and brain health. The company's intellectual property includes multiple patents in the cognitive health field, a registry of individuals monitoring their brain health, and a proprietary dataset of two million cognitive assessments that facilitates ongoing R&D efforts.

SOURCE Embic Corporation
The emergency rule is the linchpin of the White House's six-pronged action plan for increasing COVID-19 vaccinations throughout organizations across the nation in a plethora of industries including health care and higher education. With OSHA another step closer to fully implementing the vaccine mandate, HR professionals are faced with timely challenges to collect and validate documentation related to vaccinations and legally permissible waivers across entire workforces, without violating federal, state, and international data privacy laws.

Questions to be answered by employers in coming days include:

Who received a vaccine and when?

Which vaccine was it?

Is a booster required?

For those who don't have the vaccine, do they have a legally permissible waiver?

Releasing its first COVID-19 solution in April 2020 to help organizations mitigate risk, CastleBranch has identified another stumbling block for these large employers. If the company's vaccination record review process is not carefully documented, creating a secure audit trail, they may be at risk for thousands of dollars in fines per incident in the event of an alleged violation, putting that company's economic survival in jeopardy.

In response to this client need, CastleBranch created RealVaccinationID.com providing digital and physical proof of COVID-19 vaccination status while helping companies create a secure audit trail. RealVaccination ID is a main element of CastleBranch's Essential Tool Kit, which includes diagnostic test tracking, a service the company has been providing for tracking other medical documents for decades.

Building a reliable audit trail of weekly test results to help organizations stay on track with vaccine and testing mandates, create a full audit trail, and avoid fines, it can be paired with RealVaccinationID.com for safe, secure, and convenient proof of vaccination, boosters, and waivers. The Essential Tool Kit features easy-to-access reporting capabilities and data exporting via secure cloud-based platforms to reduce heavy administrative burdens, helping employers implement a robust vaccine and testing mandate  all in strict compliance with complex government privacy regulations.

CastleBranch, an infectious disease screening company with more than 20 years of experience, built this Essential Tool Kit with inspiration and guidance from some of the world's leading epidemiologists and pandemic disease policy experts. It's also been endorsed by both the Organization for Associate Degree Nursing (OADN) and the American Association of Colleges of Nursing (AACN), the nation's two largest nursing healthcare associations, representing more than 80 percent of nursing education in the country.

For more information, visit the CB Real Vaccination ID resource page.

About CastleBranch:

Located in Wilmington, N.C., CastleBranch is one of the leading providers of vaccination, immunization tracking and diagnostic test tracking in the United States. With 25 years' experience, the company has collected, reviewed, and/or stored over 35 million medical documents for a majority of healthcare education programs across the nation. Their applications are designed to maintain strict compliance with state and federal privacy regulations; create a detailed audit trail along every step of the process; and to help organization handle the logistics of implementing a complex vaccine mandate at scale.

SOURCE CastleBranch

Related Links

www.castlebranch.com


"As a global leader in sustainable urban transportation and battery swapping refueling, Gogoro is committed to working with public utilities like TPC in Taiwan, and industry leaders like Enel X, to utilize the full potential of innovative technologies like time-shifted power to support the transition to renewable power, first in Taiwan and in additional markets in the future," said Horace Luke, founder and CEO, Gogoro. "By joining Enel X's digitalized VPP platform, we blend our ecosystems of innovative technologies together to support public utilities incorporating new renewable energy sources."

Enel X enables businesses to unlock significant value while supporting the renewable energy transition. It does this by aggregating distributed energy resources to create a 'virtual power plant' that provides dispatchable capacity to help support the electricity grid. Thanks to availability of sustainable mobility and demand response programs, there is a further possibility to integrate renewable power on electricity grids. These new resources will be increasingly important as Taiwan works to meet its net-zero clean energy targets, which will require the integration of large

amounts of variable renewable power generation into Taiwan's electricity system.

"We are excited to add Gogoro to our VPP network as we work to support the decarbonization and electrification of Taiwan's energy sector. Through our collaboration, Gogoro will be the first electric mobility provider in Taiwan to participate in a VPP, and they will participate alongside other progressive businesses across Taiwan that recognize this opportunity to earn a significant new revenue stream while furthering their sustainability objectives," said Jeff Renaud, Head of Enel X Asia and Oceania. "We see huge potential in connecting Gogoro's unique distributed network of battery swapping stations with our VPP platform, both here in Taiwan and potentially overseas. In doing so, we can together create new resources that support the renewable energy transition, while also accelerating the electrification of transport."

When called on by TPC, Enel X's VPP automatically adjusts its networks' power use  including Gogoro's GoStations  to help protect the grid and maintain stable electricity supply.

Gogoro Network

The Gogoro Network is an open platform for battery swapping and smart mobility services, delivering a fresh alternative to legacy fuel. Gogoro Network creates a new generation of swappable battery refueling that is smart, scalable, and continually optimizing itself to be dynamic and versatile for people, communities, and businesses. Currently in Taiwan, Gogoro has more than 2,100 GoStation battery swapping stations with nearly 1.3 GWh of power. The Powered by Gogoro Network Program gives Gogoro's vehicle maker partners access to Gogoro innovations including its intelligent drivetrains and controllers, components, and smart systems, so they can develop and roll out unique electric vehicles that integrate with Gogoro Network battery swapping.

About Enel X

Enel X is Enel Group's global business line offering services that accelerate innovation and drive the energy transition. A global leader in the advanced energy solution sector, Enel X manages services such as demand response for around 7.4 GW of total capacity at global level and 137 MW of storage capacity installed worldwide, as well as 232,000 electric vehicle charging points made available around the globe11. Through its advanced solutions, including energy management, financial services and electric mobility, Enel X provides each customer with an intuitive, personalized ecosystem of tech platforms and consulting services, focusing on sustainability and circular economy principles in order to provide people, communities, institutions and companies with an alternative model that respects the environment and integrates technological innovation into daily life. Each solution has the power to turn decarbonization, electrification and digitalization goals into sustainable actions for everyone, in order to build a more sustainable and efficient world together.

1Public and private charging points. It includes interoperability points.

For more information, visit corporate.enelx.com/en/media/press-releases and follow Enel X on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About Gogoro

Founded in 2011 to rethink urban energy and inspire the world to move through cities in smarter and more sustainable ways, Gogoro leverages the power of innovation to change the way urban energy is distributed and consumed. Gogoro's battery swapping and vehicle platforms offer a smart, proven, and sustainable long-term ecosystem for delivering a new approach to urban mobility. Gogoro has quickly become an innovation leader in vehicle design and electric propulsion, smart battery design, battery swapping, and advanced cloud services that utilize artificial intelligence to manage battery availability and safety. The challenge is massive, but the opportunity to disrupt the status quo, establish new standards, and achieve new levels of sustainable transportation growth in densely populated cities is even greater. For more information, visit www.gogoro.com/news and follow Gogoro on Twitter: @wearegogoro

SOURCE Gogoro Inc and Enel X

Related Links

https://www.gogoro.com/news/


FT. MYERS, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Farmworkers statewide who have been furloughed during the off-growing season are facing desperation and even homelessness due to obstacles in the new Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) unemployment benefits system. While the DEO is trying to address the issues, farmworkers are facing dire circumstances while they wait.

When farmworkers call the DEO, they are directed to the online system. Many of the farmworkers do not have access to a computer or even smart phone. Those who do are getting kicked out or rejected due to an improper ID or due to being dark-skinned, which is the case with most farmworkers.

Florida Rural Legal Services (FRLS) is now aiding farmworkers in these situations through their toll-free hotline, 1-844-44FARMWORKERS (OR 1-844-443-2769). FRLS, a non-profit law firm, launched the line specifically catered to the needs of Florida farmworkers, with a live response team available during extended hours and communication in three languages.

"We want to get the word out that we are here to help," said Jaffe Pickett, Executive Director of FRLS. "These essential workers are in emergency situations, but they don't know about the hotline."

In addition to barriers with unemployment compensation, farmworkers are also contending with a myriad of other legal matters because of Covid-19. Farmworkers having issues with getting food stamps or other public benefits, wage theft, discrimination, human trafficking and physical abuse, should also call the hotline to get free legal assistance.

In Florida, 60% of farmworkers are Hispanic, 20-30% are Haitian and 20% are English-speaking. FRLS FARMWORKERS HOTLINE, has greetings in English, Spanish and Creole and callers are directed for assistance in the language requested. Callers can speak with migrant unit team members in person between 8:30 a.m. and 8 p.m.

Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. is a non-profit law firm dedicated to providing quality civil legal advice, representation and education for low-income people and communities. In addition to front line services, FRLS provides advice, pro se assistance, legal representation in civil matters as well as community outreach and education and community legal clinics through its seven regional offices throughout Central and South Florida and provides services to farmworkers statewide.

Media Contact:

Sueanna Jones, JD, Acting Marketing and Communications Manager  [email protected], 863-688-7376 x3033

Roberto Cruz, Farmworker Advocacy Director (Spanish) [email protected], 863-688-7376 x3050

SOURCE Florida Rural Legal Services

Related Links

https://www.frls.org/


WALTHAM, Mass., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA), the nation's leading provider of kidney care products and services, has been named one of Newsweek's Most Loved Workplaces for 2021, ranking #42 among the top 100 companies recognized for employee happiness and satisfaction at work. Newsweek specifically cited the company's work around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) stating that it is an "emphasis for everyone." Ranked as one of the top three healthcare companies on the list, FMCNA is also the sole representative of the dialysis and kidney care industries.

"The dedication of our employees throughout the pandemic has demonstrated our commitment to providing superior care to our patients and is a testament to the true heart of our invaluable workforce," said Bill Valle, CEO of Fresenius Medical Care North America. "Receiving this honor is especially meaningful this year, as our employees have been working tirelessly in challenging circumstances to ensure our patients have access to the life-sustaining care they rely on us for. 'The Most Loved Workplace' honor is a tribute to the love that our employees have always shown to our patients, their work, and each other, and validates who we are  a team of caring people that treats all others with empathy, compassion, and respect. I am especially humbled by the recognition of our efforts around diversity, equity, and inclusion. We know we are better together and stronger when everyone is truly valued and cherished."

FMCNA continues to focus on listening to the needs of employees and provide leading benefits, education, support, and growth opportunities. With benefits like paid family leave, and offering both childcare stipends and supplemental pay to frontline healthcare workers during the height of the pandemic, the company has attracted the very best talent from across the country. FMCNA continues to be mindful of the ongoing impact that the pandemic has on the mental health of frontline workers through providing internal support groups, tools, and resources to ensure all employees can continue to bring their best selves to work.

"At Fresenius Medical Care North America, we work relentlessly to provide exceptional support for our direct patient care team members and other healthcare professionals so they can prosper and provide world class care for our patients," said Brian Silva, Chief Human Resources Officer and Senior Vice President, Administration for Fresenius Medical Care North America. "Being named a 'Most Loved Workplace,' is recognition our employees are connected to our mission and values, and they have the support needed to grow and excel in their careers."

Produced in collaboration with the Best Practice Institute (BPI), a leadership development and benchmark research company, the Newsweek list results were determined after surveying more than 800,000 employees from businesses with workforces varying in size from 50 to more than 10,000. The full Newsweek list of 2021's Most Loved Workplaces will be featured in the magazine's October 29 print edition and is currently available online.

"In the wake of the pandemic, business hit hurdles in terms of retaining and attracting employees  but the companies that made this list are delivering the respect, care, and appreciation that it takes to create a positive workplace that nurtures talent," said Nancy Cooper, Global Editor in Chief, Newsweek.

To learn more about current job opportunities at all divisions of Fresenius Medical Care North America, please visit jobs.fmcna.com.

Methodology

To identify the top 100 companies for the Newsweek ranking, companies were evaluated and scored as follows: 35 percent of the initial score was based on employee survey responses; 25 percent was derived from analysis of external public ratings from sites such as Comparably, Careerbliss, Glassdoor, Indeed and Google; and 40 percent came from direct interviews with and written responses from company officials. Newsweek then conducted additional research into every company on the list, as well as the top runners up, to determine the final list of 100 companies and their ranking. (The list includes both U.S. firms and companies with a strong U.S. presence that are based overseas.)

About Fresenius Medical Care North America

Fresenius Medical Care North America (FMCNA) is the premier healthcare company focused on providing the highest quality care to people with renal and other chronic conditions. Through its industry-leading network of dialysis facilities and outpatient cardiac and vascular labs, Fresenius Medical Care North America provides coordinated healthcare services at pivotal care points for hundreds of thousands of chronically ill customers throughout the continent. As the world's largest fully integrated renal company, it offers specialty pharmacy and laboratory services, and manufactures and distributes the most comprehensive line of dialysis equipment, disposable products, and renal pharmaceuticals. For more information, visit the FMCNA website at https://fmcna.com/.

About Newsweek

Newsweek is the modern global digital news organization built around the iconic, over 85-year-old American magazine. Newsweek reaches 100 million people each month with its thought-provoking news, opinion, images, graphics, and video delivered across a dozen print and digital platforms. Headquartered in New York City, Newsweek also publishes international editions in EMEA and Asia.

About Best Practice Institute

Best Practice Institute is an award-winning leadership and organization development center, benchmark research company, think tank, and solutions provider. BPI is the certifying body for Most Loved Workplace and conducted the original research to create the model and criteria for becoming a Most Loved Workplace. BPI's research proves that Most Loved Workplaces produce 3-4 times better customer service, employee performance, and retention than companies not loved by their employees.

http://www.mostlovedworkplace.com

Media Contact:

Fresenius Medical Care North America

Brad Puffer

Corporate Communications

[email protected]

(781) 699-3331

SOURCE Fresenius Medical Care Holdings, Inc.

Related Links

https://fmcna.com/


ROCKAWAY, N.J., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Hindus worldwide celebrate many festivals  Navratri, Dussehra, Durga Puja, and Diwali  in October. Hence, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA (HSS) along with several US-based Hindu organizations are celebrating October as Hindu Heritage Month.

City of Troy Hindu Heritage Month Proclamation City of Eastvale, CA, declaring Hindu Heritage Month

From the profound Hindu philosophy to meditation and nonviolence, Yoga and food, festivities and charity, dance and music, the Hindu way of life has touched Americans in numerous ways. Hindus celebrate this month in any and all of these forms that uniquely identify with the Hindu community, through religious, spiritual, and cultural programs, conferences, and educational events.

For American leaders across the nation, the contribution of the ancient Hindu way and, more importantly, the active role of Hindus in American society, was worth appreciation and praise.

Many prominent decision-makers and opinion-makers have expressed their enthusiastic support for this special celebration. These include US Congressmen Raja Krishnamurthy of Illinois, who called Hinduism a "uniquely pluralistic religion," Troy Balderson of Ohio, who acknowledged the resiliency of the Hindu American community in his letter of recognition, and the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Governor, Charles Baker, who paid tribute to the "Vibrant Hindu Community that contributed tremendously in the vitality of the Commonwealth."

The City of Troy, Michigan, especially recognized the charitable giving by the Hindu community during Diwali. HSS volunteer Mr. Rajender Sandani from Troy accepted the proclamation during the City Hall meeting with the Hindu community representatives, thanking the City for inclusiveness in action and recognizing the contribution of Hindu society.

A Hindu leader, Mrs. Bindu Patel, thanked the City of Irving, Texas, for appreciating the Hindu community and supporting the Hindu Heritage Month activities. She recalled HSS' collaboration with the local interfaith community, celebrating Diwali as a "Sewa Diwali  food drive" with a spirit of giving back to society.

This year, Diwali falls in the first week of November. Hence, it is expected that the Hindu Heritage Month will be extended by a few more weeks in its celebrations and spirit of giving.

Media Contact:

Vikas Deshpande

973-500-8477

[email protected]

SOURCE Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh USA
LUXEMBOURG, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Gen II Luxembourg Services, SARL ("Gen II"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Gen II Fund Services, LLC, a leading independent private equity fund administrator, today announced the firm's Information Security Management System has earned the ISO 27001 certification. This certification underscores Gen II's commitment to meeting clients' data security needs and operating with the highest cybersecurity standards.

ISO 27001 is widely regarded as the international standard for information security management. Validated by PECB MS, a global provider of audit and certification services, this certification affirms that Gen II meets ISO requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining, and continual improvement of an information security management system.

The Information Security Management System certification scope includes:

Processes and Services: Security Policy and technology environments (Access controls, Physical and environmental security, BCP Fund administration, accounting, and communication)

Organizational Units: Information Technology Department for Gen II Luxembourg Services SARL

Locations: Gen II Luxembourg Services SARL Office

Networks and IT infrastructure: Gen II Luxembourg Services SARL Office and technology systems

"This notable achievement affirms that our controls, processes, and protections align with the most well-respected international security standards," said Norman Leben, Managing Principal and Co-Founder, Gen II. "We are very proud to receive the ISO 27001 certification and we are thankful to our talented and experienced staff who have made this achievement possible."

"As cybersecurity becomes a greater focus for our clients, this certification demonstrates that Gen II has the necessary protections and controls in place to protect our clients' information," said Steven Millner, Managing Principal and Co-Founder, Gen II.

About Gen II

Gen II is a leading fund administration provider focused entirely on serving the alternative asset management space, including private equity, real estate, and credit funds. Since its inception in 2009, the company is one of the largest independent private equity fund administrators with more than $600 billion of private fund capital under administration. Gen II offers private fund sponsors a best-in-class combination of people, process, and technology, enabling GPs to manage their operational infrastructure, financial reporting, and investor communications most effectively. For more information, please visit www.gen2fund.com.

About ISO/IEC 27001:2013

ISO/IEC 27001:2013 (also known as ISO 27001) is the international standard for information security. These standards outline the best practices to help organizations manage their information security by addressing people, processes, and technology. Certification to the ISO 27001 Standard is recognized worldwide as an indication that your ISMS is aligned with information security best practices.

Contact:

Philip Nunes

BackBay Communications

617.391.0792

[email protected]

SOURCE Gen II Fund Services, LLC

Related Links

www.gen2fund.com


NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The recent report from MRS "Dental Implants Market By Material Type (Titanium Dental Implants, and Zirconium Dental Implants), By Procedure (Root-form Dental Implants, and Plate-form Dental Implants): Global Industry Outlook, Market Size, Business Intelligence, Consumer Preferences, Statistical Surveys, Comprehensive Analysis, Historical Developments, Current Trends, and Forecasts, 20212026" states that the global demand for the dental implants market in 2020 was approximately USD 3,501.3 Million in 2020 and is expected to generate revenue of around USD 8,100.3 Million by the end of 2026, growing at a CAGR of around 11.3% between 2021 and 2026.

Dental implants are also known as an endosseous implant or fixture that is an artificial tooth or a tooth root that is implanted surgically into the upper or lower jawbone. Unlike conventional devices such as crowns, bridges, or dentures; dental implants are superior and digital leading to an improved method of efficiency, enhanced stability, and minimum adverse effects. In the dental device industry, the emergence of dental implants has addressed the high requirement for enhanced efficiency, convenience, and stable tooth replacement.

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The increase in usage of dental implants in numerous therapeutic areas with the rise in demands for prosthetics is estimated to propel the market growth in the forthcoming years. As prosthetics play a major role in enhancing the requirements for these implants through oral rehabilitation that helps in restoring oral function and the facial form of a patient. The surge in incidences of oral diseases, the developing aging population, and poor oral hygiene are various factors propelling the market growth of global dental implants. Other key factors such as the rise in disposable income in the emergent countries and growing technological improvements such as mini dental implants, CAD, and 3D dentistry are also fuelling the growth of the dental implants market.

However, the high expenses, the limited reimbursements, and the lack of awareness of dental implants are likely to hinder the market growth of dental implants.

In terms of region, the dental implants market can be divided into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and South America. Globally, the North American region is leading the global dental implants market as a result of the rise in the aged population with a high rate of dental conditions and higher awareness among the population about restorative treatments and oral prevention in this region. In addition, the vast availability of resources in this region is also one of the reasons for the growth of the dental implants markets.

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Asia-Pacific is probably to grow at a rapid pace in the coming years due to the disposable income, growing economic stability, and the geriatric population. Furthermore, the increase in adoption of cosmetic dental implants, the introduction of the latest technologies such as CAD/CAM-based dental restorations, and the higher awareness about dental procedures among the population are some key factors that will boost the global dental implants market growth during the forecast period. Also, the countries in Asia-Pacific are famous for their budget treatment, making them the preferred market for medical tourism.

The key manufacturers in the dental implants market are Institut Straumann AG, DENTSPLY Sirona Inc., Zimmer Biomet Holdings Inc., OSSTEM Implant Co. Ltd., Merz Dental GmbH, Henry Schein Inc., Bicon, Thommen Medical AG, AVINENT Implant System, Anthogyr SAS, Southern Implant, Leader Italy, Danaher Corporation (Nobel Biocare), T-Plus Implant Tech. Co., DENTIS, DENTIUM Co. Ltd., 3M Company, Ivoclar Vivadent AG, DIO Corporation, Neoss International, LLC, KYOCERA Medical Corporation, and Shofu Dental Corporation.

For example, Danaher Corporation is an American globally diversified conglomerate with its headquarters in Washington, D.C. The company designs, manufacture, and markets professional, medical, industrial, and commercial products and services. The company's 3 platforms are Life Sciences, Diagnostics, and Environmental & Applied Solutions. In 2016, Danaher Corporation acquired Phenomenex for $700 million to expand its life sciences space.

Get More Insight before Buying this Report @ https://www.marketresearchstore.com/inquiry/dental-implants-market-828628

This report segments the global dental implants market as follows:

Global Dental Implants Market: By Material Type

Titanium Dental Implants

Zirconium Dental Implants

Global Dental Implants Market: By Procedure

Root-form Dental Implants

Plate-form Dental Implants

Global Dental Implants Market: Regional Segmentation Analysis

North America

The U.S.



Canada

Europe

France



The UK



Spain



Germany



Italy



Rest of Europe

Asia Pacific

China



Japan



India



South Korea



Southeast Asia



Rest of Asia Pacific

Latin America

Brazil



Mexico



Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

& GCC



South Africa



Rest of Middle East & Africa

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https://www.marketresearchstore.com/market-insights/aesthetic-implants-market-828575 Dental Implants Dental Consumables Market - https://www.marketresearchstore.com/market-insights/dental-implants-dental-consumables-market-805360

https://www.marketresearchstore.com/market-insights/dental-implants-dental-consumables-market-805360 Narrow Dental Implants Market - https://www.marketresearchstore.com/market-insights/global-narrow-dental-implants-market-research-report-2020-737591

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DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis and Nicotine Testing Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Test Type, By Technology, By Application (Cytotoxicity Testing, Genetic Toxicity Testing), By Method, By Region, and Segment Forecasts, 2021-2028" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global in-vitro toxicology assays market size for cannabis and nicotine testing is expected to reach USD 2.9 billion by 2028. The market is expected to expand at a CAGR of 11.2% from 2021 to 2028. Growing adoption of high throughput techniques in cannabis testing, legalization of medical cannabis, and growing awareness regarding the potential hazards of nicotine consumption have majorly driven the market throughout the forecast period.



The legalization of medical cannabis is underway globally, including in countries such as Germany, Australia, and Israel. The market is gaining momentum in the Asia Pacific region, with Thailand having fully legalized medicinal cannabis. Thus, increasing legalization of medical cannabis is expected to drive the market growth to a major extend. In addition, technological advancements in cellular assays have boosted market growth.



COVID-19 has become a catalyst for changing the traditional use of cannabis. Owing to the pandemic, the leading scientific community and market competitors are now focusing on deciphering the potential of cannabis to prevent SARS-CoV-2 infection. Companies have reported the increase in the sale of cannabis as some states/countries have declared cannabis as an essential medicine during the pandemic.



In-vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Report Highlights

Nicotine testing accounted for the largest revenue in 2020 and is expected to continue the trend in the forecast period owing to increasing safety concerns associated with nicotine products.

Cannabis testing is expected to witness gradual growth through 2021-2028 owing to the rising acceptance of cannabis for medical use.

3D cell culture technology is expected to grow at substantial CAGR owing to the increasing popularity of drug development and toxicity testing.

Cytotoxicity testing design accounted for the highest market revenue in 2020 owing to advancements in different tools for evaluating the cytotoxic effects of nicotine-containing products.

North America has emerged as the highest revenue-generating region in 2020, owing to the prevalence of cancer, presence of key players, and developed healthcare infrastructure.

has emerged as the highest revenue-generating region in 2020, owing to the prevalence of cancer, presence of key players, and developed healthcare infrastructure. Asia Pacific is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR throughout the forecast period. It is anticipated that China and India are contributing majorly to the regional market's growth.

is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR throughout the forecast period. It is anticipated that and are contributing majorly to the regional market's growth. Key players are undertaking various strategic initiatives such as mergers and acquisitions to maintain their presence in the market.

In August 2020 , Eurofins Scientific purchased approximately 136 smaller labs within 3 years from 2014 to 2019, accounting for a total expenditure of USD 3.4 billion in these acquisitions.

Companies Mentioned:

Stemina Biomarker Discovery, Inc.

Broughton Nicotine Services

Labstat International, Inc.

Iontox

Toxikon

Integrated Laboratory Systems

Enthalpy Analytical (Enthalpy)

Pbr Laboratories, Inc.

Key Topics Covered:

Chapter 1 Methodology and Scope

1.1 Research Assumptions

1.2 Research Methodology

1.2.1 Estimates And Forecast Timeline

1.3 Research Methodology

1.4 Information Procurement

1.5 Information or Data Analysis

1.6 Market Formulation And Validation

1.7 Market Model

1.7.1 Model Details

1.7.2 Revenue Share Assessment Of Technology Scope

1.8 Objectives

Chapter 2 Executive Summary

2.1 Market Summary, 2020

2.2 Market Segmentation

Chapter 3 In Vitro Toxicology Assay Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing Variables, Trends, & Scope

3.1 Market Lineage Outlook

3.1.1 Parent Market Outlook

3.1.2 Related/Ancillary Market Outlook

3.2 Market Dynamics

3.2.1 Market Driver Analysis

3.2.2 Market Restraint Analysis

3.3 COVID-19 Impact Analysis: In vitro Toxicology Assays Market for Cannabis and Nicotine Testing

3.4 In Vitro Toxicology Assay Market for Cannabis and Nicotine Testing: Market Analysis Tools

3.5 Penetration and Growth Prospect Mapping for Test Type, 2020

Chapter 4 Competitive Landscape

4.1 Recent Developments & Impact Analysis, by Key Market Participants

4.2 Company Categorization

4.3 Private Companies

4.4 Stakeholders Landscape

4.5 Major Deals & Strategic Alliances Analysis

4.6 Regional Network Map

Chapter 5 In Vitro Toxicology Assay Market For Cannabis and Nicotine Testing: Test Type Business Analysis

5.1 In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Test Type Movement Analysis

5.2 Cannabis Testing

5.2.1 In Vitro Toxicology Market For Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

5.3 Nicotine Testing

5.3.1 In vitro toxicology market for nicotine testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD MILLION)

Chapter 6 In Vitro Toxicology Assay Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Method Business Analysis

6.1 Global In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Method Movement Analysis

6.2 Cellular Assay

6.2.1 Cellular Assay-Based In Vitro Toxicology Market For Cannabis & Nicotine Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

6.3 Others

6.3.1 Other Assay-Based In Vitro Toxicology Market For Cannabis & Nicotine Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

Chapter 7 In Vitro Toxicology Assay Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Technology Business Analysis

7.1 In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Technology Movement Analysis

7.2 3D Cell Culture Technology

7.2.1 3D Cell Culture Technology For In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

7.3 Mass Spectrometry

7.3.1 Mass Spectrometry Technology For In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

7.4 Flow Cytometry

7.4.1 Flow Cytometry Technology For In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

7.5 Others

7.5.1 Other Technologies For In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

Chapter 8 In Vitro Toxicology Assay Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Application Business Analysis

8.1 In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Application Movement Analysis

8.2 Genetic Toxicity Testing

8.2.1 Gene Toxicity Testing Application Of In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

8.3 Carcinogenicity Testing

8.3.1 Carcinogenicity Testing Application Of In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

8.4 Cytotoxicity Testing

8.4.1 Cytotoxicity Testing Application Of In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

8.5 Mutagenicity Testing

8.5.1 Mutagenicity Testing Application Of In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

8.6 Other Applications

8.6.1 Other Applications Of In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Nicotine & Cannabis Testing, 2017 - 2028 (USD Million)

Chapter 9 In Vitro Toxicology Assay Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Regional Business Analysis

9.1 In Vitro Toxicology Assays Market For Cannabis And Nicotine Testing: Regional Movement Analysis

9.2 North America

9.2.1 U.S.

9.2.2 Canada

9.3 Europe

9.3.1 Germany

9.3.2 U.K.

9.3.3 France

9.3.4 Italy

9.3.5 Spain

9.4 Asia Pacific

9.4.1 Japan

9.4.2 China

9.4.3 India

9.4.4 Australia

9.4.5 Singapore

9.5 Latin America

9.5.1 Brazil

9.5.2 Mexico

9.5.3 Argentina

9.6 Middle East And Africa

9.6.1 South Africa

9.6.2 Saudi Arabia

Chapter 10 Competitive Profiling





For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/13sdo3

Media Contact:

Research and Markets

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[email protected]

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"At Gotcha Covered, we want to show our clients that we care about more than simply selling our services," said Paul Linenberg, president of Gotcha Covered. "We are dedicated to them on a daily basis and want to shed light on the ongoing issues they face daily. No matter who you are, it's likely you know someone that has been affected by breast or ovarian cancer.

"Based on breast and ovarian cancer statistics, 1 in 8 women will develop invasive breast cancer over the course of her lifetime. About 21,410 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer by the end of 2021. These are things we need to be discussing, and our awareness campaigns aims to start the conversation."

Attention to breast cancer is just one of several Gotcha Covered quarterly campaign topics focused on raising awareness for important issues across the nation.

In November, Gotcha Covered is dedicating their efforts to veterans in the United States and Canada by focusing on the Fisher House Foundation and True Patriot Love. The Fisher House Foundation provides a home away from home free of charge for families of patients receiving care at military and VA medical centers in the U.S. True Patriot Love honors the sacrifices of members of the Canadian Armed Forces and provides resources to meet the needs of veterans and their families.

Gotcha Covered shows its support by adding banners to their websites that link back to each charity. Several promotional social media posts are made each month, and franchise owners also receive a series of newsletters about each charity, which can be sent out to their contacts.

Gotcha Covered encourages its franchise owners to donate a percentage of their monthly sales to the charity being supported each month. In December, each charity receives a corporate donation from Gotcha Covered.

"It is an honor for us to support veterans across two nations," said Linenberg. "They and their families deserve our assistance. The many patients and families fighting cancer also deserve support, and the Gotcha Covered family knows every bit helps in the fight against the disease. That's why raising awareness of these charities means so much to us, and we encourage people to learn more about them and how they can help."

If you would like to support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, visit https://www.bcrf.org/.

For information on Ovarian Cancer Canada, visit https://ovariancanada.org/.

To make a donation to the Fisher House Foundation or True Patriot Love, visit https://fisherhouse.org/ or https://truepatriotlove.com/, respectively.

About Gotcha Covered

Gotcha Covered is a leader in custom soft and hard window treatment consultation in the U.S. and Canada. Flying under their Gotcha Covered flag since 2009, they offer custom window treatments including blinds, draperies, shutters and much more. They offer end-to-end consultation with the customer's specific needs and goals in mind. The company currently has over 100 total franchises across the U.S. and Canada.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Heather Ripley

Ripley PR

865-977-1973

[email protected]

SOURCE Gotcha Covered
LOS ANGELES, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Fast Company announced today its first annual Brands That Matter list, honoring brands including GT's Living Foods, producer of the most-loved and best-selling Kombucha brand in the world. These companies and nonprofits do more than sell products and services, they have achieved relevance through cultural impact and social engagement, and authentically communicated their missions and ideals.

The final list, which includes large multinational conglomerates, small-but-mighty companies, and nonprofits, recognizes 95 brands that give people compelling reasons to care about themand offer inspiration for others to buy in. All 95 have found an ability to forge an emotional connection with customers, whether leading on the environment or pop culture, engaging B2B customers, or responding meaningfully to current events.

All brands that applied were considered for overall recognition. Plus, there were additional honorees on category-specific lists based on region, size, and status.

"Fast Company is excited to highlight companies and organizations that have built brands with deep meaning and connections to the customers they serve. At a time when consumers are holding companies to very high standards, businesses have much to learn from these brands that have garnered respect and trust," says Stephanie Mehta, editor-in-chief of Fast Company.

"We are blessed and honored to be recognized as a Fast Company 'Brand that Matters,'" says GT Dave, Founder and CEO, GT's Living Foods. "Since our inception, it has been our mission to bring authentic and potent living foods to the Western World, and that goal remains strong to this day. As we innovate and grow, we look forward to sharing this special drink with the world, healing the minds, bodies and spirits of health-conscious consumers and Kombucha fans."

A pioneer in the health and wellness sector for more than 25 years, GT's Living Foods remains an innovative leader in the growing Kombucha industry, retaining 47% of the category market share. Founder and CEO Dave bottled his first brew in the kitchen of his parents' home at the age of 15, later going on to create the first commercial Kombucha brand in the U.S.

GT's Living Foods' mission has always been significant, but its purpose deepened throughout the global pandemic this past year as personal health and wellness shifted to the forefront of consumers' priorities. GT's instituted an on-the-ground, fast-and-furious, product distribution blitz to support frontline workers at the onset of the global pandemic.

The company also formed a Science Advisory Board amid increased consumer need for natural products that support immunity and reduce inflammation. The board, consisting of five medical doctors with expertise in science, nutrition, and the gut microbiome, serves as a conduit to connect the greater research community with consumers to educate on the scientifically proven healing properties of fermented foods for gut health and optimal digestion.

The brand that started it all continues to share the gift of Kombucha with so many others so they can carry on the ancient tradition while innovating the category.

Fast Company editors judged each brand on relevancy, cultural impact, ingenuity, and business impact to compile the list.

Click here to see the complete list.

The November issue of Fast Company magazine is available online now and will be on newsstands beginning November 2, 2021.

About Fast Company

Fast Company is the only media brand fully dedicated to the vital intersection of business, innovation, and design, engaging the most influential leaders, companies, and thinkers on the future of business. The editor-in-chief is Stephanie Mehta. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with our sister publication, Inc., and can be found online at fastcompany.com.

About GT's Living Foods

We believe that Mother Nature is the World's greatest healer. Since 1995, GT's Living Foods has revolutionized how people think and feel about Kombucha and fermented foods in the Western World. From the womb, founder GT Dave was raised vegetarian and taught that food can be medicine. He continues to uphold that philosophy with always pure, potent, and plant-derived fermented offerings produced in their most authentic form, never compromised. The fiercely independent, family-owned, and operated company is available in over 55,000 retailers across North America and Europe. Today and beyond, GT's Living Foods' driving purpose is to spread a global message that food can be medicine and through proper nutrition one can heal thyself. For more information, please visit www.gtslivingfoods.com.

Follow GT's Living Foods on social:

Instagram @GTsKombucha

Facebook @GTsLivingFoods

TikTok @GTsKombucha

Twitter @GTsKombucha

Pinterest @GTsKombucha

YouTube www.youtube.com/gtskombucha

SOURCE GT's Living Foods

Related Links

https://gtslivingfoods.com/


NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Herbolea, an Italian company who develops and licenses proprietary, solventless technologies to transform botanicals into superior quality products, is happy to announce the closing of its 5m EUR Series A round, of which 2.5m EUR conditioned to milestone achievement, led by the European medical and pharmaceutical cannabis specialist fund, Oskare Capital, chaired by Bruce Linton. The funds will be used to accelerate growth, expand the team and extend access to core markets, in particular, the US.

Joining Oskare Capital in the round were a number of HNWIs who equally appreciate Herbolea's unique value proposition. Herbolea's technology is tailored for the extraction of active ingredients from the cannabis plant, however, Herbolea are also applying the enzymatic process in adjacent verticals, such as the extraction of actives from hops. The company is currently generating 7 figure revenues and operating extraction equipment in several important geographies, including in GMP facilities, in US, Germany, Thailand and Italy.

Oskare Capital's President, Alexandre Ouimet-Storrs comments: "As a chemical engineer by training, I immediately understood the potential this platform technology has to revolutionize the way we extract botanicals today. Herbolea's technology can extract valuable compounds from the fresh cannabis plant, with no need to dry, at a fraction of the costs of current technologies, provide higher quality end products and is safer to operate as their process is enzyme based and does not require high pressure or solvents."

Representing the syndicate of HNWIs, Senior Managing Director at Houlihan Lokey, Joseph Swanson, notes, "We are delighted to partner with Oskare in supporting Herbolea at this exciting time in the Company's history. Herbolea is uniquely positioned, with patented technology and a structural cost advantage, to disrupt multiple industry verticals built on biomass extraction".

About Herbolea

Herbolea Biotech is an Italian extraction technology company offering industrial solventless solutions to transform botanicals into superior quality products through proprietary, highly efficient, and environmentally friendly technologies. Visit www.herbolea.com to learn more or watch a video of our processes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjLIds9FPkQ.

For more information, please contact: Lorenzo Venturini Del Greco by email [email protected] or Marco Merciai, [email protected], +393922655333

About Oskare Capital

OSKARE CAPITAL SAS (Paris, France) currently advises Oskare Fund I ICAV (Dublin, Ireland), the first AIFM and ESG compatible Venture Capital fund with an investment focus on innovative companies and teams in Europe working on novel therapeutics (cannabinoids and other molecules) that target the endocannabinoid system as well as the 'picks and shovels' of the associated ecosystem of services and products that support this fast growing global market.

The Fund will invest in startups across the entire value chain (from Seed to Patient) but will not invest in cannabis production or recreational cannabis.

For more information, please contact: Oliver Lamb by email [email protected]



SOURCE Herbolea Biotech S.p.a.
HolonIQ also announced an open source taxonomy for Climate Technology, built by augmenting experts from around the world with artificial intelligence, to identify 50 key climate technology categories that will lead the fight against climate change. The "Global Climate Technology Landscape 1.0", has been released ahead of the formal launch at COP26 next week at https://globalclimatelandscape.org/

About the 'Climate Tech 1000'

Selected from over 20,000 Climate Tech startups and companies who applied or are covered by HolonIQ's Intelligence Platform.

The top 1000 global climate tech startups are built region by region to ensure the cohort is diverse, truly global and to shine a light on the inspiring innovation happening around the world.

10 regional lists in total including the North America 200, Europe 200, Australia and New Zealand 100, East Asia 100, Nordic Baltic 100, India and South Asia 100, Africa 50, LATAM 50, MENA 50 and Southeast Asia 50.

200, 200, and 100, 100, Nordic Baltic 100, and 100, 50, LATAM 50, MENA 50 and 50. Startups were scored on five key criteria; market, product and impact, team (including diversity), capital and momentum.

About the Open Source Taxonomy, 'Global Climate Landscape 1.0'

Open-source taxonomy for climate innovation, providing a common structure and language for identifying, tracking and making sense of the breadth and depth of innovation happening in climate technology globally.

The purpose of the 'Global Climate Tech Landscape' is to create a granular and global open-source framework to enable insights such as:

Where are we seeing solutions and innovation? What is the velocity of formation, funding and growth? How is this changing over time?

Where are the gaps? When compared to the challenges we are facing, which areas are under-weight or white-space?

Where are we seeing traction and momentum? Where might new science and technology find a commercial market to apply new novel innovations and achieve self-sustainability?

More information is available at https://www.globalclimatelandscape.org/

The full report will be launched at the NYTimes Climate Hub on Friday 5 November and at an open and free webinar. https://bit.ly/3mgIWY8

About HolonIQ

https://www.holoniq.com/

HolonIQ is the world's leading platform for impact market intelligence. We power decisions that matter across education, healthcare and sustainability.

Our customers are governments, institutions, firms and investors who are shaping and influencing policy, innovation, technology and investment across the impact economy. In this constantly shifting landscape, our customers know that good decisions can't be made without contextualised data, disciplined analysis and a global perspective.

We have developed open-source taxonomies and proprietary artificial intelligence to track these strategic developments around the world, as they happen.

HolonIQ's Purpose

We believe that accelerating the impact economy will power economic growth and solve the world's most important social and environmental challenges.

In 2018, we looked across the global impact landscape and saw the world's most important social and economic systems, such as education, healthcare and sustainability, forced to make critical decisions and trade-offs without sufficiently dedicated, trusted or global market intelligence.

The stakes have never been higher, nor the opportunity greater. Governments, academia, firms and investors around the world need relevant, trusted and globally connected intelligence to inform decisions and actions that impact humanity.

We saw a need for a different kind of technology to power decisions that matter, and we knew it would take a different kind of company to build it. That's why we founded HolonIQ.

SOURCE HolonIQ

Related Links

https://www.holoniq.com/


CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- With children back in school for in-person learning, it's important for schools to be vigilant about their indoor air quality, and one study shows that 40% of schools need to update or replace their ventilation systems. Today, the American Lung Association, in partnership with Airthings and Carrier Colorado, launched a "How To" guide for schools to improve their indoor air quality.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, children spend on average more than 1,000 hours in school every year. Given the amount of time spent in school, indoor air quality can significantly impact children. Air pollution in the classroom, dirty air filters and radon can affect how children learn and harm their growing lungs. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the essential elements for safe operations include maintaining healthy facilities, including adequate ventilation for good indoor air quality.

"Schools often face special challenges in providing healthy indoor air for the children, staff and faculty. For example, schools typically have four times as many people indoors as an office building with the same floor space," said Albert Rizzo, M.D., Chief Medical Officer for the American Lung Association. "Children across the country returned to in-person learning earlier this fall, so it's important for school administrators to be proactive about their facility's air quality."

Many schools don't have the funding for the necessary improvements. In fact, a 2020 study from the U.S. Government Accountability Office shows 40% of schools need to update or replace their ventilation systems. Fortunately, there is now funding available to help schools improve their facilities. Through the COVID-19 Economic Relief, also known as the CARES Act, and the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations (CRRSA), the Federal government has approved $176 billion in emergency COVID relief aid for K12 schools, and facility-related expenditures are among the allowable uses for these funds.

The Lung Association's "How To" guide will include information about indoor air quality, recommendations on how to assess indoor air quality, strategies to improve indoor air quality, and more.

Teachers, school administrators and other officials can access this guide for free at Lung.org/IAQ-in-Schools.

About the American Lung Association

The American Lung Association is the leading organization working to save lives by improving lung health and preventing lung disease through education, advocacy and research. The work of the American Lung Association is focused on four strategic imperatives: to defeat lung cancer; to champion clean air for all; to improve the quality of life for those with lung disease and their families; and to create a tobacco-free future. For more information about the American Lung Association, a holder of the coveted 4-star rating from Charity Navigator and a Gold-Level GuideStar Member, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) or visit: Lung.org.

About Airthings

Airthings is a global technology company and producer of award-winning radon and indoor air quality monitors for homeowners, businesses, and professionals. Founded in 2008, Airthings is on a mission to ensure that people around the world recognize the impact of indoor air quality and take control of their health through simple, affordable, and accurate technology solutions while optimizing energy consumption in buildings. Airthings' products have made radon detection and indoor air quality monitoring easy to deploy, accurate, and user friendly, and have received several accolades including the TIME's Best Inventions of 2019 award and CES Innovation Award Honors in 2019 and 2021. Headquartered in the heart of Oslo, and with offices in the US, Canada, and Sweden the company has over 140 employees from more than 30 nationalitiesand counting. To find an expanded assortment of Airthings smart indoor air quality monitors and radon detectors or to learn more about the importance of continuous air quality monitoring, please visit airthings.com.

About Carrier Colorado

Carrier Colorado is a full service heating and air conditioning distribution center specializing in Carrier products. Founded in 1990, Carrier Colorado's passion is to dependably provide comfort to our community that improves people's lives. Carrier Colorado specializes in indoor air quality products and has a solution for any type of building with any type of budget. To be connected with an indoor air quality expert in your area, visit CarrierColorado.com.

CONTACT:

Jill Dale,

American Lung Association,

P: 312-940-7001

E: [email protected]

American Lung Association  55 W. Wacker Drive, Suite 1150  Chicago, IL 60601

1331 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Ste. 1425 North  Washington, D.C. 20004

1-800-LUNGUSA (1-800-586-4872) Lung.org

SOURCE American Lung Association

Related Links

www.lung.org


NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on mental health, and older adults, most at risk of severe illness from the virus, have been especially vulnerable, according to Robyn Wiesel, director of Community Education & Outreach at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, loneliness and social isolation pose serious public health risks and affect a significant number of people in the United States.

When the pandemic forced the closure of its onsite programs, Community Education & Outreach staff quickly set out to transition their offerings to virtual and conference call formats. "It was important for us to continue to promote an atmosphere of support for our older adult population," explained Wiesel. "Our goal was to continue to deliver high-quality education, exercise and support programs to promote health, activity and connectivity."

HSS staff shared their strategies and successes at a virtual symposium titled, "Fostering Social, Emotional and Physical Connectivity in Older Adults during the Pandemic and Beyond" at the annual meeting of the American Public Health Association (APHA) on October 26.

Utilizing Alternative Strategies to Keep Underserved and Vulnerable Communities Socially Connected

A presentation that focused on implementing new and creative program formats to better reach diverse communities was honored with the APHA Betty J. Cleckley Minority Issues Research Award. It recognizes individuals in aging and public health research who have made a significant impact on the lives of older people who are members of minority groups.

To foster social connectedness and promote well-being during the pandemic, HSS adapted its in-person programs to continue to reach underserved and vulnerable populations, including older adults whose primary language was not English.

Working closely with community partners, Bonnie McGrath, program assistant, Regional Markets Education & Outreach, and her colleagues conducted a needs assessment and identified alternative strategies to successfully pivot programs, including Pilates mat and Tai Chi classes to be offered via conference call, videoconference via Zoom or in a safe outdoor space in a socially distanced manner.

HSS offered 586 programs reaching 5,902 participants from March 2020 to August 2021. Surveys indicate that the program enabled participants to feel calmer and more relaxed; many experienced less pain; they valued the opportunity to connect with others; and they gained skills to cope with stress and anxiety. The online programs are ongoing and continue to evolve and improve based on participant feedback.

Aging with Dignity: Connection and Support to Reduce Isolation

"Aging with Dignity" was a monthly in-person support group led by a social worker designed to establish connections, provide guidance and reduce feelings of isolation in vulnerable communities. At the start of the pandemic, HSS staff quickly adapted to a remote format to continue the support group through frequent telephone conference calls.

Linda Roberts, LCSW, assistant manager of the Greenberg Academy for Successful Aging at HSS, says the telephone format made participation easier for those without easy access to the Internet or who were not as comfortable with an online format.

The group is ongoing and has been running for 63 weeks since the pandemic began in March 2020, with more than two-thirds of participants ages 70 and older. Program evaluations indicate that the weekly calls are effective in reducing their feelings of loneliness by establishing a sense of empowerment and community with other group members.

Improving Quality of Life and Fostering Connectivity Through Virtual Exercise Programs in Older Adults

When in-person exercise classes were no longer an option, HSS implemented biweekly live virtual classes, including Pilates, yoga and Tai Chi, as well as on-demand videos, tailored to improve musculoskeletal health for older adults while fostering social connectivity. The offerings were designed for different levels of ability.

According to Claudia Zurlini, senior coordinator, Community Education & Outreach, since the COVID-19 onset, HSS has reached more than 3,600 participants through live virtual exercise classes and 1.5 million people through on-demand exercise videos. Participant surveys indicate that the virtual offerings helped improve mobility, physical activity level and quality of life, while reducing the negative impact of isolation.

Best Practices and Lessons Learned in Evaluating Virtual Programs for Older Adults

Program evaluation is a crucial process that assesses the impact and quality of public health programs. Prior to COVID-19, HSS used a mixed-method approach with an emphasis on distributing paper surveys in person. With the shift to virtual programs, HSS adopted a new strategy to ensure effective assessment. In-person surveys were transitioned to an online system. However, due to low response rates of online surveys, HSS expanded the strategy to include a three-pronged qualitative approach  focus groups via Zoom, phone interviews and open-ended survey questions.

Bertilia Trieu, MPH, senior coordinator, Outcomes & Data Analytics, says the new approach helped foster social connectivity by allowing older adults to share feedback in spaces that virtually connected them to classmates and evaluation staff. It also created an opportunity to reach older adults who were uncomfortable with technology or did not have access.

HSS Virtual Offerings Here to Stay

"The expansion of our online programs, webinars, classes and on-demand content has demonstrated tremendous reach outside of our physical geographic area. Our content has been accessed by people throughout the country and around the world," says Wiesel, who adds that the expansion of online offerings will continue.

"At HSS, our data has shown that our programs are just as effective, if not more effective, in the virtual space," she adds. "Our reach numbers have increased considerably. Since January 2021, our on-demand content alone has received close to 3 million views."

To access the extensive programming on the HSS website, as well as a YouTube playlist, visit:

https://www.hss.edu/health-video-library.asp

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDps2oOp60a7TEfDWuePJkarYGkS2ReQv

About HSS

HSS is the world's leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 12th consecutive year), No. 4 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2021-2022), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report "Best Children's Hospitals" list (2021-2022). HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics by Newsweek (2021-2022). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. The global standard total knee replacement was developed at HSS in 1969. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Global Innovation Institute was formed in 2016 to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 130 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

SOURCE Hospital for Special Surgery

Related Links

www.hss.edu


INDIANAPOLIS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- International Medical Group (IMG), an award-winning global insurance benefits and assistance services company, is excited to announce Make a Miracle and Real Impact Missions as the winners of the fifth annual Leave Your Mark essay contest. Both organizations will receive $5,000 from IMG to use towards their global outreach efforts.

Make a Miracle supports the community of San Juan de Lurigancho (SJL), the largest and most impoverished district of Lima, Peru. The nonprofit makes a difference in the SJL community by building houses for families in need, hosting community soup kitchens, offering academic scholarships, providing medical care, and more.

Make a Miracle plans to open a wellness center offering free medical, dental, veterinary, and mental health care that would change the lives of the residents in the hill communities in SJL. Construction started before the pandemic, and the center is scheduled to open this year. This $5,000 award will allow Make a Miracle to fully stock the new wellness center with items such as blood glucose monitors, blood pressure cuffs, over-the-counter medications, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and more.

"Covid has proven that the SJL community of Lima needs healthcare now more than ever, and the people are eager to embrace better health and wellness," says Carolyn Canouse, President of Make a Miracle. "We are grateful for this opportunity to increase our impact and support the community."

The second winner, Real Impact Missions, mobilizes individual and group mission trips throughout Central America and the Caribbean with the goal of "reaching people with the love of Christ through providing tangible medical care" in poor areas with little or no access to healthcare.

One of the most effective ways in which they are able to meet these tangible needs is through their mobile medical clinics. Each summer, Real Impact Missions sends a team of doctors, nurses, and other volunteers to serve nearly 250 patients per day. This $5,000 award will considerably help to cover the cost of prescription medications for these patients in need.

"We are honored to be a recipient of IMG's Leave Your Mark award. Prescription medications are a significant cost for our medical trips, and our funding was limited on what we could provide this yea. Our organization will be able to use the funds from IMG as a considerable way to cover the cost for these medications," says Josh Richards, Director of Admissions for Real Impact Missions.

"IMG is delighted to assist with these two exceptional mission organizations to contribute to meaningful change in the communities they serve. Both of these organizations exemplify why it is so important to support our global communities. Congratulations to both Make a Miracle and Real Impact Missions." says Amanda Winkle, Chief Commercial Officer at IMG.

IMG has insured mission and social good organizations since the early 1990s, providing key benefits and assistance services for thousands of members who travel or live internationally with the purpose of serving others. The company launched its Leave Your Mark essay contest on June 1, 2017, as a way to give back to organizations serving charitable missions.

About International Medical Group (IMG)

International Medical Group (IMG), a SiriusPoint company, is an award-winning global insurance benefits and assistance services company that has served millions of members worldwide since its founding in 1990. A leader in the global benefits and assistance services industry, IMG offers a full line of international medical insurance products, as well as travel insurance plans, medical management services, and 24/7 emergency medical and travel assistance. For more information, please visit www.imglobal.com.

About Make a Miracle

Make a Miracle's mission is to bring hope and lasting change to San Juan de Lurigancho, Peru. Founded in 2015 by Carolyn and Jack Canouse, Make a Miracle has been transforming lives through education, scholarships, housing, and community projects.

Learn more about Make a Miracle: www.makeamiracle.net

About Real Impact Missions

Founded by Scott and Cara Boss in 1997, Real Impact Missions (RIM) specializes in Strategic Partnerships, Intentional Evangelism, Exemplary Leadership, and Ministry that Matters. Trips incorporate Gospel presentations, community development, construction projects, educational initiatives, medical clinics, and disaster response teams as ways to meet the needs presented by ministry partners.

Learn more about Real Impact Missions: www.realimpact.com

SOURCE International Medical Group (IMG)

Related Links

http://www.imglobal.com


SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Invitae Corporation (NYSE: NVTA), a leading medical genetics company, today announced that it will report its third quarter 2021 financial results on Monday, November 8, 2021, and will host a conference call and webcast that day at 4:30 p.m. Eastern / 1:30 p.m. Pacific to discuss its financial results and recent highlights.

To access the conference call, please register at the link below:

https://conferencingportals.com/event/DqFqYhVe

Upon registering, each participant will be provided with call details and a conference ID. Reminders will also be sent to registered participants via email.

The live webcast of the call and slide deck, may be accessed here or by visiting the investors section of the company's website at ir.invitae.com. A replay of the webcast and conference call will be available shortly after the conclusion of the call and will be archived on the company's website.

Following prepared remarks, management will respond to questions from analysts, subject to time limitations. The Company encourages shareholders and those representing them to send in questions to [email protected].

About Invitae

Invitae Corporation (NYSE: NVTA) is a leading medical genetics company, whose mission is to bring comprehensive genetic information into mainstream medicine to improve healthcare for billions of people. Invitae's goal is to aggregate the world's genetic tests into a single service with higher quality, faster turnaround time, and lower prices. For more information, visit the company's website at invitae.com.

Contact:

[email protected]

(628) 213-3369

SOURCE Invitae Corporation

Related Links

www.invitae.com


ROYAL OAK, Mich., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Jon D. Kreucher has been elected president and chief executive officer of Howard & Howard, a leading business law firm founded in Michigan. The announcement was made by the current President and CEO, Mark A. Davis, who will soon step down after leading the firm for the past 17 years.

Kreucher has practiced law for 30 years, holding positions at Fortune 100 companies and private law firms. An attorney with Howard & Howard for 18 years, he has worked across the firm's Business & Corporate; Business Litigation; Energy, Infrastructure & Utilities; and Labor, Employment & Immigration Practice Groups.

"I'm honored and excited to be selected by my colleagues to lead our law firm as it begins its 153rd year in business," said Kreucher. "On behalf of our entire team, I'd like to thank Mark Davis for his years of thoughtful leadership. I look forward to continuing Howard & Howard's long-standing commitment to providing exceptional legal services to our clients and offering a collegial and rewarding culture for our attorneys and employees."

According to Kreucher, his initial focus will include:

Maintaining the effort to run the firm like a business, which allows attorneys to focus on clients and to be among the most highly compensated in the markets Howard & Howard serves.

Emphasizing and enabling more utilization of technology to reduce time and improve cost efficiencies in legal research, e-discovery, document automation, asset management and compliance.

Improving the diversity of the firm's teams and fostering an environment which embraces a range of perspectives on work-life balance.

"The legal industry will experience more disruption in the next 10 years than in the previous 100. One important catalyst was the dramatic change ushered in by the pandemic," said Kreucher. "We're at an inflection point which will bring fundamental change to the way we deliver legal services to our clients. One of the most important functions of my role will be to make sure the firm evolves so our clients can continue to receive high quality and timely legal services at a reasonable cost."

"Jon is an accomplished attorney and leader who has made exceptional contributions to the firm and always delivered top-notch counsel to our clients. We're confident that Howard & Howard will continue to thrive and succeed under his vision and leadership," said Davis.

Kreucher has been selected to The Best Lawyers in America (2017-2021) and named to dBusiness magazine's "Top Lawyers" (2013-2014, 2019-2020). He is a summa cum laude graduate of Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School and he completed his undergraduate work at the University of Michigan.

Kreucher's term will commence on January 1, 2022.

About Howard & Howard

With a history spanning over 15 decades, Howard & Howard is a full-service law firm with a national and international practice, providing legal services to businesses and business owners. More than 140 attorneys practice out of offices in Royal Oak, Michigan; Illinois (Chicago and Peoria); Las Vegas, Nevada; and Beverly Hills, California. For more information, please visit howardandhoward.com.

SOURCE Howard & Howard
The first-ever Brands That Matter list honors brands that do more than sell products or provide services, giving people compelling reasons to care about themand offering inspiration for others to buy in. This year's Brands That Matter list features 95 companies and nonprofits that have achieved relevance through cultural impact and social engagement, and authentically communicated their missions and ideals. Kate Farms is one of four brands recognized in the category for midsize companies.

"Building a fast -growth company while doing good things for people aren't mutually exclusive," said Brett Matthews, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Kate Farms. "We are honored to be recognized as a Brand That Matters along with the other brands and non-profit organizations. Our Kate Farmers (aka employees) bring expertise and heart to helping people live their best lives through nutrition."

Kate Farms produces plant-based, organic, clinically proven formulas for tube feeding to help nourish those with chronic illnesses. The company also produces nutrition shakes consumed orally for people with shorter-term or milder conditions that don't require tube feeding. Made without major allergens, the product portfolio is USDA Organic-certified, vegan, gluten-free and kosher, and is accessible in more than 95% of U.S. hospitals.

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kate Farms has donated more than 300,000 meals to organizations focusing on meeting the nutrition needs of the most at-risk populations, from senior citizens and frontline healthcare workers to Native Americans and those experiencing homelessness. Partners include Support+Feed, The Campaign Against Hunger and the Brooklyn Borough, Meals on Wheels of California, the Frontline Impact Project, Tarrant Area Food Bank, Santa Barbara County Food Bank, and dozens of hospitals, senior living facilities and gluten-free and kosher emergency pantries.

"Fast Company is excited to highlight companies and organizations that have built brands with deep meaning and connections to the customers they serve. At a time when consumers are holding companies to very high standards, businesses have much to learn from these brands that have garnered respect and trust," says Stephanie Mehta, editor-in-chief of Fast Company.

The complete Brands That Matter list is available online now. The November issue of Fast Company magazine is available online and will be on newsstands beginning November 2, 2021.

ABOUT KATE FARMS

Kate Farms was founded in 2012 by parents Richard and Michelle Laver who were determined to save their daughter Kate's life after a diagnosis of failure to thrive. Katie is thriving today, and Kate Farms is now the #1 recommended plant-based formula. Kate Farms offers medical formulas for children and adults, to be used as sole source or supplemental nutrition, for oral or tube feeding. They are available nationally and eligible for insurance coverage with Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance. All Kate Farms formulas are made for tolerance with easily digested organic pea protein, soluble fiber, and phytonutrients to support gut health, and without common allergens or artificial ingredients. These formulas have been clinically proven to demonstrate improved tolerance, weight gain, and adherence. Kate Farms can be accessed in more than 600 US hospitals, including the top children's hospitals; availability is increasing daily. Kate Farms is also available to purchase at www.katefarms.com.

For more information, visit www.katefarms.com or follow the company on Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

CONTACT:

Allison+Partners

[email protected]

SOURCE Kate Farms

Related Links

http://www.katefarms.com


DES MOINES, Iowa, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Kemin Industries, a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services, will be exhibiting its latest solutions for whole body health at the SupplySide West tradeshow for health and nutrition industry professionals.

Kemin Human Nutrition and Health will be at Booth #5465 featuring its range of naturally sourced functional ingredient solutions to support vision; cognition; immune and gut health; beauty from within; and sleep and weight management.

Today's consumers are looking for ways to live healthier lives, and their awareness of the link between nutrition and overall health is growing. People are looking to healthy ingredients for support in a variety of areas, as well as simple ways to prioritize their health needs in everyday life.1

"The Kemin team is excited to meet with SupplySide West attendees as we kick off celebrations for the 25th anniversary of our FloraGLO program," said Penny Woods, Marketing Director, Kemin Human Nutrition and Health. "We will also be showcasing an interactive whole-body demonstration as an engaging way for attendees to explore each area of the human body and learn more about Kemin's functional ingredients for whole body health."

Kemin Human Nutrition and Health will showcase its science-based solutions, including:

FloraGLO  Lutein  The most studied lutein brand with over 100 clinical trials has offered a range of benefits for consumers including vision, cognition and beauty from within for 25 years.

The most studied lutein brand with over 100 clinical trials has offered a range of benefits for consumers including vision, cognition and beauty from within for 25 years. BetaVia  Pure  A new water-dispersible purified form of BetaVia algae-sourced beta glucan supports the immune system while helping to protect against oxidative stress.

 A new water-dispersible purified form of BetaVia algae-sourced beta glucan supports the immune system while helping to protect against oxidative stress. Nootropic solutions DailyZz and Neumentix  DailyZz is a natural, proprietary spearmint and green tea botanical dried extract blend, rich in naturally occurring polyphenols that promote healthy, better quality sleep and improve next day functioning in healthy adults who have occasional sleep complaints.2 Neumentix, a naturally sourced nootropic ingredient from a patented spearmint line bred to be high in antioxidant polyphenols, is formulated to support cognitive performance, specifically focus and working memory without disrupting nighttime sleep.3

Visit Kemin Human Nutrition and Health at Booth #5465 at SupplySide West.

Click here to learn more about Kemin Human Nutrition and Health's quality bioactives.

About Kemin Industries

Kemin Industries (www.kemin.com) is a global ingredient manufacturer that strives to sustainably transform the quality of life every day for 80 percent of the world with its products and services. The company supplies over 500 specialty ingredients for human and animal health and nutrition, pet food, aquaculture, nutraceutical, food technologies, crop technologies, textile, biofuels and animal vaccine industries.

For over half a century, Kemin has been dedicated to using applied science to address industry challenges and offer product solutions to customers in more than 120 countries. Kemin provides ingredients to feed a growing population with its commitment to the quality, safety and efficacy of food, feed and health-related products.

Established in 1961, Kemin is a privately held, family-owned-and-operated company with more than 2,800 global employees and operations in 90 countries, including manufacturing facilities in Belgium, Brazil, China, India, Italy, Russia, San Marino, Singapore, South Africa and the United States.

Media Contact:

Carrie Livingston, Director of Media Relations, [email protected], +1 815 519 8302

REFERENCES:

1 Health Management Trends: US, January 2021, Mintel.

2 Kemin Internal Document TD-19-6000, A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled Study to Assess the Effects of a Proprietary Spearmint Extract Blend, on Sleep in Healthy Men and Women.

3 Fonseca BA, Emilien C. Key Polyphenols in Neumentix Phenolic Complex K110-42 Can Act in Multiple Ways to Support Cognitive Performance. Kemin Tech Lit. 2016;TL-16-0007:1-9.

 Kemin Industries, Inc. and its group of companies 2021. All rights reserved.  TM Trademarks of Kemin Industries, Inc., U.S.A.

Certain statements, product labeling and claims may differ by geography or as required by government requirements.

SOURCE Kemin Industries
NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Amagi , a global leader in cloud-based SaaS technology for broadcast and connected TV, today announced its partnership with Law&Crime - a premier linear and OTT channel - for distributing their content to the newly launched Free Ad-Supported Streaming (FAST) TV platform, TCL, in the United States.

Law&Crime features multiple trials daily along with expert legal analysis and commentary. The channel is gearing up for gavel-to-gavel coverage of the highly anticipated trial in the death of Ahmaud Arbery, the unarmed black jogger in Georgia which was caught on tape. An expanding roster of original programs includes the weekly series "Coptales" with Sgt. Sean "Sticks" Larkin and "Brian Ross Investigates" hosted by former ABC Chief Investigative Correspondent, Brian Ross.

Amagi offers a comprehensive channel creation, distribution, and monetization solution. Using Amagi CONTENT PLUS, a non-exclusive, revenue share-based distribution model encompassing the channel playout solution Amagi CLOUDPORT, and ad insertion solution, Amagi THUNDERSTORM, Law&Crime is distributing and monetizing their linear content on TCL. The Roku Channel and Peacock are among the other FAST platforms that now host Law&Crime content, powered by Amagi's cloud-led technologies. Amagi has deep technical integrations with 50+ FAST platforms around the world. Several top tier content brands have leveraged its distribution network to enhance their reach among the millennial and Gen Z audience.

"Amagi's technology has given us access to millions of viewers around the world", said Alex Kopacz, Head of Content Distribution & Licensing, Law&Crime. "Their robust and accurate ad insertion solution has helped us scale our ad revenues, while offering unintrusive, tailored ad recommendations to our viewers. Amagi is truly the one-stop shop for any content creator looking to amplify their presence across FAST platforms."

"There is a lot of demand among new-age viewers for niche content of the kind that Law & Crime provides," said Srinivasan KA, Co-founder Amagi. "We're excited to have enabled their distribution to more devices and screens around the world, giving Law&Crime the reach that they rightfully deserve. And Amagi, in turn, gets to count Law&Crime among our list of niche content partners."

Amagi provides a complete suite of solutions for content creation, distribution, and monetization. The company also has a state-of-the-art cloud broadcast operations center that can support 1000+ live linear channels. Amagi clients include USA Today, ABS-CBN, A+E Networks UK, beIN Sports, CuriosityStream, Discovery Networks, Fox Networks, Fremantle, NBCUniversal, Tastemade, Tegna, Vice Media, and Warner Media, among others.

For more information about Amagi and its streaming TV solutions, visit www.amagi.com.

About Law & Crime

From the high-profile cases to the most compelling local trials, Law&Crime is the leading network offering daily trial coverage and expert legal commentary and analysis. Created by TV's top legal commentator and attorney, Dan Abrams, and backed by A+E Networks, Law&Crime is dedicated to exploring the always intriguing world of the law while also offering original true crime stories and legal programs to a broad, multi-platform audience. Law&Crime is available on almost every prominent OTT service including YouTube TV, Peacock, fuboTV, Sling, Philo, The Roku Channel, Xfinity, XUMO and TV Plus as well as on basic cable packages in most states in the country and across the Caribbean.

Law & Crime Contact

Jack Engoron

Affiliate Marketing Manager

Email: [email protected]

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.

Amagi Contact

Sanjay Kirimanjeshwar

Head of Global Marketing

Email: [email protected]

BOCA Communications

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Amagi Media Labs Pvt. Ltd

Related Links

https://www.amagi.com/


Speaking at the FII, His Excellency Ahmed Al Khateeb, Saudi Arabia's Minister of Tourism said: "Tourism is a vital sector  and it's growth is important to economies globally. More than 330 million people depend on tourism for their livelihoods. Prior to the pandemic, tourism accounted for 1 in 4 of all new jobs created across the world.

"The sector was hard-hit by COVID  with 62 million jobs lost. We must strengthen global coordination, to push tourism to the forefront of government agendas to create opportunities and sector resilience in the face of future challenges.

"Economies will not recover until tourism recovers. And that means we must unite to redesign tourism based on shared principles that define the future we want to see. I invite you all to join us, to accelerate the recovery and redesign tourism."

Led by Saudi Arabia and supported by the World Travel & Tourism Council, the Summit will endorse five 'Principles for Redesigning Tourism':

Tourism is a vital sector that shapes societies and builds economies Countries will not recover until tourism recovers To thrive, tourism needs effective public-private coordination and collaboration Tourism must be part of the solution to climate change Everyone has a stake in the future of tourism

Arnold Donald, Chair of the World Travel & Tourism Council, and President and CEO Carnival Corporation PLC welcomed the Principles for Redesigning Tourism on behalf of the private sector, saying: "It is of vital importance that as we reset the Travel & Tourism industry, we do it purposefully and collaboratively. I represent over 200 private sector CEOs  many of whom have called for greater collaboration with governments to ensure a focus on supporting business, enabling seamless travel, and strengthened support for key tourism destinations who need it most."

I am pleased to support the Principles for Redesigning Tourism which will ultimately strengthen the tourism industry and its livelihoods.

Julia Simpson, President & CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council added: "Travel & Tourism is a driving force behind the global economy. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic the Kingdom brought public and private sectors together, under their G20 Presidency. Today, they are bringing the leaders of Travel & Tourism to reignite the sector."

HE Gloria Guevara, Chief Special Advisor to the Saudi Arabian Minister of Tourism said: "It's great to see the tourism sector at the forefront of this important conference with thousands of public private leaders from the financial world, including investors and decision makers

"The biggest challenge our sector had last year was the lack of international coordination. The Principles recognize critical issues  prioritizing international collaboration to ensure that tourism is better for people, nature, communities and our society."

HE Al Khateeb concluded: "COVID-19 has had a devastating and disproportionate impact on developing countries - many of which rely heavily on tourism's contribution to their economies and survival. Developed countries will be impacted if we don't create jobs for the most needed. Tourism contributes to this growth by providing education and opportunities, while reducing poverty.

"The Principles for Redesigning Tourism will help us to jointly shape our future, for existing and new destinations. For our present and our future.

"I would like to thank the FII for putting tourism at the forefront of this year's 5th Anniversary agenda  recognizing the vital role the sector plays in rebuilding our world".

Notes to Editors

The Principles for Redesigning Tourism:

TOURISM IS A VITAL SECTOR THAT SHAPES SOCIETIES AND BUILDS ECONOMIES. Around the world more than 300 million people depend on tourism and the wealth that it generates for their livelihoods. Tourism is an enabler of socioeconomic development, job creation, poverty reduction and a driver of prosperity. It provides unique opportunities to women, minorities, rural communities, and youth. COUNTRIES WILL NOT RECOVER UNTIL TOURISM RECOVERS. Prior to the pandemic tourism accounted for 1 in 4 of all new jobs created across the world. COVID-19 has resulted in a 18.5% YOY fall in employment, and the sector's contribution to global GDP reduced by 49.1% in 2020.The impact on developing countries  many of which rely heavily on tourism's contribution to their economies  has been disproportionate. TO THRIVE, TOURISM NEEDS EFFECTIVE COORDINATION AND COLLABORATION. The sector is vulnerable to shocks, due to its uniquely interconnected and interrelated nature. We need greater international collaboration and empowered international organizations, to reposition the tourism sector more prominently on a global scale. This would ensure an integrated and coordinated approach that maximizes the sector's contribution to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. TOURISM MUST BE PART OF THE SOLUTION TO CLIMATE CHANGE. Tourism currently contributes 8% to global greenhouse gas emissions, and the sector is forecast to grow in the coming decades. We need to work together to reduce our contribution to global emissions, and support the millions of SMEs that make up 80% of the global sector in protecting the planet whilst continuing to provide jobs and growth. EVERYONE HAS A STAKE IN THE FUTURE OF TOURISM. The critical importance of this industry means that we all have a stake in its future. We must work together  governments and private sector, developed and developing nations  to strengthen tourism organizations and increase representation in forums like the G20 so that we deliver the future for tourism that we all want and need.

SOURCE Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia
TAMPA, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The nation's leading personal injury attorneys are helping their local communities during this year's "Day of Action," a national event sponsored by "Injury Board."

More than 100 attorneys and law firms are offering legal guidance, community support, and restaurant gift cards to the frontline professionals and community members impacted by the pandemic.

Attorney John Lewis and his team preparing for Injury Board's annual "Day of Action." The law firm of Lewis and Feldman is in Birmingham, AL.

The legal guidance helps medical workers unable to deal with personal legal issues while providing lifesaving care. The restaurant gift cards serve the dual purpose of providing much needed liquidity to local eateries while providing a "thank you" to those working so hard.

"Injury Board members do whatever it takes to help their communities," said Injury Board founder and Attorney Tom Young. "There is nothing more important right now than helping those who are helping so many more."

Among Injury Board's members, Attorney Tim Smith at Smith and Johnson in Traverse City, Michigan, purchased $2,000 in local restaurant gift cards and is distributing them to local ER workers.

"This is a wonderful opportunity to support not only our clients," said Smith, "but our great community at large."

Attorney Jon Lewis at Lewis and Feldman in Birmingham, AL purchased $1,000 in gift cards from local restaurants, and is distributing them at local hospitals.

"This allows us to give back to our local community in a positive way," said Lewis.

In South Florida, Searcy Denney is working with El Sol, an organization that helps laborers, their children and families.

"We are honored to help this vital resource providing employment, wellness, education and other support to immigrant families in South Florida since 2006," said Partner Brenda Fulmer.

Founded in 2001, Injury Board is a membership organization comprised of leading trial attorneys in the United States and the United Kingdom.

Injury Board Day of Action Participants:

Arias Sanguinetti Wang & Torrijos, Los Angeles, CA

Barnes Trial Group, Tampa, FL

Bradshaw & Bryant, Waite Park, MN

Calwell, Luce & diTrapano, Charleston, WV

Childers, Schlueter & Smith, LLC, Atlanta, GA

Curcio Law, Alexandria, VA

Farris Riley Pitt, Birmingham, AL

Folkman Law, Cherry Hill, NJ

Fulmer Sill, Oklahoma City, OK

Hugh James, Cardiff, WL

Inserra l Kelley l Sewell Injury Attorneys, Omaha, NE

Kitrick, Lewis & Harris Co., L.P.A., Columbus, OH

Leonard Legal Group, Morristown, NJ

Lewis & Feldman, LLC, Birmingham, AL

Mandell, Boisclair and Mandell, Providence, RI

Nelson & Fraenkel, Los Angeles, CA

O'Keeffe O'Brien Lyson Attorneys, Fargo, ND

Paulson & Nace, PLLC, Washington, DC

Pogust Millrood, LLC, Conshohocken, PA

Prince Glover Hayes, Tuscaloosa, AL

Prince Law Firm, Marion, IL

Rapoport Weisberg & Sims, P.C., Chicago, IL

Saunders & Walker PA, Pinellas Park, FL

Searcy Denney Scarola Barnhart & Shipley, West Palm Beach, FL

Shaheen & Gordon, Manchester, NH

Smith & Johnson, Attorneys PC, Traverse City, MI

The Cochran Firm, Dallas, TX

Tor Hoerman Law, Edwardsville, IL

Wayne Parsons Law Office, Honolulu, HI

Wooten Kimborough Damaso & Dennis, Orlando, FL

Thomas Law Offices, Louisville, KY

MEDIA CONTACT: Andrew Colton 877-484-4611

SOURCE Injury Board
More than 800,000 Conde Nast Traveler readers submitted responses rating their travel experiences across the globe to provide a full snapshot about the places they can't wait to return to next. The Readers' Choice Awards are the longest-running and most prestigious recognition of excellence in the travel industry. The full list of winners can be found here.

"It's rewarding to see that our guests once again voted for us on Conde Nast Traveler's distinguished list of the Top 25 Hotels in New York City," said Mitchell Hochberg, President of Lightstone. "Our guests and Conde Nast Traveler readers have spoken, recognizing that our hotels satisfy their desire for memorable experiences and meaningful social interactions, not just a place to sleep."

Moxy Chelsea blends botanically inspired design with Italian romance and packs in all the amenities with none of the price tag. Cozy bedrooms, designed with intelligenceand a touch of witare flooded with light thanks to floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall windows. The building's architecture honors the neighborhood with its industrial facade and soaring, greenhouse-style atrium. Guests enter through an overgrown flower shop that doubles as the hotel's entrance. New bars and restaurants by TAO Group include Feroce Ristorante, Feroce Caffe, and Bar Feroce - dining and drinking concepts in partnership with Francesco Panella of the legendary Antica Pesa in Rome and Brooklyn. Topping off the hotel is The Fleur Room, a glass-enclosed rooftop lounge with panoramic, 360 views.

Moxy Times Square, an energetic alternative to the typical hotel experience, roves that affordability doesn't mean sacrificing style or comfort. 612 bedrooms are cleverly designed by Yabu Pushelberg to adapt to today's traveler's changing needs, with a wide variety of room types, flexible furniture, and oversized walk-in rain showers. New eating and drinking destinations operated by TAO Group include Magic Hour, NYC's largest all-season hotel rooftop bar and lounge that features an "urban amusement park" concept and epic skyline views; Legasea Bar & Grill, a neighborhood favorite serving a modern take on bar and grill classics; and Bar Moxy, a communal lobby bar. Blind Barber, a NYC based barber shop, provides cuts, shaves, and blow dry & style services from their lobby shop. Famed celebrity tattoo artist JonBoy offers coveted tattoo appointments five days a week in his personalized studio in Bar Moxy.

The 2021 Readers' Choice Awards are published on Conde Nast Traveler's website at cntraveler.com/rca and celebrated in the November issue.

About Lightstone

Lightstone, founded by David Lichtenstein, is one of the largest and most diversified privately held real estate companies in the United States. Lightstone is active in 25 states across the country, developing, managing and investing in all sectors of the real estate market, including residential, hospitality, commercial, and retail. With 142 existing properties, Lightstone's over $6.5 billion portfolio currently includes over 5 million square feet of industrial, retail, and office properties, over 15,850 residential units, and over 4,300 hotel keys. Lightstone also owns over 10,000 land lots across the country.

Headquartered in New York City, Lightstone continues to grow its development portfolio with over $3.5 billion currently under development in the residential and hospitality sectors spread across New York City, Los Angeles, and Miami. Following the award-winning openings of Moxy Times Square, Moxy Chelsea, and Moxy East Village, Lightstone opened Moxy Miami South Beach in 2021. Moxy and AC Hotel Los Angeles Downtown and New York's Moxy Lower East Side and Moxy Williamsburg are also under construction and opening in 2022.

About Moxy Hotels

Moxy Hotels is Marriott International's new millennial-focused brand that debuted in September 2014 with the opening of the Moxy Milan. A boutique-hotel concept for the next-Gen traveler, Moxy is a fresh and innovative brand combining stylish design and approachable service at an affordable price point. With tech-enabled rooms, vibrant lobby spaces and warm, modern service, Moxy aims to surprise travelers with a thoughtful, spirited and fun guest experience.

SOURCE LIGHTSTONE

Related Links

http://www.lightstonegroup.com


Meridian Integration Launches New Digital Customer Engagement Mobile App Tweet this

EPE customers can now easily access their EPE account and take advantage of new features right at their fingertips with the new El Paso Electric mobile app. The app comes equipped with all the familiar, useful features found on the EPE Manage My Account online portal at epelectric.com and powered by Meridian's IDEA solution. This means customers can access their account on the mobile app with the same login and password used to access their EPE account online or customers can sign up on the app too.

"The El Paso Electric mobile app is leveraging the power of technology to make it easier for our mobile enabled customers to access their account and enhance their customer experience," shares EPE Vice President Cheryl Mele. "Today, mobile apps are inherent to any business. Customers want multiple channels to interact with EPE and our new app closes the gap on one service our customers wanted. We are proud to unveil this intuitive app that can provide customers insight to their energy usage and guide them to implement changes that help them to manage their energy usage." The app can be downloaded from either Apple Store or Google Play by simply searching El Paso Electric.

About Meridian Integration

Founded in 2008, Meridian Integration provides turnkey technology solutions focused on digital customer engagement and business process consulting for the Utility industry. Meridian is member of the Oracle Partner Network and has worked with hundreds of utilities since inception creating sustainable value while leveraging a broad portfolio of solutions and services such as IDEA, Meridian's Customer Digital Engagement platform, Implementation/Upgrade services, and Managed Services within the Oracle Utilities product family. www.meridian-integration.com

About El Paso Electric

El Paso Electric is a regional electric utility providing generation, transmission, and distribution service to approximately 444,300 retail and wholesale customers in a 10,000-square mile area of the Rio Grande valley in west Texas and southern New Mexico. www.epelectric.com

Contact: Todd Lamoureaux

[email protected]

SOURCE Meridian Integration

Related Links

meridian-integration.com


ANN ARBOR, Mich., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan announced a new initiative to prepare students for thriving careers at the intersection of business and technology.

The Business+Tech initiative at Michigan Ross will offer innovative action-based learning and co-curricular experiences for undergraduate and graduate students at Ross and beyond to equip them with tech knowledge and skills that they can utilize to make a positive impact in business and society.

For years, Michigan Ross and several of its centers and institutes have invested in developing a robust portfolio of opportunities exploring the intersection of business and technology. These include forums with industry executives, action based projects, and learning engagements for students on topics such as data analytics, digital marketing, fintech, and digital operations. The new Business+Tech initiative will bring these offerings together and create new opportunities for student engagement as well as direct connections to industry leaders and innovators.

"Technology is playing an increasingly significant role in transforming business models and every aspect of value creation, including how products and services are developed and offered, and how customers interact with companies and organizations. We recognize that our graduates need to be literate, competent, and ultimately masters of the ways in which tech is transforming business," said M.S. Krishnan , Accenture Professor of Computer Information Systems and professor of technology and operations at Michigan Ross, who will serve as the faculty director of the Business+Tech initiative.

"The market has made a seismic shift towards technology in every industry," said Phil Brabbs, the initiative's managing director. "Michigan Ross students recognize that career opportunities at the intersection of technology and business functions are expanding across industries. Business+Tech aims to be a platform that prepares our students to emerge as effective leaders in the emerging technology-enabled business world."

The Business+Tech initiative will function similarly to the business school's Business+Impact initiative , which serves as the business school's center for impact-related resources, action-based courses, co-curricular experiences, and events. Similarly, Business+Tech will focus on building and enhancing cross-campus collaboration to promote tech at U-M. The initiative's interdisciplinary programming and events will bring together students and faculty from schools across campus to leverage the skills and expertise that can be found throughout the university.

Along with hosting established annual events, such as the Datathon, FinTech Challenge, and SportsTech Conference, Business+Tech is organizing many new events and programs this year, including a +Tech Innovation Jam, which will take place in October and November. There was also the +Tech Literacy Download at the beginning of October, which allowed students to develop their tech literacy skills from a selection of 25 sessions. Topics covered emerging technologies, such as blockchain and artificial intelligence; coding languages, including Python and SQL; tech systems like cybersecurity and analytics; tech management, including user experience and user interface; and tech trends, such as digital branding and marketing.

Michigan Ross Tech Scholars and Analysts Program

In addition, Business+Tech will house a new paid opportunity for Ross students to get involved in its offerings through the Michigan Ross Tech Scholars and Analysts Program.

This year, there are eight graduate Ross Tech Scholars and eight undergraduate Ross Tech Analysts, who are researching new and emerging tech trends and working with leading U-M faculty researchers. These students are also leading activities and events, including launching a newsletter on business and tech, consolidating information about tech resources on campus, developing tech tool workshops, and much more.

To learn more about the Business+Tech Initiative at Michigan Ross, visit: https://businesstech.bus.umich.edu/ .

About Michigan Ross

The Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan is a diverse learning community grounded in the principle that business can be an extraordinary vehicle for positive change in today's dynamic global economy. The Ross School of Business mission is to build a better world through business. Through thought and action, members of the Ross community drive change and innovation that improves business and society.

Michigan Ross is consistently ranked among the world's leading business schools. Academic degree programs include the Bachelor of Business Administration, Full-Time MBA, Part-Time MBA (Evening, Online, and Weekend formats), Executive MBA, Global MBA, Master of Accounting, Master of Business Analytics, Master of Management, Master of Supply Chain Management, and PhD. In addition, the school delivers open enrollment and custom executive education programs targeting general management, leadership development, and strategic human resource management. For more information, visit MichiganRoss.umich.edu.

SOURCE Stephen M. Ross School of Business
EDISON, N.J., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Indecomm Global Services, a leading provider of digital solutions and services for the mortgage lending industry, was a Bronze sponsor of this year's MBA Annual Convention, held October 17-20, 2021 in San Diego, CA. It was the first time the industry got back together to meeting in person in large numbers after two full years due to the ongoing pandemic. Reflecting on last week's event, Indecomm's team sees it as a memorable experience in many ways:

Mortgage industry leaders return to the industry's premier event to network and connect at MBA Annual 2021.

The economic landscape had changed significantly since the last MBA Annual Convention in 2019, held in Austin, TX. Dwindling home inventories coupled with a forecasted drop in refi volumes are presenting a double whammy for lenders in the year to come.

Dwindling home inventories coupled with a forecasted drop in refi volumes are presenting a double whammy for lenders in the year to come. Work from home is now the dominant mode of work for employees across all industries, including the mortgage industry.

The "Great Resignation" has further exacerbated the demand for talent in the mortgage industry, further pushing lenders to find innovative ways to be productive and profitable.

Indecomm's leadership team had a packed calendar filled with back-to-back meetings each day of the convention, starting with breakfast meetings, and ending with dinner meetings. The meetings with mortgage lenders of all sizes  from mega banks to large/medium and small independents  provided Indecomm with excellent perspectives about how the market has changed these past few years from an automation perspective, shared below.

Level of Knowledge About Automation Solutions Has Increased

Mortgage lenders have aggressively embraced automation over the past few years, often starting with native automation in loan origination (LOS) and servicing systems, supported by robotic process automation (RPA) for tasks that cannot be automated natively and enhanced by intelligent, data-driven automation. "The level of knowledge and understanding about the different underlying technologies driving these automation initiatives has improved vastly," said Narayan Bharadwaj , SVP of Automation for Indecomm. "The mortgage lenders that we spoke with definitely seemed to be more discerning and curious about the types of automation frameworks, their efficacy, accuracy, throughput rates, ROI and sustainability." This is fantastic and a welcome progress as the market will separate the solutions which are truly effective versus the ones where marketing budgets exceed core product development budgets.



Mortgage lenders have aggressively embraced automation over the past few years, often starting with native automation in loan origination (LOS) and servicing systems, supported by robotic process automation (RPA) for tasks that cannot be automated natively and enhanced by intelligent, data-driven automation. "The level of knowledge and understanding about the different underlying technologies driving these automation initiatives has improved vastly," said , SVP of Automation for Indecomm. "The mortgage lenders that we spoke with definitely seemed to be more discerning and curious about the types of automation frameworks, their efficacy, accuracy, throughput rates, ROI and sustainability." This is fantastic and a welcome progress as the market will separate the solutions which are truly effective versus the ones where marketing budgets exceed core product development budgets. Severe Buyer's Remorse on RPA

Many mortgage lenders Indecomm spoke with had gone down the path of selecting and implementing an in-house RPA platform only to be stung by the lack of ROI or the frustration of having to deal with the unknowns in the RPA world, which even their technology partner was clueless about. Lenders, especially the ones who had experimented with RPA, have a very clear understanding of what to automate, how to automate, and what to expect as the outcome of automation. As RPA-led automation matures, this level of knowledge is much needed to make RPA initiatives successful.



Many mortgage lenders Indecomm spoke with had gone down the path of selecting and implementing an in-house RPA platform only to be stung by the lack of ROI or the frustration of having to deal with the unknowns in the RPA world, which even their technology partner was clueless about. Lenders, especially the ones who had experimented with RPA, have a very clear understanding of what to automate, how to automate, and what to expect as the outcome of automation. As RPA-led automation matures, this level of knowledge is much needed to make RPA initiatives successful. In-House RPA Is Not Sustainable

Perhaps the most insightful observation Indecomm's leaders came away with is that mortgage lenders who have implemented RPA with DIY platforms are struggling. "We spoke to a variety of lenders, especially banks, regardless of their size, who have tried to build DIY RPA, but are suffering from the fallout of maintenance," said Bharadwaj. "For example, a very large bank implemented RPA going in with the corporate mandate but was stuck in the resource allocation and maintenance challenge with the centralized RPA Center of Excellence (CoE). When their bots broke, they remained broken for months together without a fix. This means that the operational capacity released by the bank due to automation had to be brought back. This is a nightmare of epic proportions!" On the other end of the spectrum, a small community bank who had gone down this path was finding it hard to hire and retain RPA talent and are very worried about the ability to run this in a sustainable manner. While in-house RPA may be effective in some scenarios, banks and lenders who jump into this without considering the long-term aspects of it tend to have a rough ride ahead of them.



Perhaps the most insightful observation Indecomm's leaders came away with is that mortgage lenders who have implemented RPA with DIY platforms are struggling. "We spoke to a variety of lenders, especially banks, regardless of their size, who have tried to build DIY RPA, but are suffering from the fallout of maintenance," said Bharadwaj. "For example, a very large bank implemented RPA going in with the corporate mandate but was stuck in the resource allocation and maintenance challenge with the centralized RPA Center of Excellence (CoE). When their bots broke, they remained broken for months together without a fix. This means that the operational capacity released by the bank due to automation had to be brought back. This is a nightmare of epic proportions!" On the other end of the spectrum, a small community bank who had gone down this path was finding it hard to hire and retain RPA talent and are very worried about the ability to run this in a sustainable manner. While in-house RPA may be effective in some scenarios, banks and lenders who jump into this without considering the long-term aspects of it tend to have a rough ride ahead of them. Decision Management Is Clearly the Next Frontier of Automation

The number of mortgage lenders who want to automate their decision management is staggering. Lenders expect decision management systems to drive straight through automation in underwriting, but also deliver the transparency that helps lenders understand how a decision was derived. For instance, Indecomm's DecisionGenius  software delivers straight-through automation to automatically move a loan to the next milestone, while providing complete transparency to lenders, backed up by all data and calculations made to arrive at that decision.



The number of mortgage lenders who want to automate their decision management is staggering. Lenders expect decision management systems to drive straight through automation in underwriting, but also deliver the transparency that helps lenders understand how a decision was derived. For instance, Indecomm's DecisionGenius software delivers straight-through automation to automatically move a loan to the next milestone, while providing complete transparency to lenders, backed up by all data and calculations made to arrive at that decision. Reimagining Loan Manufacturing

With the maturity of automation solutions across the continuum from RPA, Intelligent Automation to Supervised Automation, mortgage lenders are reimagining the loan manufacturing process. Lenders today have the capability to automate routine tasks using RPA, drive straight-through processing using data, and use human intelligence to perform higher order functions such as exception management and other tasks requiring cognitive intelligence. This new world where human cognitive intelligence and a machine-driven intelligence co-exist has already become a reality in many mortgage banks. "If one were to compare the process maps and swim-lane diagrams of the manufacturing process ten years ago versus today, the interplay of RPA, API-led automation, data-driven straight-through automation, and human interaction is striking," said Bharadwaj. Clearly, more lenders are aware of the possibilities of this new world and are constantly reimagining this interplay.

Did you attend MBA's Annual Convention 2021? What were your observations? We want to know what you think! Visit us on social media or email your thoughts to [email protected]

About Indecomm

Founded more than 25 years ago, Indecomm Global Services is a leading provider of business services and technology for the US mortgage industry. The company is headquartered in New Jersey with over 1,200 employees worldwide. Indecomm services and solutions support every stage of the mortgage lifecycle with automation and software, outsourcing and project management, and compliance and education. With a focus on technology solutions first, we partner with large and mid-sized lenders, servicers, mortgage insurers, and title companies to achieve one specific goal-to help them grow. Our longevity in the ever-changing mortgage industry is our strength. We have worked diligently in the outsourcing and consulting spaces to develop tools and resources using extensive feedback from both clients and internal associates. Visit us at http://mortgage.indecomm.net.

Press Contact: Krista K. Sabol

Marketing Director, Indecomm

[email protected]

540-533-0991

SOURCE Indecomm

Related Links

http://www.mortgage.indecomm.net


WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- NASA will hold a media teleconference at 1:30 p.m. EDT Friday, Oct. 29 to share information about the Sub-Mesoscale Ocean Dynamics Experiment (S-MODE), a campaign to study small ocean whirlpools, eddies, and currents. Understanding small-scale ocean dynamics will help scientists better understand how Earth's oceans help slow climate change.

Audio of the call will stream live and supporting visuals will be posted to the agency's website. Participants include:

Nadya Vinogradova-Shiffer , program manager and program scientist from NASA's Earth Science Division at agency Headquarters in Washington

, program manager and program scientist from NASA's Earth Science Division at agency Headquarters in J. Tom Farrar , S-MODE principal investigator, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Members of the media must request access to the virtual event no later than 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 29, by sending their full name, media affiliation, email address, and phone number to Elena Johnson at: [email protected] or Ellen Gray at: [email protected].

S-MODE employs aircraft, a research vessel, and several autonomous ocean robots. The research team aims to understand the role ocean processes play in how surface heat, nutrients, oxygen, and carbon move to deeper ocean layers. Scientists believe these types of eddies play an important role in the exchange of heat and gases between air and sea.

The research vessel Oceanus went to sea Oct. 19 off the coast of San Francisco, accompanied by a fleet of several types of autonomous marine research vehicles. Over a period of three weeks, NASA planes will fly overhead to collect measurements while the vessel and the autonomous vehicles sample the ocean. The participating NASA aircraft are its King Air B-200 and Twin Otter DHC6.

For more information on S-MODE, visit:

https://espo.nasa.gov/s-mode/

SOURCE NASA

Related Links

http://www.nasa.gov


LISLE, Ill., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Navistar today celebrates its Supplier Diversity Program's 40th anniversary. The Supplier Diversity Program, which has over 1,025 members, is designed to develop and foster strategic supplier relationships with companies owned by minorities, women, veterans and small business enterprises.

Since 2018, Navistar has spent over $2 billion with diverse suppliers and is the first U.S. truck original equipment manufacturer with a formal supplier diversity program. In 2020, Navistar's Supplier Diversity leadership team, comprised of Nicole Wiggins, Corporate Diversity and Inclusion Leader; Jennifer Lee, Supplier Diversity Analyst; Raquel Salter, Supplier Diversity Program Manager; and Sharee Sheptick, Supplier Diversity Coordinator; won the "Minority Business News" All-Stars of Supplier Diversity Award. Because of Navistar's Supplier Diversity Program's success, other companies have looked to the program's leaders for tips on building their own.

"Navistar's program has become a benchmark and trailblazer for companies within the trucking industry and beyond," said Wiggins. "We strive to do everything with a best-in-class mentality."

Sheptick added, "Each and every supplier in our program provides a large impact, whether it is to one team at Navistar or many," said Sheptick. "For every supplier we help support through our program, we greatly benefit from their unique points of view and expertise."

To commemorate 40 years of the Supplier Diversity Program, Navistar hosted a virtual celebration with addresses from key leaders. The theme of the event focused on reflection of the past, celebration of the present and looking toward the future. The City of Chicago Chief Diversity Officer Marcus Miller gave a keynote address, discussing the history of supplier diversity, its importance and economic impact on companies.

Five awards were also given at the virtual event. The awards were presented to Navistar suppliers and employees who showcased significant commitment to the program, and the exceptional products and services provided.

Trailblazer Award : Awarded to a Navistar supplier who comes up with new and innovative ideas and ways of doing things.

Winner: THORS eLearning Solutions

: Awarded to a Navistar supplier who comes up with new and innovative ideas and ways of doing things. Winner: THORS eLearning Solutions Catalyst for Change Award : Awarded to a Navistar supplier who empowers Navistar employees by providing training opportunities to gain new skills.

Winner: Georgia Dudley , Empowering Women Network, Inc.

: Awarded to a Navistar supplier who empowers Navistar employees by providing training opportunities to gain new skills. Winner: , Empowering Women Network, Inc. Collaborator Award : Awarded to a Navistar supplier who works closely with the Navistar team to understand current requirements while looking ahead to anticipate future needs.

Winner: Chrysan

: Awarded to a Navistar supplier who works closely with the Navistar team to understand current requirements while looking ahead to anticipate future needs. Winner: Chrysan Excellence Award : Awarded to a Navistar supplier who demonstrates excellence in their products and customer service interactions.

Winner: Laurie Pasler , Blufish Productions

: Awarded to a Navistar supplier who demonstrates excellence in their products and customer service interactions. Winner: , Blufish Productions Helping Hand Ambassador Award : Awarded to a Navistar individual who demonstrates a longstanding and consistent commitment to Supplier Diversity.

Winner: Lisa McLuckie , Senior Supply Continuity Manager

: Awarded to a Navistar individual who demonstrates a longstanding and consistent commitment to Supplier Diversity. Winner: , Senior Supply Continuity Manager Above and Beyond Procurement Leader Award : Awarded to a Navistar individual recognized for their commitment to Supplier Diversity and outstanding efforts in advancing purchasing opportunities for diverse businesses.

Winner: Alex Bansal , Senior Category Manager, Procurement

: Awarded to a Navistar individual recognized for their commitment to Supplier Diversity and outstanding efforts in advancing purchasing opportunities for diverse businesses. Winner: , Senior Category Manager, Procurement Outstanding Procurement Director Award: Awarded to a Navistar individual who promotes corporate advocacy and the development of diverse suppliers.

Winner: James Spaulding , Procurement Director, Indirect

To learn more about Navistar's Supplier Diversity Program, visit the Supplier Diversity page on Navistar's website. To apply to the program, visit the Supplier Diversity Portal.

About Navistar

Navistar, Inc. ("Navistar") is a purpose-driven company, reimagining how to deliver what matters to create more cohesive relationships, build higher-performing teams and find solutions where others don't. Based in Lisle, Illinois, Navistar or its subsidiaries and affiliates produce International brand commercial trucks and engines, IC Bus brand school and commercial buses, all-makes OnCommand Connection advanced connectivity services, and Fleetrite, ReNEWeD and Diamond Advantage brand aftermarket parts and includes a Brazilian manufacturer of engines and gensets, MWM Motores Diesel e Geradores. With a history of innovation dating back to 1831, Navistar has more than 12,000 employees worldwide and is part of TRATON SE, a global champion of the truck and transport services industry. Additional information is available at www.Navistar.com.

All marks are trademarks of their respective owners.

SOURCE Navistar International Corporation

Related Links

http://www.navistar.com


JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- COVID-19 and the social injustice crises of 2020-2021 shined a new light on the systemic disparities in the U.S. health care system. Some disparities  such as with maternal and infant health  have been understood within the industry. But startling new research published last month found that Black children experience higher complication rates than White children after having their appendix removed, an indication that such inequities are more widespread than previously believed.

The Health Evolution Forum is underwritten by:

A dearth of data hinders a more comprehensive understanding. Recognizing that fact, a Health Evolution Forum work group has been convening across the past year to agree on a consistent set of measures and approach to collecting, stratifying, and analyzing disparities data. Already, approximately 40 leading organizations have signed the corresponding Health Equity Pledge, committing to collect data about race, ethnicity, language, and sex (REaLS) and then share what they learn to develop best practices that are ultimately disseminated broadly across the industry. Nemours Children's Health, which earlier this year announced a new five-year strategic plan to redefine children's health, joined the pledge to amplify its efforts to advance health equity for children. Nemours Children's addresses the whole health of children by addressing the social determinants of health in addition to traditional care received in the doctor's office.

"To create the healthiest generations of children we must focus beyond medical factors and look at how communities, schools, and policies affect health," said R. Lawrence Moss, MD, FACS, FAAP, president and CEO of Nemours Children's Health. "Joining this pledge will ensure that we are holding ourselves accountable for providing equitable care to all children and influencing others to act as boldly. Together, with the Health Evolution Forum, we hope to improve the health, wellness, and lives of children everywhere."

Going forward, the Health Evolution Forum will convene executive leadership and subject matter experts to develop real-world solutions around:

Increasing collection of voluntarily self-reported (gold standard) race, ethnicity, language, and sex data

Strengthening industry partnerships to dismantle collection and stratification barriers, including with large employers

Driving more consistent adoption of data standards and definitions for improved stratification and review

"A concerted commitment to such collection and stratification for all key quality and performance metrics is critical to understanding and, most important, redressing disparities," said Richard Schwartz, President, Health Evolution. "We are pleased to serve as a learning lab for this important endeavor and welcome other industry leaders to join in."

Learn more and endorse the Health Equity Pledge.

Per results from a preliminary 2021 survey conducted by the Health Evolution Forum, the vast majority of responding organizations are collecting some patient/member data on race and ethnicity, but sizeable shortfalls remain in these collection efforts. Fewer organizations are tracking data at all on language and sex and only 30% regularly review the disparities data they do collect. And none of the respondents stratified these data for all or nearly all (greater than 90%) of their business lines.

"Too few organizations are actually analyzing disparities data internally, developing dashboards, embedding it into clinical workflows, and making it public," says Laurie Zephyrin, MD, who is a Forum Fellow, and Vice President, Advancing Health Equity, at The Commonwealth Fund.

These substantial gaps limit awareness and ability to implement equity-focused interventions and establish accountability mechanisms that strategically address health disparities.

To reduce variation in the ways data is applied to advance equity, Forum Fellows and other organizations pledge to, in the next three years:

Collect REaLS data for at least 50% of the organization's patient, member, or customer population Stratify and regularly review these collected data by the top-priority quality or access metric for 90% of major business lines and/or departments/divisions of adequate size Participate in the Health Evolution Health Equity Learning Lab by sharing stratified data for select measures to facilitate anonymized benchmarking and to identify best practices for reducing disparities

"It was important for us to figure out how to address this issue in ways that could resonate with everybody in our health care system, because our health care system doesn't exist outside the void of the social polarization in our country," said Mark Smith, MD, a Forum Fellow and Founding President & Former CEO, California Health Care Foundation. "Equity is not separate from qualityit is part of quality. One doesn't have to necessarily agree with my definition of social justice or yours to have equity as a professional aspiration and goal to which we hold ourselves and our institutions accountable."

Organizations that have signed on to the Pledge to date:

Health plans: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Blue Cross Blue Shield Association, GuideWell & Florida Blue, North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, SCAN Health Plan

Health care providers: AIRnyc, Cancer Treatment Centers of America, Cityblock Health, Eleanor Health, Everside Health, Galileo, Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare, Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Hazel Health, John Muir Health, Link Primary Care, Marshfield Clinic Health System, Monogram Health, Nemours Children's Health System, Northwell Health, Oak Street Health, Rebalanced-Life Wellness Association, Spectrum Health, SUN Behavioral Health, Thomas Jefferson University and Jefferson Health, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, University of California Health, VillageMD

Other organizations and individuals: ARCHANGELS, Accountable Care Learning Collaborative, Bloom Standard | Newborn Foundation, Capital Rx, Change Healthcare, eMed, Health Level Seven, Inc., Mark Smith - Founding President & Former CEO of California Health Care Foundation, Newtopia, Primary.Health, Socially Determined

About Nemours Children's Health. Nemours Children's Health is one of the nation's largest multistate pediatric health systems, including two free-standing children's hospitals and a network of nearly 75 primary and specialty care practices across five states. Nemours seeks to transform the health of children by adopting a holistic health model that utilizes innovative, safe, and high-quality care, while also caring for the health of the whole child beyond medicine. Nemours also powers the world's most-visited website for information on the health of children and teens, Nemours KidsHealth.org.

The Nemours Foundation, established through the legacy and philanthropy of Alfred I. duPont, provides pediatric clinical care, research, education, advocacy, and prevention programs to the children, families, and communities it serves.

About Health Evolution. Health Evolution engages chief executives, presidents, founders, board chairs, policymakers and other top industry leaders. We do this by convening in-person and virtual gatherings, publishing insights and analyzing information that helps industry leaders accelerate progress, develop opportunities and shape new strategies. Health Evolution supports executives seeking to create a high quality and efficient health care system based on prevention, affordability, access, equity and outcomes for people and their communities. The Health Evolution Forum is a peer-to-peer collaboration among leaders across health care sectors focused on driving near-term impact at a critical juncture for health care. The Forum consists of Fellows participating in three RoundtablesNew Models of Care Delivery, Next Generation IT in Health Care, and Community Health and Advancing Health Equitythat leverage the deep expertise of Fellows to accelerate American health care's transformation into a more equitable and effective marketplace amid the COVID-19 pandemic, severe economic challenges, and the health disparities highlighted by them.

SOURCE Nemours Children's Health System
MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Four experienced employment lawyers have joined forces to launch a new firm  MJSB Employment Justice.

MJSB Employment Justice Law is a 50% woman-owned firm with four equal partners  Chris Moreland, Bree Johnson, Ross Stadheim and Amy Boyle - all of whom bring significant employment law experience to MJSB Employment Justice, boasting over 50 years of combined law firm practice and success. MJSB Employment Justice launches as a new firm with an original client-centered mission, a contemporary office, and state-of-the-art website.

"I'm most excited to work alongside lawyers who are equally committed to securing employee rights in the workplace, even in the face of powerful employers who seek to silence them," said Bree Johnson. "Together, we at MJSB Employment Justice will fight for all employees harmed in the workplace by wrongful termination, harassment, discrimination and more. We have the experience, the corporate and business insight, and the passion to fiercely advocate for each and every one of our clients."

Moreland, Stadheim, and Boyle have represented hundreds of clients in courts across the country, and have all held leadership positions in law firms and professional organizations over the course of their long careers. With the new law firm, they will continue to build on their legacy of excellent representation. "There isn't any area of employment law that is new or unheard of to us," said Ross Stadheim. "If it's out there, we've seen it and litigated it. We have the skills and experience to handle any case from start all the way through trial if necessary." With the launch of MJSB Employment Justice, all four partners will empower new clients to fight for their right to be heard.

Johnson, who will serve as MJSB's Managing Partner, previously had her own practice, Lotas Legal, an established, local employment law firm known for its client-centered, holistic advocacy, and worked as a big law Chief Strategy Officer. She brings a unique perspective to the business side of law practice, which will also serve to ensure MJSB Employment Justice clients receive the effective, efficient, and holistic representation they deserve.

MJSB will deliver individualized legal services to meet its clients' needs and goals more effectively. MJSB's clients will never feel like merely a case or a client number. The lawyers of MJSB Employment Justice pride themselves on client communication and going the extra mile to ensure that their client's needs and expectations are exceeded. The firm is excited to enter the arena to achieve its singular goal  providing "Employment Justice" for each of its clients.

Visit http://mjsbjustice.com to learn more about the new firm and its mission, partners, practice areas, and office.

About MJSB Employment Justice:

MJSB Employment Justice fights for its clients' right to be heard because we know employees harmed in the workplace deserve better. MJSB's goal is to empower clients with legal representation from an experienced employment law partner and a firm-wide commitment to obtain justice for employees. Moreland, Johnson, Stadheim, and Boyle deliver individual attention and expert legal representation in the fight for employee justice and workers harmed in the workplace.

Media Contact:

Bree Johnson

Managing Partner, MJSB Employment Justice

[email protected]

612-677-2680

SOURCE MJSB Employment Justice
OREM, Utah, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SecurityMetrics has developed a new technology for ecommerce that catches digital skimming on shopping carts. As part of the SecurityMetrics Threat Intelligence Center, Shopping Cart Monitor protects vendors by preventing web skimming and credit card data theft on their ecommerce sites.

This new technology has the potential to save online retailers a significant amount of money and frustration since organizations can be held liable for damagesdamages that can cost retailers hundreds of millions of dollars every year.

Aaron Willis (SecurityMetrics Forensic Analyst, CISSP) explains, "Attackers are as innovative a breed of criminal as they come. Shopping Cart Monitor is important because it helps us stay in front of those attackers. It helps us keep your website from becoming the lowest hanging fruit on the tree. By running Monitor, you can stay ahead of attackers . . . if you're running Monitor, you are better protected."

Through data analytics on recent security breaches, SecurityMetrics found that not only are digital skimming attacks increasing significantly, they are also becoming much more sophisticated. Ecommerce skimming attacks are particularly vicious because, unlike traditional skimming, they do not leave any indication of compromise on the web server, making them extremely difficult to detect. Shopping Cart Monitor is a preventative solution that monitors websites for any suspicious activity and alerts you if there is an issue.

Shopping Cart Monitor offers:

Non-intrusive Scanning

Customizable Notifications

Regular Alerts and Support

Straightforward and Simple Reporting

Automated Inspection

Segmented Lists of Threat Indicators

User-Friendly Software

24/7 Technical Support

Webpage Integrity Monitoring (WIM) is the patented technology behind Shopping Cart Monitor that detects web skimming at the moment it is triggered and will alert a merchant if a web page has been compromised.

SecurityMetrics offers a second WIM service, Shopping Cart Inspect , which provides a one time forensic inspection of shopping carts to determine the origin of a breach so that it can be repaired. If Webpage Integrity Monitoring detects an attack, it is important to collect detailed forensic evidence to understand how an ecommerce website was breached. A SecurityMetrics forensic analyst will review your online shopping cart and discover evidence of a skimming attack so that you can take appropriate actions to protect your data.

To learn more about SecurityMetrics or Webpage Integrity Monitoring , please call 801.705.5656 or email [email protected] .

For press inquiries, email [email protected].

About SecurityMetrics

SecurityMetrics helps customers close data security and compliance gaps to avoid data breaches. They provide managed data security services and are certified to help customers achieve the highest data security and compliance standards.

As an Approved Scanning Vendor , Qualified Security Assessor , Certified Forensic Investigator, and Managed Security provider, SecurityMetrics guides organizations through data security testing and compliance mandates (PCI, HIPAA, GDPR, HITRUST). With over 20 years of forensic investigations, penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and compliance audits, SecurityMetrics has tested over 1 million systems for vulnerabilities. The privately held company is headquartered in Orem, Utah where it maintains a Security Operations Center (SOC) and 24/7 multilingual technical support.

SOURCE SecurityMetrics, Inc.
Meanwhile, KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) are invited to take the lead in participating in the Jasmine Flower Challenge and thus bring more people from their relative online communities to the grand cyber music event.

The event has also been launched on TikTok, the most popular short video platform in the world.

<Jasmine Flower> is a famous folk song in Jiangsu province. It has also been known to the world as a representative of Chinese folk culture thanks to the opera , a Puccini's work based on an ancient fable set in China. The song was also sung at the 2008 Beijing Olympics and various international occasions and has become one of the world's most classic folk songs.

Since it launched in September, the Jasmine Challenge has collected works from the network and prepared to pick out the Top1 piece. The activity has reached more than 1.52 million fans in many countries and regions in Europe, North America, Southeast Asia, Middle East and Africa. In addition, it has gained nearly 200,000 interactions with relative posts.

Participants joined in the singing in various forms, including acappella, violin, cello, piano and guitar.

The overseas social media platforms of Jiangsu Province rank among the tops in the "National Provincial-level Cultural and Tourism New Media International Communication Index List" released by the China Cultural Tourism Industry Index Laboratory. Also, in the "China BrandOS TOP100 Social Media influence of overseas brands", Jiangsu platforms were presented as a typical case of overseas social media marketing in China's cultural tourism industry.

Jiangsu makes voices into a communication medium and dedicates to break the limits of language and culture with the charm of music. The initiative offers the audience a chance to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of Jiangsu through the power of music and bring closer the province and tourists from all over the world.

The Jasmine Challenge is still on, don't hesitate to participate.

SOURCE Jiangsu Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism
STOCKHOLM, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- With reference to the press release dated 13 October 2021, Ocean Yield ASA ("Ocean Yield" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that the Company has agreed to invest in six VLCCs with 10-year bareboat charters to International Seaways Inc. ("International Seaways") with purchase obligations at the end of the charters. The total net purchase price is about USD 375 million, net of seller's credits. Five of the VLCCs were built in 2016 and one in 2015. Ocean Yield expects to take delivery of the vessels during Q4 2021.

International Seaways is one of the largest tanker companies worldwide providing energy transportation services for crude oil and petroleum products and owns and operates a fleet of 92 vessels. The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange with a market capitalization of about USD 920 million.

Company contact:

Eirik Eide (CFO), Tel +47 24 13 01 91

Investor Relations contact:

Marius Magelie (SVP Finance & Investor Relations), Tel +47 24 13 01 82

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/ocean-yield/r/investment-in-six-vlccs-with-long-term-charters,c3440376

SOURCE Ocean Yield
"Pacific Dental Services is a recognized leader in the dental industry, and we are proud to be the first dental support organization to offer our team members the opportunity to pursue their passion while removing the financial barrier that oftentimes keeps adult learners from reaching their educational goals," said PDS Founder and CEO Stephen E. Thorne IV. "We believe that by investing in the growth and development of our team members, we are investing in the future of our company."

"We are excited that Pacific Dental Services has made this industry-leading commitment to their team members," said Vivek Sharma, InStride CEO and Co-Founder. "Stephen Thorne and his leadership team have recognized that providing fully-funded strategic education opportunities results in both business and social impact for their company and the communities they serve."

The Pacific Dental Services College Advancement Program initially will be realized through InStride's partnership with world-class academic institution Arizona State University , ranked most innovative college by U.S. News & World Report for seven consecutive years. PDS will not only pay 100% tuition, but also cover book expenses and any associated mandatory fees for the duration of the degree program. Classes for the first semester begin January 10, 2022. Academic partners from within InStride's network will be added to the list of institutions where employee-learners can apply in the future.

In addition to the College Advancement Program, PDS helps employees advance their education through a traditional tuition reimbursement program up to $5,250 per year, over 1,000 free continuing education courses offered through PDS University, and a professional development program focused on specialized training and certificates.

To learn more about the Pacific Dental Services College Advancement Program, visit pacificdentalservices.com/education .

About Pacific Dental Services

Founded in 1994, Pacific Dental Services (PDS) is one of the country's leading dental support organizations, providing supported autonomy that enables dentists to concentrate on clinical excellence and the highest levels of cost-effective comprehensive patient care. PDS originated the Private Practice+ model to enable dentists to focus on their passion: serving patients. PDS also pioneered the concept of Modern Dentistry so that dentists are equipped to combine advances in the latest technology with the best operational practices and procedures, highly skilled support staff and a commitment to ongoing training and education. PDS continues to grow, with more than 800 supported dental offices across the United States. PDS has been on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest growing private companies in America 14 times. PDS supported dentists aim to be the provider of choice in all the markets they serve and to develop Patients for Life. For more information, visit us at pacificdentalservices.com

Facebook: @pacificdentalservices and @experiencePDS

Instagram: @pacific.dental and @experiencePDS

LinkedIn: @pacific-dental-services

Twitter: @pacificdental

YouTube: @pacificdentaltv

About InStride

InStride drives business and social impact through strategic workforce education. As the global leader in these programs, InStride works with corporate partners like Aramark, adidas, Carvana, Magna and more, providing their employees with access to top-tier academic institutions, strategic learning paths, and an innovative technology platform. Guided by its mission to change lives for working adults and cultivate the workforce of the future, InStride has been recognized with Fortune's Impact 20 and Inc.'s Best in Business awards. Visit instride.com or follow InStride on Twitter and LinkedIn for more information and up-to-date news.

SOURCE Pacific Dental Services
His playing days over, Roberts turned his passion toward a career in construction that recently saw him celebrate 20 years with Providence Homes. Upon graduating with a Bachelor of Science in building construction, Roberts was hired by Sean Junker at Taylor Woodrow Communities in Orange Park Country Club. Two years later, Junker left the company for Providence Homes (where Junker is now the President and COO). A few months later, Roberts joined him.

"I liked the idea of working for a smaller, locally owned company that was growing rapidly," said Roberts. "Sean and a few others I worked with came to Providence at around the same time. We all worked well together, and it made sense for me to join."

Roberts started at Providence as the Purchasing Manager and developed the procurement, estimating and design departments. He also spearheaded the implementation of the company's management software. After a few years and rapid company growth, the leadership Providence needed to develop and document the company processes and procedures to better serve customers and be more efficient, so Roberts took on the role of Director of Operational Processes and Procedures and stayed in this role for a little over a year. He then moved into his current role as Vice President of Operations in 2007.

"As we have grown over the past two decades, Charles, obviously, has been a huge part of that growth and success," said Junker. In 20 years, he has risen to every challenge and change in the market to keep Providence moving forward and building the best homes possible."

About Providence Homes | providencehomesinc.com

Headquartered in Jacksonville, Providence Homes is committed to providing the highest standards of residential construction in northeast Florida. As one of Jacksonville's only 100-percent ENERGY STAR Certified home builders, Providence Homes pledges to make a difference in the industry by building every home with the same detail and commitment to excellence they would with their own. Since becoming an ENERGY STAR partner, Providence Homes has built more than 1,600 ENERGY STAR homes helping Jacksonville families save over $5 million in energy bills.

SOURCE Providence Homes, Inc.

Related Links

https://www.providencehomesinc.com


This innovative audio presentation and dramatic production features the voices of numerous other people appearing in the book, from Corey Lewandowski, Steve Bannon, and Dr. Steven Hatfill to National Security Advisor Robert O'Brien, Anthony Fauci, and President Trump himself.

"This first of its kind audiobook allows the listener to truly feel like they are experiencing history," said Peter Navarro. "The unique addition of key voices makes this searing account of my time in the White House a must-hear for all Americans."

Peter Navarro is one of only three White House officials by the President's side from the 2016 campaign to the end of the President's first term. Always moving In Trump Time, as was his signature, Dr. Navarro's new book seeks to get to the bottom of what happened in a Wuhan bioweapons lab and hold Communist China accountable for its deadly role in the pandemic. This compelling audio presentation races along delivering new revelations in every chapter.

In Trump Time is available for preorder now on Amazon: https://bit.ly/InTrumpTimeAudio

Download the "Red Wedding" audio sample for In Trump Time at this link: https://rumble.com/vo7kjx-in-trump-time-audio-sample.html

For regular updates please visit: https://peternavarro.com/

Media Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Peter Navarro

Related Links

www.peternavarro.com


Pilot Company has been a supporter of the Endowment since 2019, contributing toward their goal of placing 100,000 veterans into high-quality jobs by 2024. In honor of Veterans Day, guests at participating owned and operated Pilot and Flying J Travel Centers can join the Endowment's mission by rounding up their purchase** from October 25 th  November 15 th , 2021 . Pilot Company will match the donations up to $100,000 and 100% of the proceeds from the round-up will go directly to the Endowment. This year's campaign hopes to raise $500,000, enough to support nearly 1,000 veterans in their transition into post-military careers.

"We are proud to be a veteran-founded company and we want to honor our servicemen and women whenever we have the opportunity," said Shameek Konar, CEO of Pilot Company. "Working with the Call of Duty Endowment is an amazing way to help veterans find a great career after they've graciously served our country. We have many veteran team members and guests and look forward to showing them our appreciation by welcoming them to our stores for a free meal on us."

On Nov. 11, Veterans authenticated with ID.me in the myRewards PlusTM app can save their exclusive offer* for a $10 free meal credit. Veterans can choose from a variety of food and beverages, including Pilot coffee, fountain drinks, non-alcoholic cooler beverages, hot and cold food items, name-brand snacks and purchases at over 680 participating QSR restaurants. The discount* is available to be redeemed at any of the company's owned and operated U.S. locations, including over 750 participating Pilot, Flying J and One9 Fuel Network travel centers. To easily find nearby locations and for more great deals, download the myRewards PlusTM app*.

Pilot Company is using ID.me, a group verification solution, to make it easy and simple for service members to quickly verify their eligibility in the myRewards Plus TM app. Once authenticated, service members will automatically receive a year-round 10% discount on food and beverages* when using myRewards Plus TM at checkout, in addition to receiving special offers throughout the year. For more information on the military discount, visit pilotflyingj.com/rewards.

To learn more about Pilot Company and its giving back initiatives, visit pilotcompany.com/about. More information on the Call of Duty Endowment is available at callofdutyendowment.org.

*Data rates may apply. Other terms and conditions apply.

**Certain purchases (including, without limitation, fuel and fuel additives and purchases made on fleet cards or direct bill programs) are not eligible for round-up contributions.

About Pilot Company

Pilot Company keeps North America's drivers moving as one of the leading suppliers of fuel and the largest operator of travel centers. Founded in 1958 and headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee, Pilot Company has grown its network to more than 800 retail and fueling locations and as the third largest tanker fleet in North America, supplies more than 12 billion gallons of fuel per year. Its energy division also supplies DEF, bio and renewables and provides hauling and disposal services. Pilot Company serves 1.5 million guests per day and provides over 30,000 direct fleet customers with bundled solutions for fuel, credit, factoring, services and rewards. Its Pilot Flying J Travel Center network includes over 750 locations in 44 states and six Canadian provinces with more than 680 restaurants, 74,000 truck parking spaces, 5,300 deluxe showers, 6,200 diesel lanes and offers truck maintenance and tire service through Southern Tire Mart at Pilot Flying J. The One9 Fuel Network connects a variety of fueling locations to provide smaller fleets and independent professional drivers with everyday value, convenience, credit and perks. More information on locations and rewards are available in the myRewards PlusTM app.

Pilot Company is currently ranked No. 10 on Forbes' list of America's Largest Private Companies. For additional information about Pilot Company, its 28,000 team members and commitment to giving back, visit www.pilotcompany.com.

About the Call of Duty Endowment

The Call of Duty Endowment's mission is to help Veterans find high-quality employment after their military service, and to raise awareness of the value they bring to the workplace. To accomplish its mission, the Endowment funds the best nonprofits that place vets into careers. The Endowment's funding model uses a performance-driven approach, identifying the organizations that deliver the highest standards of quality and cost-efficient veteran job placement. In 2020, the Endowment's grantee organizations' average cost to place a veteran into a job was $515, less than 1/9 the cost of U.S. government efforts. The Endowment is the world's largest and most effective nonprofit funder of veteran employment, and has funded the placement of more than 90,000 veterans into jobs since its founding in 2009. The goal is to fund 100,000 veteran job placements by 2024.

SOURCE Pilot Company

Related Links

www.pilotflyingj.com


MERIDEN, Conn., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In the third quarter of 2021, Planet Financial Group, LLC, parent of national mortgage lender and servicer Planet Home Lending, LLC and Planet Management Group, LLC, continued to report steady growth across its synergistic ecosystem of servicing, correspondent and private-client channels.

Planet Financial Group, LLC CEO and President Michael Dubeck

"The Planet Financial Group family of companies, which includes brands like Planet Home Lending and Planet Management Group, generated a strong third quarter this year, highlighting our ability to thrive in all market cycles," said Michael Dubeck, CEO and President of Planet Financial Group. "Even as the industry resets due to shrinking margins, Planet's momentum continued as we posted growth in our originations, servicing and asset management divisions."

Planet Home Lending's servicing portfolio ended Q3 at $45.0 billion, up 36% from $33.0 billion at year-end 2020. Total units rose to approximately 196,000, increasing 29% from approximately 152,000 at year-end 2020. The average loan size in the portfolio was $229,436 in Q3 2021 and $214,439 at year-end 2020. The company's third-party sub-servicing portfolio expanded significantly during the first nine months of 2021. It ended the third quarter with approximately 30,000 active assets valued at more than $8 billion, including about $1 billion of interim serviced loans.

Planet Home Lending's total origination volume reached $7.2 billion in Q3 2021, up 31% from $5.5 billion in Q3 2020.

Correspondent volume rose to a record $6 billion in Q3 2021, up 46% compared to Q3 2020's $4.1 billion. The volume increases were driven by the addition of new correspondent lending partners and rising volume from existing partners. Planet Home Lending is now the No. 6 government correspondent lender and No. 12 overall.

Total retail direct originations were $1.2 billion in Q3 2021, decreasing slightly from Q3 2020's $1.4 billion. Retention originations increased to $627 million in Q3 2021, up 7% from Q3 2020's $585 million. The company's Distributed Retail channel originated $584 million in home loans in Q3 2021, down somewhat from the $814 million the channel originated in Q3 2020.

Planet Home Lending's distributed retail recapture rate for refinances and purchases is 70.6% (TTM) through the third quarter of 2021, nearly four times the industry average of 18% reported by Black Knight, Inc. for Q4 2020.

About Planet Financial Group, LLC

Planet Financial Group, LLC, Meriden, Connecticut, is the parent of Planet Home Lending, LLC and Planet Management Group, LLC, which also does business under the name Planet Renovation Capital.

About Planet Home Lending, LLC

Planet Home Lending, LLC, Meriden, Connecticut, (NMLS #17022) is an approved originator and servicer for FHA, VA and USDA, as well as a Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae Seller/Servicer, a full Ginnie Mae Issuer and approved sub-servicer and a Standard & Poor's Global Ratings- and Fitch Ratings-rated special and prime residential servicer. Planet Home Lending, LLC has been assigned a corporate family rating by Moody's Investors Service viewable at www.moodys.com. Its correspondent division offers a full suite of government, agency and niche home loans. Planet Home Lending, LLC is also a special servicer managing diverse investor portfolios. Its customized servicing solutions maximize asset recovery and optimize performance through active management at the portfolio and loan levels. Planet Home Lending, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Lender. For more information about Planet Home Lending, LLC, please visit https://planethomelending.com. For more information about Planet Home Lending's Correspondent offerings, please visit https://phlcorrespondent.com.

About Planet Management Group, LLC

Planet Management Group, LLC, Melville, N.Y., maximizes the value of diverse investor assets through active management. For more information about Planet Management Group, please visit https://planetmanagementgroup.com.

Press Contacts:

Dona DeZube

Vice President, Communications

Planet Home Lending, LLC

[email protected]

(443) 263-2832

Charlyne H. McWilliams

Media Contact

for Planet Home Lending, LLC

[email protected]

(301) 933-5567

SOURCE Planet Home Lending

Related Links

http://www.planethomelending.com


OSLO, Norway, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Infosys (NYSE: INFY), a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting, today announced that it has been selected by Posten Norge as a strategic partner to digitally transform its IT Service Management function. Through this collaboration, Infosys will establish a best-in-class IT Service Desk and adapt Posten Norge's IT processes for new age software delivery methods.

The transformation will also involve implementation of ServiceNow, an industry leading, next generation IT Service Management platform. Infosys will accelerate the ServiceNow implementation and drive ongoing strategic value from the investments by leveraging Enterprise Service Management Cafe, an AI-powered ready to deploy solution, part of Infosys Cobalt.

Leveraging this solution, and the wealth of expertise Infosys has nurtured by working with global postal and logistics organizations for many years, Posten Norge will be equipped to innovate faster and respond to changing customer needs with agility. This collaboration will further enable Posten Norge and Infosys to co-create digital solutions for their customers.

Arne Erik Berntzen, Group CIO, Posten Norge said, "At Posten Norge, our aim is to make everyday life simpler and the world smaller by simplifying and increasing the value of trade and communication for people and enterprises in the Nordic region. With Infosys as a strategic partner, we feel confident we can capitalize on their capabilities and experiences to transform our IT processes. Throughout our interactions with Infosys, they have shown the capacity and desire to modernize the service delivery with the aim to build a future oriented IT service management capability, so we can create more value for our customers.''

Karmesh Vaswani, EVP & Global Head - Consumer, Retail and Logistics Industries, Infosys, said, "With our vast and varied experience supporting organizations in the postal and logistics industry navigate transformation, we look forward to collaborating with Posten Norge to adapt its business to the evolving market and its customer demands. The speed, agility, and efficiency that the suite of solutions powered by Infosys Cobalt will provide to Posten will be pivotal in delivering a best-in-class customer experience that will set it apart from the competition. As part of this collaboration, we also look forward to developing digital solutions for our customers by combining the complementary capabilities of the two organisations."

About Posten Norge

Posten Norge AS is a Nordic postal and logistics group that develops and delivers integrated solutions in postal services, communications and logistics, with the Nordic region as its home market. Posten Norge's vision is to make everyday life simpler and the world smaller. We have two brands, Posten and Bring. Posten concentrates on the consumer market in Norway, while Bring is aimed at the corporate market in the Nordic region.

About Infosys

Infosys is a global leader in next-generation digital services and consulting. We enable clients in over 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 (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.

For more information, please contact:

Dena Tahmasebi

+44 7970926571

[email protected]

SOURCE Infosys
NORTH FALMOUTH, Mass., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Quell Foundation proudly announces the 6th Annual Masquerade Ball, presented by FirstNet, Built with AT&T, and U.S. Bank raises over one million dollars. The funds will support a recently launched program to normalize a new culture for mental wellness in the first responder community by building resilient mindsets at work, home and into retirement through trusted and proven educational resources.

Fardowsa Hassan, Quell Scholarship recipient and recent graduate of the University of Minnesota Integrated Behavioral Health dual degree program. Chris Fields, Oklahoma City Fire Department, (ret.)

"Tonight, we will take a moment to look at the world through the lens of our respected dispatchers, firefighters, law enforcement officers & paramedics," said Kevin M. Lynch, CEO, and President of The Quell Foundation. "These women and men dedicate their lives to protecting and saving ours, but at what cost?"

"FirstNet is a proud sponsor of The Quell Foundation's efforts," remarked Dr. Anna Courie, Director, First Responder Health and Wellness, FirstNet Program at AT&T at the event. "We ask others to join us and The Quell Foundation as we lift the mask on first responder health and wellness. Today, the stigma stops here."

Minnesota's own Brian Murray, CEO of Ryan Companies, was honored for his work as a champion in his efforts to end the stigma associated with having a mental illness.

Other notable speakers included Chris Fields, Oklahoma City Fire Department, (ret.) who spoke to stigma in the first responder field, particularly in the fire department and Fardowsa Hassan, Quell Scholarship recipient and recent graduate of the University of Minnesota Integrated Behavioral Health dual degree program.

The Foundation will hold the 2022 Masquerade Ball in Newport, R.I., on October 29th at the Newport Marriott.

Sponsors for the event include U.S. Bank, Aetna, Zudy, Allina Health, the Culp Family Foundation, McKinsey & Co., MOD Worldwide, and Ryan Companies.

View the live stream of the event on The Foundation's YouTube Channel here .

About The Quell Foundation, Inc.

North Falmouth, MA  The Quell Foundation strives to reduce the number of suicides, overdoses, and the incarceration of people living with a mental health illness. We work to accomplish this by encouraging people to share their stories, increasing access to mental health services, providing a pipeline of future mental health care professionals, and training first responders to recognize mental health crisis warning signs amongst their own.

Visit https://www.thequellfoundation.org/ to learn more about the Masquerade Ball, the "Lift the Mask  Portraits of Life with Mental Illness" documentary, or for general information about the Foundation. The Quell Foundation, Inc. is a National 501(c)(3) not-for-profit foundation  Tax ID 47-5127883.

Media Contact:

Sarah Marshall

330-691-0218

[email protected]

SOURCE The Quell Foundation
Ramaco also announced that it has now executed an Asset Purchase Agreement with companies owned by Coronado Global Resources Inc. ("Coronado") to purchase certain assets from Coronado (the "Amonate Assets"), described below. The cash consideration for the acquisition is $30 million to be paid at closing, anticipated to occur by mid-November. The acquisition will be immediately accretive to the Company beginning in 2022.

Finally, the Company announced that its Board of Directors ("Board") authorized the initiation of a regular quarterly dividend to be paid beginning in the first quarter of 2022. The amount of the dividend and timing of both the record date and payment date will be set at the Company's Board meeting to be held in early December.

2022 Domestic Sales:

The Company has completed its most successful domestic coal sales efforts since inception. In 2022, it will sell 1.67 million tons to North American steel mills. Based upon the Company's projected 2022 production of roughly 3.1 million tons (inclusive of new production from the Amonate Assets described below), the Company will have roughly 1.5 million tons remaining to be sold in 2022 consisting of 800,000 tons of low and mid volatile coal and 700,000 tons of high volatile coal.

Amonate Assets and Berwind Mine:

The Amonate Assets being acquired from Coronado include a mine complex located in McDowell County, West Virginia and Tazewell County, Virginia. All assets are located adjacent and contiguous to the Company's existing Berwind Mine Complex (see the photo above). The acquisition primarily consists of approximately 50 million tons of low and mid volatile reserves, much of which will be mined from the Company's Berwind Mine. Also being purchased are several additional permitted mines, and a currently idled 1.3-million-ton per annum capacity coal preparation plant.

Mine development on the Amonate reserves will begin immediately. Initial production is expected by early in the second quarter of 2022, with total new incremental production for the entire year at approximately 200,000 tons. This will increase to approximately 700,000 tons at full production capacity by the end of 2023. The Company estimates that if operating today, the Amonate reserves would have cash mine costs in the $70 per ton range based on year-to-date metrics. Capital expenditures for the new incremental tons are expected to be approximately $2 million in 2021 and $10 million in 2022, primarily for purchase of underground equipment.

Refurbishing of the existing Amonate preparation facility will similarly begin immediately, with 50% capacity utilization anticipated to be achieved by June 2022. Complete nameplate capacity of roughly 1.3 million tons will be achieved by the end of 2022. Capital expenditure for the preparation plant upgrade is expected to be approximately $2 million in 2021, $6 million in 2022 and $2 million in 2023.

In addition, the Company's existing nearby Berwind Mine is expected to reach full production capacity of roughly 750,000 low volatile tons in mid-2022. By the end of 2023, together with the Amonate reserves, the combined mine complex will be capable of producing between 1.4-1.5 million low volatile tons, primarily from the Pocahontas #4 coal seam.

This will increase the Company's overall annual production capacity to approximately 3.7 million tons of metallurgical coal, with an allocation of roughly 60% high volatile and 40% of low volatile coals. The Company estimates that if mined today its overall production would have average cash mine costs in the upper $60 per ton range based on year-to-date metrics.

Management Comments:

Randall Atkins, Ramaco's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer remarked, "This has been a transformative month of activity for Ramaco and one that we hope will propel Ramaco to be viewed in a different dimension as a public company.

As one of the only pure play metallurgical coal producers, we have been able to capitalize on the current underlying strength in both domestic and international coal markets. Our recently concluded sales of coal for 2022 into the U.S. and Canadian steel markets have provided us with the strongest prices and realizations we have seen since we became public.

Through these sales, we have essentially just booked over $325 million of revenue for 2022 and $190 million in adjusted EBITDA by selling only approximately half of our expected production. To confess to a bit of humility, as a reminder in 2020 we booked roughly $19 million in adjusted EBITDA for the full year. The anticipated level of earnings from just these booked sales translates into a greater amount of adjusted EBITDA than we have cumulatively generated since Ramaco went public in 2017.

We hope to continue to capitalize on the ongoing strength in export markets, by retaining roughly half of 2022 production which will be sold to overseas customers at currently higher priced index-based pricing. Indeed, our most recent index-based export sale of high volatile coal was transacted at roughly $315 per short ton FOB mine. We currently still have over 100,000 tons of some of best coals to sell through the remainder of the year. Our current year to date mine costs are in the mid $60s per ton range.

We took a conservative approach to developing our business over the years. We have now been rewarded by being able to capitalize on opportunities to position Ramaco into a different class of public company at a point of exceptional underlying strength in the metallurgical coal markets. We will continue to grow. Indeed, we expect to ultimately double our current 2021 production to between 4-5 million tons over the next few years.

As a cornerstone of that production ramp, today we announced the acquisition of the Amonate Assets from our neighboring coal group Coronado. Amonate represents Ramaco's first major acquisition and is expected to add significant immediate accretion to both our adjusted EBITDA and net income beginning next year.

Since we began development on the Berwind mine complex in 2018, we envisioned the strategic logic of one day combining the Berwind and Amonate properties. This milestone now has arrived at a point when Ramaco is currently in its strongest liquidity position to purchase and develop these assets. It is also fortunate that it was timed so that the initiation of additional new production will come on stream into what we envision as a continuing strong multi-year domestic and international metallurgical coal market.

As an example of the acquisition's accretion, we will now avoid millions of dollars of annual trucking expense to our Knox Creek preparation facility just as we bring the Berwind mine to 750,000 tons of full production next year. Instead, we will simply belt the coal by conveyor to the adjacent Amonate prep plant less than half a mile away. Additionally, we will be able to now increase production at our overall Berwind mine complex to almost 1.5 million tons by 2023 by adding the 700,000 tons of new production from the adjacent Amonate reserves.

This new reconfiguration will also free up additional processing capacity at our 1.25-million-ton Knox Creek prep plant facility for both our own future mining development, as well as for third party purchased merchant coal opportunities. By the end of 2023, once these new reserves are in full operation, we expect to be at a 3.7+ million-ton annual production level.

Another long-term milestone is that we will begin a regular dividend in the first quarter of next year. Our Board determined we have proven an ability to generate both substantial long term and sustainable free cash flow. We hope to regularly increase this dividend in the years ahead as we continue to grow. We would note that we remain the only net cash positive company in the public coal space.

Lastly, as we look at today's industry landscape, it continues to exhibit significant constraints on both new supply creation and capital availability. Ramaco is one of the only public coal groups that possess both the financial and operational bandwidth to more than double our current production levels over the next few years, and importantly to do so in a low-cost manner. As important, we have now demonstrated an ability to both grow our business, as well as return capital to our shareholders at the same time.

We remain committed to being an opportunistic, low cost, low debt, and no legacy liability metallurgical coal producer. We operate in the segment of the coal industry with both continuing strong growth and cash generating potential, as well as one with a low greenhouse gas emitting profile. We will look forward to discussing more of our future opportunities in the months ahead."

Contact: [email protected] or 859-244-7455

SOURCE Ramaco Resources, Inc.
ST. PAUL, Minn., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- KnectIQ Inc., an innovator in cybersecurity technology, today announced Rick L. Waddell, Lieutenant General (Ret.), U.S. Army Reserve has officially joined the KnectIQ Advisory Board.

Rick Waddell's addition to the KnectIQ Advisory Board comes as the company continues to build and strengthen relationships relevant to targeted growth areas.

"I am pleased that Rick Waddell has agreed to join the KnectIQ Advisory Board. His impressive military career and expertise in the private energy sector will help guide important company initiatives," said CEO Ken Morris.

Waddell is joining the company's Advisory Board because he believes KnectIQ has "a capability that this country needs right now to provide essential cybersecurity," he said.

After serving 12 years on active duty, Waddell transitioned to the US Army Reserve at the end of the Cold War and began his business career. He worked for 17 years in Latin America, living 12 of those years in Sao Paulo, while working in the retail, energy, and mining sectors.

As a Reservist, Waddell deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, and commanded the 76th Division, which provided an All-Hazards Response Task Force for support to civil authorities. Waddell served in the Clinton Administration as a Director for European Security Affairs, and in the Trump Administration as the Deputy National Security Adviser. Most recently he served as the Assistant to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (ACJCS), and Senior Military Adviser to the Secretary of State.

In addition to his participation on the KnectIQ Advisory Board, Waddell is now a Venture Partner for New North Ventures and a Senior Fellow at the National Defense University.

Rick Waddell holds a BS from the United States Military Academy at West Point (Class of 1982), an MA from Oxford earned as a Rhodes Scholar, and a PhD from Columbia University. He is a published author, including "Wars Then and Now" (Fortis, 2011).



About KnectIQ

KnectIQ, Inc., formed in 2015, is a privately held, minority founded and led next generation cyber security technology innovator. The company helps customers ensure networks, data and devices are protected from unauthorized access, even if a breach is attempted with valid but compromised credentials. Using a uniquely unparalleled approach, their proprietary and patented Zero Trust based identity and access solution assures data is ultra-secure and enables safe collaboration across industries and organizations. Headquartered in St. Paul, MN, USA, the company also has an EU presence in Luxembourg. www.KnectIQ.com

CONTACT: Susie Moore

Phone: 651.414.6019

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE KnectIQ Inc.
Consign today and take advantage of unprecedented global demand & superior price realization



ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Ritchie Bros. is now accepting consignments for its next massive annual Orlando auction on February 21  26, 2022, which will host live bidding onsite for the first time in two years. Consign early and your items could be pre-listed on Ritchie Bros.' Marketplace-E solution, attracting more buyers for your equipment, with an opportunity to sell now and put cash in your hands before year-end. Any item not sold by January 15, 2022, will cascade directly into the February Orlando event.

"We are attracting record levels of demand today, resulting in strong pricing across almost every single asset categoryit's a great time to sell," said Kari Taylor, Chief Revenue Officer, Ritchie Bros. "If you contact us today, we can get your items pre-listed on our Marketplace-E solution with Make Offer and Buy Now prices. If your items don't sell on Marketplace-E, we will simply cascade them into our February Orlando auction. It's the best of both worlds!"

Over the past year Ritchie Bros. has seen a steady growth in demand, with 160 million visits to its online marketplaces. Contractors today need equipment and are being extremely aggressive in their bidding. According to Ritchie Bros.' latest Market Trends Report, truck tractor prices are up 46% year over year in the U.S. (for the three months ending Sep. 30, 2021), while medium earthmoving, vocational truck, and aerial equipment pricing is up 38%, 35%, and 34% respectively. Prices are strong and consignors with surplus equipment are being rewarded.

With items pre-listed on Marketplace-E, consignors will benefit from a team of multilingual Marketplace-E Specialists who leverage Ritchie Bros. analytics and demand data to help find the right buyer. If an item is not sold by January 15, it will shift into the company's biggest auction of the year.

"Orlando is our premier global auction, with equipment and buyers from across North America and around the world," added Jeff Gillmer, Vice President, Sales. "Last February we sold 12,000 items in Orlando for more than 1,000 companies, achieving US$191+ million in gross transaction value. We attracted 22,000 bidders from 80 different countries, all participating online and in real time."

Mr. Gillmer added, "We are also very excited to welcome customers back to Orlando for auction days in February. This destination event has always been a huge networking opportunity for our customers, and we are happy we can be together again soon."

To find out more about Ritchie Bros. upcoming Orlando auction, including details about pre-listing items on Marketplace-E, visit rbauction.com/Orlando2022. Companies and individuals looking to consign should contact their local sales representative or the Orlando site directly at +1.855-331-5789.

About Ritchie Bros.:

Established in 1958, Ritchie Bros. (NYSE and TSX: RBA) is a global asset management and disposition company, offering customers end-to-end solutions for buying and selling used heavy equipment, trucks and other assets. Operating in a number of sectors, including construction, transportation, agriculture, energy, oil and gas, mining, and forestry, the company's selling channels include: Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, the world's largest industrial auctioneer offers live auction events with online bidding; IronPlanet, an online marketplace with featured weekly auctions and providing the exclusive IronClad Assurance equipment condition certification; Marketplace-E, a controlled marketplace offering multiple price and timing options; Mascus, a leading European online equipment listing service; and Ritchie Bros. Private Treaty, offering privately negotiated sales. The Company's suite of solutions also includes Ritchie Bros. Asset Solutions and Rouse Services LLC, which together provides a complete end-to-end asset management, data-driven intelligence and performance benchmarking system. Ritchie Bros. also offers sector-specific solutions including GovPlanet, TruckPlanet, and Kruse Energy, plus equipment financing and leasing through Ritchie Bros. Financial Services. For more information about Ritchie Bros., visit RitchieBros.com.

Photos and video for embedding in media stories are available at rbauction.com/media.

SOURCE Ritchie Bros.
COLLEGE PARK, Md., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- As goal-setting meetings can help teams be more productive in the workplace, they also can help get the most out of personal activities, according to research co-authored by marketing professor Rebecca Ratner at the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business.

The study, "Navigating Shared Consumption Experiences: Clarity About a Partner's Interests Increases Enjoyment" in the Journal of Marketing Research, shows when people take a few minutes at the beginning of a social activity to make sure they're on the same page about what they hope to get out of the experience, they'll have a better time and be less likely to leave disappointed.

Ratner worked with Maryland Smith PhD graduate Yuechen Wu, now at Johns Hopkins University; Maryland Smith PhD graduate Nicole You Jeung Kim, now at Hong Kong Polytechnic University; and Rebecca Hamilton at Georgetown University.

The researchers tested what happens when two people share a leisure experience and how an experience improves for the participants when they have a quick goal-setting conversation first. People don't often have those conversations, Ratner says, and they enjoy the experience less because of it.

"There's uncertainty. When you are with another person, you don't really know what that person wants to get out of the experience," she says. "People become too worried about how they should act."

Ratner and her co-researchers conducted several experiments sending people into art galleries either alone or with a companion to study how well they were able to focus on the art and how much they enjoyed the experience.

When a participant didn't know whether their companion was truly interested in studying the art or more interested in just hanging out and casually observing the pieces, they themselves focused less on the art and socialized less.

"They end up sort of frozen," Ratner says.

A very brief discussion beforehand about what each person wanted to get out of the gallery visit made all the difference: "They each learned more about the art, got more out of the experience overall, and felt better able to socialize," she says.

But in the experiments, when given the option, participants choose not to have an expectation-setting meeting before activities. Ratner says people don't take opportunities to get this clarity because they seem to think the conversation won't help and that it will be uncomfortable  more like work with a goal-setting meeting. In reality, study participants reported the conversation was much less awkward than they feared.

Having that quick conversation benefits both people no matter how well they think they know each other, she says. The effects emerge both when the people are strangers and when they know each other. And having clarity helped even when the partners had different goals.

"It is better for it to be clear that you have different goals than to be not sure whether you have different goals," says Ratner. In some cases, you might find you are better off going alone when it's clear that you and your companion are not on the same page, she points out.

Ratner's advice to avoid disappointment and fully enjoy an outing with a companion: Have a quick chat to set expectations. If both parties are on the same page, no one gets disappointed.

"You may think it would be awkward to have a discussion about goals, but it's really not," says Ratner.

Keep the conversation quick and light-hearted, she suggests, to avoid it feeling like a laborious task.

Go to Maryland Smith Research for related content.

About the University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business

The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate, full-time and part-time MBA, executive MBA, online MBA, specialty masters, PhD and executive education programs, as well as outreach services to the corporate community. The school offers its degree, custom and certification programs in learning locations in North America and Asia.

Contact: Greg Muraski at [email protected]

SOURCE University of Maryland's Robert H. Smith School of Business

Related Links

http://www.rhsmith.umd.edu


NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Amplify Energy Corp. ("Amplify" or the "Company") (NYSE: AMPY). Such investors are advised to contact Robert S. Willoughby at [email protected] or 888-476-6529, ext. 7980.

The investigation concerns whether Amplify and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.

[Click here for information about joining the class action]

On October 4, 2021, Amplify issued a press release announcing a large oil spill in Southern California. Specifically, the press release stated that "on Saturday, October 2, 2021, Beta Offshore (a subsidiary of Amplify Energy) first observed and notified the US Coast Guard of an oil sheen approximately four (4) miles off the coast in Southern California and initiated its Oil Spill Prevention and Response Plan. The Company has sent a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) to investigate and attempt to confirm source of the release. As a precautionary measure, all of the Company's production and pipeline operations at the Beta Field have been shut down." On this news, Amplify's stock price fell sharply during intraday trading on October 4, 2021.

Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com.

CONTACT:

Robert S. Willoughby

Pomerantz LLP

[email protected]

888-476-6529 ext. 7980

SOURCE Pomerantz LLP

Related Links

www.pomerantzlaw.com


DALLAS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) (the "Company") Gary Kelly, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award through 3BL Media's Responsible CEO of the Year Awards. The Responsible CEO Awards recognize corporate executives who demonstrate responsible leadership in executing on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments.

"Southwest Airlines has long believed in 'doing well by doing good,' and we're focused on being a responsible global citizen. Gary's dedication to doing the right thing for our People, through our Performance, and in service to the Planet has driven this commitment," Bob Jordan, Executive Vice President and Incoming Chief Executive Officer. "For more than three decades, Gary has led with Heart, and it's terrific to see him recognized for his Leadership in aligning Southwest to advance its citizenship initiatives to deliver on ESG commitments."

Selected by past winners, the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes Gary Kelly's vision, pioneering spirit, and ability to act as a force for good in the business worldall of which led to significant achievement in the corporate social responsibility (CSR) field over the course of his career. Under Gary's Leadership, Southwest has aligned to execute citizenship initiatives including:

Established and evolved its diversity, equity, and inclusion goals

Announced its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050

Enhanced how the Company reports on its CSR efforts through the Southwest Airlines One Report

Avoided involuntary furloughs, layoffs, or pay cuts for Employees, including through the COVID-19 pandemic.

For more than 50 years, Southwest has connected People to what's important in their lives by providing friendly, reliable, and low-cost air travel. This Purpose is at the core of its citizenship efforts, and it fuels a desire to make the world a better place. For more information, visit the Company's annual CSR report, the Southwest Airlines One Report.

ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.

In its 51st year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines Co. continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by nearly 54,000 Employees to a Customer base that topped 130 million Passengers in 2019. Southwest has a robust network of point-to-point service with a strong presence across top leisure and business markets. In peak travel seasons during 2019, Southwest operated more than 4,000 weekday departures among a network of 101 destinations in the United States and 10 additional countries. In 2020, the carrier added service to Hilo, Hawaii; Cozumel, Mexico; Miami; Palm Springs, Calif.; Steamboat Springs; and Montrose (Telluride), Colo. Thus far in 2021, Southwest has initiated service to Chicago (O'Hare) and Sarasota/Bradenton both on Feb. 14; Savannah/Hilton Head and Colorado Springs both on March 11; Houston (Bush) and Santa Barbara, Calif. both on April 12; Fresno, Calif. on April 25; Destin/Fort Walton Beach on May 6; Myrtle Beach, S.C. on May 23; Bozeman, Mont. on May 27; Jackson, Miss. on June 6; and Eugene, Ore. on Aug. 29. The carrier will begin service to Bellingham, Wash. on Nov. 7; and Syracuse on Nov. 14.

The carrier issued its Southwest Promise in May 2020 to highlight new and round-the-clock efforts to support its Customers and Employees well-being and comfort. Among the changes are enhanced cleaning efforts at airports and onboard aircraft, along with a federal mandate requiring every person to wear a mask at all times throughout each flight. Additional details about the Southwest Promise are available at Southwest.com/Promise.

Southwest coined Transfarency to describe its purposed philosophy of treating Customers honestly and fairly, and low fares actually staying low. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some carriers offer free checked bags on select routes or in qualified circumstances). Southwest does not charge change fees, though fare differences might apply.

Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. Learn more about how the carrier gives back to communities across the world by visiting Southwest.com/citizenship.

Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.

SOURCE Southwest Airlines Co.

Related Links

http://www.southwest.com


"An informed person can make smart choices when it comes to drug use."

Maher-Forney has been active in drug prevention for more than 30 years. She and her daughter Julie, who now serves as Director of Community Affairs at the Nashville, Tennessee, Church of Scientology , have signed up thousands of children on a pledge to live drug-free. In 2008, both mother and daughter received the Presidential Service Award for their volunteer service to the community.

The need for concerted action is clear. According to the proclamation:

St. Louis metro area suffered 55 percent of all Missouri overdose deaths in 2019 and 2020.

metro area suffered 55 percent of all overdose deaths in 2019 and 2020. Drug overdose deaths in Missouri involving opioids increased 24 percent from 2019 to 2020.

increased 24 percent from 2019 to 2020. Stimulant-related deaths rose 26 percent.

The proclamation begins by stating: "An informed person can make smart choices when it comes to drug use."

It is particularly important to reach youth before they begin to experiment with drugs. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that the majority of those with substance abuse problems begin to experiment with drugs by the time they are 18. What's more, drug education is effective. The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime states: "For every dollar spent on prevention, at least ten can be saved in future health, social and crime costs.

Scientology Churches provide drug education specialist training, sponsor chapters of Foundation for a Drug-Free World, and work with local educators, police, churches and nonprofits to reach youth on this vital subject.

Foundation for a Drug-Free World is a volunteer-based organization. There are hundreds of groups internationally, many of them hosted by Churches of Scientology. The Church is the main sponsor of the program enabling the Foundation to provide this secular program and materials free of cost to drug educators worldwide.

For more information, visit the Scientology Newsroom or watch videos on the work of drug prevention activists on Voices for Humanity on the Scientology Network.

SOURCE Church of Scientology International

Related Links

http://www.scientology.org


RIVERSIDE, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Stronghold Engineering, Inc. , a construction and design firm based in Riverside, California, is celebrating its 30-year anniversary this month. Founded in 1991 by Beverly and Scott Bailey, the company began as Stronghold Electric, before incorporating as Stronghold Engineering in 1999. To date, the company has completed several civil, infrastructure, and electrical projects exceeding $2.5 billion in construction costs.

Stronghold Engineering began as an electrical company run by husband-and-wife pair Beverly and Scott Bailey. The two respectively took on the role of CEO and COO as they led Stronghold from its formative early years to being one of the most successful and versatile construction and design companies.

Stronghold Engineering has grown over the last three decades to provide full-service design and construction support services, including design-build, engineering-procurement-construction (EPC), electrical construction, new construction, and modernization. The company is one of the nation's most successful graduates of the U.S. Small Business Administration's 8(a) program for small, disadvantaged businesses, and earned a Top Workplaces Distinction every year from 2015 to 2019.

Some of Stronghold Engineering, Inc.'s most notable projects include the $25 million seismic retrofit and historic renovation of the GSA Frank Hagel Federal Building, the $130 million contract SEI for the Ironwood State Prison, and the innovative and environmentally-conscious West Riverside Landfill Project.

Looking ahead, Beverly Bailey is strategizing what the next 30 years of Stronghold Engineering look like for the company and its employees. "We have loyal employees that have been with us 10, 20, 25 years that are still as dedicated as ever to our team, so we will continue to support them and their careers. But we're also building our bench, our next generation, so we're always looking for creative ways to engage our team and just to put money back into the company to ensure that we will be around for another 30 plus years."

About Stronghold Engineering, Inc.

Stronghold Engineering, Inc. is a construction and design firm . The company specializes in full-service construction and design support services, and has designed and constructed ground up facilities, as well as completed technically challenging repair and renovations for historical and non-historical facilities, and significant seismic upgrades, as well as large civil, infrastructure, and electrical projects. The tenets that guide Stronghold Engineering's work are quality, safety, teamwork, integrity, and commitment. The company headquarters, built and designed by Stronghold Engineering in 2020, is located in Riverside, California.

SOURCE Stronghold Engineering, Inc.
VANCOUVER, BC, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Surge Battery Metals Inc. (the "Company" or "Surge") (TSXV: NILI) (OTCQB: NILIF) (FRA: DJ5C) is pleased to announce that it has entered into a Corporate Advisory and Investment Banking Agreement with Network 1 Financial Securities, Inc. ("Network 1") effective October 21, 2021. Network 1 is an experienced and independent, full-service securities firm headquartered out of Red Bank, New Jersey. Network 1 provides capital raising, market making, M&A, and corporate advisory services, in addition to traditional retail and institutional brokerage services to its clients in North America, Asia, Australia and the UK.

Mr. Greg Reimer, Surge President & CEO, states, "Having a well-respected and trusted corporate advisory group like Network 1 work so closely with our management team is sure to unlock additional long term shareholder value for our company. Network 1 has successfully helped many similar sized companies in the past and comes with an excellent industry reputation. Surge has always had its sights set on a senior US stock exchange listing, and Network 1 is engaged to advise us on the right way to accomplish this task."

Network 1 has been retained by Surge to act as its corporate advisor and investment banker with respect to the development of the Company's US corporate financing and securities strategy including advising on the structure of future US private placements and to assist the Company with an overall up-listing strategy to a senior North American stock exchange.

Mr. Edward Cabrera, Network 1's Managing Director adds, "We have been following Surge and its experienced management team for quite some time. The company is a great example of a well run organization with valuable mineral assets trying to address a rapidly growing market for metals associated with the green energy industry/ electric vehicle market. We believe that with the right guidance and support, Surge could be a significant player in this market and will continue to develop its valuable mineral assets in the near future."

Working on Wall Street for 35 years with investment banks such as Merrill Lynch, PaineWebber/UBS and Raymond James & Associates, Mr. Cabrera has held many senior positions including investment banker, equity analyst, market strategist and portfolio manager. Since 2003, he has focused on providing advisory services, merger and acquisition structuring and capital market access for middle market companies. Prior to this, he worked at Merrill Lynch for 10 years as Managing Director and Head of Latin America where he built the top-ranked team for the region, according to Greenwich Associates Survey and Latin Finance magazine polls. He was selected to the 2000 Millennium edition of Who's Who In Finance and has been named to the All-America team by Institutional Investor for the quality of his work. He has an extensive technical and educational background. He received his Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida in Engineering where he graduated with honors. After undergraduate, he was hired by General Electric, where he worked in the manufacturing operation. In 1985, he left GE and attended Harvard Business School where he graduated with an MBA in 1987. Edward has FINRA licenses 7, 24, 63, 66, 79, 86 and 87.

About Network 1 Financial Securities, Inc.

Founded in 1983, Network 1 Financial Securities, Inc. is a full-service broker/dealer. Its clients include high net worth individuals from many countries, institutional investors, managed pension funds and hedge funds. Network 1 is committed to servicing each client on a personal level to help meet their individual financial goals. We believe that this commitment strengthens client relationships and, in turn, creates long-term associations.

Network 1's investment banking team has more than 100 years of combined experience, and provides services including Private Placements, PIPEs, Initial and Secondary Public Offerings, Bridge Financing, Merger and Acquisition assistance, market making and the ability to assist with up-listing to national exchanges. Network 1 is committed to being a long-term, trusted advisors for its clients.

Network 1 is a member of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA"), and the Securities Investor Protection Corporation ("SIPC").

About Surge Battery Metals Inc. surgebatterymetals.com

The Company is a Canadian-based mineral exploration company active in the exploration for nickel-iron alloy and Copper in British Columbia and lithium in Nevada whose primary listing is on the TSX Venture Exchange. The Company's maintains a focus on exploration for high value battery metals required for the electric vehicle (EV) market.

Nevada Lithium Claims

The Company owns a 100% interest in 38 mineral claims located in Nevada. The Northern Nevada Lithium Project is located in the Granite Range about 34 line- km southeast of Jackpot, Nevada, about 73 line-km north-northeast of Wells, Nevada. The target is a Thacker Pass or Clayton Valley type lithium clay deposit in volcanic tuff and tuffaceous sediments of the Jarbidge Rhyolite package. The project area was first identified in public domain stream sediment geochemical data with follow up sediment sampling and geologic reconnaissance.

As announced on Sept 30, 2021, the Company is also in the process of earning an undivided 80% interest in the San Emidio Desert Lithium Project, located 60 miles North East of Reno, Nevada from Lithium Corporation (OTCQB: LTUM). The San Emidio Desert Lithium Project consists of 35 mineral claims comprising a total of 2800 acres and is located in the San Emidio Desert.

Caledonia Project, Vancouver Island, BC

The Company has entered into a Property Option Agreement to acquire a 100% interest in 7 mineral claims known as the Caledonia, Cascade and Bluebell, subject to a NSR between 1-2%. Located in the Nanaimo Mining District of northern Vancouver Island. The claims are 7 km north-west of BHP's past producing Island Copper mine. During its prime operating period the Island Copper mine was Canada's third-largest copper producer. The Caledonia, Cascade and Bluebell claims area lies within a 50-kilometer-long copper belt northwest of the Island Copper mine.

British Columbia Nickel Project

Hard Nickel 4 and Nickel 100 Claims

The Company has entered into an Option Agreement with Nickel Rock Resources to acquire an 80% interest in 6 mineral claims in the Mount Sidney Williams area (Hard Nickel 4) covering 1863 hectares immediately south of and adjacent to the Decar Project and the Mitchell Range area (Nickel 100) covering 8659 hectares, located in Northern British Columbia. Three of the claims are subject to 2% NSR, including the Hard Nickel 4 claim and the two southernmost claims of the Nickel 100 claims. The acquisition is subject to final Exchange approval.

On Behalf of the Board of Directors

"Greg Reimer"

Greg Reimer, President & CEO

604-428-5690

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release may contain forwardlooking statements which include, but are not limited to, comments that involve future events and conditions, which are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Except for statements of historical facts, comments that address resource potential, upcoming work programs, geological interpretations, receipt and security of mineral property titles, availability of funds, and others are forwardlooking. Forwardlooking statements are not guaranteeing future performance and actual results may vary materially from those statements. General business conditions are factors that could cause actual results to vary materially from forwardlooking statements.

Surge Battery Metals Inc.

1220  789 West Pender Street

Vancouver, BC, Canada V6C 1H2

604- 428-5690

www.surgebatterymetals.com

[email protected]

SOURCE Surge Battery Metals Inc.
Most fusion efforts around the world are focused on combining hydrogen isotopes deuterium-tritium (D-T) to use as fuel; the donut-shaped tokamak machines commonly used in fusion concepts are limited to D-T fuel.

In contrast, TAE's compact linear design uses an advanced beam-driven field-reversed configuration (FRC) that can accommodate all available fusion fuel cycles, including D-T and deuterium-helium-3 (D-He-3), a benefit that uniquely enables the company to license its technology on the way to its ultimate goal of connecting the first p-B11 fusion power plant to the grid by the end of this decade.

TAE is developing commercial fusion power plants using p-B11 because it is the most economical and environmentally friendly fuel cycle for fusion. P-B11 eliminates the need for breeding tritium, thus offering cleaner, safer operations while maximizing the durability and lifetime of the fusion plant. The boron in p-B11 is ubiquitous in nature, found in vast deposits in the earth's crust and sea water, and is used in detergents and other industrial commodities. The partnership between NIFS and TAE represents the first public-private fusion research using this advanced fuel.

NIFS is an inter-university research institute located in Toki City and works with preeminent organizations both in Japan and globally. TAE's scientists will collaborate with a team run by Professor Zensho Yoshida, Director General of NIFS.

The three-year joint research project, which began in September, calls for the technical teams to install sensors inside the NIFS stellarator to detect benign helium nuclei, also known as alpha particles, which are produced by p-B11 fusion reactions to monitor the internal effects of the fuel on the containment walls in order to produce the best plasma confinement and strongest, most resilient machinery for fusion power plants.

"Our partnership with NIFS is a significant opportunity to offer proof of concept for TAE's preferred fuel cycle and accelerate commercialization of p-B11 fusion, which represents the cleanest, most elegant and abundant energy source on earth," said Michl Binderbauer, CEO of TAE Technologies. "We expect this research to yield new insights that will help us further optimize our fusion platform for global adoption and long-term sustainability."

"The collaborative relations between the US and Japan started with vigor when President Carter and Prime Minister Fukuda signed a treaty on US-Japan fusion collaboration in 1978," said Toshiki Tajima, Chief Science Officer of TAE Technologies. "In particular, scientists from NIFS such as Prof. Momota visited the US to explore aneutronic fusion research in 1980s. I believe our experimental collaboration with NIFS will quickly culminate in the world's first p-B11 aneutronic fusion demonstration. This joint effort shows that the union of two complementary parties can yield an outcome greater than the sum of its parts  similar to the transformative properties of fusion energy itself."

"The development and commercialization of grid-scale fusion energy is a priority in the face of climate change," said Prof. Masaki Osakabe, Executive Director of the NIFS Large Helical Device Project. "We are excited to provide this opportunity to research the effects of advanced fuels for fusion with a leader in p-B11, and we look forward to sharing the results."

In April, TAE announced $280M in additional funding based on achieving a fusion technology milestone that gives the company a high degree of confidence that its unique compact configuration can scale to cost-competitive utility-scale fusion power.

In September, TAE launched a Power Management division, which is currently commercializing the proprietary energy storage technology that has been deployed in the company's fusion platform since 2017 for first-of-its-kind advances including residential and commercial energy storage; electric vehicle performance, range, and charging; and overall improvements to grid infrastructure to create a connected clean energy ecosystem.

ABOUT TAE TECHNOLOGIES

TAE Technologies (pronounced T-A-E) was founded in 1998 to develop commercial fusion power with the cleanest environmental profile, and represents the fastest, most practical, and economically competitive solution to bring abundant energy to the grid. With over 900 issued patents, more than $880 million in private capital, six generations of National Laboratory-scale devices, and an experienced team of over 250 employees, TAE is now on the cusp of delivering this transformational energy source capable of sustaining the planet for centuries. The company's revolutionary technologies have produced a robust portfolio of commercial innovations in other large adjacent markets such as power management, energy storage, transmission, electric mobility, life sciences, and more. TAE is based in California and maintains international offices in the UK and Switzerland. Multidisciplinary and mission-driven by nature, TAE is leveraging proprietary science and engineering to create a bright future for us all.

SOURCE TAE Technologies
DENVER, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Vertafore announced today The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (The Hanover), a leading carrier of property and casualty insurance for businesses and individuals in the United States, is the newest carrier to join its Commercial Submissions platform.

The relationship with The Hanover gives independent agents more real-time choices to secure high-quality coverage to meet the needs of their clients. The Hanover plans to integrate their workers' compensation, business owners' policies (BOP) and general liability line into Vertafore's Commercial Submissions.

As the first InsurTech solution that truly connects the end-insured, agents, and carriers, Commercial Submissions enables simplified, real-time quoting on commercial policies of all sizes and business types. The platform integrates seamlessly within Vertafore's agency management systems to solve one of the largest pain points in the insurance industry: the arduous and time-consuming process of quoting and securing commercial insurance coverage. With the addition of The Hanover, eight industry-leading carriers and MGAs have joined the platform.

"The Hanover has led the way when it comes to leveraging InsurTech solutions that make life easier for their agents and clients. We are confident that this partnership will help The Hanover improve profitability and efficiency and free up their bandwidth to win more business and continue to offer the best service for their agents and clients," said James Thom, chief product officer at Vertafore.

The Hanover investing in InsurTech solutions to enable growth

Named one of America's best employers by Forbes six years in a row, The Hanover has been investing in best-in-class solutions, including Vertafore's Commercial Submissions. The use of technological solutions that optimize the workflow for filing commercial lines quotes has allowed the company to streamline processes and improve the user experience for its agents.

Through live collaboration capabilities and real-time data exchanges, Commercial Submissions makes the submissions process fast, easy, and collaborative, allowing agents to quote commercial policies in minutes. The solution pre-fills up to 80% of application fields from the agency's management system. It also enables agents to invite clients to review, change and/or approve quotes in real time, saving time on manual tasks and allowing agents to focus on winning business and servicing clients.

About Vertafore

As North America's InsurTech leader for more than 50 years, Vertafore is modernizing and simplifying insurance distribution so that our customers can focus on what matters most: people. Vertafore's solutions provide end-to-end connectivity, improve the client and agent experience, unlock the power of data, and streamline essential workflows to drive efficiency, productivity, and profitability for independent agencies and carriers. For more information about Vertafore, visit www.vertafore.com.

2021 Vertafore and the Vertafore logo are registered trademarks of Vertafore. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

About The Hanover Insurance Group

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. is the holding company for several property and casualty insurance companies, which together constitute one of the largest insurance businesses in the United States. The company provides exceptional insurance solutions through a select group of independent agents and brokers. Together with its agent partners, The Hanover offers standard and specialized insurance protection for small and mid-sized businesses, as well as for homes, automobiles, and other personal items. For more information, please visit hanover.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Vertafore :

Liz Reilly

Next PR

[email protected]

SOURCE Vertafore
BALTIMORE, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Transamerica today announced key findings from research centered on how retirement plan sponsors and participants have fared during the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the requirement to move from in-person to virtual education has impacted engagement.

Transamerica found that remote and virtual meetings actually resulted in reaching more employees because of greater flexibility, accessibility, and convenience. Transamerica's virtual education allows an employee to select a date and time that works for their scheduleincluding nights and weekends. An employee can meet with a retirement planning consultant by using their phone or computer, accommodating an instant face-to-face interaction. If the call is via computer, participants can benefit from screen-sharing for a more in-depth account review.

"Traditionally, Transamerica's retirement education program had a mixture of in-person and virtual meetings," said Phil Eckman, Chief Operating Officer of Workplace Solutions at Transamerica. "With the pandemic, it was necessary to move swiftly to an entirely virtual model. What we found is that virtual education removes most logistical considerations, making it more convenient and flexible for sponsors and employees. Plan sponsors lauded the convenience of scheduling meetings, as Transamerica offered virtual meeting opportunities over a fifteen-day period, and the employers didn't need to corral employees to provide education. Their employees also expressed appreciation for the convenience to speak with a retirement planning consultant virtually on their schedule."

Transamerica's findings show that in 2020, there was a 25% year-over-year increase in employee education meetings. The research also found that the increase in virtual education seemed to have a direct correlation to other improved metrics:

Participants who met with a Transamerica retirement plan consultant had an average contribution rate that was 32% higher than those that did not.

There was a 38% higher participation rate for retirement plans whose employees met with a Transamerica retirement plan consultant versus those that did not.

Feedback from participants about their meetings with retirement plan consultants was positive:

Ninety-eight percent (98%) said the sessions were "beneficial," with most saying the sessions were "very beneficial" (88%).

Ninety-eight percent (98%) of participants were satisfied with their interaction with the retirement plan consultant.

Ninety-one percent (91%) were pleased with the ease of scheduling and accessibility to meetings with retirement plan consultants.

"With more companies shifting to a permanent work-from-home or hybrid structure, these statistics show that virtual meetings with retirement plan consultants will be even more important and an effective means to give people the information they need to prepare for retirement," said Eckman. "We cannot predict how the world will evolve post-pandemic. What we do know is that people want financial education, and Transamerica is committed to meeting them wherever they are to have those discussions."

To learn more about Transamerica, contact your financial consultant or visit www.transamerica.com.

About Transamerica

With a history that dates back more than 100 years, Transamerica is recognized as a leading provider of life insurance, retirement, and investment solutions, serving millions of customers throughout the United States. Recognizing the necessity of health and wellness during peak working life, Transamerica's dedicated professionals work to help people take the steps necessary to live better today so they can worry less about tomorrow. Transamerica serves nearly every customer segment, providing a broad range of quality life insurance and investment products, individual and group pension plans, as well as asset management services. In 2020, Transamerica fulfilled its promises to customers, paying more than $49 billion in insurance, retirement, and annuity claims and benefits, including return of annuity premiums paid by the customer. Transamerica is headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, with other major operations in Cedar Rapids, Iowa and Denver, Colorado. Transamerica is part of the Aegon group of companies. Based in the Netherlands, Aegon is one of the world's largest providers of life insurance, pension solutions and asset management products, operating in more than 20 markets worldwide. For the full year of 2020, Aegon managed over $1.1 trillion in revenue generating investments. For more information, visit www.transamerica.com.

Securities offered through Transamerica Investors Securities Corporation (TISC), member FINRA, 440 Mamaroneck Avenue, Harrison, NY 10528. Investment advisory services are offered through Transamerica Retirement Advisors, LLC (TRA), registered investment advisor. All Transamerica companies identified are affiliated.

Media inquiries:

Email: [email protected]

Hank Williams

(319) 355-7789

Julie Quinlan

(303) 383-5923

SOURCE Transamerica

Related Links

http://www.transamerica.com


BERWYN, Pa., Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Triumph Group [NYSE:TGI] announced today that its Triumph Interiors operating company has been awarded a long term contract with Boeing for manufacturing of the air distribution system composite ducting and composite cockpit assemblies on the 777X. Additionally, Triumph Interiors will provide the thermal-acoustic primary insulation systems for the 737 MAX, 767 Freighter, and 777, as well as the KC-46 multi-role tanker and P-8 Poseidon defense platforms.

This win represents a substantial portion of Triumph's Interiors business sales over the long term and materially increases Triumph's backlog. Triumph Interiors has over a 30-year history of providing Boeing with exceptional products and services that has earned them consistent high supplier ratings. This award follows Triumph's multi-year restructuring of its Interiors business and reflects its commitment to secure long-term contracts in partnership with leading OEMs.

"This contract award across both Boeing commercial and defense aircraft demonstrates our ability to consistently deliver superior products with the quality, reliability and value our customers demand," said Dan Crowley, Chairman, President and CEO of Triumph Group. "Our company's dedication to innovation and lean transformation enables us to provide superior value to Boeing on new and ramping platforms."

"Securing this significant order will enable Triumph Interiors to advance strategic affordability and efficiency initiatives and provides a solid foundation against which we can pursue other new business opportunities," said Ian Reason, President of Triumph Interiors.

Triumph Interiors is a market leader in integrated design and manufacturing of thermo-acoustic insulation, environmental control system ducting, reinforced thermoplastic, and other aircraft interior and composite components for major aerospace OEMs, with facilities located around the globe.

Triumph Group, Inc., headquartered in Berwyn, Pennsylvania, designs, engineers, manufactures, repairs, and overhauls a broad portfolio of aerospace and defense systems, components, and structures. The company serves the global aviation industry, including original equipment manufacturers and the full spectrum of military and commercial aircraft operators.

More information about Triumph can be found on the company's website at www.triumphgroup.com.

SOURCE Triumph Group

Related Links

www.triumphgroup.com


SAN DIEGO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Two Ford Mobility companies today announced a new five-year exclusive agreement with the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego). Spin, a micromobility provider, and TransLoc, a transportation software solutions company, are combining efforts to deliver and integrate sustainable transportation modes, improving how the university's 75,000 students, faculty and staff move around campus.

University of California San Diego Launches Comprehensive Mobility Services Powered by Ford-owned Spin and TransLoc UC San Diego students next to Spin Hub, where a live map of bus locations (powered by TransLoc technology) are displayed.

"The university has a long-standing commitment to reduce our carbon footprint while also supporting healthy, efficient transit opportunities for a large and diverse campus population," said UC San Diego Vice Chancellor for Resource Management and Planning Gary Matthews. "With the combined services of Spin and TransLoc, the university reduces its carbon emissions, leverages our investment in transportation and makes the final leg of commutes easier for faculty, students and staff. We're excited to watch this vision of unified transit expand and evolve in the coming years."

Spin's relationship with UC San Diego started in 2017 with 50 shared pedal-bikes on campus. This new agreement brings 600 shared e-bikes and e-scooters to the campus, enhanced through a network of Spin Hub charging stations that include digital screens showing riders real-time campus transit data to help them better plan their journey. During the first month of this fall quarter alone, the campus community took more than 63,000 trips resulting in more than 53,000 miles.

"At Spin, our mission is to use micromobility to create a 15-minute city  where anyone can get to any important location within 15 minutes." said Ben Bear, Spin CEO. "College campuses such as UC San Diego truly operate like small cities, and working with TransLoc will help us advance our goal of easing the transportation journey."

TransLoc's transit orchestration software will support UC San Diego's existing transit system to more efficiently dispatch and track more than 40 buses along fixed routes on campus to provide riders with real-time data on bus status, location and capacity. Next year, TransLoc software also will power UC San Diego's small buses and low-speed electric passenger vehicles, to provide door-to-door service on campus for students, faculty and staff with mobility challenges and on-demand services to the full campus community during non-peak evening hours when operating full-size buses would be unsustainable.

"The future of transportation isn't about one-mode journeys; it's about offering affordable, accessible and easy-to-use options that complement each other and improve the rider experience," said Ford Vice President of Mobility Businesses and TransLoc CEO Brett Wheatley. "This is only the beginning of how Ford, Spin and TransLoc can help improve and future-proof mobility systems across the U.S. We're excited to support UC San Diego's holistic mobility needs today and in the future."

While this collaboration begins with UC San Diego, Spin and TransLoc see significant opportunities to expand this mobility suite to corporate campuses, municipalities, airports and more.

About UC San Diego

At the University of California San Diego, we embrace an inclusive culture of exploration and experimentation. Established in 1960, UC San Diego has been shaped by exceptional scholars who are not afraid to look deeper, challenge expectations and redefine conventional wisdom. As one of the top 20 research universities in the world and the only academic medical center in San Diego, we are driving innovation and change to advance society, improve the health of our community, propel economic growth and make our world a better place. Learn more at www.ucsd.edu.

About Spin

Spin is the micromobility unit of Ford Motor Company, operating electric bikes and electric scooters on North American and European cities and campuses. Spin launched the first-ever stationless bike share program in the United States and was instrumental in crafting the world's first mobility permitting system that is now used around the world. Spin consists of a diverse team of experienced professionals from government and private sectors, and the transportation advocacy world, all of whom are committed to fulfilling the company's mission- to help create a world full of 15-minute cities. https://www.spin.app

About TransLoc

As a part of Ford's mobility portfolio, TransLoc delivers a one-stop-shop for transit providers seeking transit orchestration solutions. Recognized by Fast Company for its innovative technology, today TransLoc's intelligent transportation software portfolio includes flexible demand response, fixed-route systems, and planning services, providing software and services for more than 1500 transit providers worldwide. Powering more than 600 million annual rides, TransLoc's fixed-route and on-demand systems are at the core of both cities and towns, and on university and business campuses. TransLoc has collectively partnered with agencies to deliver the highest level of service and win the confidence of the riding public for more than a decade. Click here to learn how to partner with TransLoc and Spin.

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 182,000 people worldwide. More information about the company, its products and Ford Motor Credit Company is available at corporate.ford.com.

CONTACT:

Stephanie Epstein

617-779-1845

[email protected]

SOURCE TransLoc
WASHINGTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in education rankings, today published the 2022 edition of the Best Global Universities rankings. The new edition evaluates more than 1,700 schools in the overall ranking  up from nearly 1,500 last year  on academic research and reputation.

The U.S. leads the overall ranking, with schools in the top four spots. No. 1 is Harvard University, followed by Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University and the University of CaliforniaBerkeley at No. 2, 3 and 4, respectively. Rounding out the top five is the University of Oxford in the U.K.

The 2022 edition includes universities from more than 90 countries. The most ranked schools are in the following countries:

U.S.: 271

China : 253

: 253 Japan : 93

: 93 U.K.: 89

Germany : 70

"These rankings stand out from our other education rankings due to their emphasis on academic research," said Robert Morse, chief data strategist at U.S. News. "The Best Global Universities feature an overall ranking of more than 1,700 universities, as well as subject rankings of additional 255 universities, for a total of 2,005 schools, providing even more information for prospective students interested in schools where research is a top priority."

Five new subjects were added to the rankings, bringing the total to 43. The new subjects are chemistry, physical; food science and technology; optics; physics, condensed matter; and polymer science.

Based on Web of Science  data and InCites  metrics provided by Clarivate, a global leader in providing trusted information and insights to accelerate the pace of innovation, the Best Global Universities methodology weighs factors that measure a university's global and regional research reputation and academic research performance. For the overall rankings, this includes bibliometric indicators such as publications, citations and international collaboration. Each subject ranking has its own methodology based on academic research performance in that specific area.

"As students, faculty and staff continue to navigate the pandemic, comparable school-specific data remains important to individuals exploring their higher education options," said Kim Castro, editor and chief content officer of U.S. News. "For eight years and counting, the Best Global Universities rankings have provided easily accessible data that prospective students can use to evaluate those options."

2022 U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities

Overall Best Global Universities  Top 10

1. Harvard University (U.S.)

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (U.S.)

3. Stanford University (U.S.)

4. University of CaliforniaBerkeley (U.S.)

5. University of Oxford (U.K.)

6. Columbia University (U.S.)

7. University of WashingtonSeattle (U.S.)

8. University of Cambridge (U.K.)

9. California Institute of Technology (U.S.) (tie)

9. Johns Hopkins University (U.S.) (tie)

Africa  Top 3

1. University of Cape Town (South Africa)

2. University of Witwatersrand (South Africa)

3. Stellenbosch University (South Africa)

Asia  Top 3

1. Tsinghua University (China)

2. National University of Singapore

3. Nanyang Technological University (Singapore)

Australia/New Zealand  Top 3

1. University of Melbourne (Australia)

2. University of Sydney

3. University of Queensland (Australia)

Europe  Top 3

1. University of Oxford (U.K.)

2. University of Cambridge (U.K.)

3. University College London

Latin America  Top 3

1. Universidade de Sao Paulo (Brazil)

2. Universidade Estadual de Campinas (Brazil)

3. Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile

The Best Global Universities rankings serve the broader U.S. News mission of providing trusted information and rankings  such as Best K-8 Schools , Best Colleges and Best Online Programs  to help all students navigate their higher education options. For Chinese students in particular, U.S. News offers online resource centers published in Chinese to help guide prospective undergraduate and graduate students interested in studying abroad.

For more information on the Best Global Universities, visit Facebook and Twitter using #BestGlobal.

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower citizens, consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

About Clarivate

Clarivate is a global leader in providing solutions to accelerate the lifecycle of innovation. Our bold mission is to help customers solve some of the world's most complex problems by providing actionable information and insights that reduce the time from new ideas to life-changing inventions in the areas of science and intellectual property. We help customers discover, protect and commercialize their inventions using our trusted subscription and technology-based solutions coupled with deep domain expertise. For more information, please visit www.clarivate.com

SOURCE U.S. News & World Report
The factors such as the growing consolidation of vendors and rising demand for sanitary pumps in the food and beverage industry will offer immense growth opportunities. However, the volatility in raw material prices will challenge the growth of the market participants. 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. The sanitary pumps market is fragmented, and the degree of fragmentation will accelerate during the forecast period.

Sanitary Pumps Market 2020-2024: Segmentation

Product

PD Sanitary Pump



Centrifugal Sanitary Pump

End-user

Food And Beverage



Pharmaceutical



Others

Geographic Landscape

APAC



Europe



North America



South America



MEA

Sanitary Pumps Market 2020-2024: Vendor Analysis and Scope

Some of the major vendors of the sanitary pumps market includes Alfa Laval AB, Ampco Pumps Co., Dover Corp., FRISTAM Pumpen KG (GmbH & Co.), GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft, IDEX Corp., ITT Inc., KSB SE & Co. KGaA, SPX FLOW Inc., and Xylem Inc.. 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:

Get lifetime access to our Technavio Insights. Subscribe now to our most popular "Lite Plan" billed annually at USD 3000 . View 3 reports monthly and Download 3 Reports Annually!

Sanitary Pumps Market 2020-2024: Key Highlights

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2020-2024

Detailed information on factors that will assist sanitary pumps market growth during the next five years

Estimation of the sanitary pumps market size and its contribution to the parent market

Predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior

The growth of the sanitary pumps market

Analysis of the market's competitive landscape and detailed information on vendors

Comprehensive details of factors that will challenge the growth of sanitary pumps market vendors

Related Reports:

Industrial Heat Pumps Market -The industrial heat pumps market size is expected to grow by USD 562.43 million and record a CAGR of 5.33% during 2021-2025. Download a free sample report now!

Hot Water Recirculation Pumps Market -The hot water recirculation pumps market size is expected to grow by USD 1.69 billion and record a CAGR of 7.30% during 2021-2025. Download a free sample report now!

Sanitary Pumps Market Scope Report Coverage Details Page number 120 Base year 2019 Forecast period 2020-2024 Growth momentum & CAGR Accelerate at a CAGR of 6% Market growth 2020-2024 USD 753.17 million Market structure Fragmented YoY growth (%) 5.65 Regional analysis North America, APAC, Europe, South America, and MEA Performing market contribution APAC at 51% Key consumer countries China and India Competitive landscape Leading companies, competitive strategies, consumer engagement scope Companies profiled Alfa Laval AB, Ampco Pumps Co., Dover Corp., FRISTAM Pumpen KG (GmbH & Co.), GEA Group Aktiengesellschaft, IDEX Corp., ITT Inc., KSB SE & Co. KGaA, SPX FLOW Inc., and Xylem Inc. Market Dynamics Parent market analysis, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period Customization purview If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized.

Download a free sample now to uncover highlights deployed by Companies of the sanitary pumps market.

About Us

Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. Their research and analysis focus on emerging market trends and provide 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

Related Links

http://www.technavio.com/


CALGARY, AB, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - Vermilion Energy Inc. ("Vermilion", "We", "Our", "Us" or the "Company") (TSX: VET) (NYSE: VET) will release its 2021 third quarter operating and condensed financial results on Tuesday, November 9, 2021 after the close of North American markets. The unaudited financial statements and management discussion and analysis for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2021 will be available on the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval ("SEDAR") at www.sedar.com, on EDGAR at www.sec.gov/edgar.shtml, and on Vermilion's website at www.vermilionenergy.com.

Conference Call and Webcast Details

Vermilion will discuss these results in a conference call and webcast presentation on Wednesday, November 10, 2021 at 9:00 AM MST (11:00 AM EST). To participate, call 1-866-248-8441 (Canada and US Toll Free) or 1-647-792-1240 (International and Toronto Area). A recording of the conference call will be available for replay by calling 1-888-203-1112 and using the conference ID 8475151 from November 10, 2021 at 12:00 MST to November 24, 2021 at 21:59 MST.

You may also access the webcast at https://produceredition.webcasts.com/starthere.jsp?ei=1503760&tp_key=24b7778554. The webcast link, along with conference call slides, will be available on Vermilion's website at http://www.vermilionenergy.com/invest-with-us/events--presentations.cfm under Upcoming Events prior to the conference call.



About Vermilion

Vermilion is an international energy producer that seeks to create value through the acquisition, exploration, development and optimization of producing assets in North America, Europe and Australia. Our business model emphasizes free cash flow generation and returning capital to investors when economically warranted, augmented by value-adding acquisitions. Vermilion's operations are focused on the exploitation of light oil and liquids-rich natural gas conventional resource plays in North America and the exploration and development of conventional natural gas and oil opportunities in Europe and Australia.

Vermilion's priorities are health and safety, the environment, and profitability, in that order. Nothing is more important to us than the safety of the public and those who work with us, and the protection of our natural surroundings. In addition, Vermilion emphasizes strategic community investment in each of our operating areas. We have been recognized as a strong performer amongst Canadian publicly listed companies in governance practices, a Climate Leadership level (A-) performer by the CDP, and a Best Workplace in the Great Place to Work Institute's annual rankings in Canada and Germany.

Employees and directors hold approximately 5% of our outstanding shares and are committed to delivering long-term value for all stakeholders. Vermilion trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange and the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol VET.

SOURCE Vermilion Energy Inc.

Related Links

http://www.vermilionenergy.com


DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Vietnam Express Delivery Services Market by Application, End Use, and Destination: Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2020-2027" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

Express delivery service is a quick parcel delivery service for which the customer pays a considerable amount. It is a facility for international and domestic mail. It mainly includes non-palletized packages of documents, parcels, letters, merchandise, and other consumer goods to various customers such as retail, business, and government agencies. The delivery time usually varies between 24 and 72 hours depending on destination. Express delivery services are coupled with a variety of value-added services, such as packaging, labeling, billing, payment collection, and return, to improvise the delivery experience for the user.



Factors, such as the growing e-commerce industry coupled with the rise in B2C deliveries and rapid growth in international trade services, are expected to drive the market growth. However, lack of infrastructure and higher operational costs hinder the market growth. Further, the rise in technological advancements in delivery services and the emergence of last-mile deliveries with technological advancements in delivery vehicles are some of the factors that are expected to offer lucrative opportunities for market growth. Moreover, the growth of value-added services in express delivery and rapid growth of same day delivery services are some factors trending in the Vietnam express delivery services market.



The Vietnam express delivery services market is segmented on the basis of application, end use, and destination. Based on application, it is bifurcated into B2B and B2C. By end use, it is divided into e-commerce platform, social media platform, document service, and others. On the basis of destination, it is categorized into domestics and international.



COVID-19 Impact Analysis: The outbreak of COVID-19 resulted in flight cancellations, travel bans, and quarantines, which led to the massive slowing of express delivery service activities across the world. The coronavirus pandemic is an unprecedented crisis with dramatic economic impacts on the Vietnam express delivery services industry. Although the pandemic has accelerated the decline of letters & document parcels and the growth of e-commerce parcels due to the increased number of people shopping from home. E-commerce and the daily essentials goods industry is expected to affect the express delivery service industry positively during the COVID-19 outbreak in Vietnam. As B2B express delivery services suffered and came to a halt, B2C emerged during the pandemic, owing to the rapid growth of the online retail and e-commerce industry.

Companies Mentioned

GHN (Fast Delivery)

BEST Express Vietnam (BEST Inc.)

GHTK

J&T Express ( Vietnam )

) Kerry Express ( Vietnam )

) Nasco Logistics JSC

Nhat Tin Logistics

Nin Sing Logistics Company Limited ( Ninja Van )

) Swift247

Viettel Post

VNPost

KEY BENEFITS FOR STAKEHOLDERS

This study presents an analytical depiction of the Vietnam express delivery services market analysis along with current trends and future estimations to depict imminent investment pockets.

express delivery services market analysis along with current trends and future estimations to depict imminent investment pockets. The overall Vietnam express delivery services market opportunity is determined by understanding profitable trends to gain a stronger foothold.

express delivery services market opportunity is determined by understanding profitable trends to gain a stronger foothold. The report presents information related to the key drivers, restraints, and opportunities of the Vietnam express delivery services market with detailed impact analysis.

express delivery services market with detailed impact analysis. The current Vietnam express delivery services market is quantitatively analyzed from 2019 to 2027 to benchmark financial competency.

express delivery services market is quantitatively analyzed from 2019 to 2027 to benchmark financial competency. Porter's five forces analysis illustrates the potency of the buyers and suppliers in the industry.

KEY MARKET SEGMENTS

By Application

B2B

B2C

By End Use

E-commerce Platform

Social Media Platform

Document Service

Others

By Destination

Domestics

International

Key Topics Covered:

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

1.1. Report description

1.2. Key benefits for stakeholders

1.3. Key market segments

1.4. Research methodology

CHAPTER 2: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

CHAPTER 3: MARKET OVERVIEW

3.1. Market definition and scope

3.2. Key findings

3.2.1. Top impacting factors

3.2.2. Top investment pockets

3.2.3. Top winning strategies

3.3. Porter's five forces analysis

3.4. Market share analysis (2020)

3.5. Market dynamics

3.5.1. Drivers

3.5.1.1. Growing e-commerce industry coupled with a rise in B2C deliveries

3.5.1.2. Rapid growth in international trade services

3.5.2. Restraints

3.5.2.1. Lack of infrastructure

3.5.2.2. Higher operational costs

3.5.3. Opportunities

3.5.3.1. Rise in technological advancements in delivery services

3.5.3.2. Emergence of last-mile deliveries with technological advancements in delivery vehicles

3.5.4. Trends

3.5.4.1. Growth of value-added services in express delivery

3.5.4.2. Rapid growth of same day delivery services

3.6. Impact of COVID-19 on the market

3.6.1. Evolution of outbreaks

3.6.1.1. COVID-19

3.6.2. Micro economic impact analysis

3.6.2.1. Consumer trends

3.6.2.2. Technology trends

3.6.2.3. Regulatory trends

3.6.3. Macro-economic impact analysis

3.6.3.1. GDP

3.6.3.2. Import/export analysis

3.6.3.3. Employment index

3.6.4. Impact on industry analysis

3.7. Express delivery services volume, by e-commerce platform

3.7.1. Tiki

3.7.1.1. Company overview and business insights

3.7.2. Shopee

3.7.2.1. Company overview and business insights

3.7.3. Lazada Group

3.7.3.1. Company overview and business insights

3.7.4. Sendo.vn

3.7.4.1. Company overview and business insights

CHAPTER 4: VIETNAM EXPRESS DELIVERY SERVICES MARKET, BY APPLICATION

4.1. Overview

4.2. B2B

4.3. B2C

CHAPTER 5: VIETNAM EXPRESS DELIVERY SERVICES MARKET, BY END USE

5.1. Overview

5.2. E-commerce platform

5.2.1. Key market trends, growth factors, and opportunities

5.2.2. Market size and forecast

5.3. Social media platform

5.3.1. Key market trends, growth factors, and opportunities

5.3.2. Market size and forecast

5.4. Document service

5.4.1. Key market trends, growth factors, and opportunities

5.4.2. Market size and forecast

5.5. Others

5.5.1. Key market trends, growth factors, and opportunities

5.5.2. Market size and forecast

CHAPTER 6: VIETNAM EXPRESS DELIVERY SERVICES MARKET, BY DESTINATION

6.1. Overview

6.2. Domestics

6.3. International

CHAPTER 7: COMPANY PROFILES

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/4ah5gh

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

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U.S. Fax: 646-607-1904

Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716

SOURCE Research and Markets

Related Links

http://www.researchandmarkets.com


ARLINGTON, Va., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CES 2022 will return to Las Vegas for an in-person and digital event from Jan. 5-8, 2022. Today the Consumer Technology Association (CTA) announced it has selected Web Summit as the digital platform provider for CES 2022 . Web Summit's event operating system, Summit Engine, is a cloud-based platform, built to support events with both in-person and digital audiences.

"For CES 2022, we sought a platform that would benefit both in-person and digital attendees," said Jean Foster, senior vice president of marketing and communications, CTA. "Working with an innovative and unique company like Web Summit allows CES to, once again, reimagine how we convene and collaborate as an industry."

Exhibitors and attendees from across the globe will connect and experience the latest product launches and thought-provoking content. Those participating in person will use Summit Engine, Web Summit's proprietary event operating system, to plan their CES schedule and connect with other participants. Digital audiences will have the opportunity to share the excitement of the in-person event by accessing live keynotes, viewing select conference sessions and connecting with exhibitors and other attendees.

"We're delighted to be chosen by CTA as their digital platform provider for CES 2022, and we understand what large scale, complex events like these demand," said Paddy Cosgrave, co-founder and CEO at Web Summit. "We've been quietly building our software, Summit Engine, for nearly a decade to augment our physical events so moving them fully online during the pandemic was easy for us."

Exhibitors with a physical presence in Las Vegas can expand their reach to CES digital participants with this creative platform to showcase their product launches and thought leadership. For all attendees, networking and on-demand content will be available through the end of January. Registration to attend CES 2022 digitally will open in December.

Owned and produced by CTA, CES 2022 will convene the tech industry in person and digitally, Wednesday, Jan. 5 to Saturday, Jan. 8, with Media Days taking place Monday, Jan. 3 to Tuesday, Jan. 4. Global audiences will have access to major brands and startups, as well as the world's most-influential leaders and industry advocates. For over 50 years, CES has been the global stage for innovation, and CES 2022 will provide an opportunity for companies from around the world, both large and small, to launch products, build brands and form partnerships. Registration is now open for industry and media attendees. Visit CES.tech for all CES 2022 updates, including health protocols and the media page for all press resources.

About CES:

CES is the most influential tech event in the world  the proving ground for breakthrough technologies and global innovators. This is where the world's biggest brands do business and meet new partners, and the sharpest innovators hit the stage. Owned and produced by the Consumer Technology Association (CTA), CES features every aspect of the tech sector. CES 2022 will take place in person in Las Vegas, and digitally, Jan. 5-8, 2022. Learn more at CES.tech and follow CES on social .



About Consumer Technology Association:

As North America's largest technology trade association, CTA is the tech sector. Our members are the world's leading innovators  from startups to global brands  helping support more than 18 million American jobs. CTA owns and produces CES  the most influential tech event in the world. Find us at CTA.tech . Follow us @CTAtech .

About Web Summit:

Web Summit is one of the world's largest technology events, connecting people and ideas that change the world. Web Summit events have gathered half a million people across Web Summit in Lisbon, Collision in North America, and RISE in Asia since its beginnings as a 150-person conference in Dublin in 2009.

Our mission has been to create software that improves conferences and enables meaningful connections between the CEOs, founders, investors, media, politicians and cultural figureheads who are reshaping the world.

UPCOMING EVENTS

CES Unveiled New York

Nov. 10, 2021  New York, NY

Consumer Technology Hall of Fame Dinner

Nov. 11, 2021  New York, NY

CES Unveiled Las Vegas

Jan. 3, 2022  Las Vegas, NV

CES 2022 Media Days

Jan. 3-4, 2022  Las Vegas, NV

CES 2022

Jan. 5-8, 2022  Las Vegas, NV

SOURCE Consumer Technology Association
DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Critical Infrastructure Protection Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2021-2026" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The global critical infrastructure protection market exhibited moderate growth during 2015-2020. Looking forward, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% during 2021-2026. Keeping in mind the uncertainties of COVID-19, the analyst is continuously tracking and evaluating the direct as well as the indirect influence of the pandemic on different end use industries. These insights are included in the report as a major market contributor.



Critical infrastructure protection (CIP) refers to a security solution used for safeguarding systems, assets and networks from potential threats. It consists of various solutions, such as firewalls, identity and access management, risk and compliance management, antiviruses, intrusion detection systems and encryption systems. These systems protect information related to power grids, railways, nuclear plants and hydro plants from cyberattacks that can threaten public safety, attack national security or cause environmental disasters. CIP solutions also use wireless technology, industrial control systems (ICS), operation technology (OT) and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to expose additional security vulnerabilities.



The increasing instances of security breaches and cyber-attacks that pose a threat to infrastructural development across the globe are among the key factors driving the growth of the market. The rising concerns for the security and safety of government information and the increasing trend of Bring-Your-Own-Devices (BYOD) across industries have enhanced the requirement for CIP systems. The rapidly expanding internet and interconnected network architecture have influenced federal and security organizations to safeguard cyberspace and minimize threat vulnerabilities. Additionally, various technological advancements, such as the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, are acting as other growth-inducing factors. They offer scalable and cost-effective data security solutions, owing to which CIP solutions are widely being deployed. Other factors, including improvements in the information technology (IT) infrastructure, along with the increasing adoption of risk management services, are projected to drive the market further.

Competitive Landscape

The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined with some of the key players being BAE Systems PLC, Lockheed Martin Corporation, General Dynamics Corporation, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Honeywell International Inc., Airbus SE, Hexagon AB, Waterfall Security Solutions, General Electric Company, McAfee Inc. (TPG Capital and Intel Corporation) and Raytheon Company (United Technologies Corporation).



Key Topics Covered:



1 Preface



2 Scope and Methodology



3 Executive Summary



4 Introduction

4.1 Overview

4.2 Key Industry Trends



5 Global Critical Infrastructure Protection Market

5.1 Market Overview

5.2 Market Performance

5.3 Impact of COVID-19

5.4 Market Forecast



6 Market Breakup by Component

6.1 Solutions

6.1.1 Market Trends

6.1.2 Market Breakup by Type

6.1.2.1 Physical Security Solutions

6.1.2.1.1 Market Trends

6.1.2.1.2 Market Breakup by Type

6.1.2.1.2.1 Physical Identity and Access Control Systems

6.1.2.1.2.2 Perimeter Intrusion Detection Systems

6.1.2.1.2.3 Video Surveillance Systems

6.1.2.1.2.4 Screening and Scanning

6.1.2.1.2.5 Others

6.1.2.1.3 Market Forecast

6.1.2.2 Cyber Security Solutions

6.1.2.2.1 Market Trends

6.1.2.2.2 Market Breakup by Type

6.1.2.2.2.1 Encryption

6.1.2.2.2.2 Network Access Control and Firewall

6.1.2.2.2.3 Threat Intelligence

6.1.2.2.2.4 Others

6.1.2.2.3 Market Forecast

6.1.3 Market Forecast

6.2 Services

6.2.1 Market Trends

6.2.2 Market Breakup by Type

6.2.2.1 Designing and Integration Services

6.2.2.2 Consultation Services

6.2.2.3 Risk Management Services

6.2.2.4 Maintenance and Support Services

6.2.3 Market Forecast



7 Market Breakup by End-user

7.1 Financial Institutions

7.1.1 Market Trends

7.1.2 Market Forecast

7.2 Government

7.2.1 Market Trends

7.2.2 Market Forecast

7.3 Defense

7.3.1 Market Trends

7.3.2 Market Forecast

7.4 Transport and Logistics

7.4.1 Market Trends

7.4.2 Market Forecast

7.5 Energy and Power

7.5.1 Market Trends

7.5.2 Market Forecast

7.6 Commercial Sector

7.6.1 Market Trends

7.6.2 Market Forecast

7.7 Others

7.7.1 Market Trends

7.7.2 Market Forecast



8 Market Breakup by Region



9 SWOT Analysis

10 Value Chain Analysis



11 Porters Five Forces Analysis



12 Price Analysis



13 Competitive Landscape

13.1 Market Structure

13.2 Key Players

13.3 Profiles of Key Players

13.3.1 BAE Systems PLC

13.3.1.1 Company Overview

13.3.1.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.1.3 Financials

13.3.1.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.2 Lockheed Martin Corporation

13.3.2.1 Company Overview

13.3.2.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.2.3 Financials

13.3.2.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.3 General Dynamics Corporation

13.3.3.1 Company Overview

13.3.3.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.3.3 Financials

13.3.3.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.4 Northrop Grumman Corporation

13.3.4.1 Company Overview

13.3.4.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.4.3 Financials

13.3.4.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.5 Honeywell International Inc.

13.3.5.1 Company Overview

13.3.5.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.5.3 Financials

13.3.5.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.6 Airbus SE

13.3.6.1 Company Overview

13.3.6.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.6.3 Financials

13.3.6.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.7 Hexagon AB

13.3.7.1 Company Overview

13.3.7.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.7.3 Financials

13.3.7.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.8 Waterfall Security Solutions

13.3.8.1 Company Overview

13.3.8.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.8.3 Financials

13.3.9 General Electric Company

13.3.9.1 Company Overview

13.3.9.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.9.3 Financials

13.3.9.4 SWOT Analysis

13.3.10 McAfee Inc. (TPG Capital and Intel Corporation)

13.3.10.1 Company Overview

13.3.10.2 Product Portfolio

13.3.11 Raytheon Company (United Technologies Corporation)

13.3.11.1 Company Overview

13.3.11.2 Product Portfolio



For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/x99uws

Media Contact:

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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



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DUBLIN, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The "Health & Wellness Food Market Research Report by Product, Distribution Channel, and Region - Global Forecast to 2026 - Cumulative Impact of COVID-19" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering.

The Global Health & Wellness Food Market size was estimated at USD 95.56 billion in 2020, is expected to reach USD 104.27 billion in 2021, and projected to grow at a CAGR of 9.20% reaching USD 162.09 billion 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.

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 Health & Wellness Food 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.



Competitive Scenario

The Competitive Scenario provides an outlook analysis of the various business growth strategies adopted by the vendors. The news covered in this section deliver valuable thoughts at the different stage while keeping up-to-date with the business and engage stakeholders in the economic debate. The competitive scenario represents press releases or news of the companies categorized into Merger & Acquisition, Agreement, Collaboration, & Partnership, New Product Launch & Enhancement, Investment & Funding, and Award, Recognition, & Expansion. All the news collected help vendor to understand the gaps in the marketplace and competitor's strength and weakness thereby, providing insights to enhance product and service.



Company Usability Profiles

The report profoundly explores the recent significant developments by the leading vendors and innovation profiles in the Global Health & Wellness Food Market, including Albert's Organics, Inc., Aleias Gluten Free Foods, LLC, Big Oz Industries Limited, BioGaia AB, Blue Diamond Growers, Inc., Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc., Chr. Hansen Holding A/S, Clover Industries, Inc., Danone SA, Domino's Pizza, Inc., Doves Farm Foods Ltd, Dr. Sch r AG/SPA, Eden Foods, Inc., Enjoy Life Natural Brands, LLC, FARMO S.p.A., French Meadow Bakery & Cafe, General Mills, Inc., Gerber Products Company, GlaxoSmithKline plc, Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Inc., Hero Group AG, Kellogg, Nestle S.A., and PepsiCo, Inc.



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 Health & Wellness Food Market?

2. What are the inhibiting factors and impact of COVID-19 shaping the Global Health & Wellness Food Market during the forecast period?

3. Which are the products/segments/applications/areas to invest in over the forecast period in the Global Health & Wellness Food Market?

4. What is the competitive strategic window for opportunities in the Global Health & Wellness Food Market?

5. What are the technology trends and regulatory frameworks in the Global Health & Wellness Food Market?

6. What is the market share of the leading vendors in the Global Health & Wellness Food Market?

7. What modes and strategic moves are considered suitable for entering the Global Health & Wellness Food Market?



Key Topics Covered:



1. Preface

2. Research Methodology



3. Executive Summary

4. Market Overview



5. Market Dynamics

5.1. Introduction

5.2. Drivers

5.2.1. Rising inclination of people towards healthy eating habits including nutritional food and active lifestyle

5.2.2. Rising adoption of natural and organic food over processed and chemicals laced food

5.2.3. Rising chronic disease and affluence

5.2.4. Adoption of prebiotic and probiotic food among progressive consumers

5.2.5. Growing developed food sensitivity and high disposable incomes

5.2.6. Increased online availability of food products

5.3. Restraints

5.3.1. Limited self-life of products

5.3.2. High cost of health and wellness food

5.4. Opportunities

5.4.1. Personalizing to local consumption preferences

5.4.2. Partnership for successful entry and distribution

5.5. Challenges

5.5.1. Regulation related to food quality and safety



6. Health & Wellness Food Market, by Product

6.1. Introduction

6.2. Better-For-You (BFY) Food

6.3. Food Intolerance Products

6.4. Functional Food

6.5. Naturally Health Food

6.6. Organic Food



7. Health & Wellness Food Market, by Distribution Channel

7.1. Introduction

7.2. Offline Mode

7.3. Online Mode



8. Americas Health & Wellness Food Market

8.1. Introduction

8.2. Argentina

8.3. Brazil

8.4. Canada

8.5. Mexico

8.6. United States



9. Asia-Pacific Health & Wellness Food 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. Taiwan

9.12. Thailand



10. Europe, Middle East & Africa Health & Wellness Food 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. Albert's Organics, Inc.

12.2. Aleias Gluten Free Foods, LLC

12.3. Big Oz Industries Limited

12.4. BioGaia AB

12.5. Blue Diamond Growers, Inc.

12.6. Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc.

12.7. Chr. Hansen Holding A/S

12.8. Clover Industries, Inc.

12.9. Danone SA

12.10. Domino's Pizza, Inc.

12.11. Doves Farm Foods Ltd.

12.12. Dr. Sch r AG/SPA

12.13. Eden Foods, Inc.

12.14. Enjoy Life Natural Brands, LLC

12.15. FARMO S.p.A.

12.16. French Meadow Bakery & Cafe

12.17. General Mills, Inc.

12.18. Gerber Products Company

12.19. GlaxoSmithKline plc

12.20. Green Mountain Coffee Roasters Inc.

12.21. Hero Group AG

12.22. Kellogg

12.23. Nestle S.A.

12.24. PepsiCo, Inc.



13. Appendix

For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/mdftl3

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

Related Links

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To learn more about the MEE or submit a request for it to come to your community, visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/MEE Tweet this

"The goal of the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit is to bring communities together and teach about the organization's mission while remembering the service and sacrifice of our nation's heroes," said Don Queeney, Director of Transportation, and the Mobile Education Exhibit, Wreaths Across America. "The exhibit serves as a mobile museum, educating visitors about the service and sacrifice of our nation's heroes as well as to serve as an official 'welcome home' station for our nation's Vietnam Veterans."

Highlights of the 2021 Mobile Education Exhibit national tour include stops in Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, California, Utah, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Florida, Ohio, Tennessee, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, West Virginia, Massachusetts, and its home state of Maine. The tour was bolstered by many local volunteers. A special thanks to the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) whose members supported many of this year's stops and looks to grow their involvement in the coming year. Most importantly, the MEE and WAA Ambassadors transporting it and sharing the mission are proud to have officially welcomed home over 1,500 Vietnam veterans (1,000 in 2021 alone) as part of the organization's partnership with the United States of America Vietnam War Veterans Commemoration.

When the MEE pulls into your area, all veterans, active-duty military, their families, and the local community members are invited and encouraged to visit, take a tour, and speak with WAA Ambassadors and volunteers. The public tour stops for the MEE are free and open to the public with local COVID-19 safety procedures in place to protect the health of all visitors in accordance with the CDCs recommendation. Members of the media, dignitaries, veterans, and other interested groups are urged to come, ask questions, share stories, and experience this one-of-a-kind exhibit.

Wreaths Across America is the non-profit organization best known for placing wreaths on veteran's headstones at Arlington National Cemetery. However, in 2020 alone, the organization placed more than 1.7 million sponsored veterans' wreaths at 2,557 participating locations nationwide. Throughout the calendar year you can tune in to Wreaths Across America Internet Radio, 24/7, to learn more about the mission and those who support it across the country, as well as the hundreds of local charitable efforts nationwide that are funded through wreath sponsorships.

You can sponsor a veteran's wreath anytime for $15 at www.wreathacrossamerica.org. Each sponsorship goes toward a live, balsam wreath that will be placed on the headstone of an American hero as we endeavor to honor all veterans laid to rest at noon on Saturday, December 18, 2021, as part of National Wreaths across America Day.

To learn more about the Mobile Education Exhibit or submit a request for it to come to your community, click here.

About Wreaths Across America

Wreaths Across America is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded to continue and expand the annual wreath-laying ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery begun by Maine businessman Morrill Worcester in 1992. The organization's mission  Remember, Honor, Teach  is carried out in part each year by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in December at Arlington, as well as thousands of veterans' cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.



For more information or to sponsor a wreath please visit www.wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Press contact:

Sean Sullivan

Wreaths Across America  Public Relations Liaison

[email protected]

(207) 230-4599

SOURCE Wreaths Across America

Related Links

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Qiu Dongyao, mayor of the Ningbo Municipal People's Government noted in the opening speech that Ningbo has maintained high-quality economic and social development in recent years, and its GDP registered 1,240.9 billion yuan in 2020, ranking 12th among Chinese cities.

Noting the current development of Ningbo's fashion industry, Qiu Dongyao pointed out that Ningbo is becoming a cutting-edge city in the fashion industry empowered by its solid industrial base and advanced intelligent smart manufacturing technology.

Facing the new round of technological revolution and commercial consumption changes, Ningbo has played a vital role in the development of China's apparel industry with constant efforts in boosting intelligent reform, encouraging design innovations, and branding. This also helped Ningbo develop into a innovative manufacturing center with international influential, according to Chen Dapeng, vice director of China National Textile and Apparel Council and head of the China National Garment Association.

Meanwhile, an award ceremony was held at the opening ceremony of the Fashion Festival, and 40 Chinese apparel enterprise were given the "Fashion Ningbo" awards.

The event, sponsored by the China National Textile and Apparel Council, the Ningbo municipal government and the Zhejiang Department of Economy and Information Technology, has attracted participants from 218 enterprises both home abroad, including 18 foreign brands from seven countries such as the United States, Japan and France.

See the original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/324430.html

SOURCE Xinhua Silk Road
SUZHOU, China, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- In Clarivate Essential Science Indicators' latest release, Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University entered the ESI Top 1% list of institutions in the field of Social Science, General, for the first time.

The number of XJTLU's citations in Social Science, General is in the top 1% globally when compared to institutions also publishing in the same field over the last 10 years. Following Engineering and Computer Science, this is the third field earning XJTLU a spot on the ESI Top 1%, with the University's overall global ranking continuing to rise.

The number of ESI research fields entering the global Top 1% is an important indicator of the scholarly performance and impact of academic institutions.

Social Sciences, General is a field of study incorporating a wide range of topics such as communication, education, demography and law.

PROMINENT PAPERS

During the 10-year period considered, XJTLU researchers published 222 papers receiving 1,810 citations in the journals ESI counts for Social Sciences, General. Of those, ESI considers five papers as ESI Top Papers.

XJTLU's International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) contributed four ESI Top Papers in the field of Social Sciences, General, and the University's Design School contributed one paper considered as this field:

Dr Lixian Qian of the Department of Intelligent Operations and Marketing at IBSS is the corresponding author of an ESI Top Paper for Social Sciences, General. The 2019 paper about dockless bike-sharing systems in China was cited 25 times by researchers worldwide in the journals ESI surveyed.

of the Department of Intelligent Operations and Marketing at IBSS is corresponding author of an ESI Top Paper for Social Sciences, General. The 2019 paper about dockless bike-sharing systems in was cited 25 times by researchers worldwide in the journals ESI surveyed. Dr Jianli Hao of the Department of Civil Engineering is the corresponding author of the Design School Top Paper counted in this field. The study, on the construction and demolition waste minimisation system in China , was published in 2021.

XJTLU'S CITATIONS CLIMBING

Among all institutions in the Chinese mainland, XJTLU now ranks 423rd, six places up from the previous ranking.

Overall, XJTLU has 41 ESI Top Papers. Key XJTLU contributors of ESI Top Papers are the School of Science with 17; IBSS with 12; and the School of Advanced Technology with nine.

ESI is an analytical tool that identifies top-performing research published in 11,000 journals globally based on publication and citation performance in 22 broad ESI-defined fields.

SOURCE Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

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"Facing the next strategy period, ZTE will achieve leap-forward development with the principle of 'three strategies, two curves'. 'Three strategies' here lie in innovation, globalization and end-to-end product solutions. 'Two curves' mean that on one hand, ZTE sticks to solidifying its position, keeping the steady growth of operators' business in the first curve while on the other hand, ZTE will create its new horizon to achieve the rapid growth of government and enterprise business, terminals business and new business in the second curve.

Meanwhile, ZTE will be committed to becoming a highly resilient operating organization to adapt to the challenge of the uncertainty in the new normal, and adhere to a green and low-carbon strategy to achieve the company's long-term sustainable development.

According to Mr. Xie, ZTE aims to be included in the Fortune Global 500 list in next two to three years by maintaining a robust annual growth rate.

Here comes the original speech as follows:

Dear friends, good morning, good afternoon, and good evening. It's a pleasure for me to share with you ZTE's role, objective, and strategy in the era of digital economy. Five years has passed since our last Global Analyst Conference. During this period, we have witnessed great changes in the global environment and in ZTE. Today, ZTE has defined its new vision and mission, and is forging ahead towards the goal of creating greater value despite various challenges. Through the Global Analyst Conference, we hope you will know more about ZTE and feel free to voice your opinions.

Committed to becoming "the driver of digital economy" in the new era

As you may know, ZTE was founded in 1985, with the aspiration of bringing everyone affordable phone calls and thus realizing convenient communication. From the very beginning, ZTE has been committed to telecommunications and independent innovation.

For 36 years, we have been staying true to our original aspiration, and striving to connect "individuals, families, enterprises, and society" with ceaseless efforts and innovation. We are determined to fulfill our vision and mission, that is, "to enable connectivity and trust everywhere," and "to connect the world with continuous innovation for a better future."

Now, ZTE has grown from CT to ICT field. We have developed core digital technology, such as chipsets, databases, and operating systems; we provide complete cloud-network-end solutions; and we use intelligent and efficient tools for network deployment, O&M, and management. In addition, we are committed to sustainable development with green technology. With our digital solutions, we aim to be "a driver of digital economy", providing efficient and reliable digital infrastructure.

Solidifying its position with innovative initiatives, towards the Fortune Global 500

To fulfill this role, we have formulated the specific development strategy, to which the year 2021 is really crucial. In the strategy period from 2020 to 2021, our goal is to maintain robust growth of the business in the 1st curve by further participating in China's 5G construction and improving the market position of our key products overseas. Meanwhile, we hope to promote the business development in the 2nd curve through strengthening investment in the enterprise business, adjusting the structure of consumer business, and expanding new business. In the next strategy period, we resolve to maintain high-quality growth with a solid foundation in the 1st curve, and more importantly, create new horizons in the 2nd curve to achieve rapid growth.

Our objective for the next period is to strengthen ZTE's resilience to agilely address risks and seize opportunities in new business, and sustain annual growth to be ranked among the world's top 500 companies.

Now, let's take a look at our performance in the current strategy period. Against the backdrop of the pandemic and ever-changing global environment, we have basically achieved our goal of high-quality growth by promoting technological innovation and strengthening healthy and efficient operations. In 2020, our operator, enterprise, and consumer business witnessed noticeable growth, with the revenue increasing by 11.8% and the operating cash flow increasing by 37.4%.

In 2021, we have maintained high-quality growth and increased profitability. As shown in the financial report of the first half year, our revenue has scaled RMB53 billion with a year-on-year growth of 12.4%, and the revenue has grown by over 10% in both Chinese and overseas markets. Through continuous cost restructuring, our gross profit margin has increased to 36.1%, an increase of 2.7%. The net operating cash flow in the first half year also reached a record high. In operator business, we have maintained steady growth with a larger market share of 5G wireless, core network, and bearer network products in China. Our revenue of enterprise business grew by 17.7% in H1, with Chinese enterprise business increasing by over 50% and server and storage products doubled. The revenue from consumer business hit RMB12.3 billion, with an increase of 66.6%. Specifically, the revenue from home terminals and smartphones witnessed an increase of over 90% and 40%, respectively.

Sticking to the principle of "three directions, two curves" to achieve the sustainable development

We are embracing the next strategy period in 2022, which is essential to ZTE's future development.

In that period, we will focus on innovation, globalization, and end-to-end solutions to pursue progress while ensuring stability in the 1st curve, and seek rapid enhancement in the 2nd curve, so as to achieve sustainable development.

First, innovations. ZTE has been a company dedicated to independent innovations since its foundation. Our core competence lies in innovative technology that can create value for customers. For instance, we launched the ZXJ10 in the 1990s, which was China's first large-capacity digital SPC switching system; we presented the SDR base station in 2009; and with the Pre5G Massive MIMO solutions, we won the Best Mobile Technology Breakthrough award at MWC 2016 and the CTO's Choice 2016 award. Concentrating on "connectivity" and "computing power", we will strengthen the development of such core technologies as chipsets, algorithm, and architecture, and further the exploration and R&D of key products and technologies.

Regarding connectivity, we aim to speed up the R&D of 5G-advanced technology to create the greatest value. Also, we have started the research on 6G, and will strive to accelerate the application of key technologies, such as reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS). In addition, we are putting in more efforts to enhance optical network performance. For example, we have significantly increased the transmission capacity of all-optical networks. As for computing power, we will enhance the R&D of the next-generation cloud infrastructure, and further integrate AI and big data into PaaS and SaaS. What's more, we attach great importance to green design for sustainable development. To be specific, we adopt new materials, components, and design to reduce power consumption of equipment, and use such technologies as AI to improve power efficiency during network operations via intelligent control.

ZTE will increase investment and provide strong support for innovations. We have established the "Future Lab" for the exploration and R&D of prospective technologies. We have also partnered with top universities and research institutes, thus establishing long-term cooperation mechanisms for innovations. At present, we have launched over 800 projects jointly with our partners in the fields of CT and advanced manufacturing. Through all these efforts, we expect to promote technological innovation and create more value with partners from different industries.

Second, further globalization. The company is committed to globalization based on our commitment to compliance, cybersecurity, and business continuity management. In operator business, namely the 1st curve, we aim to maintain solid growth in global markets.

In Chinese markets, we are devoted to growing from a main supplier to a top-tier supplier, which requires a larger market share of our key products. More importantly, we should stimulate customers' demands instead of meeting requirements only, making a leap from a follower to a leader in the market. To achieve this goal, we will make further improvement in product innovation, agile R&D, and efficient delivery.

In overseas markets, we will focus on high-priority markets and strategic products. Specifically, we plan to increase the investment in emerging Asian markets, leading operator markets, and strategic European markets, and optimize our product presence through construction of 5G networks as well as fixed optical networks, reconstruction of existing 4G networks, upgrade of transport networks, and iteration of smartphones and home terminals. We will seize the opportunities in the changing global environment to guarantee healthy operations and steady growth.

Third, endto-end solutions. As a part of the end-to-end solutions, terminal devices are essential to ZTE's future growth. After organizational restructuring and brand integration, we are now working with more channel partners, and offering a comprehensive product portfolio of terminal devices, including smartphones, industrial terminals, home information terminals, and integrated innovation terminals.

With the increasing competitiveness, ZTE will promote its terminal products in both China and overseas markets. Through continuous innovation and further investments, ZTE is bound to take a lead in the terminal business, scaling new heights in China and maintaining steady growth overseas. In 2021, we plan to deliver more than 100 million consumer devices, of which 50% will carry our self-developed chipsets.

Enhancing the initiative capabilities to achieve rapid growth of the business in the 2nd curve

After consolidating the business in the 1st curve, our key task in the next strategy period is to achieve rapid growth of the business in the 2nd curve.

We will invest more in the enterprise business in terms of marketing, channels, and solutions. Also, the company will integrate internal resources, namely, to give full play to our overall advantages in branding, supply chain, and cloud-network ecosystem, thus facilitating the growth of enterprise business. Regarding capability building of channels, we will comprehensively enhance our services by continuously improving IT resources, processes, incentives, and training.

In addition, we will enhance the competitiveness of key products, including data communications, server and storage, distributed database, and data center products, and further enhance solution marketing in key sectors, such as e-government, energy, finance, Internet, and transportation. By providing integrated, scenario-based solutions, we aim to improve our overall competence in the enterprise market.

To achieve rapid growth in the 2nd curve, we also need to develop new business, such as automotive electronics and digital transformation.

In March 2021, ZTE set up the automotive electronics product line, aiming to provide underlying technology and core components of digital vehicles, and intelligent connected products and solutions. By working with partners, ZTE is committed to providing customized and ultimate automotive experience, and eventually create a network of intelligent vehicles, optimal routes, and powerful clouds. Our products range from chipsets, hardware and software platforms, to intelligent driving algorithms, and intelligent vehicle infrastructure. What's worth mentioning, we signed strategic cooperation agreements with China First Auto Works and Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation this summer.

Moreover, we strive to seize the business opportunities brought by corporate digitalization. In this regard, ZTE has been applying cloud technology for digitalization of its office work, R&D, and operations, thus building a cloudified company. Through practices, we have now formulated our methodology, and developed a full series of modular products and solutions. That is to say, ZTE has become a provider of digital transformation services for enterprises. ZTE's digital transformation solutions cover cloud-network foundation, data platforms, unified portals, digital office, digital production, and digital cybersecurity. With these modular component libraries, ZTE provides targeted services for various fields of corporate operations, accelerating the digital transformation of enterprises.

By grasping the opportunities in such new markets, ZTE is bound to achieve the rapid development of its business in the 2nd curve.

Building ZTE's resilience to grapple with the uncertainty of the new normal

I've introduced ZTE's strategy to promote business growth in the 1st and 2nd curves, and to achieve this goal, we need to develop the capability of guaranteeing sustainable development.

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the global changes have alerted us to numerous uncertainties in addition to the existing challenges. We have realized that the key to addressing uncertainties is resilience, which enables us to quickly adapt to unexpected changes. Towards the next strategy period, we are committed to building ZTE into a resilient organization, further enhancing its capabilities of anticipation, cushioning, and adaptation and shaping. Therefore, we will be able to ensure early discovery, strong vitality, and fast recovery when facing operational risks.

Agility makes success. In addition to resilience, we should also respond more agilely to risks. The key to success is to firmly promote digital transformation, expand and smooth value chains inside and outside the company, and optimize the whole processes with the use of big data, thus guaranteeing agile operations of the company.

As for building a resilient organization, digital transformation is a prerequisite, and can also enhance the operational quality and efficiency of the company.

In terms of in-house office work, we have Pocket ZTE, a smartphone app that enables mobile office and guarantees business continuity. At the beginning of 2020, our self-developed office cloud and R&D cloud allowed over 30,000 employees to work from home, achieving 95% work efficiency on the first workday. Today, we will get ready for complete telecommuting in several hours with our digital platforms, while maintaining the same efficiency as working at office.

Regarding supply chain, we have developed new networks, models, and platforms through business process reengineering and IT system restructuring. The former Shenzhen-centered supply chain has been transformed into a supply chain network with numerous centers located in Shenzhen, Heyuan, Nanjing, Xi'an, and Changsha, involving various ports, shipment centers, manufacturing bases, and factories. In addition, we have put our business online and achieved intelligent management of key business through big data and AI, which displays demand-supply changes and risks in real time. We have set up an intelligent operation center, dramatically enhancing the resilience of our supply chain network and guaranteeing business continuity.

Our resilience in marketing and engineering delivery is enhanced with the use of digital technology. Facing the challenges posed by the pandemic, we swiftly established online channels for visiting, demonstration, exhibition, and testing, ensuring smooth communication with customers. What's more, we have built a global cloud delivery center. By utilizing end-to-end automation tools and digital systems, we provide operators with contactless and instant network deployment and O&M. With our cloud solutions, global users can enjoy easy services on over 200 networks.

In the next period, we will deepen digital transformation to enhance our efficiency in operation, R&D, production, and external business, thus developing into a cloudified company with resilient supply chain, high R&D compatibility, quick-response operations, and flexible delivery.

Regarding sustainable development, ZTE always adheres to a green development strategy. We aim to provide operators with the green ICT foundation, and empower vertical industries with digital innovation to enhance energy efficiency. As for ZTE, we are committed to low-carbon operations through green production and circular economy, thus contributing to the reduction of carbon emissions.

At this pivotal point of ZTE's development, we look forward to building a win-win future with customers and partners based on openness and cooperation. Amid the uncertainties in the global context, ZTE will adhere to its development strategy, striving to respond to risks with resilience, and creating greater value through innovation. Working with our customers and partners around the globe, we are confident to enable connectivity and trust everywhere.

Thank you.

Media Contact:

Margaret Ma

ZTE Corporation

Tel: +86 755 26775189

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE ZTE Corporation

Related Links

www.zte.com.cn


CALGARY, AB, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ - PsiloTec Health Solutions Inc. ("Zylorion" or the "Company"), a mental health care and psychedelic therapy focused innovator, today provided an update on key additions to its executive leadership team that have recently taken place over the past quarter. "These executive appointments illustrate the ongoing excitement around the overall psychedelics space and the continued growth and development of our Company, and we are delighted to add such high caliber talent to our executive team to support our mission of enabling the millions of people around the world who are experiencing mental health challenges, to heal and to thrive", commented Dr. Peter Silverstone, CEO & Director.

Mr. Adam Darbellay, MPAcc, CPA CA has joined the Company as Chief Financial Officer, taking over for Ms. Louise Duchesne. Mr. Darbellay brings over 20-years of experience working with global large cap Forbes 2000 public companies, as well as working with private start-ups. Mr. Darbellay most recently served as Chief Financial Officer of a Canadian-based life sciences company focused on the research, development, and commercial sale of cannabinoid-based compounds. Prior to that, Mr. Darbellay worked with Nutrien (NYSE:NTR), the world's largest integrated producer and provider of agricultural inputs and services, leading the global finance transformation function. Mr. Darbellay brings deep leadership experience in corporate mergers and acquisitions, strategy and finance, and will oversee all financial affairs of the Company, including regulatory filings, financial planning and reporting, accounting, tax, treasury, human resources and investor relations. Mr. Darbellay holds a Bachelor of Commerce and a Masters of Professional Accounting from the University of Saskatchewan, and is a CPA CA.

Ms. Louise Duchesne, CPA CA has transitioned from the role as interim Chief Financial Officer and has been appointed to the position of Chief Risk Officer. In her new role, Ms. Duchesne will oversee all aspects of the Company's Enterprise Risk Management program working across the entire organization to ensure appropriate policies are implemented and adhered to, that controls and procedures are in place to support the development and execution of the Company's business strategy as it relates to, among other areas, clinical partnerships and programs, intellectual property and product development, product development, document management and control for contracts and agreements. Ms. Duchesne holds a Bachelor of Commerce from McGill University and a CPA CA designation.

Dr. Rutger Engels has joined the Company as Chief Scientific Officer. Dr. Engels has a 27-year background working in behavioral and mental health and addictions, and has deep expertise in understanding, predicting, and treating a variety of mental health conditions. Dr. Engels has held numerous senior leadership appointments including serving as the Vice-Dean Research and Director of Behavioral Science, Radboud University, Chairperson of the Executive Board at Trimbos Institute, the National Institute for Mental Health and Addictions, and Rector Magnificus, Erasmus University, Rotterdam. Dr. Engels has a PhD in Medical Sciences from the University of Maastricht, Netherlands, and brings significant experience in designing and leading clinical studies on digital mental health interventions. In the past fifteen years, Dr. Engels has led a series of randomized trials on digital mental health interventions in collaboration with leading academic and institutions and companies in North America. Dr. Engels will oversee all aspects of the Company's integrated therapy program development and training, as well as support our clinical studies. Dr. Engels is based out of Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Mr. Scott Clarke, LLB has been appointed as the Company's Corporate Secretary. Mr. Clarke is a senior partner with Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP, with over 24-years experience focused on mergers and acquisitions, power projects, corporate finance, private equity, and governance matters (including ESG). Mr. Clarke's diverse public and private company client base spans life sciences, technology, power, alternative energy, oil and gas services and exploration. Mr. Clarke is recognized as a leading lawyer in the Legal 500 Canada, Chambers Canada: Canada's Leading Lawyers for Business, the Best Lawyers in Canada, the Canadian Legal expert Directory, and Acritas Stars, and is also a member of the Securities Advisory Committee of the Alberta Securities Commission. Mr. Clarke will support all aspects of governance, securities and regulatory compliance, as well as advise on corporate transactions and general legal matters.

About Zylorion

Zylorion is a biopharmaceutical company engaged in the development and delivery of integrated mental health therapies to address psychological and neurological mental health conditions. Zylorion is focused on the research, development and commercialization of psychedelic-based compounds coupled with therapeutic treatment programs targeting a continuum of mental health conditions, such as MDD (major depressive disorder), TRD (treatment resistant depression), PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), general depression, anxiety disorders, and a number of addictive tendencies. Zylorion aims to leverage leading technologies to support the scalability and accessibility of its integrated therapy programs in its mission to enable those experiencing mental health challenges to thrive.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains statements that constitute "forward-looking information" (" forward-looking information ") within the meaning of the applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking information and are based on expectations, estimates and projections as at the date of this news release. Any statement that discusses predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking information.

SOURCE Zylorion
Madrid, Oct 26 : The cumulative number of Covid-19 cases in Spain passed the 5-million mark on Monday after the country's Ministry of Health confirmed 4,485 new cases.

The new cases brought the total number of confirmed cases since the start of the pandemic in the country to 5,002,217, Xinhua reported.

The country's COVID-19 death toll rose to 87,186 after 54 deaths were reported during the period, according to the ministry.

Also on Monday, Spanish health centres began to give a third COVID-19 vaccine dose to people aged 70 and over.

The latest Ministry of Health data showed that 78.5 percent of the population in Spain, or over 37.2 million people, have received two vaccine doses.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Lucknow, Oct 26 : Lucknow witnessed high drama around midnight on Monday when Kiran Gosavi, the private detective from Mumbai who made headlines with his selfie with Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan after his arrest by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), announced that he would surrender at Mandiaon police station 'any moment.' Kiran Gosavi, the Narcotics Control Bureau's 'independent witness' in the cruise ship drugs case, against whom a lookout notice is out, said he wanted to surrender before the Uttar Pradesh police as he felt 'threatened' in Maharashtra.

But the expected drama ended in anti-climax when Gosavi failed to turn up and Lucknow police commissioner DK Thakur said that Gosavi cannot surrender in the Lucknow 'because the Lucknow police station does not have the jurisdiction to take any action against him'.

An unverified audio clip circulated by sources close to Gosavi, indicated the policemen at a local station in Lucknow unceremoniously turned him down.

The clip was of a phone call where a man, purportedly Gosavi, is heard asking if it was the Madiaon police chowki. After confirming, he says "I want to come there. I am Kiran Gosavi. I want to surrender here.

"Why do you want to come here?" the policeman asks.

"This is the nearest police station for me at the moment," Gosavi says.

Once the policeman confirms that he indeed wanted to surrender, he says, "No, you can't surrender here. Try somewhere else." As the audio clip went viral, huge crowds, mainly media, started collecting at the Mandiaon police station and security was beefed up.

A number of officers were seen waiting outside the building.

Senior officials did not rule out the possibility of Gosavi deliberately talking about surrendering in Lucknow to deflect the focus of the police in Maharashtra.

It was only around midnight that the crowds dispersed when the police confirmed that there would be no surrender.

In a telephonic conversation with some news channels, earlier on Monday evening, Gosavi had said that he wished to surrender in Lucknow as he felt 'threatened' in Mumbai.

A private investigator, Gosavi was present during the cruise ship raid and later at the NCB office with Aryan Khan. His selfie and videos with Aryan Khan at both places indicated that he had unlimited access to the son of Shah Rukh Khan.

This fueled questions from Maharashtra's ruling alliance about the anti-drugs agency's investigation. Several leaders questioned why an 'independent witness' of the agency should be present at the raid and its office and take selfies with the high-profile accused.

A day ago, a man claiming to be Gosavi's personal bodyguard made allegations of bribery against him.

Prabhakar Sail, who is another witness in the case, said he heard Gosavi having a telephonic conversation about pay-offs with one Sam D'Souza.

Sail claimed he heard Gosavi say they should ask for a 'bomb Rs 25 crore' and then settle at Rs 18 crore, of which Rs 8 crore is for the NCB's zonal officer in charge of the investigation, Sameer Wankhede.
Washington, Oct 26 : US Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley has said that the efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal are "in a critical phase," reiterating the negotiation window to revive the deal will not be open forever.

"We're in a critical phase of the efforts to see whether we can revive the JCPOA," Malley told reporters on Monday during a press call, referring to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, Xinhua reported.

"We've had a hiatus of many months and the official reasons given by Iran for why we're in this hiatus are wearing very thin." Malley's comments followed his week-long trip to the Middle East and Europe over the Iran nuclear issue. US allies and partners shared "a deep and growing concern" about Iran's nuclear progress, he said.

According to Malley, diplomacy is still a preferred path to address the Iran nuclear issue, but the United States and allies would also have to consider alternative tools.

"We are always open to diplomatic arrangements with Iran, and we believe that this can only be resolved diplomatically. The question is whether the JCPOA can still be revived," he added.

The US and Iranian officials began indirect talks in Vienna this April to restore the 2015 nuclear agreement. The two sides still have significant differences after six rounds of negotiations, which have been stalled since June.

Malley stressed that the window for negotiations on a return to the JCPOA will not be open forever. "This is not a chronological clock. It's a technological clock. At some point, the JCPOA will have been so eroded because Iran would have made advances that cannot be reversed."
Panaji, Oct 26 : Goa may not be in a position to complete its target of 100 per cent coverage of the second dose of a Covid-19 vaccine by October 31, even as health officials in the state have planned a mammoth outreach programme to complete the deadline by November-end.

According to state immunisation medical officer Rajendra Borkar, 219 new sub-vaccination centres would be set up across the state on October 31 to facilitate mass administration of the second Covid dose.

"Now that we have completed the target of the first dose, we have reached 105 per cent, we are not worried about that first dose anymore now. Our focus is now on the second dose. We have covered 71 per cent as far as the second dose is concerned and we are doing fantastic, if you compare all India levels. All India it is at around 30 per cent.

"Our goal is to cover the second dose at least by November end. To achieve this target, we are planning a mega camp. We have 40 main vaccination centres, which are vaccinating on a regular basis. We will be going with 219 sub centres to grassroot levels," Borkar told reporters here.

Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had set October 31 as the deadline for 100 per cent coverage of the second Covid dose in the coastal state.

According to the state Health Ministry statistics, 2.06 lakh persons have taken the first dose in Goa, but have not turned up at vaccination centres for the second dose, even after the lapse of the mandatory 84-day gap between the two shots.

"Around 2,06,000 have taken the first dose, they have also completed 84 days, but they still have not taken the second dose," he said.

Borkar also said that the state government was concerned about the vaccination status of the three to four lakh floating population, which travels to Goa during the tourism season from October to May, as well as the possibility of schools re-opening in the state.

"In Goa, we have a typical situation, that we are dependent on tourism. We are also planning to start our schools. There is a possibility that those who have not had their second dose, may get infected and they may spread the infection," he said.

According to the Health Ministry figures, 2,359 persons out of the 2,563 persons who died during the second wave, had not even taken a single vaccine shot.

In all, 3,358 persons have died in Goa due to Covid-related complications.
Washington, Oct 26 : The US has suspended $700 million in economic aid to Sudan after the military forces arrested civilian leaders, including Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, and declared a coup in the North African nation.

"The US strongly condemns the actions of the Sudanese military forces. We firmly reject the dissolution of the civilian-led transitional government and its associated institutions and call for their immediate restoration," the State Department announced late Monday.

"The arrest of Prime Minister Hamdok and other civilian leaders is unacceptable. The military forces must ensure their safety and release them immediately. These actions have the potential to derail the country's transition to democracy and are a betrayal of Sudan's peaceful revolution." The Department went on to say that in the wake of these developments, "the US is immediately pausing the delivery of $700 million in emergency Economic Support Funds to Sudan, which were intended to support the country's democratic transition, while we evaluate next steps".

In response to the continued protests across Sudan against the coup, the State Department said "the US strongly supports the right of the Sudanese people to assemble peacefully in support of democracy".

"We are gravely concerned by reports that Sudanese security forces have used live ammunition against peaceful protesters. Security officials should immediately cease the use of violence against peaceful protesters. We also urge the restoration of Internet services," it added.

Following the arrest of Hamdok, members of the Transitional Sovereignty Council's civilian component, and several other Ministers earlier on Monday, internet services were suspended in capital Khartoum, while phone lines were also down.

The office of the Prime Minister said Hamdok and his wife were taken an unknown place.

The coup and a state of emergency was declared by Chairman of Sudan's Sovereign Council Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan on Monday. He also dissolved the transitional sovereign council, the government and relieved of all state Governors of their post.

Addressing the nation in a live broadcast, Al-Burhan said that the division among partners in the transitional government prompted the military intervention to prevent the country from chaos, Xinhua news agency.

He expressed commitment to the constitutional document but announced suspension of the items relating to the coalition with the Freedom and Change Alliance, the civilian component in the ruling coalition that accused Al-Burhan of carrying out a military coup.

Meanwhile, street demonstrations rejecting the military intervention were continuing in Khartoum, despite army retaliation.

According to a BBC report, at least three people have died and more than 80 others were injured.

Demonstrators have blocked roads with piles of bricks and burning tyres.

The city's airport is closed and international flights are suspended.

Besides the US, the UK, EU, UN and African Union, of which Sudan is a member, have also condemned the coup and demanded the immediate release of the civilian leaders.
Lucknow, Oct 26 : The Uttar Pradesh government has sounded an alert on Zika virus in the state and issued an advisory after the first case was detected in Kanpur over the weekend.

As per an official order issued by Ved Vrat Singh, Director General of the Department of Health and Family Welfare, all the chief medical officers in the state have been asked to keep a vigil on suspected cases while the laboratory at King George's Medical University has been roped in to conduct the tests.

The advisory calls for general preparedness to tackle Zika virus cases, following orders from the Union Health Ministry.

Singh has appealed to the people not to panic and adopt simple yet effective preventive measures to check the spread of the virus.

Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti and Ae. albopictus). These are the same mosquitoes that also spread dengue and chikungunya.

Zika virus is only contagious between people via sexual contact.

The CDC suggests that women are contagious for up to eight weeks, and men for up to six months, if they have had Zika virus symptoms.

Zika fever symptoms and signs include fever and chills, joint pain, skin rash, and red eyes.

Although Zika fever is mild, it can cause severe birth defects in unborn children.
Tashkent, Oct 26 : Uzbekistan's incumbent President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has been re-elected for a second term in office with 80.1 per cent of the votes cast in the October 24 election, the country's Central Election Commission (CEC) announced.

As soon as the election commission announced the results live on local TV channels on Monday, Mirziyoyev's party and supporters celebrated the victory, reports Xinhua news agency.

"I cannot find words to describe my gratitude to my dear people for their trust. The fact that over 80 per cent of people came to vote in the election shows our nation is not indifferent to the country's future," the 64-year-old Mirziyoyev said, thanking people for their trust and support.

According to the CEC, the election on Sunday recorded a historic turnout of 80 per cent of the country's eligible voters.

The CEC said that the election was held in accordance with international norms, domestic legislation, and in line with democratic principles, in an open and transparent manner.

Mirziyoyev was nominated by the ruling Uzbekistan Liberal Democratic Party, and during the election campaign, he promised to continue reforms to launch more industrial projects, provide jobs and raise living standards in the populous Central Asian nation.

Other candidates included Alisher Kadirov from the National Revival Democratic Party, Maksuda Varisova from the People's Democratic Party, Bahrom Abduhalimov from the Adolat (Justice) Social Democratic Party, and Narzullo Oblomurodov from the Ecological Party.
Deoria : , Oct 26 (IANS) A Class 11 girl committed suicide by hanging at her house in Deoria after she was allegedly blackmailed by her male classmate.

Police said the accused had clicked some objectionable photos of the minor girl and was threatening to upload them on social media.

About a week ago, the girl had told her family about it after which her father had informed school authorities. After this, the father was attacked by a group of boys.

When the matter was brought to the notice of the school principal, he warned the student of mending his ways else his name would be struck from the school.

A case of abetment to suicide against the girl's classmate has been registered.

Deoria Superintendent of Police (SP) Shripati Mishra said the victim's classmate has been sent to a juvenile home.

"We have recovered the mobile phone of the classmate which had some objectionable photos of the girl," said Mishra.

The matter is being further investigated, the SP said.
San Francisco, Oct 26 : Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has once again slammed Apple for its App Store policies, saying the iOS privacy changes are negatively affecting its business.

In an earnings call after posting robust Q3 results, Zuckerberg said late on Monday that the company did experience revenue headwinds this quarter.

"Apple's changes are not only negatively affecting our business, but millions of small businesses, and what is already a difficult time for them and the economy," he told the analysts.

Facebook has been fiercely critical of the iOS 14 changes since these were introduced some months ago.

Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook's Chief Operating Officer, said that the biggest impact to them has come from iOS 14 changes which advantaged Apple's own advertising business.

"We started to see that impact in Q2, but adoption on the consumer side ramped up by late June, so it hit critical mass in Q3. As a result, we've encountered 2 challenges," she said.

"One is that the accuracy of our ads targeting decreased, which increased the cost of driving outcomes for our advertisers. And the other is that measuring those outcomes became more difficult," Sandberg told the analysts, adding that on targeting, "we focused on improving campaign performance even with the increased limitations facing our industry".

The company said that to counter Apple, it is building commerce tools to help businesses reach more new customers, and get more incremental sales.

"Over the longer term, we're developing privacy enhancing technologies in collaboration with others across the industry to help minimise the amount of personal information we process, while still allowing us to show relevant ads," said Sandberg.
Dakshina Kannada : , Oct 26 (IANS) A case of sexual harassment filed by a law graduate student in Mangaluru city of Karnataka's Dakshina Kannada district took a new turn as activists and the victim suspect foul play in the probe by state police.

The victim and activists have questioned the police on its failure to arrest the accused, a senior advocate, even after more than a week of filing an FIR against him.

The victim has filed a case of sexual harassment against senior advocate K.S.N Rajesh Bhat. The police suspended two of its officials, including a female Sub-Inspector, for dereliction of duty in connection with the case and have arrested three persons.

Prasanna Ravi, a social activist, who is supporting the victim, said no action has been taken against the main accused in this case. The Police Commissioner has said a special team has been formed to investigate the case.

"It has come to our notice that the accused has applied for anticipatory bail in the case. Even then the police are not doing anything to arrest the accused," she added.

"The accused is absconding even after a week of filing a complaint. I have given an appeal to the Mangaluru Bar Council asking for their support. I request all of you to support me and the police to find the accused. I just want justice; I don't want anything else. I just want the accused to be arrested by the police," the victim said.

"The victim is a law student. If it is going to be so tough for her to deal with this case, imagine the plight of other victims. She is coming forward to speak as a law student. If she is not able to protect herself, how is she going to protect others and cooperate with investigating agencies," Activist Prasanna Ravi added.

The arrested persons have been released on bail. "The victim does not belong to the state and has come here only to study law. She should be protected. Even after a week, why was the accused not arrested yet," Ravi asked.

The accused advocate K.S.N Rajesh Bhat has been suspended from the membership of the Karnataka State Bar Council until further orders and he has been asked not to practice at the courts after the FIR was registered against him.

Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) authorities have directed the accused advocate not to continue as the ACB Special Public Prosecutor at Third Additional District and Sessions court.

Mangaluru Commissioner, N. Shashi Kumar had earlier said this is a serious case. Considering the sensitivity of the issue, to ensure transparency in the case he had appointed IPS officer Ranjith Bandaru as in-charge of the investigation. The accused will be arrested as per the due procedure. Investigation is on, he added.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Google-owned YouTube has warned creators that it will start demonetising kids channels on its platform that produce low-quality videos.

YouTube channels that primarily target young audiences are classified as "made for kids".

"These channels will need to deliver high-quality content and comply with kids-specific monetisation policies," said James Beser, Director of Product Management, Kids and Family at YouTube.

For example, channels that have predominantly low-quality kids content such as "heavily commercial or promotional" or "encouraging negative behaviours or attitudes" may be suspended from YouTube Partner Programme.

"And if an individual video violates these quality principles, it may see limited or no ads," Beser added in a blog post late on Monday.

Earlier in October, YouTube shared additional monetisation policies for channels that primarily create kids and family content on YouTube.

"Going forward, these principles will have not only an impact on recommendations and inclusion in YouTube Kids but also on monetisation," the company warned.

YouTube said in Q2 2021, it removed more than 1.8 million videos for violation of its child safety policies.

"We have reached out to potentially impacted creators in order to support them before these changes take effect starting next month," the company added.

"There is a vibrant community of kids and family content creators that produce high-quality content. And we want to make sure that we're rewarding these creators and helping them grow and succeed on YouTube," Beser said.

'YouTube Kids' is a separate app that is a filtered version of YouTube, has specific content policies and a much smaller set of channels and videos available.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 26 : The sister of Latvian national who was allegedly drugged, raped and then killed at the famed Kovalam tourist destination three years ago, has approached the Kerala High Court as the trial in the case is yet to begin.

The victim, her partner Andrew and Ilzie had arrived in Kerala for ayurvedic treatment at a facility in Thiruvananthapuram's outskirts when she went missing on March 14, 2018.

She was last seen hiring an auto-rickshaw to Kovalam. She was not carrying her passport or mobile phone with her when she went missing.

Even though the police launched a manhunt, it was on April 20, the victim's highly decomposed body was found in a marshy area near the famed Kovalam tourist destination. An autopsy pointed to strangulation.

Following the subsequent probe the police arrested two local youths, Umesh and Udayan, who are relatives and have been functioning as unregistered guides and do not have a clean track record.

Following the delay in the filing of the charge sheet, the two accused are out on bail and this has pained the family of the deceased.

The victim's sister, who has been knocking on all doors for a speedy trial, arrived in the state last week and finally approached the Kerala High Court, seeking a speedy trial.

"We are not going to get her (sister) back and the only thing we now look forward to is we want justice for her. She is not with us and hence there is none who will be speaking what about she underwent then," said the deeply distressed sister, who added that she will not return till her sister gets justice.
Kolkata, Oct 26 : A Unesco delegation visited Visva-Bharati to assess technical details on the basis of an application by the authorities to include the national university established by Rabindranath Tagore in the World Heritage Site list.

The seven-member team, comprising members of two advisory bodies including the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), which was supposed to visit Santiniketan between September 28 and October 3, arrived here on Monday and will stay for two days.

Representatives of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) also accompanied them.

Before visiting the traditional places of the university, the team had a meeting with Vice Chancellor Bidyut Chakraborty at the central office Later, the team visited the Visva-Bharati traditional places of worship including the Kanch Mandir Upsana Griha, Santiniketan Bari (the first building that housed Debendranath Tagore and his family after Bhubandanga was bought by him), Uttarayan complex, Kala Bhavana, Sangeet Bhavana and all other structures built by Rabindranth Tagore as part of his dream university.

Visva-Bharati officials accompanied the delegation here.

A nominated property is independently evaluated by two advisory bodies mandated by the World Heritage Convention: the ICOMOS and the IUCN. They provide the committee with evaluations of the cultural and natural sites nominated, respectively.

Earlier, IANS had reported that a delegation team from Unesco is likely to visit Santiniketan in October to assess the possibility of inclusion of this prestigious university of national repute into the World Heritage Site list.

This is the Union Culture Ministry's second appeal to the UN body to secure the status for Santiniketan.

The Ministry had in 2010 also appealed for the same.

The original application in 2010 had been pushed to the "tentative" list after a technical evaluation of the site by the ICOMOS.

It was then pointed out that development pressure on the campus had tampered with the site's heritage value.

The ASI with the help of the University prepared a fresh dossier and submitted it to Unesco. An ASI team, led by its Director General Vidya Vidyanathan, had camped at the university in January to prepare the report, finding answers to the questions that were raised the last time.

External heritage conservation experts were roped in to assist them.

Accordingly, renovation of various traditional buildings and invaluable sculptures scattered all over the university is underway and the central government sanctioned about Rs 3 crore for this purpose.

A total of 24 buildings and architectural renovations that have the potential to be collectively listed as World Heritage are going through entire renovation. The varsity authorities have also formed their own committee for this purpose.

"We are very excited. The place is historically important, and it deserves the honour. We hope that this time the Unesco World Heritage Committee makes their decision in favour of the university," the officials said.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : In another sensational disclosure, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) national spokesperson and Minister Nawab Malik on Tuesday said at least an amount of Rs 1,000-crore has been 'extorted' in Mumbai and Maldives from Bollywood personalities.

Pointing the needle against the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Zonal Director Sameer Wankhede, Malik released a 4-pager purported letter he received from a whistleblower within the agency.

The Minister said he received the letter which has been copied to Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, state Home Minister Dilip Walse-Patil, Director-General of Police Sanjay Pandey, Congress President Sonia Gandhi and MP Rahul Gandhi.

"My fight is not against the NCB... They have done a good job in the past 35 years... I am fighting against a person who has extorted money from people...My estimate is over Rs 1,000-crore. The NCB has already started a probe and they must look into the points raised in the 4-page letter," Malik demanded.

Reacting promptly to the purported letter, the NCB Deputy Director-General, South West Region Mutha Ashok Jain said: "I have seen the letter. We will take necessary action." Dismissing the charges by Wankhede and his family on the birth certificate which he revealed on Monday, Malik issued an "open challenge" to them to file any case or criminal defamation, he would face arrest and put the matter before the Courts.

Hitting back, a Bharatiya Janata Party activist Mohit (Kamboj) Bharatiya slammed Malik and said the 4-pager letter was a fake, even the affidavit submitted by a NCB 'Panch-witness' Prabhakar Sail was bogus and demanded the Minister's immediate resignation for misusing his ministerial status.

"The Minister has been lying since day one... Sail's affidavit was made at Malik's behest... All this is done to malign the NCB and the BJP. I fear for my life and I demand security. I am filing a defamation case against him today," Bharatiya told mediapersons.

Making another grave accusation, the Minister said that Wankhede has been illegally tapping the phones of two persons, one in Mumbai and another in Thane.

"I have their full details... and will disclose more at the appropriate time. How did the officer ask for the CDR details of my daughter Nilofer Malik from the Mumbai Police? Is she a criminal? The police have rejected Wankhede's demands," Malik said.

The Minister reiterated his charge that Wankhede has allegedly submitted a bogus caste certificate to get a central government job in a reserved category and vowed to bring out more dope on this.

"The BJP has been trying to portray it as a Hindu-Muslim fight... In my 45 years in public life, I have never played politics in the name of religion and the people know this well. But Wankhede has deprived a poor Dalit boy by grabbing his job in the reserved quota on the basis of fake documents," said Malik.

The Minister further said that since his first expose in early-October, many people have been coming to him with information on the NCB, including a witness who said that the agency made him sign 50 blank papers.

On the contents of the 4-pager, Malik said that it has alleged details of about 26 different cases in which people have been deliberately framed by the agency, and how money was extorted.

"I am forwarding it to the NCB Vigilance Committee for proper investigations and hope the truth will come out," he said.
Hyderabad, Oct 26 : Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) working president K.T. Rama Rao on Tuesday posted on Twitter an old video of Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the price hike of cooking gas to appeal to voters to vote against the BJP in Huzurabad by-election.

"Sometimes the best advice comes from unexpected places," tweeted Rama Rao with the video.

"Modi Ji says punish those who are responsible for LPG price hike. Let's spread the word," added KTR, as Rama Rao is popularly known.

The video clip is apparently from Modi's speech at an election rally before 2014 polls. While slamming the then Congress-led UPA government for rising fuel prices, Modi had appealed to the people to do 'namaskar' to gas cylinders before casting their votes.

KTR, also a minister for information technology, industries, urban development and municipal administration, tweeted along with hashtags HuzurabadWithTRS and Vote4Car.

The by-election to Huzurabad Assembly constituency is scheduled on October 30. It was necessitated by the resignation of Eatala Rajender, who also quit TRS after being dropped from the State Cabinet by Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao following allegations of land encroachment.

Rajender is contesting the by-election as candidate of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The TRS has made steep hikes in prices of petrol, diesel and LPG a key issue in the campaign. The party is displaying models of gas cylinders at key locations in the constituency to highlight the issue.

The gas cylinder is also being kept on stage at public meetings and roadshows of TRS leader and finance minister Harish Rao, who is leading the party campaign.

At every meeting, the TRS leader is pointing out how the price of a cooking gas cylinder has doubled to Rs 1,000 in the seven year-rule of BJP at the Centre. He is also telling voters that the Modi government will increase the price by another Rs 200 on November 2. "The Centre is waiting for by-elections to be over. It will further increase the price of LPG cylinder by Rs 200," he said at an election rally.
Patna, Oct 26 : In a case of honour killing, a man was shot dead in Bihar's east Champaran district, police sid The attackers also brutally assaulted the victim, Awanish Kumar Singh's father, mother and wife on Monday at their residence in Sarautha village. The mother is currently undergoing treatment in the hospital.

The deceased sustained a gunshot injury to his head and died on the spot.

According to the police, Awanish had eloped with his now wife Pooja Singh in 2019 and started working at a private company in Delhi. Later, they got married and started living in rent.

Last year in September, Awanish lost his job and decided to return home. In Sarautha, Awanish lived with his parents and wife.

"On Monday evening, Pooja's father, Manoranjan Singh, came to our house and threatened me of dire consequences. However, after abusing me, he returned home," said Awanish's father, Prem Chand Singh, in a statement to the police.

"Later, Manoranjan along with his family members entered from the back side of our house and shot Awanish on the head while he was asleep. He died on the spot. Hearing the gunshot, other family members woke up and rushed to Awanish. They were then brutally assaulted by Manoranjan and his family members," he added.

The accused and his family members fled from the spot before the arrival of the neighbours.

"The neighbours have informed us about the incident. It is a case of honour killing executed by family members of Pooja. We have recovered dead cartridges from the spot and are investigating the incident from all angles," said Anil Kumar, Station House Officer (SHO) of Jitna police station.

"We have registered an FIR under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) - attempt to murder, criminal conspiracy and arms at against Manoranjan Singh and others. Raids are on to nab them," Kumar added.
Washington, Oct 26 : Two people were killed and several others injured, including a police officer, in a shooting incident at a shopping mall in the US state of Idaho, local authorities said.

The authorities said that there was only one shooter, who is now in custody, reports Xinhua news agency.

The incident took place at the Boise Towne Square Mall in Boise city on Monday.

The shooter's motive was still unknown.

Idaho Governor Brad Little said that the state was ready to assist the Boise Police Department in the investigation.
Kathmandu, Oct 26 : The Nepal Police have arrested 11 Afghan nationals suspected of entering the illegally entering the Himalayan nation via India.

Officers from the Central Investigation Bureau of Nepal Police raided a house in Sinamangal, Kathmandu, on Monday and the arrested the 11 Afghan nationals comprising seven men and four women.

"Five of them entered Nepal on Thursday (October 21) while the others came some six weeks ago," Deputy Inspector General of Nepal Police Dhiraj Pratap Singh, who also heads the Central Investigation Bureau, told Xinhua news agency.

All the Afghan nationals have been transferred to the Department of Immigration for further action, he said, noting that Indian ration cards, which are used as a proof of identity, were found with six of the arrested persons.

Police suspected the Afghans prepared the ration cards to show they are Indian nationals as Nepalis and Indians do not need passports for cross-border travel.

The police are probing the authenticity of the cards, added Singh.

Meanwhile, some Afghans in Nepal have approached the UN Refugee Agency office in Kathmandu for protection.

"Five Afghans have approached us for protection. We are studying as to what sorts of support we can provide," Dipesh Das Shrestha from the office told Xinhua.

He noted that the Agency is checking whether the Afghans arrested by the police are among those who had sought its support.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday sought a separate report from the Uttar Pradesh Police on investigation in the second FIR in Lakhimpur Kheri violence in which four persons, including a journalist, were killed. The top court also ordered protection of witnesses in the case.

The widow of an accused-deceased told the top court that her husband's killers were roaming free, and no action has been taken against them.

Senior advocate Arun Bhardwaj, representing Ruby Devi, widow of Shyam Sundar, submitted before a bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana that there are three accused who are allegedly responsible for her husband's death and the police have not taken any action against them.

Bhardwaj said 'killers are roaming free and threatening his client'.

Another advocate representing the journalist, who was killed in the incident, also urged the court to direct the police to apprehend the accused involved.

The bench directed separate replies must be filed by Uttar Pradesh with respect to the counter-case of lynching of a person named Shyam Sundar, who was allegedly attacked after the car ploughed into farmers' protest, and also killing of journalist Raman Kashyap.

In Sundar's matter, Senior advocate Harish Salve, representing the Uttar Pradesh government, submitted he was an accused who was also killed in the incident and the police are also probing it along with the death of the journalist, who was in the car.

Chief Justice told Salve to file a separate reply in the matter. The bench noted there are two complainants before the court -- one by Ruby Devi and the other in connection with the death of a journalist. "State is directed to file separate replies in the case," said the bench, fixing the matter for further hearing on November 8.

The bench also comprising Justices Surya Kant and Hima Kohli also sought forensic labs, examining the digital evidence in the matter, to expedite the process of submitting evidence in the case.

The bench expressed surprise that out of a gathering of 4,000-5,000 people, only 23 people are eyewitnesses to the incident, where a car ploughed into the farmers' protest.

Salve, at the outset submitted that out of 68, thirty witnesses have recorded their statements under 164 CrPC. Of these, 23 are eyewitnesses. Chief Justice queried that in a case where there were hundreds of farmers in a rally, only 23 people were there? Salve replied that the government gave an advertisement and the people who saw the accused in the car are already there. "Digital media (large numbers) has been recovered. There are overlapping videos", he added.

Salve further contended that there was also a person who was conducting videography of the event, and the digital evidence would be sent to labs so that they can be admitted as evidence in the case.

On the aspect of few eyewitnesses in the matter, Justice Kant pointed out that mostly local people were there at the spot and after the incident most of them have been agitating for an inquiry. He told Salve that accessibility and identification of such persons in the vehicle should not be a major issue.

Salve replied 164 statements can be submitted to the top court in a sealed cover and added that 16 accused have been identified. The bench, in its order, said: "Regarding witness protection, we direct the witnesses to be provided protection by the state. We further direct that 164 statements... to be recorded expeditiously." The top court had registered a petition based on a letter by two lawyers seeking a probe by the CBI in the Lakhimpur Kheri violence.

A total of eight people, including four farmers and a local journalist, apart from the two BJP men and their driver, were killed in the incident. Farmers were allegedly mowed down by a car of Ashish Misra, son of Union Minister of State Ajay Misra Teni.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The digital transformation can improve health for all people around the world.

But this is only possible if digital technology is governed in the public interest rather than for private profit, and the health for all, values of democracy, equity, solidarity, inclusion, and human rights are put at the core of its design and use, according to a new Lancet and Financial Times Commission report on Governing Health Futures 2030: growing up in a digital world.

Digital technologies are transforming all areas of life and health, a trend that has been accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, but the benefits of these advances are not reaching everyone equally.

The report highlights how limited governance together with the accumulation of data and power by the world's big technology companies and governments for surveillance, are exacerbating health inequities, eroding trust, and compromising human rights.

It warns that following the current path of data-extractive, commercially-driven digital transformations, will fail to deliver health benefits to all. Instead, a radical new approach is needed that redirects digital technologies to advance universal health coverage ensuring the gains in digital health for all.

With access to quality health information and services increasingly reliant on digital technologies and data, the Commission also calls for digital access and digital literacy to be recognised as a key determinant of health, and to ensure that every person has safe and affordable access to the Internet by 2030.

The Lancet-FT Commission is the result of two years of work from 19 leading experts from 14 countries, with backgrounds in global health, clinical medicine, public health, mental health, digital media, ICT, social science, economics, and politics, as well as global consultations with youth groups.

"Digital technologies offer extraordinary potential to improve the health of all people around the world, reduce health inequities, close gender gaps, and protect the most vulnerable", says Co-Chair of the Commission, Professor Ilona Kickbusch from the Global Health Centre in Switzerland.

The Commission emphasises that digital transformations shape the health both directly and indirectly through a wide range of social, economic, commercial, and environmental factors that affect health.

According to the report, the pandemic has laid bare the extent to which the societies -- and their health -- depend on digital technologies to function and the power of large providers and platforms.

To make real health gains and mitigate potential harms, the Commission advocates widespread reform to increase public trust, rapidly strengthen the governance of digital technologies and health data, and to develop more equitable tools for health care.
Hyderabad, Oct 26 : Telugu director Krishna Vamsi, who wrapped up shooting for his upcoming directorial 'Rangamarthanda', has given a 'mega' update. As he starts dubbing for 'Rangamarthanda', he has roped in megastar Chiranjeevi to lend his voice.

Sharing his excitement about Chiranjeevi's voice-over, Krishna Vamsi wrote, "ThQ annyya for ur generosity n unconditional kindness ...one more crowned lightening on #rangamarthandas sky. THE MEGA VOICE", on his microblogging site. The director also shared a picture, which features Chiranjeevi in front of the mic, wrapping up his dubbing for 'Rangamarthanda'.

While Chiranjeevi had a minor surgery, it is a great gesture that he went all the way to lend his voice to Krishna Vamsi's prestigious project. Chiranjeevi has a great line-up of movies, that includes 'Acharya', which is all set for its release soon.

'Rangamarthanda' is Krishna Vamsi's upcoming directorial starring Ramya Krishna, Prakash Raj, Shivathmika, Adarsh Balakrishna, and Rahul Silpligunj in the lead roles. While the makers are trying to wrap up the post-production works as soon as possible, there is no clarification regarding the release date yet.

Earlier, there were talks that 'Rangamarthanda' would get a direct OTT release, but the makers came forward to clear things up. So, 'Rangamarthanda' is to see its theatrical release, and the makers are eyeing December to release this emotional, action drama.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Jakarta, Oct 26 : Indonesian President Joko Widodo has called on Southeast Asian countries to accelerate the implementation of a regional travel corridor.

"The ASEAN (the Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Travel Corridor Arrangement Framework which was initiated by Indonesia a year ago needs to be implemented immediately," the President said during his speech at the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit.

At the forum, he emphasized that the establishment of the travel corridor within the ASEAN region would run the mobility of communities among member nations, which have been plagued by restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

He suggested that travel restrictions be reduced as the number of Covid-19 cases in ASEAN region is declining.

"ASEAN's economic recovery must be accelerated by reactivating safe travels, including safe tourism," Widodo added.

Tourism is one of the key areas of ASEAN's cooperation since the early establishment of the Association.
Colombo, Oct 26 : Primary schools across Sri Lanka have reopened after being shut for months due to a rapid spread of Covid-19, officials said here.

Students from primary one to five returned to their classes on Monday as the Education Ministry said that all health precautions had been taken to ensure the safety of the children, reports Xinhua news agency.

Parents were seen taking their children to school, wearing face masks, while teachers stood at the entrance of each school checking temperatures and allowing children to enter the premises only after washing their hands.

Officials from the Ministry told Xinhua that all schools had been informed to place the desks of the children one meter apart and avoid direct interaction with one another.

Schools were closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic late last year as the country faced three waves of the virus.

Health authorities said the number of infected had reduced in recent weeks but urged people to remain cautious and practice all health guidelines.

The country has to date recorded 536,084 confirmed cases since March last year and a total of 13,611 deaths.
London, Oct 26 : Getting Covid infection increases the risk of rare neurological complications in people more than the vaccines, according to a new study.

The study led by researchers from the University of Oxford analysed the healthcare records of more than 32 million people in England.

Their findings, published in Nature Medicine, showed that Covid infection is associated with a greater risk of rare neurological complications such as acute CNS demyelinating events, encephalitis meningitis and myelitis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, Bell's palsy, myasthenic disorders, hemorrhagic stroke and subarachnoid hemorrhage. The increased risk was found, especially, in the first two weeks after testing positive for SARS-CoV-2.

Among people who received AstraZeneca's Covid vaccine, the team found an increased risk of hospital admission for Guillain-Barre syndrome (15-21 days and 22-28 days), Bell's palsy (15-21 days) and myasthenic disorders (15-21 days).

There were 38 excess cases of Guillain-Barre syndrome per 10 million people given the AstraZeneca vaccine, compared to 145 cases per 10 million after testing positive for Covid-19. However, the risk was not found among those who received the Pfizer shot, the study showed.

People who got Pfizer's Covid jab were at an increased risk of hospital admission for hemorrhagic stroke (1-7 days and 15-21 days). The risk was observed 28 days after vaccination with the Pfizer shot, at an estimated 60 extra cases per 10 people. However it was not found among those who received the AstraZeneca shot.

Further, the team also found that "Guillain-Barre syndrome and Bell's palsy co-occur in those who received the AstraZeneca vaccine".

"We found that the risk of neurological complications from infection was substantially higher than the risk of adverse events from vaccinations in our population," said Julia Hippisley-Cox, from Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, and other researchers in the study.

"Clearly, neurological complications from vaccination and infection reported in this study are rare. However, these rare complications can cause lifelong disability requiring long-term care." The findings were replicated using an independent national cohort of more than 3 million people from Scotland. It provided strong support for the association between AstraZeneca vaccine and Guillain-Barre syndrome, but not for Pfizer and hemorrhagic stroke.

The "results provide timely and valuable information that can help to inform clinical decision making, including facilitating earlier diagnosis, as well as resource allocation for health-care provision", the researchers wrote in the study.

The authors of the study also acknowledged limitations of the study such as only risks associated with the first vaccine dose were examined, and only hospital admissions and mortality were included in the examined healthcare data, so patients with milder neurological disease may not have been included.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
New Delhi, Oct 26 : After addressing a rally at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's constituency Varanasi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra will address a rally on October 31 in Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's home turf, Gorakhpur.

The rally venue is Champa Devi Park, Congress spokesperson Akhilesh Pratap Singh said, adding that "the Congress workers are on toes day and night to make this rally a grand success." The Congress leader said the party is fighting from the streets and raking up every issue of the people in the state.

The venue itself is chosen to show that the Congress is ready to take on BJP in the state. The rally comes after the Congress announced 40 per cent reservation to women in tickets and also declared seven resolutions to be part of its manifesto.

Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on October 10 had kicked off her party's campaign for the upcoming Uttar Pradesh Assembly elections by mounting a blistering attack on the ruling BJP.

Addressing the mammoth rally in Varanasi, Priyanka took on the Centre and State governments on the issue of farmers and injustice to the poor.

"In the past two years, I have been working in UP. Two years ago, 13 adivasis were killed in a land dispute in Sonbhadra. Some leaders of the ruling BJP were involved and the people said that they had no hope for justice. I went there and each of the victims' families said that they wanted justice," she said.

Priyanka said that then came the pandemic and we saw people dying without oxygen, without medicines. People had hoped that the government would help but no help came and so many died in this hope.

"After this, Hathras happened and the government shielded the accused and there was no justice for the victim's family. The same has happened in Lakhimpur Kheri where farmers were mowed down by a minister's son and the government is shielding the accused," she said.
Bengaluru, Oct 26 : Kannada film producer Soundarya Jagadeesh's son and actor Snehith, his wife Rekha and others have moved an anticipatory bail petition at a local court in Bengaluru on Tuesday fearing arrest in connection with an assault and stripping case involving a maid.

A 34-year-old domestic help has filed a complaint with the Mahalakshmi Layout Police Station against the eight accused, who include Snehith and Rekha, alleging that the accused roughed her up and stripped her. She has also alleged that the accused had assaulted her mother.

The incident took place on Saturday evening when the victim was working at the home of Jagadeesh. She was living in the outhouse of the house opposite the Jagadeesh home. The victim had asked Snehith and his friends to move as she was sweeping the house, but the accused had allegedly abused her.

Later, according to the complaint, they barged into the outhouse with bouncers, attacked her and tried to strip her.

Jagadeesh has stated that the quarrel was between the maid and his family had intervened to pacify them. The complainant has been quarreling over petty matters for two years, Jagadeesh added.

The case seems to have taken a serious turn with the Bengaluru Police Commissioner Kamal Pant expressing his displeasure over police inaction in the case. He has directed the officers to initiate action against the accused no matter how influential they are, for the case has been registered under Section 354 of the IPC (assault or use of criminal force on any woman, intending to outrage or knowing it to be likely that he will thereby outrage her modesty).

The police have issued a notice to the accused persons to appear for the inquiry. The policemen also visited the residence of Jagadeesh. The sleuths have also searched the premises of a pub owned by Jagadeesh. Further investigations are on.

Jagadeesh has produced popular movies such as 'Appu and Pappu', 'Mast Maja Maadi', 'Snehitaru' and 'Ramleela'. His son Snehith has played a major role in 'Appu and Pappu'.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has said that the Taliban's denial to cooperate with the US to contain terror groups like the Al Qaeda is a war announcement against America, the media reported on Tuesday.

Speaking to Fox News, the Senator from South Carolina said: "Afghanistan is like a freefall. Al Qaeda is flourishing there, IS (Islamic State) is getting stronger," Khaama Press reported.

He also accused the Taliban of policing Al Qaeda.

Graham called Afghanistan the biggest national security threat in the near term and its humanitarian situation as te largest disaster on the planet which is getting worse.

Terming Joe Biden as "the most incompetent President", the Senator said that his plans on Afghanistan did not work and if there is someone to blame for the looming crisis in the war-torn nation, then "Biden should look in the mirror".

"President Joe Biden turned down military advice. They don't know if there is 350 or 700 American left behind but we do know that there are thousands of Afghans who fought along our side that have been left behind," Graham added.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Congress President Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday underlined the need for discipline and unity to strengthen the party to fight the diabolical agenda of the RSS.

Addressing top party leaders ahead of the Assembly elections scheduled for early next year, she asked them to shun personal ambition to fight for a common cause.

In her opening statement, Gandhi said: "I would like to re-emphasise the paramount need for discipline and unity. What should matter to each and every one of us is the strengthening of the organisation. This must override personal ambitions. In this lies both collective and individual success." The message was apparently aimed at the "sulking" leaders who have been demanding a complete overhaul of the party.

The Congress President asked the top leaders to take the membership drive and party ideology to the grassroots level.

"Young men and women across the nation seek a movement to give voice to their aspirations. It is our duty to provide them with a platform, as we have done for generations past," she said.

For this, she asked the top leaders to ensure the proper printing and distribution of forms for every ward and village, identify and assign Congress leaders and office-bearers, the task of going house to house, to enrol members in a transparent fashion.

Emphasising on the need for training of workers to fight the BJP, Gandhi said training programmes for the workers are an absolute necessity.

"The fight to defend our democracy, our Constitution and the Congress Party's ideology begins with being fully prepared to identify and counter false propaganda," she said.

Exhorting the leaders to fight the diabolical campaign of BJP/RSS ideologically, she said: "We must do so with conviction and expose their lies before the people if we are to win this battle." She said that the Congress' agenda does not percolate down to the grassroots at the block and district level which needs to be worked on. "There are policy issues on which I find a lack of clarity and cohesion even amongst our state-level leaders." Gandhi asked the leaders to train the workers to take on the unceasing onslaught of "malicious disinformation campaigns" at the behest of the BJP/RSS, while upholding and projecting the core Congress ideology.

She also said that five states are going to Assembly polls in the coming months. Congress party workers and leaders in these states are gearing up to take on these battles.

"Our campaign must be founded upon concrete policies and programmes emanating from widespread discussions with all sections of society." The Congresss chief asked the cadres to redouble the "fight for the victims of this government's worst excesses: our farmers and farm labourers, our youth fighting for jobs and opportunities, small and medium scale businesses, our brothers, our sisters with particular focus on the deprived".

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A special NIA court in Delhi has sentenced two Hizbul Mujahideen operatives to 12 years and two others to 10 years of rigorous imprisonment in the Jammu Kashmir Affectees Relief Trust (JKART) case.

As per the case, JKART, a militant outfit under the garb of an NGO, was getting funds from neighbouring countries to carry out terrorist activities in India.

It was actively involved in furthering the terrorist activities in the country, according to the probe agency that registered a case in this regard on October 25, 2011.

The funds were also used for families of dead Hizbul terrorists in the Union Territory, it said.

The Special Court has sentenced the four accused persons under Sections 120B IPC, 121A IPC & Section 17,18,18A, 18B, 20,38 & 40 Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.

Of the four, Mohammad Shafi Shah and Muzaffar Ahmad Dar were sentenced to 12 years and fined Rs 15,000 each, while Talib Lali and Mushtaq Ahmad Lone were sentenced to 10 years and fined Rs 10,000 each.

After investigation, a total of 12 accused were chargesheeted in this case.

Four have been convicted and sentenced and the remaining eight accused are active cadres of Hizbul who are absconding and currently based in Pakistan, the NIA said.
Tehran, Oct 26 : Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Political Affairs Ali Bagheri announced that he will meet European Union diplomat Enrique Mora on Wednesday in Brussels.

"I will meet the Joint Commission coordinator in Brussels on Wednesday to continue our talks on result-oriented negotiations," Bagheri tweeted.

Bagheri met Mora, deputy secretary-general and political director of the European External Action Service, in Tehran on October 14.

Iran, Bagheri wrote, is "determined to engage in talks that remove unlawful and cruel sanctions in a full and effective manner".

Six rounds of talks aimed at reviving the 2015 international agreement on a strict monitoring of Iran's nuclear program and the lifting of sanctions on Iran were held in Vienna between April and July this year, but were interrupted by Iran's presidential election.

Bagheri added that Tehran expects the negotiations will "secure the normalisation of Iran's trade and economic relations, and provide credible guarantees of no further reneging" on the 2015 deal, formally known as Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

The US unilaterally withdrew from the deal in May 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Iran under former President Donald Trump.

During recent weeks, Western governments have insistently demanded Iran to resume the Vienna talks, while Iran responded that president Ebrahim Raisi's administration, in charge since late August, needed some time to precise its approach to the negotiations.

One year after Trump terminated the US participation in the JCPOA and reimposed sanctions, Iran started gradually reducing its observation of the 2015 commitments and upgrading its nuclear program.
Tel Aviv, Oct 26 : Israel has lifted an official travel warning for trips to Morocco which has been in effect for the past 10 years.

"It has been decided to cancel the travel warning for Morocco that has been in place for over a decade," Prime Minister Naftali Bennett's office said in a statement.

The move came following a recommendation by the National Security Council to cancel the official warning, reports Xinhua news agency.

"This decision was made in light of an assessment of the situation according to which the estimated threat level in Morocco has declined," the office said.

However, the office recommended Israelis to "continue showing increased alert" while travelling in Morocco.

The shift came as ties between the two counties have been warming up in the wake of the signing of the US-brokered normalization deal in December 2020.
Bhopal, Oct 26 : Karan Morwal, the son of a Congress MLA from Madhya Pradesh, who was absconding for over six months after a woman lodged a rape case against him, was arrested on Tuesday, police said.

He was arrested from a village in Ujjain, said a senior police official in Indore.

Based on an information received about his whereabouts, a police team cornered Karan Morwal in the village.

"We were informed that he (Karan) is moving in a white car and based on information we put barricades on a particular road and started checking. He was trying to escape, but the police were alert and arrested him," said Jyoti Sharma, a senior police official.

Madhya Police had recently increased the reward against him from Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000. Karan Morwal has been evading arrest for the last six months.

On October 20, Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra had directed state police to arrest Karan Morwal as soon as possible. He had also asked his father Murli Morwal to take him to the police station within two days.

Karan has been on run after a 23-year-old girl lodged a police complaint on April 2 this year.

Murli Morwal is the Congress MLA from Badnagar Assembly seat.

In her complaint, the woman had alleged that she was raped by the MLA's son on the pretext of marriage.
Beirut, Oct 26 : A top UN official has urged the ebanese Armed Forces and the Israeli Defense Forces to respect the sanctity of the Blue Line, a border demarcation between the two nations published by the world body in 2000, in furtherance of peace and stability.

The remarks by Stefano Del Col, chief of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), came during a celebration held at the mission's headquarters in Naqoura on the occasion of the UN Day, Xinhua news agency reported.

"For over a decade now, the iconic blue barrels have helped avoid incidents that could become flashpoints for misunderstanding and conflict," Del Col said in a statement.

"By setting aside differences to engage constructively on resolving contentions, marking the remaining parts of the Blue Line and avoiding unilateral action, we can avoid this risk," he added.

Del Col stressed the importance of peacekeeping for creating a space in which political and diplomatic solutions can take root, while working independently and impartially.

"We have to redouble our efforts to create space for a political and diplomatic solution, and a permanent ceasefire between Lebanon and Israel," he said, adding that "in the meantime, and as a step in that direction, we should firm up the Blue Line arrangement as the essential de-confliction tool".

Del Col praised the dedication of peacekeepers and the commitment of the parties who contributed to 15 years of relative stability on the borders.
Bhopal, Oct 26 : The Madhya Pradesh government has launched a unique initiative to ensure cleanliness on a daily basis in rural areas of state capital Bhopal. Under this campaign the local people are being rewarded for using toilets and properly disposing of waste.

TVs and mobile phones are being given as rewards to the local people who have done commendable work ensuring cleanliness at their houses and nearby surroundings.

This initiative to maintain cleanliness was undertaken in Bairasia tehsil (block). A lucky draw was organised by the Damila Cleanliness Committee in which the cleanest toilets from all villages of this gram panchayat were selected, and the families were rewarded by means of a lucky draw.

A colour TV was given to Madhav Singh of Kanera village who bagged the first prize, a mobile phone to Inder Singh of Kadhaiya village who got the second prize, a torch to farmer Narendra Singh of Damila village for third prize, wall clock as fourth prize to Jaiendra Singh of Jamila village, the fifth prize as a fibre chair which was given to Badrilal of Ganyari village.

As many as 71 best participants were included by the Damila gram panchayat during this cleanliness felicitation event. The physical verification of the cleanliness was done by the Cleanliness Committee of the village panchayat.
Ankara, Oct 26 : Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has stepped back from his threat to declare the Ambassadors of 10 countries, including the US, Germany and France, as "persona non grata" after they made a joint statement for the release of a jailed businessman.

Speaking after a cabinet meeting, Erdogan welcomed a new statement by several Western embassies in Ankara, which noted that they abide by a diplomatic convention that stipulates not to interfere in a host country's internal affairs, reports Xinhua news agency.

"Our intention is never to cause a crisis but to protect our honour, our pride, our sovereign rights. The new statement shows they have taken a step back from the slander against our country. They will be more careful now," President said.

"It is the duty of the head of state to give the necessary response to this disrespect towards our judicial members," he stated.

The US and several other embassies on Monday issued similar statements, saying they respected a UN convention that required diplomats not to interfere in the host country's domestic affairs.

The diplomatic crises erupted last week after the embassies of the US, Germany, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway and Sweden in Ankara made a joint statement on October 18 for the release of Osman Kavala.

Erdogan on October 21 threatened to expel the ambassadors of these 10 countries on the grounds that they interfere with Turkey's judiciary.

Kavala was acquitted in 2020 of charges related to nationwide Gezi protests in 2013.

But his ruling was overturned and was combined with a probe into a coup attempt in 2016 on the accusation of spying.
Lucknow, Oct 26 : In an attempt to assuage the feelings of farmers who have been on the warpath since the past one year over three farm laws, the Yogi Adityanath government in Uttar Pradesh has decided to observe the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister late Chaudhary Charan Singh as 'Kisan Samman Diwas'.

The birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh is on December 23. This will be the first time that the event will be held on a large-scale.

According to the government spokesman, 'Kisan Samman Diwas' will be celebrated at the state, district and development block level.

The main event will be organised in Lucknow and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his cabinet colleagues will be present on the occasion.

The state agriculture director has been designated as the nodal officer for all the programmes which will be organised on the occasion.

Under 'Mission Shakti', women farmers who have done remarkable work in agriculture and the allied sectors will also be rewarded at the state and district levels.

All agriculture universities will organise seminars and exhibitions at all Krishi Vigyan Kendras.

For excellent work at the state level, three awards will be distributed under the category of organic farming / natural farming and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPO).

Three beneficiaries under the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF), three scientists of Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) and three officers of the district doing important work for stubble management will also be honoured by the state government.

Agriculture and allied departments like -- Cooperative, horticulture, fisheries, milk development, sericulture, and sugarcane -- have been asked to ensure active participation in the Kisan Samman Diwas event and development seminars.
Bengaluru, Oct 26 : Seven people in Karnataka have been found to be infected with the new 'AY 4.2' Covid-19 variant, triggering fear of a possible third wave of the pandemic in the state.

The new variant is causing havoc in the UK, Russia and China. As the Covid restrictions have been eased in the state following sharp reduction in fresh cases, authorities are now preparing an action plan to prevent the spread of the new variant.

Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai on Tuesday said he has already discussed about the new Covid strain with the state Health Minister.

"I have been instructed to initiate strict measures to contain the virus," he added.

Karnataka Education Minister, B.C. Nagesh has said there is no difference between the new variant of Covid-19 and the older one and that there is no need to panic. The state resumed physical classes for primary school children on Monday.

The swab samples which were collected in July by authorities have tested positive for AY 4.2 strain through genomic sequencing.

Among the seven cases, three are from Bengaluru and four others belong to different districts of the state.

Without taking any chances, the authorities have already started tracking down the infected persons. A team will visit their houses to conduct Covid tests on them and their primary and secondary contacts.

The new strain is said to be highly transmissible, but fatal.

Experts opined that climate and immunity of the people in Russia, the UK and China as compared to Indians are different. But India with 130 crore population can't allow the infection to spread as it may create disastrous effects and will lead to further mutations of Covid-19.

Meanwhile, seven districts in the state have vaccinated 50 per cent of the target population with a second Covid dose.

As many as 68 per cent of people have been administered with a second dose in Bengaluru Urban, followed by Ramanagar (54 per cent), Kolar (51 per cent) and Udupi, Kodagu and Chikkaballapur (50 per cent).

The experts have said vaccination is the most effective deterrent against the new variants and people who have received only one dose remain vulnerable to the virus.

Maintaining social distancing and wearing masks along with vaccination is the need of the hour. If people neglect this, they will be in danger, they added.

The Karnataka government has relaxed most of the stringent rules of Covid restrictions and life is back to normalcy in the state.

Huge crowds can be seen in malls, theatres and other public places.

Latest updates on Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Mumbai, Oct 26 : Once again, espionage thriller series 'Special Ops' has sent the audience spiralling into a frenzy with the release of its prequel's trailer. Titled, 'Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story', the prequel has garnered the audience's attention for its picturesque locations in the trailer.

Locations add a lot of value to the universe of a film or a web series, as they bring alive the story and its characters. Talking about finalizing the right locations, director Neeraj Pandey shares, "A universe like 'Special Ops' demands a scale and visual appeal to bring it to life. Since the narrative spans across different time zones and geographies, locations play a key role in the overall storytelling." The new season makes good use of international locations as the director says, "International locations like Mauritius and Ukraine not only add a visual appeal but are also extremely key to the script." The new season traces the journey of the titular character played by actor Kay Kay Menon. It documents a stout character arc of Himmat Singh; a R&AW agent, as he goes from the nation's greatest threat to the nation's greatest spy. He singlehandedly tries to battle the odds of a system that is riddled with politics, bureaucracy and vested interests.

Shot over the schedule of 30 days, 'Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story' has been directed by maestro Neeraj Pandey and Shivam Nair. The show will take the audiences back in time to uncover the truth behind the making of Himmat Singh backed by its compelling narrative and phenomenal performances.

Starring Kay Kay Menon, Aftab Shivdasani, Gautami Kapoor, Vinay Pathak, Parmeet Sethi, KP Mukherjee, Aishwarya Sushmita, Maria Ryaboshapka, Shiv Jyoti Rajput, Vijay Vikram Singh, Santanu Ghatak, 'Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story' is set to stream on Disney+ Hotstar from November 12.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Srinagar, Oct 26 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah has said that the Mata Kheer Bhawani temple shrine in Kashmir gives inspiration to every Indian.

On the conclusion of his 4-day long visit to J&K, Shah tweeted on Monday in Kashmiri language using Devanagari script.

He said, "I had the opportunity to pay obeisance at the Mata Kheer Bhawani temple shrine which is an inspiration not only for the people of Kashmir, but the entire country.

"For the entire country the Mata Kheer Bhawani shrine in Kashmir is the biggest source of faith that inspires the entire country.

"This sacred place has tremendous power. This becomes clear once you visit the shrine".

Along with the J&K Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha, Amit Shah paid obeisance at the Mata Kheer Bhawani temple shrine on Monday.

The temple shrine of Mata Ragnya is situated inside a spring in Tullamulla town of Ganderbal district, 24 kms from Srinagar city.

The deity is regarded as the patron deity by local Kashmiri Pandits.

Despite their exodus from the Valley in early 1990s due to insurgent violence, hundreds of migrant Pandits come to Tullamulla every year to keep their tryst with the Goddess on the annual festival.

-- The story has been published from a wire feed without any modifications to the text
Seoul, Oct 26 : South Korean President Moon Jae-in held a meeting Lee Jae-myung, presidential nominee of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), on Tuesday in a move that could help solidify the latter's position after a bitter primary.

The tea meeting at Cheong Wa Dae came 16 days after Lee was nominated as the DP's presidential candidate on October 10. It also came a day after Lee announced his resignation as Gyeonggi Province Governor to focus on the presidential election scheduled for March 9, 2022, reports Yonhap News Agency.

Political parties are closely watching the meeting as to whether Moon and Lee will discuss sensitive issues like the corruption scandal surrounding a land development project undertaken in the city of Seongnam when Lee was its mayor.

The opposition party accuses Lee of wrongdoing and is calling for an independent counsel investigation.

Presidential officials said, however, that the two are unlikely to discuss any political or election issues because the president is required to remain politically neutral ahead of elections regardless of party affiliation.

Tuesday's meeting with Moon is expected to help Lee gain united support from the ruling party as the presidential nominee seeks to form an integrated team for his campaign in the wake of intense competition during the primary.

Lee's campaign hopes to use the series of symbolic steps as a springboard to launch the nominee's election committee before the main opposition People Power Party picks its standard-bearer on November 5.

Lee, however, continues to be dogged by questions about his possible involvement in the snowballing corruption scandal surrounding an apartment development project conducted in Seongnam in 2015 when he was the city's mayor.

Lee, a vocal supporter of a universal basic income and reconciliation with North Korea, was nominated as the ruling party's presidential candidate on October 10.

Moon's single five-year term is to end in May next year and by law, he cannot seek re-election.
Tokyo, Oct 26 : Japan has successfully launched a new navigation satellite into orbit that will replace its decade-old navigation satellite.

The satellite, QZS-1R, was launched onboard H-2A rocket that lifted off from the Tanegashima Space Center at 10.19 p.m. on Monday night, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries said in a statement.

The company builds and operates H-2A rockets the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).

QZS-1R is a replacement for Quasi-Zenith Satellite System 1 satellite first launched in 2010.

"It was really beautiful launch," the company said in a tweet after a successful lift-off.

"H-IIA F44 flight proceeded nominally. Approximately 28 minutes 6 seconds after launch, as planned, the payload separated from the launch vehicle," the statement said.

The official QZSS website lists four satellites in the constellation: QZS-1, QZS-2, QZS-3 and QZS-4, Space.com reported.

The QZSS constellation will eventually consist of a total of seven satellites that fly in an orbit passing through a near-zenith (or directly overhead) above Japan, and QZS-R1 is meant to share nearly the same transmission signals as recent GPS satellites, according to JAXA.

It is specially optimised for mountainous and urban regions in Japan, JAXA said.

Mitsubishi's H-2A 202 rocket launch system has been operational since 2003 and has sent satellites to locations such as Venus (Akatsuki) and Mars (Emirates Mars Mission).

The latest H2-A rocket launch is the first since November 29, 2020, when Japan launched an advanced relay satellite with laser communications tech into orbit, the report said.
Melbourne, Oct 26 : The government of Australia's Victoria state announced on Tuesday new public health laws to replace emergency powers which were put into place at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Under the new laws, the state's chief health officer would no longer have the final say on Victoria's public orders, reports Xinhua news agency.

Furthermore, the laws would introduce a tiered system for fines to those in breach of public health orders to reduce the burden on disadvantaged citizens.

"We have learned over the course of the past 21 months that these powers impact on all sorts of aspects of our community and our well-being and our economy and our mental health and business and community," the state's Health Minister Martin Foley said.

Victoria exited its sixth lockdown on October 22 as it reached a full vaccination rate of 70 per cent.

In the last 24 hours, Victoria recorded 1,510 new locally acquired cases.

However, the number of active cases dropped to 24,715 on Tuesday from 24,831 reported on Monday.

The state also recorded four additional fatalities in the same period, bringing the total death toll to 234.

Currently 75 per cent of the state's adult population have been fully vaccinated.

Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews called for citizens to come forward and receive their second dose of the vaccine.

He noted that 87 per cent of people in hospital, and 96 per cent of the people in intensive care in the state had not been fully vaccinated.
Seoul, Oct 26 : North Korea on Tuesday rebuked the UN special rapporteur on its human rights situation for "distorting our reality" and acting "at the urging of the US" as the country responded to his recent criticism of the regime.

In the remarks carried by the Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency, the spokesperson for the Korea Association for Human Rights Studies berated Tomas Ojea Quintana for having accused the North of rights violations during a recent UN General Assembly session.

"Recently, so-called 'special rapporteur' on the human rights situation in the DPRK has maliciously slandered our state at the United Nations, reeling off reckless remarks such as 'systematic human rights violation, oppression of freedom of expression'," the spokesman said.

DPRK stands for the North's official name, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Yonhap News Agency reported.

"The 'special rapporteur,' not being content with distorting our reality, has pointed a finger at our 'people's livelihood' and viciously picked on the most realistic and appropriate anti-epidemic measures taken by our state for our own specific need," the spokesperson added.

The official also raised suspicion that the remarks by the special rapporteur could be a "scheme worked out at the urging of the US".

In addition, the spokesperson requested the UN take an immediate step to create a new special rapporteur post mandated to oversee the human rights situation in the US, which the official claims is suffering from "chronic human rights complications".
Patna, Oct 26 : Following a dispute with his wife, a man allegedly killed his minor son and daughter and later committed suicide in Bihar's Muzaffarpur district, a police official said on Tuesday.

The deceased has been identified as Dipak Rai, who hails from Bhelwa village. His body was found hanging from the ceiling fan and his two children -- Priyanshu and Vani -- lying dead on the bed.

The deceased has left a suicide note and recorded a video message on his mobile phone wherein he cited the reason behind taking the extreme step.

Dipak's relations soured with his wife as the latter reportedly had illicit relation with a man in her own village. He visited the Kamtaul village in Darbhanga district after his wife and her family members called him to settle the matter.

"When I reached my wife's house in Kamtaul village in Darbhanga district, she and her family members humiliated me before the local police officials. They asked me to send our children to her custody," Dipak said in the video clip and the suicide note.

"I returned home to Bhelwa village on Monday evening. After having dinner, the children went to sleep. I have suffocated them using a pillow and will hang myself from a ceiling fan," he added in his suicide note.

"I have sour relations with my wife. She has an illicit relationship with another person of her village in Darbhanga. She is responsible for forcing me to take the extreme step," Dipak said.

"The incident came to light on Tuesday morning when Dipak did not come out of his house. His neighbours enquired about it and informed us. We reached the spot and broke the door open in presence of the local people. We saw three bodies in a single room. Two children were lying on the bed and Dipak was hanging from a ceiling fan," said an official of Gaighat police station who is an investigating officer in the case.

"We have recovered the bodies and sent them for post-mortem. Further action has been initiated on the basis of a suicide note and a dying video statement of the deceased," he added.
Kuala Lumpur, Oct 26 : Malaysia will be aggressively pursuing its ambition to host either the Asian Games or the Commonwealth Games in the next 10-15 years and the Olympic Council of Malaysia (OCM) vice-president Dato' Shahrul Zaman Yahya has said that "discussions are underway".

The next year's Asian Games have been awarded to Hangzhou in China, while Birmingham is the host city for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Malaysia's capital Kuala Lumpur had last hosted the CWG, in 1998.

"There is certainly serious talk about us hosting a big Games in the next 10-15 years," Yahya was quoted as saying by insidethegames.biz.

"Hosting Games is not a small feat. It is something that we have to plan probably for. Not only to host it but to bid for it would require very extensive and proper plans.

"Yes, we are talking about it. It is not impossible for us to perhaps host the Commonwealth Games again. Of course, the next progression for us after hosting the Commonwealth Games, we are looking at hosting the Asian Games. Again, there's nothing stopping us from considering to host the Commonwealth Games after that very successful Commonwealth Games in 1998," Yahya said.

In fact, Malaysia became the first Asian country to host the Commonwealth Games in 1998.

While the slots for hosting the Asian Games till the 2034 edition have all been filled -- the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has awarded the 2030 and 2034 editions to Qatar and Saudi Arabia respectively -- Malaysia can aim for the 2038 slot for the continental games. The Commonwealth Games could be an option since the host for the 2026 edition has not yet been finalised.

The Canadian city of Hamilton did appear inclined but has asked the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to award the 2030 Games as it would coincide with the centenary of the first Commonwealth Games in the Canadian city.

"I have seen the Commonwealth Games growing and I think it will continue to grow in terms of the number of athletes that will participate," said Yahya, indicating that Malaysia could bid for the CWG in 2026.
Panaji, Oct 26 : The Congress party on Tuesday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to immediately dismiss Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and his cabinet ministers in the wake of serious corruption allegations levelled by former state Governor Satya Pal Malik in an interview to a national news channel.

Malik, who is currently the Governor of Meghalaya, had said that there was rampant corruption in Goa, even during the Covid pandemic, especially in delivery of ration during the lockdown and turning a blind eye to movement of mining trucks, when the entire state was shut down.

The Congress has also demanded a probe into the allegations by a sitting Supreme Court judge.

"The Prime Minister must immediately dismiss the Chief Minister and his entire council of ministers, because they are directly involved in massive corruption in the middle of the pandemic. I am not saying it, it is a BJP-appointed Governor making these allegations. The allegations should be investigated by a sitting judge of the Supreme Court," Congress national spokesperson Gaurav Vallabh said while addressing a press conference here.

"The Prime Minister should come and answer. You do 'Mann ki Baat'. Have one 'Mann ki Baat' on this issue. After being intimated by the Governor of state, why did you not initiate any action against the Goa Chief Minister? I hope by today evening, the Prime Minister will take action against Sawant and the entire cabinet," Vallabh said.

Malik in a TV interview on Monday said that he had informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the corruption in the BJP-led coalition government in Goa, but was soon transferred from his post in the coastal state to Meghalaya.

"(A total of) 1,77,915 people were infected by the virus and 3,358 people died. Who is responsible for this? It is the responsibility of the state government of Goa. They were hand in glove with the mining mafia. When the entire country was in lockdown, the mining mafia was not in lockdown," Malik said.
Hassan : , Oct 26 (IANS) An engineering student has ended his life after making an appeal to Chief Minister Basavaraj Bommai and Vice Chancellors of universities to change the existing education system in Karnataka's Hassan district.

The student has been identified as Hemanth Gowda (20), a resident of Arsikere town. The incident took place on Monday night and the police recovered the video on Tuesday.

In the video of 13 minutes and 21 seconds, Gowda asks the Chief Minister, Vice-Chancellors and prominent leaders of all parties to overhaul the present education system. He says the present education system is of no use.

He also appealed that his video should be uploaded on news channels, social media platforms. He had also requested to donate his body organs. Hemanth Gowda requested that his final rites should take place in the presence of Chief Minister, Education Minister and religious seers.

The youth thanked his female friend in the video and asked her to take part in his final rites. He also apologised to his parents.

Gowda hanged himself at his hostel facility. The police are investigating the case.
Bandar Seri Begawan, Oct 26 : The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on Tuesday kicked off its 38th and 39th summits under the chairmanship of Brunei virtually, with the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic and promoting economic recovery high on the agenda.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah said the ASEAN member states will take this opportunity to consider the bloc's community building efforts in realizing the Community Vision 2025, reports Xinhua news agency.

He noted that ASEAN countries will also discuss other issues, including further strengthening the resilience towards regional recovery from the pandemic and enhancing cooperation with dialogue partners.

Lim Jock Hoi, secretary general of the ASEAN, said in his greeting speech that despite the pandemic challenges, the bloc's economic outlook remains resilient.

He said ASEAN's economic recovery from this pandemic will depend on a more even distribution of vaccination rollout across the region, which will ensure the continued fair and credible access to the vaccines for all people.

The summits, with the theme "We Care, We Prepare, We Prosper," is scheduled to discuss a number of issues, including further strengthening the resilience of the ASEAN Community towards regional recovery from the pandemic, enhancing the preparedness of the bloc in addressing common challenges; seizing new opportunities in pursuit of shared prosperity; and maintaining cooperation towards achieving the region's long-term goals.

Meanwhile, both ASEAN members and their dialogue partners hope the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), a mega trade deal between 10 member states plus China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand which was signed last November, will take effect soon to promote regional trade and investment, thus helping with the post-pandemic economic recovery in the region.

Scheduled for Tuesday to Thursday, the 38th and 39th ASEAN summits and related summits will also be joined by leaders from dialogue partners, including China, Japan, South Korea, India, the US, Australia and Russia, among others.

Established in 1967, ASEAN groups Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Brunei is the ASEAN chair for 2021.
Brisbane, Oct 26 : Australia's Queensland state said on Tuesday that it plans to welcome international students from 2022 and a relevant plan has been sent to the federal government.

Under Queensland's Students Arrivals Plan, all the international students must be fully vaccinated and they will use the Regional Quarantine Facility which is under construction at Wellcamp Airport, to the west of Brisbane, reports Xinhua news agency.

Students studying in the medical or allied health fields would be prioritised.

"While remote learning has made it possible for students to continue Queensland university studies from their home countries, we recognize it isn't a sustainable, long-term substitute for face-to-face tutorials and practical experience," the state's Tourism, Innovation and Sport Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said.

He added that the plan is the first phase of scaling up from semester one and will see more students return to Queensland over time.

The decision is also viewed as a lifeline for the state's universities.

Before the pandemic, Queensland's international education sector was worth an estimated A$5.8 billion ($4.35 billion).

Professor Sandra Harding, vice chancellor and president of James Cook University, and chair of the Queensland Vice Chancellor Committee, said the sector had worked collaboratively with the state government.

"These students have been studying online for almost two years waiting to return to Queensland and many of them need to undertake important practical assessments to complete their studies.

"International students are such a vibrant part of all of our campuses and communities, and we look forward to welcoming them back to our state."
Ayodhya, Oct 26 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said the Delhi government would arrange free-of-cost travel for senior citizens from Delhi to Ayodhya.

"I want every Indian should be fortunate enough to have a 'darshan' (visit) of Ram Lalla. I am a small man but Lord Ram has given me enough and I will use my position to help people to come for darshan here," Kejriwal added after offering prayers at the Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya on Tuesday.

Speaking to the media, he said, "I pray to Lord Ram to help India move ahead in the world and bring prosperity for 130 crore people." Kejriwal, who visited the Hanuman Garhi temple, said he was fortunate enough to be in Ayodhya and seek blessings from Lord Ram for the welfare of Delhi, Uttar Pradesh and rest of the country.

The Delhi Chief Minister had arrived at the temple town on Monday and attended the 'Sarayu aarti' where he interacted with saints and seers.
San Francisco, Oct 26 : Tech giant Apple is likely to face a Justice Department antitrust lawsuit soon, with a new report indicating that the latter's two-year-old investigation of the company has recently accelerated.

The Department of Justice reportedly ramped up its Apple probe over the summer of 2021, with DOJ lawyers questioning Apple, as well as its customers and competitors, The Information reported.

That "flurry of activity" has included a new round of subpoenas that were sent to Apple business partners over the summer, sources said.

At least one source noted that the investigation is very likely to lead to an antitrust lawsuit, though the specifics of the complaint are still up in the air, according to AppleInsider.

Additionally, the DOJ has assigned more staff to the probe as department lawyers uncover what they believe are "serious issues".

The Justice Department first launched an investigation into Apple's business practices in 2019, when federal regulators ramped up their scrutiny of Big Tech.

Antitrust investigations of the type targeting Apple can take years to complete. After an investigatory period, DOJ lawyers will submit a recommendation to sue.

The Apple case has yet to reach that point, and the timing could also be affected by the pending Senate confirmation of incoming DOJ antitrust chief Jonathan Kanter.

The department's investigation is also said to be undeterred by the recent decision in the Epic Games versus Apple lawsuit.

Apple largely fended off Epic Games' complaints, and the judge presiding over the case ruled that Apple was not in violation of federal antitrust regulations.

In addition to the investigation in the US, Apple is also facing an antitrust probe in Europe after Spotify levied a complaint concerning Apple Music.
Male, Oct 26 : Over 100,000 tourists have visited the Maldives in the month of October, the state-owned PSM News citing data from the Ministry of Tourism said on Tuesday.

Ministry data showed that 102,434 tourists visited the Maldives from October 1 to 24, a 599 per cent increase from the same period in 2020 but a 2 per cent decrease compared to 2019, reports Xinhua news agency.

The Maldives has recorded a total of 973,269 tourist arrivals so far this year, or a daily average of 4,454.

According to the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), the country will this year cross the mark of a million tourist arrivals by the end of October.

India and Russia were the biggest sources of tourist arrivals for the Maldives, accounting for 23 per cent and 19 per cent of all arrivals, respectively.

They were followed by visitors from France, Kazakhstan, Spain, Ukraine, the UK and the US.

The country's borders had been fully closed for three months last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic before they were reopened in July 2020.

The borders were closed for South Asian tourists due to a surge of Covid-19 cases in May 2021, but were reopened on July 15.

Tourism is the largest economic industry in the Maldives, as it plays an important role in earning foreign exchange revenues and employing thousands of citizens.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Supreme Court will pronounce judgment on Wednesday on a batch of petitions seeking court-monitored probe into the alleged Pegasus snooping matter.

On September 23, the top court had indicated that it may set up a technical committee to probe the allegations of snooping by using the Pegasus spyware on journalists, activists etc.

A bench headed by Chief Justice N.V. Ramana had orally told senior advocate C.U. Singh, who is appearing for one of the petitioners in Pegasus matter, that some experts have expressed their inability to join the probe due to personal reasons and an order on the committee is expected soon.

The CJI had said that the court wanted to pass orders this week, however, the order was deferred as some members, who the court had wanted to be part of the technical committee, had expressed personal difficulties to be on the committee.

"That is why it is taking time to constitute the technical expert committee," he said, adding that the court will finalise the members of the technical committee soon.

The Centre had already proposed to constitute an expert panel, composed of independent members, to examine the snooping allegations. It had said this committee can submit its report to the top court.

On September 13, the Centre had told the Supreme Court it does not wish to file a detailed affidavit now clarifying whether Pegasus spyware was used or not, in its response to a batch of petitions seeking independent probe into the alleged snooping.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, representing the Centre, had submitted before the top court that the government will disclose all details in connection with the Pegasus case before a panel of domain experts but not on an affidavit for national security reasons.

Mehta emphasised that there are terror organizations, which better not know which software is used to combat terror etc. "It has its own pitfalls", he added.
Lucknow, Oct 26 : The Samajwadi Party headquarters in Lucknow are grabbing a great deal of attention with a hoarding that screams "Aa Raha Hoon Main".

The hoarding also has a countdown clock to March 18 -- the day the BJP government completes its tenure. As the clock ticks away, Samajwadis are filled with excitement.

When asked, party President Akhilesh Yadav said that the hoarding had been put up by a party worker.

"Earlier we had put up countdown clocks to ensure timely completion of development projects like expressway and metro," he said.

About the confidence of his return to power, the SP chief said that bureaucrats were the best barometers in such situation.

"The number of bureaucrats sending me good wishes and message had suddenly gone up. They are asking for a meeting and even passing on information," he said.

Meanwhile Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath took a dig at the countdown clock and the hoardings and said that in Aurraiya, a SP leader kidnapped eight persons and demanded money after the hoarding came up. Asked him if this is what the hoarding meant, he replied in affirmative.
New Delhi: Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Mansukh Mandaviya address press conference on PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission in New Delhi on Tuesday, October 26, 2021. (Photo: Qamar Sibtain/ IANS) Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi: Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare Mansukh Mandaviya address press conference on PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission in New Delhi on Tuesday, October 26, 2021. (Photo: Qamar Sibtain/ IANS) Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Oct 26 : Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has called a meeting of Health Ministers of states on Wednesday to discuss the progress of vaccination. A top source with the Union Ministry of Health said the meeting has been called to scale up vaccine administration across the country.

The Centre on Saturday asked the States and Union Territories (UTs) to speed up the vaccination programme with focus on second Covid doses across the country. The decision has come in the backdrop of the country achieving the milestone of administering 100 crore doses on October 21.

The Centre has planned to vaccinate all eligible population by the end of 2021 under the mass vaccination programme. The Centre has asked the states and UTs to improve the pace of vaccination and increase the coverage.

India's Covid-19 vaccination coverage has exceeded 102.94 crore as per provisional reports till 7 a.m. on Tuesday which has been achieved through 1,02,28,502 sessions. A total of 64,75,733 vaccine doses have been administered in the last 24 hours.

Meanwhile, India continues to show declining trends on daily Covid caseload trajectory. India on Tuesday reported 12,428 fresh Covid cases which is the lowest in last 238 days. The active caseload remains below two lakh mark and is currently at 1,63,816 which is the lowest in 241 days. At present, active cases constitute 0.48 per cent of the country's total positive cases which is the lowest since March 2020.
Guwahati, Oct 26 : Amid the ongoing language controversy in Assam, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday that a language unites masses and there should not be a dispute over it.

He made the remarks while campaigning for the October 30 by-elections to the five Assembly seats.

On Tuesday, Sarma addressed two election rallies in Thowra where the Congress-turned-BJP leader Sushanta Borgohain is contesting.

The Chief Minister told the people that they should not feel bad about a hoarding in Assamese language that was defaced in Cachar district which led to the arrest of two youths.

The hoarding on the "Jal Jivan Mission" also led to protests from various organisations including the Barak Democratic Front (BDF) and the All Bengali Youth and Students' Organisation (ABYSO).

In reaction, few people in Guwahati defaced a signboard in Bengali.

"We should work together for an undivided India and a united Assam. We would be very cautious and serious that no one should do anything which may hurt the sentiments of the people of Brahmaputra Valley or the Barak Valley. If anyone hurts the sentiments of other communities, we would only create a difference between the people of diverse communities," the Chief Minister said.

"If by mistake a textbook was published in Bengali in the Brahmaputra Valley or a text book in Assamese language circulated in the Barak Valley, people should refrain themselves from giving any kind of reactions.

"Language brings people closer, maintains peace and harmony and if due to any minor reason language caused any division among the people, there would be no significance of a language. More people from Assam overcoming the lacunae in languages must be successful in the all India competitions in education and jobs including in Army and civil services," he added.

Reacting on the comments of eminent Assamese litterateur Nagen Saikia's call for the separation of the Barak Valley from Assam, the Chief Minister said that he did not want to comments and that it was his personal opinion.

After the Cachar incident, Saikia, winner of the Sahitya Academy Award and former president of the Asom Sahitya Sabha, the state's highest literary body, had suggested the separation of the Barak Valley to maintain peace and tranquility in the state.

The All Assam Students' Union had also objected to the defacing of the hoarding, claiming that it was an insult to the Assamese language.

Meanwhile, another hoarding of the Industry Department written in both English and Assamese, put up in the neighbouring Karimganj district, was removed after the protests last week.

Over four million people, mostly Bengali speaking, reside in the three districts of Barak Valley region -- Cachar, Karimganj and Hailakhandhi.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Subhadra Sen Gupta, who passed away on May 3 due to Covid-19, leaves behind "The Story of the First Civilizations", a fun and informative book for children about the ancient civilizations from around the world -- Mesopotamia, Egypt, Indus Valley, China, Greece, Rome, the Americas and Africa -- that has just been published by Talking Club/Speaking Tiger.

Laced with maps and rich illustrations by Devashish Verma, the book delves into the cultures, inventions, architecture, governments, and little-known stories about our origins.

For instance, did you know: The Indus Valley Civilisation was perhaps the cleanest and most organised of all civilisations?

The Chinese were the first civilisation to introduce the concept of exams?

There used to be an Inca king who would dust himself with gold?

Dive into these and many more nuggets of information about the world's earliest civilisations. Here you will read about the Egyptian rulers who built lavish tombs for their afterlife; about Greece, the first European civilisation that gave us philosophers and mathematicians as well as the cherished concept of democracy; the builders and architects and the gladiators and warring emperors of Rome; and about Africa, the continent where gold and libraries abounded.

In her unique and engaging style, Sen Gupta takes us on a journey around the world, and tells the known and little-known stories about our origins. Well-researched and filled with captivating illustrations, "The Story of the First Civilisations" will delight and educate readers everywhere.

Announcing the release, Talking Cub Publisher Sudeshna Shome Ghosh said: "Subhadra Sen Gupta's works, especially those that brought history to life in new and interesting ways for children are an invaluable contribution to Indian writing for children in English. In this book, she wrote about the history of the world through the stories of ancient civilisations.

"It was a project that had thrilled and excited her and she had tackled it with her usual enthusiasm and meticulous research. As always, the writing here remained fresh, accessible, humorous-everything far removed from what one expects from history books. It was an honour and huge responsibility for us to publish this book after her tragic demise earlier this year," Shome added.

Subhadra Sen Gupta (1952-2021) wrote over 40 books for children because she thought children are the best readers in the world. In 2014, she was awarded the Bal Sahitya Puraskar by the Sahitya Akademi. In 2020, she won the Big Little Book Award instituted by Parag-An Initiative of Tata Trusts.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Congress will start membership drive from November 1, ahead of internal polls in the party. This was decided in a special meeting of General Secretaries, In-Charges and PCC Presidents chaired by Sonia Gandhi in Delhi on Tuesday. Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi was also present and participated in the deliberations.

Addressing a press conference after the meeting, party General Secretary Randeep Surjewala said, "It was resolved to undertake a massive membership drive commencing November 1, 2021, running through till March 31, 2022.

"It was unanimously agreed that the Indian National Congress would reach out to every nook and corner, every ward and village across the country and offer Indians in the remotest parts, a platform for their aspirations." The Congress asked the people to join Congress to throw the BJP government which has caused sufferings to the people.

The Congress said that special emphasis was laid on enrolling first time voters as members of the Congress. "The Congress leaders and workers will especially visit the localities and homes of our brothers and sisters belonging to the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes; hold interactions with these sections by laying special focus on the steps initiated by the Congress Party for their welfare and inclusion, as also identify the way forward for addressing the main points," he said.

The party has also decided to enrol women members in mission mode from all sections of society.

"The core idea is not just a nationwide outreach to specific sections of youth, women and the marginalised but also to bring out the fact that the Congress party is the only vehicle to fight the designed attack on the lives and livelihoods of these sections by the policies of the Modi Government," Surjewala added.

Congress will counter diabolical and systematic attack unleashed by the BJP/RSS on the Congress ideology and on the core fundamentals of justice, equality and affirmative action enshrined in the Constitution, he said.

"The meeting expressed concern over the systematic subjugation of democracy by unconstitutional means and virtually holding every institution captive to the whims and caprices of the ruling elite." Congress has asked its every party functionary --from ordinary workers to the senior most leaders to take on this fight based on the core of the Congress ideology and the founding principles of India.

Party will initiate a comprehensive training programme at all levels of the party. "AICC office bearers and the PCC presidents agreed to undertake issue and policy-based training programmes to counter the vicious propaganda, lies and malicious campaigns unleashed by the ruling regime, both by word of mouth and through social media", Surjewala said.

The Congress outlined agitational programs from November 14 to 29, and said party's resolve to fight the sinister attack on the agriculture sector and millions of farmers, the grave unrest on account of unprecedented unemployment, the debilitating attack on people's budget by unpardonable increase in prices of petrol, diesel, cooking gas, cooking oil, building material and every household item.

"The sorry state of our economy bordering on collapse and an impending economic recession is made all the more worrying as the Modi Government remains clueless and directionless on correcting the economic downturn. The net result of their policies is that a handful of crony capitalists continue to grow their wealth by several crores everyday while small businesses, MSMEs, marginal shopkeepers and entrepreneurs become victims of their greed losing their hope, savings and livelihoods," Surjewala said.
Chennai, Oct 26 : A cheating case has been registered against the personal assistant of former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami, police said on Tuesday.

According to Salem Crime Branch, the former CM's aide Mani, along with his accomplice Selvakumar, demanded an amount of Rs 17 lakh for providing Tamil Selvan with a job in Tamil Nadu Transport Corporation.

However, as the job did not materialise, Tamil Selvan started demanding his money back.

However, Mani threatened him with dire consequences and the latter then filed a police complaint on Monday.

Police said that investigation is on.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : Danish Aslam, the director of the recently released web series 'Reunion - Chal Chalein Apne Ghar' featuring Lilette Dubey, K.K. Raina, Karishma Irani, Devika Watsa, says that the definition of an ideal family has changed, especially in modern urban life where parents are mostly left alone and emotionally distant from their children when they are busy travelling and conquering the world outside.

The story of the show revolves around a family of four people where parents, played by Lilette and Raina are left alone in Odisha because both their sons left for their professional lives in Mumbai and Delhi. A family crisis forced them to come together and then the story unfolds from there.

Danish, who earlier directed web series like 'Flesh', 'Its Not That Simple' among others - told IANS: "I think the whole idea of ideal family has changed and so-called 'dysfunctional' family is the new normal. There is an emotional distance and equation between parents and children, siblings and other family members do exist in reality and for me, as a filmmaker that is the exciting part. Our show 'Reunion - Chal Chalein Apne Ghar' is also a reflection of that. In the last 20 years, the way people are migrating and changing their lifestyle because of education, jobs and globalisation as a whole - 'your parents know you the best' is an outdated concept." He went on, "The generation gap is increasing and physical distance creates more emotional distance, so even though you could make many video calls to your parents the distance still remains. When you live in a different city, away from your parents, your office colleagues and neighbours become your family and friends because if anything happens to you, they will stand by you first. In our films and shows, such reality is getting reflected, conflicts in a relationship are getting more interesting for our audience." 'Reunion - Chal Chalein Apne Ghar' is a Zoom Studios original released on Zoom Studios' YouTube channel.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Xinjiang Military Command has received a new type of all-terrain vehicle, which is expected to ensure logistics support to plateau border defence troops as winter draws close and as China-India border tensions again risk rising after the latest military talks failed to reach an agreement due to "unrealistic Indian demands", Global Times reported.

The delivery of the vehicle comes at a time when China and India failed to reach an agreement during the 13th round of corps commander-level talks over issues related to the western section of the China-India border, with the PLA Western Theater Command slamming India for its unreasonable and unrealistic demands on October 11, Global Times said.

Several Chinese experts reached by the Global Times warned at the time that China needs to brace for the possibility of further Indian military aggression, as India is risking a new round of conflict.

The unit that commissioned the new vehicle is garrisoned at a high-altitude, snowy border region that is extremely cold, lacks oxygen and has a complex terrain, which causes difficulties in logistics support including the transport of supplies, the PLA Xinjiang Military Command revealed in a release published on its WeChat account.

After several on-the-spot investigations, the vehicle was tailored to suit the needs of the troops, as it uses caterpillar tracks that aren't made from metal. These tracks are sturdy, do not damage road surfaces, have high mobility and can carry heavy loads, the command said.

The vehicle can traverse freely in complex terrains like shallow river banks, deserts, mountains and snowfields even under bad weather conditions, and provide reliable support to the supply transportation of plateau troops, the release said. It didn't reveal the designation of the new vehicle.

"There is no need to worry that we will run out of living materials this winter," the release quoted a soldier as saying, the report added.

According to a report by China Central Television (CCTV), some PLA units started to use this type of vehicle in January.
Beijing, Oct 26 : Global smartphone brand Xiaomi is reportedly bringing the Redmi Note 11 series in China on October 28 that might feature a 108MP camera.

According to GSMArena, among the series, at least one of the phones will have a 108MP camera, just like the Redmi Note 10 Pro/Pro Max.

The default resolution of the 108 MP photos will be 4:3 since the resolution will be 12,000 x 9,000.A As per the report, the company is likely going to reintroduce the very same Samsung HM2 sensor that was in the previous generations of Redmi Note phones since the current Samsung HM3 platform is slightly different from the specs the brand is promising.

According to its official Weibo page, the Redmi Note 11 series will feature 120W fast charging, a first for the midrange lineup.

Such charging speeds will be a massive improvement over the Note 10 series that have 67W rates in China and 33W on the global scene, the report said.

Meanwhile, an upcoming Xiaomi phone, likely a part of the upcoming series appeared on Geekbench.

The device has a model number 21091116C/21091116UC and was listed with 8GB RAM, Android 11 and what appears to be the Dimensity 920 chipset.
Jaipur, Oct 26 : No places of worship can be built inside police stations and offices in Rajasthan, an official order said here on Tuesday.

In a letter addressed to all senior officers, Additional Director General (ADG) of Police Housing Department, A. Ponnuchami said places of worship in office complexes and police stations "have seen a spurt in the past several years" which is not within the purview of the law.

The 'Rajasthan Religious Buildings and Places Act 1954' also prohibits it, he added.

"Maps prepared by the state government for the construction of administrative buildings of police stations in the state also do not include places of worship. There is no provision for it," Ponnuchami said.

He directed all the officers to ensure that the rules are followed in letter and spirit.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : The Bombay High Court on Tuesday adjourned, till Wednesday, the hearing of the bail application of superstar Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan, who has been arrested along with 19 others in the cruise party case by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB).

Making a forceful plea for bail to Aryan Khan, his lawyer and former Attorney General of India Mukul Rohatgi told the court that the star-son was a special invitee to the ship through event manager Prateek Gaba.

Both Aryan and Arbaaz Merchant were caught before they boarded the ship on October 2, nothing was recovered from Aryan, and the NCB has nothing to show he consumed anything (drugs), he said.

"He was arrested on Ocober 3 and his statement recorded. There was no occasion to arrest my client, short and simple," Rohatgi told a single judge bench of Justice N.W. Sambre.

He pointed out that even though the NCB officers are not police officers, they exercise police powers, and citing a precedent, said that confessions given to them are inadmissible as evidence.

Contending that Aryan Khan was "wrongly arrested", Rohatgi said the only thing against him was he arrived with Merchant, and apparently had knowledge of the drugs found on the latter, and hence, had "conscious possession".

However, in Aryan Khan's case, there was no conscious possession at all and even if this is considered the maximum punishment is one year for the 6 gms (seized from Merchant).

He also questioned the NCB's charges under various acts including charging him with conspiracy, and said that the WhatsApp chats recovered from Aryan Khan's phone, which are cited but not on record, don't relate to the cruise party.

Moreover, he said even if there was a plan to smoke there, it was aborted as they were arrested before, but the penalty (by the NCB) was of consumption, and argued that there was no case of either consumption, sale, or purchase of drugs.

Rohatgi said that Aryan is not accusing anybody from the NCB nor concerned or connected with the 'Panch Witness' (Prabhakar Sail or Kiran Gosavi) and their allegations, adding that while the NCB Mumbai said it (the controversy) was due to some political leader, today they are blaming Aryan for it.

He pointed out that Aryan Khan's mobile phone was not seized and when the court asked the basis for the chats, Rohatgi said they were older chats and nothing to do with the cruise case.

He reiterated that Aryan Khan went there, had nothing on him, but was arrested, has not financed anybody for drug trafficking or cultivating drug plants or production.

Another lawyer for Aryan Khan, Amit Desai said that the NCB is roping in anybody and everybody under the "umbrella charge of conspiracy" and when Aryan Khan, Merchant and Munmun Dhamecha were arrested, they were not booked by the agency for conspiring.

As the matter went beyond the regular court hours, it will now continue further before Justice Sambre on Wednesday afternoon.
Washington, Oct 26 : NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory has for the first time spotted signs of a planet transiting a star outside of the Milky Way galaxy, opening up a new avenue to search for exoplanets at greater distances than ever before.

The possible exoplanet -- or planets outside of our Solar System -- candidate is located in the spiral galaxy Messier 51 (M51), also called the Whirlpool Galaxy because of its distinctive profile, NASA said in a statement.

Astronomers have, so far, found all other known exoplanets and exoplanet candidates in the Milky Way galaxy, almost all of them less than about 3,000 light years from Earth.

An exoplanet in M51 would be about 28 million light years away, meaning it would be thousands of times farther away than those in the Milky Way, NASA said.

"We are trying to open up a whole new arena for finding other worlds by searching for planet candidates at X-ray wavelengths, a strategy that makes it possible to discover them in other galaxies," said Rosanne Di Stefano of the Center for Astrophysics at Harvard and Smithsonian (CfA) in Cambridge, Massachusetts, who led the study.

The findings are published in the journal Nature Astronomy.

The exoplanet candidate was spotted in a binary system called M51-ULS-1, located in M51. This binary system contains a black hole or neutron star orbiting a companion star with a mass about 20 times that of the Sun. The X-ray transit they found using Chandra data lasted about three hours, during which the X-ray emission decreased to zero.

Based on this and other information, the team estimate the exoplanet candidate in M51-ULS-1 would be roughly the size of Saturn, and orbit the neutron star or black hole at about twice the distance of Saturn from the Sun.

The team looked for X-ray transits in three galaxies beyond the Milky Way galaxy, using both Chandra and the European Space Agency's XMM-Newton. Their search covered 55 systems in M51, 64 systems in Messier 101 (the "Pinwheel" galaxy), and 119 systems in Messier 104 (the "Sombrero" galaxy).

However, more data would be needed to verify the interpretation as an extragalactic exoplanet. One challenge is that the planet candidate's large orbit means it would not cross in front of its binary partner again for about 70 years, thwarting any attempts for a confirming observation for decades, NASA said.

Named in honor of the late Indian-American Nobel laureate, Subrahmanyan Chandrasekhar, the Chandra X-ray Observatory is the world's most powerful X-ray telescope. It has eight-times greater resolution and is able to detect sources more than 20-times fainter than any previous X-ray telescope.

Known to the world as Chandra (which means "moon" or "luminous" in Sanskrit), Chandrasekhar was widely regarded as one of the foremost astrophysicists of the twentieth century.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : In a clear message to party workers, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday said that discipline is paramount, giving a subtle message to the dissenters. Sonia Gandhi in the meeting of Congress General Secretaries, State In Charges and State Presidents chalked out party's future plans ahead of assembly polls in five states.

Seated beside Sonia Gandhi was Rahul Gandhi, the former Congress president, who is likely to be the next party chief, the elections of which are to be held next year.

On Tuesday, Sonia said clearly, "I would like to re-emphasise the paramount need for discipline and unity. What should matter to each and every one of us is the strengthening of the organisation. This must override personal ambitions. In this, lies both collective and individual success." The optics on Tuesday showed that Congress leaders and workers have to work with Rahul Gandhi and the message was specially for the dissenters, said an insider. In the CWC meet on October 16, Sonia Gandhi had made it clear that she is taking decisions in the party, saying she is the "full-time Congress President".

"I am, if you will allow me to say so, a full-time and hands on Congress President," she had said while addressing the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The BJP has claimed that Neelamani Durga Devi Mandir in Pathapatnam was damaged at the behest of the Andhra Pradesh government. The saffron party also demanded that the YSRCP government must book the culprits for hurting Hindu sentiments.

BJP national secretary and Andhra Pradesh co-in-charge, Sunil Deodhar told IANS that even after three days of destruction of Neelamani Durga Devi Mandir, the Y.S. Jagan Mohan government failed to take any action.

Deodhar claimed that in the name of road widening without following the set procedure and norms to shift the temple, the idol of Lord Hanuman was destroyed by the officials of Andhra Pradesh government.

"Neelamani Durga Devi Temple at Pathapatnam in Srikakulam district is one of the ancient temples where Hindus of North Andhra Pradesh and Odisha worship, is destroyed by the Jagan government in the name of road widening. No norms for shifting a temple like allocating land, consent of local Hindus was followed," Deodhar said.

Condemning the incident, Deodhar said that the BJP will not remain silent over the incident which was deliberately done to hurt Hindu sentiments and the party's Srikakulam district has already launched an agitation against it.

Deodhar demanded strict action against officials involved by initiating criminal proceedings against them.

"Andhra Pradesh's endowment minister must apologise for the sinful act of the state government," Deodhar demanded.

Earlier in a tweet, Deodhar said, "In past, anti-Hindu criminals (still roaming freely) in Andhra Pradesh vandalised idols and busts in temples. Now, the evangelist Chief Minister @ysjagan and his cohorts have legitimised the Temple Destruction in AP. BJP Strongly protests destruction of Neelamani Durga Devi Mandir in PathaPatnam." Quoting Deodhar tweet, BJP Rajya Sabha member GVL Narasimha Rao said, "Andhra Pradesh CM @YSJagan must apologize to the Hindus for the continued attacks on Hindu temples and desecration of idols of Hindu Gods and Goddesses. @YSRCParty government must book culprits for hurting Hindu sentiments."
New Delhi : NCB officer Sameer Wankhede arrives at NCB office in New Delhi on Tuesday, October 26, 2021.(Photo: Anupam Gautam/IANS) Image Source: IANS News

New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) Mumbai zonal director Sameer Wankhede, who led the cruise ship drug bust involving Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan and later came under the shadow of extortion allegations, will be examined by a five-member team of NCB vigilance department on Wednesday, sources said on Tuesday.

He will be examined in Mumbai along with Prabhakar Sail among others, according to sources.

Sources said that a five-member team led by the NCB vigilance unit head DDG N.R. Gyaneshwar Singh would reach Mumbai at 11 a.m. on Wednesday.

Gyaneshwar Singh said he is not going to Mumbai on Tuesday.

"We do meet daily. I haven't called anyone. I haven't called anyone for my probe. I am not going to Mumbai today," Gyaneshwar said while evading questions related to the corruption charges on the probe agency.

Earlier, he had said that the agency will initiate an inquiry into the allegations of extortions against Wankhede made by an independent witness in the cruise drug case.

Wankhede on Tuesday reached the NCB headquarters in New Delhi to meet S.N. Pradhan, director general of the NCB. Interestingly, at the same time, Gyaneshwar left the office without meeting Wankhede.

When Wankhede reached the NCB office from the back gate, some people gathered there in his support. The supporters who were seen holding placards written 'global support for Sameer', denied the allegations, saying they want honest officers like Wankhede and he should not to be targeted in such a way.

Wankhede had reached Delhi on Monday night to meet the Director-General of the NCB, in connection with the allegations. According to reports, he may be questioned on the bribery allegations. However, while interacting with the media after reaching Delhi late on Monday night, Wankhede termed the allegations against him as "baseless".

"I have not been summoned. I've come here for a different purpose. Allegations against me are baseless," he said.

Mumbai NCB arrested Aryan Khan, son of actor Shah Rukh Khan in the cruise drug case investigation on October 2. Prabhakar Sail, the 'independent witness', in a statement to the media, claimed that Rs 25 crore was demanded by an official of the NCB and other persons, including absconding witness K.P. Gosavi, to let off Aryan Khan in the case.

Prabhakar told media persons that he had overheard Gosavi telling one Sam D'Souza over the phone, after Aryan Khan was brought to the NCB office following the October 2 raid, about a demand of Rs 25 crore and "to settle at Rs 18 crore as they have to give Rs 8 crore to Sameer Wankhede".

Singh said he will record the statements and analyze the evidence given by the witness, Prabhakar Sail, and submit a comprehensive report to the NCB. He said that certain facts have been reported through social media by the independent witness.
Singapore, Oct 26 : Reigning ONE Heavyweight World champion Arjan Bhullar watched closely as undefeated Russian banger Anatoly Malykhin took care of business at the recently-concluded ONE: Revolution, knocking out Iranian star Amir Aliakbari in the first round.

Arjan shared his thoughts on the fight, praising Malykhin while taking a further dig at Aliakbari. "You know what, (Anatoly) Malykhin is a real athlete who is dedicated to his craft. Amir [Aliakbari] is an Instagram star who likes to talk. So it was cool to see them compete and it went down the way it did," Bhullar said in a recent interview with South China Morning Post.

"Maybe Amir should start talking less and [start] training more' It's ok to talk, but you have got to back it up. That's a couple in a row now. He better get to work, otherwise, it won't be looking good for him." Malykhin's victory and impressive performance earned him the next shot at Bhullar's heavyweight belt, and the two are expected to meet in the Circle by the end of the year or early next.

Bhullar revealed he has already begun to study Malykhin's style and has discovered some chinks in his game.

"I see weaknesses in the grappling and in the stand-up, to be honest. We've sat down as a team, studied his fights in ONE, before ONE, all of that," Bhullar said.

"We've done our research on this guy and we are confident heading into the fight once it gets booked." Both Bhullar and Malykhin are capable wrestlers with good striking skills, making this an even match-up on paper. However, the first Indian MMA world champion in history believes he has what it takes to end Malykhin's unbeaten streak.

"We're going to dominate. We're going to dominate and we are going to show them [I'm a] complete mixed martial artist. I'm a world champion for a reason," Bhullar said.

"Anatoly [Malykhin] is going to have that fighting spirit. He has 'hat in him. But I'm just a better mixed martial artist, I'm a'world champion. I'm just a little bet'er than him and I'm going to prove it and I'm excited for that, to break that fighting spirit and break his will and to get my arm raised."
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Pakistan Prime Minister's Office on Tuesday notified the appointment of Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum as the new chief of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). He will replace the incumbent Lt Gen Faiz Hameed from next month, Dawn reported.

"The prime minister has seen and approved the appointment of... Lt Gen Nadeem Ahmed Anjum... as director general Inter-Services Intelligence, with effect from November 20, 2021, from the panel of officers at para 6 of the summary," a notification issued by the Pak PMO dated October 26 said.

According to the notification, the incumbent ISI director general, Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, will continue to hold charge as the ISI chief till November 19, 2021, the report said.

The appointment comes after nearly three weeks of an alleged standoff between the Pakistan military and the government over the appointment of Pakistan's new spymaster. The army had announced on Oct 6 that the former ISI chief, Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, had been made the Peshawar corps commander, while Lt Gen Anjum was appointed in his place, the report said.

But the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) had not since issued an official notification of Lt Gen Anjum's appointment, leading to rumours about strains in civil-military relations.

Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum, who was commissioned in service in September 1988, earlier headed Corps V in Karachi.

Gen Anjum commanded a brigade in Kurram Agency, led Frontier Corps (North) in Balochistan and remained commandant of Command and Staff College Quetta before becoming corps commander Karachi in December 2020.

After days of speculation on October 12, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry had said that the authority to appoint the ISI chief lay with the prime minister, and that the set procedure would be followed for the purpose.

"The legal procedure will be followed in the appointment of the new DG ISI, for which both [Gen Bajwa and Prime Minister Imran Khan] are in agreement," he had said, the report added.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : Concerned over the manner in which Bollywood is being "targeted" by the Narcotics Control Bureau for the past over one year, Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray will write to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue, Maharashtra Minister Nawab Malik said on Tuesday.

The minister met his NCP colleague and Home Minister Dilip Walse-Patil and the CM this evening to discuss setting up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the ongoing fallout of the cruise rave party by the NCB.

"The CM expressed his concerns at how Bollywood's image is being maligned globally. After Hollywood, it's the most important film industry, employs millions of people and contributes around 3-4 percent to the national GDP. The CM will write to the PM highlighting the matter," Malik told media persons.

On the issue of probing the issues revealed by a NCB "Panch Witness" related to the ship raid, Thackeray and Walse-Patil have assured that necessary action like lodging a police complaint would be taken up.

The state government is likely to probe the purported revelations made by "Panch-Witness' Prabhakar Sail on alleged bribery deals by the NCB through conduit Kiran Gosavi, who is currently absconding.

Malik's meetings were a followup of a 26-point letter which he placed in the public domain, sent by a NCB whistle-blower on condition of anonymity, highlighting the alleged goings on in the central probe agency.

Meanwhile, Marathi film actress Kranti Redkar-Wankhede, and Yasmeen Wankhede -- the wife and sister, respectively, of NCB Mumbai Zonal Director Sameer Wankhede -- slammed Malik at a joint press conference.

Accusing Malik of misusing his position and indulging in "kitchen politics", the duo also dismissed allegations levelled against Wankhede and dared the minister to prove them in a court of law.

They claimed that despite getting police protection, their families are being trolled in a foul manner and getting death threats from all over India, but asserted they are not scared.

Simultaneously, Bharatiya Janata Party activist Mohit (Kamboj) Bharatiya lodged a defamation complaint against Malik, charging him with resorting to falsehoods and misusing his ministerial position.
Mumbai, Oct 26 : A special NDPS court in Mumbai on Tuesday granted bail to two accused - both passengers from Odisha on the Mumbai-Goa cruise ship - which was raided by the Narcotics Control Bureau on October 2.

Manish Rajgaria and Avin Sahu, both from Rourkela, who have been granted bail of Rs 50,000 each.

The duo was among the total 20 arrested, including superstar Shah Rukh Khan's son Aryan Khan, after the NCB swooped on the Cordelia Cruise ship and bust an alleged rave party on board, sparking a nationwide sensation followed by a huge political row.

While Rajgaria was accused of possessing 2.4 gms of ganja, Sahu was charged with accepting that he had consumed drugs twice on the ship, and nabbed after the cruise ship returned to Mumbai from Goa on October 4.

Arguing for bail, Sahu's lawyer Sana Raees Khan contended that the NCB did not conduct a medical examination to ascertain if her client had indeed consumed drugs.

Seeking bail for Rajgaria, his lawyer Taraq Sayed said that no recovery was made from his client and the 2.4 gms of ganja allegedly shown in his possession was handed over by the ship security personnel to the NCB.

While Rajgaria runs a sponge iron plant in Odisha, Sahu owns a jewellery shop in Rourkela and regularly travels to places like Dubai, Mumbai and other cities for business purposes.

A total of another 18 arrested-accused still remain in judicial custody while the bail applications of three prominent accused, Aryan Khan, Arbaaz Merchant and Munmun Dhamecha will come up for further hearing before Bombay High Court on Wednesday.

--IANS qn/vd

A
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Zakia Jafri, widow of late former Gujarat Congress MLA Ehsan Jafri, on Tuesday told the Supreme Court that she is not concerned about high dignitaries and there is no politics, but rather the issue is about law and order, and the right of the individuals.

Zakia Jafri has moved the Supreme Court challenging the SIT report, which gave clean chit to the then Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and other high functionaries in the 2002 Gujarat riots.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing her, submitted before a bench headed by Justice A.M. Khanwilkar that his client was "not concerned about any high dignitaries here. There is no politics in this. This is just about law and order, rights of individuals".

He added that his client's case is that there was a larger conspiracy at play -- bureaucratic inaction, police complicity, hate speech and a conspiracy to unleash violence.

Sibal submitted that the petitioner filed a complaint to DGP Gujarat categorically alleging there is a widespread conspiracy, which led to crumbling law-and-order situation in the state after Godhra carnage. He added the SIT has not produced relevant material before the court.

As this, the bench queried Sibal: "Documents which you wanted to rely on were not looked at by SIT?" Sibal emphasised that the republic stands on what the court decides and reiterated that there was no politics involved here.

"I don't want anyone to be named, anyone to be indicted... but it is a law and order issue. This should not happen again. I only want investigation, I do not want any convictions at this stage," he said. He further added that this is not a political issue, rather an administrative failure of the state.

Sibal added that there are 23,000 pages worth of material, which does not limit to Gulbarga Society carnage alone, and emphasised that nobody has gone into these pages so far.

"We only want this court to look at these pages. That is all we want. If SC limits it to Gulbarga, what happens to the rule of law?" he asked.

The top court is likely to continue hearing the matter on Wednesday.

Zakia Jafri's husband was killed in the Gulberg Housing Society massacre during the 2002 Gujarat riots. She moved the top court challenging the SIT report which ruled out any "larger conspiracy" by high state functionaries in instigating the communal riots post Godhra massacre.
Toronto, Oct 26 : Canada's first Hindu Cabinet minister Anita Anand made history on Tuesday by becoming the country's second-ever woman defence minister by replacing fellow Indo-Canadian Harjit Sajjan as Prime Minister Justin Trudeau unveiled his new Cabinet.

Sajjan will be the new minister of international affairs.

Another Indo-Canadian woman Kamal Khera, the 32-year-old MP from Brampton West, also took oath as minister for seniors, taking the number of Indo-Canadian women ministers in the Trudeau Cabinet to three.

The sitting Indo-Canadian woman minister Bardish Chagger, who held the Ministry of Diversity, Inclusion and Youth of Canada, has been shuffled out.

The two Indo-Canadian women are among six women ministers in the new Cabinet.

Trudeau demoted Harjit Sajjan for failing to address the allegations of sexual misconduct in the Canadian military and rewarded Anita Anand and Kamal Khera for their work during the pandemic.

Anand has been praised for her work as procurement minister and Khera - a registered nurse - for going back to work as a health-care provider at the peak of the pandemic. A three-time MP since 2015, Khera has also served as a parliamentary secretary to the ministers of health and international trade.

Anita was born in 1967 in Nova Scotia to Indian parents who were both medical professionals. Her mother Saroj D. Ram came from Punjab and father S.V. Anand from Tamil Nadu.

Anita, who is on leave as a professor of law at the University of Toronto, was picked up as minister of public service and procurement by Prime Minister Justin in 2019 after her election as MP from Oakville near Toronto.

Anita assisted the Air India Inquiry Commission with extensive research. The commission investigated the bombing of Air India Kanishka Flight 182 on June 23, 1985, that killed all 329 people on board.

The bomb that exploded on board the Montreal-Delhi flight was planted by Vancouver-based Khalistanis to avenge the military action at the Golden Temple a year earlier in 1984.

Before Anita Anand, Canada's only woman defence minister was former Prime Minister Kim Campbell who held the portfolio for six months from January 4 to June 25 in 1993.
Kolkata Oct 26 : The battle between the Centre and former West Bengal Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay took another turn after he moved the Calcutta High Court challenging the decision of the Central Administrative Tribunal's (CAT) principal bench to transfer to itself the application he filed before the Calcutta bench on the Centre's plea.

The case is likely to be heard by the court on Wednesday.

Bandyopadhyay, who is presently the Chief Advisor to Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, moved the CAT against the Centre's decision to initiate a probe against him to ascertain whether he had violated norms by "not attending a meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi" at Kalaikunda on May 280.

On a prayer by the Department of Personnel and Training for the transfer of the case from the Calcutta bench, the CAT's principal bench in Delhi ordered that Bandopadhyay's application will be heard by it.

His lawyers appearing before a division bench of the high court on Tuesday sought its intervention, claiming that the balance of convenience favours that the applicant, in this case a retired IAS officer based in the city, be heard at the regional bench here.

The controversy cropped up on May 28 this year when Bandyopadhyay skipped the meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi who had come to Kalaikunda in East Midnapore to assess the destruction caused by Cyclone Yaas.

Bandyopadhyay, who was then the Chief Secretary, had reached the Prime Minister's meeting with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and then left along with her to visit Digha to attend a review meeting after the cyclone had hit three coastal districts.

"Alapan Bandyopadhyay has followed the explicit and specific directions of his immediate superior authority - the Chief Minister of the state. The Chief Minister entered the meeting, greeted the PM, handed over the reports and a Power point presentation, and took the PM's permission to leave the meeting, as she was scheduled to attend another meeting. She also requested the PM to allow the Chief Secretary to leave the meeting. After the PM's approval, the CM and the CS left the meeting. These are all documented facts, and they were presented before the CAT," said an official.

The incident became more a political battle than a bureaucratic protocol. The Centre issued a showcause notice asking him to reply to why charges would not be framed against him for not attending a review meeting of the Prime Minister at Kalaikunda on May 28, which was considered as violation of the service rules of all India service officers.

"In a reply to the showcause, Bandyopadhyay had said he had attended the meeting along with the Chief Minister, but he had to leave the meeting with the CM after taking permission of the PM. But the Centre is clearly not happy with the reply," said a source.

Bandyopadhyay, who was supposed to retire on May 31, was given an extension of one year by the Centre on the recommendations of the state government but after the incident, he was asked to report to Delhi for central deputation.

Bandyopadhyay refused to go for a central deputation and took his superannuation. Immediately after his retirement, Banerjee appointed him as her Chief Adviser.
Hyderabad, Oct 26 : A section of junior doctors at government-run Osmania General Hospital in Hyderabad on Tuesday attended their duties wearing helmets as a mark of protest after a doctor was injured when a ceiling fan fell on her.

A final-year resident doctor from the Dermatology Department suffered head injuries after a ceiling fan broke off its hinges and came crashing down on her in the outpatient building. The incident occurred on Monday and hospital sources said the fan was 40 years old.

Highlighting the dilapidated condition of the city's oldest hospital and its poor infrastructure, some junior doctors on Tuesday attended their duties wearing helmets.

The junior doctors staged a silent protest, demanding that authorities take immediate action to prevent recurrence of such incidents. They said despite repeated demands, no measures were taken to improve the infrastructure.

The doctors blamed negligence by the authorities concerned for the pathetic conditions in the over century old hospital.

However, OGH Superintendent Dr B. Nagender dismissed Monday's incident as a sporadic one. He said all the problems faced by the hospital will be solved with the construction of a new building and pointed out that the issue is pending in the court.

This is not the first time that doctors have resorted to novel protest.

Pratibha, one of the junior doctors, recalled that in 2018, they wore helmets to highlight the dilapidated condition of the building. They had also conducted outpatient checkups under trees to highlight the problems faced by them due to lack of proper equipment and facilities.

Patients also complained of negligence by the hospital staff and lack of basic facilities like beds. Some patients were seen lying in open ground in hospital premises with their attendants holding saline bottles in their hands.

Located on the banks of river, Osmania Hospital is the oldest hospital in Hyderabad and one of the biggest state-run healthcare facilities in Telangana.

However, the hospital building is in a dilapidated condition and it has been in the news for all wrong reasons. Patches of plaster can be seen falling off while videos of stray dogs roaming around in wards, water and drainage pipeline leakage, patients lying on ground and even outside the building and heaps of waste have surfaced many times.

Last year, the hospital's oldest block was flooded after heavy rains. The rain and drainage water had gushed into the hospital building flooding the corridors, alleyways and wards causing severe inconvenience to patients.

Patients and their attendants were sitting atop beds with ankle-deep water flooding the ward.

Videos of water flowing into the hospital and washing away various articles and hospital staff trying to stop the flow had gone viral over social media. Following the incident, the heritage block was closed.

In 2015, the state government had proposed to demolish the building on the ground that it is structurally weak and unfit to run a regular hospital. It wanted to build two towers, 24 floors each.

However, strong opposition from historians, heritage activists and prominent citizens forced the government to drop its plans to raze the building. The matter is currently being heard by the High Court.

Conceived after the Musi floods of 1908, the hospital was built by Mir Osman Ali Khan, the last Nizam of Hyderabad, and named after him.

Designed by British architect Vincent Jerome Esch and Nawab Khan Bahadur Mirza Akbar Baig in Indo-Saracenic style, it was completed in 1919.

Spread over 26.5 acres, the hospital has 11 major blocks. The inpatient block alone is spread over an area of 2.37 acres with a total bed capacity of 1,168 beds including 363 in super speciality wards.
Kolkata, Oct 26 : Looking for a permanent solution to the issue of the hill areas, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday said that the state government will take steps to conduct elections in the Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA).

She also promised that the government will do everything possible to implement the three-tier panchayat system in the hills.

The Chief Minister, who is on a four days' tour to north Bengal, said in an administrative meeting in Darjeeling that the state government will take all the steps to conduct the GTA election within the next few months. The Trinamool Congress formed GTA after coming to power in 2011 but there was election only once since its inception.

Bimal Gurung, who headed the Gorkhaland movement, became the Chairman of GTA but since then there was no election.

There were several allegations that there were corrupt practices in GTA and there was demand for an audit from several quarters. The state government wanted to do an audit, but the process was thwarted by the terror unleashed by Gurung and his Gorkha Janamukti Morcha. Later, when an arrest warrant was issued, Gurung fled Darjeeling from the hills and Binoy Tamang became the GTA Chairman.

"We will prepare a fresh voters' list of the hills and conduct elections as early as possible. Terror is not the solution to a problem. To me there is no difference between north Bengal and south Bengal. I want development for the people of the hills. Give me a chance. There will be a permanent solution to the problem of the people in the Hills," Banerjee said.

The Chief Minister also said that there is a two-tier panchayat system in the hills and the government is keen to develop a full-fledged three-tier panchayat system so that the people of the hills can get all the benefits.

"We are working towards it and we hope to implement the system very soon," she added.

GJM leader Roshan Giri, another hill leader Anit Thapa, another hill leader, and Kalimpong MLA Ruden Lepcha, who were present in the meeting, had demanded GTA and panchayat elections from the Chief Minister.
New Dehi, Oct 26: China's patience with the Taliban appears to be running out with Afghanistan once again showing signs of becoming a global terror hub, where the separatist Uyghur Islamist groups appear to be taking root.

China's zero-tolerance to the revival of the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), with deep nodes among ethnic Uyghurs in China's ultra-strategic Xinjiang region, is apparent as foreign minister Wang Yi personally read out the riot order to Taliban's acting deputy prime minister Mullah Baradar in Doha on Monday.

Wang told Baradar that China is not happy with his government because they have not started fulfilling the promises that the group has made.

Wang emphasized that the ETIM "is an international terrorist organization listed by the UN Security Council, (which) not only poses a real threat to China's national security and territorial integrity, but also jeopardizes the domestic stability and long-term stability in Afghanistan," reports Xinhua, the China state run news agency.

Wang told Baradar that so far there was no indication that the Taliban government has broken its relations with militant outfits like ETIM and ISIS-K. He referred to the claims made by the ISIS-K that it has Uyghur Fighters and suicide bombers in its ranks.

Beijing blames the ETIM of trying to separate the Uygur Muslim majority province of Xinjiang- which borders Afghanistan from China. But the Taliban has been facing exasperatingly complex challenges in managing police functions, safeguarding Afghanistan's borders, protecting citizens and fighting the ISIS-K due to lacking in basic professional skills needed to fulfil its promises regarding counter-terrorism operations.

This was the first meeting of Wang and Baradar after the Taliban captured the country. The last meeting was in July in the Chinese city of Tianjin, shortly before the group seized power from Afghanistan's elected government. That was the time when Wang asked the Baradar led Taliban delegation to make a clean break with the ETIM and other terrorist outfits. But that was the time when Baradar was being tipped to head the Taliban government.

Now the Taliban is controlled by the Pakistan supported hardliners led by the members of the infamous Haqqani network. The moderate faces of Taliban like Baradar have been completely side-lined in the Taliban government.

China has not recognized the Taliban government yet but has kept its embassy open as it seeks to expand its economic and political footprint in the war-torn country with which it shares a 76-kilometer border. China's Intelligence Chief Chen Wenqing met the Interior Minister and supremo of militant organisation Sirajuddin Haqqani and conveyed China's frustration because his group has not broken its ties with ETIM as promised. The Chinese spy chief also asked Sirajuddin Haqqani for extradition of prominent members of militant outfit ETIM.

On his part, Baradar briefed Wang on the current situation in Afghanistan, which he claimed is under control and improving. But China, quite visibly, is not convinced. Interestingly, the foreign minister of Taliban regime Amir Khan Muttaqi is also present in Doha. Earlier the Taliban had announced that Muttaqi will be meeting his Chinese counterpart. But, significantly, Wang's first meeting took place with Baradar. Muttaqi will be meeting the Chinese foreign minister and state councillor on Tuesday.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, Oct 26: As the world gears up for a post Covid-19 phase, clamour for regional economic cooperation and integration among South Asian countries especially the Bangladesh Bhutan India Nepal (BBIN) region is growing. In fact, South Asia is one of the least integrated regions in the world, causing mammoth economic losses to the countries including India and Bangladesh.

A recent study by the Netherlands based European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS) said that apart from decreasing the collective economic bargaining power of the region, the lack of regionalization has led to geopolitical implications "as it allows for the enhanced entry of extra-regional actors and extra-regional initiatives, most notably in the context of China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)." The study added that the Chinese infrastructure investment through the BRI and China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) responds to this lack of integration and the associated lack in regional connectivity.

"The BBIN project is a game changer but what is required now is a time-bound implementation of the same," an insider told India Narrative.

The infrastructure initiative will be critical for India at a time when China is expanding its military and economic might through the multi-billion infrastructure BRI.

According to the World Bank, which started a One South Asia campaign just a few months ago, the impact of the "long term scars" emanating from the pandemic could be felt even after economic recovery.

Recently, in a meeting, Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen even raised the issue with the outgoing Nepalese Ambassador to Dhaka Banshidhar Mishra.

"South Asia, as a region, needs to be looked at holistically if the true growth potential is to be achieved," Bipul Chatterjee, Executive Director, CUTS International told India Narrative.

The World Bank also said that intraregional trade now stands at just one-third of its potential with an estimated gap of $23 billion annually. It also said that an electricity market of the BBIN countries would save an estimated $17 billion in capital costs. And improvements in transport and logistics can reduce the 50 per cent higher cost for container shipments in South Asia compared to OECD nations.

"We need to move fast on the BBIN initiative to build better connectivity especially in the post Covid world, which will be a different era with a shift in geopolitics," Nazneen Ahmed Senior Research Fellow, Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS) said earlier.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com) --indianarrative
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Centre has told the Supreme Court that its decision to fix Rs 8 lakh income limit for OBCs and the economically weaker section (EWS) is not arbitrary in the NEET All India Quota, and it was finalised after considering diverse economic factors in different states.

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, in an affidavit filed in the top court, said Rs 8 lakh as a criterion for determination of EWS as also as determination of the "creamy layer" in the OBC category is rational and in keeping with Articles 14, 15, and 16 of the Constitution.

"The exercise conducted to determine the creamy layer for the purpose of OBC reservation would be equally applicable for determination of EWS category since the fundamental premise is that is that if a person/family have a substantial economic standing, he/ she may not require the benefits of reservation at the cost of others," said the affidavit, citing the Major General Sinho Commission report.

The commission had also suggested existing criteria to identify creamy layer among OBCs to EWS families.

The affidavit added that determination of Rs 8 lakh income limit was arrived at after taking into consideration the diverse economic factors in different states as also the diverse economic status between rural and urban areas. However, on account of the criteria being of a national character, Rs 8 lakh was fixed after taking into consideration the test for determination of 'creamy layer', it further added.

The Centre emphasised that there is a difference in purchasing power between rural and urban areas in the sections which are intended to be under EWS reservation -- namely students in higher educational institutions and for employment, there is a constant migration from rural to urban areas.

"Therefore, in view of the above, no separate criterion has been fixed for the rural and urban areas... The determination has to be made on broad probabilities and it is impossible to achieve perfection/mathematical precision," said the affidavit.

The Centre pointed out that even if it takes the cost of living within the city, it varies and if a state is taken, the cost of living varies in its different parts.

"In such circumstances, the broad criteria as applicable to the country alone has to be taken into consideration," it said.

The affidavit said to ensure the provision of reservation in terms of 103rd Constitutional Amendment would not prove to the detriment of other general category students, since the number of seats have been drastically increased by 56 per cent in last year for MBBS and 80 per cent for postgraduate.

On October 21, the top court had questioned the Centre over adopting the criteria of OBC creamy layer of Rs 8 lakh annual income for granting reservations under the EWS, despite the latter not suffering from social and educational backwardness.

"You just cannot pull out eight lakh from thin air. You are making unequal equal by applying the Rs 8 lakh limit," a bench headed by Justice D.Y. Chandrachud told the Centre's counsel.

The bench noted that for OBCs, people who are below the Rs 8 lakh annual income, they suffer from social and educational backwardness. It added: "Under the constitutional scheme, the EWS category is not socially and educationally backward." The Centre's response came on writ petitions challenging 27 per cent reservation for OBCs and 10 per cent reservation for EWS in all-India Quota seats for postgraduate medical courses. As many as 15 per cent seats in MBBS and 50 per cent seats in MS and MD courses are filled through All India Quota from the candidates selected through NEET.
Bengaluru, Oct 26 : The Karnataka High Court on Tuesday dismissed the petition questioning the government's decision of making Covid-19 vaccination compulsory for the employees of industries and commercial establishments.

It also warned the petitioner not to misguide the public.

Petitioner, advocate Syed Shujath Mehdi, had filed the plea questioning the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) circular making the Covid-19 vaccine compulsory for employees of industries and commercial establishments.

The petition was taken up by the division bench headed by Chief Justice Ritu Raj Awasthi, who, after verifying the contents of the petition, opined that the petitioner is misguiding the public by filing a petition in this regard.

"You have taken vaccination and being an advocate, you can't do this. You have to take back the petition otherwise we will be forced to impose heavy penalties and quash the petition," the bench said.

Mehdi submitted that he has been vaccinated himself and he did not question the efficacy of it, but is only contending that the order making vaccination compulsory for industries and hotel staff is incorrect.

The bench, however, said that the Covid vaccination campaign is being taken up with an objective of public health.

"If at all public is facing difficulty they will raise their voice. There is no public interest in your petition and it seems it is being submitted to gain publicity. If at all you want to withdraw the petition, the court will accept it. Otherwise, the court will have to impose heavy penalties and quash the petition," the bench warned.

At this, Mehdi agreed to withdraw the petition and the court allowed him to do so.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Days after the Isak-Muivah faction of the National Social Council of Nagalim (NSCN-IM) issued two statements stating that they were adamant on their demand for separate Constitution and flag, the rebel outfit has issued a clarification now, saying that their earlier statements were misquoted by the media.

Issuing a clarification, the rebel leaders said that they along with the Central government have been serious and committed to resolve the issue through the Indo-Naga political talks and they are also willing to arrive at a tangible solution based on the principle of Framework Agreement signed in 2015. The recent statements issued by the rebel outfit were misquoted by the media and also created confusion among people, they added in a fresh statement.

"Despite differences on certain issues, it is to put on record that the Gol and the NSCN are serious and committed to concretize the Indo-Naga political talks and arrive at a tangible solution based on the principle of Framework Agreement", the Naga rebel leaders said.

The principal Naga group issued two separate statements on October 15 and 23 reiterating that they would not be carried away by the "post solution narrative" of the government, which they described it as a well laid trap by the central government and cannot compromise on the demand of separate Constitution and flag.

It was learnt that the government's interlocutor A.K. Mishra had strongly objected to NSCN's statements and had communicated his resentment to the rebel leaders in the last meeting held recently.

The sources, aware of these developments said that the two statements issued by the rebel group were not appreciated by the government's interlocutor and officials involved in negotiation and they resented that when the talks have been underway how they could issue such press notes? The narratives stated in the statement could be seen as a pressure tactics, the sources added.

They also said that when the Naga peace talks resumed with the new interlocutor after a gap of two years, it was assumed that the issues will be resolved by the end of this year within the principle of the Framework Agreement signed in August, 2015. In their last press note, the NSCN leaders, pressing their demand for separate flag, had stated that the Naga flag was not just a piece of cloth to the Nagas but a feeling of pride which helped hundreds of Naga martyrs to sacrifice their lives by just seeing the flag flying high and NSCN would take the stand to defend it to the last man standing and not succumb to the flattering 'post solution' offer.

Both Centre and the Naga leaders had indicated to be keen on resolving this long pending issue by the end of this year in an amicable manner.

The NSCN-IM and the other outfits entered into a ceasefire agreement with the Government of India in 1997 and over 80 rounds of negotiations with the Centre had been held in the past in successive governments.
Amritsar, Oct 26 : With the financial assistance of the US-based United Sikh Mission, a 525 KW capacity solar power plant was commissioned in the holiest of Sikh shrines, Harmandir Sahib, popularly known as Golden Temple, in Amritsar on Tuesday.

"Our mission is to ensure clean power supply round the clock at Sri Darbar Sahib, saving 33 per cent of its annual electricity bill," United Sikh Mission President Rashpal Singh Dhindsa told the media here.

He said this was an effort towards sustainability and reducing global warming that would help save 2,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (C02) emission.

The work was completed in five months.

Expressing gratitude to the United Sikh Mission, Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee President Bibi Jagir Kaur said that a 78 KW solar power plant would be installed soon in Gurdwara Baba Deep Singh and 700 KW in Gurdwara Bir Baba Budha Sahib.

Noting that the monthly electricity budget of Darbar Sahib is around Rs 50-60 lakh, she urged the global Sikh community to contribute towards the initiative of empowering Darbar Sahib with renewable energy.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A number of women took to the streets of Kabul on Tuesday to protest against the closed schools for girls and accused the international community of being silent about what is going on in Afghanistan, Khaama Press reported.

The women who had gathered at the gates of UNAMA in Kabul said that the international community, human rights group, and the United Nations are completely indifferent to the restrictions imposed by the Taliban on Afghan women.

The protesters said that the silence of the UN against the ongoing situation in Afghanistan is "shameful".

The women chanted "rights to education, rights to work, are the fundamental rights of women" and "history will be ashamed of the silence of the UN".

In the meantime, the Afghan women wanted to get a chance to meet with the head of UNAMA Deborah Lyons to talk to her about women's rights and to submit her letter in this regard, the report said.

In a parallel all-women demonstration in Kabul, women asked for the opening of schools for girls and said that their rights should not be violated.
Panaji, Oct 26 : The Goa BJP on Tuesday said that former state Governor Satya Pal Malik had exceeded the boundaries of decorum and urged him to first resign from the constitutional post, before passing adverse remarks about a democratically elected government.

The tough positioning of the state BJP comes a day after Malik, who is currently the Governor of Meghalaya while speaking to a national news channel on Monday, accused the BJP-led coalition government in Goa of indulging in rampant corruption even when the pandemic was at its peak.

"I only have to say (to Malik) that do not criticise my government while occupying a constitutional post. Resign first and then say whatever you want," BJP state general secretary Damu Naik told a press conference in Panaji on Tuesday.

"A person holding the post of a Governor has behaved in an unconstitutional manner. He currently occupies the post of Governor (of Meghalaya). He has behaved unconstitutionally and blabbered incessantly. This is wrong. If there was something wrong, the Governor should have sent a report to the home ministry," Naik further said.

Naik's comment comes on a day when all opposition parties, including the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party and the Trinamool Congress in Goa demanded the resignation of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant over Malik's statement. Malik had said that corruption was evident in "any and everything" in Goa and also accused the state government of graft in handing out rations to the people of the state during the lockdown last year.

Leaders from the Trinamool Congress and Goa Forward party also submitted a memorandum to Governor P.S. Sreedharan urging him to sack the Sawant-led cabinet, even as AAP workers were arrested for staging a protest in Panaji to demand the resignation of the Chief Minister.

Naik however claimed that the demands made by the opposition were outlandish and added that there was a conspiracy behind Malik's comments.

"Why (did he say this) with just one month to go for the elections? Who is behind this? Whose conspiracy is this? He did not raise this issue when he was Governor. Did we put a tape on his mouth at that time?" Naik said.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah will address inaugural session of three-day national conference on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two decades as head of government here.

Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini, a leadership development academy, will be organising a conference from October 27 to 29 at the India International Centre.

Shah will inaugurate the conference and inaugural session will be presided by former Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadanvis.

BJP chief J.P. Nadda will be the chief guest for the concluding session of conference on October 29.

Other prominent speakers of the conference are union ministers Nirmala Sitharaman and Dharmendra Pradhan, BJP national vice president Baijayant Panda and former Bihar deputy chief minister Sushil Modi.

In a statement Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini said this conference is a unique academic event, covering a wide variety of issues about Prime Minister Modi's governance record of the past two decades, and featuring a whole galaxy of entrepreneurs, scholars, policymakers and intellectuals who have worked with the PM, written about his contributions in different issue areas, and studied his policy approaches, and implemented many of his landmark initiatives.

"The main themes of this national conference include PM Modi's 'Art of Implementation,' reforms in education and skill development, landmark economic policies and outlooks ('Modinomics'), his approach to poverty alleviation and social welfare, his lead role in promoting science and technology, his transformative interventions in the agricultural sector, his foreign policy achievements to make India a 'leading power' in the world, his management of the Covid-19 pandemic and improvements in healthcare, and his uplifting agenda for social justice of weaker sections and gender equity," the Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini said.

Speaking about the significance of this comprehensive national conference on behalf of the organizing institution, Member of Parliament Dr Vinay Sahasrabuddhe said, "PM Modi's record of the last 20 years has been multi-dimensional and highly impactful on a whole cross-section of policymaking areas." "We are organizing this conference to record the journey of how he could convert his broad-ranging vision of social well-being and national renaissance into reality and reflect upon how he has remodeled Indian democracy through the delivery of good governance in our country. Both the 'Gujarat model' and the 'India model' have been recognized as important milestones in the evolution of ideas about socio-economic change and empowerment of the masses within the context of developing countries that are democratic," Sahasrabuddhe said.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 26 : A school boy was taken in custody for allegedly molesting a college girl in Kerala's Malappuram, police said on Tuesday.

According to Malappurram Superintendent of Police Sujith Das, the incident occurred near Kondotty in the district.

The incident took place on Monday, when the girl was on her way to the college.

According to her, the 15-year-old followed her and attacked her, hen gagged and bound her and forcibly took her to a deserted area where he tore her clothes and attempted to assault her sexually.

When the girl resisted, the boy, also a school level judo champion, hit her with a stone.

But she managed to flee and take shelter in a nearby house.

Based on her complaint, the police launched an investigation.

On Tuesday morning, the boy was called for questioning during which he admitted to having committed the crime.

The boy had also suffered injuries during the rape attempt and when his parents asked, he told them that he was bitten by a dog.

He has no criminal track record, police said.

The girl is in hospital for treatment.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Income Tax Department carried out search and seizure operations in the cases of two groups based in Punjab.

The search action in case of the first group was initiated on October 21. This group is engaged in Cycle business. The department said that based on investigation it found that the group has been involved in suppression of income by showing bogus intra-group transactions within group concerns.

The group was also found to have been involved in receiving a substantial part of sale consideration in cash and thereby suppressing the turnover. The seized documents reveal suppression of turnover of around Rs 90 crore per annum. Incriminating documents related to the undisclosed sale of scrap have also been seized, the department said in a statement.

The search also revealed undisclosed investments by the group members in immovable properties.

The search action has led to detection of unaccounted income of about Rs 150 crore and seizure of unaccounted cash of Rs 2.25 crore and unaccounted gold of Rs 2 crore.

In the second case, the IT launched searches on a group based in Jalandhar that is engaged in providing immigration and study visa related services to students. The search action in this group was initiated on October 18.

The I-T department said that the search action on this group revealed that they used to charge a package, ranging between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 15 lakh per student, depending on the country where the student wished to pursue education. Almost the entire receipts of the group, aggregating to more than Rs 200 crore in the last 5 years are in cash.

It has also been found that the bank accounts of the employees have been used to receive money, which has subsequently been withdrawn in cash. The profit earned from such receipts has never been disclosed in the Income Tax Returns filed. Only the commission received from foreign universities has been shown as receipts in the Income Tax Returns by the members of the group.

The search action has led to detection of unaccounted income of about Rs 40 crore. The search action has also resulted in seizure of unaccounted cash of Rs 20 lakh and seizure of unaccounted jewellery of Rs 33 lakh.

Further investigations are in progress in both the groups.
Chandigarh, Oct 26 : Reacting strongly to the IGI airport authorities sending Darshan Singh Dhaliwal back to the US after denying him entry to India, five-time Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal on Tuesday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to "intervene personally and effectively" to get the order vacated.

Badal also requested the PM to personally invite Dhaliwal as a "goodwill gesture which will send a great positive signal to NRIs".

Dhaliwal was sent back from the Indira Gandhi International airport on October 23-24 night with the authorities saying that this was being done as a punishment for organizing a 'langar' or community kitchen for agitating farmers on Delhi borders.

Calling it as an affront to the "sacred practice of 'langar' started by the great Guru Sahiban", Badal also urged Modi to take stern action against the erring officials who "brought a bad name to the country with their action".

Badal said organising or sponsoring a sacred socio-religious work such as 'langar' has always been regarded as one of the highest and noblest duties for every devout follower of Sikhism.

"Doing so for the country's 'annadata' (bread winners) is a noble task that needs to be emulated rather than penalized." Calling the on-going agitation of farmers "a national movement", Badal said there was nothing wrong or illegal in helping those taking part in this civilized, peaceful, democratic movement.

The former Punjab CM also spelt an agenda for agriculture, which, includes revocation of three black laws, taking stakeholders on board before any legislation affecting them, setting up a panel with farmers and farm experts to advise the government on agriculture policies and enlarging of the list of crops for ensured marketing with MSP.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that trust has developed among people that corrupt will not go scot-free due to transparent system in the country.

In his message on vigilance awareness week being observed from October 26, Prime Minister Modi said, "The present government in the country has trust in its citizens. Faith has developed among people that corrupt will not go scot-free due to transparent systems in the country." "With the mantra of 'sabka sath, sabka vikas, sabka vishwas, sabka prayas', the country has progressed fast in last seven years with policy of zero tolerance against corruption," Modi said.

Prime Minister further said that the hardwork, awareness and sense of responsibility of the people towards country and society has a crucial role in nation's development journey.

The Prime Minister lauded the theme of vigilance awareness week - 'Independent India @75: A self reliance with integrity'.

In message on vigilance awareness week, Union Home Minister Amit Shah said, "Self reliance with integrity is vision of new India, that could be achieved by people by strengthening moral values and integrity in daily life. We all are committed together to fight corruption and other immoral social evils." Defence minister Rajnath Singh said, "Corruption free system is very important for a meaningful democracy." In his message education minister Dharmendra Pradhan said, "The mission of a self-reliant India is one that all the citizens of the country are working towards the ideals of integrity and ethics, as envisaged by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, to remain integral in this journey that this great nation has undertaken towards self-reliance." Union Minister Bhupender Yadav in his message said, "The Commission (Central Vigilance Commission) has been adopting different methods to achieve the aim of making the system efficient, transparent and accountable and it has adopted a multi-pronged approach by combining punitive, preventive and participative vigilance for combating corruption."
New Delhi, Oct 26 : India and the Asian Development Bank on Tuesday signed a $4.5 million project readiness financing (PRF) loan to support project preparation and design activities to improve urban mobility in Mizoram's capital Aizawl.

After signing the agreement, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, in the Finance Ministry, Rajat Kumar Mishra said that the PRF supports the development of long-term solutions to improve urban mobility in Aizawl by identifying high-priority urban transport investments for the ensuing project and enhance its readiness by supporting due diligence and other preparatory activities.

ADB's India Resident Mission Country Director Takeo Konishi said: "The PRF will develop a Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) for Aizawl that outlines the urban transport development strategy and build synergies with urban development planning initiatives in the state, and promote climate and disaster resilience, and gender inclusiveness in its interventions." Urban mobility in Aizawl, the centre of Mizoram's administrative and service industry, is severely constrained due to rapid and unplanned urbanisation. This results in traffic congestion on narrow road widths, and adversely impacts road safety, efficiency in movement of people and goods, and environmental sustainability.

The ensuing project, being developed through the PRF, seeks to resolve the city's transport problems by adopting sustainable urban mobility solutions. The PRF will conduct feasibility studies for prioritised projects identified in the CMP, and prepare detailed project reports and detailed design for the ensuing project. It will help develop institutional capacity of the state's Urban Development and Poverty Alleviation Department in pre-implementation and project preparation activities.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Chinese companies operating in Sudan are facing a sudden and unexpected suspension of work and production, and they've summoned their workers to their base offices in response to the escalating situation in the country Monday, Global Times reported.

Tension and risks of uncertainty linger, especially after the cut-offs of internet service and mobile networks, as well as a reported backlog of containers at Port Sudan. Analysts said that the potential disruption to Chinese businesses could be big.

PowerChina, a leading player in global electricity generation, has 31 workers in the country and all are safe, but in order to deal with the fluid situation, the company established an emergency response team to reassure the workers.

The company has two projects related to hydropower and water supply in Sudan. One has been completed, while the other is still under construction -- but work is now halted.

A manager at a Chinese company told Phoenix TV Monday that he had problems contacting the local Chinese community and embassy due to the internet and mobile service suspension. Amid the political instability, he has stockpiled enough items to live off for about two weeks.

The Sudanese military detained key officials of the transitional government, significantly increasing the risk of political unrest in the country.

Internet service and mobile phone networks have also been interrupted, and bridges were closed by the military, Sudan's Ministry of Information and Communications said ON Monday.

The information department of the Sudan transitional government said Monday that soldiers detained Prime Minister, Abdalla Hamdok, and several ministers and non-military members of the Sudanese Sovereignty Council.

After the detention, the Chinese Embassy issued a safety alert requesting that all Chinese-funded institutions in the country should immediately activate contingency plans, gather their personnel and temporarily suspend production, the report said.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Novartis has launched a strategic review of the Sandoz division, the company said Tuesday. All options are on the table, including retaining the business and separation, Fierce Pharma reported.

A decision won't happen overnight; Novartis said it plans to offer an update on the review by the end of next year.

The company has previously tried to offload the under-pressure US oral solids business, together with a dermatology franchise, to India's Aurobindo Pharma for about $1 billion. But the two had to abandon the sale last Spring after hitting an antitrust review setback with the US Federal Trade Commission, the report said.

Sandoz has faced industrywide pressure on generics drug pricing, especially in the US, since around 2017. In the first nine months of 2021, Sandoz's sales in the US declined 17 per cent, while the whole unit's haul dropped 4 per cent year over year at constant currencies to $7.11 billion, the report said.

Novartis' solution for the franchise focuses on biosimilars and complex generics. Last month, Sandoz in-licensed a copycat referencing Roche's anti-VEGF drug Avastin from China's Bio-Thera Solutions. The firm is also in late-stage development of a biosimilar to Regeneron's top-selling VEGF inhibitor Eylea for eye diseases. But its launch of a biosim version of Amgen's TNF inhibitor Enbrel has been significantly delayed after legal defeats, the report said.

Sandoz plans to launch six biosimilar products across the US and EU in the next few years, and it has about 15 biosim programs internally or through partnerships, Sandoz CEO Richard Saynor told investors during a call Tuesday.

Novartis' goal is to make Sandoz a leading player in the generics market with stable sales growth at mid-single digit and profit margins around mid- to high-20 per cent. In the third quarter, Sandoz's profit margin reached 23.8 per cent, decreasing 3.4 percentage points.

As part of making Sandoz an autonomous unit within the group, Novartis has done some housekeeping work in the past few years. Sandoz's manufacturing operations have separated from the group's, Novartis CEO Vas Narasimhan told investors in April.
New Delhi/Srinagar, Oct 26 : Union Home Minister Amit Shah wound up his 3-day J&K visit by spending a night at a Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) camp at Lethpora in South Kashmir's Pulwama district. He extended his J&K visit to be with soldiers. It was a strong message to adversaries that India's leadership and armed forces are on the same page.

Out of all places he chose Pulwama, where 40 CRPF men were martyred in a suicide attack on February 14, 2019. The attack carried out by Jaish militants had brought India and Pakistan to a precipice. India avenged the attack by carrying out airstrikes at Balakote deep within the Pakistan territory. Had the world powers not intervened, India-Pakistan war was inevitable.

The Pulwama attack led to the Centre revamping its Kashmir strategy. A massive crackdown was launched against militants and their sympathizers in the Valley and National investigation Agency (NIA) broke the back of terror funding by choking the Hawala channels through which illegal money used to flow to sponsor violence, street protests and stone pelting in Kashmir.

Soon after BJP won the 2019 parliamentary elections with a thumping majority, the dispensation led by PM Modi gave a final shape to "Mission Kashmir" and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, was assigned the task to scrap J&K's special status and merge the erstwhile princely State into Union of India completely.

The task was accomplished on August 5, 2019, when the Centre announced its decision to "bite the bullet." It abrogated Articles 370 and 35-A, which provided special privileges to residents of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions along with it the Himalayan region was divided into two Union Territories, J&K and Ladakh.

Eventful visit The 3-day J&K visit of Amit Shah, which was his first after the abrogation of Article 370, was eventful as he touched each and every aspect. He inaugurated development projects, chaired a security review meeting in Srinagar, addressed a rally in Jammu, met the youth in Kashmir and visited border village Makwal close to the Line of Control in Jammu region.

The Union Home Minister made it clear that he would talk to Kashmiri youth and not Pakistan. He sent a clear message to the traditional politicians of the Valley that what they couldn't do in 70-years, the government led by PM Modi has done it within two years.

Amit Shah gave a clear signal that the Centre wants inclusive Jammu and Kashmir which would comprise of Muslims, Pandits, Hindus, Sikhs and members of the other communities. The time has changed and no one can dominate the narrative and discourse in Jammu and Kashmir. The Valley based politicians need to understand that they can no longer blackmail the Centre nor can they claim that they are the only ones who are born to rule Jammu and Kashmir.

The Union Home Minister laid bare the roadmap for J&K by announcing that after the delimitation exercise (process to redraw parliamentary and assembly constituencies) gets completed assembly elections will be held and after that statehood would be restored.

He gave a clear message to militants, their handlers sitting across the Line of Control and their sympathizers that no one would be allowed to disrupt the peace, progress and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.

Speculation put at rest Amit Shah's J&K visit proved to be a complete package. It put many speculations to rest and drove home a point that the Centre is interested in the people and not the traditional politicians, who are still harping about holding talks with Pakistan.

Addressing an event at SKICC in Srinagar, Shah said that Kashmiri youth should sit back and think what good did such people do, who placed stones and weapons in their hands. "They talk about Pakistan. Pakistan occupied Kashmir is nearby, ask whether villages there have electricity, hospitals, medical colleges, drinking water, toilets for women. There is nothing there and these people talk about Pakistan. I have come to tell you that you have as much right in India as any citizen of India. You have as much right to development and the treasury of the Government of India as every citizen of India has. The people of Kashmir have to take this process forward with determination," he said while interacting with the youth.

The Union Home Minister said that 40,000 people were killed and these people (Kashmiri leaders) always kept saying talk to Pakistan, talk to the Hurriyat, and what was the result? They destroyed tourism in the Valley. They never condemned terrorism.

Shah said that from March 2020 to March 2021, 1,31,000tourists from India and abroad visited Jammu and Kashmir, which is the highest figure since Independence. "Those disturbing peace wanted no industry to come up, youth to remain unemployed and indulge in stone pelting. We want youth to pick up books instead of stones, instruments instead of weapons and to make their life," he added.

While addressing a rally in Jammu, the Union Home Minister told Jammu people that the era of injustice with them is over and now, no one would ignore them. "You have faced injustice for years but now Jammu and Kashmir will develop together and both will take India forward together," he said.

Youth hold the key In both the regions i.e. Kashmir and Jammu, Amit Shah asked the people to have faith in Government of India and country's leadership. He minced no words to make it clear that anti-nationals won't be tolerated and anyone who tries to challenge India's sovereignty will have to face the consequences.

Amit Shah's maiden visit to J&K after the historic decision of August 5, 2019, assumed more significance in the backdrop of the recent civilian killings in the Valley. In the ongoing month militants shot dead eleven civilians, including nine from the minority communities. He assured the people that no one will be allowed to spill the innocent blood anymore and minorities in J&K will be protected as the "New Jammu and Kashmir" belongs to all the communities.

His visit has encouraged the security forces to launch a final assault against the militants so that militancy and violence are eradicated from J&K completely. The Union Home Minister ended his visit on a positive note. His message was clear that all the debates over J&K have been settled. Youth hold the key to make a new beginning and they need to come forward.
Chennai, Oct 26 : The Tamil Nadu Health Department would conduct the next mega Covid vaccination camp on October 30 at 50,000 centres across the state, Health Minister Ma Subramanian said on Tuesday.

As Subramanian and state Health Secretary, Dr. J. Radhakrishnan would be attending a meeting called by Union Health Minister Mansukh L. Mandaviya at New Delhi on Wednesday to apprise states of the next course of action regarding vaccination as the country has crossed the 100 crore mark already, the state has a list of demands ready.

Talking to IANS, Subramanian said: "We have chalked out our list of demands to be presented before the Union Health Minister. We will definitely demand 10 lakh doses of Covaxin as there are several people across the state who have taken the first dose of Covaxin." He also said that the state government requires a vaccine depot to store the vaccine and vehicles to transport them across the state. He said that the state has 11 new medical colleges and would elevate these medical colleges as district headquarters hospitals, adding they have also proposed 19 district headquarters hospitals.

"We will request Rs 50 crore for each district headquarter hospital," he said.

The minister also said that the state government would request the Centre to provide sanctions for 800 more medical seats in the newly-formed 11 medical colleges in the state.

"Earlier only 850 seats were sanctioned and the inspection committee constituted by the Government of India had visited these colleges and urged the state to complete the infrastructure required in four of these new colleges and we have completed it. The inspection committee is satisfied with this after they have conducted a virtual inspection," he said.

Meanwhile, Subramanian called upon the people to be on guard during the festive season as Diwali celebrations has already commenced in the state.

He also said that the students attending colleges could be administered vaccines as the Indian Council of Medical Research has allowed this.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : During the two days of high-level talks in the Qatari capital city of Doha, the Chinese delegation and Taliban officials agreed to work on strengthening diplomatic relations and implementing Chinese projects in Afghanistan, Tolo News reported.

Zabiullah Mujahid, a spokesman of the Islamic Emirate, said on Tuesday that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Afghan Deputy PM Abdul Ghani Baradar and Amir Khan Muttaqi in Doha, and Beijing promised to provide $5 million in humanitarian aid to Afghanistan.

"Three committees will be created: the first committee is working on political and diplomatic relations, the second will focus on creating relations and understanding between the two countries, and the third committee is working on economic projects," said Mujahid.

"At the meeting, some prominent issues including political and economic topics were discussed," said Bilal Karimi, deputy spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, the report said.

According to the Islamic Emirate's political office in Doha, Baradar assured Beijing that Afghan territory will never be use against any country and the Chinese delegation in return pledged to not interfere to Afghanistan's affairs.

Meanwhile, China's Foreign Ministry said the talks will "provide an opportunity to have an in-depth exchange of views on Afghanistan's situation and issues of joint concern." China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said that China has always showed a willingness to negotiate and work for the development of Afghanistan, and the country is attempting to assist Afghans.
Thiruvananthapuram, Oct 26 : With just few more days for the schools in Kerala to open after a gap of 18 months, state Transport Minister Antony Raju on Tuesday said that an "elaborate students transport protocol" is in place.

All schools in the state will open on November 1, which incidentally is also celebrated as Kerala Formation Day.

Raju told the Assembly that the detailed protocol is be observed while travelling in both school and public transport buses and both the students and the bus staff have to strictly follow the Covid protocols.

"Thermal scanners have to be kept in all buses and as soon as the students enter the bus, the temperature has to be taken, hands sanitised, all should compulsory wear a mask and all should maintain social distancing. And at the end of the day, all buses have to be sanitised also," said Raju.

He also said that with many buses not operating for several months, the vehicles should pass fitness tests before they are put in service.

"Motor Vehicle officials will personally inspect all the school buses. The workshops of the state-run KSRTC workshops can be used by the school authorities, in case they need, for repairs. In case, schools require more buses, these will be provided if they make requests with the KSRTC and rates will be very competitive. Likewise, the KSRTC also will operate more services and all the present concessions for student travel will also be applicable," said Raju.

It has been decided that in the initial weeks of school opening, there will be no uniform and attendance.

The curriculum for study in the first few weeks will be more of a welcoming back and would centre around on well being and such issues, with the regular curriculum being kept in abeyance for a while.

More decisions with regards on the exact nature of classes will be made out by an expert committee which is preparing the road map for it and for a while, there will be only 25 per cent student strength in a class, with students coming to school in turns.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Massive congestion at major shipping ports in China has completely disrupted the supply chain and trade to Mongolia.

Mongolia mostly depends on its ports situated on the China-Mongolia border, particularly the Tianjin and Dalian ports as well as the Erenhort land port for conducting its national trade. Mongolia, which is bordered and landlocked by both China and Russia, relies exclusively on there Chinese ports for access to economic trade and supply with other countries.

The extended and prolonged congestion, especially at the Tianjin port, has created a multitude of issues for Mongolia as currently 4,378 shipping containers are congested at Tianjin which further require expenditure in the form of container rental payments and storage fees, increasing costs for Mongolia.

As per CEO O.Davaasuren of the Mongolian Association of United Cargo and Freight, an NGO, the rental costs have increased from $10 to $50 per day, in addition to which the CEO claims as Mongolia is a landlocked, developing country, transportation costs are high compared to other countries.

Davaasuren has gone on to further state that: "In addition, there is the issue of freight transportation on the Erlian-Zamiin-Uud route. The price of a truck used to be 7,000-8,000 yuan, but now it is 40,000 yuan. Shipments that arrived in Ulaanbaatar in 6-7 days have been coming for 20 days or more. It also takes goods from imported containers and returns empty containers by rail or road. This can also lead to agglomeration with export trucks. There are a lot of transportation and logistics issues like this." Davaasuren highlighted more pressing issues when asked about the number of containers stuck at the Tianjin port and how Mongolia intends to resolve the issue.

As per Davaasuren, an estimated 4,000 containers are stuck at the Tianjin port and since late April, the containers have not moved yet. He claims this is concerning as most of the cargo coming to Mongolia from countries such as Japan, Korea, Turkey and the US passes through the Tianjin port.

On an average, containers are transported to the port in 5-7 days, but now it takes up to 30 or sometimes upwards of 40 days which shoots up rental and storage costs by a significant amount.

When asked on solutions to be worked out with the Chinese foreign ministry, Davaasuren said their NGO had contacted the Chinese authorities and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where they proposed that to reduce the congestion at the ports, it is important to increase the number of container trains to Mongolia by an estimated 2-3 times.

The NGO has also released a statement recently that only one train is going towards Mongolia, which has done little to help with the slowdown of movement of goods through the Tianjin port.

The lackadaisical efforts by the Chinese authorities have not made any significant impact in trying to resolve the Tianjin port congestion issue as despite other containers now commencing movement, the volume and pressure at the port has remained unchanged, which has caused a domino effect on prices of freight, containers, rentals, and storage which negatively affect import based small businesses.

The crisis between Mongolia and China has only worsened as COSCO Shipping Organisation, a CCP controlled transportation conglomerate that controls and oversees all sea freight by rail deliveries bound for Mongolia has recently appointed an exclusive agent to represent COSCO's business interests in Mongolia, a move which has been criticised by manufacturers and traders in Mongolia.

As per a local news agency Monstame, this poses a bigger challenge for local freight forwarders as earlier they could receive containers directly from COSCO, but now all such decisions would be overseen first by the locally appointed exclusive agent which increases clearance and delivery timelines, along with additional costs that passed down to the general public.

Clearing the Tianjin port congestion is essential to the Mongolian economy as its landlocked layout forces the country to completely reply on China and Russia for conducting its global trade.
Kolkata, Oct 26 : The rift between Trinamool Congress and Congress widened after the former's Rajya Sabha member and spokesperson Sukhendu Sekhar Roy on Tuesday said that his party will not wait for an indefinite period with the hope that Congress will bring all the opposition under a single umbrella.

"During the last session of Parliament and soon after the Assembly elections of West Bengal, our Chairperson Mamata Banerjee visited Delhi and she met (Congress chief) Sonia Gandhi and some other leaders of different political parties. She appealed to all of them to come under one umbrella at the earliest to take on the challenges of the BJP seriously," Roy said in a press briefing soon after new inductee Sushmita Dev, who switched over from the Congress, took oath as a Rajya Sabha member on Tuesday.

"She (Banerjee) had requested Sonia Gandhi to take the initiative and call meetings of like-minded parties to prepare a common plan of action so that a nationwide campaign can be built up against the BJP. Thereafter our party waited but it seems the Congress was probably busy with its internal issues. Trinamool Congress could not wait indefinitely," he added.

"We have decided to expand our party organisations in different states and our national General Secretary Abhishek Banerjee oversees that. These things are to be decided by our party's top decision-making body. We have started the process. Now, it will depend on Congress and other parties if they want to come under one umbrella or go alone," Roy said.

Asked whether the Trinamool would form an alliance with the Congress or any other party to fight the BJP in future, he said: "It all depends on the Congress and other parties. They will decide whether to stay under one umbrella or fight separately against the BJP." Roy also refuted the allegations that his party was poaching Congress leaders. "Switching parties is not new in Indian politics and recently people from other parties, like Kanhaiya Kumar, have also joined Congress. Trinamool never called it poaching of leaders," he said.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : The Supreme Court on Tuesday reserved its judgment in connection with the issue of reservation in promotion to Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) in government jobs.

The Centre had earlier told the Supreme Court that granting reservation in promotion to SC/ST employees would not adversely affect the efficiency of the administration.

A bench headed by Justice Nageswara Rao, after hearing all the parties, including Attorney General K.K. Venugopal along with another lawyer for the Centre, and also many senior lawyers appearing for various state governments, reserved judgment.

The AG had submitted that deciding adequacy of representation by SCs and STs in educational institutions or in government employment, the basis of reservation must be kept in mind to decide what should be the standard to be applied for deciding adequacy.

The Centre said for government employees, the proportion of population of SCs to the total population of the country, and, similarly, the proportion of population of the STs to the total population, has been taken.

"The most certain and definite way of finding out if there is inadequacy is to find out if, to implement affirmative action, which was the basis of providing for reservation, the standard laid down looking at the proportion of the SC and STs to the population of the country or the state in question was followed. This standard would be certain and definite," it said.

The top court had earlier made it clear that it will not reopen its decision on granting reservation in promotion to SCs and STs and added that it was for the state governments to decide how they will implement the same.

The Centre pointed out that the proportion to the population of SCs was 15 per cent, the STs was 7.5 per cent, and the proportion of OBCs to the total population of the country was 52 per cent.

"If the entirety of the population of all these three classes were to find seats and posts reserved in proportion to the totality of their population, what would have to be reserved is 74.5 per cent, which would defeat the limit of 50 per cent (ceiling limit for reservation)."
Bhopal, Oct 26 : A group of social organisations seeking justice for the victims of Bhopal Gas Tragedy have launched a 37-day campaign across the city on Tuesday.

During the campaign, the members of social organisations will be highlighting the concerns of the affected families to commemorate the 37th anniversary of the disaster.

Through the campaign - 'Bhopal Disaster 37 years: 37 questions' they (NGOs) would be highlighting concerns regarding compensation, criminal justice, medical and environmental remediation of polluted lands, said a member of campaign organising team.

Rashida Bee, president of Bhopal Gas Peedit Mahila Karmachari Sangh said, "During the campaign survivors of disaster will be asking one question every day from the government. We would also present data on what the government has done in the last 37 years for families affected with the gas tragedy." They said that Dow Chemical USA's business in India has grown dramatically and the company has ignored six successive summons issued by the Bhopal district court to appear in the criminal case.

"Our questions are -- how can the Indian government allow a company that does not even obey the laws of the land to do business in the country," said another activist of the group.

Rachna Dhingra, another activist questioned the central and the state government's competence and integrity to address issues of medical care and rehabilitation of survivors.

"We will be asking questions on issues of ongoing contamination and remediation of the land in and out around the abandoned Union Carbide factory," Dhingra added.

Over 15,000 people died after methyl isocyanate leaked from the pesticide plant of Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) on the outskirts of the city on the inetervening night of December 2-3, 1984.

More than five lakh people were affected in one way or the other due to the leak of the toxic gas.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : A three-year-old girl was reunited with her family under 'Operation Milap', police said on Tuesday.

According to the police, "An information was received at PS Hazrat Nizamuddin regarding one unattended minor girl aged 3 years who was found loitering in the compound of Dargah." The unattended child was taken into custody and search of her guardians was taken up.

With help of the CCTV footage of the cameras installed in the vicinity of the dargah and door to door verification along with the photograph of the traced girl, her family was found.

The traced girl was safely handed over to her father after due verification with the team of PS Hazrat Nizamuddin, police said in a statement.
Amaravati, Oct 26 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy released the second tranche of YSR Rythu Bharosa, YSR Sunna Vaddi crop loans, and YSR Yantra Seva schemes into accounts of beneficiaries on Tuesday. A total of Rs 2,190 crore was credited to the accounts of beneficiaries under the three schemes.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said "In the past, farmers in Andhra Pradesh were so burdened that they would end their lives. Now the state has flourished into an example for farmer welfare, so much so that other states are replicating out farmer welfare schemes." Under Rythu Bharosa, the state government is extending financial assistance of Rs 13,500 per year to eligible farmers in 3 instalments. So far, the state government has disbursed Rs 18,777 crore in two years to the farmers through this scheme, including the present release of funds of Rs 2,052 crore to 50.37 lakh farmers as the second tranche of this scheme for the 3rd consecutive year.

Under YSR Sunna Vaddi or Zero interest crop loans, Rs 112.7 crore has been released to 6.67 lakh beneficiaries.

The YSR Yantra Seva Padhakam is a scheme designed to help farmers with limited means to overcome the shortage of farming machinery, by providing them with necessary machinery and tools on a rental basis through community hiring centers (CHCs) that are attached to the RBKs.

Officials said that 10,750 CHCs have been established at a cost of Rs 2,134 crore. Besides these 10,750 CHCs, the state government is setting up 1,035 CHC clusters with combined harvesters in Krishna, Guntur, and the two Godavari districts where farming, particularly paddy cultivation is more. These clusters have additional equipment at the disposal of the farmers. On Tuesday the chief minister virtually deposited a subsidy amount of Rs 25.55 crore to 1,720 farmer groups under this scheme.

The state government has been encouraging farmers to register their produce under E-Crop to avail services such as YSR free crop insurance, YSR Sunna Vaddi, and minimum support price for crop production.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Delhi Police on Tuesday said that they have busted an interstate gang of arms smugglers and arrested two accused involved in supply of illegal weapons to gangsters in Delhi NCR and neighbouring states. A cache of arms, including 15 semi-automatic pistols of .32 with 30 live cartridges, was recovered from their possession.

"The arrested persons were identified as Shakir (28) and Zunaid Khan (21), both residents of Nuh in Haryana," police said.

Police said that the duo was supplying the illegal firearms from Madhya Pradesh to Delhi NCR, Haryana, Punjab and UP.

On Monday, acting on a tip-off, a team of Special Cell led by Inspector Ishwar Singh under the supervision of ACP Attar Singh, arrested the accused persons from near Surajkund turning MB Road in the national capital.

In a continuing drive against the illegal arms suppliers operating in the city, the special cell had information about the firearms trafficking activities of a gang led by Shakir based in Mewat in Haryana. Secret sources were deployed to gather more information and after continuous efforts of more than two months, a specific information was received by SI Devender Bhati on Monday about the movement of Shakir near MB road. During the checking, a suspicious person carrying a backpack was spotted coming towards the road. He was identified as Shakir by the informer. After five minutes, Zunaid Khan arrived near Shakir who handed over a bag to him. Both the persons were surrounded and overpowered by the members of team.

A case under section 25(8) of Arms (Amendment) Act, 2019 was registered in PS Special Cell in this regard.

Police said, during the interrogation, Shakir has disclosed that he had procured the recovered pistols and cartridges from an illegal firearms manufacturer of Khargone in MP. He has further disclosed that he alongwith his other associates including Zunaid Khan has been indulging in the supply of illegal firearms and ammunition in Delhi NCR, Haryana, Punjab and UP for the last 3 years.

Zunaid Khan has disclosed that he was lured by Shakir to join his syndicate and to help him in his arms trafficking activities. Greed of easy money made Zunaid Khan to associate with Shakir in his illegal firearms trafficking activities. Both have disclosed to have been indulging in supply of firearms to gangsters and hardened criminals in Delhi-NCR and arms peddlers in UP, Haryana, Punjab and MP for a considerable period.

Shakir has further revealed that he used to get a pistol from MP for lower price and used to further sell it to Zunaid Khan with little profit. Zunaid Khan used to further sell a pistol at higher price to the criminals.

It has also been revealed that both the arrested persons have already supplied more than 400 firearms in Delhi NCR during the last 3 years.

Shakir was earlier arrested in a case under Arms Act in Haryana in 2013.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Two youths were arrested for robbing and murdering a man in Delhi's Patel Nagar, police said on Tuesday.

According to the police, "The deceased named Manoj, an electrician, was found lying in a pool of blood by his brother, who informed the police." Manoj, a residence of Baba Faridpur, was stabbed. Later he was taken to Sardar Vallabh Bhai Hospital and thereafter, shifted to Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital where he was declared brought dead.

Police said that after the complaint, the team collected intelligence in the area, gathered information, analysed routes and obtained CCTV footage of cameras on the basis of which accused were identified and arrested.

During the investigation, six JCLs were apprehended and two accused persons were arrested out of which one has been found previously involved in criminal cases, a police statement said.

The accused persons identified as Vivek Bhutan Singh (20) and Sikander (21) indulged into bad company for earning easy money, police said.

The weapon of offence used for commission of crime has been recovered along with the robbed mobile phone.
Guwahati, Oct 26 : Heroin valued at Rs 8 crore was seized in two separate incidents in Assam's Karbi Anglong and Nagaon districts and two drug peddlers, including a most wanted drug supplier of Manipur, arrested after exchange of fire with the police, officials said on Tuesday.

Acting on a tip-off, Assam Police personnel intercepted a few drug suppliers at Lahorijan area in Karbi Anglong district on Monday night but they fired upon the police, who retaliated.

After the exchange of fire, a wounded drug smuggler was found in the area with bullet injuries and shifted to hospital.

Around 626 gm heroin, valued at Rs 6 crore, a pistol and ammunition was found in his bag, the police said, adding that the other drug suppliers might have escaped during the exchange of fire.

Police continued a search operation on Tuesday to nab the fleeing accused.

In Nagaon district, most-wanted drug supplier R. K. Hopingson was arrested at Nonoi on Monday night along with a vehicle and drugs valued at Rs 2 crore.

Hopingson, a resident of Manipur's Senapati district and operating his drugs trade from Nagaland's Dimapur, tried to flee after attacking a policeman but was apprehended.

He was carrying the drugs from Dimapur to Nagaon, police said.

Security forces including Assam Rifles, Border Security Forces and state police almost every day arrest people in different northeastern states with huge quantities of drugs valued at crores of rupees. Officials said that the drugs are smuggled from neighbouring Myanmar which shares a 1,643-km of unfenced border with four north-eastern states.

The drugs, specially heroin and highly-addictive methamphetamine tablets, also commonly known as 'Yaba' or 'party tablets' or 'WY' and various other contraband as well as arms and ammunition were often smuggled from Myanmar and then illegally traded to other Indian states and neighbouring Bangladesh and other countries.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Assam Rifle Director General Lt Gen P.C. Nair on Tuesday met his Narcotics Control Bureau counterpart S.N. Pradhan here, officials said.

Though the details of the meeting were not revealed, it was believed that both officials discussed ways to prevent the smuggling of drugs and psychotropic substances in the northeastern region.

The smuggling of drugs and other psychotropic drugs has been rampant nowadays at Mizoram-Myanmar border.

Recently, an Assam Rifle team has seized a huge quantity of poppy seeds in Mizoram after the contraband was illegally brought across the border. Poppy cultivation has also become rampant in the dense forests of a few northeastern states to produce narcotics.

The NCB officials also said that the smuggling of the poppy seeds has become a major challenge for the state governments as well as for the Bureau.

Opium poppy cultivation is prohibited under the Narcotics Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act1985 but limited cultivation is allowed under a government license.

"Smuggling of poppy seeds from neighbouring Myanmar is a new item in the rampant illegal trade in various drugs including heroin, opium, tablets and capsules including methamphetamine, marijuana, morphine, bottles of cough syrup," an NCB official said.

Drug use and smuggling remain the biggest challenges for Mizoram, which shares the longest border with Myanmar among the four north-eastern states that border with the neighbouring country.

Assam Rifles, a Central Armed Police Force under administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs, provides security to the northeastern region and has a diversified role ranging from security to providing welfare, and developmental assistance to the people.
Bhubaneswar, Oct 26 : Intensifying their agitations over murder of lady teacher Mamita Meher, opposition parties in Odisha -- BJP and Congress on Tuesday held demonstrations at various places in the State.

Both the parties are demanding removal of Minister of State (MoS) Dibya Shankar Mishra for his alleged involvement in the murder case. The BJP observed a 12 hour bandh in Sambalpur while Congress held demonstrations in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack.

The BJP demanded a compensation of Rs 50 lakh to the family of the deceased. The BJP had already observed Kalahandi bandh and Bolangir bandh over the issue.

A 15-member BJP delegation led by State president Samir Mohanty met Mamita's family at their residence in Jharani village in Balangir district.

"This murder case is the most heinous crime of this decade. Such a case has not been reported in any place of the country," Mohanty said.

Senior BJP leader and former DGP Prakash Mishra raised questions on the police investigation in the case. "It's all a cycle of conspiracy. Why was the prime accused Gobinda Sahu brought to Titlagarh barracks and how did he manage to flee from police custody? Not only Gobinda but the big fish should also be caught," said Mishra.

On the other hand, hundreds of Chhatra Congress activists marched to Naveen Nivas (the residence of chief minister Naveen Patnaik) and had scuffles with the police.

During the face-off, the activists broke the barricades and hurled tomatoes and eggs at the on-duty cops. Later, the cops overpowered them and detained them to avert any unpleasant situation.

The Commissionerate of Police took over 100 activists of the Chhatra Congress into custody while they tried to break the police barricade.

President Yasir Nawaz alleged that many Chhatra Congress supporters were injured in the police action.

Similarly, Youth Congress members led by MLA Mohammed Moquim gathered at the DGP office in Cuttack demanding dismissal of the minister. The protesters also gave the state government an ultimatum of 72 hours to take action against Mishra.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Six people, including three toddlers, were safely rescued from an apartment in Palam village after a fire broke out there, Police said on Tuesday.

According to the police, the fire broke out due to short circuit.

Two fire tenders were immediately rushed to the spot.

Some cars were parked in the parking area and some families living in the apartment were stranded.

The fire could have caused serious damage if it had engulfed the parked cars there, police said.

A constable named Ashish sustained injury while rescuing the family.
Bengaluru, Oct 26 : Karnataka's Higher Education, Skill Development, and IT/BT Minister C.N. Ashwath Narayan on Tuesday sought the co-operation of Australia to provide master trainers to train skill development trainers.

He made the request as an Australian delegation, headed by Consul General Sarah Kirlew, met him here.

During the discussion, Narayan also said that renowned universities of Australia would be welcomed to open their campuses in the state and all required facilities would be provided.

Australian universities can also enter into MoUs with any university of the state including the Visvesvaraya Technological University, he said, adding that priority will be given if the Australian institutions come forward to set up their Centre of Excellence in collaboration with universities of the state.

During the discussion, the members of the Australian delegation apprised the Minister that Australia has MoUs with many institutions in the state including the IISc, the Raman Research Centre, the ISRO, Indian Astrophysics Institution, etc.

The delegation also expressed keenness to know about the start-up ecosystem of the state, and the minister assured that the required information would be shared with them.

He also told that co-operation with Australia in the cybersecurity sector would be continued under the "Beyond Bengaluru" programme.

Australian Trade and Investment Commission'S Sam Freeman, Vice Consul Andrew Calister, IT/BT Department Director Dr C.N. Meena Nagaraj, and State Higher Education Council ED Gopala Joshi were also present on the occasion.
New Delhi, Oct 26 : Fifty three people, including 46 women and 7 men were apprehended after Delhi Police Cyber Cell busted a fake call centre in Rohini, Police said on Tuesday.

The fake call centre was headed by an employee of the Indian Postal Department at village Pooth Kalan, Rohini. He was duping people outside of Delhi-NCR on the pretext of offering smartphones on cheap rates through COD schemes, Police said in a statement.

The modus operandi of the call centre was to give a lucrative offer of Redmi mobile and other articles in a combo pack in just Rs 4,500 to the people. However, instead of mobile phones, they sent cheap wallets, belt, soaps etc in the parcel and obtained the money on delivery from the customers.

To show the customers as an authentic deal, they used India Post as logistics service provider and cash on delivery offer, the statement added.

Six computer desktop system, one bar code scanner machine, two bar code bundle, five modem/router machine, total 86 mobiles, attendance registers, customer details registers, order book receipts and 119 sealed parcel boxes ready for delivery were seized.

Simultaneously, a raid was also conducted in Mangeram Park, Main bus stand, which was also being run by the same owners at other location. A case was registered and an investigation has been taken up in this case also.

During the course of investigation, case property has been seized.

Further investigation is in progress.
Aquiline Drones' Spartacus Hurricane is a fast, durable, lightweight, rapid deployment drone that weighs under 5 pounds, flies over 55 mph, and includes dedicated software for a variety of industries. Having created a unique drone solutions ecosystem, we are happy to offer our coveted, commercial-grade Spartacus Hurricane as a DIY model kit for techies, hobbyists and drone aficionados, who can actually generate income after assembly," Barry Alexander, Founder and CEO of Aquiline Drones.

Aquiline Drones (AD), an American drone manufacturer and cloud technology company, is now catering to tech enthusiasts by offering a complete, ready-to-assemble (RTA) commercial drone kit to the public. For the tech-inclined hobbyists, drone lovers, and students, these high-end drones can be assembled with basic tooling (included) in less than a week. The announcement is perfect timing for those looking for a unique gift idea thats guaranteed to arrive in time for the holidays.

"Despite the extreme shortages and detrimental delays in our nations current supply chain, we are taking the anxiety out of the gift-giving process by ensuring that all drone kit orders will arrive in time for the receivers holiday celebration, said Barry Alexander, Founder, and CEO of Aquiline Drones. Having created a unique drone solutions ecosystem, we are happy to provide access to our line of commercial drones, the Spartacus Hurricane, as a model kit for do-it-yourself (DIY) audiences who may also desire generating income from this hobby.

Through its strategic partnership with French drone designer and manufacturer Drone Volt, AD was able to take action to get ahead of the supply chain fallout through the preorder of inventory well in advance of what is being experienced today. Certainly, we try to do our part to ensure that at least some have a happy holiday, adds Alexander.

Individuals who purchase these RTA commercial drones can also enroll in hands-on training courses in Hartford, to be trained by ADs engineers and ground flight instructors.

The coveted Spartacus Hurricane drone is a fast, durable, lightweight, rapid deployment drone that weighs under 5 pounds, flies over 55 mph, and includes dedicated software. Each drone kit contains detailed instructions, parts, tools, step-by-step videos, as well as live manufacturing guidance to ensure product quality and flight success. When completed, the Spartacus Hurricane can assist the needs of videographers, home inspectors, construction site surveillance, and many other commercial applications.

Building your drone will give you a strong understanding of and appreciation for all aspects of the hardware, including aviation, programming, electronics and physics, said Alexander. We hope that everyone takes advantage of this one-of-a-kind opportunity as a Spartacus Hurricane drone kit will certainly make you the envy of your friends and family members."

The limited-production Spartacus Hurricane drone kit costs $4,999 plus shipping and can be ordered directly from Aquiline Drones at info@aquilinedrones.com Orders will be fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis. Orders placed by December 10th will guarantee delivery by Christmas. As a Christmas bonus, purchasers will be given free access to ADs popular Flight to the Future online commercial drone pilot training course. Visit http://www.FlightToTheFuture.com for more information on this world-class program.

About Aquiline Drones

Aquiline Drones Corporation (AD) is a progressive American drone manufacturer and cloud solutions company located in the financial district of Hartford, Connecticut. Founded by CEO Barry Alexander, AD's core management comprises highly experienced aviators, systems engineers, IT gurus, military personnel (including veterans), and business strategists. AD delivers a vertically integrated blend of products and services. These include an aviation cloud for commercial drones, U.S.-based drone manufacturing, drone "maintenance-repair-overhaul" (MRO) services, unmanned aerial systems (UAS) solutions for large enterprises and governments, a superior line of Spartacus drone products, a robust UAS training academy, and the country's first 'drone-on-demand' service enabling customers to order drone services through a proprietary mobile app. AD's full spectrum of technological solutions is widely applicable across countless industries and environments for superior, real-time data processing and insights. Visit http://www.AquilineDrones.com for more information.

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Catalent's state-of-the-art U.S. FDA- and EMA-approved gene therapy facility in Harmans, Maryland By applying the expertise we have gained from the last three years of operating our flagship gene therapy commercial facility, we are able to continue to expand our campus with a design layout that is innovative, efficient, and provides ultimate flexibility for our customers.

Catalent, the global leader in enabling biopharma, cell, gene and consumer health partners to optimize development, launch, and supply of better patient treatments across multiple modalities, today announced a $230 million expansion project to add three further commercial-scale viral vector manufacturing suites and associated support facilities and services at its gene therapy campus in Harmans, Maryland, to meet growing customer demand.

The Harmans campus, located close to Baltimore Washington International Airport (BWI), includes a now fully operational, state-of-the-art U.S. FDA- and EMA-approved facility comprising 10 commercial-scale manufacturing suites. A second facility is under construction following an initial $130 million investment by Catalent in 2020, which will add five new manufacturing suites that are expected to be operational mid-2022. This latest investment will include the construction of three additional multi-room commercial suites, as well as expanding the sites storage capabilities for just-in-time inventory space, ultra-low temperature freezers, and its water-for-injection infrastructure. When complete at the end of 2022, the campus will house a total of 18 CGMP viral vector manufacturing suites, each designed to accommodate multiple bioreactors up to 2,000-liter scale and enable the execution of commercial manufacturing from cell bank to purified drug substance.

Other facilities, including multistory parking and an onsite cafeteria, are planned for the campus to support the significant anticipated growth in employee numbers. The expansion will see the creation of more than 700 new technical, scientific, and operational employment positions over the next six years.

Catalent is committed to continuous improvement and growing with our customers futures in mind. This necessitates that we consistently incorporate our own learnings and the latest developments in CGMP manufacturing into our new and existing facilities and operations, to help assure quality and de-risk processes, commented Manja Boerman, Ph.D., President, Catalent Cell & Gene Therapy. By applying the expertise we have gained from the last three years of operating our flagship gene therapy commercial facility, we are able to continue to expand our campus with a design layout that is innovative, efficient, and provides ultimate flexibility for our customers.

The Harmans/BWI campus has a total footprint of approximately 350,000 square feet and is part of Catalents Maryland-based network of gene therapy, plasmid DNA and oncolytic virus facilities that offer horizontally integrated solutions to support advanced therapy programs from gene to clinic. The recent addition of process development and CGMP production of plasmid DNA at multiple scales at its Rockville facility, together with its process development and CGMP cleanroom suites for early-phase viral vector programs at Baltimore BioPark, located at the University of Maryland, provide the foundation for Catalents commercial gene therapy manufacturing services.

About Catalent Cell & Gene Therapy

Catalent Cell & Gene Therapy is an industry-leading technology, development, and manufacturing partner for advanced therapeutics. Its comprehensive cell therapy portfolio includes a wide range of expertise across a variety of cell types including CAR-T, TCR, TILs, NKs, iPSCs, and MSCs. With deep expertise in viral vector development, scale-up and manufacturing for gene therapies, Catalent is a full-service partner for plasmid DNA, adeno-associated viral (AAV), lentiviral and other viral vectors, oncolytic viruses, and live virus vaccines. An experienced and innovative partner, Catalent Cell & Gene Therapy has a global network of dedicated, small- and large-scale clinical and commercial manufacturing facilities, including an FDA-licensed viral vector facility, and fill/finish capabilities located in both the U.S. and Europe.

About Catalent

Catalent is the global leader in enabling pharma, biotech, and consumer health partners to optimize product development, launch, and full life-cycle supply for patients around the world.

With broad and deep scale and expertise in development sciences, delivery technologies, and multi-modality manufacturing, Catalent is a preferred industry partner for personalized medicines, consumer health brand extensions, and blockbuster drugs. Catalent helps accelerate over 1,000 partner programs and launch over 150 new products every year. Its flexible manufacturing platforms at over 50 global sites supply over 70 billion doses of more than 7,000 products to over 1,000 customers annually.

Catalents expert workforce exceeds 17,000, including more than 2,500 scientists and technicians. Headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, the company generated $4 billion in revenue in its 2021 fiscal year. For more information, visit http://www.catalent.com.

More products. Better treatments. Reliably supplied.
CGTN: CMG launches first ever Olympic 4K Ultra HD satellite TV channel

On Monday, China Media Group (CMG) in cooperation with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) launched a TV channel dedicated to the upcoming 2022 Olympic games.

The channel "CCTV16 will offer a 24/7, 4K HD simultaneous broadcasting service at a satellite open circuit TV channel and cover digital platforms including PC, mobile apps, H5 pages, WeChat and Weibo.

The new channel is the only media platform authorized by the IOC to use the Olympic name and logo in China.

IOC President Thomas Bach sent a congratulatory letter on the launch of the channel, praising CMG and CCTV as invaluable broadcast partners over many decades.

CGTN has released the text of Thomas Bachs letter which can be viewed in the link below:

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2021-10-25/China-Media-Group-launches-Olympic-Channel-14Ecr2vezeg/index.html

The 2022 Winter Olympics will take place in three competition zones of Beijing, Yanqing and Zhangjiakou between February 4th and 20th, 2022.

This material is distributed by MediaLinks TV, LLC on behalf of CCTV. Additional information is available at the Department of Justice, Washington, D.C.
INGENIO Aerospace (INGENIO), developers of innovative aircraft cabin and cockpit solutions, today announced that Dassault Aviation, a leading aerospace company, is now offering the INGENIO Cockpit Tablet Arm as a capability for "EFB" displays on Falcon 2000, Falcon 900, Falcon 7X and Falcon 8X production aircraft, and coming soon Falcon 6X.

INGENIOs tailor-made, compact and lightweight Cockpit Tablet Arm provides a secure and robust in-flight mounting system for Apple tablets. The Cockpit Tablet Arm seamlessly complements Dassaults best-in-class cockpit solutions.

Several successful project partnerships between Dassault Falcon Jet and INGENIO led to award-winning cabin and cockpit products being offered to Falcon aftermarket clients. Dassault Aviation has extended this trust by endorsing the Cockpit Tablet Arm as a new available advanced feature on Falcon production aircraft. Optimizing flight crew efficiency and offering easy access to Dassault applications, a Cockpit Tablet Arm is tailor-made for each Falcon model.

We are very pleased to have been selected by Dassault Aviation, says James Bell, President and CEO, INGENIO Aerospace. Dassault Aviation is committed to providing world-class solutions to both its production and in-service clients. As part of that vision, we are directly contributing to the optimization of mission performance by facilitating in-flight access to critical tools like tablets.

About INGENIO Aerospace

INGENIO Aerospace is an innovative technology firm dedicated to reinventing the in-flight experience by designing and building products for aircraft cabins and cockpits. Unmatched at blending innovation, creativity and the latest technologies, INGENIO products offer customers a unique balance of form, function and elegance. INGENIO is focused on designing, certifying and building leading-edge products and components for fixed wing and rotor aircraft in corporate, commercial and military markets. Based in Montreal, INGENIO has developed more than 68 innovative aircraft cockpit and cabin solutions since 2013. The INGENIO quality management system is registered AS9100D and the company is an approved manufacturer under Transport Canada CAR 561. All products are engineered to meet FAA Part 25 regulations and all electrical components are DO-160G qualified to facilitate installation on any aircraft. INGENIO is a 2021 winner of two Red Dot Design Awards for Product Design. For more information, please visit https://www.ingenioaerospace.com/

About Dassault Aviation

Dassault Aviation is a leading aerospace company with a presence in over 90 countries across six continents. Dassault designs and builds the family of Falcon business jets as well as the Rafale fighter jet. The company employs a workforce of over 12,000 and has production facilities in both France and the United States, and a worldwide service network. Since the rollout of the first Falcon 20 in 1963, over 2,650 Falcons have been delivered. The tri-jet and twin-engine lines offer outstanding efficiency and comfort, with ranges from 3,500 nm to 7,500 nm. They include the flagship Falcon 10X, the pioneering Falcon 7X and 8X, the widebody Falcon 6X, and the versatile Falcon 900LX, 2000LXS and 2000S. Falcon Customer Service continues to hold the top spot in key business aviation surveys.

About Dassault Falcon Jet

Dassault Falcon Jet Corp., is a wholly owned U.S. subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, France. Dassault Falcon Jet markets and supports the Falcon family of business jets throughout North America and South America.

Media Contact:

Mark Lowe, PRagmatic Communications

mark.lowe(at)pragcom.com / (514) 576-2519
Infographic: Q3 2021 We successfully navigated ongoing global disruptions, achieved sales growth, and continued to gain market share in communities with established Engel & Volkers shops.

Engel & Volkers Florida, the Master License Partner of the Engel & Volkers brand for the State of Florida, today announced its quarterly report for the third quarter of 2021. The company saw noteworthy year-over-year increases in areas such as sales volume, recruiting and expansion of its franchise network. Overall, the company has increased its revenue by 122 percent year-to-date.

"This was another strong quarter for Engel & Volkers Florida," said Timo Khammash, Managing Partner of Engel & Volkers Florida. "Our team continues to execute on our strategy to exceed expectations. We experienced increases in demand from consumers for our advisors services, as well as interest from successful real estate professionals throughout Florida for available franchise opportunities. We successfully navigated ongoing global disruptions, achieved sales growth, and continued to gain market share in communities with established Engel & Volkers shops. We expect to grow for the balance of the year and have a strong holiday season. Our strength is foundational and broad-based, and we are on a clear path to improve profitability and accelerate top line growth."

79 real estate professionals affiliated with Engel & Volkers at various brokerages throughout the state; bringing the total advisor count to 762. This same group of advisors facilitated 1,249 real estate transactions during the third quarter, totaling $825,521,557 in sales. Given that volume, the average sales price is $660,946 per transaction. The average listing price came in at $1,198,852 for the quarter. According to Zillow, the typical value of homes in Florida is $313,217a 20 percent increase over the last year. Compared to the state mean, Engel & Volkers Floridas average sales price is more than 110 percent greater. The company has also surpassed last year's third quarter sales by just over $248 million, making it a 29 percent year-over-year increase.

We have witnessed a new set of challenges emerge in the real estate industry this year, said Peter Giese, Chief Growth Officer at Engel & Volkers Florida. Florida saw a record low inventory of homes for sale, yet my team anticipates triple digit growth in sales volume by year's end. We are proud of our advisor's work ethic and continued utilization of our tools and brand to reach a new level of success; they continue to secure and service the best listings across the state and work tirelessly for their buyers in this challenging market.

Nearing 1,000 locations in 33 countries, Engel & Volkers continues to expand its presence in premium first and second home markets around the world. Engel & Volkes Florida signed two new franchise agreements this quarter, bringing their total shop count to 42 with the addition of Engel & Volkers St. Pete Beach and Engel & Volkers Tampa Water Street. The company is focusing its efforts on southeast Florida for the remainder of the year, in the hopes of forming several new franchise relationships in key markets throughout Miami-Dade County, Broward County and Palm Beach County. Along with opening new brokerages, the company is working closely with its existing franchisees to gain additional market share in their respective protected areas through mergers and acquisitions, among other methods.

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Press contact:

Linzee Werkmeister, Junior Vice President, Marketing & Franchise Support

Email: Linzee.Werkmeister(at)evrealestate.com

Tel: (239) 348-9000

About Engel & Volkers:

Engel & Volkers is a global luxury real estate brand. Founded in Hamburg, Germany in 1977, Engel & Volkers draws on its rich European history to deliver a fresh approach to luxury real estate in the Americas with a focus on creating a personalized client experience at every stage of the home buying or selling process for todays savvy homeowner. Engel & Volkers currently operates approximately 240 shop locations with 5,000 real estate advisors in the Americas, contributing to the brands global network of over 14,000 real estate professionals in more than 30 countries, offering both private and institutional clients a professionally tailored range of luxury services, including real estate and yachting. Committed to exceptional service, Engel & Volkers supports its advisors with an array of premium quality business services; marketing programs and platforms; as well as access to its global network of real estate professionals, property listings and market data. Each brokerage is independently owned and operated. For more information, visit http://www.evrealestate.com.

About Engel & Volkers Florida:

Engel & Volkers Florida is the Master License Partner of the global luxury real estate brand Engel & Volkers in the state of Florida. Recognized for uniquely recruiting, training and equipping some of the top professionals in the real estate industry, Engel & Volkers Floridas exclusive franchise model positions its license partners at the top of the premium market to gain market share and support their bottom line. The company represents franchise locations in: 30A Beaches, Amelia Island, Belleair, Boca Raton, Bonita Springs-Estero, Cape Coral, Clermont, Delray Beach, Destin, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers Downtown, Gainesville, Hollywood Beach, Islamorada, Jacksonville, Jacksonville Beach, Jupiter, Madeira Beach, Marco Island, Melbourne Beachside, Melbourne Central, Melbourne Downtown, Miami Coconut Grove, Neptune Beach, Olde Naples, Orlando, Orlando Downtown, Orlando-Winter Park, Palm Beach, Palm Coast, Ponte Vedra Beach, Sarasota, South Tampa, St. Augustine, St. Pete, St. Pete Beach, Stuart, Tampa Water Street, Venice Downtown, Wellington, and Windermere.

Engel & Volkers Florida is continuing to strategically strengthen and expand its presence in premium real estate markets across the state of Florida. If you would like to know more about the Engel & Volkers brand or how to join its global networkwhich is known for demonstrating competence, exclusivity and passion, feel free to call our corporate office, located at 633 Tamiami Trl N, Suite 201, Naples, FL 34102 USA. Tel: +1 239-348-9000.

For more information about Engel & Volkers Florida, please visit http://www.florida.evrealestate.com
Enterprise Information Services, LLC (EIS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Cognosante, LLC, today announced it was awarded a contract to support US Army Intelligence and Security Command (INSCOM) Integrated Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Enterprise Architecture operations. Cognosante is a mission-driven technology company providing innovative solutions to federal and state governments as they deliver programs that improve the health and safety of Americans. The $36.1M Task Order, issued as part of the Alliant 2 Governmentwide Acquisition Contract (GWAC) vehicle, includes a base year and four option years.

We are delighted to support INSCOM as it continues to provide critical intelligence, security, and operational support to the US Army. This award is yet another opportunity to demonstrate our commitment to the health and safety of Americans as a proud partner to the Department of Defense (DoD), says Jignesh Goda, General Manager of Cognosantes Defense and Intelligence division. Our team has a successful track record of providing innovative safety solutions to the DoD and other intelligence agencies.

Under this contract, the company will provide holistic IT services and related logistic, programmatic, training, and management support for geospatial intelligence, or GEOINT, operations. The INSCOM GEOINT Enterprise Architecture (IGE-A) provides an enterprise environment for the GEOINT. It standardizes the hardware, software, storage, and network connectivity to support Continuity of Operations (COOP) and collaboration. Work will be performed primarily at Fort Gordon, GA. Personnel supporting this contract will also be assigned in Texas, Colorado, and Hawaii, as well as Germany and the Republic of Korea.

Goda continued, Our team will apply decades of experience providing IT enterprise services, biometric, and cyber solutions for the Department of Defense, the Department of Homeland Security, and other intelligence agencies. We are honored to be entrusted with enabling INSCOM to conduct Processing, Exploitation and Dissemination (PED) of classified GEOINT products in support of warfighters around the world.

About Cognosante

Cognosante provides technology solutions and business process outsourcing to Federal, state, and local government health agencies as well as social services and defense agencies. The company has more than a decade of experience working with States and the Federal government to improve access to care and address the social determinants of health by developing, managing, and executing large multi-faceted technology solutions. Its expertise includes Medicaid, Medicare, military and Veterans health, the health insurance marketplace, data standards and analytics, cybersecurity, biometrics, and modular system development and integration. Visit http://www.cognosante.com for more information.
Fernando Arellano Geddes shares his thoughts about joining the Mighty Franchise System. "We are excited about our partnership with Mighty Auto Parts. This will allow us to expand business throughout the region and we look forward to a long and productive relationship with Mighty."

Mighty Distributing System is proud to welcome Florida-based Step One Automotive Group to the Franchise System. Joining 14 other car dealership groups affiliated with Mighty, Step One has added three Mighty Auto Parts franchises in two states. The new Mighty businesses are based in Orlando, Pensacola, and Dothan and will operate as separate, vertically integrated distribution points servicing the greater Orlando market, the Florida panhandle, as well as southern Alabama.

Step One Automotive Group was founded in 2016 by CEO Fernando Arellano Geddes. Headquartered in Fort Walton Beach, Florida, the company operates 22 dealerships in Florida, Alabama, and Georgia, representing 16 brands including Chrysler, Dodge Jeep, Ram Fiat, Volkswagen, Subaru, Kia, Hyundai, Genesis, Ford, Buick, GMC, Cadillac, Alfa Romeo, and Maserati. Step One is a Top 90 dealer group in the U.S. and Top 10 in Florida. They employ more than 700 team members.

Step One will centrally distribute Mightys preventive maintenance products, shop supplies, detailing products, chemicals, lubricants, and equipment to their own dealerships. It also presents an opportunity to add profits with B2B product sales to their wholesale customers and other non-affiliated automotive businesses in their exclusive territory.

Fernando Arellano Geddes said, "We are excited about our partnership with Mighty Auto Parts. This will allow us to expand business throughout the region and we look forward to a long and productive relationship with Mighty."

Josh DAgostino, Mightys President said, Car dealerships continue to see the value in adding a Mighty franchise to their portfolio of companies. We are so proud to welcome Fernando and the entire Step One Automotive Team to our family. They have made a significant investment in our program by adding three Mighty operations and will have our full support to achieve success in each market.

About Mighty Distributing System

Headquartered in Peachtree Corners, GA, Mighty supports 100 franchised distributors in 44 U.S. states and five international markets. The Mighty System features local service, inventory management expertise, and training in conjunction with extensive offerings of OE quality underhood and undercar parts, chemical products, lubricants, shop supplies, and PPE products. The Mighty business model attracts independent repair shops, quick lubes, tire centers and new car dealerships across the nation and abroad. Mightys unique approach of dealing directly with automotive professionals began in 1963.


The Follen Community Church of Lexington has successfully completed a three-year $4M+ renovation in collaboration with Maryann Thompson Architects and ZVI Construction. As the pandemic eases, the Follen community will finally be able to make full use of the successful project.

The Follen community selected Maryann Thompson Architects to work collaboratively with the volunteer construction committee to shape a vision for the project that merged a light-filled modern architecture aesthetic with the historic octagonal sanctuary built in 1840. The results include large new windows & other modern details that were enthusiastically approved by the Lexington Historic District, as well as adaptive re-use of historic granite in the landscaping plans, and a sculptural, beautifully lit, square spiral stairway visible from the street that serves as a connector and focal point of the project.

Follen selected ZVI Construction to perform the complicated project which included deep collaboration with the Follen Construction Oversight Group to accomplish a number of specific project goals which included the integration of a three-floor elevator, numerous accessibility improvements around the campus, new heating, cooling, and ventilation that had to be integrated with existing systems, as well as significant foundation work to the historic building to accommodate massive enhancements to the basement level and connecting spaces.

In addition to successfully completing the project, ZVI proved to be an important partner in troubleshooting the many subcontractor needs, logistical challenges, cost changes, and financial aspects of the three-year project.

Sophia Evett, current President of Follen church expressed her gratitude to the entire team. The entire Follen community is very happy with the result of this project. Working with Maryann Thompson and ZVI Construction ensured that we were able to overcome the many challenges that came up during this large renovation and resulted in a new building that we are all proud of.

About Follen Church

Follen Community Church is a Unitarian Universalist congregation in East Lexington, Massachusetts. We are an inclusive, caring, committed, and welcoming spiritual home that fosters growth through worship, fellowship, and service. We welcome all who are looking for a place where families and friends join together for personal growth, social justice, a loving community, and support at all stages of life. To learn more, visit https://follen.org

About Maryann Thompson Architects

Maryann Thompson Architects specializes in sustainable, regionally-driven projects. We push technical limits and uncover intrinsic beauty in natural materials in order to reveal architecture's potential to heighten the subjective experience of place. To learn more, visit https://maryannthompson.com/

About ZVI Construction

ZVI Construction is a client-driven, team-oriented company. With over forty years of experience, ZVI specializes in creating unique commercial spaces ranging from minor renovations to multi-million-dollar projects. To learn more, visit http://www.zviconstruction.com/
Process, Risk & Governance is one of the fastest-growing areas of the firm and we are confident the practice will continue on its upward trajectory under Jasons leadership.

Frazier & Deeter, a Top 50 accounting and advisory firm with offices in the US and the UK, announced today the promotion of Jason Sammons to lead the firms Process, Risk & Governance (PRG) Practice. Sabrina Serafin, the previous leader of the practice, is retiring after fourteen years with the firm.

We are excited to name Jason Sammons to this role, noted Managing Partner Seth McDaniel. Process, Risk & Governance is one of the fastest-growing areas of the firm and we are confident the practice will continue on its upward trajectory under Jasons leadership.

In his new role, Sammons will be responsible for setting a vision and growth strategy for the practice, ensuring excellence in relationship management and client service, driving growth and launching new services designed to meet the needs of the firms growing clients. Sammons has spent nearly 9 years with Frazier & Deeter serving several of the firms most strategic accounts. He started his career in the Atlanta office of Ernst & Young and also held multiple corporate leadership roles prior to joining Frazier & Deeter.

I am thrilled to step into a leadership role for such a rapidly growing practice, noted Sammons. I look forward to partnering with our talented professionals to serve the firms PRG clients in the increasingly complicated and important arena of risk and compliance.

Frazier & Deeters Process, Risk & Governance team designs and delivers risk-based compliance solutions. Services include a wide range of risk management, regulatory compliance and process improvement services. The team is comprised of subject matter specialists in areas such as internal audit, Sarbanes-Oxley advisory, data analytics, information security and regulatory frameworks, including HIPAA, HITRUST, PCI DSS, privacy services, SOC examinations and more.

About Frazier & Deeter

Frazier & Deeter is an award-winning accounting and advisory firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, USA. The firm provides a wide range of tax, audit, accounting and advisory services to serve the emerging needs of clients as they evolve. Frazier & Deeter and its FD family of brands have nine offices across the United States and one in the United Kingdom. The firm has been recognized repeatedly as a Best of the Best Accounting firm, a Best Firm to Work For in the U.S. and a Best Firm for Women in Leadership. Frazier & Deeters brand promise is Investing in Relationships to Make a Difference
 Galena Country Tourism A vital part of the plan is gathering input from residents and businesses about how they envision the next 10 to 20 years" said said Colin Sanderson, chair of the Board of Directors for Galena Country Tourism and director of sales and marketing for Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa.

The Board of Galena Country Tourism today announced that the initial phase of a 10-year strategic plan to revitalize the historic towns and tourism industry in Jo Daviess County in Northwest Illinois is underway. Leading the plans development is MMGY NextFactor, a globally recognized consulting firm specializing in travel and tourism. This team of experts has worked with destinations across the world to deliver sustainable growth to their visitor economies and build stronger communities. They will lead a steering committee made up of notable area residents and leaders. The board and steering committee, together with MMGY NextFactor, is conducting focus groups and interviews with current hospitality staff, local government, businesses and residents.

This is more than a rebranding or simple marketing effort, said Colin Sanderson, chair of the Board of Directors for Galena Country Tourism and director of sales and marketing for Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa. A vital part of the plan is gathering input from residents and businesses about how they envision the next 10 to 20 years, and what they think we  as a community  will need to get there.

Already, more than 500 businesses, stores and restaurants have received a stakeholder survey to provide input to help shape the plan. This survey is open for four to six weeks and all tourism-related stakeholders are encouraged to reply. Once the input from stakeholders has been reviewed, another survey will be distributed to Galena Country residents.

Planning for the future of Galena and the surrounding area needs to be a community-wide endeavor, said Loras Herrig, steering committee member and East Dubuque city manager. During this research phase were learning about the needs and the expectations of the people who live and work here. Once we have that baseline, well build upon it to formulate a 10-year master plan.

The steering committee aims to complete the stakeholder surveys in November. The results will be synthesized with relevant local, national and global trends in travel to identify opportunities for locals and tourists to develop the plan, which will be presented to the Board of Galena Country Tourism for commentary and feedback by December of 2021. The plan is expected to be finalized in the first quarter of 2022, with implementation beginning in the summer of 2022.

Notable Steering Committee

The steering committee will be driving the entire process, and includes notable political leaders, community members and businesspeople from Jo Daviess County, including:



Colin Sanderson - committee chair, Galena Country Tourism, and director of sales and marketing at Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa, Galena,Ill.

Marc McCoy, Ward 1 Alderman, Galena, Ill.

Mike Casper  president & CEO, Jo-Carroll Energy, Inc., Elizabeth, Ill.

Terry McGovern  chairman, Village of Stockton, and owner at Stockton Floral & Gifts, Stockton, Ill.

Jill Pepin  grant/loan writer and administrator, Community Funding & Planning Services, Stockton, Ill.

Kirk Raab  mayor, Village of Warren, Ill.

Kelly Raab  president, Warren Chamber of Commerce, Warren, Ill.

Loras Herrig  city manager, East Dubuque, IIll.

Jamie Loso  coordinator for interpretation, Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site, Galena, Ill.

Melisa Hammer  treasurer, Jo Daviess County, Elizabeth, Ill.

Christie Trifone Millhouse  associate director, Jo Daviess Conservation Foundation, Elizabeth, Ill.

Kathy Gable  director, Village of Hanover, and owner of Sullivans Laundromat, Hanover, Ill.

Nikki Peebles  vice president regional retail manager, Illinois Bank & Trust, Galena, Ill.

Dino Rigopoulos  owner, Rigopoulos Restaurant Group. Galena, Ill.

Rose Noble  CEO and president, Galena Country Tourism, Galena, Ill.

For more information on the stakeholder surveys and the 10-year master plan, email admin@visitgalena.org. For more information on current Galena Country and tourism programs, visit visitgalena.org.

About Galena Country Tourism

Galena Country Tourism is the official Destination Management & Marketing Organization for Galena Country. The organizations mission is to promote, develop and expand the visitor industry for the benefit of the local economy and community including the City of Galena and Jo Daviess County, Illinois. Galena Country Tourism is supported by a board of 11 directors consisting of representatives from the travel and tourism industry, local government and experienced businesspersons. For more information go to visitgalena.org.

Galena Country Tourism

101 Bouthillier St., 2nd Floor

Galena, IL 61036

815-776-9200

Media Contact

Beth Strautz

beth@vaguspr.com

773-895-5387
Glenfield Capital Logo

Glenfield Capital is pleased to announce the launch of a $150 million equity fund that targets core-plus office buildings in the Southeast and Midwest.

More than half of the fund is already committed, and Glenfield Capital is actively fundraising and seeking additional assets that meet its narrow and disciplined criteria of well-leased office buildings in attractive suburban markets.

The Glenfield Stabilized Income fund portfolio already includes 1.03 million square feet of space with a valuation of more than $200 million. Together the assets are approximately 96% leased with a weighted average remaining lease term exceeding 9 years.

We are bullish on the investment case for high quality office assets in desirable markets, said James P. Cate, Managing Principal and Founder of Glenfield Capital. We are confident that the noise and uncertainty about the future of in-person work is overstated and temporary. The Glenfield Stabilized Income fund is designed to capitalize on compelling core-plus opportunities that support our investment thesis.

The Glenfield Stabilized Income fund launched in early October with three assets:



Timberlake Corporate Center  The 3-building campus is in the wealth corridor of western St. Louis has 351,532 square feet and is 100% leased to tenants including Centene Corporation, a publicly traded multi-national affordable healthcare provider that ranks among the 25 largest companies in America. Glenfield Capital bought the asset in September to coincide with the launch of the fund, and it is being leased and managed by Cushman & Wakefield.

One Federal Place  Widely considered the best-in-class office property in all of Birmingham, the 11-story Class A building has 300,041 square feet and a distinct facade of tinted glass and granite. It is 97% leased to tenants including Bradley Arant and PNC Bank. Glenfield Capital bought the asset in May and warehoused it until the fund launched, and it is being managed by Colliers and leased by Cushman & Wakefield/EGS.

Gramercy Woods  The 420,449 square foot building is on the south side of Jacksonville, which is driving dynamic growth for the region. It is 91% leased to tenants including CVS Health (formerly Aetna) and SS&C Technologies, a publicly held financial services software developer. Glenfield Capital bought the asset in 2019 and conveyed it into the fund upon launch. It is being managed by JLL and leased by Colliers.

ABOUT GLENFIELD CAPITAL

Glenfield Capital is a private real estate investment firm founded in 2005 by principals with a century of collective experience and more than $1.4 billion in advisory and principal activities. In 2021, the Atlanta-based company launched the Glenfield Stabilized Income Fund, a $150 million equity fund targeting core-plus office assets with reliable income streams and outsized risk-adjusted returns. Glenfields current portfolio includes assets totaling more than 1.5 million square feet in the Southeast and Midwest. Learn more at http://www.glenfieldcapital.com.

Media contact:

Mary Jane Credeur of The Credeur Group

404 317 2718

mj [@] credeurgroup.com
We maintain that our firm never had as a client, the individual in question in the Pandora Papers. Our due diligence was completed to ensure that we never served the client in the capacity alleged by the media report in question.

Earlier this month, the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) and the Washing Post released the Pandora Papers. In the Pandora Papers, Belize was listed as a prime tax haven and secrecy jurisdiction. Belizean lawyer and owner of Glenn D Godfrey and Company LLC, as well as leading financial services company CILTrust, Glenn Godfrey was accused of being a main figure in setting up illegal offshore facilities for United States clients.

Today, Glenn Godfrey is looking to set the record straight.

In a statement released to the public, Godfrey said, We maintain that our firm never had as a client, the individual in question in the Pandora Papers. Our due diligence was completed to ensure that we never served the client in the capacity alleged by the media report in question.

Godfrey continued, We have written to the consortium seeking a complete retraction of all its references and reports in relation to my person and Glenn D Godfrey as a legal firm. The report is seriously defamatory and has to cause irreplicable damage to my person and the legal firms reputation. Should the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists refuse to accede to our demand, we will seek legal redress.

Despite the report, neither Godfrey nor CILTrust have ever been charged with any wrongdoing related to offshore accounts.

Glenn Godfrey is available for comment and will continue to do everything in his power to clear the good name of both Glenn D Godfrey and Company, LLC and CILTrust as both businesses have earned sterling reputations based on the quality of their work.

About Glenn D Godfrey and Company, LLC:

Founded in 1979 by Senior Counsel, Glenn D. Godfrey, a former Attorney General Minister of Tourism and Environment, and Member of the Belize National Assembly Glenn D, Godfrey & Co. LLP is a highly sought-after law firm un-Belize. With more than 50 years of experience in the Belize legal, political, and international business community, Glenn Godfrey has represented some of the largest domestic and global corporations doing business in Belize. The law firm and Ciltrust, the financial services company, represent both individuals and companies around the world. As a globally oriented law firm, our team of attorneys are experienced specialists in a wide area of Belize law and related business legal matters.
Its an honor to receive recognition for delivering results to our channel partners, all while enjoying our unique company culture. We believe in Hiring Happiness not just for our customers, but for ourselves, too.

HiringThing announced today that The Globee Awards, organizers of worlds premier business awards programs and business ranking lists, has named HiringThing a winner in the 6th Annual 2021 Business Excellence Awards.

HiringThing was awarded a Grand Globee and three Gold Globee awards in the categories of Employer Excellence for Relocation, Work Remotely and Work from Home Opportunities; Employer Excellence of the Year | Cloud Computing/SaaS/Internet; and Milestone of the Year | Partners and Distribution Growth. Recognition for these awards shows a dedication to both team members and partner relationships.

At HiringThing, our key values, work style, team, and approach have evolved over time, and we love the place weve reached, says Jess Tejani, COO. We reap the amazing benefits of a supercharged, remote team with the special work environment weve crafted.

In addition to crafting a fun and high-performing remote work culture, HiringThing delivers a versatile private label applicant tracking system to its partners. Their flexible and scalable infrastructure allows their clients to expand their systems and get to market quickly. Despite the pandemic, theyve enabled 50% more employers, representing 5,000+ businesses, to streamline their hiring process in the last year.

The coveted annual Business Excellence Awards is the worlds premier awards program honoring employer excellence, employees, and HR achievements. The awards recognize the worlds best employers, employees, and human resources professionals, teams, achievements, and HR-related products, services, training, and consultants who help to create and drive the best places to work. This annual awards program celebrates the individuals and teams who set industry benchmarks for excellence.

Its an honor to receive recognition for delivering results to our channel partners, all while enjoying our unique company culture. said Joshua Siler, CEO & Founder. We believe in Hiring Happiness not just for our customers, but for ourselves, too.

See the complete list of 2021 winners here: https://globeeawards.com/business-excellence-awards/winners/

###

About HiringThing

HiringThing is an integrated recruiting platform that creates seamless hiring experiences. Their private label recruiting technology enables organizations to add hiring capabilities to complete their solution. With HiringThings open API and developer-friendly documentation, they enable customized workflows and seamless connectivity for HR Solutions, PEOs/ASOs, Franchises, Staffing Agencies, and more. Approachable and adaptable, the HiringThing platform empowers everyone, everywhere to hire their dream team. For more information, email info@hiringthing.com or visit hiringthing.com.

Twitter @hiringthing #hiringthing

About the Globee Awards

Globee Awards are conferred in eleven programs and competition: the CEO World Awards, the Consumer World Awards, The Customer Sales & Service World Awards, the Globee International Best in Business Awards, the Golden Bridge Awards, the Cyber Security Global Excellence Awards and Security World Awards, the IT World Awards, One Planet American Best in Business Awards, the Globee Employer Excellence Awards, the Globee Corporate Communications & Marketing World Awards, and the Women World Awards. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind their success, the Globee Awards recognize outstanding achievements and performances in businesses worldwide. Learn more about the Globee Awards at https://globeeawards.com.

Twitter @globeeawards #globeeawards #employerexcellenceawards

All trademarks belong to their respective owners.
Getting affordable car insurance as a first-time driver is not an easy task, but there are several methods that can help them pay less on their monthly premiums, said Russell Rabichev, Marketing Director of Internet Marketing Company.

Compare-autoinsurance.org has launched a new blog post that presents several useful tips that will help first-time drivers get cheaper car insurance.

For more info and free car insurance quotes, visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org/how-to-insure-first-time-drivers/

First-time drivers are paying some of the most expensive car insurance policies. The lack of experience behind the wheel is the reason why car insurance companies charge more on the premiums of first-time drivers.

To make their car insurance rates cheaper, first-time drivers should follow the next tips:



Join an existing plan. First-time drivers, especially teen drivers, are seen as risky by insurance providers because they lack experience, may text and drive, and are more likely to get distracted. Joining the familys insurance plan is one way to get affordable rates.

Choose a slightly used vehicle. When buying the first car, first-time drivers should consider buying a cheaper slightly used car if they want to get cheaper premiums. The cost to replace a vehicle plays into the overall premium.

Raise the deductible. First-time drivers who select full coverage car insurance can save some money by raising the deductible. The deductible is the amount the policyholder pays before the insurer pays to fix the vehicle.

Consider buying liability insurance only. First-time drivers who have an older car or can afford to replace their vehicle in case of an at-fault accident should consider buying only liability insurance. This policy gives no protection to the vehicles and it covers only the other drivers bodily injury and property damage.

Avoid tickets and car accidents. Being a safe driver is the best way to keep insurance rates low. First-time drivers should do their best to avoid distracted driving, speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, and DUIs.

Improve the credit score. Car insurance companies are allowed to use the credit score to rate drivers in every state but California, Hawaii, and Massachusetts. Drivers can improve their credit score by getting their first credit card, paying off their credit balance monthly, or by becoming authorized user on an account with excellent payment history.

Shop around. First-time drivers should get as many quotes as they can and compare them. To finish this task faster, first-time drivers should go to a brokerage website.

Ask for discounts. To make their policies more affordable to drivers, insurance companies offer all types of discounts such as good student discount, graduating a defensive course discount, getting a married discount, installed anti-theft devices discount, telematics discount, multi-policy discount, pay in full discount, and more.

For additional info, money-saving tips and free car insurance quotes, visit https://compare-autoinsurance.org/

Compare-autoinsurance.org is an online provider of life, home, health, and auto insurance quotes. This website is unique because it does not simply stick to one kind of insurance provider, but brings the clients the best deals from many different online insurance carriers. In this way, clients have access to offers from multiple carriers all in one place: this website. On this site, customers have access to quotes for insurance plans from various agencies, such as local or nationwide agencies, brand names insurance companies, etc.
Dana Cass, VP of Marketing, IVIX Danas experience engaging and communicating with government decision-makers will be invaluable as we continue to expand our offering and our client base. -- IVIX CEO and Co-Founder, Matan Fattal

IVIX, a technology company that provides technologies for tax authorities to combat tax evasion in the shadow economy, has appointed Dana Cass as VP of Marketing, with a mandate to support the companys rapid growth and engagement with governments and other authorities working to close the multi-trillion-dollar tax gap.

Prior to joining IVIX, Cass spent 9 years at Palantir, where as part of the communications team she led the companys global digital marketing strategy, including during the September 2020 IPO. She previously held a variety of roles on Palantirs business development team, engaging with government agencies in the US, Norway, Denmark, Australia, Singapore among others. At IVIX she will drive a global marketing program aimed at tax authorities in a variety of geographies, applying her experience in marketing, communications and business development.

Commenting on the appointment, IVIX CEO and Co-Founder, Matan Fattal said, Governments all over the world lose trillions of dollars in tax revenue annually to the shadow economy. IVIXs technology-driven approach is a powerful new way for authorities to uncover tax evasion that takes advantage of enhancements in AI and data analysis. Danas experience engaging and communicating with government decision-makers will be invaluable as we continue to expand our offering and our client base.

Already deployed in several OECD countries, IVIXs technology is helping tax authorities quickly and accurately identify and prioritize tax non-compliance in verticals where nearly 50% of businesses were not reporting income. IVIX engineers and analysts are rapidly developing capabilities for new verticals in response to client demand.

Cass says, Data and technology offer many incredible opportunities for public servants seeking to serve their constituents more effectively. IVIX has a formidable combination of unique technology and strong business momentum, and Im excited to help governments worldwide illuminate shadow economies and narrow the multi-trillion-dollar tax gap.

Cass joined IVIX in October, reporting to Matan Fattal.

About IVIX:

IVIX is the first purpose-built technology platform to combat the shadow economy. It offers a powerful data-driven approach that takes advantage of new technologies and the benefits of AI. IVIXs innovative platform that allows tax authorities to automatically analyze data to identify large-scale infringement in a highly accurate, resource-efficient manner. For more information, please visit https://www.ivix.ai.
Nate Smith at Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club "Nate is one of the best drummers in jazz - and probably many other genre's - and we expect audiences to have a peak musical experience when he and his band take the stage on November 5 at Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club."

Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club will feature 3x-GRAMMY Award Nominated Drummer NATE SMITH + Kinfolk on Friday, November 25 at 7:30 & 10 P.M. For nearly two decades, Nate Smith has been a key piece in reinvigorating the international music scene with his visceral, instinctive, and deep-rooted style of drumming. Smith holds a diverse and ample resume  which includes work with esteemed jazz leading lights such as Pat Metheny, Dave Holland, Chris Potter, Jose James, John Patitucci, Ravi Coltrane, and Somi, among many others. His 2x GRAMMY-nominated debut album, 'KINFOLK: Postcards from Everywhere', sees Smith fusing his original modern jazz compositions with R&B, pop, and hip-hop.



ALL ABOUT JAZZ called Smith, "A many-faceted jewel whose luster only grows with re-examination."

THE NEW YORK TIMES hailed Smith declaring, "...his drumming is a marvel unto itself."

DOWNBEAT MAGAZINE had this to say of Smith, "If you are looking to satisfy your groove craving, look no further."

"We are very excited to have Nate Smith perform at Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club. The enthusiasm around Nate's performances only continues to grow as his first show has been sold out for some time now, " said Suzanne Bresette, Managing Director, Programming at Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club. "Nate is one of the best drummers in jazz - and probably many other genre's - and we expect audiences to have a peak musical experience when he and his band take the stage on November 5 at Jimmy's Jazz & Blues Club."

Tickets for Nate Smith + Kinfolk at Jimmy's Jazz and Blues Club can be found on Ticketmaster.

Jimmys Jazz & Blues Clubs 2021 Schedule includes 17 GRAMMY Award-Winning Artists and a complete list of Jazz and Blues musicians with 200+ GRAMMY Award Nominations amongst them. Visit Jimmys Online Event Calendar for Jimmys Jazz & Blues Clubs complete 2021 Schedule. Subscribe to Jimmys Email Newsletter to stay informed on new jazz and blues artist announcements, tickets, special offers, Jimmys Sunday Jazz Brunch, and much more.

ABOUT JIMMYS JAZZ & BLUES CLUB

The mission of Jimmys Jazz & Blues Club is to provide guests a one-of-a-kind, world-class experience featuring serious jazz and blues music served with exceptional southern-inspired cuisine. Jimmys Jazz & Blues Club features a spectacular and visually breathtaking environment engineered to deliver the highest quality acoustics while utilizing state-of-the-art production, sound and lighting technologies. Jimmys Jazz & Blues Club is located within a beautifully restored 1905 building at 135 Congress Street in the heart of historic downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire. For more information visit http://www.jimmysoncongress.com.
Joon K Lee, CEO of Inquivix, Korea's leading digital marketing agency Through his extensive experience in the digital marketing field, especially in the Asian markets, Joon K Lee and Inquivix have been able to help global organizations achieve their goals through effective branding and marketing strategies.

Joon K Lee, founder and CEO of Inquivix, Koreas leading digital marketing agency, has been accepted into Forbes Agency Council, an invitation-only community for owners of and executives in successful public relations, media strategy, creative, and advertising agencies.

Joon K Lee was vetted and selected by a review committee based on the depth and diversity of his experience. Criteria for acceptance include a track record of successfully impacting business growth metrics, as well as personal and professional achievements and honors.

We are honored to welcome Joon K Lee into the community, said Scott Gerber, founder of Forbes Councils, the collective that includes Forbes Agency Council. Our mission with Forbes Councils is to bring together proven leaders from every industry, creating a curated, social capital-driven network that helps every member grow professionally and make an even greater impact on the business world.

As an accepted member of the Council, Joon has access to a variety of exclusive opportunities designed to help him reach peak professional influence. He will connect and collaborate with other respected local leaders in a private forum. Joon will also be invited to work with a professional editorial team to share his expert insights in original business articles on Forbes.com, and to contribute to published Q&A panels alongside other experts.

Finally, Joon K Lee will benefit from exclusive access to vetted business service partners, membership-branded marketing collateral, and the high-touch support of the Forbes Councils member concierge team.

I am honored to be a member of the Forbes Agency Council and excited to be able to converse with and learn from other entrepreneurs and agency owners. - Joon K Lee

ABOUT FORBES COUNCILS

Forbes Councils is a collective of invitation-only communities created in partnership with Forbes and the expert community builders who founded Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC). In Forbes Councils, exceptional business owners and leaders come together with the people and resources that can help them thrive.

For more information about Forbes Agency Council, visit forbesagencycouncil.com. To learn more about Forbes Councils, visit forbescouncils.com.
Keis George LLP is delighted to welcome associate attorney Sade B. Ojediran to the firms Chicago, Illinois office. Ojediran will focus her practice on post-judgment enforcement in Illinois and Wisconsin.

Sade checked all the boxes in terms of what we were looking for in a new associate, and in her short time with our practice, shes exceeded already high expectations. Shes quickly become an invaluable member of our team and a joy to work with, said Brad Krapfl, partner.

A skilled and versatile litigator, Ojediran will practice in all aspects of insurance litigation and post-judgment enforcement. Ojediran is adept in all aspects of civil procedure as she previously focused on consumer and commercial litigation involving breach of contract. Ojedirans practical experience includes the modification and swift enforcement of bank citations, wage garnishments, asset attachments, and citation examination. While post-judgment remedies vary by state, Ojediran is up to speed on regulatory and statutory compliance, while working to maximize recoveries.

Warren S. George, managing litigation partner, believes Ojedirans dynamic talent will contribute to the firms ongoing growth. Standing out in Chicagos crowded field of subrogation can be a challenging task. I am very proud of Keis Georges footprint in Illinois and specifically Chicago. I feel we have increased the talent we currently have in our post-judgment enforcement by adding Sade. Sades experience is vast and compliments our post-judgment enforcement. She is a talented lawyer with the energy and experience we need not only for our current post-judgment efforts but also those of the future.

Ojediran received her J.D. from the University of Illinois College of Law and earned a degree in political science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. During law school, Ojediran served as the President of the University of Illinois Black Law Student Association. Ojediran is a member of the Black Women Lawyers Association of Greater Chicago, the Illinois State Bar Association, and the Wisconsin State Bar Association.

Ojedirans parents created a home that was rich in culture and education. Appreciating the importance of education and traditions, Ojediran is passionate about the community and volunteers as a youth mentor. Ojediran comes to life as she seizes the opportunity to help children realize their academic and social potential.
If you would like to know more about the Aveanna Healthcare AS, LLC and Premier Healthcare Services, LLC lawsuit, please contact Attorney Jackland K. Hom today by calling (619) 255-9047.

The Northern California employment law attorneys, at Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC, filed a complaint alleging that Aveanna Healthcare AS, LLC ("Aveanna") and Premier Healthcare Services, LLC ("Premier") (collectively, "Aveanna and Premier") violated the California Labor Code. The Aveanna and Premier lawsuit, Case No. 21CV387081, is currently pending in the Santa Clara County Superior Court of the State of California. A copy of the Complaint can be read here.

The lawsuit alleges Aveanna and Premier violated the Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA), which gives rise to civil penalties as a result of Aveanna's and Premier's conduct. PAGA authorizes aggrieved employees to file a lawsuit to recover civil penalties on behalf of themselves, other employees, and the State of California for Labor Code violations. PAGA allows aggrieved employees to step into the shoes of California state regulators to recover civil penalties, which means ordinary citizens are deputized as private attorneys general to enforce the Labor Code.

The complaint alleges Aveanna and Premier violated the California Labor Code by failing to: (1) provide compliant meal and rest periods; (2) pay all minimum, regular and overtime wages, including at the correct rate; (3) reimburse for business expenses; (4) maintain true and accurate records; (5) pay sick time; (6) provide accurate itemized wage statements; and (7) timely pay wages due during, and upon termination of employment.

If you would like to know more about the Aveanna and Premier lawsuit, please contact Attorney Jackland K. Hom today by calling (619) 255-9047.

Zakay Law Group, APLC and JCL Law Firm, APC are labor and employment law firms with offices located in California that dedicate their practices to fighting for employees who have been wronged by their employers due to unfair employment practices. Contact one of their attorneys today if you need help with workplace issues regarding wage and hour, wrongful termination, retaliation, discrimination, and harassment.

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Lerner and Rowe host FREE trunk or treat event in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Lerner and Rowe's Albuquerque team is excited to celebrate Halloween this year with a free drive-thru trunk or treat event for local families to enjoy.

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is pleased to announce their Albuquerque legal team is getting into the Halloween spirit in the most spooktacular way. The team will be hosting a drive-thru trunk or treat event on Friday, October 29, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. at the 1st Health parking lot (2800 San Mateo NE). This is a FREE, family-friendly activity that is open to the public. Scarily yummy candy and other treats will be handed out first-come, first-serve, while supplies last.

Our Albuquerque team is excited to celebrate Halloween this year with a free trunk or treat event for local families to enjoy. We know the past two years have been full of scary and unnerving events that have taken the fun out of traditional holiday activities and wanted to do something that would bring back a bit of fun, without the fright. We also want to encourage parents to go over costume and general safety precautions with young kids and teens this Halloween to help ensure nobody ends up hurt in an accident, shared attorney Kevin Rowe.

To learn more about Lerner and Rowes FREE Albuquerque drive-thru trunk or treat event, please contact Liliana Gomez at (505) 544-4444.

More About Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys

Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys is a powerhouse law firm in representing personal injury clients. Attorneys Glen Lerner and Kevin Rowe have grown their law firm into one of the largest personal injury firms in the country, with over 50 attorneys and nearly 400 support employees located in New Mexico, Nevada, Indiana, Illinois, Arizona, California, Washington, Oregon, and Tennessee. The law firms reputation for excellence can be attributed to the high levels of respect, dignity, and customer service shown to victims and family members hurt in an accident.

For those injured outside one of the previously listed states, Lerner and Rowe has an established network of attorneys across the country, ready to help. The firm takes pride in nourishing these relationships as they know a personal injury attorney can make all the difference in obtaining fair compensation for the pain and suffering inflicted upon the victims of tortious conduct.

For more information about Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys in Albuquerque, please call (505) 544-4444. To connect with the law firm socially, follow Lerner and Rowe on Twitter and Instagram, or become a fan of its Facebook page. Also, be sure to visit LernerAndRoweGivesBack.com to learn more about the many other community services that the lawyers and legal support team of Lerner and Rowe actively support.
For the second year in a row, weve seen tremendous success offering RhythmWorld in a virtual conference format, enabling us to extend our reach to a global audience and build community within the cybersecurity industry.

LogRhythm, the company powering todays security operations centers (SOCs), announced another record-breaking RhythmWorld Security Conference, with a 200% increase in attendance from the previous year. The free, virtual conference provided customers, partners and security practitioners around the world with the opportunity to learn about meaningful topics related to the cybersecurity industry, engage with experts in the field and discover how to maximize the use of the LogRhythm NextGen SIEM Platform.

LogRhythm announced plans to unveil a comprehensive cloud platform in early 2022 that combines network detection and response (NDR), endpoint detection and response (EDR) and user and entity behavior analytics (UEBA) capabilities  meeting the evolving security needs of its customers.

LogRhythm also recognized outstanding security leaders, programs and organizations during the conference through its inaugural Pinnacle Awards. These awards seek to celebrate members of the security community and their outstanding achievements during the past year. The winners include:



Community MVP: Brent Barnett, Senior Operations Engineer, RedLegg

Outstanding Security Team: Open Text Global Information Security, led by Eric Rubin

Security Analyst of the Year: Robert (Bob) Ridley, Information Security Analyst II, OSF Healthcare Systems

Security Leader of the Year: Jerrod Crockett, Chief of International Security, United Forces International Organization

Standout Security Use Case: Axiata

Attendees had access to security practitioners and LogRhythm experts who ran deep-dive discussions, comprehensive trainings, industry-specific chats and a virtual capture the flag event. Pablos Holman, renowned hacker, inventor and technology futurist, took attendees inside the hacker mindset, revealing new ways of approaching challenges, overcoming obstacles, and finding the key to unique solutions and groundbreaking inventions. Theresa Payton, one of the most respected authorities on cybersecurity and the first female White House chief information officer, spoke about her behind-the-scenes work at the White House and armed attendees with an actionable blueprint for guarding their work and personal lives against todays greatest cyber threats.

For the second year in a row, weve seen tremendous success offering RhythmWorld in a virtual conference format, enabling us to extend our reach to a global audience and build community within the cybersecurity industry, said Mark Logan, CEO of LogRhythm. The considerable growth in attendance year over year and number of repeat attendees we welcomed back demonstrates the great value of this event. We look forward to sharing the next evolution of our security platform next year and will continue to focus on the success of our customers now and into the future.

LogRhythm would like to thank its sponsors Avertium, RedLegg and Recorded Future for their support in making the RhythmWorld Security Conference 2021 possible. RhythmWorld 2022 will return to an in-person format September 1215, 2022 in Denver, CO.

Select on-demand sessions from this year's event, including the previously mentioned keynote and panels, are available for viewing here. To learn more about LogRhythm, please visit the website.

About LogRhythm

LogRhythms award-winning NextGen SIEM Platform makes the world safer by protecting organizations, employees, and customers from the latest cyberthreats. It does this by providing a comprehensive platform with the latest security functionality, including security analytics; network detection and response (NDR); user and entity behavior analytics (UEBA); and security orchestration, automation, and response (SOAR). Learn how LogRhythm empowers companies to be security first at logrhythm.com.
Beach House Shake in Pacifica color adds rustic charm with durability and weather resistance to this Maine vacation home. A couple wanted to match a stained and sealed reddish-orange clapboard on a gable wall and Beach House Shakes Pacifica color had the right tones. They were so pleased with the results, they decided to move ahead with two other exterior walls. --Todd Wagstaff, Sales Pro, Mainely Vinyl

Mainely Vinyl, serving Eastern Maine, recently selected Beach House Shake, an innovative shake material, to recapture Downeast charm for a renovated vacation home. With a 35-year plus track record, Mainely Vinyl is one of the most trusted exterior remodelers in Eastern Maine. With 20 employees, Mainely Vinyl has been serving Downeast Maine for decades with thousands of satisfied customers, according to owner Ray Young. We consistently look for the latest innovative, trend-setting products.

In a departure from being mainly vinyl, the remodeler recently expanded its offerings with Beach House Shake, the only shake product on the market that will stay looking like the day it was installed, resisting wind, sun and moisture damage while offering the beauty of natural cedar. They also feature TandoStone, the number one brand of composite stone. Weve been displaying the composite stone options in our show room and its very popular for foundations beneath the siding as a visually appealing, lightweight, low-maintenance alternative to traditional masonry, said Todd Wagstaff, one of the firms two sales pros.

Wagstaff explained how a recent one-wall Beach House Shake vacation home siding job expanded into a three-phase project.

A couple wanted to match a stained and sealed reddish-orange clapboard on a south-facing gable wall and Beach House Shakes Pacifica color had the right tones, with just the right blend of darks and lights, he said. They were so pleased with the results, they decided to move ahead on a contract for two other exterior walls.

The red cedar aesthetic of Pacifica has become increasingly popular in mountain and rustic areas like inland Maine. Other colors include Sandcastle, with the look of fresh eastern white cedar shingles; Hatteras, a deep, rich, weathered gray; and Atlantica, a light, silvery gray reminiscent of a quaint New England cottage. Beach House Shake also carries the 20-year Beautiful Freedom warranty that ensures the beautiful look will last.

The lightweight panels made the process installer-friendly and time-efficient, said Derek Grant, the foreman on the job. In addition, the 5-inch profiles lined up nicely with the clapboard because the exposure was the same.

Along with running the office, seven-year team member, Stephanie Bradford uses her expertise to assist customers by matching them with products that best meet their needs. Our showroom is very impressive, offering full-size samples of most products, which customers are able to take with them, she said. And, as the recent Beach House Shake remodeling effort demonstrated, a small job carried out with craftsmanship and top-notch materials can easily extend into a larger project.

Learn more at http://www.beachhouseshake.com and about TandoStone at http://www.tandobp.com

About Tando:

The Tando brand of exterior building products leverages innovation and manufacturing technology to solve market challenges such as labor shortages, long lead times, and moisture concerns all while meeting consumer demand for mixed material exteriors and low maintenance. From launching the first polymer shake over 40 years ago to developing the #1 brand of Composite Stone, Tando has a proven history of creating new categories, including TandoStone, Beach House Shake, and TandoShake.
"Our government certifications provide extraordinary opportunity for Marvell Foods and companies who partner with us, such as food manufacturers, to benefit from the many financial incentives the government offers to companies like ours, says Marilyn Raybin, President, Marvell Foods.

SEE OUR GOVERNMENT CERTIFICATIONS: https://www.marvellfoods.com/government-contract-services/

During the Pandemic, Marvell Foods played a significant role in the country, helping food manufacturers keep their "lines" running, employees working, and aiding millions of American families suffering from food insecurity. Commencing in September 2020, Marvell Foods participated in the third round of the USDA Farmers to Families Food Box Program, acting as a supplier/distributor working with some of the largest food manufacturers - beef, poultry, and working as a liaison/broker on behalf of BOA Holders and Awardees who won bids to supply food boxes to food-insecure American Families suffering during the peak of the pandemic.

Through the balance of 2020, Marvell Foods continued to work with food manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers for the additional rounds of multi-billion-dollar funding - Rounds Four and Round 5 of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program. All told, Marvell Foods played a significant role in working with manufacturers, awardees, and food banks across the country by fostering, facilitating, and supplying nearly 10 million pounds of food to millions of American families coast to coast.

SEE MARVELL FOODS USDA FARMERS TO FAMILIES FOOD BOX PROGRAM PERFORMANCE MAP:

https://www.marvellfoods.com/marvell-performance-map/

"After our successful experience working with some of the largest food manufacturers during the pandemic, it became clear there was an excellent opportunity to leverage our foray into the USDA by securing other Government certifications," says Marilyn Raybin, President of Marvell Foods. After nearly a year of providing extensive due diligence, working with assorted government departments, lengthy and costly audits, letters of recommendation, and other tedious proofs, Marvell Foods obtained several hard-earned government certifications. "Not only are we an official and properly certified minority woman-owned business," says Raybin, whose father started and owned White Star Packing in NYC, and was the the original producer of the world-famous Ferris Stahl Meyer Hot Dog, We have reached a new corporate milestone with more than six government approvals that now immediately allow us to bid on and work with food manufacturers, processors, suppliers, and cookers to offer food - meat and poultry, and other products, to a host of government programs, from the military to school programs, senior programs and Federal contract programs that ear-mark set-asides and incentives for a company like Marvell Foods.

See Details About Each Government Program, Benefits and Incentives, Click Here: https://www.marvellfoods.com/government-contract-services/.



Marvell Foods' Government Certifications

Marvell Foods' various government approvals, listed below, provide Marvell Foods and its strategic partners with exceptional price and contract incentives to supply food (and other) products to the Federal Government. Here is a list of Marvell Foods Government Certifications.



SAM - System for Award Management

U.S. Small Business Administration [SBA]

Hubzone: Historically Underutilized Business Zone

SBA/WOSE - Woman Owned Small Business

Commodity Supplemental Food Program - A senior Food Assistance Program [CSFP]

The Emergency Food Assistance Program [TEFAP]

USDA Foods in Schools [USDA-FIS] programs

See Details About Each Government Program, Benefits and Incentives, Click Here: https://www.marvellfoods.com/government-contract-services/.

About Marvell Foods

Marvell Foods is a third-generation, family-owned food trading, food brokerage company. With more than thirty years of experience and offices coast to coast, Marvell Foods is also a Certified Government Vendor/Supplier. The company buys, sells, and trades a wide assortment of food products on behalf of some of the country's largest companies, including Big Box Retailers, Independent Food Operators, and Discount Retailers, among a host of other companies. Marvell Foods supplies foods and food products to the Federal and State Prison System, food banks, commissaries, churches, ministries, and school food programs. Marvell Foods specializes in brokering out-of-date, close-coded, discontinued, unsold, and overstock food items.

MEDIA CONTACT:

Jeff Mustard - The Bamboo Agency

Email: jeff@thebambooAgency.com | 954-801-8263

http://www.TheBambooAgency.com
Our personal service model and comprehensive wealth management offering is fueling our growth and we look forward to continuing to invest in the firm to help even more investors reach their goals of economic freedom.

Mercer Advisors Inc. (Mercer Advisors), a national Registered Investment Adviser (RIA) firm, announced today that the firm has been recognized by Barrons as a Top 100 RIA Firm. Each advisory firm is ranked based on qualitative and quantitative criteria, such as assets under management, technology spending, staff diversity, succession planning, and other factors.* Over the past several years, Mercer Advisors has consistently been ranked by Barrons as one of the top 10 RIA firms, nationwide.

Being recognized as a Top 100 RIA firm by Barrons is an incredible honor and a testament to the focus our entire organization has on helping our clients meet their financial goals and objectives, said Dave Welling, CEO of Mercer Advisors. Our personal service model and comprehensive wealth management offering is fueling our growth and we look forward to continuing to invest in the firm to help even more investors reach their goals of economic freedom.

Barrons publishes the Top 100 RIA firms annually with the goal to shine a spotlight on the nations best financial advisors. The rankings serve two distinct types of Barrons readers. For wealth management professionals, they serve as an industry scorecard. For investors, the rankings are a tool that can help in the process of finding financial guidance.

According to Barrons, The rankings are meant as a starting point for clients looking for an advisora first-pass vetting that can help investors narrow a search. Every advisor will have his or her own approach to investing, financial planning, and other services. Clients are encouraged to approach a search for an advisor the way they would a search for a doctorinterviewing multiple professionals and getting opinions from multiple third parties.

*Barrons methodology: https://www.barrons.com/articles/barrons-methodology-for-ranking-financial-advisors-51615843316 Advisors who wish to be ranked fill out a 102-question survey about their practice. We verify that data with the advisors firms and with regulatory databases and then we apply our rankings formula to the data to generate a ranking. The formula features three major categories of calculations: (1) Assets (2) Revenue (3) Quality of practice. In each of those categories we do multiple subcalculations. For instance, we take into account not just the amount of assets an advisor manages, but also the type of assetsare they private-wealth assets or institutional? If theyre institutional, are they for a foundation or an endowment, or are they corporate assets? We measure the growth of advisors practices and their client retention. We also consider a wide range of qualitative factors, including the advisors experience, their advanced degrees and industry designations, the size, shape, and diversity of their teams, their charitable and philanthropic work and, of course, their compliance records.

About Mercer Advisors

Established in 1985, Mercer Global Advisors Inc. (Mercer Advisors) is a full-service wealth management firm that specializes in providing investment advice, financial and estate planning, and taxes, and corporate trustee and trust administration services. It is one of the largest Registered Investment Advisers and financial planning firms in the U.S. with ~$32.5 billion in client assets. Headquartered in Denver, Mercer Advisors is privately held, has over 600 employees, and operates nationally across the country with 60 locations. Mercer Advisors, Inc. is a parent company of Mercer Global Advisors Inc. (RIA), majority owned by both Oak Hill Capital and Genstar Capital. Mercer Global Advisors has a related insurance agency. Mercer Advisors Insurance Services, LLC (MAIS) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Mercer Advisors Inc. Employees of Mercer Global Advisors serve as officers of MAIS. For Mercer Global Advisors clients who wish to purchase insurance products, MAIS has entered into a non-exclusive referral agreement with Strategic Partner(s). More information about MAIS and our Strategic Partners may be found in our Form ADV 2A. Visit us at http://www.merceradvisors.com.

Mercer Global Advisors Inc. is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and delivers all investment-related services. Mercer Advisors Inc. is the parent company of Mercer Global Advisors Inc. and is not involved with investment services.

Mercer Advisors is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice to clients. All estate planning documentation preparation and other legal advice is provided through its affiliation with Advanced Services Law Group, Inc.

Data as of August 30, 2021. AUM includes affiliates and wholly owned subsidiaries announced to date.

Please Note: Limitations. Neither rankings and/or recognitions by unaffiliated rating services, publications, media, or other organizations, should be construed by a client or prospective client as a guarantee that he/she will experience a certain level of results if Mercer Advisors is engaged, or continues to be engaged, to provide investment advisory services. Rankings published by magazines, and others, generally base their selections exclusively on information prepared and/or submitted by the recognized adviser. Rankings are generally limited to participating advisers (see participation criteria/methodology). No ranking or recognition should be construed as a current or past endorsement of Mercer Advisors by any of its clients.
The future of autonomous navigation is bright - Michael Dolbec

Momenta is proud to announce its investment in Fixposition, a cutting-edge Swiss technology company enabling centimeter-level positioning in Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) degraded and denied environments. Momenta joined the $5.95m investment round, which includes previous backers True Ventures, Hasler Stiftung, along with new investors MiraclePlus (former YC China), Cultivation Capital, and G&M Capital.

Fixposition's goal is to make high-precision positioning accessible to all and enable the autonomous robot revolution. CEO Zhenzhong Su says, We are excited to welcome Momenta as partners in our journey. With the new funding, we will bring our next-generation product into production, execute our market strategy, and expand through strategic partnerships in the space of autonomous navigation."

Analysts predict the autonomous vehicle market will grow at 60% CAGR over the next decade. Vehicles ranging from automobiles and trucks to entirely new vehicles will soon operate in human-augmented and fully autonomous modes. This will require accurate data on the position of the vehicle. In autonomous passenger-vehicle solutions, companies have used Lidar to understand the environment around a vehicle and maintain the vehicle's course. The cost of Lidar, however, is prohibitive for most smaller autonomous vehicles. Early unicorn-level startups in this space include Ouster, Aeye, and Velodyne Lidar.

Michael Dolbec, Managing Partner for Momenta, states, "The market for autonomy is accelerating and expanding. Warehouse, retail, and agricultural solutions are all on the rise. The acquisitions of Raven Industries by CNHi and Bear Flag Robotics by John Deere, in particular, highlight the strategic importance of autonomy and reinforce Momenta's belief that precise navigation is a critical enabling technology."

Autonomous delivery trucks usually utilize GNSS signals combined with real-time kinematic positioning (RTK) technology to achieve precise global localization. Yet, this is often unreliable in places where GNSS signals are blocked, such as urban canyons, beneath bridges, near trees, or even close to hills. Fixposition's innovative deep sensor fusion technology enables reliable and cost-effective high-precision positioning in all conditions. Some of their customers that are effectively using their innovative technology include Neolix and PIX Moving, both robotics companies.

Jash Bansidhar, Managing Director of Advantech Europe & AVP of Industrial IoT at Advantech, states, "Advantech views autonomous vehicles as a growing market beyond passenger-vehicles. Fixposition has created a unique technology that unlocks new opportunities in this space. Together, we believe, these technologies will pave the way towards the democratization of autonomous applications.

This is Momenta's second investment from the AIoT Ecosystem Fund, established in collaboration with Advantech, the worldwide leader in IoT intelligent systems and embedded platforms. The fund is aimed at early growth stage companies at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Industrial Internet of Things (IoT). The fund provides venture capital investment and direct value creation to entrepreneurs across Europe and North America.

About Fixposition

Fixposition is on a mission to simplify autonomous navigation by increasing the reliability and availability of precise positioning. The company develops deep sensor fusion of RTK-GNSS, IMU, and computer vision to ensure high reliability of centimeter-accurate positioning in all types of environments, even where other systems fail. This technology enables new players to participate in the autonomous robot market and expands the operational opportunities of autonomous robots. Fixposition was founded by two entrepreneurs from ETHZ (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich) graduates, one hailing from China, the other from Switzerland, and began as an ETH Spin-Off. A technical synergy emerged from pairing one's high-precision GNSS knowledge with the other's extensive computer vision. The team is further strengthened by the collective forces of veteran experts from other well-established players such as u-blox and ZF, along with a strong team of aspiring engineers from across the globe. Fixposition aims to make an impact and drive the democratization of autonomous technology solutions. For more information, visit http://www.fixposition.com

About Momenta

Momenta is the leading Digital Industry venture capital firm accelerating deep tech and digital innovators across energy, manufacturing, smart spaces, and supply chain. For nearly a decade, our team of deep industry operators has helped scale Digital Industry leaders, providing funding and value-creation in conjunction with our award-winning executive search and strategic advisory practices. For more information, please visit https://momenta.one.
Its something Im really proud to achieve for PrestigePEO. Creating campaigns to tell our story in terms of how we provide SMBs HR support is very rewarding. We value our tenured clients and look forward to fostering even greater business relationships in the years to come!

PrestigePEO is proud to announce its Director of Marketing, Nancy Arato, has been named a 2021 Gold Stevie Award winner for Women in Business in the category of Communications or PR Campaign of the Year in Marketing  Business to Business. Nancys award is earned in the American Business Awards program.

The Stevie Award applications are extended to businesses around the world. They honor the top working professionals and organizations making positive contributions. The Women in Business category is open to organizations internationally. More than 1,000 professionals worldwide participate in the judging process, according to the academy. The Stevie Award judges include many of the worlds most respected executives, entrepreneurs, innovators, and business educators.

Of the honor, Nancy says, Its something Im really proud to achieve for PrestigePEO. Creating campaigns to tell our story in terms of how we provide SMBs HR support is very rewarding. We value our tenured clients and look forward to fostering even greater business relationships in the years to come!

Nancy joined the company in 2019, bringing a flair for branding and decades of experience to the team. With her help, PrestigePEO has transformed into one of the nations leading industry organizations. Her Stevie Award is joined by a company-earned title this year in the medium category for Company of the Year  Business & Professional Services. A virtual awards ceremony for both honors will be held on January 13, 2022.

PrestigePEO founder and CEO Andy Lubash offers his praise to Nancy on the award, saying, this recognition has been hard-earned by our dedicated marketing department. The distinction truly represents the passion Nancy brings to our brand and all that her team has built.

This unwavering support reflects the companys mission to support small businesses across the nation and back the brokers who make this opportunity possible. PrestigePEO was founded by brokers, for brokers; it maintains its ambition to serve all of those involved in what lies ahead.

About PrestigePEO

Melville, N.Y.-based PrestigePEO, also known as Prestige Employee Administrators LLC, provides integrated, end-to-end human resources (HR) solutions to small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) for managing all integral human resources operations. This includes support for employee benefits management, payroll administration, workers compliance, and HR guidance, among others. PrestigePEOs full spectrum of HR services and solutions helps SMBs lower employee benefit costs, reduce administrative workloads, and manage critical HR functions.

PrestigePEO is among only 1% of PEOs accredited by the Employer Services Assurance Corporation (ESAC), certified (CI) through Workers Comp Risk Management, and classified as a Certified Professional Employer Organization (CPEO) by the IRS  demonstrating financial stability and strict adherence with a diverse range of regulatory and security standards.

To learn more, visit http://www.prestigepeo.com and follow PrestigePEO on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube
Amid Covid-19 variations and west coast fire season, Negative Population Growth, Inc. has published a new Forum paper positing the connection between refugee populations, the pandemic, the abuse of legal loopholes by unscrupulous groups, and U.S. immigration policy. In his work, titled "How Covid, Climate, and the Cartels Reshape U.S. Refugee Policy", author Edwin S. Rubenstein discusses several of todays current trends and how these circumstances intertwine. With his lens above the fray, Rubenstein leads the reader through an overview of Covid-19, cartels (Title 42), and climate while highlighting how they affect refugee policy and population growth.

Beginning with Covid-19 and Title 42, Rubenstein sets the stage at the start of the pandemic (March 2020) when both the U.S. and Mexican governments closed their land borders to non-essential travelers, effectively lowering the number of illegal border crossers by almost half the following month. Also significant in March 2020 was executive order Title 42. Invoked by President Trump, it allows Border Patrol agents to waive formal apprehension and expulsion procedures. While illegal border crossing continued, a high percentage of those crossing resulted in expulsion versus apprehension. One example of the consequences of Title 42 is the increased instance of repeat border crossers. Rubenstein then spotlights drug cartels, already educated on policy loopholes, under-the-radar border crossing, and their connection to those hoping to cross the border illegally, noting: Title 42 created a massive opportunity for drug cartels to diversify into human trafficking. While migrants may not understand the nuances of U.S. border policy, they clearly see the current period as a limited time offer to enter the U.S.

In the trenches of illegal border crossings another national concern is ballooning out of control, namely: climate. Along the U.S. & Mexican border, temperatures are high, and dry weather patterns are stubbornly persistent. This information is not new. The 2020 Census data affirms that population growth is exacerbating an already tense situation. Lake Mead is lower than ever before, and the Colorado River is dangerously over-extended with the burden of supporting 40 million people (up 15 million from 1992). Yet, despite a wealth of knowledge supporting an unsustainable future, water is still moving through federally subsidized dams and canals, providing a false sense of security to those who would be most affected by a sharp decline in the water supply to the area. Rubenstein deftly stacks his narrative to include a pertinent tie-in between climate and immigration, noting the inarguable presence of ongoing chain migration and its correlation to population growth, stating: But the impact of refugees on American population growth is far greater than their numbers alone would suggestThe nexus between todays refugees and tomorrows legal immigrants is rarely discussed these days, though it has troubling implications for U.S. population growth.

Covid-19, cartels (and Title 42), and climate concerns have created a whirlpool of conflicting agendas and U.S. policy. Rubenstein, steadfast in his resolution to present actionable recourse to circumvent the constant flow of illegal immigrants and dire consequences of cascading chain migration, closes his piece, saying: We cannot possibly allow every hopeful migrant to enter the U.S.  no country can be expected to do so. It is time our elected officials realize and fully embrace the idea that immigration reform must include reductions in overall numbers, not become a blueprint for increasing numbers in new and increasingly creative ways.

Founded in 1972, NPG is a national nonprofit membership organization dedicated to educating the American public and political leaders regarding the damaging effects of population growth. We believe that our nation is already vastly overpopulated in terms of the long-range carrying capacity of its resources and environment. NPG advocates the adoption of its Proposed National Population Policy, with the goal of eventually stabilizing U.S. population at a sustainable level  far lower than todays. We do not simply identify the problems  we propose solutions. For more information, visit our website at NPG.org, follow us on Facebook @NegativePopulationGrowth or follow us on Twitter @npg_org.


Iconic Danish furniture franchise BoConcept is coming to Fort Lauderdale. In October, Carlos Salamonovitz  one of BoConcepts largest franchisees  will open his third Florida store and tenth store overall at the River Market mall.

Our first two Florida locations in Coral Gables and Miami have been huge successes, and weve seen so much demand for a store in Fort Lauderdale, Salamonovitz said. We couldnt be more excited to finally meet that demand with the new River Market location.

Salamonovitz, who currently oversees seven BoConcept stores in Mexico and two in South Florida, with additional locations in the pipeline for both markets, says Florida has proven to be the perfect market for the fast-growing furniture franchise.

BoConcept is a global brand, and Florida is a very international market. People know us from their home countries, and they know that we offer superior products to just about any other option in the U.S. or abroad, Salamonovitz said. There is also a growing number of first- and second-time home buyers in Florida, which means there is a huge demand for high-end but affordable furniture.

With the opening of the new Fort Lauderdale location, BoConcept now boasts 16 stores in the U.S. and more than 300 stores in markets across the globe, putting it well on its way to hitting the franchises ambitious growth goal of 350 units globally by 2023.

As BoConcept continues to grow, Steen Knigge, the franchises director of U.S. marketing, says franchisees like Salamonovitz are critical to the brands success.

We have always been keenly aware of the fact that BoConcept as a franchise is only as strong as its franchisees, so we are always looking for sophisticated, passionate entrepreneurs to help us expand into new markets, and thats exactly what we have with Carlos, Knigge said. His stores throughout Mexico and Florida demonstrate exactly how successful this model is when run by someone who understands the system and knows how to execute. We know this is just the beginning for Carlos.

Originally founded in Denmark in 1952 and franchised in Paris in 1993, BoConcept is dedicated to building successful stores through entrepreneurial franchisees. The functional furniture brand is actively targeting sophisticated retail communities in major cities, including Austin, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix and Scottsdale.

To learn more about franchising with BoConcept, visit https://www.boconcept.com/en-us/franchise.

About BoConcept

Since opening its first franchise in Paris in 1993, BoConcept has become a global leader in the design of bold, stylish furniture, boasting nearly 300 locations in 65 countries around the world. Founded in Denmark in 1952, BoConcept differentiates itself by offering premium quality, modern designs that elevate interior spaces to achieve their full potential. The company remains focused on creating functional furniture for the urban consumer through partnerships with the worlds leading interior designers. Backed by a proven global concept and strong franchise support system, BoConcepts 16 U.S locations include a flagship store, which opened in December 2017 on New York Citys famed Madison Avenue. For more information please visit http://www.boconcept.com. To inquire about franchise opportunities, please visit https://www.boconcept.com/en-us/boconcept/franchise.


OnviSource Partners with Voicegain Our joint product enhancements will deliver highly accurate Speech-to-Text models for complex business applications.

OnviSource, a leading provider of intelligent automation solutions for workforce optimization, contact center operation analytics and automation, customer experience management, and business process automation, announced today a strategic partnership with Voicegain, an innovative Speech-to-Text/ASR company. OnviSource has integrated Voicegains deep learning-based speech-to-text platform into its Intellecta multichannel analytics solution which utilizes speech-to-text and natural language understanding to analyze customer interactions and audio-based content to discover actionable knowledge and extract business insights.

OnviSource will leverage the Voicegain platform to serve its growing enterprise client base from various industries such as nationwide wireless service providers, banking, financial services, utilities, insurance and others.

We are pleased to announce this partnership with Voicegain as their AI-driven ASR further augments our AI-driven intelligent automation solutions and our hyper-automation platform that offers integrated AI, conversational AI, RPA, BPA and analytics, said Ray Naeini, Chairman and CEO of OnviSource. Our partnership will allow both companies to jointly develop highly sophisticated and customized AI models for various applications and industries in order to deliver unmatched accuracy and performance.

To achieve high performance, OnviSource deployed the Voicegain ASR Engine on servers with Nvidia Tesla T4 GPUs in its data center. This architecture is referred to as an Edge deployment. While Voicegain also offers a multi-tenant cloud solution, an Edge deployment architecture has two important benefits for OnviSource.

The first major benefit is that it allows OnviSource to meet strict customer contractual commitments related to data privacy, security and control. The second benefit is that it delivers approximately a 75% reduction in costs for OnviSource compared to usage-based pricing models provided by other providers, empowering OnviSource to offer its feature-rich solutions at highly affordable and flexible prices.

We are excited to be selected by OnviSource for its call center and enterprise speech analytics products. This decision validates the 3As on which Voicegain differentiates itself in the ASR market  Accuracy, Affordability and Accessibility, said Arun Santhebennur, Co-founder & CEO of Voicegain. Our joint product enhancements will deliver highly accurate Speech-to-Text models for complex business applications.

Selection of the Voicegain product by OnviSource was based on comprehensive trials and pilot programs related to accuracy, performance and applicability of Voicegains product, combined with detailed comparative analysis with other products in the market.

Additionally, the Voicegain product offers simplicity in deployment and usage as the entire platform is deployed on a Kubernetes cluster. Its Edge deployment offers a simple script to download and deploy all the packages and dependencies on any server with Nvidia Tesla T4 GPUs.

About Voicegain

Voicegain is a deep neural network-based Speech-to-Text platform that is focused on developers of voice applications. Voicegain offers a full suite of APIs, SDKs and SaaS apps on top of its platform to automate and analyze voice-based interactions in contact centers, sales and meetings. To learn more, visit Voicegain.ai or create a free account to get started.

About OnviSource

For more than a decade, OnviSource has enabled several hundred small-to-large companies across a broad range of industries to cost-effectively manage, automate and improve their customer experience and business processes by offering advanced solutions in multichannel data and media capture, unification, analysis, decision making and automation for their entire enterprise, including their contact centers, back offices and IT organizations.

OnviSource ia.Enterprise Intelligently Automated (IA) solutions offer Workforce Optimization and Workforce Management (WFO/WFM), inclusive Teleservice Customer Engagement Management, Multichannel Customer Engagement Analytics, intelligently automated Customer Survey, Process Automation through Robotic Process Automation (RPA) and Intelligent Process Automation (IPA) and Intelligent Virtual Agent (IVA). The Company delivers its solutions as software products, cloud or Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), managed services, or any combination. OnviSources special Advantage Platinum program assures that solutions work for customers specific needs by offering a series of customer assistance programs with no obligations. These programs include consultation, proof-of-concept and hands-on operation assistance. OnviSource is headquartered in Plano, Texas (North Dallas area), with an additional operation center in Oklahoma.

Press Contact:

Voicegain: Arun Santhebennur, CEO

arun@voicegain.ai

OnviSource: Deborah Cromwell, Marketing Manager

deborah.cromwell@onvisource.com
The new MECS converter at the PVS Chemicals Belgium plant Eli Ben-Shoshan, says, Sulfuric acid plants are key sources of carbon-free energy. By capturing that energy, the industry can contribute to decarbonizing thermal energy production.

PVS Chemicals Belgium N.V. (PVS) has successfully started up a new MECS converter and steaming equipment, licensed by DuPont Clean Technologies (DuPont) at its sulfuric acid plant in Gent, Belgium. The new 4-pass converter which offers a plant capacity increase to approximately 300 mtpd sulfuric acid replaces two parallel converter trains. The converter upgrade along with new steaming equipment will allow PVS to double the plants saturated steam output. PVS will not only be able to supply steam generated from the new boilers to an industrial neighbor but will also prevent approximately 11,700 tons of CO2 from entering the atmosphere every year  roughly equivalent to planting 195,000 trees annually.

The PVS sulfuric acid plant in Gent is one of the few sites globally to produce ultra-high purity sulfuric acid, a critical ingredient for the semiconductor chip industry.

David Nicholson, President and CEO of PVS Chemicals Inc. says, This project and the teamwork, perseverance and hard work shown by all project members, including MECS field services who worked alongside us through successes and difficulties to deliver the plant, ensure PVS Belgium has a bright future. This project builds on the 126 years of history at this plant and gives it a new heart, so it is ready to run for decades to come.

Eli Ben-Shoshan, says, Sulfuric acid plants are key sources of carbon-free energy. By capturing that energy, the industry can contribute to decarbonizing thermal energy production. We are delighted to be able to assist PVS Chemicals in that aim and to help the plant optimize energy recovery while ensuring reliable, high quality sulfuric acid production so the plant can consistently meet production capacity targets.

PVS anticipates that this project will pay for itself within just a few years through the achieved capacity increase and long-term steam supply contract.

PVS kicked off its multi-phased plant revamp project in 2018 with a process and engineering assessment by DuPont who was subsequently commissioned with the license and engineering design of the MECS converter, catalyst and steaming equipment. The design included additional steaming equipment to maximize energy recovery and new generation MECS GEAR catalyst was selected to optimize CAPEX. Erection of the equipment, which started in early 2020, was hampered by the COVID-19 pandemic, but DuPont and PVS Belgium safely and successfully completed the erection and tie-in of the new equipment in partnership during a three-week turnaround. DuPont furthermore provided support during commissioning, training, start-up and performance tests.

PVS and DuPont will be co-presenting a paper on this project at CRU Sulphur 2021 on November 4, 2021. For further details visit: https://events.crugroup.com/sulphur/timetabled-agenda

About DuPont Clean Technologies

The Clean Technologies division of DuPont is a global leader in process technology licensing & engineering, with an unwavering commitment to customer support. We provide extensive global expertise across our portfolio of offerings in key applications - MECS sulfuric acid production, STRATCO alkylation, BELCO wet scrubbing and IsoTherming hydroprocessing. Offering critical process equipment, products, technology, and services, we enable an array of industrial markets, including phosphate fertilizer, non-ferrous metals, oil refining, petrochemicals and chemicals, to minimize their environmental impact and optimize productivity. We are dedicated to helping our customers produce high-quality products used in everyday life in the safest, most environmentally-sound way possible, with a vision to make the world a better place by creating clean alternatives to traditional industrial processes. We make everyday life better, safer, cleaner. http://www.cleantechnologies.dupont.com

About DuPont

DuPont (NYSE: DD) is a global innovation leader with technology-based materials and solutions that help transform industries and everyday life. Our employees apply diverse science and expertise to help customers advance their best ideas and deliver essential innovations in key markets including electronics, transportation, construction, water, healthcare, and worker safety. More information about the company, its businesses and solutions can be found at http://www.dupont.com. Investors can access information included on the Investor Relations section of the website at investors.dupont.com.

# # #

DuPont, the DuPont Oval Logo, and all trademarks and service marks denoted with ,  or  are owned by affiliates of DuPont de Nemours, Inc. unless otherwise noted.
Some of the team members at this years Adopt-A-Street project! The idea is for everyone to represent someone or a group of people here at RAM. Everyone respects each other for who they are and their differences, and what they can bring.- Cabrella Perkins, Human Resource Specialist, RAM Pavement.

RAM Pavement, a local paving company in Charlotte, North Carolina, has once again proven why they are the Carolinas #1 choice for not only paved asset management but also for any qualified person looking for a job in the paving industry. The company has always prided itself on the dedication of its team, and on the diversity of its team members. They are made up of people from all walks of life with different ages, genders, races, religions and nationality origins.

In light of the social injustices that have plagued the nation, RAMs President, Robert Miller and his leadership team were motivated to create their own Diversity Committee within the company.

We wanted to have a proactive approach. I sent a video to the entire company about where I stood with things and what we did and did not tolerate here at RAM. We decided to take it a step further and the leadership team created a Diversity Committee where the people who are being challenged the most can have a voice -Robert Miller, President of RAM Pavement.

The committee is headed by their Human Resource Specialist Cabrella Perkins who was nominated by RAMs leadership team.

I was honored to be the head because it felt like they trusted my opinion and what I can bring to the table. It allowed me to bring together people from all different backgrounds to have a voice. When we get together, we love coming up with ideas. It really means a lot to all of us to be able to come together to make a difference- Cabrella Perkins, Human Resource Specialist, RAM Pavement.

The groups main objectives are representation and community support. The members get together once a month for breakfast, where they discuss issues that are topical. Politics, social issues and how they can make a difference in the community are all discussed. The meeting provides a safe space to share honest opinions.

During this time, people get to talk and it often opens people's eyes to a different perspective. We represent everyone from RAM and though not everyone is not included in that meeting, they basically have a voice to say Im bothered, Im concerned about this, Im feeling uneasy. The idea is for everyone to represent someone or a group of people here at RAM. Everyone respects each other for who they are and their differences, and what they can bring.- Cabrella Perkins, Human Resource Specialist, RAM Pavement.

Community initiatives are a big part of their agenda. With their Adopt-A-Street City of Charlotte clean up being a huge success, the group is excited to execute every activity planned. These activities provide the perfect bonding time as the entire company is invited to participate. Team members often bring along their families and everyone has a great time.

RAM Pavement is known to provide quality services to their clients, which is the result of management truly taking care of its team members. It is pertinent that everyone on the team feels included, heard and appreciated and thats exactly what the Diversity Committee accomplishes. The paving company is always looking for more ways to better its workforce, their community and the company as a whole. When you are ready to start your next paving project, work with a company that puts its people and clients first. Contact RAM Pavement.


With System Innovators end-to-end solution, the City of Sacramento can manage all payments and revenue activities from one central platform. We selected System Innovators because we wanted a single trusted solution for both online and in-person payments."

System Innovators (SI), a division of N. Harris Computer Corporation, is pleased to announce that the City of Sacramento, Calif. has selected the iNovah Enterprise Revenue Management (ERM) solution to streamline payments and revenue across the organization. The City joins twelve other California clients, including the City of San Jose, San Diego County, the City of Long Beach and the City of Anaheim, in trusting iNovah to modernize citizen payments.

System Innovators iNovah platform is a secure and flexible enterprise revenue management solution that can be customized to meet the needs of any government. iNovah powers both online and in-person payment channels, leveraging real-time integrations across multiple departments to offer a 360-degree view of revenue in one central system.

The iNovah solution will be adopted city-wide in nine departments, including agencies such as the Department of Finance, the City Clerks Office, the Utilities Department, and the Sacramento Police Department. iNovah delivers the City of Sacramento a fully integrated platform for payments and revenue management, including auditing, reporting, and reconciliation. System Innovators unique configurable abilities will allow each City department to use iNovah specific to their needs through built-in interfaces to their various systems of records.

We selected System Innovators because we wanted a single trusted solution for both online and in-person payments, said Natasha Greer, IT Program Specialist. System Innovators superior product, experience with similar integrations, and robust reporting drove us to choose the iNovah platform to manage our revenue.

The City also gains increased functionality for accounting and reconciling revenue, simplifying day-to-day financial management. iNovah enables the City to centrally administer payment types, offices, tenders and user setup for a streamlined revenue management experience. System Innovators secure payment technology will also reduce the Citys PCI security scope for credit card processing, providing additional cost savings and new operational efficiencies for City staff.

We are looking forward to the seamless transmission of information between the general ledger and our back-end systems. This, along with other improvements, will allow the City to provide better, more efficient service to the community, said Natasha Greer, IT Program Specialist.

System Innovators looks forward to partnering with the City of Sacramento and welcomes them into the System Innovators family. Sacramentos vision to deliver exceptional service is a commitment we both share, said Jeff Sumner, Executive Vice President of System Innovators. Our objective is to develop a solution that lays a foundation for future innovations in serving both the City and its citizens.

About System Innovators

System Innovators, a division of N. Harris Computer Corporation, is the leading provider of enterprise revenue management solutions for governments across North America. Over 100 cities, counties, states, and utilities trust System Innovators to provide a seamless customer payment experience through channels including online, kiosk, IVR, and point-of-sale. With over 700 integrations to government host and financial systems, System Innovators simplifies revenue management through one centralized solution for payments, audits, reporting, and reconciliation.
This course is simply incredible -- the breadth of what students will learn is both deep and wide in what it emcompasses. I cannot wait to see some of the creations that our students will construct.

The French Pastry School, the only major culinary school in North America dedicated to all things sweet and baked, has once again joined forces with Rouxbe, the worlds leading online culinary school, to introduce a new course: Cake Baking and Decorating Arts. This immersive 180-day online course will help turn students into master cake decorators and bakers in the comfort of their own kitchens.

Developed by The French Pastry School master bakers, Jacquy Pfeiffer and Sebastien Canonne, M.O.F., this immersive course dives into cake baking and decorating at the highest standard. The course includes 80 hours of instruction, more than 80 recipes ranging from classic sponge cake to traditional buttercream and at the end of the course, students will earn 80 credit hours from the American Culinary Federation and a certificate of completion.

Creating beautiful cakes is truly an art form, but one that with the right techniques and tools, anyone can succeed at, said Jacquy Pfeiffer, President and Founder of The French Pastry School. This course is simply incredible -- the breadth of what students will learn is both deep and wide in what it emcompasses. I cannot wait to see some of the creations that our students will construct.

Highlights of the course include basics of baking, how to prepare your cake decorating studio, cornerstone ingredients, fillings and frostings, fondant making, buttercream and royal icing piping, hand-sculpting and making sugar flowers, chocolate figurines and other cake decorations. Throughout the course, students will receive Chef support, grading and individualized constructive feedback.

This is by far the most comprehensive online cake baking and decorating arts course available, and we are proud to partner with The French Pastry School to bring this course to life, said Ken Rubin, Chief Culinary Officer at Rouxbe. This class is for everyone with a passion for cake decorating, from the novice looking for a solid foundation to more seasoned bakers looking to take their cake artistry to the next level.

The inaugural Cake Baking and Decorating Arts course begins October 27, with subsequent cohorts available on an ongoing basis. Course content is 100% online and available 24 hours a day. Students also receive lifetime access to the course after course completion.

We pride ourselves on providing students the support they need to become better, more confident bakers, continued Rubin.

With this instructor-guided course, students have an opportunity to interact with the Rouxbe support team in multiple ways. This includes regular live online Q&A sessions for the student community. Additionally, there are discussion forums to engage with classmates and the French Pastry School and Rouxbe instructional team.

For more information and to enroll, please visit https://www.frenchpastryschool.com/cake-baking-and-decorating-arts-course/

The French Pastry School

Founded in 1995, The French Pastry School of Kennedy-King College at City Colleges of Chicago is the only major culinary school in North America dedicated to all things sweet and baked. FPS provides hands-on education taught entirely in our state-of-the-art kitchens by world-renowned chefs. Co-founders, Sebastien Canonne, M.O.F., and Jacquy Pfeiffer, James Beard Award-winning author, are both recipients of the French Legion of Honour Award, the most prestigious award given by France. Both chefs were featured in the "Kings of Pastry" documentary filmed by Oscar winner D.A. Pennebaker and Chris Hegedus.

About Rouxbe

Rouxbe the worlds leading online culinary school, was founded in 2005 to train people of all abilities to become better, more confidenteven healthiercooks in kitchens around the world. With high-definition videos, world-class instructors, peer support and interactive assignments, Rouxbe has set the bar as the new standard in culinary education, providing certificate-level instruction not only to quality restaurants and hospitality organizations but also to serious home cooks and career changers. Rouxbes revolutionary online platform delivers cutting-edge e-learning solutions that drive and measure learning outcomes and engagement while providing effective, lower-cost alternatives for training professional cooks. Rouxbe programs are also recognized by both the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation and by WorldChefs as approved training programs.
We are beyond excited to return to Las Vegas and Reconnect with the industry for EXHIBITORLIVE 2021. We look most forward to this show every year because its our show, where colleagues from our industry get together, share ideas and refuel our passion for face-to-face marketing."

The Trade Groupan award-winning event marketing and experiential design firmis pleased to announce that the company will be returning to EXHIBITORLIVE, a professional development conference for trade show and corporate event marketing enthusiasts. The annual event runs October 31-November 3, 2021, at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.

According to The Trade Groups Chief Revenue Officer Malcolm Gilvar, We are beyond excited to return to Las Vegas and Reconnect with the industry for EXHIBITORLIVE 2021. We look most forward to this show every year because its our show, where colleagues from our industry get together, share ideas and refuel our passion for face-to-face marketing. After what has been a historically challenging time for our industry, were 100% ready to celebrate what the future holds.

EXHIBITORLIVE 2021 will be the events official long-awaited LIVE return since COVID-19, as the pandemic forced delays and cancelation of the event in 2020.

Experience Experiences. The Trade Group looks forward to shining a spotlight on their core competency of crafting unique and engaging experiences - honed over the past two decades supporting many of the nations most recognizable consumer brands.

When most people think of exhibit design for B-to-B events they are limited to a narrow set of tools that include structure, lighting, video and meeting spaces. Over the years, working with consumer brands we have broadened that toolset to include anything the imagination allows from double-deckers with slides, army tank demolitions, to sumo wrestling competitions - all providing immersive experiences that create deep connections with consumers who leave the event as brand advocates. Our job, working with our B-to-B exhibitors is to understand their brand, the wants and needs of their target buyer and design an exhibit solution that will use experiential elements to attract, engage, and immerse - the possibilities are endless, Gilvar says.

The Trade Group welcomes EXHIBITORLIVE attendees and other exhibitors to stop by booth #339, say hello, and reconnect. Representatives will be available to discuss the latest advancements in exhibit design, interactive technology, motion graphics, videography, experiential marketing, brand activations and more.

To learn more about The Trade Groups event marketing solutions, call (800) 343-2005 or visit tradegroup.com.

ABOUT THE TRADE GROUP

The Trade Group is an award-winning, full-service event marketing and creative design firm specializing in exhibit design and fabrication, graphic design and production, videography, experiential marketing and more. Since 1986, the companys team of event, design, and engineering experts has helped thousands of clients amplify their brands and successfully navigate a wide range of events and experiences.
USOSM President and CEO Richard Hall says company is honored to partner with Oyster Point Oral & Facial Surgery of Newport News, VA. USOSM is a notable business expert with a network of some of the brightest minds our industry has to offer. Collaborating with them will be beneficial for us and for our patients.

U.S. Oral Surgery Management (USOSM)  a specialty management services company that exclusively serves premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons  has formed a partnership with Oyster Point Oral & Facial Surgery of Newport News, VA. This is USOSMs first partner practice in the state.

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, USOSM now has partner practices spanning 17 states: Texas, Colorado, Georgia, Tennessee, Minnesota, Alabama, Oklahoma, Louisiana, South Carolina, Mississippi, Florida, Indiana, Kentucky, Arizona, California, Oregon and Virginia.

Were excited to announce our first partner practice in the state of Virginia: Oyster Point Oral & Facial Surgery, which has a widespread reputation for exceptional patient care and integrity. Dr. Ray Lee and his team are highly skilled, trained, compassionate, innovative and enthusiastic. Were honored to partner with them, said Richard Hall, USOSM president and CEO.

Led by N. Ray Lee, DDS, Oyster Point Oral & Facial Surgery offers a full scope of oral and maxillofacial surgery (OMS) services, with particular expertise in dental implant surgery, wisdom tooth removal, corrective jaw surgery and facial cosmetic procedures, as well as diagnosing and treating facial pain, injuries and fractures. Board-certified by the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr. Lee has been in OMS private practice for more than 30 years. He is a member of numerous professional organizations, has written a variety of published papers and book chapters on OMS topics, and has lectured nationally and internationally on sleep related breathing disorders.

In addition, Dr. Lee is the designer and developer of the Genial Bone Advancement Trephine Surgical Procedure and the medical instruments used for the surgery in conjunction with Stryker Leibinger Corp. Dr. Lee also designed and developed the OSA Plating System in cooperation with the Osteomed Corporation.

USOSM is a notable business expert with a network of some of the brightest minds our industry has to offer. Collaborating with them will be beneficial for us and for our patients. That is why I think this premier team will bring a superior level of care to the patients of Oyster Point Oral and Facial Surgery, said Dr. Lee.

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, USOSM is a shared services organization that collaborates with premier oral and maxillofacial surgeons to offer a partnership solution for continued and accelerated practice success. USOSM provides operational, marketing and administrative support services, reinvests resources, and applies best practices to improve clinical and financial performance and produce steadier, more profitable growth for all. For more information, visit https://www.usosm.com/.
Poster for the Mining Needs You Virtual Career Fair

vFairs has announced its partnership with Mining Industry Human Resources Council (MiHR), Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC), and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy and Petroleum (CIM) for an upcoming virtual career fair. The event, Mining Needs You Virtual Career Fair, will take place on November 8 & 9, 2021.

The partnering hosts, MiHR, PDAC and CIM, combined will cover the sectors entire life cycle. Thus job seekers will have the opportunity to explore careers in exploration, mining, milling and fabrication with up to 30 different hiring employers. Attendees will be able to network with employers and other sector representatives, and apply to work placements and openings across these fields.

In addition to exploring career opportunities, attendees can watch webinars on topics around the state of the industry, what jobs are available, where the jobs are and more. The event will feature a joint webinar by MiHR, PDAC and CIM as well as individual webinars by each of the host organizations. This will give attendees more well-rounded information about the industry in general, plus details related to their specific area of interest.

We are honoured to partner with MiHR, PDAC and CIM as they help Canadians find job opportunities and drive growth through this virtual career fair, said Muhammad Younas, CEO of vFairs. Choosing to host virtual events with vFairs will help these organizations reach more Canadian job seekers and reach the scope of candidates and employers looking to fill roles.

The event is free and open to anyone interested in jobs in the mining industry, including post-secondary graduates, those searching for jobs within mining communities, and current mining industry workers interested in other career paths in mining. Interested job seekers can register now via this link.
Alessandra Balzer at HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray has acquired, at auction, Aleema Omotoni's debut Everyone's Thinking It, a YA novel pitched as a loose reimagining of A Midsummer Night's Dream if Shakespeare grew up watching Mean Girls and Dear White People. At an elite boarding school in the English countryside, Nigerian cousins Iyanu and Kitan are thrown into the middle of a schoolwide conspiracy when everyone's juicy relationship secrets are released, Burn Book style, the week before the annual Valentine's Day Ball. Publication is planned for spring 2023; Claire Friedman at InkWell Management negotiated the two-book deal for North American rights.



Sarah Grill at Wednesday Books has bought Amanda Quain's The Ghosts Are a Metaphor, a genderswapped YA contemporary retelling of Northanger Abbey pitched as Never Have I Ever meets The X-Files, in which skeptic Hattie Tilney has to navigate the grief of her paranormal-loving father's death after being assigned to investigate her (allegedly) haunted high school alongside transfer student Kit Morland, whose passion for ghost hunting makes Hattie want to believe in somethingand someonefor the first time. Publication is set for spring 2023; Moe Ferrara at BookEnds Literary did the deal for world English rights.



Claire Stetzer at Inkyard Press has acquired, in an exclusive submission, The Scarlet Alchemist by Kylie Lee Baker (The Keeper of Night), a dark YA fantasy duology set in an alternate Tang Dynasty China, where alchemy has led to income inequality as the rich eat gold to achieve eternal youth, and a poor biracial girl with the ability to raise the dead gets caught up in the dangerous political games of the royal family. Publication is scheduled for fall 2023; Mary C. Moore at Kimberley Cameron & Associates brokered the two-book deal for world English rights.



Stacey Barney at Penguin/Paulsen has bought We Built This City by Cat Patrick (Tornado Brain). The middle grade novel is about a 13-year-old girl on tour of the East Coast in August 1985 with the Signing Stars performing sign-language group, driven by a mission to reveal her secret crush as a Long-Distance Dedication on Casey Kasem's American Top 40 Countdown before the tour ends and eighth grade begins. Publication is slated for spring 2023; Daniel Lazar at Writers House sold North American rights.



Hilary Van Dusen and Olivia Swomley at Candlewick/MIT Kids have acquired world rights to The Adventures of Maker Girl and Professor Smarts by debut graphic novelist Jasmine Florentine in a two-book deal. Twelve-year-old best friends Yaya and Chuy prove that you don't have to have superpowers to defeat supervillains; all you need is a love for physics and engineering and a knack for trouble. Publication is planned for spring 2024 and spring 2025; Jemiscoe Chambers-Black at Andrea Brown Literary Agency negotiated the deal.



Trisha de Guzman at FSG has bought, in an exclusive submission, world rights to The Ghosts of Rancho Espanto and an untitled middle grade novel by Adrianna Cuevas (The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez; Cuba in My Pocket), about a Cuban American boy who is sent to work on a ranch as punishment for a school prank gone wrong, where he's confronted with an inexplicable mystery that reveals his greatest fears and forces him to rely on unexpected allies. Publication is set for winter 2023; Stefanie Sanchez Von Borstel at Full Circle Literary brokered the deal.



Josh Gregory at Albert Whitman has acquired an all-new contemporary middle grade series spinoff of The Boxcar Children, written by Stacia Deutsch, in a four-book deal beginning with The Jessie Files: The Friendship Feature in summer 2022. Deborah Warren at East West Literary Agency sold world rights.



Katie Carella at Scholastic Acorn has bought, in a three-book deal, world rights to Zoya Glitters!, a new early reader series by Valerie Bolling (l.), illustrated by Kai Robinson. This series follows a young artist and her dog, Coco, as they explore their creativity, with a dash of glitter all around. The first two books are scheduled for summer 2023, and the third book for fall 2023; James McGowan at BookEnds represented the author, and the illustrator represented themselves.



Nikki Garcia at Little, Brown has acquired, in an exclusive submission, world rights to Sumo Libre by author-illustrator Joe Cepeda. The picture book tells the story of Max, who loves Lucha Libre, and Kenji, who loves Sumo wrestling, and how their disagreement about which is better leads the friends to create something unexpected and spectacular. Publication is slated for summer 2024; Jennifer Rofe at Andrea Brown Literary Agency negotiated the deal.



Megan Ilnitzki at HarperCollins has bought world rights to author-illustrator Breanna Carzoo's picture book Greenlight, in which a lonely green traffic light, confused by why the cars race away every time they see her, quits shining until the resulting traffic jam illuminates the power and connection of her own light. Publication is planned for summer 2023; Adria Goetz at Martin Literary Management handled the deal.



Catherine Frank at Peachtree has acquired, at auction, world rights to The Bard and His Book, a narrative nonfiction book by Ann Bausum, about how the First Folio saved the plays of William Shakespeare from oblivion. The book traces the advent of collecting the works of great writers for preservation, celebrating both the written word and books as objects, along with Shakespeare himself. Publication is set for spring 2024; Hannah Mann at Writers House brokered the deal.



Kathleen Merz at Eerdmans has bought world English rights to Carly Allen-Fletcher's Kingdoms of Life, which lays out the scientific kingdom model of classification while offering a glimpse of the weird and wonderful inhabitants of our planet. Publication is scheduled for fall 2023; Anna Olswanger of Olswanger Literary represented the author-illustrator.



Esther Cajahuaringa while at Little, Brown acquired world rights to Daughters of the Sun by Ann Whitford Paul Honor recipient Belen Medina Cabot (l.), illustrated by Caldecott Honor artist Juana Martinez-Neal; Andrea Spooner will edit. The picture book is about the interconnectedness of immigration and migration through the eyes of a human and a monarch butterfly. Publication is slated for fall 2024; Deborah Warren at East West Literary Agency represented the author, and Stefanie Sanchez Von Borstel at Full Circle Literary Agency represented the artist.



Anne Schwartz at Random House/Schwartz has bought This Baby. That Baby, by Cari Best (l.), illustrated by 2017 Sendak Fellow Rashin Kheiriyeh. In this picture book, two big city babies, who live in buildings opposite one another, wave to each other from their respective windows... until naptime separates them. But how will they reconnect after they wake up? Publication is planned for spring 2024. Melanie Kroupa at Rubin Pfeffer Content negotiated world rights for the author, and the illustrator negotiated world rights, excluding Farsi.



Luana Kay Horry at HarperCollins has acquired world rights to Every Day Is a Holiday, written by antibias-antiracist educator Liz Kleinrock (l.) and illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat. This picture book decenters Christmas as the "holiday season" by introducing various American classmates who celebrate diverse holidays almost every month of the year. Publication is set for fall 2023; Emily Sylvan Kim at Prospect Agency represented the author, and Christy Ewers at the CAT Agency represented the illustrator.



Ann Kelley at Random House Studio has bought world rights to Night Market by Seina Wedlick (l.), illustrated by Briana Mukodiri Uchendu. The picture book follows a girl who spends 20 gold coins during one fantastical night at a Nigerian night market. Publication is scheduled for summer 2024; Alice Fugate at Joy Harris Literary Agency represented the author, and Jessica Saint Jean at Jill Grinberg Literary Management represented the illustrator.



Courtney Code and Sara Sproull at Abrams has acquired, at auction, world rights to Why We Dance by Saddle Lake Cree author Deidre Havrelock (l.) and Shoshone-Bannock illustrator Aly McKnight, a picture book celebration of Jingle Dress dancing, and a second untitled picture book. Publication is slated for fall 2023; Amy Tompkins at Transatlantic Agency represented the author, and the illustrator was unagented.



Kate Riggs at Creative Editions has bought world rights to Armando's Island by Marsha Diane Arnold (l.), illustrated by Yvonne Gilbert, a picture book about a man who steadfastly protects his rainforest "island" as a solitary refuge for the animals and plants he loves. Publication is planned for fall 2023; Karen Grencik at Red Fox Literary represented the author, and the illustrator represented herself.



Carol Hinz at Lerner/Millbrook Press has acquired Poop for Breakfast by Sara Levine (l.), illustrated by Florence Weiser. This humorous nonfiction picture book introduces readers to animals that eat poop and shares the science behind why they do this. Publication is set for spring 2023; Ammi-Joan Paquette at Erin Murphy Literary represented the author, and Alex Gehringer at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator.



Kayla Tostevin at Page Street Kids has bought world rights to Along Came a Radioactive Spider: Strange Steve Ditko and the Creation of Spider-Man by Annie Hunter Eriksen, illustrated by Lee Gatlin (l.), the duo behind With Great Power: The Marvelous Stan Lee. This biography centers on the comic book artist's undercredited role in shaping the Marvel hero. Publication is scheduled for spring 2023; Jennie Kendrick at Red Fox Literary represented the author, and Elena Giovinazzo at Pippin Properties represented the illustrator.

Stacey Barney at Penguin/Nancy Paulsen Books has acquired The Invocations by Krystal Sutherland, a contemporary fantasy thriller about three lonely teenage girlsone cursed, one hunted, one out for revengewho team up to track down and take out a brutal supernatural killer in a world where only women can use magic and the men who know about it seek to eradicate them. Publication is planned for fall 2023; Catherine Drayton at InkWell Management brokered the deal for North American rights.



Elise Howard at Algonquin Young Readers has bought L.M. Elliott's photo-illustrated historical YA novel Gates. The story centers on a teen girl serving as a Capitol page in 1973the year of Watergate and President Nixon's unraveling presidencyfollowing the ways in which she and her politically minded friends must evolve their thinking in a time that forces them to question everything, including what they believe about the ERA and Phyllis Schlafly's fear-mongering campaign against it. Publication is set for 2024; Katelyn Detweiler at Jill Grinberg Literary Management did the deal for world rights.



Wendy Loggia at Delacorte has acquired Picture Perfect Boyfriend by Becky Dean (Love & Other Great Expectations), in which an aspiring photographer is forced to play along when, after lying about having the ideal boyfriend, the fictional guy shows up during her family vacation to Maui. Publication is scheduled for summer 2023; Eva Scalzo at Speilburg Literary negotiated the deal for world rights.



Ben Rosenthal at HarperCollins/Katherine Tegen Books has bought, in an exclusive submission, Manifest Atlas by Samuel Miller, a YA thriller set in a forgotten town in the Ozarks, which follows an unlikely group of teenagers who discover a dead body while playing an app-based adventure game. Through the game, they uncover the dark underbelly of their community, and must rely on each other to survive as the murder throws their town into chaos. Publication is slated for summer 2023; Joanna Volpe at New Leaf Literary & Media handled the two-book deal for North American rights.



Emily Feinberg at Roaring Brook Press has acquired world rights to The Light of Resistance by Kirsten W. Larson (l.), author of A True Wonder: The Comic Book Hero Who Changed Everything. Larson's debut middle grade graphic novel is about the heroism of Rose Valland, who, through masterful spying during WWII, managed to help locate and save over 60,000 famous works of art. Barbara McClintock (Adele and Simon) will illustrate; publication is planned for spring 2023. Lara Perkins at Andrea Brown Literary Agency represented the author, and Jennie Dunham at Dunham Literary represented the illustrator.



Miriam Newman at Candlewick has bought world rights to the first three books in a chapter book series about magic, puppies, and found family by A.R. Capetta (all pronouns) (l.) and Charlene Chua (she/they). Hocus and Pocus stars two puppies adopted from a shelter for Slightly Magical Pets and three young witch's apprentices who, when brought under the same roof, create more trouble than anybody in the cast of gender-diverse characters bargained for. The first book is set for spring 2024; Sara Crowe at Pippin Properties represented the author, and Tracy Marchini at BookEnds represented the illustrator.



Regan Winter while at Little, Brown acquired Gender Identity for Kids by Andy Passchier (What Are Your Words?), a chapter book guide in which the author helps break down what gender is and isn't, what your feelings around gender might mean, and how to let the world know who you are and help others do the same. Andrea Colvin and Aria Balraj will edit. Publication is scheduled for summer 2023; Alex Gehringer at the Bright Agency brokered the deal for world rights.



Nancy Paulsen at Penguin/Nancy Paulsen Books has bought world rights to three picture books by Newbery Honor author Derrick Barnes (top l.) in an exclusive submission. In Like Lava in My Veins, a boy learns how to harness his superpower with the help of a loving teacher, illustrated by Shawn Martinbrough (top r.); it will be published in summer 2023. Santa Has Got to Go, about a visit from Santa that goes on a little too long, is illustrated by Courtney Lovett (bottom l.) and will be published in fall 2023. Brothers, a look at the unbreakable bond between siblings, is illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice (bottom r.) and will be published in fall 2024. Regina Brooks of Serendipity Literary Agency represented Barnes and Martinborough, Jemiscoe Chambers-Black at Andrea Brown Literary Agency represented Lovett, and Christy Ewers at the CAT Agency represented Justice.



Lauri Hornik at Dial Books for Young Readers has acquired world rights to three picture book texts by Ying Chang Compestine (l.) (Revolution Is Not a Dinner Party). The Real Story of Ra Pu Zel is a feminist retelling of Rapunzel set in China; it will be illustrated by debut artist Crystal Kung for publication in fall 2023. Growing Up During the Cultural Revolution is a memoir of the author's childhood in China in the 1960s. And the third will be a fictional picture book with content to be determined. The author and illustrator represented themselves.



Neal Porter at Holiday House/Neal Porter Books has bought world rights to Life After Whale by Lynn Brunelle (l.) (Turn This Book into a Beehive), a picture book about a whale whose death starts what is known as a whale fall, a process in which the whales carcass becomes a gift to thousands of ocean dwellers for generations. Caldecott and Sibert Honoree Jason Chin will illustrate; publication is slated for fall 2023. Kelly Sonnack at Andrea Brown Literary Agency represented the author, and the illustrator represented himself.



Cynthia Leitich Smith and Rosemary Brosnan at HarperCollins/Heartdrum have acquired world rights to Aaniin, a picture book by Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe citizen Dawn Quigley (l.) (the Jo Jo Makoons series), illustrated by Dine/Chicana painter and illustrator Nani Chacon. In the book, the Ojibwe Seven Grandfathers teachings are used to give children guidelines for living a good life. Publication is planned for summer 2024; Erin Murphy at Erin Murphy Literary represented the author, and the illustrator represented herself.



Martha Mihalick at Greenwillow has bought North American rights to Forever and Always by Brittany J. Thurman (l.), illustrated by Shamar Knight-Justice. In this picture book, as Olivia waits for Daddy to come home, her day drags on until she constructs a plan to tick away the seconds, one idea which becomes a gift for Daddy, to keep him safe always. Publication is set for winter 2024; Marietta B. Zacker at Gallt and Zacker Literary Agency represented the author, and Christy Ewers at the CAT Agency represented the illustrator.



Luana Kay Horry has acquired world rights to four titles in the Ally Baby Can series, a rhyming picture book series written by Nyasha Williams (l.) and illustrated by Jade Orlando, which introduces allyship to tiny change-makers. In the first two titles, scheduled for summer 2022, readers will learn how to be effective antiracist and feminist allies. Lary Rosenblatt and Barbara Stewart at 22MediaWorks represented the author, and Anne Moore Armstrong at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator.



Maria Russo at mineditionUS has bought world rights to I'm Me and You're You by Maggie Pouncey (l.), illustrated by Dasha Tolstikova. In this picture book, a mother and child have a playful and profound conversation that touches on identity, place, and love, while walking home through an urban neighborhood. Publication is slated for fall 2023; Jennifer Carlson at Dunow, Carlson & Lerner represented Pouncey, and Tolstikova represented herself.



Dani Valladares at Rodale Kids has acquired world rights to Heavy Heart, a debut picture book by Brad Davidson (l.), illustrated by Rachel Mas Davidson. Rabbit is excited to go fishing with Bear, but Bear has too many sads for a fun day out. After trying to cheer him up, they both realize that sometimes just being with a friend is the best help. Publication is planned for spring 2023; Christa Heschke at McIntosh & Otis represented the author and the illustrator.



Kathy Landwehr at Peachtree has bought world rights to Lali's Flip Flops by Indian American author Farhana Zia (l.), illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman. This picture book showcases the rewards of both generosity and of being a good friend. Publication is set for summer 2023; Jennifer Unter at the Unter Agency represented the author, and Anne Moore Armstrong at the Bright Agency represented the illustrator.



Andrea Posner-Sanchez at Little Golden Books has acquired world rights to JaNay Brown-Wood's (l.) picture book biography titled Harriet Tubman, a story about the inspirational life of Harriet Tubman and the amazing things she accomplished despite the many challenges she faced, to be illustrated by Robert Paul, Jr. Publication is scheduled for December 2022; Karen Grencik at Red Fox Literary represented the author, and Christy Ewers at the CAT Agency represented the illustrator.



Kristine Enderle at Magination Press has bought world rights to Big Bold Beautiful Me by Jane Yolen (l.) and her granddaughter, Maddison Stemple-Piatt (c.), illustrated by Chloe Burgett (r.). It's a picture book about loving one's body and appreciating our unique characteristics that help us do special things. Publication is slated for fall 2022; Elizabeth Harding at Curtis Brown represented the authors, and Christy Ewers at the CAT Agency represented the illustrator.



Jonah Heller at Peachtree has acquired world rights to All by Myself by Stephanie Shaw (l.), illustrated by debut artist Emilie Gill. Strong-willed and independent, Hen is an absolute boss at getting things done just the way she likes it. But when Fox comes along, Hen's friends must decide whether or not to offer help that Hen hasn't asked for. Publication is planned for spring 2023; Marisa Cleveland at the Seymour Agency represented the author, and the illustrator represented herself.



Christopher Robbins at Familius has bought world rights to Chalk the Walk by Chelsea Tornetto (Gardens Are for Growing). This picture book shows that with a little imagination and a bucket of chalk, an ordinary cityscape can be transformed into a masterpiece. Publication is scheduled for spring 2024; Melissa Richeson at Storm Literary Agency represented the author.


Students get hands-on experience in the newly named Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, the largest academic unit at Purdue. The undergraduate ECE program at Purdue is ranked 10th in the nation by U.S. News and World Report. (Photo taken prior to COVID-19). Purdue University photo/Susan Fleck)

HAMMOND, Ind.  The Purdue University Board of Trustees on Friday (Aug. 6) approved naming the School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) for the family of alumnus William B. Elmore in recognition of a $25 million gift.

The school will be known as the Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. To maximize the impact of the gift, the school will distribute funds to address both short- and long-term needs and opportunities including the initiation of research and education centers alongside retention and recruitment support for faculty and students.

The goal is to enable and sustain significant research and education efforts that will advance the frontiers of knowledge, have transformative impact on society and catapult the Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering to national and international preeminence, said Dimitri Peroulis, the Michael and Katherine Birck Head and Reilly Professor of ECE.

Today, we are happy to launch the first Elmore ECE Emerging Frontiers Center, called Crossroads of Quantum and AI, and the first Cognitive Computing Institute at Purdue. On the education front, we intend to create additional undergraduate opportunities in AI and a new focus area on semiconductors for our graduate students this year. Furthermore, we plan to aggressively expand our field-defining efforts in the areas of virtual labs, AI-enabled personalized learning and online education.

Elmore (BS EE75, MS EE76), who grew up in Centerville, Ohio, now lives near San Francisco, where he established a highly successful career in the venture capital business.

In 1995, Elmore co-founded Foundation Capital, a venture capital firm based in Palo Alto, California, that invests primarily in enterprise, financial and consumer technology companies. Foundation Capital companies include Netflix, Lending Club, SunRun and Chegg. Now an emeritus partner at Foundation Capital, he continues to invest full-time in promising technology startups. Elmore has served as a director of numerous private and public companies and works actively with the Purdue Research Foundation and in support of Purdue.

The universitys College of Engineering honored Elmores career and accomplishments with a Distinguished Engineering Alumni/Alumnae Award in 2017. He also received the Outstanding Electrical and Computer Engineer Award in 2003.

Purdue has been making great strides in advancing its mission  across many, many fronts  under the guidance of Mitch Daniels, and its always good to put energy and money behind great momentum, Elmore said. I also believe strongly in Purdues mission and the vision of the leadership team in the College of Engineering. And, of course, Purdue contributed a lot to my career.

Because several members of his extended family attended Purdue, Elmore chose to honor them in the naming the school.

Im not part of a multigenerational Purdue family, but I am part of a horizontal Purdue family  we all went to Purdue contemporaneously and had great experiences  and I wanted to recognize how much we all benefited from going to Purdue, Elmore said. What I'd really like is for this gift to inspire other folks of both my generation and younger generations to consider giving back in a major way to Purdue. Id like this to be an example that others could follow.

The newly named school of ECE, established in 1888, consists of 115 faculty members, 1,700 undergraduate students and 1,000 graduate students. According to U.S. News & World Reports Best Colleges rankings, Purdues undergraduate and graduate ECE programs rank 10th and 11th in the nation, respectively. U.S. News also ranks Purdues online masters program in electrical engineering No. 1 in the nation.

Bill Elmore has been a transformational leader in the technology venture field throughout the past decades. We are very proud of the pinnacle of excellence in his career and immensely grateful for the visionary generosity from Bill and the Elmore family, said Mung Chiang, executive vice president for strategic initiatives at Purdue and the John A. Edwardson Dean of the College of Engineering.

The Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering is not only the largest academic unit at Purdue, but also one of the most impactful ECE departments among the countrys top 10. With this naming gift from Bill and the momentum generated, and under the leadership of Dimitri Peroulis, we will propel Purdue ECEs learning, discovery, and engagement mission to new heights.

About Purdue University

Purdue University is a top public research institution developing practical solutions to todays toughest challenges. Ranked the No. 5 Most Innovative University in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, Purdue delivers world-changing research and out-of-this-world discovery. Committed to hands-on and online, real-world learning, Purdue offers a transformative education to all. Committed to affordability and accessibility, Purdue has frozen tuition and most fees at 2012-13 levels, enabling more students than ever to graduate debt-free. See how Purdue never stops in the persistent pursuit of the next giant leap at purdue.edu

Writer: Aaron Martin, ACMartin@purdueforlife.org

Sources: Mung Chiang

Dimitri Peroulis

William B. Elmore
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Channel 5 has expanded and refreshed its 5 News programme with the launch of an hour-long edition.

The new programme will deliver a greater depth of stories to a teatime audience  keeping the pace and tone of 5 News, with an increased emphasis on analysing the issues that affect their lives the most.

The programme, produced by ITN, will be presented by Sian Williams and Claudia-Liza Vanderpuije and run from 5pm to 6pm.

5 News will continue to engage viewers on a local level with a live team deployed across the UK. Theyll be out on the streets every day to hear how communities are impacted by political and economic decisions, giving space to under-represented voices and ideas.

For the first time on a daily news programme, viewers will be able to WhatsApp the presenters directly on 07555 500 501, giving the programme a stronger link with the audience. Channel 5 says its a commitment to listen to viewers and take their ideas seriously.

This innovation will also allow more crossover with the most talked-about issues raised on The Jeremy Vine Show in the mornings on Channel 5, which is also produced by ITN.

The new-look 5 News will also include a regular segment with presenter Sian Williams looking at mental health and wellbeing. Williams has 15 years experience in this area and has recently passed a Doctorate in Counselling Psychology, having spent three years delivering psychological therapy in the NHS and other areas. She will focus on telling positive stories from across the country, speaking to guests and viewers to share their experiences.

Editor Cait FitzSimons said: 5 News tells the stories that matter most to Britain. Our new look show is dedicated to increasing our stories from around the UK. Its a commitment to hearing how the decisions taken in Westminster filter down to towns and cities  and a chance for us to find the stories that arent being covered by other news programmes.

Williams added: Im really looking forward to this next chapter of news on Channel 5. The new 5 News will allow us to delve deeper into stories that matter to our viewers, including one of the biggest issues of our time: our mental wellbeing.

I'm passionate about good mental health and Im really looking forward to exploring how what goes on in the world, impacts our viewers lives. They have trust and confidence in us to tell their stories and I hope they will embrace and maybe have some fun with us too, as we begin the next generation of 5 News.

Vanderpuije commented: The new Channel 5 News continues to deliver everything weve always offered viewers; covering top stories, reaching out across the UK, talking about the issues people care about, but now we are taking that that much further. Its so exciting to be a part of such an ambitious project.
BIAS ALERT: Andrew Cockburn, the author of Spoils of War, is a longtime friend and colleague. While my views on him and his lifes work are heavily biased, the facts, analysis and anecdotes in this commentary should speak for themselves.

In 1981 Random House released James Fallows "National Defense to become both award-winning and bestselling. The book could be found on the desks of many congressional defense staffers, including my own in Senator Nancy L. Kassebaums (R-KS) office. National Defense was a revelation. Through sources, Fallows readily recognized in his acknowledgments, the book made it clear that much of my own and others analysis of the DoD budget and the weapons it bought were poorly, if not mis-, informed. More money did not make our defenses stronger; it made them weaker. The actual facts on various controversial weapons were not that they were more than we needed, too costly (even if effective), or destabilizing in the eyes of others. Many weapons were losers designed more for their complexity and resultant cost than for meaningful battlefield performance. In some cases, the Pentagon even perversely undermined effective weapons to keep its preferred systems on track. Had we done it right, we could have a larger, more effective force for less money.

That was forty years ago. The only thing that has changed is that things have gotten worse.

A new book now picks up many of Fallows' threads to tell us what has happened since 1981. Andrew Cockburn's "The Spoils of War: Power, Profit and the American War Machine," tells us, for example, Overall, despite remorseless growth in spending, the U.S. military continues to shrink, fielding fewer ships, aircraft, and ground combat units with every passing decade. Remarkably, more money apparently produces less defense. And, those smaller inventories are all too often not improvements but steps backward: compare, for example, as Cockburn shows, the performance of the high-cost F-35 to the older, cheaper A-10 to perform the close support mission (fighting with our troops engaged on the battlefield and hunting down threats coming at them). The new $7 billion-plus per ship Zumwalt class destroyer cannot perform its original mission (gunfire support for troops onshore), and the Navy is now changing it, at even more cost, to try to be a surface combatant with missiles. Just two examples of several cited.

But, its worse than that; as Cockburn demonstrates, some of our weapons actually help the enemy. Incompetent designs of equipment and aircraft killed our troops in September 2014 when an ill-suited, ill-equipped B-1B with an ill-trained crew killed five U.S. troops on a hilltop in Afghanistan, a tragedy that the Air Force then tried to pin on U.S. troops on the ground. Worse, Cockburn tells of the likely thousands of innocent civilians killed in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere by high tech drones that literally do not know what they are shooting at, albeit precisely: Both morally corrosive for us and a great boon to ISIS and the Taliban. Now the mainstream world has been unavoidably confronted with the problem from the internationally reported September 2021 drone strike in Kabul on a presumed ISIS terrorist, first declared righteous by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Milley but then found to be the murder of ten entirely innocent civilians. Cockburn has been following these killings for a decade, arguing not just about their wanton immorality but also the complete failure to prevent the expansion of terrorism.

Throughout "Spoils of War," Cockburn makes painfully clear that the shrinking of U.S. forces, while they age, are less trained and become more and more ill-suited for war-winning combat  all at ever-higher budgets -- comes independent of altering national strategies, constant changes in commanders and civilian leaders in the Pentagon or whether Democrats or Republicans control the White House or Congress.

It is, therefore, with real skepticism that we should view a recent report from the Congressional Budget Office that assures us that $1 trillion can be extracted from future defense budgets if we adopt any one of three military strategies ("deterrence by denial," "deterrence through punishment," or "maintaining the freedom of navigation in sea, air, and space), each incurring a selected reduction in forces and manpower. Nowhere does CBO address the pathologies, made manifest by Cockburn, that shows our forces being reduced over the decades with deteriorating effectiveness, aging inventories and less training  all at greater cost. CBO applies strategy lipstick to a lower-budget scenario. We know from Cockburns book that if CBOs prescription were to be imposed on the Pentagon that exists, utter chaos would prevail in an organization morally and mentally unequipped to survive  albeit grossly incompetently -- without constantly growing budgets. Some have argued the CBO prescription points the way, but as others have argued, badly needed, massive reductions in Pentagon spending can only be achieved after fundamental reform of its pre-existing cancers. Analysts at CBO are well aware of what has been happening in the DoD budget for decades that the organization would permit itself, even when asked to do so by the Chairman of the Senate Budget Committee, to produce this report prompts some serious questions.

Those above-mentioned needed reforms include the following:

Make sure the weapons testing process remains brutally rigorous, independent and reported to Congress and the public -- something President Bidens new testing nominee appears to be completely unequipped to do;

Insist that all acquisition programs are multiple competitive prototype competitions based on empirical testing before major production starts; i.e., real fly before buy -- something that most Pentagon managers have detested for decades;

acquisition programs are multiple competitive prototype competitions based on empirical testing before major production starts; i.e., real fly before buy -- something that most Pentagon managers have detested for decades; Not rewriting current acquisition rules but observing existing ones without always exploiting the loopholes, conveniently written by Congress, to avoid audits, fly before buy buying, killing off failed programs and much else;

Stop the revolving door wherein industry and Wall Street shuttle managers in and of DoD -- and the like-minded rotation of congressional staff to and from the Pentagon;

Demand real financial audits of the Pentagon, not the contractor-run exercises looking at just inventory and where the money is spent -- but how it is spent, especially as corporate overhead and in statements of profits, and

Relearn how to perform meaningful oversight inside DoD, Congress and think tanks  something that, quite deliberately, has become a lost art.

These ideas are hated and perennially avoided in the Pentagon and by its supplicants in Congress, the media, and many current think tanks. Given how poorly the Pentagon is run, it is a wonder that the opponents of reform have been so successful for so long.

Spoils of War is a compilation of Cockburns previous work for various publications, such as Harpers and the London Review of Books. He also updates each chapter with a very short epilogue. But even those written as early as 2014 are painfully and presciently relevant to todays issues. In Part IV, he adds three chapters on the mindboggling  but too often legal -- corruption on Wall Street and in international finance. This addition at first seems a bit off point  until you consider that the equally mindboggling  and too often legal -- foolishness in the Pentagon, defense corporations, Congress and the White House operate at the same level.

I regret to say that the current staffing system on Capitol Hill shows little evidence of potential interest in what Cockburn writes in Spoils of War, as there was in 1981 with Fallows National Defense. Overrun with specialists interested only in pushing whatever fluff they are told to push and pseudo-professional national security staffers who think too often of their next job in the Pentagon, industry or think thanks run by industry, Cockburns likely target audience on Capitol Hill are individuals poorly disposed to be seen in public with a copy of his book. It is the same for Members of the House and Senate -- if they have any time to read anything between media feedings and fundraising.

In another time, the kind of work that Cockburn has done for "Spoils of War" would gather nominations for prizes and placement on bestseller lists. It should have the kind of impact that Fallows' "National Defense" had in its time. That will not be happening in todays national security culture. But if you see a politician or a defense manager with a copy of Spoils of War, pay close attention; they just may give today's national security culture a good ride, and it will be for its money.

Winslow T. Wheeler worked for three decades for Republican and Democratic Senators and GAO on national security issues. He later ran the Center for Defense Information, now at the Project On Government Oversight. He is now semi-retired.
A problem in recent public commentary on tensions between China and Taiwan has been a conflation of what we know and what we fear. Nowhere is this more evident than on the topic of incursions by Chinese military aircraft into Taiwans air defence identification zone, or ADIZ.

This month saw a shift from a pattern of incremental increases in the number of Peoples Liberation Army Air Force aircraft participating in coordinated incursions into Taiwanese airspace to an exponential explosion. The campaign peaked at 56 aircraft on 4 October, with 159 over the four-day period of 14 October. The increase has prompted concerns that the threat of war across the Taiwan Strait is escalating.

But are these fears justified?

Overall, incidences of Chinese jets entering Taiwans airspace while flying directly towards the island have been rare this year. This is particularly the case for Chinas often mentioned nuclear capable Xian H-6 strategic bombers. Since 22 May, H-6 bombers have entered Taiwans airspace on only seven of the 82 days in which incursions were recorded. While a record of 12 H-6 bombers entered the ADIZ on 4 October, neither on this occasion nor on any other during this period were they headed towards the island.

By comparison, Shaanxi Y-8 anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft have been by far the most commonly observed aircraft, appearing on 59 of those 82 days. And like recent incursions involving H-6 bombers, these aircraft almost invariably headed away from, rather than towards, Taiwan. They typically cut across the ADIZ through the Taixinan Basin more than 200 kilometres south of Taiwan islandan area that is both strategically vital and suited to submarine warfareand were heading towards the Bashi Channel, which lies between Taiwan and the Philippines. The flight paths of most of these incursions varied little.

ASW aircraft can track submarine activity and, depending on the technology theyre equipped with, scan and map the seabed. The message their frequent incursions are sending is clear: China is undertaking exploratory or preliminary work aimed at mapping and/or preparing a passage for its navy through the first island chain via the Bashi Channel. It may also be positioning itself to cut off Taiwans key maritime and aviation lifelineswhich Taiwanese experts predict China will be able to do by 2025.

Other features of the incursions tell a similar story. According to data from Taiwans Ministry of National Defence, almost all aerial incursions over the past six months have occurred in the southwestern corner of Taiwans ADIZ and have followed three pathsheading in a southeasterly direction towards the Bashi Channel, heading in that direction and turning northeast along the periphery of the east side of Taiwans ADIZ, and winding around Taiwans Dongsha Island, which lies almost 450 kilometres south of Taiwan.

Incursions near Dongsha Island, also known as Pratas Island, have been performed most regularly by Shaanxi KJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft, which have surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. H-6 bombers have also flown by the island but were almost certainly used in a reconnaissance role. Specialist reconnaissance aircraft; electronic intelligence-gathering aircraft and electronic warfare aircraft (and, earlier in the year, uncrewed surveillance drones) have also flown close to the island. While ASW sweeps have usually been unescorted, these flights have often coincided with fighter sorties. The latter have invariably cut between, or come close to cutting between, Taiwan and Dongsha Island.

Much has been written about the possibility that China could seize Dongsha Island, which is uninhabited except for a small military garrison. Fighter incursions may appear menacing, but surveillance and reconnaissance sweeps are more worrying, because they can produce actionable intelligence for an invasion. Yet the emergence of fighters between Taiwan and Dongsha are also significant. If China wants to secure a maritime route through to the Bashi Channel, it would want to cut off or control the island, which lies close to the route it is likely to prefer. It would also want to shrink or claim for itself the southern section of Taiwans ADIZ so that it controls the airspace above this route.

In the Greco-Persian Wars in the 5th century BC, the Persian king Darius famously demanded earth and watera euphemism for total subjugation. Yet it seems that the more immediate objective of Chinas incursions into Taiwans ADIZ has been seizing water as opposed to earth. This makes sense when we consider that the trigger for the early October wave of flights appears to have been US-led naval exercises in the western Pacific, as opposed to political developments inside Taiwan. It also makes sense when we consider that the southwest section of the ADIZ has been identified as one of the American militarys major areas of operation in the South China Sea.

This does not, however, mean that Taiwan is out of the woods. The first island chain constrains Chinas aspirations to use its navy to project power. And with Taiwan between the two break-out points that lead directly into the Pacificthe Bashi Channel and the Miyako Straitsome in Beijing fear that America could use Taiwan to keep China in check by promoting closer military cooperation. Such fears may have prompted previous incursions, such as the 12 June wave of 28 aircraft that followed soon after three US senators visited Taiwan, and the 12 April 12 wave of 25 aircraft, which occurred the day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken condemned Chinas increasingly aggressive actions. Blinken was not wrong to call China out, but criticisms need to remain grounded in the facts.

Western critiques accused of misstating the nature and immediacy of the threat China poses to Taiwan are increasingly viewed by Beijing as being in bad faith and aimed at cajoling Taiwans collusion in the agenda to constrain Chinas rise. The danger of reactive commentary is thus not only that it might misidentify the China threat, but that it could also serve to augment it.

Corey Lee Bell is a postdoctoral researcher in Taiwan. He has a PhD from Melbourne Universitys Asia Institute and is a former editor of Taiwan Insight.

This article appeared originally at The Strategist (ASPI).
British crime drama Happy Valley will return for a third and final season.

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The BBC said in a press release Tuesday that the BBC One series will start filming Season 3 in early 2022.

Sarah Lancashire will return as Sergeant Catherine Cawood, alongside Siobhan Finneran as Clare Cartright and James Norton as Tommy Lee Royce.

AMC Networks will co-produce, with Season 3 to stream in the U.S. on AMC+.

Season 3 will consist of six new episodes.

"When Catherine (Lancashire) discovers the remains of a gangland murder victim in a drained reservoir it sparks a chain of events that unwittingly leads her straight back to Tommy (Norton)," an official description reads.

Happy Valley writer and creator Sally Wainwright said she hopes Season 3 will be "the best season yet."

"I'm delighted to find myself back in the world of Catherine Cawood and her family and colleagues for the final installment of the Happy Valley trilogy. It's been wonderful to see the lasting impact this series has had on audiences all over the world," she said.

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Additional returning stars and new cast members have yet to be announced.
By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 10/26/2021



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

star Ryan Ignasiak has admitted it's going to take a Hail Mary for his marriage to Brett to work out at this point in the extreme experiment.With less than two weeks to go until "Decision Day," the five Season 13 couples traveled to a ranch retreat at Chappell Hill Lavender Farm in the country between Austin and Houston, TX.Ryan had been slowly distancing himself from Brett in their 40-plus days of marriage, and while he explained to cameras a spark was missing and he didn't feel an attraction or butterflies for his wife, Brett was still waiting to hear the truth from Ryan about how he really felt about her and their relationship.During Wednesday night's episode of : Unfiltered, host Jamie Otis -- who starred on Season 1 of and is still married to her match, Doug Hehner -- asked Ryan, "Do you feel like you and Brett are on different pages of your marriage?""I mean, absolutely," Ryan replied. "I think it's very clear to anybody seeing us from the outside looking in.""She was definitely way more into it leading up to this point, and I came on late feeling like, 'Okay, we still have a chance.'"Ryan was prepared to put more effort into his marriage once the retreat came around, but he confessed, "It's going to take a Hail Mary for it to work at this point.""I thought we were both committed to doing the things, and I, yeah, I didn't handle it well at all, honestly," he acknowledged.Ryan also watched back a Season 13 clip of Brett, Johnny Lam, Bao Huong Hoang, and himself discussing their sleeping arrangement at the fancy barn, which had six bedrooms."What are you comfortable with?" Johnny asks in clip, considering he wasn't looking forward to sharing a room with his wife Bao."I mean, we can stay in the same room, if Brett's okay with it," Ryan suggests, although he and Brett had been sleeping in different beds for probably weeks leading up to that point."I wasn't thinking that," Brett interjects, "to stay in the same room."Brett proceeds to tell the cameras Ryan can't just drop a bomb on her like that out of nowhere."I don't know what, 'I don't have problem sleeping in a room with Brett,' means. Do you want to have a sleepover? You want to sleep on the floor? I could sleep in the bed and we can chit-chat? We could've done that, but you have to say it," Brett complains.Jamie asked Ryan -- who had clearly not been fully open with Brett about his feelings -- what was going through his mind when Brett said she didn't want to share a bedroom with him."I had zero intentions of her being okay with sharing a bed. That was never what I meant, and again, I should have verbalized that," Ryan explained."I truly thought that her and I were in a better place, even on a friend-level, as Johnny and Bao were."Ryan elaborated, "So I wanted to take the burden off of [Johnny and Bao] having to be put in that situation. I thought we were adult enough to share a room."'s latest episode showed Johnny and Ryan agreeing to share a bedroom, but then the men played one round of "Rock, Paper, Scissors" and it appeared Ryan lost and ended up sleeping on the couch as a result."But yeah, I didn't think that I would be sleeping on the couch for the entirety of the weekend," Ryan said with an uncomfortable laugh.expert, Dr. Viviana Coles, joined Ryan on Unfiltered and offered her perspective on spouses sleeping in different bedrooms."If it's for the sake of snoring issues and you need to be able to sleep well, I'm all for it," Viviana shared."But if it is just because you don't want to have the awkward 'together time' at the end of the night, well, then I feel like it's moving away from each other and it's a sign of much more. It's not just about sleeping in separate bedrooms."Before the retreat, Brett had noticed a sudden or abrupt change in Ryan's attitude and demeanor, and his sister had informed Brett that maybe a woman from his past had resurfaced and so Ryan was distracted -- a claim he later denied.Brett said she had also heard from someone else that Ryan just wanted to be friends with her.Ryan told Brett the news shouldn't have come as a surprise to her due to the fact his actions spoke volumes , but Brett needed verbal communication in order to feel like they understood each other.Brett felt she had shown Ryan her true self, and she complained to her girlfriends on the show that Ryan just needed to "take it or leave it." Brett even suggested that she felt devalued and disrespected by Ryan when venting her frustrations to the fellow brides.Brett told Ryan that he had broken her, but the couple agreed to continue working on things during their final relaxing day of the retreat -- and they appeared to head back to Houston optimistic and on the same page.In addition to Brett, Ryan, Johnny, and Bao, 's thirteenth season, which currently airs on Wednesday nights at 8PM ET/PT on Lifetime, also stars Myrla Feria and Gil Cuero, Michaela Clark and Zack Freeman , and Rachel Gordillo and Jose San Miguel.Interested in more news? Join our Married at First Sight Facebook Group or click here to view our newspage!And click here for more updates on former cast members and info on where they are now!
By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 10/25/2021



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

alum Katie Thurston has admitted she's "totally winging" her relationship with fiance Blake Moynes following their televised engagement.Katie recently insisted she's still engaged and happily dating Blake after the Canadian wildlife specialist popped the question during 's seventeenth-season finale, which aired this past summer.But Katie, 30, and Blake, 31, apparently have no plans to move in together any time soon, and they are currently navigating a challenging long-distance relationship from not just different states, but different countries."I'm, like, totally winging my life right now," San-Diego based Katie told Us Weekly of her excitement to reunite with the Toronto, Canada native.Katie conducted her interview while backstage at Whitney Cummings ' "Touch Me Tour" on Friday at the City National Grove of Anaheim, CA."I literally leave tomorrow in San Diego at, like, six in the morning. So I'm driving back home after [the comedy show] at some point," Katie revealed.Blake has been spending time in Africa rescuing rhinos, and Katie -- who originally competed for Matt James ' heart on The Bachelor's 25th season -- has clearly been keeping busy in the meantime."We're figuring it out," Katie said of her romance with Blake. "We don't know. This is very new to us still. I'm just focusing on myself, he's focusing on him, and if we work doing that, great."Although Blake could not physically attend Katie's Friday-night show, which marked the first time she's ever performed comedy in front of a live audience, he expressed his support for her on Instagram."The face you make when you realize your [fiancee] has bigger balls than you!" Blake wrote on Wednesday, October 20."Sh-t, I thought crashing a group date gave me them... I don't think I could ever even attempt stand up comedy. Super proud and excited for you @thekatiethurston !"Katie admitted to Us that she "wanted to bail a thousand times" on the comedy show but recognized it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that she couldn't pass up."I was surprised [over Blake's post]," Katie shared. "I mean for him to be so supportive publicly, it actually meant a lot. For him to be, like, 'You have such big balls.' No, it's p-ssy power, okay?"Katie added how she's most looking forward to a time when she and Blake can stop "traveling back and forth." Katie said she'd like to settle down with Blake "eventually."Katie told the magazine in August how she was totally shocked by Blake's marriage proposal but is so glad he chose to commit to her at the end of her season."It's hard to say the impact of that in the real world, [if he didn't propose], because you go through so much and you want to take this very seriously -- and a proposal and engagement is very serious," Katie explained at the time."I didn't come here to find a boyfriend. I can do that on a dating app," she added. "So it's hard to say if we would have survived just as a dating couple."Katie said her relationship with Blake strengthened once they promised each other forever."The fact that we're both committed to each other as future husband and wife, it just says a lot about our confidence in our relationship," Katie said.Shortly after the show wrapped on TV, Katie visited Blake's hometown in Toronto and then moved into a new apartment in San Diego in August.The former bank marketing manager and Blake also spent time together in New York City in September."I don't think people fully understand what it's like to date someone from another country and the rules behind that and the visas behind that," Katie said in a series of late-August videos posted to her Instagram Stories."I think right now Blake can only be here for 60 days before having to go back to Canada," Katie continued, seemingly referring to how a Tourist Visa works."So we really do have a lot we have to look into -- and we just haven't yet -- before we can plan really anything else."Once Blake left for Africa to continue his endangered-animal conservation efforts, Katie reportedly wrote on Instagram earlier this month, "It can feel lonely moving to a new state... I've had trouble sleeping lately... I'm still trying to navigate this new life and city while seeking normalcy."Katie and Blake have told multiple press outlets they are in no rush to wed and intend to travel together and learn more about each other's backgrounds, interests, hobbies and hometowns before deciding on an "anchor spot," or city in which to put down roots as a couple.Interested in more The Bachelor news? Join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
Netflix is giving a glimpse of the new film The Unforgivable.

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The streaming service shared a trailer for the drama Tuesday featuring Sandra Bullock as Ruth Slater, a woman released from prison after serving a 20-year sentence for a violent crime.

The preview shows Ruth (Bullock) seek redemption as she searches for her younger sister, Katie. Ruth struggles with "a society that refuses to forgive her past" and "severe judgment from the place she once called home."

Viola Davis, Vincent D'Onofrio, Rob Morgan and Jon Bernthal co-star.

The Unforgivable is based on the British miniseries Unforgiven. The film is written by Peter Craig, Hillary Seitz and Courtenay Miles and directed by Nora Fingscheidt.

In addition to starring, Bullock produced the film with Graham King (The Departed) and Veronica Ferres.

The Unforgivable will open in theaters Nov. 24 and start streaming Dec. 10 on Netflix. The movie is Bullock's first since the popular Netflix film Bird Box, released in 2018.
44, of Thompsonville, died Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021. A visitation will be held noon to 1 p.m., Monday, Nov. 22, 2021 at Life Story Funeral Home. Graveside Services will be held 2 p.m. at Champion Hill Cemetery, Honor. Please visit www.lifestorytc.com to share your thoughts and more. The fami
In 2020, Florida broke the Bulldogs three-year winning streak against the Gators. In doing so, they also earned the rights to an artifact that had previously been displayed in the Tate Student Center: the Okefenokee Oar.
Though June is the official national Pride month in celebration of LGBTQ+ people as it was the month of the historic Stonewall riots, many pride-centered events in Athens take place in the month of November to allow the university community to participate.
Unfortunately for Warnock, simply doing a great job in the Senate will not be enough to win reelection.
Greenville, NC (27833)

Today

Mainly sunny to start, then a few afternoon clouds. High 59F. Winds NE at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low 38F. Winds light and variable.
An 82-year-old Black woman who became a civil rights pioneer when she was arrested for refusing to move to the back of an Alabama bus in 1955 wants to end the case once and for all
Todays editorial is from The Wall Street Journal. The views expressed are not necessarily those of this newspaper.
Amid fallout from the Facebook Papers showing its failure to address the harms its social network has created around the world, Facebook on Monday reported higher profit for the latest quarter, buoyed by strong advertising revenue
1st, 2nd and 3rd grade students from Windham Elementary School get a surprise visit from the plow truck they named as part of the Vermont Agency of Transportation's Name a Plow program on Wednesday, 11/17/21.
In this file photo from March, 2021, Gov. Phil Scott addresses reporters during an update on Vermonts response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Complaints about a Nazi flag outside this Townshend home landed the matter before the Select Board recently, and it has since issued a statement against symbols of hate.
STAMFORD  The road to a new commuter garage in Stamford has been far from smooth, but on Monday morning, Connecticut officials celebrated finally moving forward on the perennially postponed project.

Five years after a deal to reimagine the Stamford Transportation Center and its dilapidated state garage fell apart, Gov. Ned Lamont, Transportation Commissioner Joseph Giulietti and a bevy of elected officials gathered to showcase one of the Northeasts busiest train stations into the 21st century by building a new commuter garage.

Parking should not be a hassle, Lamont said from a podium just across the street from the garage-in-progress while flanked by Stamford Mayor David Martin, U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, D-Conn., and Stamfords delegation to the state legislature. Parking should be something that's easy, affordable, with a lot of capacity. That's what we're doing right here.

Engineering crews have already broken ground on the 928-spot garage, a project that will cost the state $81.7 million, according to Giulietti. The entire edifice, which will feature a bridge that directly connects with one of the train platforms through an enclosed pedestrian way, is scheduled for completion in summer 2023.

The multi-million dollar car depot will encompass only a fraction of what the state originally planned to replace in 2013. The Department of Transportation that year struck a deal with a private developer to create a $500 million office, housing, retail and hotel complex beside the train station and move commuter parking a quarter-mile away. That proposal drew ire from commuters, who wanted the state to rebuild the existing garage instead.

The new building on Washington Boulevard will replace the existing state garage on Station Place, a 36-year-old structure plagued by problems since the beginning. The state plans to demolish the more structurally deficient half of the garage once the new parking facility is completed.

This is prime real estate, Giulietti said of the parcel. We're looking to go and attract investors so that we can offset some of our costs for going into an operation by maybe putting in something there that will generate funds for the system.

Even during the pandemic, the Stamford Transportation Center has remained one of the most frequented locations in the Metro-North railroad system. Data from the system shows that more than 8.4 million people rode Metro-North trains from the Stamford Transportation Center in 2016, making it the second-busiest station behind Grand Central Terminal in New York City.

After seeing a 95 percent reduction in ridership during the height of the COVID-19 crisis, the passenger count has since bounced back and hovers at around 50 percent of pre-pandemic levels, Metro-North President Catherine Rinaldi said at the ceremony. Almost two years after the virus first took hold, 175 trains a day stop at Stamford station. Weekend train service is completely back to normal, and on the weekdays 82 percent of the usual trains visit the stop, she said.

Though creating a better place for cars is the most obvious component of the garage redesign, the future of multi-modal transportation in Stamford was also front and center during the celebration.

Though future plans for the transportation center itself are still incomplete, the state plans to repave and redesign all the roads surrounding the garage and the train station, according to Giulietti. The paving would create dedicated feeder paths for the buses, taxi cabs and rideshares that frequent the station.

On top of that, he said, the new garage will bring pedestrian improvements to the streets to facilitate both walking and biking. The project will also connect nearby pedestrians to the planned Mill River Greenway, the project that will connect Stamford from the South End to Mill River Park.

veronica.delvalle@hearstmediact.com
HUIXTLA, Mexico (AP)  After three days of walking along a scorching highway in southern Mexico, a couple thousand migrants decided to rest here Tuesday, receive medical attention for badly blistered feet, wash clothing in the river and doze in any shade they could find.

Nitza Maldonado and Omar Rodriguez sprawled on the sidewalk beside a local church with their 6-year-old son. The Honduran family had paid a smuggler $12,000 last year to get to the United States, but they were nabbed in Texas and deported.

Due to the pandemic, they had lost their jobs there  she as an assistant at a law firm and he as a worker in a laundry. Back in Honduras, they faced unemployment and debts from their failed attempt to migrate so they decided to leave again on their own.

Sleeping on the ground and sometimes eating only one meal a day, they decided the risks of rough handling or deportation by Mexican authorities were worth joining the large group effort to walk north.

You have to migrate because in our country theres a lot of unemployment, theres no education, Maldonado said. Thats why this is happening to us.

It has been years since Mexican authorities allowed such a large group of migrants to walk out of the southern state of Chiapas. Recent smaller attempts were dissolved, sometimes with excessive force, by National Guard troops and immigration agents after the migrants tired.

On Tuesday, there was still no visible move to break up the group. Including hundreds of children, the group has been moving slowly, covering just 25 miles (41 kilometers) in three days.

Migrants took advantage of the pause to charge phones, dry out from Monday's rain and cool off in the river.

Dayana Flores, 17, and her 20-year-old husband Kevin Ortiz, left Honduras four months ago when their baby was only 20 days old. Since then theyve been in the southern Mexican city of Tapachula going regularly to Mexicos asylum office, lining up before dawn as they attempted to get legal status, but nothing seemed to advance.

Better to run the risk, maybe one can make it (to the U.S.), than to be there caged without work, without a place to work, without food, without anything, Flores said.

Others spoke of similar frustration with the slow pace of Mexicos asylum office.

Rosibel Maldonado said she waited the 45 working days that the agency said it would take to process her asylum application, but never heard anything, so she left.

Not all said they were trying to make it to the U.S. Mexico has seen the number of asylum applications it receives skyrocket in recent years. Through September, Mexico had received 90,000 applications, more than two-thirds of them in the Tapachula office.

While the government has tried to contain migrants to southern Mexico, far from the U.S. border, many seek to reach northern cities where there are far more employment opportunities than in the economically depressed south.

Carlos Fuentes was traveling with his wife and six children. They want to make it to the northern city of Monterrey.

Fuentes spent six years in the U.S. before being deported a decade ago. He said gang members tried to recruit his kids  the boys to sell drugs, the girls as girlfriends  so they had to leave.

Were out of money and so we decided to come with the caravan and thank God they havent detained us, he said.
WINSTED - Kenneth J. Fracasso, a former mayor of Winsted and a lifelong resident who cared about the city, has died.

He was 64.

Fracasso, in addition to being a former mayor of Winsted, was a lieutenant of Aerial Ladder (Tower) Company one. He served as a board member of both St. Anthony School and St. Joseph Church, and was a member of the Winsted Elks, according to his obituary.

Mayor Candy Perez said Fracasso contributed to his town in big and small ways.

He really cared about Winsted, she said.

He cared greatly about the community. He helped St. Joseph Church when they opened the Franciscan Center, the mayor said. He also employed people in the area. He definitely had his impact on the community.

Steve Sedlak, a longtime member of the Board of Selectmen, said his father, John Sedlak, was a dear friend of Fracasso.

If my father were alive, hed say good things about Ken, he said. They were good friends. Ken always spoke highly of my dad.

Despite being on different sides of the political aisle, Ken and I always found a way to agree to disagree, without being disagreeable, Sedlak said. I always admired that about him. And he didnt seek the limelight at all. That was to be admired.

A graduate of The Gilbert School class of 1975, Fracasso started his own company in the 1980s. K.J. Fracasso Industries grew into a thriving regional operation throughout New England and beyond, according to the family.

He had his family and a lot of friends, and with his business dealings he knew a lot of people, Perez said. He was always helping people, but nobody knew that he did.

A lot of us have stories about people like that; in the end, he did things like that because he cared; for the same reasons we all get involved in our town and our community, she said.

Fracasso is survived by his wife, Susan (Welz), and their children, Sara and Michael of Winsted, and Jared Romaniello (Chelsea) of Vancouver, Wash., and grandchildren, Gianni and Mila Romaniello. Also, three sisters, Kim McLaughlin, Lorie (Rodd) Ruland, Kara (David) Normand, a brother, Steven (Martha) Fracasso, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Kathleen (Inger) Fracasso.

A ceremony of Christian Burial will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 28 at St Joseph Church, with interment to follow in Winchester Cemetery, according to his obituary. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St Josephs Church. Visit an online guestbook at maloneyfuneral.com.
East Hartford Police / Contributed

EAST HARTFORD  A Hartford man died after he was hit by a bus Tuesday morning on Burnham Street, police officials said.

Just before 7 a.m., first responders were sent to the area of Burnham Street and Delores Drive for a man possibly hit by a passing mini-bus, according to East Hartford Police Lt. Joshua Litwin. He said the call came in from a passerby who saw a person on the ground for an unknown reason.
Samsungs de-facto boss Lee Jae-yong, who was released from prison in August, was convicted and fined for illegally using the anaesthetic drug propofol on Tuesday. As per a BBC report, the embattled multi-billionaire took the drug, commonly used as an anaesthetic, dozens of times in recent years even though the South Korean law states the recipients of the controlled drug can be prosecuted along with the ones who administer it.

Lee was released on parole in August after spending 20 months in jail after being convicted on charges of bribery and embezzlement. In the latest trial, the prosecutors reportedly said that the Samsung vice-chairman used propofol multiple times between 2015 and 2020 under the guise of skin treatment.

However, his lawyer has claimed that the businessman used the anaesthetic to treat psychological stress linked to the hospitalisation of his father, Lee Kun-hee and the ongoing legal proceedings. Jae-yong has pleaded guilty to all charges.

The South Korean court fined him 70 million won ($59,000, Rs 44.32 lakh). Since propofol is less likely to be misused than other controlled substances, the offenders mostly receive fines and not jail terms. It is pertinent to note that the sedative is used for patients undergoing surgery but sometimes, is known to have been used recreationally.

Samsung heir's prison sentence

The Samsung Electronics vice chairman was previously sentenced to 2.5 years in prison by the Seoul High Court for his involvement in a 2016 corruption scandal that had triggered massive protests and ousted the then president of South Korea, Park Geun-hye. However, Lee was released early in August this year with the presidential office saying that under Lees leadership, Samsung would help the nation produce semiconductors and vaccines.

Subsequently, Samsung pledged to invest 240 trillion won ($206 billion) over a period of three years in fields such as chips and biopharmaceuticals. Since then, Lee has reportedly kept a low profile.

(Image: AP/Unsplash)
In a tragic incident on a movie set sending shockwaves across the film industry, actor Alec Baldwin misfired a prop gun killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza on October 21. As the heartbreaking news rattled netizens, many could not help but recall a similar incident on the sets of The Crow in 1993 where actor Brandon Lee met a similar fate at the age of 28. Following the Rust tragedy, his family spoke out about the incident strongly condemning fatal accidents on sets.

The incident also reopened old wounds for his fiancee Eliza Hutton who has now broken her silence. The duo was reportedly set to marry after the filming of The Crow.

Eliza Hutton on 'Rust' tragedy

During an interview with People magazine, Eliza Hutton weighed in on the tragedy as she called it 'avoidable tragedy'. She stated that she was 'shattered' by the shock of losing the love of her life Brandon Lee 'so senselessly'. She condoled the unfortunate demise of Halyna Hutchins and said that her 'heart aches again' while thinking about her husband and son and everyone affected by the 'unavoidable tragedy'.

She also asserted that reforms are the need of the hour considering the history of such accidents. She stated, "I urge those in positions to make a change to consider alternatives to real guns on sets," as quoted by the magazine. Earlier, Brandon Lee's sister Sharon Lee took to Twitter to address the tragedy as she wrote, "Our hearts go out to the family of Halyna Hutchins and to Joel Souza and all involved in the incident on Rust. No one should ever be killed by a gun on a film set. Period."

Brandon Lee, The Crow. Released 27 years ago. pic.twitter.com/lAtjGIuwvH  Brandon Bruce Lee (@brandonblee) May 11, 2021

More on Brandon Lee's death

Legendary Martial artist Bruce Lee's son was filming for Alex Proyas's fantasy action film The Crow in 1993 in North Carolina. He shot with a .44-caliber slug from a prop gun by an actor which was believed to have been loaded with blanks. The scene involved Brandon walking into his apartment to discover his fiancee being beaten and raped after which the thug shoots a Smith & Wesson Model 629 .44 Magnum revolver at him. Brandon was struck in the abdomen after which he underwent six hours of emergency surgery. He ultimately succumbed to his injuries in Wilmington, North Carolina at the age of 28.

(Image: @movieverse/Instagram)
James Michael Tyler recently passed away at the age of 59 after battling prostate cancer while the fans mourn the loss of the iconic Friends' actor.

Tyler essayed the role of Gunther in the sitcom, Friends, the character that worked at the popular coffee house, Central Perk. It is a lesser-known fact about James Michael Tyler aka Gunther that he worked at a coffee house in real life.

Lesser-Known Facts about 'Gunther' James Michael Tyler

As James Michael Tyler's performance in the role of Gunther in Friends, was highly celebrated over the years, the actor once opened up to Digital Spy and revealed an interesting fact from the show.

Tyler landed Gunther role on Friends due to THIS reason

The actor stated how he landed in the role of Gunther because he knew how to operate an espresso machine. "I honestly always thought my Masters in fine arts would get me further in the acting world than knowing how to work an espresso machine. That was a happy accident and I'm very, very grateful to have had that skill."

James Micheal Tyler worked as barista while appearing on show

Tyler also revealed how he was working as a barista at The Bourgeois Pig in Hollywood, when he was cast as Gunther and added that he kept working at the place for numerous years while working on the show. According to the reports by BuzzFeed News via People, he revealed that he never knew that the makers of the show would bring him back to the show so he kept working at the coffee shop for four years. James Michael Tyler also revealed how he decided to quit the job when his character began appearing on the show often. "I loved it for the social aspect  it was like my way to see everybody in the neighbourhood  but I'm like, I really should give these shifts up. Because it just didn't seem right," he added.

Though Tyler was cast as Gunther because he knew how to operate an espresso machine, he revealed that he never had to make a beverage on set. "The espresso machine wasn't plugged in because they can be kind of loud. But that was a real antique coffee machine. I never actually made one coffee!" he stated.

(Image: AP)
In a major update to the Poonch encounter, three youth were detained while travelling to Saudi Arabia via Nepal. The security forces have recovered traces of clothes and other belongings of terrorists hiding in the Poonch region. The encounter steps to 16th day, so far the longest anti-terror operations conducted in recent times.

Earlier on October 24, three security personnel were injured during the encounter. While LeT terrorist Zia Mustafa has been eliminated during the shootout between the security forces and terrorists when jailed Mustafa was taken to a terrorist hideout area in Bhata Durian for identification. The LeT terrorist under investigation in connection to the ongoing operation where 3 army jawans and a JCO were martyred. According to the Republic Media Network report, Mustafa originally hailed from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and came to India about 15 years back via the Surankote border.

In another update, on October 17, according to sources, police received information from intelligence sources that two locals residing near the encounter region have been providing logistic support to the terrorists. One of the detained is a woman who also provided food to the terrorists. Sources suggest that terrorists were residing in the area for the past 2-3 months which wouldn't have been possible without the help of locals. The investigation is underway. Also, on October 21, a woman was arrested over suspicions of providing help to the terrorists hiding in the region.

Poonch encounter

On October 11, an encounter was launched by security forces during a search operation in the Poonch district forest region. The anti-terror operation was initiated as inputs regarding terrorist infiltration in the Dera ki Gali (DKG) area of the district was received by the security forces. Earlier, the encounter claimed the lives of a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) Jaswinder Singh and four other Indian Army soldiers - Naik Mandeep Singh, Sepoys Gajjan Singh, Saraj Singh and Vaisakh H. The bodies of the five soldiers were sent to their respective hometowns on Wednesday - Jaswinder Singh, Mandeep Singh, and Gajjan Singh to their Punjab hometowns, Saraj Singh to Uttar Pradesh and Vaisakh H to Kerala.

(Image: PTI)
In a significant development, India and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism and defence to address common threats and security issues arising from the situation in Afghanistan since the Taliban's conquest on August 15, 2021. During the first strategic dialogue between the Security Council of Kyrgyzstan, Lieutenant General Marat Imankulov and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, the two sides welcomed intentions to enhance bilateral security cooperation between competent authorities.

While converging views on Afghanistan, the two sides 'held a discussion on threats and challenges facing both countries as well as the regional security environment, with special reference to Afghanistan', ANI reported.

India-Kyrgyzstan Strategic Dialogue

Lieutenant General Marat Imankulov, during his maiden bilateral strategic visit to the country, met with NSA Doval and vouched to address common issues spewing from the Afghanistan crisis and acknowledged similarity of views in terms of counter-terrorism, combatting radicalisation, narcotics control and defence cooperation. The dialogue holds relevance in view of the country's endeavour to step up cooperation with the Central Asian countries on regional security, especially since August 15, 2021.

The strategic dialogue with Kyrgyzstan was conducted days ahead of India hosting a meeting of National Security Advisors (NSAs) of countries in the region, including Pakistan and China, to deliberate on the situation in Afghanistan. Marking the first meeting to be convened by India since the Taliban took over the capital of Kabul, the meet will be attended by dignitaries of Iran, Russia, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Seemingly in no rush to recognise the current dispensation in Kabul, the country has not invited the Taliban Cabinet to the meeting of National Security Advisors.

India's effort to deepen bilateral ties with Central Asian Countries

On October 10, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived in Kyrgyzstan, making his first visit to the Central Asian country as the EAM. In addition to meeting with President Sadyr Japarov, he held bilateral talks with his Kyrgyz counterpart Ruslan Kazakbaev, EAM Jaishankar stated that India had promised to fund Kyrgyzstan's development projects with a USD 200 million Line of Credit. Marking EAM Jaishankar three-nation visit as a continuation of the country's increasing engagement with the nation's 'extended neighbourhood', he further learnt developments in Afghanistan and the aftermath in Kazakhstan and Armenia as well.

(Image: ANI)
On Tuesday, October 26, President Ram Nath Kovind accepted the credentials from ambassadors of four nations and expressed their success in extending bilateral ties among India and their respective nations. President Kovind acknowledged their deployment as Ambassadors in India by accepting the credentials of Ambassadors of Luxembourg, Slovenia, Israel and Egypt.

President Kovind accepts credentials of ambassadors from four nations

After the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, this was the first such event that was held in the physical mode after the halt of almost two years. Those who presented their credentials were: Peggy Frantzen, Ambassador of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg; Mateja Vodeb Ghosh, Ambassador of the Republic of Slovenia; Naor Gilon, Ambassador of Israel; Wael Mohamed Awad Hamed, Ambassador of the Arab Republic of Egypt, office of President informed in a press statement.

Following the presentation of credentials, the President met individually with each of the four Ambassadors. The President later thanked the envoys on their appointment and wished them well in their efforts to deepen bilateral ties, as well as the advancement and prosperity of the friendly people.

President Kovind also emphasized maintaining India's deep ties with the countries, as well as the country's multifaceted connection with them. The President also sent his personal greetings to the leaders of the respective countries through the Ambassadors. At the event, the Ambassadors reaffirmed their resolve to work closely together to enhance their ties with India.

However, apart from this, in another event, President Ram Nath Kovind spoke at the Bihar Legislative Assembly's centennial celebrations in Patna on Thursday, October 21. He spoke that he is 'proud' of Bihar being the "land of the world's first democracy". On the occasion, he laid the foundation stone for Shatabdi Smriti Stambh and planted a Mahabodhi Tree sapling at the Bihar Legislative Assembly grounds. The President, speaking on the occasion, remarked that the centennial year of the Bihar Legislative Assembly is a celebration of democracy.

The President, commenting about Bihar's contribution to democracy, stated that he is glad that Bihar was the birthplace of democracy. The early republics of the world learned knowledge and compassion from Lord Buddha.

With inputs from ANI

Image: Twitter
India's Permanent Representative to United Nations TS Tirumurti has asserted that Sustainable Development Goals(SDGs) can be implemented through the efforts of "whole society". Tirumurti added that the society includes government, private sector, universities and civil society. Speaking at an event organised by MOP Vaishnav College for Women in Chennai as part of the UN Day Intercollegiate Fest 2021 on Monday, 24 October, Tirumurti remembered the commencement of the building block of the SDG at the Rio+20 Conference in 2012.

Tirumurti recalls initiation of SDGs

Addressing an event organised by MOP Vaishnav College for Women, Tirumurti said that the UN Member States did not negotiate "Millenium Development Goals" and the UN Secretary-General had given them to the countries for implementation. He stated that the developed countries were interested in implementing SDGs in Rio+20 in 2012. Furthermore, he revealed that India, Brazil and other countries, insisted on having the negotiations by all Member States in Rio+20 Conference. He added that all the Member States agreed to have negotiations.

"The MDGs - Millenium Development Goals - were not negotiated by the UN Member States but merely handed down by UN Secretary-General for countries to implement. In Rio+20 in 2012, developed countries were interested in doing the same thing for SDGs as well, which is to have a non negotiated process," ANI quoted TS Tirumurti as saying. "At Rio+20 Conference, primarily due to efforts of countries like India, Brazil and others, who insisted on these negotiations being done in the UN by all Member States, this Member States driven process was finally agreed to. Now SDGs truly belong to all Member States of the UN and we have a joint stake in implementing them," Tirumurti added.

Tirumurti underlined that the SDGs were developed based on maintaining the balance between three pillars, "environment, social and economic pillars." Speaking on achieving Agenda 2030 in the Decade of Action, Tirumurti highlighted that the pandemic has caused humanitarian and economic crises since the Second World War, particularly for vulnerable countries. Speaking on India's SDG initiatives, India's Permanent Representative to UN TS Tirumurti said that the programmes are aimed at access to "clean cooking fuels" to households, "improving sanitation" and added that over "420 million bank accounts for the unbanked" have been given to people. Furthermore, he informed that India has announced "food, security, cash transfers" to reduce the suffering of the people.

Speaking at an event, Tirumurti pointed out that India is the only country among the G20, which is on its way to achieving the Paris Agreement target of 2030. Moreover, India has been making efforts to make the country a "Green Hydrogen Hub". He added that India is in the Security Council for a tenure of two years and has been playing a "constructive bridging role."

"We just had our Presidency in August where we had high-level events on maritime security, UN peacekeeping and counter-terrorism. We will continue to play a role in supporting developing countries and be their voice in UNSC," ANI quoted TS Tirumurti as saying.

Image: PTI

(With inputs from ANI)
In a major discovery, the NASA Chandra X-ray Observatory telescope has found evidence for a possible planet outside of the Milky Way galaxy. The "exoplanet" is said to be located in the Whirlpool Galaxy commonly called M51, which is some 28 million light-years away from other "planet candidates" identified by scientists in recent times, NASA said in a statement. There have been discoveries of over 4,000 exoplanets most of which are in the Milky Way galaxy about 3,000 light-years away from Earth.

"Signs of a planet transiting a star outside of the Milky Way galaxy may have been detected for the first time. This intriguing result, using NASAs Chandra X-ray Observatory, opens up a new window to search for exoplanets at greater distances than ever before," NASA said on Monday. This planet candidate was identified with NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory that detected a temporary dimming in X-rays in a binary system, where a Sun-like star is in orbit around a neutron star or black hole. "The authors interpret this dimming as being a planet passing in front of the neutron star or black hole," Chandra Observatory said in a statement.

Chandra scientists have found the first possible planet candidate outside of our galaxy! Located about 28 million light years from Earth in galaxy M51, it's thousands of times farther away than all the other exoplanets detected in our Milky Way. More: https://t.co/LLnJAzfDZA pic.twitter.com/oa3u4GL3Av  Chandra Observatory (@chandraxray) October 25, 2021

Whole new arena for finding other worlds

Looking for the dimming of a star's light as something passes in front of it is called the transit technique, Chandra Observatory said. "For years, scientists have discovered exoplanets using transits with optical light telescopes, which detect the range of light humans can see with their eyes and more. This includes both ground-based telescopes and space-based ones like NASA's Kepler mission," it added. These optical light transit detections require very high levels of sensitivity because the planet is much smaller than the star it passes in front of, and, therefore, only a tiny fraction of the light is blocked.

We are trying to open up a whole new arena for finding other worlds by searching for planet candidates at X-ray wavelengths, a strategy that makes it possible to discover them in other galaxies, said Rosanne Di Stefano of the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) in Cambridge, Massachusetts, who led the study, which was published today in Nature Astronomy.

As per data received by the scientists, it might take decades to determine the size of the planet candidate due to its transit patterns. Unfortunately to confirm that were seeing a planet we would likely have to wait decades to see another transit, said co-author Nia Imara of the University of California at Santa Cruz. And because of the uncertainties about how long it takes to orbit, we wouldn't know exactly when to look," she added.

Image: @ChandraXRay_Twitter
The United States, the United Kingdom and Norway have sternly condemned the military coup that is underway in Sudan. In a joint statement. The Troika slammed the dissolution of the Abdallah Hamdok-led civilian government and vowed to support a democratically-elected civilian government, Sputnik reported. The trio also called on the Sudanese security forces to immediately release all unlawful detainees during the takeover.

Calling for a "democratic Sudan with the fully legitimate civilian government," the UK, US and Norway rejected the military coup. "The Troika will continue to support those working for a democratic Sudan...we reject this attempt to detail the transition towards democratic elections and call for the immediate restoration of the civil-led government on the basis of Constitutional Declaration and other foundational documents for transition," Sputnik reported quoting the statement. They also asked the military coup leaders to acknowledge peaceful protests as freedom of expression.

Sudan faces newer lows

At least three pro-democracy protestors have been killed in skirmishes with the army, Sudan Doctors Central Committee announced on Facebook. At least 80 people have been injured in the same. Meanwhile, that in confronting the coup, doctors had withdrawn from all hospitals in Sudan except for emergency departments and attended to critical cases. "The military forces raided the Bloodbank building and prevented employees from carrying out their duties," the committee said in a statement.

The situation in Sudan has faced new lows after five senior cabinet ministers were arrested and Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and his wife were sent into house arrest on Monday. As per BBC, their locations are unknown. Video footage from Sudan showed pro-military demonstrators on streets echoing demands of the joint-military Sovereign Council leader General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Sudanese Police and pro-military protestors demanding transfer of power to the military clashed in the capital city of Khartoum when police fired tear gas to disperse the crowd.

It is to be noted that amid the ongoing protests, General Burhan also asserted that dissolving the Abdalla Hamdok government could "resolve the political crisis," a suggestion rejected by many. Internet and power outages have remained persistent since fresh protests erupted last week.

Image: @AbdallaHamdok_Twitter

(With inputs from ANI)
Amid a recent surge in locally transmitted COVID-19 cases, the Chinese border cities of Lanzhou and Ejin Banner in Gansu Province have been placed under lockdown on Monday, according to a report by Global Times. On Sunday, October 24, health officials in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region confirmed 13 new local COVID-19 cases, with 12 of them coming from the city of Ejin Banner.

With this, the total number of cases in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region has risen to 62. The COVID-19 patients have been admitted to designated hospitals, whereas, their close contacts have been put into quarantine, reported the outlet. To avoid the spread of the Coronavirus infection, authorities also issued an emergency notice directing residents and tourists in the city to stay home. Those found in violation of the rule would face harsh penalties under the law, according to the notice.

Cases reported in China

The city administration also declared that tourists would receive free food delivery and medical supplies. The city of Lanzhou, a northwestern city of four million, has been placed under lockdown. Six cases have been reported in Lanzhou, Gansu Province's capital, according to Global Times. The new cases have been detected in roughly a third of the country's provinces and regions, with Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Ningxia, Guizhou, and Beijing being the most at-risk, reported news agency ANI. The new rules follow tight stay-at-home orders issued to tens of thousands of people in northern China, who already have limited access to tourist sites and are instructed not to leave the city unless absolutely essential.

It should be mentioned here that the country has also decided to vaccinate children as young as three years old. Chinese authorities maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards outbreaks, and at least 76% population has been fully inoculated in the country, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP). In the last few days, local city and provincial governments in at least five provinces have issued letters requiring children aged 3 to 11 years to get vaccinated.

The vaccine effort is being expanded as sections of China impose tighter restrictions in an attempt to contain recent outbreaks. The government is particularly concerned about tourists spreading the more contagious delta variant and having largely vaccinated people in the time ahead of the upcoming Winter Olympics in February 2022, reported AP.

Image: AP/ Fusion Medical Animation/Unsplash
Israel has refrained from signing a United Nations Joint Statement that pointed out Chinas treatment of the Uighurs Muslims- an apparent move to placate the communist state. As many as 43 countries including major western powers-Japan, Canada, Germany, American and Britain signed the statement which called on CCP to ensure full respect to the law in its northwestern Xinjiang region. Citing credible reports, they accused Bejing of detaining over a million people at several political re-education camps" in Xinjiang Uighur Autonomous Region.

"We have seen an increasing number of reports of widespread and systematic human rights violations, including reports documenting torture or cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment, forced sterilization, sexual and gender-based violence, and forced separation of children," the countries said.

Speaking to the Times of Israel, one top official said that the zionists had received a draft resolution beforehand but decided against supporting the initiative. Stopping short of spilling details, the anonymous official reasoned that Israel has other interest that it has to balance other than the Xinjian issue. Notably, Israel itself has been accused of disrespecting "human rights and freedom in the beleaguered Gaza strip.

Meanwhile, the Defence Department told reporters that Israel had various other ways to condemn Chinas human rights abuses. Addressing a press conference, Benny Gantz said, "Israel expresses its concerns about the Uighurs in various diplomatic tracks. One example of this was our signing onto the Canadian statement [on the Uighurs] in June at the Human Rights Council. Our position on the issue has not changed."

China calls it an 'unfounded' accusation

In the aftermath of the statement, the Peoples Republic of China has called out 43 countries. In a video message, Chinese Envoy to UN Zhang Jun said that the west was 'politicizing' Xingjian and trying to blot the communist countrys image. ''It is an attempt to smear Chinas human rights,' he added. Calling the accusations totally unfounded, Jun further accused the US and its allies of using the issue to obstruct Chinas development. ''Chinas progress is unstoppable,'' the Chinese representative said highlighting recent developments in the country. In his brief but clear message to the world, Jun talked at length about a recently held conference that featured Uyghur representatives narrating 'real' stories at Xinjiangs vocational education and training centres.

Image: AP


Climate change might soon stop the migration of birds from Europe to Africa during the winters in the coming years, suggests a new study published in the journal Global Change Biology. A team of researchers from England's Durham University found that the birds are already spending two extra months in Europe, delaying the natural period of migration during the winters.

As per the experts, the reason for this change is due to the better survivability of the migratory birds in Europe.

Migration might stop completely suggests study

Since the migratory birds, like the nightingale and willow warblers are better able to survive in their breeding grounds in Europe, ornithologists say that they might not need to migrate at all in the future. A report by Daily Mail revealed that this prediction was presented after analysing data of over 50 years of trans-Saharan migratory bird sightings spanning from Gibraltar to The Gambia.

This impact caused on the nightingales and willow warblers, which are among Europe's most common migratory birds, are likely to change the dynamics of migration that is undertaken by 4,000 bird species every year. This number makes nearly 40% of the world's total birds who undergo regular migrations.

"The changes in migratory habits we are already seeing could lead to longer breeding seasons for these species, as well as knock-on effects on other species  both here in the UK and in the traditional winter migration destinations", said author Kieran Lawrence as per Daily Mail.

Observations by the experts

The results derived from the local bird sightings include data recorded by ornithologists in Gibraltar between 19912018 and from The Gambia between 19642019. Upon observation, the experts noted that many winter migratory birds were arriving at their destinations in the south later than usual but left for the north much earlier.

Stephen Willis, lead author and Durham University bioscientist said that they are now aiming to apply a new model through which they will simulate the complex migrations, Daily Mail reported. This newly reported problem arising due to climate change is just a new addition to a long list that recently included shape-shifting in birds and animals due to the same.

Image: Unsplash
A week after Russia held a meeting for Afghanistan, Iran would also hold a similar meeting on October 27, Wednesday. The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran said that the meeting would be held in Tehran. According to the statement released by the Embassy, the main agenda of the meeting would be forming an inclusive government in Afghanistan and addressing some of the key issues such as terrorism, and illicit drugs trafficking. Further, the statement confirmed that the meeting would be attended by Afghanistan's immediate neighbouring countries like Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, China and Russia.

It said that the meeting would be focused on establishing peace and stability and addressing the pain and agony of the people living in the war-torn region. "Foreign ministers of the neighbouring countries including China, Pakistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan, together with Russia upon Iran's invitation will gather in Tehran to discuss how the surrounding nations of Afghanistan can contribute to the peace, security and development of this country in particular through the formation of an inclusive government with the active participation of all ethnic groups in the new situation," read a statement by Iran Embassy in New Delhi.

"This meeting will take place in continuation and as the second round of the discussions which was virtually hosted by Pakistan on September 8th, 2021," added the statement.

Countries would pressurise Taliban to provide basic human rights

Further, it said that Tehran believes that a stable, secured, developed and sustainable economy of Afghanistan would help the neighbouring countries in ensuring their interests. The statement said that the meeting would also focus on the humanitarian crisis and the ongoing aid provided by several international communities. "The people of Afghanistan should have the right to freedom and other basic human rights and it is the Afghan people who could determine their own future and destiny. The independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity of Afghanistan should also be maintained and respected, and its territory should not be used for any threat of terror against other countries and nations under any circumstances," read the statement.

Moscow-format concluded last week

Notably, the meeting would be held a week after a high-level meeting with the ten countries, including the "top dignitaries" of the Taliban government, was concluded on October 20. The participating countries also called upon the Taliban regime to adopt moderate policies and a friendly approach towards its neighbours besides respecting the rights of ethnic groups, women and children.

A series of incidents unfolded after the Taliban captured the national capital, Kabul, on August 15, including a bomb attack. Since the Taliban's conquest, lakhs of desperate Afghan nationals have fled the war-torn country and taken asylum in different countries. Lakhs of people are still waiting for their turn to reach other countries. Despite facing a barrage of criticism and pressure from international communities, the terror organisation stood staunchly against the requests and warnings.

With inputs from ANI

Image: AP
Former South Korean president Roh Tae-woo, who participated in a military coup then won the election that was the countrys first move toward democracy before he was imprisoned for corruption, died on Tuesday. He was 88.

The Seoul National University Hospital said Roh died while being treated for an illness. It gave no further details.

Roh was a key participant in the 1979 military coup that made his army friend and coup leader Chun Doo-hwan president after their mentor, dictator Park Chung-hee, was assassinated earlier in 1979.

Roh led his army division into Seoul and joined other military leaders for operations to seize the capital.

The coup and the subsequent crackdown by the Chun-controlled military on pro-democracy protesters in the southern city of Gwangju in 1980 are two of the darkest chapters in South Koreas turbulent modern history.

About 200 people were killed in the military-led crackdowns in Gwangju, according to government records.

Roh was Chuns hand-picked successor, which would have assured him the presidency in an easy indirect election.

But months of massive pro-democracy uprisings in 1987 forced Roh and Chun to accept a direct presidential poll that was the start of South Koreas transition to democracy.

His victory in the hotly contested December 1987 election was largely attributable to a split in opposition votes between Kim Young-sam and Kim Dae-jung, who both later became presidents.

During his five-year term, Roh aggressively pursued ties with communist nations under his Northward Diplomacy as communism fell in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union dissolved.

South Korea was then deeply anti-communist because of its rivalry with North Korea, but under Roh it opened diplomatic relations with a communist nation for the first time - Hungary in 1989, the year when the Berlin Wall fell and communism crumbled across Eastern Europe.

Roh established relations with the Soviet Union in 1990 and with China in 1992. Relations with North Korea improved under Roh, with the two sides holding their first-ever prime ministers talks in 1990 and both countries joining the United Nations at the same time in 1991.

In his later years as president, Roh concentrated on boosting domestic consumption to make up for exports that were slowed by global economic downturns, only to be dealt the lowest full-year growth rate in his tenure.

After his successor, Kim Young-sam, investigated the coup and military-led crackdown, Roh was arrested, convicted of mutiny, treason and corruption and received a 22 1/2 prison term. Chun was sentenced to death.

The Supreme Court reduced those sentences to life imprisonment for Chun and 17 years for Roh. Both were still ordered to pay back hundreds of millions of dollars they collected illegally.

After spending about two years in prison, both Roh and Chun were released in late 1997 under a special pardon requested by then President-elect Kim Dae-jung, who sought national reconciliation amid an Asian financial crisis.

Kim Dae-jung was a former dissident whom the military junta led by Chun and Roh had sentenced to death on trumped-up charges of masterminding the 1980 civil uprising.

Roh had stayed mostly out of the public eye following his release from prison, refraining from political activities and speeches.

IMAGE: AP

(Disclaimer: This story is auto-generated from a syndicated feed; only the image & headline may have been reworked by www.republicworld.com)
During his two-day visit to Finland, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg stated that the door remains open for the country to join a military alliance. Furthermore, Stoltenberg referred to Finland as a 'close partner', praising the country's 'sturdy defence', citing interoperability and major exercises as examples. "Finland is one of NATO's closest allies, and we are grateful that we have been able to enhance our relationship in recent years. I anticipate that this cooperation will be one of the top priorities in the strategy," stated Stoltenberg reported news agency Sputnik citing Finnish national broadcaster Yle.

Stoltenberg also said that it is all about NATO's presence in the Baltic Sea and the Baltic states and the role of Finland and Sweden is very important. However, he also pointed out that there is a difference between being a member and not being a member. Finland's President, Sauli Niinisto, had previously suggested that joining NATO is a possibility, and that relations between the Nordic country and NATO have "continued to strengthen in recent years." "We have a lot of mutual understandings about how we can ensure peace, which is the most essential thing in people's lives," he added as reported by Sputnik.

NATO's officials visit Finland for the first time

Members of the North Atlantic Council, NATO's main political decision-making body, visited Finland for the first time in an official capacity. Finland shares a border with Russia, and this visit took place at a time when NATO-Russia relations are at their rock bottom ever since the Cold War ended. It should be mentioned here that NATO dismissed eight members of Russia's mission to the alliance earlier this month, labelling them 'undeclared intelligence officers'. Russia responded by announcing the closure of its NATO mission in Brussels and the withdrawal of diplomatic accreditation from NATO's Moscow headquarters.

The Finnish Foreign Policy Institute remarked that defence cooperation has become a significant driver of Finnish foreign policy. The body highlighted that Finland is becoming increasingly integrated into the Western security system, and the withering of Finnish military non-alignment has further intensified. Meanwhile, a recent poll conducted by market research firm Taloustutkimus revealed increased hostility against Russia. According to the poll, Russia was viewed positively by almost a third of Finnish respondents, while 45% held a negative opinion of the country, reported Sputnik.

Image: Twitter/@Arctic portal/AP
US National Security Advisor (NSA) Jake Sullivan, on Monday, held a meeting with members of exiled Myanmarese administration and expressed the Biden administrations backing for the pro-democracy movement in the country. In his video conference with representatives of Burmese NUG Duwa Lashi La and Zin Mar Aung, Sullivan reiterated his call for democracy and discussed ongoing efforts in the country about the restoration of law and order. Washington has strongly opposed the military coup in the south-east Asian country and for the same, it has also imposed strict sanctions on as many as 10 military leaders of as well as frozen billions of dollars held in American funds . ..

Sullivan 'underscored continued US support for the pro-democracy movement in Burma and they discussed ongoing efforts to restore Burma's path to democracy,' Horne said, referring to the Southeast Asian country by its former name.

Additionally, Sullivan also denounced the Burmese military brutal violence that has left over 1199 people dead, as per rights group AAPP. Furthermore, asserting that Washington will continue to advocate the release for all unjustified arrest, he called for the arrest of Ko Kyaw Min Yu aka Jimmy Ko, a student activist, who was arrested a day before in a surprise overnight attack.

Myanmar's coup detat

The Southeast Asian nation has been hit with gruelling violence after military leader Min Aung Hlaing declared a coup detat on February 1. Not only have Myanmars democratically elected lawmakers including ousted state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi detained but hundreds of thousands of people have lost their lives in the fight for democracy. According to the rights group AAPP, more than 900 people have been killed, 9193 total arrested,7032 currently detained or sentenced while 1954 people are evading an arrest warrant as of October 26.

In the most recent development, ASEAN leaders have said that they will continue to press Myanmar's military junta to allow the organisation's special envoy to visit the country, Japanese media reported. The leaders asserted that the Special Envoy is granted full access to all parties involved during his visit to Myanmar in order to foster trust and confidence. According to Kyodo News, the ASEAN Summit will call on the Myanmar junta to uphold its commitment to a five-point accord reached by the bloc's leaders in April to help find a solution to the country's political turmoil. This comes ahead of the next Southeast Asian conference, which is scheduled for October 26-28.

Image: AP

(With inputs from ANI)
Russians intending to apply for an immigrant visa to the United States must now go to the US Embassy in Warsaw, Poland, according to the US State Department. The action comes after Russia reduced the number of US diplomatic personnel stationed in the country. Notably, the distance between Warsaw and Moscow is approximately 1,200 kilometres.

Russians have been added to the "list of homeless nationalities" by the US Department of State, which updated its Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) on immigrant visas this week, according to RT News. This categorisation is normally designated for nations where the United States does not have a consular presence or where consular personnel are unable to utilise their visas.

Moscow slams US' action

Moscow has already slammed US' action, with Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accusing Washington of deliberately destroying its own consulate services in Russia. According to a DW News report, she stated that US diplomats, for many years, have been dismantling the system of consular services in Russia. She also claimed that the US has twisted its own freedom values and made the visa application process a nightmare.

Diplomatic relations between the United States and Russia have deteriorated drastically in recent years. Diplomatic expulsions on a tit-for-tat basis from both Washington and Moscow have left embassies and consulates understaffed, disrupting normal operations.

The US Department of State issued a travel advisory to Americans in June, telling them not to travel to Russia due to terrorist concerns and a lack of consular help.

US State Department admits that the process is more difficult for Russians

The US State Department said in a statement that the Russian government's decision to prohibit the United States from retaining, hiring or contracting Russian or third-country staff has a significant impact on their ability to provide consular services.

It also admitted that the decision would make the process more difficult for Russians and advised the candidates not to fly to Warsaw unless they had scheduled an appointment first, according to DW News. US' statement said that it took into account a variety of variables, including location, travel availability, application convenience, the percentage of Russian speakers among the locally involved professionals and staff availability.

Image: AP
In a major action against Sudan military rule, the Biden administration announced the suspension of $700 million of financial assistance that was given to the Northeast African country for the past two decades. While announcing the suspension, US State Department Spokesman Ned Price said the full amount of the aid package had been put on "pause" due to the military action against the democratically elected government. Condemning the illegal actions taken by the military ruler, Price appealed to the authority to immediately release the political leaders including, Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, and several other social activists.

Notably, the leader of the takeover, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, in September, ousted the civilian-led transitional authority and detain many of its members. "The civilian-led transitional government should be immediately restored. It represents the will of the Sudanese people, as evidenced by the significant, peaceful demonstrations of support," Price said in a statement released after the press conference on October 25. "We recognize the legitimate grievances about the pace of the transition, but (the) dismissal of government officials and dissolution of government institutions, both violate Sudans constitutional declaration and abandon the democratic aspirations of the Sudanese people."

US has been providing financial aid to the African country

"Military officials should immediately release and ensure the safety of all detained political actors, fully restore the civilian-led transitional government and refrain from any violence against protesters, including the use of live ammunition, Price said. Any change to the transitional government by force risks assistance and our bilateral relationship more broadly. It is worth mentioning that the United States has been providing financial aid to the African country over the years to support social schemes that were running during the regime of the ousted government. However, it was not clear the exact amount of financial help that has been provided by the US authorities.

US could impose sanctions on Sudan

During the presser, the US spokesman said additional US aid to the country could also be at risk, along with the broader relationship. Further, Ned Price said that the US government was following the developments very closely and warned of possible repercussions. Also, the spokesperson warned the military authority to restore the sanctions that had been lifted after Sudans removal from the terrorism sponsor list.

Notably, the relationship between both countries had been recovering after Khartoum agreed to pay damages to the victims of the 1998 embassy bombings in Kenya and Tanzania. In 2020, the US removed Sudan from the US list of "state sponsors of terrorism".

With inputs from AP

Image: AP
The law appears aimed at opposition leader Sam Rainsy, who holds both Cambodian and French citizenship.

Cambodias parliament has passed an amendment to the countrys constitution barring anyone with dual citizenship from holding any top political office, in an apparent move by Prime Minister Hun Sen to prevent a key opposition leader from taking a future government leadership role.

Approved in draft form by Hun Sens cabinet on Oct. 8, and passed on Monday by the countrys ruling party-dominated National Assembly, the law prohibits dual citizens from becoming prime minister or president of the National Assembly, Senate, or Constitutional Council.

The law must now go to Cambodias Senate for approval.

The move is widely believed to be aimed at targeting Sam Rainsy, acting president of the banned opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP), who holds both Cambodian and French citizenship.

Sam Rainsy, 72, lives in exile in France and was sentenced in absentia in March to 25 years on a charge of attempting to overthrow the government. He has already promised to renounce his French citizenship if elected to high office in Cambodia.

Former CNRP lawmaker Ngam Nheng, who lives in Australia, expressed his opposition to the amended law, describing the Cambodian Peoples Party (CPP)-dominated National Assembly as a political tool for Hun Sen, who has ruled Cambodia for more than 35 years.

[The law] proves that this parliament, which was born from a fake election, is just a puppet that follows the dictators orders, Ngem Nheng said. The deputies who represent the nation do not follow the will of the people, but only follow the will of [Hun Sen].

This is such a disgrace! he said.

'A more important issue'

The National Assembly in an announcement on its website called passage of the amendment a move to ensure Cambodias sovereignty and guard against foreign interference in the affairs of the nation, but Heng Chanraksmeydeputy chief of Cambodias Young Analysts Groupcalled the independent functioning of government branches a more important issue.

Lets say that [leaders] have only one nationality, but if their institutions do not work independently in accordance with the constitution, there will still be a problem, he said.

The three branchesthe government, the National Assembly, and the courtsmust be separate from each other. So if these institutions are not independent and not strong on their own, I think this will jeopardize the national interest.

Cambodias Supreme Court dissolved the CNRP in November 2017, two months after arresting its president Kem Sokha over an alleged plot to overthrow the government.

The move came amid a wider crackdown by Hun Sen on the countrys political opposition, independent media, and NGOs that allowed the CPP to win all 125 seats in parliament in a June 2018 election and drew U.S. sanctions and the suspension of trade privileges with the European Union.

Scores of CNRP members and supporters have since been arrested and thrown in jail, awaiting a tortuous legal process made slower by COVID-19 restrictions.

Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Sok Ry Sum. Written in English by Richard Finney.
They had peacefully gathered during the trial of union leader Rong Chhun to call for his release.

A detained Khmer Thavrak youth member gestures from inside a vehicle heading towards the Phnom Penh municipal court in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, October 26, 2021.

A court in the Cambodian capital Phnom Penh sentenced 10 activists to 20-month sentences Tuesday on charges of incitement for their role in protests demanding the release of a prominent union leader, RFA has learned.

Seven members of the Khmer Thavrak youth movement and three supporters of the banned opposition Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) were fined two million riel (U.S. $500) and their 20-month sentences were suspended to 14 or 15 months, lawyers and family members told RFAs Khmer Service.

They were found guilty of incitement under Articles 494 and 495 of Cambodias criminal code, described by the American Bar Association (ABA) as a vague charge that some say is left open to politically motivated misuse.

Authorities arrested the 10 in August and September 2020, after they staged a protest during the trial of popular union leader Rong Chhun.

The labor leader was convicted in August and is serving a two-year sentence on the same incitement charges for his criticism of the governments handling of a longstanding border dispute with neighboring Vietnam.

Sam Sokong, the defense lawyer for the 10 activists told RFA that he was saddened by the verdict, because the activists were only publicly requesting the release of Rong Chhun, and did not provoke social unrest.

The Khmer Thavrak youth activists -- Chhoeun Daravy, Hun Vannak, Mean Prummony, Koet Saray, Tha Lavy, Moung Sopheak, and Eng Malai  and CNRP supporters Chum Puthy, Chhuo Pheng, and Kong Sam An; have been in pretrial detention for more than a year. They will be released next month, but remain on probation for two years.

Four others -- Seng Meng Bunrong, Ho Vann, Ou Chanrith, and Kong Saphea -- were sentenced in absentia to two years and fined 1,000 riel.

Domestic human rights group LICADHO reported that during the trial, the activists were mostly asked if they had permission to gather, and if they had been encouraged by someone outside of Cambodia or paid to protest during Rong Chhuns trial.

Detained Khmer Thavrak youth members sit inside a vehicle heading towards the Phnom Penh municipal court in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, October 26, 2021. Credit: Handout via Reuters

Eng Vanndy, sister of Eng Malai, called the verdict an injustice.

I looked at their faces. They couldnt accept it. They are not guilty and shouldnt accept the verdict, she said.

She urged the court to drop the charges against her sister immediately.

The court made the verdict on the basis of politics rather than the law, Ny Sokha, director of the Cambodian rights group ADHOC told RFA.

The courts decision to sentence the activists to jail terms equal to their pre-trial detentions cannot be considered justice, he said.

Last month, the World Justice Project, a Washington-based independent group that promotes rule of law, ranked Cambodia next to last -- ahead only of Venezuela -- in its global Rule of Law Index for 2021.

Reported by RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Samean Yun. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
China's internet censors have shut down the social media account of a branch of the telecommunications giant China Unicom after it posted a recipe for egg fried rice to mark the Oct. 24 birthday of Mao Anying, son of late supreme leader Mao Zedong, who died in a U.S. bombing raid during the Korean War (1950-1953).



The official Weibo account of the Jiangsu division of China Unicom was shut down after complaints that it had "insulted the People's Volunteers" who fought on the side of the North Korean communists against the U.S.



The original post, which garnered outraged comments from "Little Pink" supporters of the CCP, was no longer accessible, with social media users calling on each other to file complaints with the ministry of industry and information technology over the matter.



The leftist Maoist site Red Culture Network hit out at the recipe in a post on Tuesday.



"China Unicom is a communications company, so why is it posting about egg fried rice on Weibo? Do they make a habit of posting on culinary matters?" the post said. "They chose to post this on Oct. 24."



"This humiliation was perpetrated by an official who works for a central government controlled company."



The furor over the recipe comes after authorities in the eastern province of Jiangxi detained a man for allegedly "impeaching the reputation of heroes and martyrs" after he made comments about the ruling Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-backed Korean War propaganda blockbuster "The Battle at Lake Changjin."



The man, who was identified only as Zuo ***dong, was jailed for a 10-day administrative sentence by police in Nanchang city after he posted an irreverent comment on the Sina Weibo social media platform under the username @yuediyouyou.



"That fried rice was the best thing to come out of the whole Korean War," the user wrote on Oct. 8, 2021, in a joking reference to the Nov. 25, 1950 death of late supreme leader Mao Zedong's son Mao Anying in North Korea.



"Thanks for the fried rice!" the comment said, in a reference to an apocryphal story told in China that Mao Anying's location was only discovered by the U.S. military because he broke blackout rules with a cooking fire, because he wanted to make fried rice.



Police said Zuo had confessed to "impeaching the reputation of the volunteers to resist U.S. aggression and aid Korea," referring to China's People's Volunteer Army (PVA), which crossed the Yalu River and joined the war on the North Korean side on Oct. 19, 1950.



Zuo's jailing came as former Beijing News and Caijing Magazine editor Luo Changping was detained by police in the southern island province of Hainan on the same charge after commenting online about the depiction of China's role in the Korean War (1950-1953) in "The Battle at Lake Changjin."



Luo is currently being held under criminal detention by police in Hainan's Sanya city for "impeaching the reputation of heroes and martyrs," and the case has been transferred to the municipal prosecutor's office.



Critics of the movie outside China say it never mentions that the Korean War was triggered by the North's invasion of the South, and make it appear that the landing of U.S. forces at Incheon was an invasion out of the blue.



Soldiers in the film are led to believe that they are ultimately fighting to protect China from U.S. invasion.



Chengdu-based writer Tan Zuoren said local authorities aren't always sure what standards apply when it comes to what may be said online.



"It seems as if there is no actual standard, or that it's not uniformly applied," Tan told RFA. "The degree to which these laws and policies get implemented varies from place to place."



"It's kind of lacking in any kind of logic," he said.



The rumor that Mao Anying died because he made egg fried rice was listed among 12 versions of history that deviate from the official line after the CCP-backed "China Internet Integrity Conference" in the central city of Changsha.



"Online rumors involving party history seriously pollute the internet, mislead the public, and damage the image of the party," the conference said in a July 15, 2021 communique.



It lists "fabricating a story that the sacrifice of Comrade Mao Anying occurred because he was cooking egg fried rice" among the rumors, including public skepticism over the good deeds attributed to model worker Lei Feng.



Jiangsu-based current affairs commentator Zhang Jianping said the best way to defuse the row would be to make public the circumstances of Mao Anying's death.



"When we start reflecting, then we no longer deliberately promote hatred," Zhang said. "But not a lot of people are in the habit of reflection right now."



A commentator surnamed Cai said the CCP no longer allows any kind of doubts to be voiced about the official line.



"They likely think this is the best way to control public opinion, by making everyone stick to the official guidelines for public opinion or keep quiet," Cai said.



"There is no room for doubt ... or society might develop in a disorderly direction," he said.



Translated and edited by Luisetta Mudie.
People resent being told to eat less for three more years when they may not last through the winter.

In a file photo, a group of women sit before a window display featuring food and drinks at a supermarket in Pyongyang, North Korea

North Korea is telling citizens to tighten their belts through at least 2025, the year they will reopen the border with China which they closed last year to ward off the coronavirus, causing severe food shortages, sources in the country told RFA.

After the government informed citizens to expect more years of hardship, people complained that they might not be able to last through the coming winter--much less hold out through the middle of the decade.

Two weeks ago, they told the neighborhood watch unit meeting that our food emergency would continue until 2025. Authorities emphasized that the possibility of reopening customs between North Korea and China before 2025 was very slim, a resident of the northwestern border city of Sinuiju, across from Chinas Dandong, told RFAs Korean Service Oct. 21.

The food situation right now is already clearly an emergency, and the people are struggling with shortages. When the authorities tell them that they need to conserve and consume less food until 2025 they can do nothing but feel great despair, said the source who requested anonymity for security reasons.

Chronically short of food, the country of 25 million has seen starvation deaths in the wake of the closure of the Sino-Korean border and suspension of trade with China in January 2020 to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The move devastated the North Korean economy, causing food prices to skyrocket without imports from China covering the gap between domestic food production and demand.

The UNs Food and Agriculture Organization projected in a recent report that North Korea would be short about 860,000 tons of food this year, about two months consumption. The UN World Food Program estimates that about 40% of North Koreas population is undernourished.

North Korea faulted factors beyond its control for its inability to achieve food self-sufficiency and other sustainable development goals in a recent Voluntary National Review for the United Nations.

The continued sanctions and blockade on the DPRK, severe natural disasters that hit the country every year and the protracted world health crisis since 2020 are main obstacles to the Governments efforts to achieve the sustainable development of the country and improve the peoples livelihood, the report said.

Though UN and U.S. sanctions restrict the trade of certain goods that could generate cash and resources into Pyongyangs nuclear and missile programs, the border closure restricts all trade, and it has made finding their next meal difficult for many North Koreans.

The people were looking forward to the border reopening and had been hoping it would happen soon, according to the Sinuiju resident.

Distrust and resentment of the authorities is rampant among the residents because at the meeting they said we should reduce the amount of food we eat and tighten our belts more than ever, the source said.

Some of the residents are saying that the situation right now is so serious they dont know if they can even survive the coming winter. They say that telling us to endure hardship until 2025 is the same as telling us to starve to death, said the source.

When the same bleak food message was delivered to residents of Hoeyrong, the northeastern border city of 150,000 people, officials tried to spin it as the countrys successful management of the pandemic in a world ravaged by coronavirus, a resident told RFA.

They said at the meeting that the coronavirus situation in other countries was so bad. The number of coronavirus-related deaths is rapidly increasing every day around the world, said the second source, who requested anonymity to speak freely.

But the residents do not trust the authorities explanation, saying, No matter how difficult the situation is, where on Earth could there be people going through more difficulty than we are? the second source said.

The people criticize the government for doing nothing to solve the food crisis and worry that the border will remain closed even if they are dying of starvation, according to the second source.

Criticism is coming out that the governments emphasis on saving food might be because the Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un is not aware of how serious the food situation is, the second source said.

Residents are already struggling to get by and have already tightened their belts as much as possible. They resent the unrealistic demands of the authorities, asking how much tighter they could possibly tighten their belts, said the second source.

The North Korean government has been pushing its mantra of self-reliance since the beginning of this year. One of leader Kim Jong Uns key messages in the eighth congress of the ruling Korean Workers Party in January was for the country to decrease dependence on imports and solve its own problems.

In April, authorities told them to prepare for an economic situation worse than the Arduous March, the Korean name for the 1994-1998 famine that killed millions, as many as 10 percent of the country by some estimates.

In July, the Central Committee ordered citizens to start farming their own food in anticipation of a food shortage that could last three years.

Sources said that citizens were resentful because the government was shirking its responsibilities to the people, simply telling them that they were on their own to feed themselves without doing anything to solve the problem.

Reported by Jeong Yon Park for RFAs Korean Service. Translated by Leejin Jun. Written in English by Eugene Whong.
Bangladesh police stand guard in front of the madrassa at the Balukhali refugee camp where six Rohingya were killed in an attack on Oct. 22 in the Ukhia sub-district of Cox's Bazar, Oct. 26, 2021.

Rohingya in Bangladesh are living in fear and many dont leave their shelters after dark following the killings of a prominent leader and six others within a month in Coxs Bazar, residents told BenarNews.

Some refugees said they had received threats from members of the Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA). Police said security has been beefed up in the camps to prevent further bloodshed  noting that some militants were calling themselves ARSA to create chaos.

Since Muhib Ullahs murder and the six killings, Rohingya people at the camps have been passing their days in great panic, Dil Mohammad told BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service, on Tuesday.

Muhammad is the head of the madrassa at the Balukhali refugee camp in the Ukhia sub-district of Coxs Bazar where six Rohingya were killed in a pre-dawn attack last Friday.

They wanted to take control of the madrassa, but we did not agree with them. We go by our own ideology and work in favor of repatriation [to Myanmar]. Their activities go against the [Bangladesh] government, said Mohammad, who has been in police custody for his own protection and no longer stays at the madrassa.

Since Muhib Ullahs murder, law enforcers have been conducting drives against criminals every night. They use this madrassa for the convenience of their operation.

Rohingya leader Muhib Ullah was shot dead by unidentified gunmen on the night of Sept. 29 in his office at the Kutupalong camp in Coxs Bazar.

So far, police have arrested 23 suspects  nine in connection with the killing of Ullah, and 14 connected to the killings of the six Rohingya, officials said.

Police, meanwhile, have continued to deny the existence of ARSA, a militant group whose 2017 attack on government outposts in Myanmars Rakhine state led to a brutal a crackdown against Rohingya, causing about 740,000 to flee to Bangladesh.

There is no ARSA presence at the camps, some groups claim [to be] ARSA, Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal told BenarNews when asked if the group was responsible for the killings.

We have been investigating the killings. The anti-repatriation groups could have perpetrated the attacks, Khan said.

Also, there are groups in the camps seeking to establish supremacy over criminal activities at the camps  any of the groups could have carried out the attacks.

Bangladesh and Myanmar officials agreed in late 2017 on a plan to repatriate thousands of Rohingya to their homeland in Rakhine state. Since then, efforts to return the refugees to Myanmar have failed.

Nights are dreadful

The mother-in-law of Md. Amin, one of last weeks victims, said she and others have some courage during the day, but are severely stressed.

The nights are dreadful. They have been threatening to kill us by burning our block. So we are so fearful that we think twice before stepping out, Hamida Khatun, 55, told BenarNews.

Khatun, who blames ARSA, said Amin had stepped out of their home when militants caught him and shot him.

The bullets pierced his left jaw. They stabbed him, cut his leg vein and severed a hand, she said.

A 9-year-old madrassa student described the attack.

Suddenly, the al-Yaqin attacked our madrassa, he told BenarNews, referring to ARSA by another name.

They slaughtered and shot whoever they got in their reach. We have been in great fear lest al-Yaqin attacks us again, the student said, adding that his older brother was seriously injured.

A camp leader who requested anonymity over security concerns, also blamed ARSA members and called them desperate.

The government has been providing us security, but will they give us security all year round? They killed six people within less than one month of Muhib Ullahs murder. The incidents make the people concerned about their safety and security, he said.

ARSA has been targeting Rohingya who have been aiding the law enforcement agencies. So the people are not interested in helping the law enforcement agencies, he said.

ARSA activity favors the Myanmar military

Despite these concerns, a police official said the camp is safe.

On Tuesday, the area around the madrassa appeared desolate except for armed police officers who stood guard.

The law-and-order situation at the camp has been under total control. The security measures in the madrassa and neighboring areas have been beefed up, Mohammad Sihab Kawser Khan told BenarNews.

We have been providing security to the affected people, said Kawser, commander of the armed police battalion in charge of security of the camps.

Former foreign secretary Md. Touhid Hossain questioned the governments denial of ARSA in Bangladesh.

ARSA is present at the Rohingya camps. But the government does not want to recognize its presence for strategic reasons, he said.

Every ARSA activity favors the Myanmar military and goes against Bangladeshs interests, Hossain said.

Earlier this week, ARSA denied responsibility for the killings in a post on Twitter. It blamed what it called ARSA 2.0, a criminal gang that is responsible for many crimes in refugee camps and beyond.

Hossain pointed out that Muhib Ullah had been working to build public support for repatriation efforts before he was killed.

They killed six people who had been working to encourage Rohingya to repatriate, and assisting law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order inside the camps, Hossain said about the madrassa attack.

There was connivance between ARSA and the Myanmar military.

Hossain noted that about 300 madrassas have been established in the refugee camps in and around Coxs Bazar.

The internecine conflicts are mainly for controlling these madrassas, he said.

In the future, this violence could spill into the neighboring areas and create security threats in Bangladesh.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
Journalists had covered protests against Myanmar's military coup, and were 'just doing their job,' relatives say.

More than 30 journalists arrested in Myanmar for reporting on the Feb. 1 military coup that overthrew the countrys elected civilian government are still being held in custody following prisoner amnesties that many had hoped would see them freed, sources in the country say.

The 34 journalists still held include 10 women and a U.S. citizen, Danny Fenster of the Myanmar-based Frontier news magazine, who has been denied family visits and is now in poor health in Insein Prison in the former capital Yangon.

Many of those denied release have been charged with defaming Myanmars military under Section 505 (a) of the Penal Code, while others have been charged under anti-terrorism laws over suspected ties with the opposition National Unity Government (NUG) or the local Peoples Defense Force (PDF) militias set up to resist military rule, sources say.

Myanmars ruling State Administration Council has twice granted amnesty to detainees held for protesting the military coup, once on June 30 in a mass release that included 14 journalists and a second amnesty on Oct. 18-19 that saw 17 journalists freed.

Thuzar, a female freelance journalist arrested in Yangons Kamaryut township on Aug. 1 and denied contact with her family for more than a month, was among those left behind this month, her husband Ye Ko told RFA in an interview.

Those in prison must have been excited and happy at the thought they would be freed, and when nothing happened, it must have been a terrible blow, Ye Ko said. Giving unexpected hope to people who were already resigned to their fate and then taking that hope away must be devastating.

I would say that this is like killing people in a soft way, he said.

Also speaking to RFA, a family member of another detainee, well-known journalist Sithu Aung Myint, said she had hoped to see him when news of the October amnesty was announced.

I am so disappointed that he was not released, as we had initially heard that he was among those to be freed, she said, adding, I want all imprisoned media people to be freed.

They were arrested just for doing their job, and I believe that they should all be released for the sake of freedom of the press, she said.

Of the several journalists arrested in northern Myanmars Shan state, where villagers are being killed or driven from their homes in clashes between local defense forces and junta troops, only one has so far been released, according to the editor of the Shwe Phee Myay News Agency, a local ethnic media outlet.

To put it bluntly, the junta is targeting journalists in Shan state, he said.

They are carrying out investigations before making their arrests. I think they are trying to maintain a new blackout on the situation in Shan state, he said.

'Nothing to fear'

Journalists detained by junta troops or police should have nothing to fear if they had not incited resistance to military rule or been deeply involved in illegal work, said State Administration Council spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Htun, speaking to RFA.

And I would like to say that whether they are in prison, and where they are being held, depends entirely on their own actions, he said.

Local journalists must now ask themselves whether they should continue with their careers, said veteran journalist Myint Kyaw, noting that there are more journalists and reporters in jail now in Myanmar than ever before.

Since the private media became independent to some extent in 2000, the number of arrests in 2021 has been the highest. Never before in the last 20 years have they been imprisoned like this, he said.

Myanmars ruling State Administration Council says a landslide victory by the civilian National League for Democracy in the countrys November 2020 general election was a result of voter fraud, but has yet to provide evidence of its claims.

Security forces have violently repressed widespread protests against military rule, killing 1,213 people and arresting 7,025 since the Feb. 1 coup, according to the Bangkok-based Assistance Association for Political Prisoners (AAPP).

Reported by RFAs Myanmar Service. Translated by Khin Maung Nyane. Written in English by Richard Finney.
US president Joe Biden says he supports the regional bloc's efforts to hold Burma's junta accountable.

Hassanal Bolkiah (center), the sultan of Brunei and the 2021 chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, speaks during the virtual ASEAN summit that Myanmar did not attend in Bandar Seri Begawan, Oct. 26, 2021.

ASEAN leaders began the Southeast Asian blocs summit on Tuesday without Myanmar, which stayed away to protest its junta chief being barred from the meeting.

Meanwhile, U.S. president Joe Biden said he supported efforts by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations to hold the Burmese military regime accountable to the blocs five-point plan, which aims to restore peace and democracy in post-coup Myanmar.

Myanmar has been invited on a non-political level. However, as of the commencement of the summit, there was no Myanmar representative at the non-political level, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi told a press briefing.

Indonesias top diplomat also reported back on comments made by her boss, President Joko Jokowi Widodo, during Tuesdays ASEAN meeting.

Jokowi, she told reporters, regretted Myanmars refusal to welcome ASEAN's offer as a family to help Myanmar out of its political crisis.

In an unprecedented move earlier this month, ASEAN foreign ministers barred junta chief Min Aung Hlaing from the summit, saying he backtracked on a consensus that he had agreed to during an emergency meeting of ASEAN leaders in Jakarta in April.

[A]SEAN's decision to invite Myanmars representatives on a non-political level to the summit was a tough decision, but one that had to be done, Jokowi said during Tuesdays meeting, Retno quoted him as saying.

The president reminded fellow ASEAN leaders that it is important for us to maintain respect for the principle of non-interference, but on the other hand, we are also obliged to uphold other principles in the ASEAN Charter such as democracy, good governance, respect for human rights and constitutional government, Retno said.

She was referring to the regional blocs longstanding policy of not interfering in the domestic affairs of member states.

In the place of the leader of the Feb. 1 military coup in Myanmar, ASEAN invited a senior diplomat from the junta-appointed Foreign Affairs Ministry as a non-political representative to the summit hosted by Brunei.

Being barred from the summit was a serious blow and a failure on the international front for the junta, Ye Myo Hein, executive director of the Tagaung Political Studies Group in Myanmar, told Radio Free Asia (RFA), with which BenarNews is affiliated.

A statement issued by the ASEAN chair late on Tuesday did not mention Myanmars absence.

It called on the junta to implement the five-point consensus, which includes giving a special envoy to Myanmar access to all political parties. But the Burmese military has refused to do that.

Brunei, the 2021 ASEAN chair, will hand over the rotating chairmanship next year to Cambodia.

On Tuesday, Cambodian strongman Hun Sen had stern words for the Burmese junta, according to a report by the Reuters news agency.

Today, ASEAN did not expel Myanmar from ASEANs framework. Myanmar abandoned its right, Hun Sen said.

Now we are in the situation of ASEAN minus one. It is not because of ASEAN, but because of Myanmar.

Very embarrassing politically

Meanwhile in Myanmar, the juntas Myawaddy newspaper reported that pro-military rallies were held in 47 townships  including Naypyidaw  across the country, ahead of the ASEAN summit.

Political analyst Than Soe Naing said the rallies were held to show there was domestic support for the military government in the face of ASEANs snub to the junta.

The whole country has opposed the junta in the countryside, and ASEANs decision to bar them from attending their meetings is very embarrassing politically, the analyst told RFA.

In such a situation, these rallies were held to show that they have the support of the people. And the number of people attending are just a little over a cockfight.

One Mandalay resident, who did not want to be named, said the military also provided security for the rally in the Aung Myay Tharzan township, although soldiers had often opened fire at pro-democracy protesters at other rallies.

We have never seen these people in our city. They were all strangers. I see them as opportunists who join forces with those who seize power. These supporters were allowed to hold rallies, the Mandalay resident said.

Demonstrators calling for democracy in Myanmar take part in a rally outside the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) building in Jakarta, April 24, 2021. [AFP]

For its part, the Burmese junta-appointed foreign ministry issued a statement on Tuesday about Myanmars no-show at the summit. Myanmar was not boycotting the summit but merely not attending it because ASEAN had denied the military government representation, the junta said.

Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told RFA that the administration finds discrimination against each other and  pressure on each other in our internal affairs" unacceptable.

Myanmar is a sovereign country and already has strong international friendships, he said.

Those purported friends do not include the U.S., as President Joe Biden noted at the ASEAN-U.S. summit later on Tuesday, according to a statement from the White House.

He expressed grave concerns about the military coup and horrific violence in Burma and called on the countrys military regime to immediately end the violence, release those unjustly detained, and restore Burmas path to democracy, the White House said.

He expressed support for ASEAN efforts to hold the Burmese military regime accountable to the five-point consensus.

President Biden met with ASEAN leaders after National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan held virtual talks a day earlier with representatives of the National Unity Government, the shadow civilian government in Myanmar, to underscore Washingtons support for the NUG, the White House said.

Biden, who as president was taking part in his first meeting with ASEAN leaders, also announced the intention to provide up to $102 million in new initiatives to expand the U.S.-ASEAN Strategic Partnership.

The money will go toward supporting Southeast Asias recovery from COVID-19, addressing the climate crisis, promoting economic growth, and developing human capital, the White House said.

Indo-Pacific region, South China Sea

Other regional issues discussed by ASEAN members included the blocs Indo-Pacific outlook and the situation in the disputed South China Sea, whose claimants include ASEAN members the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Brunei.

The ASEAN chairs statement noted that some member-states expressed concerns about land-reclamation activities and damage to the marine environment in the South China Sea that have eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions, and may undermine peace, security, and stability in the region.

The statement did not say which nation or nations were responsible for these activities, although satellite images and regional observers point to China.

Additionally, in recent weeks, two separate Chinese survey ships have sailed into Indonesian and Malaysian waters in the South China Sea. While Indonesia played down the intrusions, Malaysia summoned the Chinese envoy to protest.

At Tuesdays summit, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said ASEAN needed to remain strong amid Chinas challenge.

He noted that Beijings expansive claims to the South China Sea had been invalidated through a 2016 ruling by the International Court of Arbitration in The Hague. The court ruled those claims invalid under the 1982 the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, or UNCLOS.

Similarly, Malaysian Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said Tuesday, matters relating to the South China Sea must be resolved peacefully and constructively, in accordance with universally recognized principles of international law, including the 1982 UNCLOS.

China has never accepted the international tribunals ruling.

Biden, in his remarks, said however that Washington was committed to working with our allies and partners to defend against threats to the international rules-based order and to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Reported by BenarNews, an RFA-affiliated online news service.
Patriarch Bartholomew I, the Istanbul-based leader of the Eastern Orthodox Church, said he was satisfied with his meeting with Joe Biden on October 25, praising the U.S. president as a man of faith, and man of vision.

Bartholomew, 81, met with Biden at the White House after resuming his scheduled visit following an overnight stay in a Washington hospital.

We cannot allow any short-sighted political agendas to interfere with our relationships, that are through, and in Christ Jesus, the Lord and Savior of the world, Bartholomew said after his visit with Biden.

Bartholomew visited the White House after being released from George Washington University Hospital, where he had been admitted on October 24 after he felt unwell due to the long flight the previous day and the busy schedule of events upon arrival, according to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Archbishop Elpidophoros of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America said earlier on Twitter that Bartholomew was feeling well after being discharged from the hospital and was ready to continue his official visit.

Before visiting the White House, Bartholomew held a breakfast meeting hosted by Turkish Ambassador Hasan Murat Mercan, according to the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Bartholomew said his mission as patriarch is purely spiritual and demonstrates how Turkey can be -- not only an inclusive society, but a bridge-builder between East and West. He called the ambassador's welcome an example of mutual dialogue and respect.

The patriarch met later with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the State Department, raising concerns about the plight of Christians in the Middle East and Northern Africa and expressing his hope for stability and religious freedom in the region.

State Department spokesman Ned Price said Blinken raised the Turkish government's closure of an Orthodox seminary on the Turkish island of Halki 50 years ago and reaffirmed that its reopening remains a continued priority.

Price said Blinken and Bartholomew discussed the U.S. commitment to supporting religious freedom around the world and opportunities to work with the Orthodox Christian community worldwide on issues of shared concern, as well as with religious minorities in Turkey and the region.

Blinken also praised the remarkable leadership Bartholomew has shown in calling for solutions to the climate crisis.

The Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople is considered first among equals among Eastern Orthodox patriarchs, which gives him prominence. He directly oversees Greek Orthodox Christians and some other jurisdictions, although large portions of the Eastern Orthodox world are self-governing under their own leaders.

His visit to the United States is to continue until November 3.
YEREVAN -- Armenia on October 26 reported record-high coronavirus-related deaths amid a surge in infections and low vaccination rates in the South Caucasus nation.

Health authorities registered 57 COVID-19 deaths over the past day, the highest figure since the start of the pandemic.

The diseased has claimed the lives of more than 330 Armenians over the past week alone, while new infections also reached new highs during that period.

The official death toll from the disease in the country of about 3 million now stands at 6,112.

RFE/RL's Coronavirus Coverage Features and analysis, videos, and infographics explore how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the countries in our region.

A total of 1,517 new coronavirus cases were recorded over the previous 24 hours, bringing the total cumulative infections in the country to nearly 300,000.

Health Minister Anahit Avanesian warned on October 24 that Armenian hospitals are on the verge of running out of beds for new COVID-19 patients. He also urged Armenians to put on masks everywhere and get vaccinated.

Many Armenians still do not wear mandatory masks indoors, including on overcrowded public buses.

With less than 10 percent of Armenias population fully vaccinated so far, Armenia has Europe's lowest vaccination rate.

As health authorities struggled to cope with the new wave of infections, the Education Ministry has ordered universities to revert to online classes and extended school holidays.

The order, effective from October 26, requires all universities and colleges to provide their students with distance courses until November 15.

A one-week autumn break in primary, secondary, and high schools, which began on October 25, was extended until November 7.
Natallya Matskevich, a Belarusian lawyer known for having defended prominent political prisoners in the country, says she has been deprived of her license, becoming the latest attorney in Belarus to be targeted amid an intensifying crackdown on civil society and the political opposition following last years disputed presidential election.

Matskevich tweeted late on October 25 that the Belarusian Collegium of Lawyers had excluded her from its "proud ranks."

"I felt sorry for them.... Thanks to all good people for their support! My clients, stay strong. I will miss you," Matskevich wrote.

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.

The announcement comes after the Justice Ministry suspended Matskevich on October 12, saying a disciplinary investigation had been launched into her alleged wrongdoing.

Matskevich is one of the most prominent lawyers in Belarus. Her clients included jailed would-be presidential candidates Viktar Babaryka and Syarhey Tsikhanouski.

Earlier this year, another lawyer for Babaryka, Dzmitry Layeuski, was stripped of his license, while his other attorney, Illya Saley, fled the country after being charged with calling for actions that undermine national security.

Anton Hashynski, another well-known lawyer who has defended several opposition figures, was also deprived of his license for alleged wrongdoings.

Belarus was engulfed by protests last year after a presidential election in August -- which the opposition and West say was rigged -- gave strongman Alyaksandr Lukashenka a sixth consecutive term.

In response, the government has cracked down hard on the pro-democracy movement, arresting thousands of people and pushing most of the top opposition figures out of the country.

Lukashenka, who has run the country since 1994, has denied any wrongdoing with regard to the election and has refused to negotiate with the opposition on stepping down and holding new elections.

The European Union, the United States, Canada, and other countries have refused to recognize Lukashenka as the legitimate leader of Belarus and have imposed sanctions on him and several senior Belarusian officials in response to the "falsification" of the vote and the postelection crackdown.
PRAGUE -- The Prague-based MEDIUM-ORIENT news agency is facing a fine in Russia for its alleged failure to follow the requirements of Russia's controversial "foreign agent" law.

Islam Tekushev, the editor in chief of the online Caucasus Times journal founded by MEDIUM-ORIENT, told RFE/RL on October 25 that Russia's media watchdog, Roskomnadzor, had filed a protocol against the media group for violating the law on foreign agents.

Roskomnadzor accuses MEDIUM-ORIENT of refusing to mark online materials by the Caucasus Times as products of an organization that meets the criteria of a "foreign agent."

Roskomnadzor added the media group, which is registered in the Czech Republic, to the list of foreign agents in December.

The fine for refusing to add such designations to media products could amount to as much as 500,000 rubles ($7,140) for companies and organizations.

Russia's foreign agent legislation was adopted in 2012 and has been modified repeatedly.

It requires nongovernmental organizations that receive foreign assistance and are deemed by the government to engage in political activity to be registered, to identify themselves as foreign agents, and to submit to audits.

Later modifications of the law targeted foreign-funded media.

In 2017, the Russian government added RFE/RL's Russian Service, six other RFE/RL Russian-language news services, and Current Time to the list.

At the end of 2020, the legislation was modified to allow the Russian government to place individuals, including foreign journalists, on its foreign agents media list and impose restrictions on them.

Several RFE/RL journalists have since been added to the list.
In recent years, it has become impossible to tell the biggest stories shaping Eurasia without considering Chinas resurgent influence in local business, politics, security, and culture.

Subscribe to this dispatch in which correspondent Reid Standish builds on the local reporting from RFE/RLs journalists across Eurasia to give you unique insights into Beijings ambitions and challenges.

The newsletter is sent on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.

To subscribe, click here.
Turkish and Azerbaijani presidents Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Ilham Aliyev have opened an international airport in the city of Fuzuli near the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh that was built in record time -- over the past eight months.

The ceremony was held on October 26, hours after Erdogan arrived in Fuzuli, the capital of the district with the same name adjacent to Nagorno-Karabakh that was placed under Baku's control as part of a truce signed in November following a 44-day war between Azerbaijani and Armenian forces.

The airport has one runway, and its terminal has a capacity of 200 passengers. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has included the airport on its list of international airports and assigned FZL as its code.

Fuzuli was the first town that Azerbaijan recaptured from ethnic Armenian forces during the war last year.

The airport is about 100 kilometers southeast of Susa, a key city in Nagorno-Karabakh known as Shushi in Armenian.

Susa was another of the settlements that Baku took under its control during the war over the disputed region that started in September 2020 and continued for six weeks.

Erdogan and Aliyev will also take part in groundbreaking ceremonies for the construction of a new highway in the region and a "smart agricultural park" in Zangilan, another district adjacent to Nagorno-Karabakh that Baku took under its control last year. Turkish construction companies, along with other groups, will participate in the projects, Azerbaijani officials said earlier.

The Turkish presidential administration said the two leaders will also discuss "a wide range" of matters concerning Azerbaijani-Turkish relations and ways to further develop the cooperation between the two nations. It said they would discuss the situation in the region and the world as well.

A Moscow-brokered truce ended last year's heavy fighting which saw thousands of casualties on both sides. Armenia lost control of parts of the enclave's territory as well as seven surrounding districts of Azerbaijan it had held since the 1990s.

Armenian separatists retained control over most of Nagorno-Karabakh's territory, and some 2,000 Russian peacekeepers have been deployed along the frontline areas to protect a land link connecting Nagorno-Karabakh with Armenia.

The region is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan but came under the control of ethnic Armenian forces after a separatist war in the early 1990s.

With reporting by Anadolu and Azernews
Gas stations across Iran experienced widespread disruptions on a government system managing fuel subsidies, in what state television said was a cyberattack.

State TV quoted an official with Iran's National Security Council confirming the October 26 attack on the gasoline-distribution computer system amid reports of long lines at stations, many of which were closed.

The Oil Ministry said only the sale of subsidized gas using a smart card was disrupted and people could still buy fuel at higher prices.

Earlier, state media IRNA cited an Interior Ministry spokesman as saying the incident was caused by a technical problem in the subsidized fuel card system as authorities sought to deny there as a cyberattack.

The semiofficial ISNA news agency quoted the president of the countrys gas station owners association as saying there was a cyberattack, but the news was later deleted and replaced with comments about a software problem.

Meanwhile, Oil Ministry officials were holding an emergency meeting to solve the problem, describing the outage as temporary.

Social-media videos showed electronic street billboards in some cities, including Tehran, displaying messages directed at Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei: "Khamenei, where's our fuel?

ISNA said those trying to buy fuel with a government-issued card through the machines instead received a message reading cyberattack 64411. The news was later deleted but social media users reported similar messages.

That number is the hotline operated by the office of the supreme leader that handles questions about Islamic law.

The incident comes as Iran marks the anniversary of November 2019 protests, which were sparked by an increase in the price of subsidized gas but quickly expanded into nationwide anti-government protests.

Security forces responded to the protests with a violent crackdown, with Amnesty International identifying at least 304 killed. Mojtaba Zonoor, the head of Irans parliamentary national security committee, said 230 were killed. Unconfirmed reports put the number of protesters killed at up to 1,500.

With reporting by AP, IRNA, and ISNA
When notorious former Iranian prison chief Davoud Rahmani died last week, his family described him as a man who exhibited good character and kindness.

But prisoners who served time in Irans Ghezel-Hesar prison in the 1980s recalled a ruthless warden who oversaw the widespread use of torture.

Rahmani, also known as Haj Davoud, was known among inmates for innovating a torture technique known as the "coffin."

His job was to turn prisons into hell [and] force prisoners to recant their beliefs."

The 76-year-olds death, which was announced on October 20, triggered a flurry of new allegations of abuse by Iranians who served time in Ghezel-Hesar prison from 1981-84.

Rahmanis stint as prison chief coincided with a purge of leftists following the Islamic Revolution in 1979 when Islamists were attempting to consolidate power.

Former prisoners described Rahmani as an uneducated man who personally tortured inmates to force them to publicly renounce their political beliefs.

'Your Whole Being Falls Apart'

Canada-based researcher Shokoufeh Sakhi was 18 years old when she was sent to Ghezel-Hesar prison, about 20 kilometers northwest of Tehran. She said she endured nine months of the coffin torture technique.

Sakhi said inmates were blindfolded and forced to sit or lie down in absolute silence and isolation in a small space partitioned by sheets of plywood. The prisoners, she said, were then subjected to complete sensory deprivation, a form of psychological torture.

Rahmani, she said, had called the technique a machine that would transform the inmates and make them renounce their political beliefs.

The whole time when youre in these coffins, not only are you separated from [other prisoners] but you are also isolated as a human being, Sakhi said in an interview with RFE/RLs Radio Farda.

Your five senses are being limited and youre being held in a very draining situation where your whole being gradually falls apart, Sakhi added.

Sakhi said while she was tortured she could not even remember the faces of her mother or her only child.

'Constantly Flogged'

Iranian writer Monireh Baradaran, a former left-wing activist, was incarcerated in Ghezel-Hesar prison in 1982. She said Rahmani verbally abused, beat up, and flogged inmates. In some cases, Rahmani forced prisoners to stand for more 30 hours, she said.

These were the common methods of torture under Haj [Davoud], she wrote in an editorial for Radio Zamaneh, a Persian-language broadcaster based in The Netherlands.

Baradaran also recalled that dozen of prisoners from her ward in Ghezel-Hesar prison were kept for months in a prison toilet, where she said they were constantly flogged.

Baradaran said she was infuriated by the death notice issued by Rahmanis family. She called the notice, which was accompanied by a photo of a serene-looking Rahmani, an attempt to normalize him.

'Appaling Crimes'

Roya Boroumand, a Washington-based human rights defender, told RFE/RL that Rahmani's mandate was ideological.

His job was to turn prisons into hell [and] force prisoners to recant their beliefs, said Boroumand, co-founder of the Abdorrahman Boroumand Center, which promotes human rights in Iran.

For former prisoners, his name is associated with humiliation and arbitrary punishments, including confinement in 'graves' or cardboard boxes where prisoners were held for days, she said.

Rahmani worked as a blacksmith before joining the ranks of the Islamist revolutionaries in 1979. He later worked as an assistant to Assadollah Lajevardi, a prosecutor and warden of Evin prison, Irans most notorious. Lajevardi was nicknamed the Butcher Of Evin.

Lajevardi promoted Rahmani to Ghezel-Hesar prison chief. The latter was removed from his position in 1984 amid allegations of torture.

Lajevardi defended Rahmani as a revolutionary who was fired despite his abundant ability. Some media reports suggested that Rahmani returned to his former job at Evin prison after he was sacked.

Rahmanis alleged victims regret that he never faced justice.

The fact that he died without being held accountable for his appalling crimes is very unfortunate for thousands of political prisoners who were dehumanized and tortured by Haj Davoud, and for society at large, Boroumand told RFE/RL.

Rahmanis death came as a former Iranian judiciary official is facing trial in a landmark case in Sweden over his alleged role in the mass executions of thousands of political prisoners in the summer of 1988.

Among the around 5,000 prisoners who were executed were inmates who had been tortured by Rahmani.

Vahid Pourostad of RFE/RL's Radio Farda contributed to this story.
A court in Russia's southwestern city of Astrakhan has sentenced four Jehovahs witnesses to lengthy prison terms amid an ongoing crackdown of the religious group's followers across the country.

The Investigative Committee said on October 26 that three men were sentenced to eight years in prison each, and a woman to 3 1/2 years in prison on extremism charges.

Rustam Diarov, Yevgeny Ivanov, and Sergei Klikunov were found guilty of creating an extremist community, while Olga Ivanova was convicted of taking part in an extremist groups activities.

The four went on trial in June.

Aleksandr Verkhovsky, the chairman of the Sova human rights organization, condemned the latest court decision against Jehovahs Witnesses, calling it further "proof of increasing cruelty in the ongoing campaign" against the members of the religious group.

Since labeling the denomination as extremist in 2017, authorities have raided believers homes across Russia, charging and arresting dozens of people.

Headquartered in the United States, the Jehovah's Witnesses have been viewed for decades with suspicion in Russia, where the Orthodox Church is the dominant religion.

The group is known for its rejection of military service, refusal to celebrate national and religious holidays or birthdays, and detailed Bible study among other things.

According to Jehovahs Witnesses, 257 criminal cases have been launched against the members of the group, 559 men and women have been charged with extremism, and 70 believers are currently incarcerated.
ALMATY, Kazakhstan -- A court in Kazakhstan has toughened the sentence of a jailed activist convicted of "creating a banned organization and taking part in its activities."

Kazakhstans Bureau for Human Rights and the Rule of Law (KMBPCh) said on October 26 that a court in the Central Asian nation's largest city, Almaty, ruled last week that Ulasbek Akhmetov's sentence must be toughened and two more months must be added to his two-year prison term.

The court also ruled that Akhmetov, who was recognized by human rights groups in Kazakhstan as a political prisoner, must serve his term not in a colony settlement, as per Akhmetov's initial sentence, but in a regular prison. A colony settlement is a dormitory-like penitentiary located near an industrial facility where convicts work along with regular people.

According to the KMBPCh, the court did not provide any explanation for its move.

The court announced the decision on October 20, a day after media reports said that Akhmetov, along with other four jailed activists, had signed a letter addressed to the United Nations and the European Parliament that called on the international bodies to impose sanctions against Kazakh officials and judges involved in an ongoing crackdown on dissent.

Akhmetov was initially sentenced on August 31 to two years in a colony settlement and banned from any political and social activity for five years, after a court in Almaty found him guilty of being a leader and organizer of the banned Koshe (Street) Party.

The Koshe Party is associated with the Democratic Choice of Kazakhstan (DVK) of fugitive businessman and former Energy Minister Mukhtar Ablyazov, who was convicted in absentia of murder and embezzlement.

Ablyazov is an exiled former head of BTA Bank and an outspoken critic of the Kazakh authorities who has fought multiple extradition battles over accusations that he embezzled billions. The government designated the DVK an extremist organization in March 2018.

Human Rights Watch earlier this year criticized the Kazakh government for using anti-extremism laws as a tool to persecute critics and civic activists. Several hundred people have been prosecuted for membership in the Koshe Party.

The Kazakh authorities have insisted there are no political prisoners in the Central Asian country.
During his visit to Ashgabat, Kazakh President Qasym-Zhomart Toqaev said he discussed the issue of border delimitation, ways to bolster economic ties, and regional security with his Turkmen counterpart.

The talks were held on October 25, the second and last day of Toqaevs official visit to the Turkmen capital, Ashgabat.

Speaking after his meeting with President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov, Toqaev told reporters that the sides signed a number of important documents related to the delimitation of the land border between the two Central Asian nations and their fishing zones in the Caspian Sea, among other things.

The more than 450-kilometer border between Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan became an international frontier in 1991 following the collapse of the Soviet Union. The two former Soviet republics ratified a treaty on the delimitation and demarcation process in 2001.

There are potentials for boosting trade and economic ties between the two former Soviet republics, Toqaev also said.

The Kazakh president said he and Berdymukhammedov thoroughly discussed the situation in Afghanistan and agreed that the ongoing close cooperation to strengthen stability and security in this long-suffering country must continue."

With reporting by Kazinform and KazTAG
BISHKEK -- Gulzat Alymkulova, a well-known Kyrgyz blogger known online as Gulzat Mamytbek, was arrested on fraud charges upon arriving in the capital, Bishkek, after a trip abroad, authorities said on October 26.

Bishkek city police officials said on October 26 that Alymkulova was arrested a day earlier, adding that seven Bishkek residents had filed lawsuits, accusing her of collecting some $110,000 from them last year, promising quick interest gains on the sum, before disappearing without a trace.

Alymkulova, who has touched upon sensitive social issues in her blog posts, wrote on Instagram earlier that she works in Turkey. Neither she nor her representatives commented on her arrest.
A Russian human rights activist says a Polish court has ruled against his extradition to Russia, where he faces prosecution.

Yevgeny Khasoyev, a leader of the Siberia Without Torture human rights group, told RFE/RL that a court in Warsaw on October 26 denied a request by Russian authorities to extradite him back to the country.

Khasoyev, who is from the Siberian region of Buryatia, said in March that he was fleeing Russia after two criminal cases were launched against him, while a court ordered him to be sent to a psychiatric clinic for examination.

Buryatia's Investigative Committee said Khasoyev, who is accused of assaulting a court bailiff and libel, was placed on an international wanted list in April.

The activist has insisted that the cases launched against him are politically motivated. He provided legal assistance to activists detained in Buryatia's capital, Ulan-Ude, during unsanctioned rallies in January in support of jailed opposition politician Aleksei Navalny.

"The [Polish] judge said it is obvious to her that by launching a probe against me and forcing checkups at a psychiatric clinic, the authorities in Russia tried to retaliate for my legal assistance to people who took part in winter protests to support Navalny," Khasoyev told RFE/RL.
There are few things held more sacred by the Russian state than the Soviet Unions role in the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, and the conflict that killed an estimated 27 million Soviet citizens still reverberates across Russia. Few families, if any, were left untouched.

So when the popular rapper Morgenshtern said that President Vladimir Putins government spends far too much money on annual Victory Day celebrations -- the Red Square military parade and other ceremonies held on May 9, which Russia marks as the anniversary of the Nazi surrender --- his remarks did not go unnoticed. And he may face prosecution.

I really dont understand this celebration of a victory that happened, what, 76 years ago. Every year we spend millions on it, the 23-year-old rapper, known as much for his hit tracks Ice and Cadillac as his heavily tattooed face, said in an interview with celebrity TV host and former presidential candidate Kseniya Sobchak that was posted to her YouTube channel on October 25.

I guess theres nothing [else] to be proud of. Maybe thats why, Morgenshtern said, seemingly thinking out loud about the governments motives for mounting the massive annual celebrations, which have been stepped up since Putin came to power over two decades ago.

But to reminisce every year, for almost a century, about how we once won -- I dont know, he said, adding a mildly uncouth interjection into his remarks several times. I dont understand it, to be honest.

Pressed by Sobchak what victory in what Russia calls the Great Patriotic War means to him personally, the rapper replied that it was cool -- good going! But move further, achieve more victories -- victories in information technology, victories in space technology -- and celebrate them. But no, were still only celebrating what happened 70-some years ago.

The exchange began when Sobchak, sitting on the floor with Morgenshtern for the interview, asked what he makes of artists who appear in World War II-themed music videos funded by the state. He threw up his hands and said he doesnt understand the fuss over Victory Day, which surveys show is one of the two most popular public holidays in Russia, alongside New Years Eve. The clip of the interview has since been viewed more than 2 million times.

The memory of World War II and those who died, at the front or elsewhere, remains immensely important to millions of Russians, but Putins critics accuse him of using the proudest moment in a troubled century as a political crutch decades later.

Others, however, are critical of anyone they see as questioning the honor of the dead or the Soviet Unions role in the Allied victory.

The movement Veterans Of Russia soon issued a statement saying that it would be appealing to prosecutors to investigate Morgenshterns words for denigration of historical memory and legacy. Hours later, federal Investigative Committee chief Aleksandr Bastrykin issued an order for Morgenshterns remarks to be checked to see if they violated the law.

I want to apologize to all those who were offended by my words about Victory Day. I in no way meant to belittle the importance of this event."

Since Putins return for a third presidential term in 2012, Russia has passed a flurry of laws regulating statements that can be deemed to offend certain minorities or undermine certain historical episodes feted by the state. Russias newly revised constitution also bans any attempt to belittle Russias military victories.

It was no surprise, then, that the controversy over Morgenshterns comments reached the administration of Putin, who frequently uses public forums to talk about the Soviet Unions role in World War II as he sees it -- and sometimes to threaten European governments with consequences if they question Moscows narrative.

Speaking to reporters on October 26, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that Morgenshtern was likely speaking not out of malice but out of ignorance, but added that he should take moral responsibility for his statements.

Young people who are famous and popular among their peers should grasp that in some way or another they have a duty to understand such nationally important concepts as Victory Day, he said.

On October 26, with the controversy showing no signs of abating, Morgenshtern took to his Instagram account to issue a public apology for his words.

In a Stories post to his 7.7 million followers, he said he was simply making an honest admission to the effect that he doesnt understand Victory Day, and claimed that his words were taken out of context as a result of the way the video interview was edited.

He said that he had actually gone on to argue that Russias World War II veterans -- many of whom live in poverty -- should be given greater subsidies by the government.

I respect and am proud of veterans, but, unfortunately, I dont correctly formulate my thoughts, he said.

I want to apologize to all those who were offended by my words about Victory Day. I in no way meant to belittle the importance of this event, he wrote, going on to accuse unspecified media outlets of distorting his words for their own dirty purposes.

Its also not Morgenshterns first controversial incident.

In June, the rapper was fined 100,000 rubles ($1,435) on charges of promoting drug use in video clips for his songs Rozovoye Vino 2 and Family. And in May, prosecutors launched a probe after complaints that he had offended religious feelings in his track New Wave.
One person was killed and three injured in a gas explosion in an apartment block in Russias Tatarstan region.

Officials in Tatarstan's second-largest city, Naberzhnye Chelny, said late on October 25 that a 22-year-old woman died from her injuries.

The Emergency Situations Ministry said that 32 people were evacuated after the explosion destroyed six apartments in a five-floor residential building.

Video footage showed the roof and part of two upper floors collapsed. The rubble damaged nearby buildings and vehicles on the street.

The Investigative Committee opened a case into the incident.

Gas explosions occur with some frequency in Russia due to aging pipes and infrastructure, as well as lax safety standards.

In September, seven people were killed when an explosion destroyed three floors in a nine-story residential building in Noginsk, just outside of Moscow.
A self-exiled Turkmen opposition activist who was detained by Turkish authorities at Ashgabat's request has reportedly started a hunger strike.

The Bulgarian-based Turkmen Helsinki Foundation (THF) said on October 25 that Akhmet Rahmanov began his hunger strike three days previously.

"I hope to attract the international community's attention to the mass violation of the human rights of Turkmenistan's citizens at home and abroad," Rahmanov told the THF in a deportation center in Tuzla near Istanbul.

The THF said earlier that the 47-year-old Rahmanov went incommunicado on October 18 after he visited a migration office in the southwestern Turkish city of Antalya to prolong his residence permit.

A day later, Rahmanov's friends were informed that he had been placed in a deportation center. Rahmanov has been a longtime administrator of the opposition Democratic Choice of Turkmenistan movement's online chat page.

He has also been critical of authoritarian President Gurbanguly Berdymukhammedov and his government on YouTube and programs aired by RFE/RL's Turkmen Service.

Turkmen activists residing in Turkey have faced increased pressure from Turkish law enforcement officials in recent months, while their families at home have also come under close scrutiny from local authorities.

Since last year, protests against Berdymukhammedov have been staged by Turkmen citizens residing in Turkey, the United States, and Northern Cyprus.

Government critics and human rights groups say Berdymukhammedov has suppressed dissent and made few changes in the restrictive country since he came to power after the death of autocrat Saparmurat Niyazov in 2006.

Last week, the THF quoted the wife of another Turkmen opposition activist, Kamil Abulov, who resides in Turkey, as saying that her husband had been detained and placed in a deportation center.

The Turkish police revealed to Abulov's wife that the Turkmen government has asked Ankara to arrest and deport 28 Turkmen citizens, THF said.

Abulov, 35, was detained briefly in early August after Turkmen activists tried to stage a protest in front of the Turkmen Consulate in Istanbul.
Ukraine has seen record numbers of COVID-19 infections and deaths in October. The latest wave has swept through a population with a low rate of vaccination and a high level of misinformation regarding the pandemic and vaccines. Doctors say the vast majority of their hospitalized patients are unvaccinated and are calling on citizens to get their shots.
An appeals court in the Netherlands has ruled that Ukraine has legal control over a trove of ancient artifacts from Crimea that was on loan to a Dutch museum when Russia seized the peninsula in 2014 in a decision hailed by Kyiv but slammed by Moscow.

The items, known as the Scythian Gold, are in the Netherlands because they were borrowed from four museums in Crimea and one in Kyiv for an exhibition in early 2014 at Amsterdam's Allard Pierson Museum.

They were sent before Russia forcibly annexed Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014 after sending in troops and staging a referendum dismissed as illegitimate by the UN General Assembly.

The pieces, including a solid gold Scythian helmet and a golden neck ornament each weighing more than a kilogram, were on display in the Netherlands when Russia annexed the peninsula from Ukraine in 2014.

"The Allard Pierson Museum is no longer obliged to return the pieces to the Crimean museums," said the ruling, which can be appealed.

"The rights of the Ukrainian state, based on the Law of Museums ... take precedence," the court added.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy immediately hailed the decision as a "long-awaited victory."

"The 'Scythian gold' will return to Ukraine. We always will regain whats ours. After the 'Scythian gold,' we'll [get back] Crimea," he added.

The appeal came after a court in Amsterdam ruled in 2016 that the collection was part of Ukraine's cultural heritage and should be returned to Kyiv.

The court stated that only sovereign states could claim objects as cultural heritage.

Museums in Moscow-controlled Crimea rejected the ruling saying that the artifacts are part of Crimeas heritage and should be returned to the museums in the peninsula.

It was not immediately clear whether the four Crimean museums would lodge a final appeal before the Dutch Supreme Court or when the pieces would actually be handed over to Kyiv.

The lawyer representing the museums said his clients "were very sad" by the Dutch appeals courts decision.

"The goods are considered to be of Ukrainian heritage and are to be given back. But there is no 'back' because it never belonged to Kyiv's museums," Rob Meijer told reporters.

The Russian Culture Ministry said it supported the museums' bid to get the treasures back, saying that the pieces had been found in Crimea and "belong" to a museum that originally exhibited them, according to AFP.

The head of the Russian Duma's Foreign Affairs Committee, Leonid Slutsky, denounced "a kind of cultural hijacking multiplied by Russophobia."

Kyiv has accused Russia of looting many treasures from Crimea since the annexation and feared Moscow would claim the artifacts once they were returned to the Crimean museums.

With reporting by Reuters, dpa, AFP, and Telegraaf
Beneath the streets of Tbilisi lies a network of tunnels, bomb shelters and Soviet-era chambers that many locals know nothing about. Over the past several months, photographer David Tabagari has been exploring this silent underworld with extraordinary results.

Beginning in the spring of 2021, the professional photographer began venturing into the entranceways most pedestrians pass by without noticing. Many of those unremarkable entrances lead to an underworld with a mysterious and sinister past.

Tabagari says his day job, working for Tbilisis City Hall, has been some help in sourcing information about where the various Soviet-era facilities exist under Tbilisi.

But Tabagari says most of his explorations come after spotting telltale ventilation grills at street level, and getting information from various networks of diggers.

Tbilisis diggers are adventurous Georgians who frequent these secret underground spaces and sometimes share their discoveries in social-media groups.

Little information exists about the construction of Tbilisis underworld. According to local journalist and academic Emil Avdaliani, much of the underground network was built by Lavrenty Beria, the notorious chief of the Soviet secret police.

Along with fellow ethnic Georgian Josef Stalin, Beria oversaw the most savage repressions and massacres of the Soviet era.

Passageways under Tbilisi that reportedly lead from a former secret police headquarters to the citys train station have led to speculation some tunnels were used to transport prisoners or bodies during the murderous purges carried out under Stalin and Beria.

In the summer of 2021, Tabagari read a rumor on online forums about a subterranean prison under central Tbilisi. After searching online and on foot, he eventually found the remains of prisoner cells beneath a former secret police station.

The site is so little-known that when he asked young teenagers playing in a courtyard, none of them had heard of the disquieting space that lay just beneath their feet.

Tabagari recalls that there was no light in this place. It was very hard for me to stand there, where people were hurt or killed.

Some people used metal to scrape their names in the cells the photographer explained. Who knows, but I was told by some local historians that it's possible some of the names were of people who were shot. In these cells you can see the true face of the Soviet Union.

Other spaces below ground were built in preparation for nuclear war.

Every big city in Georgia had underground shelters Tabagari claims. Even under the big factories and hospitals and government buildings, they had their own bomb shelters.

The photographer says being inside the underground bomb shelters created a powerful reminder of the tension of the Cold War, when the world came close to erupting in nuclear conflict. You can feel how dangerous it was, he says.

Tabagari spoke to some diggers who entered Tbilisis underworld soon after the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. They told him: Everything inside was perfect. There was water, there was food, there were generators and air pumps. You could have stayed underground for a month.

One of the bomb shelters Tabagari encountered beneath Tbilisi was made up of around 150 rooms. The photographer says the shelter was like a mini city beneath a city that could be sealed up with massive steel blast doors. Ive never seen anything like it, he says.

Tabaguri says the Fight Club-like rule for Tbilisi's underworld explorers is that they must not touch anything.

Despite drawing attention to the mysterious Tbilisi underworld, Tabagari says he hopes the exact locations will remain the preserve of only the tight-knit group of local explorers.
TASHKENT -- Hes been in power for a while, so he is not so hungry [for money] anymore. A new person would be hungry and start stealing.



That's how Islam Kayupov, a 58-year-old plumber in the Uzbek capital, explained why he put an "X" on the ballot next to the name of President Shavkat Mirziyoev during the October 24 election that the incumbent won handily.

Kayupov was citing an old adage heard throughout Central Asia, where the region's autocrats usually stay in office for term after term or amend their country's constitution to extend their hold on power.

I couldn't vote for any of the others. This ones doing alright so far, Kayupov told RFE/RL over a steaming cup of green tea and a hot samsa meat pie.

Lack Of Real Choice

No one in Uzbekistan or abroad doubted that Mirziyoev would win the managed election, in which no genuine opposition candidates were allowed to run.

Russian President Vladimir Putin congratulated the 64-year-old former prime minister hours before the preliminary results -- which gave Mirziyoev 80 percent of the vote and an easy victory -- were announced on October 25.

His four rivals, including a woman, who finished second, were largely seen as nominal figures fielded to create the illusion of choice.

Even though Mirzoyoev is credited with bringing in sweeping economic reforms that have improved the living standards of many, observers say his attempt at a political thaw during his first term was too cautious to dismantle the autocratic model of government created by his predecessor, Islam Karimov.

Karimov's iron-fisted rule began before the 1991 Soviet collapse and ended only with his death in 2016.

Uzbekistan has never had free, democratic elections," Nadejda Atayeva, the France-based head of the Association for Human Rights in Central Asia, told RFE/RL. Understandably, the majority would vote for Mirziyoev, and this vote is not a choice. Its the [result of the] propagandistic influence of the current government and oligarchs.

The presidential elections were not as inclusive as one would have hoped for so many years after Karimov's death, Ivar Dale, a senior policy adviser with the Norwegian Helsinki Committee, a human rights watchdog, told RFE/RL.



With the result in the bag, voter turnout seemed to be the governments biggest concern.

Uzbeks were constantly reminded about the election, with the government declaring that almost 81 percent of eligible voters came to the polls.

But many Uzbeks were adamant that their vote didnt matter -- and some noted they had far more important matters to take care of.

Who should I vote for if the [state-run] kindergarten refuses to accept my [6-year-old] son? Abduvali, a construction worker in northern Tashkent, told RFE/RL. His mother had taken care of his two children before she died of COVID-19 in July. The [kindergartens] director wants $100 [in order to accept them].

Economic Breakthroughs

Kayupov said election officials visited his apartment seven times and stuffed endless pamphlets in his mailbox in order to prod him to vote. He insisted, however, that he needed no reminders or phony tributes on state television to convince him.



Born in Uzbekistan's Silk Road city of Samarkand, Kayupov fumed about Karimov's more than a quarter of a century in power.

Karimov, also born in Samarkand, neglected the city during his rule. Brownouts occurred constantly and some apartment buildings didn't have running water until recent years.

After coming to power in 1991, Karimov turned Uzbekistan into one of the worlds most authoritarian countries, with ruthless repression of the opposition, complete control of the media, and hefty allegations of state corruption among the first family.

They stole so much, Kayupov said about Karimov and his two notorious daughters.

One of them, Gulnara Karimova, was sentenced in 2020 to more than 13 years in jail for corruption and financial crimes.

It is so right that Gulnara is in jail now, Kayupov said.

Compared to Karimov, Kayupov called Mirziyoev a "peoples president."



Kayupov claims he has witnessed many improvements -- fixed roads, a children's playground built next to his apartment, a reduced official bureaucracy -- since Mirziyoev came to power five years ago.



And Uzbekistans economy joined the 21st century as countless ATMs sprung up throughout the country of some 36 million, Central Asia's most populous.

Hard currency has become more plentiful at banks in recent years and unlimited access to the Internet no longer costs a small fortune. Businesses have also been largely liberated from endless inspections and chaotic, contradictory regulations.

Seventy percent of the problems for businesses are gone, Abdumumin, who sells electronics at a brand new shopping mall in southern Tashkent, told RFE/RL, asking that his family name be withheld because of the remaining 30 percent."

Chronic Conundrums

Though Kayupov voted for Mirziyoev while professing a certain approval of his job as president, after several cups of tea and conversation he confessed that he wants to leave Uzbekistan.

A qualified plumber can make it anywhere in Russia, he said, and his sister already owns a small business in Moscow.

If I leave, I am not ever coming back, he said, admitting he would surely miss his three children and six grandchildren. No matter how you try here, you can never earn enough.



Kayupov would join the millions of Uzbek labor migrants who have flocked to Russia, neighboring oil-rich Kazakhstan, Turkey, South Korea, or even Europe seeking work because of the still-high rate of unemployment and low salaries in their home country.

Their exodus embodies the chronic problems Mirziyoev inherited from Karimov that went unfixed since the Soviet era.

Tens of thousands of kilometers of irrigation canals need repairs as water shortages and poor irrigation practices bred desertification and have decimated farmers' harvests.

Meanwhile, young people are pushed out of the overpopulated countryside into cities where there are no jobs, and Chinese exports undermine local production.

There are still chronic energy and heat shortages throughout the country, with predictions for worse conditions during the coming winter.

Mirziyoev abolished the draconian registration rules that prevented villagers from moving to cities, but police officers in Tashkent are still seen herding provincial youth into vans to search them under the pretext of identifying drug mules who deliver synthetic marijuana known as "spice."

The government is also limiting raw cotton and natural-gas exports to boost domestic textile and chemical industries -- but high birthrates make jobs scarce.

Mirziyoevs critics say his economic actions have not been trailblazing enough.

He made some moves, liberalized the economy somehow, but didn't conduct the deep, most necessary reforms, Nigara Khidouytova, who was forced out of Uzbekistan after forming the Free Farmers opposition party in the early 2000s, told RFE/RL.

The Norwegian Helsinki Committees Dale agreed.



Uzbekistan's reforms [under Mirziyoev] have been welcome, but far too slow-moving and not thorough enough, he said.

Welcome, perhaps, but not good enough to make Kayupov want to stay in the country.
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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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Salem - Joanne E. (Roulier) Bomarsi, 81, of Salem, passed away Tuesday morning, November 16, 2021 in Peabody. Born in Salem, MA, Joanne was the daughter of the late Lionel E. and Alice (Frasier) Roulier. A graduate of the former St. Chretienne Academy in Salem, Joanne worked for many years a
Followers of a Sufi religious order convened on a Moroccan village near the city of Nador for the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad in the first such gathering since the pandemic
Alvin Dunn Elementary School in San Marcos is getting new buildings, along with a new name, La Mirada Academy.

The word mirada, which means look in Spanish, represents the schools transformation from an older site to a modern campus, and from a K-6 elementary school to a K-8 combination school. The name will take effect at the beginning of the next school year, in conjunction with a total renovation of the campus.

Some of the rationale given was we want to look to the bright future of our students, Principal Jennifer Carter said.

The name selection involved input from students, staff and community members, she said.

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What was so exciting about La Mirada Academy... was that there were several people in all those categories that suggested that name, Carter said.

It also meets the districts criteria for school titles with geographic and cultural significance. La Mirada is the street the campus is located on.

It also is a Spanish name, Carter said. That was something unique in our community; we have a large Hispanic population. Were also an (International Baccalaureate) school and one of the languages that we teach is Spanish.

The school focuses on global and cultural awareness for primary grades, and is expanding that program into middle school as it rebuilds its campus.

With Proposition K funds from San Marcos 2010 bond measure, and state Proposition 51 education funds, the school will add 54 classrooms, a gymnasium, cafeteria, band room and library, and science, design and language labs. Now at about 820 students, it will grow to around 1,100, Carter said. Construction is underway and should wrap up in fall 2019.

Alvin M. Dunn  a banker, landowner and publisher -- provided the land for the school in 1956 to what was then the Rich-Mar Union School District, according to his obituary in the San Diego Union. Carter said the school will consider preserving that legacy by naming a feature of the new campus for Dunn.

The school also has new mascots, switching from dragons to wolves.

The rationale for wolves is that wolves travel in a pack, Carter said. Theyre a family. Theyre strong, theyre brave and they support one another.

deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan
An 88-year-old Holocaust survivor who went through six concentration camps is set to celebrate his bar mitzvah Nov. 19 at Chabad of Poway in what many call a historic moment.

Ben Midler was 13 and ready for his bar mitzvah, a Jewish coming of age ceremony, when he was taken from his family by Germans who invaded his home in the Polish city of Bialystok in 1941. He recalled that the Bialystok synagogue was burned down by Germans in June that year with 2,000 Jews inside.

After living in a ghetto for two years, Midler was taken to six concentration camps between the ages of 15 to 17. He still has the numbers printed on his arm.

Midler said he survived because he worked in the ghetto and did not associate with other kids, who it turned out, were sent to Auschwitz.

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In August 1943, Midler and 50,000 others were taken in six cattle cars  three went to Treblinka and three to Majdanek. When he got to the camps, he told the officer he was a presser, which he said saved his life because at that time the Germans were fighting the Russians and needed warm clothing to be made. They gathered about 200 men and women whom were tailors and the rest they killed on the spot.

Anytime they said they needed people to work, I said I am ready to go  this saved my life, said Midler, who lives in Rancho Bernardo and is author of The Life of A Child Survivor from Bialystok, Poland.

For someone who has lived through the Holocaust, and yet thanks G-d every day for the miracles G-d has done for him then and now, this is truly a celebration, not just for Ben Midler but the entire Jewish Nation, said Rabbi Mendel Goldstein, director of Chabad of Poway.

The event is at 10 a.m. at 16934 Chabad Way. Visit chabadpoway.com or call (858) 451-0455.
During the first week of school, a group of kindergartners at Adobe Bluffs School started the morning, as so many of the youngest students do, singing Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star.

This class, however, sang it in Mandarin Chinese, cheerfully belting out the lyrics with their teacher, Penny Wang. The 26 students are the first class to enter the schools Mandarin Immersion program, which will provide bilingual instruction in English and Mandarin, starting with the earliest grade.

Half the class consists of native English speakers, while the other half are what the school calls heritage speakers whose families communicate in Mandarin at home.

The philosophy is that the interaction with the students will elevate the language in English and in Mandarin, said Principal Eddie Park.

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The school had about 200 applicants for 26 positions, Park said, and interviewed families to determine their interest and commitment to the program. Among the students they enrolled are children learning a third language, whose families also speak Spanish, Korean, Russian or French at home.

Mandarin is the official language of China, the native tongue of roughly a billion people, and a key language of the Pacific Rim. Its a tonal language, where rising and falling tones impart different meanings to the same sounds. Those nuances are easiest to hear and pronounce for younger learners, so the earlier students start, the better, educators say. Adding the language to their education will enable these students to study internationally and afford them an advantage in college and beyond, Park said.

In business, its huge, he said. More and more, they have to be culturally sensitive and aware and efficient in order to understand the nuances when youre doing business.

Park started at Adobe Bluffs, in the Poway Unified School District, in 2015, and came to the campus from Barnard Asian Pacific Language Academy in the San Diego Unified School District, where he also served as principal and oversaw a Mandarin immersion program. Shortly after he took over at Adobe Bluffs, the school introduced Mandarin instruction through twice-a-week lessons in Chinese language and culture, with the goal of expanding to a full immersion program.

They reached that milestone this year, when the campus welcomed the first kindergarten class to begin the bilingual program.

Adobe Bluffs Elementary School in Poway kindergartner Jett Lo, center, joins his classmates in a Mandarin immersion program at the school Thursday. (Bill Wechter)

On Thursday morning, students stood on mats facing Wang, following as she schooled them in the Mandarin words for directions. Reaching toward the ceiling, she recited the word shang for up. Pointing toward the rug, she led them in repeating xia for down. The program involves little translation; students absorb the words through practice and context, much as they learned language as toddlers.

She tries very hard to make sure they are immersed in the language by not saying anything in English, Park said.

After recess, the students returned to trace Chinese characters for the words they had learned. When Park asked one of the English speakers, Conner Gardner, if he knew Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star, Conner confidently sang the tune in Mandarin after just a few days of practice. Later in the school day, theyll switch over to instruction in English, and will continue alternating between the languages every day throughout the year.

Adobe Bluffs Elementary School in Poway kindergartner Serena Tran works with Chinese characters during a Mandarin immersion program at the school Thursday. (Bill Wechter)

The first weeks of class will focus on establishing classroom routines, much as any kindergarten program would do, Wang said. In this case, however, theyll learn daily routines in both English and Mandarin. To that end, they practice the words for drinking fountain and bathroom, and sing another song that recites the parts of the face.

Theyll practice those really basic skills like how to sit down and stand up, Wang said.

After they settle into school, Wang and her co-teachers will start teaching them subject matter  math, social studies, science  in both languages. Theyll use the calendar to practice counting, and will complete social studies lessons on early social skills, Wang said.

In the first lesson on building community, we will understand how to be nice to each other, how to listen to each other and make new friends, Wang said.

This group, or cohort, of students, will progress through elementary school together, building their academic and language skills simultaneously. The rest of the schools classes will continue to study Mandarin through the twice-weekly lessons, but the immersion students will get an intensive course in the language.

By fifth grade, said Julie Li, the teacher on special assignment who coordinates the program, the immersion students should be able to read, write and converse proficiently in Mandarin. Park aims to develop sister school relationships with campuses in China and Taiwan, and to organize trips to those schools for students and families in the program.

The district also plans to add a Mandarin pathway that will continue through middle and high school, so they can continue to build those language skills throughout their education.

I am very proud that our students are having this opportunity to build our pathways, Park said.

deborah.brennan@sduniontribune.com Twitter@deborahsbrennan
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RICHMOND, Va. (AP)  Microsoft said Monday the same Russia-backed hackers responsible for the 2020 SolarWinds breach continue to attack the global technology supply chain and have been relentlessly targeting cloud service companies and others since summer.

The group, which Microsoft calls Nobelium, has employed a new strategy to piggyback on the direct access that cloud service resellers have to their customers' IT systems, hoping to more easily impersonate an organizations trusted technology partner to gain access to their downstream customers." Resellers act as intermediaries between giant cloud companies and their ultimate customers, managing and customizing accounts.

Fortunately, we have discovered this campaign during its early stages, and we are sharing these developments to help cloud service resellers, technology providers, and their customers take timely steps to help ensure Nobelium is not more successful, Tom Burt, a Microsoft vice president, said in a blog post.

The Biden administration downplayed Microsofts announcement. A U.S. government official briefed on the issue who insisted on anonymity to discuss the governments response noted that the activities described were unsophisticated password spray and phishing, run-of-the mill operations for the purpose of surveillance that we already know are attempted every day by Russia and other foreign governments.

The Russian Embassy did not immediately reply to a request for comment.

U.S. and Russian ties have already been strained this year over a string of high-profile ransomware attacks against U.S. targets launched by Russia-based cyber gangs. U.S. President Joe Biden has warned to Russian President Vladimir Putin to get him to crack down on ransomware criminals, but several top administration cybersecurity officials have said recently that they have seen no evidence of that.

Supply chain attacks allow hackers to steal information from multiple targets by breaking into a single product they all use. The U.S. government has previously blamed Russias SVR foreign intelligence agency for the SolarWinds hack, a supply-chain hack which went undetected for most of 2020, compromised several federal agencies and badly embarrassing Washington.

The hacking campaign is called SolarWinds after the U.S. software company whose product was used in that effort. The Biden administration in April placed new sanctions against six Russian companies that support the countrys cyber efforts in response to the SolarWinds hack.

Microsoft has been observing Nobeliums latest campaign since May and has notified more than 140 companies targeted by the group, with as many as 14 believed to have been compromised. The attacks have been increasingly relentless since July, with Microsoft noting that it had informed 609 customers that they had been attacked 22,868 times by Nobelium, with a success rate in the low single digits. Thats more attacks than Microsoft had flagged from all nation-state actors in the previous three years.

Russia is trying to gain long-term, systematic access to a variety of points in the technology supply chain and establish a mechanism for surveilling  now or in the future  targets of interest to the Russian government, Burt said.

Microsoft did not name any of the hackers targets in their latest campaign. But cybersecurity firm Mandiant said it had seen victims in both Europe and North America.

Mandiant Chief Technology Officer Charles Carmakal said the hackers' method of going after resellers make detection difficult.

It shifts the initial intrusion away from the ultimate targets, which in some situations are organizations with more mature cyber defenses, to smaller technology partners with less mature cyber defenses," he said.

___

AP Business Writer Matt Ott in Silver Spring, Maryland, contributed to this report.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP)  California has given away at least $20 billion to criminals in the form of fraudulent unemployment benefits, state officials said Monday, confirming a number smaller than originally feared but one that still accounts for more than 11% of all benefits paid since the start of the pandemic.

State officials blamed nearly all of that fraud on a hastily approved expansion of unemployment benefits by Congress that let people who were self-employed get weekly checks from the government with few safeguards to stop people from getting benefits who were not eligible to receive them.

I don't think people have captured in their mind the enormity of the amount of money has been issued errantly to undeserving people, said Assemblyman Tom Lackey, a Republican from Palmdale, who brought along an illustration of 29 dump trucks filled to the brim with $100 bills representing just over half of that money lost to fraud.

The pandemic ushered in widespread fraud at unemployment agencies across the country, with at least $87 billion in fraudulent payments approved by states, according to a June report from the inspector general's office at the U.S. Department of Labor. In Arizona alone, state officials said scammers pocketed nearly 30% of all its unemployment benefit payments.

In California, the fraud was so widespread that state officials OK'd at least $810 million in benefits in the names of people who were in prison, including dozens of infamous killers on death row. State officials even sent $21,000 in benefits to an address in Roseville under the name and Social Security number of U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein, some of the $2 million in total fraudulent payments that were sent to that same address.

But Gov. Gavin Newsom's administration on Monday sought to assure state lawmakers that the fraud pipeline in California has been closed. Employment Development Department Director Rita Saenz said the state has implemented new identity verification software that, along with other preventative measures, has stopped an estimated $120 billion in fraud attempts.

Saenz told lawmakers on Monday during an oversight hearing that 2020 was an anomaly, a criminal assault on the unemployment insurance program across the country."

We closed the door to that type of fraud last year," she said.

In January, state officials estimated the fraud could be as high as $31 billion. But Monday, state officials revised that down to $20 billion. The Newsom administration has hired former U.S. Attorney McGregor Scott to help prosecute scammers, with the department saying Monday investigations are ongoing.

But the department is still plagued with other problems. When people apply for unemployment benefits, sometimes the information they file with the state is different than what their former employer filed. When this happens, state officials have to interview these people to resolve those issues.

But people are having to wait up to six months for these interviews. Saenz called this delay unacceptable. But she said the state has a new policy that pays people their benefits while they wait, as long as they pass the state's fraud filters. Saenz said about half of the people waiting for interviews are being paid.

Things are not improving fast enough for some. There are still some challenges ahead, she said.

California has paid out more than $178 billion in unemployment benefits since the start of the pandemic based on 25.5 million total claims. Saenz said that's four times as much as the combined worst two years of the Great Recession a decade ago.

The sheer volume of claims overwhelmed the department, creating a massive backlog and making it nearly impossible to get an answer when people called the agency's call centers. In January, a state audit blasted the department for doing little to stop the fraud for the first four months of the pandemic, blaming the Newsom administration for significant missteps and inaction.

Monday, the auditor's office said the department had completed 13 of its 21 recommendations so far.

EDD has made notable progress in addressing areas of concern we found during our audits. But significant steps still need to be taken to address areas of risk, said Bob Harris, who managed the department's audit.

Saenz told lawmakers the department had not missed any of the auditor's deadlines to make changes. She said the department plans to finish hiring people for its newly formed fraud investigation unit by the end of November.

But other changes will take longer. The department is working on a new system that will deposit unemployment benefits directly to people's bank accounts instead of sending them check or debit card in the mail, which is more susceptible to fraud. But Saenz said this will take a few years to implement.

That delay upset some lawmakers, who said they were worried people were losing faith in their government.

When one of our government agencies fails this badly, I believe that it breaks the public trust, said Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, a Democrat from Laguna Beach.
NEW YORK (AP)  The National Labor Relations Board said there was sufficient interest to form a union at an Amazon distribution center in New York, after union organizers on Monday delivered hundreds of signatures to the agency  a key step in authorizing a vote that could establish the first union at the nation's largest online retailer.

This is the second unionizing attempt in the past year at Amazon. Workers in Alabama resoundingly defeated an effort earlier this year, but organizers there are asking federal officials for a do-over.

Organizers delivered more than 2,000 signed union-support cards to the NLRB's Brooklyn office after launching the effort in April. The specific number of signatures was not immediately available.

This is a small victory," said Christian Smalls, a former employee of the retail giant who now leads the fledgling Amazon Labor Union, adding, We know the fight has just started.

As part of its petition to hold a union vote, organizers must have submitted signatures from at least 30% from the roughly 5,500 employees who the union says work at four adjoining Amazon facilities that it seeks to represent under collective bargaining.

Mondays development puts the company on notice that the NLRB has determined that union organizers have met the minimum threshold for Amazon to formally acknowledge and to respond to the union-organizing petition. That means the company must post notices on its premises that the union is seeking to become the bargaining representative for thousands of Amazon workers on Staten Island.

The company could have several avenues to challenge the effort, including contesting the number of employees that union organizers used to calculate the minimum signatures they needed.

Were skeptical that a sufficient number of legitimate employee signatures has been secured to warrant an election," Amazon's spokesperson, Kelly Nantel, said in a statement.

If there is an election, we want the voice of our employees to be heard and look forward to it. Our focus remains on listening directly to our employees and continuously improving on their behalf, Nantel said.

While a vote is not yet certain, organizers hailed the formal filing of their petition as an important step to forming a union.

This was the easy part," Smalls said of the signature gathering. Convincing at least 50% of the workers to vote yes is the hard part.

Smalls says he was fired last year after organizing a walkout to protest working conditions, although Amazon said he repeatedly violated company policies.

NLRB staff members started counting the cards soon after they were delivered, and union organizers were confident that they had met the minimum necessary. They had planned a rally outside the Staten Island distribution center Monday evening.

Following the count, the NLRB ordered Amazon to provide a roster of employees who would be covered by the proposed union and set November 15 as the start of hearings on the union-organizing petition.

If an election is held, the NLRB said it will conduct voting by secret ballot. Smalls proposed that the election be held on March 30, the day he was fired.

If organizers in New York succeed, it could launch other union drives across the companys vast empire, which includes more than 100 fulfillment centers and nearly 1 million employees across the United States.

Amazon employees have complained about long work hours, insufficient breaks and safety, with Smalls and others likening working conditions to modern-day sweatshops. The employee turnover rate has also been a cause of concern.

The union efforts on Staten Island come as Amazon is on a hiring binge. It announced in September it wants to hire 125,000 delivery and warehouse workers and is paying new recruits an average of $18 an hour in a tight job market. Thats in addition to the 150,000 seasonal workers it plans to bring on for the holidays.

The Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union had led the effort to form a union at the Alabama facility that was defeated in April.

A hearing officer for the NLRB found in August that Amazon potentially interfered with the Alabama election. And the RWDSU is now waiting for a decision from an NLRB regional director to see whether the hearing officers guidance will be sanctioned. But even with a second election, labor experts say a union victory there is a long shot.

The New York City organizing drive is taking place without the support of a national union.
WASHINGTON (AP)  Relatives of more than two dozen American hostages and wrongful detainees held overseas told President Joe Biden in a letter on Monday that they questioned his administration's commitment to bringing their loved ones home.

In the letter, obtained by The Associated Press, the family members complained that the administration seemed to be getting bogged down in burdensome processes or policy debates that keep our loved ones from coming home and keep us uninformed of what you can and cannot do to help us.

We need to be shown that the promises of your administration to prioritize the return of our family members are not empty. Now is the time for action. Now we need you to bring our fellow Americans home, the letter states.

The letter reflects growing concerns within the hostage community that the Biden administration's foreign policy agenda does not prioritize the release of hostages, and that legal and political actions have complicated rather than advanced efforts to get captives released. In some cases, the letter to Biden asserts, the families feel as if they're in a worse situation now than eight months ago.

The U.S. withdrew from Afghanistan without bringing home Mark Frerichs, an American contractor abducted there in early 2020. Six American oil executives who'd been under house arrest in Venezuela were ordered back to jail this month following the extradition to the U.S. on corruption charges of a businessman who prosecutors say was a major conduit for corruption by President Nicolas Maduros inner circle.

The Biden team has been short on high-profile detainee and hostages releases so far. It was an area of keen interest to President Donald Trump, who in keeping with his unconventional approach to foreign policy appeared open to outside-the-box machinations with regard to hostage negotiations, such as a high-level but ultimately unsuccessful trip by administration officials to Damascus aimed at getting journalist Austin Tice home. He also invited American captives who'd been freed during his administration to appear with him at the 2020 Republican National Convention.

The families note in the letter that they were optimistic following a February call with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Since then, though, they say they have been unable to meet with Biden or with his national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, which leads us to believe that your administration is not prioritizing negotiations and other methods to secure their release.

When we do meet with other officials we feel we are being kept in the dark about what the U.S. government intends to do to free our loved ones, the letter says.

Asked about the letter, a White House National Security Council spokesperson said, The safe and prompt release of U.S. hostages and wrongful detainees will always be a top priority, never an afterthought, in all of our foreign policy decisions.

The letter was signed by family members of 26 American hostages and detainees held in countries across the world. That includes the mother of Trevor Reed, a Marine imprisoned in Moscow on charges of assaulting a police officer in Russia; the sister of Frerichs; and the wife of Jeffrey Woodke, an aid worker taken from his home in Niger in 2016.

We have heard a lot of positive talk about making Mark and the other cases a national priority, but we are not seeing actions to bring them home," Frerichs's sister, Charlene Cakora, said in a statement to the AP. "There are solutions for many of these cases  including my brothers, which could have been solved last summer  but we are not sensing any urgency on the part of the White House. For families, every second a loved one is kept detained is an eternity.

Others who signed include the families of nine Americans detained in Venezuela, who joined together more than a week ago in a separate critical letter of the White House approach to their cases.

The lack of urgency is especially troubling to the family of Jose Pereira, the former president of Houston-based CITGO, a subsidiary of Venezuelas state owned oil company. Over the weekend, Pereira was rushed from jail to a private clinic in Caracas for emergency treatment for a cardiac condition that his family says hasnt received medical treatment since his detention four years ago.

John Pereira said that although the Biden administration isnt to blame for his fathers arrest, he expected more from the new U.S. president.

Our feeling is that they can do more, said Pereira, who along with the families of eight other American detainees in Caracas sent their own letter to Biden a week ago urging U.S. officials to sit down and talk directly with Maduros government.

This goes beyond politics. Its a humanitarian issue. They have to sit down to talk.

____

Associated Press writer Joshua Goodman in Miami contributed to this report.

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Follow Eric Tucker on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/etuckerAP
SANDERSVILLE, Ga. (AP)  A judge ordered a split jury to keep seeking a unanimous verdict on Monday in the trial of three former Georgia sheriffs deputies accused of murdering an unarmed man by shocking him with stun guns by the side of a road.

Jurors sent Senior Judge H. Gibbs Flanders Jr. a note on Monday afternoon stating We have went over all the evidence and cannot come to a unanimous decision.

Flanders called the jurors into the courtroom and read them a special charge urging them to come to a unanimous decision, seeking to avoid a hung jury and a mistrial.

Your duty is to decide the issues that have been submitted to you, if you can conscientiously do so, Flanders said.

Prosecutors argued at trial that Henry Lee Copeland, Michael Howell and Rhett Scott had no reason to detain 58-year-old Eurie Martin in 2017. The defendants, all white, said the Black man was walking illegally down a road without sidewalks in the tiny town of Deepstep.

Martin had a history of schizophrenia and was walking for 30 miles to see relatives on a hot summer day when someone he asked for water called 911.

The defense also argued that some of the charges are defective because stun guns aren't lethal weapons. Evidence showed the deputies fired the electrical guns 15 times in a 5-minute period as they struggled to get Martin into handcuffs.

After hours of deliberations Friday, jurors sent a note asking what would happen if they couldn't agree on a verdict. Flanders replied then that it was too early to discuss that.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP)  A cyberattack crippled gas stations across Iran on Tuesday, leaving angry motorists stranded in long lines.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attack, which rendered useless the government-issued electronic cards that many Iranians use to buy subsidized fuel at the pump.

It bore similarities to another attack months earlier that seemed to directly challenge Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei as the country's economy buckles under American sanctions. Those economic problems worsen as the U.S. and Iran have yet to jointly re-enter Tehran's tattered nuclear deal with world powers.

State television quoted an unnamed official in the country's National Security Council acknowledging the cyberattack, hours after it aired images of long lines of cars waiting to fill up in Tehran. Associated Press journalists also saw lines of cars at Tehran gas stations, with the pumps off and the station closed.

I have been waiting a couple of hours for the gas stations to reopen so that I can fill up," said a motorcyclist who gave his name only as Farzin. "There is no fuel wherever I go.

The semiofficial ISNA news agency, which first called the incident a cyberattack, said it saw those trying to buy fuel with a government-issued card through the machines instead receive a message reading cyberattack 64411. Most Iranians rely on those subsidies to fuel their vehicles, particularly amid the country's economic problems.

While ISNA didn't acknowledge the number's significance, that number is associated with a hotline run through Khamenei's office that handles questions about Islamic law. ISNA later removed its reports, claiming that it too had been hacked. Such claims of hacking can come quickly when Iranian outlets publish news that angers the theocracy.

Farsi-language satellite channels abroad published videos apparently shot by drivers in Isfahan, a major Iranian city, showing electronic billboards there reading: Khamenei! Where is our gas? Another said: Free gas in Jamaran gas station, a reference to the home of the late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

State TV said Oil Ministry officials were holding an emergency meeting to solve the problem. Some gas stations that accept only cash and are not in the subsidy card network continued pumping fuel.

The use of the number 64411 mirrored an attack in July targeting Iran's railroad system that also saw the number displayed. Israeli cybersecurity firm Check Point later attributed the train attack to a group of hackers that called themselves Indra, after the Hindu god of war.

Indra previously targeted firms in Syria, where President Bashar Assad has held onto power through Iran's intervention in his country's grinding war.

Cheap gasoline is practically considered a birthright in Iran, home to the worlds fourth-largest crude oil reserves despite decades of economic woes.

Subsidies allow Iranian motorists to buy regular gasoline at 15,000 rials per liter. Thats 5 cents a liter, or about 20 cents a gallon. After a monthly 60-liter quota, it costs 30,000 rials a liter. Thats 10 cents a liter or 41 cents a gallon. Regular gasoline costs 89 cents a liter or $3.38 a gallon on average in the U.S., according to AAA.

In 2019, Iran faced days of mass protests across some 100 cities and towns over gasoline prices rising. Security forces arrested thousands and Amnesty International said it believes 304 people were killed in a government crackdown. Tuesday's cyberattack came in the same month in the Persian calendar as the gasoline protests in 2019.

The attack also came on the birthday of the late Shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi who, stricken with cancer, fled the country in 1979 just before the Islamic Revolution.

Iran has faced a series of cyberattacks, including one that leaked video of abuses at its notorious Evin prison in August.

The country disconnected much of its government infrastructure from the internet after the Stuxnet computer virus  widely believed to be a joint U.S.-Israeli creation  disrupted thousands of Iranian centrifuges in the countrys nuclear sites in the late 2000s.

___

Follow Jon Gambrell on Twitter at www.twitter.com/jongambrellAP.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  Dozens of North Carolina residents said Monday that Republicans should shelve proposed congressional district maps that they said would likely give the GOP the most seats for the foreseeable future while needlessly fracturing the state's largest counties.

Republicans and Democrats have spent the past few weeks creating separate redistricting maps. During the first of two days of public hearings on them, speakers criticized GOP proposals that could make at least 10 of the state's 14 U.S. House districts favorable to Republican candidates. Republicans currently hold an 8-5 advantage in the state's congressional ranks, but the state will get another member through at least 2032 due to population gains recorded by the 2020 census.

Maps most favorable to Republicans would split predominantly Democratic Mecklenburg and Wake counties among at least three districts, some of which would spill into more conservative and rural surrounding counties, thereby making it harder for Democrats to win.

This is not fair, since North Carolina is a half-and-half state with the two parties," Kathy Wheeler of Guilford County told redistricting committee members at the Legislative Building. The maps proposed by Republican members dilute Democratic votes and deprive communities of effective representation.

Several speakers complained that some plans also would split Guilford County, currently represented by Democrat Kathy Manning, into as many as three districts.

Democrats have offered congressional maps that would give their party a better chance to win six or seven seats, which they say aligns with electoral results for statewide races that are usually decided by a few percentage points. Republicans, who have controlled the General Assembly since 2011, have performed well in North Carolina federal races, not losing a U.S. Senate race since 2008.

House committee Chairman Destin Hall of Caldwell County said after the hearing that GOP leaders are staying away from making decisions based on electoral outcomes.

Hearing participants also criticized GOP redistricting committee leaders for preventing the use of racial data in drawing districts. Democrats and allied civil rights advocates argue that without such data lawmakers are unable to protect Black voters from being disenfranchised in a map plan.

Being colorblind does not equate to being racially just. In fact, it can mean just the opposite, said Phyllis Demko with the League of Women Voters of North Carolina. She added that it's obvious legislators know where minority voters live and how they vote.

Andy Jackson of the conservative John Locke Foundation was one of only a couple of the roughly 30 speakers at Mondays first session who seemed generally pleased with legislators, in particular for mapmaking criteria that he said ensures racial considerations do not predominate in designating districts.

The House and Senate redistricting committees scheduled an in-person and an online-only hearing both Monday and Tuesday to collect feedback on proposed General Assembly districts. Each in-person hearing in Raleigh also had two remote sites. Mondays other locales were in Wilmington and Lenoir, with Greenville and Charlotte on Tuesday.

The hearings are the next step before the legislature begins voting on the plans. The legislature hopes by early November to approve new maps that will apply to elections starting next year. Candidate filing for the 2022 election begins Dec. 6.

With Republican majorities in both the state House and Senate and redistricting maps exempt from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper's veto stamp, Republicans are likely to get their way unless litigation blocks them.

Senate Minority Leader Dan Blue of Wake County said Democrats in his chamber want to meet with Republicans to express their concerns and seek what they consider a fair plan. But without real serious negotiations on all aspects of these maps that lead to consensus, Blue told reporters Monday, short of a lawsuit, there are very few other things left to do.
MOUNT OLIVE, N.C. (AP)  A North Carolina man has been arrested in a fatal shooting that stemmed from an argument, a sheriffs office said Monday.

The Duplin County Sheriffs Office said in a news release that deputies responded to a location in the Mount Olive area late Sunday night. The news release said Juan Manuel Martinez Nava and Oscar Ruben Zamudio Rivera were involved in an argument that turned physical, during which time a gun that Nava was holding went off and struck Rivera in the head, killing him.
FRANKFURT, Germany (AP)  A senior energy adviser to U.S. President Joe Biden urged Russia to supply more natural gas to Europe now rather than wait for approval of a newly completed pipeline, saying Monday that they should do it quickly to ward off the risk of severe gas shortages this winter.

Amos Hochstein, Biden's senior adviser for global energy security, said the natural gas crunch in Europe had multiple causes, including strong demand for gas in China. But he said Russia had enough gas to increase sales now rather than wait for European Union and German authorities to give final regulatory approval to the Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which brings gas across the Baltic Sea directly to Europe and bypasses Poland and Ukraine.

They can increase upstream production, they should do it, they should do it quickly, and they should supply it through the existing pipelines, Hochstein told journalists in an online briefing from Washington. If Russia has the gas to supply Nord Stream 2, as they suggest, that means they have the gas to supply it through the Ukrainian GTS (gas transit system) or other pipelines as well, so they should do that.

Natural gas prices in Europe  which imports 90% of its supply, largely from Russia  are five times higher than at the start of the year. Reserves depleted last winter were not sufficiently refilled during the warm months to calm concerns about shortages during the winter heating season.

Russia's state-controlled Gazprom has continued to supply gas to European customers under its long-term contracts but has not increased supply on the spot market even as prices have skyrocketed.

Some analysts and political figures have accused Russia of holding back gas supplies to pressure European authorities into speeding up final approval of the new pipeline, which could take months. Analysts do not expect Nord Stream 2 to help relieve Europe's gas crunch until sometime next year.

Hochstein repeated a warning from September that a lack of gas and heat could cost lives in the most vulnerable communities if the coming winter is colder than usual. He said the crisis that we are facing is not just about money and higher prices, it was something that literally endangered lives.

The U.S. opposed the pipeline, saying it increased Europe's energy dependence on Russia, and it is opposed by both Poland and Ukraine over energy security concerns. Ukraine could lose transit fees if gas that otherwise would have gone through Ukraine's pipeline system passes through Nord Stream 2 instead.

The Biden administration dropped efforts to block it with sanctions once it was almost complete, instead striking a deal with Germany that they would take action against Russia if it used gas as a weapon against Ukraine and that Germany would help fund Ukraine's transition to green energy.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said the pipeline is purely commercial."
The Mukilteo couple once put up a billboard in a desperate effort to find whoever stabbed their 23-year-old son to death in Pioneer Square.

They felt relief when two men were arrested and thought justice was theirs when juries convicted them. They thought it was over.

But yesterday, Rod and Lorraine Jones were back in a King County Superior courtroom again for the murder trial of Darrell Everybodytalksabout, who was granted a new trial by the state Supreme Court because of evidence concerns.

"I'll go back as many times as I have to," Lorraine Jones said yesterday, after telling the latest jury about losing a son she adored.

Relatives of Everybodytalksabout, too, are pinning hopes on the trial's outcome. His family, including a sister and brother-in-law who are ministers in Yakima, have stood by him for years and will come to the Seattle courtroom when they can.

"They believe in his innocence and have been very loyal," said defense attorney Jackie Walsh, who contends there's no evidence that Everybodytalksabout killed anyone.

Rigel Brett Jones had been showing around a new girlfriend from Texas and somehow became separated from her in the wee hours of Feb. 4, 1996, in the crowds of Pioneer Square.

The Redmond High School graduate's body was found next to his red pickup truck, its engine running, after 4 a.m. His favorite green jacket, wallet and pager were gone.

Prosecutors say Everybodytalksabout and another man, Phillip Lara Lopez, both transients, had been drinking, ran into Jones and decided to see whether he had any money.

Calvo said Lopez's girlfriend saw the start of a confrontation among Everybodytalksabout, Lopez and Jones -- and that Lopez later had blood on his hands.

A man who once served time in prison with Everybodytalksabout is also expected to testify that the man told him all about killing Jones.

But Walsh said there's simply no evidence that points to her client -- no murder weapon, not a trace left at the crime scene, not a single witness.

Years ago, Jones' parents were frustrated by the lack of leads and put up a billboard in Pioneer Square offering a $10,000 reward. It had a picture of their son looking over a shoulder, and the words, "Were you here when I was murdered?"

Everybodytalksabout was convicted of first-degree murder in 1997 and sentenced to 27 years in prison. But last year, the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that a police detective's testimony against him should not have been admissible -- and that there wasn't enough evidence to convict him without it.

Lopez is serving 37 years.
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The parade of storms that blasted California over the past week marked a strong start to the rainy season. Some parts of the state, including Napa, Santa Rosa and Sacramento, received half the rain in 24 hours that they got in all of the past year.

But with California locked in one of its worst droughts in modern history, and some areas short two years worth of water, a lot more wet weather is needed to mend the states water woes.

The long-term forecast calls for more dry conditions across much of California in the months ahead. Climate scientists are watching a La Nina weather pattern emerge in the tropical Pacific, which can push the storm track to the north and divert needed rain from the state during the crucial wet season. This would make it even harder for California to get the above-average precipitation required to put an end to the drought.

Pretty much everyone in my neighborhood was watching their Halloween decorations wash away this weekend, said Dave Rizzardo, a hydrology manager for the California Department of Water Resources. Its easy to think were out of the drought now, but this storm is clearing out. Its not going to rain much more this week and possibly beyond that.

The past two years have been two of the driest in a century, a situation exacerbated by record warm temperatures that have further choked the brown and brittle landscape. California saw one of its worst fire seasons this year, with nearly 2.5 million acres burned, in part because of the drought. Meanwhile, dwindling water supplies have prompted restrictions on drawing water in many watersheds, hitting the agricultural industry especially hard. Some cities and towns, many in the North Bay, have also faced cutbacks, though no statewide reductions have been ordered by the governor.

In the northern Sierra, where precipitation is vital because its big reservoirs provide much of the states water, up to a foot of rain fell in the past few days. The quantity is impressive, helping Lake Oroville, one of the largest reservoirs, swell 100,000 acre-feet, or more than 10% its current volume, even before all of the runoff was counted. In some mountain areas, rainfall totals were 20% of what typically falls in a year.

This year, however, officials at the Department of Water Resources say the northern Sierra will need much more than average precipitation  perhaps 140% to 150%  to bring water supplies back to average, or at least close.

Average doesnt pull us out of this drought, Rizzardo said Were trying to make up for several years. Theres still a long way to go.

As of Sunday night, Lake Oroville was at only 25% of capacity, or about 41% of where it typically stands at this point in the year. Shasta Lake, the only reservoir that is bigger than Oroville, was just 22% full, holding about 37% of what it typically holds on this date.

The latest reservoir levels dont reflect the entire fallout of the storms. It can take two to three days for the rain to run down hills and creeks into the lakes.

While most of the Bay Area relies on Sierra reservoirs for water, the North Bay remains an exception. Like the Sierra, the North Bay gets its supply from local rivers and lakes that fill with rain, and similarly, water agencies in Marin, Sonoma and Napa counties were reporting healthy inflows but only a fraction of whats necessary to fill their deficits.

Over the past year, some communities in the North Bay have mandated water restrictions of 40%. In Marin County, local leaders have begun allocating millions toward the construction of an 8-mile pipeline across the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge with the hope of importing water.

Theres still a tremendous amount of rain needed, said Brad Sherwood, assistant general manager for the Sonoma Water agency, which delivers water to communities in Sonoma and Marin counties.

Lake Mendocino, one of Sonoma Waters two primary reservoirs in the Russian River watershed, added a third of its volume over the past week. However, the lake remained less than 15% full.

The heavy rain Sunday and Monday capped a weeklong siege of on-and-off wet weather in California, Oregon and Washington from the Pacific. The train of storms was largely triggered by a bomb cyclone, an area of rapidly decreasing low pressure, that pushed the systems ashore, including a Category 5 atmospheric river over the weekend.

An atmospheric river is a giant plume of moisture that generally wrings out when it makes landfall. Similar to hurricanes, the intensity of the systems is measured on a 1 to 5 scale.

In addition to widespread flooding and mudslides in areas that recently burned in wildfires, especially in and around the scar of the northern Sierras Dixie Fire, the atmospheric river drove many record 24-hour precipitation totals.

Downtown San Francisco received 4.02 inches of rain on Sunday, the highest daily total ever for October, according to the National Weather Service. Sacramento reported 5.44 inches, the most ever recorded in a 24-hour period there.

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.

Also over the weekend, the city of Napa recorded a 24-hour rainfall total of 5.35 inches and Santa Rosa recorded a 7.83-inch 24-hour period. Both totals were more than half the amount of rain that fell during the past water year, from Oct. 1, 2020, to Sept. 30, 2021, according to the weather service.

Most of the wet system moved out of Northern California on Monday with a few patches of rain possible Tuesday, forecasters said.

Afterward, the forecast is calling for a much drier pattern, said National Weather Service meteorologist Brayden Murdock. It doesnt mean things are going to dry out, but its going to be a lot calmer.

The weather services Climate Prediction Center reported last week that a developing La Nina could mean dry weather for California and parts of the West through winter. This is when the region gets the bulk of its precipitation.

A La Nina, which is marked by below-average sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific, tends to move the jet stream north, meaning crucial rains could miss California, particularly the southern end. Not all La Ninas mean the same thing, however. Some have brought wetter-than-normal weather.

Gov. Gavin Newsom last week expanded the states drought emergency to the entire state, a largely symbolic move that did not go as far as enacting mandatory cuts like the drought declaration last decade. In July, the governor asked Californians to reduce water use 15%, though residents have so far pared back just 3.5%.

Newsom has said that he would consider a mandate if more people dont comply and weather conditions dont get better.

Kurtis Alexander is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kalexander@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @kurtisalexander
San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin expressed deep gratification Tuesday at the news that his father, David Gilbert, was granted parole after serving four decades in a New York state prison for his part in a fatal Brinks robbery in 1981 when he was a member of the radical Weather Underground.

I am so grateful to the Parole Board and to everyone who has supported my father during his more than 40 years in prison, said Boudin in a statement after getting the news at his San Francisco home. Im thinking about the other children affected by this crime and want to make sure that nothing I do or say further upsets the victims families. Their loved ones will never be forgotten. And I am thinking of the other people inside who have worked so hard to transform their lives and hope one day to return home.

Gilbert, 76, was granted parole two months after former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo commuted his sentence of 75 years to life for his conviction on felony murder and robbery charges, the state corrections department confirmed Tuesday. He is serving his sentence at Shawangunk Correctional Facility in Ulster County, N.Y., and will be able to leave the facility next month, the Associated Press reported.

Gilbert, along with Chesa Boudins mother, Kathy Boudin, were members of the radical leftist organization Weather Underground. On Oct. 20, 1981, they joined members of the Black Liberation Army in the botched robbery of a Brinks armored truck in New York.

Other members of the group shot and killed a Brinks guard, Peter Paige, before killing two Nyack police officers, Waverly Brown and Edward OGrady. Boudin, now 41, was 14 months old at the time.

In statement to the The Chronicle upon first hearing the news of the clemency in August, Boudin said he was overcome with emotion, noting that the clemency came on the eve of his first childs birth.

My heart is bursting, and it also aches for the families of the three victims, he said at the time.

Gilbert and Kathy Boudin were unarmed getaway drivers. They were charged and convicted under New Yorks felony murder law, holding that all participants in a felony that leads to a death can be charged with murder even if they were not directly responsible for the killings.

Gilbert was convicted in 1983 of three counts of second-degree murder and four counts of first-degree robbery. Kathy Boudin was paroled in 2003.

Chesa Boudin later said that although Gilbert never used a gun or intended for anyone to get hurt, my fathers crime caused unspeakable harm and devastated the lives of many separate families.

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.

Boudin is facing a recall election for his controversial leanings as district attorney, and Tuesdays news drew new criticism from recall organizers.

Granting of parole is clearly an abuse of Chesas position and power to win the release of his notorious father, said Richie Greenberg of the Committee Supporting the Recall of D.A. Chesa Boudin. We have been watching this unfold, culminating in Chesas recent letter to the parole board requesting clemency. It is astounding and a slap in the face for the victims of this crime.

Late last week, the recall campaign filed 83,000 signatures, 23,000 more than required. If the signatures are validated, the recall election will be called as soon as March.

Sam Whiting is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: swhiting@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @samwhitingsf
California lawmakers on Monday grilled the agency that pays unemployment benefits about its progress in addressing major problems pinpointed in two withering reports from the state auditor released early this year.

The Employment Development Departments deficiencies were cast into stark relief when the pandemic hit, throwing millions of people out of work and causing a deluge of claims that overwhelmed the agency.

The pandemic clearly demonstrated that safety-net programs like EDD need long-overdue structural reforms, said Assemblywoman Wendy Carrillo, D-Los Angeles, chair of the Budget Subcommittee on State Administration, which was one of two conveners of a Sacramento hearing on EDD that was partially conducted virtually.

As the auditors reports said  and thousand of frustrated Californians experienced  EDDs phone lines were clogged, its claims processing was slow, and it paid out some $20 billion to fraudsters.

When one of our government agencies fails this badly ... it erodes peoples faith in government, said Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris, D-Laguna Beach (Orange County), chair of the Assembly Accountability and Administrative Review Committee, the other co-convener.

Elaine Howle, the California state auditor, said EDD had made notable progress in addressing concerns uncovered during the audit, but it needs to continue to follow through. Some is on pace; some is a little too slow, she said, noting that EDD has a legacy computer system that requires slow chipping away to change.

EDD Director Rita Saenz, who took over as head of the agency in January, said its addressed more than two-thirds of the auditors recommendations and is continuing to work on them.

In the fraud area, those include creating a unit to address fraud instead of having to have six different divisions coordinate. It will be fully staffed by the end of November, she said. It already has set up a way for victims of identity theft to contact it, and worked with Bank of America, which administers the debit cards used to pay benefits, on unfreezing as appropriate accounts that were frozen because of suspicion of fraud.

Language access for the millions of Californians who are not native English speakers is improving with expanded language lines and more translations of forms, she said, but it will take until late January for expanded language staff to be fully trained.

For claims processing, changes include a workload plan to prioritize deferred work; a public dashboard with statistics on its claims handling; and identifying which IT improvements can be implemented quickly.

At the call center, it has added a way for claimants to request a callback instead of waiting on hold, and tracked and analyzed reasons why claimants call for assistance.

Still, the call center remains a challenge, Saenz said, saying its not improving fast enough. Like call centers in private industry, it has a 30% annual staff turnover. New recruits need four months of training.

Another big issue: There is a 26-week wait for claimants who need a determination interview to assess their qualification for benefits. Most claimants can be processed quickly without those interviews  85% are paid within one week of certifying for benefits, but thats no comfort to the people who are waiting, she said.

And still another remaining problem, as Assemblyman Rudy Salas, D-Bakersfield, pointed out: There are still almost 140,000 backlogged claims that have been pending for 21 days or more.

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.

Saenz said the agency is working on its IT system in phases, but it will take a couple of years more to be fully modernized.

It will take a few months to develop a request for proposal for a vendor to offer direct-deposit benefits and then a couple of years for that to be in place, she said  a pace that the lawmakers found ironic in a state thats a technology leader.

Some EDD reforms came courtesy of lawmakers, who pushed through legislative fixes, including requiring it to develop a recession plan based on lessons learned (SB390), requiring it to check benefits claims against prison rolls to prevent fraud (AB110), and requiring it to regularly assess its fraud tools (AB138).

Many of the EDDs problems were identified by the auditor and the public more than a decade ago after the past recession, but were not fully addressed by the agency, Petrie-Norris said.

How do we make sure they follow through and actually implement the changes to ensure this is the last time we deal with this fiasco? she said.

Carolyn Said is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: csaid@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @csaid
To help pay for his big economic and social agenda, President Joe Biden is looking to go where the big money is: billionaires.

Biden never endorsed an outright wealth tax when he campaigned for the White House last year. But his more conventional proposed rate increases on the income of large corporations and the wealthiest Americans have hit a roadblock.

That leaves a special tax on the assets, not the income, of billionaires being proposed by a Senate Democrat as a possible way to help pay for child care, universal prekindergarten, child tax credits, family leave and environmental initiatives.

Biden has pledged that his programs will not add a penny to the deficit, which means selling to Congress and voters a tax on the wealthiest .0005% of Americans. Some details on the proposed billionaires tax:

HOW WOULD IT WORK?

Essentially, billionaires earn the bulk of their money off their wealth. This might be from the stock market. It could include, once sold, beachfront mansions or the ownership of rare art and antiquities. A triceratops skeleton.

This new tax would apply solely to people with at least $1 billion in assets or $100 million in income for three straight years. These standards mean that just 700 taxpayers would face the additional tax on increases to their wealth, according to a description obtained by The Associated Press of the proposal of by the chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, Sen. Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

On tradeable items such as stocks, billionaires would still pay a tax even if they held on to the asset. They would be taxed on any increases in value and take deductions on losses. Under current law, those assets get taxed only when they are sold.

Billionaires would also face an additional tax on nontradeable assets such as real estate and business interests once those assets are sold. During the first year of the proposed tax, the billionaires would also owe taxes on any built-in gains that predate the tax.

HOW MUCH MONEY WOULD IT RAISE?

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., estimated on CNN Sunday that the tax would raise $200 billion to $250 billion. This is a meaningful sum, but it's well shy of the nearly $2 trillion in proposed additional spending over 10 years being negotiated right now. This means that additional levies such as the global minimum tax and increased enforcement dollars for the IRS would still be needed to help close the gap.

And the forecasts for revenue from the wealth tax are highly debatable.

Its just impossible to implement, said Allison Schrager, a senior fellow at the conservative Manhattan Institute. Theres a lot of evidence that these things dont work, and Ive never heard an explanation of how this could be workable.

WHY WOULD BIDEN GO THIS ROUTE?

The president would rather raise corporate tax rates and rates on wealthy individuals. That was his initial proposal, but he's got to appease Sens. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va., and Kyrsten Sinema, D-Ariz. Those are the two make-or-break Democratic votes in the evenly split Senate.

Sinema objected to higher rates, which brought the wealth tax into play as an alternative.

The idea gained steam after the publication of French economist Thomas Piketty's book Capital in the Twenty-First Century. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., made a 2% wealth tax a trademark policy in the 2020 presidential primaries, and fellow candidate Bernie Sanders, the senator from Vermont, proposed his own wealth tax.

Biden never jumped on that bandwagon. But he did make higher taxes on the wealthy a key promise, saying no one earning less than $400,000 would pay more.

IS A WEALTH TAX CONSTITUTIONAL?

If a wealth tax were to become law, it probably would be challenged in court.

The likely case comes from Article 1, Section 2 of the Constitution. It states that direct Taxes shall be apportioned among the several States which may be included within this Union, according to their respective Numbers. What does that mean? It means that revenues from "direct taxes must reflect the population of the states, which is a problem because billionaires tend to cluster in places such as California and New York.

If that's the case, how does the federal government charge income and payroll taxes? That's because of the 16th Amendment. It allows Congress to lay and collect taxes on incomes, from whatever source derived, without apportionment among the several States. So what really matters is whether the Supreme Court would interpret a wealth tax as a direct tax on property that is unconstitutional or whether it's essentially a tax on income that is permissible.

ARE BILLIONAIRES REALLY THAT RICH?

Seems that way.

There is a legitimate debate about the optimal forms of taxation. Is it better for the economy for the wealthy to keep their assets invested in new businesses? Or is it better for some of their money to go to the government to help pay for programs such as child care, universal pre-K and shifts to renewable energy?

What is clear is that the wealthy do have money to tax, should the government wish to do it.

America's billionaires have seen their collected wealth surge 70% since the start of the pandemic to more than $5 trillion, according to an analysis by the pro-wealth-tax Americans for Tax Fairness and the Institute for Policy Studies Program on Inequality. That gain from March 18, 2020, to this past month is equal in size to Biden's spending plans over 10 years.

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Right now, billionaires are not paying a dime in taxes on their fabulous income gains from their stock holdings during the pandemic, said Frank Clemente, executive director of Americans for Tax Fairness. The billionaires income tax would tax the increase in the value of those assets each year just like workers wages are taxed."

There were 614 U.S. billionaires at the start of the pandemic; the total has now grown to 745.

Part of what makes the coronavirus unique is that many poorer Americans also became wealthier, but they did so at a much slower pace than billionaires.

Federal Reserve data indicate that the net worth of the bottom 90% of Americans  a group that includes the middle class  rose by roughly 22%. For many Americans, the wealth increase reflected a rising stock market, higher home values and unprecedented government aid in the form of direct checks and forgivable payroll loans to small businesses.

CAN BILLIONAIRES ESCAPE TAXATION?

They've found ways before.

They can hire armadas of lawyers, accountants and others to minimize their tax burdens. The news outlet ProPublica revealed various tax shelters with IRS data earlier this year, and the recent Pandora Papers showed there is a global industry to shelter the assets of the politically powerful and extremely wealthy.

The ProPublica investigation showed that Warren Buffett paid an average rate of 19%. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos paid 23%, while Tesla's Elon Musk was at roughly 30%. The top tax rate on income earned from labor is 37%, but the tax on capital gains is a lower 20% and that favors those with extreme wealth. The lower capital gains rate can also encourage more investment in new companies that help the economy grow.

A White House analysis in September indicated the country's 400 wealthiest families paid an average federal income tax rate of 8.2% between 2010 and 2018. The administration's fundamental message is that a rate this low is unfair because middle class families often pay a greater share of their income in taxes.

The bottom-line question for Democratic lawmakers is how to close or at least narrow the escape hatches for those with extreme wealth. It could require calculations such as the deferral recapture amount and other technicalities that are likely to baffle most of America. But the writing of the tax law and its enforcement will determine just how successful a wealth tax would be  and perhaps the fate of Biden's big agenda as well.

___

Associated Press writer Will Weissert contributed to this report.
San Franciscos sole In-N-Out is under investigation again after reports that diners have been allowed to eat inside  which would be a violation of a health department directive to stay closed indoors until the restaurant agrees to check customers vaccine cards.

The San Francisco Department of Public Health is investigating In-N-Out at Fishermans Wharf after receiving a complaint that the restaurant was letting customers eat inside, despite being permitted only for takeout and outdoor dining following violations of the citys indoor vaccine mandate. Eater SF first reported the investigation, which was confirmed by the health department.

In-N-Out did not respond to a question about whether people have been allowed to eat indoors at the San Francisco location. Spokesperson Kathleen Luppi said all orders are being packaged for takeout there and signs have been posted at the doors and at every table to communicate that the restaurant is closed for indoor dining. The restaurant has not been cited, she said, for serving people indoors.

The popular burger chain drew national attention  both condemnation and praise, including the latter from former vice president Mike Pence  for defying San Franciscos vaccine requirement for indoor dining, which the company called unreasonable, invasive, and unsafe. The health department shut the Jefferson Street restaurant down for several days on Oct. 14 after issuing repeated warnings for not checking customers vaccine cards. It reopened last week, In-N-Out said at the time, for takeout and outdoor dining only.

The health department declined to say whether In-N-Out could be shut down again. They are investigating further and will take next steps to address any observed violations, according to a statement provided to The Chronicle.

In-N-Outs Pleasant Hill location was also shut down this week for failing to check vaccination cards despite Contra Costa Countys indoor vaccine mandate. The burger spot posed an immediate health hazard, the Contra Costa County health department said.

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

San Francisco, Berkeley and Contra Costa County are the only Bay Area agencies currently with indoor vaccine requirements for businesses such as restaurants. Indoor dining is known to be one of the riskiest activities for the spread of the virus, and some health experts say that asking for proof at restaurants can be one of the keys to improving public health. Vaccination against COVID-19 is the most effective way to prevent infection and reduce the spread of the disease, according to health experts.

San Franciscos indoor vaccine requirement went into effect in late August. Since September, the health department has received 11 complaints about restaurants not checking for vaccination proof. In-N-Out is the only restaurant thats been temporarily shut down as a result.

This story has been updated with comment from In-N-Out.

Elena Kadvany is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: elena.kadvany@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @ekadvany
A key federal advisory panel was expected to recommend Tuesday afternoon that children ages 5 to 11 be eligible for vaccination against COVID-19, a move kicking off a regulatory path that could see kids getting their first shots as early as next week.

The Food and Drug Administrations advisory committee meeting was set for 5:30 a.m. Pacific time to discuss emergency authorization of the Pfizer vaccine for the age group. A vote was expected by 2 p.m. The FDA generally goes along with its advisory panels decisions.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is scheduled to take up the matter next week on Tuesday and Wednesday, after which health care providers may begin administering the shots to these younger children, assuming federal officials authorize them. Given that children likely will receive two doses of the vaccine three weeks apart, the first kids to get it would be fully vaccinated by December.

Since this all started, as pediatricians weve been clamoring, What about the kids? Finally our turn is coming, and we are elated, said Dr. Jenna Holmen, a pediatric infectious disease expert at UCSF. She said ideally the children would have been able to be fully vaccinated before Halloween trick-or-treating, but Thanksgiving and Christmas are huge, because kids could be protected for holiday travel and large, multigenerational family gatherings.

In a report released by the FDA on Friday, federal analysts appeared to support authorization of the vaccine for 5- to 11-year-olds based on the safety and efficacy data collected so far.

Clinical trials of the Pfizer vaccine have found it to be about 91% effective in preventing COVID in the 5-to-11 age group. Children that age mounted an immune response from the vaccine that was similar to older children and teens, studies found. In trials, the children were given doses a third of the size given to adults and older kids; the FDA would authorize that smaller dose.

The main question before the advisory panel on Tuesday was whether the potential risks of the two-dose vaccine regimen outweigh the benefits. Studies showed similar side effects in younger children as in older kids and adults, including headache, fever, fatigue and muscle pain, plus pain at the injection site.

There were no serious negative outcomes reported in clinical trials. But federal authorities are wary of potential rare, serious side effects  in particular myocarditis or pericarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle or lining  that have occurred in older children and adults. The myocarditis is of concern because a handful of cases have occurred in teens and young adults, mostly males, after vaccination.

Though no cases of myocarditis were found in clinical trials, those studies looked at only about 3,000 children post-vaccination. Its possible the complication is so rare that cases will show up only once millions of children are vaccinated.

The hottest topic (at Tuesdays meeting) is going to be discussing the myocarditis risk, Holmen said. Im very reassured by the data Ive seen so far. I think (the FDA) is being very careful. They certainly dont want to risk releasing something thats unsafe. Theyre being very thoughtful and thorough in their process.

The FDA, in its review of the Pfizer data, considered several models to determine if the risk of myocarditis due to vaccination was greater than the risk of serious COVID disease for not vaccinating, and found that in almost all scenarios the benefits of vaccination outweighed the risks.

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In one scenario, with very low community transmission of the coronavirus, there could be more cases of children hospitalized with vaccine-induced myocarditis than children hospitalized with COVID. But the FDA analysts noted that hospitalization for COVID is generally much more serious than for myocarditis.

The overall benefits of the vaccine may still outweigh the risks under this low-incidence scenario, the analysts wrote in an FDA report. They also used a conservative model that assumed higher-than-expected rates of myocarditis. If the myocarditis/pericarditis risk in this age group is lower than the conservative assumption used in the model, the benefit-risk balance would be even, according to the report.

The FDA panel was scheduled to begin voting on the authorization at noon Tuesday and reach a decision by 2 p.m. The meeting can be watched online.

On Monday, drugmaker Moderna released safety and efficacy data for its vaccine for children ages 6 to 11. Clinical trials have found the vaccines, given at half the dosage administered to adults and older kids, resulted in a strong immune response and no serious side effects. The company plans to ask for emergency authorization for the 6-to-11 age group in the near term, according to a Moderna release.

The youngest children  those ages 6 months to 4 years  are expected to be considered for vaccination toward the end of the year and may be eligible early next year.

Erin Allday is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: eallday@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @erinallday
CRENSHAW, Miss. (AP)  Authorities were searching for suspects Monday after shootings killed two people and wounded three at an apartment complex in a small town in north Mississippi.

Investigators said they found 60 to 100 rounds fired from multiple firearms throughout the apartment complex Sunday night in Crenshaw, news outlets reported.
MUSCATINE, Iowa (AP)  City leaders in Muscatine are considering whether to lift an 18-year ban on pit bulls within the city limits.

The City Council is scheduled to hold a special public hearing on Thursday to gather opinions on the ban thats been in place Aug. 1, 2003, and whether it should be abolished, the Muscatine Journal reported.
Regarding Oakland crime fighter becomes victim (Front Page, Oct. 24): Retired Oakland police Captain Ersie Joyner is battling for his life at Highland Hospital after a shootout.

Ive lived in Oakland for 40 years. The best way to stop gun violence is to purge the town of guns. Lets support a gun buyback program on steroids.

Who has guns? Men. Who wants to get rid of guns? Women. Ladies, collect the guns from your menfolk. Wouldnt you like to trade them in for some cash that you can use to pay your bills, send a child to summer camp or buy some good clothes?

Amelia Marshall, Oakland

Focus on cannabis

Perhaps its time to consider identifying Ersie Joyner as a self-proclaimed cannabis king instead of former police captain? This may change the way the attempted robbery of him is considered.

Sue Thornley, San Francisco

Rectify Marin redlining

Regarding What reparations could look like (Open Forum, Oct. 21): Thanks to Elizabeth Herbin-Triant and Dennis Aftergut for their article about reparations, citing the myriad ways government, private companies, banks, neighborhood associations and tax systems have hindered the ability of Black families to earn and accumulate capital, especially through home ownership.

I invite them to cast their eyes to Marin City. Like Bayview-Hunters Point, many residents of Marin Citys Golden Gate Village are descendants of World War II Black shipyard workers who were later prevented from buying homes in Marin.

Now, 60 years later, these residents are locked in a struggle for the future of their homes, which desperately need revitalization. The Golden Gate Village Resident Councils proposal (unlike Marin Housing Authoritys) includes a Community Land Trust plan, which would facilitate a path to home ownership  a path that was denied for decades through redlining.

Golden Gate Villages plan would begin to eradicate structural barriers to equality and to narrow the racial wealth gap. I encourage the housing authority to accept residents proposal and begin to right these decades of wrong.

Patricia Shea, Sausalito

Driving is too easy

Regarding Green means fewer cars (Insight, Oct. 24): I cannot agree with the editorial more.

I live in Marin County and recently took a new job in San Francisco near the Panhandle. I carefully mapped out riding my bike to the San Rafael Transit Center, putting the bike on a Golden Gate Transit bus, getting off at the Golden Gate Bridge and riding through the Presidio (one of the most beautiful bike commutes on the planet) to my office.

To my dismay, I found that Golden Gate Transit is bike friendly in writing only. The entire bike rack system is ill conceived and utterly unreliable, and it appears to be a box for some climate friendly state requirement that can be checked by planners who do not ride bikes.

In the Bay Area in 2021, this is beyond absurd and is completely backward: The ease with which I now take my car needs to be flipped and transformed into the ease and safety of taking my bike.
Matt Rourke/Associated Press

Facebooks core advertising business keeps booming, showing few signs of strain despite the companys countless controversies over misinformation, extremist content and revelations of its harm on teens, countries around the world and voters in documents disclosed by whistle-blower Frances Haugen.

The Menlo Park tech giants net income grew 17% to $9.19 billion in the third quarter, compared with a year earlier. The company has 2.91 billion monthly active users, up 6% over the past year, on its core social network excluding Instagram and WhatsApp. Revenue was $29 billion, up 25% from the previous year but below Wall Street analyst expectations. Growth was slower after Apple began asking users in April if they wanted to be tracked by apps, making it harder for advertisers.
Three families gave anonymous accounts to the San Jose Mercury News of how they first learned about the drunken, sex-fueled parties prosecutors say 47-year-old Los Gatos mom Shannon O'Connor threw for teenage high school students.

In interviews, they alleged their kids were manipulated through SnapChat and gifts of Tiffany jewelry to attend parties where O'Connor served their favorite beer at her Los Gatos home.

One set of parents told the Mercury News that after they picked up their son from a Halloween party at O'Connor's house he smelled of alcohol and vomited.

While their son slept, the parents said they were tipped off by their son's mobile phone that lit up repeatedly with a thread of SnapChat messages from O'Connor and other kids.

They said the messages referenced "drinking, sex, a girl throwing up on the bathroom floor and passing out and a boys parents finding out he was drunk and asking questions," the Mercury News reported in a story that ran Oct. 23.

O'Connor's main concern throughout the thread was allegedly whether or not the kids' parents knew about the party.

O'Connor was arrested in Idaho on Oct. 9 and extradited to California last week to face 39 felony and misdemeanor charges, including child abuse, sexual assault, sexual battery, child molestation and providing alcohol to minors, the Santa Clara County District Attorneys Office said. She faces incarceration if she is convicted. She was also hit with three additional charges of grand theft tied to $120,000 in unauthorized charges on company credit cards from her former employer, including payments for clothing, limousine rides and alcohol delivery to her home.

The prosecution's accusation that O'Connor served copious amounts of alcohol and encouraged teenagers to have sex has shaken the Silicon Valley community of Los Gatos, Calif.

She "bought vodka and Fireball whiskey, provided condoms, and discouraged the teens from telling their parents about the parties or calling for help when one of them passed out in their own vomit," a statement of facts alleged.

At one party at her Los Gatos home in December, authorities said, OConnor handed a condom to a boy and pushed him into a room with an intoxicated girl. Both were minors. The girl was able to get away and locked herself in the bathroom, Santa Clara County District Attorney investigator Christina Hanks detailed in court filings.

The parties were held across an 11-month period spanning 2020 to 2021 and were mainly attended by 14- and 15-year-olds, the office said.

O'Connor most recently lived in a suburb of Boise, Idaho, and when officers arrested her at her home in Star, there were 10 underage boys and two girls at her home  most of whom spent the night there, the Ada County Sheriff's Office said in the news release. Investigators called the parents of those teens before releasing them.

Detectives with the sheriff's office said O'Connor may have also been holding parties for teenagers in Idaho.

The Associated Press contributed to this story.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) _ Digital Realty Trust Inc. (DLR) on Tuesday reported a key measure of profitability in its third quarter. The results topped Wall Street expectations.

The real estate investment trust, based in Austin, Texas, said it had funds from operations of $479.2 million, or $1.65 per share, in the period.
McDonalds workers in 12 U.S. cities walked off the job Tuesday to protest what they say is an ongoing problem of sexual harassment and violence in the companys stores.

Several hundred workers were expected to participate in Chicago, Houston, Miami, Detroit and other cities, according to Fight for $15 and a Union, a labor group that organized the strikes.

This is the fifth time since 2018 that McDonalds workers have struck the company over what they say are inadequate efforts to stop sexual harassment in its stores. At least 50 workers have filed charges against McDonalds alleging verbal and physical harassment over the last five years.

In April, McDonalds announced it would require sexual harassment training, reporting procedures for complaints and annual employee surveys at its 40,000 stores worldwide starting in January 2022.

But some workers say thats not enough. They want McDonalds __ not its franchisees, who own nearly all of its U.S. stores __ to be held accountable for harassment in its restaurants.

Adriana Alvarez, who has been working at a McDonald's for the last decade, was part of a small group of protestors near the company's headquarters in Chicago Tuesday.

I'm on strike today because we need McDonald's to realize that we're not going to stop. What needs to stop is sexual harassment, she said. It's unfair to these workers, making close to poverty wages, and then on top of that to have to worry about being sexually harassed on the job.

McDonald's said late Tuesday that the strikes had no impact on its operations.

The latest labor action was spurred by a lawsuit filed last month by a teenage McDonalds employee and her parents against McDonalds and one of its franchisees.

The employee was 14 when she was hired to work at a Pittsburgh-area McDonalds in October 2020. The employee said she received no training on sexual harassment or how to report it, even though McDonalds set up a harassment hotline and began offering that training to franchisees in 2019.

According to the lawsuit, the teenagers store hired a manager in January 2021 who had served time in prison for sexually assaulting a 10-year-old girl and was listed in Pennsylvanias sex offender registry.

The manager abused and harassed the teenager and other underage employees, but there was no investigation by store leadership or McDonalds despite their complaints to the manager who hired them. In February, the manager followed the teen into a bathroom and raped her.

The manager, Walter Garner, was arrested in April after another McDonalds employee told administrators at her school about his behavior and the school contacted the police. Garner was sentenced to up to 10 years in prison last week.

The teenager is seeking damages from McDonalds as well as from the franchisee that ran her restaurant, Bethel Park, Pennsylvania-based Rice Enterprises LLC.

In addition to its harassment training requirement __ which was announced the same month Garner was arrested __ McDonalds said it expects franchisees to conduct thorough investigations when allegations arise.

Every single person working at a McDonalds restaurant deserves to feel safe and respected when they come to work, and sexual harassment and assault have no place in any McDonalds restaurant, the company said Tuesday in a statement.

In a statement provided by her attorney, Rice Enterprises CEO Michele Rice said the allegations made in the teen's lawsuit are deeply disturbing" and the employee was fired as soon as she heard about the complaints against him.

We have fully cooperated with the police and have offered our full support to the impacted employee, Rice said in the statement.
The optics for the recent developments at Disneyland have not been pretty lately. Sold-out Magic Key annual passes. Parking price hikes. A new, highest-price-ever ticket for the most in-demand days like holidays. At least two more months without parking trams.

And thats all just this week.

But theres one bright spot in all of this, literally: The Main Street Electrical Parade appears to be coming back to the park soon. The iconic and much-beloved parade started at Disneyland in 1972, ran through 1996 and features whats believed to be approximately 500,000 light bulbs on its floats, which depict iconic scenes from movies like Peter Pan and Alice in Wonderland.

According to Disney blog Allears.net, when it was retired, the parade had been performed almost 3,600 times for more than 75 million guests.

Disney hinted at the parade's return on TikTok this morning via a video of a sparkling snail, one of the Electrical Parade floats, headed towards a Disneyland truck, followed by the message to be continued. Fan reception on social media has been positive, but many have been wondering whether its a move designed to engender goodwill towards the company in the midst of such a prolonged bad news cycle (including an ongoing lawsuit in which 25,000 cast members are suing Disneyland for a living wage).

There are few guarantees in life, @MadnessKingdom tweeted, but Disney trotting out the Main Street Electrical Parade whenever theyre having some sort of trouble at the California parks is one of them.

The move wouldnt be without precedent. Disneyland has a history of using this particular parade to smooth over rough patches at the park. When the park retired the parade in 1996, the company used the idea that it was the last chance to see it to create a huge boost in attendance and profits. Then in 2001, it brought the then-retired parade to Disney California Adventure to combat lackluster attendance numbers. There, it became Disneys Electrical Parade since California Adventure doesnt have a Main Street.

Disneys California Adventure opened in February 2001, Disneyland history blog Yesterland wrote. When expected attendance levels failed to materialize, [the park] had to take quick action. Its not surprising that their first big initiative involved the Main Street Electrical Parade.

If killing the parade could work such wonders, how about bringing it back from the dead?

Although the parade was popular enough to keep it around for several years at California Adventure, it didnt solve the underlying issues with the park. If the parade was meant to provide an instant fix to the parks attendance problems, it failed, Yesterland wrote.

Main Street Electrical Parade also made brief reappearances in Disneyland Park in 2017 and 2019.

Considering the Walt Disney Companys enormous year-over-year profit and the launch of paid fast passes earlier this month, some Disney fans have noted that this parade  using equipment thats existed for nearly 50 years and requires no real investment of time or finances that a new show would demand  feels convenient.

Is this just a new [and] inexpensive way to get a parade going? one commenter on the TikTok asked.

Yall made your customers angry so you gotta drag this out again, huh? another questioned.

Im in the most toxic abusive relationship ever with Disney, another said. Raise prices but wait I love you heres the MSEP.
San Francisco is perhaps best-known for two things: its infamous, dripping fog and its colorful homes, painted in every shade, from daring to pastel, of the rainbow.

Today, San Franciscos Victorians and other color-rich homes face a rising threat: the popularity of gray, a trend that threatens to wash over the unique architectural heritage of the city.

But before we get to gray, our story starts in the late 19th century, when vibrantly colored, grand, ornamented Victorian homes were still springing up around the city.

The vast majority of Victorians were built between 1870 and 1905, many constructed by large building companies, some of which offered loans to potential homebuyers, according to Tanu Sankalia, a professor of architecture and urban studies at the University of San Francisco. Many of these builders marketed their homes to the citys emerging middle class. While the wealthy lived on Nob Hill and in Pacific Heights, as they do today, everything west of Van Ness Street, including the Western Addition, drew folks of more humbler needs.

One such builder was John C. Pelton, who, in the 1880s, began building what he called Petons Cheap Dwellings around the city. According to the book In the Victorian Style, by Randolph Delehanty and Richard Sexton, the homes could be constructed for just $585. About $130 went to the carpenter, labor and nails.

Pelton had three versions of dwellings, demarcated by the numbers one to three. Dwelling One was a three-room cottage that cost just under $600. Dwelling Two was $854.25, while the more decorated Dwelling Three cost $1,140.

Houses sprung up quickly, but some of them had an overarching problem: They looked too similar. To differentiate among the houses, color came into play.

Thats one of the first instances where you get colors emerging, Sankalia said. Because they were so similar, the question was, how do you differentiate them?

According to Delehanty and Sexton, the original Victorian paint scheme was quite simple. Victorians werent yet undergoing a color boom.

White lead paint was used for the body of the building and all its ornament, no matter how elaborate, they write. Other colors, such as black, green and even terracotta would have been used solely for the window sash.

And now back to gray. According to the authors, even that dark hue was another favored San Francisco Victorian exterior color, while the rich colors were reserved for the homes interiors.

But this wasnt necessarily the case for all Victorians. In the book Painted Ladies: San Franciscos Resplendent Victorians, authors Elizabeth Pomada and Michael Larsen explain that painters in the last half of [the 19th century] used different colors to point out the different parts of the house.

Some houses looked as if they had been painted in stripes: the ground floor would be one color; the second story another; trim, another; roof, another; and so on, the authors write.

By the end of the 1800s, Victorians fell ungracefully out of fashion.

By the 1920s, the very word Victorian was a term of contempt, Delehanty and Sexton write. Victorians began to be considered monstrosities.

But changes in the city were brewing. By wartime, there was a strange shift that occurred, Sankalia said. There was a lot of surplus Navy gray paint  battleship gray  that was going around, he said, and the colorful Victorians and row houses began turning monochrome.

There was the Great Depression, wartime austerity and already a supply of this overstock paint, Sankalia said. So it became the choice of paint.

As the years progressed, San Franciscos old houses, especially its reviled Victorians, fell into disuse and disorder. The paint peeled, the beams cracked, the windows shattered, and more and more people began moving into the fancy high-rises built around downtown.

But change was brewing once more. By the mid-1970s, housing prices, in a now-familiar theme, had more than doubled in San Francisco, according to In the Victorian Style. People began paying attention to the faded Victorians once again, setting their sights on restoring them, rather than building new homes.

Another part of this process was the migration of young gay men to San Francisco, Delehanty and Sexton write. They found that they could make a living buying, restoring, and then selling Victorians, only to buy another salvageable house to continue the process.

At the same time, the Colorist Movement was overtaking San Francisco and its banal Victorians. The Colorist Movement was led by a crew of artists who transferred their love of the psychedelic movement onto their homes.

One such artist was Maija Peeples-Bright, who painted one ornamented Victorian townhouse at 908 Steiner St. in a rainbow of bright colors, according to SF Heritage.

Maija and I are very unbeige, SF Heritage quotes Peeples-Brights husband as saying. She has dedicated her life to painting bright beasts, all different and unique, on every handy surface. ... Against them, beige doesnt have a chance.

Other artists and colorists, including Butch Kardum and Bob Buckter, got in on the trend.

Buckter, speaking to SFGATE previously, attributed the new colorful trend to the psychedelic movement.

[The psychedelic movement] changes the way you perceive things and the way you want your house to look, he said. So I think that's how it started. And then a few pioneers, like myself, started going out and putting things together. And then people started taking note of it, and then more and more people did it, and then it just grew.

But theres more at play here than trends. According to Sankalia, new paints with brighter hues were also being developed in the 60s. Plus, color served as a visual signifier of resurrection.

You could use color as a way to resurrect some of these buildings, he said. Its another way to say, these are really cool buildings, its also a way to get under historic preservation as well.

Sankalia argued that in the context of urban renewal, historic preservation took on an added urgency.

Color became another way to preserve these homes and make it known to people that this is a built environment with architectural heritage, and the heritage of the city should be preserved, he said. What better way to do that than celebrate it with color?

Now that weve come to know San Francisco homes as colorful, their bright hues have become a part of this city and its history. Preserving the homes  and their colors  serves as a reminder of that.

But back to the grays. Buckter said he thinks the latest desire to paint San Franciscos once-vibrant homes gray is just a trend.

Its ignoring, or being ignorant, of your architecture, he said. But you know what? Its a free world, and if it tickles your fancy, do it.
Youll catch glimpses of it in an abundance of memorable San Francisco-set films.

A Victorian perched on the corner of a quiet intersection in a psychological thriller. At the top of a steep hill overlooking the city skyline in a frenzied car chase scene. Inside a cozy cafe fit for a romantic comedy.

While Potrero Hill might be a bit of an unlikely choice as far as location scouting goes, its easy to understand why the neighborhood has become a star in its own right  and a popular choice for Hollywood filmmakers over the years, regardless of whether the movie is actually set in Potrero Hill or not.

Productions can capture a residential area with a magnificent skyline in the background, combined with our very steep hills, all in one shot, said Susannah Robbins, executive director of the San Francisco Film Commission. Its a visual feast to directors to be able to combine those three elements through a camera lens.

Peter Linenthal, director of the Potrero Hill Archives Project, couldnt deny the neighborhoods allure either. Filmmakers like Potrero Hills SF views and relatively uncrowded streets, he said.

At the same time, Linenthal noted the striking abnormalities of life in San Francisco captured on film. His organization is headquartered at 298 Missouri St., where 1987's Burglar starring Whoopi Goldberg was filmed, followed by 2001's Sweet November with Keanu Reeves and Charlize Theron and 2018's Ant-Man and the Wasp.

What strikes me is the unreality of SF real estate in movies: Charlizes character would not have been able to afford such a large SF apartment. Ditto with Paul Rudd as a single dad in Ant-Man, he said.

Its true that North Beach has its own claim to San Francisco movie fame, but this month, we decided to feature eight of Potrero Hills most memorable scenes captured on the big screen. See where Roger Moores James Bond knocked over a gas station sign during an iconic firetruck chase and Keanu Reeves fell for Charlize Theron.

1. 'Venom: Let There Be Carnage' (2021)

Exterior shots of the Tenderloin and Grace Cathedral were captured in this sequel to Marvels blockbuster franchise that was filmed in February 2020, but one popular Potrero Hill spot also stood in for police station scenes: Anchor Brewing Company on 1705 Mariposa St.

A spokesperson for the brewery said the surrounding Mariposa and De Haro streets were shut down to accommodate for stunt work, including a scene with stunt doubles simulating Venom as he bursts through a wall on the third floor to escape prison. He then lands on an SFPD cruiser, resulting in a small explosion.

"We had a good crowd of our neighbors on site for filming, and there was lots of excitement and curiosity in the air," the spokesperson told SFGATE, adding that the "Venom" cast and crew utilized Anchor's Public Taps for pre-production staging, talent trailers and craft services. "Many of the crew also enjoyed a pint or two of their favorite Anchor brews upon wrapping."

It wasn't the first time a production crew had taken over the brewery: Arnold Schwarzenegger was in an episode of "The Streets of San Francisco" that was filmed there and aired in 1977.

"It was very cool to see some 'movie magic' firsthand," the spokesperson said.

Starring Tom Hardy as the titular villain/protagonist, "Venom: Let There Be Carnage" follows his everyday persona, a San Francisco journalist named Eddie Brock, who is writing a profile on serial killer Cletus Kasady (Woody Harrelson). Brock frequently visits Kasady in San Quentin State Prison for interviews as his death penalty sentence looms, and during their last conversation, Kasady bites Brock, causing Kasady to transform into another supervillain, Carnage.

Jay Maidment

2. 'Vegas in Space' (1991)

Barbarella meets Mystery Science Theater 3000 in this campy cult classic with an all-drag cast. Director and member of the legendary San Francisco drag troupe Sluts-A-Go-Go Phillip R. Ford was still a film student at San Francisco State University when he co-wrote the screenplay with drag icons Miss X, Doris Fish and Tippi, who would also star in the film as a band of intergalactic soldiers who undergo a drag transformation to infiltrate a planet of all women and secure the rare gems hidden there to save the universe. Shortly prior to the world premiere of Vegas in Space, Fish and Tippi would die of illnesses related to AIDS, but the film has gone on to be remembered as a landmark in queer cinema, with reunions and drag tribute performances hosted by Peaches Christ, filmmaker and Dragula writer Michael Varrati and Frameline Film Festival at the Clay and Victoria theaters.

Laden with kitschy stop-motion sequences and wry humor, Vegas in Space'' was largely shot inside Fishs Victorian apartment at 422 Oak St. in 1983. However, the climactic final scene in the lair of the villainous Queen Veneer was shot at The Farm, a commune and performance space under Highway 101 at Potrero Avenue and Cesar Chavez Boulevard that ended with an eviction in 1987. Large sheets of iridescent plastic cellophane draped around the venue create[d] the illusion of an ice palace of sorts, Ford wrote in a blog dedicated to the making of the film, which is truly B-horror at its best.

This was shot in black and white and is my favorite sequence in the finished film, wrote Ford.

3. 'Bullitt' (1968)

Starring Steve McQueen, this neo-action thriller based on the 1963 novel Mute Witness follows SFPD detective Lt. Frank Bullitt (Steve McQueen) as his team keeps close tabs on Chicago mobster Johnny Ross. The production crew spent three months filming throughout the streets of San Francisco, but its the infamous car chase scene that makes this movie memorable.

That said, most locals will find the path of the Mustang and Charger rather disorienting as they jump from Bernal Heights to Potrero Hill, racing along 20th and Kansas to 20th and Rhode Island before suddenly materializing in Russian Hill and later North Beach. In any case, the resulting sequence proved entrancing for viewers, and editor Frank P. Keller would win an Academy Award for his efforts.

4. 'Pacific Heights' (1990)

This movie was featured on Bravos 100 Scariest Movie Moments and today reads as a bit of a tongue-in-cheek portrayal of the power dynamic between landlord and tenant. But dont let the title fool you: The homes exterior was actually shot in Potrero Hill, and it's still perched on the corner of 19th and Texas Street.

Filming it in Pacific Heights would have been a nightmare because of all the crazy things we did in that movie, former location manager Laurie Noll, who also worked on The Princess Diaries, told SFGATE. (I wont spoil too much, but live cockroaches are involved.)

Described as the first eviction thriller by New York Times film critic Janet Maslin upon its release, this psychological horror film stars Melanie Griffith and Matthew Modine as a privileged young couple who decide to purchase their dream Victorian abode and move in together. Its a bit of a fixer-upper, but they decide to renovate it anyway and become landlords, renting out the units in order to afford the place. Michael Keaton plays the nightmarish but cunning tenant who moves in, changes the locks and refuses to pay his deposit or his rent  but his behavior becomes increasingly creepy from there.

5. 'Dirty Harry' (1971)

We Potrero Hill boys, we got to stick together, a doctor says to the titular rogue police officer played by Clint Eastwood in the first film of this San Francisco-set action franchise. A prescient signal of the conservative turn of the Ronald Reagan era, its a right-wing fantasy of a film laden with gratuitous bloodletting that hasnt aged well, but undoubtedly paved the way for a slew of crime dramas that would follow in its footsteps in addition to spawning four of its own sequels.

Several scenes, including the aforementioned exchange between Harry and the doctor, were filmed at San Francisco General Hospital on 1001 Potrero Ave., while a car chase sequence similar to Bullitts zips along Mississippi toward 20th Street (the Potrero Hill gas storage tank is visible on the horizon, though the structure has since been demolished). The final film in the series, The Dead Pool, also features this remote control car pursuit.

6. 'A View to a Kill' (1985)

Move over, No Time to Die. This campy James Bond classic starring Roger Moore, Christopher Walken, Tanya Roberts and Grace Jones not only boasts an iconic fight scene on top of the Golden Gate Bridge, but perhaps one of the best title sequences of any Bond film, with a quintessentially '80s theme from Duran Duran thrown in for good measure (it would go on to claim the No. 1 slot on the Billboard Hot 100).

In the film, Bond (Moore) tracks down Max Zorin (Walken) and May Day (Jones), who are responsible for crafting microchips that release adrenaline in racehorses, though Bond fears the technology could be used for something far more sinister. Knowing their leading competitor in the microchip industry is Silicon Valley, the villainous duo plots to destroy the area by inducing an explosion beneath the lakes in the Hayward and San Andreas faults.

An iconic sequence follows Bond and state geologist Stacey Sutton (Roberts), whose family oil business Zorin attempts to buy out for the sake of his sinister scheme. When Bond and Sutton sneak into San Francisco City Hall to secretly review his plans, the police get involved, and the pair evades them by jumping onto a fire truck and careening through downtown San Francisco, knocking over the Chevron sign where the McDonalds on 16th and Potrero stands today.

7. 'Sweet November' (2001)

Long before Keanu Reeves flung himself off Embarcadero skyscrapers in the soon-to-be-released The Matrix Resurrections or dated Ali Wong in Always Be My Maybe he appeared alongside a fresh-faced Charlize Theron in a 2001 remake of the 1968 romantic comedy Sweet November.

We see Potrero Hill front and center in several scenes: the exterior of Saras apartment is at 298 Missouri St. (where the Potrero Hill Archives Project is today) on the corner of 18th, and the couple is seen wandering into the now-shuttered Daily Scoop ice cream parlor nearby, which was made to look like a produce stand and convenience store. They also dine nearby at Farleys, where you can still stop in for a cup of coffee.

Linenthal said he decorated a model boat and a skateboard for the film, and remembers that Keanu Reeves bought some reading material at Christophers Books during production. He also recalled a particularly funny anecdote:

A friend came over and wondered who the woman sitting on my front stairs was, he said. It was Charlize Theron.

Directed by Pat OConnor, the tear-jerker of a film follows the unlikely romance between robotic ad executive Nelson Moss (Reeves) and free-spirited dog groomer Sara Deever (Theron) who cross paths while taking a test at the DMV. Afterward, she suggests a dubious proposition: that he come live with her for the month of November in order to shed his workaholic ways and ultimately learn how to appreciate the simple pleasures of life. The pair fall for one another, but little does Nelson know, Sara is hiding a secret that will change everything.

8. 'The Joy Luck Club' (1993)

In this film based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Oakland-based author Amy Tan, the shared home of couple Lena St. Clair (Lauren Tom) and Harold (Michael Paul Chan)  still at 610 Rhode Island St.  is cold, industrial and gray, and seems to mimic their detached relationship.

This coming-of-age drama traces different generations of Asian American women, weaving together multiple story lines from the past to present day that examine their complicated relationships and cultural differences. Once married to an abusive husband in China, Ying-Ying (France Nuyen) only wants the best for her daughter, Lena, who is unhappily married herself to her boss from her architecture firm, Harold. He cares more about tallying Lenas expenses than being a good husband to her, which frustrates Ying-Ying.

One million dollars, and the walls are still crooked, she laments to her daughter of the modern interior. Later, as Ying-Ying stands in the guest bedroom alone while Lena and Harold argue, she thinks to herself, All around this house I see the signs. My daughter looks, but she does not see. This is a house that will break into pieces.

However dismal, the architecture of the three-bedroom, 1.5-bathroom home was inspired by the Kronos House, where cellist Joan Jeanrenaud once lived.

Its Potrero Hill Month at SFGATE. Well be diving deep into the neighborhood for the entirety of October as part of a series where well be highlighting a different corner of San Francisco every month this year.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  A 13-year-old has been charged as a juvenile with the murder of a 69-year-old woman killed during a likely home invasion on Indianapolis' near east side, the Marion County Prosecutors Office said Tuesday.

Prosecutors have not yet decided whether to charge the teen as an adult.
PARIS (AP)  Two men went on trial in Paris on Tuesday accused of killing an 85-year-old French Holocaust survivor, who was stabbed to death in her Paris apartment in what prosecutors call an antisemitic attack.

Mireille Knolls brutal death in 2018 shocked France and served as a reminder of both historic antisemitism and its resurgence in recent years.

The two chief suspects accuse each other of the killing, and their lawyers deny any antisemitic reasons, according to French press reports. They are charged with killing a vulnerable person based on religious motives, as well as aggravated theft.

One of the suspects was a neighbor who grew up in the same Paris public housing project where Knoll had lived most of her life. Knoll had frequently hosted him, according to her son.

Knoll was found dead with multiple stab wounds in March 2018 in her apartment, which was then set ablaze. Tribute marches were held around France to honor her and denounce racism. President Emmanuel Macron attended her funeral and said the attackers profaned our sacred values and our history.

At age 9, Knoll was forced to flee Paris with her family to escape a notorious World War II roundup of Jews. French police herded some 13,000 people  including more than 4,000 children  into the Vel dHiv stadium in 1942 and shipped them to the Auschwitz death camp in Nazi-occupied Poland. Fewer than 100 of them survived.

A family member with Brazilian citizenship helped Knoll and other relatives escape Nazi-occupied territory for southern Europe and then Canada, according to her son.

She returned to France after the end of the war, and while her grandchildren and other French Jews later moved to Israel, Knoll stayed in her modest apartment in her beloved Paris.

The trial runs through Nov. 19.

Knolls death came a year after another Jewish woman, Sarah Halimi, was thrown from her Paris balcony to her death. French prosecutors classified the killing as antisemitic, but the country's top court ruled this year that the suspect couldnt be tried for murder because he was in a delirious state  apparently related to his drug use. That decision caused an outcry.

Also Tuesday, Macron inaugurated Frances first museum honoring army Capt. Alfred Dreyfus, a Jew who was wrongly convicted of treason in the 19th century. The affair inspired a landmark essay by author Emile Zola that called out French antisemitism, called JAccuse. The museum, in the Paris suburb of Medan, is part of the Zola House and is aimed at bringing alive the Dreyfus Affair in perpetuating his memory, according to Macrons office.
KERRVILLE, Texas (AP)  Four people remained hospitalized Monday, two in critical condition, after a weekend drag racing crash in the Texas Hill Country that killed two children, police said.

The crash happened during a Saturday racing event on a runway at the Kerrville-Kerr County Airport, about 50 miles (85 kilometers) northwest of San Antonio.

In a statement Monday, Kerrville police said two women  a 27-year-old from Taylor, Texas, and a 46-year-old from Converse, Texas  were in critical condition at University Hospital in San Antonio.

Meantime, race car driver Michael Gonzales, 34, of Fort Worth, was in stable condition Monday at a San Antonio hospital. A 26-year-old man was in stable condition at Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin.

Two other adults were treated for minor injuries at the crash scene and released, and a four-year-old boy and a three-month-old girl were examined at a Kerrville hospital and released.

Police were not releasing the identities of the two boys, ages 6 and 8, killed in the crash.

The crash happened as Gonzalez was racing his 1990 Ford Mustang when he began to lose control halfway down the 1/8-mile track laid out on one of the airport runways, according to the police statement. The car started to fishtail before sliding out of control off the runway and into a grassy area from which spectators were watching.

The vehicle struck multiple spectators before hitting a trailer and coming to a stop.

Thousands attended the organized event, which involved drivers speeding down a runway as they competed for cash.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP)  The American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky and the Department of Public Advocacy have filed a lawsuit alleging some state prisons are violating the rights of inmates who receive legal mail from their attorneys.

State prisons are confiscating incoming legal mail and only giving photocopies of the mail to inmates, according to a lawsuit filed Tuesday in Franklin County. The lawsuit said the copies are often not complete and the original mail is not kept confidential.
LAFAYETTE, La. (AP)  A federal jury in Louisiana convicted an Alabama man on Tuesday of creating child pornography by coercing a girl under age 12 to send him sexually explicit images of herself.

William Malone, 45, of Mobile, was convicted in Lafayette on five counts of producing child pornography and two related charges, federal prosecutors said in a news release.

The federal public defenders who represented Malone did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Malone did employ, use, persuade, induce, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the pornography, according to the production charges in the indictment handed up Oct. 7, 2020.

Acting U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook said the investigation began in March 2020, after the girl in Mobile told her mother that Malone had been sexually abusing her.

Malone was captain of a vessel that sailed out of Abbeville, Louisiana, and the images were on his phone and laptop, found in a search of that vessel, the news release said.

FBI agents had found texts on the girls cell phone asking her to send sexually explicit images of herself, and images that she told officers she had sent were found on Malone's phone and laptop, according to the news release.

A sentencing date has not been set. The maximum total sentence would be life in prison plus 160 years, and a $250,000 fine, the news release said.

Charges of sexual abuse of a child under age 12 and of first-degree rape and first-degree sodomy are pending in Mobile, police spokeswoman Katrina Frazier said in an email.

The Mobile County District Attorney's Office did not immediately respond to an email asking if he has an attorney there who could speak for him.
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Alert: Police: Officer dies after being shot by man at gas station in Illinois suburb of St. Louis
MOBILE, Ala. (AP)  An Alabama apartment complex was paid a visit by an unusual guest as children were coming home from school Monday afternoon: an alligator that crawled out of a storm drain.

Kenisha Miller and her boyfriend, Anthony Patterson, told WKRG-TV that they were driving home when they stopped to do a double-take in a downtown Mobile neighborhood.
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP)  President Joe Biden framed the Virginia governors race as a repudiation of his predecessor, tying the Republican candidate to former President Donald Trump as he campaigned Tuesday night for Democrat Terry McAuliffe in what's become a tight and increasingly bitter campaign.

No Republican has won statewide office in Virginia since 2009, and Biden carried it by a comfortable 10 percentage points in 2020. Yet polls have shown McAuliffe tied with Republican former business executive Glenn Youngkin with the election a week away  and the president's own popularity is on the decline.

In the final days of the race, both candidates are focused on turning out their base supporters, with Republicans pressing culture war issues  prompting a debate over banning books in high school classrooms  and McAuliffe, who previously served as governor from 2014 to 2018, hammering Youngkin for his ties to Trump.

Biden drove that theme home during a rally in Arlington, just across the Potomac River from Washington, mentioning the former president by name more frequently than Youngkin and drawing a direct line from last year's presidential race to next Tuesday's election.

I ran against Donald Trump and Terry is running against an acolyte of Donald Trump," Biden said.

He charged that Youngkin not only embraces some of the essential lack of character, he endorses Donald Trump's bad ideas and bad record."

McAuliffe, meanwhile, told the same gathering that Youngkin is ending his campaign the way he started it: With divisive dog whistles."

We have a choice: A path that promotes conspiracies, hate, division, or a path focused on lifting up every single Virginian, McAuliffe said.

A loss by McAuliffe  or perhaps even a narrow victory  would be an ominous sign for Democrats already likely facing stiff political headwinds in next year's midterm elections, when their narrow control of the House and Senate will be on the line. The party that wins the White House historically losses congressional seats in the next election, and Virginia, this cycle's top off-year race, is seen as a key test of whether Democrats can head into 2022 with momentum.

How much help Biden will offer McAuliffe is unclear, though. The president has seen the percentage of Americans approving of his job performance fall after the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, and amid an economy that remains far from fully healed as the nation continues to struggle with the coronavirus pandemic.

Biden defended his record Tuesday night, rehashing some of his old arguments with Trump. He said that while Trump presided over a loss of American jobs, the Biden administration has overseen a surge in job creation, and also touted the strength of the stock market on his watch  a nod to one of Trump's favored metrics for success.

And Biden touted aspects of his infrastructure and social services spending proposals, tying his plans to the need to win next week's elections.

We're on the right track, but we've got more to do," Biden said.

Youngkin's campaign released an ad featuring a mother who years ago sought to have the book Beloved banned from classrooms in suburban Washington. The acclaimed 1987 novel by Nobel laureate Toni Morrison is about an escaped slave who kills her infant daughter rather than allowing the girl to be returned to the plantation.

The mother's advocacy led to state legislation McAuliffe vetoed in 2016 and 2017 that would have let parents opt out of having their children study classroom materials with sexually explicit content.

McAuliffes campaign and fellow Democrats blasted Youngkins ad and accused him of trying to silence Black authors.

McAuliffe's campaign highlighted the controversy during his rally Tuesday night by passing out copies of Beloved to reporters, and McAuliffe hammered Youngkin for it.

He wants to bring his personal culture wars into our classrooms," he said. Folks, we will not allow Glenn Youngkin to bring his hate, his chaos, into our Virginia schools.

Youngkin has made defending parental rights in school classrooms a centerpiece of his gubernatorial run, and his campaign responded by noting that the bills McAuliffe vetoed had passed with Democratic support. It said that by accusing Youngkin of playing racial politics, McAuliffe was effectively leveling the same charge at his own party.

That issue flared up before Biden addressed more than 1,000 people who cheered and shivered against stiff winds on soccer fields in a park in Arlington, long safely blue territory. Other, nearby parts of the fast-growing Washington suburbs have moved Virginia from a onetime swing state to more reliably Democratic  especially as their populations of Black, Hispanic and Asian residents have increased.

A small group of protesters, one hoisting a large Trump Won flag, gathered nearby and briefly chanted Let's Go Brandon, a euphemism for a vulgarity against Biden that has become popular on conservative social media sites.

Ebonie Gadson, 23, an independent voter who works for a tech company and lives across the street, headed to rally to learn more about a governor's race she said she only recently began closely following.

Having the president's support, I think, will increase voter turnout and just get everyone excited, said Gadson, who added that she wanted to learn more about the race than just what I'd seen on TV.

Republican National Committee Chairwoman Ronna McDaniel said Youngkin is ensuring every Virginian has a say in their childs education.

With an unprecedented amount of Republican enthusiasm, Virginians are ready to reject Terry McAuliffe and Joe Biden, McDaniel said in a statement.

Biden made his second trip to Arlington since McAuliffe launched his gubernatorial bid. He's the latest in a parade of Democratic stars to flood the state, hoping to fire up the party's base.

The president follows former President Barack Obama, Democratic National Committee Chairman Jaime Harrison, former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams, Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms and first lady Jill Biden.

Vice President Kamala Harris will campaign for McAuliffe on Friday, her second stop in as many weeks. In Dumfries, about 30 miles south of Washington last week, Harris called the race tight and warned against Democratic complacency.

Youngkin campaigned in Clarksville and Danville, not far from the Virginia-North Carolina border, on Tuesday, part of a 50-stop bus tour. In contrast to McAuliffe, Youngkin, a former top executive at the private equity firm the Carlyle Group, has largely shied away from outside help from national party members, though he has been endorsed by Trump.

This is no longer a campaign, Youngkin said as he visited suburban Richmond recently. "This is a movement.

___

Associated Press writer Sarah Rankin in Richmond, Virginia, contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden on Tuesday announced a $100 million initiative meant to beef up the U.S. relationship with the organization of Southeast Asian nations.

Biden made the new spending announcement at a virtual summit with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It marked the first time since 2017, when President Donald Trump participated in the summit, that a U.S. president took part in a meeting of the bloc.
BOSTON (AP)  A 48-foot white spruce has been chosen to serve a Bostons next Christmas tree and will soon begin its trek from Nova Scotia as part of a decades-old tradition.

This years tree is being donated by LArche Cape Breton, a nonprofit that provides homes and work for people with disabilities. The 60-year-old tree sits on the nonprofits property on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and will be cut down during a Nov. 10 ceremony.
LOS ANGELES (AP)  The deluge California received from a powerful atmospheric river made streams and waterfalls come alive while coating mountains with snow, but as the storm headed east to the Plains on Tuesday it left the Golden State still deep in drought.

The atmospheric river, a long plume of moisture pulled in from the Pacific, capped a series of back-to-back storm systems that abruptly switched the state's immediate emergency concerns from wildfires to flooding.

But the long-term problem of a drought that scientists say is part of a warming and drying trend driven by climate change was not washed away.

One storm this early in the water year does not predict the rest of the winter storm season, state climatologist Michael Anderson said in a statement. After this system we see a period of dry conditions return to California.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's 2021 winter forecast shows the probability of precipitation in California to be significantly below average while temperatures run well above average.

And the state is already running a water deficit.

During normal years, the winter snowpack in the Sierra Nevada supplies about 30% of water statewide when the spring melt comes and water runs off to be captured in the state's system of reservoirs.

Winters, however, have not been normal lately.

Last April 1, the date when the snowpack is typically at its deepest and contains the greatest amount of water, the state Department of Water Resources' system of electronic monitors found it was only 59% of average.

Then, in a stunning development, about 80% of the predicted runoff never appeared. Soils were so dry and temperatures so warm that the water instead was soaked up or evaporated, and reservoir water storage fell to shocking levels.

One of those huge reservoirs, Lake Oroville, has risen more than 20 feet (6 meters) since the series of storms began last week, but the Department of Water Resources website showed it was at just 27% of capacity Tuesday.

The early season storms were beneficial but officials say much more rain is needed.

We have much less accumulated precipitation over the past few years than we should normally receive and the soils are particularly dry  we cannot fix this condition with one storm, Anderson said.

The northern Sierra generally received 2-20 inches (5-51 centimeters) of snow, with a few sites reporting more, but snow depth dropped to 1-2 inches (2.5-5 centimeters) in the central Sierra and just a trace fell in the southern end of the range, according to the department.

Even before the rains, the pace of California wildfires that have burned nearly 3,900 square miles (10,100 square kilometers) this year was slowing and then the wet weather pushed several of the remaining huge blazes to 100% containment.

In Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, the lightning-sparked KNP Complex fire was 69% contained after receiving several inches of rain and snow. Firefighters sheltered in place Monday and on Tuesday supervisors were to assess conditions. When safety permits, the crews will reengage the fire, a situation report said.

Most of this year's major fires have occurred in now-saturated Northern California. In Southern California, however, the fire season typically begins in fall, when the region's powerful, dry Santa Ana winds blow.
HEMPSTEAD, N.Y. (AP)  The U.S. Coast Guard was searching Tuesday for a kayaker who went missing off Long Island.

Coast Guard officials got a report shortly after 5:30 a.m. that Laurence Broderick, 45, had not returned from a kayaking trip Monday night.
Congress is set to force Americas armed services to keep better track of their guns and explosives, imposing new rules in response to an Associated Press investigation that showed firearms stolen from U.S. bases have resurfaced in violent crimes.

Under the proposals, the Department of Defense would tell both lawmakers and civilian law enforcement authorities more about guns that vanish from military armories, shipments and warehouses.

Overall, AP has found that at least 2,000 firearms from the Army, Marines, Navy or Air Force were lost or stolen during the 2010s.

Even as guns kept disappearing, the Department of Defense in recent years stopped advising Congress of most losses or thefts. That was one finding of an investigation which showed how assault rifles, pistols, armor-piercing grenades and other weapons have made their way onto the nations streets.

Lawmakers in both the House and Senate responded by writing stricter accountability into each chambers version of the National Defense Authorization Act. That bipartisan, must-pass legislation sets policy priorities for the Pentagon.

In coming weeks, lawmakers will hammer out differences between the two defense authorization act versions as the legislation marches toward the presidents desk. For example, the Senate envisions more reporting to the FBI while the House focuses on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

In interviews, military officials have acknowledged numerous problems with how they keep track of weapons through the militarys vast supply chains.

The chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Mark Milley, told senators in June that he would seek a systematic fix within the Department of Defense -- regardless of what Congress did. Spokespeople for the Army and Marines have said their service branches are making changes to how they account for weapons.

Those internal efforts have not persuaded some lawmakers.

We are concerned that DOD has seemingly not yet developed a coherent strategy to improve its ability to account for military weapons and equipment, Democratic leaders on the House Committee on Oversight and Reform wrote Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and the leaders of the service branches in a letter dated Monday.

The lawmakers requested a progress briefing by Nov. 19. Spokespeople for the Army, Marines, Navy and Air Force said the branches would respond directly to the committee.

The letter also focused on a technology that some units of the Air Force and Army have used to track guns, but that could let even low-tech enemies detect U.S. troops.

When embedded in military guns, thin radio frequency identification tags  RFID, as the technology is known  can streamline weapon counts and distribution. But field testing for AP showed that, outside armories, the electronic signals the tags emit could become an unwanted tracking beacon from distances greater than some armed services seemed to realize.

The Office of the Secretary of Defense called the tracking potential for enemies a significant security problem, and under questioning the Navy told AP it would abandon the technology in weapons. Still, RFID tags are used in many aspects of military logistics and lawmakers on the committee asked the Pentagon to detail how widely the technology is deployed and to explain the security risks those uses bring.

___

Pritchard reported from Los Angeles. Contact him at https://twitter.com/JPritchardAP. Hall reported from Nashville, Tennessee. Contact her at https://twitter.com/kmhall.

___

Email APs Global Investigations Team at investigative@ap.org or https://www.ap.org/tips/. See other work at https://www.apnews.com/hub/ap-investigations.
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  An activist who was acquitted in August of interfering in a protest arrest last year has been acquitted of another charge in which police accused him of blocking a street during a protest.

A judge on Friday found Jaylen Cavil, an organizer for Des Moines Black Liberation Movement, not guilty of a misdemeanor charge of obstructing a public way, the Des Moines Register reported.
CHICAGO (AP)  In the fall of 1976, Carolyn Sanders received an exciting postcard from her brother.

I'll see you soon cause I love you, Francis Wayne Alexander  known to his family as Wayne  wrote to his younger sister. She hadn't spoken with him since his 1975 wedding and hoped the brief note meant he was coming to visit the family on Long Island, New York, for Christmas.

It was the final communication Sanders can remember receiving from her brother, who on Monday was confirmed to be among the victims of John Wayne Gacy, who was convicted of killing 33 young men and boys in the Chicago area in the 1970s and was executed in 1994.

Alexanders family spent the next 40-plus years hoping he had a reason for staying away, trying not to linger on the possibilities.

Decades without a word didnt stop the family from wistfully mentioning Alexander, hoping he would call or even show up for a holiday. Sanders typed his name into Facebook from time to time and their brother Richard Clyde checked some genealogical sites.

I always hoped that he was still out there, and for some reason couldn't call, Sanders told reporters on Tuesday. Not even ... wanting to think of what that reason could be.

It's not clear exactly when Alexander was killed. Investigators said the last known record they found is a parking ticket from January 1976 and that financial records showed he made very little money that year, suggesting he was killed sometime from early 1976 to mid-March of 1977.

Sanders said their mother, who is 87, spoke to Alexander every month and last remembered speaking to him in November 1976, when Alexander asked her to mail his birth certificate to California because he hoped to get a security job.

When Alexander didn't call the following month, Sanders said their mother contacted a California police department to search for him.

Police couldn't locate him at the address the family provided, and their mother wrongly believed the inquiry would prompt a missing persons investigation, said Sanders, who was 14 years old at the time.

This summer, a detective from the Cook County Sheriff's Office contacted the family in search of DNA to test against human remains from a cold case.

Lt. Jason Moran didn't mention Gacy's name at first. Learning the time and location where the remains were discovered still made Sanders fear the worst.

The wait for DNA confirmation that her brother was among Gacy's victims was excruciating, Sanders said.

I remember him as a jokester and yet sensitive, she said. We were seven years apart and he would have tea parties with me. He loved me. He loved us all.

Investigators don't know how Gacy came to know and target Alexander, who was born in North Carolina and lived in New York before moving to Chicago in the mid-1970s. They said he lived in an area Gacy that frequented and where some of his other victims had lived.

Alexanders remains were among 26 sets that police found in the crawl space under Gacys home just outside Chicago in 1978. Eight victims, including Alexander, were buried before police could determine who they were.

Sheriff Tom Darts office exhumed the remains in 2011 and called on anyone who had a male relative disappear in the Chicago area in the 1970s to submit DNA. Moran said the sheriff's office also partnered with the DNA Doe Project, a nonprofit that compares DNA from unidentified crime victims to genealogical databases.

They found potential relatives for the individual known as Victim #5  distant cousins of Alexander  and the sheriff's office then asked Alexander's mother for immediate family members' DNA samples.

Clyde, who provided one of the samples that confirmed his brother's identity, said the advancement of DNA testing and genealogical data brought Wayne to us.

It's a miracle, he added.

Sanders said her family is still in shock but that everyone will rely on each other and their faith as they mourn her brother.

He suffered, I'm sure, she said. But he's not suffering anymore.
Donald Trump Jr. is taking aim at a longtime family foe  hes hawking a T-shirt that uses a tragic movie set shooting to mock Alec Baldwin, who famously skewered his father on Saturday Night Live.

A tee declaring Guns Dont Kill People, Alec Baldwin Kills People is selling for $27.99 on a merchandise site linked to the former presidents namesake son. The reference is to the Thursday slaying of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, who was hit by discharge from a prop gun while working on the Baldwin film Rust.

Baldwin, the films star, was handling the weapon from which the fatal shot was fired. The movies director was injured as well.

Trump Jr.s merchandise site also sells shirts that read My God, My Family, My Guns & My Freedom. The 43-year-old scion is a vocal gun advocate who frequently poses with firearms and posts photos of animals hes killed. Last year, he hosted an Alaskan hunting trip to raise money for Safari Club International.

The T-shirt Trump Jr. is pushing is in line with anti-Baldwin comments the former reality TV judge made on social media over the weekend. He suggested Sunday that Baldwin, a politically active progressive, would blame the gun for Hutchins being shot. Some like-minded Instagram users weighed in to suggest  without any evidence  that the killing was no accident.

Trump Jr. stuck to his guns amid criticism the T-shirt was in poor taste.

Screw all the sanctimony Im seeing out there, he said on Instagram. If the shoe was on the other foot Alex (sic) Baldwin would literally be the first person p--sing on everybodys grave trying to make a point. F*ck him!

As of Monday former President Donald Trump, who announced last week he was launching a new social media platform, had not commented on the matter.

But some right-wing pundits teed up on Baldwin after Hutchins death. Commentator Candace Owens accused Baldwin of the murder of innocent people, which she later corrected.

GOP Congresswoman Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Republican Senate candidate J.D. Vance of Ohio mocked Baldwin, with the latter asking that Donald Trump be reinstated on Twitter so he could address his TV tormentor.

Those comments drew fire from Vances Democratic rival in Ohio, Rep. Tim Ryan, who tweeted Someone died, you a--hole.

Even Fox News host Janice Dean urged Vance to take down his tweet.

Baldwins impression of Trump on SNL angered the ex-president, who questioned the long-running programs legality in a 2018 Twitter rant about unfair news coverage.

Trump and Baldwin feuded on Twitter in March of that year with the 45th president claiming the actors dying mediocre career was revived by his impersonation of the commander in chief. Trump was banned from the platform following the Jan. 6 insurrection at the Capitol.

Baldwin tweeted his feelings of shock and sadness following Thursdays fatal shooting and said he was cooperating with investigators. He had reportedly been told the firearm was cold.

According to a new affidavit, Baldwin was training his pistol on a camera when the shot was fired from his gun. Rust director Joel Souza reportedly claimed Baldwin was rehearsing a cross draw at the time of the killing. The filmmaker said he was looking over Hutchins shoulder and heard a whip and then loud pop before the two of them were struck.

CNN reported that camera operator Reid Russell heard Hutchins say she could not feel her legs as medics tried in vain to keep her alive. He also said in an affidavit that Baldwin had been very careful handling the gun on set.

Hilaria Baldwin, the 63-year-old actors wife, tweeted Monday her sympathies for Hutchins, her family and her own husband, as well.

My heart is with Halyna, she wrote Monday on Instagram. Her husband. Her son. Their family and loved ones. And my Alec.

A pair of vigils were held for Hutchins over the weekend. One took place in New Mexico, where she died. The other took place in Burbank, California, outside the International Cinematographers Guild. Her death inspired a push for safer film sets where guns are used.

People magazine reported a hysterical and absolutely inconsolable Baldwin had pulled out of upcoming projects while he tried to pull himself together. The victims husband, Matthew Hutchins, was photographed hugging Baldwin outside a Santa Fe Hotel where theyd reportedly met.

Baldwin had earlier tweeted he was in contact with the late cinematographers husband and that his heart is broken for her family and friends. Hutchins and her husband were married 16 years and have a 9-year-old son.


WASHINGTON (AP)  In March, as claims about the dangers and ineffectiveness of coronavirus vaccines spun across social media and undermined attempts to stop the spread of the virus, some Facebook employees thought they had found a way to help.

By subtly altering how posts about vaccines are ranked in peoples newsfeeds, researchers at the company realized they could curtail the misleading information individuals saw about COVID-19 vaccines and offer users posts from legitimate sources like the World Health Organization.

Given these results, Im assuming were hoping to launch ASAP, one Facebook employee wrote in March, responding to the internal memo about the study.

Instead, Facebook shelved some suggestions from the study. Other changes werent made until April.

When another Facebook researcher suggested disabling comments on vaccine posts in March until the platform could do a better job of tackling anti-vaccine messages lurking in them, that proposal was ignored at the time.

Critics say Facebook was slow to act because it worried it might impact the companys profits.

Why would you not remove comments? Because engagement is the only thing that matters, said Imran Ahmed, the CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, an internet watchdog group. It drives attention and attention equal eyeballs and eyeballs equal ad revenue.

In an emailed statement, Facebook said it has made considerable progress this year with downgrading vaccine misinformation in users feeds.

Facebooks internal discussions were revealed in disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugens legal counsel. The redacted versions received by Congress were obtained by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press.

The trove of documents shows that in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook carefully investigated how its platforms spread misinformation about life-saving vaccines. They also reveal rank-and-file employees regularly suggested solutions for countering anti-vaccine misinformation on the site, to no avail. The Wall Street Journal reported on some of Facebooks efforts to deal with antivaccine comments last month.

The inaction raises questions about whether Facebook prioritized controversy and division over the health of its users.

These people are selling fear and outrage, said Roger McNamee, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist and early investor in Facebook who is now a vocal critic. It is not a fluke. It is a business model.

Typically, Facebook ranks posts by engagement  the total number of likes, dislikes, comments and reshares. That ranking scheme may work well for innocuous subjects like recipes, dog photos or the latest viral singalong. But Facebooks own documents show that when it comes to divisive, contentious issues like vaccines, engagement-based ranking only emphasizes polarization, disagreement and doubt.

To study ways to reduce vaccine misinformation, Facebook researchers changed how posts are ranked for more than 6,000 users in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil and the Philippines. Instead of seeing posts about vaccines that were chosen based on their engagement, these users saw posts selected for their trustworthiness.

The results were striking: a nearly 12% decrease in content that made claims debunked by fact-checkers and an 8% increase in content from authoritative public health organizations such as the WHO or U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

Employees at the company reacted with exuberance, according to internal exchanges.

Is there any reason we wouldnt do this? one Facebook employee wrote in response.

Facebook said it did implement many of the study's findings  but not for another month, a delay that came at a pivotal stage of the global vaccine rollout.

In a statement, company spokeswoman Dani Lever said the internal documents dont represent the considerable progress we have made since that time in promoting reliable information about COVID-19 and expanding our policies to remove more harmful COVID and vaccine misinformation.

The company also said it took time to consider and implement the changes.

Yet the need to act urgently couldnt have been clearer: At that time, states across the U.S. were rolling out vaccines to their most vulnerable  the elderly and sick. And public health officials were worried. Only 10% of the population had received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. And a third of Americans were thinking about skipping the shot entirely, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Despite this, Facebook employees acknowledged they had no idea just how bad anti-vaccine sentiment was in the comments sections on Facebook posts. But company research in February found that as much as 60% of the comments on vaccine posts were anti-vaccine or vaccine reluctant.

Even worse, company employees admitted they didnt have a handle on catching those comments, or a policy in place to take them down.

Our ability to detect (vaccine hesitancy) in comments is bad in English  and basically non-existent elsewhere, another internal memo posted on March 2 said.

Los Angeles resident Derek Beres, an author and fitness instructor, sees anti-vaccine content thrive in the comments every time he promotes immunizations on his account on Instagram, which is owned by Facebook. Last year, Beres began hosting a podcast after noticing conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and vaccines were swirling on the social media feeds of health and wellness influencers.

Earlier this year, when Beres posted a picture of himself receiving the COVID-19 shot, some on social media told him he would likely drop dead in six months time.

The comments section is a dumpster fire for so many people, Beres said.

Some Facebook employees suggesting disabling all commenting on vaccine posts while the company worked on a solution.

Very interested in your proposal to remove ALL in-line comments for vaccine posts as a stopgap solution until we can sufficiently detect vaccine hesitancy in comments to refine our removal, one Facebook employee wrote on March 2.

The suggestion went nowhere until mid-April, when Lever said the company stopped showing previews of popular comments on vaccine posts.

Instead, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on March 15 that the company would start labeling posts about vaccines that described them as safe.

The move allowed Facebook to continue to get high engagement  and ultimately profit  off anti-vaccine comments, said Ahmed of the Center for Countering Digital Hate.

Facebook has taken decisions which have led to people receiving misinformation which caused them to die, Ahmed said. At this point, there should be a murder investigation.

___

Seitz reported from Columbus, Ohio.
PORTLAND, Maine (AP)  Federal prosecutors said Tuesday they have charged a Maine man with sexually exploiting a minor and transporting child pornography stemming from a case involving a Portland education technician.

Benjamin Conroy, 32, is accused of exploiting a 6-year-old autistic student at a Portland elementary school and then sending explicit images to a third person using a dating application, prosecutors said. They said he faces up to 30 years in prison for the top charge.
NEW YORK (AP)  An Ohio trader in penny stocks was arrested Tuesday on charges alleging he earned over $1 million illegally by lying repeatedly to his over 70,000 Twitter followers to get them to buy stocks in what authorities are calling a new social media-infused twist on an old stock manipulation game.

Steven Gallagher, 50, of Maumee, Ohio, was charged in New York federal court with securities fraud, wire fraud and market manipulation. He was arrested in Ohio. It was not immediately clear who would represent Gallagher at an initial court appearance in Ohio.

U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said in a release that Gallagher brought old-school boiler room tactics to the Twitter age, and operated a social media pump-and-dump scam that defrauded ordinary investors.

Ricky J. Patel, head of the New York office for Homeland Security Investigations, said Gallagher turned lies into cash.

Pump and dump stock schemes cause mistrust in the market and have real victims who often invest large sums of money, only to have their hopes shattered by a fraudsters greed, Patel said.

Court papers in Manhattan alleged that Gallagher began defrauding followers of a Twitter account he started in September 2019 under the alias Alex DeLarge, a gang leader character who commits violent crimes in the Anthony Burgess novel A Clockwork Orange. By last week, the account had over 70,000 followers.

Authorities accused Gallagher of secretly buying a substantial number of shares in at least six thinly traded securities known as penny stocks because they are usually worth less than $1 per share. They said he then touted them to followers to cause them to purchase the stocks and drive their values higher.

Then, Gallagher secretly sold his securities while continuing to promote them to his followers so he could gain the highest price possible for his own sales, according to a criminal complaint.

Meanwhile, he boasted of his stock picking prowess to his followers, regularly posting images of his brokerage account balance and gains on his Twitter account to boost his reputation and induce followers to do as he urged, the complaint said.

Trading in one company Gallagher promoted online  Minnesota-based SpectraScience Inc.  was temporarily suspended in February by the Securities and Exchange Commission, which said certain social media accounts may be engaged in a coordinated attempt to artificially influence the share price, the complaint said.

Kingston Moy, a Homeland Security agent who signed the complaint, wrote that he'd spoken to at least two investors who lost thousands of dollars after following Gallagher's advice. The agent said the investors were impressed with how many followers Gallagher had and that he seemed to post his own financial positions.

The agent also said he interviewed Gallagher on Monday and Gallagher confirmed that he controls the DeLarge Twitter account and that he had posted a tweet in July 2020 designed to boost the value of one of the stocks he had been promoting to his followers.
HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP)  Pennsylvania prosecutors have dropped a felony theft charge against a man who underpaid for a bottle of Mountain Dew by 43 cents.

Prosecutors in Perry County dropped the theft charge this month against Joseph Sobolewski, 38, and downgraded another charge, the Patriot-News reported Tuesday.

In August, Sobolewski went into an Exxon in Duncannon and saw a sign advertising two 20-ounce Mountain Dew bottles for $3, he said. He took one bottle, slapped $2 on the counter for what he thought was a $1.50 soda and walked out, not realizing the discount did not apply to a single bottle.

The bottle really cost $2.29, so including tax, he owed the store 43 cents.

State police found Sobolewski and arrested him on a felony charge. A judge ordered him held on $50,000 cash-only bond. He was in jail for seven days before his public defender successfully argued for his release, the newspaper reported.

Sobolewski had twice in the past 10 years been charged with theft, once for not paying for a tank of gas and another time for stealing a pair of shoes from a store. Under Pennsylvania's three-strikes law, a third theft charge must be a felony, regardless of the amount or value involved. He faced up to seven years in prison.

District Attorney Andrew Bender did not answer emails or calls from the Patriot-News. Sobolewski did not return messages seeking comment.

Sobolewski told the newspaper it was great news that the felony was being dismissed. I feel I was treated unequally because I had a record.

The newspaper previously reported that Sobolewski had been charged with theft in Cumberland County earlier in the summer on suspicion of trying to take items from a Hobby Lobby with his wife. For that charge, his bail was set at $2,000, and he is applying for a diversion program there.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP)  Florida fishing guide and environmental activist Paul Fafeita says a highlight for his charter customers is spotting the manatees that forage for seagrass in shallow waters. It's not so thrilling when they come across the emaciated carcass of a manatee that starved to death.

Its not good when youve got clients on the boat and all of a sudden theres a dead manatee, Fafeita, president of the Clean Water Coalition of Indian River County, said during a recent excursion in the Indian River Lagoon, a favorite hangout for the marine mammals along Florida's east coast. Theyre wanting to see them. They dont want to see them dead.

Florida is experiencing an unprecedented die-off of manatees this year, with 959 documented deaths as of Oct. 1. That's already more than any full year on record, and colder weather soon to come could bring another wave of deaths in a population that numbers between 7,500 and 10,200 along both Florida coasts, according to state estimates.

Manatee deaths this year will likely double the 593 recorded in 2020, and will far outnumber the latest five-year average of 146 deaths in Florida, according to state figures, with no end to the die-off in sight.

There is a huge sense of urgency, said Gil McRae, director of the state Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. Were uncertain how long its (high manatee deaths) going to be.

The reason? Seagrass on which the so-called sea cows depend also is dying as water quality declines due to fertilizer runoff, wastewater discharges and polluted water that is increasingly diverted on purpose from Lake Okeechobee to coastal estuaries.

These manmade pollutants can cause algae blooms so thick that seagrass can't get the sunlight it needs to survive, jeopardizing the manatees main food supply. Since 2009 about 58% of the seagrass has been lost in the Indian River Lagoon, state estimates show.

The cold hard fact is: Florida is at a water quality and climate crossroads, and manatees are our canary in the coal mine, said J.P. Brooker, Florida director for the Ocean Conservancy environmental group, in an opinion piece published by The Invading Sea, a collaboration of 26 Florida news outlets focused on climate change impact.

They are dying off in record numbers because we humans have made Florida waters inhospitable to them, Brooker said. It's not just our manatees at risk, it's a coast-wide ecological problem.

State and federal environmental officials are beginning a manatee habitat restoration program, armed with $8 million in state money approved this year by Florida legislators. They say with cooler winter months on the way, the tendency of manatees to congregate in warmer waters could mean many more of the creatures will starve before the restoration work is completed.

Seagrass restoration doesnt happen overnight. We cant really start planting seagrass until we have water quality improvements, said Michael Sole, vice chairman of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The winter is coming.

The commission is asking state lawmakers to approve another $7 million in the upcoming legislative session for seagrass restoration, manatee rehabilitation centers and other projects. At a committee hearing last week, McRae said researchers also are studying whether humans can feed manatees without harming them.

Those of you that have paid attention to feeding wildlife know that almost universally, it does more harm than good, McRae told lawmakers. But if the manatees' numbers keep plummeting, theres a possibility some level of supplemental feeding might be in order, he said.

Manatees have struggled to withstand humans for decades. Boat strikes kill dozens of the slow-moving animals despite no-wake zones in areas the animals frequent, and many more bear lifelong scars from such encounters. There are also threats from red tide outbreaks  and unusually cold weather.

They are gentle round-tailed giants, weighing as much as 1,200 pounds (550 kilograms) and living as long as 65 years or so. Manatees are Floridas official state marine mammal and are closely related to elephants.

Perhaps the best-known and oldest manatee in captivity, a male named Snooty, died at age 69, drowning after a hatch malfunctioned in his aquarium at a Bradenton museum in 2017.

Manatees were listed as endangered beginning in 1966 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, a designation downgraded to the less-stringent threatened category in 2016. A new push is on to list manatees as endangered once again to increase their long-term recovery chances.

Florida manatees desperately need us to help them by cleaning up and protecting their habitat, said Jaclyn Lopez, Florida director and senior attorney at The Center for Biological Diversity, a St. Petersburg-based nonprofit intent on saving imperiled species. The center and other groups plan to sue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to boost habitat protections for the manatee.

So far, the threatened designation has remained in place. A 2017 federal-state analysis pegged the chance of manatee extinction in Florida at less than a half-percent within the next 100 years.

Yet to environmental groups, the struggle of the manatee is a signal that humans are wrecking the coastal estuaries they and many other creatures need to survive.

The state Department of Environmental Protection has set in motion a program aimed at sharply reducing the load of harmful releases into the Indian River Lagoon by 2035.

The focus is on cutting introduction of nitrogen and phosphorous that is responsible for the seagrass-killing algae blooms. Projects to date have reduced releases of these nutrients by 37% of the ultimate goal, according to the state environmental agency.

Meanwhile, efforts to rescue and rehabilitate starving manatees continue at locations such as the SeaWorld theme park in Orlando to the Tampa zoo.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium in September announced plans for a $10 million manatee rescue and rehabilitation facility, the fifth of its kind in Florida.

A coalition of 16 environmental and business groups called this summer for Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis to declare the manatee die-off an emergency, which could focus resources and attention on the problem. DeSantis hasn't done it, contending at a news conference it would spook a lot of people and possibly trigger economic harm.

We have a lot of money at our disposal, the governor said.

Back out on the water, fishing guide and activist Fafeita said it's not just the manatees  seagrass reduction also affects other species such as blue crabs and speckled sea trout.

You know, the list just goes on and on and on, Fafeita said. Right now, our big concern is the manatee. Were not going to catch that many fish this year. Its affecting us some. The true impact to be next year.

_____

AP video reporter Cody Jackson contributed from Vero Beach, Florida.
MIAMI (AP)  Floridas surgeon general said that conversations while wearing masks aren't productive and that he offered to meet elsewhere when a state senator didn't let him in her office without a mask, citing a serious health condition.

Dr. Joseph Ladapo said in a statement released Tuesday that he offered to meet outside or in a hallway for his scheduled meeting last week with Democratic state Sen. Tina Polsky. He said he doesn't believe he can communicate clearly and effectively while wearing a mask. Polsky was not satisfied, he said.

I attempted in good faith to find some way for us to communicate that would respect each of our preferences, Ladapo said in a statement posted on Twitter. Having a conversation with someone while wearing a mask is not something I find productive, especially when other options exist.

The incident drew broad attention over the weekend after Polsky revealed that she had breast cancer, though at the time of the meeting last Wednesday she had told Lapado only that she had a serious health condition. Ladapo said in his statement that hes saddened by that news and wished her blessings and strength.

Ladapo had asked to meet her in Tallahassee as he seeks confirmation in the Senate.

Polsky said in a statement that Ladapos excuse for not wanting to wear a mask was absurd and insulting. Polsky said that after the meeting was abruptly canceled, Ladapo was heard saying to his aides that he was having fun arguing with the senator.

Further, physicians, nurses and support staff wear masks during surgery and other procedures where communicating clearly is literally a matter of life and death," Polsky said. "His outlandish notion that one cannot communicate with a mask on all but renders his qualifications as our states surgeon general an absurdity.

Democrats have voiced their opposition to the appointment of Ladapo in September by Gov. Ron DeSantis. A day after he was named to the post, Ladapo signed rules allowing parents to decide whether their children quarantine or stay in school after being exposed to COVID-19.

The tense exchange at the senator's office also drew criticism from the GOP. The Republican leader of the Florida Senate, Walter Simpson, said in a memo that it was disappointing, and that visitors should respect masking and social distancing requests of senators and staff within their offices even though the building has no mask mandate.

On Tuesday, U.S. Rep. Charlie Crist, who is challenging DeSantis in the gubernatorial race next year, said he was joining a group of local doctors to call for Ladapo's resignation.

DeSantis has opposed mask mandates in schools and said last week that he would call state lawmakers back to work early to pass legislation to fight vaccine mandates enacted by businesses.
CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP)  A former assistant public defender has settled his lawsuit against his boss and Charleston County for $605,000.

Beattie Butler accused Ashley Pennington, the county's top public defender, of violating his constitutional right to free speech when he was fired for raising ethics concerns about 9th Circuit Solicitor Scarlett Wilson and her office.

Butler accused Pennington of improperly trying to suppress complaints about Wilson from the public defender's office. Pennington denied that, saying Butler had a fixation on Wilson that became disruptive.

Neither Butler nor Pennington acknowledged wrongdoing. Butler dropped his lawsuit and Pennington dropped his defamation counter-suit. South Carolina's Insurance Reserve Fund and the Chubb North America insurance company are paying for the settlement as well as the legal bills of Pennington and the county, according to reporting by The Post and Courier.

Butler said he felt duty-bound to file complaints about Wilson with the state Supreme Court's Office of Disciplinary Counsel over alleged misconduct by prosecutors in various cases. This misconduct often involved prosecutors' failure to turn over evidence to defense attorneys before trial.

Butler alleged that Pennington forbade him from filing complaints, an accusation Pennington denies.

According to Wilson, the issues were already resolved in court with no findings of prosecutorial misconduct.

In February 2014, the South Carolina Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers filed a grievance, seeking an investigation into Wilson's office. In May 2014, Columbia lawyer Desa Ballard also filed grievances, seeking investigations into both Wilson and Pennington for alleged ethical violations.

State judicial officials ultimately dismissed the ethics complaints after finding no evidence to support their claims.

I regret that the State (and possibly its taxpayers) have to foot the bill for Mr. Penningtons conduct, Butler said in a statement. All I ever wanted was my job back.

According to Butler, the lawsuit could have been settled years ago if Pennington had agreed to rehire him with the same salary without having to work with his former boss. This resolution had been proposed by Pennington's own lawyers but according to Butler, he turned down the idea.

Pennington declined to discuss Butler's statement and Charleston County officials offered no comment to The Post and Courier.
BUDAPEST, Hungary (AP)  French far-right leader Marine Le Pen held talks Tuesday with populist Hungarian Prime Minster Viktor Orban in Budapest, a meeting the two politicians said advanced the cooperation of Europe's nationalist forces.

At a news conference in Hungary's capital following the meeting, Le Pen lambasted what she said was emerging ideological hegemony in the European Union, and she urged deeper cooperation among nationalist political parties that favor diminishing the EU's power over its member nations.

We have to have convergence, and this has to be our mode of existence, Le Pen said.

The visit reflected growing efforts by both Orban and Le Pen to consolidate the European right, including politicians and parties that share their anti-immigration views and opposition to the EU exercising certain legal powers over the bloc's 27 national governments.

Le Pen offered support to Orban in his governments conflict with the EU, which has accused Hungary of backsliding on essential rule of law commitments like media freedom and the independence of the judiciary. The EU has initiated legal action against Hungary and has yet to approve billions in post-pandemic recovery funds.

My message to the Hungarians is hold on and keep up, said Le Pen, who is expected to run in France's presidential election next year. You are projecting bravery to the nations of Europe and to freedom fighters.

Le Pen has also extended her support to Poland, which has a similar battle with the bloc. Last week, she met with Polish President Mateusz Morawiecki, a key Orban ally, on the sidelines of an EU summit in Brussels.

After that meeting, Le Pen tweeted that she and the Polish president had discussed the unacceptable blackmail of Poland by the EUs executive commission.

The bloc has accused Warsaw of undermining the independence of the judiciary and is threatening sanctions over Morawieckis insistence that Polish law trumps EU law.

But Le Pen on Tuesday emphasized the primacy of national laws, whether they comply with EU rules or not.

When sanctions are used to threaten people, especially Hungary and Poland, these are all efforts for new types of European hegemony," she said.

Le Pen's meeting last week with Morawiecki shocked many in Poland since the countrys ruling Law and Justice party has long refused to cooperate with the far-right politician over her warm relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin  a sensitive topic in the country that was long dominated by Russian and Soviet rule.

Orban receiving Le Pen in Hungary's capital also represented a pivot from the prime minister's earlier reluctance to be associated with the European far-right. In a 2019 interview for American magazine The Atlantic, Orban firmly ruled out any cooperation with the French politician, saying she was a red line."

"I have nothing at all to do with Madame Le Pen, Orban said in the interview.

But at the Tuesday news conference, Orban called Le Pen a sovereigntist and praised her for extending support to Hungary in its conflicts with the EU.

He said that Le Pen would be a partner in renewing the European right, and that this renewal can only happen if we enter into alliances with one another.

Both politicians are preparing for key elections next spring, with Orban facing the most serious challenge to his power since he took office in 2010.

Le Pen is aiming to unseat French President Emmanuel Macron but facing a potential challenge from rabble-rousing television pundit and author Eric Zemmour, whose anti-Islam and anti-immigration rhetoric has won over some of Le Pens base, according to polls.

Orban met Zemmour in Budapest last month, part of a series of meetings with right-wing nationalist politicians since his ruling Fidesz party left its center-right European political group, the European People's Party, in March.

Orban declined Tuesday to endorse either Le Pen or Zemmour, saying it was a decision for the French people.

___

Angela Charlton in Paris and Vanessa Gera in Warsaw contributed.
ATLANTA (AP)  Redistricting is like a game of musical chairs.

Some of the 180 seats in Georgia's state House and the 56 seats in the state Senate are going to get shifted to fast-growing regions around metro Atlanta and Savannah when a special session starts next week to redraw lines. And when the music stops, some lawmakers in south Georgia are going to be left without a chair.

At least one state Senate district and as many as four House districts may have to shift out of middle and south Georgia, while northwest Georgia could also lose a House district, according to an analysis by The Associated Press. Lawmakers must redraw electoral districts at least once every decade following the U.S. Census to equalize populations.

And it could be difficult for the majority Republicans to sacrifice Democrats and save their own members. There's only one rural white Democrat left in the General Assembly, Rep. Debbie Buckner of Junction City. There are many Black Democrats in rural areas, but wiping out their districts could invite voting rights lawsuits.

I know there are going to have to be some hard conversations had among friends," said Rep. Sam Watson, a Moultrie Republican.

His House District 172, covering parts of Tift, Colquitt and Thomas counties, needs to grow by more than 6,000 people to reach the ideal population of 59,511. Complicating that effort? All six districts that surround Watson's  all held by Republicans  are also below the ideal population.

That's a prime example of how Georgia saw starkly unbalanced population growth even as it added more than a million people from 2010 to 2020.

Population grew the fastest in regions around Atlanta and Savannah. But in a decade where a county had to grow by more than 10% just to keep up with the states overall growth, 53 of the 71 smallest counties lost population. Only one district south of Macon and west of the Atlantic coast  Bonaire Republican Shaw Blackmon's District 146 in Houston County  grew faster than the state.

It's not just a south Georgia story. Representation is also going to shrink in northwest Georgia, including suburban Chattanooga, Dalton and Rome. Rep. Steve Tarvin, a Chickamauga Republican, said there may be no way to add enough population to the regions districts to preserve all of them and keep all the Republican incumbents in separate districts.

It may end up that some of us have to run against each other, Tarvin said.

That could be especially true for Tarvin and Republican Rep. Mike Cameron, who lives only a short distance away in Rossville. Tarvin's District 2 needs to add more than 5,800 people to reach the ideal size, while Cameron's District 1, tucked into the Georgia's northwest corner formed by Tennessee and Alabama, needs to add nearly 6,800. Being in the corner limits map-drawing options, as the district can only grow south or east.

The situation may be most dire around Albany, where three House districts that share parts of Dougherty County are a combined 30,000 people short of ideal.

The Albany area and other areas, its going to be interesting to see what happens," said Rep, Dexter Sharper, a Valdosta Democrat.

Many House members have a shopping list to make their districts whole. Sharper would like his District 177 to grow northwest out of Valdosta to pick up the 5,400 people he needs. Rick Williams, a Republican from Milledgeville, thinks maybe he can make up his 8,000-person shortage by moving farther into neighboring Putnam County. But like Watson, both would have to take population from other districts that are already lacking.

The decline of rural population means more lawmakers will represent urban and suburban areas, and fewer ones will be vegetable farmers like Watson, chairman of the House Agriculture Committee. He's far from the only one concerned about shrinking rural influence.

All the issues that weve been working on, were not going to be able to make more progress if our numbers keep shrinking," Watson said.

It's also a threat to the traditional dominance of rural lawmakers, especially in the House. The only House speaker from metro Atlanta in more than a century was Glenn Richardson, a Republican from Paulding County who led the body from 2005 through 2009.

Most of the rural legislators tend to serve longer," Watson said. "They serve in the leadership. That makes us more valuable.

___

Follow Jeff Amy on Twitter at http://twitter.com/jeffamy.
WASHINGTON (AP)  A Republican secretary of state who challenged former President Donald Trump's false claims of election fraud in 2020 is the front-runner for a job heading the Biden administration's effort to protect future elections, according to people familiar with the discussions.

Kim Wyman, 59, has led elections in Washington state for years, and she was reelected to a third term in November  the lone statewide-elected Republican on the West Coast. She is in talks to serve as the election security leader for the Department of Homeland Security's Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, the agency responsible for safeguarding U.S. elections, the people told The Associated Press. The people had knowledge of the discussions but weren't authorized to speak publicly and spoke to AP on condition of anonymity.

Wyman would serve as the governments liaison to the states, a job that was high profile before 2020, and will only be more so following Trumps false claims about the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden, and the embracing of those false claims by other members of the GOP.

Trump and his allies made  and still make  false assertions that there was rampant election fraud in 2020, despite evidence to the contrary. Former Attorney General William Barr told AP there was no sign of widespread fraud. As Trump railed over the election, leaders of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency stated publicly that it was the safest election in history. One was fired by Trump shortly after.

Scores of lawsuits filed by Trump and his allies over claims of possible election fraud were dismissed by the courts, including by Trump-appointed federal judges.

Still, millions of Americans believe the 2020 election was stolen from Trump. That misinformation prompted thousands to storm the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 in a violent but failed effort to stop the certification of Biden's win.

The discussions involving Wyman were first reported by CNN. The White House declined to comment and the Department of Homeland Security didn't immediately respond to a request for comment. Wyman did not respond to a text message Monday, and her spokeswoman said they could not comment on the details of the story.

Last October, Wyman published the book Elections 2020: Controlling Chaos: How Foreign Interference, a Global Pandemic, and Political Polarization Threaten U.S. Democracy.

She was a constant presence on national networks in the weeks leading up to the 2020 election, extolling the safety and security of the vote-by-mail system in her state, a process in place there for years. She disputed Trump's claims that mail-in voting was fraudulent.

In interviews with AP before the 2020 election, Wyman said she was an elections administrator first and foremost.

If the president wants to rant and rave about how insecure vote by mail is or how our elections are going to be rigged, then Im going to talk about the security measures that Washington state put in place, she told AP in September 2020. And Im going to spend my time talking about the facts, and no, Im not going to get mired down in some sort of political debate and posturing.

Before the states 12 members of the Electoral College cast their votes for Biden in Olympia, Washington, in December, Wyman got emotional while talking to them about the vote they were about to take.

While some people continue to question the outcome of this election, average citizens from all walks of life will step up today to exercise their responsibility to perform their constitutional duty to the best of their ability, she said. This is an important ceremony. This is the American way of governance. This is democracy in action.

Wyman has never shied away from the fact that shes a Republican, but has said she believes shes approached the job in a nonpartisan way.

Its how you do the work every day, and my job is to inspire confidence in every voter no matter if they are a staunch Democrat or a hardcore Republican, she said last year.

___

La Corte reported from Olympia, Washington.
MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP)  Vermont Gov. Phil Scott said Tuesday he wouldn't reimpose a state of emergency that would authorize him to put a statewide mask mandate back in place as the delta variant has driven an increase in COVID-19 cases.

Speaking at the weekly briefing about the states response to the pandemic, Scott said he doesnt want to overuse the state of emergency power he has as governor.

Theres a time and a place for a state of emergency and I can assure you this isnt it," Scott said. And I believe that well get through this with all the measures, all the mitigation measures we put into place and doing all the right things and taking some self-responsibility. If I thought that the state of emergency would be helpful in this case, I'd impose it.

Scott said he's also more optimistic about the future of the pandemic then he has been in weeks: Booster shots have been approved for most people over age 18 who have already been vaccinated, the federal government is expected to authorize in the coming weeks vaccines for children aged 5 to 11 and COVID-19 case numbers are starting to decrease across the country and in Vermont.

Statistics released Tuesday show that the number of cases in Vermont dropped 15% in the last week and 7% in the last two weeks.

Well get through this," he said.

On Monday, a group of lawmakers, school nurses, and other medical professionals urged Scott to reinstate the state of emergency and indoor mask mandate. They said school staff, parents, hospitals and health care workers are stressed coping with the pandemic, some to the breaking point.

Scott and other administration officials said the current spike in COVID-19 cases during the surge in cases driven by the delta variant of the virus could also be due, at least in part, to the state's early success in getting people vaccinated.

He said the effectiveness of the vaccines has been shown to wane over time, which is why it's important for those who are eligible to get the booster shots. That's after at least six months for those who've received the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines or after at least two months for those who received Johnson & Johnson.

About 80% of eligible Vermonters have been fully vaccinated against the virus and nearly 90% have at least begun the vaccination process. Administration officials encouraged the just over 57,000 Vermonters who are eligible to be vaccinated and have not gotten the shot to do so.

But Scott said the demand for the vaccine boosters has not been as great as it was when the vaccines were first rolling out earlier this year.

As you heard us say, were being very liberal and broad in our interpretation of eligibility, Scott said. We want as many people as possible to get their booster as it gives you the most protection. This is especially true if youre over 65.
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP)  Three groups are asking the West Virginia Public Service Commission to reconsider a decision allowing Appalachian Power and Wheeling Power to keep three plants operational through at least 2040.

West Virginia Citizen Action Group, Solar United Neighbors, and Energy Efficient West Virginia filed a petition Friday asking the panel to revisit the issue, The Parkersburg News and Sentinel reported.
ORLANDO, Fla. (AP)  A local prosecutor has filed a motion to clear the names of four young African American men who were wrongly accused of raping a white woman more than seven decades ago in what is considered one of the greatest miscarriages of justice in Jim Crow-era Florida.

Prosecutor Bill Gladson filed a motion on Monday to dismiss the indictments of Ernest Thomas and Samuel Shepherd and to set aside the judgments and sentences of Charles Greenlee and Walter Irvin. The motion filed in state court in Ocala seeks to correct the record with new evidence in the case of the young men known as the Groveland Four," Gladson said. It will be heard by an administrative judge.

The evidence strongly suggests that a sheriff, a judge, and prosecutor all but guaranteed guilty verdicts in this case," Gladson said in his motion. These officials, disguised as keepers of the peace and masquerading as ministers of justice, disregarded their oaths, and set in motion a series of events that forever destroyed these men, their families, and a community. I have not witnessed a more complete breakdown of the criminal justice system.

The four Black men were accused of raping a white woman in the central Florida town of Groveland in 1949. During their ordeal, Thomas was shot and killed by a posse, and Shepherd was fatally shot by the local sheriff, Willis McCall. Irvin was shot and wounded by the sheriff and a deputy, and Greenlee was wrongly imprisoned. Future U.S. Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, then with the NAACP, represented Irvin during a second trial.

Both Greenlee and Irvin were eventually paroled after serving prison sentences. None of the men are still alive.

The Groveland Fours story was recounted in the Pulitzer Prize-winning book, Devil in the Grove" by Gilbert King, who was interviewed by the prosecutor as part of his review of the case.

The Florida Legislature in 2017 formally apologized for what happened, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and the states three-member Cabinet granted posthumous pardons more than two years ago. In 2018, then-Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi directed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement to conduct a review of the case. Earlier this year, the state police agency referred the case to Gladson's office.

As part of his review of the case, Gladson and an investigator interviewed the grandson of Jesse Hunter, the now-deceased prosecutor of two of the Groveland Four defendants. According to the grandson, Broward Hunter, his grandfather and a judge in the case knew there was no rape.

The grandson also suggested to Gladson, based on letters he found in his grandfather's office in 1971, that Willis, the sheriff who shot two of the Groveland Four defendants, may have done it because of the sheriff's involvement in an illegal gambling operation. Shepherd was believed to be involved with the gambling operation too, and Willis might have seen a rape case as a a way to get some people that were on his sh list," Hunter told the prosecutor and investigator.

Gladson also said in his motion that James Yates, a deputy who served as a primary witness, likely fabricated evidence, including shoe casts.

The prosecutor also had Irvin's pants sent to a crime lab in September to test for semen, something that was never done at Irvin's trial, even though jurors were given the impression that the pants were stained. The results showed no evidence of semen, the motion said.

The significance of this finding cannot be overstated," Gladson said in his motion.

___

Follow Mike Schneider on Twitter at https://twitter.com/MikeSchneiderAP
HONG KONG (AP)  Hong Kong will tighten COVID-19 restrictions despite a lack of local outbreaks to better align with Chinas policies and increase chances of quarantine-free travel between the territory and mainland, leader Carrie Lam said Tuesday.

It will step up contact tracing, such as requiring the use of its LeaveHomeSafe app in government premises to record the coming and going of visitors. It will also tighten quarantine rules to exempt only emergency workers or those in essential industries such as logistics. Currently, those exempt from quarantine include airline crew, banking and insurance executives, directors of public companies, as well as crew members on cargo and passenger ships, among others.

Hong Kong has not had a major local outbreak since the beginning of the year, with virtually no local transmission in recent months. But it is largely closed to international travel, and travelers from countries deemed high-risk such as the U.S. must serve a 21-day quarantine.

Currently, Hong Kong residents and non-residents who arrive in the city from the mainland are not required to serve quarantine, provided they fulfill certain conditions, such as testing negative for the coronavirus prior to their arrival.

Conversely, those who travel to the mainland from Hong Kong are still required to serve 14 days of quarantine in designated hotels, followed by seven days of home quarantine.

Authorities say resuming quarantine-free travel with the mainland is the top priority, compared to reopening travel internationally.

Lam said tightening restrictions to be more in line with mainland practices is necessary to give Chinese authorities confidence to resume quarantine-free cross-boundary travel.

If Hong Kong were to loosen the border controls for people arriving from overseas or adopt what other countries have done  to live with the COVID-19 virus, then the chances of resuming travel with the mainland will be reduced, she said at a weekly news conference where she wore a brace after recently breaking her arm.

She dismissed concerns that Hong Kongs restrictions will make it less attractive as an international business hub. Hong Kongs primary advantage lies in being the gateway to the mainland of China, she said.

The mainland government has maintained a zero-tolerance policy toward the pandemic, using lockdowns, quarantines and compulsory testing to stamp out COVID-19 outbreaks quickly.
PONTOON BEACH, Ill. (AP)  A police officer was shot to death Tuesday by a man at a gas station in an Illinois suburb of St. Louis, authorities said.

Pontoon Beach Officer Tyler Timmins, 36, died after being taken to a hospital, Illinois State Police Trooper Jayme Bufford said.

The officer was shot at around 8 a.m. at a Speedway gas station along Route 111 and was rushed to a hospital in nearby Granite City before being transferred a St. Louis hospital that specializes in the most critical cases, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Bufford said Timmins had approached a car in the gas stations parking lot because he suspected it had been stolen, and that a man began firing on him. The suspect was taken into custody.

The vehicle that apparently sparked the officers interest was a stolen Toyota Tacoma pickup truck with Missouri license plates.

Illinois State Police are investigating the shooting.

Bufford did not immediately release additional information, saying that the investigation is in its infancy."

Timmins joined the Pontoon Beach police force in April 2020, State Police Master Sgt. Elbert Jennings said. He was a police officer in Madison County for 14 years and previously served as a police officer in Roxana, Wordon and Hartford.

Edwardsville Police Chief Michael Fillback said officers throughout the area are filling in on patrol for Pontoon Beach because that city's officers were so shaken by the shooting.

___

This story was updated to correct that Michael Fillback is the Edwardsville police chief and that the slain officer's last name is spelled Timmins, not Timmons.
MASON, Ohio (AP)  A second Ohio city has voted to criminalize abortion within its limits, a largely symbolic move decried by abortion rights backers as unconstitutional at a raucous hourslong meeting.

A divided city council in Mason, a city of about 30,000 located 25 miles (40.23 kilometers) northeast of Cincinnati, approved the ordinance 4-3 Monday, deferring its effective date for 30 days. The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Republicans on the panel disagreed over whether the move was within the city's authority.

Anti-abortion and abortion-rights protestors demonstrated outside Mason's municipal building and filled the council chambers to capacity.

Neither Mason nor nearby Lebanon, which became the first city in Ohio to ban abortions in May, has any abortion clinics or is planning any. The Mason ordinance forbids possession within city limits of abortion-inducing drugs, including prescription misoprostol and mifepristone, but carries no penalties for someone seeking an abortion.

Misoprostol and mifepristone require a prescription and are administered in some doctors offices, abortion clinics and Planned Parenthood health centers.

The legislation included exceptions for accidental miscarriages, ectopic pregnancies and the life of the mother.

Mason Councilmember Mike Gilb, who voted yes, said, We should be clear that we dont support the business of death, that all lives matter, from the moment your heart starts beating to the moment it stops beating.

Councilmember Diana Nelson, who opposed the ordinance, said it defies the supremacy clause of the U.S. Constitution, which states that federal law takes precedent over state law.

Abortion remains legal in Ohio and the rest of the country following a 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision that said women have a constitutional right to seek an abortion.

Other small Ohio cities  Celina in Mercer County, and London in Madison County  are considering similar measures, part of a national effort emanating from Right to Life East Texas. Ohio is one of three states targeted so far.

Celina's city council voted 4-2 against an abortion ban there on its first reading Monday. The ordinance will still move forward to second and third readings.

Kersha Deibel, president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Southwest Ohio, said the Mason ban was not only outside the council's authority, it has now opened up the city of Mason to public ridicule, promised boycotts and costly litigation.

Mike Gonidakis, president of Ohio Right to Life, the state's largest anti-abortion group, said Mason is the 41st city nationally to ban abortion. He called the ordinance a stand against the violence of abortion and for the protection of women and babies.
DES MOINES, Iowa (AP)  An Iowa prison inmate will be charged with murder for the 2012 killing of a homeless man, police in Des Moines announced.

Police said William Rulli, 35, will face a first-degree murder charge after confessing to a corrections officer that he killed 56-year-old Stanley Golinsky nine years ago, television station KCCI reported.
DAMASCUS, Syria (AP)  Syrias electricity ministry signed a $115 million contract Tuesday with an Iranian company to rehabilitate a power station in a central province of the war-torn country, state media reported.

Under the agreement involving the two allies  who are both under U.S. sanctions  the Iranian company Peymanir will rehabilitate the Mhardeh power station in Hama province.
Baghdad (AP)  Gunmen from the Islamic State extremist group attacked a village northeast of Baghdad on Tuesday, killing at least 11 civilians and wounding six others, Iraqi security officials said.

The officials said the attack occurred in the predominantly Shiite village of al-Rashad northeast of Baqouba in Diyala province. The circumstances of the attack were not immediately clear, but two officials who spoke to The Associated Press said Islamic State group militants had kidnapped two villagers earlier and then raided the village when their demands for ransom were not met.
MINNEAPOLIS (AP)  The judge who oversaw the murder trial of former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin said Monday that he will make the names of 15 jurors and alternates who sat in the courtroom public next week.

Judge Peter Cahill's order said he will make the list of jurors public on Nov. 1. The written questionnaires of all 109 potential jurors who were formally evaluated will also be made public..

Chauvin, who is white, was convicted in April of second-degree murder, third-degree murder and manslaughter in the May 25, 2020 death of George Floyd. He was sentenced to 22 1/2 years for kneeling on Floyd's neck for 9 1/2 minutes as the Black man said he couldn't breathe.

Cahill initially kept the names of the jurors sealed, citing the high-profile nature of the case, and had ordered that their identities remain secret for at least 180 days after the verdict. A media coalition, which includes The Associated Press, had asked Cahill to release the jurors' identities, saying the media and public have a right to the information and there was no known threat to juror safety that would warrant keeping their names sealed.

Prosecutors had asked the court to keep the names secret, saying releasing them could subject jurors to harassment and make it harder to seat a jury for the trial of Chauvin's three codefendants next year.

Cahill acknowledged the jurors were called upon to carry out their duties in a case that played out on a stage of unprecedented public interest and press coverage in wake of tremendous social upheaval and civic unrest in Minneapolis and beyond.

But he said the law presumes that the names and questionnaires of jurors will be made available, absent a strong reason. At this point, he said, there is no strong reason to believe that jurors need protection from any external treats to safety, or that releasing their names would interfere with the fair and impartial administration of justice.

Two Chauvin jurors and one alternate have identified themselves and come forward to tell their stories since the trial, while the remaining 10 jurors and two alternates have not.
PHOENIX (AP)  A judge on Tuesday told lawyers that he will likely rule that a new Arizona law that prevents a majority of civilians from serving on police oversight panels is unconstitutional.

But Maricopa County Superior Court Judge John Hannah indicated that he was unlikely to strike down the whole state budget bill containing the police oversight provision that was challenged by the city of Phoenix.

The law took effect on Sept. 29 and is preventing Phoenix from appointing a director for its new police oversight office. Phoenix also is challenging a part of the criminal justice funding bill that expands an existing law that allows a single lawmaker to request an attorney general investigation into city or county laws.

The city alleged that the Republican-controlled Legislature violated provisions of the state constitution that require all bills to cover a single subject and that their titles reflect the bill's contents. The challenged parts were neither described in the title nor related to the subject matter in the criminal justice budget bill, the city said.

The very likely result is theres going to be something for everybody, Hannah said. "I do think the legislation violates the single subject rule, but Im not inclined to strike down the whole bill, just the parts that the city has challenged."

Hannah said a ruling is imminent, possibly by the end of the day. His comments came at the start of a brief hearing where he quizzed lawyers on details of handling an attorney fee request.

The judge's announcement of the expected ruling comes just a week before the Arizona Supreme Court hears arguments in a fast-tracked case involving four other acts that were part of the 11-bill budget package enacted by the Legislature in June.

Another judge blocked provisions in three of those budget bills because those items weren't identified in the bill title and declared another one completely void because it violated the constitution's rule requiring bills to cover just a single subject. Those rules were designed to prevent lawmakers from logrolling, or compiling a mish-mash of policy provisions into one bill and forcing lawmakers opposed to one part to back the bill while limiting public knowledge or debate.

Judge Katherine Cooper's Sept. 27 ruling prevented several parts of the budget package from taking effect as scheduled on Sept. 29, including a state ban on local school mask mandates and bans on other local COVID-19 restrictions.

The Arizona Supreme Court has accepted the state's direct appeal and will hear the case on Nov. 2.

The Legislature in the case Hannah is considering targeted civilian oversight offices and boards that Phoenix and other cities are creating to boost police accountability.

Republican lawmakers acted after Phoenix created a new Office of Accountability and Transparency designed to be led by a civilian to provide independent oversight of Phoenix police. The new ordinance passed in May also created a civilian oversight board to review police actions and policies.

The city ordinance barred any current or former Phoenix police officer from serving as the director of the office or on the oversight board.

The Legislature included provisions in the state budget criminal justice budget bill requiring at least 2/3 of any oversight board be certified police officers working for the agency it regulates. Phoenix contends that completely guts the new accountability office's independence.

The city also challenged a provision in the same budget bill that allows any lawmaker to request an attorney general's investigation into "any written policy, written rule or written regulation adopted by any agency, department or other entity of the county, city or town.

The provision is an expansion of an existing law known as SB1487 that penalizes local governments by withholding their state-shared revenues if they pass ordinances laws conflicting with state statutes. Cities and counties get a large part of their revenue from a share of sales and income taxes collected by the state.

Regardless of ones position on police oversight and S.B. 1487, those amendments deserved our Legislatures proper (and constitutional) consideration, according to the city's complaint.

Burying them in a massive budget bill covering eight subjects and 28 sections violated the state's constitutional mandate that bills be debated and passed on their merits, Phoenix attorney Jean-Jacques Cabou wrote.

The attorney representing the state, Patrick Irvine, told the court in his response that the city doesn't have the right to sue and that the issue is political in nature and does not belong in the courts. Irvine also said the provisions rightfully related to criminal justice" and a more detailed title isn't required.

Judge Hannah called Irvine and Cabou into court Tuesday to discuss how he can handle the attorney fees request in the case if he issues a ruling now that allows the parties to ask the Supreme Court to consider his ruling. The state and city agreed to let the attorney fee question await the high court's resolution of the other case.

If the Supreme Court upholds Cooper's ruling and the one expected from Hannah, it will have far-reaching ramifications for the GOP-controlled Legislature.

Lawmakers have long ignored the constitutional requirement that budget bills only deal with spending items, instead packing them with unrelated policy item. This year majority Republicans were especially aggressive, but that no longer would be possible.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP)  Police are searching for suspects in the shooting death of a man in a Kansas City parking lot near a hotel just south of Interstate 435 in the citys Brindlespur neighborhood.

Officers were called to the lot around 9:30 p.m. Monday and found the man with gunshot wounds. The man was taken to a hospital, where he died. Police did not immediately release the victims name.
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP)  Kansas' top court wrestled Tuesday with deciding whether the state constitution allows people to keep getting quick judicial decisions in lawsuits against COVID-19 restrictions such as mask mandates.

The state Supreme Court heard arguments from attorneys on a law that requires district courts to rule within 10 days when someone sues over a county restriction. Three of the seven justices expressed skepticism during a Zoom hearing that the law is constitutional.

But the court is considering an appeal in a case involving a lawsuit against a mask mandate imposed last year by a school district in Johnson County, the state's most populous county. And school districts aren't covered by the law that applies to counties  and a separate one mandating the same expedited legal process in lawsuits against school districts expired in June.

Kansas courts generally don't rule when there's not a live case involving parties needing a legal question resolved. Nevertheless, in July, a Johnson County judge handling the lawsuit against the school district struck down the law applying to county restrictions. He concluded that it denied counties their right to due legal process and interfered with the courts' power to handle their own business.

Supreme Court justices first must decide whether the case should have been dead before it reached them, then whether the law applying to county COVID-19 restrictions violates the Kansas Constitution. If it says yes to the first question, district courts still will have to rule quickly on lawsuits against counties.

Do we look at it as an abuse of discretion that the (district) court made this pivot? Justice Dan Biles asked during the hearing.

The Supreme Court did not say when it would issue a decision. It declined in August to put the law applying to counties on hold temporarily while considering the case involving the school district.

Both the law applying to counties and the earlier law applying to school districts arose from the Republican-controlled Legislature's opposition to Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly's response to the coronavirus pandemic and later, local restrictions. Lawmakers rewrote the state's emergency management laws several times.

Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for governor, has argued that Johnson County District Judge David Hauber never should have ruled on the constitutionality of the law applying to counties. The case before him  and now before the Supreme Court  involved parents upset with a mask mandate imposed last year by the Shawnee Mission school district in the Kansas City area.

Courts do not decide moot issues, particularly moot constitutional issues, Brant Laue, the state's solicitor general, told the court.

But Greg Goheen, an attorney for the Shawnee Mission school district, argued that the lower-court judge didn't abuse his authority because counties can impose mask mandates that apply to schools. Counties still face a very unworkable deadline for settling legal challenges to COVID-19 restrictions, he said.

"And I think the (lower) court has the ability to raise that issue," Goheen said.

The law says that if a judge doesn't rule on a lawsuit over county restrictions within 10 days, the people challenging them prevail automatically. Chief Justice Marla Luckert suggested the provision is a pretty heavy enforcement measure.

Luckert added, Isn't there some right to have a day in court?

But Laue argued that the Legislature has a great deal of authority in dictating how the state manages emergencies like the coronavirus pandemic.

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Follow John Hanna on Twitter: https://twitter.com/apjdhanna
A suburban St. Louis man alleges in a lawsuit that police officers punched, kicked and stomped on him before illegally searching the apartment he shared with his girlfriend after claiming he had committed a minor traffic violation.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court Monday on behalf of Tranell Stewart, 38, and his former girlfriend, Lisa Jones, against five Maryland Heights police officers and the city of Maryland Heights.

It accuses the officers of unlawful seizure, excessive force and unlawful search. It also accuses the city of liability, charging that Maryland Heights has not addressed years of police stopping and searching Black motorists at rates far above their representation in the city.

The city, the police department and the police union did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday.

Stewart pulled into the parking lot of his apartment complex on Oct. 26, 2016. Officer David Devouton pulled behind Stewart's car and told him he had failed to use his turn signal, which Stewart denied, according to the lawsuit.

When Stewart tried to get out of his car to get to his infant son from the back seat, Devouton grabbed Stewarts hair and tried to pull him to the ground, saying, Youre going to die today, the lawsuit says.

Another officer, Alex Waldroup, arrived and police threw Stewart to the ground, hit him and kicked him. After he was handcuffed, Waldroup stomped on his head and kicked him in the eye, according to the lawsuit.

Stewart said he initially pushed Devouton's hand off him, then tried to ward off the blows from other officers, while screaming for them to stop. But he said he did not initiate any contact or strike the officers.

Jones and a neighbor witnessed the attack. When Jones went toward the car to retrieve her infant son, Officer Cliff House pointed a gun at her and told her to stop, the lawsuit says.

Officers twice searched the couple's apartment, at one point threatening to arrest Jones for a traffic warrant and to have her children placed in protective custody if she did not sign forms consenting to the searches. They also seized a weapon that Jones legally owned.

Stewart suffered a fractured nose and a black eye and emotional pain and fear, and the illegal searches also caused Stewart and Jones concern for the safety of themselves and their children, the lawsuit said. It seeks compensatory and punitive damages but does not name a specific amount.

Stewart said in a statement released by ArchCity Defenders public interest law firm, which is representing him, that he wants police accountability. Jones is being represented by Kenneth Powell, of the Powell Law Firm.

"I want people to know how Maryland Heights police operate, Stewart said. I cant say anything positive, I cant say be safe because these are the people who are supposed to be protecting and serving us. Its like were under attack.

Stewart was convicted of resisting arrest in 2018 and sentenced to probation, according to court records.

The lawsuit accuses the city of not addressing years of unlawful seizures and searches involving Black people. When Stewart was arrested in 2016, Black drivers were pulled over at three times their demographic representation in the city, according to data submitted to the Missouri attorney general's office.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Louisiana poet laureate Mona Lisa Saloy and jazz-pop singer and songwriter Rickie Lee Jones are among scores of authors being featured over the next three weekends in the statewide Louisiana Book Festival. The separate Acadiana-based Festival of Words will take place during the second of those weekends.

Both festivals are online because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The book festival includes more than 40 programs in which more than 80 authors and presenters will discuss their books. Fifteen of the presentations are for children, tweens, and teens. Programs can be viewed on the Louisiana Book Festival YouTube channel.

The Festival of Words includes workshops led by its three featured authors  Cajun musician Louis Michot, artist and poet Malaika Favorite and essayist and poet Aimee Nezhukumatahil  and dramatic readings of work by those authors.

The book festival runs this Saturday and Sunday, and Friday through Sunday for the following two weekends, Nov. 5-7 and Nov. 12-14. The Festival of Words opens the evening of Nov. 6 and has events all day Nov. 7.

The book festival is free, as are Festival of Words readings. A $10 donation reserves seats for the Festival of Words workshops.

Saloy and the previous state poet laureate, John Warner Smith, will be talking with each other this Saturday during the Louisiana Book Festival. On Sunday, Nov. 7, Saloy will present eight other Louisiana poets.

Jones, whose 17 albums have brought her two Grammy awards, will talk with state librarian Rebecca Hamilton about her memoir Last Chance Texaco: Chronicles of an American Troubadour on Friday, Nov. 5.

Journalist, professor, columnist and political analyst Steven V. Roberts will talk about his book about his late wife, political reporter and analyst Cokie Roberts. Cokie: A Life Well-Lived describes a private life committed to celebrating and supporting other women as well as her pioneering public career in broadcast journalism.

Other participating authors include 2021 Louisiana Writer Award recipient Fatima Shaik, Tommy Greenwald, whose novel Game Changer won the Louisiana Young Readers Choice Award winning; David Armand (The Lords Acre), Alecia Long (Cruising for Conspirators), Robert Mann (Backrooms and Bayous), and Joshua Prager (The Family Roe).
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Louisiana is ending its statewide indoor mask mandate after emerging from its latest and worst coronavirus spike of the pandemic and seeing a sharp decline in new COVID-19 infections, Gov. John Bel Edwards announced Tuesday.

The decision marks one of the first mask mandates enacted for the delta variant-fueled outbreak to be scrapped.

I stand here today optimistic, relieved that the worst of the fourth surge is very clearly behind us now, Edwards said.

But while the Democratic governor is lifting the mask requirement for grocery stores, restaurants, bars and other sites, hes keeping some face-covering rules in place for Louisianas K-12 schools. Edwards said children have greater exposure risks, with students under 12 unable to yet get vaccinated against the coronavirus.

School districts that maintain tight quarantine regulations for students who come into close contact with someone who tests positive for COVID-19 wont be required to have a mask mandate. Those districts that dont require all exposed students to be sent home will have to keep students masked up.

The new regulations take effect Wednesday.

Despite the governor's decision, Louisiana State University said it will keep its indoor mask mandate through the end of the semester. New Orleans also indicated it wont necessarily follow Edwards' lead.

Edwards reinstated the mask mandate in August, when Louisiana had the nation's highest per capita COVID-19 infection growth and hospitals were inundated.

Since then, new cases and hospitalizations have fallen dramatically, and Louisiana now has one of the nations lowest rates of new infections.

Still, Louisiana continues to have one of the lowest coronavirus immunization rates in the country  with only 47% of the states population fully vaccinated.

We will remain vulnerable in Louisiana to another surge until we can get more of our friends, family and neighbors vaccinated, said Dr. Joe Kanter, the governors chief public health adviser.
BATON ROUGE, La. (AP)  Louisiana will receive $595 million in federal disaster block grant aid to help with housing restoration and other recovery needs from last year's back-to-back blows of Hurricanes Laura and Delta, the state's two U.S. senators announced Tuesday.

While welcomed by officials as critical to rebuilding efforts in southwest Louisiana, the money falls far short of the multibillion-dollar estimates of need, offering only about 20% of the $3 billion in assistance requested by Gov. John Bel Edwards.

It also comes 14 months after Laura wrecked the Lake Charles region, a delay that had locals questioning whether the nation had forgotten them.

It has been over a year since Louisiana was hammered by Hurricane Laura and this relief has taken far too long, Republican U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy said in a statement. This funding is a welcome first step, but there is more work to be done to return southwest Louisiana to wholeness.

GOP U.S. Sen. John Kennedy said the money will provide a helping hand as we rebuild.

Louisianians are still reeling from the damage left by Laura and Delta, he said in a statement.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development will oversee the block grant aid, which will require the state to outline plans for spending the money and receive federal approval of the plans. The state Office of Community Development will oversee the spending.

Edwards said Louisiana already is drafting its spending proposal for submission once HUD issues its regulations. But the Democratic governor also suggested the state will be requesting more assistance from Washington, saying the current amount is not in our view sufficient.

We will do everything that we can with the money we are given to make sure that there is a complete and robust recovery, but it will be very challenging to do that with $595 million, Edwards said.

The federal disaster aid was included in legislation passed by Congress last month that also helped avoid a government shutdown. Billions were set aside for disaster relief across multiple states. Louisiana had been waiting to receive its specific allocation figure.

Laura struck the southwestern parishes on Aug. 27, 2020, as a fierce Category 4 hurricane. Less than two months later, Delta swept into the same area as a Category 2 storm. Historic flooding followed in May. Across southwest Louisiana, homes still bear blue tarps and await roof repairs, businesses remain boarded up and some neighborhoods look almost abandoned. Thousands remain displaced.

The region has received hundreds of millions of dollars in disaster aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to help people with short-term needs and to help replace damaged government buildings. But the block grant aid will help with long-term housing assistance and other rebuilding work that didn't qualify for FEMA aid.

After the first estimates emerged about what Louisiana would receive for Laura and Delta recovery, Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter described the block grant money in a Facebook post as woefully insufficient" for the outstanding recovery issues, but he also said it will make a dent in our great housing need.

Cassidy has said the congressional delegation will keep making the case for more federal aid for southwest Louisiana, but he said that will be difficult to achieve.

Louisiana also is hoping to get additional disaster block grant assistance for its recovery from Hurricane Ida, which struck southeastern parishes on Aug. 29 as a Category 4 storm and left a widespread trail of damage.

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Follow Melinda Deslatte on Twitter at http://twitter.com/melindadeslatte.
GORHAM, Maine (AP)  The Maine attorney generals office has cleared a police officer in a shooting of a man who resisted arrest in a confrontation in a parking lot two years ago.

A report released Monday said Officer Dean Hannon shot and killed Kyle Needham, 32, in a Gorham parking lot after he ignored officers orders to turn off his car and show his hands. Needham was wanted on an arrest warrant from a high-speed chase and probation violations, The Portland Press Herald reported.
BOSTON (AP)  A mask mandate for Massachusetts public schools is being extended through this year, state officials said Tuesday.

The mandate, which applies to all students older than 5 and school workers, will now stay in effect through at least Jan. 15, state education officials said. It had been scheduled to expire Nov. 1.

Education Secretary James Peyser said it adds time to get more students vaccinated, especially younger children who are expected to have a COVID-19 vaccine made available to them in coming weeks.

This will be another big step forward in our efforts to keep school safe for our kids, Peyser said in a statement.

Schools can apply for a waiver from the face covering rules if 80% of their students and staff have been vaccinated. Few have hit that mark so far, with Hopkinton High School last week becoming the first to drop its mask requirement.

If a school reaches the 80% threshold, unvaccinated students and employees are still required to wear masks.

The mandate does not apply outdoors or when students and staff are eating or drinking. Students younger than 5 are not required to wear masks, but the state recommends it. The original mandate was announced in August.

Education Commissioner Jeff Riley said masks remain a simple and effective measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

About 1,800 students and 350 school workers tested positive for COVID-19 from Oct. 14 though Oct. 20, according to the latest data from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. That's out of about 920,000 students learning in-person and 140,000 employees.
BLOOMINGTON, Ill. (AP)  An Illinois State University graduate student who disappeared before being found dead died from drowning, a coroner said Monday.

Jelani Day, 25, was last seen Aug. 24. His family in Danville and a faculty member reported him missing after he did not show up for class for several days.
MADISON, Miss. (AP)  A racially diverse school in central Mississippi is honoring its namesake  a woman who was a leader in ensuring Black children received education when the state was deeply segregated.

Descendants of Rosa Scott were on campus Monday at Rosa Scott High School, a campus for about 400 ninth graders in the Madison County School District.

Because of her, many African American children began to be educated, Scotts great granddaughter, Maryann Gaylor Kennedy, told WLBT-TV.

Scott was born in 1874, educated at Fisk University and worked as a teacher and principal in Madison County. She led an effort to raise money for a school that opened in Madison in the 1920s.

Scott died in 1938, and her gravesite is part of the courtyard on the current campus. When a new school was built in 1959, it was named for Scott.

During the ceremony Monday, principals, educators and alumni talked about the schools impact and Scotts mission of advancement. Her family gave the school a copy of Scotts biography written by one of granddaughters, Rose Mary Collum Gaylor.

Students designed a flag for Rosa Scott school, giving replicas to the family.

Rosa Scott was a powerhouse," another of her granddaughters, Margaret Bernstein, told WJTV-TV. She really understood that education is the key to success, and she wanted to unlock that for Black children, so thats why it was important to be here today.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  Republican leaders in the Legislature on Monday approved a request by Democratic lawmakers to look into the Montana Department of Justice's involvement in investigating a complaint made by the family of a COVID-19 patient at a Helena hospital.

St. Peters Health said last week that three public officials threatened to use their positions to force doctors and nurses to treat the patient with ivermectin, a drug used for parasites that is not federally approved to treat the respiratory disease.

These officials have no medical training or experience, yet they were insisting our providers give treatment for COVID-19 that are not authorized, clinically approved or within the guidelines established by the FDA and the CDC, hospital spokesperson Andrea Groom wrote in an email to the Montana State News Bureau on Oct. 18.

Serious allegations have been made by St. Peters Hospital, said Senate President Mark Blasdel, while noting that several key facts reported in the media remain unclear. Blasdel said he and House Speaker Wylie Galt strongly believe in government transparency and accountability" and authorized the Legislature's special counsel "to examine any relevant government records in accordance with the law.

The hospital did not name the public officials who were involved, but Attorney General Austin Knudsens office confirmed a Montana Highway Patrol trooper was sent to the hospital to investigate the familys complaint and that Knudsen later participated in a conference call with hospital executives, the Montana State News Bureau reported.

Its unclear exactly when the Department of Justice became involved.

The woman's family reported that the hospital refused to allow her to receive prescribed medications, didn't deliver legal documents, didn't allow them to see her and at one point even cut off text messaging communication, Knudsen's office said.

Kyler Nerison, a spokesperson for Knudsen, said the investigation had nothing to do with the womans medical treatment, but was about allegations that the hospital mistreated her and violated her rights and her familys rights.

The hospital was providing care in accordance with clinical best practice, hospital policy and patient rights, Groom said.

Senate Minority Leader Jill Cohenour and House Minority Leader Kim Abbott requested the investigation last week and met with Blasdel and Galt on Monday to discuss the issue.

Cohenour and Abbott said they want special counsel Abra Belke to request emails, voicemails, records of phone and video calls, text messages, letters, memos and notes to determine which public officials were involved in the incident and to what extent, along with documentation of what led to a trooper being dispatched to the hospital. Helena Police usually handle security issues at the hospital.

They also want Belke to determine what policies and practices govern when and how the Justice Department and the Montana Highway Patrol intervene with local law enforcement and prosecutors and determine whether those policies were followed.

The Democrats said the information could help them determine whether the Legislature should have more oversight over the use of state law enforcement, whether legislation is needed to clarify the Montana Highway Patrol's jurisdiction and whether legislation is needed to clarify when the Justice Department can intervene. It could also help lawmakers draft legislation to prevent future such abuses of power.

We hope and expect as (Belke's) work proceeds, she will go wherever the facts take her in order to obtain information necessary for public accountability regarding this troubling incident, Cohenour and Abbott wrote Monday to the Republican leaders.

No Democratic lawmakers reached out to the Justice Department with any questions about the incident before requesting the investigation, Nerison said Monday.

As we've said from the beginning, no one was threatened or had their clinical judgement questioned while the Department of Justice was trying to get to the bottom of the allegations made against the hospital, he said in a statement.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  Legislative action on a final North Carolina state government budget  a plan with or without formal support from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper  could happen as soon as next week, a top Republican lawmaker said Tuesday.

House Speaker Tim Moore told reporters that he, Senate leader Phil Berger, and House and Senate Democratic leaders met in person Friday morning with Cooper to work on negotiations over a two-year spending plan. Berger and Moore had sent Cooper a counteroffer a few days earlier.

We had a very candid conversation, Moore said after a floor session. Berger's office confirmed that the Executive Mansion meeting with Cooper occurred.

Moore said Republicans expect to receive another offer from Cooper later this week, after which we hope to be able to proceed either with something the governor would sign next week or something the GOP-controlled legislature prefers.

Going forward without Coopers support could lead to a veto and attempts by Republicans to gain enough Democratic votes to complete an override.

The speaker said action could be delayed, however, as lawmakers attempt to approve new boundaries for U.S. House and General Assembly by the end of next week.

Cooper spokesperson Jordan Monaghan wrote late Tuesday by email that "discussions between the governor and the legislature did occur in person on Friday and are continuing this week.

GOP legislators largely have been reticent to discuss details on their points of contention with Cooper. But competing plans unveiled earlier this year show stark differences over tax cuts, education spending and teacher pay raises.

Moore reiterated Tuesday that broad Medicaid expansion to hundreds of thousands of low-income adults like Cooper has been pitching isn't something Republicans in his chamber will support. The legislature's budget offer to Cooper last week didn't contain an expansion component like what the governor seeks.

The state's fiscal year began July 1. State government still operates largely at the previous years spending levels even without a new budget law in place.
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP)  Another group of workers is suing Los Alamos National Laboratory over its COVID-19 vaccine mandate, arguing that the requirement discriminates against employees who sought religious or medical exemptions.

The complaint was filed Friday in federal court by the Thomas More Society, a Chicago-based law firm, on behalf of eight workers. Under the lab's policy, those with religious exemptions have to use vacation time or go without pay until they are allowed to return to work, and it's up to lab management to determine when its safe for them to return.

This is discrimination, pure and simple, special counsel Tyler Brooks said Tuesday in a statement. Los Alamos claims to have offered exemptions for those who have sincere religious reasons for not taking a mandatory COVID vaccine, but their one-size-fits-all so-called accommodation is flagrantly illegal. Accommodation by termination has never been a lawful option.

The lab said Tuesday in a statement that its most important asset is its workforce and that vaccination is the best tool it has to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at the lab, where nearly 99% of workers are vaccinated. However, the lab did not address questions about what protections it might offer its workforce given that state health officials repeatedly have warned that vaccinated people can still become infected and spread the virus.

The latest data from the state Health Department shows 27% of cases reported over the last four weeks have been among vaccinated people. Health officials have said they expect this number to increase as immunity wanes.

An effort by more than 100 engineers, technicians and other workers who sought to put the vaccine mandate on hold was rejected by a state district judge earlier this month, clearing the way for the lab to begin firing workers. Lab Director Thomas Mason told employees during a recent meeting that 185 workers had left over the mandate. About two dozen were granted medical exemptions, and more than 150 were granted religious exemptions.

The lab employs nearly 14,000 people.

The lawsuit argued that the lab refuses to detail its criteria for determining when COVID-19 levels are low enough for employees on leave without pay to return to work.

Defendants' approach is designed to maximize the uncertainty and anxiety of those employees ready and willing to return to their jobs in an effort to force compliance with their mandate despite recognizing that plaintiffs and others have a bona fide religious exemption to taking the vaccines, the complaint reads.

Lawyers for the workers said their clients stand to lose professional standing as well as security clearances as a result of the mandate.

The birthplace of the atomic bomb, Los Alamos is one of the nation's premier nuclear weapons facilities. It's under pressure to begin producing key components for the nation's nuclear arsenal and it conducts research on a wide range of topics from public health to energy infrastructure.

The law firm had asked Mason to revisit the vaccine policy but he declined, stating that the policy complied with state and federal laws.

Brooks noted that in Tennessee, a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order against Oak Ridge National Laboratory's vaccine mandate based on similar claims.

Aside from civil rights and constitutional violations, the lawsuit argued that the lab has refused requests for medical accommodations for those workers who have fully recovered from COVID-19 and have natural immunity.
RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  Organizers are celebrating the 2021 NC State Fair despite seeing its lowest attendance total in more than a decade due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

With preliminary totals collected through Sunday, officials said the fair drew 821,463 people, a 12% drop from 2019, the year before the pandemic erupted, The News & Observer of Raleigh reported. Attendance this year dropped lower than any year since 2008, when 765,067 people flocked to the midway, rides and exhibits.
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP)  New Zealand's government said Tuesday it will expand a vaccine mandate to include thousands of workers who have close contact with their customers  including employees at restaurants, bars, gyms and hair salons.

The changes will mean that about 40% of all New Zealand workers will need to get fully vaccinated against the coronavirus or risk losing their jobs, up from about 15% previously.

Speaking with reporters, Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she didnt believe the new rules were an overreach of government power.

This requirement means staff and customers are treated equally and it will play a big part in helping to minimize the spread of the virus in the highest-risk venues by reducing the potential for COVID to enter the business in the first place, Ardern said.

Workers who had previously been told they needed to get their shots included teachers and health care professionals.

Tuesday's announcement came just a few days after the government set a target of getting 90% of people aged 12 and over fully vaccinated in order to end the cycle of lockdowns.

Auckland, the largest city, has been in lockdown for more than two months after an outbreak of the delta variant.

As part of its plan to end lockdowns, New Zealand will also require people visiting high-traffic businesses to show vaccine passports to prove they've had their shots.

The conservative opposition National Party said there was no need for restrictions such as vaccine passports once vaccination targets were met.

Some businesses will choose to require proof of vaccination. Others will not, said opposition leader Judith Collins in a statement.
SEATTLE (AP)  A newspaper carrier involved in a January confrontation with Pierce County Sheriff Ed Troyer has filed a federal lawsuit against the county.

The lawsuit alleges Troyer violated the constitutional rights of the carrier, Sedrick Altheimer, by prompting a massive police response with claims to an emergency dispatcher that Altheimer had threatened to kill him, The Seattle Times reported.

Troyer walked back those claims amid questioning by a Tacoma police officer, leading the state attorney generals office to charge him last week with false reporting and making a false statement to a civil servant, both misdemeanors.

Troyer has denied wrongdoing and called the charges politically motivated. Lawyers representing him and Pierce County did not respond immediately to requests for comment from the newspaper.

The lawsuit claims Troyers actions on Jan. 27  calling in the police response after trailing Altheimer, who is Black, in his personal SUV and not identifying himself as law enforcement  amount to false reporting, unreasonable search and seizure, false arrest and malicious prosecution.

Altheimer wasn't arrested, but he was frisked and questioned by police. The lawsuit also alleges Troyer acted due to racial animus and reckless disregard for Mr. Altheimers civil rights.

Troyer, who is white, has said he did not know Altheimer's race when he began following him, saying he left his home because he thought he saw a suspicious car.

The lawsuit was quietly filed in September in King County Superior Court and transferred to U.S. District Court last week following a request by an attorney for Pierce County. It seeks damages for emotional distress and trauma as well as punitive damages and attorneys fees.

Altheimer in June filed a tort claim against the county as a precursor to the lawsuit, seeking at least $5 million.

Additionally, the Pierce County Council is expected to receive a report detailing findings of another investigation into Troyers conduct as early as Tuesday. That report, by former U.S. Attorney Brian Moran, is expected to focus on whether Troyer violated ethical standards and department policies, and to recommend potential sanctions if violations are found.

Troyer has faced calls for his resignation since January incident was reported publicly in March. He has refused to resign and vowed to fight the allegations against him.

We can either have a safe community where police are allowed to do their job or we can have the cops handcuffed and the criminals run free, he said in a statement last week.
LEXINGTON, N.C. (AP)  Two parents have been arrested in a child abuse case in which a 6-week-old was diagnosed with life-threatening injuries, a North Carolina sheriff's office said Tuesday.

The Davidson County Sheriff's Office said in a news release that deputies received a report on Saturday that an infant was brought to a local hospital. Detectives determined that the child sustained the injuries during the past week while in the care of its parents, the news release said.
BISMARCK, N.D. (AP)  The North Dakota Department of Health on Tuesday switched off comments on its social media accounts in an effort to stop the spread of misinformation, mostly about the coronavirus.

Spokeswoman Marie Moe said rhetoric on the agency's accounts had grown so heated that people were discrediting information about everything we posted.

There was lots of arguing back and forth, she said. We had people share stories of their loss of a loved one due to COVID, and then others demanding to see the death certificate.

North Dakota is at least the second state to take such a step, following Mississippi, which did it in July. Moe said her agency consulted with Mississippi before turning off comments.

U.S. health officials have said misinformation on social media platforms has caused some people to resist getting vaccinated against the coronavirus. North Dakota has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the U.S., with just over 60% of the population completing their doses despite the widespread availability of shots.

The state has also struggled with hospital capacity in recent weeks because of the spread of the highly contagious delta variant of the coronavirus. Gov. Doug Burgum and health officials have urged residents to take action to help ease the crisis, including getting vaccinated.

Moe said the move was based mostly on misinformation about coronavirus vaccines and treatments. But she said the problem had begun spreading to the agency's other guidance, including precautions for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

I think it discouraged people from coming to our site," Moe said.

The agency's announcement of the move for its Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube accounts said those accounts will continue to be a source for sharing verified public health information to help North Dakotans make informed decisions. The comment ban will be applied to all posts, and not be specific to any particular topic, the agency said.

The replies to that announcement on the agency's Facebook page were mixed, with some people applauding the agency, while others complained it was a free speech infringement that discounted other viewpoints.
SEATTLE (AP)  The latest state and city of Seattle data shows the number of government workers getting vaccinated against COVID-19 continues to increase amid mandates.

According to updated figures released by the Office of Financial Management, about 275 more Washington state employees have been verified as having gotten their shots since last weeks Oct. 18 deadline, The Seattle Times reported.

Gov. Jay Inslee had ordered state and school employees, as well as hundreds of thousands of health care workers, to be fully vaccinated by that date or lose their jobs. Seattle Mayor Jenny Durkan and King County Executive Dow Constantine imposed similar policies.

The figures released Monday also show slightly fewer state workers left or were fired over the mandate than agencies had originally reported.

The latest numbers show 1,785 workers left or were fired over the mandate, rather than the 1,887 announced last week. Some agencies were still sifting through data when they turned over the previous figures and determining the status of workers has continued since then.

The numbers will continue to fluctuate in the coming weeks.

For thousands of union and nonrepresented state workers, that Oct. 18 deadline wasnt firm: They still have time in the coming weeks to verify they are vaccinated, start the vaccination process or get an accommodation approved by the state. Workers that dont do any of those could still lose their jobs.

Last week, the city of Seattle had seen 94% of its 11,000 employees vaccinated.

In an email Monday, Durkan spokesperson Kamaria Hightower said an additional 128 city workers  roughly an additional 1%  have begun their vaccination process.

Across all departments, we have had little to no service impacts from the mandate, Hightower wrote, but the city will continue to monitor staffing situations closely.

At the Seattle Fire Department, 93% of 1,081 workers are now vaccinated.

As of Monday, 92% of the Seattle Police Departments 1,428 active workers are fully vaccinated, according to Hightower. Another 1% have begun the vaccination process.

All sworn officers not assigned to patrol are currently working in uniform in case theyre needed to handle 911 calls, according to the city.

This was done in order to reassure the public that 911 calls are the departments top priority and are being handled, according to Hightowers email.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP)  Kentucky police responding to a domestic disturbance fatally shot a man early Tuesday who fired at officers, officials said.

Louisville Metro Police officers were responding to an argument at an apartment and were informed that a male at the scene was armed, police spokesperson Beth Ruoff told news outlets.

While on scene, the man grabbed the gun and fired at officers, Ruoff said. At least one LMPD officer fired their weapon, striking and killing the man. Body camera video captured the incident. The Kentucky State Police are leading the investigation.

No officers were injured. Further details were not immediately released.
Madoka Ikegami/AP

ISLAMABAD (AP)  In a rare joint appeal, the leaders of Pakistan and China on Tuesday urged the international community to swiftly send humanitarian and economic aid to Afghanistan, where people are facing food and medicine shortages in the shadow of winter.

A government statement said Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed Afghanistan by phone, saying afterward that people there need international help to alleviate their suffering, prevent instability" and rebuild after the United States withdrew and the Taliban seized power in August.
BERKELEY TOWNSHIP, N.J. (AP)  Governments, academics and scientists are proposing an ambitious effort to improve the health of Barnegat Bay, the fragile New Jersey waterway that has been loved to death.

The Barnegat Bay Partnership, a constellation of groups dedicated to helping the bay, on Tuesday unveiled a detailed and far-reaching plan to improve water quality, increase the number of days that bay beaches are open for swimming, increase the amount of shellfish, and address an explosion of jellyfish in the bay that are making parts of it difficult to use.

Officials from federal, state and local governments signed the pledge, but it remains to be seen what, if any, specific actions will be taken in furtherance of those goals. Many groups say they will begin or continue projects aimed at improving the overall health of the bay.

The Barnegat Bay in its current state is a jewel of the Jersey Shore, but it has some serious problems, said Stan Hales, director of the partnership. The bay has been loved to death.

Environmentalists and government officials have long recognized threats to Barnegat Bay, including rampant development along its shorelines and interior watershed areas, and the resulting flow of pesticides and nitrogen from lawn fertilizer and agricultural uses that makes its way into the bay.

That helps contribute to decreased oxygen levels, which harms fish, shellfish and plant life, and which can turbocharge jellyfish populations, which thrive in degraded water.

We're getting harmful algae blooms, low dissolved oxygen and shellfish declines as well, Hales said.

In 2010, New Jersey adopted a 10-point plan to help the bay, including setting the nation's toughest limits on the amount of nitrogen that can be sold in fertilizer.

But it still has not adopted a central goal of scientists and environmentalists: setting daily limits on the amount of pollutants that can be allowed to make their way into the bay.

Shawn LaTourette, the state's environmental protection commissioner, said his department supports the plan, and is planning future regulatory changes that should help meet its goals.

Our state is ground zero for climate impacts, including rising sea levels, more intense and frequent storm events and flooding, and increasing temperature, he said. He praised the plan's focus on a holistic watershed approach, storm water management solutions, nature-based engineering to promote resiliency, and education and outreach programs focused on water quality and watershed health."

The plan announced Tuesday has specific goals including increasing the area of shellfish beds open for harvesting by at least 5%; maintaining nearly 13,000 acres of submerged aquatic vegetation; maintaining at least 21,000 acres of tidal wetlands and restoring additional areas through nature-based strategies; and restoring the hard clam population to levels last seen from 1985 to 1987: about 370 million. The most recent estimate, from a decade ago, was 224 million.

Governments and agencies that signed the plan include the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the state Department of Environmental Protection, Ocean County, local mayors, Stockton University and Ocean County College.

The bay is everyone's responsibility, not just the EPA or the DEP of local towns, Hales said.

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Follow Wayne Parry on Twitter at https://twitter.com/WayneParryAC
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (AP)  A man died and two others -- including a teenage girl -- were wounded after shootings at a central North Carolina apartment complex, police said.

Officers arriving at the Rolling Hills Apartment complex in Winston-Salem on Monday evening located the 16-year-old girl and a 31-year-old woman, both with gunshot wounds, Winston-Salem police said in a news release Tuesday.
ST. LOUIS (AP)  At least three people died in separate shootings around St. Louis on Monday, including a shooting in the citys Benton Park West neighborhood, police said.

That shooting happened around 11:30 p.m. Monday, officials said. Police did not release any other details of the shooting.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. (AP)  Police found two people shot  one fatally  in the Quindaro Bluffs neighborhood of Kansas City, Kansas.

The shooting was reported around 10:30 p.m. Monday, police said in a news release. Arriving officers found two people with gunshot wounds, including one who died at the scene. The other person was taken to a hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening.
WATERBURY, Conn. (AP)  A 14-year-old boy was shot in the head and then dropped off at a Waterbury hospital, police said.

The teenager was left at St. Marys Hospital early Monday morning with a gunshot wound to the back of his head, Waterbury police said in a news release. The boy was later transferred to Connecticut Childrens Medical Center in Hartford, where he was being treated for a life-threatening injury, police said.
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP)  Authorities say a 45-year-old man told police he shot and killed two people in a Portland, Oregon, apartment building after voices inside his head told him to while he was under the influence of methamphetamine.

The Oregonian/Oregon Live reports that Michael S. VanDomelen pleaded not guilty to two counts of first-degree murder during an arraignment in Multnomah County Circuit Court on Monday. The Portland man is being held without bail.

Police have not identified the victims, but court documents say a man and woman were found dead inside an apartment in Old Town, Portland, around 6:25 a.m. Sunday. The deaths, which mark the 68th and 69th homicides, are the latest in the city's deadliest year  surpassing the previous record of 66 set in 1987.

A resident of the apartment building told police that he went into the hallway after hearing shots fired on the third floor and saw a male and female who had been shot inside an open apartment, according to a probable cause affidavit filed Monday.

The witness told police that he encountered VanDomelen in the hallway and asked if he knew who shot the victims.

I did, VanDomelen said, according to court documents.

Police arrested VanDomelen at the scene and found a 9mm handgun in his pocket. Officers say while in the squad car VanDomelen admitted to shooting two people.

The three-story building where the shooting occurred is run as a single-resident occupancy hotel by Central City Concern, with most residents receiving rent subsidies through Section 8, according to the organizations website. Police say Sunday's shooting involved two residents and one guest.

The shooting is the fifth double homicide in Portland this year.
NEW YORK (AP)  Prince Andrews lawyer asked a New York judge Tuesday to keep sealed a 2009 legal agreement that he says can protect the prince against a lawsuit's claims that he sexually assaulted an American woman when she was under 18.

The request was made in court papers in Manhattan federal court, where U.S. District Judge Lewis A. Kaplan is presiding over an August lawsuit filed on behalf of Virginia Giuffre. The lawsuit said the prince abused her on multiple occasions in 2001 when she was 17 and a minor under U.S. law.

Attorney Andrew Brettler, representing Andrew, said he is preparing written arguments to ask that the lawsuit be dismissed and wants to include under seal an agreement which he contends bars the lawsuit against Andrew. Brettler has called the lawsuit baseless.

He also requested to redact any portions of his arguments that reveal information in the agreement.

Brettler said neither the prince nor Giuffre contend that the release agreement must remain sealed, but they wanted to ask that it stay secret because it is subject to a protective order from another judge presiding over a federal civil action in New York.

The agreement was reached between Giuffre and Jeffrey Epstein, who was found dead at age 66 in his cell in 2019 while awaiting a sex trafficking trial at a New York federal jail. His death was ruled a suicide.

Brettler said the agreement releases Prince Andrew and others from any purported liability arising from the claims Ms. Giuffre asserted against Prince Andrew here.

A pretrial hearing pertaining to the lawsuit is scheduled for next week.

In late 2019, Andrew told the BBC that he never had sex with Giuffre, saying, It didnt happen.

Earlier this month, British police announced that they won't take any action against the prince after conducting a review prompted by Giuffre's claims. They also said no action would result from allegations that Epstein's alleged accomplice, Ghislaine Maxwell, trafficked, groomed and abused women and girls in the U.K.

Maxwell, a British socialite and Epstein's onetime girlfriend, goes to trial in November in New York on sex trafficking charges. She has pleaded not guilty.

The Associated Press does not typically identify people who say they are victims of sexual assault unless they choose to come forward publicly, as Giuffre has done.
On Monday, Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker outlined coordinated statewide efforts to prepare for the anticipated approval of the Pfizer vaccine for children aged 5-11 with nearly 6.2 million children testing positive for COVID-19 over the course of the pandemic.

Joined by Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Ngozi Ezike and other pediatric healthcare professionals, the governor announced the administration is partnering with pediatricians, local health departments, schools and other organizations ahead of the expected emergency-use authorization from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Federal Drug Administration.

Once the Pfizer vaccine is authorized for use in children ages 5-11, more than 2,200 locations and providers statewide are already enrolled to provide the vaccine. Illinois is expected to receive an initial allotment of approximately 306,000 doses for the states youngest residents, with an additional 73,000 doses for the City of Chicago, and well over 100,000 additional doses headed to the federal governments pharmacy partners in Illinois. Overall, the initial allocation will amount to approximately 500,000 doses available to children in Illinois.

"Thanks to scientists and doctors whove worked tirelessly for the last year, we are likely just days away from having the COVID-19 vaccine available for 1.1 million more Illinois children, ages 5 to 11," Pritzker said in a statement. "As soon as the FDA and the CDC have signed off, these kid-sized doses and kid-sized needles will be shipped out to pharmacies, pediatricians and other providers across Illinois  and IDPH has reached out to every pediatrician in the state to enroll them in the vaccine distribution program. As a parent, you should call your pediatrician now to make sure theyve enrolled and have ordered doses. And I will do everything in my power to continue to follow the science and keep our kids safe."

As vaccination rates among adults increase, positive COVID-19 cases among children have spiked. For the week ending Oct. 14, one in four cases nationally were children, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.

In preparation for administering shots to the 1.1 million children across the state who will become eligible for the vaccine in the coming days, IDPH is enrolling pediatric offices to provide COVID-19 shots. There are more than 2,200 locations and providers statewide that have already enrolled to provide COVID-19 vaccinations to the 5-11 age bracket. That includes more than 700 pediatric and family medicine practices, more than 700 pharmacy locations, approximately 100 urgent care locations, 112 local health departments and public health clinics, 270 federally qualified health centers, more than 200 hospitals, and dozens of rural health clinics.

"Now that authorization has been granted, it is critically important that we get as many children vaccinated as quickly as possible, in order to provide them with the ultimate degree of protection," Ezike said. "IDPH is partnering with practices of all sizes, healthcare systems, and physician associations across the state to ensure the vaccine is readily available as soon as parents and guardians request it for their children."

To make access to the pediatric vaccine as equitable as possible, the administration is also coordinating with federally qualified health centers, local health departments and family practitioners.

IDPH is also overseeing outreach to 756 elementary school districts across the state to offer parent-approved vaccination clinics on school grounds, just as was offered to all relevant school districts when the COVID-19 vaccines were made available to 12-17-year-old students. The Illinois Emergency Management Agency-IDPH mobile vaccination teams have already conducted over 4,000 events statewide, including more than 870 school and youth events for older students. An additional 350 vaccine clinics among older students have been planned for the coming weeks.

More than two-thirds of Illinois's 12-17 population has received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, Illinois is currently the only state in the Midwest to hit this milestone.

The Pfizer vaccine consists of two doses given three weeks apart followed by a two-week wait for maximum immunity. To further ensure the health and safety of Illinois children, the state is requiring current, mandatory training for all vaccine providers on the pediatric vaccination guidelines.
INDIANAPOLIS (AP)  An external review of Indianas state police agencies found they need to bolster the recruitment and promotion of minority and female officers and increase training about racial bias.

The findings are part of a 100-page report released Monday that was commissioned by Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb following demonstrations across the country and state last year protesting the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis.

The consulting firm Hillard Heintze acknowledged attempts by Indiana State Police to recruit more diverse officer candidates, while citing that white men made up more than 80% of promotions and reassignments during 2018-20.

One agency strategy of sending white officers to barbershops and restaurants in predominately Black communities to talk about the job was viewed as offensive or patronizing by some Black ISP officers, according to the report.

The ISP provides its members with cultural awareness education and training taught by command-level personnel, demonstrating its importance to the organization. However, this training does not include a discussion of implicit bias or actions officers could take to reduce the influence of implicit bias when interacting with their colleagues and community members, the study said.

Holcomb said in a statement that the report, which also reviewed the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, state excise police and other state-run police agencies, was part of a commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment.

I will continue to do my part to assure the citizens of Indiana that law enforcement officers are operating according to the highest standards, Holcomb said.

Some of the reports recommended changes have rolled out throughout the consulting firms yearlong review process, including the distribution of body cameras to front-line state troopers.

The Indiana Black Legislative Caucus argued Holcomb wasnt going far enough with police reforms last year, but state Rep. Robin Shackleford, the groups chairwoman, said she looked forward to implementation of the reports recommendations.

Id like to thank Governor Holcomb for initiating this third-party review as a response to IBLC and community outcry, said Shackleford, an Indianapolis Democrat. It is encouraging to see many of the social justice initiatives that the IBLC has been advocating for, such as the use of body cameras and implicit bias training, be reaffirmed in Hillard Heintzes review.

The report also cited a lack of diversity among instructors at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, which trains most police officers for local departments.

In response, academy leaders said officials are still reviewing the report but welcome the opportunity to improve and standardize law enforcement training around the state and look forward to the challenge.
SALT LAKE CITY (AP)  Former U.S. Rep. Rob Bishop, a Utah Republican, abruptly quit the state's independent redistricting commission after criticizing it for favoring urban areas.

Bishop said Monday that the commission's congressional map proposals favored Democrats. The commission will present its map proposals to the Legislature's redistricting committee on Nov. 1.

This is a metro-centric group, Bishop said during the meeting. When five of the seven are from the Wasatch Front... the majority are from Salt Lake County, we see things in a different way.

House Speaker Brad Wilson, who appointed Bishop to the panel, said he shared Bishop's frustrations with the commission and that he does not plan to appoint a replacement.

His decision to step down at this point in the process is further evidence that the duly elected representatives of the people are best suited to redraw district boundaries, as the courts have repeatedly affirmed, Wilson said in a statement.

Better Boundaries, the group behind the 2018 ballot initiative that created the independent commission, said they were disappointed by Bishop's resignation.

Moving forward, we are encouraged by the work of the remaining six commissioners to suggest objective and qualified maps to the state legislative redistricting committee through this fair and transparent process," said Better Boundaries Executive Director Katie Wright.
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WASHINGTON (AP)  The Senate confirmed two prominent anti-Trump Republicans to serve in the Biden administration on Tuesday with former Sen. Jeff Flake of Arizona approved to serve as the ambassador to Turkey and Cindy McCain, the wife of the late Sen. John McCain, approved to serve as the ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture.

The Senate also voted to confirm former Democratic Sen. Tom Udall of New Mexico to serve as ambassador to New Zealand and Victoria Reggie Kennedy of Massachusetts, the widow of former Sen. Ted Kennedy, to serve as ambassador to Austria.
BOSTON (AP)  A convicted sex offender is being charged in the killing of a woman whose body was found in the basement of a Boston building more than three decades ago, according to Suffolk County District Attorney Rachael Rollins.

Richard Vega, 59, faces a murder charge and is set to be arraigned in Suffolk Superior Court this month. He is already being held after a jury previously determined he was sexually dangerous.

Prosecutors say DNA evidence linked Vega to the 1988 killing of 21-year-old Judy Chamberlain, whose body was found in a building in what is now Boston's Seaport neighborhood. Police found that she had been strangled and sexually assaulted.

Vega was identified as a suspect in 2011 after a federal database matched his DNA profile to evidence from the 1988 killing, according to Rollins' office, but prosecutors at the time did not think they had enough evidence to bring charges.

Vega had been required to submit a DNA sample after he was convicted of rape in a 1987 attack on an elderly woman in Revere.

Vega was sentenced to up to 20 years in prison for the 1987 attack, and a jury in 2008 found that he was sexually dangerous and should remain at a corrections facility.

Investigators recently collected new evidence in the case allowing them to bring the case to a Suffolk County grand jury, prosecutors said. A jury returned an indictment Aug. 30 charging Vega with Chamberlains murder.

It was not immediately clear if Vega has obtained an attorney for the case.

Ms. Chamberlains family has been waiting 33 years for answers, Rollins said in a statement. We were finally able to offer those answers some three decades later. Ms. Chamberlains life mattered.

The investigation got fresh attention from authorities as part of a recent effort to solve Boston-area cold cases dating to the 1960s. Rollins started the initiative, known as the Project for Unsolved Suffolk Homicides, when she took office in 2019.

The effort has led to murder indictments in two other killings, from 1995 and 1980, according to the district attorney's office.
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP)  An open container citation issued to an Alaska state lawmaker has been dismissed because the trooper who issued the citation is no longer in state employment after being accused of sexual abuse of a minor.

State Sen. Josh Revak, an Anchorage Republican, was cited in August for driving with an open can of beer in his car. Revak said he has been sober for seven years after using alcohol heavily following his return home after being injured in the Iraqi War, the Anchorage Daily News reported.

Instead, state Sen. Scott Kawasaki, a Fairbanks Democrat, has said the beer was his. The two were driving from Anchorage to a fishing event on the Kenai Peninsula when they were stopped near Sterling for doing 66 mph (106 kph) in a 55 mph (88 kph) zone. Both lawmakers said Revak did not know beer was the beverage in the container.

The trooper issued Revak a $220 citation but did not charge him with speeding. Revak said he planned to challenge the ticket in court Wednesday before the charge was dismissed last week.

The trooper who issued the ticket was arrested and charged two weeks ago on suspicion of sexual abuse of a minor.

Troopers spokesman Austin McDaniel told The Associated Press on Tuesday the man was no longer employed by the state but declined to elaborate because it was a personnel issue.

When a trooper leaves service, their open investigations such as burglaries are turned over to other troopers to continue the case. However, troopers indicated that in those cases when a trooper who is no longer with the state has issued citations or is involved in other cases where court dates were involved, the state court system would have to weigh in.

In Revaks case, the courts sent a request for the trooper who cited Revak to attend the court hearing Wednesday. However, the agency responded that the trooper is no longer employed by the state.

Since that trooper handling the Revak case was patrolling alone in his cruiser, there was no other trooper present who witnessed either the alleged speeding or open container in Revaks car, prompting troopers to also ask the court to drop the citation, McDaniel said.

Revak said he planned to donate the money he would have paid if found guilty on the citation to an alcohol rehabilitation group. Kawasaki said he would match that donation.
SACRAMENTO, Calif.  Three months after Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom required state workers to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or undergo weekly testing, his pledge that California government would lead by example has not been fulfilled: Many public agencies face low vaccination rates, and most state-run workplaces have failed to test unvaccinated employees.

At the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, for example, less than a third of employees have provided proof they are fully vaccinated, while 6,700 employees are either not vaccinated or have declined to provide their status. Cal Fire said it is testing just 75 employees.

The Department of Motor Vehicles, where 59% of employees are fully vaccinated, has about 3,600 unvaccinated staffers working in offices across the state who are required to be tested weekly. But only 411 of them are being tested, a DMV spokeswoman said.

Some departments have failed to report vaccination rates or testing information altogether, but the California Department of Human Resources said the data it has received show that roughly half of 59,000 unvaccinated state employees were tested as required during the first week of October.

If we dont have the warning system of testing, then we need to reconsider what we are doing, said Dorit Reiss, a law professor who specializes in vaccine policies at the University of California, Hastings College of the Law. Testing is not a great substitute for vaccinating, but its a great backup and better than nothing.

The states struggle to implement Newsoms mandate comes as workplaces across the nation are imposing deadlines for workers to provide proof of vaccination or risk losing their jobs.

Last week, enforcement of Washington Gov. Jay Inslees COVID-19 vaccine mandate resulted in 3% of state workers  about 1,900 employees  resigning or being fired. The Biden administration has also announced stringent new requirements, including pending labor regulations that would require businesses across the country with 100 or more employees to ensure that workers are fully vaccinated or undergo weekly testing.

Newsoms Aug. 2 deadline for California government workers, however, was largely ignored without consequence. Overall, 66% of the states employees provided proof they are vaccinated, according to data from the state Department of Human Resources. Statewide, 74% of residents 18 and older are fully inoculated.

This is problematic, said Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease expert and professor of medicine at UC San Francisco. The entire point of Gov. Newsom being the first governor to say state employees should be vaccinated is because these employees are public interfacing, and the vaccine protects them and the public they serve. Then, if the testing component isnt being universally applied, you are defeating the point.

Under the states mandate, employees who work remotely full time are not required to provide vaccination proof  although many have  and do not have to undergo weekly testing. A little more than half the states 10,000 California Highway Patrol employees have provided proof they are vaccinated, a spokeswoman for the department said. Some testing sites have been opened, including at CHPs headquarters, but not all.

Since we started testing, we have completed 2,088 tests with two confirmed positive results, CHP spokeswoman Fran Clader said in a statement.

The department did not respond to a request for details on how many employees are being tested weekly.

At Cal Fire, testing is available at the departments headquarters, where 75 employees are being tested weekly, said spokesman Nick Schuler. Plans are underway to add testing at six additional sites in early November.

Demands of wildfire response in July, August and September slowed our progress implementing testing, but we now expect to have several of the testing centers up and running within weeks, Schuler said.

The rate of positive results for departments that are testing has remained low. A DMV spokeswoman said there were four positive tests among 2,070 given to date. And among all departments reporting results to the states human resources agency, there were 155 positive tests out of 31,534 completed during the week of Oct. 4.

Public health officials, however, have warned that cases can climb again if residents are not vigilant in protecting against transmission of the coronavirus. New infections and COVID-19 hospitalizations have been steadily falling for weeks, but daily death counts have remained relatively high, Times data show. Over the last week, the state has averaged 5,203 new cases and 105 deaths per day. To date, COVID-19 has killed more than 70,000 Californians.

Dr. Mark Ghaly, secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, urged hesitant state workers to get vaccinated in a letter last month, writing that he had a wake-up call when reading about another tragic, preventable loss of a member of our state family to COVID-19, leaving a wife and two young children behind.

I realized that I havent done enough, Ghaly said. I should say, we havent done enough.

Newsom announced the vaccine mandate for state workers at the same time he implemented one for health care workers.

As the states largest employer, we are leading by example and requiring all state and health care workers to show proof of vaccination or be tested regularly, and we are encouraging local governments and businesses to do the same, the governor said in July.

So far, the push to vaccinate millions of health care workers appears to have been more successful, a likely result of the mandate not allowing for those employees to opt for weekly testing in lieu of vaccination unless they had an exemption. Health care workers were allowed medical and religious exemptions, which have been granted subjectively in different parts of the state, according to Times reporting. Many hospitals said the state mandate boosted vaccination rates, with a hospital system in Kern County reporting that its rates jumped to about 90% from about 60%.

The vaccination rate for state workers has seen a much smaller increase of just 2 percentage points to 66% over the course of one week, the states Human Resources department said. However, not all departments are reporting data for their staff regularly  or in some cases, at all.

Nearly one-third of all state agencies reported employee vaccination rates lower than 74%, the statewide rate among adults for inoculation. At the states Human Resources department, which is tasked with monitoring compliance with the mandate, 62% of the agencys workforce is vaccinated.

That didnt surprise me, said Eraina Ortega, director of the department. The vast majority of our employees are in the Sacramento region, and that number seems in line with the region.

Ortega said many state employees are still telecommuting and do not feel the urgency to provide their vaccination status if they wont be required to undergo regular testing.

Not all employees want to provide the vaccine verification before the testing is set up, Ortega said. In my own department, I heard from people early on that they have to get the vaccine information in, but they are teleworking and so they havent done it yet.

Ortega said that testing thousands of unvaccinated state workers is a massive undertaking and that the effort has been slowed by supply shortages. She said there is no hard deadline for when departments have to begin testing unvaccinated employees. So far, she said, 48 out of 152 state departments have testing up and running at some or all of their locations.

The scaling we anticipated is happening, Ortega said. I feel we have done a pretty good job of doing this entirely with state staff.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, Newsom has championed some of the nations strongest coronavirus restrictions, but hes also faced criticism that his vaccine orders have been inconsistent. The governor fought attempts to require corrections employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19, despite recommendations from a federal court-appointed receiver overseeing medical care inside prisons who argued that a strict mandate is necessary to prevent major outbreaks and deaths. Currently, all prison staff who work in health care settings are required to be vaccinated.

The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has a vaccination rate of 63% among its 66,000 employees, according to the agencys data. Currently, unvaccinated prison staffers must be tested twice weekly.

The data collected by the human resources agency do not include information from Newsoms office, which operates independently. A spokeswoman for the governor said all but one of the 148 employees in Newsoms office are vaccinated, with that person subject to the weekly testing protocol.

Newsom spokeswoman Erin Mellon said the state is ramping up testing efforts among Californias many departments.

It has been a monumental effort to organize regular, free testing across the state workforce of more than 200,000 people, Mellon said in a statement.

Rob Lapsley, president of the California Business Roundtable, said the problems arising from the states mandate for its employees show that further scrutiny and transparency are necessary so that businesses are able to better understand the logistical hurdles they, too, may face.

The business community is watching the states whole implementation very carefully because the mandate and testing protocols have real-life implications for if and when a mandate comes from the state or federal government for the private sector, Lapsley said. To the governors credit, hes having the state lead on this so there can be some lessons learned by them going first.
SAN DIEGO (AP)  A TikTok star with nearly a million online followers pleaded not guilty on Monday to shooting and killing his newly estranged wife and a man she was with last week at a San Diego high-rise.

Prosecutors said Ali Abulaban had surreptitiously installed a listening device on his 5-year-old daughters tablet device, and when he heard his wife and another man talking, he went to her apartment and shot them to death, the Union-Tribune reported.

After the shootings, Abulaban, still armed, picked up his daughter from school, Deputy District Attorney Taren Brast said.

The details were revealed during the San Diego County Superior Court arraignment for Abulaban, who pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder as well as special-circumstance allegations of multiple killings, the newspaper reported.

Brast said outside court that Abulaban, 29, is a TikTok star known as JinnKid, with more than 940,000 followers on the social media app. His account features comedy skits and impersonations of the character Tony Montana from the 1983 film Scarface.

Abulabans attorney did not comment on the allegations during the hearing.

Police identified the victims as Ana Abulaban, 28, of San Diego and Rayburn Cadenas Barron, 29, of National City.

About two dozen family members and friends of the two victims packed the courtroom. Several of them sobbed as Brast shared details about last Thursday's killings in San Diego's East Village neighborhood.

Brast said Ali Abulaban confessed to detectives and accused his wife of cheating, although the prosecutor said she believes Barron was a friend.

According to Brast, Ana Abulaban had asked her husband to move out Oct. 18. He checked into a hotel.

Three days later, Brast said, Ali Abulaban sneaked back into the apartment and trashed it while his wife was gone. He also installed the listening app on his daughters iPad.

Hours later, Abulaban was listening to the app when he heard his wife and a man talking and giggling, Brast said, and he raced back to the high-rise. Security camera video showed him running out of the elevator to the apartment.

Brast said Abulaban shot Barron three times before shooting his wife in her head. Abulaban then called his mother and confessed, Brast said.

After he picked up his daughter, he called police while driving and they arrested him 45 minutes later. His daughter was in the vehicle.

Judge Kimberlee Lagotta ordered Abulaban jailed without bail. The judge also issued a protective order that requires Abulaban to stay away from his daughter, who is being cared for by family.
LOS ANGELES  Neal W. Zoromski has spent three decades in Hollywood, working on movies big and small, but never on a western. So he was thrilled last month when he was asked to join the crew of an Alec Baldwin film in New Mexico.

The veteran prop master immediately told "Rust" production managers that he was interested in the job that would give him responsibility for the accoutrements of the Old West. Pistols, rifles, wagons, saddles and flour sacks were needed to re-create 1880s Kansas for Baldwin, who was playing a grizzled outlaw named Harland Rust.

But during four days of informal discussions with film managers, Zoromski said he got a "bad feeling."

"There were massive red flags," he said in an interview Sunday with the Los Angeles Times.

He said he felt that "Rust" was too much of a slapdash production, one with an overriding focus on saving money instead of a concern for people's safety. Production managers didn't seem to value experience and were brushing off his questions, he said.

Zoromski ultimately told "Rust" production managers that he would take a pass.

"After I pressed 'send' on that last email, I felt, in the pit of my stomach: 'That is an accident waiting to happen,'" he said.

Last Thursday, Baldwin fatally shot 42-year-old cinematographer Halyna Hutchins in the chest with a prop gun while rehearsing a gunfight scene inside a wooden church at the Bonanza Creek Ranch movie set near Santa Fe, New Mexico.

Baldwin, who also is an executive producer on the film, was practicing removing his revolver from its holster and aiming it toward the camera. "Rust" director Joel Souza, who also was injured, told a Santa Fe County Sheriff's detective that he heard "what sounded like a whip and then a loud pop."

Hutchins, a rising star in the industry, crumpled over, and fellow crew members struggled to treat her wound. She was later airlifted about 50 miles away to an Albuquerque hospital, where she was pronounced dead. She left behind a husband and 9-year-old son.

Production has been shut down, and Santa Fe County Sheriff's deputies and the New Mexico Occupational Health and Safety Bureau are investigating the accident.

Tensions were boiling on set. On Thursday, the 12th day of a 21-day production, union camera operators and their assistants had walked off the job to protest working conditions. Nonunion camera operators were brought in, and the switch put the director behind schedule. The assistant director had yelled at the script supervisor during lunch, according to a copy of the 911 recording.

Days earlier, a camera operator had reported two accidental gun discharges during a rehearsal in a cabin. "This is super unsafe," the camera operator wrote in a text message to the production manager, the Times reported Friday.

The tragedy occurred amid a boisterous debate within Zoromski's union, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, over whether to go on strike to seek better pay and improved conditions on film and TV sets.

The "Rust" producers late last week released a statement: "The safety of our cast and crew is the top priority of Rust Productions and everyone associated with the company. Though we were not made aware of any official complaints concerning weapon or prop safety on set, we will be conducting an internal review of our procedures while production is shut down. We will continue to cooperate with the Santa Fe authorities in their investigation and offer mental health services to the cast and crew during this tragic time."

Now, Zoromski, who lives in Los Angeles, is haunted by Hutchins' death. He believes that had he accepted the "Rust" job, things would have turned out differently.

"I take my job incredibly seriously," he said. "As the prop master, you have to be concerned about safety. I'm the guy who hands the guns to the people on set."

Zoromski, 57, didn't grow up wanting to be in the movie business. Born in New Zealand, he traveled around the world with his adoptive parents before moving, at age 5, with his mother to Rhode Island. He graduated from Boston College with a biochemistry degree.

He had planned a career in the pharmaceutical industry, but he was in need of a job. He worked at a restaurant in L.A., in retail, and then at a cutthroat commercial real estate brokerage on L.A.'s West Side.

Finally, a friend steered him to Roger Corman's B-movie studio, where he was hired to work as an art department assistant. His first day on the job, he was sent to a horse barn where they were shooting the 1990 film "The Haunting of Morella." The barn was dilapidated, and tiny cracks between wall timbers allowed sunlight to seep in and ruin the camera lighting.

An art director ordered Zoromski to stuff hay into the cracks to block out the sun. He spent the day meticulously gluing hay strands to fill the seams between the boards. The art director was impressed with his diligence, and he was hired.

Zoromski then worked on TV movies and music videos with Paula Abdul, Madonna and Guns N' Roses before moving to feature films.

He's worked on several major productions, including in the props department on Roland Emmerich's 2004 "Day After Tomorrow," with Jake Gyllenhaal and Dennis Quaid. He was prop master for Jason Reitman's 2005 film, "Thank You for Smoking."

It was 9 p.m. Sept. 20 when the "Rust" production manager, Row Walters, reached out to see if Zoromski was interested in becoming the props master for the film. An hour later, Zoromski replied via email that he was "very interested." The two sides engaged in conversations throughout that week.

But Zoromski later changed his mind, citing several concerns.

He said he felt that "Rust" production managers were being "evasive" when he asked about specific terms of his potential employment. The budget, estimated at about $7 million, seemed too small for the type of film the producers were attempting to make. He couldn't get an answer on the budget for his "kit," industry jargon for his cache of props needed to stock the set.

He said he also became alarmed because it was just two weeks before "Rust" was set to begin filming in New Mexico and the producers hadn't yet hired a prop master. Typically, those decisions are made weeks, even months, before the cameras roll.

"In the movies, the prep is everything. ... You also need time to clean, inspect and repair guns," he said. "You need time to fix old clocks. In period films, you are sometimes using antiques. But here, there was absolutely no time to prepare, and that gave me a bad feeling."

And the deal breaker?

Zoromski said he initially asked for a department of five technicians. He was told that "Rust" was a low-budget production and that plans were to use items from a local prop house. He modified his request to have at least two experienced crew members: one to serve as an assistant prop master and the other as an armorer, or gun wrangler, dedicated to making sure the weapons were safe, oiled and functioning properly.

But the "Rust" producers insisted that only one person was needed to handle both tasks.

"You never have a prop assistant double as the armorer," Zoromski said. "Those are two really big jobs."

Walters, the production manager, sent Zoromski an email Sept. 24 that read: "We'd really like one of the assistants to be the armorer that can push up on the gunfights and heavy armor days," according to a copy of the email shared with the Times. (Walters did not respond to requests for comment.)

Zoromski replied: "Unfortunately, I have to pass on this opportunity. I am grateful for your interest and wish nothing but the very best for you, your crew and the show."

Three days later, 24-year-old Hannah Gutierrez-Reed announced on Facebook that she had a new gig on a film in Santa Fe, according to a screen shot of a recent social media post, which was shared with the Times. She'd landed the job as the "property key assistant/armorer" on "Rust," according to the production notes.

Now, questions are being raised about Gutierrez-Reed's experience and her performance on the job. Gutierrez-Reed had worked as head armorer on only one other production before "Rust."

According to search warrants, she left three weapons on a rolling cart outside the church setting at midday Thursday. Souza, the film's director, told a Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office investigator that multiple people had been handling the guns and that he wasn't sure whether anyone had checked them for safety after the group came back from lunch.



(Staff writer Amy Kaufman contributed to this report.)
COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP)  Sweden which has stood out among European nations for its comparatively hands-off response to the pandemic, has passed the threshold of 15,000 deaths with COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic, according to official figures released Tuesday.

Thomas Linden of the National Board of Health and Welfare, told Swedish public radio that it was difficult to say whether Sweden has an unusually high excess mortality due to the virus.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  The top Republican in the Wisconsin Assembly, who ordered an investigation into the 2020 presidential election, said Tuesday that more subpoenas may be needed and that the work could stretch into 2022.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos also said it was possible he would try to force the state's top elections official to submit to an interview with attorney leading the investigation before a judge holds a hearing on the validity of the subpoena. Democratic Attorney General Josh Kaul sued last week in an attempt to block the subpoena.

A judge on Monday set a Dec. 23 hearing on the matter. Kaul did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

Vos, at a news conference ahead of the Assembly session on Tuesday, said that it was certainly possible if not likely he would not wait until then to have Wisconsin Elections Commission administrator Meagan Wolfe meet with lead investigator Michael Gableman, a retired Wisconsin Supreme Court justice.

Gableman's contract, which allots $676.,000 in taxpayer money for the investigation, runs through the end of December. Vos said it was not his goal to have the probe go past the end of the year, but it might have to go longer.

The nonpartisan Legislative Audit Bureau released its much-anticipated review of the election on Friday, making 48 recommendations and possible law changes to improve how elections are run, including adopting rules on whether ballot boxes should be allowed and whether missing information on absentee ballot envelopes should be filled in by election workers.

On Monday, Senate Republican leaders said they were launching their own investigation in response to the audit, even as multiple Republican lawmakers said it showed that elections were safe and secure.

Vos said the audit showed that the Wisconsin Elections Commission, which is overseen by a bipartisan board, is mismanaged and needs to be held accountable.

A spokesman for the elections commission did not immediately return a message seeking comment.

President Joe Biden won Wisconsin by more than 20,000 votes, a result that has withstood recounts, court challenges and the audit bureau review which found no widespread fraud. Only four people out of more than 3 million people who cast ballots in Wisconsin have been charged with election fraud.
LAS VEGAS (AP)  A 69-year-old Las Vegas woman is accused of defrauding Social Security for years after she allegedly dismembered her dead husbands body and threw his remains in the trash, according to a federal criminal complaint.

Nancy Shedleski deposited $121,000 of her husband's retirement benefits after his 2015 death, and Social Security officials didn't know anything was wrong until they received an anonymous tip in 2019 that the husband had disappeared, according to the complaint filed last week in Nevada.

The complaint, which charged Shedleski with theft of government money, identified the husband only as J.P.S." and said he was in his 70s when he died.

Survivor benefits for Shedleski in 2019 if her husbands death had been reported would have been $14,000, but her husbands benefits that were distributed that year totaled $24,000, the complaint said.

When contacted by federal officials, Shedleski initially said her husband was traveling, but she later admitted to dismembering his body and disposing of his remains after he died at their Pennsylvania home, the complaint said.

Shedleski confirmed there was no ambulance, no hospitalization, no funeral, no burial and no cremation," the complaint said.

The complaint did not specify the husband's cause of death or say where the couple lived in Pennsylvania before Nancy Shedleski moved to Las Vegas in 2017.

The complaint said her husband last received medical care in 2015 at Jefferson Regional Medical Center in Jefferson Hills, which is near Pittsburgh.

Shedleski was arrested last Thursday and appeared in court in Las Vegas on Friday. She was not asked to enter a plea and was released on her own recognizance pending a Nov. 5 court hearing.

Her court-appointed lawyer, Wendi Overmyer, did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment on Shedleski's behalf.
IONIA, Mich. (AP)  A woman sentenced to 27 years in prison Tuesday after being in a drunken driving crash that killed a Michigan state trooper.

Thomasina Jones pleaded guilty last week in Ionia County Circuit Court to second-degree murder, operating a vehicle with a high blood-alcohol content causing death, operating a vehicle while intoxicated, and driving on a suspended, revoked or denied license.
PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP)  A Rhode Island woman was sentenced on Monday to seven years in prison for a drunk driving crash that killed one person and injured two others, according to Attorney General Peter Neronha.

Barbara Trojan, 63, of North Kingstown, was sentenced in Providence County Superior Court after entering a plea of no contest to one count of driving under the influence resulting in death and two counts of driving to endanger.
CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP)  Requiring workers to get vaccinated against COVID-19 would result in up to $10 million in fines and at least $500,000 in damages under bills Wyoming lawmakers will consider in a rare special session that began Tuesday.

In all, they plan to look at 20 proposals  including a few having nothing to do with President Joe Biden's plans to require COVID-19 vaccination for certain workers  over the next several days after legislators debated whether to adjourn without considering anything at all.

The House and Senate voted to move ahead despite rejecting time-saving rules to limit testimony and debate and prohibit bills unrelated to COVID-19 vaccination in an effort to wrap up the session in just three days.

If this is important enough for us to assemble here, its important for us to do it right, said Sen. Chris Rothfuss, D-Laramie, who voted against the special rules and in favor of adjournment.

Other lawmakers warned of high stakes, saying they expected the Biden administration to release details of its COVID-19 vaccination mandate for health care workers, federal contractors and large businesses early next week.

In five days we are going to have hundreds of people, potentially thousands, who are going to lose their jobs because of a mandate," Rep. Chuck Gray, R-Casper, said.

Gray is lead sponsor of a bill co-sponsored by 11 others that would allow people denied work because they're not vaccinated to collect at least $500,000 in civil damages. A bill sponsored by Rep. Bill Fortner, R-Gillette, would fine any public servant who tries to enforce any COVID-19 vaccine mandate up to $10 million.

Schools would be barred from enforcing student mask-wearing and vaccination against not just COVID-19 but any disease under a bill sponsored by Rep. Ocean Andrew, R-Laramie. The bill is named for a Laramie high school student who was suspended for refusing to wear a mask and then arrested for alleged trespassing when she returned to school and refused to leave.

Wyoming has been one the most vaccine-resistant states, behind only West Virginia, and as a result one of the highest COVID-19 rates in the U.S. over the past couple months. The vast majority, about 84%, of those filling Wyoming hospitals with record numbers of COVID-19 patients have not been fully vaccinated, according to the Wyoming Department of Health.

Even so, many Wyoming workers have been vocally opposed to vaccine mandates, saying they would rather face routine testing for the virus than get the jab.

It remains to be seen, though, which if any of the anti-vaccine-mandate bills would have any real effect if passed. Federal law trumps state law under the U.S. Constitution and Gov. Mark Gordon has signaled willingness to veto, saying he opposed state mandates as well as federal ones.

I believe in liberty for individuals and that those liberties extend to how individuals choose to run their businesses. These principles cannot be decoupled for political expediency, Gordon wrote in a statement to lawmakers read in the House and Senate.

The rejection of special rules for the session means some bills unrelated to COVID-19 could get traction like during a typical legislative session.

One would allow state officials to proceed with expanding the federal Medicaid health-coverage program in the state, an idea getting more debate and support in Wyoming in recent years. Another bill would freeze increases to firefighter pensions.

Not all COVID-19 vaccination bills oppose the federal mandate, meanwhile. People who quit jobs because their employers wouldn't enforce COVID-19 vaccination requirements would qualify for unemployment benefits under a bill sponsored by Rep. Cathy Connolly, D-Laramie.

Wyoming lawmakers planning how to allocate federal coronavirus relief funding held their first special session in 16 years in 2020. The current special session is the 24th in state history.

___

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IN SUMMARY

Rain is descending on California as a bomb cyclone and atmospheric river hit the state, enough to end fire season but not the drought. Drought-stricken, fire-plagued California asked for rain -- and got a bomb cyclone and a Level 5 out of 5 atmospheric river expected to keep pounding the state today.

By Emily Hoeven

CalMatters

In other words: Rain, and lots of it. Enough to force evacuations in San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties due to the threat of flash floods and mudslides near wildfire burn scars -- and to prompt evacuation warnings, debris flow warnings and flash flood advisories throughout Northern and Central California. Enough to knock out power for about 148,000 PG&E customers. Enough to start a landslide that shut down a portion of Highway 70 and to stir powerful winds that flipped over two trucks on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. And enough to cancel hundreds of flights; call off the Ironman California race scheduled in Sacramento; and close numerous roads, ferries, bridge sidewalks and other locations.

The possibly historic storm descended on California just days after Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a statewide drought emergency and begged residents to conserve water -- underscoring the whipsawing weather patterns that scientists say are evidence of climate change. Indeed, many of the communities fleeing flash floods on Sunday had fled from flames not long before.

Although the downpour is not expected to reverse the state's devastating drought, experts say it could put an end to Northern and Central California's fire season. (Southern California, which only saw a bit of rain over the weekend, is still at risk.) But that won't erase the damage that's already been done: Newsom on Friday issued an emergency proclamation to support counties still recovering from recent fires -- the same day state parks officials said they will have to remove 10,000 ancient sequoias near the site of the KNP Complex Fire. The trees, weakened by fires, drought, disease and age, risk collapsing onto the nearby highway, officials said.

Southern California, largely spared from the side effects of the bomb cyclone, faced its own challenges over the weekend. A magnitude 3.6 earthquake shook downtown Los Angeles on Sunday morning, and officials said they no longer have an estimate for when the horrible smell that for weeks has plagued Carson -- and which some have likened to "rotten flesh sitting in the sun" -- will dissipate.

The good news is that popular ski and snowboard resort Mammoth Mountain is set to open on Friday -- two weeks ahead of schedule -- thanks to the storm unleashing buckets of snow on the Sierra Nevada.

Copyright  2021 Bay City News, Inc. All rights reserved. Republication, rebroadcast or redistribution without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited. Bay City News is a 24/7 news service covering the greater Bay Area.

Copyright  2021 by Bay City News, Inc. Republication, Rebroadcast or any other Reuse without the express written consent of Bay City News, Inc. is prohibited.
The Bay Area film community is mourning the loss of a 107-year-old movie theater that permanently closed last week.

The California Theatre in Berkeley, fondly referred to by regulars as the Cal, has been shuttered since the early days of the pandemic, but former employees began to hear murmurings in early October that its reopening was unlikely. Margot Gerber of Landmark Theatres, a Hollywood-based chain that owns the historic venue on Kittredge Street, confirmed the theaters closure on Thursday, explaining that the landlord did not want to renew the lease, as Berkeleyside first reported.

Its a really sad thing, Dale Sophiea, a manager at the theater from 1998 to 2016, told SFGATE last Thursday prior to confirmation of the news.

He said he was aware that a dumpster would be dropped off in front of the theaters iconic blue-and-yellow marquee, which is now adorned with a melancholy message: Visit the Shattuck. (The Shattuck, the Albany Twin and Piedmont theaters, also operated under Landmark, will remain open).

Right now, theyre putting everything in piles and sending things to the other theaters that can still be used, including projectors, cups and concession supplies, he said. Its too great of a place to lose, and it has such a rich history.

Originally named the T&D Theatre, the Greek Revival-style movie palace provided a space for live performance as well as films. Designed by architect Albert W. Cornelius, the single-screen-turned-triplex theater reportedly opened in Dec. 1914 for a screening of the Italian silent film Cabiria, complete with a live orchestra and a Wurlitzer organ transported from the Embassy Theatre in San Francisco. In 1994, Landmark purchased the venue, operating it as the California Theatre.

Sophieas own favorite memories at the theater included screenings of the 2004 Michael Moore documentary, Fahrenheit 9/11.

The whole city of Berkeley turned out, he said. The Cal was the number-one-grossing theater in the country for it on opening weekend, and we had sold-out shows every single day, with lines around the block.

Courtesy of Dale Sophiea

Sophiea said the 600-seat theater was the largest indoor auditorium in downtown Berkeley, and that its loss would have a residual impact on smaller theaters like the Shattuck and the Albany, not to mention the downtown corridor.

Theres going to be nothing left to draw people down there anymore, he said.

The fate of the theater remains unclear  Gerber said Landmark was unaware of the property owner's plans  but Sophiea is holding out some hope that it will survive to screen movies another day. He noted that a report from the city of Berkeley had declared the theater as historically significant due to its distinctive architecture and found it eligible for landmark status through the National Register of Historic Places.

Its a beautiful building, and deserves to be preserved as a movie theater, said Sophiea. I dont see how they could turn it into anything else.
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.
Spectrum Health is expanding access to monoclonal antibody (mAb) therapy in West Michigan. A mobile infusion clinic offering the COVID-19 treatment will be onsite at Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital Nov. 1 to 19.

The mobile clinic will be stationed in the parking lot east of the Emergency Department during the two-week period.

Treatments are by appointment only because supplies and resources are limited.

If administered within 10 days of onset of COVID-19 symptoms, the one-time therapy may decrease disease progression and reduce the risk of requiring hospitalization. The treatment is administered through intravenous infusion, delivering medication directly into a patients bloodstream.

Patients can call the Spectrum Health COVID-19 Infusion Clinic at (616) 391-0351 to schedule. The team will help navigate eligibility and supply, and when possible, schedule treatment at the mobile unit. The unit has three treatment areas and can accommodate up to 12 people per day.

Spectrum Health Ludington Hospital is pleased to provide our monoclonal antibody program to communities in West Michigan, including in the Ludington area and Oceana County, and particularly to our most vulnerable populations, Ludington Hospital President Drew Dostal said. With our mobile clinic, Spectrum Health is bringing care directly to the patients who need it most. We are hopeful that the supply of antibodies will allow us to treat as many people as possible.

Spectrum Health also is increasing efforts to inform underserved and disadvantaged communities about this treatment option through grassroots community outreach. This builds on Spectrum Healths established efforts throughout the pandemic to reach the underserved with information about COVID-19 prevention, treatment and vaccine availability. Physicians also will be equipped with information to share with patients when they receive positive test results.

While Spectrum Health as a whole now has the capacity to treat up to 400 patients weekly, the number of patients treated is dependent on monoclonal antibody supply. Monoclonal antibodies are available under an emergency use authorization granted by the FDA during the COVID-19 pandemic. Spectrum Health relies on federal and state supply distribution and is experiencing constraints from a national shortage. The ability to offer treatment can change from week to week.

The mobile clinic has been outfitted to provide monoclonal antibody infusion. It will travel to COVID-19 hot spots throughout West Michigan, as well as serve those in the community who may not be able to seek treatment at Blodgett Hospital, where Spectrum Health opened its COVID-19 Infusion Clinic for mAb treatment in December 2020. The mobile unit is expected to change locations on a regular basis to better reach underserved and disadvantaged communities.

The expansion is driven by a partnership with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). On March 17, HHS announced it was investing $150 million to increase access to mAb therapy for high-risk patients in underserved and disadvantaged communities across the country. Spectrum Health was among the first health care partners to join this national effort to equitably expand access to monoclonal antibody therapy and has been a national leader in policy, education and dissemination of this treatment.

Monoclonal antibody therapy is the first COVID-19 treatment granted emergency use authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for outpatient use. The therapy has been shown to help high-risk COVID-19 patients avoid hospitalization and recover at home.

The Blodgett Hospital monoclonal antibody clinic in Grand Rapids and Spectrum Health Lakeland in St. Joseph have treated more than 2,400 patients to date.

Spectrum Health is supported by KPMG and sponsored by HHS as part of the federal effort to help end COVID-19 and improve health equity in underserved and disadvantaged communities across the country. The initiative now includes over 25 prototype models, supported by KPMG and sponsored by HHS, to increase access to mAb therapy at over 80 infusion locations in 16 states.

How to access mAb treatment at Spectrum Health

All patients who test positive for COVID-19 and are interested in learning more about mAb treatment at Spectrum Health can call (616) 391-0351 for expedited referral to the most appropriate Spectrum Health treatment location.

About Crush COVID

A treatment for COVID-19 is here and is available in every state at hundreds of locations across the country. With the help of KPMG; HHS; state and local health departments; local hospitals; and health clinics, eligible patients will have increased access to mAb treatment in a growing number of underserved and disadvantaged communities through this initiative.

Authorized by the FDA, monoclonal antibody therapy (mAb) is available to patients who have tested positive for COVID-19 and are considered at high risk for progressing to severe COVID-19 and/or hospitalization. To learn more about eligibility and find a treatment location near you, visit https://crushcovid.com.
News

Kidnapped in Haiti: Hart community prays for safe return of Michigan mom, children

Kelly Jordan Community members gather together in prayer at Hart Commons park in Hart, Michigan, on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, for a prayer vigil. The vigil is for the family from the Dunkard Brethren Church congregation, who were among the missionary group kidnapped by a gang in Haiti and are being held for ransom. (Kelly Jordan/Detroit Free Press/TNS) Kelly Jordan Kelly Jordan | detroit free press photos via tns Carleton Horst, 44, of Hart, center, a member of the Dunkard Brethren Church in Hart prays with his family and others who gathered Sunday at Hart Commons park for a prayer vigil. Horst knows the family, who are members of the Hart congregation and were among the missionary group kidnapped by a gang in Haiti and are being held for ransom. Kelly Jordan Community members gather together in prayer Sunday for a prayer vigil at Hart Commons park in Hart. Kelly Jordan Kelly Jordan | Detroit free press via tns Charlotte Ryder, center, of Hart, joins with community members as they gather together in prayer Sunday at Hart Commons park in Hart for a prayer vigil.

HART  The town of Hart is small, its population just barely reaches over 2,000. Its downtown area stretches about two blocks, and most shops are closed for the weekend by 3 p.m. on Saturday. Little red hearts are etched onto every street sign.

So when word came that an Oceana County family was kidnapped while on a mission in Haiti, it spread like wildfire through the town.

Its a very close-knit community, said Carleton Horst, a longtime friend of the family. Hart is a very rural town, a very small town, everybody knows everybody, so to speak. And so were a close-knit community as a whole, and so when one person suffers, its kind of suffering for everybody else involved.

The family, whose names are not being released for safety reasons, are avid churchgoers and have been on many long-term missions in their lives. They live in Shelby and attend the Hart Dunkard Brethren Church.

Six of the 11 people in the family went to Haiti, said Ron Marks, minister at their church. Five of them are among the kidnapped  the mother and four children, including one who is around preschool-aged. The father stayed behind to prepare a sermon while his family went with other missionaries to an orphanage.

Churchgoers and community members spoke to the Detroit Free Press about the family and their role in the community.

The kidnapping

The family is part of a group of 17 missionaries who were kidnapped on their way to an orphanage in Port-au-Prince by the 400 Mawozo gang on Oct. 16. The group, part of Ohio-based Christian Aid Ministries, is comprised of 16 Americans and one Canadian, and includes five children. Kidnappers demanded $17 million for the hostages release  $1 million per person.

The groups members come from Amish, Mennonite, and other conservative Anabaptist communities across six U.S. states and Ontario.

A video that circulated Thursday showed Wilson Joseph, leader of 400 Mawozo, threatening to kill the hostages if his demands are not met.

I prefer that thunder burns me, if I dont get what I need. You see those Americans, I will prefer to kill them and I will unload a big weapon to each of their heads, Joseph said in the video. I mean what I said, thats it.

Police say the missionaries were abducted in the community of Ganther, which lies in 400 Mawozos territory. Gang presence surged in Haiti after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise in July and a severe earthquake devastated the region.

The FBI and the State Department are working to secure the release of the hostages.

Its a sad day for West Michigan, U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Mich., said in a statement last week. It appears that individuals from West Michigan have been kidnapped while serving on a mission trip in Haiti. My office is working in cooperation and consultation with the State Department and the Biden Administration to secure the safe return of the missionaries and their family members.

Huizengas office declined to provide an update.

The family

At the core, community members characterized the family by their love of God. They have been on many missions to Kenya, Marks said, and even birthed a child there.

Their nature is to help others, said Jeremiah Johnson, another minister at Hart Dunkard Brethren Church. He said they were aware of the dangers and political instability in the region, but felt called to help anyway.

They really have a love for people, I think thats probably what was driving them to go, Johnson said. People sometimes ask why would you take a family into a place like that? You can keep yourself safe sometimes, but when you know theres hurting people out there, I mean, they were at an orphanage. When you know theres hungry kids because of all the disruption, and you have the power to try to alleviate that suffering. Do I sit here in comfort? Or do I go? They knew there were risks, but I think its just the love for people. It just motivates them to want to care and sometimes it costs more than we think it does.

The family is kind-hearted and has an incredible work ethic, in addition to their unwavering faith in God, said family friend Sharita Prowant. She said they empower her in her faith and are always there to pick her up when shes down.

Theyll say I need a hug when Im working, and theyll come up and hug me and say, its gonna be alright, she said.

Marks said he recently spoke to the father and that hes doing surprisingly well, all things considered, and has a good understanding of whats going on. He said their faith is definitely whats getting the mother and children through their captivity.

Faith

Marks has known the father since he was born and has seen the family continue to grow. Marks entire family is close with them, and he said the situation has been incredibly challenging.

The situation feels out of his control, so hes turning to his faith.

When youre used to being there for someone and when theyre out of your reach and we have the perception that they need help, theres a human feeling of maybe a certain amount of helplessness, but thats overcome by trusting God that he helps when we cant, Marks said.

The Hart Dunkard Brethren Church, with a congregation of around 55, is an Anabaptist denomination. Marks described the main tenant of their beliefs with the idea that baptism should be done by a confession of ones own faith, not as babies and decided by ones parents.

Horst and his family attended the Sunday service, praying with the community for their friends safe release and return. He said he believes that even if things dont go the way he hopes, its all a part of Gods plan.

We havent faced those kinds of things, for the most part. There are people in the world over who are persecuted for their faith or theyre martyred for their faith, theyre put into captivity for their faith, Horst said. We just dont see that here in the U.S. and we havent typically seen that in any of the mission work that weve done so far ... We believe that, for the believer, theres heaven that awaits us and we can meet again someday, so we just trust God. God is the one that we cling to. When things go well, we trust God. When things go bad, we trust God.

Community

Hart city manager Rob Splane said that being in such a rural and small community, the town and its people tend to avoid a lot of the divisiveness that plagues larger, more densely populated areas.

This area tends to be a lot of community members that support each other and it seems like when something happens to one of us, it happens to all of us and I believe the pain thats being felt by the victims is shared with the whole community, Splane said.

So, faith leaders from churches across the city came together to organize a prayer vigil at Hart Commons on Sunday evening. And true to its small-town nature, about 150 people came to pray and to show support.

Horst has known the family since he moved to the area in 1999 and his kids are friends with their kids. Hes quite close to them and said that people coming together, those who know the family well and those who dont, means a lot to him.

It really is encouraging as believers to know that were not in this alone and that we can, as a group, care for one another when we have times like this, Horst said.

Prowant said that, although they are not members of Dunkard Brethren, the faith and strength theyre getting from the Hart community is whats pushing them through the sadness and fear about what is going to happen.

Its helping us have the strength to get through this, she said. And believe it or not, the Dunkard community, I mean, its their home, their family, their close friends, you know, but they have helped sustain us as a community through this because of their strong faith.
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It will witness participation of Tribal Dance Groups from various states and union territories of India along with international participation from several countries portraying and celebrating their respective tribal folk culture.

New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS) Under the Tourism Development plan of Government of Chhattisgarh, a three-day National Tribal Dance Festival will be held in Raipur from October 28-30 at the Science College Ground.

The festival will feature multiple artists belonging to diverse tribal communities from across many Indian states and those from countries including Kingdom of Eswatini, Uzbekistan, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Syria, Mali and Palestine who will come together on one platform for the extravaganza.

Areas like Bastar, Dantewada, Koriya, Korba, Bilaspur, Gariabandh, Mainpur, Dhura, Dhamtari, Surguja, Jashpur in Chhattisgarh have significant tribal populations with their own distinctive history, culture and traditions and in tune with natural way of life.

Speaking about the festival, Chief Minister, Bhupesh Baghel said, "Chhattisgarh is home to many indigenous tribes of India contributing to the vibrant culture of the state of which we are very proud. The National Tribal Dance Festival will promote and celebrate the uniqueness of tribal culture and showcase the richness and diversity of tribal life of Chhattisgarh and other states to the world."

In 2019, the first edition of the National Tribal Dance Festival saw participation of tribal communities from across 25 states of India and six guest countries, and witnessed an attendance of over 1 lakh people.

The dance performances will be held in two categories of Wedding Ceremonies and Other Prominent Rituals. The participants will don traditional attires and their artistic presentations on stage will be accompanied by tribal instruments.

The highlights of the festival include 'The Tribal Dance Area', Tribal Conclave - Food (chefs Manish Mehrotra, Chef Prateek Sadhu, Anoothi Vishal), Fashion & Textile (Namrata Zakaria, David Abraham and Pareina Thapar) Art (Bhavna Kakar, Anubhav Nath, Priyanshi Saxena, Kiran Mohan) Beauty & Wellness (Vasudha Rai, Suparna Trikha and Sangeeta Jain).

There will also be a 'Live Showcase Area', a tribal inspired exhibit, Shilpagram and Food Area.

--IANS

sukant/pgh
Just last week, a Sri Lankan delegation led by Sports Minister Namal Rajapaksa, Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga and State Minister DV Chanaka accompanied by 125 Buddhist monks visited India for the inauguration of the Kushinagar international airport by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The aim-to promote religious tourism and encourage people-to-people connect between the two nations.

This follows intense diplomatic and defence activity between the two nations over the past one month encompassing all levels of bilateral relations-tourism, defence, business, economic development and diplomacy.

Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa also assured Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla about his nation's commitment towards India. To assure New Delhi over China's increasing footprint in the island nation. Colombo has opened up its ports for investment to Indian companies and given the development of the West Container Terminal to the Adani Group at the Colombo Port.

Indian Army chief General MM Naravane also undertook a visit to Sri Lanka earlier this month to reinforce New Delhi's commitment to Colombo as "Priority One" partner in defence relations. The Indian High Commission in Colombo had accorded the southern neighbour its "Priority One" partner in the defence sphere earlier this year.

Besides the two navies interacting with each other, the Indian and Sri Lankan armies too held a 12-day military exercise recently. The Indian Army is also building the capacities of Sri Lankan army personnel besides holding discussions on the security situation in the region.

In the latest sign of burgeoning defence relations, the Indian Navy, aided by the Indian Coast Guard, is training Sri Lankan Navy personnel. Indian Navy ships--Sujata, Magar, Shardul, Sudarshini and Tarangini, accompanied by the coast guard Ship Vikram arrived in Sri Lanka for the Integrated Officers Training Course from October 24 - 28.

According to a statement by the Ministry of Defence: "the deployment will broaden the horizons of young officers and officer-trainees by exposing them to the socio-political and maritime facets of different countries in the Indian Ocean Region. The deployment will also expose the trainees onboard towards the conduct of IN warships in various evolutions at sea, port familiarisation and above all, foster the bridges of friendship with foreign nations".

The two navies will also hold a two-day naval drill. According to the Sri Lankan navy, Shardul and Magar arrived at the Colombo harbour, while Sujata, Sudarshini, Tarangini and Vikram sailed to the port of Trincomalee. Various training activities are planned between the two navies with a view to enhancing the interoperability of the two forces.

A statement by the Ministry of Defence says: "The overseas deployment will help in developing the skills of seamanship and ship-handling besides nurturing a spirit of adventure among the officers. It also inculcates a deep understanding of, and respect for, the elements within the maritime environment. The entire crew of all the visiting ships are doubly vaccinated and have also been tested for COVID-19".

The Indian Navy has been imparting training to international trainees for more than four decades now. Currently, a large number of officers and sailors from Sri Lanka are undergoing courses ranging from the beginners to advanced, at the Southern Naval Command (SNC).

The ships are the part of the SNC-the Training Command of the Indian Navy, headed by Vice Admiral AK Chawla, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, SNC while the 1st Training Squadron based at Kochi is currently helmed by Captain Aftab Ahmed Khan, Senior Officer First Training Squadron, who also dons the dual hat of Commanding Officer, INS Tir.

India and Sri Lanka had excellent defence and military cooperation during the eighties. New Delhi had sent the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) to Sri Lanka to support the country in its battle against extremism.

(The content is being carried under an arrangement with indianarrative.com)

--indianarrative
Samsung Electronics, the world's number two foundry firm behind Taiwan's TSMC, announced in May that it will build a $17 billion fab in the US.

Seoul, Oct 26 (IANS) Samsung Electronics will quickly decide on a foundry investment in the US, a senior executive said Tuesday, as the South Korean tech giant seeks to become the world's number one player in the logic chip and foundry sectors.

Samsung's de facto leader Lee Jae-yong is widely speculated to visit the US, possibly next month, to finalise the site, with the city of Taylor, Texas, emerging as the strongest candidate. Other candidates include Arizona, New York, and Austin, Texas.

Kim Ki-nam, Vice Chairman and CEO of Samsung's device solutions division, said it takes time for the company to review all the factors such as "infrastructure, site, personnel and state incentives," and make a final decision.

"We are trying to make a decision as soon as possible," Kim told reporters on the sidelines of the Korea Electronics Show 2021, which is under way at an exhibition center in southern Seoul.

He made the comments when asked whether Samsung will make an investment within this year. He did not elaborate, reports Yonhap news agency.

Separately, Kim said the company has been "calmly" preparing answers to a recent request by the US Department of Commerce about its semiconductor business.

The US has asked global chipmakers, including Samsung, to share information on inventories and demanded other details by November 8 to "help improve trust and transparency within the supply chain." The request spawned concerns about the leak of chipmakers' major trade secrets.

--IANS

wh/vd
Speaking to Fox News, the Senator from South Carolina said: "Afghanistan is like a freefall. Al Qaeda is flourishing there, IS (Islamic State) is getting stronger," Khaama Press reported.

New Delhi, Oct 26 (IANS) Republican Senator Lindsey Graham has said that the Taliban's denial to cooperate with the US to contain terror groups like the Al Qaeda is a war announcement against America, the media reported on Tuesday.

He also accused the Taliban of policing Al Qaeda.

Graham called Afghanistan the biggest national security threat in the near term and its humanitarian situation as te largest disaster on the planet which is getting worse.

Terming Joe Biden as "the most incompetent President", the Senator said that his plans on Afghanistan did not work and if there is someone to blame for the looming crisis in the war-torn nation, then "Biden should look in the mirror".

"President Joe Biden turned down military advice. They don't know if there is 350 or 700 American left behind but we do know that there are thousands of Afghans who fought along our side that have been left behind," Graham added.

--IANS

ksk/
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Crown Resorts retention of its prized Victorian casino licence despite years of egregious legal and moral breaches has emboldened investors in the beaten-down sector, and could reignite takeover interest in the gambling giant.

Victorias royal commission into Crown found in its final report, released on Tuesday, that the group was unsuitable to run a casino but should be given two years to reform itself under the supervision of a state-appointed special manager.

Crown has retained its Victorian casino licence. Credit:Jason South

Crowns ASX-listed shares closed 8.7 per cent higher at $10.50  the highest they have traded since July  while shares in its Sydney-based rival The Star Entertainment Group jumped 4.3 per cent to $3.61.

The Star will face its own public inquiry in NSW in March next year, following reports in this masthead that it failed to prevent organised criminals and money launderers infiltrating its casinos.
DAYS after Citigroup's Australian boss, Stephen Roberts, said he planned to expand his workforce, some staff in the Park Street headquarters in Sydney have been given their marching orders.

A spokeswoman for Citigroup, Judy Hitchen, confirmed yesterday that "a handful" of staff in the equities and fixed income divisions had been retrenched. She would not be more specific on how many. The retrenchments were part of the normal annual review of local operations, she said.

"There are no more to come in the near future," Ms Hitchen said, before adding that the review was "ongoing". "It's really part of the normal year-end process prior to compensation discussions which begin next week."

As word of the job cuts spread, staff feared they were the first of the global sackings foreshadowed in the US this week after Citigroup announced the biggest loss in its 196-year history. The bank was forced to write down a further $US18 billion ($20.5 billion) in subprime losses, seek another capital injection from foreign investors and announce thousands of layoffs.

Mr Roberts told the Herald that there had been no directive from the US for any cuts locally. "It's definitely business as usual," he said. "If I look at what we're doing in terms of head count, we're increasing it - we're investing in our businesses."
An administrative error at EISS Super caused one member to lose $75,000.

The 61-year-old man, who asked not to be named for privacy reasons, had spent his entire working life with the fund.

Superannuations new stapling measure will stamp out duplicate fees and help persuade fund members to become more engaged with their retirement savings. Credit:Quentin Jones

He was defaulted into the funds membership by the Electrical Trades Union while working as a labourer for a government organisation in the 1980s.

We only had one choice back in those days. It was EISS, he says. It was all locked in with the unions.
All but one of the 13 superannuation funds with MySuper investment options that failed the Australian Prudential Regulation Authoritys (APRA) inaugural performance test have seen a fall in their number of members, as workers bailed out and switched to better-performing funds.

Margaret Cole, APRA executive board member, told an industry conference last week that, by contrast, some of the nations largest funds are signing up as many as 1000 new members a day.

Super funds with scale can spread fees and costs over a larger membership base, which can lead to outperformance over their smaller rivals. Credit:Dorothy Woodgate

Each of the 13 MySuper options, which have more than one million members combined and include funds managed by some of the super industrys biggest names, including the Commonwealth Bank and Westpacs BT, were required to send a letter to members by September 28, informing them that their fund is underperforming and had failed the test.

The letter points members to the ATOs YourSuper comparison tool to check their funds performance against other like-for-like funds.
James Packer made a multimillion-dollar fortune on Tuesday without lifting a finger when former Federal Court judge Ray Finkelstein gave Crown Resorts the green light to continue operating its Melbourne casino. Buoyed by the outcome, investors on Tuesday lifted the casino operators shares to $10.42 from a close of $9.66 on Monday, boosting the value of Packers 37 per cent stake by $180 million in a single day to just under $2.5 billion.

Welcome news, given Packer has been without his main source of income - dividends from Crown - for more than 18 months.

James Packer Credit:John Shakespeare

Leading his royal commission into the casino giant, Finkelstein found Crown unfit to hold a licence - but gave the casinos giant two years to reform under the supervision of a government-appointed special manager.

That will be a big mop-up job, as an investigation by the Herald, The Age and 60 Minutes uncovered how the casino was targeted by organised crime and money laundering.
Western Australia will likely see reintroduced COVID restrictions after the school holidays, according to Premier Mark McGowan who has given his strongest indication yet of when his government will relax borders and allow the virus in.

If we have any restrictions brought in, which we expect we will, theyre after the school holidays, Mr McGowan told reporters on Tuesday.

Western Australia is the last state to reveal its roadmap out of the pandemic.

Were continuing with our vaccination program to get as many people vaccinated as we can to make sure that we get through the Christmas period and the Christmas holidays before such time as we open to New South Wales and Victoria and potentially get cases ... hopefully we can come through this whole experience pretty unscathed.

Mr McGowans comments are significant because up to this point he has refused to set a date or definite vaccination level other than references to somewhere between 80 and 90 per cent before WA started accepting the spread of COVID in the community.
A major study of how temperatures influence childrens academic performance in NSW found it is cold weather, rather than heat, that leads to a significant drop in students NAPLAN results.

The impact of cold temperatures on test scores was more prevalent among high school students and boys, and only apparent in schools with low air conditioning coverage.

Springwood High students Ian Tjoelker and Ayesha Kelly speak out about what its like trying to learn at a school without proper heating and cooling. Credit:Wolter Peeters

Authors of the study, which has been published in an international journal, the Economics of Education Review, say the results are consistent with past findings that people who live in warm places are less prepared for cold weather.

It comes as more than 400 NSW schools had their applications for reverse-cycle air conditioning under the state governments $500 million air conditioning program rejected, and amid debate over the best way to ventilate classrooms to decrease the risk of COVID-19.
The NSW government will consider extending assistance to apartment owners who have already been forced to pay for the removal of flammable cladding from their high-rise buildings.

It has, however, ruled out expanding the criteria used to determine buildings eligible for its interest-free loan program, despite the City of Sydney warning that only a quarter of the 290 residential buildings it still has under investigation for flammable cladding will be able to access it.

Work began on Tuesday to remove high-risk cladding from a Darlington apartment building, which is the first of more than 150 in NSW already registered for the government program known as Project Remediate.

NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, left, talks about the removal of cladding from a Darlington apartment building. Credit:Kate Geraghty

Better Regulation Minister Kevin Anderson said he was open to considering assistance for owners of buildings who had already had cladding removed, so long as the work complied with building codes.
First published in The Sydney Morning Herald on October 28, 1991

I see it, and Im still having trouble believing it, said Fairfax journalist Peter Bowers, as he and more than 1,200 people yesterday saw former prime ministers Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser sitting side-by-side on a Sydney stage.

Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser share a laugh at the Maintain The Rage - Over Fairfax rally on October 28, 1991. Credit:Simon Alekna

Later, the two stood, clasped hands and raised their arms defiantly and were greeted by applause, cheers and whistles, from a public rally called to protest at concentration of media ownership.

It hasnt been easy for them to decide to stand together on the same platform and speak with one voice, Mr Bowers told the rally, referring to the strained relations between the two since the then Governor-General, Sir John Kerr, dismissed Mr Whitlam as Prime Minister on Mr Frasers advice in 1975.
The Kings School in Parramatta has broken ranks with public, Catholic and the vast majority of independent schools in Sydney by refusing to mandate masks in classrooms for secondary students.

Back-to-school guidelines developed by NSW Education and NSW Health, and followed by public and Catholic schools, say secondary students must wear masks. But they are inconsistent with public health orders, which permit students to remove their face covering.

The vast majority of independent schools are following the advice and mandating masks for high school students  they are strongly recommended in primary  but Kings told parents its secondary students were not required to wear them, although they could choose to do so.

The Kings School will not require students to wear masks. Credit:Peter Braig

In a letter on Friday, headmaster Tony George said the school had a legal obligation to comply with public health orders, but as the school was independent, it could work within those orders to develop its guidelines that suited its academic, character, co-curricular and community programs.
Ben Tondeleir needed brain surgery, but his form of epilepsy meant he could not receive a general anaesthetic without triggering painful seizures.

So surgeons had to come up with a plan: they kept him awake.

The 24-year old was awake through the entire procedure. Credit:Mater Hospital

In a first for Queensland, the 24-year-old was conscious during the entire procedure, which involved cutting into his head to remove a small part of his brain.

Mr Tondeleir was diagnosed with epilepsy at age six, and spent much of his childhood afraid he would wake up in hospital.
Two-year police positions at the quarantine facility near Toowoomba have been advertised, as the Queensland government announced international students would be allowed back into the state through the regional site.

The state government on Tuesday announced international students would be able to return to Queensland from January.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk (centre) inspects the site for the quarantine facility. Credit:Matt Dennien

Under the plan, 250 international students would return each fortnight before that number was increased.

They would arrive at Brisbane Airport before being taken by bus to the Wellcamp quarantine hub being built by Toowoombas Wagner family, unless the federal government approved international charter flights at the Wellcamp Airport, also owned by the wealthy family.
The rainbow lorikeets knew it was opening time at Melbourne Zoo. Arriving in their dozens, they swooped between trees and their feeding plates, squawking and screeching at nearly unbearable volumes.

Between them stood three-year-old Nixon in his bucket hat, perfectly entranced by their frenzied start to the day.

Three-year-old Nixon awoke at the crack of dawn for his return to the zoo. Credit:Eddie Jim

Nixons grandmother, Karen Child, booked tickets for the zoos first day after the end of the states lockdown. It was like securing Rolling Stones tickets when she logged on to the Zoos Victoria website last week and found herself number 5549 in the queue.

I waited and was successful, were here on the very first day, and couldnt have wished for more, Ms Child said.
For our free coronavirus pandemic coverage, learn more here.

Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Nick Coatsworth is at heart an optimist. It comes with a sunny disposition and a healthy dose of good looks. The combination made him a natural to be the face of Australias COVID-19 response and vaccine rollout campaign. One that even by his estimations has exceeded all expectations, with the vaccination rate likely to exceed 90-plus per cent across the country. And all this happened, he says, in spite of the bitter politics of the rollout. The lines were all too familiar: not enough supply, health authorities chose the wrong vaccines or they invested too heavily in AstraZeneca. Dr Nick Coatsworth at his home in Canberra. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen But when they were called upon to do it, theyve done it. The community just saw right through it all, he says. We will be the world leaders, or close to it, for vax rates. That can only be an enormous source of pride. The 43-year-old rose to national prominence last year as one of Australias deputy chief medical officers during the early stages of the coronavirus pandemic. An infectious disease and respiratory physician, he returned to his day job earlier this year and is now executive director of the medical services group at Canberra Health Services. Coatsworths star continues to rise as an expert on television, radio and in newspapers. But while his straight-talking and unvarnished opinions have earned him high praise, they have also made him quite a few professional enemies.

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Among the latter, some claim Coatsworth has been focusing on himself rather than the argument or operating in a fantasy world. Others say hes full of himself and a self-promoter. In May, he gave an explosive speech to the Royal Australian College of Surgeons, an edited version of which was published by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, describing commentary from a group of high-profile talking heads as narcissism thinly cloaked as activism. Without naming names, Coatsworths speech also labelled the group a hardcore rump of activist doctors campaigning for the false idol of COVID-zero. Loading He followed that up with a July opinion piece that again criticised risk-averse academics and medical commentators, especially those who he argued had undermined confidence in the AstraZeneca vaccine. In that piece, published amid the Delta outbreak in Sydney, Coatsworth also praised the NSW government for navigating a middle road on pandemic policy. The philosophy of the risk-averse experts is self-fulfilling, he wrote. Complain long enough that a government hasnt gone hard and fast enough and eventually you will get it right, no matter how wrong you have been in the past.

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Coatsworth knew there would be some kind of cost for his remarks, but he wasnt expecting what happened next. In early August, 24 clinical academics signed a joint complaint to the Australian National University, where Coatsworth is an associate professor at its medical school, as well as the Royal Australasian College of Physicians over his commentary. I didnt quite realise that theyd get together and write a letter signed by 24 of them complaining to ANU and to my own college of physicians. That was probably a pretty extreme response, he says. Coatsworth with his wife, Dr Rebecca Pearson, and children at home. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen The identities of the academics remain confidential, but it isnt hard to find experts Coatsworth has taken issue with over the past 12 months  on Twitter or in his regular media appearances  many of whom he says were critical of government policy from the beginning of the pandemic and never shifted. Among those are Raina MacIntyre, the head of the biosecurity research program at the Kirby Institute at UNSW Medicine, ABC presenter Dr Norman Swan, health policy consultant Bill Bowtell, Professor Mary-Louise McLaws (an adviser to the World Health Organisation, whom Coatsworth stresses he respects greatly) and Nancy Baxter, the head of Melbourne Universitys School of Population and Global Health. Coatsworth is unhappy with the way the university handled the matter, saying he felt like he had no support whatsoever.

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Adding to his unease about the situation was the later membership of Russell Gruen, the universitys dean of the College of Health and Medicine, and the universitys vice-chancellor Brian Schmidt, of OzSAGE, a group of clinicians and academics that aims to offer well-researched and robustly debated independent expert advice. ANU said in a statement that all concerned in this matter continue to exercise their right to free speech. The university said it could not publicly discuss individual staffing matters, including complaints. What we can say is that the university did receive a complaint and has raised the issues in that complaint with Dr Coatsworth, the statement said. We have let the complainants know that we have raised the substance of their complaint with Dr Coatsworth. The matter is now considered closed. Coatsworth says he doesnt hold a grudge but wont hold back from challenging the experts, academics and commentators who have clashed with him during the past 18 months. I reckon Ive probably sailed as close to the wind as any medical public servant has in pushing back, he says. But I really hope that that gave permission to other people who were really afraid. Coatsworth argues many of the critics who have slammed the approach taken by the nations key decision-making committee, the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee, could have been part of the process.

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Its not as though they werent invited into the tent, he says. They were invited into senior advisory committees, they were briefed on a weekly basis on the vaccine rollout in late December, early January. These guys were all in the tent. And yet, when some of them got in front of the camera, they were just over-egging risk, criticising NSW and criticising vaccines. That was very problematic. It allowed people the psychological way out of getting a vaccine. Loading One of the more public clashes with his peers came on the ABCs Q+A program, when Michelle Ananda-Rajah, associate director at the Monash Institute of Medical Engineering, accused him of being wrong for suggesting there was debate about aerosol transmission of COVID-19. Many of Coatsworths critics accuse him of leading the view among federal health authorities that airborne spread of the virus was not overly important. In one of his opinion pieces, he called that debate a phoney war and said policy had been adjusted to reflect the realities of airborne spread. When she said I was wrong, it didnt acknowledge any of the work we had done in progressing thinking within government about the aerosol issue, he says. He says his team moved Victorian policy in July last year in consultation with the states Chief Medical Officer, Dr Andrew Wilson, and two days later we moved federal policy.

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Federal regulators are nearing the end of a long-running inquiry into whether a major Australian union, whose membership includes senior Labor figures Bill Shorten and Jim Chalmers, inflated its size over many years by failing to remove unfinancial members.

The Registered Organisations Commission in February launched a formal investigation into the Australian Workers Union, which represents about 71,000 workers across industries including, energy, civil construction and agriculture.

AWU national secretary Daniel Walton said he was looking forward to the investigation concluding. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

Membership numbers are critical to all unions as a measure of power but especially those affiliated with the Labor Party because they translate into votes in forums that can influence party positions and policy.

In a statement, the commission said the investigation stemmed from anomalies in the unions reports between 2009 and 2017 and would examine whether it properly purged members who had fallen behind on their dues or stopped paying altogether. It is also checking whether the union complied with laws requiring it to keep proper records for at least seven years.
Queensland Nationals federal candidate Colin Boyce is one of several politicians the Prime Minister will need to convince about the merits of the federal governments plan to achieve net zero greenhouse emissions by 2050.

Mr Boyce, currently an LNP politician in the Queensland Parliament, has vowed to campaign against the net zero policy, despite the party agreeing to support it.

Callide MP Colin Boyce will openly campaign against the Coalitions net zero target. Credit:Lydia Lynch

Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Tuesday launched his governments net zero plan, arguing Australia was on track to achieve an emissions cut of up to 35 per cent by 2030, but that the policy would not put industries, regions or jobs at risk.

Deputy Prime Minister and Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce was not present at Mr Morrisons press conference, but Nationals MPs backed the goal at a tense meeting on Sunday, despite a core group objecting.
Former premier Gladys Berejiklian first told her most senior staffer about her secret relationship with disgraced ex-MP Daryl Maguire when she was summonsed to the corruption watchdog last year.

Neil Harley, Ms Berejiklians former chief of staff, on Tuesday told a corruption inquiry he recalled a difficult discussion in which the typically private premier revealed the relationship.

We were talking broad terms about the nature of the relationship and the fact that it went beyond what you might normally regard as a relationship between a premier and other members of Parliament, Mr Harley said.

Neil Harley Former Chief of Staff for Gladys Berejiklian leaves ICAC after giving evidence. Credit:Janie Barrett

You can imagine it was a very difficult conversation for both of us [and] the former premier, who is inherently a very private person.
People found guilty of intentionally and recklessly breaching public health orders would face two years in jail or a $90,000 fine, under new pandemic laws proposed by the Andrews government.

On Tuesday morning the government tabled its Public Health and Wellbeing Amendment (Pandemic Management) Bill 2021, which would curtail the chief health officers powers, giving the premier the authority to declare a pandemic and the health minister the role of making public health orders.

Premier Daniel Andrews said the legislation had transparency at its heart. Credit:Joe Armao

Health Minister Martin Foley said transparent decision-making was at the heart of the new legislation, while the Opposition decried it as an incredible attack on democracy.

An independent committee would scrutinise key decisions, and advice would be made public after health orders have been declared. If a person failed to comply with a health order and knew  or ought to have known  it would lead to a serious risk to the health of others, they would face a jail sentence of two years or a $90,000 fine, while businesses could be fined $455,000.
London: Queen Elizabeth II has cancelled her planned engagement at the UN climate conference, accepting doctors advice to rest, Buckingham Palace said.

The 95-year-old monarch has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the reception on November 1  a move that will dash the hopes of Britains Conservative government, which is hosting the event. The climate conference runs from October 31 to November 12.

Queen Elizabeth II will deliver an address to delegates via a recorded video message, the palace said. Credit:AP

Her Majesty is disappointed not to attend the reception but will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded video message, the palace said on Wednesday AEDT.

A palace source said the decision had been taken as a sensible precaution and to let everyone know in advance. The queen remained in good spirits and wanted COP26 to be a success, the source added.
London: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is a psychopath who once plotted to kill the Gulf states late king with a poisoned ring, a former top spy has claimed in a television interview.

Saad al-Jabri, who is living in exile in Canada, also said he feared for his own life as he believesd that Mohammed, Saudi Arabias de facto ruler, wished to assassinate him. In an interview with CBSs 60 Minutes program, Jabri claimed that during a 2014 meeting with Prince Mohammed bin Nayef, another Saudi royal, the Crown Prince threatened to murder then King Abdullah.

Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Credit:AP

He told him, I want to assassinate King Abdullah. I get a poison ring from Russia. Its enough for me just to shake hands with him and he will be done, Jabri claimed.

Before fleeing the country, Jabri had served as an aide to Mohammed bin Nayef, who was ousted as heir to the throne in 2017 by the Crown Prince.
In recent years, women from Mexico to Argentina have poured into the streets in mass protests to push for the legalisation of abortion and call for an end to gender violence, and have become vocal participants in the #MeToo movement. A feminist anthem, A Rapist in Your Path, written by a Chilean feminist collective, placed the responsibility for violence squarely on the shoulders of men, touching a nerve with women who performed it together in public spaces across the region and then the world. Nicolas Montero, who leads the citys Culture Office, in Bogota, Colombia. Credit:Federico Rios/The New York Times The fault was not mine, or where I was, or how I dressed, tens of thousands of women chanted in plazas and public streets beginning in 2019. The rapist is you. It is in that context that a growing number of organisations, activists and policymakers in Latin America are pressing for programs that make men a central part of the conversation, even amid scepticism that they will participate.

Loading In Colombia, where a woman is sexually assaulted every 34 minutes, according to government data, male and female university students have begun hosting workshops on micromachismos or machista microaggressions, while non-profits in Mexico, Costa Rica and Brazil offer therapy or courses focused on healthy masculinity. Some governments, beyond supporting education for abusers, now endorse fatherhood classes. And across the region, dozens of mens collectives with names like Men at Work now gather regularly to discuss their role in the patriarchy and diverse ways to be a man. Mauro Vargas Urias, the founder and director of Gendes, a Mexican organisation that examines masculinity, said machismo was an oppressive and hegemonic system but that it could be changed. Because its a system that we learnt, we can unlearn it to relearn, he said.

The Calm line was started by the government of Claudia Lopez, who last year became the first woman and the first openly gay mayor of Bogota, a relatively liberal capital in a largely conservative Catholic nation. Lopez has made confronting machismo part of her governments plan, and the hotline, which costs the city of 8 million people about $US300,000 ($399,000) a year, is only one piece of that. Psychologists working at the Calm line service in Bogota. Credit:Federico Rios/The New York Times This month, Bogota will begin a school for men, known as Men in Care, aimed at teaching husbands and fathers to tend to their home, their children and their partners. The question for the creators of those programs has been whether men will show up. Many Colombian men say they recognise the existence of machismo, but far fewer see it in themselves. Pedro Torres, 58, a taxi driver, described the line as a good idea but said he doubted men would call out of embarrassment. Besides, he added, he was not sure the service was necessary.

Machismo is on its way out today, he said, due to womens liberation. Men are calling in to the Calm line, though, at a rate of a dozen a day. The lines dozen or so psychologists sit side by side at computers in a small office overlooking the city, headsets framing their faces. Some are just out of school; all of them are fluent in a kind of therapy that incorporates and challenges long-held assumptions about gender and power. I believed, and others believed, that men who commit violence would not call us to ask for help, said Daniel Galeano, 26, one of the psychologists. But something is happening, and maybe its that those old masculine models dont work any more. A woman holds a banner that reads in Spanish They took so much that they even took away our fear, during an International Womens Day protest in Bogota in March. Credit:AP

Essential to the psychologists work is the idea that machismo hurts not only women but men too, by confining them to a narrow set of emotions and roles  men must be strong, men cannot fail, men cannot cry  that leaves them prone to isolation, violence and social conflict. Punishing abusers through the penal system when they commit crimes does not address the cause of the problem like prevention and education do, the lines proponents argue. The Calm line is being advertised on television, radio and social media and through an associated TV miniseries, Calm, which features a cast of four male friends who support one another as they struggle with anger and control issues. Listen, Carlos, housework is normal work, like any work, one character in episode two says to a man whose wife has asked him to pitch in more at home. Carlos, standing at the sink in an apron and looking as if he is on the edge of a nervous breakdown, stares at his friend.

But you would do it? Of course I would! the friend replies. Calm line callers are mostly cisgender but sometimes transgender, and they frequently phone in because they are struggling with jealousy. Sometimes they have custody problems or share that they are near the point of suicide. Fear, shame and confusion pervade many of the conversations. I think the line healed me a lot, said Alex Rodriguez, 31, a transgender man who used it this year. Alex Rodriguez, 31, a transgender man who used Bogotas Calm hotline this year. Credit:Federico Rios/The New York Times

He remembered telling his psychologist, Diana, I dont want to be a jealous boyfriend or man. I dont want to be controlling. I dont want to be possessive. What do I do? The services psychologists also invite callers to sign up for free one-on-one workshops to help them work through bigger issues. Loading On a recent morning, Diana Tiria, 26, one of the Calm Line psychologists, started a workshop with a young man struggling with heartbreak. So, insecurity, which is associated with and which appears when you make a commitment, she told him at one point, mirroring what he had just said. Do you think that has to do with the concept of power?
Miramar, FL:--- The cruise industry embarked in Panama City last week with a clear message: the cruise industry is moving full steam ahead with its restart and looking for new opportunities to partner with and invest in destinations and stakeholders for long-term mutual success. That message rang throughout the FCCA Cruise Conference, with echoes of the focus being placed by top executives of FCCA Member Lines, which represent more than 90 percent of the global ocean cruising capacity, on events and meetings like those being coordinated by Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA).



We cannot be more honored by the continued support of our Member Lines and partners throughout the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central and South America, said Michele Paige, president, FCCA. Constant mutual exchanges between those parties have propelled cruisings restart in our partner destinations, and we are proud that we could again bring together cruise executives and stakeholders at our keynote event to have these exchanges in person and further develop business and relationships.



For Panama it was an honor to have hosted this historical event, receiving the most influential leaders of the cruise industry in our brand-new convention center, said Ivan Eskildsen, Minister of Tourism, Government of Panama. Eighteen months into the pandemic, the Conference was taken as an opportunity to collaborate on and transform this important sector, relaunching its new path in the midst of relevant changes in the preferences and expectations of travelers.



Nearly 400 attendees joined 60 high-level cruise executives from FCCA Member Lines for the Conference, which was an alive and fully vaccinated event that took place in the new Panama Convention Center from October 18-21 and featured a series of meetings, workshops, and networking functions. The events revamped format put one-on-one meetings on the main stage, with preset 15-minute sessions with participating executives to present goods and services.



Attendees had other ample opportunities to learn from and build a business with cruise executives who decide where ships call, what is sold and used onboard, and how to invest in destination products and developments. Networking functions brought together the groups in more casual environments, and workshops led by key cruise executivesincluding Chairmen, Presidents, and CEOsconcentrated on topics from navigating the new normal to developing all-encompassing and far-reaching plans, with attendees needs taking the spotlight through the workshops encouraging audience input.



Additionally, the event featured private meetings including the Heads of State Forum, which joined Member Line Chairmen, Presidents, and CEOs along with destination Ministers of Tourism and Prime Ministers, and an exclusive function for Panamanian representatives and cruise executives.



Panama also pulled out all the stops to showcase its products and cruise tourism potential to the prestigious audience. It offered some of the best to see, eat and hear in the destination while displaying what it can offer not only cruise guests, but also cruise ships in terms of provisioning and homeporting ability  including through exclusive preview tours for cruise executives to see the new Amador cruise port and developments in the Colon 2000 port, such as a new duty-free shopping and leisure complex.



The Conference is one of many events that FCCA coordinates for its partners and Member Lines to stay at the forefront of information about both the cruise industry and stakeholders companies and destinations, along with developing bilateral relationships that lead to success for all  something more important than ever as cruise lines look to opportunities like longer stays, multi-port calls, and homeporting, along with purchasing more goods directly from destinations.



FCCA Platinum Members will soon see business hit high gears on the high seas at the annual FCCA PAMAC Cruise Summit, taking place December 10-13 on board Royal Caribbean Internationals Freedom of the Seas. Plans are also currently in the works for the land-based annual PAMAC Conference.



FCCA Platinum Membership events are essential to both the members and cruise line representatives, said Micky Arison, Chairman, Carnival Corporation & plc and the FCCA. They join some of the industrys most influential decision-makers with significant stakeholders from the Caribbean and Latin America, which leads to positive developments for all parties.
PHILIPSBURG:--- The Soualiga Employers Association (SEA) has taken note of the Honorable Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor, Mr. Omar E.C. Ottleys press release last weeks newspaper, in which he has alluded to the increasing of the minimum wage of employees. The SEA views this statement and measure to be very premature considering there was no elucidation as to the possible macro-economic impact such measure can have on the household, business sector, and the economy as a whole. Furthermore, such a measure would prove very futile if it is not implemented simultaneously with other measures that would in fact reduce the rising cost of living that is currently being experienced. The SEA is of the opinion that only in this manner, the objective of increasing the minimum would be achieved.

Given the current global economic crisis and in particular our domestic situation of very little or slow economic activity, the SEA is concerned that an increase in the minimum wage at this time would have damning consequences on the employers and the business sector. These consequences would eventually be felt on the part of the entire economy. With the already slow to very little business activity and employers having to increase their wage bill through the proposed mandate, inevitably this would either further increase our levels of unemployment due to layoffs in an effort to control cost or it would inflate the economy more than it already is, since employers would seek to recuperate their increased operational cost.

The SEA is hereby advising the Honorable Minister, that before any measures are adopted or implemented, a thorough consultation with stakeholders and the conducting of an economic impact study are necessary. Additionally, the SEA is hereby advising that instead of seeking to increase the minimum wage, efforts should be placed on the implementation of strategies and policies that would reduce the high cost of living in the areas of, housing, utility, and food. Such actions require the input of the entire Council of Ministers; hence we are calling for such measures of reducing the cost of living and the cost of doing business to be placed high on the listing of priorities of government with practical and implemental actions.

The SEA, firmly believes that with a reduction in the cost of housing, utility, and food, persons currently earning minimum wage would stand to benefit more, since their basic needs would become more affordable.
PHILIPSBURG:---The board of the United St. Maarten (US) party on Tuesday questioned how the National Alliance (NA) led coalition government can govern effectively when issues that should be dealt with in coalition meetings are being resolved on the floor of Parliament through motions against sitting Ministers. The board of US also questioned what vision government has for the country moving forward.

The US lamented that with everything St. Maarten is going through economically and socially, the people of the country are not getting vision and planning, but divisions with the governing National Alliance and United People (UP) party.

It seems like every day, the board said, the people of this country are faced with a scandal or accusations of wrong-doing by the government. It feels like deals are being made among the coalition partners to put out the daily fires. It feels like the coalition is so busy trying to find ways to cover their backs, nobody thinks it is important to consult and inform the public about anything, the board said.



Effective governing, from which your population benefits, requires cohesion between the coalition representatives in parliament and the executive level. Effective leadership requires vision and a plan, but most importantly governing responsibly requires a commitment to sound and transparent decision making in the full interest of the people of this country and not the blind execution of instructions, the US board said.

The three motions tabled and passed almost unanimously in Parliament last week, one coming from the leader of the NA faction against one of its own ministers, brought more questions than answers with regards to leadership than the motion itself. It also highlighted the division and total lack of communication that exist in both factions of this NA lead coalition, the US board said.

The US board said that with another decision pending with regards to data privacy, the people are again being kept in the dark on a decision with far-reaching consequences without full disclosure and/or consultation, which leads US to question governments commitment to responsible leadership.

Data protection has now been added to country packages that have yet to be disclosed in its entirety to the people on whose behalf these decisions are being made. The constitution guarantees the people of this country fundamental rights that this government continues to trample on. It is governments sworn duty to uphold the constitution and make decisions in the best interest of its people. Based on its decisions thus far, it is questionable whose vision is being executed, and at what cost, the board concluded.
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The Pulaski County Attorney's Office and Performance Foodservice-Somerset are teaming up to provide local first responders with a free meal as appreciation for the service. The event is set for this Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Hal Rogers Fire Training Center.
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Anticipated decrease in MnDOT budget has county worried about funding roundabout

Jaci Smith / Docken Malecha

Even as county leaders plan for a roundabout at the eastern Hwy. 19/Interstate 35 interchange, theyre worrying whether theres enough to cover its construction.

The countys cobbled together about $2.4 million in grant money to go with $750,000 in county funds, but during the Rice County Board of Commissioners Tuesday meeting, which included a virtual discussion with regional Minnesota Department of Transportation representatives, Board Chair Jeff Docken wondered what options the county has if bids exceed the funds available.

How are we going to split this up? he asked. That would be a concern of ours.

MnDOT District 6 Planning Director Heather Lukes deflected, saying that shes waiting for updated project costs.

But Docken persisted, telling Lukes that I dont think the Rice County board should bear the full responsibility of any deficiency.

Docken has reason to be concerned. Not only do construction costs continue to go up, but Lukes started off Tuesdays presentation with a chart showing a steady decline in funding for the 11-county District 6s road and bridge work, from close to $100 million in 2022 to about $70 million in 2026. The Hwy. 19/I-35 roundabout project is expected in 2023.

The reduction causes many of our projects to have to slide out a year or two, said Lukes, who added that bridge funding has decreased quite a bit.

What that means is that its unlikely there will be any extra dollars for projects like the roundabout, which is dependent solely on grants and county funds. And given Dockens line of questioning Tuesday, it appears to be a sore spot for the commissioner. After all, Hwy. 19 and I-35 are the states responsibility.

Commissioners for years pressed MnDOT officials to upgrade the interchange, which they see as unsafe. Making a left hand turn onto Hwy. 19 coming off the ramp from northbound I-35 can be challenging, especially for semis headed west to the Flying J to fill up. County Engineer Dennis Luebbe has said increased traffic to the travel center has worsened backups on the exit ramp.

The proposed roundabout, with six exits and entrances, is designed to enable easy access to and from I-35, Hwy 19 and several frontage roads. Its also hoped that the roundabout will increase prospects for economic development nearby.

It wasnt until 2019, after a decade of requests, that MnDOT officials suggested the county take the lead on the project. And it did. But despite a sizable budget, county leaders are still worried about filling a large funding gap.

Despite a Rice Countys -cent transportation sales tax and a $20 per vehicle surcharge  both dedicated to transportation  county leaders say it still has doesnt have enough to make needed repairs and upgrades. Commission Galen Malecha appealed to state Rep. Brian Daniels and Sen. John Jasinski, both of Faribault, who attended the meeting, for additional dollars, particularly for cities.

Jasinski, who agreed general transportation doesnt get enough state funding, previewed discussions about a possible surcharge on electric vehicles in the 2022 Legislative session. EVs are heavier, due to the batteries need to operate them, therefore more damaging to roads, he said. Jasinski also suggested there may be talks about additional taxes on auto parts. Both, he said, would create additional transportation funding.

Related
Skywatcher and photographer David Paleino snapped this view of the total lunar eclipse of June 15, 2011 from Italy using a Fujifilm FinePix S2000HD camera.

Lunar eclipses occur when Earth's shadow blocks the sun's light, which otherwise reflects off the moon. There are three types  total, partial and penumbral  with the most dramatic being a total lunar eclipse, in which Earth's shadow completely covers the moon.

The next lunar eclipse will be a partial lunar eclipse on Nov. 19. The event will be visible from North and South America, Australia, and parts of Europe and Asia. The eclipse will peak at 4:02 a.m. EST (0902 GMT). The entire event will last about six hours.

You'll be able to watch the Beaver moon lunar eclipse online here and on the Space.com homepage. The webcasts begin at 1:02 a.m. EST (0602 GMT).

If you hope to snap a photo of the eclipse, here's our guide on how to photograph the moon with a camera. If you need imaging equipment, our best cameras for astrophotography and best lenses for astrophotography have recommendations to make sure you're ready for the next eclipse.

The latest lunar eclipse before November was the "Super Flower Blood Moon" of May 26, 2021.

Throughout history, eclipses have inspired awe and even fear, especially when total lunar eclipses turned the moon blood-red, an effect that terrified people who had no understanding of what causes an eclipse and therefore blamed the events on this god or that. Below, you'll find the science and history of lunar eclipses, learn how they work, and see a list of the next ones on tap.

See also our guide to solar eclipses.

A total lunar eclipse can turn the Moon as red as the planet Mars appears. (Image credit: NASA)

When is the next total lunar eclipse?

The next total lunar eclipse, or "blood moon," will occur May 15-16, 2022 and it will be visible from North and South America, Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. Another total lunar eclipse will follow on Nov. 8, 2022 and it will be visible from Asia, Australia, North America, parts of northern and eastern Europe, and most of South America. Those will be the only two lunar eclipses in 2022.

NASA keeps a list predicting lunar eclipses until 2100. They also keep data about past lunar eclipses. During the 21st century, Earth will experience a total of 228 lunar eclipses, according to the space agency.

Total Lunar Eclipse of May 15-16, 2022

The total lunar eclipse May 15-16, 2022, will be visible from North and South America, Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. (Image credit: NASA)

The entire partial and total phases of this Blood Moon total lunar eclipse will be visible Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. But the entire eclipse from start to end will be visible from Eastern North America, Central America and South America. The eclipse will peak at 00:11 a.m. EDT (0411 GMT). This is the first of only two lunar eclipses in 2022.

When is the next partial lunar eclipse?

Map of the partial lunar eclipse of Nov. 19, 2021. (Image credit: Fred Espenak/NASA)

The next partial lunar eclipse will occur on Nov. 19, 2021.

Although the moon won't technically pass entirely through the deepest part of Earth's shadow, or umbra, most of the lunar face will turn a vivid reddish-color.

All 50 states will be able to catch the eclipse in its entirety, which peaks at 4:04 a.m. EST (0904 GMT). This will be the second and final lunar eclipse of 2021.

What is a lunar eclipse?

This montage of images taken by skywatcher Kieth Burns shows the Dec. 20, 2010 total lunar eclipse. The photos won a NASA contest to become an official NASA/JPL wallpaper for the public. (Image credit: NASA/JPL-via Kieth Burns)

A lunar eclipse can occur only at full moon. A total lunar eclipse can happen only when the sun, Earth and moon are perfectly lined up  anything less than perfection creates a partial lunar eclipse or no eclipse at all. Some understanding of simple celestial mechanics explains how lunar eclipses work.

Related: How lunar eclipses work (infographic)

Because the moon's orbit around Earth lies in a slightly different plane than Earth's orbit around the sun, perfect alignment for an eclipse doesn't occur at every full moon. A total lunar eclipse develops over time, typically a couple hours for the whole event. Here's how it works: Earth casts two shadows that fall on the moon during a lunar eclipse: The umbra is a full, dark shadow. The penumbra is a partial outer shadow. The moon passes through these shadows in stages. The initial and final stages  when the moon is in the penumbral shadow  are not so noticeable, so the best part of an eclipse is during the middle of the event, when the moon is in the umbral shadow.

Total eclipses are a freak of cosmic happenstance. Ever since the moon formed, about 4.5 billion years ago, it has been inching away from our planet (by about 1.6 inches, or 4 centimeters per year). The setup right now is perfect: the moon is at the perfect distance for Earth's shadow to cover the moon totally, but just barely. Billions of years from now, that won't be the case.

According to NASA, two to four solar eclipses occur each year, while lunar eclipses are less frequent. "In any one calendar year, the maximum number of eclipses is four solar and three lunar," the agency said. However, while solar eclipses can only be seen along a roughly 50-mile wide path, each lunar eclipse is visible from over half the Earth.

From the Moon, the Earth completely blocks the Sun during a total lunar eclipse (Image credit: NASA)

Types of lunar eclipses

Total lunar eclipse: Earth's full (umbral) shadow falls on the moon. The moon won't completely disappear, but it will be cast in an eerie darkness that makes it easy to miss if you were not looking for the eclipse. Some sunlight passing through Earth's atmosphere is scattered and refracted, or bent, and refocused on the moon, giving it a dim glow even during totality. If you were standing on the moon, looking back at the sun, you'd see the black disk of Earth blocking the entire sun, but you'd also see a ring of reflected light glowing around the edges of Earth  that's the light that falls on the moon during a total lunar eclipse.

Partial lunar eclipse: Some eclipses are only partial. But even a total lunar eclipse goes through a partial phase on either side of totality. During the partial phase, the sun, Earth and moon are not quite perfectly aligned, and Earth's shadow appears to take a bite out of the moon.

"What people see from Earth during a partial lunar eclipse depends on how the sun, Earth and moon are lined up," according to NASA.

Penumbral lunar eclipse: This is the least interesting type of eclipse, because the moon is in Earth's faint outer (penumbral) shadow. Unless you're a seasoned skywatcher, you likely won't notice the effect, in which the moon is subtly shaded by Earth's shadow.

"The outer part of Earth's penumbra is so pale that you won't notice anything until the moon's edge has slid at least halfway in," Alan MacRobert, a senior editor at Sky & Telescope magazine, said in a statement.

A penumbral lunar eclipse is when the moon passes through just part of the Earth's shadow (Image credit: Robin Lee)

The beauty of a total lunar eclipse

The moon may turn red or coppery colored during the total portion of an eclipse. The red moon is possible because while the moon is in total shadow, some light from the sun passes through Earth's atmosphere and is bent toward the moon. While other colors in the spectrum are blocked and scattered by Earth's atmosphere, red light tends to make it through easier. The effect is to cast all the planet's sunrises and sunsets on the moon.

The moon turned a blood red over the Sossusvlei Desert Lodge on NamibRand Nature Reserve in Namibia in this stunning photo taken by skywatcher George Tucker on June 15, 2011. (Image credit: George Tucker)

"The exact color that the moon appears depends on the amount of dust and clouds in the atmosphere," according to NASA scientists. "If there are extra particles in the atmosphere, from say a recent volcanic eruption, the moon will appear a darker shade of red."

Christopher Columbus leveraged a blood-red eclipse in 1504 to frighten natives on Jamaica into feeding him and his crew. It was on Columbus' fourth and final voyage to the New World. An epidemic of shipworms ate holes in the ships of his fleet; Columbus' was forced to abandon two ships. He then beached his last two on Jamaica on June 25, 1503. The natives welcomed the castaways and fed them. But after six months, Columbus' crew mutinied, and robbed and murdered some of the Jamaicans, who had grown weary of feeding the crew.

Columbus had an almanac that foretold a lunar eclipse on Feb. 29, 1504. He met the local chief, and told him the Christian god was angry with his people for no longer supplying food. Columbus said to expect a sign of God's displeasure three nights later, when he would make the full moon appear "inflamed with wrath." When the blood-red moon came to pass, the natives were terrified and "with great howling and lamentation came running from every direction to the ships laden with provisions," according to an account by Columbus' son.

Just before the total phase of the eclipse was about to end, Columbus said God had pardoned the natives and would bring the moon back. The crew was well fed until help arrived in November and Columbus and his men sailed back to Spain.

This photo of the total lunar eclipse of Dec. 20, 2010 by Jimmy Westlake shows the blue edge to Earth's shadow set against the reddened moon. (Image credit: Jimmy Westlake)

How to watch a lunar eclipse

Lunar eclipses are among the easiest skywatching events to observe. Simply go out, look up and enjoy. You don't need a telescope or any other special equipment. However, binoculars or a small telescope will bring out details in the lunar surface  moonwatching is as interesting during an eclipse as anytime. If the eclipse occurs during winter, bundle up if you plan to be out for the duration  an eclipse can take a couple hours to unfold. Bring warm drinks and blankets or chairs for comfort.

If you want to photograph the next lunar eclipse, be sure to check out our guide by veteran astrophotographers Imelda Joson and Edwin Aguirre.

"We can get really good science out of what happens to the surface of the moon during total lunar eclipses but again, the cool thing is that the moon changes color," Noah Petro, a research scientist at the Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland, told Space.com. "It's something fun to see  it's benign, but it's a change. And anytime we see change in the skies it's always kind of exciting."

Additional reporting by Nola Taylor Redd, Space.com contributor. This article was updated on Oct. 26, 2021 by Space.com Editor Ben Biggs.
Space shuttle Columbia was the first shuttle to reach space when it was launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Center on Apr. 12, 1981.

Columbia carried dozens of astronauts into space during the next two decades, reaching several milestones. The shuttle also underwent upgrades as technology advanced.

Space shuttle Columbia's final mission ended in disaster. The shuttle and seven-member crew were lost over Texas when Columbia burned up during reentry on Feb 1, 2003. Columbia's loss prompted NASA to do extra safety checks in orbit for all future missions.

Related: Columbia Disaster: What happened and what NASA learned

Space shuttle Columbia: Decades of development

Discussions on developing a reusable spacecraft began in earnest in 1966, when NASA was looking to figure out what programs would come after Apollo. While NASA was tasked with beginning the work, development was held off for years by budgetary constraints, according to NASA history documents.

Work resumed more seriously when the first landing on the moon was imminent, in 1969. At that time, then-President Richard Nixon appointed a Space Task Group to look at future space options, and in subsequent years NASA began awarding design contracts for shuttle ideas.

However, according to NASA history documents, when NASA submitted its September 1970 budget to the White House, it became clear that the Nixon administration and Congress would not support the development of a space station and space shuttle at the same time. So NASA was forced to rethink its expectations and make some changes to reduce costs.

Space Shuttle Columbia: Key facts  First flight: STS-1 (Apr. 12 -14, 1981)  Last flight: STS-107 (Jan. 16, 2003 - Feb. 1, 2003)  Number of missions: 28  Time in space: 300 days, 17 hours, 40 minutes, 22 seconds (Source: CBS)

Some compromises were made in the design in response to budgetary constraints and input from the military, which was expected to be a major customer of the shuttle. For example, the size of the cargo bay was increased to accommodate large military satellites. Also, it was decided to make the shuttle only partially reusable instead of fully reusable to save on development costs, although critics noted this would increase the costs of individual flights according to NASA history documents.

Construction began on a prototype on Jun. 4, 1974. That spacecraft was designated Enterprise. Its purpose was to perform test flights and landings, space shuttle Enterprise never flew into outer space. Construction on space shuttle Columbia began on Mar. 27, 1975.

The space shuttle Columbia was named after the first American ship to circumnavigate the globe and also the command module for the Apollo 11 moon landing according to NASA.

Space Shuttle Columbia flight milestones

Crowds gather on Rogers Dry Lake at Edwards Air Force Base to see the first landing by Space Shuttle Columbia on Apr. 14, 1981. (Image credit: NASA)

Space shuttle Columbia's first flight into space took place on Apr. 12, 1981, according to NASA. The shuttle program was officially referred to as the Space Transportation System (STS), so this flight was STS-1. The mission had a two-person crew: the commander, John Young, a veteran of Gemini and Apollo, and the pilot, Bob Crippen. The objective was to make sure that Columbia worked well in space. Media attention, in particular, focused on the new system of 30,000 individual tiles covering the shuttle, which NASA had struggled with during the early days, according to NASA history documents.

Columbia returned from its first mission safely and several more test flights ran between 1981 and 1982. This included perhaps the most dramatic landing of the shuttle program, STS-3. An "autoland" system malfunctioned before landing on STS-3; the crew took over (as planned) just before landing, but the shuttle touched the runway faster than normal. After landing, Columbia's nose pitched up unexpectedly due to a software problem, according to commander Jack Lousma's oral history with NASA.

Space shuttle Columbia's first operational flight was STS-5, when it launched on Nov. 11, 1982, and deployed two commercial communications satellites, according to NASA.

The first operational flight for Columbia was STS-5 in November 1982. NASA's shuttle Challenger then took on the next three flights, and then Columbia flew once more in November 1983 (STS-9), carrying the Spacelab experiment module for the first time as well as the first European Space Agency astronaut Ulf Merbold of Germany, according to NASA.

Columbia was then shelved for major upgrades (including adding heads-up displays) before flying on just one mission in 1986; that mission carried Democrat Bill Nelson on board, among the astronauts. (Nelson would go on to become NASA Administrator in 2020 after leaving the Senate.) Shuttle operations were interrupted by the Space shuttle Challenger disaster in January 1986. It wouldn't be until 1989 that Columbia flew again.

Related: In photos: NASA's first space shuttle flight, STS-1 on Columbia

Space Shuttle Columbia Science and telescope operations

Columbia flew 28 missions in its lifetime, logging more than 300 days in space. In its earliest days, it participated in repairing and deploying satellites and telescopes, but as NASA's priorities changed to science, Columbia flew several productive science missions in the 1990s and 2000s.

Over the years it flew several microgravity laboratory missions and on Feb. 22, 1996, launched on mission STS-75 with a tethered satellite system experiment. The mission was designed to carry the Tethered Satellite System Reflight (TSS-1R) into orbit and then deploy it from a tether, according to ESA. However, the tether broke before it had reached the desired distance of 12.9 miles (20.7 km), according to ESA.

In 1999 and 2002, though, Columbia shifted operations back into telescope operations. STS-93 was scheduled to fly on Jul. 20, 1999, to send the Chandra X-Ray Observatory into space.

According to NASA, a suspected hydrogen problem scrubbed the initial launch only seven seconds before liftoff, but upon further examination, NASA determined that the high readings were false.

Columbia lifted off on the Chandra X-ray Observatory mission (STS-93) on Jul. 23, 1999, but its orbit was seven miles shallower than planned due to a slightly early main engine cutoff, according to NASA. Adjustments in orbit were necessary to bring Columbia to the correct altitude and the crew successfully deployed Chandra during the mission.

Space shuttle Columbia's final successful mission was the Hubble Space Telescope Servicing mission  STS-109 when Columbia launched on Mar. 1, 2002.

Columbia's mission included five spacewalks to service the Hubble Space Telescope; where astronauts replaced an aging power control unit, removed and installed solar arrays and conducted science instrument upgrades. Servicing time hit a record, at the time, of 35 hours and 55 minutes, breaking the previous record of 35 hours and 28 minutes set by Hubble's first servicing mission STS-61, according to NASA.

This would be Columbia's next-to-last mission in orbit, although nobody knew it at the time.

The Columbia disaster

NASA crew portrait of Space Shuttle Columbia STS-107 crew. Seated in the front, from left, are: Astronauts Rick D. Husband, mission commander; Kalpana Chawla, mission specialist; and William C. McCool, pilot. Standing, from left, are: David M. Brown, Laurel B. Clark, and Michael P. Anderson, all mission specialists; and Ilan Ramon, payload specialist, representing the Israeli Space Agency. (Image credit: NASA)

Space shuttle Columbia's final flight was STS-107, a nearly 16-day research mission focusing on scientific experiments. The STS-107 crew included the first Israeli astronaut, Ilan Ramon, and the first Indian-born woman in space, Kalpana Chawla.

On Feb. 1, 2003, NASA lost contact with Space Shuttle Columbia during the final minutes of its reentry over Texas.

Controllers spent several minutes trying to hail the shuttle as the families of the astronauts waited at the expected landing site at the Kennedy Space Center.

As the communications blackout lengthened, and video footage emerged of a large flying object breaking into pieces, it became clear that the crew had not survived.

According to a crew survival report released by NASA in 2008, the crew likely lived through the initial breakup but fell unconscious quickly as the cabin depressurized. They died as the shuttle broke up around them. According to the crew survival report, their remains were retrieved from the ground and identified through DNA and dental records.

Space shuttle Columbia's final crew Commander: Rick Husband Pilot: Willie McCool Payload Commander: Michael Anderson Mission Specialists: Kalpana Chawla, David Brown, Laurel Clark Payload Specialist: Ilan Ramon

The Columbia Accident Investigation Board was formed to look at the causes of the breakup and to prevent it from happening again. Harold W. Gehman Jr., former commander-in-chief of the U.S. Joint Forces Command, chaired the board. It included participation from a dozen people, including NASA officials and former astronaut Sally Ride, who was also a member of Challenger's investigation.

The board concluded that a piece of foam from Columbia's external tank hit the shuttle during launch and caused a fatal breach in Columbia's wing. This "foam debris" problem was well-known and documented in the years before Columbia's launch, but over time NASA grew to accept it as part of spaceflight. The board recommended this problem be addressed.

NASA made changes to the external tank as well as put in new safety procedures for shuttle missions. Among them, on every spaceflight, the crew was required to spend several hours scanning the shuttle's bottom for broken tiles.

Forever remembered

NASA still remembers Space shuttle Columbia, as well as past crews lost in the pursuit of spaceflight, on an annual Day of Remembrance every January. Several memorials have been dedicated to the crew as well. For example, seven asteroids that orbit the sun between Mars and Jupiter were named after the seven crew members of STS-107.

Visitors to the Kennedy Space Center can view debris from the Columbia mission (as well as Challenger) at an exhibit called "Forever Remembered," which opened in 2015. The debris is on display at the visitor's center and shows window frames from Columbia, as well as personal artifacts from the astronauts. The families of the astronauts collaborated on creating the exhibit.

Meanwhile, some of the experiments from Columbia's last flight returned useful data. This included a set of roundworms (Caenorhabditis elegans) that survived reentry and successfully reproduced. Some of the descendants flew in space aboard space shuttle Endeavour in May 2011.
The killer is revealed on this weeks episode of Only Murders in the Building, but thats not the only thing worth talking about in this decently eventful freshman finale.

If you saw last weeks episode, you might find this a little anticlimactic (werent you expecting a last-minute red herring?), but coming off of the revelation that Jan was formerly in a relationship with Tim Kono, we quickly discover that Tims ex - and Charles current girlfriend - was in fact the Arconia killer. As Mabel and Oliver break into her apartment and find the poison (kindly labeled so as to avoid ambiguity), while at the same time, Charles manipulates her into confessing in his apartment.

As it turns out, Tim had broken it off with Jan just around the time that he had acquired Zoes emerald ring - although his reasoning was completely unrelated to his investigation into the Dimases. Jan had found one of Tims black market rings and, assuming he had ended things to propose to another woman, soon began to plan his demise. On the night of the murder, Jan, tired of being second fiddle - er, bassoon - played a recording of her usual playing from her window so as to create an alibi for herself. She invited Tim over for a final goodbye, secretly drugged his drink, and sent him home. She then pulled the fire alarm to create a loud noise while she snuck into his apartment and finished him off. Evelyn the cat, unfortunately, began to clean up the crime scene - and ingested enough of the poison to do herself in as well.

As she spills her evil plan to him, Charles knows Jan will likely try to poison him as well, and has been taking stage sips of his drink accordingly. Too bad for Charles, though, because Jan apparently likes to switch up her MO, instead drugging the handkerchief she used to wipe his bleeding nose earlier in the night. She leaves a doped-up Charles alone in his apartment with the (newly reopened) fireplace on, and she runs down to the basement to engineer a gas leak that will consume the building conveniently getting rid of all of the neighbors who might know about her relationship with Tim.

After some top-notch slapstick in the elevator, a half-capacitated Charles manages to meet up with Oliver and Mabel, and shares a recording he made of Jan confessing to everything. The three rush to the basement, or as Oliver calls it, the irritable bowel of the Arconia, to save the building and stop the killer in the down-to-the-wire podcast finale of their dreams.

Just in time, Mabel and Oliver manage to turn off the gas, but are caught by Jan. Jan threatens the threesome with a gun, but Oliver catches her off guard by bravely shoving Charles into her, and Mabel punches her out using Zoes emerald ring.

Because they saved the lives of quite literally everyone in the building, the trios evictions are quickly reversed. With the podcast is finished, Oscar and Mabel officially get together, Oliver apologizes to his son, and Charles reaches out once again to his estranged pseudo-daughter, Lucy.

But even as our heroes celebrate, all is still not well at the Arconia. Does anyone else feel like theres still a couple of loose ends? Mabel asks - and shes right. Just after this, she heads to her apartment to grab more champagne. And a few minutes later, sirens once again blare in the Arconia parking lot, as Charles and Oliver receive matching texts from an unknown number telling them to get out of the building ASAP.

In the scene we saw in the very first seconds of the pilot, Charles and Oliver chase after Mabel to rescue her from...whatever is going on, only to find her covered in blood sitting over a body. The unfortunate victim, however, is not Oscar, as we were somewhat led to think, but Bunny, clad in an Only Murders hoodie and stabbed in the chest with Mabels knitting needle. And right after Mabel told her, publicly and loudly, that she was the most hated person in the building - oops! Now the murder solvers are the murder suspects, and the Arconia sleuths are taken away by the police in handcuffs. And who is there to witness the arrest but Cinda Canning, having found the subjects of her newest podcast - Coming this fall, only murderers in the building.

Aaaand thats that! Theres quite a bit to say on this show - many have already rightfully praised its fresh, breezy writing style and profound depiction of intergenerational friendship, so I won't focus too deeply on that. I had plenty of doubts on it, but as a Martin/Short fan from early childhood, I was eager to give it a shot, and Im certainly glad I did. The path this show goes down feels refreshingly untread, while staying familiar enough to not make you feel like a TV critic just by watching it. Only Murders markets itself as a clever riff on true crime, but much like a good mystery, the it goes much deeper than that; if you will, in a whole new direction."

A capable whodunnit nestled inside a NY puff piece, Only Murders season 1 was never capital-G Great, but it was more than satiating, tickling the same yearning for the combination of urban life and late-year aesthetics that only Dimension 20s The Unsleeping City and reading The New York Times in a busy coffee shop can satisfy. And its this very particular element of this show that, I think, sits at the baseline of why it works in the peculiar way it does. Much like the fabled New York immigrant, the series' main trio want to be a part of it - although it, in this situation, might be the bringing to justice of cold-blooded murderers. They seek to find their purpose in the workings of the city around them, in a more twisted way than most, sure, but that glint in their eyes is the same as any other Tom, Dick or Jane, and it is ultimately what brings them together.

And is that not the spirit of NYC at its purest? Some shows - Amazon Primes Modern Love is a great example - use their New York backdrop as a character in itself, its magic and disgusting mystique an actor the same as its star-studded cast. Only Murders in the Building, however, is not quite the same. The city may not be a character here, but it is undeniably ever-present, in its careful character design, the unfathomable murk-meets-the magic of television story at its core;it is stereotypically New York in its very way of being.

What did you think of "Open and Shut?" What are you looking forward to in season 2? Any lingering questions? Talk to me in the comments!
Gaborone (Botswana) 26 October 2021 (SPS)- The Deputy Ambassador of the Saharawi Republic in Botswana, Mr. Mohamed Emboiric Samba, participated to the SADC Day of solidarity for the removal of economic sanctions against Zimbabwe, organized Yesterday morning at the Embassy of Zimbabwe in Gaborone.

The event was attended by a Representative from Botswana Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation besides Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Charges dAffaires of: Algeria, Angola, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Russia, Saharawi Republic and South Africa (in Alphabetic order.)

In his solidarity Statement the Saharawi Deputy Ambassador stressed Saharawi Government and peoples clear and open support and solidarity with the Government and people of Zimbabwe in their legitimate and just demand for the total lifting of the illegal and unilateral economic sanctions imposed on the country by the EU and the US.

He further indicated that these sanctions are against the international law, they are against the most basic rights of the people of Zimbabwe who have a legitimate right to development, economic interests and trade, adding that no single or collective states have got the right to impose their laws and wills on free peoples in violation of international law, values and norms.

Other representatives of States present to the event delivered similar statements in support of Zimbabwes right to get rid of the economic sanctions. (SPS)

090/500/60 (SPS)
COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP)  Attorneys in three different civil lawsuits against Alex Murdaugh want the court to have independent representatives take control of the money and other assets of the South Carolina lawyer involved in a half-dozen state police investigations.

The court motions in the cases, all filed last week, said they fear Murdaugh is trying to hide millions of dollars they could possibly collect in their lawsuits by shifting money between unknown accounts and potentially selling off property and a boat after he turned all his affairs over to his surviving son, Buster Murdaugh.

State police first started investigating Alex Murdaugh and his family in June, when he found his wife and other son shot to death at their home. No one has been charged in that case.

The similar motions in the three lawsuits include several documents: a photo of Buster Murdaugh that lawyers said was taken in October at a Las Vegas casino; a nearly $1 million mortgage a property owner paid off to Alex Murdaugh; an online listing asking $114,000 for Murdaugh's boat; and a nearly 2-year-old unpaid tax bill that could lead to the auction of Murdaugh's beach home on Edisto Island.

Murdaugh's attorneys have not responded to the request to have two lawyers review and catalog all of Murdaugh's assets, bank accounts, insurance policies and expenditures and approve his spending.

Alex Murdaugh has engaged in repeated dishonesty, deception and fraud. He has shown that he will go to extraordinary lengths to misappropriate, steal, transfer or otherwise dispose of money in a manner that benefits him or his family, with complete disregard for the interests of third persons, the lawyers wrote in their motions.

Two of the lawsuits involve a fatal February 2019 boat crash where Paul Murdaugh was charged after investigators said he was driving drunk and recklessly. They were filed by the family of a 19-year-old woman killed and a man on the boat who said the Murdaugh family tried to pin him as the boat's driver.

The third lawsuit asking for control of Murdaugh's money was filed by the family of Murdaugh's late housekeeper Gloria Satterfield. She died after a 2018 fall in the family's home.

Murdaugh has been charged with illegally pocketing nearly $3 million worth of insurance settlements that was supposed to go to Satterfields estate.

At his bond hearing, prosecutors detailed how Murdaugh stole the money by diverting it to his accounts. They said he then paid off a $100,000 credit card bill, transferred more than $300,000 to his father and $735,000 to himself.

The lawsuits noted well over half the settlement money remained unaccounted for in the prosecution's presentation.

Certainly, if Alex Murdaugh is capable of apparently diverting stolen assets in this manner, he is also capable of diverting legitimate assets," the attorneys wrote in their lawsuits.

Murdaugh, 53, was first arrested Sept. 16 and was accused of trying to arrange his own death so Buster Murdaugh could collect a $10 million life insurance policy. That same day, the father signed a power of attorney for all his affairs over to his son, according to court records.

While the power of attorney may have some legitimate purposes for someone unable to manage their own finances, the power of attorney also provides a mechanism for Buster Murdaugh to transfer, sell or otherwise handle Alex Murdaughs assets in a manner that diverts the assets," the motion said.

On Sept. 23, someone who owed a nearly $1 million mortgage to Alex Murdaugh from 2013 paid it off. Records don't indicate how much money changed hands.

The motions also include a photo that the lawyers said is Buster Murdaugh at a gambling table at the Venetian Hotel in October. The documents don't say how the photo was obtained.

In addition to the investigations into the stolen insurance money and the insurance fraud, state police continue to investigate the shooting deaths, millions of dollars missing from Murdaugh's former law firm that was founded by his great-grandfather, a 2015 hit-and-run death and whether Murdaugh and his family obstructed the investigation into the boat crash.

Murdaugh insists he had nothing to do with the June deaths of his wife, Maggie, 52, and their son Paul, 22. Murdaugh said he returned to their rural Colleton County home to find them shot to death. Tight-lipped state police have neither named any suspects nor ruled anyone out.

Murdaugh remains in jail without bond on the charges he stole money from his late housekeeper's estate. A judge last week asked for a report on Murdaugh's mental state before considering whether to set bond.

___

Follow Jeffrey Collins on Twitter at https://twitter.com/JSCollinsAP.
Kathryn Jean Lopez is senior fellow at the National Review Institute, editor-at-large of National Review magazine and author of the new book A Year With the Mystics: Visionary Wisdom for Daily Living. She is also chair of Cardinal Dolans pro-life commission in New York. She can be contacted at klopez@nationalreview.com.
Salame stick packaged snacks sold primarily at Trader Joes stores have been linked to possible salmonella contamination, sickening people in eight states, health officials warned.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a food safety alert Saturday afternoon, citing the Citterio brand of Premium Italian-Style Salame Sticks as the likely source of the outbreak.

Citterio USA is based in Freeland.

Trader Joes stores have voluntarily stopped selling the products at their stores nationwide, the CDC says.

People should not eat the Citterio brand Premium Italian-Style Salame Sticks, the CDC said in a news release, purchased from Trader Joes or another store. If you have the product, no matter what the best-by date is, the CDC says it should be thrown out. The CDC also advises that people wash items and surfaces that may have touched the products using hot soapy water or a dishwasher.

The CDCs alert says there have been 20 people who have become sick in eight states.

Those who became ill ranged in age from 2 to 75, with a median age of 11, according to investigation details. Three people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported.

Most of those who have become sick, are younger than 18 years old.

Children are more likely to get very sick from salmonella, the CDC says.

Although a total of 20 people have reportedly been infected, the number of sick people is likely much higher, the CDC says.

This is because many infected people recover without medical care and are not tested for salmonella, the CDC says.

Of the nine people interviewed about foods they ate before becoming sick, eight said they ate or possibly ate the salame sticks, the CDC says.

This outbreak is a different strain of salmonella and not related to ongoing outbreaks. In the past week, the CDC linked raw onions imported from Chihuahua, Mexico, to an ongoing salmonella outbreak in 37 states, including Michigan, that was first announced in August.

The CDC estimates that salmonella bacteria causes more than 1 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations and 420 deaths in the U.S. every year, and most of the illnesses come from food.
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As many as 792,000 doses of the Janssen COVID-19 vaccine from Johnson & Johnson will arrive at the Cantacuzino National Institute for Military Medicine Research and Development on Wednesday, according to the National COVID-19 Vaccination Coordination Committee (CNCAV).

Transport is provided by the manufacturing company, and the vaccine doses will be brought to Bucharest by land. The doses will be stored at the National Storage Centre and then distributed to regional centres.

"The National COVID-19 Vaccine Storage Centre at the Cantacuzino Institute is fully authorised by Romania's National Authority for Medicines and Medical Devices (ANMDMR), the national authority with jurisdiction in the field of medical supplies for human use., Agerpres informs.

To date, Romania has received 2,098,900 Janssen doses and already used 1,237,488 to immunise the public.

CNCAV mentions that the allocation of vaccine doses is made according to a delivery schedule provided by the manufacturing company, meaning that, periodically, Romania receives the vaccine batches necessary to immunise its population.
Deputy George Simion, co-chairman of AUR (Alliance for the Union of Romanians) and the other members of Parliament from the party went on Tuesday to the Legal and Health committees in the Senate, where they said that they (the committees) "want to introduce, non-statutory, against the laws, the green certificate to vote".

"We are in the Romanian Senate, where they want to introduce, non-statutory, against the laws, the green certificate to the vote, meaning mandatory vaccination or testing from their own pocket for the medical staff, for the teaching staff. All Members of Parliament from AUR are here, because earlier we were thrown out by Mrs. Scintei from the Legal Committee and by Mister Fenechiu and the Romanian people have the right to know what is happening. We will go to the Health committee, to ask for explanations, after which we'll get back to Mrs. Scintei, because the Health Committee is currently preparing an abuse. They want to present a report, albeit they have no quorum, and we, AUR, will not ensure the quorum for the Health committee," Simion said.

"The press has been outside for the past four hours, in front of this room and they will not accept the press and do not want to accept anyone else, filming is not allowed. Do you agree that the press should film everything that occurs in the committee? These committees' meetings should unfold in public, it affects millions of people, the vote needs to be public (...). You cannot hamper rights and liberties. The right to choose, that is what the Romanians are asking," Simion also said.

In reply, the PNL (National Liberal Party) senator, Nicoleta Pauliuc, requested the leader of AUR to let the committee members to carry out their activity in peace.

The Senate's Legal Committee suspended its session on Tuesday, where there was a debate and amendments were made to the legislative proposal through which the personnel of certain public and private units is obligated to present the COVID-19 digital certificate at their workplace.

The legislative proposal regarding the establishment of certain measures in the health sector, throughout the state of alert, for the personnel with some public and private institutions could enter the Senate on Wednesday to be debated, if a report by the Legal and Health committees is tabled.
The position of the Romanian Orthodox Church (BOR) was and remains a balanced example of realism and is all in for vaccination as recommended by doctors, whose advice we must each follow, said on Tuesday the BOR spokesman, Vasile Banescu.

The reaction of the BOR spokesperson comes to the appearance in the press of the statements of the clergyman of Durau Monastery, Teodosie Paraschiv, who allegedly spoke to the faithful about the fact that there are chips in the vaccine and about a so-called World Government created by aliens.

Vasile Banescu emphasized that "the Church strongly denies these absurd messages that have nothing to do with authentic Christian realism, with the love of fellow human beings, but only with the defiance of an immediate reality imbued with suffering and death, Agerpres informs.
Bucharest City's vaccination coverage is almost 60 percent, while in Cluj County this indicator is 52.3 percent, head of Romania's vaccine rollout program, military doctor Valeriu Gheorghita told a press conference today.

"The vaccination coverage in Bucharest City is almost 60 percent, more precisely 59.4 percent. Also, Cluj County has a vaccination coverage of 52.3 percent. 11 percent of the counties have vaccination rates between 40 and 50 percent, in 65 percent of the counties the rate is between 30 and 40 percent, and in 19 percent of the counties it is between 20 and 30 percent. Suceava County ranks last with roughly 24 percent," said Gheorghita.

According to him, the national vaccination coverage of the total resident population is 33 percent - people who received at least one dose.

"The national vaccination coverage in the adult population aged 18 years and up is almost 41 percent, for the eligible resident population aged over 12, the vaccination coverage is about 39 percent, and for the total population it is 33 percent - meaning people who received at least one dose. By age ranges, the vaccination coverage is highest for the 50 - 59 age range - at 46.4 percent, followed by the 60 - 69 age group - 45.4 percent, 40 - 49 years - over 42 percent, 70 - 79 years - over 41 percent, 30 - 39 years - almost 40 percent. For the age group 80-plus it is still low, about just 22 percent. For 12-15-year-olds the coverage is near 10 percent and for 16-19-year-olds it is almost 28 percent," Gheorghita explained.

He reiterated that if the current vaccine rollout pace is maintained, a vaccination coverage of more than 70 percent of the resident population over 12 years of age could be reached by the end of this year.

"This means a total of over 11.8 million of at least one-dose recipients by the end of the year, compared to about 6.5 million now, which means that another 5.3 million people could get the jab by the end of this year, yet on one condition: that the daily average of first-dose recipients stays at approximately 80,000," said Valeriu Gheorghita.
National chairman of the National Liberal Party (PNL) Florin Citu said on Tuesday that there is no flexibility in the mandate of Prime Minister-designate Nicolae Ciuca for the formation of a government, adding that they will continue talks with both Save Romania Union (USR) and other lawmakers for a minority government that also includes the Hungarian Democratic Union of Romania (UDMR), with support in Parliament.

"There is no flexibility in the mandate; I don't know what meeting you are talking about. If there had been flexibility, it could only be done by BPN [National Standing Bureau]. There has been no BPN meeting so far, so it stays as agreed," Citu said at PNL headquarters responding to whether the mandate of the prime minister-designate got more flexible after a meeting with President Klaus Iohannis.

He also said that no meeting of the PNL leadership is scheduled, and that he will continue talks for the formation of a government.

"We are not calling any BPN today. As such, we are looking at options. We are considering and we will continue talks with both USR and the other lawmakers in the Romanian Parliament to see their terms on which they could support a minority government," he said.

Regarding the possibility of the Liberals trading ministries with PSD for their backing of the government, Citu said: "From the talks that Prime Minister-designate Nicolae Ciuca has had with the PSD national leader, Marcel Ciolacu, such a conclusion did not emerge."

"Officially, this position has not been with us, so I cannot comment. I cannot comment on anything that has not been presented, but at this moment we have a mandate only for a minority PNL - UDMR government backed by the Romanian Parliament. I am calling for responsibility once again," Citu added.

According to political sources, President Iohannis met on Monday evening with Ciuca and Citu.

On Monday, Ciuca met USR national chairman Dacian Ciolos to discuss a governing agenda. Ciuca said after the meeting that USR gave an "emphatic" answer that it does not support a minority government, but the rebuilding of the ruling coalition, mentioning that it will discuss the situation inside PNL and a decision will be then made.

After the meeting, Citu reiterated that he expects the opposition Social Democratic Party (PSD) and USR to show responsibility and vote for a minority government, pointing out that if the two parties do not support this Executive, the only option is early elections. He also showed that PNL made a concession and changed the candidate for prime minister, recommending Ciuca.

"USR has the chance to show Romanians that it is making the mandate more flexible, that it is voting for a minority government today, then we are quickly resolving this crisis and then we will see what happens, how to rebuild the coalition. We have a few months to discuss. There are many things to discuss. Rebuilding the coalition cannot happen overnight as USR would like. That is impossible," Citu added, Agerpres informs.
The NATO Allied Joint Force Command - Naples (JFC Naples) organizes in Romania, between October 26 and 28, the "Noble Blueprint 21" drill, as part of the programme of joint drills and trainings aimed at strengthening the collective defence measures of NATO members, the General Staff of the Naval Forces (SMFN) informed on Tuesday.

The SMFN said in a press release that the main objective of the "Noble Blueprint 21" exercise is to provide NATO's political and military authorities with the necessary support for the design, organization and conduct of operations in response to possible regional crises, according to Article 5 of the North Atlantic Alliance Treaty, under the command of NATO's Joint Allied Forces Command.

"Noble Blueprint 21" contributes to the strengthening of the information base of commanders of NATO's operational and tactical structures, in order to synchronize operational procedures and response capabilities, Agerpres informs.

The activities planned in Romania are attended by the leaders of some central military structures of NATO, as well as the leaders of some military structures from Romania and Bulgaria. The "Noble Blueprint 21" drill, led by the commander of NATO's Allied Joint Command in Naples, Admiral Robert P. Burke (USA), will end in Constanta, to emphasize the importance of ensuring security and stability in the Black Sea region, by strengthening the collective defence posture of NATO states, on the Eastern Flank.

"In a dynamic and volatile security environment, the North Atlantic cooperation is increasingly necessary and justified. NATO is a strong organization due to the cohesion of its members and guarantees the security of each Alliance state. With Romania and Bulgaria joining the North Alliance, NATO strengthened its presence on the Eastern Flank, while allied initiatives are strengthening NATO's rapid response capability, in support of defence, deterrence and rapid military interventions in crisis situations in the Black Sea region," mentioned SMFN.
Another 523 Romanians infected with SARS-CoV-2 are reported dead in the last 24 hours, including 12 previously unaccounted for, according to data released on Tuesday by the Strategic Communication Group (GCS), the official novel coronavirus communication task force.

According to GCS, these are 260 men and 263 women.

As many as 481 of the recorded deaths were in patients with comorbidities, 13 deaths had no comorbidities, and for 29 deaths no comorbidities have been reported so far.

Out of the 523 patients who died, 469 were unvaccinated and 54 were vaccinated.

The 54 vaccinated deceased patients ranged in age from 50 to 59 years and over 80 years; 53 of them had comorbidities, and no comorbidities were reported for one patient.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, 45,503 people diagnosed with the SARS-CoV-2 infection have died in Romania.

16,765 new cases of COVID-19; more than 78,700 tests carried out in past 24hrs

A number of 16,765 new cases of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 have been recorded in the past 24 hours, with 78,706 tests performed, the Strategic Communication Group (GCS) reported on Tuesday.

As of Tuesday, 1,587,880 cases of people infected with the novel coronavirus were confirmed in Romania, of which 7,479 are of re-infected patients, tested positive more than 180 days after the first infection, and 1,345,324 patients were declared healed.

To date, 10,197,305 RT-PCR tests and 4,249,026 rapid antigenic tests have been carried out.

In the past 24 hours, 25,350 RT-PCR tests were performed (13,268 based on the case definition and medical protocol and 12,082 upon request) and 53,356 rapid antigen tests.

Apart from the newly confirmed cases, following the retesting of patients who were already positive, 1,557 people were reconfirmed positive.

Most new COVID-19 cases in Romania reported in Bucharest (1,649), counties of Bihor, Iasi

Most of the newly confirmed COVID-19 cases in Romania since the previous reporting were recorded in Bucharest City - 1,649 and in the counties of Bihor - 632, Iasi - 599, Cluj - 576, and Timis - 512, the Strategic Communication Group (GCS), the official novel coronavirus communication task force, reported on Friday, Agerpres informs.

The fewest new cases were recorded in the counties of Satu Mare - 92, Covasna - 102, Caras-Severin - 122, and Maramures - 137.

The 14-day cumulative reporting rate in Bucharest City is 16.13 cases per 1,000 population, down from a previous 16.24.

However, Ilfov County ranks first in terms of the 14-day cumulative reporting rate, with 17.02 cases per 1,000 population.

It is followed by the counties of Prahova - 11.62, Alba - 10.34, Constanta - 10.23, Timis - 10.03, and Ialomita - 10.01.

All counties are in the red scenario (over three cases per 1,000 population).

3,294 fines applied in past 24hrs

The police and gendarmes have applied, in the past 24 hours, 3,294 sanctions for minor offences, amounting to a total of 616,467 lei, as a result of violating the provisions of Law No. 55/2020 on some measures meant to prevent and combat the effects the COVID-19 pandemic, informed the Strategic Communication Group (GCS) on Tuesday.

Also, the relevant structures of the Police opened three criminal investigations into the offence of preventing the fight against diseases.

Violations of the health protection norms can be reported to TELVERDE 0800.800.165, made operational by the Ministry of Interior, the calls being taken over by a dispatcher in an integrated system and distributed to the territorial structures for verification, GCS stated.

GCS: 1,867 patients with COVID-19 in intensive care; 43 are children

A number of 20,637 people with SARS-CoV-2 are hospitalized in health units, of whom 479 are children, the Strategic Communication Group (GCS) announced on Tuesday.

According to the quoted source, 1,867 patients are admitted to intensive care, of whom 43 are children.

In Romania, 149,377 people confirmed with the new coronavirus are in isolation at home and 19,917 are in institutional isolation.

Also, 56,797 people are in quarantine at home, and there are 95 people in institutional quarantine.

In the last 24 hours, 9,373 calls were registered to the emergency number 112 and 1,308 to the TELVERDE line (0800 800 358), open especially for informing citizens.
The Deputies adopted, on Tuesday, in plenary sitting, the legislative proposal regarding the establishment of July 19 as National Swimming Day.

There have been 219 votes cast "in favour," 29 "against" and 53 abstentions.

The legislative proposal, which was rejected by the Senate, has as object of regulation the establishment of July 19 as the National Swimming Day, Agerpres informs.

The explanatory memorandum argues that the symbolism of July 19 is a very special one for world swimming. Thus, on July 19, 1908, on the occasion of the 4th edition of the Summer Olympics in London, the International Swimming Federation was established.

The Chamber of Deputies is the decision-making body in the case of this project.
Speaking today at the National Intervention Coordination and Management Center (CNCCI) in Ciolpani, head of the Department for Emergency Situations Raed Arafat stressed that the solidarity of European states materialized in shipments of equipment, medicines and even the deployment of medical teams helps Romania to better overcome the health crisis.

The senior Health official made this statement as a shipment of more than 6,000 doses of monoclonal antibodies and 170 5L and 8L flow oxygen concentrators provided under the European Civil Protection Mechanism arrived at CNCCI from Serbia.

Arafat said that medical teams are also expected to arrive this week.

"I can only say that the solidarity we see from all sides makes us feel that our friends stand by us, as well as everyone supporting us at this time, I feel that we will better overcome the current situation. I thank our friends for their support and their cooperation which will continue and stay as strong as possible in the areas of emergencies and healthcare," Arafat said, adding that the freshly arrived monoclonal antibodies and oxygen concentrators will be distributed to COVID-19 hospitals right this night.
This is the message of His Grace Bishop Gurie: believe in the Resurrection of the Saviour Jesus Christ! () It is the message he has sent you over the last 12 years. The Saviour rose after suffering for us and rose for our salvation, and we will all rise beyond in the Kingdom of Heaven, Metropolitan Laurentiu of Transylvania said on Saturday at Bishop Guries funeral. The first Bishop of Deva and Hunedoara Gurie Georgiu was laid to rest at St. Nicholas Cathedral in Deva.

Hierarchs, clerics, believers and state representatives attended the funeral on October 23.

The Metropolitan of Transylvania urged everyone to remember the one who pastored the Diocese of Deva for 12 years in their prayers.

Let us honour him, following the example of his life, the perseverance of his life and especially his sincere and pure smile, the metropolitan said.

His Eminence Metropolitan Laurentiu highlighted Bishop Guries diligence and generosity.

He did not have time to rest, nor did he stop this mission. And I remember one thing we heard at the Holy Synod, of the 70,000 catechism books, the teaching of faith for the faithful, which were handed out to families. He was both humble and dignified, a worthy servant of the altar.

At the end of the funeral service, His Eminence Metropolitan Teofan of Moldavia and Bukovina read out the message of condolences of His Beatitude Patriarch Daniel.

In his speech, Metropolitan Ioan of Banat noted that Bishop Gurie passed into eternity because he did his duty, he fulfilled all that God gave him to do () and called him to Him.

State Secretary for Religious Affairs Victor Opaschi lamented the untimely departure of the first bishop of the Diocese of Deva and Hunedoara.

He was a kind man towards his clergy and faithful, and as far as I know, he did not wrong anyone, at least consciously, by entrusting his generous heart to all. His Grace Bishop Gurie remains in my memory as a worthy, gentle, modest and discreet hierarch, embodying the image of the bishop devoted to the service of his neighbour and his community. I bow before his coffin, confident that the gentleness and kindness of His Grace will always remain in our memory, Victor Opaschi said.

Before the burial ceremony, the coffin was carried by priests in a procession around the Diocesan Cathedral of Saint Nicholas in Deva.

He was buried in the cathedrals narthex, so that all who will enter this cathedral will remember and pray for the rest of the one who was the first Bishop of Deva and Hunedoara, enthroned almost 12 years ago in this great church.

The earth used to cover the tomb was brought from the monasteries of Lainici and Prislop as a sign of the eternal spiritual connection of the late hierarch with the two significant monastic settlements.
President Klaus Iohannis signed on Tuesday the decree on the release on request of Leonard Orban from the position of presidential adviser, on November 1, in view of retirement, the Presidential Administration informed.

According to the Presidential Administration, as a sign of "high appreciation for the exceptional professional career, for the contribution to the support of the European project of Romania and for the involvement in the modernization and efficiency of the Presidential Administration," President Klaus Iohannis decided to confer the National Order "Star of Romania" in Knight rank to Leonard Orban.

Leonard Orban has been a presidential adviser since January 2015, Agerpres informs.
President Klaus Iohannis will pay a state visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt on Wednesday, at the invitation of his counterpart, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the Presidential Administration informed.

According to the quoted source, the visit takes place within the very good bilateral dialogue of recent years, as well as in the context of the anniversary in 2021 of 115 years of diplomatic relations between Romania and the Arab Republic of Egypt.

"During the official consultations, the President of Romania and the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt will evaluate the concrete possibilities to dynamize and deepen the political-diplomatic dialogue and cooperation at all levels, expand and diversify the Romanian-Egyptian cooperation at economic level, including by stimulating trade and investments, as well as in new sectoral areas of interest for the two states," shows the Presidential Administration.Discussions will also include current issues of international policy, with a focus on political and security developments in the Middle East region and mediation efforts on issues of interest.During his state visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt, President Klaus Iohannis will also have meetings with the President of the House of Representatives of the Egyptian Parliament, Hanafy Ali El-Gebaly, and the President of the Senate of the Egyptian Parliament, Abdel-Wahab Abdel-Razeq.
The Senate's joint Law and Health Committees approved by a majority of votes the report upholding the amended legislative proposal that makes the COVID-19 digital certificate mandatory for the personnel of certain public and private entities.

According to the version proposed by the initiators, PNL and UDMR lawmakers, the draft act states that the certificate is proof of the fulfillment of one of the following requirements: the completion of a full SARS-CoV-2 vaccination scheme more than 10 days before; recovery from the disease and being between the 15th and the 180th day after the confirmation of the infection with this virus; a negative result of an RT-PCR test (taken no more than 72 hours before) or of a rapid antigen test (taken no more than 48 hours before).

According to the draft regulation, the personnel of the public and private health facilities subordinated or coordinated by the Health Ministry, of the health insurance offices, the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations, the Interior Ministry's General Aviation Inspectorate, as well as of the medical analysis laboratories are required to present an EU digital COVID-19 certificate.

Through an amendment, the staff of the prophylactic and curative health care units and the individuals working as providers of medical services, medical devices and medicines were added to those required to present such a certificate at the workplace.

"The provisions (...) shall also apply to authorities, public institutions and entities of public interest, public utility and all the other public, central and local units, autonomous utilities, companies working in private office buildings with more than 50 persons at a time. In the category of public and private entities, the members of the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, persons holding public office or public dignity, as well as all categories of personnel within the respective entities are required to present the EU COVID-19 digital certificate," read the amendments adopted by the two committees.

Chairperson of the Law Committee, Iulia Scantei, mentioned that the visitors of these institutions must comply with the same rules.

AUR Senator Sorin Mateescu argues that this legislative proposal restricts the right to work and wants the cost of the tests to be covered from the state budget.

In an online intervention, Chairman of the Health Committee, doctor Adrian Streinu-Cercel, expressed his dissatisfaction that the law does not also regulate people who have gone through the disease but had no symptoms.
The chairman of Romania's National COVID-19 Vaccination Coordination Committee (CNCAV) military doctor Valeriu Gheorghita declared on Tuesday that the European Medicines Agency recommended using the booster dose for people who received the full scheme of the Moderna vaccine after a minimum of 6-8 months since the second dose, being halved from the one used in the initial scheme.

He said that this week it will be decided on how the immunization will be handled with the booster dose for people who got vaccinated with the serum from the Johnson & Johnson company.

Dr. Gheorghita reminded that on Monday there was a meeting that took place online, where the acting Minister of Health, Cseke Attila, took part, as well as the secretary of state Andrei Baciu and representatives of the Association of Romanian Municipalities (AMR), where the current situation of the vaccination campaign was evaluated, "especially in the rural area", and what the solutions would be for intensifying the vaccination campaign in the villages, Agerpres informs.
4. Friends and family can contribute to an ABLE account. This may not seem like a big deal unless youve had to be careful about money in a loved ones name, whether they have or will need certain public benefits.

"When [my son] graduated [from high school] this June, I was able to tell folks, Just put [gift money] in his ABLE account, says Cheryl Walfall-Flagg, executive assistant at a nonprofit in North Carolina and an ABLE NRC ambassador. She and her husband live with and provide for their two sons and a nephew, including their 20-year-old son, Sean, who is on the autism spectrum.

How to open an ABLE account

One of the best places to start is the ABLE National Resource Centers website. See if your state has an active program  most do  and look at what the program offers.

"Some states offer tax credits for funding 529A  or ABLE  accounts if youre a resident in that state, says Cynthia Haddad, certified financial planner, chartered special needs consultant and managing partner at the Affinia Financial Group based in Massachusetts.
Want to be sure youre spending the bulk of your days in a healthy environment too? Zhao and Allen say these are the home improvements to start with.

Start Tapping Into the Equity of Your Home to Pay for Major Expenses Home Equity Loans allow you to borrow against your home's value minus the amount of any outstanding mortgages on the property.

5 ways to invest in your health at home

Swap your basic air filters for MERV 13 ones

According to Zhao, who heads up Delos indoor health research arm, focusing on your homes air quality should be priority No. 1.

Better air quality is the most important feature, says Zhao. Poor air quality contributes to more disease burden than any other environmental risk factor.
NEW YORK  Labor shortages may be the most intractable of the cost risks that U.S. companies faced in the latest quarter, and as the earnings season moves into its peak there are signs the problem will persist, some strategists say.

Finding and paying for workers is a challenge investors are paying close attention to as third-quarter results come in, with supply bottlenecks and high energy and other commodity prices among other key risks for companies.

Warnings have come already from companies in several industries, including health care, with hospital operator HCA Healthcare Inc. saying higher labor costs seen in the third quarter could stick around longer because of a shortage of workers.

Dominos Pizza cited a shortage of drivers as it reported recently a rare fall in U.S. sales, and FedEx Corp. also cited higher labor costs in September when it cut its full-year forecast.

The coming weeks, which bring results from the bulk of S&P 500 companies, should give investors more clues on how long labor pressures could persist.
Still, the need for boosters has been illustrated by data showing an increase in the share of post-vaccination infections and deaths since May, officials say. The vast majority of them have been linked to underlying conditions and comorbidities.

More than half of the states COVID-19 deaths over the past month were linked to hypertension and diabetes. Cancer, obesity, and chronic lung disease are other leading comorbidities among COVID-19 deaths in Maryland.

We have plenty of supply with vaccines on hand throughout the state," Schrader said, noting that Maryland now has more than 1.8 million doses.

Hogan, a Republican, also said the state has been preparing to begin vaccinating children between the ages of 5-11 as soon as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention approves it, which could be as soon as next week.

About 515,000 Maryland children will be eligible. The state already has ordered an initial 180,000 Pfizer doses to begin vaccinating children. State health officials have been working in partnership with pediatricians, pharmacies, school systems and local health departments.
Tony Messenger Tony Messenger is the metro columnist for the St. Louis Post-Dispatch. Follow Tony Messenger 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

MARSHALL  Before he sent her to prison for smoking a marijuana joint while on probation, Saline County Circuit Judge Dennis Rolf had a question for Blair Clevenger.

When are you due? Rolf asked on Monday morning.

Wearing a pink jail smock and appearing by video from the county jail, the 29-year-old woman gave her answer.

March 25.

Rolf paused. He had a quizzical look on his face. Maybe he was doing the math in his head. You might be out by then.

Probably not. Clevenger was sent to the state Department of Corrections by Rolf for three years, her original sentence for drug possession that she pleaded guilty to in 2019. That she was in the county jail at all, and is now headed to state prison, is a lesson in the broken American criminal justice system, where too many of the wrong people are in jail or prison, often because they battle drug addiction or poverty, or both. They feed the countrys incarceration rates, which are the worst in the free world.
Edwardsville police Chief Michael Fillback said some of his officers and other officers throughout the Metro East are filling in on patrol for Pontoon Beach officers now because their officers were so shaken by the shooting.

Timmins joined Pontoon Beach police in April 2020, said Illinois State Police Master Sgt. Elbert Jennings. He was a police officer in Madison County for 14 years and previously served as a police officer in Roxana, Worden and Hartford.

Worden police Chief Joe D. Berry said Timmins began as an officer in that village in 2015, then was promoted to police chief in September 2016. Timmins served as chief in Worden, a village of nearly 1,000 residents, for about 11 months, Berry said.

Berry came to St. Louis on Tuesday to be part of the police escort to the morgue.

Its been a gloomy day, Berry said. But I considered it an honor. You do the best you can to bring him where he has to be.

As is tradition in some departments, Berry said a team of police officers will stand guard round-the-clock over Timmins until his body is returned to Illinois for the funeral.
Just last week, on Oct. 19, Weil was among those who toured the building. Others on the tour included a representative of the corporation that owns the property. Weil said the preservation group wanted access to look around and see what the current condition was and hear about the redevelopment plan from Butlers group.

It was all very exciting. Everyone was just hoping something productive would come of the property after many years of (it) languishing, he said.

Weil called it a whipsaw situation to go from being enthusiastic last week during the tour of the church to hearing Tuesday morning about the fire engulfing the bell tower.

During his tour, Weil saw that the building was structurally sound but substantially vandalized. He said a security fence had been cut through at the rear of the building, and razor wire that was supposed to encircle the top of the fence was on the ground.

Butler could not be reached Tuesday, but Lawrence Groups Steve Smith said it was too early to comment on how the fire affected plans.
The state law sets limits on any health order that directly or indirectly closes, partially closes, or places restrictions on the opening of or access to any one or more business organizations, churches, schools, or other places of public or private gathering or assembly.

And Schmitt said the mask order is not adequate to prevent the spread of COVID-19 because it fails to consider studies purporting to show that masks are ineffective at limiting infection. The 26-page filing similarly criticizes health orders issued in St. Louis County as far back as November 2020.

The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services, and local doctors have recommended masks as an effective means of reducing the risk of infection and sickness from COVID-19.

Schmitt asked Ribaudo to void the Sept. 27 mask order or issue an injunction barring the county from enforcing the measure.

Asked for a response, Page spokesman Doug Moore said in a statement: Mr. Schmitt continues to betray Missouri residents by trying to erode public safety measures put in place to protect everyone, including our children too young to get vaccinated.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden is spinning a convoluted tale of an Amtrak conductor who congratulated him during his vice presidency for logging more miles riding the train home to Delaware than by flying on Air Force Two.

I apologize because some have heard this, Biden told a crowd Monday in New Jersey, starting up a story he has repeated in various forms at least five times, dating back to the 2020 campaign.

I swear to God. True story, he said Monday, for emphasis.

But it's a mangled one.

By his own accounting, Biden's Amtrak miles over the years only surpassed his Air Force Two miles after the conductor who supposedly informed him of that fact had died. Moreover, the conductor had retired about two decades before the conversation Biden claims to have had with him while boarding a train.

BIDEN: I commuted every single day, 263 miles a day, on Amtrak from the time I got elected United States senator. As a matter of fact, when I was vice president, I used to like to take the train home when my mom was very sick and dying, and Id come home every weekend to make sure Id take the train home. ...
Here's the heart of it: Americans read over the last few months that billionaires were paying little or no taxes for years on end, Wyden said at the Capitol.

The billionaires tax is being modeled on a 2019 bill from Wyden to treat assets as income. Another idea, up to a 3% ultra-rich surtax, has been proposed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass.

Under Wydens emerging plan, the billionaires tax would hit the wealthiest of Americans, fewer than 1,000 people. It would require those with assets of more than $1 billion, or three-years consecutive income of $100 million, to pay taxes on the gains of stocks and other tradeable assets, rather than waiting until holdings are sold.

A similar billionaires tax would be applied to non-tradeable assets, including real estate, but it would be deferred with the tax not assessed until the asset was sold.

Overall, the billionaires tax rate has not been set, but it is expected to be at least the 20% capital gains rate. Democrats have said it could raise $200 billion in revenue that could help fund Biden's package over 10 years.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell called it a hare-brained scheme and warned of revenue drying up during downturns. Some Republicans indicated such a tax plan could be challenged in court.
To study ways to reduce vaccine misinformation, Facebook researchers changed how posts are ranked for more than 6,000 users in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil and the Philippines. Instead of seeing posts about vaccines that were chosen based on their engagement, these users saw posts selected for their trustworthiness.

The results were striking: a nearly 12% decrease in content that made claims debunked by fact-checkers and an 8% increase in content from authoritative public health organizations such as the WHO or U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

Employees at the company reacted with exuberance, according to internal exchanges.

Is there any reason we wouldnt do this? one Facebook employee wrote in response.

Facebook said it did implement many of the study's findings  but not for another month, a delay that came at a pivotal stage of the global vaccine rollout.

In a statement, company spokeswoman Dani Lever said the internal documents dont represent the considerable progress we have made since that time in promoting reliable information about COVID-19 and expanding our policies to remove more harmful COVID and vaccine misinformation.

The company also said it took time to consider and implement the changes.
Holcomb said in a statement that the report, which also reviewed the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy, state excise police and other state-run police agencies, was part of a commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment.

I will continue to do my part to assure the citizens of Indiana that law enforcement officers are operating according to the highest standards, Holcomb said.

Some of the reports recommended changes have rolled out throughout the consulting firms yearlong review process, including the distribution of body cameras to front-line state troopers.

The Indiana Black Legislative Caucus argued Holcomb wasnt going far enough with police reforms last year, but state Rep. Robin Shackleford, the groups chairwoman, said she looked forward to implementation of the reports recommendations.
The deal likely is worth around $4 billion because each Model 3 has a base price of about $40,000. It also ranks at the top of the list of electric vehicle orders by a single company. In 2019, Amazon ordered 100,000 electric delivery vans from Rivian, a startup manufacturer of electric van, pickup trucks and SUVs. Amazon is an investor in Rivian.

The Hertz order sent Tesla shares soaring nearly 13% to a record closing price of $1,024.86, and pushed the world's most valuable automaker's total market value to just over $1 trillion. The wealth of CEO Elon Musk, the richest person in the world, grew 11.4% to $255.8 billion, according to Forbes.

In his interview with the AP, Fields made clear his belief that electric vehicles are increasingly moving into the mainstream and that Hertz intends to be a leading provider of EVs to rental customers. He pointed to surveys showing that over the past five years, consumer interest in electric vehicles has grown dramatically.

More are willing to try and buy, he said. It's pretty stunning.

Fields said that Hertz, which is based in Estero, Florida, is in discussions with other automakers, too, about buying additional electric vehicles as it expands its EV fleet as more models enter the marketplace.
Whether Trumps wall is the solution to Americas complex immigration issues is highly debatable, but its not a debate that logically should involve the Missouri Attorney Generals office. Yet there was Schmitt, all over Twitter, standing on the banks of the Rio Grande to announce the suit being jointly filed by his office and the Texas Attorney Generals office.

The state-paid press secretary for Schmitts office, Chris Nuelle, initially told the Post-Dispatch the trip was fully state-funded. He later specified that the state paid for my trip, the campaign paid for Erics trip.

Schmitt cant have it both ways. If the Texas trip wasnt the campaign stunt it clearly looked like, why use campaign funds for part of it? And if it is a campaign event, how can he justify bringing a state employee at state expense  an employee who was quoted, in his official capacity, saying that Missouris role in the suit is valid because it highlights Joe Bidens failure to secure the border?

That sounds like a campaign spokesman talking, not a state-government spokesman who in theory works for all Missourians, including Biden supporters.
Stewart said he initially pushed Devouton's hand off him, then tried to ward off the blows from other officers, while screaming for them to stop. But he said he did not initiate any contact or strike the officers.

Jones and a neighbor witnessed the attack. When Jones went toward the car to retrieve her infant son, Officer Cliff House pointed a gun at her and told her to stop, the lawsuit says.

Officers twice searched the couple's apartment, at one point threatening to arrest Jones for a traffic warrant and to have her children placed in protective custody if she did not sign forms consenting to the searches. They also seized a weapon that Jones legally owned.

Stewart suffered a fractured nose and a black eye and emotional pain and fear, and the illegal searches also caused Stewart and Jones concern for the safety of themselves and their children, the lawsuit said. It seeks compensatory and punitive damages but does not name a specific amount.

Stewart said in a statement released by ArchCity Defenders public interest law firm, which is representing him, that he wants police accountability. Jones is being represented by Kenneth Powell, of the Powell Law Firm.
The Brookings Institution describes personal responsibility as the willingness to both accept the importance of standards that society establishes for individual behavior and to make strenuous personal efforts to live by those standards. To take personal responsibility means that we do not look to blame others if we fail to meet those standards, and it also means that we do not look to the larger society or the government to answer those standards. We must look to ourselves first.

Not only did the dads step up and take responsibility for their community, they are also providing an example of personal responsibility for the very children they are trying to help. This example of fatherhood is very much needed. Because not everybody has a father figure at home  or a male, period, in their life. So just to be here makes a big difference, one dad told CBS.

Since the dads have been a presence at the high school, there have been no further incidents of student violence. The Southwood High School students responded as well. One student said, I immediately felt a form of safety. We stopped fighting; people started going to class. Another student said The school has just been happy  and you can feel it.
By the end of the line there are only tourists and pilgrims on the bus. Together, in silence, we walk into the concentration camp.

Dachau, founded in 1933, was the first concentration camp  a model camp and a training ground for wannabe camp commandants who studied such subjects as crowd control and torture. The camp at Dachau was built to hold 5,000, but on Liberation Day 30,000 were found packed inside its walls. Some 3,000 were so sick that they died after liberation. The number of Dachau deaths is estimated at 40,000, but the total will never be known. Thousands of Russian soldiers were brought here as prisoners. Not even registered, they were simply taken into the field and shot.

I shuffle into the camps memorial theater. Its filled with 300 people, mostly tourists who are pilgrims for the morning. They sit in silence, looking at black-and-white film clips of tangled bodies and ghostly faces of the dead. As the camera pans silently across the corpses, gasps emanate from the audience. A frothing Hitler stands high, his hand waving furiously at the adoring masses. Even on the scratchy newsreel clips, he seems strangely charismatic, not dead but only hiding.
Shares is the leading weekly publication for retail investors. It is packed with investment ideas, news and educational material to help build and run portfolios and get more from your money.

Shares puts on free Investor Events throughout the year across the country. They provide an opportunity for investors to learn more about companies on the stock market and hear from a range of investment experts including fund managers and Shares journalists.
* Oasis launches campaign focused on improving operations and governance at paper manufacturer Hokuetsu

* Oasis urges Hokuetsu to invest in biomass power plant business and reduce cross-shareholdings

More information available at www.ABetterHokuetsu.com

TOKYO & HONG KONG--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Oasis Management Company Ltd. (Oasis) is the manager to funds that beneficially own over 7.3% of paper manufacturer Hokuetsu Corporation (3865 JT) (Hokuetsu or the Company). Oasis has adopted the Japan FSAs Principles of Responsible Ownership (a/k/a the Japan Stewardship Code) and in line with those principles, Oasis monitors and engages with its investee companies.

Today, Oasis announces its A Better Hokuetsu campaign in an effort to transform Hokuetsu to meet the challenges of a paperless future and enhance Hokuetsus corporate value over the long-term to the benefit of all stakeholders.

Hokuetsus Challenges

Oasis is a long-term shareholder of Hokuetsu and has been engaging closely with the Company on operational and governance improvements. As the digital world evolves, Hokuetsus core paper pulp business has declined along with the rest of the paper industry -- a decline that has accelerated in the era of Covid-19.

Hokuetsus CEO, Mr. Kishimoto, has led the Company for 13 years. He has been reluctant to accept this reality and adapt the business model to survive. During his tenure, the average Hokuetsu employees salary has declined by -13%. Recently, the Company has expanded into the growth areas of sanitary tissues and containerboards; however, this step was too little, too late.

Hokuetsu also has substantial cross-shareholdings representing nearly 75% of the Companys market value, in direct contradiction to guidance in Japans Corporate Governance Code to reduce such holdings. It is clear that Hokuetsu stakeholders, including Hokuetsu employees, have suffered under Mr. Kishimotos leadership. Now is the time for change.

A Better Hokuetsu

We urge Hokuetsu to:

Resolve its cross-shareholdings with Daio Paper; and

Invest in the biomass power plant business.

Hokuetsus biomass plant business, started in 2006, represents a massive opportunity. Renewable energy, including biomass energy, will only become more important in the future as more companies and investors focus on sustainability. With shrinking demand for printing paper, pivoting to focus on biomass power plants as the core business and investing with the proceeds from the sale of cross-shareholdings would generate substantial corporate value for Hokuetsu into the future. We view this as the best way for the Company to survive and succeed. If the company executes on this plan, we believe Hokuetsus market value could quadruple to JPY534 billion.

Seth Fischer, Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Oasis, said:

Hokuetsu is massively undervalued and has a generational opportunity in the biomass power plant business. After 13 years of underperformance, Hokuetsus stakeholders and employees deserve leadership that is dedicated to bold action and change.

Full details of Oasiss proposals are available at www.abetterhokuetsu.com. We urge Hokuetsu to swiftly execute on these proposals. This is an important mission in which all stakeholders should be engaged. We all want the same thing: a better Hokuetsu.

We welcome all stakeholders to contact Oasis at info@abetterhokuetsu.com to help build A Better Hokuetsu.

***

Oasis Management Company Ltd. manages private investment funds focused on opportunities in a wide array of asset classes across countries and sectors. Oasis was founded in 2002 by Seth H. Fischer, who leads the firm as its Chief Investment Officer. More information about Oasis is available at https://oasiscm.com. Oasis has adopted the Japan FSAs Principles of Responsible Institutional Investors (a/k/a Japan Stewardship Code) and in line with those principles, Oasis monitors and engages with our investee companies.

The information contained in this press release (referred to as the "Document") is an information resource for shareholders in Hokuetsu offered by Oasis, the investment manager to funds that are shareholders of Hokuetsu (the "Oasis Funds"). The Document is not intended to solicit or seek shareholders' agreements to jointly exercise any voting rights with Oasis. Shareholders that have an agreement to jointly exercise their voting rights are regarded as Joint Holders under the Japanese large shareholding disclosure rules and they must file notification of their aggregate share ownership with the relevant Japanese authority for public disclosure under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act. Oasis does not intend to be subjected to such notification requirement. The Document exclusively represents the opinions, interpretations, and estimates of Oasis.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005413/en/

Media

For all inquiries:

Taylor Hall

media@oasiscm.com

Source: Oasis Management Company Ltd.
FILE PHOTO: Lockheed Martin's logo is seen during Japan Aerospace 2016 air show in Tokyo, Japan, October 12, 2016. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon

By Mike Stone

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Lockheed Martin Corp dramatically lowered its sales expectations for this year and next on Tuesday as the COVID-19 pandemic severely hobbled the top U.S. defense contractor's supply chain, sending its shares down 12%.

The pandemic has crippled many companies' ability to send and receive the parts and supplies they need to produce a wide range of products, creating shortages, reducing inventories and hammering profits.

Lockheed's chief financial officer said the problem worsened for them over the last two months, as the maker of the F-35 fighter jet lowered its 2021 revenue expectations by 2.5% to $67 billion and said next year's revenue could fall to $66 billion.

Lockheed's poor outlook, just 66 days from year-end, came after it reassessed its five-year business plan "given recent external and programmatic events," Chief Executive Jim Taiclet said in the earnings report that dashed hopes the United States' largest arms maker could muscle its way through the pandemic.

Shares of defense stocks fell after the report, with the Dow Jones U.S. Defense index down nearly 6% at midday.

The defense company's CFO said on a call with analysts that its suppliers "are still dealing with the financial stress caused by the global pandemic."

A company executive noted suppliers that serve the commercial market as well as the defense market were struggling the most. The combination of fixed costs and falling revenue - the aviation industry in particular has struggled during COVID-19 with the huge drop in travel - hurt the suppliers that serve both markets.

"Management laid out a meaningfully lower growth profile than previously indicated, and growth is a key metric in defense right now," Seth Seifman, a JP Morgan analyst said in a research note, adding, "the potential silver lining the market may ultimately begin looking for here is that today's hit to the outlook is drastic enough to set up potential beats going forward."

On the call with analysts, Taiclet said the company's sales would go up again in 2023 and increase steadily through 2026.

He also said Lockheed now sees its planned purchase of rocket maker Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings Inc closing in the first quarter of 2022, a bit later than previously expected.

Support for the defense industry could be on the way as congressional committees are set to start their conference on the Biden administration's 2022 defense policy bill that outlines increased spending.

Lockheed raised its earnings-per-share guidance for 2021 to $22.45, more than analyst estimates of $22.19, as operating profits rose 6.6% versus the same period last year.

The third quarter which ended on Sept. 26 showed sales at Lockheed's largest unit, aeronautics - which makes the F-35 fighter jet - down 2% from a year earlier, when the pandemic locked down many parts of the defense industry's supply chain.

Through Sept. 26, the unit made 90 F-35 deliveries, with 36 occurring in the third quarter. Lockheed aims to deliver 133 to 139 of the stealthy jets this year.

In 2022, Lockheed plans to deliver 151 to 153 of the fighter aircraft.

Lockheed's third-quarter revenue was $16 billion, 6.6% below analyst revenue estimate of $17.1 billion, Refinitiv data showed.

(Reporting by Mike Stone in Washington; Editing by Himani Sarkar, Kirsten Donovan, Mark Porter and Marguerita Choy)






















Vallourec signs agreement for the supply of line pipes in Guyana

Boulogne-Billancourt (France), October 26, 2021  Vallourec today announces that it has signed a 10-year frame agreement with Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL)  an affiliate of ExxonMobil, one of the largest international energy companies, to supply line pipe products in Guyana.

The agreement enables long-term line pipe supply by defining contractual and commercial terms to support EEPGLs future oil & gas developments in this strategic basin. EEPGL operates the Stabroek Block (26,800 square kilometers), where approximately 10 billion oil equivalent barrels have been discovered since 2015.

Vallourec is positioning itself as strategic supplier of seamless tubes for future projects in Guyana to build subsea flowlines and risers. Vallourec line pipe is manufactured to the tightest tolerance required for deep-water pipeline installations.

Vallourec is offering a wide variety of steel grades to address the needs of the most demanding offshore projects, including the X80 grade - for use in corrosive deep-water environments. This innovative steel, developed by Vallourec experts, offers excellent mechanical properties while ensuring good weldability and corrosion resistance.

Edouard Guinotte, Chief Executive Officer of Vallourec, says: "I am pleased that we have been awarded this important line pipe contract with ExxonMobil, our long-standing partner and customer. Guyana, like Brazil, is one of our sector's flagship regions and, thanks to the decisions we have made and the competitiveness of our industrial routes, we are able to serve the region's most important projects."

"I would like to thank ExxonMobil for their trust and congratulate the entire Vallourec project team which has been able to present a tailor-made offer that incorporates the best of our Research & Development and is thus ideally placed to provide optimum support for all future projects, without ever losing sight of excellence in execution," Guinotte concludes.

Vallourec will serve its customer from its Brazilian base, comprising two competitive high-performance factories located in Jeceaba and Barreiro (Minas Gerais), benefiting from large production capacities enabling it to supply the important volumes required by EEPGL for future projects in Guyana.

About Vallourec

Vallourec is a world leader in premium tubular solutions for the energy markets and for demanding industrial applications such as oil & gas wells in harsh environments, new generation power plants, challenging architectural projects, and high-performance mechanical equipment. Vallourecs pioneering spirit and cutting-edge R&D open new technological frontiers. With close to 17,000 dedicated and passionate employees in more than 20 countries, Vallourec works hand-in-hand with its customers to offer more than just tubes: Vallourec delivers innovative, safe, competitive and smart tubular solutions, to make every project possible.

Listed on Euronext in Paris (ISIN code: FR0013506730, Ticker VK), Vallourec is part of the SBF 120 index and is eligible for Deferred Settlement Service Long Only.

In the United States, Vallourec has established a sponsored Level 1 American Depositary Receipt (ADR) program (ISIN code: US92023R4074, Ticker: VLOWY). Parity between ADR and a Vallourec ordinary share has been set at 5:1.

For further information, please contact:

Investor relations

Jerome Friboulet

Tel: +33 (0)1 49 09 39 77

Investor.relations@vallourec.com



Press relations

Heloise Rothenbuhler

Tel: +33 (0)6 45 45 19 67

heloise.rothenbuhler@vallourec.com Individual shareholders

Toll Free Number (from France): 0 805 65 10 10

actionnaires@vallourec.com





vallourec.com

Follow us on Twitter @Vallourec

Attachment
NEW YORK, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Department of Community Education & Outreach at Hospital for Special Surgery (HSS) has received the Betty J. Cleckley Minority Issues Research Award at the American Public Health Association (APHA) annual meeting.

The award recognizes individuals in aging and public health research who have made a significant impact on the lives of older people who are members of minority groups, according to the APHA. The organization notes that minimizing health disparities and improving access to health and long-term care services are important issues for minority populations in the United States.

HSS is the award recipient for its manuscript titled, "Utilizing Alternative Strategies to Keep Underserved and Vulnerable Communities Socially Connected." Bonnie McGrath, first author and program assistant, Regional Markets Education & Outreach at HSS, accepted the award virtually at the APHA Aging and Public Health Section Awards Ceremony on October 25.

"When the pandemic started, it was essential for us to continue to provide services to our underserved and vulnerable populations, including older adults," explained McGrath. "Working closely with our community partners, the HSS team assessed the community's needs and identified strategies to implement programs that individuals could access from home. It is truly an honor to have our work recognized by the APHA."

HSS successfully transitioned many in-person programs to telephone conference calls or video conferences with Zoom. New programs, on-demand videos and offerings in a safe outdoor space with social distancing were added as time went on. Focus groups, phone interviews and surveys were used to assess program effectiveness, McGrath explained. Data collection indicated that the offerings enabled participants to feel calmer and more relaxed; they valued the opportunity to connect with others; and they gained skills to cope with stress and anxiety.

"Our ability to adapt and be innovative has allowed us to implement new program formats to reach the diverse communities we serve, offering support, an opportunity for physical activity and social connections," said Sandra Goldsmith, assistant vice president, HSS Education Institute. "The communities we serve were open to these changes, and it is gratifying to have the opportunity to play a continued role in supporting their health."

About HSS

HSS is the world's leading academic medical center focused on musculoskeletal health. At its core is Hospital for Special Surgery, nationally ranked No. 1 in orthopedics (for the 12th consecutive year), No. 4 in rheumatology by U.S. News & World Report (2021-2022), and the best pediatric orthopedic hospital in NY, NJ and CT by U.S. News & World Report "Best Children's Hospitals" list (2021-2022). HSS is ranked world #1 in orthopedics by Newsweek (2021-2022). Founded in 1863, the Hospital has the lowest complication and readmission rates in the nation for orthopedics, and among the lowest infection rates. HSS was the first in New York State to receive Magnet Recognition for Excellence in Nursing Service from the American Nurses Credentialing Center five consecutive times. The global standard total knee replacement was developed at HSS in 1969. An affiliate of Weill Cornell Medical College, HSS has a main campus in New York City and facilities in New Jersey, Connecticut and in the Long Island and Westchester County regions of New York State, as well as in Florida. In addition to patient care, HSS leads the field in research, innovation and education. The HSS Research Institute comprises 20 laboratories and 300 staff members focused on leading the advancement of musculoskeletal health through prevention of degeneration, tissue repair and tissue regeneration. The HSS Global Innovation Institute was formed in 2016 to realize the potential of new drugs, therapeutics and devices. The HSS Education Institute is a trusted leader in advancing musculoskeletal knowledge and research for physicians, nurses, allied health professionals, academic trainees, and consumers in more than 130 countries. The institution is collaborating with medical centers and other organizations to advance the quality and value of musculoskeletal care and to make world-class HSS care more widely accessible nationally and internationally. www.hss.edu.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hss-receives-betty-j-cleckley-minority-issues-research-award-from-american-public-health-association-301407889.html

SOURCE Hospital for Special Surgery
KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Board of Directors of Kansas City Life Insurance Company declared a quarterly dividend of $0.27 per share on October 25, 2021. The dividend will be payable on November 10, 2021, to stockholders of record on November 4, 2021.

Kansas City Life Insurance Company (OTCQX: KCLI) was established in 1895 and is based in Kansas City, Missouri. The Company's primary business is providing financial protection through the sale of life insurance and annuities. The Company operates in 49 states and the District of Columbia. For more information, please visit www.kclife.com.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kansas-city-life-declares-quarterly-dividend-301408029.html

SOURCE OTC Markets Group Inc.
Q3'21 revenue of KRW 450.7 billion increased 64% compared to Q3'20.

Q3'21 operating profit of KRW 167.4 billion increased 196% compared to Q3'20.

Stable supply, strong operational excellence and a high utilization rate across all plants.

Active investment on expansion, pre-sales activities of Plant 4 and ESG efforts to deliver the company's future growth plans.

INCHEON, South Korea, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Samsung Biologics (KRX: 207940.KS), a leading contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), today announced record-high financial results for the third quarter of fiscal 2021.

John Rim, CEO of Samsung Biologics, stated, "We are pleased to continue with a strong momentum in our third-quarter financial performance posting the highest quarterly results thanks to the stability, quality, and efficiency of our business units in delivering pharmaceutical products to our valued clients, while maintaining a safe environment for our workforce amid the prolonged pandemic. Looking forward, we remain focused and positive on fulfilling our responsibility as a leading company in the global CDMO market. We continue to be excited with the progress we are making on our pipeline expansion in terms of the breadth of service offerings and the introduction of new technologies."

THIRD QUARTER 2021 RESULTS

Third quarter 2021 revenue was KRW 450.7 billion, an increase of 64% from KRW 274.6 billion reported for the third quarter in the previous year, attributable to near-full operations at all three of its plants.

Third quarter 2021 operating profit was KRW 167.4 billion, 196% higher than the prior-year period leveraging strong top-line growth.

Third quarter 2021 net profit reached KRW 131.8 billion, an increase of KRW 75.7 billion from KRW 56.1 billion in the third quarter a year ago, and third quarter 2021 operating margin was at a record-high 37% due to increased utilization across all plants and product mix, including fast-turnaround COVID-19 treatments.

[KRW billion]

Q3'21 Q3'20 YoY Change Revenues 450.7 274.6 +64.1% Operating Profit 167.4 56.5 +196.3% EBIT 197.3 73.7 +167.7% Net Income 131.8 56.1 +134.9%

FISCAL YEAR 2021 OUTLOOK

The annual revenue is expected to remain steady with stable operations across all production facilities, and active pre-sales activities are ongoing for Plant 4 despite the challenging business environment amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to recording a strong cumulative backlog of USD 7.1 billion in signed contracts with pharmaceutical companies such as Roche and MSD, Samsung Biologics launched S-CellerateTM, its new drug development service platform which offers an expedited process for the development and commercialization of monoclonal antibodies to IND and BLA. Along with its proprietary cell line development platform S-CHOiceTM, the company's CDO business continues to bring quality-driven, end-to-end development services to accelerate the speed of molecules to market.

Furthering its sustainability efforts, Samsung Biologics joined the global Frontier -1.5D initiative to develop a climate risk management model as part of the 2050 Carbon Neutral Strategy in response to the ongoing challenges associated with global climate change. Through its Carbon Disclosure Project, the company will determine the risks and opportunities within its business to address climate change, and then analyze the financial impact to adjust its response policies in relation to factors such as the reduction of GHG emissions.

Despite the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on global markets, Samsung Biologics has maintained stable business operations and the construction of plant 4 remains on track and active discussions are taking place with clients regarding future projects. It is expected to be partially operational by the end of 2022 and fully GMP-ready in 2023 in an effort to meet increased production demand.

For more details on performance and financials, please refer to the Earnings Release.

About Samsung Biologics Co., Ltd.

Samsung Biologics (KRX: 207940.KS) is a fully integrated CDMO offering state-of-the-art contract development, manufacturing, and laboratory testing services. With proven regulatory approvals, the largest capacity, and the fastest throughput, Samsung Biologics is an award-winning partner of choice and is uniquely able to support the development and manufacturing of biologics products at every stage of the process while meeting the evolving needs of biopharmaceutical companies worldwide. For more information, visit samsungbiologics.com.

Samsung Biologics Contact:

Senior Director of Global PRClaire Kimcair.kim@samsung.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/samsung-biologics-reports-third-quarter-2021-financial-results-301408352.html

SOURCE Samsung Biologics
BEIJING, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- A report from chinadaily.com.cn:

President Xi Jinping attended and delivered an important speech at a commemorative meeting marking the 50th anniversary of the restoration of the People's Republic of China's lawful seat in the United Nations in Beijing on Monday. Here are some highlights.

- The restoration of all the rights of PRC in the UN 50 years ago is a victory of the Chinese people and the people from around the world

- The restoration of PRC's seat in the UN is of significant, far-reaching importance

On China's development and contributions

- The past five decades have witnessed China's peaceful development and its commitment and dedication to the welfare of all humanity

- Chinese people have always safeguarded international fairness and justice, and made major contributions to world peace and development

- Chinese people have always upheld the authority and sanctity of the United Nations and practiced multilateralism, and China's cooperation with the UN has deepened steadily over the past 50 years

- China has blazed a path of human rights development that is consistent with the trend of the times and carries distinct Chinese features, thus making a major contribution to human rights progress in China and the international human rights cause

On multilateralism

- No civilization in the world is superior to others; every civilization is special and unique to its own region. Civilizations can achieve harmony only through communication and can make progress only through harmonization

- To build a community with a shared future for mankind is not to replace one system or civilization with another

- We shall be firm in opposing all forms of hegemony and power politics, as well as all forms of unilateralism and protectionism- The international community is confronted by regional disputes as well as global issues such as terrorism, climate change, cybersecurity and biosecurity. Only with more inclusive global governance, more effective multilateral mechanisms and more active regional cooperation, can these issues be addressed effectively

- We should resolutely uphold the authority and standing of the UN, and work together to practice true multilateralism

- We need to encourage green recovery, green production and green consumption and promote a civilized and healthy lifestyle

- The world should step up cooperation and work together to address the various challenges and global issues facing humanity

- Countries around the world should put their people front and center and strive to realize development with a higher level of quality, efficiency, equity, sustainability and security

On China's commitment

- China will stay committed to the path of peaceful development and always be a builder of world peace. China will remain committed to the path of reform and opening-up and always be a contributor to global development. China will stay committed to the path of multilateralism and always be a defender of the international order

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/xi-hails-restoration-of-prcs-rights-in-un-50-years-ago-301408104.html

SOURCE chinadaily.com.cn
TICKERS: LBC, OCG; OCGSF; MRG1,

Source: Streetwise Reports (10/26/21)

Streetwise Reports recently caught up with Ian Slater about his career trajectory from a chartered accountant to mining mogul whose companies include Libero Copper & Gold Corp., Zacapa Resources, and Outcrop Silver & Gold Corp.



Ian Slater is pushing ahead in the global mining industry in Canada, the U.S., and South America. The mining entrepreneur is currently involved in several copper mining projects. Slater sees a bright future for copper mining as electric vehicles and renewable energy industries boom. Unlike some in the sector, Slater didnt launch his career as a geologist or engineer.

Slater started his career as a chartered accountant at Arthur Anderson and Ernst & Young. The entrepreneurial dream bit him early. After working in the mining office in Vancouver, I transferred to Moscow, Russia. It was an entrepreneurial experience to recruit staff, develop contacts, and manage a steep learning curve, Slater shared in an interview.

While in Russia, Slater started to develop the skillset that opened the door to many opportunities in the mining industry. I transferred to Central Asia and started to help major mining companies negotiate stability agreements with the government of Uzbekistan, he shared with Streetwise Reports.

Breaking new horizons for Andersen in Central Asia provided some essential learning experiences. Entering a country and starting a business from scratch taught plenty of lessons. First and foremost was the importance of hiring a great team. Once you have the key people in place, everything else was much easier, he recalled.

From Accountant to Legendary Explorer

By 2007, Slater was ready for a new challenge. He retired as a partner from EY and started his first mining venture.

By the mid-2010s, Slaters mining ventures were starting to take off in several countries. Today, Slaters companies have developed multiple successful mining ventures in Colombia. In addition, Slater has found mining opportunities closer to home in British Columbia. He is the founder

and chairman of Libero Copper and Gold Corp. (LBC:TSX.V:, LBCMF:OTCQB), a mining company developing copper projects in South America and British Columbia.

In addition, Slater is executive chairman of Zacapa Resources, which is focused on copper mining projects in Arizona and Nevada. Adam Melnik, CEO of Zacapa Resources, has worked at several resource companies, including Pembridge Resources and Vedanta Resources. Timothy MacIntyre, VP Exploration, has a PhD from the Colorado School of Mines and joined the company from Rio Tinto, with previous experience at First Quantum and Ivanhoe.

The companys Red Top copper mine is located nearby several significant copper mines such as Pinto Valley (Capstone Mining) and Resolution and Superior East (Rio Tinto and BHP). The Red Top project will be drill tested in 2021.

Developing New Mines In Northern British Columbia

Slaters Libero has recently found a significant mining opportunity in Big Red, a mining property located in British Columbias Golden Triangle. We optioned the property in 2019 and started to explore it. Some prior exploration work had been here back in the 1960s and 1990s. All of those old records had to be digitized to guide our 2020 drilling efforts, Slater commented.

In December 2020 Libero discovered a new porphyry copper deposit. In contrast to less developed opportunities, Big Red should be relatively economical to develop. The mining site is already connected to the local road system, is at a low elevation of just 700 meters and has relatively low snowfall.

Big Red is a set of 20 continuous claims covering 26,000 hectares (64,247 acres) in the northwest of British Columbia. In July 2021, the company started a 5,000-meter (16,404 feet) drill program to develop the mine further. The Big Red mining site is located approximately 833 kilometers (517 miles) north of Prince Rupert, BC.

Colombia: The Next Frontier in Mining

For years, investors had mixed feelings about Colombia. The countrys reputation for instability and violence is starting to fade away.

In reality, Colombia has become much safer in recent years. A 2020 ranking of the worlds most dangerous cities by murder rate includes multiple cities in Mexico and Brazil. By betting on Colombias improving reputation, Slater has found promising mining opportunities.

"Weve been working in Colombia for more than a decade, and weve had no security issues. Yet, investor perception of Colombia has lagged behind the reality we see, Slater commented.

As the Chairman of Outcrop Silver & Gold Corp. (OCG:TSX.V; OCGSF:OTCQX; MRG1:DE), Im excited about our recent silver discoveries in Colombia. Santa Ana was the largest colonial silver mine in Colombia, and so far we have mapped 65 kilometers of silver veins and drilled up to 10 kg/t silver. Jesus Velador, VP Exploration, recently joined from Fortuna to progress the Santa Ana project after making multiple high grade silver discoveries in Mexico."

In recent company news, Outcrop announced that its four core holes extended Santa Ana's Megapozo shoot by 100 meters, with hole 72 intercepting 2.18 meters of 1,098 grams equivalent silver per tonne and hole 73 intercepting 1.42 meters of 3,151 grams equivalent silver per tonne.

Navigating The Ups & Downs of Mining

The mining business is highly cyclical as commodity prices move up and down. Thats not the only challenge Slater had to overcome as a new mining entrepreneur. When I started, it was right before the 2008 financial crisis. We acquired options on some projects to do exploration in Kazakhstan and were ready to go. When the financial crash happened, nobody returns your calls to finance grassroots exploration in Kazakhstan, Slater commented.

Developing Mines in a COVID World

Fortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a limited impact on Slaters mining companies so far. We had established teams in Colombia and BC, so closing international borders didnt affect us. The main problem weve faced recently is long delays with lab work. The mining labs in British Columbia were backed up for months for much of 2020, he recalled. These bottlenecks continue in 2021.

Earning A Social License

Running a successful mining business takes more than labs, geologists, and market demand. In our projects, weve been focused on earning a social license. It is only possible to operate when the local community benefits from the mine and supports the project, Slater commented. Ian Harris, CEO of Libero Copper & Gold, has spent much of 2021 in Colombia meeting with people in the local community to understand and address their concerns, Slater explained. Ian Harris was SVP and Country Manager for Corriente and was instrumental in obtaining a social license to develop the Mirador copper mine in Ecuador.

The social license concept goes beyond running the occasional listening tour. Libero Copper & Gold also focuses on hiring local geologists and workers to develop the mine. Earning a social license to operate is part of the companys success.

[NLINSERT]

Disclosure:

1) Bruce Harpham compiled this article for Streetwise Reports LLC and provides services to Streetwise Reports as an independent contractor/employee. He or members of his household own securities of the following companies mentioned in the article: None. He or members of his household are paid by the following companies mentioned in this article: None. His/her company has a financial relationship with the following companies referred to in this article: None.

2) The following companies mentioned in this article are billboard sponsors of Streetwise Reports: Outcrop Silver and Gold Corp. Click here for important disclosures about sponsor fees. As of the date of this article, an affiliate of Streetwise Reports has a consulting relationship with Zacapa Resources. Please click here for more information. The information provided above is for informational purposes only and is not a recommendation to buy or sell any security.

3) The article does not constitute investment advice. Each reader is encouraged to consult with his or her individual financial professional and any action a reader takes as a result of information presented here is his or her own responsibility. By opening this page, each reader accepts and agrees to Streetwise Reports' terms of use and full legal disclaimer. This article is not a solicitation for investment. Streetwise Reports does not render general or specific investment advice and the information on Streetwise Reports should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Streetwise Reports does not endorse or recommend the business, products, services or securities of any company mentioned on Streetwise Reports.

4) 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 Outcrop Silver & Gold Corp., a company mentioned in this article.
Buy Photo A team of aeromedical professionals was recognized recently by the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, for providing emergency care to a passenger suffering from decompression sickness on a flight in Japan. (Matthew M. Burke/Stars and Stripes)

A team of aeromedical professionals was recognized recently by the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base on Okinawa for providing emergency care to a passenger suffering from decompression sickness on a flight in Japan.

Five members the 18th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron were 45 minutes into their Japan Jetstar flight from Okinawa to Tokyo on Sept. 10 when a cabin attendant called over the public address system for help with a medical emergency.

Senior Airman Joshua Egler, 29, of Oklahoma City, had his earphones on but had noticed an unusual amount of activity in the aisle.

I started noticing the flight attendants walking up and down, Egler, an aeromedical technician, said during a group interview Friday with Stars and Stripes, and for some reason I looked back and one of the flight attendants was holding an oxygen bottle.

Egler, Senior Airman Deanna Adkins, Capt. Andrew Jimenez, Capt. Geryn Paguio and Staff Sgt. Elliott Sotnek were en route to temporary duty stateside. Jimenez, a 42-year-old flight nurse from Oceanside, Calif., was first to answer the attendants call.

At the back of the plane, a man in his early 20s was lying on the floor, an oxygen mask over his face and a pulse oximeter on his finger, Jimenez said. The mans oxygen saturation was much lower than it should have been and his heart rate much faster.

You could tell he was breathing very rapidly, he said. You want to calm him and pace his breathing so its not so fast.

The rest of the team followed Jimenez to the area that flight attendants had cleared by moving passengers to the front.

All of us just reacted, said Adkins, a 26-year-old technician from Bentonville, Ark. Its what were trained to do.

The team slid into their military roles, Jimenez said. Paguio, 48, of Monroe Township, N.J., took control of the scene while Jimenez talked to the man and began a primary assessment. He tasked Sotnek, 25, of Georgetown, Mass., with documenting everything for medical providers on the ground. A flight attendant brought a medical kit and Egler began taking the mans blood pressure. Adkins helped with the assessment and with crowd control.

The sick man knew his name, where he was and what day it was, which was a good sign, although he complained of numbness and tingling in his extremities, Jimenez said. He asked the passenger what he had been doing prior to the flight.

Thats when he said hed been scuba diving, Jimenez recalled. Pretty much as soon as he said that all of us had that aha moment.

It looked like decompression sickness, Jimenez said.

Decompression sickness, or the bends, occurs when divers ascend too quickly and nitrogen bubbles in their body tissue enter their bloodstream. The bubbles can block circulation and cause extreme joint pain. They can also cause tissue and nerve damage, a stroke, paralysis or death.

Divers are cautioned to allow sufficient time between their last dive and air travel to permit trapped nitrogen in their bodies to be released, because ascending to higher altitude in an airplane can also cause decompression sickness.

Jimenez said he stabilized the patients heart rate and breathing. Paguio relayed the seriousness of the emergency to the flight crew, who diverted the plane to Kansai International Airport in Osaka.

Time is of the essence when treating this kind of emergency occurrence in the air, Paguio said.

The team stayed with the man until he was passed off to emergency services, they said. The man made it to a local hospital alive, a Jetstar Japan spokesman told Stars and Stripes on Tuesday.

As Jetstar Japan, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to those who responded to this medical emergency, the spokesman said.

The 18th Wing publicized the incident, and in an email to Stars and Stripes on Friday said its considering awards for Jimenez, Paguio, Sotnek, Egler and Adkins.

Stars and Stripes reporter Mari Higa contributed to this report.
A Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet equipped with with live, anti-ship Harpoon missiles takes off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2021. (Booker Thomas III/U.S. Marine Corps)

MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan  A squadron of Marine reservists from Texas recently flew their F/A-18 Hornets from the air station with live, anti-ship Harpoon missiles, a practice a Marine spokesman says may become more frequent.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 sortied Oct. 19 with the AGM-84D Harpoon, a surface-skimming, rocket-propelled weapon with a 500-pound warhead, slung from their aircraft, according to a tweet two days later by a 1st Marine Air Wing spokesman. It was the second time the Cowboys flew with Harpoons in their holsters, Maj. Kenneth Kunze wrote.

Flying with Harpoons between exercises keeps Marine aviators proficient but also sends a message, Kunze wrote in an email Friday to Stars and Stripes.

Conducting operations such as this demonstrates our steadfast commitment to our partners and allies in the region and communicates that we are ready to Fight Now in defense of a free and open Indo-Pacific, he said. Anti-ship capabilities are important for sea control and sea denial missions along the first island chain.

Lance Cpl. Christian Wente, an aircraft ordnance technician with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112, lifts an AGM-84D Harpoon missile at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Oct. 19, 2021. (Booker Thomas III/U.S. Marine Corps)

The first island chain presents a geographic barrier between China, the Pacific Ocean and the Philippine Sea. It includes Japans four main islands, the Ryukyu Islands, Taiwan and the Philippines. Its strategic naval chokepoints are reckoned vital to any conflict in the region.

The Harpoon missile is the worlds most successful anti-ship missile, according to Boeing, its maker. It has a low-level cruise trajectory with active radar guidance. The missile can strike targets over-the-horizon on land and ships in port and uses GPS navigation to hit a designated target.

The latest version provides high hit probability against warships near to shore or travelling in narrow sea routes, according to naval-technology.com.

The Cowboys are reservists from Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas. They arrived at Iwakuni on Japans southeastern coast on Sept. 18 as part of a routine, six-month unit rotation.

Our fixed-wing assets are stationed in Iwakuni, and it is natural for them to conduct this type of training at their home station, Kunze wrote. Historically we have participated in joint exercises like Valiant Shield in Guam with the joint force conducting live Harpoon flights and missions. Continued home station training between exercises is vital to maintaining proficiency and lethality.

Harpoon flights may become routine, Kunze wrote.

Marine Aircraft Group 12 leadership in Iwakuni says to expect to see our jets flying with these more frequently, he said.

Jonathan Snyder
An F/A-18E Super Hornet lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson in the South China Sea, Oct. 25, 2021. (Tyler Fraser/U.S. Navy)

The aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson and its strike group are now operating in the contested South China Sea alongside a Japanese helicopter destroyer, the Navy said Monday.

The strike group and the JS Kaga of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force are conducting flight operations, tactical training between surface and air units and maritime strike exercises, the Navy said in a news release.

This marks the first time the Carl Vinson has operated alongside a Japanese vessel in the South China Sea since it deployed from San Diego in early August.

Japans helicopter destroyers are small helicopter carriers. One, the Izumo, has been improved to accommodate F-35B short-takeoff and vertical-landing F-35B Lightning II stealth fighters. The Kaga is scheduled for the same treatment.

The Carl Vinson arrived from the Indian Ocean, where last week it wrapped up the second phase of Exercise Malabar with naval forces from the United States, India, Australia and Japan.

The Vinson strike group was last in the South China Sea in September.

The carrier USS Ronald Reagan and its strike group also exercised in late September in the South China Sea on its way back to its homeport in Japan after being deployed to the Middle East.

In early October, the Reagan and Vinson strike groups also teamed up with the Royal Navy carrier strike group led by the HMS Queen Elizabeth and the Japanese helicopter carrier JS Ise for exercises in the Philippine Sea.

The Navy has maintained a high  and highly publicized  operations tempo for the past 18 months both in the South China Sea and through the Taiwan Strait.

China maintains it has sovereignty over a huge swath of the sea in disputes with other claimants in Southeast Asia, such as Vietnam, Philippines and Malaysia.

Beijing has also long asserted that Taiwan is a renegade province that must be eventually reunified with the mainland.

China has ratcheted up the pace of fighter jet sorties into Taiwans airspace in recent months, while the U.S. Navy has been sending warships through the strait roughly once a month to demonstrate U.S. resolve in what the Pentagon routinely calls operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Navy described the operations by the Carl Vinson and the Kaga as part of its routine presence in the region.

Bilateral operations are one key component in our collective maritime readiness, Rear Adm. Dan Martin, commander of Carrier Strike Group 1, said in the release. The Indo-Pacific is a dynamic region and by continuing to conduct routine operations with our allies and partners throughout international waters and airspace, we demonstrate our unwavering commitment to upholding international law, on the sea and in the air, and to ensuring that all nations can do the same without fear or contest.

Elements of the Vinson strike group now operating in the South China Sea include the guided-missile cruisers USS Lake Champlain and USS Shiloh, the guided-missile destroyer USS Stockdale and nine squadrons of the embarked Carrier Air Wing 2.

Aircraft include F-35C fighters, F/A-18E and F-18F Super Hornets, EA-18G Growlers, the E-20 Advanced Hawkeye and MH-60S Seahawk helicopters.

The Carl Vinson is the first U.S. carrier to be retrofitted to handle fifth-generation F-35C fighters and the tilt-rotor Ospreys. The ship completed the 17-month upgrade in the summer of 2020.
Gear is stowed at the Navys new mobile hospital site in a cave above the Arctic Circle in Norway, on Sept. 25, 2021. (U.S. Navy)

The U.S. Navy has established a 150-bed mobile hospital in a Norwegian cave network, signaling to NATO allies that the United States is committed to defending Europe, service officials said.

Naval Forces Europe and U.S. Navy Expeditionary Medical Support Command recently placed the facility in climate-controlled caves in the Bogen Bay area, above the Arctic Circle, the U.S. 6th Fleet said in a statement Monday.

The mobile hospital can be operated in the tunnels or transported to any other area, it said.

In this era of great-power competition, distributing our capabilities around the globe drives down risk, Rear Adm. Michael T. Curran, the readiness and logistics director at U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, said in the statement. The movement of an expeditionary hospital to Norway is a perfect example of how U.S. and allied forces provide mutual support in developing a resilient medical and logistics network.

Cave networks in Norways granite mountains house a variety of military and engineering equipment, including M1A1 Abrams tanks, amphibious assault vehicles and howitzers. The Marine Corps began pre-positioning materiel there during the 1980s, with defense against the Soviet Union in mind.

U.S. Navy Expeditionary Medical Support Command and Naval Forces Europe personnel deliver medical vehicles near Bogen Bay, Norway, on Sept. 25, 2021. (Norwegian Home Guard combat media team)

The mobile hospitals consist of 20 intensive care unit beds, 130 acute care ward beds, four operating rooms, an emergency room and a laboratory.

They can have a daily throughput as high as 30 hospital admissions and 36 surgical cases, according to the statement.

The hospitals also have X-ray and CT scan capabilities and can store 300 units of blood and 192 units of plasma, the Navy said.

This move shows our commitment to Norway and Europe and will allow us to exercise medical and logistical processes in an Arctic environment, which improves interoperability with NATO allies and partners, said Lt. Cmdr. Anthony Skrypek, who works in the medical service corps.

The U.S. Navys recently installed mobile hospital near Bogen Bay, Norway, has 150 beds and can be used in the cave network that houses it or taken to other places. (Norwegian Home Guard combat media team)

Before 2003, the Navy operated two 500-bed fleet hospitals in the Bogen Bay area. The hospitals were used in Operation Desert Storm and returned to Norway after the Gulf War in 1991.

During Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2003, those two hospitals were sent to Kuwait and later were returned to the United States.
Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro takes questions from sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. (George Cardenas/U.S. Navy)

YOKOSUKA NAVAL BASE, Japan  The U.S. Navy is reevaluating its presence in the Indo-Pacific region to protect national interests as China and Russia grow more assertive, according to the services top civilian leader.

Carlos Del Toro, who is on his first visit to Japan as Navy secretary, spoke with reporters via teleconference from the home of Naval Forces Japan on Monday, not long after 10 Russian and Chinese naval vessels circled Japan by passing through narrow Japanese straits.

That any nations ships could pass through international waters unimpeded is truly a wonderful thing, Del Toro said. Nonetheless, he saw another intent behind the exercise.

I believe that the relationship between China and Russia, perhaps recently, has evolved in ways where theyre trying to intimidate other nations with their actions that dont abide by a rule-based international order, he said. I think its necessary to thoroughly deter them from bullying other countries and being aggressors in any possible way.

The outward-bound Chinese and Russian warships passed through the Tsugaru Strait between Hokkaido and Honshu islands on Oct. 18 and returned inbound Thursday through the Osumi Strait off the southernmost tip of Kyushu Island.

Both straits are considered international waters, and the ships did not intrude on Japans territorial waters, according to The Associated Press on Tuesday, which cited Japans Ministry of Defense.

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro speaks to sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan at Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. (Natasha Chevalier/U.S. Navy)

Del Toro said reasonable deterrents may include reminding China and Russia of the importance of international order and cooperation. However, the United States continued presence  as well as partnerships with countries such as Australia, Vietnam, the Philippines and Japan  are key to discouraging aggression in the region, he said.

The Navy may expand the 7th Fleets presence in the region, according to Del Toro. He said the U.S. and its allies are experimenting with and assessing various options to preserve the United States economic interests in the Pacific.

We actually have a posture review thats currently underway at the Department of Defense, he said. We are reassessing our forward posture, trying to make assessments with regards to where we exactly need to be.

The DOD may release its Global Posture Review later this year or early in 2022, Del Toros spokesman, Capt. Jereal Dorsey, told Stars and Stripes in an email Monday.

Del Toro in an Oct. 7 memo said maintaining a strategic competitive advantage over Russia and China is one of his priorities. China in particular poses one of the most significant challenges facing the U.S., he wrote.

For the first time in at least a generation, we have a strategic competitor [China] who possesses naval capabilities that rival our own, and who seeks to aggressively employ its forces to challenge U.S. principles, partnerships, and prosperity, Del Toro wrote.

Similarly, Russia, Iran, and other authoritarian states use gray-zone aggression and coercion to challenge the rules-based international order.
Western Halloween traditions like trick-or-treating are not common in Japan and South Korea, but those countries do offer a variety of Halloween festivals and celebrations, with a few returning this year after the pandemic. (Ray McIntosh)

Americans may find comfort in autumnal staples like apple picking, pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating, but these traditions are not celebrated universally.

In Japan, however, many stores are decorated for Halloween and have a few holiday-themed items for sale.

By comparison, most retailers in South Korea do not decorate for Halloween, and finding spooky products there can be quite difficult. Pumpkin spice-flavored foods and drinks are practically unheard of.

South Korea celebrates autumn with popular corn drinks that resemble a smooth, creamed corn and are often served hot but are also available blended, like a Frappuccino.

In both countries, foods that are made with pumpkin are not particularly seasonal. More commonly available are items branded as pumpkin but made with acorn squash, or kabocha. This is used in drinks, cakes, tarts and also paired with poultry.

However, Starbucks in Japan this year is offering pumpkin spice lattes for the first time, 15 years after being released in America. These drinks include pumpkin puree and taste a little more savory than the popular American version.

Western Halloween traditions like trick-or-treating are not common in Japan and South Korea, but those countries do offer a variety of Halloween festivals and celebrations, with a few returning this year after the pandemic.

Halloween parades are a popular way to celebrate the holiday in Asia, especially in cities such as Itaewon in Seoul, South Korea, and Kawasaki in Japan. They are crowded places where young adults dress up in elaborate costumes and let loose until the early-morning hours.

The Kawasaki Halloween Parade has been canceled this year because of the ongoing pandemic, but crowds are expected to gather in Shibuya despite government warnings.

Theme-park events are becoming increasingly popular for young adults and families alike. Universal Studios Japan hosts Halloween Horror Nights in September and October with scare actors and frightening attractions around the park, although this year, the park has scaled back the event to include just one haunted house.

Tokyo Disneyland is also decorated festively like its U.S. counterparts with family-friendly, nonfrightening decorations and actors and limited-run, themed merchandise and snack offerings. Throughout October, guests are permitted to enter the park in Disney-themed costumes.

Sanrio Puroland, a theme park from the creators of Hello Kitty, usually has a Halloween party featuring characters from the world of Sanrio as DJs. This year, because of the pandemic, the park will celebrate with a few pumpkin-themed dishes and themed meet-and-greets.

Sanrio Puroland is one of several Japanese theme parks offering special events for Halloween this year. (Ray McIntosh)

Korean amusement parks such as Everland go all out during the Halloween season, with themed food, park decorations, gory makeup stations and a revamp of their multiple gift shops to sell a variety of Halloween-themed merchandise.

Everland, a theme park in South Korea, offers a circus-themed Halloween event. (Ray McIntosh)

Haunted events and horror movie releases in Japan mostly take place during Obon, which is a celebration of ancestors in August. At the start of Obon, people often light small bonfires in front of their houses to guide spirits back to home.

Families may invite Buddhist priests to their homes or visit a temple during Obon, and they often perform bon odori dances by another bonfire at the end of the celebration.

Though each culture celebrates differently, there is no wrong or right way to enjoy all the unique foods, drinks and festivities. Wherever you live, October should be a month of comfort and fun, regardless of how you celebrate the autumn season or Halloween.
Russian hackers are still rummaging through global computer networks despite headline-grabbing Russian and Chinese attacks over the past several months that should have prompted corporations to tighten security and the White House to take more pointed and forceful action.

Sure, some companies have said they want to communicate better about digital breaches and the Biden administration slapped some mild sanctions on Russia last spring. Russias response to this tepid pushback? Merriment, it would seem. Just imagine the chuckles in the Kremlin when operatives there see how nonchalant and feckless their targets have remained.

Microsoft noted on its blog Sunday that a state-sponsored group of Russian hackers called Nobelium orchestrated the epic SolarWinds hack last year. That burglary involved hackers sneaking into digital back doors on government and corporate networks worldwide and planting malware that lay dormant for a time. When the code became active, in the guise of familiar, friendly software, it had the ability to execute files, profile and disable systems and reboot computers. Much public and private hand-wringing greeted that disclosure.

Nobelium doesnt seem to have been bothered much by that collective angst. Microsoft said the group was even more active during the spring and summer and targeted cloud networks and software supply chains. Microsoft said it first spotted the new intrusions in May and notified 140 entities that they were targets. At least 14 of those wound up compromised. The company also said that Nobelium  using relatively unsophisticated tools such as phishing and password spraying  had launched at least 22,868 attacks between July 1 and Oct. 19 against 609 of its customers. That activity seems to have dwarfed earlier burglary efforts. In the three years before July 1, Microsoft had issued 20,500 warnings about hacks involving all of the nation-state actors it monitored.

Some caveats are in order. Microsoft said Nobeliums recent success rate was in the low single digits and didnt involve the novel and intricate hacking techniques that made the SolarWinds intrusion so frightening. Microsoft also said that improved coordination and information-sharing between the private and public sectors have made networks more resilient, as has the Biden administrations sanctions.

But the hackers are clearly not going away. They never will, after all. Securing digital networks always involves playing an unending game of whack-a-mole. Microsoft itself was targeted in an extensive hack engineered by China that began in January and wasnt uncovered for several weeks. And if hackers more recent attacks are being deflected, that still doesnt seem to have lessened their appetites. In fact, their forays have ramped up, and the implications are clear. Microsoft said in June that Nobelium had scanned technology companies, financial services firms and governments in 36 countries, trying to pick digital locks. Nearly half of those attacks involved what the company described as U.S. interests.

This recent activity is another indicator that Russia is trying to gain long-term, systematic access to a variety of points in the technology supply chain and establish a mechanism for surveilling  now or in the future  targets of interest to the Russian government, Microsoft said on its blog on Sunday.

Those targets of interest havent just been mighty corporations and rival governments. Schools, colleges, fire and police departments, hospitals, laboratories and other institutions have also come under routine attacks. Remember the Colonial Pipeline hack in May, the one that briefly shut down the largest refined fuels pipeline in the U.S. and threatened energy supplies along the East Coast? The economic, social and security fallout from successful hacks is tangible and brutal  and there is little public evidence that the private and public sectors are being as aggressive as they should be about buttoning up things.

The federal government should issue regulatory requirements for all enterprises, regardless of size, to publicize the details of any hack. Corporations need to demonstrate publicly that they are sharing information with one another rather than hunkering down after theyve been assaulted. They also need to submit to outside audits of their computer security protocols.

For its part, the White House should stop hoping for the best from nation-states eager to wreak digital havoc. Responding to hacks by bouncing some diplomats out of the country is a good first step, and firing mild economic sanctions across the Kremlins bow is fine. But theres no reason not to show a little more muscle now before another digital salvo lands on our shores. Burning down some digital networks in Eastern Europe or elsewhere that are used to mount attacks doesnt seem over the top at this point; neither does excommunicating rogue actors from the global banking and financial services system.

Those are blunt actions, I know. But this is serious stuff  and nobody seems to be listening.

Timothy L. OBrien is a senior columnist for Bloomberg Opinion.
Abdel-Fattah Burhan, who seized power in Khartoum on Monday, seems to be under the impression that Donald Trump still lives in the White House and Benjamin Netanyahu on Balfour Street. The Sudanese general evidently is counting on the foreign-policy obsessions of the previous U.S. president and opportunism of the previous Israeli prime minister to let him get away with his coup. Its up to President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett to let him know hes wrong.

Former President Trump cared little for democracy anywhere, never mind in what he infamously described as shithole countries of Africa and the developing world. To the extent that he was at all interested in Sudan, it was as a signatory to the Abraham Accords intended to normalize relations with Israel, a late-term idee fixe he shared with Netanyahu.

After a pro-democracy movement ended the 30-year dictatorship of Omar al-Bashir two years ago, the Trump administration dragged its feet on taking Sudan off the U.S. State Departments list of terrorism sponsors, which had prevented the impoverished sub-Saharan nation from accessing vital aid and investment. Even when a transitional government led by the former United Nations economist Abdalla Hamdok pulled off a series of extraordinary social and political reforms, it received little credit from Washington.

But when Trump wanted more ballast for the Abraham Accords, he sent Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to Khartoum with an unsubtle message: The terror-sponsor designation would stay until the Sudanese recognized Israel. The transitional government succumbed to the pressure, and most U.S. sanctions were duly withdrawn.

The lesson Burhan learned can easily be deduced from the fact that, no sooner had he taken over Monday, he committed himself to the international accords signed by the government he had overthrown. The clear message to Washington, and to Jerusalem: Sudan will stay in the Abraham Accords, dont worry.

Under previous management in both places, this reassurance might have been sufficient cause to look away from the developments in Khartoum. The onus is now on Biden and Bennett to demonstrate that the U.S. and Israel wont look kindly upon the generals power grab.

The bigger part of the burden lies with Biden, who has promised to distinguish himself from his predecessor by nurturing and protecting democracy around the world. Having already fallen short of those standards in Afghanistan, the U.S. president can hardly afford backsliding in Sudan.

Bennett made no extravagant promises about his foreign policy, but Sudan represents an opportunity to show that friendship with Israel is about more than simply signing accords. Siding with the Sudanese people at this hour would go some way toward overcoming widespread skepticism about the Abraham Accords among ordinary Arabs.

The two men should start by condemning the coup in much stronger terms than the deep alarm expressed by Jeffrey Feltman, Bidens special envoy to the Horn of Arica. Feltman had visited Khartoum over the weekend and met both Burhan and Hamdok; he apparently had no forewarning that one of his interlocutors would imprison the other in short order.

There are signs that the people-power movement that brought down al-Bashir is now regrouping to protest against Burhans takeover. Already, security forces in Khartoum have fired upon demonstrators, reportedly killing at least three. Biden and Bennett should give the protesters their full-throated backing, and make it clear to the Sudanese security forces that violence against peaceful demonstrators wont be tolerated.

The U.S. and Israel should also persuade the other countries that have influence in Sudan  its neighbor Egypt, and its key sources of financial assistance, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia  to press for the restoration of the transitional government, under Hamdok and other civilian leaders.

Biden has other levers he can pull. The U.S. is Sudans largest humanitarian donor, and State Department has said it will suspend $700 million in emergency aid pending a review of Mondays developments. The U.S. also can threaten economic sanctions and exercise its veto on assistance from the International Monetary Fund. But these measures risk penalizing the country for Burhans coup.

With coups, as with murder investigations, the first days after the event are crucial. By quickly demonstrating that they are cut from a different cloth from their predecessors, Biden and Bennett have the chance to end the crisis of democracy in Khartoum.

Bobby Ghosh is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. This column does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners.
An employee looks towards the Gallina liquefied natural gas (LNG) tanker after docking at the National Grids Grain LNG plant on the Isle of Grain in Rochester, U.K., on March 4, 2017. (Jason Alden/Bloomberg)

European Union energy ministers clashed at an emergency meeting over how to cushion consumers and companies from soaring power and natural gas prices, with political and legal constraints leaving little room for immediate action.

At an emergency meeting in Luxembourg on Tuesday, the ministers are discussing how the EU could complement measures already taken by member states and what could be done in the medium term to prevent future price shocks.

Countries including Poland and Spain called for the EU to come up with new intervention tools, but a group of nine nations including Austria, Denmark, Finland and the Netherlands argued that the hike is temporary and should not lead to quick changes to the blocs energy laws and ambitious climate reforms.

I dont think we should place too high expectations on EU-level measures because we cant influence the world prices of coal and gas and oil, Germanys Deputy Economy Minister Andreas Feicht told the meeting. We dont think we should go for overly hasty measures, which would actually lead to higher prices in the longer term or could actually undermine our climate objectives.

The unprecedented energy crisis has become one of the hottest issues as the 27-nation bloc heads into the winter season, with households facing double-digit increases in electricity bills and some industrial giants curtailing production.

Meanwhile, the European Commission is quizzing gas producers and suppliers to examine all allegations of possible anti-competitive conduct to check whether current price increases are related to antitrust breaches, according to comments from the blocs press office. Energy Commissioner Kadri Simson said after the ministers debate that the bloc would make sure markets were free of manipulation.

She added that the EU will decide on the role of gas and nuclear energy in its green rulebook in the near future -- an issue that has become more pertinent amid the surge in electricity prices. Their possible inclusion faces criticism from those who say the inclusion of gas is not compatible with the blocs net-zero goals, while there are issues surrounding the environmental impact of nuclear waste.

Tuesdays gathering follows a discussion last week about the crisis at a summit with EU leaders, who brushed off calls by some countries for quick fixes to the blocs laws and the Green Deal strategy to make the economy sustainable. Most countries have already cut taxes or approved subsidies to help households and companies, and there are few remaining tools that are technically possible and politically palatable.

I dont see a lot of margin for maneuver for countries to come up with something concrete and new, said Maximo Miccinilli, head of energy and climate at FleishmanHillard EU. Is this council going to be a game changer for these negotiations? My answer is no -- it will be about preparing for the mid-term.

With varying energy sources and industrial strengths, countries in the bloc differ on how to blunt the impact of the crisis. Nations including Greece and Spain have called for creating a common platform to purchase natural gas. France is urging a review of the power market design while Poland wants changes to the EU carbon market to curb speculation.

We need a joint European response because were talking about the single market for energy, said Sara Aagesen, Spains secretary of state of energy. We need a very urgent response to address the situation, without though jeopardizing the process of decarbonization.

The challenge for national governments and the regulators in Brussels is to come up with a solution that will keep the lights and heat on this winter while preserving support for the blocs ambitious climate agenda. The crisis struck at a time when member states are considering a package known as Fit for 55 to implement a stricter 2030 emissions-reduction target.

For the medium term, a central part of the solution lies with cost-effective energy efficiency measures and the accelerated deployment of renewable energy sources, the nine countries said in the document. We agree with the Commission that it is of utmost importance to swiftly proceed with the treatment of the Fit for 55 package to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.
U.S. airmen and Marines guide evacuees aboard an Air Force C-17 Globemaster III in support of the Afghanistan evacuation at Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul on Aug. 21, 2021. (Senior Airman Brennen Lege/U.S. Air Force photo)

WASHINGTON  Nearly 200 Americans who want to leave Afghanistan remain in the country nearly two months after the U.S. militarys evacuation mission ended at the Kabul airport, Pentagon officials told senators Tuesday.

The State Department is now making arrangements to move the roughly 196 Americans from Afghanistan either via air or over ground, Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Colin Kahl said at a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on security in Afghanistan. Since Sept. 1, about 240 American citizens and 57 U.S. green card holders have left the country.

On Aug. 30, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said between 100-200  but likely closer to 100  Americans who wanted to leave Afghanistan remained there when the last U.S. troops withdrew from the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul. However, Blinken noted his agency was still trying to determine exactly how many Americans remained there.

The State Department also has contacted another 244 U.S. citizens in Afghanistan who are not ready to depart either because they want to stay or arent ready to leave yet, Kahl said.

Republican senators such as Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma have questioned the administration of President Joe Biden over its tallies of Americans in Afghanistan, claiming we really don't know how many Americans were left in Afghanistan.

The administration by its own account left 600 Americans behind  over 400 of whom want to leave  not the 100 to 200 that has been referred to several times, Inhofe, the ranking Republican on the committee, said at the hearing. At the very least, it's confusing.

Inhofe also criticized the militarys decision to leave Afghanistan before all Americans were evacuated.

During the Aug. 18 interview with ABC, George Stephanopoulos asked President Biden whether US troops would stay beyond Aug. 31 if there were still Americans to evacuate. President Biden responded  and this is a quote  if there are American citizens left, we are going to stay to get them out,  Inhofe said. Of course, this didn't happen.

However, defense leaders have said staying any longer would have put more lives at risk as the Taliban pledged to restart its attacks on Americans if troops remained in the country past the promised Aug. 31 withdrawal date.

It was the consensus of civilian and military leadership at the Department of Defense that we should stick to the Aug. 31 deadline that extended risk to mission enforcement would make it harder to get American citizens out beyond that date, Kahl said.

In addition to the hundreds of Americans, thousands of vulnerable Afghans also remain in Afghanistan while they await special immigrant visas, which are given to allies who helped U.S. forces during their time in that country, Kahl said.

The total number of SIV's in the pipeline is 28,000, according to our records, of which 8,555 have come out with their family members, he said. So that would suggest there's a significant number of SIVs still in Afghanistan.

Kahl said the Biden administration is trying to get them out and hold the Taliban to their pledge for safe passage with people with documents which should include SIVs.

The problem, however, is the SIV process was not designed for an emergency  it's very slow, he said. Typically it took a year or two [and] nothing was done in the previous administration to speed that up. At the beginning of the Biden administration, the State Department took some steps that shrunk the time to about eight months  still way too long.

The Pentagon has also taken steps to help the State Department process SIV applications faster, creating an enormous database  to try to speed up the confirmation of employment necessary for special immigrant visas, Kahl said.

Meanwhile, about 53,000 Afghans are awaiting visa processing at eight military installations in the United States and about another 3,500 at bases in the Middle East and Europe, chief Pentagon spokesman John Kirby said Monday.

More than 6,000 have completed the process and have resettled in the U.S. since evacuation efforts began in late July, Kirby said.
At a news briefing on Monday, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby refused to directly blame Iran for the barrage of rockets and exploding drones that caused considerable damage to the base, according to photographs circulating on social media. He described it as a complex, coordinated, and deliberate attack and noted that similar attacks have been carried out by Iran-allied Shiite militias against U.S. troops elsewhere. (Jensen Guillory/U.S. Army)

Iran appears to have been responsible for a drone attack on a U.S. outpost in Syria, suggesting that a new front could be opening in the low-level conflict that has simmered since the United States pulled out of the Iran nuclear accord in 2017.

No U.S. casualties were reported in the attack on the isolated U.S. outpost at Tanf near the Jordanian and Iraqi borders, according to the U.S. military. But pro-Iranian media trumpeted it as a victory and it was the first major attack on U.S. troops in Syria by Iran.

It also marked the biggest and most sophisticated strike against the relatively small U.S. force in Syria deployed in 2015 to support Kurdish-led forces in the fight against the Islamic State.

At a news briefing on Monday, Pentagon spokesman John Kirby refused to directly blame Iran for the barrage of rockets and exploding drones that caused considerable damage to the base, according to photographs circulating on social media. He described it as a complex, coordinated, and deliberate attack and noted that similar attacks have been carried out by Iran-allied Shiite militias against U.S. troops elsewhere.

News outlets affiliated to Iran have not attempted to downplay the likely involvement of Tehran and its allied militias, however, touting the attack in commentaries in recent days as a major success and hinting that more strikes against U.S. troops in Syria will follow.

They credited the attack to a little known group called Allies of Syria, which earlier this month issued a statement threatening harsh retaliation for an Israeli airstrike against an Iranian base outside the Syrian city of Palmyra on Oct. 14. The Israeli strike, the statement said, was launched from the direction of Tanf.

The attack demonstrated a great deal of boldness and strength on the part of the Allies of Syria that will change the balance of power in Syria, said Irans Al-Fars news agency, which is run by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, the military entity that oversees Irans extensive network of militias in the region.

The Al-Ahed website, affiliated to Lebanons Hezbollah movement, said the attack heralded the start of a new phase in the confrontation in which Iran and its allies would seek to liberate Syria from U.S. troops. It noted that the American withdrawal from Afghanistan happened only under the pressure of military operations and not political or diplomatic pressure.

U.S. troops in neighboring Iraq have come under frequent rocket attack over the past four years, and at least three similar attacks involving drones have been reported in the past year. The United States has retaliated with airstrikes against Iran-allied militias in both Syria and Iraq, most recently in February, and it might respond to this one too, said Kirby.

Until recently, the estimated 900 U.S. troops scattered thinly across a vast swath of northeastern Syria and at their lone outpost further south at Tanf had been largely ignored by the Iranian troops and their militia allies backing President Bashar al-Assad.

That began to change over the summer with a series of largely unreported rocket attacks against U.S. bases in the Kurdish-controlled northeast, said Michael Knights, an analyst at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. He attributed the shift to a decision by Iran to order its allies to refrain from attacking U.S. troops in Iraq to ensure stability in the run-up to the parliamentary election held earlier this month.

The escalation at the Tanf garrison is likely tied to the dimming prospects for a resumption of negotiations to renew the Iran nuclear accord, according to Ali Alfoneh, an Iran expert at the Arab Gulf States Institute.

So far, Irans new hard line government has shown no inclination to return to the talks and on Monday the U.S. Special Envoy to Iran Robert Malley warned that the effort to persuade it to do so had entered a critical phase.

Speaking in a conference call with reporters after consultations with Arab Gulf and European allies he described a shared impatience with Iran and said he discussed with allies other tools that might be used to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon should Tehran continue to refuse to resume the talks.

Alfoneh said Iran may be seeking to secure leverage over the terms under which it returns to the talks by demonstrating its destructive capabilities against U.S. troops in the region. Other attacks may occur, he said, but nothing major because its not in Irans interest to escalate too far.

This is part of the negotiation. Iran cannot negotiate without military pressure because the U.S. holds all the cards, he said.

But the Tanf outpost, where a small number of U.S. troops are garrisoned in isolation from the bulk of the American force further north, has long been a source of frustration to Iran as well as the government in Damascus. It straddles a key crossing on the Syrian-Iraqi border and cuts off a major trade route between Iran, Iraq and Syria, the reports in Iranian affiliated news outlets noted.

Iran may also be eyeing the deadline for the departure of U.S. combat troops at the end of December, which could provide another trigger for renewed pressure on U.S. forces in the region, said Knights.

Toward the end of the year when the troops are supposed to leave Iraq and with the nuclear agreement not going that well, were going to see the temperature rise, he predicted.
Members of the 321st Training Squadron end physical training with a formation run during the filming of the docuseries Basic, which will stream on the Air Force Recruiting YouTube channel beginning Thursday. The eight-episode series follows five trainees who attended training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, between October 2019 and January 2020. (U.S. Air Force)

As Emma Lollar prepared for Air Force basic training in 2019, she spent hours scouring the internet for what to expect once she arrived at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in Texas.

Lollar said she found plenty of people offering advice in video blogs and many personal stories, but outside of marketing videos, there was no actual footage of what would happen during the nearly eight-week program meant to turn her from civilian to airman.

I was just trying to be as prepared as possible and, honestly, just to get myself excited to go. The day that I left, I was ecstatic, said Lollar, now 21 years old and an airman first class.

Meanwhile, Ken Raimondi, an Air Force veteran who now works as a producer and director for the 3rd Audiovisual Squadron at Lackland Air Force Base, also saw this void in content about basic military training and decided to pitch an idea. He proposed a documentary that followed the experience of trainees from beginning to end, capturing the typical physical training shown in marketing videos but also the mundane and human experience. He wanted to show the hours spent folding socks, life inside open bay housing with dozens of other people and what its truly like being yelled at by instructors.

Trainee Emma Lollar prepares to sing the Air Force song before morning physical training during the filming of the docuseries Basic, which will stream on the Air Force Recruiting YouTube channel beginning Thursday. The eight-episode series follows Lollar and four other trainees who attended basic training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, between October 2019 and January 2020. (Air Force)

During the years, the Air Force hasnt released much about nuances of basic training, so Raimondi said he was surprised when he got the green light on the project. The result is an eight-episode docuseries titled Basic. It premieres Thursday on YouTube on the official Air Force recruiting channel and it will roll out one episode a week for a combined 5.5 hours.

Im excited to provide this unique look into the journey Americas sons and daughters take as they become airmen in the worlds greatest Air Force, Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force JoAnne S. Bass said in a statement about the series. Their service to our Air Force and nation has never been more important, and seeing our military training instructors in action as they develop these airmen to fulfill those roles is motivating to say the least.

Lollar is one of five trainees who offered to be followed by cameras six days a week for 12 to 18 hours a day during an experience where success wasnt guaranteed.

A very interesting thing you'll see in this documentary is how people's opinions of what takes place changes as it goes on, Raimondi said. [Its] important to watch somebody go through it and express exactly how they feel about it at the time.

Tech. Sgt. Matthew Rice corrects a trainee during the filming of the docuseries Basic, which will stream on the Air Force Recruiting YouTube channel beginning Thursday. The eight-episode series follows five trainees who attended basic training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, between October 2019 and January 2020. (Air Force)

Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity

Every week, about 600 people arrive at San Antonio on a Tuesday to begin their Air Force or Space Force journey the following day. In total, thats about 35,000 trainees each year, with about 96.4 percent making it to graduation, according to the 737th Training Group, which oversees basic training.

They go from a group of individuals to a functioning team. That really is amazing, Raimondi said. They get there because they are forced to live together in a dormitory and accomplish group tasks. If they don't all work together to accomplish those tasks, there are consequences to that. Basic training is set up to be an environment where they can fail safely, so that when they get out into the real world, into the real Air Force, they don't fail when lives are on the line.

To find the five who he would follow, Raimondi put a call out to recruiters to find people scheduled to arrive for basic within a certain time frame and were willing to have cameras embedded with them for the entire training process. He narrowed his responses through interviews and an effort to capture a variety of backgrounds, geographic locations and Air Force job aspirations.

Lollar said she was intrigued from the moment that she heard about the project.

I honestly, really truly hope that people looking to join the Air Force will watch it because I feel like there's so much that you can take from it, she said. It's so honest. We were never prompted to say anything or be biased towards anything or sound good. It was completely raw emotion.

Raimondi and his crew of three airmen spent six days a week following the trainees. They began filming in October 2019 in each trainees hometown and wrapped with their completion of basic training in January 2020. They took hundreds of hours of video, said Raimondi, who edited the footage down into the final series.

Tech. Sgt. Matthew Rice, an instructor at Air Force basic training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas, encourages trainees to exit the dormitory during filming of the docuseries Basic, which will stream on the Air Force Recruiting YouTube channel beginning Thursday. The eight-episode series follows five trainees who attended basic training between October 2019 and January 2020. (Air Force)

Lollar, whose mother served in the Air Force, enlisted from her hometown of Springfield, Mass., after her first year of college. She agreed to participate in the docuseries to give others enlisting something to see before they show up at basic training. While she arrived with full knowledge that the crews would be following her every day, the other women in her training unit, known as a flight, had to adjust to the constant presence of cameras.

It became like second nature. Sometimes, it was a challenge for some of the girls to have a crew around listening to our conversations, she said. Overall, everybody is pretty excited.  its a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for every single one of us, not just the few of us who got the camera time.

The human aspect

The instructors working with the trainees also inadvertently became stars of the series.

Tech. Sgt. Matthew Rice and Master Sgt. Phillip Lowery, basic training instructors who are featured in the series, said they were happy to be involved, even if it meant that their own mistakes could make it into the final version and face scrutiny on social media.

[People] don't want to see heavy editing. They don't want to see only the cool highlights. They want to see the ups and the downs and the highs and the lows of something. That's what makes life great and what it is, Lowery said. I think its something that needs to be required.

The instructors said they always ask trainees how they prepared for basic training, but they said no one can really be completely prepared for the human aspect of it. When that many people live in an open bay together, you're going to have to learn how to deal with people, Lowery said.

Even in the isolation of basic training, life happens. During filming, someone in the flight got a letter with bad news. That happens, Lowery said, and trainees have to learn to work with someone that they heard spend the entire night crying in the bed right next to them.

Not only are we getting a solid piece of work to reference or to be entertained, but you're actually seeing real people going through real things for an extended period of time through basic military training, Rice said. What [the trainees of the series] are doing, I think is honorable. I believe that it is something that shows leadership characteristics.

As for instructors, Lowery said the series shows a true portrayal of them, as well  something the public might have only seen in movies, which creates stereotypes.

In this game, there's no defeat, he said. My biggest thing is just the positivity that we try to exude, so that when we push flights, we can hopefully get a higher caliber of individual coming out that not only meets the Air Force basic training standard, but also has a high value of themselves when they come out due to how positive we are.

Though Raimondis project had to be cleared through various levels of command, he said there was only one instance where someone recommended he cut anything. One scene included a jody, or a cadence sung in formation, that instructors had stopped using in the two years since filming. Raimondi trimmed it out.

The final product, he said, is a time capsule of five individuals and their journey through basic training.

As Lollars experience is set to be public, she said she isnt nervous, shes excited. She can already see how much she has grown in the two years since filming began.

Whenever Im a master sergeant or wherever I get to, I can show my younger airmen, or if my children decide to do it, she said. I think it would the coolest thing to be able to show when Im like 20 years older.
President Joe Biden is jetting off to Rome on Thursday to attend the annual G-20 summit, a gathering of leaders from the worlds most powerful nations. (Christian Conrad/DoD)

WASHINGTON (Tribune News Service)  President Joe Biden is jetting off to Rome on Thursday to attend the annual G-20 summit, a gathering of leaders from the worlds most powerful nations.

The Los Angeles Times is along for the ride and well be covering Biden in Rome and during a second stop in Glasgow, Scotland, where hes attending a United Nations conference on climate change.

Here are some matters that well be keeping an eye on.

First, what is the G-20?

The name stands for the Group of 20, referring to 20 governments that attend the annual forum, which went virtual last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The members include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, India, Indonesia, Italy, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United States and the European Union.

These are the heavy hitters on the international stage. Combined, they have 60% of the worlds population and more than 80% of its economic output. Although various ministers and senior officials have been meeting since 1999, the first gathering of the countries top leaders occurred in 2008, when they were drawn into closer cooperation to withstand the global financial crisis.

Its a less exclusive group than the Group of Seven, which met earlier this year and includes only the worlds most prosperous democracies. The G-20 is much more unwieldy too; its countries have disparate economic goals and radically different political systems. Finding common ground may prove increasingly difficult if the U.S. and China continue to settle into their roles as opposing superpowers.

What is the G-20 going to do about COVID-19?

When vaccines became available in December, international organizations pledged to equitably distribute them around the globe.

The hope was to vaccinate 40% of the population of each country by the end of this year. With a little more than two months to go, its clear that goal wont be met.

Science has played its part by delivering powerful, life-saving tools faster than for any outbreak in history, World Health Organization Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said earlier this month. But the concentration of those tools in the hands of a few countries and companies has led to a global catastrophe, with the rich protected while the poor remain exposed to a deadly virus.

The U.S. has donated 200 million vaccine doses so far and plans to deliver more than 1 billion by next fall. Public health advocates and developing nations will be watching the summit for any commitments to hasten the production or distribution of vaccine. Rich countries are under pressure to do more, especially because some are distributing booster shots. J. Stephen Morrison, director of the Global Health Policy Center at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, said theres fear thats going to lead to another cycle in which the wealthiest and most powerful countries consume most of the vaccines and hoard those and hold back.

The uncontrolled spread of the coronavirus anywhere on the planet could generate more deadly variants. The Delta variant, which was first detected in India, has already proved devastating in the U.S., causing a surge in deaths at a time when many Americans had hoped the crisis would be over.

Dr. Kathleen Neuzil, director of the Center for Vaccine Development and Global Health at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, said theres no way to end the pandemic without worldwide inoculations.

You cant keep throwing water on half the fire, she said. Youve got to get the water on the other half of the fire.

Can the U.S. patch things up with France?

There were some hard feelings last month when the U.S., United Kingdom and Australia announced a new security partnership called AUKUS, an acronym of the three countries names. As part of the deal, Australia plans to work with the U.S. on nuclear-powered submarines, and it canceled a lucrative contract for diesel-powered submarines from France.

What followed was an extended diplomatic tantrum from Americas oldest ally. France recalled its ambassador to the U.S., canceled a gala in Washington, D.C., and issued a string of scathing statements about suffering a stab in the back. It was the kind of rupture that European leaders had hoped would be a thing of the past once Biden replaced President Donald Trump, who delighted in offending trans-Atlantic partners.

The U.S. has been trying to make things up to France. During a visit to Paris earlier this month, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said the U.S. could have communicated better and sometimes tend to take for granted the relationship with France. Now Biden is expected to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron on the sidelines of the G-20.

Philippe Le Corre, a nonresident senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace who previously worked for the French Ministry of Defense, said the U.S. had fumbled an important relationship. Out of all the European powers, he said, France has one of the strongest commitments to the Pacific region  precisely where Biden has been emphasizing alliances to counter China.

You cant say China is a strategic competitor and, at the same time, neglect your European allies, Le Corre said.

Will there be any new climate commitments?

The G-20 forum is taking place right before a major United Nations summit on climate change in Glasgow, Scotland. Its known as COP26, meaning its the 26th conference of the parties since countries started meeting annually to address global warming in 1995.

The Glasgow event is intended to build on the Paris agreement from 2015, and countries are being pushed to announce more ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Biden already did that in April.

A clear sign of whether Glasgow will be successful could come in Rome. If the worlds richest nations make a strong statement about the need to address climate change, or if some announce aggressive plans to shift toward clean energy, that provides some hope that humanity can prevent global temperatures from reaching catastrophic levels.

However, expectations arent high. The meeting is taking place amid an energy crunch that has made electricity and fuel more expensive around the world, putting pressure on countries to increase their burning of fossil fuels.

We face real big headwinds at the moment, said Ma Jun, director of the Beijing-based Institute of Public and Environmental Affairs.

How will things go with China?

Several leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, wont be attending this years G-20 in person.

The most notable absence, however, will be that of Chinese President Xi Jinping. He hasnt left China since the pandemic began but plans to participate virtually.

Depending on whom you ask, this is either a lost opportunity for dialogue or an advantage for the U.S. Daniel Russel, a former top State Department official focused on Asia, called it a very substantial geopolitical plus. A two-dimensional Xi on a computer screen will struggle to compete with a lapel grabbing, hair-tousling, back-slapping Joe Biden at the summit, Russel predicted.

The White House seems to view the situation the same way. Jake Sullivan, Bidens national security adviser, told reporters Tuesday that the U.S. and Europe will show up in Rome energized and united and driving the agenda, shaping the agenda. China and the U.S. have been increasingly at odds over trade, maritime access in the South China Sea and Beijings aggression toward Taiwan. Thomas Wright, director of the Center on the United States and Europe at the Brookings Institution, said tension between the two countries will make it harder for the G-20 to reach consensus.

Can these organizations still function? he said. Can they still make progress on pressing challenges?

Biden and Xi are expected to get some face time before the end of the year  they plan on holding a virtual meeting.

How does Biden portray the politics back home?

Biden has always strived to frame domestic and international policy as being interwoven. He pitches his economic agenda as a way to keep the U.S. competitive with other countries, and he describes his work with allies as delivering dividends for the American people.

That overlap will be on display in Europe, where Biden will showcase what foreign policy for the middle class is all about, Sullivan said. The president, he added, will be focused on supply chain problems and rising energy prices. Biden is leaving Washington during a critical stage of congressional negotiations over expanding safety net programs and investing in infrastructure. If he has a deal by the time he steps aboard Air Force One, it will be a show of political strength before meeting with his counterparts at the summit.

Biden wants to go into this meeting saying, the U.S. is making the investments it needs to at home to build back better and we want others to join us, said Matthew P. Goodman, senior vice president for economics at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

But if he doesnt reach a deal, Goodman said, Biden will have a hard time convincing people that the U.S. is back.

Biden is working to pare down his proposals to satisfy Democrats like Sens. Joe Manchin of West Virginia and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona. Nathaniel Keohane, the president of the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, said if environmental policies are gutted from the legislation, that would be a serious setback on U.S. leadership on climate, and frankly its leadership in the world.

No one in the international community wants to hear that politics is tough in the U.S. and theres polarization and we only have 50 votes, he said.

Sullivan downplayed the importance of nailing down an agreement before Biden attends the G-20, and he claimed world leaders will appreciate Bidens objectives.

Whether there is a bill this week or whether the negotiations continue, there will be a lot of energy and enthusiasm for the efforts the president is undertaking right now, he said. (Los Angeles Times staff writers Alice Su, in Beijing, and Tracy Wilkinson, in Washington, contributed to this report.) 2021 Los Angeles Times.

Visit at latimes.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The letters signatories were four Democrats  Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Dianne Feinstein of California and Ron Wyden of Oregon  plus four Republicans: Charles E. Grassley and Joni Ernst of Iowa, Mike Braun of Indiana and Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia. (Alex Wong, Getty Images/TNS)

WASHINGTON  A bipartisan group of senators criticized the Defense Department on Tuesday for moving too slowly to combat sexual assault in the ranks.

The group of eight senators, including three who serve on the Armed Services Committee, made their views known in a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III that was obtained by CQ Roll Call.

The senators expressed their disappointment and concern with the Pentagons vague approach and lax timeline, in particular Austins decision to take up to nine years to implement key elements of the departments response to the problem.

The men and women who serve in our military cannot continue to operate another day, let alone another decade, under a chain of command that is unwilling or incapable of taking decisive action to address this epidemic, the senators wrote. A problem of this magnitude demands an immediate, proportionate response.

The letters signatories were four Democrats  Kirsten Gillibrand of New York, Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, Dianne Feinstein of California and Ron Wyden of Oregon  plus four Republicans: Charles E. Grassley and Joni Ernst of Iowa, Mike Braun of Indiana and Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia.

Gillibrand, Blumenthal and Ernst serve on the Armed Services Committee.

In late June, a Pentagon-chartered panel called the Independent Review Commission released a report with 82 recommendations on how the U.S. military could improve the prevention of and response to the problem of sexual assault among service members.

The proposals included moving the power to decide whether to prosecute such crimes away from senior officers in the chain of command and giving it to what would become new offices of trained prosecutors in each of the services.

On Sept. 22, Austin announced the departments implementation plan. The response  setting up new billets, preparing training materials and the like  would roll out in phases, he said. Some actions are already underway, but the soonest deadlines for completing the first of four tiers of actions would occur in 2027, and the latest in 2030.

By sharp contrast, the authors of the letter form part of a 66-senator supermajority that has backed legislation to implement the core of the recommendations in just six months. Moreover, that group has advocated professionalizing prosecution of not just sexual crimes in the military but nearly all major offenses.

In their letter Tuesday, the eight senators asked Austin to brief their offices by Nov. 30 on how he intends to make changes, such as creating the new prosecutors offices, in no later than six months, as opposed to years.

The difference between the Pentagons timeline and the one envisioned by majorities in both chambers on Capitol Hill is stark. In fact, Austins schedule may soon be supplanted by a law requiring faster changes than he plans.

The six-month timeline endorsed by the letters signatories is part of the Senate Armed Services Committees National Defense Authorization Act bill. That bill has yet to come to the Senate floor, let alone be reconciled with the Houses NDAA, which that chamber has already passed.

The Senate bill contains not just the six-month plan endorsed by 66 senators but also a separate section by Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C., that would create  within two years  special victims prosecutors offices focused solely on sexual crimes.

According to the bill, the two offices have overlapping responsibility for making prosecution decisions on nine types of crimes.

The House NDAA essentially mirrors Tillis proposal.

The overlap in duties and the differences in timelines, among other issues, still must be reconciled. That will be done either by Congress in the final version of the NDAA, or by the Pentagon, when it implements the law.

Regardless of what the NDAA ends up stipulating, Congress is on track to send President Joe Biden an NDAA that makes most major changes within two years, and perhaps within six months  a far cry from the Pentagons 2030 goal.

Given the magnitude of the problem, the senators told Austin in Tuesdays letter, the Department has no valid reason not to keep its foot on the gas.

2021 CQ-Roll Call, Inc., All Rights Reserved.

Visit cqrollcall.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Jerry Glenn Howell, 88, passed away on Monday, November 15, 2021 at his home in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 19, 2021 from 5-7pm at Dighton Marler Funeral Home in Stillwater. www.dightonmarler.com.
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.
Weather Eye

with John Maunder

The following data sets and comments are from the climate4you.com website developed by Professor Ole Humlum who is a Danish Professor Emeritus of Physical Geography at the University of Oslo, and Adjunct Professor of Physical Geography at the University Centre in Svalbard.

The website climate4you.com which he edits endeavours to provide an ongoing climate data website which is updated monthly.

It uses data of significant national and global sites such as NASA, WMO, NOAA, UEA, NCDC, IPCC, BoM, SIDA, UAH, NIWA. The objective of the website is to provide information on meteorological and climatological issues of general and specific interest.

Recent global air temperature change, an overview

All temperature diagrams shown below have 1979 as starting year. This roughly marks the beginning of the recent period of global warming, after termination of the previous period of global cooling from about 1940. In addition, the year 1979 also represents the starting date for the satellite-based global temperature estimates (UAH and RSS).

For the three surface air temperature estimates shown (HadCRUT, NCDC and GISS) the reference period differs. HadCRUT refers to the official normal WMO period 1961-1990, while NCDC and GISS as reference instead uses 1901-2000 and 1951-1980, respectively, which results in higher positive temperature anomalies.

For all three surface air temperature records, but especially NCDC and GISS, administrative changes to anomaly values are quite often introduced, even for observations several years back in time.

Some changes may be due to the delayed addition of new station data, while others probably have their origin in a change of technique to calculate average values.

It is clearly impossible to evaluate the validity of such administrative changes for the outside user of these records. In addition, the three surface records represent a blend of sea surface data collected moving ships or by other means, plus data from land stations of partly unknown quality and unknown degree of representativeness for their region.

Many of the land stations have also moved geographically during their existence, and their instrumentation changed.

The satellite temperature records also have their problems, but these are generally of a more technical nature and therefore correctable.

In addition, the temperature sampling by satellites is more regular and complete on a global basis than that represented by the surface records.

It therefore is realistic to recognise that the temperature records are not of equal scientific quality. At the same time the big efforts being put into all five temperature databases should be gratefully acknowledged by all interested in climate science.

On this background, the present website has decided to operate with three quality classes (1-3) for global temperature records, with 1 representing the highest quality level:

Quality class 1: The satellite records (UAH and RSS).

Quality class 2: The HadCRUT surface record.

Quality class 3: The NCDC and GISS surface records.

*********************

The satellite records (UAH and RSS)

Global monthly average lower troposphere temperature since 1979 according to University of Alabama at Huntsville (UAH), USA. This graph uses data obtained by the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) TIROS-N satellite, interpreted by Dr. Roy Spencer and Dr. John Christy, both at Global Hydrology and Climate Center, University of Alabama at Huntsville, USA. The thick line is the simple running 37 month average, nearly corresponding to a running 3 yr average. The cooling and warming periods directly influenced by the 1991 Mt. Pinatubo volcanic eruption and the 1998 El Nino, respectively, are clearly visible. Reference period 1991-2020.

The HadCRUT surface record

Global monthly average surface air temperature since 1979 according to Hadley CRUT, a cooperative effort between the Hadley Centre for Climate Prediction and Research and the University of East Anglia's Climatic Research Unit (CRU), UK. The thin line represents the monthly values, while the thick line is the simple running 37 month average, nearly corresponding to a running 3 year average. An introduction to the dataset has been published by Brohan et al. (2005). Base period: 1961-1990.

The NCDC and GISS surface records

Global monthly average surface air temperature since 1979 according to the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC), USA. This time series is calculated using land surface data from the Global Historical Climatology Network (Version 2) and sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies from the United Kingdom MOHSST data set and the NCEP Optimum Interpolated SSTs (Version 3). The thick line is the simple running 37 month average, nearly corresponding to a running 3 year average. Base period: 1901-2000.

**************************************

For further Infomation about a wide range of weather/climate matters see my new book Fifteen shades of climate... the fall of the weather dice and the butterfly effect. The book is available through the web site amazon.com. Just Google fifteen shades of climate for details.

www.amazon.com/dp/B08NDR1GFD?ref_=pe_3052080_397514860
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has announced a Covid-19 vaccination mandate for businesses in which vaccine certificates are set to be needed for entry.

This includes hospitality, events, gyms and hairdressers and barbers  classed as close contact workplaces.

Ardern has made the announcement at a post-Cabinet meeting alongside Workplace Relations and Safety Minister Michael Wood, which you can watch live above.

"If customers must be vaccinated, then so too, must the workers," says Ardern.

"The timing of this coming into force will depend on when we move to the Covid-19 Protection Framework."

Minister Wood has announced that vaccination will be required for all workers at businesses where customers need to show Covid-19 Vaccination Certificates, such as hospitality and close-contact businesses.

Overall, Wood suggests, combined with the border, healthcare and education workers already mandated, it will equate to 40 per cent of the New Zealand workforce.

Ardern makes it clear that the mandate will not impact access to healthcare or businesses such as supermarkets. Access to Government support will also not be impacted.

A new law will be introduced to provide a clearer and simplified risk assessment process for employers to follow when deciding whether they can require vaccination for different types of work.

Non-vaccinated workers in roles requiring vaccination will be given a new four-week notice period to get vaccinated before employment can be terminated.

Employers will be required to provide paid time off for workers to get vaccinated and will need to keep records about workers vaccination status.

Weve heard the calls from employers and employees to provide certainty on what roles need to be done by vaccinated workers under the Covid-19 Protection Framework, says Minister Wood.

Were mandating vaccination for workers at businesses where customers need to show Covid-19 Vaccination Certificates to make those workplaces as safe as possible and give confidence to staff and customers.

The timing of this coming into force will depend on when we move to the Covid-19 Protection Framework.

Wood says they are hoping to make the vaccine mandate risk assessment process as clear as possible.

Thats why we will introduce a risk assessment process in law for employers to follow when deciding whether they can require vaccination for different types of work.

Wood also details what will happen to those employees who refuse vaccination, without legitimate medical reasoning.

To provide clarity, a new four-week notice period will apply if their employment is terminated if they choose not to be vaccinated and their work requires it.

Our law change will require a minimum of four weeks paid notice for any employee who loses their job because they are not vaccinated.

This change will only apply to employees who do not have a notice period, or whose notice periods are shorter than four weeks. Most employees will have notice periods in their employment agreement.

Employers will also be required to keep records about workers vaccination status. MBIE will work with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for privacy matters.

We understand the urgency and we expect these changes to be in place to align with the Covid-19 Protection Framework coming into force, says Wood.

We will pass this legislation as a priority to give workplaces the certainty they need, because vaccination is one of the best tools to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading.
Being prepared for an emergency or disaster reduces our vulnerability to their impact and helps to save lives.

This week is Good and Ready Week and New Zealand Red Cross is encouraging everyone to get involved and be prepared for when the next emergency happens.

We know our communities across Aotearoa New Zealand have been and continue to be impacted by emergencies. Whenever and wherever needed, New Zealand Red Cross is there.

Now, New Zealand Red Cross is offering a way for businesses to also play a role to help support the work they do.

We know from experience that a more connected and prepared community is one that recovers faster after an emergency, says Red Cross secretary general Sarah Stuart-Black

Thats why today we are launching the Disaster Response Alliance, a new partnership opportunity for businesses interested in supporting New Zealand Red Cross Disaster Welfare and Support Teams.

Our Disaster Response Alliance partners stand alongside New Zealand Red Cross by providing fundraising and other support to ensure our highly-trained Disaster Welfare and Support Teams are ready and able to respond  whenever and wherever we are needed across Aotearoa New Zealand.

Businesses partnering in New Zealands first Disaster Response Alliance, will also be helping strengthen the resilience of individuals, families, whanau, workplaces and whole communities.

Today I want to recognise our founding members of the Disaster Response Alliance  NZ Post, Countdown and The Warehouse and thank them for pledging their support to this important new initiative, says Sarah.

Businesses interested in making a positive difference in the lives of New Zealanders during an emergency or disaster can find out more about joining the Disaster Response Alliance by visiting our website: https://www.redcross.org.nz/get-involved/partner-with-us/disaster-response-alliance/

For everyone, Good and Ready Week is an opportunity to ask that all important question is my household good and ready in the case of earthquake, fire, flood or other disaster?

Theres real value in planning ahead so that your friends and family are better prepared. Its often too late once a disaster hits, so we are encouraging everyone to download the free New Zealand Red Cross Hazard App, adds Sarah.

The New Zealand Red Cross Hazard App provides life-saving information before, during and after emergencies, sending official warnings and alerts, and providing step-by-step guides to help households get ready for emergencies.

It can be downloaded from the App store for iOS devices and Google Play store for Android devices

To support uptake of the Hazard app by Kiwis, QBE, the primary supporter of the New Zealand Red Cross Hazard app, is also pledging an additional $5,000 to New Zealand Red Cross if 500 people download the app before the end of October, so more people can take steps for themselves and their families and whanau to be better prepared.
The Government is introducing a range of measures to help protect workplaces and workers from Covid-19, Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Michael Wood announced today.

Weve heard the calls from employers and employees to provide certainty on what roles need to be done by vaccinated workers under the Covid-19 Protection Framework, says Wood.

Were mandating vaccination for workers at businesses where customers need to show Covid-19 Vaccination Certificates to make those workplaces as safe as possible and give confidence to staff and customers.

The timing of this coming into force will depend on when we move to the Covid-19 Protection Framework. Were working with the CTU and BusinessNZ to make sure we will have robust guidance for businesses ready well in advance.

A number of businesses have already gone through a risk assessment process to mandate vaccinations at their workplace, but weve had calls from both businesses and unions to make this process as clear as possible. Thats why we will introduce a risk assessment process in law for employers to follow when deciding whether they can require vaccination for different types of work.

We know though that many businesses and employers who are not covered by vaccine certificates want greater clarity on whether they can mandate vaccines. This process will provide businesses with a clear and simplified legal framework to make decisions about requiring staff to be vaccinated or not.

This risk assessment will build on the guidance provided by WorkSafe, with input from public health officials, business representatives and unions. It will cover factors like whether a workplace involves interaction with customers.

This new process wont override risk assessments that businesses have already done under the existing health and safety guidelines.

We know that these changes raise questions around what happens when mandated employees refuse to get vaccinated. To provide clarity, a new four-week notice period will apply if their employment is terminated if they choose not to be vaccinated and their work requires it.

Our law change will require a minimum of four weeks paid notice for any employee who loses their job because they are not vaccinated.

This change will only apply to employees who do not have a notice period, or whose notice periods are shorter than four weeks. Most employees will have notice periods in their employment agreement.

Employers will also be required to keep records about workers vaccination status. MBIE will work with the Office of the Privacy Commissioner to provide practical guidance on how to ensure workers records are handled appropriately.

We understand the urgency and we expect these changes to be in place to align with the Covid-19 Protection Framework coming into force.

We will pass this legislation as a priority to give workplaces the certainty they need, because vaccination is one of the best tools to reduce the risk of Covid-19 spreading.

Vaccination will be required for all workers at businesses where customers need to show COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates, such as hospitality and close-contact businesses.

New law to introduce a clearer and simplified risk assessment process for employers to follow when deciding whether they can require vaccination for different types of work.

Non-vaccinated workers in roles requiring vaccination will be given a new four-week notice period to get vaccinated before employment can be terminated.

Employers to be required to provide paid time off for workers to get vaccinated and will need to keep records about workers vaccination status.

New Covid-19 strategy raises te Tiriti and human rights issues

Greater clarity on the Governments response to Covid-19 is welcomed by the Human Rights Commission, but it says the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and human right implications need careful analysis.

A new Covid-19 Protection Framework for Aotearoa New Zealand was announced by the Government last week, setting out a traffic light system for opening up the country, which has vaccination certificates at its core.

Chief Commissioner Paul Hunt believes NZ is now at a pivotal moment in our fight against the virus, and our human rights must be clearly understood.

It is critical we continue to protect the fundamental rights to life and healthcare and protection of people in Aotearoa New Zealand, while preserving the safeguards we have in place to avoid discrimination and a disproportionate limit on the rights and freedoms of groups or individuals.

The Commission is reviewing the human rights implications of the vaccination certificates policy, including how they will be used in practice, and in what circumstances.

Hunt says the lack of any specific priority within the framework to ensure a 90 per cent full vaccination rate for Maori is noted with concern, as this may leave some communities vulnerable to the continued spread of Covid-19.

While the Government has provided funding to boost vaccination rollout to Maori communities these initiatives may take time to be effective unless implemented with urgency.

Aotearoas death rate at 28 is dramatically lower than other countries. According to World Health Organization Covid-19 statistics Ireland, with a similar population to Aotearoa, has had more than 5000 deaths while Australia with a population of 25 million has more than 1500.

"Anyone who is able to be vaccinated against Covid-19 is encouraged to do so to fulfil their human rights responsibility to whanau, friends, neighbours, work colleagues, community and all front-line workers, such as health professionals and carers."

Human rights are not just about rights. They are also about our responsibilities to each other, including the responsibility to do all we reasonably can to keep each other safe, says Mr Hunt.

Information on Covid-19 and human rights is available on the commissions website.
Airlines offer 6.7 million flight seats to enjoy the winter sun on the Costa del Sol The number of seats on offer during the low season' is 5 per cent higher than the winter before the start of the pandemic. Airlines will offer a total of 1,454,540 seats on UK flights alone

The one-hour time change this Sunday marks the beginning of the low season for the airlines that have shown their commitment to the Malaga Airport by scheduling more flights to the winter sun on the Costa del Sol than before the Covid-19 pandemic.

Data from the national airport operator, Aena, shows that between 1 November and 26 March, 2022, airlines have scheduled 6,721,244 seats to fly to the Costa del Sol, which is 5 per cent more than in the winter season before the start of the pandemic. The volume of operations will also grow, with 3.4 per cent more aircraft movements expected to reach 40,000 commercial operations.

Direct flights to 108 destinations

Malaga will, this winter, be united with direct flights to some 108 destinations, improving connectivity with thirteen more destinations than in 2019. Aena emphasises that London is once again the city at the forefront with the largest number of seats and scheduled flights offered.

The airlines will offer a total of 1,454,540 seats on UK flights. Despite the fact that the offer is 11 per cent less than winter 2019 the British market continues to lead as the country with the highest number of seats offered to Malaga.

National market

The airport operators data also reveals that the national Spanish market maintains its strength this low season. In fact, on the 27 routes that airlines plan to operate, the seat offer increases in total by 11 per cent, with almost 1.4 million seats on flights between Spanish airports.
Gun recovered in Estepona after car driver jumps police checkpoint and chase ensues A revolver and more than 3,200 euros in cash were found in the high-end vehicle when it was eventually stopped

Spain's National Police force has arrested two men in Estepona for allegedly attacking officers, possessing an illegal weapon and the pair also face a dangerous driving charge.

A chase began, first in a vehicle and later on foot, after a high-end car was stopped at a police checkpoint in the Costa del Sol town, but the driver tried to flee the scene.

"During their escape attempt, the people detained endangered the lives of other drivers, their own and those of the officers, who they also attacked when they were arresting them, causing minor injuries," the police said in a statement.

When police officers searched the car they found a revolver and 3,280 euros in cash in the vehicle.

The case is now in the hands of the Estepona court.
Fashion brand Gant opens new store next to Malaga's Plaza Mayor Located in the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, the retail space is part of the company's national expansion plans in Spain

Eight staff will serve the new store. / SUR

The American Swedish clothing brand Gant has opened a new store in McArthurGlen Designer Outlet, next to Malaga's Plaza Mayor shopping centre.

The 250 square metre retail space is part of the company's national expansion strategy in Spain.

Gant, which already has a store in Puerto Banus, says that its objective is to have a presence throughout the country, and that the recent opening gives them "the opportunity to create excitement about our brand and the future of American sportswear."

Martin Mattson of Gant Iberia said: "We are very happy to open our store in the McArthurGlen Designer Outlet Malaga."

The new store will be staffed by eight people and will open from 10 am to 10 pm.
Watch tricky rescue as police recover a five-foot long snake from a Malaga water meter box When the homeowner in Churriana went to check the water meter at his home he wasnt prepared for what he would find

When a homeowner at a property in the south of Spain went to check the water meter at his property, he was in for a big surprise. As he opened the little door to reach inside, he heard a strange noise that made him stop. He returned with a torch and that was when he found that a large snake, over a metre and a half in length, was coiled up inside the small box.

The discovery was made at a house in Calle Realenga de Witemberg, in the Churriana area of Malaga. The homeowner, called the 092 Local Police control room and they despatched colleagues from Gruprona, who specialise in this type of rescue.

The officers who arrived on the scene found the snake in the brick and cement box, about 40 centimetres square, with a metal door, which was open. The reptile was coiled up near the water meter stopcock.

The Gruprona team first tried to capture the snake by hand, but it was not possible due to the difficulty of the access, so they finally used a snake-catcher grab stick. The rescue was also complicated due to the large size of the reptile, according to sources, measuring more than a metre and a half long and it was about ten centimetres thick.

Finally, the policemen managed to capture the snake, without harming it, and put it in a carrier. However, due to its size and being a native reptile in good condition, it was decided to release it into the wild. The officers took it to a forest area well away from human presence and released it.
Atlantic, IA (50022)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High 53F. Winds N at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy early with some clearing expected late. Low around 30F. Winds light and variable.
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Tahlequah, OK (74464)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High around 65F. Winds SSE at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 50F. Winds light and variable.
Seminole, FL (33772)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. Slight chance of a rain shower. High 77F. Winds NE at 10 to 20 mph..

Tonight

Some clouds. Low 66F. Winds NE at 10 to 15 mph.
Lamar Lewis of Temple, who has been the district director for state Rep. Hugh Shine for almost six years, threw his hat into the ring Monday f
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Visit to the Deutsches Zweirad- und NSU-Museum



NSU: NSU Motorenwerke AG, or NSU, was a German manufacturer of automobiles, motorcycles and pedal cycles, founded in 1873. Acquired by Volkswagen Group in 1969, VW merged NSU with Auto Union, creating Audi NSU Auto Union AG, ultimately Audi. The name NSU originated as an abbreviation of "Neckarsulm", the city where NSU was located.



From the outside, the museum is rather unassuming, compared to the museums of Mercedes Benz and Porsche, but on the inside, you're greeted by nearly four floors of Motorcycle, Engine and Automobile history.





The ground floor after the Reception had a special exhibition on Racing Motorcycles and this is what we came across:





In the adjoining rooms on the ground floor are some art exhibits and the large video room, where various videos on the history of NSU, Motorcycles, the Second World War etc keep playing. The cool part about this theatre is you get to sit on some of the historic bikes and view the videos, along with excellent sound effects. My son was extremely thrilled to experience all this. Even as I sat on them, I could think of only one thing, " Man, are these comfortable to sit on", seems like we have lost the basic purpose of comfortable transportation with the current lot of motorcycles;.











As is displayed, these are the steps in the evolution of the motorcycle, as put in a broad sense: Invention, Breakthrough, Freedom



A well known part of motorcycle history and Germany is that Germany was/is the birth place of the Motorrad/Motorcycle, with Hildebrand & Wolfmuller becoming the first series production motorcycle, in 1894. While BMW may be the only surviving German brand, many motorcycle companies and brands have had their roots in Germany and these are all showcased at the Deutsche Zweirad Museum ( German Two-Wheeler Museum ), located at Neckarsulm. While Neckarsulm may not be a very well known town tourist-wise, it has an important place in the history of Germany, engine development and the auto history. A few excerpts from the history of Neckarsulm and the company NSUNSU Motorenwerke AG, or NSU, was a German manufacturer of automobiles, motorcycles and pedal cycles, founded in 1873. Acquired by Volkswagen Group in 1969, VW merged NSU with Auto Union, creating Audi NSU Auto Union AG, ultimately Audi. The name NSU originated as an abbreviation of "Neckarsulm", the city where NSU was located.From the outside, the museum is rather unassuming, compared to the museums of Mercedes Benz and Porsche, but on the inside, you're greeted by nearly four floors of Motorcycle, Engine and Automobile history.The ground floor after the Reception had a special exhibition on Racing Motorcycles and this is what we came across:In the adjoining rooms on the ground floor are some art exhibits and the large video room, where various videos on the history of NSU, Motorcycles, the Second World War etc keep playing. The cool part about this theatre is you get to sit on some of the historic bikes and view the videos, along with excellent sound effects. My son was extremely thrilled to experience all this. Even as I sat on them, I could think of only one thing, " Man, are these comfortable to sit on", seems like we have lost the basic purpose of comfortable transportation with the current lot of motorcycles;.As is displayed, these are the steps in the evolution of the motorcycle, as put in a broad sense: Invention, Breakthrough, Freedom Last edited by hifisharu : 25th October 2021 at 16:13 .
TORQUE_AANJANEY BHPian

Join Date: Mar 2018 Location: Bangalore Posts: 58 Thanked: 382 Times

Re: Mahindra XUV700 Review Posting my feedback after taking the test drive of the XUV7OO AX7 Luxury Pack Diesel AT In Bangalore. It wasn't a long and detailed test drive (given I had to really tap a few shoulders to even get the vehicle at my place) and I had to be always conscious of the time I'm spending with the vehicle to allow it to move to its next stop within time. I actually forgot to check the odometer to see how many kms it has been driven. For reference I'm an ex-XUV5OO owner and a current Hexa XTA (2018) owner and who has taken a few spins in the new Tata Safari. They all belong to the same class, so probably it helps as comparisons should be mostly justified if not always.



1.) Ride Quality - With a non-nuclear family including senior citizens that travel together with me, ride comfort is of importance for me. I'm not the one putting a large SUV on the road just for sheer street cred, I have an actual use for the larger foot print vs other compact SUVs. XUV7OO rides well. It is leagues ahead of its predecessor XUV5OO, which was the one I would always avoid getting into immediately after having food, as it would make me feel sick in the stomach. No such issues with the 7OO. However, despite have FSD (M&M doesn't miss to state it is version 2.0 while other use version 1.0) and independent suspension all around, I cannot say it's far better than the new gen Safari. In fact I will need to drive the Safari back to back with XUV7OO to actually notice the differences. However since Safari is known for its good ride and XUV5OO was notorious for its ride quality, it's a huge progression for M&M. But -- Safari definitely has higher articulation than XUV and I guess is a tad bit firmed than XUV since it doesn't have the luxury of a FSD and a rudimentary panhard twist beam setup at the rear. But in comparison to the Hexa, there is just no comparison whatsoever. If on a scale of 10, if XUV7OO is a 7/10, Hexa is definitely a 10/10. While I could bottom out the XUV at several places, nothing like that happens with my Hexa and it is super silent (though I ride on the 19" wheels). XUV is also fairly silent and the thuds are heard in the cabin but it is not close to that magic carpet ride of the Hexa. Marketing mumbo-jumbo aside -- in siolation XUV7OO has a good ride but in comparison with the Hexa it pales. But it is no shame as many cars even in 40+ bracket will also get shamed by the Hexa.



2.) Engine and AT Gearbox - I feel like the XUV5OO, in the 7OO as well, the engine masks the deficiencies of the gearbox. And boy what an engine it is. No doubts better than the old Varicor400 on the Hexa and also better than the Fiat one in the Safari and the Harrier. While the AT gearbox on the XUV7OO (Asin) is better than the Safari twins (Hyundai), it is not more responsive than the Punch PowerGlide in the Hexa. I can say so because despite having a sloppier engine and a much higher kerb weight (1600 odd on the XUV vs 2300 odd on the Hexa = 700 kgs of difference), the way the Hexa gearbox drops the cogs to throttle inputs and keep the car moving fast, is commendable. I recently also drove the Gloster which has far more power and torque than the Hexa yet it felt way too slow than it (may be it won't under straight line outright acceleration of 0-100, but who drives like that in real world). But again as I said since you have a lower kerb weight, a more rev happy engine, and a decent enough AT on the XUV7OO, someone coming from Hexa wouldn't have reason to complain as it will be quicker even if the gearbox is not constantly shuffling between the gears. There is loads of grunt and pull lower down and enough in the mid range to keep drivers happy.



3.) Steering - Steering on XUV7OO is lighter than anything I have put my hands on on this size and class of vehicles, except may be a Hyundai. No feel but accurate enough and weighs up nicely as the speed increases. Needs to be tested more on curves, but whatever little I could test, it was light years lighter than the Hexa hydraulic unit. Despite being termed heavy I didn't find Safari steering heavy at parking speeds (probably coz my daily drive is a Hexa) but XUV7OO is noticeably lighter than Safari twins. More like Nexon. But I can say for sure it is not like a Ford (aches my heart again that they are no longer going to operate in India)



4.) NVH - NVH Levels are acceptable and rather good for the class of the vehicle. I felt Hexa, Safari and Harrier - all of them are a bit more damped than XUV7OO. But the engine note is least obtrusive in the XUV7OO. Mind you it's not silent like that of the Gloster, but it is much quieter than XUV5OO and doesn't become prominent unless you are in the higher rev range. Road noise was there on the MRF tyres and wind noise wasn't so much noticeable for me, probably because I couldn't take it over 100 kmph due to dearth of time and the road on which I was driving. Vibrations on steering and pedals at start is not much, but is also not non-existent.



5.) Cabin and interiors - The area where most cost cuttings have been made. Other than that gorgeous touchscreen and MID, there is barely much to write about. Buttons are damped but lack the premium feel. There are hard plastics all around and the car already had a squeak coming from behind the drivers seat (I suspect it was from the B Pillar). XUV5OO was also notorious for rattles and squeaks and the fact that M&M has used hard plastics everywhere and damping is not class leading, I feel a bit skeptical on how easily can the car be kept rattle / squeak free. For comparison after 30k kilometers and 3.5 years of ownership, the Hexa hasn't till date developed 1 rattle or squeak whatsoever. It is probably the best put together car of Tata. In comparison, I visited the service center almost every month to get the rattles and squeaks on my XUV5OO fixed. I hate rattles / squeaks and I cannot drive with them -- period. Plastic quality is average and I'm not a fan of the piano black finish on the buttons. Still much much better than its predecessor. But once large touchscreens become a norm, the ordinary cabin quality will start becoming an eye sore. In this department the Safari twins definitely feel, a segment above XUV7OO. The materials are top notch.



I must give a special mention to the sound system. That 12 speaker Sony sound system set on immersive 3D setting is - "mind blowing". I can safely say it beats the 10 speaker system in Hexa and the 9 speaker setups in Safari and Harrier, though not by much. But even if marginal, it is no doubt superior and the base is typical attacking base of Sony. I expected the same from Bose in Kia but the base there was more boomy and muddled whereas on Safari, Hexa and XUV7OO it is sharp with XUV being the finest of all. I will say it's better than Meridian system on the Range Rover Discovery Sport as well.



6.) Looks - I deliberately kept it last because it is subjective and controversial. If I keep the XUV value proposition aside, I will never buy a car with this design. It's not quirky, its simply overdone -- again. Safari and Harrier look so much better and well proportioned than the XUV7OO. The Hexa might give MPV vibes to few, but it has a design that has aged well and still looks imposing and exudes European class. XUV7OO design has not grown on me and if I decide to buy it, it will not be for its looks for sure.



ADAS, lane keep assist, blind view monitor, 360 camera -- all work fine. I enjy driving so while things like adaptive cruise control is appreciated, I'm too engrossed a driver to be heavily dependent upon them. Where driver reflexes cannot match the machine like ABS and ESP, I'm glad we are covered on that from almost every OEM now a days.



So here I conclude my brief on experience with XUV7OO test drive. I'm still not sure if I should be buying one. Family appreciated all the advancements from XUV5OO but I have no issues with the Hexa except that I sorely miss a screen where I can project Google Maps for navigation and the infamous 4 years itch that is approaching. But those who really need a 7 or a 5 seater, XUV7OO is not just a marketing offspring. It does pack a serious punch with a value quotient that puts all its rivals to shame. They may be better at a few things (and if 1 or more of them are a deal breaker for you, they just are and there is no reason to follow the crowd that is going gaga over XUV7OO and feel bad about it) but overall as a package XUV7OO is unbeatable. Last edited by TORQUE_AANJANEY : 26th October 2021 at 00:34 . Reason: Typo
openSUSE offers Leap, an LTS-style distribution that shares the code base SUSE Linux Enterprise (SLE), effectively making Leap a non-commercial version of its enterprise-grade operating system. Users that prefer more up-to-date free software can use its rolling release distribution Tumbleweed. Users can also use the Open Build Service. Moreover, the flexibility of openSUSE makes it easy to re-purpose for specific goals like running a web- or mail server.

Like most Linux distributions, openSUSE includes both a default graphical user interface (GUI) and a command line interface option. Users of openSUSE may choose several desktops environments GUIs like GNOME, KDE, Cinnamon, MATE, LXQt, Xfce. openSUSE supports thousands of software packages across the full range of free software / open source development.

The operating system is compatible with a wide variety of hardware on numerous instruction sets including ARM-based single-board computers. Examples include the Raspberry Pi 3 and Pine64 on the ARMv8 platform also known as aarch64, the Banana Pi and BeagleBoard on the ARMv7 instruction set, and the first iteration of the Raspberry Pi on the ARMv6 ISA. RISC-V, PowerPC (PPC64 and PPC64le) and S390 are supported as well.

The goals of the openSUSE project are:

Make openSUSE the easiest Linux distribution for anyone to obtain and the most widely used open source platform.

Provide an environment for open source collaboration that makes openSUSE the worlds best Linux distribution for new and experienced Linux users.

Dramatically simplify and open the development and packaging processes to make openSUSE the platform of choice for Linux hackers and application developers.

With the launch of the openSUSE project, openSUSE is now developed in an open model  public development builds, releases, and sources will be posted frequently here and you will have access to our Bugzilla database for defect reporting. You can also sign up on special interest mailing lists to make sure that you are always getting the most recent news on the openSUSE project and the openSUSE distribution.

openSUSE tools:

Open Build Service (OBS) Our build tool, building all of our packages as well as ones for SUSE Linux Enterprise, Arch, Debian, Fedora, Scientific Linux, RHEL, CentOS, Ubuntu, and more.

openQA Automated testing for *any* operating system, that can read the screen and control the test host the same way a user does.

YaST The best/only comprehensive Linux system configuration & installation tool.

Kiwi Create Linux images for deployment on real hardware, virtualisation, and now even container systems like Docker. Kiwi is the engine that builds the openSUSE release images.



What's New:

Complete release notes here.
What just happened? It's not just Bitcoin miners and well-known figures like Elon Musk that are embracing cryptocurrencies: entire countries and global financial institutions have followed suit. Mastercard announced today that it has partnered with digital wallet app Bakkt to make "innovative" crypto-based financial services available to banks and fintech companies around the world.

If we convert the marketing speak into plain English, this means that, through this partnership, banks could allow customers to use their platform to buy, hold, and trade various cryptos. Customers could also access bank-branded crypto debit and credit cards to spend their currencies.

All of this would be powered by Bakkt's under-the-hood wallet technology, though it's unclear how tightly integrated it will be from a UI/UX perspective. Will banks instruct users to download Bakkt's app, or will the tech essentially be white-labeled with their own branding and custom features? It's hard to say right now.

At any rate, beyond crypto trading and crypto cards, Mastercard's latest partnership also enables the use of crypto loyalty solutions for financial institutions. Put simply, loyalty points could be earned and spent in the form of cryptocurrency rather than the traditional, cash-oriented systems we see in most banks.

Whether that means end-users would get cryptocurrency directly in their wallets, or simply be able to spend points at locations that accept cryptocurrency (perhaps exclusively), again, we can't say just yet.

Though this news won't be beneficial to everybody, especially those that don't use Mastercard, it's yet another example of how the world is increasingly moving toward the widespread adoption of cryptocurrency. It's clear that cryptos like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and perhaps even Dogecoin (as ridiculous as that notion is), are here to stay, and will only become more popular as time goes on despite regulatory attempts to shut them down from countries like China.
In brief: Recent disruptions at a Micron Technology manufacturing plant in Taoyuan, Taiwan, could result in a price hike for DRAM chips, depending on how long it takes for the company to resume operations at the facility.

Memory prices could rise after a magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck Taiwan on Sunday, affecting production at several semiconductor fabs, including a Micron Technology manufacturing plant. Thankfully, the earthquake didnt result in any injuries or loss of life, and the company said in a statement that all team members in Taiwan are safe.

As a result of the earthquake, Micron had to stop Fab 11, which is located near Taoyuan. The company is currently trying to assess the impact on the facility to determine the appropriate measures needed to return it to full production capacity. Rival DRAM manufacturer Nanya says its production facility in the region is operating normally following the earthquake, although it does expect to see a small hit on the monthly output in the short term. TSMC temporarily evacuated its workers from a few facilities in northern Taiwan, but otherwise didn't see an impact on production.

Micron currently makes around nine percent of the worlds DRAM chips, and the Taoyuan plant is responsible for more than a third of the companys global production capacity. As is usually the case with factory shutdowns, DRAM prices could see an increase depending on how long it takes to examine the equipment, whether or not anything needs to be repaired or replaced, and how many wafers were damaged.

This could be a matter of days or it could stretch to several weeks, which is why investors are already pumping the company stock hoping to profit from the expected increase in DRAM prices. However, industry watchers as well as DRAM manufacturers predict a decrease in memory prices as most device manufacturers have enough stockpiles to last them for more than two months.

In related news, Micron is looking to build a $7 billion DRAM plant in Japan which could become operational in 2024. At the same time, the company will spend up to $150 billion on research and development as well as capital expenditures over the next 10 years, and is contemplating building a manufacturing plant in the US.
(Photo : Image from Unsplash Website) LifeLabs and Its Unionized Workers Come to Tentative 3-Year Agreement After Less Than 48 Hours from Legal Strike Position

LifeLabs and its own unionized workers have now come to a whole tentative three-year contract agreement. This was done just less than 48 hours after the said union had entered an actual legal strike position.

Union Workers and LifeLabs

While unions amongst workers are meant to help the workers get better environments and defend them, there are instances where unionizing has not been able to obtain positive results. With LifeLabs, however, a contract agreement was finally made after just 48 hours of the legal strike position.

According to GlobalNews.CA, the BC General Employees Union started job action just recently and it consisted of an overtime ban as well as work-to-rule campaign. Both sides had returned to the bargaining table during the same evening as the job action.

BCGEU on Work-to-Rule Campaign

As of the moment, the details of what happened during the particular sitdown at the bargaining table has yet to be unveiled. The union notes that the agreement will be present to members soon who will still need to take a vote in order to ratify it.

The BCGEU notes that overtime ban as well as work-to-rule campaign will be suspended until the members are finally able to vote. This would mean a stalemate for both parties until members of the union would either accept or deny the final agreement.

Temporary Agreement with BCGEU

As of the moment, both parties have only reached a temporary agreement which will then be potentially changed depending on what the decision of the union would be. As per the details on what the union is voting for, not a lot of information was provided.

The union, however, notes that wages and benefits were the key points of the current dispute. The BCGEU now represents a whopping 1,550 LifeLab employees. They have all stated that they have been without a contract ever since March 2021.

What is LifeLabs?

For those that are unaware, LifeLabs is considered the largest provider of medical laboratory services to the province and was also reportedly deemed an essential service by the official BC Labor Relations Board as the contract dispute started to escalate. As per GlobalNews.CA, the story contained files from the Canadian Press.

According to the article by TimesColonist, the union was reportedly in a legal strike position just recently after it had issued a 72-hour strike notice before. The whole event reportedly held a rally with around 200 different union members all attending in Burnaby in order to promote their position together.

Read Also: Brazil's President Accused of Crimes Against Humanity, Other Crimes Over COVID Response

Vaccine Mandates

In other news, the vaccine mandate is now starting to stretch into multiple different sectors of business. Adobe announced that its employees should get vaccinated before December 8, 2021 or they will then be placed on unpaid leave.

Other companies, however, like Apple, will require unvaccinated employees to get daily COVID-19 tests. This would happen every time they report to work.

Related Article: Olive Launches New Universal Marketplace, Creates Key Distribution Channel for Industry Pioneers

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Written by Urian B.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Virtual care will still be preferred by both doctors and patients in Canada long after the pandemic ends.

According to Global News, the virtual care trend is being preferred by patients because of the convenience it affords them. They're saying that never having to leave the safety of their own homes has given them peace of mind.

To them, it is more preferable to sit on their own couches than in a clinic or hospital waiting room, which they say can be more stressful because of the presence of other people who are sick.

As for doctors, they're likely pushing for the continuation of both in-person and virtual care, not choosing one over the other.

This is the sentiment of the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Canadian Ministry of Health, and the Chief Medical Officer of health in the city of Ontario.

In an open letter sent to family doctors recently, the authorities are advising healthcare groups to set a limit on just how much healthcare assistance virtual care can provide. They've also said that it can't really match the quality of an in-person checkup.

As a result, a few healthcare authorities in Canada have been setting new standards of practice for offering virtual care.

Among them is the College of Physicians & Surgeons of Manitoba (CPSM), who is implementing a new standard for next month.

Every CPSM member is now mandated to include "timely in-person care" when the patient requests for it, or if the clinical findings suggest it is needed. They further stated that it is "not acceptable" to keep everything virtual, reinforcing the need to balance the two.

Read also: Virtual Care App Babyscripts for Prenatal, Postpartum Services Raises $12 Million in New Capital

Is Virtual Care Even Effective?

Yes, it is. Specifically in the throes of the global pandemic, the benefits of practicing telehealth can never be understated.

Aside from the overall convenience and helping people save money, telehealth can also be administered to people who have mobility issues, as well as those who might live in remote areas where access to healthcare is very limited, writes Harvard University.

However, the downsides to telehealth/virtual care are also numerous. For instance, there are some check-ups that simply cannot be performed accurately without an in-person visit, like blood work and imaging.

Another issue with virtual care is the lack of recognition by insurance providers. While some of them have been covering costs during the pandemic, it's still largely out-of-pocket for most people.

Looking Ahead

Virtual care is still in its infancy. It started off as a much-needed adaptation due to the coronavirus pandemic, and not specifically as an established healthcare medium. As such, it can still improve along the way.

One of the best recent examples of telehealth improvements is 9am.health Virtual Clinic, whose services focus on helping pre-diabetic and type 2 diabetic patients.

They're allowing people to have access to online prescriptions, at-home lab tests, and even direct access to a care team should they need it. If virtual care is to improve by leaps and bounds in the future, this could be a good benchmark to follow.

Related: Five Leading Health-Based Cryptocurrencies: How They Work

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Written by RJ Pierce

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Blue Origin wants to be the first privately owned company to build their own space station.

The company recently announced their plans to build the space station, which they call Orbital Reef, writes Phys.org. According to Blue Origin, Orbital Reef is designed to house 10 people and scheduled to launch during the second half of the 2020s.

But unlike the International Space Station, however, it won't be just used for scientific experiments.

A Blue Origin press statement says that the space station is designed to be a so-called "mixed-use business park" intended to support activities such as scientific research and manufacturing in tandem.

Aside from that, Orbital Reef is also planned to be offered to paying tourists as an "exotic" hospitality destination, reports CNBC.

As per Space.com, Blue Origin is partnering up with Sierra Space, Boeing, and other aerospace companies to bring the project to life. Here is an official announcement video from the company:

Official specs reveal that Orbital Reef will be sitting slightly above the ISS at an altitude of 310 miles above the Earth's surface. From there, the crew members of the space station can see as much as 32 sunrises and sunsets in a day.

Read also: ISS Food Is Not All Bland, Says French Astronaut; But How Exactly Is Food Packed For Outer Space?

Blue Origin Will Have To Overcome Several Hurdles

For Jeff Bezos and Blue Origin to achieve their plans, however, they'll have to overcome a few recent mishaps concerning the company.

One incident involves allegations that Blue Origin has major safety issues. A total of 21 employees have claimed that Jeff Bezos' firm has deliberately ignored safety concerns due to their intense focus on leading the private space race.

This could be largely due to Bezos' venture still playing second-fiddle to Elon Musk's SpaceX, which has been landing several multi-billion-dollar contracts to help the likes of NASA with their future missions.

Aside from that, the company has also suffered from a massive brain drain. Shortly after Jeff Bezos himself went to space, several top employees, including their best engineers, left Blue Origin for mostly undisclosed reasons.

They did, however, reveal a few of their reasons for leaving such as frustration with executive leadership, as well as slow bureaucracy.

If Bezos and Blue Origin really want to get Orbital Reef operational within their planned time frame, they'll have to source new top talent and tackle those safety allegations fast.

Private Space Station Race

With the ISS inching ever closer to retirement, Blue Origin's Orbital Reef is going to be the among first official replacements for it. The launch window of the private space station is right within the ISS' retirement wheelhouse, which is the late 2020s.

Another space company called Nanoracks, who's working with Lockheed Martin and Voyager Space, will serve as a direct competitor to Blue Origin in the private space station race. Theirs will be called Starlab, which is scheduled to be operational by 2027.

Related: Blue Origin Memes: Elon Musk Agrees with Entries Throwing Shades at Space Company Amidst Lawsuit

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Written by RJ Pierce

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tesla FSD has released its beta version 10.3.1 over the weekend, particularly last Sunday, after its supposed earlier arrival to the systems of users. The delay has Elon Musk apologizing to the public, saying it was due to an issue that was overlooked by the "QA fleet" or the quality assurance team in the company, as cars are constantly used by drivers.

Elon Musk Apologizes for Tesla FSD Beta 10.3.1 Late Release

The Tesla CEO has taken the opportunity of the clean energy company's release of the latest FSD Beta version to apologize for the upgrade and downgrade occurrence that happened in the company. Musk said that the issue was the power saving mode within the FSD feature that malfunctioned and has made a domino effect to other of its features.

The quality assurance team has overlooked the feature of the company and was not able to see its problems before its release, hence the arrival of a system that still has issues or errors. Rest assured that Tesla has already resolved this, says Musk, the reason for the version to now be called FSD Beta 10.3.1.

Read Also: Lucid Motors Vs. Tesla: CEO's Plans That Could Beat Elon Musk-Better EV Than Model S, Largest SPAC Deal, and More!

Id like to express appreciation to Tesla Autopilot engineering & QA for working round the clock all weekend to resolve the problem  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) October 25, 2021

Tesla FSD 10.3.1: Late Release is Here to Bring Features

The FSD Beta version 10.3.1. is here to bring the latest features from the company, and it is with the arrival of a better integration to the traffic, as well as adding more users to the feature. The batch of added users is at ~1,000 per update, which is why it still focuses on the perfect 100/100 score for the safety test of the FSD.

Soon it would add lower safety scores to be integrated to all vehicles.

Tesla FSD Beta Testing for Drivers

Over the weekend, Tesla has been faced with a lot of issues surrounding the release of the Tesla FSD Beta 10.3 version, as it was faced with issues on its self-driving feature, particularly on red lights. The system has got the drivers and their cars being downgraded to Beta 10.2 for safety concerns, as the car saw its issues with the feature.

However, now the issue has been resolved, and people are back to receiving the upgrades late Sunday, with some seeing it early Monday intended for their vehicles, but now going with the version 10.3.1. This is amidst the news that Tesla and its Model 3 and Model Y cars are facing a price hike that would be the second time in succession.

Nevertheless, the current upgrade now is to make the vehicle safer and better, focused on its integration to the electric vehicles of the company that is applicable to use it. The drivers are still faced with the strict compliance of the company having a one-strike policy on the improper use of the FSD, only having a warning before removing it.

Related Article: Tesla FSD Beta: Drivers Get Only 1 Warning for Improper Use Before Company Removes Feature, Elon Musk Confirms

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Written by Isaiah Richard

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tesla teases its humanoid robot as it taps into the engineering skills of the Chinese people as it launches its Shanghai Research and Development Center, along with the Shanghai Gigafactory Data Center.

As per the latest report of Bloomberg, the new facility in China is the first research and development center of the American EV giant outside of the United States. On top of that, Tesla also announced that it has also completed its data center in the overseas country.

The Elon Musk-led EV maker also said that the two new facilities in Shanghai will start operations soon.

Previously, Tesla only had a manufacturing facility in the flesh of the Gigafactory in Shanghai, which taps on the manufacturing skills of the Chinese.

However, this time around, with the first overseas research and development center, the automaker is expanding in the Asian nation to tap on their engineering skills as well.

Tesla Humanoid Robot Teased

According to the report by Electrek, Tesla included a clip of its upcoming humanoid robot as it concludes its announcement of the completion of the new Shanghai facilities.

Elon Musk first announced Tesla's humanoid robot last Aug. 22, noting that it will be launching sometime in 2022.

The Tesla CEO further said that the "Tesla Bot" is meant to do mundane, dangerous, and repetitive tasks of humans that some folks do despite doing.

A few days after the announcement of the humanoid robot, Tesla posted multiple job listings for the Tesla Bot on its career page, including a mechanical engineer and a robotics architect.

However, these career opportunities are based in Austin, Texas.

Nevertheless, the inclusion of the humanoid robot, along with the launch of the new engineering facility of Tesla in China, still raised speculations that its team in the Asian country could also contribute to its development. But the EV firm has yet to announce any confirmation.

Tesla Shanghai Facility Taps into Chinese Engineering Talent

The EV firm first announced the newly completed research and development center of Tesla in the Asian country way back on Jan. 19, 2020, Electrek previously reported.

During that time, the carmaker announced that the new Shanghai facility will house a design studio for future EV developments.

In fact, after its initial announcement, Tesla already opened submissions for the design of its Chinese-made electric vehicle. It was then followed by a hiring program for the upcoming facility.

Read Also: Elon Musk Commends AMD for Efforts Amidst Chip Shortage, ROI in Tesla Rising Despite Factories Not at Full Capacity

Tesla Shanghai Research and Development Center

The head of software of Tesla, David Lau, spoke during the announcement of the new Shanghai facility, saying that the Gigafactory already built a growing engineering team.

And, with the introduction of the new facility in Shanghai, the Chinese engineering team could soon contribute to the design and other aspects of the future Tesla vehicles.

Related Article: Tesla Bot Was Created by Elon Musk to Ensure Safety in All Robots, Present a Good AI to the World

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Written by Teejay Boris

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Panasonic is creating an electric vehicle battery that would have more energy to store on its power cells, and it is intended for Tesla's EVs, something that has been a known collaboration by many. However, this time, it would be the better battery, something that the company would have familiarity over, as it is the proposed 4680 batteries for long-range.

Panasonic: Creating a New Battery for Tesla with More Energy Storage

Panasonic is reportedly creating a new power cell for Tesla electric vehicles, and it boasts of the batteries to have more energy storage for the range and longevity of these power sources. Each battery is small, but when put together into a single pack, it would create enough power to transport a car from one place to another, with sufficient range in terms of miles.

The report says that the Japanese tech maker does not have plans to make the relatively cheaper power cells that Tesla has used in China, the LFP or Lithium, Iron, and Phosphate chemistry. The company seems to have focused itself on its previous release of the 4680 batteries that have LiOn or Lithium-Ion, the traditional make of these power cells.

Read Also: Elon Musk Calls Dogecoin the 'People's Crypto,' With Owners from Tesla, SpaceX's Production

Tesla Batteries: Panasonic is its Previous Partner for the 4680

The previously created battery for Tesla was the 4680 batteries from Panasonic, something which was said to start its venture in late 2021 for its creation and availability to the vehicles. However, there have been early versions of the power cells that have been hooked up for Tesla EVs that have already powered the cars up to now.

The Battery Day 2020 has unveiled these 4680 Batteries to be the next big thing on Tesla, but it has not yet been applied to all of its models, and its production. There still has been plenty of manufacturers for the batteries of the EV, and not to mention, the switch of Tesla China to the LFP battery chemistry, something that the Japanese tech maker has said it would not venture.

Tesla Batteries Through the Years

The batteries of the electric vehicles of Tesla have changed throughout the years, and it initially started with the Li-On chemistry that made up 18650 batteries on a pack. The company also unveiled its supposed "million-mile" power pack that has the capabilities of running a million miles before it needs changing, and that is a significant amount of range.

This only shows that Tesla is looking at optimizing its EV use, and it starts with the very basic need of an electric vehicle, and it is power storage within its body. Power calls make this possible, and every battery of the company has been carefully studied and created for its integration on the electric vehicle of the company.

Related Article: Tesla FSD Beta 10.3.1: Weekend Release Has Elon Musk Apologizing for Delay After Issues from QA Fleet

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
SpaceX is set to launch the Crew-3 mission on Halloween. The Crew-3 mission aims to bring four astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS).

The Crew-3 mission is set to launch from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The launch time is currently set at 12:10 a.m. EDT.

The four crew members of the mission will be boarding a Crew Dragon capsule that has been named Endurance. SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket will launch the mission to space.

SpaceX's Crew-3 Mission Launch

SpaceX is set to launch the Crew-3 mission to the International Space Station on Halloween.

According to a report by Space, the Crew-3 mission launch is currently scheduled to take place at 2:21 a.m. on October 31. The launch site is the Kennedy Space Center of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which is located in Florida.

The Crew-3 is expected to dock at the ISS on November 1 at 12:10 a.m. EDT.

The Space report has pointed out that these details are "subject to change for weather or technical reasons."

The Crew-3 Mission

The goal of the SpaceX Crew-3 mission is to bring four astronauts to the ISS. Three of these astronauts are NASA astronauts, while the fourth crew member is an astronaut from the European Space Agency (ESA).

The NASA astronauts are Kayla Barron, Raja Charri, and Tom Marshburn, who will serve as the flight's mission specialist, mission commander, and pilot, respectively. ESA astronaut Matthias Maurer is the fourth passenger on the flight.

The four astronauts will be boarding a Crew Dragon capsule, which they have named Endurance. It will be launched to space by SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket.

The Crew-3 mission crew members are expected to stay at the ISS for six months. They will also be carrying scientific gear with them during the flight, including human research and rodent research.

The Crew-3 mission is SpaceX's first crewed flight since the success of its Inspiration4 mission. The Inspiration 4 mission, which launched on September 15, similarly had four members on its crew.

It made history as the first all-civilian crewed flight to space. Two of its passengers also made history during the flight. Haley Arceneaux is the first person with prosthetics to ever fly to space, while Sian Proctor is the first black female spacecraft pilot in history.

Related Article: SpaceX's Newest Crew Dragon Capsule is Named Endurance

How to Watch the Crew-3 Launch

Interested to watch the launch and even the docking of SpaceX's Crew-3 mission? According to the report by Space, interested viewers can watch these events take place on NASA's app and website, NASA Television, and the space agency's YouTube channel and social media accounts.

Space will also have its own webcast of the launch of the Crew-3 mission on its official website.

You can register for NASA's launch event here.

Also Read: NASA Transfers Boeing Starliner Mission Astronauts to SpaceX's Crew-5 Amid Flight Delays-Here's Why

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Written by Isabella James

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Tesla Motors has now surpassed an insane $1 trillion in total market value, making it only the fifth ever American company to do so.

According to the BBC, Tesla's shares increased by roughly 16.2% after striking a deal with Hertz, a car rental company to whom they're contracted to sell a total of 100,000 EVs.

Hertz ordered a fleet of Tesla Model 3s with a total value of $4.2 billion. The company plans to have their EV fleet ready for renters by late next year, as per a report by CNBC:

After the deal with Hertz, Tesla Motors follows Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, and Alphabet (the owner of Google) to be the first American companies to reach $1 trillion in market value.

Tesla's current market value, however, is still lagging behind the first four companies to reach the milestone. According to CNN, they're still worth less than half of Apple ($2.5 trillion) and Microsoft ($2.3 trillion).

This milestone, however, was achieved in record time. Tesla is now the second-fastest company to reach the trillion-dollar mark, taking over 11 years to surpass it since going public in 2010.

This puts Elon Musk's EV venture in second place behind Zuckerberg's social media empire, which reached $1 trillion in just 9 years.

Read also: Tesla Model Y Bodies With Two Giant Single Castings Now in Works! Here are Its Benefits

Is Demand For EVs Increasing At A Rapid-Enough Pace For This?

The short answer is yes. While electric vehicles used to be very exclusive, they're slowly becoming more mainstream.

BusinessWire predicts that the global market for EVs is expected to grow rapidly until 2030, with electric passenger cars being the fastest-growing component of the EV market.

This is already evident in the Hertz-Tesla Motors deal, which will allow more people to experience electric vehicles even if they don't own one themselves.

Furthermore, a lot of countries and major cities around the world are improving their infrastructure to better deal with the influx of electric vehicles.

A perfect example is New York, which has added more charging stations around the city to further encourage residents to buy EVs instead of gas-powered cars.

These chargers will allow New Yorkers to charge their electric vehicles for $2.50 an hour during daytime, and $1 an hour overnight. Overall, NYC's EV infrastructure now boasts over 1,600 chargers.

MASSIVE Payday For Tesla Motors' Elon Musk

With his company surpassing $1 trillion in market value, Elon Musk is just going to get even richer.

Musk, who owns a 23% stake in the company, will now be worth an astronomical $230 billion owing to Tesla Motors' stock closing at a record $1.024.86 per stock, reports Reuters.

Furthermore, his stake also includes options such as buying shares at a massive discount whenever his company hits a series of market milestones. In other words, Elon Musk's fortune is just going to keep growing alongside the increase in demand for electric vehicles.

As of this writing, the Tesla founder and CEO's projected net worth puts him above bitter Big Tech rival and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who is currently worth $191.7 billion according to Business Insider.

Related: Lucid Motors Vs. Tesla: CEO's Plans That Could Beat Elon Musk-Better EV Than Model S, Largest SPAC Deal, and More!

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
A journalist has said that his iPhone was hacked by someone who simply sent him a text message.

The journalist, Ben Hubbard, says that he never clicked anything when he received the message. According to a spyware research institute he worked with, his phone was actually hacked twice.

Hubbard has said that Saudi Arabia may be behind the hacking of his iPhone. At least one of the hacking attempts is said to have been done using the Pegasus spyware.

Journalist's iPhone was Hacked

The iPhone of journalist Ben Hubbard is said to have been hacked twice, according to his own report for The New York Times.

Per a separate report by Futurism, Hubbard says, "a hacker was able to access his iPhone after sending him a text message - even though he never clicked anything."

According to Hubbard, he worked with a spyware research institute called Citizen Lab to find out when he was hacked, who hacked his iPhone, and if any information stored in the device had been stolen.

Citizen Lab eventually discovered that he had been hacked twice. The first hacking attempt happened in 2020, and the other happened just this year. Hubbard's iPhone had been hacked with "so-called 'zero-click' exploits, which allowed the hacker to get inside my phone without my clicking on any links."

Pegasus Spyware and Saudi Arabia

The two hacking attempts in 2020 and 2021 are not the only attempts to hack Hubbard's phone. Two hacking attempts were made to his phone in 2018. One hacking attempt involved a text message, and the other involved a Whatsapp message. Neither attempts were successful.

According to his report for The New York Times, a senior fellow at Citizen Labs named Bill Marczak said "he had 'high confidence' that Pegasus had been used all four times."

The Pegasus being referred to is a software called the Pegasus spyware. Per the report by Futurism, the Pegasus was created by an Israeli developer called NSO Group. NSO Group has repeatedly denied that Pegasus is being used to hack phones.

Related Article: Pegasus Spyware Forced French President Emmanuel Macron to Let Go of His iPhone

Hubbard has claimed in his report that the 2018 hacking attempts were launched by Saudi Arabia. "It appeared that Saudi Arabia had launched the attacks because they came from servers run by an operator who had previously targeted a number of Saudi activists," Hubbard said.

Hubbard is a journalist who covers the Middle East and has even published a book last year on Saudi Arabia's ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

One of the text messages from 2018, according to his report, was sent using Pegasus. The report also mentions that the NSO Group canceled its contracts with Saudi Arabia in 2018 after the killing of writer Jamal Khashoggi.

The NSO Group was back in business with the kingdom a year later, adding restrictions on its contract pertaining to the use of Pegasus.

Also Read: Apple Issues Emergency Security Update as Pegasus Spyware from Israel-Based NGO Group is On the Loose

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Lion Electric Company announced that it had received a conditional purchase order (PO) for electric school buses from Student Transportation of Canada. The parent firm of STC is under the pension fund manager of Quebec.

At the moment, there are no specifications about the value of the order. Apart from that, the conditional status will depend on the "satisfactory" non-repayable grants from the Zero Emission Public Transit Fund of the country.

Lion Electric Brings Electric Buses to North America

According to a report by Electrek on Monday, Oct.25, Lion Electric has been helping many countries to transition into using zero-emission vehicles. The EV manufacturer saw some success in its business over the past five years.

This year, 10 Lion C electric buses have been delivered to a school district in California. Driven by green drive, many North American countries have been looking forward to adopting eco-friendly electric buses. This time, the Canadian government could likely receive 1,000 school e-buses if the company gets a green light.

If the PO is approved, Canada will be benefiting from the huge transition for its new-age vehicles.

What Happens if Lion Electric PO Gets Approval?

Lion Electric Company stated in a press release that POs for the school buses had arrived earlier this week.

According to Global News, the investment will cover $2.75 billion in spendings which would scale for five years. This will be accomplished to boost the electrification for both school and public vehicles.

At the time, STC had applied for the purchase order. It would still take some time before it gets approval for 1,000 electric school buses from Lion Electric.

Once the orders are approved, the heavy-duty vehicle supplier would become the largest electric school bus operator in North America. According to Lion Electric CEO Marc Bedard, this move is a huge leap for the company.

"We applaud STC for its leadership and vision to accelerate the deployment of all-electric school buses in Canada, and we thank them for trusting Lion with such an important transition.," Bedard said.

Bedard also added that the deployment of all-electric school buses in the country would place the country as a leader of e-transportation as part of ZETF's innovative programs.

Lion Electric believes that the upcoming 1,000 vehicles would contribute to the eradication of the ongoing greenhouse problems in the country. Roughly 23,000 tons of harmful gas emissions per year would be eliminated besides the noise pollution in the country.

It is expected that the electric buses will start next year and push through in Q1 2026 if the grant is approved.

Currently, Lion Electric is now preparing to build its large electric vehicle plant in the United States. The company anticipates that it will be finished by 2022.

Read Also: Tesla Invests Another $3.1 Million for the Development of EV Batteries in Canada--Here Are its Goals

Panasonic to Develop Tesla EV Batteries

Recently, we reported that Panasonic is creating batteries for Tesla's electric vehicles. The collaboration of the two companies will bring more energy storage than the usual battery.

Elsewhere, a solid-state battery with pure silicon anode is reportedly bringing more promising perks to electric vehicles. According to the report, it would offer cheaper costs but higher energies to the EVs.

Related Article: Lion Electric Company's Vehicle-to-Grid e-School Bus Deployment Successful in New York-Impressive Range with 155 mi. for 72 Passengers!

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Written by Joseph Henry

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Getty Images )

KT currently claims that they were not attacked by a DDoS attack but instead it was a routing error that actually caused the outage. The company is now under investigation by the South Korea IT ministry.

South Korean Telco KT

According to ZDNet, South Korean telco KT has reportedly said its own network outage that recently happened was actually caused by an internal router issue. This then backtracked on its very own initial claim that the whole incident was actually the result of a large-scale distributed denial-of-service attack otherwise known as a DDoS attack.

In the reported statement, the telco actually initially stated it first suspected an actual DDoS attack that was due to traffic overload. After it had scrutinized the matter, however, it was able to find that the cause was actually a routing error.

Investigation Into Cybercriminal Activity

The authorities are now extremely on the lookout for cyberattacks. Just recently, hackers were found to attack YouTube channels in order to livestream crypto selling the accounts for up to $4,000. The famed colonial pipeline hackers, REvil ransomware group, threatened Apple but then mysteriously deleted its documents and extortion threats.

KT also added that it would cooperate along with the government in order to investigate the whole cause. The telco, as of the moment, is yet to announce what actually caused the routing error initially and how it then led to the outage, which is also expected to be announced some time soon.

KT Nationwide Outage

KT's nationwide network actually suffered an outage just recently for a whopping 40 minutes around 11AM local time. The telco's subscribers were reportedly unable to use their own credit cards, access apps, or trade stocks. Some large websites were also shut down during the said period.

South Korean police, which is reportedly also investigating the matter, noted that it could not really find any circumstances that would indicate there was really an external cyber attack in its own initial investigations. The matter is almost cleared but there is still another investigation going on.

Read Also: Ransomware Group Linked to Colonial Pipeline Impersonates a Legit Company to Recruit Potentially Talented Employees

Ministry of Science and ICT Investigates

It was noted that the Ministry of Science and ICT is also still conducting its very own investigations on the matter. The ministry also reportedly ordered KT to investigate the whole extent of the damage that was caused to customers by the particular outage.

An article by Reuters reports that KT said quite earlier that it had suspected a DDoS attack that brought down the network while the police stated that they were still investigating. KT gave a statement noting they initially assumed it was actually a DDoS attack which was due to traffic overload.

After looking closely, however, they found that it was actually a routing error. It was stated that services were actually restored more than over an hour after the whole outage started, as per the Ministry of Science and ICT.

Related Article: REvil Ransomware Claims Group is Ending Activity | Researchers Skeptical About Latest Shut Down

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Written by Urian B.

 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
Some space scientists claim that Earth's rotation is becoming slower. If you have already watched "The Core" and other sci-fi movies, then you already know that those titles showed that the planet would suffer from various natural disasters if it slows or stops rotating.

Related Article: NASA: Exoplanet Outside Milky Way Spotted by Chandra X-Ray and ESA, Located in Messier 51

A planet's rotation is an important activity since it allows the heavenly body to maintain its current state. However, there are some chances that a planet's rotation would stop, especially if some heavy activities are in the core.

Once this happens, NASA explained that some lands and bodies of water would change across the globe, which could really affect humanity in the long run.

"Anything that moves mass closer to the Earth's axis speeds its rotation up, and moving mass away from the axis slows it down," said Richard Gross, NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory expert.

Space Scientists Claim Earth's Rotation Becomes Slower?

According to Express UK's latest report, space scientists currently use the so-called atomic clocks, which allow them to set the UTC (Universal Coordinated Time).

Also Read: SpaceX's Crew-3 Mission Launch: How to Watch on Halloween

Thanks to these efficient clocks, various experts can measure the accurate time of Earth through the movement of atoms' electrons. In 2020, some researchers discovered that the planet's rotation became faster, forcing them to adjust the Earth's usual second.

However, a new database showed that the Earth has slowed down between July 1 until Sept. 30 by up to 0.5 milliseconds. Now, they said that it is constantly slowing down in the first half of 2021.

Aside from Earth, space experts are also observing and making essential space activities to study the universe. In other news, a young baby exoplanet called 2M0437b was discovered.

On the other hand, various researchers are now suggesting the use of the PI Method to destroy asteroids that pass near Earth.

Why Earth's Rotation is Slowing Down?

Science Alert reported that the Earth's rotation could be affected by force exerted by the moon. If the gravitational pull of the planet's natural satellite is too strong, there's a high chance that it would rotate slower than usual.

On the other hand, earthquakes are the most common causes of a slower Earth rotation since these natural activities change the planet's mass arrangement. Right now, experts haven't issued a strong warning about the slower rotation of the planet.

For more news updates about Earth and other related space topics, always keep your tabs open here at TechTimes.

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
(Photo : Image from Unsplash Website) Flytrex Drone Food Delivery Service Expands to Holly Springs, North Carolina

A drone delivery company known as Flytrex is now expected to expand its drone delivery service to Holly Springs, North Carolina. It was stated that the company has actually started delivering food coming from restaurants that are owned by Brinker International, which would include Chili's, Maggiano's Little Italy, and It's Just Wings.

Flytrex Drone Food Delivery Service

According to the story by ZDNet, Flytrex noted that the effort was actually part of a partnership that was made between Causey Aviation Unmanned, the known Federal Aviation Administration, The Town of Holly Springs, the North Carolina Department of Transportation, and Kite Realty Group Trust.

The drone company noted that it was delivering food from the town center of Holly Springs to both backyards as well as front yards in the Forest Springs neighborhood. It was noted that the service is only for dozens of different households that opted into it.

CEO Yariv Bash Gives Statement

CEO of Flytrex, the CEO of Yariv Bash noted that they were eager to demonstrate the benefits of drone delivery to different residents and businesses in North Carolina. Bash gave a statement noting that they are soaring into a brand new age in which actual smart cities can harness the immense power of drones to maximize efficiency and feed consumers' growing appetite for on-demand deliveries.

This is all while reducing their carbon footprint. Through the use of the Flytrex app, users can actually order food and even track the status of their own order. The food is now lowered from a wire into back or even front yards, and there are already some plans to expand the service directly over the next few months.

Testing Delivery Drones

Mayor Dick Sears of Holly Springs noted that town residents were excited to see how the whole drone delivery service works and added that people of the town pride themselves on embracing innovations. It was said that Holly Springs already has about 25,000 residents. A drone delivery research got major funding after China's Meituan was able to secure $10 billion.

Flytrex is known to be part of one of the nine different programs across the US that the FAA chooses to test out commercial drone use when it comes to National Air Space. North Carolina reportedly has been a hub for drone testing, particularly for those seeing whether drone deliveries of food and packages are viable.

Read Also: Tesla Humanoid Robot Teased as it Taps into Chinese Engineering Skills with New Shanghai Facility

Flytrex in North Carolina

Flytrex noted that Holly Springs had become the third location in North Carolina where they officially operate. In September 2020, they started conducting deliveries of groceries, household items, and even food in Fayetteville. A drone was also used to deliver lungs for transplant from hospital to the hospital while taking just six minutes to complete the delivery.

They then decided to expand the deliveries into the town of Raeford, which is located close to Fayetteville. They have then conducted thousands of different deliveries and were also approved by the FAA in order to expand their operation in North Carolina in April 2021.

Related Article: China's Top Aerospace University Explodes, Kills 2, and Injures 9

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 2021 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.
News

Madisonville hosts Indian celebration

Photos by Aleigha Hughes Guests at Saturday nights Navratri and Diwali celebration at the Ballard Convention Center in Madisonville take part in the dandiya, a traditional Indian dance that makes use of colorful dress and musical sticks. Aleigha Hughes Madisonville cardiology specialist Dr. Deepak Kapadia, right, and his wife, Maya, dance with a young festival goer during the first-ever Navratri and Diwali Celebration held on Saturday. Aleigha Hughes Dr. Deepak Kapadia, left, teaches Madisonville Mayor Kevin Cotton a few steps of the dandiya during the dance on Saturday night. kevin and kapadia.JPG Photos by Aleigha Hughes In India, the annual Diwali and Navrati festivals are celebrated with food and dance. After eating a meal catered by a local Indian family, those in attendance spent the rest of the night on the dance floor.

Imagine leaving your home, moving halfway around the world and having to leave everything you know and love about your homeland behind. For dozens of Hopkins County residents, that is exactly what happened., which is how Madisonville came to host one of the most unique cultural events to ever grace the city on Saturday night when the Ballard Convention Center in Madisonville played host to a combined Navratri and Diwali celebration.

According to Dr. Deepak Kapadia, MD, a Cardiology Specialist who has served Hopkins County for more than twenty years, Navrati and Diwali are two of the most important festivals of the Hindu people of India, his homeland. Both take place in the Autumn of the year, so when organizers began planning an event for Madisonville, they decided to combined those celebrations into a huge one-day event, which ended up drawing more than 250 guests to Madisonville.

In India, Navaratri is a nine day festival, Kapadia said. The people fast all day, then worship the devine mothers at night with food and dance.

The three divine mothers, according to Hindu tradition, represent knowledge, wealth and the destruction of evil. Each divine mother has three days of the celebration dedicated in her honor.

On the tenth day you rejoice, said Kapadia.

In India, Navaratri was held from Oct. 7 through Oct. 14. Here in the U.S., those wishing to celebrate their Indian heritage had to make adjustments. But that didnt prevent him from celebrating during that period. He said that he did fast each day during the traditional Navaratri period, and while he did pray at night, he didnt do a lot of late night dancing.

In India, they dance every night during the festival because they dont have to work the next day, Kapadia joked. I had to go the the hospital every morning!

The second part of the event, Diwali, Dr. Kapadia said for Hindus could most closely be described as Christmas to Americans. This festival of lights it held on November 4 each year and signifies the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated with candles, fireworks, home decorations, shopping and the giving of gifts.

He said that the celebrations can be held at home, and most families do so, but back in India these special festivals are about more than just celebrating at home. They are about getting together not just with family and close friends, but the entire community. So for organizers, even though they had to combine ten nights and eleven days into one Saturday afternoon event, having the chance to allow everyone to gather together in one place made all the difference.

I tried to have this 20 years ago, but back then we only had four Indian families in Madisonville, Kapadia said. It was nothing like this. We had it at the National Guard Armory and we only had around 50 guests. This year, for a small town, I think weve done really well.

As Navaratri and Diwali are meant to be celebrated with the entire community, organizers reached out to Madisonville mayor Kevin Cotton, who spent last week traveling with the Pennyrile Area Development District (PADD). Although he was scheduled to help open the ceremonies at 5 p.m. on Saturday, his airline had other ideas. Instead of being there for the beginning, he arrived at 11 p.m., just an hour before the scheduled end of the celebration. After being introduced to the crowd, Cotton was pulled onto the dance floor and made a part of the event.

As you could tell, I cant dance very well, Cotton said to festival goers. But I am excited and honored to be able to be here with you tonight.

After a few minutes on the dance floor, the mayor had to take a break to catch his breath.

Its exciting that we can have this kind of cultural celebration in our community, Cotton said. It brought in people from all over the region to Madisonville., and we have over 30 families represented here tongiht that own businesses in Hopkins County. It is just an honor to be able to help them all celebrate.

Navaratri and Diwali are about new beginings, and right now there are a lot of new things to be excited about in Hopkins County and Madisonville, and I hope we will be blessed with many new business ventures in the next year.

Kapadia said his dream is to see the celebration become a yearly event.

In bigger cities like LA, New York and Nashville, they have a lot more support, he said. There is usually a celebration in Evansville, but it was canceled this year because of COVID. They had one in Owensboro last week with around 300 people.

If Madisonville with a population of 19,500 was able to draw nearly as many guests as Owensboro, which has a population of 57,300, Dr. Kapadias dream might just come true.

Contact Matt Hughes at mhughes@the-messenger.com
With COVID infections and hospitalizations declining, all signs point to a loosening of pandemic restrictions Tuesday, when Gov. John Bel Edwards will decide whether to extend the indoor mask mandate for another month.

But even if the Democratic governor pulls back on the face covering requirement, a trickier question remains: should he also lift the mask mandate in schools?

UPDATE: Gov. John Bel Edwards lifts Louisiana mask mandate, except for certain K-12 schools

Back in August, when hospitals were buckling under the strain of the delta variant, Louisianas pediatricians were unequivocal in their support for a mask mandate for students in K-12 classrooms. But now that the fourth surge has largely subsided, the answer is less clear cut.

Looking at this objectively, I think that the argument for a mask mandate is far less compelling today than it was back in August, said Dr. Mark Kline, the physician-in-chief at Childrens Hospital New Orleans and head of pediatrics at LSU Health New Orleans.

Louisiana GOP lawmakers want to end state mask mandate. Gov. Edwards calls it 'irresponsible' In their latest attempt to undermine Gov. John Bel Edwards response to the COVID-19 pandemic, a small group of Republican state lawmakers is 

A self-described mask advocate, Kline said regardless of what the governor decides, parents would still be wise to send their kids to school with masks. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend that teachers, students and staff wear masks in schools.

For the time being, I wouldnt change a thing, Kline said. But the numbers are down dramatically and the factors that really drove the school mask mandate have really changed radically  Its a tough call.

When Edwards reinstated the mask mandate in early August, there were 2,350 patients hospitalized with COVID. On Monday, hospitals counted just 332 COVID patients.

Dr. John Vanchiere, the immediate past president of the Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, said masking needs to continue in schools until enough children are vaccinated against the deadly virus.

The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine is already authorized by the Food and Drug Administration for anyone 12 or older, and a kid-sized dose of the vaccine could be available by early November for youngsters 5 to 11.

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The strong feeling among pediatricians is that kids should still be wearing masks until the vaccine rates are substantial in the pediatric population, said Vanchiere, a pediatrician and director of community testing and vaccination outreach at LSU Health Shreveport

Mark Ballard: In defiance of medical realities, vaccinations fall along partisan lines Throughout my life, our family gatherings were basically cops and pastors of all political stripes and religious philosophies sitting together

Still, Vanchiere said a one-sized-fits-all mask mandate might not make sense going forward, especially as more children get the jab. He suggested lifting mask mandates in schools that have more than 50% of their students vaccinated and are located in parishes where less than 5% of COVID tests are coming back positive.

At this point, there are probably some high schools that are vaccinated enough, located in communities where infections are low enough, that could consider unmasking, Vanchiere said. This is going to vary from community to community and from school to school.

Mask-wearing requirements in schools have sparked heated opposition among a vocal group of parents, some of whom have likened face coverings to child abuse. In August, they disrupted a meeting of the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, causing the top school board to adjourn before considering a proposal that would have bucked the governors mandate and allowed school districts to decide on their own whether masks were necessary.

Vanchiere said those reactions were largely based on emotion, adding that there's no data to suggest masks inhibit the ability to breath. "Wearing masks was far and away the right thing to do to protect children then," he said.

'Unmask our kids!' Parents protest COVID rules at Ascension Parish School Board meeting A group of parents protested at the Ascension Parish School Board meeting Tuesday night, holding up signs criticizing a policy requiring masks

Complicating Edwards decision is a new quarantine policy for students, implemented in late September by State Superintendent of Education Cade Brumley, that allows parents to choose whether to send their asymptomatic children to school, even after exposure to COVID-19. The updated guidelines were blasted by public health officials, who pointed out that people can spread COVID-19 despite having no symptoms.

To me, that was a political decision not a decision based on what is in the best interest of the children, said Vanchiere, who heads up school based COVID testing for much of west and north Louisiana.

In criticizing Brumley's decision, Edwards credited his mask mandate for cutting down on the number of students that need to quarantine. "Because of the mask mandate, it's really only two students on average per positive case that are having to quarantine," Edwards said in early October.

Edwards met with his public health advisors last week and planned to continue discussions Monday evening, with the goal of signing an executive order midday Tuesday, according to the governors spokesperson, Christina Stephens.

Hes looking at a number of positive signs: decreasing hospitalizations, decreasing cases and decreasing percent positivity in testing, Stephens said. That is incredibly promising, but it does not mean that COVID is over.
If public schools in Ascension, Livingston, Tangipahoa, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana parishes want to stop requiring masks in schools, they'll need to resume quarantining students who are exposed to COVID.

Thats the upshot of new COVID-10 safety rules announced Tuesday afternoon by Gov. John Bel Edwards.

Public schools in East Baton Rouge, Iberville and St. Helena parishes, along with Catholic schools with the Diocese of Baton Rouge, are eligible to lift masking right away because they kept their old quarantining rules. The East Baton Rouge district announced Tuesday that it is keeping a mask mandate in place for now, but St. Helena schools and the diocesan Catholic schools plan to lift their mask mandate.

Leaders of Ascension, Tangipahoa, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana parishes, as well as in Central, were quick to announce Tuesday that they will abide by the governor's new rules in order to lift their mask mandates. Ascension, Central and West Baton Rouge will drop mandatory masks Wednesday and West Feliciana is following suit Thursday.

At the same time, the districts will reinstate old quarantine rules consistent with recommendations of the Louisiana Department of Health and the federal Centers for Disease Control.

Ascension Supt. David Alexander said masks will be optional except for students in the parish's Early College Option who go to school on the campus of River Parishes Community College. Also still required to wear masks are students on school buses  federal transportation rules mandate masking on school buses.

The new rules are a reaction to a Sept. 29 decision by State Schools Superintendent Cade Brumley to allow parents to decide whether to quarantine their kids who are exposed. That decision quickly drew criticism from Gov. Edwards as well as state health officials, who said it could worsen the spread of COVID.

After the Sept. 29 announcement, schools across Louisiana shifted to optional quarantines.

In the greater Baton Rouge area, these include the school district Ascension, Livingston, Tangipahoa, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana parishes, as well as Central public schools.

East Baton Rouge, Iberville and St. Helena parishes, public schools and Catholic schools with the Diocese of Baton Rouge, as well as Zachary schools and some independent charter schools stuck with their pre-existing quarantine rules. They're able to lift their mask mandates right away without any changes to their quarantine rules.

But East Baton Rouge said it would keep its mask rules in place after consulting with its health advisory committee of doctors and public health experts.

"As recently as this afternoon, the leading experts from this committee have continued to maintain that masks and face coverings are one of the most effective tools in protecting our unvaccinated children and school communities. We will continue to review our specific school-level data in partnership with that committee before any additional changes to our guidance are made."

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Other districts jumped at the opportunity.

In a letter Tuesday, Bishop Michael Duca said masking will become optional at the diocese's 31 schools in eight parishes; further guidance for school leaders will be released later this week. Masking will also be optional at "places of work and indoors in parochial facilities."

"While these changes will come as welcome news to many, I continue to encourage diligence throughout our community since the pandemic has not yet ended," Duca wrote.

St. Helena Parish Superintendent Kellie Joseph said she's comfortable making masks optional because St. Helena schools have not recorded a positive case in two months. She credits new weekly COVID testing of students and staff.

"Having that data to be able to make decisions really helps," Joseph said.

She also points to new classroom air purifiers installed in August.

Zachary Superintendent Scott Devillier said he plans to make a decision Wednesday on whether Zachary will shift to optional masking.

See which Baton Rouge-area schools will still require quarantines for students exposed to COVID East Baton Rouge Parish public schools and Catholic schools with the Diocese of Baton Rouge will still require students who come in close cont

The CDC generally recommends that students who come into close contact with the deadly virus spend two weeks at home in isolation. Students who are fully vaccinated  thats only about 15% of school-age children in Louisiana  dont need to quarantine.

And, under Louisiana Department of Health guidance, students who wear masks faithfully dont need to quarantine either. Districts that lift masking rules will have a harder time taking advantage of that quarantine exemption.

Cases of COVID in Louisiana schools and among school-age children peaked in late August, fueled by the infectious delta variant, and have been falling steadily since then.
This image from video from Louisiana State Police trooper Dakota DeMoss' body-worn camera, shows trooper Kory York grabbing the leg shackles and dragging Ronald Greene on his stomach on May 10, 2019, outside of Monroe.
Two Louisiana State Police troopers were fired last week, months after both were arrested and accused of using excessive force against Black suspects amid a widening misconduct probe at Troop F in Monroe.

State Police officials confirmed the terminations Wednesday.

Both Dakota DeMoss and George Harper had been on leave pending the results of internal investigations into their actions. As of last week, those investigations had concluded and the troopers were terminated effective Friday.

+2 State Police Troop F, under fire for Ronald Greene death, lacks diversity at just 9% Black As Ronald Greene lay gashed and spitting up blood on a dark Union Parish road, he took his last breaths surrounded by a group of Louisiana sta

Under state civil service rules, they have 30 days to appeal the terminations before the Louisiana State Police Commission.

Two other troopers also arrested on similar charges, Jacob Brown and Randall Dickerson, resigned from the agency earlier this year.

One arrested state trooper resigns, 2 more receive unpaid leave amid criminal investigation Another Louisiana State Police trooper has resigned and two more will stop receiving their taxpayer funded salaries after getting arrested ear

All four troopers were assigned to Troop F, which patrols a dozen parishes in northeast Louisiana. They were arrested in February after investigators found evidence of excessive force in two separate encounters.

The first incident, which involved Brown and Dickerson, occurred in July 2019 during a traffic stop in Ouachita Parish. The second occurred in May 2020 following a car chase in Franklin Parish. In that case, troopers Brown, DeMoss and Harper traded jokes in a group text after booking the suspect into jail, their conversation peppered with abbreviations for "laughing my ass off" and "laugh out loud."

"He was still digesting that ass whoopin," DeMoss said, suggesting the man would "have nightmares for a long time."

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"He gonna be sore tomorrow for sure," Brown added. "Warms my heart knowing we could educate that young man."

Records show that DeMoss and Harper received counseling back in June 2020 after supervisors reviewed their bodycam footage from the incident. The troopers received letters from a supervisor warning them about profane language and noting that it was inappropriate to strike the suspect and lift him up using his hair. But the consequences stopped there  until the troopers were notified several months later of ongoing administrative and criminal investigations against them.

DeMoss is also named in a lawsuit filed last year by the family of Ronald Greene, a Black man who died after a brutal encounter with troopers in 2019 following a lengthy police chase that ended in Union Parish. Bodycam footage of the incident, which State Police recently released only after the Associated Press published leaked copies, shows troopers beating, dragging and repeatedly tasing Greene. His death  which State Police initially said resulted from a car crash  is the subject of an ongoing federal civil rights investigation.

+18 In Ronald Greene's death, protestors at Capitol demand trooper accountability: 'We want justice' Following the recent release of bodycam footage showing Ronald Greene taking his last breaths after being brutalized by Louisiana state troope

State Police Superintendent Col. Lamar Davis had previously announced his intention to fire DeMoss, but the news about Harper was first reported Wednesday.

State Police officials said disciplinary records pertaining to the terminations will be made public in the future.

Criminal charges against all four arrested troopers remain pending.
Amid a widening misconduct investigation involving several Louisiana state troopers assigned to patrol the Monroe area, internal investigators reviewed text messages that showed three officers joking about giving a suspect an "ass whoopin" he would remember for a long time, police reports show.

The three troopers were arrested last month and accused of using excessive force during the May 2020 incident, which occurred after the suspect led law enforcement on a police chase spanning 29 miles and exceeding 150 mph. Their arrests came amid a series of scandals at Troop F, including the death of a Black man in State Police custody that prompted a federal civil rights probe.

In a group text message soon after the chase, the troopers discussed how the man behaved while being booked into jail, according to an arrest warrant obtained by The Advocate. The warrant includes the following excerpt from the text conversation, which is peppered with abbreviations for "laughing my ass off" and "laugh out loud."

"LOL he was still digesting that ass whoopin," said Dakota DeMoss, who later suggested the man would "have nightmares for a long time."

"He gonna be sore tomorrow for sure," said Jacob Brown. "LMAO  warms my heart knowing we could educate that young man."

Brown resigned from State Police this week, officials confirmed Friday  about a month after his most recent arrest. He has now been arrested in three separate incidents that together suggest a pattern of alleged abuse: All the incidents were traffic stops involving Black men who were subjected to unnecessary force, including being beaten with a flashlight, punched in the head and otherwise bloodied, investigators found.

An attorney representing Brown, Scott Wolleson, declined to comment Friday.

While details about the two other incidents have been previously disclosed in public records and lawsuits, that May 2020 encounter remained largely a mystery because the case is being handled in Franklin Parish, where officials denied having copies of any relevant court documents. That changed when the arrest warrant for DeMoss was filed into the court record last week. The warrant was attached to a recent lawsuit filed on behalf of three troopers facing criminal charges  DeMoss, George Harper and Randall Dickerson  seeking to halt the ongoing internal investigations against them.

Louisiana state trooper resigns after being arrested 3 times for excessive force A Louisiana state police trooper who was recently arrested in three separate excessive force incidents resigned from the agency this week.

The suit, which was filed in 19th Judicial District Court, argues that State Police officials failed to follow the proper timeline for administrative investigations against Louisiana law enforcement officers. State law specifies that investigations must be launched within 14 days of whenever supervisors become aware of the incident. A judge agreed to temporarily halt the investigations pending his final decision on the matter, which is expected next week.

In addition to Brown and DeMoss, Harper was arrested last month in connection with the May 2020 incident. He also participated in the group text, according to the warrant.

After reviewing bodycam footage and interviewing the suspect, as well as other law enforcement witnesses, investigators concluded that those three troopers used unnecessary and unreasonable force, the warrant says. Investigators also concluded that Brown lied about what happened, claiming the suspect resisted arrest after losing control of his vehicle during the chase.

Arrested State Police troopers threw handcuffed man to ground, punched him in head, records say After four Louisiana state troopers were arrested Monday and accused of using excessive force, new court records describe a July 2019 traffic 

The incident originated from a traffic stop that Brown conducted after he noticed the driver drifted over the fog line after changing lanes on Interstate 20 in Richland Parish, according to the warrant. After running his Mississippi license, Brown noticed the driver had outstanding warrants for gun and escape charges. He called for backup, but while he was waiting for other troopers to arrive, the driver returned to his vehicle and fled. The police chase followed, ending 29 miles later in Franklin Parish after deputies used spike strips to stop the fleeing vehicle.

The warrant notes that Brown accurately described those parts of the encounter. But his descriptions of what came next were deemed untruthful.

Brown reported that the driver fled on foot but stopped when troopers told him to lie on the ground. Brown said the man then wedged his hands under his prone body and ignored commands to place them behind his back, fighting with troopers and hindering their efforts to get him into handcuffs.

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"Troopers began delivering tactical strikes  to gain compliance," Brown wrote in his report, which is quoted in the warrant. He said troopers were able to "overpower" the man "after an extensive struggle."

However, internal investigators reviewed bodycam footage of the encounter and concluded that the suspect actually "immediately surrendered" after exiting his vehicle and laid on the ground with his arms extended, the warrant says. Investigators noted that DeMoss approached the man first and "delivered a knee strike" and then slapped him in the face even though he "had surrendered and was not resisting." DeMoss then turned off his body camera, the warrant says.

The beating continued as Harper punched the man in the head several times and Brown pulled his hair, according to the warrant. Both Harper and Brown were holding flashlights, even though the warrant notes it was daylight.

After troopers searched the man, DeMoss pulled him up by his hair, the warrant says.

Then Harper told him: "I hope you act up when we get to the f****** jail. I am going to punish you, dumb b****. What the f*** is wrong with you."

The three troopers later exchanged text messages. The conversation started when Brown asked "How was his attitude at the jail" and Harper responded: "Complete silence." The exchange devolved from there, the warrant shows.

"Bet he won't run from a full grown bear again," Brown wrote, to which DeMoss replied: "Bet he don't even cross into LA anymore."

Records show at least two of the troopers, DeMoss and Harper, received counseling back in June 2020 after supervisors reviewed their bodycam footage from the incident. The troopers received letters from a supervisor warning them about profane language and noting that it was inappropriate to strike the suspect and lift him up using his hair. But the consequences stopped there  until the troopers were notified several months later of ongoing administrative and criminal investigations against them.

That incident was the most recent of three separate cases in which Brown is accused of violating Louisiana law. He was arrested for the first time in December, accused of beating Aaron Bowman with a flashlight and causing him serious injuries, including broken ribs, a fractured arm and deep cuts to his head. Bowman filed a lawsuit against State Police last year after learning of a similar incident involving several members of Troop F  including DeMoss  that left Ronald Greene dead in police custody.

State Police had initially claimed Greene died upon impact after crashing his car during a police chase, but a lawsuit filed on behalf of his family alleges troopers actually beat the man to death, leaving him "bloodied and in cardiac arrest" before covering up what happened.

Both Bowman and Greene were beaten with a flashlight, according to attorneys. Both incidents occurred in May 2019, but State Police did not open investigations into either case until receiving lawsuits several months later accusing troopers of using excessive force and lying about it. The agency has also refused to release bodycam footage until its investigations are complete.

Ron Haley, who represents both plaintiffs, said the arrest warrant that surfaced Friday adds to a growing pile of egregious misconduct allegations threatening the integrity of State Police.

"This further shows that there is a cultural problem with State Police, in particular at Troop F," he said after reviewing the warrant Friday. "The fact that it has taken almost two years for even one ounce of accountability is extremely disturbing. Why has it taken so long?"

Not long after the Troop F scandals started coming to light, Col. Kevin Reeves stepped down as State Police superintendent last fall. He had spent decades at Troop F before his promotion to the top job.

His top assistant was Bob Brown, Jacob Brown's father, who also came from Troop F and has since retired.

While Jacob Brown resigned this week, DeMoss and Harper remain on administrative leave, as does Dickerson who was arrested last month. All four face charges of simple battery and malfeasance in office, plus an additional obstruction of justice charge for Brown.

Dickerson was accused, alongside Brown, of using excessive force during yet another traffic stop in Ouachita Parish in spring 2019.
Another Louisiana State Police trooper has resigned and two more will stop receiving their taxpayer funded salaries after getting arrested earlier this year, accused of mistreating Black suspects.

The case has already raised serious questions about the culture at Monroe-based Troop F, which is the subject of multiple lawsuits alleging troopers used excessive force in encounters with Black people, including one that left a man dead from his injuries. The allegations also include attempts to cover up the beatings.

State Police officials said Thursday that Randall Dickerson, one of the arrested troopers, had resigned from the agency effective March 28. He was the second trooper to resign in recent weeks: Jacob Brown issued his resignation last month while facing criminal charges in at least three separate excessive force incidents.

The Louisiana State Police Commission, which oversees civil service rules for troopers, also voted unanimously Thursday morning to place troopers Dakota DeMoss and George Harper on unpaid leave. But the commission allowed those troopers to first use up their compensatory time, which typically refers to overtime hours that officers accrue as future paid time off.

Commission members said their decision was "consistent with prior practices" and officials said the process is unfolding as usual for troopers placed on leave pending the results of a criminal investigation. After 400 hours of paid administrative leave, State Police can submit a request for unpaid leave moving forward, which is what happened here.

For DeMoss and Harper, the 400 hours will expire April 12, at which point they will start using up their compensatory time. State Police officials declined to provide details about how much time the two have accrued.

Meanwhile, a Baton Rouge judge recently issued a ruling allowing the internal investigations against those troopers to proceed after their attorneys argued the investigations were untimely and invalid.

All four troopers were assigned to Troop F, which patrols the Monroe area and several surrounding parishes. They were arrested in February after investigators found evidence of excessive force in two separate encounters.

The first incident, which involved Brown and Dickerson, occurred in July 2019 during a traffic stop in Ouachita Parish. The second occurred in May 2020 following a car chase in Franklin Parish. In that case, troopers Brown, DeMoss and Harper traded jokes in a group text after booking the suspect into jail, their conversation peppered with abbreviations for "laughing my ass off" and "laugh out loud."

"He was still digesting that ass whoopin," DeMoss said, suggesting the man would "have nightmares for a long time."

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"He gonna be sore tomorrow for sure," Brown added. "Warms my heart knowing we could educate that young man."

Records show that DeMoss and Harper received counseling back in June 2020 after supervisors reviewed their bodycam footage from the incident. The troopers received letters from a supervisor warning them about profane language and noting that it was inappropriate to strike the suspect and lift him up using his hair. But the consequences stopped there  until the troopers were notified several months later of ongoing administrative and criminal investigations against them.

Those notifications came after a change in leadership. Col. Kevin Reeves stepped down as superintendent last fall amid the widening misconduct probe at Troop F, which began with a lawsuit filed by the family of Ronald Greene, the man who died following an encounter with state troopers in 2019. Reeves had served for decades at Troop F before his promotion to agency head.

Col. Lamar Davis was appointed his successor, becoming the fourth African American superintendent in the history of State Police. He has pledged to root out corruption and seek to repair trust with Black communities.

+9 'This is God's plan:' New State Police head surprised and humbled to be leading agency After more than two decades with the Louisiana State Police  a career that spans various divisions from traffic patrols and intelligence gath

Attorneys for the arrested troopers argued in recent court filings that Davis failed to follow the proper timeline for administrative investigations, which must be launched within 14 days of whenever supervisors become aware of the incident. The attorneys claimed that leaders violated that rule by opening new investigations after Davis took charge.

They obtained a temporary restraining order halting the investigations pending a court ruling, but 19th Judicial District Judge Ron Johnson announced March 18 that the investigations could proceed as planned.

State Police officials said Thursday that the investigations have resumed and are set to conclude April 25. Discipline decisions for DeMoss and Harper  which could include demotions or termination  should follow soon thereafter. The troopers could then appeal their discipline before the Louisiana State Police Commission, which would decide to either uphold or overturn the decisions according to state civil service law.

Arrested State Police troopers threw handcuffed man to ground, punched him in head, records say After four Louisiana state troopers were arrested Monday and accused of using excessive force, new court records describe a July 2019 traffic 
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Woolworths boss Brad Banducci doesnt want to be alarmist about inflation. But when he mentions that a shipping container that cost less than $1000 a year ago is $4500 today, alarm bells rang.

And when he described his expectation for food inflation as the toughest of all questions the bells got louder.

Australias largest supermarket managed to keep the inflation genie inside the baked bean can for the duration of the pandemic. Thats the good news.

Woolworths boss Brad Banducci says the last quarter was one of the retailers most challenging. Credit:Wolter Peeters

But pressures are coming down the pike - some of which relate to logistics and some to supply.

The extent to which consumers will feel this at the checkout depends on how much retailers such as Woolworths and Coles are willing to absorb into their own profit margins.

Indeed, with much of supermarket fresh food supply sourced domestically, it will be the imported grocery staples that are more susceptible to price rises.

The transport and logistics or supply chain issues are the biggest challenge. Banducci said on Wednesday that Woolworths regularly fielded approaches from suppliers for price increases. But at the moment, he admits, there are more than usual.

So we can see legitimacy from the cost increase the suppliers are giving us but weve got to be very careful on how we pass those through to our customers, he said.

Woolworths appears to have navigated the challenges of shipping and containers for the moment but most recently it has needed to deal with its suppliers shortage of pallets. So itll continue to be a challenge as these bottlenecks are dealt with and as I say, its pretty dynamic.

Read the full column here
Two Torres Strait community leaders are taking the Australian government to the Federal Court, alleging it failed to protect First Nations traditional owners living on the front line of catastrophic climate change.

In the first Australian climate class action brought on behalf of First Nations people, the Gudamalulgal traditional owners from the remote, low-lying islands of Boigu and Saibai say the governments failure to reduce emissions will force their communities to become Australias first climate-change refugees.

Pabai Pabai (left) and Paul Kabai on the jetty in Boigu, a low-lying island in the Torres Strait. They are taking the government to court, insisting it exercise its duty of care to them and prevent catastrophic climate change and sea level rise.

Wadhuam Paul Kabai and Wadhuam Pabai Pabai say the climate crisis is causing sea levels to rise, their precious cultural sites to be washed away and the islands soil to be ruined by salt and become unsuitable for growing crops.

Becoming climate refugees means losing everything: our homes, our culture, our stories and our identity. If you take away our homelands we dont know who we are, says Mr Kabai.
Bergin in February gave Crown Sydney the go-ahead to open its high-roller casino at Barangaroo with a string of heavy conditions attached. And Finkelsteins decision paves the way for Crowns Southbank slab to return to something resembling business as usual. Contrast that state of affairs to March 2020, when COVID-19 and a ban on all non-essential trading prompted Crown to shutter its casinos nationally and in Britain. That announcement triggered a share slide to $8.28, which wiped $1.3 billion off Packers shareholding in less than a month. Again, thats ancient history now. PLAIN SAILING And its not the only good news Packer has had over the past two months. The ever-retiring billionaire is also in the midst of selling his 108-metre giga-yacht IJE with a price tag just shy of $300 million.

James Packers super-yacht, IJE. Credit:Burgess Yachts The casino magnate, who turned 54 last month, quietly tipped the Italian super-yacht onto the market in September and just in time for the 2021 Monaco Yacht Show, where the 11-cabin monolith took pride of place as the most capacious vessel moored in Monacos Port Hercule. Its apparent IJE did not go unnoticed. Travel logs show IJE jetting in and out of the port  the boating equivalent of a test drive  before cruising to the Cote dAzur pleasure spots of Antibes and Saint Jean-Cap-Ferrat in early October. On October 12, IJE left its berth in Monaco for a jaunt into the Mediterranean before doing a 180-degree turn to head straight back to port. Again, another boating test drive. Boat show organisers did not return CBDs requests for comments on interest in the boat. But its travel logs would indicate an encouraging response. ERNIES END?

Its not often  read never  that Meredith Burgmann retracts. Until now. For 29 years, the custodian of the Ernie Awards for Sexist Remarks has been dishing it up to the mansplaining and patronising big boys. Senator Eric Abetz. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen But the former NSW Labor upper house president has come a cropper after she had to withdraw this years Gold Ernie Award to outgoing Tasmanian senator Eric Abetz. Abetz, now sadly relegated to the probably unwinnable third spot on the Tasmanian Liberal Senate ticket, won the top prize for alleged remarks that were recounted in the Tasmanian Parliament by former speaker Sue Hickey.

But Burgmann had failed to note Abetz strongly denied the remarks, or that Hickey had failed to repeat them outside the Tasmanian Parliament where she would be subject to libel laws. After Abetz staffers drew this to her attention, Burgmann reissued the citation with the word allegedly attached to Abetzs purported remarks. Not enough. On Tuesday, Burgmann  presumably after dialogue with the senators peeps  issued another release noting that in her previous media statement Senator Abetz was quoted as having said certain things. I was not aware at the time that he denied having said these things. I have apologised to Senator Abetz for any concern this may have caused him. His name and the alleged quotes have been removed from the Ernies website and the award has been withdrawn.

Maximum embarrassment. Now the question is, will the Ernies survive it? IRON MAN At last, a winner has been declared in the modest federal parliamentary Games of Thrones-style contest for the Iron Throne that comes with the chair of the House of Representatives standing committee on economics. Franking credits warrior Tim Wilson vacated the post last month when he was elevated to the outer ministry as Assistant Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction. Tim Wilson (left) and Jason Falinski. Credit:James Brickwood
On an island about 1400 kilometres away from Queensland lies a small community where months of uncertainty over the education system had left only nine teachers committed to stay to support 300 students.

Doubts had lingered over the Norfolk Islands future of schooling, once NSW ended its commitment to providing crucial services.

Queensland has agreed to provide state services to Norfolk Island.

Nine teachers out of 35 have committed to staying regardless of what happens, Norfolk Island teacher Susie Hale said last week.

The others have either already taken jobs in NSW or are in an ambivalent zone to wait and see.
The operators of Love Machine nightclub in Prahran will face court over a range of alleged liquor licensing breaches and failure to comply with public health orders following three separate investigations by police.

Sterling Nightclubs Pty Ltd, which owns Love Machine and another venue in South Yarra, was due to face the Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday over a charge of breaching a condition of its license.

Inside Prahrans Love Machine nightclub. Credit:Instagram

While the matter was adjourned until next year, the company is due to appear before the courts again in December on a raft of other charges, including failing to comply with directions from the chief health officer, failing to provide documents for inspection, and failing to appear before an authorised person to answer questions.

A Victoria Police spokesman confirmed the company was also charged with allowing an intoxicated patron to enter its venue.
Abdul Nacer Benbrika, the first Australian convicted of leading a terrorist group, has appealed a courts decision that is keeping him behind bars despite finishing his sentence.

Benbrika completed a 15-year jail term for directing a Melbourne-based terror cell last year. But after an application from former home affairs minister Peter Dutton, Victorian Supreme Court Justice Andrew Tinney ordered he stay in detention until 2023, ruling he posed an unacceptable risk to the community.

Terror plotter Abdul Nacer Benbrika remains in jail despite completing his sentence. Credit:ABC

His legal team, headed in the Court of Appeal on Tuesday by Dan Star, QC, is fighting his continued imprisonment under the post-sentence detention scheme.

The scheme  which federal law experts said was introduced partly in response to Benbrikas case  allows authorities to continue to detain convicted terrorists if a court decides they pose an unacceptable risk of committing a wide range of serious terrorism offences in the community.
Former Nationals leader Michael McCormack has angrily confronted Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce on the floor of Federal Parliament following a series of leaks from the partys private chat group.

At the beginning of question time on Tuesday, Mr McCormack was seen pointing and gesturing at the man who replaced him in June, following the publication of a story by news.com.au detailing Mr McCormacks displeasure with his colleague, Queensland MP George Christensen, over a social media post on Monday night.

Nationals MP Michael McCormack was seen pointing and gesturing at Barnaby Joyce at the start of question time. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

The bizarre video was posted on Facebook by Mr Christensen showing Queensland senator Matt Canavans face superimposed on that of the Terminator, who shoots people, including a police officer. It was captioned: This is pretty much Senator Matthew Canavan dealing with the disastrous net zero push today.

Tension within the junior Coalition partner has been high since the change of leadership, with both Mr Christensen and Senator Canavan becoming more outspoken over Coalition policy, in particular the target of reaching net zero emissions by 2050.
Aged care residents can start getting top-up coronavirus vaccines now and the Pfizer shot will be available at pharmacies within weeks after the medical regulator approved it for use as a booster.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the booster program will begin no later than November 8 for the general population, pending final advice on who should get boosters from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation, which is expected this week.

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the government is ready to roll out a booster program. Credit:Alex Ellinghausen

As people come to the six month-plus time frame since their second dose, Pfizer will be available, he said.

But Mr Hunt said vulnerable aged care residents  many of whom were fully vaccinated more than six months ago  could get booster shots now, with some aged care providers already starting to roll out booster programs in their facilities.
Labor MP Julian Hill says the United States government must answer a credible allegation that its spy agency planned to kidnap or even kill Julian Assange while he evaded possible charges in Ecuadors embassy in London.

He said the Australian government must challenge its closest security ally after a media report last month claimed the Central Intelligence Agency raised the prospect of capturing the WikiLeaks founder because it feared the Australian was plotting an escape of his own.

Julian Assange, pictured in 2017 at the Ecuadorian embassy. Credit:AP

The report, published by Yahoo News, relied on interviews with 30 former US officials and said three detailed an alleged plot to kill Assange.

Mr Hill, who is a prominent figure in the 23-member bipartisan Bring Julian Assange Home parliamentary group, said the claims should not be treated like the James Bond premiere.
Queensland will welcome the return of international students from January next year in time for semester one.

More than 20,000 international students enrolled in Queensland universities have been continuing their studies online from more than 160 home countries.

A quarantine hub is being built near the Wellcamp Airport terminal. Credit:Matt Dennien

Under the plan, 250 international students will return each fortnight before that number is increased.

Students must be fully vaccinated, with priority initially given to those studying medicine, medical research or in the allied health field.
For an administration renowned for its rigidity and tough punishments, the Andrews government has offered rare clemency to Crown casino in allowing it to keep its gaming licence despite being told it was unsuitable to operate.

The gaming giant was instead offered two years to clean up its act, which Crown sources say prompted a collective sigh of relief on Southbank on Tuesday.

Crown has retained its Victorian casino licence. Credit:Jason South

Shielded by the royal commissions recommendations, the state government said it would permit Crown to stay open, on the proviso it stops exploiting problem gamblers, no longer facilitates money laundering and pays back millions of dollars in tax owed to Victorians.

It was little wonder nerves were shot at Crown headquarters given the royal commissions final report found it acted in a way that was illegal, dishonest, unethical and exploitative.
London: Britain has drawn up laws that will effectively boot out China from its nuclear plants as it looks to Australian super funds to help support its path to achieving its net-zero climate goals.

The British government has been facing a sustained campaign by MPs who want it to stamp out Chinese involvement in critical infrastructure, following the years-long tussle that eventually resulted in the UK adopting Australias ban on Huawei.

A worker enters the intake tunnel on the construction site for the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station near Bridgwater, Britain. Credit:Bloomberg

Under the new model, Britain will seek a broad range of private investors from allied countries to fund new plants. One of its key targets will be Australias super funds which are worth nearly $4 trillion and favour the long-term and low-risk investment options that energy infrastructure projects provide.

It will also oblige consumers to pay a small amount, estimated to be a few pounds per month via their electricity bills to help fund the plants construction.
Bloom Energy Debuts Advanced Solid Oxide Fuel Cell to Provide Clean, Reliable, and Affordable Power 24/7 (Originally Published 2/24/2010)













SEE ALSO: 10/26/2021: Bloom Energy - Stock Soars After Largest Customer Increases Commitment

SEE ALSO: How Bloom Energy Fuel Cell Works - Video

SEE ALSO: 60 Minute Bloom Box Video

SEE ALSO: How Fuel Cells Work

Editors Note: Only The Auto Channel can provide First Hand Coverage of The Bloom Energy Press Conference to auto enthusiasts and consumers.

The Auto Channel's Marc Rauch and Mark Fulmer were the only automotive journalists among a select cadre of high powered media invitees to the Bloom Energy press conference this morning.

Our crew will provide exclusive Press Pass Coverage of this event including video of the total event, so you can see it for yourself and make up your own mind concerning the veracity of this breakthrough fuel-cell.

When The Auto Channel Co-publisher Marc Rauch asked Dr. KR Sridhar, principal co-founder and CEO of Bloom Energy about his plans for an automotive/mobile version of the magic box, Dr. Sridhar said that he believes that his invention "was not made to be mobile" because of the inherent operation of a solid oxide fuel cell which is designed to always be working and generating electric and its extreme operating temperature. In response to this question Dr. Sridhar asked our reported "why isnt hydrogen being used as a fuel in Americas internal combustion powered cars and trucks now?" a question we have asked for over 5 years

TACH hopes that the publicity and the potential effectiveness of the good doctors invention will reignite the interest in hydrogen fuel cells for mobile application. With all of today's attention and resources being given over to the development and implementation of pure electric vehicles, hybrid-electrics and plug-ins, we hope that Bloom Energy's fuel-cell will prove that fuel cells are an integral element in our quest to solve our power generation needs, and that hydrogen fuel cells can be the long term solution to replace oil based transportation fuels.

So to wrap this up and let you read the article below...Near Term Solution  ICE Powered Vehicles burning E-85; Long Term Solution - Non polluting efficient and abundant Hydrogen powered Fuel Cells...why not? fellow Americans

SUNNYVALE, Calif. February 24, 2010; Bloom Energy Corporation, a Silicon Valley-based company committed to changing the way people generate and consume energy, announced today the availability of the Bloom Energy Server, a patented solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology that provides a cleaner, more reliable, and more affordable alternative to both todays electric grid as well as traditional renewable energy sources. The Bloom Energy Server provides distributed power generation, allowing customers to efficiently create their own electricity onsite. The company introduced its groundbreaking technology at an event hosted today at eBay Inc. headquarters along with California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, General Colin Powell, and several of its early customers.

Bloom Energy is dedicated to making clean, reliable energy affordable for everyone in the world

Built using abundant and affordable materials, Blooms fuel cell technology is fundamentally different from the legacy hydrogen fuel cells most people are familiar with. The Bloom Energy Server is distinct in four primary ways: it uses lower cost materials, provides unmatched efficiency in converting fuel to electricity, has the ability to run on a wide range of renewable or traditional fuels, and is more easily deployed and maintained.

Unlike traditional renewable energy technologies, like solar and wind, which are intermittent, Blooms technology can provide renewable power 24/7.

Each Bloom Energy Server provides 100 kilowatts (kW) of power in roughly the footprint of a parking space. Each system generates enough power to meet the needs of approximately 100 average U.S. homes or a small office building. For more power, customers simply deploy multiple Energy Servers side by side. The modular architecture allows customers to start small and pay as they grow.

Blooms customers have deployed the solution to lower and/or fix their energy costs, while significantly cutting their carbon footprint and enhancing their energy security by reducing their dependence on the grid. Customers who purchase Blooms systems can expect a 3-5 year payback on their capital investment from the energy cost savings. Depending on whether they are using a fossil or renewable fuel, they can also achieve a 40-100% reduction in their carbon footprint as compared with the U.S. grid. Customers announced today include Bank of America ; The Coca-Cola Company ; Cox Enterprises; eBay ; FedEx Express, an operating company of FedEx Corp. ; Google ; Staples ; and Walmart .

Since the first commercial customer installation in July 2008, Blooms Energy Servers have collectively produced more than 11 million kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity, with CO 2 reductions estimated at 14 million pounds  the equivalent of powering approximately 1,000 American homes for a year and planting one million trees.

Bloom Energy is dedicated to making clean, reliable energy affordable for everyone in the world, said Dr. KR Sridhar, principal co-founder and CEO of Bloom Energy. We believe that we can have the same kind of impact on energy that the mobile phone had on communications. Just as cell phones circumvented landlines to proliferate telephony, Bloom Energy will enable the adoption of distributed power as a smarter, localized energy source. Our customers are the cornerstone of that vision and we are thrilled to be working with industry leading companies to lower their energy costs, reduce their carbon footprint, improve their energy security, and showcase their commitment to a better future.

Powder to Power  How It Works

Founded in 2001, Bloom Energy can trace its roots to the NASA Mars space program. For NASA, Sridhar and his team were charged with building technology to help sustain life on Mars using solar energy and water to produce air to breath and fuel for transportation. They soon realized that their technology could have an even greater impact here on Earth and began work on what would become the Bloom Energy Server.

The Bloom Energy Server converts air and nearly any fuel source  ranging from natural gas to a wide range of biogases  into electricity via a clean electrochemical process, rather than dirty combustion. Even running on a fossil fuel, the systems are approximately 67% cleaner than a typical coal-fired power plant. When powered by a renewable fuel, they can be 100% cleaner. Each Energy Server consists of thousands of Bloom's fuel cells  flat, solid ceramic squares made from a common sand-like "powder."

Today we are witnessing something special," said John Doerr, partner at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers and Bloom Energy board member. "This is a new kind of product announcement. It comes long after a product has shipped and it comes directly from marquis customers. For years, there have been promises of new energy solutions that are clean, distributed, affordable, and reliable; today we learn that Bloom, formerly in stealth, has actually delivered. Americans want clean, affordable, energy, 24x7 -- and all the jobs that go with it. Bloom's boxes are a breakthrough, serving energy, serving demanding customers, and serving our country."

Bloom Energys management team possesses expertise across a number of relevant industries, including aerospace, high volume manufacturing, semiconductors, automotive, naval nuclear, and Silicon Valley startups. In addition to CEO Sridhar, the companys board members include John Doerr, partner, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers; General Colin Powell, former U.S. Secretary of State; Scott Sandell, general partner, New Enterprise Associates (NEA); T.J. Rodgers, chairman, SunPower; and Eddy Zervigon, managing director, Morgan Stanley.

Bloom Energys investors include Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, representing the firms first clean tech investment, as well as Morgan Stanley, NEA, and Northgate Capital.

About Bloom Energy

Bloom Energy is a provider of breakthrough solid oxide fuel cell technology that generates clean, highly-efficient power onsite from virtually any fuel source. Bloom Energys mission is to make clean, reliable energy affordable for everyone in the world. The Bloom Energy Server is currently producing power for several Fortune 500 companies. The company is headquartered in Sunnyvale, CA. For more information, visit BloomEnergy.com.

How Solid Oxide Fuel Cells Work

. An AFC consists of a non-porous metal oxide electrolyte (typically zirconium oxide) sandwiched between an anode (negatively charged electrode) and a cathode (positively charged electrode). The processes that take place in the fuel cell are as follows: 1. Hydrogen fuel is channeled through field flow plates to the anode on one side of the fuel cell, while oxygen from the air is channeled to the cathode on the other side of the cell. 2. At the cathode, a catalyst causes electrons from the electrical circuit to combine with oxygen to create negatively charged oxygen ions. 3. The negatively charged oxygen ions flow through the electrolyte to the anode. 4. At the anode, the catalyst causes the hydrogen to react with the oxygen ions forming water and free electrons. 5. The negatively charged electrons cannot flow through the electrolyte to reach the positively charged cathode, so they must flow through an external circuit, forming an electrical current. 6. At the cathode, the electrons combine with oxygen to create negatively charged oxygen ions, and the process repeats.

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) use a hard, non-porous ceramic compound as the electrolyte. Because the electrolyte is a solid, the cells do not have to be constructed in the plate-like configuration typical of other fuel cell types. SOFCs are expected to be around 50%60% efficient at converting fuel to electricity. In applications designed to capture and utilize the system's waste heat (co-generation), overall fuel use efficiencies could top 80%85%.

Solid oxide fuel cells operate at very high temperaturesaround 1,000C (1,830F). High-temperature operation removes the need for precious-metal catalyst, thereby reducing cost. It also allows SOFCs to reform fuels internally, which enables the use of a variety of fuels and reduces the cost associated with adding a reformer to the system.

SOFCs are also the most sulfur-resistant fuel cell type; they can tolerate several orders of magnitude more of sulfur than other cell types. In addition, they are not poisoned by carbon monoxide (CO), which can even be used as fuel. This property allows SOFCs to use gases made from coal.

High-temperature operation has disadvantages. It results in a slow startup and requires significant thermal shielding to retain heat and protect personnel, which may be acceptable for utility applications but not for transportation and small portable applications. The high operating temperatures also place stringent durability requirements on materials. The development of low-cost materials with high durability at cell operating temperatures is the key technical challenge facing this technology.

Scientists are currently exploring the potential for developing lower-temperature SOFCs operating at or below 800C that have fewer durability problems and cost less. Lower-temperature SOFCs produce less electrical power, however, and stack materials that will function in this lower temperature range have not been identified.

SEE ALSO: How Bloom Energy Fuel Cell Works - Video
Mark Twain is often given credit for the quote, History never repeats itself, but it does often rhyme. The quote emphasizes that events do not always unfold in the same way, but they often unfold in similar ways. The tale of Chinas military ambitions as a great power, just now starting to
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Rhode Island State Rep. Joseph Trillo, R-Warwick, right, joins with other legislators in saying the Pledge of Allegiance as they go into session in the House Chamber at the Statehouse, in Providence, R.I., Tuesday, June 12, 2012.
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An award-winning political journalist, John L. Micek is Editor-in-Chief of The Pennsylvania Capital-Star in Harrisburg, Pa. Email him at jmicek@penncapital-star.com and follow him on Twitter

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NEW MEMBERS  Four new members have joined the Clarion Area Chamber of Commerce. They are Black Bear Hemp Dispensary, 400 Main St., Clarion; Lewis Lumber & Milling Inc., 16289 Route 322, Clarion; The Forest Nook, 3121 Forest Road, Vowinckel; and The Wayside Restaurant, 1123 Old Fryburg R
12 House Republicans Demand DOJ Rescind Memo That Could Be Used to Target Concerned Parents

A group of 12 Republican members of the House Judiciary Committee is demanding that Attorney General Merrick Garland rescind a memo directing the FBI to police school board meetings, after the interest group whose complaint prompted the directive apologized for likening parent protests to domestic terrorism.

Garlands memo, which sparked much controversy since its Oct. 4 release, directs the FBI to work with state and local governments to address an alleged disturbing spike in harassment, intimidation, and threats of violence against teachers and school leaders.

Garland has admitted that his department issued the memo after communicating with the White House about a letter from the National School Boards Association (NSBA), which urged the Biden administration to invoke counter-terrorism laws to handle angry mobs of parents seeking to hold school officials accountable for the teaching of the Marxist critical race theory and for imposing COVID-19 restrictions on their children.

Following widespread criticism, including form state school board groups who oppose the way the memo characterized concerned parents, the NSBA last week walked back its previous message, saying that there was no justification for some of the language included in the letter.

In a letter sent to Garland on Monday, the 12 Republicans also argued that the Department of Justice (DOJ) too should withdraw its directive.

The NSBA expressed regret about and formally apologized for its letter to President Biden, the Republican members of Congress, led by Rep. Jim Jordan (R-Ohio), said in the letter. Because the NSBA letter was the basis for your memorandum and given that your memorandum has been and will continue to be read as threatening parents and chilling their protected First Amendment rights, the only responsible course of action is for you to fully and unequivocally withdraw your memorandum immediately.

The Republicans also said they found Garlands testimony before the House Judiciary Committee last week troubling.

You acknowledged that you issued the unusual directive soon after reading about the thinly sourced letter sent by the [NSBA] to President Biden and not because of any specific request from state or local law enforcement, they said in the letter.

They added of their concerns, During your testimony, you sidestepped the obvious effect of your ill-conceived memorandum and the chilling effect that invoking the full weight of the federal law enforcement apparatus would have on parents protected First Amendment speech, noting that parents have undisputed right to direct their childrens education, and that its not the FBIs business but rather that of local enforcement to address, if any, threats or violence at local school board meetings.

During the Oct. 21 hearing, Garland was asked whether parents actions of protesting against the decisions of their local school board should be regarded as domestic terrorism. He replied that the words domestic terrorism were not used in the DOJ memo.

I want to be clear, the Justice Department supports and defends the First Amendment right of parents to complain as viscerally as they wish, about the education of their children, about the curriculum taught in their schools, Garland said.

I cant imagine any circumstance in which the PATRIOT Act would be used in the circumstances of parents complaining about their children, nor can I imagine a circumstance where they would be labeled as domestic terrorism, he added.

The Epoch Times has reached out to the DOJ for comment.
A visitor looks at wooden royal statues of the Dahomey kingdom, dated 19th century, at Quai Branly museum in Paris, France, on Nov. 23, 2018. (Michel Euler/AP Photo)

129-Year Journey Nears End as France Returns Benin Treasures

PARISIn a decision with potential ramifications across European museums, France is displaying 26 looted colonial-era artifacts for one last time before returning them home to Benin.

The wooden anthropomorphic statues, royal thrones, and sacred altars were pilfered by the French army in the 19th century from western Africa. The French will have a final glimpse of the objects, from the collection known as the Abomey Treasures, in the Musee du quai BranlyJacques Chirac from Tuesday through Sunday.

The 19th century Throne of King Ghezo (L), and Throne of King Glele, from Benin, are pictured at the Quai BranlyJacques Chirac museum in Paris, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Michel Euler/AP Photo)

A royal statue of Benins 19th century King Behanzin is pictured at the Quai BranlyJacques Chirac museum in Paris, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Michel Euler/AP Photo)

President Emmanuel Macron made a speech in 2017 in which he said he can no longer accept that a large part of many African countries cultural heritage lies in France. It laid down a roadmap for the return of the royal treasures taken during the era of empire and colony.

So far, however, France has only turned over one itema storied sword handed to the Army Museum in Senegal. And the 26 works going to Benin represent a tiny handful of the more than 90,000 artifacts from sub-Saharan Africa alone held in French museums.

Yet critics of such movesincluding Londons British Museum, in a decades-long tug-of-war with the Greek government over a restitution of the Elgin Marblesargue that it will open the floodgates to emptying Western museums of their collections. Many are made up of objects acquired, or stolen, during colonial times.

French Culture Minister Roselyne Bachelot tried to assuage jitters among European museums, emphasizing that this initiative will not create a legal precedent.

A French law was passed last year to allow the restitution of the statues to Benin, and the sword to Senegal.

But she said that the French governments law was intentionally specific in applying solely to the 27 artifacts. [It] does not establish any general right to restitution and in no way calls into question the right of French museums to hold on to their heritage.

The story of the Abomey Treasures is as dramatic as their sculpted forms. In November 1892, Colonel Alfred Dodds led a pilfering French expeditionary force into the Kingdom of Danhome located in the south of present-day Benin. The colonizing troops broke into the Abomey Palace, home of King Behanzin, seizing as they did many royal objects including the 26 artifacts that Dodds donated to the Musee dEthnographie du Trocadero in Paris in the 1890s. Since the 2000s, the objects have been housed at the Musee du quai BranlyJacques Chirac.

One hundred and twenty nine years later, their far-flung journey abroad will finally end.

Benins Culture Minister Jean-Michel Abimbola called the return of the works a historic milestone, and the beginning of further cooperation between the two countries, during a news conference last week. The country is founding a museum in Abomey to house the treasures that will be partly funded by the French government. The French Development Agency will give some 35 million euros toward the Museum of the Saga of the Amazonians and the Danhome Kings under a pledge signed this year.

The official transfer of the 26 pieces is expected to be signed in Paris on Nov. 9 in the presence of Macron, and the art is expected to be in Benin a few days later, Abimbola said.

While locals say the decision is overdue, whats important is that the art will be returned. It was a vacuum created among Benins historical treasures, which is gradually being reconstituted, said Fortune Sossa, President of the African Cultural Journalists Network.

By Thomas Adamson
Illegal aliens stuck along the Poland-Belarus border carry plastic water bottles as they are surrounded by Polish forces in Usnarz Gorny, Poland, on Sept. 1, 2021. (Czarek Sokolowski/Reuters)

2 Polish Troops Hurt as Illegal Immigrants Try Forcing Belarus Border

WARSAW, PolandOfficials in Poland said on Monday that two soldiers were lightly hurt when a group of some 60 illegal aliens tried to force their way across the border from Belarus.

The Border Guards office said the troopswho have been deployed to help protect the European Unions eastern border from growing illegal immigration pressurewere treated at a hospital for facial injuries following the events Sunday near the village of Usnarz Gorny.

They said in a statement that the illegal aliens were throwing stones and wielding branches. That part of the border is in a dense forest that also includes bogs. Most of the border with Belarus runs along the Bug river.

A video showing men trying to break the razor wire border fence with a branch and helmeted Polish troops watching from nearby was posted on the Border Guards website.

Poland and the Baltic states, which are members of the European Union, are facing pressure on their borders with Belarus. They say the government in Minsk is facilitating crossings for illegal aliens, mostly from the Middle East and Africa, in order to destabilize the bloc in retaliation for Western sanctions.

Poland has built a fence on the border and put some 7,000 guards, troops, and police to prevent crossings, and is pushing back those who cross, but thousands are still getting through. Most are heading toward Germany.

A group of some 30 migrants that had been stranded in the border strip since August is no longer there, the Border Guards statement said. It said some of them were recognized in the group that tried to force the border Sunday.

Polish security forces block illegal aliens stuck on the border with Belarus in Usnarz Gorny, Poland, on Sept. 1, 2021. (Czarek Sokolowski/Reuters)

On Saturday a group of women, including two of Polands former first ladies, Jolanta Kwasniewska and Anna Komorowska, protested near the border against pushing the illegal border-crossersincluding women and childreninto the forest, back to Belarus.

A number of migrants have been found dead close to the border. Humanitarian organizations active in the are have reported finding migrant groups with children who had spent days in the forest.

Polands security officials have said that migrants can pay up to $12,000 in their home countries to people promising to get them to the EU, preferably to Germany.

Deputy interior minister, Bartosz Grodecki has said that Poland is seeking cooperation with the European border agency Frontex to arrange readmission, or return flights directly to migrants home countries, according to the English-language service of Polands state PAP news agency.

Illegal aliens who cross into Poland can ask for international protection, which would cover all of the EU. While waiting for a decision, which is most often a refusal, they are placed in guarded centers for foreigners. They mostly come from Iraq, Iran, and Syria.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews speaks to the media on Oct. 17, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. He announced that Victoria's Lockdown will end at 11.59 p.m. on Oct. 21, with ten visitors allowed at your home per day and groups of up to 15 people allowed to get together in a public gathering. (Photo by Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Hefty Fines, 2-Year Jail Terms Loom in New Australian Pandemic Bill

Residents in the Australian state of Victoria face prison time or massive fines of up to AU$90,000 (US$67,570) if they are deemed to have failed to comply with government-mandated health orders and pose a risk to the health of others, according to a measure rushed before the states Parliament on Oct. 26.

The Public Health and Wellbeing (Pandemic Management) Bill 2021 (pdf) was introduced by the governments Health Minister Martin Foley and aims to supersede the State of Emergency powers that are currently provided under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008, which was due to expire at the end of the year.

These powers have been extended twice so far and have given the state government authority to impose public health restrictions such as lockdowns, mask mandates, shutting businesses, and domestic border closures.

However, the new Bill grants permanent, extraordinary powers to the health minister and Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews, as well as a range of hefty new penalties to ensure compliance.

Victorian Premier, Daniel Andrews, Health Minister, Martin Foley and Victorian COVID-19 Testing Commander, Jeroen Weimar arrive at the daily press conference on July 27, 2021 in Melbourne, Australia. (Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Individuals found refusing or failing to comply with a pandemic order risk being fined 120 penalty units, or AU$21,809 (US$16,375), while a business or body corporate could be fined $109,044 (US$81,873)the value of these fines are similar to those recently introduced by Western Australian Premier Mark McGowan.

Meanwhile an aggravated offence under the bill, which includes not only a failure to comply with a pandemic order, but where it is also deemed that an individual knewor ought to have knownthat their behaviour could cause a serious risk to the health of another individual faces two-years imprisonment or an AU$90,870 (500 penalty units) fine.

For businesses, the penalty is an AU$454,350 (US$342,000) fine. In Victoria, a penalty unit equates to $181.74 and is adjusted annually.

Along with these fines, the premier will have the power to declare a pandemic and to extend it for a period of three months at a time. However, there is no limit on the number of extensionssuch a law in practice could see Victoria placed under lockdown at the discretion of the premier.

Read More Australian State Leaders Push for Unprecedented Power to Impose Lockdowns

Further, while the chief health officer previously signed off on public health orders, the proposal would shift this power to the health minister instead, giving him broad power to make pandemic orders where it was deemed necessary to protect public healththis is predicated on advice from the chief health officer.

A summary of the measure states that pandemic orders could be targeted and differentiated between different classes of people based on their supposed risk to public health, and even their vaccination status.

The proposal would also establish an independent oversight committee to review the public orders and their effects on human rights, while public health advice would need to be publicised. Further, additional safeguards will be legislated around data collected by contact tracing.

Andrews says the bill was created through consultation and with the support of community bodies, legal bodies, human rights groups, and the crossbench. It has the support of the Greens Party and independent parties, the Animal Justice Party and Reason Party.

Nevertheless, the legislation has been met with a storm of criticism.

Matthew Guy, leader of the opposition Liberal Party, said he had never seen such an attack on Australian democracy.

This is an extraordinary, extreme legislation that comes despite the government committing last week that theyd never lock us down again. Well, if theyll never lock us down again, why do you need laws as extreme as this? he told 3AW radio.

They say theres an independent committeethe independent committee is appointed by the premier. So, you have an independent committee appointed by the person its meant to somehow be a watchdog against, Guy said.

Theres no reference in this legislation at all to the Cabinet, therefore, theres no Cabinet scrutiny. Its all about one man, the premier; theres no oversight by the Parliament as youd expect, he added.

Dont stand there and let our democracy be destroyed, he said, calling on the public to be vocal about the issue to friends and online.

Rod Barton, leader of the Transport Matters Party in the upper house of the state Parliament, said he wasnt consulted, despite claims the crossbench support the bill.

I did not support the state of emergency the first two times it came before Parliament and I will not be supporting it this time, he said in a video on Twitter, but noted that it appeared that the government already had support from the required number of MPs to pass the measure.

It appears the negotiations have already been settled and they have the three votes. It is now out of our hands.

Samantha Ratnam, leader of the Victorian Greens, said in a press release, Weve negotiated with the government to create new laws which are a big improvement and much fairer for the whole Victorian community.

Im pleased that the Greens have been able to make sure these new laws have more transparency and are fairer for all Victorians, especially those facing disadvantage, she added, noting that the laws would offer greater protection to QR code data and greater scrutiny from an independent panel that includes experts in human rights and health.

David Limbrick, upper house MP of the Victorian Parliament, however, disagreed.

The Greens have zero credibility on human rights. What did they do after the housing tower lockdown disaster? Support more of the same, the Liberal Democrat wrote on Twitter. What did they do when people protested against human rights abuses? Smeared them as right wing extremists.'

Morgan Begg, director of the Legal Rights Program at the Institute of Public Affairs in Melbourne warned the law would end democratic government in Victoria.

This Bill would appear to give the government, and the premier alone, permanent power to exercise tyrannical emergency powers, he said in a press release issued to The Epoch Times.

This must end now. We can never again go through what this government is doing to Victorians, he added. The governments ability to declare emergencies and exercise emergency powers must be curtailed immediately.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey signs a bill into law to ban vaccine passports on May 24, 2021. (Courtesy of Gov. Kay Ivey's Office)

Alabama Governor Signs Order to Fight Federal Vaccine Mandate

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey (R) signed an executive order Monday to demand state agencies do not comply with federal coronavirus vaccine mandates.

Executive Order 724 declares the nonenforcement of federal COVID-19 vaccination mandates effective immediately across the state.

Effective immediately, no agency, department, board, commission, or other entity within the executive branch of state government shall, under color of state law, seek to impose a penalty on any business or individual for noncompliance, the order said.

Iveys written statement released with Mondays order declared the vaccine mandates outrageous overreach.

The federal governments outrageous overreach has simply given us no other option, but to begin taking action, which is why I am issuing this executive order to fight these egregious COVID-19 vaccine mandates. Alabamiansand Americans alikeshould and must have the choice to roll up their sleeves to get this shot and certainly not forced by government, Ivey wrote.

While President Biden laughs at the idea of protecting your freedoms, I will continue fighting for Alabama businesses and their employees, the governor added.

Ivey also said the Biden White House has once again failed Americans.

If the federal government presses on with these new federal mandates, then the Biden White House has once again failed the American people. As I have stated, no doubt, this will be challenged in federal courts, the governor wrote.

Ivey specifically declared that as governor, she will not force anyone to receive a COVID-19 vaccination.

I am adamantly opposed to federal mandates related to the COVID-19 vaccine and adamantly opposed to state mandates related to the COVID-19 vaccine, plain and simple. As long as I am your governor, the state of Alabama will not force anyone to take a COVID-19 vaccine, she wrote.

Through todays order, the state of Alabama is making our position on this issue crystal clear. A state law in response to President Biden is not enough. The courts are where this will be resolved. Today is one step in this fight, but certainly not the last, Ivey added.

The governor concluded her statement by noting the people of her state are overwhelmingly opposed to coronavirus vaccine mandates.

Alabamians are overwhelmingly opposed to these outrageous, Biden mandates, and I stand firmly with them, Ivey wrote.

The governors executive order adds to similar actions by other states. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R) also recently issued an executive order to oppose any entity in the Lone Star State from enforcing a COVID-19 vaccine mandate or requiring proof of vaccination.

Floridas Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has also recently spoken out on the coronavirus vaccine mandates. He has called a special session of the states lawmakers to consider a law to ban mandates that he considers a risk to workers and businesses.
Hamptons International Film Festival Chairman Alec Baldwin attends the World Premiere of National Geographic Documentary Films' 'The First Wave' at Hamptons International Film Festival in East Hampton, N.Y., on Oct. 7 , 2021. (Mark Sagliocco/Getty Images for National Geographic)

Alan Dershowitz Weighs in on Whether Alec Baldwin Shooting Is a Homicide

Harvard law professor Alan Dershowitz said that the on-set killing of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins may be deemed a homicide amid an ongoing investigation into the matter.

Actor and co-producer Alec Baldwin allegedly shot and killed Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza while filming Western drama Rust in New Mexico. Court documents said that Baldwin was handed a cold gun, meaning a gun that didnt have live rounds, when the incident occurred on Oct. 21.

Dershowitz, in an opinion article for The Hill, wrote that guidelines seem not to have been followed in this case, and the existing guidelines seem insufficient to prevent accidents like this.

It is likely, therefore, that the killing of Halyna Hutchins could constitute a homicidethat is, a criminal killing, added Dershowitz, a criminal defense lawyer who has represented the likes of Mike Tyson, Jim Bakker, and Jeffrey Epstein. The remaining questions are who might be criminally responsible for the killing and what degree of homicide fits the evidence?

And, he added that it appears Baldwin was not aware that he was firing a gun capable of expelling a lethal projectile, adding that his role reportedly was not limited to passively being an actor; he may have had some responsibility as one of several producers of the film.

The nature of the role of producers varies from film to film, and it is unlikely that Baldwins role included responsibility for set safety, said Dershowitz, who also represented former President Donald Trump during his first impeachment trial in the Senate.

Attorney and law professor Alan Dershowitz is seen in Washington on Jan. 29, 2020. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)

But some may think that it was not simply enough for him to accept the word of an assistant director about the guns safety that he perhaps should have independently inspected the gun before firing it, he said. It is unlikely, however, that such an omission would result in criminal responsibility.

It comes as a camera operator told officials that Baldwin was typically careful with firearms on set, according to court records. Baldwin has not been charged with a crime, and no civil lawsuits have been filed against him.

Cameraman Reid Russell told investigators that Baldwin was rehearsing a scene in which he draws his gun and points it at the camera. But he said it wasnt clear whether the gun was checked before it was handed to Baldwin, according to the court documents.

Joel stated that they had Alec sitting in a pew in a church building setting, and he was practicing a cross draw. Joel said he was looking over the shoulder of [Hutchins] when he heard what sounded like a whip and then loud pop, an Oct. 24 affidavit reads. Hutchins was shot in the chest, the documents said.

After the incident, Baldwin wrote on Twitter on Oct. 22 that hes cooperating with the investigation and expressed his condolences to Hutchins family.

The court papers did not list whether Baldwin has an attorney.
Alberta Premier Jason Kenney walks away after holding a press conference in Edmonton on Sept. 21, 2021. (The Canadian Press/Jason Franson)

Albertans Vote to Scrap Equalization

Over 60 percent of Albertans have voted to remove the principle of equalization from the Constitution.

A clear majority of Albertans have sent a powerful message to the rest of Canada on equalization, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney said on social media.

This strong democratic expression gives Albertas government a renewed mandate to pursue a fair deal for all Albertans.

The results of the Oct. 18 poll, held in conjunction with municipal and school board elections across the province, were released on Oct. 26.

The results are in! A clear majority of Albertans have sent a powerful message to the rest of Canada on equalization. This strong democratic expression gives Albertas government a renewed mandate to pursue a fair deal for all Albertans. pic.twitter.com/1AKFuVoX8a  Jason Kenney (@jkenney) October 26, 2021

A second referendum question on keeping daylight time year-round failed by a small margin, 49.9 percent to 50.1 percent.

Equalization

The referendum to remove equalization, an election promise by Kenneys UCP government in 2019, received approval from 62 percent of voters.

There has been long-standing grievance in Alberta over the redistribution of wealth to other provinces under the equalization scheme, as contributions from energy-rich Alberta make up a sizeable portion of the payments to other provinces. Low oil prices in recent years has served to increase the opposition.

To decide which provinces can receive an equalization payment, Ottawa measures each provinces ability to raise tax revenues and compares that ability to other provinces. If a province lacks the ability to raise sufficient tax revenues to provide a reasonable level of public service compared to other provinces, that province will receive an equalization payment from the federal government.

Kenney has said that the referendum vote per se does not give Alberta the power to unilaterally remove the principle from the Constitution, but it does give the province more leverage to get others on board to remove it.

A yes vote on the principle of equalization does not automatically change equalization, it doesnt remove it from the Constitution. We cannot do that unilaterally, Kenney said in July.

What it does is to elevate Albertas fight for fairness to the top of the national agenda. In a sense, it takes a page out of Quebecs playbook.

With files from The Canadian Press
Jack Ma, CEO of Alibaba, speaks during his visit at the Vivatech startups and innovation fair in Paris, on May 16, 2019. (Philippe Lopez/AFP via Getty Images)

Alibaba Stock Loses $344 Billion in a Year in Historic Wipeout

In just a year, Alibaba Group Holding Limited has lost around $344 billion in market capitalization, the largest-ever decline in shareholder value globally, reports Bloomberg.

Last year, Alibaba founder Jack Ma faced summons from the Chinese authorities when they suspended the listing of Alibabas fintech arm Ant Group.

With that, Alibabas shares started sinking and authorities urged a restructure of its fintech business. The stock remains 43 percent lower than its October 2020 peak.

According to a Wall Street Journal report, Alibabas share of Chinas retail e-commerce market has fallen from 78 percent in 2015 to a projected 51 percent in 2021.

However, the recent reports that Ma was in Europe have led to a 6 percent jump in the companys shares.

Alibaba is facing growing competition in the market as well.

A shift in the consumer shopping format moving from search to browsing has worked against Alibaba.

In May, Chief Executive Daniel Zhang named increased competition as one of the companys biggest obstacles of the past year.

Any profit that exceeded last years would be poured back into improving its e-commerce businesses, Zhang said.

Alibaba is investing more in content creation, live-streaming, and discount goods to gain momentum and tap this area.

Alibaba is set to report earnings on Nov. 5.

By Bibhu Pattnaik

 2021 The Epoch Times. The Epoch Times does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Opponents of the Keystone XL pipeline demonstrate on a pedestrian bridge during rush hour in Omaha, Nebraska, on Nov. 1, 2017. The pipeline was cancelled by U.S. President Joe Biden immediately after taking office in January 2021. (The Canadian Press/AP, Nati Harnik)

Allan Inquiry: US NGO Claimed Role in Defeating Conservative Party in 2015

Alberta government inquiry sheds light on foreign funding used to thwart provinces energy sector

In 2016, a foreign-based organization financed by foreign-based foundations claimed the anti-pipeline campaign it co-ordinated played a role in helping to unseat the Conservative Party in Alberta and nationally.

This finding was among the examples of political activism by environmental groups revealed in the Alberta governments inquiry into campaigns against the provinces energy sector, released on Oct. 21.

Conducted by forensic accountant Steve Allan, the inquiry found that the campaigns received direction and funding from foreign entities.

The 2016 claim about unseating the Conservative Party was made by the U.S.-based NGO Corporate Ethics International, now known as CorpEthics. The posting is no longer available on the organizations website, but can be found using internet archiving services to look at previous versions of the page.

The posting describes the Tar Sands Campaign launched in 2008 as a strategy to land-lock the tar sands so their crude could not reach the international market where it could fetch a high price per barrel. This meant national and grassroots organizing to block all proposed pipelines. It said the strategy has been successful to this day, with all proposed pipelines in Canada having been blocked.

The version of the page available today says the campaign successfully educated citizens about the harmful impact of tar sands expansion to our climate, native forests, and First Nations sovereignty, and says the campaign successfully persuaded President Obama to block the Keystone XL pipeline.

The Epoch Times contacted CorpEthics for comment but didnt hear back.

US Funders

Allans report outlines that CorpEthics was the recipient of grants, with most noting in their descriptions that they were destined for the Tar Sands Campaign. The grants came in large part from two major U.S. foundations, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund (RBF) and the Tides Foundation.

Between the two, they granted CorpEthics US$3.13 million between 2007 and 2011, with funds destined for the Tar Sands Campaign or organizing on dirty fuels.

The Tides Foundation is described by non-profit Influence Watch as a major center-left grantmaking organization and a major pass-through funder to numerous left-leaning nonprofits. Its operating mechanism allows donors to remain anonymous while being allowed to direct money to their preferred causes using donor advised funds.

The RBF is one of the various funds held by the well-known Rockefeller family, which made its initial fortune in the oil industry. The foundations stated purpose is advancing social change that contributes to a more just, sustainable, and peaceful world.

In 2014, the RBF announced it was divesting from fossil fuels, citing the environment as one of its most enduring commitments. The Funds exposure to coal and tar sands has been reduced to 0.04 percent of our total portfolio. (At the time of the RBFs first comprehensive analysis of its exposure in April 2014, it was 1.6 percent), its website says.



A review of the foundations latest available tax filings in 2019 shows it had investments in a number of companies in the oil sector and related industries.

As of December 2019, the RBF held 59,500 shares in Alberta oilsands company Suncor Energy Inc., for a market value of US$1.89 million. It also held 261,595 shares in British Petroleum, for a market value of US$1.62 million, and 45,303 shares in Halliburton, a major oilfield services company valued at US$1.1 million in 2019, among other oil-related investments.

The RBFs portfolio is very diversified, with its single largest financial stake in corporate stocks being Microsoft at a value of $8.5 million in 2019.

DivestmentFacts.com, a project of the Independent Petroleum Association of America, wrote in 2020 that it had examined RBFs divestment and found out that despite RBFs best efforts, the group still invests with the industry that made them rich in the first place.

DivestmentFacts labelled the foundations divestment campaign as a PR stunt to capitalize the familys name without really making substantial changes.

The Epoch Times reached out to RBF for comment but didnt receive a reply.

Tar Sands Campaign

The 2016 CorpEthics webpage on the Tar Sands Campaign states that in 2008, two major U.S. foundations asked CorpEthics to recruit the groups, develop the strategy, create a coordinated campaign, and act as a re-granting agency for the North American Tar Sands Campaign.

The Allan inquiry found two documents from 2008 that likely established the strategy to lead the campaign.

One was a PowerPoint presentation titled The Tar Sands Campaign jointly sponsored by RBF, CorpEthics, the National Resources Defence Council, and the Pembina Institute, with the latter being the only Canada-based entity.

The other document, Tar Sands Campaign Strategy 2.1, was produced by CorpEthics, and Allans report says its the most detailed of the early Tar Sands Campaign material.

The CorpEthics document states that the campaign is large and complex, with multiple actors and strategic tracks, and therefore needs a co-ordinating structure.

While NGOs generally prefer a network structure that allows for maximum communication, and minimal centralized control, foundations investing most heavily in the campaign have a vested interest in exercising some control over the process, the document says, as quoted in Allans report.

It is also stated that the co-ordinating structure shall remain invisible to the outside and to the extent possible, staff will be purchased from engaged organizations.

According to the report, the strategy outlined in the documents advanced on five tracks: stop/limit pipeline and refinery expansion; force tar sands water, toxics, and land reform; significantly reduce future demand for tar sands oil; leverage tar sands debate for policy victories in the U.S. and Canada; and generate unity around the fuels endgame.

The tactics used are also detailed in the report and cover a range of activities, from targeting the financial community to direct action, from litigation to political activism.

On political activism, the CorpEthics document says the aim is to enroll key decision makers while isolating opponents.

We will win this campaign when we recruit a critical mass of these decision makers to agree to slow down, cut-back, and eventually stop the flow of tar sands oil altogether, it says.

LeadNows Political Activism

The Allan inquiry also identified a number of Canadian organizations involved in what it calls anti-Alberta energy activities.

It said LeadNow, which runs campaigns on progressive issues like climate change, engages in activities to influence political outcomes and pressure entities involved in the oil industry.

LeadNow launched its Vote Together campaign in 2015 to defeat the Harper Conservatives. Its website notes that 25 out of 29 Liberal and NDP candidates it was backing in Conservative swing ridings won in the election that year.

A post-election summary of the campaign titled Defeating Harper: Reflections on the Vote Together campaign, says it was an ambitious strategy and for a first time effort, it paid off well.

The Allan report says the Tides Foundation gave a grant of $86,751 to LeadNow in 2014 for research, education and organizing on dirty fuels and pipelines. It is unknown if any of those funds were used to unseat the Conservatives. A request for comment sent to LeadNow was unanswered as of press time.

Energy Crisis

The ultimate goal of the Tar Sands Campaign was always to landlock Albertas oil and gas, said Alberta Energy Minister Sonya Savage when releasing the inquirys report on Oct. 21.

We saw it play out step by step and it continues today. Divestment campaigns operating today have claimed to achieve over 1,000 divestments from fossil fuels, representing $8 trillion.



Savage said U.S. President Joe Biden has pleaded for more OPEC oil to rescue his country from high fuel prices, but if Canada could have provided Americans with a stable source of energy from a trusted friend and ally  we could have avoided this energy crisis.

Americans are looking for someone to blame for todays skyrocketing energy prices. I know a few organizations in this report that they could thank for that, she said.

The climate change objectives of the Canadian and U.S. federal governments also see affordability and energy independence take a back seat.

On his first day as president, Biden cancelled anew the Keystone XL pipeline, which his predecessor Donald Trump had authorized after Obamas 2015 cancellation.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said in early October: Certainly we all want to keep gasoline prices low, but the threat of the climate crisis certainly cant wait any longer.
Americans Must Recognize the Manipulative Narratives That Justify Socialism: Morgan Zegers

Young Americans must learn from history and recognize the manipulative and distorted narratives that justify socialism, says Morgan Zegers, founder of Young Americans Against Socialism.

Zegers said she believes the country is seeing the early stages of socialism, and that Americans must connect the dots of the same promises that were promised to the Cubans in the early ages, before people lived under the rule of the Castro dictatorship.

Were seeing those early rumblings of a rise of a leftist regime is what I would say, theres a checklist in history of what really happens in a country that totalitarianism that rises, the authoritarianism and of course, the economic step, which is socialism, Zegers told EpochTVs Crossroads.

Promises made in Cuba when Fidel Castro, Che Guevara, and the rest of the Castro regime were rising to power are being mirrored today in the United States said Zegers, who runs Young Americans Against Socialisma nonpartisan nonprofit dedicated to exposing socialisms failures by creating viral educational videos for social media.

The rising Castro regime normalized the concept of forced wealth redistribution by stealing animals from wealthier farmers giving them to the working class in the town, promising more if they supported their movement, Zegers explained.

In America, today, were hearing those same promises, but we hear it with things like the student loan crisis. They say, just give me power, and Im going to take from those evil rich people that have way too much money and give it to you because thats whats fair and moral and right. All you have to do is vote for me, she said.

These promises, Zegers said, have also normalized the concept of forced wealth redistribution amongst the younger generation.

We dont have those red flags going off in our head when we hear those promises. And I think thats leading to what were facing now with 70 percent of young Americans being willing to vote for a socialist, she said.

Zegers said the narrative that socialism will work in the United States is very manipulative and distorted.

We say socialism has been tried two dozen times, and were still hearing people want to try it again. What we need to really connect the dots for young Americans minds is why it doesnt work.

Her remarks come in the wake of recent anti-communist protests in Cuba. In July, thousands of Cubans took to the streets in several cities and shouted Diaz-Canel step down, referring to dictator and Communist Party chief Miguel Diaz-Canel. They demanded greater freedoms and an end to the regime.

Protests in #Cuba arent simply about shortages, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) said on Twitter at the time. Socialism promises guaranteed food, medicine & income if you give up your freedom. When, as always, it fails to deliver you dont get your freedom back. Thats why the protestors are chanting Libertad.

Last year Cubas economy contracted 10.9 percent, and 2 percent through June this year, leading to shortages that forced Cubans to queue for hours for essential items throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

The best thing we can do is make sure the very basic information of history is understood. If we dont learn from it, well repeat it, Zegers added. And were seeing that in America today, so I hope people can understand we need red flags to go off in our head before we keep falling for it anymore.

Watch part of the interview with Zeger below.

Isabel van Brugen Reporter Follow Isabel van Brugen is an award-winning journalist and currently a news reporter at The Epoch Times. She holds a master's in newspaper journalism from City, University of London.
People attend a Peace Vigil for Victims of Asian Hate at Union Square in New York City on March 19, 2021. (Chung I Ho/The Epoch Times)

Asian Americans Question LA County Report on Rise in Anti-Asian Hate Crimes

A new Los Angeles County report (pdf) identifies a significant rise in anti-Asian hate crimes, but critics say the crimes may not be race-motivated.

The Los Angeles County Commission on Human Relations released a statement Oct. 20 showing a total of 44 anti-Asian crimes reported in 2020a 76 percent increase from the previous years data.

If the system examines everything through the lens of race, that will make things worse including crime rates and hate crimes, Frank Xu, president of the non-profit organization Californians for Equal Rights and co-founder of San Diego Asian Americans for Equality, told The Epoch Times.

As a longtime social activist, Xu has been closely working with his community in fighting for equal rights for Californians.

Xu said that whenever he heard such talk from his friends, he would encourage them to attribute the cause of the crime to ones race only if they exhaust all other assumptions.

When I lived in China, I experienced conflicts with others. In a homogeneous country, no one would say it is racism, Xu said. In America with the current environment, its so easy for people to blame the conflicts on racism.

The Department of Justice defines a hate crime as a crime that is motivated by bias against race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability.

According to LA County Sheriffs Department, a hate crime will be considered when one acts against anothers religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, disability, or association with a specific group.

Anthony Lim, who immigrated to the United States forty years ago said he feels safe in his community and never heard of racial profiling until the Obama administration took over the office.

He believes that when these crimes occur it is very hard to identify whether it is a hate crime. Sometimes the victims just happened to be the easy targets to the suspects.

It is just one person doing harm to another person.  Sometimes you must assess the situation yourself, so you dont become a victim of crime, Lim told The Epoch Times.

Kristy Hu, a recent college graduate from University of CaliforniaLos Angeles said she has become more self-conscious after seeing videos of Asian women being attacked at a supermarket.

Hu said she felt venerable when she went out to a market or a gas station.

I think the right way to go about it is to focus that the Asian community does get targeted, and they are being unfairly used as a scapegoat for causing coronavirus. This gives racist people an excuse to act out their thoughts, Hu told The Epoch Times.

The data used for analysis in the report were collected based on the hate crimes reported to the Sheriffs Department from over 40 city police departments, police agencies in schools, and community-based organizations.

The report indicated the number of anti-Asian hate crimes being reported this year is the largest number since 2001, when there was a total of 80 anti-Asian racial hate crimes reported.

The report found that in the cases in which the suspects were identified, 42 percent were white, 36 percent Latino, and 19 percent African American. In the previous year, the largest number of suspects involved in anti-Asian hate crimes were Latino.

Michael Kapp, a spokesperson for LA County, said the countys Human Relations Commission released the report specifically on Asian hate crimes, as opposed to all hate crimes, because of the significant increase in reported anti-Asian hate crimes.

Kapp said a full report, which will include hate crimes against all races, will be released in November.
The North Fork of the Kaweah River, which flows from Sequoia National Park, is swollen with frothy, black water, in Three Rivers, Calif. on Oct. 25, 2021. (Brian Melley/AP Photo)

Atmospheric River Drenches Drought-Stricken California

SAN FRANCISCOA powerful atmospheric river storm that swept through California set rainfall records and helped douse wildfires. But it remained to be seen how much of a dent it made in the states drought.

The weather system weakened as it moved south but still dropped enough rain Monday evening to cause mudslides that closed roads in the San Bernardino Mountains northeast of Los Angeles.

The atmospheric river storm, a long and wide plume of moisture pulled in from the Pacific, came ashore in Northern California over the weekend.

Drenching rains caused widespread flooding and rock slides. Strong winds knocked down trees and toppled two big trucks on the RichmondSan Rafael Bridge near San Francisco. Pacific Gas & Electric reported that 646,000 homes and businesses lost power, though most had it back by Monday.

By early Tuesday, light rain and snow were still falling in northern parts of California and the lone remaining flood warning was in Sonoma County north of San Francisco, where stream levels were slow to fall.

Despite the problems, the rain and mountain snow were welcome in Northern California, which is so dry that nearly all of it is classified as either experiencing extreme or exceptional drought.

The wet weather also greatly reduces the chances of additional wildfires in a region that has borne the brunt of another devastating year of blazes in the state.

The National Weather Service called preliminary rainfall totals from the storm staggering. Four inches (10 centimeters) fell Sunday in downtown San Francisco, making it the fourth-wettest day on record for the city.

Its been a memorable past 24 hours for the Bay Area as the long-talked-about atmospheric river rolled through the region, the local weather office said Monday. We literally have gone from fire/drought conditions to flooding in one storm cycle.

Northeast of San Francisco, 5.44 inches (13.82 centimeters) fell on downtown Sacramento, shattering the one-day record for rainfall that had stood since 1880.

A flooded sign remains after water had receded on C Street in San Rafael, Calif., on Oct. 25, 2021. (Alan Dep/Marin Independent Journal via AP)

Along the states central coast, nearly 5.4 inches (13.72 centimeters) of rain was recorded at California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo County. In Southern California, 1.1 inches (2.79 centimeters) fell in Beverly Hills.

Interstate 80, the major highway through the Sierra Nevada Mountains to Reno, Nevada, was closed by heavy snow early Monday. In Californias Colusa and Yolo counties, state highways 16 and 20 were shut for several miles because of mudslides, the state Department of Transportation said.

The same storm system also slammed Oregon and Washington state, causing power outages affecting tens of thousands of people. Two people were killed when a tree fell on a vehicle in the greater Seattle area.

Water levels at Lake Oroville, a major Northern California reservoir, rose 20 feet (6.10 meters) over the past week, according to the states Department of Water Resource. Most of the increase came between Saturday and Monday during the height of the storm, KHSL-TV reported.

Justin Mankin, a geography professor at Dartmouth College and co-lead of the Drought Task Force at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said the cycle of going from years-long drought to record-breaking downpours is expected to continue.

While this rain is welcome, it comes with these hazards, and it wont necessarily end the drought, Mankin said. California still needs more precipitation, and it really needs it in high elevations and spread out over a longer time so its not hazardous.

Christy Brigham, chief of resource management and science at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, said the rain was a big relief after the Caldor Fire torched an unknown number of the giant trees in the park, along with thousands of pines and cedars.

A wind surfer surfs in the rain in Long Beach, Calif., on Oct. 25, 2021. (Brittany Murray/The Orange County Register via AP)

This amount of rainfall is what we call a season-ending event, Brigham said. It should end fire season, and it should end our needto a large degreeto fight this fire.

The Caldor Fire has burned for more than two months and in early September prompted the unprecedented evacuation of the entire city of South Lake Tahoe, a major tourism destination. Firefighters now consider the fire fully contained. That status also now applies to the Dixie Fire, the second-largest in state history at just under 1,563 square miles (4,048 square kilometers).

Over the weekend, the California Highway Patrol closed a stretch of State Route 70 in Butte and Plumas counties because of multiple landslides within the massive Dixie Fire burn scar.

Cal Fire, the state firefighting agency, did not declare the wildfire season over or cut staffing to lower winter levels.

Wed like to see some more rain coming our way before we look at reducing staffing, spokesman Isaac Sanchez said.

The long-term weather forecast for California suggests drier-than-normal conditions, Mankin said.

To end different aspects of the drought, you are going to need a situation where parts of California get precipitation over the next three months thats about 200 percent of normal, he said, adding that despite this really, really insane rainfall, the winter is probably going to be drier than average.

By Olga R. Rodriguez
Attorneys Argue on Use-of-Force Experts at Rittenhouse Trial

MADISON, Wis.A judge was hearing arguments Monday over whether use-of-force experts can testify at Kyle Rittenhouses trial for shooting three people during a protest against police brutality in Wisconsin last year.

The hearing is likely the last before Rittenhouse goes on trial Nov. 1 for the shootings during chaotic demonstrations in Kenosha on Aug. 25, 2020, two days after a police officer in that city shot a Jacob Blake in the back while responding to a domestic disturbance.

Rittenhouse, 18, of Antioch, Illinois, was among a number of people who responded to calls on social media to take up arms and come to Kenosha to respond to the protests. Rittenhouse is charged with homicide and other crimes in the fatal shootings of Joseph Rosenbaum and Anthony Huber and the wounding of Gaige Grosskreutz.

Rittenhouses attorneys are seeking testimony from use-of-force expert John Black to bolster their case that Rittenhouse acted in self-defense. Prosecutors have asked Judge Bruce Schroeder to disqualify Black, arguing that his expertise is in police, not civilian, use of force and is not relevant to Rittenhouses actions.

Black previewed his testimony at a hearing in early October. Mondays hearing will include testimony from Robert Willis, a use-of-force expert whom Assistant District Attorney Thomas Binger has said he will use if Black is allowed to testify.

Binger argued Monday that the jury doesnt need testimony from use-of-force experts on either side to decide whether Rittenhouses actions on Aug. 25 were reasonable. Jurors can watch video from that night, hear from witnesses and attorneys and draw their own conclusions, Binger said.

Rittenhouse attorney Mark Richards pushed back, arguing that the experts could aid in the jurors understanding. And he said there likely would be several points of contention over what video shows.

Other motions remain for Schroeder to decide before trial. One, from prosecutors, asks Schroeder to forbid defense attorneys from describing the three men Rittenhouse shot as rioters, looters, or arsonists. Binger argues theres no proof any of the three were engaged in such activities the night they were shot.

Prosecutors also want Schroeder to block any reference to Rosenbaums and Hubers criminal records.

They are also seeking to stop the defense from introducing any evidence that police offered water to Rittenhouse and other armed citizens, or that they said, We appreciate you guys, we really do, to them. They also want to block testimony about one officers innocuous interactions with Rittenhouse that night.

Binger argued Monday that the defense wants to put police, rather than Rittenhouse, on trial by suggesting they had some sort of implicit or express approval of Rittenhouses actions that night.

This is a case about what the defendant did that night, he said.

Corey Chirafisi, another attorney for Rittenhouse, argued that prosecutors had charged Rittenhouse with acting recklessly, making his interactions with police relevant in deciding whether his behavior was reckless.

Many conservatives have flocked to support Rittenhouse, calling him a patriot and making him a symbol for gun rights and raising $2 million for his bail. Others, including some liberals and activists, portray him as a domestic terrorist and say he made a volatile situation worse.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Victorian police maintain a heavy presence outside the Melbourne Magistrates Court in Victoria, Australia, on Apr. 3, 2006. (William West/AFP via Getty Images)

Australian Police Force to Pay $11 Million Settlement to Quadriplegic Man

Victoria Police will pay about $11.8 million to a man who was left permanently paralysed after officers allegedly used excessive force to restrain him.

In a settlement filed with the Supreme Court of Victoria, Chris Karadaglis claimed that he was at his home in November 2017, in Warrnambool in the southwest of the state, when three police officers visited his premises in response to a noise complaint.

It was alleged that police then forcibly removed him from his home.

He was placed in a headlock by one of the officers with the officer applying increasing force to the plaintiffs neck, according to court documents obtained by AAP.

During the physical restraint of the plaintiff, one or more of the officers applied excessive force to the plaintiff who suffered devastating injury to his cervical spine.

Karadaglis is now a quadriplegic and claims to have suffered from post-traumatic stress and depression.

He submitted to the court that the police force should pay exemplary damages to act as a deterrent and to bring home to the defendant that physical restraint of a non-violent offender must be planned and executed in such a way as to avoid foreseeable injury and that police officers must be properly supervised, assessed, monitored, and trained.

He also called the behaviour of the police cowardly and brutal and an affront to his dignity.

Victoria Police agreed on Oct. 1 to pay the settlement to Karadaglis, which can be adjusted if he is eligible for support from the National Disability Insurance Agency.

No fault or liability was found on behalf of the officers.

The terms of the settlement are confidential; therefore, no further comment can be provided, a police spokesperson told AAP.

Police in the state have been under increased scrutiny in recent months following their enforcement of government-mandated health restrictions in Melbourne at protests.

Several incidents were caught on film showing police applying questionable force and tactics in apprehending protestors, including one incident at Flinders Street Station where a man was grabbed by an officer from behind and slung face-first into the ground. The officer was suspended.
Deputy Premier Steven Miles speaks at a press conference at Parliament house in Brisbane, Australia, on Aug. 6, 2021. (Jono Searle/Getty Images)

Australian State Govt to Probe Local Govt Watchdog

The Queensland government will probe the states independent local government watchdog after growing concerns about its investigations, one of which was recently criticised as being a storm in a teacup.

Queensland Deputy Premier and Local Government Minister Steven Miles on Tuesday ordered an inquiry into the Office of the Independent Assessor (OAI).

This comes after the OAI was criticised for investigating a Queensland mayor for alleged misconduct after he raised concerns about the COVID-19 rollout plan for his town in a Barcaldine Regional Council meeting in February.

Deputy Premier Miles said that he has also recently heard fresh concerns about some of the watchdogs other investigations.

Queenslanders expect councillors to be strong and fair representatives of their communities, he told parliament on Tuesday.

The reforms we have implemented in local government are extremely important, but confidence in the system of integrity is also crucial.

In light of recent issues, Ive asked the parliamentary committee that has oversight of the OIA to conduct a review.

The OIA is investigating a complaint that comments by Barcaldine Mayor Sean Dillon could be detrimental to public confidence in the local vaccine drive.

Dillon made comments during a local council meeting in February that expressed his concern that the plan by health officials to vaccinate everyone in his town in one day could not be achieved.

Local media reported that his comments included that he had no confidence in health officials who didnt understand regional Queensland and thought they could vaccinate everyone in one pass, saying its just not going to work.

The OIA has also reportedly told Dillon that it was alleged his comments should have been addressed directly with the [Central West Hospital and Health Service] in the first instance, rather than in an open meeting of the council.

The independent assessor said this decision did not demonstrate high-quality leadership.

Dillon described the probe as a farcical, protracted, way overblown storm in a teacup.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk, who came to Dillons defence last week, calling the OIA probe ridiculous, and like Dillon said, the investigation was a storm in a teacup.

She said Mr Dillon had done a great job promoting the rollout in the Barcaldine region.

Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) President Mark Jamieson said Dillons case was a clear example of the system going wrong.

We simply cannot have a situation where elected members are scared to represent their communities in the frank and fearless way Queenslanders not only expect but deserve, Jamieson said.

The LGAQ has always supported the role of the OIA, but after three years, we believe it is time for a parliamentary review to look at what is working and what is not.

The LGAQ last week said it was willing to take the matter to the High Court if needed.

AAP contributed to this report.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews speaks to the media at a COVID-19 update press conference in Melbourne, Australia, on Oct. 26, 2021. (Darrian Traynor/Getty Images)

Australian State Leaders Push for Unprecedented Power to Impose Lockdowns

New powers can target individuals based on vaccination status

A new Bill being rushed through Victorias Parliament is set to dramatically expand the authority of the state premier and his health minister.

A summary of the Bill obtained by media outlets The Age and the Australian Broadcasting Corporation revealed that while the proposed law is being pitched as taking steps to increase accountability, it also grants increased power to government ministers, including the authority to place Victoria under lockdown almost unilaterally.

Under the 112-page Public Health and Wellbeing Pandemic Management Bill 2021, the Victorian Minister for Health Martin Foley will, going forward, sign off on all public health orders.

Currently, such orders are used to give governments power to impose public health restrictions such as lockdowns, mask mandates, shutting businesses, and domestic border closurespreviously, this was under the purview of Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton.

The minister will also have the broad power to make pandemic orders where reasonably necessary to protect public health.

Victorian Health Minister Martin Foley speaks to the media in Melbourne, Australia, on Sept. 28, 2021. (Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Meanwhile, Premier Dan Andrews will have the power to declare a pandemic and to extend such a declaration for three months at a time with no limit on the number of times it is extendedsuch a law in practice could see Victoria placed under lockdown for any period of time at the discretion of the premier, even when there are no cases.

Pandemic orders can also be targeted and differentiated between people according to their supposed risk to public health, namely their vaccination status.

In terms of accountability, the Bill will enhance safeguards around privacy and contact tracing information, require the chief health officer to publish reasons behind a public health order, and establish an Independent Pandemic Management Advisory Committeewhose members will be appointed by the government.

The proposed law will also introduce new penalties for breaches of pandemic-related health regulations, including AU$20,000 to $90,000 fines for individuals, and AU$100,000 to $455,000 for businessessailing past the record high penalties introduced by the Western Australian Labor Premier Mark McGowan earlier this month.

Further, penalties can be handed down by courts stopping businesses from profiting from activities that breach pandemic orders.

Because of the short timeframe and the complexity involved in developing this Bill, consultation has not been as extensive as it would normally be, the summary said.

The Victorian government is introducing the Pandemic Bill to supersede the State of Emergency powers granted by the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008; while the powers were only supposed to be extended a maximum of six months, it has over the course of the pandemic, been extended to cover 21 months.

A protester is pushed to the ground by the police during an anti-lockdown rally in Melbourne, Australia, on Sept. 18, 2021. (William West/AFP via Getty Images)

The premier emphasised that the Bill was created via consultation with the legal community, human rights bodies, multicultural organisations, and medical bodies. Members of the crossbench, including the Greens and independent parties, the Animal Justice Party and Reason Party, also support the proposed law.

Storm of Criticism Erupts

In response, Matthew Guy, opposition leader of the Liberal Party, said he had never seen such an attack on Australian democracy.

This is an extraordinary, extreme legislation that comes despite the government committing last week that theyd never lock us down again. Well, if theyll never lock us down again, why do you need laws as extreme as this? he told 3AW radio.

They say theres an independent committeethe independent committee is appointed by the premier. So, you have an independent committee appointed by the person its meant to somehow be a watchdog against, Guy said.

Theres no reference in this legislation at all to the Cabinet, therefore, theres no Cabinet scrutiny. Its all about one man, the premier; theres no oversight by the Parliament as youd expect, he added.

Dont stand there and let our democracy be destroyed, he said, calling on the public to be vocal about the issue to friends and online.

Leader of the Opposition Matthew Guy addresses the media during a press conference on the steps of Parliament in Melbourne, Australia, on Sept. 12, 2021. (AAP Image/Daniel Pockett)

Martin Foley, the states health minister, dismissed criticism from the opposition, saying it was hysterical and that they were chasing every conspiratorial rabbit down every tinfoil hat brigade rabbit burrow over the course of this pandemic.

The leader of the opposition stood about right here two weeks ago calling for precisely what the crossbenchers have delivered: a Westminster-style engagement process that has the executive accountable to the parliament, and through the parliament to the people of Victoria for the decisions that governments make, he said, in comments obtained by the ABC.

Samantha Ratnam, leader of the Victorian Greens, said in a press release, Weve negotiated with the government to create new laws which are a big improvement and much fairer for the whole Victorian community,

Im pleased that the Greens have been able to make sure these new laws have more transparency and are fairer for all Victorians, especially those facing disadvantage, she added, noting that the laws would offer greater protection to QR code data and greater scrutiny from an independent panel that includes experts in human rights and health.

David Limbrick, upper house MP of the Victorian Parliament, however, was critical.

The Greens have zero credibility on human rights. What did they do after the housing tower lockdown disaster? Support more of the same, the Liberal Democrat wrote on Twitter. What did they do when people protested against human rights abuses? Smeared them as right wing extremists.'

Morgan Begg, director of the Legal Rights Program at the Institute of Public Affairs in Melbourne warned the law would end democratic government in Victoria.

This Bill would appear to give the government, and the premier alone, permanent power to exercise tyrannical emergency powers, he said in a press release issued to The Epoch Times.

This must end now. We can never again go through what this government is doing to Victorians, he added. The governments ability to declare emergencies and exercise emergency powers must be curtailed immediately.
Australian State Plans to Welcome International Students Again

The Australian state of Queensland has outlined a plan to welcome fully vaccinated international students for the first semester next year, with priority given to medical students.

The plan would see up to 250 international students allowed to fly into Queensland initially each week, according to state Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe.

The students would quarantine at the state-sponsored Wellcamp facility near Toowoomba, which is still under construction. The state government will rent that facility from billionaire businessman John Wagner, whose company is constructing it.

Hinchcliff said the federal government needs to approve the plan, with the state also asking that international flights be permitted to land at the adjacent Wellcamp Airport.

This has previously been a point of contention, with the federal government opting instead to construct a quarantine facility on Commonwealth land close to the Brisbane airport.

Im pleased to announce today that weve taken the next most important step in welcoming international students back to Queensland, Hinchliffe told Queensland Parliament on Tuesday.

Our Queensland student arrival plan has been sent to the federal government for approval. This will see the return of international students to study in Queensland in 2022.

The minister said initially 250 students would arrive per week, but that would be scaled up as time went on.

Students studying medical research and allied health degrees will be prioritised, he said, so they can potentially back up the states health system after it reopens the borders.

Hinchliffe said if the federal government does not approve international flights landing at Wellcamp, students will be bussed there from Brisbane Airport.

Only fully vaccinated students will be allowed to enter Queensland from overseas under the plan.

This is important for us to do until we have higher vaccination rates amongst Queenslanders, Hinchliffe said.

We dont know if and when mutation number five will arrive, but our best defence is vaccination.

Thats why were urging all Queenslanders to get double-vaxxed for themselves, for their family and their communities.

Hinchliffe said there were more than 20,000 international university students currently enrolled in Queensland, who have been undertaking online education in their 160 home countries.

He said the sector delivered $5.8 billion to the economy and supported 27,500 jobs annually.

AAP contributed to this report.
People arrive and depart from Broadcasting House, the headquarters of the BBC, in London Britain July 2, 2015. (Paul Hackett/File Photo/Reuters)

BBC Should Be Partly Privatised: UK Taxpayers Alliance

The TaxPayers Alliance (TPA), a UK pressure group campaigning for a low-tax society, has called for the part privatisation of the BBC and the scrapping of the outdated licence fee.

In a new report (pdf) released on Tuesday, the TPA said that a part privatisation of the BBC would abolish the outdated licence fee and see the broadcaster funded by a direct government grant.

The BBC faces a mid-term review of its charter next year, with the licence fee model guaranteed until 2027.

Under the model, residents in the UK are required to purchase a TV licence if they watch or record programmes on a TV, computer, tablet, mobile phone, or any other device that can receive a TV signal. A TV Licence costs 159 ($220) a year.

The TPA report proposed that most of the BBC should be sold off and the corporation cut down to one television channel, radio station, and online service, which will be funded by a small government grant. This leaner BBC could then return to concentrating on news and culturally-focused programming, the report said.

According to the report, a potential sale of BBC shares could generate up to 5 billion ($7 billion) for the government, enough to increase the tax-free personal allowance by 300 ($415).

The report also called for Channel 4, another British public broadcaster, to be floated on the stock market, saying it would end the need for taxpayers to act as the final guarantor for the corporation and would ensure a broader range of potential owners than a direct sale to another company.

The TPA said that making drastic changes to both the BBC and Channel 4 would provide billions in revenues, which can be used to cut taxes and enable them to compete more effectively against streaming services while maintaining public service output.

TPA chief executive John OConnell said: In the age of streaming, its ridiculous that we have two publicly-owned broadcasters.

He urged Chancellor Rishi Sunak to use the upcoming budget to unshackle these media giants from the taxpayer and let them stand on their own two feet.

That will benefit not just the public and taxpayers, but the broadcasters themselves, said OConnell.

In a statement in response to the TPA report, the BBC said: The BBC has a Royal Charter in place for a number of years and which sets out the scale and scope of its activities.

A Channel 4 spokesman stressed that the channel does not cost the taxpayer a penny and has been commercially funded since launch.

PA contributed to this report.
Bidens Red Line on Taiwan

The new American position of strategic clarity publicly vows to defend Taiwan against attack by China

News Analysis

President Joe Biden has stated, in no uncertain terms, that the United States would defend Taiwan in the event of a military attack by China. His increasingly public commitment strengthens deterrence.

On Oct. 21, Biden said the words we love to hear. An audience member from Connecticut asked, What will you do to keep up with them [China] militarily and can you vow to protect Taiwan? Biden responded, Yes and yes.

Militarily, China, Russia, and the rest of the world knows we have the most powerful military in the history of the world, Biden replied. Dont worry about whether theyre going to be more powerful. But [what] you do have to worry about is whether or not they are going to engage in activities that will put them in a position where they may make a serious mistake. And so I have had  I have spoken and spent more time with Xi Jinping than any other world leader has. Thats why you have  you know you hear people saying Biden wants to start a new cold war with China. I dont want a cold war with China. I just want to make China understand that we are not going to step back. We are not going to change any of our views .

Read between those lines, and Biden says not only that America will defend Taiwan militarily, but he implies that he has previously delivered that message to Chinese leader Xi Jinping privately. It makes sense that a private threat would precede one that is so public and consequential. The private one gave Xi a more graceful offramp. The public one was only necessary because Xi did not take the hint.

With Bidens new red line, it should now be abundantly clear to Beijing that the United States is very unlikely to surrender Taiwan during a military invasion, and if we do, Biden will pay a cost at the ballot box.

Bidens initial statement at the CNN town hall probably made the host, Anderson Cooper, nervous. He broke in for clarification. So are you saying that the United States would come to Taiwans defense if China attacked?

Biden interrupted before Coopers sentence was even complete, repeating Yes.

Then for good measure, Biden repeated himself a third time. Yes, we have a commitment to do that, he said.

Cooper then cut off the president. Alright were going to take another quick break .

This was a momentous presidential statement, affirmed three times in the course of a couple minutes, that the United States would defend Taiwan militarily. It was begging for more explanation and CNN cut off Biden.

But supporters of the island democracy cheered this switch from strategic ambiguity on Taiwan, which means America is purposefully vague about whether it would defend Taiwan from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) militarily, to strategic clarity, which means the United States publicly commits to defend Taiwan.

Taiwanese domestically-built Indigenous Defense Fighters (IDF) take part in the live-fire, anti-landing Han Kuang military exercise, which simulates an enemy invasion, in Taichung, Taiwan, on July 16, 2020. (Ann Wang/Reuters)

Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) released a statement the following day that read: Strategic ambiguity no longer serves the national interest. It is clear that President Biden agrees. It is also clear that the Chinese Communist Party will view these comments as reflective of our true Taiwan policy. It is time to move past academic debates over the nature of our commitment to Taiwan and get down to the hard work of defending it against the Chinese invasion that looks increasingly likely. This means being honest with the American public about what it will take to successfully deny a fait accompli [accomplished fact] against Taiwan in the near-term, the capabilities and posture we will need, and the resources that will be required.

Ian Easton, the author of The Chinese Invasion Threat: Taiwans Defense and American Strategy in Asia, responded to Biden on Twitter, calling his statement fantastic.

Easton followed up in an email that President Bidens recent public assurances that the US would defend Taiwan represent a watershed moment in American foreign policy history. Preventing a great war with China over Taiwan is the most important security challenge of our times. Part of the solution is bolstering deterrence, convincing Xi Jinping and the CCP elite that aggressive action on their part toward Taiwan would be a disaster for them. President Bidens courageous remarks will make decision makers in Beijing look at the US in a new light and with newfound respect. American resolve decreases the likelihood of CCP aggression and conflict.

Bidens talk of his frequent discussions with Xi and the context of his statement that he would defend Taiwan are probably no coincidence.

On Oct. 5, Biden released a statement that said he had agreed with Xi to follow the Taiwan agreement. This has led to confusion in Washington and the media, but it most likely referred to a long-held agreement, found most clearly in President Ronald Reagans interpretation of the communique of 1982, and possibly confirmed after a private red line delivered to Chinas dictator by President Bidennot to decide Taiwans fate with resort to force.

That would help explain Bidens association of the two topics live on stage, and why China has been so reticent to invade Taiwan up to this point.

However, the conflict is heating up, and there could be disastrous intelligence failures on either side. Dictators are especially prone to intelligence failures because their henchmen are primarily telling them exactly what they want to hear in order to maintain their positions. For that reason, communicating clearly to Xi from outside his hierarchy is particularly important.

A Taiwanese Air Force F-16 in foreground flies on the flank of a Chinese Peoples Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) H-6 bomber as it passes near Taiwan on Feb. 10, 2020. (Republic of China Ministry of National Defense via AP)

One can only speculate at this point, but it seems likely that private communications from President Biden warning Chairman Xi of US commitments to Taiwans defense probably happened some time ago, wrote Easton. They might have happened repeatedly. If so, private conversations clearly didnt work. The threat has only worsened. The darkening intelligence picture may have made President Biden reconsider his options and decide to go public with his intentions.

What used to be American ambiguity over Taiwans defense is rightly becoming a stronger and more public red line. By making Americas red line on Taiwan public, Biden is intentionally making it harder on American politicians, including himself, to back away should Beijing attack. This serves as a welcome forcing function that increases the credibility of the American deterrent. Any waffling on a Taiwan vow would rightly be used by an electoral opponent to illustrate a presidents weakness, and thus act to push him out of office to make way for a president who has the spine to do the job.

By locking in the American response, America deters China by removing the possibility of a fait accompli. This commitment in the context of U.S. democratic contestation increases the credibility of Bidens deterrence of China, in a way that Xi cannot match, because Xi never has to worry about an electoral opponent calling him soft for waffling.

Bidens new red line makes Beijing less likely to attack in the first place, because such an attack could escalate to war. Despite the CCPs long-held cavalier attitude toward human life, especially toward the long suffering Chinese citizens themselves, Chinas leadership is not exempt from fear. And contrary to what Mao Zedong implied when speaking of nuclear war, Americas smaller size gives us an asymmetric advantage.

The frequent U.S. Navy transits of the Taiwan Strait also reinforce Bidens increasingly plausible red line. The transits are not only about freedom of navigation, which is their official purpose, but about American involvement in the defense of Taiwan, which is now becoming a much-needed public commitment.

And that is the right direction for American strategy given Chinas increasing military power and belligerence toward Taiwan, including multiple amphibious military exercises and almost daily flights that test Taiwans boundaries. Xi has provocatively and disastrously suggested that reunification occur by 2050 in order to realize his China dream of national renewal.

Very few share in Xis dreams of mass violence, and so with change in China must come change in our policy. Biden is executing through the replacement of strategic ambiguity with strategic clarity.

Strategic clarity accords with Taiwans request, made clear in a Washington Post interview last year. Taiwans de facto ambassador to the United States, Bi-khim Hsiao, said, We need some degree of clarity.

Richard Haass, the current president of the Council on Foreign Relations, agrees. The New York Times quoted him as saying, It is time to change from strategic ambiguity to strategic clarity.

A U.S.-made F-16V fighter jet with its armaments is on display during an exercise at a military base in Chiayi, southern Taiwan, on Jan. 15, 2020. (Sam Yeh/AFP via Getty Images)

Strategic ambiguity had its purposes. Supposedly it kept Taiwan from declaring independence and China from attacking. A declaration of independence, some believe, would provoke China into an attack. By staying ambiguous about the commitment to defend Taiwan, America mitigates the moral hazard of a Taiwan ready to claim independence without concern for the likely externalities to be suffered by the United States and allies.

Strategic ambiguity also ensured that Taiwan didnt get too comfortableTaipei likely always had a plan for its defense without relying on American military support. Taipei knows that America wants this, imports plenty of American military hardware, and frequently states publicly that it is focused on its own self-defense, along with mentions of Americas rock solid support.

But ambiguity cuts both ways. It also gives Beijing some hope that perhaps a military solution is possible in its goal of reunification. It gives so much hope to Beijing, in fact, that the latter is quickly building a world class military that could someday defeat the United States.

As Beijings power and threats increase, however, ambiguitys veil is starting to fall, beneath which we find a tougher American commitment to Taiwan. Despite all past policies and acts, American presidents can and must publicly clarify the strategy when they seek to increase counter-pressure on Beijing to stop its plans for an invasion. When no invasion is imminent, they can again return to ambiguity and the prioritization of engagement and offramps.

Many policy wonks, the media, and Beijing, apparently dont understand, or dont want to understand (in the interests of strategic ambiguity) this subtle dynamic. What it suggests is that Beijing better get smart quickly or the Chinese military will be surprised by the American and allied military response during a Taiwan invasion. Nobody wants this, including Biden. And so he has been forced to make himself, which is not the same as his administration, increasingly clear.

Together, Americas military training of Taiwans forces, increasing naval transits of the Taiwan Strait, deepening alliances in Asia, and now public commitment to Taiwans defense, tell a single story: America is back.

Read part 2, part 3, and part 4.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Lee Joon-gyu, president of the Korean Council on Foreign Relations, interview with The Epoch Times. (YouJeong Lee /The Epoch Times)

CCP Would Not Dare Look Down on an Aboveboard and Dignified South Korea: Ex-Diplomat

As the South Korean presidential election approaches, the countrys relationship with the United States, Japan, and China has become more sensitive. The foreign policy of the Moon Jae-in administrationespecially its attitude towards the Chinese Communist Party (CCP)has been the subject of serious concern.

If South Korea adheres to its principles, and conducts diplomacy in a dignified and aboveboard manner, China [CCP] will not dare to look down on us, Lee Joon-gyu, president of the Korean Council on Foreign Relations, told The Epoch Times.

In his nearly 40 years as a diplomat, Lee has served as Koreas ambassador to such countries as New Zealand, India, and Japan.

Korea is one of the top 10 economic powers in the world, and ranks 6th or 7th in terms of national defense strength, as well as being a central country with considerable political influence, which has a certain influence on China, he said.

The senior diplomat believes that South Korea is positioned where neighboring powers are frequently engaging in various conflicts, and therefore, the country should not be even the slightest bit complacent right now.

South Koreas Relations with China and the US

Beginning with the Trump administration, the United States has been clamping down on the CCP-ruled China on economic, trade, financial, high-tech, and military fronts, and U.S.-China relations are becoming very tense.

Some in Korea have called for a so-called balance in policy between the United States and the CCP, that is, a policy of security for the U.S. and economic opportunities for China, with no mention of Chinas strategy of stealing intellectual property (IP) from foreign companies to rob, replicate, and replace successful industries in the global market.

Lee called the policy of a balanced approach to the CCP too absurd.

The goal of diplomacy is to help the country gain a foothold and prosper, and security and economy are inextricably linked, and economic development could not be accomplished if security is not stable, he said.

The idea that China is an alternative ally for South Korea is simply invalid, Lee said. The country made a clear choice a long time ago: the South Korea-U.S. alliance.

Lee said that he believes China will continue to maintain a tough tone toward the United States until its elections are completed next year. But China will continue to have a difficult time confronting the U.S. because of its internal problems, he said.

Comprehensive national power, according to Lee, reflects on economic, military, security, political, and soft power, and many other factors. It is too early for China to become an equal power with the United States, he said.

He added, South Korea has been acting as if it is stepping on two boats at the same time, sending the wrong signal to the U.S. and China  this is absolutely undesirable, he said of the Moon administration.

Lee said, when facing the CCP, South Koreas usual obedience and non-assertive diplomacy is one of the missteps of its current foreign policy.

A Gallup Korea poll in April showed Moons approval rating dropped to 29 percent for the first time since he took office, said KEI (Korean Economic Institute), a U.S. think tank focused on relations with South Korea.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in and U.S. President Joe Biden issued a joint statement on May 21, in which they mentioned the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, and the U.S.-Japan-India-Australia Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) to curb the CCP, and exceed the outside worlds expectations.

Kim Tae Woo, a professor of military science at Konyang University in South Korea told The Epoch Times that Moons declining domestic support rating is one of the main reasons for his pro-U.S. statements.

Korea-Japan Stalemate

In January, a South Korean court ordered Japan to compensate 12 comfort women who were forced to work in its wartime brothels. Comfort women is a Japanese euphemism for victims of sexual abuse during Japans 1910-1945 colonial rule of the Korean peninsula.

In September, the Supreme Court of Korea ordered Japans Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to compensate Korean workers for their forced recruitment during World War II.

The Japanese government views the two issues from World War II as being resolved in the 1965 Treaty on Basic Relations signed by both countries.

A radical change in thinking is needed to ease the tense Korea-Japan relationship, which is currently at its worst, Lee said.

Although Korea has grown in diplomacy in recent years, the ex-diplomat also expressed regret that the status of the Korean Foreign Ministry [in the country] has now declined so much.

Lee made an appeal to the current administration and the next one, before deciding on foreign policy, please listen to the opinions of diplomatic experts.

Lee Khasub contributed to this article
Passengers wait in line for screening at a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint at O'Hare International Airport in Chicago on Oct. 19, 2020. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

CDC Bumps Ukraine to Highest Level of COVID-19 Risk for Travel

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has added Ukraine to its list of very high risk travel destinations, citing the spread of COVID-19.

Ukraine, the second-largest country in Europe in terms of land area, was moved this week to Level 4, the highest risk category under the CDCs guidelines, from Level 3.

Earlier this month, the United States bumped up Singaporea country with one of the highest vaccination rates in the worldto Level 4, and days before that, Belarus was deemed a Level 4 risk travel destination as well. Several other eastern European countries, including Romania, Moldova, and Bosnia and Herzegovina, were listed as Level 4 at around the same time.

In its bulletin for Ukraine, the federal health agency repeated several warnings to not travel to Ukraine unless one is fully vaccinated.

If you must travel to Ukraine, make sure you are fully vaccinated before travel, the CDC stated on Oct. 25. Because of the current situation in Ukraine, even fully vaccinated travelers may be at risk for getting and spreading COVID-19 variants.

Travelers should follow recommendations or requirements in Ukraine, including wearing a mask and staying 6 feet apart from others.

The CDC then clarified that vaccinated people are less likely to develop serious illness from COVID-19, the disease caused by the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus.

However, international travel poses additional risks, and even fully vaccinated travelers might be at increased risk for getting and possibly spreading some COVID-19 variants, the CDC stated, without elaborating on how international travel would pose a greater risk than domestic travel.

Other countries that have been deemed Level 4 risks by the CDC include Austria, Bahamas, Botswana, Croatia, Greece, Ireland, Jamaica, Maldives, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, and the UK.

The designation comes as President Joe Biden signed an order on Oct. 25 imposing new vaccine requirements for most air travelers. Children younger than the age of 18 are exempt from the vaccine requirement.

It is in the interests of the United States to move away from the country-by-country restrictions previously applied during the COVID-19 pandemic and to adopt an air travel policy that relies primarily on vaccination to advance the safe resumption of international air travel to the United States, Bidens proclamation reads.

Earlier this month, the CDC said it would accept any vaccine thats authorized for use by the World Health Organization and that it will accept mixed-dose COVID-19 vaccines from travelers. That means that the Russian-made Sputnik V vaccine, which is heavily used by Latin American nations, is left off the listamid an escalating row between Washington and Moscow.
Children Shouldnt Get COVID-19 Vaccines, Harvard Professor Says

Children should not get vaccinated against the virus that causes COVID-19, according to Harvard University professor of medicine Martin Kulldorff.

I dont think children should be vaccinated for COVID. Im a huge fan of vaccinating children for measles, for mumps, for polio, for rotavirus, and many other diseases, thats critical. But COVID is not a huge threat to children, he said on EpochTVs American Thought Leaders program. The full episode can be watched on EpochTV.

They can be infected, just like they can get the common cold, but theyre not a big threat. They dont die from this, except in very rare circumstances. So if you want to talk about protecting children or keeping children safe, I think we can talk about traffic accidents, for example, which they are really at some risk.

And there are other things that we should make sure [of] to keep children safe. But COVID is not a big risk factor for children.

Hospitals should hire nurses & other staff with natural immunityThey are the ones who are least likely to infect the residents. [Yet] were doing the opposite. Theyre being fired. Deep-dive w/ Harvard epidemiologist @MartinKulldorff WATCH: https://t.co/qZ3LrEqVgl pic.twitter.com/U4oXTr2Fhg  Jan Jekielek (@JanJekielek) October 26, 2021

Vaccinating older people and people of all ages with compromised immune systems against the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, which causes COVID-19, has drawn support from most medical experts. But vaccinating healthy young people, particularly children, has triggered more opposition, in part because of how little risk COVID-19 poses to them.

Children are more likely to contract serious disease or die from the annual influenza, or the flu, than COVID-19, according to data and studies that Kulldorff has reviewed. Just 195 children under the age of 4 and 442 between 5 and 18 have died from COVID-19 in the United States as of Oct. 20, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Children are 15 times less likely to be hospitalized with the disease than individuals who are 85 or older, and 570 times less likely to die, the agency says.

One example is from Sweden, during the first wave in the spring of 2020, which affected Sweden quite strongly, Kulldorff said. But Sweden decided to keep daycare and schools open for all children ages 1 to 15. And there are 1.8 million such children who got through the first wave without vaccines, of course, without masks, without any sort of distancing in schools.

If a child was sick, they were told to stay home. But that was basically it. And you know how many of those 1.8 million children died from COVID? Zero. Only a few hospitalizations. So this is not a risky disease for children.

When weighing whether to vaccinate children, the risk of vaccine side effects must also be taken into account, Kulldorff said. The main risk to young people seen so far is heart inflammation, which has occurred post-vaccination at much higher than expected rates. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) added a warning label to the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines over the summer about myocarditis and pericarditis, two types of heart inflammation.

If youre 78 years old, then its the no-brainer, in my view, because the benefits are so great that even if you have a small risk for some adverse reaction, the benefit far outweighs the risk, Kulldorff said. On the other hand, if you have already have immunity from having had COVID, then the benefits of the vaccines are much, much smaller. If youre a child, even if you havent had COVID, the risk of serious disease or death is minuscule  So its not at all clear that the benefits outweigh the risks for children.

Kulldorff was speaking ahead of an FDA advisory panel meeting. Members on Oct. 26 decided to advise drug regulators to authorize Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine for use in children between 5 and 11. They said the benefits of vaccinating the age group, such as the predicted decrease in hospitalizations, outweighed the risks, including estimated incidence of myocarditis.

Zachary Stieber Reporter Follow Zachary Stieber covers U.S. news, including politics and court cases. He started at The Epoch Times as a New York City metro reporter. zackstieber
China Cant Offset Its Property Bubble Easily

Commentary

No economy has been able to ignore a property bubble and offset it and continue to grow, replacing the bust of the real estate sector with other parts of the economy. Heavily regulated economies from Iceland to Spain have failed to contain the negative effect of a real estate sector collapse. It wont be different in China.

China has three real estate problems: the massive size of the sector, its excessive leverage, and the amount of developer debt in the hands of average households and retail investors.

Chinas real estate market has been called the most important sector in the world economy. Valued at about $55 [trillion], it is now twice the size of its U.S. equivalent, and four times larger than Chinas GDP [gross domestic product], China researcher George Magnus wrote in The Guardian.

Considering construction and other real estate services, the sector accounts for more than 25 percent of Chinas GDP. Just to consider other examples of property bubbles, the average size of the sector is somewhere between 15 and 20 percent of a countrys GDP. And none of those economies managed the excess of the property sector.

Of course, the problem of a real estate bubble is always excessive leverage. Developers take on too much debt, and the smallest decrease in housing prices makes their equity vanish and their solvency ratios collapse.

In the case of China, the level of debt is simply staggering. According to Financial Times, the ratio of net debt of the 19 largest developers in China stands at more than 60 percent to equity. Evergrande isnt even the most indebted. Two developers stand at more than 120 percent net gearing. The top 10 most indebted Chinese developers amply surpass the level of debt-to-assets that made Spains Martinsa-Fadesa collapse.

Chinese and foreign retail investors are also heavily exposed to the real estate and construction market. Evergrande was the largest issuer of commercial paper and developers debt was sold to small investors in different packages.

Chinese families have around 78 percent of their wealth tied up in property, more than double that of the United States, according to a 2018 report by Chengdus Southwestern University of Finance and Economics and China Guangfa Bank. China has also launched nine real estate investment trusts that have raised more than $5 billion in just a week in oversubscribed offerings in a market that could reach $3 trillion, according to Bloomberg.

These three factors mean that it will be impossible for China to contain a bubble thats already bursting. According to Financial Times, prices of new homes across Chinas largest cities fell in September for the first time since April 2015. New home prices dropped in more than half of the 70 cities relative to August.

With high leverage, prices that have risen massively above real GDP and real wages, and with a population thats heavily exposed to the sector, the effect on Chinas economy will be much more than just financial. Even if the Peoples Bank of China tries to disguise the fiscal effect with liquidity injections and bank direct and indirect bailouts, the real estate bubble is likely to hit consumption, with utilities that have built infrastructure around empty buildings, services, and sectors that manufacture parts for construction.

The Chinese regime may contain the financial implications, but it cant offset the real estate sectors effect on the real economy. This means weaker growth, higher risk, and lower consumption and investor appetite for China exposure. The central bank cant solve a problem of solvency with liquidity.

Property bubble-driven growth always leads to debt-driven stagnation.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Rep. Brad Sherman at the hearing Smart Competition: Adapting U.S. Strategy Toward China at 40 Years in Washington on May 8, 2019. (Jennifer Zeng/The Epoch Times)

China Experts Allegedly Withdrew From Congressional Hearing Over Fear of CCP Backlash

Multiple potential witnesses pulled out of a congressional committee hearing on U.S.China economic relations because of fear of backlash from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), according to Rep. Brad Sherman (D-Calif.), chairman of the House Subcommittee on Investor Protection, Entrepreneurship, and Capital Markets.

Sherman made the disclosure at the outset of the Oct. 26 hearing, which was convened to examine risks to U.S. investors posed by Chinese companies and other foreign issuers.

We have great witnesses here today, but the most articulate witnesses are those who are not here today, he said. Their decision to pull out of this hearing due to pressureeconomic pressurespeaks loudly to Chinas strong economic power over politics and economics here in the United States.

Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-Mich.), the ranking Republican on the committee, expressed shock at Shermans assertion, asking for more details. Sherman declined to identify the potential witnesses, but indicated they come from the finance sector.

Im not here to end any careers on Wall Street by explicitly identifying names, Sherman responded. There are those who we were in discussions with, some who actually agreed to come testify. But they notified us they decided that it was in the interest of their careers that they not appear before us.

The witnesses who did appear were Karen Sutter, a specialist in Asian trade and finance at the Congressional Research Service; Samantha Ross, the founder of AssuranceMark, the Investors Consortium for Assurance; Eric Lorber, a director at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies; and RWR Advisory Group senior analyst Claire Chu.

The hearing touched on a wide array of China topicsincluding IP theft, espionage, and the CCPs treatment of the Uyghur Muslimsbut was focused on U.S. investors buying stock in Chinese companies. The hearing follows the disastrous initial public offering by Chinese ride-hailing company Didi Global Inc. in June, when it raised $4.4 billion in U.S. markets only to have the Chinese regime begin an investigation into the firm days latercausing Didis stock to tank.

Chinas opaque corporate structures and legal system make investing in Chinese companies a risky business, the witnesses said.

Chinas restrictions on foreign ownership of its companies are seen as a major reason for much of this risk.

Because they cant accept investments that would result in foreign ownership, Chinese companies resort to raising capital through offshore corporate structures, witnesses said. For instance, a U.S.-traded entity might own a Cayman Islands shell company that has a contractual relationship with the Chinese firm.

These structures arguably make it difficult for U.S. investors to assess potential risks, Sutter said. These complex corporate structures also separate the underlying company and its operations and assets from U.S. investors. This potentially limits the ability of U.S. investors to exercise their rights, including the right to seek full legal recourse if necessary.

Ross said a particularly acute problem is Chinese firms not making proper audit disclosures to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Ross was referring to the fact that Chinas government has allegedly blocked its auditing firms from having their work inspected by U.S. regulators.

China-based companies free-riding on U.S. markets, without complying with U.S. audit regulations, increases fraud risks for investors in those companies, she said.

Congress aimed to address this issue in December 2020 when it approved the Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Act, which requires foreign companies to be delisted from U.S. markets if they fail to meet audit disclosure requirements for three straight years.

The legislation may also reveal which Chinese firms have direct ties to the CCP. Once the SEC has finalized its rulemaking on the law, Chinese firms will be required to disclose the percentage of shares owned by government entities in which the company is incorporated and whether these government entities have a controlling financial interest in the firm, according to a subcommittee memo on the legislation.

Firms will also have to disclose information related to any board members who are officials of the Chinese Communist Party and whether the articles of incorporation of the issuer contain any charter of the Chinese Communist Party, the memo says.

The Accelerating Holding Foreign Companies Accountable Actintroduced at the Oct. 26 subcommittee hearingwould reduce the original legislations timeline for delisting to two years.
Chinas Beef Demand in Bolivia Drives Deforestation and Wildfires

Soaring demand from China for Bolivian beef is fueling wildfires and deforestation as cattle ranchers slash and burn jungle in the Amazon ecosystem to make way for cattle pastures.

The problem has escalated since April 2019, when then-President and leader of the Movement Toward Socialism party (MAS) Evo Morales signed an agreement with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The deal tripled the total demand for Bolivias beef exports.

In August that year, Morales announced the inaugural shipment of two containers of beef to China, despite an official report showing that 38,610 acres of the Chiquitania region of Santa Cruz had already burned due to the shift from land cultivation to the creation of cattle pasture to meet Chinese demand.

In December, the Ministry of Defense reported that 4,472 families suffered losses from the fires that followed, along with 98 related injuries, one death, and 40 million trees incinerated.

In the municipality of Porongo, which lies on the outskirts of the western suburbs of Santa Cruz, wildfires are not uncommon.

Manuel Vargass ranch in Porongo, Santa Cruz department, on Sept. 26, 2021. (Autumn Spredemann/The Epoch Times)

Manuel Vargas, 44, a cattle farmer who lives on a 24-acre farm, uses slash-and-burn to clear the way for cow pastures.

Cows need to eat, and more cows means more land to clear, Vargas told The Epoch Times, shrugging. Its expensive to keep cows, so we need to make money. Im a small rancher compared to others. I dont have machines to clear land, so fire is the fastest way to create more land for the cows.

Im just one man with my two sons. How could we possibly clear the land any other way?

Beef exports to China have increased dramatically, from 3,000 tons in 2019 to 10,000 tons in 2020, according to the Bolivian Institute of Foreign Trade (IBCE). China received 80 percent of all the beef exported from the country, according to IBCE.

Chinese Ambassador to Bolivia Huang Yazhong said in 2019 that China had been granted permission to access Bolivian beef and, in just one year, China became that countrys largest meat-export market.

Wildfire-affected area in Chiquitania region of Santa Cruz, in August 2019. (Cesar Calani Cosso/The Epoch Times)

According to one report, the rise in beef exports coincided with two wildfire seasons that destroyed more than 24 million acres of Amazonian rainforest in Bolivia. The loss of territory to slash-and-burn farming spiked dramatically in 2019 and 2020, according to data released by the Wildlife Conservation Society and the Fundacion de Amigos de la Naturaleza.

Julio, 33, a volunteer firefighter and former Army Search and Rescue team leader, told The Epoch Times, That deal with China killed our jungle.

He asked for his full name not to be published because he works for the same socialist party that was in power under Morales.

In August 2019, Julio fought fires in the Chiquitania region of Santa Cruz and was horrified by what he witnessed. I saw the bodies of animals that tried to escape the fire. The ones that survived died in two to three days because there was nothing for them anywhere. Everything was burned.

Exhausted firefighters taking a break in Chiquitania in August 2019. (Cesar Calani Cosso/The Epoch Times)

Santa Cruz department is the powerhouse beef exporter of the nation, with an estimated 24,000 livestock producers. Accordingly, it also has the second-largest number of wildfires of any state in the country. This year, the states of Santa Cruz and Beni accounted for 94 percent of all burned areas, with 835,216 acres lost in Santa Cruz by July of this year.

Bolivian economist and agricultural development educator Eduardo Hoffmann told The Epoch Times that Bolivias beef deal with the CCP has been a disaster.

When you say pros and cons, there really are no pros unless youre the one making money off of it, he said.

Only the agribusiness industry and the government make money off the deal, he said, despite that the government paints a picture of an economic windfall for everyone. Hoffman also was candid when asked if he thought there was a link between the CCP export deal and the increase in territory lost to wildfires since 2019.

Theres no question whether theres a link. Its absolutely related.

A carcass of a capybara in a wildfire-affected area in the Chiquitania region of Santa Cruz in August 2019. (Cesar Calani Cosso/The Epoch Times)

Its legal for farmers and ranchers to use slash-and-burn due to a law Morales enacted on April 25, 2019, around the time of the signing of the trade deal with the CCP. The law allows burning permits under what the government, termed an integral fire-management policy. Through this policy, the government gives permits that are good for three years for farms with agricultural prospects and five years for farms with livestock assets. The law also carries a built-in incentive of reduced fines for those who burn land without government authorization, so long as the fines are paid in a timely fashion.

Back at the ranch, Vargas remained ambivalent about the wildfires. What can be done? Are we supposed to turn away money? he said while watching cows graze in his field. Sure, [the fires] are bad every year, but they always go out eventually.

The office of the Minister of Foreign Trade and Integration declined to comment.
Several explosions and fires flared up in China over the weekend. From the north to the east, the country saw three separate accidental blasts. Many were killed and wounded.

Australia says it will stand with the United States if China attacks Taiwan. The country reiterated it has been with the United States through every major battle in the 21st century.

Taiwan and the Czech Republic are strengthening their diplomatic relations in a move angering Beijing. To mark the talks, a Taiwanese minister made an official visit to Prague.

International rights group Amnesty International announces plans to close its Hong Kong offices due to concerns over deteriorating freedom in the city.

Beijing appears to push a new pandemic narrative: that the virus origin tracks back to American seafood. The latest claim comes after a series of others, with the regime having blamed at least four other countries in the past.

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A woman looks through a magnifier to see a 2GB RAM from a notebook during the semi-tech show in Taipei 10 in May 2007. (Sam Yeh/AFP/Getty Images)

Chinese Regime Using US Tech to Create Weapons, House Republicans Warn

The Chinese military likely used U.S. technology in its reported test of a hypersonic weapon earlier in the year, according to a recent letter signed by 17 Republican lawmakers.

It is likely that U.S. software and tools contributed to the creation of this weapons system, because of our countrys permissive export controls and licensing policies with China, the Oct. 22 letter reads.

The letter was addressed to Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo and signed by House Republicans who also serve on the GOP-led China Task Force.

Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.), who signed the letter, told The Epoch Times he believes that technologies developed in the United States have been used by the Chinese regime in everything from weapons tests to mass surveillance used in its repression of the Uyghur people, which the United States has recognized as a genocide.

Chinas recent hypersonic missile test is part of a troubling pattern, Gallagher said in an email. From this test, to the Wuhan Institute of Virology, to Xinjiang, U.S. technology has contributed to the Chinese Communist Partys ability to kill Americans, conduct dangerous research, and commit genocide.

The lawmakers called on Raimondo to immediately implement 10 policy proposals in an effort to curb the export of critical and emerging technologies from the United States to China, where they say American-developed technologies are improving the capabilities of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the Peoples Liberation Army (PLA).

The letter also highlighted the claimed shortcomings of attempts to pacify China through increased trade, a strategy that Raimondo has promoted as part of the administrations approach to the regime.

This hypersonics test and other wakeup calls must end the notion that the CCP can be constrained through commercial engagement, the letter states.

Gallagher says the recommended policy proposals represent the bare minimum necessary to secure U.S. technologies from being used by the CCP to either attack or otherwise undermine the United States, its allies, and their interests abroad. American companies, he added, need to do more to prevent their technologies from being co-opted by the regime.

The federal government needs to wake up to this threat and, at a minimum, impose the export controls that members of the China Task Force outlined to Secretary Raimondo this week, Gallagher said.

More broadly, U.S. companies need to choose: Are you with us, or are you with this genocidal communist regime?

US Allows Restricted Technologies to be Sold to Civilian Sector

Security experts have long called for a ban on so-called technology transfers of key emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and quantum computing between the United States and China.

The lawmakers letter to Raimondo raised the same concerns and warned that inaction could lead to the empowerment of what they referred to as a genocidal, authoritarian regime.

In theory, U.S. export control laws are in place to prevent sensitive American technology from getting into the hands of foreign actors that pose a threat to national security, including the Chinese military. But a key problem with these laws, the letter contended, was that controlled items were still allowed to be exported to China so long as the end-user of the product was within the civilian sector.

The United States has thus far refrained from seriously impeding upon such sales to the civilian sector in an effort to promote free trade and greater economic prosperity.

The letter pointed to the issue of U.S. semiconductor technology transfers to China. China lacks the means to produce advanced semiconductors on its own and its military relies on U.S. technologies to create them. In theory, the Commerce Departments Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) must license military technologies for export. But because the United States allows for technologies with national security applications to be sold to the civilian sector without a license if it is deemed the company will only use them for civilian purposes, the vast majority of semiconductor technologies exports do not go through the BIS licensing process, according to the letter.

Lax export controls make it very easy for critical technology to be sent to China directly, or through a proxy company or nation with China as the end destination, said Casey Fleming, CEO of the strategic advisory firm Black Ops Partners.

Another example of lax export policies pointed to in the letter is that companies are easily able to dodge the effects of being blacklisted for their connections to the Chinese regime by simply changing their company name or restructuring.

We face considerable roadblocks to limiting critical and emerging technologies due to the fragmentation of our government competing with the quest for commercial profit, Fleming said.

A central whole-of-nation response with a trusted partnership between the public and private spheres must be engaged with national security as the primary driver.

Chinese Military Has Access to Everything

That whole-of-nation response, a joining of centralized government policy and action and support from the private sector, is precisely what was sought after in the letter sent to the commerce secretary.

Thats because most of the technological support that the Chinese military derives from the United States is done so quasi-legally, through a combination of Beijings military-civil fusion strategy and implementation of new national security and intelligence laws, as the letter pointed out.



The CCPs program of military-civil fusion is aimed at systematically reorganizing the Chinese science and technology sectors to ensure that new innovations simultaneously advance economic and military development.

Chinas national security and intelligence laws, meanwhile, mandate that all companies doing business in mainland China or that are operated by Chinese citizens can be ordered to surrender their data to the CCP at will.

Officials and experts say that this means that any technologies developed by American companies in China could be seized by the CCP at any time. The same is true of technologies supplied to Chinese-owned companies by U.S. companies and even of the intellectual property of American companies that are funded by Chinese investors, they say.

In other words, the United States allows the sale of vital technologies to civilian sectors in China, but the PLA can force those sectors to hand over that technology at any given time.

Chinas policy of military-civil fusion is leading to the inclusions of new technologies for their military, Rep. Mike Waltz (R-Fla.), another signatory to the letter, said in an email.

These technologies include advanced, heat resistant technologies, Precision Navigation and Timing (PNT), and AI, Waltz added. Many of these technologies have been stolen from the United States and other western countries.

Given the nature of the CCPs national security laws, Waltz said that he believed Raimondos efforts to increase trade with China were directly hampering U.S. national security efforts by funneling American resources to the CCP and PLA.

Our trade deficit sits at around $400 billion and [is] flowing directly into Chinas manufacturing base, fueling their military expansion, and creating global dependencies through their Belt and Road Initiative, Waltz said.

The United States must take a whole-of-government approach to confronting the existential threat coming from the CCP.

To that end, the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC) launched a campaign on Oct. 22 to warn and instruct U.S. organizations engaged in critical and emerging technologies about the dangers posed by foreign states counterintelligence operations, and advised that the CCP was actively leveraging technologies gleaned from U.S. companies for its own ends.

There are multiple examples in which technology, data, talent and intellectual capital from these emerging U.S. technology sectors have been acquired by the PRC [Peoples Republic of China] government and put to use in fulfilling the PRCs national and geopolitical goals, Dean Boyd, chief communications executive for the NCSC, said in an email.

Such an effort appears to fall far short of the changes desired by the House Republicans China Task Force, however.

For now, Fleming said that the United States lax export controls would continue to provide strategic advantages to the Chinese regime and its weapons development efforts until the time came that the administration accepted it was engaged in an undeclared war with China.

We are in a true wartime scenario, with unrestricted hybrid warfare waged by the CCP using many tactics and methods short of conventional war to weaken and destroy freedom and democracy worldwide, Fleming said.

U.S. leadership will understand the immediate need for a full technology lockdown when the Chinese Communist Partys strategy to destroy democracy worldwide is accurately considered.

Commerce Department officials didnt immediately respond to a request by The Epoch Times for comment.
A computer keyboard lit by a displayed cyber code in this illustration picture taken on March 1, 2017. (Kacper Pempel/Reuters)

Civilian AI Companies at the Forefront of US Strategy to Defend Taiwan

Analysis

The United States is deploying advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI) and autonomous defence systems to defeat an invasion of Taiwan.

The U.S. considers AI as a key enabler for Taiwan to hold out long enough to receive assistance from allies. Known colloquially as the Taiwanese Porcupine strategy, or more formally as the Overall Defense Concept (ODC) it relies on the AI systems ability to manage large numbers of unmanned military assets and provide real-time battlespace awareness through networked sensors.

But to facilitate this the US defence establishment will be relying on non-military tech companies like that founded by the creator of the Oculus gaming VR headset Palmer Luckey, Anduril Industries, which focuses on defence and national security.

For the first time in history most innovative technology companies in America are largely not working with the United States military, explained Luckey in July.

Russia and China do not have these issues. Their best technology companies are working on defence challenges. Their best people are working on defence challenges. If we allocate all of our best people to search engine optimisation and ad delivery, how can we possibly expect to compete?

Anduril is viewed by many as the next Lockheed or Raytheon and has already secured a range of high-level US government contracts.

Currently, it is believed to be the fastest-growing defence company ever and enjoys a significant private investment, from Luckey himselfwho sold Oculus to Facebook in 2014 for $2.3b USD. But also others such as conservative PayPal founder Peter Thiel, and major venture capitalists such as Andreesen Horowitz.

Their break out product was sentry towera solar-powered surveillance system that can detect all people, animals and drones, identified separately using AI algorithms within 2 miles of anywhere it is placed.

While able to operate autonomously, each sentry can also integrate into a network, creating real-time 360-degree awareness over a large area. Already thousands of sentry towers have been deployed along the US-Mexico border, as well as protecting American and allied military assets around the world.

Anduril, named after the fictional sword of the west from the Tolkien Lord of the Rings Trilogy, has China squarely in its sights when planning for the future of warfare.

In July the company announced a new deal with the US Marines to deploy high-end counter-drone technologies, which Luckey says includes anti-drone interceptors, jamming technologies, and electronic warfare systems.

Anduril CEO Brian Schimpf has said that it is also working on systems that scan large areas of ocean and large drone swarms capable of being operated by just a few soldiers.

But AI competition between the US and China is intense, and China has some fundamental advantages.

Starting with the fact that all of Chinas financial transactions, individual movements, online behaviours, and personal interactions for that countrys 1.5 billion people are scanned into AI algorithms, honing AI accuracy while strengthening CCP control.

Likewise, commercial advances in Chinese AI systems are rapidly adapted to national security applications with the government having unfettered access to any private sector technology through the civil-military fusion strategy implemented in the past few years.

This differs from the U.S. where the government cannot forcibly co-opt American companies or even rely on their general patriotism. Google, for example, famously refused to work with the US Department of Defense, while other companies have prevaricated when dealing with technologies with multiple uses, such as those that might identify undocumented migrants crossing the southern border.

Meanwhile, there is increasing awareness in Taipei that its legacy high-end conventional forces such as planes, ships and tanks are not reliable for Taiwans defence.

As Taiwanese Admiral Lee His-min said on Sept. 28, conventional platforms are very expensive, the opportunity cost is too high. Instead, he suggests that to effectively address a full-scale invasion, Taiwan needs highly-survivable and resilient asymmetric capabilities. That is, a large number of small, dispersed, mobile and lethal weapons.

For Anduril, autonomous AI systems are the answer, acting as a force multiplier for the Taiwanese military without needing to station US forces directly on the island. Within ODC, Admiral Lee prescribes unmanned system that includes aerial drones (UAV), unmanned underwater vehicles, unmanned surface vehicles and especially UAV swarms.

Taiwans ODC depends on large networks, equipped with sensors and advanced communications technologies, akin to Andurils sentry tower. These systems would operate with, according to Admiral Lee, manned and unmanned micro missile assault force, enhanced by artificial intelligence.

Anduril has kept relatively silent about technologies that may contribute specifically to Taiwans defence, although publicly announced projects focus on real-time situational awareness, drones and counter-drone technologies, and advanced AI identification and targeting systems. Luckey has compared Andurils systems to those of a starfish, where each sub-component can operate independently or together, in which no critical points of failure exist.

AI and autonomous systems are shaping to be the true information age warfighting transformation. As Russian president Vladimir Putin remarked, artificial intelligence is the future not only of Russia but of all mankind. Whoever becomes the leader in this sphere will become the ruler of the world.
Scout farmers markets or greengrocers from September to December for a pear adventure, which is a most worthy culinary odyssey. (Tata Zaremba/Unsplash)

Consider the Pear: How to Properly Ripen, Prepare, and Appreciate Falls Forgotten Fruit

Money may not grow on trees, but golden treasure does.

Though they are called green Anjou pears, the bell-shaped fruits glistening in the October morning sun on a 20-foot tree at Kiyokawa Family Orchards, in Oregons Hood River Valley, exhibit a topaz sheen that makes them look like foot-sized jewels.

Theyre on the sunny side of the tree, Randy Kiyokawa explains of the pears golden blush. Gives them a sort of glow, dont you think?

I do think. Its not hard to imagine that their flavor matches their beauty. Pears are evanescent marvels with a range and complexity of tastes, textures, and colors that rival any other tree fruit.

But, barely noticed amid the annual new-apple frenzy that modern marketing has brought to U.S. grocery stores, pears are the overlooked gems of fall fruits. (In fact, Gem is the variety name for a 2015 introduction that industry figures hope will finally break the monopoly apples hold on the fall fruit paradigm.) Hood River is the capital of American pears, and Ive come to Kiyokawas farm, on a lovely high bench beneath Mount Hood, to learn more.

Slow Fruit

Kiyokawas farm is at the upper end of the Hood River Fruit Loop, a 35-mile circle drive with 29 member retail and U-pick farms, about an hour east of Portland. Kiyokawa specializes in rare and exotic pears and apples one will never find at Safeway, or even Whole Foods.

On his 155 acres, and at the farms expansive roadside fruit stand, youll find two dozen different kinds of pears (and a dozen Asian pears, plus more than 100 apple varieties). Pears range from the standard tried-and-true Bartlett to the Abate Fetel, Chateau Royale, Packhams Triumph, and Taylors Gold, all attractive and richly flavored. The names betray a European heritage that reveals pears popularity in the Old World.

The U.S. pear industry, which is almost entirely located in the Hood River and Wenatchee River valleys in Oregon and Washington, is relatively stable. While pear growers dont get rich in autumn on highly hyped new varieties, they also rarely lose moneyunlike in the fad-driven apple industry, which often finds bulldozers leveling thousands of acres of trees whose fruit has fallen out of fashion (Red Delicious being the most egregious example).

Pear growers, I observe, tend to favor the old axiom that, if it aint broke, dont fix it. Exactly, Kiyokawa affirms.

Kiyokawa has hundreds of pear trees that are decades old80 years, in some cases, something youd almost never find in a commercial apple orchard, where a 25-year-old tree is a senior citizen. Bartletts, Anjous, Comices, Seckels, and more: Pears produce well, and sell steadily, though not feverishly, so in the ground they stay. For consumers, they can be easily stored at home for weeks or months. Theyre beautifully sustainable, in other words.

But while these virtues carry great weight in Europe, not so here. On my way to Hood River, Id stopped at a large Columbia Basin roadside fruit warehouse that had  two kinds of pears, Bartletts and Anjou. Years ago, in a small Slovakian village, I saw two dozen kinds at a cobblestone-square farmers market.

This disparity is amply illustrated by U.S. agricultural statistics. American apple production is 11.1 billion pounds, and climbing (up 3 percent in 2021). Pear production is 1.3 billion pounds and declining.

I know, Kiyokawa sighs about pears puny position in the U.S. fruit pantheon. Americans just dont have the patience to ripen a pear at home. We live in an instant gratification world.

Almost all European pears are picked while still quite hard and need days or weeks indoors to fully ripen. And when they do, they must be eaten quickly, or they turn to mealy mush.

Pears are a unique piece of fruit, said Ashley Thompson, tree fruit specialist for Oregon State Universitys Cooperative Extension Service. They bruise more easily than apples. They ripen differentlytop down and inside out, while an apple ripens all at once.

Then, even when perfectly ripe, you cant eat a pear driving down the road without getting it all over your blouse, she said. Apples  a handy, hand-size snack, right?

The latter impulse is what Thompson and other horticulturists hope the 2015 USDA introduction, Gem, will shift. Because its eating quality is good both when first picked, firm and crisp (like an apple) and after it softens a bit, Gem is picked, shipped, and bought ready to eat.

Pear Devotees

But change comes slowly to the pear industry, and Gem has yet to reach the heights its advocates hope for. Meanwhile, steadiness suits Kiyokawas four-generation family farming business, which dates back to 1911 and has a steady stream of happy customers. Autumn weekends find hundreds of consumers at his standand he ships fresh pears to appreciative chefs who value the complexity and practical advantages of pears for autumn desserts.

Pear quality remains high throughout the year, said Ben Stenn, executive chef at Celilo, Hood Rivers premier fine dining restaurant. The fruit stores so well, we enjoy it year-round. The most important thing is understanding proper conditioning of the fruit. A few days of gradual ripening and we have high-quality fruit almost whenever we want.

Stenns favorite pear is Taylors Gold (also one of Kiyokawas favorites), which is perfect for his favorite pear recipe, a galette, in which the bright colors and firmness of the pears hold through the baking process. We use puff pastry and firm pears that soften while baking in the oven. The pastry puffs up around the fruit and the juices cook down and concentrate the flavors.

No oven is necessary to treasure a pear, of course. A classic European dessert is a platter of sliced pears with a robust cheese for flavor contrast.

Does amazing scenery make food taste better? I ask at 2,000 feet on the slopes of Mount Hood.

Randy Kiyokawa laughs.

Sureif youre out in the field eating it.

I try out this proposition by carving off a slice of a Gem pear, the one Ashley Thompson is so keen on. In the distance above, 11,250-foot Mount Hood gathers the Pacific clouds that bring healing rain, crisp air, and blue skies washed by God. Hoods water nourishes these pear trees; the long-day summer light burnishes their fruit; the clean air helps them thrive.

And the pears bring all these virtues right to our kitchen tablesif were willing to take the time to appreciate them.

How to Choose, Ripen, and Store Pears

As with apples, there are literally hundreds if not thousands of pear varieties  but a scant few are found in American stores. Its best to scout farmers markets or greengrocers from September to December for a pear adventure, which is a most worthy culinary odyssey.

What do you do with them? Pear-cheese pizza (the version at Solstice Pizza in Hood River is hugely popular); salad with pears and pecans; tarts and galettes; poached pear desserts; a glazed pear compote for waffles: Dozens of recipes are at USAPears.org.

And if you have an unheated garage or basement where the temperature is below 50, but never freezingor better yet, an actual root cellarbuy a whole box and bring a half-dozen up at a time to ripen. The traditional method is to wrap each pear in newspaper or something similar, thus fending off bruising, mildew, and such. Thats what Europeans have done for centuries, and its the reason many pioneer homesteads across America have century-old pear trees (and root cellars). Some varieties, such as Bosc, can last into next March.

Or you can store winter pears in the fruit bin of your fridge and bring a few out as needed.

How to tell when theyre ripe? Its an art, but one way is to lightly press the flesh next to the stem. If it yields, its ready. (Why? Remember that pears ripen top down and inside out. If you wait for the widest bottom part to be soft, the top and insides might have already turned to overripe mush.)

Anjou: A classic European hard pear, these have a hint of clove, and are picked, shipped, and sold hard, so they must ripen at home for a few days up to weeks. Red Anjous are just a color variation.

Bartlett: The American standard summer peargreen skin, soft and sweet when ripe. Red Bartletts are another color variation, with otherwise identical character.

Bosc: A classic European storage pear, the hardy russet skin keeps these fruits until well into winter. The white flesh is semi-sweet. Perfect to pair with cheese.

Cascade: Randy Kiyokawas favorite pear is shaped like a knobby bell, russeted, and highly flavored. Very hard to findask at farmers markets in October.

Comice: A very sweet, yellow blushed-red dessert pear. These are in your Harry & David Christmas boxes; ultra-fancy Comices are marketed as Royal Riviera.

Concorde: Ultra-sweet, these green storage pears dont soften as much as Comice or Anjou.

Forelle: These green-and-red pears are almost tart, very crisp, and smaller than Bartletts and such.

Gem: This newer variety can be eaten right off the tree, and is thus fully ready when brought home from the store. Juicy and crisp, its flavor is not as intense as other pears. Kept at room temperature for a few days, they soften but retain their flavor.

Seckel: Small, crisp, tart, and often quite red, these also remain crisp even when ripe.

Starkrimson: Fully red, this late summer pear ripens soft and very sweet.

RECIPE: Roasted Pear Crumble With Honey Yogurt

RECIPE: Pear and Walnut Flatbread With Gorgonzola, Arugula, and Balsamic Glaze

RECIPE: Waldorf Pear Salad

RECIPE: Mini Pear Galettes
Cars and motorbikes queue to fill up at a service station in Tehran, Iran, amid a nationwide disruption of the petrol distribution system on Oct. 26, 2021. (Atta Kenare/AFP via Getty Images)

Cyber Attack Allegedly Shut Down Gasoline Access Across Iran: Report

Gas stations across Iran were allegedly targeted by a massive cyberattack on Tuesday, according to reports. The incident resulted in widespread disruptions in gasoline sales and many motorists being stuck in long lines at closed stations.

The attack has only interfered with smart card sales, a system that is widely used in the country and allows citizens to buy gasoline at a reduced price.

Masoud Rezaei, a smart fuel system official, told Irans Radio News Agency in an exclusive interview that petrol stations were gradually coming back online. He also noted that Iranians who dont really need fuel should not go to fuel stations in the current situation.

The problem that occurred in the intelligent fuel system was from outside or inside the network, which identified the threat system and then removed itself from the circuit, Rezaei said, noting to his compatriots that they should not worry about the countrys fuel supply.

This is not the first time this has happened in recent years, he explained. We will find a technical solution in this regard and we will update it to solve the problem in principle.

Multiple state-run broadcasters have reported that the disruption is the result of a cyberattack, although Rezaei told Radio News Agency that a software glitch caused the downtime while advising Iranians to not pay attention to rumors.

Sources close to the Supreme National Security Council have confirmed a cyber attack against the fueling system of gas stations, said Majid Akhavan, a state TV newsreader. The details and the origin of the cyberattack are being investigated and additional information will be announced after the conclusion.

Cars and motorbikes queue to fill up at a service station in Tehran, Iran, amid a nationwide disruption of the petrol distribution system on Oct. 26, 2021. (Atta Kenare/AFP via Getty Images)

A picture taken on Oct. 26, 2021, shows off-line petrol pumps at a service station in Irans capital Tehran, amid a nationwide disruption of the petrol distribution system. (Atta Kenare/AFP via Getty Images)

State TV said Oil Ministry officials were holding an emergency meeting to solve the technical problem.

The semiofficial ISNA news agency, which first called the incident a cyberattack, said it saw those trying to buy fuel with a government-issued card through the machines instead receive a message reading cyberattack 64411.

The use of the number 64411 mirrored an attack in July targeting Irans railroad system that also saw the number displayed.

Farzin, an Iranian motorist identified by only his first name, told The Associated Press that he was unable to obtain fuel.

I have been waiting a couple of hours for the gas stations to reopen so that I can fill up. There is no fuel wherever I go, he said.

Iran has previously faced a series of cyberattacks, including one that leaked video of abuses in its notorious Evin prison in August. Claims of hacking can come quickly when Iranian broadcasters publish news that angers the theocracy.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

From NTD News
FCC Votes to Terminate China Telecoms Operations in US Over National Security Concerns

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) on Oct. 26 voted unanimously to bar a leading Chinese state-owned telecommunication firms U.S. arm from operating in the country.

China Telecom Americas, a subsidiary of China Telecom, now has 60 days to discontinue services after having operated in the United States for two decades.

The FCC voted 4-0 to terminate China Telecom Americas license to provide domestic and international services within the United States. The regulator said the firm is subject to exploitation, influence, and control by the Chinese government and is highly likely to comply with Beijings orders.

The decision concluded more than a year of U.S. scrutiny into the Chinese telecom provider, which began last April during the Trump era when the Department of Justice and other federal agencies called for the FCC to bar China Telecoms U.S. operations.

The Justice Department at the time found that China Telecom had made inaccurate statements about where the company stored its U.S. records, which raised questions about who had access to those records. The department also said the firm had made inaccurate public statements about the companys cybersecurity practices, drawing concerns about its compliance with U.S. cybersecurity and privacy laws.

Signage is seen at the headquarters of the Federal Communications Commission in Washington, on Aug. 29, 2020. (Andrew Kelly/Reuters)

In March, the FCC began efforts to revoke authorization for three other state-controlled Chinese telecommunication firms, including China Unicom Americas, Pacific Networks, and its wholly-owned subsidiary ComNet, saying the companies have failed at this stage to dispel serious concerns about their U.S. authorizations.

The FCC on Tuesday highlighted China Telecoms ownership by the state, which it said would give Beijing authorities opportunities to access, store, disrupt, and/or misroute U.S. communications, which in turn allow them to engage in espionage and other harmful activities against the United States.

China Telecom Americas, the agency said, had shown a lack of candor, trustworthiness, and reliability that erodes the baseline level of trust in its conduct towards the commission and other U.S. agencies.

The regulator also accused China Telecom Americas of violating two of five terms in a 2007 letter of assurance given to the U.S. government, which it needed to comply with to continue operating in the country.

The Epoch Times has reached out to China Telecom but did not receive a response by press time.

Following the vote, the agencys acting chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel described the action as an important and necessary step, adding that this is not a decision we make lightly.

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr said he was pleased to have wrapped up the case but signaled that more needs to be done.

While todays vote is an important step forward, the FCC must remain vigilant to the threats posed by the Communist Party of China and those who would do its bidding, he said in a Tuesday statement.

Theres bipartisan support to address security concerns coming from China.

Last week, the House passed a legislation led by Republican Whip Steve Scalise (R-La.) and Rep. Anna G. Eshoo (D-Calif.) banning FCC from reviewing or giving out equipment licenses to Chinese state-linked telecom companies deemed a national security threat.

Carr, who welcomed the bills passage, said FCC needs to expand on its banned list to cover more firms that could constitute a national security risk. He had targeted DJI, a Shenzhen-based drone maker, saying we do not need a Huawei on wings.

The FCC in March declared five Chinese companies, including Chinese telecom giant Huawei, as posing a threat to national security. It has also set a start date for U.S. telecom carriers to rip and replace equipment manufactured by Huawei in late September.
A person receives a bandage after their first dose of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine at a clinic in Los Angeles, Calif., on Aug. 7, 2021. (Patrick T. Fallon/AFP via Getty Images)

FDA Panel Recommends Authorization of Pfizers COVID-19 Vaccine for Children 5-11

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was advised on Tuesday to authorize Pfizers COVID-19 vaccine for children between the ages of 5 and 11.

The FDAs Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee made the recommendation.

Seventeen panel members voted yes to recommend the authorization. One abstained.

The vote came after lengthy presentations and discussions about whether the benefits of the jab outweigh the risks for young children.

Pfizer and FDA experts were unable to say the vaccine can prevent transmission of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, which causes COVID-19. But they said it will lower the risk of severe disease, hospitalization, and death among the children, citing data from trials run by Pfizer and the effectiveness of the vaccine in older age groups, who have been getting it for months.

The evidence is pretty clear that this vaccine has worked well, Dr. Jay Portnoy, a professor of pediatrics at Childrens Mercy Hospital and a temporary voting member of the panel, said before the vote.

FDA scientists ruled the benefits of the shot outweighed the risks and panel members agreed, even after expressing serious reservations regarding the decision.

Members were forced to vote on whether to recommend authorization for shots for every 5- to 11-year-old. They were told that if they rejected the proposed recommendation, they could vote on advising authorization for it for a more narrow population within that age group, but it never reached that point.

The FDA is expected to agree with the recommendation, which would lead to the CDCs vaccine advisory panel deciding exactly who can get the jab.

Severe outcomes among childrenespecially among healthy children without comorbiditiesfrom COVID-19 are much less likely than older age groups.

Hospitalizations among children 5 to 11 have happened at a lower rate than from influenza, according to adjusted surveillance data (pdf) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

And just 94 children in that age group have died from the disease since the start of the pandemic, Dr. Fiona Havers, a CDC official, said during a presentation.

But a small percentage of children have still experienced severe disease and required intensive care, motivating members to recommend the shot.

There are approximately 24 million children between 6 and 11 in the United States, according to Census Bureau data.

The use of this vaccine will prevent deaths, will prevent ICU admissions, and will prevent significant long-term adverse outcomes in children, Dr. Amanda Cohn, a (CDC) official and a panel member, said after the vote.

Some outside experts have questioned giving vaccines to children, though the proposal has drawn support from a number of others.

A portion of the panel on Tuesday said they were worried about cases of heart inflammation among youth seen post-vaccination, with higher than expected rates of incidence being recorded among males 12 to 49, particularly after the second dose of the two-dose regimen.

The inflammation, or myocarditis or pericarditis, has also occurred among more young females than expected after getting a second dose of Pfizers jab.

We simply dont know what the side effects are going to be, Dr. Cody Meissner, a professor of pediatrics at the Tufts University School of Medicine and a panel member, said during the discussion.

He and several others said they were against authorities mandating vaccination for children to attend schools, given the lack of data available at this time.

Dr. Michael Kurilla, a National Institutes of Health official and a panel member, focused in part on CDC data that indicates some 4 in 10 children have already had COVID-19, which would grant them some level of immunity against re-infection.

Hes among the experts who believe that a subset of children only need one dose, which would lessen the risk of side effects.

Modeling from the FDA showed that for males 5 to 11, vaccination was estimated to prevent 203 hospitalizations per million while leading to 156 excess hospitalizations per million due to heart inflammation, and prevent 67 intensive care unit stays versus leading to 57 excess stays due to the major side effect.

The gap between the predicted benefit and primary risk was much wider in females, and combining the genders showed a clear benefit, Hong Yang, a senior FDA adviser, told members.

No cases of myocarditis or pericarditis were recorded among trial participants, Pfizer officials said. Approximately 1,518 participants got two doses in a phase 2/3 trial while another 1,591 received two doses in a separate study.

Efficacy was inferred by using a technique called immunobridging, or looking at the immune response it triggered and comparing it to the immune response that was triggered in older age groups for whom authorization has been in place since late 2020.

The data show clear and compelling vaccine safety and efficacy and supports an emergency use authorization in 5 to less than 12-year-olds, Dr. William Gruber, who heads the vaccine clinical research and development group at Pfizer, told members during a presentation.

The dosage level for children between 5 and 11 is a third of that given to those 12 and older. If ultimately authorized and recommended by the CDC, young children would receive two doses of 10 micrograms each spaced three weeks apart.
Practitioners of the spiritual discipline Falun Gong hold a parade to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and to protest the ongoing persecution of the group by the Chinese Communist Party in China, in New York City, on May 13, 2021. (Larry Dai/The Epoch Times)

Fear and Loathing in Beijing

Why is the most tyrannical regime on Earth waging war against the most peaceful of religions and practices?

Commentary

Why does the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) go out of its way to persecute and destroy Christian believers and Falun Gong practitioners?

What are the CCPs brave, omniscient, and brilliant leaders afraid of?

Whos Afraid of the Meek and Mild?

When it comes to religious persecution in China, whats going on in the hearts and minds of the CCP?

What, on Gods green Earth, is Xi Jinping afraid of?

Surely, the Party leaders dont fear the meek followers of Jesus Christ, who told His followers to love your enemy and turn the other cheek.

And undoubtedly, the Party couldnt possibly have any rational fear of the peaceful folks who practice calm and mild Falun Gong. How could performing slow motion exercises and meditation in the park threaten the CCP?

Logically, the CCP, with all its might and control over virtually every aspect of the lives of all its citizens, cant be even remotely threatened by folks like these who are unarmed and reject violence.

And yet, those two groups are exactly who Xi Jinping and the Party fear most.

Why would that be?

A Party of Fear

First and foremost, its important to understand that the CCP has a pervasive monopoly on fear. This fear manifests itself in critical and elemental behaviors and in decisions such as rising consumer savings rates (34 percent) to a plunging population. People dont spend money or have children when theyre fearful of the future.

Whats more, the CCP embodies fear itself and runs on fear. That may sound contradictory, but its actually quite accurate. Every Party member is utterly fearful of saying the wrong thing, or even being accused of thinking the wrong thing. The entire CCP is full of men and women deathly afraid of incurring the wrath of the CCP leadership.

Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping and other leaders applaud at the closing session of the National Peoples Congress (NPC) in Beijing, China, on March 11, 2021. (Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters)

And finally, the CCP leadership itself is saturated with fear. That particular strain of anxiety is best described as paranoia, and is what accompanies all illegitimate regimes without exception.

Legitimate leaders are comfortable with opposition and dont require or resort to secret police or state-sponsored terror to remain in power. However, throughout the reign of the CCP, Party dictators and leaders have never been able to tolerate the first or survive without the latter two. The fear-tyrant calculus is simple: The more illegitimate the countrys leadership, the more tyrants fear being deposed by a political rival or even by the people themselves.

Political Purges and Social Credit System

Furthermore, its no coincidence that, like Mao Zedongs purges of the past (and Joseph Stalins for that matter), Xi uses political purges to eliminate real and perceived enemies of the revolution, of the state, or of his leadership.

Of course, these official actions are conducted under the guise of rooting out corruption, which is simply a convenient euphemism. The reality is that the entire Chinese economy and political structure are based on cronyism, theft, and deceit. The real purpose of Xis purges is to eliminate not corruption, but political rivals. As a bonus, the purges also serve to strike fear in the hearts of everyone else.

Chinas social credit system serves a similar purpose, applied across society at large. It, too, involves identifying people who may say, write, read, or think the wrong way. It then results in some form of corrective measures such as losing a job or transportation privileges, or even purging offenders from society altogether. It can reasonably be asserted that all of China lives in fear.

The Other Half of the Fear Equation

But that fear, as comprehensive as it most certainly is, is only half of the equation. The CCP also fears religious and spiritual beliefs and practices. The Chinese regimes abhorrent and brutal treatment of Muslim Uyghurs, which includes forced labor, re-education camps, and sexual abuse of Muslim women, is clear evidence of Beijings loathsome view of the Uyghurs.

That brings us back to Christianity and Falun Gong.

Beijings capacity for loathing and persecuting the spiritual and religious is broad and deep. Even more than its fellow Party members, the CCP fears Christianity and its believers, as well as Falun Gong and its practitioners. The reason is a simple one: A material-based ideology, which communism most certainly is, simply cannot enrich the heart, mind, and soul the way transcendent spiritual beliefs can.

Fearing a Non-Existent God

Hence, the CCP is deathly afraid of people praying to a God who it insists does not exist. And yet, Christianity is spreading across China like wildfire. Furthermore, physical persecution and material deprivation dont quell the Christian faith, but only strengthen it. The worse the conditions become, the more the numbers of believers grow. Beijing may well benefit from revisiting the history of Christianity in the Roman Empire.

In fact, Beijing tries to downplay the number of Christians in China, with an official count of about 44 million. But the reality is that in 2020, there were about 116 million Protestant Christians in mainland China, most of them in underground churches.

Catholic worshippers attend a morning mass on Easter Sunday at a Catholic church in a village near Beijing on April 4, 2021. (Jade Gao/AFP via Getty Images)

More worrisome for the CCP, by 2030, China will lead the world in the number of Protestant Christians. Ironically, Xi fears the rise of Christianity in China so much that in a most sincere exercise in flattery, he has replaced Gods Ten Commandments with his own.

Marxism Is No Match for Ancient Wisdom

As for those millions who practice Falun Gong, they, too, obtain a metaphysical contentment and condition of physical wellbeing that the communist ideology cant hope to provide. With a metaphysical outlook borne out of religious traditions of Buddhism and Taoism, the values, wisdom, and precepts of Falun Gongtruthfulness, forbearance, and compassionprecede and supersede the base brutality of the CCP by thousands of years.

Beijings response has been to subject Falun Gong followers to a variety of persecutions, including incarceration in labor camps and forcing them to become live organ donors. But, like Christianity, these harsh measures have failed to stop the spread and practice of Falun Gong in China and the rest of the world.

In the endand there will be an end to the CCP and its tyrannical rulethose who persecute and enslave will be found wanting in the judgment of both mankind and God. If the CCP were wise, which it is not, it would fear both, but especially the latter, and cease the persecution of their fellow human beings. It would also realize that for all of us, our time on this Earth is short and what follows is, well, eternal.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
Then Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas speaks in Los Angeles on April 18, 2017. (Rich Polk/Getty Images for Communities In School Los Angeles)

Former USC Dean Pleads Not Guilty to Ridley-Thomas Bribery, Fraud Charges

Marilyn Flynn, former dean of the University of Southern California (USC) School of Social Work, pleaded not guilty Oct. 25 to federal charges of bribery and fraud in a scheme involving Los Angeles City Councilmember Mark Ridley-Thomas.

On Oct. 13, Ridley-Thomas and Flynn were indicted on 20 counts of bribery and fraud for allegedly conspiring to provide Ridley-Thomas son with benefits including admission, a full scholarship, and a paid professorship in exchange for Ridley-Thomass support of contracts that would generate millions in new revenue for the school.

Ridley-Thomas and Flynn also allegedly came up with a mechanism to funnel Ridley-Thomas campaign funds through the university to a non-profit to be operated by the relative, according to a statement by the U.S. Attorney.

When Ridley-Thomas approached Flynn about the deal, the School of Social Work was facing a multimillion-dollar budget deficit, putting the school, as well as Flynns position, in jeopardy, according to the U.S. Attorneys statement.

A USC spokesperson said in a statement that the school disclosed the issue to the U.S. Attorneys office in 2018 when it learned that $100,000 in campaign funds had been funneled from Ridley-Thomass campaign through the school and then passed on to his sons nonprofit, and that they have been fully cooperating since then.

Flynn, 83, was dean of the school for 21 years.

Both Ridley-Thomas and Flynn are charged with one count of conspiracy, one county of bribery. Both are also charged with two counts of honest services mail fraud and 15 counts of honest services

wire fraud.

On Oct. 20, Ridley-Thomas pleaded not guilty to charges at his arraignment; the same day, he was suspended from his City Council position, and his salary and benefits were frozen.

The conspiracy count alleged in the indictment carries a penalty of up to five years in federal prison. Each bribery count carries a maximum possible sentence of 10 years. Each of the mail fraud and wire fraud charges carry a maximum of 20 years.

Flynns attorney, Vicki I. Podberesky, said her client has not committed any crime, and we believe that the evidence in this case will ultimately support this conclusion.

Flynns tentative trial date is set for Dec. 21, with a status conference on Nov. 8. Flynn is currently out of custody on a $50,000 unsecured bond.

City News Service contributed to this report.
Illinois Health Care Employees Sue Hospital Over Vaccine Mandate, Say They Were Denied Religious Exemptions

Fourteen employees of NorthShore University HealthSystem filed a lawsuit against the Illinois-based health care provider, arguing that the facility wouldnt allow them to keep their jobs due to religious objections to COVID-19 vaccines.

Liberty Counsel, which is representing the 14 health care workers, said in an emailed statement to The Epoch Times on Monday that it filed a class-action lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.

The plaintiffs have shared these religious beliefs, and others, with NorthShore, and have asked NorthShore for exemption and reasonable accommodation for these beliefs, but NorthShore has unlawfully and callously refused, the complaint (pdf) said.

The lawsuit is urging the district court to grant a temporary injunction against the mandate before Oct. 31, a day before the deadline NorthShore set to remove the plaintiffs and other employees with objections.

As of last Friday, said Liberty Counsels statement, NorthShore had already started purging those employees with sincere religious objections to its Mandatory COVID-19 Vaccination Policy,' by removing many of those employees from the November work schedule, including those whose appeals were still pending.

Equal Employment Opportunity Commission guidelines say that employees can ask to be exempted from vaccine requirements due to religious or medical reasons. Employers do not necessarily have to grant the exemptions under certain circumstances, the agencys guidance adds.

NorthShore, which has six hospitals, told The Epoch Times on Tuesday that most of its employees have received the vaccine.

The hospital system said it understands that getting vaccinated may be a difficult decision for some of our team members, according to its statement. We value their committed service and respect their beliefs.

COVID-19, however, has presented the hospital with unique challenges that continue to threaten our communities, NorthShore added. Therefore we must prioritize the safety of our patients and team members in support of our broader mission, it said.

But Liberty Counsels lawsuit asserted that NorthShore previously provided exemptions to some workers but later denied them in September. The companys denials were without explanation or said the requests for exemptions failed to meet its criteria.

NorthShore then only gave employees three business days to file an appeal without stating what was missing in the original application. In that appeal, NorthShore also apparently judged the validity of their religious beliefs by requiring them to include their entire vaccination history since the age of eighteen. However, NorthShore never requested employees to provide prior vaccine information in their initial exemption requests, the organization said in a statement

In response to Liberty Counsels claim, NorthShore told local media it had considered each request based on multiple criteria and looked at the information submitted, safety issues, and current conditions.
How to Make the Most of Your Marriage

Tips on keeping the fires of love alive

One of the biggest days of your life has come and gone.

Youve stood up before a group of people and taken vows youve sworn to uphold. Perhaps you followed up that event with a gala, an evening of dining and dance, or perhaps you left some clerks office in City Hall and drove back to your apartment. Perhaps you then headed out for a week at Marthas Vineyard or a weekend in the mountains.

Whatever the case, youre now married. In the words of yesteryear, youve plighted your troth to another. Youve promised your beloved to honor a union of flesh and spirit, to stick together in the good and bad seasons of your love. As the traditional words put it, youve vowed to be wedded, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, until we are parted by death. This is my solemn vow.

Reminiscing about memories strengthens bonds. (Lordn/Shutterstock)

Flash forward 10 years. You and your spouse have three children under the age of 8, youre having trouble making the mortgage payments, and your mom is unloading advice on you about marriage and childrearing like some longshoreman unpacking a container ship out in Los Angeles.

Some folks warn, Old age isnt for sissies. The same might be said about marriage. If we let it, marriage can be one bumpy old road.

So how can we keep that road smooth and in good repair? How do we honor those vows, keep the fires of love alive, and get the most out of our marriage?

Reverence

Most of us know O. Henrys short story The Gift of the Magi about a poor couple at Christmastime. Della sells her beautiful hair to buy Jim a platinum fob chain for his treasured watch, and Jim sells his watch to buy his young wife a set of combs for her hair.

The story ends, And here I have lamely related to you the uneventful chronicle of two foolish children in a flat who most unwisely sacrificed for each other the greatest treasures of their house. But in a last word to the wise of these days let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are the wisest. Everywhere they are the wisest. They are the magi.

When we revere our spouse, when we cherish that special relationship, like Della and Jim we become magi bearing gifts.

For years after my wife Kriss death in 2004, I tormented myself by wondering whether I had failed to give her such gifts. Could I not have treated her better? Could I not have thanked her more for her many kindnesses or told her more often how much I loved her?

One day, at a memorial service for my wifes mother, Kriss best friend from childhood and I were eating lunch opposite each other in the churchs hall. We talked a bit about Kris and her death, and then Susie paused, looked me square in the eye, and said, I hope you know you were the love of her life.

That burden Id carried for years immediately fell away.

My tears came later.

A weekly or monthly date night can work wonderseven with children in tow. (Emma Bauso/Pexels)

Respect

Long ago, Kris and I took classes in conversational German at a community college in preparation for our honeymoon. When a much older couple in the class learned we were to be married, they beamed their congratulations. Then the elderly gentleman turned serious, wagged his finger in our faces, and said, Just remember. Respect. Respect for each other is the key to a happy marriage.

For the rest of the time Kris and I had together, I frequently thought of that man and did my best to heed his advice.

Respect is the first cousin of reverence and has many faces. It means listening. It means biting our tongues when were angry rather than arguing or spitting out hurtful words. It means trying to understand our spouses point of view when we come to loggerheads.

Recreation and Rejuvenation

Like everyone else, couples can become swept up in routine, burdened by the demands of daily living, household chores, caring for children, and meeting other obligations. Frequently, this whirlwind leads them to neglect their marriage.

Just as their commanders send combat-weary soldiers off the battlefield for R&R, or rest and recuperation, couples should do the same. This marital R&R, meaning recreation and rejuvenation, doesnt necessarily mean a month on the beaches of Hawaii or a couple of weeks at a rental house on the North Carolinas Outer Banks, though both sound wonderful.

Nothis time away from the battleground of duty and stress can be much simpler than making some long excursion. A weekly or monthly date night; a walk together in the evenings, even with the children in tow; watching a movie together while holding hands; a glass of wine shared on the back deck or on the tiny porch of an apartment: these small moments, seemingly so insignificant, accumulate over time and forge bonds between husbands and wives. They create the links that help preserve marriages in tough times.

This recreation, or if you will, re-creation, also brings a renewed vigor to the relationship, a daily resurrection of devotion and love.

Married people tend to live longer. (Drazen Zigic/Shutterstock)

Remembrance

How many of us at age 50 pause to remember why we fell in love and married at 25? Do we look at our husband or wife through the lens of all the years weve spent together? Do we remember the girl we fell in love with, her close-clipped hair, the laughter we shared in that bakery when we bought her the Raggedy Anne cookie jar after she commented on it, the night on the Boston Esplanade when we celebrated the Bicentennial together? Do we remember that awkward young man who stumbled over his words when he introduced himself, who brought us flowers when he showed up at the door for that first date, who six months later dropped to his knees and asked for our hand in marriage?

Memory is a wonderful tool for keeping a marriage alive and vibrant. Whether we spend time exchanging these memories with each other, laughing over some silly incident from the past, or ruing a mistake, or whether we reminisce in private, recognition of the past weve shared strengthens marriage.

When we remember who we were, we have the opportunity to remember who weve become.

Rewards

Studies have shown that happy marriages bring unexpected benefits. Married people have lower stress levels, for example, they tend to live longer, and they even get better sleep. There are tax benefits, and couples have less of a tendency toward depression and better outcomes after surgery.

All well and good, but of course no reason to marry.

No, we marry hoping for love and companionship, for the adventure of a lifetime, for the mutual joys and sorrows, for the daily kindness and tender graces, and for the mysteries in the other that time and familiarity will never, thank goodness, fully solve.
Princess Mako, the elder daughter of Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, and her husband Kei Komuro, a university friend of Princess Mako, attend a press conference to announce their marriage registration at Grand Arc Hotel in Tokyo, Japan, on Oct. 26, 2021. (Nicolas Datiche/Pool Photo via AP)

Japans Princess Mako Marries Commoner, Loses Royal Status

TOKYOJapanese Princess Mako quietly married a commoner without traditional wedding celebrations Tuesday and said their marriagedelayed three years and opposed by somewas a necessary choice to live while cherishing our hearts.

The marriage to Kei Komuro cost Mako her royal status. She received her husbands surnamethe first time she has had a family name. Most Japanese women must abandon their own family names upon marriage due to a law requiring only one surname per married couple.

The couples marriage document was submitted by a palace official on Tuesday morning and made official, the government agency in charge of state matters concerning the royal family said. There was no wedding banquet or other marriage rituals for the couple. The agency has acknowledged that many people have not welcomed their marriage.

For me, Kei-san is a priceless person. For us, our marriage was a necessary choice to live while cherishing our hearts, Mako said in a televised news conference, using an honorific in speaking of her husband.

Komuro responded: I love Mako. I live only once and I want to spend it with someone I love. He said he hopes to be with Mako to share feelings and encourage each other in happy times and difficult times.

I hope to have a warm family with Mako-san, and I will continue to do everything to support her, he said.

Mako earlier declined a 140 million yen ($1.23 million) payment to which she was entitled for leaving the royal family, palace officials said. She is the first royal family member since World War II to not receive the payment and chose to do so because of criticism of the marriage.

Mako, who turned 30 three days before the marriage, is a niece of Japanese monarch Naruhito. She and Komuro, who were classmates at Tokyos International Christian University, announced in September 2017 that they intended to marry the following year, but a financial dispute involving his mother surfaced two months later and the wedding was suspended.

On Tuesday morning, Mako left the palace wearing a pale blue dress and holding a bouquet. She bowed outside the residence to her parents, Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, and her sister Kako, and then the sisters hugged each other.

The couple did not answer questions at the news conference as Mako had expressed unease about responding in person. Instead, they provided written answers to questions submitted by the media beforehand, including those about his mothers financial issues.

Mako is recovering from what palace doctors described earlier this month as a form of traumatic stress disorder that she developed after seeing negative media coverage about their marriage, especially attacks on Komuro.

We have been horrified, scared, and saddened  as false information has been taken as fact and that unfounded stories have spread, Mako said in a written answer to one of the questions.

The dispute involves whether money his mother received from her former fiance was a loan or a gift. Makos father asked Komuro to clarify, and he wrote a statement defending himself, but it is still unclear if the dispute has been fully resolved.

Komuro, 30, left for New York in 2018 to study law and only returned to Japan last month. His hair was tied in a ponytail at the time and the look drew attention as a bold statement for someone marrying a princess in the traditional royal family and only added to the criticism.

The couple will move together to New York to start a new life.

Many in Tokyo wished them good luck.

Congratulations, said office worker Yasuhiro Suzuki. I hope people in America will welcome them.

Retiree Kenko Suzuki said he expects life in New York will be challenging because they will have to live without people taking care of them. So Im rooting for them, he said.

There will be different kinds of difficulties as we start our new life, but well walk together as we have done so in the past, Mako said, thanking everyone who supported them.

Mako, apparently referring to mental health issues, noted many people have difficulty and hurt feelings while trying to protect their hearts. She said, I sincerely hope that our society will be a place where more people can live and protect their hearts with the help of warm help and support from others.

In Japan, only male royals have household names, while female royal family members have only titles and must leave if they marry commoners.

The male-only succession practice leaves only Akishino and his son, Prince Hisahito, in line to succeed Naruhito. A panel of government-appointed experts is discussing a more stable succession system, but conservatives still reject female succession and allowing women to head the royal family.
John Durham to Call Former FBI Lawyer to Testify in Case Involving Former Democrat Lawyer

Prosecutors working with special counsel John Durhams team indicated on Tuesday they may call former FBI General Counsel James Baker to testify in the case of former Democrat attorney Michael Sussmann, who was indicted for allegedly lying to the FBI.

During a status hearing Tuesday, Durham prosecutor Andrew DeFilippis and his team said they plan to call Baker, who now works for Twitter, to testify as part of the case against Sussmann, according to Fox News and the Washington Examiner. Last month, Sussmann pleaded not guilty to making a false statement to a federal agent.

U.S. District Judge Christopher Cooper asked Sussmanns lawyers and prosecutors to continue with their discovery process, which could take months. The prosecution said that 6,000 documents were provided to Sussmanns defense, amounting to more than 80,000 pages in total.

Durhams indictment against Sussmann, who previously worked for high-powered law firm Perkins Coie, is that he made false statements in September 2016 when he told Baker he wasnt working for a client when he provided claims that alleged the existence of backchannel communications between the Trump Organization and a Russian bank. Perkins Coie has long represented the Democrat Party in election-related lawsuits.

The indictment alleges that Sussmann was actually working for former Secretary of State Hillary Clintons presidential campaign and was charging her team for it as well as a technology executive. Several reports have identified the executive as Rodney Joffee.

Former FBI General Counsel James Baker testified before the House judiciary and oversight committees on Oct. 3 and Oct. 18, 2018. (Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times)

In a recent court filing (pdf) on Oct. 20, Durhams team said it provided the 80,000 pages of discovery documents to Sussmanns defense team earlier in the month.

Documents were obtained in response to grand jury subpoenas issued to fifteen separate individuals, entities, and organizationsincluding among others, political organizations, a university, university researchers, an investigative firm, and numerous companies, the special counsels office said.

Perkins Coie was the law firm that had hired Fusion GPS on behalf of the Democratic National Committee, which then hired former British MI6 agent Christopher Steele to produce the now-discredited dossier now known as the Steele dossier. Baker, meanwhile, had testified before the House Judiciary Committee in 2018 saying that Sussmann had provided him with the allegations that a Russian bank was communicating with a server in the Trump Tower.

This false representation led the General Counsel to understand that the defendant was providing the information as a good citizen, rather than a paid advocate or political operative, said Durhams court filing earlier this month. In fact, the defendant had assembled and conveyed the allegations to the FBI on behalf of at least two specific clients, including a technology executive at a U.S.-based Internet company and the Hillary Rodham Clinton Presidential Campaign.

Going further, prosecutors said that to craft white papers on the allegation former President Donald Trump had connections with a Russian bank, the technology executive used his access at multiple organizations to gather and mine public and non-public Internet data regarding Trump and his associates, with the goal of creating a narrative regarding the candidates ties to Russia.

The executive then directed and caused employees of two companies in which he had an ownership interest in two technology companies to search and analyze their holdings of public and non-public internet data for derogatory information on Trump, prosecutors say.

The Epoch Times has contacted Sussmanns lawyers for additional comment.

After his indictment last month, Sussmanns lawyers issued statements questioning Durhams case.

The Special Counsel has brought a false statement charge on the basis of a purported oral statement made over five years ago for which there is only a single witness, Mr. Baker; for which there is no recording; and for which there are no contemporaneous notes by anyone who was actually in the meeting, said his lawyers in a statement.

The lawyers continued: Not only that, but the Special Counsel has brought this false statement charge even though Mr. Sussmann has consistently maintainedincluding in testimony under oaththat he met with Mr. Baker on behalf of a cyber expert client.

Baker now serves as deputy counsel for Twitter after leaving the FBI in 2018.

During the closed-door testimony, Baker told the House panel he previously had a personal relationship with Sussmann because both worked in the criminal division together at the Department of Justice.

Last year, Durham indicted former FBI lawyer Kevin Clinesmith with making a false statement when he altered an email about former Trump campaign aide Carter Page and added words saying he was not a source after a CIA liaison said he provided information to the agency. The Department of Justice had relied on Clinesmiths assertion when it renewed an application in 2017 to surveil Page under a Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) warrant.

Clinesmith was ultimately sentenced to 12 months of probation and 400 hours of community service.

The next court date in Sussmanns case was set for a status hearing on Dec. 8 at 2 p.m., Cooper said.
U.S. President John F. Kennedy signs the order for a naval blockade of Cuba on Oct. 24, 1962, during the Cuban Missile Crisis. (AFP via Getty Images)

John F. Kennedys Nephews Urge Biden Administration to Release Final Documents Pertaining to Assassination

Two of former President John F. Kennedys nephews are calling on the Biden administration to release the final documents pertaining to his assassination in 1963 after the White House announced last week that it was delaying releasing them due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The records were set to be made public on Tuesday, but the White House released a memo on Oct. 22 stating that it would delay their publication until at least Dec. 15.

In the memo, the White House said the National Archives and Records Administration has concluded that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the agencies and that they require additional time to consult with government agencies to determine how much more information about the assassination can be released.

Following the memo, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told Politico that the governments delay in releasing the remaining documents is an outrage.

Its an outrage against American democracy. Were not supposed to have secret governments within the government, he said. How the hell is it 58 years later, and what in the world could justify not releasing these documents?

His cousin, former Rep. Patrick Kennedy (D-R.I.), said the records should be released because the American people have a right to know about something that left such a scar in this nations soul that lost not only a president but a promise of a brighter future.

I think for the good of the country, everything has to be put out there so theres greater understanding of our history, Patrick Kennedy said.

John F. Kennedy, the 35th president of the United States, was killed on Nov. 22, 1963 while riding in a motorcade through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas, Texas.

Lee Harvey Oswald, who had recently been hired to work at the Texas School Book Depository, was arrested by officials and formally arraigned for his murder, as well as the murder of police officer J.D. Tippit, whom he allegedly shot on the same day.

Oswald was later shot and killed by gunman Jack Ruby while being held in Dallas police headquarters. Ruby, a nightclub owner, told police that revenge over Kennedys murder was the motive for his action. He was later charged with first-degree murder.

Nearly 30 years later, Congress enacted the President John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992, mandating that all Government records concerning the assassination of President John F. Kennedy  should be eventually disclosed to enable the public to become fully informed about the history surrounding the assassination.

The records consist of more than 5 million pages of assassination-related records, photographs, video footage, sound recordings, and artifacts, according to the National Archives.

The documents were finally set to be declassified in 2017, but then-President Donald Trump postponed the release for four years, citing national security concerns.

However, in 2018 Trump did approve the release of 19,045 documents, of which roughly 15,000 have some redactions, that are available on the National Archives website.

President Joe Biden has continued Trumps policy of shielding the records, despite himself serving in the U.S. Senate when the John F. Kennedy Assassination Records Collection Act of 1992 was unanimously passed in Congress.

Currently, approximately 88 percent of the records pertaining to the assassination have been released in full, while an additional 11 percent have been released with redactions of sensitive information. A further 1 percent of the documents identified as assassination-related are yet to be made public, according to the National Archives.

The White House said in a statement to Politico that the public will have access to a tranche of previously withheld records and redacted information withheld in previously released records and that the Biden administration is setting up a whole-of government effort to ensure the maximum possible disclosure of information by the end of 2022.
Judge Finds Teenager Guilty in Loudoun County Bathroom Assault

A Virginia judge on Monday found a teenage boy guilty of sexually assaulting a schoolmate.

The crime took place at Stone Bridge High School in Ashburn on May 28.

The boy, 15, was convicted on one count of forcible sodomy and one count of forcible fellatio, both felonies, local media reported.

I found the facts sufficient to support the charges, Pamela Brooks, the chief judge of the countys Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, said during the hearing, according to WTOP.

The victim said she and the boy had consensual sexual encounters before the assault but that she did not consent to what he did in May.

A defense attorney for the boy tried arguing that his client reasonably believed he had permission because of the previous encounters.

Neither the girl nor the boy are being named because they are juveniles.

Sentencing was put off until another case is adjudicated involving the male. He was charged with sexually assaulting another student at Broad Run High School, authorities have said. That assault took place on Oct. 6.

Loudoun County Sheriffs Office deputies responded to Stone Bridge at approximately 1:30 p.m. on May 28, according to dispatch notes obtained by The Epoch Times through a Freedom of Information Act request.

Officers were briefed by an assistant principal that a student alleged they were possibly raped or touched unwanted by another student a couple of hours prior. The family of the victim was notified.

An FBI agent with the bureaus Washington Field Office later that day called the sheriffs office and inquired about the incident, according to the notes. The agent was advised that a sexual assault investigation was taking place. He said the incident would not require the FBIs help.

The investigation led to the arrest of the male on July 8 and the case was turned over to the Loudoun County Commonwealths Attorneys Office, which helped prosecute the boy.

The Broad Run incident involved a male student sexually assaulting a female student, according to dispatch notes obtained by The Epoch Times.

The sheriffs office said no 911 calls were made and declined to provide body camera footage, citing state law. It also declined to immediately provide records on all reported sexual assaults at Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS) dating back to Jan. 1, 2018.

LCPS failed to follow state law in reporting several sexual assaults from its schools to state authorities, Superintendent Scott Ziegler said earlier this month. He also recanted his claim that no sexual assaults had taken place in school bathrooms.

Ziegler made the claim during a school board meeting on a pro-transgender policy that lets students who claim to be a different gender than their biological sex use different bathrooms. The school board later approved the policy proposal.

LCPS did not respond to a request for comment on the guilty verdict.

Bill Stanley of the Stanley Law Group, who is representing the family of the victim, said in a statement that We are relieved that justice was served today for the Smiths daughter.

No one should have to endure what this family has endured, and now their focus is completely upon their daughters health and safety as she progresses forward with her life, he said, adding that the family stands stronger than ever in moving forward to ensure that those responsible in the Loudoun County School system are held accountable, so that this may never happen again to anyone elses child.

Scott Smith, a county resident, identified himself in early October as the father of the victim.

The family has filed a lawsuit against LCPS for allegedly violating Title IX in its handling of the case.

LCPS has told The Epoch Times that it couldnt investigate what happened until law enforcement concluded its investigation, and that it was cooperating with the sheriffs office and other authorities. It also said it was barred from disciplining any students without following the grievance process outlined in Title IX.
Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou leaves her Vancouver home to attend her extradition hearing in British Columbia Supreme Court, in Vancouver, Canada, on Aug. 4, 2021. (Don Mackinnon/AFP via Getty Images)

Judge Orders Return of Items Seized During 2018 Arrest of Meng Wanzhou

VANCOUVERA British Columbia Supreme Court judge has ordered the return of items seized from Meng Wanzhou during the Huawei executives arrest at Vancouvers airport over an extradition request from the United States.

An order dated Oct. 21 and signed by Associate Chief Justice Heather Holmes says items taken by the RCMP during her Dec. 1, 2018, arrest must be returned.

The court document released to media lists a MacBook laptop, an iPad, a USB stick, an iPhone, a Huawei phone, SIM cards and a Chinese passport.

The order also directs the RCMP to destroy a handwritten note containing the passcodes to Mengs phones as well as photos of the note and of her devices serial numbers.

U.S. authorities accused Meng of lying to HSBC about Huaweis control of a subsidiary, putting the bank at risk of violating American sanctions against Iran.

Meng pleaded not guilty in a U.S. court in September after reaching a deferred prosecution agreement, the extradition request was dropped and she returned to China immediately.

The court heard during the extradition hearing in Vancouver that the passcodes to Mengs phones were improperly shared with the RCMP by an agent with the Canada Border Services Agency, forming part of an argument by Mengs lawyers that she was subjected to an abuse of process and the extradition request should be thrown out.

Lawyers for Canadas attorney general disagreed, arguing there had been no misconduct in the extradition case that would have justified a stay of proceedings.

Holmes had reserved her decision over Mengs extradition in August, around a month before Meng struck the deal that would allow for the charges against her to be dismissed after Dec. 1, 2022, provided she complies with certain obligations.

Two Canadians detained in China shortly after Meng was arrested, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, returned to Canada just as she was heading back to China.
Krispy Kreme Begins Vaccine Mandates; Employee Prepares to be Terminated

The Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation in North Carolina has joined the ranks of companies implementing vaccine mandates for its employers.

In September, the company said in a press release that certain employees and contractors must get the COVID-19 vaccine by Nov. 30 or be terminated.

Since when does a company built on sugar get to dictate the health care decisions of its employees? John Richardson, an information technology employee with Krispy Kreme, told The Epoch Times.

Krispy Kreme is only doing this with the corporate employees, Richardson said. They arent making any of the shop employees get vaccinated.

There are 363 shops in the United States.

In a letter to CEO Mike Tattersfield, Richardson said the company isnt requiring shop employees to get vaccinated because people would leave.

For you to say this is for the health of the workers is such total and utter bologna, and the scary thing is Krispy Kreme probably already knows that, Richardson said. If this was about the health of your workers, then the ones you should care most about are the ones who are on the frontlines in the shops interacting with the public. Why didnt you include them?

If it were to mandate vaccines for shop employees, the company would lose money, Richardson said.

If the mandate is not good for everyone, then why is it good for anyone? Richardson asked. Shame on Krispy Kreme and the leaders that thought this was a good idea and had the power to enact it. It is needlessly jeopardizing the lives of your employees and their families for a virus that is 99 percent survivable by almost all of the population.

Richardson said Tattersfield has not responded to his request to end the mandate.

They Are Going To Have To Fire Me

Richardson has chosen not to file for religious or medical exemption because he said he shouldnt have to file for an exemption for a mandate the company doesnt have the right to demand.

They are going to have to fire me, Richardson said, which is unfortunate, he added, because he cares about his job.

Ive loved Krispy Kreme from an early age, he said. My dad grew up here in Winston-Salem where the company was born. It really is one of those staple companies that we are very proud of.

Its a decision he brought before his family, he said.

I sat them around and said, Heres the deal: I am getting ready to go through a fight, he said. Ive never before been fired for performance reasons, and for me to lose a job because I wont put an unknown substance in my arm? Its insanity.

Vaccination Campaign

When vaccinations for the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus became available, Krispy Kreme began a vaccination campaign in March to give free doughnuts to those who had gotten the shot.

By June, the company said it had given 1.5 million doughnuts to the vaccinated.

To celebrate this, the company allowed for all customers to get one free doughnut on what the company called National Doughnut Day, while the vaccinated could get two free doughnuts, according to a company press release.

More Risk Than Reward

When the vaccine mandate for corporate employees was formally announced in what the company called its Doughnut Break meeting in September, Richardson said they were told there would be no provision for testing or natural immunity and no severance pay for those who were terminated for not getting vaccinated.

Krispy Kreme says it respects all opinions, Richardson said. The company said the decision to take this vaccine is a private endeavor. Now, thats totally reversed. Not only are they not respecting people and what their decision is, but they are also forcing this vaccine.

Theres more risk than reward, Richardson said, on taking the vaccine.

I really did want [the vaccines] to work, he said. Theyre not, though, and its so evident for anyone willing to look at the data and not repeat the public health agencys safe and effective line without thinking about it.

Richardson cited the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting Systems data that he said shows more people have died from the COVID-19 vaccine than all other vaccines combined over 30 years, while in the first week of October 2021, there were 93 percent more cases and 97 percent more deaths than in the first week of October 2020 when there was no vaccine available, according to data he linked to the World Health Organization.

How does this make sense if these vaccines are working? Richardson asked. There is obviously something wrong, and Krispy Kreme is going to be on the wrong side of this when the dust settles.

Richardson said the mandate doesnt fit with the legacy of Krispy Kreme, and though he proclaims the company makes the best doughnut, it becomes a lot less sweet when you see the direction they are going in.

Krispy Kreme didnt respond immediately to questions about its policy.
People talk before the start of a rally against critical race theory being taught in schools. at the Loudoun County Government center in Leesburg, Virginia on June 12, 2021. (Andrew Cballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images)

Loudoun County Requires Parents to Sign NDA-Style Form to View CRT-Influenced Curriculum

Parents in Loudoun County Public Schools (LCPS), Virginia, who want to view a new critical race theory (CRT)-influenced curriculum being taught in their childs school have to sign something similar to a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to view the program.

To review the Second Step curriculum, parents must acknowledge that the presentation of the material is not a public event and acknowledge that copying, broadcast or recording of any kind is prohibited.

Scott Mineo, a Loudoun County Parent leading the charge against critical race theory in grade school who heads PACT (Parents Against Critical Theory), told the Daily Caller that he finds the copyright laws suspicious.

LCPS is partners with Southern Poverty Law Center, Racial Equity Tools, and Learning for Justice (SPLC), all of which have copyrighted material, however, LCPS freely provides access to these materials, Mineo said. Why is there such a double standard when parents want to review Second Step SEL material in its entirety?

The Second Step curriculum is part of a program on Social Emotional Learning from the Committee for Children, a nonprofit that advertises free anti-racism and anti-bias resources.

The Second Step website promotes social-emotional learning. The website also includes material on so-called anti-racism and anti-bias while saying it is committed to addressing racial injustice and helping you drive real change in your school communities. According to the organization, the purpose of the materials is to implement social-emotional learning in a way that builds on students cultural assets, critically examines systems of power, and develops better ways of teaching, learning, and being.

Before viewing the Second Step Program, parents must acknowledge the materials can only be used in the classroom by educators.

The terms and conditions agreement, citing copyright as the reason for the document, states, LCPS may make an Authorized Presentation (defined below) of Materials to parents whose student(s) is/are currently enrolled in a school in LCPS (the Eligible Parents), through July 31, 2022 (or expiration of your current Second Step license, if earlier) (the Display Term).

Eligible parents must agree in writing to comply with the terms of this Special License, by signing in the space provided below, in advance. LCPS will retain copies of the Eligible Parents signed agreements, and provide copies of them to CFC upon request.

The Committee For Children did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Loudoun County has become a focal point for CRT with parents attending school board meetings to ask questions about why CRT, which based on Marxist critical theory, is being taught in schools. CRT, often billed under the title of equity and racial justice, is rooted in the idea that American institutions and systems are racist and dominated by white supremacy.

Loudoun County School District told Fox News that students are staff are not indoctrinated with CRT.

The interim superintendent has never denied that critical race theory is discussed at Loudoun County Public Schools. What he has stated is that students and staff are not indoctrinated into any school of thought or philosophy.
Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) speaks to reporters outside of his office on Capitol Hill in Washington on Oct. 06, 2021. Manchin spoke on the debt limit and the infrastructure bill. (PKevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Manchin Opposes Democrats IRS Snooping Scheme

Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) has come out against a revenue scheme proposed by his party that would have allowed the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to gather information on the inflows and outflows of American citizens bank accounts.

The measure initially came to light as a part of Democrats $3.5 trillion reconciliation bill. In an attempt to head off concerns from moderates, Democratic leaders and rank-and-file lawmakers have desperately marketed the bill as being completely paid for with no substantial effect on the deficit or national debt.

The proposal was met with immediate backlash from Republicans and the private sector.

House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) said, This surveillance program crosses a line, calling the program un-American.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said that Democrats want to finance their spending spree by effectively treating every ordinary American as if they were under IRS audit.

I must have forgotten when the president campaigned on giving everybody their own audit, McConnell quipped.

The original draft of the plan would have allowed the IRS to gather this information from any account with $600 or more in activity per year. Because of the sharp backlash against it, proponents of the measure raised the threshold to $10,000, a change that some hoped would cool the response.

Supporters of the plan, like Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, argued that the measure was good and would help to close the so-called tax gap, a gap formed from underreporting income.

We have a tax gap that over the next decade is estimated at $7 trillion, namely a shortfall in the amount that IRS is collecting due to a failure of individuals to report the income that they have earned, Yellen said.

But Manchin was not impressed by these arguments.

Speaking at a Tuesday meeting of the Economic Club in Washington, Manchin vehemently opposed the program.

Manchin agreed that the IRS should be somewhat strengthened. Under the reconciliation bill, insisted Manchin, The IRS is going to be able to do the job that theyre supposed to be doing.

But Manchin ruled that his partys snooping scheme did not fall into the category of what the IRS should be doing. [The IRS was] never able to go into bank accounts, he noted.

Manchin related a conversation hed had with President Joe Biden about the program: I said Mr. President, I dont know who put this out or how it got screwed up but they said basically, Were gonna start looking at $600 transactions. Even if its $10,000, okay, thats only $800 or $900 [of activity per month].

Manchin said that he asked the president, Do you understand how messed up that is? To think that Uncle Sams gonna be watching transactions?

I said I dont know how this happened, but this cannot happen. This is screwed up.

Manchin indicated that Biden agreed, quoting the president as saying I think Joes right on that.

Manchins opposition to his partys snooping scheme effectively leaves the measure dead on arrival. Because of their razor-thin single vote majority in the Senate, Democrats cannot afford anything less than full solidarity from their party behind the final bill.

Manchin and other moderates have already tanked a slew of revenue policies proposed by Democrats to ensure that the bill is fully paid for.

Sen. Kyrsten Sinemas (D-Ariz.) office on Friday confirmed long-circulated rumors that the Arizona senator opposed increasing corporate or income tax rates.

John LaBombard, a spokesman for Sinema, said that the senator is committed to ensuring everyday families can get ahead and that we continue creating jobs.

She has told her colleagues and the president that simply raising tax rates will not in any way address the challenge of tax avoidance or improve economic competitiveness, he explained.

Sen. Jon Tester (D-Mont.) joined Manchin in opposing a proposed carbon tax.

For Democrats who have marketed the bill as a panacea to the alleged climate crisis, a carbon tax or other similar measures are of crucial importance.

But Manchin told reporters that in his mind, the carbon tax is not on the board at all right now.

Tester told reporters, Im not a big fan of the carbon tax. I just dont think it works the way it was explained to me.

The party is now considering a new tax on unrealized capital gains that would target only individuals with $1 billion or more of income per year or individuals with $100 million of income for three consecutive years. Manchin, Sinema, and other moderates have not yet given a nod of approval to this most recent measure.
Marine Corps Warns Marines Will Be Kicked Out for Refusing COVID-19 Vaccine

New guidance from the U.S. Marines has said that Marines who dont get the COVID-19 vaccine face separation.

A Marine Administrative Message (MARADMIN) was posted to the Marine Corps website over the weekend, saying that Marines refusing the COVID-19 vaccination, absent an approved administrative or medical exemption, religious accommodation, or pending appeal shall be processed for administrative separation [in accordance with] this MARADMIN and supporting references.

General Court-Martial Convening Authorities (GCMCA) retain authority to take any additional adverse administrative or disciplinary action they deem appropriate, said the message, which was signed Oct. 23. It applies to both active-duty and reservists.

An order handed down by the Department of Defense several months ago stipulates that active-duty Marines face a Nov. 28 deadline to get fully vaccinated, while reservists face a Dec. 28 deadline to do the same.

According to the MARADMIN message, a Marine is deemed to have refused the vaccine if they cannot obtain a medical or administrative exemption, or a religious exemptionor if they have willfully disobeyed a lawful order from a superior commissioned officer to be vaccinated against COVID-19.

Marines who are kicked out for refusing the vaccine cannot be eligible for involuntary separation pay and will potentially face recoupment of any unearned special or incentive pays and advance educational assistance, according to the message.

The Marine Corps, in its most recent update, reported that 83 percent are fully vaccinated, and 92 percent are partially vaccinated. The Navy has said that 93 percent of active-duty sailors are inoculated, while 98 percent have gotten at least one dose.

Some Republican lawmakers raised concerns that the Pentagons vaccine mandate for service members would hurt morale or force many to leave, potentially triggering a national security issue.

A week ago, Sen. James Inhofe (R-Okla.), the ranking Republican on the Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin warning that mandates are haphazardly implemented and politically motivated and risk irrevocable damage to our national security, which is greater than any external threat.

Around the same time, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) said on the Senate floor that hes heard from nearly 300 servicemembers who said they would have to choose between serving in the military and getting the vaccine.

Its un-American, its unfair and its immoral, Lee said before adding that hes not anti-vaccine and is himself vaccinated.

But during a press conference on Monday, Pentagon press secretary John Kirby asserted that the vaccine bolsters national security.

We believe that the vast, vast majority, and the numbers are bearing that out, of our men and women understand that too, and are getting the shots and are getting themselves protected so that they can also protect their families, their units and their communities, Kirby said.

About two weeks ago, the Navy released its own message stipulating that active-duty or reservist personnel would be kicked out for not getting the COVID-19 vaccine.
Minnesota Surgeon Fired After Speaking Against Mask Mandates at School Board Meeting

A veteran surgeon in Minnesota has lost his job after he advocated at a school board meeting parents right to opt their children out of mask mandates.

Hundreds of people on Monday rallied in Fergus Falls, a west-central Minnesota town, in support of Dr. Jeffrey Horak, who has worked at local Lake Region Healthcare for 16 years until last week, when the medical group that owns the facility fired him.

Horak spoke to attendees, some of whom held up signs with slogans such as No to Cancel Culture and Parents Should Choose, saying that he has received many supportive messages from the community since his firing.

At the request of parents in this community, as a professional physician, I spoke to the Fergus Falls school board meeting, Horak told the crowd. I shared my expertise. Nine days later, I was asked to resign or be terminated. I choose to be terminated.

A video circulating on social media shows Horak arguing at the Oct. 11 meeting that parents should be able to decide whether their children wears a mask at school. Despite opposition from the doctor and several other community members, the board voted to approve a two-week mask mandate for elementary school students, which expired on Oct. 25.

This mandate across the board, thats a tough place to go, said Horak, who can be seen wearing his hospital scrubs. He argued that the idea that young children need to wear masks, or that theyre effective in protecting against the virus, is not based on scientific evidence, but on fear.

Know what, this is about fear, he said. This is about death. Everybody around here is scared that a kid might die in this community.

Who does God put in charge of their kids? Their parents, Horak told the board. God gave each one of these kids to their parents. Their parents speak for them, and they may be wrong, dumb, or perfect in their decision-making, but its still their responsibility. Its their responsibility, not yours.

During the rally on Monday, Horak again encouraged the community to keep a strong faith and not be driven by fear.

You spoke up about God and our rights, so we could live our lives with faith knowing God will take care of us instead of living in fearthe fear that has been pushed these so many months, he said.

While Horaks contract doesnt allow him or his employer from discussing the specific reasons for his termination, some community members speculate that it is related to his remarks at the school board meeting.

Were very proud of him. For him to stand up and lose his job tells you something about the man, Rick Bolinske, who described himself as a family friend of Horak, told Valley News Live, a local NBC affiliate. Hes an incredible man, theres no way he should lose his job for what he has said. Weve lost our freedoms.

In a statement to Valley News Live, Lake Region Medical Group, which owns Lake Region Healthcare, confirmed Horaks departure, but didnt specify the reason.

We sincerely appreciate Dr. Horaks 16 years of service to our patients and our organizations and we wish him the best as he transitions his practice from here, the medical group said.
Geese and debris line the Lake Michigan shoreline at Chicago's 31st Street beach as a wind advisory remains in effect with wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph causing high battering waves and lakefront flooding on Oct. 25, 2021. (AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast)

Missouri Tornado Confirmed as Storms Swept Into Illinois

FREDERICKTOWN, Mo.The National Weather Service has confirmed a strong tornado that thrashed the southeastern Missouri city of Fredericktown as strong storms that swept the state and moved into Illinois overnight damaged buildings and knocked out power, but left no serious injuries.

The National Weather Service confirmed an EF-3 tornado hit Fredericktown Sunday night, damaging homes, businesses and the main electrical substation that feeds power to the city of about 4,000. A tornado with that rating is considered strong, and wind speeds range from 136-165 mph.

The National Weather Service said preliminary reports indicate up to six tornadoes may have touched down in across northern Missouri. Teams were surveying the damage Monday, but the service said it could take days to fully assess the damage.

Fredericktown schools called off classes for Monday due to communitywide power outages and damages incurred by families in the storm, The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reported.

Fredericktown is about 85 miles south of St. Louis.

We had a large, classic fall storm system that developed over the central part of the country. It strengthened as it passed over the St. Louis region, weather service meteorologist Jared Maples, based in St. Charles, Missouri, told The Associated Press on Monday.

The storms dropped heavy rain, leading to some flooding around tributaries and in low-lying areas.

The weather service reported over 2.5 inches of rain fell in the Chicago area during storms that started Sunday and continued into Monday. Peak winds of 48 mph were recorded at about 9:30 a.m. Monday at Chicago Midway International Airport.

The service was also surveying damage from a suspected tornado at St. Mary, Missouri, about 55 miles southeast of St. Louis, that crossed the Mississippi River into Chester, Illinois. The damage included roofs torn from buildings and toppled trees and utility poles.

Possible tornadoes were reported just west of Kingston, Missouri, with other possible tornadoes near Linneus and Winigan in north central Missouri.

An EF-2 tornado was confirmed in Purdin, a small town of about 20 in north central Linn County, the weather service said. The tornado had a maximum winds of 120 mph but no injuries were reported.

The weather service confirmed two EF-O tornadoes touched down near Sedalia, about 77 miles southeast of Kansas City. No serious damage or injuries were reported.

In Chester, a city of about 8,700 across the Mississippi River from St. Mary, residents reported damage that included a tree falling onto one home and roof damage to a nursing home, said Larry Willis, a spokesman for the Randolph County Emergency Management Agency.

Willis said the nearby village of Bremen took a direct hit before the storm dissipated about a mile east of that community. In its wake, a large storage building in Bremen was destroyed, and Illinois Route 150 was closed due to downed power lines and power poles.

One St. Mary resident, Tina Lowry, was in bed and her sister was in the living room when they heard a whooshing sound Sunday night. Lowry said she took shelter in her closet and her sister hunkered down in the bedroom as the home was ripped apart. Vehicles also were destroyed by the storm.

Im just happy were alive, she said.

The severe weather in the Midwest came as a powerful storm barreled toward Southern California after flooding highways, toppling trees and causing mud flows in areas burned bare by recent fires across the northern part of the state. Drenching showers and strong winds accompanied the storm.

The system that hit the Midwest continued east into the Ohio Valley on Monday, said weather service meteorologist Alex Elmore, who is based in St. Charles.

It has weakened as it moves east, Elmore said. There is a chance of severe weather later Monday in the Carolinas and portions of Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee.

Forecasters are expecting more stormy weather later in the week. On Tuesday afternoon, parts of Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas could see severe storms, according to the Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma. Forecasters said those storms could bring large hail, strong winds and isolated tornadoes.
Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco, with Assistant Attorney General Kenneth Polite Jr. of the Justice Department's Criminal Division, speaks during a news at the Department of Justice in Washington on Oct. 26, 2021. (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP Photo)

150 Arrested in US-Europe Crackdown on DarkNet Drug Trafficking

WASHINGTONAn international operation targeting trafficking in opioids on a clandestine part of the internet called the DarkNet has led to about 150 arrests in the United States and Europe and the seizure of drugs, cash, and guns, U.S. and European authorities said on Tuesday.

The crackdown, called Operation Dark HunTor, was announced at a U.S. Justice Department news conference where Deputy U.S Attorney General Lisa Monaco warned cyberspace drug sellers: There is no dark internet. We can and we will shed a light.

Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, deputy director of the international police agency Europol, hailed the results of Operation Dark HunTor as spectacular. He said the operation sends a message that no one is beyond the reach of law enforcement, even on the dark web. The DarkNet and dark web are related terms concerning a part of the internet accessible only using a specialized web browser and the assortment of internet sites residing there.

An opioid epidemic has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in the United States alone in the past two decades due to overdoses from prescription painkillers and illegal substances, constituting an enduring public health crisis.

The Dark HunTor operation produced arrests of 150 people accused of being drug traffickers and others accused of engaging in sales of illicit goods and services.

There were 65 arrests in the United States, 47 in Germany, 24 in the United Kingdom, four each in the Netherlands and Italy, three in France, two in Switzerland, and one in Bulgaria, the Justice Department said.

The department added that the operation resulted in seizures of more than $31.6 million in cash and virtual currencies as well as 45 firearms. It added that about 234 kilograms (515 pounds) of drugs including more than 200,000 ecstasy, fentanyl, oxycodone, hydrocodone and methamphetamine pills were seized, along with counterfeit medicines.

Kenneth Polite, head of the Justice Departments Criminal Division, said such trafficking presents a global threat and it requires a global response.

The Justice Department said the crackdown built on operations conducted in late 2020 and early 2021 to disrupt dark web trafficking. It said that in January, an international crackdown targeted DarkMarket, the worlds largest dark web international marketplace.

By Mark Hosenball
A crane moves building materials into the circular reinforced concrete and steel home of a reactor at Nuclear Island 1, at Hinkley Point C nuclear power plant near Bridgwater in Somerset, England on Sept. 23, 2021. (Ben Birchall/PA)

New Nuclear Funding Model Frees UK to Squeeze out Chinese Investment

The UK government is making it easier to invest in nuclear power stations, lowering the table stakes with a new financing model which they hope will attract local private investors in place of overseas developers.

The announcement on Oct. 26 does not mention the governments growing discomfort over the involvement of a Chinese state-backed developer in building its flagship 20 billion ($27.5 billion) nuclear reactor.

But the new financing model, which shifts the financial risk to consumers, provides a mechanism to now squeeze out CCP-backed CGN from its 20 percent stake in Sizewell C without invoking national security laws that would likely crank up tensions with Beijing.

The current funding model means that only international corporations with deep pockets can afford the risk and time scale of investing in the multi-billion pound power plants.

The existing financing scheme led to too many overseas nuclear developers walking away from projects, setting Britain back years, said Business and Energy Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng in a statement. We urgently need a new approach to attract British funds and other private investors to back new large-scale nuclear power stations in the UK.

That new approach adopts the same method as used for other large-scale infrastructure projects, such as water, gas, and electricity networks, known as the Regulated Asset Base (RAB).

Recent examples include the Thames Tideway Tunnel and Heathrows Terminal 5.

The scheme allows licensed investors to start passing on the costs to consumers during construction, although prices are set by a regulator.

The proposed Sizewell C plant is the only large-scale nuclear development project in the country and is currently 80 percent funded by Frances EDF and 20 percent by Chinas CGN, under a deal struck six years ago. The UK governments appetite for Chinese investment in infrastructure has since soured.

Last year the UK government reversed its position on Huawei, banning the Chinese telecoms giant from its 5G mobile phone network last year.

Under growing pressure from America and prominent Conservative backbenchers, the government has indicated a growing appetite to cut out CGN from Sizewell, but had no available mechanism under current rules.

With the new model, EDF will be able to forge new partnerships with alternative private investors before the business secretary finally signs off on the project.

The government claims that the new financing model is also ultimately cheaper and will save consumers 30 billion ($41.3 billion) in the long run.

Currently, approximately 16 percent of the UKs electricity generation comes from nuclear power and the RAB model will play an important role in attracting private investors to back new large-scale nuclear power stations, working alongside renewables on an increasingly low-carbon electricity grid, said a statement from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

Greenpeace UK chief scientist, Dr. Doug Parr, said that the model has already been used in the United States.

The results were disastrous. It transfers huge financial risk from the builders to bill payers. In South Carolina, 18 percent of residents energy bills went to pay for a half-built reactor which has been abandoned and will never produce electricity, he said.

Some analysts say that nuclear power is potentially more costly than other low-carbon alternatives.

Under the current model, energy giant EDF said it could deliver electricity for 89.50 ($123.21) per megawatt hour from its new Sizewell C nuclear site.

But some offshore wind projects that will come online in two years will charge as little as 39.65 ($54.59) per megawatt hour.

Nuclear proponents, however, say that the technology provides a zero-carbon source of electricity which is less volatile than wind or solar. When the wind is not blowing the turbines cannot produce anything, which requires something to take their place.

PA contributed to this article
People march across the Brooklyn Bridge to protest the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for municipal workers in New York City on Oct. 25, 2021. (David Dee Delgado/Getty Images)

New York City Employees Protest Vaccine Mandate As Deadline Looms

New York City municipal workers protested in the thousands on Monday against a looming vaccine mandate as the deadline looms for about 160,500 city employees, including first responders, to get a first dose of the COVID-19 jab.

The expanded mandate means a total of more than 300,000 city employees will be hit with vaccine mandates by Nov. 1.

The thousands of protesters met in Brooklyn before marching peacefully across the Brooklyn Bridge. They proceeded to City Hall in Manhattan.

The protesters, including a large presence of police and firefighters, carried large American flags and multiple signs and banners. Workers are essential, mandates are not, one sign reads. Another said, No jab for my job.

Municipal workers hold placards and shout slogans as they march across Brooklyn Bridge during a protest against the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, in New York, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images)

Municipal workers hold placards and shout slogans during a protest against the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, in New York, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images)

Municipal workers protest against the COVID-19 vaccine mandate, in New York, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images)

The protest comes after Mayor Bill de Blasio announced a sweeping mandate last week requiring the entire municipal workforce to have at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by Nov. 1. The new mandate replaced what was originally a requirement to take the vaccine or be tested weekly.

Each city employee would also receive an extra $500 in their paycheck for receiving the first shot at a city-run site before Oct. 29. Those who choose not to take the vaccine will be placed on unpaid leave [starting Nov. 1] until they show proof of vaccination to their supervisor.

The New York City government did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

People protest the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for municipal workers in New York City on Oct. 25, 2021. (David Dee Delgado/Getty Images)

People protest the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for municipal workers in New York City, on Oct. 25, 2021. (David Dee Delgado/Getty Images)

People protest the COVID-19 vaccine mandate for municipal workers in New York City, on Oct. 25, 2021. (David Dee Delgado/Getty Images)

The Police Benevolent Association filed a lawsuit on the same day against the city to halt the sweeping mandate, seeking to block the suit. The union argued that the city had offered no explanation, much less a rational one, for the need to violate autonomy and privacy of NYPD officers in such a severe manner, on the threat of termination.

De Blasio said last week that about 46,000 city workers of the 160,000 remain unvaccinated.

The mandate deadline of Oct. 29 does not apply to uniformed correction officers. They have until Dec. 1 to receive their first shot, owing to an ongoing staffing shortage at Rikers Island.

Previously, only staff under the Department of Education and health workers were given the COVID-19 vaccine mandate.
An exam room is seen at the Planned Parenthood South Austin Health Center in Austin, Texas, on June 27, 2016. (Ilana Panich-Linsman/Reuters)

Ohio and 11 States Sue Biden Administration Over Abortion Funds

Ohio on Monday filed a lawsuit against the Biden administration, which had recently allowed taxpayer dollars to be used by clinics to support abortions.

The lawsuit, led by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost, is joined by 11 other states. The states are seeking to restore the Trump administration rule so that medical clinics cannot obtain funding from Title X, a federal grant program, toward performing or referring abortions.

The Department of Health and Human Services under President Donald Trump in 2019 issued a rule that prohibits the use of Title X funds to perform, promote, refer for, or support abortion as a method of family planning. The rule also requires clear financial and physical separation between Title X and non-Title X activities.

The Biden administration on Oct. 4 revoked the Trump-era rule such that starting Nov. 8, clinics receiving federal funds will be allowed to refer pregnant women for abortions.

Dave Yost in Columbus, Ohio, on Nov. 6, 2018. (Justin Merriman/Getty Images)

Yost, a Republican, said that the litigation to reinstate the Trump-era rule is to ultimately ensure that federally-funded clinics can only receive taxpayer funding for family planning services other than abortion.

You cant follow the money when all the money is dumped into one pot and mixed together, Yost said in a statement. Federal law prohibits taxpayer funding of abortionand that law means nothing if the federal money isnt kept separate.

The 11 states joining the lawsuit are Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and West Virginia.

The lawsuit follows a letter Yost and 20 other states sent to Health and Human Services in May warning the Biden administration against reversing the Trump-era rule.

A Planned Parenthood facility in Anaheim, Calif., on Sept. 10, 2020. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

The family planning grant program was originally established by Congress in the 1970s as Title X of the Public Health Service Act. It was intended to provide funding for certain types of pre-pregnancy family planning services for low-income individuals.

The Department of Health and Human Services 1988 under President Ronald Reagan put regulations in place to explicitly forbid clinics receiving Title X funds from providing counseling or referrals for abortion as a method of family planning.

Those regulations were suspended several years later under the administration of President Bill Clinton in 2000. The changes under the Clinton administration meant clinics receiving Title X funds were not only allowed, but actually required, to refer patients to abortion providers.

Between 2014 and 2019, Title X offered more than $280 million a year to clinics serving primarily low-income individuals, to provide birth control and basic health care services.

The Trump-era rule prompted Planned Parenthood and a number of other entities to leave the grant program.

At the time, Planned Parenthood characterized the rule as a direct attack on its reproductive health services, which includes abortion. The organization performs more than 330,000 abortions a year.

Petr Svab, Janita Kan, Zachary Stieber, and The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Parents gather to express their concerns over vaccine mandates for students at the Placentia Yorba Linda Unified School District building in Placentia, Calif., on Oct. 12, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Ohio School Board Group Severs Ties With National Organization Over Domestic Terrorism Letter

The Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) board of trustees has voted to cut ties with the National School Board Association (NSBA) over the latters attempt to have federal agents police school board meetings across the country.

The Board of Trustees decision was prompted by NSBAs recent letter to President Joe Biden requesting federal intervention at local school board meetings, OSBA Chief Executive Officer Rick Lewis said Tuesday in a press release (pdf).

The letter in question (pdf), which was sent on Sept. 29, urged that federal law enforcement step in to handle threats or actual acts of violence against school leaders, alleging that angry mobs of parents who sought to express opposition to COVID-19 restrictions and the teaching of critical race theory have been inciting chaos during school board meetings.

As these acts of malice, violence, and threats against public school officials have increased, the classification of these heinous actions could be the equivalent to a form of domestic terrorism and hate crime, the NSBA argued in the letter, encouraging the federal government to invoke laws designed to counter terrorism, such as the PATRIOT Act, to address the alleged threats.

The Ohio school board group said they were not consulted by the national federation about the crafting of the letter, nor did they agree with the letters content.

We were not informed of or asked for any input into the creation of the letter sent to the president, Lewis said, adding that while its important to keep parental and community discussion at school board meetings free from violence and harassment, such interference should be dealt with at the local level, not by federal officials.

We believe the letter from NSBA leadership demonstrated how out of touch the national association is with the concerns of local school boards and the principle of local control. Because of that, OSBA no longer sees the value of continued NSBA membership, he said.

The announcement comes after the NSBA walked back its widely criticized message, saying that there was no justification for some of the language included in the letter.

We should have had a better process in place to allow for consultation on a communication of this significance, the NSBA said. We apologize also for the strain and stress this situation has caused you and your organizations.

The OSBA is the latest in a string of state school board organizations that have reevaluated or ended their membership in NSBA over the letter. According to statements collected by advocacy group Parents Defending Education, as of Oct. 21, 21 state chapters have distanced themselves from the national organization, with most of them clarifying that they were not consulted about the letter.
Shipping containers wait to be transferred from the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach on Oct. 14, 2021. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Over 400 Citations Issued for Illegally Stored Shipping Containers in Wilmington

As dockers work around the clock to mitigate backlogs at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, empty shipping containers have been abandoned in nearby neighborhoods, according to officials.

Over 400 citations have been issued over the last several weeks for illegally stored containers in Wilmington, a neighborhood in the Harbor region of Los Angeles, said Thomas Gazsi, the chief of Los Angeles Port Police.

We are very aware of the impact its having and  [officers] have been out in the neighborhoods addressing as much as possible, particularly the residential areas where driveways are obstructed and folks are having difficulty leaving in the morning for school work and variety of other things, Gazsi said during an Oct. 21 harbor commissioners meeting.

Gazsi said port patrol, community resource, and commercial enforcement officers will provide support to affected residents.

Eugene Seroka, executive director of the Port of Los Angeles, stated in the meeting that more plans will be made to ensure the containers are properly placed.

A container fell from a truck earlier this month crushing an empty car parked on Anaheim Street in Wilmington. Though no injuries were reported, the incident prompted what is now growing concerns about shipping containers left abandoned.

Meanwhile, the City of Long Beach has temporarily waived shipping container stacking and height limits until mid-January to help to alleviate the nationwide supply chain crisis.

Aside from the abandoned shipping containers, other issues from port operations have been bothering the neighborhood for years according to local news reports, and the situation worsened amid the port backlog. Many local residents have installed barricades to prevent trucks from coming down their streets.

Kids cant even play, Wilmington resident John Salas told ABC7. Trucks come down the street and theyre not even supposed to. Its not even a through street.
A view of a vehicle next to a fence built by Polish soldiers on the border between Poland and Belarus near the village of Nomiki, Poland, on Aug. 26, 2021. (Kacper Pempel/Reuters)

Poland Introduces Bill to Strengthen Military as More Troops Enforce Border Crisis

Poland again sent thousands of troops to further strengthen its border defenses with neighboring Belarus as officials also presented plans on Tuesday for a bill to defend the fatherland which aims at building up the Polish military.

We are increasing the number of soldiers helping the Border Guard by 2,500, Mariusz Blaszczak wrote on Twitter. Soon, about 10,000 soldiers from the 12th, 16th, and 18th divisions will be watching over the security of the border, the countrys national defense minister added.

Meanwhile, Jaroslaw Kaczynski, who holds the position of deputy prime minister in Poland, said on Oct. 26 that a deteriorating international situation has enacted the countrys ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party to present a new bill.

The bill is aimed at replacing an existing one from 1967, Kaczynski said. It will back increasing the defense budget and the size of the army and introduce simpler recruitment rules but does not involve reinstating compulsory military service.

Kaczynski also said Poland hopes to strengthen its forces by buying U.S.-produced military equipment, but would also look at European-made weapons.

Jaroslaw Kaczynski, leader of Polands ruling Law and Justice (PiS) party, speaks during the partys campaign convention in Kielce, Poland, on Oct. 9, 2019. (Wojtek Radwanski/AFP via Getty Images)

The bill comes as the Polish government declared a state of emergency last month in several areas along the countrys border with Belarus and also announced plans to spend more than $400 million on improving its border defense by building a solid barrier.

Thousands of illegal immigrants, mostly from Iraq and Afghanistan, have tried to unlawfully enter the country from neighboring Belarus. The Polish Border Guard also said in a statement in August that illegal border crossings have reached record heights.

Polish authorities have repeatedly said the situation along the border is in crisis and blamed authoritarian Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko for sending the immigrants into Polish territory as a way to create instability in Europe.

Over the weekend, a group that included dozens of illegal immigrants tried to force their way through the Belarus-Polish border twice and while doing so, injured two soldiers, who both required treatment at a hospital, the border guard said. Troops have been pushing illegal immigrants back across the border to stem a rising surge, a move that has been criticized by some human rights officials.

As a result of these events, two Polish soldiers were hospitalized, one of them was hit in the face with a stone, the other with a branch, Polish Border Guard spokeswoman Anna Michalska said during a news conference. These people are not in any danger, they have left the hospital.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

From NTD News
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), right, and Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) at a press conference in Washington in an April 2019 file photograph. (Saul Loeb/AFP via Getty Images)

Progressives Scale Back Demands for Passage of Infrastructure Bill

House Progressives are cautiously scaling back on their demands for passage of the $1.2 trillion infrastructure bill, passed in August by a bipartisan vote in the Senate.

For months, progressives in the lower chamber have broadcasted demands that the House not move to consider the infrastructure bill before passage of the much more expansive budget bill. Progressives insisted that they could not count on their moderate colleagues to pass the budget if the infrastructure bill was already passed.

Now, they are ceding an inch on these demands, saying that they will consider the infrastructure bill with the presidents assurance that the budget bill will pass both chambers.

My view is that the presidents word, saying, I have the commitment of 50 senators and those 50 senators are going to vote for this bill and here are the details, thats good enough, said Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) on Fox News Sunday.

Im confident we will have an agreement. Im confident that the president will be able to give his word to the House caucus that he has that agreement, he added.

Another member of the 95-strong caucus of House progressives, Rep. Mondaire Jones (D-N.Y.), agreed.

I want an assurance from the president, for example, that we will pass this larger social safety net package, because that contains the bulk of his proposals [and] is why he has joined progressives in calling for the passage of both of these bills, said Jones on CNN.

Like Khanna, Jones was cautiously optimistic that the months-long tug of war between moderates and progressives is coming to a close.

He explained, The speaker has expressed optimism about reaching some agreement this week. I await that proposal, and Im looking forward to delivering the presidents agenda on behalf of all Americans.

However, Democrats may yet be a long way off from reaching such an agreement.

At an Oct. 19 luncheon, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) raised hopes among Democrats that an agreement was right around the corner.

Schumer then said that there is universal agreement in the room that we have to come to an agreement on the reconciliation bill, adding that Democrats hope to reach a framework agreement by the end of the week.

Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.) showed the same optimism.

Speaking to reporters after the lunch, she said that holdouts in the party are walking through what they support [and] what they dont support.

Were seeing a path, Stabenow said.

But these hopes were dashed after the weekend deadline came and went with no resolution reached.

Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.), a moderate who has been especially resistant to his partys demands, told reporters on Thursday that his deal with other Democrats needed more time.

I think that theyre making good progress, Manchin said, while explained, Theres a lot of details. Until you see the text and the fine print, its pretty hard to make final decisions until you actually see.

He continued, You can have the intent. You have to make sure the text matches the intent.

This is not gonna happen any time soon guys, the West Virginia Democrat warned.

But Khanna indicated that the president sees this period as crunch time to work out a deal.

The president looked at us in the eye and he said, I need this before I go represent the United States in Glasgow. American prestige is on the line, Khanna reported the president as saying.

While passage of the infrastructure bill would represent a huge win for President Joe Bidens agenda, progressives remain adamant that they need some assurance that moderates will not bail on them. As negotiations threaten to drag on, that assurance may be difficult for these progressives to receive before Biden goes to the Glasglow Climate Summit on Oct. 31.
Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) is seen during a hearing in Washington on July 16, 2019. (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP Photo)

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema Confronted by Climate Change Advocate at Airport

Sen. Kyrsten Sinema (D-Ariz.) was confronted Monday at the airport by a woman who walked in close proximity and told the lawmaker to vote for Democrats $3.5 trillion climate change legislation.

The airport provocation is the second time protestors have confronted Sinema and insisted she vote in favor of President Joe Bidens social services and climate change package. Earlier this month, Sinema was followed into a bathroom at Arizona State University by four people who wanted her to vote for immigration reform to give citizenship to illegal immigrants who were brought to the country as children.

The most recent confrontation shows Sinema walking briskly with two men, talking to one, when the climate advocate approaches her and walks closely next to her and says, Im from Tucson, Arizona, and Im wondering, I know youve met with dozens of lobbyists

Sinema tells the woman, Please dont touch me. Sinema then continues talking to the man next to her. The woman responds, I did not touch you.

The female constituent then continues: I know youre meeting with dozens of lobbyists and talking with corporate donors about the package. The woman urges Sinema to answer her and says her family and people are suffering and she can help by voting for Bidens climate change provisions.

Sinema has been one of two Democrat senators who has raised concerns about the spending in her partys $3.5 trillion budget reconciliation package that would broaden federal social welfare programs and mandate a move to clean energy to combat climate change.

Because the U.S. Senate is split evenly, with 50 Republicans and 50 Democrats, Sinemas vote has become crucial to passing any legislation. But Sinema has been adamant that she does not want to spend trillions more, nor does she agree with the Democrats tax revenue plan.

For weeks, Sinema has reportedly told colleagues that she will not support an increase in the corporate or income tax rate, leaving Democrats scrambling to find new revenue schemes.

After months of no comment, Sinemas office confirmed these reports Friday. John LaBombard, a spokesman for Sinema, said that the senator is committed to ensuring everyday families can get ahead and that we continue creating jobs.

She has told her colleagues and the president that simply raising tax rates will not in any way address the challenge of tax avoidance or improve economic competitiveness, he explained.

While the majority of Democrat senators have fallen in line with Bidens economic agenda, Sinema and moderate Democrat Sen. Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.) have said they will not vote for trillions more in spending, causing Democrats to renegotiate the cost and provisions in the final reconciliation bill.

Sinema condemned her own party for its inexcusable failure to hold a vote on the bipartisan infrastructure plan after House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) canceled the vote, stating that more time is needed.

The left-wing Congressional Progressive Caucus, a bloc of nearly 100 House members, doesnt want to pass bipartisan infrastructure without the lower chamber first passing the mammoth budget piecenow said to be some $2 trillionbut moderates say the proposals should be considered separately and have urged a vote on the $1.2 trillion bipartisan infrastructure bill.

Sinema was one of the Democratic senators who helped negotiate the smaller bipartisan infrastructure bill along with GOP senators and the white house during the summer.

Joseph Lord and Katabella Roberts contributed to this report.
NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian speaks to the media during a COVID-19 press conference in Sydney, Australia, on Sept. 9, 2021 (Bianca De Marchi - Pool/Getty Images)

Senior Staffers Defend Former Premier at Corruption Inquiry

A senior staffer of the former New South Wales (NSW) premier, Gladys Berejiklian, has told a corruption inquiry that while the state leader should have declared her relationship with Daryl Maguire as a conflict of interest, she always behaved by the rules in a principled fashion.

The NSW anti-corruption watchdog is investigating whether Berejiklian breached public interest or turned a blind eye to the corruption of her former secret partner, Maguire.

Neil Harley, Berejiklians chief of staff from February 2020, told the inquiry that the former premier never treated Maguire or his electorate, Wagga Wagga, favourably.

Never.  I cannot recall a single occasion when Ms Berejiklian raised with me either Mr Maguire or the Wagga Wagga electorate. Not a single occasion, Harley told the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC).

Harley said that had he and others known about the relationship between Berejiklian and Maguire, appropriate advice would have been sought on how to manage the conflict of interest.

He also defended Berejiklian, saying she had always stuck to the rules and never acted out of line.

I have never, ever, in my time in politics, known a person more fiercely committed to public service, and serving the people of the state than Ms Berejiklian, Harley said.

NSW Deputy Premier John Barilaro speaks as NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian looks on during a COVID-19 update and news conference in Sydney, Australia, on July 28, 2021. (Lisa Maree Williams Pool/Getty Images)

Former deputy premier, John Barilaro, told ICAC yesterday that if he had known about the relationship that everything to do with any grants championed by Maguire would have been dealt with differently.

Barilaro noted that there were some aspects of the funding application for the gun club that were unusual, but said he does not remember Berejiklian advocating for it during the committee meeting.

Barilaro said the main issue was that Berejiklian should have declared her conflict of interest.

Ive seen many of us declare conflicts of interest for just knowing someone because we worked with someone or have been an associate with someone, let alone being in a relationship, he said.

But similarly to Harley, he believed that she was a person of high integrity.

The issue here is a breach, maybe, of the Ministerial Code through a conflict of interest. That is for the commission to determine, but no, there is no corruption, Barilaro told media outside of the inquiry.

All witnesses called for questioning have thus far said that the former premier should have disclosed her relationship earlier. But no concrete evidence of corruption has been presented.

Berejiklian is expected to appear before the committee this Friday and next Monday.
The logo of the Venezuelan state oil company PDVSA is seen next to a mural depicting Venezuela's late President Hugo Chavez at a gas station in Caracas, Venezuela, on March 2, 2017. (Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters)

Socialist Venezuela Had Up to 50,000 Oil Spills From 2010 to 2016

'Why does it [Venezuela] seem to get a pass' compared to Bolsonaros Brazil?

On Oct. 25, a Center for Strategic and International Studies panel discussed some of the environmental damage occurring in Venezuela, which has been led since 1999 by socialist Hugo Chavez and, since Chavezs death in 2013, socialist Nicolas Maduro.

Sponsored by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), much of the event focused on the damage caused by Venezuelas offshore oil drilling, which has caused many under- or unreported spills, including near vulnerable coral reefs at the marine Morrocoy National Park, as well as drilling in Lake Maracaibo.

As many as 50,000 oil leaks and spills occurred between 2010 and 2016 across Venezuela, including Lake Maracaibo, as drilling rigs, thousands of miles of aging pipelines, and storage tanks in need of repair are decaying or leaking, according to a NASA report that cited information from news agencies, environmental groups, and human rights advocates.

According to Eduardo Klein, an associate professor in the Department of Environmental Studies at Venezuelas Simon Bolivar University, oil spills are very lightly taken in the country, in part because the industry is under government control via the state-owned oil company, PDVSA.

Klein added that Venezuela partners with companies and countries, including Russia and Vietnam, with poor environmental records.

Klein blamed the startlingly high rate of oil spills on multiple factors. Among them the fact that the government relies on old, poorly maintained infrastructure and cannot effectively clean up spills when they happen.

Whats more, it does not typically issue official statements on spills.

Speakers also discussed Venezuelas criminal mining policy, which has impacted large portions of the highly biodiverse Amazon basin.

Cristina Burelli, a Venezuelan American entrepreneur who leads the environmentalist V5Initiative, told the panel that Venezuelas ecologically damaging activities are inherently tied to its political situation, as the Maduro regime is sacrificing its natural resources and biodiversity to shield itself from mounting international pressure.

Burelli has also been a liaison for the pro-environmental group SOSOrinoco, which works undercover to expose the Maduro regimes environmental and humanitarian crimes in southern Venezuela, including its partnerships with FARC and other left-wing Colombian guerillas.

Burelli tied the countrys mining policy to a rise in malaria, which has been concentrated in the countrys mining area and which travels to other parts of South America and the world with Venezuelan migrants.

The Lancet reported that malaria in the country has surged 1,200 percent since 2000, a year after Chavez took power, reaching roughly 467,421 cases in 2019 alone.

Panelists also took a question from a listener who wondered why Venezuela [seem]s to get a pass as compared with Brazil, led by the conservative Jair Bolsonaro.

Why havent we heard about it [Venezuela] up to this point? the listener was quoted as asking.

Michael Eddy, an acting regional administrator for USAID, said that Brazil is considered synonymous with the Amazon and with climate change, making it seem like a natural focus for environmental campaigns.

Earlier in the discussion, Eddy had credited Brazil, but not Venezuela, with partnering with USAID to balance economic development with rainforest conservation.

Francisco Dallmeier, the Venezuelan-born director of the Center for Conservation and Sustainability at the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute and the National Zoo, said that many Venezuelans who would speak out may not feel safe doing so.

Being there, you have to think every day, how am I going to survive? said Dallmeier.

Burelli, of the V5Initiative, said that Chavez and Maduro had both been very adept at pitching themselves as pro-environment and pro-indigenous.

Nobody really checked to see if that was true, she said.

Panelists agreed that the countrys oil spills and illegal mining should no longer be obscured.

The world needs to know what is happening in Venezuela, said Klein.
St. Augustine is open for business and has been including in its promotional information that it is a safe place to be. Photo taken Oct. 12, 2021. (Jann Falkenstern/Epoch Times)

St. Augustine: A Model on How to Thrive During a Pandemic

Tourism dollars from the historic St. Augustine area help Floridas St. Johns Count fund its schools, roads, and bridges.

So when the CCP virus shut down the tourism industry in the United States and the world, the county faced the prospect of a devastating hit to its budget.

Instead, the opposite happened all thanks to the citys proactive measures. So what can businesses do to survive, even thrive, during a pandemic?

Irving Kass, the owner of St. George Inn and Suites, said they had to renovate and reinvent.

I know it goes against every business model to renovate and spend money during a shutdown, he said. Everyone thought I was crazy. But it worked.

Irving Kass reviews wine inventory with Nicole Pimental, guest services for the St. George Inn, on Oct. 14, 2021. (Jann Falkenstern/Epoch Times)

Kass said that St. Augustine was once known as a place that you came in fourth grade to learn about the history.

Founded in 1565 by Spaniard Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles, St. Augustine is the nations oldest European-founded city.

St. Augustine was not a vacation destination 25 years ago, Kass said, but that all changed through a combination of reinvention and changes in business models. The 2008 recession had a lot to do with the progress the city has seen, according to Kass.

This area is full of peoplefor whatever reasonmaybe a downsizing from the 2008 recession, but there are a lot of professionals here that were once with Fortune 500 companies who had an idea and ran with it, he said. There are a lot of competent people here.

Kass said they came to St. Augustine and found a way to build a better mousetrap, he said laughing.

The days of buying touristy trinkets are gone. People are now buying upscale things and are being more selective about who they buy forlike someone who kept their dog, or picked up their mail while they were gone; they are buying more things like specialty wine, or a bottle of olive oil that is locally made. People want quality and they are willing to pay for it.

Kass said he noticed consumer behavior has changed since the pandemic thus creating a demand for what St. Augustine has to offer.

George Street has plenty of mid-week tourists on Oct. 14, 2021. During weekends, visitor numbers triple. (Jann Falkenstern/Epoch Times)

People are reevaluating their lives, he said. Theyre spending more flexible dollars because they have been conditioned to believe there may not be a tomorrow.

An August study of consumer sentiment, by the University of Florida, showed a marked drop in Floridians confidence about the economy. It fell 4.7 points to 78.7 from 83.4 in July 2021. Nationwide the index fell more than twice as much, dropping 10.9 points.

While the states confidence drop paints a bleak picture, the crowds that fill the streets on a weekday afternoon in historic downtown St. Augustine beg to differ, and it demands the question: what is the city doing right?

The only thing that Kass can attribute this to is that people were tired of being locked down and wanted to visit an area that was safe where they had the freedom to move about as they pleased. He attributed the success of not only St. Augustine, but Florida as a whole, to the leadership of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.

Originally built as a gristmill in the 1880s, the Milltop was converted into a bar in the 1950s. It is a popular spot for tourists to take photos of themselves. Photo taken Oct.12, 2021. (Jann Falkenstern/Epoch Times)

I think the leadership of our governor had a lot to do with the fact that Florida is doing well, he said. He gets it.

Barbara Golden, communications manager for St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra and the Beaches Visitors and Convention Bureau, said she was surprised at how the restaurants reacted to the pandemic.

Most of our restaurants have outdoor seating and those that didnt  well they created it, Golden said. She pointed to outdoor seating at The Floridian Restaurant that had converted an empty parking lot into outdoor dining. These businesses not only opened during a very trying time in our lives with the pandemic, but they are thriving. Its just amazing.

A City Investing in Itself

A village population of 14,500 cannot support school and road projects, Richard Goldman president and CEO of the bureau, told The Epoch Times.

It is the tourist dollars that help fund the county, Goldman said. A town of this size with little industry cannot promote our good schools.

Goldman said that the city has exceeded pre-pandemic revenue from 2019.

This is not even our biggest month, he said of the August figures. Normally, we depend on snowbird season to make our profits, but we are seeing that we are exceeding anything we did in 2019.

Communication was the key to saving their revenue during and after the shutdown, Goldman explained. That and a little help from St. Johns County. Goldman also convinced the city to make an investment in tourism. The city gave Goldman and his staff $2 million in grants to achieve his goal.

We realized that people needed to feel safe over this pandemic, but that needed to be communicated, he said.

Goldman and his staff worked to get the word out that St. Augustine was open for business, but above all that it was a safe place to be.

We reached out to people who had visited us in the past, he said. We communicated effectively that way and explained that we had no major COVID outbreaks and that most of our dining venues were outdoors.

Goldman said the city has put COVID behind them and is moving ahead, but admits they watch the infection rates and are erring on the side of caution and safety.

Good Wages Keeping Staff Loyal

Recently, thanks to a 2016 constitutional amendment the voters of Florida approved, the minimum wage increased to $10 per hour a month ago, but Goldman said that didnt seem to be an issue with the hospitality industry in St Augustine.

Mom and pop staffers are loyal, Goldman said. They are paid well compared to larger entities where they are not, but they are catching on and paying people more, but it still has a way to go.

Goldman said that when things began to open up again, mom and pop store employees came back and did not leave the area as most did who worked for corporate entities.

They are loyal because they are paid well, he said. The minimum wage increase has not affected them (businesses) because they already exceed what the minimum wage is.

Marlane and Jack King enjoy breakfast outside with their fur-baby Cocoa at the St. George Inn, Oct. 15, 2021. (Jann Falkenstern/Epoch Times)

Pet Friendly

Marlane and Jack King are Navy contractors who live in Cocoa Beach and come to St. Augustine often to unplug from their busy lives. They go nowhere, however, without their 3-year-old dog named Cocoa.

Along with their luggage, they bring everything Cocoa needs including her stroller.

After pandemic-related shutdowns, pet owners are returning to the workforce leaving their pets alone when the pet has been accustomed to having the owner home all day. The pers go through separation anxiety, or an intense dislike of being alone.

Lucky for the Kings then that St. Augustine embraces pets and their owners, as there are more than 79 venues that are pet friendly, including hotels, restaurants, carriage rides, and boat tours.

Pet water bowls line the sidewalks of businesses. Most of the restaurants have outside seating where pets can sit with their owners while dining.

Each year, Marianne and Chet Pielow travel from Los Angeles to visit Mariannes sister in Melbourne, Florida, but they never miss an opportunity to visit St. Augustine.

We visit every year and absolutely love it here, Marianne Pielow said.
In this image from video, Loudoun County Superintendent Scott Ziegler is seen during a school board meeting in Ashburg, Va., on June 22, 2021. (The Epoch Times via LCPS)

Students Protest in Loudoun County Against Handling of Sexual Assaults

Hundreds of students in one of Virginias most populous counties walked out of school on Tuesday to protest against the handling of sexual assaults that took place in two different schools in the county.

Video footage and photographs showed students outside multiple schools, including Stone Bridge High School and Broad Run High Schoolthe facilities where confirmed and alleged assaults took place.

The protests took place just a day after a male 15-year-old student was convicted of raping a female minor at Stone Bridge in May. The same male is accused of sexually assaulting another girl at Broad Run in October.

Loudoun County protects rapists, students at Broad Run shouted.

Why didnt anybody tell us? one said.

A flyer circulated before the walkouts encouraged people to leave the buildings for 10 minutes to show solidarity to victims of sexual violence and demand safety in our schools.

Loudoun County Public Schools told media outlets that officials allowed the demonstrations. A spokesman claimed the protest was not a student-generated one but was organized by parents.

The district has largely deflected criticism regarding the sexual assaults, even after acknowledging it did not follow state law on reporting earlier assaults.

Some in the district have called on Superintendent Scott Ziegler to resign.

Ziegler, reading a prepared statement to reporters in mid-October, said he was wrong when he alleged during a June school board meeting that no assaults had taken place in bathrooms at schools in the district.

The claim happened during discussion on a proposed policy that later passed, which allows students who say theyre a sex different than their birth sex to use various bathrooms.

Scott Smith, the father of the girl raped in May, has said the male who carried out the crime took advantage of the permissive environment to enter the girls bathroom.

The boy was wearing a skirt, a judge heard on Monday.

Ziegler has so far refused to step down, though one of the school board members is leaving her seat next month.
Protesters gather during what the information ministry calls a military coup in Khartoum, Sudan, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Mohamed Nureldin Abdallah/Reuters)

Sudans Burhan Says Army Ousted Government to Avoid Civil War

KHARTOUMSudans top general Abdel Fattah al-Burhan defended the armys seizure of power on Tuesday, saying he had ousted the government of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok to avoid civil war.

Speaking at his first news conference since he announced the takeover on Monday, Burhan accused politicians of incitement against the armed forces. He said Hamdok was confined in his own home and had not been harmed.

Soldiers arrested the prime minister and other members of his cabinet on Monday, hours before Burhan appeared on TV to announce the dissolution of the Sovereign Council, a body set up to share power between the military and civilians.

Mondays military takeover brought a halt to Sudans transition to democracy two years after a popular uprising toppled long-serving autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

Protesters block a road during what the information ministry calls a military coup in Khartoum, Sudan, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Mohamed Nureldin Abdallah/Reuters)

An official at the health ministry said seven people were killed in clashes between protesters and the security forces on Monday. On Tuesday, life was halted in Khartoum and its twin city Omdurman across the Nile, with shops shut and plumes of smoke rising from where protesters were burning tires.

Burhan said the militarys action did not amount to a coup, as the army was trying to rectify the path of the political transition.

Western countries have denounced the coup, called for the detained cabinet ministers to be freed, and said they will cut off aid if the military does not restore power-sharing with civilians.

By Khalid Abdelaziz
The minister of national development Kung Ming-hsin addresses media during a press conference in Prague, Czech Republic, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Petr David Josek/AP Photo)

Taiwanese Delegation in Prague to Boost Ties; China Protests

PRAGUETaiwanese government ministers were visiting the Czech capital on Monday accompanied by dozens of business and research representatives to boost trade and investment, a move that has angered China.

Minister of National Development Kung Ming-hsin is leading a delegation of 66 officials representing business and research groups and organizations, including biotechnology, green energy, information technology, machinery, and tourism.

Taiwanese Foreign Minister Joseph Wu will visit later in the week.

The Chinese regime has protested, threatening unspecified retaliatory steps.

Taiwan relies on such exchanges to counter the Chinese regimes efforts to isolate the self-governing island that Beijing claims as its own territory, to be annexed by military force if it deems necessary. Taiwan is a de facto independent country, with its own military, democratically-elected government, and constitution.

The Czech Republic, like most countries, has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but maintains robust informal contacts. Taiwans high-tech companies are also significant investors in the Czech Republic.

The ties between Prague and Taipei were boosted by last years trip to Taiwan by the speaker of the Czech parliaments upper house, the Senate, Milos Vystrcil. He was accompanied by more than 80 representatives from government, business, and academia, drawing strong criticism from the Chinese regime.

Vystrcil and other senior officials in the Senate, together with representatives of government business and tourist agencies and business groups, are scheduled to meet the members of the Taiwanese delegation.

During the pandemic, Taiwan sent the Czech Republic equipment to make quality face masks while the Czechs donated coronavirus vaccines to Taiwan.

The delegation is also visiting two other European Union countries, Slovakia and Lithuania.

Epoch Times staff contributed to this report.
Texas State Troopers arrest two U.S. citizens who were transporting three illegal aliens to San Antonio, in Kinney County, Texas, on Oct. 20, 2021. (Charlotte Cuthbertson/The Epoch Times)

Texas Border Region Pushes State to Do More Against Illegal Immigration

UVALDE, TexasA trio of small border locales have banded together in a bid to compel the state of Texas to provide the resources they need to secure their citizens against an unprecedented flow of illegal alien traffic.

Officials from Uvalde County, the city of Uvalde, and Kinney County formed a subregional planning commission on Aug. 2 under a unique Texas statute that gives small entities the teeth to force state agencies to the table to solve problems.

Tens of thousands of illegal immigrants pass through the areavia car or train, or on footto get from the border cities of Del Rio and Eagle Pass to San Antonio. The counties have declared themselves in a perpetual state of disaster since April.

Two officials from the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) attended the commissions first meeting on Oct. 21. Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, tasked TDEM with providing resources to beleaguered border counties, after issuing a state disaster declaration on May 31.

The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has dedicated more state troopers to the area, but the 391 commission members complained to the two TDEM officials about nonaction and communication issues that have left them feeling ignored and frustrated.

Uvalde County Commissioner John Yeackle said one of his countys biggest problems is finding jail space for illegal aliens and smugglers.

Were getting verbal commitmentsas I understand from the sheriffs officefor DPS to move them to Del Rio, but thats not happening in reality, Yeackle said. The facility in Del Rio is a temporary state-run detention center thats holding illegal alien inmates arrested for trespass and other crimes, but its 70 miles from Uvalde.

Kinney County Sheriff Brad Coe said several formal requests hes made to TDEM and DPS have gone unanswered or unresolved, including radio communications between his deputies and state troopers while on duty.

Right now, Kinney County seems to be at the epicenter of all this, he said. Between Val Verde and Kinney counties, he said, 12 human smuggling loads had been intercepted in the previous 24 hours.

One case involved a 21-year-old U.S. citizen out of Brownsville, Texas, who was transporting three Guatemalans and one Mexican to San Antonio. While deputies were arresting him and the illegal alien passengers, another vehicle drove past that state troopers subsequently stopped. The driver and passengerU.S. citizens out of Fort Worth, Texaswere transporting three Guatemalans to San Antonio from the border.

To get to San Antonio, you have to go through Kinney County, Coe said. While he said DPS has helped arrest 1,100 illegal aliens in Kinney County on trespass and other misdemeanor charges, he estimates that at least another 3,000 have slipped past.

Kinney County also has a jail space problem.

Ive got on my desk right now about 100 to 150 [arrest] warrants that I cant serve because I dont have a place to put these people. Ive got a 14-bed facility, Coe said.

Uvalde Mayor Don McLaughlin said local schools went into lockdown 48 times in the spring because of high-speed vehicle pursuits and bailouts of illegal aliens. He said some citizens wont let their children play in their yard unless an armed adult is supervising.

Were not getting any help. Were not geared up for this. Theyre doing a great job, but we need help, he said, referring to DPS and local law enforcement.

Were still averaging three to four bailouts every day. And then they spend most of their time trying to round these people up.

McLaughlin said law enforcement is finding firearms in smuggling vehicles, and some of the illegal aliens are murderers, pedophiles, and sex offenders.

The county reached out to TDEM over the summer to get extra capacity to store bodies after several illegal aliens died.

We had two that jumped off the train that got killed. We found one in a farm field. We got another one that got run over by a combine, he said.

Uvalde has the capacity to hold seven bodies, and McLaughlin said sometimes it takes up to six months before someone claims the body of an illegal immigrant.

TDEM Assistant Chief Tony Pena apologized during the commission meeting for the agencys failure to respond to the request at the time. He said he would seek answers to all the complaints presented and promised better communication.

This has to be likened to building an aircraft while its in the air, he said.

We didnt create this problem as the state. It was created elsewhere and by somebody else, and the answer lies with them, Pena said, referring to the Biden administration.

All I can say is, the state of Texas is using the resources that they have available at the moment to at least slow down this invasion.

The meeting took place as tens of thousands of illegal immigrants were traveling from southern Mexico on their way to the U.S. border.

Theres a human tsunami on its way, Kinney County Judge Tully Shahan said. We do have a grave concern for Texas and our country.

Four days after the meeting, McLaughlin told The Epoch Times that he had since talked to TDEM Chief Nim Kidd three times and was positive that things were moving in the right direction. He is submitting a new request for vehicles, extra personnel, and equipment. A temporary detention center is next on the list.

Meanwhile, the White House on Oct. 24 rejected Abbotts appeal to the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reimburse the state for millions of dollars it has spent on the border crisis.
Social distancing is supposedly critical to reduce COVID-19 infections, but the actual science on how the virus is spread suggests otherwise. (Halfpoint/Shutterstock)

The 6-Foot Myth

The complex and contradictory science of social distancing

I travel a lot, for business as well as pleasure. Its amazing how each area of the United States handles the pandemic (actually, now an endemic) so differently.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a zoo even in the best of times, but it is going through a major renovation for the 2028 Summer Olympics. Crowded is an understatement.

My wife and I were in line for an elevator to take us up to one of the Delta lounges. A couple (younger than us) were a few people in front. When the elevator arrived, they went into the empty elevator, and the husband (I am assuming) whips around, holds his hand up, and says NO more. Another couple in front of us politely notes that there is plenty of room for a few more. The husband then blurts out, She has cancer, you [expletive]!

I suppose cancer allows some forgiveness for someone being nasty and angry, but Im not so sure. He kept everyone else from boarding the elevator, and the door closed. When we finally did get to the lounge, we noticed this couple sitting in the very crowded lounge. This got me wondering where this six-foot social distancing comes from?

Dr. Carl Flugge, a German scientist, proposed the idea that people who are well should keep their distance from people who are sick. This was back in the 1840s.

In the 1940s, some scientists were able to film, frame by frame, a person sneezing and yelling and found that we humans spray spittle about three to six feet. This is now dogma, and dogma is hard to break.

A recent study by MIT published in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America came to a startling result: When indoors, the risk for COVID contagion is nearly the same at six feet or 60 feet because the aerosolized particles mix throughout the air.

I think I may have to find a larger elevator!

The Journal of Infectious Diseases published a study done mainly by researchers in Australia who made an interesting finding when researching aerosol spray of COVID-19. They found that of ten studies on horizontal droplet distance, eight showed droplets travel more than 2 meters (6 ft), in some cases more than 8 meters (26 ft).

We found that the evidence base for current guidelines is sparse, and the available data do not support the 1  2 m (3  6 ft) rule of spatial separation.

I have been asked on several occasions not to enter an elevator in the hospital by someone already in the elevator because of an overwhelming fear of catching COVID.

Next time, Ill hand out a copy of that article.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 1 meter (roughly 3 feet) of social distancing. This is followed in England, France, and China; Australia, Italy, and Germany use 1.5 meters. The WHO based its findings on a study published in the Lancet in June 2020.

Transmission of viruses was lower with physical distancing of 1 m or more, compared with a distance of less than 1 m, it read.

A few months ago, I had a patient complain that our waiting room wasnt socially distanced enough for her. She also complained that we didnt have an elevator monitor to limit it to one person per ride (I admit, its a small elevator). I politely asked her how she would suggest we knock out the walls to accommodate her concerns, as well as where we should build that new elevator? I thought I was sarcastic, but she thought I was serious and sent me a two-page response.

Protection is good, but there are extremes.

Actual physical distancing may make sense for those who are truly vulnerable. I personally wouldnt take an elderly person with chronic health issues such as emphysema, leukemia, and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) to a crowded arena. I wouldnt have taken them before COVID either.

The problem with social distancing rules is it varies depending on where you live and if there is another agenda that the political powers feel outweighs the need for social distancing. Life is full of risks, and each day, we weigh those risks and live our lives.

There are 36,000 deaths each year from motor vehicle accidents, yet we drive almost every day. We make decisions based on our needs and desires.

We were recently in Nashville, Tennessee, and enjoyed an amazing time. Great city, great food, music, and good friends. People respected one another, and not a mask was in sight on these crowded streets. Nashville, like Los Angeles, has COVID, yet those cities handle the situation very differently.

One of the bottom lines is that we dont know how long social distancing measures and lockdowns can be maintained without major consequences to the economy, society, and mental health. Dr. John Ioannidis, a Stanford professor and an author of numerous studies on evidence-based medicine and statistics, wrote in STAT on March 17, 2020.

(Ioannidis achieved wide fame for his 2005 paper published in PLOS, Why Most Published Research Findings Are False.)

Last week, I flew on an airline and the flight attendant was adamant, you must wear your mask at all times, and can only take it off while actively eating and must replace the mask in between bites. The person next to me leaned over and said maybe we should all sit six feet apart while we eat!

Sadly, real life has nothing to do with the rules of social distancing.
A work-over rig performs maintenance on an oil well in the Permian Basin oil production area near Wink, Texas on Aug. 22, 2018. (Nick Oxford/Reuters)

Third-Quarter Profits to Sparkle for Shale Producers Without Hedges

With oil and gas prices at multi-year highs, U.S. shale producers are poised to deliver the strongest earnings since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, so long as they didnt lock in sales tied to much lower prices.

Sky-high oil and gas prices will fill energy companies bottom line, rewarding investors who hung on through the pandemic. U.S. crude averaged roughly $71 a barrel, almost 80 percent higher than year-ago levels, and natural gas sold for over $5 per million British Thermal Units (mmBTU), a price not seen since 2014.

The biggest oil and gas producers kick off results this week, with reports from EQT Corp. and Hess Corp. Continental Resources, Pioneer Natural Resources, and EOG Resources will report the week after.

Pioneers earnings per share could hit $3.94, up from 17 cents last year, and Continental earnings are estimated at $1.20, versus a loss of 16 cents a share the same period last year, according to Refinitiv IBES.

While commodity prices are an earnings elixir, some companies face charges to earnings from wrong-way bets due to hedges, or selling future output at prices below the market average.

EQT Corp., which hedged heavily, is anticipated to report a 5 cents per share loss, from a 15 cents per share loss in the third quarter of 2020. Pioneer Natural Resources on Monday warned it would report hedging losses of $501 million for the quarter, and over $2 billion in losses so far this year.

The only thing that is going to be preventing a blowout quarter is the hedging situation, said Chris Duncan, an equity research analyst at Brandes Investment Partners, adding that some 50 percent of production volumes were hedged for the quarter.

Energy tech firm Enverus anticipates some $6 billion in aggregate pre-tax losses from third quarter commodity hedges among the 64 North American oil and gas producers it tracks. Those firms lost some $10.5 billion from derivatives in the first half of the year, according to Enverus data.

Enverus anticipates oil and gas producers to report free cash flow of $11.9 billion for the quarter, with loss-making hedge books reducing that value by 32 percent.

Shale producer EOG Resources recently warned it would report a loss of $494 million on its hedges. EQT Corp. earlier this year said it hedged 80 percent of this years output at below $3 per million British thermal units, well below market prices. Apache parent APA Corp said it anticipated $37 million in losses.

Overly hedging as some of these producers have done impairs their ability to be competitive in a rising price environment, said Josh Young, chief investment officer at energy investor Bison Interests.

Continental Resources, which limits its hedging, last quarter increased its dividend and resumed a $1 billion share repurchase program.

A spokesperson declined to comment.

While shareholders may lament missing out higher prices, hedges can help keep companies on secure financial footing, locking in prices to pay for drilling expenses.

Credit investors we have spoken with lately are concerned that issuers may unwind their hedges, said John Kempf of credit firm Fitch Ratings. Creditors do not want to assume price risk.

By Liz Hampton
Thousands of Laguna Beach Residents Lose Power Twice in One Weekend

Thousands of Laguna Beach residents lost power twice over the weekend due to failed equipment, impacting over 4,000 Southern California Edison (SCE) customers in the city.

Corey Brindley, 34, a resident of Laguna Beach, said losing power two days in a row was a bit of an awakening for him and his family to be prepared for future emergencies.

With two small kids, we got creative with arts and crafts and puppet shows, Brindley told The Epoch Times. But that shouldnt downplay how inconvenient it is to lose power for an extended period of time for two days, especially when there werent any weather events to place the blame on.

Taelor Bakewell, a spokesperson for SCE, said power outages occur due to weather, foreign objects, and wildlife, especially within the greater Orange County area.

Its a diverse territory, Bakewell told The Epoch Times on Oct. 25.

David Song, another spokesperson for SCE, said when a power outage happens, customers closest to the equipment failure experience a longer wait time until their power is fully restored.

Like the scene of a car accident on a busy highway, the streets surrounding the incident are rerouted faster than the immediate cross streets, he said.

The same goes for power outages.

Its a story of reliability, Song told The Epoch Times. Our system is more resilient now than ever before.

The recent power disruptions marked the third outage within a month in the city.

The first outage initially knocked out power for 4,256 customers on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. until crews restored power three hours later for all but 65 customers. By 8:30 p.m., all customers were re-energized.

Twenty-four hours later, a second outage was reported due to equipment failure at 8:47 p.m., affecting 3,972 customers until 7:13 a.m.

SCE encourages customers to prepare themselves with flashlights, batteries, and any personal equipment residents may need in an outage.
Bryant-Denny Stadium on the campus of the University of Alabama on Sept. 22, 2018. (Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

To Retain Federal Funding, University of Alabama and Auburn University Say Employees Must Get Vaccinated

The University of Alabama (UA) and Auburn University (AU) announced on Friday that to keep federal funding, the colleges must comply with President Joe Bidens Sept. 9 executive order on vaccine mandates for all employees.

Employees must be vaccinated by Dec. 8 or be discharged.

Failure to comply will place The University of Alabama in jeopardy of losing hundreds of millions of dollars that we receive through federal contracts and awards, as well as thousands of jobs funded, in part, by those dollars, UA said in a press release to faculty, staff, and student employees.

As part of his Path Out of the Pandemic: COVID-19 Action Plan, Biden enacted Executive Order 14042 that directed the Safer Federal Workforce Task Force to issue guidance mandating vaccines for federal contractors and subcontractors, which includes public universities.

As a federal contractor, The University of Alabama, like most higher education institutions, must comply with the executive order and accompanying guidance, UA said, with no flexibility in its application or enforcement.

UA said medical and religious exemptions will be considered, and that it will continue to closely examine and monitor these federal mandates.

We recognize that this is an important topic that will generate many strong feelings, UA said.

As a public research institution that receives federal funding, AU is also classified as a federal contractor that must comply or lose funding.

Currently, Auburn maintains approximately $200 million in federal contracts that are expected to be impacted by this order, including contracts with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), among others, AU said in a press release. Federal contracts are also a major revenue source for communities across Alabamathis is one-way tax dollars paid to the federal government come back to the state to benefit all Alabamians.

In the fiscal year 2020, Alabama contractors were awarded $12 billion for 98,147 federal contracts and subcontracts, AU said.

Auburn is compelled to comply with the executive order and the guidance to the extent that those have been incorporated into our federal contracts, AU said. Those contracts include the requirement that covered employees be vaccinated for COVID-19.
Truckers Group Warns: Bidens Vaccine Mandate Could Cripple Supply Chain

An organization representing trucking companies warned that proposed federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates may wreak significant damage on the U.S. supply chain amid a dearth of truckers and backlogs at the ports.

The American Trucking Associations (ATA) sent a letter to the Biden administration this week that warned such a mandate would cause problems within the industry. President Joe Biden on Sept. 9 announced that he would require businesses with 100 or more workers to have their employees get vaccinated or submit to weekly testing, while also saying that federal employees and federal contracting firms are required to get the shot.

While much of the country was sequestered in their homes, the trucking industry served its essential function and did so successfully with safety standards developed by public health experts, ATA President Chris Spear wrote in the letter.

While Spear said that he supports the goals to increase vaccinations across the United States, he suggested that federal mandates arent the way forward. Placing vaccination mandates on employers, which in turn force employees to be vaccinated, will create a workforce crisis for our industry and the communities, families, and businesses we serve, he commented.

More than a month after Bidens announcement, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration submitted its emergency temporary standard to the Office of Management and Budget for review.

Later in his letter, Spear warned that if OSHA and the White House COVID-19 response team continue on the paths they are on, the nations motor carrierswho supply 80 percent of the country and move 70 percent of all U.S. freight tonnagecould lose up to 37 percent of drivers to firings, attrition to smaller trucking firms, or retirements.

The U.S. is already facing unprecedented supply chain disruptions and delays due to many factors, including significant labor shortages, production shutdowns, a shortage of raw materials, and pent-up consumer demand, the letter continued, citing data showing that the vaccine mandate may further cripple the supply chain throughout the country by forcing 13 percent of truck drivers to leave the industry entirely.

His warning comes as other business groups, including one that represents air cargo carriers like FedEx and UPS, asked Biden to rescind the rule ahead of the Christmas shopping season, where demand is almost certain to surge.

Contractors, including FedEx and UPS, have until Dec. 8 to mandate their employees to get the shot. Under the rule, those firms cannot have their employees opt out of the vaccine mandate otherwise they could potentially lose their agreements with the federal government.

Several groups representing retail workers and manufacturers, meanwhile, have also sent letters to the White House, asking for delays.

Neither OSHA nor the White House has provided a firm timeline on when the emergency rule on private businesses would go into effect. OSHA and the Office of Management and Budget have not responded to several requests from The Epoch Times.
Gov. Gen. Mary May Simon sits with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and members of the newly announced cabinet following a swearing in ceremony at Rideau Hall, Tuesday, October 26, 2021 in Ottawa. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Trudeau Overhauls Cabinet in Major Shuffle

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced his new cabinet on Oct. 26, adding nine new faces, dropping three, and making major reshuffles in key positions including the defence department.

Among the major shifts, Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan, who came under fire for the handling of sexual misconduct allegations against senior military officials, was moved to head of international development. Anita Anand will take over at National Defence, after leading the procurement of the COVID-19 vaccines.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, right, looks on Anita Anand, minister of national defence, is sworn in at a cabinet swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Oct. 26, 2021. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

The three ministers who have been dropped from Trudeaus cabinet include: Foreign Affairs Minister Marc Garneau, Minister of Diversity and Inclusion Bardish Chagger, and Jim Carr, who served as the special representative for the prairies.

Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault, a prominent advocate in environmental issues in Quebec before entering politics in 2019, is taking over as environment minister, replacing Jonathan Wilkinson, who is moved to head of natural resources.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, and Gov. Gen. Mary May Simon, right, pose with Steven Guilbeault, minister of environment and climate change, at a cabinet swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Oct. 26, 2021. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Other senior positions also saw a reshuffle:

Minister of Health: Jean-Yves Duclos, who was previously president of the Treasury Board. He replaces Patty Hajdu, who is now minister of indigenous services.

Minister of Public Safety: Marco Mendicino, who was previously the immigration minister. He replaces Bill Blair, who is now minister of emergency preparedness.

Minister of Public Services and Procurement: Filomena Tassi, who was the minister of labour. The post was previously held by Anita Anand, who now heads National Defence.

Minister of Canadian Heritage: Pablo Rodriguez, who was the leader of the government in the House of Commons. He replaces Steven Guilbeault, who is now the minister of environment and climate change.

Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure, and Communities: Dominic LeBlanc will take over this new portfolio. He was formerly the minister of intergovernmental affairs.

Minister of Indigenous Services: Patty Hajdu, who was the previous minister of health. Hadju is also now the minister responsible for the federal economic development agency for northern Ontario. Marc Miller was previously the minister of indigenous services and now serves as the minister of crown-indigenous relations.

President of the Treasury Board: Mona Fortier, who was the minister of middle class prosperity and associate minister of finance. Jean-Yves Duclos, who previously held this position, is now the minister of health.

Minister of Labour: Seamus ORegan, who previously served as minister of natural resources. This post was previously held by Filomena Tassi, who is now the procurement minister.

Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion: Ahmed Hussen, who was previously the minister of social development. The post was formerly held by Bardish Chagger, who has been dropped from the cabinet.

Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance: Randy Boissonnault, who was elected to represent the riding of Edmonton Centre, and is one of two Liberals who won seats in Alberta in the 2021 federal election.

Minister of Mental Health and Addictions: Carolyn Bennett, who was previously the minister of crown-indigenous relations, will also serve as associate minister of health. Bennett is the first to hold this new portfolio.

Minister of International Development: Harjit Sajjan, who was the minister of national defence, will also serve as minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada. Karina Gould was the previous international development minister and has now become the minister of families, children, and social development.

Minister of Families, Children and Social Development: Karina Gould

Minister of Official Languages: Ginette Petitpas Taylor, who previously served as parliamentary secretary to the minister of finance, will also serve as minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada opportunities agency. Melanie Joly previously held the portfolio of minister of economic development and official languages, and has now become the minister of foreign affairs.

President of the Queens Privy Council and Minister of Emergency Preparedness: Bill Blair, who was the previous minister of public safety and emergency preparedness.

Minister of Fisheries, Oceans, and the Canadian Coast Guard: Joyce Murray, who was the minister of digital government. The post was previously held by Bernadette Jordan, who was defeated in the 2021 federal election.

Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations: Marc Miller, who was previously the minister of indigenous services. The post was previously held by Carolyn Bennett, who has now taken up the post of minister of mental health and addictions and associate minister of health.

Minister of Northern Affairs, Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency: Dan Vandal, who previously held the portfolio of Minister of Northern Affairs.

Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth: Marci Ien

Government House Leader: Mark Holland

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, right, congratulates Mark Holland, government House leader, at a cabinet swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Oct. 26, 2021. (The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld)

Chrystia Freeland retains her dual role as deputy prime minister and finance minister, as Trudeau previously announced in late September.

Others who retained their current positions include:

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada: David Lametti

Minister of National Revenue: Diane Lebouthillier

Minister of Transport: Omar Alghabra

Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence: Lawrence MacAulay

Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food: Marie-Claude Bibeau

Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion: Carla Qualtrough

Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry: Francois-Philippe Champagne

Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business and Economic Development: Mary Ng

The restructuring of the cabinet is considered a reflection of the Trudeau governments policy priorities, including housing affordability, environment, public health, economic recovery, and indigenous affairs.

With files from The Canadian Press
Owen Paterson with reporters after a parliamentary standards watchdog found said he had broken rules on lobbying, on Oct. 26, 2021. (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

UK Ex-Cabinet Minister Faces 30-Day Parliament Ban for Breach of Lobbying Rules

A former British Cabinet minister is facing a 30-day suspension from Parliament after a watchdog found he had breached rules on lobbying.

Conservative MP Owen Paterson said that the investigation into him was biased, accusing the parliamentary commissioner of making up her mind before speaking to him.

The investigation found Paterson repeatedly lobbied ministers and officials on behalf of two companies for which he was acting as a paid consultant.

This was described as an egregious breach of the rules on paid advocacy.

The Commons Standards Committee, which carried out the investigation, recommended that MPs vote to suspend Paterson for 30 sitting days.

Paterson said in a statement that the process had been unfair, and that 17 witnesses who came forward to support him were ignored.

Paterson said that the investigation had played a major role in his wifes decision to take her own life last year.

He told the committee that he had been trying to raise concerns about the contamination of milk and ham with banned carcinogenic substances. However, they found his actions to be in breach of the ban on paid advocacy.

In her report, Parliamentary Commissioner Kathryn Stone found that between November 2016 and November 2017 Paterson made three approaches to the Food Standards Agency (FSA) relating to Randoxa clinical diagnostics companyand antibiotics in milk.

He was also found to have made four approaches to ministers at the Department for International Development relating to the company and blood testing technology between October 2016 and January 2017.

And Paterson was found to have made seven approaches to the FSA between November 2017 and July 2018 relating to Lynns Country Foods.

The commissioner also found that he failed to declare his interest as a paid consultant to Lynns Country Foods in four emails to FSA officials. Additionally he used his parliamentary office for business meetings with his clients on 16 occasions between October 2016 and February 2020.

He also sent two letters relating to his business interests on House of Commons headed notepaperthe only breach of the rules that he accepted.

Paterson no doubt believed he had not broken the rules, said a statement from the committee.

Mr Paterson is clearly convinced in his own mind that there could be no conflict between his private interest and the public interest in his actions in this case, said the statement. But it is this same conviction that meant that Mr Paterson failed to establish the proper boundaries between his private commercial work and his parliamentary activities.

The committee recommended that a motion to suspend Paterson should be tabled for MPs to debate and vote on within five sitting days.

Paterson said the investigation had left his wife feeling beleaguered, fearing that his reputation would be destroyed and that he would be forced to resign as MP for North Shropshire.

We will never know definitively what drove her to suicide, but the manner in which this investigation was conducted undoubtedly played a major role, he said.

Paterson called on MPs to waive parliamentary privilege so he can challenge it in the courts.

If Paterson is suspended, it could lead to a by-election, if over 10 percent of his constituents demand one via a petition.

PA contributed to this report.
The scene at Regency Court in Brentwood, Essex, where two teenage boys died in the early hours of Oct. 24, 2021. (Aaron Chown/PA)

UK Police Release Details of Eight Men Held Over Double Teen Murder

Police have released the details of eight men being questioned on suspicion of murder after two teenage boys died in the London commuter town of Brentwood.

Officers were called to Regency Court in Brentwood at about 1.30am on Sunday and found three people had been injured, including two teenagers who later died from their injuries.

The third person was treated for non-life threatening injuries.

The eight men are aged between 19 and 49, Essex Police said on Monday.

All are from Essex, with five from the town of Grays, two from South Ockendon and one from Brentwood.

No cause of death has been given and forensic post-mortem examinations will be carried out.

Essex Police, whose investigation into the deaths is ongoing, said they would await the results of the examinations before releasing the boys identities.

Senior investigating officer detective chief inspector Stuart Truss said: At the moment, we are exploring numerous lines of enquiry which include assessing hours of CCTV which show the area in question.

We also have specially-trained family liaison officers in place who are continuing to support the boys families.

I am also echoing an appeal for anyone who was in the Crown Street area of Brentwood between 10pm on Saturday and 5am on Sunday morning to come forward and speak to us if they have not already done so.

A neighbour described hearing shouts and someone yelling out in pain from the scene of the suspected murder.

Mark MacIntosh told the PA news agency he had only just arrived home before he heard shouting and screaming coming from the nearby residence.

I came in five minutes before I heard the shouts and screams, he said.

I said should I go down as I usually do if I think theres something serious but I couldnt hear.

He said he paced around his flat wondering what he should do.

Now, as I reflect I realise that what I heard was somebody yelling out in pain who may have lost his life shortly thereafter.

On Sunday afternoon a group of people carrying flowers arrived at the scene.

They were allowed through the police cordon to leave the flowers outside.

One teenage girl burst into tears as they approached the scene.

Another mourner refused to speak to the press, saying: I dont know anything.

A visible policing presence will continue in Brentwood over the coming days to reassure the community, Essex Police said.

Anyone with any information has been asked to contact the force on 101 and cite incident 125 of October 24.
Lisa Nandy poses for a photograph at Cardiff City Hall, in Cardiff, Wales, on Feb. 2, 2020. (Matthew Horwood/Getty Images)

UK Urged to Veto Chinese Bid to Join Pacific Trade Pact

Britains main opposition Labour party has called on the government to veto Chinas bid to join a trans-Pacific trade agreement once the UK itself is admitted to the pact.

The UK applied on Feb. 1 to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), a landmark 11-country trade deal that includes Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan, Mexico, Singapore, Vietnam, Brunei, Chile, Malaysia, and Peru.

China submitted an application for CPTPP membership on Sept. 16. Four days later, on Sept. 20, Taiwan also formally applied to join the pact.

Talking at a session on foreign policy in the House of Commons on Tuesday, Labours shadow foreign secretary Lisa Nandy said that Chinas application leaves open the prospect that the UK might be entering into preferential trade arrangements with countries who commit genocide.

British lawmakers had made clear our view that whats happening in Xinjiang constitutes genocide, she said, referring to the Chinese regimes mass internment of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities in northwest China.

The UK Parliament on April 22 unanimously passed a non-binding motion declaring that Uyghur Muslims and other ethnic and religious minorities were suffering crimes against humanity and genocide, and called on the UK government to use international law to bring it to an end.

Nandy asked Foreign Secretary Liz Truss if she could guarantee that she will veto Chinas membership if the application is successful.

In response, Truss said she had raised the terrible atrocities that are taking place in Xinjiang with the Chinese foreign minister, as well as UK concerns over Hong Kong.

She told the Commons: It is important that we trade with China, but we need to make sure its reliable trade, that it avoids strategic dependency and that it doesnt involve the violation of intellectual property rights or forced technology transfer and I urge China to respect the rules of the WTO.

Truss said the UK does not have the right to make decisions as it is not yet a member. But she said she is very clear that any country that enters the CPTPP needs to follow its high rules and standards including high environmental standards and labour standards.

Prospective members (including the UK and Thailand) can gain entry only with unanimous support from all pact members.

But both Australia and Japan have expressed reluctance at the possibility of China joining the group due to its use of economic coercion against other nations.

Australian Trade Minister Dan Tehan said last month China could not join the CPTPP until members were convinced of a track record of compliance with existing trade and WTO agreements.

Japanese Economic Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura said it is necessary to determine whether China is ready to meet the pacts extremely high standards.

Daniel Y. Teng and PA contributed to this report.
Protesters hold up signs as they march across Victoria Bridge during a rally against a mandatory Covid-19 vaccine in Brisbane, Australia, on Oct. 1, 2021. (Dan Peled/Getty Images)

Unjustified Mandatory Vaccinations: Australians Freer Under Colonial Rule

Commentary

The Western Australian (WA) government under Premier Mark McGowan is imposing mandatory vaccinations on about 75 percent of the states workforce, enforceable with massive fines of up to $100,000 for employers and $20,000 for workers.

This, in a democracy, is to be effected by mere directions under the Public Health Act, most of which are yet to be made.

They will not be submitted to the executive council where the governor would normally need to be assured that he has the legal power to make them. Nor will there be any need for the orders to be tabled in Parliament, with either house being able to disallow them.

Yet such safeguards were once required across Australia, even in colonial times.

Instead, practices typical of a dictatorship have become normal.

At least the supporting advice from the WAs Chief Medical Officer Dr. Andrew Robertson has been published. This has been rare in most jurisdictions where health advice, including that supplied to the National Cabinet, has been treated as if it were a state secret.

In his advice, Robinson does concede the risk of vaccination, but says these outweighed the benefits.

Unfortunately, he does not explain this, nor does he discuss the fact that the vaccinated can both be infected and infect others.

In the quest for protecting the vulnerable, the better protection would surely be through testing which is becoming cheaper and more accessible.

Testing could also show those who have been infected and have recovered. According to some experts, they could have a greater immunity than those vaccinated.

West Australian Premier Mark McGowan addresses the media at the Covid-19 Vaccination Clinic at Claremont Showground in Perth, Australia, on May 3, 2021. (Paul Kane/Getty Images)

We do not know enough about the Wuhan virus to be too certain about imposing such a strong policy for vaccination, particularly when this may prove to be as unjustified as many of the lockdown measures have shown to be.

It is established that some people, including the young, have experienced potentially serious heart conditions, myocarditis, and pericarditis, after being receiving the vaccination.

With talk of boosters, the requirement for vaccine passports could put Australians under life-long political control, with the warnings of some experts against the effects of excessive vaccination being ignored.

Many Australians are even asking why they should not continue to enjoy their long-believed right, supported by very clear words from Prime Minister Scott Morrison, that they are entitled to make the final decision as to whether they should be vaccinated.

It is surprising then, that he and the federal government have not rushed to support federal MP Craig Kellys bid to pass a No Domestic COVID-19 Vaccine Passports Bill, which would aim to protect the right of Australians to make their own health decisions in relation to COVID vaccination.

Were such federal legislation challenged by WA, the federal government could argue persuasively that it was made under federal power to legislate with respect to medical services and that this would naturally prevail constitutionally over any conflicting state law.

WA could argue, much less convincingly, that the federal power specifically excludes civil conscription and therefore does not extend to mandatory vaccinations which is thus a purely state matter.

Without such federal legislation, any legal argument that mandatory injections are invalid as a breach of fundamental rights could attract a similar rejection to that recently handed down by the Justice Robert Beech-Jones in the New South Wales (NSW) Supreme Court.

It is unlikely that the present High Court would overrule this, whatever decisions were made in the NSW Court of Appeal. And all this would take a long time to resolve.

That is why the federal government should now get behind Kellys Bill.

Independent MP Craig Kelly speaking at the Worldwide Rally for Freedom, Peace, and Human Rights in protest against COVID-19 vaccine passports in Sydney, Australia, on May 17, 2021. (The Epoch Times)

In what critics would say was artificially legalistic, Justice Beech-Jones said that so far as the right to bodily integrity is concerned, it is not violated, as the impugned orders do not authorise the involuntary vaccination of anyone.

It was conceded that the orders curtail freedom of movement, which in turn affects a persons ability to work and socialise. But these he ruled, were restrictions which the NSW Public Health Act clearly authorises.

If the federal government does not support Kellys Bill, the better legal case would be to challenge the directions as an exercise of misfeasance in public office, a little known actionable civil wrong.

There is a strong precedent for this in Justice Steven Raress 2020 Federal Court of Australia judgment against the government in Brett Cattle Company Pty Ltd v Minister for Agriculture, concerning the Gillard governments live cattle ban.

The government, under strong National Party pressure, decided not to appeal his decision, no doubt because this would have been extremely unpopular in rural circles.

A powerful decision, it might not have withstood appeals to the full Federal Court and the High Court.

This is because courts have usually taken the view that in challenges to subordinate legislation made by the executive, such as the WA directions, they should be deferential to the executive.

What would be the best argument to encourage courts to subject mandatory vaccination to the same tests applied by Justice Rares? These were the tests of reasonableness and proportionality in relation to the impact of the live cattle ban government on the common law rights of ordinary Australians.

That best argument could well be that the court should no longer show any deference to an executive which is no longer subject to the usual checks and balances.

Demonstrators march through the streets to protest lockdowns in Melbourne, Australia, on Sept. 18, 2021. (William West/AFP via Getty Images)

Indeed, the fact that these checks and balances have been gradually whittled away over the years will not escape the judges.

The people will be looking to the judges for justice as a last resort. For the system to hold and to enjoy the support of the people, the judges should not fail them.

Mandatory vaccinations are unjustifiable and may well be the edge for the maintenance of authoritarian rule by the politicians without any of the usual safeguards.

The immortal words of the great Lord John Acton echo down the ages: Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

What is truly extraordinary is that Australians today are less free than they were under British colonial rule.

Views expressed in this article are the opinions of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.
A demonstrator holds flags of Taiwan and the United States in support of Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen during an stop-over after her visit to Latin America in Burlingame, Calif., on Jan. 14, 2017. (Stephen Lam/Reuters)

US Calls for Taiwans Meaningful Participation in UN System

The United States has called for all member states of the United Nations (U.N.) to support Taiwans robust, meaningful participation in the system, saying the world has much to learn from the self-ruled islands democratic success story.

As the international community faces an unprecedented number of complex and global issues, it is critical for all stakeholders to help address these problems. This includes the 24 million people who live in Taiwan, said Secretary of State Antony Blinken in an Oct. 26 statement marking the 50th year since Taiwan was voted out of the U.N. to give way to the Chinese communist regime.

Since Taiwans ousting from the global body in 1972, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), which views the island as part of its territory and claims it has the sole right to represent Taiwan on the world stage, has worked vigorously to bar Taipeis participation in international fora.

Blinken said Taiwans participation in the U.N. is not a political issue, but a pragmatic one.

The fact that Taiwan participated robustly in certain UN specialized agencies for the vast majority of the past 50 years is evidence of the value the international community places in Taiwans contributions, he said.

Taiwans exclusion from U.N. activities undermines the important work of the UN and its related bodies, he said. Although we have much to learn from Taiwans world-class response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan was not at the World Health Assembly.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken looks on during a meeting with youth leaders in Bogota, Colombia on Oct. 21, 2021. (Luisa Gonzalez/Pool/Reuters)

Taiwans scientists, technical experts, business persons, artists, educators, students, human rights advocates, and others are blocked from entry and participating in U.N. activities that civil society members around the world engage in everyday, simply because of the passports they hold, he added.

Taiwan broke from the mainland in the late 1940s as the Chinese Communist Party took hold of China.

Taipei continued to hold a seat at the U.N. until 1971, when a U.N. resolution voted out Taiwan from the U.N. affiliated bodies in favor of Beijing.

As a result of Beijings campaign to isolate the island, Taiwan has not been invited to the annual World Health Assembly, the World Health Organizations decision-making body, since 2017.

Despite not maintaining diplomatic ties with the island, the United States has a robust relationship with Taiwan and is its largest supplier of arms.

On Oct. 22, the State Department held a high-level meeting with Taiwanese counterparts to discuss expanding Taiwans role on the international stage.

This administration believes Taiwan, as a leading democracy, has a lot to offer to the world on these key challenges, including within international fora, State Department spokesperson Ned Price said on Oct. 25.
President Joe Biden speaks at an event at the Electric City Trolley Museum in Scranton, Pa., on Oct. 20, 2021. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

US Defense Contractor Will Lose Several Thousand People Over COVID Vaccine Mandate: CEO

The CEO of Defense Department contractor Raytheon said that the White House COVID-19 mandate will cause the firm to lose several thousand employees who will not take the vaccine.

We will lose several thousand people, Raytheon Chief Executive Greg Hayes said during an interview Tuesday. He said that the company, which has about 125,000 workers in the United States, is carrying out staff hiring to deal with the potential problem.

About 3 percent of the workers at the company, which manufactures Tomahawk missiles used by the United States and other militaries, wont get the vaccine, he told CNBC.

Its not just the prime contractors, but its also all of our subcontractors that need to follow that mandate as well, Hayes also said during a conference call on the companys third-quarter earnings. This is not huge in the grand scheme of $64.5 billion in revenue, but there will be some expected impact.

Several weeks ago, Raytheon said it will require all employees to get the vaccine by mid-December to comply with President Joe Bidens mandate for nearly all federal workers and contractors.

Similar to executives in other large American corporations, Raytheon believes that the vaccine will improve its business.

Higher vaccination rates will continue to build confidence in the safety of air travel going forward, Neil Mitchell, Raytheons chief financial officer, also said during the conference call on Tuesday.

Other than Raytheon, Boeing, which also holds a U.S. government contract, announced a vaccine mandate for all its workers earlier this month. The move prompted hundreds of Boeing employees to protest at the companys offices near Seattle in mid-October.

Several defense contractors in late September issued a statement via the Aerospace Industries Association, which represents Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics Corp., and others supporting Bidens vaccine mandate.

Americas aerospace and defense industry stands together as we prepare to implement the new federal vaccine requirement, while working with our government partners as they develop detailed guidance, Eric Fanning, the associations president, said in a statement at the time.

However, a group representing air cargo carriers such as UPS and FedEx issued a warning to the White House and Office of Management and Budget that the mandate for contractors may cause significant supply chain disruptions. UPS and FedEx are both federal contractors.

[T]he looming December 8 mandate for having fully vaccinat[ed] workforces creates a significant supply chain problem, the Cargo Airline Association said. This problem is further exacerbated by the fact that we are already experiencing a worker shortage, both in the air and on the ground, and any loss of employees who refuse to be vaccinated will adversely impact needed operations.
State Department spokesman Ned Price speaks on the situation in Afghanistan at the State Department in Washington, DC, U.S. on Aug. 18, 2021. (Andrew Harnik/Pool via Reuters)

US Suspends $700 Million in Aid to Sudan After Military Takeover

The U.S. State Department on Monday paused $700 million in emergency aid to Sudan that was intended to support the countrys democratic transition, after members of Sudans military ousted the civilian-led transitional government.

The civilian-led transitional government should be immediately restored and represents the will of the people, State Department spokesman Ned Price said during a press briefing. In light of these developments, the United States is pausing assistance from the $700 million in emergency assistance appropriations of economic support funds for Sudan.

Price told reporters that the sum was appropriated by Congress to support Sudans democratic transition after the ouster of long-ruling autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising two years ago. He added that none of the $700 million had been transferred and so the entire sum had been suspended.

We are pausing that full amount, Price said, adding that further aid could be at risk if military leaders do not restore the civilian government.

We are very much standing with the people of Sudan, he continued. The people of Sudan have made clear their aspirations for the continuation of transition to democracy and we will continue to support that including, if needed, by holding accountable those responsible for these anti-democratic actions.

He also called on militants to refrain from any violence against protesters, as reports emerged seven people were killed by gunfire and 140 injured in clashes between soldiers and street protesters.

The head of Sudans ruling council, Gen. Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman al-Burhan, announced a countrywide state of emergency on Oct. 25 and dissolved the militarycivilian Sovereign Council that had been established to guide the country to democracy following the overthrow of al-Bashir, who ruled the country for nearly 30 years.

In announcing the state of emergency, al-Burhan cited the armed forces need to protect safety and security. He promised to hold elections in July 2023 and hand over to an elected civilian government then.

What the country is going through now is a real threat and danger to the dreams of the youth and the hopes of the nation, he said.

The Sudan information ministry, which is still loyal to ousted Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, said on its Facebook page that the transitional constitution gives only the prime minister the right to declare a state of emergency and that the militarys actions are a crime. Hamdok is still the legitimate transitional authority, it said.

We firmly reject the dissolution of the civilian-led transitional government and its associated institutions and call for their immediate restoration. The arrest of Prime Minister Hamdok and other civilian leaders is unacceptable, Secretary of State Anthony Blinken said in a statement. The military forces must ensure their safety and release them immediately. These actions have the potential to derail the countrys transition to democracy and are a betrayal of Sudans peaceful revolution.

The U.N. Security Council is scheduled to meet on Tuesday afternoon for an emergency meeting on the matter.

We are gravely concerned by reports that Sudanese security forces have used live ammunition against peaceful protesters, Blinken added. Security officials should immediately cease the use of violence against peaceful protesters. We also urge the restoration of Internet services.

The United States is under U.S. law obliged to suspend most economic support to nations where civilian leaders are ousted by the military, AFP reported.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) said in a statement on Monday that its humanitarian assistance for people in need in Sudan, which exceeded $386 million in fiscal year 2021, will continue.

The United States stands with the Sudanese people, who continue to reject military rule. We call for the safety and immediate release of political detainees, restoration of the civilian-led transitional government and its associated institutions, and resumption of Internet and telecommunications services, the statement said.

Sudanese security forces use of live rounds against ongoing protests in Khartoum are deeply disturbing. We demand that Sudans security forces refrain from any further violence against protesters and hold to account those responsible.

Reuters contributed to this report.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen testifies before the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee hearings in Washington on Sept. 30, 2021. (Al Drago/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

US Treasury Secretary Yellen Holds Talks With Chinas Trade Negotiator

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen spoke with Chinas top trade negotiator Liu He via video call on Oct. 25, during which the two sides raised their respective concerns.

Yellen frankly raised issues of concern, the U.S. Treasury announced in a short statement without elaborating on what the issues were. The statement did add that the two discussed macroeconomic and financial developments in both nations.

According to a Chinese readout from the Ministry of Commerce, Liu expressed concerns during the virtual meeting over U.S. tariffs and sanctions, as well as the U.S. treatment of Chinese companies. The ministry described the bilateral discussion as pragmatic, candid, and constructive.

The talks occurred less than a month after Liu held an online meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai. During that conversation, which took place on Oct. 9, Liu pushed Tai to cancel U.S. tariffs, while the two sides reviewed implementation of the U.S.China Economic and Trade Agreement.

The phase one trade deal, signed during the Trump administration in January 2020, required China to buy at least $200 billion worth of additional U.S. goods and services over the following two years. According to analysts from the Washington-based Peterson Institute for International Economics, China didnt fulfill its purchase commitments in 2020 and met about 69 percent through the first eight months of this year.

A few hours after Yellen and Liu talked, Chinas hawkish state-run outlet Global Times published its own analysis, saying that it was the U.S. side that was eager to engage China, since the talk took place after working hours in the United States.

The article also claimed that it is expected that Washington would cancel the tariffs on Chinese goods, arguing that the tariffs could be abolished in an indirect way, such as exemptions.

Antonio Graceffo, an economics professor and China economic analyst, in his analysis for The Epoch Times on Oct. 19, stated that U.S. tariffs have punched a tremendous hole in the Chinese economy.

Tariffs and other restrictions against China will deny the CCP [Chinese Communist Party] the money it needs to modernize its military, while also protecting U.S. jobs and securing U.S. national defense by reducing U.S. dependence on foreign supply chains, he said.

On Oct. 4, Tai delivered a major policy address on SinoU.S. economic ties at the Washington-based think tank Center for Strategic and International Studies. During her speech, she said that Washington would start a targeted tariff exclusion process to exempt some Chinese imports from punitive U.S. tariffs while pressing Beijing over its failure to keep its promises under the phase one trade agreement.

The day after her speech, at least two U.S. lawmakers expressed concerns about the Biden administrations trade policy on China.

Ambassador Tais speech accurately observed the zero-sum nature of the CCPs industrial policies and limited prospect for structural economic reform in China, stated Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), the ranking Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, according to a statement. However, after many months of waiting for the Biden administrations China trade policy, there still appears to be no plan to counteract or insulate our economy from the increasingly antagonistic and damaging trade policies pouring out of China.

Rep. Kevin Brady (R-Texas), the top Republican on the House Ways and Means Committee, said the Biden administration should move on to phase two negotiations, according to a statement from his office.

We could better confront China by proceeding to phase two negotiations, or through high-standard new trade agreements that strengthen economic partnerships with our allies, he said.

The Trump administration originally wanted to hold phase two talks with Beijing to tackle more challenging issues such as Chinas use of state subsidies to support state-run companies. The talks never materialized.

In early October, senior administration officials said during a press call that Washington wont pursue a phase two negotiation, but will raise concerns on [Chinas] industrial policies.
Citizens for Freedom protest against mandatory vaccinations at an event in Trenton, South Carolina, on Oct. 21, 2021. (Supplied Image)

Vaccine Sackings Spark Lawsuit, Safety Concerns at Nuclear Facility

A group of 80 workers filed suit against their South Carolina nuclear-waste management company on Oct. 12 over firings related to the facilitys vaccine mandate.

The plaintiffs are asking the local court for a declaratory judgment, a temporary restraining order, and a permanent injunction to block the vaccine mandate imposed by Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS).

The plaintiffs are among an estimated 220 staff members who remain unvaccinated. SRNS employs 5,500 people. More than 96 percent of the workforce has been vaccinated against the CCP virus as of Oct. 21, a company spokeswoman told The Epoch Times.

It smacks of fascism when corporate America is doing the bidding of the government in forcing a vaccine mandate on employees by proxy, retired Marine Col. Jim Harmon, a former employee, said.

Harmon, a decorated veteran of three-and-a-half deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, lost his security department job on Oct. 14 for refusing to receive a vaccine. He said to do so would violate the tenets of his religion.

Religious Exemptions Denied

In an Oct. 12 memo to employees, SRNS President Stuart MacVean announced that the company had processed a large number of requests for religious exemptions and after careful consideration denied all requests for accommodation.

MacVean called accommodations, such as weekly testing, an undue burden on our company, citing the large number of requests for religious exemptions as a factor in the action.

They didnt even give us the option to get tested at the local drugstore at our own expense, Harmon said. This really bothers me, especially after the company said it would consider medical and religious requests for exemptions on an individual basis.

Harmon said his request for religious exemption was genuine, and that he wasnt trying to use it to get out of getting the vaccine. He said he provided documentation from his church supporting his application.

Actions taken by SRNS to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine for all employees were done solely to protect the health and safety of the workforce, SRNS spokeswoman Barbara Smoak told The Epoch Times. It is SRNSs sincere desire that those who are unvaccinated will decide to receive the vaccine by the Nov. 30 deadline for full vaccination and remain employed by SRNS.

Donald Brown, the attorney for the terminated employees, argued that such a decision was more difficult than SRNS is making it out to be.

That decision is not like choosing between an Egg McMuffin and a cheeseburger. Its a decision of great consequence, he said.

This case is about state law and freedom. Its about the unauthorized practice of medicine by a medically unqualified employer who has no knowledge of the medical condition, or history of individual employees, and yet is forcing a potentially harmful medication on them as a condition of employment.

Protect Health and Safety

Harmon believes that SRNS lost at least a couple of hundred employees due to the vaccine mandate.

He told The Epoch Times he believes the security, safety, and operations at the nuclear processing, refining, and storage facility will suffer as a result.

These workers are not common day laborers. They include nuclear engineers, scientists, tech security, and program managers. Some with 30 years experience. People with their qualifications are not easily replaced.

But its a double problem. Even if management finds equally qualified replacements, they must have, or get, security clearances. That can take a year.

According to Harmon, many of his coworkers are scared to say anything.

SRNS did not respond to a question about the potential impact of staff reductions on the safety and security of the firms operations.

The employees suit also contends that individual choice in medical matters, even in times of emergency, and specifically including vaccinations, is a well-established principle in South Carolina law.

A female SRNS employee stated in an affidavit, notarized on Oct. 19, that she was given no such choice.

I was forced to obtain the vaccine, or be terminated by the company.

The mandate left me no choice but to do so out of fear of losing my job. I reluctantly obtained the Johnson & Johnson vaccine.

Following her single-shot vaccination, the woman said she experienced a severe reaction, including skin pain, drop in blood pressure, dizziness and weakness.

It was a very scary experience that I never would have gone through had there not been a vaccine mandate, she said.

Harmon said the SRNS out-processing procedures on Oct. 14 were heavy-handed and utterly insulting, with between 20 and 30 heavily armed members of the companys protective force stationed both in and around the Human Resources room, as if they were anticipating a riot.

Some had M-4 service rifles. The only thing missing from being fully outfitted to go to war was a helmet. Normally, in places like an HR area, they would be wearing their polo-shirts and sidearms.

Treated Like a Spy

Harmon said all the personal items he was carrying, but his car keys, were taken from him, including his cell phone.

He was surprised that no comfort features, like chairs, were provided to allow employees to sit while doing the paperwork.

I think the whole thing was a deliberate show of force designed to intimidate and corral employees into submission, Harmon said. One day I was a valued and trusted employee with a top security clearance. The next day I was treated like a spy, or saboteur, or terrorist. All because I wont take the shot

Smoak said SRNS security personnel were wearing their everyday uniforms, which are appropriate for all site entrances.

Measures that were put in place were to assist with directing the employees to the location and to ensure their safety.

Brown said he was hoping for a speedy resolution, but said attorneys for SRNS filed for a notice of removal in order to bump the case up to the Federal District Court of South Carolina at Columbia.
Anne Serdy at Shen Yun Performing Arts at the California Center for the Arts, Escondido, Calif., on Oct, 24, 2021. (NTD Television)

ESCONDIDO, Calif.Magnificent as always, said Anne Serdy after watching Shen Yun Performing Arts for what she estimated to be the seventh time. Serdy is a veterinarian who works at the local High Valley Veterinary Hospital.

Everything is to perfection, she said. The magnificent artistry and the costumes and the sparkle and the laughter and the orchestra.

New York-based Shen Yun, a company whose aim is the revival of traditional Chinese culture in its purest form, was playing at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido on Oct. 24.

Classical Chinese dance, through storytelling, bequeaths the teachings, legends, and history of Chinas diverse dynasties, arts, and spiritual schools from a period of 5,000 years. Shen Yun also celebrates Chinas many colorful regional dances that have very distinctive features.

Serdy said she enjoyed Shen Yuns use of stage technology, with its unique digital animations that have been patented by the company.

Its an amazing combination of technology, she said, with the screen behind and then the dancers jumping off the back of the screen and then back on to the stage. The merging [is] always flawless, she said.

One of the pieces in Shen Yun is rooted in the belief in a divine power that descends to earth to help mankind.

I think that definitely occurs for the people who believe in [the divine], and I feel that everybody is touched by [the divine] even if they dont believe, Serdy said.

For Serdy, Shen Yun has been life-changing and heartfelt.

I come every year because its the one day that really fills you for the rest of the year.  Anne Serdy

I come every year because its the one day that really fills you for the rest of the year, she said of her experience.

You can always think back on this day and think back on the things youve seen, and you can see how hard the people on the stage work, and even the musicians and the orchestra. Its magnificent that they share their talent with you, she added.

Lauren Peppard and Paul Shurov at Shen Yun Performing Arts at the California Center for the Arts in Escondido, Calif., on Oct. 24, 2021. (Sophia Fang/The Epoch Times)

Lauren Peppard and Paul Shurov also saw Shen Yun at the California Center for the Arts, but it was their first time.

It was incredible. Everything was perfect, Peppard said, a software engineer. The dancers were beautiful; the costumes were amazing; the acrobatics were breathtaking. I loved all the flips they did and the really high kicks.

The show seemed very much larger than life with all the colors and the choreography; everything happening simultaneously, it was very unique. There was a lot of detail in each one of the moves, finance manager Shurov said.

Roger French, a musician who was also in the audience, was impressed by the synchronicity of the performance.

The music timing in with the dancing is absolutely remarkable. Every bit of expression that is within the dancers coincides with what the orchestra is doing. And then, what is so unique about the orchestra is the combination of Eastern and Western instruments, and for me, its very much a joy to see how well  the composer has integrated Eastern and Western music, he said.

Reporting by Sophia Fang and NTD Television.

The Epoch Times considers Shen Yun Performing Arts the significant cultural event of our time. We have proudly covered audience reactions since Shen Yuns inception in 2006.
Virginia Couple Receive Nearly 20 Years Combined Prison Sentence for $31.8 Million Counterfeit Coupon Scheme

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on Oct. 21 released further details about a $31.8 million counterfeit coupon scheme that resulted in a Virginia couple receiving a combined prison sentence of nearly 20 years.

In September, Lori Ann Talens, 41, was sentenced to 12 years in prison, while her husband Pacifico Talens, Jr., 43, was sentenced to seven years behind bars one month prior for perpetrating a counterfeit coupon fraud scheme that cost retailers and manufacturers over $31 million in losses, marking one of the largest coupon fraud schemes ever discovered in the United States.

According to court documents, between April 2017 and May 2020, Lori Ann Talens operated a complex scheme using social media sites and apps such as Facebook and Telegram to find groups of coupon enthusiasts and sell them counterfeit coupons.

Operating under the name MasterChef, she used a computer to design and produce a variety of counterfeit coupons from her home in Virginia Beach.

The Department of Justice said the counterfeit coupons made by Talens, who has a background in marketing and strong graphic design skills, were virtually indistinguishable from authentic coupons, and were often made with inflated values, allowing customers to purchase retail items at a greatly reduced cost.

The FBI said in a release on Thursday that the Coupon Information Corporation (CIC) had contacted Inspector Jason Thomasson with the U.S. Postal Service with a tipoff that they believed the Virginia couple were behind the counterfeit coupon operation.

Upon investigating and gaining a search warrant to their home, FBI officials found fake couponsworth more than $1 millionin every crevice of the property.

There were coupons in every jacket pocket; they were stuffed in her vehicles, said Thomasson. They also found designs on Talens computer that allowed her to create coupons for more than 13,000 products, which amounted to approximately $31,817,997 million in losses to retailers and manufacturers.

She trained herself in the different techniques she needed to manipulate barcodes to make these coupons work, said Special Agent Shannon Brill.

She had coupons for $24.99 off a $25 box of diapers. And it would work, said Thomasson. And youd have people walking out the door with those diapers for almost nothing.

FBI agents noted that because store cashiers are not trained to question the authenticity of the coupons that customers provide, the fake coupons would remain undiscovered for weeks or even months.

Talens not only used the self-made coupons herself but provided them to large groups of individuals that she communicated with via encrypted apps, the FBI said.

To decrease the level of risk associated with her fake coupon scheme, Lori Talens would only allow new members into the group if they were referred to her by an existing member and provided a copy of their ID along with evidence that they had used counterfeit coupons before.

Talens accepted payment through various payment applications as well as by virtual currency. Occasionally, she would exchange coupons for stolen rolls of the special paper stores use to print out coupons, the FBI said.

Over a three-year period, Lori Talens received roughly $400,000 from members of her group in payments, the FBI said, adding that she used the profits to pay for high-end home renovations, including a new kitchen and swimming pool, as well as holidays, shopping sprees, and dining out.

In a separate scheme between November 2015 through February 2020, Lori Talens defrauded Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by applying for benefits for both programs while failing to disclose that her husband Pacifico had legitimate employment income, or illegitimate income from the counterfeit coupon scheme.

Had she disclosed this income, the Talens would not have been eligible for these benefits. The DOJ said that the total loss to Medicaid and SNAP was approximately $43,000.

Both Lori and her husband pleaded guilty to mail fraud in April. Pacifico Talens, Jr., was aware of the counterfeit coupon scheme, profited from it, and assisted his wife by shipping packages of counterfeit coupons and performing other administrative tasks, the DOJ said.

Lori Ann Talens also pleaded guilty to wire fraud and health care fraud. She was also ordered to pay $31.8 million in restitution to the retailers and manufacturers who suffered losses in her scheme.

The FBI said that the investigation into the Talens is ongoing and that they are currently still looking into those who participated in her group as well as other individuals who engage in fake coupon schemes.
No matter which major party won Americas presidential election in 1920, the country was destined for another chief executive from Ohio. Both major party candidates, Republican Warren Harding and Democrat James Cox, hailed from the Buckeye State.

The likable Harding emerged as a landslide victor, died in office two and a half years later, and is poorly regarded by the bulk of professional historians. Its not the first time, however, that the self-anointed experts deviated from the masses. (Have you seen the scores on RottenTomatoes.com for the nauseatingly unctuous film Fauci? The so-called top critics, numbering 16, awarded the hagiography a 94 percent Tomatometer rating. The audiences score drew from 500+ people and its a measly 2 percent. Count me with the proletariat on that one.)

Harding was popular among Americans as a whole, largely becauseunlike his meddlesome and preachy predecessor Woodrow Wilsonhe left us alone, cut our taxes, and kept the peace. People were so disgusted with the big government of the staunchly racist Wilson that even a mediocre successor betrayed by a few corrupt underlings looked good by comparison. Of some 80 U.S. Treasury secretaries in the countrys history, by the way, Harding appointed the best of them, Andrew Mellon.

If I were to assign a Tomatometer score to Hardings White House tenure, it would probably be 50 percent, or about a five on a 10-point scale. Not the worst (Wilson earns that award), and not the best. But because Harding rarely gets a fair shake, Id like to praise him on this centennial date of something he did well.

President Warren Harding makes a speech at Martinsburg, W.Va., during his Voyage of Understanding trip to Alaska in July 1923. (Keystone View Company/Archive Photos/Getty Images)

It was Oct. 26, 1921. The scene was an assembly of 30,000 people in the heart of the deeply Democratic and Jim Crow SouthBirmingham, Alabama. Racial tensions had bubbled up everywhere in the aftermath of race riots such as the Tulsa Massacre only five months before. There in Birmingham, President Harding became the first American president of the 20th century to openly call for the political equality of blacks in largely white America.

The audience was segregated20,000 whites in the front, 10,000 blacks in the rear. When the president finished, the cheers all came from the back.

On race, Harding was in one way a product of his times. He endorsed blacks and whites going their separate ways in social settings if they so chose. He wasnt a fan of intermarriage.

But when it came to race and the law, he was well ahead of his time. He spurned the notion that the law should treat one race differently than another. He warned the Birmingham audience that he was going to speak frankly whether you like it or not, and he sure did.

He noted with regret, for example, that Thousands of black men, serving their country [in World War I] just as patriotically as did the white men, were transported overseas and experienced the life of countries where their color aroused less antagonism than it does here.

Warren Harding at Elks National Home in Bedford, Va., in 1920. (Public domain)

Harding said it was a colored soldier who told him that the war brought his race the first real conception of citizenshipthe first full realization that the flag was their flag, to fight for, to be protected by them, and also to protect them.

The good folks in 1921 Birmingham needed to hear that, especially from the highest official in the land.

Harding told the 30,000 assembled in Birmingham that the goals we should pursue together are complete uniformity in ideals, absolute equality in the paths of knowledge and culture, equal opportunity for those who strive, and equal admiration for those who achieve.

He declared that while blacks and whites should be free to associate or to separate in their personal and social choices, pursuing even a degree of racial pride if they want, there should be no occasion for limitations of the individuals opportunity.

I would insist upon equal educational opportunity for both blacks and whites, he said.

Here are additional excerpts from Hardings exceptional and historic speech:

These things lead one to hope that we shall find an adjustment of relations between the two races, in which both can enjoy full citizenship, the full measure of usefulness to the country and of opportunity for themselves, and in which recognition and reward shall at last be distributed in proportion to individual deserts, regardless of race or color.

_____

Coming as Americans do from many origins of race, tradition, language, color, institutions, heredity; engaged as we are in the huge effort to work an honorable national destiny from so many different elements; the one thing we must sedulously avoid is the development of group and class organizations in this country. There has been time when we heard too much about the labor vote, the business vote, the Irish vote, the Scandinavian vote, the Italian vote, and so on. But the demagogues who would array class against class and group against group have fortunately found little to reward their efforts. That is because, despite the demagogues, the idea of our oneness as Americans has risen superior to every appeal to mere class and group. And so I would wish it might be in this matter of our national problem of races. I would accent that a black man can not be a white man, and that he does not need and should not aspire to be as much like a white man as possible in order to accomplish the best that is possible for him. He should seek to be, and he should be encouraged to be, the best possible black man, and not the best possible imitation of a white man.

_____

Just as I do not wish the South to be politically entirely of one party; just as I believe that is bad for the South, and for the rest of the country as well, so I do not want the colored people to be entirely of one party. I wish that both the tradition of a solidly Democratic South and the tradition of a solidly Republican black race might be broken up. Neither political sectionalism nor any system of rigid groupings of the people will in the long run prosper our country. I want to see the time come when black men will regard themselves as full participants in the benefits and duties of American citizenship; when they will vote for Democratic candidates, if they prefer the Democratic policy on tariff or taxation, or foreign relations, or what-not; and when they will vote the Republican ticket only for like reasons. We can not go on, as we have gone for more than a half century, with one great section of our population, numbering as many people as the entire population of some significant countries of Europe, set off from real contribution to solving our national issues, because of a division on race lines.

_____

I plead with my own political party to lay aside every program that looks to lining up the black man as a mere political adjunct. Let there be an end of prejudice and of demagogy in this line. Let the South understand the menace which lies in forcing upon the black race an attitude of political solidarity. The greater hope, the dissipation of hatred, the discouragement of dangerous passions lie in persuading the black people to forget old prejudices and to have them believe that, under the rule of whatever political party, they would be treated just as other people are treated, guaranteed all the rights that people of other colors enjoy, and made, in short, to regard themselves as citizens of a country and not of a particular race.

_____

When I speak of education as a part of this race question, I do not want the States or the Nation to attempt to educate people, whether white or black, into something they are not fitted to be. I have no sympathy with the half-baked altruism that would overstock us with doctors and lawyers, of whatever color, and leave us in need of people fit and willing to do the manual work of a workaday world. But I would like to see an education that would fit every man not only to do his particular work as well as possible but to rise to a higher plane if he would deserve it. For that sort of education I have no fears, whether it be given to a black man or a white man. From that sort of education. I believe, black men, white men, the whole Nation, would draw immeasurable benefit.

Those were bold and remarkable words for a president to utter in 1921, let alone a president written off by later historians as unworthy of the job. The country certainly never heard anything like this from Wilson, who did all he could to keep blacks out of the federal government, or to segregate them if they slipped in. Republican Harding hired blacks; Democrat Wilson fired them.

One more thing you should know is exactly where in Birmingham that the underrated Harding said these admirable things. It wasno kiddingin a place called Woodrow Wilson Park.

This article was originally published on FEE.org
Thousands of protesters against the NYC vaccine mandates march along Brooklyn bridge into Manhattan, New York, on Oct. 26, 2021. (Sarah Lu/The Epoch Times)

We Have a Communist Takeover: Thousands of NYC Firemen and Police Officers Defy Vaccine Mandates in Largest Protest Yet

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasios mandate last week for all city workers to get COVID-19 vaccines gave rise to even more protesters standing up against what they see as a violation of freedom of choice and a communist takeover of the country.

The Epoch Times was there to interview some of the NYPD officers and FDNY participants, and witness the massive march across the Brooklyn Bridge that ended in front of City Hall on Monday afternoon.

Protesters chanted slogans as they marched in support of freedom and against the mandates issued by de Blasio and President Joe Biden.

Active FDNY Captain Jason Wendell of Engine 274 said that there were thousands and thousands of them present in the Monday march.

New York City firefighters and police officers have been exposed for the last 20 months to COVID-19. Most of us have gotten the sickness and gotten over it perfectly well and have natural immunity, Wendell said, and the fact that the mayor and politicians are not acknowledging that the vast majority of us are already naturally immune is nothing short of tyrannical.

Fireman Jason Wendell protesting against NYC vaccine mandates, Manhattan, New York, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Sarah Lu/The Epoch Times)

There were thousands and thousands of New York City firemen and New York City police officers, sanitation workers, and teachers here today to protest these obscene mandates.

The mandate will affect 160,500 city employees, which includes first responders.

If they fail to show vaccination proof by Oct. 29, they will likely be sent home without pay.

The city will become much more unsafe without first responders and police officers and sanitation workers keeping the city functioning, this will have a tremendous negative impact on the people of New York as you push out these workers from service, Wendell added.

Paul, a 24-year-old NYPD officer, has been with the police for 3 years. He said that he joined the march because hes being denied freedom of choice.

It should be our choice, Paul said. I personally dont want [the vaccine] and if its that effective for everyone else, then they shouldnt care if we get it.

The messaging by the government was saying that it wasnt effective  if the governments telling that, then why would I get it. Its not effective.

Thousands of protesters against the NYC vaccine mandates march along Brooklyn bridge into Manhattan, New York, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Petr Svab/The Epoch Times)

Retired police officer Philip McManus worked for NYPD from 1990 to 2018.

Why are we here? Were here, its not just because of forced mandates, medical mandates. This is about freedom. This is the real issue, its about freedom. And were fighting a dictatorship in this country. Were fighting a tyranny in our country. The reality is, we have a president who is forcing people to do something that is absolutely against their religious opinions or their medical decisions, and we have to do everything we can to fight for everyone. Everyone that was forced to be vaccinated needs to stand united for freedom. We all know whats going on in this country. We have a communist takeover in this country. 

Give me liberty or give me death, he said, quoting Patrick Henrys famous words from 1775.

Retired NYPD officer Philip McManus protesting against NYC vaccine mandates in Manhattan, New York, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Sarah Lu/The Epoch Times)

How dare any politician, any corrupt politicians think that they could force Americans to take this vaccine?

Wake up America! were fighting tyranny in this country. We are fighting communism in this country.

Were on the side of God and truth.

Thousands of protesters against the NYC vaccine mandates march along Brooklyn bridge into Manhattan, New York, on Oct. 25, 2021. (Petr Svab/The Epoch Times)

George, 53, a retired fireman and veteran that worked for the FDNY for 22 and a half years, doesnt want to get vaccinated because he believes they are dangerous.

Real, deadly global pandemics dont have [such] a [high] survival rate, George said, and if thats the case, we dont need [a] vaccine, George said.

If you surf on all the alternate media sitesnot Facebook, Youtube, where they censor all that stuffthere are a million videos of people out there that get palsy, they got the shakes, one girls got giant blood clots in her cheeks, people are dying.

Were in year two of 15 days to slow the spread. And as a free American and a veteran, theres not a politician alive in this country that has the power or authority to compel you, me, or anyone else to take the vaccine or wear a mask. Were free Americans. Its time for people to wake up, George further noted.

The very same crowd that wants to ban guns to save the children while being champions of abortion, theyre saying my body my choice. Oddly enough, my body my choice doesnt want to work for this.

He added that just by being asked if you are vaccinated, it could count as a violation of the HIPAA medical privacy laws.

Its About Control

An NYPD officer who identified himself as Qball and retirements opined that the mandates might lead to a system of totalitarian technological control.

I oppose the mandate because of the New World Order. Its not about the virus. Its about technology and control of the masses, he said.

The Epoch Times also interviewed NYC special and general education pre-K teacher Jessica Castellon.

I dont believe experimental drugs should be mandated on children whose physical development and cognitive development is still unrolling. We dont know the long-term effects of this on children. We dont know the long-term effects of this on adults who already have fully formed functioning bodies. We dont know what this will do to the children and we cannot afford to have Americas future generation imperiled by a drug, just to [line] the pockets of the politicians and those in Pfizer, Moderna, and all the other pharmaceutical companies, Castellon said.

The mandates have had a negative impact on teachers and others like teachers assistants and other staff members of the DOE [Department of Education] because theyre statewide. In New York State there is a statewide shortage of teachers, so when teachers are placed on unpaid leave, that stresses the sub central system. There are not enough substitute teachers to cover these absences.

The Epoch Times reached out to the mayors office for comment.

The Epoch Times reported that in Chicago, the vast majority of firemen and police initially didnt want to take the vaccine, but that situation changed after they started getting sent home without pay, facing a long, uncertain process with HR if they want to return.

Peter Svab and Sarah Lu contributed to this report.
Were Paying People to Be Homeless: Michael Shellenberger, Author of San Fransicko

Government subsidies for homeless Americans can be more hurtful than helpful, according to Michael Shellenberger, author of San Fransicko: Why Progressives Ruin Cities.

We have a situation here where were literally paying people in the form of cash, welfare, housing, and other services to live in tents on the street, use hard drugs, defecate publicly, and commit crimes, he said on EpochTVs American Thought Leaders program. The full episode will be released on Thurs. Oct. 28 at 7 p.m. ET on EpochTV.

Shellenberger said the problem begins with the word homeless itselfcalling it a propaganda word that doesnt encapsulate what the issue is actually formed from.

He said since the 1980s, progressive activists demanded more subsidized housing, attributing the cause of homelessness to a lack of housing, expensive rents, or poverty and thats not the case.

The problem with using the word homeless, he said, is that it incorrectly combines two very different groups. Its irresponsible to conflate mothers escaping abusive husbands, or people who are just going through some hard times, with people who are mentally ill, or drug-addicted, or both, says Shellenberger.

The term homeless encampments is another incorrect euphuism, he said, explaining that its often thought of as a homeless community where individuals are helping each other out; but in actuality, its an open-air drug market.

European researchers  describe [homeless encampments] as open drugs scenes, where people live inside of open-air drug markets. Buyers and sellers are meeting there, but theyre also just living there because theyre so addicted, Shellenberger said.

The failed European homeless encampments, which is being repeated in California, involves giving homeless drug addicts methadone (a heroin substitute), clean needles, and encouraging drug treatment, he said.

The people said, No, Ill just stay here in the squalor and use drugs, because theyre suffering from a kind of mental illness, which is what drug addiction is, said Shellenberger.

A homeless man sleep near tents in downtown Los Angeles on Nov. 18, 2018. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

People struggling with drug addiction need to be met with some type of intervention, he said, or they will very rarely have a desire to try to help themselves.

We dont allow people with dementiasuch as our grandparents suffering from Alzheimers or dementiawe dont allow them to wander the streets and live on the streets.  Why then do we allow people that are suffering from psychosis, whether from schizophrenia or from chronic meth use to be on the streets? he said.

While an arrest after committing a crime or dealing with some type of intervention can be hard, it allows the drug-addicted to at least detox for some amount of time before going back on the street, he said.

They need some sort of structure to keep themselves healthy and clean. It used to be that addicts would be arrested every once in a while and would find themselves in jail or prison where they would have to detox and kick their addiction, at least for a period of time. Were not doing that now, he said.

You dont necessarily need to arrest addicts and put them in prison, but they do need the intervention so they can they can get clean and move on with their lives.

Drew Van Voorhis Follow Drew Van Voorhis is a California-based daily news reporter for The Epoch Times. He has been a journalist for four years, during which time he has broken several viral national news stories and has been interviewed for his work on both radio and internet shows.
BOSTON (AP)  Boston City Councilors Annissa Essaibi George and Michelle Wu clashed on everything from rent control to public transportation as they faced off Monday in a feisty, final televised debate of Bostons historic mayoral contest.

Essaibi George repeatedly faulted Wu on a range of topics, from Wus support of rent stabilization to her call for a fare-free public transportation system.

Wu, who has maintained a lead in a series of recent polls, defended those pledges while largely agreeing with Essaibi George on a handful of other issues, including the need for better, more affordable child care.

The contest will make history with the winner  whether Wu or Essaibi George  becoming the first woman and first person of color to be elected mayor in the citys long history. Until now, Boston has only elected white men to the top political office.

One flash point during the hourlong debate came during a discussion on the best way to respond to a tent city near the corner of Massachusetts Avenue and Melnea Cass Boulevard thats become the regions most visible symbol of the opioid epidemic, with many residents of the encampment struggling with addiction. On Monday, city officials began clearing the sprawling homeless camp.

Essaibi George has called on the city to rebuild a bridge to a city-owned island to re-open a substance use recovery center there. The bridge to Long Island was demolished in 2015 after it was deemed unsafe.

The neighboring city of Quincy has fought efforts to rebuild the bridge.

Im not going to walk away from a battle with Quincy, Essaibi George said. It makes me wildly crazy that we have not helped people in crisis.

Wu said rebuilding the bridge could take years and costs hundreds of millions  money she said would be better spent helping those struggling with addiction and homelessness immediately. She has suggested creating a ferry service to the island and rehabbing city-owned properties to serve to offer housing and treatment.

She said the city has to approach the problem through a public health lens.

We cannot wait to take immediate action, she said.

Both candidates said they would stick with a plan requiring all city workers be vaccinated and would continue a mask mandate in schools. They both also said they support pre-kindergarten education.

The two clashed on how best to address Boston's soaring housing costs.

Wu again said the city needs to introduce rent stabilization. Massachusetts voters backed a 1994 ballot question banning rent control statewide. Wu acknowledged she would need the help of state lawmakers to create a rent stabilization plan.

Across the city in every neighborhood it is clear that housing in on peoples minds, she said. The status quo isnt working.

Essaibi George said rent control is a failed policy and the city should focus on other programs like helping first-time homeowners come up with a down payment and bolstering public housing and affordable housing programs.

It has been tried and it has failed, she said of rent control. We talk about the status quo? Rent control is the status quo.

The two also disagreed on the best way to address the citys transportation and traffic woes.

Essaibi George again criticized one of Wus centerpiece proposals  a fare free public transit system. Wu said the proposal would help the citys economy, address climate change and help those who take the bus or subway to school or work.

Essaibi George said the cost of the proposal is staggering and would fall on the backs of Boston residents.

The hour-long debate came as Bostonians have already begun casting their ballots at early voting locations across the city.

Early voting runs through Friday. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 2.

The 36-year-old Wu, whose parents immigrated to the U.S. from Taiwan, grew up in Chicago and moved to Boston to attend Harvard University and Harvard Law School. Essaibi George, 47, a lifelong Boston resident, describes herself as a first-generation Arab-Polish American.

The citys previous elected mayor  Democrat Marty Walsh  stepped down earlier this year to become U.S. Secretary of Labor under President Joe Biden.

Walsh was replaced on an acting basis by Kim Janey, who was sworn in March 24 as Bostons first female and first Black mayor. Janey ran for mayor but failed to be one of the two top vote-getters during last months preliminary election.

The winning candidate will be sworn in Nov. 16, just two weeks after the election.
The film business is in a state of flux. Digital formats have allowed piracy to explode which means that its become harder to monetize content.

Add to it that audiences, accustomed to accessing everything online, have begun to feel as if content should be free, forgetting that they are often paying steep subscription fees and that creators deserve to get paid. And finally too many entertainment companies have been taken over by corporations happy to settle for mindless franchises that are guaranteed to play overseas.

So films that might appeal to audiences looking for more than a few thrills to go along with their bucket of popcorn are mostly made independently, which means that the filmmaker is generally forced to raise the funds herself to make the film. Luckily, despite these stiff odds, independent films continue to be made and continue to change minds and make profits.

These films often revolve around an issue that has disturbed the filmmaker, which is understandable  given the hurdles, a filmmaker needs a reason to keep going. And in the case of female filmmakers, that reason is often an injustice.

There are three recent films that focus in different ways on one of the most serious challenges facing young women coming of age in this country. That challenge is how to escape being sexually assaulted as you make your way through school and into the work force.

Before you turn the page, think about this. Over one in four young women will be assaulted before they graduate from college. That figure just astounds me and has prompted activists like Jackson Katz to take on the cause.

Katz has an exercise he does whenever he gives a talk. He asks the men in the audience to tell him what they do to avoid being sexually assaulted. Katz says theres always an uncomfortable silence in the room as the men look at one another  perhaps joking that they try to stay out of prison. But basically they have nothing to offer since they honestly dont give it a thought.

Katz then asks the women the same question and gets back dozens of suggestions from never going jogging at night to carrying our keys clenched between our fingers to checking the back seat before getting into a car parked in a parking lot to having a mans voice on the answering machine etc. etc.

So its a fact of life for women. And young women are particularly vulnerable, hence the slew of movies coming out about this problem.

Never Rarely Sometimes Always by Eliza Hittman (Beach Rats) is a naturalistic road movie about two high school girls who travel from their small town in a conservative part of Pennsylvania to Manhattan where one of them is going to try to get an abortion. And while this might seem to be a film about the difficulty of obtaining a legal abortion, thats really just the MacGuffin as Hitchcock would say  in other words the excuse driving the plot.

What the film is really about is how these young high school girls are confronted at every turn by men of every age trying to get their hands on them. From the skeevy boss in the grocery store where they work who insists on fondling their hands when they turn in their paper receipts to the stepdad whos routinely raping his now pregnant stepdaughter to the manipulative adolescent they meet on the bus who follows them into Port Authority and extracts sex from one of them when they run out of money for food.

These young women have been taught that they are victims and that their best shot is to work the system theyve been assigned.

Why should you watch this film? Because every moment rings true, the performances are terrific, and the filmmaker is rising in the ranks.

Moving on to college, we have Promising Young Woman, a thriller by Emerald Fennell about a woman taking revenge on the men who raped her best friend in college. And again, the rape is the MacGuffin. What were really watching is how whenever our heroine pretends to be lost or drunk or otherwise vulnerable, in comes a nice young man who tries to manipulate her into sex. Only in this case, she catches them at it, much to their shame and outrage. Date rape is what its called. Or gang rape in the case of the college incident. But lets just say she gets her revenge

Why should we watch this? Carey Mulligans performance is fantastic. Shes constantly pivoting as she sets up the men and women whod take advantage of her. And its exciting, watching her get even. And beautifully shot.

After graduation, we get our first job. And in the case of The Assistant by Kitty Green (Casting JonBenet), its at an independent film company run by an ogre who bears a remarkable resemblance to Harvey Weinstein, who was sentenced to 23 years in prison in a landmark #MeToo case. Once again we watch a male predator consume every young woman in his path. Its a merciless depiction of Weinstein and casting couch doesnt begin to capture the oppressive nature of a business that routinely demands sexual compliance  or a willingness to look the other way  for advancement.

Why watch this? For those interested in the film business, its a behind-the-scenes look at the company that brought you many of your favorite films. The writer-director worked for Weinstein himself and she takes you through her day in exquisite detail, allowing you to understand firsthand the pressures she faced as she watches yet another young woman head into his office, the door closing behind her. Theres also a brilliant performance by Matthew Macfadyen (Succession) as a truly venal human resources exec.

Ive been working on a film on this subject myself. About That Night follows an exuberant, ambitious young woman who wakes up after a raucous campus party to discover she may have been sexually assaulted. She has no memory of what happened and as she moves forward  seeking medical care, facing the boy in class, running the gauntlet on the Quad, gathering the courage to bring a complaint, defending herself at the hearing  we jump out and re-enact six different theories of what happened when she and the boy left the party and went down that long dark hall to the room where shes discovered hours later, unconscious and wounded.

What will make this film different and worth watching is that it addresses the all too common problem of he said/she said by showing how the truth gets lost as the perspectives multiply. Like Promising Young Woman, it will also have lots of movie charm as its a mystery and a courtroom drama and a romance driven by a crime.

Ill keep you posted as I move forward and welcome anyone whod like to become part of our community. Meanwhile, see these films by Eliza and Emerald and Kitty. And if youre someone affected by this issue or just want to learn more, please go to my website for resources and support: AboutThatNightTheFilm.com.

(Thank you so much for all your emails. Reach me at WelcomeToThePandemic@gmail.com. And find me on Twitter at @epagenyc or on Facebook at ElizabethPage.)
Submitted

The Edwardsville Rotary Club honored Edwardsville High School student Mackenzie Allen with the Student of the Month Award for the month of September. Allen was nominated by Edwardsville High School teacher, Nicole Heap.

Allen is the daughter of Mark and Jill Allen. She is a member of the National Honor Society. She is the President of the Sign Language Club and participates in the EHS Color Guard. Additionally, she volunteers in youth group and assists at local homeless shelters frequently. In her spare time, Mackenzie loves baking and teaching Sunday school for two to six year olds.
On Tuesday, a Pontoon Beach police officer was airlifted to a hospital in St. Louis after a shooting occurred Tuesday morning in Pontoon Beach. The shooting occurred just before 8 a.m. at a gas station near the intersection of Illinois 111 and I-270.

A representative for the Pontoon Beach Police Department had no comment when reached on Tuesday.
PONTOON BEACH  A Pontoon Beach police officer is dead following a gas station shooting Tuesday morning.

According to Illinois State Police, at 7:52 a.m. Tuesday Pontoon Beach Police Officer Tyler Timmins was at the Speedway gas station on Illinois 111 at Chain of Rocks Road in Pontoon Beach.

When Timmins approached a suspected stolen vehicle a male suspect began firing at the officer, according to state police. Timmins was shot and airlifted to a St. Louis hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

The suspect, who has not been named, was taken into custody at the scene, state police said.

The Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation - Zone 6 was requested by the Pontoon Beach Police Department to investigate the shooting. They released a statement Tuesday saying their investigation into Timmins death was in its infancy and more details would be released at a later time.

About 35 law enforcement vehicles and at least 40 officers were seen Tuesday morning at the gas station, which often is busy because of nearby truck traffic and related businesses. In addition to federal, state and county law enforcement, police from Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, St. Jacob, Roxana, South Roxana, Hartford and Wood River were at the site.

Crime tape surrounded the Speedway at 9:45 a.m. Tuesday. Employees and customers inside the store were detained for interviews, and arriving employees were denied access to the store.
You can find your client key on your subscription renewal statement or call us at the Mountain Mail at 719-539-6691.
Mattie Cook is marketing and public relations coordinator at Elizabethtown Community and Technical College. She can be reached at 270-706-8402 or mattie.cook@kctcs.edu.
During presentation of her abortion legislation last week, state Rep. Nancy Tate, R-Brandenburg, listens to a question from the panel.
Pablo Escobars cocaine hippos are people too: First of its kind ruling comes from U.S. federal court
Myanmar in spotlight as US joins Asean summit

ASEAN: Coup-hit Myanmars bloody crisis will take centre stage at a Southeast Asian summit today (Oct 26) that the countrys junta chief has been barred from attending, as international pressure mounts on the military regime.

politicsChinese

By AFP

Tuesday 26 October 2021, 09:17AM

Photo: AFP

The virtual gathering kicks off three days of meetings hosted by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean), with US President Joe Biden and Chinese and Russian leaders set to attend later in the week.

Myanmar will top the agenda of todays talks between regional leaders, with the country still in chaos following Februarys military takeover and subsequent deadly crackdown on dissent.

Facing calls to defuse the crisis, Asean, which includes Myanmar, has drawn up a roadmap aimed at restoring peace but there have been doubts over the juntas commitment to the plan.

Its refusal to let a special envoy meet ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi prompted the bloc last week to exclude junta chief Min Aung Hlaing - who seized power in the coup - from this weeks summits.

The coup snuffed out Myanmars short-lived experiment with democracy, with Nobel laureate Suu Kyi now facing a raft of charges in a junta court that could see her jailed for decades.

Min Aung Hlaings exclusion was an unprecedented snub from an organisation often criticised for being toothless, and was slammed by the junta as a breach of the blocs policy of non-interference in member states affairs.

The 10-member grouping has invited Chan Aye, director-general of the junta-appointed foreign affairs ministry, in the chiefs place - although it was not clear whether the regime would allow him to attend.

Asean divided

Aaron Connelly, a Southeast Asia expert from the International Institute for Strategic Studies, said the decision to bar the junta chief was tremendously significant.

It is the most significant sanction that Asean has ever handed to a member state, and it is in direct response to the non-compliance that we have seen from the (junta), he told a panel discussion yesterday.

But observers think it unlikely the bloc would go further, such as by suspending Myanmar, and see little chance of decisions at this weeks meetings that could prompt a change of course from the junta.

ASEAN is divided over the issue of Myanmar... Therell unlikely be any real progress, a Southeast Asian diplomat, speaking anonymously, told AFP.

While member states including Malaysia, Singapore and Indonesia have pushed for the bloc to take action in response to the takeover, others with more authoritarian governments have been less vocal.

Other issues likely to be discussed include the South China Sea - where Beijing and several Southeast Asian countries have overlapping claims - and the coronavirus pandemic, as much of the region emerges from an outbreak.

This years meetings are hosted by Brunei and are taking place online due to virus-related travel difficulties.

After the Southeast Asian leaders hold talks today, they will be joined for an expanded summit tomorrow, expected to include Biden and leaders from the wider region. It will be the first time in four years Washington will engage at the top level with the Asean bloc.
Region 8 Police join manhunt for gold shop robber

PHUKET: Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on a 71-year-old owner of a gold shop in Phuket Town on Saturday night (Oct 24).

crimeviolencepolice

By Eakkapop Thongtub

Tuesday 26 October 2021, 11:54AM

Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on Saturday night (Oct 24). Photo: Phuket City Police

Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on Saturday night (Oct 24). Photo: Phuket City Police

Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on Saturday night (Oct 24). Photo: Phuket City Police

Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on Saturday night (Oct 24). Photo: Phuket City Police

Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on Saturday night (Oct 24). Photo: Phuket City Police

Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on Saturday night (Oct 24). Photo: Phuket City Police

Region 8 Police have now joined the investigation and the manhunt for the robber wanted for the vicious attack on Saturday night (Oct 24). Photo: Phuket City Police

UPDATE: Region 8 Police Commander Region 8 Police Commander Pol Lt Gen Amphol Buarabporn held a press conference on Thursday, Oct 28, where he confirmed, corrected and clarified many details previously reported about the robbery and arrest. See story here.

Officers from Region 8 Police at the northern end of the island, led by Deputy Commander Region 8 Police Pol Maj Gen Wanchai Ekkapornphit, have joined the efforts to catch teh perpetrator, with Lt Col Somporn Boonma, Deputy Chief of Investigation at Region 8 Police spearheading the actual investigation.

Of note, Region 8 Police are responsible for overseeing Provincial Police operations in the seven Upper Southern Thailand provinces, including Phuket, Phang Nga, Krabi, Surat Thani (including Koh Samui) and Chumphon.

The manhunt was launched after 71-year-old gold shop owner Wangdee Inthawong was repeatedly struck heavily on the head by a piece of wood at his home in Phuket Town last Saturday night (Oct 23).

Police were notified of the attack at about 11:30pm.

The attack occurred at the Thong Thaweechai gold shop on Ranong Rd in Phuket Town, where husband-and-wife shop owners Mr Wangdee and his wife, Puangpen Sakkasemkrit, 65, lived upstairs.

When police arrived at the scene late last Saturday night, blood was smeared across the floor in the main room in the home, where Mr Wangdee had fought his attacker.

The couple were asleep in the bedroom on the second floor when they were woken by the robber, who threatened them and told the husband to open the safe on the ground floor, he said.

The robber had entered the home by climbing onto the roof of the house and breaking through the bathroom ceiling on the second floor.

Threatened by the stranger standing in his bedroom, Mr Wangdee refused to open the safe. A fight ensued and carried into the adjoining room, where the robber beat Mr Wangdee repeatedly with a piece of wood. Mr Wangdee suffered several head injuries in the attack.

After suffering a heavy beating and fearful for his wife also being beaten, Mr Wangdee finally relented and gave the key to the safe to the robber, who proceeded downstairs and stole many items of gold from in the safe. The robber fled through the second-floor side door of the shop, police have now confirmed.

Police have also now confirmed that the robber made off with gold items valued at more than B8 million.

Mr Wangdee told police that he believed the robber was a Myanmar man from listening to his accent when he spoke.

Mr Wangdee luckily escaped serious injury in the attack. He received first aid at the scene from rescue workers and was later taken to hospital for further treatment.

After police and first-responder rescue workers attended the scene late last Saturday night, investigators arrived last Sunday afternoon (Oct 24) to inspect the area behind the gold shop and check CCTV footage from the area. The gold shop is located near the busy market area on Ranong Rd, just west of the Suriyadej Circle.

Investigators reported that the robber fled the gold shop through a side door and is believed to have escaped past an abandoned building with overgrown vegetation behind the gold shop.

Officers found a red mask in the long grass, which they took for further investigation.

From CCTV footage inside the gold shop, officers noted that the robber was wearing black Aerosoft branded shoes, costing about B300.

The robber is also seen carrying the piece of wood and brandishing a large knife, which was not used in the fight with Mr Wangdee.

However, police have yet to reveal any substantial leads in catching the robber. The investigation and the manhunt continues.
HELENA, Mont. (AP)  A preliminary report on an Amtrak train derailment in Montana last month that killed three people and injured dozens more offered no clues about what triggered the accident, but said the trains emergency brakes were activated and that Amtrak estimated the damage at more than $22 million.

However, one attorney whose client is suing Amtrak and BNSF Railway said he wanted to learn more about the crash-worthiness of the train's observation car and an attorney for a crew member said she reported seeing a 30-foot dip along the railroad, where it appeared the track bed had given way.

The National Transportation Safety Board issued its preliminary report Tuesday on the Sept. 25 derailment of the westbound Empire Builder just west of Joplin, in north-central Montana.

It was mostly factual, saying there were 154 people on board and that 44 passengers and crew were taken to area hospitals with injuries. Passengers without serious injuries were bused to the nearby town of Chester, where residents provided food and other aid.

The train was traveling at between 75 and 78 mph (121 and 125 kph), just below the speed limit of 79 mph (127 kph) on that section of track when its emergency brakes were activated. The two locomotives and two railcars remained on the rails and eight cars derailed.

NTSB spokesman Keith Holloway said Tuesday it was still very early in the investigation and the agency typically takes one to two years to determine accident causes.

We are looking at everything, he said.

Rail experts have said the crash could have been caused by problems with the railroad or track, such as a rail that buckled under high heat, or the track itself giving way when the train passed over.

But they said investigators would consider all possibilities, including potential problems with the Empire Builders wheels or suspension system. Investigators also were examining if passengers were ejected from the train during the crash.

The investigation includes an examination of onboard video from the Amtrak train and from a freight train that had gone through the derailment area a little over an hour earlier, the NTSB has said.

The derailed train also had a black box that records everything happening on the train, according to the NTSB.

As the investigation continues, it will focus on track and engineering, equipment, survival factors, and passenger railcar crashworthiness, the NTSB said Tuesday.

Survivors described horrific scenes of people being maimed and killed as four cars  including an observation car with large windows  toppled and skidded down the tracks.

Killed in the accident were Margie and Don Vardahoe, a Georgia couple on a cross-country trip to mark their 50th wedding anniversary, and Zachariah Schneider, 28, a software developer from Illinois.

At least two dozen passengers have filed lawsuits over the derailment, including Schneiders wife, Rebecca Schneider. She said in the lawsuit that her husband had left her in the sleeping car and went to sit in the observation car, where he was horrifically maimed and killed.

The lawsuits against both Amtrak and BNSF allege negligence for not preventing the derailment and seek damages for injuries and psychological trauma to the people aboard the train.

Amtrak and BNSF have declined to comment on ongoing litigation.

Rebecca Schneider requested access to the Amtrak and BNSF onboard videos as part of her lawsuit, one of her attorneys said. That could reveal the cause of the crash before the NTSB issues its final report, attorney Robert Mongeluzzi said.

The lawsuit also will seek to determine the crash-worthiness of the observation car, which has large windows that wrap around to the ceiling and where all three fatalities occurred, he said.

The more open it is, the more likely people are to get thrown from the train, Mongeluzzi said.

Holloway, with the NTSB, said he could not confirm the three deaths occurred in the observation car.

An attorney for an Amtrak employee aboard the train said the female employee told federal investigators last week that following the derailment, she saw a 30 foot dip along the railroad, where material underneath the track thats known as the ballast had given way.

The employee allegedly talked to a BNSF Railway inspector after the crash, who verified a problem with the ballast and said there had been attempts to remediate it in the days leading up the crash, according to her attorney, Fred Bremseth.

Bremseth declined to give the name or position of the employee, citing her desire for privacy, but said she and other Amtrak employees he represents are preparing a possible lawsuit over the crash.

If what she said was correct, then obviously there was a failure to properly maintain the track, Bremseth said.

BNSF did not answer questions about the allegations and said any details about the investigation had to come from NTSB. Holloway declined comment on the claims.

Allan Zarembski, who directs the railroad safety program at the University of Delaware, said the NTSB usually wont name a cause in a preliminary report unless its something obvious.

Zarembski said photos he reviewed from the crash scene didnt show any obvious problem with the track.

The fact that two locomotives and two cars up front went through without derailing suggests there was a problem with one of the cars that derailed, or possibly a rail broke beneath one of those cars as it passed over, he said.

___

Brown reported from Billings, Mont.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The United States and China are stepping up their war of words over Taiwan in a long-simmering dispute that has significant implications for the power dynamic in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Amid a surge in Chinese military activity near the island that China regards as a renegade province and has vowed to reclaim by force if necessary, Washington and Beijing have launched new campaigns for global support for their respective positions, each using the stern and lofty language of sovereignty and international precedent. And neither is backing down.

While the disagreement over Taiwan isnt new and has long vexed relations between the countries, recent developments suggest the two are coming closer to confrontation. Last week, President Joe Biden set off alarm bells in Beijing by saying the U.S. has a firm commitment to help Taiwan defend itself in the event of a Chinese attack.

China protested and the Biden administration sought to play down the comments. White House, State Department and Pentagon officials all said the president did not mean to imply any changes in the U.S. one-China policy, which recognizes Beijing but allows informal relations and defense ties with Taipei.

The officials took pains to say that America's commitment to Taiwan remains steadfast but continues to be guided by a policy of strategic ambiguity over military-related specifics that falls short of a treaty-enshrined mutual defense pact. Since then, however, the administration has upped the ante on the diplomatic front.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday publicly urged other members of the United Nations to reject China's assertion of absolute sovereignty over Taiwan and join the U.S. in supporting Taipei's independent participation in international organizations related to transportation, health, climate change, culture and education.

As the international community faces an unprecedented number of complex and global issues, it is critical for all stakeholders to help address these problems, Blinken said in a statement. This includes the 24 million people who live in Taiwan. Taiwans meaningful participation in the UN system is not a political issue, but a pragmatic one.

He noted that Taiwan has been prevented from participating in meetings of the International Civil Aviation Organization despite being a major transit hub and the World Health Organization despite having fielded an effective response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Taiwans exclusion undermines the important work of the UN and its related bodies, all of which stand to benefit greatly from its contributions, Blinken said. That is why we encourage all UN Member States to join us in supporting Taiwans robust, meaningful participation throughout the UN system and in the international community.

State Department spokesman Ned Price declined to elaborate on what the administration would define as meaningful participation."

Blinken's statement came just five days after Biden's remarks about Taiwan's defense and only two days after the State Department announced that senior U.S. and Taiwanese officials met virtually to discuss expanding Taiwan's participation in UN and other international groupings.

In that Oct. 22 meeting, administration officials "reiterated the U.S. commitment to Taiwans meaningful participation at the World Health Organization and UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and discussed ways to highlight Taiwans ability to contribute to efforts on a wide range of issues, the State Department said.

Apart from complaining about Biden's initial comments, China reacted angrily to that discussion, slamming the administration for making irresponsible statements that encourage Taiwanese independence and demanding a halt to U.S. official contacts with the island's government.

Taiwans participation in activities of the international organizations must be handled in accordance with the one-China principle, foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said. Taiwans attempts to expand its so-called international space with foreign support are in nature seeking to expand the space for Taiwan independence and secession. It will surely end in failure.

The back-and-forth is playing out against a backdrop of increasing belligerence by both sides toward the other, even as they profess to have common interests on issues ranging from trade to climate to North Korea. Relations have plunged to new lows since nosediving under the Trump administration, which adopted a confrontational approach on trade, visas, diplomatic representation and educational exchanges.

While both former President Donald Trump and President Joe Biden have been firm in their opposition to Chinese activities in Tibet, Hong Kong, China's western Xinjiang region and the South China Sea, the Taiwan issue pre-dates most of those irritants.

China has recently upped its threat to bring Taiwan under its control by force if necessary by flying warplanes near the island and rehearsing beach landings.

China and Taiwan split during a civil war in 1949. The U.S. cut formal diplomatic relations with Taipei in 1979 in order to recognize Beijing. The U.S. does not openly contest Chinas claim to Taiwan, but is committed by law to ensure the island can defend itself and to treat all threats toward it as matters of grave concern.

Under President Xi Jinping, who is also Communist Party leader and head of the armed forces, China has been stepping up military, diplomatic and economic pressure on Taiwan. Over its National Day weekend at the beginning of the month, China sent a record 149 military aircraft southwest of Taiwan in strike group formations, prompting Taiwan to scramble aircraft and activate its air defense missile systems.

China has also recently held beach landing exercises on its side of the roughly 160-kilometer-wide (100-mile-wide) Taiwan Strait, which, like the aircraft incursions, it described as a warning to Tsai Ing-wens administration.

The U.S. has reinforced its support for Taiwan with military sales.
Salem, MO (65560)

Today

Some sun this morning with increasing clouds this afternoon. High 59F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Overcast. Slight chance of a rain shower. Low around 45F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
Today

On and off snow showers this morning. Peeks of sunshine later. High near 45F. Winds WNW at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 30%.

Tonight

A few passing clouds, otherwise generally clear. Low 24F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph.

Tomorrow

Intervals of clouds and sunshine. High 48F. Winds light and variable.
Montreal, CA (H4T1V6)

Today

Sunshine early followed by cloudy skies this afternoon. High 5C. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy with light rain developing after midnight. Low 2C. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 60%.
In Their Opinion: Rachael Rollins is a model US attorney appointment. Thats why the GOP wants to stop her
Today

Sun and clouds mixed. High 61F. Winds SSE at 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Partly cloudy skies this evening will give way to occasional showers overnight. Low 46F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.

Tomorrow

Rain showers in the morning with scattered thunderstorms arriving in the afternoon. High near 60F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 50%.
Kelsey Landis | The Telegraph

Built originally as St. Matthew's Catholic Church, the Unitarian Church purchased the site of the First Unitarian Church in Alton in 1854, building a new church after St. Matthew's burned down in 1853. In 1905, the church was once again consumed by fire, and afterwards the church as it currently stands was constructed.

Now, American Hauntings, based in Alton, hosts ghost hunts at First Unitarian as there are rumors the church is haunted by spirits, including that of Rev. Phillip Mercer, who died in the church on Nov. 20, 1934, according to an obituary in the Telegraph. There have been reports of voices and shadowy figures coming from the basement of the church since the reverend's death, according to Rivers and Routes.
HONOLULU (AP)  Some Native Hawaiians are objecting to President Joe Bidens choice for U.S. attorney in the 50th state, saying Clare Connors treated dozens of elders like criminals when her office prosecuted them for blocking a road while protesting the construction of a telescope in Hawaii.

She has acted aggressively towards the Hawaiian people during all of our stand for Mauna Kea, said Kealoha Pisciotta, one of the protest leaders.

Pisciotta and other Native Hawaiians who oppose the telescope believe the summit of Mauna Kea is sacred. They say building the Thirty Meter Telescope on the states tallest mountain would further desecrate a place already defiled by a dozen other observatories.

The 38 Native Hawaiian elders prosecuted for obstruction were in their 60s through 80s and many of them are community leaders. Four were found not guilty in August. One was found guilty last month after a separate trial, fined $500 and sentenced to one day in jail, which he won't have to serve if he avoids further violations for the next six months. The other cases are pending.

Pisciotta said she's concerned about Connors being named U.S. attorney because Native Hawaiians have been deprived of their land and their right to self-determination since the U.S.-backed overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893.

I think of her as a danger to many situations in Hawaii because she doesnt have to seem to have the compassion or the aloha that is needed considering our political situation, Pisciotta said.

Connors, Hawaiis state attorney general since 2019, said she is honored by the nomination but declined to comment further on the pending confirmation process.

However, Gary Yamashiroya, a spokesperson for Connors, said prosecutions of the protesters arose from a deliberate effort to block access to Mauna Kea for the purpose of preventing lawful construction of a project permitted by the Hawaii Supreme Court.

"Blocking a public road is a crime, and the Department of the Attorney General will prosecute such conduct consistent with its duty to uphold the rule of law, Yamashiroya said.

U.S. Sens. Mazie Hirono and Brian Schatz of Hawaii, both Democrats, recommended Connors to Biden. Spokespeople for both senators declined comment on the Native Hawaiian opposition to Connors' nomination, referring to a joint statement that they issued when the appointment was announced on Sept. 28.

That statement said she was exceptionally well-qualified and that they were confident she would serve the people of Hawaii well.

Gov. David Ige, a Democrat, and multiple prior U.S. attorneys for Hawaii have also praised her nomination, as have attorneys Connors worked with in private practice.

U.S. attorneys are the chief federal law enforcement officers in their districts.

The Thirty Meter Telescope would be one of the worlds largest optical telescopes. The $2.4 billion observatory is being planned by universities in California and Canada with participation from the governments of China, India and Japan.

The Thirty Meter Telescope International Observatory planned to begin construction in 2019, a year after the Hawaii Supreme Court ruled the project had a valid permit.

But protesters, who identify themselves as kia'i, or protectors of the mountain, began camping out on and near the lone road to the Mauna Kea's summit in July 2019.

Demonstrators remained even after the arrests of the elders, with their numbers at times reaching into the thousands.

By December 2019, the Thirty Meter Telescope consortium said it wasn't prepared to go ahead with construction because the state and Hawaii County hadn't shown they could provide safe, sustained access to Mauna Kea. TMT said it didn't want to put its workers, the people of Hawaii and protesters at risk. A small group of protesters remained until March 2020, when they left amid coronavirus concerns and confidence TMT wasn't going to build immediately.

The observatory has selected a site in Spain's Canary Islands as a backup site if it's not able to build in Hawaii. But the nonprofit organization has said it still prefers Mauna Kea, where the weather is among the world's best for viewing the skies.

___

Associated Press writer Jennifer Sinco Kelleher contributed to this report.
EDWARDSVILLE  An Edwardsville man has been charged Monday with possessing illegal incendiary shotgun ammunition.

Delon A. Echols, 30, of Edwardsville, was charged Oct. 25 with unlawful use of firearm projectiles, a Class 3 felony.

The case was presented by the Illinois State Police.

According to court documents, on Oct. 19 Echols allegedly was found to have Dragons Breath shotgun shells.

Dragons Breath shells are incendiary-effect ammunition consisting primarily of magnesium pellets or shards. When fired, they produce sparks and flame out to approximately 100 feet. The general public cannot legally possess this type of ammunition.

Bail was set at $25,000.

Other felony charges filed Oct. 25 by the Madison County States Attorneys Office include:

 Mark R. Baldwin Jr., 35, of Edwardsville, was charged with aggravated domestic battery, a Class 2 felony. The case was presented by the Alton Police Department. On Oct. 22 Baldwin allegedly strangled a household or family member. Bail was set at $50,000.

 Ausar B. Graham, 22, of St. Louis, was charged with aggravated battery, a Class 2 felony. The case was presented by the Granite City Police Department. On Oct. 24 Graham allegedly kicked a Granite City police officer in the face with his foot. Bail was set at $50,000.

 Jonathon E. Laws, 30, of Wood River, was charged with unlawful restraint and criminal trespass to a residence, both Class 4 felonies. The case was presented by the Wood River Police Department. On Oct. 24 Laws allegedly entered a residence in the 800 block of E. Acton in Wood River knowing someone was in the home, and pinned the victim to a bed. Bail was set at $50,000.
JERSEYVILLE  The Jersey County school district is getting $378,754 to add eight rural Illinois school to a network focused on opioid and substance abuse prevention, suicide prevention education, and expanded educational opportunities.

The funds through this grant will allow  schools to access courses  to connect students with teachers from different schools, Jersey schools Superintendent Brad Tuttle said. Students will now be able to take coursework not currently offered in their school with teachers or colleges across the state. These grant funds allow for the expansion of courses outside of current offerings and across school districts.
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP)  The initial autopsy on the remains of Brian Laundrie did not uncover a cause of his death and a more intensive examination will be done, a Laundrie family lawyer said Monday.

Laundrie's skeletal remains found in a Florida nature preserve were positively identified last week using dental records, according to the FBI. Laundrie was the subject of a manhunt for more than a month as investigators searched for clues in the slaying of his girlfriend, Gabby Petito, during their cross-country van trip together.

Steve Bertolino, the Laundries' attorney, said in text messages Monday that he was told by police the autopsy by the Sarasota County medical examiner did not produce concrete results on Brian Laundrie's death.

I was told the manner and cause of death were not determined and the remains were sent to an anthropologist (for) further evaluation, Bertolino said.

The medical examiner's office declined comment Monday, as did the FBI office in Denver that is leading the probe.

Eventually, Laundrie's remains will be cremated and no funeral is planned by his family, Bertolino said.

No information has yet been released on what investigators found in a backpack and notebook found with Laundrie's remains.

Petito, 22, was discovered slain last month on the edge of Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming, one of the places the young couple had visited on the trip they documented through social media videos.

An autopsy in Wyoming concluded Petito died by strangulation and that it was a homicide. Laundrie, 23, was listed as a person of interest in her killing but he was charged only with fraudulent use of a debit card that was not his.

His remains were found in a nature preserve not far from his family's home in North Port, Florida, where both he and Petito had been living. Both were originally from Long Island, New York.

Laundrie returned home alone Sept. 1 from his trip with Petito. Her body was found Sept. 19 in the Wyoming park and authorities say it had been there for about a month.

Laundrie told his parents Sept. 13 he was headed to the Carlton Reserve park in Sarasota County. That was the last publicly known contact anyone had with him.
PONTOON BEACH  A Pontoon Beach police officer is dead following a gas station shooting Tuesday morning.

According to Illinois State Police, at 7:52 a.m. Tuesday Pontoon Beach Police Officer Tyler Timmins was at the Speedway gas station on Illinois 111 at Chain of Rocks Road in Pontoon Beach.

When Timmins approached a suspected stolen vehicle a male suspect began firing at the officer, according to state police. Timmins was shot and airlifted to a St. Louis hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

The suspect, who has not been named, was taken into custody at the scene, state police said.

Timmins, 36, joined the Pontoon Beach Police Department in April 2020. During his 14-year career he also served with police departments in Roxana, Hartford and Worden.

The Illinois State Police Division of Criminal Investigation - Zone 6 was requested by the Pontoon Beach Police Department to investigate the shooting. They released a statement Tuesday saying their investigation into Timmins death was in its infancy and more details would be released at a later time.

About 35 law enforcement vehicles and at least 40 officers were seen Tuesday morning at the gas station, which often is busy because of nearby truck traffic and related businesses. In addition to federal, state and county law enforcement, police from Edwardsville, Glen Carbon, St. Jacob, Roxana, South Roxana, Hartford and Wood River were at the site.

Crime tape surrounded the Speedway at 9:45 a.m. Tuesday. Employees and customers inside the store were detained for interviews, and arriving employees were denied access to the store.
ALTON  The Sierra Club Piasa Palisades Group will host Prescribed Fire and the Ecology of the Great Rivers Area as part of their virtual speaker series via Zoom 6-7 pm. on Tuesday, Nov. 9.

Dr. John Lovseth of Principia College and Brent Masiero, PPG ExCom Member and Director of the Great Rivers Prescribed Burn Association, will share research and insight into the role that human-controlled fire played in shaping the landscape of the Great Rivers area.
Jack C. Taylor, 86, formerly of Corbin, Kentucky, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 7, 2021. Jack will always be known as a hardworking and caring family man. He was an exceptional athlete, receiving 1954, high school All-State Honors in both football and basketball by the Courier-J
SAM MONTALTO, Stonington, Boys Soccer, Senior; Montalto scored three goals including the 100th of his career in the Bears 4-0 victory over Plainville in the Class M state tournament. Montalto, who missed the first three games of the season, has 32 goals and nine assists this season.

GIRLS & BOYS Soccer Team, Chariho; It wouldnt be fair to single out a player from either team, both of which captured Division II titles over the weekend of Nov. 12. The girls tied their game with Prout with 1:02 left in regulation and prevailed in penalty kicks. The boys scored the winning goal in the final two minutes of the second overtime to beat North Smithfield.

ZACK TUCK, Westerly, Football; Tuck rushed for 150 yards on 29 carries in a loss to unbeaten St. Raphael in the Division II semifinals. Tuck has rushed for 1,533 yards and scored 19 touchdowns this season for the 7-3 Bulldogs.

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Many Britons had to ditch foreign holidays due to the pandemic and instead descended on mass to the UK's tourist hotspots.

But with the travel 'red list' being cut down to just a handful of destinations, going abroad is now easier than it has been for months.

Those seeking to buy a holiday let in the UK have faced tough competition since 'staycations' became the norm, and prices were pushed up to new highs in a blisteringly hot market.

The market for holiday lets in the UK has been extremely busy over the past year and a half, as the pandemic forced holidaymakers to take 'staycations' rather than heading abroad

According to analysis from estate agent Jackson Stops, there has been an average 17 buyers per countryside property over the last 12 months, while coastal locations have been even more in demand, with an average of 22 buyers competing for each property that hits the market.

But with foreign trips back on the menu, and the colder weather dampening the appetite for UK breaks, could this autumn and winter be an opportunity for would-be holiday let owners to buy more cheaply and with fewer delays?

One of the pinch points in the market over the past year has been speculative buyers, who made enquiries with agents and brokers out of curiosity and without any intention to make a purchase - delaying the whole process for serious applicants.

In some cases this gave sellers a false sense that there was more interest in their property than there really was, giving them an excuse to push up prices even further.

Data from specialist holiday let mortgage broker, Holiday Cottage Mortgages, saw enquiries increase by a staggering 108 per cent between August 2019 and 2020.

But at the height of the frenzy it August 2020, its data showed that almost three in five mortgage assessments requested were from buyers that were 'purely browsing'.

Deciphering between those who are serious about buying and those who are browsing has been extremely difficult at times

Many of these, it said, had enjoyed a staycation in a UK destination and got excited about the idea of owning a holiday let there  without thinking through all the costs and responsibilities renting out a property brings.

Leigh Glazebrook, office head at Knight Frank's Stow-on-the-Wold office in the Cotswolds said: 'Deciphering between those who are serious about buying and those who are browsing has been extremely difficult at times, particularly when you are trying to be efficient with time.'

But Holiday Cottage Mortgages says that now, the number of 'browsers' has reduced by nearly half and 66 per cent of those who made enquiries with them last month were 'actively pursuing' a holiday let.

Other brokers report that demand has calmed down from its summer peak, which is good news for those looking to buy.

'The number of enquires we have received for holiday let mortgages has fallen rapidly over the past few months,' says Joshua Gerstler, chartered financial planner at The Orchard Practice.

'With people now able to travel overseas again, perhaps the shine has been taken off this sector.'

Purchasing a holiday let out of season in October, November or December, when the market is less busy, can mean buyers get a better deal according to property experts

While holiday lets in attractive locations are still very appealing, renewed interest in foreign travel and the start of the off-season means there are bargains to be had for savvy buyers.

'There will be discounts out there which may be worth considering, particularly if investors are looking to purchase out of season in October or November,' says Matt Kelly, buy-to-let product specialist at mortgage lender Together.

This is Money asked property experts for their tips on saving money when buying a holiday let in the UK.

How to cut costs when buying a holiday let

1. Buy in the off-season

Andrew Soye, founder of Holiday Cottage Mortgages, says that buyers will have the least competition if they start their search in November or December.

He says: 'Historically we tend to see good levels in September and October. Whilst it is difficult to say for certain why this is, it is likely to be as a result of people being more focussed on going on holiday and having a break during the summer.

'Then when autumn comes, they get back into 'work mode' and execute plans.

'We see this pattern following throughout the year too, as we see lower levels in November and December when people's attention shifts to Christmas planning.'

Planning permission is not required to use a home as a holiday let in most cases, so most homes on the open market can technically be converted into one.

However, leasehold properties may have covenants which ban sub-letting, and some local councils have put restrictions in place regarding short-term lets on websites such as Airbnb, so it is essential to check.

In addition, homes on holiday parks may have restrictions around when in the year the property can be occupied, with some sites closing for the winter.

Busiest markets These locations have the largest amount of buyers chasing one property Chester (also covering north Wales) 76:1 Bridport (Dorset) 29:1 Sherborne (Somerset) 26:1 Oxted (Surrey) 26:1 Truro (Cornwall) 26:1 Chipping Campden (Cotswolds) 22:1 Burford (Cotswolds) 20:1 Source: Jackson Stops

2. Avoid the very busiest markets

Well-trodden holiday destinations have seen unprecedented levels of demand over the past year or so.

By looking at fringe locations of popular towns and villages, or areas that are less well-known, holiday let buyers can dodge some of the competition and potentially pick up a cheaper home.

However, they will want to ensure that their property is still within easy reach of the attractions that make the area desirable, whether that is a picturesque beach or a scenic walking route.

This will be essential if they want to keep their bookings calendar full.

Nick Leeming, chairman of estate agent Jackson Stops, says: Demand remains acute in countryside and coastal locations, and this is even more noticeable as stock has become depleted in desirable locations following the frenetic market activity of the last 18 months.

'In the West Country, we continue to see demand spill over into locations previously reserved for those that live and work in the area.

'The villages surrounding Sherborne, for example, are continuing to attract buyers, in particular younger families, who are keen to enjoy more nature-based activities.'

3. Find a property with year-round appeal

While some holiday let buyers use their bolthole mainly for themselves and consider income from the odd week renting it out as a bonus, those who view their property as a business will consider making a good rental profit very important.

A strong first year of bookings can help offset the outlay of buying the property, and key to this is keeping demand high all year round.

Choosing a property that is just as desirable for a cosy winter getaway as it is a summer holiday will help to boost their income.

Being close to all-weather or indoor activities can help with this. Dale Anderson, managing director of property consultancy Fabrik Invest, suggests that buyers may want to consider a property on a holiday park  though they should check out any service charges first as these can be costly.

'While typical holiday apartments may slow down as we decide to go on holidays to Spain, Greece and the like, the holiday park model  with lodges and a range of facilities for wellbeing and outdoor living  is set to continue to grow at pace, serving people in search of weekend getaways, city breaks and countryside landscapes,' he says.

Hot property: Choosing a holiday home that is as suited to winter getaways as summer breaks can help to keep rental income going strong throughout the year

4. Take on a restoration project

Restoring a property that is in need of some TLC is another way to buy a holiday let more cheaply.

Says Kelly: 'Buyers may be able to get an even better deal by finding a property which is in a poorer condition and needs restorative or structural work.

'Holiday lets located in seaside towns, for example, tend to be more susceptible to damage caused by floods, salt air corrosion, storms and rotting wood.

However, buyers would be wise to check that the costs of both doing the initial work, and keeping it in good condition in the long term, will not eat in to their rental returns too much.

It helps if the buyer has the know-how to do some of the work themselves  and they should also make sure they have the time to complete it before the lucrative summer season commences.

'Anyone hoping to scoop a post-pandemic bargain by investing in a doer-upper would be wise to measure the upfront cost against the yearly upkeep,' Kelly adds.

For holiday let landlords looking to take on a renovation project, it will be better for all the work to be completed in the off-season, so the property is ready to be listed on the holiday let market from spring onwards.

'Those looking to do this now would have to bear in mind that theyd miss out on the lucrative Christmas and New Year period for holiday lettings, whereas a ready-made property would not require that consideration.'

Mortgage rates - including those on second homes - could be on the rise if the Bank of England increases its base rate from its current level of 0.1 %, as is predicted later this year

5. Take advantage of cheap mortgage rates - while you still can

A mainstream residential mortgage can't be used on a property that is rented out.

Even if they intend to spend a lot of time staying there themselves, holiday home buyers who don't have the money to buy in cash will need to get a specialist holiday let mortgage.

They will also need to pay a 3 per cent stamp duty surcharge, as the property is classed as a second home.

Holiday let mortgages have historically been tricky to get, as they are not offered by the great majority of mainstream lenders.

While that is still the case, the range of holiday let mortgages has widened significantly. Options have more than doubled since August 2020 and there are now 186 options available compared to just 74, according to MoneyFacts.co.uk.

And the increased competition for holiday lets has driven down rates across the past year, meaning those buying now could get a cheaper deal than those in the initial wave of buyers in summer 2020.

But they will need to act quickly, as the widely predicted rise in the Bank of England's base rate at the end of the year could begin to drive them back up  one more reason why snapping up a holiday let this winter could be a shrewd move.

Anderson says: For short term let holiday apartments, investors can currently benefit from record low borrowing rates, though likely not for long, as I expect rates may rise soon.'

Rates are now available as low as 3.5 per cent, though this is still much higher than many residential mortgages  so it could be cheaper to remortgage your main home and use the equity from that to buy the holiday home in cash.
The owner of Cafe Rouge has announced plans to invest over 50million in the next three years expanding its restaurant estate and creating over 1,000 more jobs.

Big Table Group said it intends to grow its current UK portfolio by about a third to 200 by opening 50 more outlets, including 35 belonging to its Latin American-themed dining chain Las Iguanas.

The company, which also owns the Bella Italia group of restaurants, said trade in its Las Iguanas outlets had not just been strong before the Covid-19 pandemic erupted but had 'exceeded all expectations' following their reopening this year.

Busy: Big Table said trade in its Las Iguanas outlets had not just been strong before the Covid-19 pandemic erupted but had 'exceeded all expectations' following their reopening this year

Having recently opened an establishment in Plymouth last week, the firm said the 35 new sites would be located in other major towns and cities across the UK, with one opening planned for later this year in Southampton.

Another two are set to be situated at Center Parcs sites following the group's recent extension to its tie-up with the holiday resort company.

It comes after Big Table hired former KFC executive Paul Stokes as the group's head of acquisitions to lead its growth strategy.

Alan Morgan, the company's chief executive, said the Las Iguanas brand 'has consistently proven to be an extremely popular choice with consumers, and now is the perfect time to grow the brand'.

In addition, Big Table plans to follow up its dark kitchen in London with one in Birmingham that will deliver meals to customers from Las Iguanas, Cafe Rouge or Bella Italia, and has begun a trial of an Italian-inspired restaurant brand called Amalfi.

The London-based firm, which claims to be the 'best capitalised restaurant group in the UK,' further declared today that it would plough 19million towards refurbishing its restaurants, including all its Bella Italia sites and 70 significant sites.

French style: As well as Las Iguanas and Bella Italia, Cafe Rouge is owned by Big Table Group

Big Table Group changed its name from the Casual Dining Group (CDG) during the summer of last year after it was snapped up by private equity firm Epiris following its collapse into administration.

The coronavirus has caused a very tough period for the restaurant industry as non-essential businesses like hospitality venues were forced to shut their doors to seated customers as part of efforts to try and slow the spread of the pandemic.

During the times when hospitality venues have been permitted to reopen, they have faced further pressures, including capacity limits, lower tourism levels, people working from home, and for a month this year, bans on indoor seating.

But even before the crisis, the mid-market dining sector had felt significant pressure for years due to rising raw material costs, Brexit-related uncertainty, stiff competition within the industry and weaker sales.

As a consequence of all these factors, the hospitality sector has been one of the most affected by job losses and loss of business in the last 19 months.

Since restrictions were all lifted, pent-up demand has given a much-needed boost to pubs, restaurants and bars, though suburban, rural and towns have done a lot better than establishments based in city centres.

'We are excited about the growth prospects of The Big Table,' said Alex Fortescue, managing partner at Epiris.

'With strong recovery in the sector, we are ready to fund additional pipeline opportunities and look forward to expanding our brands.'
A summer staycation bonanza has enabled Premier Inn's owner to record a forecast-beating recovery and a much lower half-year loss.

Whitbread made a statutory pre-tax loss of 19.3million in the six months to 26 August, compared to a whopping 724.7million during the same time last year, as revenues climbed by over 400million.

It credited high demand for holidaying in seaside and tourist destinations, and steady business from tradespeople for allowing sales at its Premier Inn hotels to outperform the wider UK midscale and economy hotel market by a dozen percentage points.

Staycation: Whitbread said sales at its Premier Inn hotels outperformed the wider UK midscale and economy hotel market by a dozen percentage points

Alison Brittain, the firm's chief executive, noted that regional hotel trade outpaced its pre-pandemic levels for the last six of the 26 week reporting period, adding that this performance has continued into the second half of the financial year.

However, coronavirus restrictions such as the ban on overnight leisure stays and indoor dining until mid-May still caused significant harm to the business, whose statutory revenues were down 39 per cent to 661.6million on 2019 levels.

Its food and beverage sales plunged by over half as restrictions on its dining establishments, including the Beefeater and Brewers Fayre restaurant chains, did not entirely lift until the latter half of July.

The lack of international travel also severely damaged trade at its outlets in London, which are more heavily reliant on foreign tourists, as did the widespread labour shortages affecting the hospitality industry.

Much of this shortage is down to the rebound in demand, but also the UK's departure from the European Union, Eastern European workers returning to their home countries, and former staff find work in better-paid sectors.

Brittain said: 'The operating environment during the summer and into autumn has been challenging largely as a result of our very high occupancy levels, market-wide supply chain issues and a tighter labour supply in the hospitality sector.'

Downturn: Whitbread's food and beverage sales plunged by over half as restrictions on its dining establishments did not entirely lift until late July

To try to attract and retain staff, Whitbread has raised pay rates at a cost of at least 12million this year, and is planning a one-off summer retention bonus for hotel and restaurant workers worth around 10million next year.

At some point in 2022, though, the company expects its like-for-like revenue per average room - a standard measure in the hotel sector - to have fully recovered.

The FTSE 100 company said the end of all coronavirus restrictions 'bodes well for ongoing leisure demand,' while sales from office-based business customers are getting better.

It added that occupancy rates in the seven weeks to mid-October were at more than 80 per cent of their pre-Covid levels, while accommodation purchases were 7.9 per cent higher.

Shortage issues: The lack of international travel severely damaged trade at Premier Inn's outlets in London, which are more heavily reliant on foreign tourists

Whitbread does expect the upcoming months to be a weak selling period, and is concerned that the recent rise of VAT on hospitality products and services from 5 per cent to 12.5 per cent will impede this recovery.

Yet the firm plans to expand its UK estate by around 3,500 rooms this year against previous guidance of between 2,000 and 3,000, and has more than 8,500 rooms in its pipeline in Germany.

'Our strong balance sheet enables us to continue investing in hotel growth in both the UK and Germany and in commercial initiatives and refurbishments, strengthening our market position and driving further market share gains,' Brittain remarked.

Russ Mould, an investment analyst at AJ Bell, said: 'Some kind of rebound from the previous Covid-impacted performance was inevitable but what is more telling is that the company is recovering ahead of the wider market.

'This suggests the Premier Inn brand is resonating with domestic leisure travellers and that the company is taking market share. The exit of weaker peers from the market and constrained investment at some of its rivals should further bolster Whitbreads position.'

Shares in Whitbread closed trading 4.4 per cent higher at 32.93 on Tuesday, making it one of the top ten risers on the FTSE 350.
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Carolyn Sue Bryant Ellis, 78, of Fort Walton Beach, FL, passed away on Sunday, October 24, 2021 at Somerby of Santa Rosa Beach, FL. Born March 15, 1943, at Dr. Daniel's Hospital in Pavo, Georgia, Carolyn was the youngest of nine children born to Franklin and Marie (Dailey) Bryant, of Route 2
ALBANY - The American Institute of Manufacturing Photonics at Albany Nanotech has just secured $321 million in funding that will support it over the next seven years.

AIM Photonics, which also has operations in Rochester, was launched in 2015 as a $610 million federal manufacturing lab focused on developing computer chips that run on light instead of electrons or integrated lasers.

At that time, the Department of Defense awarded AIM Photonics a $110 million grant, and New York agreed to provide $250 million in funding. Other funds came from businesses, states and academic institutions that became members of AIM.

This new deal with the Defense Department provides $165 million from the Air Force Research Laboratory and $156 million from corporate and government sources, including $60 million previously awarded by New York.

Photonics opens up a new frontier for semiconductors - the materials used to make computer chips - helping advance technologies such as lidar, which uses light to make 3D images of the ground; making faster telecommunications equipment, and improved sensors as well as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

The AIM Photonics funding package is one of the most significant high-tech agreements announced to date by Gov. Kathy Hochul. The institute was created under former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who resigned in August in a workplace sexual harassment scandal.

"Under my administration, New York will always do everything possible to support our brightest minds as they push the boundaries of what is possible and with this funding in hand, we are now better able to ensure New York and the nation will remain at the forefront in the world of technological innovation, research and development," Hochul said in a statement.

The Defense Department funds nine such manufacturing institutes designed to create domestic supply chains for key technologies used by the military. The labs also serve commercial customers who place orders for the chips, which are made at Albany Nanotech and then shipped to Rochester for final assembly.

Tod Laursen, acting president of SUNY Polytechnic Institute, which is located at Albany Nanotech, serves as chair of the AIM Photonics Leadership Council.

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"We are uniquely positioned to provide a proven, advanced manufacturing environment that is vital for the evolution of integrated photonics," Laursen said.




TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP)  Children as young as 3 will start receiving COVID-19 vaccines in China, where 76% of the population has been fully vaccinated and authorities are maintaining a zero-tolerance policy toward outbreaks.

China becomes one of the very few countries in the world to start vaccinating children that young against the virus. Cuba, for one, has begun a vaccine drive for children as young as 2. The U.S. and many European countries allow COVID-19 shots down to age 12, though the U.S. is moving quickly toward opening vaccinations to 5- to 11-year-olds.

Local city and provincial level governments in at least five Chinese provinces issued notices in recent days announcing that children ages 3 to 11 will be required to get their vaccinations.

The expansion of the vaccination campaign comes as parts of China take new clampdown measures to try to stamp out small outbreaks. Gansu, a northwestern province heavily dependent on tourism, closed all tourist sites Monday after finding new COVID-19 cases. Residents in parts of Inner Mongolia have been ordered to stay indoors because of an outbreak there.

The National Health Commission reported that 35 new cases of local transmission had been detected over the past 24 hours, four of them in Gansu. An additional 19 cases were found in the Inner Mongolia region, with others scattered around the country.

China has employed lockdowns, quarantines and compulsory testing for the virus throughout the pandemic and has largely stamped out cases of local infection while fully vaccinating 1.07 billion people out of a population of 1.4 billion.

In particular, the government is concerned about the spread of the more contagious delta variant by travelers and about having a largely vaccinated public ahead of the Beijing Olympics in February. Overseas spectators already have been banned from the Winter Games, and participants will have to stay in a bubble separating them from people outside.

China's most widely used vaccines, from Sinopharm and Sinovac, have shown efficacy in preventing severe disease and transmission of the virus, based on public data. But the protection they offer against the delta variant has not been answered definitively, although officials say they remain protective.

Hubei, Fujian and Hainan provinces all issued provincial level notices alerting new vaccination requirements, while individual cities in Zhejiang province and Hunan province have also issued similar announcements.

China in June had approved two vaccines  Sinopharm's from the Beijing Institute of Biological Products and Sinovac  for children ages 3 to 17, but it has only been vaccinating those 12 and older. In August, regulators approved another, Sinopharm's from the Wuhan Institute of Biological Products.

After the vaccines received domestic approval for children in China, foreign governments began giving the shots to children in their own countries. Cambodia uses both Sinovac and Sinopharms shots in children 6 to 11. Regulators in Chile approved Sinovac for children as young as 6. In Argentina, regulators approved the Sinopharm vaccine for children as young as age 3.

Many developing countries left out of the race to get shots from Western pharmaceutical companies like Pfizer and Moderna bought Chinese vaccines. China has shipped more than 1.2 billion doses as of September, according to its Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

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Even with widespread domestic and global use, not every parent is reassured about the vaccine, citing less publicly available data on the shots.

Wang Lu, who lives in the southern city of Fuzhou in Fujian province, said she isnt particularly rushing to get her 3-year-old son vaccinated. Im just not very clear on the vaccines safety profile, so I dont really want to get him vaccinated, at the very least, I dont want to be the first, Wang said.

Sinovac started an efficacy trial with 14,000 child participants across multiple countries in September. Its approval in China was based on smaller phase 1 and phase 2 trials. Sinopharms Beijing shot was also approved based on smaller phase 1 and phase 2 trials. These were published later in peer-reviewed journals.

Other parents said they werent concerned, given that many other people had already gotten the shot.

Wu Cong, a mom of a 7-year old, said her daughters school in Shanghai hadnt yet notified them of any vaccinations.

I think this isnt too different from the flu vaccine, theres already been so many people vaccinated, so I dont have too many worries, said Wu.

___

Associated Press researcher Chen Si in Shanghai contributed to this report.
She started YouTubing with a few simple videos chronicling shenanigans with her siblings, thrifting haul finds and the occasional faceplant into the sand.

Three years later, Ashley Alexander has made enough money vlogging  video blogging  to pay her rent in New York City, her siblings college debt and mothers mortgage.

Alexander is a social media influencer. The 22-year-old Albany native is making a lush living taking audiences behind the lens of her not-so-typical life. She started as a small-time YouTuber but garnered a following of just over 1 million subscribers for her channel, Ur Mom Ashley.

She has since dabbled into Instagram and TikTok influencing and started a podcast.

It's crazy to me now that that can be my full-time job, she said. What's really most important to me is really just connecting with other people.

Social media influencing is a marketing strategy as old as the internet. The mechanisms become consumed by young people carving out a name for themselves in recent years over various platforms. What seems like a rare success has become a somewhat common and lucrative venture for some.

Turning influencing into a job

Alexander spends half of the day filming her every move, talking to people about her thoughts. Shes usually held up in a cafe glued to her computer editing together footage with snazzy jump cuts, subtitles and popping graphics the rest of the day.

Before becoming a full-fledged influencer, she was a Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute graduate en route to becoming a doctor. It wasnt until she struck major views on a video showing her VANS sneaker collection that she considered making the shift to career vlogging.

At the start of it all, she would check her analytics daily to see how many people were watching, but she said it got to her head. Now, she only checks her numbers every week or so and has focused on staying consistent with her posts, which she said was key to her success.

Once she drowned out the figures and honed in on posting honest, quality videos once or twice a week, she watched her channel grow into a profit-making hustle. She said most influencers make a ball park profit of six figures but opted not to disclose her specific earnings.

Provided photo

How vlogging drums up six figures

As influencers become more popular they gain a following large enough that platforms including YouTube, Instagram and TikTok will start paying them.

Barry Wygel, a creative services manager at Baker Public Relations, said the social media giants pay influencers based on an algorithm. Once the individual hits a certain amount of page views they qualify for monetary benefits, he explained.

Many of these videos have revenue-providing ads in them depending on how long they are. Google AdSense will reward the influencer a percentage from the number of people who view those ads once the viewing threshold is met.

In a previous vlog, Alexander let her viewers in on how YouTubes metrics translate into profits. First, YouTubers have to attain either 1,000 subscribers or 4,000 watch hours to become monetized. It took her about 9 months to reach that point.

From there, the Google Adsense kicks in, cutting influencers a monthly check as long as their ad views convert into a minimum of $100. If the influencer makes less than $100, Google withholds their check until they meet the mark, she said.

But ads, according to Alexander, are just one piece of the pie. She said influencers make more from sponsorships than ads. Sponsors, usually businesses, will pay an influencer to debut a product or talk about their company in a post.

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Chris Fasano, Overit Medias chief growth officer who has a neuroscience background, said its all about being relatable. You might be wondering how a young person is making thousands just from a video documenting what their apartment looks like or a trip to the ice cream parlor, but theyre all commonplace things people understand and sponsors can thrive on.

It's somebody like me using the product, talking about how great it works, and psychologically that's a lot more comforting and it's a lot less salesy, and I'm much more likely to buy that way, he said. That's really where influencers make their money.

Its an old but fruitful marketing trick. Since social media sites arent regulated, Fasano believes those who have a platform have no limit. These days, you can get paid for just procuring enough followers.

Influencings gray areas

Amassing audiences comes power and gray areas, though. Alexander said the word influencer is, in her eyes, "scary."

My purpose is just to try to make other people happy and try to share aspects of my life, whether they're good or bad, and be vulnerable with other people, she said.

Alexanders vlogs seem wholesome enough. She chronicles quality time with her family making viral recipes and talking trends and culture. Her goal is to spread positivity online and doing so means broadcasting responsibly because so many people are listening.

Fasano noted that there are several aspects to influencing. Theres simple product influencing where they try to get a person to invest in something. For example, Alexander started a jewelry line and in one video showcases the merchandise with her viewers. In other posts she subliminally markets the company by wearing its staple necklace, a steel and pearl chain clenching onto a heart pendant.

Alexander said influencers generally stick to trending topics that people would search the web for as a way to gain more traction.

She does, however, find herself questioning whether or not YouTube will last. Either way she'll sustain her channel as long as possible.

"I do feel like longform video probably will always be around," she said. "So I do anticipate on doing it, whether it's on YouTube, or if it's another platform that appears later down the line."
ALBANY  U.S. Rep. Lee Zeldin took aim at Stony Brook University Hospital on Tuesday for issuing letters to nurses and other medical professionals who declined to be vaccinated that accuse those employees of misconduct, insubordination and dereliction of duties.

The State University of New York's choice of incendiary language in the termination letters was first reported Oct. 9 by the Times Union.

The sharply worded termination letters followed a vaccination mandate imposed by Gov. Kathy Hochul's administration on health care workers that led to thousands of workers, including doctors and nurses, facing termination at a time when hospitals have been cutting services, closing beds and, in some instances, diverting patients to other facilities.

Zeldin, a Republican running for governor next year, recently wrote a letter to Stony Brook Medicine CEO Carol A. Gomes complaining about the practice. He issued a statement Tuesday, saying, "it's so incredibly disappointing to see their employees treated this way with such blatant disrespect and lack of concern and empathy. We shouldnt be firing these essential workers; we should be thanking them for all theyve done for our communities."

In a response to Zeldin's complaint, Gomes wrote a letter to him dated Friday characterizing the hospital's healthcare workers as "heroes in every sense of the word and we deeply appreciate their dedication, compassion and commitment."

Gomes told Zeldin that 97.9 percent of Stony Brook Medicine's employees have been fully vaccinated. For those workers who have declined to be vaccinated against COVID-19, she said, "we are moving forward per applicable collective bargaining agreements and protocols, including the notices you referenced."

Nurses and other licensed professionals who received the termination notices from SUNY said they fear repercussions from the state Education Department that regulates their licenses. Labor union leaders said the missives stand in contrast to similar disciplinary notices issued by private hospitals.

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At Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital in Binghamton, for instance, nurses and other staff were issued suspension notices last week stating: "(S)ince our records show you are not compliant with New Yorks state mandate, you will be placed on suspension," adding, "continued failure to comply will be deemed voluntary resignation of employment."

Still, that hospital's characterization of the employees' resignations as "voluntary" also sets up the case for those workers to be denied unemployment claims.

The vaccination mandate has spurred a series of legal challenges to the state Department of Health's controversial vaccination mandate that compelled hospitals and other medical facilities  including state-run hospitals and nursing homes  to suspend or terminate health care professionals who refused to be vaccinated.
PARIS (AP)  In a move with potential ramifications for other European museums, France is displaying 26 looted colonial-era artifacts for one last time before returning them to Benin  a decision authorities in the West African country described as historic.

The wooden anthropomorphic statues, royal thrones and sacred altars were pilfered by the French army 129 years ago. The French will have a final glimpse of the objects, from the collection known as the Abomey Treasures, in the Musee du quai BranlyJacques Chirac from Tuesday through Sunday.

Calixte Biah, curator of the Museum of History of Ouidah, Benin, where the artefacts will first be exhibited, said the occasion was historic.

Its been more than one century that they have been removed from their historical context. And when you look at the quality of each of these artifacts altogether, you realize that ... there were great artists, he told The Associated Press.

Benin is founding a new museum in Abomey, partly funded by the French government, that will ultimately house the works.

President Emmanuel Macron suggested that France now needed to right the wrongs of the past, making a landmark speech in 2017 in which he said he can no longer accept "that a large part of many African countries cultural heritage lies in France. It laid down a roadmap for the return of the royal treasures taken during the era of empire and colony.

So far, however, France has only turned over one item  a sword handed to the Army Museum in Senegal. And the 26 works going to Benin represent a tiny handful of the more than 90,000 artifacts from sub-Saharan Africa alone held in French museums.

We see 26 artefacts. There are others, no? So I wouldnt say that we are ending a process. Id say we are at the beginning of a process, Biah said.

I think it would be decent that other countries which hold African artefacts take the same path as France, he added.

Earlier this year, Germany started a similar move. The decision was taken that German museums should work on a restitution plan to return to Nigeria artifacts known as the Benin Bronzes next year. These were looted from the royal palace of the Kingdom of Benin, in what is now southern Nigeria, by a British colonial expedition in 1897.

Yet critics of such moves  including Londons British Museum, in a decades-long tug-of-war with the Greek government over a restitution of the Elgin, or Parthenon, Marbles  argue that it will open the floodgates to emptying Western museums of their collections. Many are made up of objects acquired during colonial times.

The British Museum said Monday it is working on a collaboration with Nigeria, linked to the construction of a new museum in the West African country, which will allow to reunite Benin artworks from international collections.

French Culture Minister Roselyne Bachelot tried to assuage jitters among European museums, emphasizing that this initiative will not create a legal precedent.

A French law was passed last year to allow the restitution of the statues to Benin, and of the sword to Senegal.

But she said that the French governments law was intentionally specific in applying solely to the 27 artifacts. (It) does not establish any general right to restitution and in no way calls into question the right of French museums to hold on to their heritage.

The story of the Abomey Treasures is as dramatic as their sculpted forms. In November 1892, Colonel Alfred Dodds led a pilfering French expeditionary force into the Kingdom of Danhome located in the south of present-day Benin. The colonizing troops broke into the Abomey Palace, home of King Behanzin, seizing as they did many royal objects including the 26 artifacts that Dodds donated to the Musee dEthnographie du Trocadero in Paris in the 1890s. Since the 2000s, the objects have been housed at the Musee du quai BranlyJacques Chirac.

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Gaelle Beaujean, head of the Africa collections at the museum, stressed that these artefacts have also been seen by artists (in France, and) inspired (architect) Le Corbusier ... In fact, since 1893, they are very much engraved on the French memory as well.

They are part, I believe, of a common history, she added.

Macron is to visit the exhibit on Wednesday. The restitution process aims at allowing the African youth to have access to their own heritage in Africa, and not in Europe only, the French presidency said in a statement.

Benins Culture Minister Jean-Michel Abimbola called the return of the works a historic milestone, and the beginning of further cooperation between the two countries, during a news conference last week. The French Development Agency will give some 35 million euros toward the Museum of the Saga of the Amazons and the Danhome Kings to be built in Abomey under a pledge signed this year.

The official transfer of the 26 pieces is expected to be signed in Paris on Nov. 9, and the art is expected to be in Benin a few days later, Abimbola said.

While locals say the decision is overdue, whats important is that the art will be returned. It was a vacuum created among Benins historical treasures, which is gradually being reconstituted, said Fortune Sossa, President of the African Cultural Journalists Network.

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Virgile Ahissou in Cotonou, Benin contributed to this report.
NEW YORK (AP)  Details are still emerging about how Alec Baldwin accidentally shot and killed a cinematographer on a New Mexico film set, but some political onlookers swiftly assigned guilt to one of Hollywood's most prominent liberals.

Right-wing pundits and politicians have long chafed at Baldwins criticism of former President Donald Trump and his Trump parody on Saturday Night Live." They wasted little time zeroing in on the actor who pulled the trigger. The hashtag #AlecForPrison ricocheted around Twitter.

Within hours of the shooting, Ohio Republican Senate candidate J.D. Vance asked Twitter to let Trump back on the social media platform that banned him after the Capitol insurrection. We need Alec Baldwin tweets, Vance wrote.

By Monday, Trumps oldest son was selling $28 T-shirts on his official website with the slogan Guns dont kill people, Alec Baldwin kills people. The post was later removed.

Gun violence has long divided the country, but the fact that some observers seemed to revel in Baldwins role in the shooting added a political dimension to the tragedy. CNN host Jake Tapper on Sunday called Hutchins death heartbreaking for normal people.

But theres something about our politics right now that is driving people away from our shared humanity, Tapper said.

Court records provided some details about the death of Halyna Hutchins on the set of Rust near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Authorities have said that the assistant director, Dave Halls, handed the weapon to Baldwin and announced cold gun, indicating that the weapon was safe to use.

In an affidavit released Sunday night, the films director, Joel Souza, said Baldwin was rehearsing a scene in which he drew a revolver from his holster and pointed it toward the camera, which Hutchins and Souza were behind. Souza, who was wounded by the shot, said the scene did not call for the use of live rounds.

Its not clear yet where the gun-handling protocol failed. Souza said the movies guns were usually checked by armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed and then again by Halls.

At least two people have aired doubts about Halls safety record.

In an email statement to The Associated Press, a producer for the movie Freedoms Path confirmed Monday that Halls was fired from the 2019 production after a crew member suffered a minor injury when a gun was unexpectedly discharged. The producer, who asked not to be identified by name, wrote that Halls was removed from the set immediately. Production did not resume until Halls was gone.

Prop maker Maggie Goll on Sunday said she filed an internal complaint in 2019 over concerns about Halls behavior on the set of Hulus Into the Dark series. Goll said Halls disregarded safety protocols for weapons and pyrotechnics and tried to continue filming after the supervising pyrotechnician, who was diabetic, lost consciousness on set.

Neither Gutierrez-Reed nor Halls have responded to requests for comment on the shooting.

In the affidavit, cameraman Reid Russell said Baldwin had been careful with weapons. Russell was unsure whether the weapon was checked before it was handed to Baldwin.

In the aftermath of Hutchins death, many in the film industry have argued that real guns should be replaced entirely by computer-generated effects.

There should not have been a loaded gun on set, actor Riley Keough wrote on Instagram. We dont need real guns, we can make replicas, and we have CGI. In my opinion, that is the issue here. Not Alec Baldwin.

And yet, as director Gigi Saul Guerrero observed, Baldwin has been the face to this tragic story. The 63-year-old actor, a vocal advocate of gun-law reforms, has been widely mocked by the far-right on social media.

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Literally not one single thing that Alec Baldwin has said about Donald Trump and his supporters is going to age well, tweeted conservative commentator Candace Owens.

U.S. Rep. Lauren Boebert, a Colorado Republican, cited a tweet of Baldwins last year supporting Black Lives Matter protesters in which Baldwin said he was going to make T-shirts that read: My hands are up. Please dont shoot me! Wrote Boebert: Alec Baldwin, are these still available? Asking for a movie producer.

Boebert received widespread criticism. Actor George Takei said Boebert had no soul." Actress Rosanna Arquette wrote: This was a tragic and horrible accident. Ms. Boebart and you should be ashamed of yourself politicizing it. But Boebert stood by her tweet.

"You crazy Blue Checks want to take away our right to defend ourselves with a firearm, and know NOTHING about basic gun safety!" Boebert wrote. If this was a conservative celebrity youd be calling for his head.

The films chief electrician, Serge Svetnoy, blamed producers for Hutchins death in an emotional Facebook post Sunday. Svetnoy faulted negligence and unprofessionalism among those handling weapons on the set, and claimed producers hired an inexperienced armorer.

Im sure that we had the professionals in every department, but one  the department that was responsible for the weapons, Svetnoy wrote. The person who should have checked this weapon before bringing it to the set did not do it. And the DEATH OF THE HUMAN IS THE RESULT!

A spokesman for the films production company, Rust Movie Productions LLC, has said it is cooperating with authorities and conducting an internal review. The company said it was halting production on the film but signaled it may resume in the future.

Baldwin has said he is cooperating with the law enforcement investigation and described the shooting as a tragic accident.

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Associated Press writers Hillel Italie in New York and Lindsey Bahr in Pittsburgh contributed to this report.
The Works Cafe, which stresses community involvement, eco-aware practices and healthy eating with a slogan of "eat well feel good," is developing its ninth location in the former Bruegger's space, at 594 New Loudon Road/Route 9.

An opening date is unclear, though signs have been up in the windows for a few weeks.

The company has four New Hampshire locations, two in Vermont and one each in Massachusetts and Maine. The nearest to the Capital Region is in Manchester, Vt.

The large menu includes egg sandwiches/wraps, grain bowls, sandwiches, pannini, soup and more. There are a dozen kinds of bagels, made from unbleached and unbromated flour, as well as eight types of cream cheese that are blended in-house.

Most current The Works Cafe locations are open 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Info sought for Thanksgiving listings

In the Food section of Thursday, Nov. 11, we will publish a list of places to dine out on Thanksgiving Day (11/25) and of restaurants, caterers, retails markets, etc., offering Thanksgiving meals to go. Info is now being accepted at sbarnes@timesunion.com; listings will appear on the blog as they come in and will be compiled into a large list for the Food section.
ALBANY  The state Assembly conducted a hearing Monday to examine COVID-19s impact on open meetings, more than a year after the pandemic led to the derailment of many provisions of the statute designed to make government bodies more transparent.

In March 2020, as the pandemic spread quickly across the state and led to unprecedented shutdowns, former Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo issued an executive order suspending aspects of the state's Open Meetings Law, enabling government bodies to conduct their meetings virtually.

But the shift to more virtual public meetings, while beneficial to many, also has been problematic due to everything from technical glitches to a lack of direct access to public officials experienced by journalists as well as the general public.

In normal times, the law requires certain government departments and agency meetings are to be held in person, including meetings conducted by school boards and municipal agencies such as town and village boards.

The suspension of the statute has triggered more virtual proceedings. The benefits have included enabling participants to attend without driving long distances or having to find child care, in addition to preventing the potential spread of coronavirus at large gatherings.

However, those without internet access or a stable connection have also found it difficult to participate in the meetings.

The temporary reduction of Open Meetings Law has boosted public participation in some forums, increasing the ability of the public to view meetings online. Although online streaming of meetings is not new, the executive order prompted many agencies to shift to the format in lieu of in-person public meetings.

Monday's hearing was conducted by three Assembly committees  government operations, local governments and cities  bringing together public, media and private-sector stakeholders to discuss potential solutions.

Lawmakers and activists debated the idea of continuing hybrid meetings that would combine virtual and in-person aspects, similarly to the way meetings are held now.

We support hybrid meetings where the public is able to participate in-person and remotely, said Paul Wolf, president of the New York Coalition for Open Government.

Unpopular options include holding strictly remote or in-person meetings. A panel of journalism professionals argued that solely remote meetings would make it difficult for reporters to question lawmakers on the spot.

Jason Nower, a videographer from Southampton, grew emotional as he told the panel about his immunocompromised sister and stressed the importance of taking people like her into consideration while considering amendments to the legislation.

How many in our community are immunocompromised? How many are in treatment? How many are caregivers? How many are overwhelmed parents? How many work two to three jobs? How many are overworked small business owners?" he said in a remote apparance. "If we go back to business as usual, how many people's voices are we leaving out of the conversation?"

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Mikale Billard, a clerk for the Oneida County Board of Legislators, raised concerns about the technical difficulties endemic to hybrid meetings.

In some cases, public participants found it difficult to join the board's WebEx system, or had their calls dropped.

We had one guy, I think he wanted to speak at five different meetings. I don't think he ever made it on one. (He) just never was able to connect, Billard said. Most counties are currently operating in person.

Also, The broadband was not enough to handle 46 people on a WebEx, he said.

He detailed a scene where a public meeting continued without remote participants because the platform went down. "My chairman wanted me to let you know, he would be fine if this expired at the end of the pandemic, Billard said.

Still, hybrid meetings are a preferred option for others. Reinvent Albany, an organization that advocates for a transparent state government, called for them during the hearing.

Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein, D-Queens, concurred.

It provides an opportunity for the public to gather and voice their support," he said. "It also gives them the opportunity to confront some of the representatives who are voting on an issue one way or the other in person. ... It also provides the press an opportunity or a venue where they can ask questions of the participants in a convenient way to get the story out to the rest of the public."
BALLSTON SPA  Citing a strained and adversarial relationship with the board of trustees, Larry Woolbright shocked fellow lawmakers on Monday night when he resigned as village mayor.



The trustees block me at every turn, the Republican mayor said during a virtual municipal meeting on Zoom. He will end his first term as village leader on Friday. Their attitude toward community members and village staff is not always consistent with my idea of how the Village of Friends should operate  Lately, its been a constant battle just to do my job.



Reading from a 20-minute statement, the mayor blamed his decision on Ben Baskin and Liz Kormos, two of the four Democrats who serve on the board.



He said Kormos acts unilaterally instead of as one vote out of five, leading him to suffer awkward and difficult situations. Baskin, the mayor said, tries to micromanage the day-to-day operations of the village.



Baskin and Kormos said they were sad to see Woolbright go.



If I offended you, I apologize, Kormos said. My intention is not to offend you. My intention is much like yours  to do the best for the village.



Baskin echoed the sentiment: I really appreciate what you brought to this position and accomplished.



Woolbright, who took office in 2019, said his priorities do not match those of the majority on the board.



Aside from restoring the villages fiscal health, which was in a shambles when he took office, Woolbright said the villages crumbling infrastructure was his focus.



Our top priority has to be providing the basic services that our residents need, like making sure their drinking water is adequate and safe, making sure their sewers are not backing up into their basements, Woolbright said. Making sure they can get to their house and to the grocery story after a snowstorm; making sure their houses dont burn down, and that they have police protection when they need it.



But he said that those on the board want bike lanes, sidewalk, crosswalks, street trees and parks.

I support every one of them, Woolbright said. Im a walker. Sidewalks and crosswalks are important to me. My wife is a cyclist. Bike lanes are important to me. I have a Ph.D. in ecology. I certainly do not hate trees. ... (But) what I am saying is they are the not highest priority for the village in its current circumstance.



He also accused them of wanting to spend the villages now $2.5 million surplus on what he considers frivolous things, and said the board was acting like kids in a candy store.



We can spend it on this, we can spend it on that, Woolbright said. Im sorry  to fritter it away on niceties when we still lack necessities is the height of irresponsibility.
ALBANY  David Gilbert, a former member of the radical Weather Underground who in 1981 took part in the bloody robbery of a Brink's armored truck in Rockland County, has been paroled two months after former Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo commuted his initial sentence of 75 years to life.

The 77-year-old has been incarcerated for four decades after being convicted of felony murder and robbery charges. The crime  which occurred on Oct. 20, 1981, almost exactly 40 years to Gilbert's parole board appearance last week  left two Nyack police officers and a security guard dead.

Cuomo announced the commutation in his final hours before resigning office in late August. The state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision announced Gilbert's parole Tuesday; he'll be eligible for release from Shawangunk Correctional Facility in Ulster County next month.

Steve Zeidman, a CUNY Law School professor who began representing Gilbert in 2019, said in August his client was one of the oldest and longest-serving among the state's roughly 38,000 inmates. He said Gilbert has expressed deep remorse for his role in the crime, and while behind bars has taken part in efforts such as the creation of an AIDS education program that became a statewide model.

Gilbert's son, Chesa Boudin, was elected district attorney for San Francisco in 2019. The district attorney's mother, Kathy Boudin, was also incarcerated for decades for her part in the heist, and received parole in 2003.

The couple were in a transfer truck waiting for the getaway car carrying the robbers and the $1.6 million they had stolen from the Brink's truck at the Nanuet Mall. Boudin received a sentence of 25 years to life after hiring an attorney, pleading guilty and accepting a plea deal; Gilbert defended himself and went to trial.

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Chesa Boudin told the Times Union's Paul Grondahl last year that his father is perhaps the only person his age who has served as many years in state prison who was unarmed during the commission of the crime. Another Brink's robbery co-defendant, Weather Underground member Judith Clark, who drove the getaway car, was granted parole in 2019 after Cuomo commuted her 75-years-to-life sentence in 2016. Prosecutors and law enforcement bitterly opposed her parole and called it an insult to the victims' family members.

In a statement Tuesday, Rockland County Sheriff Louis Falco III called Gilbert's parole "disgraceful. ... Todays decision diminishes respect for victims and their families in our criminal justice system and weakens public safety."

Jose Saldana, director of the Release Aging People in Prison campaign, said Gilbert "spent decades in prison creating rehabilitative programs and has been an unparalleled positive influence on the lives of countless incarcerated people. There is no doubt that he will be an asset to his community."
COLONIE -- That familiar plate of Freihofers chocolate chip cookies that goes so well with a glass of cold milk is going to have to wait for Capital Region residents  its been washed away until sometime next month by Hurricane Ida.

Go to the Freihofers Bakery Outlet on Fuller Road, area supermarkets or a Stewarts Shop where the 12.5-ounce traditional box of chocolate chip cookies are usually found and all youll see is a blank spot on the shelves.

The cookies are missing.

In early September, Hurricane Idas high winds and floods caused serious damage to the facilities and existing inventory of our main packaging suppliers, representatives of Bimbo Bakeries USA said Tuesday.

This directly affected the production and distribution of several of Bimbo Bakeries USAs products across the U.S. We expect to have the product back on shelves by mid-November, the statement continued.

I cant find them, said one woman at the outlet at 40 Fuller Road.

Employees at the stores where the cookies usually are for sale said the snack is just not available. At the Market 32 at 501 Columbia Turnpike in East Greenbush store employees led a shopper to the display where the renowned cookies usually are displayed only to show a hole where they normally would be.

No Freihofer's cookies. No immediate ties to the Capital Region's traditional culinary identity.

The same was true down the street at the Hannaford Supermarket at 592 Columbia Turnpike where employees looked, then consulted until one of them replied that theyre not available.

Hannaford sells the cookies at its 51 stores in New York state and Vermont, said Ericka Dodge, external communications manager for the supermarket chain.

Dodge said Hannaford has not had any customer complaints about the lack of the cookies. Dodge said a check with the chains cookie manager said the supermarket chain had been told there were issues with the packaging of the chocolate chip cookies.

As you know, theres been a lot of ups and downs in the supply. Theres more tolerance, Dodge said about customers response.

At Stewarts stores, the Freihofers chocolate chip cookies werent around, but Stewarts brand cookies were for sale. While there have been some interruptions with Freihofers, we arent experiencing any out of stocks at the moment, said Erica Komoroske, director of public affairs for the 348-store Stewarts chain.

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Freihofers has been a cornerstone of Capital Region foodstuffs since 1913 when Charles Freihofer opened a bakery in the Lansingburgh neighborhood in Troy. For adults who grew up in the 1950s, the "Freddie Freihofer Show" on WRGB is a fond memory of childhood.

Freihofers cultural status was enshrined by the Albany Institute of History and Arts The Capital Region in 50 Objects. That's survived even as Freihofer's was bought in 1987 by General Foods and eventually by its current owner, Bimbo Bakeries USA.

The companys cake bakery on North Manning Boulevard in West Albany still produces baked goods with the aroma hanging over the neighborhood. Under the name Bimbo Bakeries USA on a silo at the plant, the Freihofers logo is still displayed.

For those needing a chocolate chip cookie fix, the cookies can be seen on the Freihofers Facebook page.
ALBANY  Gov. Kathy Hochul is implementing new guidelines designed to curtail workplace discrimination and harassment in state government, including within the Executive Chamber.

The changes, laid out in a news release Monday, include hiring an independent firm to investigate complaints and the creation of a new human resources department.

Chamber employees will also be required to attend in-person training as a preventative measure.

From the moment I took office, Ive made it a priority to radically change the culture in Albany politics and promote a respectful and collaborative environment as we serve the people of New York, Hochul said in the release.

Everyone has the right to a workplace completely free of unlawful discrimination or harassment. The new measures we are implementing ... mark a major step forward in ensuring New Yorkers get the leadership they deserve from public servants at the highest levels.

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The independent firm, Calcagni Kanefsky LLP, is set to investigate complaints without input from the Executive Chamber and will report findings to the governor's counsel, which would determine a course of action. Chamber staff were also given information Monday on how to file a confidential complaint.

About 200 Chamber staff have attended training sessions covering financial disclosure, standards of conduct, the role of the state Joint Commission on Public Ethics, Public Officers Law and other issues, the release stated.

The move comes after a year of sexual harassment scandals targeting the Executive Chamber. In August, former Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo resigned following the attorney generals report that concluded he committed acts of sexual misconduct, including workplace harassment, against 11 women.
UNITED NATIONS -- The U.N. Security Council has scheduled an emergency closed-door meeting on the coup in Sudan for Tuesday afternoon.

Diplomats said late Monday that the consultations were requested by the United States, United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Norway and Estonia.

The council is wrapping up a visit to Mali and Niger and is scheduled to return to New York early Tuesday afternoon, so the meeting has been scheduled for 4 p.m. EDT, the diplomats said ahead of an official announcement.

Sudans military seized power Monday, arresting the prime minister and other officials of the transitional government, sparking protests by thousands of demonstrators across the country demanding a return to civilian rule. The takeover threatened the countrys shaky progress toward democracy.

Council members are scheduled to discuss the disputed Abyei region on the Sudan-South Sudan border Wednesday.

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WASHINGTON  The Biden administration is suspending $700 million in emergency assistance to Sudan following a coup in the African nation.

State Department spokesman Ned Price said the full amount of the aid package had been put on pause pending a review of the developments in Khartoum. The money, which was direct financial support, was intended to help the country transition to a fully civilian government. Price said additional U.S. assistance could also be affected.

The administration condemned the military takeover and dissolution of a transitional civilian-led authority and demanded the release of all officials detained in the overnight coup, which led to the arrest of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok. Price said the administration was watching developments very closely and will not hesitate to hold those responsible for the coup to account.

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UNITED NATIONS  The U.N. special envoy for Sudan says barricades in the capital of Khartoum are burning and occasional gunshots can be heard so there is a risk that there would be more violence or more clashes.

The Sudan Doctors Committee says three protesters were killed after security forces fired on crowds that flooded in the streets in the wake of a coup Monday. It says 80 people were wounded.

Volker Perthes spoke in a press briefing from Khartoum to reporters at U.N. headquarters Monday. He said that after the army carried out the coup and closed the entrances, bridges and airport in the city, quite a number of parties and unions asked people to take to the streets to condemn the takeover. He says thousands came out across the country to demand a return to civilian government.

Perthes says some demonstrators earlier Monday tried to enter army headquarters here in Khartoum, and we have then seen shooting and injuries but cant confirm any details.

Perthes said he and U.S. envoy Jeffrey Feltman held parallel meetings with Sudanese political and military leaders in the past weeks. They urged a return to dialogue and advised against a coup which he said would squander the achievements of the first two years of the transition.

The U.N. envoy demanded that all parties exercise utmost restraint, that the military release all those unlawfully detained on Monday, and urged a return to dialogue and adherence to the constitution.

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MORE ON SUDAN:

 Sudans military takes power in coup, arrests prime minister

 EXPLAINER: How months of tensions led to Sudans coup

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HERE'S WHAT ELSE IS HAPPENING:

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CAIRO  The U.N.s top human rights official has condemned the coup in Sudan, warning the county could slip backwards after progress following the 2019 uprising that ended a repressive dictatorship.

Michelle Bachelet, the U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, called Monday for the release of Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, government officials and political leaders who were detained.

Bachelet also urged military authorities to settle differences with civilians in the transitional government through dialogue and negotiation.

She called for the military to withdraw troops from the streets and refrain from unnecessary and disproportionate use of force against protesters who took to the streets against the coup.

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KHARTOUM, Sudan  The Sudan Doctors Committee says two protesters were killed after security forces fired on crowds that flooded in the streets in the wake of a coup Monday. It says 80 people were wounded.

Sudans military seized power, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the prime minister. Thousands of people flooded into the streets to protest the coup that threatens the countrys shaky progress toward democracy.

The takeover comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was supposed to hand the leadership of the council that runs the country over to civilians.

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  The Gulf Arab sheikhdoms of the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain have called for calm and restraint in Sudan following the armys coup.

The UAE, which along with regional allies Saudi Arabia and Egypt had cultivated close ties to Sudans top generals, emphasized the importance of securing stability as soon as possible, in a manner that achieves the interest and aspirations of the Sudanese people.

Bahrains Foreign Ministry said it had confidence in Sudans political establishment to overcome this crisis through dialogue and understanding.

Their muted statements come as Western countries and the United Nations have strongly condemned the armys takeover of Sudan. Security forces arrested several top officials including the interim prime minister and protesters flooded the streets of the capital. The developments threaten to undermine Sudans fragile democratic transition since the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir over two years ago.

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KHARTOUM  U.S. diplomats in Sudan have issued warnings to American citizens in the country citing the militarys closure of areas in and around the capital and reports of violence against protesters.

The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum urged Americans to shelter in place and remain aware of their surroundings hours after Sudans top general declared a state of emergency and dissolved the civilian government. Internet remained widely disrupted across the country and the embassy noted it was non-functional in Khartoum.

It asked that American citizens not travel to the U.S. Embassy or to international airports in Khartoum or Port Sudan, where it said outbound flights were halted.

The military coup on Monday plunged Sudans fragile political transition into uncertainty, two years after mass protests helped to topple the iron-fisted rule of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

CAIRO  The pro-democracy group that negotiated a power-sharing deal with Sudans military after the ouster of autocratic president Omar al-Bashir has condemned the coup that returned the military to power.

The Forces for the Declaration of Freedom and Change in a statement Monday called for the release of all detained ministers and government officials and for the military to hand power over to a civilian government.

The statement also urged the international community to declare their rejection of the coup.

Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the interim prime minister and other officials. Thousands of people flooded into the streets to protest the coup that threatens the countrys shaky progress toward democracy.

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DUBAI, United Arab Emirates  Saudi Arabia has issued a call for restraint and calm in Sudan amid the armys takeover.

The regional powerhouse, which has cultivated close ties with Sudans top generals, issued a statement of concern on Monday, calling on Sudanese factions to unify and preserve the political and economic gains that have been achieved.

The kingdom affirms its continued standing with the brotherly Sudanese people, the Foreign Ministry statement read.

Saudi Arabia and other oil-rich Gulf Arab sheikhdoms for years supported long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir, although they eventually backed the militarys ouster of him amid mass protests against his rule over two years ago.

After al-Bashirs removal, Saudi pledged billions of dollars in funding along with the United Arab Emirates to Sudans new military rulers, a move that generated some suspicion among Sudanese protesters who feared their revolution may be thwarted.

The Saudi statement came as Sudans ruling general declared a state of emergency and dissolved the countrys civilian Cabinet. Security forces arrested top officials and protesters poured into the streets of the capital.

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UNITED NATIONS  The United Nations has denounced the ongoing military coup in Sudan and urgently called for the release of the countrys interim prime minister and other top Cabinet officials.

In a tweet on Monday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and all other officials detained by Sudanese security forces early Monday must be released immediately.

There must be full respect for the constitutional charter to protect the hard-won political transition, Guterres wrote.

He added: The UN will continue to stand with the people of Sudan.

The U.N.s political envoy to Sudan, Volker Perthes, echoed Guterres appeal and described the arrests of officials as unacceptable.

Perthes added he was deeply concerned about the attempts to undermine Sudans political transition to democracy following the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir in 2019.

He urged all parties to return to dialogue and engage in good faith to restore the constitutional order.

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BRUSSELS  The European Union has condemned the arrest of Sudans acting prime minister and other officials by the countrys military forces, calling for their immediate release.

The takeover takes place more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was expected to hand the leadership of the council that runs the African country over to civilians.

The EUs top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said in a statement that the coup is a betrayal of the revolution, the transition, and the legitimate requests of the Sudanese people for peace, justice and economic development.

Thousands of protesters have poured into the streets of the capital, Khartoum, and its twin city of Omdurman, following the arrests.

The right of peaceful protest must be respected; violence and bloodshed must be avoided at all cost; we also urge communication networks to be open, Borrell said.

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CAIRO  Egypt has urged all parties in neighboring Sudan to work to ensure stability and security amid the military takeover of the east African country.

Egypt, which shares access to the vital Nile River and a long southern border with Sudan, said Monday that it was closely following the countrys tumult and emphasized the need to deal with current challenges in a manner that guarantees the safety of this brotherly country.

The statement from the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, which came after Sudans top general dissolved the civilian government and declared a state of emergency, did not condemn the coup or express overt concerns like many Western countries have.

Instead, Egypt said only that it was urging Sudanese factions to give priority to the higher interest of the country and to national consensus.

The two most senior generals in Sudan have close ties with Egypt under its own general-turned-president Abdel Fattah el-Sissi.

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PARIS  French President Emmanuel Macron has added his voice to the growing global concern over the military coup underway in Sudan.

France condemns in the strongest terms the attempted coup detat, Macron tweeted, after Sudans leading general declared a state of emergency and dissolved the civilian government.

Macron said France supports the transitional government that had been tasked with steering Sudan toward democratic elections. He also called for the immediate release of Sudans prime minister and other civilian leaders who have been detained.

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CAIRO  The United States says the leaders of the military coup underway in Sudan are undermining the countrys transition to democracy and should stand down.

The U.S. Embassy in Sudan said on Twitter Monday it was gravely concerned after Sudans leading general declared a state of emergency and dissolved the ruling body that had been jointly overseen by military and civilian leaders. In the statement the embassy calls on all actors who are disrupting Sudans transition to stand down, and allow the civilian-led transitional government to continue its important work to achieve the goals of the revolution.

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Thats a reference to the mass protests that helped topple longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir in 2019 and installed a ruling council to steer the country toward democratic elections.

U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman said earlier Monday that Washington was deeply alarmed about the events and warned that a military coup could jeopardize American aid to Sudan.

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CAIRO  The Norwegian Refugee Council has appealed to Sudans rulers to protect civilians amid the military takeover of the east African country, requesting unimpeded humanitarian access to help millions who have fled war over the years.

The aid groups Sudan director, Will Carter, said Monday that changes to Sudans political leadership should not jeopardize authorities previous vows to ensure that humanitarian organizations can assist the 13 million people badly in need of aid across Sudan, including millions of displaced Sudanese.

Sudans leaders have a collective opportunity and responsibility to break from a difficult past, the statement said, exhorting the international community not to abandon Sudans people in this hour of need.

The call came as Sudans leading general declared a state of emergency and dissolved the ruling council that had been steering the fragile country toward democratic elections.

Under long-time autocrat Omar al-Bashir who was toppled amid mass protests in 2019, aid organizations struggled to access the countrys most vulnerable in war-scarred regions like Darfur where combatants sometimes controlled access to food.

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BEIJING  China is urging a dialogue between Sudanese factions as an apparent military coup roils the nation.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said Monday that China wanted all parties in Sudan to resolve their differences through dialogue so as to maintain peace and stability of the country.

He told reporters that China would continue to closely follow the turbulence in Sudan and take necessary measures to ensure the safety of Chinese institutions and personnel there.

China is a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and major investor in Africa.

The arrests on Monday of Sudans interim prime minister and other officials plunged Sudans fragile path to democracy into uncertainty following the 2019 ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir. During al-Bashirs harsh rule and despite allegations of his governments human rights abuses, China was Sudans biggest trading partner and key international partner.

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CAIRO - The Saudi-based Organization of Islamic Cooperation has expressed concern over the apparent coup in Sudan amid a fragile transition to democracy.

In a statement carried by the state-run Saudi Press Agency, the organization said Monday that it urged Sudanese leaders to abide by the constitutional document and what has been agreed upon during the transition period.

The statement comes as other nations express alarm at the arrest of Sudans interim prime minister and other senior officials. Their whereabouts were not immediately known.

Thousands of Sudanese protesters have flooded the streets as fears of a military coup grip the country two years after mass protests ousted autocrat Omar al-Bashir, who ruled Sudan with an iron fist for three decades.

The 57-nation OIC is based in Jiddah, Saudi Arabia.

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BERLIN  Germany has demanded an immediate halt to the apparent military coup underway in Sudan.

German Foreign Minister Heiko Mass condemned the attempted takeover in the vast east African country and called the news dismaying.

This attempted coup must end immediately, he said, urging all those who bear responsibility for security and state order in Sudan to continue the peaceful political transition process in Sudan toward democracy.

The statement Monday was one of several from other nations expressing concern about the arrest of Sudans interim prime minister and other senior officials. Their whereabouts were not immediately known.

Thousands of Sudanese protesters have flooded the streets as fears of a military coup grip the country two years after mass protests ousted autocrat Omar al-Bashir, who ruled Sudan with an iron fist for three decades. Since 2019, Sudan has been navigating a fragile transition to democracy.

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CAIRO  The United Nations Mission to Sudan has issued an emphatic rebuke of what it called an ongoing coup and attempts to undermine the northeast African nations fragile democratic transition.

The first reports about a possible military takeover began trickling out of Sudan before dawn Monday. By mid-morning, the information ministry confirmed that the prime minister, Abdalla Hamdok, had been arrested and taken to an undisclosed location. Several senior government figures were also detained, the ministry said in a Facebook post. It said their whereabouts were unknown.

The reported detentions of the prime minister, government officials and politicians are unacceptable, said the recently formed U.N. political mission, which has a mandate to assist the countrys political transition and protect human rights.

The mission called on Sudans security forces to immediately release those who have been unlawfully detained or placed under house arrest and urged all parties to exercise utmost restraint.

Diplomats have joined in a chorus of concern over the events that rocked Sudan on Monday, as Sudanese security forces detained senior government officials in undisclosed locations and thousands flooded the street in protest, two years after mass demonstrations helped topple former autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

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CAIRO  The Arab League has released a statement of deep concern about the apparent military coup in Sudan.

The Secretary-General of the 22-member bloc, Ahmed Aboul Gheit, urged all parties on Monday to fully abide by the constitutional declaration signed in August 2019, which had aimed to pave the way for a transition to civilian rule and democratic elections following the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir.

There are no problems that cannot be resolved without dialogue, Aboul Gheit said after Sudans military detained the countrys interim prime minister along with other top Cabinet officials and protesters poured into streets of the capital, Khartoum.

It is important to respect all decisions and agreements that were decided upon  refraining from any measures that would disrupt the transitional period and shake stability in Sudan, the statement added.

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CAIRO  The European Union has joined the United States in expressing grave concern about a possible military takeover underway in Sudan.

EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell tweeted on Monday that hes following events in the northeast African nation with the utmost concern, after reports emerged that Sudanese military forces had detained several senior government officials, including the interim prime minister.

The EU calls on all stakeholders and regional partners to put back on track the transition process, Borrell wrote, referring to Sudans fragile transition from autocracy to democracy after the ouster of longtime ruler Omar al-Bashir in 2019.

Earlier, U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman said Washington was deeply alarmed and indicated that a military coup would threaten American aid to the impoverished country.

As we have said repeatedly, any changes to the transitional government by force puts at risk U.S. assistance, the U.S. Bureau of African Affairs wrote on Twitter.
The U.S. Constitution is ablaze, Americas democracy burning to the ground. But Democrats arent hurrying to find a fire hose or even a water bucket. Cant they see the flames?

On Wednesday, all Senate Republicans voted against allowing debate on a new voting rights bill designed to undo some of the damage GOP state legislatures have done to democracy. This was not an up-or-down vote on the legislation itself. This was simply a call to allow debate on the bill.

But the measure needed 60 votes to pass because of a ridiculous rule in the Senate, the filibuster. (Despite its unflinching support among a Senate majority, the filibuster is not in the U.S. Constitution.) Democrats have a razor-thin majority of 51-50  counting Vice President Kamala Harris, who can break a tie  so they needed 10 Republican senators to join them to allow the voting rights bill to move to the floor. But Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell demands strict loyalty from his caucus, and he gets it.

That means that even the senators who have acquired a reputation for being reasonable  Mitt Romney, R-Utah; Susan Collins, R-Maine; and occasionally Shelley Moore Capito, R-W.Va.  voted against debate on strengthening voting rights because McConnell told them to. The decision is telling: Republicans dont want to stand on the Senate floor to denounce measures that would make voting easier and allow each legitimate ballot to count, as the Constitution intends.

Without a renewed law that protects voting rights, Republicans have the power to carry out a coup, and there is no reason to believe they wont. Former President Donald Trump came very close to pulling one off as a lame duck in January 2021. Plenty of documents and audiotapes reveal the attempts Trump and his cronies made to persuade or pressure then-Vice President Mike Pence and state Republican officials to throw out legitimate ballots that were cast for Trumps successor, President Joe Biden. A handful of Republicans had the courage and the conscience to protect the Constitution, and they refused to go along with Trumps plan.

But GOP-dominated state legislators jumped into action to solve that problem, passing new laws that not only blocked the ballot but also make it much easier to subvert the election process next time. The voter-suppression measures drew widespread news media attention. In Georgia, for example, the Legislature went so far as to make it illegal to pass out food and water to voters standing in long lines. More common were measures in several states that cut back on early voting and limited drop boxes for mail-in ballots. This year, according to the Brennan Center for Justice, 19 states have enacted laws making it more difficult for citizens to vote.

But those laws, although malicious and antidemocratic, are not the most dangerous to the republic. The most dangerous laws are those that took power away from elections officials, who might have the temerity to protect legitimate ballots, and handed it to state legislatures, essentially giving them the power to determine which presidential candidate gets the states Electoral College votes. Because virtually all GOP-dominated state legislatures are in thrall to Trump, they will direct the votes to whomever he dictates. And what do you think an ultraconservative U.S. Supreme Court will do?

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Unfortunately, two Democrats dont seem to hear the smoke alarms shrieking. West Virginia Sen. Joe Manchin and Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema have vowed to protect the filibuster, claiming, ironically, that it protects democratic norms. (In fact, the filibuster is notorious for its use against legislation designed to protect the rights of minority groups.)

To counter demands to end the filibuster, Manchin worked to produce a compromise voting rights bill that would draw Republican support. That bill, the Freedom to Vote Act, would mandate national standards for early voting and voting by mail and would mitigate partisan gerrymandering of legislative and congressional districts. It also included provisions to prevent election subversion by partisans intent on overthrowing a lawful election. But no Republican senators would back those provisions.

Now its up to Manchin and Sinema to abolish the filibuster. If they dont, they are aiding a group of autocrats who aim to overturn democracy.

Cynthia Tucker won the Pulitzer Prize for commentary in 2007. She can be reached at cynthia@cynthiatucker.com.
Catholic Funeral Liturgy for Mary Casuccio will be at St. Peter the Fisherman Catholic Church on November 23, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. Interment follows at Mt. Carmel Cemetery. Arrangements are under the care of Domico Funeral Home.
[October 26, 2021] 200 Public Cloud Projects Completed in 24 Months by Edge Technology Group

Edge Technology Group, a leading global technology advisory and fully-managed IT service provider for alternative investment managers, announces 200 public cloud projects completed since the start of the pandemic, a milestone accelerated by a fast and aggressive move to more consolidated and dispersed working models. With clients ranging from the world's largest global hedge funds, to single and multi-family offices, private equity firms, and asset managers worldwide, Edge has delivered a expertly-designed public cloud configurations to address the specific business needs of this disparate client base. A few recent implementations that Edge has executed for clients include an AWS compute cluster for a +$20 billion global hedge fund, a multi-cloud, VDI enhanced security platform applied to a 100% remote work experience for a $4 billion multi-strategy launch, a full-cloud deployment and cloud backup for a $1 billion private equity launch, and an O365 migration for 60 people, incorporating SharePoint for a $3 billion global hedge fund. "As a Tier-1 Direct Cloud Solution Provider with Microsoft (News - Alert), Edge provides customers with public cloud solutions built within a secure and compliant platform," explained John Pecoraro, COO. "Edge delivers premier white-glove service and 24x7 global support and monitoring to ensure an outstanding user experience," John added. Edge's public cloud platform is protected in Edge's world-class security. This includes unique policy-enforced protection and integration with enhanced security services. Edge leverages Microsoft and 3rd party ecurity patching configured and evolved in-line with regulator, industry and investor demands. Like all other Edge Technology Group products and services, the company's public cloud offering is designed to meet the requirements of global financial regulators and institutional investor operational due diligence.



"Our public cloud clients' security estates are designed and implemented by a global team of fully-certified cloud engineers and architects, and then managed by a regional CISSP Certified Information Security Officer. In addition, Edge maintains various certifications to support the data and risk management requirements of our alternative investment clients, including ISO 27001, SOC 2, and UKAS," stated Tom Mazzola, Head of Information Security, Americas. Edge was named Best Cloud Services Provider at the Hedgeweek European Awards 2021, and the company was recognized as Best IT Consultancy Service to the hedge fund sector by HFM's Global 2021 US Technology Awards.

About Edge Technology Group Edge Technology Group is a sector-focused consultancy, exclusively representing alternative investment managers globally. Edge offers fully managed IT services and complete cloud solutions. The company delivers immediate, flexible and proprietary solutions that satisfy the needs of hedge funds, private equity firms, family offices and asset managers worldwide. Edge has 8 locations across Asia Pacific, Europe and the US, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Sydney, London, New York, San Francisco, Austin and Greenwich, CT. To learn more about Edge Technology Group, contact [email protected] or visit www.edgetg.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005228/en/

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[October 26, 2021] ASK Corporation to Distribute Blaize Products in Japan

Blaize, the AI computing innovator revolutionizing edge and automotive computing solutions, and ASK Corporation of Tokyo today announced an agreement under which ASK will distribute Blaize products serving industrial, security, enterprise and consumer markets in Japan. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005476/en/ (Photo: Business Wire) "We are intrigued by the possibilities afforded by the Blaize GSP architecture based low latency, high performance inference processing solutions to enable edge AI applications across a wide range of industries," said Kazuhiko Muto, President of ASK Corporation. "Blaize is a great fit with our philosophy of providing customers a one-stop support for modules and systems, with an emphasis on quality control and customer service." "We are excited by the opportunity to work with ASK as we expand our presence in the industrial PC, embedded applications, manufacturing and security and surveillance markets in Japan," said Dinakar Munagala, CEO, Blaize, Inc. "ASK is a great fit to introduce the Blaize product portfolio to these markets bringing value-added capabilities to their customers." Blaize is delivering AI computing hardware and software products built to overcome today's unmet requirements for compute and productization of AI applications at the edge. Blaize Pathfinder and Xplorer platforms coupled with the Blaize AI Studio and Picasso software, provide the industry's first end-to-end AI productization solution for the edge.



Blaize leads new-generation computing unleashing the potential of AI to enable leaps in the value technology delivers to improve the way we all work and live. Blaize offers transformative edge computing solutions for AI data collection and processing at the edge of network, with focus on smart vision applications including automobility, retail, security, industrial and metro. Blaize has secured US$155M in equity funding to date from strategic and venture investors Franklin Templeton, Temasek, DENSO, Daimler, SPARX Group, Magna, Samsung Catalyst Fund, GGV Capital, Wavemaker and SGInnovate. With headquarters in El Dorado Hills (CA (News - Alert)), Blaize has teams in Campbell (CA), Cary (NC), and subsidiaries in Hyderabad (India), Manila (Philippines), and Leeds and Kings Langley (UK), with 300+ employees worldwide. www.blaize.com About ASK Corporation

ASK Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is a leading distributor providing products, services and solutions to consumer, commercial, and professional users of IT peripherals, mobile electronics, high-end audio, enterprise computing solutions, and professional videography equipment. Providing real solutions to real market needs as a trusted "full service" partner, ASK Corporation, since its inception in 1997, differentiates itself with an unwavering commitment and dedication to provide end-to-end services to vendor suppliers, channel resellers, and end-users - from pre-sales market research to customer-centric technical support - with the goal to establish and grow vendor brands with years of industry segment market knowledge, exceptional array of accessible channel partners, productive and relationship-minded sales force, and innovative marketing strategies. ASK Corporation partners with a multitude of top-tier technology vendors primarily based in the U.S., Europe, and Taiwan. Copyright 2021  Blaize.com Blaize, the Blaize logo, GSP, and other designated brands included herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of Blaize, Inc. in the United States and other countries. All other brand and product names are trademarks or service marks of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005476/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Brinks Home Announces Long-Term Contract with Major ADT Dealer, Armor Security

Brinks Home has announced that Armor Home Services ("Armor Security"), a premier dealer in the smart home security industry, has joined the Brinks Home dealer program. Jonathan Willis, founder of Armor Security said, "Serving people and protecting homes is why I started this business. The peace of mind we provide customers has never been more valuable. By partnering with the Brinks Home team, Armor will be able to deliver on that promise as well as grow our business". The move is also designed to better serve Armor's employees by offering more opportunities for growth. "We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Armor," said Wade Gibson, senior vice president, Network Sales, Brinks Home. "We have built the best dealer program in the industry, and we look forward to welcoming Armor to our growing list of high-performing Dealers." Armor was founded in 2015 by security industry veterans that started with ADT in the mid-1990s and early 2000s. It is based in Mesa, Arizona and serves new homeowners and other customers across the United States. As part of Armor's new partnership withBrinks Home, Armor will be the exclusive development dealer who will help train other dealers in its proprietary marketing and sales approach, which targets high-credit, long-lasting customers with premium smart home packages.



The new agreement is part of continuing efforts by Brinks Home to grow its Dealer network with an innovative and customized partnership-based approach. Brinks Home tailors each partnership to the Dealer's needs and backs them with a brand that has been synonymous with security for over 150 years. Brinks Home helps its Dealers achieve their personal goals while creating satisfied, long-term customers. About Brinks Home

Brinks Home is one of the largest home security and alarm monitoring companies in North America. Headquartered in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Brinks Home provides platinum grade protection to over 950,000 residential and commercial customers through highly responsive, simple security solutions backed by expertly trained professionals. The company has one of the nation's largest networks of independent authorized dealers and agents - providing products and support to customers in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico - as well as direct-to-consumer sales of DIY and professionally installed products. To learn more about Brinks Home or how to become an Authorized Dealer, Partner, or Representative, visit brinkshome.com or brinkshome.com/partners. About Armor Security Armor Home Services is a former ADT Authorized Dealer (now Brinks Home Authorized Dealer) headquartered in Mesa, Arizona. Armor Security protects new customers across the United States with professionally installed smart home security systems. To learn more about Armor Security, visit myarmorhome.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005093/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Broadridge Canada Partners with Equisoft to Enhance Its Wealth Technology Platform with Innovative Front-End Solutions

MONTREAL, Oct. 26, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - Equisoft, a leading global digital solutions provider to the insurance and investment industries, announced today a strategic partnership with Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. This agreement comes in line with both firms' efforts to empower and support the digital transformation of leading wealth and financial services institutions. Equisoft's flexible front-end solution suite that includes financial planning, CRM, and investment proposal generation will complement the Broadridge Wealth Platform designed to help firms gain agility with an open API design. "Broadridge is a global Fintech leader that delivers a single, consolidated Wealth Platform designed to modernize a financial firm's entire business. Our wealth planning solutions are a perfect fit within this ecosystem," says Anthony Stockley, Vice President, Wealth Solutions Canada at Equisoft. "By combining our respective expertise, we now provide clients with a better overall user experience while driving bottom line cost efficiencies across the organization." As a global technology company, with over 25 years of success in the wealth management sector, Equisoft's technoogy is built on a scalable, flexible architecture, and the proven solutions are trusted by some of the largest financial institutions globally. Equisoft's financial suite of tools enables clients to provide insightful portfolio analytics and track investment goals as part of a comprehensive wealth management plan.



"We are excited to join forces with an innovative technology company like Equisoft. Our partnership offers an extended suite of solutions that help wealth and asset management professionals address the constantly evolving expectations of their clients and regulators, with tools that uncover needs, deepen relationships, and drive productivity," said Donna Bristow, Chief Product Officer, Wealth at Broadridge. "Our open all-in-one platform increases advisor productivity, optimizes operational efficiency, and enhances the investor experience. It will build on the core strengths of the solutions that both Broadridge and Equisoft offer today to thousands of individual advisors, broker/dealers, and fund companies." About Equisoft

Founded in 1994, Equisoft is a global provider of advanced insurance and investment digital solutions. Recognized as a valued partner by over 250 of the world's leading financial institutions in 16 countries, Equisoft offers innovative front-end applications, extensive back-office services and unique data migration expertise. The firm's flagship products include a SaaS policy administration solution, CRM, financial needs analysis, financial planning, asset allocation, fund and portfolio analysis, quotes and illustrations, electronic application, agency management systems, as well as customer, agent and broker portals. Equisoft is also Oracle's largest and most experienced partner for the OIPA platform. With its business-driven approach, deep industry knowledge, innovative technology, and more than 800 experts based in Canada, USA, UK, Chile, Colombia, South Africa, India and Australia, Equisoft helps its clients tackle any challenge in this era of digital disruption. For more information about our products and services, please visit www.equisoft.com . About Broadridge Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (NYSE: BR), a $4 billion global Fintech leader, is a leading provider of investor communications and technology-driven solutions to banks, broker-dealers, asset and wealth managers and corporate issuers. Broadridge's infrastructure underpins proxy voting services for over 50 percent of public companies and mutual funds globally, and processes on average more than U.S. $8 trillion in fixed income and equity securities trades per day. Broadridge is part of the S&P 500 Index and employs over 12,000 associates in 17 countries. SOURCE Equisoft

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Conrad N. Hilton Foundation Awards $76 Million in Grants in Third Quarter of 2021

The board of directors of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation announced today that grants totaling more than $76 million were approved in the third quarter of 2021. These grants were awarded to 32 organizations across the Hilton Foundation's program areas, in the U.S. and internationally.

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"MCJ fights for the most vulnerable Mississippians. Our work is testament to our conviction. Fighting difficult battles and overcoming insurmountable odds is what we do in Mississippi," said Vangela M. Wade, president and CEO of Mississippi Center for Justice. Here she addresses media and lawmakers at the state capitol in Jackson, Mississippi on February 27, 2020, after Department of Human Services officials were reported embezzling funds meant for Mississippi families. The Mississippi Center for Justice is a non-profit pro bono law firm dedicated to dismantling the state's culture of injustice. Photo Credit: Mississippi Center for Justice / Patrick Taylor

This round of grantmaking includes more than $11 million within the Foundation's Equity Fund, which was established in 2020 to combat racism and other forms of bias and injustice across multiple dimensions, including gender, disability and LGBTQI+. Grants made through the Equity Fund are for general operating support and capacity building to organizations led and governed by historically under-represented populations in the United States.

"The impact of the pandemic hit underserved communities the hardest, uncovering systemic barriers and shedding a light on the need to address the root causes of inequity," said Peter Laugharn, president and CEO of the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation. "We are proud to support the transformative work of these organizations and directly partner with communities to make our world a better place for all."

The Equity Fund increased from $5 million in 2020 to $10 million in 2021, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to equity across all its programmatic work, and signaling a longer-term commitment to support the individual needs of organizations doing important work to combat racism and bias through general operating grants.

Following is an overview of all grants awarded in the third quarter of 2021 across the Foundation's program areas:

Catholic Sisters - The Association of Consecrated Women in Eastern and Central Africa was awarded $2 million to support Catholic sisters in East and Central Africa to reignite and strengthen ministries affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development was granted $1.6 million to build and strengthen partnerships between Catholic sisters and Episcopal Commissions and Diocesan offices responsible for ministries supporting migrants in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Global Solidarity Fund received $5 million to build sisters communication and advocacy skills, support global advocacy against human trafficking and leverage funding from multiple funders to support the Church and sisters human development agenda. Support Our Aging Religious, Inc. was granted $3 million to build the capacity of under-resourced congregations of women religious to plan for and address the short and long-term needs of elderly sisters, including support for congregations who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19.

Foster Youth - Child Trends Incorporated received $1.9 million to serve as the strategy-level evaluation partner to the Foster Youth Initiative in Los Angeles, New York, and one new geography consistent with the newly-approved strategy, learning and evaluation framework. Friends of the Children - National Office received $2.4 million to support the No Matter What: Professional Mentoring Project for Children of Transition Age Foster Youth.

Global Early Childhood Development - Aga Khan Foundation USA was awarded $3 million to support an early childhood development technical resource hub for the Eastern and Southern Africa region, and community-based research in Kenya and Tanzania. Center for the Study of Social Policy received $1.6 million to strengthen early childhood development systems nationally by building parent leadership. Children in Crossfire received $3.4 million to strengthen the capacity of civil society to advocate for and monitor multisectoral early childhood development programs and policies in Tanzania. The Power of Nutrition was granted $3 million to test approaches to providing integrated parenting supports like nutrition, responsive caregiving and cash grants in Malawi. The Regents of the University of California was awarded $3.5 million to support research by the WORLD Policy Analysis Center to develop an evidence-base case for policy reform to improve early childhood development in lower and middle income countries. Zero to Three: National Center for Infants, Toddlers and Families received $4.6 million to scale the HealthySteps holistic pediatric care model in Los Angeles County and advocate for improved local and national policies and financing to improve ECD outcomes.







Homelessness - Local Initiatives Support Corporation received a $2 million program-related investment for a modular construction loan fund for supportive housing development. Urban Institute was awarded $2 million support research and the development of tools to expand the capacity of targeted communities to shape policies at both the federal and local levels that amplify the intersectional nature of race, housing instability and homelessness. Westat, Inc. received $1.7 million to serve as a strategy-level evaluation partner to the Homelessness Initiative in Los Angeles consistent with the newly-approved strategy, learning and evaluation framework.

Opportunity Youth - Delgado Community College was awarded $1.9 million to support credentials for Opportunity Youth in the Hospitality and Allied Health programs.

Refugees - International Rescue Committee Inc. was awarded $4 million to support Early Childhood Development and Economic Empowerment for refugees and host community members in Ethiopia and Ecuador. Village Enterprise Fund received $2 million to improve refugees' income and wellbeing in Ethiopia through integrating two tested models: the graduation approach and market systems development.

Equity Fund

Organizations receiving general operating support within our Equity Fund include the following:

Disaster Relief and Recovery

African Development Solutions (ADESO) was awarded $2.5 million for Network for Empowered Aid response (NEAR) a global network, in creating a consortia-style pooled fund to respond to disasters globally. Asociacion Salvadorena de Ayuda Humanitaria PRO-VIDA received $2.5 million to support the Concertacion Regional para la Gestion del Riesgo (Regional Coordination for Risk Management), a regional response fund and network, to respond to disasters in Central America. Save the Children Federation, Inc. received $2.5 million to support disaster response through the Humanitarian Fund. Start Network was granted $2.5 to support the organization's global fund for crisis response.

Additionally, The International Union of Superiors General was awarded $5 million to provide support globally to congregations to care for Catholic sisters suffering from Alzheimer's disease, and Community Science received $1.5 million to provide monitoring and evaluation services for the Equity Fund and Partnerships.

To learn more about our program areas and how we approach our work, please visit hiltonfoundation.org/program-areas. For more detailed information on our grantmaking, please visit hiltonfoundation.org/grants.

About the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation

International hotelier Conrad N. Hilton established the grantmaking foundation that bears his name in 1944 to help people living in poverty and experiencing disadvantage worldwide. Today, the work continues, concentrating on efforts to improve early childhood development outcomes, support older youth as they transition from foster care, ensure opportunity youth can access career pathways, prevent homelessness, identify solutions to safe water access, help integrate refugees into society and lift the work of Catholic sisters. Additionally, following selection by an independent, international jury, the Foundation annually awards the $2.5 million Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize to an organization doing extraordinary work to reduce human suffering. The Foundation is one of the world's largest, with $7.5 billion in assets. It has awarded grants to date totaling more than $2 billion, $207 million worldwide in 2020. Please visit www.hiltonfoundation.org for more information.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005395/en/
[October 26, 2021] Cultured Meat: A Global Perspective from IDTechEx

BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Cultured meat has come a long way since 2013. What was once a concept from the realms of science fiction, made in tiny quantities in research labs for astronomical costs has now become an emerging industry, with start-ups across the world racing to become the first to successfully produce cultured meat on a commercial scale. Companies are now routinely carrying out taste tests of cultured meat products and, if you were lucky enough to get a reservation at the 1880 restaurant in Singapore in early 2021, cultured chicken nuggets could even be ordered, following the regulatory approval for cultured meat produced by Californian start-up Eat Just, Inc. Cultured meat, otherwise known as cultivated meat, cell-based meat, or clean meat, is an emerging technology area that involves using cultured animal cells to create meat-like food products. Unlike plant-based meat or other meat analogs, cultured meat is produced from the same cells as conventional meat and can theoretically provide an exact replica of the real thing, without requiring animal slaughter and at a fraction of the environmental cost. Over the last few years, enthusiasm around the cultured meat industry and its potential to disrupt the $1 trillion conventional meat industry has been growing. Since 2015, the sector has raised over $600 million in funding, growing from less than five companies to over fifty in the same time frame. There are now cultured meat companies on every continent, other than Antarctica, and cultured meat has even been produced in space (more on that later). This article takes a look at the global picture of cultured meat, exploring how the emerging technology is evolving across the world. "Cultured Meat 2021-2041", a new report from IDTechEx, explores the world of cultured meat, providing regional level analysis on markets and regulations and forecasting the next 20 years of the cultured meat industry. North America Home to industry heavyweights such as Eat Just, UPSIDE Foods (formerly Memphis Meats), and BlueNalu, the US is the undisputed powerhouse of the cultured meat industry. Mostly stemming from the activity of US companies, North America has seen a surge of investor funding, with the region being overrepresented in terms of money raised  despite only having around 40% of the world's cultured meat companies, North America has seen 57% of the fundraising. This investor enthusiasm stems in part from the growing popularity of meat alternatives in the US. For example, the US plant-based meat industry has grown rapidly over the last five years, stemming from increasing consumer awareness around health and nutrition and concerns over the sustainability of the global meat industry, something that has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic (for more analysis of the global plant-based meat industry, see the recent IDTechEx report "Plant-based Meat 2022-2032"). Cultured meat may be the next step in the journey away from conventional meat, with cell culture theoretically being able to provide exact replicas of conventional meat, right down to the molecular level, but at a fraction of the environmental cost. Reflecting the high levels of funding, North American cultured meat companies are among the most commercially developed. Cultured seafood producer BlueNalu is constructing a 40,000 square foot pilot facility in San Diego, with the aim of launching a commercial product in the US this year, and California-based Eat Just is the first cultured meat company in the world to have received regulatory approval for one of its products, a cultured chicken bite that was approved for commercial sale in Singapore in 2020. North America may even become the second-region to approve cultured meat for commercial sale. The US is heavily rumored to be in the final stages of approving a cultured meat product for commercial sale in the country, likely a cultured seafood product. Cultured seafood is likely to have the simplest path to regulatory approval in the US, as it is set to be solely regulated by the FDA, rather than the fairly complex arrangement between the FDA and USDA for approval of other cultured meat products. However, as of October 2021, these are still rumors and there have been no formal announcements to suggest that cultured meat could be hitting stores and restaurants any time soo in the US. Nevertheless, many in the industry are optimistic  a US regulatory approval would be enormous for the cultured meat industry and would likely see a flood of new money entering the space. US approval would also influence the approval processes in other regions, particularly following a safe and successful market entry.



Asia Despite all the industrial activity in the US and North America, it was Asia that captured the headlines around cultured meat in late 2020 and early 2021 as Singapore became the first region in the world to approve cultured meat for commercial sale in December 2020.

The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) granted approval for cultured chicken produced by Eat Just to be sold in Singapore as an ingredient in nuggets produced by the company. The Singaporean government has historically been supportive of the cultured meat industry. To improve the country's food security, in 2019 the Singaporean government set up the "30 by 30" goal, with the aim of producing 30% of the country's nutritional needs locally by 2030, using technologies including vertical farming and alternative proteins. Following the regulatory approval, Eat Just carried out a limited commercial release, providing "chicken" bites containing a blend of plant-based proteins and cultured chicken cells to one local restaurant. Although the release was more of a proof-of-concept than a serious attempt at commercialization, with Eat Just losing money on each chicken bite sold, the release generated much excitement, both in Singapore and across the wider world. Eat Just has since raised $170 million to focus on scaling up its cultured meat production ahead of a wider release across the country. Outside of Singapore, the picture is a bit less optimistic for the cultured meat industry across the Asia-Pacific region. Despite studies suggesting that East Asian consumers may be more willing to try cultured meat than their US counterparts, the region remains comparatively underfunded  although the Asia-Pacific region has 17% of the world's cultured meat companies, it has only seen 5% of global investor funding into the industry. The regulatory situation is also unclear  outside of Singapore, there is no existing regulatory framework specific to cultured meat anywhere in Asia, although cultured meat was briefly discussed in the 2020 National People's Congress in China. It may be many years before cultured meat products are seen anywhere in Asia, outside of Singapore. Moving away from Asia-Pacific but still staying in Asia, Israel has been a particular focal point for the cultured meat industry. Much like Singapore, food security is a significant concern in Israel, and the country is home to several cultured meat start-ups, including cultured steak producers Aleph Farms and cultured chicken producers Future Meat. Although cultured meat is not approved for commercial sale in the country, consumers can even apply for a table at SuperMeat's "The Chicken" restaurant, where they can taste a prototype cultured chicken burger, although they are not allowed to pay for it. Europe Europe has also seen significant activity in the cultured meat space. The industry was effectively founded here when Dr Mark Post of Maastricht University in the Netherlands demonstrated the world's first cultured meat prototype in 2013 to a room full of journalists in London. Mosa Meat, the company formed from his research, has since become one of the largest companies in the space, having raised almost $100 million in disclosed investment funding. Europe is now the second largest region in terms of the number of cultured meat companies and levels of funding raised, behind North America (although it is third if Asia-Pacific and the Middle East are considered as one region). The European Union also has one of the most well-defined regulatory pathways for cultured meat in the world. Cultured meat is explicitly mentioned in the bloc's "Novel Food Regulation", which sets out a somewhat clear pathway for how a cultured meat company can gain approval to sell its product. In August 2020, a cultured meat research program led by Spanish start-up Biotech Foods was awarded a 2.7 million grant under the EU's Horizon 2020 R&D funding framework, also suggesting that there may be some government support for cultured meat in the EU. However, cultured meat is still probably some distance away from commercial release in the region. It is likely that there will be intense arguments over labeling of cultured meat products, similar to those seen around plant-based substitutes. In the EU, plant-based producers are banned from calling plant-based products "yogurt" or "milk", and some member states have gone even further  France does not allow the use of meat terms like "steak" or "sausage" to describe products, following meat industry lobbies claiming that these terms confuse customers. Additionally, consumers and regulators in Europe have historically been hostile to biotechnology in food. Even now, it is almost impossible to release a food product containing genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the region, and the EU has indicated that it will take a hostile regulatory stance towards the use of gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 in food. Without a change in regulatory attitudes, there is a risk that the EU will be left behind in the next generation of innovative food products. The rest of the world Although North America, Asia, and Europe have seen the most activity, cultured meat is truly a global phenomenon. In South America, Argentina-based Cell Farm Food Tech has become the first cultured meat start-up to be founded in the region, while a Brazil-based meat producer recently partnered with Aleph Farms in a push to bring cultured meat to the region. In Africa, Cape Town-based Mzansi Meat is hoping that its local networks and understanding of African culture will enable it to gain a foothold across the continent. However, challenging cost pressures and a lack of established supply chain infrastructure mean that a successful African commercial release remains a daunting prospect. Cultured meat in space? Cultured meat is not just an Earth-based phenomenon. In 2019, Israeli cultured meat start-up Aleph Farms became the first company to produce cultured meat in space, creating small-scale muscle tissue from bovine cells aboard the International Space Station, using equipment made by 3D Bioprinting Solutions. The company has since launched the Aleph Zero program, which aims to establish cultured meat production equipment in extra-terrestrial environments. US-based Finless Foods has also produced a prototype in space, following a partnership with 3D Bioprinting Solutions. Although the technical barriers to producing cultured meat in space are formidable, space exploration may (eventually) be an ideal market for cultured meat. Food variety and choice is currently extremely limited in space travel, with crew members often losing weight and struggling to achieve adequate nutrition over long missions. This could become a major issue for long-term space missions, such as manned trips to Mars, and could limit the appeal of space tourism over the coming decades. Bioregenerative food systems, i.e., systems that produce fresh food in situ, could provide the necessary nutrients needed for the crew's survival as well as enhancing the psychological wellbeing of the crew. Cultured meat could play a major role here  large quantities of tissue can be produced from a small number of starter cells and the components of growth media can be easily transported in powdered form and reconstituted with water on the production site. The world of cultured meat is evolving rapidly, with the industry looking very different depending on location. For a detailed global perspective on the cultured meat industry, see the recent IDTechEx report "Cultured Meat 2021-2041" About IDTechEx



IDTechEx guides your strategic business decisions through its Research, Subscription and Consultancy products, helping you profit from emerging technologies. For more information, contact [email protected] or visit www.IDTechEx.com. Images download: https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hlgagjq23v1hkky/AAAUIwvv2_YtT1aNq_09C1Zua?dl=0 Media Contact:



Natalie Moreton

Digital Marketing Manager

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[October 26, 2021] Easyvet Secures $7 Million Series A Funding With Relevance Ventures to Advance Growth in Veterinary Care Industry

Easyvet ("easyvet"), a rapidly growing US-based walk-in veterinary clinic group, today announced the close of a $7 million Series A funding round led by Relevance Ventures. Founded in 2013, as the nation's first walk-in veterinary franchise, easyvet is dedicated to making pet care more convenient and affordable for pet parents and clinic ownership easy for veterinarians and investors. The easyvet franchise model is transforming veterinary medicine, lowering the costs of quality care for pets, meeting the needs of pet parents and veterinarians, and allowing more vets the freedom to start their own practice. This round of funding is led by Relevance Ventures, an early-stage investor based in Nashville, TN, and the only non-tribe affiliated, privately owned and operated Native American venture capital firm in the United States. Relevance strategically invests in solutions that make people's lives better and add to the harmonic value of community. "We are thrilled to partner with easyvet, with whom we share many values. We have a deep appreciation for the passion the easyvet team brings to improving the wellbeing of pets and people. They have a compelling vision, a disruptive approach, and a suite of services for the fast-growing pet care market. We are proud to support their mission to reshape the veterinary medicine space," said Cameron Newton, General Partner, Relevance Ventures. "We look forward to joining the easyvet Board and working with them as they position themselves as industry leaders." "We are extremely conscientious when it comes to capital, and in particular how it is being deployed to fuel our growth going forward," said Tim Schoenfelder, easyvet CEO. "We plan to use this capital to grow our resources, expand new hires, increase learning management tools, focus on ways to improve the veterinary experience, and improve technologies that contribute to the success of our frnchisees. Relevance stood out as a partner whose values and 'harmony investing' aligned well with our approach to improving the wellbeing of pets and their owners. Relevance understands our business and the market opportunity, and they appreciate our prudent approach to reimagining veterinary services."



Easyvet offers comprehensive wellness exams, core vaccines, parasite screening and prevention, microchipping, flea, tick and heartworm prevention, behavioral and lifestyle counseling, and more to help pets live longer, happier lives. In the rare case that a pet needs surgery, easyvet has nearby partner practices that will perform pet surgeries. By eliminating in-house surgeries from the menu of pet care services, easyvet can pass on its savings to clients. In addition, easyvet price checks every local veterinary practice in each market to ensure they are providing clients the most affordable rates and packages. "Today's announcement is a meaningful milestone for easyvet and the veterinary care industry," said Dr. Christian Cumberbatch, easyvet Director of Medicine and Franchisee. "With the Series A funding, easyvet will be able to continue providing exceptional veterinary care as well as meet strategic goals in the next phase of growth."

Easyvet is made up of 30 franchisees and continues to grow. With twelve locations open in seven states, easyvet is rapidly expanding and on track to triple in size by 2022. Leasing and construction is underway for the opening of an additional 27 locations across seven states, including Arizona, Florida, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Colorado. ABOUT EASYVET Founded in 2013, easyvet is committed to offering convenient and affordable veterinary care from friendly and compassionate veterinarians and staff. What started as a mission of making pet care convenient and affordable for pet parents, has expanded to include making clinic ownership possible for both doctors and investors. For more information, visit www.easyvet.com. ABOUT RELEVANCE VENTURES Relevance Ventures provides strategic venture assistance and guidance to entrepreneurs working to foster harmony while delivering a positive communal impact. With over $115 million under management, the firm focuses on opportunities within the health & wellness and fintech/enterprise software industries. The firm specializes in identifying proven management teams with a solid business plan to bring harmony to an addressable market of at least $1 billion. Relevance Ventures was founded by Cameron and Dean Newton, and is headquartered in Nashville, Tennessee. The company is currently raising its fourth fund with a targeted size of $75 million. To learn more about Relevance Ventures, please visit their website at www.RelevanceVentures.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005129/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Expereo Achieves Cradlepoint 5G for Enterprise Branch Specialization

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The worlds leading provider of Global Internet, Cloud Access Optimization, SASE and SD-WAN services, Expereo, is proud to announce today that it has achieved 5G for Enterprise Branch Specialization from Cradlepoint , the global leader in cloud-delivered LTE and 5G wireless network edge solutions. The 5G for Enterprise Branch Specialization identifies and recognizes partner organizations that are leaders in positioning and selling Cradlepoints 5G for business solutions by meeting a series of sales, technical, and business proficiency criteria. By receiving the specialization, Expereo will support Cradlepoints efforts of selling the industrys most comprehensive portfolio of 5G solutions to meet the business imperatives of availability, interoperability, security, and manageability. By leveraging Cradlepoints Netcloud solution, Expereo delivers portable network connections that can be used as primary, failover or underlay links. Having no physical transmission medium makes deployment easy with just a 4G/5G-enabled router and ready to use data SIM card(s) from Mobile Operators. This allows backup facilities or temporary offices to instantly connect to the internet and guarantees corporate network connection for when operations are disrupted as a result of disasters or contingency planning. Mobile Broadband can also be used to improve redundancy on SD-WAN and optimize application performance by adding more choice to the underlay, further diversifying current MPLS and Internet components within the SD-WAN environment. Being recognized as a 5G Enterprise Branch specialization showcases Expereos commitment to using the bestof-breed technology as part of its service stack, as well as getting our customer path to 5G for business, explains Catherine Lee, Director Service Development at Expereo. Our customers get the most advanced mobile endpoint equipment there is, access to extra-mile support, and the assurance that the products and services we jointly provide with Cradlepoint will meet the needs enterprise network, he continues.



By combining its NetCloud platform with a clean-sheet-of-paper design for its new 5G modems and antenna systems, Cradlepoint is the first to deliver comprehensive 5G solutions for business. Specific capabilities include combining LTE, Gigabit-Class LTE, and 5G in a single wireless WAN; supporting all 5G spectrums, interoperating with existing customer SD-WAN and router infrastructures; and simplifying the entire network management lifecycle. Cradlepoint is committed to leading the evolution of Wireless WAN and 5G and is both the first and best choice for customers in this space, said Eric Purcell, senior vice president of global partner sales at Cradlepoint. Our reseller, service provider, and technology partners play a crucial role in this mission. The addition of Expereo to our 5G for Enterprise Branch Specialization program is another important step in leading the path to 5G for business.

About Expereo

Expereo is the leading provider of managed network solutions, including Global internet connectivity, SD-WAN, SASE, and Cloud Access Optimization services. Expereo is the trusted partner of 30% of Fortune 500 companies and powers enterprise and government sites worldwide, helping to enhance every business' productivity with flexible and optimal Internet performance. In Feb 2021, Vitruvian Partners international growth capital and buyout firm, acquired a majority stake holding in Expereo, alongside to the leading European private equity firm Apax Partners sas, and company management. About Cradlepoint

Cradlepoin t is a global leader in cloud-delivered LTE and 5G wireless network edge solutions for branch, mobile, and IoT networks. Cradlepoint NetCloud, the personification of the companys Elastic Edge vision, is a subscription-based service with purpose-built endpoints that delivers a pervasive, secure, and software-defined Wireless WAN edge to connect people, places, and things over LTE and 5G cellular networks. More than 22,000 businesses and government agencies around the world rely on Cradlepoint to keep critical sites, points of commerce, field forces, vehicles, and IoT devices always connected and protected, including 75% of the worlds top retailers, 50% of the Fortune 100, and first responder agencies in 25 of the largest US cities. Major service providers use Cradlepoint solutions as the foundation for innovative managed services. Founded in 2006, Cradlepoint is a privately held company headquartered in Boise, Idaho, with a development center in Silicon Valley and international offices in the UK and Australia.

Contact: Conor McGee [email protected]

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[October 26, 2021] Gateway Opens New Mortgage Center in Fishers, Indiana

Gateway (News - Alert) Mortgage Group, a division of Gateway First Bank, announced it has opened a mortgage center in Fishers, Indiana to meet increased demand from local communities for home financing. This brings Gateway's footprint to more than 170 mortgage centers across the United States. Along with the new location, Gateway is excited to announce that Ebe Cotton will be the Mortgage Sales Manager for the mortgage center. He has more than 40 years of mortgage banking experience and personifies Gateway's dedication to putting people first. "I enjoy getting to know my clients, and helping them achieve their home ownership goals," explained Cotton. "The Gateway spirit emphasizes connecting with people to positively impact their lives." Loan originators Lou Schaefer and David Dessauer have joined the team at the Fishers mortgage center, bringing extensive mortgage experience to help customers find the best mortgage available to them. Joey Sandoval provides support to the team and ensures that the lending processing goes smoothly. "We're proud to be a part of the Gateway team," concluded Cotton. "As a company, Gateway donates $5 of every loan to Folds of Honor, which now tops $500,000 in donations since the beginning of the partnership five years ago." Gateway funded more than $11.3 billion in mortgage loans in 2020. Even with the tightening housing market, 2021 has brought outstanding production volume with the first 9 months just slightly below the 2020 record levels and above 2019, which was also a record-setting year. Refinance activity remains strong due to continued low interst rates.



"Gateway continues to grow and expand its footprint to meet the increasing demand from local communities for home financing," said Scott Gesell, CEO of Gateway. "We are committed to the families and communities we serve. Our momentum is a testament to our team members' persistent focus on connecting with people to positively impact their lives." "Since joining Gateway in February of this year, I have been amazed by the team's commitment to providing customers top-level customer service," said Steven Plaisance, President of Mortgage Banking for Gateway. "Part of that commitment is through a growth strategy of expanding to new communities where more customers can enjoy the Gateway experience of putting people first."

About Gateway First Bank Gateway First Bank is a leading financial institution that provides banking and mortgage services for consumers and commercial customers. Headquartered in Jenks, Oklahoma, Gateway is a $1.9 billion asset sized bank with a strong mortgage operation. Gateway is one of the largest banking and mortgage operations in the United States with six bank branches in Oklahoma, over 170 mortgage centers in 42 states, and almost 1,600 employees. Learn more at www.GatewayFirst.com. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender (NMLS 7233) Follow Gateway First on Facebook (News - Alert) (https://www.facebook.com/GatewayFirstBank/), LinkedIn (News - Alert) (https://www.linkedin.com/company/gatewayfirst/) and Twitter (News - Alert) (https://twitter.com/Gateway1st). View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005806/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Grant Thornton names San Francisco Partner Melanie Krygier as the firm's Private Equity Tax Growth leader

Grant Thornton (News - Alert) LLP, a leading audit, tax and advisory firm, has named Melanie Krygier the Growth leader of the firm's Private Equity Tax practice. Krygier, a San Francisco-based partner and leader of Grant Thornton's M&A Tax Services West Coast practice, will join the Private Equity leadership team and focus on supporting private equity clients engaged in mergers and acquisitions (M&A). "Melanie's extraordinary tax knowledge and years of experience helping private equity investors and their portfolio companies through M&A will be incredibly valuable for every client she works with," said Carlos Ferreira, Grant Thornton's national managing partner of Private Equity. "The private equity space is always evolving, and the pandemic has only accelerated that evolution. This space demands the creative, confident and decisive leadership Melanie provides." Krygier has more than 15 years of experience serving public and private companies across multiple industries. After a successful seven-year stint with another national professional services firm, she joined Grant Thornton in 2013. For nearly 10 years, she has primarily focused on consulting in M&A. Specifically, Krygier has conducted buy-side and sell-side tax due diligence, as well as tax structuring and modeling for clients that are contemplating potential sales, purchases or restructurings. Krygier has also assisted clients in navigating tax-free reorganizations, particularly in connection with special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) transactions. Her in-depth transaction knowledge will be an asset for companies who need a deft hand to guide them through the often-complex tax implications of a merger or acquisition. According to a recent M&A survey conducted by Grant Thornton, the increase of SPACs is likely to continue. Furthermore, the recent surge of M&A activity could be a catalyst for new challenges, including a new kind of earnout disputes. These findings reveal the importance of a skilled leader like Krygier.



"As M&A activity becomes even more common, it is absolutely critical for every company to derive the most value possible from what can be a very complex, labor-intensive process," said Rimma Tabakh, Grant Thornton's office managing partner in San Francisco. "Melanie will provide detailed and reliable guidance at a time when companies need it more than ever." "She is an inspiring and highly collaborative professional," continued Tabakh, "who will uplift all of our team members in San Francisco and will be a valuable role model to women in a space that has historically been dominated by men."

In this new leadership role, Krygier succeeds Chris Schenkenberg, who has taken on a new role for the firm's Tax leadership team as Regional Tax Business Lines national managing partner. Krygier earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Michigan State University. "Melanie is a talented and knowledgeable leader who has an innate ability to embrace bold new journeys and create immediate and lasting impact in professional services," concluded Renato Zanichelli, Grant Thornton's national managing partner of Tax Services. "Her track record of providing high-performance business solutions and effective tax strategies makes her the perfect person to lead this team and help our clients thrive." To learn more about Grant Thornton's Private Equity and M&A services, visit www.grantthornton.com/industries/private-equity and www.grantthornton.com/services/advisory-services/mergers-and-acquisitions. About Grant Thornton LLP

Founded in Chicago in 1924, Grant Thornton LLP (Grant Thornton) is the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd, one of the world's leading organizations of independent audit, tax and advisory firms. Grant Thornton, which has revenues of $1.97 billion and operates more than 50 offices, works with a broad range of dynamic publicly and privately held companies, government agencies, financial institutions, and civic and religious organizations. "Grant Thornton" refers to Grant Thornton LLP, the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL). GTIL and the member firms are not a worldwide partnership. Services are delivered by the member firms. GTIL and its member firms are not agents of, and do not obligate, one another and are not liable for one another's acts or omissions. Please see grantthornton.com for further details. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005247/en/

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[October 26, 2021] HP and WWF Announce Bold Partnership Expansion to Conserve and Restore Forests

Collaboration aims to ensure paper printed with an HP product or service will help restore, protect and improve the health of forests by 20301 News highlights: Announces WWFs largest U.S. corporate partnership to-date

Pledges $80 million 2 to expand its partnership with WWF to address the impacts on forests from printing  with HP printers

to expand its partnership with WWF to address the impacts on forests from printing with HP printers Partners to restore, protect, and improve the management of nearly 1 million acres of forest landscapes, an area approximately five times the size of New York City

HP is one of the first technology companies to address its broader impacts on nature associated with its products and services

WWF joins HPs Sustainable Forest Collaborative ahead of COP26 PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, in advance of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP26), HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) announced an $80 million partnership expansion with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) to further its commitment to forest conservation as part of HPs comprehensive climate action strategy. By doing so, HP raises the bar for corporate leadership on nature-based solutions as the first company to pilot science-based targets for forests with WWF and becomes WWFs largest U.S. corporate partner to-date. While HP already maintains zero-deforestation status for its HP paper and paper-based packaging, this collaboration will support HPs growing series of commitments to forest conservation around the world. It will also enable HP to make progress on its goal to counterbalance forest resources attributable to non-HP paper used in its products and print services by 2030. Nearly half of all global forests are under threat of deforestation and forest degradation. This represents a major risk to biodiversity, water, people and businesses that depend on healthy forests. Research shows that nature-based solutions, such as sustainable land management and forest protection and restoration, can contribute up to 30 percent of the climate mitigation needed by 2050 to meet the Paris Agreements objective of limiting climate change to 1.5oC. Conserving forests is one of the ways HP is combating climate change. At HP, we understand this decade is critical for addressing climate change. Given the impact forests have on the air we breathe, habitats for wildlife, and the livelihoods of communities around the world, they are critical for human survival as well as material to our business, said James McCall, chief sustainability officer, HP Inc. This partnership is designed to help counterbalance every page printed on an HP printer by regenerating critical forest ecosystems globally. Forest positive printing has the potential to ensure a better future for everyone, everywhere. HP first announced its Forest Positive vision for print in 2019,3 pledging to give back to the forest more than it takes. To realize its Forest Positive vision, HP and its partners are working together to conserve vital forest ecosystems.



To truly solve the dual climate and nature crises, we need companies to go even further than their immediate supply chains, said Carter Roberts, president & CEO of WWF. Solving these problems means taking responsibility for emissions and environmental impacts from the entire life cycle of a companys products. By pledging to address forest resources used for paper outside its supply chain, HP is accelerating ambition for corporate climate and nature commitments. And by helping us pioneer the development of science-based targets for forests, HP is building a road map for others to follow. A First-of-Its-Kind Partnership

This expanded $80 million partnership with WWF will address 17 million metric tons of paper used in both consumer and commercial HP printers over 10 years. That is equivalent to sustainably managing, restoring and protecting nearly 1 million acres (384,000 hectares) of forest. By regenerating forest health at a scale that considers not just HP brand paper but the total amount of paper run through its printers, HP is making a bold commitment to protect nature as one of the first technology companies to consider its broader downstream environmental impact in addition to its carbon emissions from its own operations and value chain.

This announcement also builds on HPs support of WWFs development of science-based targets for forests. HP is the first company to pilot science-based targets for forests by applying a new methodology developed by WWF to estimate the impacts more comprehensively on forestlands from printing. Based on those estimated impacts, HP will protect, restore and improve the management of a requisite area of forests. Models developed with funding from HP will help identify key regions of the world for forest conservation and better estimate the carbon and nature benefits of forest actions. HP is helping advance this new movement to ensure nature-based solutions are informed by the best available science and protecting co-benefits forest ecosystems provide for people, plants and animals. Accelerating Our Impact

Prior to this expansion, HP and WWF began working together in September 2019 to harness nature-based solutions to deliver on biodiversity conservation, clean water and air, and climate resilience in Brazils threatened Atlantic Forest and Chinas Fujian, Guangxi and Guangdong provinces. Over the past two years, WWF and HP engaged over 50 local institutions in Brazils Atlantic Forest in native forest restoration and 54 community members in China to ensure the responsible management of their bamboo and forest lands. In support of the Raizes do Mogi Guacu project in Brazil, 158 acres of land are under restoration. In China, over 35,257 acres of bamboo and mixed forests are now under Forest Stewardship Council smallholder certification. HP and WWF have also been working together for over a decade on responsible sourcing, and HP is now part of Forests Forward, WWFs new program to engage business, communities and other key forest stakeholders to help transform the way we value, manage, protect and restore forests to sustain business, people and nature. As part of this partnership expansion, WWF is also joining HPs Sustainable Forest Collaborative, a cross-industry collaboration to demonstrate scientific and commercially viable approaches to keep working forest ecosystems healthy. Learn More Visit the following links for more details: HPs Sustainable Impact Website

WWF 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 . Vanessa Forbes, HP

[email protected] Tom Suiter, HP

[email protected] www.hp.com/go/newsroom 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 Fiber by weight will be 1) certified to rigorous third-party standards, 2) recycled or 3) balanced by forest restoration, protection, and other initiatives through HPs Forest Positive Framework. Paper does not include fiber-based substrates for HP industrial presses not listed in HP Media Solutions Locator catalogues. HP 2020 Sustainable Impact Report.

2 Pursuant to agreement between WWF and HP dated January 1, 2022.

3 HP Forest Positive Framework is a strategic foundation for delivering on HP forest ambitions.



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[October 26, 2021] InfraX Constructs a High-Quality Network for its Staff with Huawei AirEngine Wi-Fi 6

DUBAI, UAE, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is also one of the fastest-growing in the whole world. Indeed, through the Dubai Future Foundation, the Dubai 10X initiative aims to propel Dubai into the future, positioning the city 10 years ahead of other global cities. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) is the exclusive provider of electricity and water services in Dubai. To reimagine the role of the utility sector, DEWA launched Digital DEWA in order to create a new digital future for the city. Indeed, Digital DEWA plays a leading role in the adoption of digital technologies across its four pillars  solar energy, energy storage, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and digital services  making it the world's first digital utility provider to use autonomous systems for renewable energy, storage, and digital services: as such, it's an enthusiastic adopter of nascent AI. InfraX, the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) arm of Digital DEWA, focuses on connecting its customers with value added services from its data centers and the cloud. To this end, InfraX owns a secure, reliable, and independent super-fast fiber optics network that meets the smart needs of the future applications promised in the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The Need for Communication Infrastructure DEWA recently built a new staff campus in Jebel Ali Power Station, located southwest of Dubai, including two staff accommodation blocks and two multifunctional buildings that provide End to End (E2E) daily services for employees who live there. It was imperative to provide high-quality communication infrastructure across all these buildings and InfraX, as the body responsible for network planning and deployment, opted for high-quality Wi-Fi networks, characterized by enhanced performance in erms of bandwidth, latency, and network management.



Before this project began, accommodation networks in different DEWA staff campuses were operated and maintained separately, involving high maintenance costs, both in terms of time and money. These legacy networks provided a far from acceptable experience, complicating everything from simple file downloads to other mobile working tasks, including remote conferencing, which suffered from network latency, limited bandwidth, and occasional packet loss. Grasping the opportunities the new project presented, InfraX set up a single platform located in the Network Operations Center (NOC), centralizing the management of all accommodation networks. Going forward, this control platform will support further expansion of the company's accommodation networks in the future. Huawei Cloud-Managed Network with the Latest AirEngine Wi-Fi 6 Technologies

The cooperation between Huawei and InfraX provides a solution that meets a range of needs. All-wireless access through AirEngine Wi-Fi 6 Access Points (APs), offering ultra-bandwidth up to the Gbit/s level and forwarding latency as low as 10 ms. Support for a rich range of Internet of Things (IoT) standards will meet the needs of various intelligent services over the next five to 10 years.

offering ultra-bandwidth up to the Gbit/s level and forwarding latency as low as 10 ms. Support for a rich range of Internet of Things (IoT) standards will meet the needs of various intelligent services over the next five to 10 years. Proper two-layer campus network architecture. Access and core layer network architecture brings with it far easier Operations and Maintenance (O&M). And with latency vastly improved, the network is tailored for the future campus networks of tomorrow, in particular the need for massive terminal connections and ultrafast service access in the Wi-Fi 6 era. The use of far greener fixed switches also reduces power consumption and the physical footprint.

Access and core layer network architecture brings with it far easier Operations and Maintenance (O&M). And with latency vastly improved, the network is tailored for the future campus networks of tomorrow, in particular the need for massive terminal connections and ultrafast service access in the Wi-Fi 6 era. The use of far greener fixed switches also reduces power consumption and the physical footprint. A unified Managed Service Provider (MSP) cloud-managed operations platform, based on Huawei iMaster NCE. While three physical servers in a cluster provide ultra-high reliability, the platform smoothly supports expansion in the future. When additional devices need to come online, new licenses can simply be added, dramatically reducing both Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) and Operating Expenditure (OPEX). By integrating big data, AI, and Software-Defined Networking (SDN) technologies, this solution offers one-stop automation and intelligent O&M, delivering high-quality wired and wireless services. It also enables automatic service provisioning, ensures an intelligent experience, and increases security protection. In short, it meets the performance levels that the wide variety of digital terminals and applications of tomorrow will require, today. Forward-Looking Cooperation The solution is forward-looking networking infrastructure based on Wi-Fi 6 standards. It builds a smart living environment for DEWA's staff, with enhanced network features, from ultra-broadband and high user concurrency to low latency, providing a good user experience and therefore boosting employee satisfaction. And such infrastructure paves the road to diverse new digital services, so employees can live smarter lives. Click here to explore more industrial digital transformation stories from the Intelligent IP Pioneers webpage.

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[October 26, 2021] LogMeIn Introduces GoToConnect Legal, a Collaboration Solution Built for Legal Professionals

BOSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- LogMeIn, Inc., a leading provider of cloud-based solutions such as GoToConnect, GoToMeeting, LastPass, and Rescue, today announced a new version of its unified communications as a service (UCaaS) platform, GoToConnect Legal, tailored to address the needs of those in the legal profession by streamlining collaboration with clients and colleagues to maximize billable hours. Todays legal professionals need a UCaaS solution that allows them to minimize unbilled time, maximize revenue, manage regulations from governing bodies, and maintain high security in their practice. According to a study by Clio, a leading technology provider in the legal space, the average lawyer is only billing 2.3 hours daily. Another study found that 37 percent of consumers prefer to meet virtually with a lawyer for a consultation or first meeting, and 50 percent would rather conduct follow-up meetings through video conference. GoToConnect Legal helps to solve these common problems by enabling lawyers to securely meet with their clients virtually while also integrating with some of the most used legal tools for easy billing and tracking. With GoToConnect Legal, customers can: Maximize billable time : Accurately track time through integrations with several practice management suites, including Clio and LawGro, and more coming in the futue. Relevant activity from Outlook, Google, Chrome, Fastcase, Westlaw, and Casetext is automatically filed in timesheets with a single click

: Accurately track time through integrations with several practice management suites, including Clio and LawGro, and more coming in the futue. Relevant activity from Outlook, Google, Chrome, Fastcase, Westlaw, and Casetext is automatically filed in timesheets with a single click Streamline call logs: Log the time spent on GoTo calls and messaging directly into Clio, so all relevant client information is in one place

Log the time spent on GoTo calls and messaging directly into Clio, so all relevant client information is in one place Easily schedule meetings: Schedule client and internal meetings via Calendly and create video meetings directly from your calendar

Schedule client and internal meetings via Calendly and create video meetings directly from your calendar Benefit from a robust and secure UCaaS solution: Maintain professional and secure client interactions with GoToConnects industry-leading security and up-time. Features such as Find Me / Follow Me, CallFlip, video and audio meetings, messaging, contact center capabilities, and more give law professionals the functionality they need for productive communication with clients



In addition to the new legal version of GoToConnect, LogMeIn has also recently launched additional contact center capabilities with its GoTo Contact offering, along with an updated unified admin system.

GoToConnects solutions are designed to be quickly deployed in one day, even while teams are working fully remote. GoToConnect Legal is currently available in North America. GoToConnect is currently available in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, United Kingdom, Germany, Ireland, and Australia?. For more information, please visit: www.goto.com/legal-communication About LogMeIn, Inc.

LogMeIn, Inc.s category-defining products, such as GoTo, LastPass, Rescue, LogMeIn Central, and more, unlock the potential of the modern workforce by making it possible for millions of people and businesses around the globe to do their best work simply and securelyon any device, from any location and at any time. A pioneer in remote work technology and a driving force behind todays work-from-anywhere movement, LogMeIn has become one of the worlds largest SaaS companies with tens of millions of active users, more than 3,500 global employees, over $1.3 billion in annual revenue, and approximately 2 million customers worldwide who use its software as an essential part of their daily lives. The company is headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, with additional locations in North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and thousands of home offices around the globe. Media Contact

Jen Mathews

[email protected]

617-279-2443



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[October 26, 2021] Myovant Sciences Announces Financial Results for Second Quarter of Fiscal Year 2021 and Corporate Updates

Second fiscal quarter 2021 total revenues of $77.9 million; net product revenue from U.S. sales of ORGOVYX  of $18.7 million and MYFEMBREE  of $0.6 million

of $18.7 million and MYFEMBREE of $0.6 million Estimated 8,000 cumulative patients treated with ORGOVYX through September 2021, including patients on commercial and free drug; Approximately 600 cumulative patients treated with MYFEMBREE through September 2021 including patients on commercial drug and free drug programs, excluding patients utilizing product samples

MYFEMBREE supplemental New Drug Application for the management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis accepted for review by FDA in September 2021; FDA target action date is May 6, 2022

RYEQO  approved in the European Union and United Kingdom; Gedeon Richter launched RYEQO in seven countries

approved in the European Union and United Kingdom; Gedeon Richter launched RYEQO in seven countries Phase 3 SERENE study evaluating MYFEMBREE for the prevention of pregnancy resumed in August 2021 following study protocol amendments; initial patients dosed in October 2021

Assessing partnership opportunities with multiple interested parties for international rights to relugolix in oncology following Pfizers decision to decline its option based on their assessment of their current strategic investment priorities in international markets; no impact to collaboration in U.S. and Canada

Myovant remains well-capitalized with cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities, and committed funding of $657.3 million as of September 30, 2021

BASEL, Switzerland, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Myovant Sciences (NYSE: MYOV), a healthcare company focused on redefining care for women and for men, today announced financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2021 and other corporate updates. During our second fiscal quarter, we continued to make significant progress on the commercial launches of ORGOVYX and MYFEMBREE, enabling our mission to redefine care and positioning Myovant for long-term success. ORGOVYX launch momentum continued to build with net product revenues of $18.7 million, representing 78% sequential growth compared to the previous quarter, and reflecting increased patient and clinician demand for the differentiated clinical profile of ORGOVYX. Our team remains passionate about improving the lives of men with advanced prostate cancer by providing the first and only approved oral medication capable of rapidly and profoundly reducing testosterone levels without an initial hormonal surge, said David Marek, Chief Executive Officer of Myovant Sciences, Inc. Mr. Marek added, We are also encouraged by the early launch progress for MYFEMBREE as we bring this important new treatment option to women in the U.S. with symptomatic uterine fibroids. Sequential growth since launch across key metrics, including cumulative patients on therapy and enrollments to the MYFEMBREE patient support hub, coupled with increasing prescriber awareness and recent improvements in payer coverage gives us confidence that MYFEMBREE is being positioned for long-term success. Additionally, the FDA in August lifted the partial clinical hold on the Phase 3 SERENE study following certain protocol amendments, and in September, accepted our supplemental New Drug Application seeking to extend approval of MYFEMBREE to include women with endometriosis, with a decision expected by May 6, 2022. Second Fiscal Quarter 2021 and Recent Corporate Updates ORGOVYX (relugolix 120 mg) Second fiscal quarter 2021 net product revenues for ORGOVYX in the U.S. were $18.7 million, driven by increased prescriber demand.

Approximately 1,500 treatment centers have prescribed ORGOVYX to approximately 8,000 patients on free and commercial drug, estimated through September 30, 2021. The cumulative number of estimated patients initiating ORGOVYX therapy has continued to increase steadily in each successive month since launch.

As of October 1, 2021, Myovant achieved 76% commercial coverage and 81% Medicare Part D coverage for ORGOVYX. Myovant achieved broad coverage for ORGOVYX in advance of its calendar year-end 2021 goal but continues to engage in negotiations with payors yet to make a coverage decision. Myovant expects broad commercial and Part D coverage for ORGOVYX to continue in calendar-year 2022.

MYFEMBREE (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1.0 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) Second fiscal quarter 2021 net product revenues for MYFEMBREE in the U.S. were $0.6 million, primarily reflecting a continuation of initial inventory stocking. Modest demand-driven re-orders to replenish launch inventories began in September 2021.

Approximately 600 patients have initiated treatment through September 30, 2021, including patients on commercial drug and free drug programs, excluding patients utilizing product samples.

As of October 8, 2021, Myovant achieved 61% commercial coverage for MYFEMBREE. Myovant continues to engage in coverage negotiations with key commercial payors yet to make a coverage decision and remains on track to achieve its goal of broad coverage within one year of launch.

In October 2021, Myovant and Pfizer presented data from clinical studies of MYFEMBREE at the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) 2021 Congress, including results of the Phase 3 LIBERTY randomized withdrawal study, which was designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of relugolix combination therapy for up to two years in women with heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids, and was designated an ASRM Prize Paper. Additional data presentations at ASRM included data from the SPIRIT 1 and 2 studies of women with pain associated with endometriosis as well as pooled safety and tolerability data from the LIBERTY and SPIRIT clinical programs.

In September 2021, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) accepted Myovants supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for MYFEMBREE for the management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis, setting a target action date of May 6, 2022. FDA approval of MYFEMBREE for this indication would trigger a $100.0 million regulatory milestone payment from Pfizer.

In August 2021, the FDA informed Myovant that the partial clinical hold for the Phase 3 SERENE study evaluating MYFEMBREE for the prevention of pregnancy was lifted following study protocol amendments. The amended SERENE study protocol will evaluate the contraceptive efficacy of MYFEMBREE in women with heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids or endometriosis-associated pain who are 18 to 50 years of age and at risk for pregnancy, and includes bone mineral density monitoring for patients during and after treatment. Patient screening with this updated protocol began in September 2021, with initial patients dosed in October 2021.

The FDA approval of MYFEMBREE in May 2021 for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in the U.S. triggered a $100.0 million regulatory milestone payment from Pfizer, which Myovant received in July 2021.

RYEQO (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1.0 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) On July 16, 2021 and August 9, 2021, the European Commission (EC) and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency, respectively, approved RYEQO for the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of uterine fibroids in adult women of reproductive age. RYEQO is the first and only long-term, once-daily oral treatment for uterine fibroids with no limitation on its duration of use approved in the European Union and the United Kingdom. Gedeon Richter (Richter), Myovants commercialization partner for RYEQO in Europe and certain other international markets, launched RYEQO in seven countries since these regulatory approvals.

The approval of RYEQO for the uterine fibroids indication by the EC triggered a $15.0 million regulatory milestone payment from Richter, which Myovant received and recorded as Richter license and milestone revenue in its second fiscal quarter of 2021. Pfizer Option On October 22, 2021, Myovant was notified by Pfizer of their decision to decline the exclusive option for international commercialization and development rights (excluding Canada and certain Asian countries) to relugolix in oncology, as offered under the December 2020 collaboration agreement between the two companies. Pfizers decision is based on their assessment of their current strategic investment priorities in international markets and does not impact the companies collaboration in the U.S. and Canada for ORGOVYX and MYFEMBREE. Myovant is currently assessing partnership opportunities with multiple interested parties, focusing on potential partners with a European commercial presence in urology or oncology.

Executive Appointments On September 7, 2021, Uneek Mehra was appointed Chief Financial and Business Officer of Myovant Sciences, Inc. Concurrent with this appointment, Mr. Mehra was also appointed Principal Financial Officer of Myovant Sciences Ltd.

Expected Upcoming Milestones FDA submission of the Phase 3 LIBERTY randomized withdrawal study results for MYFEMBREE in women with uterine fibroids is expected by the end of calendar year 2021 or in the first quarter of calendar year 2022.

Two-year data from the SPIRIT long-term extension study of MYFEMBREE in women with endometriosis-associated pain is expected in the first quarter of calendar year 2022.

FDA decision for the MYFEMBREE sNDA seeking approval for the management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis is expected by its May 6, 2022 target action date. FDA approval of MYFEMBREE for this indication would trigger a $100.0 million regulatory milestone payment from Pfizer.

EC decision on the advanced prostate cancer Marketing Authorisation Application is expected in mid-calendar year 2022.

European Medicines Agency regulatory submission for RYEQO for the treatment of women with endometriosis-associated pain is expected in calendar year 2022. Richter will be the sponsor.

Second Fiscal Quarter 2021 Financial Summary Total revenues for the three months ended September 30, 2021 were $77.9 million. There were no such revenues in the three months ended September 30, 2020. Product revenue, net from sales of ORGOVYX and MYFEMBREE in the U.S. for the three months ended September 30, 2021 were $18.7 million and $0.6 million, respectively. For the three months ended September 30, 2021 product revenue, net also includes revenues related to product supply to Richter of $1.7 million, as well as royalties on net sales of RYEQO in Richters Territory of less than $0.1 million. There was no such revenue recorded in the comparable prior year period.

from sales of ORGOVYX and MYFEMBREE in the U.S. for the three months ended September 30, 2021 were $18.7 million and $0.6 million, respectively. For the three months ended September 30, 2021 product revenue, net also includes revenues related to product supply to Richter of $1.7 million, as well as royalties on net sales of RYEQO in Richters Territory of less than $0.1 million. There was no such revenue recorded in the comparable prior year period. Pfizer collaboration revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $25.2 million, reflecting the partial recognition of the upfront payment Myovant received from Pfizer in December 2020 and of the regulatory milestone payment that was triggered upon the FDA approval of MYFEMBREE for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in May 2021. There was no such revenue recorded in the comparable prior year period.

for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $25.2 million, reflecting the partial recognition of the upfront payment Myovant received from Pfizer in December 2020 and of the regulatory milestone payment that was triggered upon the FDA approval of MYFEMBREE for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in May 2021. There was no such revenue recorded in the comparable prior year period. Richter license and milestone revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $31.7 million, reflecting recognition of the remaining $16.7 million of previously deferred revenue as a result of Myovants delivery of the remaining substantive relugolix combination tablet data packages to Richter pursuant to the Richter Development and Commercialization Agreement, and the $15.0 million regulatory milestone payment triggered by the EC approval of RYEQO for the uterine fibroids indication. There was no such revenue in the three months ended September 30, 2020.

Cost of product revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $2.6 million related to the cost of goods sold and royalty expense payable to Takeda pursuant to the Takeda License Agreement. There were no such amounts recognized in the comparable prior year period. Collaboration expense to Pfizer for the three months ended September 30, 2021, was $8.6 million, reflecting Pfizers 50% share of net profits from sales of ORGOVYX and MYFEMBREE in the U.S., pursuant to the Pfizer Collaboration and License Agreement. There were no such amounts recognized in the comparable prior year period. Research and development (R&D) expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2021, were $26.3 million compared to $40.5 million for the comparable prior year period. The decrease in R&D expenses reflects cost share reimbursements from Pfizer for certain R&D expenses and a reduction in clinical study costs as a result of the completion and wind down of Myovants Phase 3 LIBERTY, HERO, and SPIRIT studies. This decrease was partially offset by an increase in medical affairs personnel expenses to support the U.S. launches of ORGOVYX and MYFEMBREE. Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2021, were $58.8 million compared to $31.3 million for the comparable prior year period. The increase was primarily due to higher expenses to support the ORGOVYX and MYFEMBREE U.S. launches, including higher personnel-related costs primarily due to the hiring of Myovants commercial operations, marketing, and market access teams, as well as the oncology and womens health sales forces, and higher general overhead expenses to support Myovants organizational growth. Interest expense was $3.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2021, compared to $2.1 million for the comparable prior year period. The increase in interest expense was primarily driven by the higher balance under Myovants loan agreement with Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma (Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Loan Agreement) and $0.6 million of accretion of the financing component of the cost share advance from Pfizer. Foreign exchange gain for the three months ended September 30, 2020 was $6.7 million, primarily the result of the impact of fluctuations in the foreign currency exchange rate between the Swiss franc and the U.S. dollar on Myovants outstanding balance under the Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Loan Agreement. As a result of a change in the functional currency of Myovants wholly-owned subsidiary in Switzerland, Myovant Sciences GmbH, from the Swiss franc to the U.S. dollar in December 2020, Myovant is no longer exposed to significant foreign currency gains or losses. Net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2021 was $21.6 million compared to $67.1 million for the comparable prior year period. On a per common share basis, net loss was $0.23 and $0.75 for the three months ended September 30, 2021 and 2020, respectively. Capital resources: Cash, cash equivalents, marketable securities, and amounts available under the Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Loan Agreement totaled $657.3 million as of September 30, 2021, and consisted of $616.0 million of cash, cash equivalents, and marketable securities and $41.3 million of available borrowing capacity under the Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Loan Agreement. Conference Call

As previously announced, Myovant will hold a webcast and conference call at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (5:30 a.m. Pacific Time) today, October 26, 2021, to discuss financial results for its second fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2021 and corporate updates. Investors and the general public may access a live webcast of the call by visiting the investor relations page of Myovants website at investors.myovant.com. Institutional investors and analysts may also participate in the conference call by dialing 1-800-532-3746 in the U.S. or +1-470-495-9166 from outside the U.S. The webcast will be archived on Myovants Investor Relations website following the call. About Relugolix

Relugolix is a once-daily, oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist that reduces testicular testosterone, a hormone known to stimulate the growth of prostate cancer, and ovarian estradiol, a hormone known to stimulate the growth of uterine fibroids and endometriosis. ORGOVYX (relugolix 120 mg) was approved in the U.S. by the FDA in December 2020 as the first and only oral GnRH receptor antagonist for the treatment of adult patients with advanced prostate cancer, and relugolix (120 mg) is also under regulatory review in Europe for men with advanced prostate cancer. MYFEMBREE (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1.0 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) was approved in the U.S. by the FDA in May 2021 as the first and only once-daily oral treatment for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women, and by the European Commission and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency in July 2021 and August 2021, respectively, as RYEQO for the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of uterine fibroids in adult women of reproductive age. In September 2021, the FDA accepted Myovant Sciences supplemental New Drug Application for MYFEMBREE for the management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis, setting a target action date of May 6, 2022. MYFEMBREE is also being assessed for contraceptive efficacy in women who are 18 to 50 years of age and at risk for pregnancy. About Myovant Sciences

Myovant Sciences aspires to redefine care for women and for men through purpose-driven science, empowering medicines, and transformative advocacy. Founded in 2016, Myovant Sciences has two FDA-approved products. ORGOVYX (relugolix) was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2020 as the first and only oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) receptor antagonist for the treatment of adult patients with advanced prostate cancer, and relugolix is also under regulatory review in Europe for men with advanced prostate cancer. Relugolix combination tablet (relugolix 40 mg, estradiol 1.0 mg, and norethindrone acetate 0.5 mg) was approved in 2021 in the U.S. as MYFEMBREE as the first once-daily treatment for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids in premenopausal women, and by the European Commission and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency as RYEQO for the treatment of moderate to severe symptoms of uterine fibroids in adult women of reproductive age. Myovant Sciences filed a supplemental New Drug Application for MYFEMBREE for the management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis, which was accepted for review by the FDA in September 2021. MYFEMBREE is also being assessed for the prevention of pregnancy. Myovant Sciences is also developing MVT-602, an oligopeptide kisspeptin-1 receptor agonist, which has completed a Phase 2a study for female infertility as part of assisted reproduction. Sumitovant Biopharma, Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd., is Myovant Sciences majority shareholder. For more information, please visit www.myovant.com. Follow @Myovant on Twitter and LinkedIn. About Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.

Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is among the top-ten listed pharmaceutical companies in Japan, operating globally in major pharmaceutical markets, including the U.S., Japan, China, and the European Union. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is based on the merger in 2005 between Dainippon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., and Sumitomo Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. Today, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma has more than 6,000 employees worldwide. Additional information about Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is available through its corporate website at https://www.ds-pharma.com. About Sumitovant Biopharma Ltd.

Sumitovant is a global biopharmaceutical company with offices in New York City and London. Sumitovant is the majority shareholder of Myovant, and wholly owns Urovant Sciences, Enzyvant Therapeutics, Spirovant Sciences, and Altavant Sciences. Sumitovants pipeline is comprised of commercialized and investigational medicines across a range of disease areas targeting high unmet need. Sumitovant is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma. For further information about Sumitovant, please visit https://www.sumitovant.com. Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this press release, forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, all statements reflecting Myovant Sciences expectations, including but not limited to: statements regarding Myovants aspiration to redefine care for women and for men; Myovants expectations of the success of commercialization of its approved drug products; Myovants expectation of broad commercial and Part D coverage for ORGOVYX in calendar-year 2022; the statement that Myovant remains on track to achieve its goal of broad coverage for MYFEMBREE within one year of launch; and the statements under the heading Expected Upcoming Milestones.

Myovant Sciences forward-looking statements are based on managements current expectations and beliefs and are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties, assumptions, and other factors known and unknown that could cause actual results and the timing of certain events to differ materially from future results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including unforeseen circumstances or other disruptions to normal business operations arising from or related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Myovant Sciences cannot assure you that the events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur and actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Factors that could materially affect Myovant Sciences operations and future prospects or which could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations include, but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties listed in Myovant Sciences filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), including under the heading Risk Factors in Myovant Sciences Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to be filed on October 26, 2021, as such risk factors may be amended, supplemented, or superseded from time to time. These risks are not exhaustive. New risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for Myovant Sciences management to predict all risk factors, nor can Myovant Sciences assess the impact of all factors on its business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. You should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements in this press release, which speak only as of the date hereof, and, except as required by law, Myovant Sciences undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

MYOVANT SCIENCES LTD.

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations

(Unaudited, in thousands, except share and per share data) Three Months Ended September 30, Six Months Ended September 30, 2021 2020 2021 2020 Revenues: Product revenue, net $ 21,063 $  $ 32,617 $  Pfizer collaboration revenue 25,172  54,681  Richter license and milestone revenue 31,667  31,667 33,333 Total revenues 77,902  118,965 33,333 Operating costs and expenses: Cost of product revenue 2,622  3,654  Collaboration expense to Pfizer 8,565  13,826  Research and development (1) 26,280 40,521 57,160 84,707 Selling, general and administrative (1) 58,781 31,316 119,993 54,144 Total operating costs and expenses 96,248 71,837 194,633 138,851 Loss from operations (18,346 ) (71,837 ) (75,668 ) (105,518 ) Interest expense 3,494 2,115 6,999 4,299 Interest income (100 ) (38 ) (178 ) (146 ) Foreign exchange gain  (6,718 )  (10,287 ) Loss before income taxes (21,740 ) (67,196 ) (82,489 ) (99,384 ) Income tax (benefit) expense (149 ) (134 ) 762 538 Net loss $ (21,591 ) $ (67,062 ) $ (83,251 ) $ (99,922 ) Net loss per common share  basic and diluted $ (0.23 ) $ (0.75 ) $ (0.90 ) $ (1.12 ) Weighted average common shares outstanding  basic and diluted 92,355,150 89,744,142 92,019,987 89,523,389 (1) Includes the following share-based compensation: Research and development $ 5,060 $ 3,725 $ 9,167 $ 7,749 Selling, general and administrative 6,803 3,199 13,958 6,987 Total share-based compensation expense $ 11,863 $ 6,924 $ 23,125 $ 14,736





Product revenue, net: ORGOVYX $ 18,663 $  $ 29,142 $  MYFEMBREE 629  1,704  Richter product supply and royalties 1,771  1,771  Total product revenue, net 21,063  32,617  Pfizer collaboration revenue: Amortization of upfront payment 20,974  41,948  Amortization of regulatory milestone 4,198  12,733  Total Pfizer collaboration revenue 25,172  54,681  Richter license and milestone revenue 31,667  31,667 33,333 Total revenues $ 77,902 $  $ 118,965 $ 33,333



MYOVANT SCIENCES LTD.

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

(Unaudited, in thousands) September 30, 2021 March 31, 2021 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 518,163 $ 674,493 Accounts receivable, net 14,402 3,570 Marketable securities 97,848 10,435 Inventories 6,141 2,611 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 18,112 13,536 Total current assets 654,666 704,645 Property and equipment, net 3,297 3,300 Operating lease right-of-use asset 8,835 9,655 Other assets 12,742 7,427 Total assets $ 679,540 $ 725,027 Liabilities and Shareholders Deficit Current liabilities: Accounts payable $ 8,642 $ 17,809 Accrued expenses and other current liabilities 46,334 44,612 Share-based compensation liabilities 5,769 21,636 Deferred revenue 100,564 100,564 Amounts due to Pfizer 19,957 1,954 Cost share advance from Pfizer 84,768 92,415 Operating lease liability 1,968 1,807 Amounts due to related parties 334 543 Total current liabilities 268,336 281,340 Deferred revenue, non-current 426,021 397,369 Cost share advance from Pfizer, non-current  29,447 Long-term operating lease liability 8,159 9,189 Long-term debt, less current maturities (related party) 358,700 358,700 Other liabilities 1,251 2,947 Total liabilities 1,062,467 1,078,992 Total shareholders deficit (382,927 ) (353,965 ) Total liabilities and shareholders deficit $ 679,540 $ 725,027 Investor Contact:

Ryan Crowe

Vice President, Investor Relations

Myovant Sciences, Inc.

+1 (650) 781-9106

[email protected] Media Contact:

Albert Liao

Director, Corporate Communications

Myovant Sciences, Inc.

+1 (650) 410-3055

[email protected]





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[October 26, 2021] New Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 for digital artists and designers

TOKYO and PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Wacom introduces its new Cintiq Pro 16 creative pen display to professional and serious creators of digital content who wish to take their art and design work to the next level. Building on over 35 years of product innovation and valuable customer feedback, the Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 combines the company's most natural and precise pen performance with newly improved ergonomic features into a sleek and portable form factor to help artists, designers, photographers or anyone with a passion for art let their creativity flow from pen to screen. "The launch of the Cintiq Pro 16 puts the power of our flagship creative pen display line into an extremely portable device that is more adaptable than ever before - giving artists not only better precision, but also flexibility in how and where they work," said Faik Karaoglu, Executive Vice President of Marketing for Wacom's Creative Business Unit. "Wacom continues to build products that help artists and designers reach their full potential and reimagine what is possible." Enhanced comfort and control The Wacom Cintiq Pro 16's sleek and thin design makes it easy to slip into a laptop bag or backpack and is a smart choice for today's digital content creators who find themselves moving between working locations and computers on a regular basis. "For professionals who are already using a Cintiq Pro 24 or 32 at their place of work, having a Cintiq Pro 16 at the home studio makes a great deal of sense as the device will be most familiar," adds Karaoglu. "It also happens to be a wonderful choice for schools who are training the next generation for careers in animation, industrial design, game development, photography, etc." Wacom's latest touch screen technology on the Cintiq Pro 16 offers better performance over previous generations. The option to use the pen and multi-touch together is still alive and well as many users enjoy using their fingers for easy and fast navigation as well as the ability to pinch, zoom and rotate illustrations, photos or models within supporting 2-D and 3-D creative software applcations. For added customization and sophistication, the Cintiq Pro 16 features a physical switch on the top edge of the screen's bezel for turning multi-touch on or off for those users who prefer having touch turned off while working. Additionally, eight ExpressKeys, for integrating and customizing keyboard shortcuts and modifiers into one's workflow, are conveniently placed on the rear edge sides (four on each side) of the display for better ergonomics and the added benefit of more screen real estate for drawing. States Karaoglu, "Moving the ExpressKeys to the rear of the device is more intuitive and improves ergonomics and haptic feedback as the keys are located in an area where most user's hands will naturally gravitate to when working."



Natural pen-on-screen performance Wacom's Pro Pen 2 offers unmatched creative control and precision to those who take their digital art seriously. Delivering four times greater accuracy and pressure sensitivity than the previous Pro Pen, the improved Pro Pen 2 creates an intuitive, free-flowing experience with virtually lag-free tracking on an anti-glare, etched glass surface that emulates the natural feel and feedback of a traditional pen or brush. In addition, optical bonding greatly reduces parallax for better performance when working with fine lines or details.

Handy accessories The Wacom Adjustable Stand lets users focus on their work instead of having to draw or paint in a way that is counterintuitive to their style. Third party stands can also be attached to the unit's VESA mount. For artists who like to experiment with different types of pens, the thin Pro Pen slim and Pro Pen 3D, with three customizable buttons, provide new ways to get creative. When color is critical, the Wacom Color Manager, with Wacom Calibrator hardware and Wacom Profiler software, helps make sure that the colors on your displays and finished work reproduce exactly as intended. Lastly, the handheld ExpressKey Remote is designed to boost productivity by creating software application shortcuts with its 17 customizable buttons and Touch Ring. Configuration, pricing and availability The Wacom Cintiq Pro 16 is compatible with both Mac and PC computers and features ultra HD 4K resolution (3840x2160) through either USB-C or HDMI connectivity. The device delivers vivid colors with 98 percent Adobe RGB. In addition, the display's cables contain no PVC to meet recent SDG requirements that are aimed at cleaning up the environment. Priced at $1499.95 USD, the Cintiq Pro 16 is expected to be available online and at select retail locations in October. About Wacom Founded in 1983, Wacom is a global company based in Japan (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 6727) with subsidiaries and affiliate offices around the world to support marketing and distribution in over 150 countries. Wacom's vision to bring people and technology closer together through natural interface technologies has made it the world's leading manufacturer of interactive pen tablets and displays as well as of digital styli and solutions for saving and processing digital signatures. The advanced technology of Wacom's intuitive input devices has been used to create some of the most exciting digital art, films, special effects, fashion and designs around the world and provides business and home users with their leading interface technology to express their personality. Please visit www.wacom.com for further information. HDMI is a registered trademark of HDMI Licensing Administrator, Inc.

USB-C is a registered trademark of USB Implementers Forum.

Mac is a registered trademark of Apple Inc.

Adobe and Adobe RGB are either registered trademarks or trademarks of Adobe in the United States and/or other countries.

Other names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. For further information, please contact:

Douglas A. Little

Wacom Technology Corp.

503-525-3100 x3174

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-wacom-cintiq-pro-16-for-digital-artists-and-designers-301407311.html SOURCE Wacom

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[October 26, 2021] Onna Delivers Defensible eDiscovery for Zoom with New Connector Enhancements

NEW YORK and BARCELONA, Spain, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Onna , the world's first Knowledge Integration Platform, today announced key enhancements to its Zoom connector to deliver a more complete and defensible eDiscovery and information governance solution for Zoom. Customers can now collect, search, assess, and export data from Zoom Chat alongside Zoom Meetings and other third-party applications, to better support eDiscovery and investigation needs in today's remote working environment. Onna's connectors enable granular, API-based integrations with the most popular collaboration and productivity tools, extracting, then processing and indexing all available data and metadata. This allows organizations to create a full, contextualized and searchable repository of their corporate knowledge. "It's no secret that Zoom has massively influenced the creation of our new world of remote and hybrid working, giving us a forum to connect and collaborate at a distance," said Salim Elkhou, founder and CEO at Onna. "But as more conversations and chats happen on Zoom, the application has turned into a system of record, storing valuable corporate knowledge that needs to be easily discoverable for litigation and investigations, just like email. Legal and IT teams are under new pressure to evolve their information governance strategies accordingly, and this is why Onna is far better equipped for today's workplace apps than traditional eDiscovery and data collection tools." While Onna's Zoom connector has always efficiently and defensibly collected Zoom Meetings data, including meeting details, audio and video recordings and transcripts, and in-meeting chat, the connector has been enhanced to additionally collect chat mesages outside of Zoom Meetings, including one-to-one, group, and channel messages. This includes not only the instant messages themselves, but also any files, images, or emoji shared within Zoom Chat.



Onna's Zoom connector captures this data from all custodians even if they are inactive participants within a channel or group. Though Zoom provides some native data retention and search capabilities, Onna delivers the same granular data collection, search, assessment, and export capabilities across not only Zoom, but also numerous other third-party applications like Microsoft Teams, Slack, and Google Workspace all at once, from one powerful yet simple-to-use self-service platform.

Onna stores all Zoom data in its Knowledge Integration Platform to mitigate accidental or malicious data loss from the primary source and to ensure always-on access to data with an independent, search-ready archive. Built for the cloud, the platform and its connectors can be set up quickly and easily, delivering rapid time to value compared to more traditional and complex archiving tools. "There shouldn't be a reliance on IT to fulfill discovery requests, and self-service is the key to helping teams become more proactive," Elkhou continued. "Onna provides a single, intuitive platform to simplify data collection from Zoom and many of the other applications organizations use, giving users the autonomy to drive truly defensible eDiscovery." About Onna

Onna integrates knowledge from all workplace applications, allowing anyone to unify, protect, search, automate, and build on top of their organization's proprietary knowledge. With the rise of cloud-based and hosted workplace apps, knowledge is extremely fragmented and difficult to access in most organizations, costing businesses huge amounts of time and money in searching for their own information. Onna's Machine Learning-based Knowledge Integration Platform can be connected to any cloud or on-premise application, including Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Slack, Dropbox, Salesforce, and many more. It supports eDiscovery, information governance, knowledge management, archiving, monitoring for private and sensitive data sharing, and building bespoke internal workflow apps using proprietary information. With headquarters in New York City and Barcelona and teams in Raleigh, San Francisco, Toulouse, and London, Onna supports some of the world's leading companies, including Dropbox, Electronic Arts, Fitbit, Lyft, NewsCorp, and Slack. Onna has raised more than $50M from investors, including Atomico, Dawn Capital, Dropbox, and Slack Fund. To learn more, visit www.onna.com . Media Contact:

Hanah Johnson

Senior Communications Manager

?(617) 855-9402

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/onna-delivers-defensible-ediscovery-for-zoom-with-new-connector-enhancements-301408259.html SOURCE Onna

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[October 26, 2021] OpenSlate Expands Sales Footprint to France to Meet Global Client Demand

PARIS, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- OpenSlate, the leading independent provider of content ratings across the world's largest digital platforms, today announced that Florian Mosquet has joined the company as Country Director for France, increasing support for its growing global business. Mosquet is responsible for driving regional business development efforts, and the greater adoption of the OpenSlate industry-leading content ratings across French markets. He is based at the company's office in Paris, France. "As we continue to build our global footprint and offer marketers industry-standard metrics that assess the nature and quality of ad-supported content, we need a powerful sales team to deliver regional impact," said Brian Quinn, President of OpenSlate. "This is an exciting time of continued growth for OpenSlate. We arethrilled that Florian is joining the team and we are confident that his experience and passion will help drive success in the French market."



Globally, OpenSlate provides advertisers with a consistent means of classifying content, measuring quality and assessing brand suitability. OpenSlate's content ratings are in use across 37 international markets. The company currently measures and scores more than 800 million ad-supported videos. Mosquet has spent the past decade focused on programmatic advertising and digital video, working with brands and agencies on their ad tech and media buying strategies. Coming from Dailymotion, he joined TubeMogul in the early days of its French office. TubeMogul was acquired by Adobe in 2017, where Florian was in charge of the Advertising Cloud development, leading the sales team for France, Belgium, and Italy.

"The boom of video content across social networks has meant advertisers need to have added controls on where their ad is being placed," said Mosquet. "I am thrilled to be joining OpenSlate during this time of international growth, bringing its great set of products to the French market and helping agencies and advertisers professionalize and automatize their inventory management across social video platforms." ABOUT OPENSLATE OpenSlate is a global, content-focused measurement and analytics company. The company's technology and independent ratings system provides insight into the nature and quality of content on the world's largest digital platforms. OpenSlate provides marketers with holistic, comprehensive solutions for brand safety, suitability and subject matter. Learn more at www.openslate.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/openslate-expands-sales-footprint-to-france-to-meet-global-client-demand-301407767.html SOURCE OpenSlate

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[October 26, 2021] Primergy Solar Completes 5 MW Solar Project Near Aspen, Colorado

Primergy Solar, LLC ('Primergy') announced today that it completed construction on the Pitkin Solar Project, a 5 MW, 35-acre solar installation in Pitkin County, near Aspen, Colorado. The project is located near Woody Creek in the Roaring Fork Valley on land leased from the Aspen Consolidated Sanitation District (ACSD). The land was originally purchased by ACSD for its dry land farming operation which put wastewater treatment by-products to beneficial use. Energy from the project will be sold to Holy Cross Energy, an electric co-op serving almost 45,000 members in Western Colorado, under a 25-year power purchase agreement. "The completion of the Pitkin Solar Project is an important step on our journey to 100% clean energy for our members," said Bryan Hannegan, President and CEO of Holy Cross Energy. "We very much appreciate the efforts made by Primergy to work with Pitkin County to minimize the impact to the local community from the construction of this new source of clean and resilient energy for the upper Roaring Fork Valley." Primergy completed development, oversaw construction and will operate the plant. The project was originally slated to have 18,000 cubic yards of civil work and a 20-foot berm constructed. However, the Primergy team was able to eliminate these elements by utilizing its responsible and efficient construction processes, and low-touch land-management. Primergy installed the project without having to grade the site and minimized environmental impacts. "Primergy Solar was an excellent partner to work with on this project" said John Keleher, ACSD Chairman. "They have been outstanding all around. Their patience and sensitivity to the land use review process was excellent. This solar project directly aligns with our purpose of protecting the environment. The power cost savings that result from our capital contribution will save ACSD customers money in the long run. This renewable energy project helps us directly off-set the large amount of power we consume providing advanced wastewater treatment for our customers." The site is located under a flight path near the Aspen Airport and next to a popular pedestrian trail and residential neighborhood, which posed unique challenges including landscape requirements and glare concerns. There are approximately 13,700 solar panels installed and Primergy selected innovative solar products to help maximize energy production including bifacial panels and tracking systems. The panels are also a specialized anti-glare product to cut down on reflected light for both planes flying over and for neighbors.



In addition to the completion of the project, Primergy closed on tax-equity financing from Regions Bank. Regions Bank helped the company navigate the increasingly dynamic tax equity landscape, deliver expertise in an evolving clean energy market and provide efficient capital solutions. With the Pitkin Solar Project financing in place, Primergy expects to significantly expand its clean energy platform in distributed solar solutions for other local communities across the US.

For more information on Primergy, please visit https://www.primergysolar.com/. About Primergy Solar

Primergy Solar, LLC (https://www.primergysolar.com) is a developer, owner and operator focused on both distributed and utility scale solar PV and battery storage projects in North America. Primergy Solar features a diverse and talented team with decades of experience in renewables project development, financing, construction and operations. It is currently managing and progressing a significant portfolio of operational and development stage solar+ battery storage projects. Primergy Solar is a portfolio company of Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners and represents Quinbrook's principal solar and solar plus energy storage investment platform in North America. About HCE

Founded in 1939, Holy Cross Energy is a not-for-profit rural electric cooperative that provides safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy and services that improve the quality of life for more than 44,500 members and their communities in Western Colorado. Committed to leading the responsible transition to a clean energy future, HCE was named the 2020 Electric Cooperative of the Year by the Smart Electric Power Alliance for their work in clean energy. About Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners

Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners (www.quinbrook.com) is a specialist investment manager focused exclusively on renewables, storage and grid support infrastructure and operational asset management in the US, UK and Australia. Quinbrook is led and managed by a senior team of power industry professionals who have collectively invested over $8 billion of equity in energy infrastructure assets since the early 1990's, representing a total enterprise value of $28.7 billion or 19.5 GW of power supply capacity. Quinbrook's investment and asset management team has offices in Houston, London, Jersey, and the Gold Coast of Australia. Quinbrook has completed a diverse range of direct investments in both utility and distributed scale wind power, solar PV, peaking power and grid support, biomass, battery storage and 'micro-grid' installations in the US, UK and Australia. About Regions Financial Corporation

Regions Financial Corporation (NYSE:RF), with $156 billion in assets, is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management, and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas, and through its subsidiary, Regions Bank, operates more than 1,300 banking offices and approximately 2,000 ATMs. Regions Bank is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC. Additional information about Regions and its full line of products and services can be found at www.regions.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005393/en/

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[October 26, 2021] QuintessenceLabs Raises A$25 million to take Quantum Safe Cybersecurity Worldwide

QuintessenceLabs, a pioneer and leader in quantum cybersecurity solutions, announced today that it has recently raised a A$25 million round of capital funding led by Main Sequence and TELUS (News - Alert) Ventures, with participation from Mizuho Financial Group-backed InterValley Ventures and Terry Snow's Capital Property Group. This investment underscores QuintessenceLabs' commitment of providing quantum safe crypto solutions and services to support security communities worldwide. Main Sequence is Australia's deep tech investment fund, founded by Australia's national science agency, CSIRO. TELUS Ventures is the strategic investment arm of TELUS Corporation and one of Canada's most active and longest-standing corporate venture capital (CVC) funds. The next greatest threat to data and information is the advent of quantum computing. Quantum (News - Alert) computing capabilities and power transcend that of current computing, making today's information vulnerable to quantum computing attacks and data breaches. Organizations need to start assessing their cybersecurity posture from a quantum-safe perspective. "We are delighted to have secured investments from Main Sequence and TELUS Ventures and be recognized for our breakthrough commercialization of quantum enhanced cybersecurity solutions," said QuintessenceLabs' Founder and CEO, Dr Vikram Sharma. "Safeguarding data-our most valuable resource-has never been more critical and we look forward to this exciting new growth stage while continuing to develop world-leading solutions to secure our increasingly digital lives. " Australian-based QuintessenceLabs is a global leader in quantum cybersecurity recognized for its advanced quantum-safe data protection capabilities. The company has been widely recognized for its cybersecurity innovations around the world, most recently through its selection as a World Economic Forum Global Innovator as well as winning a prestigious 2020 CyberTech100 Award. "As computing power increases exponentially, the tools needed to secure critical data and assets must stay several steps ahead," said Bill Bartee, Partner at Main Sequence. "Dr Sharma and the team at QuintessenceLabs are global leaders in developing quantum-based cybersecurity tools that help protect sovereign and commercially sensitive information. We're excited to support the QuintessenceLabs team as they scle their business and provide customers with a critical layer of protection."



"TELUS is at the forefront of network security practices with an eye on the future of quantum safe technologies," said Mario Mele, vice president Corporate Strategy, TELUS Ventures. "We're pleased to align with the leader in this space to gain a broader lens into cybersecurity innovations and how they may impact our industry." It is expected that quantum cybersecurity will soon become mainstream and will be one of the critical pillars of a robust cybersecurity strategy for most organizations. QuintessenceLabs is primed to deliver global leadership in supporting customers to achieve a resilient quantum-safe cybersecurity posture in a complex cyber threat environment, while transforming society and industry in a positive way for years to come.

About Main Sequence Main Sequence is Australia's deep tech investment fund tackling the world's biggest challenges by turning today's scientific discoveries into tomorrow's industries. It works closely with scientists, researchers, and industry collaborators to create, fund and accelerate new companies and industries that accelerate humanity for a more prosperous future. Main Sequence was set up in 2017 to manage the CSIRO Innovation Fund, founded by the Australian Government and the national science agency to reinvest its historic contributions into the successes of the future. Fund I was backed by CSIRO, and to date has invested in 26 companies that are changing the way healthcare is delivered, food is produced, spaces are connected and more. Its second Fund was announced in April 2021 with eight investments made to date. 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 QuintessenceLabs QuintessenceLabs, a global leader in quantum cybersecurity, offers a suite of unrivaled cybersecurity solutions and services for today and tomorrow, including their flagship product the Trusted Security Foundation (TSF). The TSF is the industry's most secure key management platform, incorporating the security of a FIPS 140-2 Level 3 hardware security module (HSM) with advanced key and policy management (KMS), and qStream, the world's fastest quantum random number generator (QRNG), delivering the strongest foundation for encryption and data security. QuintessenceLabs continues in the advancement of quantum cybersecurity with their latest quantum-safe solution, qOptica Quantum Key Distribution (QKD). For more information on QuintessenceLabs, visit www.quintessencelabs.com, or follow the company on LinkedIn (News - Alert) at https://www.linkedin.com/company/700055/admin/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005245/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Rumble acquires Locals to help build a bigger creator economy

TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Today, the video platform Rumble announced that it has acquired Locals Technology, Inc. Locals' revolutionary platform has quickly made it the premier subscription-based service for multimedia content and community. Buying Locals furthers Rumble's mission of giving creators unprecedented autonomy over their work while providing audiences with quality content. Rumble is already one of the most respected independent and privately-owned companies in the online video-sharing platform industry. Acquiring Locals is part of Rumble's broader effort to build a creator economy that fosters creative independence. Founded in 2019, Florida-based Locals is a platform that empowers independent content creators to publish their content, engage with their supporters and make money from subscriptions. Creators include: Scott Adams, Tulsi Gabbard, ZDoggMD, Max Lugavere Robert Barnes, Bridget Phetasy, Dr. Drew, Karlyn Borysenko, Greg Gutfeld, and Michael Malice.



"We are building the rails to a new tech ecosystem that will responsibly free everyone from the restraints of editorial control," said Rumble CEO Chris Pavlovski. "Locals will provide our Rumble users a new way to generate revenue, one that is not influenced by corporate advertisers and special interests. All our creators can now build a direct stream of revenue with their audience through subscriptions, allowing creators to take control of their valuable content." Creators who use Locals own their community data and content. Locals provides industry-leading audience data that allow creators to understand the behavior of their audience better. Creators are quickly able to see what content is effective at driving engagement.

Locals' subscription business model is dependent on providing creators with high-quality information about their audience. When a creator does well, the platform does well. This model enables Locals' creators and audience to interact, share and comment to drive growth. Rumble is integrating Locals with its existing platform using Rumble's cutting-edge cloud infrastructure. Once active, a creator will simply need to link their Locals profile to their Rumble account. Additionally, the Locals-Rumble handshake places a red Locals button on every Rumble video, indicating that a creator is a Locals creator. "We are excited to see Locals continue our growth and vision as part of Rumble. Together we are building a new ecosystem for creators," said Assaf Lev, CEO of Locals. "Becoming part of Rumble will give Locals' creators new opportunities to expand their audiences while retaining control of their data. Both Rumble and Locals believe in the importance of allowing creators to express their opinions, interact with their supporters and make money from subscription." View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rumble-acquires-locals-to-help-build-a-bigger-creator-economy-301408700.html SOURCE Rumble

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[October 26, 2021] Satellogic Signs Agreement with Agencia Espacial del Paraguay to Provide Dedicated Satellite Constellation to the Republic of Paraguay

Satellogic, a leader in sub-meter resolution satellite imagery collection, announced today that it has signed a letter of intent (the "LOI") with Agencia Espacial del Paraguay ("AEP") to develop a Space-as-a-Service program for the country. As a result of this LOI, Satellogic and AEP will undertake various technological and scientific projects in accordance with AEP's Institutional Strategic Plan and the Space Policy of Paraguay. The LOI provides a framework for the start-up and development of a dedicated satellite constellation network. Satellogic's Dedicated Satellite Constellation Program enables municipal, state, and national governments to manage a fleet of satellites over a specific area of interest and develop a geospatial imaging program at unmatched frequency, resolution, and cost. "The Dedicated Satellite Constellation Satellogic will develop for AEP is a low-risk, cost-effective Space-As-A-Service model tailored for AEP and the Republic of Paraguay," said Luciano Giesso, Sales Director for Satellogic. "Latin America is increasingly focused on space technologies to create new infrastructures to unlock the benefits of satellite data across many industries. This region continues to be an area of focus for us, uncovering huge opportunities for new space activities and projects." Countries unequipped with their own satellites orbiting the Earth are limited in their ability to capture data about their policy implementation and infrastructure. Satellogic's Dedicated Satellite Constellation Program expands access to geospatial analytics and insights that contribute to strategic national interests, with no capital outlay and no technical or operational risks. "This is the first agreement of this kind signed between AEP and a global space company, contributing to aerospace development for the public and private sectors of Paraguay, and establishing a sustainable system for our Space Agency purposes," expressed Alejandro Roman, General Director of Aerospace Development for AEP. "Satellogic is building the first scalable, high-resolution, earth-observation platform, and they could become the idal partner to leverage outer space peacefully for the benefit of the Paraguayan population and the development of our country on new satellite technologies."



With access to Satellogic's Dedicated Satellite Constellation Program, governments of all sizes are now able to develop unique earth-observation programs to support key decisions and manage policy impact, measure investment and socio-economic progress, and foster collaboration, data and information sharing, and innovation. About Satellogic

Founded in 2010 by Emiliano Kargieman and Gerardo Richarte, Satellogic is the first vertically integrated geospatial company, driving real outcomes with planetary-scale insights. Satellogic is building the first scalable, fully automated Earth Observation platform with the ability to remap the entire planet at both high-frequency and high-resolution, providing accessible and affordable solutions for customers. Satellogic's mission is to democratize access to geospatial data through its information platform to help solve the world's most pressing problems including climate change, energy supply, and food security. Using its patented Earth imaging technology, Satellogic unlocks the power of Earth Observation (EO) to deliver high-quality, planetary insights at the lowest cost in the industry. With more than a decade of experience in space, Satellogic has proven technology and a strong track record of delivering satellites to orbit and high-resolution data to customers at the right price point. More details can be found on Satellogic's Investor Webpage: https://satellogic.com/investors/. About AEP The Paraguayan Space Agency, AEP, created by Law No. 5151/14, is the implementing authority, the governing authority for research, development, and innovation of space activities in the Republic of Paraguay, aimed at understanding, designing, proposing and implementing policies and programs in the field of space, aerospace, under the Presidency of the Republic. The AEP, the Paraguayan State's counterpart in space matters with foreign space agencies, has as its general objective, to promote and manage the development of national space activities, fostering the technological innovation that is necessary to achieve and conduct the peaceful uses of outer space. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains certain statements that may include "forward-looking statements." All statements other than statements of historical fact included herein are "forward-looking statements." These forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects" or similar expressions, involving known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, they do involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties, and these expectations may prove to be incorrect. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. The Company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors, including the risk factors discussed in the Company's proxy statement/prospectus that has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and available on the SEC's (News - Alert) website (http://www.sec.gov). All forward-looking statements attributable to the Company or persons acting on its behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by these risk factors. Other than as required under the applicable securities laws, the Company does not assume a duty to update these forward-looking statements. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005249/en/

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[October 26, 2021] SRI International Names Dr. David E. Parekh as CEO

MENLO PARK, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SRI International announced today that its Board of Directors has appointed Dr. David E. Parekh as CEO, effective December 1st, 2021. David Parekh has had a storied career in technology research and development, most recently as an independent consultant as well as serving on various boards, including those of the Connecticut Science Center and the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy. Dr. Parekh will succeed Dr. William Jeffrey, who has served as CEO since 2014. "Dr. Parekh brings a broad background of working in research at both nonprofit and for-profit companies as well as working with both government and commercial clients over the last 30 years. David is the right leader at the right time for SRI International. His energy and passion for research along with his strong leadership experience will support and accelerate SRI's mission to create world-changing inventions that make people safer, healthier, and more productive," said Leslie Kenne, Chair of the Board of Directors. Prior to his consulting role Dr. Parekh served as Corporate Vice President, Research, and as Director, United Technologies Research Center (UTRC), providing global leadership for United Technologies Corporation's (UTC) central research organization. Under his leadership, UTRC developed a broad portfolio of advanced aerospace,energy, and digital technologies for the UTC business units. Prior to joining UTRC, Parekh served as Deputy Director of Georgia Tech Research Institute (GTRI) and Associate Vice Provost for research at the university. Early in his career, he led various advanced technology programs at Boeing Phantom Works and McDonnell Douglas Research Laboratories. A Fellow of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), Dr. Parekh is also a member of the Connecticut Academy of Science and Engineering (CASE). He earned a doctorate in mechanical engineering and master's degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering from Stanford University in California as well as a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia.



Regarding his appointment, Dr. Parekh remarked, "I am honored to be selected as the next CEO of SRI International. It will truly be a pleasure to work with the distinguished researchers and senior leadership at SRI to create the transformative solutions our customers need. I am excited about the mission of the organization and look forward to joining this great institute that I have admired for many years." "The Board of Directors also wants to thank Dr. William Jeffrey for his very successful leadership of this Institute for the past seven years," said Leslie Kenne, Chair of the Board. "Bill's leadership brought a strategic vision and solutions-focused research to support the important mission of SRI to make the world a better place for all people to live."

About SRI International

SRI International creates world-changing solutions making people safer, healthier, and more productive. SRI, a research center headquartered in Menlo Park, California, works primarily in advanced technology and systems, biosciences, computing and education. SRI brings its innovations to the marketplace through technology licensing, spin-off ventures and new product solutions. Media Contact:

Artineh Aladadian

(949)-777-2469

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sri-international-names-dr-david-e-parekh-as-ceo-301408757.html SOURCE SRI International

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[October 26, 2021] Synapse Medicine Expands Its European Medication Reconciliation Business to the United States

BORDEAUX, France, and SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Synapse Medicine, the leading Medication Intelligence platform, today announced plans to provide American healthcare professionals with access to the Synapse Platform's advanced medication reconciliation technology. This move is facilitated by the integration of trusted drug data from FDB (First Databank), the leading provider of drug knowledge that helps healthcare professionals make precise decisions. Synapse Medicine has integrated FDB MedKnowledge, the most widely used drug database in the United States, and the FDB Interoperability Module into the Synapse Platform's medication reconciliation technology to ease clinical decision-making and improve patient safety. The FDB Interoperability Module cross-references FDB drug data to U.S. Federal Medication Terminologies (NLM RxNorm, CVX/MVX, SNOMED CT) to enable sharing and display of current patient medication and disease information between multiple systems. This provides clinicians with critical guidance for medication management at points in the workflow where it is most needed. Medication reconciliation, the process of identifying the most accurate list of all medications that the patient is taking  including name, dosage, frequency, and route  is essential to preventing medication errors at each care transition and in ensuring patients adhere to their treatments. In the United States alone, hospital readmissions represent more than $41 illion in additional healthcare costs per year. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), 66% of these readmissions are related to preventable adverse health events such as medication non-adherence.



"Medication reconciliation is a crucial step in patient safety. It prevents adverse drug events, readmissions, and helps patients better adhere to their regimens. At Synapse Medicine, we have developed a medication reconciliation solution that simplifies the process and reduces prescribing discrepancies at transitions. This collaboration with FDB represents an important milestone to further facilitate medication reconciliation in the U.S.," said Dr. Clement Goehrs, Synapse Medicine CEO and Co-Founder. "Medication reconciliation is a complicated process that often gets lost in the care transition shuffle," said FDB President Bob Katter. "With medication reconciliation integrated into existing clinical systems and supported by FDB's drug knowledge , the process becomes much easier, enabling clinicians to better manage medications, even as care transitions take place. FDB is pleased to work with Synapse Medicine to bring effective medication reconciliation capabilities to more clinicians in the United States."

About Synapse Medicine

Synapse Medicine's mission is to deliver easily accessible, reliable, and useful drug information. The startup which collaborates closely with the largest French university hospitals has developed a Medication Intelligence platform dedicated to proper drug use. As a leader in its category, the solution is 100% independent from the pharmaceutical industry and is used today by thousands of healthcare professionals. About FDB (First Databank)

FDB (First Databank) is the leading provider of drug and medical device knowledge that helps healthcare professionals make precise decisions. We empower our information system developer partners serving the majority of hospitals, physician practices, pharmacies, payers, and all other healthcare industry segments to deliver valuable solutions used by millions of clinicians, business associates, and patients every day. For more than four decades our drug knowledge has been used to help improve patient safety, operational efficiency, and healthcare outcomes. For a complete look at our solutions and services, please visit https://www.fdbhealth.com/ or follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube. Contact for Synapse: [email protected]

+33 (0)5 56 35 50 87 Nadjib Bennai

Head of Marketing

[email protected] Contact for FDB:

Tara Stultz

Amendola Communications for FDB

M: 440-225-9595

[email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1667017/Synapse_Medicine_Logo.jpg View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/synapse-medicine-expands-its-european-medication-reconciliation-business-to-the-united-states-301408292.html SOURCE Synapse Medicine

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[October 26, 2021] Telecom Network Infrastructure Market revenue to cross USD 120 Bn by 2027: Global Market Insights Inc.

Europe telecom network Infrastructure market will account for USD 25 billion by 2027 due to the growing demand for strong broadband connectivity across the region. SELBYVILLE, Del., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The telecom network infrastructure market size is anticipated to record a valuation of USD 120 billion by 2027, according to the most recent study by Global Market Insights Inc. The commercialization of next generation 5G networks is expected to drive the demand for advanced telecom network infrastructures. The rising demand for broadband coverage and improved cellular networks is enabling companies to shift to next-generation networks that provide better bandwidth and speed capabilities, thus creating a huge demand for the deployment of 5G networks. Network upgrading allows telecom operators to switch to an advanced telecom infrastructure that can handle the massive data traffic generated. Request for a sample of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/request-sample/detail/4493 The femtocells base station segment in the telecom network infrastructure market is predicted to witness 5% growth rate till 2027 led by the increasing demand for improved indoor network coverage in urban areas. The rising adoption of smart homes due to advancements in IoT technology is making network coverage essential in indoor locations. Femtocells are deployed in locations where there is a network backhaul or a location where backhaul can be developed without any difficulty or capital investment. The integration & deployment service segment dominated more than 50% of the telecom network infrastructure market share in 2020. Integration & deployment services configure the settings of new network nodes that need to be rolled out in a wireless network and build a dynamic telecom infrastructure. These services also maintain resiliency, high performance, and high availability with a secure, always-on, scalabe, and multi-technology network across businesses. It also helps enterprises to gain a significant Return on Investment (ROI) through network planning & design facilitation, network infrastructure optimization, and multi-vendor network integration.



The telecom network infrastructure market for 3G technology segment will showcase substantial gains during the forecast period driven by the growing demand for internet services. The 3G technology is focused on providing high-speed data with a data rate of up to 14 Mbps, using packet switching. It uses a wide band wireless network that has a better signal quality compared to a 2G network. 3G uses the Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) to provide a high data transfer speed and capacity. The telecom operator end-user segment is poised to grow at a significant growth rate from 2021 to 2027. Telecom operators are focusing on improving their telecom infrastructures to meet the growing demands of cellular users. Operators are continuously upgrading their network infrastructures to match the high-speed data demand of consumers.

Europe telecom network Infrastructure market size will reach USD 25 billion by 2027 owing to the increasing demand for strong broadband connectivity across the region. Several regional enterprises are focusing on the development of innovative solutions through strategic partnerships. For instance, in October 2020, Airspan signed a partnership agreement with Siticom GmbH, a specialized network infrastructure company. Through this partnership, the companies delivered 5G wireless connectivity to the manufacturing, automotive, healthcare, and agricultural sectors in Germany. Request for customization of this research report @ https://www.gminsights.com/roc/4493 Major players operating in the telecom network Infrastructure market are Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd., Nokia Networks, Ericsson, Ciena Corporation, Cisco Systems, Inc., Inc., and CommScope, Inc. Companies are focusing on offering RAN network solutions through partnerships. Table of Contents (ToC) of the report: Chapter 3 Telcom Network Infrastructure Market Insights 3.1 Introduction 3.2 Industry segmentation 3.3 COVID-19 impact 3.3.1 Impact by region 3.3.2 Impact by value chain 3.3.3 Impact by competitive landscape 3.4 Evolution of telecom network infrastructure 3.5 Telcom network infrastructure industry ecosystem analysis 3.5.1 Networking hardware providers 3.5.2 Networking software providers 3.5.3 Telecom service providers 3.5.4 System integrator 3.5.5 End-users 3.6 Technology & innovation landscape 3.6.1 Network as a service (NaaS) 3.6.2 Cloud Radio Access Network (C-RAN) 3.7 Investment portfolio 3.8 Regulatory landscape 3.9 Industry impact forces 3.9.1 Growth drivers 3.9.2 Industry pitfalls & challenges 3.10 Growth potential analysis 3.11 Porter's analysis 3.12 PESTEL analysis Browse Complete Table of Contents (ToC) @ https://www.gminsights.com/toc/detail/telecom-network-infrastructure-market About Global Market Insights Inc. Global Market Insights Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider, offering syndicated and custom research reports along with growth consulting services. Our business intelligence and industry research reports offer clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data specially designed and presented to aid strategic decision making. These exhaustive reports are designed via a proprietary research methodology and are available for key industries such as chemicals, advanced materials, technology, renewable energy, and biotechnology. Contact Us:

Arun Hegde

Corporate Sales, USA

Global Market Insights Inc.

Phone: 1-302-846-7766

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[October 26, 2021] UnionPay Adds Five Merchants to Growing List Accepting Online Payments with UnionPay Cards in Russia

MOSCOW, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- UnionPay International (UPI) and Russian Standard Bank recently announced the growing list of Russian merchants who are now accepting UnionPay cards for online payments, with five new additions in July, offering added choice and convenience for the 3.3 million UnionPay cardholders in Russia. The new additions include: Ozon, Russia's largest e-commerce platform

largest e-commerce platform Okko, one of the largest video-on-demand online services

Uber, one of the most popular ride-hailing companies in the country

Farfetch, an online luxury clothing store

Joom, a marketplace for buying goods from China , Japan and South Korea At the end of this year, it is also planned to add Wildberries, e-commerce platform, and Apple Store for Macs, iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and more. "Since the outbreak of the pandemic, demand for online shopping, and other options that enable consumers to safely make purchases from their home, has been growing exponentially. We are pleased to announce that even more Russian merchants have enabled nionPay online payments, allowing UnionPay cardholders to continue to make convenient and secure payments in more of their favorite online stores," said Xia Yu, head of UnionPay International Russia Branch.



Rapid digital infrastructure development has meant even back in 2019, seven in ten households were connected to the internet in Russia meaning a significant portion of the population are making regular online payments. Debit cards remain one of the most popular payment methods with a 28 percent share of the market according to recent data. Cashless payments were close to US$39 billion in Russia in 2019 and that amount was close to US$44 billion at the end of 2020. The share of non-cash spending among Russians surged to 59.4 percent in the first three months of 2021. Cash-free sales were up 6.3 percent compared to a year ago. As a result, cashless transactions are expected to reach approximately US$70 billion by 2024.

About UnionPay International UnionPay is an international payment system founded in 2002. UnionPay International is focused on the growth and support of UnionPay's global business. Now UnionPay payment acceptance network has expanded to 180 countries and regions, and 70 countries and regions have issued UnionPay cards. In Russia, UnionPay cards are accepted in over 95% of POS terminals and ATMs. Over 1.6 million POS terminals accept UnionPay cards with QuickPass contactless payment technology, and over 3,3 million UnionPay cards have been issued in Russia. SOURCE UnionPay International Related Link: http://www.unionpayintl.com/ru/

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[October 26, 2021] Utah Tech Start-up Udo Raises $20M, Launches New Video-based Healthcare Collaboration App

Udo LLC (www.Udo.com), one of the newest and fastest-growing tech companies in Utah, today announced the official launch of its new video-based healthcare collaboration app. The company also announced initial funding of $20 million from a network of private investors, many of whom are associated with the healthcare industry. The initial funding will be used to scale the company's first product, Udo Care. Udo Care is a HIPAA-compliant, video-based mobile app that allows providers to interact directly with their patients. Patients can also add their family members or loved ones to the conversation. This technology also allows providers to communicate and collaborate seamlessly with other providers, with additional context to make faster, better decisions for the patient. Udo Care will improve communication and efficiencies in healthcare and create better outcomes of care for the patient. "Udo Care is intended to universally collaborate across all healthcare secors, industries, and institutions, emphasizing the importance of connecting people in the moments that matter most. This empowers providers with immediate access to the most relevant information, in context, to ensure better patient outcomes." -Udo Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer, Dr. S. Ryan Facer.



Since its inception in 2019, Udo has grown from 4 to 63 employees, and operates out of its headquarters located in Farmington, Utah, north of Salt Lake City. Many of Utah's most influential political figures have visited Udo's headquarters, including executives from the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity (Go Utah), U.S. Senator Mike Lee, Utah Congressman Blake Moore, Utah Speaker of the House Brad Wilson, and Utah Senate President Stuart Adams. Earlier this month, the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity awarded Udo with tax incentive credits totaling $2.87 million over the next five years, showing their confidence in Udo's potential to bring job growth and economic opportunities to Utah.

"This expansion is a big win for Davis County," said Dan Hemmert, the Office of Economic Opportunity's executive director. "Udo will add to Utah's growing health tech sector, creating jobs for engineers, copywriters, and more. We wish Udo success as they continue to grow." Danny Frasure, Udo Co-Founder and CEO, notes the exceptional speed of Udo's progress since its inception. "Udo is progressing rapidly, even by Utah's technology standards. We intend to create as much benefit for the Utah community and economic ecosystem as we possibly can. This commitment of support from the Governor's Office of Economic Opportunity will be a significant aid to our ability to reach our highest potential, while maintaining our company headquarters in Utah." The Udo Care apps for patients and providers ("Udo Care Provider" and "Udo Care Patient"), are now available for download on the Apple and Android (News - Alert) app stores. About Udo Udo is a privately held communications technology company nestled among the Wasatch Mountains in Farmington, Utah. Udo has created a HIPAA compliant, video-based technology that connects providers directly to their patients in a new and unique way. Patients can also invite their friends and family members to participate in their healthcare journey. Udo has gathered leaders and experts in both business and healthcare, under the unified vision to connect and empower humanity through innovation. To learn more about Udo, visit udo.com. #DigitalHealth #HealthcareInnovation #VideoCommunications View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005389/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Visionary Global Fintech Companies Invest in Customer Service Experience by Partnering with Helpshift

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Helpshift , the established leader for in-app customer service in the mobile gaming industry, has set its sights on expanding its services to the rapidly growing fintech industry. Helpshift had long predicted an all-mobile shift of payments, financial management and general consumerism. Having grown and developed the Helpshift brand within the mobile gaming industry, the platform earned its stripes meeting the very high demands of gamers that expect superior UX, fast response times and dynamic interactions. Adapting those qualities and positioning the company as a solution in the fintech sector immediately attracted leading B2C brands and providers of financial services, digital payment, and all-in-one finance solutions. /p>



Barbara Borba Moraes , Coordinator of Operations and CX at Guiabolso , Brazil's leading personal finance platform. "More than that, however, we now give voice to our customers, map all requests that arrive in CX and pass them on to the responsible teams for visibility." Helpshift's purpose-built platform provides quick, automated solutions to common user issues, optimizing the time of available service agents while prioritizing customer experience by orienting support around the end user.

By activating Helpshift solutions in-app, customers experienced operational efficiency, increased user satisfaction and user retention across their platforms. Companies focus a significant amount of their resources on attracting new users, and without an effective in-app customer service solution, that work can go to waste if users are forced out of the app to seek support." Most notably, Guiabolso saw a 17 hour reduction in customer wait time and 20% improvement in issue resolution. Additional leading fintech customers have reported that more than 40% of all customer support tickets leverage Helpshift bots and AI, rather than an agent, to find solutions. For SaaS companies, banking and financial solutions, investing in CX initiatives has the potential to double revenue within 36 months, as 86% of consumers are willing to pay more for great customer experience, according to The Temkin Group. "Customer experience is rapidly becoming a key differentiator for businesses," said Erik Ashby, Head of Product, Helpshift. "After supporting millions of mobile users in gaming, the fintech industry was an obvious next step as the sector saw tremendous growth during the pandemic." In the future, Helpshift has its sights on the mcommerce industry, a natural next step for a brand that's beloved by brands that are mobile-first . According to eMarketer, US retail mcommerce sales grew at 41.4% in 2020 and will grow another 15.2% in 2021, totaling $359.32 billion. Annual sales are predicted to nearly double between now and 2025. About Helpshift

Helpshift provides software designed to rid the world of bad customer service. Purpose-built for the needs of modern, mobile-first businesses, Helpshift gives users the simplest mobile "always on'' help experience that is fast and feels as natural and personal as talking to friends and family. Helpshift's in-app chat, bots and automation combine to provide immediate, automated solutions to many issues. Leading brands like Glu Mobile and Playrix use Helpshift to serve billions of support interactions monthly. Helpshift is headquartered in San Francisco, with offices around the globe. To learn more about Helpshift, visit helpshift.com and follow @helpshift on Twitter. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/visionary-global-fintech-companies-invest-in-customer-service-experience-by-partnering-with-helpshift-301408156.html SOURCE Helpshift

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[October 26, 2021] Voyce Announces Language Interpretation App Availability in Epic App Orchard Marketplace

Voyce today announced the integration and availability of the Voyce app with Epic, enabling access to the same live, remote language interpretation services Voyce provides to thousands of healthcare providers and patients nationwide. Available in the Epic App Orchard, the Voyce app is now ready to help provide an interpretation solution to hospitals, health systems, and providers that use Epic, ensuring language is not a barrier to care. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005313/en/ Making the Voyce app available in the Epic App Orchard gives medical staff on-demand access to language interpreters and makes way for a fundamental shift in how they communicate with patients when the same primary language is not spoken by both parties. The functionality of the session being documented into the EHR means the non-English speaking patient's language interpretation history is automatically recorded without additional tme and effort needed.



Medical professionals are able to directly launch the Voyce app during the patient visit and introduce a live interpreter to facilitate the conversation. "While language interpreter services have been around for decades in healthcare, never has it been so easy and convenient for a medical provider to access one," said Voyce CEO, Andrew Royce. "With Voyce's integration with Epic, we are taking a giant leap forward to ensuring greater accessibility services and equity for vulnerable patient populations."

Voyce technology enables access to live, on-demand professional medical interpreters, often in less than 20 seconds. All interpreters have undergone a 60-hour medical training certification, including HIPAA compliance, and offer access to 238 languages and dialects, including American Sign Language (ASL). Building a language interpreter session history into a patient's record helps providers improve compliance with regulations in the U.S. outlined in Section 1557 of Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Epic and App Orchard are trademarks or registered trademarks of Epic Systems Corporation. About Voyce Voyce is a technology driven company deeply committed to helping people in need facing language barriers, enabling them to easily and quickly communicate and get help. Voyce's professional and qualified language interpreters provide interpretation across a variety of technology and telehealth platforms in 238 languages and dialects, including American Sign Language. Across the U.S., Canada, U.K., and globally, Voyce supports thousands of sessions a day, providing language assistance to those in need. Learn more at voyceglobal.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005313/en/

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[October 26, 2021] With new integrations, Acronis affirms its commitment to partners' growth, profitability, and operational excellence

MIAMI, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Acronis, the global leader in cyber protection, today announced continued momentum with its integration program with leading service provider platforms. Designed to align with service providers' preferred toolsets and processes, these integrations enable the delivery of Acronis' award-winning cyber protection solutions through popular software solutions, including RMM and PSA tools, cloud marketplaces, hosting control panels and billing systems  securing clients' data, applications, and systems against cyberthreats. Managed service providers (MSPs) face an onslaught of cyberattacks against their clients and themselves, in part due to an increase in automation of threat development and deployment. MSPs are also suffering from a cybersecurity talent shortage. The result is a need to drive deeper integration and automation across the teams and tool stacks to increase their ability to deliver cyber protection solutions. The latest integrations with Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud launching in October 2021, include Datto RMM and Kaseya BMS, two of the most popular tools that MSPs rely on. Also launching in October 2021 are Tigerpaw One and Ingram Micro's Cloud Blue PSA. With these new integrations, Acronis leads the market in supporting providers via integrations with favored tools in the purpose-built MSP software space. Other recen integrations that Acronis launched include support for MSP toolset market leaders, such as ConnectWise, Kaseya, and N-able. Integrations with RMM and network monitoring tools like NinjaRMM, Paessler PRTG, and Matrix42 were also released this year.



"ConnectWise and Acronis have a long history of integration success providing MSPs with unmatched workflow efficiencies," says Travis Vigneau, Director of Ecosystem Strategy at ConnectWise. "With valuable integrations in over four different ConnectWise software tools, the partnership recently expanded to offer ConnectWise NOC services to Acronis backup users. The latest integration is another example of how this partnership continues to meet its goal of bringing value to MSPs worldwide." Also new this year, Acronis Cyber Protect Cloud now integrates with MDM solutions such as Jamf Pro and Addigy to support service providers in the delivery of cyber protection services for clients' macOS devices. Support for even more services, including Microsoft Intune, ServiceNow CORE, and ServiceNow ITSM Pro, are planned for release in the near future.

"From MSPs to the clients they serve, comprehensive cyber protection is essential to the health of any organization," said Amy Luby, Chief Channel Evangelist at Acronis. "Service providers should be highly motivated to deliver it  but with so much to manage already, they need a streamlined way to fit this goal into their existing workflows. These integrations make it simple for MSPs to easily mass-deploy and manage Acronis' single-agent solution for comprehensive backup, cybersecurity, disaster recovery, and endpoint protection management  all through their RMM and PSA tools of choice." For complete details on the many apps and integrations that make the delivery of cyber protection easy, efficient, and secure across clients' entire environments, visit https://solutions.acronis.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 powered by AI. With advanced anti-malware powered by cutting-edge machine intelligence 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. Our Acronis Cyber Protect solution is available in 25 languages in over 150 countries and is used by over 20,000 service providers to protect over 750,000 businesses. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/with-new-integrations-acronis-affirms-its-commitment-to-partners-growth-profitability-and-operational-excellence-301407422.html SOURCE Acronis, Inc.

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[October 26, 2021] Wolters Kluwer Announces Integration of Its Clinical Natural Language Processing Solution With Henry Schein's MicroMD EMR Platform

Wolters Kluwer, Health announced today that MicroMD, Henry Schein Medical Systems' practice management and electronic medical record (EMR) solution, will implement the Health Language clinical Natural Language Processing (cNLP) solution to help accelerate and optimize patient medical record review. By extracting clinically relevant data locked in unstructured text, such as medical history and free-form notes, Health Language cNLP helps enable clinicians to glean a more complete picture of a patient's health which can drive better outcomes. Industry estimates suggest that more than 80% of valuable healthcare information is locked in unstructured text1, requiring manual review of each patient record that contributes to increased risk of human error, time and cost. Health Language cNLP helps to mitigate these challenges by automating the review of unstructured data, extracting clinically relevant information, codifying information to broadly understood industry standards, and mapping information to a patient's record. "The need to capture medical decision-making, combined with new coding requirements, often lead to a narrative-intensive documentation process, generating a trove of critical medical information buried in free text, such as medical history, progress notes, as well as imaging and laboratory narratives. With Health Language cNLP, important insights from these notes can be captured much more efficiently, which can improve patient outcomes," said Michael Casamassa, Vice President, Solutions at Henry Schein who oversees Henry Schein Medical Systems, a subsidiary of Henry Schein, Inc. "We're excited to build on our relationship with Wolters Kluwer to enrich the breadth and quality of the clinical data that clinicians using MicroMD can now access to better serve their patients." Health Language cNLP uses a proprietary library of more than one million provider-friendly terms including clinical synonyms, abbreviations, acronyms, and common misspellings. This vast scope captures innumerable variations of text notations ntered in a patient record by doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners and assistants. Capturing vital patient insights helps practitioners make educated decisions about the unique needs of each patient, helping them deliver high-quality, comprehensive patient care across care teams.



"We are proud to expand our collaboration with Henry Schein to help practices and health centers maximize the value of MicroMD," said Karen Kobelski, vice president and general manager of Clinical Surveillance Compliance & Data Solutions at Wolters Kluwer, Health. "We look forward to further supporting their efforts to help improve clinical productivity and enhance care for patients by making it easy to fully access, search and analyze vast amounts of information from a growing number of disparate sources." This is the latest integration of Wolters Kluwer's Health Language technology in Henry Schein's MicroMD practice management and electronic medical record. The organization implemented Wolters Kluwer's Clinical Interface Terminology solution in January 2021 with the goal of helping clinicians improve clinical documentation accuracy with smarter problem and diagnosis searches.

For more information about MicroMD, visit www.micromd.com, or call 330-758-8832. Read this story on our website. About Wolters Kluwer

Wolters Kluwer (WKL) is a global leader in professional information, software solutions, and services for the clinicians, nurses, accountants, lawyers, and tax, finance, audit, risk, compliance, and regulatory sectors. We help our customers make critical decisions every day by providing expert solutions that combine deep domain knowledge with advanced technology and services. Wolters Kluwer reported 2020 annual revenues of 4.6 billion. The group serves customers in over 180 countries, maintains operations in over 40 countries, and employs approximately 19,200 people worldwide. The company is headquartered in Alphen aan den Rijn, the Netherlands. Wolters Kluwer provides trusted clinical technology and evidence-based solutions that engage clinicians, patients, researchers and students in effective decision-making and outcomes across healthcare. We support clinical effectiveness, learning and research, clinical surveillance and compliance, as well as data solutions. For more information about our solutions, visit https://www.wolterskluwer.com/en/health and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter (News - Alert) @WKHealth. For more information, visit www.wolterskluwer.com, follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. 1Voorham J, Denig P. Computerized extraction of information on the quality of diabetes care from free text in electronic patient records of general practitioners. J Am Med Inform Assoc 2007;14:349-354 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005386/en/

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[October 26, 2021] YADRO Joins the Open Invention Network Community

DURHAM, N.C., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Open Invention Network (OIN), the organization formed to safeguard open source software (OSS) and the largest patent non-aggression community in history, announced today that YADRO has joined as a community member. According to IDC, YADRO is the market leader in enterprise storage and high-performance servers in Russia and Eastern Europe. Offering a full range of high-performance servers, storage systems and industry specific services and tools, YADRO leverages OSS to deploy best-in-class systems. By joining OIN, YADRO is demonstrating its commitment to patent non-aggression in OSS.

High-performance enterprise computing and storage is enabled by Linux and other key open source software projects. The shared innovation generated by the open source community has enabled previously unimageable scalability and stability. OSS is essential to modern on-premises, hybrid and cloud-based environments, said Keith Bergelt, CEO of Open Invention Network. As a leader in high-performance computing and storage, we are pleased that YADRO is committed to patent non-aggression in core Linux and adjacent open source technologies. "Open source platforms enable the rapid deployment of advanced computing, storage and communications solutions. We recognize the value in shared innovation, a fundamental characteristic of open source communities. OIN membership is strategically important for YADRO in terms of patents management, R&D, marketing and overall company reputation, said Anna Egorova, Chief Delivery Officer at YADRO. Our particiption in the OIN community demonstrates our commitment to support collaborative technology development and the ongoing success of the open source software model.



OINs community practices patent non-aggression in core Linux and adjacent open source technologies by cross-licensing Linux System patents to one another on a royalty-free basis. Patents owned by Open Invention Network are similarly licensed royalty-free to any organization that agrees not to assert its patents against the Linux System. The OIN license can be signed online at http://www.j-oin.net/ . About YADRO

YADRO is a leading, independent, full-cycle vendor and manufacturer with in-house software & hardware R&D, sales, channel, manufacturing and services capabilities. Company portfolio includes core infrastructure products and networking solutions: standard architecture servers, high-performance servers and data storage products. Global technology collaboration is the backbone of the philosophy, vision and strategy of YADRO. YADRO group are the founders, members and active participants of a number of key industrial technology consortia, including the Linux Foundation, OpenPOWER Foundation, RISC-V Foundation, Open Invention Network, OpenCAPI, SNIA, Gen-Z Consortium, PCI-SIG and many others. For more information, please visit YADRO at www.yadro.com.

About Open Invention Network

Open Invention Network (OIN) is the largest patent non-aggression community in history and supports freedom of action in Linux as a key element of open source software (OSS). Patent non-aggression in core technologies is a cultural norm within OSS, so that the litmus test for authentic behavior in the OSS community includes OIN membership. Funded by Google, IBM, NEC, Philips, Sony, SUSE and Toyota, OIN has more than 3,500 community members. The OIN patent license and member cross-licenses are available royalty-free to any party that joins the OIN community. For more information, visit http://www.openinventionnetwork.com . Media-Only Contact: Ed Schauweker

AVID Public Relations for Open Invention Network

+1 (703) 963-5238

[email protected]



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[October 26, 2021] ZEISS connects to productivity with industry-specific trends in focus

MAPLE GROVE, Minn., Oct. 26, 2021 /CNW/ -- The latest quality inspection innovations for aerospace, medical, new energy vehicles, and additive manufacturing will be featured at the ZEISS booth, #1108, during The Quality Show in Chicago, IL, October 26-28, 2021. These industries are highly competitive and rapidly changing. ZEISS experts will be on hand to share their knowledge on flexible and future-proof solutions at several 20-minute Industry Tech Talk sessions over the three days. The ZEISS learning theater presentations, Managing Quality Across the Additive Manufacturing Process Chain; and Applying Quality Measurement Solutions to Improve the Quality of New Energy Vehicle Components, will be held on the exhibit hall floor October 26-27. Industry Tech Talks

Aerospace: Scratching the Surface. Benefits of Automated Blades & Vanes Defect Inspection

Additive Manufacturing: Do You Believe in Magic? Managing Quality Across the AM Process Chain

New Energy Vehicle: You've Got the Power! Solutions for New Energy Vehicle Components

Medical: Aim High! Overcoming Medical Parts Quality Assurance Challenges

For the detailed schedule and registration, visit: Tech Talks Visitors will be able to experience the broad ZEISS portfolio, from surface measurement systems and microscopy to optical machines to CT systems. Learn about CT systems that can be configured for both manual and automated loading; digital microscopes, with the new real-time all-in-focus optical inspection; and multisensor measuring machines enabling you to optimally measure each characteristic  optically or by contact. The latest 3D scanning technologies will be on hand for demonstration at the ZEISS booth, and the Capture 3D booth, #812. For more informationvisit www.zeiss.com/metrology or call 1-800-327-9735.



About ZEISS

ZEISS is an internationally leading technology enterprise operating in the fields of optics and optoelectronics. In the previous fiscal year, the ZEISS Group generated annual revenue totaling 6.3 billion euros in its four segments Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology, Industrial Quality & Research, Medical Technology and Consumer Markets (status: 30 September 2020). For its customers, ZEISS develops, produces and distributes highly innovative solutions for industrial metrology and quality assurance, microscopy solutions for the life sciences and materials research, and medical technology solutions for diagnostics and treatment in ophthalmology and microsurgery. The name ZEISS is also synonymous with the world's leading lithography optics, which are used by the chip industry to manufacture semiconductor components. There is global demand for trendsetting ZEISS brand products such as eyeglass lenses, camera lenses and binoculars.

With a portfolio aligned with future growth areas like digitalization, healthcare and Smart Production and a strong brand, ZEISS is shaping the future of technology and constantly advancing the world of optics and related fields with its solutions. The company's significant, sustainable investments in research and development lay the foundation for the success and continued expansion of ZEISS' technology and market leadership. ZEISS invests 13 percent of its revenue in research and development  this high level of expenditure has a long tradition at ZEISS and is also an investment in the future. With over 32,000 employees, ZEISS is active globally in almost 50 countries with around 30 production sites, 60 sales and service companies and 27 research and development facilities. Founded in 1846 in Jena, the company is headquartered in Oberkochen, Germany. The Carl Zeiss Foundation, one of the largest foundations in Germany committed to the promotion of science, is the sole owner of the holding company, Carl Zeiss AG. Further information at www.zeiss.com ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions

ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions is a leading manufacturer of multidimensional metrology solutions. These include coordinate measuring machines, optical and multisensor systems, microscopy systems for industrial quality assurance as well as metrology software for the automotive, aircraft, mechanical engineering, plastics and medical technology industries. Innovative technologies such as 3D X-ray metrology for quality inspection round off the portfolio. In addition, ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions offers a broad global spectrum of customer services with ZEISS Quality Excellence Centers close to its customers. The company is headquartered in Oberkochen. Production and development sites outside Germany are located in Minneapolis in the USA, Shanghai, China and Bangalore, India. ZEISS Industrial Quality Solutions is part of the Industrial Quality & Research segment. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/zeiss-connects-to-productivity-with-industry-specific-trends-in-focus-301408069.html SOURCE Carl Zeiss Industrial Metrology, LLC

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[October 25, 2021] MioTech Raises Additional Financing from J.P. Morgan Asset Management and HSBC Asset Management's Financial Technology Venture Capital Fund

HONG KONG, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- MioTech announced today that it has secured investments from J.P. Morgan Asset Management and HSBC Asset Management's Financial Technology Venture Capital Fund. This is an extension to its latest series B+ funding round led by Guotai Junan International and GIC. The company's earlier investors include ZhenFund, Horizons Ventures, TOM Group, Moody's, and HSBC. The new investments mark the fourth funding round MioTech has completed in the past twelve months, further solidifying MioTech as the leading AI-based sustainability data and technology provider in Asia and across the globe. The new capital will go toward accelerating talent acquisition, expansion into new international markets, as well as developing existing and new product lines. With increasing regulatory pressure and evolving investor, corporate and consumer demand, MioTech expects to capture fast-growing market needs for green tech and sustainability solutions with its proprietary technologies. "MioTech is a global company," said Jason Tu, Co-founder and CEO of MioTech. "J.P. Morgan Asset Management and HSBC Asset Management are world-renowned investors. Together with our existing investors, they will help us grow our business lines and footprints across the globe. We look forward to connecting China, Asia, and the whole world with our sustainable technologies." "We are thrilled to become a strategic investor in MioTech and partner with the company to advance our sustainable investing efforts in China, with greater access to a wide and evolving range of alternative ESG data sets," said Jennifer Wu, Global Head of Sustainable Investing, J.P. Morgan Asset Management. "MioTech's ability to utilize AI to gather and assess unstructured ESG data sets will provide valuable inputs to our fundamental research. This will enhance our consideration of material ESG risks and opportunities in our active investment processes and help us to support our global and China clients in making sustainable investment decisions. With valuable expertise into the ESG data and factors that are unique to China, MioTech's capabilities will also help to advance the development of our proprietary quantitative ESG scoring system," she added. Remi Bourrette, Head of Venture and Growth Investments, HSBC Asset Management said: "The fiancial industry is at a turning point where it has started to embrace sustainability and now must fully embed it in its operations, product design and risk management. We believe MioTech's technology and solutions give it a distinct advantage in the space and that the company will become a major player in this transition. We are delighted to provide investors of our newly launched VC fund with exposure to such a promising company in a key growth area."



ABOUT MIOTECH MioTech uses artificial intelligence to solve the sustainability, climate change, carbon emissions reduction, and social responsibility challenges faced by financial institutions, corporations, and individuals. Its comprehensive coverage of ESG data helps financial institutions make the right decisions in green finance and responsible investments. Its software helps corporations manage ESG reporting, improve energy efficiency, track and reduce carbon emissions. Its app builds green-conscious communities and promotes low-carbon lifestyles among individuals.

MioTech has offices in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Beijing, and Singapore. Its world-renowned investors include ZhenFund, Horizons Ventures, TOM Group, Moody's, HSBC, Guotai Junan International, GIC, J.P. Morgan Asset Management, and HSBC Asset Management's Financial Technology Venture Capital Fund. For more information, please visit https://www.miotech.com ABOUT J.P. MORGAN ASSET MANAGEMENT J.P. Morgan Asset Management, with assets under management of USD $2.7 trillion (as of 30 September 2021), is a global leader in investment management. J.P. Morgan Asset Management's clients include institutions, retail investors and high net worth individuals in every major market throughout the world. J.P. Morgan Asset Management offers global investment management in equities, fixed income, real estate, hedge funds, private equity and liquidity. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a leading financial services firm based in the United States of America ("U.S."), with operations worldwide. JPMorgan Chase had USD $3.8 trillion in assets and USD $290.0 billion in stockholders' equity as of September 30, 2021. The Firm is a leader in investment banking, financial services for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing and asset management. Under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands, the Firm serves millions of customers in the U.S., and many of the world's most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients globally. Information about JPMorgan Chase & Co. is available at www.jpmorganchase.com . ABOUT HSBC ASSET MANAGEMENT'S FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY VENTURE CAPITAL FUND HSBC Asset Management launched a new venture capital investment strategy, the HSBC Financial Technology Venture Capital Fund, in July 2021 which is aimed at investing in companies that will participate in the transformation of financial services. The Fund provides clients with exposure to B2B companies which offer either software or financial services to enterprises or institutions. It will typically participate in series A and B funding rounds of companies with business activity in Europe and Asia. The Fund is run by Remi Bourrette, Head of Venture & Growth Investments and Kara Byun, Director, Venture & Growth Investment. HSBC ASSET MANAGEMENT HSBC Asset Management, the investment management business of the HSBC Group, invests on behalf of HSBC's worldwide customer base of retail and private clients, intermediaries, corporates and institutions through both segregated accounts and pooled funds. HSBC Asset Management connects HSBC's clients with investment opportunities around the world through an international network of offices in 25 countries and territories, delivering global capabilities with local market insight. As at 30 September 2021, HSBC Asset Management managed assets totaling US$619bn on behalf of its clients. For more information, see www.assetmanagement.hsbc.com/uk HSBC Asset Management is the brand name for the asset management business of HSBC Group, which includes the investment activities provided through our local regulated entity, HSBC Global Asset Management (UK) Limited. SOURCE MioTech

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[October 25, 2021] Mastercard Introduces Accessible Card for Blind and Partially Sighted People

Mastercard extends its commitment to inclusivity by introducing a new accessible card standard for blind and partially sighted people, called the Touch Card. There are few effective ways for the visually impaired to quickly determine whether they're holding a credit, debit or prepaid card, particularly as more cards move to flat designs without embossed name and numbers. Mastercard is addressing this challenge with a simple yet effective innovation. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005836/en/ Mastercard Touch Card (Photo: Business Wire) "The Touch Card will provide a greater sense of security, inclusivity and independence to the 2.2 billion people around the world with visual impairments," says Raja Rajamannar, chief marketing and communications officer. "For the visually impaired, identifying their payment cards is a real struggle. This tactile solution allows consumers to correctly orient the card and know which payment card they are using." With the new Touch Card, Mastercard has improved upon a current design standard by introducing a system of notches on the side of the card to help consumers use the right card, the right way, by touch alone. The new Touch Card credit cards have a round notch; debit cards have a broad squarish notch; and prepaid cards have a triangular notch. The standard has been designed to wor with point-of-sale terminals and ATMs, ensuring it can be deployed at scale.



Mastercard's concept has been vetted and endorsed by The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) in the U.K. and VISIONS/Services for the Blind and Visually Impaired in the U.S. The card was co-designed by IDEMIA, the global leader in Augmented Identity, providing trusted solutions in the physical as well as digital space. "As the banking industry responds to new trends and developments, it's critical that any innovation brings progress for everyone, including those with a visual impairment," says David Clarke (News - Alert), RNIB's director of services. "We're very pleased that Mastercard understands how important it is that blind and partially sighted people have equal and independent access to their own finances."

"Innovation should always be driven by the impulse to include," adds Rajamannar, who is also the company's Healthcare president. "With one in seven people experiencing some form of disability, designing these products with accessibility in mind gives them equal opportunity to benefit from the ease and security of a digital world. No one should be left behind." Mastercard has been embedding its signature melody at checkout counters worldwide, a signal to everyone - the sight impaired in particular - that their card transaction has gone through successfully. Mastercard's launch of the Touch Card underscores its commitment to inclusivity. It follows the introduction of True Name, designed in support of the transgender and non-binary communities. The company's commitment as a brand is to not only stand against inequity but to be an agent for change. About Mastercard (NYSE: MA) Mastercard is a global technology company in the payments industry. Our mission is to connect and power an inclusive, digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere by making transactions safe, simple, smart and accessible. Using secure data and networks, partnerships and passion, our innovations and solutions help individuals, financial institutions, governments and businesses realize their greatest potential. Our decency quotient, or DQ, drives our culture and everything we do inside and outside of our company. With connections across more than 210 countries and territories, we are building a sustainable world that unlocks priceless possibilities for all.

www.mastercard.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005836/en/

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[October 25, 2021] Wasabi Technologies Accelerates APAC Operations and Growth with New Storage Region in Osaka

Extended partnership with NTT Communications Corporation enhances Wasabi's availability and speed of services in the region BOSTON and OSAKA, Japan, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Wasabi Technologies, the hot cloud storage company, today announced a new storage region in Osaka, Japan that will expand the availability and speed of services throughout the region following the launch of Wasabi's Japanese headquarters in Tokyo in June 2021. Wasabi has strengthened its strategic partnership with NTT Communications Corporation , with NTT serving as the cornerstone tenant at the Osaka location while Wasabi expands its operations footprint to meet the exploding demand for cloud storage infrastructure in Japan and across Asia. According to IDC's Worldwide Public Cloud Infrastructure as a Service Market Shares, 2020 Report (Doc #US47350821e, July 2021), APJ is the fastest growing region in the world for the adoption of public cloud IaaS, increasing by 38% in 2020. More contries in this region are adopting the cloud, and customers are particularly apt to want multiple copies of the data in the cloud. This requires at least two locations to meet the base performance requirements, in addition to strategic infrastructure needed to protect data against natural disasters, ransomware attacks, and other potential risks.



"Japan is one of the world's most forward-looking countries when it comes to cloud infrastructure, and NTT has been a critical partner for us as we continue to expand our business in this unique market," said David Friend, CEO and Co-Founder of Wasabi. "By strengthening our relationship with NTT in Osaka and fortifying our operations across the country, Wasabi is well positioned to deliver best-in-class hot cloud storage service to new customers, technology partners, resellers and Managed Service Providers (MSP's) in Japan." Wasabi Hot Cloud Storage has redefined the industry with a solution that is 1/5th the cost of Amazon S3, with no fees for egress or API requests and requires no vendor lock-in. Businesses are able to securely and affordably store all of their data and access it the moment they need it. It's also an ideal product for the channel because every organization needs to store data and Wasabi is simple to understand, bundle with other products and sell.

Wasabi's customer base is growing exponentially worldwide storing data ranging from backups, disaster and ransomware recovery and archiving to surveillance video, medical imaging, scientific research, education, genomics, AI/ML data lakes, blockchain, television, movies and government data. The Osaka location is Wasabi's seventh storage region, in addition to its existing locations in Virginia (2 separate locations) Hillsboro, Oregon; Dallas, TX; Amsterdam, NL; and Tokyo. Wasabi plans to open additional storage regions in multiple locations in the next 6 - 12 months. For more information please visit our website and our Japanese landing page. About Wasabi Technologies Wasabi provides simple, predictable and affordable hot cloud storage for businesses all over the world. It enables organizations to store and instantly access an unlimited amount of data at 1/5th the price of the competition with no complex tiers or unpredictable egress fees. Trusted by tens of thousands of customers worldwide, Wasabi has been recognized as one of technology's fastest-growing and most visionary companies. Created by Carbonite co-founders and cloud storage pioneers David Friend and Jeff Flowers, Wasabi has secured nearly $275 million in funding to date and is a privately held company based in Boston. Follow and connect with Wasabi on Twitter , Facebook , Instagram , and our blog . Wasabi PR contact

Kaley Carpenter

Inkhouse for Wasabi

[email protected] Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/525079/Wasabi_Logo.jpg SOURCE Wasabi Technologies

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[October 25, 2021] QuEST delivers next-gen AI & Edge Computing solutions in Japan with NVIDIA

The collaboration aims to transform digital engineering services across Hi-Tech, Medical Devices, Power and Automotive industries TOKYO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- QuEST Global, a global product engineering and lifecycle services company, recently announced that NVIDIA had named it an Elite Service Delivery Partner in the NVIDIA Partner Network (NPN) USA. NVIDIA has now extended the collaboration to Japan as well. This highest-level status is awarded to organizations that have demonstrated excellence in utilizing NVIDIA-accelerated computing technology solutions. This elevated relationship in the Japan region will further enable QuEST in delivering next-gen AI solutions to its Japanese customers with NVIDIA. The collaboration between QuEST and NVIDIA will realize digital business transformation and connected engineering experience for customers in Japan using AI and Edge computing. QuEST will now have early and extended access to NVIDIA's platforms and software, newly released solutions, workshops, and technology updates. Additionally, QuEST will have access to NVIDIA's Executive Briefing Centres in different regions to showcase its innovative solutions built on NVIDIA technologies. As an NPN member, QuEST has been leveraging NVIDIA's AI platform to enhance its vision inspection & defect detection solution targeted towards the industrial and manufacturing sector. The solution uses NVIDIA DGX systems to train custom vision AI models thatare then deployed for high-speed edge inference and training that allows QuEST customers to do rapid PoCs, leading to improved operational intelligence and an enhanced decision-making process.



With deep learning becoming a key driver in the digital transformation of organizations, the vision inspection and defect detection solution will showcase QuEST's capability to leverage NVIDIA GPUs to develop real-world use cases that tackle cross-industry concerns. QuEST will continue to work on AI use cases that could be applied for autonomous vehicles, computer vision, inspection, predictive maintenance, logistics, drones, robotics, etc. Rajeev Nair, Vice President and Head of Japan Business, QuEST Global, said, "We are extremely proud that our NPN Elite partner status has been extended to Japan. QuEST is already engaged with key Japanese customers in Hi-Tech, Medical Devices, Power and Automotive domain providing engineering and digital services. The NPN partnership will help us further our efforts and provide the best to our customers in Japan."

He further added, "QuEST's collaboration with NVIDIA in Japan will help accelerate AI-based digital transformation across our customers. We look forward to working with NVIDIA to spur technology-driven business innovation and growth for customers across industries." "We are pleased to welcome QuEST as an NPN Elite Partner not only in the U.S., but also in Japan," said Masataka Osaki, Japan Country Manager and Vice President of Corporate Sales at NVIDIA. "The NPN Elite-level status is reserved for partners who demonstrate a history of expertise in the areas of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning. We hope that QuEST's solutions and services, based on NVIDIA's AI technology, will further boost the Japanese industry." Apart from being an NPN member, QuEST was also one of the first companies worldwide to be selected for the NVIDIA Deep Learning Consulting Partnership Program and has been part of the NVIDIA Jetson Partner Ecosystem since 2018. QuEST developed one of its innovative solutions  lung cancer nodule detection from CT scans  using the NVIDIA Jetson edge AI platform. The solution, developed for clinical diagnostics and cancer screening applications, supports radiologists. It uses the Jetson platform for deep neural network training and validation to develop models that enhance the accuracy of CT image analysis compared to conventional image processing methods. About QuEST Global For more than 24 years, QuEST Global has been a trusted global product engineering services partner to many of the world's most recognized companies in the Aerospace & Defense, Automotive, Energy, Hi-Tech, Healthcare and Medical Devices, Rail and Semiconductor industries. With a presence in 13 countries, 54 global delivery centers and 11,500+ personnel, QuEST Global is at the forefront of the convergence of the mechanical, electronics, software and digital engineering innovations to engineer solutions for a safer, cleaner and sustainable world. QuEST Global's deep domain knowledge and digital expertise help its clients accelerate product development and innovation cycles, create alternate revenue streams, enhance consumer experience and make manufacturing processes and operations more efficient.

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[October 25, 2021] Data-as-a-Service Startup QoreNext Closes Seed Funding Round, Backed by Wavemaker Partners

QoreNext, a Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) provider for the enterprise B2B market, has raised US$1.5 million in seed funding from Wavemaker Partners, one of Southeast Asia's leading venture capital firms. Previously, the Singapore- and Seattle-based startup closed an angel investment round from leaders in the insights, payments, and data spaces. Founded by data scientist and entrepreneur Rahul Sahgal, QoreNext has applied machine learning to robotic process automation via its collaborative platform. The business idea was based on IP specifically carved out of Annik, the data and analytics company Sahgal founded and sold to French IT services giant CapGemini. Annik was part of a private equity-driven roll-up under digital customer engagement firm LiquidHub, which was acquied for US$500 million in 2018.



Rahul realized that corporations expend a great deal of time and resources in acquiring data from various common public sources and then maintaining this data to their high standards. He recognized that there were better ways to resolve this pervasive issue. The Qore platform changes the way foundational data is produced and consumed, while the virtual collaborative aspect brings the gig-economy model into the corporate data management world. This precludes the need for armies of data stewards or editors. "We have already had many constructive discussions with corporates that show a genuine interest in our data offerings", said Rahul Sahgal, founder and CEO of QoreNext. "In Wavemaker, we are excited to have found the perfect partner to help us get the company to the next level."

Paul Santos, Managing Partner of Wavemaker Partners said, "With over a decade of industry experience and a successful exit under his belt, Rahul deeply understands the problems faced by enterprises when it comes to data. QoreNext's ML-RPA-driven approach not only allows for various cost-efficient optimizations and automations within data science teams, but also gives companies access to foundational data that are vital for decision-making. We are confident that with the team's extensive network and experience, they are best-placed to scale their solution globally across verticals, starting from the US." Headquartered in Singapore, WaveMaker is Southeast Asia's go-to VC firm investing in B2B and deep tech. Since 2012, it has backed 140+ companies, of which 85% are in enterprise and deep tech. The firm has US$180 million in AUM across three funds and has seen 10 exits valued at close to US$700 million. The seed round will help the QoreNext platform to advance production of its main modules and to bring its first set of data products to the market. For more information on QoreNext, visit qorenext.com. About QoreNext QoreNext is a Singapore- and Seattle-based tech startup that is re-inventing the future of data creation for the enterprise B2B market. It consists of a platform for enterprise data content, powered by machine learning and robotic process automation. From healthcare to finance, corporations need data to operate. QoreNext is created to be a virtual data factory, where customers can leverage its interconnected data products with seamless integration-always updated and current. QoreNext provides its clients with reliable high-quality data, with a flexible DaaS pricing model. This results in business-ready data that allows major time and cost savings. With a remote-first, office-agnostic approach, the QoreNext team is distributed across North America, APAC, and India. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005300/en/

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[October 25, 2021] Wuxi, the IoT city light up the world

WUXI, China, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- On October 23, the 2021 World Internet of Things (IoT) Wuxi Summit was held, kicking off the 2021 World Internet of Things Expo. Experts from the global IoT industry gathered in Wuxi for infinite possibilities brought about by digital transformation and hope for a bright future in the IoT and the digital world.

Du Xiaogang, Secretary of the Wuxi Municipal Party Committee of CPC, said in his speech, "The interconnection of all things will light up the world for us; digital civilization is our new future. In this sense, the expo is the best platform for us to see the future." In the past 12 years, Wuxi has been deeply involved in the IoT and is known as the Capital of the IoT. The annual World IoT Expo has become the most important exchange and sharing event among IoT researchers, industries, and cities, according to the organizing committee of 2021 World IoT Expo.

Nestled between Changzhou and Suzhou on the banks of Taihu Lake, Wuxi was originally established in 202 BCE during the Han dynasty, and later, during the Sui and Tang dynasty, became a hub for rice and textile exports with the opening of China's Grand Canal. More recently, the city became known for its well-developed manufacturing industry -- but over the last twelve years, Wuxi has grown once more, from a modern industrial and commercial base to an advanced manufacturing city synonymous with the internet of things (IoT).





Home to over 3,000 companies specializing in IoT, Wuxi now plays an important part in advancing China's IoT sector and the national strategy for high-tech development. For example, the local government pioneered China's first environmental protection project using smart technology--setting up a network of sensors to better monitor the water quality of Lake Tai. The city also takes a leading role in the exploration of IoT and building a complete industrial chain of chips, sensing devices, network communications, intelligent hardware and application services, with an industrial scale totalling more than 300 billion yuan (US$465 million) in 2020. With a focus on IoT, internet of vehicles, smart transportation, intelligent manufacturing, smart cities, big data, 5G and AI, Wuxi's tech industry is poised to continue its rapid expansion going forward into the era of intelligent connectivity.



"The past 12 years was the start," says Vice Mayor Gao. "In the future, further integration of AI with IoT will have a long-term and far-reaching impact. With greater interconnectivity, the tangible benefits IoT will be seen and felt by more people, and recognition of these benefits will mean great potential for IoT in China and the rest of the world."

Wuxi has a great deal to offer companies, investors, entrepreneurs and researchers in the field of IoT. The city stands as a remarkable example of an explorer, promoter, and supporter of this game-changing technology, as well as a witness to the benefits its application can bring.

For more information on how to remotely visit the World IoT Exposition, go to https://www.wiotexpo.cn/#/ View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/wuxi-the-iot-city-light-up-the-world-301408060.html SOURCE The Organizing Committee of 2021 World IoT Expo

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[October 25, 2021] 2021 Hainan Free Trade Port Worldwide Talent Attraction Program was launched

HAIKOU, China, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- October 24th, aiming to recruit talents from over 1000 higher education institutions, students and scholars associations, social groups, and organizations, in China and abroad, the highest annual pay for the first batch of over 36,000 positions that have been released is more than $350,000, according to Publicity Department of Hainan Party Committee. Zhang Jinan, Head of the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China, says that the 2021 Hainan Free Trade Port Worldwide Talent Attraction Program, co-hosted by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security of China and the People's Government of Hainan Province, is to recruit talents of all fields from around the world to meet the urgent needs of Hainan Free Trade Port. The recruitment is from October 2021 to June 2022, focusing on pillar industries with Hainan characteristics, strategic and emerging industries, and high-tech and cutting-edge industries, especially the three major industries -- tourism, modern services industries, and high-tech industries. /p>



Hainan Province , including GDP of Hainan , fixed assets investment, total retail sales of consumer goods, have witnessed rapid growth. Xu Qifang, Head of the Organization Department of Hainan Party Committee, says tha t H ainan has introduced 260,000 talents since June 2020 , a year-on-year increase of 391% compared with that before the release of the Master Plan. Xu Qifang adds that Hainan has issued a series of favorable policies in taxation, household registration, house purchase, car purchase, schooling support for children, and heathcare since 2018 to attract talents. To facilitate overseas talents to work in Hainan, Hainan has made 38 types of professional qualification examinations available to overseas talents including registered architect qualification and licensed pharmacist qualifcation, and has recognized 219 professional qualifications acquired overseas. Regarding taxation, the high-end talents and talents urgently needed in Hainan work in Hainan will only be taxed at a rate up to 15% for their actual tax burden of the individual income tax, if their actual tax rate is higher than 15%.

In terms of healthcare, Hainan spends 3,000 to 10,000 yuan to purchase commercial health insurance for groups for every high-end talent working full time in Hainan. In addition, Hainan implements many attractive talents-related programs. Those teams rated as "Hainan Excellent Talents Teams" will be granted 10 to 30 million yuan as the construction fund. Shen Xiaoming, Secretary of Hainan Provincial Party Committee, says that it is now a critical period when Hainan is deepening the program and operating up in all-round way and constructing the free trade port. Hainan has a favorable environment for talents and looks forward to embracing talents from all over the world to make the best use of their talents. Image Attachments Links: Link: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=405141

Caption: Publicity Department of Hainan Party Committee View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/2021-hainan-free-trade-port-worldwide-talent-attraction-program-was-launched-301408078.html SOURCE Publicity Department of Hainan Party Committee

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[October 25, 2021] DroneTech Startup Poladrone Raises US$4.29 million in Malaysia's Largest Seed Round

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Poladrone, an end-to-end drone solutions provider headquartered in Malaysia, has raised US$4.29 million (RM18 million) in a Seed round led by Wavemaker Partners, one of Southeast Asia's leading venture capital firms. Other investors that participated in the round include the Malaysian Technology Development Corporation (MTDC), a strategic investment fund wholly owned by the Khazanah Nasional Berhad, ZB Capital Limited (a Hong Kong-based principal investment firm), and angel investors. With support from the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), Poladrone launched Oryctes in August 2020 as the world's first precision spot spraying drone to introduce an efficient and automated solution to the oil palm industry. In oil palm plantations, rhinoceros beetles are known as a serious pest to immature palms, affecting their photosynthetic ability and considerably reducing fruit yield. Frequent pesticide spraying exercises are required to maintain plant health. In Malaysia, spraying activities using knapsacksprayers and tractors are both labour-intensive and detrimental to workers' health. The labour shortage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated adoption of the technology and Poladrone has quadrupled their team from 20 to over 80 in less than a year to cope with the demand.



Cheong Jin Xi (JX), Poladrone's Founder and CEO, stated that: "The funding round will allow us to scale up operations to better serve customers across the region, and to attract top talents to further improve our products." Poladrone is setting up Service Centres in agricultural towns to offer "Sales, Service, and Spare Parts" in Malaysia and Thailand, and is looking to expand to other markets in the region, specifically Indonesia. The Service Centres will also act as Centres of Excellence, where industrial training and knowledge sharing will be conducted to boost the adoption of drone technology.

Poladrone has also recently launched Mist Drone  a blanket spraying agriculture drone that is better suited for open field crops, such as paddy, corn, and banana. "Many of our customers rely on drones to earn a living, and downtime is detrimental to their livelihood. As most operations happen away from metropolitan areas, our Service Centres will provide better accessibility to customers to quickly maintain or repair their equipment. We are extremely excited to partner with the team at Wavemaker and MTDC who share the same vision, putting our customers' needs at the heart of our growth strategy," said Cheong. "Having been brought up in a household of agricultural operators all the while spending over a decade working on his passion for drones, Jin Xi knows precisely what problems plantation owners face and how automation can help. It has been amazing to see him and the Poladrone team's approach to building localized solutions that are highly efficient, cost-effective, and tailored to plantations of all sizes. Poladrone now works with eight out of 10 of the biggest palm oil plantations in Malaysia - an impressive feat that gives us confidence to back the team and their vision of propelling Southeast Asia's agriculture industry," said Gavin Lee, General Partner at Wavemaker Partners. "Our investment in Poladrone will spur the adoption of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) in the agriculture sector in line with the National 4IR Policy and the recently launched 12th Malaysian Plan. The technology offered by Poladrone would be able to reduce the reliance on foreign workers especially in the palm oil industry while at the same time helps increase the number of knowledge workers in the drone industry," said MTDC. "The DroneTech ecosystem is largely fragmented in the region. With the right team, funding, and support, we aim to be the leading player for all industrial drone related solutions," Cheong added. For more information, see the Poladrone Media Kit . SOURCE Poladrone

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[October 25, 2021] Asosiasi Blockchain Indonesia (Indonesian Blockchain Association) Appreciates the NFT Launch of the Wali Songo Historical Painting

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Oct. 25, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Blockchain technology industry is developing quite rapidly, one of which is NFT (Non-Fungible Token) that is currently attracting the world's attention. NFT can be interpreted as a type of blockchain technology which refers to a token created by one of the developers on the Ethereum platform. Simply put, NFT can also be defined as a token that is proof of legal ownership of a digital asset, specifically digital artwork such as audio, video, visual art, and graphics. NFT has unique, original, and rare characteristics so that currently NFT is one of the new types of crypto assets that is becoming mainstream and a trend in the global industry and is now starting to be loved in Indonesia. NFT first appeared in 2014, but the trend of NFT began to increase in popularity quite rapidly since Mike Winkelmann (Beeple), a digital artist, sold his digital artwork in the form of a photo collage "Everyday: The First 5000 Days" with a value of US$ 69.3 million, more or ess equivalent to Rp. 1 Trillion. Quoted from Media Indonesia, one of the Supervisory Boards of the Indonesian Blockchain Association, Pandu Sastrowardoyo explained that the uniqueness of a work of art lies in the essence of rarity or the scarcity of works sold by a digital artist, so this attracts the attention of art collectors willing to spend money whose value is fantastic enough to collect a work of art through a well-known auction house, so that NFT is the answer to how digital art can have the essence of rarity.



The popularity of NFT which is on the rise is now also spreading to Indonesia, one of the Indonesian digital artists named BENTARA (Begawan Network Nusantara) launched the NFT of the historic painting -- Wali Songo, each of whom was riding a horse with the background of the Great Mosque of Demak with the nuances of Fajr riding a horse after getting permission from the owner. The painting is thought to have been made by Raden Sayyid in 1871. BENTARA has NFT of the 150-year-old painting with the aim of selling the NFT for the endowment of da'wah and activities for memorizing the Qur'an (Hafiz/ Hafizah) in Indonesia and abroad. Asih Karnengsih, MM as Chairwoman of the Indonesian Blockchain Association also appreciated, "BENTARA's brilliant idea to NFT Wali Songo's historic painting, besides this idea having a noble goal to fund the activities of memorizing the Qur'an, but this is a breath of fresh air to motivate digital artists in Indonesia and local Indonesian artists to rise from adversity during the pandemic." Asih said that "NFT can be a great solution or opportunity for local artists in Indonesia to work and can help the economy for these local artists."

SOURCE Asosiasi Blockchain Indonesia

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[October 26, 2021] JAIN Online Co-Hosts Techspectations EDUCATE Summit 2021

NEP will build 'Aspirational New India', emphasizes Shri Dharmendra Pradhan at Techspectations EDUCATE summit 2021, co-hosted by JAIN Online The full-day unique event witnessed participation of around 20+ industry experts in 8 insightful sessions discussing the paradigm shift, opportunities, and challenges in the education space,

Dr. CN Ashwath Narayan, Hon'ble Minister of Higher Education, Information Technology and Biotechnology, Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka addressed the session with a lead talk on National Education Policy & its broader impact on Education Eco-system

Dr. Chenraj Roychand, Chancellor, JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), delivered an inaugural speech on how "Digital Education" is leading the way for innovation and emerging technologies BENGALURU, India, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- JAIN Online, the e-learning arm of JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University), today successfully co-hosted Techspectations EDUCATE 2021. The full-day summit enabled the platform to discuss the emerging possibilities and challenges transforming the Indian education sector in the new normal world. Around 20+ Industry experts in 8+ insightful sessions delved deep into the pressing issues of the education sector, due to the pandemic. The event was attended by 2000+ delegates. The Keynote address at the Summit was delivered by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon'ble Minister of Education and Minister of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India. He emphasized that NEP's role in building an aspirational India as well as the opportunities and challenges that lie therein. During his speech, Hon'ble Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said, "NEP is going to transform our education landscape as per the needs of aspirational new India. This policy has come at a time when disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality have taken solid routes into many sectors. These technologies present several opportunities for our children and teachers. NEP 2020 has a special focus on Digital education. Our government has announced National Digital Education Architecture ((NDEAR), a unifying national digital infrastructure to energize the entire education ecosystem." Highlighting another major reform in education technology - National Education Technology Forum (NETF), Shri Dharmendra Pradhan said, "NETF will provide a platform for a free exchange of ideas in the use of technology to enhance learning, assessment, planning, administration, and several other aspects of the school as well as in higher education. The NETF will facilitate decision-making in the induction, deployment, and use of technology. It will not only provide the latest knowledge and research but also the opportunities to consult and share best practices with state governments, education institutions, and other stakeholders. We must recognize the importance of leveraging the advantage of technology while at the same time acknowledge the potential risk and dangers". Shri Pradhan also emphasized that the benefits of digital infrastruture can be fully utilized when every student will have all access to digital devices. The Digital India campaign is a major initiative to bridge the digital divide in the country. "PM eVIDYA program and the Vidyanjali portal have been rolled out with the specific intention of bridging the digital divide.



Dr. CN Ashwath Narayan, Hon'ble Minister of Higher Education, Information Technology and Biotechnology, Science and Technology, Government of Karnataka said, "Technology has become a solution in taking education to every student during the pandemic. Karnataka took the lead in adopting advanced technology and offering online education to the students. The Karnataka Government launched the first-of-its-kind comprehensive learning management system in the interest of the students. Through this, we were able to create a lot of educational content which empowered us to develop close to 3.5 lakh classes in just one semester, supplemented by audio, visual, and best possible examples for effective learning. Further, this was supported by internet-enabled smart classrooms. Today, we have more than 8000 classrooms in the state higher education including engineering, polytechnic, and degree. We have already enabled 2500 classrooms and the remaining 5500 classrooms will be integrated within a short time. Besides this, we have provided more than 3 lakh students with tabs/laptops to ensure and encourage the concept of any time and anywhere learning. Our student-centered learning approach and performance review will improve the efficiency of our students and secure the best education." He further added, "We have brought in accountability, transparency, efficiency, and accessibility through our unified university and college management system initiation. We have been able to connect with all the stakeholders of the education sector in real-time, ensuring the free flow of data that helps for the holistic development of the sector. So, we continue to make ample use of technology to strengthen our education system, thereby, the National Education Policy (NEP) can be implemented to its fullest. In this direction, Karnataka is the first state to set up a Task Force for the successful implementation of NEP which was constituted in March 2020. The implementation of NEP in Karnataka was initiated in 2021 and has been welcomed by all the stakeholders. Therefore, I strongly believe that the NEP will strengthen the country to look forward to and compete with the rest of the world to be ahead."

Speaking on his felicitation address, Dr. Chenraj Roychand, Chancellor, JAIN (Deemed-to-be-University) said, "It is a great honor to witness the magnetic presence of Hon'ble Union Minister Shri. Dharmendra Pradhan and Hon'ble State Minister Shri. CN Ashwath Narayan joined us along with top educationalists, technologists, and decision-makers who are passionate about transforming India's educational landscape with their new innovative ideas, latest tech, and best practices, on this platform. The Indian education sector has been witnessing a paradigm shift from the traditional model of learning to the imperative mode of learning. The onset of the pandemic has driven the need for online learning, demanding educators to adapt themselves to the changing situations. India has quickly responded to the changes and adopted a new-age digitized learning mechanism. Pioneers in the tech sector and leading universities have also come up with e-learning solutions to make learning more efficient. Today, almost every student has a smartphone in his or her pocket with access to high-speed internet enabling them to innovate and create new ideas". However, there are challenges we continue to face in the largest education system. Due to this, a large section of experts still advocates for theatrical learning, rote learning, and exam-based learning. These challenges can be addressed by implementing collaborative, approach-centric, and project-based learning in our educational institutions. Our NEP comes as the best solution to many of our problems. NEP not only advocates for innovative ways of learning but also promotes digitization in education, paving the way for new quantum and emerging technologies." Dr. Raj Singh, Vice-Chancellor, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) and Mr. Tom Joseph, Director - New Initiatives, JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) chaired the panel discussion on the topic 'Online Upskilling Challenges & Vision Beyond 2021.' Techspectations EDUCATE is an annual summit organized by Manorama Online. It offers a holistic view of the overwhelming challenges and dynamic opportunities of online learning, which is also evolving at an exponential pace. Various stakeholders associated with the Edu-tech sector including academicians, school and college authorities, teachers & professors, students, researchers & scholars, parents, Government officials, EdTech companies, Platform developers, Tech gadget manufacturers, Internet Service Providers, Publishing Companies, Digital Start-ups, IT Professionals, Content Developers, and Animators will deliberate on the paradigm shift in the education sector triggered by the pandemic. About JAIN Online JAIN Online, part of the JAIN (Deemed-to-be University), is one of the leading online education providers in India. With skilled academic experts and digital innovators, JAIN Online offers learners the flexibility of studying from anywhere and at any time. The list of global and extensive education offered through the platform is aimed at empowering individuals to learn new skills through new-age and industry-relevant programs. JAIN Online is steadfast in its pursuit to offer diverse ways of learning that will help learners to advance their careers and life. Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1597999/JAIN_Online_Logo.jpg

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[October 26, 2021] Wiz Technologies Selects Storage-as-a-Service from Hewlett Packard Enterprise to Power SAP Business One on Cloud Offering

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) today announced that Wiz Technologies (WIZTECH), a private managed cloud service provider, is expanding its cloud service offering with HPE to build a managed private hosting infrastructure for SAP (News - Alert) Business One Solution workloads and drive new business growth. WIZTECH will be the first service provider in Singapore to utilize HPE Alletra, a new cloud-native data infrastructure solution that powers data edge-to-cloud and HPE Data Services Cloud Console for its new portfolio of SAP Business One cloud services, taking full advantage of the new cloud-native data infrastructure and data services from HPE. WIZTECH is a private managed cloud services provider in Singapore, providing a one-stop service to businesses for IT infrastructure solutions, private and public cloud services, web hosting, application development, and many more. The leading IT solutions provider, with regional operating offices across Asia, is expanding its cloud service portfolio with the launch of 'WIZTECH Cloud Services for SAP Business One' - a new robust, high performance, private cloud offering specially designed to support mission-critical SAP Business One workloads. This new cloud offering complements WIZTECH's existing general-purpose cloud that runs on HPE Nimble Strage dHCI.



WIZTECH selected the HPE Alletra 6000 to provide data services for its clients' SAP Business One workloads because it delivers mission-critical performance with 99.9999%+ guaranteed availability and offers the infrastructure as a service (IaaS). In addition, the WIZTECH Cloud Services for SAP Business One can be easily configured and deployed for its new data service via the HPE Data Services Cloud Console with intent-based provisioning to deliver an agile cloud and unified data operations to its customers. This enables WIZTECH to deliver an enhanced customer experience with the ability to respond to customer's demands swiftly and a faster time to market. "In designing the 'WIZTECH Cloud Services for SAP Business One' we wanted to offer our customers cloud flexibility and mission-critical levels of performance," said Desmond Chan, Managing Director of WIZTECH. "The performance guaranteed by HPE Alletra and the simplicity of the data services platform ensure we can easily manage all applications and workloads to deliver an instant scalable SAP Business One cloud services and solutions for our customers."

HPE recently unveiled a data services platform that delivers its Unified DataOps vision for a new data experience that brings a cloud operations model to unify data operations. The new platform is designed to address the data explosion edge-to-cloud, collapse the silos and complexity that plague data environments to reduce business risk and maximize agility and innovation. "Our latest innovations demonstrate how we are evolving our portfolio to meet our customer and partner needs and deliver the right as-a-service solutions for individual workload demands," added Joseph Yang, General Manager for Storage at Hewlett Packard Enterprise, APAC. "The HPE Alletra 6000 has enabled WIZTECH to develop its new cloud service for SAP Business One with superior performance, high availability and scalability." About Wiz Technologies WIZTECH is a one-stop regional IT solutions provider to businesses for end-to-end services such as cloud hosting, managed cybersecurity solutions, software development services, and many more. They help organizations to set up, secure, and manage their IT infrastructure efficiently with their comprehensive suite of services and solution offerings. WIZTECH is based in Singapore with regional offices in Shanghai, Tokyo, Gold Coast, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh, and Hanoi. Visit www.wiztechww.com for more information. About Hewlett Packard Enterprise Hewlett Packard Enterprise (NYSE: HPE) is the global edge-to-cloud company that helps organizations accelerate outcomes by unlocking value from all of their data, everywhere. Built on decades of reimagining the future and innovating to advance the way people live and work, HPE delivers unique, open and intelligent technology solutions delivered as a service - spanning Compute, Storage, Software, Intelligent Edge, High Performance Computing and Mission Critical Solutions - with a consistent experience across all clouds and edges, designed to help customers develop new business models, engage in new ways, and increase operational performance. For more information, visit: www.hpe.com View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005002/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Renesas' Innovative Automotive Chips Drive Next-Generation Multimedia System for Toyota Lexus

Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723), a premier supplier of advanced semiconductor solutions, today announced that its R-Car H3 and R-Car M3 system-on-chips (SoCs) have been adopted by Toyota Motor Corporation ("Toyota") for their next-generation multimedia systems. The Renesas R-Car H3 and R-Car M3 SoCs are designed for in-vehicle infotainment (IVI) applications that deliver images, audio, and a variety of information from both in-vehicle and external sources to the driver in a safe and convenient manner. Toyota's next-generation multimedia system will make its first appearance in the Lexus NX, scheduled for release in November 2021 and later. These systems are planned to be installed in other Lexus- and Toyota-branded vehicles. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005878/en/ Renesas' Automotive Chips Drive Next-Generation Multimedia System for Toyota Lexus (Graphic: Business Wire) Toyota's next-generation multimedia system incorporates a large-format, high-resolution, maximum 14-inch, wide touch display. The display area can be flexibly divided into sections and zoomed in and out, providing an outstanding combination of advanced functionality and convenience. The system features voice recognition functions, such as quick startup in response to voice commands, an automotive sound system, and an over-the-air (OTA) software update function. Within these functions, Renesas' R-Car SoCs provide the ability to smoothly import map information, images, and video input from users' preferred devices, including smartphones, and connected applications to the large display. They also enable functions such as display touch controls, voice recognition via the microphone input, and audio output to multiple speakers. In addition, the R-Car SoCs' sophisticated built-in security functions enable secure OTA software updates and provide advanced connected services powered by the SoCs' outstanding computing performance. As multimedia system functions vary based on the vehicle model,Toyota has implemented the R-Car H3 in systems for high-end models equipped with full functionality, and the mid-range R-Car M3 in other vehicle models. The R-Car Family provides excellent software compatibility across the product line, contributing to more efficient development when extending systems to a wide range of vehicle models. In addition, Renesas' broad array of R-Car ecosystem partners offered support for its development.



"In order to meet users' diversified needs in the CASE era, a new multimedia system was developed," said Masato Kobayashi, Director of Connected System Development Division at Toyota Motor Corporation. "Two of our biggest challenges in realizing the leading-edge system was the efficient development while securing the necessary performance and making complex automotive software. Renesas' R-Car SoCs are designed specifically for automotive applications, providing excellent performance and reliability, backed by a robust ecosystem - a combination that enabled us to create innovative multimedia systems." "I am delighted that Renesas' R-Car SoCs are part of Toyota's next-generation multimedia system, and that Lexus vehicles equipped with this functionality are coming to the market," said Takeshi Kataoka, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Automotive Solution Business Unit at Renesas Electronics Corporation. "I am excited that next-generation cockpit systems offering an intuitive user experience will be available in a wide range of car models moving forward, and that vehicles offering an enhanced user experience with security and convenience will become available worldwide."

About Renesas Electronics Corporation Renesas Electronics Corporation (TSE: 6723) delivers trusted embedded design innovation with complete semiconductor solutions that enable billions of connected, intelligent devices to enhance the way people work and live. A global leader in microcontrollers, analog, power, and SoC products, Renesas provides comprehensive solutions for a broad range of automotive, industrial, infrastructure, and IoT applications that help shape a limitless future. Learn more at renesas.com. Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. (Remarks). All names of products or services mentioned in this press release are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005878/en/

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[October 26, 2021] GHO Capital invests in Sanner Group, a leading global supplier of high-quality active packaging solutions and components for the Pharmaceutical, Diagnostic, Nutraceutical and MedTech industries

Global Healthcare Opportunities, or GHO Capital Partners LLP, the European specialist investor in global healthcare, announces its investment in Sanner Group, a leading global supplier of high-quality active packaging solutions and components for the Pharmaceutical, Diagnostic, Nutraceutical and MedTech industries. Headquartered in Germany and leveraging its best-in-class manufacturing facilities across France, Hungary and China, Sanner has successively developed from a global market leader for desiccant closures and effervescent tablet packaging into a sought-after provider of customized solutions in the areas of Medical & Diagnostics, Consumer Healthcare and Pharma. Today, Sanner produces more than four billion component parts each year and has over 600 employees. Sanner has recorded significant sales growth in recent years, with sales in 2020 increasing by more than 15 percent from 2019. The business is set to continue to deliver significant growth, benefitting from an attractive product portfolio and long-standing relationships with its diversified, blue chip customer base. Following the acquisition, GHO will work closely with existing management and the Sanner family, who remain closely involved with the business. GHO will support Sanner in accelerating growth plans through the expansion of manufacturing sites in Germany and China, and developing capabilities to facilitate expansion in U.S. markets. Leveraging Sanner's extensive R&D and manufacturing capabilities, GHO will support management to accelerate product expansion initiatives, sales and investment in business development to deliver margin improvements and increase capacity to drive growth. Sanner is committed to sustainability and has ambitious targets to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions while using materials more efficiently. The business has successfully reduced CO2 emisions by more than 40% at its Bensheim site, measured in terms of production volume since 2012. The business also plans to expand its use of bio-based plastics across its product portfolio, which contribute to climate protection by reducing CO2 emissions.



The Partners at GHO Capital, said, "Backed by more than 120 years of industry experience, Sanner is a recognised market leader with a standout reputation for innovation, quality and reliability. With our support, management are well placed to realise the shared ambition to accelerate Sanner's growth, investing in both existing facilities and operations as well as leveraging our US expertise to identify growth opportunities." Jurgen Sanner, shareholder of Sanner GmbH said: "We have been observing increasing consolidation in the market for some time now. As a medium-sized company, we must react if we want to remain successful in the long term. With GHO, we have found a strong partner that specializes in the healthcare and medtech sectors and offers us further opportunities for successful growth."

Wilkie Farr & Gallagher acted as legal advisor to GHO, Roland Berger as commercial advisor, Deloitte (News - Alert) LLP as financial and tax advisor and ERM as ESG advisor. Rittershaus acted as legal advisors to Sanner and Solid Trust as M&A advisors. - ENDS - About GHO Capital Global Healthcare Opportunities, or GHO Capital Partners LLP, is a leading specialist healthcare investment advisor based in London. We apply global capabilities and perspectives to unlock high growth healthcare opportunities, targeting Pan-European and transatlantic internationalisation to build market leading businesses of strategic global value. Our proven investment track record reflects the unrivalled depth of our industry expertise and network. We partner with strong management teams to generate long-term sustainable value, improving the efficiency of healthcare delivery to enable better, faster, more accessible healthcare. For further information, please visit www.ghocapital.com/. About Sanner Group Based in Bensheim, Germany, Sanner GmbH was founded in 1894 and is now in its fourth generation as a family-owned enterprise. Sanner develops and produces high-quality plastic packaging and components for pharmaceutical, medtech, diagnostics and healthcare products. Sanner is the world's leading manufacturer of desiccant closures and effervescent packaging solutions and produces four billion plastic parts each year for standard and customized packaging solutions. With approx. 600 employees in Germany, China, France, Hungary, the U.S., India and Indonesia, the company generated annual sales of approx. 98 million euros in 2020. www.sanner-group.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005607/en/

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[October 26, 2021] CSS Corp launches new delivery center in Romania to further strengthen European presence

- Delivery center to ramp up to 400 employees over 2 years BANGALORE, India, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- CSS Corp, a global customer experience and technology services provider, today announced the launch of its new global delivery center in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. The new center, CSS Corp's second in Europe after Poland, will leverage the highly skilled local talent with multilingual capabilities to deliver technical support and IT services to customers. This move is a part of CSS Corp's global expansion strategy to address growing business needs while enhancing its European delivery capabilities. With this launch, CSS Corp now has 20 delivery centers across the globe with over 10,000 employees. Cluj is the third-most populous city in Romania and an emerging technology and outsourced services hub. It has an attractive business environment, ease of access, and the availability of high-quality, diversified talent and technical skills. In 2015, Cluj was the #1 hub for IT export in Romania. It has been named by KPMG on the international list of "locations to watch" for the next outsourcing boom and designated the most attractive growth pole in Romania. Additionally, Cluj is a long-established university town with the country's largest university, providig a ready source of talented graduates looking for employment opportunities with top companies. With an increasingly diverse cultural life and home for young talent, Cluj was selected as the European Youth Capital in 2015.



CSS Corp's new center will be equipped to deliver diverse, multi-skilled talent across variety of digital, engineering, IT and tech support skills. The center will employ about 50 professionals to start with who will offer multilingual tech support in English, French, German and Italian. This number will be ramped up to 400+ employees over the next two years with the addition of new client portfolios. "We are delighted at strengthening our European delivery capabilities with the launch of our Romania operations at Cluj-Napoca, 'the heart of Transylvania.' The dynamic industry that we operate in requires skills, innovation, adaptability, and creativity, characteristics that define the Romanian people. Cluj will help us scale our European language operations, supplementing our Poland center. It will also provide access to unique capabilities, talent pool and technical skills for our global clients," said Sunil Mittal, CEO, CSS Corp.

"We've steadily grown our European delivery portfolio with our center in Poland and seen great success. The new center in Romania will act as a catalyst for ramping up our capabilities for our growing European and global client base," said Arvind Appavu, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Support, CSS Corp. CSS Corp has existing delivery centers in the USA, Costa Rica, Colombia, Philippines, India, Mauritius, and China. This year also marks 25 years of operations for the company, and it recently crossed the milestone of 10,000 employees. About CSS Corp CSS Corp is a global customer experience and technology services provider, disrupting the industry with a unique intersection of industry-leading proprietary solutions, resilient operations, and innovative business engagement models. The company is a digital transformation partner of choice for its clients, which include the world's top innovators across industries, from mid-market players to large enterprises. Its diverse team of over 10,000 customer-centric thinkers, collaborators, and co-creators across 20 global locations, is passionate about helping clients succeed through intelligent automation-led outcomes. The company has overcome macroeconomic headwinds to become the industry's fastest growing and most awarded company in its revenue range. To know more, please visit https://www.csscorp.com Follow CSS Corp on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1519375/CSS_Corp_Logo.jpg

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[October 26, 2021] M1 Finance Selects the Temenos Banking Cloud to Power its Finance Super App

Temenos (SIX: TEMN), the banking software company, today announced that M1 Finance, the Finance Super App, has selected The Temenos Banking Cloud. With Temenos, and through collaboration with a third-party bank, M1 will broaden its suite of financial services to include banking, starting with deposits and payments and eventually expanding into lending. M1's mission is to empower financial well-being by creating one of the world's best platforms for long-term money management. The company has created a suite of financial tools enabling clients to Invest, Borrow and Spend. M1 takes the complexity out of investing, making wealth creation easy while promoting healthy financial habits. In July 2021, M1 completed a round of Series E funding that propelled it to unicorn status with a valuation of $1.45 billion. Economic uncertainty in the face of the global pandemic has led to an increased appetite to build wealth, with ~20% of market activity now coming from retail investors.1 Over the past year and a half, M1 has more than doubled its client base and quintupled its assets under management to $5 billion. For its next stage of growth, M1 is seeking to redefine financial services and move into the banking industry through collaborative efforts. To do this, it needed a cloud platform that could connect to M1's front-end, scale massively, and move quickly as M1's strategy evolves. Temenos' open cloud banking platform will serve as the foundation for M1 to launch banking services, while creating hyper-efficient cost structures. Using Temenos Model Bank methodoogy and the pre-configurations for Temenos Transact and Payments, M1 will be able to quickly roll out new products and features. The increased efficiency, agility, and flexibility will enable M1 to deliver seamless, outstanding client experiences.



Brian Barnes, Founder & CEO, M1 Finance, said: "We believe that our clients should have total choice, control and transparency over how they achieve their personal and financial goals. We are passionate about helping people from all walks of life to grow their wealth and build their financial future. To fulfill this promise, we need technology that is fast, open, and scalable as we continue to grow our products and client base. This partnership will help us build a stronger, faster, more secure technology stack that makes our clients' experience on M1 even better. Temenos' open cloud banking platform will enable us to support massive growth and make wealth creation accessible to every American." Jacqueline White, President - Americas, Temenos, said: "At Temenos, we have a vision to power a world of banking that opens up opportunities for be people to achieve their ambitions. We are delighted that M1 will use the Temenos Banking Cloud to deliver on its mission to help its clients take control of their financial future and build their wealth. Temenos' open cloud technology will pave the way for innovation, empowering M1 to create collaborative products that challenge how we think of banking, delivering a seamless experience and banking services that work for its clients wherever they are in their journey."

- Ends - About Temenos Temenos AG (SIX: TEMN) is the world's leader in banking software. Over 3,000 banks across the globe, including 41 of the top 50 banks, rely on Temenos to process both the daily transactions and client interactions of more than 1.2 billion banking customers. Temenos offers cloud-native, cloud-agnostic and AI-driven front office, core banking, payments and fund administration software enabling banks to deliver frictionless, omnichannel customer experiences and gain operational excellence. Temenos software is proven to enable its top-performing clients to achieve cost-income ratios of 26.8% half the industry average and returns on equity of 29%, three times the industry average. These clients also invest 51% of their IT budget on growth and innovation versus maintenance, which is double the industry average, proving the banks' IT investment is adding tangible value to their business. For more information, please visit www.temenos.com. 1 Recent trends in retail investing: What does it mean for issuers? | IR Magazine View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211025005500/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Aqara Releases USB-Powered Hub E1

Aqara, a leading provider of smart home products, announced the launch of the Aqara Hub E1, which is a USB-powered Zigbee 3.0 smart home hub. Hub E1 is Aqara's smallest hub so far, and it serves as the control center for a wide range of the classic and the latest Aqara accessories, connecting up 128 child devices*. The new hub is available on the Aqara Amazon brand stores in the US, Canada, the UK and France. It will also be made available via authorized Aqara retailers in North America, Europe and Asia in the following weeks**.



The Aqara Hub E1 features a compact design and high installation flexibility. With a size of 4.25? X 1.18? X 0.3? and a weight of merely 58 grams, the new hub is not much bigger than an average USB flash drive. A regular USB-A port is integrated into the hub's housing, hence the new hub could be powered from almost any USB-equipped devices, for example wall outlets, power strips, PCs, power banks and even Wi-Fi routers. Combined with the 210 adjustable shaft angle, the E1 hub could be placed flexibly. The E1 hub also offers all-round compatibility, and it exposes the connected Aqara child devices to a majority of popular ecosystems and voice assistants, such as HomeKit, Alexa, Google (News - Alert) Home, IFTTT, Alice, and Marusya. Moreover, the Hub E1 could act as a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi repeater***, so that users could enjoy a better experience with an optimized Wi-Fi network.

All 4 native HomeKit alarm modes are supported by the E1 hub. Once configured, users will receive mobile phone notifications when there is a risk to home security, for example when human motion is detected unexpectedly, or when the door/window is opened unexpectedly. For users deploying different Aqara hubs within the same network, sirens for other Aqara hubs will also be triggered in such cases. To celebrate the launch, Aqara now offers a 10% discount for the new Hub E1 on its Amazon brand stores, with the promo code USCAE1E1 in the US and Canada, and the promo code HUBE1EUUK in the UK and France. The offering will be valid through October 28, 2021. For more details of the E1 hub, please visit our website. * To connect up to 128 devices, Zigbee routers/repeaters such as Smart Wall Switch (With Neutral) and Smart Plug are required. ** Product availability may vary among different retail channels, and could be updated all the time. It's recommended to check with the regional retailer(s) for realtime availability. *** Wi-Fi repeater function supports up to 2 Wi-Fi devices. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005013/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Fantom Developer Conference Kicks Off In Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Tickets to FantomDC sold out quickly, and in addition to the 250 in-person attendees (total attendance was capped due to the global pandemic), hundreds are expected to attend virtually. Prominent speakers include Andre Cronje (Fantom core developer and creator of Yearn), Michael Kong (CEO of Fantom), Harry Yeh (Managing Director of Quantum Fintech), Roger Ver (founder of Bitcoin.com), and more.

FantomDC has star backing as well. The event was organized by Keynote Limited, the team behind the North American Bitcoin Conference and the World Blockchain Forum. Notable sponsors and partners include the household names Binance and Red Bull, institutional heavyweights like Protocol Ventures and the Quantum Fintech Group, anda range of projects involved in the booming Fantom ecosystem, including Tomb Finance, SpookySwap, SpiritSwap, Popsicle Finance, Overdrive, ZooCoin, and AnySwap.





Fantom has enjoyed a particularly eventful 2021: total value locked on the Fantom network has soared to $5B, and development on the ecosystem has exploded. Moreover, the Fantom Foundation has passed key milestones on its roadmap, including a major protocol update and launch of the Arton NFT marketplace. The conference opens as the Fantom token hits an all-time high in price, currently $3.20.

As Fantoms growth sees the token move well into the top 30 cryptocurrencies by market cap, many believe that a revolution is underway in which nimble, future-tech blockchains shed the title of alt-coin to join Bitcoin and Ethereum as major industry players. With its 1-second transaction finality, low transaction fees, and green/eco-friendly infrastructure, Fantom leads the way for these next-generation decentralized platforms. Focusing on addressing developers of all levels, FantomDC reflects the ethos of the Fantom team that has gone from strength to strength this year through a focus on delivering real-world applications rather than hype. The event promises to be both generative and dynamic and is worth keeping an eye on for signals for whats next for Fantom.

Media Contact:

Simone Pomposi

Fantom Foundation

[email protected]

https://fantom.foundation







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[October 26, 2021] Thames Estuary Growth Board Launches Hydrogen Route Map and Set to Support 9,000 Local Jobs and Generate 3.8bn GVA

LONDON, Oct. 26, 2021 /CNW/ -- "We are proud and excited to launch The Thames Estuary Hydrogen Route Map. Through our Green Blue vision, our objective is to unlock 190bn of national growth potential by capitalising upon the unique built and natural assets of the Thames Estuary. The Growth Board works tirelessly to identify and catalyse new opportunities to create the cleanest and greenest river-side region anywhere on the planet. Over the past six months, we have looked across the Estuary to understand the needs and opportunities and articulate the scope for a hydrogen ecosystem which is compelling and capable of attracting multi-billion-pound investment. A hydrogen ecosystem in the Estuary will have far-reaching, positive implications not only for the region, but for the UK as a whole."  Kate Willard OBE, Estuary Envoy and Chair of the Thames Estuary Growth Board Today, The Thames Estuary Growth Board is launching The Thames Estuary Hydrogen Route Map. This significant step forward in hydrogen energy in the UK will keep the nation on track to net zero, support 9,000 jobs and deliver 3.8bn GVA to the UK economy by 2035. The Hydrogen Route Map identifies where demand, supply, distribution and storage opportunities exist; outlines requirements of the investment market and pinpoints investment clusters; establishes a broad set of relationships with key stakeholders; and highlights the competitive advantage of locating a hydrogen ecosystem in the Estuary. Nationally, this will keep the UK on target to net zero by reducing carbon emissions by up to 5.9 million tons annually. Ahead of COP26, the Thames Estuary is ready to play its part in international efforts to research, produce and use clean energy. The Estuary's position next to the capital and stretching out to the North Sea means it is uniquely placed to deliver a hydrogen ecosystem. The region has a wide range of potential end users across a number of industries, such as high heat industrial, transport (road, rail, air and river), data, and heating, with each starting to develop plans for their journey towards zero carbon. Additionally, major infrastructure projects such as the Lower Thames Crossing offer an opportunity to demonstrate fossil fuel-free alternatives for construction. Crucially, in terms of storage, local demand for carbon dioxide presents an opportunity for r-use. Lastly, the Thames is also the largest port cluster in the UK, supported by a significant fleet of back-to-base logistics operations situated in multiple port locations.



Across the Thames Estuary region, developments in hydrogen will unlock substantial benefits for people and local economies, attracting more than 2.2billion of investment, and supporting its levelling up through job creation. The transition away from fossil fuels will help address issues of poor air quality and improve health and wellbeing. The benefits of hydrogen are abundant. Hydrogen is a clean, renewable energy source in bountiful supply, with numerous sources to produce locally and a sustainable production system. It's non-toxic and far more efficient than other sources of energy. Hydrogen can be a key enabler of decarbonisation across the heat and transport sectors, as well as energy-intensive industries such as chemicals, oil refineries and power.

The Thames Estuary Growth Board commissioned Ikigai and DNV to develop this Hydrogen Route Map following the Thames Estuary Hydrogen Summit in November 2020 attended by leaders and experts from industry, academia, transport and energy, which revealed a clear appetite and demand for hydrogen in the region. This week, the Thames Estuary will be calling on Government to back our Route Map in the Comprehensive Spending Review by providing source funding to kick off our Living Labs concept. The UK Government is committed to delivering hydrogen at scale and plans to work with industry to achieve 5GW of low carbon hydrogen production capacity in the UK by 2030. The Thames Estuary has the capability to power this ambition and support the Government in becoming a global player in hydrogen energy, owing to its natural and economic geography, and position as a strategic investment partner. The Thames Estuary Growth Board is a strategic investment partner to Government and by commissioning bankable investment plans like the Hydrogen Route Map, this supports the levelling up agenda and national recovery from Covid. This is a compelling opportunity for investors to become part of the most amazing hydrogen project anywhere on the planet. For more hydrogen news visit our website. Please contact [email protected] / +44(0)7588 123 160 for further information. Notes to the Editors The Thames Estuary is the UK's biggest growth opportunity, with the potential to add 190bn GVA and create 1.3m jobs. Kate Willard OBE was appointed by the Government to lead a dedicated Thames Estuary Growth Board. The Board set out its vision in July 2020, entitled 'The Green Blue', to realise the amazing potential of the Thames Estuary. It is called 'The Green Blue' because the Board aims to create good, green growth using the blue waterway of the Thames. One year on, in July 2021, the Board launched the 'Green Blue Workplan', outlining what the Board will do to deliver the 'Green Blue' vision, mapping out focus areas for development in the region and key performance indicators. The Board's priorities include building an Estuary-wide hydrogen ecosystem to turbo-charge the Government's hydrogen and net zero ambitions; utilise the Thames Freeport to attract inward investment, boost the national economy, and unlock green initiatives; invest in transport infrastructure developments, as well as utilising the river for both freight and passengers to ease congestion and reduce pollution on the region's roads. For more information on the Thames Estuary and to read The Green Blue Action Plan and Workplan in full, please visit the Thames Estuary website: www.thamesestuary.org.uk. We're in a good place. Join us. View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/thames-estuary-growth-board-launches-hydrogen-route-map-and-set-to-support-9-000-local-jobs-and-generate-3-8bn-gva-301407063.html SOURCE Thames Estuary

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[October 26, 2021] Novel Open Banking Payment Solution from kevin. Wins Investment from Global PayTech Ventures

Lithuanian fintech startup kevin. allows merchants to process account-to-account (A2A) payments at checkout. MIAMI, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Founded in 2018 and based in Vilnius, kevin. offers PSD2 technology that enables merchants to accept payments directly from bank accounts. "We're excited about kevin. because their API can do what others have only been able to mockup. kevin. is way ahead of everyone else  their system has real transactions, servicing and targeting real verticals and they have proven they can do it," said Javier Perez, Managing Partner of Global PayTech Ventures and ex Mastercard President. kevin.'s API is a PSD2 payment solution for both merchants and consumers. "In Europe, up to 80% of all online payments are made by debit card. And behind every debit card there's an account, which means these payments could be made directly from (bank) accounts," said Pavel Sokolovas, co-founder and COO of kevin. PSD2 is the EU's open banking regulation, designed to protect consumers when they pay online and promote the development and use of innovative online and mobile payments. PSD2 payments still require several authentication step, so it works well for e-commerce, but hasn't yet been efficient for services like parking, deliveries or transit, where consumers typically use a credit card. With kevin.'s technology, consumers can now make payments for these services in the same convenient way as cards.



How it works

Customers link their account to a service provider's app once and afterwards there is no need for authentication for every transaction. kevin.'s API manages this process through its secure, licensed infrastructure, which operates in the background. The end user experience is similar to using a payment card. Why it's important

Significant cost savings  Bank account payments are cheaper for merchants, and ultimately consumers.

UX as efficient as credit cards  By removing the need for authentication with every transaction, the user experience is faster, smoother and more convenient. "Requiring authentication every time a customer makes a 2 parking payment is not competitive, so service providers stick to cards, but there's a downside. With a typical flat charge per payment of 0.10, plus an additional charge of around 1%, companies providing low-priced services like parking can end up paying up to 10% to card networks per payment," said Tadas Tamosiunas, co-founder and CEO at kevin. "kevin. lets users and merchants treat bank accounts like cards. Our new solution enables seamless, instant transactions that don't need to be authorised every time a service, like getting a ride on a ride-hailing app, is ordered." Who is using it

The biggest parking operator in the Baltics, Unipark, has been one of the first companies to integrate kevin. in its app. On average, Unipark pays 80% less for acquiring services per transaction than with a card network. After launch in December 2020, today 40% of Unipark customers decide to link bank account instead card linking. Who else has invested

kevin. has raised $10M in seed funding from a number of European investors including OTB Ventures, Speedinvest, Open Ocean and high net worth individuals including AmRest founder Henry McGovern. This funding will enable kevin. to bring its solution to new sectors and markets in Europe. Where it's offered

kevin.'s services are currently available in 15 European countries, including Sweden, Finland, Poland, Spain, Netherlands, Baltics and Portugal, where the company has a coverage of more than 85% of bank customers. The firm's services will be available in 21 European Economic Area (EEA) countries by the end of 2021, and in 28 EEA countries by mid-2022. The startup was named best fintech in the Baltics in the Mastercard Lighthouse programme. kevin. has a team of more than 100 employees in seven countries and it plans to expand its workforce to beyond 350 employees in 2022. Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1428944/Global_PayTech_Ventures_Logo.jpg

Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1667280/kevin_Logo.jpg

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[October 26, 2021] Tecore Networks Unveils Groundbreaking - Smart DAS Platform - sDAS

Tecore (News - Alert) Networks, today unveiled its sDAS (smart Distributed Antenna System) platform. As 5G networks are quickly replacing legacy wireless technologies users are demanding superior indoor coverage, higher throughput, improved performance, and a better user experience. DAS solutions continue to be best suited to meet these demands; however, they are complicated, expensive, and usually limited to very large commercial venues or corporate campuses. As with any technology, the future is in the evolution of the standard and the ability to adapt superior coverage technology to be available to more users. Tecore's smart DAS architecture provides a highly flexible, cost-effective, optimized platform capable of evolving with commercial wireless technologies. This NexGen sDAS architecture was specifically designed to eliminate the need for any carrier radio source equipment, removing associated equipment costs and minimizing the head-end equipment footprint. For operators with pre-existing radio equipment, the sDAS is able to accommodate a hybrid operating mode allowing for simultaneous use of onboard multi-RAT capabilities while supporting legacy analog inputs via the mPOI (mulit-RAT Point of Interface). The mPOI is able to take in external radio signal sources for distribution with other concurrently operating digital base-band signals allowing operators to selectively utilize local and external radio resources. The sDAS platform delivers a flexible solution for any type of venue by covering 14 licensed radio frequency bands with a single pair of smart radios based on the mRU (multi-RAT Radio Unit). The mRU smart radio supports the following features: One Low-Band Radio supports seven (7) LTE (News - Alert)/NR bands (2/25, 4/10/66, 30, 41)

One Mid-Band Radio supports seven (7) LTE/NR bands (5/26, 12/17, 13/14, 71)

Operates four (4) bands concurrently at 20 Watts of RF power per band

Support for All-Gs (GSM, UMTS, LTE, NR)

NMS tailored for Neutral Host and BYOC

Support for joint operator DAS power sharing

Daisy-chaining for simplified installation

Integrated BBU with S1/N2 Interface to Core

Compact form factor (14.5"x14.5"x4.5")

DL/UL arrier Aggregation

Outdoor Rated - IP67

AC Powered



News - Alert) costs," said Jay Salkini - President and CEO of Tecore Networks. The sDAS is designed to reduce complexity by facilitating the evolution of current DAS architecture and minimizing headend room equipment by up to 90%. The sDAS is comprised of 3 components: mDU (multi-RAT Digital Unit), mPOI and mRU. The mDU is 1U x86 element located at the headend, which can be interfaced directly to the Carrier's core network via a 3GPP S1/N2 interface. The mPOI is an optional 1U element that is only needed if Carrier's analog source is being utilized. With this reduction in rack space requirements to house headend components and minimized power and HVAC requirements, the sDAS drastically decreases OPEX costs, and significantly expediates installation time, as carriers can now connect the mDU directly over an S1/N2 interface over IP to their Core without needing to wait to run fiber to the signal source, making this solution simple, flexible, easy, and much faster to deploy.

The mDU digitally generates the required radio signals in the required bands and sends it to the mRU, where each Carriers' signal is then broadcast independently in each frequency band. With the added ability to daisy-chain the mRU's, fiber runs to the headend are a thing of the past. The sDAS is suitable for single-carrier, multi-carrier or neutral-host providers and can seamlessly add carriers to the same mDU without any change in the headend footprint. Furthermore, a single mDU can support 1,000 simultaneous active users. The sDAS technology can scale as needed to provide coverage for thousands of more users. Tecore Networks is ready to assist you and your customers in the realization of the benefits of this NextGen (News - Alert) smart DAS architecture; providing a reliable, future-proof, adaptable wireless infrastructure solution customizable to meet any deployment scenario. Please click here for additional information. Additionally, Tecore Representatives are available to meet at Mobile World Congress Los Angeles (Booth #1825) from October 26-28, 2021. Please click here to book your appointment with our Team. About Tecore Networks Since 1991, Tecore has been committed to providing innovative, reliable, and scalable wireless infrastructure solutions. It is a trusted provider to the commercial, government, and military markets with an established track record of solid performance and evolution driven by its patented software-defined approach. The effectiveness of Tecore's architecture and solution designs has allowed Tecore's product lines to evolve seamlessly across all evolutions of wireless technology covering 2G, 3G, 4G, and 5G. Tecore's solutions include the core and radio access network infrastructure, supported by its state-of-the-art professional services. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005414/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Hobart and William Smith Colleges Rely on SecureAuth Adaptive Authentication to Protect Its Employees, Students and Research

SecureAuth, an identity security leader, and Hobart and William Smith Colleges (HWS), a leading liberal arts and sciences institution, announce their continued committed partnership to secure the research data, employees and students. The Hobart and William Smith Colleges IT security and infrastructure team started a gradual move of critical college applications from their traditional on-prem locations into the cloud. This transition increased HWS' focus on user identities, creating a new challenge for the IT security and infrastructure team. The expansion of user access, along with the heightened threat of data breaches and ransomware, required different authentication methods to increase the overall security posture of user identities. The team knew they needed a flexible, federated solution that would scale, helping them address the evolving security demands. Through the discovery process, the IT security team honed-in on multi-factor authentication (MFA) to be the default login standard, and selected SecureAuth Identity Platform to consolidate and future-proof their authentication process. "What we liked about SecureAuth is that we could get federation, self-service password management and multi-factor authentication in one product as well as have the ability to go to one source for support," said Derek Lustig, Director of Infrastructure and Security Services at Hobart and William Smith Colleges. "SecureAuth collaborated with us to deliver a flexible MFA (News - Alert) for our RADIUS endpoints, SAML nd OpenID apps, combined with SSO and user self-service while still working well with WS-Fed and WS-Trust - a key differentiator for us," said Jason Shomper, Infrastructure and Identity Architect at HWS.



HWS required multiple MFA options as demand for mobile access rose and more applications were transitioning to the cloud. Initial user hesitancy to MFA required a solution flexible enough to tailor the authentication journey to provide friction only for high-risk login attempts. In addition, SecureAuth partnered with HWS to develop a custom PeopleSoft Authenticator, which saved time and reduced much of the complexity. "Their robust roll out and transition to MFA resulted in a successful implementation that led to 100 percent end user adoption across their more than 2,000 undergraduate students, staff, and faculty," said Matt Ulery, Chief Product Officer at SecureAuth. "We are partnering with Hobart and William Smith Colleges as they look toward secure passwordless user journeys."

"As a matter of fact, we put in place always-on MFA for our systems that house sensitive or restricted data. We are on this journey of migrating and better protecting applications and resources. SecureAuth continues to give us options and the ability to fine-tune our approach to authentication, depending upon the system that it is protecting and the audience that is using it," said Lustig. About Hobart and William Smith Colleges Founded as Hobart College in 1822 and William Smith College in 1908, today's Hobart and William Smith Colleges share a proud and storied legacy that spans nearly 200 years of leadership and impact - including alumna Dr. Elizabeth Blackwell, who, in 1849, became the first American woman to receive a medical degree from Hobart's precursor, Geneva Medical College. The Colleges are a future-focused liberal arts and sciences institution led by a faculty of accessible teacher/scholars known for the impact of their research and distinguished by the depth of their mentorship. About SecureAuth Corporation SecureAuth is an identity security company that enables the most secure and flexible authentication experience for employees, partners and customers. Delivered as a service and deployed across cloud, hybrid and on-premises environments, SecureAuth manages and protects access to applications, systems and data at scale, anywhere in the world. To find out more, please visit www.secureauth.com. Follow SecureAuth via:

LinkedIn (News - Alert): https://www.linkedin.com/company/secureauth-corporation

Twitter (News - Alert): https://twitter.com/SecureAuth

Facebook (News - Alert): https://www.facebook.com/SecureAuth/

Blog: https://www.secureauth.com/blog/ View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005275/en/

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[October 26, 2021] RAIR TECH Debuts its First Secure NFT for Blockchain Investor Conference CoinAgenda Global

LAS VEGAS, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (via Blockchain Wire)  RAIR TECH, (https://rair.tech/), a digital rights management platform for powering the NFT marketplace, today announced its first NFT collaboration with CoinAgenda (www.coinagenda.com), the premier global conference series connecting blockchain and cryptocurrency investors with startups since 2014. RAIR TECH provided its digital ownership encryption technology to, for the first time, issue digital access through NFTs for CoinAgenda Global in Las Vegas, CoinAgenda Europe in Monaco and CoinAgenda Middle East and Africa in Dubai. The NFTs feature a unique digital art image paying tribute to each conference location allowing the owner to unlock exclusive access to replays of recorded conference content from the three-day event. As more events balance in-person and virtual attendance, this collaboration highlights how instrumental NFTs can be for the future of digital rights management of events before, during and after theyve taken place. Weve all been enthralled with the explosive success of the NFT market and RAIR TECH aims to truly harness that power by tackling the most important piece  ownership and rights management, said Ed Prado, CEO of RAIR TECH. In order for NFTs to sustain growth, we must explore more viable use cases and this partnership with CoinAgenda showcases how NFTs can be useful for post-conference milestone collectibles and exclusive content. RAIR TECH is a blockchain-based digital rights management platform that uses NFTs to gate access to streaming content. RAIR TECHS decentralized key management node system empowers anyone to create unique, controllable, and transferable digital assets tied to the actual underlying content. RAIR TECH allows users to distribute content with programmatic logic they can customize in a smart contract and monetize through royalty streams they control, enabling creators to self-manage their ownership rights. Although were seeing more evens use NFT ticketing, its been very black and white, said Michael Terpin, Founder of CoinAgenda. Were using NFTs with Beeple-like technology that are visually unique. RAIRs NFTs also allow CoinAgenda attendees and secondary market purchasers to have exclusive playback of the entire conference, which wont be available anywhere else.



CoinAgenda Europe was the ideal kick-off event to showcase RAIR TECHS technology as the event focused on the future of cryptocurrency, NFTs, blockchain and quantum technologies, decentralized finance (DeFi), fintech, privacy, scaling solutions, token economics, payment and infrastructure platforms, Web 3.0, and legal and regulatory issues in blockchain investing. Since 2014, CoinAgenda has been the go-toevent to break new blockchain technology and highlight innovative projects, said Erika Zapanta, Global Events Director of CoinAgenda. We are excited to have NFTs as goodie bags this year and enjoyed working with RAIR TECH to showcase how utility, monetization and rights management will define the future of the NFT space.

For more information on CoinAgendas next events, visit https://coinagenda.com/. For more information on RAIR TECH, visit https://rair.tech/. ABOUT RAIR TECH RAIR TECH (https://rair.tech/) is a blockchain-based digital rights management platform that provides universal middleware encryption to enable digital scarcity. RAIR powers direct content sharing and redistribution of any type of media, making it easy for creators to connect with their audiences and sell materials in a way that is secure, trackable, and profitable. RAIR uses a decentralized key management node system to allow anyone to create transferable digital assets that are tied to the actual underlying content. With RAIR, creators can turn any type of media into an encrypted, access-controlled file that is accessible on any type of browser, making any digital file scarce and therefore valuable. This ensures that all content is attributed to its creator, introducing a system where people can be fairly compensated for their work. MEDIA CONTACT: Transform Group, [email protected] ABOUT COINAGENDA Now in its eighth year, CoinAgenda is the leading global conference series connecting professional investors, traders, family offices and digital currency funds with top entrepreneurs in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors. CoinAgenda Global focuses on international blockchain investing trends, with world-class speakers from around the globe, plus a special focus on blockchain economic development, friendly jurisdictions, the rise of security tokens, enterprise applications, and changes in digital currency funding vehicles and digital currency exchanges. CoinAgenda is an experience that allows all attendees to meet, mingle, and get to know the leading thought leaders, entrepreneurs and investors in the sector, including memorable parties at unique locations. Related Links http://www.coinagenda.com https://coinagenda.com/europe-2021



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[October 26, 2021] Think Systems, Inc. Earns CMMI Maturity Level 2

Think Systems Inc., a privately owned national management consulting firm providing mid-market companies and state/federal public entities with organizational solutions and strategic hiring, announced today that the company has achieved Level 2 of CMMI Institute's Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) for management consulting services as appraised by The Process Company (TPC). This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005067/en/ "Attaining CMMI Maturity Level 2 is a major accomplishment that sets us apart from our competition," said Bryan Wolbert, President of Government Services at Think. "Think is an organization of individuals with a passion for being the best they can be for their customers, which drives a culture of operational excellence as the company continues to grow." CMMI is a capability improvement framework that provides organizations with essential elements of effective processes that ultimately improve their performance. Think's appraisal at Level 2 demonstrates commitment to process improvement and indicates projects have ensured that processes are planned and executed in accordance with policy; the projects employ skilled people who have adequate resources to produce controlled outputs; involve relevant stakeholders; are monitored, controlled, and reviewed; and are evaluated for adherence to their process descriptions. Dan Kuffer, Senior Vice President of Shared Services at Think says that "This rating assures our customers that Tink has achieved a high level of excellence in managing our engagements and delivering value. The appraisal process involved documenting and improving on many of the things that have made Think successful, and the results will enable the continued growth of both our Government Services and Commercial divisions."



The CMMI credential is required by the majority of U.S. defense and other government agencies to ensure the highest standards for IT and software development. Over the years, CMMI maturity models have expanded to help organizations across all industries assess the quality of their current level of capability and performance and offer a guide to optimize business results. The model places businesses on maturity levels ranked from two through five. About Think Systems Inc.

Founded in 2004, Think is a national technology and operations management consulting practice, providing services to medium and large mid-market commercial customers as well as state/federal public customers. Think's offering spans services from technology and operations executive advisory and strategic development, technology and operations transformation, post-merger integration, venture and PE shared services support for portfolio companies, and strategic hiring support services for c-level and upper-level technical and operations management. Think serves a broad client base in industries including financial services, education, manufacturing and distribution, software development, legal and regulatory, business intelligence, and insurance, among others. To learn more visit us at thinkconsulting.com. Think has grown an average for 44% per year over the last three years and currently employees nearly 100 consultants and professionals across the United States. Headquartered in Baltimore, Maryland, the company has expanded along the East Coast opening an office in 2020 in Bocca Raton, Florida. Despite the pandemic, Think made a strategic acquisition in September 2020, purchasing Ventrue, LLC, a Naples, Florida, consulting and shared services practice. About CMMI Institute CMMI Institute is the global leader in the advancement of best practices in people, process, and technology. CMMI Institute's promise is to inspire cultures of continuous improvement that elevate performance and create sustainable competitive advantage. CMMI Institute offers market-drive solutions that provide insights for baselining and optimizing key organizational capabilities, cybermaturity, and data assets to elevate business performance. For over 25 years, thousands of high-performing organizations in a variety of industries, including aerospace, finance, healthcare, information technology, software, defense, transportation, and telecommunications, have achieved sustainable business success through adopting the CMMI and proved they are capable business partners and suppliers. To learn more about how CMMI can help your organizations elevate performance, visit CMMIinstitute.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005067/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Tal Zaks Joins Strategic Advisory Board at Deep Genomics

Deep Genomics, the leading AI therapeutics company, welcomes Tal Zaks, MD, PhD, to its Strategic Advisory Board, effective today. Deep Genomics uses AI and machine learning to program and prioritize transformational nucleotide-based therapeutics for genetic diseases. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005116/en/ Tal Zaks, MD, PhD, Strategic Advisor at Deep Genomics (Photo: Business Wire) As Chief Medical Officer at Moderna, Zaks successfully led a team that pioneered the field of mRNA therapeutics and drove extraordinary growth, with more than two dozen preclinical and clinical programs advanced during his tenure, including Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine. "Tal's experience and capabilities are exceptionally well-matched to our mission to build a world leading programmable medicines company," says Brendan Frey, PhD, FRSC, Founder and CEO of Deep Genomics. "Our unique AI Workbench combines world-class expertise in AI and RNA biology and enables the discovery of novel targets and therapies that cannot be found using the traditional approach to drug discovery." Deep Genomics has validated the proficiency of its AI Workbench by advancing a lead cohort of ten programs into preclinical research and expects to nominate twenty more in the next three years. "By applying its innovative AI platform to create oligonucleotides as 'programmable medicines,' Deep Genomics has demonstrated remarkable productivity in advancing a broad pipeline of preclinical programs," says Zaks. "AI and deep learning are clearly becoming substantial differentiators in the biotech industry, and I expect that many if not most of tomorrow's successful drug discoveries will be powered by AI. I'm excited to work with Deep Genomics as it leads us into that future." Having recently closed a $180 million Series-C funding round, Deep Genomics is rapidly expanding its preclinical pipeline by leveraging its AI Workbench for 'programmable medcines' to target thirty AI-discovered programs by 2024. Other highlights include:



Advancing four AI-discovered programs to the clinic while further growing clinical development capabilities

Expanding the AI Workbench from rare, monogenic conditions to more complex, common diseases

Generating a large-scale set of opportunities by evaluating one hundred genes to identify novel targets, mechanisms, and preclinical programs that could not be found without AI

Hiring more than one hundred highly specialized professionals in Toronto and Cambridge, MA to support these growth targets, including AI researchers, bioinformaticians, software engineers, geneticists, biologists, and clinical and nonclinical drug development experts "The talent we are amassing across the organization from the bench to the leadership to our strategic and scientific advisory boards is providing us with the expertise and experience to fully exploit the broad application of our AI Workbench," says Frey. The strategic advisory board of Deep Genomics includes Jennifer Cook of BridgeBio, Denali Therapeutics and Jazz Pharmaceuticals, and Steve Jurvetson of SpaceX (News - Alert) and Tesla. Tal's unique mRNA company-building expertise is highly complementary to our team." About Tal Zaks, MD, PhD

Tal Zaks is Strategic Advisor at Deep Genomics, with a focus on growing the company to take advantage of the many targets, mechanisms and molecules generated by their 'programmable medicines' platform. Tal also serves on the Board of Directors of Adaptimmune Therapeutics and Teva Pharmaceutical Industries. As Chief Medical Officer at Moderna, Zaks successfully led a team that pioneered the clinical applications of mRNA vaccines and therapeutics with more than two dozen preclinical and clinical programs advanced during his tenure, including Moderna's COVID-19 vaccine. Prior to his time at Moderna, Tal was Senior Vice President and Head of Global Oncology at Sanofi, where he was responsible for all aspects of oncology drug discovery, development, and commercialization. He began his industry career at GlaxoSmithKline in the genetics research group, where he built the oncology translational medicine team and led translational research on TYKERB?. In addition to his industry work, he is Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and has served as a volunteer physician at the Philadelphia Veterans Administration Medical Center, treating patients with genitourinary cancers. Tal received his MD and PhD from the Ben Gurion University in Israel and conducted post-doctoral research at the U.S. National Institutes of Health. He completed his clinical training in internal medicine at Temple University Hospital, followed by a fellowship in medical oncology at the University of Pennsylvania. About Deep Genomics Deep Genomics combines artificial intelligence (AI) and RNA biology to program and prioritize transformational AI-enabled therapies for almost any gene in any genetic condition. The proprietary platform, called the AI Workbench, allows Deep Genomics to decode vast amounts of data on RNA biology, identify novel targets for genetic diseases, and produce therapeutic programs with a high success rate. Almost everyone will suffer from a genetic condition at some point in their life, and Deep Genomics aims to be there for them with a genetically precise therapy. Deep Genomics is located in Toronto, Ontario, and Cambridge, Massachusetts. For more information, visit www.deepgenomics.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005116/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Devo Announces $250 Million Funding Round Led by TCV

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Devo Technology , the cloud-native logging and security analytics company, today announced $250 million in Series E funding at a valuation of $1.5 billion. TCV led the round, along with new investors General Atlantic and Eurazeo and existing investors Insight Partners , Georgian , Bessemer Venture Partners , and Kibo Ventures . The round brings the total capital raised to more than $400 million. The new funding will fuel aggressive growth across new regions and market verticals, and significantly increase investment in channel expansion and product innovation.

A recent report from Devo revealed the speed at which businesses have accelerated past the cloud tipping pointwith cloud-first organizations now outnumbering on-premise organizations by a ratio of three-to-one. Devo is serving as the only credible go to in the cloud for large customers needing sophisticated security analytics and enterprise logging at scale.



Digital transformation, and the massive threat surface associated with it, have elevated security analytics to the centerpiece of frontline cyber defenses, said Devo CEO, Marc van Zadelhoff. Pedro Castillo and our founders built Devo for this transformation, and now the worlds largest businesses choose us because we combine unmatched scale, powerful analytics, and the ability to get answers in real timefundamentally changing how security teams interact with their data. This new funding validates the disruptive force we have become and sends a signal to the industry that we will continue to set the pace for innovation and customer value. Devos expansion plans include growth in new verticals and geographies including an expanded presence in the public sector, as well as internationally in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Building on the rapid adoption of Devo as the platform of choice for leading resellers and managed security services providers (MSSPs) across the globe, the company is also redoubling its commitment to the channel, cloud and integration partners. Devo will also invest heavily in technology alliances, content, and people to build out a global security community to usher in a new era for the industry.

Gopi Vaddi, General Partner at TCV, who is joining the Devo Board of Directors said, Were thrilled to invest behind Devos visionary founders who have built a category-disrupting product suite, in addition to Marc van Zadelhoff who joined as CEO last year and has commercialized the company further by recruiting a seasoned team of executives. We look forward to working with existing investors Insight, Georgian, Bessemer, and Kibo Ventures, who have guided the company to its current stage, as well as new investors General Atlantic and Eurazeo. Also joining the board is Gary Reiner, Operating Partner at General Atlantic. The funding event also marks what has been a momentous first year in the tenure of CEO Marc van Zadelhoff. Since assuming leadership, he has driven the company to new heights, including: Nearly 100% year-over-year revenue growth

Over 100% customer growth, including H&R Block, Manulife, FanDuel, Ulta Beauty and AMEX Global Business Travel

More than 400 employees across North America, Europe, and APAC

Addition of industry-proven leaders including CSO Gunter Ollmann, SVP of Product Ted Julian, CCO Johannes Loeffler and CFO Jennifer Grunebaum

Launch of Devo Content Stream , a new high-value content delivery service for Devo customers

About Devo

Devo is the only cloud-native logging and security analytics platform that releases the full potential of your data to empower bold, confident action. With unrivaled scale to collect all of your data without compromise, speed to give you immediate access and answers, and clarity to focus on the signals that matter most, Devo is your ally in protecting your organization today and tomorrow. Headquartered in Cambridge, Mass., Devo is backed by Insight Partners, Georgian, TCV, General Atlantic, Bessemer Venture Partners, Kibo Ventures and Eurazeo. Learn more at www.devo.com . Devo PR Contact:

Shannon Todesca

[email protected]

+1 (781) 797-0898 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/159a6080-51b6-44be-951f-d4cf3c0127e9





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[October 26, 2021] Shutterstock Introduces New Workflow Applications, Data-Enabled Features and Flexible Subscriptions To Transform The Customer Creative Journey

Shutterstock launches two workflow applications for Enterprise customers, Music Match Tool, and a new eCommerce mixed-asset subscription, FLEX 25, that helps customers discover, plan and collaborate faster in their creative journey NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Shutterstock, Inc. (NYSE: SSTK), a leading global creative platform offering full-service solutions, high-quality content, and applications for brands, businesses and media companies, today announced the launch of two new applications for Enterprise: Catalog and Plan, Music Match Tool, and a new eCommerce mixed-asset subscription, FLEX 25 as part of its Quarterly Product Update. These new product launches represent meaningful progress towards Shutterstock's three strategic pillars: workflow innovation, fresh and relevant content, and data and insights to drive performance. Catalog and Plan applications form the beginnings of Shutterstock's Creative Flow, a suite of applications powered by creative insights designed to enhance creativity, encourage collaboration and allow customers  from small businesses to global enterprise  to create with confidence. The Catalog application allows Enterprise customers to centralize access to content anytime, and anywhere. With Catalog, customers can tag, organize, comment on and approve content together, as well as share content across departments, companies, and time zones. The Plan application is a single content plan and calendar for teams and clients to access, fostering real-time collaboration. Plan enables quick-access to collections of content, keeping teams organized, on the same page, and confident in what they're creating. In addition to workflow applications, Shutterstock continues to invest in making it easier for customers to find the content they need, faster. Enterprise customers searching for music for film and media projects can now access Music Match Tool, an AI-powered search feature that allows customers to find the perfect song based on a song they already know. Searching for music can take hours of interacting with text filters to find the sound a creator imagines. With this new search feature, you can find the right music for every project, in minutes. Shutterstock also announced the launch of a new flexible subscription for eCommerce customers, FLEX 25. Building on the success of FLEX Premium launched in September 2021, and Shutterstock FLEX announced in April 2021, FLEX 25 allows individual creators to source high-quality, affordable imagery, video and music, in one comprehensive subscription. "With this Quarterly Product Update, the introduction of Catalog, Plan, Music Match Tool and FLEX 25 is part of Shutterstock's evolution as a true creative partner that provides more than just content," said Stan Pavlovsky, Chief Executive Officer at Shutterstock. "More than two thirds of Shutterstock's customers use our content for marketing materials, and more than half of our customers utilize our assets for social media and digital advertising. Creating content has never been more important, and we are making significant investments in workflow and insights to make the creative process from start-to-finish accessible, and more impactful." For more information about Shutterstock, visit shutterstock.com . FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 Examples of forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding management's future business, future results of operations or financial condition, including new or planned features, products or services, management strategies, Shutterstock's expectations regarding financial outlook and future growth and profitability and statements regarding anticipated improvements in operations. You can identify forward-looking statements by words such as "may," "will," "would," "should," "could," "expect," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "intend," "plan," "opportunities" and other similar expressions. However, not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Such forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors including risks related to any changes to or the effects on liabilities, financial condition, future capital expenditures, revenue, expenses, net income or loss, synergies and future prospects; our inability to continue to attract and retain customers and contributors to our online marketplace for creative content; competitive factors; our inability to innovate technologically or develop, market and offer new products and services; costs related to litigation or infringement claims, indemnification claims and the inability to prevent misuse of our content; our inability to increase market awareness of Shutterstock and our products and services; our inability to effectively manage our growth; our inability to grow at historic growth rates or at all; technological interruptions that impair access to our websites; assertions by third parties of infringement of intellectual property rights by Shutterstock, our inability to effectively manage risks associated with operating internationally; our exposure to foreign exchange rate risk; our inability to address risks associated with sales to large corporate customers; government regulation of the internet; increasing regulation related to the handling of personal data; actions by governments to restrict access to our products and services; our inability to effectively expand our operations into new products, services and technologies; our inability to protect the confidential information of customers; increased tax liabilities associated with our worldwide operations, including our exposure to withholding, sales and transaction tax liabilities; the effect of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017; public health crises including the COVID-19 pandemic; general economic and political conditions worldwide, including disruption and volatility caused by COVID-19 and any resulting economic recession; our inability to successfully integrate acquisitions and the associated technology and achieve operational efficiencies; and other factors and risks discussed under the caption "Risk Factors" in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K, as well as in other documents that the Company may file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. As a result of such risks, uncertainties and factors, Shutterstock's actual results may differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements discussed in or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made only as of this date and Shutterstock assumes no obligation to update the information included in this press release or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by law.



ABOUT SHUTTERSTOCK Shutterstock, Inc. (NYSE: SSTK), is a leading global creative platform offering full-service solutions, high-quality content, and applications for brands, businesses and media companies. Directly and through its group subsidiaries, Shutterstock's comprehensive collection includes high-quality licensed photographs , vectors , illustrations , videos , 3D models and music . Working with its growing community of over 1.9 million contributors, Shutterstock adds hundreds of thousands of images each week, and currently has more than 390 million images and more than 23 million video clips available.

Headquartered in New York City, Shutterstock has offices around the world and customers in more than 150 countries. The Company also owns PicMonkey, a leading online graphic design and image editing platform ; Offset, a high-end image collection ; Shutterstock Studios, an end-to-end custom creative shop ; PremiumBeat, a curated royalty-free music library; Shutterstock Editorial, a premier source of editorial images and videos for the world's media; TurboSquid, a leading 3D content marketplace ; Amper Music, an AI-driven music platform ; and Bigstock , a value-oriented stock media offering. For more information, please visit www.shutterstock.com and follow Shutterstock on Twitter and on Facebook . Logo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/1075411/shutterstock_Logo.jpg SOURCE Shutterstock, Inc.

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[October 26, 2021] MIT Sloan's Aggregate Confusion Project, an initiative to improve ESG measurement in the financial sector, welcomes four new investment firms as founding members

CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Capital markets and regulators are moving fast to integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors into the investment decision-making process, but struggle with the quality and consistency of ESG data. The MIT Sloan Sustainability Initiative 's Aggregate Confusion Project (ACP) welcomes four new investment firms that will help tackle the ESG measurement challenge, and develop methodologies for more rigorous and reliable ESG integration. To recruit these new founding members, ACP reached out to firms across geographies, and who play different roles in the investment industry. They are MFS Investment Management, AQR Capital Management , Qontigo , and Asset Management One . These firms join Massachusetts Pension Reserves Investment Management (Mass PRIM) Board , the first organization to join the MIT consortium in July 2020. Over the next three years, members of the consortium will work with MIT researchers to improve ESG measurement and implement new techniques.



"Our five founding members of the ACP will serve as valuable thought partners with our research team," says Roberto Rigobon, the Society of Sloan Fellows Professor of Management and Professor of Applied Economics at the MIT Sloan School of Management. "By providing financial support for the project and sharing their experiences with ESG integration, they will be integral to developing a more robust approach to sustainable investing. The challenges they're addressing in using ESG data will help guide our research and the implementation of new ESG measurement techniques we develop together." The five member firms' diverse geographies and roles in the investment landscape will give researchers a range of challenges and opportunities to examine. Mass PRIM manages the assets of the Pension Reserves Investment Trust Fund for Massachusetts public employee pension benefits. MFS Investment Management (MFS) is one of the oldest asset management companies in the world and has been credited with pioneering the mutual fund. AQR Capital Management is a global quantitative investment management firm that works at the nexus of economics, behavioral finance, data and technology, providing alternative and long-only investment strategies. Qontigo is a global solutions provider serving financial products issuers, asset owners and asset managers with its comprehensive range of STOXX and DAX indices alongside Axioma analytics and risk tools. Asset Management One is an asset management firm in Tokyo that helps manage the Japanese Government Pension Investment Fund, the world's largest retirement savings pool.

Building on a research paper by Prof. Rigobon and MIT Sloan Research Fellows Florian Berg titled Aggregate Confusion: The Divergence of ESG Ratings , the ACP has advanced four key goals aimed at establishing more rigorous, coherent methods for ESG integration. They are: Reduce the level of noise in ESG measurement, both in specific categories such as labor treatment, carbon emissions, and product safety, and in aggregated indices;

Disentangle the effect of ESG-driven investment flows on stock price and firm behavior;

Develop smarter ways to aggregate ESG factors into composite indices;

Reliably assess investor preferences to enable ESG indices to be more customized and tuned to investors' values. "We intend for each of these workstreams to be relevant for asset owners and managers, as well as for regulators working to ensure transparency, consistency, and impact of ESG investment," says Prof. Rigobon. While the Aggregate Confusion Project is not accepting any new members at the moment, researchers plan to share their findings with the wider community in the future by hosting symposia and conferences. To learn more about the Aggregate Confusion Project, please visit: https://mitsloan.mit.edu/sustainability/aggregateconfusion For further information, contact:

Patricia Favreau

Associate Director of Media Relations

(617) 253-3492

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/mit-sloans-aggregate-confusion-project-an-initiative-to-improve-esg-measurement-in-the-financial-sector-welcomes-four-new-investment-firms-as-founding-members-301408334.html SOURCE MIT Sloan School of Management

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[October 26, 2021] Advanced Bionics Receives 'Hearing Technology Innovator Award' for SKY CI M in the Cochlear Implants Category

Advanced Bionics, a global leader in cochlear implant technology, announced today that it has been recognized with a Hearing Technology Innovator Award for its SKY CI M sound processor by Hearing Health & Technology Matters for its technological innovation and achievement in the hearing industry. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005151/en/ Sky CI M (Photo: Business Wire) "We're honored to be recognized with this industry award. Advanced Bionics' SKY CI M is a cochlear implant industry first which acknowledges that children are not small adults. Children's listening needs, wearing requirements and daily listening situations are different from those of adults," said Victoria E. Carr-Brendel, Ph.D., GVP, Sonova Group and President of Advanced Bionics. Sky CI Marvel is the world's first dedicated sound processor for children that combines proven AB sound processing with the established Marvel platform from Phonak, a global leader in pediatric hearing care. AutoSense Sky OS 3.0 operating system is a machine-learning algorithm uniquely designed for child's typical listening situations, automatically providing excellent sound quality and performance wherever the child goes.



Offering a wide variety of wearing options, child-preferred colors, and waterproof accessories, Sky CI Marvel offers flexibility for a growing child's adventures, whether at the pool or in school. Its integrated Roger technology help kids hear their teachers and conversation partners in classrooms, cafeterias, and auditoriums directly in their ears, bypassing noise in the environment. Plus, direct smartphone connectivity via Bluetooth and the intuitive AB Remote app help kids stay connected with the world around them throughout their day.

"Hearing technologies being developed by companies like Advanced Bionics are helping set the standard for innovation in the industry," said Kevin Lobe, Hearing Health & Technology Matters President and CEO. About Advanced Bionics Advanced Bionics is a global leader in developing hearing solutions for individuals with severe and profound hearing loss who no longer benefit from hearing aids. Founded in 1993 and a subsidiary of the Sonova Group since 2009, AB develops cutting-edge cochlear implant technology that allows recipients to hear their best. AB joined Phonak as part of the Sonova Group of companies and began a collaboration unlike any other in the industry. Since then, the innovation leaders in cochlear implants and hearing aids have continuously combined technologies to deliver new, unequalled hearing solutions. With sales in more than 50 countries and a proven track record for developing high-performing, state-of-the-art products, AB's talented worldwide group of technologists and professionals are driven to engage with patients and professionals, work with integrity, and stay firmly committed to the best possible performance. About the Hearing Technology Innovator Awards The Hearing Technology Innovator Awards is an annual international awards program whereby Hearing Health & Technology Matters recognizes and celebrates innovation within the hearing industry. Learn more at https://hearinghealthmatters.org/hearing-technology-innovator-awards/ The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Sonova AG is under license. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005151/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Valeo Networks Receives Private Debt Investment from Siebert Williams Shank & Co.-Affiliated Clear Vision Impact Fund

ROCKLEDGE, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Valeo Networks, an industry-leading Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP), today announced it has received a significant private debt investment from Clear Vision Impact Fund, a New York-based investment initiative sponsored by an affiliate of Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC and managed by SWS Capital Management. The funding will expand Valeo Networks' national reach and growth through strategic mergers and acquisitions (M&A). Financial terms are not being released. Clear Vision Impact Fund (Clear Vision) has closed on more than $100 million in capital commitments to invest in sustainable minority-owned or operated businesses, with a focus on African American businesses, businesses that operate in or serve underperforming communities, and those that foster inclusive growth through commercially sustainable business models. As a rising minority-owned business, Valeo Networks was chosen as one of the recipient companies for Clear Vision's funding. With this capital backing in place, and having already acquired four Managed Service Providers (MSPs) in 2020, the company will now be able to execute on next-level growth plans by pursuing additional acquisitions of small to mid-size MSPs and MSSPs nationwide. Through M&A growth and the partnership with Clear Vision, Valeo Networks plans to further strengthen its cybersecurity capabilities, expand its nationwide services, and diversify its workforce. Valeo Networks' ultimate goal is to build a national network of IT experts to comprehensively support and protect its client base. "We are humbled and truly excied to grow with our new partners at Clear Vision Impact Fund," said Travis Mack, CEO, Valeo Networks. "We've had many opportunities to partner with other investment firms, but SWS Capital Management and the Clear Vision mission and dedication to being more than just another investment firm rang loudly to me and perfectly aligns with Valeo Networks' aspirations of being more than just another Information Technology company. We look forward to incredible advancements and growth in the near future."



"Travis and the Valeo Networks team have built an excellent business, differentiated by its leadership, its broad range of capabilities and experience supporting its target markets," said Christopher Williams, CEO, SWS Capital Management. "We are excited about the opportunities before them in the highly fragmented MSSP sector. We look forward to expanding our relationship with Valeo Networks by providing both financial capital and support." About Valeo Networks

Valeo Networks is a full-service, award-winning Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) that serves State, County, Municipal markets; small-to-medium businesses (SMBs); and non-profit organizations. Firmly seated in the top 5% of revenue generating MSSPs nationwidemaking it one of the largest MSSPs nationallyValeo Networks provides solutions in the areas of cybersecurity, compliance, cloud, network infrastructure, and managed IT services. With over 20 years of industry experience, Valeo Networks is headquartered in Rockledge, FL, with additional locations nationwide. Learn more at www.valeonetworks.com.



Valeo Networks Contact:

Neal Stein

Technology PR Solutions

[email protected]

(321) 473-7407 About Clear Vision

Clear Vision Impact Fund, LP is an investment vehicle founded by Shank Williams Cisneros, LLC, the parent company of Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC and SWS Capital Management, LLC. Siebert Williams Shank & Co., LLC. is a leading non-bank financial services firm serving clients across industries and asset classes. It is the only U.S. investment bank certified as both a minority-owned and women-owned enterprise. For more information about Clear Vision, visit www.clearvisionimpact.com. Clear Vision Press Contact:

Butler Associates: (212) 685-4600

Tom Butler: [email protected] / (646) 213-1802

Christian Agredo: [email protected] / (646) 213-0286 View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/valeo-networks-receives-private-debt-investment-from-siebert-williams-shank--co-affiliated-clear-vision-impact-fund-301408188.html SOURCE Valeo Networks

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[October 26, 2021] Cazoo Announces Third Quarter 2021 Financial Results

Cazoo Group Limited (NYSE: CZOO) ("Cazoo" or "the Company"), Europe's leading online car retailer, which makes buying and selling a car as simple as ordering any other product online, has announced its financial results for the three months ended September 30, 2021.







Q3 2021 Summary Results Q3 2021

(unaudited) Q3 2020

(unaudited) Change Vehicles Sold 13,074 4,232 +209% Retail 9,460 3,455 +174% Wholesale 3,614 777 +365% Revenue (m)1 174.4 47.5 +267% Retail (m) 136.1 44.4 +207% Wholesale (m) 21.8 2.3 +848% Other (m) 16.4 0.8 +1,950% Retail GPU ()2 801 (202) +1,003 Gross Profit (m) 11.8 (0.7) 12.5 Gross Margin (%) 6.8% (1.5%) +8.3%pts

1 Q3 'Retail revenue' excludes 8.3m of sales where Cazoo sold vehicles as an agent for third parties and only the net commission received from those sales is recorded within revenue. 'Other revenue' includes ancillary products, subscription, remarketing and servicing income. 2 Retail GPU (Gross Profit per Unit) is derived from retail and ancillary product revenues, divided by retail units sold (net of returns). Q3 2021 Financial highlights Strong growth in Revenue up 267% YoY, to 174.4m in Q3 Retail revenues up 207% YoY as proposition resonates strongly with consumers Wholesale revenues increased 848% YoY following launch of direct buying channel

Significant improvement in Retail GPU to 801, up 1,003 YoY Continued to drive further operational efficiencies and increase ancillary revenues Reduced inventory costs with shift in buying mix as we source more from consumers

Vehicles sold up 209% YoY, to 13,074 during Q3 Demand for proposition continues to grow strongly despite a recent dip in inventory Materially increased wholesale volumes as more cars sourced directly from consumers

Gross profit of 11.8m, up by 12.5m compared to Q3 2020 Gross margin in Q3 at 6.8%, up 8.3%pts YoY resulting from increased scale efficiencies

Q3 2021 Strategic highlights Completed business combination with AJAX and listed on NYSE Raised proceeds of approximately $836 million net of fees to further accelerate growth Significant funds for further building out of our operations, brand and infrastructure

Launched buying channel with high volume of cars sourced directly from consumers 10% of Q3 retail units sold sourced directly from consumers (Q3 20: 2%, Q2 21: 6%) Combined Q3 retail sales and purchases of 16,221, up 261% from 4,492 in Q3 2020

Acquired SMH, one of the UK's leading vehicle preparation, logistics & storage businesses Deal provides significant additional in-house reconditioning and logistics capacity Alleviates future reconditioning constraints and supports UK growth ambitions

Acquired Cazana, one of the leading automotive data insights platforms in Europe Enhances our data team capabilities with strong team of data scientists & engineers Enables further optimisation of buying and pricing of vehicles across UK and Europe

Alex Chesterman OBE, Founder & CEO of Cazoo, commented, "We are very encouraged by our record Q3 results, with revenues up 267% YoY to 174.4m during the quarter and retail gross profit per unit up again significantly to 801 as we further leverage operational efficiencies across the business. We achieved a gross profit of 11.8m over the period with a gross margin of 6.8%, resulting from our increased scale. "It is very clear that our proposition is resonating strongly with consumers and that the shift to online car buying is accelerating. The biggest constraint to growth remains our ability to recondition cars fast enough to meet demand. Bringing that process in-house has led to a recent dip in vehicles available for sale during the transition and we firmly believe that greater stock levels would have resulted in even higher retail sales over Q3. Continuing to scale our reconditioning output remains a key priority and we expect to make further progress in growing our inventory levels through the remainder of the year. The acquisition of SMH this quarter has provided us with significant additional refurbishment capability to support our future growth. "In July we launched our car buying channel, sourcing inventory directly from consumers, with uptake to date well ahead of expectations. In Q3, we purchased 6,761 vehicles directly from consumers, up 552% YoY, diversifying our selection and improving our inventory acquisition costs. We expect this to significantly change our buying mix over time, helping to improve future retail margins and grow our wholesale business. "In Q3, 10% of retail units sold were sourced directly from consumers, up from 2% in Q3 2020 and 6% in Q2. Combining retail sales and direct consumer purchases, we did 16,221 total transactions in Q3, up 261% from 4,492 in Q3 2020. Whilst the wider industry is experiencing supply constraints, we have seen limited issues in this area to date and have become less reliant on external sources of supply following the launch of our direct car buying channel, which we expect to provide a significant volume of vehicles. "During the period we also acquired Cazana, enhancing our data team and capabilities and enabling us to further optimise our vehicle purchasing and pricing across the UK and Europe. We are very excited about our upcoming launch into mainland Europe as we continue to develop our team and infrastructure in both France and Germany and we remain on track to launch in both markets later this quarter. We will continue to accelerate our investment and rollout plans where we believe it is right to do so. "Looking forward to the remainder of the year, we continue to see very strong consumer demand in both our car buying and selling channels. We currently have lower levels of vehicles available for sale than we consider optimal and we continue to make solid progress on ramping up our reconditioning output following our acquisition of SMH. We forecast 2021 revenues of over 650 million (which excludes 15-20 million of sales where Cazoo sold vehicles as an agent for third parties), implying Q4 growth of over 25% quarter on quarter and over 200% year on year." Cazoo will host a conference call and live webcast today, October 26, 2021, at 8 a.m. ET to discuss the financial results. To participate in the live call, analysts and investors should dial 1-877-704-6255 or international callers, 1-215-268-9947. The live webcast of the conference call along with supplemental financial information will also be accessible on Cazoo's website at https://investors.cazoo.co.uk. A webcast of the call will also be available on the investor relations page of the Company's website for 90 days at https://www.cazoo.co.uk/investors/. About Cazoo - www.cazoo.co.uk Our mission is to transform the car buying and selling experience across the UK & Europe by providing better selection, value, transparency, convenience and peace of mind. Our aim is to make buying or selling a car no different to ordering any other product online, where consumers can simply and seamlessly buy, sell, finance or subscribe to a car entirely online for delivery or collection in as little as 72 hours. Cazoo was founded in 2018 by serial entrepreneur Alex Chesterman OBE, is backed some of the leading technology investors globally and is publicly traded (NYSE: CZOO). Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the "safe harbour" provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The expectations, estimates, and projections of the business of Cazoo may differ from its actual results and, consequently, you should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words "believe," "project," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "intend," "strategy," "future," "opportunity," "plan," "may," "should," "will," "would," "will be," "will continue," "will likely result," and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are predictions, projections and other statements about future events that are based on current expectations and assumptions and, as a result, are subject to risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause actual future events to differ materially from the forward-looking statements in this press release, including but not limited to: (1) realizing the benefits expected from the business combination with Ajax I (the "Business Combination"); (2) achieving the expected revenue growth and effectively managing growth; (3) executing Cazoo's expansion strategy in Europe; (4) acquiring and integrating other companies; (5) achieving and maintaining profitability in the future; (6) having access to suitable and sufficient vehicle inventory for resale to customers and for Cazoo's subscription offering and refurbishing and selling inventory expeditiously and efficiently; (7) expanding Cazoo's subscription offering; (8) increasing Cazoo's service offerings and price optimization; (9) effectively promoting Cazoo's brand and increasing brand awareness; (10) expanding Cazoo's product offerings and introducing additional products and services; (11) enhancing future operating and financial results; (12) acquiring and protecting intellectual property; (13) attracting, training and retaining key personnel; (14) complying with laws and regulations applicable to Cazoo's business; (15) successfully deploying the proceeds from the Business Combination; and (16) other risks and uncertainties set forth in the sections entitled "Risk Factors" and "Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" in the registration statement on Form F-1 and the prospectus included therein filed by Cazoo Group Ltd. The foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. You should carefully consider the foregoing factors and the disclosure included in other documents filed by Cazoo from time to time with the SEC (News - Alert). These filings identify and address other important risks and uncertainties that could cause actual events and results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. Readers are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements, and Cazoo assumes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Cazoo gives no assurance that it will achieve its expectations. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005258/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Eat Well Group Provides Operational Update on Plant-Based FoodTech Portfolio Company

Eat Well Investment Group Inc. (the "Company" or "Eat Well Group") (CSE:EWG) (US:EWGFF) (FRA:6BC0) is pleased to provide an operational update on Sapientia Technology LLC ("Sapientia" or "Sapientia Technology"), a food technology ("FoodTech") portfolio holding of the Company, since completing its acquisition of Sapientia on July 30th, 2021. Led by Dr. Eugenio Bortone, one of the world's most preeminent food scientists, extrusion processing experts, and inventor of Frito-Lay's Twisted Cheetos, Sapientia has created and filed four foundational patents revolving around the "protein curl" and crispy puff style snack. By focusing on the texture and crunch, Sapientia's disruptive patents solve one of the major problems large-scale snack-food companies have struggled with for years; the utility of the snack; including texture, flavour, and offering a guilt free, not fried, natural and healthy alternative to the majority of snack food products on the market today. "Innovation to date in the snack food sector has been through products that are essentially less bad for you; however, consumers are about to learn that through proprietary formulations, novel IP and trade secrets, Sapientia is developing products that are in fact healthier, and actually better for you," commented Dr. Gino Bortone, Founder and CEO of Sapientia. "I am thrilled to disrupt the multi-billion-dollar snack category with products that support the best of health & wellness." Innovation: Sapientia is focused on disrupting the entire snack food market that is estimated to reach $736 billion by 2026. The company has developed a breakthrough in fried vs. baked extrusion technology processing, creating a proprietary trade secret. Sapientia has created a unique process that produces the textural attributes of a fried product that is intead baked, with an ample nutritional value as a "better for you" source of protein and fiber, with reduced-fat.



Dr. Bortone and his team of culinary chefs who work in partnership with seasoning houses, have developed natural 100% plant-based seasonings that are completely vegan. Intellectual property that centers around process and formula that uniquely creates plant-based food snacks with very high nutritional value, palatability, and a crispy eating experience. Sapientia owns a significant portfolio of process trade secrets and patents, most notably a transformational path of a puffy snack into a crunchy crisp; something that has presented a tremendous challenge to leading international CPG players over the past 30 years. The goal is to include increased nutritional credentials to a product that has historically been considered to be full of empty calories, fat, and carbs, and that is exactly what Sapientia has been able to achieve.

Current Operations: Sapientia is focused on product development in several areas of the snack food market and with years of R&D behind the company, Sapientia is pleased to announce it will be commercializing its products in the coming months, including a wide array of new protein products targeting people and pets. "There is an incredible amount of demand for these products already in the marketplace as more and more consumers are turning to healthier alternatives to traditional snack foods," commented Dr. Gino Bortone, "And with the launch of our P Curls expected in December to nearly 350 stores across western Canada, we couldn't be more thrilled to have an immediate path to market." Future Developments: In addition to the existing patents, Sapientia is pleased to announce it has formed a strategic plant-based Eat Well phytoIP platform. This new strategic initiative will research high moisture meat analogue ("HMMA") alternatives, fermentation processes, plant-based protein cultivation, and phytonutrient-forward formulae to deploy across foods and beverages. Led by Dr. Bortone and his team and leveraging Dr. Bortone's extensive network and global reach in the plant-based food industry, Sapientia is in active discussions with several marquis players in bioinformatics, biomimicry, and extrusion technology to develop the next generation of plant-based foods. Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre Through its portfolio companies, Eat Well Group continues to collaborate with the Saskatchewan Food Industry Develop Centre Inc. ("Food Centre") to commercialize and expand the product offerings of its investee companies, Dan Prefontaine, President of the Food Centre and strategic advisor to Eat Well Group has been an important liaison between the two organizations to help drive continued innovation in plant-based food products. Dan Prefontaine has assisted over 400 companies develop over 900 CPG products in his 30+ year career to date. To learn more, join Eat Well Group's mailing list for important updates. ABOUT EAT WELL GROUP Eat Well Group is a publicly-traded investment Company primarily focused on high-growth companies in the agribusiness, food tech, plant-based and ESG (environmental, social and governance) sectors. Eat Well Group's management team has an extensive record of sourcing, financing and building successful companies across a broad range of industries and maintains a current investment mandate on the health/wellness industry. The team has financed and invested in early-stage venture companies for greater than 25 years, resulting in unparalleled access to deal flow and the ability to construct a portfolio of opportunistic investments intended to generate superior risk-adjusted returns. The Canadian Securities Exchange has neither approved nor disapproved the information contained herein and does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005466/en/

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[October 26, 2021]

Xantrion Inc. Named to San Francisco Business Times Fast 100 List

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Xantrion Inc. has been named to the San Francisco Business Times Fast 100 list as one of the Bay Area's fastest-growing companies.

This high-profile list includes privately held companies headquartered in the Bay Area, which is defined as Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco and San Mateo counties with revenues over $200,000, based on their percent growth in revenue from fiscal years 2018-2020.

"It is gratifying to make the list," said Anne Bisagno, president and co-founder of Xantrion. "I have the best team in the IT business!"

About Xantrion Inc.

Experts in cybersecurity and technical support, Xantrion provides outsourced IT ervices for midsized companies in the San Francisco Bay Area. Its team of IT experts brings impeccable technical and business skills to every assignment. Featuring an award-winning strategic approach, SOC2 Type II certified security practices, 24/7 help desk, fixed fees, and a 99.9% uptime record, Xantrion is a proven partner for managed IT and security services.







Media Contact:

Anne Bisagno

[email protected]

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SOURCE Xantrion Inc.
[October 26, 2021] VMware Paves the Way for Radio Access Network (RAN) Modernization

Service providers are transforming their RAN to architectures that are open and programmable. This provides an opportunity for developers to create innovative apps and services to be deployed across the RAN. A proponent of this wave of RAN innovation, VMware (NYSE: VMW) today announced several updates to its RAN portfolio of products and introduced VMware RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC). VMware RIC, along with VMware Telco Cloud Platform RAN, will help service providers smoothly transition to Open RAN. "When it comes to Open RAN, the genie is out of the bottle. The potential benefits of increasing innovation while reducing operational expense are compelling. As such, VMware is pushing to accelerate the transformation of the RAN along with Open RAN principles," said Sanjay Uppal, senior vice president and general manager, Service Provider and Edge, VMware. "VMware is paving the way for service providers to modernize the RAN so it is programmable and intelligent, built with best-of-breed solutions from a vibrant partner ecosystem." Introducing VMware RIC The RAN Intelligent Controller (RIC) is a new function introduced by the O-RAN Alliance that enables service providers to deploy cloud-native control and management apps in the RAN. VMware is today introducing VMware RIC, a platform that abstracts the underlying RAN infrastructure and provides developer APIs for xApps and rApps to program the RAN. VMware RIC platform will consist of two RICs that can run independent of each other, or together: VMware Centralized RIC , an implementation of the non-real-time RAN Intelligent Controller (non-RT RIC) in the O-RAN Alliance reference architecture. It will manage and host rApps that have control functions with response timing greater than one second.

, an implementation of the non-real-time RAN Intelligent Controller (non-RT RIC) in the O-RAN Alliance reference architecture. It will manage and host rApps that have control functions with response timing greater than one second. VMware Distributed RIC, an implementation of the near-real-time RAN Intelligent Controller (near-RT RIC) in the O-RAN Alliance reference architecture. It will manage and host xApps that have control functions with response timing less than one second, typically on the order of 10's of milliseconds. VMware RIC will provide service providers with: Choice and flexibility to transform the RAN into an open, intelligent RAN while minimizing business disruption.

transform the RAN into an open, intelligent RAN while minimizing business disruption. An agile RAN architecture so they can quickly respond to customer needs, changes in traffic pattern, as well as any unforeseen events that require a sudden shift.

they can quickly respond to customer needs, changes in traffic pattern, as well as any unforeseen events that require a sudden shift. Programmability and intelligence to enable innovations introduced by a broad ecosystem.

enable innovations introduced by a broad ecosystem. Enhanced security to better safeguard a larger attack surface inherent to the distributed nature of RAN sites and the devices connected to them. VMware has engineered its RIC to seamlessly integrate with traditional RAN equipment as well as virtualized RAN network functions independent of them being O-RAN compliant. A large ecosystem of xApps and rApps enables service providers to maximize the benefits of an Open RAN to address their unique requirements and priorities. To drive the growth of this ecosystem, VMware plans to offer a RAN application developer program to help partners jump-start and accelerate development of xApps and rApps with VMware RIC SDKs, access to VMware RIC development licenses, developer support, testing environment, and interoperability certification. The planned program will be centered around the developer experience, from the initial design of the xApp/rApp all the way to the deployment. Examples of partners who are already working with VMware to integrate their xApps and/or rApps as microservices on VMware RIC through SDKs, include: Cohere Technologies' Spectrum Multiplier xApp improves spectral efficiency for service providers by as much as 2x with the use of its unique Delay-Doppler channel representation (read the press release).

Polte's location xApp pioneers more secure, accurate and global location intelligence for service providers and their customers (read the press release).

AirHop (News - Alert) xApps and rApps support a broad spectrum of use cases, including RAN configuration and operation optimization, interference management, capacity and coverage optimization, and mobility optimization.

Cellwize RAN intelligence technology and rApps enable backward compatibility alongside O-RAN future proof management and orchestration of multi-vendor networks. Intel is a strategic partner as VMware works with service providers to virtualize the RAN. VMware RIC is based on Intel FlexRAN reference architecture, enabling a flexible and programmable platform for software-defined RANs. "Intel FlexRAN software allows operators transitioning to a cloud-native architecture to run their RAN and AI workloads on the same standard hardware platform as other workloads, from core to edge to access," said Cristina Rodriguez, vice president of Intel's Network Edge Group and general manager, Wireless Access Network Division. "VMware RIC, powered with Intel AI and Machine Learning capabilities, supports a wide variety of xApps and rApps that will help operators optimize their network performance, deliver new functions and features, and offer new value-added services." VMware RIC SDKs are expected to be generally available in VMware's Q4 FY22. VMware RIC is expected to be initially vailable in VMware's Q1 FY23. Learn more about VMware RIC here.



New VMware Telco Cloud Platform RAN Capabilities VMware RIC, combined with VMware Telco Cloud Platform RAN, paves a clear and simple path toward RAN transformation. Service providers can virtualize RAN functions on a horizontal platform specifically optimized for RAN. The same platform, with VMware RIC, can be utilized for Open RAN, providing service providers flexibility and a smooth evolution toward the future without disrupting their business operations and overhauling network design.

Advancements to VMware Telco Cloud Platform RAN aim to strike a balance between network performance and operational flexibility. The platform's enhanced performance meets strict latency requirements to support even the most demanding RAN workloads, while its hypervisor functions as the unheralded workhorse to provide operational flexibility. New VMware Telco Cloud Platform RAN features will provide service providers with: Superior performance: VMware ESXi delivers real-time performance for RAN workloads (read the blog).

VMware ESXi delivers real-time performance for RAN workloads (read the blog). Cost reduction : VMware Tanzu for Telco combined with VMware ESXi allows service providers to mix and match various cloud-native RAN workloads and custom 5G applications on the same physical appliance, ideal for open and disaggregated RAN where space is limited at the cell site and the number of sites keeps growing.

: VMware Tanzu for Telco combined with VMware ESXi allows service providers to mix and match various cloud-native RAN workloads and custom 5G applications on the same physical appliance, ideal for open and disaggregated RAN where space is limited at the cell site and the number of sites keeps growing. Operational consistency: VMware Telco Cloud Platform RAN provides a common platform and end-to-end automation and orchestration across 5G networks to prevent creating siloed islands of network functions. Learn more about Telco Cloud Platform RAN here. O-RAN Service Management and Orchestration (SMO) Service providers are adopting a multi-vendor service and orchestration management (SMO) framework as defined by the O-RAN Alliance. This SMO framework includes the non-real-time RIC, O-Cloud management, and FCAPS (fault, configuration, accounting, performance and security) management. VMware's RAN portfolio is uniquely positioned to address all these functions: VMware Centralized RIC with associated SDK and rApps.

VMware Telco Cloud Automation for O-Cloud management.

VMware Telco Cloud Operations for FCAPS spanning RAN infrastructure, transport and mobile core. While the above components will integrate seamlessly for a simplified experience, customers may choose to deploy any component independently. VMware Partners with Aspire to Streamline RAN Testing and Validation Aspire Technology is a well-established leader within the Open RAN ecosystem, not only with its Open RAN Lab services, but also through a wide range of projects with global service providers, technology partners, systems integrators and Open RAN communities. Leveraging Aspire's deep heritage in networks, the Aspire Open RAN Lab enables technology partners, like VMware, and service providers to fast-track development, integration, test and deployment of Open RAN-based networks. VMware and Aspire are announcing today they have entered into a strategic partnership to accelerate and simplify testing and integration of Telco Cloud Platform RAN as part of a service provider's end-to-end network. Bill Walsh, CEO of Aspire Technology, stated, "As an independent supplier, we believe that Open RAN is a transformational move in network disaggregation, thus we are excited to partner with VMware in helping service providers smoothly transition to Open RAN." Connect with Us at the Telco Innovation Summit Presented by VMware and Intel, the Telco Innovation Summit will bring together leading service providers, technology partners, and industry experts to discuss strategic priorities for 5G, RAN and edge network modernization. Join the conversation on November 4. Additional Customer & Partner Commentary Alphabetically, by company name. Joe Thome, vice president of business operations and marketing at AirHop, said, "We are thrilled to collaborate with VMware to accelerate the realization of AirHop's commercially hardened 4G and 5G RAN automation and optimization solutions in the O-RAN architecture on the VMware RIC. Combining VMware RIC with AirHop xApps and rApps will enable MNOs to optimize their network performance in real time and reduce operating costs." Manish Gangey, head of R&D at Airtel (News - Alert), said, "By making it simple to insert new features and capabilities from third parties into the RAN, the RIC enables us to easily customize and optimize our network, diversify our supply chain and innovate faster. We believe VMware's RIC platform and the work it is doing to support the RAN ecosystem will further accelerate the open RAN transformation." Ray Dolan, chairman and CEO of Cohere Technologies, said, "Our Spectrum Multiplier software, when running as an xApp on VMware's RIC platform, provides CSPs with a powerful solution to extend spectral efficiency and deliver a great user experience to customers accessing 5G services." Sidd Chenumolu, vice president of Technology Development at DISH Wireless, said, "The RIC brings unprecedented programmability to RAN and accelerates the pace of innovation and network automation. The introduction of VMware RIC is an important milestone for the industry that will encourage many more operators to embrace and deploy Open RAN." Charles Ferland, vice president & general manager, Edge Computing & Communication Service Providers, Lenovo (News - Alert), said, "Lenovo supports VMware's vision for Open RAN solutions through our purpose-built edge servers. Together with VMware's RAN innovation we deliver comprehensive solutions to enable the service providers journey to 5G." Ed Chao, CEO of Polte, said, "The window of innovation for 5G is now: 5G Precise Positioning will unlock the full potential of 5G for enterprise digital transformation, enabling an entirely new set of use cases from Industry 4.0 to 5G Critical IoT. Together, Polte and VMware will provide the foundation for capturing the power of location for enterprise." Francisco Martin, head of Open RAN at Vodafone (News - Alert), said, "Vodafone's recent successful trial of the VMware RIC validated that it can host time-sensitive control-loop applications such as MU-MIMO user pairing and precoding, which in turn boosts spectrum efficiency and capacity for subscribers. In the future, the RIC will allow us to introduce new innovative services in the network. VMware's RIC platform will help service providers advance their open RAN journey and we're excited to continue our collaboration with VMware to bring software-defined networking to RAN." Additional Resources: Read a perspective on today's news from Stephen Spellicy, vice president of product marketing and business development, Service Provider and Edge, VMware

Visit telco.vmware.com.

Bookmark the VMware Telco Cloud blog

Get all VMware Telco Cloud updates on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn About VMware VMware is a leading provider of multi-cloud services for all apps, enabling digital innovation with enterprise control. As a trusted foundation to accelerate innovation, VMware software gives businesses the flexibility and choice they need to build the future. Headquartered in Palo Alto (News - Alert), California, VMware is committed to building a better future through the company's 2030 Agenda. For more information, please visit www.vmware.com/company. VMware and Telco Cloud Platform are registered trademarks or trademarks of VMware, Inc. or its subsidiaries in the United States and other jurisdictions. This article may contain hyperlinks to non-VMware websites that are created and maintained by third parties who are solely responsible for the content on such websites. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005506/en/

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[October 26, 2021] iBio Urges Shareholders to Vote "FOR" All Proposals Ahead of its Upcoming Annual Meeting to be Held on December 9

BRYAN, Texas, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- iBio, Inc. (NYSEA:IBIO) (iBio or the Company), a developer of next-generation biopharmaceuticals and pioneer of the sustainable, plant-based FastPharming Manufacturing System, today urged its stockholders to vote FOR all proposals put forth in the proxy statement prior to the Companys December 9, 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders.

Stockholders are advised that, because two of the voting proposals involve a proposed amendment to the Companys Articles of Incorporation, the holders of a majority of outstanding common shares must approve such proposals. Stockholders holding common stock at the close of business on Friday, October 15, 2021, are entitled to vote at the meeting, even if they have subsequently sold their shares. YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT 

NO MATTER HOW MANY OR HOW FEW SHARES YOU OWN Ahead of our 2021 Annual Meeting, we are encouraging our shareholders to actively participate in the proxy voting process. Their input is vital for the continued strategic growth and development of the Company, said Tom Isett, Chairman & CEO of iBio. Of course, our Board of Directors is elected to represent our shareholders, and the Boards voting recommendations reflect its continued confidence in the long-term growth and financial performance of our Company. While we encourage shareholders to support the Boards recommendations, we want to hear everyones voice. Thus, we urge everyone eligible to participate in the process and vote. Since the filing of our preliminary proxy materials, we have been pleased to see a high level of shareholder engagement. To help facilitate continued dialogue, we have created a new Q&A page in the Investors section of our website based upon inquiries to date. We plan to update that page, if needed, leading up to the meeting, concluded Mr. Isett. To vote their shares, stockholders should locate the control number on their proxy card or voting instruction form and follow the voting instructions. If they do not have a proxy card or voting instruction form, they can call Okapi Partners at 1-844-203-3605 (U.S. and Canada) or +1-212-297-0720 (from other locations) from 9:00 a.m. ET to 8:00 p.m. ET Mondays  Fridays for assistance. Important Information p align="justify">This communication may be deemed to be solicitation material in connection with the proposals to be considered at iBios 2021 Annual Meeting of Stockholders. In connection with the proposals, the Company filed a definitive proxy statement on Schedule 14A with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the SEC) on October 26, 2021. Shareholders are urged to read the definitive proxy statement and all other relevant documents filed with the SEC because they contain important information about the proposals. An electronic copy of the definitive proxy statement is available on the Companys website at www.ibioinc.com under "SEC Filings" in the Investors section, and on the Companys EDGAR profile at www.sec.gov.



About iBio, Inc. iBio is a developer of next-generation biopharmaceuticals and a pioneer in sustainable, plant-based biologics manufacturing. Its FastPharming System combines vertical farming, automated hydroponics, and novel glycosylation technologies to rapidly deliver high-quality monoclonal antibodies, antigens, and other proteins. iBio is developing proprietary biopharmaceuticals for the treatment of cancers, as well as fibrotic and infectious diseases. The Companys subsidiary, iBio CDMO LLC, provides FastPharming Contract Development and Manufacturing Services along with Glycaneering Development Services for advanced recombinant protein design. For more information, visit www.ibioinc.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS Certain statements in this press release constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Words such as "may," "might," "will," "should," "believe," "expect," "anticipate," "estimate," "continue," "predict," "forecast," "project," "plan," "intend" or similar expressions, or statements regarding intent, belief, or current expectations, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based upon current estimates and assumptions and include statements regarding the anticipated effects of stockholder approval of matters to be voted on at iBios 2021 annual meeting of stockholders (the "Annual Meeting"). While the Company believes these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on any such forward-looking statements, which are based on information available to us on the date of this release. These forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties, many of which are difficult to predict that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations and assumptions from those set forth or implied by any forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations include, among others, the Companys ability to successfully hold its 2021 Annual Meeting, its ability to implement its development plans, its ability to obtain regulatory approvals for commercialization of its product candidates, including its COVID-19 vaccines, or to comply with ongoing regulatory requirements, regulatory limitations relating to its ability to promote or commercialize its product candidates for specific indications, acceptance of its product candidates in the marketplace and the successful development, marketing or sale of products; its ability to maintain its license agreements; the continued maintenance and growth of its patent estate, its ability to establish and maintain collaborations, its ability to obtain or maintain the capital or grants necessary to fund its research and development activities and whether the Company will incur unforeseen expenses or liabilities or other market factors, successful compliance with governmental regulations applicable to its manufacturing facilities, competition, its ability to retain its key employees or maintain its NYSE American listing, its ability to increase its authorized shares, and the other factors discussed in the Companys filings with the SEC including the Companys most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Companys subsequent filings with the SEC on Forms 10-Q and 8-K. The information in this release is provided only as of the date of this release, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release on account of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by law. Contact:

Stephen Kilmer

iBio, Inc.

Investor Relations

(646) 274-3580

[email protected]



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[October 26, 2021] Banty's Dr. Richard Tytus Explains Why Telemedicine Can Improve the Timeliness of Patient Care

TORONTO, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Throughout the COVID-19 global pandemic, a number of patients have either been unable to enter their doctor's office due to health and safety protocols, or have not tried to visit it out of fear of potentially catching the virus. Unfortunately, both scenarios can have a detrimental effect on a person's health. By not visiting a doctor's office, these patients run the risk of having a major condition go undetected for too long, or a pre-existing condition not properly monitored. For the sake of these patients, it is imperative that all medical clinics and healthcare professionals embrace virtual medicine solutions. According to findings shared by the American Medical Association (AMA), 80% of surveyed respondents said that virtual medicine improved the timeliness of care for their patients. In part, this means the more doctor's make virtual appointments available, the better chance they have at taking care of all their patients in a timelier manner. Dr. Richard Tytus, Co-Founder and Medical Director of telemedicine solution Banty Inc. , uses virtual appointments frequently to meet with his patients. He thinks this method can improve the timeliness of patient care, because: Doctors can give patients a different treatment option: Some patients are still hesitant about visiting a doctor's office for any medical matter they might be facing. By clinic's adopting a reliable, easy, and secure telemedicine solution, these patients will have the opportunity to see their doctor and have a real conversation about what may be ailing them. This will certainly help medical professionals catch a new, or worsening ailment, before it's too late



Some patients are still hesitant about visiting a doctor's office for any medical matter they might be facing. By clinic's adopting a reliable, easy, and secure telemedicine solution, these patients will have the opportunity to see their doctor and have a real conversation about what may be ailing them. This will certainly help medical professionals catch a new, or worsening ailment, before it's too late Telemedicine solutions are readily available: Banty Medical is a virtual medicine solution that's been created by doctors and patients, for doctors and their patients. Not only is this product simple to access and operate, but it also respects the privacy of all appointment participants. Doctors get to create a custom Banty room address (i.e., Banty.com/MyClinic ). This is the only link a patient will ever need to use to see their doctor. Meanwhile, Banty Medical is HIPAA/PHIPA compliant, while doctor-patient conversations remain secure and confidential thanks to the use of end-to-end encryption



Banty Medical is a virtual medicine solution that's been created by doctors and patients, for doctors and their patients. Not only is this product simple to access and operate, but it also respects the privacy of all appointment participants. Doctors get to create a custom Banty room address (i.e., ). This is the only link a patient will ever need to use to see their doctor. Meanwhile, Banty Medical is HIPAA/PHIPA compliant, while doctor-patient conversations remain secure and confidential thanks to the use of end-to-end encryption Patients have a growing understanding of telemedicine: Even though telemedicine has been around in different formats for a number of years now, the COVID-19 global pandemic made more patients aware of it. As such, many of these individuals will begin to expect their doctor to have such a treatment option. When a practice offers virtual medicine services, individuals who can't take time off of work to travel to and from the doctor's office, can instead get checked out quicker in a video call setting "Virtual medicine is so convenient and itallows doctors to make sure every patient they have can be cared for in a timely fashion," offers Dr. Tytus. "Adding such a feature to any medical clinic is a surefire way to best monitor the health of all patients."



Banty.com's video call service offers all subscribers a custom, permanent URL (i.e., Banty.com/MyMeeting ); a secure, end-to-end encrypted meeting space; excellent video quality; unlimited meetings each month; and straightforward scheduling tools. Banty has a number of solutions that are meant to make it easy to meet with those who matter most to you. (Watch the 'Banty Is Easy' video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nhmVdwrR_w8&t=10s )

Today, everyone has a mobile number and an email address. In the near future, everyone will have a Banty room address: Banty.com/YourName About Banty Founded in 2020, Banty offers exceptional video conferencing solutions for Businesses , Medical Practices , Virtual Events , and Personal use . Banty video conferencing is easy to use and ultra-secure. The platform provides users with a dedicated Banty.com URL , accessible via any desktop browser or through iOS and Android mobile apps. In order to receive government approval to become a verified medical platform, Banty was upgraded to meet new cyber security standards, making it one of the most secure platforms available. Each day, the Banty team goes above and beyond to ensure the platform remains one of the most secure and innovative virtual meeting solutions in the world. For more information, please visit Banty.org/solutions , or follow Banty on social media to learn more about the latest platform innovations: LinkedIn , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube , Instagram . Media Contact Scott Wilson

289-259-8059

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bantys-dr-richard-tytus-explains-why-telemedicine-can-improve-the-timeliness-of-patient-care-301408001.html SOURCE Banty Inc.

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[October 26, 2021] LeaseLock Releases Major Innovation Leveraging AI to Completely Eliminate Security Deposits

LeaseLock, the world's leading insurtech platform for real estate, today announced a significant product advancement for the multifamily industry, which now deploys AI to customize coverage by asset and expedite claims payments for property owners. The lease insurance upgrade includes simplified coverage plans of all sizes and a claims process streamlined to function as fast as cash. The release is now available to all new and existing clients. LeaseLock replaces traditional security deposits and surety bonds by insuring a property's leases, achieving 92% resident adoption rate on average. As a result of this unmatched coverage, LeaseLock clients are able to lower bad debt while drastically reducing deposit administration and regulatory risk. This advancement introduces a new AI-powered risk platform that optimizes coverage for each asset by analyzing historical financial performance data and continually monitors ongoing risk to adapt coverage. "The ability to assess the required coverage levels for individual assets and deploy customized protection plans is game-changing," said Mark Stringer, Executive Vice President at Avenue5 Residential. "The uncertainty of security deposits and deposit alternatives make them outdated models that too often result in insufficient coverage and bad debt that we can't recover. Optimizable and superior protection plans, like those provided through LeaseLock, take the guesswork out of coverage." Through this upgrade LeaseLock also provides a drastically improved claims experience with more flexible deadlines and exedited processing. By taking claims completely in-house, the insurtech leader can deliver claims payouts in as fast as 48 business hours. All insurance policies are covered by QBE, an A-rated global insurance carrier, establishing strength and trust for LeaseLock clients to expand.



"LeaseLock has revolutionized the claims experience," said Marcie Williams, President at RKW Residential. "There is no comparison between the ease of using lease insurance and the contrasting experience with deposits and deposit alternatives. We selected a true insurance product because it's the only way to get rid of deposits and their failures for good. This model is also much more renter-friendly, eliminating resident collections for claims paid by the carrier to the property, thereby preserving resident satisfaction and reputation scores." LeaseLock covers rent and damage, as well as partial rent payments, pet damage, utility fees, eviction costs, termination fees and late fees. The comprehensive protections consolidate coverage under a single limit, removing many exclusions and aligning with standard operating procedures for move-outs to improve debt recovery.

"With this advancement, our product is wired directly to standardized move-out workflows and accounting processes-streamlining operations for property managers and maximizing claim value for owners," said Ed Wolff, Chief Revenue Officer at Leaselock. "We effectively removed deadlines, pandemic exclusions, and eviction filing mandates and timelines to provide more protection and financial performance for each asset, all in a resident-friendly format." NMHC Top 50 operator LeaseLock clients include Greystar, Cushman & Wakefield, Avenue5 Residential, Harbor Group Management Co., LMC, and RKW Residential. Top ownership clients include Goldman Sachs, ColRich, GoldCor, Olive Tree, TruAmerica, White Oak, Trinsic (News - Alert), and Goodman Real Estate. About Us LeaseLock is the world's leading insurtech platform for real estate. We provide lease insurance to eliminate security deposits from the rental housing industry-removing complexity for residents and operators while creating superior financial performance for asset owners. Powered by artificial intelligence, we optimize coverage by property to better protect owners-resulting in industry-leading bad debt reduction. LeaseLock is deployed seamlessly within existing property software to increase lease conversion, drastically reduce deposit administration and regulatory risk, and improve the resident experience. LeaseLock has insured over $2 billion in leases backed by insurance rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best. Our global investors include SoftBank Ventures Asia, Wildcat Ventures, Westerly Winds, Vertex (News - Alert) Ventures US, Liberty Mutual Strategic Ventures, American Family Ventures, Moderne Ventures, and Mucker Capital. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005751/en/

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[October 26, 2021] HVR Expands SAP Data Extraction Capabilities, Enables Organizations to Leverage SAP Data for Broader, Real-Time Analytics

OAKLAND, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HVR  a Fivetran company and leading provider of real-time cloud data replication technology, today announced it has expanded its advanced SAP data extraction capabilities for SAP ERP and S/4HANA, enabling organizations to seamlessly leverage their SAP data for broader, real-time analytics.

Ninety-four percent of the worlds 500 largest companies are SAP customers, and many of them rely on SAP ERP , deploying SAP ECC or S/4HANA to support critical business processes. As organizations continue to understand the value of analyzing data in a timely manner to increase revenue, minimize risk, and lower costs, they must consolidate data from multiple sources, including SAP, into cloud-based analytical systems, data warehouses, and data lakes. But, accessing this valuable data outside of the SAP application is complex, costly, and resource intensive. HVR is a cost-effective solution that simplifies the data extraction process by capturing SAP data continuously and in real-time. It equips organizations with the flexibility to seamlessly integrate SAP data into cloud-based platforms for deeper business insights and real-time analytical reporting. With this expansion, customers will benefit from the following features: SAP Unpack: Makes SAP ECC's cluster, pool, and long text tables transparent without any additional footprint on the SAP source, accelerating table replication. SAP AppConnect Enables customers to use HVRs log-based change data capture without direct access to the application database to comply with SAP licensing or company policy.



SAP Table Explore: Helps customers easily select relevant source tables for replication based on the selection of functional SAP modules like Finance, Sales & Distribution, or Plant Maintenance. Additional key benefits include the SAP dictionary integration, HVRs unique log-based change data capture (CDC) technology for SAP ERP and SAP S/4HANA, and HVRs distributed architecture, among others.

With over 17,000 subscribers to SAPs S/4HANA , HVR is delighted to further its partnership with SAP to make real-time data accessible for optimum business decision making, said Edwin Commandeur, managing consultant and SAP expert at HVR. Customers can now work through challenging data models and licensing restrictions to access their data seamlessly and securely. This expansion significantly simplifies replicating SAP data, without slowing down SAPs transaction processing. The HVR platform is a reliable, secure, and scalable way to quickly and efficiently integrate large data volumes in complex environments, enabling real-time data updates, access, and analysis. HVR facilitates the adoption of the three major cloud platforms  AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud  with Snowflake as a prominent choice on these cloud platforms. Data is replicated from the most widely-used data platforms, including SAP, and validated to ensure the data delivered is accurate and made available for real-time consumption by key stakeholders. Helpful links: HVR's SAP Data Integration

HVR Test Drive

Read the HVR Blog

Follow HVR on Twitter

Follow HVR on LinkedIn

About HVR

HVR , a Fivetran company, provides a real-time cloud data replication solution that supports enterprise modernization efforts. The HVR platform is a reliable, secure, and scalable way to quickly and efficiently integrate large data volumes in complex environments, enabling real-time data updates, access, and analysis. Global market leaders in a variety of industries trust HVR to address their real-time data integration challenges and revolutionize their businesses. Fivetran acquired HVR in October 2021. Together they automate complex data integration challenges for companies ranging from global enterprises to startups combining the best modern SaaS, on-premise, and virtual private cloud set of solutions in the industry. HVR is based in San Francisco, with offices across North America, Europe, and Asia. Fivetran is headquartered in Oakland, California, with offices around the globe. For more information, visit fivetran.com or hvr-software.com . Media Contact

Marta Debski

Offleash for HVR

[email protected]



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[October 26, 2021] HP Launches its Best All-Around Home Printer

Highlights: New ENVY Inspire is the best, most versatile home printer HP has ever created Enabled with HP+, the smartest printing system 1 , providing 6 months of Instant Ink and 1 extra year warranty 2 First-of-its-kind HP photo printing capabilities with custom two-sided printing and templates that allow you to turn photos into gifts, cards, keepsakes and more 3 Built with sustainability in mind; made of over 45% recycled plastic content

PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- HP Inc. (NYSE: HPQ) today unveils HP ENVY Inspire with HP+. Nearly 86 percent of families are using their printer to manage everyday life4  ENVY Inspire is designed to fit their evolving needs as they work, learn, and create new memories from home. ENVY Inspire was built based on first-hand understanding of what is needed in our new normal, as the team that developed it did so while working remotely in the pandemic, said Xavier Garcia, Global Head, Print Hardware Systems, HP Inc. It brings together our best products, photo inks and services  combined with the smartest printing system HP+, our best-in-class HP Smart App5, innovative Instant Ink delivery  providing families with our most versatile home printing system yet. Beyond working and learning, ENVY Inspire can also help families preserve and celebrate the moments that matter most through new, first-of-its kind HP photo printing capabilities like custom two-sided printing, automatically adding date and location3, and true-to-phone quality6 in modern sizes7, like panorama and social-friendly square. Users can also choose from a wide range of templates available in the HP Smart App to make greeting cards, keepsakes, and more8. Perfect for the 72% of families who plan to spend more on travel in 2022 than they have in the past five years to make up for lost time9. Additional key features of HP ENVY Inspire include: Enabled with HP+, to provide the smartest printing system 10 SMART PRINTER  Print from anywhere: Anyone can securely access the printer, send, and store files, and print from home or virtually anywhere using any preferred device with the HP Smart App 8,11 . SMART INK  Never run out of ink: Families can save up to 50 percent on ink 12,13 . When individuals opt into HP+ they will receive 6 months of Instant Ink and 1 extra year of HP warranty with use of Original HP Ink. SMART APP  Enjoy extra features: HP+ gets the most out of the HP Smart App. From housework to homework, the HP Smart app helps advance-scan books, multiple receipts and store editable, searchable files 8 . SMART FOR THE PLANET  Print with a purpose: For every page printed with HP+, HP protects or restores forests in equal measure 14 .

New hybrid life friendly features Designed with quiet mode for those working, learning and creating from home. First HP printer to be certified as Works With Chromebook, helping families print the things needed for school, work, and everything in between 15 . Includes new Smart Driver, automatically rerouting print jobs regardless of being connected to a WiFi network, or connected to a VPN.

Modern design to fit every familys home Thoughtful and sustainable design to fit within families homes with neutral color options and made of over 45% recycled plastic.



HP ENVY Inspire will first launch with the 7900e series in the US. Additional models and markets to follow in 2022. Pricing and more information can be found at hp.com/envyprinters. About HP Inc.

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.



Jaclyn Montalvo, HP

[email protected]



www.hp.com/go/newsroom Copyright 2020 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.

Compared to the majority of competing in-class, A4 cartridge-based networked inkjet MFPS <$488 USD and <300 and monochrome laser printers <$149 USD and <150 and MFPs <$199 USD and <210. Print system defined as OEM printer used with only same-brand OEM cartridges. Criteria for the smartest printing system includes specific Wi-Fi connection resiliency features and security features, cloud-connected capabilities, features and scale of supplies subscription services and OEM print app functionality. Keypoint Intelligence April 2021 study commissioned by HP, based on research of OEM published information publicly available as of 3/24/2021. Market share as reported by IDC Q4 2020 Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker  Final Historical for North America and EMEA. For details, see www.keypointintelligence.com/HPPlusSmartest Instant Ink sign up required. Instant Ink not available in all countries. Subject to monthly page limit of plan selected. Must complete Instant Ink signup within 7 days of setting up the printer with the HP-recommended setup process as indicated in the instructions that came with your printer. Unless service is cancelled within the promotional period online at www.hpinstantink.com, a monthly service fee, based on the plan chosen, plus tax and overage fees will be charged to your credit/debit card. Customer will be charged for any overage fees and applicable taxes at the end of each month in the promotional period. Use of in-box ink or toner cartridge is included in period of offer. One offer redeemable per printer. Included months offer with Instant Ink subject to change after 4.30.2022. Offer cannot be redeemed for cash. Setup Offer may be combined with other offers; see terms and conditions of the other offer for more details. Requires a valid credit/debit card, an email address, and Internet connection to printer. See additional offer information available during online signup process. For service details, see www.hpinstantink.com. Compared to current HP home consumer printers Source: 2021-03 ENVY Inspire Research Report Compared to OEM printing apps for the majority of top-selling, network-capable inkjet/laser printers and all-in-ones for the home and office, priced =450 USD. Market share as reported by IDC Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker  Final Historical CYQ4 2020. Claim based on research of printer manufacturers print apps and Keypoint Intelligence hands-on testing and study commissioned by HP. For details, please see: keypointintelligence.com/HPSmartApp When printing through HP Smart app from a mobile device supporting P3 color gamut Requires printing through HP Smart app from a mobile phone Requires the HP Smart app download. For details on local printing requirements see www.hp.com/go/mobileprinting. Certain features/software are available in English language only, and differ between desktop and mobile applications. Subscription may be required; subscription may not be available in all countries. See details at www.hpsmart.com. Internet access required and must be purchased separately. HP account required for full functionality. List of supported operating systems available in app stores. Fax capabilities are for sending a fax only. After 2 years, monthly fee applies to continue advanced features with HP Smart Advance. HP Smart Advance is not available in all countries. For more information, see www.hpsmart.com. Flywire Global Consumer Survey Set to Soar: How Consumer Travel Plans Signal a Tourism Boom Requires HP+ activation at setup and Instant Ink registration. After 6 months, a monthly fee will be charged automatically unless cancelled. Utilizing technology in the HP+ system and compared to HP standard consumer printers without HP+. HP+ printers are ready when you are with improved connectivity utilizing Smart Driver and Print/Scan Doctor technology, more secure with Smart Security technology, more productive through HP Smart Advance features included for 2 years, and more sustainable by enabling Forest First printing and net-zero deforestation prints. Based on plan usage, Internet connection to eligible HP printer, valid credit/debit card, email address, and delivery service in your geographic area. Based on monthly subscription cost of HP Instant Ink 700-page plans without purchase of additional sets of pages compared to cost per page to print ISO/IEC 24711 pages on most in-class, traditional A4 color inkjet cartridge printers & MFPs using original standard capacity cartridges priced for: Australia <299 AUD; New Zealand <349 NZD; Canada <=399 CAD & United States <399 USD. Sale prices not considered for this study. HP Ink Advantage printers excluded due to non-standard hardware & supplies model. Buyers Lab July 2020 study commissioned by HP, based on publicly available information as of June 1, 2020. Printers selected by market share in IDC Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker - Final Historical 2020Q1. For details: www.keypointintelligence.com/HPInstantInk HP works collaboratively with our partners including WWF and Arbor Day Foundation to manage, restore, and protect forests in many countries around the world. With HP+, every print - regardless of paper brand  is addressed through HPs Forest Positive Framework to counteract risks of deforestation. HP brand paper is sourced only from certified responsibly managed forests or from recycled content. For other brands of paper, HP invests in forest restoration, protection or management projects in key regions sufficient to balance any paper used by HP+ customers that may not have been responsibly sourced. To learn more visit www.hp.com/forestfirst. This product works with devices capable of running the latest version of Chrome OS and has been certified to meet Google's compatibility standards. Google is not responsible for the operation of this product or its compliance with safety requirements. Chromebook and the Works With Chromebook badge are trademarks of Google LLC.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b5e84cfd-fd49-47b2-ad2d-3cbad3783118

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1d4fd014-a834-40b9-9f1b-a5e06be26195



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[October 26, 2021] Denodo Concludes Another Massively Successful Annual User Conference With 5,000 Worldwide Registrants Across North America, EMEA and APAC

Denodo, the leader in data virtualization, today announced that its annual global user conference, Denodo DataFest 2021, which was held in North America (NA), EMEA and APAC, attracted 5,000 worldwide registrants. While DataFest APAC and EMEA were held in a virtual format this year, DataFest NA was conducted in a hybrid mode, attracting hundreds of attendees online and in-person in New York. The attendees, made up of Denodo (News - Alert) customers, partners, and subject matter experts, discussed the future of data and analytics involving topics such as logical data fabric, cloud modernization, data mesh, AI/ML and more. Forrester (News - Alert) VP and Principal Analyst Michele Goetz kicked off the conference presenting the Total Economic Impact of Data Virtualization using Denodo Platform, while David Loshin, President of Knowledge Integrity at TDWI presented the importance of Logical Data Fabric for Hybrid Cloud. Click here to watch the full conference line up. "While we are not entirely over the pandemic yet, I was personally touched and thrilled to see the excitement among our customers and partners, both in-person and online who joined us to make this year's DataFest such a success," said Ravi Shankar, SVP and CMO at Denodo. "Our customers, partners, and internal subject matter experts presented and discussed topics such as why data lakehouse needs a logical architecture, application of advanced semantics in multi/hybrid cloud scenarios, the need for performance acceleration for advanced analytics and data cience, to name a few. It was great to see the strength of our customers' use cases as the Innovation Award polling saw stiff competition among the finalists."



Winners and Finalists of Denodo Data Innovation Awards 2021 include: North America - Winner Ryan Fattini from City Furniture, for their Digitizing City Furniture's Business Model use case; finalist Jonathan Paul from Fifth Third Bank, for their Digital Transformation and Regulatory Excellence use case.

APAC - Winner Shaurya Bhasin from GeTS, for their Logical Data Fabric use case; finalist Wilbertus Darmadi from Toyota Astra Motor, for their Data Catalog based Self-Service use case.

EMEA - Winner Jan Swanepoel from NedBank, for their Largest Data Warehouse on the Planet use case; finalist, Luis Guadarrama from Engie for their data-driven initiatives with Logical Data Fabric use case. "Winning this year's Data Innovation Award for the APAC region was a great validation of the strength of our data virtualization use cases and the results we were able to achieve," said Shaurya Bhasin, Data Platform Lead at GeTS. "In building our unified data platform we were able to offer secure and well governed data access in a multi-cloud scenario. The Denodo Platform is as an important piece of the architecture and I was happy to share our story with the DataFest audience and perhaps it resonated with the audience!"

While Denodo customers played a pivotal role in sharing their business and technical use cases with the audience, it was the amazing network of Denodo Partners which included Accenture, Advanced Analytic (News - Alert) Service, Axians, BDO (SimplicityBI), BITanium, CIO Academy Asia (CIOAA), Cognizant, Cyberionix, Dai Nippon Printing, DAMA, Devfacto, EY, Hitachi Solutions, Indium Software, Insight Technology, iOCO, IQZ Systems, JEMS, Mainline, MDI (News - Alert) Novare Technologies, Nippon Systemware, NS Solutions, Nucleus Software, Q Perior, Servian, Sirius, UST, Wipro and Zeal that made an event of this scale possible. Denodo's technology partner AWS took part in a Fireside chat to discuss the important of Logical Data Fabric for successful cloud migration. Please tweet: #datavirtualization leader Denodo announce the winners of 4th annal Data Innovation Awards During #DataFest 2021. Audience (News - Alert) vote @CityFurniture, @CLGeTS and @Nedbank for the most innovative use cases About Denodo Denodo is the leader in data virtualization providing agile, high performance data integration, data abstraction, and real-time data services across the broadest range of enterprise, cloud, big data, and unstructured data sources at half the cost of traditional approaches. Denodo's customers across every major industry have gained significant business agility and ROI by enabling faster and easier access to unified business information for agile BI, big data analytics, Web, cloud integration, single-view applications, and enterprise data services. Denodo is well-funded, profitable, and privately held. For more information, visit http://www.denodo.com or call +1 877 556 2531 / +44 (0) 20 7869 8053. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005771/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Lightpath Announces Entrance into Princeton, New Jersey Connectivity Market

NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Lightpath , an all-fiber, infrastructure-based connectivity provider that is revolutionizing how organizations connect to their digital destinations, today announced its entrance into the connectivity market in Princeton, NJ by way of a new, 54-mile build of its all-fiber network. The expansion of Lightpath's New Jersey infrastructure will bring its connectivity services to more than 400 Princeton-area enterprises, educators, and government groups. Additionally, Lightpath will provide connectivity to four area data centers, on top of the more than 75 data centers and cloud providers that are already on its network. "Our entrance into the Princeton market enhances the Lightpath network in a region that is helping to fuel the digital economy. This area is rich with both technology and traditional enterprise-level business, pharmaceutical companies, an Ivy League research university, and a vibrant start-up culture," stated Doug Dalissandro, Chief Revenue Officer for Lightpath. The entrance into the Princeton market brings the Lightpath all-fiber network to one of the densest regions of New Jersey, while also connecting the new market to the entire Lightpath network of over 18,000 route miles and more than 12,000 service locations. The project also builds on several previously announced initiatives in recent months, including Lightpath's entrance into markets in Boston, MA and Queens NY.



Princeton area customers gain access to the entire Lightpath network, including access to all major cloud providers, over 75 data centers, and 7 Northeast cable landings stations. Customers will have access to entire Lightpath product portfolio of all-fiber solutions, including Optical Transport (up to 800 Gbps), Ethernet (to 10 Gbps), Internet Access (to 100 Gbps), Private Networks, Dark Fiber, SD-WAN, Voice, Security Solutions, and other Managed Services. Follow Lightpath on LinkedIn and Twitter . For more information, visit www.lightpathfiber.com .

About Lightpath Lightpath is revolutionizing how customers connect to their digital destinations by combining our next-generation network with our next-generation customer service. Lightpath's advanced fiber-optic network offers a comprehensive portfolio of custom-engineered connectivity solutions with unparalleled performance, reliability, and security. Our consultative customer service means we work with you to design, deliver, and support the solution for your unique needs, faster and more easily than ever before. For over 30 years, thousands of enterprises, governments, and educators have trusted Lightpath to power their organization's innovation. Altice USA (NYSE: ATUS) owns a 50.01% controlling interest in Lightpath and Morgan Stanley Infrastructure Partners (MSIP) owns 49.99% of the Company. Learn how Lightpath can connect you to your digital destinations: www.lightpathfiber.com For media inquiries: JSA for Lightpath

1-866-695-3629 ext. 13

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[October 26, 2021] AttackIQ Academy Named CISO Choice Award Winner in Security Education & Training Category

AttackIQ, the leading independent vendor of Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) systems, today announced it has been named the winner in the CISO Choice Awards' "Security Education & Training" category for its AttackIQ Academy. AttackIQ Academy was launched in April 2020 to offer entry-level and advanced cybersecurity training with a modularized curriculum and hands-on cyberrange labs for realistic exercises. Practice scenarios give students the skills to recognize threats, understand attackers' methods and quickly close potential gaps. Courses and learning paths are offered at no charge for the greater good of the cybersecurity community and participants are eligible for (ISC)2 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits following completion of the curriculum. Today, AttackIQ Academy has grown to 23,000 students in 180 countries. "The pressure on CISOs has never been greater, with adversaries ramping up attacks while security resources are constrained due to budget pressures in response to COVID-19," said Brett Galloway (News - Alert), CEO of AttackIQ. "We launched AttackIQ Academy as a free cybersecurity education resource with the goal of helping practitioners take control of risk by moving to a threat-informed defense. We are honored to see our commitment to giving back to the cybersecurity community recognized with this award." "It was an extremely competitive playing field with a record number of submissions," said Amy Rhodes, CEO of CISOs Connect. "It was exciting to hear the judges, who live and breathe security, share their experiences and discuss with one another the wealth of technologies that are on the market or coming to the market. Nothing can replace the real-word insights that the CISO judges bring to the table when deciding on the top vendors." AttackIQ Academy, which is part of the Informed Defender Community, includes foundational, intermediate, and advanced courses in operationalizing MITRE ATT&CK, Uniting Threat and Risk Management with NIST 800-53 and ATT&CK, Purple Teaming, Breach and Attack Simulation, and more. AttackIQ Grows Roster of Expert Instructors With growing demand for cybersecurity education globally, AttackIQ has added to its roster of experienced instructors. The company recently added three new experts, doubling its team of instructors: Beverly Benson, AttackIQ Cybersecurity Education Manager, based in the Northeast of the United States. With a passion for increasing the representation of women and minorities in cybersecurity, Beverly sits as National Chair on the Professional Development Committee for Cyversity. She holds two Master's Degrees in Cyber Security Management and Computer Information Technology and has more than 15 years of technology experience.

Andrew Costis , AttackIQ Senior Cyber Threat Consultant, based in the United Kingdom. He holds more than 20 years of industry experience with recent roles in threat research and reverse engineering malware, tracking ransomware campaigns, incident response, and malware hunting. Andrew is a regular industry speaker at events such as Black Hat, B-Sides, CyberRisk Alliance, SecurityWeekly, ITPro, and BrightTalk.

, AttackIQ Senior Cyber Threat Consultant, based in the United Kingdom. He holds more than 20 years of industry experience with recent roles in threat research and reverse engineering malware, tracking ransomware campaigns, incident response, and malware hunting. Andrew is a regular industry speaker at events such as Black Hat, B-Sides, CyberRisk Alliance, SecurityWeekly, ITPro, and BrightTalk. Matias Altman, AttackIQ Senior Security Engineer, based in the Southeast of the United States. He has extensive experience in automating and amplifying intelligence gathered from the MITRE ATT&CK Framework. He is also an expert in cloud security, cloud architecture (AWS and Azure).



New CISO and Practitioner Classes Last week, AttackIQ Academy introduced its first class in a series of security leader level content: Strategic Cybersecurity Management. Taught by guest technology and security experts Dr. Art Langer and Robert Duncan, this class shares insights on how to build, deliver and implement a cybersecurity strategy based on threat intelligence; obtain executive and board-level consensus around cybersecurity strategies; think like an adversary and develop a playbook for cybersecurity readiness and resilience; and evolve the security leadership role from one perceived as technical to a business-facing, strategic role.

For practitioners, AttackIQ Academy recently released new courses on gap analysis using breach and attack simulation, how to use ATT&CK workbench, and how to map the AWS security stack to the ATT&CK framework. In the coming weeks, students will learn more on the latest MITRE ATT&CK advancements, plus learn how to implement AttackIQ blueprints into their security practice. To learn more about free classes and registration, visit: https://academy.attackiq.com/. About AttackIQ AttackIQ, the leading independent vendor of breach and attack simulation solutions, built the industry's first Security Optimization Platform for continuous security control validation and improving security program effectiveness and efficiency. AttackIQ is trusted by leading organizations worldwide to plan security improvements and verify that cyberdefenses work as expected, aligned with the MITRE ATT&CK framework. The Company is committed to giving back to the cybersecurity community through its free award-winning AttackIQ Academy, open Preactive Security Exchange, and partnership with MITRE Engenuity's Center for Threat-Informed Defense. For more information, visit www.attackiq.com. Follow AttackIQ on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube. About Security Current and CISOs Connect Security Current improves the way security, privacy and risk executives collaborate to protect their organizations and their information. Its CISO-driven proprietary content and events provide insight, actionable advice and analysis giving executives the latest information to make knowledgeable decisions. Its invitation-only CISOs Connect community https://cisosconnect.com allows for CISOs to communicate with each other and share knowledge and expertise with their peers with its proprietary research, group discussion, online and in person exclusive events. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005554/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Northern Virginia Technology Council Names Tracepoint "Cyber Startup of the Year"

Tracepoint, a Booz Allen Hamilton (News - Alert) (NYSE: BAH) company, was selected as Cyber Startup of the Year by the Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) at the 6th annual Capital Cybersecurity Summit & Capital Cyber Awards. NVTC's Capital Cyber Awards celebrate the Washington metro area's best companies and individuals in cybersecurity, and winners are selected based on their exceptional dedication, vision, innovation, and contribution to the greater region's cybersecurity industry. Co-founded in December 2019 by Chris Salsberry, Brett Anderson, and Rob Driscoll and based in Fredericksburg, Va., Tracepoint is a recognized leader in Digital Forensics and Incident Response (DFIR), remediation, and cyber risk and resilience management. Tracepoint partners with cyber insurance carriers, lawyers, brokers, and their clients respond to cyber incidents, delivering advanced cyber defense solutions to help clients defend against a growing number of debilitating cyber threats. "I'm exceptionally proud of our team, the relationships they forge with clients and quality of work we deliver against the most significant cyberattacks," said Chris Salsberry, Tracepoint's chief executive officer. In September 2021, Booz Allen announced that it completed the acquisition of Tracepoint after making an initial strategic investment in December 2020. Booz Allen's cyberecurity portfolio includes many Fortune 100 and Global 2000 clients, as well as nearly every U.S. defense and federal agency, and the firm's commercial business delivers advanced cyber services for clients across multiple industries, including financial services, health and life sciences, energy, transportation, and manufacturing.



"Under Chris Salsberry's leadership, Tracepoint grew quickly to become a DFIR market leader, and I'm thrilled that the NVTC has recognized Tracepoint's accomplishments," said Bill Phelps, executive vice president and leader of Booz Allen's commercial business. "Tracepoint is a key component to our long-term plans and this recognition today from the NVTC only reaffirms my excitement about the company today and what we can accomplish together in the future." About Booz Allen Hamilton

For more than 100 years, military, government, and business leaders have turned to Booz Allen Hamilton to solve their most complex problems. As a consulting firm with experts in analytics, digital solutions, engineering, and cyber, we help organizations transform. We are a key partner on some of the most innovative programs for governments worldwide and trusted by its most sensitive agencies. We work shoulder-to-shoulder with clients, using a mission-first approach to choose the right strategy and technology to help them realize their vision.

With global headquarters in McLean, Virginia, our firm employs approximately 28,600 people globally as of June 30, 2021, and had revenue of $7.9 billion for the 12 months ended March 31, 2021. To learn more, visit www.boozallen.com. (NYSE: BAH) About Tracepoint

Tracepoint specializes in digital forensics and incident response with a comprehensive portfolio of pre- and post-breach services. Tracepoint's team of experts has decades of experience helping organizations address cyber incidents, including ransomware, phishing, business email compromise, payment card incidents, and sophisticated trojan and malware attacks. Having investigated some of the most complex and disruptive security incidents, Tracepoint's deep understanding of emerging threats proactively helps its clients improve their security posture and reduce the risk of falling victim to a costly cyber-attack. BAHPR-CO View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005740/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Sprout Social Analyzes Emerging Trends Impacting Retailers this Holiday Shopping Season

CHICAGO, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Social media and retail are two rapidly evolving and increasingly intertwined industries, each with a shared goal of trying to reach consumers. Today Sprout Social , an industry-leading provider of cloud-based social media management software, released new insights on the most disruptive trends affecting retailers and brands this holiday season. Based on proprietary social media conversation data, the analysis provides guidance for brands looking to leverage social media to make the most of the peak retail season.

The in-store experience is back, but its not what you expect

The pandemic further accelerated the shift to online shopping, and retailers must reimagine their in-store experience to both cater to those shifts and drive in-person experiences. Pop-ups like Nordstroms [email protected] shops or smaller format stores like Bloomingdales new Bloomies concept not only create immediacy and exclusivity for the in-person experience, they spur online conversation and extend the retailers reach. Consumers show increased interest in these experiences, with more than 1.26 million Twitter conversations related to pop-up stores since June 1*, a 42% uptick in conversations compared to the first half of 2021, according to Sprout Social listening data. As important as it is to connect with consumers in person, brands that focus on how physical and digital storefronts complement each other will also see increased returns. According to Sprout Socials 2021 Index , after following a brand on social media, 86% of consumers will visit their physical retail store and 90% will buy from them. While consumers become more comfortable with going back to stores, retailers are getting more creative in how they deliver relevant and personalized experiences to keep shoppers excited and coming back, said Jamie Gilpin, CMO, Sprout Social. But retailers wont be effective without a complementary online and social strategy. The bottom line is that social gets shoppers in the door, whether in-person or online, and provides another channel for retailers to engage with audiences and convert them into customers. Social commerce is the next frontier in e-commerce

Social media is becoming the epicenter of the entire customer experience, from initial discovery to final purchase. To keep up with the demand of holiday shoppers, brands will optimize their social platforms to be both their new storefront and cash register. In fact, 93% of executives believe businesses are increasingly moving e-commerce strategies to social media and 79% expect to use social media to sell products and services over the next three years, according to research from Sprout Social and The Harris Poll . This aligns with changing consumer habits, as more than one in three consumers (36%) have already used social media to purchase products or services from brands.



Social commerce has exploded recently, driven by major social media networks like TikTok, Pinterest and Facebook rolling out new commerce features and integrations in the past year, said Gilpin. Our data proves this trend isnt slowing down anytime soon, in fact, its only expected to increase more this year . Social commerce offers retailers and brands the opportunity to compete for growing e-commerce sales while building lasting customer relationships, setting them up for not only a successful holiday shopping season, but a successful year ahead. Younger consumers are setting the agenda for retail brands offerings

With a spending power of $143 billion that is only expected to rise, Millennials and Gen Z hold increasing influence on the retail market and are shaping the latest trends, evident by the growing second-hand shopping market, which is projected to reach $77 billion by 2025 . Social media conversation data from Sprout Social about second-hand clothing and thrift shopping supports this notion, marked by a 42% increase in conversations since September 12 compared to the previous six-week period**.

In response to the resurgence of these secondhand shopping trends driven by up-and-coming generations, retail brands like Madewell and Urban Outfitters are adapting their offerings. For example, Urban Outfitters recently launched its own resale marketplace called Nuuly Thrift. In the week following its launch, Twitter conversations mentioning the retailer increased by 67%, with 931% more engagements than the previous week and a 10% boost in positive sentiment, according to new social media conversation analysis from Sprout Social***. The rise in popularity of small-scale pop-up shops and second-hand shopping are just a few examples of the domino effect social media has on demand for products or shifts in shopping trends, said Gilpin. What is even more compelling is how social has evolved into a powerful source for business intelligence. Social data offers brands a window into consumer behavior and sentiment, and can help them determine how to engage in viral conversations or maximize on trends before they crest. Retailers who leverage social data to understand these cultural and generational nuances will venture into the holiday season with a strong competitive advantage. Find more information on what retailers can expect this holiday season here . And for social media conversation data on key holiday shopping topics, follow Sprout Social on Twitter for regular updates. About Sprout Social

Sprout Social offers deep social media listening and analytics, social management, customer care, commerce and advocacy solutions to more than 30,000 brands and agencies worldwide. Sprouts unified platform integrates the power of social throughout every aspect of a business and enables social leaders at every level to extract valuable data and insights that drive their business forward. Headquartered in Chicago, Sprout operates across major social media networks, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, YouTube and LinkedIn. Learn more at sproutsocial.com. *Sprout Social data includes mentions on Twitter from June 1, 2021 - October 24, 2021 compared to January 6 - May 31, 2021, with search terms including: ((Pop-up store OR pop-up retail OR pop-up shops OR pop up shops OR pop up retail OR pop up store OR (pop up OR pop-up OR retail OR shop OR store)) **Sprout Social data includes mentions on Twitter from September 12, 2021 - October 24, 2021 compared to July 31, 2021 - September 11, 2021, with search terms including: ((Secondhand shopping OR thrift store OR second-hand clothes OR pre-owned clothes OR thrifting) OR (clothes OR clothing OR shopping AND second hand OR second-hand OR used OR thrift)) ***Sprout Social data includes mentions on Twitter from October 12-19, 2021 compared to October 4-11, 2021, with search terms including: ((Urban outfitters OR #urbanoutfitters OR @urbanoutfitters)) Contact: Media

Kaitlyn Gronek

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (773) 904-9674 Investors

Jason Rechel

Twitter: @SproutSocialIR

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (312) 528-9166



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[October 26, 2021] Naprotek, A Portfolio Company of Edgewater Capital Partners, Acquires SemiGen

LONDONDERRY, N.H., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Naprotek, LLC, a leading provider of high-reliability, quick-turn electronics manufacturing, has completed the acquisition of SemiGen, Inc., a privately held company based in Londonderry, New Hampshire. This increases Naprotek's capabilities to include advanced RF/Microwave products, assembly, and test services, and expands our reach across the United States. Founded in 2009, SemiGen provides products and services to the RF/Microwave community across markets including Defense, SATCOM, Space, and Advanced Communications. Their products include passive and active semiconductor components ranging from attenuators, capacitors, diodes, filters, and resistors to complex thin film circuits. Their manufacturing services span from RF/Microwave and PCB assembly to performance testing and in-house ion beam foundry. "We are excited to expand Naprotek's capabilities and geographical reach with highly engineered products and services from SemiGen," said Daniel Everitt, President and CEO of Naprotek. "SemiGen brings deep technical expertise in RF/Microwave technologies aligning perfectly with Naprotek's core offering and the sum of our teams is truly greater than its parts. Our customers may now leverage full-service offerings across RF/Microwave microelectronics, SMT, hybrid assembly, and semiconductor products. This is a very important step in our growth strategy and was meaningfully informed by our customers' feedback and technology roadmaps." Tim Filteau, President of SemiGen, commented; "I'm excited to work with the Naprotek team and to continue to lead SemiGen. Naprotek and SemiGen together offer a unique combination of technical skills, products, manufacturing services,and technology solutions. This acquisition will enhance growth and will enable innovation for our customers."



Naprotek, which was acquired by Edgewater Capital Partners in December 2020, is strategically growing its capabilities in high-quality, technically differentiated electronic technology solutions to better serve its customers and their high-reliability applications. Naprotek's sophisticated and rapid engineering change management process, commitment to quality, and personalized customer service are essential elements when time-to-market is critical. "We are thrilled to welcome SemiGen and its team into the Naprotek platform and broader Edgewater portfolio of companies. We plan to continue to add additional differentiated technology capabilities to the Naprotek platform to better service our customers within the high-reliability markets," commented Pete Ostergard, Partner with Edgewater.

About Naprotek

Naprotek is an electronic technology solutions company and a leading provider of quick turn PCBA, design for manufacturability, system integration, and testing services for high-reliability applications serving the Defense, Space, Medical, and Semi-Cap Equipment markets. Since 1995, Naprotek has been dedicated to delivering innovative advanced technologies through superior quality and workmanship for their customers' products. Naprotek is certified to AS9100D, ISO 13485:2016, ISO 9001:2015, IPC-A-610, IPC-J-STD-001, IPC-J-STD-001/Space Addendum, IPC-7711/7721, and ITAR registered. For more information about Naprotek, visit www.naprotek.com. Sales Inquiries, (408) 830-5000, [email protected] About Edgewater Capital Partners

Edgewater Capital Partners, headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, is a sector focused private equity firm investing in lower middle-market performance materials and services businesses. Edgewater has extensive experience and expertise in the specialty industrials, advanced materials, specialty chemicals, and life sciences sectors. Twenty years of industry-specific investing has enabled the firm to develop a deep understanding of the complexities and nuances common to these businesses. The Edgewater Difference is summarized by our three foundational pillars: deep sector expertise, Midwestern values and culture, and growth-enabling philosophy. For more information on Edgewater Capital Partners, visit www.edgewatercapital.com. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/naprotek-a-portfolio-company-of-edgewater-capital-partners-acquires-semigen-301408749.html SOURCE Naprotek LLC

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[October 26, 2021] Todos Medical to Present at the Benzinga Global Small Cap Conference

New York, NY, and Tel Aviv, ISRAEL, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via NewMediaWire -- Todos Medical, Ltd. (Todos Medical) (OTCQB: TOMDF), a comprehensive medical diagnostics and related solutions company, today announced that its CEO Gerald Commissiong will be presenting a corporate overview at the Benzinga Global Small Cap Conference which is being held virtually on October 27-28, 2021. The event bridges the gap between small cap companies, investors and traders.

SESSION DETAILS WHAT: October Small Cap Conference - Todos Medical WHEN: 1:55 PM/ET - October 28 WHERE: FREE ticket at https://www.benzinga.com/events/small-cap/ With the upcoming interim data read out expected this quarter from our ongoing Phase 2 clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of Tollovir in treating hospitalized COVID-19 patients currently ongoing in Israel, conducted together with our joint venture partners NLC Pharma, we are very excited about what the near-term future holds for Todos Medical, said Gerald E. Commissiong, President & CEO of Todos Medical. Tollovir is an Mpro (Main protease, 3CL protease or 3CLpro) inhibitor that has high binding affinity to the Mpro receptor, low cross reactivity with other receptors in the human body, as well as strong anti-cytokine activity that potentially makes it an ideal therapeutic candidate for the treatment of COVID-19 at all stages of disease from prevention to late-stage hospitalization. With the recent publication in Nature Neuroscience of key data identifying for the first time that Mpro is potentially the main driver of brain-related COVID-19 symptoms such as Brain Fog and memory loss, and emerging evidence that Mpro downregulates immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection in the brain and elsewhere in peripheral vascular tissues that could potentially explain the diversity of immune response, we believe it is now becomin more important than ever to focus on the development of Tollovir as a potentially game-changing treatment for COVID-19 patients.



For more information, please visit www.todosmedical.com . For more information on the Companys CLIA/CAP certified lab Provista Diagnostics, Inc. please visit www.provistadx.com . About Todos Medical Ltd.

Founded in Rehovot, Israel with offices in New York City, Todos Medical Ltd. (OTCQB: TOMDF) engineers life-saving diagnostic solutions for the early detection of a variety of cancers. In 2021, Todos completed the acquisition of U.S.-based medical diagnostics company Provista Diagnostics, Inc. to gain rights to its Alpharetta, Georgia-based CLIA/CAP certified lab currently performing PCR COVID testing and Provista's proprietary commercial-stage Videssa breast cancer blood test. The Company's state-of-the-art and patented Todos Biochemical Infrared Analyses (TBIA) is a proprietary cancer-screening technology using peripheral blood analysis that deploys deep examination into cancer's influence on the immune system, looking for biochemical changes in blood mononuclear cells and plasma. Todos' two internally-developed cancer-screening tests, TMB-1 and TMB-2, have received a CE mark in Europe. Todos is focused on the commercialization of Videssa and will bring the TBIA tests to market thereafter. Todos has entered into a joint venture with NLC Pharma targeting diagnostic and testing solutions to address the COVID-19 pandemic. The Joint-Venture is pursuing the development of diagnostic tests targeting the 3CL protease, as well as 3CL protease inhibitors that target a fundamental reproductive mechanism of coronaviruses. The Companys proprietary therapeutic candidate Tollovir is currently in a Phase 2 clinical trial to treat hospitalized COVID-19 patients in Israel, and is preparing to initiate Phase 2/3 clinical trials for both hospitalized and non-hospitalized patients in Israel. Todos is also developing blood tests for the early detection of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease. The Lymphocyte Proliferation Test (LymPro Test) is a diagnostic blood test that determines the ability of peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) and monocytes to withstand an exogenous mitogenic stimulation that induces them to enter the cell cycle. It is believed that certain diseases, most notably Alzheimer's disease, are the result of compromised cellular machinery that leads to aberrant cell cycle re-entry by neurons, which then leads to apoptosis. LymPro is unique in the use of peripheral blood lymphocytes as a surrogate for neuronal cell function, suggesting a common relationship between PBLs and neurons in the brain. Todos is also distributing certain (COVID-19) testing materials and supplies to CLIA-certified labs in the United States. The products cover multiple suppliers of PCR testing kits, extraction kits, automation materials and supplies, as well as COVID-19 antibody and antigen testing kits. For more information, please visit https://www.todosmedical.com/ . Forward-looking Statements Certain statements contained in this press release may constitute forward-looking statements. For example, forward-looking statements are used when discussing our expected clinical development programs and clinical trials. These forward-looking statements are based only on current expectations of management, and are subject to significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, including the risks and uncertainties related to the progress, timing, cost, and results of clinical trials and product development programs; difficulties or delays in obtaining regulatory approval or patent protection for product candidates; competition from other biotechnology companies; and our ability to obtain additional funding required to conduct our research, development and commercialization activities. In addition, the following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements: changes in technology and market requirements; delays or obstacles in launching our clinical trials; changes in legislation; inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications; lack of validation of our technology as we progress further and lack of acceptance of our methods by the scientific community; inability to retain or attract key employees whose knowledge is essential to the development of our products; unforeseen scientific difficulties that may develop with our process; greater cost of final product than anticipated; loss of market share and pressure on pricing resulting from competition; and laboratory results that do not translate to equally good results in real settings, all of which could cause the actual results or performance to differ materially from those contemplated in such forward-looking statements. Except as otherwise required by law, Todos Medical does not undertake any obligation to publicly release any revisions to these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting Todos Medical, please refer to its reports filed from time to time with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Todos Corporate and Investor Contact: Richard Galterio Todos Medical 732-642-7770 [email protected]



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[October 26, 2021] Novum Underwriting Partners Selects Sure MGA Enterprise by Insurity to Rapidly Onboard New Programs

Insurity, a leading provider of cloud-based software for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs, today announced that Novum Underwriting Partners has implemented Sure MGA Enterprise by Insurity for its new Lumber Pro program. Through its recent acquisition of Instec, Insurity provides market-leading software for insurance programs and complex commercial insurance. This selection enables Novum, a specialty MGA and wholesale brokerage, to provide their customers with enhanced specialty commercial insurance programs. While the program business is highly profitable, many P&C carriers compete annually to retain each risk group. The need to move quickly is accelerating as new risks - such as cyber, shared economy, and the gig economy - dynamically emerge and create a need for coverage. Insurity's Sure MGA Enterprise addresses these unique needs of the program business and enables MGAs to rapidly onboard new programs. After evaluating a wide range of systems, Novum chose Sure MGA Enterprise because of Insurity's breadth of experience across relevant classes of business, ability to hel automate regulatory compliance, and out-of-the-box bureau content. These features enable Novum to rate, quote, and issue policies faster than competitors.



"Once we had our carrier lined up, we needed a system that was fast, efficient, and could get us up and running quickly," said Don Sellars, President at Novum Underwriting Partners. "Insurity's software provided us with that. Their out-of-the-box bureau content and knowledge of the program space made sure we could hit the ground running with the content we needed." The project launched in the fall of 2020 and wrapped up in spring of 2021, enabling Novum to enter a new lumber market with Sure MGA Enterprise in less than a year. The implementation consisted of three lines of business over ten states.

"Time and time again, Insurity delivers on its core promises of empowering insurance organizations to capitalize on new opportunities quickly," said Sylvester Mathis, Chief Insurance Officer at Insurity. "While the program business is highly competitive, Insurity enables Novum to accelerate growth among new and emerging businesses with our intuitive program software." With the project complete, Novum plans to implement additional programs and expand its relationship with Insurity. To learn more about how Sure MGA Enterprise can benefit your business, please reach out to Laura Krause, [email protected]. About Insurity Insurity is a leading provider of cloud-based software and analytics for insurance carriers, brokers, and MGAs. Insurity is trusted by 15 of the top 25 P&C Carriers in the US and has over 250 cloud-based deployments. Through its best-in-class digital platform and with unrivaled industry experience and thought leadership, Insurity is uniquely positioned to deliver exceptional value, empowering customers to focus on their core businesses, optimize their operations, and provide superior policyholder experiences. Insurity is a portfolio company of GI Partners. For more information, visit www.insurity.com. About Novum Underwriting Partners Novum was created to bridge the gap between digital agents and traditional wholesalers. We recognized a need in the market to offer rapid, qualified quotes but with the understanding that you cannot replace the personal touch. Our industry leading technology gives underwriters the ability to directly communicate with agents instantly after submitting a quote on our proprietary Novum Online system. Our IT specialists have experience building comprehensive platforms for not one, but multiple Fortune 500 insurance carriers. This expertise allowed them to build a system tailored to the needs of agents. We offer underwriting expertise for tough to place risks, which provides Novum with pricing and coverage influence with carrier partners, while never losing sight of the importance of underwriting profitability. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005856/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Guild Mortgage Introduces New Medical Professional Mortgage Program to Help Doctors Purchase Their First Home

Guild Mortgage (NYSE: GHLD), a rapidly growing mortgage lending company originating and servicing residential loans since 1960, has introduced a new mortgage option designed to make it easier for medical professionals to buy their first home. Under the Guild program, qualified medical professionals, including those who have just graduated from medical school, can qualify for a home loan with up to 100% financing, no required mortgage insurance, and the ability to exclude student debt from their debt-to-income ratio. The program offers loans up to $850,000. "At Guild, we're always looking for new ways to make a difference for first-time homebuyers, often with niche mortgage options and initiatives," said Mary Ann McGarry, CEO. "While medical professionals have always been considered heroes, the pandemic helped everyone become more aware of just how much those in medical professions sacrifice. Guild wanted to do its part to help those who have invested so many years of their lives in preparing to serve others and save lives. Our new program makes homeownership affordable and achievable at the earliest stages of their careers, so they don't have to wait to buy a home." Erin Watts, Guild's vice president of product strategy, said the initiative will provide more options to those in the medical field who may not have qualified for a traditional loan because of student debt or lack of funds for a down payment. "With this program, Guild is creating a path to homeownership that meets the specific needs of medical professionls of all types," she said. "No matter the discipline or specialty, one thing all these medical professionals have in common is the large investment required to get started in their careers. Guild understands that student debt can make it tough for new medical professionals to qualify for traditional mortgages. With this program, no down payment is required, and student debt is completely removed from the equation. It's Guild's way of saying thank you to the medical community."



Medical professionals eligible for Guild's medical professional mortgage program include those working as a medical resident, medical doctor, medical fellow, chiropractor, pharmacist and doctors of dental medicine, ophthalmology, osteopathy, surgery, dental surgery, optometry, podiatric medicine, veterinary medicine and psychiatric medicine. A minimum credit score of 700 and a debt-to-income ratio of no more than 43% are required to qualify. To take advantage of this program, Watts says it is best for medical professionals to connect with a loan officer in a local Guild branch who will be able to confirm eligibility, answer questions and help with the application process. Proof of present or future employment must be supplied.

For more information, visit https://www.guildmortgage.com/get-started/products-services/medical-professional-mortgage/. All loans subject to underwriter approval. Terms and conditions apply, subject to change without notice. For more licensing information, please visit www.guildmortgage.com/licensing. Headquartered in San Diego, Guild Mortgage is a leading national lender with an established history of developing innovative pilot programs and specialized products in partnership with government organizations to help deliver the promise of home in every neighborhood and community it serves. Its loan professionals can serve the needs of any homebuyer, from helping first-time buyers achieve homeownership, often through government loan programs, to homebuyers looking for a jumbo loan. Guild also helps active duty and retired military personnel who qualify for VA loans with 100% financing and flexible qualifying standards. The company is consistently recognized for its impact in the communities it serves, commitment to customer service, strength in regulatory compliance, and workplace culture. About Guild Mortgage

Founded in 1960 when the modern U.S. mortgage industry was just forming, Guild Mortgage Company is a nationally recognized independent mortgage lender providing residential mortgage products and local in-house origination and servicing. Guild's collaborative culture and commitment to diversity and inclusion enable it to deliver a personalized experience for each customer. With more than 4,000 employees and over 200 retail branches, Guild has relationships with credit unions, community banks, and other financial institutions and services loans in 48 states and the District of Columbia. Guild's highly trained loan professionals are experienced in government-sponsored programs such as FHA, VA, USDA, down payment assistance programs and other specialized loan programs. Its shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol GHLD. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005623/en/

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[October 26, 2021] PTOP ANNOUNCES THE RESUBMISSION OF THE IMPROVED MOBICARD MOBILE APPS TO THE APPLE STORE AND GOOGLE PLAY

Cambridge, MA, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Peer To Peer Network a.k.a MobiCard Inc. (OTC PINK: PTOP) is happy to announce that on Tuesday 10/25/2021 we have resubmitted our Mobicard apps back to their respective app stores for review with the goal of being published and back in the stores again soon. The audit could take a couple of months, or it may be expedited and take only a few weeks. It is in the app stores hands now. PTOP MobiCard (otc: PTOP) (@freemobicard) / Twitter will be hosting a TwitterSpaces on this Thursday 10/28/21 at 7pm EST to address any questions, comments, concerns, or suggestions. This Thursday, PTOPs tech team will be hosting a TwitterSpaces at 7pm Eastern Standard Time to discuss the technical side of MobiCard. It will be hosted by our CTO Nicholis Santana, and he will be joined by our Principal Software Engineer/Solution Architect Jay Wallace. If you would like to join, follow this link: MobiCard (otc: PTOP) (@freemobicard) / Twitter or follow @freemobicard on Twitter. At the end of the TwitterSpaces, we will allow an open forum time for any suggestions or questions. For those interested in regular tech communications, you can follow the CTO on Twitter @NicholisSantana . Our mobile app was not in the AppStore due to the fact that our internal team had to resubmit the app to GooglePlay and Apple under MobiCards development accounts (it was previously submitted under our prior developer. Given the fact that Think Latitudes had submitted the applications under their own development account). Best practices as a third-party development contractor would have been to create all accounts under the MobiCard name and hand over the Administrative rights to the MobiCard executives upon completion, however this was not the case and has forced us into extra work. Since then, we have moved forward with our own Apple and GooglePlay development accounts and have resubmitted to the store with our new backend. Think Latitude took us out of the app stores, to our surprise, did not transfer over the apps as detailed in our contract as we had expected. Our internal team lead b Mr. CTO Nicholis Santana was shocked by their lack of cooperation but was up to the challenge to fix things for our shareholders. PTOP is exploring options on this matter.



Mr. Santana and Mr. along with Jay Wallace worked diligently to create an entirely new backend for the MobiCard application. After analyzing Think Latitudes code, we came to the realization that the backend would not support a large user base and it did not meet the standards of an enterprise application. The new backend incorporates a microservices architecture with application monitoring and metrics, load balancing, unit testing, failover, a development instance and a production instance, replicated database for development and production, as well as many more things to further build upon. We felt that it was imperative that we addressed the backend issues prior to moving forward stated CTO Santana.

Now that PTOP has completed the backend, Chairman & CEO Joshua Sodaitis has instructed the development team to move on to their next strategic objective : ; a completely new redesign. I want the new redesign to look better, be easier to use, and have a much friendlier user interaction. As far as I am concerned, we never got out of beta testing of the MobiCard App. Therefore, I sought out more qualified talent to get the BEST product possible for MobiCard and our shareholders, declared CEO Mr. Sodaitis. Currently, the application will run with our backend and Think Latitudes UI/UX. Our next update will incorporate the new UI/UX that we have shared snapshots of on our twitter pages. We are the 1st digital business card company with mobile apps. MobiCard is the only app that gives proprietary solutions and has data analytics. Our competitors have to be physically close to someone to share their card with them with outdated web applications like dinosaurs. Our card allows people to share their card over a zoom call, or by text, email, verbally over the phone, 6 feet apart, or even 10,000 miles away. Once we have our cards back into the store the upside potential is tremendous. MobiCard is by far the most effective digital business card out there, and we look forward to demonstrating that again. The best time in my opinion to invest in a company is right before it starts to grow. There has never been a better time to get involved with PTOP than there is now. Stay tuned as there are many more positive things to come, concluded Chairman & CEO Joshua Sodaitis. Contact Info: Joshua Sodaitis, Chairman & CEO MobiCard, Inc.

45 Prospect Street Cambridge, MA 02139

Phone: 1-617-651-2460

Email: [email protected] ABOUT: Peer to Peer Network aka MobiCard is the 1st of its kind digital contact/business card. It will greatly facilitate the ability of individuals and businesses to share information and more effectively expand their visibility and brand awareness. MobiCard is a combination of powerful mobile apps and desktop apps with wide-ranging capabilities, including linking video's, user websites, all forms of contact information, and all of each user's social media links into one consolidated source. It is more than just a digital business card; it's a "dynamic digital footprint." A subscriber can custom create their business card to include a company logo, profile photo, contact details, website, audio messaging, social media links and multimedia content. The platform sharing and alert system enables users to share their card via text/SMS, e-mail, and global social media sites including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc.. The system provides the user instant text alerts when their card is opened or shared to third-party referrals all while building an invaluable database of contact leads. Safe Harbor Statement: This release includes 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. The Company invokes the protections of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements regarding our expected future financial position, results of operations, cash flows, financing plans, business strategies, products and services, competitive positions, growth opportunities, plans and objectives of management for future operations, as well as statements that include words such as "anticipate," "if," "believe," "plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "could," "should," "will," and other similar expressions are forward-looking statements. All forward-looking statements involve risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond our control, which may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to differ materially from anticipated results, performance, or achievements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements include those set forth in our filings at www.sec.gov. The company is no longer a fully reporting SEC filing company. We are under no obligation to (and expressly disclaim any such obligation to) update or alter our forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.



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[October 26, 2021] UpperStage.Capital Acquires Canadian Cleantech Building Materials Leader Talius

UpperStage.Capital Inc. announces its acquisition of Talius, a British Columbia-headquartered cleantech building materials company. Talius has been Canada's premier supplier of high-end rollshutters and habitat screens for over forty years, and is UpperStage's first private equity acquisition. "After 20 years in cleantech and impact venture capital, developing a new hands-on investment model with our 8-person team has been a rewarding challenge," said UpperStage CEO Keith Gillard. "Talius represents a perfect example of our investment thesis: A bootstrapped company with world-class products, ready to compete globally, and seeking new leadership to rocket to the next level of success." Ken Shi, co-founder of the $5B venture capital firm 5Y Capital and one of UpperStage's earliest supporters, commented, "As a successful investor, I share UpperStage's vision of bringing Canadian companies to the global stage. As soon as I understood UpperStage's proprietary model, I really wanted to be part of their adventure." UpperStage COO Frank Christiaens added, "I am very excited to step in as Executive Chair of Talius. Talius rollshuttrs mitigate the severest impact of climate change while Talius Habitat Screens substantially reduce the CO 2 footprint of new and existing high rise residential or office buildings. UpperStage is building Talius into the next great Canadian cleantech success story."



ABOUT TALIUS Talius is a cleantech building materials company specializing in the manufacturing of solutions for shade, security, and storm protection. Designed to perform well in any climate and resilient enough to withstand forced entry, Talius products are the trusted choice to provide shade, security and storm protection for residential, commercial, and institutional clients. www.talius.com

ABOUT UPPERSTAGE.CAPITAL UpperStage.Capital is growth equity, for good: a buy-out investor combining ESG impact investment and operational experience to boost profitable businesses to their next level of success. Founded in 2021, UpperStage brings together experienced ESG impact investment professionals with proven operators, including five serial entrepreneurs. UpperStage has team members in Vancouver, Toronto, and Shenzhen, and acquires major stakes in profitable North American companies making ESG impact across Sustainability, Wellness, and Community. www.upperstage.capital View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005259/en/

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[October 26, 2021] STOPit Solutions Partners with Crisis Text Line to Provide 24/7 Mental Health & Crisis Support to Students and Employees Nationwide

HOLMDEL, N.J., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- STOPit Solutions, a pioneer in safety and wellness solutions that create healthier places to learn, work, and live, today announced a partnership and launched the integration of Crisis Text Line into its Anonymous Reporting System (ARS) platform. This integration creates a comprehensive safety solution for individuals nationwide to help themselves, using Crisis Text Line, and to help others, using ARS. STOPit's ARS allows individuals to anonymously report safety, misconduct, or compliance concerns to help others and now can connect them through SMS messaging with trained volunteer Crisis Counselors from Crisis Text Line to receive help for themselves directly. Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7, high-quality anonymous text-based mental health support and crisis intervention by empowering a community of 41,000+ trained volunteers to support people in their moments of need. "Schools and workplaces are facing increasing mental health and wellness demands  especially since the start of the pandemic. They don't always have the resources and capacity to help students or employees in need of support," said Teresa Reuter, VP Incident Response Center at STOPit Solutions. "By integrating Crisis Text Line into our ARS platform, we can help millions of individuals help both themselves and others in one comprehensive solution 24/7/365." "Crisis Text Line supports students that may be experiencing or witnessing difficult emotions like bullying, negative peer pressure, or anxiety - if it's a crisis to them, it's a crisis to us," said Maggie Farah, Senior Business Development Director at Crisis Text Line. "We are proud to partner with Stop It Solutions o be a resource for students, whenever they are in need, no matter where they are.."



In addition to integration, the program will also include training on how to use Crisis Text Line and ongoing awareness campaigns via webinars, social media, and in-school student clubs and materials. Awareness and easy access are critical to ensuring that individuals know where to get help. These elements will help promote and foster usage. "Our partnership is built on one goal  get help to those most in need," said Reuter. "Based on early response, we believe we have filled a real need and value for schools and businesses that will have immediate results."

To learn more about the STOPit ARS and Crisis Text Line product integration through SMS, please: Call: 855-999-0932

Email: [email protected]

Visit the website: STOPit Anonymous Reporting System About STOPit Solutions: STOPit Solutions is the leading provider of safety & wellness solutions that help protect the physical, social, and emotional well-being of millions students, employees, and citizens across 8 countries. We achieve this by providing over 6,000 schools, workplaces, and communities award-winning technology-based solutions that help intervene on safety and well-being concerns, respond and mitigate critical incidents, and educate individuals on personal safety & wellness. As a result, we have been able to save and change the lives of millions while creating safer, healthier places to learn, work, and live. Visit stopitsolutions.com to learn more. About Crisis Text Line: Crisis Text Line has been providing free, 24/7, confidential support for people in crisis via text since 2013. Volunteer Crisis Counselors complete a 30-hour training and have 24/7 supervision by full-time Crisis Text Line mental health professionals. Text CRISIS to 741741 or text to 443-SUPPORT in WhatsApp to be connected to a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor in English. Text HOLA to 741741 or text to 442-AYUDAME in WhatsApp for Spanish. Crisis Text Line currently offers its service in the USA, UK, Canada, and Ireland. Learn more at www.crisistextline.org. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/stopit-solutions-partners-with-crisis-text-line-to-provide-247-mental-health--crisis-support-to-students-and-employees-nationwide-301408842.html SOURCE STOPit Solutions

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[October 26, 2021] Educator Patricia Trejo Receives the 2021 ALAS Scholarship Sponsored by Curriculum Associates

NORTH BILLERICA, Mass., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- The Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS), in partnership with Curriculum Associates, recently named Patricia Trejo, administrative program planner for Hispanic/Latino studies at the School District of Palm Beach County in Florida, as the 2021 ALAS Scholarship recipient. Trejo will receive $10,000 toward her doctoral degree in educational leadership through the scholarship, which helps support the professional advancement of Latino administrators. "We are thrilled at the opportunity Curriculum Associates provides by funding a $10,000 scholarship for an ALAS member," said Dr. Maria Armstrong, executive director of ALAS. "This year, Mrs. Patricia Trejo is a deserving recipient as she pursues her education in earning a doctoral degree. As a cofacilitator of our Linking Latina Leaders Network, she coordinates and promotes webinars that connect our ALAS members on topics of relevance and advocates for all children, with an emphasis on historically marginalized youth. ALAS is proud to have a member as dedicated to ALAS and her home state affiliate as she is." Trejo is an accomplished educator who graduated from the University of Florida with a bachelor's degree in political science and a minor degree in mass communications, and then from Nova Southeastern University with her master's degree in educational leadership. She has served in a number of roles throughout her 23-year career in public education, including teacher, learning team facilitator, assistant principal, and principal. Now, in her current role, Trejo helps infuse Latino history and culture into the district's curriculum and instruction. She also provides professional development to teachers and administrators districtwide, organizes an annual Hispanic/Latino Studies Summer Institute, and collaborates with the community to help provide mentors for Latino youth, foster parental involvement, and assist with community outreach. Additionally, Trejo currently serves as president for Florida ALAS, secretary for the state affiliates of ALAS, and a cofacilitator for the ALAS National Linking Latina Leaders Network. She is also a graduate of the Superintendents Leadership Academy Cohort X hosted by ALAS. "As a Mexican migrant child and English Language Learner raised by immigrant parents who were farmworkers, I never thought I would be on the path to earning a doctoral degree in educational leadership," said Trejo. "I am touched and grateful to have been awarded the scholarship from [ALAS] and Curriculum Associates and to receive the incredible support I have from both organizations. I am inspired and look forward to making a greater impact by helping develop equitable learning experiences for all students." "Patricia is a servant leader who has positively impacted so many students and educators throughout her years in public education," said Claudia Salinas, vice president of English learning at Curriculum Associates. "Alongside ALAS, we are proud to support her ongoing education and professional advancement as she takes this next step in her notable career." Trejo was presented the ALAS Scholarship Award during the ALAS National Annual Education Summit earlier this month. This is the seventh consecutive year Curriculum Associates has partnered with ALAS on the scholarship. To learn more about the ALAS Scholarship Awards, visit ALASEdu.org/About/17458-2/. About the Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents (ALAS)

ALAS is committed to providing a perspective to all aspiring school and district administrators including superintendents through programs, services, advocacy, and networks rooted in Latino experiences and culture. ALAS has nearly 8,000 members across 18 state affiliates, with several more states soon to be a part of the ALAS familia. Our vision, mission, and goal is to provide leadership at the national level that ensures every school in America effectively serves the educational needs of all students with an emphasis on Latino and other historically marginalized youth through continuous professional learning, policy advocacy, and networking to share practices of promise for our students and the communities where we serve. By the year 2026, Latino children will make up 30 percent of the school-age population. In the nation's largest statesCalifornia, Texas, Florida, and New York, all of whom are ALAS State AffiliatesLatinos already have reached that level. It is of vital interest to invest in the education of every child and the professional learning of all educators who serve Latino youth. About Curriculum Associates

Founded in 1969, Curriculum Associates, LLC designs research-based print and online instructional materials, screens and assessments, and data management tools. The company's products and outstanding customer service provide teachers and administrators with the resources necessary for teaching diverse student populations and fostering learning for all students.







Contact: Kati Elliott Charlotte Fixler

KEH Communications Curriculum Associates

(410) 975-9638 (978) 901-6066

[email protected] [email protected]

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/educator-patricia-trejo-receives-the-2021-alas-scholarship-sponsored-by-curriculum-associates-301408847.html SOURCE Curriculum Associates, LLC

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[October 26, 2021] Mars Wrigley and Bounteous Win the Acquia Engage Radical Innovators Award

Bounteous, a leading insights-driven digital experience consultancy and Acquia Global Partner, today announced its win alongside Mars Wrigley for the 2021 Acquia Engage Radical Innovators award. The Acquia Engage Awards recognize world-class digital experiences that organizations are building with the Acquia Open Digital Experience Platform (DXP). With over 100 award submissions this year, the Bounteous and Mars Wrigley partnership stood out. Together, they produced TREAT TOWN, the first-ever digital Halloween trick-or-treating experience. As customer demands evolved, Mars' co-innovation partnership with Bounteous allowed them to respond with the speed and agility of a category leader. "We're honored to accept this award alongside Mars Wrigley," said Seth Dobbs, Chief Technology Officer at Bounteous. "Bringing the Mars Wrigley Treat Town concept to life in such a short period of time required true integration and pushed the envelope on creative digital solutions. We were able to guide cross-functional teams across discipline and organization to help Mars Wrigley bring consumers better moments and more smiles in an innovative virtual environment, integrating technology, purchasing and online and in-store redemption in ways that had never been done before." This year's submissions highlighted creative responses to customer challenges presented by today's rapidly evolving environment. The nominated solutions all demonstrated an exceptional level of functionality, integration, performance, and overall user experience. A panel of independent judges ultimately chose the winning projects. "In today's changing climate, digital experiences are more vital thanever," said Lynne Capozzi, Chief Marketing Officer at Acquia. "Our partners and customers are going above and beyond to use open platforms and technologies to support customers and employees. Acquia is proud to showcase this year's winners, who have truly risen to the challenge."



Winning projects are featured at the Acquia Engage conference, which is taking place virtually this week. Bounteous is a Premier Sponsor of the conference and will be presenting during the general session on how to empower marketing organizations to deliver more transformative and personal customer experiences through customer data platforms and machine learning. About Bounteous

Founded in 2003 in Chicago, Bounteous is a leading digital experience consultancy that co-innovates with the world's most ambitious brands to create transformative digital experiences. With services in Strategy, Experience Design, Technology, Analytics, and Marketing, Bounteous elevates brand experiences and drives superior client outcomes. For more information, please visit www.bounteous.com. For more information about co-innovation, download the Co-Innovation Manifesto at co-innovation.com. For the most up-to-date news, follow Bounteous on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. About Acquia Acquia empowers the world's most ambitious brands to create digital customer experiences that matter. With open source Drupal at its core, the Acquia Digital Experience Platform (DXP) enables marketers, developers and IT operations teams at thousands of global organizations to rapidly compose and deploy digital products and services that engage customers, enhance conversions and help businesses stand out. Learn more at https://www.acquia.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005892/en/

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[October 26, 2021] HERBOLEA Closes 5M Series A Round Led by EU Cannabis Fund OSKARE Capital and Bruce Linton

NEW YORK, Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Herbolea, an Italian company who develops and licenses proprietary, solventless technologies to transform botanicals into superior quality products, is happy to announce the closing of its 5m EUR Series A round, of which 2.5m EUR conditioned to milestone achievement, led by the European medical and pharmaceutical cannabis specialist fund, Oskare Capital. The funds will be used to accelerate growth, expand the team and extend access to core markets, in particular, the US. Joining Oskare Capital in the round were a number of HNWIs who equally appreciate Herbolea's unique value proposition. Herbolea's technology is tailored for the extraction of active ingredients from the cannabis plant, however, Herbolea are also applying the enzymatic process in adjacent verticals, such as the extraction of actives from hops. The company is currently generating 7 figure revenues and operating extraction equipment in several important geographies, including in GMP facilities, in US, Germany, Thailand and Italy. Oskare Capital's President, Alexandre Ouimet-Storrs comments: "As a chemical engineer by training, I immediately understood the potential this platform technology has to revolutionize the way we extract botanicals today. Herbolea's technology can extract valuable compounds from the fresh cannabis plant, with no need to dry, at a fraction of the costs of current technologies, provide higher quality end products nd is safer to operate as their process is enzyme based and does not require high pressure or solvents."



Representing the syndicate of HNWIs, Senior Managing Director at Houlihan Lokey, Joseph Swanson, notes, "We are delighted to partner with Oskare in supporting Herbolea at this exciting time in the Company's history. Herbolea is uniquely positioned, with patented technology and a structural cost advantage, to disrupt multiple industry verticals built on biomass extraction". About Herbolea

Herbolea Biotech is an Italian extraction technology company offering industrial solventless solutions to transform botanicals into superior quality products through proprietary, highly efficient, and environmentally friendly technologies. Visit www.herbolea.com to learn more or watch a video of our processes at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZjLIds9FPkQ. For more information, please contact: Lorenzo Venturini Del Greco by email [email protected] or Marco Merciai, [email protected], +393922655333 About Oskare Capital OSKARE CAPITAL SAS (Paris, France) currently advises Oskare Fund I ICAV (Dublin, Ireland), the first AIFM and ESG compatible Venture Capital fund with an investment focus on innovative companies and teams in Europe working on novel therapeutics (cannabinoids and other molecules) that target the endocannabinoid system as well as the 'picks and shovels' of the associated ecosystem of services and products that support this fast growing global market. The Fund will invest in startups across the entire value chain (from Seed to Patient) but will not invest in cannabis production or recreational cannabis. For more information, please contact: Oliver Lamb by email [email protected]

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/herbolea-closes-5m-series-a-round-led-by-eu-cannabis-fund-oskare-capital-and-bruce-linton-301408875.html SOURCE Herbolea Biotech S.p.a.

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[October 26, 2021] Worldwide Business Travel Insurance Industry to 2030 - Featuring Allianz, AXA and Chubb Among Others - ResearchAndMarkets.com

The "Business Travel Insurance Market By Coverage Type, Distribution Channels, and Application: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2021-2030" report has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. Business travel insurance is an insurance product that offers coverage to corporate owners for unforeseeable incidences occurred during the travelling. It provides expenses for trip revocation, emergency medical treatment, flight suspensions, missing luggage, and public liability to minimize financial uncertainty during business travelling. Furthermore, increase in adoption of travel insurance policy among businesses due to various offers provided by several intermediaries such as insurance aggregators, banks, and insurance brokers contributes toward the growth of the global market. The distribution channel helps businesses to buy affordable insurance policy during travelling internationally, which fosters the growth of the market. Increase in use of digital distribution channel among insurance providers to boost the business sales and strengthened government regulations toward cross-border travelling act as the key driving forces of the growth of the global business travel insurance market. In addition, rapid increase in national and international travelling for businesses is accelerating the growth of the global market. However, limited data sets for offering affordable insurance policy hampers the growth of market. On the contrary, surge in spending of businesses on high cost products & services and adoption of digital tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), aplication program interface (API), global positioning system (GPS), and data analytics to deliver affordable insurance policies are expected to provide remunerative opportunity for the expansion of the global market during the forecast period.



The global business travel insurance market is segmented into coverage type, distribution channels, application and region. By coverage type, the market is segregated into single-trip travel insurance and multi-trip travel insurance. On the basis of distribution channels, it is categorized into insurance intermediaries, insurance companies, banks, insurance brokers and insurance aggregators. As per the application, the market is bifurcated into domestic and international. Region wise, the market is analyzed across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA. Companies Mentioned

Allianz

American International Group Inc.

Assicurazioni Generali S.P.A.

AXA

Chubb

Nationwide

Seven Corners Inc.

TravelSafe

USI Insurance Services LLC

Zurich Key Benefits The study provides an in-depth analysis of global business travel insurance market forecast along with the current trends and future estimations to elucidate the imminent investment pockets.

Information about key drivers, restraints, and opportunities and their impact analysis on global business travel insurance market share is provided in the report.

Porter's five forces analysis illustrates the potency of the buyers and suppliers operating in the industry.

The quantitative analysis of the market from 2021 to 2030 is provided to determine the market potential. Key Topics Covered: CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION CHAPTER 2: EXECUTIVE SUMMARY CHAPTER 3: MARKET LANDSCAPE 3.1. MARKET DEFINITION AND SCOPE 3.2. KEY FINDINGS 3.2.1. Top investment pockets 3.2.2. Top winning strategies 3.3. PORTER'S FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS 3.3.1. Bargaining power of suppliers 3.3.2. Threat of new entrants 3.3.3. Threat of substitutes 3.3.4. Competitive rivalry 3.3.5. Bargaining power among buyers 3.4. MARKET SHARE ANALYSIS/TOP PLAYER POSITIONING 2020 3.5. MARKET DYNAMICS 3.5.1. Drivers 3.5.2. Restraints 3.5.3. Opportunities CHAPTER 4: BUSINESS TRAVEL INSURANCE MARKET BY COVERAGE TYPE CHAPTER 5: BUSINESS TRAVEL INSURANCE MARKET BY DISTRIBUTION CHANNELS CHAPTER 6: BUSINESS TRAVEL INSURANCE MARKET BY APPLICATION CHAPTER 7: BUSINESS TRAVEL INSURANCE MARKET BY REGION CHAPTER 8: COMPANY PROFILES For more information about this report visit https://www.researchandmarkets.com/r/dn4lg2 View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005936/en/

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[October 26, 2021] 5N Plus to Release Third Quarter Fiscal 2021 Results on November 2, 2021

MONTREAL, Oct. 26, 2021 /CNW Telbec/ - 5N Plus Inc. (TSX: VNP) will release its third quarter results after market hours on November 2, 2021. 5N Plus will host a conference call on November 3, 2021 at 8:00 a.m. (Eastern Daylight Time) to discuss the results. To join the conference toll free, please dial 1-888-664-6392, or 416-764-8659 in Toronto. The conference access code is 6506503. To access via webcast please visit the "Investors Center" section of www.5nplus.com . Preregistration will be available. Please note thatthis conference call will be accompanied by an online presentation available to download on our website and that a playback will be available two hours after the event at 1-888-390-0541, until November 10, 2021. The access code is 065031.



About 5N Plus Inc.

5N Plus is a leading global producer of specialty semiconductors and performance materials. The Company's ultra-pure materials often form the core element of its customer products. These customers rely on 5N Plus's products to enable performance and sustainability in their own products. 5N Plus deploys a range of proprietary and proven technologies to develop and manufacture its products. The Company's products enable various applications in a number of key industries including renewable energy, security, space, pharmaceutical, medical imaging, and industrial and additive manufacturing. Headquartered in Montreal, Quebec, 5N Plus operates R&D, manufacturing and commercial centers in strategically located facilities around the world including Europe, North America and Asia. The Company's mission is to be critical to its customers, valued by its employees and trusted by its shareholders. The Company's core values focus on integrity, commitment and customer development along with emphasis on sustainable development, continuous improvement, health and safety. SOURCE 5N Plus Inc.



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[October 26, 2021] Codenotary Launches First Free, Open Source Notarization and Verification Service for Creating Software Bill of Materials

HOUSTON, Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The U.S. Executive Order on Improving the Nations Cybersecurity includes "providing a purchaser a Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) for each application." Codenotary Community Attestation Service -- the first free, open source artifact and container notarization and verification service -- enables businesses to get started in minutes to easily create an SBOM attesting to the provenance and safety of the code they use every day.

The Community Attestation Service from Codenotary , the immutability specialist that provides end-to-end tamper-proof protection for software development and workloads, is scalable to millions of transactions per second, and gives developers a way to attach a tamper-proof SBOM for development artifacts that include source code, builds, repositories, and more, plus Docker container images for their software. The SBOM is built without uploading any data to the service, instead notarizing these artifacts using the modern cryptographic verification to uniquely dentify development artifacts. Each artifact retains a cryptographically strong identity stored in Codenotarys immutable database immudb .



More and more software companies are being asked by their customers to provide a software bill of materials and to give guarantees about its veracity, said Dennis Zimmer, co-founder and chief technical officer, Codenotary. Were providing an easy way for developers to build a SBOM and let their customers and users know the provenance of their software is cryptographically and very easily verifiable, effectively enabling true Zero Trust application delivery. Home Assistant , an open source home automation solution with hundreds of thousands of users world-wide, is using Codenotarys Community Attestation Service to ensure that only approved code runs at the homes that are using its software. Home Assistant puts local control and privacy first, powered by a worldwide community of tinkerers and DIY enthusiasts.

The open source nature of Community Attestation Service, the easy integration and real time revocation are a real game changer, said Pascal Vizeli, founder and core developer of Home Assistant. That is how software trust and integrity should look and feel. Supply chain security is part and parcel of earning the communitys trust as a platform, said Jack Aboutboul, community manager of the leading CentOS replacement AlmaLinux. AlmaLinux is working on integration with the Community Attestation Service to provide a secure Software Bill of Materials for the AlmaLinux OS distribution and guarantee the provenance of our builds. We are partnering with Codenotary to provide these integrity measures given the open source nature of their toolchain and their tamper-proof immudb database. Visit cas.codenotary.com and start creating tamperproof SBOMs for your software in minutes. About Codenotary

Codenotary brings easy to use trust and integrity into the software lifecycle by providing end-to-end cryptographically verifiable tracking and provenance for all artifacts, actions, and dependencies. Codenotary can be set up in minutes and is fully integratable with modern CI/CD platforms. It is the only immutable and client-verifiable solution available that is capable of processing millions of transactions a second. For more information, go to https://www.codenotary.com . Contact:

Joe Eckert for Codenotary

Eckert Communications

[email protected]



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[October 26, 2021] ConTech Company Bridgit Announces $24 Million Series B Funding Round

Bridgit, a Toronto-based workforce intelligence technology company that's focused on the construction industry, is announcing today that it has raised $24 million in Series B funding. Founded by Chief Executive Officer Mallorie Brodie and Chief Operating Officer Lauren Lake, Bridgit's post-Series B blueprint includes building out its team, furthering its product development activities, and laying the groundwork for increasing market share. Further, Bridgit is also announcing the hiring of two new executives - Amy Abascal (formerly of Aconex and Oracle (News - Alert) Primavera) as Vice President of Marketing and Jason Fitzpatrick (formerly of Intelex) as Senior Vice President of Sales - and two new board members. The restructured board includes Arun Penmetsa, Partner at Storm Ventures (News - Alert) and Mitchell Schear, Executive Partner at Camber Creek. "When we went on the hunt to solve the industry's next challenge, my co-founder and I spoke with hundreds of contractors and construction executives to understand how technology could make them more successful. Clear themes emerged, including more strategic workforce planning, the need to forecast future staffing demands, and collaborative access to people and project data," said Mallorie Brodie, CEO and Co-Founder at Bridgit. "In just over two years since launching, we've experienced a staggering rate of adoption by North America's biggest general contractors like Skanska, Balfour Beatty, and Ryan Companies, among others. This Series B funding round will fuel rapid product development and aggressive hiring, so we can continue to bring innovative solutions to the forefront of the construction industry." This latest funding round was co-led by Camber Creek and Storm Ventures. Additional investors include Nine Four Ventures, along with existing investors BDC Capital's (News - Alert) Women in Technology Venture Fund, StandUp Ventures, Sands Capital, and Vanedge Capital - all of which were attracted by Bridgit's fast growth and innovative product offerings. The company's flagship solution, Bridgit Bench, is a digital, cloud-based platform that helps general contractors plan and grow their workforce, leverage project data to improve bidding and staffing decisions, and forecast project pipelines to increase productivity and profitability. Bridgit Bench has been a catalyst in attracting new talent, customers, and investors. It has helped the company double in size and increased revenue by 140% since its last funding round.



"Construction technology drives massive improvements in the safety, productivity, and bottom line for general contractors. It's no wonder half of venture funding over the past 3 years has gone to ConTech," said Arun Penmetsa, Partner at Storm Ventures. "By transforming workforce data into actionable insights, Bridgit's customers leverage their most important tool in their tool belts - their people - to reduce risk and maximize profit." "Bridgit drives meaningful value to leading construction companies by helping them maximize team member contributions," said Mitchell Schear, Executive Partner at Camber Creek. "It is an intuitive, easy-to-use platform that makes complex operations simple."

After launching its workforce intelligence solution in 2019, Bridgit has scaled significantly. Since its last funding round, Bridgit has hired 39 new employees for a total of 83, and is currently hiring for sixteen more positions. It has also onboarded 58 new customers, which include Clayco, The Walsh Group, and Hoffman (News - Alert) Construction, with enterprise-wide agreements signed with Skanska, Ryan Companies, and Alberici-Flintco. The company is now partnered with over 16% of the Engineering News-Record's Top 400 Contractors - the largest contractors in the U.S. based on revenue. "As a leading general contractor in Texas, our goal is to consistently deliver high-quality buildings in a variety of market sectors, while exceeding the most demanding expectations," said Johnathon Grammer, Director of Operational Excellence at Rogers-O'Brien Construction. "Bridgit gives us the ability to put the right people on the right jobs at the right time. This gives us a distinct competitive edge by allowing us to put our best teams forward, while pursuing and winning bids on projects where we are positioned to be most successful." Additionally, Bridgit has released 33 new features and announced 16 integrations (with companies such as Procore and Autodesk (News - Alert)), with plans for many more in the future. With a fresh infusion of capital, executive talent, and seasoned board members, Bridgit is seizing the momentum and preparing to further disrupt the industry in the years ahead. About Bridgit Bridgit is workforce intelligence for the construction industry. Bridgit's mission is simple - to help the construction industry maximize profits by taking a people-first approach. Workforce Intelligence from Bridgit transforms workforce data into actionable insights that inform an organization's strategic and tactical business decisions. Bridgit is a privately held company, having raised over $35 million USD in equity financing, with capital from investors such as Autodesk, BDC Capital's Women in Technology Venture Fund, Camber Creek, Export Development Canada, IAF, Nine Four Ventures, Salesforce Ventures, Sands Capital, StandUp Ventures, Storm Ventures, and Vanedge Capital. Learn more about Bridgit at gobridgit.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005890/en/

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[October 26, 2021] NAVYA Registers Major Successes in the U.S. with Beep, its American Partner for Over Two Years

Regulatory News: NAVYA (FR0013018041- Navya), a leading company in autonomous mobility systems, congratulates the JTA for receiving the ITS World Congress Hall of Fame Local Government Award for the Americas Region, recognizing the historic deployment of autonomous vehicles to move more than 30,000 COVID-19 tests on the Mayo Clinic's Jacksonville campus in 2020. The ITS World Congress Hall of Fame Local Government Award is given to a government agency that develops and/or deploys significant innovative ITS products or services that fostered advanced deployment of ITS services, implements policies or projects advancing the development and deployment of ITS and plays a leading role in the ITS Community. From March until July 2020, the JTA's Automation & Innovation Division worked with Beep and NAVYA to deploy autonomous vehicles on the Mayo Clinic's Jacksonville campus to move successfully more than 30,000 COVID-19 and BAP test samples from drive-thru testing sites to the hospital's laboratories. In concert with the JTA and Mayo Clinic, Beep enabled multiple NAVYA vehicles end-to-end along the roughly 0.5-mile route on the Mayo Clinic campus. The Autonom Shuttles operated with Level 4 autonomy, without on-board attendants. NAVYA has grown in the U.S. since 2019 thanks to different deployments including JTA, Lake Nona, Tampa, St. Petersburgh and Port St. Lucie. The strategic partnership built with Beep started with the deployment of two shuttles in Lake Nona (Orlando), FL, which has expanded to become the largest and longest single AV network in the United States of America. As of today, 6 Autonom Shuttles operate seven days a week across five routes in the community on public roads. All routes connect the key destinations within the 17-mile master planned community such as the Town Center, recreational area, Orlando VA Medical Center, Nemours Children's Hospital and Ronald McDonald House to Lake Nona residential areas. Two years after its launch, the Autonom Shuttles have driven over 21,000 miles, had ridership of more than 30,000+ passengers, reduced the equivalent of 16,800 vehicle trips, and saved thousands of pounds of CO 2 with the 100% electric autonomous shuttles. NAVYA and Beep have already several new vehicle launches together, as the one deployed early October 2021 in the Innovation Corridor at Peachtree Corners, Georgia, and two upcoming in Tampa, Florida and Peoria, Arizona. Will Soson, Director of NAVYA, Inc. in North America, stated : " We congratulate JTA on winning ITS World Congress Hall of Fame Local Government Award using Navya Autonom Shuttles. Our focus is to be number one supplier in the United States of self-driving solutions to serve customers like Beep".



Joe Moye, CEO of Beep added: "NAVYA'S safe and reliable self-driving technology proved the feasibility and viability of fully autonomous vehicles, with no attendant onboard, to help facilitate the safe transport of COVID-19 test supplies. The safe testing of autonomous shuttles on public roads can only be accomplished through collaboration and working with the best of breed platforms in the industry". Pierre Lahutte, CEO of NAVYA, added: "We would like to thank Beep for its trust and all the achievements our partnership delivered during these two years. The deployments such as the ones operated on the Mayo Clinic and Lake Nona illustrate all the benefits provided by alternative mobility solutions. With these experiments, NAVYA technology proved to deliver an easy, safe and sustainable service, able to decrease the number of vehicle trips while reducing the carbon footprint within a 100% electric solution".

About the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) The Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA) is an independent state agency serving Jacksonville, Florida and Northeast Florida with multi-modal responsibilities. The JTA provides varied mass public transit services, and is a builder of roads, bridges and other infrastructure to enhance mobility in Jacksonville. Public transportation services include BRT (News - Alert) and regular bus service, paratransit, the St. Johns River Ferry, Skyway APM, and other mobility and on-demand services in Duval, Clay, Baker, Nassau and St. Johns counties. To learn more, visit www.jtafla.com About Beep Beep delivers the next generation of mobility services utilizing driverless, electric, multi-passenger vehicles. By specializing in planning, deploying and managing advanced autonomous shuttles for both private and public communities, Beep safely connects people, places and services in first-mile, last-mile mobility networks. Beep also leverages the data and learnings from its public road deployments to produce vehicle agnostic, edge solutions meant to enhance safety, access, artificial-intelligence and driverless operating capabilities of autonomous platforms. Beep delivers on a primary goal of enabling mobility-for-all with the services and software they provide. For more information visit: www.ridebeep.com About NAVYA Created in 2014, NAVYA is a leading French name specialized in the supply of autonomous mobility systems and associated services. With 280 employees in France (Paris and Lyon), in the United States (Michigan) and in Singapore, NAVYA aims at becoming the leading player in level 4 autonomous mobility systems for passenger and goods transport. Since 2015, NAVYA has been the first to market and put into service autonomous mobility solutions. The Autonom Shuttle, main development axis, is dedicated to passenger transport. Since its launch, more than 180 units have been sold in 23 countries as of 31 December 2020. The Autonom Tract is designed to goods transport. Engaged in an ambitious CSR (News - Alert) approach, the Company has an active policy in this area, as illustrated by the obtaining of the ISO 9001 certification in September 2021. The Valeo and Keolis groups are among NAVYA's historical shareholders. NAVYA is listed on the Euronext regulated market in Paris (ISIN code: FR0013018041- Navya). For more information visit: www.navya.tech/en View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006009/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Asana Named to Fast Company's First Annual List of Brands That Matter

Asana, Inc. (NYSE: ASAN)(LTSE:ASAN), a leading work management platform for teams, today announced it has been named to Fast Company's first annual Brands That Matter list, honoring companies that have achieved relevance through cultural impact and social engagement while authentically communicating their mission and ideals. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006013/en/ Fast Company recognized Asana for its commitment to supporting its customer community in 2020 and beyond. (Graphic: Business Wire) Fast Company recognized Asana for its commitment to supporting its customer community in 2020 and beyond. In March 2020, Asana launched the Asana is Here for You program to ensure that customers were able to continue working together as effortlessly as possible in the face of the challenges brought on by the global pandemic. The campaign centered on: Supporting nonprofit organizations on the front lines of COVID-19

Providing economicrelief to customers in need

Mobilizing resources to help companies of all sizes adapt to remote work.



e Asana is Here for You program, the company offered 12-months of free access to Asana Business for hundreds of qualifying nonprofit organizations helping in the global fight against COVID-19 and its devastating impacts. For example, New York Cares kept the City's most vulnerable populations fed by launching a new Phone (News - Alert) Bank Program to check in on isolated seniors and remote learners with Asana. With access to Asana's free Business plan, Hope for Haiti's entire staff in Haiti and in the United States was able to work together on projects, share information, and keep track of their work in an easy and convenient way-despite being physically separated. "Our customers are at the heart of everything we do," said Dave King, Head of Marketing, Asana. "Over the past 18 months, teams have faced extraordinary challenges. We're grateful to play a role in providing them the tools, education, and assistance they need to manage their work from anywhere. Our customers' mission is our mission. Being recognized as a Brand that Matters underlines our commitment to helping teams achieve their goals together."

The final list, which includes large multinational conglomerates, small-but-mighty companies and nonprofits, recognizes 95 brands that give people compelling reasons to care about them-and offer inspiration for others to buy in. All 95 have found an ability to forge an emotional connection with customers, whether leading on the environment or pop culture, engaging B2B customers, or responding meaningfully to current events. "Fast Company is excited to highlight companies and organizations that have built brands with deep meaning and connections to the customers they serve. At a time when consumers are holding companies to very high standards, businesses have much to learn from these brands that have garnered respect and trust," says Stephanie Mehta, editor-in-chief of Fast Company. The recognition is the latest industry accolade for Asana. Earlier this year, Fast Company recognized Asana as #15 on its prestigious list of the World's Most Innovative Companies for 2021 and one of the Best Workplaces for Innovators, a testament to its commitment to serving its customers and empowering teams to work together effortlessly. About Asana Asana helps teams orchestrate their work, from small projects to strategic initiatives. Headquartered in San Francisco, CA (News - Alert), Asana has more than 107,000 paying customers and millions of free organizations across 190 countries. Global customers such as Amazon, Japan Airlines, Sky, and Under Armour rely on Asana to manage everything from company objectives to digital transformation to product launches and marketing campaigns. For more information, visit www.asana.com. About Fast Company Fast Company is the only media brand fully dedicated to the vital intersection of business, innovation, and design, engaging the most influential leaders, companies, and thinkers on the future of business. The editor-in-chief is Stephanie Mehta. Headquartered in New York City, Fast Company is published by Mansueto Ventures LLC, along with our sister publication, Inc., and can be found online at fastcompany.com. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006013/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Advisor Perspectives Named Most Read E-Newsletter for Financial Advisors for Third Consecutive Year

Advisor Perspectives, a premier digital publisher for the financial advisory profession, today announced it has been ranked as the most-read electronic newsletter among financial advisors for the third year in a row by Erdos & Morgan. Advisor Perspectives ranked ahead of The Wall Street Journal and Bloomberg (News - Alert) this year among the e-newsletters listed, with readership nearly four-times that of the average publication and 29% greater than the second-place publication among all 400,000 financial advisors surveyed. Advisor Perspectives also claimed the number one spot for e-newsletters among the independent registered investment advisor (RIA) segment. "The use of email and online information by advisors has continued to grow since our top ranking as most read e-newsletter in 2020," said Robert Huebscher, CEO of Advisor Perspectives. "There has been a clear shift towards email communication during the pandemic and we experienced this irst-hand throughout 2020 and 2021, as our email subscriber base and engagement rates surged. This study validates the enormous amount of effort from our team, which is unified in our goal to deliver the best possible content to the advisory profession."



"Electronic newsletters continue to be a vital growth area for many media brands," said David March, the chief revenue officer at Erdos & Morgan. "According to our Financial Advisor Media Outlook and Usage Study, two out of three financial advisors receive at least one electronic newsletter." In addition to media consumption, the study provides a multifaceted profile of FAs that goes beyond basic demographic information. It includes variables such as AUM, work setting and the role of the FA in the client/FA relationship so that targeting efforts can really drill down to the most valuable type of FA for each client."

Since 2013, the Financial Advisor Media Outlook and Usage Study (FAMOUS) by Erdos & Morgan has supplied deep insights into how professional financial advisors view fund families and use media. In addition to media consumption, the study also provides a multifaceted profile of financial advisors that goes beyond basic demographic information including variables such as AUM, work setting and the role of the advisor in the client relationship. Webinar on November 15th To introduce this year's study to the advisor community, Advisor Perspectives and Erdos & Morgan will be hosting a joint webinar to help educate advisors about growing trends in the industry on Monday, November 15, 2021 at 2 pm ET / 11 am PT. We'll post an invitation to attend this webinar on our home page in the next two weeks. In addition to its electronic newsletters for financial advisors, Advisor Perspectives offers webinars, content promotion, virtual summits, podcasts, and other opportunities. ABOUT ADVISOR PERSPECTIVES Advisor Perspectives is the premier digital publisher for the advisory profession, including RIAs, financial planners, wirehouse and independent broker-dealer representatives, family offices, insurance brokers, institutional investors, bank professionals and more. Rated #1 most-read electronic newsletter by financial advisors three years in a row by Erdos & Morgan, Advisor Perspectives helps advisors enable clients to achieve their financial goals. The publishing company is headquartered in Lexington, MA and was founded in 2007. ABOUT ERDOS & MORGAN Erdos & Morgan has been a leader in media market research for over 70 years, offering a wide range of full-service custom market research capabilities and syndicated research. Erdos & Morgan, as a subsidiary of Beta Research, is certified as a women's business enterprise through the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC). For further information regarding the Financial Advisor Media Outlook and Usage Study or Erdos & Morgan, please contact David March at [email protected] or 201-236-0469. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006016/en/

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[October 26, 2021] APOLLO Insurance and Wedding Planners Institute of Canada Partners to Offer Canadian Consumers Access to Digital Event Insurance

APOLLO Insurance, Canada's leading online insurance provider, has partnered with Wedding Planners Institute of Canada to offer access to immediate digital insurance specifically tailored to weddings and events. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005015/en/ APOLLO Insurance partners with Wedding Planners Institute of Canada (Graphic: Business Wire) Launched in 2019, APOLLO Insurance now offers the largest selection of online insurance in Canada, through brokers and embedded partnerships like this one. Through APOLLO, consumers can get a quote and purchase insurance in five minutes, from any device, 24/7. Wedding Planners Institute of Canada opened in July of 2003, with their first in-person class debuting September 2003 at U of T Scarborough Campus, after appearing on BT (News - Alert) Television. WPIC currently has over 8,500 alumni from 34 countries, with 75% from Canada. "We are excited to be working with the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada who provides a remarkable service offering a phenomenal education program for wedding professionals," said APOLLO Director of Business Development Jill Carberry-Feldman. "APOLLO is able to provide an immediate digital solution, providing a simple solution for wedding planners. APOLLO's platform will give WPIC the ability to offer immediate insurance to their clients." Founded in 2003, Wedding Planners Institute of Canada is one of the top leders in Canada for higher education for wedding professionals, offering an extremely comprehensive, respected and internationally acclaimed in-person and online courses in Wedding Planning and Event Design, Destination Wedding Planning and the Art & Execution of Styled Shoots.



Wedding Planners Institute of Canada held their first international course for wedding and events for the staff of Sandals, Jamaica. Since then they have held multiple international courses providing the opportunity to train and certify wedding/event staff at multiple resorts in the Bahamas, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, Mexico and Dominican Republic. Currently WPIC has partnered with TravelOnly, a travel agency based in Canada that coincides with their destination wedding specialist course. "We are excited about this wonderful opportunity with APOLLO as it will offer our planners and their wedding clients quick, easy and professional coverage for their weddings and special events," said Danielle Andrews, President and Co-founder of The Wedding Planners Institute of Canada.

APOLLO's proprietary technology platform, the APOLLO Exchange, transacts insurance business in real time, and leverages extensive data and sophisticated algorithms to quote, collect payment, create and deliver policies. Through APOLLO, thousands of small businesses and individuals are able to buy online without human intervention. About APOLLO Insurance

Apollo Insurance Solutions Ltd. ("APOLLO Insurance") is Canada's leading online insurance provider. Our proprietary platform, the APOLLO Exchange, allows insurance agents and their customers to purchase their policy immediately, from anywhere, on any device, 24/7. Unlike traditional paper-based processes, APOLLO leverages extensive data and sophisticated algorithms to quote, collect payment, and issue policies for thousands of types of small business and individuals without human intervention. Through traditional agents and embedded finance partnerships APOLLO is redefining the distribution of insurance. For more information, visit: https://apollocover.com/. About Wedding Planners Institute of Canada

As a leader in higher education for wedding professionals, we offer extremely comprehensive, respected, and internationally acclaimed in-person and online courses in Wedding Planning and Coordination, Wedding and Event Design, Destination Wedding Planning, and the Art & Execution of Styled Shoots. We strongly believe a true professional constantly updates and betters themself through conferences, continued learning and networking, so we also give our students a free lifetime membership to our Alumni Association of more than 8500 Certified Wedding Planners and Coordinators, (providing they uphold the WPIC Code of Ethics). For more information, visit: https://wpic.ca/. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026005015/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Meridian Integration Announces Release of New Digital Customer Engagement Mobile App

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Meridian Integration, a Jacksonville, FL based utility solutions provider, is excited to announce the recent release of El Paso Electric's Mobile application. Meridian Integration Launches New Digital Customer Engagement Mobile App "We are thrilled to have created and launched this app on behalf of El Paso Electric (EPE). It is a natural extension of our IDEA Digital Customer Engagement solution and illustrates our commitment to staying ahead of the technology curve and supporting our clients in their customer experience (CX) initiatives and technology journeys." said Todd Lamoureaux, CCO of Meridian. He further mentioned "We believe this app will have tremendous positive impact on EPE's CX and look forward to implementing it across our eisting client base and beyond."



EPE customers can now easily access their EPE account and take advantage of new features right at their fingertips with the new El Paso Electric mobile app. The app comes equipped with all the familiar, useful features found on the EPE Manage My Account online portal at epelectric.com and powered by Meridian's IDEA solution. This means customers can access their account on the mobile app with the same login and password used to access their EPE account online or customers can sign up on the app too. "The El Paso Electric mobile app is leveraging the power of technology to make it easier for our mobile enabled customers to access their account and enhance their customer experience," shares EPE Vice President Cheryl Mele. "Today, mobile apps are inherent to any business. Customers want multiple channels to interact with EPE and our new app closes the gap on one service our customers wanted. We are proud to unveil this intuitive app that can provide customers insight to their energy usage and guide them to implement changes that help them to manage their energy usage." The app can be downloaded from either Apple Store or Google Play by simply searching El Paso Electric.

About Meridian Integration

Founded in 2008, Meridian Integration provides turnkey technology solutions focused on digital customer engagement and business process consulting for the Utility industry. Meridian is member of the Oracle Partner Network and has worked with hundreds of utilities since inception creating sustainable value while leveraging a broad portfolio of solutions and services such as IDEA, Meridian's Customer Digital Engagement platform, Implementation/Upgrade services, and Managed Services within the Oracle Utilities product family. www.meridian-integration.com About El Paso Electric

El Paso Electric is a regional electric utility providing generation, transmission, and distribution service to approximately 444,300 retail and wholesale customers in a 10,000-square mile area of the Rio Grande valley in west Texas and southern New Mexico. www.epelectric.com Contact: Todd Lamoureaux

[email protected] View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/meridian-integration-announces-release-of-new-digital-customer-engagement-mobile-app-301408955.html SOURCE Meridian Integration

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[October 26, 2021] Glewee Launches First Free-To-Use Invite-Only Marketplace To Connect Marketers and Influencers

Glewee has launched an innovative online marketplace designed to allow marketing executives, brand campaign managers, and social media influencers to connect and collaborate in order to execute new social media product/service campaigns. By utilizing the company's platform, businesses can find and select the specific influencers who are most likely to deliver the best engagement and sales for their brands. Influencers can support brands relevant to their values and interests while securing independent income. Unlike other competing companies, Glewee does not use technology just to create databases of content creators. Instead, both marketing professionals and influencers apply and go through a vetting process to ensure they meet standards for the platform. From spending budgets to creator engagement rates, various metrics are taken into account during this process. Just months after going to market, Glewee is already nearing 5,000 applications. Applying for Glewee is completely free, and there are no upfront costs or monthly/subscription fees to have an account or use the platform. Creators and brands can engage at their own customized agreed-upon rates. Glewee takes a small, fixed-rate service fee from the overall campaign payout in exchange for connecting a marketer and influencer. "We didn't want to just scrape creator websites and then tell brands that we were giving them access to 'millions' of influencers," says Glewe founder and CEO Dylan Duke. "We wanted to focus on the core value of the platform: delivering true connection between Brands and Creators. This platform takes advantage of in-depth campaign processes to allow high-quality relationships to flourish, all while allowing marketers to use key data metrics to track the success of their campaigns."



When brands join Glewee, they can work with influencers with followings on popular social media platforms, including Instagram, TikTok, YouTube (News - Alert), Twitter, and Facebook. This allows marketers to reach more specific target demographics based on the typical users for each platform. At the same time, brands can reach larger audiences if desired by partnering with relevant influencers who have followings across multiple platforms. With either approach, the influencers can ensure that the brands are reaching customers who are truly interested in their offerings. Having a large network of brands available also allows influencers to make sure they are marketing consistently according to their individual voice, which means that followers are more likely to perceive the influencer as authentic and stick with them over time. To ensure every niche is covered, the Glewee Brand Community includes hundreds of brands spanning everything from skincare and beauty to esports and music.

Glewee also provides brands with variety in terms of post type and visibility enhancers. There are over 75 combinations of post types that a brand can request from a creator, based on the variety of functions established in the brand deal. For example, if a brand opts to create posts for Instagram, then they can create feed or story posts, and they can integrate brand tags, hashtags, and a swipe up link to the brand's website. This range in content helps the brand to get more specific about who actually sees the post and what goals the post needs to achieve. If you're a marketer or influencer who would like to get involved in this exclusive marketplace, please visit Glewee's website, submit your application, and book a free demo. Founded in 2020, Glewee is a privately-held company based in Tampa, Florida. The business provides a free, application-based platform designed to connect brands and social media creators/influencers. To learn more about Glewee, send an email to [email protected]. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006113/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Windstream Wholesale Federal Brings Unique Fiber Builds to More U.S. Military Bases

Windstream (News - Alert) Wholesale Federal, a leading provider of advanced optical solutions, announced today that it is building fiber connections that will bring diverse, high-bandwidth DWDM services to a number of U.S. military installations. The builds will be lit by the company's state-of-the-art Intelligent Converged Optical Network (ICON). The new fiber connections include pathways to Offutt Air Force Base in Omaha, completed earlier this year, as well as to the Defense Logistics Agency in Columbus, Ohio, and the Philadelphia Navy Yard, both of which are scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of 2022. "The Windstream Wholesale network continues to expand to meet the growing data transport needs of our government customers," said Joe Scattareggia, executive vice president of Windstream Wholesale. "These new fiber builds to U.S. military bases will provide the federal government with vendor diversity, more competitive bids, and customized solutions featuring significantly greater bandwidth, including our market-leading 400 Gigabit services. We are bringing theWindstream Wholesale Fast and Flexible approach to our government agencies."



Windstream Wholesale Federal currently provides fiber network connections to a number of U.S military installations, including Scott Air Force Base, Mechanicsburg Naval Depot, Fort Knox, and Fort Campbell. Account executives from Windstream's federal government services team will attend TechNet Cyber 2021, a forum for military, industry and academia to discuss cybersecurity. Representatives will be available at Booth 2039 during the Oct. 27-28 event at the Baltimore Convention Center in Maryland.

About Windstream Windstream Holdings is a privately held Fortune 1000 communications and software company. Windstream Wholesale is an innovative optical technology leader that creates deep partnerships with carriers, content and media providers, and federal government agencies to deliver fast and flexible, customized wave and transport solutions. Additional information is available at windstream.com or windstreamwholesale.com. Follow us on Twitter (News - Alert) at @Windstream. From Fortune. 2021 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune and Fortune 1000 are registered trademarks of Fortune Media IP Limited and are used under license. Fortune is not affiliated with, and does not endorse products or services of, Windstream. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006120/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Cloud Computing Company SkyTerra Technologies Joins Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

NASHUA, N.H., Oct. 26, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- SkyTerra Technologies, a cloud computing company, recently joined the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce to support the region's business community and create opportunities for people to thrive. SkyTerra's membership will keep the team engaged with the community and aware of local issues affecting residents. "We've always been committed to our local community and by joining the chamber, we're furthering that commitment." "The chamber's mission is essential to the success of Greater Boston businesses," said Darren Schriever, co-founder of SkyTerra. "We look forward to working with the chamber board, other members and volunteers with the goal of supporting thelocal business community."



The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce is an independent, nonprofit organization that helps local businesses succeed. The chamber brings together local business leaders to help shape public policy. Their vision is to make Greater Boston the most prosperous region while ensuring economic opportunities available to all. "We've always been committed to our local community and by joining the chamber, we're furthering that commitment," said Dan Bergeron, co-founder of SkyTerra. "I look forward to the professional connections and collaboration that the chamber facilitates for its members."

In addition to joining the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce, SkyTerra makes a concerted effort to give back to the community by donating time and resources to organizations in need. The company was also recently named a top New Hampshire Business to watch . For more information, visit www.skyterratech.com or www.bostonchamber.com . About SkyTerra Technologies: SkyTerra is a leading New Hampshire IT advisory and cloud computing company. In a nutshell, we help companies do more with less by leveraging proven cloud solutions. Whether your organization is on-premises, already in the cloud or somewhere in between, we are your trusted advisor, providing you guidance for all of your IT needs.

SkyTerra is recognized by Microsoft and its partner ecosystem as a leading Azure provider. This means that an engagement with us provides you with direct access to an incredibly advanced, enterprise-level support team of certified Microsoft engineers and project management professionals who know what options and methods will work best for you  saving time and avoiding costly mistakes. View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cloud-computing-company-skyterra-technologies-joins-greater-boston-chamber-of-commerce-301409042.html SOURCE SkyTerra Technologies

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[October 26, 2021] New Research Shows Vulnerabilities in Banking, Cryptocurrency Exchange, and FinTech APIs Allow Unauthorized Transactions and PIN Code Changes of Customers

Noname Security, the API security company, and Alissa Knight, Partner at Knight Ink and recovering hacker, today announced at Money 20/20 new research, "Scorched Earth: Hacking Bank APIs" which unveils a number of vulnerabilities in the banking, cryptocurrency exchange, and FinTech industries. Details of this new research will be shared during Knight's keynote address at Money 20/20 today at 3:25 PM PST. Open banking has propelled the ubiquitous use of APIs across banking, enabling third-party developers to develop apps around the financial institution. Whether pursued as a compliance requirement or a business strategy, open banking has ignited financial services firms to focus on APIs and API security. Given this growing trend, Knight focused her vulnerability research on financial services and FinTech companies and was able to access 55 banks through their APIs, giving her the ability to change customers' PIN codes and move money in and out of customer accounts. Vulnerable targets ranged from companies with 25,000 to 68 million customers and $2.3 million to $7.7 trillion in assets under management. Among the key research findings: 54 of the 55 mobile apps that were reverse engineered contained hardcoded API keys and tokens including usernames and passwords to third-party services

All 55 apps tested were vulnerable to woman-in-the-middle (WITM) attacks, allowing Knight to intercept and decrypt the encrypted traffic between the mobile apps and backend APIs

100% of the APIs tested were vulnerable to Broken Object Level Authorization (BOLA) vulnerabilities allowing Knight to change the PIN code of any bank customer's Visa ATM debit card number or transfer money in/out of accounts

100% of the APIs tested were vulnerable to Broken Authentication vulnerabilities allowing Knight to perform API requests on other bank customer accounts without authenticating

One of the banks tested outsourced the development of their code; the developer reused that same vulnerable code across hundreds of other banks allowing the same attacks to be employed against those other bank targets Knight said, "For the last dcade, I've been focusing my vulnerability research into evaluating the security of the APIs that are now the bedrock of much of our nation's critical infrastructure. My exploits have transcended APIs in emergency services, transportation, healthcare, financial services to FinTech. APIs have become the plumbing for our entire connected world today."



Knight went on to say, "Unfortunately though, this is not without consequence as my research has proven. Many financial services and FinTech companies have opted to not develop their apps internally - instead they've outsourced their API and mobile app development to third-parties. It's clear based on my findings where authentication and authorization are very much broken, that there is no 'trust but verify' happening with these third-party developers." "Exacerbating the issue is the fact that these third-parties are reusing the same vulnerable code with their other bank customers. In my research, I was able to exploit broken authentication and broken object level authorization issues that allowed me to perform unauthorized money transfers and PIN code changes for any customer account, indicating a clear and present danger in our financial system caused by these insecure APIs," continued Knight.

With traditional banks having to compete against the neobanks and fintechs to keep up with the new demands for how consumers want to bank today, traditional Main Street banks are rushing to deploy new technologies to enable frictionless digital experience to try and erase the lines between neobanks and traditional. Globally, open banking programs have driven API-centric services offerings, opening payments, account services, and other data to third party providers. In addition, digital transformation initiatives are top priorities as financial services organizations look to improve the customer digital experience. The effort to attract new and keep existing customers by delivering additional value has resulted in more application services and the supporting APIs. This increased adoption of API use has resulted in a dramatic increase in the attack surface they represent. "As Knight's research has shown over the last couple of years, no industry is immune to an API attack; however, more and more are occurring especially within the Fintech space due to the sensitive nature of the data the APIs can provide and hackers have realized just how easy they are to exploit as Knight's latest research reflects," said Mark Campbell, Sr. Director at Noname Security. "APIs are at the heart of their digital strategies to improve their customers' experience and protecting them has become a top priority. We are uniquely addressing this challenge by delivering a single platform that provides API posture management, API detection and response, and API testing to add security into an organization's API development life cycle." Noname Security protects APIs in real-time and detects vulnerabilities and misconfigurations before they are exploited. The Noname API Security Platform integrates with existing security infrastructure, like WAFs, gateways, and SIEMs, to apply and enforce new policies and communicate to API and security stakeholders in real-time. Financial organizations can leverage the Noname API Security Platform to detect and mitigate the risks associated with the vulnerabilities Knight uncovered to: Significantly reduce or eliminate attack surfaces by detecting and remediating misconfigured APIs (e.g. broken authentication).

Identify anomalous behavior, broken authentication, and terminate suspicious API sessions.

Enable security teams to detect range violations and irregularities in the API calls and responses such as transfer amounts over a certain limit. Learn more about this new research and the Noname API Security platform by: Attending Knight's Keynote: Attend Knight's keynote "Scorched Earth: Hacking Bank APIs" When: Tuesday, October 26 at 3:25 pm Where: Ignite Stage, Expo Hall, Hall D, Level 2

Visiting the Noname Security Booth 1821: Get a demo of the Noname API Security platform Spin the wheel at our booth to get a chance to win a copy of Knight's book Attend the book signing with Knight Wednesday, October 27 10-1

About Noname Security Noname Security is the creator of the most powerful, complete, and easy-to-use API security platform, used by Fortune 500 companies to discover, analyze, remediate, and test their legacy and modern APIs. Noname Security is privately held, with headquarters in Palo Alto (News - Alert), California, and an office in Tel Aviv. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006184/en/

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[October 26, 2021] Schwab Declares Common Stock Dividend and Declares Preferred Stock Dividends

The Board of Directors of The Charles Schwab Corporation at its meeting today declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.18 per common share. The dividend is payable November 26, 2021 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 12, 2021. In addition, the Board of Directors also declared dividends on the following series of outstanding preferred stock, payable December 1, 2021 to stockholders of record as of the close of business on November 16, 2021:







Preferred Stock Series Dividend Per Share Dividend Per Depositary Share 5.95% Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series D Dividend Period: September 1-November 30 $14.88 $0.372000 5.00% Fixed to Floating Rate Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series F Dividend Period: June 1-November 30 $2,500.00 $25.000000 5.375% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series G Dividend Period: September 1-November 30 $1,343.75 $13.437500 4.000% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series H Dividend Period: September 1-November 30 $1,000.00 $10.000000 4.000% Fixed-Rate Reset Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series I Dividend Period: September 1-November 30 $1,000.00 $10.000000 4.450% Non-Cumulative Perpetual Preferred Stock, Series J Dividend Period: September 1-November 30 $11.13 $0.278250

About Charles Schwab The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE: SCHW) is a leading provider of financial services, with 32.7 million active brokerage accounts, 2.2 million corporate retirement plan participants, 1.6 million banking accounts, and approximately $7.61 trillion in client assets. Through its operating subsidiaries, the company provides a full range of wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services to individual investors and independent investment advisors. Its broker-dealer subsidiaries, Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., TD Ameritrade, Inc., and TD Ameritrade Clearing, Inc., (members SIPC, www.sipc.org), and their affiliates offer a complete range of investment services and products including an extensive selection of mutual funds; financial planning and investment advice; retirement plan and equity compensation plan services; referrals to independent, fee-based investment advisors; and custodial, operational and trading support for independent, fee-based investment advisors through Schwab Advisor Services. Its primary banking subsidiary, Charles Schwab Bank, SSB (member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender), provides banking and lending services and products. More information is available at www.aboutschwab.com. TD Ameritrade, Inc. and TD Ameritrade Clearing, Inc. are separate but affiliated companies and subsidiaries of TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation. TD Ameritrade Holding Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Charles Schwab Corporation. TD Ameritrade is a trademark jointly owned by TD Ameritrade IP Company, Inc. and The Toronto-Dominion Bank. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006294/en/

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[October 26, 2021] RECONAFRICA ALERT: Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. f/k/a Lund Enterprises Corp. Investors with Substantial Losses Have Opportunity to Lead Class Action Lawsuit - RECAF; LGDOF

Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers of Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. f/k/a Lund Enterprises Corp. ("ReconAfrica") (OTCMKTS: RECAF; LGDOF) publicly traded securities between February 28, 2019 and September 7, 2021, inclusive (the "Class Period") have until December 27, 2021 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in Muller v. Reconnaissance Energy Africa Ltd. f/k/a Lund Enterprises Corp., No. 21-cv-05910 (E.D.N.Y.), the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit. Commenced on October 25, 2021, the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit charges ReconAfrica as well as certain of its top officials with violations of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit, please provide your information by clicking here. You can also contact attorney J.C. Sanchez of Robbins Geller by calling 800/449-4900 or via e-mail at [email protected]. Lead plaintiff motions for the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit must be filed with the court no later than December 27, 2021.



CASE ALLEGATIONS: ReconAfrica purports to engage in the identification, exploration, and development of oil and/or gas assets in Namibia and Botswana, including in the Kalahari Desert and other fragile areas. The ReconAfrica class action lawsuit alleges that, throughout the Class Period, defendants made false and misleading statements and failed to disclose: (i) ReconAfrica's plan for using unconventional means for energy extraction (including fracking) in the fragile Kavango area; (ii) that ReconAfrica would begin unlicensed drilling tests; (iii) that ReconAfrica would illegally use water for well testing; (iv) that ReconAfrica would illegally store used water in unlined pools; (v) that ReconAfrica would skirt Namibian law and hire an inadequate and inappropriate consultant; (vi) that, as a result, ReconAfrica risked future well, drilling, and water-related licenses in Namibia and Botswana; (vii) that, contrary to its representations, ReconAfrica did not reach out nor provide adequate information (including in relevant local languages) through accessible means to those to be impacted by its testing and potential energy extraction; (viii) that ReconAfrica's interests are in the Owambo Basin, not the so-called Kavango Basin; (ix) that ReconAfrica has continuously engaged in stock pumping; and (x) as a result of the foregoing, defendants' public statements were materially false and/or misleading at all relevant times.

THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased ReconAfrica securities during the Class Period to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery of the ReconAfrica class action lawsuit is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff. ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER RUDMAN & DOWD LLP: With 200 lawyers in 9 offices nationwide, Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is the largest U.S. law firm representing investors in securities class actions. Robbins Geller attorneys have obtained many of the largest shareholder recoveries in history, including the largest securities class action recovery ever - $7.2 billion - in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. The 2020 ISS Securities Class Action Services Top 50 Report ranked Robbins Geller first for recovering $1.6 billion for investors last year, more than double the amount recovered by any other securities plaintiffs' firm. Please visit http://www.rgrdlaw.com for more information. Attorney advertising.

Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices. View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20211026006308/en/

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[October 26, 2021] AgJunction Announces Mailing of Information Circular and Proxy Statement for Special Meeting

The AgJunction Board of Directors unanimously recommends shareholders vote FOR the Arrangement well in advance of the November 22, 2021 deadline

The all-cash consideration of CAD $0.75 per share represents a significant premium of 60% to unaffected closing price on October 7, 2021, the last trading day before announcement SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., Oct. 26, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AgJunction Inc. (TSX: AJX) ("AgJunction" or the "Corporation"), is pleased to announce that it has filed on SEDAR and mailed to shareholders, the information circular of AgJunction dated October 21, 2021 and related proxy materials (collectively, the "Meeting Materials") prepared in connection with a special meeting (the "Meeting") of common shareholders of AgJunction (the "AgJunction Shareholders") to be held at 10:00 am (Scottsdale time) on November 24, 2021 at the offices of AgJunction at 9105 E Del Comino Drive, Suite 115, Scottsdale, Arizona, USA. The record date for the Meeting is set at the close of business on October 21, 2021. The Meeting is being held pursuant to an interim order from the Court of Queens Bench of Alberta obtained on October 19, 2021. At the Meeting, AgJunction Shareholders will be asked to consider, and if deemed advisable, to pass a special resolution (the "Arrangement Resolution") approving a statutory arrangement (the "Arrangement") pursuant to Section 193 of the Business Corporations Act (Alberta), which provides for the acquisition by Kubota Corporation or a wholly-owned subsidiary thereof (the "Purchaser" or "Kubota") of all the outstanding common shares of AgJunction for cash consideration (the "Consideration") of CAD $0.75 per common share (the "Transaction"), to be completed by way of a plan of arrangement. The Board unanimously recommends that AgJunction Shareholders vote their AgJunction shares in favour of the Arrangement. "This Arrangement is the successful culmination of a lengthy and comprehensive review of strategic alternatives," commented Lori Ell, Chair of AgJunction's Board of Directors (the "Board"). "In excess of 40 potentially interested parties were contacted to determine their interest level in pursuing a transaction with AgJunction. The board also considered financing options, which were determined very likely to be materially dilutive without necessarily guaranteeing eventual liquidity for our shareholders. This Transaction offers the AgJunction Shareholders compelling cash value for their AgJunction shares. The Meeting Materials contain important information regarding the Transaction, how AgJunction Shareholders can vote their shares at the Meeting and a summary of the events leading up to the Transaction, including the reasons that led AgJunction's Board to unanimously determine that the Transaction is fair to AgJunction Shareholders and is in the best interests of AgJunction. AgJunction Shareholders are strongly urged to read the Meeting Materials. The Arrangement Agreement and Shareholder Support Under the terms of the arrangement agreement entered into between Kubota Corporation and AgJunction dated October 7, 2021 in respect of the Arrangement (the "Arrangement Agreement"), Kubota will acquire all of the issued and outstanding common shares of AgJunction for CAD $0.75 per common share in an all-cash transaction with a total equity value, on a fully diluted basis, of approximately CAD $91 million. Each of the senior officers and directors of AgJunction who own AgJunction shares and who collectively hold 4.5% of the outstanding AgJunction shares, and IGC Holding LP, a significant AgJunction Shareholder who holds 15.6% of the outstanding AgJunction shares, together holding common shares representing in aggregate 20.1% of the outstanding AgJunction shares as of the record date for the Meeting, have entered into support and voting agreements with the Purchaser, pursuant to which they have agreed to vote in favour of the Arrangement Resolution. Reasons for the Arrangement In making its determination to recommend that AgJunction Shareholders vote in favour of the Arrangement Resolution, the Board considered, among other things, the ?following factors, as more fully described in the Meeting Materials:? Strategic Alternatives and Business Objectives. While the Board remained positive with respect to the long-term prospects of the Corporation and its strategic business plan, management and target market, after a comprehensive review of the Corporations strategic alternatives, including remaining an independent publicly-traded company and continuing to pursue the Corporation's strategic plan on a stand-alone basis, and after contacting in excess of 40 potentially interested parties in pursuing a strategc transaction with AgJunction, the Board determined that the Arrangement is the best alternative available to the Corporation. In particular, to achieve the Corporations strategic plan, the Corporation requires significant available capital and potential access to additional capital on a go-forward basis. The Arrangement will provide the Corporation with an enhanced platform and support to enable the Corporation to execute on its strategic plan. Given the current market dynamics, should the Corporation not pursue the Arrangement and instead complete the financing necessary to pursue the Corporations strategic plan, such financing is very likely to be materially dilutive to AgJunction Shareholders and not alleviate the natural execution risk that exists with any growth-oriented strategic plan.









While the Board remained positive with respect to the long-term prospects of the Corporation and its strategic business plan, management and target market, after a comprehensive review of the Corporations strategic alternatives, including remaining an independent publicly-traded company and continuing to pursue the Corporation's strategic plan on a stand-alone basis, and after contacting in excess of 40 potentially interested parties in pursuing a strategc transaction with AgJunction, the Board determined that the Arrangement is the best alternative available to the Corporation. In particular, to achieve the Corporations strategic plan, the Corporation requires significant available capital and potential access to additional capital on a go-forward basis. The Arrangement will provide the Corporation with an enhanced platform and support to enable the Corporation to execute on its strategic plan. Given the current market dynamics, should the Corporation not pursue the Arrangement and instead complete the financing necessary to pursue the Corporations strategic plan, such financing is very likely to be materially dilutive to AgJunction Shareholders and not alleviate the natural execution risk that exists with any growth-oriented strategic plan. Premium to AgJunction Shareholders. The Consideration, being CAD $0.75 in cash per common share, ?to be received by the AgJunction Shareholders under the Arrangement represents a premium ?of approximately 60% to the closing price of the common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange on October 7, ??2021, the last trading day prior to the announcement of the Arrangement, and a 57% premium ?to the 30-day volume-weighted average trading price of the common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange as of ?October 7, 2021.





The Consideration, being CAD $0.75 in cash per common share, ?to be received by the AgJunction Shareholders under the Arrangement represents a premium ?of approximately 60% to the closing price of the common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange on October 7, ??2021, the last trading day prior to the announcement of the Arrangement, and a 57% premium ?to the 30-day volume-weighted average trading price of the common shares on the Toronto Stock Exchange as of ?October 7, 2021. Liquidity and Certainty of Value. The Arrangement provides AgJunction Shareholders with immediate liquidity and certainty of value that is not ?subject to market fluctuations, and an ability for AgJunction Shareholders to redeploy such ?cash in alternative investments?.

The Meeting

The Arrangement Resolution must be approved by not less than two-thirds of the votes cast by the AgJunction Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting. The Arrangement Resolution must also be approved by a simple majority of the votes cast by AgJunction Shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the Meeting, excluding those AgJunction Shareholders whose votes are required to be excluded in determining minority approval pursuant to Multilateral Instrument 61-101  Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions, as further described in the Meeting Materials. AgJunction intends to hold the Meeting in person. However, in view of the current COVID-19 pandemic, the Corporation asks that, in considering whether to attend the Meeting in person, AgJunction Shareholders follow the instructions of Arizona Department of Health Services (https://www.azdhs.gov/). The Corporation strongly encourages AgJunction Shareholders to vote their common shares via proxy rather than attending the Meeting in person, particularly if they are experiencing any of the described COVID-19 symptoms of fever, cough or difficulty breathing. Registered AgJunction Shareholders and proxyholders who nonetheless wish to attend the Meeting in person may be subject to health screening at the entrance to the Meeting and will be asked to socially distance themselves from others at the Meeting. Your vote is important. Whether or not you plan to attend the Meeting, we encourage you to vote promptly. Shareholder Questions and Assistance

Shareholders who have questions regarding the Arrangement or require assistance with voting may contact AgJunctions proxy solicitation agent, Kingsdale Advisors, by telephone at 1-800-749-9890 (toll-free in North America) or at 416-867-2272 (for collect calls outside of North America) or by email at [email protected]. About AgJunction

AgJunction Inc. is a global leader of advanced guidance and autosteering solutions for precision agriculture applications. Its technologies are critical components in over 30 of the worlds leading precision Ag manufacturers and solution providers and it owns or licenses over 200 patents and patents pending. AgJunction markets its solutions under leading brand names including Novariant, Wheelman, Whirl and Handsfreefarm and is committed to advancing its vision by bringing affordable hands-free farming to every farm, regardless of terrain or size. AgJunction is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is listed on the TSX under the symbol "AJX." For more information, please go to AgJunction.com. Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking information and forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws and is based on the expectations, estimates and projections of management of AgJunction as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise stated. The use of any of the words "expect", "anticipate", "continue", "estimate", "objective", "ongoing", "may", "will", "project", "should", "believe", "plans", "intends" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking information. In particular, this press release contains, without limitation, forward-looking information and statements pertaining to: the Transaction and the anticipated timing of required court and shareholder approvals; mailing of the Meeting Materials related to the Meeting and the timing of the Meeting; the anticipated benefits of the Transaction for AgJunction shareholders; the ability of the parties to satisfy the other conditions to, and to complete, the Transaction; and the anticipated timing for the closing of the Transaction. With respect to the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, AgJunction has made assumptions regarding, among other things, that the Transaction will be completed on the terms contemplated by the Arrangement Agreement; the ability of the parties to receive, in a timely manner and on satisfactory terms, the necessary court, shareholder, stock exchange and other third party approvals; the ability of the parties to satisfy, in a timely manner, the other conditions to the closing of the Transaction; and other expectations and assumptions concerning the Transaction. Although AgJunction believes that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements contained in this press release, and the assumptions on which such forward-looking statements are made, are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements included in this press release, as there can be no assurance that the plans, intentions or expectations upon which the forward-looking statements are based will occur. By their nature, forward-looking statements involve numerous assumptions, known and unknown risks and uncertainties that contribute to the possibility that predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not occur, which may cause AgJunction's actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any estimates or projections of future performance or results expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, without limitation, completion of the Transaction is subject to a number of conditions which are typical for transactions of this nature, certain of which are outside the control of AgJunction, failure to satisfy any of these conditions, the emergence of a superior proposal or the failure to obtain approval of AgJunction's shareholders may result in the termination of the Arrangement Agreement. As a consequence, actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned that the forgoing lists of factors are not exhaustive. Additional information on these and other factors that could affect AgJunction's operations and financial results are included in reports on file with Canadian securities regulatory authorities and may be accessed through the SEDAR website (www.sedar.com) and at AgJunction's website (AgJunction.com). Furthermore, the forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as at the date of this press release and AgJunction does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. This release does not constitute an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell securities. Shareholders are advised to review any documents that may be filed with securities regulatory authorities and any subsequent announcements because they will contain important information regarding the Transaction and the terms and conditions thereof. Contact: Media

AgJunction Inc.

[email protected] Investor Relations

Gateway Investor Relations

Cody Slach or Cody Cree

1-949-574-3860

[email protected]



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An overnight deadly gunfire report confirms the KCMO 4th quarter violence spike.

Here's the report . . .



Homicide 500 block of E 105th St

Tonight just after 9:30pm officers were called to 500 E 105th Street in regard to a shooting. Upon arrival they located the victim, an adult male, outside in the parking lot who appeared to be suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to the hospital by EMS. The victim was pronounced deceased at the hospital.



Detectives and Crime Scene Personnel have responded to the scene. They will be processing the scene for evidence. They will also be speaking to any potential witnesses.



Detectives are asking anyone who may have information to call them at 816-234-5043. Or if you would like to remain anonymous you can do so by calling the Tips Hotline at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to an arrest in this case.

Read more on this shooting and more overnight violence via www.TonysKansasCity.com news links . . .

Man shot in parking lot, dies at hospital Kansas City, Missouri police are investigating a deadly shooting on the city's south side Monday night.It happened near E. 105th St. and Holmes around 9:30 p.m.Police found a man shot in a parking lot. He was taken to the hospital, where he died.There is no suspect information at this time.If you know anything that can help police, call the Crimestoppers TIPS Hotline at 816-474-TIPS.

One dead, one injured in KCK double shooting Monday night Clouds are going to be lingering around once again today with highs reaching into the upper 50s and lower 60s. Tonight, our next weather system will be moving in, increasing chances for rain showers and a few rumbles of thunder. Get ready for some soggy conditions on Wednesday!

Kansas City police investigating Monday night homicide KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The Kansas City, Missouri, Police Department is investigating the city's latest homicide. Just after 9:30 p.m., officers were called to 500 E 105th Street on a shooting call. When they arrived they found a man outside in a parking lot suffering from gunshot wounds.

3 shot, 2 dead in shootings on both sides of state line from overnight KANSAS CITY (KCTV) -- A total of three people were shot, with two of them dying, in shootings on both sides of the state line overnight in Kansas City, MO, and Kansas City, KS. KCK police responded just after 10:30 p.m. Monday to North 46th Street and Farrow Avenue in response to a double shooting.

Developing . . .
An upcoming conference from an influential local organization deserves consideration from Kansas City residents given that the arguments under discussion will inevitably impact taxpayers.



Read closely and notice the continued push/movement for payback across the nation and in our cowtown . . .



The Urban Summit of Kansas City will hold its 14th Annual Conference November 6th , 2021 with the theme: Is Equity Enough?

The mission of the Urban Summit is advocacy and to develop initiatives to foster community relations, enhance economic growth and improve the quality of life in the urban core.



The 14th Annual Conference will be held on Saturday, November 6th beginning at 8:30am at the Penn Valley Community College 3201 Southwest Trafficway in Kansas City, MO.



This years conference will focus on the theme: Is Equity Enough?



Special guest speaker for the conference will be Kamm Howard, National Co-Chair, National Coalition of Blacks for Reparations in America



Kamm Howard is a Chicago businessman and real estate investor. Kamm has owned and managed over 100 residential units in the Englewood, Auburn Gresham, Washington Park and Roseland communities. In additional to residential units, he currently owns retail and office spaces that houses the businesses of 17 Black entrepreneurs in the Roseland community.



Kamm recently authored a manual, Laying the Foundation for Local Reparations: A Guide for Providing National Symmetry for Local Reparations Efforts. This document is used to inform the local reparations movement across the United States



The Urban Summit was convened in 2008 by Bishop James Tindall Sr. It brought together elected officials and urban residents to discuss economic development, crime and substance abuse, education, health care, neighborhood/housing and integration.



The 14th Annual Urban Summit Conference is completely free and will convene Saturday, November 6th at the Penn Valley Community College.



To register log on to urbansummitkcmo.com

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Developing . . .


Today the aftermath of this tragic story resonated across the metro . . .

Here's a peek at local reactions to one of the most brutal crimes of the year . . . So far . . .

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com news links . . .

Family wants justice after man allegedly killed by Kansas City landlord LIBERTY, Mo - Forty-five-year-old Gordon McBeth pleaded not guilty to second-degree murder in the stabbing death of 28-year-old Darryl Gilland. It happened Friday at a home on North Topping Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri, where Gilland lived and McBeth was the landlord. Gilland and girlfriend Samantha Pohlman just moved into the home a week before he was killed.

Woman says fiance's argument with landlord over space heater led to murder KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Clay County prosecutors charged a landlord Monday for allegedly stabbing and killing one of his tenants. Gordon McBeth now faces second-degree murder charges in the death of 28-year-old Darryl Gilland. Police say the incident began as an argument between the two Friday afternoon on north Topping Avenue in the Northland.

Family members devastated after landlord is accused of killing a tenant over heating complaint KANSAS CITY, MO (KCTV) -- A landlord is facing charges after investigators say he stabbed a tenant to death over a heating complaint. Gordon McBeth is charged with second degree murder and armed criminal action. Darryl "Brent" Gilland Jr.'s family members are devastated and in shock that a tenant's request could turn deadly.

Developing . . .
Veda Yowell, 90, of Clinton, passed away on Wednesday, November 17, 2021, at IU West Hospital in Avon, surrounded by her loving family. Veda was born in Parke County on August 30, 1931, to Harry and Angeline Ladiha Crossley. She married her husband, Fred, on July 22, 1949, and together, they
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BOISE, Idaho (AP)  A suspect is in custody after two people were killed and four injured  including a police officer  in a shooting at a shopping mall Monday in Boise, Idaho, police said.

At a news conference, authorities said officers exchanged gunfire with the suspect.

Police on Monday evening said in a news release that the suspect was in critical condition at a hospital and that the officer who was hurt had been treated and released. Police haven't released any other information about the victims, officer or the suspect.

The mall had been secured by Monday evening, and police said it would remain closed as the investigation continues.

Boise Police Chief Ryan Lee said the shooting was reported to law enforcement about 1:50 p.m. on Monday  including a report that one person was shot and down at that time.

When the officers arrived, they spotted someone who matched the description of the suspect.

There was an exchange of gunfire that ensued shortly thereafter, resulting in the officer's injury, as well as the suspect being taken into custody, Lee said. He said investigators believe there was only one shooter, and there is no ongoing danger to the public.

We really cannot at this time speak to any motivation behind it, Lee said, calling any speculation premature.

I cannot stress enough how traumatic this event is for the community at large, as well as for those that were witnesses, or are the families of those involved or involved themselves, Lee said.

After the shooting, several witnesses stood in the rain outside the entrance to Macys  one of five large department stores at the mall  waiting to be interviewed by police or told they could leave. Patrol cars from several agencies, ambulances and fire trucks filled a section of the mall parking lot. Officers from the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were assisting in the investigation.

About a quarter of a mile away, officers closed part of a road near a busy intersection so they could investigate a second crime scene related to the shooting incident. Officers at the second crime scene declined to answer questions about the investigation other than to confirm it was related to the shooting investigation.

Cheri Gypin, of Boise, was in the mall with a friend where they walk for an hour three or four times a week. She said she heard several large bangs, but thought something had fallen from the ceiling. Then about 60 people, including families pushing strollers, came running at them, some of them shouting that there was an active shooter.

My friend was trying to process it, said Gypin, 60. I just looked at her and said, Weve got to run. So we just ran and kept running until we got to the outer perimeter of the parking lot.

They made their way back to their car, where police told the crowd of people who had fled the mall to leave the parking area.

Investigators were working with hospital officials to notify family members of those injured and killed in the shooting, Lee said.

The shooting between between the suspect and officer will be investigated separately by the Critical Incident Task Force led by the Meridian Police Department, police said Monday evening.

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean asked members of the public and the news media to give the victims and their families privacy as they deal with the trauma of the shooting. She thanked the law enforcement officers, first responders and others she said worked to keep the community safe.

Countless people found themselves in a situation they never would have or should have expected, McLean said, lauding the shopkeepers and others in the mall for reacting so quickly to take care of folks that were there. You showed in a tough and chaotic moment how much you care and what you're willing to do to support and care for strangers.

___

This story has been updated to correct that four people were injured, not six, as previously reported by police.
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The dry season for 2022 is shaping up to be drier and warner than usual.
Comedian Eric Omondi has finally settled on South Sudanese model Monica Ayen as his wife after she emerged Wife Material Ssn 3 winner. Erics choice wasnt expected by most during his announcement. But he poured out his heart to Ayen and promised to marry her and spend the rest of his life with her.





 Monica Ayen -Omondi. CONGRATULATIONS on WINNING my heart, Congratulations on winning the Final Season of #WifeMaterial I promise to Love you with all that I have, I will respect you, I will honor you with all Dignity, I promise to PROTECT you, cant wait to Start a family with you. I cannot wait to make beautiful babies with you

I give you my VOW I WILL MARRY you and Spend the REST of my life with you. Ill stand by you through thick, through thin. I LOVE YOU.

I wouldn't be surprised if I caught Eric Omondi in bed with another woman'- AyenWife Material Ssn 3 contestants-Google

Ayen Speaks

On the flipside, Erics love has been reciprocated by the model; who claims that funny men always attract women; and this makes him susceptible to having multiple women.

However, this doesnt bother her much, as she claims she wouldnt be surprised if she ever finds him with another woman.

I dont like kukazia people. Im a person whos also business minded So, communicate with me. Thats all I wanna do. Lets be honest with each other We can do her both I wouldnt be surprised. Hes a comedian. Hes too funny, he can take you to the bed I wouldnt be so hurt

Despite her sentiments, Ayen claimed that Eric is indeed a good guy.
OSCE SMM monitors in Donetsk on the morning of October 24 resumed regular patrolling after the Russian occupation administration the day before lifted a blockade of the hotel they were staying in.

Thats according to the OSCE Special Monitoring Missions daily report No. 250/2021, posted on the OSCE website on October 25.

"The SMM observed that the gathering in front of the hotel where Mission members reside in non-government-controlled Donetsk city ended on 23 October. The SMM resumed its regular operations on 24 October," the report said.

According to the document, on October 23, a mass gathering continued outside the said hotel. For security reasons, there continued to be no patrol movement in and out of its premises.

On the afternoon on 23 October, two protesters (men, in their twenties) who introduced themselves as representatives of the wider group of protesters, informed two Mission members that as a consequence of a worsening situation related to COVID-19 in Donetsk City, all public gatherings were suspended and that the protest would continue online," the report said.

By October 24, the SMM observed all tents had been removed except two large, military-style tents in front of the hotel, the mobile kitchen, as well as one car marked police parked near the western entrance driveway of the hotel, but not blocking it.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, on October 13, servicemen with the Joint Forces near the town of Zolote (a part of Luhansk region controlled by Ukraine government forces) detained Andriy Kosyak, a resident of Alchevsk, member of the illegal armed group LPR who obtained Russian citizenship as part of a massive passportization campaign pursued by Russia in the occupied territories. The suspect was detained as he was reconnoitering the area near the abandoned defense positions of Ukraine forces, disguising his mission as demining works.

Following this, on October 15, an organized gathering outside the Park Inn hotel in the occupied Donetsk where the OSCE SMM office is located, prevented the monitors from leaving the hotel premises, thus effectively blocking the patrolling efforts. The protesters demanded that Ukraine authorities release Andriy Kosyak.

The European Union has stated it will raise the issue of blocking the SMMs work in occupied Donetsk at OSCE meetings in Vienna and on a bilateral basis with Russia. OSCE Chairperson-in-Office Ann Linde and OSCE Secretary General Helga Schmid called for unblocking the SMMs work.

im
Discount carrier Qatar Airways is opening direct flights on the route Doha - Odesa. The airline will fly from Odesa International Airport to Hamad International Airport in Qatars capital Doha three times a week starting December 9.

Thats according to the Odesa International Airport press service, Ukrinform reports.

Odesa is the first regional airport in Ukraine and the countrys second, after Boryspil International, to welcome Qatar Airways. Passengers will be offered to fly to Doha (Qatar) and experience all the benefits of Qatar Airways' excellent branded service three times a week from December 9: on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the statement reads.

It is noted that Qatar Airways will depart from Odesa at 16:00 local time, and from Doha  at 08:30 local time.

Tickets are already on sale on the airline's website.

im
The National Security and Defense Council (NSDC) of Ukraine at its meeting discussed the issue of establishing a sectoral cybersecurity center of the fuel and energy complex of Ukraine, Ukrinform reports, referring to the NSDCs press service.

"We are at war with the Russian Federation, cyberattacks on our critical energy infrastructure is one of its methods," the press service cited NSDC Secretary Oleksiy Danilov as saying.

Danilov stressed that measures to ensure cybersecurity of the Ukrainian fuel and energy complex are relevant in the context of Ukraine's plan to join the European energy network.

At the meeting, the participants adopted a draft plan for implementing the Cyber Security Strategy of Ukraine, approved by the presidents decree of August 26, 2021, No.447, which will be further submitted to the NSDC for consideration.

In addition, the participants of the meeting approved the protocol of cyber incidents information sharing (TLP-protocol) and their classification (taxonomy), which was developed by the State Service for Special Communications and Information Protection of Ukraine.

The press service also reported that the issues related to the creation of cyber troops in Ukraine and the need for developing a relevant bill were considered.

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The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs will promote the revival of contacts between representatives of the IT industry of Ukraine and Jordan.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (CDTO) Dmytro Senik said this at a meeting with Jordan's Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship Ahmad Al Hanandeh, Ukrinform reports, referring to the MFAs press service.

At the meeting, Senik paid special attention to the potential of the Ukrainian IT sector in the areas of software development and applications, training of IT specialists, in particular for the needs of foreign markets.

"The Ukrainian diplomat said about the readiness to promote the revival of contacts between representatives of the IT industry of Ukraine and Jordan, in particular through the mechanisms of the Exporters and Investors Council under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine," the reports says.

As reported, on October 25, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine (CDTO) Dmytro Senik and the leadership of the Jordanian IT Association Int@j signed a memorandum of understanding between the Exporters and Investors Council and the Jordanian association

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Ukraine's Deputy Foreign Minister Dmytro Senik has met with Jordan's Agriculture Minister Khaled Hneifat as part of his visit to the Kingdom, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry has reported.

According to the report, Senik emphasized Ukraine's significant potential in the agricultural sector and expressed hope for intensifying cooperation with Jordan in the field of agriculture.

Both parties discussed in detail cooperation between the two countries in agriculture and outlined the prospects for expanding cooperation, including through opening new markets for Ukrainian food products and Ukraine's participation in strengthening Jordan's food security.

op
A meeting of Normandy Four foreign ministers will eventually take place, while the leaders summit remains in jeopardy.

Executive chief of the Institute of Eastern European Security, Yulia Osmolovska, expressed the opinion at a panel show on Dom TV on Monday, October 25.

"From my perspective, the meeting of foreign ministers is a kind of compromise and concession that Russia will be ready to make. And everything will be limited to this meeting. Today there are no signs allowing us to expect a summit of Normandy leaders, based on the tough position the Russian Federation has taken. Their main argument is that Ukraine failed to fulfill the agreements reached at the Paris Summit in 2019 so if no results have been achieved there is no sense to meet But in fact, this is totally not the case, the expert said.

Meanwhile, France and Germany are interested in holding the Normandy Four summit.

"And it is logical for Merkel to make a kind of inventory of results of her work in office and pass this package to a new German chancellor," Osmolovska added.

The expert recalled a phone call of the leaders of France, Germany, and Ukraine.

"The day after that there was the same call with Mr. Putin. That is, France and Germany are putting certain pressure on the Russian Federation to hold this summit. And there is an argument to back this because even if there is some blocking of progress towards any agreements, it is still necessary to meet at least to understand what this blocking is about and how to overcome it," she said.

And Russia's current position on the alleged lack of results of the Paris summit is simply about shifting away from talks, Osmolovska added.

"Russia has now chosen a strategy to avoid negotiations. That is, if it is not at the negotiating table, there is no progress," she explained.

But at least a meeting of the N4 foreign ministers can be expected.

"And we know from the Russian media that it will most likely take place online. And following this meeting, a final document should be drafted. If some consensus is reached at the level of foreign ministers, we will expect that, probably, the summit of the leaders will indeed take place. But so far the Russian side is sending us all the signals that the summit wont happen," Osmolovska summed up.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, on October 11, German Chancellor Angela Merkel and Frances President Emmanuel Macron called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to make progress on the issue of holding the Normandy Four summit.

The interlocutors agreed to instruct their foreign ministers to meet as soon as possible.

Commenting on the statement of Ukrainian Minister for Foreign Affairs Dmytro Kuleba who said Kyiv was ready for such meeting, Russian top diplomat Sergei Lavrov claimed President Vladimir Putin had never promised that the foreign ministers would meet but only "promised to instruct (Lavrov - ed.) to consider what should be done to hold such a meeting."

Kuleba, in turn, called out Lavrov's argument a "weak excuse" for refusing to hold the foreign ministerial, adding that the Russians then dont understand why no one believes their words anymore."

im
If parliamentary elections were set to be held in the near future, the Servant of the People, European Solidarity, Opposition Platform - for Life, and Motherland would gain the most support.

Thats according to a survey run by the Razumkov Center, Ukrinform reports.

If the elections to the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine took place in the near future, the Servant of the People party would receive the greatest support (14% of all respondents or 22% of those who will take part in the elections and have already made their electoral choice). Another 10% and 16% of respondents, respectively, are ready to vote for the European Solidarity. Some 8% and 13%, respectively, would cast ballots for the Opposition Platform - for Life (OPZZh ) party, and 7% and 11%  for the Motherland party, the poll says.

Only 4% of all respondents or 6% of those who have made their choice are set to vote for the Nashi party; 4% and 6%, respectively  for the Strength and Honor party, 2% and 4%  for Groysmans Ukrainian Strategy, 2% and 3%  for Civic Position, 2% and 2.5%  for the Radical Party of Oleh Lyashko, 2% and 2%  for Serhiy Prytula's party, 1% and 2%  for the Svoboda, 1% and 2%  for Sharijs Party, 1% and 1%  for Vitaly Kltschko's UDAR party, while other political forces would gain below 1%.

At the same time, sociologists note that, against late July - early August 2021, the electoral support of the ruling Servant of the People party decreased from 17% to 14% among all respondents. Compared to January 2021, the level of electoral support of the OPZZh party dropped from 14% to 8%, which can be partly explained by the emergence in the poll of the Nashi party, which focuses on the same target audience as the OPZZh.

Read also: Zelensky remains leader in presidential rating

Also, compared to January 2021, the electoral support of the Voice party and the Opposition Bloc decreased at a statistically significant level (from 2% to 0.3% and from 0.9% to 0.3%, respectively), which also can be partly explained by the appearance in the questionnaire of Serhiy Prytula's Party and the Nashi party.

The level of electoral support of other political parties has not changed at a statistically significant level since year-start.

The survey was conducted October 14-20 through front door face-to-face interviews. A total of 2,018 respondents aged 18 and over were interviewed in all regions of Ukraine, except for Crimea and the occupied territories of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, by a sample representing the adult population. The theoretical sampling error (excluding the design effect) is within 2.3% with a probability of 0.95.

im
The Ministry of Health will further expand the list of occupations where the employees are obliged to undergo vaccination for COVID-19.

Thats according to Health Minister Viktor Liashko who spoke at Savik Shuster's Freedom of Speech panel show on Friday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

"Today we have a health ministry order on a certain list of professions where vaccination against coronavirus is mandatory. It includes educators and officials with the central executive bodies. Next, we are developing a draft order, which is yet to be approved. The new list will additionally include social workers, employees of all state enterprises, institutions, and organizations, as well as those employed in the areas critically important for our countrys economy," Liashko said.

As Ukrinform reported earlier, the Ministry of Health approved a list of industries and organizations whose employees are subject to mandatory vaccination against COVID-19.

Meanwhile, over the past 24 hours, Ukraine health officials reported 23,229 new daily COVID-19 cases and 483 corona-related deaths.

im
The Amsterdam Court of Appeal, which heard the Scythian gold collection case on the merits, judged on October 26 that the collection of Scythian gold shall be returned to Ukraine, thus upholding the ruling of the first-instance court.

Thats according to an Ukrinform correspondent in The Hague.

The judgment was read out at an open court session.

The ruling and the press release are yet to be published on the Courts official website.

Read also: Unique Scythian glass pendants found in Poltava region

However, four Crimean museums  the Central Tauric Museum, the Kerch Historical and Cultural Reserve, the Bakhchisaray Historical and Cultural Reserve, and the Tauric Chersonesos National Reserve  have the right to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court in The Hague.

Background

The collection of Scythian gold had been delivered to the Allard Pearson Museum in Amsterdam as part of the exhibition entitled Crimea  the Gold and Secrets of the Black Sea prior to the illegal annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation.

On December 14, 2016, the Amsterdam District Court ruled that the exhibits of the Crimean museums had to be returned to Ukraine. The judgment was delivered pursuant to the UNESCO convention, according to which the art treasures should be returned to a sovereign state, which provided them for a temporary exhibition.

On March 28, 2017, the Amsterdam Court of Appeal received an appeal against the ruling from the representatives of Crimean museums.

On October 28, 2020, the Amsterdam Court of Appeal granted Ukraine's motion to disqualify a judge in the Scythian gold case due to confirmation of the presiding judge's link with the lawyers of Crimean museums which could indicate his bias.

On April 22, 2021, the parties held a final debate in the Amsterdam Court of Appeal.

Currently, the collection in question, which was brought to the Netherlands before Crimea was occupied by Russia, is being kept in the Allard Pearson Museum in Amsterdam.

im
UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, welcomes the recent announcement by Pakistani authorities to ease the movement of people and goods through official border points with Afghanistan. This follows reports of border disruptions that have affected trade and regular population movements, including Afghan civilians who may need to seek safety.

Disruptions have left many Afghans, including women, children and those needing urgent medical attention, stranded for weeks at the Chaman-Spin Boldak crossing between the two countries. This border has remained closed for the past three weeks.

The new steps help reduce fears and risks that many will be pushed into the hands of human smugglers and traffickers, with deadly consequences, when official cross-border channels are shut.

Nearly 700,000 Afghans have been internally displaced by the conflict this year  with some 3.5 million people in total uprooted throughout the country. An estimated 150,000 formerly displaced Afghans have also returned to their places of origin in 2021, but the situation inside the country remains dire.

Iran and Pakistan together host almost 90 per cent of all Afghan refugees worldwide and have been doing so for more than four decades. Increased international support is urgently needed to allow continued protection for more than 1.4 million registered Afghan refugees already in Pakistan, and nearly 800,000 in Iran. Both countries also host a large population of unregistered Afghans. UNHCR calls on Afghanistans neighbouring countries to continue extending protection for those seeking safety.

Inside Afghanistan, UNHCR continues to deliver much needed humanitarian assistance to displaced Afghans. Nearly half a million people have received UNHCR assistance so far this year including tents, emergency shelter kits, food rations, blankets, kitchen sets, stoves, solar panels, solar lanterns, insulation kits, cash for the most vulnerable and other aid items.

UNHCR is also arranging further airlifts of humanitarian supplies into Afghanistan in addition to the three flights that recently landed in Termez, Uzbekistan. As we continue to scale up our humanitarian response, more resources are urgently needed ahead of the harsh winter months.

In addition to emergency relief for the displaced, UNHCR also continues to work in communities where former refugees have returned by investing in infrastructure including, education, health, livelihoods and shelter.

UNHCR appeals to the international community to urgently increase financial contributions to displaced Afghans both within and outside the country, who remain extremely vulnerable and desperately require support to survive the coming winter.
Burundian returnees pictured in Higiro village, northern Burundi, November 2018.  UNHCR/Georgina Goodwin

A convoy carrying 343 Burundian refugees returned to the country from Uganda on Monday. This brings the number of refugees who have voluntarily returned to Burundi this year to more than 60,000. Roughly half of that total have returned from Tanzania, with the rest coming from Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Kenya and, since the beginning of October, from Uganda.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is assisting the returns and has conducted assessments to ensure the decision to return is voluntary, free and informed and that repatriation takes place in safety and dignity. Each week, convoys arrive in Burundi with around 1,500 people.

On arrival at one of five reception centres, returning families are given household items and cash assistance to help them restart their lives. However, more support is needed to achieve sustainable reintegration for the individuals returning as well as for communities in Burundi receiving them. Often the required social and economic infrastructure is lacking.

There are many situations of protracted international displacement around the world. Burundi is a rare example in which significant numbers of refugees are returning home. However, without meaningful investment in the return areas to support reintegration, the cycle of displacement could be repeated.

UNHCR is calling for more funding for the 2021 Joint Refugee Return and Reintegration Plan launched at the beginning of the year, which outlines the requirements of 19 humanitarian and development partners to support the returns, sustainable reintegration and community resilience. As an example of our efforts to support communities, UNHCR broke ground last week on Burundis first National COVID-19 Prevention and Treatment Centre located in Cankuzo Province, where many refugees are returning in the east of the country.

Of the US$104.3 million, only some 10 per cent of the funding needed to support return and reintegration in Burundi has been committed, despite the increased numbers going home.

Since 2017, when the assisted voluntary return programme began, over 180,000 Burundian refugees have returned home with a notable increase in returns since July 2020 after the countrys national elections.

Nearly 270,000 Burundian refugees remain in exile, generously hosted by Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, DRC, Kenya, Mozambique, Malawi, South Africa and Zambia.

For more information on this topic, please contact:
Todd Thurman says beginning at age 13, he was repeatedly sexually assaulted by his Boy Scouts leader. Now 55, he is critical of the Boy Scouts of America mass settlement offer.
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A boy receives a free COVID-19 test at a St. Johns Well Child & Family Center mobile clinic set up outside Walker Temple AME Church in South Los Angeles amid the coronavirus pandemic on July 15, 2020, in Los Angeles, California. (Mario Tama/Getty Images/TNS)
Mrs. Evelyn Holland Reddick Dixon, 81, passed away on Nov. 14, 2021. A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021, at 11 a.m. in the Williams Funeral Home Chapel in Milledgeville. A burial service will be held at 2 p.m. in the Alligood Cemetery in Laurens County. The family wil
Shakeil Channel, a facilities operator, has been named UNOs Employee of the Month for October 2021.



Channel was visited by the UNO Prize Patrol on Friday, Oct. 22, to celebrate the honor.



His nominator noticed Channels problem-solving skills during a work order he fulfilled.



The work request I submitted was assigned to Shakeil. He arrived to address the problem and make the repair the same day it was submitted... Although I told him what others found the problem to be he used his knowledge and skills to determine the correct issue. Others that have looked at the equipment could not determine what was causing the problem.

Joining UNO in 2019, and recently taking on the role of facilities operator, Shakeils responsibilities include supporting the overall heating, cooling, and plumbing for Allwine Hall; the College of Public Affairs and Community Service; and the Milo Bail Student Center. This includes responding to facility-related repair requests in these buildings, which can range from plumbing issues to carpentry fixes.



Shakeil worked safely and left the work area neat and clean. He quickly identified the problem and made the repair in a short amount of time, his nominator said.



While working on the request, his nominator also noted his excellent communication skills.



He is approachable, expresses himself clearly, and goes the extra step to ensure the person he is speaking to understands and is satisfied with his work. He's one of the guys you want on your team."



For being awarded as Employee of the Month, Channel will receive a certificate, hot/cold tumbler, monetary award, two tickets to a UNO sporting event, and use of a designated parking space.







Do you want to submit a nominee for Employee of the Month? Use our newly-launching People Are Everything software to access the Employee of the Month nomination form.

Questions about Employee of the Month? Contact Kristina Hoffmann at kristinahoffmann@unomaha.edu.
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Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped more than 1.7 percent Tuesday, boosted by US gains, as investors welcomed a forecast that Japan's ruling party will secure a majority in general elections

Tokyo, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped more than 1.7 percent Tuesday, boosted by US gains, as investors welcomed a forecast that Japan's ruling party will secure a majority in general elections.

The Nikkei 225 index gained 1.77 percent, or 505.60 points, to close at 29,106.01 while the broader Topix index rose 1.15 percent, or 22.98 points, to 2,018.40.
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MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 26th October, 2021) European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen held a phone conversation with Moldovan President Maia Sandu, reaffirming the European Union's support for Moldova amid the gas supplies crisis.

"Good phone call with @sandumaiamd. We are in regular contact to help Moldova face its gas supply issue. The EU stands with Moldova. Our experts are on the ground to help with the situation. We are currently looking into additional support measures," von der Leyen wrote on Twitter.
New Zealand's government on Tuesday announced mandatory vaccination for workers to stem the spread of the coronavirus, an official said

ANKARA, 26 Oct (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) -:New Zealand's government on Tuesday announced mandatory vaccination for workers to stem the spread of the coronavirus, an official said.

In a statement, the country's Minister for Workplace Relations and Safety Michael Wood said the government is introducing a range of measures to help protect workplaces and workers from COVID-19.

"We're mandating vaccination for workers at businesses where customers need to show COVID-19 Vaccination Certificates to make those workplaces as safe as possible and give confidence to staff and customers," Wood said.

Under the new law non-vaccinated workers will be given a new four-week notice period to get vaccinated before employment can be terminated, he added.

"We know that these changes raise questions around what happens when mandated employees refuse to get vaccinated.

To provide clarity, a new four-week notice period will apply if their employment is terminated if they choose not to be vaccinated and their work requires it," Wood said.

On Friday, New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said that her government set a target of fully vaccinating 90% of the population to end strict coronavirus restrictions in the country.

"Fully vaccinated people will be able to reconnect with family and friends, go to bars and restaurants and do the things they love with greater certainty and confidence," Ardern said.

So far, 87% of the population has gotten the first dose of the coronavirus vaccine, while around 71% are fully vaccinated.
Uzbekistan is ready to include Russian single-dose coronavirus vaccine Sputnik Light in its nationwide immunization effort, Head of the Service for Sanitary and Epidemiological Welfare and Public Health Bakhodir Yusupaliyev told Sputnik on Tuesday

TASHKENT (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 26th October, 2021) Uzbekistan is ready to include Russian single-dose coronavirus vaccine Sputnik Light in its nationwide immunization effort, Head of the Service for Sanitary and Epidemiological Welfare and Public Health Bakhodir Yusupaliyev told Sputnik on Tuesday.

Earlier in October, the Central Asian nation received 12,000 doses of Sputnik Light designed for citizens who will go to work in Russia as part of a pilot program to send 10,000 labor migrants from Uzbekistan to construction sites across Russia.

"We are ready to use Sputnik Light in the country, I do not see any obstacles," Yusupaliyev said when asked about expanding Uzbekistan's vaccine portfolio.

The official noted that single-dose vaccines are very convenient in use, adding that switching to single-dose vaccines would be very helpful.

Uzbekistan launched its nationwide inoculation program in early April, using vaccines by China's Sinovac and Anhui Zhifei Longcom Biopharmaceutical, AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer, as well as Russia's Sputnik V. To date, about 12 million people, or roughly 60% of the population, have been fully vaccinated.
Terming October 27, 1947 as the darkest chapter of Kashmir's recent history, Jammu and Kashmir National Front (JKNF) Tuesday said the international community must take notice of the India's brutal and belligerent military occupation of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), where people have been suffering over the past 75 years

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Terming October 27, 1947 as the darkest chapter of Kashmir's recent history, Jammu and Kashmir National Front (JKNF) Tuesday said the international community must take notice of the India's brutal and belligerent military occupation of the Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), where people have been suffering over the past 75 years.

In a statement on the eve of the "Black Day", the JKNF spokesman Shafiq-ur-Rehman while highlighting the dangerous dimensions of the illegal and forcible occupation of the territory by India said, Kashmiris had terribly suffered under the India's barbaric aggression, both in terms of loss of human life and material devastation, since the Indian occupation forces set their foot on Kashmir's soil.

"Since the people of the UN recognised disputed territory of Jammu and Kashmir continue to bleed profusely under India's belligerent occupation. It would be nothing but a great travesty of justice on the part of the international community to leave the hapless Kashmiris at the mercy of India's ruthless occupation", Rehman said.

Reminding world community of its legal and moral obligations vis--vis Kashmir the spokesman said, the fast deteriorating political and human rights situation in the Indian occupied Kashmir merits urgent attention of the international community that had unfortunately chosen to stay silent on the human rights abuses being committed by the Indian troops in the region.

Rather taking refuge in silence, he said, it was high time that the influential world governments should realize the dangers in Kashmir and play their much-needed role to resolve the dispute in accordance with the UNSC resolutions.

The spokesman also urged the Kashmiri masses to observe 27th October as black day to remind the global community about its responsibilities towards finding a peaceful settlement of the long-running dispute.

Meanwhile in a separate state, the JKNF spokesman condemned in strong terms the coldblooded murder of a youth in Shopian by the Indian occupation forces. Terming it as an incident of target killing, he said that it was unfortunate that the Indian bloodthirsty and trigger-happy forces were deriving pleasure from killing innocent youth and inflicting pain on Kashmiris.
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ABU DHABI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 26th Oct, 2021) The Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority and Alef Education, a global education technology provider, have signed a general framework agreement to raise safety awareness among students in Abu Dhabi.

According to the agreement, a joint framework has been established between the two parties, governing the mutual procedures in a way that enhances safety and civil protection. Consequently, Alef Education will create personalised awareness programmes that can be accessed through its award-winning AI-powered Alef Platform. These lessons will be based on educational topics identified by the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority.

The programmes will be delivered using effective learning techniques and interactive content such as educational and recreational activities. The programme is tailored to suit the needs of different student age groups, enabling them to benefit from the Alef Platform in Abu Dhabi.

Brigadier General Mohamed Ibrahim Al Ameri, Director-General of the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority, stated that the Authority continuously strives to strengthen its partnerships with various governmental and private entities to establish a framework based on the governance of joint procedures between the Authority and its partners.

He highlighted that the current development efforts are being carried out by the Authority to enhance its work system, whether in its basic tasks or those associated with various government agencies. These developments are being monitored by a specialised team following the best international standards.

Geoffrey Alphonso, CEO of Alef Education, said, "We are proud to partner with the Abu Dhabi Civil Defense Authority to raise awareness among students on ways to enhance the safety of citizens. This step is the first of its kind in the education sector in the UAE, and we look forward to contributing through the Alef Platform to support the Authority's efforts aimed at nurturing new generations and spreading the culture of preventive awareness."

The Alef Platform is an award-winning digital learning platform that provides personalised learning experiences for all students, so they learn at their own pace, anytime and anywhere. All public schools in the UAE currently use the AI-powered Alef Platform for students in grades 5-12.
Geneva, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Asia suffered its hottest year on record in 2020, the United Nations said Tuesday ahead of the COP26 summit, with extreme weather taking a heavy toll on the continent's development.

In its annual "State of the Climate in Asia" report, the UN's World Meteorological Organization said every part of the region had been affected.

"Extreme weather and climate change impacts across Asia in 2020 caused the loss of life of thousands of people, displaced millions of others and cost hundreds of billions of Dollars, while wreaking a heavy toll on infrastructure and ecosystems," the WMO said.

"Sustainable development is threatened, with food and water insecurity, health risks and environmental degradation on the rise." The report comes days before COP26, the UN Climate Change Conference being held in Glasgow from Sunday to November 12.

The report also laid bare the total annual average losses due to climate-related hazards.

China suffered an estimated $238 billion, followed by India at $87 billion, Japan with $83 billion and South Korea on $24 billion.

But when the size of the economy is considered, the average annual losses are expected to be as high as 7.9 percent of gross domestic product for Tajikistan, 5.9 percent for Cambodia and 5.8 percent for Laos.

Increased heat and humidity are forecast to lead to an effective loss of outdoor working hours across the continent, with a potential cost of many billions of dollars.

"Weather and climate hazards, especially floods, storms, and droughts, had significant impacts in many countries of the region," said WMO chief Petteri Taalas.

"Combined, these impacts take a significant toll on long-term sustainable development." Many weather and climate-related displacements in Asia are prolonged, with people unable to return home or integrate locally, the report said.

In 2020 floods and storms affected approximately 50 million people in Asia, resulting in more than 5,000 fatalities.

This is below the annual average of the last two decades (158 million people affected and about 15,500 fatalities) "and is testimony to the success of early warning systems in many countries in Asia", with around seven in 10 people covered.

Asia's warmest year on record saw the mean temperature 1.39 degrees Celsius above the 1981-2010 average.

The 38.0 C registered at Verkhoyansk in Russia is provisionally the highest known temperature anywhere north of the Arctic Circle.

In 2020, average sea surface temperatures reached record high values in the Indian, Pacific and Arctic Oceans.

Sea surface temperatures and ocean warming in and around Asia are increasing more than the global average.

They have been warming at more than triple the average in the Arabian sea, and parts of the Arctic Ocean.

Arctic sea ice minimum extent (after the summer melt) in 2020 was the second lowest on the satellite record since 1979.

There are approximately 100,000 square kilometres of glaciers on the Tibetan Plateau and in the Himalayas -- the largest volumes of ice outside the polar regions and the source of 10 major Asian rivers.

"Glacier retreat is accelerating and it is projected that glacier mass will decrease by 20 percent to 40 percent by 2050, affecting the lives and livelihoods of about 750 million people in the region," the report said.

"This has major ramifications for global sea level, regional water cycles and local hazards such as landslides and avalanches."A quarter of Asia's mangroves are in Bangladesh. However, the tropical storm-exposed country's mangroves decreased by 19 percent from 1992 to 2019, the report said.
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Sydney, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Coal-rich Australia unveiled a much-delayed 2050 net zero emissions target Tuesday, in a plan that pointedly dodged thorny details or near-term goals ahead of a landmark UN climate summit.

Widely seen as a climate laggard, Australia is one of the world's largest coal and gas exporters.

For the last eight years, its conservative government has resisted action to reduce emissions, routinely approving new coal projects and peddling scepticism about climate change.

Under domestic and international pressure, Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Tuesday announced a shift in approach and acknowledged the "world is changing".

Australians want policy that "does the right thing on climate change", he said, adding the phenomenon "is real, it's happening. We understand it and we recognise it." Just how Australia will get to net zero by 2050 carbon emissions remains unclear, with the government refusing to release its modelling.

The plan would invest US$15 billion in low-emission technologies over the next decade, but it also leans heavily on unproven technologies and carbon offsets, which critics deride as an accounting gimmick.

And Morrison was keen to stress he was not dropping long-running support for the country's lucrative fossil fuel industry.

"It will not shut down our coal or gas production or exports," Morrison told a press conference. "It will not cost jobs, not in farming, mining or gas." While backing away from demands for more ambitious 2030 targets, Morrison said he expects Australia to "meet and beat" the previously agreed goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions 26-28 percent on 2005 levels.

He said Australia was now projected to cut emissions 30-35 percent by 2030.

"That is something we actually think we are going to achieve. The actions of Australia speak louder than the words about us," he added.

The announcement comes just days before Morrison departs for next month's United Nations COP26 climate summit in Glasgow.

Australia's reluctance to act had been criticised by close allies such as the United States and Britain, as well as Pacific island neighbours that are highly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.

The coalition government has also found itself increasingly out of step with Australians' attitudes as they suffered a series of climate-worsened droughts, bushfires and floods.

A 2021 poll by the Lowy Institute think tank found 78 percent of Australians back a 2050 net zero target, while 63 percent support a national ban on new coal mines.

The country's greatest natural tourist drawcard, the Great Barrier Reef, has been badly damaged by waves of mass coral bleaching as ocean temperatures rise.

Mark Kenny, a professor at the Australian Studies Institute in Canberra, said domestic and international pressures had made it "more and more unviable for the coalition to cling to its essentially denialist position".

But Kenny warned Australia's announcement amounted to little more than a shift in rhetoric for the resource-reliant nation.

"This commitment is not significant in reality. I think if the world takes this seriously, they have been sold a pup," he told AFP.

Tuesday's 2050 commitment trails behind more ambitious announcements from Australian states and corporations, including mining giant Rio Tinto.

Australia's major coal customers such as India and China have already indicated they will phase out thermal coal, and technological advances have made the future of metallurgical coal -- used to make steel -- increasingly uncertain.

Ahead of the 12-day Glasgow summit, the UN says more than 130 countries have set or are considering a target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050, a target it says is "imperative" to safeguard a livable climate.
Kano, Nigeria, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Gunmen have killed 16 worshippers at a mosque in central Nigeria, a government official said Tuesday, in the latest violence in the restive region.

Scores of gunmen on motorcycles stormed Maza-Kuka village in Mashegu district of Niger state on Monday and opened fire during morning prayers, said Ahmed Ibrahim Matane, the secretary to the government.

"The bandits shot dead 16 people inside the mosque while they were praying," Matane told AFP.

Three worshippers were injured in the attack, one of them critically, he added.

Matane said one other person was killed in nearby Kaboji village as the gunmen fled the area.
IZMIR, Turkey, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Leading Chinese coal producers are expected to cap coal prices ahead of the winter heating season in line with the government's intention to intervene to curb record-high coal costs.

As China generates a substantial share of its electricity production from coal, and as coal prices are reaching record highs, the country faces a soaring energy crisis.

Several factors contributed to the crisis, namely rising international demand as economies reopen, record high coal prices, governmental electricity price regulations, and strict emissions objectives.

With the government's decree to its state-owned energy companies to secure fuel supply for the winter "at all costs, China is preparing to ramp up coal production.

Following the announcement, four major coal producers announced their readiness to cap coal prices to mitigate the effects of the energy crisis, according to the Chinese daily Global Times.

The daily said that state-owned energy company, CHN Energy, decided to cap the price of 5,500-kilocalorie thermal coal at 1,800 Yuan ($281.33) per ton to bring coal prices back to "rational levels," while three others, including China National Coal Group Corporation, Jinneng Holding Group and private-owned Inner Mongolia Yitai Group Co set this target at over 2,000 yuan per ton.

Meanwhile, China's state planner, the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC), said last week that it was studying ways to lower coal prices and would take all necessary steps to bring costs within a "reasonable range.

" Wood Mackenzie principal analyst Rory Simington told Anadolu Agency that the timing of the talks between the NDRC with key Chinese coal miners and utilities to discuss thermal coal prices on Oct. 19 came after a substantial increase in prices.

"The talks came as the QHD spot price (China's seaborne thermal coal price marker, the Qinhuangdao 5,500) increased by an astounding RMB1,000 per tonne during the first 20 days of October, to around RMB2, 500 per tonne," Simington said.

He stressed that although China has approved over 200 million tons per annum (Mtpa) of new capacity since late September, demand is still outpacing supply.

"The latest announcement aligns with unconfirmed news we have recently heard, specifically that the NDRC met with large traders in the northern ports on Oct. 16 and recommended they cap the price for QHD 5,500 at RMB1,800 per tonne this winter. On Oct. 19, the State Energy Group promised to sell its coal at below this price," he explained.

Simington also noted that many mines in Shanxi, Shaanxi and Inner Mongolia provinces cut their mine gate prices by RMB100 per ton on Oct. 20, following a request by the NDRC.

"Futures prices have subsequently declined to around 1400 RMB per tonne for the January contract (from 1850 RMB per tonne on Oct. 19). However we think this is sentiment-based rather than a change in the fundamental drivers of the market," he noted.
UNITED NATIONS, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Pakistan underscored the need for promoting conflict resolution and dispute settlement during a discussion Monday at the United Nations on Secretary-General's landmark report that sets out his vision for the future of global cooperation.

"The Secretary-General has the power and must fully utilize his considerable authority under the charter to promote such conflict resolution and dispute settlement," Ambassador Munir Akram told the General Assembly, which debated the UN chief's report, titled 'Our Common Agenda', released last month.

The report is designed to strengthen and accelerate multilateral agreements  particularly the 2030 development agenda  and make a tangible difference in people's lives.

The best approach to prevent conflicts and protect populations, the Pakistan envoy said, is to promote universal adherence and respect for the principles of the UN Charter and international law.

"Our common agenda must also address the pervasive, inequality, which is the hallmark of our times, and which is the root cause of both under development, and conflict," Ambassador Akram said.

Among these underlying causes are: the unilateral use of military and economic power and coercion to dictate unequal and unjust political or economic outcomes; the continuing resort to the use or threat of use of force, military intervention, occupation; and an international trade and financial system which is structured in ways that perpetuates inequality against the smaller and weaker states and nations.

"Our Common Agenda", he said, should identify and develop consensus on proposals to redress these underlying causes of inequality.

The United Nations' "prevention mandate" remains controversial due to the blatant double standards applied in addressing specific situations, Ambassador Akram said.

The Pakistani envoy also said that the UN cannot create a new national "social contract" for sovereign states, which, he said must be determined by each state within the context of its own political, social, cultural and historical context.

At the international level, the consensus of the world community on the 2030 agenda and its corresponding SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) represents the "social contract".
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Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi will present Pakistan's viewpoint at the meeting on the current Afghan situation.

ISLAMABAD: (UrduPoint/UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News-Oct 26th, 2021) Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has left for Tehran to attend a ministerial meeting of Afghanistan's close neighbours to be held on Wednesday.

The Foreign Minister will present Pakistan's viewpoint at the meeting on the current Afghan situation.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi will also hold talks with the Iranian leadership in Tehran.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi emphasized the need for effective steps by international community for durable peace and stability in Afghanistan as well as in the region.

The Foreign Minister stated this at a meeting with his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan al Saud in Riyadh. They discussed regional and international issues as well as matters of mutual interest. They agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia at the United Nations and Organization of Islamic Cooperation.

Shah Mahmood Qureshi said the middle East Green Initiative Summit will help build a regional narrative to tackle the implications of climate change.
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First ever International Conference on Pakistan Hydropower Sector aimed at discussing more opportunities to produce cheap and clean energy from hydro sector will be held here on Wednesday (October 27).

ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :First ever International Conference on Pakistan Hydropower Sector aimed at discussing more opportunities to produce cheap and clean energy from hydro sector will be held here on Wednesday (October 27).

The conference is being organized by the Energy Update magazine in collaboration with Private Power board Infrastructure (PPIB) to be participated by energy experts from within and outside the country. Chairman organizing committee Naeem Qureshi said currently Pakistan was producing 9000MW from hydro power sector.

He said the conference was being organized to discuss progress Pakistan and adjoining region had achieved in the hydro power sector.

He said that conference was expected to thoroughly discuss to take advantages from Government ease-doing business for finding investment and business opportunities within or allied industries.

He said Minister Energy Hammad Azhar would be the chief guest on the occasion and MD PPIB Shah Jahan Mirza, Chairman NEPRA Tauseef H. Farooqui, President Intl Hydro Association Roger Gill would also address on the occasion.

Other speakers included Haedong Choi CEO Star Hydro Power, Munawar Iqbal, DG Hydro PPIB, Senior Advisor CSAIL NA Zuberi, Zafar Iqbal Watto Director Rehman Habib Consultants, Himayatullah Khan Former Advisor Energy, Engr. Naeem Khan CEO PEDO, Engr. Muhammad Ayub DMD NTDC, Danyaal Malik.
ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :Kashmiris on both sides of the Line of Control and the world over will observe Black Day on October 27th to convey to the world that India has occupied Jammu and Kashmir against their will and is denying them their inalienable right to self-determination.

According to Kashmir Media Service, on October 27th in 1947 Indian troops had invaded Jammu and Kashmir and occupied it in total violation of the Partition Plan of the subcontinent and against the Kashmiris' aspirations.

The day will be marked by a complete shutdown in occupied Kashmir, a march towards Lal Chowk in Srinagar and protest rallies in world capitals. Call for the shutdown and march has been given by the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Hurriyat forum led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and other Hurriyat organizations.

The observance of the Black Day, this year, is also aimed at drawing attention of the international community towards the sufferings of the people of occupied Kashmir due to the continued military and police siege imposed by Modi fascist puppet regime in the territory since 5 August 2019.

Hurriyat leaders and organizations have said that October 27th 1947 is the darkest day in the history of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Resistance camp have asked Kashmiris to observe 27 October as Black Day worldwide and said that the Indian repression cannot break the will of the Kashmiris who will continue their struggle for right to self-determination despite Indian repression.

The APHC amalgam parties in their separate statements said that Indian forces on daily basis are killing Kashmiris and destroying residential houses and the international community has become a mute spectator.

Jammu Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party, Jammu and Kashmir Peoples League, Muslim Conference Jammu and Kashmir, Tehreek-e-Istiqlal Jammu and Kashmir, Mahaze Azadi Jammu Kashmir and Islami Tanzeem-e-Azadi said that the day has brought miseries to the Kashmiris because India is since then trying to implement its unethical agenda in the entire region.
To express solidarity with Kashmiri brethren, Office Research Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), University of Karachi in collaboration with Press Information Department (PID) and ORIC Azad Jammu & Kashmir University will organize a peace walk on Wednesday

KARACHI, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :To express solidarity with Kashmiri brethren, Office Research Innovation and Commercialization (ORIC), University of Karachi in collaboration with Press Information Department (PID) and ORIC Azad Jammu & Kashmir University will organize a peace walk on Wednesday.

The peace walk will commence from Admin block, University of Karachi's main campus and will end at Azad Chowk.

A large number of faculty members and students would participate in the walk.

The Pakistani nation would observe the Kashmir Black Day on October 27 to deliver a message to the Indian government that Pakistan would continue support to Kashmiri brethren at all forums.
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ISLAMABAD, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :President Dr Arif Alvi on Tuesday said a cultural narrative of Pakistan defined by the ethos of tolerance and peace was need of the hour to gel the nation and transform its cultural diversity into unity.

Addressing at a conference themed 'National Integration and Cultural Assimilation' here at the Pakistan National Council of the Arts, the President said Pakistan's culture was a beautiful blend of customs and traditions from all provinces contoured by various ethnicities.

The two-day conference organized by the National Heritage & Culture Division under the Ministry of education and Professional Training was joined by scholars from across the country to deliberate on the subject of national cultural integration.

The President said Pakistan's culture was rooted in the notion of co-existence and harmony and emphasized giving a guideline to the nation to exhibit a culture of social acceptance.

He said an interplay of religion and desires could sometimes deviate oneself from the path of tolerance, adding that misery and conflict emerged whenever a certain belief was imposed on others.

He said the culture of islam could anchor the social fabric of the country that emphasized harmony.

However, he urged the nation to be mindful of those promoting terrorism and extremism in the garb of the same religion, thus fanning social conflicts.

He also called for promoting the message of Sufi saints that focused on tolerance to connect the hearts.

President Alvi said Two-Nation Theory was the ideological basis of Pakistan that focused on the separate religious, cultural, and traditional identity of a nation.

In today's India, he said, the Hindu extremist RSS was taking steps to erase the cultural identity of Muslims and warned that the situation could land the country into a cultural catastrophe.

To bring positivity to society, the president urged adopting a responsible approach by shunning the trend of fake news aimed at creating rifts among the nation.

Federal Minister for Education Shafqat Mehmood said Pakistan's cultural kaleidoscope comprised of different customs, languages, and traditions with their unique beauty and colours.

He stressed the need for a shared narrative on culture, history, and stories deriving from all units of the country to promote national unity and harmony.

He pointed out that the heritage of the colonial era led to distortion in the culture of the land, however, said while promoting unity, it was important to also welcome diversity.

Vice Chancellor Quaid-i-Azam University Professor Dr Muhammad Ali said the aim of the academic conference was to find ways to develop a national narrative on culture to ensure harmony among the people of all provinces.

He emphasized highlighting the Sufi character of the land and promoting the message of Baba Bulleh Shah, Khawaja Farid, Mian Muhammad Bakhsh, Rehman Baba, Pir Mehr Ali Shah and several other saints to develop a society based on selflessness, patience and harmony.

A group of students from Quaid-i-Azam University presented a mlange of songs depicting the colours of all provinces, Gilgit Baltistan and Kashmir.

Clad in traditional dresses, a group of performing artists from PNCA presented cultural dances to the tunes of folk songs.
The Allard Pierson archaeological museum (APM) in Amsterdam has to hand over the Scythian gold collection to Ukraine until the situation in Crimea stabilizes, the Amsterdam Court of Appeal ruled on Tuesday

MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 26th October, 2021) The Allard Pierson archaeological museum (APM) in Amsterdam has to hand over the Scythian gold collection to Ukraine until the situation in Crimea stabilizes, the Amsterdam Court of Appeal ruled on Tuesday.

"The APM has to hand over the Crimean treasures to the Ukrainian State for safekeeping until the situation in Crimea has stabilized," the court ruling read.
More than 1,000 Belgian police officers carried out dozens of raids and arrests on Tuesday in a sweeping operation targeting cocaine smugglers, federal prosecutors said

Brussels, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :More than 1,000 Belgian police officers carried out dozens of raids and arrests on Tuesday in a sweeping operation targeting cocaine smugglers, Federal prosecutors said.

"From 5:00 am, more than a hundred searches took place mainly in the Brussels region," spokesman Eric Van Duyse said.

The operation -- the biggest in Belgium since March -- came after authorities cracked an encrypted communications network used by criminal gangs.

The national Belga news agency reported that Tuesday's raids targeted an Albanian crime network.

Belgium and neighbouring Netherlands have overtaken Spain to become the main smuggling hubs for cocaine flowing into Europe, law enforcement agency Europol said last month.

Seizures at Belgium's port of Antwerp reached a record 65.6 tonnes in 2020, with Colombia, Brasil and Ecuador being the leading countries of origin.

The operation in March that led to 48 arrests in Brussels was part of a cross-border operation after police shut down the Sky ECC encrypted phone network.

The authorities had been able to monitor messages being exchanged by criminals after cracking the special phone network.
US President Joe Biden will meet with French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in Rome on Friday, the White House said Tuesday

Washington, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :US President Joe Biden will meet with French counterpart Emmanuel Macron in Rome on Friday, the White House said Tuesday.

The bilateral meeting will be ahead of the G20 summit in the Italian capital, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan told reporters. Biden will meet Pope Francis at the Vatican the same day.

The Biden-Macron meeting is billed as a chance to settle a dispute that erupted after Australia scrapped a deal to buy French conventional submarines in favor of a new plan to acquire US nuclear-powered submarines.

The episode saw France not only stripped of a lucrative contract but prompted Paris to question its transatlantic ties.

Macron briefly recalled France's ambassador to Washington, while Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian compared Biden's unilateral methods to ex-president Donald Trump's but "without the tweets."Biden leaves for Rome on Thursday, and will follow the G20 meeting on the weekend with the UN climate summit in Glasgow on Monday and Tuesday.
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The military coalition backing the government in Yemen said on Tuesday it had killed 85 Huthi rebels in air strikes near the strategic city of Marib

Riyadh, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :The military coalition backing the government in Yemen said on Tuesday it had killed 85 Huthi rebels in air strikes near the strategic city of Marib.

"Nine military vehicles were destroyed and 85" insurgents were killed in strikes in the past 24 hours in Al-Jawba, to the south of Marib, and Al-Kassara, 30 kilometres northwest of the city, the coalition said, according to the official Saudi Press Agency.
CHISINAU (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 26th October, 2021) Moldova is not considering the possibility of withdrawing from the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), a loose association of former Soviet republics, the country benefits from cooperation within the organization, Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita said.

"We are not considering the possibility of quitting the CIS, we have beneficial areas for cooperation within the Commonwealth. In addition, this is the possibility of economic cooperation with CIS members countries," Gavrilita said on Pro tv channel.

She said interaction with other countries within the CIS is beneficial for Moldovan economic agents, as well as for labor migrants working in these states.
The Islamic State-Khorasan terrorist group (ISIS-K, banned in Russia) in Afghanistan could have the capability to carry out an external attack in 6-12 months, while Al-Qaeda (terrorist group, banned in Russia) can take a year or two to do so, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Dr. Colin H. Kahl said on Tuesday

WASHINGTON (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 26th October, 2021) The Islamic State-Khorasan terrorist group (ISIS-K, banned in Russia) in Afghanistan could have the capability to carry out an external attack in 6-12 months, while Al-Qaeda (terrorist group, banned in Russia) can take a year or two to do so, Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Dr. Colin H. Kahl said on Tuesday.

"The intelligence community asses that ISIS-K and Al Qaeda have the intent to conduct external operations, including against the United States, but neither currently have the capability to do so, ISIS-K can generate that capability in somewhere 6-12 months. For Al Qaeda it can take a year or two to take this possibility," Kahl told a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on Afghanistan, and South and Central Asia.
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MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 26th October, 2021) Sailors of the Russian Northern Fleet rescued a Panama-flagged container ship from pirates in the Gulf of Guinea, the Russian Defense Ministry said in a statement.

"On October 25, the crew of the large anti-submarine ship Vice-Admiral Kulakov prevented pirates from seizing a civilian ship in the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean," the ministry said.

The crew received a distress signal from the Lucia container ship flying the flag of Panama from Togo to Cameroon.

"The report said that an attempt was made to hijack the vessel by unknown armed people on a high-speed boat.

The crew of the container ship, after giving a distress signal, in accordance with the instructions, took refuge in the engine room," the ministry said.

A Ka-27PS helicopter carrying a marine corps unit took off from the Russian ship and immediately headed for the area of the incident. According to the Ministry of Defense, the pirates left the ship when the helicopter appeared and headed towards the coast in their boat at full speed.
At least three Burkina Faso soldiers were killed and seven others wounded in an attack near the southern border with the Ivory Coast, security sources said on Tuesday

Ouagadougou, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 26th Oct, 2021 ) :At least three Burkina Faso soldiers were killed and seven others wounded in an attack near the southern border with the Ivory Coast, security sources said on Tuesday.

Burkina Faso has been hit by deadly terrorists' attacks since 2015, mostly in the northern and eastern regions close to Mali and Niger but also in the south.

"Unidentified armed individuals attacked a military unit securing the Mangodara commune area," a security source told AFP, adding the attack took place at 9 pm (2100 GMT) on Monday.

"The toll is three fallen soldiers and seven wounded, some of them seriously," the security source said.
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TORONTO (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 25th October, 2021) Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to visit the Netherlands, Italy and the United Kingdom as part of a European tour, during which he will meet with world leaders and participate in the G20 summit and the UN climate change conference, his office said on Monday.

"The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced he will travel to Europe for a bilateral visit to the Netherlands before participating in the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders' Summit in Italy and the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in the United Kingdom," his office said.

Trudeau will travel to the Netherlands on October 29, where he will participate in a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Mark Rutte and other Dutch representatives to discuss shared priorities and strengthening ties between the two countries, according to the office.

The Canadian leader will then spend October 30 to October 31 attending the G20 Leaders' Summit in Rome. Trudeau's office said that he will highlight Canada's contributions to global COVID-19 pandemic response efforts and the country's work to cut pollution and accelerate the transition to clean energy.

The trip will conclude in Glasgow from November 1 to November 2, where Trudeau will work with other world leaders to hasten climate change action and meet targets outlined in the Paris Agreement, Trudeau's office said. The meetings are critical opportunities for Canada to work together with global partners on real solutions to the world's greatest challenges and build a better future for everyone, they added.
MOSCOW (UrduPoint News / Sputnik - 25th October, 2021) US Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman who was paying a visit to the Sudanese capital of Khartoum left the country amid an unrest there, Sky news Arabia reported on Monday, citing US sources.

Earlier in the day, Sudanese Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok was taken to an undisclosed location by the military after he refused to support the coup. Several ministers, Khartoum governor and other officials were detained.
Author, Journalist Wallace-Wells to Discuss Climate Change at Nov. 2 University Forum

Tue, 10/26/2021 - 11:10am | By: David Tisdale

Science journalist and New York Times bestselling-author David Wallace-Wells, whose writing focuses on climate change, will be the third and final speaker for the fall 2021 University Forum series at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m. in Bennett Auditorium on the Hattiesburg campus. His presentation, Surviving the World: Making the Best of a Burdened Planet, is free and open to the public.

Wallace-Wells presentation will be based on his book The Uninhabitable Earth: Life After Warming. It was named one of the best books of 2019 by The New York Times, GQ, the New Yorker, and Time magazine. An HBO Max series featuring a multitude of fictional stories about the worlds future inspired by The Uninhabitable Earth is in production.

A deputy editor at New York magazine, Wallace-Wells is also a regular contributor to New York and the Guardian, co-host of the podcast 2038, and a National Fellow at the New America Foundation.

David Wallace-Wells presentation will be vital for raising awareness of global warming and the deadly costs associated with human-caused climate change, including droughts, fires, extreme heat and weather events, said USM climate scientist Dr. Diana Bernstein, an assistant research professor in the universitys Division of Marine Science, who will introduce Wallace-Wells at University Forum. His book is a watershed in the history of climate reporting. It has successfully explained to large swaths of readers just how catastrophic inaction on climate change will be, and in fact has become in many places, including Mississippi. It is also prescient in forecasting the struggles we face today, even with a receptive White House, in implementing measures necessary to comply with the Paris Agreement goals for carbon emissions and prevent the worst effects of climate change.

I cant think of a more needed speaker right now at USM and in Mississippi, and I hope people will listen to him, as our collective future depends on taking his words seriously and demanding climate action from our leaders.

University Forum is presented by the USM Honors College. For more information, visit usm.edu/forum #UniversityForum.
In this episode of the Checkerboard Chat, Josh Lane, Ethan Stone, Riley Thomas and Andrew Peters talk Georgia, South Alabama and a potential bowl game, men's and women's basketball, Tennessee soccer and more!
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.
FILE - This Feb. 5, 2018, file photo provided by the Oklahoma Department of Corrections shows Julius Jones. District Attorney David Prater on Monday, Oct. 4, 2021, filed a motion to remove Kelly Doyle and Andrew Luck from the clemency hearing for Jones, alleging they are biased.
Following her release in Mali, on October 9, the Colombian missionary tells Vatican News about her captivity and how she felt supported by faith and prayer.

By Manuel Cubias and Lisa Zengarini

A Colombian religious missionary, who was released recently in Mali, nearly five years after she was kidnapped by Islamic militants, has said faith and prayer helped her survive her ordeal.

Sister Gloria Cecilia Narvaez Argoti of the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of Mary Immaculate was abducted on February 7, 2017, and was freed on October 9 this year, following months of negotiations involving the Holy See and the Colombian bishops. The following day, she was in Rome and attended the papal General Audience.

Speaking to Vatican News, she recounted her experience and thanked God as well as the Church, Pope Francis, and the Italian authorities for their help in securing her release. During her captivity, the Colombian Church and her religious Congregation prayed constantly for her, calling international attention to her case.

A good relationship with the kidnappers

Sister Narvaez told Vatican News' Fr. Manuel Cubias she had a good humane relationship with her kidnappers based on reciprocal respect, though she felt she was treated like a stranger because of her religious status and Catholic faith: They always repeated that Islam was the true religion. I let them speak with respect, but I could perceive they rejected me for being a Catholic and a nun.



Always trusted in God

She said she never feared for her life, as she trusted in God: I said to myself: What will be, will be'. Praying and reciting the Psalms, she added, helped a lot and gave her a sense of security. She said her first thought after her release was to thank God with all her heart.

The pastoral work of the Franciscan sisters in Mali

Talking about the work her Franciscan Congregation did at the time of her kidnapping, Sister Narvaez explained that it managed a health care centre for the people of the various villages in Mali's district of Karangasso, ran an orphanage housing dozens of children whose mothers died in childbirth, and offered literacy, embroidery and sewing classes. The Franciscan sisters also dealt with micro-credit for small businesses, especially those run by women, so that they could contribute to keeping their families. Our Congregation hasnt been present there for some months now, but, with the exception of micro-credit, we have been allowed to continue these activities through local women under the supervision of the local diocese, she said.

Growing insecurity in Mali

Over the last years Church missionary activity in Mali, as in other countries in the Sahel region, has been hindered by growing insecurity due to a jihadist insurgency. Militants linked to al Qaeda and the Islamic State have expanded their reach in the semi-arid region on the edge of the Sahara, fueling ethnic conflicts and forcing entire communities to flee their homes. Just over a year ago, Italian Catholic Missionary Fr. Pierluigi Maccalli, a member of the Society of African Missions, was released in Mali, two years after he was abducted by a jihadist group in Niger.
A new office of the Apostolic Nunciature to Armenia opens on Wednesday in the capital, Yerevan. It will not, however, replace the official Apostolic Nunciature in Tbilisi, Georgia, which serves as the Holy Sees diplomatic mission to Georgia and Armenia

By Salvatore Cernuzio

As the Holy See and Armenia mark 30 years of diplomatic relations, a new office of the Apostolic Nunciature to Georgia and Armenia is to be inaugurated on October 27, in the Armenian capital Yerevan. The inauguration will take place in the presence of Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra, Substitute of the Secretariat of State.

The opening of the Yerevan office represents a provisional setup in view of a wider arrangement in order to have sufficient space to adequately support the multiple commitments of the mission of the Holy See and of the Catholic Church in Armenia. For the Holy See, it is a further opportunity to look "at building a prosperous relationship for the benefit of all Armenians".

Ancient relationships

The Apostolic Nunciature in Armenia was established on May 24, 1992, with the apostolic letter Armeniam Nationem of St. John Paul II. The relations between the Church of Rome and Armenia go back to ancient times, almost to the very origins of Christianity, when faith in Jesus spread from Jerusalem to the "known world", where meetings and commercial and cultural exchanges between peoples became an occasion for debates that touched the "meaning" of life and existence.

Over the centuries, this ancient and prolific relationship between Armenia and the Holy See has grown in strength. Official diplomatic relations in modern times can be traced back to May 23, 1992, after Armenia gained independence following the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Since then, the Holy See has continually maintained diplomatic representations to foster relations, along with other initiatives and channels of various Catholic institutions. The first apostolic nuncio appointed to Armenia was Monsignor Jean-Paul Aime Gobel (1993-1997). The current Holy Sees representative since 2018 is Archbishop Jose A. Bettencourt.

Holy Sees apostolic thrust

Over the years, the relationship between the Holy See and Armenia has also taken shape with the work and presence of the Mechitarist Congregation, the Armenian Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, the clergy of the Ordinariate for Catholics of the Armenian rite in Eastern Europe, the Sisters of Charity of Mother Teresa in Spitak and Yerevan, the Camillian Fathers of the Redemptoris Mater hospital in Ashotzk, built after the 1988 earthquake, and Caritas Armenia. These are just some of the most well-known Catholic presences that draw on the resources and support of the worldwide Catholic Church and which, over the years, have provided valid support to the mission of the Nuncios in the country, who have always been able to count on the generosity and support offered by the Armenian-Catholic archbishops.

In 2019, during his visit to Armenia, Vatican Secretary for Relations with States, Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher said: "The intention of all the Catholic communities present in Armenia - the Armenian-Catholic, the Roman and other rites - is to strive for the welfare of Armenian society as a whole. Our communities continue to do so through their activities in the spiritual, cultural, educational, charitable and humanitarian fields.

Pope Francis visit

Pope Francis visited Armenia, June 24-26, 2016. In his meeting with the countrys civil authorities and members of the diplomatic corps, the Pontiff recalled the history of the country, marked by Metz Yeghern (the Great Evil or what is known as the Armenian genocide under the Ottoman Empire during World War I), which has always gone hand in hand with its Christian identity, preserved over the centuries". This Christian identity, the Pope said, far from hindering the healthy secularism of the state, nourishes it, favouring the shared citizenship of all members of society, religious freedom and respect for minorities. The cohesion of all Armenians, and the increased commitment to identify useful ways to overcome tensions with some neighbouring countries, he said, will make it easier to achieve these important objectives, ushering in an era of true rebirth for Armenia.
Normal, IL (61790)

Today

Snow showers this morning. Peeks of sunshine later. High 52F. Winds SSW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 40%..

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Cloudy this evening with showers after midnight. Low 37F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Ever since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Beijing has been trying to promote a narrative that the virus originated somewhere outside of mainland China. One recent conspiracy theory being spread by CCP propagandists is that the coronavirus was imported to China from the United States. The culprit is a batch of Maine lobsters that was sent to Wuhan in November 2019.

The misinformation ploy was first noted by Marcel Schliebs, disinformation researcher at the University of Oxford in mid-September. He has been tracking Twitter posts from Chinese media and diplomats for the previous 18 months. He found a network of 550 Twitter accounts that were promoting the narrative in multiple languages.

While some of these Twitter accounts used to be authentic and were later possibly repurposed for spreading misinformation, many other accounts were unsophisticated sock puppets that had little to no followers. Schliebs found it difficult attributing the campaign to any particular group. But he notes that the accounts consistently promoted a pro-China narrative.

We notified Twitter last week, and they were very responsive and suspended the accounts very rapidly within a few hours. Fortunately, we detected the campaign as it was still in its early growth phase and before it could really start to reach and impact real genuine audiences, Schliebs told USA TODAY.

Last January, Beijing promoted propaganda that the COVID-19 virus originated from a U.S. military lab in Fort Derrick. Hua Chunying, the director of the Foreign Ministry Information Department of China, promoted the narrative heavily on Twitter and even demanded that Washington open up Fort Derrick for investigation. In July, the foreign ministry asked the World Health Organization (WHO) to investigate the issue.

Bret Schafer, head of the information manipulation team at the Alliance for Securing Democracy, commented about the latest Maine lobster conspiracy. He said that this is the third or fourth major redirection that Chinese officials have undertaken to pin the blame of COVID-19 on the United States.

It looks crude and not sophisticated when you look at individual accounts. But these kinds of networks are designed to try and get topics to trend on social media Whether or not anyone is buying into lobster or Fort Detrick being the source of Covid, its at least having the effect of muddying the truth and confusing people, Schafer told NBC News.

In September, cybersecurity firm Mandiant in association with experts from Google had published a report revealing that a pro-Chinese online influence operation was targeting Americans to exploit divisions triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The operation had initially focused on discrediting the 2019 pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong; later it began to focus on other issues. According to the report, accounts in the influence operation have worked to mobilize protestors in the United States to respond against the COVID-19 pandemic.

This direct call for physical mobilization is a significant development compared to prior activity, potentially indicative of an emerging intent to motivate real-world activity outside of Chinas territories While this attempt did not appear to achieve any success, we believe it is critical that observers continue to monitor for such attempts in case greater degrees of organic engagement are later realized by the network, the report states.
China will soon start vaccinating children as young as three-years-old against COVID-19. The decision comes as the country is presently dealing with sporadic breakouts and has implemented strict restrictions in regions where new infections have been reported. Around 76 percent of Chinas population is fully vaccinated.

Local governments of five Chinese provinces have issued notices stating that children between the ages of three and 11 are mandated to take COVID-19 shots. One of the government announcements stated that all who should get vaccinated will get vaccinated.

Some parents have raised concerns about the issue. In an interview with the Associated Press (AP), Wang Lu, a mother of a three-year-old son, said that she was in no hurry to get the boy inoculated. Im just not very clear on the vaccines safety profile, so I dont really want to get him vaccinated, at the very least, I dont want to be the first, Wang said.

There have also been reports of authorities silencing parents whose children died as a result of the vaccination. According to a report by The Epoch Times, a 12-year-old girl who was vaccinated on Aug. 10 ended up dead on Aug. 28.

Two days after the inoculation, the young girl suffered a high fever and several health complications. The mother of the child approached officials as she believed the girl died due to the vaccine. But rather than provide help, she was beaten up. On Oct. 16, police arrested the mother on charges of provoking trouble and picking quarrels.

Back in June, China had approved the domestically-developed Sinovac and Sinopharm vaccines for children between three and 17 years of age. In August, another domestic vaccine was also approved for use on children.

However, these vaccines continue to be in clinical trials and there is no clarity on how much protection they offer against the Delta variant which is driving the latest wave of infections.

With China approving domestic vaccines for children, other countries using Chinese vaccines have also adopted a similar stance. In Argentina, Sinopharm is approved for three-year-olds and above.

In Chile, kids from the age of six are eligible to get a shot of Sinovac. Cambodia, which uses both Sinopharm and Sinovac, has approved the jabs for kids above the age of six.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is considering making kids from the age of five eligible for vaccination. An independent group of experts convened by the agency will soon discuss the matter. FDA has looked into an analysis submitted by Pfizer which showed that the companys COVID-19 shot was 90.7 percent effective on children.

There are worries of vaccines potentially triggering heart inflammation or myocarditis in kids. However, scientists at the FDA still support the vaccine.

My initial thought is that the benefits of vaccinating children five through 11 years outweigh the risks of myocarditis and other safety concerns that people may have, Henry Bernstein, a pediatrician at Cohen Childrens Medical Center in New York, told AFP

Some have strongly criticized the plan to impose vaccines on children. Writing for The Defender, Toby Rogers, Ph.D., points out that none of the kids who participated in the Pfizer study had severe COVID-19 nor died due to the infection.

As such, any claim of 90 percent effectiveness in children is meaningless since such cases are likely to be mild infections from which kids typically recover quickly.
As the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continues to prioritize the red regimes security, it has now added a crustacean to its list of national security threats.

The communist government has declared the smuggling of Australian rock lobster into the mainland a threat to its national security and integrity, Hong Kongs customs chief said on Oct. 21, in her quest to shut down the illegal trade.

Treat or threat?

According to the Southern Rocklobster Limited, the Australian rock lobster, native only to the waters of southern Australia and New Zealand, are important for fisheries across the region.

Live rock lobster exporters based in Australia have heavily relied on the Chinese market, which accounts for up to 95 percent of exports from the country. Bloomberg reported in June that Hong Kong has become the worlds largest importer of Australian rock lobsters.

Despite lobsters being a scrumptious delicacy, imports of the crustacean in China have been restricted amidst deteriorating relations between Beijing and Canberra due to the latters belief that wet-markets in the Chinese city of Wuhan was the epicentre of the coronavirus outbreak, in addition to claims that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has been supporting the reopening of the wet markets.

Since the tensions between the two countries escalated, imports of the lobsters have increased dramatically, and it has not stopped some people on the mainland from having them on their plates.

Government up in arms

The communist-ruled government of Hong Kong has vowed to act against the illegal trade of rock lobsters on the mainland.

In her inaugural press conference, newly-appointed customs commissioner Louise Ho announced on Oct. 21 that she would tackle anyone trading in lobsters across the border. In her inaugural press conference, she expressed her desire to safeguard Chinas national security.

On the surface, it is a simple matter of smuggling lobsters, but these activities undermine our countrys trade restrictions against Australia, she said, adding that, Stopping lobster smuggling is a very important part of protecting national security, so we will pursue it diligently.

Ho has also reported that triad gangs have been bringing in lobsters via speed boats to the mainland for years, a practice that surged to greater heights during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Recently, after arresting 13 suspects, around 5,300 kilogrammes of smuggled lobsters, worth US$540,000, have been confiscated by Hong Kong and mainland authorities.

In one incident, a marine officer was killed after her vessel was rammed by smugglers in a high-speed chase, causing the police to launch a crackdown, The Guardian reported.

Other than Australian rock lobsters, speedboat smugglers have also brought in everything ranging from luxury watches, handbags and shoes to endangered animal parts, cosmetics, wines, whiskey and cigars.

The move to ban and restrict the influx of rock lobsters into China has come in light of the numerous crackdowns performed by the CCP, mainly against dissent and protests in the city of Hong Kong, which prompted a national security law to suppress anyone and anything deemed a national security threat.
The Peoples Republic of China (PRC) has heavily invested in Africa over the past decade and continues to be one of the leading investors in the continent, eyeing the regions vast resources. One area where Beijing is pouring resources is the digital sector, with experts expressing concern that the communist superpowers digital push wont go well for Africans.

Chinese brands like Transsion and Huawei dominate Africas smartphone market and digital infrastructure. Most of these phones come with pre-installed apps from Chinese tech companies that expand the reach of these firms.

According to one study by U.S.-based think-tank Atlantic Council, Huawei is singularly responsible for developing 30 percent of Africas 3G network and 70 percent of the continents 4G network.

Australian Strategic Policy Institute states that the PRC has built 266 technology projects in Africa, ranging from data centers to telecommunication networks and education programs.

All these tech investments have come at a massive cost  the installation and entrenchment of PRC-style authoritarianism. In Uganda, Huawei supplied surveillance technology that has been used to arrest supporters of opposition groups. In Zambia, Chinese tech has been used to spy on critics of the government. In Ethiopia, a $3 billion Chinese loan was used to monitor telecom networks.

A recent report by the African Digital Rights Network (ADRN) highlighted the issue of African governments using new technologies to boost surveillance on opposition figures. Weak civil society, lack of proper protection of privacy, government impunity, and laws that protect government spying were cited as reasons why Africa is seeing a rise in surveillance. Censorship is also on the rise: last year saw 25 internet shutdowns versus 21 the year before.

Citizens need to be more aware of their privacy rights and of the surveillance activities undertaken by their governments My concern is that we are drifting into digital authoritarianism where it is considered normal for our privacy to be violated and somehow the fact that it is happening digitally lets governments off the hook, Tony Roberts, who edited the report, told Reuters.

Bulelani Jili, a cybersecurity fellow at the Belfer Center at Harvard University, spoke with Voice of America about concerns with Communist China in the region. Jili said that data sharing will be a key point of contention between Beijing and Africa. He is worried about how data will be managed and who will own it.

There is need [for] greater public awareness and attention to this issue in part because its a key metric surrounding both development but also the kind of Africa-China relations going forward. We should also be thinking about data sovereignty is going to be a key factor going forward, Jili said.

In an interview with CNN-News18, cybersecurity expert Christopher Ahlberg, CEO of Recorded Future, said that the PRC sees Africa as its backyard. Chinese telecom companies are sponsored by Beijing to aggressively expand into the African market. This also raises the risk of communist China embedding itself into the continents tech infrastructure. Chinese companies have the time and opportunity to plant certain things, he warned.

It might be a software upgrade, it might be totally fine and legit, but, again they know how to get things into it. Telecom companies are one of the favorites of hackers but that does not mean that we, as a free world, should accept Chinese infrastructure, Ahlberg said.
Cambodia imprisoned 10 activists on Tuesday for demonstrating in support of a prominent union leader who was jailed in August over accusations he falsely claimed that land in the Southeast Asian country had been ceded to neighboring Vietnam.

Cambodia has for centuries fretted about territorial encroachments by Vietnam to the east and Thailand to the west. The issue is highly emotive and many Cambodians are suspicious and resentful of both neighbors.

A court in the capital Phnom Penh sentenced the 10 activists, who had been demonstrating in support of border activist and trade unionist Rong Chhun, to 20 months in prison, a defense lawyer and a rights group said.

Last year, the government accused Rong Chhun of saying Cambodian farmers had lost land to Vietnam in a border post demarcation, and that Vietnamese authorities had evicted Cambodian villagers. Rong Chhun has denied making the remarks or stirring up trouble.

He was sentenced to two years in prison this August.

The activists were arrested in August and September last year and will be placed under probation for two years upon their release, rights group Licadho said in a statement.

Their sentencing comes amid a broad crackdown in Cambodia on the opposition, civil society and the media that began in the run-up to a 2018 election.

"The trial mostly consisted of the activists being asked if they had obtained prior permission to gather, and if they had someone from outside the country encouraging or paying them to engage in the peaceful calls for Rong Chhun's release," Licadho said.

The activists were also fined $500 each, according to Sam Chamroeun, one of the group's defense lawyers.

"I and my clients can't accept this verdict and I will discuss with them whether or not to appeal," he told Reuters.


CHAMPOU KHMAO VILLAGE, PREAH SIHANOUK PROVINCE  Time passes but the rice cycle stays the same for Nget Srey and other farmers in this remote village in coastal Preah Sihanouk province. Or at least it did until two years ago, when the saltwater started spilling over the dam blocking nearby sea tributaries, flooding their rice fields. Last year, Nget Sreys paddy was almost ready to harvest when her two-and-a-half-hectare field become inundated with seawater, decimating her crops, slashing her main source of income and, she now worries, destroying her way of life. My paddy was really good by then and saltwater spilled over and it died out. So did other neighbors rice paddies, said the 58-year-old farmer in Prey Nob districts Champou Khmao village. Now I am really concerned that I cant do farming anymore, she added. Last year there were three floods. It has never happened like that.



Nget Srey and her neighbors, like coastal farmers around the world, are feeling the effects of saltwater intrusion, a phenomenon in which seawater infiltrates freshwater sources such as groundwater, rivers and aquifer. And its being accelerated by a combination of unchecked development and climate change. While reports forecasting the effects of climate change in Cambodia have predicted that saltwater intrusion will threaten coastal agriculture, the governments point person on global warming said he wasnt sure how much of a problem it was for farmers along the 450-kilometer coastline stretching from Kep to Koh Kong. There is no data showing saltwater intrusion, said Hak Mao, director of the Department of Climate Change of the Environment Ministry, but there might be some areas affected and we need to study more. During a trip to coastal communities earlier this month, a half dozen farmers confirmed that it was affecting them. And as farmland turns more saline, some farmers are giving up rice cultivation altogether, leaving them without a reliable food source or a financial lifeline. Sitting in front of her house in Tuol Tortoeung commune, Nget Srey, the mother of six, said she could only cultivate 20% of her normal paddy rice yield last season, which was hardly enough to feed her own family for the year. If the rice is good, I can produce around 10 tons per year. But last year, I could harvest only two tons, she told VOA Khmer in a recent interview, adding that most years, she is also able to sell around 10 million riels, or $2,500, worth of rice. A farmer of 20 years, she also rented a piece of farmland last year, with a promise to pay the land owner a ton of rice come harvest time. The seawater wiped out those plans, and the owner sold the land to another person who is now using it to raise shrimp, which need the saltwater. Nget Srey still has her own two and a half hectares, and she is still growing rice on it. But she is feeling vulnerable. I am still worried about saltwater spilling again since the dam dike is still low, she said. If seawater spills from the dam for one or two days, it will flood the rice field. Just a stones throw away from Nget Sreys house is Sorn Touch, another rice farmer who said saltwater flooded his three hectares of paddy field late last year, costing him around $1,000. I have lived here for more than 30 years, and there was never such big water, the 60-year-old told VOA Khmer. Last year, there was a lot of water. Normally, he said, the water rises from October to December, but it was becoming less predictable  and more difficult for the dikes to hold it back. Saltwater easily gets into our land via the dams, he said, adding that the dams should be higher to prevent seawater from entering fields at the end of the year. The dams are low, he said, while the seawater rises higher.

The conditions make farming precarious, but Touch sees little choice. It is difficult to do farming here, but we have rice fields here, so we have to do farming every year, he said. Like Nget Srey, Touch and his wife, Sem Rem, 54, also rented land nearby to grow rice to eat and sell. But she completely lost her harvest last year, putting her out about $1,500. Last year, I couldnt harvest even a seed. The land is not good since it is still saline. It was complete destruction, said Sem Rem, a mother of five. This year, Im not farming on the rented land since I am afraid of losing it again. While saltwater intrusion can be caused by a number of human-caused factors  from climate change to deforestation and river dredging  rising sea levels are a major contributor. In Cambodia, the sea level could increase by more than half a meter by 2090 under the worst climate scenarios, which would inundate some 25,000 hectares, significantly increase vulnerability to storms and negatively affect coastal tourism, according to Cambodias Climate Change Strategic Plan, a government document published in 2013. In Kampot provinces Treuy Koh commune, 40-year-old farmer Deu Bern said saltwater destroyed patches of rice fields last year  including half a hectare of her own paddy. Now people here have stopped growing rice. There is only me doing it. Some have sold their land already, said the mother of two daughters, aged 17 and 14. When saltwater pours in the rice field, the soil becomes red, dies out and becomes saline, she said, adding that villagers cant grow rice unless they pump freshwater into the field to clean the soil. In the coming decades, coastal areas and the central plains, according to the 2013 report, are expected to become increasingly vulnerable to flooding, affecting agriculture, fisheries, tourism, shipping and other industries. Hak Mao of the Environment Ministry said sea levels could rise by as much as one or two meters by 2100, based on some scenarios, which would only compound the devastation. He said Cambodias government has done well to lessen the impacts of climate change, explaining that things could be much worse. But he recognized that Cambodia is highly vulnerable to climate change, due to factors including its reliance on agriculture, financial limitations and poor infrastructure. We observe that Preah Sihanoukville province is the most seriously impacted by climate change. But in the long run, if sea water level rises as forecast, Koh Kong province will be more vulnerable to floods, he said.


TRAPEANG SANGKAE, KAMPOT  Fisherman Mert Youb doesnt want his teenage son to make his living at sea. I want him to study and become a teacher or do other work, because I think fishing at sea could be really risky in the future. I dont want him to be like me, Youb told VOA Khmer in September, at his home in Tuek Chhou districts Kampong Kes village. Last month, there was a boat that sunk due to strong wind, but the fisherman was rescued on time, he added. Climate change is bringing more storms and strong winds to Youbs coastal community, making life even tougher for fishermen already facing declining ocean life due to illegal fishing practices and unchecked development ravaging the seascape. These days, Youbs daily catch of shrimp, crabs, octopus and small fish is about equal to what he used to catch in shrimp alone  though higher prices for his haul means he still brings in about 90,000 riel ($22.50) in a 12-hour day.

Global experts say one major effect of global warming, more frequent and intense weather, will hit hardest in developing countries that rely on fishing for livelihoods and sustenance. Thats already playing out in coastal zones in Cambodia, where sea levels are slowly rising and storms are adding a new element of danger to an already hardscrabble way of life. Les Kert, another fisherman, said his teenage son dropped out of school and is now laboring on fishing boat, earning 30,000 riels ($7.50) to 40,000 riel ($10) per day. He said he also wanted his 15-year-old son to stay in school, but he said he was tired of studying during COVID-19 and he wanted to help parents since he sees parents in difficult time. Kert agreed that his line of work is increasingly dangerous. If there is rain or wind, it can risk our lives, he said. My wife always cries when we meet strong wind. Both Youb and Kert said rapid development of the coastline and illegal fishing practices like electrified nets and industrial-scale trawling  often by Vietnamese boats crossing into Cambodian waters  were largely to blame for their troubles. Before I could fish here, but now it has been filled with land so fish cant live here, said 48-year-old Kert, adding that he and his wife now fish off a nearby island. But erratic weather and increasing temperatures are compounding their struggles. The weather has changed completely. In the past, we had the same strong wind, but it occurs predictably. But now it can happen at any time, said Youb. Sometimes, when we place nets in the sea for fishing, big waves come and make it difficult to fish. And they both worry about what it means for the next generation. I think my younger generation cant work at the state-run bodies with high positions, said Youb. So, they rely on fishingIf we lose places to fish, what can they hope for? In the future, they can only work as laborer for others since they cant fish at sea, said Kert.

All of Cambodia is highly vulnerable to climate change, due to so many people living on the margins and limited government resources to help them, according to United Nations reports and the Cambodian government. However, few areas are feeling the effects as strongly as the 450-kilometer coastline stretching from Kep to Kampot to Preah Sihanouk and Koh Kong provinces, where agriculture, fishing, tourism and shipping are all vulnerable. Cambodias sea level could rise by more than half a meter by 2090, inundating 25,000 hectares and forcing thousands to relocate, according to the governments 2013 Climate Change Strategic Plan. Temperature are expected to rise by between 0.13 and 0.36 degrees per decade. According to a study on public perceptions of climate change in Cambodia, published earlier this year, people in the coastal region are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. They were the least likely to feel confident about preparing for extreme weather and the most likely to say they needed government support to address the changes they were experiencing, says the study by National Council for Sustainable Development. And yet coastal people were also the most likely to say that they did not know how to take action, it added, citing lower income and education levels as a possible explanation.
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The World Health Organization's endorsement of the worlds first malaria vaccine marks a major advance against the mosquito-borne illness, which kills some 265,000 children in Africa annually. Timothy Obiezu reports from Nigeria, a country afflicted by malaria.]]
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Margaret Besheer, VOA United Nations Correspondent, will join us from NY to speak about the U.N. Security Council closed meeting on Sudans political upheaval.
Amnesty International announced Monday it would shut its two offices in Hong Kong, citing concerns about the citys sweeping national security law.

The human rights group has had a presence in Hong Kong for more than 40 years. The groups mission has been building awareness of human rights issues in the city.

The group said will shut its local office by the end of October and its regional office by the end of the year.

The closure comes amid Hong Kongs rapidly changing political climate under the national security measure.

Following anti-government protests in Hong Kong in 2019, China implemented the national security law for the city. The measure prohibits secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces.

The law has prompted a political crackdown on dissent, with dozens of activists charged under the law. Pro-democracy books have been removed from libraries and schools, with political slogans banned.

The law carries a sentence of life imprisonment, and since its enactment, dozens of pro-democracy activists have been charged, with at least one person jailed. Several of Hong Kongs local civic organizations and unions have also come under pressure, with many folding.

Anjhula Mya Singh Bais, chair of Amnestys international board, said in a news release that Hong Kongs national security law has made it impossible for human rights organizations to work freely and without fear of reprisal from the government.

It is increasingly difficult for us to keep operating in such an unstable environment, the statement read.

Amnesty presence in Asia-Pacific

Amnesty has its headquarters in London and boasts 10 million members and supporters worldwide, with operations in more than 70 countries.

The Hong Kong offices have a sister location in Bangkok, and the group continues to conduct research and advocacy work across other countries in the Asia-Pacific region.

When VOA requested further comment from the Hong Kong office, the response was attributed to Kyle Ward, Amnesty deputy secretary-general.

Amnestys offices around the world will continue monitoring and responding to the human rights situation in Hong Kong.

We are not cutting any roles or resources dedicated to Hong Kong. The Amnesty office in Hong Kong is one part of the Regional Office for East and Southeast Asia and the Pacific, and so the work carried out in Hong Kong will continue as before, from different locations including Bangkok and others in the region.

Effects of security law

Hong Kongs space for civic groups has quickly declined in recent months.

Although many of Hong Kongs civil societies and unions have been around for decades, at least 50 civil society groups have disbanded since the security measure came into force last year, Agence France-Press reported.

After 48 years, Hong Kongs Professional Teachers Union disbanded after facing heavy criticism from Chinese state media and the Hong Kong government, which claimed the union had mixed education with politics.

The Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China  known for organizing Hong Kongs annual vigil in memory of the Tiananmen Square crackdown in Beijing in 1989  voted to disband in September. Its leaders currently face secession charges under the security policies.

And earlier this month, the Hong Kong Confederations of Trade Unions disbanded over uncertainty amid the political climate.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Carrie Lam has previously denied there is a crackdown on civil society.

International reaction

Sari Arho Havren, a China analyst based in Brussels, told VOA that Amnestys vacating its Hong Kong offices is concerning.

Closing Amnesty Internationals regional office in Hong Kong is a disturbing sign how civil society in Hong Kong is disappearing and only pro-Beijing yes-voices remain allowed. When an organization such as Amnesty cannot operate anymore, the alarm bells should ring loud in all democracies, she said.

When an international, reputable organization such as Amnesty doesnt feel safe to operate in Hong Kong anymore without fear of reprisals, how could a smaller, less-known NGOs feel safe? Havren added.

Eric Yan-ho Lai, a law and political analyst and fellow at Georgetown University Law School, told VOA that Amnestys closure of its office is alarming because of its international status.

There are more than 50 NGOs, student unions and trade unions disbanded or closes their offices in Hong Kong, but AI (Amnesty International) is more alarming as it's the first international NGO declaring its closure of business in Hong Kong."

"Amnesty International's decision is a vote of no confidence to Hong Kong's rule of law and independent judiciary, in my view, he added.

The analyst praised the impact Amnesty has made in Hong Kong.

"Amnesty International has done a great job in promoting human rights protections in Hong Kong, including the rights of refugees, asylum seekers and LGBTQs. Their departure implies that even promoting minority rights and non-discrimination in Hong Kong is not safe anymore, he added.
After a 10-month investigation, law enforcement officials in the United States and Europe have arrested at least 150 people suspected of drug trafficking over the darknet, the U.S. Justice Department announced Tuesday.

Officials also seized over $31 million in cash and cryptocurrency and 45 guns.

The darknet is a part of the internet that is accessible only by using specialized anonymity tools such as the Tor browser.

The Justice Department said those arrested were involved in tens of thousands of illegal online drug sales in the U.S., the United Kingdom, Australia, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

Sixty-five Americans were among those arrested, along with 47 Germans and 25 British citizens, Dutch media reported.

The point of operations such as the one today is to put criminals operating on the dark web on notice: The law enforcement community has the means and global partnerships to unmask them and hold them accountable for their illegal activities, even in areas of the dark web, Jean-Philippe Lecouffe, Europols deputy executive director of operations, said in a statement.



Some information in this report comes from The Associated Press and Reuters.
U.S. President Joe Biden on Tuesday rebooted his countrys lapsed relationship with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations by attending the annual meeting of the 10-member bloc virtually and announcing plans to provide up to $102 million to expand the U.S. strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific region.

Our partnership is essential in maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, which has been the foundation of our shared security and prosperity for many decades, Biden said in his opening remarks delivered from the White House as leaders of nine of the 10 nations listened. And the United States strongly supports the ASEAN outlook and the Indo-Pacific  on the Indo-Pacific and the rules-based regional order.

The last U.S. president to attend an ASEAN-U.S. meeting was in 2017 when Donald Trump attended in Manila.

This years summit is hosted by Brunei. The other members of the regional bloc are Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Myanmar was not allowed to attend  the group banned its military junta leader for ignoring a peace road map agreed to six months ago.

Biden underscored the importance of ASEAN and called the relationship a linchpin for maintaining the resilience, the prosperity, and security of our shared region.

The White House said the new funding will go toward health, climate, economic and education programs.

Included in the package is $40 million that will go to an initiative to help address the current COVID-19 pandemic and strengthen ASEAN's ability to prevent, detect and respond to future outbreaks of infectious diseases.

Another $20.5 million will finance climate mitigation, and up to $20 million will support cooperation on trade and innovation. Another $17.5 million is earmarked for education projects, and $4 million to promote gender equality and equity.

US-China rivalry

The summit is the first time in four years that an American president participated at the top level with an economically dynamic regional bloc seen as key to countering an increasingly assertive China.

Marc Mealy, senior vice president for policy at the U.S.-ASEAN Business Council, said he welcomes Bidens re-engagement. We're talking about a region that by 2030 is going to be one of the largest regional economies in the world, he said.

While the United States is seen as a security guarantor against rising Chinese ambition in the region, Washington is lagging behind Beijing in terms of economic ties. According to ASEAN data, the bloc became Chinas largest trading partner in 2020.

ASEAN and China are also part of the worlds biggest free trade agreement, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. The U.S. is not part of the deal, which covers nearly 30% of the global economy.

The U.S. is also left out of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, a free trade agreement formerly known as the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The 2016 TPP was promoted by former president Barack Obama but Trump withdrew from it in 2017.

On several issues, whether it's trade or climate, the United States plays an important role in setting the table, and then sometimes leaves the table, said Prashanth Parameswaran, a fellow at the Wilson Center's Asia program.

He pointed out that geographically, Washington is at a disadvantage and will need to work harder to win ASEAN support at the same time that regional players, including China, Japan, South Korea and Australia, are eager to step in.

When you raise the bar, and then you subsequently walk away, there's a double disadvantage, Parameswaran said.

In recent years, the U.S.-China rivalry in Southeast Asia has intensified significantly. The Biden administration is continuing the Free and Open Indo-Pacific strategy in the region, which singles out Beijing for pursuing regional hegemony.

But most members of ASEAN refuse a binary choice between the U.S. and China and underscore the need to cooperate with both, while ensuring freedom of navigation, including in the Taiwan Straits.

What's the benefit for conflict happening in that area? Who gets the benefit? Indonesian Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment Luhut Pandjaitan said to VOA. Nobody. COVID is enough (to) create the problem, he said.

Wheres Myanmar?

Although Myanmar did not attend the ASEAN meeting, U.S. officials said the delicate state of that nation was part of discussions. In February, the military deposed the elected government and jailed its leader amid allegations of electoral fraud in last Novembers elections.

In April, participants agreed on a five-point plan that called for an immediate end to violence and sent a special ASEAN envoy to the country, formerly known as Burma.

National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said that the bloc, with the help of the U.S., is trying to reach a regional solution. On Monday, he said he met virtually with officials from Myanmars government-in-exile.

We discussed broader diplomacy with key countries in the region and those with influence on the military junta, and how the United States could send strong messages to those countries, as well, he said. And in fact, just this morning, President Biden has participated in the U.S.-ASEAN Summit, and ASEAN has taken the step of denying a seat at that summit to the junta leader.

That exclusion, Parameswaran said, was no mere formality.

I think it's a significant move, he said. ... In a virtual setting, you literally had a screen where Myanmar was a blank screen while the meeting was going on. And I think this is a very sort of vivid signal from ASEAN. I think the jury remains out on how ASEAN manages this challenge. I mean, the fact remains that when ASEAN admitted Myanmar into the grouping, they were very aware of these challenges, and they decided to keep Myanmar in rather than keeping Myanmar out. So, this is something which ASEAN can't sort of sweep under the rug and sort of say this is a Myanmar problem. It is a Southeast Asia problem. It is an ASEAN problem.

Whats next?

Sullivan told VOA that the U.S. will continue to support ASEANs five-point plan to bring about a solution.

We will continue to stay focused on our steadfast support for the people of Burma for a democratic path in Burma, he said. And for the protection of the safety, security and human rights of the citizens.

On to the G-20

In a way, these meetings form a preview for the administrations vow to conduct aggressive diplomacy. What that looks like in practice is likely to come into focus in the coming days, as Biden heads to Rome on Thursday for the meeting of the worlds 20 wealthiest nations, known as the G-20. And from there, to the 26th United Nations climate summit in Glasgow.

President Biden and key European partners will sit down at these two summits to coordinate policies on Iran, on supply chains, on global infrastructure efforts and so much else, Sullivan said.

He noted that two of the worlds top leaders who wont attend the summits in person could affect the outcome.

Neither China nor Russia will be attending the summit in person at the leader level, largely, it seems, due to COVID-19, Sullivan said. The U.S. and Europe will be there. They'll be there energized and united at both the G-20 and at COP26, driving the agenda, shaping the agenda as it relates to these significant international issues.

Eva Mazrieva, Virginia Gunawan contributed to this report.
A British court will consider this week whether Julian Assange, founder of the Wikileaks website, can be extradited to the United States on charges of hacking and theft. The two-day hearing began Wednesday in Londons high court.

U.S. prosecutors appealed a British district court verdict from January, which ruled that Assange should not be extradited because it was possible he could commit suicide in a maximum-security U.S. prison.

That premise will be challenged by prosecutors, said lawyer Nick Vamos, a former head of extradition at Britains Crown Prosecution Service, now a partner at London-based law firm Peters & Peters.

What the U.S. government (has) now done is come forward with a specific assurance about exactly how, where and in what condition he will be detained. So, provided his medical condition and his risk of suicide hasnt changed, then you would assume that the U.S. government (has) met the test that the district judge in the first judgment set them, Vamos told VOA.

Other developments since the January ruling could affect the case. Sigurdur Thordarson, a former Wikileaks insider-turned-FBI informant, has said he fabricated evidence used by the prosecution.

Meanwhile last month, Yahoo News published a story alleging the CIA plotted to kidnap or even kill Assange in 2017 when he sought asylum at the Ecuadorean embassy in London. Yahoo said the story was based on interviews with 30 former U.S. intelligence and national security officials.

Vamos said the defense will claim there is political motivation behind the extradition request.

It will be argued that, well, if the CIA were willing to assassinate him  thats one arm of the U.S. government  then really, you cant trust the other arm of the U.S. government, the Department of Justice, to act fairly and to prosecute him in accordance with human rights standards and what we would consider to be a fair trial, he said.

The CIA and U.S. lawyers leading the extradition appeal have yet to comment on the Yahoo story. Former CIA director and former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told The Megyn Kelly Show podcast in September that all actions taken were "consistent with U.S. law.

We desperately wanted to hold accountable those individuals that had violated U.S. law, that had violated requirements to protect information and had tried to steal it. There is a deep legal framework to do that. And we took actions consistent with U.S. law to try to achieve that, Pompeo said.

Military leak

In 2010 and 2011, Assange oversaw the publication by Wikileaks of tens of thousands of diplomatic cables and military reports relating to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. He said the leaks exposed abuses by the U.S. military.

Assange sought refuge in the Ecuadorean embassy in London in 2012 after facing accusations of rape in Sweden, a case that was later dropped. He stayed there for seven years until Ecuador allowed British police to arrest him in April 2019. He was then jailed for 50 weeks for breaching bail.

Now 50, he is currently being held in Belmarsh prison in London, as he is considered a flight risk.

Experts say the extradition case raises vital questions about freedom of the press.

There is the huge, huge issue of global media freedom and the way that this case could set a terrible precedent for any journalist, any publisher, trying to expose the misdeeds and wrongdoing of government, so that government can be held accountable, Julia Hall of Amnesty International said in an interview with VOA.

Assange faces 18 U.S. federal charges relating to allegations of hacking, theft of classified material and the disclosure of the identities of U.S. informants, which prosecutors say put the informants lives at risk.

A verdict on the extradition appeal will likely take several weeks. Whoever loses can appeal the decision to Britains Supreme Court, which could take several years. However, Supreme Court judges may rule against considering the case, Vamos said.

It has to be on a point of law of general public importance. The Supreme Court doesnt hear factual disputes and doesnt hear arguments that have been settled well before in lower courts, he told VOA.
China has pressed the Taliban interim government in Afghanistan to "effectively" protect the rights of women and renewed its call for lifting international sanctions against the conflict-torn country to help it tackle a looming "economic chaos."

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi discussed the issues in two days of talks with Taliban leaders that concluded Tuesday in Doha, Qatar, officials said. Taliban officials said their high-level delegation included Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.

"China hopes that the Taliban can further demonstrate openness and inclusiveness, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction," a post-meeting Chinese statement quoted Wang as saying.

"[The Taliban] should effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children  and build a modern country that conforms to the wishes of the people and the trend of the times," Wang emphasized.

The Chinese chief diplomat urged the international community to support Afghanistan in dealing with "the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties," and in placing the country on a path of "sound" development.

"China urges the Western countries, led by the United States as a whole, to lift sanctions, and calls on all parties to engage with the Afghan Taliban in a rational and pragmatic manner," Wang added.

The Taliban regained control of the country in August, but they have been denied access to the Afghan central banks foreign assets of about $10 billion, mostly held by the U.S. Federal Reserve, over human rights and other concerns.

The restriction has raised the prospects of an economic meltdown in Afghanistan, where the United Nations says more than four decades of deadly conflicts and recurrent natural disasters have resulted in a protracted food crisis affecting millions.

U.N. officials have said Afghanistan is on its way to becoming the worlds "largest humanitarian crisis" this winter, as more than half of the population, nearly 23 million people, will face acute hunger unless urgent assistance arrives.

Tuesdays statement quoted Baradar as assuring Wang the Taliban continue to take "inclusive measures" and recruit personnel of all Afghan ethnicities to participate in state governance in the future.

"The Afghan Taliban is willing to strengthen the efforts to protect the rights and interests of women and children and will not deprive them of the rights to education and work," Baradar said.

He informed the Chinese delegation that women in Afghan medical institutions, airports and other places have resumed their work, while girls in many provinces have returned to school.

Baradar noted that authorities still face difficulties, however, such as lack of facilities and funds, hoping increased international assistance can help overcome the challenges.

For their part, Taliban officials described the talks with Chinese officials as fruitful, saying the two sides reviewed bilateral diplomatic relations, trade and educational opportunities for Afghan students in China.

A Taliban spokesman said in a statement the two sides agreed "to hold joint meetings in the future and create mechanisms to further broaden cooperation" between Kabul and Beijing.

The spokesman added that China has pledged an additional $6 million worth of humanitarian assistance, including medicine and food. China already has pledged about $31 million worth of aid to Kabul, including food supplies.

Terrorism concerns

Wang reiterated that Beijing "hopes and believes" the Taliban will "make a clean break" with the anti-China East Turkistan Islamic Movement [ETIM] and other terrorist organizations and will "resolutely crack down on them."

China blames ETIM militants for carrying out terrorist attacks, especially in its western Xinjiang region bordering Afghanistan. Operatives of the outlawed extremist group are known to have hideouts on the Afghan side.

Baradar was quoted as assuring Wang the Taliban attach "great importance" to Chinese security concerns and will "resolutely honor" their promise of not allowing "anyone or any force" to use Afghan soil to harm China.

Joint appeal

Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in a joint appeal Tuesday urged the global community to urgently send humanitarian and economic aid to Afghanistan.

"They disused the situation in Afghanistan. They called on the international community to provide immediate humanitarian and economic assistance to the people of Afghanistan to alleviate their suffering, prevent instability and flight of people, as well as continued engagement for rebuilding of the country," Khans office said after his telephone call with Xi.
Global pledges to cut greenhouse gas emissions are just a fraction of whats needed to prevent catastrophic global warming, according to a new report from the United Nations Environment Program.

The warning comes ahead of the critical COP26 Climate Summit in Glasgow which begins next week.

World leaders pledged to restrict global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels at the Paris Climate Summit in 2015. However, those promises are not being matched with policies, according to the United Nations Emissions Gap Report 2021, published Tuesday.



The report warns that new commitments to reduce emissions made in the run-up to the Glasgow summit  known as Nationally Determined Contributions or NDCs  will reduce greenhouse gases by just 7.5% by 2030, compared to previous pledges. Restricting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius would require emissions cuts of 55 percent.

Following an unprecedented drop of 5.4 percent in 2020, global carbon dioxide emissions are bouncing back to pre-COVID-19 levels, the report says.

A strong rebound in emissions is expected in 2021. Preliminary estimates suggest fossil energy CO2 emissions could grow by 4.8 percent in 2021 and global emissions in 2021 are expected to be only slightly lower than the record level of 2019.

Petteri Taalas, the secretary-general of the U.N.s World Meteorological Organization, said Monday the world is on course for potentially disastrous climate change. So far, we have heard lots of political support for enhanced ambition of mitigation, but the concrete pledges have still been missing, and at the moment, we are heading towards 2.5 to 3 degrees [Celsius] warming rather than 1.5 to 2 degrees.



So what does that mean for the planet  and for humankind?

Scientists say climate change is already increasing the frequency and intensity of heat waves. A recent report from Chatham House calculated that globally, heat-related mortality has increased by nearly 54% among the elderly since the turn of the century, reaching 296,000 deaths in 2018.

We expect around about 400 million people to be experiencing heat waves to the extent that they're no longer able to work outside, Chatham House report co-author Daniel Quiggin told VOA.

Heatwaves and droughts would have a big impact on global food security. Crop failures and the increased prevalence of pests and diseases  such as the locust plague in east Africa last year  would lead to soaring prices.

Over the next 30 years, about 50% more food is going to be required due to more people being on the planet, but also expectations around eating more meat  particularly in countries like China and Southeast Asia and so on. But at the same time, under our assessment we anticipate that yields, harvests decline by around about 30%. That will only result in food price rises, making it more expensive so the poorest are unable or unlikely to be able to afford them, Quiggin said.

Warmer temperatures lead to more intense tropical storms and flooding. Longer term, melting ice caps will lead to sea level rises, putting coastal cities at risk.

Extreme weather fluctuations also mean more intense and more prolonged droughts. Scientists say richer nations must deliver on their 2015 promise to help poorer nations pay for combating climate change and deal with its impacts.

The big cascading impacts that we see coming out of drought, heat waves, agricultural drought, are migration, food insecurity for everyone, and the increased prevalence of pests and diseases. So, there's a vested interest for those wealthy countries to ensure the climate finance  that $100 billion per year that's been pledged for some time, since Paris [climate summit] and before, is actually delivered upon. And it's not being delivered upon at the moment, Quiggin told VOA.

As world leaders prepare for Glasgow, the stakes for our planet  and for the human race  are getting higher; the impacts close to irreversible. Can a new global agreement be reached to slash emissions well beyond current commitments?



Summit host British Prime Minister Boris Johnson gave his assessment Monday. I'm very worried. Because it might go wrong. And we might not get the agreements that we need. It's touch and go, it's very, very difficult, Johnson told an audience of children in London.

Scientists say the outcome of the Glasgow summit will likely affect each and every one of us, on a warming Planet Earth.
At least 20 asylum seekers have tested positive for COVID-19 while being detained at a hotel in Australia.

About 46 male asylum seekers have been detained at the Park hotel in Melbourne. Almost half have tested positive for COVID-19.



Some are reportedly immuno-compromised, including one detainee who has burns to more than half of his body after he set himself on fire at an offshore processing facility.



The detainees were flown in from Australian offshore migrant camps in Papua New Guinea and Nauru during the past two years, mostly for medical treatment.



The Australian Border Force, which operates the hotel detention facility, says those who are unwell have been "closely monitored" and given proper medical care. A media release states that "multiple nursing staff [are] on-site and a general practitioner has attended the site and is available via telehealth at all times. It adds that all detainees in Australian immigration detention facilities have been offered COVID-19 vaccinations.



However, refugee advocates tell a different story. They insist the hotel has become an incubator for the virus, and that nursing staff work only during the day.



Ian Rintoul, a spokesperson for the Refugee Action Coalition, a community campaign organization, describes conditions inside the hotel as a national scandal.



There is one who has been hospitalized quite seriously. People have serious symptoms, chest pain. Some people are quite unwell. Others, you know, [have] mild symptoms, but the idea that they are being monitored regularly is just nonsense. They have got no access to fresh air, no access to exercise. It is not a proper facility to be quarantining or isolating people, he said.

Almost every asylum seeker in the Melbourne hotel has been detained by Australia for more than eight years.

A 2013 policy barred any migrant trying to reach Australia by sea from resettlement.



Papua New Guinea was one of two Pacific countries paid by Canberra, along with the small Pacific republic of Nauru, to detain asylum-seekers and refugees.

The agreement with Papua New Guinea, or PNG, is scheduled to finish at the end of the year. Migrants there will either be transferred to Nauru or be allowed to resettle in PNG.



Australia grants resettlement visas to about 13,700 refugees each year under various humanitarian schemes.



Australia has detected 160,000 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began. More than 1,600 people have died.



Seventy-four percent of the eligible population is fully vaccinated, and long lockdowns in Sydney, Canberra and Melbourne were recently lifted.
Iranian media say the country's gas stations have been the target of a cyberattack that left many motorists stuck in long lines at closed stations.

The attack, which was reported by the semiofficial ISNA news agency, targeted a government system that manages fuel subsidies.

The Associated Press reports its journalists saw long lines at stations in the country's capital, Tehran.

"I have been waiting a couple of hours for the gas stations to reopen so that I can fill up," said a motorcyclist who gave his name only as Farzin, AP reported. "There is no fuel wherever I go."

ISNA said that when people tried to buy fuel with government subsidy cards, they received the message, "Cyberattack 64411."

That number was also seen during a summer cyberattack on the country's railway system.

Most Iranians rely on the subsidy cards, which allow them to buy gas at extremely low prices compared to much of the rest of the world.

Iranian state TV reported that officials were holding an emergency meeting to address the apparent hack.

Some Persian-language news outlets based outside Iran reportedly showed videos shot in the city of Isfahan showing an electronic billboard reading, "Khamenei! Where is our gas?"

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is Iran's supreme leader.

The attack came on the birthday of the late Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, who fled the country in 1979 in the face of the Islamic Revolution, also known as the Iranian Revolution.

It also comes near the anniversary of the November 2019 rise in fuel prices, which set off large-scale protests. Hundreds were reportedly killed when the government cracked down on the protesters.

Some information in this report comes from The Associated Press and Reuters.


Afghanistan is facing a severe food shortage. With the winter coming, supply lines to large parts of the country will be cut off by snow. Aid agencies say they are rushing to stave off crippling hunger and malnutrition in freezing cold temperatures. VOAs Ayesha Tanzeem met Afghan families struggling to feed their children. This is their story. Camera: Malik Waqar Ahmed, Producer: Malik Waqar Ahmed, Mariam Alimi contributed to this report.
Egypt's state of emergency will be lifted for the first time in years, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi said on Monday.

Egypt imposed a state of emergency in April 2017 after deadly bombings of churches and has since routinely extended it at three-month intervals, despite an improved security situation.

"Egypt has become ... an oasis of security and stability in the region," el-Sisi wrote in a Facebook post. "Hence it was decided, for the first time in years, to cancel the extension of the state of emergency in all areas of the country."

The state of emergency granted authorities sweeping powers to make arrests and crack down on what they call enemies of the state.

It was applied during the extension of a clampdown on political dissent under el-Sisi that has swept up liberal as well as Islamist critics over the past few years.

Egypt's security forces have also been battling an insurgency by militants linked to Islamic State in northern Sinai, although they have recently consolidated their position in the area.

Prominent Egyptian activist Hossam Baghat welcomed the decision, saying it would stop the use of emergency state security courts, although it would not apply to some high-profile cases already referred to such courts.
Wildlife officials and environmental groups in Florida are raising an alarm over the unprecedented die-off this year of manatees, the large, slow-moving sea animals that are the southeastern U.S. state's official marine mammal.

The latest figures from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission show that as of October 15, 974 manatees have been found dead, more than twice the number that died all of last year and more than any other year on record.

The number represents more than 10% of the total population of manatees in the state.

Officials fear the onset of winter and colder weather could bring another wave of deaths.

Environmental officials say there is no real mystery for the die-off. They say over the past 10 years, seagrass, the primary food for the animals, has been steadily declining.

When wildlife officials conducted postmortem examinations on the bodies found in the first half of the year, the vast majority were found to have starved to death.

Environmental experts say the seagrass is being killed off by declining water quality traced to man-made sources such as fertilizer runoff, wastewater discharges and other pollutants. State estimates show that since 2009, about 58% of the seagrass has been lost in the Indian River Lagoon, a prime habitat for manatees, The Associated Press reported.

The Florida Legislature this year approved $8 million in funding for a manatee habitat restoration program run by state and federal environmental officials.

The Associated Press reports the Fish and Wildlife Commission is calling for state lawmakers to approve another $7 million for seagrass restoration projects, manatee rehabilitation centers and other projects.

The manatees in Florida are West Indian animals known for their round bodies, large front flippers and paddle-shaped, flat tails. The average adult is just more than 3 meters long, weighs as much as 550 kilograms and may live as long as 65 years. They are closely related to elephants.

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press.


For the first time since last months elections, Germanys lower house of parliament, the Bundestag, met Tuesday and elected a new speaker from the winning center-left Social Democrats (SPD) party to lead the 736-member body.

The 53-year-old Baerbel Bas, from the western German city of Duisburg, has been in the Bundestag since 2009. She served as deputy leader of the SPD parliamentary group in the last parliament and its spokesperson on health, education and research.

Following her election, she noted the diversity of the new parliament and urged her fellow lawmakers to reach out to many people in this country, especially to those who have not felt addressed by politics for a long time."

German Chancellor Angela Merkel attended the meeting, and as she is no longer a lawmaker, watched from the visitors gallery. Merkel served as Germanys chancellor for the past 16 years.

Later Tuesday, German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier was scheduled to formally dismiss Merkel and her Cabinet, although they will be asked to stay on in a caretaker capacity until a new government is in place.

The SPD won the most seats in the parliamentary elections, but failed to win a clear majority, and is working with the environmentalist Greens and pro-business Free Democrats to form Germanys new government.

The parties said last week they hope to have the countrys next chancellor  certain to be SPD leader Olaf Scholz  in place by early December, but acknowledged they still have a lot of work to do.

Some information for this report comes from AP, Reuters, and AFP.
Uzbekistan has completed another election without real opposition. Yet Uzbeks, hungry to express their preferences, still turned out to vote, flocking to polling stations at a rate of over 80%. International observers say that is notable in a country that has undertaken halting and tentative reforms in recent years.

Anthony Bowyer of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems spent a month in Uzbekistan monitoring the campaign, visiting 30 polling stations on the October 24 election day. He sees the official turnout number as accurate, calling it a signal that people expect more from their leadership.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who ran for the Liberal Democratic Party, crushed four token rivals: the National Revival Democratic Partys Alisher Kadirov, the Peoples Democratic Partys Maqsuda Vorisova, the Justice Social Democratic Partys Bahrom Abduhalimov, and the Ecological Partys Narzullo Oblomurodov. These putative opponents lost badly to an incumbent who won with a whopping 80% of the official tally.

Several voters who talked to VOA on election day said they chose Mirziyoyev in part because he is a known quantity. Some rural voters said they chose the president even though the changes he promised have not come to our village yet. For many, his opponents were unknown, their parties irrelevant.

Others, like Rukhsora, a young Tashkent professional, said they are happy with the changes, which include greater openness and accountability than during the rule of authoritarian President Islam Karimov from 1989 to 2016. The fact that we still have many problems does not make him a bad president."

Uzbekistan has struggled to reflect opposition in a government-managed vote. Tashkent students complained that other candidates did not bother seeking their votes. If you want to become president, should you not try to win hearts and minds? They cant expect our vote just because their name is on the ballot, said Sobir from Kashkadarya.

All candidates toured the country, while their representatives held community forums. But they were never seen together. And candidate debates are unheard of in Uzbek presidential elections.

Yet many voters remember live TV debates during parliamentary elections in 2019 as an exciting hint of what could be. But this time, two debates featuring the candidates representatives went unnoticed.

Should not this be something the presidential nominees personally do? asked a group of law students, attending political forums at the International Media Hall in Tashkent.

A group of international observers concluded Monday that the lack of genuine pluralism and meaningful engagement between candidates or with citizens meant that Uzbekistans presidential election was not truly competitive, while significant procedural irregularities were noted on election day.

But Sherzod Qudratkhoja, rector of the University of Journalism and Mass Communications in Tashkent and a member of the Central Election Commission, said it is not easy to satisfy everybody in a country of 35 million, most of whom are under age 45.

The incumbents clear win does not mean that competition was unfair and undemocratic, Qudratkhoja said.

Its unfair to criticize the absence of heated debates and personality-based campaigns. Uzbekistan is a modest society, and we never claim to be good at political advertising and election strategy. Its clear we lack experience, but we are honest about it. This is not some spectacle. Believe me, we feel the difference now.

The joint observation mission from the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR), the OSCE Parliamentary Assembly, and the European Parliament, acknowledged extensive legal reform but said election legislation still does not yet fully comply with international standards for democratic elections.

This election has shown that the democratic reforms of recent years must be carried forward, said Reinhold Lopatka, leader of the short-term OSCE observer mission. Full respect for basic freedoms and real competition among political forces, which were lacking, will be essential to live up to the peoples democratic aspirations.

Russian, Chinese and Central Asian leaders rushed to congratulate Mirziyoyev but Washington issued a cautiously optimistic statement that did not name the president himself.

We concur with the OSCE-ODIHR monitoring missions observation that the vote was peaceful and characterized by high voter turnout but share the OSCE missions concerns that the elections took place in an overly restrictive political environment and that important election safeguards were disregarded, said the State Department.

The Biden administration called on Tashkent to expand civil and political rights.

Mirziyoyev, for his part, has pledged to improve livelihoods within the span of his second and constitutionally final five-year term.

But experts caution that he may change the constitution. After all, no Uzbek leader has yet left office democratically, with his predecessor dying in office after more than 25 years in power.

A group of pro-Mirziyoyev bloggers told VOA they hope he will break that mold to set an example.

If he turns into yet another strongman, following the path of our previous president, Islam Karimov, everything Mirziyoyev has been doing will be quickly forgotten, said one.

Mirziyoyevs constant refrain that his government is committed to serve the people resonates deeply with supporters who may ultimately call for him stay on.

Foreign observers criticized excessively strict requirements for the right to become a candidate, together with burdensome party registration rules.

The distinction between incumbency and candidacy was blurred, reported the OSCE, giving Mirziyoyev an undue advantage. It criticized the fact that even private media provided more coverage to him than to the other four candidates combined.

Party officials agree Uzbekistan deserves better campaigns and elections but argue that citizens should work towards those goals, mirroring the growing spirit of political activism in the country.

The recent and ongoing reforms are an encouraging sign, said Heidi Hautala, head of the European Parliament delegation. But the exclusion of opposition parties and the lack of genuine competition, as well as the high number of irregularities we saw on election day, remain substantial obstacles in the path of democratization.

Hautala urges that the system Mirziyoyev leads should open further, letting citizens form a genuine civil society.

However, many question the need for a formal opposition, reflecting an innate conservatism born of decades of authoritarian rule. Will opposition solve our longstanding problems? asked a middle-aged female voter. Explaining all problems by pointing to the lack of opposition is quite naive. I travel around the world and dont think opposition parties are a solution.

Bahrom Kuchkarov, vice chair of the Central Election Commission, says citizens are the ultimate judges: We know the shortcomings, but this election is a step forward.
Israel is holding its largest-ever air force exercise this week, joined by several Western countries and India, with the United Arab Emirates' air force chief set to inspect the drills.

Amir Lazar, chief of Israeli air force operations, told reporters the drills "don't focus on Iran," but army officials have said the Islamic republic remains Israel's top strategic threat and at the center of much of its military planning.

Israel has held the "Blue Flag" exercises every two years since 2013 in the Negev desert.

Some preliminary exercises began last week.

Other nations taking part this year include France, the United States and Germany, as well as Britain, whose aircraft flew over Israeli territory for the first time since the Jewish state's creation in 1948.

With more than 70 fighter jets  including Mirage 2000s, Rafales and F-16s  and about 1,500 personnel participating, the drills are the largest-ever held in Israel, Lazar told reporters at the southern Ovda airbase.

Ibrahim Nasser Mohammed Al Alawi, commander of the United Arab Emirates air force, landed in Israel on Monday, the Israeli army said in a statement.

While UAE aircraft are not flying in the drills, Lazar said the visit from the country's air force chief was "very significant."

Agreements that saw Israel normalize ties last year with several Arab countries, including the UAE, Bahrain and Morocco, "opened a variety of opportunities," Lazar said Sunday.

Israel "was looking forward to hosting the Emirates air force" in the future, he added.

Shared concern over common foe Iran was widely seen as a factor that spurred the UAE toward Israel.

Lazar said the "Blue Flag" exercises in part aimed to synchronize different types of aircraft, piloted by various countries to counter armed drones and other threats.

In addition to Iran's nuclear program, Israel has sought to sound the alarm over a fleet of drones it claims Tehran is dispatching to its proxies across the Middle East, including in Yemen, Syria and Lebanon.

Iran is focused "on building an army of UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles)," Lazar said.

It was possible that "some day" the nations participating in the drill would be "working together" to counter the Iranian threat, he added.

Iran and Israel have exchanged sharp rhetoric recently against the backdrop of efforts to renew talks to revive a nuclear deal between Iran and world powers.
The niece of Japanese Emperor Naruhito, Princess Mako, married a commoner Tuesday, relinquishing her royal status following a heavily scrutinized, controversial four-year engagement.

The Japanese Imperial Household Agency issued a statement announcing the marriage of Mako to Kei Komuro, both 30 years old.

The couple broke with tradition by foregoing the usual rituals and ceremonies of royal weddings, including a reception, while Mako also refused the one-off payment of about $1.3 million typically made to royal women who leave the imperial family to marry.

The couple had been classmates at Tokyos International Christian University when they announced their engagement in 2017, saying they intended to marry the next year.

But shortly after the announcement, a dispute involving money Komuros mother, a widow, had received from a former suiter surfaced and the wedding was postponed. Komuro wrote a lengthy statement explaining the situation, and but it is still unclear if the dispute has been fully resolved.

Komuro spent the last three years at law school in New York City, where The New York Times reports tabloid newspapers documented everything from his hairstyle to the food trucks where he bought his lunch.

At a news conference, the former princess addressed the controversies, gossip and mixed public opinion about the relationship, saying, I am very sorry to the people who had trouble (with our marriage). Also, I feel gratitude towards people who cared and quietly worried about me, or people who were not misled by the non-factual information and still continued to support me and Kei."

The couple expressed their love for one another, and Mako said, As we go on with our lives, I think there will be different difficulties. But as we have in the past, we will work together and continue to move on together."

The couple plans to live in New York City.

Some information for this report was provided by The Associated Press, Reuters, and Agence France-Presse
Southeast Asian leaders began their annual summit without Myanmar on Tuesday amid a diplomatic standoff over the exclusion of the leader of the military-ruled nation from the group's meetings.

Myanmar skipped the summit in protest after the Association of Southeast Asian Nations shut out its top general from its meetings.

ASEAN's refusal to allow Senior Gen. Min Aung Hlaing to represent Myanmar at the summit was its harshest rebuke yet of the country's military rulers since they ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi in February.

Brunei, who is this year's chair of the 10-member bloc, invited Myanmar's highest-ranking veteran diplomat, Chan Aye, as a non-political representative, but she didn't attend the meeting, Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi told reporters in Jakarta.

Marsudi said President Joko Widodo told the summit that ASEAN's unprecedented downgrade of Myanmar's participation was a tough decision but it had to be done.

Despite ASEAN's bedrock principles of non-interference in other members' affairs and decisions by consensus, Widodo said it is also obliged to uphold other principles in the ASEAN charter such as democracy, good governance, respect for human rights and constitutional government, Marsudi said.

As a family, ASEAN's helping hand must still be offered to Myanmar ... Indonesia consistently hopes that democracy through an inclusive process can be quickly restored in Myanmar, he quoted Widodo as saying.

Myanmar's military takeover triggered widespread protests and a violent crackdown by authorities. Security forces are estimated to have killed almost 1,200 civilians, though the government has claimed a lower death toll.

Myanmar's absence at the summit followed the refusal of its military leaders to allow an ASEAN special envoy, Brunei Second Foreign Minister Erywan Yusof, to meet with Suu Kyi and other detained civilian leaders.

Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha told the summit that the Myanmar crisis was a test of ASEAN's ability to resolve its own regional problems, Thai government spokesperson Thanakorn Wangboonkongchana said.

Prayut expressed hope that Myanmar will trust ASEAN and allow Erywan to meet with all parties concerned as an important first step in solving the crisis, Thanakorn said.

The three-day talks, which are being held by video due to coronavirus concerns, will be joined by other world leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden and the leaders of China and Russia. It will be the first time since 2017 that a U.S. president has attended the ASEAN summit. The meetings are expected to spotlight Myanmar's worsening crisis as well as other regional security and economic issues.

While ASEAN took a major step in excluding Min Aung Hlaing from the summit, a group of lawmakers working to improve rights in the region, ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights, urged the bloc on Tuesday to engage with Myanmar's opposition National Unity Government. NUG views itself as a shadow government and had sought to attend the ASEAN summit.

ASEAN must discontinue inviting any other junta representatives to all ASEAN official meetings until there is an end to violence, all political prisoners are freed, and the will of the people for fully fledged democracy has been heard, the group said in a statement.

On Monday, a senior U.S. official held a virtual meeting with two NUG representatives. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan underscored U.S. continued support for the pro-democracy movement and expressed concern over the military's violence.

Sullivan said Washington will continue to seek the release of all those unjustly detained, including prominent pro-democracy activist Ko Jimmy, who was arrested in a raid Saturday.
Journalists in the Nigerian capital are demanding authorities probe the disappearance of a colleague who has been missing for two weeks and have held a protest calling for his release.

Tordue Salem, a parliamentary reporter with the independent Vanguard newspaper in Abuja was last seen on October 13 after leaving the national assembly building.

Efforts by family, friends and colleagues to locate the reporter have been unsuccessful.

The reasons for Salem's sudden disappearance were not immediately clear, but many cities, including Abuja, have seen a surge in criminal abductions for ransom in recent months.

No group has claimed responsibility for the journalist's disappearance but his colleagues said they feared the security forces may be to blame.

On Monday, Abuja-based journalists staged a protest in the capital to demand his release.

Dressed in black, the protesters carried placards with inscriptions such as "Journalism Is Not a Crime," "Free The Press," and "Cease Attacking Journalists".

They marched to the gate of the police headquarters where they demanded urgent action on the missing reporter.

"After having reviewed the disappearance and the seeming foot-dragging of the police, we are persuaded that he was targeted," Abuja journalist union leader Emmanuel Ogbeche told AFP.

"It wasnt a random act," he said.

Ogbeche said another journalist, Jones Abiri, detained for more than two years by state security services without trial was released only after pressure by local and international rights groups.

Nigeria's national police said they were doing everything to find the missing journalist.

"We have commenced an investigation and we have done everything humanly and technologically possible to ensure he is found," national police spokesman Frank Mba said.
New York Citys largest police union filed a lawsuit Monday against Mayor Bill de Blasios mandatory COVID-19 vaccination order for all city employees.

The Police Benevolent Association, which represents about 24,000 rank-and-file officers, asked the state Supreme Court to block the mandate because it does not give officers the option of being tested weekly instead of being vaccinated.

The suit was filed in Staten Island, one of New Yorks five boroughs, or autonomous districts, is home to many police officers and, according to The New York Times, has a vaccination rate that is short of the citywide average.

Mayor de Blasio issued an order last week that all of New York Citys 160,000 municipal employees show proof of having gotten at least one COVID-19 shot by Monday, November 1, or be placed on unpaid leave. At least 70% of New York City employees have already received at least one dose.

The citys Law Department said the new mandates are lawful and keep New Yorkers safe.

Every effort to stop the citys vaccine mandates has failed in court, and we believe this suit by the PBA will meet the same fate, a statement said.

Several hundred police officers, firefighters and other city employees marched across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge to City Hall Monday to protest the mayors vaccine mandate. Municipal employees in a handful of other U.S. cities and states have spoken out in opposition of vaccine mandates imposed by mayors and governors.

Some information for this report came from the Associated Press and Reuters.
Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, the spiritual leader of Eastern Orthodox Christians, was released from a Washington hospital Monday morning after an overnight stay early in his 12-day visit to the United States.

Bartholomew, 81, was scheduled to meet with President Joe Biden later Monday at the White House, and also to meet with Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

The patriarch "is feeling well and is ready to continue" his official visit Monday, according to a tweet from Archbishop Elpidophoros of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America.

Bartholomew is the patriarch of Constantinople, based in Turkey. He is considered first among equals among Eastern Orthodox patriarchs, which gives him prominence but not the power of a Catholic pope. He does directly oversee Greek Orthodox and some other jurisdictions, although large portions of the Eastern Orthodox world are self-governing under their own patriarchs.

Bartholomew was brought to George Washington University Hospital on Sunday night after he felt "unwell" due to the long flight here on Saturday and the busy schedule of events, according to the Greek Orthodox archdiocese. The hospitalization was recommended by his doctor "out of an abundance of precaution," the archdiocese said.

Making the latest of several trips to the country during his 30 years in office, Bartholomew is expected to address concerns ranging from a pending restructuring of the American Greek Orthodox archdiocese to his church's minority status in his homeland, Turkey. His schedule Monday includes a visit to the embassy of Turkey in Washington.

Also on Monday, Bartholomew is scheduled to give a speech via videoconference for the Museum of the Bible in Washington, according to the latest schedule released by the archdiocese. An earlier version of his schedule included an in-person visit.

In the evening, he is scheduled to attend a dinner at Georgetown University hosted by its president, John DeGioia, and Cardinal Wilton Gregory, the Roman Catholic archbishop of Washington, D.C.

On Thursday, he is scheduled to receive an honorary degree from the University of Notre Dame in an event highlighting efforts to improve Orthodox-Catholic ties, centuries after the two churches broke decisively in 1054 amid disputes over theology and papal claims of supremacy. And on November 2, he is scheduled to preside at a door-opening ceremony at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church and National Shrine in New York City. The shrine replaces a church destroyed during the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center.


Journalists who cover Russias space program say they may adopt a more cautious approach to their reporting after several aspects of Roscosmos were effectively declared off limits.

A Federal Security Service (FSB) order, which took effect October 11, lays out information that it says could be used to threaten national security if received by foreign organizations or citizens.

The order doesnt directly mention news gathering and is not a blanket ban on coverage of Roscosmos, but in a digital age where reporting is shared online or via social media, journalists say they could risk being in violation of the order.

It is also a provision of Russias foreign agent law, which brings further implications for media.

Spanning 60 types of information, the FSB details content from military, intelligence and space programs that it says could be used to threaten security. At Roscosmos, those topics include financial details, project timelines and some of its space programs; information about plans and restructuring at the space agency; and details on new technologies and materials.

Roscosmos did not respond to a request for comment on how the new order could affect foreign and domestic reporting and referred VOA to the FSB.

The FSB did not respond to VOAs request for comment.

Reporting restrictions

Independent journalists and media analysts describe the order as a tightening of the screw and say it will make it harder to report in a transparent and independent way on the space program.

Alexander Khokhlov, a space and science reporter who contributes to media outlets including TV Rain and Meduza, says the new measures may limit his coverage.

As a precautionary measure, Khokhlov said, he may have to focus only on news coming from Western agencies and companies.

I rarely cover the topics listed in the FSBs order; however, their formulation is rather broad. I will further refrain from writing and commenting on the Roscosmos activity, said Khokhlov, who is also member of the Northwestern Federation of Cosmonautics of Russia.

I might as well focus on covering SpaceX and its gradual progress toward building a colony on Mars, Khokhlov said, referring to the private space program founded by U.S. entrepreneur Elon Musk.

Khokhlov, who has reported on Russias space missions and the rise of the private space sector in the U.S., said the regulations could limit what science journalists can cover.

Describing it as yet another step toward the information vacuum in the field of cosmonautics in Russia Khokhlov said, The risks are already obvious for those trying to present an alternative point of view.

He cited the large number of journalists labeled as foreign agents in the past year.

As of October 15, the Ministry of Justice website lists 32 news outlets and 56 journalists who fall under the designation of foreign agent, including independent networks that are part of the U.S. Agency for Global Media.



Those added to the Russian Justice Ministry list must label all content, including news reports and personal social media posts, as content produced by a foreign agent. Individuals have to send in detailed reports of their finances. Failure to comply can result in fines and possibly criminal charges.

It is a heavy legal and financial load for those (journalists) with the possibility for fines and even felony charges, Khokhlov said.

Russia amended its existing foreign agent law in 2017, in response to the U.S. ordering news groups funded by Moscow to register under the U.S. Foreign Agents Registration Act.

Since then, Russia has used the designation against independent media, civil society organizations and even an election-monitoring group, in a move that critics say is aimed at punishing and discrediting critical and opposition voices.

Analyst Bach Avezdjanov, who until last year was a program officer for Columbia Universitys Global Freedom of Expression program in New York, has been closely monitoring the impact of the law on the countrys independent press.

The FSBs list threatens further the already restricted information environment in Russia, Avezdjanov told VOA.

The Russian government does not hide its intent to arbitrarily designate anyone who collects, researches or reports for academic, journalistic or other purposes, information about Russias military and space program, he said.

Avezdjanov said that regulations could be used to block reporting on allegations of corruption and mismanagement.

He cited an internal audit at the space agency that appeared to show corruption or mismanagement, which resulted in a loss of billions of rubles, and led to criminal cases.

But under paragraph 37 of the new FSB order, which bans information about financial or economic problems, such information can no longer reach the eyes and ears of foreigners, he said.

In effect, the law built a new iron curtain around certain types of information, Avezdjanov said.

This story originated in VOAs Russian Service.
Sudanese military chief General Abdel-Fattah Burhan said Tuesday the army's overthrow of the country's transitional government was necessary to avoid a civil war.

"The whole country was deadlocked due to political rivalries," Burhan said at a televised news conference in Khartoum. "The experience during the past two years has proven that the participation of political forces in the transitional period is flawed and stirs up strife."

Deposed Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and his wife, who had been detained Monday, were allowed to return to their home late Tuesday but were "under close surveillance," a statement issued by his office reported.

Burhan also acknowledged that "we arrested ministers and politicians, but not all" and said that some would face trial for allegedly inciting a rebellion within the county's military.

The U.N. Security Council met privately Tuesday to discuss the situation. The United States, along with council members Britain, Estonia, France, Ireland and Norway, called for the session. U.N. Special Representative for Sudan Volker Perthes briefed them from Khartoum.

Before the meeting, several council members reiterated their government's condemnation of the coup and the need for an end to violence against protesters.

"Two years ago, the people of Sudan put their lives on the line for democracy, and they should not have to do so again," British Ambassador Barbara Woodward told reporters.

Military chief Burhan declared a national emergency Monday and announced the end of the joint civilian-military Sovereign Council that had run the country since August 2019, shortly after the ouster of longtime autocrat President Omar al-Bashir.

He pledged the military would turn power over to a civilian government in July 2023 after general elections are held.

Demonstrators remained in the streets of Sudan's capital, Khartoum, to protest the arrest of Hamdok and other officials of the Sovereign Council.

The Sudan Doctors Committee said at least four people were killed and 80 injured Monday when security forces opened fire on demonstrators.

Despite the violence, protesters were on the streets of Khartoum again Tuesday, condemning the coup and shouting "no to military rule."

The U.S. Embassy in Sudan has warned Americans in the country to shelter in place.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the African Union and the Arab League were among those alarmed and dismayed Monday at the latest events in Sudan, and they called for the country to stay on a path toward civilian rule.

Guterres also expressed concern about the growing number of coups worldwide. "We are seeing a multiplication of coup d'etats" that are the result of "strong geopolitical divides," he said.

There have been coups this year in Myanmar and in the African nations of Niger, Chad, Mali and Guinea.

He told reporters Tuesday that the Security Council's "difficulties" in taking strong measures have created an atmosphere in which some military leaders feel they can act with "total impunity."

"My appeal, obviously, is for  especially the big powers  to come together for the unity of the Security Council in order to make sure that there is effective deterrence in relation to this epidemic of coup d'etats," Guterres said.

The White House said it was "alarmed" by the developments, while the U.S. State Department said it was suspending $700 million in financial assistance to the country.

A joint statement issued by the United States, Britain and Norway through the State Department condemned the coup and called on Sudanese security forces to immediately release all people "unlawfully detained."

"The actions of the military represent a betrayal of the revolution, the transition, and the legitimate requests of the Sudanese people for peace, justice and economic development," the statement read.

In a statement Tuesday, Sudan's ambassador to the U.S., Nureldin Satti, condemned the coup "that has put an end to the civilian democratic transition in Sudan."

"I am heartened to see that my colleagues in Brussels, Paris and Geneva, and New York have followed suit and condemned the military coup," Satti added. "We shall work with other colleagues in the diplomatic service and in the diaspora to resist the military coup in support of the heroic struggle of the Sudanese people to achieve the objectives of the December 19, 2018, revolution."

Hamdok, an economist and diplomat who has worked for the U.N., was named the country's transitional prime minister in August 2019. The transition received strong support from Western countries, including the United States, which removed Sudan from its state sponsors of terrorism list.

But Hamdok faced stiff resistance from elements of Sudan's military. On September 21, forces still loyal to al-Bashir used tanks to block a key bridge and attempted to seize power. The coup was put down, and dozens of soldiers were arrested.

Thousands took to the streets last week to protest the prospect of a return to military rule.

"This country is ours, and our government is civilian," protesters chanted.

Michael Atit of VOA English to Africa's South Sudan in Focus radio program and U.N. correspondent Margaret Besheer contributed to this report. Some information in this report also came from The Associated Press, Reuters and Agence France-Presse.
The United Nations refugee agency is set to begin aid operations in support of ethnic Rohingyas on a remote Bangladeshi island where more than 20,000 Rohingya refugees have been relocated by the Bangladesh government. The refugees, relocated to the Bay of Bengal island of Bhasan Char, have over the past year complained of poor food and living conditions, among other grievances.



The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Bangladesh government agreed earlier this month to work together to support the refugees, but the arrangement has not been made public.



Some Rohingya from the island said they welcome the U.N. agency on the island. But others said the island will remain unlivable even after the UNHCR starts its operations there.





Rights groups have often called Bhasan Char a prison-island for refugees. They have urged the UNHCR and the government to publicly release details of the agreement so that others can monitor compliance with its terms.



The Bangladesh government set up the Bhasan Char facility to house about 100,000 Rohingya refugees, saying it was anxious to ease congestion in Coxs Bazar, where hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugee fled amid a Burmese military campaign in 2017.



But rights groups have long argued the island, formed naturally by Himalayan silt, is vulnerable to natural disasters and is not suitable for human settlement.



Since their arrival on Bhasan Char, the refugees have complained they are living in jail-like conditions, with very poor amenities. In recent months, some 400 refugees have been caught by police while attempting to flee the island. Scores of others managed to escape back to Coxs Bazar.



Now, amid news the UNHCR will begin providing services on Bhasan Char, some Rohingya on the island say they are happy.





Our lifestyle will certainly improve when UNHCR comes here. We will get good rations. Our children will get a good education. The agency will also give us some jobs, Mohammad Raihan, 20, who moved to Bhasan Char earlier this year, told VOA.



Another Rohingya on the island echoed Raihans views.



Sometimes the police harass Rohingya refugees. If UNHCR is present here, the police will not be able to harass us, said a 36-year-old Rohingya who does not want to be identified, fearing reprisal from police.



UNHCR will help us get very good medical facilities, too, the refugee told VOA.



Some other Rohingyas, though, said Bhasan Char will remain unlivable even after the UNHCR starts its operations there.



Rohingyas who are in Bhasan Char now have seen how the island sinks under the sea during high tide. Heavy rain and tsunami can drown the island completely, and all Rohingyas there will get killed, said a 36-year-old Rohingya man who fled Bhasan Char and returned to a mainland camp a few weeks ago in Coxs Bazar. He spoke to VOA on condition of anonymity for fear of being arrested and forcibly returned to Bhasan Char.



Rohingyas are desperately trying to flee Bhasan Char. Will the UNHCR be able to save the lives of the islands Rohingyas in cases of big natural disasters?



Many Rohingyas compare the Bhasan Char facility to a prison.



Almost all Rohingyas in Bhasan Char have their relatives in Coxs Bazar. But they are not allowed to leave the island to visit their relatives. Whatever amenities you provide on Bhasan Char, most Rohingyas there will feel they are trapped in a prison there, said a Rohingya man in Coxs Bazar who does not want to be identified, fearing reprisal from the government.



Bangladesh has announced it has a plan to relocate 80,000 more refugees to Bhasan Char over the next few months.



After the agreement between the UNHCR and Bangladesh government was signed, Regina de la Portilla, UNHCR communication officer in Coxs Bazar, told VOA in an emailed statement the U.N. agencys services on the island will be tailored to cover basic needs and essential services such as food, nutrition, health, water, sanitation and hygiene, as well as protection, education, skills development and livelihood opportunities, among others.



Global rights groups have said the agreement between UNHCR and government of Bangladesh should be made public.



UNHCR and the government of Bangladesh should publicly release their agreement so that everyone, most especially the Rohingya refugees themselves, can see what has been promised about the future situation on Bhasan Char, said Phil Robertson, deputy director of Human Rights Watch's Asia division.



Without clarity on what the two sides have agreed on, its hard to assess what the future holds for those stuck on Bhasan Char, who have so far faced separation from families, lack of adequate food and medical services, no access to livelihoods, and physical abuses and torture by Bangladesh security personnel on the island.



VOA has seen a leaked copy of the agreement between the UNHCR and government of Bangladesh, which offers no guarantee that the refugees from the island will be allowed to move freely to the mainland.



While noting that his organization obtained and reviewed a copy of the agreement, Ismail Wolff, Bangkok-based regional director of Fortify Rights, said in a statement the U.N. and Dhaka should revise their MoU [Memorandum of Understanding], especially a provision outlining restrictions on freedom of movement [of the refugees].



UNHCRs lifesaving services are essential and needed on the island, but the agency must ensure it is not propping up a refugee prison with this agreement, Wolff said.



Robertson of HRW added that the principle of freedom movement is really sacrosanct and needs to be part of any agreement.



Refugees should not be forced to go to the island, and they should be free to leave the island and return if they desire. UNHCR needs to have constant, unfettered access to the refugees on the island, so they are able to monitor conditions and protect the rights of the refugees there. And the international community and donors need to be alert and ready to press Bangladesh to uphold rights of refugees in all circumstances, Robertson said.
Car rental company Hertz says it will buy 100,000 electric cars from Tesla.

Hertz interim CEO Mark Fields said the Model 3 cars could be ready for renters as early as November, The Associated Press reported.

Fields said the reason for the move was that electric cars are becoming mainstream, and consumer interest in them is growing.

"More are willing to try and buy," he told AP. "It's pretty stunning."

All of the cars should be available by the end of 2022, the company said. When all are delivered, they will make up 20% of the companys fleet.

Hertz, which emerged from bankruptcy in June, did not disclose the cost of the order, but it could be valued at as much as $4 billion, according to some news reports.

The company said it plans to build its own charging station network, with 3,000 in 65 locations by the end of 2022 and 4,000 by the end of 2023. Renters will also have access to Teslas charging network for a fee.

Tesla stock jumped as much as 12% on the news

Some information in this report came from The Associated Press.




South Korea's president said Monday he'll keep striving to promote peace with North Korea through dialogue until the end of his term next May, after Pyongyang raised animosities with a resumption of provocative weapons tests.

While launching a spate of newly developed weapons in recent weeks, North Korea has also slammed Washington and Seoul over what it calls hostility toward the North. Its actions indicate North Korea wants its rivals to ease economic sanctions against it and accept it as a legitimate nuclear state, experts say.

In his final policy speech at parliament, President Moon Jae-in said he'll "make efforts to the end to help a new order for peace and prosperity on the Korean Peninsula be established through dialogue and diplomacy."

Moon, a champion of greater reconciliation with North Korea, once shuttled between Pyongyang and Washington to help facilitate now-stalled nuclear diplomacy between the two countries. Pyongyang turned a cold shoulder on Moon after its diplomacy with Washington broke down in early 2019 amid bickering over the sanctions.

Moon praised himself for paving the way for a peace process on the Korean Peninsula by holding three summits with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and helping arrange the first-ever North Korea-U.S. summit between Kim and then-President Donald Trump in 2018.

But Moon acknowledged his push for peace through dialogue remains "incomplete."

Moon's single five-year term ends next May, and he's barred by law from seeking reelection. The presidential candidate of Moon's ruling liberal party has unveiled a similar North Korea policy as Moon's. Surveys indicate a neck-and-neck race with a potential conservative candidate, who will likely take a harder line on the North.

Moon's appeasement policy on North Korea has been divisive, with his supporters call him a peace-making mediator while his opponents accused him of helping North Korea find ways to weaken international pressure and perfect its weapons systems.

The North Korean weapons systems tested recently are mostly short- and medium-range weapons that place South Korea and Japan within their striking ranges. Last Tuesday, North Korea fired a ballistic missile from a submarine in its most significant weapons test since President Joe Biden took office in January.

Some experts say North Korea may test a longer-range missile that could pose a direct threat to the American homeland to increase its pressure on Washington in coming weeks.

In part of his efforts to ease tensions, Moon has recently been pushing for a symbolic declaration to end the 1950-53 Korean War, which ended with an armistice, not a peace treaty. When Moon meets Pope Francis at the Vatican this week during his European tour, they'll discuss a possible North Korea trip by Francis as the pope has repeatedly expressed hopes to visit the North, according to Moon's office.

South Korea's Unification Ministry said Monday the government will make efforts to help realize Francis' trip to North Korea if related talks have progress. Spokeswoman Lee Jong-joo said a North Korea visit by the pope would make a big contribution to peace on the Korean Peninsula.
Sudanese protesters demonstrated into the night Monday after the military seized power in an apparent coup.

Security forces opened fire on protesters earlier Monday, killing three demonstrators, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee. The group said at least 80 people have been injured.

Sudan's military chief, General Abdel-Fattah Burhan, declared a nationwide state of emergency Monday and announced the end of a joint civilian-military council that ran the country for the past two years.

The general made a televised address after military forces arrested Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other officials of the Sovereign Council.

Burhan said he dissolved the council and the government due to "political quarrels that were threatening the security of the country" and announced that a "new government of technocrats will soon be appointed."

Journalist Michael Atit, who is in the Sudanese capital, told VOA's South Sudan in Focus that thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Khartoum following reports of Hamdok's arrest. Atit reported hearing gunfire and seeing tires burned in the streets.

Atit said most telecommunications in Khartoum have shut down, including the internet and radio stations. Only a state-owned television station was on the air, broadcasting patriotic music.

U.N. Special Representative for Sudan, Volker Perthes, said the military "took control of Khartoum, closing the entrances and the bridges, and closing down the airport and also taking control of state TV."

He briefed reporters in New York virtually from Khartoum, saying that as night fell in the city, he could see from his location barricades still burning and could hear occasional gunshots. He described the situation as "fluid."

The events were a sharp turnaround from what many had hoped would be a transition toward a civilian-led, democratic government in Sudan, where former President Omar al-Bashir ruled with an iron fist during 30 years of rule that ended with his ouster by the military in April 2019.

"Those in support of a military takeover will argue that this is a 'correcting' of the path of the revolution, but I think many who have had their hearts set on a transfer of power to a full civilian rule will see this definitely as a setback," said Isma'il Kushkush, an independent journalist and former East Africa reporter for The New York Times.

"I see this as a setback for the transition into a democracy," Kushkush told VOA.

Hamdok, an economist and diplomat who has worked for the U.N., was named the country's transitional prime minister in August 2019. The transition won strong support from Western countries, including the United States, which removed Sudan from its state sponsors of terrorism list.

But Hamdok faced stiff resistance from elements of Sudan's military. On September 21, forces still loyal to al-Bashir used tanks to block a key bridge and attempted to seize power. The coup was put down, and dozens of soldiers were arrested.

U.S. embassy, AU Commission react

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the African Union, and the Arab League were among those expressing alarm and dismay Monday at the latest events in Sudan and called for the country to stay on a path toward civilian rule.

The White House said it was "alarmed" by the developments, while the U.S. State Department said it was suspending $700 million in financial assistance to the country.

"In light of these developments, the United States is pausing assistance from the $700 million in emergency assistance appropriations of economic support funds for Sudan," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.

"We reject the actions by the military and call for the immediate release of the prime minister and others who have been placed under house arrest. The actions today are in stark opposition to the will of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace, liberty and justice," said principal deputy White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum warned Americans in the city to shelter in place.

The U.N. Security Council is set to meet Tuesday to discuss the situation.

Last week, thousands of protesters took to the streets to voice concern about the prospect of a return to military rule.

"This country is ours, and our government is civilian," protesters chanted.

'Major blow' to democracy in Sudan

The Sudanese Professionals Association, an organization made up of trade unions instrumental in organizing the protests, called on the public Monday to go out and occupy the streets to protect the transitional government.

"It is a major blow to the democratic experiment in Sudan," said Cameron Hudson, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Africa Center, an expert on Sudan and a former White House Africa director.

The apparent coup comes a day after U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman concluded two days of meetings in Sudan to underscore U.S. support for Sudanese democracy.

Hudson said Feltman received assurances from military leaders that they were committed to the work of the transitional government.

"The U.S. has invested more diplomatically in Sudan than almost anywhere else in the world in trying to prove that countries can move from autocracy to democracy," Hudson told VOA. "This is a setback to transitions in Chad, Mali and Guinea where the stakes are high, but which had not received nearly as much U.S. diplomatic attention as Sudan."

Kushkush said there had been other attempts at military intervention leading up to the coup Monday. However, despite earlier coup attempts and support for a military takeover, Kushkush said, there were also thousands of Sudanese in several cities and throughout the diaspora voicing support of the democratization process.

"From Day One of [the ousting of] al-Bashir, the greatest fear that many Sudanese had was that the fate of the Sudanese revolution will be similar to that of the similar uprisings in the region and perhaps that the greatest fear is unfolding as we speak," Kushkush said.

U.N. correspondent Margaret Besheer, Michael Atit of VOA English to Africa's South Sudan in Focus radio program, and Salem Solomon contributed to this report. Some information in this report also came from Agence-France Presse.


Both the Islamic State terror group's Afghan affiliate and al-Qaida could be ready to launch strikes against the United States and the West sooner than previously thought following the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The Pentagon's third-highest ranking official told lawmakers Tuesday that the latest intelligence suggests Islamic State Khorasan, also known as ISIS-K, is on a faster track to regenerate its external strike operations, though al-Qaida's terror operatives are not far behind.

"Both al-Qaida and ISIS-K have the intent to conduct external operations," Defense Department Undersecretary for Policy Colin Kahl said, testifying before the Senate Armed Services Committee.

"We could see ISIS-K generate that capability in somewhere between six and 12 months," Kahl said. "Al-Qaida would take a year or two to reconstitute that capability."

Fears that the terror groups could gain strength in Afghanistan following the departure of U.S. and coalition troops are not new. U.S. and Western officials have warned for months that both groups were poised to take advantage of the absence of U.S. boots on the ground.

Officials and analysts cautioned that IS Khorasan in particular had already bolstered its clandestine networks in Afghanistan and surrounding countries in the months leading up to the U.S. pullout.

Attacks sooner rather than later

But the intelligence shared with lawmakers Tuesday suggests both IS Khorasan and al-Qaida may have made additional gains in recent months, allowing them to speed up the time frame, which top Pentagon and intelligence officials previously put at six months to three years.

"I don't think they are nearly as well-resourced as ISIS in Iraq and Syria were back in the heyday," Kahl told lawmakers of the threat from IS Khorasan, though he warned the affiliate's links to the terror group's global network is troubling.

"They do have a cadre of a few thousand folks, some of which would love to conduct external attacks," he said. "I think we have to be vigilant that a subset of ISIS-K could develop the resources and the capability to strike outward to the U.S. homeland."

Kahl's warning echoes the concerns of other top U.S. officials, who likewise have cautioned IS Khorasan has been steadily building momentum.

During a congressional hearing last month, Washington's top counterterrorism official, Christine Abizaid, told lawmakers that the group seemed to be taking advantage of the notoriety it got for carrying out the deadly attack on Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul in the waning days of the U.S. withdrawal.

"Will it become more focused on the West? Will it become more focused on the homeland than it was?" Abizaid asked at the time.

U.S. officials have also said IS Khorasan has benefited from the way Taliban forces took over Afghanistan, emptying prisons and releasing thousands of IS supporters and fighters.

"What we see is ISIS newly rejuvenated," General Kenneth "Frank" McKenzie, the commander of U.S. forces in the Middle East and South Asia, told lawmakers last month about the Taliban's indiscriminate opening of Afghanistan's Parwan prison in August.

Other U.S. officials now estimate the IS group has at least 2,000 "hardcore" fighters in cells across Afghanistan, though some foreign intelligence services think the number may be higher.

Growth of groups a concern

And there are concerns IS Khorasan's numbers, as well as those for al-Qaida, could soon start to swell, with intelligence reports suggesting supporters of both groups have started to head to Afghanistan.

Getting a sense of how much both terror groups could grow, though, will be difficult.

Kahl said the U.S. is conducting daily surveillance flights over Afghanistan while also using technical capabilities to obtain information on each group's plans.

But U.S. military and intelligence officials have consistently warned that getting vital intelligence on the threat is more difficult without a U.S. presence on the ground.

There are also questions about what role the Taliban will play, if any, in limiting the threat of terror plots emanating from Afghan soil against the U.S. and other Western countries.

"We have seen signs  that the Taliban is wary about Afghanistan being a springboard for al-Qaida external attacks, not because the Taliban are good guys but because they fear international retribution if that were to occur," Kahl said.

U.S. officials have likewise said there is an expectation the Taliban will crack down on IS Khorasan, which already has launched attacks against Taliban targets across Afghanistan.

Still, there is concern that it won't be enough.

"The Taliban certainly have a vested interest in quashing any Islamic State elements," Katherine Zimmerman, a fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, told VOA.

"[But] the gap between the will of the Taliban to eliminate the Islamic State and the Taliban's capabilities to do so seems to be large enough that the Islamic State threat will persist from Afghanistan," she said.

There are also lingering questions about the ability of U.S. forces to successfully limit terrorism threat from "over the horizon."

Despite ongoing discussions, the U.S. has so far failed to acquire any basing options that would allow it to establish drones and other assets in the region, instead relying on flights from its bases in the Persian Gulf, some eight hours away.

"We've not secured firm basing arrangements," Kahl told lawmakers, noting ongoing talks with Pakistan, Uzbekistan and Tajikistan.

"They [Pakistani officials] continue to give us access to Pakistani airspace, and we're in conversations about keeping that airspace open," he added. "They don't want Afghanistan to be a safe haven for terrorist attacks, not just against Pakistan but against others."

Biden critics' worries

A number of U.S. lawmakers have been highly critical of U.S. President Joe Biden's decision to move ahead with the Afghanistan withdrawal, charging it has laid the groundwork for a terrorist revival in Afghanistan.

"The consequences of the president's disastrous decisions are impossible to ignore," Senator Jim Inhofe, the top Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, said Tuesday.

"The danger is likely to grow across the world in our own backyard," he said, adding that "instead of putting together a real counterterrorism plan for the future, all we get is buzzwords."

Lieutenant General James Mingus, the Joint Chiefs director for operations, on Tuesday tried to allay those concerns.

"We are actively setting the conditions to ensure we remain situationally aware and are postured to mitigate and neutralize developing terrorist threats," Mingus told lawmakers.

He also said intelligence estimates that IS Khorasan or al-Qaida could launch terror attacks in six months to a year were, "based on no U.S. or coalition intervention."

"Our efforts in the months ahead, and as we continue to improve our over-the-horizon architecture, is to ensure that that external capability never comes to fruition," Mingus said.

Kahl on Tuesday, also pushed back, while admitting the U.S. needs to "remain vigilant."

"The intelligence community assesses that the overall risk to the homeland across the world is at its lowest point since 9/11," he told lawmakers, arguing other hotspots are just as dangerous, if not more so.

"We're focused on the counterterrorism front on Somalia, the growth of violent extremism in places like the Sahel," Kahl said. "We continue to have to vigilant in Iraq and in Syria and in Yemen."
Police in Uganda are investigating two explosions in Kampala. A blast targeting a bus killed one person on Monday, and an explosion Saturday at a bar in the capital that left one person dead and several others injured. Police blamed both attacks on the rebel Allied Democratic Forces, an affiliate of Islamic State, and said arrests have been made.

At a news conference Tuesday, Ugandan police spokesperson Fred Enanga said the commander of the Allied Democratic Forces, or ADF, Muhammed Nkalubo, coordinated the bombings. Enanga also said police have caught three men involved in setting up the attacks.

"So far, we've managed to arrest three collaborators who were receiving money from the ADF sources and distributing it to their recipients, to their operatives and agents in the country."

He said the suspects, identified as Abdulrahman Waibi, Sanyu Nakitende and Aisha Katushabe, distributed $114,000 in connection with the attacks.

Great Lakes Region security analyst Dismas Nkunda said it would not be surprising if the reports about the ADF are true, considering the group is based in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The group has been operating in the DRC for the past 20 years after being pushed out of Uganda. Authorities say the group is expanding to other countries in the region

Nkunda says the bombings could show new aggression on the part of the ADF.

"It would be a new chapter in understanding how the conflict in Uganda is going to be, if it's a terrorist institution that is bent on causing maximum harm."

The ADF, which opposes President Yoweri Museveni's government, has been affiliated with Islamic State since 2016, when Nkalubo pledged allegiance to the militant group.

On its Telegram page Monday, Islamic State claimed responsibility for the bombing at the bar, claiming members and spies of the Ugandan government were gathered there.

That evening, the bomb on the bus exploded as the vehicle headed to the Bushenyi district in western Uganda. One person was killed. The dead man was identified as Isaac Matovu, whom the police suspect was transporting the bomb.

No one has claimed responsibility for that attack.
Ugandan police are investigating an explosion on a long-distance bus that killed one person Monday, the second fatal blast in less than 48 hours in the East African country.

The bus was traveling from the capital, Kampala, to the western part of Uganda.

The cause of the blast was not immediately known. Police said in a statement they dispatched bomb experts to the scene in central Uganda.

Initially, police had said two people on the bus were killed but later said there had been one death, without explaining the revision. They made no mention of injuries, but the Red Cross, which sent ambulances, said at least one person was injured in the leg.

On Saturday, a bomb explosion at an eatery in a busy Kampala suburb killed one person. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for that attack.

The extremist group said in a statement late Sunday that it detonated an explosive device at the eatery allegedly "frequented by elements and spies" with Uganda's government.

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni described Saturday's explosion as an apparent terrorist act.

Museveni said three people entered the eatery where pork is grilled and left a plastic bag with contents that later exploded. Police have not announced any arrests.

The British government updated its travel guidance for Uganda this month to say extremists "are very likely to try to carry out attacks."
Britain's Queen Elizabeth has pulled out of the COP26 conference in Glasgow next week after she was advised by doctors to rest, Buckingham Palace said on Tuesday, in a blow to the United Nations climate summit.

A palace source said the decision to not attend had been taken as a "sensible precaution" and to let everyone know in advance. The queen remains in good spirits and wants COP26 to be a success, the source added.

"Following advice to rest, The Queen has been undertaking light duties at Windsor Castle," Buckingham Palace said.

"Her Majesty has regretfully decided that she will no longer travel to Glasgow to attend the Evening Reception of COP26 on Monday, 1st November."

The 95-year-old queen, the world's oldest and longest-reigning monarch, stayed overnight in hospital last Wednesday after undergoing "preliminary investigations" for an unspecified but not COVID-19 related ailment.

She carried out her first official engagement since the hospital stay earlier on Tuesday, holding two virtual audiences to welcome the new ambassadors to Britain from South Korea and Switzerland.

Elizabeth, who is queen of 15 other realms including Australia, Canada and New Zealand and next year celebrates 70 years on the throne, is known for her robust health and still carrying out many public duties.

News of the cancellation is likely to raise concerns about her health. She was recently overheard saying she was irritated by world leaders who talk about climate change but do nothing to tackle it.

The queen had been due to attend an evening event next Monday at the conference where world leaders will meet including U.S. President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Britain has cast the United Nations COP26 climate conference which begins in Glasgow on Oct. 31 as the last big chance to slow rising temperatures, and hopes to persuade leaders to adopt tougher climate targets.

However Johnson said on Monday it was "touch and go" as to whether COP26 would succeed in securing the requirements needed to limit the rise in the average global temperature to 1.5 degree Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

The queen will deliver an address to the assembled delegates via a recorded message, the palace added. Elizabeths son and heir Prince Charles and his eldest son Prince William are still due to attend.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres announced the appointment Monday of Singaporean Noeleen Heyzer as his new special envoy on Myanmar.

She will succeed Christine Schraner Burgener of Switzerland, who will step down Sunday after three-and-a-half years in the post. Schraner Burgener has spent the past nine months dealing with the fallout from the post-November election military coup, which has mired Myanmar in chaos and violence. More than 1,100 civilians have been killed, thousands jailed and more than 250,000 displaced.

Heyzer, 73, is a social scientist and former U.N. official. Her U.N. biography says she was the first woman to serve as the executive secretary of the U.N. Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific from 2007 to 2014.

She also worked closely with regional bloc ASEAN and the Myanmar government on recovery efforts after Cyclone Nargis in May 2008. The tropical storm devasted the country and killed more than 140,000 people.

Heyzer was former U.N. chief Ban Ki-moons special adviser for Timor-Leste from 2013 to 2015, involved in peace-building, state-building and sustainable development. She was also the executive director of UNIFEM, the precursor of U.N. Women, from 1994 to 2007.

She will have her work cut out for her.

The Myanmar military has ignored international pressure to reverse its February power grab and return power to the democratically elected National League for Democracy (NLD). Violence has spread across the country, and the NLDs National Unity Government has formed its own Peoples Defense Force.

Myanmar is rapidly moving towards the abyss, Schraner Burgener warned on Friday.
United Nations officials say more than 100,000 people are displaced in central Somalia following days of fighting between the government forces and a group opposing the region's local administration.

The clashes that began last week in Gurieel town in Somalia's Galmudug federal state are reported to have killed at least 120 people, most of them soldiers or fighters.

The fighting is between government forces and their former ally, Islamist group Ahlu Sunnah Wal Jama'a. Gurieel is the second largest town in Galmudug state and both sides want control of the town ahead of parliamentary elections.

Speaking at a virtual conference Tuesday, James Swan, the U.N. representative in Somalia, called for an end to the fighting.



"We are concerned that this is a distraction from other critical priorities, namely the completion of the electoral process and a continuation of the fight against al-Shabab," Swan said. "As a consequence, we would certainly welcome efforts by the parties to this conflict to pause on the ongoing hostilities and explore opportunities for talks or dialogue that might allow for peaceful resolution of the situation without further suffering of the people."

Mohamed Ayoya, UNICEF's country representative in Somalia, says the aid agencies are struggling to provide humanitarian assistance to the population in the area.



"Our assessment so far has shown that 20,000 households have been displaced and that's more than 100,000 people," he said. "The problem is that getting access to people with the service we can offer at the time is extremely complicated and difficult. So as we speak, we on the ground, we have partners trying to provide the services in terms of water and sanitation, hygiene but also food."

The aid agencies said health centers have been damaged in the conflict, reducing people's ability to access health care.



The U.N. also said a local humanitarian organization was targeted while doing their work, and one of its workers was killed.



The U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs said 7.7 million Somalis will be in need of assistance in 2022, as conflict, unpredictable weather patterns and diseases continue to disrupt people's lives.

Delayed elections



In recent months, Somalia has been locked in political crisis due to delays in elections, caused by threats from al-Shabab militants and disagreements over the process.



Swan says the postponements contribute to the overall state of distress in the country.

"These delayed elections are occupying such a central place in the attention of the leadership of the country at this time that, unfortunately, it is causing other critical priorities to be deferred," he said. "We can look across the board at the development agenda, additional work to be done in the security sector. We can look at longer-term state-building priorities around the constitution, around establishing the rule of law institutions, judicial institutions."

In hopes of ending the Galmudug conflict, Somali opposition groups have urged the government to stop sending reinforcement troops to the town.


U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Tuesday urged member states of the United Nations to support Taiwan's "robust" participation in U.N. agencies.

The appeal is a direct challenge to China, which claims that Taiwan is part of its territory and that it has sole right to represent the island internationally.



Taiwan held the Chinese seat at the U.N. for more than two decades after the Nationalist government of Chiang Kai-shek retreated to the island as Communist forces overran the mainland in 1949.

The seat was transferred to Beijing in 1971 by a vote of the General Assembly, but Taiwan has since been permitted to participate in some U.N. agencies.

"The fact that Taiwan participated robustly in certain U.N. specialized agencies for the vast majority of the past 50 years is evidence of the value the international community places in Taiwan's contributions," Blinken said in a statement. "Recently, however, Taiwan has not been permitted to contribute to U.N. efforts."

The top U.S. diplomat said Taiwan's exclusion from U.N. forums "undermines the important work of the U.N. and its related bodies, all of which stand to benefit greatly from its contributions."



"That is why we encourage all U.N. member states to join us in supporting Taiwan's robust, meaningful participation throughout the U.N. system and in the international community," he said.



China has said it is "gravely concerned" about U.S. advocacy for Taiwan's participation in global organizations and that Washington's efforts will fail.



In recent months, tensions have increased between Beijing and Taipei, with Beijing sending dozens of warplanes on flights through Taiwan's air defense zone.



Even as it supports a one-China policy, the U.S. sends military aid to Taiwan.



Last week, at a CNN town hall, U.S. President Joe Biden said the United States has a commitment to defend the island and would come to Taiwan's defense if China attacked it.



Later, the White House said there has been no change in U.S. policy.


Efforts to revive the 2015 Iran nuclear deal are at a "critical phase" and Tehran's reasons for avoiding talks are wearing thin, a U.S. official said Monday while raising the possibility of further diplomacy even if the deal cannot be resuscitated.

U.S. Special Envoy for Iran Robert Malley told reporters Washington was increasingly worried Tehran would keep delaying a return to talks but that it had other tools to keep Iran from developing a nuclear weapon and would use them if need be.

"We're in a critical phase of the efforts to see whether we can revive the JCPOA," Malley said, referring to the deal formally called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. "We've had a hiatus of many months, and the official reasons given by Iran for why we're in this hiatus are wearing very thin."

While saying that the window for both the United States and Iran to resume compliance with the agreement would eventually close, Malley said the United States would still be willing to engage in diplomacy with Iran even as it weighed other options to prevent Tehran from getting the bomb.

He also hinted at the economic benefits that might flow from Iran's return to the agreement, under which Tehran took steps to limit its nuclear program in return for relief from U.S., European Union and U.N. economic sanctions.

Then-U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned the pact in 2018 and reimposed harsh U.S. sanctions. About a year later, Iran began violating some of the deal's limits, including on uranium enrichment. Enriching uranium can provide a path to obtain the fissile material for an atomic bomb, an ambition Iran denies.

While saying the window for returning to the JCPOA will not be open forever because eventually Iran's nuclear advances will have overtaken it, Malley said Washington would continue to look for diplomatic arrangements with Tehran.

"You can't revive a dead corpse," he said, stressing that the United States had not reached that point yet. "We will continue to pursue diplomacy, even as we pursue other steps if we face a world in which we need to do that."

Malley declined to describe those other steps. Since talks in Vienna on reviving the deal adjourned in June, Washington has increasingly spoken of pursuing other options, a phrase that hints at the possibility, however remote, of military action.

The envoy, who spent last week consulting U.S. partners in the Gulf and in Europe, emphasized that all sides had "a strong preference for diplomacy, for an effort to revive the JCPOA and, were that to happen, to find ways to engage Iran economically."

Iran has said for more than a month that it would "soon" return to indirect talks in Vienna with the United States on resuming compliance with the accord but has yet to set a date.

Iran's nuclear negotiator, Ali Bagheri Kani, plans to meet on Wednesday in Brussels with the EU's Enrique Mora, who coordinates talks among Iran and other parties to the deal: Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States.

Western officials worry that the longer Iran remains outside the nuclear deal, the more expertise it will gain, shortening the time it might need to race to build a bomb if it chose to.

In a step likely to raise tensions, Iran is expanding its enrichment of uranium beyond the highly enriched threshold of 20% purity at a Natanz plant where it is already enriching to 60%. But the new activity does not involve keeping the product, the U.N nuclear watchdog said.


White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan met on Monday with representatives of Myanmar's National Unity Government (NUG), set up by opponents of army rule, the White House said late on Monday.

In the virtual meeting, Sullivan reiterated continued U.S. support for the pro-democracy movement in Myanmar and discussed ongoing efforts to restore the country's path to democracy with NUG representatives Duwa Lashi La and Zin Mar Aung, the White House said in a statement.

Sullivan expressed concern over the military's violence and said, "the U.S. will continue to promote accountability for the coup", according to the White House.

Protests and unrest have paralyzed Myanmar since the Feb. 1 coup, with the military accused of atrocities and excessive force against civilians. The junta blames the unrest on "terrorists" allied with the shadow government.

Recognizing Myanmar's junta as the country's government would not stop growing violence, the outgoing United Nations special envoy on Myanmar said earlier on Monday.

Sullivan expressed particular concern over the recent arrest of pro-democracy activist Ko Jimmy and noted the United States will continue to advocate for his release, according to the statement.

Sullivan and the NUG officials also discussed the COVID-19 pandemic in Myanmar and ongoing U.S. efforts to provide humanitarian assistance directly to the people of Myanmar, the statement added.
The United States says it will review its support for an elite unit of the Somali National Army following its participation in a battle against a former ally in the fight against al-Shabab extremists.

An official at the U.S. embassy in Mogadishu spoke to VOA's Somali service following reports that U.S.-trained elite Somali forces known as Danab, or "lightning," took part in this week's fighting in the central Somali town of Guriel.

The fighting pits government troops and Galmudug regional forces against the militias of Ahlu Sunna Wal Jama'a (ASWJ). The moderate Islamist group is a rival to al-Shabab, which the United States considers the major militant threat in the region.

A Danab commander, Major Abdilatif Ahmed Ali Fayfle, was among those killed in the fighting.

The U.S. official in Mogadishu, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the embassy is aware of the reports that Danab forces were involved in the fighting and of the death of the Danab commander.



The official said the support would be reviewed as a result of that involvement.

"The United States provides training and support coordination to Somali National Army Danab Brigade units to advance our shared objective of defeating al-Shabab," said the official. "As a result of this incident, we will be reviewing the support we provide to ensure it is being used appropriately and consistent with U.S. policy and objectives."

VOA Somali tried unsuccessfully to contact the commander of Somali national forces, General Odawaa Yusuf Rageh, who was in the Guriel area this week.

The fighting in Guriel, which started on Saturday, has claimed the lives of dozens of people, injured scores of others, and displaced about 100,000 Somalis, according to local officials and health workers.



ASWJ militias were ousted from the area in early 2020 following the formation of a new administration for Galmudug state. The group's leaders fled the area at the time.

Earlier this month, the group suddenly remerged ahead of planned parliamentary elections, sparking the current armed conflict against the federal government and Galmudug forces.

The official said the U.S. extends condolences to the families and loved ones of all those affected.

"We call on all sides to cease military operations and engage in political dialogue towards peaceful resolution," said the official.

The U.S. has been training and providing support to Danab since 2013. Danab, which is currently about 1,400 military personnel, has bases in southern and central Somalia. In addition to training the Danab soldiers, the U.S. has been carrying out airstrikes against al-Shabab militants in support of the Somali government.


Zimbabwe police have arrested 40 former freedom fighters who were protesting against poor pension earnings in Harare.

According to the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR), the arrested war veterans are currently detained at Harare Central Police Station, Rhodesville Police Station and Highlands Police Station.

In a tweet, the ZLHR said the former freedom fighters are yet to be advised of the charges they are facing by ZRP.

The war vets, represented by Paidamoyo Saurombe, Blessing Nyamaropa and Tinashe Chinox of the ZLHR, say they are failing to make ends meet due to poor pensions earnings.

Police spokesperson, Senior Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, could not give details about the arrest saying he has not yet received documents related to the matter.

One of the arrested war veterans, Hillah Mutasa, told VOA Zimbabwe that former freedom fighters are getting less than US$100 per month in pension earnings.

We are struggling for survival while some people are in government and are former freedom fighters are living lavishly. We are suffering. We get less than US$100 per month, said Mutasa, who lives in Mabvuku.

War veterans were given lump sums of $50,000 each in the 1990s after they protested against lack of pensions.

The late former President Robert Mugabe gave them the gratuities, which were used by some to buy an assortment of goodies.

The Zimbabwe dollar plunged following the parceling out of the gratuities.
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Zimbabwe police have arrested 40 former freedom fighters who were protesting against poor pension earnings in Harare.
Sudan's military seized power in an apparent coup Monday, with a top general declaring a nationwide state of emergency and announcing the end of a joint civilian-military council that ran the country for the past two years.

Lt. General Abdel Fattah Al-Buhran made a televised address after military forces arrested Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok and other officials of the formerly ruling Sovereign Council.

The general said he dissolved the council and the government due to "political quarrels that were threatening the security of the country," and announced that a "new government of technocrats will soon be appointed."

Journalist Michael Atit, who is in the Sudanese capital, told VOA's South Sudan in Focus that thousands of protesters flooded the streets of Khartoum following reports of Hamdok's arrest. He reported hearing gunfire and seeing tires burned in the streets.

The Sudan Doctors Committee said that two people were killed when security forces opened fire on the protesters.

Atit said most telecommunications in Khartoum have shut down, including the internet and radio stations. Only a state-owned television station was on the air, broadcasting patriotic music.

The events were a sharp turnaround from what many hoped would be a transition toward a civilian-led, democratic government in Sudan, where former president Omar al-Bashir ruled with an iron fist during 30 years of rule that ended with his ouster by the military in April 2019.

"Those in support of a military takeover will argue that this is a 'correcting' of the path of the revolution, but I think many who have had their hearts set on a transfer of power to a full civilian rule will see this definitely as a setback," said Isma'il Kushkush, an independent journalist and former East Africa reporter at the New York Times.

"I see this as a setback for the transition into a democracy," Kushkush told VOA.

Hamdok, an economist and diplomat who has worked for the U.N., was named the country's transitional prime minister in August 2019. The transition won strong support from Western countries, including the United States, which removed Sudan from its state sponsors of terrorism list.

But Hamdok has faced stiff resistance from elements of Sudan's military. On September 21, forces still loyal to al-Bashir used tanks to block a key bridge and attempted to seize power. The coup was put down and dozens of soldiers were arrested.

US embassy, AU Commission react

U.N. Secretary General Antonio Guterres, the African Union and the Arab League were among those expressing alarm and dismay Monday at the latest events in Sudan, and calling for the country to stay on a path toward civilian rule.

The White House said it is "alarmed" by the developments.

"We reject the actions by the military and call for the immediate release of the prime minister and others who have been placed under house arrest. The actions today are in stark opposition to the will of the Sudanese people and their aspirations for peace, liberty and justice," said Deputy White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre.

The U.S. embassy in Khartoum warned Americans in Khartoum to shelter in place.

Last week, thousands of protesters took to the streets to voice concern about the prospect of a return to military rule. "This country is ours, and our government is civilian," protesters chanted.

The Sudanese Professionals Association, an organization made up of trade unions instrumental in organizing the protests, called on the public Monday to go out and occupy the streets to protect the transitional government.

"It is a major blow to the democratic experiment in Sudan," said Cameron Hudson, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council's Africa Center, an expert on Sudan and former White House Africa director.

The apparent coup comes a day after U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Jeffrey Feltman concluded two days of meetings in Sudan to underscore U.S. support for Sudanese democracy.

Hudson said Feldman received assurances from military leaders that they were committed to the work of the transitional government.

"The U.S. has invested more diplomatically in Sudan than almost anywhere else in the world in trying to prove that countries can move from autocracy to democracy," Hudson told VOA. "This is a setback to transitions in Chad, Mali, and Guinea where the stakes are high, but which had not received nearly as much U.S. diplomatic attention as Sudan."

Kushkush said there had been other attempts at military intervention leading up to the coup Monday. However, despite earlier coup attempts and support for a military takeover, Kushkush said, there were also thousands of Sudanese in several cities and throughout the diaspora voicing support of the democratization process.

"From day one of [the ousting of] al-Bashir, the greatest fear that many Sudanese had was that the fate of the Sudanese revolution will be similar to that of the similar uprisings in the region and perhaps that the greatest fear is unfolding as we speak," Kushkush said.
One on One with Joe Korkowski, as heard Saturdays on KXRA-1490AM (@7:40am) and KXRA-92.3FM (@8:00am), as well as each Sunday morning on KXRZ Z99.3fm (@10:15am).

The interview is also re-broadcast on Monday mornings on KX92 at 10:00am and on Z99 at 9:10am.
LaVon Rapp, age 95, of Alexandria, died on Tuesday, November 16, 2021. Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 20, 2021, 11:00 a.m. at Zion Lutheran Church in Alexandria with visitation one hour prior to the service at the church.
Funeral Announcements A daily list of current funeral annoucements as heard on KXRA 1490 AM/100.3 FM

News Updates The daily news, sports, and events delivered daily from Voice of Alexandria.



Sports Update This current sports headlines delivered daily from Voice of Alexandria.

Upcoming Events This email is the events of the area delivered daily from Voice of Alexandria.

Breaking News The big news. Sent only as it happens.
The implementation of the conclusions of the US-Russia summit in Geneva (known as "Yalta II"), held on June 16, 2021, continues. It seems that the concessions made by Washington to Moscow are much more significant than previously thought. President Vladimir Putin continues to put the world back in order not only in the wider Middle East, but also in Africa and Asia. Substantial changes are already observable in four months. In the Russian tradition, nothing is announced, but everything will be revealed en bloc when things have become irreversible.

The Anglo-Saxons have accepted their defeat

In early September 2021, the US hinted that it was allowing Hezbollah to violate US embargo laws on Syria and Iran and to procure Iranian fuel oil via Syria. Then Jordan reopened its border with Syria. Finally, the Anglo-Saxon press began a series of articles aimed at clearing President Bashar al-Assad of the crimes he was accused of and rehabilitating him. It all started with an article in The Observer, the Sunday edition of The Guardian, headlined "Pariah Assad sold to West as key to Middle East peace" [1].

One thing led to another and Newsweek featured the Syrian president on its cover with the headline: "Hes back", followed by the subheading: "In a triumph over the United States, Syrian leader Bashar al-Assad claims a place on the world stage" [2]. The computer version of the weekly even goes further with the caption of a photograph talking about the "presumed" chemical attack in Ghoutta, where the US and French presidents, Barack Obama and Francois Hollande, had accused the "criminal regime" by name of having crossed "the red line". So goodbye to the ten-year rhetoric of "Bashar must go".

The military defeat that President Joe Biden admitted in Geneva in June is now being assimilated by the Anglo-Saxon press. The rest of the West can only follow suit.

Syrias re-establishment on the international stage is underway: Interpol has taken corrective action to end its sidelining, King Abdullah II of Jordan and Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed of the United Arab Emirates have indicated that they have spoken with President Assad. The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, has quietly gone to Damascus to discuss, at last, the return of expatriates. The West had been opposed to this for a decade and paid the countries hosting them handsomely not to let them return home.

Turkey a victim of its double standards

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has presented his parliament with the renewal of his armys mission to fight Kurdish PKK terrorists in Iraq and Syria; two countries he illegally occupies.

He is playing a double game: as a member of NATO, he is negotiating arms with Washington (80 F-16 fighter planes and 60 fleet modernisation kits), but he is negotiating others with Moscow, from which he has already bought S-400s; a risky game that is coming to an end. Washington and Moscow are bringing weapons to Syria and may have joined forces to put Ankara in its place as they did with London, Tel Aviv and Paris in 1956 during the Suez expedition. Contrary to appearances, Russia knows that it will not succeed in separating Turkey from the US. It is fighting the Turkish army in Libya and Syria, remembers President Erdogans personal involvement in Chechnya, and more generally the opposition between Russia and the Ottomans.

The Syrian army ended the battle of Deraa (southern Syria) to its advantage, allowing Jordan to reopen its border. The jihadists preferred to lay down their arms than to take refuge in Idleb, under the protection of the Turkish army. From now on, Syrian troops are massing in front of the occupied Idleb governorate (north of the country), ready to free their territory.

The Western press did not give any information on this terrible battle, on the understanding that Deraa could not have been liberated without the discreet withdrawal of Israel and the United States. The population, which has suffered greatly, seems for the moment to hate both its compatriots and its former allies who have abandoned it.

Turkey is gradually alienating all its partners. It competes with the United States and France in Africa. Its army is fighting in Libya. It has a military base in Somalia, welcomes Malian soldiers for training on its soil, sells arms to Ethiopia and Burkina, and has signed a cooperation agreement with Niger (not to mention its military base in Qatar and its involvement in Azerbaijan).

The Osman Kavala affair, named after the leftist businessman turned George Soros man in Turkey, who was arrested in 2017, bodes ill. A dozen states -including the United States, France and Germany- circulated a letter on social networks demanding the immediate release of the defendant accused of being involved in the attempted military coup of July 15, 2016. On October 22nd, President Erdogan reacted by apostrophising the ambassadors concerned with his usual arrogance: "Is it your place to teach Turkey a lesson? Who do you think you are?".

President Erdogans personal position seems increasingly delicate. A wind of rebellion is blowing in his own political party. He could be thanked by his own if things turn out badly for his country in Idleb.

Lebanon between a bright future and civil war

President Joe Biden seems determined to leave Lebanon to Russia and exploit the gas and oil reserves straddling Lebanon and Israel. He has sent his long-time advisor, Israeli-US Amos Hochstein, to shuttle between Beirut and Tel Aviv. His presence attests to the extreme importance of the subject. This IDF officer was an advisor to Joe Biden when he was Vice President of the United States. At the time, in 2015, he had already managed this file and had almost reached an agreement. He can succeed, as this amoral businessman knows both the political file and the technical constraints of hydrocarbon exploitation. He is pushing for the exploitation of reserves without solving the thorny border issue. The two countries could exploit together and share the benefits by prior agreement.

In Lebanon, the leaders of the sectarian groups are trying every possible manoeuvre to keep their fading power, even if it means destroying the countrys future.

The Parliament has nightly voted two amendments to the electoral law. The first one aims at bringing forward the date of the legislative election from 8 May to 27 March. The Muslims were asking to be able to campaign effectively as it fell in the middle of the Ramadan holiday month. But the new date appears to be a way to prevent General Abbas Ibrahim, the head of counter-intelligence, from being elected and succeeding the Speaker of Parliament Nabbi Berry. The constitution requires senior officials to have left office six months in advance before entering politics.

President Emmanuel Macron had planned to deploy French troops to "secure" the electoral offices. On May 8, he will probably no longer be President of the French Republic and there is no evidence that his successor will approve his decision. On March 27, however, he will still be in charge.

The second amendment changes the way expatriates will be able to vote. They will not elect deputies from abroad, but will vote for deputies from their home constituency. Some hope this will substantially change the outcome. In fact, all this is of little importance as the electoral system pre-determines the number of MPs per faith group without any relation to the demographic reality; a fine example of election without democracy.between Russia and the Ottomans.

The other major debate is the investigation into the explosion in the port of Beirut on August 4, 2020. Judge Tarek Bitar faces a number of immunities, starting with that of former Prime Minister Hassan Diab, who fled to the United States as soon as he left office and is the subject of an arrest warrant. Hezbollah, which paid the price of the investigation into the assassination of Rafik Hariri, does not want the investigation to follow this example, but it comes up against the secrecy of the investigation. Finally, he vehemently demanded that the judge be dismissed and organised a demonstration to this effect. Arriving in front of a Christian neighbourhood, the procession was attacked by members of Samir Geageas Lebanese Forces. They killed seven Shiites and injured about thirty others. The spectre of civil war reignited. It is not clear whether the Lebanese Forces acted on their own or at the instigation of Saudi Arabia, whose champion the Christian Samir Geagea has become.

The slow rapprochement of the enemy brothers, Israel and Iran

Moscow approaches the Israel-Iran conflict as a whole. The two states talk ultra-belligerently about each other, but their practice is quite different. They actually act with each other against certain political trends at home. The fall of Benjamin Netanyahu (a disciple of the colonialist thinker Vladimir Jabotinsky) opens the way for reconciliation.

While the US imposed sanctions on Tehran to force it to abandon its military nuclear programme, Russia never believed that it was continued after 1988. During the 5+1 negotiations of 2013-15 that led to the Vienna Agreement on Iranian nuclear power, Moscow did not demand an end to the nuclear programme, but the possibility of controlling that it does not become military. This is still its position. The current discussions focus on technical details such as the installation of monitoring cameras in Iranian power plants.

The slowness with which Tehran is dealing with this problem is working against it. Of course, the Raissi government is negotiating in the meantime with Saudi Arabia, which is dragging its feet on normalising its relations with Israel. President Ebrahim Raissi hopes to reach a sharing of roles with Riyadh and to announce it when he will give in on nuclear surveillance, but the Saudis are impatient and can also hurt him, as we saw with the attack against Hezbollah demonstrators in Beirut.

The Israelis, for their part, stress that Tehran does not simply rely on foreign Shiite communities as it claims, but on all anti-Israeli forces, whether they are Shiite or not. Thus Iran supplies arms to Sunni Hamas. This alliance is all the more dangerous because Hamas is the Palestinian branch of the Muslim Brotherhood, supported by Turkey and Qatar and not by Saudi Arabia. In the Muslim community, there are no longer two camps (Shiites/Sunnis), but three (Iran/Saudi Arabia/Turkey and Qatar).

Moscow is patiently advancing with Tel Aviv. The aim is to get Israel to return the occupied Golan Heights to Syria by providing guarantees on Irans non-aggressiveness and its withdrawal from Syria.

Mali fears France and seeks Russian protection

The Western defeat in Syria has unforeseen consequences in Africa. Everyone has understood that the world order has been overturned and that it is better to be an ally of Moscow than of the West. While some African states are seeking to diversify their military support by turning to Turkey, the Central African Republic and Mali were the first to question Western aid.

Since 2018, Russia has been accompanying the Central African government to resolve the tribal conflicts, fuelled by France, that have plunged the country into civil war. But Moscow refused to deploy its troops while the situation remained unstable and instead sent a private military company, Yevgeny Prigozhins Wagner Group. In 2019, the government signed a peace agreement with the countrys 14 main armed groups. The country has stabilised, but the government still controls only a small part of it.

Mali is a direct victim of the overthrow of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya in 2011. Muamar Gaddafi was working for the reconciliation of Arabs and blacks, but his assassination awakened centuries of war, on the one hand by re-establishing slavery in his country, and on the other hand the desire for Arab domination over the black populations in Mali. It is this conflict that is expressed through the Arab jihadist push in the north of the country. For the time being, the French forces of Operation Barkhane are trying to prevent the reconstitution of an Islamic Emirate in the Sahel. In practice, this means preventing the conquest of an area with a sedentary black population by nomadic Arab jihadists, but not fighting their organisations.

On October 8, Malian Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga blew the lid off the issue by telling RIA Novosti that France was itself training jihadis in its Kidal camp, which it had banned from Malian forces [3]. The interview was widely covered by Russian television, but did not reach the French airwaves. At most, Le Monde published a clarification from Choguel Kokalla Maiga, but he only denies his negotiations with the Wagner Group and confirms that he is talking to Moscow... about the Wagner Group.

The accusation that the jihadists were being manipulated is very plausible: at the beginning of its intervention, France had held back its soldiers so that they would give the Qatari leadership of the jihadists time to retreat. Other jihadists, this time in Syria, organised demonstrations to denounce the French double standards in supporting them in the Middle East and announcing that they were fighting them in Africa. When Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov expressed surprise to his then French counterpart Laurent Fabius, Fabius laughed and replied that this was realpolitik.

The junta of Colonel Assimi Goita (a disciple of the Third World revolutionary Thomas Sankara) is negotiating with Russia to defend itself from the jihadists supervised by France. Moscow should proceed as in the Central African Republic and send a thousand men from the Wagner Group to restore civil peace. The service of the Russian private military company should be paid for by Algeria.

The balance of power is in question

China [4] and North Korea have reportedly launched hypersonic missiles in quick succession. China denies it, but North Korea proclaims it loud and clear. US experts, US parliamentarians and US generals are terrified because their country cannot master this technology, which makes them vulnerable. This type of missile is based on Soviet technology. President Vladimir Putin announced before the Federal Assembly in 2019 that Russia was on the verge of mastering these missiles with atomic warheads, capable of striking anywhere on Earth without being intercepted [5]. Since it seems impossible that China and even more so North Korea have suddenly reached this technical level, experts unanimously consider that Russia has given them a version of its own weapon.

This technology transfer would have taken place before the announcement of the Australia/UK/USA Alliance (AUKUS). It undermines Washingtons efforts to confront Beijing and Pyongyang. The West has not only suffered a terrible defeat in Syria that forces them to accept a new world order, their "missile shield" is powerless, their armies are now totally out of date.
"NATO has ended up in the attic," wrote the political commentators of several newspapers a month ago, after France had withdrawn its ambassador from Washington on September 16. It was Paris protest at being excluded from the strategic-military partnership between the United States, Great Britain and Australia, announced the day before, and at losing a lucrative contract for the sale of submarines to Australia, which will be replaced by nuclear submarines supplied by the U.S. and Great Britain.

A week after the resounding diplomatic break, however, the French general Lavigne was put in charge of the Allied Transformation Command, with headquarters in Norfolk in the U.S., and the presidents of the two countries, Biden and Macron, published a Joint Declaration.

Biden reaffirmed "the strategic importance of the French and European engagement in the Indo-Pacific" (the region that in Washingtons geopolitics extends from the west coast of the US to that of India). The reason was explained by the Military Committee of the Chiefs of Defence of the 30 NATO countries, meeting in Athens: "While Moscows aggressive actions are a threat to our security, Chinas rise is fundamentally shifting the balance of power, which has potential consequences for our security, our prosperity and our way of life.

In the face of such "threats," they concluded, "we need Europe and North America to stand strong, bound together". Biden reiterated in his joint statement with Macron: "The United States recognizes the importance of a stronger, more capable European Defence Force that is complementary to NATO". Therefore, a militarily stronger Europe, but as a complement to NATO: an asymmetrical alliance, to which 21 of the 27 countries of the European Union belong, in which the position of Supreme Allied Commander in Europe is always held by a general of the United States, which holds all the other key commands in Europe (such as the JFC-Naples with headquarters in Lago Patria).

On this background, the meeting of 30 Defense Ministers (for Italy Lorenzo Guerini, Democratic Party) was held on October 21-22 at the NATO headquarters in Brussels. It created an "Innovation Fund" with an initial allocation of 1 billion euros, to be paid by 17 European countries including Italy, but not by the United States, for the development of the most advanced technologies for war use. It launched the "Strategy for Artificial Intelligence", an even more costly program for NATO to maintain its advantage in this field that "is changing the global defense environment", i.e. the way war is waged. It decided on "improving the readiness and effectiveness of our nuclear deterrent," i.e., deploying new nuclear weapons in Europe, of course with the motivation of defending against "the growing missile threat from Russia."

On the eve of the NATO meeting, the Russian Defense Minister, Sergei Shoigu, warned that "the United States of America has stepped up work with the full support of its NATO allies to modernize tactical nuclear weapons and their storage sites in Europe" and Russia considers particularly worrying the engagement of pilots from the blocs non-nuclear member states in the drills to practice employing tactical nuclear weapons."A message directed in particular to Italy, where the U.S. is preparing to replace B61 nuclear bombs with the new B61-12s and Italian pilots are being trained in their use with F-35s. "We regard this as a direct violation of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons," Russias defense chief stressed.

The message is directed to Italy and other European NATO members who, despite having ratified the Non-Proliferation Treaty as non-nuclear countries, host US nuclear weapons and train for their use. The implicit meaning of the message is clear: Russia considers these countries a source of threat and is taking countermeasures. The message has been ignored as usual by our government and parliament and, of course, by the media that have put NATO in the attic.
The governors of New York and New Jersey have issued states of emergency as a nasty nor'easter sweeps in, bringing severe rain and other dangerous storm activity.

Here's what you need to know to Get Up to Speed and On with Your Day.

(You can also get "5 Things You Need to Know Today" delivered to your inbox daily. Sign up here.)

1. White House

President Biden has refused to assert executive privilege over more documents that former President Trump wants to keep out of the hands of the committee investigating the January 6 Capitol riot. Trump has tried to keep the documents secret by claiming executive privilege, but since he is no longer president, legal experts agree Biden has final say on whether they're covered by such a measure. Biden previously refused to assert executive privilege over a similar batch of Trump-related documents, and the White House has said Biden wants the committee to have as much information as possible about January's attack. Meanwhile, the Biden administration is expected to name Kim Wyman, a Republican secretary of state who challenged Trump's false claims of election fraud, to a key election security role with the Department of Homeland Security.

2. Coronavirus

The FDA's vaccine advisory board plans to meet today to discuss whether the Pfizer/BioNTech Covid-19 vaccine should be authorized for younger kids. Once the FDA makes its authorization, the issue goes to the CDC's vaccine advisory group, which is set to meet November 2 and 3. In Europe, countries are looking uneasily toward another pandemic winter. Europe is the only region in the world reporting an increase in Covid-19 cases right now. Vaccination rates vary widely there, from as low as 24% in some eastern areas to a 74.6% average among EU nations and an 85% rate in Belgium. Some Eastern European countries like Latvia and Romania are imposing new lockdowns, curfews and other measures. Moscow is also in the middle of a 10-day lockdown as Russia faces its worst pandemic phase ever.

3. Facebook

A series of news stories dubbed "The Facebook Papers" -- based on thousands of internal company documents -- reveals how the platform has been used to sow political discord and extremism across the world, facilitate human trafficking, push hate speech and misinformation, and organize events like the January 6 insurrection. The documents also reveal that Facebook leaders sometimes knew to some extent the damage being caused by users. The Facebook Papers represents another crisis for the social media giant, which is already under scrutiny from the Senate and some within the company's own ranks. It's being published by a consortium of 17 US news organizations, including CNN. The documents were included in disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen's legal counsel.

4. Russia & China

Russia and China recently joined forces for a naval exercise in which a flotilla of vessels nearly circled Japan's main island. The countries say the joint show of force was meant to ensure stability in a volatile region. However, Japan may not see it that way, and analysts say the demonstration might enhance claims by the Japanese government that the country needs to spend more to counter Chinese aggression. Russia and China have an ongoing military partnership and have conducted drills and other displays together for years. This exercise, however, was characterized by one Japanese official as "unusual" and comes at a time of rising tensions between China and Japan. China's recent aggression in the area, including its military pressure on nearby Taiwan, has put Japan on the defensive.

5. Supply chain

About $24 billion in goods is estimated to be sitting outside California's two biggest ports as the shipping backup there continues to put pressure on an already-brittle supply chain. This animated time lapse shows how ships have to circle and circle the ports, waiting to dock. The problem extends far beyond California, though. Goldman Sachs estimates that, nationwide, the time it takes loaded ships to make it through US ports has tripled from historical norms. Officials have warned that the supply chain crisis, which has led to massive price increases on consumer goods, could last through the first half of 2022. Meanwhile, the related worker shortage issue is hitting American companies hard. In a recent national survey, 47% of businesses reported a shortage of skilled workers in the third quarter.

BREAKFAST BROWSE

Japan's Princess Mako marries her non-royal college sweetheart, ending her time as a royal

"This is a life lived only once," her new husband said. "And I would like to spend my life with the person I love in happiness."

Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin wants to build a tourism space station nearly as big as the ISS

For when you really, REALLY wanna get away.

Megan Thee Stallion debuts her 'Hellraiser' Halloween costume

The time of amazing celebrity Halloween costumes is nigh!

Why some people get scared easily and others don't

Scaredy-cats unite! No horror movies for us!

1,000 Warhol artworks are on sale for just $250 each. But only one is real (and you'll never find out which is which)

Art experts are NOT pleased. But would Warhol hate it? Or would he be amused? Much to think about.

TODAY'S NUMBER

10,000

That's how many trees, including several iconic giant sequoias, need to be removed as firefighters battle California's KNP Complex Fire. The trees, which line the Generals Highway leading into Sequoia National Park, have been weakened by fire or other issues.

TODAY'S QUOTE

"We are walking holding worry in our hearts -- and worry sleeps in people's chests."

The chant of many demonstrators in Sudan, where the country's military has completed a coup by overtaking its power-sharing government and declared a state of emergency

TODAY'S WEATHER

Check your local forecast here>>>

AND FINALLY

The 'Wonder of Eggs'

Who doesn't want to listen to international treasure Sir David Attenborough talk about how cool swan eggs are for five minutes? (Click here to view.)

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
Facebook is no stranger to the limelight. While the company has repeatedly come under fire over the past few years for its role in disseminating misinformation, especially related to the 2016 election, the last two months have been especially turbulent as a whistleblower and top officials have been called to testify in front of Congress following the release of leaked internal research and documents.

These disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by Facebook whistleblower Frances Haugen's legal counsel have shed new light on the inner workings of the tech giant. A consortium of 17 US news organizations, including CNN, has reviewed the redacted versions of the documents received by Congress. She also shared some of the documents with the Wall Street Journal, which published a multi-part investigation showing that Facebook was aware of problems with its platforms.

Facebook has pushed back on Haugen's assertions, with CEO Mark Zuckerberg even issuing a 1,300-word statement suggesting that the documents are cherry picked to present a misleading narrative about the company.

Here are some key takeaways from the tens of thousands of pages of internal documents.

Spread of misinformation

In one SEC disclosure, Haugen alleges "Facebook misled investors and the public about its role perpetuating misinformation and violent extremism relating to the 2020 election and January 6th insurrection."

One of the documents details a June 2019 study called "Carol's Journey to QAnon," designed to see what pages and groups Facebook's algorithms would promote to an account designed to look like it was run by a 41-year-old conservative mom named Carol Smith. After "Carol" followed verified pages for conservative figures such as Fox News and Donald Trump, it took just two days for Facebook's algorithm to recommend she follow a QAnon page.

"While this was a study of one hypothetical user, it is a perfect example of research the company does to improve our systems and helped inform our decision to remove QAnon from the platform," a Facebook spokesperson told CNN.

Another document, entitled "Stop the Steal and Patriot Party: The Growth and Mitigation of an Adversarial Harmful Movement," presents an analysis conducted after January 6th suggesting Facebook could have done more to stop the spread of the "Stop the Steal" movement, which played a pivotal role in the Capitol riots.

And leaked comments from some Facebook employees on January 6 suggest the company might have had some culpability in what happened by not moving more quickly to halt the growth of Stop the Steal groups.

In response to these documents a Facebook spokesperson told CNN, "The responsibility for the violence that occurred on January 6 lies with those who attacked our Capitol and those who encouraged them."

Global lack of support

Internal Facebook documents and research shared as part of Haugen's disclosures highlight gaps in Facebook's ability to prevent hate speech and misinformation in countries such as Myanmar, Afghanistan, India, Ethiopia and much of the Middle East, where coverage of many local languages is inadequate.

Although Facebook's platforms support more than 100 different languages globally, a company spokesperson told CNN Business that its global content moderation teams are comprised of "15,000 people who review content in more than 70 languages working in more than 20 locations" around the world.

For example, in India, which represents Facebook's largest user base, Facebook for several years did not have hate speech classifiers for Hindi or Bengali, two of the country's most popular languages spoken collectively by more than 600 million people in India. In an internal presentation on anti-Muslim hate speech, Facebook researchers wrote, "Our lack of Hindi and Bengali classifiers means much of this content is never flagged or actioned."

A Facebook spokesperson told CNN the company added hate speech classifiers for "Hindi in 2018, Bengali in 2020 and Tamil and Urdu more recently."

In a statement on October 23 addressing reports concerning the leaked research, Miranda Sissons, Facebook's director of human rights policy, and Nicole Isaac, Facebook's international strategic response director, wrote, "We have an industry-leading process for reviewing and prioritizing countries with the highest risk of offline harm and violence, every six months. When we respond to a crisis, we deploy country-specific support as needed."

Human Trafficking

Facebook has known about human traffickers using its platforms since at least 2018, but has struggled to crack down on related content, company documents reviewed by CNN show.

According to one internal report from September 2019 2019 entitled a Facebook investigation found that "our platform enables all three stages of the human exploitation lifecycle (recruitment, facilitation, exploitation) via real-world networks. ... The traffickers, recruiters and facilitators from these 'agencies' used FB [Facebook] profiles, IG [Instagram] profiles, Pages, Messenger and WhatsApp."

Other documents chronicled how Facebook researchers had flagged and removed Instagram accounts purporting to offer domestic workers for sale, and outlined a variety of steps the company has taken to address the problem, including removing certain hashtags. However, CNN found several similar Instagram accounts still active last week advertising domestic workers for sale. After CNN asked Facebook about the accounts, a spokesperson confirmed they violated the company's policies. The accounts have since been removed and the posts deleted.

"We prohibit human exploitation in no uncertain terms," Facebook spokesperson Andy Stone said. "We've been combatting human trafficking on our platform for many years and our goal remains to prevent anyone who seeks to exploit others from having a home on our platform."

Inciting Violence Internationally

Internal documents indicate Facebook knew its existing strategies were insufficient to curb the spread of posts inciting violence in countries "at risk" of conflict, like Ethiopia.

Facebook relies on third-party fact-checking organizations to identify, review and rate potential misinformation on its platform using an internal Facebook tool, which surfaces content flagged as false or misleading through a combination of AI and human moderators.

Facebook ranks Ethiopia, where a civil war has raged for the past year, in its highest priority tier for countries at risk of conflict. However, an internal report distributed in March, entitled "Coordinated Social Harm," said that armed groups in Ethiopia were using Facebook to incite violence against ethnic minorities in the "context of civil war." And in a bold headline the report warned: "Current mitigation strategies are not enough."

This is not the first time concerns have been raised about Facebook's role in the promotion of violence and hate speech. After the United Nations criticized Facebook's role in the Myanmar crisis in 2018, the company acknowledged that it didn't do enough to prevent its platform being used to fuel bloodshed, and Zuckerberg promised to increase Facebook's moderation efforts.

In comments made to the consortium, Haugen said, "I genuinely think there's a lot of lives on the line -- that Myanmar and Ethiopia are like the opening chapter."

A Facebook spokesperson said the company had invested "$13 billion and have 40,000 people working on the safety and security on our platform, including 15,000 people who review content in more than 70 languages working in more than 20 locations all across the world to support our community. Our third party fact-checking program includes over 80 partners who review content in over 60 languages, and 70 of those fact checkers are outside of the US."

Impact on Teens

According to the documents, Facebook has actively worked to expand the size of its young adult audience even as internal research suggests its platforms, particularly Instagram, can have a negative effect on their mental health and well-being.

Although Facebook has previously acknowledged young adult engagement on the Facebook app was "low and regressing further," the company has taken steps to target that audience. In addition to a three-pronged strategy aimed at having young adults "choose Facebook as their preferred platform for connecting to the people and interests they care about," the company focused on a variety of strategies to "resonate and win with young people." These included "fundamental design & navigation changes to promote feeing close and entertained," as well as continuing research to "focus on youth well-being and integrity efforts."

However, Facebook's internal research, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, claims Facebook's platforms "make body image issues worse for 1 in 3 teen girls." Its research also found that "13.5% of teen girls on Instagram say the platform makes thoughts of 'Suicide and Self Injury' worse" and 17% say the platform, which Facebook owns, makes "Eating Issues" such as anorexia worse.

In a September 14 statement, Instagram's head of public policy, Karina Newton, said that they "stand by" the internal research, but argued that the Wall Street Journal "focuses on a limited set of findings and casts them in a negative light."

Algorithms fueling divisiveness

In 2018, Facebook pivoted its News Feed algorithm to focus on "meaningful social interactions." Internal company documents reviewed by CNN reveal Facebook discovered shortly afterwards that the change led to anger and divisiveness online.

A late 2018 analysis of 14 publishers on the social network, entitled "Does Facebook reward outrage," found that the more negative comments incited by a Facebook post, the more likely the link in the post was to get clicked.

"The mechanics of our platform are not neutral," one staffer wrote.

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
The ongoing pandemic has changed how many workplaces operate, but one constant remains: All employees want a nice work environment.

The Huntsville/Madison County Chamber hosted its Best Places to Work awards event, honoring businesses of all sizes and presenting awards during the luncheon. Businesses fit into one of five categories:

Best Places to Work 2021 Best Places to Work 2021

Micro businesses (10-24 employees);

Small business (25-50 employees);

Medium business (51-100 employees);

Large business (101-250 employees); or

X-Large business (251+ employees).

Each category had three winners: bronze, silver and gold. More than 70 businesses attended, and now 15 can return back to their place of employment with an award to show just how exemplary their workplace environment is.

It meant a lot to these businesses to be honored and rewarded for the hard work they're putting in and continuing to maintain a thriving work environment, especially in the midst of a pandemic.

"It's a very difficult market," said Steve Thornton, CEO of Monte Sano Research, which won bronze in the medium category. "Maybe there's somebody out there that thinks this looks easy. But most of us know that this is hard."

Hardly any business would say things have been easy throughout the pandemic, but Thornton has a keen sense on how to maneuver through these tough times.

"You have to be a discriminator, both in the type of work that you do and the quality of work that you do," Thornton said.

Thornton has been with Monte Sano Research for 10 years. He shared what he believes to be a successful work enivornment.

"The key to developing a good culture is to be an invisible conduit in between customers and employees," he said. "And provide for them the best environment the best resources and flexibility to advance themselves."

This is the second time Monte Sano Research has won an award, the first being in 2019.

"We are very humbled and very excited to be a part (of this event)," Thornton said. "This is an honor in the community, and it is also a very productive self-assessment for us as we continue to build the culture that inspires our employees."

When asked before the presentation if he expected to see his team on stage, accepting an award, he said, "No one ever really knows. Its a matter of the rising water floating all boats. You just dont know which boat youre in."

According to the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber, many of the companies honored during the event are hiring. For those seeking employment, visit here.

The following is a complete list of this year's winners, in order of gold, silver and bronze:

 Micro Category: Boecore Inc., Patriots International and Radial Solutions Inc.;

 Small Category: KODA Technologies Inc., Phased n Research Inc. and Crossflow Technologies Inc.;

 Medium Category: QTEC Aerospace, Canvas Inc. and Monte Sano Research Corporation;

 Large Category: Simulation Technologies Inc. (SimTech), Thompson Gray Inc. and Intrepid; and

 X-Large Category: IronMountain Solutions, PeopleTec Inc. and Modern Technology Solutions Inc. (MTSI).

"We are proud of all of our contenders and winners," said Chip Cherry, president and CEO of the Chamber. "These are exemplary companies who care about their team members and care about making their workplaces inviting and productive."

The Chamber said companies win based on results from employee surveys, which can then be used to improve the work environment at each company, something Cherry called "the hallmark of a world-class company."
The wait is over  The Cheesecake Factory is officially open in Huntsville!

Customers were lined up an hour before the grand opening, ready for their turn to try one of more than 250 made-from-scratch dishes, including 30 lower-calorie selections. The location opened 11 a.m. Tuesday at Bridge Street Town Centre in Huntsville.

Click through the gallery to see photos from the restaurant's big day.
The plea hearing for a Falkville man charged with participating in the Jan. 6 riot at the U.S. Capitol has once again been delayed.

Lonnie Coffman had been scheduled to appear at a hearing Tuesday to change his plea to guilty. But on Monday, that was rescheduled to Nov. 12.

No reason was given for the change.

Tuesday's hearing had been rescheduled from an original September date.

Coffman has remained in custody since his January arrest, when he was caught with several weapons in his truck in Washington, D.C.

Learn more about Coffman's arrest here.
Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey announced an executive order Monday related to Covid-19 vaccine mandates.



You can find a copy of it here.

Coronavirus vaccine vials Coronavirus vaccine vials

Ivey said she's issuing the executive order to "fight overreaching Covid-19 vaccine mandates."

Her statement said, in part, "I am adamantly opposed to federal mandates related to the Covid-19 vaccine and adamantly opposed to state mandates related to the Covid-19 vaccine, plain and simple. As long as I am your governor, the state of Alabama will not force anyone to take a Covid-19 vaccine."

This comes after President Joe Biden announced several vaccine-related requirements that would apply to as many as 100 million Americans. Currently, Alabama still has one of the lowest fully vaccinated rates in the country with 44%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

"Efforts to stop  I think a lot of people would encourage that, because most employers don't actually mandate their vaccinations voluntarily," said Cindy Doty, a senior human resources consultant with PassionHR. "It is just so, so complicated. Employers are just trying to figure out how to comply."

There are people on both sides. Some believe individuals should have the freedom to choose whether to get the vaccine, while others believe everyone should get it.

"If you are healthy, so to speak, and all that kind of stuff, then I think it should be up to your choice to get it or not," Huntsville resident Jake Barrett said. "I don't think you should be fired or lose your job over not getting it."

"Gov. Ivey's executive order doesn't change any of the deadlines that employers currently have," Doty said. "It just lets us know that she's going to fight it."

Ivey said the federal governments "outrageous overreach" has simply given her no other option but to begin taking action. This executive or der, she said, will be challenged in federal courts. Ivey believes Alabama will win the battle in court.
Whenever Oct. 31 falls on a Sunday, we get lots of calls and emails asking if people where they live will be Halloween trick-or-treating that day or Saturday.

This year, we reached out to 77 North Alabama cities and towns to see what they are telling their citizens: Saturday? Sunday? Whenever you want? BOTH?

Below is what we learned. If youre a city/town on the list with No Response and want us to update the list, email us at newsroom@waaytv.com. (And if youre a city/town we overlooked, email us about that, too!)

For all those who celebrate it (no matter the day): Happy Halloween!

Albertville: Personal preference

Anderson: Personal preference

Arab: Sunday

Ardmore: Sunday

Athens: Sunday

Boaz: Personal preference. The city will host its annual Monster Mash at the Mill at Old Mill Park from 3 to 6 p.m. Sunday

Bridgeport: Trunk or Treat on Saturday.

Cherokee: Trunk or Treat on Saturday

Collinsville: Trunk or Treat from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday on Main Street

Courtland: Personal preference

Crossville: Saturday

Cullman: Personal preference. Whatever you decide, we just ask that everyone be careful and have fun!

Decatur: The city of Decatur is leaving the holiday up to parents and events scheduled by community organizations.

Including:

October 28: Downtown Decatur Trick or Treat (5:30 p.m.  6:30 p.m.)  Sponsored by the 3rd Friday Downtown Decatur Organizers

October 31: Delano Park Halloween Event (2:00 p.m.  4:00 p.m.)  Carnegie Visual Arts / Decatur Public Library will provide activities for children. (Rain location: Fort Decatur)

Douglas: Personal preference, but most everyone I have spoken to (parents) is doing it Saturday night.

Dutton: Personal preference

Elkmont: Sunday

Eva: Personal preference

Falkville: Trunk or Treat from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday at Falkville Town Hall

Florence: Saturday

Fort Payne: Celebrations/events on both days

Fyffe: Personal preference, assumes most citizens will celebrate Saturday

Geraldine: Saturday. Community Trunk or Treat at Geraldine High School at 4 p.m.

Grant: Sunday

Guntersville: Personal preference

Gurley: Sunday. Trunk or Treat at Charles Stone Park from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Hammondville: Saturday from 5 to 7 p.m.

Hartselle: Personal preference

Henegar: Saturday

Hillsboro: Personal preference

Hodges: Personal preference

Hollywood: Saturday

Huntsville: Personal preference

Hytop: No response

Ider: Saturday

Killen: Personal preference

Langston: Saturday

Leighton: Personal preference, but church and fire department hosting events on Saturday

Lexington: Saturday

Littleville: Personal preference

Madison: Personal preference. Not telling residents when or how much candy to eat

Mentone: Personal preference

Mooresville: Sunday

Moulton: Personal preference

Muscle Shoals: Sunday, Muscle Shoals Police Department Trunk or Treat from 5 to 8 p.m.

New Hope: Personal preference

North Courtland: Personal preference

Owens Cross Roads: Encouraging Saturday, but not mandating it. Halloween Drive-thru Trick or Treating Extravaganza is 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at Owen Cross Roads City Hall, 9032 Hwy. 431 South

Paint Rock: Personal preference

Phil Campbell: Saturday

Pine Ridge: No response

Pisgah: Personal preference

Pleasant Groves: Friday

Powell: Personal preference. Fire Department handing out candy on Saturday

Priceville: Sunday

Rainsville: Sunday. UPDATE: Rainsville Spooktacular moved to Sunday from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Rainsville City Park.

Red Bay: Saturday

Rogersville: Sunday

Russellville: Sunday (Chamber of Commerce event on Saturday)

St. Florian: Saturday

Sardis City: Personal preference. Volunteer Fire Department giving out candy at 4 p.m. Saturday

Scottsboro: Saturday

Section: Sunday (Trunk or Treat in the Park 57 p.m.)

Sheffield: Sunday

Shiloh: Saturday (Trunk or Treat 4:30 p.m. at Town Hall)

Skyline: Personal preference

Somerville: Sunday

Stevenson: Sunday. Trunk or Treat on Main Street

Sylvania: Saturday

Town Creek: Personal preference

Triana: Personal preference

Trinity: Personal preference

Tuscumbia: Sunday

Union Grove: Saturday

Valley Head: Saturday (Halloween Drive-Thru Around The Square at 4 p.m.)

Vina: Saturday

Waterloo: Saturday

Woodville: Sunday
Decatur, IL (62521)

Today

Cloudy skies this morning will become partly cloudy this afternoon. High 53F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy skies with periods of light rain late. Low near 40F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
Decatur, IL (62521)

Today

Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy this afternoon. High 53F. Winds S at 10 to 15 mph..

Tonight

Cloudy with light rain developing after midnight. Low around 40F. Winds light and variable. Chance of rain 60%.
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Eitan Biran was sole survivor of horror cable crash in Italy.

A court in Tel Aviv has ruled that a six-year-old boy who was the sole survivor of a cable car crash in May must be returned to Italy after his maternal grandfather was accused of bringing him to Israel illegally last month.

Eitan Biran - whose parents, two-year-old brother and great-grandparents were among the 14 people killed in the accident near Lake Maggiore - had been placed in the custody of his paternal aunt Aya Biran and her family who live in Pavia, northern Italy.

However the boy became the subject of a bitter custody battle, with his mother's family insisting he should move to Israel despite having lived in Italy since he was a baby.

On 11 September the boy's maternal grandfather, Shmulik Peleg, who had moved to Italy after the tragedy, drove the boy over the border into Switzerland and took him on a private plane to Israel.

Peleg's actions prompted Italian police to launch a kidnapping investigation.

On Monday the Tel Aviv family court ruled that Eitan, who has Italian and Israeli passports, must be returned "to his usual place of residence in Italy.

The court ruled that the boy's relocation to Israel was unlawful and violated the guardianship rights of his aunt in Italy.

Eitan Biran was the sole survivor of a cable car crash in Italy in May.

Judge Iris Ilotovich-Segal stated: "It is of paramount importance to focus on the minors medical and emotional condition and give him the support, care and embrace he needs due to the tragedy that befell him and his family.Peleg, who was ordered to pay 70,000 shekels (19,000) in expenses and legal fees, has seven days to appeal the court's decision.

A statement on behalf of the Peleg family said: "The family is determined to continue to fight in all possible ways, for the good of Eitan, his well-being and his right to grow in Israel as his parents wished.

Photo ANSA/EPA
Rome's EUR district to become security 'red zone' for global summit this weekend.

Rome security chiefs will seal off a 10-square kilometre area of the capital's EUR district ahead of the Group of 20 Leaders' Summit taking place at the Nuvola Congress Centre on 30-31 October.

The two-day event, the culmination of a series of talks held during Italy's presidency of the G20, will see the heads of the world's wealthiest nations converge in Rome to discuss climate change, covid-19 and the post-pandemic global recovery.

The Rome summit is seen as critically important as it comes just before the United Nations COP26 climate change conference which begins in Glasgow on 31 October.

The government says the summit will take place under "maximum security", with a "red zone" around the Nuvola and the media centre at the nearby Palazzo dei Congressi, with the buildings connected by a shuttle service via a protected corridor.

No Green Pass and Fridays for Future have both pledged to organise demonstrations in Rome during the G20 summit whose focus under the Italian presidency is "three broad, interconnected pillars of action: People, Planet, Prosperity."

There are multiple road closures expected in EUR, starting from 29 October, with police snipers stationed on strategic rooftops in the area.

Rome's airspace will be monitored by the army and there will be maximum security around the Hotel Rome Cavalieri A Waldorf Astoria.

Which G20 leaders will be in Rome?

Italian premier Mario Draghi will welcome world leaders to Rome including US president Joe Biden, Canada's premier Justin Trudeau, UK prime minister Boris Johnson, French president Emmanuel Macron, outgoing German chancellor Angela Merkel, Indian prime minister Narendra Modi, Turkish president Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Australian prime minister Scott Morrison.

Also confirmed are King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia, president of Argentina Alberto Fernandez, South Korean president Moon Jae-in, South African president Cyril Ramaphosa, and Indonesian president Joko Widodo.

Brazil's president Jair Bolsonaro is also expected to be present in Rome but there is a question mark over the attendance of Chinese president Xi Jinping.

Russian president Vladimir Putin and Japanese premier Fumio Kishida will not be attending but will follow proceedings by video link, while Mexican president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador will send his foreign minister.

The president of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen and the European Council president Charles Michel will also attend the summit along with G20 guest nation Spain represented by prime minister Pedro Sanchez.

Some of the main international and regional organisations will be represented too along with the finance ministers of the G20 countries traditionally attend the Leaders' Summit.

For details see G20 website. Photo La Repubblica.
Covid vaccines to be extended to children in Italy as soon as regulatory authorities give the green light, says Sileri.

Italy is likely to start offering a third dose of the covid vaccine to the general population starting from January 2022, the country's deputy health minister Pierpaolo Sileri said on Tuesday.

Currently the third dose or "booster jab" is offered to the most vulnerable in society, such as cancer patients and transplant recipients, as well as the elderly and medical workers.

"The third dose will probably be necessary for everyone," Sileri told Radio Capital, adding that the vaccinations would be programmed based on when people received their last jab, with priority given to those who had the single-dose Johnson&Johnson vaccine.

"We will get rid of the mandatory Green Pass, but not now. We have to proceed step by step" - the health undersecretary said - "First we will remove the obligation of social distancing, then the masks and finally the Green Pass."

Sileri also said that covid vaccines would become available in Italy for children aged five to 11 as soon as the move is approved by regulatory authorities.

"I have a two-year-old son and if there were a vaccine available for his age I would give it to him immediately. Unfortunately, there isn't yet," Sileri said.

Italy's vaccination campaign

Just over 86 per cent of the Italian population above the age of 12 has had at least one dose of the covid vaccine, while 82 per cent are fully vaccinated, according to the latest data.

Last week Italian premier Mario Draghi said that Italy's vaccination campaign is moving faster than the EU average.

For official information about the covid-19 situation in Italy - in English - see the health ministry website. Details about the Green Pass can be found - in Italian - on the Certificazione Verde website.

Photo credit: MikeDotta / Shutterstock.com.
Fiumicino airport to Rome city centre could take just 15 minutes in air-taxi drone.

Getting from Rome's international Fiumicino airport into the centre of the Italian capital normally takes about 45 minutes in a taxi, depending on traffic.

This journey time could be cut to just 15 minutes within a couple of years under futuristic plans unveiled by Aeroporti di Roma (AdR) and Atlantia, the Italy-based global company which manages motorways and airports.

Thanks to a collaboration with German company Volocopter, an international leader in Urban Air Mobility (MAU), Italy is set to be among the first countries to use 'VoloCity' drones to transport people and goods.

Air travellers and Rome residents can see at first hand the electric sky taxi on display at Fiumicino airport from 27-30 October and again from 2-4 November at Piazza S. Silvestro in the city centre.

During the double event, organised with the support of Italy's civil aviation authority ENAC, onlookers will be able to get into the VoloCity, a two-seater air taxi designed to help decongest city centres and offer emission-free flights.

In Rome's case, the VoloCity will connect Fiumicino with multiple locations in the city via "vertiports" which facilitate the vertical take-off and landing of large-scale unmanned aircraft across populated areas.

The new battery-powered service, which promises to allow users to travel in "comfort and quality", is set to become a reality in Italy within "two-three years" according to a statement on the Atlantia website.

Atlantia, the main shareholder of Rome airport management company AdR, says the innovative mobility project has the support of the Italian authorities and regulators.
One might think that a historic supply-chain disruption would prod policy makers to take up this cause, but theres little sign of it. In this area, as in others, President Joe Biden has shown greater concern for union labor than for the wider public. His plan to get West Coast ports running 24/7, which he hailed as a potential game changer, was in fact a small-time pilot program that had nothing to do with technology; the ports involved simply agreed to pay more overtime. One provision in the infrastructure bill Congress is debating would offer $3.5 billion to invest in zero-emissions technology at ports. It specifically prohibits investment in automation. This is a head-scratcher: government throwing its weight behind antiquated procedures when the benefits of technological innovation are so plainly manifest across all of society  from vaccines to batteries to reusable rockets and beyond.
In the propagandistic upside-down world DeSantis inhabits, offering police irked by mandates $5,000 to relocate is good policy, but paying Florida residents $100 incentives to get vaccinated is bad policy. Arguing that mandates are bad for the economy is good policy, but allowing cruise ships to issue mandates that are good for their business and their passengers health is bad policy.Floridas governor is also not even serving law enforcement very well. Covid-19 was the leading cause of line-of-duty death for cops in 2020. Public officials concerned about the well-being of police should be doing everything in their power to ensure they get vaccinated, including supporting mandates. A dose of tough love toward police would also help when assessing their protests. In cities such as Chicago, police are outliers when it comes to accepting mandates. Most city workers in Chicago have complied with local mandates, raising interesting questions about what makes the police such a particularly resistant  and unrepresentative  cohort.In the end, DeSantis is comfortable having elastic definitions of reality and holding self-contradictory positions because rationality isnt his goal. Bemoaning the heavy hand of government and aligning himself with law enforcement is what hes after because it plays well to the electoral base he is courting.DeSantis has already tolerated an unnecessary and vicious surge in Covid-19 illnesses and deaths in Florida in the service of his ambitions, so theres no stopping him now. But his appetites and ruthlessness shouldnt be forgotten.
The first is public awareness. There is now an unprecedented acceptance of the dangers of climate change. In Britain, 95% of people think it is at least partly due to human activity. Of course, theres much less acceptance in segments of the U.S. And in the U.K. climate deniers have morphed into the new foot-draggers  many are in Johnsons own party. Even so, the countrys climate targets have wide bipartisan support.
Meanwhile, Facebook still faces intense antitrust and regulatory scrutiny. If lawmakers pass legislation that forces it to change its algorithm to a less engaging chronological feed  one option that has been floated  it would seriously crimp its business model. But given Congresss track record, the likelihood of serious reform enacted in a timely manner is low.That means that in the short term, the Federal Trade Commission is Facebooks primary regulatory threat. Along with the agencys antitrust lawsuit which it refiled two months ago that seeks to break up the company, the agency could investigate whether Facebooks ad-based business model rooted in collecting user data violates privacy laws. And at the very least, Facebook seems likely to dramatically raise its content moderation spending due to public pressure. While the company has repeatedly said it has spent more than $13 billion on safety and security over the last five years, that figure is just 4% of its sales in the time frame. It should do more. But even if Facebook spends billions of dollars more on moderators or faces some behavioral remedies from the FTC, much of the downside may be priced into its shares. After a decline in recent months, the companys shares now trade at roughly 20 times the fiscal 2022 earnings consensus. Analysts still expect the company to grow its sales at double-digit rates over the next two years. If accurate, it makes the current valuation attractive compared with big technology peers. Apple, for example, is valued at 26 times fiscal 2022 earnings, yet is only expected to grow its revenue by 3% next year.So, for investors, its hard to argue that they should abandon Facebook right now.
Still, you want to consider benefits on top of salary. What is the employer match on a 401(k) and when does it vest? In other words, when can you leave the job and take the money your employer contributed with you? Do you have access to purchase company stock or receive shares in company stock as compensation? How robust is the health insurance, and does it include vision and dental? Is there disability and/or life insurance coverage? How many paid vacation days do you receive (and how easily can you actually take them)?
Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, who seized power in Khartoum on Monday, seems to be under the impression that Donald Trump still lives in the White House and Benjamin Netanyahu on Balfour Street. The Sudanese general evidently is counting on the foreign-policy obsessions of the previous U.S. president and opportunism of the previous Israeli prime minister to let him get away with his coup. Its up to President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Naftali Bennett to let him know hes wrong.
The parallels with Trump are of style rather than substance. Zemmour doesnt share the Donalds obsessions with real estate or China. What he does have is a sense of declinism: Things were better before is a familiar refrain. Then theres his scapegoating and simplism: If only there were no immigrants and industrial jobs back onshore, the economy would prosper. His choice of language  rapists, assassins  to describe immigrants evokes Trump, too. As does the difficulty of the media to hold him to account  a paparazzi photo showing 63-year-old Zemmour in the arms of his 28-year-old adviser only served to humanize him.
Extremely. The court normally takes months to decide whether to hear an appeal and then allots several more for the parties to file their briefs. By contrast, the arguments Monday will take place only two weeks after the Justice Department asked the Supreme Court to intervene. The last case the court heard on such an expedited basis was Bush v. Gore, the ruling that resolved the 2000 presidential election deadlock. The court decided that case -- and sealed the election for Republican George W. Bush -- four days after Bush asked the justices to intervene. The court moved almost as quickly in the 1971 Pentagon Papers case, when it took only about a week to hear arguments and rule that the government couldnt stop the New York Times and Washington Post from publishing the governments secret history of the Vietnam War. And in 1974, the court took 45 days from start to finish to decide that then-President Richard Nixon had to turn over secret White House tape recordings, leading to his resignation.
After wondering aloud whether art museums were in fact serious about this, they gamely tossed out a few suggestions. What about a show that documents the growing poverty gap? Morgan asked. Another idea: She had recently seen a montage of all the faces of U.S. presidents (all male, all but one White): Why not have an exhibition showing what Congress looks like or the CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, she mused. Wouldnt that be a powerful exhibit?
The United States has more immigrants than any other nation  about 45 million, or nearly 14 percent of the population, according to the Pew Research Center. If you or your parents are not among them, chances are you dont have to look far back on your family tree to discover which of your ancestors made the daring decision to leave their homeland and start a new life here.
We have an example from Letitia James in the [Gov. Andrew] Cuomo case, where, even though she was the same party as Cuomo, she called for an independent investigation. I read the report. It was very clear what she did, who she talked to  people on both sides of the issue  how she weighed the evidence, what her conclusion was, and then there was an outcome. And ultimately a sense of accountability. And after that happened, rather than this long public discussion about who was right or who was wrong or whether this was all political, the conversation tamped down to the facts. Thats what we want. And thats where we want our government to lead us. Thats hard work. And it takes time. But I think weve got to demand that our leadership make those commitments to get started on it. And accountability has to come from the top.
Per their agreement with Haugen, reporters from such outlets such as The Washington Post, New York Times, CNN and the Associated Press were free to report on anything contained in the documents. One stipulation was that they couldnt publish their stories until Monday  an embargo designed to give every outlet an equal shot at the news, and one designed to amplify the news itself by breaking it simultaneously.
The shell was about 1/4-of-an-inch thick and solid calcium, hard enough to resist the jaws of jackals and hyenas, wrote Richard, who lives in Arlington. After this marvel of nature was examined, I was allowed to go on my way, with the egg. I suspect that the experience might have contributed to a conversation along the lines of, You wont believe what I found in a bag today. 
Officials did not elaborate on the reason for the change, but Sheriff Beth Arthur said in a statement that her office is committed to providing the highest level of medical services to those in our custody and that she takes each individuals care very seriously.
This season is going to be very much like last season. Harvest should be strong, Judy said. Covid had impacts on last seasons harvest, both in terms of demand, availability, the ability to eat out and also the price. Obviously, were hoping this year is much better because restaurants are open, people are going out again and were looking forward to a better situation than last year.
Although Chuang  over the objection of defense lawyers  agreed that a terrorism enhancement, allowed by federal law, could be applied in this case, he seemed skeptical of the 25-year terms recommended by the U.S. attorneys office in Maryland. That would be a significant increase over typical sentences for the crimes to which Mathews and Lemley pleaded guilty in June.
Police said one recent killing was the result of a domestic dispute and another an argument between neighbors in an apartment building. On Saturday, a 52-year-old woman was killed in a hail of 58 bullets fired outside the Mayfair Mansions apartments, where she lived in Northeast Washington. Police said they do not believe that woman, Angela White-Hooks, was the intended target.
She had a boy who had just graduated from college and got married, one who was working in D.C. and one who planned to head off to college next fall. She posted positive messages to friends specific to their travails. And a yummy caramel apple recipe she wanted to make for Halloween.
At the time, about half of Virginia school districts already followed that practice, but the bill would have enshrined that in state law. The Beloved bill, as it was known, would have made Virginia the first state in the nation to give parents that opt-out power. McAuliffe vetoed it as well as a similar bill in 2017.
The importance of a call between the leaders became clear after a number of meetings at the sub-leader level that were not constructive, said a second senior administration official. There was unanimity in the administration at this point that we were not getting anywhere in the bilateral relationship at that level and we were concerned that Beijing was not being responsible in its management of the competition.
There is palpable concern within NATO about stoking conflict with Russia. While the alliance has pledged to ready itself for possible multi-front attacks from Moscow, there is a reluctance in some corners to stir the pot  especially when it comes to Ukraines and Georgias NATO, which are actively embroiled in territorial disputes involving Russia. France and Germany, in particular, have expressed skepticism about their inclusion, even as the two countries committed troops to the Afghanistan war effort, engaged in domestic reform efforts and took steps to make their defense systems more interoperable with the alliance.
The state is still flooded in some places, damp in many others. Almost half the state remains in exceptional drought, according to NOAA. The forecast? Sun as far as the eye can see in the south and in the Sierra, and a mix of light rain and sun in the north. The wait is on here for more.
Are we going to spend the time apprehending and removing the farmworker who is breaking his or her back to pick fruit that we all put on our tables? Mayorkas told The Post in a September interview. Because if we pursue that individual, we will not be spending those same resources on somebody who does, in fact, threaten our safety. And that is what this is about.
Israeli boy will return to Italy: An Israeli court Monday ordered a 6-year-old boy who survived a cable car crash in Italy to be returned to his relatives there, who have been locked in a bitter custody battle with family members in Israel. The court ordered Eitan Biran returned to "the place of his normal residence, which is Italy." It ordered his grandfather, who had brought him to Israel against the wishes of his family members in Italy, to pay around $20,000 in expenses and attorney fees.
With the kidnapping of 17 missionaries near Port-au-Prince, The Posts editorial board turned to a familiar routine of using the jeopardy of citizens of developed Western nations to call for intervention in the Global South. Recounting previous U.S. military occupations in Haiti, 1915 to 1934 and 1994 to 1996, as well as a 13-year U.N. stabilization force, the board seems unable or unwilling to make an essential connection. Continuous outside intervention by the United States, European nations and the United Nations has handicapped the Haitian people, not rescued them nor allowed them to chart their own course.
It is not certain the idea will survive the next few days  or even hours  in the rush to hammer out the final outlines of a deal. But even if it falls by the wayside, Democratic leaders interest reflects a willingness in the party to take on the wealthy that is an echo of Warrens message.
The chalkboard on an interactive Remembrance Wall at Union Station, where survivors and relatives of traffic crash victims post memories of their loved ones. (Bill OLeary/The Post)

The District has recorded as many traffic fatalities by mid-November as occurred in all of 2020.
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U.S. troops in neighboring Iraq have come under frequent rocket attacks over the past four years, and at least three similar attacks involving drones have been reported in the past year. The United States has retaliated with airstrikes against Iranian-allied militias in both Syria and Iraq, most recently in February, and it might respond to this one, too, Kirby said.
Erin Buckles is the oncology patient navigator with Witham Health Services. She helps patients navigate obstacles to treatment and deals with all patients who have received a diagnosis of breast cancer at Witham.
MARY RUTH WAGLER  The funeral for Mary Ruth Wagler was held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 13, 2021, at First Mennonite Church, with Chris Raber, Gaylon Sommers and David Lee Stoll officiating. Burial was in the church cemetery.
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Chinese authorities told billionaire Hui Ka Yan to use his personal wealth to alleviate China Evergrande Groups deepening debt crisis, according to people familiar with the matter.

Beijings directive to the Evergrande founder came after his company missed an initial September 23 deadline for a coupon payment on a dollar bond, said the people, asking not to be identified discussing a private matter. Local governments across China are monitoring Evergrandes bank accounts to ensure company cash is used to complete unfinished housing projects and not diverted to pay creditors, the people said.

Evergrandes Hui Ka Yan was once Chinas richest man. Credit:Bloomberg

The demand that Hui tap his own fortune to pay Evergrandes debt adds to signs that Beijing is reluctant to orchestrate a government rescue, even as the property giants crisis spreads to other developers and sours sentiment in the real estate market. Chinese President Xi Jinping has been cracking down on the billionaire class as part of his common prosperity campaign to reduce the countrys yawning wealth gap.

Its unclear whether Huis fortune is big and liquid enough to make a sizeable dent in Evergrandes liabilities, which swelled to more than $US300 billion ($400 billion) as of June. The developers dollar bonds are trading at deep discounts to par value as investors brace for what could be one of Chinas largest-ever debt restructurings.
When these facts came to light, it was inevitable that Crown Melbourne would be found unsuitable to hold its casino licence. But the former Federal Court judge did not call for Crowns licence to be cancelled, after considering the extensive reform process underway at Crown as well as the considerable harm cancellation would inflict on the Victorian economy and innocent third parties. Crown contributed around 1 per cent of Victorias state tax revenue before COVID-19. It employs about 11,500 people in Melbourne. The royal commission report recommended that James Packer, who owns 37 per cent of Crown, should have to sell down his stake to under 5 per cent by 2024. Credit:Getty Images Victorias Gaming Minister Melissa Horne said on Tuesday the government supported all 33 of the reports recommendations in principle, subject to consideration and consultation. She said that Stephen OBryan, the first commissioner of the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission (IBAC), would be Crowns special manager.

Mr OBryan will have access to all areas of the casino and be able to veto board decisions. If he is not satisfied Crown is fit to hold its licence after two years, it will be cancelled. Premier Daniel Andrews said in question time on Tuesday that Crown was more than on notice. Their licence will be terminated, and it will terminate in two years time, unless and until they can demonstrate that they are fit and proper to hold such a licence, he said. Victoria would also ban the junket tour operators Crown worked with, who were shown to have extensive links to organised crime. The maximum penalty for Crown, if it breached gambling laws, would also be increased from $1 million to $100 million, Ms Horne said. The Alliance for Gambling Reform said the Finkelstein report recommended positive first steps to tackling gambling harm at Crown, but it missed crucial problems, such as the casinos 1000 unrestricted poker machines  which operate without any maximum bet limit  and its loyalty schemes.

The government should act on these issues after ripping up the controversial licence clause that entitles Crown to up to $200 million compensation for any changes the government imposes on its operation, said the alliances lead Victorian campaigner, Rose OLeary. We welcome the commitment today from the gambling minister to do so with legislation, Ms OLeary said. Most vitally, we need to ensure that all consultation on proposed changes to the law include those with lived experience of gambling harm at the table. Crowns chief executive Steve McCann, who joined the company in July amid a clean-out of its board and senior management, said Tuesdays findings provided a way forward. We are embracing the challenges ahead of us as we work to restore our reputation, and we are determined to get this right. We will be a better Crown, he said in a statement. United Workers Union casinos director Dario Mujkic said the unions members would breathe a sigh of relief to now have some job certainty for the next two years.

It is clear that Crowns conduct as outlined in the report was unacceptable and the union welcomes the recommendations outlined by the commissioner, which seek to balance suitability and integrity with the impact an immediate licence cancellation would have had on staff and others, Mr Mujkic said. Culprit lives to see another day The Victorian Oppositions gambling spokeswoman Steph Ryan welcomed the commissions findings, but said its terms of reference were too narrow and should have included Crowns relationship with the government and the failings of the states gambling regulator. You have to ask how [the government] could be so incredibly blind to the conduct that the commission has uncovered in this report. Weve been hearing this for years, Ms Ryan said. The Andrews government called the royal commission after an independent inquiry in NSW found in February that Crown was unfit to hold the licence for its new Sydney casino in light of evidence it had been infiltrated by organised crime.

Victorian Greens leader Samantha Ratnam said the outcome showed Crown was too big to fail. She called on the government to halve its number of poker machines, and implement stronger harm-minimisation measures and fairer taxes. This is the biggest scandal in Victorias corporate history, and yet its culprit is living to see another day, Ms Ratnam said. Pokies limits, cash ban Crown will need to make significant changes to the way it operates its gaming floors to minimise the harm it causes problem gamblers. Commissioner Finkelstein recommended that anyone playing a poker machine at the casino should be made to set a daily, weekly or monthly time-and-loss limit before they start gambling. Poker machine players would also be forced to take a 15-minute break from gambling every three hours and would be banned from playing for more than 12 hours in any 24-hour period, with a maximum play time of 36 hours in any week.

All patrons would have to use a Crown identity card that tracked their gambling at the casino. Cash transactions would be limited to $1000, to make it harder for criminals to launder the proceeds of crime at the casino. Commissioner Finkelstein wrote that the way Crown dealt with people with gambling addiction was perhaps the most damning discovery by the commission. Crown Melbourne had for years held itself out as having a worlds best approach to problem gambling. Nothing can be further from the truth, he wrote. The royal commission revealed Crown Melbournes cavalier approach to gambling addiction, allowing patrons to gamble for 18 hours straight and employing a tiny responsible gambling team to monitor its 2628 poker machines and 540 table games.

The inquiry also heard how Crown illegally accepted credit card payments in exchange for chips through its hotel desk, in a fraud designed to enable Chinese patrons to get around Chinas tight capital controls. And it was also revealed that Crown underpaid tax on its poker machine winnings to the Victorian government by making illegal deductions, potentially short-changing the state by up to $272 million. Loading The NSW government suspended Crowns licence for its new Sydney casino in late 2020 after an independent inquiry there found the group enabled money laundering at its Melbourne and Perth casinos and had gone into business with figures linked to organised crime. The NSW inquiry and subsequent royal commissions in Victoria and WA, which is still underway, were triggered by a series of reports by The Age, Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes in 2019.
Some patients, including Jackie M, who had liposuction of the neck, said the reason they chose the Lanzer clinic was because of the media hype. I scoured Google reviews, looking for something negative and there were glowing reviews, and now, when I look back at it, those reviews dont make sense, Jackie said. Former patient Jackie. Credit:Eddie Jim Another patient, Brianna, had liposuction at Dr Lanzers Sydney clinic in 2018 and was horrified by the facility and the procedure. There were blood and chunks of skin, bits of me all over the floor. When I sat up, liquid arched out of me. Squirted out. There were chunks of fat everywhere, she said. Brianna described the clinic as like a sweatshop and said she was surprised given the many positive reviews online.

When you Google it, hes the person that comes up as having a lot of experience and expertise. I thought that I was carefully selecting someone reputable. However, there is evidence that some of those reviews could be misleading. At least five nurses who work for Dr Lanzers clinics have posted glowing five-star Google reviews without declaring they are employees, the investigation has been told. There is also evidence that some staff were offered financial incentives to encourage patients to submit positive reviews. Communications from Dr Lanzer to staff earlier this year include an offer of a payment of $30 for each review you get on Melbourne Google reviews next 7 days. The message said, Just let me know who did it. Can be anywhere in Australia on Melbourne site.

In a recent court judgment related to an injunction over this story, Justice John Nicholas said documents provided by the ABC included a video recording of what I was informed are images of Dr Lanzer explaining to [then staff member Justin Nixon] how to modify Google reviews. Former staffer Justin Nixon. Credit:Joe Armao Patient Mark Corbett said he wrote a scathing Google review in February 2020 after a horrifying facelift 18 months earlier, which he says scarred him on the side of his face. In his original review, Mr Corbett said Dr Lanzer deserved zero stars. The review said he was left with scarring on both sides of his face which looked like Dr Lanzer had used a kitchen knife. Horrifying to say the least and bleeding  not what I would call a bloodless procedure, he wrote.

[Dr Lanzer] walked away and complained about the amount of blood. I was still getting blood out of my ears days later. That review is no longer publicly available. In its place is a five-star review from Mark Corbett which reads: Its been a great result with Dr Lanzer his caring approach to the issues & hands on care and amazing after-care! I can highly recommend Dr Lanzer. Mr Corbett said shortly after posting the review, Dr Lanzer called him and asked how much he wanted to change it.

I said flippantly a thousand bucks and he offered to fix it himself but theres no way I wanted him to touch me again, he said. Mr Corbett said $1000 was lodged into his bank account after changing the review to a five-star rating. Mr Corbett retains a copy of the receipt of money deposited into his account around the time the review changed. I do sometimes think about whether I should have amended the review because he really shouldnt be practising, he said.

Former competition tsar Allan Fels said deceptive and misleading conduct was a breach of the Australian Consumer Law and carried a maximum fine of $10 million per offence. If a business aided and abetted or knowingly participated in misleading and deceptive conduct it is liable, he said. Loading The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said businesses cannot mislead or deceive customers regarding goods and services. The ACCC is aware of various ways in which businesses may manipulate online reviews to mislead or deceive consumers, it said in a statement. For example, a business may post fake positive reviews about their goods or services, or offer incentives to consumers to post positive reviews or remove negative reviews. Businesses may also post fake negative reviews about their competitors. It said it had acted against a number of businesses for misleading customers by manipulating reviews on their websites or third-party platforms.
At Oxford he met Sphere co-founder Tomas Halgas, a student of computer science, and the pair began brainstorming what problems humans could solve. There was all this human potential on the internet, says DAloisio. How do you get people to exchange ideas and knowledge in a way they do not do currently? Nick DAloisio was just 15 when he secured venture capital funding from the Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing for Summly. Credit:Bloomberg The idea was pegged as a more advanced version of Quora, where users could have their questions answered by experts who would receive micropayments in exchange. It secured 500,000 downloads but didnt quite work out as hoped. The unit economics were quite tenuous, admits DAloisio. Still, it gained backing from some of the biggest names - and founders - in tech, including Airbnbs Brian Chesky and Tinders Sean Rad.

But in 2019, DAloisio and Halgas moved on and Sphere switched to building a new kind of social network. He argues that most modern group chat apps, such as WhatsApp, originally offered just a one-to-one conversation. There was scope to do something new. No one had really thought about it from scratch, DAloisio explains. What is a group chat that works so more than a few people can speak? Other group messengers have kind of emerged by accident. I got obsessed with the problem of consciousness and how we have experiences. Almost taking a computational view of the mind, it doesnt cut it, it doesnt get you to consciousness. I think the role of the human is so important. Nick DAloisio Spheres app, which only ever launched in a closed test before being bought by Twitters Jack Dorsey, split users into group chats, each featuring a Twitter-like feed. That feed could prioritise certain key posts, such as polls or calendar invites, while clearing out dead chats. And, similar to Slack, users could comment or send emojis on different posts.

One of the problems DAloisio and his team hoped to solve was how to make chats less divisive - perhaps stemming from his philosophy degree, and a problem Spheres new parent company Twitter has struggled with. We arrived at the issue of trying to make online discourse healthy, he says. We tried a lot of different things, ephemeral [disappearing] chats, how you define reading a message, emotional responses, lots of features. The vision was to replicate the physical world in online conversation. Nick DAloisio aged 16 in 2013., the year Summly was bought by Yahoo. Credit:AP He declines to detail how this will play out at Twitter, citing confidentiality. But he has come along at the right time: digital interaction is clearly the issue of the moment, with ongoing debates over how online abuse and anonymous trolling plague social media. DAloisios original app, Summly, also came along at the right time and received positive reviews - it created bite-size news digests collected from various outlets, and was downloaded around 1 million times amid a flurry of early offerings for Apples iPhones.

After securing venture capital funding from the Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing, Summly was snapped up by Yahoo in 2013. It marked a bid by the almost two decade old internet giant which was struggling under chief executive Marissa Mayer, to appeal to younger users and take on Googles dominance. Summly suffered under new ownership. Relaunched as Yahoo! News Digest it had some initial success - winning an Apple Design Award and netting 9.5 million downloads - but, like many Yahoo products, was shut down in 2017. Yahoo was acquired by Verizon that year, leading to closures and thousands of redundancies. Luckily for DAloisio, he left two years prior, to take up his place at Oxford. If it was a disappointing way for the app to end, DAloisio doesnt let on. For me there was still a legacy with Summly, he says, there are many news products that followed that model. I was very happy with the work I did both at Yahoo and Summly. Certainly, there seems to be a market for news in brief - newsletters such as Axios and Googles News Showcase have since launched. Now, history has repeated itself - Sphere has said it will shut down. Whether some of it survives is now up to Dorseys team.

Whether it would have been a breakout hit is unknown. Some in Britains tech sector suggest the deal represents an acquihire - taking on talent rather than necessarily the product itself. Loading That said, two buyouts to two of the worlds biggest technology companies is not to be sniffed at. DAloisio says the UK has improved dramatically at fostering tech entrepreneurship compared to when he was a teenage developer. I now have friends who I have known for a long time who are in entrepreneurship. Ten years ago none of my friends dreamt of doing tech. And the bug hasnt left him yet. While Twitter is now home, DAloisio wont rule out another start-up in the very long term.
Moulin Rouge! The Musical will hold its long-awaited Australian opening night on November 12.

Melbourne will be the second city in the world to stage the musical that wowed Broadway and swept the Tony Awards, pipping Londons West End curtain-raiser by just hours.

The city can also claim the title of the globes biggest production of the musical adapted from the Baz Luhrmann film, with designers confirming that the Regent Theatre stage is larger than those in the other two capital cities to host the show.

Alinta Chidzey (Satine), Des Flanagan (Christian) in Moulin Rouge! The Musical! Credit:Michelle Grace Hunder

To be able to finally say that we are opening the show actually makes me quite emotional, said Alinta Chidzey, who stars as Satine. The energy we all feel on stage as we rehearse this spectacular is like nothing Ive experienced before. The show is a true feast for the senses and exactly what Melbourne needs right now to lift our lockdown spirits.
London: Australias new formal pledge to cut emissions to net zero by 2050 is heroic and should be applauded, Boris Johnson has said, while also warning next weeks Glasgow climate talks are at risk of failure.

In remarks that will buoy Prime Minister Scott Morrison following a messy fortnight of horsetrading with junior Coalition partner the Nationals over the new policy, the British Prime Minister singled out political events in Canberra as a sign world leaders were beginning to take climate change seriously.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at Downing Street earlier this year. Credit:AP

I do think that world leaders are really starting to listen and see how urgent this is and what an emergency this is, Johnson told an audience of schoolchildren at Downing Street.

[The Coalitions new net zero by 2050 policy] was actually very difficult for Australia to do ... because Australia is very heavily dependent on coal and on lots of carbon-producing industries.
Governor Andy Beshear said the closure was recommended by Kentucky State Police and other security experts, like the FBI.
LMPD cancels alert for teen that went missing Monday in the Shawnee neighborhood
Reporter

I cover a range of stories for WDRB, but really enjoy tracking what's going on at our State Capitol. I grew up on military bases all over the world, but am a Kentuckian at heart. I'm an EKU alum, and have lived in Louisville for 30 years.
A head-on crash involving a semi and a blue pickup happened around 10 a.m. on Paul Garrett Avenue in Jeffersonville, Indiana. Oct. 26, 2021
FILE - This Sept. 27, 2011, file photo, shows a gopher frog at the Audubon Zoo in New Orleans. The Biden administration is canceling two environmental rollbacks under former President Donald Trump that limited habitat protections for imperiled plants and wildlife. The dusky gopher frog survives in just a few ponds in Mississippi. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert, File)
Retired U.S. Army Sgt. First Class Dana Bowman parachuted from a helicopter, bringing with him a large American flag as he landed on the Weatherford Christian School field Tuesday, Nov. 9 for a special ceremony in honor of Veterans Day.
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Donors 'drive-thru' Pybus Market for Make a Difference Day

bonnicksen / World photo/Mike Bonnicksen Itzel Iniquez, at right, watches as her sisters Adamarie, 11, second from right and Analee, 7 get a lesson in how to do CPR from American Red Cross employee Hannah Christen. They were at Pybus Public Market for Wenatchee Valleys 31st Make a Difference Day on Saturday. bonnicksen / World photo/Mike Bonnicksen Barbara Gundersen of Wenatchee cuts out patterns for menstrual pads as she waits for material donations for the Days for Girls program during Wenatchee Valleys 31st Make a Difference Day on Saturday. The Days for Girls program produces kits with washable pads, for menstruating girls in countries around the world.

WENATCHEE  Surrounded by a CPR mannequin and a half dozen tiny ambulances, Hannah Christen taught short CPR classes Saturday to interested passersby at Pybus Public Market.

Christen, a disaster program manager with the American Red Cross, hosted an info booth where she taught community-based CPR, specifically chest compressions, for Make a Difference Day.

The compressions are really easy to remember, and the locations of them, Christen said. And the idea is anyone can learn hands-only.

She explained that about 70% of cardiac arrests occur at home.

So having someone in your household whos able to do hands-only CPR or full-blown CPR is critical to being able to save the life of someone that has a cardiac event, Christen said.

By 11:30 a.m., Christen taught chest compressions to 32 people. She started at 9.

Its good to get out in the community and teach people, and especially kids, how to do it, Christen said. She noted the micro-sized ambulances were used by students to practice chest compressions.

Pybus played host to a drive-thru donation drop-off point and information booths at the 31st annual Make a Difference Day.

The drive-thru model is a carryover from 2020 when organizers modified their original plan of receiving donations inside the market to comply with COVID-19 restrictions, said Jessica Mayo, Pybus artisan and foundation development manager.

We definitely always want to provide space for them and if we can be helpful in any way thats awesome, Mayo said of the volunteer groups.

Donations were accepted from 9 to 1 p.m. and in some instances bolstered by the bustling Wenatchee Valley Farmers Market outside Pybus and the indoor Pybus Artisan Market.

Its going really well, Mayo said. Weve had a pretty steady stream of donations and people who were here for the farmers market came over and checked it out and a couple of people went home and got donations and brought them back.

Jen Thomason with the state Department of Children, Youth and Families volunteered along with Carissa Stone to help recruit foster parents and accept donations.

Were in great need of diverse foster families, Thomason said.

She added Stone was specifically recruiting for LGBTQ+ children and kids with disabilities. Finding foster parents for them can be a challenge.

Its really hard, especially for certain populations, Thomason said, like LGBTQ+. Some families wont accept those kids, so we need to find homes that are accepting of these kids.

How to help If interested in becoming a foster parent, contact Carissa Stone, targeted recruitment specialists with the state Department of Children, Youth & Families, at (509) 828-3019. To donate to the Hope Chest, contact Jen Thomason at jennifer.thomason@dcyf.wa.gov or (509) 679-2405.

Sometimes children are removed from their parents care because of a safety issue and then placed into foster care, she said, but the goal is to ultimately reunite the family.

So if the issue is addiction or mental health, the department works really hard to try to help the parents rectify their parental deficiencies so the kids can go home, Thomason said.

Provided photo/Jen Thomason Dave and Heidi Riker on Saturday donated at least a dozen pairs of new shoes to The Hope Chest, a non-profit group that collects clothes for foster children.

Thomason manages also The Hope Chest, a local clothing closet operated by volunteers, that benefits kids in foster care. On Saturday, they asked for the donation of new shoes.

What weve noticed is that the kids shoes that people bring in are usually pretty worn because kids are hard on shoes so we decided this year our project would be to collect new shoes for kids in foster care, Thomason said.

At an adjacent table, members of Wenatchee Pride collected winter clothing for SAGE, a non-profit that provides services to victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, general crime, and child victims of violence.

Oftentimes, shelters, thats kind of the thing they need the most when it comes to snow time is snow-specific gear, said Ashley Peterson, Wenatchee Prides volunteer coordinator.

In addition to clothes, Wenatchee Pride accepted monetary donations for SAGE via cash or PayPal.

Were matching that up to $1,000 with the goal to get $2,000 to SAGE, Peterson said.
EL ESTOR, Guatemala (AP)  Police and soldiers frisked people at checkpoints and a tense calm reigned in the streets of this lakeside town Monday after protests against a mining project erupted into violence over the weekend.

Guatemalas government imposed martial law and a dusk to dawn curfew Sunday and filled the town of 20,000 residents with security forces. Teams carried out searches at homes and offices looking for protest leaders, while those targets went into hiding.

The police were ostensibly there to make sure protesters do not block trucks from entering and leaving a nickel processing plant, which shares the site with the disputed mine. Protesters contend the operation pollutes Lake Izabal.

The Fenix mine, owned by Guatemala Nickel Co., a subsidiary of Switzerlands Solway Investment Group, is under a court order to carry out a public consultation process in the community about the project.

In a statement Sunday, Solway said that it was fully complying with the court-ordered consultation on the Fenix mine and noted that the nickel processing plant on the site is not subject to the court order.

The Guatemalan government said in a statement that the processing plant and the companys other mining rights in the area are not affected by the court order.

A pre-consultation process for the Fenix mine began a month ago and the exclusion of a group of local fishermen and Indigenous Qeqchi from the discussion by Guatemalas Energy and Mines Ministry appeared to have sparked the protest.

Astrid Franco, the local delegate of Guatemalas Human Rights Ombudsman, said a case had been opened over the groups complaints.

Yesterday, the government offered the protesting communal leaders a dialogue, Franco said. What they want is to participate in the consultation, the how and when theyre going to do the consultation.

Prosecutors announced the first two arrests under martial law Sunday, allegedly for drug and weapons possession. The suspension of basic rights and searches carried out put the Indigenous town on the shores of Lake Izabal on edge.

Protest leaders laid low and refused to meet for interviews, afraid authorities would find them. Average citizens were stopped, questioned and frisked by authorities.

Protesters had been blocking highways for days, keeping trucks from reaching the site. Some threw rocks and police responded with tear gas to clear the road Saturday. On Monday, the trucks moved in and out unimpeded.

Daniel Mac, a 22-year-old farmer, complained that the mine was polluting the area. The roofs are rusted, the dust is corrosive and the fish die in the lake.

But Emilio Jalal Tzoc, 67, a local fisherman and former worker at the mine, said that the company doesnt affect us, it helps the people.

He said the money workers earned at the mine circulated throughout the community. Those behind (the protests) arent from here, he said.

According to the World Bank, poverty grew to 47% from 45.6% in Guatemala in 2020. It said the country had the fourth highest rate of chronic malnutrition in the world and the highest in Latin America and the Caribbean. Indigenous and rural populations are especially affected.
WASHINGTON  Want to discover the planet Pluto in the same way it was originally discovered?

Through a grant made possible from an online platform called Slooh, students from local schools in grade 4 to the university level can do just that, and much more  for free.

The grant, called the Slooh Exploration Grant, is being provided with the goal of helping 1 million students nationwide experience space from their classroom and home computers, using robotic telescopes.

The platform allows students to put themselves in the shoes of Clyde Tombaugh, who discovered pluto in 1930, said Washington resident Michael Paolucci, 51, Sloohs CEO and founder.

They follow in his footsteps, making exactly the steps Clyde used with a very similar type of telescope, he said. They actually see Pluto suddenly appear on their screen and then they get to keep that image, which fits in a poster.

What is Slooh?

Slooh, which was created in 2003 and is based out of Washington Depot, offers live online telescope feeds of astronomical events.

Students use robotic telescopes to view space phenomena, capture observational data and engage in gamified learning, Paolucci said.

To date, the program has reached tens of millions of people, Paolucci said.

The big benefit is that these students get to control telescopes halfway around the world, collect real data from space, make their own imagery and then they get to manipulate that imagery, he said. They get to complete all of these learning activities, which are all built into the platform that teaches you how to explore space.

Teachers receive extensive training by Sloohs astronomy team to be able to teach up to 40 students.

Students get their own individual Slooh accounts. They can advance in ability levels through a point system. There are different levels of difficulty that students can progress through, receiving points and a badge upon their completion.

The telescopes, which Slooh owns and operates, are completely autonomous robotic observatories. They operate all night. They move every five minutes. It is all robotically controlled and remotely serviced, Paolucci said.

The grant

A teacher from each accredited public school in the US is eligible to receive the rolling grant.

Aside from receiving training to teach their class, grant winners receive a Teacher Champion pack with an anthology of space book, night watch cap, bracelet, and badge, said John Boisvert, director of curriculum at Slooh. Teacher and student accounts have access to Slooh's 10 powerful robotic telescopes at observatories in both hemispheres, the 50 STEAM-aligned Quest learning activities, and a private club to monitor student progress and share observations. All of this is valued at over $750.

Initially, Slooh was intended for underprivileged populations.

Its designed for inner-city Title 1 schools  for populations where the kids have no ability to get out of the city, so they never see the stars, Paolucci said.

With the new grant, however, teachers from schools across the state can get access to Slooh for free.

Paolucci said hes offering this opportunity to local teachers as a measure of goodwill.

We want every school in the area, every teacher to know that if they apply for this grant, they will get it, Paolucci said.

He said he sees space like a vast and wondrous wilderness and Sooh is like a national park with trails and guides.

So, people can come onto our platform, use these online telescopes and communicate with all these other people who know and are motivated and inspired to share everything they know about space with each other, he said.

Slooh is supported by CT Innovations, investors and grant money from the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology, and the National Science Foundation.

Learn best by doing

Students learn best by doing, said Paolucci, as opposed to just reading about something or having someone else show them.

When you have to go figure out how to get an image of that thing for yourself, you learn things about it in the process  then you have this personalized keepsake in your memory and it locks in for you, he said.

The uniqueness of Slooh is its sharing capacity, he added.

With Slooh, its the idea of getting people to cooperatively be able to control telescopes together where everyone benefits, he said.

Paolucci said students who work with Slooh may realize they enjoy the space industry and decide to pursue it as a future career.

Bill Cloutier, a director of the John. J. McCarthy Observatory in New Milford, said Slooh is advantageous in that it has multiple telescopes and offers access to the sky to those not fortunate enough to have a community observatory, telescope or dark sky site.

Additionally, Cloutier said Sloohs flagship observatory in the Canary Islands, and another observatory in Chile, offer a number of advantages, among them dark skies, clear nights and locations that cover much of the sky in both hemispheres.

Cloutier added there are so many astronomical events that people miss out on with the changeable weather in New England or that are challenging with our near sea-level location  hurdles that Slooh overcomes with high-altitude facilities and multiple locations.

The application deadline for teachers to apply for the grant is Dec. 15. To apply, visit Slooh.org. Teachers must complete a short application, including a brief response about how Slooh will support space exploration for students at their school. To learn more about Slooh, visit education.slooh.com.
Dozens of residents turned out Tuesday to scrutinize the draft version of a downtown master plan, prepared by the RBA Group whose representatives were on hand to elaborate on details of the proposal.

"It is so important to see so many here today," said Melissa Kane, the chairwoman of the Downtown Steering Committee, which is providing guidance and technical assistance to the plan's consultants.

"In order to come up with a plan that's a Westport plan, we need people's feedback," she told those attending the public forum held at the McManus Room of the Westport Library. Two detailed presentations on the plan were given Tuesday -- at 5:30 and 7:30 p.m. -- followed by question-and-answer sessions.

Kane said that during the presentation "it was important to keep in mind that this is a work in progress and not the final draft."

But, she added, "you will see it is very comprehensive" with 40 recommendations for changes and improvements in the downtown area. She said questions following the presentation were encouraged, adding, they wanted to know if this "is a vision that we, as a town, can embrace."

The plan aims to make downtown more pedestrian-friendly, the audience was told. One way is by improving the downtown intersections along the Post Road, said Jackson Wandres, director of landscape architecture and planning for RBA. And, he added, "where sidewalks are missing, they have to be built." Others, already in place need to be repaired, he added.

He also said Church Lane is "a good candidate for a shared street -- a fairly new idea in the U.S. -- where pedestrians have the right-of-way."

The biggest transformation would be to revamp Jesup Green by removing the Taylor parking lot in front of the library and create a "big waterfront park" fronting on the Saugatuck River, Wandres explained. "Westport doesn't have a town green, per se," he said, adding the new green space could be it.

"This flat space could become a playground, a fitness course" or any number of uses, he said.

Another recommendation is to reconfigure the parking spaces at the Parker Harding lot and gaining 10 feet of space along the riverfront where an esplanade could be built.

The plan also proposes building a pedestrian bridge across the Saugatuck River to connect with the former Save the Children building where new development is planned, he said.

Parking downtown -- an issue raised by many residents -- was also addressed by Greg DelRio, RBA's transportation planner, who explained how changes downtown, like future development, would affect the amount of existing parking spaces.

Resident Pat Shea, during the question-and-answer portion, said parking could become more of an issue with "several new high-density developments planned" in town, including housing projects on the site of the Westport Inn and on Hiawatha Lane. "We made some assumptions about developments" in the master plan, Mark Keener, RBA director of urban design, told her.

Nikki Gorman, a pediatrician and mother, said she is "an advocate for a family-friendly community" and fully supports converting the Taylor lot to a green space. She said she would like to see a playground there, adding that she has circulated a petition with more than 300 signatures of residents who also support it, which she handed to Kane.

"I've already started a committee," she said, adding she also would personally like to see a fitness track there.

Fred Cantor, who said he comes to the library "a lot," thought the riverside esplanade at Parker Harding would be a great idea. "But why do you need an additional riverfront green at the library when parking is needed?" he asked.

Dick Stein, speaking with RBA representatives prior to the presentation, felt the same way. He said his concern is that creation of more open space, which he supports, also would mean a loss of parking spaces.

A number of residents, like Leah Fine, said they attended the forum "just to see what's being planned."

Fine said, who moved to town in 1969, she likes the idea of expanding Jesup Green, but doesn't want to see any more building downtown.

Her friend, Margaret LeBedis, expressed concern about the footbridge proposed across the river.

"I think it's for a very specific person's benefit," she said. "It's not for the town, but the town will probably end up paying for it."

The next step is a DSC work session Feb. 24 to review all the comments, including those from Planning and Zoning Commission members -- who reviewed the plan last month -- before sending any revisions to the plan back to RBA for the final draft.

Kane said comments will be accepted on the draft master plan until Friday on the committee's website, www.downtownwestportct.com.
WESTPORT  Superintendent Thomas Scarice said they had not heard rumors of a black mold infestation in the kindergarten hallway at Saugatuck Elementary School, but will investigate.

In response to an anonymous email to Hearst Connecticut Media suggesting a mold scandal, Scarice said the school district has dealt with previous mold issues at Bedford Middle School and Long Lots Elementary School, but there have been no mold issues currently reported from Saugatuck.

Those are the only two that we have dealt with in the past four to six months, so Im not aware of a report of something like that, Scarice said.

In an email to parents on Wednesday, Scarice said no mold was found at Saugatuck during officials routine Tools for Schools walk-through of the building, as part of their ongoing effort to monitor air quality.

Early in September as teachers and students begin to return to school, it was reported that spot surface mold was identified in some locations of Bedford Middle School. Scarice said the issues were promptly addressed by the custodial staff conducting regular cleaning protocols. However, as more spot surface mold areas were identified, the school met with their consulting industrial hygienist, Hygenix, Inc, which led to the decision to provide commercial cleaning assistance.

On Sept. 3, rooms 110 through 116 and room 124, were all cleared to be occupied again. Rooms 161, 167, and 214 required more cleaning and were all cleared on Sept. 7. Room 167 had to be treated and retested, but was eventually cleared later in the week.

In late June, concerns were raised by two parents from the Long Lots Elementary School about elevated humidity levels in the building that could potentially lead to an increased risk of indoor mold germination.

In July, mildew was found on some storage boxes in the auditorium.

Scarice said these concerns were addressed by conducting an indoor air quality assessment performed by industrial hygienist consultant, Langan CT, Inc.

The survey included an interior and exterior facility inspection, as well as sampling the air for indoor and outdoor spaces. The survey showed that all of the spaces fell within normal ranges, except for the auditorium and room 9.

These two locations demonstrated slightly elevated levels of Aspergillus, Penicillium when compared to outdoor air, Scarice said.

Scarice said that while there havent been any reports of mold at Saugatuck, they will follow the same process as the other cases to see if there is mold. This includes an analysis to determine the type of mold, if any, found there. The school will then have professional cleaning and, if needed, close off parts of the school until it is safe to return.

The email sent to Hearst Connecticut Media about the mold said it is in part due to a poorly renovated roof. Scarice acknowledge that roof leaks and water incursions have happened in the past, especially during the crazy rainstorms in August and early September.

I know there have been water incursions at Saugatuck and in other places over the years, but Saugatuck is actually slated for a roof replacement, Scarice said.

The district went out to bid for the project this spring. Scarice said its expected to be completed next summer.

He said the primary mitigating measures are to prevent water from getting into the buildings and to have a very strong HVAC system so that the humidity level temperatures dont fluctuate too much.

The district has had orevious problems with mold. It relocated students from Coleytown Middle School so it could address a mold issue there back in 2018.

This story has been updated to reflect no mold was found at Saugatuck.
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In 2001, President George W. Bush signed the USA Patriot Act, giving authorities unprecedented ability to search, seize, detain or eavesdrop in their pursuit of possible terrorists, and more events that happened on this day in history.

Video 1825: Erie Canal 1861: The Pony Express 1881: "Gunfight at the O.K. Corral" 1944: Battle of Leyte 1965: The Beatles 1984: "Baby Fae" 2001: The Patriot Act 2002: Moscow 2010: Iran 2011: Barack Obama 2011: Egypt 2016: The Chicago Cubs 2018: Megyn Kelly 2020: Amy Coney Barrett 2020: Walter Wallace
Much like the rest of the country, Connecticut is seeing an increase in the number of calls to poison control regarding a child that has been exposed to marijuana edibles.
Stephen Webb has been rocking Frank'n'Furter's heels for many a year now, but he's set to strut into a whole new challenge later this week when his performance as the iconic Transylvanian is beamed across the nation in a live broadcast of The Rocky Horror Show  perfect for anyone craving a Halloween fix.

He explains a bit more about joining the institution of a musical: "I've been in the business for 20 years, but there's never been anything like Rocky Horror. I was initially very much out of my comfort zone, but coming out of the smoke  you feel like a rockstar."

Though having never met the film Frank'n'Furter Tim Curry (who, for many, came to define the role), Webb has been spending a large amount of time with the show's original creator (and one of its original stars) Richard O'Brien: "Even before I got the role he took me out for a drink and told me an awful lot about the show and, importantly, told me to play my own version of the part. A lot of Frank'n'Furter is Richard  how he felt about himself."

Audiences shouldn't expect a carbon copy of Curry's performance then: "No one wants to see an imitation of Tim Curry. Of course, I do my own nod to him, but maybe ramp up some other aspects."

What is it like, with the improvising? "The audience is the third person  they add their own script. I never get complacent, because the crowds are so different. One night in Sunderland was so loud that we could barely hear the music. There are some great one-liners and even some additions  when we were in Ireland there were even some Covid gags. It's also evolving  we've got a younger crowd coming in and adding some of their own twists."

Now what will be funny is that thousands of individuals will be screaming the iconic lines in their own cinemas, though the volume of spectators doesn't faze Webb: "I'm doing the same show I've done every night. The film is so iconic but I think this show has scenes and songs that fans of the film will have never seen before. I'd love to be in those cinemas watching people doing the Time Warp."

The prescience of The Rocky Horror Show is not lost on Webb: "The world is evolving  you can be who you want to be. When the show first started it was considered taboo but now a lot more people are embracing the messages at the heart of the piece."

Tickets for The Rocky Horror Show are available in cinemas across the UK.
Local authorities and police say at least 18 worshippers have been killed by gunmen who attacked a mosque in northern Nigeria during morning prayers
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SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Across Northern California, crews worked Monday to clear streets of toppled trees and branches and to clean gutters clogged by debris carried by rainwater from a massive storm that caused flooding and rock slides, and knocked out power to hundreds of thousands.

Crossing guard Katy Bredahl is pelted with rain while keeping an eye out for children on Marinwood Avenue in San Rafael, Calif., on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021. Northern California residents delighted by this week's rain were cleaning up Friday and preparing for a massive storm this weekend, happy the precipitation has helped contain stubborn wildfires but fearful of flash flooding in vast areas already scorched by fire. (Sherry LaVars/Marin Independent Journal via AP)

SAN FRANCISCO (AP)  Across Northern California, crews worked Monday to clear streets of toppled trees and branches and to clean gutters clogged by debris carried by rainwater from a massive storm that caused flooding and rock slides, and knocked out power to hundreds of thousands.

Despite the problems, the rain and mountain snow were welcome in Northern California, which is so dry that nearly all of it is classified as either experiencing extreme or exceptional drought. The wet weather also greatly reduces the chances of additional wildfires in a region that has borne the brunt of another devastating year of blazes in the state.

When the storm arrived during the weekend, people joyfully dusted off rain boots and jackets and children stomped in puddles. Social media filled with pictures that showed windshields splattered with droplets of water and single-word posts: RAIN!!!

Earl Casaclang of San Francisco kept waiting for a break in the rain Sunday to go out and smoke a cigarette.

It was crazy! I kept thinking it was going to stop, but it just kept going and going, Casaclang said Monday as he headed to his job as a security guard in the Financial District. We need it to keep raining, but hopefully not that hard.

A car makes a big splash driving over a puddle on Third Street in San Rafael, Calif. on Thursday, Oct. 21, 2021. Northern California residents delighted by this week's rain were cleaning up Friday and preparing for a massive storm this weekend, happy the precipitation has helped contain stubborn wildfires but fearful of flash flooding in vast areas already scorched by fire. (Sherry LaVars/Marin Independent Journal via AP)

The National Weather Service called preliminary rainfall totals staggering, including 11 inches (28 centimeters) at the base of Marin Countys Mount Tamalpais and 4 inches (10 centimeters) in downtown San Francisco, the fourth-wettest day ever for the city.

Its been a memorable past 24 hours for the Bay Area as the long talked-about atmospheric river rolled through the region, the local weather office said. We literally have gone from fire/drought conditions to flooding in one storm cycle.

Northeast of the San Francisco Bay Area, 5.44 inches (13.82 centimeters) fell on downtown Sacramento, shattering the one-day record for rainfall that had stood since 1880.

A car drives on Highway 101, which is partially flooded in Corte Madera, Calif., Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

The storm was accompanied by strong winds that knocked down trees and even toppled two big rigs on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge. Pacific Gas & Electric reported Sunday evening that 380,000 homes and businesses lost power, though most had it back Monday.

Water rose so quickly that two people and a dog needed rescuing from rising creeks in separate incidents early Monday in San Jose. San Jose Fire crews located one person clinging to a tree in the Guadalupe River at 3:30 a.m., but were unable to locate a second person. An hour later, crews rescued an individual and their dog stranded on an island in the middle of Coyote Creek.

As the storm headed south, precipitation levels fell, though a flood warning still was issued Monday afternoon for Los Angeles County.

Rocks and vegetation cover Highway 70 following a landslide in the Dixie Fire zone on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021, in Plumas County, Calif. Heavy rains blanketing Northern California created slide and flood hazards in land scorched during last summer's wildfires. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Interstate 80, the major highway through the Sierra Nevada Mountains to Reno, Nevada, was shut down by heavy snow early Monday. In Californias Colusa and Yolo counties, state highways 16 and 20 were shut for several miles because of mudslides, the state Department of Transportation said.

The same storm system also slammed Oregon and Washington state, causing power outages that affected tens of thousands of people. Two people were killed when a tree fell on a vehicle in the greater Seattle area.

Lake Oroville, a major Northern California reservoir, saw its water levels rise 20 feet (6.10 meters) over the past week, according to the state's Department of Water Resource. Most of the increase came between Saturday and Monday, during the height of the storm, KHSL-TV reported.

A truck passes through floodwaters in Forestville, Calif., on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021. (AP Photo/Ethan Swope)

Justin Mankin, a geography professor at Dartmouth College and co-lead of the Drought Task Force at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, said the cycle of going from years-long drought to record-breaking downpours is something expected to continue due to climate change.

While this rain is welcome, it comes with these hazards and it won't necessarily end the drought, Mankin said. California still needs more precipitation, and it really needs it in high elevations and spread out over a longer time so its not hazardous.

Christy Brigham, chief of resource management and science at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, said the rain was a huge relief after the Caldor Fire torched an unknown number of the giant trees in the park, along with thousands of pines and cedars.

Crews work to upright an overturned semi-tractor-trailer truck on the Richmond-San Rafael Bridge in Richmond, Calif., on Sunday, Oct. 24, 2021. An atmospheric river storm, the strongest to hit the Bay Area in two years, moved through the Bay Area on Sunday. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group via AP)

This amount of rainfall is what we call a season-ending event, Brigham said. It should end fire season and it should end our need -- to a large degree -- to fight this fire.

The Caldor Fire has burned for more than two months and in early September it prompted the unprecedented evacuation of the entire city of South Lake Tahoe. Firefighters now consider it fully contained, a status that  thanks to the rain  also now applies to the Dixie Fire, the second-largest in state history at just under 1 million acres.

During the weekend, the California Highway Patrol closed a stretch of State Route 70 in Butte and Plumas counties because of multiple landslides within the massive Dixie Fire burn scar.

A car crosses a flooded parking lot in Oroville, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. A massive storm barreled toward Southern California on Monday after causing flooding across the northern half of the state. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Cal Fire, the state firefighting agency, wasn't ready to declare the wildfire season over or to cut staffing to winter levels. Wed like to see some more rain coming our way before we look at reducing staffing, spokesman Isaac Sanchez said.

Mankin said the long-term forecast for California shows drier-than-normal conditions.

To end different aspects of the drought, you are going to need a situation where parts of California get precipitation over the next three months thats about 200% of normal, he said, adding that despite this really, really insane rainfall, the winter is probably going to be drier than average."

___

Associated Press writers Janie Har in San Francisco, Christopher Weber and John Antczak in Los Angeles and Brian Melley in Three Rivers contributed to this report.
WINNIPEG - Lawyers for Indigenous child welfare agencies in Manitoba argued in court Tuesday that the provincial government misappropriated more than $250 million meant for vulnerable Indigenous children in care over a 13-year period.

The Manitoba Legislature is shown in Winnipeg on Aug. 30, 2014. Lawyers for Indigenous child welfare agencies in Manitoba are in court as part of an ongoing lawsuit accusing the provincial government of misappropriating more than $250 million meant for Indigenous children in care. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

WINNIPEG - Lawyers for Indigenous child welfare agencies in Manitoba argued in court Tuesday that the provincial government misappropriated more than $250 million meant for vulnerable Indigenous children in care over a 13-year period.

A four-day civil trial is being held in Winnipeg this week after the agencies sued the government in 2018.

The lawsuit claims the province began clawing back money from agencies in 2006 when the NDP was in power.

The money was part of the federally run Children's Special Allowance Act, which allows agencies to apply for a monthly payment from the federal government for children in care.

The practice of getting agencies to remit the funds continued when the Progressive Conservatives formed government in 2016.

"The children between 2006 and 2019 did not receive the (Children's Special Allowance) ... the province did receive it and it offset the amount of its costs," said Kris Saxberg, who is part of the team representing 19 child welfare agencies.

At the time the lawsuit was filed the agencies asked the courts to order the practice stopped, which the government eventually did in 2019.

In 2006, under the former NDP government, the province started to demand that all child-welfare agencies hand over the special allowance. Those funds were redirected to general revenues.

Many agencies refused at the time, an affidavit said, so the province started to hold back funding.

Other parties speaking on the case include lawyers for a former Child and Family Services executive, who is proposing a class-action lawsuit on behalf of children in care, and lawyers for the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, which says the province is abusing its power by enacting a clause in legislation that would prevent children in Manitoba from suing the government.

The assembly claims the Budget Implementation and Tax Statutes Amendment Act seeks to retroactively legalize the theft of the special allowance from First Nations children.

Lawyers for the child welfare agenciessaid the case is ultimately a dispute between Indigenous peoples and the province.

"We are dealing with the rights of Indigenous people in this case. The rights of Indigenous children," said Saxberg.

"Anything to do with child welfare, anything to do with the taking of the Children's Special Allowance affects Indigenous people."

Money from the funds can be used to pay for food, recreation or shelter. They are equal to the maximum federal child benefit.

The hearings are being held virtually due to the number of people participating.

Two youths who have been in care sat with Saxberg and others at their office, but they did not provide comments.

They did, however, provide statements in a pre-recorded video created by Metis Child and Family Services. The video was not submitted as evidence.

One 18-year-old woman, who has been a permanent ward of the government since she was 11, had a message for the province.

"I know that you see this case from numbers on paper, but we're more than numbers on paper. We're real people, real children who are just needing a little bit of help," she said.

The Southern Chiefs' Organization, which represents 34 First Nations in southern Manitoba, also posted a statement online.

"Children in care need extra protection  and not a provincial Treaty partner that steals from children," the statement reads.

"The money provided by the federal government, called the Children's Special Allowance, was to support children in care."

To coincide with the hearings, the First Nations Family Advocate Office is hosting an event outside the Manitoba legislature until Oct. 28 to offer people a safe space to discuss their experiences with the child welfare system.

There are 9,850 children in care in Manitoba and 91 per cent are Indigenous, according to the province's latest annual report.

At the end of the week, a judge may be able to force the government to repay the funds.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2021.

---

This story was produced with the financial assistance of the Facebook and Canadian Press News Fellowship.
CALGARY - A type of corporate equity structure used by several of Canadas most prominent companies is once again under fire from critics in light of the current chaos at Rogers Communications Inc.

The Rogers Logo is photographed in Toronto office on Monday, Sept. 30, 2019. Critics of dual-class share structures say the fight for control of Rogers Communications Inc. is proof that the model is badly flawed. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Tijana Martin

CALGARY - A type of corporate equity structure used by several of Canadas most prominent companies is once again under fire from critics in light of the current chaos at Rogers Communications Inc.

Dual-class share structures  where companies issue different classes of common shares, each with their own level of voting and control rights  are used by companies like Shaw Communications Inc., Fairfax Financial Holdings Ltd., Bombardier Inc., Canadian Tire Corp. Ltd. and others. Typically, they give disproportionate voting rights to one group of shareholders such as the company's founders, family members and executives.

Rogers Communications  which is embroiled in a bitter battle for control of the company this week  is also a dual-class share structure. At Rogers, the family trust owns 97 per cent of the class A voting shares and 9.89 per cent of class B shares, which pay dividends but do not have voting rights. Family members also take up a disproportionate share of board seats.

This kind of structure can be problematic, said Glenn Rowe, a professor at the University of Western Ontarios Ivey School of Business, in that it creates an inferior class of shareholders and lack of accountability around the board table.

You can get entrenched boards, because the board is elected by the controlling shareholder, and there could be fewer checks and balances, Rowe said. There are disadvantages, and were seeing some of those disadvantages play out in the Rogers saga.

Business industry observers and analysts predict difficulty ahead for the communications giant, as two parties battle for control of Rogers. Ousted board chair Edward Rogers claimed he was re-elected chair on Sunday, and is backed by a new hand-picked board.

His mother, sisters and several other board members dispute that claim, saying his re-election meeting was illegitimate and that the five members who were replaced by Edward Rogers remain on the board.

Its high-stakes corporate drama, but Rowe said while the companys dual-class share structure is partly to blame, its still rare for a company to descend to this level of turmoil.

"In the time Ive studied dual class share structures, thereve only really been two major dust-ups (at dual-class share structured companies)," he said. "Magna International, which was 10 or 11 years ago, and now Rogers. You can look at a lot of dual-class share structured companies that dont lead to this type of situation."

Kevin Thomas, chief executive of SHARE (Shareholder Association for Research and Education), said his organization doesn't favour dual-class share structures as a general rule. He said the situation at Rogers is an example of what happens when boards become "entrenched" with a lack of accountability.

"Dual-class share structures dont work and we should be discouraging them as much as possible," Thomas said.

But Francois Dauphin, president and chief executive of the Institute for Governance of Private and Public Organizations, says his organization is in favour of dual-class share structures because they can protect startup or visionary companies from being pressured by large, institutional shareholders, who typically only hold shares in a company for a short period of time and are only interested in short-term returns.

"It's also a way to protect companies from hostile takeovers. We are really subject to that in Canada, so we need to protect our companies and family businesses," he said.

But Dauphin added that dual-class share structures need to have limitations set upon them. He said he's an advocate of putting in a sunset clause, where the dual-class shares disappear when the founder of the company dies or exits the scene.

He also said that most dual-class share structured companies in Canada allow subordinate voters to have at least some voting rights, and that's where Rogers has gone wrong.

"What we usually see more often is that subordinate shareholders will have the right to elect up to a third of the board members," Dauphin said. At Rogers, they have 50 votes to zero for the subordinate shareholders, so this is a very unique case. This is not something we would ever advocate for.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2021.

Companies in this story: (TSX:RCI.B)
TORONTO - The boardroom drama engulfing Rogers Communications Inc. intensified Tuesday after Edward Rogers filed a petition to have his newly constituted board declared legitimate, and said his mother and sisters had previously supported his moves.

Rogers corporate head office and headquarters seen from Ted Rogers Way in Toronto on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Evan Buhler

TORONTO - The boardroom drama engulfing Rogers Communications Inc. intensified Tuesday after Edward Rogers filed a petition to have his newly constituted board declared legitimate, and said his mother and sisters had previously supported his moves.

The son of late Rogers Communications Inc. founder Ted Rogers asked the B.C. Supreme Court for a declaration confirming the validity of his board. He also asked Rogers to adjust its registry to reflect the board he created.

Late Tuesday, the company said in a release that the court will hold a hearing on Monday to hear submissions from Rogers Communications and Rogers Control Trust regarding Edward Rogers' attempt to replace the five independent directors.

The board is at the heart of a dispute that has broken out between Edward Rogers and his mother Loretta Rogers, sisters Melinda Rogers-Hixon and Martha Rogers and several of their associates.

Edward Rogers named five new directors to the board on Friday, a day after his mother, sisters and other members ousted him from his role as board chair because of what media reports described as a plot to remove CEO Joe Natale and replace him with Tony Staffieri, the company's former chief financial officer.

Natale, who was previously CEO of competitor Telus Corp., was appointed president and CEO of Rogers in April 2017, while Stafferi had been CFO for 10 years.

The other family members continue to back Natale, insist the board Edward Rogers formed is illegitimate and say the board as it existed prior to Edward Rogers changes is the only valid one.

However, the affidavit Edward Rogers filed when seeking affirmation of his board raises new questions about how strongly Natale is supported.

The court filings say that several board members, including Loretta Rogers, raised concerns about Natales performance as the firm was staging a $26-billion takeover of rival Shaw Communications Inc. and they began discussing Mr. Staffieri as a replacement.

My mother Loretta and sister Martha in particular expressed the firm view that Mr. Natale had had more than four years to prove himself and that it was time for a change, Edward said in his affidavit.

They also expressed support for Mr. Staffieri as a strong candidate to replace Mr. Natale.

Loretta Rogers disputes that characterization.

"The claims Edward makes in his affidavit are as unfortunate as they are untrue, she said in an email.

Edward Rogers alleges in the court filings that Natale approached him and said he overheard Staffieri talking about the plan. Natale told Edward Rogers he wanted to terminate Staffieri, but Edward refused.

At a Sept. 22 board meeting a few days afterward, Edward Rogers said he presented a slide presentation laden with performance metrics to show Rogers was underperforming its competitors under Natale's leadership.

Exhibits entered as part of Edward Rogers' affidavit show Rogers' share price had fallen during Natale's tenure and it was adding fewer wireless and internet subscribers than BCE Inc. and Telus Corp.

He alleges that he talked to Loretta and Martha Rogers about the circumstances in advance and the potential for Staffieri to take over. Both supported the plan, he said, and Loretta Rogers even prepared a statement to the board.

"Tony will be a strong CEO at Rogers and I look forward to working with him in his new role," Edward Rogers alleges Loretta Rogers said in her statement.

"He is all about results and execution and that is what we need as we have a tough five years ahead of us with integrating Shaw and achieving the objectives of that deal."

Loretta Rogers said the statement was written for her by Edward Rogers and based on information she thought to be "full, complete and accurate" about Natale's performance because it was provided by her son and board member Alan Horn.

She said she later developed a more complete perspective on the issue and reversed course to support Natale.

Melinda Rogers-Hixon said she too continues to back Natale.

It is unfortunate that Edward has advanced a false narrative regarding our mother to provide cover for his misguided position to replace the independent directors of RCI by the stroke of a pen," she said in a statement. (RCI is the company's stock ticker.)

Edward Rogers said in court documents, the companys board voted 10-1 in late September to accept Natales retirement, which was to happen on Oct. 1, but deferred resolutions related to Staffieris appointment a few days so his compensation package could be arranged.

John MacDonald, who was named board chair after Edward Rogers' removal and continues to speak for Rogers, said that's not true.

"At no time did the majority of the board vote to remove Joe Natale as CEO of Rogers Communications," he wrote in an email. "There are several critical and material items that are categorically false in the chair of the trusts affidavit and I plan to fully set the record straight when given the opportunity through the court process.

Edward Rogers said in court filings, board member John MacDonald interrupted a subsequent meeting to tell him some members have a new plan to present. MacDonald, Edward Rogers alleges, gave the floor to Martha Rogers to present a plan to fire Staffieri and rescind Natale's retirement.

Edward said he, Horn and Melinda Rogers later visited his mother's cottage, where she was with Martha Rogers, to try to reach a resolution and he proposed letting Natale and Staffieri work together as the Shaw transaction neared closure.

"The next day, I received a brief email from Mr. MacDonald, copying his director group and Melinda, Martha, and my mother, saying 'Edward, we have reviewed the proposal you suggested to me yesterday and have rejected it.'" Edward Rogers wrote in his affidavit.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2021.

Companies in this story: (TSX:RCI.B)
WASHINGTON (AP)  In March, as claims about the dangers and ineffectiveness of coronavirus vaccines spun across social media and undermined attempts to stop the spread of the virus, some Facebook employees thought they had found a way to help.

FILE - In this Sept. 23, 2021, file photo, Oumie Nyassi shows a video circulating on the internet and that has been confirmed as fake news of a woman claiming she was magnetized after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, in a doctor's office at Serrekunda, Gambia hospital. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Leo Correa, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  In March, as claims about the dangers and ineffectiveness of coronavirus vaccines spun across social media and undermined attempts to stop the spread of the virus, some Facebook employees thought they had found a way to help.

By altering how posts about vaccines are ranked in peoples newsfeeds, researchers at the company realized they could curtail the misleading information individuals saw about COVID-19 vaccines and offer users posts from legitimate sources like the World Health Organization.

Given these results, Im assuming were hoping to launch ASAP, one Facebook employee wrote, responding to the internal memo about the study.

Instead, Facebook shelved some suggestions from the study. Other changes weren't made until April.

When another Facebook researcher suggested disabling some comments on vaccine posts in March until the platform could do a better job of tackling anti-vaccine messages lurking in them, that proposal was ignored at the time.

Critics say the reason Facebook was slow to take action on the ideas is simple: The tech giant worried it might impact the companys profits.

Why would you not remove comments? Because engagement is the only thing that matters, said Imran Ahmed, the CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, an internet watchdog group. It drives attention and attention equals eyeballs and eyeballs equal ad revenue.

FILE - In this Feb. 23, 2018, file photo, doctor Roberto Ieraci vaccinate a woman in a vaccine center in Rome. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino, File)

In an emailed statement, Facebook said it has made considerable progress this year with downgrading vaccine misinformation in users' feeds.

Facebooks internal discussions were revealed in disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugens legal counsel. The redacted versions received by Congress were obtained by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press.

The trove of documents shows that in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook carefully investigated how its platforms spread misinformation about life-saving vaccines. They also reveal rank-and-file employees regularly suggested solutions for countering anti-vaccine content on the site, to no avail. The Wall Street Journal reported on some of Facebook's efforts to deal with anti-vaccine comments last month.

Facebook's response raises questions about whether the company prioritized controversy and division over the health of its users.

These people are selling fear and outrage, said Roger McNamee, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist and early investor in Facebook who is now a vocal critic. It is not a fluke. It is a business model.

Typically, Facebook ranks posts by engagement  the total number of likes, dislikes, comments, and reshares. That ranking scheme may work well for innocuous subjects like recipes, dog photos, or the latest viral singalong. But Facebooks own documents show that when it comes to divisive public health issues like vaccines, engagement-based ranking only emphasizes polarization, disagreement, and doubt.

To study ways to reduce vaccine misinformation, Facebook researchers changed how posts are ranked for more than 6,000 users in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil, and the Philippines. Instead of seeing posts about vaccines that were chosen based on their popularity, these users saw posts selected for their trustworthiness.

The results were striking: a nearly 12% decrease in content that made claims debunked by fact-checkers and an 8% increase in content from authoritative public health organizations such as the WHO or U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Those users also had a 7% decrease in negative interactions on the site.

FILE - In this Nov. 15, 2018 file photo, the icons of Facebook and WhatsApp are pictured on an iPhone, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner, File)

Employees at the company reacted to the study with exuberance, according to internal exchanges included in the whistleblowers documents.

Is there any reason we wouldnt do this? one Facebook employee wrote in response to an internal memo outlining how the platform could rein in anti-vaccine content.

Facebook said it did implement many of the studys findings  but not for another month, a delay that came at a pivotal stage of the global vaccine rollout.

In a statement, company spokeswoman Dani Lever said the internal documents dont represent the considerable progress we have made since that time in promoting reliable information about COVID-19 and expanding our policies to remove more harmful COVID and vaccine misinformation.

The company also said it took time to consider and implement the changes.

Yet the need to act urgently couldn't have been clearer: At that time, states across the U.S. were rolling out vaccines to their most vulnerable  the elderly and sick. And public health officials were worried. Only 10% of the population had received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. And a third of Americans were thinking about skipping the shot entirely, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Despite this, Facebook employees acknowledged they had no idea just how bad anti-vaccine sentiment was in the comments sections on Facebook posts. But company research in February found that as much as 60% of the comments on vaccine posts were anti-vaccine or vaccine reluctant.

Thats a huge problem and we need to fix it, the presentation on March 9 read.

FILE - In this Oct. 5, 2021, file photo, former Facebook data scientist Frances Haugen speaks during a hearing of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, on Capitol Hill, in Washington. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Even worse, company employees admitted they didnt have a handle on catching those comments. And if they did, Facebook didnt have a policy in place to take the comments down. The free-for-all was allowing users to swarm vaccine posts from news outlets or humanitarian organizations with negative comments about vaccines.

Our ability to detect (vaccine hesitancy) in comments is bad in English  and basically non-existent elsewhere, another internal memo posted on March 2 said.

Los Angeles resident Derek Beres, an author and fitness instructor, sees anti-vaccine content thrive in the comments every time he promotes immunizations on his accounts on Instagram, which is owned by Facebook. Last year, Beres began hosting a podcast with friends after they noticed conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and vaccines were swirling on the social media feeds of popular health and wellness influencers.

Earlier this year, when Beres posted a picture of himself receiving the COVID-19 shot, some on social media told him he would likely drop dead in six months time.

"The comments section is a dumpster fire for so many people, Beres said.

Anti-vaccine comments on Facebook grew so bad that even as prominent public health agencies like UNICEF and the World Health Organization were urging people to take the vaccine, the organizations refused to use free advertising that Facebook had given them to promote inoculation, according to the documents.

Some Facebook employees had an idea. While the company worked to hammer out a plan to curb all the anti-vaccine sentiment in the comments, why not disable commenting on posts altogether?

Very interested in your proposal to remove ALL in-line comments for vaccine posts as a stopgap solution until we can sufficiently detect vaccine hesitancy in comments to refine our removal, one Facebook employee wrote on March 2.

FILE - In this Aug. 20, 2021, file photo, protesters against vaccine and mask mandates demonstrate near the state capitol, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Cedar Attanasio, File)

The suggestion went nowhere until mid-April, when Lever said the company stopped showing previews of popular comments on vaccine posts.

Instead, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on March 15 that the company would start labeling posts about vaccines that described them as safe.

The move allowed Facebook to continue to get high engagement  and ultimately profit  off anti-vaccine comments, said Ahmed of the Center for Countering Digital Hate.

They were trying to find ways to not reduce engagement but at the same time make it look like they were trying to make some moves toward cleaning up the problems that they caused, he said.

Its unrealistic to expect a multi-billion-dollar company like Facebook to voluntarily change a system that has proven to be so lucrative, said Dan Brahmy, CEO of Cyabra, an Israeli tech firm that analyzes social media networks and disinformation. Brahmy said government regulations may be the only thing that could force Facebook to act.

The reason they didnt do it is because they didnt have to, Brahmy said. If it hurts the bottom line, its undoable.

Bipartisan legislation in the U.S. Senate would require social media platforms to give users the option of turning off algorithms tech companies use to organize individuals' newsfeeds.

Sen. John Thune, R-South Dakota, a sponsor of the bill, asked Facebook whistleblower Haugen to describe the dangers of engagement-based ranking during her testimony before Congress earlier this month.

She said there are other ways of ranking content  for instance, by the quality of the source, or chronologically  that would serve users better. The reason Facebook wont consider them, she said, is that they would reduce engagement.

Facebook knows that when they pick out the content ... we spend more time on their platform, they make more money, Haugen said.

Haugens leaked documents also reveal that a relatively small number of Facebooks anti-vaccine users are rewarded with big pageviews under the tech platforms current ranking system.

Internal Facebook research presented on March 24 warned that most of the problematic vaccine content was coming from a handful of areas on the platform. In Facebook communities where vaccine distrust was highest, the report pegged 50% of anti-vaccine pageviews on just 111  or .016%  of Facebook accounts.

Top producers are mostly users serially posting (vaccine hesitancy) content to feed, the research found.

On that same day, the Center for Countering Digital Hate published an analysis of social media posts that estimated just a dozen Facebook users were responsible for 73% of anti-vaccine posts on the site between February and March. It was a study that Facebooks leaders in August told the public was faulty, despite the internal research published months before that confirmed a small number of accounts drive anti-vaccine sentiment.

Earlier this month, an AP-NORC poll found that most Americans blame social media companies, like Facebook, and their users for misinformation.

But Ahmed said Facebook shouldn't just shoulder blame for that problem.

Facebook has taken decisions which have led to people receiving misinformation which caused them to die, Ahmed said. At this point, there should be a murder investigation.

___

Seitz reported from Columbus, Ohio.

___

See full coverage of the The Facebook Papers here: https://apnews.com/hub/the-facebook-papers
WASHINGTON (AP)  In March, as claims about the dangers and ineffectiveness of coronavirus vaccines spun across social media and undermined attempts to stop the spread of the virus, some Facebook employees thought they had found a way to help.

FILE - In this Sept. 23, 2021, file photo, Oumie Nyassi shows a video circulating on the internet and that has been confirmed as fake news of a woman claiming she was magnetized after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, in a doctor's office at Serrekunda, Gambia hospital. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Leo Correa, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  In March, as claims about the dangers and ineffectiveness of coronavirus vaccines spun across social media and undermined attempts to stop the spread of the virus, some Facebook employees thought they had found a way to help.

By subtly altering how posts about vaccines are ranked in peoples newsfeeds, researchers at the company realized they could curtail the misleading information individuals saw about COVID-19 vaccines and offer users posts from legitimate sources like the World Health Organization.

Given these results, Im assuming were hoping to launch ASAP, one Facebook employee wrote in March, responding to the internal memo about the study.

Instead, Facebook shelved some suggestions from the study. Other changes werent made until April.

When another Facebook researcher suggested disabling comments on vaccine posts in March until the platform could do a better job of tackling anti-vaccine messages lurking in them, that proposal was ignored at the time.

Critics say Facebook was slow to act because it worried it might impact the companys profits.

FILE - In this Nov. 15, 2018 file photo, the icons of Facebook and WhatsApp are pictured on an iPhone, in Gelsenkirchen, Germany. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Martin Meissner, File)

Why would you not remove comments? Because engagement is the only thing that matters, said Imran Ahmed, the CEO of the Center for Countering Digital Hate, an internet watchdog group. It drives attention and attention equal eyeballs and eyeballs equal ad revenue.

In an emailed statement, Facebook said it has made considerable progress this year with downgrading vaccine misinformation in users feeds.

Facebooks internal discussions were revealed in disclosures made to the Securities and Exchange Commission and provided to Congress in redacted form by former Facebook employee-turned-whistleblower Frances Haugens legal counsel. The redacted versions received by Congress were obtained by a consortium of news organizations, including The Associated Press.

The trove of documents shows that in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Facebook carefully investigated how its platforms spread misinformation about life-saving vaccines. They also reveal rank-and-file employees regularly suggested solutions for countering anti-vaccine misinformation on the site, to no avail. The Wall Street Journal reported on some of Facebooks efforts to deal with antivaccine comments last month.

The inaction raises questions about whether Facebook prioritized controversy and division over the health of its users.

These people are selling fear and outrage, said Roger McNamee, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist and early investor in Facebook who is now a vocal critic. It is not a fluke. It is a business model.

Typically, Facebook ranks posts by engagement  the total number of likes, dislikes, comments and reshares. That ranking scheme may work well for innocuous subjects like recipes, dog photos or the latest viral singalong. But Facebooks own documents show that when it comes to divisive, contentious issues like vaccines, engagement-based ranking only emphasizes polarization, disagreement and doubt.

FILE - In this Aug. 20, 2021, file photo, protesters against vaccine and mask mandates demonstrate near the state capitol, in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Cedar Attanasio, File)

To study ways to reduce vaccine misinformation, Facebook researchers changed how posts are ranked for more than 6,000 users in the U.S., Mexico, Brazil and the Philippines. Instead of seeing posts about vaccines that were chosen based on their engagement, these users saw posts selected for their trustworthiness.

The results were striking: a nearly 12% decrease in content that made claims debunked by fact-checkers and an 8% increase in content from authoritative public health organizations such as the WHO or U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

Employees at the company reacted with exuberance, according to internal exchanges.

Is there any reason we wouldnt do this? one Facebook employee wrote in response.

Facebook said it did implement many of the study's findings  but not for another month, a delay that came at a pivotal stage of the global vaccine rollout.

In a statement, company spokeswoman Dani Lever said the internal documents dont represent the considerable progress we have made since that time in promoting reliable information about COVID-19 and expanding our policies to remove more harmful COVID and vaccine misinformation.

The company also said it took time to consider and implement the changes.

FILE - In this Oct. 5, 2021, file photo, former Facebook data scientist Frances Haugen speaks during a hearing of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, on Capitol Hill, in Washington. Last spring, as false claims about vaccine safety threatened to undermine the world's response to COVID-19, researchers at Facebook wrote that they could reduce vaccine misinformation by tweaking how vaccine posts show up on users' newsfeeds, or by turning off comments entirely. Yet despite internal documents showing these changes worked, Facebook was slow to take action. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)

Yet the need to act urgently couldnt have been clearer: At that time, states across the U.S. were rolling out vaccines to their most vulnerable  the elderly and sick. And public health officials were worried. Only 10% of the population had received their first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. And a third of Americans were thinking about skipping the shot entirely, according to a poll from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Despite this, Facebook employees acknowledged they had no idea just how bad anti-vaccine sentiment was in the comments sections on Facebook posts. But company research in February found that as much as 60% of the comments on vaccine posts were anti-vaccine or vaccine reluctant.

Even worse, company employees admitted they didnt have a handle on catching those comments, or a policy in place to take them down.

Our ability to detect (vaccine hesitancy) in comments is bad in English  and basically non-existent elsewhere, another internal memo posted on March 2 said.

Los Angeles resident Derek Beres, an author and fitness instructor, sees anti-vaccine content thrive in the comments every time he promotes immunizations on his account on Instagram, which is owned by Facebook. Last year, Beres began hosting a podcast after noticing conspiracy theories about COVID-19 and vaccines were swirling on the social media feeds of health and wellness influencers.

Earlier this year, when Beres posted a picture of himself receiving the COVID-19 shot, some on social media told him he would likely drop dead in six months time.

The comments section is a dumpster fire for so many people, Beres said.

Some Facebook employees suggesting disabling all commenting on vaccine posts while the company worked on a solution.

Very interested in your proposal to remove ALL in-line comments for vaccine posts as a stopgap solution until we can sufficiently detect vaccine hesitancy in comments to refine our removal, one Facebook employee wrote on March 2.

The suggestion went nowhere until mid-April, when Lever said the company stopped showing previews of popular comments on vaccine posts.

Instead, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg announced on March 15 that the company would start labeling posts about vaccines that described them as safe.

The move allowed Facebook to continue to get high engagement  and ultimately profit  off anti-vaccine comments, said Ahmed of the Center for Countering Digital Hate.

Facebook has taken decisions which have led to people receiving misinformation which caused them to die, Ahmed said. At this point, there should be a murder investigation.

___

Seitz reported from Columbus, Ohio.
TORONTO - George Weston Ltd. has signed a deal to sell its Weston Foods fresh and frozen bakery businesses to FGF Brands Inc. for $1.2 billion.

A George Weston Ltd. image is shown at the company's annual general meeting in Toronto on Tuesday, May 10, 2016. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette

TORONTO - George Weston Ltd. has signed a deal to sell its Weston Foods fresh and frozen bakery businesses to FGF Brands Inc. for $1.2 billion.

The company put Weston Foods up for sale in March as part of a plan to focus on its retail and real estate businesses including its large stake in Loblaw Companies Ltd. and interest in Choice Properties Real Estate Investment Trust.

"The Weston Foods business has been the foundation for the Weston Group in Canada since its establishment in 1882 and the decision to sell it was a difficult one," chairman and CEO Galen G. Weston said in a statement Tuesday.

"However, we are pleased that the purchaser of the fresh and frozen businesses is FGF, another long-standing family business with a strong presence in bakery and a significant footprint in Canada. With FGF as the new owner, the business will be in good hands."

Weston Foods produces bread, rolls and other baked goods in Canada and the U.S.

The company makes private label products and brands including Wonder, Ace Bakery and D'Italiano.

The fresh and frozen bakery businesses made up about 75 per cent of Weston Foods' 2020 net sales.

George Weston said Tuesday it remains committed to selling its remaining food business  comprised of cookies, cones, crackers and wafers.

FGF Brands is a Canadian, family-owned bakery company founded in 2004.

Its brands include Stonefire Authentic Flatbreads and Simple Joys Bakery and has bakeries in Canada and the United States.

The sale is subject to regulatory approval and other closing conditions and is expected to close before the end of the first quarter of 2022.

The company said it expects to return the net proceeds from the sale to shareholders through share repurchases over time.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2021.

Companies in this story: (TSX:WN)
SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Samsungs de facto chief Lee Jae-yong was fined 70 million won (about $60,000) on Tuesday for illegally using the anesthetic drug propofol, about two months after he was released on parole over a separate corruption case.

Samsung Electronics Vice Chairman Lee Jae-yong leaves the Seoul Central District Court in Seoul, South Korea, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. Samsungs de facto chief Lee Jae-yong was fined 70 million won (about $60,000) on Tuesday for illegally using the anesthetic drug propofol, about two months after he was released on parole over a separate corruption case.(Lee Ji-eun/Yonhap via AP)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  Samsungs de facto chief Lee Jae-yong was fined 70 million won (about $60,000) on Tuesday for illegally using the anesthetic drug propofol, about two months after he was released on parole over a separate corruption case.

The Seoul Central District Court said it convicted Lee, vice chairman of Samsung Electronics, of violating a law on drug controls. It said Lee was also ordered to forfeit about 10 million won ($8,570).

Lee, who is the third-generation heir of South Korea's biggest company, Samsung, has been involved in a series of corruption cases lately. The company's crown jewel, Samsung Electronics, singlehandedly represents about 20% of South Koreas entire stock market value and one-fourth of its total exports.

Prosecutors earlier accused Lee of taking propofol at a hospital in Seoul about 40 times for non-medical purposes. Lees lawyers said he took propofol in line with a doctors prescription, according to the court.

Propofol is used for anesthesia and sedation. Its use gained notoriety in 2009 when pop star Michael Jackson died of a propofol overdose.

In August, Lee was released from prison after serving 18 months of a 30-month sentence for embezzling millions of dollars from corporate funds to bribe then-President Park Geun-hye. The bribery scheme was to ensure Geun-hye's support for a 2015 merger between two Samsung affiliates that tightened Lee's control over the corporate empire.

Lee is also facing a separate court trial over alleged stock price manipulation, auditing violations and other financial crimes related to the 2015 merger.
The little airport in Lynn Lake is hoping to play a small role in Canadian aviation history with a test flight of a hypersonic aircraft that, with Transport Canadas blessing, will happen before the end of the year.

The little airport in Lynn Lake is hoping to play a small role in Canadian aviation history with a test flight of a hypersonic aircraft that, with Transport Canadas blessing, will happen before the end of the year.

The so-called Ramjet technology is the brainchild of Pradeep Dass, the founder of an Edmonton company called Space Engine Systems (SES), who has ran an oil and gas equipment company called Can-K for many years.

The aircraft that SES is designing would reach speeds of Mach 5  five times the speed of sound. By comparison the Concorde flew at speeds of Mach 2.

SES is part of a growing number of aviation companies around the world  from startups to brand name global players  trying to develop hypersonic aircraft.

If successful, for instance, it could fly emergency medical flights, say an organ for transplant, from Toronto to Edmonton in 30 minutes.

In addition to point to point travel  Dass already has four spaceports lined up in the U.S.  he is also already selling tickets for space tourism flights by 2023 like Jeff Bezos Blue Origin and Richard Bransons Virgin Galactic.

SUPPLIED The unmanned test flight planned for Lynn Lake involves dropping the vehicle, that weighs about 820 kilograms and is about four metres long, called Sexbomb, from a stratospheric balloon that lifts it to 110,000 feet.

As well, Dass says there are many potential military applications.

The unmanned test flight planned for Lynn Lake involves dropping the vehicle, that weighs about 820 kilograms and is about four metres long, called Sexbomb  it will travel so fast it would obliterate anything in its path like a bomb and its sexy  from a stratospheric balloon that lifts it to 110,000 feet. As it falls it will accelerate to about Mach 1.8 when the engine will be triggered, at about 57,000 feet, and then will fly at hypersonic speed for about four minutes when it will run out of fuel.

It will then glide back down and land at the Lynn Lake airstrip. Its flight will all be pre-programmed.

Fred Petrie, a long time aviation industry consultant took over ownership and operation of the Lynn Lake airport in 2013 with a couple of partners. He has played an instrumental role in connecting SES with Lynn Lake, which is about 1,000 km north of Winnipeg.

"I spent a good part of my career consulting, trying to help small airports pay for themselves," Petrie said. "I tell the joke that when we took over the Lynn Lake airport from the town I asked myself what does Lynn Lake have going for it? What can be our competitive advantage?

Dasss engine uses a multifuel combustion of nontoxic liquid and solid propellants in a combination that is unique at this point in the development of this type of technology.

"The short answer is nothing," he said. "Most would give up at this point but I asked, what is nothing good for?"

It turns out, it is useful for just this type of aviation testing.

The aircraft will travel about 500 kilometres along a route that has no habitable communities below it. (Lac Brochet and Tadoule Lake are about 50 kilometres on either side of the planned flight path.)

"If anything happens on this flight if it were to come to earth in an unplanned way, at most, and it is highly doubtful, it might injure a caribou," Petrie said.

The vehicle would land on skids on a snow-packed runway. Dass said that if all goes well with Transport Canada and it received a certificate to do the test, SES would consider testing the next iteration of its vehicle, called Hello-1 which would include a turbojet engine to allow for a horizontal takeoff to take the craft into higher altitudes before the hypersonic Ramjet kicks in.

The next iteration, Hello-2 would add a small rocket engine to reach space.

Dasss engine uses a multi-fuel combustion of non-toxic liquid and solid propellants in a combination that is unique at this point in the development of this type of technology.

The opportunity to test the technology at Lynn Lake is not a sure thing. As they wait for Transport Canada approval the company has already lined up alternative test sites in the U.S.

"If Transport Canada does not approve us for some reason in our time frame or delays it (Dass said the test needs to happen before the end of the year), we can easily test it in the U.S. They have already rolled out red carpet," he said. "We thought we would wait to give Canada the chance to have the pride in being part of this."

Dass said the goal of SES is to design an aircraft that will operate at a lower cost than Elon Musks SpaceX venture.

SES currently has about 22 engineers on staff and by next year it will be up to about 120 internationally. (In addition to some U.S. facilities it also has a base in the U.K.)

After raising some money before the pandemic, the company had a valuation of just less than $100 million.

martin.cash@freepress.mb.ca
Seven of Canadas most powerful women have roles at the University of Manitoba, according to a new awards list that dropped Monday.

Seven of Canadas most powerful women have roles at the University of Manitoba, according to a new awards list that dropped Monday.

The Womens Executive Network, a North American organization celebrating women, unveiled its Top 100 Award Winners list for 2021. Winners are role models who advocate for workplace diversity, according to a news release.

Dr. Tracie Afifi, a professor in the community health sciences and psychiatry departments, was a recipient of the Mercedes-Benz Emerging Leaders award. Afifi is a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in childhood adversity and resilience. Shes published 160 peer-reviewed journal articles and has been awarded over $33 million in research funding.

Dr. Melanie Morris won the same award as Afifi. Shes the first Indigenous pediatric surgeon and urologist in Canada, and she became the lead of Indigenous health at Winnipegs Childrens Hospital, carving the first position of its kind in Canada. Morris is an associate professor at the university.

"It was a great email to receive," Janice Ristock said of learning shed made the list.

Ristock is the universitys former provost and vice-president (academic), and a professor of women and gender studies. She won the CIBC Executive Leaders award.

"I think... its important to have awards like this that can convey the message to other women that they should consider leadership roles, and that there are many, many possibilities in their future," she said.

Historically, women havent been recognized for their contributions and leadership roles, making this award more meaningful, she said.

University of Manitoba president Michael Benarroch nominated Ristock.

Dr. Joanne Embree, a professor in the universitys pediatrics and medical microbiology departments, also received the CIBC Executive Leaders award. Embree has been the medical lead for infection prevention and control at the Childrens Hospital in Winnipeg since 1990. Shes been chair of the Public Health Agency of Canadas prevention and control expert working group since 2017.

Dr. Patricia Birk is being recognized for her promotion of equity and diversity in health care.

Birk is head of the universitys pediatric department. Shes a lead in child health for Shared Health and a medical director for Transplant Manitoba.

Tina Chen, a history professor, is among the powerful women noted. She works with organizations to promote anti-racism and equity action, according to the Womens Executive Network.

Finally, Melanie MacKinnon, the executive director of the Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing at the University of Manitoba, is on the list. Shes the co-lead of the Manitoba First Nation Pandemic Response Coordination team on behalf of the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs.

"It is a testament to the high quality of (University of Manitoba) faculty that these seven winners join 20 previous UM recipients who were named Canadas Most Powerful Women: Top 100 since the awards began in 2003," Digvir Jayas, the universitys vice-president (research and international), said in a written statement.

Due to the pandemic, the women wont have an in-person celebration; theyll attend a virtual event in November instead.

gabrielle.piche@winnipegfreepress.com
A real estate report says Vancouver, Niagara Falls and Quebec City will continue to outperform other markets next year after benefiting during the pandemic from Canadians travelling within the country due to COVID-19 restrictions on foreign travel.

A Niagara tour boat to the falls approaches the Horseshoe Falls in Niagara Falls, Ont. on Friday, July 16, 2021. A real estate report says Vancouver, Niagara Falls and Quebec City will continue to outperform other markets next year after benefiting during the pandemic from Canadians travelling within the country due to COVID-19 restrictions on foreign travel. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Peter Power

A real estate report says Vancouver, Niagara Falls and Quebec City will continue to outperform other markets next year after benefiting during the pandemic from Canadians travelling within the country due to COVID-19 restrictions on foreign travel.

CBRE says the three well-known destinations experienced increased domestic leisure traffic in 2021.

British Columbia saw more than 14 million overnight visits from Canadian travellers in 2021, compared with 13.5 million in 2019 before the pandemic.

The real estate firm is forecasting that Vancouver will outperform other Canadian markets in 2022 with occupancy projected to hit 55 per cent, average daily hotel rates to rise to $176 and revenue per available room (RevPar) to increase to $97 from $47 in 2020 but down from $175 in 2019.

Occupancy in Niagara Falls is expected to be the highest of any Canadian market at 59 per cent, more than double the pandemic low and down just eight percentage points from 2019. Rates and revenues are expected to further improve next year but remain below pre-pandemic levels.

Quebec City's occupancy of 55 per cent, rates and revenues are projected to be buoyed by meeting and conference travel in the second half of next year.

Resort destination location properties have seen the strongest RevPar bounce back in 2021, similar to what we saw in 2020, stated CBRE Hotels Director Nicole Nguyen.

While RevPar is still below their 2019 levels these markets are making great strides toward recovery.

CBRE says urban downtown hotels that have struggled during the pandemic will face a long road back to pre-pandemic numbers.

It is projecting that all 13 of Canadas major hotel markets will have RevPar under $100 in 2022, with Vancouver at $97, Montreal at $79 and Toronto at $78. The last time Canada saw all its major markets under $100 was in 2010, in the midst of the global financial crisis.

Overall RevPar is expected to increase 53 per cent to $72 next year but the recovery to pre-pandemic levels likely won't occur until 2025.

A more complete recovery in the industry will depend on the return of U.S. travellers and resurgence in business travel that is expected to start next spring.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2021.
OTTAWA - The world's wealthiest countries didn't meet a decade-old goal to provide the developing world with US$100 billion in climate aid by 2020 and won't actually get there for another two years, a new analysis showed Monday.

Federal Environment Minister Jonathan Wilkinson makes an announcement in Calgary, Alta., Tuesday, July 20, 2021.A decade-old goal to raise US$100 billion to help developing nations adapt to and mitigate against climate change is unlikely to be met for another two years.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

OTTAWA - The world's wealthiest countries didn't meet a decade-old goal to provide the developing world with US$100 billion in climate aid by 2020 and won't actually get there for another two years, a new analysis showed Monday.

The news is expected to cast a pall over next week's United Nations COP26 climate talks in Scotland. The meeting is meant to finalize the rule book for meeting the 2015 Paris climate change targets, and lay out more ambitious plans to slow global warming.

It was also supposed to start the talks to see developed countries go above the $100-billion-a-year mark in contributions after 2025 to help developing countries and small-island states meet, adapt to and mitigate against climate change.

Those nations are often the most impacted by climate change, but are the least responsible for the global emissions causing global warming to date. Many only agreed to join the Paris agreement in 2015 because of the climate finance pledge made by the wealthiest nations in the world.

Harjeet Singh, a senior adviser at Climate Change Action Network International, said climate finance is "fundamental" and the missed targets for aid are going to erode the trust between the developed world and everyone else.

"What has been delivered today is a delayed plan," he said in a media briefing Monday. "And then we expect developing countries to come up with a plan where they are going to change their policies for greener development. How can that happen?"

The climate finance plan outlined Monday is the result of a collaboration between Canadian Environment Minister Jonathan Wilkinson and Germany's state secretary for the environment, Jochen Flasbarth. The two were asked in July, by COP26 president designate Alok Sharma, to figure out exactly what the financing pledges are through to 2025.

Canada announced last spring it would double its climate aid to more than C$1 billion a year for the next five years, or about US$855 million. Germany announced it would increase its contribution by 50 per cent, to $6 billion euros, or about US$7.3 billion a year, by 2025.

Wilkinson and Flasbarth then spent the last three months wrangling new commitments out of other countries, and Flasbarth said "not all of our conversations were really seen to be polite."

New Zealand and Sweden are among the countries that responded with new pledges. Thus far Italy, hosting the G20 leaders' summit later this week, is the most notable on the list of countries that haven't yet increased their climate finance promise.

Flasbarth said he understands the disappointment developing nations have in the totals so far but believes the results of the recent efforts will allow for constructive progress in Glasgow.

The OECD concluded last month that climate finance reached almost US$80 billion in 2019, but was unlikely to get to $100 billion by the end of 2020. The actual results for 2020 won't be analyzed until next year, but Wilkinson and Flasbarth said it's already pretty clear the total didn't hit $100 billion.

They said with new contributions pledged in the last few months annual climate financing will get to about $97 billion next year, and finally hit $100 billion in 2023.

"It's disappointing that we didn't get there in 2020 but I think most people understood that we weren't (going to)," said Wilkinson in an interview with The Canadian Press.

"I think the positive part of this is we actually have a pathway to get there potentially in 2022, certainly in 2023 and the numbers go up in 2024 and 2025. That's actually a big step forward."

Sharma said Monday the higher amounts in 2024 and 2025 mean the total for the five years will be close to the $500 billion expected in that time frame.

The report also says a lack of private investments has been the biggest barrier to achieving the goal. Critics also say too much of the funding for climate finance has been in the form of loans, rather than grants, and not enough is flowing to the poorest countries.

Sharma, Flasbarth and Wilkinson acknowledged not meeting the 2020 goal has eroded trust between developed and developing countries in the world. But they say they hope this plan showing a path to get there will provide confidence.

"Today I think we are telling countries around the world that they can trust in the goals that we collectively established in the fight against climate change," Wilkinson said in a media event Monday morning. "This is a critical moment to deliver on a critical promise."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 25, 2021.
VANCOUVER - A British Columbia Supreme Court judge has ordered the return of items seized from Meng Wanzhou during the Huawei executive's arrest at Vancouver's airport over an extradition request from the United States.

Meng Wanzhou, front left, chief financial officer of Huawei, leaves B.C. Supreme Court during a break from her extradition hearing, in Vancouver, B.C., Wednesday, Aug. 18, 2021. A British Columbia Supreme Court judge has ordered the return of items seized from Meng Wanzhou during the Huawei executive's arrest at Vancouver's airport over the extradition request from United States. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck

VANCOUVER - A British Columbia Supreme Court judge has ordered the return of items seized from Meng Wanzhou during the Huawei executive's arrest at Vancouver's airport over an extradition request from the United States.

An order dated Oct. 21 and signed by Associate Chief Justice Heather Holmes says items taken by the RCMP during her Dec. 1, 2018, arrest must be returned.

The court document released to media lists a MacBook laptop, an iPad, a USB stick, an iPhone, a Huawei phone, SIM cards and a Chinese passport.

The order also directs the RCMP to destroy a handwritten note containing the passcodes to Meng's phones as well as photos of the note and of her device's serial numbers.

U.S. authorities accused Meng of lying to HSBC about Huawei's control of a subsidiary, putting the bank at risk of violating American sanctions against Iran.

Meng pleaded not guilty in a U.S. court in September after reaching a deferred prosecution agreement, the extradition request was dropped and she returned to China immediately.

The court heard during the extradition hearing in Vancouver that the passcodes to Meng's phones were improperly shared with the RCMP by an agent with the Canada Border Services Agency, forming part of an argument by Meng's lawyers that she was subjected to an abuse of process and the extradition request should be thrown out.

Lawyers for Canada's attorney general disagreed, arguing there had been no misconduct in the extradition case that would have justified a stay of proceedings.

Holmes had reserved her decision over Meng's extradition in August, around a month before Meng struck the deal that would allow for the charges against her to be dismissed after Dec. 1, 2022, provided she complies with certain obligations.

Two Canadians detained in China shortly after Meng was arrested, Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor, returned to Canada just as she was heading back to China.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 25, 2021.
OTTAWA - The Canadian government has quietly changed the criteria on its website for a special program for vulnerable Afghan refugees so that only those who have already managed to escape to other countries are eligible.

Taliban fighters stand guard after an explosion in Kabul, Afghanistan, Wednesday, Oct. 20, 2021. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Ahmad Halabisaz

OTTAWA - The Canadian government has quietly changed the criteria on its website for a special program for vulnerable Afghan refugees so that only those who have already managed to escape to other countries are eligible.

The online criteria for the "special humanitarian program" used to include Afghans "who are in Afghanistan or outside of Afghanistan," but it was changed this month to apply only to those "outside of Afghanistan."

The program is one of two set up to help bring 40,000 Afghan refugees to Canada and is intended for vulnerable groups including women leaders, persecuted religious or ethnic minorities, LGBTQ people and journalists.

The online criteria for the other program, which is aimed at interpreters and others who helped Canada during its military mission as well as embassy staff, still allows those inside Afghanistan to apply.

When the government first announced the special humanitarian program in August, it said it would apply to those outside Afghanistan, but it ultimately included those stuck inside the war-torn country in its online criteria.

Canada was the first country worldwide to launch a special pathway to Canada for women, girls, LGBTQ and targeted minorities in Afghanistan.

Groups working with Afghans trying to flee the country said the change to the program's eligibility criteria on Canada's official website would sow confusion and desperation among Afghans hoping to come to Canada.

It could drive Afghans to resort to people smugglers to get outside the country in order to qualify, they warned.

Alex Cohen, a spokesman for Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino, said Canada was "the first country in the world to announce a humanitarian program for Afghan refugees, which will see some 40,000 refugees start new lives in this country."

The humanitarian initiative, he said, requires refugees to have left their country of origin to be consistent with the 1951 UN Convention on Refugees.

He said the government is "adapting our programs to the evolving situation in Afghanistan, and have added a provision to enable two new partner organisations to refer exceptional cases of individuals who are inside Afghanistan."

"We regularly review IRCC's public communications to ensure they reflect our policies and provide the best possible information to applicants, and update them accordingly," he said. "The edit to our website was a communications change, not reflective of a policy shift."

Stephen Watt of Northern Lights Canada, a refugee organization, said the government's plan to bring 40,000 Afghans to Canada has been wrapped in secrecy ever since it was announced.

"There is still no clear way to apply to the program, or to discover who it is accepting or how it is operating," he said. "This is a life and death question for many of the people we are talking to within Afghanistan.

"Our government needs to come clean about its plans for these very vulnerable people who it promised to help in the heat of the election, and provide a clear path for providing that help. This isn't a time for empty promises and secret processes."

Canada ended its airlift mission from Kabul near the end of August as the U.S. was completing its own withdrawal from the country. Thousands of people with permission to travel to Canada were left behind  including Canadian citizens.

Since the Taliban seized control, it has been increasingly difficult to get people out.

Wendy Noury Long, director of the Afghan Interpreters Association, said she feared that government's change to its criteria, made in mid October, would drive desperate Afghans to go to extreme lengths to get out of the country so they qualify.

"People will be thinking how do I get out? Do I contact human smugglers? Countries are actively deporting people back to Afghanistan," she said.

"This is a policy change. This is the explanation of whether you qualify. You are taking a huge risk to try to get out to another country and you might find yourself deported back to Afghanistan."

The humanitarian program Canada set up to help Afghans at risk has strict eligibility criteria. To qualify, Afghans must also be a woman leader, a human rights advocate, a member of a persecuted religious or ethic minority, in the LGBTQ community, or a journalist or someone who has helped Canadian journalists. As of mid October, they must be located outside Afghanistan.

Those who fit these criteria need to register for refugee status through existing refugee programs, with the United Nations Refugee Agency or the government where they live, and wait to be referred. They can also be identified as eligible by a private sponsor.

Around 3,700 Canadians and Afghan refugees, including former interpreters, were airlifted out by Canada before the end of August.

Approximately 1,700 interpreters and other Afghans with papers to come to Canada are currently in safehouses in Kabul. Some safehouses, being run by an NGO and funded by veterans and private donations, face closure within weeks because of lack of funding.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 25, 2021.
MONTREAL - A coroner's inquest into a suburban Montreal long-term care home where 47 people died during the pandemic's first wave is hearing from a handful of witnesses this week before it concludes.

Plush toys and flowers are shown outside Residence Herron in the Montreal suburb of Dorval on May 10, 2020. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

MONTREAL - A coroner's inquest into a suburban Montreal long-term care home where 47 people died during the pandemic's first wave is hearing from a handful of witnesses this week before it concludes.

The inquiry into the Residence Herron was expected to finish in late September after hearing from the families of some of those who died.

But coroner Gehane Kamel decided to call additional witnesses this week because she said weeks of testimony had left her with too many unanswered questions.

The inquiry has heard that when health officials were called to help at the Dorval, Que., care home in late March 2020, they found patients in deplorable conditions.

But other witnesses have said health authorities did not move quickly enough to bring resources and help to the understaffed private care home, which has since closed.

Brigitte Auger, who was in charge of a program for seniors at the regional health authority, was sent to oversee Herron in late March. Testifying for the second time at the inquest, she said she didn't include Herron's owner, Samantha Chowieri, in discussions about care because she assumed the owner wasn't involved in that level of decision-making, but she said she never consciously cut her out.

Auger, who was among the first health officials dispatched to Herron, said at the time there were nine outbreaks in the region and the health authority had received 129 requests for assistance. "It was very, very difficult," she said, noting staff shortages were being felt everywhere.

"It's clear that if I had had more employees, I would have sent more," she added.

Part of the staffing issue was that many Herron employees weren't showing up, and there were no clinical supervisors on-site to help organize those who did. That improved several days later as more health authority staff were assigned to the care home.

But Auger took issue with the description of the reinforcements from the health authority as "managers," noting people showed up and immediately entered the fray.

You're talking about managers, but they are above all clinicians who were providing care," Auger said, saying they were feeding and hydrating residents and changing diapers.

Two other regional health authority officials are expected to take the stand on Tuesday, including CEO Lynne McVey, testifying for a second time.

The coroner's mandate is to investigate 53 deaths at six long-term care homes and one seniors residence during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 25, 2021.
OTTAWA - The Latest on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's announcement of his new team of cabinet ministers. All times eastern:

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Sophie Gregoire Trudeau arrive for the cabinet swearing-in ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa, Tuesday, Oct.26, 2021 THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld

OTTAWA - The Latest on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's announcement of his new team of cabinet ministers. All times eastern:

4:35 p.m.

Dominic LeBlanc, the minister of intergovernmental affairs, infrastructure and communities, is rejecting Alberta Premier Jason Kenney's effort to remove equalization from the Constitution.

Alberta's referendum on equalization shows almost 62 per cent of those who voted want to see the principle removed from the Constitution.

LeBlanc says Kenney chose to hold a non-binding referendum in a municipal election.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said Kenney knows the Constitution can't be changed unilaterally and needs the input of Ottawa working with seven provinces or territories representing more than 50 per cent of the population.

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4:15 p.m.

Defence Minister Anita Anand says she will bring the same determination to her new military portfolio as she did in getting the vaccines needed to protect Canadians from COVID-19.

Anand says her previous work leading Canada's procurement of vaccines shows her work ethic, and the determination she plans to bring to her mandate directing the Canadian Forces as it faces widespread allegations of sexual misconduct.

She says she wants to make sure all military members feel safe and protected, as they devote their lives to protecting Canadians.

She says she wants the Forces and the Department of National Defence to be well-respected.

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3:26 p.m.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he will lead the Liberal Party in the next federal election.

Trudeau answered with an emphatic "yes" when asked by a reporter whether he would do that at a news conference after he announced his new cabinet.

The reply sparked applause from his ministers who flanked him.

Questions about Trudeau's future have swirled since he failed to win a majority government in September's federal election, and instead won a second consecutive minority mandate.

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3:15 p.m.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says there is a "crisis in the culture" in the Canadian Armed Forces, and his new defence minister Anita Anand is the right person to address it.

Anand became only the second woman to be appointed as defence minister and will be tasked with dealing with sexual misconduct allegations in Canada's military.

Trudeau says that as Canada's "minister of vaccines," Anand has been extraordinarily effective in supporting Canada through a difficult COVID-19 pandemic as procurement minister.

He called Anand a world-class expert in governance, who will ensure the Forces are worthy of the men in women who serve in it.

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3:05 p.m.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says his team of familiar and new faces will deliver on real change.

Flanked by his new cabinet, Trudeau says the top-of-mind issue for Canadians is ending the pandemic for good.

He says the country is not out of the COVID-19 pandemic yet, despite high vaccination rates.

He says his government will move forward on legislation that specifically criminalizes harassment of health-care workers.

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1:45 p.m.

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh says it's remarkable to have a woman as minister of defence.

Anita Anand is Canada's second female defence minister, after Kim Campbell held the role in the 1990s, and Singh says it's important to highlight that.

But he says Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government has had six years to bring in independent oversight of the Canadian Armed Forces and its failure to do so is a "big problem."

Singh also called for immediate action on Indigenous justice and climate change, urging the government to "truly walk the path of justice" and "stop fighting Indigenous kids in court."

The government has until Friday to decide whether to appeal a Federal Court ruling involving compensation to First Nations children and their families for being removed by child-welfare services.

Singh welcomed the creation of a mental health and addictions minister, a position that will be held by Carolyn Bennett.

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12:07 p.m.

The Trudeau government now has a cabinet member from Alberta.

Randy Boissonnault has taken his oath of office as minister of tourism and associate minister of finance.

Boissonnault was elected in Edmonton Centre in 2015, defeated in 2019 and re-elected in the most recent federal election in September.

He was one of only two Liberals elected in the province after the party was shut out in 2019.

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11:50 a.m.

The procession of ministers being sworn in to new roles continues at Rideau Hall.

The ministers so far sworn in to new roles include Anita Anand as defence minister, Carolyn Bennett as mental health minister, Ahmed Hussen as minister of housing and diversity, Karina Gould as families minister and Seamus ORegan as labour minister.

Steven Guilbeault has also officially taken the reins at Environment, Mona Fortier as treasury board president and Marco Mendicino at Public Safety.

Most exchanged a couple words and an elbow bump with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Gov. Gen. Mary May Simon, but said little else aside from the oath of office in English and French.

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11:27 a.m.

Melanie Joly has been sworn in as Canada's new top diplomat.

Joly becomes the fifth foreign affairs minister in six years for Justin Trudeau, replacing Marc Garneau who is leaving cabinet.

Former defence minister Harjit Sajjan has moved to international development, replacing Karina Gould, who is becoming minister of families, children and social development.

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11:22 a.m.

Ministers are being sworn into new portfolios in the federal cabinet.

Carolyn Bennett has been sworn in to head a new ministry of mental health and addictions.

Marc Miller is taking up Bennett's former post at Crown-Indigenous Relations.

Former health minister Patty Hajdu takes over from Miller at Indigenous Services.

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10:58 a.m.

Heritage Minister Steven Guilbeault is taking over as Canada's environment minister.

He replaces Jonathan Wilkinson, who is moving to natural resources.

Three ministers have been dropped from cabinet, including Marc Garneau, who has been replaced as foreign affairs minister by Melanie Joly.

The new faces at the cabinet table will included former broadcaster and Toronto MP Marci Ien, Nova Scotia MP Sean Fraser, Edmonton MP Randy Boissonnault and Quebec MP and former union leader Pascale St-Onge.

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10:47 a.m.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is set to swear in a new larger cabinet of 39 ministers.

Trudeau has added nine new faces, dropped three and moved most other senior ministers to new posts with only 10 staying put.

Harjit Sajjan, heavily criticized for his handling of sexual misconduct allegations in Canada's military, is leaving the defence portfolio to take up a new post in international development.

He will be replaced by Anita Anand, who led the campaign to procure vaccines during the pandemic as public services and procurement minister. She becomes only the second woman to become defence minister.

---

10:15 a.m.

Nova Scotia MP Sean Fraser has arrived at Rideau Hall, solidifying speculation that he will be added to the Trudeau cabinet.

Fraser said it was a "great day" and he was looking forward to doing the work ahead.

Other arrivals included the current heritage minister, Steven Guilbeault, who is expected to be moving to the environment and climate change portfolio.

Treasury Board President Jean-Yves Duclos and Health Minister Patty Hadju are among the current serving ministers who have also arrived.

---

9:55 a.m.

Edmonton Centre MP Randy Boissonnault has arrived at Rideau Hall.

He was considered a shoo-in for cabinet as one of only two Liberals elected in Alberta in the last federal election.

Boissonnault was re-elected in September after being defeated in 2019.

He was first elected in 2015.

---

9:50 a.m.

A parade of Liberal cabinet hopefuls is arriving at Rideau Hall for today's cabinet announcement.

Cabinet ministers Karina Gould, Mona Fortier, Dominic LeBlanc and Filomena Tassi have arrived.

It will be clear soon whether those ministers will hold their current portfolios or be shuffled.

---

9:35 a.m.

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland has arrived at Rideau Hall for todays cabinet announcement.

Trudeau has said that Freeland will be remaining in her current portfolios.

Freeland was accompanied by family members.

She was followed by Montreal MP Pablo Rodriguez, who is currently serving as the government House leader.

---

9:26 a.m.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau have arrived at Rideau Hall.

Trudeau said there is a lot of hard work ahead and that he is excited about today.

Trudeau will soon be announcing his new lineup of cabinet ministers after winning a minority government in the September federal election.

Trudeau will be assembling a team that is intended to deliver on a half dozen priority commitments, including climate change, affordable housing and guiding Canada through the COVID-19 pandemic.

---

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2021.
WINDSOR, Que.  Two people remain trapped in the debris after a multi-storey scaffold collapsed overnight at a paper mill in Quebec's Eastern Townships.

Two people remain trapped in the debris after a multi-storey scaffold collapsed overnight at a paper mill in Quebec's Eastern Townships. A Domtar paper plant is shown in Windsor, Que., Thursday, January 6, 2011. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Graham Hughes

WINDSOR, Que.  Two people remain trapped in the debris after a multi-storey scaffold collapsed overnight at a paper mill in Quebec's Eastern Townships.

Company officials and provincial police said they had no new information about the status of the two workers and that rescue operations remain ongoing late Tuesday afternoon.

Sylvain Bricault, the manager of the Domtar mill in Windsor, Que., told reporters that the scaffold spanned the height of the factory and that a portion of it collapsed.

"So we are talking about a significant amount of material," he said at a press conference.

"Currently, we are not in contact with the workers, we're doing everything we can to rescue them as quickly as possible," he said.

Bricault said the trapped workers are not Domtar employees and work for a contracting company that was doing major work at the factory.

Earlier in the day, Bricault said another worker was injured in the collapse and was transported to hospital, but his life is not in danger.

The incident took place at around 1:35 a.m. Tuesday.

The mill's emergency team, provincial police, local firefighters and firefighters from Sherbrooke, Que., are participating in the rescue operation, the company said in a statement.

The company said it is co-operating with provincial police and workplace health and safety board investigators.

The incident took place in the pulping section of the mill and all work has stopped in that part of the facility.

Several other people were in and around the scaffolding when the collapse took place and were able to get out with assistance, Bricault said, adding that they received psychological treatment.

Other workers who were in the area also received psychological treatment, he said, adding that support will be offered to other workers and their families.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 26, 2021.
OTTAWA  The Trudeau government has diminished Prairies representation in federal cabinet, removing Manitoba MP Jim Carr while signalling a more aggressive climate-change agenda.

OTTAWA  The Trudeau government has diminished Prairies representation in federal cabinet, removing Manitoba MP Jim Carr while signalling a more aggressive climate-change agenda.

"We have lost out, as a province," Royce Koop, a political scientist at the University of Manitoba, said in the wake of Tuesday's announcement.

Winnipeg MP Dan Vandal (Saint BonifaceSaint Vital) has retained only a minor cabinet post, as has the only Alberta minister named in a shuffle following last month's election.

"I do have concerns about the absence of a real, senior portfolio minister from Manitoba, or the Prairies as a whole," Koop said, noting there are now 39 ministers, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

Carr (Winnipeg South Centre) has been a cabinet minister since Trudeau first led government in 2015, including as Carr recovered from a blood cancer.

In an interview, Carr said his health was good enough to take on a cabinet role.

Vandal remains northern affairs minister but with added responsibility as the lead for the granting agency Prairies Economic Development Canada and its equivalent for the territories. Those roles were all taken from previous cabinet postings, covering Indigenous and northern affairs, as well as economic development writ large.

Winnipeg South Centre MP Jim Carr had been a cabinet minister since 2015. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press files)

Vandal is now the only cabinet minister from Manitoba; the Liberals have four seats in the province.

Carr had served as Trudeau's special representative for the Prairies since 2019, as he underwent cancer treatment. Before that, he served as the minister overseeing energy and non-U.S. trade  two complex files.

"Even people that were not Liberals would recognize that he had a real voice at the cabinet table," Koop said.

To that end, Conservative MP James Bezan (SelkirkInterlakeEastman) said the federal cabinet should have a Manitoban in a senior role and that has been the practice regardless of whether the Tories or Liberals were in power.

"I would hope that somebody would've been put on the front bench, in a major portfolio, from Manitoba," said Bezan.

The western separation movement and feelings of isolation from Ottawa persist in his riding and across the Prairies, even if there aren't ongoing protests, he said.

The only other Prairies voice in cabinet will be Edmonton MP Randy Boissonnault, who was named to junior post of tourism minister.

Bezan pondered neither Vandal nor Boissonnault will be named to the powerful cabinet committee that sets government priorities.

Dan Vandal (centre) is greeted by by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (left) and Gov. Gen. Mary May Simon (right) at the swearing-in ceremony Tuesday in Ottawa. (Adrian Wyld / The Canadian Press)

"We have a prime minister that doesn't care about Western Canada," Bezan argued.

Vandal disagreed: "Nothing can be further from the truth," he said Tuesday.

While Vandal didn't contest his role won't be on the front bench, the Liberals demonstrated they care about the region by boosting funding and staffing for a granting agency, which he'll now oversee, he said,

"For the first time, the economic development strategy for the Prairies, which we've worked a long time to achieve, is going to be centred in Winnipeg."

Carr told the Free Press it's up to Trudeau to decide who is in cabinet and who makes the front bench.

"The prime minister has the vista of the entire country, and the pool of talent available to him, and he makes those decisions," said Carr. "These are the decisions that he has made; I don't second-guess them."

At a news conference, Trudeau refused to give a rationale for removing Carr and now former foreign minister Marc Garneau, instead saying he was excited about his new team.

Carr was reflective Tuesday, saying he was grateful to represent Canada abroad and the region at the cabinet table, while adding he will continue representing his riding.

The Liberals are breaking a tradition of having someone from Manitoba in a senior role, regardless of the party in government, says Conservative MP James Bezan. (Adrian Wyld / The Canadian Press files)

"These moments are significant. The way I'm built is I look at the next opportunity and, in my case, other ways I can serve my country... That's what I intend to do," he said.

Trudeau will have to be careful in how his government handles issues disproportionately impacting western provinces, such as COVID-19 hospitalizations and transitioning away from fossil fuels, Koop said.

"He could have appointed maybe a second minister from Manitoba, where there are more choices, and could have addressed this question of whether the Prairies are not being adequately represented in cabinet," he said.

Trudeau has appointed longtime Quebec climate-change activist Steven Guilbeault as environment minister. The Montreal MP scaled the CN Tower in Toronto as part of a Greenpeace protest in 2001.

Guilbeault said Tuesday Canada must be more ambitious while not leaving regions behind; Bezan countered the appointment was a bad sign for the oil sector.

"There are too many inexperienced people with certain ideologies, which will work against the economic recovery that we need after the pandemic," the Manitoba MP said.

Guilbeault had served as Trudeaus heritage minister before this years election, where his unclear messaging around regulating online content and social media drew ire from the opposition.

As environment minister, he replaces Vancouver MP Jonathan Wilkinson, who takes over as energy minister, overseeing subsidies and grants for both the oil sector and green vehicles, through Natural Resources Canada.

Wilkinson hails from Saskatchewan, where the Liberals failed to win a single seat in the 2019 and 2021 elections.

dylan.robertson@freepress.mb.ca
The Manitoba police watchdog is investigating after a 30-year-old man, who was armed with a knife, was seriously injured when shot at close range by a Thompson RCMP officer Monday.

The Manitoba police watchdog is investigating after a 30-year-old man, who was armed with a knife, was seriously injured when shot at close range by a Thompson RCMP officer Monday.

RCMP issued a news release after video of the shooting had already been posted online to Facebook.

An officer encountered a man armed with a knife while on Princeton Drive to serve legal documents around 2:45 p.m., according to the release.

A man in a red shirt can be seen walking toward the officer, who keeps backing away from him. After the gun is fired, the man takes a couple of steps, grabs his chest and falls to the ground.

The man was taken to hospital with a "serious injury," police say.

Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak, which represents the province's northern First Nations chiefs, issued a statement calling the incident "extremely disturbing."

"My office has been in touch with the Thompson RCMP and we are expecting a full report about what took place today in Thompson," Grand Chief Garrison Settee said in a statement.

"We are praying that the young person involved in this incident will survive and receive the support needed to heal from this."

The Thompson Citizen reported Princeton Drive was cordoned off and multiple officers were at the scene.
Restrictions on retail shopping and enhanced COVID-19 quarantine measures are being lifted in some rural Manitoba communities as the province moved to extend current public-health orders for another three weeks.

Restrictions on retail shopping and enhanced COVID-19 quarantine measures are being lifted in some rural Manitoba communities as the province moved to extend current public-health orders for another three weeks.

The Town of Niverville and municipalities of Cartier, Headingley, Macdonald, Ritchot, St. Francois Xavier and Tache will no longer be subject to the retail capacity restrictions and tightened self-isolation requirements in the Southern Health-Sante Sud region as of Tuesday, said Chief provincial public health officer Dr. Brent Roussin.

The decision to exempt the communities from restrictions placed on Southern Health was based on proximity to Winnipeg and stronger vaccination rates, Roussin said Monday.

"We included these municipalities in the capital region in wave 2, when we had Winnipeg in the red-restricted level. It makes sense to include them once again in the Winnipeg definition," he said.

Enhanced public-health orders for Southern Health, which were introduced Oct. 5 and tightened after Thanksgiving, will remain in effect throughout the rest of the region. The region had a vaccine uptake rate of 67.8 per cent as of Monday. The restrictions reduce retail capacity to 50 per cent and require anyone who lives with someone who has symptoms of COVID-19 or who was a close contact of someone with COVID-19 to self-isolate.

Niverville Mayor Myron Dyck said he was grateful to see the provinces top doctor change the order to exempt his town from the retail restrictions.

Dyck said he spoke with Roussin and other provincial officials last week and argued for his community, which has a vaccination rate of 83.4 per cent, to be exempt from the restrictions placed on Southern Health.

"To have a vaccination rate like we do, it felt like it didn't matter when were told, 'Well, youre in with the rest of Southern Health.' So this now gives credibility saying it does matter," he said.

"If the province wants municipal leaders to be an advocate on behalf of vaccination, to incentivize people, you need to give us that authority to do so. And when we have a high vaccination rate, and then you still lump us in with those that have low vaccination rates, it makes it appear that it doesnt matter."

Headingley Mayor John Mauseth also welcomed the news his community would be able to benefit from higher immunization levels.

"We were looking for some sort of consistency here. Based on the fact that our numbers are more in line with the city of Winnipeg, I think it was the appropriate call," he said.

All other pre-existing public-health orders remain in effect and will be reviewed ahead of Nov. 16, when the order is set to expire, Roussin said.

The province said 334 new infections were confirmed since its last update Friday, including 107 cases Saturday, 149 Sunday and 78 Monday. The five-day test-positivity rate was 3.9 per cent provincially and 1.7 per cent in Winnipeg, and 2,130 tests were performed Sunday.

Patient flow is a priority for the government, says Health Minister Audrey Gordon. (Mike Deal / Winnipeg Free Press) MIKE DEAL / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Health and Seniors Care Minister Audrey Gordon, Dr. Brent Roussin, chief provincial public health officer, along with virtual participant, Central Services Minister Reg Helwer during Monday's COVID-19 update press conference at the Manitoba Legislative building, talk about the Federal Pan-Canadian proof of vaccination that the province is joining. 211025 - Monday, October 25, 2021.

Public health continues to see a high number of cases in the Southern Health region and isolated outbreaks in the North, though the virus is spreading in all regions, Roussin said.

Infections from Thanksgiving gatherings will also start showing up around this time, he noted.

"We saw a day on the weekend there with nearly 150 reported cases, so thats higher than what weve typically seen, so were going to have to continue to follow those trends. Were certainly not done with this fourth wave," Roussin said.

Manitobas pandemic death toll rose to 1,237 after two people died over the weekend; a man in his 70s from the Southern Health region and a man in his 80s from the Interlake-Eastern health region, both linked to unspecified variants.

A total of 83 patients were being treated for COVID-19 in hospital, including 20 in intensive care.

As of Monday, two acute-care patients had been transferred to another Manitoba facility in order to maintain capacity for non-urgent surgeries and diagnostics at high-acuity hospitals in Winnipeg, Shared Health said.

Under a new protocol triggered last week, Shared Health will transfer stable patients, primarily from high-acuity sites in Winnipeg, to facilities in rural and northern Manitoba that have capacity and staff.

"We recognize this can be unsettling and disruptive, and we will do our best to communicate plans as soon as they are made and to support patients and families through the process," Shared Health said in a statement. "Clinical teams are carefully matching the care needs of any patient identified as appropriate for transport, with the services and skilled staff at the receiving site."

Patient flow is a priority for the government and the health-care system is ensuring people "are at the right place, the right time and for the right amount of time," Health Minister Audrey Gordon said.

"That is very much a focus of the system right now, to ensure patient flow is occurring, so that were moving individuals out of our acute-care hospitals and making room in the event that we need the space in the ICU," she said.

Also Monday, public health declared three new COVID-19 outbreaks.

Springs Christian Academys Lagimodiere campus, Benito Personal Care Home and Light of the North Covenant Church in Thompson have been moved to red-critical on the province's pandemic response system.

According to the province, 13 cases have been reported at Springs Christian Academys Lagimodiere campus. The school's Youville campus is also in a declared outbreak.

Ten cases have been detected at the Benito Personal Care Home, including one staff member and nine residents.

danielle.dasilva@freepress.mb.ca
The execution-style slaying of 20-year-old Rig Moulebou was driven by the most understandable of motives  revenge  a jury has heard.

The execution-style slaying of 20-year-old Rig Moulebou was driven by the most "understandable" of motives  revenge  a jury has heard.

Javaid Wahabi, Abdullahi Mohamed and Munachehr Haroon are on trial, charged with first-degree murder in the Nov. 4, 2019, attack in Winnipeg.

Rig Moulebou shot and killed a man inside Citizen Nightclub days before he was murdered. (Twitter) Rig Debak Moulebou, 20, was shot and killed at a rental property at 25 Tim Sale Dr. in Winnipeg on Nov. 4, 2019.

"This case is about revenge," Crown attorney Chris Vanderhooft told jurors in an opening address Monday. "The killing of Rig Moulebou occurred because of that very understandable response: to hurt someone in return for being hurt by that person."

Two days before he was killed, Moulebou fatally shot 23-year-old Jamshaid Wahabi  Javaid Wahabis brother  inside Citizen Nightclub, Vanderhooft told jurors. While Moulebou died before he could be charged, both the prosecution and defence accept as fact Moulebou was the killer.

Javaid Wahabi and others immediately began searching for Moulebou and found him two days later staying at an online residential rental property on Tim Sale Drive, Vanderhooft alleged.

The three accused "then plotted and carried out their vengeance quickly and efficiently," Vanderhooft said.

"Their actions are entirely understandable  and also criminal. They took matters into their own hands and became judge, jury and executioner," he said.

Prosecutors allege Wahabi orchestrated the killing, while Mohamed and Haroon carried it out, forcing their way into the rental residence and shooting Moulebou at close range as he slept.

"(Moulebou) probably never even knew they were there," the Crown lawyer said.

Jurors are expected to hear evidence from a woman who left the residence just as the two accused shooters forced their way inside.

The woman was waiting for a friend to pick her up when one-time accused Arnold Nduta arrived at the door and two masked men pushed their way inside, Vanderhooft said. Nduta took the woman to a waiting car as she heard gunfire inside the residence.

Nduta was originally charged with murder but the charge was stayed after he was granted immunity in return for his testimony, Vanderhooft told jurors.

Evidence against the three accused will also include intercepted cellphone conversations and cell tower transmissions showing their locations at the time of the killing, Vanderhooft said.

The trial is set for 3 1/2 weeks.

dean.pritchard@freepress.mb.ca
GREENBELT, Md.  Terrorism sentencing enhancements will be applied in the case of Patrik Mathews  a neo-Nazi and disgraced Canadian reservist  and his co-conspirator, Brian Lemley Jr., a federal judge ruled in a Maryland courtroom Monday.

GREENBELT, Md.  Terrorism sentencing enhancements will be applied in the case of Patrik Mathews  a neo-Nazi and disgraced Canadian reservist  and his co-conspirator, Brian Lemley Jr., a federal judge ruled in a Maryland courtroom Monday.

The ruling means Mathews and Lemley, who plotted to murder federal law-enforcement and other civic figures during a charged pro-gun rights rally in Richmond, Va., in January 2020, will likely spend years, not months, in U.S. federal prison.

The two men will learn their fates during a sentencing hearing Thursday.

Patrik Mathews as a Master Cpl. in the Army Reserves in 2015.

Mathews fled Canada in August 2019 after the Winnipeg Free Press exposed him as an active military combat engineer moonlighting as a recruiter for a violent neo-Nazi paramilitary group called the Base.

After illegally crossing into the U.S., Mathews was provided safe harbour by Lemley and other neo-Nazi comrades. The two men amassed weapons and supplies while hatching various plots for white-supremacist violence.

Unbeknownst to them, the highest levels of U.S. law enforcement had them under investigation, sending in an undercover FBI agent and setting up around-the-clock audio and video surveillance of the mens shared Delaware apartment.

The men have been in custody since their arrest in Newark, Del., on Jan. 16, 2020, just days before law enforcement believed they planned to drive to Richmond to commit acts of terror. They pleaded guilty to various felonies on June 11 of this year.

Mondays hearing was the first time Mathews and Lemleys families were in attendance during court proceedings  at least at any of the hearings the Free Press has covered in person.

Homegrown hate: Coverage of a neo-Nazi recruiter in Winnipeg Click to Expand Posted: 11:56 AM Sep. 13, 2019 Read Ryan Thorpe's story on infiltrating a neo-Nazi paramilitary group, and the Free Press' follow-up coverage. Read Full Story

Mathews father waved to his son as he was led into the courtroom in an orange prison jumpsuit; soon after, his mother entered the court, leaning forward in her seat, looking intently at her son throughout much of the day.

Shortly before the hearing began, prosecuting attorney Thomas Windom and various FBI case agents were busy displaying evidence on a table in the courtroom. Later, an FBI agent would be sworn in to go through the evidence item by item.

The evidence  seized from the pairs apartment  included a "sniper rifle," a homemade "assault-style rifle" (or "ghost gun"), a night-vision scope, a thermal-imaging scope, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, tactical gear, various supplies and neo-Nazi propaganda.

While the men were not charged  and did not plead guilty to  federal terrorism offences, Windom told Judge Theodore Chuang that Mathews and Lemley should receive stiffer sentences because their crimes were committed with the "intent" to promote an act of terror.

The prosecution is seeking a sentence of 25 years for both men  minus time already served. There is no parole in the U.S. federal prison system.

Windom pushed back against the contention  repeatedly raised by the defence attorneys  that Mathews and Lemleys conduct amounted to "rambling" and "idle chatter," arguing instead that the two men had every intention of perpetrating mass violence.

Lemleys defence team  led by public defender Ned Smock  responded to Windoms arguments. He said he did not deny Lemley and Mathews had committed criminal offences and that law enforcement was right to investigate and arrest them.

(Brian Mark) Lemley (driving) and (Patrik) Mathews (in the passenger seat) driving through the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel near Norfolk, Virginia in September, 2019.

Nevertheless, Smock said the requested terrorism sentencing enhancements were disproportionate to the facts in the case.

"The consequences of what were talking about here are enormous," Smock said, referencing the request for a 25-year prison sentence.

Smock pointed to the fact that Lemley and Mathews had served in their countrys respective militaries  Mathews as a reservist, and Lemley as a veteran of the Iraq War, who was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder following a 15-month deployment.

During this dark period of Lemleys life, Smock said, the veteran spiralled into a "black hole of conspiracy theories." He claimed the various plots picked up via CCTV surveillance were "stream of consciousness" hypothetical discussions disconnected from reality.

The consequences of what were talking about here are enormous."  Public defender Ned Smock

"The discussions were going nowhere," Smock said, adding that an undercover FBI agent who infiltrated the Base was "goading them along" and "pressing" Mathews and Lemley to make incriminating statements during the probe.

In response to this claim, Windom shot back: "We heard the (undercover agent) coaxed and cajoled them.... We never heard that he entrapped."

Joseph Balter, Mathews defence attorney, began his address by pointing out that America is a much different place in October 2021 than it was in January 2020 when the two men were arrested. He repeatedly mentioned the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol during his statement.

"Our country is becoming much more polarized. The level of rhetoric on a political level is becoming much more ramped up," Balter said.

He said the duo should be punished for "what they did, not what they said"  a frequent defence tactic from him throughout the case, arguing that their plotting was protected speech under the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

He pointed to the sentences for many of the U.S. Capitol rioters, saying their actions were far worse than Mathews and Lemleys, yet many have received shorter sentences than what the prosecution is seeking in this case.

Balter concluded his remarks by saying that Mathews and Lemleys various conversations captured by CCTV surveillance amounted to "aspirational talk, as opposed to operational talk."

Chuang ultimately sided with the prosecution on all points of contention, applying the two terrorism sentencing enhancements Windom was seeking to have imposed. The ruling is likely to significantly lengthen the amount of time the two men spend in federal prison.

"The defence argues this was just talk. These were ideas. But when one listens to the tapes... its clear the defendants were serious, specific and calculating in the violence they intended to (commit)," Chuang said.

"They were not wide-eyed neophytes being pressured into acts by the undercover... (They were) ready, willing and able to move forward with the terroristic night operations theyd discussed."

Nevertheless, Chuang said he remained open to arguments on how long Mathews and Lemley should be in prison.

ryan.thorpe@freepress.mb.ca

Twitter: @rk_thorpe
KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukraine reported another record daily number of COVID-19 deaths Tuesday as vaccinations in the nation of 41 million people lags.

A train conductor checks the Covid Certificate of passengers, at a train station in Kyiv, Ukraine, Ukraine, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. Coronavirus infections and deaths in Ukraine have surged to all-time highs amid a laggard pace of vaccination, which is one of the lowest in Europe. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky)

KYIV, Ukraine (AP)  Ukraine reported another record daily number of COVID-19 deaths Tuesday as vaccinations in the nation of 41 million people lags.

Ukraine's Health Ministry registered 734 deaths in 24 hours, raising the country's pandemic death toll to 64,936.

Ukrainians can freely choose between the Pfizer-BioNTech, Moderna, AstraZeneca and Sinovac vaccines, but just about 16% of the population has been fully vaccinated, Europe's second-lowest rate after Armenia.

The government has responded to a steady rise in confirmed cases and deaths in recent weeks by tightening restrictions. Starting last Thursday, proof of vaccination against the coronavirus or a negative test was required to board planes, trains and long-distance buses.

On Tuesday, Enerhodar in southeastern Ukraine became the first Ukrainian city to halt public transportation due to the number of drivers refusing to get vaccinated as required by city authorities.

Amid the travel restriction, a black market for counterfeit vaccination certificates has blossomed, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to hold a meeting last week on ways to uproot the illegal practice.

To encourage more people to get vaccinated, authorities have started offering shots in shopping malls. Health Minister Viktor Lyashko said Tuesday that Ukraine now is giving about 250,000 jabs a day, which is he said is the same number previously administered in a month.

Lyashko acknowledged that widespread vaccine hesitancy remained a challenge. About half of Ukraine's medical workers have been reluctant to get immunized, he said.

___

Follow AP's pandemic coverage at: https://apnews.com/hub/coronavirus-pandemic
CAIRO (AP)  Sudan's deposed prime minister and his wife were allowed to return home Tuesday, a day after they were detained when the military seized power in a coup, according to a statement issued by his office.

FILE - In this Wednesday, Aug. 21, 2019 file photo, Sudan's Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok speaks during a news conference in Khartoum, Sudan.Sudan's information ministry says the country's interim prime minister Hamdok and a number of senior government officials have been arrested. The ministry described ctions as a military coup, Monday, Oct 25, 2021. (AP Photo, File)

CAIRO (AP)  Sudan's deposed prime minister and his wife were allowed to return home Tuesday, a day after they were detained when the military seized power in a coup, according to a statement issued by his office.

The release of Prime Minister Abdallah Hamdok and his wife followed international condemnation of the coup and calls for the military to release all the government officials who were detained when Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan seized power on Monday.

The statement by Hamdoks office said other government officials remained in detention, their locations unknown. The deposed prime minister and his wife were under heavy security at home in the upscale Kafouri neighborhood of the capital Khartoum, said a military official, speaking on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to brief the media. The official did not say whether they were free to leave or make calls.

Earlier in the day, Burhan said Hamdok had been held for his own safety and would be released. But he warned that other members of the dissolved government could face trial as protests against the putsch continued in the streets.

The military seized power in a move that was widely denounced abroad. On Tuesday, pro-democracy demonstrators blocked roads in the capital with makeshift barricades and burning tires. Troops fired on crowds a day earlier, killing four protesters, according to doctors.

In this frame taken from video, the head of the military, Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, announced in a televised address, that he was dissolving the country's ruling Sovereign Council, as well as the government led by Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. Burhan said the military will run the country until elections in 2023. His announcement came hours after his forces arrested the acting prime minister and other senior government officials. (Sudan TV via AP)

In his second public appearance since seizing power, Burhan said the military was forced to step in to resolve a growing political crisis.

There were people who were talking about discriminating against others, and that was driving this country to reach a civil war that would lead to the fragmentation of this country, tearing apart its unity, its fabric and society. These dangers were in front of us, Burhan told a televised news conference.

But the coup came less than a month before Burhan was supposed to hand the leadership of the Sovereign Council that runs the country to a civilian  a step that would have decreased the militarys hold on power.

Pro-democracy protesters flash the victory sign as they take to the streets to condemn a takeover by military officials, in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday Oct. 25, 2021. Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the acting prime minister and other officials. The takeover comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was expected to hand the leadership of the council that runs the African country over to civilians. (AP Photo/Ashraf Idris)

The whole country was deadlocked due to political rivalries, Burhan said. The experience during the past two years has proven that the participation of political forces in the transitional period is flawed and stirs up strife.

Hamdok had been held at Burhans home, the general said, and was in good health. But of the many other senior government officials detained Monday, Burhan alleged that some tried to incite a rebellion within the armed forces, saying they would face trial. Others who are found innocent would be freed, he added.

The takeover came after weeks of mounting tensions between military and civilian leaders over the course and pace of Sudans transition to democracy. It threatened to derail that process, which has progressed in fits and starts since the overthrow of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising two years ago.

Pro-democracy protesters use fires to block streets to condemn a takeover by military officials in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday Oct. 25, 2021. Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the acting prime minister and other officials. The takeover comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was expected to hand the leadership of the council that runs the African country over to civilians. (AP Photo/Ashraf Idris)

At an emergency meeting of the U.N. Security Council on Tuesday, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged world powers to unite to confront a recent epidemic of coups detat. But the U.N.s most powerful body took no action during the closed-door consultations about Sudan, a nation in Africa linked by language and culture to the Arab world.

Hamdoks office had voiced concern for his safety and for the other detained officials. In a statement, the office accused military leaders of acting in concert with Islamists, who have argued for a military government, and other politicians linked to the now-dissolved National Congress Party, which dominated Sudan during al-Bashir's Islamist-backed rule.

U.S. President Joe Bidens administration announced the halt of $700 million in emergency assistance to Sudan and said Tuesday it was looking at sending stronger signals to the generals.

Thousands of pro-democracy protesters take to the streets to condemn a takeover by military officials in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday Oct. 25, 2021. Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the acting prime minister and other officials. The takeover comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was expected to hand the leadership of the council that runs the African country over to civilians. (AP Photo/Ashraf Idris)

They should first and foremost cease any violence against innocent civilians, and ... they should release those who have been detained and they should get back on a democratic path, said Jake Sullivan, the administration's national security adviser.

Mariam al-Mahdi, the foreign minister in the dissolved government, declared Tuesday that she and other members of Hamdok's administration remained the legitimate authority in Sudan.

We are still in our positions. We reject such coup and such unconstitutional measures, she told The Associated Press by phone from her home in Khartoum. We will continue our peaceful disobedience and resistance.

Pro-democracy protesters take to the streets to condemn a takeover by military officials in Khartoum, Sudan, Monday Oct. 25, 2021. Sudans military seized power Monday, dissolving the transitional government hours after troops arrested the acting prime minister and other officials. The takeover comes more than two years after protesters forced the ouster of longtime autocrat Omar al-Bashir and just weeks before the military was expected to hand the leadership of the council that runs the African country over to civilians. (AP Photo/Ashraf Idris)

The Ministry of Culture and Information, still loyal to the deposed government, said in a Facebook post that Sudanese ambassadors in Belgium, Switzerland and France have defected.

Nureldin Satti, the Sudanese envoy to the U.S., said he was working with those diplomats to resist the military coup in support of the heroic struggle of the Sudanese people to achieve the aims of the uprising against al-Bashir. But he did not specify whether he, too, had defected.

Al-Mahdi, meanwhile, spoke to the wife of one of the officials detained, Minister of Cabinet Affairs Khalid Omar, and said he was humiliated and mistreated during his arrest.

A protester is given medical treatment following mass demonstrations a day after the military seized power in a move widely denounced by the international community, at a hospital in Berry, East Khartoum, Sudan, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. At least four people were killed and over 80 wounded when security forces opened fire on protesters, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee. Pro-democracy protesters took to the streets again Tuesday, blocking roads in the capital with makeshift barricades and burning tires. (AP Photo)

Military forces "took Khalid barefoot, wearing only his nightclothes, she said.

Hours after the arrests, Sudanese flooded the streets of Khartoum and other cities in protest. At least four people were killed and over 80 wounded when security forces opened fire, according to the Sudan Doctors Committee. Human Rights Watch said forces used live ammunition against the demonstrators.

Sudan saw a bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protests in 2019, and there were fears about whether there would be another crackdown. A bigger test of how the military will respond to the resistance could come Saturday when protesters plan a mass march to demand a return to civilian rule.

People set up a barricade during a protest a day after the military seized power Khartoum, Sudan, Tuesday, Oct. 26, 2021. The takeover came after weeks of mounting tensions between military and civilian leaders over the course and the pace of Sudan's transition to democracy. (AP Photo/Marwan Ali)

The Sudanese Professionals Association, a group of unions that was behind the uprising against al-Bashir, also urged people to go on strike and engage in civil disobedience. Separately, the Sudan Popular Liberation MovementNorth, the countrys main rebel group, denounced the coup and called for people to take to the streets.

In a sign of the divisions among the civilian leaders in Sudan, a group known as the Justice and Equality Movement blamed the deposed government for the military takeover. It said a few officials had monopolized decision-making and refused to engage in dialogue.

The group, headed by Finance Minister Gibreil Ibrahim, is the first to publicly voice support for the military but also urged it to end the state of emergency, release the detainees and appoint a civilian government to run day-to-day activities. Earlier this month, the group had taken part in a pro-military sit-in in Khartoum.

Another pro-military group that splintered from the protest movement that ousted al-Bashir also welcomed the takeover, saying it would end a sit-in it had organized outside the presidential palace to support the generals earlier this month.

The military has sent mixed signals about Sudan's future. Burhan promised to gradually restore internet and communications services that were disrupted in the coup. But the Civil Aviation Authority said it was suspending all flights to and from Khartoum's airport until Oct. 30.

Following the coup, Burhan now heads a military council that he said would rule Sudan until elections in July 2023.
Habitat for Humanity La Crosse Area has announced the search for a homeowner for its home to be built in Trempealeau County.

Partnering with the City of Arcadia, Habitat for Humanity was able to purchase a vacant lot on Wilson Avenue. Plans for the home are under development and construction will begin in Spring 2022.

Executive Director, Kahya Fox said, Its amazing to begin connecting with a new community. Everyone in Arcadia and Trempealeau County have been supportive. We have a dedicated group of citizens who will be instrumental in constructing the first Habitat home in Trempealeau County.

Habitat is accepting applications for its Homeowner Program through Friday, November 19. Habitat will also host Homeowner Informational sessions on Thursday, October 28 at 5 p.m. and Saturday, October 30 at 10 a.m. at the Ashley Conference Room at the Wanek Center in Arcadia.

For more information about the Homeowner Program, to download the application packet, or to sign up for the Informational sessions, visit www.habitatlacrosse.org.

After the future homeowner is selected, Habitat will start working with the community to organize volunteers and schedule events leading up to the official groundbreaking for the new home.

We will be in Arcadia throughout the summer and into the fall, says Construction Manager, Jeremy Reed. We will need a lot of help from the community to build this home,

Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that partners with homeowners and the community to build simple, decent, and affordable housing. For more information, to become a volunteer, or to make a donation, visit its website or or call 608-785-2373.

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Winona, MN (55987)

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Partly cloudy early with increasing clouds overnight. Low 28F. Winds light and variable.
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Just send me a list of everything you need instead of one thing at a time, Cannon said. Itd be easier if, you know, Heres a list of 20 things we need from you. Send it to us. As opposed to OK, you checked off box no. 1, box no. 2 is this. Its been real frustrating from our end.

The estimated cost of the scope of the work is more than $10 million. The project was approved in 2019 after a campaign from residents to approve work on the building, which hadnt been updated since 1982. Remaining funding had to be raised by organizers.

Planners received the final push they needed after a $2.5 million donation was given to the project in October 2019 by Juanita Schadde in honor of her late husbands family legacy of longtime business owners in the city, operating Schadde Plumbing and Heating since the early 1980s. The name change requested by Schadde also acknowledges the philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, who granted $15,000 to the original construction of the Baraboo library in 1902 and influenced the design of the building.

Work was set to begin in April, but was delayed by requests for studies and documents by the USDA. Library Director Jessica Bergin said in late June that work would move forward, just not on the timeline they anticipated and asserted that the project would happen.
JUNEAU  A 25-year-old Carlisle, Pennsylvania, man was sentenced Tuesday to 22 years in prison for sexually assaulting two Reeseville girls while he was staying with the family several years ago.

Steven Barlow was found guilty in August of two felony counts of first degree child sexual assault. He appeared before Dodge County Circuit Court Judge Brian Pfitzinger on Tuesday who sentenced Barlow to 22 years of prison followed by 12 years of extended supervision.

The parents of the child victims tried to help the defendant by letting him move into their home, and he repaid their generosity by sexually assaulting their children in complete violation of the trust that had been placed in him, Dodge County Assistant District Attorney Yolanda Tienstra said in a press release from the Dodge County Sheriffs Office.

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According to the criminal complaint, the mother of the children called the sheriffs office the summer of 2018 reporting that her daughters, ages 6 and 7, had been sexually assaulted. The woman told an investigator that her 7-year-old daughter had told her about the abuse.

The mother then spoke to her 6-year-old daughter, who also said she had been abused by Barlow. The mother said it would have happened about two years previously when Barlow was in the area.
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Runoff to the nearby creek could also threatens local wells with nitrate contamination, according to Cypert.

I would think the state would want to lead us in efforts to protect the environment, and this would give them the opportunity to do that, said Cypert.

According to John Beard, Director of Communications for the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, DOC will be creating/planting a vegetative barrier in the buffer zone between the institution and the property. For the vegetative barrier to be most effective, the vegetation should be approximately 12-inches high. Any cutting of the grass or planting of trees in the area would result in less-effective control of any runoff.

He said, The project involves removing three trees. While they provide a visual barrier, they do not help control runoff or flooding. A vegetative barrier like DOC is putting there is used throughout Wisconsin as a natural barrier between fields and properties, and is accepted as a best practice.

A budget number for the project has not yet been released.

Senator Joan Ballweg and Representative Jon Plumer have written letters of support on citizens behalf.
Beaver Dam Unified School District Superintendent Mark DiStefano showed area schools rates of students and staff who have had COVID and pointed out that all the districts were at less than 1 percent including Beaver Dam.

Our responsibly on the board is to do what is best for the students, and that means all the students, board member Marge Jorgensen said.

The responsibility of the board includes those students with health issues, Jorgensen said. It is the boards responsibility to take care of all students.

Board member Mary Kuntz said she would like to keep course with the plan where the masks would become optional when COVID case numbers go down.

I get the trajectory based on data, but I also know CDC numbers go where they need to be, Prieve said.

Prieve said he did not see the mask requirement being lifted this year if the current guidelines were followed and said he would like to do something more similar to other districts like Mayville and West Bend who require masking where masking is only required when COVID rise above a certain percent

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If masks work, why doesnt our data show a number significantly different than other schools where masks are optional? Board president JoAnne Tyjeski asked.
The Amtrak and FRA plans both examine what future intercity passenger rail service might look like, FRA spokesperson Warren Flatau said. Amtraks plan generally focuses on operations over existing rail lines and looks ahead to 2035, while the FRA plan explores the potential for building new high-speed rail infrastructure in the region with a horizon of 2055, he said.

The FRA plan, published this month, concludes that for a Chicago-Twin Cities corridor to fulfill its true potential, that corridor must go via Madison, Flatau said. Doing otherwise would leave too much ridership on the table.

Core Express

The corridor is the lone Core Express service link marked for further study in the Northwest section of the 12-state study area in the detailed, 198-page plan. Other Core Express corridors in the 12-state area are Chicago to Detroit, Chicago to Indianapolis, and Chicago to St. Louis.
Portage Police received a shoplifting complaint at the Portage Wal-Mart. When they arrived they arrested a man who allegedly attempted to steal over $600 in electronics.

Calvin W. Broas, 30, Baraboo, was arrested for felony retail theft-intentionally take (>$500), a class I felony, and two counts of felony bail jumping, a class H felony, in Columbia County.

At his initial appearance on Oct. 21 Judge Todd Hepler set Broas cash bond at $500 with standard felony conditions. As of Tuesday, Broas remained in custody at the Columbia County Jail.

According to the criminal complaint, On Oct. 19 Portage officers went to the Portage Wal-Mart. They were given a description of the suspect. A man matching the description was seen behind a building down the street on New Pinery Road.

Portage Police Sgt. Eric Walter reported seeing a man fitting the description of the suspect and questioned him. The suspect, later identified by Wisconsin drivers license as Broas, allegedly admitted to recently leaving Wal-Mart but left items behind in the store.

Officers then went to Wal-Mart where employees showed Walterss items in a black tote bag, it contained numerous PC games, markers, a lighter and many electronic items.
Speaking with reporters on Tuesday, Vos said he is reviewing Kauls request for a restraining order but said Gableman may still seek an interview with Wolfe before the December hearing.

Its certainly possible if not likely that we will issue those prior to the Dec. 23 hearing, Vos said. But in keeping with the judges ruling, well ensure that we do it in a way that also gives an opportunity for those to move forward.

Kaul, who is representing the Wisconsin Elections Commission and Wolfe, issued the request for a temporary restraining order on Thursday, stating that Gablemans subpoenas were overly broad and infected with the numerous legal flaws. Kaul also said interviews need to be held in public before a legislative committee, rather than in private, as Gableman had requested.
Can gaming transform the way we learn?

Professor Barry Dwolatzky explains what gamification in learning is and how it is on a path to change the future of higher education.

Generation Z are rapidly stepping onto the world stage. They are graduating from high school, entering the workforce and studying at tertiary education institutions. Referred to as digital natives, this generation grew up with technology and have no knowledge of life without it. They are globally connected, incredibly mobile, entrepreneurial and crave autonomy  especially when it comes to education where they want flexibility on how, where and when they learn.

Are our South African universities equipped to engage with and stimulate these digitally immersed learners?

Emeritus Professor Barry Dwolatzky, Director of Innovation Strategy at Wits University and who also serves on the Computer Science Advisory Board of University of the People (UoPeople), a tuition-free, online university, says that conventional education models are starting to become superfluous in our modern age as more learners go online.

The brick-and-mortar style of tertiary education is set to be disrupted in the near future with a move towards virtual learning. With so much material available through technology anytime, anywhere, it is no longer necessary to physically attend a lecture with hundreds of people. Learners can watch and learn online from the comfort of their homes, he says.

But can digital learning be as effective and engaging as in-person education?

Teaching by traditional methods with a blackboard and the teachers voice as focal point  or chalk and talk  is already making way for more online learning spurred on by the global pandemic, while a more informal and interactive approach that allows learners to study at their own pace has long been acknowledged to inspire more effective learning.

This is where gamification comes in. By blending the online method with interactive learning techniques, a new way of learning is created, integrating game elements and game thinking in activities that are not games. Technology, then, becomes a tool for active, instead of passive, learning. Using game-based mechanics, aesthetics and critical thinking to engage people, it promotes studying and increases motivation.

While South Africa is not quite there yet with gamified education, with the digital divide a stumbling block to including lower-income learners in online learning, UoPeaple is opening up opportunities with its tuition-free model and is on the right path to making gamification in higher education a reality. This is critically important for a country such as South Africa where unemployment among the youth is at a record high and which is in dire need of jobseekers with tertiary certificates or degrees.

Dwolatzky sees huge merit in gamifying learning and believes disruptors in the education sector should tap into this method of learning to keep students motivated and minimise dropout rates: There is a lot to be learnt from gaming. There is no penalty for failure  if you lose you start again, taking the lessons learnt with you into the next game. There is no stigma attached to failure  it is seen as part of progressing. People play in virtual multinational groups and learn to collaborate and communicate with players from different cultures in order to jointly solve problems, he explains.

World-renowned game designer, author and researcher Jane McGonigal asserts that gamification works because gaming triggers emotions such as joy, excitement, curiosity and pride, among others. Gamification is being used in business with good results, offering hope. McGonigal believes that these techniques could be applied to revolutionise the ways through which higher education is delivered or assessed.

Gamification perfectly aligns with the flipped classroom concept, where traditional ideas about classroom activities are reversed, transforming learning into a hands-on, differentiated and even personalised learning experience. The theory is that students learn best when they have goals, targets and achievements to reach for in a way they perceive as fun. So, using game-based elements, such as virtual currency or point scoring, problem-solving activities, peer competition, teamwork, score tables and advancements to higher levels help learners assimilate new information and test their knowledge.

As a computer science advisor to the online UoPeople, Dwolatzky has insight into how students respond to online learning and what keeps them motivated. Universities that recognise the connection between digital engagement and student experience will be ahead of the curve in educating online learners.

At UoPeople, learners participate in online discussion forums, peer review groups and graded quizzes, all of which improve attitudes towards learning, Dwolatzky says. This is echoed by UoPeople President Shai Reshef: Thanks to our strong online community, students make connections from all around the world. This is a resource for sharing information, wisdom and support as well as for building a vibrant, international network.

Reshef concludes: When implemented correctly, online education is the solution to the crisis in higher education. It is not just putting lectures on Zoom; rather, there is an entire pedagogy involved. You need to build in meaningful interactions and create virtual resources for students to make a positive change in student behaviour.
UTICA, N.Y. - Voters were able to meet the candidates for several city and county races ahead of election day.

Innovation Collective called this event a "Donkephant", which is a combination of donkey and elephant, in reference to the mascots of the Democratic and Republican parties.

Steve Karboski, Community Lead for the Innovation Collective, said the structure of this forum is different because it is non-traditional and bipartisan.

"I think the most difficult thing is to find who is running, right? We do a good job at saying that, but part of our event is just to say 'One more time, here are all the candidates.'"

Voters who weren't able to meet the candidates are able to find information through the candidates' websites.

Locations and times to cast your vote can be found here.
WASHINGTON (AP) - U.S. health advisers have endorsed kid-size doses of Pfizer's COVID-19 vaccine for younger children.

The vote Tuesday by the Food and Drug Administration panel moves the U.S. closer to vaccinating children ages 5 to 11.

The FDA isnt bound by the panels recommendation and is expected to make its own decision within days. If regulators agree, shots could begin as early as late next week.

Young kids would get a third of the dose given to teens and adults. A study found kid-size vaccinations are nearly 91% effective at preventing infections that cause symptoms. Moderna also is studying its vaccine for young children.

(Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.)
ROME, N.Y. -- Oneida County is holding booster clinics this week, with Moderna shots now available following last weeks FDA approval.

Both Moderna and Pfizer will be available Thursday, Oct. 28, at the Griffiss International Aiport POD on Hangar Road.

A Pfizer clinic will also be held at Mohawk Valley Community Colleges Jorgensen Center in Utica on Friday, Oct. 29.

For more information on clinics and links to book an appointment, click here.
WHITESBORO, N.Y. -- A Texas man was arrested four separate times over two days following various burglary investigations in Oswego and Oneida counties.

On Tuesday, 25-year-old Bryan O. Salazar, 25, of Texas, was arrested for the fourth time just 10 minutes after being arraigned in Oriskany on charges from an incident the day prior.

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, Salazar was seen entering a construction office on Base Road around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday. When officers located him, he was found with items that were allegedly stolen from the office.

He was charged with third-degree burglary and was pending arraignment Tuesday afternoon.

Salazar had been arrested in Oswego, Whitestown and Whitesboro regarding three separate incidents the day before. He was released without bail each time.

The Whitesboro arrest stemmed from a burglary that happened Sunday at Route 69 Auto Sales on Oriskany Boulevard.

Police say Salazar broke into the sales shop and stole keys to a Ford Explorer, which he drove away in.

Following an investigation into the theft, Salazar was arrested Monday and charged with burglary, criminal mischief, grand larceny and petit larceny.

Salazar is also facing burglary and grand larceny charges out of Oswego and Whitestown, but no details are available about the circumstances of those arrests at this time.

Tuesday night, the Oneida County District Attorney's Office filed a motion for the judge to consider setting bail during Salazar's forth arraignment, after he had been released without bail for several previous felony charges. The judge set bail at $10,000 cash or $50,000 bond.

Salazar is scheduled to appear in Town of Whitestown Court on Friday for a felony exam. This will determine if Salazar can be held in jail while he waits for a grand jury.
In former President Donald Trump's world, a high-speed cycle of influence can move radical ideas from the fringe to his personal agenda in short order. While other candidates and politicians use experts to screen out bad ideas -- Obama used a whole group just for health care issues, for instance -- Trump's filter seems calibrated to select themes like his false claims of voter fraud that excite or alarm his supporters. Follow the pattern, and there is a risk of a Trump 2024 campaign powered by the White Replacement Theory.

Also known as the Great Replacement Theory, this idea lurked behind the "Unite the Right" rally of August 2017, which saw a small army of young White nationalist men carrying tiki torches while chanting "You will not replace us!" and "Jews will not replace us!" as they paraded in Charlottesville, Virginia. (The next day, a rally-goer rammed his car into a crowd of counterprotesters and killed a woman.)

Flash forward to 2021, and you find the concept, on Trump's favorite major network, in postings from far-Right internet influencers and coming from the mouths of his fellow Republicans.

We have been here before. In the 2016 election campaign, it was the conspiracy theorist Alex Jones who fed Trump ridiculous notions he used to woo voters. The process surprised even those who worked on Jones's InfoWars program. On PBS' Frontline, one of them said, "...really Trump, really? You're taking his word for it?"

With the midterm elections on the horizon, influential talkers on Fox News and some of Trump's more prominent surrogates are pushing the "Replacement Theory" in ways the former president could hardly miss. Tucker Carlson has even gone so far as to declare the Democrats are implementing an actual plan to change the nation's racial makeup for some malign purpose.

"In political terms, this policy is called the great replacement, the replacement of legacy Americans with more obedient people from faraway countries," said Carlson last month. He was immediately echoed by a fellow Trump booster, Rep. Matt Gaetz of Florida, who took to Twitter to declare Carlson was "CORRECT about Replacement Theory as he explains what is happening to America."

What is actually happening is a decades-long demographic shift which has seen the non-White population grow due to higher birthrates and immigration patterns, while White birthrates have declined. The claim that these newcomers would somehow be more "obedient" is Carlson's way of saying he assumes they would automatically vote for Democrats.

Trump has voiced racist paranoia about today's new immigrants, referring to immigrants as rapists, drug traffickers and criminals, complaining of people coming to America from "sh****** countries" with large Black populations and suggested four Black and Brown women in Congress "go back and fix the totally broken and crime infested places from which they came." Trump was, of course, imprecise. Three of the women he targeted were born in the US. But the point wasn't precision, it was posturing in a way that showed.

Add Trump's musing about wanting more immigrants from Norway and his vow to "take back our country" and it's easy to see he has already stepped up to the thin line that separates him from White Replacement Theory. He might as well have said America should welcome White immigrants while barring others and even exiling some who are already citizens.

Thanks to networked technology, the cycle which can deliver paranoia to the masses spins at the speed of light. However, American nativism of this sort can be traced to a much slower age. Back in the 19th century, Irish immigrants were targeted with claims they would be more loyal to the Pope than their new country. In the same period Asians were so feared, a mob in Los Angeles carried out a massacre in Chinatown and Congress targeted Chinese women with its first anti-immigrant law.

White America's fears of being subsumed by other racial groups were later supported in pseudoscientific terms with the 1916 publication of The Passing of the Great Race by Madison Grant, who warned against immigration and interracial marriage. Grant's book, which expanded on ideas that originated from economist William Ripley, informed lawmakers who approved laws banning interracial marriage. He was also cited publicly by Adolf Hitler.

Just as Grant borrowed from Ripley, advocates of today's White Replacement Theory borrowed from French author Renaud Camus to make arguments now resonating with Republican officials, including Rep. Brian Babin of Texas and Rep. Scott Perry of Pennsylvania. In comments on Fox News last month, Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick told host Laura Ingraham President Joe Biden is purposely letting immigrants try to "take over our country without firing a shot."

Ingraham is not just receptive to those spouting Replacement Theory, she is also a leading voice for this concept. In 2018, she said "In some parts of the country, it does seem like the America that we know and love doesn't exist anymore." She added, "Massive demographic changes have been foisted upon the American people and they're changes that none of us ever voted for and most of us don't like."

Although she subsequently said she wasn't referring to race, and White nationalism is "antithetical" to her beliefs, Ingraham was embraced by racist agitator David Duke and later claimed on her show that a White supremacist was being "censored on social media."

Before Ingraham and others mainstreamed it, Replacement Theory bounced around the internet. YouTube influencers, like Lauren Southern, built careers on attracting audiences with alarming claims. (Before it was taken down, her post titled The Great Replacement was viewed more than 500,000 times.)

The more visible alarmists like Ingraham and Carlson can function as the final link in a chain which leads from the likes of Southern to Trump. Last year, Axios documented five instances of what it termed a "mind meld" between Trump and Carlson. In each case, Trump seized upon issues Carslon stressed and used the terms he deployed to discuss them.

Trump has long made use of more general racist terms and attitudes. If he seizes upon White Replacement Theory, he will embrace an obviously paranoid and dangerous view of the future that has a ready-built network of supporters who are likely to be excited to hear he is joining them. A recent poll by the Public Religion Research Institute found White evangelical Protestants, who form a significant portion of Trump's base, are particularly open to the idea that America is for people like them.

Slightly more than half agreed with the notion "God intended America to be a new promised land where European Christians could create a society that could be an example to the rest of the world" and most of them agreed today's immigrants are "replacing our cultural and ethnic background."

A shrewd politician who is willing to use fearmongering and racism to energize his supporters might use the language of Replacement Theory in an election campaign. Know anyone like that?

This version has been updated with a fuller description of the chants at the Charlottesville rally.

The-CNN-Wire

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CUTLER, Ind. (WLFI)  The Adams Mill is located in Cutler, Indiana.

Throughout the year, the property is a host to multiple events and festivals.

The mill was completed in 1846.

While the building no longer serves as an operational mill, it's common for ghosts to make an appearance.

People have reported several unexplained noises and apparitions throughout the building.

"You hear footsteps walking up and down the stairs. There's nobody in here. The doors are locked," Matthew LeBeau, the property manager of the board of directors for the Adams Mill, told News 18. "We've had reports of a lady in a blue dress standing in the third-floor window."

The mill isn't the only site on the property with paranormal reports.

The Adams Mill Covered Bridge, which dates back to 1872, is a hot spot for activity.

"We've got reports of people not being able to cross it...like something's keeping them from physically touching the bridge," LeBeau told News 18. "We've had people standing on the bridge, 8-foot shadows, and just absolute swallowing darkness."

Along with historical education, the sites at Adams Mill serve as a tool for those interested in the paranormal.

"Once a month, we do an open-to-the-public investigation," LeBeau told News 18. "You can come out here, and we will give you a crash course in how to become a ghost hunter."

The property also serves as a historic museum and hosts several events throughout the year for guests to enjoy.

For more information on the Adams Mill, click here.

Watch previous "Haunted Lafayette" stories below:

Why People Ghost Hunt (2021)

The Benton County Jail (2020)

Top Notch Bar (2020)

Pierce Cemetery (2019)

The Fowler Theater (2019)

New York Street Murder (2018)

Amelia Earhart and Hangar Number One (2018)

The Pythian Home (2018)

The Tippecanoe County Triple Execution (2017)

The Lahr House Guillotine (2017)
Dedicated in their honor: W&M dedicates Boswell, Willis halls

In his honor: (From left) Christopher Honenberger 74, J.D. 77, W&M Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer Chon Glover, Hulon Willis Jr. 77, President Katherine Rowe, Matt Gallo 23, Sami Khleifat 24, Will Cameron 24 and Renard Miles, Sigma Phi Epsilon Chapter Counselor and W&M Director of Employer Engagement & Programming, at the Willis Hall dedication. Photo by Stephen Salpukas Photo - of - Hide Caption

New names in honor of trailblazing alumni now grace two campus buildings. Morton Hall and Taliaferro Hall were dedicated this fall as John E. Boswell Hall and Hulon L. Willis Sr. Hall, respectively.

Boswell Hall is named for John E. Boswell 69, a recognized scholar, professor and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Willis Hall is named after Hulon L. Willis Sr. M.Ed. 56, a veteran, professor, karate sensei and police trainer who was the first African American student to enroll at William & Mary.

The ceremonies were a culmination of the work begun by the Principles of Naming and Renaming Working Group last year, in consultation with the Design Review Board. Based on the working groups report, President Katherine A. Rowe recommended the name changes in February and the Board of Visitors voted to approve them in April.

Boswell Hall

Boswell Hall was dedicated in a ceremony at the building on Aug. 30. Along with W&M alumni, faculty, staff, board members and students, several members of the Boswell family were in attendance, including John Boswells brother, Wray Boswell; his sister, the Rev. Patricia Boswell, and her husband Glenn; and his cousin, James Boswell, with his husband, Chris.

John Boswell transformed the intellectual landscape for LBGTQ+ scholars and profoundly changed our understanding of LGBTQ+ history, William & Mary President Katherine A. Rowe said during the ceremony.

John gives us a model for how to be reflective, how to constantly think forward, as learners and teachers. His work made it easier for the next generation to fully own their identities. It exemplifies the idea that we change in order to advance that which we value most.

The Rev. Patricia Boswell shared her memories of her brother, known to her family as Jeb, and how his deep Christian faith motivated his social justice work. She shared that Boswell Hall almost had a different name  when Boswell was a graduate student at Harvard, he was concerned that his advocacy for the LGBTQ community would embarrass his family. He offered to his parents that he would change his name.

Back then, having your sexual orientation found out could result in losing your job or even your life, said Patricia Boswell in her remarks. My mother wrote that they couldnt possibly ask him to change his name, because he had never brought anything but honor to it.

Now, he lends his name to the academic building that houses Gender, Sexuality and Womens Studies, the Center for the Liberal Arts, Classical Studies and many other disciplines.

I would like to express my familys immense joy and pride in the honor that William & Mary has bestowed upon our beloved brother, as well as our gratitude, she said. Some of the happiest days of Jebs life were spent on this campus, and I can think of no tribute that would have meant more to him.

Willis Hall

The university dedicated Willis Hall on Oct. 9 during Homecoming & Reunion Weekend. Despite a light rain, the gathered crowd filled the sidewalk in front of the building. Also in attendance were Hulon Willis Sr.s son, Hulon Willis Jr. 77; his daughter, Kimberley Willis Miles 80; and his granddaughter, Mica Willis 13 and her wife, Emily.

In her remarks, President Rowe spoke about the deeper meaning of renaming a dorm after Willis, the first African American student admitted to William & Mary. As a graduate student, he did not live on campus  the first Black residential students would not be admitted until 1967. Now, some of William & Marys newest students will live in Willis Hall as part of our residential community.

At this Homecoming & Reunion Weekend, were coming together to celebrate William & Mary students  past students, students who are here now, and the students that we want to have come here in the future. Mr. Willis expanded the definition of who comes to study on this campus, said President Rowe.

He paved new paths for Black students to enroll at William & Mary, and for them and others to continue to lift as they climbed, President Rowe continued, referencing a quote by civil rights and education advocate Mary Church Terrell.

Hulon Willis Jr. told a moving story about meeting a man the day before the ceremony who had worked at William & Mary since his father was a student here. Willis described his joy at seeing the building named for his father but stressed the importance of remembering the invisible people who were part of this college, who supported us when no one else would, like the staff member he had met.

He said his father would be honored to see the building renamed in his honor and to see his family also graduate from his alma mater.

Regardless of the challenges he faced, he took pride in William & Mary, he said.

The W&M Alumni Associations network for alumni of Black and African descent, the Hulon Willis Association (HWA), is also named for Hulon L. Willis Sr. The co-presidents of HWA, Sasha Thompson 97, M.A. 99 and Jerome Carter 12, spoke at the ceremony about carrying forward Williss legacy as a changemaker.

The renaming of this building serves as a reminder that this work takes dedication, it takes fortitude, it takes involvement, said Thompson. It is a reminder that as we move forward, we must hold fast to the good, to his legacy, and bring that with us as we continue to build and grow together.

Future dedications

The university is also planning to dedicate the Arthur A. Matsu Arcade at Cary Field, the arched walkway at Zable Stadium that serves as its northern colonnade, later this academic year. The arcade is named in honor of Art Matsu 27, the universitys first known Asian American student, who was also William & Marys first well-known football player. A video about Matsu premiered during halftime during the Homecoming game, and the dedication will be one of many events as part of the universitys Asian Centennial.
W&M business professor discusses new book on 'Community, Economy, and COVID-19'

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With Raymond A. Mason School of Business Professor Don Rahtzs new book "Community, Economy, and COVID-19: Lessons from Multi-Country Analyses of a Global Pandemic," co-authored by Clifford Shultz and Joseph Sirgy, about to hit the bookshelves, Masons Chief Marketing Officer Jeffrey Rich sat down with Rahtz to find out what his new book is all about. The full interview is available in the video above, and edited excerpts are below.



What prompted you to write this book at this time?

Its an interesting backstory from an experience getting ready to fly back from Asia in January of 2020 when all of a sudden, flights were starting to be canceled. The next thing I knew, I had to be rerouted up through Tokyo and finally got in on one of the later flights that came into the U.S. before everything got shut down. As it turns out, COVID was making its way through the system, and they pretty much shut down entry into the U.S. Not too long after I made it back, my colleagues and I, Cliff Schultz and Joe Sirgy, started to think about the impact this would have on countries worldwide, on markets, and just the whole system. We knew then the research we had been doing for some time on macro marketing systems and how things interface would undoubtedly be impacted. We also knew then there would be a lot of societal elements and quality of life issues that would be impacted as well. So we started to really think about what COVID will be doing to these systems worldwide, not just to our systems here in the U.S. That became the genesis of this book, "Community, Economy, and COVID-19: Lessons from Multi-Country Analyses of a Global Pandemic."

Did you sense on that flight when this was happening that it was going to be as big and last as long it did?

Not really. We didn't understand the true global impact until we got back. Ive witnessed other outbreaks, and nothing prepared me for what this would become, and I haven't been on a global flight since that day. It wasnt until a few weeks later that we began to recognize this virus would impact us in historic proportion. As a student of history myself, if you go back into history, several events are really tied to pandemics and affected the global trade routes of the day. The Muslim trade routes pulled back during the plague because they didn't want to interact with Europe. That allowed Europe to rise into those trade routes. Meanwhile, Chinese traders said, wait a minute, we're not going to interact with them either. So while not the interconnected global economy we have now, you can see how global trade was beginning to get disrupted, even then.

What do you think is unique and most interesting about this book?

The books real contribution is looking at and understanding the impact of the pandemic on different cultures, places and economies. As you can imagine, when you're talking about countries from all over the world, the difficulty is how we group them together and provide some sort of systematic way to analyze things. Previously, in 2017, we had written an article in a chapter of a book on community well-being. We took our work from that 2017 article and made it the basis for this book.
Bettina Lerman was on a ventilator for weeks after getting COVID-19 and hadn't responded to doctors' efforts to wake her from a coma when her family made the difficult decision to take her off of life support.
Woodward, OK (73801)

Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High near 65F. Winds light and variable..

Tonight

Overcast. Low near 40F. Winds N at 10 to 15 mph.
Also referred to as Cordillera de los Andes in Spanish, the Andes Mountains is the worlds longest mountain range that stretches for more than 6,999km along the western margin of the South American continent. The Andes Mountains have an average height of 4,000m and a maximum width of 200 to 700km, and are considered as the highest mountain range that is situated outside the continent of Asia. This long mountain range extends from the north to south direction straddling the seven South American nations of Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela. The Andes Mountains also form a part of the American Cordillera, which is a continuous series of mountain ranges that stretches across a major part of North, Central and South Americas.

Geography Of The Andes Mountains

Cactuses on the Altiplano in the red colored Andes Mountains of Bolivia.

Throughout their length, the Andes Mountains are divided into many ranges by intervening depressions. Numerous high plateaus are located in the Andes Mountain Range and some of these plateaus host important South American cities such as Arequipa, Bucaramanga, Bogota, Cali, Merida, Sucre, La Paz, Quito, etc. The Andes Mountains are further divided into three parts: the Northern Andes, the Central Andes, and the Southern Andes. Located in the Central Andes is the 3,750m high Altiplano Plateau, which is considered as the worlds second-highest plateau after the 4,500m high Tibetan Plateau.

A view of Mount Aconcagua at the Aconcagua Provincial Park, Mendoza, Argentina.

Based on the climate, the Andes Mountain Range is further subdivided into three groups: the Dry Andes, the Tropical Andes, and the Wet Andes. The Dry Andes runs through the countries of Chile, Bolivia, and the northwestern part of Argentina; the Tropical Andes through the countries of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela; and the Wet Andes through the countries of Argentina and Chile. Situated along the boundary between Argentina and Chile, and forming a part of the Principal Cordillera of the Southern Andes Mountains is, Mount Aconcagua - which rises to an elevation of 6,961m and is considered as the tallest mountain in both the Western and Southern hemispheres. Also located in the Andes Mountain Range, on the border between the Argentine Catamarca Province and the Chilean Copiapo Province, is the 6,893m high Nevado Ojos del Salado, which is considered as the worlds highest active stratovolcano, Chiles highest mountain, and second-highest mountain in the Southern and Western hemispheres. Some of the other notable Andean Peaks include Monte Pissis, Mount Huascaran, Cerro Bonete, Nevado Tres Cruces, Mount Llullaillaco, Cerro Mercedario, Mount Incahuasi, Mount Chimborazo etc.

Geology

A view of the Andes Mountains.

It is believed that the Andes Mountain system formed due to the movement of tectonic plates that began during the Mesozoic Era and the Tertiary Period. The Andes are situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire, which is considered one of the earths most volcanically active regions. Geological studies have revealed that the convergence of the Nazca Plate and the South American Plate started the mountain-building activity that eventually led to the formation of the Andes Mountain Range. The Andes is bounded by many sedimentary basins including the Amazon Basin, Orinoco Basin, etc in the east; the Patagonia Terrane in the south, and the Pacific Ocean in the west. Also forming the western boundary of the Andes is the Peru-Chile Trench . The Andes Mountains area is also home to huge deposits of valuable metals and minerals including copper, coal, iron ore, gold, silver, etc. Geologists believe that the subduction of the Nazca Plate and a portion of the Antarctic Plate under the South American Plate is the cause of the earthquakes and volcanic activities that are continuing in the region even today.

Climate

Group of skiers hiking for fresh snow in the backcountry of Portillo, Chile in the Andes Mountains. Editorial credit: OutdoorWorks / Shutterstock.com

The climate in the Andes Mountains varies greatly depending upon a host of conditions including its geographical location, proximity to the sea, and altitudinal variations. The Andes Mountain Range also forms a massive climatic barrier between the Pacific Ocean and the South American continent and therefore has a major impact on the climate of the entire region. The northern part of the Andes has a warm and wet climate, while the southern part experiences a comparatively cooler but wet climate. The western side of the Central Andes is very dry and includes the Atacama Desert, while the eastern plains of Argentina, which is located in the mountains rain-shadow area also have extremely drier weather.

Flora And Fauna Of The Andes Mountains

Llamas (Alpaca) in the Andes Mountains, Peru, South America.

The Andes Mountains cut through many floristic and natural areas as it stretches from Caribbean Venezuela to Cape Horn. More than 30,000 vascular plant species are found in the region, with half of them endemic to the Andes Mountains. The small medicinal plant Cinchona pubescens, which is known for its high quinine content is widely found in the Andean region. The Andean states of Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru are dominated by high-altitude woodlands and Polylepis forests. The Andean region has a rich faunal wealth. With over 1,000 species of amphibians, of which two-third are endemic to the region, the Andes Mountains are the most crucial areas for amphibians on the planet. In addition to this, about 400 species of fish, 600 species of reptiles, 600 species of mammals, and 1,700 species of birds are found in the Andes. It is estimated that approximately more than two-thirds of all the Andean species are endemic to the region. Some of the notable mammals that are found here include vicuna, guanaco, chinchillas, yellow-tailed woolly monkey, spectacled bear, mountain tapir, South American foxes, etc. Some of the significant avian species that are found here include the Andean condor, Andean goose, mountain toucans, Andean flicker, sierra-finches, quetzals, royal cinclodes, etc.

Brief History Of The Andes Mountains

A woman enjoying the view of the ancient Machu Pichu citadel in Peru.

Although the oldest human remains found in the Andean region is only about 10,000 to 12,000 years old, it is believed that the region was inhabited since ancient times. The Inca Civilization began in the highlands of Peru at the beginning of the 13th century and spread throughout the Andean region in the 1400s. The Incas constructed several roads and aqueducts throughout the mountain range. The Inca people also constructed spectacular sites including the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the capital city of Cuzco. In the 1530s, the Spanish conquistadors came to the region in search of gold, and eventually, the Andes became well known for their rich mineral wealth during the Spanish colonial rule. In 1532, the Inca Empire was destroyed by civil war and exposure to European diseases. The remaining indigenous Andean families are those that speak the Aymara and Quechua languages and at present form a major part of Bolivias population. It is believed that the name Andes has been derived from the Quechua word anti which means east. The Andes Mountains currently serve as one of the most popular tourist destinations and offer many recreational activities like camping, hiking, and mountaineering. On January 14, 1897, a Swiss mountaineer named Matthias Zurbrigen became the first person to climb the summit of Mount Aconcagua.

Ten Highest Peaks
Acies Bio's industrial fermentation development process which focuses on space-time-yield performance already during the R&D phase. (File Photo)

CHICAGO, US: ADM, a global leader in nutrition and agricultural origination and processing, announced that it is making a leading equity investment in Acies Bio, a Slovenia-based biotechnology company specializing in R&D and manufacturing services for developing and scaling synthetic biology and precision fermentation technologies for food, agriculture and industrial applications. ADMs investment in Acies Bio is being made through ADM Ventures, the companys corporate venture capital arm.

Founded in 2006, Acies Bio develops innovative, proprietary microbial and synthetic biology-based platforms and technologies and also offers contract R&D services in microbial strain engineering and fermentation for customers in key growth segments, including sustainable agriculture, functional foods and bio-based industrial chemicals.

This investment will help ADM more quickly advance projects in the field of precision microbial fermentation by leveraging Acies Bios extensive microbial capabilities and contract manufacturing services.

Microbial technology is unlocking disruptive opportunities in sustainable agriculture, sustainable materials and fuels, and alternative proteins, said Ian Pinner, ADM chief strategy and innovation officer. Were propelling growth opportunities by working with innovators who appreciate our unique combination of expertise, capacity and access to feedstocks. Now, by investing to become a minority owner in Acies Bio, were opening up the door to new collaboration with an innovative, complementary business to meet the growing demand for products developed via microbial fermentation.

Acies Bios core mission is to use the nearly unlimited power of microbial diversity to drive disruptive innovation and help create a more sustainable bio-based future, said Enej Kuscer, Acies Bios co-founder and director. This strategic partnership with ADM will allow Acies Bio to expand and accelerate the development of our platform technologies, which aim to replace synthetic chemicals and the often carbon-intensive production currently used in food and agriculture with microbial, bio-based products.

This investment from ADM will also allow Acies Bio to expand our infrastructure and increase the high-throughput capabilities of our SmartRoute platform, which will allow faster development of new technologies and products, said Stefan Fujs, Acies Bio's co-founder and director. This will speed-up the internal pipeline and also help us deliver more quality services to our partners and collaborators.

 Worldofchemicals News
Perstorp CFO Ulf Berghult will leave the company for a CFO role elsewhere. Berghult will continue in his role at Perstorp during his notice period, and Perstorp will quickly evaluate both external and internal replacement candidates.

MALMO, SWEDEN: Perstorp said that CFO Ulf Berghult will leave the company for a CFO role elsewhere. Berghult will continue in his role at Perstorp during his notice period, and Perstorp will quickly evaluate both external and internal replacement candidates.

I have received an offer I couldnt say no to, which unfortunately means that I will have to leave Perstorp prematurely. I have truly enjoyed my short time with the company and the executive team, and I strongly believe in the bright future Perstorp has ahead, said Berghult.

"It is with disappointment that I have to announce that Ulf has made the decision to leave Perstorp after less than a year in the position. I have truly valued our co-operation and want to emphasize that I would have hoped to develop our work further in the coming years. Ulf will be missed as a colleague and valuable member of our executive leadership team," said Jan Secher, president & CEO of Perstorp.

Perstorp is currently in a very dynamic phase with strong result generation and with a strategy that is taking the company in a direction of stronger focus on specialities for the selected segments resins & coatings, engineered fluids and animal nutrition - all based on a solid commitment to sustainability and with digital transformation as an enabler to accelerate its transformation.

 Worldofchemicals News
Hiker lost for 24 hours ignored rescuers' calls because 'they didn't recognize the number'
Drugs seized during the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (JCODE) team's annual campaignthis year called Operation Dark HunTor. The operation resulted in the seizure of over $31.6 million in cash and virtual currencies and approximately 234 kilograms of drugs worldwide.
Matt was promoted to Chief Meteorologist in 2019. He started as our Saturday evening meteorologist in September of 2014 before being promoted to Evening Meteorologist in 2016. Born and raised in Sheboygan, WI, Matt loves everything about this great state, including experiencing all four seasons and deer hunting. He enjoys forecasting all types of weather and does so while cheering for all Wisconsin sports teams!
A view from Wrexhams Member of Parliament

Wrexham.com has invited Wrexham & Clwyd South Members of Parliament and Assembly Members to write a monthly article with updates on their work in their respective Parliaments and closer to home  you can find them all here.

Today, Wrexhams MP Sarah Atherton writes

First and foremost, many across Wrexham and the rest of the UK were rocked by Sir David Amess murder earlier this month. Sir David was a committed Parliamentarian, and his loss will be felt greatly in the House of Commons. I want to thank those that have sent me their wishes and thoughts in the aftermath, and I am also incredibly grateful to the Polices swift response and commitment to my and my staffs continued safety. This will also not stop me doing my work representing you, and I will continue to be out and about across the community.

Health continues to be at the top of the agenda, with the recent report highlighting concerns about staff wellbeing at the Maelor. Having returned to the frontline last year, I know that the staff at the Maelor do a fantastic job which is why I am pleased that the Welsh Government and the health board have committed to putting plans in place to improve the situation, which I look forward to hearing about in due course.

I will continue to lobby and advocate on behalf of my constituents regarding health care and will take up health cases and concerns on behalf of anyone in Wrexham. However, as health is devolved, I really would urge all residents of Wrexham to make sure any concerns they may have about local healthcare access are also raised with the Senedd Member. Last week I met again with Jo Whitehead, the Chief Executive of the Betsi Cadwaladr Health Board to further reiterate my concerns about access to local health care. In better news, though, it seems that my campaign to bring a Maggies Cancer Centre to North Wales is progressing. Having lobbied the health board on this over several months now, I was pleased to hear that there is progress!

This month, I invited stakeholders from across the town to a roundtable meeting to discuss crime and antisocial behaviour, following correspondence from residents on the subject and having seen worrying behaviour first-hand. From personal experience, I know that the Police and Council are doing excellent work to tackle these issues, but given the situation, I think now is an opportune moment to bring stakeholders together to further discuss these issues and to coordinate a response that will make sure residents concerns are acted upon. I am grateful to the Council and Polices positive attitude and pragmatic approach to this already, although I was disappointed that the Senedd Member for Wrexham has declined to attend, noting that she had seen little evidence to suggest anti-social behaviour is on the rise in Wrexham town centre, with no constituents raising such concerns with me in recent months. Constituents may not have raised concerns with her, but frustrations and worries have certainly been raised with me.



At the Conservative Party Conference this month, I invited to speak in two panel discussions events, one of which was about the strength of the United Kingdom and how our response to the pandemic has been stronger thanks to the benefits of our shared Union. During the event, I was pleased to be able to speak about the excellent work of Wockhardt in the vaccine rollout, and of our Armed Forces, who have stepped up to support communities across the country. It was apt, therefore, that following the Conference, it was announced that military personnel would be assisting the Welsh Ambulance Service, once again highlighting the brilliant role our military can play.



Wrexham was also longlisted in the UK Governments City of Culture 2025 competition, highlighting our towns rich heritage and vibrant culture. The longlisting came with 40,000 from the UK Government to support the Councils bid, which I wish well going forward. As well as being a prestigious title, City of Culture status can bring significant economic benefits and will further put Wrexham on the national and global map!



As such, and as always, if there is anything I can do to help, please dont hesitate to contact me by email on sarah.atherton.mp@parliament.uk or by telephone on 01978 291742.

Wrexham.com has invited Wrexham & Clwyd South Welsh and UK Parliament representatives to write a monthly article with updates on their work and closer to home  you can find them all here.
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Directed by Johannes Naber; written by Naber and Oliver Keidel

Operation Curveball by German director Johannes Naber valuably turns a knife in a wound that many in the American and German intelligence communities and governments no doubt hoped had long since healedthe way in which the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003 was based on entirely fraudulent and lying justifications.

Naber has made a number of notable films, including the immigrant drama The Albanian (2009), Age of Cannibals (2013) and Heartof Stone (2019).

At the premiere of Operation Curveball during the 2020 Berlin International Film Festival, a festival representative introduced the film but said he could not read out its title. The festival listed it merely as Untitled. The films name was the subject of a US lawsuit. After seeing Operation Curveball, one can see why both the American and German intelligence agencies exerted considerable influence to prevent its distribution.

Operation Curveball

Nabers film is a political satire rooted firmly in factual evidence carefully researched by the director and his team. It begins in Iraq where German biologist Dr. Arndt Desert Fox Wolf (Sebastian Blomberg), a biological warfare specialist employed by the Federal Intelligence Service (BND), fails to find any evidence of Saddam Husseins alleged weapons of mass destruction (WMD).

The head of the BND, Schatz (Thorsten Merten), is eager to outdo the CIA and be the first to prove that Iraq possesses the dangerous nerve gas. An opportunity opens up when an Iraqi seeking asylum in Germany, Rafid Alwan (Dar Salim), claims he worked as a chemical engineer in Iraq and has inside knowledge of the countrys chemical weapons programme.

Wolf is given the job of interrogating Curveball, the alias given to the Iraqi engineer. In exchange for revealing what he knows (in fact, a pack of lies and inventions), Alwan requests he be released from incarceration in a German asylum centre and given citizenship.

After a series of interrogations, Alwan takes a hint from Wolf himself and reveals that the reason for the failure of all the intelligence services to find Iraqi WMD is the ingenious use by the Hussein regime of trucks and trains to move the huge chemical vats containing dangerous gases. Absurdly, the two men agree on a crude childish diagram drawn on a napkin purporting to show a truck mounted with the massive vats. Finally, the BND leadership have a scoop to present to their American cousinsand its champagne all round for those concerned. The German chancellor at the time, Gerhard Schroder, also sends his congratulations to the BND.

Desperately seeking evidence to justify a US intervention in Iraq, the CIA is only too willing to accept the scraps from the BNDs table. It organises the kidnapping of Curveball in Germany in order to present him as its own source. Feeling some obligation to the Iraqi fraudster, BND asset Wolf attempts to rescue him in a hilarious escape scene.

Wolf confronts the CIA agent responsible for the kidnap plan and argues in favour of reliable evidence. The American agent is unrepentant: The truth doesnt count, only justice matters. Wolf goes on to ask what gives the CIA the right to distort the facts. We make the facts, the female agent responds.

Toward the end of Operation Curveball, documentary footage is shown of US Secretary of State Colin Powell s infamous presentation to the UN Security Council in February 2003 in which he regurgitated Curveballs lies to justify Americas subsequent attack on Iraq. In his report, Powell stated that Iraqs weapons programme included biological weapons factories on wheels and on rails, an extensive clandestine network to supply its deadly biological and chemical weapons programmes and the obtaining of sufficient fissile material to produce a nuclear explosion. All of this, according to the Secretary of State, represented facts and conclusions based on solid intelligence.

Powells presentation included a sketch of a truck loaded with chemical vats based on Curveballs original napkin drawing. According to one senior US official, Curveballs lies were the main pillar of Powells report to the UN. Sitting in the UN meeting is the German Green Party leader, Joschka Fischer, who listens quietly to Powells report. BND biologist (in the meantime made redundant) Wolf watches Fischer at home on television and asks, Why doesnt he say something?

Fischer was German foreign minister in the government headed by Schroder (Social Democratic Party, SPD). Schroders head of chancellery with responsibility for liaison with Germanys intelligence services was Frank-Walter Steinmeier (also SPD), currently the countrys president.

Nabers Operation Curveball graphically demonstrates the duplicity and criminality of Germanys role in the Iraq war. As chancellor, Schroder publicly declared the German government opposed to a new war in the Middle East. Meanwhile, Germanys intelligence agency was providing the lies that Washington used to legitimise its assault on Iraq in the name of the war on terror.

Naber wants to counter what the director declares to be a false portrayal here, an idealised idea of how we Germans operate in the world. It is important, he argues, to tell the truth and question the role of the secret services and politicians responsible at that time, such as Fischer, Schroder and Steinmeier: So that children at school can no longer be taught that we were the good ones when it came to the Iraq war.

Operation Curveball (2020)

To heighten the comedic effect of his film, Naber presents the leading BND figures as provincial careerists in thrall to their American counterparts. In so doing, however, the director runs the risk of seriously underestimating the methods and character of the German ruling elite, which has been trying to achieve greater independence from the US since the reunification of Germany in 1989-1990 and is once again flexing its ruthless imperialist muscles.

In that process, the ruling class draws upon the traditions of Nazism. The BND itself emerged from the Gehlen Organisation (1946-1956), named for Reinhard Gehlen, Hitlers chief intelligence officer on the Eastern Front in World War II. After the war, he was recruited by the CIA and headed German intelligence from 1956 to 1968 in close cooperation with US intelligence.

The US bombardment and invasion of Iraq war began a month after Powells testimony. Nabers film ends with statistics detailing the massive loss of Iraqi lives in the subsequent carnage, a mass murder for which Germany also bears direct responsibility.

Operation Curveballs end credits also note that The head of the state chancellery at that time is the current federal presidenti.e., the Social Democrat Steinmeier. This credit was greeted with loud applause from the Berlin festival audience who clearly approved of this unmasking of Germanys leading sanctimonious warmonger.
A unionization effort has been underway since April at four Amazon facilities in New York Citys Staten Island. The organization behind the campaign, Amazon Labor Union (ALU), is seeking to unionize the 7,000 Amazon workers employed at the warehouses, which includes the main 855,000 square-foot Amazon fulfillment center servicing New York City, known as JFK8.

The ALU announced Monday it had collected the necessary 2,100 names (or 30 percent of the workforce) on union cards and had submitted a petition for a recognition vote with the National Labor Relations Board office in Brooklyn, New York. The ALU would need more than 50 percent of the votes in an election to be recognized as the official bargaining agent.

In this March 30, 2020 file photo, workers at Amazons fulfillment center in Staten Island gather outside to protest work conditions in the companys New York warehouse [Credit: AP Photo/Bebeto Matthews, File]

No doubt workers are looking for a way to fight. Amazon is infamous for its hyper-exploitation of workers, imposing brutal and unsafe working conditions in their warehouses around the world. These conditionslong shifts on your feet under strict surveillance, grueling productivity quotas, heavy lifting, limited bathroom breaks, etc.were only exacerbated throughout the pandemic, where workers have been packed into warehouses with minimum mitigation efforts, causing nearly 20,000 Amazon employees to get infected with COVID-19 during the first six months of the pandemic last year.

If the ALU were an organization that could unite Amazon workers and mobilize their collective strength against this corporate giant, the International Amazon Workers Voice (IAWV) would not hesitate to support it. But an examination of the forces behind the ALU makes it clear it has close connections to and is oriented toward the AFL-CIO unions and the Democratic Party, which are not friends, but enemies of Amazon workers.

The RWDSU debacle in Alabama

The leader of the ALU is former Amazon employee Chris Smalls, a former assistant manager at JFK8, who was fired in March 2020, for leading a walkout to protest the unsafe working conditions during the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Chris Smalls (in red) at New York City Labor Day event (Twitter/Christian Smalls @Shut_downAmazon)

The ALU was launched immediately following the overwhelming defeat of the unionization drive by the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU) at the BHM1 Amazon fulfillment center in Bessemer, Alabama. Although the RWDSU campaign had the backing of the Biden administration, leading Democrats and even some Republicans, the union managed to win the votes of only 13 percent of the Bessemer workforce.

Smalls supported the RWDSU campaign and traveled to Alabama to support it. After the overwhelming rejection by Bessemer workers, however, he joined several other labor activists who criticized the RWDSUs top-down approach. Instead of relying on celebrity endorsements and ad campaigns, they said, the RWDSU should have done more to engage Bessemer workers and give them a reason to back the union.

None of these after-the-fact critics pointed to the real cause of the RWDSUs defeat. After four decades of collusion with the corporations and government in the destruction of workers jobs and living standards, millions of workers are completely alienated from these pro-company organizations and see no reason to give them any money from their hard-earned paychecks.

In June, RWDSU President Stuart Appelbaum publicly backed Smalls effort to unionize the Staten Island facilities, telling the Guardian, I hope that Chris and others around the country will be successful. We look forward to supporting them. If Chris runs out of money, wed support them and not look for anything in return.

Smalls attempted to distance the ALU from the RWDSU, telling Jacobin, I didnt have a great experience with the union down there, so I was kind of surprised by Appelbaums quote in that article. Its good to know that they support us, but I think that were going to stay the completely independent route.

The ALU would have a better chance if it was independent and worker-led, he told Business Insider. That will build more confidence for workers that want to join because theyll be like, Hey look, this is something that is employee-driven, this is not a third party coming in, this is you guys creating your own union with your own set of rules and negotiations. I think thats more appealing to the worker.

In promoting the ALU as an independent union, its backers are acknowledging that the established trade unions are too discredited to win significant support from Amazon workers. However, the ALU is anything but independent.

The ALUs own website completely contradicts its claim of independence. We are supported by countless labor organizations, politicians, news media, and established unions, both in NYC and across the country. They all are offering their resources and expertise to make our dream a reality.

During its months-long campaign in Bessemer, the RWDSU never raised a single demand to Amazon, because it did not want to forfeit the support of the Democratic Party and Republicans like Florida Senator Marco Rubio.

For its part, the ALU has a brief list of demands on its web site, including, higher, more competitive wages, a return of stock awards and other bonuses, a reasonable increase to the amount of distributed Paid Time Off (PTO) and Vacation Time, as well as an end to the Unpaid Time Off (UPT) system. In addition, the ALU wants policy improvements, including, longer breaks, more reasonable rates, Covid protections, less mandatory overtime, building closures due to hazardous weather, better promotion policies and guaranteed holiday time off.

Amazon workers no doubt support many of these demands. But the ALU does not explain how it plans to achieve them. Instead, it says it will have the power to enter contract negotiations with the company, and suggests that the mere establishment of the union will lead to higher wages, protection from arbitrary firings and more. With a union, everything is on the table, the ALU states.

The real record of the unions

Such claims fly in the face of reality. Over the last four decades, when unions have been at the table, they have not negotiated for more, but imposed managements dictates that workers accept less.

The unions long ago abandoned any of the functions they were traditionally associated with. They do not fight over workers grievances, theyve abandoned the eight-hour day, theyve overseen and have been instrumental in the stagnation and decline of wages, and theyve kept workers on the job during the pandemic.

As the recent WSWS article,  Jacobin boosts Teamsters bureaucracys campaign to organize Amazon workers , noted, full-time UPS drivers start at only $21 an hour, just $1 more than Amazon drivers make. Inside part-time workers start at wages of $15.50 an hour or two-and-a-half dollars less than an Amazon workers $18 wage. To add insult to injury, UPS workers have union dues deducted from their paychecks by the Teamsters, which imposed these terms in the 2018 contract by overriding the no vote of the majority of UPS workers.

It is noteworthy that Smalls praised the decision of the Teamsters bureaucracy to launch a unionizing drive at Amazon. We encourage them to try their efforts, he said on the podcast The Checkout. Smalls added that he hoped other unions that have been here that are established will also support us and join us in our efforts.

The backers of the ALU are not the first to announce that they were building a strong, effective and democratic union. The Teamsters for a Democratic Union (TDU) and other union reform movements have spent decades making these claims, only to be integrated into the corrupt labor bureaucracy. Like the ALU they claimed workers could defend their interests through militancy, while subordinating the working class to the pro-capitalist and nationalist framework of the unions and their political subordination of the working class to the Democratic Party.

After decades in which the unions suppressed the class struggle, the conflict between rank-and-file workers and the corporatist unions has reached a boiling point. Since the beginning of the year, Alabama coal miners and workers at Volvo Trucks, Frito-Lay, Deere and Dana have cast near unanimous no votes against union-backed contracts. This movement has now erupted into what is developing to be the largest strike wave by US workers in generations.

The way forward for Amazon workers

A genuine struggle by Amazon workers to improve their wages and conditions will immediately throw them into battle against the entire trade union apparatus, along with the corporate-controlled Democrats and Republicans, which have overseen a decades-long transfer of wealth from the working class to billionaires like Jeff Bezos. The ALU's dependence on the unions and the Democratic Party precludes it from conducting any serious struggle that threatened these relations.

There is nothing the American ruling class fears more than the emergence of a movement of the working class that is not controlled by the trade union apparatus. This is particularly true for the half million Amazon workers in the US who have the power to impose a chokehold on a global supply chain already facing a crisis due to the pandemic, labor shortages and threats of strikes by logistics workers. The Biden administration is promoting the corporatist trade unions in a last-ditch effort to contain and strangle this emerging movement of the working class.

An independent workers movement means, above all, a complete break from the Democrats and the trade unions. The material and political interests of politicians in both capitalist parties of big business and of war, along with the interests of their well-paid crony counterparts in the trade union bureaucracy, stand diametrically opposed to the interests of the vast working class.

The ALU calls for no such break from these bitter enemies of workers. Creating new trade unions with the same pro-capitalist and nationalist orientation and in collaboration with the established ones will not offer workers any solutions.

The rising opposition of workers is undoubtedly in the direction of independence, yet new traps, such as the ALU and the Democratic Socialists of America-aligned Amazonians United, are being laid to try and fool workers with more worker driven organizing campaigns, capture growing opposition within the unions and cover over basic political issues.

Whatever the outcome of a future vote, the International Amazon Workers Voice (IAWV) urges workers at JFK8 and other facilities to build rank-and-file committees, which are genuinely independent of the pro-corporate unions and both big business parties.

As the IAWV wrote on the eve of the Bessemer vote, a new orientation is needed. Where the unions promote corporatism and class collaboration, workers need an anti-capitalist perspective. Where the unions promote national chauvinism, working class internationalism is needed. Where the union proceeds from what management is willing to part with, workers must proceed from what they urgently require.

Rank-and-file committees must link up across workplaces, industries, and countries and fight to unify and mobilize the international working class in a counteroffensive against the capitalist system, which sacrifices every aspect of life, including life itself, for private profit.

Such a network is being built in the form of the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC). The World Socialist Web Site and the Socialist Equality Party, along with the International Amazon Workers Voice newsletter are assisting workers in the building of these interconnected network of committees of Amazon and logistics workerssuch as the Baltimore Amazon Workers Rank-and-File Safety Committee as well as autoworkers, educators and workers in other key industries. We urge all Amazon workers who agree with this perspective to take up this fight and contact us today!
Today the UK High Court begins a two-day hearing of a United States government appeal aimed at securing WikiLeaks founder Julian Assanges extradition to the US.

The hearing is the culmination of a campaign of rampant criminality by American imperialism and its allies, stretching over a decade. Its character is summed up in revelations during the last two years that Assange has been the subject of CIA plots for his surveillance, kidnap, and assassination.

Last month, Yahoo News reported that the Trump administration tasked the CIA with drafting options for Assanges murder. Sketches were drawn up and conversations held on whether killing Assange was possible and whether it was legal. In the event of Assanges attempted escape from the embassy, possibly aided by Russian agents, the UK government had agreed to do the shooting if gunfire was required.

Julian Assange being dragged out of the Ecuadorean embassy in London, April 2019

In 2019, it emerged that UC Global, the security firm at Ecuadors embassy in London where Assange claimed asylum for nearly seven years, had been working with American intelligence to spy on the WikiLeaks founder and his associates. Last year, during Assanges extradition hearing, evidence was given by a former employee of UC Global that plans were discussed to kidnap or poison him in the embassy.

Such relentless state persecution is payback for Assanges courageous role in exposing the war crimes by the US, British and Australian governments in Iraq and Afghanistan. WikiLeaks collateral murder video, Afghan War Diaries, Iraq War Logs and Cablegate releases galvanised mass popular opposition to war, torture, and state repression worldwide.

The imperialist powers murderous agenda has been backed by a pseudo-legal witch-hunt against Assange, including the impanelling of a secret Grand Jury that indicted him in 2019, and Swedens manufactured sexual assault investigation into the WikiLeaks founder. The Australian government refused any defence of its citizen.

Assange has suffered arbitrary detention, psychological torture, revocation of his Ecuadorian asylum and citizenship, and vindictive sentencing and imprisonment in Belmarsh maximum-security prison. He has been detained on remand without charge, repeatedly and unjustifiably denied bail and subject to relentless attacks on his right to legal representation. The case against him has trampled due process and the factual record and made use of the admitted fabrications, given in exchange for US immunity, of hacker, convicted fraudster and sex offender Sigurdur Thordarson.

By every conceivable legal standard Assange should not only win his case, but have it thrown out of court. The US is appealing a decision that Assange cannot be extradited due to his risk of suicide in America. Now the extradition is openly exposed as a plot to put him in the hands of his would-be murderers.

However, the UK court is not considering matters of law or human rights in this case. The decision before the judges is whether Britain can be seen to rubber stamp what amounts to the extraordinary rendition of the most significant journalist of the 21st century.

The path for Assanges extradition has been laid by Britains judiciary. In January, amid open preparations for a fascist coup by Trump, District Court Judge Vanessa Baraitser delivered a ruling designed to leave Assanges fate hanging by a single thread. Accepting every rotten plank of the US governments extradition request, she objected solely on medical grounds, finding that Assange is likely to suicide if extradited.

Baraitsers intentions were clear. She refused to release Assange from prison, keeping him in Belmarsh until the American government made its appeal. The US has since taken the highly unusual step of offering worthless assurances on Assanges treatment and been granted grounds to appeal the legitimacy of medical evidence provided to the court by an experienced and respected psychiatric expert.

Baraitsers original ruling also set the tone for the High Courts response to Yahoos CIA revelations, which will form a major element of the defence case this week. Responding to arguments concerning UC Global-CIA spying on privileged legal conversations, Baraitser stated that she could not reach a judgement on whether US surveillance had taken place. She then added that even if it had occurred, there is no reason to assume this related to these proceedings and that the fruits of any surveillance would not be seen by prosecutors assigned to the case.

Whichever decision the High Court arrives at on this occasion, Assange faces continued prolonged imprisonment. A ruling is not expected for several months and would be followed either way by legal challenges. His partner Stella Moris has warned that Assange could face years more incarceration if he is not swiftly extradited, possibly as soon as next summer. Both prospects, she said, are terrifying. Either outcome will see Assange silenced, his life placed in jeopardy. Moris explained that he was looking very unwell during her prison visit last weekend.

The Assange case rides roughshod over legal and democratic principles because his persecution is a matter of fundamental political and strategic interest to the worlds leading imperialist power. From the beginning, the US and its allies have sought to destroy Assange both as a warning and a precedent to prevent any serious reporting of imperialist war crimes, human rights abuses, diplomatic intrigues and mass state surveillanceto cover up past crimes and to prepare new ones.

These motivations have only strengthened. The danger of war, on a scale which would dwarf the atrocities carried out in the imperialist invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan, continues to grow as the US ramps up its aggression against China in Taiwan and the South China Sea. Provocations abroad are coupled with big lie propaganda at home, including baseless accusations of a Wuhan Lab origin of COVID-19, and of genocide against the Uyghur population of Xinjiang.

Meanwhile, the worlds governments are engaged in unprecedented criminality and corruption in their handling of the pandemic, which reasonable estimates suggest has claimed between 10 and 19 million lives.

A freely functioning WikiLeaks, described by Assange as an intelligence agency of the people, or anything like it cannot be allowed by the imperialist powers to exist in such a world. Their biggest fear is that future exposures could help ignite the enormous oppositional sentiment that exists in the working class in every country. If Assange is to be freed and defended, it is this social force which must be mobilised.

Immense resources have been deployed in the Assange manhunt, which has proceeded with the blessing of every imperialist government and major political party in the world. The corporate media have either actively backed his persecution or attempted to smother knowledge of the case while formally opposing Assanges extradition. The explosive Yahoo and Thordarson revelations went practically unreported.

Moral appeals to these forces, or fond hopes in the eventual wisdom of the UK judiciary, of the kind promoted by the official Dont Extradite Assange campaign, are worse than useless. Attempts to put forward handfuls of tame parliamentary representatives and activists as an opposition to this vast conspiracy are a cruel farce. These figures are epitomised by Jeremy Corbyn, who as Labour leader did nothing to defend Assange and will mobilise no one now.

A mass campaign to free Assange must be based on an appeal to the international working class, for whom the struggle against imperialism, its wars and social inequality, is a life-and-death question. The cost of the pandemic and the ruling classs murderous response in human lives, wages and conditions is driving a global wave of working-class struggle, with the US at its centre.

More legal appeals are open to both sides following today and tomorrows hearing, but all require the agreement of the courts and would almost certainly mean lengthy additional imprisonment for Assange if granted. Averting a railroaded extradition process and ending the continued isolation of Assange and destruction of his health in Belmarsh requires the urgent, organised intervention of workers all over the world.
Earlier this month, the White House announced that the COVID-19 restrictions placed into effect in March 2020 that effectively barred international travel to the United States would be lifted on November 8, 2021, to all fully vaccinated foreign visitors.

A student listens to the teacher's instructions at iPrep Academy on the first day of school in Miami [Credit: AP Photo/Lynne Sladky, File]

White House spokesman Kevin Munoz confirmed the lifting of the ban on Twitter after the pronouncement, writing on October 15 that the US new travel policy that requires vaccination for foreign travelers to the United States will begin on November 8. This announcement and date apply to both international air travel and land travel.

For all practical purposes, the announcement ushers in a complete end to any mitigation attempts to check the spread of the virus and inaugurates the concept of allowing the virus to become endemic like the influenza virus.

The call for the shift in policy was undoubtedly coordinated to coincide with the decline in recent cases and hospitalizations, which garnered national attention. Last month more than 1,700 people were dying each day. The healthcare systems from the South through the mid-West into the mountain regions were inundated with patients. Some states were enacting crisis standards of care that limited emergency healthcare measures to those deemed to have best chance of surviving.

More than 11 million people were infected in the last wave. More than 120,000 died. Still, daily new cases remain above 60,000 per day, and more than 1,200 people are dying each day from COVID. Presently, more than 46 million have reportedly been infected, and more than three-quarter million have perished.

Yet, the lobbying groups representing airlines have been clamoring incessantly for months for lifting these bans.

Not surprisingly, with the declaration to lift the travel restrictions, the stock prices for all the major airlines took off. In an email statement, Jonathan Root, senior vice president at Moodys Investors Services, wrote, Leisure bookings for the holidays from inbound tourist visits and non-US citizens visiting friends and relatives will accelerate in upcoming weeks. We also now expect a stronger increase in business travel by the first quarter of 2022 than would have occurred if the borders remained closed.

Nicholas Calio, president of Airlines for America, the lobbying group for the major US carriers, cheered Bidens decision, adding The full reopening of international travel is also critical to reviving economies around the globe,

In an attempt to cover for the deranged policy that will further the global transmission of the coronavirus, the Biden administration is promising that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) will require airlines to collect and pass on information on passengers to aid contact tracing.

White House Coronavirus Response Coordinator Jeff Zients said at a press conference, In the coming weeks, CDC will be issuing a contact tracing order requiring airlines to collect current information for each US-bound traveler, including their phone number and email address.

Contact tracing infrastructure in the United States is largely non-existent. Rather than bolstering the efforts of public health departments across the country to assist them during the pandemic, the federal and state governments have all been gutted through years of attrition. There have been widespread defections by public health officials due to aggressions and threats made against them by right-wing organizations. Having served years in their capacity, many of these same officials report being entirely spent and severely depressed. Funding has been vastly erodedtheir authority to impose health orders removedthese hollow public health institutions stand in name only.

Adrian Casalotti, chief of public and government affairs for the National Association of County and City Health Officials, an organization representing the nearly 3,000 local health departments across the nation, told the New York Times, We have learned all the wrong lessons from the pandemic. We are attacking and removing authority from the people who are trying to protect us.

By contrast, while the public health infrastructure was caving in, the airline industry was being buoyed by federal aid to the tune of over $74 billion in government relief.

The rule in effect means that on November 8, any adult eligible to receive the vaccine must have been fully inoculated with a vaccine that has received emergency use listing by the World Health Organization and proof of this vaccination before entering the US. Children under 18, however, will be exempt from these requirements, which poses a significant public health risk.

The United States will also be opening air travel to individuals from the so-called Schengen countries, European countries that have officially abolished controls between their mutual borders. These include Germany, Italy, Spain, France, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Poland, etc.

Last week Europe had 1.67 million new cases of COVID-19, a weekly increase of 251,000 or a 17.7 percent increase from the previous week. Cases have been climbing for four straight weeks even though many of these countries have surpassed the US in the number of fully vaccinated individuals. These developments have significant implications for a virus that has kept pace with the rising tides of infection and vaccinations. As it stands, the globe is beginning the sixth wave of the pandemic.

The case of the UK is worth reviewing. With 68 percent of its population fully vaccinated and one-sixth previously infected, the country is reporting more than 46,000 daily cases of COVID-19, highlighting the difficulty of ever achieving herd immunity. They are also facing the rise in a new lineage of the Delta variant called AY.4. It is beginning to displace Delta, accounting for 62.4 percent of sequenced COVID-19 cases in the last 28 days.

At present, there are 75 AY lineages, each with specific mutations that have been identified, and their numbers continue to increase. AY.4.2, a sub-lineage of AY.4, was first discovered in June but came to researchers attention in September. In four weeks, it rose to account for ten percent of all UK cases. Two additional mutations involving its spike protein may have made it slightly more transmissible than Delta. Researchers, however, suspect that one of these mutations gives it even more ability to escape immunity by making its spike region less recognizable by antibodies.

They admit it remains too early to say if it will become a dominant strain of the coronavirus. But in the context of a complete resumption of global air travel with a billion or two more people traveling to every region of the globe in 2022, it seems every advantage is being forwarded to the virus.
Canadas Liberal minority government has effectively eliminated all emergency pandemic financial support for unemployed workers, with the aim of enforcing big business drive to increase economic output and profits amid the countrys fourth wave of COVID-19 infections and deaths.

The more than 800,000 workers who have been receiving the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), which paid up to $400 a week to those either jobless or with sharply reduced working hours, have had the rug pulled out from under them. Many are now threatened with destitution, even hunger and homelessness.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Flanked by Prime Minster Justin Trudeau, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland told a press conference last Thursday that the CRB would not be further extended. Consequently, last week is the final week for which CRB payments will be made. This callous decision will impact those ineligible for employment insurancethat is, largely younger workers and those who were employed in the so-called gig economy.

Freeland announced the CRB would be replaced by a new benefit, but this is nothing more than a sham. The new benefit has been expressly designed to make it all but impossible for jobless or underemployed workers to obtain a single cent in future government assistance, even as the COVID-19 pandemic rages across the country. For her part, Freeland said the goal of the changes is to make government support more narrow, more targeted and less expensive.

The Liberals Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit will provide a meagre $300 per week and only to workers who cannot go to work during a provincially ordered pandemic lockdown. Under these terms, none of the more than 800,000 people receiving CRB benefits last week will be eligible for the Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit once, weeks hence, it gets parliamentary sanction. Nor would they or any other workers likely ever be eligible, since the provincial governments have uniformly vowed not to reimpose lockdowns no matter how high COVID-19 infections and deaths rise.

In comments to CTV News, Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough emphasized that workers would only be eligible for the benefit under a complete lockdown. Anyone losing their job due to the tightening of public health restrictions short of a complete lockdown will get nothing.

Although Canada continues to record almost 3,000 new infections per day and almost 2,000 people have died of COVID since September 1, governments across the country are once again rushing to remove any and all public health restrictions as they double-down on the ruling classs homicidal live with the virus strategy. Yesterday, John Horgans trade union-backed New Democratic Party government in BC and Doug Fords hard-right Conservative government in Ontario lifted virtually all capacity restrictions in indoor settings. In announcing its latest rollback of COVID restrictions, the Ontario government stressed its aim is to continue aggressively removing public health measures, with all of them, including mask mandates, ended by March 2022.

Fords plans to abolish all COVID restrictions seem to complement what is occurring federallyi.e., both underpin the corporate drive to churn out bigger profitsobserved an Ottawa Citizen editorial Saturday. Now that the federal government is ending COVID relief programs such as the Canada Recovery Benefit, the Citizen continued, it is possible more people who depended on such subsidies will seek work. As Ontario loosens restrictions on small business, demand for employees will rise. All of this, presumably, will be good for the economy.

The criminal character of the ruling elites drive to deprive workers of any financial support to force them to accept dangerous low-paid jobs, where they will face a high risk of infecting themselves and their loved ones, is underscored by the ongoing progression of the pandemic. One day prior to Freelands announcement, Saskatchewans chief medical health officer, Dr. Saqib Shahab, broke down in tears as he informed the provinces residents that his agencys modelling shows that the number of intensive care patients infected with COVID-19 could more than double by the new year. Saskatchewan is already sending patients to Ontario due to a lack of health care staff and beds. In neighbouring Alberta, where some hospitals were forced to deny care to patients deemed least likely to survive over recent weeks, the COVID-19 fatality rate is three times higher than for the rest of Canada. According to Worldometers, 765 people are currently in critical condition across the country, and the death toll reached 28,750 Monday.

Corporate Canada and its political representatives are positively revelling in this mass death, applauding the Liberal government for scrapping the last vestiges of financial support for workers. Big business had long complained that the CRB was overly generous and blamed it for the staff shortages, especially in the low-wage restaurant, hospitality and retail sectors. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce declared Freelands announcement the fair thing to do for businesses. It praised the fact that while financial supports for workers were effectively removed, companies that hire new employees can continue to receive a subsidy worth 50 percent of their salary costs until May 2022.

The official opposition Conservatives, who have long echoed business complaints about the CRB, were likewise full of praise. The Prime Minister followed (party leader Erin) OTooles fiscal plan and announced that the CRB would be ending, said Tory finance critic Ed Fast, before going on to demand that Trudeau halt his governments out of control spending.

The reality is that the big business Liberals, together with their allies in the trade unions and NDP, have been working throughout the pandemic to protect the interests of big business at the expense of the working class. The Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), the CRBs predecessor, extended a pittance of $500 per week to workers laid off following the outbreak of the pandemic. This program, touted as generous by NDP leader Jagmeet Singh and Canadian Labour Congress head Hassan Yussuff, was a drop in the bucket compared to the more than $650 billion forked over to the banks and big business by the Trudeau Liberal government in March 2020. This unprecedented bailout of Canadas financial oligarchy led to the accumulation of fabulous quantities of wealth, with the countrys super-rich billionaires becoming $78 billion richer during the pandemics first year.

Last fall, the Trudeau government took the first step in scrapping financial support for workers by replacing the CERB with the CRB. Initially, the government planned to accompany this change by slashing benefit payments from the already inadequate $500 per week to just $400. However, faced with the rapidly accelerating second wave of the pandemic, which was the product of the reopening of the economy and schools pursued by all provincial governments and overseen by Trudeau, the Liberals backtracked and maintained the $500-a-week payments until the spring. In their 2021 budget, they cut CRB payments to $400 a week, a move which secured the needed majority parliamentary support thanks to the votes of the New Democrats.

No such fiscal prudence, to use Freelands corporate jargon, is exercised when dealing with Canadas wealthy elite. The Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy, which also expired last weekend, was a massive corporate slush fund that paid for bumper shareholder payouts and lavish executive salaries at many of the countrys leading businesses (see: Corporate Canada used governments pandemic emergency wage subsidy as slush fund).

There is also nothing new in Trudeaus partnership with hard-right provincial governments in implementing the ruling elites murderous open economy/open schools policy. In its September 2020 throne speech, which passed with NDP support, the Trudeau government called for any future anti-COVID lockdowns to be adopted at the local level and on a short-term basis. This gave the likes of Quebecs herd immunity-promoting premier, Francois Legault, and Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, who was describing COVID-19 as a flu as late as June 2020, a free hand to pursue a policy of mass infection and death.

In early July 2021, when Kenney declared that Alberta was open for summer and eliminated almost all public health measures, Trudeau and his Liberal government said and did nothing. Over two months later, when Albertas ICUs were already full to the brim with seriously ill patients, the prime minister cynically seized on Kenneys reckless reopening strategy to attack the federal Conservatives in the final days of the federal election campaign.

The scrapping of what little remained in the way of financial support for Canadian workers marks a further stage in the intimate collaboration between all Canadas parliamentary parties in enforcing the interests of the ruling elite during the pandemic. It and the recent joint US-Canadian naval provocation against China in the Taiwan Strait provide a foretaste of how ruthless the incoming Liberal minority government will be in attacking the rights and living standards of working people and in pursuing an aggressive foreign policy aimed at upholding the global interests of Canadian imperialism.

Today Trudeau is to announce the cabinet for his third term in office. Business lobby groups and media commentators have been clamouring for months about the need to make Canada more competitive and ready to take advantage of the economic recovery, code words for forcing workers to accept brutal exploitation, low wages, and next to no benefits and job protections. To make clear that he supports this agenda, Trudeau promptly announced after last months election that Freeland, a darling of the financial and corporate elite for her hawkish fiscal policies and virulent anti-Russia stance, will remain deputy prime minister and finance minister.

The aggressive class war program of big business and all its political representatives from Trudeau and Ford to Legault and Horgan is increasingly meeting with resistance from the working class. Like their counterparts in the United Stateswhere a massive strike wave among manufacturing, health care and other workers is being fuelled by decades of concession contracts and the corporate oligarchys prioritization of profits over human lives during the pandemicworkers across Canada have waged a series of militant strikes in recent months for improvements in wages and conditions. The mass protests which swept Alberta in opposition to the Kenney governments dismantling of public health measures also revealed the broad-based hostility to the ruling elites strategy of living with the virus.

The task now is to develop this widespread opposition into an industrial and political working-class counteroffensive to overturn the ruling class profit before lives pandemic policy, oppose rearmament and war, and fight for workers power. A pivotal first step in this fight is the mobilization of the working class to enforce an immediate shutdown of all nonessential business activity and in-class learning with full financial compensation for all workers, as part a strategy to eliminate COVID-19 in Canada and internationally.
Two right-wing activists who participated in planning and organizing the January 6 rally at the White House that preceded the attack on Congress have told a House Select Committee and Rolling Stone magazine that at least a dozen members of Congress, their staff, and several top White House aides were involved in the preparations.

The stunning series of allegations, as Rolling Stone described it, has been met by a wall of silence in the corporate media, and a similar blackout from leading Democrats, including President Bidenwhose election victory was the target of the January 6 attackas well as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, whose offices were ransacked and staff terrorized by the fascist attackers.

With the White House in the background, President Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Washington, Jan. 6, 2021 [Credit: AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File]

Rolling Stone said that the two insiders detailed explosive allegations that multiple members of Congress were intimately involved in planning both Trumps efforts to overturn his election loss and the Jan. 6 events that turned violent.

The magazines report would, if proven true, serve as the basis for expulsion from Congress and trial on serious felony charges of such Republican representatives as Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Andy Biggs and Paul Gosar of Arizona, Lauren Boebert of Colorado, Mo Brooks of Alabama, Madison Cawthorn of North Carolina, and Louie Gohmert of Texas.

Gosar in particular allegedly promised planners of the attack on Congress that Trump would issue a full pardon for anyone charged with a crime as a result of the events of January 6, a clear indication that both he and those he was speaking to were aware that what was coming was not a peaceful protest, but some form of criminal assault on the US Capitol.

The two sources named Thomas Van Flein, Gosars chief of staff, as a participant in conversations about a blanket pardon for those involved in the upcoming events. Van Flein is one of those named in the House Select Committees request for documents and communications from within the Trump administration about the events of January 6.

In addition to the two participants in the preparation of the January 6 attack who spoke to the committee and to Rolling Stone, a third participant spoke only to the magazine, and reportedly confirmed the account of the other two.

Rolling Stone reported: While there have been prior indications that members of Congress were involved, this is also the first account detailing their purported role and its scope. The two sources also claim they interacted with members of Trumps team, including former White House Chief of Staff Mark Meadows, who they describe as having had an opportunity to prevent the violence.

The two organizers identified long-time Trump aide Katrina Pierson, a participant in both the 2016 and 2020 presidential campaigns, as the main go-between between the presidents inner circle and the groups preparing action in the streets. Katrina was like our go-to girl, one told Rolling Stone. She was like our primary advocate. Pierson was a speaker at the January 6 rally outside the White House.

According to the report, Both sources also describe Trumps White House chief of staff, Mark Meadows, as someone who played a major role in the conversations surrounding the protests on Jan. 6. Meadows was subpoenaed by the House Select Committee along with top Trump counselor Stephen Bannon

Meadows was 100 percent made aware of what was going on, one activist told Rolling Stone. Hes also like a regular figure in these really tiny groups of national organizers.

The two activists who spoke to both the committee and to Rolling Stone claimed to have intended only to build a rally in front of the White House, which would be confined to the Ellipse, a park-like area behind the building. They said they were surprised when Trump concluded his speech to the crowd, which numbered about 10,000 people, with an appeal to march down Pennsylvania Avenue to the Capitol, where Congress was just beginning a joint session to formally receive and tabulate the Electoral College votes recording Bidens victory.

At the rally, Congressman Brooks was wearing body armor while he gave his speech, in which he declared, Today is the day American patriots start taking down names and kicking ass.

Brooks, Gosar and Biggs were all involved in the previous Stop the Steal rallies held in November and December, which were effectively dress rehearsals for the main event on January 6 and involved the mobilization of paramilitaries from groups like the Oath Keepers and the Proud Boys along with ordinary Trump supporters deluded by his claims that the presidential election had been stolen.

According to Rolling Stone, While it was already clear members of Congress played some role in the Jan. 6 events and similar rallies that occurred in the lead-up to that day, the two sources say they can provide new details about the members specific roles in these efforts. The sources plan to share that information with congressional investigators right away. While both sources say their communications with the Houses Jan. 6 committee thus far have been informal, they are expecting to testify publicly.

The House Select Committee declined to comment for the report. This is in keeping with the extremely low-key approach that has been taken by the committee chair, Bennie Thompson of Mississippi, and other leading Democrats on the panel, including Adam Schiff of California, the lead impeachment manager in 2020, and Jamie Raskin of Maryland, who was the lead impeachment manager earlier this year, on charges stemming from the January 6 attack.

The committee has issued a vast number of subpoenas, but there is no indication that the House Democratic leadership has the slightest interest in actually exposing the true dimensions of the coup plot which unfolded on January 6 and came very close to significantly disrupting the congressional certification of Bidens victory and Trumps defeat.

It is clear from numerous book-length exposes of the final days of the Trump administration, most recently Peril by Bob Woodward and Robert Costa, that Trump was counting on Vice President Mike Pence to block the certification of electoral votes from a half dozen contested statesArizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsinand either declare Trump the victor in the remaining 44 states, or throw the election into the House of Representatives, where the Republicans would have a narrow majority of state delegations. Either procedure would have produced a Trump victory.

Pences last-minute refusal to carry out this completely unconstitutional and illegal intervention in what is a purely ceremonial role left only violence as a means of shutting down the count of electoral votes. If the attackers had succeeded in capturing Pence, House Speaker Pelosi, or a number of representatives or senators, they could have bargained their lives in exchange for concessions from the Democrats on the extension of Trumps presidency, or even a full-scale overturning of Bidens election victory.

Like the proverbial iceberg, there is far more to the January 6 coup plot below the surface than has already been revealed. The exposure of the threats to democracy cannot be left to the capitalist media or the capitalist politicians of the Democratic Party because they have a vested interest in covering up the precarious state of bourgeois democracy. This task requires the independent political intervention of the working class.
Eugenia Torrealba, 70, came to Australia in 1987, after living under Augusto Pinochets military dictatorship for 14 years. With a background in medical sciences, she learnt English and studied social sciences at the University of South Australia and ultimately became a family relationship counsellor.

Eugenia Torrealba

Torrealba is an electoral member of the Socialist Equality Party (SEP) and joins in the SEPs campaign to defeat Australias anti-democratic electoral laws, which were rammed through parliament on August 26. As part of the campaign the SEP is holding a public meeting Sunday, October 31. Click here to register.

To join the SEP campaign against the legislation, sign up as an electoral member today.

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Eugenia was studying obstetrics and paediatrics at the University of Chile in Valparaiso when the Popular Unity government of Salvador Allende was toppled by a US-backed military coup detat in 1973.

That year I was elected as a head of the student union. The year before I was already working as the secretary of the union trying to make changes in allowing students to decide about subjects, but also promoting access to people with low incomes to study.

I was the only member of a political party at that school. It was called MAPU [Movimiento de Accion Popular UnitarioPopular Unitary Action Movement], but it doesnt exist anymore [following the ban on political parties after the coup]. The academics didnt like it at all. The doctors and dentists were very conservative, right-wing people, she told the WSWS.

I was living with my mums younger sister and her husband and children. My aunty and uncle were supporters of Allendes government and members of the Socialist Party of Chile. Our house was raided on the day of the coup, and they had orders to arrest all the adults. But they didnt arrest me because they thought I was a child. It was horrible, she continued.

Some people were taken by surprise, she said, because they thought that the army was apolitical and would not do anything. This was the line of the Popular Front government, that the military were the people in uniform.

The Communist Party has a lot to answer, twisting history, creating illusions and myths. All their nationalistic views, the promotion that you could build socialism from within the capitalist system and within one country. How can you? The nation-state is part of the capitalist system.

Allende didnt want to hear the working people who were organised. They were warning that the military was going to seize power. And he said no, no, no, and asked Pinochet himself, Do you think there is anything being plotted against me? But they did, and it was a big price that the people paid, she said.

Eugenia explained that her aunt was taken to La Esmeralda, an infamous Chilean naval ship that was used to torture political prisoners, and her uncle transported by ship to Pisagua, an internment camp in northern coastal Chile where many political prisoners were executed and or disappeared. While her aunt was released, her uncle remained a prisonerfirst in Pisagua and then in Valparaisountil 1975 when he fled during a brief period that allowed people to apply for exile.

Prisoners held at Chiles National Stadium after the 1973 coup

I stayed in Valparaiso in the period between my uncles arrest and his familys exile in 1975, Eugenia said. During that time, I got married and had kids but was not allowed to finish my studies because I was considered a danger to the entire security of the university. The mentality was, Anyone who is not with us is against us. Thats what they did with many young people.

Even in 1975, when I tried for the last time, I was given a piece of paper saying that my application to be reinstated was not accepted and was told by one functionary, Youre not too ugly, youre still good looking and you can find a husband. Why do you need to study? When I persisted another official said, If you want the reasons I can take you to the army barracks. So that was it.

While Eugenia met a representative of the Socialist Labour League (SLL), the forerunner of the SEP in Australia, during the early 1990s, she had already become aware of Trotsky while still living in Chile.

Im an exception to the rule because I never liked the Communist Party and secondly, somebody smuggled to me a couple of books by Leon Trotsky, in particular The Permanent Revolution. Me being a rational, logical and scientific person, this material all made sense.

All of the concepts that the SEP stands for: internationalism; for the working class, are things that can be difficult to comprehend for a lot of people because it challenges their preconceptions. But now with the pandemic you can see very clearly that it is a world crisis, not simply an issue for Australia or Chile, much less for Adelaide or Santiago. My world is part of the rest of the world.

You cannot disconnect yourself from what happens to the workers of China or Indonesia, etc. We have far more in common with the workers of the United States than we have with the US government, she said.

The US-led drive to war against China, she added, was Washington making external enemies to cover up the mess that capitalism has created in all countries. COVID has shown all the holes in the capitalist system; all the things that are supposed to be working are not working.

Referring to Australias new electoral laws, Eugenia said: Theyve sold us the sweet pill for a long time but theres no more sugar. Now theyre using the hard hand and increasing repression. These are very antidemocratic laws and show that Australia is not a democracy.

Democracy is not something that gets given to you and stays there, as we in Chile know very well. Under capitalism, they go from being apparently democratic to using more repressive ways of ruling because they dont want change. Unless you change the whole system that is centred on profit-making, theres not going to be justice, theres not going to be better health and education.

Look at what the New South Wales premier is doing with COVID-19, hastening the opening up of borders. Hes saying, You get sick and die but I dont care as long as were making profit and anybody who says otherwise will be silenced.

The SEP, she concluded, needs to expand otherwise how can we change the whole situation. There needs to be a political party that has the clarity to be fighting against the political system at a world level. Its necessary to present these ideas to young people and encourage them to form rank-and-file committees and connect struggles with one another like the teachers in Britain.

A lot of things need to happen but theyre not going to happen if we go home and cry. They [the ruling elites] would like people to do nothing but thats not how you change a system and create a world of possibilities for our great grandchildren and our great, great grandchildren. That will be our heritage.
The giant Chinese property developer, Evergrande, has averted, at least for the present, possible lengthy legal proceedings. It came up with the money for an interest payment of $83.5 million on a dollar-denominated loan just a day before the expiration of a 30-day grace period on the payment of the debt last Saturday.

A screen displays the Hong Kong share index at the Hong Kong Stock Exchange Monday, Oct. 4, 2021 [Credit: AP Photo/Vincent Yu]

However, the payment does not mark the end of Evergrandes crisis. Another 30-day grace period for payment on a bond ends this Friday and the company has a further four interest payments on dollar loans due by the end of the year.

Next year it has a large amount of maturing debt falling due, both in dollars and renminbi, estimated to be $7.4 billion in dollar terms.

Last weeks payment was greeted as positive news by bond holders, but no one is holding out much hope that Evergrande will be able to secure the cash necessary to meet upcoming payments.

The payment looks like an attempt to kick the can down the road, one financial analyst told Bloomberg.

We have seen this before, another told the news agency, adding that the Evergrande payment does not solve the problem, and does not change the fact that it is the living dead.

The interest payments averted a situation where Evergrande would be formally in default, opening the way for bond holders to launch legal action to try to recover their debts. It bought some time for the company to seek cash through asset sales and a possible restructuring.

How successful that is remains to be seen. Chinese Estates Holdings, which had provided support for Evergrande, has been selling its shares and has said it could unload all its holdings.

The company made an effort to demonstrate it was still a going concern. It posted on social media that work has resumed at more than 10 projects in and around Shenzhen and in the Pearl River Delta area that were carried out in a steady, safe and orderly manner. It had previously announced that hundreds of its building projects had been suspended.

Evergrande has been hit from two directions. On the one hand, the rise in the Chinese property and housing marketon which its finances have dependedis slowing markedly, and even entering a downturn. On the other, the company cannot obtain the volume of credit it previously did because of tightened restrictions, known as the three red lines, introduced by the government last year.

Evergrande is a candle burning on both ends, it needs to address declines in revenue and at the same time find cash for looming repayments, Justin Tang, the head of Asian research at United First Partners told Bloomberg. Nothing short of a restructuring or white knight will do.

The problems are not confined to Evergrande. Chinese property developers Sinic and Fantasia have also missed payments and financial problems extend throughout the property sector with implications for the broader economy.

Data released last week showed a month-on-month decline in new home prices for 70 of Chinas biggest citiesthe first such fall in more than six years.

Michael Pettis, a well-known finance professor at Peking University, pointed to the problems for the entire economy in comments to the Financial Times (FT) last week.

In speculative markets, once prices stop going up, they tend to go down. If this were to happen to Chinese property prices, this would not only be terribly damaging to the banking system, but it would reverse the major source of wealth accumulation among Chinese households, he said.

How do social, financial and economic institutions adapt after 40 years of inexorably rising prices, during which the belief developed that Beijing will never let real estate prices fall?

The governments three red lines credit policy is an attempt to end the escalation of debt in the economy, which has more than doubled since the global financial crisis of 2008. It responded with a massive expansion of credit to finance the expansion of infrastructure and property development to ensure continued economic growth and the preservation of social stability.

Local governments were able to finance their infrastructure programs through revenues derived from land sales and by increased borrowings. However, Beijing is now attempting to bring about a vast shift under the banner of common prosperity promoted by President Xi Jinping.

Bloomberg reported that strategists at Bank of America have raised the prospect that Xi may even be embracing a once-in-two decades restructuring of the economy akin to Deng Xiaopings modernization of the late-1970s and Zhu Rongjis revamping of state-enterprises and finance in the late 1990s.

Deng was the instigator of the Chinese Communist Partys turn to the restoration of capitalism. Zhu deepened that process when, after opening the way to foreign investment in China, he cut back the state sector. This played a central role in ensuring US support for Chinas entry into the World Trade Organisation during the Clinton administration before final ratification in 2001.

In a report to clients last week, cited by Bloomberg, the Bank of America strategists said if the scale of Xis restructuring matched that of his predecessors the data flow from China could confound even the pessimists, and we are on guard for that scenario unfolding.

One of the main policies Xi is seeking to introduce is a property tax. It has two objectives: to lessen the reliance of local government authorities on rising land prices as a source of revenue and to dampen speculation in property.

Last Saturday Chinas state council announced it would expand pilot schemes to tax residential and commercial properties in cities. It did not disclose locations but said rural households would be excluded.

Despite having the support of Xi, who told planners in August to press ahead with it, the proposed tax is experiencing heavy going. As the FT noted, the proposed tax has pitched Xi against deeply entrenched vested interests across an economy fuelled for decades by real estate development.

Some opposition is based on the claim that it is too risky and could lead to a sharp fall in the housing market with the fallout hitting the rest of the economy. Other opposition arises from the direct interests of sections of the Chinese Communist Party.

Mark Williams, chief Asia economist at Capital Economics, told the FT: Opposition from insiders is not new. The correlation between party members and ownership of multiple properties is probably fairly high.
The ongoing record breaking rainfall in California, which started on Saturday, raises the danger of a potential megaflood.

While California suffers many devastating natural disasters, such as earthquakes, as well as wildfires and droughtswhich have repeatedly broken records in recent years under the influence of man-made climate changeamong the worst natural disasters to hit the western United States in the last 160 years was the Great Flood of 1862.

Lithograph of K Street in the city of Sacramento, Californiaduring the Great Flood of 1862

Set off by a series of storms that inundated much of the land from Oregon to San Diego, the agriculturally rich Central Valley became a vast inland sea, 300 miles long and 20 miles wide. The state capital in Sacramento was under water for six months, forcing the government to relocate to San Francisco. One-third of Californias state property was destroyed, along with one in every eight private homes.

Thousands of people died, possibly up to 1 percent of Californias entire population. And while floods of this magnitude used to happen every 200 years or so, models generated by Daniel Swain and researchers at UCLAs Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences found that they will now happen roughly every 65 years, due to the effects of climate change. Swain also predicts a 20 percent increase in the intensity of megastorms, meaning the next one could be far more devastating.

Worryingly, the period leading up to the Great Flood of 1862 was similar to today. The state was emerging from two decades of severe drought. Farmers and ranchers had been praying for a wet winter. At first, it looked like they would get what they wanted. The storms began in November, 1861, with weeks of snow at high elevations.

But then it started to rain. In California, it rained for 43 straight days, starting on Christmas Eve. Entire communities were swept away. Transportation, mail and communication across the state were disrupted for a month. Californias new governor, Leland Stanford, had to take a rowboat to get to his inauguration. In Nevada, the Carson Valley became a lake. In Idaho, the Boise River swelled to two miles wide, washing away portions of the Oregon Trail. The Colorado and Gila Rivers flooded in New Mexico Territory, turning Fort Yuma into an island.

A diagram of the flood areas of the December 1861January 1862 California Megastorm [Credit: USGS]

The flood also impacted the course of Californias economy. Prior to the storm, it had been dominated by cattle ranching in the Central Valley, run predominantly by Mexicans who had gained citizenship and land rights at the end of the Mexican-American War (18461848) under the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Those who survived the 20-year drought, saw their lands flooded and cattle drowned by the storms. One quarter of the states 800,000 head of cattle perished in the flood. The ranchers had to sell their land to Anglo settlers at pennies per acre. And the Anglo farmers began growing nuts, cotton and vegetables. Meanwhile, many of the Mexican ranchers were forced to become day laborers just to survive.

The event also influenced the course of wars. In New Mexico Territory, for example, the flooded Rio Grande impeded the California Column as it attempted to cut off the retreating Confederate Army of New Mexico, allowing them to escape into Texas. And in Californias Owens Valley, it brought the Paiutes, who were on the brink of starvation because the storms had decimated the wild game they relied on, into conflict with ranchers, who were trespassing on their lands to graze their herds. Over 200 Native Americans died in the Owens Valley Indian War (1862-1867), along with roughly 60 members of the California Militia.

Research indicates that storms of this magnitude have occurred roughly every 200 years in California, which means another is likely, possibly soon. The United States Geological Survey (USGS) examined sediment data from the San Francisco Bay Area, Santa Barbara basin, Sacramento Valley, and Klamath Mountain region, and found megafloods occurred in the years 212, 440, 603, 1029, c.1300, 1418, 1605, 1750, 1810, as well as 186162. Many were worse than the flood of 1862, especially the one in 1605, which researchers believe was 50 percent worse than any of the others.

The storms that caused these megafloods were the result of atmospheric rivers, thin belts of water vapor that hover about a mile above the Earths surface, extending thousands of miles over the sea. They originate in the tropics and carry as much water as 10 Mississippi Rivers. Weaker atmospheric rivers hit the California coast yearly, producing 3050 percent of the states rain and snow in just 10 days each year.

Even these minor atmospheric river events are significant. They cause more than 80 percent of the flooding in Californias rivers and 80 percent of the levee breaks that occur in the Central Valley. Another atmospheric river hit Northern California on Sunday, October 24, with a predicted three inches of rain in a single day and some areas seeing significantly more. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has declared a La Nina for the second winter in a row. Because La Ninas often bring increased rain to Northern California, this coming atmospheric river could be the beginning of a very wet winter.

According to climate models, global warming will increase the number of atmospheric rivers hitting California each year and they will carry more water than previous ones, increasing the intensity of megastorms. Some models predict that the odds of another megastorm like 1862 will at least double by 2100 due to the extra moisture caused by global warming. Swain says that if greenhouse gas emissions continue to increase at todays rate, the US could see a 30 to 127 percent increase in the number of people at risk from floods nationwide.

Even without the effects of climate change, the consequences of a megaflood today will be much more serious than they were in 1862, when California had only 500,000 residents. Today there are hundreds of communities and large cities in the Central Valley, with a combined population of 6.5 million people. The Sacramento area alone is home to more than 1 million people, while Fresno has over 500,000 people, and Bakersfield has nearly 400,000 residents. The Central Valley includes the flood plains of two major rivers, the Sacramento and the San Joaquin, as well as many smaller rivers that drain down from the Sierra Nevada mountains.

This is not just a problem for Californians, either. Another flood like the one in 1862 would have a dire impact on the availability and cost of food for everyone in the US. The Central Valley comprises less than 1 percent of all US farmland, yet it produces 25 percent of the nations food supply, including 90 percent of the broccoli, carrots, garlic, celery, grapes, tangerines and plums, as well as 40 percent of the lettuce, cabbage, oranges, peaches and peppers, and over 20 percent of the milk. That is $46 billion worth of food annually, double the next most agriculturally productive state in the US.

A megaflood would also be an ecological nightmare. There are 4 million cows in the state and a massive flood would severely pollute the soil and groundwater with rotting carcasses and concentrated manure from drowned cattle. The hundreds of millions of pounds of fertilizers and pesticides used in the state each year would be similarly thoroughly mixed into Californias broader ecology.

Oil spills are a further danger. Kern County, for example, is one of the nations most prolific oil-producing regions, generating 70 percent of Californias oil and more than double what the state of Louisiana produces. It also has two large refineries. A major flood would pull much of these toxins into the soil and ground water and quickly spread them throughout the flooded regions, potentially creating by far the biggest cleanup site in the nations history.

In 2005, in the wake of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, the US Army Corps of Engineers inspected Californias flood control infrastructure and found that many of its levees were built between 1850 and 1920, with outdated engineering criteria and only sporadic improvements since then. Sacramento, which is situated at the confluence of two major rivers, the Sacramento and the American, had levees designed for an 80-year flood. It was the most at-risk metropolitan area in the country at the time, with less than half the flood protection of New Orleans.

In 2009, the Multi Hazards Demonstration Project (MHDP) of the USGS examined Californias historical record for flooding, as well as its flood control infrastructure. From that data, they made a prediction of the likely effects of a 1-in-1,000-year storm event called ARkStorm (Atmospheric River 1,000 Storm). They found that an atmospheric river lasting just 23 days would cause more than $725 billion in damage to property, business and agriculture, three times the damage from a hypothetical super earthquake (i.e., the Big One). It would affect up to 25 percent of all California homes and disrupt power, water and sewage for months; 1.5 million people would have to evacuate. And it would likely lead to food shortages.

The California and federal governments have largely ignored these reports. The state has spent only $2 billion on Central Valley flood control improvements since 2007, much of it on refortifying hundreds of miles of substandard levees. In 2018, Californians passed Proposition 68, which allocated $4 billion for parks and water projects. While the majority of the funding went to parks and recreational projects, just $550 million was allocated for flood protection. Proposition 3, which would have allocated another $700 million to Central Valley flood protection and $300 million to dam renovations, was rejected by voters in 2018. Nevertheless, as a result of the investments that have gone toward flood protection, Sacramento is now a Class 2 FEMA community (2nd highest level of premium reductions by flood insurance companies). And Roseville, also in the Central Valley, is the first and only Class 1 FEMA community in the US.

Flooded roads in Southern California in 2018

The reality is, however, that California still needs an additional $80 billion in investment and three decades worth of work to bring the rest of the state up to todays flood safety standards. A 2017 analysis found that 50 percent of the urban levees in the Central Valley were not up to current engineering standards. And most of the rural communities in the Central Valley still had not received any funding to shore up their flood protections. The states dams are also in deplorable condition and are on average 70 years old.

The ARkStorm report warned that spillways could fail in a megastorm. A harbinger of this came during the 2017 AR event, when the Oroville Dams spillway failed and 188,000 people had to be evacuated, some on only a few minutes notice. That year was Northern Californias wettest winter in 100 years and the flooding resulted in $1.5 billion in damage. Yet, it was still a mild winter compared with 1862.

There are 26 dams in California with extremely high downstream risk, meaning hundreds of thousands, or millions, of people could be affected by a failure of any one of them. History has shown the consequences of not shoring up dams for severe storm events and maintaining them to modern engineering standards. In 1975, Typhoon Nina produced so much rain that the Banquio and Shimantan Dams failed, killing 240,000 people in China and making 11 million homeless. A similar event in India killed 5,000 people in 1979. And in 1928, the St. Francis Dam, just 40 miles north of downtown Los Angeles, failed because of engineering flaws, killing at least 431 people. (In 1928, the population of Los Angeles County was only 10-20 percent of what it is today).

Though flood experts have known for decades about the threat of another megaflood, many regional flood managers, particularly in Los Angeles and Orange Counties, have argued that resources would be better spent on educating the public about the risks of living in a floodplain than on shoring up the states outdated dams and levees.

Many people who live in flood plains, however, cannot afford to move or put their homes on stilts. Many are living there precisely because of the skyrocketing rents and mortgages in the less flood-prone areas of San Francisco, San Jose, San Diego or Los Angeles, or because their jobs are there. And even if these workers did have the economic means to leave the area, such measures do nothing to protect against the catastrophic agricultural and ecological consequences of a megaflood.

Southern California is particularly at risk. During the 1862 flood, the Santa Ana, Los Angeles and San Gabriel rivers merged, creating an inland sea in Los Angeles and Orange Counties. In his book, Ecology of Fear, Mike Davis explains that residents were able to row from where the Los Angeles Civic Center is today to Newport Beach. Like the Central Valley, Los Angeles and Orange Counties were sparsely populated then. Now there are millions of people living in the floodplains of those two counties.

For a moment in history, it looked like development might not go the way it did. According to Davis, there were several developers, like the Olmsted Brothers, who, in the 1920s and 1930s, wanted to turn the Los Angeles River and adjacent plains into a green beltway, specifically for flood control and public recreation. They even called for the parklands to extend into low-income neighborhoods to benefit working class families. They envisioned retaining the broad natural channels of the alluvial plain as a nature preserve and as a sponge for the next flood. Instead, Southern Pacific Railroad, which owned much of the land, began the process of developing the area into a private subdivision, to the cheers of the Los Angeles Times and large speculators.

The flood of 1938 put a temporary damper on this speculative exuberance. Southern California got a years worth of rain in about two days, likely from an atmospheric river. Again, the Los Angeles, San Gabriel and Santa Ana Rivers merged, creating another inland sea. Up to 115 people died in that flood, while 5,600 homes were destroyed. In response, the US Army Corps of Engineers and other agencies began converting the Los Angeles River into a paved channel that would flush future storms out to sea. Reassured, the speculators returned and the housing boom resumed.

The channel is, however, only designed for a relatively small 50-year flood. A 100-year storm would likely flood 1,000 acres of adjacent lands, up to 18 feet deep in some places, affecting 3,300 parcels of land, including parts of Griffith Park, Glendale and Burbank. An ARkStorm would be far worse.

Like with the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists have known for decades about the risks of the next megaflood and government agencies have had ample opportunities to prepare. And as with the pandemic, there was very little done to prepare for such eventuality. It is up to the social force that will be most impacted by such devastating events, the working class, to fight for the resources and measures needed to avert such disasters and save lives.
On Friday, Israels Defence Minister Benny Gantz signed a military order declaring six of the most prominent Palestinian non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the occupied Palestinian territories terrorist organizations.

The decree is an attack on Palestinian human rights activists and the communities they represent, and on the local and international publics right to information about the situation in the occupied territories. The six NGOs have documented abuses by Israel, the Palestinian Authority (PA) and Hamas, and sought to defend Palestinian prisoners, farmworkers, women and children.

Gantz claimed, without providing any evidence, that they are part of an international network run by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), designated as a terrorist organisation by Israel, the US and the European Union (EU). Once one of the most important Palestinian organisations, the PFLP, which rejected the Oslo Accords in favour of a one state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict, views both the Fatah-led PA government in the West Bank and the Hamas government in Gaza as illegal because there have been no elections since 2006.

Palestinians evacuate a wounded man during clashes with Israeli security forces at the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in Jerusalem's Old City Monday, May 10, 2021. (AP Photo/Mahmoud Illean)

The military order asserted that the NGOs are controlled by senior leaders of the PFLP and employ its members, including some who had participated in terror activity. Furthermore, the order stated, they served as a central source of financing for the PFLP, having received large sums of money from European countries and international organisations.

Despite claiming to have unambiguous and cast in concrete evidence, Israel has not announced any plans for a criminal investigation. The six groups have two months to appeal the decision.

Gantzs edict, issued under Israels domestic anti-terrorism law of 2016, enables the authorities to close the NGOs offices, seize assets, arrest staff and even prohibit funding or public expressions of support for their activities.

Crucially, it serves to intimidate and prevent third parties and international organisations from funding or supporting them and their work, since Israeli counterterrorism law mandates jail terms not just for members of groups designated as terrorist organizations but also for people in Israel who express support for them. It is thus aimed at depriving the NGOs of their funding as international opposition to Israels criminal suppression of the Palestinians has grown.

The order is explicitly aimed at human rights organisations that have played a major role in exposing the crimes committed by the military, security, police and intelligence forces against the Palestinians, as well as right-wing Jewish settlers violent and murderous attacks on Palestinians in the West Bank. The six organizations include:

Addameer, which offers legal aid to Palestinians in Israeli prisons, collects information on prisoners and the conditions of their incarceration, campaigns against practices such as administrative detention without trial, torture and solitary confinement by the Israeli authorities.

Al-Haq, which compiles reports on human rights violations in the occupied territories by both Israel and the PA and has published reports on torture in PA prisons and the lack of freedom of expression in Palestinian society.

The Bisan Center, which has criticized the impact of the Israeli occupation on poverty in the West Bank and the PA's neoliberal policies.

Defense for Children International Palestine, a branch of the Geneva-based Defense for Children, which provides aid to children being tried in Israeli military courts and researches children imprisoned by Israel, numbering 200, and the impact of the occupation on childrens rights.

The Union of Palestinian Womens Committees, which trains women to take part in politics, helps establish cooperatives and offers legal and psychological aid to women.

The Union of Agricultural Work Committees, which seeks to promote farmers steadfastness and sustainable livelihoods and aids Palestinian farmersmainly in Area C of the West Bank that is under Israeli military control and home to the vast majority of the Israeli settlementswho have been subject to years of harassment by settlers with the active support of the Israeli army.

Israels decision has been condemned by human rights organisations including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and Israels BTselem. The UN Human Rights Office in the occupied Palestinian territories issued a statement saying, Counter-terrorism legislation must not be used to constrain legitimate human rights and humanitarian work. It described the reasons cited by Gantz as vague or irrelevant and his decision as the latest move in a long-stigmatising campaign against the Palestinian NGOs.

The PA called the military edict an unhinged assault on Palestinian civil society. Its statement said, This fallacious and libelous slander is a strategic assault on Palestinian civil society and the Palestinian peoples fundamental right to oppose Israels illegal occupation and expose its continuing crimes.

None of the Palestinian organisations has yet issued a response.

The major powers, including the US, Germany, Britain, France, and India, as well as Greece, that are currently participating in joint aerial exercises with Israel, have studiously avoided condemning Israels action.

The US State Department, Israels puppet master, issued a hypocritical, pro forma statement about the importance of human rights, emphasising it had not been informed about the measure and would request more information about the designations.

The EU, which claims to support the Palestinians human rights and has funded some of the NGOs while supplying Israel with weaponry, has remained silent on the issue. Similarly, the UK, which is cracking down on support for the Palestinians on university campuses under the pretext of fighting anti-Semitism, has said nothing.

Within Israel, BTselem and more than 20 NGOs ran a front-page ad in Haaretz stating, Criminalizing human rights organizations is a cowardly act that is characteristic of oppressive authoritarian regimes and pointing out that Over the years, Israel has consistently framed any Palestinian move that was not a surrender to apartheid and occupation as terrorism.

This latest escalation follows a long line of efforts to suppress protesters, activists, community organizers, lawyers and journalists in Palestine, Israel and internationally who seek to expose, challenge and sanction Israels human rights abuses. Israels ministry of strategic affairs, working with far-right nationalist forces and settler groups, has targeted and slandered Palestinian NGOs with claims of corruption and misuse of funds, clamped down on their finances, denied entry to their employees and international co-thinkers and raided their offices.

Last July, Israeli security forces broke into the offices of Defense for Children International and the Bisan Center for Research and Development, confiscating equipment and files, while Addameer has for years faced countless raids on its offices that have involved the damage or theft of equipment and files.

As Al-Haq points out, It is no coincidence that Israels recent escalation of punitive measures against Al-Haq and fellow civil society organisations has come in the immediate aftermath of the opening of an International Criminal Court (ICC) investigation into Israels crimes in the Situation in Palestine.

Some of the six groups played an important role in the campaign to prosecute Israeli leaders at the ICC that culminated in the ruling last March by then ICC Prosecutor Fatou Bensouda that there was enough preliminary evidence to justify an investigation into possible war crimes in the Palestinian territories. Israel has refused to cooperate with the inquiry. By designating these groups as terrorist, Israel is seeking to undermine the case and their witness statements in the eyes of the court.

The outlawing of human rights groups and persecution of humanitarian activists follows Israels decades-long suppression of the Palestinians that has included collective punishment, house demolitions, deportations, detention without trial, torture, targeted assassinations and most recently the denial of COVID-19 vaccinations. This, along with legislation establishing an apartheid state, confirms that Israel has repudiated all the limited characteristics of bourgeois democracy.

It demonstrates that it is impossible for Israels financial and political elite to maintain even the semblance of democratic rule while illegally occupying Palestinian land and the Golan Heights, discriminating against their own Palestinian citizens and systematically impoverishing the vast majority of Jewish and Palestinian Israelis.
Political jostling and maneuvering are at a fever pitch in the Philippines, as the November 15 deadline for withdrawals and substitutions of candidates in the 2022 presidential election approaches. Campaigns are being run by a collection of scoundrels and reactionaries in what is proving to be the most right-wing election in the countrys history. All of the various Stalinist and pseudo-left organizations have thrown themselves into the mix, adapting to the general atmosphere of reaction.

The current front-runner in early polling is Ferdinand Marcos Jr., son of the former dictator who ruled the country in a brutal martial law regime in the 1970s and early 1980s. Marcos represents an explicit continuation and escalation of the repressive policies of the outgoing administration of Rodrigo Duterte.

Former senator Ferdinand Bongbong Marcos Jr. speaks to reporters after filing his certificate of candidacy for next year's presidential elections in Manila, Philippines Wednesday, Oct. 2, 2021 [Credit: Rouelle Umali/Pool Photo via AP]

He has launched a well-funded campaign of disinformation in both mainstream and social media aimed at rehabilitating the martial law period of his parents rule. Armies of online trolls churn out lies on a daily basis depicting the Marcos regime as a golden era in Philippine history. Next year 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of the imposition of martial law. Marcos Jr has declared that he will overhaul the countrys textbooks on the dictatorship if he is elected.

Marcos continues the policies of the current Duterte administration in another respect. Over the course of his presidency, Duterte dramatically reoriented Philippine diplomatic and economic ties away from Washington and toward Beijing. In an interview with ABS-CBN, Marcos declared that he intended to continue Dutertes China policy.

Over the weekend, Marcos met with possible presidential candidate Sarah Duterte-Carpio, daughter of President Duterte, in Cebu City. They spoke extensively and posed for photographs flashing the V for victory gesture of the Marcos campaign and the extended fist salute of Duterte.

Duterte-Carpio told the media that their meeting was held to discuss how Davao, the city where she is mayor, could best support the Marcos campaign. It is widely speculated, however, that the possibility of a tandem campaignin which one would run for president, the other vice presidentwas being discussed.

The degree of criminality and murder represented by the social forces around these two campaigns, as they smiled and posed for the press, is perhaps without precedent in this countrys bloody history. A formal alliance between the camps of Duterte and Marcos is highly plausible, but it is also possible that Duterte-Carpio is contemplating a separate bid for president.

Senator Ronald dela Rosa, who is currently the presidential candidate of President Dutertes PDP-Laban party, is widely speculated to be a placeholder for Duterte-Carpio. Dela Rosa has repeatedly declared that he is ready to drop out and offer her his slot if Duterte-Carpio decided to run for president.

Duterte-Carpio is currently running for re-election in the southern city of Davao, where she succeeded her father as mayor. Dela Rosa met privately with Duterte-Carpio on Monday at Davao City Hall. Asked afterwards about the substance of their meeting, dela Rosa responded, I just reminded her that November 15 is fast approaching.

A critical consideration of the dela Rosa campaign is to protect himself and the outgoing administration from charges now being raised in the International Criminal Court (ICC) of crimes against humanity for the brutal conduct of its war on drugs.

Dela Rosa, as head of the Philippine National Police (PNP), was the architect and implementer of the Duterte administrations strategy of state sanctioned mass murder. Official police data report over 6,100 suspects were killed by the police in the past five years. If one includes those killed by paramilitary death squads overseen and often paid by the police, the death toll is over 30,000.

President Duterte, speaking to his anti-Communist taskforce, a formal government body, declared that dela Rosa was getting nervous I told him not to worry. Dela Rosa told ABS-CBN news in a recent interview that he will move to protect President Duterte and himself from the investigation by the ICC if elected president.

In the three weeks that remain before the November 15 deadline, it is expected that campaigns will merge, candidates drop out and take up new positions. With an eye to not being left out of the spoils, most of the various candidates for the senate are simultaneous running on multiple slates.

The leading candidate of the bourgeois opposition to Duterte is Liberal Party head and current Vice President Leni Robredo. Her senatorial slate reveals the right-wing character of her election campaign. Among her senatorial candidates is Antonio Trillanes of the far-right Magdalo party, who was responsible for multiple military coup attempts in the past two decades.

The names on Robredos slate include known scoundrels of long-standing: Richard Gordon, Miguel Zubiri, Francis Escudero, and Joel Villanueva, the corrupt son of a televangelistmembers of the landed elite, former Duterte supporters, and proponents of lowering the age of criminality.

Some of the members of Robredos slate are also running as candidates on the slate of Panfilo Lacson, a candidate known for being the head of the Marcos dictatorships torture apparatus. Two of her candidates, Zubiri and Binay, are running on three slatesRobredo, Lacson and Manny Pacquiao, the boxer and, until recently, key ally of Duterte.

Robredo announced that she was keeping the final, twelfth senatorial slot open to a candidate who represented the marginalized sector. All of the various left groupingsMakabayan [Nationalist] and Laban ng Masa [Fight of the masses] in particularpublicly stumbled over themselves to secure this slot.

In the end, Robredo selected Sonny Matula, president of the trade union umbrella group, Federation of Free Workers (FFW). The FFW is a right-wing organization, founded on anticommunism. It served as a source of unionized scab labor during major labor conflicts in the 1960s.

In 2016, the FFW staged an event to host Marcos Jr. during his run for vice president, giving him the stage to promote his campaign to the union membership. Matula issued a statement that First of all, [Marcos] fights for the security of tenure of workers in the Philippines.

Makabayan and the various other political organizations that share the Stalinist political line of the CPP failed to secure a slot on Robredos slate, despite a mass campaign demanding that their front-runner, Neri Colmenares, to be included.

Unwilling to even posture as an independent candidate, Colmenares told the press that he is not ruling out the possibility of working with Vice President Leni Robredo despite his exclusion from her senatorial line-up for the 2022 elections. Colmenares stressed that they had reached out to Robredos team, but had yet to meet with the vice president in person.

It is for this reason, a Makabayan representative told the Philippine Star, that they have not yet endorsed Robredo or any other presidential aspirant. The Star wrote, It is not clear why Robredo, who has also been advocating for a broad coalition to crush Duterte and Marcos in the polls, did not personally meet Colmenares and members of Makabayan.

Robredos refusal to even meet with Makabayan has several underlying motivations. First, the Liberal Party already has its own pseudo-left wing: Akbayan, an organization formed in the 1990s by social democrat and ex-CPP forces. Akbayan has longstanding bad blood with the so-called national democratic organizations that continue to follow the CPPs political line.

There is a powerful strain of outrage in the popular opposition to Duterte at the support which the national democratic organizations, and the CPP itself, gave to Duterte in 2016.

In 2016, on the southern island of Mindanao, Colmenares campaigned for Dutertes election. Makabayan, and its sister organizations, celebrated his victory, initially supported his war on drugs as a boon to the poor, and entered his cabinet.

Finally, Robredos reluctance to engage with Makabayan expresses the right-wing campaign that she is attempting to run. Robredo is attempting to incorporate the backing of Lacson, Pacquiao and former Duterte supporter Isko Moreno. She has held unification meetings with each of these camps. Some of these forces will not come anywhere near Makabayan, and thus Robredo, for the time being, excludes them.

Makabayan is maneuvering, looking to increase their value to Robredo, and have secured slots on Manny Pacquiaos senatorial slate, where Neri Colmenares is running alongside fascist news personality Raffy Tulfo.

Laban ng Masa, associated with the various organizations founded by Popoy Lagman after he broke with the CPP, is running their own presidential candidate, labor union leader Leody de Guzman. De Guzmans declaration of candidacy was initially a bid to secure the final senatorial slot on Robredos ticket. When de Guzman was passed over, Laban ng Masa issued a statement that though we do not agree, we nonetheless respect their decision. They made clear their goal, declaring in the same statement, our representatives should have a seat in every table.

As it was now apparent that their bid to secure a senatorial slot had failed, Laban ng Masa found itself trapped in an independent presidential bid. Prominent intellectual Walden Bello, formerly of the CPP and now chair of Laban ng Masa, announced that he was running for vice president.

Laban ng Masa began to promote a platform promising various progressive measures, including disbanding the anti-Communist taskforce, increasing taxes on the wealthiest Filipinos, raising the minimum wage, and ending contractual labor.

There is, however, no genuine political independence to this campaign, which but weeks ago was pleading to be included on the right-wing slate of Leni Robredo.

Laban ng Masas continuing attempt to integrate itself into elite politics is highlighted by the inclusion of Makabayan on de Guzmans slate. The forces of Makabayan and Laban ng Masa represent political tendencies that for decades were murderously opposed to each other. Now they are uniting.

Makabayan keeps one foot in Pacquiaos camp and one in Laban ng Masa. All have their eyes on Robredo, waiting for the moment when they are called upon to support her.
Two extreme weather events, a bomb cyclone and an atmospheric river, combined on Saturday night to drench California with heavy storms and record amounts of rain in parts of the state. Heavy snows also blanketed the Sierra Nevada and severe storms caused by the weather system reached as far north as Oregon, Washington and British Columbia.

The gigantic storm swept into the Bay Area on Sunday, causing the collapse of utility lines and flattening trees in the urban area. Roadways were flooded and approximately 148,000 households and businesses lost power.

A car crosses a flooded parking lot in Oroville, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021. A massive storm barreled toward Southern California on Monday after causing flooding across the northern half of the state. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Debris flows were already occurring and causing road closures in California on Sunday morning, according to the National Weather Service (NWS), as heavy rains moved into the area near sites of recent wildfires. The NWS advised that it may be too late to evacuate, and no one should attempt to cross a debris flow. Instead, they advised residents to take shelter in the highest floor of ones home.

Daniel Swain, climate scientist at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), called the bomb cyclone an incredible specimen of a textbook mid-latitude cycloneaffecting nearly the entire West Coast Sunday afternoon. Bomb cyclones are caused by a massive drop in barometric pressure and can produce winds of up to 95 miles per hour.

Swain also noted in a tweet on Sunday evening that It is worth noting that this exact situationan extremely strong atmospheric river bringing brief period of record rainfall in midst of severe and temperature-amplified droughtis what we expect to see in California with #ClimateChange.

Swain added: Mean precipitation in California is not expected to change much in a warming climate, but the extremes (both wet and dry) are expected to intensify. So, spatiotemporally, there will be more intense but likely fewer storms, spread out over a shorter but sharper rainy season.

The storm is the strongest to hit the Bay Area in two years. Atmospheric moisture was vacuumed up from the tropics, creating the atmospheric river, which was all dumped across the whole state. The convergence of both weather systems hit the region with the force of a major hurricane according to meteorologists with the NWS. Its almost like a plow, and its pushing up all this warm and moist air, said Brayden Murdock, an NWS meteorologist.

Multiple rainfall records were broken as of Monday morning. St. Helena in the Napa Valley wine region received 10.92 inches in 48 hours, and San Francisco International Airport recorded 4.62 inches of rainfall in two days. The Mercury-News reports that San Jose recorded about 2.5 inches of rain as of 5:00 a.m. Monday, and Oakland was saturated with 6.65 inches.

Evacuations were ordered in several areas across the coastal zones in San Mateo and Santa Cruz counties ahead of expected mudslides, debris flows and the next wave of heavier rains to come. Evacuation centers have been set up at Half Moon Bay High School in San Mateo County and San Lorenzo Valley Junior and High Schools in Santa Cruz County, which will reportedly follow COVID-19 protocols.

Satellite imagery of the storms along the West Coast. Credit: NOAA

This storm arrives on the heels of the most active wildfire season in California history, which has exacerbated the floods and landslides. While wildfire activity has been dampened as a result of the current weather conditions, the lack of vegetation has made the ground more unstable and susceptible to shifting debris.

Marc Chenard of the Weather Prediction Center and the NWS told Reuters that Burn scars, thats the area where the water tends to run off quicker, so thats where the biggest flash flood risks are.

Reports have been coming in of mudslides occurring in the 570,000 acres charred by the Dixie Fire northeast of San Francisco, the second largest wildfire recorded in state history, Chenard stated.

Yosemite Valley remained closed by the National Park Service on Saturday because of the flooding and threat of mudslides. The main roads through the valley have been inundated with water, as has the Housekeeping Camp on the south bank of the Merced River, said meteorologist Kris Mattarochia with the NWS.

In Seattle and King and Pierce Counties in Washington state, at least 100,000 residences lost power yesterday afternoon, and in most areas was not restored for ten hours, well into the early hours this morning. More power outages are still possible through Monday, said Samantha Borth, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Seattle. Strong winds and thunderstorms were expected along the coast through Monday, she told the Seattle Times.

Overall, we got a number of systems still incoming, Borth said. This system is pretty strong for today and tomorrow. Tuesday and throughout the next week looks wet. In general, we have rain in the forecast for a little while.

The storm has brought hurricane-force winds to the northeast Pacific Ocean and waves approaching 30 feet tall, and it is the strongest storm in the northeast Pacific since April 2012, according to meteorologists.

Joe Boomgard-Zagrodnik, an agricultural meteorologist for Washington State University, predicted that the storm would explode out of nowhere.

What is remarkable is how big it is in scale, how deep the center is and the speed with which it goes from an open wave to a super-intense low-pressure system, Boomgard-Zagrodnik said, according to the Seattle Times.

Wind gusts Sunday hit 50 mph on the coast at Quillayute airport, and winds gusted to 74 mph at Cape Disappointment according to Washington Weather Chasers on Twitter, a film crew documenting the large swells crashing into the cliffs, as well as the massive surf battering the jetty at Fort Stevens State Park.

Climate specialists have predicted this weather behavior. In a paper published in 2019 in the journal Nature Climate Change, Daniel Swain analyzed how global warming made these dramatic shifts possible.

Mediterranean climate regimes are particularly susceptible to rapid shifts between drought and floodof which, Californias rapid transition from record multi-year dryness between 2012 and 2016 to extreme wetness during the 20162017 winter provides a dramatic example, the summary of the paper states.
In the October 24 webinar, How to Stop the Pandemic, sponsored by the World Socialist Web Site and the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC), a panel of leading scientists from around the world made a powerful and overwhelming case for the global elimination of the virus that causes COVID-19.

How to end the pandemic

Along with an earlier webinar organized by the WSWS two months ago, Sundays event was the only effort to devote time to allow scientists and public health specialists to explain to the public the nature of the pandemic and what must be done. To the extent that there is any discussion of the science of COVID-19, it is mainly confined to scientific journals with a very small circulation, not public events to which working people have direct access.

The webinar was also unique in its international scope. The eight scientists and doctors spoke from five different countries: New Zealand, the UK, the United States, Canada and Pakistan. During the event and in the first 12 hours after it was broadcast, several thousand people from more than 100 countries throughout the world listened in. Among the countries with the highest number of viewers were the US, Canada, the UK, New Zealand, Australia, Germany, Sri Lanka, Ireland, France, India, Spain, Malaysia and Brazil.

The event was moderated by WSWS International Editorial Board Chairman David North and WSWS writer and practicing physician Dr. Benjamin Mateus. In opening the webinar, North drew attention to the colossal loss of life over the past two years, with the official global death toll now approaching five million people. Citing the Economist, North noted that the real number of deaths is far higher, between 10 and 20 million people. The world has already paid a terrible price for the deliberate refusal of governments to listen to scientists, he said.

While originally scheduled for two hours, the webinar lasted for three and a half. Many of the scientists came prepared with detailed slides presenting factual information on the impact of different measures to contain the virus, the health consequences of the disease, and how it is transmitted.

Certain salient facts emerged from the reports that are vital for the public to understand.

Dr. Malgorzata Gasperowicz,a developmental biologist and researcher at the University of Calgary in Canada and cofounder of Zero COVID Canada, presented a report on The Case for SARS2 Elimination. She documented the extreme disparity in cases and deaths between provinces in Canada that pursued an elimination strategy and those that pursued a mitigation or containment strategy. She also presented mathematical models showing that vaccines alone are not sufficient to stop the spread of the virus.

Dr. Gasperowicz said that her models show that in countries with a high vaccination rate, aggressive measuresincluding the shutdown of nonessential production and aggressive testing, tracing and isolationcould eliminate the virus within two to three months. While there was some discussion on the length of time that would be required, all the scientists agreed that such a strategy was both viable and necessary.

Some people claim it is too late, that it is not possible to eliminate now because we have [the Delta variant], because the virus is everywhere, Dr. Gasperowicz said, but these claims are false. The math works the same. If we can bend the curve, if we can bring the R value [transmission rate] to a low level, we can eliminate.

Dr. Michael Baker, an infectious disease epidemiologist at the University of Otago in Wellington, New Zealand, who served on the New Zealand Ministry of Healths COVID-19 Technical Advisory Group, delivered a presentation, Progressive elimination of Covid-19: Is it feasible and desirable?

Elimination strategies, he concluded, definitely, definitely do work. He noted that the World Health Organization has pursued an elimination strategy for many diseases, including polio. China, New Zealand, Taiwan, and Australia, where elimination strategies have been pursued for much or all of the pandemic, have succeeded in limiting deaths to between three and five individuals per million. This compares to nearly 2,000 per million in the United States, which has led to a drop in life expectancy at birth by one and a half years.

Asked by David North whether the recent change in the policy of the New Zealand government to transition from its previous approach, under immense economic and political pressure, is very likely to lead to a sharp rise in cases and deaths, Baker stated, It is, very much so.

Dr. Jose-Luis Jimenez, professor of chemistry at the University of Colorado, Boulder, and an expert in aerosol physics, delivered a presentation on The modes of transmission of SARS-CoV-2. Dr. Jimenez presented slides that showed how SARS-CoV-2the virus that causes Covid-19is transported within minute aerosol particles from one person to another. They are emitted whenever people speak or even in the process of respiration. This accounts for the extremely infectious character of the disease, particularly in poorly ventilated indoor locations, such as schools.

Jimenez sharply criticized the World Health Organization (WHO) for refusing to acknowledge the aerosolization of the virus for more than a year after the start of the pandemic, calling it one of the biggest errors in the entire history of public health. He said that one of the reasons for the resistance in recognizing aerosolization is that it is less convenient for governments. It transfers responsibility from individuals to personally guard against less infectious modes of droplet infection to governments and businesses that do not implement adequate safety measures on a societal level.

Dr. Deepti Gurdasani, a public health researcher at the Queen Mary University in London, delivered a report on Long COVID, which she called the hidden pandemic after the pandemic. The report reviewed the alarming data showing that Long COVID symptoms lasting 12-15 weeks or more can affect between two and 14 percent of all people who contract COVID-19. She explained that infected individuals are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, lung disease, and brain degeneration in regions associated with sense, emotional processing and memory.

Governments, she said, do not want to talk about Long COVID because if they accept that it is real and problematic, they would have to do a lot more to prevent transmission.

Replying to a question from Lisa Diaz, a UK parent who has played the leading role in mobilizing opposition to the unsafe reopening of schools, Dr. Gurdasani called the policy of the UK government frankly criminal. One in 12 secondary school children and one in 30 primary school children have been infected with COVID-19 in the UK, she said. In all respects, our government has completely failed to protect children, and the impact of that has been not just mass infection of children but very high rates of Long COVID.

Dr. Zayar, a medical doctor in Pakistan who worked with the WHO from 2009 to 2014 on the polio eradication initiative, reviewed the catastrophic impact of the pandemic throughout South Asia. There are millions of more deaths on the subcontinent that are not reported, he said, noting that the governments in India and Pakistan have sought to cover up their failure to protect the population. Their first priority was to open the economy, [even at] the height of the pandemic.

Dr. Eric Feigl-Ding, an epidemiologist, health economist and Senior Fellow at the Federation of American Scientists, delivered a powerful indictment of the private control of vaccine production and distribution and the broader policy of governments in response to the pandemic. The moral backbone of public health has been completely broken by politics, he said.

The days of petitions and op-eds in newspapers are over, Feigl-Ding said, because we clearly know that the political powers that want to reopen, let it spread, let it rip, mass infection, live with the virusclearly they do not care about all the scientific rationale whatsoever.

In response to a question from David North about where he saw the pandemic going in the next three to six months without a dramatic change in policy, Fiegl-Ding responded: On a world scale, we will still be counting bodies in six months time. We are going to have a very bad winter in the Northern hemisphere. Other scientists on the panel agreed with this prognosis.

Dr. Howard Ehrmana retired family medicine physician, assistant professor at the University of Illinois Chicago College of Medicine and School of Public Health until 2020, and longtime social activistdelivered a scathing denunciation of the reopening of schools promoted by the Biden administration. There have been one million new cases among children in the last five weeks, he noted, and 588 children have died from the pandemic since it began, along with thousands of teachers and staff.

Dr. Ehrman criticized those in the media who have done everything under Trump and Biden to make parents, teachers, staff, feel guilty, threaten them, and now begin to punish them for keeping their kids at home.

In addition to the scientists, several workers on the panel discussed the impact that the pandemic has already had on workers, parents and the population as a whole. Lisa Diaz spoke on the catastrophic conditions produced by the reopening of schools in the UK, which she called a scorched earth policy.

David OSullivan, a London bus driver fired for defending his colleagues right to a safe workplace, spoke about the impact on bus drivers of the herd immunity policy of the Johnson administration, describing it as a war on the working class and a war on science. The two go hand in hand.

Donna, a teacher in the US and member of the Tennessee Educators Rank-and-File Committee, said that she and other teachers felt abandoned by our leaders, our administrators, and worst of all, our unions. Workers and scientists, she said, must join forces against the profit interests of our governments and business leaders if we are to end the pandemic.

In concluding the meeting, North explained: The case for elimination, a path that ultimately leads to the eradication of the virus, is so overwhelming from a scientific standpoint, that it is hard to understand that it could possibly be argued against.

There are definite social interests, however, that have determined policy from the beginning and are working actively against sciencethe profit interests of the ruling class. We cant get around the fact, North said, that we live in a society which hails the mindless, ridiculous, useless, extravagance of a ruling elite that cant think of any better way to use its money than to blast itself into space.

It is for this reason that the scientific information presented at the webinar has been completely excluded from the capitalist media. Outside of the WSWS forum, there has, since the start of the pandemic, been no systematic effort to educate the population in the science of Long COVID, aerosolization, the role of schools in the transmission of the virus, or any of the critical information that workers must know.

There is also a social force whose interests intersect with scientific truth: the working class, the great mass of the population.

North noted that since the last webinar held in August, there has been a significant growth of class struggle in the US and throughout the world. The initiative taken by Lisa Diaz, the efforts made by workers in rank-and-file committees to take control of their own struggles and also take control of the fight against unsafe conditions in their factories and their schools, are an indication of a profound change.

Paraphrasing Marxs famous statement from his Theses on Feuerbach, North concluded: The scientists have explained the pandemic. They have shown how it is transmitted, and how that transmission can be stopped. But the challenge of the working class is to end it.

The wealth of information presented in the October 24 webinar must be studied by every worker in every country. The scientific information and perspective presented at this webinar must be brought into the working class. The fight against the pandemic and the ruling classs policy of mass death must be fused with the growing struggles of workers throughout the world against exploitation, inequality, dictatorship, war and the capitalist system.
On October 23, the Socialist Equality Group (SEG) in New Zealand held an online public meeting entitled No retreat from elimination! Mobilise the New Zealand and international working class to defeat COVID-19! Speakers from the UK, Australia and New Zealand addressed an audience of more than 30 workers and students from New Zealand, Australia, the US and the UK.

They discussed the international significance of the NZ Labour Party-led governments announcement earlier this month that it will transition away from its previous policy of eliminating COVID-19 from the community.

The decision, which poses immense dangers for the working class, came as a shock to scientists and working people internationally who viewed New Zealands elimination policy as a model. In contrast to the vast majority of countries, New Zealand successfully stamped out transmission of the deadly coronavirus last year, using one of the worlds strictest lockdowns. This has limited deaths to 28 so far.

Chairing the meeting, Cheryl Crisp, the national secretary of the Socialist Equality Party in Australia, began by explaining that the elimination strategy adopted by New Zealand, China and other countries, had proven to be highly effective and successful.

Cheryl Crisp

The vast majority of governments, however, responded to the pandemic with the homicidal policy of mitigation or herd immunity. This program, driven by capitalist demands for schools and businesses to remain open, has led to an estimated 16.5 million deaths worldwide. Ardern, Singapore and others were responding to the same interests in discarding the elimination policy.

The task of ending the pandemic, Crisp said, fell to the working class, which had to be mobilised in a political struggle for socialism. She drew attention to the International Committee of the Fourth Internationals analysis of the pandemic as a trigger event in world history, comparable to the First World War. The war represented a breakdown of capitalism, which was only ended by the revolutionary upsurge of the working class throughout Europe and the victorious socialist revolution in Russia.

Tom Peters, the leading member of the SEG, explained how Prime Minister Jacinda Arderns government has rapidly turned to a policy of allowing COVID-19 to spread, knowingly risking thousands of peoples health and lives. An outbreak centred in Auckland has surged from just over 200 cases to well over 1,000 since restrictions in the city were loosened more than a month ago. Today, high schools in Auckland are reopening for thousands of students, with the collaboration of the trade unions. This will inevitably further accelerate the spread of the outbreak.

Tom Peters

Peters refuted the claims of the government and the media that Aucklands lockdown was not working and no longer needed because people can rely on vaccines. While important, vaccines alone cannot stop the spread of COVID-19. The government is ignoring scientists calling for a return to an elimination strategy and a hard level 4 lockdown in Auckland to save lives.

Peters also debunked the international medias glorification of Ardern over the past year-and-a-half. The government had only reluctantly implemented a nationwide lockdown in March 2020, out of fear of an explosion in the working class. Tens of thousands of workers, led by healthcare professionals, were demanding a lockdown, independently of the trade unions, which opposed such measures.

Labour and its coalition partners, the Greens and NZ First, had always prioritised big business profits throughout the pandemic, with bailouts and subsidies funded by austerity measures at the expense of workers. The government was ditching elimination at the behest of powerful capitalist interests.

Peters called on workers to form rank-and-file safety committees, independent of Labour and the trade unions, to oppose the reckless reopening of schools and businesses while COVID-19 is spreading.

UK educator and Socialist Equality Party member Harvey Thompson spoke about the stark situation in Britain, where Prime Minister Boris Johnson ruled out further lockdowns last November, declaring: let the bodies pile high in their thousands. Since the government lifted mitigation measures in July, more than 10,000 people had died and the countrys COVID-19 death toll had reached 162,620.

Harvey Thompson

Thompson praised the example set by three recent school strikes, called by parent Lisa Diaz, in opposition to the reopening of British schools that has fuelled the surge in cases and deaths. The Labour Party and the unions opposed the stoppages, with union officials castigating teachers and parents who were calling for strike action to save lives. Thompson said the strikes underscored a basic truth: if there is to be a fight to save lives, champion science and eradicate the pandemic it must be led by the working class, independently of the capitalist parties and unions.

Patrick OConnor, a teacher in Melbourne, member of the Socialist Equality Party in Australia, and of the Committee for Public Education (CFPE), also addressed the webinar. He described the spread of the coronavirus as an entirely avoidable and preventable disaster. Australia is currently reporting over 2,000 COVID-19 cases per day and 100 deaths per week.

Patrick OConnor

While the federal government of Scott Morrison never adopted an elimination strategy, state governments were initially forced to impose lockdowns last year. They were faced with immense pressures that emerged within the working class, OConnor said, including a strike by warehouse workers in Melbourne who had been exposed to the virus, and discussions of industrial action by teachers and healthcare workers.

This year, however, the state and federal governments have deliberately allowed the highly infectious Delta variant to spread, telling the population they must live with the virus. OConnor described how COVID-19 is surging through schools, which have been reopened with the full support of the teacher unions. The CFPE is fighting to expose the conditions in schools, including hundreds forced to shut due to cases of COVID-19, and to mobilise teachers and parents independently of the unions and against the governments criminal policies.

The speeches were followed by several questions and answers. One participant asked what the SEG thought of the Maori Partys accusation that by allowing COVID-19 to spread, the Ardern government was paving the way for the genocide of Maori people. In response, Peters explained that the Maori Party, a right-wing, capitalist party, was seeking to derail a unified working class struggle against the pandemic by claiming that deaths were essentially a racial, not a class issue.

In response to a question about how other socialist organisations had responded to the abandonment of the elimination strategy, Peters pointed to the example of the pseudo-left International Socialist Organisation, which has criticised the change in policy while still supporting the Labour Party government. He also addressed a question about the role of the New Zealand Nurses Organisation, which utilised the pandemic to cancel industrial action and push through a sellout agreement, perpetuating the crisis of under-funding, low wages and understaffing in public hospitals.

Other audience members sought further information about the school strikes in the UK, including the attitude of the trade unions, the response by parents, and the response of the state. Thompson explained that the unions were highly conscious and fearful of the prospect of an upsurge of the working class, and the government was threatening parents with fines and even prison sentences. He added that most information about the spread of the virus in schools, and the school strikes, was suppressed in the media, but the strikes were strongly promoted by the SEP and the WSWS and received powerful support from parents and school staff throughout the world.
On Sunday, October 24, the World Socialist Web Site and the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) co-hosted a webinar titled How to end the pandemic, which featured a panel of workers and distinguished scientists who have fought for policies to stop the spread of COVID-19 and save lives. The event drew wide interest and has now been viewed more than 10,000 times, with participants from dozens of countries on every habitable continent.

How to end the pandemic

The central purpose of the event was to provide a comprehensive overview of the science of the pandemic, including how COVID-19 spreads, its impact on humans, and what measures must be taken to cut off the chain of viral transmission and eliminate new cases worldwide. The WSWS spoke with workers who participated in the event and viewed it online, all of whom stated that it had a powerful impact on them.

British parent Lisa Diaz, who in late September initiated a series of global school strikes to protest the unsafe reopening of schools in the United Kingdom and other countries, joined the panel at the webinar. After speaking on the horrific conditions in UK schools, where roughly 20,000 children are being infected with COVID-19 every day, she asked Dr. Deepti Gurdasani what the long-term implications of this policy would be. Dr. Gurdasani gave a detailed presentation on the science of Long COVID and the impacts of the virus on children, denouncing the school reopening policies in the UK as criminal.

In a video statement reflecting on the meeting afterwards, which has itself been viewed over 17,000 times, Diaz commented, Everything [Dr. Gurdasani] said completely and utterly debunked the myth that [COVID-19] is a benign, mild illness and its fine for kids to get it. It is clearly not the flu. The long-term implications are terrifying, andits just the tip of the iceberg. We know that it thins the grey cortex in the brain, we know that it leads to organ damage, and all this is in very mild cases.

Diaz added, The scientific struggle is inseparable from the political struggle. Because were being ignored, weve got to take matters into our own hands, which is why #SchoolStrike2021 evolved. So, I think weve got to really just keep up the struggle and say, No, this is completely unacceptable. We cannot let this happen to our children, and weve just got to keep on fighting.

David OSullivan, a London bus driver and member of the London Rank-and-File Committee, who was victimized for speaking out about the lack of COVID-19 safety measures at his workplace, also joined the panel at the event. He spoke on his experiences during the pandemic and asked aerosol physicist Dr. Jose-Luis Jimenez a question on the airborne transmission of COVID-19 and the implications for bus drivers.

OSullivan commented after the event Monday, The event was truly a unique global event. Scientists generally speak and have lectures, symposiums and conferences, but none of them have had to explain the importance of a scientific outlook to a worldwide working-class audience. This was the central aspect of the webinar, to explain that the war on science is a war on the working class and that the two are related. The event made clear that the pandemic can only be resolved if it is eliminated in every country through struggle by the great mass of the population. This is the significance of the sponsorship of the event by the International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees.

Jude Jackson, a retired civil servant from England, watched the event and told the WSWS afterwards, How to end the pandemic was a superb conference amongst some of the leading voices in epidemiology and serious activists in the fight against the human costs of the killer COVID-19 pandemic. The opening, using videos posted on Twitter by workers, parents and grandparents, was extremely powerful and set the tone and the focus of the webinar. The individual presentations by the scientists had both clarity and, at times, passion, and the contributions as a whole will be a crucial resource for those called into action to change the course of the pandemic and of history.

Jason, a bus driver from the UK, said, It was simple to follow the science as a guide to the transmission of COVID-19, as well as the modeling of how the virus spreads. David OSullivan was brilliant, as was Donna, the American school teacher. The video testimonials from workers really hit home, in that a global response to eradicate COVID-19 is needed rather than just a few countries doing what they can to eliminate the virus. Shame on those countries who are participating in social murder. I agree 100 percent with the conclusion by David North. Why isnt this type of programme in the mainstream, as it can help everyday people fight back?

Jane, an adult social care lawyer in the UK, stated, It needs to be a world approach, the same as with climate change. What Dr. Gurdasani said about children and Long COVID was very worrying, theyre the next generation. Alberta in Canada managed to almost get rid of the virus with public health measures. Earlier this year, I worked in Saint Helena, a British overseas territory in the South Atlantic. Everyone who came there had to quarantine for 14 days. They used to have tourists from South Africa and cruise ships, but they stopped all that, and theres no COVID there at all.

Workers across the United States also shared their thoughts on the webinar with the WSWS. Michael, a parent of two children in San Luis Obispo, California, wrote during the event, I am taking screenshots. Excellent so far. So well done! I really enjoyed every bit of it. The last speaker really sewed it up. I missed a few spots, so Ill re-listen later. But I wasblown away. Its so fulfilling to hear experts who have reached my conclusions independently.

Steve, a teacher in the San Francisco Bay Area, California, commented, I did watch the event, almost in its entirety, and I left with new enthusiasm and hope. I thought the Canadians had very viable strategies and experiences we could use and model in the US. And even possibly in the UK, and possibly in New Zealand and Australia. Im just saying it exists as a mass movement; Dr. Vipond in Alberta has some other really interesting experiences. I wouldnt say it would be easy to eliminate COVID-19, but we could reference the work they have done as a model we are extending to build in the US and possibly Mexico and other countries.

Liz, an educator in Hawaii, told the WSWS, Its a breath of fresh air. First off, I love that a parent and school bus driver attended. Also, the experts were varied in their areas and when put together I felt I had a comprehensive understanding of the problem and where we need to go to actually deal with it effectively. Also, I realized that wiping surfaces is a waste of time and resources because the virus is airborne! How many different sprays and pounds of paper towels for nothing?! I am in full support of the elimination strategy!

Two of the panelists at the event were from Canada, Dr. Malgorzata Gasperowicz and Dr. Joe Vipond, and many Canadians attended the event as well. A school caretaker from Ontario who participated told the WSWS, One of the tasks I have as caretaker is to sanitize desks and all touchable surfaces. Dr. Jimenez proved that this is largely a waste of time. I suspected it was prior to watching todays webinar.

A teacher from Toronto sent comments during the presentation by Dr. Howard Ehrman, who spoke on the dangers of reopening schools before COVID-19 is eliminated. The teacher commented, Interesting points coming out in this presentation. The lack of testing is playing out here in Ontario as well. Our fights to get rapid tests in schools (and not only businesses or private schools that are considered businesses) was only recently successful. Trying to go for asymptomatic testing is very difficult and comes at a cost ($30$40 at big business pharmacies). Capacity limits are being lifted tomorrow. Proof of vaccine is being lifted in January (before verification of vaccine readiness for children), and masking is being lifted in March. The unions have been mum thus far about recent announcement from the premier, but we saw how lifting restrictions played out in Alberta.

The WSWS encourages all of our readers who attended the October 24 webinar or have viewed it afterward to send us your comments on the event, which we will publish throughout the week, and get involved in the fight to end the pandemic today!
Tennessee teachers and school employees are dying of COVID-19 at an increasing rate but local school districts, the state government and teachers unions have put little effort into publicly reporting who is dying and why.

This was among the conclusions of a recent story, COVID death toll among Tennessee public school employees rises, by the Tennessee Lookout, an online publication comprised of veteran journalists previously employed by some of the states largest daily newspapers.

Third grade at Warner Arts Magnet Elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee on August 20, 2021. (AP Photo/John Partipilo)

Between the reopening of Tennessees schools this yearsome systems as early as Augustand October 22, at least 27 employees had died of COVID-19, the publication reported. That includes three in Rutherford County, one of the fastest growing counties in Tennessee, adjacent to Nashville/Davidson County, the states capital.

Its a toll that steadily climbed as the school year got underway, the Lookout reported. In August, seven Tennessee public school employees died after contracting COVID. Fourteen employees died in September. Thus far in October, the Lookout has confirmed the deaths of five more public school employees.

As of October 22, there had been nearly 1.3 million confirmed COVID-19 cases in the state and 16,1585 deaths.

The American Academy of Pediatrics reported COVID-19 cases among children peaked nationwide in September. Between the weeks of September 2 and September 30, over 1.1 million cases were reported among children.

The Tennessee Department of Health reported 205,000 cases among children 5 to 18 years old as of October 15, with the highest spike in cases happening in the second half of this year, according to Action 5 News.

And as of October 5, 20 children have died of COVID-19 in the state.

Meanwhile, there has been little reporting on cases of long haulers, those whose symptoms and problems persist for weeks and sometimes months after an infection. The accepted rule of thumb is that as many as 10 percent of COVID-19 victims are long-haulers, including children and adults.

The pandemic has killed more than 748,000 in the US, more Americans than World Wars I and II combined, with an estimated 15 million excess deaths worldwide.

In the United States, where the trade unions have collaborated with the far-right to reopen schools, nearly 2 million children have been infected, 6,523 hospitalized and 200 killed since July 29, the WSWS reported last week. No one knows how many teachers have died.

The group School Personnel Lost to Covid has reported more than 1,600 deaths.

Most disgusting in the Lookout report was the lack of official and union interest in documenting these COVID deaths among educators.

Public acknowledgment of the deaths of educators from COVID-19 is rare and the Tennessee Department of Education does not keep track of such deaths, the Lookout reported. The Tennessee Education Association, the union representing teachers, is typically alerted when TEA members pass away, but has no way of knowing the underlying causes for every death nor do they routinely receive word on the deaths of public-school employees who are not TEA members.

That the TEA has apparently done little or nothing to change this slipshod healthcare reporting for its own members and other school workers is not mentioned but speaks volumes about the organization.

Both the National Education Association (NEA), the TEAs parent organization, and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) have vigorously defended the reopening of schools as safe despite scientific evidence of the dangers to not only students but teachers and all school employees required to teach and work in poorly ventilated, overcrowded buildings and with the vast majority of their students unvaccinated.

As the WSWS reported, when the NEA, with 3 million members, met for its convention in July there was no In Memoriam to remember the members and school workers who had died in the course of the worst public health catastrophe of the last 100 years.

New NEA head Becky Pringle (salary $325,900) and other top NEA officials said nothing of the deaths but provided a wealth of platitudes about resilience, creativity and love. As for teachers dying of the virus and the living struggling with politicians, businesses and school boards bent on reopening schools no matter what, she offered no support.

AFT President Randi Weingarten (salary $500,000) in late spring issued what amounted to an ultimatum to the AFTs 1.7 million teachers.

There is no doubt: Schools must be open. In person. Five days a week. she said, adding, We can and we must reopen schools in the fall for in-person teaching, learning and support. And keep them open. Fully and safely, five days a week  Given current circumstances, nothing should stand in the way of fully reopening our public schools this fall and keeping them open.

Schools have been reopened not to provide a safe, quality education for children but to serve as poorly ventilated holding pens for children so their parents can be forced back to work even as the pandemic continues to rage. Teachers and school employees, like cafeteria and maintenance workers, are expected to work in dangerous conditions. Bus drivers are forced to bring children in and take them out again several hours later into the community and back to their families. As the weather grow cooler, drivers will have to work in close, poorly ventilated conditions with unvaccinated children.

Weingarten has admitted to the child-care role of schools. Parents rely on schools, not only to educate their kids, but so they can worklike the 3 million mothers who dropped out of the workforce during the pandemic, she said.

Neither Weingarten and Pringle nor the NEA and AFT, nor their state-level affiliates like the TEA, will lead educators and school workers out of this dangerous morass.

These immense bureaucracies had ample resources to raise the alarm at the start of the pandemic by educating and mobilizing parents, educators, students and workers nationally. Instead, they dutifully collaborated with both big business parties to reopen schools, the WSWS explained.

Once the nations ruling class decided that workers must return to work there was a concerted effort to downplay the number of deaths. There have been multiple instances of under-reporting of COVID infections and deaths.

One of the most egregious came to light in January when it was revealed that Democratic New York Governor Andrew Cuomos administration had manipulated reporting requirements to undercount the total number of deaths in nursing homes and long-term care facilities by 50 percent

In Virginia, the Virginia Pilot newspaper reported that the state Department of Health was forced to take down and then update its COVID-19 dashboard after the newspaperthough the efforts of its reportersrevealed a vast discrepancy and undercount of 500 cases in children.

There is a reason for this. To accurately and widely report COVID-19 deaths and infections would undermine the task of forcing workers back to work and their children back into dangerous school settings. The media and the trade unions seek to inculcate a willingness to abide death and suffering to generate profits.

The Republicans and Democrats cannot be trusted to point the way forward, and the trade unions are their willing assistants.

To implement a program to end the pandemic and eliminate COVID-19 it is essential that workers in schools, communities and every industry form rank-and-file committees to coordinate their struggles across state and national boundaries. The International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) has been established for this purpose.

Teachers and other school workers have formed the Tennessee Educators Rank-and-File Safety Committee to coordinate this fight across the state. All educators and other workers who wish to fight to save lives should sign up today to join or build a committee at your school or workplace.
On Thursday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced his appointment of John Scott, a Fort Worth attorney, to be the next Texas secretary of state.

The announcement of Scotts appointment came a day after Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick posted a statement on Twitter urging Abbott to call legislators back to the capital for a fourth special session focused on passing an election forensic audit bill.

Former President Donald Trump, left, and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, right, visit an unfinished section of border wall, in Pharr, Texas, Wednesday, June 30, 2021. (AP Photo/Eric Gay)

As secretary of state, Scott will oversee election administration in Texas. His appointment comes amid widespread claims of election fraud from Republicans following the directions of the would-be-dictator Donald Trump. Trump has tried to sow as much uncertainty around the 2020 elections as possible, calling the election rigged.

Texas is one of several Republican-led states that tightened election laws this year on the spurious pretext of election integrity. The new law, which takes effect in December, gives numerous new powers to the secretary of state. The law empowers the secretary to fine counties up to $1,000 a day for not properly maintaining their voter lists and allows him to audit potentially years worth of county elections. The secretary of state will also have broader ability to forward information on alleged voter fraud to or missteps by election officials to the state attorney general, who has declared prosecuting election violations as top priority.

John Scott is a proven leader with a passion for public service, and his decades of experience in election law and litigation make him the ideal choice for the Texas Secretary of State, Abbott said in a statement announcing his appointment. John understands the importance of protecting the integrity of our elections and building the Texas brand on an international stage. I am confident that John's experience and expertise will enhance his oversight and leadership over the biggest and most thorough election audit in the country.

The announcement, however, did not mention Scotts previous work representing Trump in his effort to overturn the election results in Pennsylvania.

On November 13, 2020, Scott joined a team of lawyers to file a lawsuit by Trump attempting to block the certification of Pennsylvania's election, a state Biden won by 80,555 votesa narrow victory, but twice the margin by which Trump won the state over Hillary Clinton in 2016. However, when it became clear that the judge would not accept the claims of voting fraud, Scott resigned from his position three days later.

Scott is no stranger to election law. When Abbott was the Texas attorney general, Scott defended the states voter ID law against lawsuits from civil rights and voting rights organizations. The law was eventually struck down after district and federal courts found the law intentionally discriminatory. He also worked as the Texas Health and Human Services Commissions chief operating officer.

The top elections position has been open since the end of May, when Secretary of State Ruth Hughs resigned. Scott will eventually have to be confirmed by the Legislature, which is not scheduled to meet again until 2023. Until then, Scott will serve as interim secretary of state and will oversee next years statewide races, in which Abbott, Patrick and all state legislators are on the ballot.

Scotts appointment must be understood in the context of Trumps efforts to solidify Republican control across the South and build a fascistic movement in the countrys second most populous state. In September, Trump publicly called on Abbott to add an election audit bill to the agenda of a special legislative session, despite his winning the state by a margin of 5 percent. Trump has repeatedly claimed he actually won the traditionally Republican state by a wider margin. Last month, Trump wrote Abbott a letter urging him to back the legislation

Despite my big win in Texas, I hear Texans want an election audit! You know your fellow Texans have big questions about the November 2020 election, read the letter.

Hours after the letter was made public, Abbott quickly responded with a short statement saying that a full and comprehensive forensic audit had already begun in four urban counties: Harris County, which includes Houston, and Collin, Dallas and Tarrant, comprising the bulk of the Dallas-Ft. Worth metro area. Abbott underscored that the secretary of states office would oversee the review, and that no outside contractor would be brought in, as occurred during the recent review in Arizona, a bogus effort that nonetheless reaffirmed President Bidens win in the state.

According to Abbotts announcement, Scott also serves as senior adviser and liaison to the governor for Texas border and Mexican affairs and serves as chief international protocol officer for Texas.
On Saturday, two days after the House of Representatives cited Trumps coup co-conspirator Stephen Bannon for criminal contempt, the Washington Post published a lengthy article summarizing the efforts of Republican operatives operating out of the Willard Hotel to organize the overthrow of the presidential election.

Trump set up a command center at the Willard Intercontinental Hotel, located less than a block from the White House, where Bannon, along with fellow fascists such as Rudy Giuliani, plotted with Republican federal and state lawmakers, ex-Trump officials and far-right militia leaders in a conspiracy that culminated in the storming of the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021.

Left to Right - Rudolph Giuliani, John Eastman, Jenna Eliss, and Bernard Kerik. (Wikipedia)

The Post article establishes that rooms at the Willard were rented out to lawyers hired by the Trump campaign who were receiving their marching orders directly from the White House. The rooms, paid for by the Trump campaign, were obtained on November 5, two days after Democrat Joe Biden defeated Trump by a substantial margin in both the popular and the electoral votes.

The Willard Hotel cabal underlines the fact that the attack on January 6 was not, as Trump and most Republican officials claim, a political protest that got out of hand but rather the result of months of subversion headed up by Trump.

It must also be noted that the Willard command center was just one extension of the White House coup plot. A second war room was also established at the Trump International Hotel in Washington D.C. Several people have been identified as having participated in both.

For example, Trumps former National Security Advisor, retired Army General Michael Flynn and Trump political fixer and confidant Roger Stone were photographed in the days leading up to the coup attempt at both hotels.

Independent journalist, attorney, former criminal investigator and founder of the Proof substack Seth Abramson, citing Willard Hotel participant Joe Oltmann, has estimated that around 2530 people participated in the Willard operation. Oltmann is the founder of FEC United (Faith, Education, Commerce United), a reactionary Colorado group, which Abramson writes is closely linked to the United American Defense Force (UADF), a far-right militia.

Fascist QAnon supporter retired general Michael Flynn poses with Trump political crony Roger Stone at the Willard Hotel on January 5 (Twitter)

That the White House was the nerve center of a political conspiracy to establish a dictatorship was known well before January 6. In a Perspective column in the October 1, 2020 edition of the WSWS, headlined Trumps Operation Dictatorship: What the debate exposed, Joseph Kishore and David North spelled out Trumps political strategy, involving the use of fabricated allegations of ballot fraud to incite fascist thugs, assisted by police and unidentified federal agents.

Similarly, in an October 9, 2020 perspective column headlined, The Michigan conspiracy, Trump, and the 2020 election, Eric London wrote:

Trumps plan for election day is no longer a matter of conjecture. In battleground states that support Biden, Trump will falsely proclaim himself the victim of election fraud, deploy violent groups to intimidate voters, seize statehouses and eliminate political opponents. Armed supporters will declare the vote invalid or compel state legislatures to certify pro-Trump slates of electors.

What follows is a partial list of people who have now been confirmed through the October 23 article in the Washington Post and prior reporting to have participated in Trumps command center at the Willard.

John Eastman

Eastman is a former law professor and dean at the Chapman University School of Law, located in wealthy Orange County, California. He was a law clerk to arch-reactionary Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas and is the founding director of the Center for Constitutional Jurisprudence, a law firm affiliated with the far-right Claremont Institute, of which Eastman is a senior fellow.

The Claremont Institute was founded in 1979 and has provided fellowships to far-right personalities, such as Fox Newss Laura Ingraham and Jack Posobiec, a current Turning Point USA employee and former correspondent for the One America News Network.

Eastman was one of the speakers at the Save America rally headed by Trump outside the White House on the morning of January 6. He was the author of a memo to Vice President Mike Pence outlining Pences supposed constitutional power, while presiding over the January 6 joint session of Congress called to officially count the Electoral College vote results, to override the vote as certified by state officials. In reality, Pence had no such power under the Constitution or statute.

The memo was outlined in the recent book Peril by Post journalists Bob Woodward and Robert Costa. In it, Eastman argued that Pence could unilaterally defer counting electors from several battleground states that Trump lostsuch as Georgia, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Arizona and Michiganon the basis of unsubstantiated claims of widespread irregularities and fraudulent ballots.

Eastman claimed that Pence could then declare Trump the winner. If the Democrats objected, the election would be thrown into the U.S. House, where the outcome would be decided by the votes of state delegations, not individual representatives, and since the Republicans controlled a bare majority, 26, of the state delegations, Trump would be reelected.

In addition to drafting Trumps so-called coup memo, Eastman represented Trump in the December 9, 2020 lawsuit, Texas vs Pennsylvania, which was filed by Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a bid to override the will of the voters in at least four states. The U.S. Supreme Court threw out the suit.

The Post report notes that Eastman stayed at the Willard from Jan. 4 until after breakfast on Jan. 8, citing records showing that the hotel charged $1,407 for his lodging and meals during that time.

Eastmans arrival at the Willard came on the same day that Trump convened an Oval Office meeting to discuss replacing then-acting attorney general Jeffrey Rosen with Jeffrey Clark, a Justice Department official friendly with Eastman who proposed that the department encourage investigation of Trumps election fraud claims in Georgia and other states, the Post writes.

Rudolph Giuliani

Giuliani is the former mayor of New York City and a former US attorney for the Southern District of New York. As Trumps personal lawyer, Giuliani oversaw the legal team charged with overturning the election.

Giuliani, Eastman, Bobb and Philip Luelsdorff, Director of Business Development for 1st Amendment Praetorian militia group in the Willard Hotel on January 5. (Instagram via Proof)

After Trump announced on November 14 that he would be challenging the election results in court, Giuliani was tasked with creating a team of lawyers. In a November 19 press conference, Giuliani announced the team, which included Victoria Toensing, Sidney Powell, Jenna Ellis and Joseph diGenova. Less than three weeks after joining Giulianis team, diGenova appeared on a far-right Newsmax podcast and called for the former director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Chris Krebs, to be drawn and quartered, taken out at dawn and shot for stating that the 2020 election was free of manipulation.

In the meantime, Giuliani and Ellis were pressuring Republican state lawmakers to unilaterally overturn the results in their states. Previous reporting has established that they met with the Pennsylvania Senate Majority Policy Committee on November 25, during which Ellis urged Pennsylvania lawmakers to fix a corrupted, irredeemably compromised election, either by arranging for a new, special election or directing the manner of your electors.

Similar appeals were made by Ellis and Giuliani to Arizona lawmakers on November 30, Michigan lawmakers on December 2 and Georgia representatives on December 4.

The Post report states that on January 2, 2021 Trump, Giuliani and Eastman spoke to 300 state legislators on a conference call to provide evidence of fraud and galvanize the lawmakers to decertify the election results. You have the real power, Trump told the lawmakers, according to a report in the Washington Examiner. Youre the ones that are going to make the decision.

Bernard Kerik

Kerik is the former New York police commissioner under Giuliani and his longtime political crony. Long rumored to be tied to organized crime, he was the driver and bodyguard for Giuliani during his campaign for mayor of New York City in 1993. On December 3, 2004, Kerik was nominated by former President George W. Bush to head the Department of Homeland Security but was forced to withdraw after allegations of corruption emerged. Bernard Kerik was subsequently convicted of tax fraud and perjury and was pardoned by Trump in February 2020.

Speaking to the Post, Kerik said he and Giuliani worked together in furtherance of Trumps attempt to overturn the election from November 2020 through January 19, 2021. I believed until Inauguration Day that something could be donethats why the fight was still going on, Kerik told the Post. There were a lot of people who thought on the 6th that it was over, but I didnt believe that because the evidence seemed so overwhelming to me.

Kerik told the Post that he and Giuliani moved to Washington D.C. in early November but decided to move closer to the White House and stay at the Willard Hotel the third week of December. The Post notes: While the lawyers at the Willard were focused on promoting the legal strategy Eastman outlined, Kerik helped head up efforts to sift through allegations of election fraud. Phil Waldron, a retired Army colonel who specialized in psychological operations, led a team of people who provided Kerik with analyses of state data, which purported to show fraudulent voting, according to two of the people familiar with activities at the Willard.

Kerik billed the Trump campaign for $66,371.54 in travel and other expenses, including $55,295 for rooms for legal team members at the Willard from December 18 through January 8. The legal team members referenced in the documents include Kerik, Giuliani and Eastman.

Boris Epshteyn

Epshteyn is a Russian American Republican political operative who emigrated to the United States in 1993 following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Epshteyn graduated from the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service in 2004. In 2008, he served as a communications aide in the McCain-Palin presidential campaign. In 2016, Epshteyn joined the Trump campaign as a media surrogate.

After Trumps 2016 victory, Epshteyn served for three months as a special assistant in the Trump administration. He is credited with writing Trumps January 2017 Holocaust Remembrance Day statement, which failed to mention the Jewish people. After leaving the Trump administration in March 2017, Epshteyn was hired by media conglomerate Sinclair Broadcast Group as its senior political analyst.

Epshteyn was the strategic advisor and co-chair of the Jewish Voice for Trumps Advisory Board during Trumps 2020 reelection campaign. As a surrogate for Trump, Epshteyn was and continues to be a frequent guest on the fascistic War Room podcast hosted by Stephen Bannon.

In an interview with the Post, Epshteyn repeated Trumps election lies, stating he firmly believed then, as I believe now, that the vice presidentas president of the Senatehad the constitutional power to send the issue back to the states for 10 days to investigate the widespread fraud and report back well in advance of Inauguration Day, January 20.

Russell J. Ramsland Jr.

Ramsland is co-owner of Allied Security Operations Group, a cybersecurity outfit he has used to push election fraud conspiracy theories, going back to 2018. In a November 17, 2020 taping of Lou Dobbs Tonight on Fox News, Ramsland was the invited call-in guest. During his five-minute appear ance, he falsely claimed that there was a stunning amount of fraud in this election and that over 3,000 precincts in Michigan had inaccurate vote counts in favor of Biden. He also propagated conspiracies surrounding Dominion Voting Systems. Ramsland ran for Congress in 2016, falling in the Republican primary to Pete Sessions. Sessions was one of 147 House Republicans who voted to overturn the election results after the attack on the Capitol.

Rudy Giuliani, John Eastman, Christina Bobb and Russel Ramsland in the Willard Hotel January 5, 2021 (Instagram via Proof)

Christina Bobb

Bobb is currently a host and reporter on the fascistic One America News Network. She is a lawyer by trade and has worked for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as an executive secretary. Prior to working for the DHS, she was a judge advocate in the United States Marine Corps. During her time on active duty, she was an attorney in Helmand Province, Afghanistan, where, according to her One American News Network (OANN) bio, she assisted the Command in all legal matters relating to operations and intelligence.

Her OANN bio also notes that she mobilized to Marine Corps Forces Europe and Africa in Stuttgart, Germany as an operations officer. In this role, she was responsible for briefing the senior leadership on current operations in both Europe and Africa on a daily basis.

In the months leading up to the coup, Bobb repeated Trumps election lies and has continued to fundraise and support efforts to audit the votes in states Trump lost.

Philip Luelsdorff

Luelsdorff is the director of Business Development for 1st Amendment Praetorian (1AP), a fascist paramilitary security group that has provided security for far-right politicians and fascist rallies, including a QAnon convention this past May in Dallas. The online group @Capitolhunters, which has curated and organized crowd-sourced information regarding the January 6 coup, reported that Luelsdorffs mother, Baroness von Luelsdorff, claims to be an exiled Russian aristocrat.

The co-founder of the paramilitary group is former US Army Green Beret Robert Patrick Lewis. Lewis has previously served as bodyguard for Trump-aligned figures and has been named by the Select Committee investigating the attack on the Capitol. Lewis was deployed to Afghanistan and Iraq, and in an October 11, 2020 Facebook post he described the 1AP as a group of military, law enforcement and intelligence community veterans, who provide pro bono intelligence and security services to patriotic and religious events.

1AP provided security at several of the rallies leading up to the January 6 attack. On the event permit listed for the November 14 Million MAGA March at Freedom Plaza, which was obtained by Cindy Chafian on behalf of Women for America First, the permit notes that 1AP members would be wearing black T-shirts and serve as demonstration marshals. At 2:18 p.m. on January 6, 2021 Lewiss official Twitter account tweeted: Today is the day the true battles begin.
A young, popular royal finds love with a commoner. The relationship sparks a tabloid frenzy, and the royal struggles with their mental health. Eventually, the couple marry and leave palace life behind for a fresh start in the US. Royal watchers might think they know this story -- but it's not the one you're thinking of.

On Tuesday, Japan's Princess Mako -- a niece of Emperor Naruhito -- wed her lawyer fiance, Kei Komuro, in a ceremony that was distinctly lacking in the usual bells and whistles.

When you think of royal nuptials, you tend to think of allout celebrations complete with a lavish public ceremony, thousands of well-wishers lining the streets, and a country caught up in wedding fever. But that wasn't quite the case here.

In fact, it was perhaps as low-key as a wedding can get -- the couple submitted their registration at a local ward office in Tokyo and followed it later with a short news conference.

This muted affair also marked the end of Mako's time as a royal. The newlyweds are expected to move to New York City, where Komuro works at a law firm.

While some may draw comparisons between the couple and the British royal family, the parallels are somewhat superficial.

Sure, it's become fairly routine these days for royals to find their "happily ever after" with commoners. In the Windsor clan alone, we've seen the Queen's sister Princess Margaret marrying photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones, William and Kate and, of course, Harry and Meghan. But marrying a non-royal has also been accepted in wider European royal monarchies: Denmark's Crown Prince Frederik wed marketing executive Mary Donaldson, and Spain's then-Crown Prince Felipe married former CNN+ anchor Letizia Ortiz.

And yes, exiting a royal family after falling for a commoner -- one disapproved of by some -- bears a resemblance to the Sussexes. Harry and Meghan famously stepped back as working royals, in favor of a new life in California, but don't expect the Japanese newlyweds to follow suit.

"British royal family members grow up among great wealth. And they also spend a lot of time directly raising money for charitable causes, so know how it works," says Ken Ruoff, director of the Center for Japanese Studies at Portland State University. "So when Harry and Meghan went to the US, by telling various stories about the royal family, they managed to make millions and millions of dollars, all the while draping themselves in feel-good, left-wing causes."

Ruoff says Mako's departure is a "dramatic exit" but thinks they'll opt for a quieter life now they've tied the knot. "I think what's going to happen is they're just going to disappear."

While there are definitely surface level comparisons, Tuesday's not-so-royal wedding in Japan is more nuanced. Most importantly, Mako is not choosing to give up her royal title. She is losing it because of Japan's centuries-old strict imperial law.

The 30-year-old isn't the first Japanese princess to swap the palace for a more ordinary life. Her aunt Sayako, the only daughter of former Emperor Akihito, was the last to do it in 2005 when she wed town planner Yoshiki Kuroda. But compared to that match, Mako and Komuro's union has faced an unusual level of vitriol from large swathes of the public.

It should have been a love story for the ages. The college sweethearts announced their plans to wed in 2017. Excitement initially rippled across Japan but the public's perceptions began to sour shortly afterwards.

The wedding -- originally planned for 2018 -- was delayed. Preparations for it have been plagued by public disapproval of the pair's relationship, and a media frenzy over a financial dispute involving Komuro's mother. The controversy even led some to paint Komuro as a gold-digger unfit for their beloved princess.

"There are so many doubts and misgivings about Kei Komuro and his mom, and people fear the image of the royal family will be sullied," says Kei Kobuta, a royal affairs YouTuber. Kobuta said many royal watchers view Mako like a sister or daughter, and believe she has made the wrong choice.

Many in Japanese society hold the world's oldest monarchy -- and particularly its women -- to mercilessly high standards that reinforce patriarchal values, says Kumiko Nemoto, a professor from the School of Business Administration at Senshu University in Tokyo, whose research focuses on gender.

"The Japanese public wants to feel affinity with the members of the imperial family, but they also want the family to follow gender roles and family norms where a woman, they believe, should obey the male authority in the family and the nation," she explains.

In projecting these extreme expectations -- which are reflective of a wider gender inequality that exists in the country -- onto the family, Nemoto says the public sometimes ends up demonizing those who they see as tarnishing the family's reputation. She says many saw Komuro's career in the US as selfish, and deemed his upbringing by a single parent as improper.

"Perhaps, because many Japanese man and woman continue to live their lives with the large constraints of gender roles or social pressure of traditional family and careers, they may think that a man and a woman should sacrifice themselves for the marriage and family," she adds.

Mikiko Taga, a Japanese royal journalist, tells CNN that Mako -- who has represented her family on official trips to Bolivia and Peru -- won over the public from an early age. "Her manners are impeccable. People viewed her as the perfect royal."

Japanese royals are also required to have a certain mystique about them, says Christopher Harding, a senior lecturer in Asian history at the University of Edinburgh. "There has been no attempt in Japan to create a 'media monarchy' in the way that has happened progressively in Britain. There is more deference and respect, although that doesn't stop some sections of the Japanese media from pursuing tabloid-style gossip stories," he says.

Those smears have taken a toll on the bride who was revealed to be suffering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder earlier this month. She's not the first of Japan's royal women to suffer the intense pressure of public scrutiny.

"The present Empress, Masako, has a well-documented history of struggles with her mental health. So too does her mother-in-law, Empress Emerita Michiko," adds Harding, who explores Masako's role in his book, "The Japanese: A History in Twenty Lives."

Harding says Masako married into the imperial family believing she could continue her diplomatic career. "The reality has been less kind, at least until recently. Masako found that her main duty was to produce an heir."

"Feminists in Japan, the United States and elsewhere were deeply disappointed, because they hoped that she might represent a fresh start," Harding continues. "The Japanese public are generally sympathetic to the toll on mental health that a royal role can involve. But there has also been suspicion that mental health diagnoses are used to deflect criticism, or cover up shortcomings."

"This was particularly the case with Masako," he adds. "She required rest, as part of her treatment, but some criticised her for shirking her duties, and letting her husband do all the work."

As a woman, Mako wasn't in line to the throne -- Japan's conservative and patriarchal succession law blocks that. Instead, her role in royal life was to assist her male relatives. But the rules haven't always been this way. Empresses have ruled Japan at various points over several centuries -- until they were barred in 1889.

Mako's departure will once again reignite the debate on whether imperial law should be amended to allow women who marry commoners to keep their royal titles as men do, and consequently bolster the dwindling line of succession.

For some, the idea of a so-called "empress regnant" on the Chrysanthemum throne is a barrier to modernizing the monarchy. But Harding says the real sticking point is the potential loss of patrilineal succession.

"Even when there have been empresses regnant in the past, the throne has always been passed down the male line," he explains. "Those in Japan who are keen to preserve Japanese tradition ... worry that if women are allowed on the throne then at some point in the future the country may well end with an emperor (or empress) whose mother is of imperial blood but whose father is not. This, for them, would be an intolerable rupture with the past."

(With reporting from CNN's Emiko Jozuka, Selina Wang and Junko Ogura in Tokyo and Nectar Gan in Hong Kong.)

DID YOU KNOW?

With Mako's departure, Japan's imperial family continues to shrink. There's currently only one young successor to the throne, Mako's brother, the 15-year-old Prince Hisahito.

Here's a look at how survival of the world's oldest dynasty rests on the shoulders of a schoolboy.

FROM THE ROYAL VAULT

We mentioned earlier that life as an Empress in Japan's Imperial Family isn't an easy ride. Going back into the CNN archives, we found this 2019 piece from international correspondent Will Ripley exploring the tough experience faced by Japan's Empress Michiko. Have a watch:

At a press event on Tuesday afternoon, Mako appeared alongside her husband in front of a selected group of reporters. The pair apologized for any trouble caused by their marriage while expressing gratitude to supporters.

---

Thanks for reading our special edition on Princess Mako's wedding. Let us know what you thought of the send and whether this is something you'd like to see more of in the future by emailing royalnews@cnn.com. Regular programming of Royal News returns this Friday!

--Max & Lauren

The-CNN-Wire

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A small group of ultra-wealthy individuals could help solve world hunger with just a fraction of their net worth, says the director of the United Nations' World Food Programme.

Billionaires need to "step up now, on a one-time basis", said David Beasley in an interview on CNN's Connect the World with Becky Anderson that aired Tuesday -- citing specifically the world's two richest men, Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk.

"$6 billion to help 42 million people that are literally going to die if we don't reach them. It's not complicated," he added.

Tesla chief executive Musk has a net worth of nearly $289 billion, according to Bloomberg, meaning that Beasley is asking for a donation of just 2% of his fortune. The net worth of US billionaires has almost doubled since the pandemic began, standing at $5.04 trillion in October, according to progressive groups Institute for Policy Studies and Americans for Tax Fairness.

A "perfect storm" of several crises, such as climate change and the Covid-19 pandemic, mean many nations are "knocking on famine's door," Beasley said.

Half of the population of Afghanistan -- 22.8 million people -- face an acute hunger crisis, according to a WFP report released Monday. Rampant unemployment and a liquidity crisis means the country is teetering on the edge of a humanitarian crisis and 3.2 million children under the age of five are at risk, the report concluded.

A series of new reports from the Biden administration issued a stark warning last week: The effects of climate change will be wide-reaching and will pose problems for every government.

Among the reports, the administration details how climate change is driving migration, the first time the US government is officially recognizing the link between climate change and migration. The WFP has warned about this swell of movement in the past, particularly in the "Dry Corridor" region in Central America.

"For example, take the United States and the region in Central America, the Dry Corridor, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua -- just down in that area alone," said Beasley Tuesday. "We're feeding a lot of people down there and the climate is just changing with hurricanes and flash flooding; it's just devastating."

In Ethiopia, the WFP estimates that 5.2 million people are in urgent need of food assistance in the Tigray region, where Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has led a major offensive against the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) since last year. Thousands of civilians have since been killed, while more than 2 million have been displaced.

Humanitarian organizations like the WFP have struggled to get supplies to those in need in the region, compounding the crisis.

"I don't know where they're getting the food from," said Beasley in the wide-ranging interview. "We're out of fuel. We're out of cash, in terms of paying our people and we are running out of money and we can't get our trucks in."

The-CNN-Wire

 &  2021 Cable News Network, Inc., a WarnerMedia Company. All rights reserved.
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WTHI) -The American Red Cross is looking to overcome the emergency blood shortage that has impacted the nation.

The Red Cross told News 10 that the current blood supply is the lowest the organization has seen this time of year in more than a decade.

Those who donate blood from November 1st to the 12th will be entered to win a Hawaii trip.

Those who come to donate the 1st through the 23rd will receive a 10-dollar amazon gift card.

You can make an appointment on the American Red Cross website.
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - A local museum will be receiving assistance after being impacted by COVID-19.

Candles Holocaust Museum in Terre Haute has been awarded an Operating Support Grant of $20,000.

The grant is from Indiana Humanities.

The relief is given to organizations impacted by the pandemic.

Candles Museum was one of 59 across the state to receive the funding.

Over $800,000 of funding was given across the state of Indiana.
INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WTHI) - Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb released the details about a third-party review involving state-level law enforcement on Monday.

The report makes recommendations for the state to improve curriculum and training programs.

It outlined recommendations that the Indiana State Police has already taken, like body cameras for all troopers.

It also developed systems to improve transparency between other agencies and the public.

The Indiana Law Enforcement Academy has committed to further steps.

A working group will re-evaluate training on topics like implicit bias. Programs will be developed for scenario-based training along with de-escalation training during mental health responses.

See the full report here.
Here's a look at Vigo County Health Department food inspections for October 11  October 23, 2021.

Posted: Oct 26, 2021 11:20 AM
VIGO COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI) - A teacher shortage is impacting Vigo County Schools, but the school corporation tells us it is not as bad as it has been in years past.

There is a teacher shortage in 97% of Indiana schools according to an Indiana State University study.

Vigo County Schools are no exception to that number.

This is something local teachers say they can understand and something Vigo County Schools say they are trying to manage.

Tonya Pfaff is an algebra teacher at Terre Haute North High School, as well as an Indiana State Representative for District 43.

She says in her time teaching, things have become more difficult as time has gone on.

"When I started 28 years ago as a teacher, I mean, life was a lot easier, right? You picked up your chalk, you did your lesson, but now teachers are asked to do so much more," said Pfaff.

The ISU study mentioned standardized testing, low pay, legislation and feeling disrespected.

Pfaff says, she could not agree more.

"One of the big problems with education now is, teachers just don't feel respected, and until we get that back and money, I just think it's gonna be so hard to recruit people in our profession," said Pfaff.

At Vigo County Schools, director of communication Bill Riley tells us they do have a shortage.

Right now 31 long-term substitute teachers are filling in full-time for unfilled teaching positions.

This is down from around 50 in years past.

Riley says the school corporation is fighting for competitive teacher wages and searching for talent at local colleges.

He says this has kept that number below normal.

"We get in there and recruit very heavily, those students are student teachers, and if they really do a good job, we try to snap those teachers up," said Riley.

Pfaff says without teachers, the state could be headed for trouble.

She says no matter what you want in life, you need some sort of education to get there.

"Teaching is a calling, right? So it is a very respectable position and what we do, no matter who you want to be, what you want to be, your foundation is that education," said Pfaff.

Researchers that conducted the study at ISU say the shortage could be on track to get worse if things continue on the current trend.

They say the state could lose over half of all its teachers.
CLAY COUNTY, Ind. (WTHI)- For several months, there have been talks between county officials about expanding the Clay County Justice Center.

Paul Hardin is the Sherriff of Clay County. He said the Justice Center has 170 beds. Only nine of those beds are available now. He said now is the time to expand.

"We're running capacity right now," he said. "So, whenever you do that, you need to look at expanding."

The center not only holds local inmates but also holds ICE detainees. When the center has the space, it will have up to 65 detainees.

Wesley Brockway is a supervising attorney with the National Immigrant Justice Center in Indianapolis. He has worked with many clients who were detained in Clay County. He said many of his clients had been residents in the area, but then had a run-in with ICE. He said the time spent in the center was extremely hard for his clients.

"Immigrant or criminal," Brockway said. "They have this mentality that they are treated the same way as anyone else who is maintained in that facility."

Brockway said his clients were denied basic hygiene products, like hand sanitizer to protect against COVID-19. He also said social distancing in the facility was a problem.

Sherriff Harden said items had been distributed to help stop the spread of the virus in the center.

"They've always had access to that," he said. "As they are in, they can request more if they need it. And we're happy to provide that for them."

Other immigrant advocacy groups express other concerns.

Romelia Solano is a research fellow with Mariposa Legal.

Her organization has sponsored many protests and demonstrations against the expansion.

While officials had said there wouldn't be a tax increase, Solano said this often is not the case with jail expansions.

Also concerned is Jesse Franzblau, a senior policy analyst with the National Immigrant Justice Center. He said the lack of public discussion is concerning.

"If they are really looking to expand this jail, so they can put more people in immigration detention," he said. "It's really a large issue that people should be concerned about."

Solano said she is calling for more transparency from county officials.

"Our communities are not a dollar bill," she said. "We are a people and we deserve respect."
JACKSON, Miss. (AP)  Most employees at Mississippi's eight public universities will be required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 after a vote from the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning board of trustees Monday.

The action came on the same day the health department reported that Mississippi surpassed 10,000 coronavirus-related deaths.

The board scheduled a special meeting to discuss a Sept. 9 executive order from President Joe Biden that requires employees who do work connected to federal contracts be vaccinated unless they qualify for a medical, disability or religious exemption. The order states contractors must be vaccinated by Dec. 8.

Mississippi universities have approximately 120 federal contracts totaling at least $271 million.

According to guidance from the federal government, even employees who do not work under federal contract must be vaccinated if they work in the same building or on the same campus as someone who does.

The board voted 9-3 to comply with Biden's mandate. It was not immediately clear how many employees would be affected by the vote.

The vote is a reversal from a previous decision in September by the board to prohibit public universities from requiring COVID-19 vaccinations unless students or employees work in a clinical setting, like at the University of Mississippi Medical Center.

The Mississippi State Department of Health reported Monday that 10,024 people have died of COVID-19 or its complications in the state, which has a population of around 3 million.

The state reported its first coronavirus-related death  a man between the ages of 60 and 65 in Hancock County  on March 19, 2020.

Around 70% of the people who have died from COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic were at least 65 years old, according to department of health data. Around 39% were Black and around 57% were white. Close to 25% of all people who died had hypertension.

Nine of those dead from the virus were children and 15 were pregnant women.
Here is the latest Minnesota news from The Associated Press at 1:40 a.m. CDT
Here is the latest Wisconsin news from The Associated Press at 1:40 a.m. CDT
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Call of Duty: Vanguard is Out Today on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S
Cardi B and Penn Badgley have been interacting on Twitter recently. Tommaso Boddi: Getty Images for Fashion Nova; Jim Spellman/Getty Images

Cardi B and Penn Badgley changed their Twitter profile pictures to images of each other.

It happened after Cardi B learned that Badgley had praised her social media use in 2019.

The official Netflix account called for Cardi B to appear in its Badgley-fronted series "You."

Over the past several days, Cardi B, actor Penn Badgley, and the official Netflix account have woven a complicated social media web around "You" season 3. What started as Badgley mentioning the rapper in a 2019 interview has escalated into the stars changing their profile pictures to images of each other.

Badgley stars in Netflix's "You" as Joe Goldberg, a serial killer who is wont to fall into toxic obsessions with young women. The series' third season premiered on Netflix on October 15 - and according to Cardi B's tweets, the rapper may make an appearance in a subsequent season.

Here's how Badgley, Cardi B, and Netflix became intertwined on Twitter.

Penn Badgley shouted out Cardi B in a 2019 interview

This social media saga actually started two years ago while Badgley and his "You" co-star Shay Mitchell were doing press for the show's second season. In a clip uploaded by the Philippines-based music outlet MYX Global in January 2019, Badgley named Cardi B as someone who has a good relationship with social media.

"I really appreciate people who have this sort of totally like, just second-nature relationship to [social media]," Badgley said in the clip.

"Cardi B is a great example of that. She has such an authentic relationship, you know? It's this incredibly nuanced place to be," Badgley continued. "I feel like she has an incredibly authentic relationship to that, and that's why people like her so much."

Cardi B currently has around 19.4 million followers on Twitter, where she frequently tweets candidly and interacts with other users and fan accounts.

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Cardi B responded 2 years later after a fan reposted the clip to Twitter

That clip doesn't appear to have come to Cardi B's attention until this month, just days after the third season of "You" hit Netflix on October 15.

"OOOOMMFFFGGGGGG HE KNOWS ME !!!" Cardi B wrote in an October 17 tweet, quote-retweeting a fan who resurfaced the clip. "OMMMGGGG!!!!!! Yoooo like I'm famous famous."

Badgley responded.

"I-" he wrote in an October 19 tweet.

The pair then changed their profile pictures on Twitter to images of each other

BuzzFeed reported that, in the wake of Badgley's tweet, he changed his Twitter profile picture to an image of Cardi B with blue hair. As of Tuesday, that image is still in place as the avatar for his verified account.

Penn Badgley changed his profile picture to an image of Cardi B. @PennBadgley/Twitter

On October 20, Cardi B posted a video seemingly in response to Badgley changing his profile picture. It shows a young child leaning into the camera and asking, "is that me?"

She also responded in kind, changing her profile picture to an image of Badgley staring forlornly out of a window.

Cardi B changed her Twitter profile picture to an image of Penn Badgley. @iamcardib/Twitter

Netflix's main Twitter account eventually got in on the moment as well

At some point after the stars changed their profile pictures on Twitter, the official Netflix account changed its bio to, "Petition to get Cardi B to guest star in Season 4 of You." As USA Today reported, a Change.org petition to get the star to appear in the show has amassed approximately 800 signatures.

Cardi B later engaged directly with the official @Netflix account, proposing a scenario for her involvement in the show.

"So it's episode 1 and I'm at Paris Fashion week shutting it down! I turn around and there stands YOU," the rapper tweeted on October 21. "Ok finish it off @netflix."

The tweet was accompanied by a screenshot of Netflix's main account. And eventually, the streaming platform responded, attaching images of Badgley in "You" to lyrics from Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion's 2020 single "WAP."

Badgley spoke about his friendship with Cardi B on Jimmy Kimmel Live

Badgley opened up about the series of interactions with Cardi B on Monday's episode of "Jimmy Kimmel Live."

"This is a thing that we have now, me and Cardi," Badgley said, laughing slightly, during the interview when Kimmel asked about their swapped profile pictures.

Badgley said that while he doesn't know whether or not Cardi B will appear on the show, he referenced the Change.org petition to secure her a guest star spot on its fourth season.

"Changing the world, you know?" the actor said during the interview.

Cardi B, Badgley, and Netflix did not immediately respond to Insider's requests for comment.

Read more stories from Insider's Digital Culture desk.

Read the original article on Insider
Dave Chappelle has reiterated his offer to meet with transgender employees at Netflix offended by his latest special, The Closer, but he has some stipulations.

The comedian has been under fire since the Oct. 5 release of the show, which so offended the transgender community that GLAAD condemned it and employees of the streaming service walked out in protest last week. In it, Chappelle said, "Gender is a fact," and he defended Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling, who has been accused of being transphobic. Employees who walked out had called for the company to take measures that would keep Netflix from promoting misinformation about trans and nonbinary communities in the future.

On Monday, he posted a clip from a post-The Closer performance, which clarified his stance on the meeting: "It's been said in the press that I was invited to speak to the transgender employees at Netflix, and I refused. That is not true," Chappelle said. "If they had invited me, I would have accepted it, although I am confused about what we're speaking about. I said what I said, and boy I heard what you said. My god. How could I not? You said you want a safe working environment at Netflix. Well, it seems like I'm the only one that can't go to the office anymore."

He asked the audience not to blame the LGBTQ+ community.

"I want everyone in this audience to know that, even though the media frames us that it's me versus that community, that is not what it is. Let's not blame the LGBT community for any of this shit," he said. "This has nothing to do with them. It's about corporate interests and what I can say and what I cannot say. For the record, and I need you to know this, everyone I know from that community has been nothing but loving and supportive, so I don't know what all this nonsense is about."

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He explained what it would take for him to sit down with his critics, and it involved Hannah Gadsby, another comedian who slammed Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos  who defended Chappelle's "artistic expression" after the special debuted. (Sarandos used Gadsby, a member of the LGBTQ+ community, as an example of why Chappelle's show would not be removed; there was diversity, he said. Gadsby responded by telling him, in no uncertain terms, to leave her out of the debate.)

"To the transgender community, I am more than willing to give you an audience," Chappelle said. "But you will not summon me. I am not bending to anybody's demands. And if you want to meet with me, I'd be more than willing to, but I have some conditions. First of all, you cannot come if you have not watched my special from beginning to end. You must come to a place of my choosing at a time of my choosing. And thirdly, you must admit that Hannah Gadsby is not funny."

Dave Chapelle's latest Netflix special, "The Closer," has been met with backlash. (Photo: Samir Hussein/WireImage)

The comedian spoke about some of the consequences that he has seen over the past three weeks. For instance, he said interest in Untitled, the documentary he made about the murder of George Floyd, has been greatly reduced.

"This film that I made was invited to every film festival in the United States. Some of those invitations I accepted, and when this controversy came out, about The Closer, they began disinviting me from these film festivals," Chappelle said. "And now, today, not a film company, not a movie studio, not a film festival, nobody will touch this film. Thank God for Ted Sarandos at Netflix. He's the only one that didn't cancel me yet."

So, Chappelle said he is taking his movie to 10 U.S. cities, with tickets going on sale in the next few days. According to Live Nation, cellphones won't be allowed.

Watch: Dave Chappelle breaks silence following backlash to Netflix special
Another MD is checking out of The Good Doctor.

EW has confirmed that Osvaldo Benavides is leaving the ABC medical drama, which must come as a surprise to fans since the actor just joined the show as a series regular at the end of last season. TVLine first reported his exit.

There's currently no additional information about the reason for his sudden departure or when his final episode will air. Sony Pictures Television declined to comment, and representatives for ABC and Benavides did not immediately respond to request for comment.

The Good Doctor

Jeff Weddell/ABC Christina Chang as Dr. Audrey Lim and Osvaldo Benavides as Dr. Mateo Rendon Osma on 'The Good Doctor'

Benavides made his debut as Dr. Mateo Rendon Osma in season 4's two-part finale, when the St. Bonaventure Hospital surgeons traveled to Guatemala to perform pro bono surgeries. Chief surgeon Dr. Audrey Lim (Christina Chang) had a fling with Mateo, who ultimately decided to follow her back to the U.S. and explore this new romance (which is when Benavides was made a series regular). Lim hired Mateo as a new surgeon at the beginning of season 5, but he had to be supervised by Dr. Marcus Andrews (Hill Harper) because of his ongoing legal issues.

"We've been talking about bringing in a new doctor, a different point of view," showrunner David Shore said in June when EW asked about Benevides' promotion to series regular. "When we started talking about going to Guatemala and leaving Claire behind, it seemed natural to [think], 'If we're leaving her behind, maybe we should take one with us,' and to set Lim up. It all came together very nicely. Lim had a little fling [and] gets her groove back is kind of what it is, but then the thing she thought was a fling is going to come back with her. I think that feels nice."

At this point, The Good Doctor is no stranger losing cast members. So far the show has said goodbye to Chuku Modu (Dr. Jared Kalu), Beau Garrett (Jessica Preston), Tamlyn Tomita (Allegra Aoki), Nicholas Gonzalez (Dr. Neil Melendez), and most recently Antonia Thomas (Dr. Claire Browne), who departed the show at the end of season 4. Ahead of the fifth season, Noah Galvin and Bria Samone were promoted to series regulars after recurring in season 4 as new surgical residents.

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We'll have to wait and see how the show explains Benavides' departure. The Good Doctor airs Mondays at 10 p.m. ET/PT on ABC.

Related content:
Iran is believed by the U.S. to be responsible for last week's attack on al-Tanf, a base in southern Syria where U.S. troops are located, according to a U.S. official.

U.S. officials confirm that five drones were launched from within Syria in the attack on al-Tanf.

Last week, U.S. Central Command called the attack "deliberate and coordinated," but no injuries were reported among U.S. troops, U.S. Central Command spokesman Navy Captain Bill Urban said in a statement on the day of the attack.

Previous attacks on U.S. troops in Syria have been carried out by militias backed by Iran, usually in Iraq, which always gave Iran a level of deniability, but in this case, it's Iran that is believed to bear direct responsibility.

There are about 200 U.S. military troops based at al-Tanf, which is controlled by Syrian opposition forces. American troops advise and train Syrian opposition forces as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, set up in 2014 to contain the threat of ISIS in Iraq and Syria. Lately, Inherent Resolve has been transitioning to more of an advisory role to assist Iraq and opposition forces in Syria.

At the same time, the Biden administration has been trying to get Iran to return to nuclear negotiations. However, the special envoy to Iran, Robert Malley, said Monday that the patience of the U.S. and other countries with Iran's delay in returning to talks is "wearing thin," and diplomatic efforts are in a "critical place."

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Kyrsten Sinema

Alex Wong/Getty Kyrsten Sinema

For the second time in recent weeks, Arizona Sen. Kyrsten Sinema was confronted by a protestor  this time while walking through the airport.

According to reports, the centrist Democrat whose vote is key to ongoing negotiations over a major spending bill, could be heard saying "don't touch me" as a woman who identified herself as a constituent confronted the lawmaker about climate change.

Footage of the exchange shared to Twitter on Monday by progressive activist Jordan Uhl shows Sinema, 44, chatting with Republican Sen. Tim Scott as they walk through the airport.

In the video, a woman approaches Sinema and begins walking alongside her, accusing the Democrat of meeting with lobbyists instead of constituents and asking, "What are you going to do about climate change?"

In the video, Sinema tells Scott: "Sorry about this."

"I think it's par for the course," Scott said, according to the outlet.

In a statement to PEOPLE, a Sinema spokesperson said "Kyrsten and our team regularly meet with individuals and groups from across Arizona on a consistent basis, including a recent roundtable on local infrastructure issues."

"As she has said publicly, Kyrsten will continue meeting with Arizonans with diverse views to inform her work in the Senate," the spokesperson said, pointing constituents with "comments, concerns, or requests for assistance" to Sinema's website and office.

RELATED: Kyrsten Sinema Wears 'Dangerous Creature' Sweater to Preside Over Senate  and Mitt Romney Reacts

The Monday incident comes on the heels of another confrontation earlier this month at Arizona State University, were Sinema is a lecturer.

After being followed through a building by activists with the group LUCHA Arizona urging her to sign a pending infrastructure spending bill on Oct. 3, Sinema told the group she was "heading out."

She then entered a restroom  but was followed by some of the protesters.

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BREAKING: Blanca, an AZ immigrant youth confronts @SenatorSinema inside her classroom, where she teaches @ ASU. "in 2010 both my grandparents got deported bc of SB1070...my grandfather passed away 2 wks ago & I wasn't able to go to Mexico bc there is no pathway to citizenship." pic.twitter.com/JDZYY2fOD2  LUCHA Arizona (@LUCHA_AZ) October 3, 2021

Footage of that incident show the protesters walking up to the bathroom stall as Sinema enters and shuts it behind her.

One day later, Sinema released a statement calling the events at ASU "unacceptable."

"Yesterday, several individuals disrupted my class at Arizona State University. After deceptively entering a locked, secure building, these individuals filmed and publicly posted videos of my students without their permission  including footage taken of both my students and I using a restroom," the statement read.

Her statement continued: "Yesterday's behavior was not legitimate protest. It is unacceptable for activist organizations to instruct their members to jeopardize themselves by engaging in unlawful activities such as gaining entry to closed university buildings, disrupting learning environments, and filming students in a restroom."

Sinema added then that the protesters were members of an activist group that "both my team and I have met with several times since I was elected to the Senate."

RELATED: 'Personal Family Matter' Kept Two Senators from Vote on Jan. 6 Commission

Sinema's unorthodox politics  described as either moderate or uncooperative, depending on the view  have made her a divisive figure among Democrats since she won her race in 2018.

She has voted against some major priorities for her party, such as a minimum wage increase. In recent weeks, she's been accused by some members of her own party of "standing in the way" of the passage of many of President Joe Biden's key agenda items, including a proposed $3.5 trillion spending package. Sinema has said for months that she would not support such a sum.

Over the summer, nearly 50 liberal activists were arrested protesting outside of Sinema's Arizona office in the wake of her vote against the $15 minimum wage and her refusal to eliminate the filibuster in order to pass new voting rights legislation this year even as advocates said such reforms were crucial.

"Kyrsten has always promised Arizonans she would be an independent voice for the state  not for either political party," a spokesman told The New York Times earlier this year. "She's delivered on that promise and has always been honest about where she stands."
VEVAY, Ind.  Kat Von D really is putting her money where her mouth is.

Almost a year after buying a historical home in southern Indiana, the 39-year-old tattoo artist and entrepreneur announced plans Monday to close her famous Hollywood tattoo shop and move to the Midwest permanently.

Kat Von D, whose real name Katherine Von Drachenberg, said she plans to reopen the shop in Indiana, where she bought the historic Benjamin Schenk Mansion last December. Vevay is in Switzerland County on the Indiana-Kentucky border and about an hour from both Cincinnati and Louisville.

She announced the move with an Instagram post Monday, accompanied by a photo graphic emblazoned with the message "Goodbye California!" in big red letters.

More: Travis Barker gets Kourtney Kardashian's name tattooed on his chest

"The more time we spend out there we realize we feel more at home there than we do here in LA," she said in the Instagram post. "After much thought, we have decided we will permanently be moving to Indiana at the end of this year. We plan on selling our beautiful home here, and I will most likely open a private studio in Indiana once we are done with the house remodel there."

She added in her post that she will be closing High Voltage Tattoo, her stop in West Hollywood on Dec. 1.

"I didnt think it would make sense to keep it open if I wasnt present, and aside from coming back to work on music with my band, we dont plan on returning to LA very often," she wrote.

Last year, she cited California's "terrible policies, tyrannical government overreach, ridiculous taxing, amongst so much more corruption" as her motivations for moving to moving to rural southern Indiana, as well as a desire to live in a small town and be closer to nature.

This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Kat Von D moving to Indiana, closing High Voltage Tattoo in LA
Britain's Queen Elizabeth II will not travel to Scotland next week as planned as she continues to follow doctors' advice to rest.

The queen had been scheduled to attend an evening reception next Monday at the 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, or COP26, in Glasgow.

Instead, Queen Elizabeth, 95, will stay at Windsor Castle and deliver an address to attendees via a recorded video message, Buckingham Palace said in a statement Tuesday.

The palace noted the queen was "disappointed not to attend" and said she has been "undertaking light duties" at Windsor Castle and "following advice to rest."

The queen spent one night in the hospital last week for "preliminary investigations." She was released the next day, on Oct. 21, and was back at her desk at Windsor Castle that afternoon, a palace spokesperson confirmed last week.

No further details about her condition were released by the palace.

The queen made her first public appearance since her hospitalization on Tuesday, when she held a virtual audience at Windsor Castle to receive South Korea's ambassador to the United Kingdom, Gunn Kim.

PHOTO: Queen Elizabeth II appears on a screen via videolink from Windsor Castle, where she is in residence, during a virtual audience at Buckingham Palace, London, Oct. 26, 2021. (Victoria Jones/Pool via AP)

The queen, wearing a yellow dress and a pearl necklace, spoke with the ambassador via video link from the royal residence in England's Berkshire county, where she has been staying since her hospitalization.

MORE: Queen Elizabeth was hospitalized for 'preliminary investigations'

Last week, Queen Elizabeth hosted a reception at Windsor Castle for a global investment summit where she met with leaders, including Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and U.S. climate envoy John Kerry.

PHOTO: Britain's Queen Elizabeth at a reception for the Global Investment Summit in Windsor Castle, Windsor, Britain, Oct. 19, 2021. (Alastair Grant/Pool via Reuters, FILE)

Just prior to her hospitalization, Queen Elizabeth was also forced to cancel a trip to Northern Ireland under orders from her medical team to rest.

Queen Elizabeth to skip climate summit in Scotland as she recovers after hospitalization originally appeared on goodmorningamerica.com
Black Lives Matter Protests Held In Cities Nationwide

Elijah Nouvelage

Residents and trustees living in the village of Dolton, a small community located just south of Chicago, are outraged by the Mayors most recent hire.

Village records obtained by FOX 32 show that Doltons Mayor, Tiffany Henyard, hired a formerly convicted sex offender to inspect homes and businesses within the area for code violations. The employee has been identified as 46-year-old Lavelle Redmond. The Illinois native previously spent 24 years in prison after pleading guilty for his connection to a vicious rape incident involving two underage girls. In 1991, Redmond was accused of kidnapping and raping the teens with the help of three other suspects in Chicagos Roseland area. The girls were just 13 and 14-year-old during the time of the incident. A then 17-year-old Redmond was sentenced to 50 years in prison, however, he was later paroled in 2016.

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The towns trustees are now demanding answers and many are appalled by the Mayors major oversight considering Redmonds name is registered on the Illinois State Police child sex offenders list. Despite the slew of backlash, Henyard, who became the first woman and the youngest person to occupy Doltons mayorial seat back in May, stood by her decision to hire Redmond.

I and the Village of Dolton take the safety of our residents very serious [sic], and we would never put our residents in jeopardy, Henyard said in a statement according to the Daily Mail.

In regard to the matter of the employee who is the subject of recent news stories, know that the incident referred to, occurred nearly 30 yeas ago and they paid their debt to society. We believe that a person can be rehabilitated, and we believe in second chances.

A female resident said she would be terrified to know now if he had come to my house to do a code inspection. Ill be terrified, while another asked, Oh my god. Dont they supposed to do background checks before they allow these people to in these kind of positions?

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Redmonds story raised red flags for community members of Dolton, in particular, because of the recent murder of 19-year-old Miya Marcano. The former Valencia College students body was found near the Tymber Skan on the Lake Apartments on Oct. 2. Orange County department Sheriff John Mina revealed that the suspect, 27-year-old Armando Manuel Caballero, was responsible for Marcanos death, however, he died of an apparent suicide on Sept. 27.

Authorities believe Caballero, who was a maintenance worker at the Arden Villas Luxury Apartments, used his master key to enter Marcanos apartment. Cell phone records also indicate that Caballero was in or near the apartment complex the day that Marcano was reported missing, the sheriff added. Marcano lived and worked at the apartment complex.

Earlier this month, Mina offered a horrifying update about the case revealing that Marcano had been bound with black duct tape on her feet and hands when investigators found her at the crime scene, ABC News reported. Her mouth was also covered with black duct tape. Marcanos family has since filed a wrongful death suit demanding for the Arden Villas Luxury complex to take responsibility for their negligence in connection to the slain teens death. According to CNN, the family is also seeking $30,000 in damages.

RELATED CONTENT: Black Woman Fatally Shot By White Woman After Experiencing Mental Health Crisis
Amanda and Roger pose for a selfie in Sedona, Arizona after meeting for the first time.

Imagine discovering, as an adult, that you've got a long-lost sibling living in another part of the world. It may sound like the far-fetched plot of a television drama series, but for Amanda Gordon and Roger Horikoshi, it's reality. The half-siblings were born in Seoul, South Korea, and were adopted by separate families as children, having no memory of each other. But thanks to some DNA testing and Travel + Leisure's new video series, Meet Me in the Middle, the pair not only found each other, but also met in person for the first time at L'Auberge de Sedona Hotel in Sedona, Arizona  the midpoint between Amanda's home in New York City and Roger's home in Honolulu.

After their once-in-a-lifetime trip exploring Sedona and making up for lost time, we caught up with Amanda and Roger. It turns out, the siblings extended their reunion with a subsequent trip to Hawaii, where Amanda spent a few weeks with Roger's family. Here's what they said about their time together.

Travel + Leisure: How has this experience changed your life?

Roger: The experience of discovering Amanda, and then getting to meet in person, has grown my family tree like I never would have imagined. It stirred up conversations with Amanda and with my family about ourselves that we'd otherwise never have, and it's enabled a wonderful evolution of our relationships that brought us closer together.

Also, having our meeting by way of a curated T+L vacation and sharing it publicly turned the experience into a triple play on my bucket list of life memories!

Amanda: It has truly been the silver lining of 2020-2021. This pandemic has personally brought job loss, and so much darkness to the world, but being able to find my half-brother, connect with him, and spend time together is something beyond what I thought was possible! It was such a fun surprise when I discovered Roger was also adopted and raised in Hawaii. It brought me immense joy knowing that we were on the same wavelength about wanting to connect with each other and I love that each of our families are excited to have a newly extended family!

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Did your first in-person interaction play out the way you imagined it would?

Amanda: I honestly didn't know what to expect in terms of how we'd officially meet in-person, since the whole trip had an itinerary that was unfolding in real-time to keep the surprise. It was pretty funny ahead of the big reveal, because we were staying at the same hotel and didn't want to accidentally run into each other. When I was about 10 minutes from the hotel, I texted Roger to stay clear of the lobby! Luckily, he had just finished checking in and was on the way to his room. Success! The next morning, I was fully prepared to ugly cry, but once I saw Roger, I was simply overjoyed and smiling ear to ear!

Roger: It was mostly a lot of excitement and a bit of shock that our actual meeting was not only happening, but [happening] in such an epic fashion.

Do you think meeting in Sedona added something special to your first interaction that meeting in one of your hometowns wouldn't have offered?.

Amanda: Absolutely! It was great being able to explore a new city together. Everything was a new experience for both of us to truly make new memories together. Sedona will forever hold a special place in my heart now. The red rocks and open sky are so breathtaking, and so different from Manhattan and Hawaii, so it was nice that we both got to experience a new environment and do activities we wouldn't normally do in either of our hometowns.

Roger: Neither of us had visited Sedona before, so it was cool to have a mutually novel setting. The meeting location itself was a remarkable oasis, like something straight from an animation or storybook.

Related: The Ultimate Arizona Road Trip Itinerary

How did the continued part of your reunion in Hawaii go? Did you learn anything else interesting about each other, or discover anything else you have in common (like both learning to drive in a Jeep Grand Cherokee)?

Roger: Our family here was overjoyed to meet Amanda! I was surprised by how many things Amanda and I have in common, as she loved trying all the local cuisine and exploring just about anything. I'd known that Amanda loved the arts, but I was blown away that she knew pretty much all of the artists behind the "POW! WOW!" murals. It was also interesting when Amanda mentioned that she seems to have luck, as I feel the same, and it's probably based on our similarly optimistic mindset on life.

Amanda: It was wonderful! Not only did I gain a brother, but I also gained an amazing sister-in-law, Ashley, and two adorable young nephews!

I was happy to learn that we are both people who will wake up early for a good daybreak destination (I highly recommend Makapu'u Tide Pools) or catching a beautiful sunset (we hiked Koko Head Crater the day I landed!) We also discovered that we're both huge fans of Reggie Watts and Marc Rebillet! As a music and comedy fan, I was very relieved to know my brother has good taste in both!

Towards the end of the trip, I was able to take some photos at Kualoa Ranch to show my dinosaur-loving nephew. It was so sweet, because after returning to NYC, he made his own conclusion as to why I wasn't in Hawaii and told his parents, "Aunty went to see dinosaur bones." My heart absolutely melted!

Has this experience inspired you to plan family reunions in various cities in the future?

Amanda: The invite is always open for Roger's family to come to NYC or to visit my parents in Texas. I know my family would love to visit Hawaii to meet our newly extended family and I love traveling, so I am always down to meet somewhere new, or revisit places I've been to before, to create new memories with them. I think once the kids are older we'll be able to plan future family reunions. I haven't been back to Seoul yet, so I think that would be an amazing international destination we could explore with our families in the future.

Roger: With our families in several places [across the country], Amanda and I are stoked about the endless possibilities for a future meetup!
Photo credit: Warner Bros.

There is no Dune without Arrakis and there is no Arrakis without the desertand, for director Denis Villeneuve, there is no Arrakis nor desert nor Dune without real sand and horizon and oppressive heat for his sweating actors.

Villeneuve has shot in deserts before, including for August 32nd on Earth (Utah salt flats) Incendies (the middle east), Sicario (Chihuahuan desert), and in his last film Blade Runner 2049 (where the team shot a post-apocalyptic Las Vegas).

In an interview with the New York Times, Villeneuve explained his fascination. In the desert I feel strangely at home, he said. [Deserts] reflect your interiority, and the deeper you go in the desert, the deeper you go in yourself. That kind of introspection always had a very deep melancholic impact on me.

So much of the world of Dune relies on the desert, what it holds, what it does to Paulit charms and fanaticizes. When Paul is for the first time in contact with the desert, Villeneuve said, [it] feels strangely familiar. That for me is the moment that deeply moves me. The fact that he is in a totally alien landscape, but he feels at home.

Because of these moods, Villeneuve insisted on filming Dune on location, even though he had the resources to shoot most of the story in a studiocinematographer Greig Fraser, who worked on Dune, came from The Mandalorian, which famously makes use of real-time computer rendering on indoor sets.

There would be no compromise. The Dune production team scouted locations using Google Maps, looking for deserts with the sort of rock formations described in the novel. They considered Iran, Chad, Mauritania, and Libya. Villeneuve even took reconnaissance flights in a helicopter to scout locations.

Heres where the team decided to shoot.

Where was Dune filmed?

Photo credit: Warner Bros.

Dune was filmed in the deserts of Jordan and the United Arab Emirates, where temperatures reached as high as 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Dune star Jason Momoa (Duncan Idaho) said filming in the desert, where he had to run through sand and wind, was one of the most taxing things hes ever done.

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The scenes that take place by rock formations were filmed in Wadi Rum, a desert valley in southern Jordan. Because the location lacked the dunes Villenueve needed for other sequences, the team decided on a second location. After filming in Jordan, they collected samples of the sand in order to find the next best spot. The desert scenes were ultimately shot in the RubAl Khali desert in Abu Dhabi.

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Rust assistant director David Halls, who handed Alec Baldwin a prop gun moments before the fatal on-set shooting last week, was reportedly terminated from a previous film after a situation involving a firearm injured a crew member.

Halls was the assistant director on 2019's Freedom's Path when a gun unexpectedly discharged on the Arkansas set. A crew member from the sound department reportedly jumped back from the blast and incurred an injury, the film's producers told Deadline and CNN.

"Halls was removed from set immediately after the prop gun discharged. Production did not resume filming until Dave was off-site," producers told both outlets. "An incident report was taken and filed at that time."

For more on the shooting on the Rust set, listen below to our daily podcast PEOPLE Every Day.

The unnamed producers also told CNN that Halls "was very remorseful for the events, and understood the reasons he was being terminated."

"A new assistant director as well as a new armorer were hired for the duration of principal photography. Production of the film finished successfully," producers added to CNN.

Freedom's Path was produced by Rocket Soul Studios. The production company did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. PEOPLE has also been unable to reach Halls for comment.

Alec Baldwin - Halyna Hutchins

Jim Spellman/Getty; Fred Hayes/Getty

RELATED: Rust Crew Member Details Troubling 'Red Flags' on Set Ahead of Fatal Shooting

Authorities in New Mexico are currently investigating the death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, who died after being airlifted to the University of New Mexico Hospital on Thursday. Baldwin, 63, shot a prop firearm while rehearsing a scene on the set of the movie Rust, killing Hutchins, 42. Director Joel Souza, 48, was also injured in the incident but was released from the hospital the following day.

According to a search warrant affidavit from the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office, Halls picked up a prop gun from a rolling cart prepared by the armorer and handed it to Baldwin moments before the fatal shooting.

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Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free weekly newsletter to get the biggest news of the week delivered to your inbox every Friday.

As he retrieved the weapon, Halls yelled "Cold Gun!" (a phrase that is meant to indicate that the gun is not loaded and is safe to handle). Neither Baldwin nor Halls were aware that there were live rounds in the gun.

Halls has not commented publicly on the situation.

Halyna Hutchins

James Gourley/Shutterstock Halyna Hutchins

Baldwin first spoke out regarding the incident on Friday morning, writing on Twitter, "There are no words to convey my shock and sadness regarding the tragic accident that took the life of Halyna Hutchins, a wife, mother and deeply admired colleague of ours."

"I'm fully cooperating with the police investigation to address how this tragedy occurred and I am in touch with her husband, offering my support to him and his family," he continued. "My heart is broken for her husband, their son, and all who knew and loved Halyna."

RELATED: Rust Gaffer Says He Held Halyna Hutchins 'While She Was Dying,' Blames Her Death on 'Negligence'

The Rust film set has been shut down and production indefinitely paused following Hutchins' death, according to the production company, Rust Movie Productions, LLC.

In an email to the film's crew obtained by PEOPLE, the Rust production team said, "We are conducting an internal review of safety protocols. As with any ongoing investigation, we are limited in our ability to say anything further publicly or privately, and ask for your patience in that regards."
The initial autopsy of Brian Laundrie's remains did not uncover a cause of his death, though a more intensive examination will be done, a Laundrie family lawyer said Monday.

The inconclusive results came on the same day Florida police admitted that officers mistook Brian Laundrie for his mother during the week he disappeared from his family's home.

North Port Police Department spokesman Josh Taylor said Monday night that in the early days of the case, they thought they saw Brian Laundrie return in the family Mustang on Sept. 15. But it was actually his mother, Roberta.

We thought it was with him, Taylor said. But it was her wearing a baseball cap, and they have a very similar build.

Laundrie's remains were found last week in a Florida wilderness park after a monthlong search. He was the sole person of interest in the murder of his fiance Gabby Petito after the pair went on a cross-country road trip to national parks. Petito's body was found Sept. 19 near a campground in Wyoming.

The case drew worldwide attention and rogue investigations by social media users across the country, with many wondering if we'll ever learn what happened to the couple.

Steve Bertolino, the Laundries attorney, said in text messages Monday that he was told by police the autopsy by the Sarasota County medical examiner did not produce concrete results on Brian's death.

I was told the manner and cause of death were not determined and the remains were sent to an anthropologist (for) further evaluation, Bertolino said.

Laundries skeletal remains found in a Florida nature preserve were positively identified last week using dental records, according to the FBI. The medical examiners office declined comment Monday, as did the FBI office in Denver that is leading the probe.

Eventually, Laundries remains will be cremated and no funeral is planned by his family, Bertolino said.

No information has yet been released on what investigators found in a backpack and notebook found with Laundries remains.

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The manhunt for Brian Laundrie is over: What happens next in the search for answers to Gabby Petito's murder?

Brian Laundrie and Gabby Petito in their first and only Youtube video uploaded to their channel.

What's next in Gabby Petito murder investigation?

Laundrie was the only person of interest identified in Petito's murder, but he was never charged in connection with her death. He was charged with unauthorized use of debit card and accounts after her disappearance.

The two had been traveling around the country in a white van together, and suspicion emerged after Laundrie returned to their home in North Port, Florida, in the van without her. She was reported missing by her parents in New York days later, and Laundrie would not cooperate with law enforcement. Laundrie soon vanished as well, telling his family he was going hiking in a vast reserve near the home.

There has also been wide speculation about the issue of potential intimate partner violence in the relationship, stemming from police body camera footage from when officers in Moab, Utah, pulled the couple over Aug. 12 after a 911 call reporting that "the gentleman was slapping the girl."

Petito's death was ruled a homicide by strangulation. The coroner on the case said her body had been there for weeks before it was found.

Some experts have said Petito's murder could end up a cold case, with the only person to have been with her before the murder now dead.

"The investigation could go on indefinitely," Steven Capriati, a former Hillsborough County prosecutor, told local station WFLA. "If they go and decide Brian was responsible and theres no one else they can blame, then thats the end and the family will have to live with it and its a tragic incident."

Jill Hengel, Petito's great aunt, said finding Laundrie dead means answers for Petito's murder will harder to get.

"I don't consider that being justice, because the parents would never know what happened. And they want to know," Hengel told local CBS affiliate WTSP.

Blissful video, troubled travel: Police bodycam footage is latest twist in Gabby Petito mystery

Will we learn Brian Laundrie's cause of death?

The FBI said Laundrie's remains were identified using dental records, because only skeletal remains were found. That will make it more difficult to determine the cause of his death.

The remains were found in an area that had previously been submerged under water. Officials said Laundrie's father first spotted a bag that belonged to Laundrie, and law enforcement officials then discovered the remains and other belongings, including a notebook, nearby  after five weeks of searching by law enforcement.

Since an initial autopsy could not definitively identify a cause of death, Laundrie's remains will be examined by an anthropologist, the family's lawyer said Monday.

"There might not be a way to determine how he died," Jim Clemente, a former FBI profiler, told CNN. "If he drowned, for example, there wouldn't be any evidence of that on his skeleton."

Dr. Cyril Wecht, who has been involved in high-profile death investigations, said a key part of the investigation will be to determine how long the body had been there.

If he shot himself, that will still be evident, Wecht said. If he stabbed himself, that could be obliterated or markedly obscured by virtue of the post-mortem period and submersion in water.

Also a point of interest will be what the contents of the notebook found are and whether it is in-tact enough to read. The contents could offer clues as to what happened to Petito or whether Laundrie intended to harm himself.

Suicide was "always a concern" given his state of mind when he left for the hike, Laundrie family attorney Steven Bertolino told ABC's "Good Morning America."

Will the attention simmer down?

The Laundrie and Petito case has fueled nationwide attention, and sparked a barrage of speculation by so-called "social media sleuths." They have been following every step of the investigation, and sometimes sent conspiracy theories spiraling out of control.

Even after the identification of Laundrie's remains by law enforcement, the conspiracy theories have continued.

Some social media users have questioned whether Laundrie faked his own death to escape prosecution for Petito's murder, or whether someone else altogether killed both Petito and Laundrie. Both theories have no basis in the evidence.

'You miss the bigger picture': Everyone's talking about Gabby Petito, but they're having the wrong conversation, experts say

TikTok is on the Gabby Petito case: Are these true crime sleuths helping solve it?

Internet sleuths have also questioned the Laundrie family's involvement in his disappearance. The Laundries initially did not speak with police, directing them to their attorney after Petito was reported missing, fueling suspicion about whether they knew anything about Petito's death. Many have accused Chris and Roberta Laundrie of covering up for their son. Their lawyer has firmly shot this down.

Multiple times during the search for Laundrie, false sightings went viral on social media sites like Twitter, prompting police to put out statements disputing that Laundrie had been apprehended.

But the added attention was credited in helping find the bodies of other missing people. Petito's body was also discovered thanks to travel bloggers who filmed the couple's van nearby and reported the location.

Contributing: Patricia McKnight, Sarasota Herald-Tribune; The Associated Press

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Brian Laundrie autopsy shows cause of death inconclusive
Megan Thee Stallion is going to be a college grad!

On Monday, the 26-year-old rapper announced on Instagram that 2021 will be the big year she graduates college, posting photos with her bedazzled mortarboard and teasing more "graduation pics" to come.

"2021 finna graduate collegeeee  taking my graduation pics today " Megan wrote. "I can't wait for y'all to see."

Borrowing a lyric from her hit song "Hot Girl Summer," the student decorated her cap with the phrase "Real hot girl s---" in celebration of her upcoming matriculation from Texas Southern University. She matched her manicure to the school's colors, one hand reading "TSU" and the other "2021." In the two images that followed, Megan posed in black and proudly held her hat.

Megan Thee Stallion Instagram

Megan Thee Stallion Instagram

In June 2020, the three-time Grammy winner opened up to PEOPLE about taking online courses part-time for her bachelor's degree in health administration, revealing she hoped to complete her coursework in 2021 and throw an elaborate graduation party.

Megan Thee Stallion Instagram

Megan Thee Stallion Instagram

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When she ultimately moves her tassel, Megan knows she'll be making her late mom Holly Thomas proud.

"I want to get my degree because I really want my mom to be proud," she said of her mother, who died in March 2019 after battling brain cancer. "She saw me going to school before she passed."

The rapper, whose father died when she was a teenager, also lost her grandmother shortly after her mother died.

Megan Thee Stallion school

Courtesy Megan Thee Stallion Megan Thee Stallion school throwback photo - posted on Instagram in June of 2019

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"I want my big mama to be proud. She saw me going to school before she passed," said Megan. "My grandmother that's still alive used to be a teacher, so she's on my butt about finishing school. I'm doing it for me, but I'm also doing it for the women in my family who made me who I am today."

Though she was still mulling over her next move after graduation, the star said she was thinking about setting up a center to help her fellow TSU classmates land their first post-graduation work experience, and make the community a brighter place.

"I really wanted to be an administrator over a hospital, but I knew I still wanted to be Megan Thee Stallion. I was like, 'What can I do?'" she told PEOPLE in June 2020. "I was like, 'You know what, I'm gonna open an assisted-living facility and use the money that I make from rapping to open it. Then I'm gonna let my classmates run it."
Jill Biden

PBS News Hour Jill Biden

Jill Biden is opening up again about how breast cancer has affected her life and her friendships.

Speaking to staff at the Medical University of South Carolina Monday, the first lady, 70, said that, in 1993, four of her friends were diagnosed with breast cancer  and one did not make it.

"[In 1993], four of my close friends were diagnosed with breast cancer. One of them did not survive," said Dr. Biden, clad in a bright yellow top and skirt, along with a silk face mask. "And I vowed then that, as an educator, I had to do something."

She added that she started the Biden Breast Health Initiative after the diagnosis of her friends "to teach young women about the importance of good breast health  to create awareness of how important early detection is."

The first lady's remarks came after one patient told those gathered at the event that she is living with metastatic breast cancer after being diagnosed in 2012.

"Too many women, particularly Black women, are living with breast cancer," the woman said, according to reporters in attendance.

RELATED: First Lady Jill Biden Asks Busy Women to Get a Mammogram: 'Nothing on Your To-Do List Is More Important'

Breast cancer affects one of eight women in the United States, which has witnessed a sharp decline in health screenings due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

On Monday, Biden said: "Our administration is committed, because during this pandemic we've lost so many screenings. We're down 10 million. We've got to make it up, whether it's breast cancer, prostate cancer, colonoscopies  whatever it is, we've got to continue to keep getting the word out, creating awareness."

Biden's visit to the medical center coincided with Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Earlier this month, she recorded a PSA as part of Lifetime's Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign. The spot will run on air as well as on the network's social media channels.

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"Take a moment to put your health first," she says in the PSA. "Get your mammogram. It might save your life. And nothing on your to-do list is more important than that."

Health has a been a top focus of the first lady's travels. She attended a listening session on Sunday at a Saginaw Chippewa tribe academy in Michigan, where she discussed the mental health of children and young adults.

Biden  an English professor at a community college  said that she's seen in her own classroom how the pandemic has impacted the lives of students of all ages.

RELATED: Jill Biden Reflects on Barbara Bush and What It Means to Be First Lady: 'Nothing Can Prepare You'

"I've seen that in my own classroom," she said. "Many of them have lost relatives to COVID. I wanted to come see this program, because I said to my staff, 'What are we going to help the teachers?' We want to do the right thing by our students and by our families."

At the Sunday listening event, Biden asked staff from Project AWARE, a program being utilized at the Saginaw Chippewa Academy to detail what they are doing to help students cope with loss spurred by the pandemic.

According to reporters, staffers said students are provided group therapy sessions with "calming corners" in the classroom to take mental health breaks

"Our mental health problem is so great and the needs are so great, especially after this pandemic," she said. "I knew Joe would see that and come up with this plan to give more money to mental health, and that's what he pledged to do. That's what gives me hope  that our nation is starting to heal."
Alpine Rescue Service via Reuters

Under almost any other circumstance, being the sole survivor of a horrific cable-car accident might be the worst experience imaginable. But for 6-year-old Eitan Biran, who lost almost his entire family when the cable car that he and 14 others were riding in plummeted to the ground in northern Italy, it was only the beginning.

Eitan, who was kidnapped by his maternal grandfather in September and taken to Israel, will now have to be returned to Italy to live with his paternal aunt.

Miracle Survivor of Italian Cable Car Crash, 6, Kidnapped by ex-IDF Grandpa and Taken to Israel

After spending more than two months recovering from injuries in a hospital in northern Italy, custody of Eitan was given by an Italian family court to his fathers sister Aya Biran-Nirko, who, like Eitan and his parents, were living in Italy when the accident occurred. Biran-Nirkos own 6-year-old was like a brother to Eitan before the accident and during his difficult recovery, and was ready to start school with him in September in their small town near Pavia.

The dramatic accident happened when the cable car that ferried tourists from Lake Maggiore to a summit 5,000 feet above it slid off its cable and fell to the ground. Investigators are looking at the circumstances around the crash and say that the cars brakes were jimmied open to override a warning signal and had been left that way for months.

In September, Eitans maternal grandfather, retired Israeli Defense Force Officer Shmulik Peleg, apparently decided that the boy needed to be raised in Israel, believing his late daughterEitans motherwould have wanted it that way. So the grandfather kidnapped the boy, drove him over the border to Switzerland, and took him by private jet back to Israel.

Peleg was not arrested for kidnapping, but a court in Tel Aviv ruled Monday that he violated the Hague Convention when he took his grandchild, ordering the return of the minor to his usual place of residence in Italy. Judge Iris Ilotovich-Segal ruled that the boy must be returned to Italy to live with his paternal aunt, ruling that because Eitan had been living in Italy since he was just 2 months old, it was his familial home. (Peleg was also ordered to pay the aunts legal expenses.) Peleg had argued that Eitan was not getting the proper medical and psychological care he needed after the accident, and claimed that his daughter had confided in him that she wanted to return to Israel to raise Eitan and his younger brother, who died in the accident.

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The judge said the ruling would take effect in a week, allowing Peleg an opportunity to launch an appeal, though she said that ideally, the two families should work together to find an amicable solution so the young survivor would have a chance to get to know both families. Such a connection that will allow him to feel a sense of belonging and a place to continue the legacy of the two families and to commemorate the memory of his immediate family, she said in her reasoning. There is always a choice regarding actions to be taken later. Hope has not yet been lost to mend the rift of the families.

Peleg says he and his family do not agree with the ruling and will fight to either keep Eitan in Israel or to legally return him through the courts. The family is determined to continue to fight in all possible ways, for the good of Eitan, his well-being and his right to grow up in Israel as his parents desired, Peleg said in a statement after the ruling.

Eitans aunts family told Italian media that there were no winners or losers in the tragic story, but that it was now simply time to think only of Eitan. The familys Israeli lawyer, Shmuel Moran, added, There are no winners in the legal process here, except for one winner, Eitan, who needs to return home as soon as possible.

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Discovery+

Filling the vacuum left by NBCs popular To Catch a Predator (which last aired in 2007), Undercover Underage charts the efforts of intrepid activists to identify and gather evidence on child predators so that local law enforcement can bring them to justice. A six-part docuseries premiering on Discovery+ on Nov. 2, its far from a graceful non-fiction expose. What it lacks in understatement, however, it makes up for with fascinating details about the way such monsters operate, and the canny techniques used to coax them out of the online shadows and into the light.

Safe from Online Sex Abuse (SOSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to prevention and awareness about online child sex abuse and exploitation, and Undercover Underage follows its members as they attempt to stop would-be predators from carrying out their repugnant intentions. SOSA was founded by Roo Powell, a 38-year-old mother of three who spearheads the outfits activities by posing as 15-year-old girls in teen chat rooms in order to attract the attention of adult creeps. Powell assumes manufactured personas for this plan, wearing a wig, communicating from a staged bedroom, and using a variety of lighting and image touch-up tricks to sell her ruse. Its a well-thought-out charade, and posing as Florian emotionally fragile high school student from Stamford, Connecticut, who lives with her single mother, a nurseit pays immediate dividends, eliciting tons of messages that range from the disgusting to the disgraceful to the outright abominable.

Netflix Tracks Koreas Most Notorious Serial Killer Yoo Young-chulWho Targeted the Rich, Then Prostitutes

Powell is aided in this quest by a Mission: Impossible-style support team that includes social media maestro Shelby Chikazawa, who juggles Floris numerous online conversations with different male suitors; visuals lead Matt Monath, who handles the creation and manipulation of the photos that Flori must invariably send to these men; researcher Kelly Becker, who helps piece together the information they learn about their targets as a means of properly IDing them; and Norwalk Police Department Detective Mark Suda, who consults with Powell about the legal ramifications of her endeavors, as well as poses as her Uber driver whenever Flori must meet the men face-to-face. Together, theyre a crack squad of experts committed to thwarting cretins who are consumed with abusing female minors.

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Through Powell and companys work, Undercover Underage reveals the clever tactics that must be employed to gain the trust of such criminals, whom Powell refers to as Adults Contacting Minors (ACM). Casually plying them for details about their locations, their professions, their families, and their cars is central to Powells investigations; much of the show presents her engaged in a virtual cat-and-mouse game of show and tell, with the latter routinely interrupted by the former, as one ACM after another tries to get Powell to flash some skin and/or engage in overt sexual activity over FaceTime. These men are, of course, happy to lead the charge in that sick regard, meaning that Powell often has to struggle to maintain a brave face while receiving a barrage of dick pics or, worse still, watching them masturbate during video calls.

The toll that nastiness takes on Powell is repeatedly evident in the three episodes of Undercover Underage that were provided to press. Still, the focus remains less on Powells internal distress than on her staunch crusading. Thats a shrewd formal decision, and much of the shows electricity comes from its portrait of pedophiles trying to ply their trade without getting caught. Outright lies about their wealth, their cars, or their current place of residence are generally their preferred strategy. Yet their deviousness extends to setting up in-person encounters with Powell and then lurking near the venues in order to ascertain if Powell is really a teenager (and not Chris Hansen or a cop) or masking their particular geographic whereabouts via the use of a VPN. Fully aware that what theyre doing is against the law and liable to put them behind bars for years, these menwho utilize pseudonyms in most instances, and whose voices and identities are concealed by the seriestake every precaution possible to make sure that theyre not arrested.

Powell and her accomplices are even cagier than their prey, tricking them with fake screenshots of Uber rides and honeypot websites full of photos and poetry, not to mention surveilling them on the streets so they can take down their license plate numbers and report them to the police. At the same time, the scary pervasiveness of online pedophilic behavior is hammered home via the revelation that two of the perverts Powell comes into contact with are actually public-school employees. If that doesnt turn your stomach, the crass requests she receives certainly will, along with the deviant head games these scumbags try to play with young girlsnotably, white knight reasoning in which they warn girls about the dangers of meeting strangers online while simultaneously casting themselves as reliable and noble men dedicated to upholding their honor (save for, you know, the statutory rape).

As is the case with so many kindred reality offerings, Undercover Underage cornily amps up its drama at every available opportunity. Montages which accelerate at a rate thats matched by the escalating, crashing-noise score are legion. So too are scenes in which Powell has to unexpectedly, and immediately, get on a call, thereby prompting her to run through her suburban-home HQ as a cameraman shakily trails behind her. There are also random, recurring low-angled shots of a staircase that leads into darkness, which serve no practical purpose other than to accentuate the mood of malevolent danger. Factor in lots of soundbite-y commentary from Powell and her colleagues, and the result is a show that cares about subtlety about as much as it likes pedophiles.

That said, no one is tuning in to Undercover Underage for a serene and sober treatment of Powells hunt for bad guys; theyre there for a bit of suspense, a healthy dose of sensationalism, and some enlightening facts about the schemes employed by predators, advocates and law-enforcement officers. If its first three episodes are any indication, the shows target audience wont be disappointed on any of those counts.

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Top election officials in a Senate hearing Tuesday detailed the stream of death threats and harassment that followed them after Donald Trump lied about his 2020 presidential election loss.

Tell the truth or your three kids will be fatally shot, Al Schmidt, a Republican city commissioner on the Philadelphia Board of Elections, quoted one such threat to him.

RINO stole election, we steal lives, read another threat.

Another said: Cops cant help you. heads on spikes, treasonous Schmidts.

Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, the states top election official and a Democrat, testified that armed protesters gathered in front of her house, chanting, Katie come out and play. We are watching you, after Trump lied that his loss in the state was due to election fraud.

As an elected official, I expected that sometimes I would have constituents who were unhappy with me, Hobbs said. But I never expected that holding this office would result in far-right trolls threatening my children, threatening my husbands employment at a childrens hospital or calling my office saying I deserve to die and asking, What is she wearing today, so shell be easy to get.

The hearing before the Senate Rules Committee was designed to gather testimony from state and local election officials about the torrent of harassment and death threats that followed Trumps lies about the 2020 election. The hearing was part of Democrats push to pass voting rights legislation that includes new protections for election officials.

Arizona Secretary of State Katie Hobbs, a Democrat, testified that she and her family faced constant harassment and death threats after Donald Trump claimed his presidential election loss in the state was a result of widespread fraud. (Photo: Ross D. Franklin, Pool/Associated Press)

The bill introduces new felony crimes for threatening, intimidating and disclosing personal information of election workers. It also expands the number of those workers who qualify for such protection.

Since Trumps various attempts to overturn his loss, state and local election officials, in areas of all political stripes, have faced a torrent of constant harassment and death threats. One in three election officials now feel unsafe in their job, and one in five believe death threats to be a main job concern, according to a report by the Brennan Center for Justice, a nonprofit that backs voting rights legislation.

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The Trump-inspired threats specifically followed officials targeted by the former president. Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger and those in his office faced constant death threats after the Republican election official refused Trumps request that he find enough votes to reverse the states election outcome.

It has to stop, Gabriel Sterling, the Republican head of Georgias voting system, said with great emotion at a Dec. 1, 2020, news conference. Stop inspiring people to commit potential acts of violence. Someone is going to get hurt, someone is going to get shot, someone is going to get killed. And its not right.

Raffensperger and his family were harassed and received constant death threats. We plan for the death of you and your family every day, one text to his wife read.

The committee witnesses also recounted how they, their families and those working for them received and still receive threats and harassment.

Hobbs stated that her sons phone number was posted online, and callers to the childrens hospital where her husband worked made false allegations about him committing crimes in an attempt to have him fired.

She also explained how non-election workers in the secretary of states office, in divisions such as business services, were also targeted with death threats and harassment that was not only frightening but prevented them from doing their actual work.

For my office, its been nearly constant, Hobbs said. Its wearing them down.

Schmidt said that he struggled with whether talking about these threats publicly would just confirm to the perpetrators that he read their texts or heard their calls.

But, Schmidt said, its important to know exactly who these people are.

Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams, a Republican, noted that not all threats to election workers in 2020 came from Trump backers. He said that his office received harassment after notable Democratic political figures, such as Hilllary Clinton, and celebrities including Ellen DeGeneres and LeBron James claimed that a decision by his office to cut the number of in-person polling locations for the states June 23, 2020, primary constituted voter suppression. The primary ultimately saw record turnout.

Adams did note that most of the harassment was just that, with limited death threats.

In Arizona, the political response to Trumps lies and the death threats targeting Hobbs and other election officials was to pass legislation stripping Hobbs of authority over elections for the 2022 election and impose a raft of new voting restrictions. They also authorized a partisan audit of the 2020 vote aimed at confirming Trumps baseless claims, although the so-called audit eventually found that Trump did, in fact, lose.

Republicans running the Pennsylvania legislature would like to pass new voting restrictions, but Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf would veto them. Instead, they are also pursuing an audit of the states vote in pursuit of upholding Trumps lies.

Hobbs urged the Senate committee to take action to enact legislation to further protect election officials as these threats increase.

Now its your turn, she said. Continued inaction in the face of these threats to undermine democracy will have dire consequences.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost and has been updated.

Related...
Oct. 26NASHVILLE  As the Republican-controlled Tennessee General Assembly prepares to return Wednesday to the state Capitol  where GOP lawmakers have called themselves into a special session to target vaccination requirements and mask mandates  one GOP lawmaker is denouncing what he called an "evil" federal government.

"There is an evil government in Washington, D.C., that is overstepping its bounds and is trying to replace God with it. They're trying to tell each and every one of us what we can and cannot do," state Sen. Mark Pody, R-Lebanon, said Sunday as he spoke at a three-day conference at the Opryland Resort and Convention Center. "Not on my watch. Not here."

Tennessee Democratic Party Chair Hendrell Remus on Monday sharply criticized Pody over his remarks, which were reported by Nashville radio station WPLN.

"I think those comments are dangerous, and they're irresponsible, especially from someone who is serving in a public role, as a public servant," Remus said. "As a parent whose child spent his entire fall break recovering from COVID, I'm appalled."

The livestreamed conference was hosted by Ty and Charlene Bollinger and their group Truth About Cancer. Their organization has recently focused on COVID-19 vaccines with information that medical experts say is often misleading or false.

The Center for Countering Digital Hate lists the couple among its "Disinformation Dozen" that it says head groups "responsible for the bulk of anti-vaxx content shared or posted on Facebook and Twitter."

Also appearing at the conference was conservative activist Gary Humble, the head of Tennessee Stands, which fought Gov. Bill Lee in court over his early COVID-19 restrictions and against local government entities over their efforts to stop the spread of the coronavirus. This year, Humble and others were a constant presence at the Legislature.

"We are responding to what we know to be medical tyranny," Humble declared in another break-out panel at the conference. "Health freedom, I believe, is the seminal issue of our time concerning liberty and how government works and concerning this egregious overreach we're seeing coming from the federal government and even in our state."

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The conference was held as a number of Tennessee Republican lawmakers are irate over local and federal COVID-19 restrictions ranging from local school mask requirements to President Joe Biden's plan to require federal contractors and companies with 100 or more employees to require they be vaccinated or be tested weekly.

"In the last few weeks y'all wouldn't believe what has gone on behind the scenes that allowed us to continue to have this conference here with no masks, no vaccine requirements and no social distancing. Like a conference should be held," Ty Bollinger said as audience members cheered and applauded, Nashville public radio station WPLN reported.

During his presentation, Humble noted Tennessee Stands had filed multiple lawsuits challenging the state and local entities on various COVID-19 mandates. Among them was one challenging Lee's decision to delegate authority to local governments to take actions  including mandating mask usage  to combat the spread of the coronavirus.

"Our organization also helped draft the bill that passed this year," Humble said. "Our state, no state agency, including public schools, can mandate a shot for COVID-19. So we actually were able to get that done in our state, and I'm thankful for that," Humble said amid cheers and applause. "In fact, there might be some in the room who were part of the 400 of us who showed up on the Capitol steps to make sure they knew we were watching, right, when they went in to vote."

Humble also advised audience members to be cautious of news headlines, citing a bill that he said prompted coverage stating "Tennessee bans vaccine passport."

"Everybody went, 'I want to move to Tennessee,'" Humble said. But the new law, he added, actually says that "government cannot require a business to require the use of vaccine passports."

"Businesses can require the use of passports here in Tennessee," Humble said. "Part of our mission is to make sure that in our state of Tennessee that citizens are aware of what the Legislature is and is not doing. And I hope if you do not have one of those organizations in your state, maybe one of you is going to start one."

Contact Andy Sher at asher@timesfreepress.com or 615-255-0550. Follow him on Twitter @AndySher1.
AMSTERDAM (AP)  An Amsterdam appeals court ruled Tuesday that a trove of historical treasures from Crimea that have been stored for years at a Dutch museum must be given to Ukraine, saying they are part of the cultural heritage of the Ukrainian state.

Ukraine's president hailed the decision as a victory for his country.

The judgment, which can be appealed to the Dutch Supreme Court, upheld a lower court's ruling and was the latest development in a protracted legal tug-of-war about the fate of the artifacts that stems from Russia's annexation of Crimea.

Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine in 2014, a month after the Allard Pierson Museum opened the Crimea  Gold and secrets of the Black Sea exhibition, sparking a dispute over where the borrowed treasures should be returned to. The exhibits have been stored in Amsterdam pending resolution of the dispute.

Russian officials and lawmakers vowed to appeal.

Nearly five years ago, an Amsterdam court ruled that the objects must be returned to Ukraine and not to four museums in Crimea that loaned them out for a 2014 exhibition. At the time, the court didnt rule on the actual ownership of the approximately 300 artifacts, saying that the issue must be resolved by a Ukrainian court.

Among the most stunning objects in the exhibition are a solid gold Scythian helmet from the 4th century B.C. and a golden neck ornament from the second century A.D. that weigh more than a kilogram (two pounds) each.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy commented on Twitter, hailing the long-awaited victory" and saying he was grateful to the court for a fair decision.

We always regain whats ours, Zelenskyy tweeted. After the Scythian gold, well return Crimea.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov wouldnt comment when asked about the ruling during a conference call with reporters.

Andrei Malgin, director of the Crimean museum, was outraged.

I lack words to express my indignation and anger, Malgin said in remarks carried by the Tass news agency. He described the Dutch courts verdict as a manifestation of double standards and a show of contempt for the cultural heritage of the people of Crimea.

Tuesday's ruling said that while the trove originates from Crimea and therefore may be considered part of Crimean cultural heritage, they are part of the cultural heritage of the Ukrainian State as it has existed since independence in 1991.

The court said in a statement that "the cultural interest that lies in preserving the museum pieces is a public interest of the Ukrainian State that carries great weight.

The court took into account a law enacted by Ukraine in 1995 that provides a protective regime for artifacts.

Even if the museum pieces continue to exist and stay undamaged, the Law on Museums has the purpose of preventing museum pieces such as these from leaving the Ukrainian States sphere of influence. There is a present danger of this occurring, the court said.

Alexei Levykin, the head of Moscows State Historical Museum, charged that the ruling violated the basic principle of the international exchange of museum exhibits  the items should return to the museum where they were taken from.

Biased court verdicts like that will effectively paralyze museum exchanges, he said, according to the Interfax news agency.



Corder reported from The Hague. Associated Press writer Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow contributed.
If you watch enough old movies, you know that there are two types of bank robberies. The fir
Today

Partly cloudy skies this morning will become overcast during the afternoon. High 81F. Winds NNE at 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight

Overcast. Low 63F. Winds NNW at 10 to 15 mph.

Tomorrow

Mostly cloudy skies early will become partly cloudy later in the day. High 83F. Winds N at 15 to 25 mph.
The Biden team has been short on high-profile detainee and hostages releases so far. It was an area of keen interest to President Donald Trump, who in keeping with his unconventional approach to foreign policy appeared open to outside-the-box machinations with regard to hostage negotiations, such as a high-level but ultimately unsuccessful trip by administration officials to Damascus aimed at getting journalist Austin Tice home. He also invited American captives who'd been freed during his administration to appear with him at the 2020 Republican National Convention.

The families note in the letter that they were optimistic following a February call with Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Since then, though, they say they have been unable to meet with Biden or with his national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, which leads us to believe that your administration is not prioritizing negotiations and other methods to secure their release.

When we do meet with other officials we feel we are being kept in the dark about what the U.S. government intends to do to free our loved ones, the letter says.

Asked about the letter, a White House National Security Council spokesperson said, The safe and prompt release of U.S. hostages and wrongful detainees will always be a top priority, never an afterthought, in all of our foreign policy decisions.
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Her attorney, David Michel (York County Public Defender) said the womans daughter-in-law had paid her bond and had not agreed to its release in order to pay what Yost had promised.

I will deny a continuance, she will have to deal with the consequences of not complying with her side of the plea agreement, Judge James Stecker said.

She is a person who is not suitable for incarceration and probation has recommended a fine, said Michel. The circumstances of this case were that her son arranged for this trip with this person. She was unaware of what was going on. Her co-defendant knew exactly what was going on.

There is an agreement in which she is supposed to pay $4,500, but she cant pay today? Judge asked.

Itll take just a little bit of time, Yost said. I believe I can borrow from my family. I apologize. I learned from this and set boundaries with my son  I cut off contact with him after this happened. Id like time to get the money together.

You are 63 and disabled, you have no prior record, the judge said to Yost. The nature of this case was possession of marijuana and THC, and it was more than 13 pounds so the quantity was not for personal use.
After the search was completed, she was read her Miranda Rights which she waived, and admitted to ownership of the heroin and methamphetamine. She also admitted to shooting up in her arms and that her last heroin use was in the morning, the deputy said in the court document.

The state is asking for a straight sentence, in line with the recommendation from probation, said York County Attorney John Lyons. We are asking for it to be served at the department of corrections, for the purposes that we are not equipped to accommodate her at the York County Jail. There is a medical facility at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women which could support her.

The Nebraska Correctional Center for Women is better equipped to handle her upcoming childbirth than the York County Jail, wed agree, said York County Public Defender David Michel. I believe probation with conditions is the proper way to go.

I apologize, Im sorry, this is embarrassing, Evans said to the court. Then, I was at a bad point in my life, Im clean now. Im having a lot of health problems and I am just about due (to have a baby).
As always, if we can be of assistance to you in any way, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My door is open and I have made it a goal to be accessible to the constituents of our district. Please stop by any time. My e-mail address is mkolterman@leg.ne.gov, and the office phone number is 402-471-2756. Tyler and Katie are always available to assist you with your needs. If I am not immediately available, please do not hesitate to work with them to address any issues that you may need assistance with. Please continue to follow me on Facebook at Kolterman for Legislature and on Twitter at @KoltermanforLegislature.
A SpiceJet flight operating the Bombardier DASH8 Q400 turboprop plane on the Hyderabad-Belgaum route landed at the wrong end of the runway at Karnatakas Belgaum airport. Following the incidence, both the pilots have been derostered, the airline said in a statement. While the aircraft landed safely at the runway, DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) and AAIB (Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau) have been informed and a probe has been initiated, said the company.

An airline spokesperson said in a statement that, On October 24, SpiceJet DASH8 Q400 aircraft operated from Hyderabad to Belgaum. ATC had cleared the aircraft to land on RWY26 (runway 26) at Belgaum. The aircraft, however, landed on RWY08 (runway 8)". This means that the plane touched down at the other end of the runway (termed RWY08) at the Belgaum airport instead of the designated end (RWY26) of the same runway.

The SpiceJet spokesperson said the aircraft landed safely and the airline acted immediately and proactively" on receiving the information and informed DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) and AAIB (Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau) about it and immediately off rostered both pilots pending an investigation. SpiceJet, otherwise, has an impeccable safety record in India.

The airline also announced recently that it will launch 28 new domestic flights across the country from October 31 onwards. It will launch multiple new non-stop flights connecting the tourist hotspots of Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Udaipur in Rajasthan with key metros and cities as part of its new winter schedule, SpiceJet said in a statement.

SpiceJet will also connect Bagdogra with Ahmedabad, Kolkata with Srinagar and add two new flights on the Bengaluru-Pune sector, it said. The expansion move comes after the government had on October 12 allowed airlines to operate domestic flights without any capacity restriction from October 18.

With inputs from PTI

Live TV

#mute
New Delhi: For the first time in the history of independent India, the extent of mis-governance has reached such a level where a blatant mockery of the publics trust has been live streamed on television said AAP National Spokesperson and MLA Raghav Chadha talking about how Former Goa Governor Satyapal Malik has gone all guns blazing against Goa CM Pramod Sawant and exposed a series of longstanding corruption in the state.

Interestingly, both the people in question are BJP strongmen with close ties to the Prime Minister who has remained mum on the matter. The Aam Aadmi Party demands that the BJPs Goa CM Pramod Sawant must be sacked immediately and an independent enquiry should be ordered against him.

Raghav Chadha said that when PM Modi was made aware of the incessant corruption in Goa, instead of sacking the CM he transferred the Governor. He added that PM Modis Na Khaaunga, Na Khaane Dunga statement is hollow like all his jumlas and gives a free pass for corruption to his chief ministers.

Chadha further said that when Goa CM Pramod Sawant should have been working to save lives during COVID, he was busy filling up his own coffers and amassing ill-gotten wealth.

The people of Goa will never tolerate corruption in the government and will not forgive the BJP. He stated that the only difference between BJP and Congress is that the Congress committed corruption in an unorganised manner and the BJP has given a streamlined structure to it.

Chadha reiterated that If PM Modi does not sack Pramod Sawant then it will be clear that the BJPs Central Command is in connivance with the Goa Governments exploitation, scam and corruption.

AAP Senior Leader Raghav Chadha declaring the topic to be of utmost importance said, For the first time in the history of independent India, a renowned Governor, holding a constitutional position with an illustrious political career, has filed serious corruption allegations against a sitting Chief Minister belonging to the BJP.

Even during the corona crisis, this CM has repeatedly caused scams, reeking of corruption from head to toe. A BJP Government deployed and sitting Governor Satyapal Malik has exposed this serious matter and brought it to public notice.

Malik Sahab had been a Rajya Sabha member since 1980, became a Lok Sabha member in 1989; served as the Governor for Odisha, Bihar, Jammu, and Kashmir during the abrogation of article 370, Goa, and has since been appointed as the Governor of Meghalaya where he currently serves.

Speaking to a journalist, he has revealed some appalling news, saying that the BJP Government in Goa and the Chief Minister Pramod Sawant have indulged in corruption every step of the way.

He elaborated that during the COVID-19 crisis, Goas Government was busy with its blatant scams and corruptive activities when it should have been feeding their helpless stomachs, supplying oxygen to the dying. And this isnt something any opposition party or group, AAP or Congress, is accusing them of, but a Governor appointed by the BJP itself.

The ex-Goa Governor said that he witnessed during his term, Pramod Sawant, the CM committed scams, that every branch of the Goa government is deeply infused with corruption.

Throwing light on Satyapal Maliks scandalous revelations, Raghav Chadha said, I stand by my comments on the BJP Governments mishandling of Covid in Goa. There was corruption in everything the Goa Government did. I was removed for my allegations of corruption against the Goa Government. I am a Lohiaite, I spent time with Charan Singh, I cannot tolerate corruption. It was done on the insistence of a company that paid money to the Government. I asked my people, including those from the Congress, to investigate. I probed the matter and I informed the Prime Minister about it. They asked the same people who are behind the plan about the allegation. They wont accept, as they are in the wrong. There is an area near the airport where trucks used for mining pass. I asked the Government to stop them in lieu of Covid. And then it became a hotspot for Covid. Today, people are scared to speak the truth in the country.

AAP Leader Raghav Chadha commenting on Satyapal Maliks statement, said, So when the Governor approached the Prime Minister Modi with serious corruption allegations, they chose to remove the one exposing corruption instead of the corrupt CM. This is the same Prime Minister Modi who said _Na Khaaunga, Na Khaane Dunga._ But _Yeh toh khila bhi rahe hai, khaane de bhi rahe hain_ (Will neither commit corruption, nor let anyone do it.But here he is found enabling corruption and turning a blind eye.)"

"This is the very government that would say Bahut Hua Bhrashtachar. Abki baar Modi Sarkar. They are giving a free pass to their chief ministers to mint as much money as they like, to loot as they please. The people of Goa will not tolerate this blatant corruption at the hands of Pramod Sawant and his government," said Chadha.

"This is not a political allegation. It is not being alleged by any political opposition, but a governor of the same state appointed by the BJP itself - having witnessed and investigated Goa Governments corruption first hand during his own term. The BJP led Goa Government is in fact not working in the interests of the people but with the motive to fill their own party treasuries," he added.

He further said, I have never in the history of independent India or in my brief political career witnessed a governor, holding an important constitutional position, expose a chief ministers scandal as major as this. This is a crucial development in the political trajectory of India. We should take proper cognizance of this matter."

"The Aam Aadmi Party puts forth two important demands today: First, we demand that Pramod Sawant immediately resign. He has no right to remain in a position of power after the recent revelations. Second, we demand a judicial probe to look into the scandal," Chadha added.

"It cannot be carried out by the Goa Government or any Central Government agency for they are biased and under the control of the BJP. An independent judicial probe is necessary in the corruption of Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and the Goa Government, he added.

The AAP Senior Leader continued, "It is noteworthy that the UPA Government and the CMs of the Congress left no advent to mint money and fill their pockets. But it is the BJP that is streamlining the process of committing corruption. They organised the entire setup, gave it a structure and are managing it more efficiently than their governments."

"This is the only difference between the Congress and BJP, the former committed corruption in a very unsophisticated manner, the BJP has given a shape to it. We dont just seek the resignation of Goa CM Pramod Sawant at this juncture, but we demand the man who said _Na khaunga, na khaane dunga_, Bahut Hua Bhrashtachar. Abki baar Modi Sarkar, our Prime Minister to come forward and speak to the people on this matter and give a clarification," said Chadha.

"We must not forget that these allegations have not been made by an opposition leader, it is one of the senior most leaders the BJP had, a governor with an illustrious portfolio and one of the PMs most trusted men who said this. If the PM doesnt act on the allegations of his own Governor then it will be evident that the BJP Government at the Centre has been conniving with the BJP Government in Goa. It will imply that the money minted in Goa reaches all the way to the top of the ladder. On behalf of the people of Goa, AAP demands that Goa CM Pramod Sawant be sacked immediately. This man doesnt deserve to stay in power any longer. He has lost all rights to his seat, Chadha further added.

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Ayodhya/New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party National Convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal reached Ayodhya on Monday to seek darshan of Ram Lalla and attended the Aarti of Maa Sarayu in the evening, while he will go to worship Lord Hanuman and Ram Lalla on Tuesday. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal knelt before Lord Shri Ram with folded hands and sought his blessings to make this country the best across the world. He further sought blessings from Maa Sarayu for the peace and prosperity of the entire country.

Kejriwal said that if the 130 crore people of India work together as a family by demolishing all the walls of differences and discrimination, then no one can stop India from becoming the biggest power in the world. He expressed his displeasure over the state of affairs in the country and said that our country should have been the number one country of the world because of the talent pool we have, but instead there is poverty, illiteracy and health crises all around.

The Aam Aadmi Party National Convenor said that we have proved in Delhi that honest teamwork can give out great results and anyone can look at our schools, infrastructure and water and electricity supply to see the proof.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal performed the Aarti of Maa Sarayu in Ayodhya on the banks of the holy river with the complete vidhi-vidhan. The whole Aarti was completed under the guidance of Dharamdas Maharaj. On behalf of Akhil Bharatiya Panch Nirvani Akhara, Arvind Kejriwal was honoured with the Angavastram of Lord Ram.

Along with this, CM Arvind Kejriwal also presented Angvastram to the sages and saints present there. Many senior leaders of Aam Aadmi Party, including Rajya Sabha MP and Uttar Pradesh in-charge Sanjay Singh and state president Sabhajit Singh were present on this occasion.

Honoured to have stepped upon the land blessed by Lord Shri Ram himself: Kejriwal

AAP National Convenor and Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal sought the choicest blessings of the holy Sarayu River and said, I extend my deepest gratitude to the saints and sages of the holy city of Ayodhya for the way in they worshipped Mata Sarayu during the Aarti. It honestly left me spellbound."

"Today, I feel elated to be on the holy land which Lord Shri Ram himself had blessed. It is an honour for me to be standing on the banks of one of the holiest rivers of the country. I pray to Maa Sarayu for the prosperity of Delhi as well as the state of UP along with the entire country, he added.

Seek Lord Shri Rams support and guidance to make this country Bharatvarsh of our dreams: Kejriwal

The Delhi CM continued, The entire country has been bravely battling against COVID for a very long period now. I believe that if the Devtas, Bhagwan Shri Ram and Maa Sarayu bless us at this juncture, then we all will get freedom from this deadly disease. I feel privileged that I could have the fortune of coming to Ayodhya to seek their blessings for this cause today."

"I believe that this country has been blessed with the sharpest and most brilliant kind of people who have the mettle to make our country a world leader. But instead, our country is bearing with poverty, lack of education, health crises, and all kinds of problems we dont deserve as a society. I bow down in front of the Devtas of the pavan bhoomi of Ayodhya, I kneel before Lord Shri Ram with folded hands and seek their support and guidance to make this country the number one country of this world. Bharatvarsh can see the heights we dream of for it if all the 130 crore people of India together make an effort to achieve it," the Delhi CM added.

No force is stronger than a team that works like a family: Arvind Kejriwal

Arvind Kejriwal concluded by saying, I am very young in age and dont have a lot of experience when compared to the dignitaries who are sitting here today. But what Ive learned while leading the Delhi Government is that when everyone works as a team towards a cause, keeping all their differences aside, then there is no goal that can not be achieved."

"If we do the same throughout the country and work together like a family that we are, then there will be no force strong enough to stop us from becoming a world leader. This is possible. We have proved it in Delhi. The schools, infrastructure, water & electricity supply of Delhi bear witness to it. The Lord has given a lot more to me than I thought I would. I just hope that the Lord blesses each and every person of this country like that and bestows peace, prosperity and happiness in their lives, he added.

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New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party on Tuesday (October 26) said that his party would launch a mega fogging campaign to fight dengue menace in the national capital.

MLA Saurabh Bhardwaj said that AAPs workers will take charge of protecting public health in Delhi and the partys MLAs and councillors will start a mega fogging campaign from October 27.

Taking a dig at the BJP-ruled MCD, Bhardwaj said, As everyone aware, in the past 1-2 months, all the AAP MLAs, leaders, councillors and others have held the Aapka Vidhayak, Aapke Dwaar program under which peoples problems were addressed through a local meeting. 2,532 such local meetings have been organised where people freely raised their concerns and it is evident that around 85-90 percent of their problems concern the MCD. People are especially upset with MCDs dismal state of affairs concerning sanitation. Additionally, the absence of action taken by the MCD to curb dengue cases lately. It seems as if Delhis BJP is conspiring to spread dengue among the people of Delhi instead. Such is the negligence shown by the MCD in Delhi.

Malaria inspectors and officers appointed to check for mosquito breeding spaces are required to perform door-to-door inspections, take relevant steps if breeding spaces are found, spray the required chemicals, and mark each house covered with the date of inspection. I would like to ask the people of Delhi - how many such inspections were carried out by the Anti-Malaria Department of the MCD in your area in the last three months, which is the peak of dengue-malaria-chikungunya season? An estimated 10 visits should have been conducted by now. But I can guarantee everyone that there is no way that even a single visit has been carried out yet. Neither have they sprayed medicines, nor checked for breeding; and lacked severely in fogging, where I assume not even 5-7 percent of Delhi has been fogged properly, he said.

Talking about the disastrous governance of the BJP he said, I challenge Adesh Gupta to come out and give us proof and tell us how much fogging has actually taken place. Reckless conspiracy is being plotted to defame the city, to put the health of its people on the line, to not miss a single opportunity to widen the reach of diseases like dengue-malaria.

Asserting that AAP will now take up the cause of public health, Bhardwaj said, The Aam Aadmi Party has spent a considerable amount of time discussing and pondering over the current state of affairs. Yesterday a meeting with all representatives, councillors, and district incharges was held where a decision was reached that the Aam Aadmi Party will defend the people of Delhi against BJPs plot to spread diseases in the city. All party workers, the 62 MLAs and councillors will collectively work to take the responsibility of every single ward, street, every corner of Delhi - that we will conduct the fogging in those places. We request and invite all the RWAs, NGOs, market associations, and other such organisations to support the Aam Aadmi Party and the people of Delhi in this mega campaign. Starting tomorrow, 27th October, we will commence this Mega Fogging Campaign. Moreover, checks for breeding spaces, and other required measures will be carried out by our party workers.

He further said, He asserted, It is shameful on BJPs part that despite having been in power for 15 years, they do not have mechanisms in place for a disease that comes around every single year. Our Leader of Opposition raised questions in the MCD, through which we were informed that the required anti-dengue/malaria medicines and chemicals were still in their tender stage for North MCD. You issue the tender, then you will issue work orders, get your medicines by December and then sell them - whats their use 3 months later? So AAP is beginning its mega fogging campaign tomorrow, and it is clear that it is MCDs responsibility that we are having to fulfil as a result of their failure.

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Jaipur: The Rajasthan Police has directed all district police heads to ensure strict compliance to the law that restricts the construction of places of worship on police premises, inviting strong BJP criticism which termed the Congress government anti-Hindu and demanded the order be withdrawn.

The order was issued on Monday (October 25) by the Additional Director General of Police (Police Housing) A Ponnuchami who has said that under the Rajasthan Religious Buildings and Places Act 1954, there can be no religious place in a public building.

He has said that all the superintendents of police in the state have been asked to ensure compliance to this Act. Reacting to the order, the BJP said it has exposed the "anti-Hindu" face of the Congress government.

"The state government should immediately withdraw this unjustified order. Traditionally, places of worship have been established in police stations even before independence and they are also worshiped. This maintains a pleasant and spiritual atmosphere in the police stations," BJP state president Satish Poonia said in a statement.

Party MP Kirodi Lal Meena termed the Congress government "anti-Hindu" and demanded the directive be withdrawn. Meena said the police are wasting their time and energy on issuing such an "illogical order" rather than managing the "deteriorating" law and order situation.

In the order, Ponnuchami has said that in the past years, there has been an "increase" in the trend of construction of places of worship in various types of office complexes/police stations of the police department in the name of faith, which is not legal.

The Rajasthan Religious Buildings and Places Act 1954 prohibits religious use of public places, the order said.

Also, there is no provision for the construction of a place of worship in the map prepared and approved for the construction of administrative buildings of police stations, the order said. It went on to direct police officers/employees and other unit in-charges to ensure the act is strictly followed.

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New Delhi: In a significant development, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested a serving Indian Navy officer along with two retired ones in connection with the leakage of confidential information related to the modernisation of a Kilo-class submarine going.

Top government sources told ANI that after the developments took place last month, the Indian Navy also ordered a high-level probe under a Vice Admiral and a Rear Admiral to probe the leakage of information and look for ways to prevent any such incident in the future.

"After getting inputs from agencies concerned, the CBI arrested a serving Navy officer of the rank of Commander (Lt Col equivalent in Army) who is currently posted in Mumbai for passing on unauthorised information related to the Kilo-class submarine modernisation project to retired officers," said sources.

The CBI has been questioning a number of other serving officers who were in touch with the arrested officers, they said.

The Indian Navy has been providing assistance in the ongoing investigations by the Central agency and providing its men for questioning by investigating officers, defence sources said.

The top brass of the government including the agencies looking after national security has also been given a briefing on the status of the investigations.

Sources said as soon as the matter was brought to the notice of the top Naval brass, they formed a five-member team headed by a Vice Admiral also started a parallel probe to investigate the matter and plug any other possible information leaks in the force and suggest ways to prevent them in future, they said.

Sources said the probe agencies have been monitoring the activities of a large number of ex-servicemen officers from all three services which lead to the arrests in the case. More arrests are possible as some more inputs have been received by them, they said.

Sources said the central agency is also checking the hardware and date accessed by the arrested officer in his official capacity and the possibility of it getting leaked to and external agencies.

A number of cases in the recent past have come up where defence personnel have been found compromised for leaking information to the suspected Pakistani agencies virtually.

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New Delhi: India in the last 24 hours recorded 12,428 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, which, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on Tuesday (October 26, 2021) morning said is the lowest one-day rise in 238 days. With this, the country's active caseload has come down to 1,63,816, the lowest in 241 days. Active cases now account for less than 1% of the total cases and currently stands at 0.48%.

The daily rise in new coronavirus infections has been below 30,000 for 31 straight days and less than 50,000 daily new cases have been reported for 120 consecutive days now.

The Health Ministry also informed that there were 356 coronavirus-related deaths and 15,951 recoveries in the last 24 hours.

Kerala, however, continues to stay the worst-affected as the southern state saw 6,664 new infections and 53 deaths.

ALSO READ | When will COVID-19 pandemic end? Here's what the WHO chief says

Over 11 lakh tests were conducted on Monday, taking the total cumulative tests conducted so far in the country to 60,19,01,543. The daily positivity rate was recorded at 1.10 per cent, while the weekly positivity rate was at 1.24 per cent.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has stated that over 107.22 crore vaccine doses have been provided to states and UTs so far, of which, more than 12 crore balance and unutilized doses are still available with them to be administered.

#Unite2FightCorona#LargestVaccineDrive  Indias cumulative vaccination coverage crosses 102.8 crore. More than 58 lakh Vaccine doses administered today till 7 pm.https://t.co/CiuzmV9r6d pic.twitter.com/zyfo8NEmJp  Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) October 25, 2021

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Another ad has now stirred controversy, following which Dabur India Limited has decided to withdraw its ad of Fem cream bleach, showing a same-sex couple celebrating Karva Chauth and watching each other through a sieve. The ad was slammed by a section of social media for hurting religious sentiments.

And not just some netizens, Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Narottam Mishra on Monday (October 26) said he has directed the state police chief to convey to Dabur India to withdraw an "objectionable" beauty product advertisement showing two women celebrating the Karva Chauth festival and take legal steps if the ad is not taken back by the consumer goods maker.

On Karva Chauth, married women, especially in North India, observe fast from sunrise to moonrise for the safety and longevity of their husbands. Karva Chauth was observed on Sunday (October 25).

"I consider this a serious matter. More so because such advertisements and clippings are made on the rituals of Hindu festivals only. They (the advertisement) showed lesbians celebrating Karva Chauth and seeing each other through a sieve. In future, they will show two men taking 'feras' (marrying each other according to Hindu rituals). This is objectionable," Mishra told reporters. The state home minister said he has directed the DGP (Director General of Police) to ask the company to withdraw this advertisement. "And if it fails to do so, take legal steps after examining the advertisement," he added.

But Dabur decided to withdraw the ad from all of its social media handles and even apologised for hurting sentiments. Here's what it said:

Fem's Karwachauth campaign has been withdrawn from all social media handles and we unconditionally apologise for unintentionally hurting peoples sentiments. pic.twitter.com/hDEfbvkm45  Dabur India Ltd (@DaburIndia) October 25, 2021

While a section of media welcomed the withdrawing of the ad, others said it was sad to see an "inclusive" ad being forced to be pulled off.

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New Delhi: Amid growing demand for reopening of the campus, Delhi University Vice-Chancellor Yogesh Singh on Tuesday said a decision in this regard will be taken after Diwali as there is a fear of recurrence of COVID-19 cases.

Singh also said that in a recent meeting of teachers and principals, he had suggested increasing the timing of colleges by a couple of hours to accommodate the extra number of students admitted and to avoid overcrowding.

Members of the Left-affiliated All India Students' Association (AISA) and other student bodies are on a hunger strike to press for their demand of reopening the campus for students.

The Delhi University had resumed laboratory classes for final year undergraduate and postgraduate students from September 16 but the attendance has been thin.

"We will decide after Diwali. There is a fear that Covid might recur. If the situation remains fine, we will think," Singh told PTI.

The vice-chancellor also shared that there are plans to increase college timings by a couple of hours. He had made the suggestion at a recent meeting of principals and teachers. The Delhi University already has some evening colleges. "We can increase the timing of the existing colleges by a couple of hours, which could lead to the addition of more sections. This can help in adjusting the extra seats created and the EWS seats. This will be better than opening new colleges. In Delhi Technological University (where Singh was the VC earlier), we had kept the timings from 8 am to 6 pm, which was helpful. In case it is done, the staff will come in a staggered manner and the teachers who have classes in the latter half of the day can come late. This was a suggestion in case colleges want to do it," he added.

Singh the move will lead to flexibility, and avoid overcrowding during the time of a pandemic while the timings of administrative staff will be from 9 am to 5 pm.

In a related development, members of the AISA and other student outfits continued with their hunger strike for the second consecutive day to demand the reopening of the campus.

On the second day of the strike, students raised slogans against the pro-corporate methods of the education establishment, according to a statement said.

"An all out attack on corporatisation must take place and the students, farmer and workers will continue to lead the way," said Jasbir Natt, leader of the farmer movement at Tikri Border addressing the students.

Professor Nandita Narain, former DU Teachers' Association president, spoke about the pitfalls of online education.

"Our students, the thinking minds of our country, are being converted into cheap labour for corporates. This plot of the government must be resisted," she said.

The students have decided to continue the hunger strike and shall assemble at the Arts Faculty. Earlier, they had decided to hold a 48-hour hunger strike but on Tuesday decided to continue it till they get an assurance from the administration on reopening of the campus.

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New Delhi: Former president of Delhi Sikh Gurdwara Management Committee (DSGMC) Paramjit Singh Sarna has sought clipping wings of Manjinder Singh Sirsa who, in the recent past, had lost his own seat in the DSGMC elections.

Sarna informed that he had written a letter to the Lieutenant Governor of National Capital Territory of Delhi Anil Baijal urging him to divest Sirsa of the powers especially over DSGMC funds and instead appoint a financial receiver for day to day handling of DSGMC resources.

The SAD(D) has urged the Lieutenant Governor to immediately appoint a financial receiver for day-to-day handling of DSGMC resources and divest Sirsa and his supporters of powers especially over committee funds till the court ruling arrives, said Sarna who is also president of SAD(Delhi).

Stating that Sirsa was no longer an elected member of the DSGMC, Sarna alleged that Sirsas nomination by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee had also been rejected by the Delhi administrations Gurdwara Director on grounds of his false credentials about his religious and Gurmukhi literacy.

Notably, Sirsa has already challenged his disqualification in courts and continues to occupy the office of the DSGMC president.

He is abusing his powers and Gurdwara resources on vested personal and political interests of his own and that of his party members loyal to the Badals in Punjab alleged Sarna.

In a letter written to Baijal, Sarna alleged  Sirsa, who faced a lookout notice and police cases over suspected embezzlement of Gurdwara funds is arbitrarily using DSGMC funds for junket trips with his supporters to the Northeast, Kashmir and several other locations without the mandatory approval of the DSGMC executive, which technically doesnt exist since the August elections adding that with a fleet of vehicles already available at his disposal, Sirsa, for instance, spend more than Rs 23 lakh on two expensive Maruti cars.

He said the SAD (D) had urged Baijal to immediately appoint a financial receiver for day-to-day handling of DSGMC resources and refrain from Sirsa and his supporters of the powers, especially over committee funds till the court ruling arrives.

Sarna said he along with other two former presidents of DSGMC including Manjit Singh GK of JAGO and Harvinder Singh Sarna had sought an appointment with Baijal to discuss the issues.

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Chennai: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is understood to have outlined his vision to use drones for postal package delivery in the countrys remote areas, during a meeting with Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder, CEO of Indian drone startup Garuda Aerospace. This is in line with the recent reforms in the Civil Aviation laws and regulations that were aimed at spurring growth in the Drone industry. Zee Media Spoke to Agnishwar to understand the progress that his startup has made and how long it would take for the Prime Ministers vision to materialize.

Agnishwar believes that the drone sector in India at present, is at a level similar to what E-commerce, E-learning were in, about a decade ago. He is optimistic that the ongoing decade would be one that brings drone technology, automation, artificial intelligence and their applications to the forefront. Elaborating on this, he points out how his firms fleet of drones are in use for a slew of purposes including mapping, industrial inspection, crop spraying, aerial surveying, search and rescue, sanitization, tunnel inspection etc. He adds that their drones undertook delivery of essential supplies to homes where COVID-19 affected persons were quarantined.

Queried specifically about the practical possibility of large-scale drone deliveries of postal packages, he says that there needs to be a wide demand for such services, for the industry to scale up to make it commercially available in large numbers. Besides the availability of drones, he also points out the need for technicians and pilots that would have to participate to make this a reality. Comparing it with the rapid growth of food-delivery apps and bike-borne service providers, he says that drones too can grow the same way.

Regarding the possible costs of drone delivery of postal packages and small cargo, he says we can estimate it at Rs. 80 for delivery within a 10km radius. However, with adequate demand and widespread service availability, the cost could be brought down to Rs.40 for delivery within a 10km radius. While delivery cost is one factor, another crucial factor is that drone makers would have to modify our fleet. This would have to be in accordance with the payload to be carried- given how delivering food or postal packages is vastly different from delivering envelopes.

Zee Media had earlier reported about Garudas expansion plans of expanding their drone fleet five-fold by 2022. On the status of the same, Agnishwar said, that they would be having about 1000 drones by December 2021(up from 300 in May 2021) and that they were on track to also achieve Unicorn status (firm with $1bn valuation) in the Drone-as-a-service sector by 2022. When asked about the competition that they foresee, he says that most companies in the sector manufacture and sell drones, whereas Garuda aims to provide the service on demand, thus saving the users from licensing, maintenance-related challenges.

We have signed orders worth nearly Rs.25crore and have orders worth Rs.65crore are in the pipeline. During the pandemic peak, we were catering to a large number of Government contracts, but now significant orders have started to come in from the agriculture segment. We are building about 25-30 drones of various categories per day at our Chennai facility to cater to the increasing demand he said.

Garuda was in the news recently, after Elon Musk had taken note of their Surya drone, which finds use in Solar panel cleaning operations. Shortly after being referred to in Musks tweets, the Indian startup raised $1mn in Pre-Series A Funding and are in talks with many foreign investors.

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New Delhi: The World Health Organisation's (WHO) technical advisory group is expected to meet on Tuesday to take a call on granting the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) for Hyderabad-based Indian drugmaker Bharat Biotech's COVID-19 vaccine - Covaxin.

Its expected that the technical advisory group will most likely consider granting the EUL for Covaxin in today's meeting. A top WHO official had earlier said that the process of thoroughly evaluating a vaccine for use and recommending it sometimes takes a longer time.

He added that it has to be ensured that the right advice is given to the world "even if it takes another week or two".

The World Health Organisation is very clear that we want all countries to recognise vaccines that have been given an Emergency Use Listing (EUL) by the WHO advisory process. But it's also very important that WHO, when it makes a recommendation like that, is making that globally, WHO Health Emergencies Programme Executive Director Dr Mike Ryan had said last week.

Ryan was responding to a question during a recent virtual Q&A on whether there will be a definitive answer on Covaxin EUL by October 26.

In a seperate tweet, WHO Chief Scientist Soumya Swaminathan had said that the technical advisory group at WHO will meet on October 26 to consider the Emergency Use Listing for Covaxin being manufactured by India's Bharat Biotech.

She added that the WHO's goal is to have a broad portfolio of vaccines approved for emergency use and to expand access to populations everywhere.

Before that, the global health organisation had sought one additional piece of information from Bharat Biotech regarding COVAXIN.

The WHO has, till now, approved COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Pfizer-BioNTech, US pharma majors Johnson & Johnson, Moderna, China's Sinopharm and Oxford-AstraZeneca for emergency use.

According to Bharat Biotech, Phase III clinical trials of Covaxin had demonstrated an efficacy rate of 77.8 per cent. Bharat Biotech's Covaxin is one of the three COVID-19 vaccines being used in India for the massive nationwide inoculation drive. The other two are the Serum Institute of India's Covishield and Russia's Sputnik V.

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New Delhi: Having already received 1,502.8 mm of rainfall so far this year, Delhi is poised to break the all-time record for annual precipitation. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the national capital gauged 1,534.3 mm of rainfall in 1933, the highest annual precipitation in the 1901-2021 period.

This is only the fourth time in 121 years -- after 1933, 1964 and 1975 -- that Delhi has received more than 1,200 mm of rainfall.

The Safdarjung Observatory, considered the official marker for the city, has recorded 1,502.8mm of rainfall till Monday evening. It is the second-highest rainfall in the capital since 1901 when the IMD started maintaining data, an official said.

To put things into perspective -- Delhi had recorded 773.2 mm of rainfall last year.

"There is a high probability that Delhi will see a new record for annual rainfall this year. Normally, three to four western disturbances are recorded every month in the winter season which leads to snowfall in the hills and rain in the northern plains.

"It's just a matter of one intense western disturbances," said Mahesh Palawat, vice president of Skymet Weather, a private forecasting agency.

Delhi witnessed one of the most delayed and erratic monsoons this year which yielded 1,169.7 mm of rainfall, the third-highest since 1901.

Normally, Delhi records 653.6 mm of rainfall during the monsoon season.

Last year, the capital gauged 576.5 mm of precipitation. It had registered 1,155.6 mm of rainfall in 1975 and 1,190.9 mm in 1964. The all-time record is 1,420.3 mm rainfall in 1933.

It was the third time in the last two decades that the monsoon rainfall in Delhi breached the 1,000 mm mark. The city had recorded 1,031.5 mm of rainfall in the 2010 monsoon season. In 2003, the capital had gauged 1,050 mm of rain.

#WATCH Traffic crawls in Connaught Place due to waterlogging as rains continue to lash the national capital. #Delhi pic.twitter.com/loQKImcC52  ANI (@ANI) August 21, 2021

September, in particular, was bountiful this year in terms of rains.

The capital gauged 413.3mm of rainfall in the month, the highest after 417.3 mm precipitation recorded in September 1944 and the second-highest in 121 years.

The September rainfall this year has been in marked contrast to last year when the city got a meagre 20.9 mm precipitation in the month against a normal of 129.8 mm.

Delhi received good pre-monsoon rainfall in May -- 144.8 mm against the normal of 19.7 mm.

In October, too, the city has gauged 122.5mm of rainfall so far. Normally, only 28 mm precipitation is recorded in the month on average.

Despite the monsoon arriving in Delhi only on July 13, making it the most delayed in 19 years, the capital recorded 16 rainy days in the month, the maximum in the last four years.

The string of rainy days brought 507.1 mm rainfall to the city, which was nearly 141 per cent above the long-period average of 210.6 mm. It was also the maximum rainfall in the month since July 2003, and the second-highest ever.

The city recorded just 10 rainy days in August, the lowest in seven years, and a cumulative rainfall of 214.5 mm, lower than the average of 247 mm.

#WATCH Delhi: Waterlogging at Janpath area after widespread rains in the capital.

Heavy rains lashed several parts of Delhi today. pic.twitter.com/skbaxXSrvL  ANI (@ANI) August 28, 2020

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New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Tuesday (October 26) directed the Uttar Pradesh government to grant protection to the witnesses of Lakhimpur Kheri violence in which eight people including four farmers were killed during a farmers' protest. A bench headed by Chief Justice N V Ramana asked the UP government, represented by senior advocates Harish Salve and Garima Prasad, to record the statements of other relevant witnesses before judicial magistrates under Section 164 of the CrPC.

"We direct the District Judge concerned to entrust the task of recording of evidence under Section 164 of the CrPC to the nearest judicial magistrates available," said the bench which also comprised Justices Surya Kant and Hima Kohli.

Statements under Section 164 of the CrPC (Code of Criminal Procedure) are recorded before a judicial magistrate and they have evidentiary value.

The bench asked Salve to convey its concerns to forensic labs and experts on preparation of reports on electronic evidence of the incident and also directed the state government to file its report on two complaints including the one related to the lynching of a journalist. "The state is directed to file separate replies in the cases," the bench said and fixed the plea for further hearing on November 8.

During the hearing, the bench raised the question over the number of eye witnesses made by the prosecution in the case and said, "The case is that thousands of farmers were going on and a rally was going on. Only 23 witnesses are eye witnesses?"

Salve said that out of 68 witnesses, statements of 30 witnesses have been recorded under Section 164 of the CrPC and some more testimonies will be recorded. "Of these 30 witnesses, 23 claim to be eyewitnesses. A lot of witnesses are formal witnesses of recovery and all," Salve said. He also submitted several digital evidence have been recovered and sent for examination by experts.

Observing that the probe into the Lakhimpur Kheri violence should not be an "unending story", the Supreme Court on October 20 had rapped the government, saying the court was getting the impression that the state police was dragging its feet, and also ordered the protection of witnesses.

The apex court was hearing a matter about the October 3 violence in Lakhimpur Kheri in which eight persons including four farmers were killed during a farmers' protest and over ten accused, including Union Minister of State for Home Ajay Mishra's son Ashish Mishra, have been arrested so far in the case.

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Panaji: Opposition parties on Wednesday demanded that Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant should be sacked after former governor Satya Pal Malik accused the state government of corruption.

While the ruling BJP in the state dismissed the allegations as baseless following Malik's TV interview on Tuesday night, leaders of the Congress, Aam Aadmi Party, All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) and Goa Forward Party targeted Sawant.

There was corruption in everything the Goa government did (during the COVID-19 pandemic). I was removed for my allegation of corruption against the Goa government, Malik, now the governor of Meghalaya, alleged.

He also termed the Goa government's initiative to distribute ration at people's doorsteps as "impractical", alleging that it was launched on the "insistence of a company that paid money to the government."

While chief minister Sawant has not commented on the allegations yet, an AITC delegation led by Lok Sabha member Saugata Roy and including former Union Minister Babul Supriyo and the party's vice president Luizinho Faleiro met current Governor P S Sridharan Pillai on Wednesday.

You must immediately seek resignation from the chief minister and announce investigation by an independent agency, the AITC's memorandum to the governor said. It also demanded a white paper on the government purchases and expenditures during the pandemic.

Congress spokesperson Gourav Vallabh said Malik's interview endorsed the corruption allegations leveled by the Congress, and demanded dismissal of the Sawant-led cabinet. He also demanded a time-bound investigation under the supervision of a sitting Supreme Court judge into the alleged corruption.

The ED, CBI, Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO) and other agencies should be directed to file cases against Sawant and others, Vallabh said, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi should explain why no action was taken even after "the governor (Malik) informed him about the rampant corruption."

AAP leader Raghav Chaddha, speaking at a press conference in Delhi, demanded that Sawant resign immediately and sought an independent judicial probe. The AAP also held a protest march in Panaji, led by its state convener Rahul Mahambrey.

A delegation of the Goa Forward Party, led by Vijai Sardesai, also met the governor demanding the sacking of the chief minister. Independent MLA Rohan Khaunte said the CM should be sacked and President's rule be imposed in the state.

After Malik's interview aired, Goa BJP chief Sadanand Shet Tanavade had said that the allegations were false and baseless, and they would be complaining to the Union government against him.

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Patna: Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav on Tuesday (October 26) said that he will ensure the "visarjan" of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the ruling NDA in the state as he will be campaigning at Kusheshwar Asthan (SC) and Tarapur by-elections for Assembly seats in Bihar.

Citing his illness, Lalu Yadav said, "I was unwell and was in detention because of which I missed two elections, but now bye-elections are happening and I have managed to come back because of people's love," adding that he will address the public in bypoll seats Kusheshwar Asthan and Tarapur on October 27th.

Making a dig at Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and the ruling NDA in Bihar, the RJD chief told ANI, "Nitish Kumar has been eulogised by PM Modi and BJP. Everyone was sloganeering `desh ka PM kaisa ho Nitish kumar jaisa ho` (A PM should be like Nitish). He was being touted as PM material...such arrogance and greed."

The RJP supremo, however, vowed that he will be campaigning at Kusheshwar Asthan (SC) and Tarapur byelections and ensure the "visarjan" of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, adding "I know Tejashwi is campaigning in both the places and is doing really well in giving a strong fight to the (ruling) NDA." He expressed confidence that his party will win the by-polls by a great margin.

Lalu Prasad Yadav also expressed confidence in his younger son Tejashwi`s leadership and lauded him for "handling the party pretty well in his absence". His comments came amid a strained relationship being witnessed between his two sons Tej Pratap and Tejashwi over the leadership of the party.

He told ANI that Tejashwi handled the party pretty well in his absence which was beyond his expectations and made RJD the largest party in the last Assembly polls in Bihar, adding "The way Tejashwi handled the party in my absence, it was beyond my expectations. Along with my son, every party worker worked hard and made RJD the largest party in the previous Assembly election."

The RJD supremo said, "The RJD would have been in power in the state but the present ruling NDA alliance in the state cheated to gain power."

The strained relationship between Tej Pratap and his younger brother Tejashwi has been evident after RJD students` wing state president Akash Yadav, who is believed to be a close aide of Tej Pratap, was removed from his post.

Earlier this month, Tej Pratap Yadav had alleged that his father Lalu Prasad Yadav has been held "hostage" in New Delhi despite getting bail earlier this year. Tej Pratap has also alleged that he has been stopped to meet his father Lalu Yadav.

Tej Pratap had also announced that he will announce a big step in the coming days while stating that he is no longer part of RJD.

Notably, Lalu Prasad Yadav returned to Bihar after over three years. Earlier in April, the Jharkhand High Court had granted bail to Yadav, who was undergoing treatment at Ranchi`s Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences for two years. He was shifted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi in January.

(With Agency Inputs)

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Mumbai: Maharashtra minister Nawab Malik has made one more allegations against NCB official Sameer Wankhede. Today (October 26), Malik accused Wankhede of illegally tapping phones and also announced that he will hand over a letter on the official's 'misdeeds' to the agency head.

"Sameer Wankhede, through two persons in Mumbai and Thane, is illegally intercepting the mobile phones of some people," said Malik, who has been targeting Wankhede after his son-in-law's arrest. Malik also claimed that Wankhede had sought the call detail record (CDR) of his family member from the police. Wankhede in his affidavit submitted to a Mumbai court on Monday (October 25) claimed he was under a "lurking threat of arrest as it does not suit some vested interests for conducting an honest and impartial investigation".

The official had also claimed that he was being personally targeted by a well-known political figure (Malik), and the only reason he can fathom is that the NCB had arrested "this person's son-in-law Sameer Khan". Malik said he is forwarding a letter written by "someone in NCB" about the various illegal activities of Wankhede' to the agency's DG S N Pradhan. The NCP minister said the NCB should investigate the 26 allegations in the letter claiming an extortion racket being run within the anti-drugs agency.

Also read: Former AG Mukul Rohatgi to represent Aryan Khan in Bombay High Court

"As a responsible citizen I will be forwarding this letter to DG Narcotics requesting him to include this letter in the investigation being conducted on Sameer Wankhede," the minister tweeted.

(With PTI inputs)

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New Delhi: Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi is presiding over a meeting with core party leaders, which aims to discuss the upcoming Assembly elections to Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur and Goa, among other issues.

The meeting is being held at party headquarters. On Monday, a party source had said that "a meeting of Congress general secretaries and state in-charges will be held on October 26 at All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters to discuss membership, training, agitation program and strategy for the upcoming assembly polls. This meeting will be presided by party president Sonia Gandhi."

Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi chairs meeting of general secretaries, State in-charges and Pradesh Congress Committee Presidents at party headquarters in Delhi pic.twitter.com/zuKLxAmjkf  ANI (@ANI) October 26, 2021

Pradesh Congress Committee presidents are also present, sources said. During Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on October 16, it was decided that organisation polls will be held next year and for that, a membership drive will be launched from November 1.

As per sources, the Congress party may hold the organisational election on September 6, 2022 and have its president by October. As frontal organisations like Indian Youth Congress, NSUI, Mahila Congress and the party's Social Media department have passed a resolution to make Rahul Gandhi as party president, it is expected chorus will be heard in today's meeting.

In the previously held CWC meet, CMs of Rajasthan, Punjab and Chhattisgarh Ashok Gehlot, Charanjit Singh Channi and Bhupesh Baghel, respectively, and other leaders had requested Rahul Gandhi to take charge of the party president post. On this, Congress Spokesperson Randeep Surjewala confirmed that Gandhi has assured to consider their requests.

(With Agency inputs)

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New Delhi: Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday (October 26) called on her party to "fight the diabolical campaign of BJP and RSS ideologically" and said that the fight to defend democracy, the Constitution and the Party`s ideology should begin with being fully prepared to identify and counter false propaganda.Chairing a meeting of the party`s general secretaries at the party headquarters, Sonia Gandhi also asked her party leaders to re-emphasise the paramount need for discipline and unity and train party workers on the unceasing onslaught of malicious disinformation campaigns at the behest of the BJP/RSS.

The Congress interim President said, "We must fight the diabolical campaign of BJP/RSS ideologically. We must do so with conviction and expose their lies before the people if we want to win this battle. The AICC releases important and detailed statements almost every day on issues that the nation is facing. But it is my experience that they do not percolate down to our grassroots cadres at the block and district level. There are policy issues on which I find a lack of clarity and cohesion even amongst our state-level leaders."

"You must train our workers to take on the unceasing onslaught of malicious disinformation campaigns at the behest of the BJP/RSS. And you must train our people to fight it while upholding and projecting the core Congress ideology," Sonia Gandhi said. She said that the party must re-double its fights for the "victims" of the present ruling party in the Centre.

Launching a scathing attack on the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led NDA government in the Centre, the senior leader said, "The Modi Government has sought to erode our institutions so it may evade accountability. Our own history bears witness to the fact that if an organisation is to succeed against injustice and inequality if it is to effectively champion the rights of the marginalised, it must become a widespread agitation down to the grassroots."

Sonia Gandhi also gave emphasis on identifying and assigning Congress leaders and office bearers for the task of enrolling members in the party in a transparent fashion. She also talked about the training programmes for the party workers."You must ensure the clear delineation of the responsibilities of these individuals at the state, district, block, ward and village level. This is a vital responsibility that you are entrusted with," she said, adding, "Training programmes for our workers are therefore an absolute necessity. I want to emphasise that you should take it on priority. The fight to defend our democracy, our Constitution and the Congress Party's ideology begins with being fully prepared to identify and counter false propaganda."

"Five states are going to election in the coming months. Congress party workers and leaders in these states are gearing up to take on these battles. Our campaign must be founded upon concrete policies and programmes emanating from widespread discussions with all sections of society," she added. Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi presided over a meeting with core party leaders to discuss the upcoming Assembly elections to Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur and Goa, among other issues. The meeting was held at party headquarters today (October 26).

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New Delhi: Interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi will be presiding over a meeting with core party leaders to discuss the upcoming assembly elections in Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Manipur and Goa, among other issues.

The Congress Core group meeting will be held at party headquarters.

As per the party sources, "a meeting of Congress general secretaries and state in-charges will be held on Tuesday at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters to discuss membership, training, agitation program and strategy for the upcoming assembly polls. This meeting will be presided by party president Sonia Gandhi."

Pradesh Congress Committee presidents will also be present as well, sources said.

During Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting on October 16, it was decided that organisation polls will be held next year and for that, a membership drive will be launched from November 1.

As per sources, the Congress party may hold the organisational election on September 6, 2022 and have its president by October.

As frontal organisations like Indian Youth Congress, NSUI, Mahila Congress and the party`s Social Media department have passed a resolution to make Rahul Gandhi as party president, it is expected chorus will be heard in the meeting on Tuesday.

In the previously held CWC meet, CMs of Rajasthan, Punjab and Chhattisgarh Ashok Gehlot, Charanjit Singh Channi and Bhupesh Baghel, respectively, and other leaders had requested Rahul Gandhi to take charge of the party president post.

On this, Congress Spokesperson Randeep Surjewala confirmed that Sonia Gandhi has assured to consider their requests.

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MUMBAI: Former attorney general of India Mukul Rohatgi, who appeared for Aryan Khan in his bail application in Bombay High Court in drugs-on-cruise-case, told the court on Tuesday that his client was invited to the cruise as a special guest.

He told the court that there was 'no case of possession of drugs' against Aryan Khan and that he was arrested wrongly. He also said "it was fit case for bail". Rohatgi said the law provides a maximum of one year of imprisonment for small quantities of drugs.

"Law provides that for small quantities, the maximum punishment is one year of imprisonment. For consumption, there is rehabilitation as per law," Rohatgi argued on behalf of Aryan Khan.

"Aryan Khan was invited by one Pratik Gaba. He was like an organiser. He invited accused 1 Aryan and accused 2 Arbaz Merchant. Both were invited by the same person. They both landed up together at the cruise terminal," Rohtagi said.

"It appears that NCB had some prior information that people on this cruise were having drugs so they were present in a certain strength. My client, Arbaz and many others were apprehended. A search was conducted and nothing was recovered from the accused 1 (Aryan Khan). No medical at any point was conducted to ascertain if he has taken any drug," he added.

Rohatgi said six grams of charas was recovered from accused number 2 (Arbaz Merchant) and Aryan had no relation with him except for arriving with him there. "There was no recovery. There was no proof of consumption," he said."Many others were found with some amount of drugs so they allege that there was a general conspiracy. They are not charging me with consumption or possession but with conspiracy and conspiracy not with Arbaz but others," the former AG argued on behalf of Aryan Khan in the courtroom arguing before Justice Nitin Sambre.

Aryan Khan , who is son of actor Shahrukh Khan, was arrested on October 3.

"His statement was recorded under NDPS Act Section 67, which was retracted the next day. We have raised this issue in the Supreme Court. As there was no recovery no consumption, I say that I'm (Aryan Khan) arrested wrongly. What is put against me is that accused 2 (Arbaz Merchant) came with me and was having something with him. So I am charged with conscious possession of drugs," Rohatgi said."How can I be charged with conscious possession if someone carried something in his shoes? There's one more thing put against me (Aryan) - my WhatsApp chats of 2018, 2019 and 2020. These chats are not related to the Cruise case. The cruise case started with Gaba (Pratik Gaba) and ended there. There is no connection between my chats and the present case of the cruise.

"Accused 2 (Arbaz Merchant) says that he was not having possession (of drugs) but it was planted on him. Whether it was planted or it was in his possession, I have nothing to do with that. Twenty-three days have passed till today and I had nothing to do with all this," he added.

The senior advocate told the court that there is "no case of consumption, possession, purchase or sale against" Aryan. He said the case has attracted public gaze and media attention only due to his parents otherwise this case would not have even been mentioned like this.

"I`ve filed a rejoinder that I`m making no allegation against any NCB Officer. I did this after NCB filed an affidavit on one of the Panch's allegations which have blamed one Pooja who is connected with me etc. I am not concerned with all that unsavoury controversy and I have no complaints against anyone from NCB or prosecution. Here we stand and I think that it`s a fit case of bail," Rohatgi added.

The court adjourned the hearing on the bail application till tomorrow.
Mumbai: Will Aryan Khan walk out of jail today? We will find out soon as the Bombay High Court is all set to hear Shah Rukh Khan son's bail plea later in the day today (Oct 26) in the Mumbai cruise drug case. On October 21, the high court had said that it would hear Aryan Khan`s bail application on October 26, informed lawyer Satish Maneshinde.

"We asked the court that the matter should be heard by video conferencing but the judge refused," added Maneshinde. A special court in Mumbai last week refused to grant bail to Aryan and two others in connection with the seizure of drugs. Following this, Aryan Khan moved a bail application in the Bombay High Court against the NDPS court order on his bail rejection. Aryan's friend Arbaaz Merchant's lawyer, who is also lodged in jail, also said that they will move to Bombay High Court after NDPS rejected their applications.

Speaking to ANI, Ali Kasif, Merchant's lawyer said, "We are trying to move the bail application of Arbaaz Merchant in Bombay High Court today. The other two are also likely to move bail applications in the High Court today." Also, as a part of the investigation, Bollywood actor Ananya Panday arrived at the Narcotics Control Bureau`s (NCB) Mumbai office after the probe agency summoned her for questioning in connection with the Mumbai cruise drug case on October 21-22.

Shah Rukh Khan on October 21 met his son Aryan Khan who is lodged at Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail. According to jail authorities, the accused were not allowed to have visitors earlier in the wake of the COVID-19 but the restrictions were eased. However, only two family members of an inmate are allowed to visit.

On October 20, a special court under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act on, denied his request in the drugs case, and later Aryan's judicial custody in the matter was extended till October 30.
New Delhi: 7th Pay Commission latest update --In what could be called as a bumper festive bonanza for lakhs of Central government employees, the Union Cabinet last week approved a 3 percent dearness allowance (DA) and dearness relief (DR) hike, which will benefit over 47.14 lakh Central government employees and 68.62 lakh pensioners.

"The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, today has approved to release an additional instalment of Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners w.e.f. 1.7.2021 representing an increase of 3% over the existing rate of 28% of the Basic Pay / Pension, to compensate for price rise. This increase is in accordance with the accepted formula, which is based on the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission. The combined impact on the exchequer on account of both Dearness Allowance and Dearness Relief would be Rs.9,488.70 crore per annum. This will benefit about 47.14 lakh Central Government employees and 68.62 lakh pensioners," said an official release.

It may be recalled that the Cabinet Committee chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had in July approved increase the Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners with effect from 01.07.2021 to 28% representing an increase of 11% over the existing rate of 17% of the Basic Pay/Pension.

Check out the following assumptive calculation. Let's assume the salary to be Rs 20,000 per month

Basic Pay = Rs 20,000/month

DA as per revised rate of 31% of Rs 20,000 = Rs 6,200

DA as per revised rate of 21% of Rs 20,000 = Rs 5,600

Difference in payment after latest DA hike i.e, revised rate of 31% (Rs 6,200-Rs 5,600) = Rs 600 more per month

Yearly Difference in payment after latest DA hike i.e, revised rate of 31% = Rs 7,200

In view of the unprecedented situation which arose due to the COVID-19 pandemic, three additional instalments of Dearness Allowance (DA) to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) to pensioners, which were due from 01.01.2020, 01.07.2020 and 01.01.2021, had been frozen.

The Government has decided to increase the Dearness Allowance to Central Government employees and Dearness Relief to pensioners with effect from 01.07.2021 to 28% representing an increase of 11% over the existing rate of 17% of the Basic Pay/Pension. The increase reflects the additional instalments arising on 01.01.2020, 01.07.2020 and 01.01.2021. The rate of Dearness Allowance/Dearness Relief for the period 01.01.2020 to 30.06.2021 shall remain at 17%.

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Chennai: The Madras High Court on Monday (October 25) reserved judgment on the plea by Tamil superstar C. Joseph Vijay that an adverse observation made by a single judge's bench of the court against him be expunged from records.

Appearing for Vijay, former Tamil Nadu Advocate General, Vijay Narayan argued that the remarks made by the judge in July while dismissing the plea of the actor to exempt payment for his imported Rolls Royce Ghost were unjustified.

Counsel argued that the judge had made "wholly unjustified remarks" against the actor and had even portrayed him, as well as the entire film industry, as "anti-national".

A division bench of Justice Pushpa Sathyanarayana and Justice Mohammed Shaffiq deferred their judgment after hearing the detailed arguments by Narayan.

He also argued that the importers of luxury cars had to pay customs duty to the Centre and after some state governments also commenced demanding entry taxes, many of these importers approached various high courts of the country.

Vijay was one such litigant before the Madras High Court, and when the single judge's bench directed him to pay 20 percent of the tax, he had complied with the interim order and paid the amount.

Counsel noted that after the Supreme Court, in 2017, ruled that state governments were entitled to entry tax, the petitions filed by other importers were dismissed with a directive to pay the full tax, but the single judge's bench came down heavily on the actor.

With the actor primarily criticised by the judge for not disclosing his professional identity, Narayan argued that there was no need to disclose the identity when a person was importing a car and that whether the importer is a doctor, actor, or a lawyer does not matter.

He also said that the single judge had portrayed the entire film industry in a bad light as if it was full of tax-evaders.

He said that the actor had paid the balance 80 percent of the tax amount, which amounts to Rs 32.30 lakh, by demand draft in August 2021.

The bench was informed that the single judge's bench had made similar comments while disposing of a 2015 writ petition filed by superstar Dhanush against the demand of entry tax for a similar Rolls Royce Ghost imported by him in 2015.

Narayan said, "I don't think that it is for the courts to decide whether a rich person should buy a car or a bungalow. There are people who buy aircraft. Therefore this kind of philosophy is not for the court to make."

As Justice Satyanarayana asked counsel whether efforts were taken to request the single judge to expunge remarks, the counsel replied in the negative. He also cited Supreme Court remarks against such unwarranted comments by the courts against litigants.
New Delhi: WhatsApp breaches are plastered throughout the internet in bold, fear-inducing headlines for everyone to see. Due to the nature of their sensitive and private discussions, a series of WhatsApp leaks have made users feel threatened, and many are questioning how reliable WhatsApp's claim of end-to-end encryption is.

The most important message for WhatsApp users is that the app's security is quite high. WhatsApp has stated that no third parties will be able to view anyone's WhatsApp chats, photographs, or videos. Facebook does not have access to the information, and WhatsApp does not have access to it either. The talks can only be read by the sender and receiver of WhatsApp. No one can claim that they do not have access to this encryption because it is enabled by default.

WhatsApp leaks will continue to occur. If you're not careful about what you do on WhatsApp or how you handle your phone, you, too, could be in danger. You could be in contact with criminals, transmitting or receiving restricted content, or doing something else that is considered illegal. As a result, if someone you've been speaking with on WhatsApp gets apprehended by authorities, suspicion will fall on you by association. So, no, it won't keep you safe.

In the end, all of your information is stored on your phone or on a cloud drive. When there is a suspicion of wrongdoing or criminal conduct, the same information can be made available to government authorities upon request.

Then there are WhatsApp leaks of a different kind. These occur when someone gains access to another person's phone and photographs or screenshots their WhatsApp conversations. This is a violation that occurs beyond the realm in which WhatsApp operates and over which it has no authority. Anyone who steals or loses your smartphone while you are not looking can snap screenshots of your private data, images, and videos, and then "leak" the material to others.

There's another way for WhatsApp leaks to occur. WhatsApp users frequently download apps that turn out to contain malware. They are mostly designed to steal money, but they can also take data and communications. When a WhatsApp user downloads such an app, he or she is putting his or her privacy at risk. Even safe platforms like Google Play Store, Apple App Store, and others can be used to download malware. These malicious programmes are disguised as legitimate apps. The most recent is on the well-known Squid Game. In fact, Google just removed 150 apps from its Play Store.

WhatsApp has been accused of gathering information that its parent firm, Facebook, intends to exploit for commercial purposes. This can take the form of usernames, phone numbers, and location to comprehend the user's footprints and provide her or him targeted adverts.

Your safety and security are ultimately in your control. You should be cautious about what you discuss with your friends, family, and coworkers. Your conversations are eventually broadcast to a wide number of individuals, including complete strangers. If the chats contain anything inappropriate, they can be used against you. So, for starters, don't do the following five things on WhatsApp:

1. Don't talk on WhatsApp about anything that could be considered criminal, even if it's just on the edge of being such - drugs, porn, abuse, and so on.

2. On WhatsApp, do not post or discuss any compromising photos or videos of yourself or others.

3. Never discuss or disclose any financial transactions on WhatsApp.

4. Don't talk about or disclose any events you've been to when you've acted out of character.

5. Always remember that prudence, whether on WhatsApp or in real life, is the better part of valour.

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NEW DELHI: Tuesday's episode of Bigg Boss 15 begins with a discussion on Karwachauth. Jay tells Nishant Bhatt and Karan Kundrra that Afsana is not keeping the fast for Saajz, however, she is ready to protray that she has been observing a fast for her fiance.

Karan and Tejasswi Prakash discuss his type of girl. They discuss how people have been thinking that they have a crush on each other. Tejasswi tells him, "You need me and I know you are using me for your sanity."

Rajiv tells Miesha that Ieshaan is not the guy she thinks he is on the show. Ieshaan objects and says he doesn't care what his mother and sister think about him right now. Rajiv tells him that he is no longer his bestie and family from now. Karan and Simba overhear their conversation. Karan, Umar and Jay join them. Simba asks Vishal if he wants to provoke him now, to which he says, they will do it at the right time. Simba and Vishal also discuss that they feel he will not last long on the show, as he has been back-biting about everyone in the house.

Ieshaan discusses with Rajiv that he has been finding his behaviour absurd. He says everyone has been teasing Miesha about Rajiv being 'second wife' of him. Rajiv rubbishes it and says it must be a joke. Ieshaan however says his character has been questioned and he doesn't care of Bigg Boss nominates him and send him home.

Bigg Boss announces captaincy task. The house is divided into two teams. It is a torture task as Team B people will be sitting in alphabets and they have to remove them. Karan and Shamita are sanchalaks.

The captaincy task begins. Nishant throws stuff from the trash can near Afsana. She says I will feed you guys shit when her turn comes. Nishant keeps on trolling Afsana. Miesha does waxing on Ieshaan's leg to make him get up. She puts ice cubes in his underwear. Simba douses Umar with powder. Miesha puts lipstick on Umar. Pratik puts roasted peppers before Ieshaan.

Miesha waxes Umar's underarms. Simba advises Nishant to use roasted green chilli. Shamita and Tejasswi get into a fight after sanchalak disqualifies Simba from the task. Shamita reasons it saying two different people were targeting two people at the same time.

Ieshaan tells Miesha not to use lipstick on him. Tejasswi decides to bribe Afsana with captaincy. Afsana asks her team members if she would be made the captain if their team won the task.

Nishant makes a captaincy offer to Vishal. He says I am not bothered if people are against me. Miesha tells Pratik to stay out of her and Ieshaan relationship.

Simba puts a lot of powder on Afsana. Afsana hits back and throw powder at them. Teja starts coughing after some powder goes inside her mouth. She demands medical attention. Karan carries her inside. Inside the house, Teja tells Karan she is fine and had been acting. They plan that they should call Umar as he is a doctor by profession. Rajiv goes to Umar and asks him to come out and help Tejasswi. However, Afsana and everyone warn him that its fake.

Outside they discuss that Teja faked it just to get Umar out. They say it was not right. Jay says I am feeling bad for Umar. Rajiv tells Shamita that Teja was only acting and she was not choking.

Akasa teases Tejasswi about Karan. She says she had been noticing expressions on her face for last few days. Teja asks her about her and Pratik. Akasa says he finds him very sweet and caring. Teja says she and Karan are friends in the house and says that there is no scope for her and KK. Teja teases Akasa and tells Pratik that she has a crush on him. Pratik gives a peck to her.

Ieshaan and Rajiv talk about the latter's equation with Miesha. Rajiv asks him about 'things he did outside the house'. Ieshaan says that he wants to discuss a few things with Miesha. He then says 'Watt lag jayegi'.

Afsana teases Rajiv about his weight and tells him that he won't even be able to fit inside. Shamita calls her out for body-shaming. Rajiv hits out at her saying that she won't be able to take it if he does the same to her. Rajiv cries for being fat and says he is called fat. He says he has a thyroid problem. Afsana comes out and apologises. She kisses him. Teja too says sorry to Karan and says she was wrong in faking about getting choked due to powder thrown at her by Afsana.
Agra: Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) leader Rakesh Tikait has announced that thousands of farmers agitating against Centres three farm laws will celebrate Diwali at the protest sites in Delhi.

The BKU leader alleged that the Centre is not listening to their demand to repeal the three agriculture laws even after several months of their protests.

Tikait also warned that the farmers' ongoing agitation against the farm laws will continue. He, however, said that they are not creating any obstacles in the way of the government.

Attacking the Centre, Tikait said, Farmers are ready to find a way out through talks, but the government is unwilling and is, in fact, the one putting up roadblocks.

The BKU leader further alleged that the farmers growing potato and bajra are not getting minimum support price, due to which the farming community is very upset.

Tikait made these demands after visiting the family of Arun Narwar who was allegedly killed in police custody in Agra in Uttar Pradesh and demanded a compensation of Rs 40 lakh and a government job to his kin.

Speaking to reporters after meeting Narwar's family members, Tikait said, "The state government is discriminating while giving compensation. It has given compensation of Rs 40-45 lakh in Lakhimpur Kheri and Kanpur, while in Agra the government has given a compensation of Rs 10 lakh."

"The state government should give compensation of Rs 40 lakh to the family of Arun as well. The government should not have discriminated," he said.

He also demanded a government job for a member of Narwar's family and a judicial probe into his death. Narwar was accused of stealing Rs 25 lakh from the Jagdishpura police station and died in police custody after his health deteriorated during interrogation on October 19, officials had said.

Targeting the BJP government over farm laws, Tikait said, "I will urge farmers not to vote for BJP in the upcoming assembly election. The Samyukt Kisan Morcha will oppose the BJP in state assembly elections."

"We will not field our candidates nor support any political party in the assembly election," he added.

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KHARTOUM: Sudan`s military seized power from a transitional government on Monday and a health ministry official said seven people were killed by gunfire and 140 injured in clashes between soldiers and street protesters.

The leader of the takeover, General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, dissolved the military-civilian Sovereign Council that had been established to guide the country to democracy following the overthrow of long-ruling autocrat Omar al-Bashir in a popular uprising two years ago.

Burhan announced a state of emergency, saying the armed forces needed to protect safety and security. He promised to hold elections in July 2023 and hand over to an elected civilian government then.

"What the country is going through now is a real threat and danger to the dreams of the youth and the hopes of the nation," he said.

The Sudan information ministry, which is still loyal to ousted Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok, said on its Facebook page that the transitional constitution gives only the prime minister the right to declare a state of emergency and that the military`s actions are a crime. Hamdok is still the legitimate transitional authority, it said.

The U.N. Security Council was likely to discuss Sudan behind closed doors on Tuesday, diplomats said.

White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said: "We reject the actions by the military and call for the immediate release of the prime minister and others who have been placed under house arrest."

Youths opposed to the coup barricaded streets and clashed with troops. The main opposition coalition, Forces of Freedom and Change, which pushed for Bashir`s removal and negotiated the military-civilian council, said on Twitter it was calling for peaceful actions in the streets to overthrow the military takeover, including demonstrations, the blocking of streets and civil disobedience.

Hamdok, an economist and former senior U.N. official, was detained and taken to an undisclosed location after refusing to issue a statement in support of the takeover, the information ministry said.

The ministry urged resistance and said tens of thousands of people opposed to the takeover had taken to the streets and had faced gunfire near the military headquarters in Khartoum. Central bank employees announced a strike to reject the coup, the ministry said.

Troops had arrested civilian members of the Sovereign Council and government figures, the ministry said. Also detained was the news director of state TV, his family said.

The U.S. State Department said Washington had nothing to share on Hamdok`s whereabouts and condition. A department spokesman said it was pausing $700 million in economic support for Sudan.

In Khartoum`s twin city Omdurman, protesters barricaded streets and chanted in support of the civilian rule.

"Burhan cannot deceive us. This is a military coup," said a young man who gave his name as Saleh.

`RAISE OUR VOICES`

Sudan has been ruled for most of its post-colonial history by military leaders who seized power in coups. It had become a pariah to the West and was on a U.S. terrorism list under Bashir, who hosted Osama bin Laden in the 1990s and is wanted by the International Criminal Court in the Hague for war crimes.

The country had been on edge since last month when a failed coup plot, blamed on Bashir supporters, unleashed recriminations between the military and civilians.

In recent weeks a coalition of rebel groups and political parties aligned themselves with the military and called on it to dissolve the civilian government, while Cabinet ministers took part in protests against the prospect of military rule.

Sudan is also in an economic crisis. Helped by foreign aid, civilian officials have claimed credit for some tentative signs of stabilisation after a sharp devaluation of the currency and the lifting of fuel subsidies.

Washington had tried to avert the collapse of the power-sharing agreement by sending a special envoy, Jeffrey Feltman. The director of Hamdok`s office, Adam Hereika, told Reuters the military had mounted the takeover despite "positive movements" towards an agreement after meetings with Feltman in recent days.

The military had been meant to pass on the leadership of the Sovereign Council to a civilian figure in the coming months. But transitional authorities had struggled to move forward on issues including whether to hand Bashir over to The Hague.

Burhan said it was incumbent on the armed forces to act to halt "incitement to chaos and violence".

The United Nations, Arab League and African Union all expressed concern. Political leaders should be released and human rights respected, AU Commission Chair Moussa Faki Mahamat said in a statement.

Britain called the coup an unacceptable betrayal of the Sudanese people. France called for the immediate release of Hamdok and other civilian leaders. Egypt called on all parties to exercise self-restraint.

The Sudanese Professionals Association, an activist coalition in the uprising against Bashir, called for a strike.

Two main political parties, the Umma and the Sudanese Congress, condemned what they called a coup and campaign of arrests.

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